"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon!

I almost totally forgot - we had a WHITE CHRISTMAS! [yeah] It rained well into the night, but when we awoke to take Juneau for his very early AM walk, the snow was falling. Big, heavy flakes - sticking to everything but the streets, which isn't all that bad. Guess we had about an inch or a bit over. Made for a great start to a wonderful day. It's all gone now - but, who cares [?] A WHITE CHRISTMAS is a rarity in these parts, in these times.

Okay - on with the ENCORE!

Here’s another Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads: (previously Posted on page 124)

Union Pacific (UP) – (passenger ops)

Headquarters: Omaha, NE

Mileage:

1950: 9,9720
1996: 22,785 (trackage rights included)

Locomotives as of 1963:

Steam: 29
Diesel: 1,347
Gas-turbine: 49

Rolling stock in 1963: Freight cars - 54,959 Passenger cars – 851

Principal lines in 1950:

Omaha-Ogden, UT via Cheyenne, WY
Ogden-Los Angeles via Las Vegas, NV
Julesburg-La Salle, CO
Granger, WY-Seattle, WA via Montpelier, ID & Portland, OR
Pocatello, ID-Butte, MT
Hinkle, OR-Spokane, WA
Ogden-McCammon (Pocatello)
Cheyenne & Borie-Kansas City via Denver
Topeka, KS-Gibbon, NE
Marysville, KS-Valley (Fremont) NE

Principal lines added as of 1996:

Salt Lake City, UT-Oakland, CA via Sacramento, CA
Freemont & Omaha-Chicago
Nelson, IL-St. Louis
Chicago-Green Bay via Kenosha and Oshkosh, WI
Chicago-Milwaukee via Bain, WI
Milwaukee-Minneapolis
Minneapolis-Kansas City via Des Moines, IA
Minneapolis-Omaha via Sioux City, IA
Chicago-Madison, WI

Plus the MoPac/ subsidiary lines:

Omaha-St. Louis via Kansas City
Chicago-Houston via Pana, Dupo (St. Louis) and Thebes, IL, Little Rock, AR and Palestine, TX
Houston-Brownsville, TXPalestine-Laredo, TX via Austin
Houston-New Orleans via Baton Rouge, LA
Kansas City-Little Rock, AR via Coffeyville, KS
El Paso, TX-New Orleans via Fort Worth and Shreveport, LA
Kansas City-Pueblo, CO

Passenger trains of note:

Butte Special (Salt Lake City, UT-Butte, MT)
Challenger (Chicago-Los Angeles)
City of Las Vegas (Los Angeles-Las Vegas)
City of Denver (Chicago-Denver)
City of Los Angeles (Chicago-Los Angeles via Cheyenne, WY)
City of Portland (Chicago-Portland, OR via Cheyenne [via Denver 1959-68])
City of Salina (Kansas City-Topeka-Salina, KS)
City of St. Louis (St. Louis-Los Angeles & San Francisco & Portland via Kansas City & Denver)
City of San Francisco (Chicago-Oakville, CA via Cheyenne)
Columbine (Omaha-Denver)
Forty Niner (Chicago-Oakland)
Gold Coast (Chicago-Oakland & Los Angeles)
Idahoan (Cheyenne-Portland via Pocatello)
Los Angeles Limited (Chicago-Los Angeles)
Pony Express (Kansas City-Los Angeles)
Portland Rose (Denver-Portland)
San Francisco Overland (Chicago-Oakland; after 1955 St. Louis-Oakland)
The Spokane (Spokane, WA-Portland)
Utahn (Cheyenne-Los Angeles)
Yellowstone Special (Pocatello, ID-West Yellowstone, MT)

Of note: UP trains serving Chicago operated Omaha-Chicago via C&NW until Oct 1955, then via Milwaukee Road 1955-71. All UP trains serving St. Louis operated via Wabash between St. Louis & Kansas City.


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

Are YOU getting the most CURRENT information when you log in [?] If not, why not [?]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

Here’s another Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads: (first appeared on page 119)

Delaware & Hudson (D&H)

Headquarters: Albany, NY

Route mileage in 1950: 765 – 2000: 1,381

Locomotives in 1963: Diesels – 153

Rolling stock in 1963: Freight cars – 9,394 Passenger cars – 55

Principal lines in 1950:

Albany-Troy-Mechanicville, NY – Montreal, QC (Napierville Junction Railway trackage Rouses Point, NY-Montreal)
Binghamton-Oswego, NY (Erie trackage)
Nineveh, NY-Wilkes Barre, PA
Hudson-Buttonwood Yard, PA
Delanson-Mechanicville, NY
Schenectady-Balston Spa, NY
Saratoga Springs-Tahawus, NY (U.S. Government trackage North Creek-Tahawus)
Troy-Castleton, VT (B&M trackage Troy-Eagle Bridge, NY)
Whitehall, NY-Rutland, VT
Plattsburg-Lyon Mountain, NY
Plattsburg-Ausable Forks, NY
Fort Ticonderoga-Ticonderoga, NY
Oneonta-Cooperstown, NY
Cobleskill-Cherry Valley, NY

Using CONRAIL trackage in 1976:

Oswego-Buffalo & Niagara Falls, NY
Wilkes Barre-Harrisburg,PA-Washington, DC
Scranton-Allentown, PA-Newark, NJ
Allentown-Philadelphia

Passenger trains of note:

Laurentian (New York-Albany-Montreal)
Montreal Limited (New York-Albany-Montreal)

Of note:
All cars south of Albany handled by NYC.

Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

Are YOU getting the most CURRENT information when you log in [?] If not, why not [?]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

And the commercialism of the season continues on as the ru***o the stores to get those "bargains" continues. Ah, the joy of it all! [tdn]

We had a marvelous Christmas at our house, and in spite of the miles separating us from loved ones, the telephone somehow manages to bring us together, even if only in voice. [tup]

Yes, earlydiesels Dan we have seen the Polar Express and also have the DVD. In my contributions to this thread, there are many references to it being a "top shelf" flick, destined to become one of the Classics for Christmases to come. [tup][tup][tup] And I'm sure you've seen my Polar Express Lionel O-gauge shelf railroad pix.

Given that this is an animated movie, with a totallly wonderful fictitious story line, WHO CARES ABOUT "inaccuracies!" [?] <geesh> What in the world can be "inaccurate" when it comes to the mind's eye of the creator of that story [?] Nonetheless, we have viewed it several times as well and have to say that the "extra" DVD with our set really contains some "good stuff" as well.

