"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[Anonymous]

Good morning ya'all
Met with the Chief of Mission from the US State Department yesterday. Hinted about a drink, but he did not bite so i guess I am in withdraw now. No railroads in Tripoli. There is one connecting Bengazi to Egypt, however, that is over 150 miles to the east. I think it is out of service now. Did ride the Gatwick Express from the airport to Victoria station. This is a nonstop train which I have ridden atleast 200 times over the years. I hav yet to have it a non stop. they always seem to get a red signal and have to stop in the middle of the pasture for a minute or so. So much for non stop trains.

Feel very safe here. Everyone is very friendly and courteous. Have not seen the military in uniform carrying uzis like i have seen in other third world countries. The only police presence is the white uniformed traffic police directing traffic or investigating accidents. I would not want to drive here. they drive like it is a demolition derby. Not for the faint of heart. Have not really gone out much. It is too HOT to go out and walk around. The US State Department says that street crime is almost non existant. Pleasantly surprised with the country. I do like tree nd fresh water. Not much of that here. The Mediterranean is salt water, but it is pretty. Getting the usual run around with the National Oil company. Cannot meet today/meeting at 10 not 9, etc.

All for now. Our driver is waiting to take us to a meeting.

About the birthday bash. The 15th of July will be fine. On the 16th i am heading back across the pond to jolly old England for a week. Will do some train riding there as i will be staying in London and riding the First Great Western trains to Reading, about 30 miles west of London.

Cheers,
***

[Trainnut484]

QUOTE: Originally posted by siberianmo

For: Theodorebear Ted There was a time that Amtrak used to run close to on time between St. Louis and KCity - [yeah] no kidding. Anyway, my turn arounds used to provide about 2 1/2 hours for browsing and eating at the Center. No more. Last time I took a day trip, which was this past Spring - I never left the train. We were so late getting in, that the Conductor said, "No point in getting off, we're loading up and off we go."

Tom,

If UP is doing maintenance on the line, the delay could be longer[banghead] Might plan on having a longer turnaround time [:)]

Take care,

Russell

[Trainnut484]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Theodorebear

There is another 4-8-4 (Frisco) on display at Mohawk Park in Tulsa, Ok. It headed "The Meteor" in its day.

Hello Ted, Tom, and everyone else. I'll have another Miller Lite. There's also another Frisco 4-8-4 on park display in Springfield, MO. I don't remember the number off hand (CRS kicking in). There's also an ex CNW (I think) commuter car, a baggage car, and a BN caboose coupled to the Northern housing a Frisco museum. It's worth checking out if you haven't already.

Ted, Theodorebear,you have mail.

Tom, Siberianmo, email me when comin to KC.

Take care,

Russell

[siberianmo]

For: Theodorebear Ted Perhaps it's time for you to get your cyber situation Exorcised! [}:)] Good grief - names you cannot change - messages you haven't inserted - what's next [?] Rod Serlling, where are you [?] [swg]

I've had many a lunch in that Steetcar named Desire at Crown Center. Appreciate the background info ..... There was a time that Amtrak used to run close to on time between St. Louis and KCity - [yeah] no kidding. Anyway, my turn arounds used to provide about 2 1/2 hours for browsing and eating at the Center. No more. Last time I took a day trip, which was this past Spring - I never left the train. We were so late getting in, that the Conductor said, "No point in getting off, we're loading up and off we go."

I'm not much on clubs per se .... Perhaps I should get a bit more involved with others in the hobby, but then I'd have absolutely no time for THIS! [swg]

Boris ring the bell - next round is on Ted - or whatever his name is! [;)]

Nite all .... [zzz]
Tom

[siberianmo]

For: Gunns Ah, the joys of being a parent .... the gift that keeps on giving! [swg]

As hot as it's been in Ontario these past weeks, perhaps Albuquerque is cooler ......
Three grandkids in town - can't all be bad! [tup]

Enjoy the brew! [:)]
Tom

[Anonymous]

Yet another unrpovoked attack on some trivial element of my Reply posts![:(!] I haven't the slightest idea where the "Formerly known as Bobfarkus" addition came from. It is not by my hand and I would be grateful to anyone who knows how to delete it! Until then: ignore it- - - -"maybe it will go away by itself."[tup]

