G'day Gents!
Figured I'd keep going with the narrative stuff since I'm really against the wall today with other things going on . . . the "big dig" is proceeding quite well. Yesterday's rains were restricted to the afternoon, so they got a good half-day "in." Really lucked out with the guys who are doing the work - cudda been far worse. These two give a Rat's Patoot - so in spite of the exorbitant amount of personal gold being transferred from my vault to the contractor's, I'll make sure the two who are busting their humps get a little extra from me.
I haven't been out since taking my bride for an impromptu trip to our favorite Italian Ristorante the other evening - but then petrol ‘round these parts had dropped to $2.80 <rounded>. Still too high - but better-er.
Okay - here we go . . .
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative):
Page 48 – CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 7:41 AM <8:41 AM EDT>: A rather early visit from the coal fields, but pleased to see our Resident WVA Connection found the path to our door!
We've been down this road before ‘n confident that our <GoR> will master this latest rocking of the boat!
Appreciate the visit - ROUND ‘n quarters!
Hope the "bracer" did the trick . . .
Page 48 – Fergie <Fergmiester> at 9:22 AM <11:22 AM ADT>: Always a treat to have our Resident Canadian Maritime Mariner on board!
I don't recall being asked to "support" or otherwise make comment on CHANGES around here. We're "guests" - that's pretty much the way I see it. Ain't ours to <moan> ‘n <groan> about, except I suppose to one another. Reminds me of the old "mess deck" days <daze>. <grin>
That's a nice lil' hobby shop at the Brantford station ‘n I'm glad you found it. Too bad you couldn't meet up with Rob- but you tried! That "counts" . . . Maybe one of these days <daze> you'll get a "liberty pass" ‘n we can take off on a rail journey where the dome car is in the consist, the dining car ready for us ‘n the beer served just right <aka: often!>
Your report on VIA Rail's corridor service was of interest to me. I suppose if one doesn't ride the trains on a regular basis, it's kind of natural to comment about the sway, etc. Don't have a clue when the last time either of you traveled on the rails. I will say this about VIA Rail - the service is most-times OUTSTANDING when on their long-distance trains WHEN in a bedroom booking. Corridor trains are corridor trains - commuters for the most part. So I don't look for anything from the crew ‘n am not surprised when they offer nothing! I've traveled VIA1 class several times between Montréal ‘n Toronto - even with the exorbitant upgrade price, the service ain't that grand - but there is meal service included, etc.
Regarding the queuing up thing - when booked on the Ocean or Chaleur or Canadian, there are designated areas set aside for bedroom passengers in Montréal, Toronto ‘n Vancouver. Get a bit better comfort zone while waiting. But of course, once "marching" to the platform - how else could they do it
So, should the day ever arrive when you ‘n your bride decide to take an overnighter in a bedroom car - I think you'll quickly note the difference. Coach is coach - you get what you pay for - nothing more, most times. Same applies to Amtrak, where the service most times ISN'T!
Glad to know that you've FINALLY experienced some steel wheels on steel track!
I never returned to the RailImages Foto hosting once they CHANGED <there's that word again!>. I found the instructions totally out of my sphere of understanding ‘n wondered just WHO really did understand that gibberish Anyway, I let ‘em die on the vine, transferring from other sources to PhotoBucket those images I use to this day. Anyway, I'm confident you'll get A-ROUNDTUIT one of these days <daze> ‘n we'll all be treated to some FergieFotos!
Thanx for the visit, chat ‘n support for the bar!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Boris, serve ‘em all another "belt" of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Tom
Hi Tom and all.
A round please for all please RUTH.
Not long arrived in Chester from York and have found a cyber cafe.Tried last week at a library but I could not reply and half the photos did not appear.Thought I would drop this note in first then have a read through the posts as time allows the bar looks to have been quite busy.
Went to the National Railway Museum yesterday had a great time, you will have to come sometime Tom and the Duchess on the steam tour last week worked really well.
Well I had better post this now as the slow typing speed is coming home to roostwith the cyber time.
Hope you are all keeping well and hope to see you in the bar soon.
Pete.
Just dropping this off "in case" Wolfman is still in that cyber café over in Merry Olde . . .
Page 49 – Pete <pwolfe> at 12:31 PM <6:31 PM GMT>: And surprise of suprises as the Wolfmanhas visited from Merry Olde <2nd time since his departure>!
Must not have picked up on the CHANGES ‘n I'm amazed that he simply Posted as if nothing happened! I'm impressed . . . apparently "no sweat" for our Interim Governor General!
Pete, my bags are ALWAYS packed ‘n ready to go - just some "small" things get in the way, like getting YOU to make a decision regarding WHEN along with little annoyances like leaking basement walls, etc. <grin> But YES, I'd love to visit the National Railway Museum at York ‘n the rest of the places we've discussed - ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh yeah!
Noted that the dollar has gained some against the pound with this crazy topsy-turvy fiscal crisis. Guess that takes a wee bit of the sting out of it for your friends from the states . . .
Wondering if your Mates have had a hard time understanding you, now that you've become Americanized! <grin>
TURN ON YOUR CELL FONE - Nick MAY HAVE LEFT A MESSAGE FOR YOU!
Regards to your bride! Many thanx for taking the time ‘n making the effort to stop by - it isn't everyone who does that when away ‘n for the ones who DO - this BREW is for YOU! And of course, THANX for the b
Hi Tom and all,
Leon, the usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please.
Rob. Great to see you made it into the new place, looks like we had the same hassles. A nice set of train and trolley pix, they look a lot sharper on this site. N scale is a bit of a challenge, but I`ve found that I do best having something as a challenge. Good to hear you're doing your bit for the community over there.
Eric. The ICE train was a lucky guess, the German labels were the giveaway. Hope you`ve got over the getting on site problem by now? Who would have thought of a NURSES station pic, very topical for Our Place!
Nick. They model NZ rail in Hon3.5 scale mostly and NZ 120 on N track. Congratulations on the fine selection of your layout pix, things are looking really great, you will be highly chuffed with the results.
Fergie. Good to see you made it into the new site, I found it slightly frustrating to get in to it.
CM3. Good to see you made it into the new site, looks as if we got over all of the same obstacles.
Pete. Great to see you in at the new place mate, it was good to hear you had a great time at the NRM and your trip behind the Duchess. Looking forward to all of your photos` when you get back.
