"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom et al. It is morning in jolly old England and the sun is beginning to illuminate the town. I will have a strong coffee and Dani***o get the morning started. As long as I have an email connection I can send and receive messages or work on the forums. All I have to do is to type in www.trains.com and I am in business just like at home or the office. Today we fly to Frankfort then get a final report on how the natives are acting. If ok we will go to Port Harcourt on Tuesday, otherwise we take the Lufthansa nonstop to Dallas on Tuesday. I will be able to access the net from Frankfort, but do not know about being able to do it from P H. If you do not hear from me after Frankfort it is because the lack of internet form P H.

Lets spin a train story. I have taken the Flying Scotsman fron Kings Cross station in London to Aberdeen several times. This is a six hour train ride. From London to Edinbourgh the train is what they call an intercity 125 since it goes 125 MPH. They do not have speedometers in the coaches, but when you time the mile posts to be 25 seconds apart the speed is 125. North of Edinbourgh the train only goes about 60 MPH due to the curving track. At Edinbourgh you cross a magnificant bridge over the Firth of Forth. The train looks lost on this massive bridge. Just south of Aberdeen the train goes through St. Andrews the site of the great golf course and club. Some day I plan to play it.

A small point of golf trivia. Do you know the meaning of the word GOLF? It stands for Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden. Quite well named. Too bad it did not hold to its roots.

Several years ago there was a program on PBS about a group traveling to Kyle of Lochnish on the western coast of Scotland. While there they bought the Kyle of Lochnish sign from the station. We have driven to Kyle of Lochnish and there is a small sign on the station, not the large one the group picked up. On one of my trips to Aberdeen by train I met a group of rail fans who were reenacting the trip that was on PBS. Sadly I had to inform them that the station sign was long gone.

Lets jump to the other side of the world-Thailand. In Tahiland, Malyasia, Singapore, and Cambodia the gauge is meter which is slightly wider than our narrow gauge. In some of the remote areas they still have steam engines. One day I had some time to kill so I took a train west from Bangkok to the end of the line at Katchanburi (sp?). There was an iron bridge over the river Klong Trip (again sp?). You probably remember this river as it was made famous in the movie "The Bridge at the River Kwai". The track ended a couple of miles past the bridge. Yes, it is steel today, not the wood version seen in the movie. At the bridge there was a crowd of European and oriental visitors walking around. Tourist I thought. The next day on my flight from Bangkok to Hong Kong I sat next to one of the "tourists" who was at the bridge the previous day. They were not tourists, but it was the 30th reunion of the liberation of the labor camp that built the bridge. Both the British prisoners and Japanese guards were present. My seat mate told me what happened in the camp. By comparison the movie made the camp appear like a tropical resort. Again tears were brought to my eyes as he told the stories of the camp.

The line was never completed to Rangoon and the section beyond Katchanburi has been reclaimed by the jungle. There are plans to build a second transcontinental railroad from Europe to Asia through Iran and Bangkok. They have stated that the section built by the Japanese (really the British under the direction of the Japanese) will NOT be the chosen route. No reason for this was given.

Time to go get breakfast.
Cheers,
***

[trolleyboy]

Good evening again gentlemen. First of I/m glad to see that *** is enjoying himself over'om and on the tab at that good stuff[tup][;)] Also Tom I'm hurt that you think I'm soooo predictable[;)] I'll just have to find some other classics[:D] These next couple are fallen flags photographed in Chi town area during my 1995 summer trip(s)[8D] Yes I went twice that year once on business once for fun. BTW I've enjoyed the other contributions today as well [tup][tup][:D].Rob

[siberianmo]

In keeping with the policy of "Our" Place, I want to acknoweldge ***'s "reports" from England. I had been under the impression that he wasn't able to read our thread and recent Posts - however, I just saw his response to the information on the TRE (another Forum). So, if you are "out there" - what's up [?].

Thanx, *** for the "report" - but you need to clarify for us how we're supposed to respond - if at all. [%-)][%-)][%-)]

Ted Also aprpeciate your stopping by this rainy day here in mid-continent USA. Nothing severe - just a slow, all day steady rain. We have the outer bands of Rita along with a cold front coming in from the northwest - finally getting more of the rainfall we sorely missed in July & August.

Glad you enjoyed the Pix on this Sunday Photo Posting Day. Only a few of us, nonetheless, the PIx are fine! [tup]

See ya!

Tom[4:-)][oX)][%-)]

[Anonymous]

Back again for some more trivia on the old country. Keep the free booze flowing even though it is Sunday. I will extend my free offer through Monday.

One of my favorite places to visit in London is Westminster Abby. I have a very distant relative, Dylan Thomas, buried in there. He was poet lauret of the United Kingdom. Do not remember when he died, but have seen his grave. (Not on this trip). One time while touring the Abby they were tuning the organ. I asked permission to visit the organ loft as I enjoy organ music. Permission was granted and I was soon in the loft. After about a half hour of tuning the organ master said he was done and asked if there was any particular piece I would like to hear. I was grinning from ear to ear. Quickly I requested Bach's Prelude and Fugue in D Minor, which is a great organ piece. You have not heard this piece until it is played in all of its majesty in Westminster Abby!

