Hey theer Leon another round for the house if you don't mind. A bit of nostalgia tonight,that story on the interurban line Pete mentioned
CLASSIC JUICE # 26 THE GREAT GORGE ROUTE
Niagara Falls Parks & River Railway As with many municipalities in Canada and the United States Niagara Falls On & Ny owe their herritage to railways, few will actually admit this or celebrate it now however.An irony for sure is that one of Canda'a shortest lived Railways has had the most written about ( books , videos ) and thanks to the Niagara Parks Commission plaques for every scenic bit of it's line.This line is of coarse the Niagara falls Great Gorge Route. Like most things about Niagara Falls, there is an American and a Canadian side of it.The Great Gorge Route was no different in this.The Canadian side was built first,incorporated in 1891 by E.B. Oesler of Toronto and R.B. Angus( CPR Angus Shops Fame ) of Montreal. Operations started up in 1893 and it was electrified right from the get go ( no supprise there given the location ). Within the first two years it had carried half a million passengers in a single car ! Ferries from Buffalo landed at the Slater dock just south of Chippewa Ontario,from there the trolley cars met the passengers and bounced along the brink of the gorge to Queenston, where a spur carried them into town or up the escarpment to the Brock Monument and the Battle of Queenston Heights National Park.At Queenston passengers could board a steamer for a trip out the Niagara River and on into Toronto.This route gave the passengers an amazing view of the Horseshoe falls, the American Falls and the Rapids. The Americans didn't want to be left out of this tourism tour da force so in 1899 they built a mirror line on the American side of the Gorge,running from Lewiston NY to Niagara Falls Ny.Around the same time the Queenston-Lewiston Brige was being completed and quickly both side completed the belt line accross the bridge linking the two Gorge routes. In 1915, the worst accident on a Canadian radial line occured at Queenston.As a badley overcrowded car of Sunday Picnickers,began down the steeply inclined line from Brocks monument Park, the motorman tried to sand the rails in front of the car to help with the braking.To his shock and horror someone had forgotten to fill the cars sander. With no traction the car went out of control and jumped the tracks into the Niagara River, Fifteen passengers were killed about 100 injured ( car was built for 80 passengers ),luckily the companies steamer Chippawa was at the dock and it moved out into the river to recue the drenched passengers, otherwise many more may have been killed. Once the auto age hit, it devistated the Gorge route business ( Niagara Parkway was built above the ROW ). Between 1928-1932 the ridership plunged and the 1932 season was the Canadian sides last.The US side ran until 1935 when a massive landslide occurred and took out 200 feet of track and overhead.The repair cost out weighed the possible returns of passengers so this line too was shut down. Thus ended the era of being able to ride along the Niagara Gorge and enjoy the view from open air streetcars. Rob
Good evening Captain Tom and all present!!
A cold Tui, that's all, Leon. Thank you!
Another day with no photos available! I think Apple will get their servers up and running again tomorrow (Friday) morning at the same time they release the new iPhone!
DL – Drove up the footpath? I am sad to say I am not surprised. It seems like some people don’t care about anything. The worst thing is, like you mentioned, that they destroy for so many other. Tom – Thanks for the round! Tweetable, eh?I must admit I don’t know much about the visit of the Flexliner. I guess it wouldn’t hurt to do some research. PRR! Always interesting! Too bad they aren’t around any more! 44 seats to the car! That means there was plenty of room! The Jeffersonian had a nice looking drumhead!I found a video/film of the Freedom Train at Kenosha, WI 1949.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6OLCt3nrOsPete – Good news about the dog, re-united with his owners! You certainly did the right thing!Thanks for the info on the color coding! Do you know how many different colors they used? Blue, yellow, and ??Close to the road crossing in Durango?! That explains why the yard looked kind of narrow. The only photo I took of the yard in Durango was taken from that road crossing. I am afraid I can’t show it tonight, but I will as soon as I can.Nick – Rain? We got about 2” of rain tonight and it is not over yet. Thunder, lightning and rain. I know about the shutter release lag in a lot of digital cameras. My first one had that problem and after attending an air show in Sweden (missing several shots) I decided I needed something more responsive. The cameras (SLR) I have now are very quick, like the old fashioned film cameras. As an average I would say digital cameras today are better than they used to be from that point of view.Allan – I’ll send more heat next week after this weekend when we are expecting thunderstorms and rain every day. Interesting link on the XPT! Good looking train. Looks very British, reminding of the British Intercity 125. Rob – We have had a very wet evening here tonight and the temperature dropped more than 20˚ in 20-30 minutes. It is supposed to be this way over the weekend! No dry heat. I wonder if there is anything left of the two Gorge routes? Maybe a stretch of track or something? Interesting story!
Round for the house!
Eric
<R&S #20 RS-2, first diesel loco made in Canada by MLW - personal foto>
Friday's Grin
Brain Cramps
"We are ready for an unforeseen event that may or may not occur." -- A recent former U.S.Vice President ‘n Nobel Prize winner
G'day Gents!
Friday ‘n time to kick-start the morning with a mugga freshly ground ‘n brewed Joe - a few pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery case ‘n of course an order for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
Comments from the Proprietor
ONE MORE TIME! If youse guyz are going to log-on ‘n browse the bar during DAYLITE - why NOT drop at least a foto or a few words off Sure would go a long way to keeping things "up" at the bar. Thanx . . .
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative):
Thursday - July 10th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 53 - Dan <DL-UK> at 8:57 AM <2:57 PM GMT>: Finally got A-ROUNDTUIT with regard to giving your Post the attention deserved. <phew>
You are correct, Sir - I had no idea those carriages were adorned with such fine wood exteriors. Can just imagine the expense <in today's money> of replicating cars like those shown in the links. Most impressive, fer sure, fer sure. The car I alluded to was finished in teak ‘n mahogany - but inside. A magnificent touch to a well adorned car just reeking of big bucks. Probably just the kind we need as a business car for "Our" Place. Hmmmmmm, not a bad idea, eh
Interesting account of those train enthusiasts - but not really surprising. Takes all kinds - in all types of situations, eh I'll put my aside on this! <grin>
I recall a "poetic justice" story on one of my many trips between Montréal ‘n Halifax aboard the Ocean. There were two guys <rail fans> sitting up in the observation dome <Park car> who were LOUD by any other description. So much so that even <mild mannered Moi> had to adjourn to the lower level to give my inner ear a break. These guys just "knew" everything there was to know about this ‘n that along the right-of-way. Much of it was suspect, others wrong - but I refrained from "jumping" in. They really upset the normally placid environment up in the dome. And of course they "knew" how VIA Rail should do this ‘n that . . .
One guy was complaining - loudly of course, that he just couldn't understand why he couldn't smoke aboard the train. He also was rather rude in his commentary about <aboot for Rob> not having sufficient time to take fotos at the stops along the way - from the platform of course.
I'll NEVER know fer sure if the following was "orchestrated" by a crew member, but when the train arrived at a place where there's generally a 10 minute stop - these two loud mouths were told they could get off the train to smoke, etc. One of the two remained aboard - the other got off. As I recall, it wasn't a 10 minute stop - but a stop - followed by a pause - then the doors slammed shut ‘n off we went!
Loud mouth #1 was standing BEHIND the small station - smoking ‘n taking fotos of some cars on a run around track if I recall - as the train left him behind. I think he must've thought the train was moving "up," as they sometimes do after the baggage car is taken care of - coach boarding - then bedroom boarding <the consist was about 12-16 cars if I recall> That's no kidding - it happened pretty much as described.
The remainder of the trip was rather peaceful up in the Park car observation dome . . . as the car attendant informed Loud Mouth #2 that his ticket didn't entitle him to use of the Park Car <wasn't a bedroom passenger> - so he had to move up forward to coach ‘n the Skyline car dome. The remainder of the trip was ohhhhhhhhhhh so peaceful. RIP.
Never did learn what happened to Loud Mouth #1 - as those trains only run 6 days per week each way. So my guess is he was up the creek without a paddle ‘n probably very, very upset. <giggle>
Can't comment on The Young Ones - haven't viewed any of it.
Thanx for the tip on MultiMap - site wasn't available when I tried to use it, but I've added it to my "list" for future use.
Enjoyed eavesdropping your comments ‘n appreciate the effort you always put into your Posts!
Page 53 - Pete <pwolfe> at 6:19 PM: Awwwwwwright! Our Brit from Rugby has made his return to the bar AND in grand fashion at that! Another fine <I3 > Post <translated: inclusive - informative ‘n interesting>
Next time we visit the Barriger RR Library at UMSL let's make a point to do a bit of research regarding the fares for the Jeffersonian . . . would be interesting, fer sure, fer sure!
Email on the RR BOOK RELAY 2008 received ‘n responded to!
By my "count" we were without phone ‘n internet for about <aboot for Rob> 5 hours. Have no idea what the cause was - but it made our local news as the outages were wide-spread.
Hilarious <but disgusting!> tale of B.H. the dog . . . <ugh> <grin>
You get the Good Samaritan Award for that dog rescue! A tankard of Bathams is YOURS!
I'm beginning to think that EVERYTHING in JCity is a "short walk from Pat's"! <grin>
Hmmmmm - not quite certain that Leon the Night Man will be able to ride "shot gun" on that ‘freebie' daylite trip that you're putting together. He has to be "in" at 5 PM to relieve our day gal . . . HOWEVER, perhaps you can smooth-talk her into sticking ‘round a bit later on . . . Remember, our Manager must be clued in on these awesome changes to our schedule ‘round here. <geesh>
Presuming all went well at the dentist . . .
Thanx for the visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Page 53 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 8:18 PM <2:28 AM Friday GMT>: Saw your Post over on "my other Thread" - we'll just have to wait ‘n see whether the "other" guy from Brantford visits here . . .
Our Girl Scout organization is similar to yours <'n it should be since the youth movement began in the UK!>, or so it seems - Brownies still exist for the younger ones. Sounds as if you had one of those "proud Papa moments" at the school concert. <grin> I recall several of those - one in particular when my "little girl" was in the grade school band - the off-key clarinet "belonged" to her! But it was a GOOD concert as they all tried to make it so.
Always an interesting thing to get the other guy's point of view on this ‘n that. BUT, following YOUR rules <remember those??> we try to refrain from "hot button" issues ‘round this joint. Will add this to the mix - depends on which side of "it" one happens to be on when it comes to whether a "policy" was good or bad or indifferent.
No <tweeting> for that bit of OH-PIN-YUN - not to worry!
Appreciate your taking the time ‘n making the effort to brighten up the evening ‘round here! ROUND most welcome too!
Page 53 - Allan <Gunneral> at 10:01 PM <5:01 PM Friday NZ time>: Many thanx for the link on the XPT. Always enjoy learning a bit more regarding the trains ‘round the globe!
Odd, but for some unexplained reason, I'd not associate shallow lakes with NZ . . . always think of deep gorges, hundreds of feet deep waters ‘n so forth when it comes to your part of the world. Sounds as if you live in a most picturesque ‘n pleasant location.
With petrol going off the scale, the idea would be for a group of business people to put the "squeeze" on the powers to institute DMU service between localities where the employment is ‘n the residences. It's an uphill battle - but it can be done IF the business leadership gets on board. We failed in our attempt, but came oh so close. Now that petrol is at the 4 dollar mark, who knows Someone may resurrect our idea ‘n be successful.
Always appreciate your visits, chat ‘n ROUND!
Page 53 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 11:03 PM ‘n 11:36 PM: Wonder if we'll see that fellow who lives in Brantford over here at the bar Quite a coincidence, eh However - we've been down this road a few times . . . won't do any jumping thru hoops over it. Wait ‘n see . . .