Hollywood and movies have taken license with virtually every thing they produce, or so it seems. Just think about the last production of the bombing of Pearl Harbor - that surely was a revisionists effort - hardly placed the blame where it belonged, etc., etc. How many in our society, and perhaps throughout the world, view movies and come away with believing that what was portrayed is precisely how it happened. Sad. So, your Santa Fe train comments should be of no suprise at all. Just part of what THEY consider to be entertainment, I suppose. Another one that comes to mind is "Mississippi Burning," totally off track insofar as the facts are concerned - but, once again, THEY decided to tinker with reality in order to produce what they believe to be "entertainment." <ugh>

I noticed that no one Posted here yesterday, which is a first for us. I am thankful that our regulars at least all held the line on something. Perhaps there IS hope! [swg]

I'm about talked out this AM, so it's back to what we were doing 'round here and I'll get a couple or more ENCORE! pieces out throughout the day.

Good to "hear" from you this day, Ted and hope all's well down your way. Also, Doug you can always apply for a 2nd mortgate at the Second National Bank of Mentor Village should the well indeed run dry! [swg]

wanswheel Mike Surely you know that "Boxing Day" has nothing to do with fisticuffs and the so-called 'sport' of boxing!

Somewhere in the archives of far ago family tint types is a pix of me sitting on the lap of Jack Dempsey. Long story, but bottom line is my father knew him - he also boxed and his claim to fame was being on the card with Jack for one of his title fights. Anyway, quite a guy, different times and never to be relived again.

Interesting URLs as always. Appreciate your efforts.[tup][tup]

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[wanswheel]

Hi Tom and all, nothing does it like 7-Up and Christmas cookies, if there's any left, and here's a toast to all who celebrate the day after:

"By the age of 16 Dempsey was a hobo, riding railroad freight cars from town to town across the Midwest, taking fights wherever he could. He would often fight men who were older, stronger and more experienced than himself. Fighting under the alias Kid Blackie at the time, often his only compensation was a free meal at the saloon where he fought. It is unclear how many fights Dempsey took before his first official pro fight in 1914, but it was likely near 100 fights. Boxing is very different today. In Dempsey's day there were no sanctioning bodies. Fights were often unfair matchups, fixed outcomes or downright bizarre contests. In 1922, Dempsey was slated to fight three fighters on the same night before receiving a telegram just before getting into the ring from the New York Boxing Commission stating that he would only be permitted to fight one person that night and that the bout was required to go to a decision. Its obvious boxing was quite different in those days. In addition to the bizarre contests and absent or strange regulations, there was no three knock down rule and no neutral corner rule. You could literally hover over your opponent and punch him as he attempted to get up from the canvas. For those who think boxing today is barbaric, take a look at boxing during Dempsey's era!" (RingsideReport.com)

http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/120.shtml Happy Boxing Day
http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/980.shtml Polar Express
http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/bingc.shtml Dreaming of a White Christmas
http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/1375-d.shtml Thanks for the memories
http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/982-f.shtml Christmas stockings filled
http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/38.shtml 5-Star service on the Union Pacific
http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/photos/celebrities/270.shtml "Well...."

[Anonymous]

Good morning, Tom. I will take a bottomless cuppa Joe and some plain donuts from the bakery. I sure hope everyone had a great Christmas. The wife and I went to her folks and that's it. Sat around the house. We didn't even get each other a gift this year. Since the health scare I've had twice this year, we decided we just want each other. Christmas is indeed a time for reflection. I thought of my departed parents,long lost friends, and bygone times. I am thankful for what I have and high on that list, are my friends. Included are the regulars of OUR PLACE. Although I've only met Russell in person, I feel everyone else is a bunch of good guys!
Watched "White Christmas" with Bing Crosby Christmas eve. Never seen it before and found it a delightful movie. Had some train sequences in it and were wondering about the realities of them. One inaccuracy I noticed was a Santa Fe passenger train racing by the camera when the storyline was the main characters were heading to New York from Florida. That should have been ACL or SAL perhaps. How about the onboard sequences??? Were the drawing rooms, diner, and vestibule scenes accurate??? I enjoyed the conductor's uniform. How about some specifics about the station shots and the heavyweight equipment shown??? Gentlemen, I must rely on your knowledge and experiences for these answers. I hate inaccuracies in films.
Speaking of films. I hope everyone has seen "Polar Express". We got a DVD copy recently after seeing the film twice at the theater last year. Just a few inaccuracies in it as far as the railroad sequences (defying gravity excepted!).

[Anonymous]

Good Morning all of you holiday survivors. Tom, I'll indulge in some of yesterday's Christmas cookies, pastries and a cuppa Java. I trust everyone had a happy Yuletide and looking forward to a better 2006. This year was rough but exactly one year ago the worst cataclysm in modern times hit Indonesia, Sri Lanka and India claiming over 200,000 lives. Let's hope for their recovery and remember with humility how really frail we are in the face of natural forces. Yesterday, was much like the Christmas tune "Silent Night" hereabouts. With just a few friends and lots of fond memories, I languished in the serenity of the season rather than the helter skelter gift swaping too often repeated in the past. I highly recommend this approach as it it is so much more purposful than the other alternatives. As you know "Our" Place is closed on New Years Day which is probably a good thing. Again, this special Day of renewal may be celebrated with wild reckless abandon, as is the custom, or a thoughtful inventory of the past year's fortunes along with the folly. Resolutions? A nice custom but merely a passing thought for most of us. For me, jotting down unfulfilled goals and wishes for the future will bring sharper focus on how "short life really is." Maybe something as simple as taking that postponed trip we have always dreamed about or setting our sights a little higher than before can bring some urgency to our attention. We surely can't stop the clock which is exactly what we wish for by taking no action toward fulfilling our hopes and wishes. Okay, enough of the [#offtopic] [soapbox] ramblings from me. Boris, you can take the mistletoe off your Elve's cap now. If it didn't work for Christmas, it won't work for New Year's Eve either.[alien] Happy rails to all.

[siberianmo]

All of our regulars know about the Birthday Watch List .... however, it needs to be posted repeatedly, just as a reminder regarding who is coming up next for the Birthday Bash ......

