Here is a closer look at the leaves

Jack-in-the-dandelion-stalk?? Looks like a huge dandelion.

Would be funny, the stem is over an inch thick! Here's a closer look at the buds/flowers? on and around the top.

Lactuca, wild lettuce of some sort?

Doesn't seem to match Google images for Lactuca, I'm stumped on this one!

Perhaps Lactuca canadensis? This page also covers Lactuca biennis and Lactuca serriola, with copious details and maps for each species:
http://www.florafinder.com/Species/Lactuca_canadensis.php

If your blooms, pay attention to the flower color, as that varies among the wild lettuces.

[Mind you, I won't swear it isn't some other species entirely!]

I like Jack in the dandelion stalk.
Yea, it's that.
LOL

Lactuca canadensis

I think that's it! Looks like the plants shown on this person's website: http://meltonwiggins.com/lettucewild.html

Thanks for the help :)

if you let it flower and go to seed... you will be enjoying many more next year ...

ken