"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

TUESDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS

We open at 6 AM all time zones! (Don’t ask how we do that!)[swg]


Good Morning! What better way to start the day than to try some of our pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery with a cup of our freshly brewed coffee. Oh yes, we are now serving <traditional> and <light> breakfasts, check ‘em out on our Menu Board![tup]

See page 208 for the current issue of The Mentor Village Gazette


Daily Wisdom

90% of the game is half mental. (Yogi-ism)


Info for the Day:

(1) repeat Free 2006 HOOTERS calendar:
click here - http://right-mind.us/blogs/blog_0/archive/2005/12/22/39853.aspx

(2) repeat Friday, January 6th is the Birthday Bash! for CM3. Stop by during the morning or early afternoon to wish our friend and permanent member of the Order of the Stools a belated [bday] for his 59th!


SUMMARY

Name …..…………… Date/Time …..…..………. (Page#) .. Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 00:27:43 (208) Monday’s Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 00:47:34 (208) Mentor Village Gazette

(3) jlampke John Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 01:22:22 (208) Inclusive Post!, etc.

(4) West Coast S Dave Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 01:27:22 (208) Rose trains, etc.

(5) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 08:19:19 (208) Good grief!

(6) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 09:24:00 (208) Acknowledgment, etc.

(7) ftwNSengineer P Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 10:09:07 (208) Good grief!

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 11:52:25 (208) Acknowledgments, etc.

(9) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 13:44:07 (208) Inclusive Post!, etc.

(10) passengerfan Al Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 13:49:54 (208) He lives!

(11) jlampke John Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 14:57:10 (208) etc.

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 15:03:39 (208) reply to: Theodorebear & passengerfan

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 15:03:39 (209) reply to: jlampke

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2006, 16:12:02 (209) NOSTALGIA #51 – Ad - CP (1963)

(15) West Coast S Dave Posted: 02 Jan 2005, 18:56:43 (209) Contrition! – etc.

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 02 Jan 2005, 21:54:07 (209) reply to West Coast S, etc.

(17) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 02 Jan 2005, 23:19:59 (209) Inclusive Post! etc.

(18) jlampke John Posted: 02 Jan 2005, 23:22:30 (209) URL of URLs! etc.

(19) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 02 Jan 2005, 23:43:28 (209) Ad – CN (1929)

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 02 Jan 2005, 23:48:04 (209) etc.

(21) siberianmo Tom Posted: 03 Jan 2005, 00:18:45 (209) Acknowledgments, etc.

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[Anonymous]

Good morning to all you "oily Birds what catches da woims." Just a glass of Grapefruit juice, a toasted Bagle w/cream cheese and a cuppa Folger's if you please, Tom. Rob good fellow, glad to see ya and the "mail" isn't important, just a New Years greeting. Sure appreciate the Peter Witt and P.C.C. Encores from last week.[^] The Canadian National "flash back" to 1929 should "jolt" the memory banks for many of us. However, few may remember that C.N. held the record for the most trackage in the Americas for years on end. John, what a neat URL on the W.P. (originally, if I recall) "Donner Pass." I'll refer back to it often as the histroy behind that Herculean effort is a rail saga all to its' own.[tup] The maps are incredible as well. Ironic that the builders of the Great Wall of China would also build the "Chinese Wall" in the New World, isn't it?[:O] West Coast Dave, good point on the insidious methods the "New World Order" employs to permeate every facet of "mainstream media" coverage from Iraq to Pasedena...Big Brother? Okay Tom, my turn at the whipping post.[soapbox]

Hey, if anyone would like to have some fun with cyber layout planning and operations, check out these URLs: www.trainplayer.com and www.railop.com. I'm just getting "into it" now and it shows promise for some previously discussed layout plans, et al. Now, if this is "old hat" from a previous Post, I realize it will be "off with his head!"[xx(] Any case, maybe a refresh wouldn't hurt. BTW, some "feed back" would be appreciated from those involved in the modeling side of "Our" Place.[bow] Okay Boris, we have a lot to do before Friday the 6th, CM3's [bday]... BONG....Give me strength.[:(!] Happy rails folks.

[coalminer3]

Good Morning Barkeep and all present; coffee, please, ropund for the house and $ for the jukebox. WVU beat Georgia (with a fake punt, yet - sheesh)

I am in training (therapy?) for my upcoming birthday bash. I don't worry abt. my associates, but I do always sit with my back to the wall.

Lots of interesting posts over the past few days. Here's two more for the short list of all-time great train pictures. Emperor of the North, and North by Northwest. Maybe we can have a movie night at the bar sometime. Danger Lights is a great film to begin with.

I was looking through some of the prvious entries and the remark abt a buffer car on the Ft. Erie Race train caught my eye, also the use of parlor cars. The New Haven for years ran trains to the Narragansett Raceway, not too far from Providence. The thought behind this was that they might as well use the cars that were gathering dust during the day. I have a handbill somewhere in my material which has a picture of a New Haven I5 pulling a race train - artistic license probably. The trains and the race track are both long gone, although my sainted grandmother spent many an afternoon there. If you recall the wire shop in "The Sting," Naragansett is mentioned.

Interestingly, trains operate to the NE Patriots games and do quite well as many folks choose not to deal with the traffic on I-95 b4 and after a game. I also noticed something about the 1958 Giants-Colts game (still a sore subject with some of us).

Speaking of special trains, I recall being in Reno one time and waiting the catch a train to head back east. Those of you who have been there (pre-trench days) recall that you can see a long way to the west. I spotted a headlight and realizing that it was too early for my train, thought I'd see if I could get a picture. It turned out to be a pair of SP units with a ragtag bunch of SP coaches. The doors opened and the horde detrained and headed through the station and up the street toward the casinos. I asked one of the crew what it was and he shook his head and said, "It's the Reno Fun Train; we load 'em on in San Francisco and unload 'em here - we only sell round trip tickets."

On a more serious note, we are waiting to see what's going on with the 13 men in Upshur County; there's a lot of my friends involved with the rescue effort and our thought and prayers are with the miners underground and with the rescue crews - there's so much that can go wrong with so little warning.

work safe

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

I wanted to hold off making mention of the WVA situation regarding the miners either trapped or lost underground. Now that CM3 has commented I'm sure there are those here who are doing their best to think only positive thoughts ..... Can't imagine the nightmare of it all.