Another time I was in Philadelphia at the APTA convention and we had a reception in the Crystal Terrace on the top floor of Lord and Taylors. L&T formerly was Wannamakers Department Store. The store has an open atrium that rises 6 stories. In the atrium is an organ that John Wannamaker purchaced at the close of the St Louis Exposition around 1902. Organ recitrals are held daily at noon and 6 PM. We were going to the reception and upon hearing the organ I bid farewell to my group and said I would be there soon. Again I was given access to the organ loft on the second floor, however, this time there were no requests honored. This organ was built for $25,000 on a fixed bid and bankrupted the American Organ Company. Wannamaker bought the organ for his store and it took 10 box cars on the Pennsylvania to transport it to Philadelphia. Wannamaker set up an organ manufacturing room on the top floor, employed master organ makers from around the world to expand the organ which took three years. Pipes were built that ranged from 1/4 inche in diameter to 10 feet in diameter. We have one of the larger organs in the Morton Myerson Concert Hall in Dallas. This organ has 4,412 pipes and is a joy to hear. Wannamaker made his organ slightly larger with 14,438 pipes (yes 0ver 14,000). It is the biggest musical instrument in the world and is insured for $50 million. Most organs have 4 manuals. The Wannamaker organ has 10. Wannamaker would routinely move the show cases from the main floor, set up chairs, and hold recitals for civic and business leaders. All the renound organists in the world at that time have played the organ. Even presidents of the US have attended recitals there. I consider it an honor to have heard it play and be in the loft.

Now how does this fit in with classic trains? The Pennsylvania Railroad hauled the organ from St. Louis to Philadelphia.

More from the old country later.
Cheers,
***

[siberianmo]

What's not to like about these [?]







(all from the VIA Rail web site: www.viarail.ca}

Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Just popped in to make sure all is in readiness for tomorow. Couldn't leave before sending get well wishes to earlydiesels Dan. Hey Buddy, sounds like that coal and diesel oil soot in the air has taken its' toll. My Uncle in K.C., MO had bronchitis and nearly "took the count" while at Ft. Leonard Wood near Rolla, MO. The barracks were coal fired and led to a severe attack. Put your feet up 'til you can see a Doc and let us know, okay? Tom, no need for a reply. This is Sunday and I'm enjoying the fine pix from Rob, Nick and yourslef. Will check in again bright and early tomorrow, unitl then.

[siberianmo]

Hey earlydiesels Dan

Sounds like you've had a rough way to go. Take 'er easy so that you can fully recover.

Enjoy the conversations that have been Posted - lots 'n lots of interesting info along with some mighty fine photo's .... so sit back, and try to enjoy the day! [tup][tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone. I know OUR PLACE is closed on Sundays but due to my absence I will slip this in the slot. Was at the Midland last weekend where I got sick. Either a lung infection or bronchitis. Started new job on Monday and when I get home I just collapse. Been sleeping in the recliner because the lungs fill up when I'm horizontal. Last night was first night slept thru in the bed. Feeling better today. So far none of this has really affected my asthma(knock on wood).
Too much to comment on so I'll just say it's good to be back and will see everyone later.

[siberianmo]

SUNDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

The bar is CLOSED on SUNDAY’s however, you may drop off your Posts by putting them through the mail slots in either set of front doors.

This is PICTURE POSTING SUNDAY, our new feature at “Our” Place and something to look forward to on this day of rest.

News of the Day:

Other than to hope for the best regarding the victims of Katrina and Rita – no news today.

INDEX

Index pages for Fallen Flags , Heralds of the Fallen Flags and Passenger Train Nostalgia Posts: (click the URL to go directly to the page!)

106 – SP
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=106&TOPIC_ID=35270

108 – MoPac
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=108&TOPIC_ID=35270

109 – WP
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=109&TOPIC_ID=35270

110 – Frisco
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=110&TOPIC_ID=35270

112 - CNR (fallen only as a passenger carrier)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=112&TOPIC_ID=35270

112 – CNR Super Continental Time Table
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=112&TOPIC_ID=35270

112 – Heralds of the Fallen Flags
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=112&TOPIC_ID=35270

113 - Passenger Train Nostalgia #1 “Start ups” in the 1800’s and early 1900’s
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=113&TOPIC_ID=35270

114 – ACL
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=114&TOPIC_ID=35270

115 – SCL
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=115&TOPIC_ID=35270

116 - D&RGW
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=116&TOPIC_ID=35270

117 – Passenger Train Nostalgia #2 California Zephyr’s Budd Co. Vista-Dome sleeper observation-lounge
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=117&TOPIC_ID=35270

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 01:00:27 (117) Saturday’s News & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 09:34:46 (117) Passenger Train Nostalgia #2

(3) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 10:32:48 (117)

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 11:22:36 (117) reply to trolleyboy

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 11:58:23 (117) Birthday Watch List

(6) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 13:30:58 (117)

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 13:56:41 (117) reply to Theodorebear

(8) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 18:38:48 (117)

(9) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 20:32:36 (117)

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Sep 2005, 22:22:44 (117) reply to Theodorebear & nickinwestwales

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

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

[siberianmo]

Just noted another Post from *** [C):-)] .... While I know he'll never see these words, we're happy he's thinking about us!

