"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[pwolfe]

HI TOM and all
Two free drinks - try and keep me away. Thanks for the kind greetings. It is a long time since I was called wolfman. It brought back good memories. In fact I used to be a werewolf but I'm alright NOOOOOOOO. Sorry English joke.

I am reading the summeries - so much good information. I am hoping perhaps someone could help me ? My wife and I went to Green Bay WI to the N.R.M there, a great museum. They have a British A4 loco DWIGHT D EISENHOWER as well as a BIG BOY a Pennssy electric and other fine locos. My question: is there is another A4 in the CANADIAN RAILROAD MUSEUM. I believe it is Quebec province. If someone could tell me exactly where it would be most helpful.

I hope this is not [#offtopic]. I will get a round in anyway. I'll have pint of Bathams!

[passengerfan]

Hi one more time and i'll have my usual CR and another round for the house. Pwolfe the Canadian Railroad Museum is located at Delson a suburb of Montreal in Quebec province. Another great Canadian Museum is located in Ottawa and the war museum is worth a visit too.

[trolleyboy]

Good evening everyone.Tom A guiness or a harps would be nice. Iv'e as stated have had the old intermitant internet lately but thankfully I've been able to keep up. As for the posts, theree's been several interesting things i was able to sink the teeth into out on the "other forums" but hey i've always got to come back to see what Boris and the gang are up to.Pwolf The quebec museu is just outside of Montreal in Delson. Their collection runs the gammet from electric to diesel to steam to passenger and friegth cars you name it. It would not suprise me if they had the loco you were looking for. I'll defer to Chris though as he's fairly local to the museum in question and has been there recently.Nickyes that is an interesting bit of layout isn't it. I could see it making for a decent interurban or streetcar layout.Add a streetcar wyre or a turning loop on either end and you would be set for continuous running.Labelle woodworkinng and bowser make some halfways decent rolling stock for either option. Bowser can set you up with some decent functioning or non-functioning overhead if you so desire as well.Let me know if you've any further queries or e-mail me.al I'm overawed as always by the breadth of your repository of knowledge.Any idea who sent you that mystery package yet? One would wonder if all the separate Pullman facilities may have in some small way helped end the classic passenger era.All that "service' provided by pullman must have directly impacted the bottom line of the railroads. Diuplication of service and all that.earlyI'm like chris i love hearing the nautical stories. I hope they do give some closure to the families,I would think the not knowing where would rest very heavily on them.Chris Did you catch the Discovery channel documentayr on the finding and exploring of the wreck of HMCS Athabaskin in the bay of Biscay. It was on around Easter.They had some interesting theories on the damage it recieved. From tthe obvious torpedo hits ( where they were located on the hull ) They are now thinking that she was damaged by the German Elbings she and Haida engaged but that the fatal torpedo hit may have been a friendly fire incedent involving a couple of British MTB's that came accross the engagement.pTom I like the new summery idea looks as though it will be a bit less manpower intensive for you.You should be able to enjoy yourself more.I have to say that the "s" looks as though it's shaping up nicely.It was an interesting thread on the forums as well, kind of answers some of the assumptions I was having recently. It's nice that joe tends to explain things in English as opposed to alot of meaningless jargon. Well I'm off for now. Museum crew tomorrow. 90 degree heat and tie's awaiting. Nite all. Rob

[passengerfan]

Good Evening one last time tonight, I'll have a CR and give the boys and any ladies present a round as well. Trolleyboy the mystery envelope has U.S. Postage so that lets Bytown out. Looks like it came from Maryland MD can make that much out on the cancellation. By the way The Canadian Trackside guide they put out has an incredible amount of information in it. Still haven't been able to take it all in yet. Still need info on start up dates and consists where known of several Canadian passenger trains. Will have to get my list to find which ones I still need. But do need start dates and consists for the LRC trains, the Tempo trains also need dates the renaissance equipment first entered service and consist if possible. Have to wonder why Via Rail did not name the new Renaissance sleeping cars only used numbers. Looking at the number of renaissance sleeping cars they received think they should have named them GROVE series after the old CPR 10-5 sleeping cars. At least giving sleeping cars names takes them out of the every day run of the mill passenger car numbering. So far Via has not been helpful where train information is needed. I have even placed long distance calls to them without any luck. To bad they don't have a historian like CPR Omar Lavallee was. I don't think I spelled his name right but when I resided in Canada mean't the fine gentlman several times. Amtrak needs a historian as well.