Good read on the Niagara Falls Great Gorge Route, even if a tad early in the AM <6ish at this writing> . . . Always get a kick out of the references to those falls - as if THEY have nationalities. <yuck> <yuck> How arrogant can we get when "anointing" natural resources ‘n wonderments with the moniker of "belonging" . . . <barf> Back to the article - quite a story ‘n a sad time for those who were involved in the accident. Fortunately when the landslide happened, apparently no one was injured.
Appreciate the < I3 > Post, visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Friday - July 11th:
Page 53 - Eric <EricX2000> at 2:30 AM <12:30 AM Sandbox time>: Really enjoyed the YouTube video ‘n other links at that Freedom Train site. Given that the train wasn't preserved - at least there still remains an assortment of visuals to bring back what once was . . .
During the time that FlexLiner was in this area, there was a lot of talk regarding improved service between St. Louis ‘n Kansas City. One of the ideas involved the purchase of three train sets along with the activation of the "3rd window" in the Amtrak-UP contract. Since only 2 round trips each way were <and still are> operational - the idea was to institute a mid-day train, with a reworking of the entire schedule. The FlexLiner would "break apart" at JCity - with a portion heading to KCity ‘n the other returning to St. Louis. It was a bit more complex than that . . . but getting more frequent service to our state capital was supposedly a ‘selling point.' It didn't! <groan>
My information comes from being on the payroll with the legislature back then as the Transportation Liaison for my state representative . . .
Haven't been able to locate any "free" fotos of the Jeffersonian - although I do have several within books in my modest hardcover library. <grin> Don't believe in deliberately violating the copyrights - so I won't! <uh oh> It was a fine looking train - all smoothsides.
On the subject of digital cameras -we have two, both from Sony. My first <the one I continue to use> has that <censored> delay feature . . . whereas the newer one is a tad more "normal" with only a slight shutter pause. Anyway, one day I'll have to "spring" for a good camera - as yours are - ‘n be done with it! <grumble> <mumble>
Many thanx for your < I3 > Post, visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Dinner begins at 5 PM so come early ‘n often!
Cindy is our Saturday bartender!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Tom
Hello Tom and all in
A pancake breakfast for me please.
Great PRR images. Always enjoy those classic advert images when you post them Tom. Great poster art imagery - some of the guys who did that artwork probably didn't realise they were creating an image of the age that would survive for posterity!
Pete - that KATY trail is a good long cycle trail! Yes, I used that Bateman's offer to go to Wainfleet by train - I did not realise it had stopped - a shame as it was good value - it included free beer as well served in the bar at the basement of the windmill that is on their site and is their trademark.
Not got the Railway magazine so I've not seen that interview. I'm trying to restrict the magazines I get as they get bought and then not read quickly! I'm not sure if the Mk3 cars from Ireland will get bought for here, but it would make sense if they did. They require new wheel sets as there is a different gauge (I think - you will no doubt correct me if I am wrong). This would be a cheap way to get more cars but it will only happen if the UK govt helps fund it I suspect.
Nick - I agree with your comments about the drivers on the footpath, as Eric says too - as Pete says common sense seems to go out the window, just to get a photo - what annoyed me really was that the chaps concerned looked like really responsible and respectable people (probably they were nice guys) - yet they seemed to think it was perfectly OK to drive on a footpath - in a way I'd have been less shocked if they had looked like idiots, but they didn't - that was the whole weird thing about it!
Allan - thanks for the XPT link - really interesting. I did not realise they had Budd style cars matched with HST style locos. The link was most interesting. They have clearly given good value just like the 125's here - showing it was a great design. Shame it did not really result in further export orders for BR as it probably should have done.
We have some Veolia operated buses here, and I think they are part of some of the consortia that run certain UK trains as you say.
Rob - enjoyed that Niagara falls Great Gorge Route outline. You asked about the BR Mk2 and their comparison with the Canadian purchase of Channel Tunnel sleepers. There really is no comparison beyond the size of the stock for loading gauge reasons. The BR Mk2 design that NZ have bought was originally put together in the early 1960s and remained in construction until about 1975. So they are basically buying a sixties product - in a way! They are day cars too, not sleepers of course (rather an obvious contrast - my apologies - of course there are day car Ren cars too)
The cars VIA bought are modern (1990s designed) hi - tech sleeping cars and overnight seating cars (which is why they were probably not suited to making the adaptations needed for Canadian running - they were not designed for it). In theory the cars for VIA should have been a sensible purchase (although would never come up to the standards of some sort of modern Budd style north American gauge design - if such a thing existed at a price any govt was going to pay).
On the face of it one would question why NZ wants to buy 30+ year old Mk2s but I guess they have proven their reliability (eg it would seem more sensible for NZ rail authorities to buy the 20 year old ex Irish Rail Mk 3 cars as they are more modern - but no doubt this has been considered - there may be other issues). I know the NZ rail operators totally strip the cars and they are simply buying the steel body shell I guess.
This link outlines the Mk2 - and also adds a little to what Allan has described regarding the NZ exported cars:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Mark_2
Scroll below the text here for some pics of older non air conditioned Mk2s:
http://www.semgonline.com/coach/brmk2_1.html
Here is the Mk3 (which goes with the UK version of the Aussie XPT and are still in service throughout the UK today)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Mark_3
Here are the VIA Ren cars in pics for comparison. It is certainly a more modern design than the Mk2, irrespective of how fit for purpose it is.
http://www.railfaneurope.net/pix/gb/car/night/Nightstar/pix.html
I'm buying a drink for Tom now in order to try and distract him from making a tirade of abuse re Ren cars - since the purpose of this description was not to re-open that old discussion!!!
Regards
DL
PS Tom - just caught your post - great Dome story - one does not like to think of that happening to any fan but I guess they brought it on themselves - proabably too thick skinned to notice the aggro they were causing - probably knew they had no ticket for the Park car either but if they'd kept quiet would probably have got away with it!
Saw Fergie AND Lars logged "in" . . . would be a treat to see ‘em both come thru our doors!
Appreciate Dan's visit ‘n glad you caught my AM round of acknowledgments. Some of our number seem to be skimming over ‘em - which of course ain't good ‘n "says a lot" about the effort I'm putting into ‘em. <groan>
But in retrospect <I like that word!> perhaps it's just NOT receiving the MOST CURRENT info at the bar - so the use of the RELOAD/REFRESH feature on one's browser that is a MUST. Oh well, can lead a horse to water . . .
From the more recent archives - the annex room! Doesn't necessarily "qualify" as an Encore, since it hasn't been seen at our twice re-born bar!
Now Arriving on Track #1
A Nickel's Worth of Classic Covers!
Number Five
<Initially Posted on 13 Dec 2007, Page 153 of "Our" Place II>
Caveat: Use of the images presented is made under the provisions of Public Domain. There is no intent to profit or otherwise benefit from the display of these images except for personal pleasure.
(1) RR Magazine - 1952 - Idaho's Panhandle Pike
(2) RR Magazine - 1951 - December Trains
(3) RR Magazine - 1942 - The Speedy Future of Railroading
(4) RR Magazine - 1943 - Engine Cabs
(5) RR Magazine - 1952 - The Top Banana Line
Enjoy!
Good Afternoon Captain Tom and Company
Top me Tarbender and keep it simple and make it a Kieth's. Nick keep the cork the cork in the Paint remover as the stench is overpowering!!
I'll try the Steak and Kidney Pie today please and thanks.
Peter: The Brits ever use that to power their Steam Engines? I know if I drank it I'd be breaking a speed record or two diving for the Lew!
Rob: I never knew about the Great Gorge Railway so thank you for sharing with us. I spent many trips in my youth travelling to Niagara Falls so when you posted this story it was quite interesting. Make a really good show on "Disaster's of the Century" don't you think? As far as the Nationality of the two Falls yes Tom raises a very interesting point. The Canadian Side wins!!! Oh fighting words spoken in the Parlour! And if I should get the boot from this establishment you maybe interested in knowing that the front doors have been hung on the "Acient Mariner's Pub", more affectionately known as "AFM's" (Tom knows the "after hours " story behind that that name).
DL: You made an interesting comment regarding Via's new purchases. It's a Canadian thing you see "Old Boy". Buy Cheap and then spend 10X's the real value on modifying it into something that meets only half your needs. Coast Guard has done it, our navy done it (4 preowned Brit subs) and the list goes on forever!
And on the Home Front... According to the CFO The "Package" has arrived!!! Y_E_Ssss!!!
Now all I have to do is wait 5 days to get home (And beat the arrival of Bertha) to open it and see if the M.E.S.S.'s latest aquisition works?
Oh by the way we made headlines today though the stories have a few inaccuracies, which is not too uncommon for the media when they report on stories on the Coast Guard.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/newfoundland-labrador/story/2008/07/11/sea-rescue.html
Anyway I have to go and do more paper work (Processing Trees)
Later All
Fergie
http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=5959
If one could roll back the hands of time... They would be waiting for the next train into the future. A. H. Francey 1921-2007
Hi Tom and all.
A cup of coffee and a bacon sarnie please RUTH.
I had had a quick read of the posts but I will read them properly and post my replies a bit later.
A few photos of the pride of the LMS.4-6-2 'Princess Coronation'(to give its official name) N0 6233 Duchess of Sutherland.
At its home now, when not out on the main line, at Swanwick Junction Derbyshire on the Midland Railway Centre.
Prior to working a steam tour I was on to Carlisle at Crewe.
After arrival at Carlisle with a good climb of Shap.
Pete.
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!!
Ruth my deAH, soooooooooooooooooooo good to see you - radiant as always! <blush> Couldn't wait until the morning as I understand the forums will be undergoing some sort of a process, so figured it best that I stop in today just in case I can't get here on Saturday. Anyway, you'd not be here on Saturday! <grin>
Ruth my deAH, I'll take a #3 from the menu board with a large mugga steaming hot coffee with a jolt, if you will!
Boris my man - put me down ‘n go feed the crittAHs. Yeah, you remember - Awk gets the tray o' seeds - Tex the saucer o' brine - Frostbite the bucket o' ice cubes - Spike gets the tree bark - Juneau the dog bone ‘n Artie the field mouse (outside - outside!). You That large jar o' PPF is yours when your chores are done ‘n the change is for my lovely! <blush>
Yes, this is my "monthly" stop - and as always, sorry it can't be more. Not even sure about tomorrow but I did want to offer my BEST WISHES for a most HAPPY 39th MONTHLY CELEBRATION of the birth of "Our" Place!
All kinds of things to browse through, especially the photos from Cap'n Tom ‘n the Rendezvous along with his trip to Canada. Really well done, Cap'n Tom!
A 5- salute for Da Bossman who ALWAYS provides top shelf material for Da Boyz at Da Bar! Nearly 500 photos!
Hardly even have made a dent in the ongoing great stuff being shared amongst the crew since my last visit. Just amazing how youse guyz are keeping things flowing in spite of being so few in number!
I just had to take the time to read through the offerings from our guy in Wales - NICK! Always a pleasure to see him at the bar, knowing how much Da Bossman appreciates his contributions! My guess is the regulars ALL feel the same way!
Looks like Pete ‘n Tom have had another "session" at their favorite bar in the area , the Trainwreck saloon! Then a train trip to Kansas City (envy - envy). Youse guyz really are a pair! Am I correct in my assumption that you're getting together in Jefferson City, soon That ought to bring out the State Police!
Ahoy Pete! I see you Posted a bit before me - so I'm "editing" this in . . . good to see ya 'n have one of those Brit-brews you like so much (can't think of the name!!)
Also picked up on Eric keeping to his nighttime stuff along with Manager Rob. While the daytime seems to be a hit ‘n miss sorta thing, the bar is humming with all of you helping whenever you can!
Can't forget mention of our good buddy from way down under - Allan the Gunner! You are now in winter, while many of us are sweltering in summer heat. (envy - envy).
