I had to buy a bike bell yesterday. I used to think bike bells were really dorky but I've now decided that they are kind of fun, not to mention handy. From where I am staying right now it is a 10 minute bike ride to the university on a well travelled path. I was getting frustrated by having to call out to pedestrians when I needed to pass them and not having them hear me, so I stopped at a bike shop along the route and invested my five dollars. A worthy investment as I was told that if they catch you without a "noise maker" (the guy at the bike shop informed me that this could be anything from an official bike bell to jingle bells to towing empty beer cans) the city can fine you $50! So now I make my commute with my happy little bell and find it somewhat cheery to ring it at people.
Keep your fingers crossed for me as I have my first try out for the novice rowing team this evening. Tryouts run for 4 days and they announce the team at the end of next week.