Hi Tom and all,
The usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please Leon!
Pete. Watched that drawn 1st cricket test England versus South Africa, the pitch at Lords was really flat, the last six games there have ended in draws`. Some fine shots of LMS 4-6-0 No 45337, the two Kirkwood museum ones`, and the superb Mallard pix were top notch, definite "keepers for sure!
Rob. Some very fine trolley and club layout shots from you. Bought an extra Lotto ticket today!
Eric. Thanks for sending all that heat at no extra charge! All of our NZ postal rates` went up last month as well. Interesting comparison shots of those two bogies`.
Nick. Best of luck with your rehearsals of the seven new songs. Those were some nice Welsh Rly pix of yours over on the other thread. The Kiwi fans were not impressed at the AB`s losing to the Boks, at least the Ref was`nt blamed for their loss this time.
Tom. The brewery company that is the parent of the Tui brand was taken over by Heineken a few years ago, they have`nt changed any of our favorite local brews, YET! We can give them a big THANK YOU for the introduction of our famous Tui gals` at least! A really fine lot of Heralds, Drumheads, Ad`s, Covers n` Stuff on the three New England RR`s in Part #5 and also all the RR Ad`s of the Classic Era, and a mighty fine selection of pix from your train layouts. I think i`ll take up that free offer of the computer course at Molly Throttlebottoms Adult Learning Centre ASAP, will Boris be around to Chaperone at all?
See ya, Allan
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Bathams please RUTH, I see I am getting all the beers today so drink up lads.
TOM Many thanks for the new edition of the Heralds, Drumheads, Ads, Covers and Stuff featuring three New England Railroads. It seems the Maine Central did not suffer the dire financial problems of the other two. Interesting motive power on the Boston & Maine Volume 3 book cover. It is amazing the number of lines there were in the Central Vermont area in that 1901 timetable map.
Glad you liked the photos, Eric has come up with that vehicle at the MOT. What's the betting that somewhere someone has a locomotive firebox door as a fireplace.
I think with a high-speed line it almost has to be a complete new construction with no grade crossings at all.
I shall look forward to seeing that article from the St Louis paper, perhaps the tide is turning a bit with the attitude to the Amtrak service here.
I will have to stop tuning pages and clocking up the 100 number replies at the bar, my poor bar tab at least the paper industry are happy about it.
Many thanks for the photos from your layouts, with the great Berkshire and the S-Capades to the snowy scenes on the Can-Am. Great photo of the line of Canadian diesels in their different liveries, two trains with dome cars and the VIA Rail F units waiting to take over the next incoming train. Noticed the RDCs passing Mentor Mountain.
Really enjoyed those RR Ads from the classic era. Those ones from mainland Europe really have that classic 1930s feel to them, but the favorite as to be the Wills one. It will be interesting to see what Nick and DL think to the train. To me it could resemble the 800 Maeve class of Ireland or a LB&SCR locomotive hauling Great Western coaches.
ERIC Real glad you house was OK after that very heavy rain you had.
I bet that is some good video footage you are going to transfer to DVD. Some day in the future I am hoping to travel the full length of the line to Silverton, it sounds an interesting town to visit.
Thanks for the info on the Baldwin Inspection locomotive, trust me to get a photo of the rear end. I see in the guidebook it is the only surviving steam inspection locomotive and dates from 1889.
It seems VITO's empire is growing by the day, which is a bit worrying.
It is good news a light rail system is being built not too far from your house.
Many thanks for the photos showing the difference in bogie design over the years, is the second one under a tank wagon.
NICK Many thanks for the warning about the virus.
Yes the Brains SA was on top form thanks.
The county across the river here was known as the Kingdom of Callaway, as during the Civil War they declared independence from the state of Missouri. I believe they have an annual festival with a King And Queen; perhaps I could get the job
I think DL knows quite a lot of details on the APT. I think at the time as well there was some reason why there had to be the power car in the center of the train, meaning basically it was two trains, each needing its own food facilities etc. I recall one press run from Glasgow the APT only reached Carstairs, about 20 mile south of Glasgow when the brakes froze on, but it was a very cold day and the older trains were having problems that day.
Yes a Duchess on the Pines Express. I can almost hear her climbing the Mendips now, with 14 on without the aid of a pilot engine.
I dare say in BR days the Duchesses were banned from the S&D on weight grounds, but seeing today locomotives venturing where they were not allowed in steam days, EG Kings and Castles to Carlisle, I am sure if the S&D had survived it would have been possible to see one on the line. Quite possibly there would have been a regular steam hauled train over the S&D in the summer months, like of the West Highland Line in Scotland and for the last couple of years on the Cambrian Coast.
I shall very much look forward to your photos of the Duchess on the re opening day gala. Do they still do those miniature named train headboards to fit to locomotives, that I think Hornby done in the 1960s
Waitresses dressed as beavers, H&H have taken that to heart I can hear the sound of sewing machines now.
ROB That Sperry cars does have the look of an older vehicle about it I will check their web-site and see if there is some info on it.
If I ever do get to your area, a trip on 327 and the other cars would certainly be a treat. I will have to make an effort a see if I can travel on the tramcars and take some photos in Blackpool when I am over in England.
Luckily they have not put me under at the dentists yet but I will bear in mind about H&H if they ever try to.
Thanks for the kind words on the Mallard photos; it was a good bright day to take the photos.
Many thanks for the great photos of the club layout, that is a great model trestle it must have taken a lot of work to construct.
Glad you are enjoying the beers, it seems as though the track gang have wind of the free day so I will be busy tonight.
Well RUTH a bit more of that Brains SA that Nick brought please.
Pete.
G'day Gents!
Ahhhh, a visit from our Manager on this hot, hot, hot day in mid-continent USA - but not bad in Mentor Village, Can-AM County! <grin> Thanx for the mid-day "boost" ‘n helping to "abuse" Wolfman Day at the bar!
Just returned from filling up 3 gas cans for the mowers ($52) 'n top off the buggy for tomorrow's trip ($32 for 4 gallons). Now that'll put a dent in most men's wallets, eh Yeah, I know -it's bad all over - except in those places on the receiving end of the payments for that black gold . . . <geesh>
On to better thoughts . . . now that an hour has elapsed 'n it's safe to go back "in" <grin>
Here's one from the not-too-distant past found in the sub-basement archives . . .
Now Arriving on Track #1
Six Pack Special Number Six
RR advertisements from the Classic Era
<Initially Posted on 05 Nov 2007, Page 136 at "Our" Place II>
Montserrat - Euro
Orient Express - Euro
Main Line Flake - Euro <this one ALWAYS gins up some conversation!>
Pullman - Euro
Etoile du Nord - Euro
Exactitude - Euro
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy!
Tom
Good afternoon Ruth my dear. Looks like business is a bit slow,however since it's Wolfman's day and the tab is his for the day lets abuse it somewhat shall we. I think we will break out the vintage CR and celebrate with several rounds <kaching kaching> oh and some of that fine Czech pilsner that just got brought in as well <kaching kaching > looks like the ole bar tab is resembling a very full and fat roll of paper toweling again,so much for it not resembling a mortgage. Vito is pleased
Tom-Great reminicences of the days of yore and the various scouting and baseball activities.Nice to know that even with your busy job you were able to spend that much with your kids.That's the diference between the generations,your kids got it and appreciated what they had and what you did for them.Today they just expect it <barf> I know Boris I'm too ring up a round on me as well.
Nice shots from the trainroom as well. Nice looking retired equipment in the place of honour
I've been hearing more and more about our local and provincial polititions have been seriously concidering tolling all the 400 series highways again,in effort to reduce the cars too and from Toronto.No clear plan on extending the GO and VIA sched's though.
Pete-Great shots of the Mallard.Looks better in your pictures than teh one I've got on a coffee mug does. Hopefully the second national bank does not want instant payback on today's additions to your tab.
Let see since it's Wednesday,lets put up some of the club shots that you have seen before.
enjoy
Rob
<our first RR BOOK RELAY!>
Good to see our Bar Chandler "in" a bit on the early side - two days running where he's begun the daylite for us! Also noted a Page turned to 56!