Last, but certainly not least, the man we call Shane (or better put, "I'm NOT Shane") seems to have gotten away for a couple of weeks. Haven't been able to track things on a daily, or even a weekly basis, but my guess is he's been missed.
So, that about covers it, huh Don't know who the irregular guys are any more - but I have noticed Dan has returned from Robin Hood's Sherwood forest. Even looks like a regular, which is a great boost for this joint! Time for reinstatement, Bossman
Apologies if I've left anyone out, but don't recall any other names "jumping out" at me on a regular basis.
Sounding like that "broken record" that I've mentioned a time or two, I do miss the good times at the bar. Really hasn't left me, but without the proper amount of time, I just can't keep up with it all. There are weeks when I don't even turn on the ‘puter - not even once. One of my sons has been a sorry pain in the patoot about this ‘n has "threatened" to "plunk my butt in front of it" if I don't "lighten up." What a boy! Anyway, it is my pleasure to spend these moments with the gang!
Surely must make mention of having a wonderful long weekend recently. Was most surprised to see that gorgeous redhead arrive at the airport . . . ahhhhhhhhh, the things we do for pleasure, huh (wicked smile). Many thanks to Da Bossman, Manager ‘n anyone else who assisted in getting her here! (another wicked smile).
Here's a bunch of covAHs found in Da Larsman Mobile . . . I'll keep ‘em to that rule of six, just to make sure I avoid a TWEETING!
Hope to be back on Saturday . . . but should that not work out, my BEST to all who continue supporting "Our" Place as it was meant to be.
OH my, my - FERGIE has stopped by with an exchange of banter at the bar with the boyz! Good seeing you again, fellow mariner! Forgive me for not picking up on your previous postings, must've just missed 'em. Anyway, I'm sure Da Bossman will be happy now that we've BOTH made it to the bar within minutes of one another! Have another Keiths on me.
Ok Ruth, it appears that there's some <ahem> admin work that has piled up in my Senior Manger Emeritus "in" basket. Why not join me up in the Penthouse Suite so we can "tackle" it <blush> Boris, watch my back . . . . no, no - not that way!
Until the next time!
Lars
Well Tom, nice spread of covers - similar work for those quality artists working on the ads I guess!
Time for a beer.
I see Fergie has stepped in with an accurate view on the Renaissance Cars. Don't be too hard on your self about it being a Canadian thing Fergie - I reckon it is a ‘government thing' - tends to happen all the time - obsession with driving down price to show good value to the taxpayer means you buy sub standard - but then you can't admit that was stupid so you find money behind the scenes to throw at the problem you've made for yourself and hope not too many people notice! Rest assured it happens the world over is my guess.
I know we've rehearsed this discussion before - but this is an interesting link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nightstar_(train)
The thing that gets me is that here in the UK the process meant we were denied the chance to travel comfortably overnight to Europe by train.
Here's a quote from wikipedia:
"The 139 Nightstar carriage stock order began construction in 1992 and continued slowly until the whole project was put on hold in 1997, then formally abandoned in 1999. The reasons for the delay in the start of operations and then the final cancelling of construction are similar to those given for the non-start of Regional Eurostar service: primarily due to rising costs and competition from low cost airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet"
Makes you think may be people are not going to look so clever now the fuel price has gone through the roof - these trains might have been able to offer a more price competitive deal!
Anyway - here's a round for the house: Batham's, Keiths, Harvey's, Tui's - whatever anyone wants (no Nick - no need to drink those alco pops you liberated from the Brownies summer event....)
PS - I see Pete's posting LMS pics (I guess you did not want too many people getting the wrong idea what with those GWR pics Pete) - AND - I'm in same time as Lars - and Lars is ordering British Brews!! or I'm I dreaming - It's on me Lars - great post (- great covers too - inc inside what looks like a Brit Roundhouse - do you recognise it Pete?)
<The Chaleur 'n Ocean at Matapédia - personal foto>
Been a long, long time since I've put together a mid-day round of acknowledgments - but this Friday has been a most welcomed exception.
I must admit that when viewing Fergie ‘n Lars logged in, my hope was that they'd show up. But more often than not, it doesn't happen that way. So many of the guys are on-line, but for whatever the reason don't stop by with so much as a Howdy-Do - that is until they complete whatever it is they are working on. Not today! Many thanx.
Also noted Pete's arrival before noon ‘n the morning 'n afternoon visits from Dan. An all ‘round good day, fer sure, fer sure!
Friday - July 11th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 53 - Dan <DL-UK> at 9 AM <3 PM GMT>: Picking up on what Lars, our Senior Manager <Emeritus>, recommended - you, Sir have been reinstated to the GoR <Gang of Regulars> here at "Our" Place. That stool over there - the one with the teak ‘n mahogany trim is YOURS for visits as a REGULAR at this Saloon by the Siding!
I didn't have the least bit of remorse for the character who was left behind as the train pulled away. I was very surprised that the train didn't wait for him . . . but then again, if it was an "inside job," well . . . <grin> He probably got some sort of "compensation" for his inconvenience, not to mention perhaps a cab ride to catch up with the train at a stop down the line. Don't know - don't care, but it was surely "poetic justice" for him. Too bad the other guy got off light . . .
As mentioned <to the chagrin of at least one> at our recent Rendezvous - I don't consider myself a rail fan - in whatever "sense" of the term one prefers. I don't chase ‘em - I don't wait for ‘em to pass by a specific place nor do I engage in the assorted other activities generally associated with this sort of thing. A mid-point CAVEAT: none of this should be construed as being derisive - to each his own. I just enjoy trains - particular passenger trains, but far more so while as a passenger.
Sure, I've taken "boat loads" of fotos ‘n probably still will. I do not recall ever being a bother to anyone while doing so, ‘n surely haven't "overstepped" any bounds regarding trespass <that I'm aware of>. So, I'd say my behavior surely separates me from those guys you described ‘n of course the ones I encountered aboard VIA Rail's Ocean.
No resurrecting any anxiety from me regarding your bringing up those Chunnel Chuggers purchased by VIA Rail ‘n anointed as Renaissance. We've been down that right-of-way before . . . Good links, though . . .
I should add that from my very limited storage area of knowledge on the subject - seems to me that the costs associated with replicating the Budd fleet of stainless steel cars <which VIA STILL insists on referring to as HEP rather than Budd or simply "stainless"> were so exorbitantly out of whack, that they jumped at a "pig in a poke." Oh well - happens, eh
Thanx for the drink! <clink>
A good effort on this Friday from our Resident Brit in Sherwood Forest - an < I3 > Post well within the parameters of what we hope for at the Tavern by the Tracks!
Page 53 - Fergie <Fergmiester> at 11:29 AM <1:59 PM Newfie time>: Most pleasant surprise from our Irregular Part-time Part-time Resident Canadian Maritime Mariner! <phew>
No, "boot" from Moi regarding any good natured "jabs" in this establishment. No thin skins allowed at this bar! <grin> So, keep on keeping on, Mate!
How about a foto of that bar of yours I recognize that you may not have uploaded it prior to shoving off on your latest venture - but keep in mind you are REMISS in contributing to our Wednesday Toy ‘n Model Trains Day! Figured you for a "regular" at that one . . . <geesh>
Ancient Mariner's Pub has a nice "ring" to it . . . after hours Why, Sir - I know not of what you speak! <geesh>
Thanx for the news link - I've read several in the past week regarding your outfit being rather busy with the rescue work . . . Many times it was just a matter of being within that "window" of steaming distance that determined whether the injured would live or not . . . most unforgiving environment - the sea.
Can't credit you with an < I3> Post - for unless ‘n until you recognize ALL the efforts, why we'll just have to be satisfied with your "selective" comments . . . <grin>
Thanx for the visit, chat, good cheer ‘n business! <KaChing> <KaChing>
Page 53 - Pete <pwolfe> at 11:34 AM: My guess is you never saw Fergie's Post . . . pretty much arrived at the same time. Most happy to see the two of you before noon!
Helping out in the morning has been a relief valve for Moi . . .
Great looking color scheme on the 3rd of your fotos!
Thanx for dropping by with a load of coal to keep the steam up!
Page 53 - Lars <LoveDomes> at 11:45 AM: And perhaps the biggest surprise of this day has been your visit! Surely didn't expect to see ya ‘n hoped you'd make it "in" for Saturday. But there you were . . . many thanx! I know Ruth is "pleased"! Hmmmmmm.
Rather than my rehashing your Post - let me just say how refreshing it is to have you at the bar. Of course, that newly refurbished stool - marked on the brass plate - Senior Manager <Emeritus>, with the teak ‘n mahogany trim is YOURS! We've gotten rid of all of the former Order of the Stools paraphernalia, salvaging what we could for the remakes. These new stools have come at quite a price - given that Vito the Hit's Furniture ‘r Us <or else!> has the "contract" for distribution in this county. <ooooooooooh>
Most interesting spate of covers from the Larsman Mobile! Each one "tells" a story, eh Sometimes you CAN tell a book by its cover, eh
Hmmmmmm, noticed the keys to the Penthouse Suite are gone, along with Ruth ‘n Boris. <huh-what?> Hmmmmmm. I see your vehicle parked alongside the bar - so I KNOW you're "in the building"!!
Really, really pleased to see ya ‘n not to worry ‘bout the ‘morrow. If you can make it - great - if not, we'll survive. Saturdays really have been awfully sloooooooooooow more times than not. So, we're NOT holding out for anything special - just mention of the day is sufficient!
Page 53 - Dan <DL-UK> at 12:35 PM <6:35 PM GMT>: Back with a two-fer is our Resident Brit in Sherwood Forest!
Surely reminds me of "back in the day" of "Our" Place I when these types of exchanges were far more commonplace than today. But, we takes what we gets at the Tavern by the Tracks - and today, we're delving into the Nightstar ‘n perhaps a decision made in haste - at either end. <groan> But of course, that's what we call "Monday morning quarterbacking" - or better known as, hindsight.
Many thanx for the continuing chat ‘n ROUND! "Alco pops" <yikes> Tell us it isn't so, Nick! <grin>
<from the northbound ARR Denali Star - personal foto>
NOTICE - NOTICE - NOTICE
A REMINDER - this one just Posted on our Forum
From Friday, July 11 at 5:00 p.m. Central Time, through Sunday, July 13, the registration / login system at Trains.com will be down for maintenance. Thus, over the weekend you'll be able to take a free tour of all the great online content that's usually available only to Trains.com registered users or subscribers of our magazines. During the times mentioned above, you will not be able to register for a new account or log on to Trains.com with an existing account. Reader forum users will be able to post as long as they're logged in and have a cookie set prior to the times mentioned above. The site will be back to normal and open for new registrations on Monday, July 14.Sorry for any inconvenience. If you want to see a list of all the features that are available this weekend, visit this page.Have a great weekend,BergieErik BergstromInternet Publishing ManagerTrains.com
From Friday, July 11 at 5:00 p.m. Central Time, through Sunday, July 13, the registration / login system at Trains.com will be down for maintenance. Thus, over the weekend you'll be able to take a free tour of all the great online content that's usually available only to Trains.com registered users or subscribers of our magazines.
During the times mentioned above, you will not be able to register for a new account or log on to Trains.com with an existing account. Reader forum users will be able to post as long as they're logged in and have a cookie set prior to the times mentioned above.
The site will be back to normal and open for new registrations on Monday, July 14.
Sorry for any inconvenience. If you want to see a list of all the features that are available this weekend, visit this page.
Have a great weekend,Bergie
Erik BergstromInternet Publishing ManagerTrains.com
So, the idea is to REMAIN logged on - and - do NOT remove "cookies" from your system 'til this is all over with. Otherwise you'll not be able to participate at the bar . . .
Later!