[siberianmo]

A Good Morning Catch-up to the nite and early morning posts:

passengerfan Al – Nice write up about those passenger shops ….Boggles the mind to think of the huge industries that sprouted up ‘round the railroads and then …. Pffffffft, gone. Just as with the U.S. flag steamship companies. Once upon a time ……

pwolfe Pete [#welcome] Back! [tup] Must have been those two freebies that brought you back, eh [?][swg] Glad to have you ‘round and hope to see more of ya! [yeah] Looks like Wolfman may stick with you now that you’ve been anointed by our British Isles connection, Nick, who is also the Chief Chef ‘round here.

Appreciate your taking the time to provide us with a bit of info within your profile. Really helps us get to know one another ….. [tup] Thanx, Pete!

Jefferson City – well I’ll be. Another neighbor. We’ve got earlydiesel’s Dan down in Springfield and yours truly in Chesterfield. Perhaps a mini-rendezvous is in order! [swg]

On the serious side, I take Amtrak on a daytime roundtrip to JCity every now ‘n then. Last time was on St. Pat’s Day – took a friend along for his B’day present. We wound up going all the way to KCity – total of 15 ½ hours on the train that day …. Never got off in KCity, just hit the Wye …. Picked up the new passengers and headed east. Why, you say [?] Union Pacific had the tracks chock blocked with freights and we spent hours and hours in sididngs. Got into JCity 2 hours late with the eastbound having passed us by shortly after we left Hemann. Ugh.

Also, I used to belong to a group that met quarterly in JCity with MoDOT and others to discuss Amtrak in Missouri; its funding – its future, etc. The group probably still meets, but after 4 years of [banghead] with these folks and recognizing that Amtrak is, has been and probably always will be a hand-to-mouth organization, I decided to use my time in more productive ways.

A pint of Batham’s comin’ up …. Good choice from the mother country … fine Ale indeed. [tup]

Be seein’ ya!

passengerfan Al Thanx for the info on the Canadian Rail museums – I was about to post this info, up until I noticed your post! [tup]

Trolleyboy Rob Thanx for stopping in …. Always good to see you, however – how come we only get to share your thoughts so late and usually only once per day [?] Where are my spooks when I need ‘em – Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary and his earstwhile buddy, Mr. Doyle, Private Investigator will have to be commissioned to look into your whereabouts …….. unless…..

Appreciate the endorsement for the S-gauge … [yeah] It is coming along rather well, slowly, but moving on. Today is THE day – the remainder of my long awaited final order is to arrive. A GP35, a caboose, two box cars and a tank car. Awwwwwright! I’ll post a pix or two ….

Time will tell regarding the new format for the SUMMARIES. It’s been an exasperating ride, for sure ……. And yes, I’ll be able to devote my time to other endeavors for sure.

passengerfan Al VIA Rail operates somewhat like a think tank these days and has done so since the former CEO, Rod Morrison took over. This Renaissance name wasn’t necessarily pulled out of a hat, however, you can bet railroaders had very little to do with the selection. The whole sorry mess with those Chunnel Chuggers darned near broke their budget with Ottawa paying close attention to the spending. The book is still out on ‘em, however, sorry to say – they will be in service for years to come.

I’ll dig through my archives of contacts and send you an Email with a name or two. Perhaps some help is on the way regarding VIA Rail …..

See ya all later!]
Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place

[siberianmo]

WEDNESDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning All! Another day, another chance to do well for the boss! [yeah][wow][tup] Okay – ‘nuf of that …….

How about a cuppa Joe and some great pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery or a light breakfast[?]

