auto train canceled Monday

[ACY Tom]

Southbound no. 53 is getting ready to leave Lorton now, approx. 6-1/2 hrs. late. I don't know the status of no. 52, departing Sanford.

[ACY Tom]

This is second-hand info & should be taken as just that. One consist suffered a succession of delays due to mechanical problems, flash flood warnings (slow orders), a grade crossing accident, at least one disabled CSX freight train, heat restrictions, T&E crews on the law (recrew), and possibly other problems. There were attempts to make up the time, but it was a "one step forward, two steps back" situation for several days. The other consist was running on time until the evening of May 8, when the other consist (southbound) was seriously delayed due to engine problems. This led to problems in recrewing, heat restrictions, etc. This morning, the two consists met at Florence, SC around 10:00 AM. They would normally meet in the vicinity of Kingstree around 12:00 - 1:00 AM. Normal procedure is to board when the train has been cleaned & prepared for service in the late evening, and let everybody get to sleep. Passengers are usually given an opportunity to have a light evening meal, often in the station. These arrangements can vary depending on the actual times involved, the number of arriving passengers, and the number of departing passengers. Breakfast begins around 6:00 - 7:00 AM depending on timekeeping. A full meal service would be served midday (this is the dinner that would normally be served in the evening, after departure). If the train is late enough that another meal service is needed, it generally in a very limited fare, made from items kept onboard for emergencies.

[blue streak 1]

Had friend scheduled to ride back north on Monday but his Auto Train canceled.  Today ( SAT ) both running 9+ hours late.  Going to operate Sunday but not Monday.   ACY any idea how the passengers are going to be fed today and tomorrow ?  Any idea why so late ?