How Natalie Heins celebrated Bing’s Birthday
My
first visit to Washington will likely be my most memorable visit to the state.
Ever since junior high school, when my music teacher entertained us during her
grading periods with movies of her favorite star, Bing Crosby, I have been
fascinated by him. I started my Bing collection in high school and craved more
of his music, sheet music, pictures, movie posters, etc. Antique shops became
one of my favorite places to shop since they offered a glimpse at a fresh Bing
collectible.
Whenever
the time arose to discuss family vacation plans, I always recommended
Washington and California so I could visit some of the places Bing knew. Not
until this May did my dream to visit the world’s greatest Bing Crosby collection
come true, and my mother chose to share the excitement with me. Not
only did I have the opportunity to see Bing’s academy award and endless
collectibles, but I also had the opportunity to meet Mrs. Crosby, other Bing
fans, and personal friends of Bing’s. I eagerly listened to stories about Bing
and grew to know him better through the memories of those who had worked beside
him and befriended him.
Each
morning I smiled as I stepped out onto the Gonzaga campus where Bing’s
captivating voice flowed from the outdoor intercoms, captivating the fans
within earshot. Friday, the first day of the Crosby celebration, included a
rededication of his statue. On the terrace next to a building Bing funded for
the college, stands a handsome resemblance of Bing with his pipe and golf
clubs. Following the rededication was a reception for us Bing fans and members
of the Crosby family. This room, like so many at the college, was filled with
memorabilia to explore while mingling with and meeting new friends.
Saturday
was a day filled with excitement and tough choices. A great variety of events
were scheduled for the day, so the most difficult activity was deciding what to
attend. After spying Bing records for sale and buying as many as I could fit on
the plane, I saw a very touching and well done documentary of Bing, narrated by
Rich Little. I don’t know about the others in this full house, but I had to
wipe away several tears. Next my mother and I enjoyed a performance by a Bing
impersonator [Bob Pasch], singing some of Bing’s most famous songs. Then I had
the honor of meeting Mrs. Crosby, shaking her hand, and having a quick chat as
she autographed my book. Next on our list was returning to the theater to hear
Bing’s nephew Howard sing Bing tunes with his talented band. My mother and I
ended our full day at the celebrity discussion panel — my favorite part. This
was amazing! I soaked up every word as I traveled back in time, listening to
Bing tales as his friends told story after story. We laughed and cried during
this time of treasure. Speakers included Gord Atkinson, Rich Little, Gary
Giddins, Buddy Bregman, Will Friedwald, and Ken Barnes, MC’d by Lorne Harasen.
As it turns out, my mother and I had just met Lorne and his wife in our dorm
room the night before, so it was all the more meaningful to see him as the MC.
We
finished out the day by changing into our evening attire as we prepared for the
White Christmas banquet. The set up was straight out of the movie, with the
snowy mountain backdrop, round tables, snow flakes hanging from the ceiling,
etc. There was even an ice sculpture signifying the 100th birthday
cele-bration. The dinner was lovely, and I met several new friends. Rich Little
offered a hilarious performance that had my stomach aching from too much
laughter (if there is such a thing). Frank Sinatra Jr. shared memories of his
experiences with Bing. An award was presented to Mrs. Crosby and Howard Crosby
sang with his band to close the celebration.
I
especially enjoyed dining with the fans at my table and learning that a couple
of them had their own Bing stories to share. I particularly cherished Lorne
Harasen’s company again and John Jensen’s. Both were radio men and had
interviewed Bing during their time on radio. They even offered to send me some
of their interviews and other favorites. Just as they had promised, I soon had
two astounding packages at my door and a wealth of new Bing insights. I could
now hear personal interviews, a spectacular Command Performance, and songs I
had yet to hear. I even received a few video clips!
Not
only has the experience celebrating Bing’s 100th been fun and exciting, but it
has rekindled my love for Bing and taught me so much more about him, his music,
and his time. Now I find myself thirsting even more for him and frequently choosing
his music over my other favorites. What a blessing this weekend has been and
the many friendships I gained from it.