2005 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST (rev. Dec 25th):

February 2nd (Kevin – 49)
March 5th (Nick – 45)
April 18 (Al - 63)
May 18th (Tom - 67)
May 27th (Dave - 46)
June 3rd (John) – 46 Just added!
June 24th (Dan - 43)
July 15th (*** – 65)
July 25th (Chris - 51)
July 30th (Russell – 34)
August 16th (Ted - 67)
September 8th (Rob - 34)
December 29th (CM3) – 59 Next up! Friday, January 6th!!

Not on the list [?] Send me an Email with your birth date (month-day-year).
Corrections too!

Names of those in The Legion of the Lost will be dropped in 2006.

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



NOTE for all: Check the SUMMARIES

[siberianmo]

MONDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

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

Good Morning on this day after Christmas – Boxing Day in Canada and Great Britain. Join us in a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and our specially prepared <light> breakfasts! [tup] [swg]

ENCORE! Daily Wisdom:

Love your enemies, but keep your gun oiled!


Info for the Day:

(1) repeatBirthday Bash for CM3 set for Friday, January 6th!

(2) I suspect this week will be rather light insofar as patrons are concerned, so many of my Posts will be ENCORE! pieces. Enjoy! For barndad Doug – passengerfan Al and trolleyboy Rob recommend you go with ENCORE! pieces and “save” your newer work until January 2nd.

(3) The next Sunday Photo Posting Day! is January 8th.

SUMMARY

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

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 08:27:48 (201) Saturday Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 08:45:27 (201) Acknowledgments, etc.

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 08:58:19 (201) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #1

(4) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 09:37:41 (201) Season’s Greetings!, etc.

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 09:47:59 (201) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #2

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 10:14:11 (201) VIA Rail strike

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 11:31:49 (201) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #3

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 12:08:43 (201) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #4

(9) barndad Doug Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 12:20:55 (201) Inclusive Post & Steam Delights of India, Part V

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 13:14:26 (201) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #5

(11) BudKarr BK Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 13:34:19 (201) Season’s Greetings!, etc.

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 13:43:15 (201) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #6

(13) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 14:09:51 (201) Inclusive Post! Season’s Greetings!

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 14:31:33 (202) Acknowledgments, etc.

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 14:37:37 (202) ENCORE! Christmas Travel #7

(16) wrwatkins *** Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 14:41:12 (202) He’s baaaaaaack, I think!

(17) pwolfe Pete Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 15:07:02 (202) Season’s Greetings!

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 15:49:36 (202) Acknowledgments Christmas Travel #8

(19) passengerfan Al Posted: 24 Dec 2005, 17:31:04 (202) Season’s Greetings!

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

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



From siberianmo’s home: (click to enlarge)

[passengerfan]

JUst want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Years .
Plan on spending a few days with friends and family

TTFN AL

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon!

Well, it has finally come down to the final Post of the day for me <phew!> and a nice way to wind up the day is to acknoweldge the return (albeit temporary I would guess) of wrwatkins *** and of course our earstwhile regular, pwofle Pete!

Without further delay, here is #8 and final!

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #8 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . THE PULLMAN COMPANY . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1948 advertisement in my private collection:

Happy holiday homecoming by Pullman!

This year let your trip itself be a holiday! make it A pleasure all the way – by Pullman. No driving tensions or weather worries . . . no time-wasting stops for meals or lodging. The miles slip by safely and swiftly. You and your family enjoy the peace, quiet and relaxation of your private Pullman “living room.” This very holiday season, take the greatest trip on earth. Home for the holidays by Pullman!

A full night’s rest! For dad, mother and every young member of the family – sleep just comes naturally in soft, king-sized Pullman beds. Next morning everyone’s fresh and rested . . . ready for a busy day.

Your local Ticket Agent will help: 1. Provide information on routes and fares. 2. Help you plan stopovers. 3. Furnish rail and Pullman tickets. 4 Reserve a “rent-a-car” at your destination.

. . . . . . . . . . YOU’RE SAFE AND SURE WHEN YOU TRAVEL BY . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . PULLMAN. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . the travel service of comfort, privacy and sleep! . . . . .


That’s it for this day – hope you enjoyed these advertisements from Christmas seasons past. It was my pleasure to present them to you!

Leon the Night Man has the bar until CLOSING at 6 PM. See y'all on Monday ......


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

MERRY CHRISTMAS! to one and all!

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom And all.
A very quick Bathams I'm afraid.

I have been out this morning and we are going again soon and will not be back till after 6 o' clock. I will definatly catch up on the recent posts. But I wanted to wish all the Regulars ,friends and of course our esteemed bar owner.

A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR
.
And on a Classic Train note in the wordsof a character of an author whose name graced a turn of the century L.& N. W. R. 4-4-0 and later a B.R. Standard Britannia class 4-6-2 loco#70033 CHARLES DICKENS ( a Manchester(Longsight) shedded engine and a regular through Rugby). God Bless Us One And All. PETE.

[Anonymous]

Merry Christmas y'all. Tom, et al, it has been a while since I last posted and I do apologize for this. The fall quarter at work is by far our busyist time of the year with me working 10 hours per day. This is in addition to the 1 1/2 hour commute I have at the beginning and end of the day. Get home about 7:30 PM, have a light meal and a martini (not necessarly in tha order) then hit the hay. The day starts at 4:30 AM. Fortunately i retire in 2313 hours and 25 minutes. Really looking forward to getting away from the grind. Another reason for my absence is that the computer gremlins have denied me access to about 2/3 of the web including Trains. Cannot figure this out. I can pull up the Yahoo home page, but any of the links (maps, finance, news, etc) will come up with access denied. Do any of the computer gurus out there in the vase ether of the inernet have any suggestions.? For the holidays we are at our daughter's in Austin and she does not have the problem that I have at home. With some luck i will get the computer fixed and be able to communicate again.

Anyway a very merry holiday (correction: Christmas) and a Happy New Year. (I am not politically correct) Hope to be more communicative in the future.

***

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon!

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #7 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1953 advertisement in my private collection:

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

Christmas Window on the Water Level Route

Watch New York Central trains roll past this time of year. You’ll see Christmas windows by the hundred . . . bright with the most precious of all gifts. People!

Couples taking their children to see Grandmother (on money-saving Family Fares). Older folk, off to spend Christmas with married sons or daughters - enjoying ever minute of New York Central comfort.

Youngsters from school or college getting a first taste of holiday fare in the dining car. Fathers, away on business, taking it easy in the club car . . . sure that New York Central will get them home “weather or not.”

