My Vagabond Ways

I finally got tired of not being rescued .. so I decided to take a little rail trip this weekend to explore the world outside of Lodi.  Unfortunately, I wasn't able to secure LUXURY transportation, but it beats sitting in a dark box inside of an Alarm Company's warehouse.

Despite the general discomfort of the transportation, I DID still feel at home riding on this railcar.  It had a tank full of gas right next to where I sat, which was kind of like sitting next to the gluten-less Bob Gross during our Wednesday morning meetings.

As I hopped on the railcar, I looked across the yard adjacent to the rail lines and noticed Meehleis Modular Buildings just across the street.  I tried ringing real loud to see if Past President Mike would wave back, but I didn't see him ... but then again, no one has in almost 18 months.  Or maybe he did see me and just didn't want to wave.  Either way, he can kiss my brass.

Fortunately I snatched a Blackberry from the guy riding the rails with me (he fell asleep), which gave me access to the internet.  So as long as this battery holds out, I should be able to stay in touch.

I'll write again, or call someone, if I need any money!  See you all down the tracks!

Yours in Rotary,
Dingy Da Bell

Living La Vida Vino

So as the official bell of a Rotary Club in Lodi, California - best known for its wine grapes and wineries, and the Creedence song "Stuck In Lodi" - I feel obligated to get out from time to time and sample some of the local Vino.

So on Sunday November 14th I found myself the feature attraction in the tasting room at Macchia Winery.  What a joy to spend the day surrounded by tall, slender, alcohol filled ... um ... bottles (not to mention the gals working the tasting room).  If you look closely, you'll know why I insisted on planting my brass on the tasting room bar.

I was fortunate to spend the day in the company of great wine, beautiful women, drunken patrons, and a band that performed some of the best classic rock I have heard in a long time.  Journey, Kansas, The Cars, The Eagles and much more.  I felt like I was back in the 70's when part of me was working as a "door knocker".

I want you all to know that I have CONSIDERED returning to the club many times over the past months, but then I heard the horror stories of President Steve using an airhorn to begin and end meetings and - to be quite honest - I would feel bad coming back right now because at least NOW Bob Gross knows when the meetings are starting (i.e. time for a nap) and ending (i.e. time to wake up).

I hope all of you have fun cleaning the highway.  If you find a partially filled bottle of Brasso by any chance, please save it for me.  I'm sure I'll need a good buffing once I return.

Yours in Rotary,
Dingy Da Bell