Tom. You are so right about aging, I do`nt feel old at all, it`s just that the body begs to differ a lot of the time! Am finding that the new site takes a lot longer to load up and am getting the wide page phenomenon now and again, have had that problem of going back to page one when posting a reply too. Hope the digging phase of the basement water fix is progressing OK at the moment, you`ll be glad when it`s finally completed?
See ya, Allan
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, coffee and a cheese danish, please!
A very brief stop tonight before I hit the sack. This evening was way too short because of other things that had to be taken care of and trying to post something now is time consuming. If the post I am replying to is short it isn't too bad, but if it is longer, like twice the length of Allan's post (above) all kind of strange things are happening when I am scrolling down to the bottom of the post in order to type my message. Parts of the post are disappearing and then partly popping up again before disappearing again. The message area is only partly visible. Crazy, very poor job!
Sorry for being so negative but I couldn't believe that Kalmbach would do it again, screw up this place totally, narrowing the number of browsers to 2. I already have two different browsers in my computer because of Kalmbach and now they want me to add a third one. No way! 2 1/2 years ago both worked just fine and now no one does!!! I wonder who is at fault?
I'll try to stop by tomorrow with an inclusive post.
Round for the house!
Eric
Morning chaps (well it is here anyway) just a quick note through the door-the rest of the crew are off walking for the day so I am gonna sneak off to the train shed for an hour or two -Will be back later with some catch ups-good to see plenty of action about the place I see the page size has been narrowed to fit in adverts .................Hmmmmmmmm..
TOM-A wonderful & generous offer my friend...-will check up the `spec` on the stuff and if I can use them will give you a fair price for them (that bit is non-negotiable)--If you won`t accept cash,then I have another idea which I suspect you will find difficult to resist
Right,lets try a pic or two to start the day rolling
img{}/img
Down Milford Haven service at Whitland
Mixed bag from the Vale of Rheidol
A pair of retired switchers on the quay at Milford,before the re-development-since gone for scrap I believe
Mixed broad & standard gauge tracks at the G.W.R society centre at Didcot
A nice little `kettle`-this is the 4ft gauge forerunner of the Llanberis Lake line that PETE & i showed pix of recently (little quarry Hunslets in red,yellow & blue liveries plus a funicular wagon hoist)
Right-off to pin some rail-it`s a through-the-window job,so best get it done whilst its dry out.......
Have a good day one and all
later
<In my modest hardcover RR book library!>
Friday has rolled ‘round once more - a relief for the working crowd! <grin> Join us for breakfast as our coffee is brewing, pastries freshly stocked in The Mentor Village Bakery Case ‘n our breakfasts ready to order from Our Menu Board - featuring <light> ‘n <traditional> bills o' fare!
Turned the TV off when the BoSox were "out of it" by the 7th inning. Ha! They have to be the best come-back team of this era. Unbelievable turnabout!
Did watch my Blues on the split screen as they continue to amaze on the ice. They beat the Stars, handily ‘n are off to a fine start this season. Leading the league in power plays ‘n other "stuff." Yeah, it's early - but good to see. Luv hockey!
Also heard that the Blues have the lowest average ticket prices whereas Toronto is the highest.
It’s “You Post, I Post” at the Bar by the Ballast!
Page 49 – Allan <Gunneral> at 7:47 PM <1:47 PM Friday NZ DST>: Always a treat to have our Resident Downunder Kiwi swing by!
A fine all-inclusive effort from our FlickMeister! Covered the bases well ‘n provided a bit o' this ‘n that for the crew! Too bad your connection situation is so tenuous, otherwise I'd relegate the "duties" to you of putting together our Emporium Theatre listings for the week. Something I'm sure you'd do a great job with . . .
The "big dig" has slowed to a crawl, unfortunately. One of the guys has had an injury <not job related> ‘n it has really put a crimp in his ability to get on with the labor. The other guy had a medical appointment which turned yesterday into another half day. Wondering about this day as well as the guy with the foot problem has a visit to the Doc in mid-afternoon. Seems the contractor has run out of workers as he's had a tuff week of it with several not showing up - therefore no extra help available! Oh well . . . "stuff" happens. BUT there is a light at the end of the tunnel - they aren't that far from completion. So, I suspect it will all be history by this time next week! <phew>
I'm tempted to "boot up" ‘n jump in the trench to help things along - but I'd definitely be more of a hindrance than help. Then I'd have to suffer the consequences of my over exuberance with the worsening pains in my hands ‘n back. Old age is for old people! <grin>
Many thanx for the visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Page 49 – Eric <EricX2000> at 1:37 AM <11:37 PM Sandbox time>: And our Resident DESERT Almost-Retired Swede made it "in" with a narrative to keep things alive at the betwitching hour! <grin>
Extremely unsettling to know that you're having such a terrible time at what should be fun. After all, that's what this bar was created for ‘n I'd have to make the assumption the Forums were as well. It's hardly fun when one spends an inordinate amount of time ‘n effort just to try ‘n get things to a baseline of acceptance. If you, perhaps our most astute ‘puter user ‘n techie are having this kind of problem, then there IS something gone wrong. We can hope there are efforts underway to correct these problems - that is IF the concerns are being read through Email sent to Kalmbach <which I know you have sent>.
Thanx for helping us out thru remaining with us, but oh so sorry that our Sandman is displeased . . . ain't the same ‘round here without the good cheer from EricX2000! <groan>
Appreciate the ROUND - of course!
Page 49 – Nick <nickinwestwales> at 5:45 AM <11:45 AM GMT>: An unexpected pleasure having our Resident Musician in Wales drop by for breakfast with the gang!
Was surely wondering whether we'd have a severe drought set in as nearly 7 hours elapsed between Posts at the bar . . . we're just at a point where it's very difficult to figure out when our <GoR> will show up. But, thanx to you - things began rolling again as the night sky took over.
Noticed your Foto sizes were automatically reduced, which is a good feature BUT surely wonder why it seems to be so selective Perhaps no answer to that one - just as the "new" narrower Page has made things even more - ummmmmmmmm - different. <barf>
As always, a fine spate o' Pix for the gang! Are you downsizing those Fotos or is that a Forum's "thing." It's not a bad idea ‘n if the Forums is responsible it would be nice if ALL Pix received the "treatment."
That Whitland scene is a <keeper> fer sure, fer sure as is that mixed gauge track shot.
No way will there be pay! That's not part of the deal from this side of the pond. Remuneration for postage can always be arranged in some other fashion - but the devices are excess to my needs ‘n if you can use ‘em, your most welcome!