News of the day:

(1) This Friday, August 12th is the 4th month of existence for ”Our” Place on the Classic Trains Forum. We are going to have a special event taking place all day – drop by and offer 4 toasts to the continued success of our cyber bar ‘n grill and you’ll get a free frosty tankard of your favorite draught – or – a hefty glass of JD or Crown Royal! [tup]

Bonus: That night, Nick, Chief Chef [C=:-)] will prepare a feast for all – in his own words:

QUOTE: Highland supper evening,---first the ****`a`leekie soup ,then the haggis piped in with due ceremony and observance, next ,the days bag of grouse( actually the birds shot the previous week) a citrus fruit sorbet, a whole double haunch of Welsh black beef roasted mid-well on the outside & mid-rare in the middle followed at a decent interval by a bottle or 6 of a decent single malt

Well, if that doesn’t do it – remember, it’s also Pizza Nite and Steak ‘n Fries nite ‘round here – so be sure to stop by! [tup]

(2) The SUMMARY has undergone a change. Scroll up to read about it …….. This will be the new format, with perhaps a tweak here or there …. But no more redundancy of posts.

Enjoy this fine day one and all!

SUMMARY:
Name - Date/Time - (Page#) - Remarks
(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 08:32:35 (69) Tuesday’s Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 09:38:46 (69) Change to Summary format

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 12:23:52 (69) Customer list

(4) CFournier Chris Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 13:41:39 (69)

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 13:47:47 (69) S-gauge pix

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 13:53:11 (69)

(7) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 14:07:40 (69)

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 14:53:30 (69)

(9) passengerfan Al Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 15:18:30 (69) Pullman info

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 15:34:16 (69)

(11) West Coast S Dave Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 16:38:48 (69)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 17:27:55 (69)

(13) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 19:06:05 (69)

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 19:18:09 (69)

(15) Gunns Kevin Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 19:26:32 (69)

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 19:45:34 (69)

(17) passengerfan Al Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 20:38:37 (69)

(18) pwolfe Pete Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 21:03:47 (69) Second visit and updated profile!

(19) passengerfan Al Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 22:14:31 (70)

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 22:34:14 (70)

(21) passengerfan Al Posted: 09 Aug 2005, 23:01:06 (70)

[22] siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 08:03:48 (70)

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[siberianmo]

CHANGE HAS ARRIVED!

The new format for the SUMMARY replaces all of the redundancy of reposting your messages. As you can determine, the daily blurb from me will contain News and Summary sections.

As always, I will try to respond to each and every post – but not within the SUMMARY. I’ll try to catch up with the late night posts first thing in the morning, followed by the NEWS and SUMMARY.

How to use [?] Simply scroll up or go back to your last visit and read what’s been posted!

Use this as a guide to show who has visited ”Our” Place since the last SUMMARY.

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[Anonymous]

Morning all. I'll take a hot cup of joe and some of those goodies from the Mentor Bakery, please. Just checking in to see what I've missed since yesterday.
I am training a fellow up at the Midland. He is trying to be there every time I run. I don't know how many trips he has as fireman but since I am an engineer instructor I am trying to get him comfortable with the engines. Anyway, he has been copying some narrow guage tapes for me and I have been watching those. Now more than ever, I want to go to Colorado!

[siberianmo]

Mornin' earlydiesels Dan

Have you noticed, we've got another interested customer from Jefferson City in our midst[?] Scroll back a bit - you'll find him. Goes by pwolfe Pete .....

I want to go to Colorado too - but from St. Louis on one of the Eagles. Think you can arrange it[?]

Enjoy the day!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Morning All Guess i'll have cup of joe and one of those diet breakfast goodies from the Mentor Bakery.
The Colorado Eagle in its day was a fine train but near the end it was not much. The better choice was the City of St. Louis a fine streamliner that was eventually cut back to Kansas City. But another option at one time was to take the CB&Q to Burlington Iowa and take tht Denver Zephyr from their. That route was faster then the Colorado Eagle but slower than the City of St. Louis. A fourth option would have taken you to KC on the CB&Q and switch to the Rock Island for the trip to Denver on the Rocky Mountain Rocket. The latter choice was the slowest and it went out of service the earliest. A fifth choice was the CB&Q, MP, or Waba***o Kansas City then take the Santa Fe from KC to La Junta then on to Denver. This route was a match for the Colorado Eagle time wise but a really first class option. Now you can take Amtrak from St. Louis to Chicago and board the California Zephyr for Denver.
As for the Colorado Narrow gauge never rode the Chama service but did take the Durango/ Silverton about twelve years ago and it was incredible. Always had a thing for the Narrow Gauge railroads and was certainly glad to experience the Newfoundland Narrow Gauge before its demise. I know they were not streamliners but the CN Newfoundland Narrow gauge came close with some of their cars.