Brief acknowledgment to Ted for the morning visit. Those game URLs brought to mind a gift I still have in an unopened box from about 5 Christmases ago. I'm not "into" those kinds of things, but my son keeps buying computer games in hopes that one day my mind will surely turn to mush. [swg] A good re-gift someday! <grin> Oh [yeah] it's called "Railroad Tycoon - Platinum."

CM3 I was beginning to wonder whether you'd mention the Gazette in your Post - but alas you didn't. However, there was an oblique reference when you mentioined the 1958 NFL Championship game. I was a Giants fan back then - so I share your pain. [swg]

Movies[?] We've had one of two movie nights in conjunction with other "goings on" 'round here. There are three large screen TV's with VCRs (haven't upgraded to DVD yet - but we're working on it) so it shouldn't be a problem. Just let us know what you would like to have shown and when. It can be done. [tup] Also, with the Grand re-opening of The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre those flicks are scheduled for showing in the not too distant future. Here's a list of some that will be incorporated into the upcoming movie season:

Train Movies

A Century of Lionel Trains
Bound for Glory
Breakheart Pass
Casey Jones TV show
Danger Lights
Disaster on the Coastliner TV
Emperor of the North
Exciting 100 mph Race to Chicago
Fahrenheit 451
Flame Over India
Fours a Crowd
Holiday Affair
It Happened to Jane
Love those Trains
Midnight Run Deniro
Narrow Margin
North by Northwest
Pacific 231
Rail Away
Rio Grande 1950's
Runaway Train
Station Agent
Switch Back
The Chartreuse Caboose
The Christmas Story
The Denver and Rio Grande
The General Buster Keaton
The Great Locomotive Chase
The Greatest Show on Earth
The Iron Horse
The Lady Vanishes
The Molly Maguires 1968
The Polar Express
The Silver Streak 1934 Version
The Silver Streak Pryor
The Train
Toccata for Toy Trains
Tough Guys
U.S.2.:D.T.
Under Siege 2: Dark Territory
Union Depot
Von Ryan's Express
Ya Can't Win Em All

Reno[?] Can't tell you how many times we have planned an itinerary for a round trip from Chicago. Always falls through for one reason or another. [yeah] I know, the route is much more picturesque coming from the west, but we're here - not there! [swg] Anyway, Amtrak's California Zephyr is the train - but I'm in serious doubts that we'll ever take it. When it comes to spending that kinda money for a bedroom, etc., we'd much prefer VIA Rail. Getting up there, though, is the issue these days (daze!).

Thanx for the quarters and of course the round! [tup] Looks like Coal Scuttle is a bit "light" and can use an infusion or three. [swg]

Okay, catch y'all later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

FIRST ANNUAL “OUR” PLACE CLASSIC TRAINS RENDEZVOUS


Here’s an update to the planning for our First Annual Rendezvous:

(1) The Rendezvous will take place in Toronto, Canada during the period of May 11th thru May 13th, 2006.

(2) It will be for the regular patrons of ”Our” Place, no spouses or guests – this time.

(3) Four customers have made firm plans to attend – Tom – Rob – Ted and Al

(4) Thursday, May 11th is arrival day, with an evening social planned at or near the place of lodging in suburban Toronto. Close to a rail line of course! [swg]

(5) Friday, May 12th is the official Rendezvous day with activities planned into the evening. Activities include riding steel wheels on steel track in Toronto: VIA Rail, GO Transit trains, Toronto subways and Transit Toronto streetcars.

(6) Saturday, May 13th is “sleep late day,” with a visit to the Halton County Radial Railway Museum Milton Ontario (trolleyboy Rob’s trolley museum) to follow “brunch”. Rendezvous activities conclude at the evening social.

(7) Rob (Trolleyboy) is our Program Coordinator and Host.

(8) PLEASE continue communicating with me by Email regarding the Rendezvous. It is IMPORTANT to keep the communications off of the forum/thread so that nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

Hope to see some others “sign up” for our get together this spring![tup][tup][tup]


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #52

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the General Motors Electro-Motive Division from a 1948 advertisement in my personal collection.

The colorful recreation car on The Jeffersonian, Pennsylvania Railroad all-coah streamliner, provides a luxurious game and reading lounge, a children’s playroom, a miniature movie theatre and a sunken buffet-lounge. The Jeffersonian is in daily service between New York and St. Louis. It is provided by a General Motors locomotive.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PLAY AS YOU GO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

You get more fun out of the pleasures today’s travel affords when you train is powered by a General Motors Diesel locomotive.

For then you travel with a new smoothness – and a new speed, too. Often, on the straightaways, your train will top 100 miles an hour.

General Motors locomotives have also brought a new cleanliness to travel - no smoke and cinders to mar your appearance; no clouds of steam to mar your view.

For years General Motors locomotives have held the records for on-time arrivals.

It is easy to see why 197 of America’s finest, fastest name trains are headed by General Motors power.

Easy to understand why better trains follow General Motors locomotives.

. . . . . . . . . . ELECTRO-MOTIVE DIVISION . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . GENERAL MOTORS * LA GRANGE, ILL. . . . . .

. . . . . Home of the Diesel Locomotive . . . . .


Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)][oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a CR and a round for the house.

PASSENGERFAN AL'S STREAMLINER CORNER #35

OLD DOMINION RF&P November 15, 1947 Richmond - Washington two daily round trips 113.5 miles each way 2 hours 55 minutes each way.

The OLD DOMINION was the name assigned to a new five car streamlined train owned by the Richmond Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad inaugurated between Richmond, Virginia and Washington, District of Columbia on November 15, 1947. The five cars were constructed by American Car & Foundry and for power initially a non-streamlined 4-6-2 Pacific was selected. The schedule was speeded up in December to a flat two hours in each direction. Unfortunately the train was never a success and in less than a year was discontinued. The reason for its failyre was to many train already covering the same route. After all the RF&P forwarded all SAL and ACL train s between the PRR and their home roads and many of these trains carried local pasengers.