AND you Posted the 1100th REPLY here at "Our" Place III! Now THAT's worthy of note . . . by the power invested in me as Proprietor of this Bar by the Ballast, I hereby proclaim this day as Wolfman Pete Day, with all drinks on HIM! <grin> Ring the bell LOUD 'n OFTEN, Boris! <cheers> <clink>
It's Wednesday which means: OP-SHUN-UL Toy ‘n Model Trains Day!
Thought I'd drop off some RANDOM FOTOs of my toys ‘n models . . .
(1) A beautiful LIONEL Berkshire on the O-gauge Polar Express Shelf System in my Can-Am Trainroom!
(2) Motive power of the S-Capades ceiling suspended S-gauge layout in the Can-Am Trainroom "annex" <aka: storage room!>
(3) Generations of trains called "The Canadian" ‘n "Canadian" on the HO Can-Am Railway!
(4) Three generations of Park Cars <obs domes> on the HO Can-AM Ralway at Can-Am City's Union Station!
(5) Retired passenger railroads from previous pikes in the Can-Am Trainroom!
(6) Northbound BC Rail RDCs beneath majestic Mt. Mentor on the HO Can-Am Railway - mountain division!
A bacon sarnie and a cup of coffee please RUTH
Own up time, Despite DL's great description of seeing the 70th anniversary runs of Mallard run on July 3rd 1938 I forgot to post these photos on the date.. Anyway these photos were taken on July 3rd 1988 when A4 Mallard first a ran only a few main line tours to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her world record speed run on Stoke Bank.
The photos are a bit simular but I thought I would share them with you.
Mallard get ready to take over the special train. Note the first generation and one of the then fairly new Sprinter class 150/2 DMUs in the sidings of Doncaster Works, Mallard's birthplace.
I think this was Mallards first passenger train since she was withdrawn for Preservation around 1964.
These photos were taken just north of Doncaster station.
Back later.
Pete
<approaching Montéal's Central Station - personal foto>
Wednesday's Witticism
Never pack a 6-gun with 6 pills in the wheel. If you can't do the job with 5 shots, it's time to get the hell out of there.
It's Wednesday - half-way mark of the work week <for many> ‘n a great time to begin the day with us! Fill up those mugs with our freshly ground ‘n brewed special blend coffee - check out The Mentor Village Bakery Case ‘n of course order a selection from our Menu Board's <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts!
Comments from the Proprietor
HEAD's UP!
I'm scarce from Thursday mid-morning ‘til Friday afternoon of this week . . .
Also, our Manager sez he'll be gone from the bar from Saturday the 19th thru Wednesday the 22nd . . .
CM3 Shane should be back at the bar on Thursday the 17th or Friday the 18th . . . I think!
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative):
Tuesday - July 15th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 55 - Pete <pwolfe> at 9:23 AM: Gotta be a "first" to have the Wolfman begin our day for us <during daylite!> He CAN do it, eh <grin>
Smart looking tender behind that 4-6-0 in your foto! Always impressed with the great looking condition of the equipment in your country - speaks highly for those who give a Rat's Patoot about <aboot for Rob> those maintaining the trains.
That IS an odd-looking "farkle" in your 2nd foto - hmmmm, there's a descriptive sign - hmmmm, we'll have to make an effort to find it ‘n foto the SIGN!
Now #3 could be something for the family room of the man who has EVERYTHING - what a "conversation starter" with a fireplace like that, eh
Many thanx for the early AM visit <for you> ‘n fotos!
Page 55 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 10:49 AM: A-Rod compensation, hmmmmmm Does that include some "quality" time with the babes he's purportedly runnin' with <uh oh> Nah, I'll "stick" with the Tui Brewery Gals . . . now THOSE are much more to my liking! <pant> <pant>
You are right on the money when it comes to at grade right-of-way . . . unfortunately, that cannot always be accommodated, especially in urban areas where infrastructure sets up a nightmare in construction costs, etc. I've told the story <too many times> of our less than 8 mile extension of MetroLink that was projected at $404 million, coming close to doubling that figure at project completion. Most cost overruns had to do with infrastructure obstacles . . . and tunnels cost a bunch. <yikes>
Carnivorous hamsters on a ball connected to the axle . . . hmmmm, only a sick-o could n would come up with something like that! <grin>
Random shots most pleasing to the eye - thanx!
Appreciate the AM visit, twenty for the "fund" ‘n chat to help keep things on a roll during the daylite hours!
Page 55 - Pete <pwolfe> at 2:04 PM: Consider your calendars as "secular" ‘n "non secular" . . .
Well, you know the saying, "If wishes were horses . . . " - we'd be able to connect all the major cities across the land with modern, safe, reliable ‘n fast trains! It's way past due to rid ourselves of the technology of back in the day ‘n really get into the 21st Century. How many horse drawn carriages are there for hire these days <daze>
I've seen the MoDot maps of the highways ‘n "possible" right-of-way for hi-speed rail in our state. Admittedly it's been several years - but sure appeared that we have a bunch o' problems called grade crossings that would make the costs simply astronomical. Even using Interstate 70 isn't as "simple" as one might think - after all, that highway is antiquated as we speak. Didjano there's a plan gathering dust to construct an east-west toll road across the state Now that would be an idea for inclusion of an easement for hi-speed rail. But, what do I know . . . <grimace> <groan> <bratzafratz>
Figured you'd get a lot out of that hi-speed series I ran on Monday . . . some good stuff, fer sure, fer sure!
Our local paper <aka: bird cage liner> ran an article <with fotos!> of Amtrak's trains to KCity from here. I'll give you the section when we get together later this week . . . it's interesting. Been awhile since that paper ran anything even close to positive regarding passenger rail service in Missouri!
Every now ‘n then I think it's time to bring back The Mentor Village Gazette - then quickly put it aside, as it takes far too much effort for the return gained. ‘nuf said . . .
Many thanx for your fine < I3 > Post, 2nd visit o' the day ‘n ROUND!
Page 55 - Eric <EricX2000> at 3:12 PM <1:12 PM Sandbox time>: And along comes the Sandman with another of his < I3 > Posts ‘n good cheer! But this time, for LUNCH! How unusually, but how nice for us, eh
Email received ‘n responded to - thanx!
Rain, mud, humidity Doesn't sound like the desert to Moi! This old world is full of suprises, eh I'm always astounded at how little the nations of the world DO with regard to sending water to where it's needed. We have the technology to convert sea water to drinking water <ask any sailor!> - aqueducts are as innovative as the mind permits - so why aren't the parched portions of our landscape provided with water No PROFIT in it for the desalinization ‘n aqueduct people, that's why! Government is too bogged down in their never ending game of <gotcha> to come up with sustainable remedies to really HELP people. <bratzafratz> <barf> <arrrrggggghhhh> Yeah, yeah, I know Boris, I'm - ring the bell ‘n let's give ‘em all a ROUND on the Proprietor! <groan>
Odd how we associate our businesses with "belonging" to this or that country, eh It's as natural to do that as breathing, I suspect. I'm sure the Swedes weren't tickled over Ford acquiring the Volvo car division anymore than the UK was thrilled with losing Jaguar or other fine cars to foreign interests. But through it all, seems to come down to a reality - it's business, plain ‘n simple - just business. That's what is going on in sports - that's what is happening all ‘round us - business. It's their money <and the shareholders> I suppose the rest of us simply have to "take what we gets," eh But, I don't like it either! What Who rang that bell Ohhhhhhhhhhhh, not again, Boris!! Awwwwright, one more ROUND - I did it again. <geesh>
I recall hearing that when gasoline reached the five dollar mark, Congress would finally get a move on with regard to improving our dilapidated railroad system in this land. If what they've shown the past 10 years has any bearing on tomorrow - I'd say petrol will have to reach 25 bucks before they even recognize the problem. <arrrrrggggghhhh> No, no, no - don't touch that bell, Boris or you'll be a sorry Cyclops! <grrrrrrrr>
Thanx for your visit - those two fotos are quite interesting. Care to let us know where they were taken ‘n what the differences are Hmmmmm.
Page 55 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 4:33 PM <10:33 PM GMT>: RR BOOK RELAY 2008! Urgent Message for Pete . . .
Page 55 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 7:49 PM <1:49 AM Wednesday GMT>: Back with a Nick Special - super-fine < > Post in Nick-Speak!