Always enjoy his trip reports - even if he's "transmitting in the blind."

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

My contributions to Sunday Photo Posting Day!

Farewell, Nova Scotia! May 11th, 2005


Canada Day 2005 (July 1st) at "Our Place


U.S. Independence Day (4th of July) 2005 at "Our" Place


TRE's RDC's at Irving, Texas facility, Aug 16th, 2005


Tom & David (Engineer) in cab of TRE RDC for round trip to Dallas, Aug 16th, 2005


More later on .... Enjoy!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good morning Y'all.
Another post from the old country. I will have internet access until about noon tomorrow or 6 AM central standard time so you can all pick on me for a while. I noticed that you really have been running up the bar tab. Certainly am glad that I am on the swindle sheet, correction: Expense account.

Have done a little training here. We took the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station, the First Great Western from Paddington to Reading, and the Heathrow Express from Paddington to Heathrow airport. Had to go to Heathrow yesterday to have Lufthansa revalidate our tickets since our plans changed. Their intown ticket office is closed on weekends. Fortunately my rail pass from First Great Western was accepted for all train rides. My poor companion had to fork out 78 pounds ($144) while I rode free. I guess my travel savings can be applied to the bar bill you are running up.

Nick, I enjoyed your pictures of the UK trains and the ON trains. I have seen them all in person except the steam locomotive and the narrow gauge yard. Great pics. Keep them coming.

Over the years I have seen almost every touristy and a few non touristy places in London and its environs. I counted up and this is 108th entry into the United Kingdon. I know my way around downtown London better than downtown Dallas. Of course there is much more to do in London than in Dallas.

Being a naturalized Texan one of my favorite places is off Pall Mall. Next to the Bally Brothers and Rudd liquor store is a small passageway where the Texas embassy was. This is not the Tex-Mex restraunt by that name near Trafalger square that is run by Gene Street from Dallas. This is the original Texas embassy. In the entrance to the passageway is a plaque that reads: "In this building the Republic of Texas had its embassy to the Court of St. James, 1842-1845. Erected by the Anglo-Texas Society". Just reading this plaque brings a tear to my eye. I took a photo of the plaque which I will post when i get the film developed. The liquor store, Bally Brothers and Ruud, has been there since the 1700s. There must be at least 100 coats of paint on the doors and window sills with the prior coat never being scraped off. Inside the wait staff are dressed in tails, vests, spats, and stove pipe hats. They work from stand up desks that were popular 100 years ago. I have bought some "snake bite medicine" here on occasion. Also took a picture of it which I will post. Next to BB&R is a hat store that has a royapl warrant for selling hats to the Royals since the 1600s. Down the street is the St. James palace with a Beefeater guard in red dress marching guard duty. When they do march it looks like a mechanical tin solder. They will not make any eye contact with you or answer any questions whilst (good English word) on duty. Running parallel to Pall Mall is Jermyn Street, where every upscale mens store you can think of is located such as Thomas Pink, Dunhills, Harvey Hudson, Turnville and Asser, plus many more. You really can unload some serious money here in a hurry. I looked into buying a sport jacket for about 150 pounds, but fortunately they did not have my size.

Went to Witherspoons, a 5 story book store and bought some reading literature for the trip to Nigeria including the book "The Bus We Loved" which is about the double decker bus with the rear entry. They are being phased out save a few they are keeping in the high tourist areas. They are expensive to operate as they require a driver and conductor to collect the fares. The new buses are like ours where the driver also collects the fare. Guess nothing is sacred. They pulled out the red phone booths a few years ago and sold them to a lady for 10 pounds each. She painted them up and was selling them for 1,500 pounds. Briti***elecom even bought several from her to put in the tourist areas.

What does all of this have to do with trains? Nothing, but it is an interesting respit. As to why I am using a throw away film camera instead of my digital one. I do not want my good camera stolen or confiscated in Nigeria. A five dollar throw away is no great loss, but a $400 digital is a big loss.

More later,
***

[siberianmo]

G'day All!


Here are some pix from NICK for the SUNDAY PHOTO POSTING .....

You can view his ablum at: http://photobucket.com/albums/b222/siberianmo/Nicks%20pix/












Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Gang!

Yes - it IS Sunday Photo Posting Day! -and- of course, the bar 'n grill is CLOSED on Sundays!

