Pete is still with us. He is not in charge but his opinions are definitely heard. As he said when we spoke, his memory is not what it was. He is physically in reasonable shape and he is semiretired from active performing. When he is on stage, he makes it a point to have backup with him. He spent time on stage with many of the 'pop folk' performers during the festival.

To say that Pete would dissaprove of the festival, as festival, is to do him a disservice. His musical interests are much more catholic than most people give him credit for. If you go to his published works, you will find that his material is often based in classical or religious music. He has expressed interest in rap and hip-hop.

In comment on the other issue raised, Clearwater is clearly taking a different musical direction than it used to. This is partly a function of staff interest and board involvement and partly a function of issues discussed above. If you take an education sail on the boat, you will hear the Clearwater you remember. As I indicated above, it's there, you just have to look for it.