[siberianmo]

Howdy passengerfan Al

Diet pastries - [yeah]Right! [swg] But, help yourself ......

Given that's it's my fantasy trip to Colorado, I'll take the Eagle BEFORE deterioration set in! [swg]

Whenever I get into my not-so-impressive library of hard cover RR books, I just want to shout when it comes to what was and now what is! Can't handle it. The Union Station here in St. Louis was sooooooo busy and there were soooooooo many fine trains (and not so fine ones to be sure) going pretty much anywhere one desired within the US and Canada. Change is good [?] Oh, I suppose so - but I long for the days of yore - really do.

Thanx for the info and trip to nostalgia!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[alstom]

Can somebody tell me about what this thread is?? It's been up here for awhile...and I don't come to "Classic Trains" to much. Thanks,

Richard

[CFournier]

Hello all,
PWOLF, what is an A4? I go to the Delson museum once or twice a year and we have a Flying Scottsman here. But an A4???
Chris

[Anonymous]

"The reports of my demise have been greatly exaggerated!"[;)] Sorry for the Samuel Clemens paraphrase, couldn't think of anything more appropriate.[:-^] There has been a flury of activity at "Our" Place since my last posting and it will take several installments to "catch me up" on it all.[:O] Otherwise, it would require a "hard bound" edition for a singlular reply.[xx(] I see the cyber "Gremlins" have haunted more than a few of us recently. Seems that no one is immune: DSL broad band, cable, dial-up, et al.

Tom, if I may, a Crown and soda w/twist would be most welcome and a 'round for all kindred souls gathered here, thanks. Hey, the "new" look of the Summaries are as practical as they are functional.[tup] Good thinking from "the Head Shed." Perhaps for now, all of you may forgive the brevity of this Post until I can catch my breath for a more lengthy offering.[:I] Allow me to be the last to welcome wolf man Pete to this fine Establishment for sharing mutual thoughts and activities focusing on "Classic Trains" and rail transportation from around the world. Also, a special welcome "States Side" Pete. Some of the best contributions come from our cousins and neighbors.[:D] Don't mean to leave ayone out, so alstom please read the first few pages of the "Our" Place site for "testing the waters."[tup]

[C=:-)] Nick the "highland supper evening" sounds incredible. Wouldn't miss it for anything. Al, by George you've done it again.[bow] Everything I wanted to know about the Pullman maintenance program and was too ignorant to ask. Rob, thanks for the great mail and subtle humo(u)r. It is totally appreciated.[(-D] Chris it is always a good to read your positive input on so many esoteric subjects. Great to see you "back in the saddle again." As to all of you "proactive" guys doing the "nitty gritty" to save what remains of the "Golden Years;" please know that you are appreciated beyond reckoning.[tup] I just don't know how the deuce you manage in this summer Haydes.

I'm certainly looking forward to the "four toasts" to "Our" Place and the great comradeship that is made possible by "we few..." This Thread away from "threads" is indeed worthy of our mutual praise, don't you think?[^] Okay Boris, one peel and only one please. A few of the clientele have gone into "bell shock" already and my "relative pitch" is fading fast![:(] See all of you Friday, I hope. Happy rails, Ted

[siberianmo]

G'day alstom Richard

[#welcome] Aboard! From the way you phrased your comments, it would appear that you are a novice to the Forums - but then again, looking at the number of Posts you have, I'd say that doesn't jive. Soooooooo, here goes: Wanna know about us [?] Strongly suggest you start at the beginning - page 1. Then go through the pages - paying particular attention to the comments contained in the opening remarks of the SUMMARIES. You'll catch on in no time .... [tup]

We are a cyber bar 'n grill where the discussion of Classic Trains real or model is what we strive for. All with a lot of adult humor injected from time to time. We are NOT like the other threads and don't want to be. Around here we speak to one another and acknowledge the comments made. No hit 'n run stuff here - not welcome at all.