The "page" Gunns sent along seems to help confirm that the Northern Class is a locomotive "of choice" for many public parks and excursion trains [Southern Pacific and Union Pacific, et al.]. There is another 4-8-4 (Frisco) on display at Mohawk Park in Tulsa, Ok. It headed "The Meteor" in its day. Smaller communities opted for older (and smaller) vinatges for obvious reasons, $$$. While railing around Old Mexico, I noticed a number of public displays of steam in various states of repair. Rail fan documentaries from India, China, the U.K and many others, seem to indicate an almost universal reverance for the steam era. It begs the question: why aren't there even more steam excursions than there presently are? Could be, we will see more ventures into this area in the near future? I hope so.[[^]

BTW, Tom did you notice the street car diner on the ground floor of the Crown Center. I was told that the facade is the actual front end of one of the early cars running in K.C. during the 1940's. I can attest to its accuracy as I rode those beasties as a lad in grade school. Unfortunately, I was (once again) with company (Aunt and Uncle) who couldn't find the merit in waiting in a line for lunching there. Instead, we took a 2 hour city tour (nostalgic) around the sights on a trolley of quite a different genre (rubber wheels, gas fumes, and decidedly "trackless," oh well. [zzz].

Looks as though our membership is loyal enough but health issues are taking a toll on frequent visits. Let's all "be careful out there" or before long won't have enough crew left for an amusement park 15" guage operation. Speaking of which, there is a fine "live steam" club in your "neck of the woods" Tom. I'll try to send their web page next time if you aren't already aware of it. But for now, I must put it away for another day. A 'round for the house and a night cap of Bristol's Irish Cream for me please. Gut nacht und viele danka, auf wiedrsehen, Ted.

[Gunns]

Back again this time I want a KristallenWeitsen,

Just had the "privelage" of moving my daughters stuff to her aprtment. She just moved down from Chathem Ont. with her 3 kids, has a job and her own place. Humidity is up a little 35% but we will survive. looks like the first order of cars for the "Roadrunner" are being delivered soon, post from trains railroad fourm, said so any way.

I dont know if I had allredy mentioned it but rumor has it that the 3751 may be coming to Abq for the Tricentennial celabrations, it <the 3751> was assinged here for much of its service on the AT&SF.

Gunns

[siberianmo]

For: passengerfan Al Double Crown [yeah] and ring the bell, Boris round on Al [tup]

Email received and responded to ..... hope the news regarding Chris is positive! [tup]

Never too old to appreciate the finer things in lilfe - and I'm not referring to working on a book! [}:)] Nevertheless, good luck with it. [tup] [}:)]

For anyone interested: check out the latest photo's on the progress with my S-gauge layout: http://www.railimages.com/gallery/thomasweber This is the layout that rises to the ceiling for storage.

Ready for 'nother one [?] By the way, WHERE'S NICK [?] Boris find Nick - fetch boy, fetch!
Tom

[passengerfan]

Well gand time for a Crown Royal Water back and a round for the house Come to think of it make mine a double.
Trolleyboy thanks for the tip on the Bytown Railway Society I think they might be a big help.
Well I still need info on the start up dates for the ACELA trains, even though they are out of service as I write this.I don't know if I am looking for two dates the one they began service New York-Washington and Washington - Boston or were they through trains only on the inaugural.

I am getting anxious to finish my tome and send it to the publisher. But better to get it right then be responsible for speading bad information. As it is the inauguration dates on several trains I researched were much in dispute. After seeking several sources I decided the majority wins and that was the way I made the decision on some of the streamliners. In one case I only had two sources so did the only diplomatic thing I could think of I flipped a coin. After days doing research I can understand why my mustache has gone white and my hair has thinned and turned gray. The young ladies in my office all kid me that I must be a ladies man. I told them keep their thoughts to themselves and dream I really am always busy doing research. Besides I am old enough to be their grandfathers. Its time for me to quit rambling and order another round of drinks.

[siberianmo]

For: Gunns I like your optimism - a Rendezvous in Albuquerque in 6 or 7 years - [yeah] wouldn't it be great to have this cyber bar 'n grill still operating then! [wow]

Enjoy the bier! [tup] [;)]

Tom

[Gunns]

I hear you, [b] Siberianmo [b/],
I cant cut more than 2 or 3 beers any more, still I brew my own and so can get what I want.
Gunns

[siberianmo]

For: earlydiesels Dan Received your Emails and will respond once I check out that web site. Thanx! [tup]

Insofar as my KCity Amtrak trip goes, these are usually turn arounds with just about an hour or less - no time for anything other than a quick walk over to Crown Center and back to Union Station. I do this about 4 or 5 times a year ..... My wife and I like to spend a couple of days out there in August (Anniversary) and then again November/December. We really enjoy the area and make those trips by car ... perhaps one of these trips we'll hook up .......

