SINCE 1907

That's right. That's when The Raccoon Lodge was formed. The Honeymooners tv show of the'50's gave it the most publicity when Ralph and Ed would attend meeting and functions.

"Fingers to fingers

Thumb to thumb

Watch out stomach

Here it comes."

That was their official little ditty when hoisting a beverage. Whether a theme song, a jingle, a logo, a secret handshake, or a password, club members like to have an exclusive motto or catch phrase that's uniquely their own.

The last club I belonged to was Starfire Golf Club. For that privilege I received one of those metal bag tags with Starfire Member emblazoned on it. It clinks and makes noise when I lift my clubs. Of course, it's not the only course represented on my bag.

There's one from the TPC, Estrella Golf Club, White Witch, Eagle Mountain, Troon North, et. al. With a few paper ones tied on with a string grommet from ASU's course and TPC Champions Course. Status symbols? I suppose.

All the cheap courses I play mostly in the Winter don't even offer the paper ones. Otherwise, I'd display them, too.

Once we were paired with a couple who recognized my home course tag, Green Hills. They were from a small town twenty miles away. We played golf several times over the years with them. Maybe conversation would have revealed our proximity and even shared friends from back in SoIl, but the bag tag at least initiated the talk.

If I were a proud Raccoon, I'd display that, too. I guess I just want to belong. To be a member of the club. Even The Dawg Pound.