I just received this email from the director of the Northwest Folklife Festival, which has been held annually in Seattle for over 30 years.

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"Remembering Jim Hinde

We were saddened to hear that Jim Hinde passed away in his sleep on June 8th, 2008. Jim was a tireless advocate and organizer within the tight-knit community of Seattle street musicians and folksingers. He was a founding member of the Pike Place Performers' Guild and performed frequently throughout the Pacific Northwest at coffeehouses, rallies, Farmer's Markets, and festivals.

Jim Hinde demonstrated his commitment to Northwest Folklife in numerous ways, and we are so fortunate to have known him and to have worked with him for many years. He was a talented community coordinator who each year provided a stellar lineup of street performers for the annual Pike Place Buskers' Showcase at the Northwest Folklife Festival. Jim volunteered as a performer for 20 years, and his talent as a songwriter and performer enriched our programming immeasurably. As one of our most experienced and professional MCs, Jim took on the responsibility of educating new volunteers on the ins and outs of that job. Jim's quick wit and hearty laugh will truly be missed by everyone at Northwest Folklife.

Jim's good works remain. You can listen to Jim perform at the 2008 Festival here."
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I had met Jim and been an assistant stage manager for him when he emceed the Fisher Pavilion (bluegrass) stage at Folklife, and I remember his music and his spirit well. The Seattle music community has lost a strong voice.

Genie