Whatillyahave [?] [;)]
Tom

[siberianmo]

For: Gunns I spent a short time in Germany many years ago - drove down from Lubeck to Munich and stopped at many local villages along the way - took about 4 days or so. Had a blast. Know all about those local biers and bier gartens! Got mighty drunk out in those days ..... as I said, many years ago. [tup]

Spent some time in the Alps - then checked in the car and took the train from Ulm to Paris (spent a bit of time there) then on to Brest, where I reunited with my ship for the trip back to Boston. Great memories.

von Weber [;)]

[Gunns]

Another Kosh Bitte,

I know what you mean earlydiesels, I found this page on the SBRHS site, http://www.sbrhs.org/484com.html

I guess that the big 4-8-4s were the glamour girls, and the railroads <at least the shops> hated to see them cut up for scrap. Our Loco hauled The Scout and The Chief in it's day, and was noted for its low opperating costs. BNSF has said that they consider the North South corridior in NM an Ideal venue for Guest steamers so we will at least be able to run. And who knows maby in 6 or 7 years I'll be able to invite Ya'll to a Rendezvous here. Sleeper cars and hot chillies.......

Thx for the sanwich,
Gunns

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone. I'll take something very cold. It's only late June and already I hate summer. Of course, I hate hot weather anyway. Glad to have you around, Gunn. I always like to hear from others in the preservation field. 4-8-4s seem to be quite popular stuffed and mounted. I am one of several caretakers of a Frisco northern here in Spfld.
About May of last year before our southend was officially opened, a railfan from Baltimore came and rode our rr. He was a volunteer at the B&O museum and we corresponded for a while. I have been to Baltimore but was driving truck so no time for tourism. Now I would like to go to play tourist and see all the rr sites.

[Gunns]

Kolch Bitte,

Ahhhhh

Your bier list reminded me of my psudeo rail fan trips in Germany, Rember that mass market beer is rare in germany, with each town having its own local brewery.
any way the trip runs like this, Get up, get outta the barracks,go down to the Bamhof, get a round trip ticket to any where... jump on the train, then each time it stops, get off and wait for the next train, >>>In the Gasthaus trying the LOCAL bier<<<< Man, I had some fun doing that, plus talking to train crews in my horrid german, pepole watching ect.... some trips I dont rember the end of But I allways made it back to base.
Gunns

BTW there is a bier in Essen that is called Funk Alt Bier...... <Spark Ale>
<G>

[siberianmo]

For: Rob - Haven't seen you around here at this time of the day for awhile .... stick around for lunch (explained above) - the Special is fantastic! [tup]

Baltimore (see comments above) could be a great place for a get together. Perhaps a wee bit on the expensive side, depending on time of year. That Inner Harbor draws lots of tourists willing to pay the big bucks for the limited hotel space in and around downtown. Nevertheless, I've always enjoyed visiting there too, just haven't made the time for the museums ....

Oh [yeah] Boris and water is like a match to a flame - he thinks that anything wet is to take your clothes off and jump into/onto. Be careful! [}:)]

Tom

[siberianmo]

For: Gunns Can't think of a better place to spend your weekend other than right here in "Our" Place [tup] ......... Specials are right over there on the buffet table - help yourself! [;)]

Just got a delivery of some German bier - take your pick:

* Altbier (old beer)
* Berliner Weisse (Berlin wheat beer)
* Bock (strong lager)
* Dortmunder Export
* Dunkel (dark beers)
* Gose (a distinctive Leipzig style)
* Hefeweizen (Bavarian wheat beer)
* Kristallweizen (filtered Bavarian wheat beer)
* Kölsch (Koelsch) (a very pale ale from Cologne/Köln)
* Märzen (Bavarian "March Beer" — the original Oktoberfest beer)
* Münchner Helles (Munich light lager)
* Pils (AKA Pilsner or Pilsener)
* Sticke (strong altbier)
* Rauchbier (smoke beer)

Enjoy! [tup] [;)]
Tom

[siberianmo]

