QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 15:10:38 earlydiesels Dan has just reported that he will be 43 on June 24th ..... REVISED 2005 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST: March 5th (Nick – 45) - May 18th (Tom - 67) – June 24th (Dan - 43) - July 15th (*** – 65) - July 25th (Chris - 51) - August 16th (Ted - 67) - September 8th (Rob - 34) Calling Party Coordinator Nick Calling Party Coordinator Nick .......... Hey Boris, c'mon out of your shed and go find Nick [swg] Nice to have another regular on board with the Birthday program [tup] [yeah] Tom
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 16:23:05 Tom, Hi- First, an apology- I had intended no slight on the Can-Am, which I wouldn`t presume to alter in any way- The paragraph was for Dennis & Jeri but poor sentence constuction masked my intentions, right that’s sorted- Drinks for all!! Just popped in for a couple of quickies whilst Herself is out counting bats ( honest )- found Boris down the road being restrained by Insp. Cliwliss,muttering "Master say find" over & over- Ah I see- the 24th -Friday week --MIDSUMMERS DAY--a most auspicious night for natal revels--the culmination of the Beltane festival in pagan times ( and still a pretty fair knees-up in these parts, the Celtic heritage and all that. ah she returns, back later nick
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 16:40:26 Nick Must have just missed you - anyway, thanx for being on top of the situation. The 24th, being a Friday, means we shouldn't have too much difficulty putting things together. Given that it's Pizza Night 'round here on Fridays, I'll create several Birthday Pizza's [yeah] that should work [tup] Of course, you as the Chief Chef [C=:-)] have your own options and I'm not about to stand in your way ...... go for it! [tup] [swg] Boris Done good - as he would say.[swg] Your comments regarding the RR could just have easily applied to the Can-Am - so why not [?][;)] Now, earlydiesels Dan YOU are the MAN on the 24th -- plan to be here. [tup] Been very quiet 'round here this Wednesday ........ See ya! Tom
QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 20:10:40 Evening Tomand the gang, and a special get well to Chris.. Dave from the left coast , lets see....Johnny Walker Black Label sounds about right. So far a typical week , my CO as usual is in fine form, suggesting I resign my position and attend open mike night at the local comedy club, not that his orders were particulary amusing, just the rationale behind them or lack thereof. Is it just me or have others encountered some scruffy UP power of late. On my TDY to Vegas most UP power looked like death warmed over. The BNSF seems to know to clean power. I've been working for quite some time scanning over 400 negatives onto disc. These included N&W Alco High Hoods working Blueridge and my first railroad photo Sou 4501 also shot somewhere in Virginia. The bulk is Cajon Pass from the early 80s and the commute operations in SF during SP times but there is the unusual, UP DD35 A/Bs taken in Utah and on Cajon pass in the snow, lots of Rio Grande and a smattering of Western Pacific. Its amazing how I can recall each trip with clear detail all these years later. For the record my Birthday was May 27, I don't brag about it too much, I'm a quiet, unassuming hermit at heart. I'm feeling generous, whatever the gang is partaking in and how about I cover for some good Prime Rib as well, cooked to order with all the trimmings Until later Dave
QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 21:10:32 Good Evening All, Just time for Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house. I have been doing some digging through old files I have been trying to find more information on the Columbine and Portland Rose. I guess because the UP was not my primary area of interest I never looked for or gathered information on them. Ask me something simple like the Exposition Flyer and I have volumes on that train. I am beginning to discover that I need to turn my attention to the older heavyweight trains of the twenties and thirties and the cars operated in those trains. I have thousands of pages of information on the streamliners and only a few hundred on the heavyweights. I also went digging for information on the Dominion and found that the high speed express boxcar and monitor roof cars pulled by the Selkirk in the Dominion photo mentioned earlier could have been taken as late as 1953. Both types of cars were still painted solid Maroon and not unusual to see in the Dominion even after they were supplemented with the Budd cars in their consists. The CPR undertook a rebuilding program on many of their clerestory roof heavyweight cars when the installed complete air they looked like monitor roof cars and many had sealed windows installed at the same time flush with the car sides so were actually considered modernized heavyweights. Some of these cars were in service as late as the early 1960's. I really need to start digging for information on the heavyweight trains. I have even found out my local state museum lacks a lot of information on this period as well. Certain railroads heavyweight eras are well covered and information is readily available while many others there are great gaps in the information. If anyone out there has that type of information let your local historical societies know. It is important to get everything documented as less and less is available each year. Might as well join the B'day club I will be 63 next April. I tell the wife that would be a very good vintage for a wine she says in my case it would be vinegar! By the way my railfan weekend last week plans fell through at the last minute so I'm not going to plan ahead the next time just take off and go. Well must run for now.