Utterly amazing story regarding the tilting sickness - all "news" to me. Yeah, I'd be ‘spittin' mad, to say the least at the way it all unfolded to resolve. <geesh> So, the guys who wrote all of this up were wined, dined ‘n feated - got themselves a snoot full - wound up heaving into the wind ‘n blamed it on the TRAIN!!!! <censored>
Surely sounds to me as you ‘n Missinick are in "that" stage of your young ‘uns life where it is ALL a joy to behold. Yeah - you hit it on the head, my little girl was doing her level best, whereas the rest of her orchestra fell just a tad short! Kinda like when marching - it's "them-uns" who are outta step, Sarge - not me! <grin>
Brief comment on the Scouting program <Boy Scouts for me ‘n my sons; Girl Scouts for my daughter>. It was a "trip" - all of it. Best memories of my youth are entwined ‘round Scouting. Won't "brag" on merit badges ‘n ranks - suffice it to say, it was good for me ‘n mine!
Far to much to digest all in one nite for Moi - as "catch ups" generally are - but surely appreciate having you with us ‘n many thanx for the ROUND!
Page 55 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 11:39 PM: A nite-cap from our Manager along with a chat full o' good cheer!
Quite surprised ‘n pleased that things are still perking along - especially during daylite. We've got a few more "tests" ahead with Eric ‘n Pete scheduled for looooooooong absences in the months ahead . . .
Very admirable characteristic of those who take the time ‘n make the effort to volunteer their time for the benefit of our youth . . . Been there, done that with youth baseball, Cub ‘n Boy Scouts . . . Had a couple of baseball teams 'n was Assistant Scoutmaster for a couple of troops along with being a male "Den Mother" . . . Couldn't find even ONE mom to oversee the den . . . happens.
At this writing <early AM> the baseball All-Star game FINALLY ended - it was a loooong nite for Moi - AL did it again. Both sides had their chances. Quite a good game in many respects ‘n this one had all kinds of good things to take in with the festivities before the game. Not bad . . . next year it is here. Just try ‘n get a ticket! Yeah, sure.
A ROUND for the boyz along with a fine < I3 > Post - what's better ‘n that, eh
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Thursday is Fish ‘ Chips Nite!
Friday 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!
Good evening Leon. Looks like I have a couple drinks to <hic> enjoy as Nick's bought us a round and Tom did earlier as well. At any rate I shall buy a round for the gang as well so a good evening should be had by all <hic>.
Tom-Loved today's hearalds. I have to say that I ahve always liked the area of New england at it's many colourfull RR's. The B&M and MEC are two favourites. I have a wonderfull ahrdbound book called RR's of The Pine tree state which covers all the Maine roads major and minor worth a buy if you can find it.
Good to hear that things went well for you today,and no worries about us pitching in it's what friends and loyal,barflies do.
Pete-remind me to bring beaver repellant ( courier de bois outfit ) if I ever make it to your neck of the woods,I don't think I want to deal with the derranged kamikaze versions of the rodents you guys seem to be growing down there.
I ahve a feeling that the Sperry car was liely converted from an old gas/electric of some kind. They have a lot of self propelled vehicles some purpose built and others are conversions. I'm guessing that their website may shed some light on their fleet.Glad you approve of 327 it's a fan favourite to be sure. If you get up here ever again we'll make sure that you get several rides on both our large and small witt's and 327
I would always check at the dentist office before they put you under as to who is hiding under the face mask it may indeed be one of our teutonic wonders. You know how they like their form fitting leather nurse outfits
Eric-Good to hear you weren't washed away or sucked down to the deapths by the sandI liked the two photo's from today one nice old arch bar truck and a modern roller bearing one.There's a good possibility that both were built buy the same factory decades apart.
Toornto has two PCC's used for charters only,they do have a couple that got changed to subway profile wheelsets with third rail pickup that are used for maintenance crews and rail grinding in the tubes.
Good to hear that extentions are already in the works for your light rail.Maybe you could take on a third career as an operator,seeing as you are only 27++
Nick-Uh-Oh the young one's carrer as an entertainer might just eclipse yours.Still if she hits it big she can keep you in the life that youa re acustomed to.
The scouting movement both boys and girls is one of the more rewarding things and good building blocks for normalcy in kids as far as social skills go. It's too bad that there seems to be less and less kids doing it anymore. Heather stopped her leader chores because the troops kept shutting down for lack of kids.Unfortunalty vodeo games and cell phones and shopping are more important to the kids of today <barf>
Well folks I'm off and running again.Catch you in the daylight.
Well good evening gentlemen all-I trust the week is dealing kindly with you (esp. PETE,the new crown prince of Mentor ).
Leon-set `em up for the boys please old thing-there`s a keg of Brains S.A under that cloth at the end of the back counter that should be just about perfect by now,so lets have a look at it.....
Right,am several days behind again so straight to catch-up:-
ALLAN-Sounds like the rugby was a mighty battle-shame the wrong team won -interested to learn that the X.P.T`s have different coaches-only examples I have seen are the LIMA models,which are obviously just repaints for the export market.....
ROB-The only `shots` which could make Steve socially acceptable are hollow-point .45`s-and I speak as a dear friend,fellow musician and best man at his wedding.........Delighted to hear that Heather is a Brownie-friendly person-my sis was pretty tight with the Metro district commissioner at one time-in fact I think she might hold some sort of honourary post still-was involved with organising some exchange visits with the local troupe-various links here too complex to address.....Must admit I enjoyed my time as a scout hugely-the only uniform I have ever taken pride in-was not only senior patrol leader but the only one in the troop to attain any badges ( orienteering,hand axe & knife,fire lighting & camp cooking-nothing to do with Graham Kerr...)--Small Hannah is off to her first Brownie camp this weekend-much excitement-not least `cos it means I can have a few drinks at our C&W gig on sat.pm then go onto an all-night loony party with some old friends of ours that we see far too rarely....hubba hubba oink !!!!
ERIC-Appreciate your thoughts R.E cameras-I suspect that an upgrade might be in order-not sure if this will require new software or not-currently we are using a FUJI finepix A34-would prefer to stay with the same basic `house` system and just upgrade the camera if poss.-we shall see............
TOM-Trust me my friend-your daughter was playing her clarinet perfectly in key-it was the rest of the band that were out-As a parent I know these things -whilst on this theme-Small Hannahs school have just released a disc of all the kids and teachers singing everything from `Mama Mia`to various Welsh language chapel songs-lovely-my mum plays it constantly-imagine my gall-30 years in the business and my daughter gets an album out before I do -and doesn`t she let me know it...........
Jumping out of sequence-your post on high-speed trains--watched a prog. last week about the A.P.T-gist of it was,was killed by the media-explanation:-whole project was underfunded from day 1-no suprises so far-was pushed into launching before full testing carried out (if I have it right,the design team for the original tilting mechanism were kicked into touch and a new system brought in at the last moment-perhaps the boys can comment here)-the early tests revealed a phenomenon known as `tilt-sickness`-a variant on sea sickness,related to the middle ear-B.R were desperate for some good P.R and pushed for public trials-these took place in extremely cold weather,the tilting mechanism worked-but very jerkily-all the journalists had been wined & dined (with the emphasis on the former) the previous night and were all sick as dogs -the resultant bad write-ups pretty much killed the project.........Now we have loads of tilting trains-all built in Italy to more or less the original design-the guys who first came up with it are suprisingly sanguine about it all.........I would be mad enough to stomp kittens,but thats just me...........
DAN-Footpaths-there`s a clue in the title really-fully agree with the `right to roam` act but I don`t think it included bloody great 4x4`s really-have a note here about Mk 2`s & 3`s but is several days old so will have to refer back........
FERGIE-The matter of the 2nd hand subs is no place for levity on my part,after all,good people died for no good reason--shame on us Brits is my take here-we let you down after all you have done for us.........On the matter of Euro stock that hasn`t made the grade over there-how about the Ontario Northlands use of the former T.E.E sets-not exactly a conspicuous success.....P.S-Have a safe trip mate
PETE-Lovely pics of the Duchess -just imagine what she would have looked like leading a Bournemouth-Bath summer saturday excursion through the Mendips.......It just so happens I have one in my model fleet and she will take the first up express on the re-opening day gala (and the Bulleid pacific will take the first one down )...........