Those are the year’s favorite jobs for New York Central men and women. So whether you ride with us or meet the train . . . here’s wishing you a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Give Tickets – The Gift that Brings Them Home!
. . . Ask any Central ticket agent how easy it is to
. . . send rail and Pullman tickets as your gift
. . . to someone you want with you at holiday time.


. . . . . . . . . . New York Central . . . . . . . . . .

The Water Level-Route – You Can Sleep


Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

Just a few short words before winding down and getting ready for the "doings" on Christmas Eve night!

I see we've had a few respondents to today, which of course is a good deal for the bar 'n grill - KaChing, KaChing! [swg]

Thanx to all who sent me Email Christmas greetings! Much appreciated and I am happy that you enjoyed mine. [tup]

Today, I'm trying to ensure that there's a little something here for all - that's why the continuous nature of the Postings. Really didn't expect any dialogue. In case anyone is wondering - yes, I really do have a life away from this keyboard! [swg] It's just the three of us 'round here and we're all finished insofar as anything of importance is concerned with the preparation for the "big day!" Those days and times are really long gone for the both of us, and Juneau isn't hard to please! <grin>

Thanx, BK for your kind words here and over at the "other" thread. I more than likely will indeed pull the plug on it at the end of this year. It has been much like talking to myself. <grin> No sweat - nothing ventured, nothing gained. And guess what [?] We did indeed wind up with some new faces over here because of it. So, for that, I'd say we came out ahead! [tup][tup][tup]

Rob Enjoy this Christmas as never before in your adult life - you've earned the break, mon ami! [tup]

Dan Good to see you again, was beginning to wonder whether your days with us as a regular had wound down. Hey, we all understand work and play and how the mixture sometimes conflicts! [swg] Enjoy your Christmas! and we're all happy to know you are back in good health! [yeah]

Doug Glad to know your trip to the big city was a successful one. Hope the kids liked the tran ride, after all that surely had to be the REASON for it all! [swg]


Okay, Gents - I think that just about catches me up for this wonderful day. I'm outta here shortly, with Leon the Night Man handling things until 6 PM.

I have two more ENCORE! pieces, then I'm G-O-N-E! [swg]

Catch y'all on Monday morning!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

MERRY CHRISTMAS! to one and all!

[trolleyboy]

Good afternoon everyone. Tom I'll grab some of BK's spiked nog and fruit cake. I never turn down a good fruit cake.

Tom Wonderfull xmas series that you are posting today,I'm also glad that VIA was able to square away their difficulties.


CM3 Wonderfull bit o poetry my friend , love the classic old railway tales fer sure.

Ted I'll comment after xmas on your PCC inquirey as it
's a busy day today and I haven't the time at the moment to respond coherently.

Don Excellent continuing 'F' info. Like Ted I would love more of the nitty and gritty as to the differences,I know that in most cases ( as with E units ) it was minor powerplant changes and window and louver sublties.

BK Yhanks for popping back in. Wonderfull pics of lioving steam as well. Do enjoy yourself at lake Louise. I've never stayed over night there but we did have lunch there on my only trip west with my family many moons ago ( I was 11. So it's a long over do for repeating )


Finally I hope everyone has the Happiest holiday's possible. Enjoy the times with your friends and families, I will see everyone again on the 26th.


Rob & Heather

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon!

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #6 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . THE PULLMAN COMPANY . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday retyped taken from a 1950 advertisement in my private collection:

. . . . . 3 questions to ask when you plan your Christmas trip . . . . .

1. “How safe?” – The weather is something you do
not worry about – when you go Pullman over the
Christmas holidays. Throughout your trip your
peace of mind is as weather-proof as your Pullman
Accommodations. You know you’re even safer in a
Pullman crossing the country than you are in your
Own home.

. . . . . 2. “How comfortable?” Your mind is as carefree as
. . . . . a child’s as you sleep deep and undisturbed on your
. . . . . Pullman bed. And in the morning you freshen up
. . . . . and dress at your leisure. You have complete toilet
. . . . . facilities, hot and cold running water, everything
. . . . . you need to prepare for a welcome Santa himself
. . . . . would envy.

3. “How dependable?” You get where you want to
be when you want to be there . . . when you go
Pullman. and you’re the very spirit of Christmas
as you arrive in the center of town – rested, relaxed,
Rady for fun. (Christmas season or any season,)
Go Pullman – the safe, comfortable, dependable
Answer to all your travel questions.)

. . . . . It won’t be Christmas without you. So plan
. . . . . now to go home for the holidays. And for railroad
. . . . . travel at its best, plan to go Pullman. To be sure
. . . . . of getting the reservations you want, see your
. . . . . ticket agent early.

. . . . . . . . . . . . Go Pullman . . . . . . . . . . . . .

COMFORTABLE, DEPENDABLE, AND-ABOVE ALL – SAFE!


Enjoy(again)!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[BudKarr]

Good Day Captain Tom and Gentlemen at the Bar!

My apologies for not checking in yesterday afternoon. The best of intentions, is all that I can offer. Events here in the mountains precluded sitting at the terminal. I could easily get accustomed to this lifestyle ..... <grin> (My words are being observed by my over-the-shoulder companion!)

Just a note to those who have commented on my recent input - thank you! Also, I recognize that this is not the day for long-winded postings nor do I expect a reply. Captain Tom surely deserves a break and mine is not to burden him with chit chat that can easily occur next week.

Therefore, let me wish one and all the Merriest of Christmases and best wishes for all that follows!

I will attempt to check back before our trip.

BK in Alberta, Canada

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon!

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #5 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1950 advertisement in my private collection:

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

. . . . . . . . . . Merry Christmas from all . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . on your New York Central overnighter . . . . . . .

WHEN GOING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS,
Delay you can’t afford.
So take the train. For, storm or rain,
I’ll still say, “ALL ABOARD!”

Your N.Y.C. Conductor

. . . . . SEASONS GREETINGS!” Come in and dine.
. . . . . No other travel has meals as fine.
. . . . . The varied, fresh-cooked food’s a treat,
. . . . . And you can sight-see while you eat!

. . . . . Your N.Y.C. Diner Crew

MY GIFT TO YOU is perfect rest.
Your big, soft bed’s the very best.
So sleep, and wake up fresh next day.
You’re traveling world’s safest way!

Your N.Y.C. Pullman Porter

. . . . . THE BEST OF HOLIDAY GOOD CHEER
. . . . . And sociability are here.
. . . . . Enjoy refreshments, relaxation
. . . . . Aboard your Central observation.