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 23:12:24 Hello. I trust everyone is well tonight. passengerAl Have you checked in with the CP and CN lines sig groups they may give you a bit more passenger car info. The TH&B sig group will give you some CPR and NYC/MC info as well since the TH&B was owned by both railways. Ted I sent you an e-mail but seeing as you are having the difficulties you were with Verizon, drop me an e-mail with your new address and I'll resend. Well folks I'm in for an early evening tonight I'll pop by later. Rob
QUOTE: On any given day, any team can beat any other
QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 15 Jun 2005, 23:53:40 Well since I'm still hanging around set em up again and I agree with you Tom about the Gin and Tonic being a nice summer drink. Friend of mine drinks nothing but Tangeray says there is no other. Trolleyboy My collection of information on CN and CP lightweight and heavyweight passenger equipment is very extensive. I also have very good coverage of the old Newfoundland Narrow Gauge and Ontario Northland. Even my TH&B isn't bad but where I'm lacking on your side of the border is on the old PG&E passenger equipment before the RDC's came along. I have reasonable coverage of the QNS&L as well. On the US side I have excellent coverage on all lightweight streamlined cars I have good heavyweight coverage on GN NP SP&S SP and AT&SF in the far west but need UP WP. I also have good heavyweight info on the D&RGW but not the narrow gauge. The CB&Q I have lots of heavyweight info on but find I need the info on just about all the other granger roads. The Southwestern Roads could use heavyweight info on. The Southeast is lacking as is the Northeastern roads heavyweights.. Have pretty good info on the New England heavyweights. I guess I am just going to have to sit down and contact all of the societies and museums. I have found many in the past to be helpful and have purchased books they publish from several. I am rather surprised at the lack of UP info on heavyweights as they operated so many trains. Well must think about some shut eye and give my heavyweight library some more thought.
QUOTE: Bobfarkus Posted: Today, 07:58:00 Top-o-the Marnin' to one and all. I'd planned to drop in last night but some maintenance on me e-mail account came up. Sure and it took me an hour just to find out who I really am! "Saints presarve us," if I ain't gettin' weary of baby sittin' software! Tom, I'll be havin' a Jameson's with a splash of Vernor's Gingeryale, if ya please. 'Tis the only way I can put this Oirish brogue to rest...curse of me Mither's ancestry, don't ya know. Thank ye kindred soul. Say, it's as quiet as a Packard agency after the "crash of 29" hereabouts. If there are no objections, I'd like to put a few slugs in the Junk Juke Box? I have a yearning for Ella Fitzgerald singing "Take the 'A' Train" with the Count Basie Band at Birdland. It reminds me of my days off in N.Y.C. while working in the Catskill Mtns. area. Sometimes, I would drive down to the Harmon Beacon car ferry, cross the Hudson and grab a N. Y. Central to G.C. Terminal. Oh yes, a bee line to the club car, some shopping in the "City" and return (same day, same club car) draped in a pleasant (if uncognizant) "glow" of contentment[swg] More than once the urge to up-grade my ticket to Canada nearly overcame me. Never had the time! Here, 45 years later, I can finally do something about that "urge" by joining you Gents in Toronto come Spring. [^] Rob, I'll be sending an e-mail tut suit (sp.?"), re: my new "Addy." Hope all is going well with house hunting for both you guys. I know what a drag it is- - having moved "bag bungalow and baggage" 7 times. [C-:-)] Nick, looks like you'll be busy carving the Prime Rib for Dave, so please, "throw" in a end-cut (au jus) for me as well. Tom I've got more on the "Sentimental Journey" coming your way (e-mail), even though its a while before you need it. Hey Boris, lookin' good in your new "whites!" Pluggin' Tom for a raise, eh? Ted
QUOTE: Bobfarkus Posted: Today, 08:06:14 Oh, Bobfarkus [?]? Don't ask me! Its' an old alias I used on other forums but F.Y.I., its really me, Ted.