AND HERE IS OUR MANAGER EMERITUS AND ALL ROUND GOOD-EGG-----SIR LARS(cacophony of trumpets etc) Delighted to see you dear boy-glad the boys have prevailed on you to take some time for yourself-is most important-carers need time to care for themselves-is not selfish -is just recharging the batteries ready to dive back into the fray--Our thoughts remain with you mate -hold the line my friend...
Right-here my notes get a little vague...
I have:- PETE-freight,M.O.W (anything),Durango------free beer for anyone who can put context to that.............
Also TOM-LAR`s private bar and `signs`-well that makes a bit more sense -I do remember the wonderful assortment of contradictory signs and a vision of a softly lit cocktail bar-although for some reason all the waitresses are dressed as beavers-not at all sure about that bit.................
HMMMMMMMMMMMM....................................
Well Leon-please give these good people another drink on my tab-I must away since I have 7 new songs to learn ready for practice tomorrow in advance of saturdays show (an afternoon performance at Ferryside carnival )-will be taking the camera as this is one of the places where the main line runs along the side of the sea in dramatic style and also still has a lever-frame box controlling semaphore signals-will take the timetable and try and catch a train or two,if possible.....Also,will chance my arm and try the track plan idea tomorrow-just to see if anybody bites-will start with 3 prototype examples:- Seaton in Devon,Ashburton,also in Devon & Bled Jezero in Slovenia for contrast-
Right then me darlins`-be lucky and/or happy-ideally both,see you tomorrow
QUICK HIT for Nick!
An Email has been sent to you, Pete 'n Eric regarding the RR BOOK RELAY 2008!
Let's continue this by Email . . . THANX! Unless of course you've lost the capability <yikes> . . .
`Scuse the quick hit`n`run guys....urgent heads up for PETE:-got an E-Mail from U.P.S earlier about some delivery that they were unable to make `cos of a problem with the senders address,assume this must be the book relay-problem is,when I tried to open the attachment with details my anti-virus program tripped and locked the whole thing out-If it was the book,you will need to trace it from your end-but BEWARE OF GREMLINS make sure you are protected before opening anything--good luck,
Back in a bit
Good afternoon Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Ruth, my dear, how nice to see you this sunny day! A 34 special would be perfect. Yes, a Tuborg Gold, please!
Stopped by to get a good lunch. Kind of a slow day today in this part of the world. Not too hot but very humid so it feels pretty bad outside.
Pete – I am sure I will get things about my photos straightened out but it will probably take a few more days. Where we live we got about 2” of rain last Thursday night and the backyard was kind of flooded (couple of inches) for a couple of hours but it never reached the house. Last dump of rain did not hit our area, it was east/southeast of where we live. We just got maybe 1/10 of an inch. So Durango was where you saw the first steam locomotive in steam in the US? Not a bad place for that event. I have some video of the train coming in to Durango and also from Silverton. I am going to transfer it to DVD’s. A good snowfall? How can a snowfall be good? Hmmm, you have listening to Tom too much when he is talking about snow and ice. The vehicle you can’t find in the guide book is at the bottom of page #23. It is a steam inspection locomotive built by Baldwin 1889. You tok a picture of its rear end, in the guide book the front end is shown. I guess it was a good thing Big Boy was fed by a stoker. Nice photos! Ah, I never thought about it! But now when you mentioned it I checked and those archived photos from the Penthouse Suite are gone!! Hmmm, that is strange, isn’t it? Where is Vito? You are right, it is expansive to eliminate grade crossings. That is why it has taken so long in Sweden to get rid of them. They are still working on it.I am sure the new high speed line between Stockholm and Gothenburg will be built.Email received, will respond later tonight.Allan – I’ll see what I can do about sending the heat. The postage went up recently, but I’ll send what I can get. Tom – As I mentioned to Pete, we got 2” inches of rain last Thursday, but since then we have been on the edge of the storms. I saw on the news this morning how the cities in the valley are cleaning up all the mud deposited on roads and streets. Let’s hope AB will continue opeating the same way it always has under the new ownership. But I still don’t like it. Calendar makers and God? I don’t know, but I remember when I grow up calendars in Sweden all had Sunday as the first day of the week. I think it was in the 60’s they changed to having Monday as the first day. We’ll see if the high gas price will help creating any high speed corridor through Missouri and other states. I am afraind the gas price is not going to drop much in the future, maybe down to about $3/gallon. Rob – A flooded backyard for a few hours was not too bad, so we are not complaining. At least the house is still dry inside. Too bad I can’t show any new photos right now, we went to an event last weekend where they celebrated that the construction phase of our new light rail system is almost completed. In August they will start training operators. The first light rail vehicle made it to downtown Phoenix with some invited passengers a couple of weeks ago. Thanks for the info on the CLRV’s! If they are maintained properly and updated they will last forever. Any PCC’s still in operation or are they used only on special occasions? The good thing is that they will start building an extension early next year less than a mile from our house. A couple of photos.
A few years apart!!
Eric
I'm baaaaaaaaaack ‘n happy to have that round of places to go over with! <phew> Hot out there - summer has come back! <groan>
Really a treat to see Pete - Rob ‘n Pete <again> answering the call! Means a lot, guys - thanx! Have a fill-up on Moi! <clink>
Now to something not seen at the bar before . . . another threesome from my series of Heralds - Drumheads - Ads - Covers ‘n Stuff!
Now Arriving on Track Number One
Heralds - Drumheads - Ads - Covers ‘n Stuff #5
Boston and Maine Railroad
The Boston and Maine Railroad (AAR reporting marks BM), also known by the abbreviation B&M, was the dominant railroad of the northern New England region of the United States for a century. It is now part of the Pan Am Railways network.
The B&M flourished with the growth of New England's mill towns in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but still faced financial struggles. It came under the control of J. P. Morgan and his New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad around 1910, but anti-trust forces wrested control back. Later it faced heavy debt problems from track construction and from the cost of acquiring the Fitchburg Railroad, causing a reorganization in 1919.
Beginning in the 1930s, freight business was hurt by the leveling off of New England manufacturing growth, and by new competition from trucking.
The popularization of the automobile doomed B&M as a passenger carrier. It cut its Troy, NY to Boston passenger service back to Williamstown, MA in January 1958 and gave up on long distance passenger service completely by 1965. It was able to continue Boston commuter service only by the aid of subsidies from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. In 1973 the MBTA bought the rolling stock and tracks near Boston from the ailing B&M. The B&M filed for bankruptcy in December 1970. During bankruptcy, the B&M reorganized, rebuilding its existing fleet of locomotives, leasing new locomotives and rolling stock, and securing funds to upgrade its track and signal systems. It limped along through the 1970s, and reportedly was on the brink of liquidation during 1973-1974. The B&M was offered to merge its properties into the new Conrail but opted out.
By 1980, though still a sick company, the B&M started turning around thanks to aggressive marketing and its purchase of a cluster of branch lines in Connecticut. The addition of coal traffic and piggyback service also helped. In 1983 the B&M emerged from bankruptcy when it was purchased by Timothy Mellon's Guilford Transportation Industries for $24 million. This was the beginning of the end of the Boston & Maine corporate image, and the start of major changes, such as the labor issues which caused the strikes of 1986 and 1987, and drastic cost cutting such as the 1990 closure of B&M's Mechanicville, NY site, the largest rail yard and shop facilities on the B&M system.
<from: wikipedia.com>
Maine Central Railroad
The Maine Central Railroad (AAR reporting marks MEC) was a railroad in central and southern Maine. It was chartered in 1856 and began operations in 1862. It operated between South Portland, Maine, east to the Canada-U.S. border with New Brunswick, west to Vermont and north to Quebec.
The Maine Central was created initially through the merger of the Androscoggin and Kennebec Railroad and the Penobscot and Kennebec Railroad, resulting in a line from Danville (now Auburn) to Bangor. The line connected with the Grand Trunk Railway on its Portland-Chicago mainline at Danville and with the Bangor and Piscataquis Railroad in Bangor. As a result of its connection with the Grand Trunk, the Maine Central initially operated on a track gauge of 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm) known as "Canadian" or "Portland" gauge.