So, if you should decide to stop in again and join in on some adult conv ersation - we'll be happy to have you! Oh yes, first drink is on the house!

By the by, we appreciate knowing who we are talking to and your profile really helps! Thanx ...... [tup]

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[siberianmo]

Tweeeeeet Tweeeeeeet - Rule violation! Tweeeeeeet Tweeeeeeeet. Rule violation!

Huh[?] [yeah] Violation of Rules#1 and #2- entering the premises without greeting the barkeep AND failure to order a drink! [tdn]

Surprised at you, Chris! Try again! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Ted

Happy to see you perched on your permanent stool and partaking in the spirits as well. [tup] Always enjoy having you 'round here - especially since you're on the payroll!!! You are the Manager of this establishment ........ Geesh!

It's been quite an up 'n down situation 'round here since your last prolonged stay ... some new, some not - but it's been a feast or famine week or two. Glad you like the new look, the idea is to get the guys to read and to provide me with a bit of a break as well. I figure this new format will do both - better.

Good post from you, and the inclusiveness goes a long way in keeping us all interested. [tup][tup]

Whaddyamean see us on Friday [?] Not coming in for the Fish 'n Chips tomorrow [?] Give ME one of those things you're drinking ..........

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[pwolfe]

HI Tom and all.
A pint of BATHAMS please[wow] that tastes good.
Thanks passengerfan, trolleyboy, theodorebear for the info and welcome [tup]
cfornier. The engine in I looking for is numbered 60010 and the name is DOMINION OF CANADA I think the Flying Scotsman name is a headboard on the loco,this refers to a train service that ran between London and Edinburgh although there is a Flying Scotsman locomotive,which is an A3 CLASS built from 1922. The A4's were a developement of this with a streamlined curved front end

These locos were from the L.N.E.R. company who used letters to denote wheel arrangement e.g A= 4-6-2 J=0-6-0 etc I hope this is helpful.

There is a A1 class loco being built from scratch hopefully to be finished in 2007.You have to admire these people who attempt this and all who keep the railroads and equipment for us to admire.
[tup]

Well Tom I had better have another BATHAMS. If you are coming through JEFF CITY can you let me know perhaps we could ride AMTRAK to Kansas City to see the new classic diesels which I believe are to go on display at Union station

Hope to be able to call in friday for NICK'S feast sounds great [tup]
PETE.

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and the gang...

Four toast of the best and a round for the house. Welcome back Ted, Nick. Rob and Chris, OK, who can provide some history on Pullman heavyweight Cafe operations in general and the SP specifically? I placed an order for the last two available from Tom's favorite supplier to round out my passenger fleet. Tom the new summary format looks good, had no problems catching up on current events. Where are my manners? I neglected to offer a round for our newcomers as well "welcome aboard".

Pwolf: Since this engine has a connection with history, it stands alone, I know it was taken off display for a appearance at least once since being donated and was considered for possible restoration to operation once.

Some background as to what the history of this particular A4 is. As Supreme Allied Commander, Gen. Eisenhower was provided a British Railways A4 equipped with armour plating and several converted cars to be used for communication, staff, security squad and personal living space . A smilar train was provided, courtesy of the French for use on the continent. After the war, it was donated as a token of appreciation by the British Commonwealth.


Whew'...didn't mean to ramble on..A round of the house best for the gang if you you please, happy 4th all.

Dave[tup]

[siberianmo]

G'day pwolfe Pete

You're off to a grand start 'round here and the guys have taken a liking to what you have to say. Better be careful, this place IS habit forming and we DO NOT provide warning labels!