For: Theodorebear Ted

Go easy on the cake - we've got some real specials for lunch today [dinner]. Aside from our super sized and super tasty sandwiches (grinders/subs/hoagies/hero's), there's fresh sea food salad with lobster, crab, tuna and salmon. Came in this AM when the Can-Am Express stopped by from the City. All iced up and ready to go ..... [tup]

I spent several portions of the summers in Baltimore back in the 1940's. My father shipped out of there on freighters and we used to stay with friends in an area today where one would need an armed guard in the day light! [yeah] Times and things do change. I can remember diving off the United Fruit Company pier into Baltimore Harbor back then ....... and, I'm still alive to speak about it! [;)]

Recall that Baltimore was a great railroad and trolley center. Rode the B&O or Pennsy down from NYC in those days - heavyweights, of course. Hotter than the shades of Hades in those cars, but that's just the way it was. [yeah] Good memories.

Never got around to visiting the museums, but one day that will happen. I have a son who lives in northern VA, outside of WashDC - so perhaps a day or two trip to Baltimore will be in order next time we set out to visit the grand kids.

Boris needs sugar the way a Satyr needs Viagra! [}:)] No,Boris - Danish bad, lima beans good! [sigh]

I'm planning a round trip to KCity within the next couple of weeks - just a day trip. Gotta get moving on it while the MO Amtrak still operates ....... just a matter of time until the plug gets pulled 'round these parts. [:(]

And, do you REALLY think anyone gives a rat's patoot about

QUOTE: formerly known as "Bobfarkus"

[?] [}:)]

Tom

[trolleyboy]

Gunn's I think you need to make friends with the local snapon tool guy. Ouch tool prices have gotten out of control.BTW that beverage sounds down right dangerous does uit come with a warning label?Being attached to the lightrail shops may not be a bad thing think of all the electricity you will have available to you.I hope the wheels museum gets a fair settlement. You hate to see any museum's displaced.Ted I've been concidering a trip to the Balt streetcar museum and the B&O museum. Heather's not been to either. Maybe we'll talk and meet up with you there. Keep cool everyone it's not fit for man nor beast out their today. Speaking of beasts I gave Boris more water we wouldn't want him to get heat stroke. Take care all. Rob

[trolleyboy]

Morning everyone. Coffee and a dani***oday I think Tom ( see I remembered to order today lol ) Ted Message recieved thanks and I've sent a smoke signal response to you. [swg] Al I had / have one other thought on your LRC delemma. If my foggy memoru serves 1983 was the official start running day in Canada for the LRC sets. They were run in break ins here and there earlier. Check the Bytown socoety in Ottawa. The canadian trackside guide that they publish yearly should list all the existing LRC equipment along with the vital stats. http://www.bytownrailwaysociety.ca/ They publi***he branchline magazine as well which will tell of retirements wrecks etc as well.Good bunch of guys to deal with. Hope this helps you. Well I'm off and running like a herd of turtles Catch you fine people later. Rob

[Gunns]

Ahh at last a bier... <it's my weekend>

QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy

<snip>
I'd go for a transfer table to shuttle stuff back and forth as well. Of coarse if price is no option build a full size ten stall brick roundhouse complete with turntable and boiler room
<snip again>

Rob

The old Barellas shops are here but are being devloped in to a conventiom center.... 31 tracks through 5 buldins and a transfer table.... <Sigh> Sadly it is all tied up in court the devloper is tring to force out the Wheels Museum crew and dosent even want to let them have a splace on site, <check out the News sections at thier site> http://www.wheelsmuseum.org/

However, the turn table that served the Albuqurque Round house is still in existance and the BNSF maintains and uses it so it will be avalible to us, the round house is gone though. We are getting a light rail setup here in ABQ and there is some speculation that we thr NMSL&RHS will be allowed to have our shops attached to the maint. facility for it. Lotsa "ifs" though...

Other news,
work day tomrrow, and I am in the process of rebuilding my Machienests tool box, <my orignal box and stuff were given away over the years of moving in the Army...> I am in the midst of some hefty sticker shock, 15 bucks for a center gauge!, 33 more for a pair of dividers!!, time to dust off my tool making skills and make my own!!!

Any way here is my list of rock bottom needed tools, A set of vernier calipers, a dial indicator with mount, a set of dividers, and a center gauge. Oh yes and a decmial equivlant chart with the drill/tap info on it. I have all of them except the dividers, and I can knock out a set of them today.