. . . . . Your N.Y.C. Club Car Steward

WHITE CHRISTMAS in a song is swell.
But when you plan to travel – well,
If you’d be certain to arrive,
Best go by train, and let me drive!

Your N.Y.C. Engineer

PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY HOME-COMING ON NEW YORK CENTRAL’S GREAT FLEET OF DIESELINERS

. . . . . . . . . . GIFT IDEA! A TRIP HOME . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Ask your New York Central . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . ticket agent about arranging . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . tickets and reservations as . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . your gift to a parent or youngster, . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . brother or sister away from home. . . . . . . . . . .


. . . . . . . . . . New York Central . . . . . . . . . .

The Water Level-Route – You Can Sleep


Enjoy (again)!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good afternoon Tom and friends! I'll have a light pilsnor, and my freebie steak for winning the contest! Please set-up a round for the rest of the gang. We just got back from a small family reunion in Chicago. I thought of you guys often, as noticed a few things here and there. I’ll have some pix to share with ya’ll come January 8th from the trip, including the “G” scale layouts in the John Hancock and some ceiling layouts at Butch’s. Got a Chicago trolley parked in front of the Water Tower for Rob too. Great nostalgic adds on the U.P. and Southern Railroad Tom. I guess the Canadian Engineer union settled? Don’t worry about your typing … I use two-elbows over here! By the way, great job keeping “our Place” running so well during these busy times, and somehow keeping your marriage intact while doing so!

Ted, thanks for the reminder that there was actually some incredible railway travel in the Sultan cars of the British East India Trade Company.

Mike, thanks for the great Budd links and information on CM3’s Traveler poem. I especially liked your other links on fruitcake, Santa Express and decorated trains. Really great stuff Mike … but are you actually implying that there was some sort of behind-the-scenes “contest fixing” going on? (I told you guys we might get caught!)

Rob, great Streetcar/Trolley/Radial info! Even I now understand why the cars might be referred to as “Radials”. Took me long enough to get it!

Al, thanks for the El Capitan and AuRoRa Streamliners. Very informative!

CM3, I enjoyed your New Haven FL9 and diesel/electric posts, and most definitely the Lost Traveler poem.

Pete, I like your “trotter coffer” name for the better than the ones I suggested.

BK, congratulations on being the 1st poster on page 200! Hope you’re enjoying your Christmas in the mountains, and thanks for the very interesting post on the BESA Class 4-6-0 in India, and the wonderful pix!

Don, I’m really enjoying, and trying to understand your continuing "F Saga" series. Breaking the information into features, variations and nomenclature really helps!

Here’s the 5th part of my India series. There will be just one more!

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

A 1940s vintage War Department 2-8-0 Baldwin switches past high-level platform


Further west one encounters a most unique meter gauge railroad under the jurisdiction of the Southern Railway, fondly known as the “Ooty Line.” It is easiest reached by taking the broad gauge diesel hauled “Nilagiri Express” departing Madras at 9:00 p.m. The traveler arrives at Coimbatore Jct. the next morning, situated in a hot dry plain, but the cool enticing Nilagiri (Blue) Mountains loom in the distance. This is the primary location where Baldwin built AWC class 2-8-0s may be observed in shunting service. At this station a WP takes over the chores to Mettuppalaiyam where one transfers across the platform to the blue and white coaches of the Ooty Line.

To escape the burning heat of the summer months in the south, the British officials decided to build a 28 ¾ mile line rising from the 1,071 foot level at Mettuppalaiyam to 7,228 feet at Ootacamund, which is the terminus. The line is still used today as a means to flee the hot, humid lowlands. The unique feature of this railroad is that part of it is traversed by adhesion and the other half by rack. Motive power is 100 percent steam in the form of 11 class X 0-8-2Ts built in Switzerland from 1914 through 1952. They are a four cylinder compound with all four cylinders outside. When working the adhesion section, the engine works as a simple two-cylinder, driving the regular wheels. On the rack sections, working is changed over to compound and the low-pressure cylinders drive the rack pinion. The rich blue livery of the locomotives matches the coaches which they push up the grade. The locomotives are fitted with special braking and safety devices. The first 17.36 miles are rack worked with sections inclined at 1 in 12 ½ and contains some breath-taking scenery with many trestles, sharp curves and mountains up to the main depot at Coonor. Gentle rolling hills punctuate the final 11.16 mile adhesion worked portion of the line to Ootacamund with grades averaging 1 in 25 which is steep enough. An ammunition factory located along this section of track provides the bulk of the freight traffic. The locomotives are fascinating to watch in motion because the rack gear whirls in opposite motion to the main driving wheel rods, providing a flurry of dizzy action.

India is just beginning to industrialize so there few industrial railroads in this country, but one worth mentioning is about 100 miles north of Ootacamund at Bhadravati on the Southern Railway’s meter gauge branch running northwest from Birur. The Visvesvaraya Iron & Steel Co. (formerly Mysore Iron & Steel) operates some intriguing examples of 19th century steam power as well as some huge two-foot gauge Bagnell-built 2-8-2s operating on their mineral lines.

Another railway built by the Briti***o escape the summer heat for its soldiers as well as for its strategic importance due to location and altitude, is the spectacular Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Construction of the 54-mile two-foot gauge steam rail line was started in 1879. A path for the narrow ribbons of rail was hacked out of the jungles filled with elephants, tigers and leopards. By 1881 the little trains were puffing into the mountain resort of Darjeeling. Even if this line were not steam worked, it would be an incredible tourist attraction. The railway climbs to a height of 7,400 feet at Ghoom, the highest altitude of any Indian railway, before dropping to 6,700 feet at Darjeeling. Coming under the North-East Frontier Railway’s domain, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s terminus is at New Jalpaiguri where a connection with a north-south broad gauge line is made, the area in which the railroad operated is in a restricted location and special permits have to be gained ahead of time from the Indian High Commission.

Incredible though it may seem, the steam locomotives used to handle traffic on this highway date back to 1899. A total of 34 0-4-OST engines were built up to 1927, including several from Baldwin, of which 29 remain in this class today. A broight blue paint scheme compliments the engines with many of them being named.

It is quite shocking to transfer from the spacious roominess of the broad gauge train early in the morning to the quaint tucked up wooden seats of the Darjeeling train. The rooftop of the coaches can provide an exciting ride, providing one doesn’t mind combing cinders out of the hair later.

