THE RHYTHM SHIP (now with instruments) then took the stage and lit up the night with a very noteworthy performance. The combination of lights and sounds produced by the band looked better than a Vegas night club. Both of these bands have played the Hemp Shows at Harry's for years and they just keep getting better!

This years attendance was up around 2,000 Hempsters, and marijuana plants were displayed openly by campsites and up on the stage.

A note on this show, Maine has MEDICAL MARIJUANA LAWS in place and the owner of the property is a LEGAL MEDICAL PATIENT! He allows his plants to be displayed on the Vocals stage as the bands play behind them. I had a chance to party with and interview VINCE WELNECK from THE TUBES/GRATEFUL DEAD there before he passed away. It is a great place to party. Check it out! For the VINCE WELNECK interview and stories about this venue go to HIGHTIMES.COM and put CAPTAIN JOINT into their search, the stories come up. Post a comment so I know you were there.

Here are some photos of the BIG BUD CONTEST, Enjoy, and keep warm, another FESTIVAL SEASON is ON THE WAY!