Following World War I, Maine Central began retracting. It sold or abandoned lines such as the narrow gauge logging systems, as well as its ferries and steamships. In the 1930s it began to change its locomotives from steam powered to diesel powered. Beginning in 1933, Maine Central entered into a "joint management" agreement with the Boston and Maine Railroad, with which it shared the Portland Terminal Railroad (a switching railroad in Portland).
In 1955, Maine Central completed a purchase of the E&NA line from Bangor to Vanceboro which it had leased in 1882. The deal consisted of $125 per share or $3,114,500 payable in cash or bonds at the election of the E&NA shareholders.
Faced with increased competition from cars, trucks and buses, Maine Central operated its last passenger train on September 5, 1960, and continued to reduce its freight business to reflect changing traffic. On December 17, 1974, Maine Central sold its trackage between Mattawamkeag and Vanceboro to Canadian Pacific for $5.4 million while retaining trackage rights from CPR over the section of line.
Central Vermont Railway
The Central Vermont Railway (AAR reporting marks CV) was a railroad that operated in the New England states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, as well as the Canadian province of Quebec.
It connected Montreal, Quebec, with New London, Connecticut, using a route along the shores of Lake Champlain, through the Green Mountains and along the Connecticut River valley, as well as Montreal to Boston, Massachusetts, through a connection with the Boston and Maine Railroad at White River Junction, Vermont.
On December 12, 1927, the Central Vermont Railway entered receivership (again), and was reorganized January 31, 1930, to form a new company of the same name.
Under the Grand Trunk and later the Canadian National, the Central Vermont system saw many of its unprofitable branch lines abandoned. The CN continued to operate the CV as a modestly successful system, however in the process leading up to the privatization of the CN, which took place on November 28, 1995, several non-core routes were identified for sale - one of these being the CV.
On February 3, 1995, the CN sold the CV mainline from New London, Connecticut, to East Alburg, Vermont, to shortline operating company RailTex, which renamed the property New England Central Railroad and continued to operate the line much as before.
On February 4, 2000, RailTex was merged into RailAmerica. Operations have continued to present as before.
A pint of Bathams please RUTH
TOM Interesting about the calendars. I have two from England here and one starts the week on Sunday and the other Monday.
Yes bad news about the INBEV take over, I only hope they keep their promise about the Clydesdales and all the other good things that link Anheuser-Busch to the St Louis area.
Another great new series many thanks. I must admit I did get excited when I saw St Louis to Kansas City as a high speed line until I saw Missouri had not approved the designation, still if it was built I guess it would roughly follow I 70 and not come through here anyway. I was surprised to see there was not a high-speed line from Chicago to the East Coast to a city like New York. But Boston to Montreal could be interesting if it ever got built.
In the British part I had not realized there was that many studies on a new north and west of London high speed lines. I guess what could really push for a new line was if the amount of freight carried on British railways was to dramatically increase, although with amount of money being spent on the West Coast upgrade presently it seems a new line would be a long way off in the future.
It was a shame the APT project was not carried on with, it was certainly ahead of its time when it came out. Great photo at Shildon, about 10 miles from my old house, showing a class 66 and a Pendelino.
The Swedish X2s are classy trains. It will interesting to see if the new Stockholm to Gothenburg LGV style line does get built.
Enjoyed the trivia that would have appeared in the much-missed Mentor Village Gazette. I think I am right in saying you are the only one to have been at every anniversary, although a couple of us as missed just one. I had fun looking through them.
I am sure the cement VITO uses for his galoshes is a lot stronger than the dentists use.
I had not seen that the Missouri travel on Amtrak was up 83%, although it has been evident that a lot more people are using it lately on my travels, I just hope that no one gets in a jam by using it and being very late getting where they want to go, like that lady with a plane to catch last time I traveled to Kirkwood.
ROB We had a bit of live theatre on Sunday, our friend's daughter was in a production of Big the Musical a very good show it was too.
Many thanks for the great photos. I like the Small Witt car and the HR 412 demo locomotive is in an interesting livery. Do you know if the Sperry Track car #147 was converted from an earlier car.
Yes at one time I believe BORIS served at the Transylvanian Court as keeper of the Privy Dragon or something similar although he does not seem to want to talk about it much.
H&H as dental technicians not a thought to dwell on, the saying No Pain No Gain would have a whole new meaning
Apparently the beavers in Missouri are like that.
That's a good idea for the Big Boy; the pig roast would be safe from AUK's Stuka impression, while it was cooking.
Many thanks for today's trolley photos. The trolleys look in wonderful condition and it is great to see No 327 again.
There was a very brief clip from the Farnbourough Air Show on BBC World this morning, so it must be going on now.
ERIC Glad you have got your photos back today's selection are great, thanks. Hopefully you will be able to post new ones soon to your site. I just wonder though, if was not those ‘archive' photos from the Penthouse Suite; that crashed the system, the timing seems about right.
With the West Coast modernization a lot of grade crossings have been eliminated, a few with the road being closed but most with a new bridge or underpass for the road, no doubt very expensive to do.
ALLAN The match was on again tonight and caught the last 15 minutes of it, it is the sort of match well worth watching again.
I think getting the bride interested in Cricket may be harder, someone must have told her about it and put her off saying it can go on for 5 days and still end in a draw. To me though, there is nothing quite like the sound of ball on the willow especially the village cricket club on a summer evening..
Well RUTH a round please.
Morning Ruth. In for a quick top up. A number three and a large thermos of the good stuff.Keep the change as always.I see that Boris ahs fed the critters so let him have the small jar of ppf ( gotta watch his girlish or is that gorrillaish figure )herer'a twenty for the slush fund as it looks like Molly is getting a new student. Plenty of room for Allan though Pete and I will keep him on the straight and narrow.
Tom-Got the e-mail thanks,verything is dually noted.Lets see a .500 batting average is pretty good. You should ask for A-Rod type compensation,( with ALL the fringe benefits )
It's good that you got as much done as you did when you had your talks in J city.Most people would have thrown up their hands and tossed the towel in. which is sad.I imagine if the Amtrak numbers hold steady over the long haul those new lines may yet materialize,prices are kind of dictatiiong that anyway. hatever tehy do try to make sure they make it surface transit,beyond grade crossings and river crossings etc.It's far cheaper to build above ground than under.
No worries about the gas miliage we get a good 37- 40 to a gallon on the highway with both cars ( US gallon )I have a back up anyway we aquired a large hamster and hamster ball which we will cut into the back axle,we've been feeding "killer" ots of high protien muscle building powders and potions and he gets his final injections tomorrow. Just don't put your fingers through the cage as he's not exactly friendly( once they get the taste of meat <uh oh > )
Pete-I hope your new crown is to your liking and comfort.(hopefully we don't have to refer to you as yoru majesty from now on ) Boris was confused at this when you mentioned the crown he started shopping for an ermine cover and purple velvet for your stool
Great photo's today,love the Big Boy firebox. You could roast a pig or two in there. Hmmm Our Places corn and pig roast may now have an appropriate cooker.
Lets see a few random shots for this morning.
A PCC on the Harbour front route in Toronto
TTC's lone Peter Witt 2766 by the Hillcrest shops
Snow sweeper S37 at the museum.
Our open car 327
A cup of coffee and a bacon sarnie please RUTH.
I thought I would drop off a couple of photos as Tom said he would be away in the morning.
Ex LMS class 5 4-6-0 No 45337 at Keighley at the start of the preserved branch to Oxenhope, as can be seen it is a sharp climb out of the station which is a junction to BR' s Leeds to Carlisle/ Carnforth line.
A couple from the Museum of Transportation at Kirkwood.
I can't find this interesting vehicle in the guide book.
FEED ME Firebox of the Big Boy.
.
Back later with my post.
The day after Monday has rolled ‘round - best thing I can come up with is, the coffee, pastries ‘n breakfasts are ready! tup]
<Note: prepared on Monday nite . . . >
Monday - July 14th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 55 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 9:38 AM: Morning visit from our Manager with some fine fotos! Nice selection across the spectrum on interests for steel wheels rolling on steel rails! Bombardier livery "way cool"!