Narrower Pages equates to a quicker arrival at LOCKDOWN! <barf>
I noticed that there's a "blurb" next to my cyber name for me to subscribe to Classic Trains Magazine - hmmmmm, I have a subscription thru 2012! Apparently that too is without explanation . . . <triple barf>
Well, no point in the sniping bit, eh I mean unless ‘n until we relocate, this is what we're destined to put up with . . . it's FREE afterall. <grin> But then again IS IT for everyone I'd wager a guess that the money some of us put forth for subscriptions ‘n other purchases from Kalmbach are bank-rolling at least a bit of these Forums.
Many thanx for your wake-up call!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Dinner begins at 5 PM so come early ‘n often!
Cindy is our Saturday bartender!
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Heavy fog here this a.m. (right on the deck) with deer all over the place – that’s right Boris, it rained and they’re on the move. Gas is at $2.99/gal this a.m. and I went to bed b4 the Red sox staged their comeback – the games start too late and when you’re up and about around 5:00 a.m., you have to keep to schedule.
First off, my apologies for not posting. It had nothing to do with the forum changes but rather with a lot of unexpected stuff that came up at work. It’s quieting down for a moment so I’m truly in catch up mode.
Nor much to say about the new forum except that it’s a bit hard to navigate. Custom zooming the pages has solved the size problem; I set it at about 85 percent and text is about 11-12 point and the pictures are within reasonable limits. We shall get there.
Nick has been in with all sorts of model and prototype information. Your layout work continues – remember, it’s only a hobby, it’s only a hobby. The shot of the 0-6-0 in your last set of pictures (last photo in fact) was a keeper. Last issue of Steam Glory had an article on specially painted southern Pacific 0-6-0s which were used as passenger switchers at different terminals such as Oakland, Sacramento, etc. Colorful paint jobs and decorations abound.
Rob was in with pictures.
Fergie visited as well.
Eric – I understand your frustrations – puters are great when they work. I enjoyed your story about our friends from the eastern side “twisting the lion’s tail.” Aircraft do tend to calm things down a bit.
Pete – Hello: I hope you are enjoying yourself.
OSP – see my comments above re the Red Sox. I did see the highlights on ESPN earlier today. Nice set of logos you have been using as headers. Also have enjoyed the series of NKP pictures. One of NKP 760 is actually a PRR train (behind a K4) near Englewood. There are a lot of mail and express cars on this one – maybe it is the Duquesne. Anyway, good picks all. Speaking of picks, I trust the entrenching work is going o.k. at your place.
Call of The Trains is supposed to be here either today or tomorrow – looking forward to this one as I mentioned in my email.
Well, let’s see if we can cut and paste files in this new iteration of the forum. Holy cow! It did what it was supposed to do.
Work safe
In my quest to master the CHANGES, I'm trying this ‘n that with the formatting - so these "real time" responses are perhaps a bit more frequent than in the past. Still way off for me to submit my pre-prepared material - that's going to take TIME to ensure format compatibility. <ugh>
So, let's see how this one turns out! <grin>
Page 49 –CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 9:19 AM <10:19 AM EDT>: Great to see that things have settled down for our working-stiff out in WVA! <grin> It's tuff when one has to earn their keep in order to maintain a level of lifestyle, eh Not to mention eating, housing, clothing, etc. <grin>
Ya gotta read today's Boston Globe sports section - it's a good accounting of last nite's 2-out comeback in the 7th inning by your BoSox . . .
As mentioned previously, the "big dig" is proceeding toward completion. Have the same 2 guys back this morning, so we'll see . . . weather is excellent, cool, crisp ‘n clear.Juneau has had 2 walks thus far <each in excess of a mile> ‘n we're gearing up for another! Oh, the merry chase he has me on! <grin>
All kinds of ‘stuff' out there regarding the CHANGES to the Forums. Noticed that Fergie has chimed in as well - he usually does in a positive manner. I suspect he's one of the LOCKMASTER's Discipiles! <uh oh> <grin> Ooooooooops, that should awaken him! Wish I could direct youse guyz to these Threads - but I'm afraid that's a bit too challenging right now! <ugh>
Appreciate your support for keeping this going during daylite - which is the most important part of the day insofar as interaction is concerned. Anyway - THANX! Also, ROUND ‘n quarters help immensely! <KaChing> <KaChing> Hmmmmmm, have you adjusted the amount of quarters for inflation Hmmmmmm.
AND this is the 5th attempt at getting this Post to Format correctly from Word to the Forums. <barf>
Good Afternoon Cap’n Tom and Crew!
Beer and Corned Beef on Rye Please and some waffle Fries!
Rob: Did ya get your prize?
Not much on the go here as I completed physio this morning and realize immortality will have to wait! Yes this “Old” crap is a real nuisance!
Yes how-a-bout those Bo-Sox! It ain’t over until the fat Lady Sings or sinks
Nick nice bit of photos! Especially enjoyed the ones of the track guages. Wonder if I could ever incorporate that into the MESS as a dock scene? Eastern Canada had multiple guages (Newfoundland).
Yes and thank You Tom… For reminding me of our beloved $$$$ as it is down to
$.84 US. Yes say it isn’t so! Good Thing we kept our trip to Ontario as a trip across the border would have been prohibitive. Gas this morning in Halifax is at $1.07 / litre
Shane: If your going to talk about Deer in that manner then we should think about having some deer steaks served up one of these days…SOON!
Pete: Glad you found the time to drop in from your busy drinking traveling schedule! Do us all proud!
Eric: Sorry to here about your woes! Been reading about other issues on the MR site. Take heart you are not the only one with issues but also the issues are slowly resolving themselves as the bugs are ironed out.
Allen: Yes it took a bit of time bit I am here and firmly plated! Despite what Tom threatens me with!
And NO I am not one of Bergie’s disciples! I just like it here.
Any gents I have a few matters to attend to this afternoon so I'm outta here
Fergie
http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=5959
If one could roll back the hands of time... They would be waiting for the next train into the future. A. H. Francey 1921-2007
Let's get right to it:
Page 49 – Fergie <Fergmiester> at 11:18 AM <1:18 PM ADT>:
Well, well - looks like Fergie figured out how to make a Post <again> to the bar on this Friday! Noticed a screwed up one <perish the thought on these new 'n improved Forums> then apparently deleted - then a reappearance. Can't hide from our surveillance crew <gotcha>! <grin>
From the appearance of your Post, sure looks like a formatting "thing" has impacted you as well. <uh oh>
Hey! We don't refer to anyone's proper names when defaming them 'round here. <geesh> The last thing we need is for you or anyone to bring down the "wrath" of the LOCKMASTER upon our humble abode. After all, we were LOCKED at 63 <old count> when the rest of the Forums went unscathed.