Yesterday was the June B day fest, 4 of them so we went out to a chuhasqueria <Brazilian BBQ> Kind of an all you can eat steak house, where the waiters come around with the meat on swords and they keep serving till ya burst, 18 kinds of meat, roast pineapple, black beans and rice, and a good salad bar. And..... Guarnanana the most highly naturally cafinenated bevrage in existance.......

But for here and now I'll have the "special"
Thanks all
Gunns

[Anonymous]

Mornin' everybody, its now twixt' and "tween breakfast and lunch, so how about a wedge of that Dutch crumb coffee cake and a cup of hot Joe Tom? Russell and Rob: "You've got mail." Wow ***, I hope it is easier leaving Lybia than entering...regards to the "General." [Think "I'd rather be fishin!"] Al, Sorry I came up with a big "Zip" on LRC, Tom's angle is probably the most sensible. A quick "footnote" to my road trip (Ft. Meade, Md)- -I couldn't depart the area without leaving a small gratuity in the Baltimore Trolley Musem "hope chest." Yes, it is bigger and better than ever. Sure glad I was driving (not walking) in the neighborhood though. If any of you gents ever hop off an Amtrak in "Balto," its just around the corner, so please don't miss it. Couldn't do the B & O shed this trip. My esteemed colleagues were more interested in glitzy Harbor Place (upholstered tourist's toilet). No matter, I've got plans for a future "railroading only" trek.

Its great to have a kindred soul from the Midwest among this worthy consortium in the personage of "Trainnut 484" (Russell). Predjudice? Who, me?[;)] Speaking of "4-8-4," is it just me, or is the Northern Class a particular favorite among Parks here and in Canada? Oh oh, I see "I've got mail" and from "one of own." Please excuse me for just a "mo," while I dispatch the business at hand. Shall return a.s.a.p., hopefully, with more substance than sauce. Happy Tuesday all, Oh Tom, Boris may fini***he pastry if he wishes...probably will anyhow. TED

[siberianmo]

TUESDAY SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)

Another broiling hot day here in mid-continent USA, but it’s Tuesday – one day closer to that middle of the week! Hope this morning finds all of our customers doing and feeling well. [tup] [;)]

Still no word regarding Chris and I’ve begun some checks of the Montreal papers just to see …
…
If you want his last Email address (not the one used for the forums) contact me and I’ll provide it.

Not much in the news department these days ….. other than to say we’re going to have to begin posting the Legion of the Lost a bit more often – some of our Regulars are not so regular. Even noted that while we were “up” during the Birthday Bash - saw some familiar names on the forums - but no posts here! Hmmmmmmmm. [%-)]

Should remind everyone that July 1st is Canada Day – so let’s not forget to wish our cousins to the north – Happy Holiday! In a nutshell, here’s what the day is all about for Canadians:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canada will celebrate 138 years since Confederation on July 1st, 2005.

The holiday, formerly referred to as Dominion Day, First of July, Confederation Day, and July the 1st, celebrates the events occurring on July 1st, 1867. That is when the British North American Act created the Canadian federal government. The Act (BNA) proclaimed “one Dominion under the name of Canada,” therefore the original name for the holiday, “Dominion Day.” On October 27, 1982, by an Act of Parliament, the holiday was renamed “Canada Day,” in order to remove emphasis on Canada’s origin as a British colony.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a Canadian-American family, we fly both flags in front of our home on that day, as well as other Canadian national holidays. Of course, Old Glory flies every day - up in the morning and down in the evening. [tup]

To the SUMMARY

QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 27 Jun 2005, 15:52:18
Just a friendly reminder for those at or soon will be trackside in the summer heat. Be sure to pack alot of bottled water, something to snack on, and a place to get in out of the heat. Have a safe summer .
Take care,
Russell

QUOTE: Theodorebear Posted: 27 Jun 2005, 17:39:53
Hey Trainnut484 (Russell)...well I'll be "Hornswaggled, blued and tatoo'ed" (Yosemity Sam) if you ain't from the same "Union Station!!" Pull up a saddle horn and grab a "brand" you like. Tom (Bar-Keep) will be along soon and give ya "beau howdy." Lived in K.C., Mo. for years (too many) and remember 45 trains a day "in and out." Naturally, I recall AT&SF as a "Mainnstay" but 23 other Roads came through those weird sheds too. Give everybody a K.C. "howdy" and when you've a mind to listen; I'll tell you all about Union Station from the "Massacre" to the day I got lost in the Harvey House Ladies' Room. Russ, be prepared...these guys are "heavy weights!"[