Way too gross for me, regarding Boris' "collection" - some things are better not being known. <yikes>
Appreciate the visit, fotos ‘n chat!
Page 55 - Eric <EricX2000> at 6:55 PM <4:55 PM Sandbox time>: Just check the times between your arrival ‘n the one above from Rob - a drought at the bar, fer sure, fer sure <aside from the two I put "up"> . . . we surely can do better ‘n that. Anyway, appreciate the "early" arrival - came at the right time, fer sure, fer sure!
Now that the world's largest brewer has been "made," only time will tell of the impact all of this will have on this area ‘n others in the U.S. where AB has a total of 12 breweries, counting the one here. InBev has stated they are going to leave the breweries in tact - keep the Clydesdales ‘n continue the grants to the community. I guess that's an encouraging ‘sign.'
I think what makes this acquisition so hard to take is that AB has been a "home grown" outfit that made it's way to the top by NOT destroying smaller breweries through hostile takeovers ‘n the like. They became the #1 in the U.S. by being competitive ‘n providing a product that the consuming public wanted. That's the "old fashioned way," eh They surely will be missed ‘round these parts . . .
Presuming the calendar makers believed in God . . . I concur with you!
That Hi-Speed Rail Corridor map supposedly is the latest . . . it's from the Dept. of Transportation <via Wikipedia of course>. . . don't know how much more detailed it needs to be.
Work had begun in earnest from Chicago south to St. Louis a few years ago. They made great progress, as I understand it - got just a bit north of Springfield ‘til funding ran out and/or infrastructure nightmares cropped up. Haven't any facts to back that up - all anecdotal - I'm out of the loop.
Missouri isn't going to see anything like that in the foreseeable future as the last time I was involved in the discussions in JCity - they couldn't agree on whether to run the line where it is or go north of the Missouri River where there'd be fewer grade crossings. That's the major obstacle - redirecting ‘n re-engineering those things - jacks up the costs quantum fold.
Clarity ‘n detail in your foto spread is simply fantastic - many thanx!
Page 55 - Pete <pwolfe> at 7:47 PM: Figured it had to be something on the order of an "emergency" to keep you from the bar . . . then again, being Monday - who knows!!?? Sorry ‘bout the toof problem . . . <ouch>
Saw you logged in earlier in the day - also saw Fergie ‘n Eric. Hoped at least one of you would come through so that I wouldn't have to Post to myself. <groan>
Didja see where Amtrak was "up" 83% in Missouri for May travel Now if only something could be worked out to get Ups freights outta the way! <groan>
Suggestion: when catching up - try the most current to oldest - that way you'll know what is going on NOW. At least do that to catch the AM summary and anything else I may have put up . . . otherwise you'll be way behind the curve in knowing what's going on. Just a thought . . .
Email response received ‘n replied to . . . thanx!
ROUND, visit ‘n catch-up effort most appreciated!
Page 55 - Allan <Gunneral> at 9:21 PM <4:21 PM Tuesday NZ time>: Amazing how something as ‘simple' as a keyboard function could <and did> screw up your internet connection! Only a ‘puter Geek would understand such things . . . hmmmmm, maybe we should send you to Molly Throttlebottoms Adult Learning Centre for the late summer session on Troubleshooting Computers or Shoot the Computer - take your pick! <grin>
These are tuition free courses, with the tab picked up by our slush fund - all expenses to/from including after class ‘wind down' session at the bar included!
I was wondering ‘bout that great gas mileage ‘n figured it had to do with the "measurement" of the gallon. Now it makes sense! Still good though, especially in these times.
Break down on the Posts ‘n stuff was simply a "filler" while waiting for our Bar Chandler. Kinda like treading water!
Many thanx for the continuing support for this joint ‘n the ROUND of Tui!
Page 55 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 11:01 PM: Way past my bed time, but wanted to get as many of the acknowledgments compiled before hitting the sack. Morning is going to begin in a hurry! Juneau first - breakfast - then "it" begins . . . <arrrrrgggggghhhhh>
Actually, I had very little to do with the hi-speed rail project. Just happened to interact with those who did. My efforts were more aligned with keeping Amtrak running and trying to get light-rail to our community. Amtrak is still running <success!> and the light-rail is light years away <failure>. That's batting .500 - in baseball I'd be a super star!
Many thanx for the visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Good evening gents. Leon a round of the best for all those concerned
Tom-Thanks for the heads up we shall endeavour to fill your conciderable shoes. No Boris you won't need your garden gloves and wheelbarrow. great info on the high speed rail,the links made for some interesting reads.To bad your state has yet to approve the plan.I know you ahve been there , done that , tried your best so no further comment is required.
Interesting trivia answers as well,been doing a little research Is see.E-mail heading your way tonight as well BTW.
Eric-I further Tom's concern re the monsoon. Hopfully the wet squishy mud dosen't become quicksand great photo's as always. I like the ROW for the new light rail, looks like they have tried to make it blend in with the area as much as possible,which shows some class.The CLRV's are the most modern cars in toronto and the first bacth is quickly approaching their 30th birthdays. Mind you they are very well maintained and have been updated several times.
Allan-Keep buying those tics, just don't get them from the little shop outside of the second class saloon.
Pete-Oh dear more tooth work eh. Hmmm I told you not to miss payments on your tab.For a moderate premium we can get you on the corporate plan,thast or you could always go to teh teaching clinic where the work is done free by the students I hear that H&H are concidering becomming dental hygenists
So let me get this straight the beaver darted out and tackled the guy on the bike.Sounds more like a mugger than a beaver.
Just a nite cap for the boyz, Leon . . . figured I'd stop by to letchano that there's a probability of my being scarce for most of tomorrow morning 'n early afternoon. Have THREE appointments to keep . . . <yikes>
Appreciate the "early" Post from Eric 'n the fotos! Saw on the TV that Phoenix got inundated with a monsoon! Hope the flooding didn't adversely impact you 'n yours.
Pete, I hate to tell ya this, but you've lost two days at the bar due to that tooth problem AND you're NOT on our dental plan! <uh oh> Probably time for you to pay a call on our Village Dentist - Toofs 'r Us <A Vito Enterprise, LLC> <grin> . . . Email regarding "trip" received 'n responded to, by the by!
Allan - don't know what we'd do without ya, Mate - keep that Tui coming to us from downunder . . .
I'll compile more detailed commentaries for my next 'round of acknowledgments . . .
Drink up - sleep tight!
The usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please Leon.
Pete. Agree with you about the AB`s/Boks game, it was a pretty free flowing spectacle, that last try was a beauty! Nice to hear your bride is picking up on the rugby, are you getting her interested in the cricket at all?
Nick. From my memories of the flicks, "Oh, Mr. Porter" a good belly laugh with Will Hay playing a bumbling Station Master in Ireland mixed up with a group of crims. The " Titfield Thunderbolt" another good belly laugh with Stanley Holloway and a village taking on running a local branch line to prevent closure versus the local bus company, the real star of the flick was the live appearance of "Lion" the second oldest running steam loco.
Rob. Will have to keep on hoping that the Lotto win turns up. Another fine selection of trolley, loco and Sperry cars` pix from you.
Eric. Send as much of that dessert heat as you like. Some nice pix of the signal with caboose, Pheonix light rail track work, and your X2000.
Tom. That's not a bad gas mileage for a 5 cylinder Volvo, I was quoting my mileage in UK gallons which are a tad larger than the US gallon. Nice choice of flicks for the weekend, especially the Woody Guthrie one, as he spent a lot of time riding the rails, which showed up in his songs. A nice link to the Branson Scenic RR and a very interesting write up on the Hi Speed trains in the USA, UK and Sweden with the pix and the links. We eventualy found that the pasting shortcut "Ctrl+v" was`nt working properly which was causing the dial up to cut out for some reason! Very interesting break down of all the posts on our special days`.
A pint of Bathams please RUTH well it was RUTH when I started but had to go to the dentists this afternoon as the temporary crown was too temporary. I have caught up to the bottom of Page 54 and it is getting a bit long so I will post this and put my comments for page 55 tomorrow.
ERIC Really hope you are able to get all the photos that have been messed up straightened out and I hope you are OK from that heavy rain, in your area, they were talking about on the news today.
