I must commend the booking agent for the festival. It was an outstanding
lineup. I attended 3 years ago and this years lineup was superior. In fact,
of all the festivals I have looked at attending this year, this was the best.
As far as this being a FOLK festival in honor of Kate I have several comments
regarding this. Most festivals are having a very hard time in this economy
surviving. It is important that a great venue like this continue to thrive. A
poorly attended festival with a narrow focus will not survive. It is important
for the promotor, the artist, the attendee and any non-profit beneficiary to
come away from the festival feeling they have received something of value
whether that is money, good music or good vibes. If any of these parties do not
"profit" in some way the festival will not continue. FOLK is a BIG umbrella !

I do have several other comments.

1) The order of Dave Alvin/Patty Griffin was perfect. Dave rocked but Patty was
the perfect closer for Saturday night with the moon and stars and her brilliant
songs.

2) Place SIGNAGE around the SMOKING tree that says something to the effect of
"NO YAPPING (talking) while the performers are on stage". I realize in the
herbal state of mind that some people run on at the mouth while the performers
are doing their thing but all of us (I hope) that have made our way to the Main
stage have come to HEAR the music not to hear other peoples ramblings.

3) The sound system could be beefed up. I found the solo performers could only
be heard when you are at the front by the stage. I am speaking of RT, Buddy,
Patty, etc. The rockers, Dave, Ruthie and Preservation sounded great from the
back of the bowl.

4) The food "court" had was very inferior to other festivals I have attended.
I don't expect Kate fest would have the great food that Jazzfest has but I would
expect them to have more choices then were there. The ice cream vendor (could
have been a gold mine) had no choices. There really was no GOOD CHOCOLATE to be
had anywhere. What happened to the Turkey booth ? Where were the great
sandwich vendors ?

I may have more comments as I contemplate but that is it for now.
Hopefully the producer and organizers made some bucks. I would sure hate to see
this festival become a fond memory.