Hopefully you've had the chance to browse the back pages and become a bit familiar with the cast of characters 'round here. In time, you'll come to know them, as they will surely get to know YOU! [swg]

One thing that we should emphasize 'round here is that Classic Trains are not restricted to those found in North America. Appreciate your comments on those A's -p something many of us may not have known about - or simply knew through pictures. Keep 'em coming ....... [tup]

KCity by Amtrak[?] [yeah] That's a trip I make 4 or 5 times a year. I live about 20 minutes from the Kirkwood station and enjoy the 10 hour round trip aboard the train in business class. Been doing that for about 15 years ....... Next trip [?] Soon! I'm itching to go - but it's a logistics matter for me - gotta work it out with the bride and her work schedule, for we have a Siberian Husky to care for - and we know who comes first 'round here. [swg] So, yes - we could easily hook up for that journey.

Enjoy the evneing!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day West Coast S

They are here! [yeah] The S-gauge trains finally arrived, and man oh man do they look fine. I'll post some pix tomorrow after I get the GP35 hand rails and windows installed .......

Ring the bell, Boris and a round for the house on Dave ....... no Boris ring the bell - the bell! Geesh! And, the 4 toasts are for Friday - and you'll have to state each and every one in order to qualify for those drinks! [swg]

Those heavyweights should look real good - if they are the ones I recently looked at on AM's web site. That outfit is something else - no hurry whatsoever. What IS it with this aspect of the hobby? Really! If S-gaugers and S-scale folks want to pu***he hobby - and they should - I'd say those who are in the manufacturing end of it aren't helping very much. Oh well - I'm fully stocked now - ain't a thing I need, rollilng stock wisse, from this point on. As always, my pikes are built to saturation at the get-go! [swg]

For those who are interested in the model railroads in my life, check out:
http://www.railimages.com/gallery/thomasweber

Oh yes - thanx for the comments on the new SUMMARY! [tup]

See ya!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good evening gang Today i need to start witha double CR and a round for the house.
West Coast S I will do some digging but SP usually kept Pullman out of their comissary revenues. The only lightweight incidence I know of on the SP was the two LARK observations. Since these cars were Sleeper Buffet Lounge cars Pullman operated the cars and they operated between San Jose and Oakland as the Oakland LARK along with a sleeping car where they joined the rest of the Lark from and to LA. These two Observations were capable of providing any meal available in the Lark Club or matching any drink. As to heavyweight Cafe cars the SP owned their own and would not be inclined to share revenue with Pullman. Pullman operated several heavyweight dining cars but do not have any information on Cafe cars operated by Pullman on the SP. Even the heavyweight Daylights that operated Cafe cars during the depression were SP owned. Pullman really owned very few dining cars and can't think of any SP trains that would have operated Pullman owned Cafe cars. The Overland when it was heavyweight and all Pullman operated with C&NW or UP or SP dining cars operating over those lines. Most railroads tried to keep Pullman out of dining and lounge revenues. That is the reason that Pullman didn't own that many dining cars during the heavyweight years. Pullman did build many of the heavyweight dining cars for the railroads including SP but they were owned and crewed by the owning railroads. I'm sure that many heavyweight Cafe cars owned by SP were Pullman built as well.

[siberianmo]

Evenin' passengerfan Al Hmmmmmm - not sure whether "Good evening gang" is a violation of Rule #1 - not greeting the barkeep! Have to think about it ...... [swg]

Hey Boris put down the yard goat and c'mon inside and ring the bell! Time for a round on Al! Strange fella, that Boris. Picked up that switcher like it was a toy ....

I'll just sit back and enjoy the input on what you've had to say .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

The Cast of Characters from ”Our” Place

siberianmo Tom is the Proprietor and head bartender.

Theordorebear Ted is the Manager.

nickinwestwales Nick is Chief Chef.

Boris is - well, he’s Boris who works in the kitchen and anywhere else needed. He was hired by Nick, Chief Chef and is assistant cook. He’s not too hard to spot, as Boris is not of this world. Kinda difficult to maintain eye contact with him. He’s playful and unaware of his strength. We do not permit him to tend bar – however, he loves to ring the bell when a round is purchased.

Leon the Night Man is Tom’s relief behind the bar around 9 PM or so, Central Time. He closes up. He’s easily recognized by his rather large size, enormous hands, and shiny brand new Jump Boots. Leon also serves as Doorman and Bouncer for special events and may be seen in a tuxedo – with Jump Boots of course.

Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary and his earstwhile friend and companion Mr. Doyle, Private Investigator make up the security force ‘round here.

