I like to head each front page with a quote from one of the many numbers Bing has sung. This time, I found a seasonal homily that may get me off the hook for my apparent tardiness. Thanks, cool guy on the icy pedestal; I owe you.
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Seven months ago, I began a journey that has finally led to this issue of our newsletter. It started with the discovery that most of my digital pictures of the Gonzaga weekend were not useable. I own a cheap camera and was not familiar enough with its use. Fortunately, my calls for help were answered generously by Bingfans everywhere. My sincere thanks go (in alphabetical order) to Milton Cummings, Natalie Heins, C. and J. Kaminski, Priscilla Koernig, Malcolm Macfarlane, Ben Weaver, and Henry Zecher. Next, I found that my computer software could not handle some of those files. I found a more modern replacement for it. Then I bought a multi-purpose printer so I could copy, scan, and print with good color quality. It still requires much attention; etc., etc.
Meanwhile, I undertook an ambitious Crosby project in Shelton, WA, my county seat. That gave me and the new equipment a good practice workout. More on this project in the next edition of Bingfans.
I had asked several Bingfans to put their Spokane impressions and experiences on paper, for all our benefit; and most came through with flying colors. Each in his or her own style and individual approach shares Bing's birthday celebration with us here. A round of applause is due Natalie (a true fan), Henry (a professional writer), Stanley Shipp (reporting concisely), Milton (on a sentimental journey), and Jeanne Kaminski (enthusiastic and kind). I added my 2 cents worth to this great mix. -- Reports by Bingfans Priscilla K. (Bing's #1) and Pete C. appeared in the late BINGANG and BING magazines, respectively.
If you were unable to attend the BCCC 2003, I recommend these text and picture pages as the next best thing. Nothing can really give you the full experience, as "you had to be there", to quote Fr. Mulcahy of M*A*S*H. -- And if you were lucky enough to have been in Spokane, these pages may bring back the event of a lifetime, enhanced by the shared memories of your peers.
In this 101st Year of Bing, begun on May 3, I have met several people who showed an interest in what we Bingfans are about. If they keep in touch, that will more than make up for the loss of BF Stephen Whitener, whom the USPS and I cannot find anywhere.-- Please meet…
Patti Dey of Staten Island, NY; Mickey & Dolores Malone of San Mateo, CA;
Paul Ewell of Seattle, WA; Martin J. Pujolar of Spokane, WA,
Martha J. Koehler of Greensburg, PA; Stephen Wieber of Greenacres, WA.
I send you this copy with our WELCOME.
In the next issue, somewhere around Bing's 101st birthday, I'll be happy to publish your comments, etc., on this edition; your and my action reports from the Bing front; thoughts on collecting Bing; and such other topics as you want to share. – If you enjoy this issue of Bingfans, keep it coming by your active participation.
Publishing this modest newsletter costs money for supplies, printing, and postage; even without counting the necessary, small investments mentioned above. My time is gratis, dedicated to Bing and you, his loyal fans. -- Leading up to the BCCC, I made do with two checks from 24 people. I would like to continue the quality of this memorial edition; but my budget does not allow that without a modest boost from those of you who may be able to spare a few bucks. -- The original Bingfans can still get by with printable contributions in lieu of money; but I would welcome a few dollars, too. -- In this awkward situation, I have come up with the "small print" below.
Keep in touch! DBP------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Bingfans" is a newsletter for fans of Bing Crosby who have shown an active interest in promoting his legacy. It is privately published by Dieter Pressler, and terms are subject to change as announced therein. "Bingfans" is issued without a fixed schedule at least once a year, more often when warranted, to members of the former Club Crosby on the basis of their voluntary contributions, such as letters, articles, or financial support. – Other Crosby fans and organizations are invited to join us by submitting each year, before May 3rd, at least one printable item of interest, plus US$5. – All subscriptions lapse automatically after one year of inactivity.