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 14 Jun 2005, 11:08:07 Good morning everyone, I'll sample your short stack I think Tom thank-you. Tom It was one game once you get passed Roy and the rookie Gustavo you have a better than 50% chance. As it's shaping up a 500 season's the best we can hope for. Jeri&Dennis I like Ted's idea the excursion angle. It will likely work in quite nicely for you. I have to say that you have some nice country out your way, my one sister and her family are living in Colorado Springs at the moment, and are quite enjoying themselves. Well folks I have work this afternoon so I'll bid my farewells for now. Rob
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 14 Jun 2005, 12:21:15 Hi Rob One short stack and a Kokanee coming right up ... Oh, no beer for you with that [?] [swg] Talking baseball, baseball in St. Loo (by the way, NO ONE around these parts refers to our area as St. Loo ... irritates the locals big time.) Now, WHERE was I [?] Oh [yeah] - baseball - the Cardinals are on track for another big win season and unless they suffer some disastrous injuries, it would be hard to imagine them not getting into the playoffs. I don't know much about the Blue Jays other than the records I follow in the standings from time to time. A bit surprised at the low attendance figures too. Whazzup with that [?] Cards have already topped the 3 million mark in advance ticket sales and this area is way smaller than Toronto. [yeah]I know, baseball isn't that big up there, so the saying goes. When the Jays were on the way to those two series championships, times were far better at the turnstiles. Dang it - ring the bell, Boris I'm [#offtopic] again! [:(!] Free drinks everyone [tup] Stop in later and check out the guys trying to lift one end of the pool tables. It's been something to see. Boris went and nailed 'em down – Nick caught him, but only AFTER the track gang had significant voice changes. [}:)] [:-,] By the way, Emailreceived and responded to. Thanx! See ya! [tup] [swg] Tom
QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 14 Jun 2005, 14:56:09 Hello everyone! I'll have something besides an Alexanders, please. Want to try something new- what do you recommend, Tom? Jeri and Dennis-welcome! CLASSIC TRAINS had an article within the past couple of years or so about the COLUMBINE. Lots of neat pix of both interior and exteriors. I have my copy buried somewhere in the den. Seems like several of the regulars are "under the weather". A speedy recovery and a return to better than new condition to all. Now I know why my lower back hurts. Boris nailed the pool tables down! I generally don't have trouble lifting things if they're not permanent. I may have to catch Boris in his shed and run a taut rope around it-revenge, you know! I have heard nothing from the freight rr but I know they are busy and we are still trying to find housing. Our search has been broadened to include some more towns rather than the 2 we were originally researching.