Relatively flat jungle terrain is characteristic of the scenery as far as Siliguri where the diminutive train may split into several four-car sections for the uphill tortuous climb. A north-south meter gauge connection is made here, which parallels the broad gauge routs at New Jalpaiguri. After crossing the seven span bridge over the Mahanuddy River, grades begin to be felt with long stretches of 1 to 25, with some sections as steep as 1 in 20. This works out to be an average grade of 4.3 percent. The unique feature of this line is that unlike other mountain-climbing railways, there is no rack section. In order to gain height, the engineers made use of four horseshoe loops and five figure-eight reversing curves in addition to the several switchbacks. The train seems to lean from one curve into another, but no tunnels mar the view. Because of the severe grades, the maximum speed is 12 mph uphill and 9 mph downhill. The diminutive puffers might stop for water frequently, which allows for photography. One favorite trick of local children is to jump off the train at certain locations, run along side for awhile and then jump back on board.

Two men ride on the buffer plate to spread sand on the rails and check for slipping and objects on the track. In addition to a fireman and an engineer, a coal breaker, who sits on top of the coal bunker, has the unenviable job of breaking up the log-size chunks of coal with a hammer into smaller firebox-size pieces. As the little blue choo choo climbs higher, jungle covered mountains emerge with tea plantations scattered everywhere. One gets a close-up look at the numerous mountain towns as the train snakes through the narrow streets. The railroad’s shops are located at Tindharia at about the half-way point on the line. Above Tindharia the train quite often gets bathed in the cool mists of higher altitudes, which makes the smoke hang heavy over the consist. Traffic is mostly passenger oriented with freight carried on an irregular basis. The engines are very sure footed and rarely slip as they wind up and around the mountainsides.

Upon reaching Darjeeling, tea capital of the world, in mid to late afternoon, one may shoose to make further arrangements with guides to climb into the Himalayas. A less strenuous choice might be walking around the narrow streets sampling local color and shopping for bargains on oriental rugs, brass pots, and silks. Then one may curl up in a hotel room perched on a terraced plot of land high on the mountain hillside. There is no substitute for sipping rich, warm tea in front of a crackling fire dancing around in a stone fireplace. Hot water bottles are handed out to keep beds toasty warm as temperatures dip down below the freezing mark at times in this climate.

With a lot of wheel-slipping, a meter gauge YG 2-8-2 gets long freight under way.


[:I] One more part to go! [:I]

Just saw your encore posts Tom..... very nice inded!

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon!

. . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #4 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1949 advertisement in my private collection:

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

. . . . . . . . . . Give your family the . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . for Christmas . . . . . . . . . .

Go Santa Fe to Phoenix, Wickenburg, Palm Springs and Southern California

You’ve promised yourself to take the family on a winter vacation sometime.
This is the year! Why not make it your Christmas present to them?
The resorts and ranches in sunny Arizona and Southern California are
beckoning and Santa Fe’s famous fleet of fine trains to those “sun spots”
offers schedules and accommodations to suit you to a “T.”


Enjoy (again)!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #3 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . THE PULLMAN COMPANY . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1948 advertisement in my private collection:

. . . . . . . . . . Christmas Cargo . . . . . . . . .

They’ll be home for Christmas! There are miles of snow and mountains ahead. But this family will spend their night before Christmas snug and secure in their Pullman compartment. They bring gifts for her folks back home. But his greatest gift to that proud Grandfather and Grandmother will be the sight of their first grandchild.

He’ll be home for Christmas! He’s a hard working trouble-shooter for his company, and business almost kept him away for Christmas. But there’ll be no disappointments in this father’s house tomorrow morning. Traveling Pullman, he and his presents will arrive safe and sound right in the heart of town, just a stones’ throw from Christmas at home.

She’ll be home for Christmas! “Dear Mother and Dad,” she wrote. “I’ll be home for Christmas with a straight “A” for the quarter. Don’t you think that deserves going Pullman?” It does and it did. But more important, her mother and father will sleep as soundly tonight as she will, knowing she’s traveling the safest, most comfortable way to be home for Christmas.

. . . . . To be sure you’ll be home for Christmas . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Go Pullman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

THE SAFEST, MOST COMFORTABLE WAY TO GET THERE!


Enjoy (again)!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day!

For those following the VIA Rail situation, here's the latest Email received from them:

QUOTE: VIA reaches tentative deal with locomotive engineers - Possible strike averted


MONTREAL - VIA Rail Canada is pleased to announce that it has concluded a tentative agreement with the Teamster Canada Rail Conference, representing over 350 locomotive engineers at the national passenger rail service, thus avoiding the possibility of a strike that could have begun on December 24.

Further details of the agreement will be provided following a vote by the members of the union, expected to be held in the coming days.

VIA Rail Canada operates passenger rail services across the country on behalf of the Government of Canada. Serving more than 450 communities coast-to-coast, VIA's goal is to provide Canadians with a safe, efficient and environmentally responsible passenger service. For more details on VIA Rail Canada's products, services and fares contact VIA Rail Canada at 1-888-VIA-Rail (842-7245) or visit www.viarail.ca.

Benoit Laporte
Marketing
VIA Rail Canada

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

. . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #2 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1948 advertisement in my private collection:

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HOLIDAY HOMECOMING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

There’s nothing quite so pleasant as coming home again . . . Especially when it’s “home for Christmas” . . . and when you take the train!

This is the happy season when Pennsylvania Railroad’s great fleets of trains between East and West, North and South, assume a particularly festive air.

By Pullman, by coach, joyous families are going to visit the folks at home – carefree, or comfortable, relaxed as they speed on their way.

For your holiday travels Pennsylvania Railroad offers a wide choice of daily trains . . . . conveniently scheduled to fit your plans.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pennsylvania Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom. I'll take a bottomless cuppa Joe and some plain donuts from the bakery. Been catching up on the latest posts and see we are over 200 pages now. A great thing just keeps rolling along. Like the tree and the trainset installed here in the bar. Nice touch--but then again all of us regulars like just about anything on flanged wheels!
Tom, does Juneau chase the LGB train?
Normally, I write notes to myself about subjects mentioned at OUR PLACE but this morning I neglected to while reading the latest posts so some that stick out I will offer responses. ATSF preferred Funits for their long distance pass trains because all wheels on them are driven. Eunits have the center axle in each truck is an unpowered idler. This, along with governor settings and maybe a couple other reasons, makes them slippery and better for flatland running. Our Enits sometimes will not move until notch 3.
I have glanced at Roadrailers at it seems to me that the main difference in them and a regular road only trailer is a heavier, more complete frame and the normal air/coupler requirements.
Everyone have a Merry Christmas and be safe in whatever you do. Only drink and drive if you're drinking at OUR PLACE. To P and anyone else who works on the holiday, perhaps you can get home soon and enjoy your loved ones then.