Ruth my deAH, how about a double belt of JD on the rocks(favorite of Da Bossman) ‘n slide the snack tray down my way, wudja Here's a fifty for the "kitty" - give the Gang of RegulAHs a drink on me when they trickle in. Change is YOURS, of course!
Good to be around my favorite watering hole ‘n figured I'd let Cap'n Tom know that I appreciate the "heads up notice" about the forums getting worked on. It was for that reason (your first notice) that I have remained logged on, to make sure I can get back here tomorrow.
Many THANKS for my new stool, very classy 'n nicely done, mate!
The Order of the Stools was a great idea, but kinda outlived its usefulness. There just were some guys who wouldn't do their part. Pretenders to the throne, I'd say. They liked the glory, but hadn't put themselves out to earn it. Happens, huh I think the thing ran its course - out with the old 'n in with the new. As I've read several times on these pages, this is a fine group, perhaps the finest yet. It's all about keeping within the ground rules, which I've never had a problem with whereas others have just blown off. Who needs the latter!?!? Not us! Keep up the good work you Gang of RegulAHs!
Didn't mention my Mets, or your Cardinals for that mattAH in my last visit. I haven't been following hardly any of the games. I know they haven't done as well as the expectations, Mets that is. When I get the chance to check the standings, looked as if your Cards have been in the hunt, but are showing signs of slipping. Phils did a number on ‘em I see. Not good for the Mets!
It's been a looooooooooooooooooooong year thus far with expectations of no changes in sight. Today, I've gotten a break from my routine, as things here are a bit on the quiet side. The Mrs. is out with a couple of her closest gal friends. They come by about once a month to get her out. To the malls, where else?!?!? Then if she's up to it, a bite to eat ‘n maybe even a movie. So, I've had the place pretty much to myself. There's nevAH enough time to get this place ship-shape if you know what I mean! Amazing job the women do when it comes to keeping a house squared away.
Glad I could offAH up some timely help on this Friday. I've had a bit more time to read through about 20 pages of stuff ‘n can see who is (and who isn't) keeping things going. Nice work from the guys I expected to hold up their end of the deal - Pete - Eric - Rob - Shane ‘n Allan of course. Then Nick has come on strong along with Dan returning has a regulAH! (Thanks for picking up on my suggestion, Cap'n Tom!) Can't forget the not-so-ancient marinAH, Fergie, up there in Nova Scotia! He's kinda like a hit ‘n miss all on his own - but we luv him just the same! I still think the guy has his "German" a bit skewed - Fergmiester should be FergmEister. <sheesh> <grin>
Was I drinking British ale ???? Hmmmmm, didn't notice! <grin> Thought it was coffee with a jolt! Musta been some jolt! Thanks for the drink, Dan!!
Anyone else wondering WHY we keep seeing some of those OLD threads called up time after time after time?? Surely seems to me that hardly anyone ever reads the first page of them - as if the authors are still around. JanOlov's thread comes to mind . . . he's been long gone since January! I wholeheartedly agree that some sort of protocol is sorely lacking on these open forums. A topic that spirals downhill, for sure, huh Best to remain "inside" at the bar, ‘n to blazes with the rest of the world!
Should make mention that those photos on Da Bossmans Posts are top shelf, for sure!
Keys have been returned . . .
A few more book covAHs from me while I recoup from my <ahem> admin work earlier this day! <phew>
Ruth, I see it's almost quitting time! I'll give you a lift home . . . <blush> Boris, give the gang another round of treats 'n a small jar of PPF for YOU!
Hope to see youse guyz tomorrow . . .
What's this no RUTH and BORIS guarding the stairs to the Penthouse Suite, a note on the bar saying beer paid for, help yourself.
NICK Yes it was not far from where you are, at Penalli near Tenby, where I was put off whisky for life as a young man.
I hope there is plenty of freight activity when you take your trip to Swansea or Cardiff, perhaps there will be one of the last class 37s running around
ALLAN Many thanks for the URL to the XPTs. I wonder if there is a plan to re-engine them, as a lot of the BR HSTs are having their engines replaced. It was a nice touch to name the XPT power cars. I see there were at one time a BR HST and an Australian XPT running with a City of Newcastle name.
I see the Rugby game is on at 2 AM here I guess live, it is to be repeated at 5 PM. Should be able to see an our of the game at Pat's at least before the baseball comes on. But I will have to do the Honey Dos first.
ROB Its not so much the pain as the wallet emptying that affects me at the dentist.
Many thanks for the Classic Juice on the Great Gorge Route; unfortunately the map in the magazine only shows the US. Railway. I recalled how the line carried 500,000 passengers in the single car in two years and the tragic accident when the overloaded car jumped the track and fell in the river.
ERIC I hope Apple get their servers up, I am missing your photos.
Many thanks for the URL to the 1949 Freedom Train. Liked the commentary as the very fine looking Alco's engine idled in the background. While I was there I played a Freedom Train song with a very good computer graphic of 4449 as the video, very good I thought.
The Great Western colour codes with some of the classes it applied to, heaviest locomotives first.
Double Red 4-6-0 King class. Red: 4-6-0s Castle, Hall, Grange, County classes 2-8-0 4700, 2-8-0 and 2-8-2 Tank locomotives. Most of the other wheel arrangements fell in the Blue and Yellow categories depending on the individual class weight. The uncoloured locomotives were mainly the lighter 0-6-0, 0-4-0 and 0-4-2 tank engines.
I will look forward to your Durango photos I am hoping to show mine tomorrow.
DL I found another couple of photos of the tunnel at Rocheport on the KATY Trail.
There could not have been any bats or snakes in the tunnel as here is a photo from the other side.
It would be good to know if that offer to Wainfleet is still available, I guess even if the all in ticket is not longer done anymore it is still possible to tour the brewery.
Perhaps some of the smaller companies, that I see are running passenger trains in the UK, will take those Irish Rail Mk IIIs.
The trouble is if one those people who disregard the fences and trespass on the railway to photo a steam special and was hit by a train it would most probably mean the end of main line steam in the UK, it is mostly non enthusiasts who are the worst I have read.
Many thanks for the URLs on the MkII and Mk III coaches.
Yes, as you say, perhaps with the rising airfares those Nightstars could have found a role in Europe in the not too distant future.
Many thanks for the Bathams. I think that roundhouse is the North East of England. Perhaps West Hartlepool, Sunderland or Thornaby. I just can't make out the locos numbers, which then I could look up their shed code.
FERGIE Well done of the rescue in the link. I don't. think I would like to go to sea on a ship named ‘Sinko' anything.
Looks like a good package waiting when you get home.
I though the ‘O' class Submarines you bought were good boats but were they bought new.
LARS Really great to see you in the bar again, I know RUTH as been pining a bit lately.
Many thanks for the kind words and the 39th Birthday wishes of Our Place. Hope you can get in tomorrow.
Yes Tom and I have been about, the TrainWreck Saloon was great as usual and we even had time, although not much, to see a bit of Union Station in Kansas City on our last trip.
Great set of book covers from the Larsman Mobile, love the painting on the ACL one and that great stone viaduct on the D&H, not forgetting the BR roundhouse scene.
TOM I recall you telling me about those loudmouths on The Ocean, poetic justice indeed.
Many thanks for the tankard; although it was really good fortune the bride came along at the right time as we able to our pooch in the car while using the lead to catch the lost dog.
Pat's is about ¾ mile from us but seems a lot longer coming back with three steps forward and two back.
Temporary crown on tooth still there at the minute.
I think it will be hard to keep LEON off the Daylight with Nick and I, as he is getting very protective of HELGA lately.
Many thanks for the Railroad Magazine Covers; I like the December Trains showing the snow as it hots up here. I had a look inside the Engine Cab issue at the Barringer Library one time we were there, an interesting read.
Yes the LMS livery on 6233 looks really well in the sun at Carlisle.
Well LEON I see you are in early, the noise you hear is just RUTH singing , so a round please and the Steak 'n' Fries.
Congratulations on turning page 54
Another Bathams please LEON as I see Tom and LARS have been in.
TOM Thanks for the reminder about the forums tomorrow and the great Alaska photo
LARS Good words about the forum and the bar and another great set of bookcovers.
Got quite a tingle seeing the Main Line Lament cover, I have stood in that spot where the photo was taken, which is in Catesby Tunnel, but not at midnight as the one in the cover was. The Great Central passed through my home town. By a coincedence I have a DVD that I got very recently that shows a short cine clip of a 2-10-0 9F steam locomotive hauling a freight train entering the tunnel, just a couple of years before the rails were ripped up.
Well LEON another round please.
Good afternoon Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Just a double cheese burger, Leon. No, regular sized!
I am glad I got some time to stop by a little bit earlier than normal. Still without any possibilties to post any photos.
Tom – Interesting ideas about using Flexliner train sets St. Louis – Jefferson City – Kansas City. Too bad it didn’t happen. Those trains can be coupled and un-coupled while moving. It is annoying when you try to take a picture with a camera and the shutter is delayed a second. Today it is possible to find low price cameras with very little delay according to some camera tests I have read. A good collection of magazine covers! One of my age! Actually 9 months younger. Cab forward, I actually saw a little bit of a video the other day showing cab forward locomotives in action! SP of course. Interesting!DL – Were those rail fan idiots who drove on the foot path ever told to get out of there? Any police or somebodey else?Fergie – Inaccuracies happen almost every time media is reporting something, even in not Coast Guard related stories. Looking forward to a report on the new M.E.S.S. locomotive! Pete – Nice photos of #6233! When did you take them? Apple is having some problems and I am still not able to post any photos. Thanks for the info on the color code! I did not know it existed, but I have a feeling you’ve mentioned it sometime before. And thanks for the Katy Trail photos with the tunnel in the background!Lars – Surprise, surprise, our Senior Manager Emeritus is here! Good to see you again! You are missed, not only by Ruth, but all of us! Hope you will be able to stop by tomorrow! Some very nice book covers! Even one (New York Central) with snow! I guess that is a special for Captain Tom! Great Northern in Color has a very nice photo on the cover! Got some good pictures out of the hidden security camera in the Penthouse suite before somebody covered the lense! Thanks for the drink!
Hi Tom and all,
Leon, the usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please!
Rob. As you can see from Dan`s posts those Brit Via cars were built for use on the Eurostar night services that never eventuated. Nice write up in Classic Juice #26 on the Great Gorge Route.
Eric. Send some more heat please! Those Aussie XPT`s were a de-rated Intercity 125 with locally made cars, so they are virtual carbon copies. Interesting about those Flexliner`s being able to be uncoupled while on the move, in the the old days`the GWR used to run what they called "Slip coach`s" that were uncoupled on the move at speed, they had a Brakesman on board and they were coasted into "Slip coach" bay`s at certain stations along the line to save the main train stopping along the way.
Fergie. Good to see you in again.
Pete. Hope you`ve got over your visit to the dentist by now. A lovely set of pix of #6233 "Duchess of Sutherland", she looks really immaculate. In the Newcastle area of NSW there is even another Wallsend, that area covers the Hunter Valley wine district and most of the place names are from Geordieland, it was a big coal mining area and most of the miners were Geordie stock. Hope you get to see some of the Boks game at Pat`s Place, should be an exciting game thats for sure!
Dan. Glad you liked that link to the Aussie XPT`s. Toll Rail got those BR Mk2 cars at a bargain price, they strip them down to their basic framework and then re-build them totally, they are re-bogied with Japanese 3ft 6inch gauge high speed bogies`. Toll reckoned that the Mk3 cars were a much more expensive option for NZ. Nice links to the Mk2, Mk3 and the Nightstar cars.
Lars. Great to see you on board once again with a couple of very fine posts`, a really nice surprise that's for sure. It`s great to see two fine sets` of covAHS from the Larsman Mobile, just like the old times at "Our Place", you are sorely missed here thats for sure, your visits`, when you get the chance, are very much looked forward to by us all here.(a "FIFER"!)