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 14 Jun 2005, 15:21:32 G'day earlydiesels Dan Try a Kokanee, regular or light, a nice brew from BC .... Sorry about those pool tables, but that's Boris - in his own way, he was watching out for me - I think [?] [swg] Don't fret, the high pitched voice will soon return to normal. [}:)] My bride gave me a 3-year subscription to Classic Trains for a birthday gift and I now have two in my collection. They sent me a real nice supplement called Great Train Stations and it is well put together. This 16 page supplement is chock full of some nostalgia for all who appreciate what we do 'round here. Worth the effort in trying to get one. My guess is you'd have to send Kalmbach an Email request through their Classic Trains web site. Enjoy this fine day! [tup] Tom
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 14 Jun 2005, 20:27:34 Good evening everybody, just back from band practice so if you wouldn`t mind speaking up a bit........... Tom-Hi!-you look a little more at ease with the world tonight,-I`ll take full advantage of your offer of free beer- [^]-Never trust a chef who turns down a free drink [swg]on the strict understanding that you join me, We need to change Boris` apron later and proper preparation is essential...... Took the `layout tour` through your album earlier, solved an operational problem for me- where to dispatch traffic from the Purina feed mill in Bradford----Solution-C.P. cars to Can-Am Purina spur in C.P. yard-may well be accompanied by lumber loads for the mill on O.N. flats and newsprint loads in O.N. boxes to the short spur at the extreme right of Union Stn..( I`ll tempt you sooner or later [^]) Right, who else is in- EarlyDan, welcome back. Speaking of backs, sorry about your`s- Boris was supposed to warn all the regulars.....We try, Lord knows we try.....[banghead]........... await further updates with interest Dennis & Jeri, quit fooling around in the booth back there and come and have a drink, Tom, same again please-and better top up the boys--- Now, for a mixed era layout how about having a few signature buildings that can be changed for obviously much later replacements...I guess if you can`t find something with the same footprint you could make a cut-out section-----make spurs and sidings according to the latest (longest) stock likely to be used, try and get photo`s of the same locations at opposite ends of the timeframe- identify whats different and swap and change as the mood takes you...Enjoy! Ted- Hang in there mate, these things will pass-sounds to me like you have Maple Leaf Fever---an uncontrollable urge to breath clean air, ride on interesting trains, see some modeling potential up close and personal, eat interesting food----- Now then, The Schull & Skibbereen Railway Company- A trawl of the library produced only a thumbnail sketch, but the town library has a more comprehensive account. So far I have:-Length 15 1/2 miles, mostly along roadside. gauge-3`00" speed limit 15 mph,2 trains daily, other than market day, often inactive due to engine failure, almost chronically incapable of making a profit, supported by Govt. subsidy. Only photo I have to hand is of engine #4 in 1937 pulling 4 cars. Enough already, be happy folks, nick
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: Today, 00:36:52 Hi all finally able to get back, we took a pounding weather wise today lots wind, rain you know the fare. I'm glad to see you back early, been a while. I have to say house hunting is never fun, I imagine even more so when it's job related. Still it's better than doing a long commute and having to live from a suit case. Not wishing to go too far [#offtopic] but the attendance has been down since the strike never has recovered neither has the team. Not many realize but they won six strait division pennants, including the two world series wins. The big difference was they were owned by Labbatt's at the time, so money was no option (think NY Yankee's type money) After '94 new owners / no money therefore no playoffs, therefore no huge fan support. Lots of other professional sport options in the city as well. Too bad but it's become a big money sport.(charge the next round to me) Lets see trains yes trains I vaguely remember the topic [:D] [:-,][:-^] Continuing with thoughts on large preserved steam in Canada. Tom or anyone the museum of science and technology in Ottawa has a large steam and rail collection streetcars passenger cars etc. And Chris can tell you about the CRHA museum in Delson there’s is a most complete collection of running non running steam electric diesel you name it they probably have it rail collection. Though 6218 is a lost cause restoration wise now it's sister 6219 in Toronto is being worked on. Private and museum money. It's been moved from the exhibition grounds to the roundhouse by union station. rumour has it is that they are aiming at making it run again. I know that CN has shown some interest in following CP's lead with their Royal Hudson, but so far they've not committed to anything. Some people seem to think that they may take over the 6219 project or that they may exercise their option on 5703 (though at the Elgin County Museum CN retained ownership) Time will tell, with CN one never counts the chickens till they have hatched. They may find the need to purchase another railroad before they bring steam back. Still a large CN owned stream excursion train would be nice to see. Well everyone times late so I'll be movin' on. Rob