CONSIST

312 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive and Tender

840 70-Revenue Seat Coach

841 70-Revenue Seat Coach

842 70-Revenue Seat Coach

843 70-Revenue Seat Coach

VIRGINIA DARE 20-Seat Dining 6-Seat Lounge 22-Revenue Seat Parlor Car

TTFN Al

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Well, here we are back to the "Feast or Famine Bar 'n Grill!" Thought we left that behind in 2005! [swg]

Al and others may wi***o check out page 134 for some NOSTALGIA regarding the Washington & Old Dominion Railway.. Not the RF&P mentioned by Al but relevant to a degree.

Thanx for the round! Boris dust off the bell and ring it! [swg]

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[wanswheel]

Hi Tom and everyone, just a nightcap please

The oldest earliest memory that I can retrieve is of being 3 years old and in a long room with many windows on both sides and 2 rows of side-by-side big chairs. It was a brand new environment for me in the spring of 1950. I was on a train with my mother and I was very happy. Probably the Des Moines Rocket, No.506, leaving Davenport at 9:51a.m. The next thing I remember it was the next day and we got off the New York Central System at Palmer, Massachusetts. A lady picked us up at the station, a friend or cousin of my mother, and drove us to Ware in a pre-War coupe. I had never met my maternal grandparents before, and I don't remember meeting them that day either. But I do remember coming down to breakfast in their kitchen and seeing no sign of my mother, just me and these 2 old people. I asked them where my mother was. They told me she had gone to Mass. Good old Mom. (September 8, 1915 - January 3, 2004)

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Tom,I'll nab meself a Keith's and catch a round for the house wislt I'm at it. We must get the bathtub back up and agoing if we are to afford the DVD upgrade for the bar. Oh BTW the free Hooter's calender may be a cause of concern.Boris is yet to leave his shed since he got his copy.[:O] That can't be at all healthy ( for any of us )[B)][:(!]

Glad you liked that mouldy old CN ad, it also listed the addresses of all their US offices. You need to watch out when you are on the main street of the MV,seems that Vito is looking at investing in the subway construction and any other light rail options that may float his way. Very shrewed business man that Vito[;)]


CM3 I'm glad that the Ft Erie race trains caught your eye. The Ft erie racetrack and most if not all of CN's yards there are loooong gone. To bad to it was a full service caol dock roundhouse backshop sort of area. Just the ayrd tracks there now.[:(] Neat to see that other railways ran similar trains. I've noted that on occation VIA will run a grey cup speacial depending on where the grey cup game is played. It's usually well patronized. The all caboose ( or is that cabeese [?] ) train would have been a sight as well.

I do hope that the WVA mining disaster has a bit of a happy end. One can only hope. I can't imagine what it's like for the families or the recuers. All we can do is keep them in our thoughts.


Al Another fine edition to the roundhouse to get us all started off again this year[tup]

Ted Glad you liked the rerun of the traction stories. PCC's and Witt's are my personal favourites,nothing says a streetcar quite like a Witt in notch 8 groweling up Yonge street with a packed trailer.[sigh] sadley Yonge trains have not run since the yonge subway openned in 1954. No worries on the New Years greetings, seems as though the old comoputer gremlins decided to steal that email[:(!]

I was a bit interested by the twwo urls you gave. I haven't peeked at them yet,but are they shipping programs or game programs like the one Tom has ( but not openned ) I have used ( at a train club ) a couple of different shipping programs. They worked well, but it just wasn't my thing. To me the hobby is for fun, shouldn't become a job, to me the shiopping programs made it a bit too much like work. Only my tarnished [2C]


Well I'm out for now. I'll have another small ad tidbit for eberyone momentarily

Rob

[trolleyboy]

Okay here's another classic CNR Ad. This one is from 1931 and is for their Hotel chain.


Hotels of Distinction

The Candian National system maintains, in some of the principle cities of Canada, hotels which are a credit both to a great transcontinental railway and to the cities served. The Chateau Laurier, which stands in the Dominion capitol, Ottawa, is one of the finest buildings in Canada an dis the centre of the city's most brilliant social life. Other dignified buildings in the Candain National hotel chain are the Fort Gary at Winnipeg, the Macdonald, at Edmonton,and the Nova Scotian, at Halifax,openned in 1930. In adition to these are: the Prince Arthur,at Port Arthur,Ontario ,and the Prince Edward,at Brandon, Manitoba.


Enjoy Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good evening again gentlemen. Tom I'll grab another Keith''s as my original one seems to have emptied somehow[:D]. Your nostalgia piece on the Electro- Motive car inspired me to find this old post again.



Here's a small Encore. This is a bit about the TH&B's EMC Doodlebug. This was posted originally on page 153.
Enjoy again. Rob

QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy


Here's a little ad exerpt from a book I have here at home. This is an add from 1952 from Electro motive. This comes out of the book In the shadow of giants the toronto Hamilton and Buffalo Railway story By Norman Helm.

"Good for another million miles."

Here is Electro-Motive gas-electric rail car number 301. Which has passed the million mile mark on the Toronto Hamilton and Buffalo Railway and is still performing perfectly in passenger service between Welland , Hamilton ,and waterford Ontario.

Mr W B Slater, assistant General Manager of the T H & B RY, writes:...


"This car has been in service since dec 14 1927, and the 1,000,000-mile mark was reached on January 8 1949. The car still provides excellant riding qualities. It is functioning 100% and without some unusual circumstances arising it should be good for another million miles. "

we expect reports like this. Practically all of the 500 Electro-Motive rail cars built between 1923 and 1932 are still in active service.The work these old-timers are doing will not match the spectacular achievements of their diesel successors. But it was in th steady, outstanding performance of such rail cars that railroads learned they could rely on locomotives which bear Electro-Motives name plate.

i'll pop back in later evryone.

Rob

[siberianmo]

Good Night Gents!

It's been said that good things come in threes, so it is again with Rob and his late night visits - three more Posts! [tup] Appreciate your stopping by. [tup]

Perhaps I better take a closer look at what's going on in that shed - Boris has been known to devour Hooters! <grin>

Good tip regarding the "influence" being exerted by the unsavory element in connection with the subway construction. Fortunately, we do have some measures underway to protect our interests. Perhaps something to explore for the next edition of The Mentor Village Gazette. Speaking of which, apparently didn't really flick as many switches as I had hoped. [%-)][%-)]

Doodlebugs, by any other name were absolutely the strangest looking Farkles riding the rails. They occupy a nitch in railroading history though, especially in the development of the rail diesel car. Interesting stuff. [tup]

Mike, was beginning to wonder where you've been - good to see ya!