FIRST ORDER of BUSINESS: wrwatkins *** sent us a Post from England. However, he cannot read what we're sending back .... kinda like "transmitting in the blind," as we used to say in the military - so it's rather pointless to make pointed responses! Nice of *** to think of us .... but unless and until it can be a two-way conversation - we'll just read 'n enjoy! [swg]

SECOND: For: daveklepper I welcomed you some time ago to "Our" Place - with no reciprocity. You are still welcome - however - keep in mind that we are an interactive - no hit 'n miss Posts; we acknowledge one another. We have only one agenda here and that is to have fun while discussing Classic Trains.

There's a wealth of information on these pages regarding how we function - check 'em out!

THIRD: Thanx for the pix - Rob - Somehow I just knew you'd not only be our FIRST for the Sunday Photo Posting but your pix would center on trolleys! [swg] ....

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Well i typed out another wordy reply and a second before I hit the submit key my time ran out and I lost it all. After lunch and after I cool off I will retype it.

Cheers,
***

[Anonymous]

Greetings Y'all from jolly old England. Since I am on expense account lets have an open bar all day on me. Boris and Tom, only the best of liquids. Break out the Roschields wine and Dom Perriom champane for all.

As you know I was scheduled to go to Port Harcourt Nigeria (UGH!) on Friday. Fortunately the natives got a little restless after a local political rabble rouser was arrested in P H and they went on a rampage occupying the oil companie's facilities. Needless to say our trip was put on hold. At my age I have lost the ability to outrun a speeding bullet so I have no problem sitting it out in London. Being in London is tough duty, but someone has to do it. I VOLUNTEER! We are scheduled to fly to P H on Tuesday if the festivitries settle down. Lets pray that they don't get it straightened out as I much rather stay in London especially when on expense account. Prices are the same here as in Dallas. A vente Starbucks coffee is the same price, however, in Dallas it is dollars and in London it is pounts. Figure the actual cost at an exchange rate of 1.85 dollars to a pound. The only way you can stay here is to be on expense account.

We arrived here (Cookie and me) Friday a week ago. As usual I went to get money from an ATM as their exchange rates are far better than the money robbers in the street kiosks. Put my card in and the machine and it said they were counting out my money. The next thing I saw was a welcome to the next customer. No money or ATM card for me. At 9 AM Dallas time I called my bank who said the charge came through, they approved it, then they got a cancell notice from this side. Fortunately I had about $200 in cash which I converted as a very bad rate ($2.05/pound) This kept me alive until the office could courier a new ATM card to me which arrived on Monday. It did work. I did not go back to a National Westminister machine based on my recent experience. I am on first name basis with the senior customer representative with Nat West, but they could not get my card back to me. A hex on them.

I apologize for not reading all of the submittals since my last visit to the bar. Internet connections cost 20 pounds per day ($38) so I am prudent on its use. I liked Passengerfan's description of his trips from Seattle to Vancouver which brought back fond memories. Several years ago, while still on the DART board we attnded the APTA convention in Seattle. One of the fun things was taking a string of Sounder bilevel cars from King Street station to Vancouver. Quite a scenic trip. When along the Puget Sound the tracks were so close to the water that you had to squash your face against the glass just to see any dirt. Otherwise it was all water. Saw some beautiful houses just across the tracks from the sound. I think i could put up with the train noise for the view. The customs agents boarded at Blaine and cleared everyone before reaching Vancouver station. Amtrak also runs the same route. They are using the Spanis Talgo cars which can take the curves faster than the bilevel Sounder equipment. Once we had to pull into a siding to let the faster Amtrak train pass. Our contractor for Trinity Railway Express, Hersog, took a select group to the Fairmont (formerly Canadian Pacific) Hotel next to the station for a lunch. Since it was raining like mad a lunch at the hotel seemed better than a shopping excursion. The woman sitting next to me was from Florida's Tri Rail board. Cookie asked me if I recognized her, which I did not. It turns out that she was the election judge who said "she would go to jail before...". You get to meet all types of people. Herzog chartered a bus to take us back to Seattle. At first I did not like this as I would miss the train ride. Unfortunately BN decided to have a minor wreck on the line and the train did not get back until 4 AM the next day. The bus, which got back at 6 PM turned out to be a good choice.

More a little later.

Cheers,
***

[daveklepper]

YOu have a terrific thread going here and I hope to visit often.

[trolleyboy]

Hi again just forgot to mention. Click on the photo's to blow them up for better detail. Let me know what you think of "George" RT-7's permanent crew member. RT-7 is fully functional as well. The only car of the three that isn't operational at the moment is # 55. A derailment twelve years ago samshed its underbody resistor grids. The replacements have to be manufactured in house. Of note car #55 is one of the two cars that started the museum in 1954. Two shots for Al as well and those who are passenger train fans. These are shots of the museum's overnight accomadations for out of town crew members.