Tom. Most of the lakes` here in NZ are as you described, but our lake here in Waipukurau is only miniscule in size when compared to all the other large ones`. I`m real glad we have our Nissan "Sunny" (Sentra) these days` as we get about 46 miles to the UK gallon out of it on average. A nice set of Classic Covers`in the Nickel`s Worth of Covers post. That was a great story of that so called "Raifan`s" demise, he got what he deserved in the end as well as his mate being put in his rightful place.
See ya, Allan
Good evening Leon , you look absolutly beat. Nice to see how busy we were today 5x tp all of you,great conversation and great posts all round. Boris pat them all on the back. Oh Leon just a Guiness tonight for me,I see that Lars left a bit o cash in the kitty which is awfully nice of him
Tom-Wow thoswe two guys sounded like absolute JO's,too abd they both wern't left behnd,hopefully he got bussed the rest of the way in a really slooow smelly one with a broken can
Great covah's as well,we have been well and truly blessed by the bookmibiles today Glad you liied the reprint. It is funny how countries in general ahve to slap names on things,oh well it'sa ll about who has the most when it comes to countrie in politics Leon a round on the manager please.
Soooo Pete wishes to have Leon accompany him does he,well if Ruth's up for it that day to work the extra shift Pete will; need to pay her time in a half out of his pocket.<uh Oh> Oh no cheques either.(looks like his wallets taking a beating again )
Lars-Great to see you sir,with two fine posts as well with all the trimmings I might add I think we need to send out a certain redhead more often
Good to hear that the missus got some quality time in with her freinds.Retail therapy isn't always a bad thing ( only to the pocket book )I wish we could ahve you here more often,but we all know that you aer with us in sprirt anyway which is just as important
Dan-Great links to those MK1,2's and 3's. I often wonder if they really would have been all that comfoprtable in their as designed usage anyway.Also with gas prices those cheaper jetlines you mentioned that were sited as competition may well end up flying less and costing more.They may wish they hadn't sold those cars to us.
Pete-Great photo's of both the trains and that tunnel. Next time we need to see the wildlife that lives in them. Perhaps as another pet for BorisThanks for the insites on the colour codings as well, interesting stuff
Nothing really remains of the physical plant of the Gorge route, road realigning and nature have obscured 90% of what was.Those times ,were tuff ,generally any electric or other RR that went out of business were stripped and sold off to the last bolt,so that investors would get back as much as possible.
Fergie-great to see you in throuhg teh doors again today. Good on you guys for helping that sailor out,the ships name is a little dsiquieting.Sink should never be in the name of any vessel that ply's the oceans.
Eric-Nice early visit from you today Don't feel bad about not knowing much of the flexliner tours I missed them entrily myself .I guess you city is a big mud puddle now with all that rain
Allan-Thanks for your thoughts on the MK2's as well.I think if you ever make it over heer I'll need to take you on a tour of the North western Portion of my Province. tree's rocks and lakes of many differing sizes and varieties,you would love it I think.Gotta love the Canadian Shield , just ask Tom.
Rob
Happy 39th Month Anniversary of "Our" Place!
39th Month at the Tavern by the Tracks - Bar by the Ballast - Watering Hole by the Wayside - Saloon by the Siding - or just simply, "Our" Place!
All breakfasts ‘n buffet luncheon is on the house for this day . . .
Drinks are also free for our GoR <Gang of Regulars> . . . <awwwwwwwright!>
Spotted just outside of town:
Kudos to all who helped make our Friday a most unusal ‘n happy event - especially those of you who made it "in" during the DAYLITE hours!
The Senior Manager's <Emeritus> Bar!
Page 54 - Lars <LoveDomes> at 4:31 PM: Our Senior Manager <Emeritus> came back with yet another spate o' covAHs from his Larsman Mobile!
On the baseball front - I too have been a bit withdrawn from it all. Just not "into" it as in past years . . . not so much the on again/off again manner of play with the Cards, just the whole scene hasn't flicked my switch. Do watch it on TV to keep track of the scores - but we have a split screen feature, so the game is on one side <no sound> ‘n the program we really would rather watch is on the other <most times a news show - sans politics that is!
You pretty much "nailed" it with the long-gone Order of the Stools. Started off as a fun thing - got a bit too involved <my fault> - then I let my guard down by "initiating" those who really weren't interested in supporting the bar the way I had hoped. Yeah - pretenders pretty much says it all.
Appreciate the Email you sent ‘n I did respond, but understand that you aren't checking it very often - if at all. Anyway, be thankful you have someone in your life who CARES about <aboot for Rob> you the way your son does! Many are very much alone in this world - many. ‘nuf said . . .
My lower back is driving me to distraction lately <degenerative arthritis> - ‘n just the thought of a work out in the Penthouse Suite . . . hurts. <grin>
With TWO visits from you on Friday, it surely seemed like the olde tymes had returned. I said I'd shutter up the joint when ‘n if you left . . . didn't happen BECAUSE our current <GoR> wouldn't let it. They've been really supportive ‘n as active as their time permits. Can't really ask for more, eh But, I do! <grin>
I always spend a bit o' time dwelling on those covAHs you provide - they really are an interesting "study." Your 1st installment was grand - the 2nd, even better-er!
Regarding the other Threads ‘n Forums: I "stray" occasionally ‘n most times wonder WHY I did. Wasn't long ago that I saw something on another Forum - dropped off a line or two along with a couple of fotos - got zero, zilch, zip as a response. Are we spoiled over here OR do we simply do it RIGHT I think WE know the answer to that one, eh As to dredging up Threads that have outlived their purpose - as long as the sponsor <Kalmbach> doesn't put a "sunset provision" on the Threads, this is going to happen. Just burns my Patoot that when something MEANINGFUL gets "locked" - it can't be brought back, but the nonsense ‘n time perishable stuff can. <barf> <censored>
Many, many THANX for putting a zip into our Friday! Should you be unable to make it "in" today - we KNOW you are thinking of us! Also, appreciate the bucks for the bar, good cheer ‘n great covAHs!
You are sorely missed ‘round here . . .
Page 54 - Pete <pwolfe> at 5:01 PM ‘n 5:28 PM: And our Bar Chandler returned with another of his inclusive, informative ‘n interesting < I3 > Posts - a two-fer, in fact!
Appears YOU have gotten yourself into a situation we sailors refer to as "extremis" - look it up! No matter what you do, you're still in trouble . . . <uh oh>
As much as I do enjoy your foto offerings <especially the tunnel shot!>, the one's of the Katy Trail really bother me in that I detest the thought of those tracks ‘n ties being torn up <for scrappers making a profit> ‘n the reality that the STB <Suface Transportation Board> has put the nail in the coffin of it ever returning to "life" as a railroad right-of-way. Just bothers me . . . good shots though ‘n don't let my protestations adversely impact you. Not meant that way . . .
The more I think about <aboot for Rob> those fine looking steam locos over in your homeland, the more I want to visit your national railway museum . . . <arrrrrrrrgggggghhhhh> Torn, torn, torn . . .
Was surprised at your question directed to Fergie ‘bout those subs . . . of course you recall seeing one of them up on the chocks as we crossed the harbor <harbour> between Halifax ‘n Dartmouth. Anyway, those diesel boats were purchased USED . . . but you KNEW that - I KNOW you did! <geesh>
As always, thanx for the visit, chat, fotos ‘n ROUNDS! Looking forward to seeing you next week . . .
Page 54 - Eric <EricX2000> at 5:58 PM <3:58 PM Sandbox time>: I just don't believe it - nope, can't be! The Sandman has come in during daylite <early at that out in the desert>
You'd think this Friday was a special occasion or something - must've been the return of the Larsman, eh Well, no matter, just a pleasure to have the guys show up during daylite hours ‘n your visit kinda provides the capstone!
"At it" again with the security cameras ‘n the Penthouse Suite! <geesh> One day the Larsman is gonna catch ya, then you'll be oh so sorrrrrrrrrrry. <yikes> <uh oh>
You are oh so correct when it comes to inaccuracies being reported in the media. I can't account for how many times I've detected things said or depicted incorrectly on subjects I'm familiar with. Can just imagine how many other stories are skewed in the wrong direction because of PP reporting ‘n insufficient research. <barf> The thing is, once something is "out there," there are those who will "swear by it," even if later on a retraction comes forward. Say it often enough ‘n people buy into it . . . that's POLITICS, for example, fer sure, fer sure! Truth doesn't mean a <censored> thing . . .
Why not establish a PhotoBucket account for yourself as a backup Doesn't cost a thing ‘n at least you'd have a fall back position . . . just a thought.
Many thanx for your <I3 > Post, visit ‘n chat!
Page 54 - Allan <Gunneral> at 10:43 PM <5:53 PM Saturday NZ time>: And our Resident Downunder Kiwi is heard from! What a Friday this has been!
Glad you enjoyed the tale of the JOs aboard the Ocean . . . every now ‘n then <not that often, thankfully> I've encountered some who just can't keep the "volume" down when it comes to "sharing" their knowledge about <aboot for Rob> trains with everyone within ear shot. Drives me to distraction! I'd like to tear our their vocal chords . . . <oooooops> Sorry, I keep forgetting that we're into "touchy feely" in this 21st Century of civilized behavior. Yeah, right . . .
That's REMARKABLE mileage you are getting out of your vehicle . . . better than my bride's hybrid . . .
Makes the old heart beat a bit happier when I see the interaction going on amongst the crew . . . it's precisely what I had hoped for when this joint was begun back on April 12th, 2005. So many have come ‘n gone - some good guys, some not. But through it all, we're still here. Thanx in large measure to support from our current crew I should add!
Many thanx for the FIFER, chat ‘n of course the ROUND!
Page 54 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 11:32 PM: The day just couldn't end without a visit from our Manager, ‘n he didn't disappoint!
Good to see you are on top of Pete ‘n his shenanigans . . . gotta watch that guy, slippery as an oiled eel! <yikes>
Guess my point was, in the span of most lifetimes, we've seen countries come ‘n go - but things like mountain ranges, waterfalls, major rivers, oceans, etc. they remain - all oblivious to the titles bestowed upon them by man. Do you think if there's intelligent life on planet X32R14 that THEY would regard themselves as X32R14ians Doubt <doot> it!
One day, I'd dearly love to travel to the Canadian Shield to stay here ‘n there, viewing that marvelous scenery we saw from the Park car domes up close ‘n personal. A remarkable place, fer sure, fer sure. Wonder if IT know's that it is Canadian <grin>
Many thanx for the fine conclusion to a grand day at "Our" Place . . . didn't expect it to be so active nor did I have an inkling of seeing the Larsman come through those doors - twice in daylite at that!
Good seeing ya!
Seen at our local dry cleaners:
Also seen in downtown Mentor Village:
And finally, at the Can-Am International AeroDrome:
Reminder: Cindy has the bar until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
HAPPY 39TH ANNIVERSARY FOR OUR PLACE, FINEST BAR IN THE ETHER.. Many thanks for the free breakfast.
As you say TOM a really great and special day at the bar yesterday. Well I have quite a few Honey Dos to do but before I get relly stuck into them I thought I would post some photos on the Durango and Silverton Railroad.
At Durango
Shorty after leaving Durango.
Between Durango and Cascade.
# 482 after turning on the Cascade Wye.
Back later.
Pete has been the first "in" with an Anniversary greeting along with a spate o' fotos - with SNOW!
So, in keeping with the "You Post, I Post" idea - here's mine . . . with appropriate "spacing" between Posts of course!
Time again for some shots from the Random Foto Library for this Anniversary Saturday at the Bar by the Ballast . . .