That's quite a mental exercise to attempt - retrieving one's earliest memories. While yours has a focus on trains and your mother, mine is on war, a cabin cruiser and my maternal grandfather. Probably about a decade earlier than yours. Interesting and maybe something for further elaboration another time.

Okay, ring the bell Boris a round on me and this place is closing for the night!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

WEDNESDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS

We open at 6 AM all time zones! (Don’t ask how we do that!)[swg]


Good Morning! What better way to start the day than to try some of our pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery with a cup of our freshly brewed coffee. Oh yes, we are now serving <traditional> and <light> breakfasts, check ‘em out on our Menu Board![tup]

See page 208 for the current issue of The Mentor Village Gazette


Daily Wisdom

Stay alert! You can observe a lot by watching. (Yogi-ism)


Info for the Day:

(1) repeat Friday, January 6th is the Birthday Bash! for CM3. Stop by during the morning or early afternoon to wish our friend and permanent member of the Order of the Stools a belated [bday] for his 59th!

(2) repeat Sunday Photo Posting Day! returns on January 8th. Let’s make this a successful event through active participation by more than one or two! [tup]


SUMMARY

Name …..…………… Date/Time …..…..………. (Page#) .. Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 00:21:41 (209) Tuesday’s Info & Summary

(2) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 06:35:29 (209) Inclusive Post, etc.

(3) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 08:24:56 (209) Interesting Post

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 09:32:03 (209) Acknowledgments, etc.

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 14:00:06 (209) First Annual Rendezvous!

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 16:08:20 (209) NOSTALGIA #32 – Ad – EMD (1948)

(7) passengerfan Al Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 17:49:32 (209) Streamliner #35, Old Dominion RF&P

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 18:47:29 (209) reply to passengerfan

(9) wanswheel Mike Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 22:27:09 (209)

(10) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 23:02:34 (209) Inclusive Post, etc.

(11) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 23:14:55 (209) Ad – Hotels of Distinction (1931)

(12) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 03 Jan 2006, 23:49:36 (210) Encore! TH&B’s Doodlebug

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 04 Jan 2006, 00:30:14 (210) Acknowledgments, etc.

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[coalminer3]

Good Morning Barkeep and All Present: Coffee, please; round for the house (a toast for missing friends this a.m.), and $ for the jukebox.

Things are pretty subdued around here this morning; the news coverage says it all.

Interesting list of movies. "It Happened to Jane" was filmed on the New Haven and features all kinds of NYNH&H equipment, including a steam locomotive. There were a couple of articles abt. this in the New Haven Technical Assocaition's publication (Shoreliner) awhile back.

BTW, for RDC fans out there, "Shoreliner" was the New Haven's nickname for these trains.

Since (I think) today is 'modeling" day, you might want to take a look at the August, 2004 issue of MR. An interesting article abt NH electrification modeling is in there - well worth looking at to give you an idea of what it was all about. I always admire folks who have the patience to do overhead, especially New Haven style with the monstrous anchor bridges, triangular catenary, etc.

I got an interesting birthday gift, a copy of Steinheimer's Electric Way Across the Mountains. I am glad to see it has been reprinted. Signature Press does a good job re production values, and you might be interested in checking it out if, like me, you failed to get a copy of the 1st edition.

Unsavory elements involved in subway construction? What a concept! Let me guess, it has something to do with concrete, tunnel liners and water? Cement work boots - enquiring minds want to know................

work safe

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

A strange phenomenon indeed as it seems we had more activity at the bar during the holiday period than has been evident thus far. Amazing, given so many had announced they would be away until after Jan 1st. Go figure!

CM3 - Yes, the news does say it all regarding the awful set of events in WVA. No point in repeating it herein other than to simply offer condolences to those impacted by the tragic loss of life.

Astute observation of yours regarding what Wednesday's had been 'round here - we used to call it "Pike Perspectives Day," but as with so many of our endeavors, I've let it run the course of natural flow. Appreciate your input though, and I recall that article in my MRR mag - I'll have to dig it out to read it again. [tup]

Inquiring minds wlll have to wait until the next edition of The Mentor Village Gazette. However, you are on the right track - no pun intended! [swg] Appreciate the "feeder."

Many pages ago, either you or passengerfan Al provided us with a listing of those "names" applied to RDCs by the RRs operating them. Time for an ENCORE! [tup]

Thanx for the continuing contribution to our Coal Scuttle and the round! [tup]
*******************************

Okay - where are the following guys[?][%-)]

. . . barndad Doug
. . . jdonald Don
. . . Trainnut484 Russell
. . . nickinwestwales Nick

We know pwolfe Pete is in Great Britain and we know BudKarr BK is in BC/Alberta, Canada, but the rest[?] C'mon guyz, it ain't the same without ya.

Just when I get ready to complie a new listing of "who's who" at the bar, you guyz drop outta sight! I'll never get this done. [swg][%-)]

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good morning everyone. I know we should be very greatful for the "one miracle" and not dwell on the tragic loss of the remaining twelve at the WV coal mine site. "The road to hell is paved with good intentions," might best describe the miscommunication and tragic misgivings of the first reports. Tom, make mine a double Crown "straight up," and a round for the bar in a toast to those couragous rescue people who "risked it all." CM3, all of us send our heart felt condolences for what has happened. How prophetic your usual sign off now seems: "work safe."

