The Interbelt Lounge, the former Ritz Theater, was the place to be for almost 200 guests, August 18, 2007, for Cascade Locks Park Associations fourth annual Hot Jazz on Howard Street.

The place never looked better, thanks to owner Vern Baker and manager Jeff Carpenter, with its new carpet, paint and curtains. The tables, bedecked with Chris Freitag’s white lily and candle arrangements, set the mood for an evening of great music starting with the mellow tones of Tim Mays’ piano and voice.

The talents of Scott and Valerie Stutler created displays with details from Chuck Ayers’ vibrantly colored invitation, which was seen that evening in the form of posters and programs.

The almost three-octave voice of the versatile Barbara Barrett sang beautifully with The Legends of Howard Street Jimmy Noel, Jesse Dandy, and Jim Roller.

A tribute was made to saxophone legend Pee Wee Carter who died this January at 97 years of age, who just a few years ago was on stage playing with his fellow Legends.

Another tribute was paid to the beautiful and talented Dolores Parker Morgan, who sang with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, and was there that evening to enjoy the event.

The musical part of the night ended with the immensely talented, young jazz guitarist, Dan Wilson, with Clifford Barnes on keyboard, and Paul Samuels on drums. We were all delighted when VIP Host Jack Schantz, head of the University of Akron’s Jazz Department, surprised us by belting it out with his horn in several of Wilson’s pieces.

The whole evening was kept flowing smoothly by radio and television personality, Cherie McClain. She encouraged all to bid on the seven silent auction dinner items, and kept the bids climbing for the oral auction of the fabulous jazz brunch for two-dozen offered by Fran and Ed Bittle.

“ Belt It Out” raised approximately $18,000 to benefit Cascade Locks Park Association, thanks to all who came, preformed, volunteered, and especially to Roberta Chapman, who orchestrated the whole event. Don Schmid, who drove in from Brooklyn, NY, for the evening said, “ It was a comfortable evening of conversation and good music.” Yes, there is nothing like old friends, close family and really good music!