(1) Amtrak's Missouri Mule returning from the Wye at KCity Union Station <trip w/Pete>
(2) College station TTC subway stop <Rendezvous I>
(3) St. Louis light-rail facility from eastbound MetroLink <Rendezvous II>
(4) ARR car #651 of the northbound Denali Star at Anchorage <2006 Alaska Rail Adventure>
(5) Branson Scenic Railway Depot - Branson, Missouri <2007 Fall Get-Away>
(6) From VIA Rail's eastbound Ocean <New Brunswick, Canada>
Enjoy the weekend!
Thirty Nine months of excellence in cyber space for "Our" Place!!
Cindy my fair maiden, you look absolutely stunning on this monthly anniversary day for the finest adult drinking establishment in cyber space! <blush> I'll have a frosty mug of Schaefer along with a heft Larsman hero sandwich of ham, Swiss, mustAHd ‘n buttAH with two extra large ‘n crunchy pickles from the barrel! Ok, ok, Boris - feed the crittAHs ‘n you can have that LARGE jar of pickled pig's feet (PPF) that's got your name on it! And yes - here's a fifty for a round for the regulAHs on this most festive of Saturdays. At the end of your shift, keep whatever change is remaining!
Was touch ‘n go with getting back today, but obviously here I am. Didn't have any difficulties getting onto the forums, but had been wondering. We've been down this road B4, huh
Really liked today's format for the daily acknowledgments! Well done, Cap'n Tom - well done! Got a tickle from those signs, ‘n of course the pix of the interior of the bar along with the Manager's bar (now the Senior Manager's Bar!) was a nice touch!
I must be an OLD TIMER, for I remember seeing ALL of those photos in your latest round of random shots when they were first posted!
Was really impressed with the turnout on Friday, as was Da Bossman. Couldn't have been due to my visits. Nah. I'd chalk it up to circumstance with the stars being aligned just right, or something like that. Was a good day, for sure.
Many thanks for the warm comments made in my direction from the regulAHs . . . it's nice to be missed. Wish it wasn't so. But, many thanks, guyz!
Hey Pete! Even I knew that those diesel boats were purchased USED from England. You must've had one heck of a night before to destroy those brain cells, huh Glad my Brit book covAHs did it for you! Nice to know that one brought back some good memories.
What's with all these references you make to a place called "Pats"?? Thought you were on the payroll here as the Bar Chandler?? Not sure I understand this. Buy beer at the market, keep it in the fridge - or in your case, the oven - ‘n STAY home! Only kidding with ya, of course. I know you Brits ‘n Pubs are like hands in gloves - they go quite well togethAH.
I'll tell ya this, Rob, if sending the Mrs. shopping could "bring her back" I'd gladly part with whatever's left in the bank accounts. Right now she's in one of her more stable periods, thank the good Lord.
Are you referring to Ruth Why, I have no idea what you are suggesting!
Noticed that the fellow from Brantford dropped off a post over on Cap'n Tom's other thread. Not sure why he isn't "sure" about coming here though. Oh well, he's been invited, what else is there one can do He's the one missing out by not coming to this great place for adult conversation ‘n classic trains!
Hey Allan! Thanks for the FIFER - not every day I get a SALUTE like that! Yeah, I miss the joint, ‘n who wouldn't It's as close to a real bar environment one can get without spending lots of cash ‘n winding up with a bang-on headache the next day! <ooooooooooooooh>
Ok Eric, seems that we have to TAWK! Are you telling me that you're back into that Pirating of security images from the Penthouse Suite again I haven't spoken with Guido lately, but he's in charge of making sure "things" remain where they should when it comes to the "happenings" up in the Suite. So, exactly what do you think you obtained
Of course that photo of the NYC in snow was for Da Bossman! Exactly what YOU need - a mound of it, maybe even up to the roof of your house. It can be arranged! Betcha didn't know that Vito owns ‘n operates those snow-making-sheens for the ski lifts. So, should you wake up one night to the sounds of something unusual, don't be surprised if everything is WHITE when you peer outta your window.
Time for my Saturday bunch o' pix from the Larsman Mobile . . . this time I'm going with one for each of the regulAHs at the bar: - Tom - Nick - Pete - Eric - Rob - Allan - Dan ‘n Shane - that's EIGHT!
For Tom:
For Nick:
For Pete:
For Eric:
For Rob:
For Allan:
For Shane:
For Dan:
Enjoy this special day ‘n I hope to be with you again, soon . . .
And then along came our Senior Manager <Emeritus> Lars with another terrific spate of fotos from his Larsman Mobile!
His Post of course, enables me to respond with . . .
A 2nd installment from the Random Foto Library for this Anniversary day at the Watering Hole by the Wayside!
(7) GTR 2-6-0 #713 at ExpoRail railway museum <2007 Canada Rail Adventure w/Pete>
(8) Toronto's Union Station ‘n CN tower <Rendezvous I>
(9) Bridge at Hurricane Gulch, northbound ARR Denali Star <2006 Alaska Rail Adventure>
(10) Westbound VIA Rail F40PHs #6419 & 6418 at Halifax, NS <Nova Scotia trip>
(11) St. Louis riverfront & arch from Illinois bound MetroLink <Rendezvous II>
(12) Chicago's Union Station <trip w/Pete>
A pint of Bathams thatTom is kindly getting to celebrate the 39th month anniversary please CINDY.
ERIC. Real sorry you are not able to post any of your photos yet, I hope Apple can fix the problem soon.
Have been moving things about today, but I will find my notebooks and get a date of the Duchess tour to Carlisle, there is no date on the photo.
Glad you liked the photos it was a good day for taking photos that day on the KATY Trail.
Wish I had thought of the security camera in the Penthouse Suite, with Senior Manager Lars promising a load of snow for you, I would not mind a bit of snow here right now.
ALLAN Yes the Great Western did go in for slip coaches and I think it was as late as the early 1960s that the last one ran, I believe the last one was a coach for Bicester off a Paddington to Birmingham express.
Thanks for the kind words on the photos, yes the Duchess did look really good that day and performed as good as she looked.
I found it very interesting about Newcastle in NSW in Australia; I wonder if any trace of the Geordie accent survived around that region as well.
Hopefully I can get to Pat's to see some of the game, the baseball is due to start before the end though.
ROB Many thanks for the kind words on the photos. Luckily the wildlife was having a day off the day I was there apart from a kamikaze beaver farther up he trail, although the bride ran over a snake once while cycling on the trail.
Yes I guess it would be lucky if any parts of a line closed in 1932 were visible today. There are few parts of old lines in the UK that under road widening now.
Its OK RUTH owes me a bit of time now, as I looked after the bar while she attended to the ‘Admin Duties' with the Senior Manager yesterday.
LARS Really great you were able to come in to the bar today it is real good to see you.
I hope I have cleared up what I meant about those Subs in my reply to Tom.
Yes I don't quite know what it is with pubs and Brits it must be in our genes or something. Must admit though the Our Place beer as never given me a hangover yet.
Many thanks for the great Book Covers. Love the LNER A4 on mine. It is your thoughtfulness in selecting a book for each of us explains part of the reason you are missed so much.
I hope you are able to come to the bar again soon.
TOM Good to see the Senior Manager's private bar again, as you know I am not allowed up there and only see glimpses in the security photos Eric gets hold off.
Goods words about the forum in your reply to Lars.
Not to worry, I am used to the blame for everything at one time if they could have pinned the work's cat getting pregnant on me, they would have done.
Know what you mean about the KATY trail, often coming back from Hermann along 94 I think how great it would be if trains still run on it, though I have to say that I think it is far better the trackbed is a trail than just ploughed under and all the bridges gone and the tunnels blocked off as what as happened to so many closed lines in the UK.
I have a bit of the York railway museum on a DVD you will have to see when you come here next week.
Seems I am causing confusion again (what me). The subs I was asking Fergie about were an earlier class of boat than the one we saw in Halifax, which I believe were very good submarines. I have a link to them.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oberon_class
Loved the signs.
Many thanks for the great two selections of Random Photos. It is hard to tell some were taken from a moving train and all are great enlarged. Do you know if the depot in Branson is an original building.
Well LEON another Bathams please.
Good afteroon Captain Tom and all present!!
Hey Leon, good to see you again. Kind of busy place today? Is that right? The Penthouse Suite?? Hmm. Yeah, I'll have a Filet Mignon with mushrooms, please!
Happy 39th Month Anniversary!!!
The time flies and I am not surprised we've made #39!! That is the light for me this dark day. Apple has managed to screw up almost everything. My sites, my backup and everything else. So I am afraid this will be a ruined Saturday. I am trying to strighte things up, but I don't know if it is possible.
Allan – We will get the heat back by Tuesday/Wednesday. I’ll send it by Air.Slip coach? That is a good name for it! Rob – Some parts of Phoenix and the suburbs were very muddy after all the rain we got. We are promised more of that wet stuff this weekend.Tom – Thanks for the free (kind of late) buffet luncheon and drinks today! I love those signs! Want to go to 202 and/or 35, turn right. But if you want to go with the traffic, that is oneway, turn left.I just had some time over yesterday afternoon and thought it was a good opportunity to visit Our Place. Same thing today! As I’ve mentioned before, I have been interviewed by media a number of times and when I’ve read the article afterwards I have wondered who the heck did they talk to. i didn’t recognize my words. And you are right, it is exactly like Politics! Say one thing and it ends up like something completely different. I have another place where I can and I have photos stored, but I haven’t used it for so long and didn’t think I should have to upload newer photos again. I must say you found some more very good signs! Need a restroom, go toward your behind! A good mix of photos! Not one with snow!!??!! Or is it just a tiny little bit of snow and ice in the photo from the eastbound Ocean? But you have one snowy picture from Alaska, which is just fine. Mt McKinley without snow is not Mt McKinley. ExpoRail is on my list of places I want to go (just like Alaska). Pete – Nice photos from the Durango - Silverton RR! I guess you didn’t ride the train all the way to Silverton. I don’t think they run the trains all the way to Silverton in the winter time. Here is the photo from Durango.Lars – Back again? I guess it only because of a certain female!? Of course we can talk. About the weather? Who said that I took those pictures? I just happened to see them but as a Gentleman I will never tell what they showed. Never! At least not today. I don’t need any of that white stuff. Vito’s machines wouldn’t work in this heat anyway. Maybe it will work at J City, MO?Thanks for the book cover! A very nice picture from yesteryear! If that is supposed to be Arizona it must be close to Flagstaff. Good to see you again!
Well good evening one and all and welcome to the party -would have been in last night to check on preparations but a power cut sent the whole village to bed early (every cloud has a silver lining........ahem...) but enough of that...Gentlemen:-the buffet awaits your attention,for those customers currently in different time zones,please place your orders and the newly TARDIS powered Zeppelin `Draig Goch` will deliver to your door (well,roof actually) almost instantaneously-possibly sooner ( Don`t ask me how that works-I am just content that it does O.K...all I know is it makes strange noises and generates a sort of greeny-purplish light then disappears.......)