The Gals of “Our Place” are:

Ruth the redhead – Ann the blonde – Lucy the brunette and Jemima the raven haired beauty. These gals were found and hired by Tom and named by Nick. They work evenings, pretty much anywhere in the place, Thursday thru Saturday, and special events. Look, but don’t touch – at least not while on duty!

Then there’s Cindy with the auburn hair. She’s a faculty member from the Mentor Village all female University – right up the road. She’s not paid, but loves to volunteer her services either behind the bar – for me – or in the kitchen, with Nick. She’s also active in the local Victoria’s Secret lingerie shows …….

Then of course, there are all of YOU!

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Tom and any or all of the rest of you.I think a guiness would serve tonight.Tom speaking of serving the new summeries are spot on[tup][yeah]I tend to read late at night as I'm not a morning person and work or the museum takes up the best 12 hours of the day.Also I seem to get a better dial up signal late at night. Or am I actually a vampire of some sort hmmm[xx(][:O][oops] did I say that out loud it was 'spoused to be in my head.pwolf I think your loco is at Delson though I'm sure that I had seen it on display at the Museum of technology in Ottawa. This isn't necessarily an odd thing. Delson's collection is huge and they do have some of their equipment stored or displayed outside of their main facility in Montreal.Ted I'm glad you are still with us. as to the mailed humour, you know the old saying about laughter being the best medacine, if good ones come by I'm happy to share.[tup] I like your pictures BTW, I just haven't figured out how to transfer them yet. Not to worry I'm still working on it.Al Sorry i haven't got any of the VIA info you wanted,hopefully someone will respond to your official queries from VIA itself.Always remember Canadian burocracy tends to be very much monolithic( in both official languages ) I think you got Omar's name right. As an interesting side note he was one of the very early members of our museum as well. Not one of the founders but he was certainly a charter member # 11 or 12 I think. My wife could tell you she was the membership secratary for many years.When Omar passed we lost a very big part of rail heritage.He likley forgot more informantion than he ever managed to publish. I recomend any of his authored or co-authored books. Another possible sorce of info for you would be the BRMNA ( British Rail Modellers of North America ) If you go to our gift shop on the museum web site you will see the books they publish. Soft cover rail info good info on just about anything that passed through canada rail wise,all roads all eras.We had to stop operations at the museum today due to some heavy thunderstorm activity so I ended up in the restoration barn. I'm still picking bits of TTC creame off my skin.We finally started painting large whitt 2424. Her two year refurbishment is almost complete.Regular service with this car should commence in September[yeah] Good to get "Bertha" back.If anyone has been reading the museum's website you will know that car 416 has been a major restoration focus.I looked in on her today and i'm happy to report that her new roof is finished.Tongue and groove (hardwood) and the west vestibule roof is framed and she has a complete new floor installed also hardwood.Electrics windows and vesibules and brake rebuilding still required,but the work has been progressing well.[tup] Well gentlemen and [alien]Boris that's it for tonight. Rob

[CFournier]

Good evening to you gentlemens. TOM, how are you my friend? A cold Double Diammond for me please.
PWOLF, we DO have this particular british loco right here in Delson ( 15 minutes from my house). It is in a nice green paint with number 60010 on, Dominion of Canada on the sides and a red headboard with gold letters spelling Flying Scottsman. It’s a 4-6-2, and it is in a very good shape too. I have a few pictures from my last visit. It is displayed inside the main building. It is my son’s favorite loco at the museum. One strange thing about it is the ``tunnel`` that runs from the back of the tender to the cab of the loco. These locos were so equipped to let a second crew, sleeping in an adjacent car directly coupled to the tender, on the move, move from the car to the inside of the tender and reappear inside the cab! The tender had a door at it’s rear to connect with the car. The tunnel is narrow and low ( a bump on my head...) On first sight I tought it was a Mallard loco... Is it the same? Now if I could only post pictures on this forum...
Trolleyboy, I did not see the docmentary on the sinking of the Athabaskan, (a canadian destroyer for our american friends). BTW, when I’m in Toronto I always visit the Haida in the harbor, a well preserved tribal class destroyer of the RCN. I remember visiting the North-Carolina in Wilmington, the Massachusset in Fall River, RI, the Intrepid and a destroyer in NY, some other USN ships in Buffalo,in Savannah, and a sub in San Francisco.
Chris