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE! . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #1 of 8 . . . . . . . . . .

Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1937 advertisement in my private collection:

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

Enjoy the Christmas Holidays at SUN VALLEY

Opening of the New Challenger Inn

Combining economy with all the Winter Sports of Sun Valley. Modest rates for rooms – popular prices for meals – accommodations for 400 – all in a “mountain village.” Warm water swimming pool – motion picture theatre – two restaurants including unique night club – shops for all your needs.

Sun Valley Lodge

Living at its best! Continental service and comforts. A matchless cuisine. Rooms for single or double occupancy, and suites. Accommodations for 250 guests. American plan.

Nothing like it anywhere else – long, timber free ski runs, deep “powder” snow, brilliant summer sun – skiing stripped to the waist – sleighing in bright moonlight, skating, swimming in warm water open-air pools – the perfect Christmas holidays.

. . . . . . . . . . INTERCOLLEGIATE SKI MEET . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . Dartmouth College – University of Washington . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . SUN VALLEY, DECEMBER 29 to JANUARY 1 . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . ONLY UNION PACIFIC SERVES SUN VALLEY . . . . .

For information and Union Pacific representatives in principal cities or write or wire
. . . . . . . . . . K.M. SINGER . . . . . . . . . . W.S. BASINGER . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Gen’l Mgr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.T.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Sun Valley, . . . . . . . . . . . Union Pacific R.R. . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . Idaho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Omaha, Nebr. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . THE PROGRESSIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . UNION PACIFIC . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SERVES ALL THE WEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Enjoy (again)!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

A Happy Christmas Eve to one and All on this ENCORE! Saturday! [tup][tup][tup]

With a light drizzle, gloomy looking skies and temps rather unseasonably warm, it doesn't look the way it should, but if feels like it! [swg] The weather folks are predicting dropping temps into the night with some light snow into Christmas morn! [yeah] I hope it starts while we're in Church - nothing puts me in the "mood" better than departing from a service into the night with snow fallin' all 'round. [tup]

Okay - I see that only Manager Ted Posted since I checked out - and once again, Thanx for the attentiveness! Looks like those Forum Gremlins may have been at work, for the time of your Post was about an hour after mine, but appaerntly your sign in didn't detect it. Crazy way to run a Forum, eh [?] [swg] But we ARE all THANKFUL for what the Kalmbach folks have done for us all - providing this wonderful medium for our exchanges of thoughts, experiences and banter. [tup][tup][tup]

This upcoming week will be a bit different in that I plan on continuing with the NOSTALGIA Posts and hope those of you who contribute the "lengthy epistles" do the same. What's the point in Posting those well crafted pieces only to have them missed by so many [?]

Oh, before I forget - I noticed Mike's "edit" of his last Post. Some additional great URLS fer sure, fer sure! Mike perhaps you would do better not editing with such a gap in time - an easy way for us to miss your efforts! I only caught it while scrolling back looking for something in particular. A new Post would have had a better guarantee of being seen.

[wow] I feel like the Forum's school teacher this AM - not at all what I planned to do! <grin> HO HO HO!

Remember, boyz, we close up at 6 PM this fine day and resume our activities on Monday!

Enjoy the day!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

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

SATURDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

This is ENCORE! Saturday.

A “Christmas Eve way” to continue this countdown to Christmas is to spend a bit of time with us by ordering a <light> breakfast from the menu board – have a cup of freshly brewed coffee and try some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery! [tup]

Daily Wisdom:

A cow chip is paradise for a fly.


Info for the Day:

(1) CONTEST OVER!:
What date (time optional) will ”Our” Place reach the next plateau – page 200 [?] BONUS question: WHO will be the one to “turn the page” [?]

Participants . . . . . . Date chosen . . . . (Bonus) Who will put us over the top [?]
(in order of participation)
pwolfe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dec 20th . . . . . . . . . .siberianmo Tom
trolleyboy Rob . . . . . . . . . Dec 18th (12:05 PM) . siberianmo Tom
coalminer3 CM3 . . . . . . . .Dec 18th. . . . . . . . . . siberianmo Tom
WINNER! barndad Doug . . Dec 22nd . . . . . . . . . none
nickinwestwales Nick . . . .Dec 27th . . . . . . . . . .trolleyboy Rob
ftwNSengineer P . . . . . . . Dec 23rd . . . . . . . . . .trolleyboy Rob
jlampke John . . . . . . . . . Dec 24th (noon) . . . . . siberianmo Tom

(2) repeat Birthday Bash for CM3 set for Friday, January 6th!

(3) I suspect next week will be rather light insofar as patrons are concerned, so many of my Posts will be ENCORE! pieces. Enjoy! For barndad Doug – passengerfan Al and trolleyboy Rob recommend you go with ENCORE! pieces and “save” your newer work until January 2nd.

(4) We CLOSE at 6 PM today and remain CLOSED until 6 AM, Monday! The next Sunday Photo Posting Day! is January 8th. Next SUMMARY will be on Monday.


SUMMARY

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

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 01:07:52 (200) Friday’s Info & Summary

(2) passengerfan Al Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 07:58:12 (200) Streamliner #34 – AuRoRa

(3) jdonald Don Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 08:36:03 (200) F-units, etc.

(4) jdonald Don Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 08:39:47 (200) P.S.

(5) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 08:53:10 (200) etc.

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 09:02:14 (200) VIA Rail strike

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 11:20:27 (200) Acknowledgments, etc.

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 12:13:32 (201) NOSTALGIA #50 Ad – Southern (1949)

(9) wanswheel Mike Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 12:52:17 (201) Informative Post!

(10) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 13:12:44 (201) Inclusive Post, etc.

(11) pwolfe Pete Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 15:59:58 (201) Inclusive Post, etc.

(12) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 16:14:06 (201) Continuity Post

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 20:54:25 (201) Acknowledgments, etc.

(14) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Dec 2005, 21:41:06 (201) Nite Cap!