Delighted to see a full house of the regulars tonight--Leon,I think a VERY large drink is in order please-for all and sundry--even the galley crew,who have worked ceaselesly all day for your pleasure-as usual loads to comment on (which I will do tomorrow whilst catching up with the week-as is my habit )-A couple of observations however-regarding my post on thursday,when one is seeing two of everything,the wisest course is to go to bed,not (and this is important) open another three beers and bore the company senseless with my witless and paranoid maunderings..............Also,This bar has ,over the course of time,aquired a delightfully international flavour-where else might one learn about Swedish T43 switchers,long gone Irish steam,Mk2 Brit carbodys on Japanese bogies on N.Z rails,obscure Canadian Trolley lines,Teak panelled coaches,German narrow gauge,the glory of the Budd car,the view from the dome,the workhorse beauty of rail blue diesels,the magnificence of sunrise near Edmonton (thought I`d forgotten that one,eh boss ),the complexity of the B&M`s passenger train workings,Canadian power in the raw,Brit power then and now,the fine printed work that brought the rails to the masses-N.Y.C and beyond.....the list goes on :- Were I a magazine editor,I would (to coin a phrase) stomp across a room full of kittens to get a bunch of contributers like you guys --participating in this little place of ours reminds me powerfully of when,as a youth,I first subscribed to a magazine called the Railway Modeller-(the Brits in the company will know the name) back in those days (early `70`s) it was a sufficiently modest circulation that the letters page read like a transcription of the post meeting chat of a large club,a delightfully intimate sort of feel-I always wanted to participate but was aware that I had neither the knowledge nor the experience to contribute-now,nearly 40 years on,I have found an equally satisfying niche-and even better,I can chime in with my 2 pennorth and be taken seriously---Long may we all continue !!!!!!!!!
On a different note,have just had a delightful day out at the National Botanical Gardens,where small monkey Hannah was taking part in an international folk dancing festival-suprisingly interesting,lots of great acoustic music,traditional costumes,different regional & national dancing,a wonderful location--and best of all-it didn`t rain once
Right-back to the galley for me-Leon,break out a couple of bottles of the special rum please and keep these good people topped up `til they drop then organise the Mentor Rickshaw Company to deliver them back to their loved ones..........
Enjoy the night chaps !!!
Speak soon,
To all. A Happy 39th Monthiversary to all of our crew onboard, long may we continue!
Nick. A mighty fine description of what "Our Place" continues to bring to all of us here, you could`nt have explained it any better. This is a real friendly and fun place to be a part of, that's for sure. A great tight AB`s/Boks game last night, a two point win to the Boks, no RED cards at all, but the Boks captain got a Yellow for a high tackle near the end of the match.
Rob. Would love to get a chance to visit your place, will have to keep on buying those Lotto tickets!
Pete. Some fine pix of the Durango and Silverton RR. All the people I spoke with in the Newcastle area of NSW on our last visit spoke with a purely "Strine" (Aussie) accent. What a great tight game last night, that last Boks try was a beauty,scored by the smallest man on the field no less.
Lars. Thanks for that double shot of JD! (Hic) It was great to see you back on board again so soon. Many thanks for the NZ Railway Memories book covAH, I have a copy of it in my bookcase, how did you KNOW that?
Eric. Am keeping an eye out for that heat. Fine pic of the Durango yard area. That was interesting what Pete said about those Slip coaches operating into the early 60`s back in the UK.
Tom. A real fine selection of pix from your Random Foto library for our 39th Monthiversary celebrations. That was a fine description Nick made about our favourite place "Our Place", fits in really well with your philosophy about how you hoped the place would operate. Our car is a 5 speed manual and I cheat a bit by coasting down long hilly sections of the highway at times, not all that legal I suppose, but what the heck!
<approaching Montéal's Central Station - personal foto>
Reminder: "Our" Place is CLOSED on SUNDAYs
<but go ahead ‘n slip your messages thru the mail slots on the doors!>
Yes, Sunday once more ‘n a reminder that we are CLOSED! Just getting some things ready for our 6 AM opening on Monday <all times zones - don't ask how we do that!!>
Many thanx to those of you who took the time ‘n made the effort to visit "Our" Place on our 39th monthly celebration of our opening! Means a lot - and - says a lot for those who care enough to make that small sacrifice in time to share some CHEER amongst the crew!
Page 54 - Pete <pwolfe> at 10:05 AM: Yes, Friday was indeed a surprise with nearly all the regulAHs showing up . . . even had our sailorman "associate" make it thru the doors. Wonders of wonders, eh
A fine spate of FIVE fotos - especially nice with the SNOW!
Never made it to the Durango & Silverton - but one day we are definitely going to! I'd luv to see it in winter - but more than likely we'll visit in the spring . . .
Thanx for kicking off our Saturday with your Anniversary visit!
Page 54 - Lars <LoveDomes> at 1:16 PM: It's almost too surprising to believe - but having our Senior Manager <Emeritus> in the premises on two successive days is - well, hard to believe!
Another wunnerful spate of book covAHS from the Larsman Mobile! Thanx for the GG1 covAH - it's the one that Eric gave to me as a gift at Rendezvous III!
A "neat" idea to put up a covAH for each of the guys . . . who but YOU would think of that I'm sure our GoR really appreciates the time ‘n effort you put in to find ‘em all . . . nicely done! A Five- Salute to our friend, the Larsman!
From the Let's Not Go There Dept.: I don't dwell <any longer> on the "reasons" those who COULD come by, DON'T. It's far better-er to focus on those who DO! I'll NEVER accept the "too busy" excuse - nope, doesn't work for me. It most times means, not interested. Why do I say that Just am a believer in IF one WANTS to, one WILL <in all endeavors, not just the bar>. . . That's pretty much why we see the same core group of people in a community "doing" the things that require extra-effort. Scouting, youth sports, community volunteerism, etc. Just look around . . . Nah, "I'm too busy" just doesn't get it with Moi . . . It's more of an excuse based on feeling guilty than anything else. <barf> Wonder what set me off on THAT, eh
Anyway, this GoR is by far the most inclusive, interesting ‘n informative bunch I can recall at the bar . . . <Nick's comments say it all!> I value each ‘n every one of you not only as patrons of our gathering place, but as friends too!
I surely miss having you ‘round here to "watch my back" ‘n to keep things movin' forward . . . but as the saying goes ‘round here - We takes what we gets!
Many thanx for the visit, covAHs, insights ‘n ROUND along with well wishes for our monthly Anniversary!
Page 54 - Pete <pwolfe> at 5:09 PM: Back as promised with a typical Pete-Post - always in the < I3 > category, fer sure, fer sure!
Don't even wanna know what in the world you are alluding to regarding those Brit subs! I think I shudda stayed out of it - obviously I missed the point entirely. My bad . . . <grin>
Hmmmmm, do I detect a bit o' "woe is me" in your commentary Most times "thems" that has put their foot into "it" should bear the responsibility <aka: blame>! <yikes> But, having said that - I'm not blaming you for a thing . . . you're our most cherished of the lot ‘n one with a terrific sense of humor, good cheer ‘n all ‘round nice guy! So there - feel sorry for yourself over that one!
Yes, yes - let's ensure that we review that York railway museum DVD!
Guess it depends on which side of "it" one is on when it comes to "appreciating" trails as opposed to having the property revert to those with a legitimate claim to it. An awful lot of rail right-of-way was taken from property owners, back in the day, for those rail lines. Seems to me that once the railroads abandoned ‘em, the property should rightfully be returned to those who can legally claim ownership. Otherwise it's surely a breach of contract, or something similar . . . just my point of view.
Glad you enjoy the foto spreads - and yes, over whelming majority of mine are indeed from moving trains. No special "trick" to it - just try to have a steady hand, which doesn't always happen. On the Alaska trip, I took many while standing out on the observation deck, but the train was moving ‘n it was "brisk" out there! <grin> We were oh-so-lucky to have such good weather ‘n visibility conditions at that time of year <so we were told - over ‘n over> . . . to see majestic Mt. McKinley in all its glory on the southbound trip is something that many never get to view. Yes, we surely were most fortunate . . .
Branson Depot is indeed an "original" . . .
Here's the link I provided over at "Our" Place II . . .
http://www.bransontrain.com/depot/depot.htm
Many thanx for the fine chat ‘n ROUND!
Page 54 - Eric <EricX2000> at 6:12 PM <4:12 PM Sandbox time>: Most pleased to see our Sandman arrive during daylite <again>!! Makes for a far better-er opportunity to exchange points of view on this ‘n that . . .
Yes, we do have some "odd" signs sprouting up in ‘n around Mentor Village . . . I'll have to remember to provide some others on our next monthly SELL-A-BRAY-SHUN!
Methinks you are tempting the fates with this "thing" going on between you, the Larsman ‘n the Penthouse Suite! <uh oh> You KNOW that you'll never "catch" ‘em in the act - so to speak! <yikes>
Just a guess, but should the day arrive when Mt. McKinley has no snow or ice atop it, this old world will really be in trouble . . . It's a beautiful sight to see ‘n we were so fortunate to have the visibility ‘n great weather conditions during our trip. We only caught glimpses of the summits <yes, there are TWO> on the northerly run, but as you've seen at the bar, there were some magnificent foto opportunities afforded us during the southbound voyage. As much as we enjoyed that experience - and talk of doing it again - I don't think we will. Imagine the disappointment IF the 2nd trip didn't measure up to the 1st Nah - we had a fine experience ‘n have gobs ‘n gobs of fotos ‘n memories to cherish for years to come . . . Plus, I'm NOT flying that distance unless it's in 1st class - and that's OUT OF THE QUESTION with the fares where they are in these times. A conversation for another place ‘n time . . . . <bratzafratz>
Looks like a bunch of narrow gauge stock at Durango . . . yes, yes - we'll have to make a visit to that place - and sooner, rather than later!
Don't be too confident regarding Vito's Snow Making Mo-Sheens not working in your area . . . that's WHY they make ‘em! I recently saw where one of the oil-rich nations in the middle east are using them for indoor skiing! Vito must be making big bucks, eh And it was only a few years ago when there was a SUMMERTIME promotion for skiing at a local place near here - actually had snow on the trails in hot weather. So, I'd be careful if I were you about being too sure . . . <uh oh>
Many thanx for the < I3 > visit, good cheer ‘n Anniversary greetings!
Page 54 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 8:25 PM <2:25 AM GMT>: What's to say other than "well done" for your thoughts turned to words regarding "Our" Place ‘n what it means to you. Hit the nail on the head, once again, Mate! CHEERS <clink>
How very clever of you to "arrange" for LIGHTS OUT so early in the village - guys just have to do what guys have to do, eh
Noticed that expression "2 pennorth" a few days ago ‘n again yesterday - just had to look it up!
http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/put+in%2fstick+in+two+penn'orth
Now we all KNOW! Figured that's what it meant . . . <grin>
Back to your toast - Long May We All Continue! - well, it takes us all ‘n it takes WILLINGNESS to spare an hour every now ‘n then to make this place work as well as it has. NEVER, EVER take for granted that it will always be here - nope, for my interest in doing what I do is totally predicated on the return on the investment <so to speak> - the guys show interest, ‘n so will I. Pretty simple concept, eh We have a fine group ‘n hope that complacency NEVER sets in . . . we are so few in number, that we cannot spare the loss of even one of our GoR . . .
Thanx for another of your Nick-Speak-Specials - always full of CHEER, smiles ‘n of course a ROUND or three!
Page 54 - Allan <Gunneral> at 10:14 PM <5:14 PM Sunday NZ time>: Very pleased to see that things with your ‘puter Posting Problems < P3 > have been overcome!
An idea! <Pirates of Penzance> We could - by Email - organize a Lotto ticket exchange. Follow me on this . . . if we sent a dollar <or equivalent> to let's say YOU, Nick, Rob ‘n Moi - we could purchase a Lotto ticket in the name of each of the contributors. Should a winner come up - it gets split equally amongst the guys who opted "in." So, what's a buck The postage would probably be MORE! <grin> Of course keeping it done by Email, avoids any confrontations with those who oversee things here in the Ether . . . We could pick a date - well in advance <week of Aug 11th, 18th, etc.> - then get the dollars sent - purchase the Tix ‘n wait ‘n see. Anyone interested If so, SEND me an Email !!!!!