[Gunns]

Hi Tom,
Coffee please <Yep am back at work.>
was work day today at the 2926 site, it was hot, but much got done. a sandwich please, more later,
Gunns

[siberianmo]

Early mornin' Rob

Insomnia night for me and there's no particular reason that I can think of. Happens .... moreso as one ages. YOU'LL ALL FIND THAT OUT one day (night!). [swg]

Appreciate the endorsement for the new SUMMARY format - thanx! And, another thanx for the Emails. [tup]

With regard to those VIA Rail Renaissance cars that we picked up on in the Emails, who knows what's next for them insofar as modifications go[?] The cars just weren't built for the type of travel one expects while riding Canadian rails. As a letter-writer over the years to VIA Rail's CEO's (and there have been a few!), I've voiced an opinion or two - and to their credit, received responses - about the introduction and use of the Euro cars for overnight travel. Now, they've done a great job with that dining car - it truly is appointed well - kudoos to the work done in conversion. The food preparation[?] An abomination for sure. It isn't microwave, nor is it conduction - something similar - akin to airline meals with more portions. Taste [?] Not for me and not again. Bedroom cars are weird - just weird. Every other room has the seating backwards when the beds are in the up position. Backwards doesn't get it and apparently there's no money to convert them. Oh the interiors are nicely done - really are. But then again, new is most times - nice. I do lilke the toilet facilities and sink separate from the sleeping area - nice touch. The beds are smaller than those of the Budd variety and storage space is absolutely lacking, especially for suitcases. Nah - no more of that. The coaches are fantastic - nicely done and much better suited for Corridor than the Ocean Single seating along one side - double on the other; very large windows - very comfortable and spacious seats - cart snack and beverage service. Nicely done - too bad a seat in the coach doesn't come along with the bedroom booking! They do let you sit there, space permitting of course. Then there is the issue of the dome cars - or lack thereof. VIA Rail has decided to put on a Budd observation dome (or dome observation, for those who prefer that order of words) for the tourist season on the Ocean. Now that looks plainly funky really. Anyway, they've added a tourist flavor to the train which I suppose is geared to give one a snippet of what you experience these days aboard the Canadian while crossing Canada. With their Learning Coordinator and push for seats in the 24-seat configured dome, the ambiance has been changed so much that ........ I could go on and on and on ...... Just not my cuppa, so to speak. [tdn] overall.

Actually, after 15 years of travel between Montreal and Halifax, we consider ourselves fortunate indeed to have experienced so much pleasure while riding the Ocean, a jewel of Canadian passenger railroading for sure - over 100 years in running. Too bad they've turned it into a tourist train (May-Oct) and a shame that the Budd cars go off the line for keeps on Jan 1st.

It will be interesting to read ***'s accountings of their return trip to Montreal from Halifax when he checks in with us again. Hopefully a bit more pleasant for them than the initial journey.

Catch you later ....... [;)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Very early mornin' to ya Chris

Now, THAT's better .... [swg] ..... one thing I learned quickly aboard ship, never - ever, offend the cook. Same thing with a bar - we barkeeps are sensitive! [swg]

Well, I'm convinced - I'm gong to have to visit the museum at Delson. We're contemplating a trip to Ottawa this November - still in the early planning stages. We have the time - it's the costs of the air fare that prevents us from booking right now. Anyway, we'll more than llkely fly to Toronto and then take VIA Rail to Ottawa - stay a couple of nights - rent car, etc. So, from downtown - where's Delson[?] I know I could research it easily enough - but it's good conversation for us all! Thanx. [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Early mornin' to ya, Gunns Kevin

Just wanted to acknowledge that you've stopped by .... talking about hot, we made it to 99 (F) on Wednesday - and will be near that again today. Been a brutal July/Aug 'round these parts - worst I can recall since living here from 1977 on ....... especially with the insufficient rain fall. Not good ......

Next time, you owe us some train talk! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]