It is with infinite sadness that your North American Co-Editor must report the passing of Kathryn Crosby, a remarkable woman that was among the people who best knew Bing and that, among many other distinctions that she received in her lifetime, was the ICC’s Honorary President for many years. Our club will never be the same without her, and we would like to extend our condolences to the entire Crosby family, along with our firm purpose to always honor her memory. Requiescat in pace.

    Though this time of year is always a happy season for Crosby fans, since the Yuletide brings us the strains of Christmas music and Bing’s timeless seasonal recordings are heard everywhere and even re-enter the charts, this December will be a little gloomier and a bit more nostalgic for all members. We would like, however, to turn this Winter 2024 issue into a sort of celebration of Kathryn’s life, and for that reason, in the following pages readers will find a selection of articles that showcase her many talents, her character, and the relevant role she played in Bing’s life. Therefore, we are very grateful to those who have contributed pieces about Kathryn for sharing their memories of her for the benefit of those who, like your Co-Editor, never had the pleasure to meet her in person. For that very reason, as well as for the rest of excellent contributions and regular sections, this is an extremely special issue of the magazine that we are sure members will enjoy and cherish.

Anton Garcia-Fernandez - American Co-Editor

    This 56-page glossy magazine continues to be essential reading for the serious Crosby supporter and order your copy of the magazine now by contacting Perry Huntoon (phone: (630) 357-5374).

    To see details of earlier issues, click here.

CONTENTS OF BING #198

Editorial 

Secretary / Treasurer’s Report
Kathryn Crosby 1933-2024

Greg Van Beek Remembers Mrs. Crosby

Kathryn Crosby - A Remembrance

The Keeper of the Flame: An Eyewitness Account

Gord Atkinson: Memories of a Dear Friend

Diane Sherry

Swinging On a Star

Gary Giddins honored

Bing Crosby House

The Christmas Music of Bing Crosby

A Christmas Sing with Bing

ICC Online meetings

KMH Crypt Cracked

High Tor

Home on the Range
Trading Post  

Don’t Fence Me In

1968 Was a Very Good Year

Celluloid Crosby

One Sweet Letter from You
Ken Crossland’s Crosbyana
A Note from Australia
Bing on the Box
Once in a While
The Way We Were
Keeping Track