[trolleyboy]

Good evening morning everyone. Tom I inderstood that you were more of the passenger train guy and that's grrreaaat [tup] I passed along the sylvan site just as an FYI for everyone. Always good to have a few good p[rototypically correct pieces. Though not so much that you become known as the nit picking rivet counter that most mrr'rs dislike. I suppose whatever floats everyones boat,BTW I think Boris's new bell may have done some structural damage in the rats patoot room or was that just you trying to escape big ben[?] ted To answer your question which Tom has already more than adequatly done. I haven't a preferance, pursee but Tom is correct photobucket is a tad more user friendly and they also don't mind you uploading whatever you want so long as it's not pornagraphic. Railimages is well for railimages. They do let you upload the occational off topic shot but they discourage alot of the aforementioned. Since it is Sunday at least here I'll be the first to add some pictures. I call this a tale of three sisters. Our museum was fortunate enough to have preserved 3 cars of the same class. All built for TTC predessesor Toronto Civic railways. All theses cars were built by Preston car and coach for the lighter Danforth ave and Gerrard street routes. There were no loops on either of these lines so the cars are double ended single truckers. 36" long so they are about as long as you would want for a single truck car. Cars 50 to 56 were all built in 1915 and a one off repeat order # 57 was built in 1917. All of these cars were handbrake cars so when TTC was formed in 1921 they were used for rush hour service only. All were converted to snow scrapers during the 20's. Two cars 53 and 57 were single ended. Converted to single pole one controller and guven air brakes. Thus renumbered W-27 and W-28. They became rail grinding cars. W-27 was further modified by lowereing it's truck and adding third rail pickups and thus became subway grinder RT-7 replacing a non self propelled sister RT-4 ( 52 ) Today 55 is at the museum converted back to full passenger format and original TCR green. we also have W-28 left it as a grinder and we have RT-7 which we use for halloween service only pictures to follow. BTW check out the driver in the seat of RT-7.

[siberianmo]

And a good evenin' to y'all!

Nice bit of travelogue, Ted - informative and something different to enjoy this Saturday night! [tup] I conur wholeheartedly regarding having the need to remain in a country and/or city for longer than a bit of time in order to form a definitive opinion. Trouble is that whenever I've had the opporunities to travel, it was mostly in connection with duty and the time really wasn't my own. In retirement, the agenda changes completely - different stage of life - changed priorities, etc. Just the way it works out, I guess.

Oh noooooooooo, don't tell Boris to ring that .... Boooooooooooooong Gwoooooooooooooong! Thanx for the round ..... I think.

By the by, your Email came through and I thank you for your continued support! [tup]

Nick Your Email was received and I appreciate your comments! Pix #2 needs to be retransmitted. The others will do fine for the Sunday Picture Posting! [tup]. Caroll sends her regards ........ [swg]

It's been rather quiet this Saturday, but the Posts have been quality from quality folks! Thanx to all ........ [tup\]

We've been playing the Eagles over 'n over these past couple of weeks - CD's and DVD's. It happens that way, get on a roll with a group and stick with it for awhile. I really enjoy the Farewell 1 Tour DVD, even though the Hell Freezes Over! tour was such a hit. Perhaps only because they reunited .... Oh how I only wish I had the talent to match my appreciation for the music! Maybe in the next go 'round ....... [swg]

As always, thanx for coming in for kitchen duty! Wouldn't have anything to do with Cindy stoppin' by after her Lingerie Show, would it [?] [}:)][:-,]

I'm going to cut out a bit early this Saturday night and turn the bar over to Leon the Night Man.

Enjoy Sunday Picture Posting Day!

Nite! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

HI [4:-)]TOM and gentlemen all,Happy Saturday--the kitchen is now open for full meal service,we have a back-2-back showing of Hell freezes over and the Hotel California tour on the big screen in the lounge and the weekly all-comers $5 a cue game in the pool room,the bar is reserved for informed discourse & debate-as always.......right-[4:-)]TOM-E-Mail recvd.& responded-with pix-hope useable...MANAGER TED..I fear you have taken a poor impression of your Mother country away with you--The Irish have the best Dead-Pan natural delivery in the world,and a propensity for swearing-a combination that can make it difficult to tell where you stand until you get used to it ---I would recommend the movie "The Commitment`s"-based on the novel by Roddy Doyle,as a musician you should enjoy it on several levels...[swg]...by the by-just send recipe requests by E-M-will return as soon as poss.--Well,just about ready for visit of in-laws house polished,child polished,all train tracks polished-apparently Himself is bringing all his trains,so have declared `open rails` international gala weekend under terms of rule #1 ( I.M.T.S )-will post pix next sunday-apologies to all I`ve missed Hey -before I forget, WOLFMAN PETE-I GOT THE SHAY...!!!!!!!..will E-M doc.later all,take care out there nick[C=:-)]

[Anonymous]

Thought I would check-in again since my first post today was tardy. Tom, just a pint of Guiness' Dark in a chilled mug if you will.[^] MAN, I surely enjoyed more than my share of this wonderful quaff while being a Tourist in that enigmatic Land. Thought I would reminisce just a "tad" on some of the features that caught my fancy. First of all, two weeks isn't enough to do any country (or some cities) justice and there is nothing worse than making "hasty generalizations" on scanty evidence. So, any of my personal observations are just that: "personal observations."

This may be something that wouldn't impress anyone else but I wasn't quite ready for the frenzied pace of street pedestrians and privately owned vehicles in the Dublin area. I worked in and around New York City for several summer seasons and am not easily amazed with the "fleet of foot." However, when I'm winded by trying to keep pace with an elderly lady with a shopping cart, I'm dumfounded.[:O] Now, most of us (not all) when boarding a subway or commuter train would hold fast for exiting passengers, then scurry on board. Not so Dublin! You forge ahead elbowing your way into the carriage (car), the more severe the well placed "jabs" the sooner you are seated. Only once did I find it necessary to hang from a strap, so why the panic? I noticed that "pub grub" isn't all it is touted to be from Frommers, Rick Steeves and others. Some of the "bill of fare" in cafeteria style (steam tables) venues in train stations (e.g. Connoly and Houston) was down right abominable. However, most hotels and, of course, B. & B.'s include a breakfast "to kill for."[^] Usually, that would suffice 'til 2:00 p.m. or so but then comes the daunting quest for a mid-day meal that is relatively boneless and at least tepid. Failing that, I often did a "liquid lunch" that never dissapoints. Small wonder the Irish have a cosmos-wide reputation for over indulgence.[:O] Evening meals? I learned to patronize foreign restaurants, i.e. Chinese, Italian, et al. "Going native" may be noble but not always the wisest choice.

The omni buses, both city and highway, have an unusually long overhang behind the rear wheels which should be respected by pedestrians when the bus hurls into a tight radius turn.[xx(]. Reminded me of the long Peter Witts in downtown Kcity, MO, "heads up!"[#oops] I noticed the Cop on the beat, is the "choice of last resort" for most of the Locals. While in Cork, I greeted an Officer with "top of the Mornin" and met with an Ogre's stare that could stop traffic on a L.A. Freeway![V] The last peculiarity I will mention is really "off-the-wall." Its something so trivial that its barely worth the mention, except it caught me like a "sucker punch" to the groin. At the corner Deli/Convenience Store near my Hotel, I was a regular Customer for sundry items and a sandwich "to go." I always had to request a bag for these purchases as it was never offered. The last evening in Dublin brought the wrath of the clerk upon me with some inane slangy quip like: "Wahter yer doin' wid 'em, sellin' dem? St. Patrick, forgive me, but I let fly: "Stiken 'em up me ars Mick, now put it in da bag![:(!] I had enjoyed all the Irish hospitatlity any Yank could stand.[tdn] Okay Boris, I finally let loose with reckless carefree abandon so hit the [#offtopic] bell 'til the "cows come home." Oh Tom, thanks for the Photo Bucket tip. Happy rails all.

[siberianmo]

Awwwwwright, Manager Ted has arrived! [yeah]

Hey! Saturday's are for things just like what you have experienced. No sweat - I'm listening to the Eagles right now - their "Hell Freezes Over" album, now playing "Get Over it!" Love the lyrics .... should play it to the "lefties" protesting in DC.

Thought you'd like that TRE info. Hope *** gets a chance to view it once he returns from the other side of "the Pond."

While you didn't direct the question to ME - I'll make a comment regarding RailImages and Photo Bucket. The latter is much more user friendly and I particularly like the feature of being able to create sub-albums. RailImages has better editing features and a few other more "advanced" applications. But for the "down 'n dirty" - I'd recommend PhotoBucket. I think we can thanx Trainnut484 Russell for letting us know about them ...... That's my [2c] worth! [swg]

Thanx for the kind words regarding the Fallen Flags. I'm extremely pleased with the reception given by the "nucleus" who make this idea of "Our" Place thrive. [tup]

Oh the bell - what's taking Boris so long to change out clappers. Boooooooooong Gwoooooooooooooong! There it goes again! Argggggggggh ...

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Sorry I'm late! There were a couple of local disastrophys to cover this a.m. First order of fun is congratulations to Dave and Pete for their respective "Order of the Stools Awards." Gentlemen, may we hoist our Steins in their hono(u)r for their cerebral, consistent and compelling contributions, hear, hear![tup] Since it took nearly 2 hours to reach this point , I will try to be brief. Tom, a round for all here assembled, if you please.

Thanks for the TRE information, it is encouraging to hear that some politicians have their "heads out where the Sun does shine.[(-D] Nick, I may take your generous offer of a few recipes seriously. BTW, my "take" on the previous "Post in question" was the same as yours. Know what? I'm not woried about it.[:-^] Rob those are fine additions to an already awesome Web album.[tup] BTW, do you have a preference between Rail Images and Photo Bucket? Passengerfan Al, astute and thorough commentary as we have come to expect, many thanks. CM3, we certainly appreciate having exclusive access to these great postings.[bow] However, your intimate and engaging prose deserves a much wider readership. Shouldn't you be pursuing an increased range for appreciation of your creative writing?[:D] Really, its just plain good

I won't try to cover all the territory thus far posted 'til now. It would require a Tome of pages. I'll make smaller posts on each as they appeared "rear to front," if you will. "Fallen Flags" is, by far, the most popular and provocative idea at "Our" Place thus far. The "Flags" have touched each of us and encouraged some of the finest replys to be found on any of the Forums. Way to go, Captain![swg]

I know most of us realize just what an Oasis in the desert "Our" Place has become to good folks who have endured witless, tasteless and even hateful threads elsewhere.[xx(] I know we will each do what we can to keep a "good thing going."[tup] "Slings and arrows?"..."Sticks and stones!"[tdn] Okay Boris since the clapper isn't up and running yet; hit the bell with those thongs in the Piclke Barrel. DINK Where is the old clapper? In the pickle barrel? [:(!]

[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. Sep 16th):

February 2nd (Kevin – 49)
March 5th (Nick – 45)
April 18 (Al - 63)
May 18th (Tom - 67)
May 27th (Dave - 46)
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!

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

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


NOTE for all: Check the SUMMARIES

[siberianmo]

Hiya Rob

Irish Coffee it is! Name the poison and it's yours ...... [swg]

Boris is out back trying to restore the old clapper to the bar bell. Man oh man, that gold plated "special" turned the bell into something that surely belongs in a bellfry rather than at a bar 'n grill. Booooooooong Gwooooooooong! There it goes again - Boris just loves it! [V]

Was beginnin' to wonder if anyone would stop by this AM ..... feast or famine, eh [?]

Appreciate the tips on detailed freight rolling stock, HOWEVER, my purchasing days are really at an end - UNLESS there's something out there that is (1) affordable and (2) in VIA Rail livery that I just couldn't resist! Freight on the Can-Am RR is simply for background and realism. The main thrust is passenger rail and I've got loads of that! Again - thanx!

Of course, that doesn't "kill" the deal we made for the swap in May for that CN Zebra we talked about. It's destined for the display case though ....

Nope, the Post on the Budd observation dome hasn't been featured (by me) .... Hope you enjoyed it. This particular "series" is called Passenger Train Nostalgia. The first one I Posted (last week) didn't receive so much as a mention. Go figure!

Don't sweat the Email - I know you've got other things going on - and you SHOULD. After all, this stuff is nothing more than a diversion - hopefully NEVER a full-time endeavor. <Good Grief>!

Thanx for the visit and hope the weekend winds up more joyous for your family than it began.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good saturdat morning everyone. Tom Are you able to make irish coffee with the sandwich menu ? If so I'd love one with the mystery meat sandwich from thegreat hunting expeditions.[;)][xx(] Nick I know that we are trying to be health conscoius but sheesh a bit too much " iron " in the curry and meat cuttlets[}:)][:D][;)] Perhaps you should allow the "hunters" to hunt with machettee's and spears from now on. More sporting for the critters that way[:0][xx(] BTW You were correct. During the early 60's 1961-63 L&PS did use the passenger cars as mail and coal car pulling power. The freight motors and locomotives were retired first. When our car #8 was retired in 1962 it had been used to pull frieght trains for a good two and a half years. Originally #8 was going to the Ontario science centre to be stuffed and mounted as a tribute to the Hydro electric railways of ontario. Ontario hydro operated twenty or so lines. The plans for this pavillion fell through and we picked up the car in 1973 and embarked on a 15 year restoration. #8 is now the queen of our fleet[^][tup][yeah][:D] Tom and Nick If you folks are interested in proto accurate ONR / TH&B / CPR /CNR type freight cars Sylvain hobbies makes an impressive line of kits have a look they are well worth the money and effort.[tup][^] http://www.isp.on.ca/sylvan/product.html Heater and I know Claire who runs the company he's really good people. Oh Tom he is also a retired engeneer from upper lakes shipping on of the big three Canadain Lake boat fleets, so he makes some nice HO and N scale water line ship and tug boat models as well. Al Thanks for the remenices on the GN trains to Van. I always wondered, did the trackage that GN ran on, did they own it or was it a trackage rights situation ? I understood for instance that the Soo line trains into Winnipeg were joint ops with CP. Just wondering if the GN /CN trains were similar. Well gents have a good rest of your day. Hopefully I'll pop back later. Oh Tom Your emails were recieved they just got lost in a bach log of well wishes from the family i'll be responding shortly. BFN Rob PS Tom I see you snuck another post in there. Good info on the budd cars. I seem to remember you posting it once before likely over on the passenger train thread before it went south[tdn][V][xx(] I haven't been able to check out your last url from a page back yet. I do intend to I just have a fair bit on the plate still this weekend. Visitation tomorrow funeral Monday ( don't get me started on those changes in plans ) anyhow I'll pop back later. Rob

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Guys!

Here's a little somethin' to perk up your Saturday!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #2

Here’s a little something taken from the literature associated with the California-Zephyr and its Vista-Dome sleeper observation-lounge:

Rest and Relaxation in the ”Vista-Dome” Lounge-Observation Car

The spacious and luxurious lounge-observation car at the rear of the train and immediately behind the sleeping cars, furnishes congenial lounging facilities on three different levels for as many as fifty passengers.

Modern ingenious designing and expert fabrication combine to make a composite unit of four distinctly separate accommodations in this exquisite car.

The ‘main floor” lounge is located within the gracefully rounded end of the observation car. Here, deeply-cushioned occasionally chairs and settees, in shades of sandalwood and brown in a setting of rose-tan and petal beige, invite complete relaxation.

Carpeted and individually-lighted steps from the lounge lead to the distinctive air-conditioned “Vista-Dome – tastefully decorated in tones of sandalwood. Here, enclosed in shatter-proof, glare-resistant glass, are twenty-four deep-cushioned seats, where passengers may ride in comfort and enjoy a complete view in every direction.

Nestled beneath the Dome is a buffet. Tastefully decorated in rose and gray-green, it provides a delightful rendezvous in which to speed the miles and minutes. At one end of the buffet is a refreshment counter with carved linoleum base and back bar of stainless steel and etched mirrors. Electric refrigeration units assure an ample supply of cool, refreshing beverages at all times. The buffet has a telephone connection with the dining car, over which table reservations can be made.

Forward from the buffet are three bedrooms and a drawing room, each having enclosed toilet facilities. Each room is attractively decorated in harmonious shades of rose-tan, petal beige, taupe and ashes of roses.

This car is completely carpeted and windows are equipped with Venetian blinds – those in the observation-lounge having drapes of gold and white.

From the “American Passenger Train”

Of note: The design of these Budd manufactured cars carries over to day with the VIA Rail Canada fleet of Park Car observation domes. With slight modifications, the literature quoted above could be closely associated with the cars still in use in Canada.

Enjoy!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

SATURDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Saturday is here – the day to catch up on things around the home, in the yard, with the automobile, and if you are so blessed – with the family. [tup] Pull up a stool and have a cuppa Joe while we check through the happenings.

News of the Day:

(1) A hearty Congratulations to West Coast S Dave for elevation to member of the Order of the Permanent Stools and to pwolfe Pete for induction into the Order of the Stools as a Reserved Stool member. [yeah][wow][tup]

(2) Index pages for Fallen Flags Posts:

106 - SP
108 - MoPac
109 - WP
110 - Frisco
112 - CNR (fallen only as a passenger carrier)
114 - ACL
115 - SCL
116 - D&RGW

Additionally: Heralds of the Fallen Flags are on page 112 and Passenger Train Nostalgia #1 on page 113.

(3) Sunday we are CLOSED, however it is Sunday Picture Posting Day [tup]

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 00:04:46 (116) Friday’s News & Summary

(2) BudKarr BK Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 01:24:26 (116)

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 07:09:36 (116) Fallen Flag – D&RGW

(4) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 07:23:44 (116)

(5) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 08:26:27 (116)

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 09:36:17 (116) reply to Theodorebear & coalminer3

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 12:02:36 (116) Selection Committee results

(8) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 12:22:23 (116)

(9) West Coast S Dave Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 13:34:11 (116)

(10) pwolfe Pete Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 13:39:42 (116)

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 15:28:16 (116) reply to trolleyboy – West Coast S – pwolfe

(12) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 15:41:47 (116) Classic Juice

(13) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 15:49:49 (116)

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 17:03:59 (116) reply to trolleyboy

(15) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 17:59:36 (116)

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 18:20:37 (116) reply to nickinwestwales

(17) Trainnut484 Russell Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 18:48:15 (116) Pix

(18) West Coast S Dave Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 19:25:08 (116)

(19) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 19:36:56 (117)

(20) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 20:00:01 (117)

(21) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 20:55:47 (117) reply to [b[Trainnut484 – West Coast S – nickinwestwales

(22) passengerfan Al Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 21:21:26 (117) The GN Internationals

(23) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Sep 2005, 21:52:22 (117) reply to passengerfan

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

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

[siberianmo]

Hi Al

Just lost a Post ...... argggggggggh! Okay - one more time.

Thanx for the round - Boris wait 'til I leave the bar, then ring the Gong! Goooooooooong, Bwooooooooooong! <Can't hear a thing!>

A couple of years ago while in Vancouver, BC we entertained thoughts of taking the Amtrak Talgo south to Seattle. When checking out the schedule, we changed our minds in that the arrival time would have us arriving around 10 PM. That kind of time just isn't conducive to spending big bucks for a downtown hotel room.

Passenger railroad schedules past and present - someone always feel slighted along the route insofar as arrivals and departures are concerned. I will never understand the rationale though with less than friendly times for the beginning and ending of a run.

Your accounting of the GN Internationals is appreciated and as always, well done! Thanx ... [tup][tup]

I concur with your Dad and his thoughts regarding if one must travel - go first class. My only caveat to that would be, if one must travel for FUN, then it's most definitely first class.

Have you had an opportunity to check out the URL I posted in my morning Post on page 116 [?] Concerns the TRE and is worth the read. Thought for sure you'd catch it ....

Well, it's time for me to check out .... .Leon the Night Man has arrived! [yeah]

Nite! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]