Many thanks for the photo of Durango, the bride and I had just arrived in Durango and after checking in to a motel near the station went for a walk in the town. We heard a train whistle and just as we reached that road crossing the train was returning from Cascade. It was the first locomotive I had seen in steam in the United States.
Yes when we rode the train the next day it only ran to Cascade Wye. There was no snow at all when we went to bed but a good snowfall stared in the morning.
NICK Very good words indeed about the bar, yes I too sometimes feel as the bar is a magazine, but with a lot more humour than in railway magazines in general. Looking in the first Bound volumes of the Railway Magazine from 1897, at the Barriger Library, in the early issues they featured a fictional story with a railway connection and those Railroad Magazines which covers Tom features, have articles written in a style that seems to have disappeared nowadays.
I feel the same way about the letters page, one of the best parts of any railway magazine or a newspaper for that matter.
Sounds a great day at the Folk Dancing Festival you must be very proud of Hannah taking part.
I must admit I could watch Hey Mr. Porter and the Titfield Thunderbolt at any time. I think Titfield was one of the first ‘Ealing Comedies' filmed in colour and inspired by the Talylyn preservation. A gentle comedy with some truly classic moments like the Steam Roller v Locomotive joust and the loco running through the streets.
ALLAN Glad you liked the photos, the Durango and Silverton really is a very scenic line and to be hauled by steam as well.
I wonder if the folks in England will detect any part of an American accent in me when I go back there.
Yes it was a great game of Rugby; we got to watch it at Pat's on one TV while Baseball was on the other. I thought that the ABs was going to win after the BOK's captain was yellow carded and missed the last of the match. The bride is getting to like Rugby but is not impressed when it is all forward play and backs don't get the ball but Saturday's game was how Rugby is meant to be played I thought.
ROB Glad you had a great time in Toronto and had a good time at the concert.
Glad you enjoyed the Durango photos, I have never understood why calendar makers never show snowy scenes for the hot summer months to make us feel cool and pictures of hot summer days in the winter instead of the other way about.
I did not get much of a chance to read the fine print on my chandler's contract, Guido said it was ether my signature or my pint of Bathams on the contract, can't waste a pint of Bathams so I signed.
The bride, who saw the beaver incident, said it shot out of the verge alongside the Katy Trail and headed straight for a cyclist fetching him off his bike, luckily at slow speed.
How I wish there was a shop here that sold British railway magazines.
TOM It was a really good weekend at the bar I thought.
Many thanks for the kind words and I am glad you enjoyed the Durango photos.
There must be a difference in the law concerning abandoned railway track beds in the UK and the USA and how the way the Right of Way was obtained in the first place. It is an interesting subject.I know I read, but did not fully understand, how the old KATY Bridge at Boonville could affect the whole trail if it was removed.
It seems that you get great weather for your adventures on the rails, like Alaska your Canadian trips and the Rendezvous, long may it continue.
Many thanks for the link to the Branson Scenic Railway; I really must see if we can take the Bride's mom on a trip on the line.
Two good films on at the Emporium this week and two films I would very much like to see. A Western with Robert Duvall in it is bound to be good and Woody Guthrie's story, of course the Stooges. .
Well LEON it will have to be drinks on me for the rest of the evening for my late post.
Good afternoon/evening Captain Tom and all present!!
Leon, my friend, a ham sandwich would be just perfect this Monday afternoon and a cold Tui!
At least it is still afternoon here in the desert! Can report that I am now able to get to my photos again but I can't add any new ones yet.
Nick – I agree with your observations! "Our" Place is a good place to learn the history of different railroads around the world! Every day there is something new to learn! Good to hear that the rain stayed away when Hannah was in the folk dancing festival! I bet she loved it!You did a great job fixing this place after that wild Anniversary Party! You are right, it was a wild night!!! Allan – We haven’t been that hot here the last week but it is going to warm up this week so you’ll soon have a package of heat at your door step. Tom – Who is putting up all those crazy signs? Vito? No, I am just trying to help Senior Manager Lars so he doesn’t get into any trouble. Who do you think throw away those photos from the Penthouse Suite? Made a copy for the archive though, just in case.Alaska is on my list! Whenever I get a chance, off I go. Not this year though. Two good movies at the Emporium this week! Lonesome Dove and Bound for Glory! I have seen the first one many years ago, but I’ll be happy to see it again! You wonder why weeks in calendars in other countries start with Monday? I guess they learned that Sunday is the seventh day when God rested and I don’t think he rested the first day of the week. I heard the sad news about Anheuser-Busch. Don’t know what to say, but I don’t like it. High Speed Rail, interesting topic. Somewhere I have a pretty detailed map with all High-Speed Rail corridors in the US. I’ll see if I can find it. I saw that St. Louis – Jefferson City – Kansas City is included! But not Los Angeles – Las Vegas. The X2000 is geared for 210 km/h (130 mph) as of today. The reason they haven’t increased the speed to 220 or 250 km/h (155 mph) is because there are still a number of grade crossings and grade crossings are not allowed at speeds faster than 200 km/h. I have to have a closer look at “Our” PLace III Special Posts! Rob – No, I don’t think people got too confused seeing all the mud last Thursday night and last night (more rain). Mud is just another word for juicy sand. An interesting mix of photos! I am kind of surprised that the HR412 locomotive doesn’t have any ditch lights. I guess the CLRV is a pretty modern streetcar in Toronto.Just a few old photos today.
Track for the light rail line in Phoenix. Service will start Dec 27 this year.
X2000, track 16, Union Station, Washington D.C. 1992.
Here's some trivia regarding "Our" Place III . . . good for lining bird cages <Awk 'n Artie comes to mind!> . . . Anyway, if we still ran the Mentor Village Gazette, this is the "meaningful stuff" you'd find following the obits . . .
"Our" Place III Special Day Posts <all dates ‘n times recorded in Central time zone>
3rd Year Anniversary - 12 Apr 2008 <begins on Page 10>
Eric - Dan - Tom - Dan - Lars - Tom - Pete - Eric - Tom - Eric - Tom - Eric - Lars - Eric - Pete - Tom - Dan - Lars - Pete - Tom - Pete - Eric - Tom - Lars - Pete - Tom - Eric - Mike - Nick - Pete - Nick - Allan - Nick
Monthly Anniversary - 12 May 2008 <Page 25>
Tom - CM3 Shane - Tom - Fergie - Pete - Tom - Rob - Nick - Nick - Nick
Monthly Anniversary - 12 Jun 2008 <Page 39>
Eric - Tom - Tom - CM3 Shane - Tom - Pete - Rob - Nick - Nick - Tom - Nick - Rob
Canada Day - 01 July 2008 <begins on Page 48>
Dan - Tom - Pete - Rob - Tom - Tom - Tom - Pete - Tom - Tom - Rob
U.S. Independence Day - 04 July 2008 <begins on Page 50>
Eric - Dan - Tom - Rob - Tom -Fergie - Tom - Eric - Nick - Nick - Tom - Nick - Allan
Monthly Anniversary - 12 July 2008 <Page 54>
Tom - Pete - Tom - Lars - Tom - Pete - Eric - Nick - Allan
"Our" Place III "Page Turners" of note
Page 10 - Tom - 11 Apr 2008
Page 20 - Rob - 30 Apr 2008
Page 30 - Tom - 23 May 2008
Page 40 - Rob - 13 June 2008
Page 50 - Pete - 03 July 2008
We now return to our regularly scheduled programming - entitled: Waiting for Pete's Monday Posting! <geesh!!> Hmmmm, maybe - just maybe he'll drop off a foto over on my lonely Thread . . . Nah. <triple geesh!!!> C'mon, Bar Chandler - we need a ROUND!