Where in the world did YOU get THAT notion anyway
I don't follow the exchange rates between our countries UNLESS planning a trip. It's a far cry from the $1.55 against the Canadian Loonie a few summers ago . . . that stuff is really for the banks who deal in milliions not the likes of Moi who dibbles 'n dabbles. BUT of course, you being deep into the international hobby trade . . . <grin>
Corned beef on rye with waffle fries Good Gawd Gertie, the man DOES have a cast iron gut! <yikes>
Many thanx for the good cheer, visit 'n business!
Take care BROTHER Fergie . . . see ya in church! <uh oh>
Oh yeah, took me 3 edits just to get the "brown" portion squared away for formatting transfer . . .
Good afternoon Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. I'm trying out all sorts of things with the forum and most of them seem to be working. Hey, Awk, what does this button do?
I read the accounts of last night's hoorah in the Boston Whizbang this morning. They had a nice set of 62 pictures so I feel like I didn't miss all that much.
Buffalo paper had a somewhat sad story yesterday about how the the B&P hopes to bandon 28 miles of track between Orchard Park and West Valley, NY. A quote says, "Affected would be 27.6 miles of track...from just north of ...Orchard Park to West Valley in Cayyaraugus County." The track passes through Aurora, Colden, and Concord (and close to mom's home place. The last train ran in 1997. The last picutre I got along there was of a trio of SD45s(!) There was a big flood and washouts after that and that was the end of everything.
For those who are ferroequinological classicists (affter all we must use big words since this are a new forum (lol)) this line was orriginally part of the dearly beloved Buffalo, Rochester & Pittsburgh (one of my all-time favorites) and then part of the B&O. The Buffalo&Pittsburgh, the current owner, is part of Genesee & Wyoming. There is a lot of hisotry along the right of way if you know where to look so guess what I'll be doing while up there later this year.
OK, Boris, time for a story, MILW 261 ran a special train over the line, and I had the experience of watching a faverish railfan bury his SUV in a cornffield when what he thought to be was a road to get closer to the tracks turned out to be a mud wallow - this happened after he drove in a most alarming and erratic manner to get there,
Well better wind this up - happy weekend to all. Go Sox!
work safe
Here's something not seen at the bar 'n presented for the enjoyment of our customers AND to continue testing the format exchange from Word to the Forums . . .
France
TGV trainsets are manufactured primarily by Alstom, now often with the involvement of a subcontractor, such as Bombardier. Except for a small series of TGVs used for postal freight between Paris, Lyon and Provence, the TGV is primarily a passenger service. Trains derived from TGV designs operate in South Korea (KTX), Spain (AVE) and USA (ACELA Express). <from: wikipedia.com>
For remainder of narrative, click the link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TGV
For additional narrative, click the link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/InterCityExpress
Namely Tōkaidō Shinkansen is the world's busiest high-speed rail and carries 375,000 passengers a day. Though largely a long-distance transport system, the Shinkansen also serves a few regular commuters who travel to work into metropolitan areas from cities beyond the metropolitan areas. <from: wikipedia.com>
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shinkansen
Enjoy!
Here's something NOT seen at the bar 'n presented for the enjoyment of our customers. Also trying to find out if my format compatibility between Word 'n the Forums is on the right track . . .
TGV trainsets are manufactured primarily by Alstom, now often with the involvement of a subcontractor, such as Bombardier. Except for a small series of TGVs used for postal freight between Paris, Lyon and Provence, the TGV is primarily a passenger service. Trains derived from TGV designs operate in South Korea (KTX), Spain (AVE) and USA (ACELA Express).
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I've spent the better part of TWO hours totally wasted in trying to get a pre-prepared Post to transfer from Word to the Forums. Totally useless . . . lots of time blown. So, for those who say "all is fine" or "it works for me" - I say: depends on what you are trying to do. For the simple narrative with NO Fotos or graphics, perhaps. And IF you're not into colors ‘n different font sizes - perhaps. But it just isn't working for Moi. So, unless ‘n until something changes for the better - I'm afraid things are going to be drastically scaled down from my end of things.
I see we have another "happy" customer - so let's get right to it <wonder how many times it will take for me to get this "simple" acknowledgment to transpose from Word to the Forums <barf> THIS IS NOT FUN.
Page 49 – CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 3:46 PM <4:46 PM EDT>: Good to see ya twice in one daylite period!
Comments above refer to "most of them seem to be working."
The bright note on this day <for Moi> is that work has proceeded exceedingly well with the "big dig" - given no interruptions, looks like a mid-week finish. I'm impressed . . .
Sorry, but I'm just not of a mind to chit-chat - so let me simply offer my continuing thanx for your support for what we're trying to achieve ‘round here!
And yes, GO SOX!
Bon weekend, mon ami!
Eric. Sorry to hear about your page problem, luckily I already had Windows browser version 8 but still find it a lot slower to load the pages just now, hope you can resolve the problem.
Nick. Good to see you. A very nice selection of Brit railway pix from you once again.
CM3. Glad you`ve mastered the changes to the site. A very interesting bit of news on the B&P RR track abandonment and the MILW 261 railfan happening.
Fergie. Good job you had some navigating training, this site needs a lot more finesse reading the charts.
Tom. Good to hear the work is progressing steadily, sounds as if you`ve got a couple of walking wounded but at least they are getting results. One of my mates said that age was a state of mind, but the body wo`nt listen. Would love to do the flicks but would not be able to upload the posters, anyway you are doing a 1st class job of it, and as the old saying goes "If it works, do`nt fix it!" Sounds as if the new site is causing quite a bit of frustration, it takes a heck of a long time to load the pages down here at the moment, hope it`s just a minor hiccup with it being new and just needs a bit of fine tuning?
Good evening Leon. Lets see a CR with a Keith's chaser if you don't mind. I'll leave an extra twenty for a round as well.
Tom- I have to say I'm still not in love with this new system. I haven't got a post to work from word yet,so I'm back to just typing in the "post" box and hoping that it does not get eaten by gremlins.
Nice to hear that the basement dig is comming along well,it will be nice when your is dry as a desert again.
This was the first election that I worked , the money such as it was went into the Christmas shopping jar.As frightening as that is we're basically at two months and counting now. They paid us twelve bucks an hour to basically sit on our butts so what the heck.
