This year, professional and familial responsibilities conspired to limit my RIJF attendance, but I still can't complain. I saw a half-dozen excellent shows and only one which could be considered disappointing (and that I've decided to blame on the weather).

Here, in no particular order, are my vague and random thoughts:

Several shows stood out.

Charlie Hunter, BraamdeJoodeVatcher, Papa Grows Funk, e.s.t.

No regrets on my decision to bypass the Eastman shows.

As great as some of those shows undoubtedly were, I would have been sorely disappointed if I had paid extra to sit in the Eastman only to miss out on any of the shows cited above.

We could use one more 8:30 venue.

If you either aren't interested enough or unable to see the show in the Big Tent at 8:30, it's a long wait from the time the 6:00 show ends and the 10:00 show begins. The outdoor shows help, but one more venue would be nice.

Protect the Gibbs St. stage a little better from the blaring of the East Ave. stage

The free outdoor stages are awesome, but the musicians need to be able to hear themselves play.

Great idea to keep the Gibbs St. stage open through the week.

This provides a much needed focal point for the festival and encourages people to stay downtown between shows.

Get the Montage dinner-reservation policy under control.

I had no problem at the two shows I saw there, but I know at least one person for whom the Montage venue was a hassle.

Suggestions for new acts:

Galactic (or at least the drummer, Stanton Moore), Matthew Shipp, a DJ or two (Amon Tobin, DJ Spooky, DJ Logic, Meat Beat Manifesto), Miroslav Vitous.

Give priority seating based on the number of previous-year jazz passes are hanging from one's lanyard.

Of course, this would leave recent converts out in the cold, but those of us who have a history with the festival would be rewarded for our support...OK, so I'm not serious...honest.

I need to consider taking vacation from work next year.

It would be easier to stay out late if I didn't have to worry about that 5AM alarm clock...

Recruit more festival-goers

Ted? Art?

Possible podcast next year with Seth and Greg?

As long as podcasts have not become passé by then.

Gotta get out more between now and next June.

There's no shortage of opportunity--just keep an eye on jazz@rochester is all.

Thanks John Nugent and Marc Iacona for a wonderful festival.