I got a chance to spend a magical 48 minutes this evening with a WG member who died a few weeks ago. It wasn't a supernatural experience, but it was sublime!

Himself was no less a man than singer, musician writer and storyteller Jim Hawkins. Jim was the featured guest at TheWildGeese.irish's Virtual Síbín on Jan. 27, 2014, which occasioned the recording linked here.

The Sibin's host, Ryan O'Rourke, and I quickly settled into the pleasurable task of exploring Jim's own story. Soon his muse was on full display as he regaled us with several tales drawn from his childhood in County Westmeath, along with his huge passion for the presenting the Irish experience. There is much to be said and much written about Jim, but suffice it to say his 48-minute appearance speaks volumes.

Photo below: The many faces of storyteller and WG member Jim Hawkins on display. WG Photo

On a personal note, I met Jim in 1979 when I returned to New York City and became a member of the Irish Arts Center there in Hell's Kitchen. Jim was already a member. He was a gracious, exceedingly friendly presence at the Center, with his trace of an Irish accent suggesting his childhood in Ireland. Jim grew up in County Westmeath, but was born in Astoria, Queens.

Jim Hawkins died a few weeks ago, age 80, but fortunately a wide array of recordings and tributes will help insure that his ready laughter and bon homie will always be available to us.

A memorial service for Jim is scheduled for Saturday, 2 p.m., at South Nassau Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 228 South Ocean Avenue, Freeport, N.Y. Hope to see some of you there! There's likely to be much laughter as well as tears, recalling Jim's famous sense of humor.

So dear friend, as gaeilge . . .  Ní hé sin deireadh an scéil! -- Ger Regan