Say, Electro-Motive Division (Gen. Motors) seems to have captured the most posts lately.[tup] Not long ago, we had a splendid "break down" of the EMD 'Fs' and 'Es' followed by Rob and Tom's enlightening pieces on vintage Diesel and Gas Electrics from the E.M.D. shops. Oh yes, the two URLs in my last post were really just "ticklers" for those interested in the "soft ware" side of their modeling efforts. However, from the description I read, there may be posibilites of Cyber planning without driving a single spike to ballast. I'm in Rob's camp as to "shipping and routing."[V] It seems to me like an expensive method for engaging a migrane headache.[:O] OT Rendesvous, is that a "DYNOMITE" itenerary or what?[^] I can hardly wait to get passengerfan Al's autograph to put into his "first edition" when published.[^] Gosh, I hope real estate and or income tax data will be excluded.[(-D] Earlydiesels Dan, "cheks in the mail."[swg] Thanks for the weather "update," Nick [C=:-)] Glad your neighborhood was spared the brunt of those storms to the East.[tup]

I expect to see substantial coverage in the Mentor Village Gazette on unraveling the alleged subterfuge between The MV Second National Bank (Vito "the hit') and the MV Board of Transportation inre: Subway (Underground) ways and means prospectus. Is the proposed "Mall" still in Limbo pending Environmentalist's concerns of rending the "Black Turnip and Sleaze Bean" tract of land asunder? Phew! Can't wait for the MV Emporium Theatre to open on the Ninth.[tup] The list of Coming Attractions is awesome.[^] Gents, I would advise avoiding the "single handed" seats in the Balcony at all costs.[V] It could mean losing your deposit on that rental Tuxedo from Moish Rifkowitz' Haberdashery and Chili Parlo(u)r.[:O] Okay, it is time for yours truly to see what I've missed while composing this drivel. Happy rails all.

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for coffee and a crumpet.

PASSENGERFAN AL'S STREAMLINER CORNER #36

NEBRASKA ZEPHYR CB&Q Trains 11-12 inaugurated November 16, 1947 Chicago - Lincoln daily each direction 551 miles 9 hours 20 minutes.

The Burlington inaugurated the NEBRASAKA ZEPHYR on November 16, 1947 using the TRAIN OF THE GODS and TRAIN OF THE GODDESES train sets formerly assigned to TWIN ZEPHYR service. The new TWIN ZEPHYR replacements were not completed in time to replace the TRAIN OF THE GODS and TRAIN OF THE GODDESSES forcing the CB&Q to temporarily use prewar streamlined coaches, Dining cars and hevavyweight Parlor cars on the TWIN ZEPHYR route. The temporary equipment was replaced by the new VISTA DOME TWIN ZEPHYRS inaugurated December 19, 1947.
The NEBRASKA ZEPHYR consists were articulated except for new streamlined Baggage Cars built for the trains. and added in February 1948.
Power was initially a single E5A or E7A to power the NEBRASKA ZEPHYRS.

CONSIST ONE After February 1948
TRAIN OF THE GODS

9911A SILVER PILOT EMD E5A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

907 OLYMPUS Baggage Car

961 APOLLO Articulated Auxiliary Power Baggage Bar 34-Seat Cocktail Lounge Car
4629 NEPTUNE Articulated 60-Revenue Seat Coach
4630 MARS Articulated 60-Revenue Seat Coach
4851 CUPID Articulated 56-Revenue Seat Coach 16-Seat Dinette
151 VULCAN Articulated 32-Seat Dining Car
4628 MERCURY Articulated 42-Revenue Seat Coach 5-Revenue Seat Parlor Drawing Room Car
226 JUPITER Articulated 24-Revenue Seat Parlor 10-Seat Lounge Observation

CONSIST TWO
TRAIN OF THE GODDESSES

9914A SILVER ARROW EMD E5A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

906 ARGO Baggage Car

960 VENUS Articulated Auxiliary Power Baggage Bar 34-Seat Cocktail Lounge Car
4626 VESTA Articulated 60-Revenue Seat Coach
4627 MINERVA Articulated 60-Revenue Seat Coach
4850 PSYCHE Articulated 56-Revenue Seat Coach 16-Seat Dinette Car
150 CERES Articulated 32-Seat Dining Car
4625 DIANA Articulated 42-revenue Seat Coach 5-Revenue Seat Parlor Drawing Room
225 JUNO Articulated 24-Revenue Seat Parlor 10-Seat Lounge Observation

TTFN AL

F

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Glad I stuck around after Posting, otherwise I would have missed the morning visit by
Theodorebear Ted!

Another well composed and on-point Post to help kick off this mid-week day here at "Our" Place! [tup]

You just KNOW that Al will be bringing along his "fold out" business cards listing all of his "credentials." Question is, will the authorities permit him to ply his trade(s) in the former Dominion? Hmmmmmmm. Stay tuned as the stomach turns! [swg]

Before we know it, May will soon be upon us. Having spent more than a few spring days and nights in Toronto, my recommendation is to keep checking the weather forecasts available on the web. Many sites to choose from and several have easy conversions from Centigrade to Fahrenheit. A simple rule of thumb to make the conversion is: take the (C) temp - double it - and add 30 - that will give you "close enough" for (F). As we get closer, more "travel tips from Tom" will be available! [swg]

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[trolleyboy]

Morning Tom just a quick run( no trifecta ) through before I head off to work this AM. So a coffee and crumpet for me as well. [:D]

CM3 I have to mirror Tom and Ted condolences for all those effected.


I actually have read that article several times and have to say that that is some of the nicest overhead work ( modelwise that I have seen ) For myself i'll just be putting up the single and double arm supports (where required), the wire that will be strung will be "dumb" in that it's for looks not power. Much simpler for myself to wire for regular through the rail type power pick ups.

Ted The shipping programs are fairly migrane inducing. Mind you the one that the club ended up using allowed for us to make up our own waybills. So while one was reading the switch list some of the cargoe's were shall I say moderatly humourous.

Tom Good tip on TO weather in may. Normally warm 50-60's during the day can drop to parkalike conditions at night. So certainly sweaters are recomended. Now having said that, this past may was warmer than **ll. so definatly keep yer eyes on the wether channels.

I wonder if Boris could grow his sleeze beans ydroponically in the shed. Hmm, on second thought perhaps that's not a good idea, he may have the power company and the local authorities accusing him of other things.


Latter folks. Rob

[siberianmo]

G'day Rob and whoever else may pop in!

Posting in the daylight - how novel! <grin>

Received an Email from Sir Nick - seems he is feeling a bit "uncomfortable" and will re-emerge rather soon. All's well and he's still within the IC. [tup]

They say imitation is a sincere form of flattery, so I will encourage you to continue on with the advertisements. They add quite a bit to the theme of this bar 'n grill - Classic Trains - good effort! [tup]

I have been searching 'round trying to come up with images that aren't copyrighted or so blasted difficult to use without infringements, etc. As you may already know, I respect the rights of those who initially put forth the stuff in many of my Posts - that's why I "credit" where possible. Photos on the other hand are really difficult to track down - for one may never really be sure regarding just who snapped the image. Any ideas[?]