Thanks for the e-mails Tom. They are always helpful. TED

QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 27 Jun 2005, 19:24:13
Theodorebear (Ted),
thanks for the howdy. When the barkeep can do it, I'll take a Miller Lite. I'm always good for great stories. Email me when your due in old "cow town".
Take care,
Russell

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 Jun 2005, 20:19:18
[#welcome] Russell -Trainnut484! First drink 'round here is on the house

So, you and Ted know one another .... that will help you get acquainted with "Our" Place a bit easier. Always helps to have someone show you the ropes, so to speak.

Nothing complex about this cyber bar 'n grill - just check out the first page, go from there and to save yourself some time, when the SUMMARIES show up, they will provide you with the updates needed to play catch up .......

We have a good core of regulars at this bar of ours and the conversations range from Classic Trains to all kinds of train related and other stuff. Again, check out the SUMMARIES and you'll get the idea!

Speaking of summer heat, we are located alongside the main lines of the Can-Am Railroadand there are lots of reasons to stop off - air conditioning being just one.

So, ready for 'nother one [?]
Tom, Proprietor

QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 27 Jun 2005, 21:54:14
Siberianmo (Tom),
thanks for the welcome. For someone who's been around the forums for a while, it's good to have a place to sit down, open a cold one, and enjoy great conversation . Hopefully I'll get to meet the others soon.
Take care,
Russell

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 27 Jun 2005, 23:10:33
Good evening everyone. Tom I'll have a glass of water and a water cress sandwich (your the one who wanted me to order something} Ted Hey glad to see you made it back mostly in one piece. I've often said never again to reunions but find myself normally suggesting the next one. Gunn's I'd go for a modern metal (prefab) building/ engine house think pike stuff mr type engine sheds. They are easy to maintain and heat / cool etc. A pit or elevated inspection plat form is essential. Our museum can't believe it went as long as it did before we put in "the pit" Check your local building codes though we wanted to add another pit either to the existing shop building or our new barn 4 which we are starting to build but we 've been told that it can no longer be built so we're a one pit operation. I'd go for a transfer table to shuttle stuff back and forth as well. Of course if price is no option build a full size ten stall brick roundhouse complete with turntable and boiler room. When we built barn two in the late 70's( work barn with pit ) we installed the wood and metal shops in separate fire proof bays attached to the main building. Trust me with the winters here we are glad that all our maintenance eggs are in the same basket. That's it for now folks talk to you all tomorrow. Rob

Hey Boris, dip down in the fi***ank and see if we have any of those water cress’ left! [}:)]
Tom

QUOTE: wrwatkins Posted: 28 June 2005, 05:20:34
Good morning Ya'all. Greetings from downtown Tripoli Libya. Did not think I would have access to a computer here, but the hotel Corinthia has three for guests. Wait your turn and you can log on and play. The connection is a dialup so Itend to get a little frustrated.

I will give you a little travel log. Flew from London Heathrow to Trpioli on Sunday. You need visas to enter Libya and they are almost impossible to get. We did have a fax from the Chairman of the Management Committee of National Oil Corp. stating that the visas would be issued at the airport in Tripoli. The problem was that British Air will be fined $10,000 for transporting someone here without a visa. The airline wants a letter from immigration stating that a visa would be issued upon arrival. We did not have this and after an hour of BA calling several people in Libya we got a guarantee by NOC that they would be personally responsible for us. Then we got our boarding passes for the flight.

Arriving in Tripoli we had to give up our passports for an hour while they went "somewhere" to have the visas issued. We finally got them and went through three metal detectors and xray machines before getting out of the airport. Our driver was there to meet us and took u to the Corinthia hotel, which is a 5 star hotel. Beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sean and the harbor. The bad thing is that not one railroad track was visable except for the track for the unloading crane on the dock. The area is a desert! Lots of sand and rock, a few palm trees, and grass only where it is watered which is not too frequent. The Libyans are very friendly and cordial people and i do not have any fear for my personal safety. I am not going to venture into the Casbah or Souk. Very little police presence so I assume violence is very limited. The country is a Moslem country and there is NO booze of any kind! When I get back, Tom, will you pour me a very stiff triple. I need to make up for lost time. Food in the hotel is good and you can get oriental, ethnic, Italian, and American food. Have cable television with the majority of the channels being from the US (Discovery, CNN, TCM, Disney, etc). The English language programs has Arabic subscripts.