When I went to the station on Thursday night to shoot the you know what and collect my prise from John,I noticed that VIA finnally bit the bullet and dug up the foundation of the station to address a long standing leak and sagging,new footings and reatining wall inplace and they were just waiting to remove the concrete forms and fill the hole back in.
Fergie-Yes I did get my prise last night . Thank-you sir.John only made me buy three Atlas two bay covered hoppers to get it. It is a nice little shop too bad they are on the closing stages. The other little shop in the city is in a guys garage.He is an electronics guy so his shop is mostly the electronic gizmo's and gadgets and high end craftsman kits. I know all up your alley but he's not open on Sunday's.
The corridor trains are what they are I suppose but they are usually on time + or - 15 minutes.They never are high on service , unless you pay the extra for VIA one. i find the run from Brantford to Toronto isn't long enough to merrit the extra cash.
Allan-Yes the new forums quirks are a tad trying but we shall over come.
Pete-Nice to see you in briefly, hope your having a whale of a time.
Nice to see Eric and Shane in with comments as well.Kept as a busy as possible which is a good thing to quote a Martha Stewartism.
Nick-Loved the latest batch of photo's sir.Some great looking steam and the shiot of the commuter train absolutly popped off the page,a ton of detail.
Rob
All right Leon I'm back for a refill.I'll drop off a couple more photo's for everyone to ponder.
Here's a cringe worthy photo. this wrap is not near as attactive as the Budwiser one, it was however the number two unit on our trip on the Ocean in 2006.
A shortline shot in Sault Ste Marie (2002)
A unique workcar at the Rockhill Trolley museum.This is a single truck workcar from Oproto Portugeal.
Museum shot.
Leon, just give me a cup of coffee, please! No, not tonite!
My first plan for tonight was to catch up on everything that happened here this week, but there was too much problems,too much frustrations so I have to postpone it another day or so. You think that when they are "upgrading/updating" something things should improve, get better, easier, more fun. But I guess that is not what the goal is/was. I certainly don't understand them.
So I will not spend too much time here tonight, but before I go I will post something very classic. I've have shown it before, but it is worth a rerun!
I'll also show this view from a former classic railroad station, Union Station, St. Louis.
As has been the practice at "Our" Place when the Pages reach a "multiple of ten" we remind our visitors of a bit of history regarding the bar, how we do things ‘n the URLs for LOCKED Threads . . . So, here we are at Page 50 <inflated thanx to the Forum CHANGE!> - but 50 nonetheless.
"Our" Place III was locked today by Kalmbach, so "Our" Place IV has begun on this 31st day of July 2008.
PAGES: 63 <84 inflated>
"Our" Place I <originally LOCKED on 31 Dec 2006, at Page 451 BEFORE Format change of Oct 15th, 2008 - new Page is 601.
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/35270.aspx?PageIndex=601
"Our" Place II <originally LOCKED on 21 Mar 2008, at Page 201 BEFORE Format change- new Page is 267.
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/83765.aspx?PageIndex=267
"Our" Place III <originally LOCKED on July 31st, 2008 at Page 63 BEFORE Format change - new Page is 84.
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/122422.aspx?PageIndex=84
What's different Nothing! Same crew, same way of doing things and hopefully the same supporting cast that has kept us afloat all this time.
History: "Our" Place began on April 12th, 2005 on the General Discussion (Classic Trains) Forum.
Concept: An adult bar & grill for all who are interested in and familiar with "Classic Trains."
The conversations are as they would be in a neighborhood bar, where people know one another and share stories, photos and other information relevant to the idea of the Forum - Classic Trains.
All of this with some humor thrown in and the rest is simple.
Objective: Have fun!
Ground rules: Leave ALL emotional baggage and "attitudes" on the front porch.
Be inclusive with your comments through the acknowledgment of the other guy's efforts. Hit ‘n run Posts are not welcome.
It's Saturday ‘n hopefully a better day for the Proprietor in trying to right the ship after the broadside from a few days back . . .
Petrol prices are falling - "they" say we'll be at $2.50 pretty soon. Temps are wunnerful - blue skies - just a fine day!
Join us for breakfast - pastries ‘n our freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee!
Page 49 – Allan <Gunneral> at 8:11 PM <2:11 PM Saturday NZ DST>: Yeah, figured you'd let me "keep" the Emporium Theatre listings job! <grin> Good to see ya, Mate - hope all's well in downunder terriortory!
Still would luv to land an Aussie for the bar - kinda round things out, plus those I've met ‘n associated with over my working years were just great people - as have been the Kiwi-crowd I've told you about <especially one particular brunette at the LA Consul's office - but that's for another place ‘n time! <grin> <oooooooooops>
So, what's to say other than things are proceeding well with the "big dig" - weather is grand - life is good!
Only thing that is most bothersome is this trying to figure out how to ‘n what to regarding these CHANGES to the Forums. Still say it all depends on WHAT one does when it comes to saying "no problem for me." As those of you know from years at this bar, my Posts are pretty much labor-intensive ‘n therefore require all kinds of particular effort with font - color - graphics ‘n Fotos. If one simply sticks to the narrative with an occasional Pix - no sweat. Not the case for Moi. Just regret ‘n resent the enormous amount of my time totally blown this week thanx to this upheaval . . . <barf> BUT, I do recognize it is my choice. So as long as we've got an interested nucleus to help keep things going here at the bar - life goes on. <groan>
Thanx for the visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Pages 49-50 – Rob <trolleyboy> at 11:02 PM ‘n 11:28 PM <12:02 AM ‘n 12:28 AM Saturday EDT>: And our Manager has slipped in before the bewitching hour - returning <I presume> from either a busy night at the "plant" OR an evening's worth of Molly Throttlebottom in the mud wrestling pit. <uh oh>
I don't know what they pay the old farts who attend to matters on Election Day in these parts - but my guess it's sufficient to justify them tearing away from their TV sets or whatever OFs do with their time. <grin> Moi Hey! Seventy ain't quite there yet to qualify as an OF!
Okay - so what's the "prize" you received from Fergie via John I mean, what is this - let's keep a secret at the bar <geesh>
So, you're putting the blame on VIA Rail for perhaps decades worth of deterioration to a building they had no involvement with at the get-go Hmmmmm. Yeah, I know where you're coming from - buy it ‘n it's all YOURS - past, present ‘n future. <uh oh> Tells me this though - once you begin seeing signs that station repair is underway, there may be POSITIVE movement with their budget. Down here, stations are at the bottom of the list for expenditures - below the rung, so to speak . . .