Used to joke about car mileage being so good - especially when going down hill in NEUTRAL with the ignition OFF. <grin> Seems that "someone" has put a part of that into practice! Well, whatever works, eh Our Honda Civic Hybrid gets 43-45 mpg when the bride drives it. Less when I do. <grin> But, it's hers, so perhaps there's a "connection" I'm unfamiliar with. Anyway, the mileage is about 10 mpg LESS than what was advertised on the sticker . . . never, ever achieved that. She drives 50 miles round trip to work, mainly on local roads . . . and we've had the car a bit over 3 years. Volvo wagon gets me 27 <honestly> on highway driving . . . very rarely go anywhere these days <daze> except for my monthly 110 mile round trip to the AFB for commissary shopping <still a retiree benefit that Congress hasn't <yet> eliminated> . . . it's a 5 cylinder V70 model ‘n I am completely satisfied with it, except for the awfully exorbitantly high maintenance charges. <yikes>
Many thanx for your contributions to this Watering Hole by the Wayside. Your Anniversary greetings are appreciated as is your participation ‘n ROUND!
"Our" Place is CLOSED on SUNDAYs
Starting TODAY at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . July 14th thru 20th: Lonesome Dove <1989> Starring: Robert Duvall, Tommy Lee Jones, Danny Glover, Diane Lane & Robert Urich and - ENCORE Presentation of Bound for Glory <1976> Starring: David Carradine, Ronny Cox, Melinda Dillon, Gail Strickland & John Lehne. SHORT - The Three Stooges: Fiddlers Three <1948>.
<Note: Bound for Glory first shown on Sunday Feb 12th thru 18th, 2006>
Lonesome Dove <1989>
PLOT SUMMARY Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones star as Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call, aging cowboys and former Texas rangers and who organize a 2,500 mile cattle drive for one last great adventure in this excellent 1989 miniseries adaptation of Larry McMurtry's novel. The best friends, who steal the herd from a gang of Mexican cattle rustlers, drive their herd from Texas to Montana, battling horse thieves, angry Indian tribes, and a renegade half-breed killer named Blue Duck (Frederic Forrest) on a mission of revenge. The excellent cast also includes Robert Urich as cardsharp and former Ranger Jake Spoon, Anjelica Huston as McCrae's old flame Clara Allen, Danny Glover, Ricky Schroder, Diane Lane, Chris Cooper, D.B. Sweeney, Steve Buscemi, and even a small role for author Larry McMurtry. Australian director Simon Wincer shows a tremendous capacity for balancing sweeping drama and intimacy against the gorgeous landscape of the American Southwest, giving a grandly epic feel to the film despite its small-screen target and limited budget, and for forging memorable characters of even the smallest supporting parts. The heart of the drama belongs to McCrae and Call, memorably etched by Duvall and Jones as the last of the range romantics. In the age of revisionist Westerns, this excellent cattle-drive drama nicely maintains an old-fashioned feeling while still showing the dark side of the American West. Winner of seven Emmy Awards and responsible for two miniseries sequels (Return to Lonesome Dove and Dead Man's Walk) and a TV series. --Sean Axmaker
Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones star as Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call, aging cowboys and former Texas rangers and who organize a 2,500 mile cattle drive for one last great adventure in this excellent 1989 miniseries adaptation of Larry McMurtry's novel. The best friends, who steal the herd from a gang of Mexican cattle rustlers, drive their herd from Texas to Montana, battling horse thieves, angry Indian tribes, and a renegade half-breed killer named Blue Duck (Frederic Forrest) on a mission of revenge. The excellent cast also includes Robert Urich as cardsharp and former Ranger Jake Spoon, Anjelica Huston as McCrae's old flame Clara Allen, Danny Glover, Ricky Schroder, Diane Lane, Chris Cooper, D.B. Sweeney, Steve Buscemi, and even a small role for author Larry McMurtry. Australian director Simon Wincer shows a tremendous capacity for balancing sweeping drama and intimacy against the gorgeous landscape of the American Southwest, giving a grandly epic feel to the film despite its small-screen target and limited budget, and for forging memorable characters of even the smallest supporting parts. The heart of the drama belongs to McCrae and Call, memorably etched by Duvall and Jones as the last of the range romantics. In the age of revisionist Westerns, this excellent cattle-drive drama nicely maintains an old-fashioned feeling while still showing the dark side of the American West. Winner of seven Emmy Awards and responsible for two miniseries sequels (Return to Lonesome Dove and Dead Man's Walk) and a TV series. --Sean Axmaker
<from: amazon.com>
Bound for Glory <1976>
PLOT SUMMARY By strumming his guitar with words of inspiration, Woody Guthrie instilled hope in the hearts of downtrodden Americans everywhere during the 1930s Depression. Now, the extraordinary life of this legendary balladeer and poet is captured in this "elegantly crafted, hugely beautiful and interesting film, which reveals loving integrity in every frame" (Los Angeles Times)! Winner* of two Oscars and starring David Carradine, Bound for Glory features "magnificent cinematography" (New York) and an amazing score adaptation. It's 1936, and the Great Depression is forcing droves of people from the dust bowls of Texas to the alluring green fields of California...and unemployed sign-painter Woody Guthrie is among them. Determined to find a better life out west, Guthrie hitchhikes, hops freight trains and sings his way across America, uplifting the spirits of the poor with his homespun wisdom and fiercely fighting for a better life for all. Featuring classic Guthrie tunes including "This Land Is Your Land," this "moving, inspiring" (The Hollywood Reporter) portrait of an American icon is "one of [the] year's most admirable and triumphant surprises" (Los Angeles Times)! *1976: Cinematography, Music (Adaptation Score)
By strumming his guitar with words of inspiration, Woody Guthrie instilled hope in the hearts of downtrodden Americans everywhere during the 1930s Depression. Now, the extraordinary life of this legendary balladeer and poet is captured in this "elegantly crafted, hugely beautiful and interesting film, which reveals loving integrity in every frame" (Los Angeles Times)! Winner* of two Oscars and starring David Carradine, Bound for Glory features "magnificent cinematography" (New York) and an amazing score adaptation. It's 1936, and the Great Depression is forcing droves of people from the dust bowls of Texas to the alluring green fields of California...and unemployed sign-painter Woody Guthrie is among them. Determined to find a better life out west, Guthrie hitchhikes, hops freight trains and sings his way across America, uplifting the spirits of the poor with his homespun wisdom and fiercely fighting for a better life for all. Featuring classic Guthrie tunes including "This Land Is Your Land," this "moving, inspiring" (The Hollywood Reporter) portrait of an American icon is "one of [the] year's most admirable and triumphant surprises" (Los Angeles Times)! *1976: Cinematography, Music (Adaptation Score)
SHORT: The Three Stooges - Fiddlers Three <1948>
PLOT SUMMARY: Old King Cole grants his three fiddlers permission to marry their sweethearts as soon as Princess Alicia gets married. But the evil magician Mergatroyd arranges for her to be kidnapped, so he can marry her himself and become King, and it's up to the Stooges to save the day!
Old King Cole grants his three fiddlers permission to marry their sweethearts as soon as Princess Alicia gets married. But the evil magician Mergatroyd arranges for her to be kidnapped, so he can marry her himself and become King, and it's up to the Stooges to save the day!
<from: threestooges.net>
Well good evening one and all-just thought I ought to poke my head round the door to make sure all the damage from last night has been taken care of-another wild night............
Since we are closed and there are no staff about there is no way I could possibly organise a tray of beers and a bottle of rum out in the snug and equally,there is no way that any of you could sneak round to the back door and slip in to join me in a glass or two.........
Right-having got that established,lets settle down and enjoy a little warmer,just to help us all sleep....have got a video or two on which I would value your collective opinions-we are staying with the Brit theme here,-`Oh Mr Porter` followed by `The Titfied Thunderbolt `-not setting us up against the Emporium (have read all of McMurty`s books-particulaly fond of Famous Shoes,the native tracker and anything with Woody (or Arlo ) Guthrie has my vote.........)
Right-I mentioned in last nights diatribe how I felt a connection with the old R.M. magazine here-the one thing that is missing is the `plan of the month`-a feature that as a youth I used to look forward to...sometimes it would just be the one station,sometimes it would be a whole layout-either way it would be a pointer as to how one should go about building a layout that looked like the real thing as opposed to just a train set-I wonder if there is any place here for that-perhaps on wednesday,being as how this is Pikes Perspective day ??--I have a 101 track plans,many of which I have yet to try building---perhaps some of you have ideas that you might like to share---it`s easy to do,just draw it out on a sheet of paper ,scan it in and post it same as you would a pic....-no worries,I have enough ideas to keep us going for a while.......
Now then,I was going to take care of post tonight but it`s got late early-looks like it`s me for bed before I make a fool of myself again-gonna be a long day tomorrow-I have at least got all my notes taken and ready.......
sleep well one and all--last one out please lock the door--have a productive start to your week
A.T.B
Well good evening everyone.My normal Sunday evening rounds to do some paperwork.I see that Nick's laid out a tray of beer so I'll join him ( mercifully it's not the heated kind )
Tom-It wa so nice to see a solid group of support for a Saturday.Myself I spent the whole day in Toronto.Heather and I took in a concert ( one of her Christmas preasants from last year )Suffice to say we made a day of it ( by train of coarse )a great time ahd by all as we saw our favourite Newfie band
Loved both collections of random shots from yesterday.Not to beat a dead horse but to add to your musings of named things of nature. the Canadian Shield is also known as a re-Cambrian Shield ( I wonder if it knows or cares about that )I wonder what number we have given to us by the X32R14'ians
As to Pete well lets just say that Guido's kind of an Italian Santa Clause,he see's everything <uh oh >
More A1 flicks for this week at the emporium as well I'll have to contemplate your altest suggestion,will get back to you soon.
Lars-Great to see you in for a twofer ( two days in a row ) I know that it can't always happen but it's great to know that you still have our backs thank-you for your thoughtfull bookmobile submissions as well.All were good one's.Good to hear that things are on a fairly even keel for you guys right now.Here's hopping it continues on for a good while
I don';t know whats up with the guy from Brantford.Hopefully he gets over his shyness. H&H will heal anyone of that to be sure.
Pete-Hmmm I don't think Ruth owes you the favour. Her time off yesterday was sanctioned.The fine print of the chandlers contract says that you fill fill in on Ruth 's paper work as needed or desirted by either the owner , manager,or Sr manager emertitus ( and for no higher rate of pay either )grievences can be heard on the 8th day of the 53rd week of any calender year,unless it falls on a public statutory holiday. Don't you love Guido's fine print,and yes Tom likes using Guido's legal document writing services.their logan is "No Loop hole is too big to slip a pair of Cement shoes on"
Loved the shots form the Durango,cooled us down a good ten degrees looking at them.
To answer your sub question ( I think ) the last of the three was retired in 2002.The one you saw alongside was likely the old HMS Olympus which was bought in the mid nineties as a stationary alongside trainer.
Also how do you know that the beaver was a kamikaze ?
Eric-Mud you say, that must have confused a few people.
Nick-As always a fine bit of writing from you yesterday. I can't think of a better toast or a better or more apt description of our little piece of the ineternet. I'm wondering when Miss Nick and the young one were over earlier did they make it out as far as Burlington Ontario and the RBG ( Royal Botanical Gardens )
Hearing you mention the older modelling mags,takes me back to soem of the one's I've enjoyed over the years. I had on occation bought the odd copy of that one at a store in my hometown that use to import a huge selection of British magazines.Alas the owners moved back to the UK about ten years ago.I haven't found near the selection since,however yesterday when we were in Toronto we went to the World's Biggest Bookstore which is just up from the Eaton Center and I found a huge cache of Continental magazines including two I had subsciptions to years ago. I splurged and bought a copy of two of them ( $12 CDN each ) but they brought back memories and rekindles some old hobby loves of mine <groan> like I needed iit .
Allan-We would love to have you and host you.Keep buying those lottery tickets
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