All for now. It is time for lunch then to a meeting with the American affairs officer (substitute for an ambassador as our relations with Libya have not progressed as far as full diplomatic recognition).

It is hot, dry, and very sunny here. Trying to keep in the shade and cool as possible.
Cheers,
***

Nice of you to think of us from half a world away! [tup] Any chance of getting some railroading in while you are there [?} On second thought, perhaps it would be safer to look at ‘em rather than ride ‘em. … Your drink will be waiting upon your return ……. [;)] And oh, [yeah] we’re still wondering about your Birthday Bash – when do you want to celebrate it [?] [swg]
Tom

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 28 June 2005, 07:24:40
Good Morning All Too lazy to address the forum yesterday so will start with a strong coffee and maybe a croissant.
*** that sounds like a fantastic trip you are on and hope you will be able to give us a run down on the Libya Rail system when you return.
I want to thank the forum readers for the help they have given me on my book project. I have all of the ACELA info except for dates they entered service.
I received all of the info on the Tempo Equipment except for the all important entry into service dates.
Still looking for the info on the LRC cars I have the power rosters and descriptions but need the car numbers types and capacities along with dates they entered service. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Still no word from Chris will contact you off the forum will if necessary have a friend in Montreal do some checking for us.

passengerfan Al Your Email was received and replied to regarding the Rendezvous …….. Hot coffee and croissant comin’up …….. Regarding LRC cars, I’ve had limited success contact VIA Rail directly and they’ve referred me to others who have specific info on a given subject. You may want to try that. Just communicate with them at their customer service Email address on the www.viarail.ca web site. ….. Regarding Chris see my comments in the opening remarks of this SUMMARY.

Enjoy the day, all! [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place

[passengerfan]

Good Morning All To lazy to address the forum yesterday so will start with a strong coffee and maybe a croissant.
*** that sounds like a fantastic trip you are on and hope you will be able to give us a run down on the Libya Rail system when you return.
Iwant to thank the forum readers for the help they have given me on my book project. I have all of the ACELA info except for dates they entered service.
I received all of the info on the Tempo Equipment except for the all important entry into service dates.
Still looking for the info on the LRC cars I have the power rosters and descriptions but need the car numbers types and capacities along with dates they entered service. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Still no word from Chris will contact you off the forum will if necessary have a friend in Montreal do some checking for us.

[Anonymous]

Good morning Ya'all. Greetings from downtown Tripoli Libya. Did not think I would have access to a computer here, but the hotel Corinthia has three for guests. Wait your turn and you can log on and play. The connection is a dialup so i tend to get a little frustrated.

I will give you a little travel log. Flew from London Heathrow to Trioli on Sunday. You need visas to enter Libya and they are almost impossible to get. We did have a fax from the Chairman of the Management Committee of National Oil Corp. stating that the visas would be issued at the airport in Tripoli. The problem was that British Air will be fined $10,000 for transporting someone here without a visa. The airline wants a letter from immigration stating that a visa would be issued upon arrival. We did not have this and after an hour of BA calling several people in Libya we got a guarantee by NOC that they would be personally responsible for us. Then we got our boarding passes for the flight.

Arriving in Trioli we had to give up our passports for an hour while they went "somewhere" to have the visas issued. We finally got them and went through three metal detectors and xray machines before getting out of the airport. Our driver was there to meet us and took u to the Corinthia hotel, which is a 5 star hotel. Beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sean and the harbor. The bad thing is that not one railroad track was visable except for the track for the unloading crane on the dock. The area is a desert! Lots of sand and rock, a few palm trees, and grass only where it is watered which is not too frequent. The Libyans are very friendly and cordual people and i do not have any fear for my personal safety. I am not going to venture into the casbah or souk. Very little police presence so I assume violance is very limited. The country is a Moslem country and there is NO booze of any kind! When I get back, Tom, will you pour me a very stiff triple. I need to make up for lost time. Food in the hotel is good and you can get oriental, ethnic, italian, and American food. Have cable television with the majority of the channels being from the US (Discovery, CNN, TCM, Disney, etc). The English language programs has Arabic subscripts.