Concur with your comment regarding VIA1 - short hauls make no sense. I figure that for a 5 hour trip, it's worth it to me. But an hour or two - nahhhhhh.
Some fine shots <large> with great clarity ‘n detail! Was it really 2006 when you made that trip Don't know why, but thought it was just the "other day." Time flies . . .
HBR loco ‘n work car are truly <keepers>!
Saw your Post over on "my other Thread." Figgered every now 'n then I'd make a "plug" for the bar . . . Doesn't appear we're making any headway, BUT gotta keep trying, eh
Many thanx for the two-fer, chat, Fotos ‘n ROUND!
Page 50 – Eric <EricX2000> at 1:21 AM <11:21 PM Sandbox time>: First - thanx for the Email, appreciate the insights!
The Milwaukee Road Bi-Polar at StL MoT ‘n the shot at StL Union Station are brilliant in terms of clarity ‘n detail. Those LARGE images bring out the best, eh <grin>
I think the latter was taken at our Rendezvous II in 2007. Looking to the background you can see our Amtrak train waiting for you, Doug, Pete ‘n Moi for our 3 PM departure for Springfield, IL. The CMSTPP shot cudda been either Rendezvous here, but I'll stick with 2007. Correct
Appreciate the visit, Fotos ‘n ROUND!
Reminder: Cindyhas the bar until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Good Day to You Cap'n Tom and Crew
Keith's Please with an open tab for da boys
Well that's about 2/3rds of a Chord piled today along with some "ship's husbandry".
Tom: Glad your basement problem is being addressed. No need for you to fill your own grave, let the pros do it for ya!!
Eric: glad to see you're settling in and have provided us with some fine foto's!
Rob: Good to see you got your prize! If you notice there are three "nick's" in the brim, not to worry they all come that way, just ask Tom Though yours is different from his as there was a promo "buy a 15 pack of Keith's and get one free or should I say buy one and get a 15 pack free... Ya that works better, I don't sound so cheap!!
Allan: Yes navigating training does help but in all honesty I am what you call a "Button Masher". Push it until something happens or smoke is produced. I've perfected this technique after many years of trying to unserstand english versions of Japanese Electronic Navigation Manuals, normally they just get thrown out the window for a float test... They have all failed!
Shane: Yes another line becomes a faint memory turned to dust or a Rail trail. Sad state of affairs especially as RR's may be our salvation in saving fuel and stall the trend of "Global Climate Change". I know lets not open that kettle of fish!
and now a little something to wet your appetite
Later All
Well good afternoon gentlemen all-Missisnick & siblings have just schlepped up to the pub for a few scoops so I thought I would touch base with you guys for an hour or two and get caught up....
Cindy-take for a round for the guys please,one for yourself-and what the heck-I`ll spring for steaks for any as wants `em
Right-gonna drop a couple of pix on ya then go and catch up--BTW-got all the track pinning done on friday and managed to replace the rogue turnout at SHANE`s law Jn today....-just got to rig the replacement motor(completely different design-like the PECO model) and we are cooking on gas ..
A Irish selection to start-modern diesel,antique 4&6 wheel coaches,timeless scenery on the Courtmacsharry roadside tramway c1960
Sugar beet traffic-poss. the same line and timeframe
Same engine-poss same line-summer excursion traffic.
Narrow gauge whimsy-County Donegal railcar on sunday church run
O.K-back in a bit
Sorry Boyz, but I've been at this Post for nearly an HOUR - over 10 times with absolutely NO LUCK in getting it right. Cannot transfer from Word to the Forums without having formatting inaccuracies. Looks okay in "preview" but awful when it Posts. And that's my fault???? Ha! What a bunch o' crap . . .
Had my Saturday RANDOM FOTOS to show - but decided if I can't get 'em the way I WANT THEM, screw it.
I'm done for this day . . .
Thanx to Fergie 'n Nick for some daylite activity - at least there's something worth looking at!
O.K then-lets play catch up-Cindy ,I`ll have another Carling please sweet thing-ahh bless you .
ROB-Curse the stars says I -and will say it again and again until I get all of them --Card buildings -These ones are from the `Superquick` range and have been around since the `60`s-designed as `pocket money` kits for junior modellers ,they go about $5 a pack ,cover all sorts of designs from both sides of the boundary fence and take about 30--60 minutes to assemble on a tea-tray whilst watching the tube-white glue and 3/4 clothes pegs are all you need-unbeatable value-make perfect stand ins until you can build something better -Typing-big fingers-well you know what they say about chaps with big fingers...............Pix-That `Bud`F.P40 looks rather well to my eye-a Bud pulling Budds....sorry -rather less `sold` on the #920-a right mixed bag on the tail also.........The Spadina trolley and old #45 make a fab contrast............
TOM-Stick with it old thing-I guess you are having the worst of it with this changeover-I don`t have WORD so I am spared the worst of that irritation-R.E switch motors etc-will send more on the back channel.....--thanks for the heads-up on changes to the back catalogue-cant help but feel that certain parties should adhere to the basic rule-if it aint f****d -dont fix it...-good news on the dig front-sounds like you have a decent crew on board there-wholly approve the notion of a `little something for themselves`-just make sure it goes directly into their hands-have been stiffed a time or two like that-spoils the whole memory of the job-plus you can never trust the boss again......P.S-glad you are enjoying the pix-in truth,having the opportunity to make and share them here is helping maintain the momentum -eventually I hope to have things to the stage where I can present stuff as other than a work-in-progress of the most basic kind
FERGIE-As above-thanks for kind words re pix-you make a valid point-us Brits do tend to concentrate on the railway at the expense of the landscape-number of reasons-real estate ,both in the macro-we are a small country ( you could drop the U.K into New York State and have room left over for staging tracks) and the micro-we dont have basements to build our empires-spare rooms,garages etc are more our playground so we tend to pack a lot into a small space-My train shed has a usable area of 15`x10` for example and is a reasonable medium sized space... Also-and possibly more subtle-our right of way is all fenced off,which provides a clear boundary between train & town-an interesting point to raise---Thanks for the trip report-always good to hear other peoples viewpoint,,,mixed gauge-aha-the slippery slope-it will start with a mixed gauge siding on the wharf-then a broad gauge boxcar to sit at the end of it,next thing you will be fighting for eminent domain to build the Big MESS B/G short line into the next room
Right,gonna post this little lot then,if the kids don`t come back,start on the next section
BRB
Good afternoon Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Cindy, I did my best to make it in here before you are laeving for the day. Good to see you! Yes, I would like a #3 with mashed potatoes and a cold Keith's, please.
