Putting this book together was a monumental task; it drew heavily upon our collective energy reserves, consumed thousands of personal hours and tested our deepest tenacity — it really was a lot of work. It was not because we are amateurs in this business or unskilled in researching, editing, proofing, typesetting or publishing. And it was not because we didn't have the required talent available. It was because of the great vicissitude of the subject matter and the overwhelming amount of historical and rhetorical material available. Were this book concerned with another topic, this volume may not have happened. But, it did happen — it happened quite smoothly and methodically despite the intensity of our involvement. The single greatest factor in achieving our goal was that it has been a labor-of-love. That was the glue that bound us to the effort. That was the drive that pushed us forward. Truly, the fuel that fired our determination to achieve our goal was Deborah Harry and Blondie — plain and simple. We wanted this book.. . .and we were going to have it! Allan Metz had been collecting Blondie material for many years. His efforts in gathering articles, essays, photographs and historical data would rival the most thorough researcher. With the Blondie reunion tour, albums and appearances having peaked, it became apparent that it was time to publish this book. Allan had already known me as a Blondie archivist and publisher of The Blondie Review, a quarterly fan journal, which is what prompted him to call on me to assist him in assembling this tome. Our meeting, early this year, lasted only a few minutes before I asked him when I should begin. The decision was foregone; for me, this was a given, I knew it had to happen. I am curiously suspicious as to whether Allan had any question or doubt about my dedication and passion of the subject matter. I firmly believe he knew my answer long before our meeting. It was the end of May, 2000 when I scheduled a meeting with my good friend and dedicated Blondie fan Amy Oravec in the Chelsea district of New York City. This was just a few hours before the well-known Deborah Harry book release party given by Cathay Che at Mother Night Club. With other friends and band members showing up it quickly turned from a meeting to a party (quite by accident, one of the best I've ever given). During brief moments of businesslike seriousness, Amy and I decided to produce what's now known as The Blondie Review magazine. By the time Amy finished with my draft of the first issue I was very aware of her proofreading and composition talents. Those drafts then went to my wife, Maryann who's typesetting and formatting expertise led to the premiere issue of the magazine — in less than three months time! After discussing the plans Allan had for his book I knew that I must have the assistance of these two ladies. What a team we were assembling! The rest, as they say, is history. Actually, this whole project has been a synergy of souls. I must thank Amy for her unquestioning dedication, drive and ability. Her guidance and expertise have been invaluable. Without Amy we'd still be sorting out our prepositions and conjunctions. Additionally, I am morally bound to express my appreciation for the understanding and tolerance of my wife Maryann and daughter Stacy. They have seen the tightest and loosest of family relationships. They have worked closely with me, but also lived without me as I dedicated much of our family time to The Blondie Review and then, as though that weren't enough, tackled the duties of this book at the same time. Thanks ladies. Additionally, I offer my most sincere thanks and gratitude to the legion of fans who have shared their knowledge and materials and helped us so much along the way. Many are new acquaintances and some are old and dear friends. They run the spectrum from the casually interested to the sincerely and passionately dedicated. Without the fans, collectors, writers and photographers this book would not exist. Finally, I wish to thank Allan Metz for enlisting me as his editor in this most ambitious and rewarding effort. It otherwise would have been a missed opportunity for me that I would have regretted, forever. Having the chance to help collect and assemble so much material, all in one place, for all the dedicated fans and casual readers alike is a most flattering compliment and satisfying achievement. I appreciate his trust in my advice, decisions and ability. I truly hope you enjoy this product of our passion. Bob Betts |