All for now. It is time for lunch then to a meeting with the American affairs officer (substitute for an ambassador as our relations with Libya have not progressed as far as full dilomatic recognition).

It is hot, dry, and very sunny here. Trying to keep in the shade and cool as possible.

Cheers,
***

[trolleyboy]

Good evening everyone. Tom I'll have a glass of water and a water cress sandwich [:D] (your the one who wanted me to order something} Ted Hey glad to see you made it back mostly in one piece. I've often said never again to reunions but find myself normally suggesting the next one.[banghead]Gunn's I'd go for a modern metal (prefab) building/ enginehouse think pikestuff mr type engine sheds. They are easy to maintain and heat / cool etc. A pit or elevated inspection plateform is essential. Our museum can't beleave it went as long as it did before we put in "the pit" Check your local building codes though we wanted to add another pit either to the existing shope building or our new barn 4 which we are starting to build but we 've been told that it can no longer be built [banghead]so we're a one pit operation.I'd go for a transfer table to shuttle stuff back and forth as well. Of coarse if price is no option build a full size ten stall brick roundhouse complete with turntable and boiler room When we built barn two in the late 70's( workbarn with pit ) we installed the wood and metal shops in separate fire proof bays attached to the main building.Trust me with the winters here we are glad that all our mainyenance eggs are in the same basket. That's it for now folks talk to you all tomorrow. Rob

[Trainnut484]

QUOTE: Originally posted by siberianmo

[#welcome] Russell -Trainnut484! First drink 'round here is on the house [tup] [swg]

So, you and Ted know one another .... [tup] that will help you get acquainted with "Our" Place a bit easier. Always helps to have someone show you the ropes, so to speak.

Nothing complex about this cyber bar 'n grill - just check out the first page, go from there and to save youself some time, when the SUMMARIES show up, they will provide you with the updates needed to play catch up ....... [;)]

We have a good core of regulars at this bar of ours and the conversations range from Classic Trains to all kinds of train related and other stuff. Again, check out the SUMMARIES and you'll get the idea!

Speaking of summer heat, we are located alongside the main lines of the Can-Am Railroad and there are lots of reasons to stop off - air conditioning being just one. [swg]

So, ready for 'nother one [?]
Tom, Proprietor

Siberianmo (Tom),
thanks for the welcome. For someone who's been around the forums for a while, it's good to have a place to sit down, open a cold one, and enjoy great conversation [:)]. Hopefully I'll get to meet the others soon.

Take care,

Russell

[siberianmo]

[#welcome] Russell -Trainnut484! First drink 'round here is on the house [tup] [swg]

So, you and Ted know one another .... [tup] that will help you get acquainted with "Our" Place a bit easier. Always helps to have someone show you the ropes, so to speak.

Nothing complex about this cyber bar 'n grill - just check out the first page, go from there and to save youself some time, when the SUMMARIES show up, they will provide you with the updates needed to play catch up ....... [;)]

We have a good core of regulars at this bar of ours and the conversations range from Classic Trains to all kinds of train related and other stuff. Again, check out the SUMMARIES and you'll get the idea!

Speaking of summer heat, we are located alongside the main lines of the Can-Am Railroad and there are lots of reasons to stop off - air conditioning being just one. [swg]

So, ready for 'nother one [?]
Tom, Proprietor

[Trainnut484]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Theodorebear

Hey Trainnut484 (Russell)...well I'll be "Hornswaggled, blued and tatoo'ed" (Yosemity Sam) if you ain't from the same "Union Station!!" Pull up a saddle horn and grab a "brand" you like. Tom (Bar-Keep) will be along soon and give ya "beau howdy." Lived in K.C., Mo. for years (too many) and remember 45 trains a day "in and out." Naturally, I recall AT&SF as a "Mainnstay" but 23 other Roads came through those weird sheds too. Give everybody a K.C. "howdy" and when you've a mind to listen; I'll tell you all about Union Station from the "Massacre" to the day I got lost in the Harvey House Ladies' Room. Russ, be prepared...these guys are "heavy weights!"[[^]

Thanks for the e-mails Tom. They are always helpful. TED

Theodorebear (Ted),
thanks for the howdy. When the barkeep can do it, I'll take a Miller Lite. I'm always good for great stories. Email me when your due in old "cow town".

Take care,

Russell