I plan to continue on with the NOSTALGIA pieces for a bit longer - but am thinking seriously of embarking upon another course. That's where the images come in. Posting URLs are fine - however, nothing like having that image smack you between they eyes, eh[?] [swg]

Speaking of that - let's not forget about the resumption of Sunday Photo Posting Day! coming up! Sure hope we get more than "lip service," as much time has elapsed to permit our contributors to contribute! And, by the by, no one has sent me anything by Email for Posting. Doesn't look promising from that aspect ......

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

Gentlemen at the bar!

For those who consider yourselves regulars at this watering hole, I offer once again an opporunity to make "Our" Place perhaps a better place. Why not invite others to join us while you are Posting elsewhere on the Forums[?] Many times over the past several months I have seen several familiar cyber names, some belonging to our Permanent Stools Members, sharing information in other topic areas. Why not "drop a dime" for us[?] It surely cannot hurt, especially when one considers that as people leave our bar 'n grill, replacements surely must come from somewhere.

Try it - you may be successful!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[Anonymous]

Hello, minor here. I am just sticking my head in the door to tell you guys what a fine place you have... [tup] I have read your posts and learned a lot about Classic Trains You guys have a nice, orderly, down to earth place, and I admire that.

Keep up this great place, and maybe I will check back when I am 21 [swg] so I can engage in your great conversation...

Regards,

[Anonymous]

Its me again just dropping in to check the action, so to speak. Tom, it is late enough to try another Crown on for size (oooh!)[V] BTW, you have mail. Passengerfan Al has "done it again." I much appreciate another Burlington Zephyr streamliner of yore with the consist details.[tup] I was wondering how the 2 truck baggage cars "married" up with the articulated coaches? I suppose one or more of the baggage cars had one end with a "span bolster" and the other end standard truck coupling? Yes Tom, I agree the "Doodlebugs" are of a lower "order" to the varnish we so enjoy remebering here. I came to admire their "so ugly, they are cute" appearance and found them ideal for a limited space layout rather than "Shorty" Pullmans, coaches, etc. That "hybrid" model solution seemed too inaccurate a compromise for moi. Traction too serves many a Modeler's yearning for passenger operations with curves held to a minimum. And yes, the overhead wire is a time consuming installation. It isn't much fun to clean "under" either.[V] Most of my Trolley action is "in street girder rail" with the usual "pitfalls" after a derailing.[:-^] For years I have been partial to The North Shore Line (Chicago to Milwaukee) and am inclined to make those early cars the "Roster" for the proposed "El" on my Pike. This still is Wednesday isn't it (Pike Perspectives Day)?

I will be looking forward to more TO travel tips from Tom and Rob as Spring draws closer. Besides, I just like to "talk about it" from time to time.[^] I wish I could offer advise on the "photo" protocal delima. As Sergeant Schultz of Stalag 13 fame would say: "I know nussink!" Okay Boris! Thought you would get off easy today, eh? "Hit it Buddy!" BARRONG, Ahh that's music to me ears.[^] Now go play with Tex and don't paw around with Awk on the way out.[alien]. Happy rails.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Received your Email Ted - response on the way. Thanx! [tup]

Figured I'd wait a bit until resuming our "full slate" of weekly acitvities. Still have a few of our regulars out, especially one Chief Chef [C=:-)] Nick.

However, yes - it is "Pike Perspectives Day," and I must admit to huge neglect in not moving along with my subway construction. Just a matter of motivation, I guess. Nice thing about the hobby is that it is there when one wants it. Kinda like a faithful pet. [swg]

Chris nice of you to stop in and we appreciate your endorsement! We should be so fortunate to still be up 'n running by the time you turn 21, given that your profile indicates you are a high school freshman. 'm not sure that I have that kind of endurance! [swg] You may find my thread on Classic Passenger Trains" of interest in your "learning process." [tup]

Ted I almost purchased a couple of those Doodlebugs a few years ago when Bachman had them in production (I think). But changed my mind in that what goes on my pike is most times only the cars that I have traveled in. Freight of course is the exception to the rule. When it comes to passenger model railroading, I like to be able to "relate" when I engage in operating my pike. They are indeed interesting rail cars and as mentioned, have earned a place in railroading history and lore.

Some time back I provided you with some info on those R17 HO subway cars you were inquiring about. I see where LifeLike Proto 1000 has come out with another set of Red Birds - these are close-coupled and otherwise have the same features as the sets I have. Check 'em out at www.walthers.com - but comparison shop, for you can get 'em cheaper elsewhere.

One of my all time favorite flicks was the original black & white Stalag 13 (1953)s[i] wtih William Holden, Peter Graves, Otto Preminger, etc. Great movie! The scenes with "Animal" and his fascination for [i]Betty Grable are priceless. Never got into the TV version, a bit too much nonsense for my tastes. Hated to see the Germans portrayed as complete idiots. Nasty SOB's - yes, but idiots, nope.

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[siberianmo]

G'day!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #53

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the Canadian National Railways (CNR) from a 1949 advertisement in my personal collection.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

one of Canada’s 10 most popular VACATIONS

ENJOY the best that Canada offers. Play in the mountain-and-sea setting of the glorious West Coast (Vancouver harbor) or see the sights of her Eastern Cities: Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec, Halifax . . . You go in comfort by Canadian National, the railway to everywhere in Canada.

”East or West, we’ll show you
. . . . . . . . . . CANADA’s BEST!” . . . . . . . .

EXPLORE the snug harbors, the historic towns, the “picture places” of Canada’s Maritime Provinces (Lunenburg, Nova Scotia). The Ocean Limited, the International Limited and other Canadian National “name trains give easy access to all Eastern Canada.

BE THE GUEST of the largest railway system in North America . . . traveling happy-go-lazy to choice vacation areas . . . stopping at Canadian National resorts and big city hotels of distinction. To California and anywhere West, to New York and anywhere East, go Canadian National. “We’ll tell you where and take you there!”

. . . . . CANADIAN NATIONAL . . . . .

. . . . . THE RAILWAY TO EVERYWHERE IN CANADA . . . . .


Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)][oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[Anonymous]

Good evening Tom and gents! Make mine a quick shot of Daniels, as I have steaks on the grill that I'm supposed to be watching! Please accept a round for the house, and 2 Michigan quarters for the jukebox.