Ha, more daylite activities! Don't leave just yet! We'll see if this will work.Hmm, have they removed the possibility to change the color of the text?
Tom – Sorry to learn that you are having problems post getting your post the way you want it. But I'm not surprised considering the "upgrade" of this forum.
You are right, both pictures were taken during Rendezvous II in 2007. I didn’t remember that we left for Springfield that late, 3 PM. I remember we came back just in time for the sunset though. Fergie – I don’t know if I would say I have settled in. It is a lot of guesswork putting together a post because most of the page is “gone” while I am typing and adding pictures. It’s like looking through the keyhole in a door. A CN- and a UP-locomotive working in multiple. Hmmm, I have no clue but my guess is somewhere in Canada, in the fall, a west bound train (or maybe northwest). Hmmm, the easiest guess would be Halifax, but I don’t believe that. I think it is somewhere not too far from Niagara Falls. Nick – Interesting photos! Antique 4&6 wheel coaches? I guess the 6 wheel ones have three axles, correct?Whimsy-County Donegal railcar looks familiar. I have probably seen it before in a picture. Some photos in no particular order. Most of them have been shown before
Classic locomotive.
Philadelphia.
The Black Bag and Pete.
Kirkwood, MO.
Somewhere in Nevada, 1981.
RTL on track 16, Union Station, Washington D.C. 1992.
SPECIAL FOR TOM-IS IT WORTH SENDING THE LOCKMASTER A MESSAGE ASKING HOW TO GET THIS THING TO WORK-I KNOW IT MIGHT SEEM LIKE GIVING GROUND,BUT GIVEN THE AMOUNT OF GRIEF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING.................JUST A THOUGHT MATE
P.S-COME AND SIT BY HERE MATE,THERES A STEAK ON ITS WAY AND A BOTTLE OF BRANDY I WOULD VALUE YOUR OPINION ON..........
Lets have us a quiet hour away from the hurly-burly and grab some quality time......
Now you mentioned music and CPR-there is an interesting topic-lets see if we can flesh it out a little-(as it were...)-now music is measured (as I`m sure you know) in BPM-beats per minute-generally `happy` songs are at a greater BPM multiple than the resting heartbeat-and usually in a major key,`sad`songs at a lower BPM multiple and in a minor key-now the two examples you mentioned are perfect examples-Stayin` alive is not only the right tempo but is also what is referred to as a `4 on the floor` I.E- the bass drum marks all 4 beats of every bar-is designed to be a dance floor number but at a measured pace-the queen one is broadly the same but with frills-(1st bar 3 bass drum beats,2 half snare drum,2nd bar- 2 bass drum,2 snare half beats,1 bass drum) and so on
Right-the kids are back-gotta go play genial host-apologies to those I havn`t got too yet-should be back to normal transmission by tomorrow night-hang in there guys-they havn`t beaten us yet ....
take care now
Rob. Good to see you mate. A fine set of train and trolley pix including the Telus green monster loco.
Eric. Great to see you mastering the difficulties of the new site with a fine selection of pix from the Rendezvous including one of Pete with his famous (infamous?) black bag, a very nice sunset shot of the Arch in St L too, and all of your other fine shots, they are really great.
Fergie. I reckon we should all get a navigators ticket for getting onto the new site. Sorry can`t pick where the CN loco is?
Nick. Good to see you in. A very nice selection of Irish trains from your extensive collection, the County Donegal railcar is a real classic to be sure, to be sure! How about a traditional English breakfast with some Ulster bacon?
Tom. Very sorry to hear of your problems with posting on the new site, hopefully things will get easier in time as we get used to it`s anomalies, with me not posting any pix i`m not having the same frustrations that you are having at the moment. Stay with it mate! A very fine shot of the Budd Via Rail double bedroom interior. Your great programmes of flicks at the Mentor Cinema are very much appreciated, as Nick stated "If it aint` broke, do`nt fix it!" Keep your fingers crossed and an Aussie participant will turn up sometime soon?
. . . . Above should be on TWO lines and centered . . . 5 tries is ENUF! <barf>
Another Sunday at this CLOSED bar ‘n time to spend a relaxing day doing things OP-SHUN-UL rather than REQUIRED! <grin> Ahhhhhhh.
Comments from the Proprietor
Formatting difficulties are plaguing me ‘n forcing CHANGE to the way I prefer to do things. Can't be devoting HOURS to accomplish that which used to take half that time. Especially maddening when the pre-prepared material pretty much has to be done over and it STILL doesn't format properly.
So what's the major complaint Cannot transfer from Word to the Forums without losing font sizes, margins, colors, Foto ‘n narrative description placement. Have two ‘puters - no difference on either. Both are current with Explorer ‘n Word - sooooooo, makes for an exasperating experience . . . <barf>
For those of you who prepare directly on the Forums - you've noticed there's no longer margin selection - color chart ‘n font sizes. So, it appears that the resolution to all of this is pending . . . I hope!
Page 50 – Fergie <Fergmiester> at 2:50 PM <4:50 PM ADT>: What have you done, put a "chastity belt lock" on the ‘puter keyboard Apparently no one else has been using it, for I've notice you've been rather "active" lately - double-digit Postings on many days. Bring back the STARS! <grin>
Anyway, appreciate the Saturday daytime visit - thought we'd be in perpetual drought, but there you were!
Regarding your Foto: Appears to be a UP unit behind the lead CN. Hmmmmm, perhaps not in Canada, but maybe the States - Illinois perhaps Can't be more specific - that's "it" for me.
My, my - times must have changed since my days on the bridge. Japanese manuals Good Gawd Gertie - that wasn't the case in "my day." But then the sky was full o' Pterodactyls, eh <grin>
You most probably MISSED my Posting of the hats ‘n mug you sent me. Figgers - the boyz have all seen ‘em - just click the link:
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/133683.aspx?PageIndex=23
If for some reason you can't find "it" - go to Page 23 ‘n scroll DOWN!!! to my Post of Sep 21st at 9:21 AM <CDT> . . . .
Visit, chat, Foto ‘n open bar appreciated!