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

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



From siberianmo’s home: (click to enlarge)

[Anonymous]

Hello again Cindy, I keep pumping but I'm afraid this is definitely a "dry hole."[:O] It was nice of the few who showed up to share some good information with us. I suppose I could launch into a lengthy post on some element of our primary interests. Now, is probably not the time for that as most of our numbers are understandibly ensconced in Family, hearth and home. Pete, I bid you a safe trip to Columbia and return. It looks as though the weather is in your favo(u)r and that's a blessing. I imagine you are growing more enthusiastic by the day for the return to England. Naturally, all of us wish you and your wife a pleasant and meaningful Holiday.[tup] It would be neat if you could "knock up" our Cheif Chef Nick but I guess he is "out and about" as well. This weekend is, no doubt, best served with attending to the demands made by our customary traditions. Normally, I would have been performing throughout the holiday season. Since I retired, the holiday season is for visiting and celebrating "...good will toward Man..." which is preferable to catering to a bunch of Drunks in a smoke filled dance hall. However, I do miss the brass quartets and quintets that I participated in at holiday concerts. Like the "Classic Trains" we mourn for; classical music in the traditional holiday sense is another casualty.[V] Even the annual local Symphony concerts of Christmas Music are largely relegated to the "dust bin of history." There are just a whole lot of things in the States that have been tampered with and corrupted by the hand of man recently. Like a mechanical Grand Father Clock, when there is a tiny "glitch" in the mechanism, the pendulum swings wildly out of synch. That's the best analogy I can think of at the moment. I'm sure there are better mental images for this malady out there somewhere. Any rate, let's all have a restful convalescence from the usual stress and strain of the work a day grist mill. May all of your thoughts be pleasant ones and the memories you make during these Holidays be cherished always. I think I heard Leon's unmistakable thundering entrance, so I'll turn the bar over to him and Cindy for "last rights." So long for now.

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Guys!

I'm back - Cindy you are wonderful! Thanx so much for keeping this place operating in my absence! [tup]

The late afrternoon concert was, in a word LOUD! I can barely hear myself think! <geesh> For anyone who may not be familiar with the Trans Siberian Orchestra - they are a contemporary group of musicians who have made their mark as something akin to a combination of Mannheim Steamroller and the Electric Light Orchestra; definitely different and LOUD! [swg]

Nice Posts this afternoon and I thank Manager Ted for maintaining some continuity during the day.

Mike I appreciate those URLs, thanx for providing them! [tup] I've seen the newspaper artiicles before, but that site with the picture spread is a first. Still cannot get any pix of the train. Wonder what's up with that [?]

By the by, that Sackville station is really quite a building to see. I make a solo round trip to Saciville, New Brunswick to visit with a friend. usually once a year. I'm surprised that he didn't provide those pictures! I'll have to jump his case on that one! [swg]

Pete Thanx for stopping by this afternoon! Nope - never got the birthday info from you, but when it gets here - the "list" will be updated!

Ted No shopping for us - we're long finished with that aspect of Christmas. There is a favorite "watering hole" of mine downtown, across the street from Union Station, that we like to frequent on trips to the city. It's an Irish Pub knda place and serves some great food -called "Maggie O'Briens." Should we get a group of guys willing to come to St. Louis for a Rendezvous that's definitely a place we'll have to visit! Anyway, had lunch there today, then off to the concert. What's that [?] Sorry, can't HEAR you! [swg]

Mike 'n Ted longest passenger train consist I can recall was with ViA Rail on a cross-Canada round tirp - 22 cars. We had our bedroom in the Park Car observation dome and looking foward over all those cars was a real treat. Walking the length was good exercise as well! I believe we had 7 sleepers to walk through to get to the first dining car.

Pete The countdown to England begins in earnest, eh [?] Before you know it, you and your bride will be in "Merry Olde," where your mates will await the stories from America. Don't forget to tell 'em about "Our" Place - maybe we can get one or two of your friends to check in with us! ]tup]

Pete I see that Ted's talking about an Amtrak trip. Perhaps YOU should work on him ... I'd say a threesome would be fun! What say you [?]

Okay - I'm gonna turn this over to Leon the Night Man! Ring the bell, Boris - a round on me.

Nite! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hey, its getting kinda lonesome here at "Our" Place. Cindy, I'll have a Ham and Swiss on Pumpernikle w/deli mustard and a ice cold P.B.R., please. Well, I just dropped by to catch the latest posts. Love the old Southern Rwy. promo. ad. Guess Tom and his bride are catching the "Trans Siberian" Orchestra or maybe some shopping in town. Mike, I would hazaard a guess the Mr. Phelps is a classic example of "the absent minded Professor."[swg] I don't know how many sections the El Cap and Super Cheif were running. I've seen as many as 24 cars in one section and believe you me, when you detrain on one of the last cars, it is one hullava hike to the station. I usually hired a "Red Cap" to help with my luggage and gear. I never check bags through because of theft and probablility of it being lost. It happened to me once and, ironically, it was on the El Cap. They managed to get them back on the following day, believe it or not. Certainly enjoyed your links on the post, thanks.

There isn't a whole lot to expound upon just now, so Ill return a.s.a.p. for a reconoiter when there is more action.[^] Its heartening to know those beautiful Budd High Level Cars are still intact on the West Coast Daylight. They literally are like riding on a cloud. We had these same coaches on the Auto Train from Largo, VA to Sanford, FL back in 1973. The food was a disapointment ( "steam table" buffet style) but everything else was beyond my expectations. My wife and I had a lot of running around to do, seeing the In-Laws etc., so having my own "wheels" was great. I would hate to be stranded depending on my Father-in-Law for transportation.[:O] Little did I suspect I would be returning to FL for retirement some 14 years later. I will admit leaving MD at about +20 deg. F. and arriving in +78 deg. F., Florida weather did catch my attention. Most of you know that I had planned a Amtrak rail trip from Orlando to New Orleans, LA this past Fall. Well, guess what? Right, Katrina beat me to it. Just "shows-to-go-Ya" how the "fickle finger of fate" can can mess up the "best made plans of mice and men." I hope, in the future, to make plans for a rail sojourn "up North" to rekindle some memories with old Army friends who retired there. I believe I can make that trip from Tampa rather than Orlando. For years most train routes in the States were East to West. Now (in the East) there are more North to South runs. Okay, take care everybody and don't let the let the "spirits" of X-mas over ride your common sense. Already, I've seen the most "bone headed" examples of Kamikazi driving (?) this State has on offer. "Not a pretty sight!"[:O] See you and Boris later Cindy Try not to doze off before the Track Gang gets here with their various jousting sticks and stuff. Happy rails.