I can't even begin to do proper justice to the fine posts y'all have been putting up in the brief time I have. Al sure caught my attention with the info on the Nebraska Zephyr. For whatever it's worth, the consist at IRM is now down to the SIlver Pilot, Venus, Vesta, Minerva, Ceres and Juno. The other cars were damaged in accidents, and scrapped.

Please forgive this hasty post. I promise to "get with the program" soon. As a peace offering, here's the final part of my most recent series:

Steam Delights of India – photos and article by Ron Johnson – Rail Classics 1/82

Passengers and engine crew hang out of doorways as passenger train departs for Viramgam Junction.


The next morning it was well worth the effort to arise at the break of day when one has the best chance of viewing the 20,000 foot Himalayas to the north bathed in eternal snow. The visitor’s breath is taken away as the rising sun causes the peaks to slowly turn from pink to brilliant white. Jeeps and taxis may be hired to pace the rail line which stays next to the roadway for most of the routs. It is highly advisable to position oneself at the Ghoom Loop, a couple miles out of Darjeeling to photograph the 6:15 a.m. train out of Darjeeling casting its silhouette across the face of 28,168 foot Mount Kangchenjunga.

There are many fascinating lines tucked away out in the “bush,” one of which is the Eastern Railway’s two-foot, six inch line running from Junction to Nabadwipghat. It lies about 80 miles from Calcutta to the east of the Ganges River. Four miniature Yorkshire built 2-4-0Ts provide the motive power and are quite a sight pulling a string of coaches towering above them. The little 24 ½” wheels operate twice a day over the 17.5-mile line. Second class fare is about 15 cents, but if one wants to travel in relative uncrowded comfort in the first class section, the fare is ten times as much. Shantipur may be reached directly from Sealdah station in Calcutta. Views from the train give the visitor a chance to glimpse rural Indian life as it really is.

One of the best places to watch broad gauge steam doing what it was designed to do is at Patna Jct. located on the south bank of the Ganges River in the Eastern Railway zone. All trains are steam powered in non-electrified territory. If one gets tired of the constant parade of WP and WG powered trains, there are steam-powered stern wheel and side paddle boats plying the waters of the Ganges.

The visiting railfan has to be prepared to attract crowds of curious onlookers be staying in the photo location too long. Photography can be rather difficult especially when one looks through the viewfinder and sees the smiling faces of local Indian children. Once the throng understands what the railfan is doing by careful gesturing one can usually form quite a cooperative photo line.

Moving farther west, the railfan’s next logical step is the beautiful city of Agra where both railroad and tourist type activities may take up several days. The premier steam powered “Taj Express” terminates in this city. One of the six immaculate WPs, specially assigned to this train, makes a grand entrance with its 10 to 15 car consist each morning in Agra station at 10:15 a.m. from New Delhi, 124 miles away. It is primarily a tourist-oriented train coupled with a highly recommended tour of the city organized by the railway. One may purchase tickets on the platform for $5.00 per person for an all day air-conditioned bus excursion, which features the Taj Mahal, Agre Fort, and the Deserted City plus a lunch stop at a nice restaurant. The tour is timed to view the magnificent Taj Mahal in the afternoon when the white marble gleams at its splendid best and then slowly turns to pink in the setting sun with mists from the Ganges River rising up to gradually envelope the majestic dome.

South of Agra, about 25 miles and 75 miles respectively, are a couple two-foot lines branching off a broad gauge main out of Agra at Dholpur and Gwalior. It is possible to photograph a massive broad gauge engine sitting beside a tiny 2-8-4T Hunslet at Dholpur or a 2-8-2 Baldwin at Gwalior, making an incredible study in comparisons.

After touring the wonders of Agra and the narrow gauge, one may board the “Taj Express,” which leaves Agra at 7:00 p.m. for a three hour trip to New Delhi. The consist includes AC accommodations and a dining car. Darkness has fallen and out of the blackness a shadowy hulk appears piercing the night with a brilliant backup light. Wreathes of steam envelope the wheezing giant. The station lights strike the gleaming machine as it backs under the canopy from the gloom of the yard. A sleek bullet nose glides into view. Trainmen scurry about waving lanterns signaling the engineer that first 20, 10, then 5 feet remain to make the hitch with the first car. The coupling is made with perfect precision as no noticeable movement of the baggage car was observed. Before boarding the express, the passenger has a quick chance to look into the cab interior of the trim WP where the brass on the appliances shines like that of a ship’s pilothouse. Over the firebox dorr, a brilliant brass silhouette of the Taj Mahal graces the wall.

At precisely 7:00 p.m. the “Taj Express” seems to glide out of the station with no startup jolt. Because the WP does not have to tussle with grades of any consequence, it maintains a respectable average speed of 41 mph wth little or no effort. Once in a while the speed tops 50 mph as sounds of the exhaust seem to mesh into one long roar. The “Taj Express” makes just two stops on its three hour journey, one at Marth Jct., 13 ½ miles out of Agra and at Hazart Nizamuddin, about 11 miles south of New Delhi. In the meantime a reasonable chicken dinner with mixed vegetables is served on railway china with tea or sift drinks. With strict punctuality the “Taj Express” arrives at its destination on time at 10:10 p.m., something of which the average passenger train cannot boast in spite of heavily padded schedules.

The next morning the railfan may hire a taxi and position oneself several miles outside the city to photograph the “Taj Express” at speed. Electrification on this double track main extends from Delhi, a little over two miles north or New Delhi, to 13 miles south at Tuglabad, although eventual plans for extension of wires to Agra. It is a stirring sight to watch this grand steam train emerge out of the early morning mist and slam by the viewer, leaving permanent tracks in the memory.

Spending a day at Delhi Jct., just west of Delhi station out from under the wires, can experience a full day of practically nonstop meter and broad gauge steam action with WP, WL, CWD, and YP engines featured as headliners.

There is a museum of preserved Indian steam power in immaculate condition at Delhi which was opened in January 1977. One may see a tremendous variety of steam traction ranging from two-foot gauge Darjeeling-Himalayan Railway engine to monster broad gauge Garrett from the Bengal-Nagpur Railway. All the exhibits are laid out with thought to plenty of room for photography. The museum is situated near the Moti Bagh railroad bridge on Shantipath next to the Bhutan Embassy. It is closed on Mondays.

