I don't know how much feedback the editorial staff gets from year to year, or month to month, but I agree, and I hope they get some satisfaction when they read your comments, and hopefully more to follow. I have only ever subscribed to two magazines in my life, now in my 60th year. They are Sky and Telescope, which I ceased years ago, and now Classic Trains. I would....should I say it...........aww, what the heck....I would pay a lot more for those four issues each year if I could be sure the same orientation, philosophy, balance, and quality were to persist until I gasp my last. I also purchase every special edition, and eagerly await the fast locomotives special about to be sent off to customers.
I really like the high overhead shots taken from aircraft, shots inside busy commuter centers and stations, technical information, and anecdotal accounts of life 'back then'.
Keep it coming, Gentlemen.
May I suggest a special edition heavy into steam mechanics, some stories about line-side fixes that helped them to get to the next service facility? What seemed to break or require an inordinate amount of attention at stops, and why? Even a comparative in-depth look at a modern steam programme would be great where the differences in what was possible, the limitations, expectations, between now and then.
Best wishes. And thanks ever so much. 
Crandell