Page 50 – Nick <nickinwestwales> at 3:07 PM ‘n 4:18 PM <9:07 PM ‘n 10:18 PM GMT>: To say it's surprising to see you on a Saturday afternoon is one thing - but especially in light of your household full o' visitors! Really going full bore to pick up the slack ‘round here ‘n it came at the RIGHT TIME! My perseverance is being stretched to the limit . . . <arrrrggggghhhhh>
Fotos came thru "loud ‘n clear" - some new, some not - all most welcome! Noted that the Forum "reduction" didn't take hold this time. Hmmmmmm. Sometimes does, sometimes doesn't . . .
My guess is "they" say the same ‘bout "lil' guys" as they do regarding those with big fingers. It's all a myth! <grin>
When we tip at restaurants, most times <not all> the tip is in CASH ‘n handed to our server <aka: waiter/waitress>. Over here, income tax is extracted from TIPS - so the owners have to provide the IRS with some sort of a baseline to work with. I figger by giving the help CASH it keeps them from being penalized. Know from where you are coming, Mate! <groan>
When an establishment prepares my bill with a tip included - and it is computed with the tax included - then I get my "back up." But that's another story . . .
In eavesdropping, I've always come away with the notion that the Brit landscape nearby railways is immaculate in comparison with what we see over here. Perception is reality- noooooooooot! <grin>
As always, many thanx for your support for the bar ‘n always interesting material for the crew!
Page 50 – Eric <EricX2000> at 4:32 PM <2:32 PM Sandbox time>: Very pleased to see our Sandman make it "in" with a fine bill o' fare for this day!
Oh yeah, we departed at 3 PM for Springfield back in 2007 - had roughly a 10 minute turn around before the Eagle arrived to return us to St. Louis. The infamous "soda in the black bag" trip! <grin> <groan>
I see some of your Fotos were automatically downsized, whereas others weren't. Puzzling phenom with this new CHANGE. I like the idea of having ‘em downsized for "clicking" . . . makes sense. Problem is, I'm not seeing any "standard" evolve. For example, yesterday when I totally threw in the towel after double-digit attempts at getting out what used to be a simple Saturday Random Foto Post - I noted that some were downsized - others not, but it would vary from attempt to attempt to attempt. Nuts.
Do appreciate the Email!
Thanx for the visit, chat, Fotos ‘n ROUND! Your daytime Post really means a lot for the way we like to do things!
Page 50 – Nick <nickinwestwales> at 4:56 PM <10:56 PM GMT>: Thanks for the morale<not moral> support! Yeah, I‘ve considered an Email, but figure the guy is inundated with complaints about this ‘n that. I'd rather beat my head against the <censored> wall ‘n try to figure this out myself! <yikes> Also, we're NOT in good stead with this fellow - so, what's the point It's FREE - we're GUESTS - so be it. If we were involved with a pay service, that would be a totally different matter as I view it.
I've also be kept apprised of efforts being made by Eric to get his situation straightened out. Some pretty good responses from the LOCKMASTER to our Sandman. Hmmmmm - both have same first names! Hmmmmmmm. Anyway, I've asked Eric - at some future point - to put together a "brief" for our <GoR> by Email on what's going on with the CHANGE ‘n associated adverse impact for some of us. Stay tuned . . .
Glad you picked up on the "Stayin' Alive" thing . . . and appreciated the elaboration <aka: explanation!> Can you imagine being the victim ‘n listening to "Another one bites the dust" as the CPR procedure moves along <grin>
Steak, brandy, good chat ‘n cheer - what could be better, eh Welllll, for starters - that brunette over there . . . <uh oh>
Page 50 – Allan <Gunneral> at 8:17 PM <2:17 PM Sunday NZ DST>: Many thanx for the visit - all helps to keep this joint afloat!
I've always prided myself on being a "work hard, play hard" kinda guy. Add to that - work SMART. Well, now I'm finding that I no longer can do the things I would like to do in an intelligent ‘n efficient manner. That just frosts my caboose - big time. It's not something I wish to keep doing. If I can't jump the <censored> hurdle or go around it or under it - well . . . If one thing has come out of this is the adage that "one size fits all" is as much of a myth as my above comment to Nick! <grin>
Next up for this day are the Emporium Theatre selections - and I'm NOT looking forward to spending gobs of time formatting them again ‘n again ‘n again ‘til they "take." <barf>
Do appreciate your continuing support for what we do ‘round here ‘n of course the good cheer AND endless supply of Tui!
<St. Louis Southwestern 2-6-0 Loco #326 - courtesy yesteryeardepot.com - foto: Paul L. Eilenberger>
PLOT SUMMARY:
Based on a celebrated novel by German author Willi Heinrich, the film is set at the Russian front circa 1943, as the Germans are retreating before the Soviet army. We follow corporal Coburn (in what may be his best performance), a German soldier--not a Nazi--who "hates this uniform and everything it stands for." Loyal only to his men, a tight-knit group of soldiers fighting for their survival, Coburn finds his nemesis in his new commander, captain Schell--an arrogant, narcissistic Prussian aristocrat who desperately wants to come home with an Iron Cross, Germany's highest honor for bravery, but who is terrified of battle. Since Coburn comes highly recommended by other commanders and has already been awarded the Iron Cross himself, Schell promotes him to sergeant in the hope of winning an ally. After a siege on their compound in which many brave men die while Schell cowers in his bunker, Coburn learns that the captain has filed a false report claiming that he led the counterattack--a deed certain to earn an Iron Cross. When Coburn refuses to confirm Schell's claims (he also resists calling him a liar, which would indicate reverence for a medal he considers worthless), Schell plots to dispose of the troublesome sergeant and his men.
Slap Shot <1977>
Paul Newman and his Butch Cassidy director, George Roy Hill, made a very original comedy in this 1977 story of an over-the-hill player/coach (Newman) for a lousy hockey team who gets results when he teaches his players to get dirty. One of the most hilariously profane movies ever to come out of Hollywood, this is the kind of film that makes its own rules as it goes along. Newman is very good, and while Hill goes for the gusto in terms of capturing the violence of this world, his instinct for comedy has never been sharper. Great support from Strother Martin, Paul Dooley, and the rest. --Tom Keogh
The Killer Dillons plan to rob the Red Dog Saloon, so the U.S. Cavalry needs three men to foil their plans. Who else are sent but the Stooges, who are horse groomers. They disguise as desperadoes and run into the Dillons. The boys' cover is blown and a chase begins. With the help of barmaid Nell, the Killer Dillons are defeated.
Enjoy the weekend!
Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!
Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter