"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

Hiya Ted

Still hangin' in here ..... was kinda hoping The Birthday Boy would get here a bit ealier than scheduled ....... [swg]

Hey, the position of Adolescent Control Officer is still availalble! Actually sounds a bit like something a Manager should be in charge of! [;)]

Well, I'll be 'round ........ but when the festivities begin, let er rip! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hi everybody, just checking in to see how the preparations are going for the festivities. Tom, that Ruppert's was a little dry. Let me try a Michelob this time, if you please.[tup] Hey the place is looking good.[:D] Uh, Cindy may be looking too good.[swg]

So far no "calls ups" and I'm counting on being here to the glorious end.[^] My thoughts on visiting the "For Teens Only" Site now seems somehow inappropriate.[:-^] pwolfe, glad you got a kick out of the "Ugly Duckling"... funny what? I'm looking for pix of the Southern Rwy. Class Q. From your description, it must indeed be a "ringer." I would like to make my choice for the Genearl Motors "Turbo Train." Not only does the diesel look like a sideways Edsel, the coaches are really trans-continental busses in disguise.[:O] Rob's selection of bazaar livery "took the words out of my mouth," although I must admit the GG-1 in AmTrak paint surely is taking bad taste to a new dimension. What could we expect, right?[:(]

We are certainly looking foward to a gala event for Rob's 34th. Please come if you are able, as always, the more the merrier. Nick, don't be too strict on yourself. But for your superb cuisine, some of us would never sober up.[zzz] Hope I wasn't being too presumptuous by making moves toward today's Awards. I figure "credit where credit is due." And ultimately, where is the harm? Right Boris, listen to Nick's directives and if he says "go help Tom," he means it.[:)] Okay, I'm good 'til Midnight whereupon I turn into a AmTrak ticket agent. See ya soon.

[siberianmo]

Hi (again) Nickl and guys at the bar!

My plans for this evening are to let the Birthday Bash take care of itself .... no way can I keep up with each 'n every Post and maintain any semblance of sanity in my household! [swg]

So, here's some advice before things get going:

USE THE REFRESH BUTTON FROM TIME TO TIME IN ORDER TO CHECK OUT THE MOST RECENT POSTS and TO SEE WHO ELSE IS ONLINE.

Also: Stick around for a few minutes after your Post just to check out if a response has been made.

Catch ya later and enjoy the night's festivities! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[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. Aug 21st):

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) NEXT UP! TONIGHT at 10 PM (Eastern)

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

[nickinwestwales]

Hi guys,all ready to boogie the night away-A quick note of caution DOUG -I would strongly advise against any morning after pick-me-up prepared by Boris-I did once and spent 3 days awake and 4 in the local lock-up before [4:-)]TOM got the charges dropped.......WOLFMAN-I`m sure I`ve got a couple of B/W shots of Q1`s in books-will find the largest and clearest,Right,lets get to business here...[4:-)]Tom & Awk-A round of the house`s finest for these fine gentlemen,A large measure of the special reserve for each to accompany it ,the same for yourself and an unlimited supply of whatever the BIRTHDAY BOY favours. Gentlemen..to ROB ...!!! [bday][bday][bday]-for sharing knowledge,`playing the game`here but mostly for keeping history alive and accessible up at the line,we salute you..Well,since through the good offices of our host I am now Photo-friendly I thought I would dig out the albums and blow off the cobwebs-as a result I am delighted to be able to offer serious scholars of British practice coverage of the following lines: Welsh Highland-both ends,Ffestiniog-summer & winter,Tal-Y-Lyn,Corris,Welshpool & Llanfair,Vale of Rheidol-over several years,Teifi Valley-ditto,Gwili Rly,South Devon Rly,West Somerset Rly,Didcot G.W. Soc.,contempory mainline (south & west ),quite a few diesel railcars plus Irish & Jugoslav excursions . In addition I have a fair collection of books and mags (typical pack-rat) so may have that elusive shot you are chasing. speaking of pack-rats I`d best go and check on Boris-last I saw he was trying to teach Awk to swear in Magyar,back soon,nick[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Hi Guys!

Some sanity has returned to the bar! [swg] Was beginning to think I was running a Kindercare - or something like that!

Pete Since YOU are a Regular at this bar - let me buy YOU a drink! [tup]

I agree wholeheartedly about the GG1's in only the Pennsy livery - Tuscan red or Brunswick green - not Penn Central, Conrail or most certainly Amtrak. Ugh.

Okay, you're in for the CONTEST with Nick as your choice and the total Posts being 650. [tup]

Nick Are you interested in overseeing the adolescent control 'round here [?] [swg]

Banned from the bar [?] Not this one! We'd be at a loss without your sense of humo(u)r! [tup]

Surely you are not staying up throughout the wee hours to attend the 10 PM (Eastern) Birthday Bash [?] Things are in place and all we need is the guest of honor ...

Catch ya later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Hello my name is nick ,I am 45 and should not be allowed in any bars,cyber or otherwise

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom And all.

A pint of Katy pale this warm afternoon please.

In case I can't make it in later [bday] ROB Thanks for the info would you know what class of sub very simular to the O class were built in the early to mid 70's I think some were for Brazil[?]

The posts recently really are first rate the ability to make it seem as you were there is amazing. So ring the bell BORIS a round for the REGULARS PLEASE. [yeah]

*** I hope you enjoy your trip to the U.K. I was down Gatwick last year and it seems that the Gatwick Expresses were stopped waiting for the up train to leave so it had an empty platform [sigh]

AS NICK said the Gatwicks were worked by class73 Electro-diesels in a recent mag. it reported that the 73's use on this service ended on July 28 after more than 21 years.
It will now be run by class 460 emus [sigh]
This brings me onto another great idea by the manager, ugly locos, for me the one that takes the biscuit, in the U.K., for steam was the Southern Railway Q1 class. They were a war time product with no running plate with the square boiler cladding was attached directly to the mainframes. They were nicknamed Charlies or Coffee-Pots by the crews.Perhaps NICK has a photo of them ( I really liked them W.C.&P pictures[tup]).
I think the GG1's are impressive locos and in Pennsy livery are handsome locos but they dont look so good in Amtrak livery (as the one in St. Louis) it is amazing how a bit of paint can change a locomotive so much.

For the compition TOM can I say NICK IN WESTWALES with 180 and the most posts of 650.

Hope to call in later PETE.

[siberianmo]

No, rgroeling Chris I do not believe you completely understand.

This is a cyber bar 'n grill. In the real world, you wouldn't be permitted inside because of your age. That's not discrimination - that's the way society wants it. Booze and adult talk can come later - it has nothing to do with not wanting the "younger blood" in the hobby.

This thread has nothing to do with where you are tyring to take it. Just think about what you've Posted - models and building kits and all that would be far better suited on the Model Railroader Forums not Classic Trains. You may be far more mature for your age - that I couldn't possibly know - however, your response could be viewed as indicating otherwise. Would "all of the adults" who know you take you inside a bar [?] I think not.

Sorry you feel so defensive - but perhaps one day you'll get it. Remember, all of us were where you are, 14, one time in our lives.

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

[siberianmo]

Hi rgroeling Chris and [#welcome] to "Our" Place!

Perhaps you've seen the Post I put up for BMTRAINS Alex, which is on this page (103) - suggest you take a look at it. We really appreciate your interest in us, but I think since we are a bar 'n grill, perhaps you would be better served by directing your interests and energies elsewhere. I checked your profile and congratulate you on providing us with some info to know you better ........ [tup] Feel free to do the same with us - just click on our cyber names in the left hand margin of the page.

We're not here to hurt anyone's feelings, but one of the things about the Forums and associated threads is to make sure that one understands the concepts and discussion topic before signing on ....... Does that make sense to you [?] Hope so.

I would recommend two places for someone in your age group - try Chief Eagles - Coffee shop on Toy Trains Forums or over on Model Railroader Forums - Big_Boy_4005's Coffee Shop You'll enjoy either or both!

Take care and enjoy this great hobby of ours - trains, model and real! [yeah]

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

[siberianmo]

Perhaps we should call this place, Ted - unleashed! What a Post! [swg] Certainly covered the bases on that one ......... [tup]

Let's see - at the rate we're movin' - and if left up to you, everyone would have as many awards hanging 'round their necks, waists and pinned to their tunics [?] as a 3rd World military officer! Gawd help 'em if they were to fall overboard with all that weight attached to 'em - right to the bottom! Arggggggggggh, Matey! [4:-)][oX)]

So, where are we [?] We have The Order of the Stools - Reserved & Permanent - The Silver Throttle Award - The who-knows-what-it-is-to-be-called Belt Buckle Award w/without the Cross of the Bronze Trestle and Regular patron's status. Phew .......... Gotta take a step back from all of this ....... too much to absorb right now. [swg]

A Ruppert's brew [?] Now there's a fine NYC beer for 'ya - how about a Piels from Harry and Bert fame [?] Then of course, good old Knickerbocker, Rheingold, Shaefer (with one 'f'), Ballantine and Rubsam and Horrmann (R&H). Those were the days (daze)! [tup]

Brings to mind a quick story: When I was just out of high school and prior to enlisting in the USCG, I worked with my uncle who was a journeyman plumber. He was awarded a contract to refit the R&H brewery where we lived - what a summer! The hospitality room was the most popular place to be at the end of those hot, humid NYC summer days (daze). [yeah] The brews of my youth ......... [swg]

Okay, Ted you're in the CONTEST with Rob as your pick! Don't sweat the numbers count - for I understand someone of your advanced age probably would have a hulluva time with that! [swg]

Hope to see you tonight - after all, it is Eastern time for the Birthday Bash at 10 PM.

Catch ya on the rebound and thanx for the Post (I think .........)[;)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

I know this is premature but I may be called out later this p.m., I hope not. [bday] Rob,[bday] and many happy returns. May your trolley pole (pantagraph) always be erect and wheel (shoe, collector) "juiced."[tup] Tom please, open my "tab" for a round to those present and others who join us later, thanks. Thirty four, "That Was a Very Good Year" (Sinatra/Nelson Riddle, 1960's). BTW, you also get my [tup] for the most entries at "Our" Place. As to the "numbers;" I am totally non-plussed.[banghead] [drum roll cymbal crash] Gentlemen, I raise my flagon in a toast to Rob: his stedfast loyalty and helpful good nature is the hallmark of what "Our" Place has come to be. A chorus of "For he's a Jolly Good Fellow."[^]

Boris, the bell please....Oh never mind! 'Tink, tink, tink' [swizzel stick to flagon]: Gentlemen, we also have in our midst a rare talent in the person of coalminer 3 who has gone well beyond the "call of duty" incumbant upon the Members of the "Permanent Stools." I'm sure you will approve of presenting the "Cross of the Bronze Trestle" to be engraved upon the "Silver Throttle Award" at this time. Hear, hear! Congratulations Sir. HOLD IT, There is yet another nominee for the "Brass (safety belt) Buckle Award!" For his tireless rendering of great information on railroading both here and abroad: Member wrwatkins (***) is hereby nominated. Hearing no objections- -Congratulations ***. Here Ye, Here Ye! This is no time for half measures! Nick[C=:-)], for your outstanding wit, good humor and erudition in so many areas of "The Good Life;" the Order of the Permanent Stools hereby submits your name for the "Silver Throttle Award." When taken under advisement, I feel sure that it will be yours.[^]

Okay, that is all of the formalities from the Management side of the brass rail. phew! Let's see what sort of debauchery we can forge into as the celebration unfolds.[}:)] The silly hats, whistles, cake and Broads Ladies are on the way. A Ruppert's "Knick" for now, please Tom. Cheero 'til the fun begins.

[siberianmo]

Hi BMTRAINS Alex and [#welcome] to "Our" Place!

I see you've been around the Forums for a bit, but couldn't find too much about you in your profile. Anyway, I'll skip my standard pitch and get to the meat of the message for all new customers:

1. This is a cyber bar ‘n grill for adults who appreciate Classic Trains – real and model – and enjoy a bit of humor while discussing them.

2. This thread was started as an alternative to those where hit ‘n run postings are the norm. Here, we strive to be inclusive with all who participate as regulars. There will be those who stop by to check us out and they will receive an appropriate [#welcome] from the Proprietor along with encouragement to join us. Keep in mind, this is not the typical thread seen elsewhere. One has to earn a regular place at this bar.

3. To be a regular all one needs to remember is to participate and contribute to the topic on a regular basis.

4. We have a Birthday Watch List for all regulars. To sign up, just provide your birth date (month-date-year). We’ll schedule a cyber Birthday Bash for you on the day of your choice.

5. We have an Order of the Stools Club whereby regular customers of the bar receive recognition as either permanent or reserved holders of ”Our” Place bar stools.

6. We feature SUMMARIES of postings by our customers. They are provided to help with catching up on periods of absence. They also contain relevant information at the beginning for all customers.

7. The bar is CLOSED on Sunday and Christmas Day. However, submissions may be dropped off in the mail slots on either set of front doors.

8. We have two basic rules that must be followed: (1) Greet the bartender when arriving – and – (2) Order a drink! Of course, adherence to tolerance for the other guy’s point of view and avoidance of hot button issues like politics and religion are paramount.

9. The Proprietor of “Our” Place only asks that you enjoy yourself while here, but requests that before posting information, take the time to catch up with what you may have missed. To do otherwise turns this thread into what we’ve been trying to avoid.

So, there you have it - if this is the kind of place you're interested in - great. If not, no problems - enjoy your love of trains and we'll be seeing ya!

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

[Anonymous]

Hi all
well unfotunately I was too late for a railroad
12 years after trains stopped running
4-6-2's 2-6-0s & 2-8-0s handled Freight & passenger
Later to be relaced by Geeps and Alco Roadswitchers
I just found an issue of a local Magazine Dedicated to the Liine with a Pic o our old local station
BTW Coalminer3 did you used to live on the bedford branch
Alex

[siberianmo]

G'mornin' barndad Doug

Appreciate your stopping by this fine day ........ I'm sure Boris will fix you up with something special to kick start your mornin'! [swg] Grounds, it is! [tup]

Good point ! When it comes to total Posts, that would be inclusive - everyone, including yours truly. However, for the purposes of this CONTEST, I'd rather exclude myself and leave it just to you guys ....... So,. give it 'nother try for the number. [swg]

One day, and not really all that far off, there won't be anyone who can do the type of presentation you were fortunate enough to attend regarding railroading from past decades - especially the end of the "Golden years." Several years back, I attended a two-day symposium at the University of Missouri - St. Louis (my alma mater) where the focus was on the diesel engines and passenger car construction of days gone by. It was a riveting two days - no joke. People from the former St. Louis Car Company - Budd - Pullman - Alco - GM, Baldwin, Fairbanks-Morse, et al, were in attendance and really put on a great dialogue with some fantastic film and slides. Left me kinda sad, but also happy that I was able to listen to the people who really know what it was like to transitiion over to diesel - the impacts, etc. Really great. Thos kinds of experiences are well worth the costs in money and time to attend,. wouldn't you agree [?]

Sorry you have gotten side tracked (again), but then again - we KNOW who runs the show, eh [?]

See ya tonite for Rob's Birthday Bash at 10 PM (Eastern) .........

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom and fellow early-birds. I'll have some coffee grounds to rub the sleep from my eyes
My guess for most posts other than Siberianmo, is the Birthday-Boy himself ... Trolleyboy Rob

Since you asked "whoever" for the most posts (which means to me that Tom is to be considered) .... my guess is 700.
My Railroad and Locomotive Historical Society chapter had their first meeting after the summer break last night. A former engineer from the CNW brought 5 trays of slides he took in the Chicago area while on the job since 1962. A lot of the content was structures that are no longer here anymore. I was amazed that the members of this club knew so much about the capabilities of the equipment, when they were used, their numbers and or names, how long they were in service, the exact location each picture was taken from, the number of switches in the area, the names of the customers the trains were servicing ... and so on! It was amazing.
This will be another day I don't make it to the IRM. The HAHS (hooved animal humane society) is having their annual fundraiser, and my bride expects me to be there with her.
Have a great day all!

[siberianmo]

SATURDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Mornin' All!

Not much to say, other than I hope this weekend is restful and pleasant for all of our customers and families ........ Let's keep in mind that tomorrow is a Special Day of Remembrance for all Americans and our friends 'round the world.

News of the Day:

(1) Repeat Consider helping those who are suffering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina.

(2) Reminder! Birthday Bash for trolleyboy Rob tonight at 10 PM (Eastern). If you think you cannot make it, drop him your best wishes anytime convenient! [tup]

(3) CONTEST

Okay guys - who do you think has the most Posts on this thread through the first 100 pages excluding me[?]

I've got the tally - but thought you'd like to engage in a bit of chance. Winner gets Open Bar - any Mon, Tues or Wed nite 'til closing!

Bonus prize: Keys to the Penthouse Suite for a weekend nite if you come closest to the leading number of Posts.

(1) Guess the customer who has the most .....
(2) Pick a number for whoever has the most Posts .... (doesn't have to be the person who has the most Posts)

EXCLUDE ME IN BOTH CATEGORIES

Participants thus far:

Nick says trolleyboy Rob ….. with no guesstimate for the number.
Rob says wrwatkins *** ….. with no guesstimate for the number.

CONTEST CLOSES MONDAY - tally released on TUESDAY!

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 07:07:39 (102) Friday’s News & Summary

(2) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 08:08:53 (102)

(3) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 08:08:53 (102)

(4) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 08:15:20 (102)

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 08:26:16 (102) reply to Theodorebear

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 08:40:08 (102) reply to coalminer3

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 09:07:13 (102) CONTEST

(8) wrwatkins *** Posted: Today, 09:27:58 (102)

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 09:45:28 (102) reply to wrwatkins

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 17:31:58 (102) Nick’s photo album

(11) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 19:47:16 (102)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 20:22:53 (102) reply to nickinwestwales

(13) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 21:27:52 (102)

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 21:47:21 (102) reply to nickinwestwales

(15) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 09 Sep 2005, 23:47:56 (102)

(16) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 10 Sep 2005, 00:09:03 (102)

(17) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Sep 2005, 00:47:53 (102)

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

[siberianmo]

Hi Rob

Well, your Birthday Bash date has finally arrived! Hope you had a great time on your Natal Day, where several of us wished you [bday]. I mean, just how many days does one require [?] [swg]

Your reference to traffic in Boston brings to mind a story: Back in the 1960's, I was an instructor at the USCG's Radioman School in Groton, Connecticut. We used to take the senior class (in their 6th month) on a field trip to our communications and rescue coordination center in downtown Boston. The trip up from Groton was by bus, driven by one of the First Class Petty Officer instructors. It came to pass that we were running short of drivers for the bus (a rather large "school bus," painted grey and affectionately called the Grey Goose - along with a few other names!). Anyway, I was told to get a bus driver's license, as I'd be driving the class to Boston. So, off I went for instructions - took the test - passed it - and I became a bus driver. What a trip. The bus was one of those double clutch affairs, with more gears than Carters had pills. I mean this was a challenge to say the least. Rolling along the highway was a piece of cake - getting in and out of rest area parking lots was an adventure. Navigating in downtown Boston - well that's where it got interesting. We rolled into downtown in the midst of morning rush hour traffic. Mayhem would be the polite word to describe the scene. I wound up heading down a one-way street, in the opposite direction, and man oh man was that a riot. Coming to a full stop, I'll never forget the look on the Boston traffic cop's face, as he sauntered over to the bus and asked, "Hey, sailor, just where do you think you're going [?] Mustering up the best response I could think of, I replied, "I was heading over to the Custom's House, until all those cars decided they wanted my parking spot." He laughed - blew his whistle several times and began to disperse the cars all in front of me. A path was made, and I rolled the bus to a "No Parking" spot, right at the curb of where I wanted to be. The cop said that I shouldn't worry about it - "Just park it and when you are finished, we'll get you headed in the right direction." I never lived that episode down amongst my shipmates, and of course the members of that class. Okay, so much for that.

Okay - you're in for the CONTEST, but NOT for the bonus. Sorry - you gotta pick a number - not a series. [tup][tdn]

Enjoy the day and see you tonight, for sure! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Hello again Leon or Cindy ( why are you still here hmmm ) a small cr to nurse please. CM3 another wonderfull tle of passenger mayhem traffic in old Boston. I would dearly loved to have seen soo many wonderfull old fallen flags parading in an dout of the city[tup][^] Alas I was born a couple of decades late for that[V] Mind you with such vived and detailed exerpts from you and *** and Al the glory days of the old fallen flags are still alive,please keep them comming. This goes to show the awsome power of this thread! [tup][:D] A question for you did n't the Boston light rail surface or subway run into the North station as well ?Well gentle man I must depart, See you all tomorrow. Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good evening folks. This is a replacement for last nights post which the computer ate[:(!][xx(][tdn]. First off thank-you everyone for the warm birthday greetings makes one feel all warm and fuzzy inside and it isn't the cr.[:p][}:)][;)]BTW Tom I loved the birthday card Boris and Awk made for me. Though are the little bird footprints willinly placed there by Awk's choice or was there some carpathian persuation?[B)]. *** Your tome on your rail travels in jolly old and in europe made me feel as though I was right there riding with you[tup] Tom I'm thinking that that post needs to be considered a silver throttle candidate.[^] Ted Again thank-you for the warm [bday] greetings I'm lookinmg forward to tomorrows festivities. My crack at your little ugliest of the uglies would be a BL2. Not sure what EMD was thinking there. The worst paint scheme I can think of is the passionate purple / silver of the old ACL. ( imagine that on a BL2! ) pwolfe Any major generator work would have been done in house by St. John's shippbuilding. Considering the length of servive 62-63 to 2001 on the "O" class I'm sure that they were refurbed or replaced and yest they would have had to cut them out. My guess is that when all three underwent the SOUP refits in the early 90's this was done. The after torpedo mk37 tubes were removed than and the forward T room was updated to mk 48's from mk 46's. Tom my navel passion is just that. I love history and you and I have had a few discussions in that theater. Canadian navy history is espeacially interesting. Guess I just like old machinery[tup][;)] My guess on your little contes t would be our friend a stool member ***, I hazard him as 100-150 posts. Well gents have more catching up to do. See as many of you as I can tomorrow evening. Rob

[siberianmo]

Hey Nick

[yeah] Long day, indeed. A bit of strress on crowded highways - 2 hours of driving a rather boring route - best part of the day were the tunes on the FM. Forgot my CD's ....

Well, any country that could take responsibility for the Citroen and Renault, surely should have stayed away from rail locomotive design! [swg]

Regarding loco design, et al - for me, my favorites were the U.S. and Canadian diesels of the 50's - just beautiful machines. The present day passenger loco's just don't do it for me - they all look like those cardboard toy trains given away by the railroads to kids - fold along the dotted line and press into place. That's kinda the way they appear to me; no charm - no pizzazz at all. Now, there were some great looking steam engines as well - but I'm guilty of bias on the side of what I recall seeing as a kid.

Are you serious about the photo site [?] There aren't very many options, really. Just call up the URL and look at the pix. Now, if the site was in your name, you could do some eidting and the like. Unfortunately when it comes to sizing the pix, they can't be enlarged on this site - just reduced. I'm going to try them out on another site - just to see if I can get 'em to grow ....... [swg]

Thanx again for the Posts and I know you've got to sleep some time - so hit it, man - hit it! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Evening Boss-Long day ?-just sit back and let the place run itself tonight,-Cindy,attend to the master,he is fatigued from his travels and in need of comfort,the implied slur on a revered Icon of his youth has been too much to bear..........I dare not raise the possibility of Camelbacks as all-time uglies although the French came up with some fairly serious contenders,both aesthetically and mechanically-Crampton and his ilk were concerned with function over form during Victorian era- A Brit guy named MIKE SHARMAN has built a Victorian multi-gauge layout with termini,works and main lines all staffed with his hand-built collection of period locos,stock etc. He also markets loco components so should have a website-if so should be worth a look----------now [4:-)]TOM-many thanks for photo site-now,how do I make it work....I am,to quote A.A.Milne,a bear of little brain & easily confused--right back to the galley with me,should be about time to start on the sauces-party on guys[^] nick[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Hello Nick

Glad you stopped in to wake us all up! [swg] Good Gawd Gertie, is this ever a slow Friday ........ [%-)]

As you know, Sep 8th was Rob's Natal Day but he elected to schedule the Birthday Bash for Saturday the 10th at 10 PM (Eastern). So, where you are - it is already Saturday (for those who are wondering why the [bday] wishes). Therefore, you are the first reveler on board! [yeah][wow]

By the by, I appreciate your Email response to my request for input ....... [tup]

That is some menu you've put together for the Birthday Bash and I would encourage one and all to come hungry for [dinner] dinner! [tup]

Go easy with Cindy my man - she's been here all - filled in for me for about 7 hours while I tended to other business in my life. For unpaid "staff," she's a gold mine! I thought she had departed the scene - but I should have known she'd stick 'round just to see if you'd show up![}:)][:-,]

My assumption is that you've viewed your pix on the URL I posted - if you wish, send 'em again to me in a larger format and I'll repost 'em.

Lumbering characterless leviathons! Them's are fightin' words to Pennsy fans who revere the GG1's ........ [censored][banghead] Indeed! [tdn] To my way of looking at it, one simply cannot make those kinds of comarisons. Diesels with diesels - steamers with steamers and unique with unique (as in GG1). It's kinda like trying to make a case for the greatest athelete of all time. Just can't be done - far too many variables. Best athelete of a particular era, perhaps - but of all time [?] Nah. So, lay off my GG1, buddy - or there could be trouble brewing ........

As always, you've managed to include those who have had something to say in your Post - which is what makes you such a valued customer and member of the Order of the Permanent Stools.[tup]

Okay, you're in for the CONTEST with Rob as your pick. How about the Bonus question - have a total number for whoever has the most Posts [?]

Hope you get a chance to check in again this weekend.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Well Good Evening one and all,just stopped in to relieve Cindy for a couple of hours (...stop it you lot ) catch up with some post,prepare for the evenings festivities (board up windows on inside,cover upholstery in plastic sheeting,remove any furniture likely to be used as a weapon,pay Leon up front,prime Boris with black coffee & Slivovitz and shackle him to the stove,build stage out of beer crates and plywood.......usual stuff) and most importantly,hang up loads of banners proclaiming.......[bday] TROLLY-BOY ROB [bday]---these were produced by Clueless & Doyle and I suspect the precinct house copier may well be involved. Right,to posts-WOLFMAN-awright mate! -have yourself a beer,the donegal cars were diesels-effectively road buses with rail chassis-single ended so required turntables ( slightly short -sighted for a branch line unit )---have a couple of B/W shots which I will get scanned in asap COALMINER3-nice submission -good to have some classic freight rumbling past-If it wasn`t for the Oil trains running out of the Milford Haven refineries we wouldn`t have a line round these parts,passenger numbers wouldn`t make the case and with the Navy mine depots closed `secure status` has been lost -the only full trains are the Fishguard-Rosslare boat-trains 2 2-car multiple units per day. ***-Have another Guinness,you may need the practice-Your notes on the Gatwick Express brought the memories flooding back-I was born and raised by that line-not far from Coulsdon Sth,Nth & Smitham Stns-between East Croydon(originally the only booked stop on the G/W exp.) and Redhill,where through traffic from Reading on the G.W main connects. Did much early trainspotting leaning over a pre-cast concrete foot bridge crossing 8 main 2 local & 2 freight lines where `main` and `quarry` lines divide a mile or so south of the junction at Purley...remember the first Gatwick Express units-"refurbished" CEP & VEP units (lots of seats torn out and replaced with luggage racks plus a coat of paint-either unpowered units or traction motors removed I suspect since power provided by class 73 Electro-Diesels,initially single units at N end of 2 4-car units,later a `73 at each end of 3 4car units after adhesion problems All units dedicated to G/E service painted in U.K. Pullman colours of Cream & Umber-very smart but rather spoilt by bright yellow end-warning panels,have a safe journey my friend ! MANAGER TED-How are you Sir ? Ugly Ducklings,well this could get ugly in more ways than one[^]HO HO HO![^]---I,for example consider the G.G.1`s to be lumbering characterless leviathons compared to the sinuous grace of the Swiss "Krokodil"s,but not all would agree........................................[}:)]. So-to the party,ah yes before I forget,[4:-)]TOM has some pix of small petrol cars on W.C&P,have found some others also Schull & Skibbereen #4 running along the roadside ca. 1937-will scan in soonest--party,yes where was I-Food -thats the stuff! How about an Indian Night tonight.....?----An initial survey of my desmenes suggests We can be fairly safe in offering As starters or side dishes, Lamb or Vegetable samosa`s,poppadoms & chutney tray,Mixed Pakora,Chicken Tikka Tandoor ,Keema Naan`s and Mixed Bhajii`s . for main dishes we have Beef Madras,Chicken Jalfrezi,Lamb Bhuna,Red Thai King Prawns,Vegetable Korma or Dhansak ,all served with Pilau Rice & Garlic & Coriander naan bread or the special platter-Chicken & Prawn Biryani with Gobi Saag Aloo,Tarka Dhal,Green Salad with Raita,Poppadoms & chutney tray, right,that should hold `em-make sure we have huge reserves of very cold beer-My other contribution to Tonights Natal Day festivities is another pic lodged with [4:-)]TOM-this one of an engine in distress-I thought it might make a caption contest,as to contests My [2c] bet for greatest number of posts would be the Birthday Boy Himself-a contributer from early days and a `several quick ones a day` man back in those far off days if memory serves. Aha,here is Cindy,glowing with wholesome goodness-my cue to retire to the kitchen and grind spices,torment Boris and generally prepare for the Ball-tonights band,"The Tie-walkers" are supposed to be a top class Bluegrass act out of Hazard Kty fresh off a world tour with Michelle Shocked......................O.K.-I`m out of site for a while.enjoy the party and once again [bday]ROB take care now,nick[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Guys!

I've returned ..... Cindy said not ONE regular customer stopped by during the time she was behind the bar - not ONE! Good grief - feast or famine once again.

NICK has a photo album - check it out:

http://photobucket.com/albums/b222/siberianmo/Nicks%20pix/

Nick said he'd provide the details once they got posted .....

For Nick: You may want to resend these pix to me in a larger format ....

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day ***

Just wanted to acknowledge your Post before checking out for most of the day .....

Off to Europe again, eh [?] Well, that doesn't mean you can't partake in the Birthday Bash for Rob tomorrow or the Contest!

When it comes to brews in Great Britain - I'm a pansy. Don't like 'em that well - prefer what we have here in the states. Plus, in my time over on the other side of the Pond - they served 'em all warm. Ugh - couldn't handle it. Then in one Pub, they offered to put ice cubes in the brew to chill it .... oh well. Guess it's all what one gets accustomed to. Now in Germany - well, that was a different story .... [swg]. But, I'm referring to long, long ago and as with the rest of the world - undoubtedly things have changed.

Gotta run ........

Cindy has the bar - and anything else she wants, methinks![}:)][:-,]

See ya!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good morning Y'all.

Tom, I will have a Guiness stout. Must get in practice for England in a week. I drink very little beer here. I like a strong one such as in Europe and tha American stuff is a little like yellow foamy water. Something else looks like that that I will not delve into. At home I usually dring one six pack a year (yes, one per year). Now in Europe it is a little different. Looking forewsrd to some good bubbly there. We do have Guiness here but at about $4 per bottle I do not want it that bad.

Thank you Passengerfan for the info on the North Sydney depot. Unfortunately we did not see this station while in Sydney last month. Spent most of our time in Louisbourg at the reconstructed fort, the railroad museums on the way to the fort and along the coast.

And thank you Nick for the info on the slam door cars. I did not know what their official name was. The ones I have ridden on you had to open the window to access the exit handle. No conductor override at that time. I fully understand why they are being phased out for safety reasons. The English are overly caucious regarding safety which is good. Every time I go into an office building I am handed a sheet detailing the fire evacuations procedures. No problem with this as I do not want to be fried. Even the new trains with vestibule doors have to be actuated by the conductor to be opened.

On to trains. Nick, once I boarded a train at Gatwick going to Brighton that had slam doors. The train just started to move, having gone less than one foot, but still in motion, when a lady opened one of the slam doors and got in. The train immediately went into emergency stop. The train crew went through the train looking for the person. She was wearing a trench coat which I assumed she removed to evade identification. Do not know if they ever caught up with her.

The UK has a marvelous train system. I think that you will pass more passenger trains on the 35 minute ride from Gatwick to Victoria than we have in all of North America. Once a coworker was going to the UK on vacation and wanted to go to Brighton and asked me when the trains run. Having traveled to Brighton several times I replied "on the hour, 20 after, and 20 before" He asked which hour and I replied "Every one". Such a great system, however, the press, like here, seems to kick BR or the current operators for every little glitch. I probably have ridden the nonstop Gatwick Express atleast 300 times. I have yet to have it be a non stop. Somewhere between Gatwick and Victoria it will get a red signal and we will stop in the middle of the country. The stop will only be for a minute, but never the less it has never been a true non stop.

London has about 10 major rail stations that still have loads of trains out of them Not like Chicago where almost all stations have been demolished. I have been at Waterloo where they will have two trains on one track at rush hour and this is a station that has about 30 tracks. BR has, in my opinion, the bad habit of not posting what track a train will be departing from until they are ready for boarding. You will have a mass of people in the station concourse all looking at the overhead monitors waiting for their train to be announced then they ru***o that gate. They could post the gate earlier and that would curtain the mob scene in the concourse even if they do not open the gate until ready for boarding. You might have 3-4 trains going to the same place within 30 minutes. The secret is to look where it is "calling at". If a lot of stations are listed this means it is a milk run as opposed to an express train. Anyway it still is a great system.

Well, the Guiness has been downed so I better get to work. I seem to work better with a buzz on. (just kidding. As tom will attest I never drink at lunch while working. Now come 5 PM and it is a different story.

Cheers,
***

[siberianmo]

CONTEST

Okay guys - who do you think has the most Posts on this thread through the first 100 pages excluding me[?]

I've got the tally - but thought you'd like to engage in a bit of chance. Winner gets Open Bar - any Mon, Tues or Wed nite 'til closing!

Bonus prize: Keys to the Penthouse Suite for a weekend nite if you come closest to the leading number of Posts.

(1) Guess the customer who has the most .....
(2) Pick a number for the most Posts ....

EXCLUDE ME IN BOTH CATEGORIES

CONTEST CLOSES MONDAY - tally released on TUESDAY!

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

[siberianmo]

Good Morning CM3

Thanx for the round and Juke $$$! [tup] Boris Ring it ... OJ all 'round on CM3 [yeah]

How fortunate you were to have had the opportunity to grow up in an area with such great railroading activity and access. A far cry from what I was able to take in in NYC .... nevertheless, the images locked in my grey matter are also special and call me back to those times every now 'n then.

You don't need me to praise your efforts again - but I'll say this: If anyone 'round here has taken up the mantra for Classic Trains with a flair for the personal reflection, it's you! There's no competition for plaudits going on - believe me - for there are several of our number who have Posted some rather captivating accounts of railroading past. Yours just seem to take me back in time from the moment I start reading .... Well done! [tup][tup][tup]

I particularly liked your reference to the passing scenes through the passenger car windows as slides. That's precisely what they appear to be! When I read that, it sort of hit me like a ton of bricks - what a great analogy indeed. [tup]

Somewhere within this thread I've revealed a bit of personal history regarding my comings and goings at North Station. So, it's only proper for me to admonish you for one glaring ommission: The Iron Horse Bar 'n Restaurant! Now, that was a fixture in the place and one whose Siren Song called to me many an evening ....... [swg]

Catch ya later and thanx again for a great Post! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Ted

I'm still here - catchin' up on some last minute things before embarking on my trek to Illinois and Scott AFB. Long day - once a month ritual to take advantage of those ever dwindling retirement bennies! About a 106 mile round trip - so with today's gas prices, hmmmmmmmm. The wagon gets about 27 mpg for a trip like that - used to think that was great. Now ....... [tdn]

Appreciate your Email response; still waitin' for the rest of 'em. Something else to be perplexed about! [swg]

A word of caution - Awk is not to be let out of my private quarters, unless perched on my starboard shoulder! With those felines lurking 'round this place - mince meat for sure! Perhaps I should reintroduce Juneua to the scene. Hmmmmmm.

Hope the festivities tomorrow go off well - it is somewhat late and I doubt that we'll see Nick live for that one. Time zones and all, of course ........

Regarding the posting of pix on this thread - I think it's a good idea if kept within reason (size wise). I've tried my best to get the message out regarding that issue, but ...... URL's really work well. Post a pix or two, then go to the URL for the rest of 'em. That's more better. So, Mr. Manager if yuou want to oversee something like this - GO FOR IT [tup]

Catch ya later today .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]