Rob, our Manager made it "in" during the AM, which of course frees me up to provide a little something - ‘n takes the "heat off" Pete too! <We KNOW how much he detests early Monday "anything"!!>
Hi-Speed Rail ‘round the World
#1 - United States - United Kingdom - Sweden
United States
Development of high-speed rail in the United States can be traced back to the streamliners in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. These systems, in turn, can be traced further back to the competing companies operating different routes between London and Scotland, and to railways in Germany and France. Several factors, including a blanket 79 speed limit set by the FRA in the 1940s, as well as the easy availability of national air travel, contributed to the stagnation of rail passenger transport in the U.S. just as Europe and Japan were pushing forward. However, high jet fuel prices, congested airports and highways, and increasing airport security rules regarding liquids and electronics that force most travelers to check baggage make high-speed rail options more attractive. There has been a resurgence of interest in recent decades, with many plans being examined for high-speed rail across the country, but current service remains relatively limited. <from: wikipedia.com>
For remainder of narrative, click the link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_in_the_United_States
Acela #2000 at BWI station - 16 Sep 2003 <foto credit: Chao-Hwa Chen/Public Domain>
Designated hi-speed corridors <GNU Free Documentation>
Caveat: These corridors "won" designation as part of the process for funding from federal ‘n state tax dollars. It is noteworthy that all of the mid-west corridors ("spoking" out from Chicago) have been approved by the respective states with the EXCEPTION of Missouri. So, there is no need to get excited - Pete - it ain't coming here!
United Kingdom
Following the successful opening of the first phase of High Speed 1 in 2003 there has been much debate in the British national media and specialist rail circles on the merits of constructing further high-speed rail routes in the United Kingdom. The international definition of high-speed rail for new lines is those with a speed of at least 250 kilometres per hour (160 mph) and for existing lines those with a speed of around 200 kilometres per hour (120 mph).
The fastest current UK domestic services operate at 125mph (201km/h) on the West Coast Main Line (WCML), East Coast Main Line (ECML) and Great Western Main Line. Attempts to increase these speeds to 140mph (225km/h) on both the WCML and ECML have failed for various reasons, principally because speeds over 125 mph (201km/h) require in-cab signalling. (See the lines' respective articles for further details). However, trains capable of 225 kilometres per hour (140 mph) will be introduced on domestic services between London and Kent along the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL) in 2009 - although this is technically not high speed rail by the accepted definition described above.
Perhaps because of the continuing growth of high-speed services across continental Europe and the frustrations encountered by domestic rail projects in the UK, there has been a growing movement within industry and latterly government circles for the inclusion of a new North-South line in transport policy. <from wikipedia.com>
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_in_the_United_Kingdom
The Advanced Passenger Train was Britain's first attempt at a stopgap towards a true high-speed line, which was cancelled due to financial constraints. <foto credit: Max Battan/Wikimedia Commons>
A Virgin Trains Pendolino and an EWS freight train pass each other on the West Coast Main Line near Shilton in Warwickshire, England. On the left can be seen the Oxford Canal. <Foto credit: G-Man, March 2006 Public Domain>
Sweden
Sweden today runs many trains at 200 km/h. Train types include the X2 tilting trains for long distances, the Regina widebody trains, the X40 double-decker regional trains, and the Arlanda Airport Express X3. Since both the X2 and X3 are allowed to run at 205 in case of delay, they can technically be considered as high-speed trains. The X2 runs between many cities in Sweden including Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö. The Arlanda Express trains connect Stockholm and Stockholm-Arlanda Airport. <from: wikipedia.com>
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_in_Sweden
X2 train used by SJ AB of Sweden <foto credit: SJ AB w/auth to use>
2008 map of 200 km/h hi-speed rail <GNU Free Documentation>
Good morning Ruth.you look <ahem> rested after a busy weekend ( at least Friday and Saturday )Just the usual a number three and the extra large "splashed" thermos of coffee.I see that Boris has puit a few pounds on with Lars aloowing the two jars of large ppf ( his perrogitive of coarse )Sooo Boris a day of romping in the canyon for you and only a small ppf today once of coarse you've seen to the critters
Tom-Yes it twas a good day in Toronto,lots to see and do ran teh full lenght of teh ahrbour front streetcar route as the condcert was out at the Molson Ampatheater at Ontario Place,got two or three round trips in on the Yonge subway as well.We went by GO this time as we knew the concert would run alter than VIA's return sched to Brantford would allow,it was nice though as the ten minute drive to teh Aldershot GO station and it's free parking was much better than the alternative of driving all the way to Toronto.
I'd have to say that I would not like to have to touch any slippery snot ( that's what Boris is for ) He has a collection don't you know. I'm sure that Pete found it in his last cleaning of the shed.
Any waya few photo's before I'm off like a herd of turtles. No Boris ,turtle soup in not on tonights menue.Perhaps on the half shell though, hmmm we need to talk to Nick.
CLRV on Parliament street
Small Witt 2766 ( still owned and chartered by the TTC ) on Bloor street during it's 1970's tour tram service.
Bombardiers HR412 demo train when it was being flogged to the CP,it's numbered in CP's demo num,bering scheme.
One of those seldom scene things a Sperry rail services track inspection truck in Wood stock Ontario. ( No Boris the big concert was not held there )
Sperry track car in Toronto.
enjoy folks
A smile to begin the week!
Seated in the backseat of a car when the rains began to fall, Yogi said, "Where's that coming from?"
<A Yogi-ism!>
Ever notice the difference in some calendars where the beginning of a week is concerned Here in the states it begins with Sunday, whereas in many other places, it's Monday. Hmmmm, wonder why the difference Hmmmm. Well, no matter - ‘round here, "it" all starts anew on MONDAY! Sooooooooo, fill up the mugs, check out the pastries, ‘n order yourself a breakfast in order to jump start the work week <for many>!
Doom ‘n Gloom here in the land of the Clydesdales as St. Louis' cornerstone industry has been gobbled up by the Belgian-Brazilian behemoth, INBEV. RIP, Anheuser-Busch you "done good" for this area. They closed the deal on Sunday in the AB hangar out at our local airport here in Chesterfield . . . lots of private jets ‘n helicopters with all kinds of security. You'd have "thunk" there was something going on in a national-security-like sense. <barf> Anyway, it's done ‘n I don't envision any changes to the beer, which of course is the bottom line to the guys at the bars across the landscape.
Also noted that Bombardier of Canada has decided to keep the production of their new-generation regional jet up there, rather than in KCity . . . a wise decision, in my humble OH-PIN-YUN. As a Missouri resident 'n taxpayer, I'm <censored> sick 'n tired over these "tax concessions" constantly being thrown hither 'n yon, whilst those of us with homes keep paying more, more 'n more. Wise decision, indeed! so, Boris - ring the bell 'n give 'em doubles on the 'spiked OJ' . . .
Sunday - July 13th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 54 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 7:44 PM <1:44 AM Monday GMT>: And our Chief Chef has found reason to pay a call on Sunday evening at the Tavern by the Tracks. We know how much you enjoy the atmosphere of an after hours gin mill . . .
Videos of those early Brit flicks may be found in the drawer beneath the largest of our big screen consoles - always good for a view, eh And of course they were shown at the Emporium Theatre a time or two . . .
Regarding your thoughts on track plans for our OP-SHUN-UL Toy ‘n Model Trains Day <aka: Pike Perspective's Day> - probably wudda been better-er when we had model railroaders participating ‘round here. Far as I know, you ‘n I are the only ones' with a pike. However, any contribution along those lines would be a PLUS at the Bar by the Ballast. I'm just not sure we'll see it go the way you'd like . . . BUT - keep on thinking, Mate - never let the "flies" take roost! <yikes>
Much appreciation for keeping us in your thoughts ‘n sparing a bit of your time with the chat!
Page 54 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 10:43 PM: A weekend stop by our Manager!
Was a rather "civil" SELL-A-BRAY-SHUN on Saturday, but with a surprise or two to keep the day festive as Lars, Pete ‘n Eric provided the daylite Posts followed by the "usual suspects" in the evening!
Weekends were "made" for doing the things we can't get A-ROUNDTUIT ‘tween work days . . . A round trip aboard the train - a day in Toronto - sounds just fine to Moi!
Precisely my point, who knows what the Earth may be known as for other inhabitants of things thing we call a Universe
Enjoying your keeping the "thumb" on our Bar Chandler . . . he's slicker ‘n snot on a door knob! <ugh> Yeah, go ahead ‘n steal that one too!
Thanx for the visit ‘n chat . . .
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
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
"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>
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!
Friday - July 11th <all times Central daylite>:
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!
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