Meter gauge lines dominate the Western Railway. In this relatively dry portion of the country, camels are seen in great evidence serving as beasts of burden instead of the usual cattle hauling carts and plowing fields. Ajmer is home to a meter gauge workshop where many home-built engines were constructed and continue to be repaired.

It is worth spending a morning at Mahesana Jct. where meter gauge branch lines fan out. To the north of the station is a high bluff of land where one may photograph the passing parade of steam locals and main line expresses. The locomotives restored at the shed are kept in highly-polished condition and are a joy to photograph at the head end of passenger consists.

A 2-fott, 6-inch narrow gauge network definitely worth mentioning is located in the Western Railway’s territory. A little over 300 miles north of Bombay on the broad gauge is the town of Vadodara, a good place to locate a reasonable hotel. About 20 miles southeast of this city is Dabhoi Jct., a center of narrow gauge lines fanning out in all directions. One can count on about 20 steam powered arrivals and departures during the course of a morning. The fan is kept busy hot footing from one end of the station platform to the other. The steam locals are all in the hands of ZB class 2-6-2s built from 1928-53.

It is the policy of the Indian Railway that home-built steam locomotives have a life span of 40 years. At the end of that time the engine is inspected to evaluate whether it should be scrapped or repaired. Many engines are less than 10 years old, so it is not at all unreasonable to expect that the steam enthusiast should still be able to photograph steam activity into the 21st century providing that political situations and natural disasters don’t spoil opportunities.

Tips Concerning Railfan Visits to India – Although one usually encounters no opposition in taking pictures of rail facilities, it is best to obtain a railway photography permit issued by the Railway Board in Delhi. One must have a great deal of patience when traveling in this country as many procedures, such as customs and hotel check-ins may be long and drawn out due to volumes of paperwork.

One will need a valid passport plus the “Special Permit” to visit Darjeeling, as mentioned previously. It is also a good idea to be vaccinated against smallpox and have some form of anti-malaria protection. To avoid stomach upset, one should carry sterilizing tablets if planning on drinking the water. Keep valuables close at hand. A good 35-mm single-lens-reflex camera is worth three or four years worth of labor for the average poor worker.

North of Calcutta, a two-foot Yorkshire 2-4-0T is prepared for service on a local passenger train.


Don’t carry heavy bags. Railway porters (called “sherpas”), who can be identified by the red turbans which they wear, can be hired to tote bags on top of their heads for about 12 cents a bag. A convenient place to stow luggage while making side trips is to leave it at the “Left Luggage Office,” found at most stations. It is required that all bags be locked before a receipt is given. Then the baggage can be left for all day in a locked room for just pennies.

While the best way to tour around India is via rail, taxis can be hired at reasonable fees for side trips, but there are no rental cars available. Gas is extremely difficult to find especially in the smaller towns. For this reason the author recommends that the potential railfan visitor make use of an organized tour group, which is able to charter buses for excursions into the “bush” to flush out the rare steam “beasties.” Rail Study Tours International, 164 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, Virginia 22180 offer trips each year to this steam mecca. A British group which offers expertise in conducting tours out of London is Railway Travel & Photography, 23 Danta Way, Stafford, England ST17 OBA.

Make sure to take a full supply of film along as it is hard to get in India and when available it is usually out of date.

Handsome WD 2-8-2 in meter gauge switches while diesel departs with a passenger train


[:I] See y'all later! [:I]

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a CR and a round for the house.

Ted asked about the Nebraska Zephyr baggage cars. Actually the two NEBRASKA ZEPHYR (Originally TWIN ZEPHYRS) trains were the first CB&Q Zephyrs in which the consists were not articulated to the power, The original shovelnose diesels were simply coupled to the first car so when the baggage cars were added it was a simple matter of coupling to the power and to the trailing articulated consist. This was also true of the first DENVER ZEPHYRS. Hope this answers your question.

TTFN AL

[Anonymous]

Evening again Tom and friends. I've time for a bottemless draught if you please. The latest Mentor Village Gazette is always a good read, and this one was really excellent. Obviously, lots of time went into it. Well done

Here's a poem (not my usual thing) which I hope hasn't been posted here before:

Train of Life

Some folks ride the train of life,
Looking out the rear,
Watching miles of life roll by,
And marking every year.

They sit in sad remembrance
Of wasted days gone by,
And curse their life for what it was,
And hang their head and cry.

But I don’t concern myself with that,
I take a different vent,
I look forward to what life holds,
And not what has been spent.

So strap me to the engine,
As securely as I can be,
I want to be on the front,
To see what I can see.

I want to feel the winds of change,
blowing in my face,
I want to see what life unfolds,
As I move from place to place.

I want to see what’s coming up,
Not looking at the past,
Life’s too short for yesterdays,
It moves along too fast.

So if the ride gets bumpy
While you are looking back,
Go up front, and you may find
Your life has jumped the track.

It’s all right to remember
That’s part of history,
But up front’s where it’s happening,
There’s so much mystery!

The enjoyment of living
Is not where we have been,
It’s looking ever forward
To another year and ten.

It’s searching all the byways,
Never should you refrain,
For if you want to live your life,
You gotta drive the train!

[:)] Peter Stabovitz, Charleston, SC (from the Gondola Gazette, newsletter of the Collis P. Huntington Railroad Historical Society of Huntington, WV) [:)]

[siberianmo]

Good Evening Gents!

I see the return of barndad Doug along with another Post from [b[passengerfan Al, which makes for a fine ending to an interesting day at "Our" Place!

Hope you guyz have purchased tickets in advance of the Grand Re-opening of The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre this coming Monday evening. Should be a great time, especially with the double feature and stage show in between.

Which brings me to Ted - I was hoping you would provide some information regarding who would be performing the "live" portion of that event. Nevertheless, I will have that information available no later than this weekend.

Doug Adding a few photo's to your efforts really fills in the blanks. Selectively inputting such things is most appropriate and a good idea! [tup]

Still awaiting the return of Nick and a bit more frequency from Russell, Dan and Dave - c'mon guys, the holidays have ended! <geesh>

Okay, ring the bell Boris - drinks on me and Leon the Night Man has the bar!

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!