QUOTE: Ted Kramer Posted: 15 June 2005, 08:34:02 Thanks for the many "get wells," they worked, which is more than I can say for Verizon here lately. I'm unable (recently) to: Forward, Open attachments, or Reply. So, I'm changing e-mail addy to MSN Hot Mail which should show very soon in "Profile." Whew! Tom, now I'm ready for that "Crown" & soda, if you will kind Sir? [C=:-)] Nick, thanks for the "Emerald Isle" up-date. Things haven't changed much for "interrupted" service on the Old Sod. My direct rail "run out" (from Dublin) to Galway found me on a motor coach for the last leg (Ballinasoe?) on into Galway. Pretty country side! If I saw these vistas on a layout, I'd say the Modeler was a Sentimentalist (almost Disney). The auto bus was comfortable, even through the very tight curves and broken hills. BUT, is sure ain't a train! The authorities said this was a "temporary" issue, so I can only think the Line is complete by now (2 years hence). I noticed sections [appx. 40-50']of "pre fab" ties and rail being hoisted here and there by heavy cranes, almost in a "Tin Plate" fashion. I did a "double take," to be sure. Of course, the real "thrill" ride was the Express from Dublin to Belfast![tup] I guarantee you, I have not ridden a train at those speeds since the Super Chief (Chicago to K.C., Mo) many "moons" passed. [:O] I hate to be in a rush, but today is "chock-full-of-chores to catch-up with day". May is fine Tom. If I start packing now it is unlikely I'll overlook much, [tickets, tickets, where the [:(!] are my tickets!) Matah sends regards to all and to Boris in his native {?} tongue. Rob and Tom, what are you guys on about? Look at what we have...the Devil Rays! [swg] So long for now. Ted
QUOTE: wrwatkins Posted: 15 June 2005, 10:55:45 Good morning Y'all. A round of drinks on me. Boris, I will have some Plymouth Gin over ice with a twist. Make it a double or triple. The day so far has been hectic. I mentioned that I never drink before noon and it only is 10:30 in Dallas. Since we are going to Halifax in a couple of months I decided to acclimate to Atlantic Standard Time. It IS 12:30 in Halifax, so Boris pour the gin. Nick-the gasoline price of £0.96 per liter equates to about $6.50 per gallon. And we complain about high gas prices. Europe has been paying high prices for 25+ years or longer-even in the days we were paying $0.35 per gallon. It is a pure taxation situation in Europe. Their refineries are just as efficient as any in the US and they buy their oil from the same sources as us. It is the government getting its last pound of flesh. Better get off my high horse. I have been contributing to a thread on the TRAINS forum called "OIL" where I let off a little steam. The Plymouth has mellowed me and I am calmer now. Tom-Glad that you are back in the saddle again. You mentioned the Emerald Isle which is Ireland. There is a second one that I like. In Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe there is the only island in the lake called-you guessed it-Emerald Isle. There is a stone tea house on the isle. It was built by the lumber tycoon who built Vikingsholm at the end of Emerald Bay. All Scandanavian motif including a grass roof. It is now a state park. A few miles north of Emerald Bay was the terminus of the railroad from Trukee to Lake Tahoe. It ended at a place called Tahoe Tavern, which now is a resort/condo community. Unfortunately the line was removed in the '50s and part has been turned into a hike and bike trail. We love Lake Tahoe. If we could afford to buy a home there we would be gone in a flash. Alas we have to settle for a visit every couple of years. The last time we were there was for my wife's birthday on April 22 a few years ago. On the day we were flying back we went to Trukee for breakfast. This is a railroad town and we ate in a restaurant across from the rail yards. The whole town is across the street from the rail yards! While there it started to snow and we watched the railroad crews load up the rotary snow plow and left town with it. I guess things were a little worse at Donner pass. Sorry we did not get to see it in operation. All for now. ***
QUOTE: For one and all – Boris is NOT a bartender – that’s MY job! The ONLY time I permit him behind the bar is when we are in real bad case of extremis, which for you land lubbers means: between a rock and a hard spot – no matter what you do, you’re in big trouble! [tdn] So, don’t enourage Boris, okay? Geesh! [swg] Now we DO have substitute bartenders, Cindy on weekends and of course, our four gals Thursday – Friday and Saturday nights. So, as long as we keep Boris in the kitchen or in his shed, all’s well at “Our” Place. [swg] [;)]
QUOTE: coalminer3 Posted: 13 June 2005, 09:59:24 Good Morning All: Coffee as usual, please. I enjoyed reading passengerfan's comments re power assignments. Here's some more to consider. Power assignments on the C&O varied according to length of train, terrain, etc. as other posters have suggested. For example. mixed trains on the Hot Springs Branch usually got a geep; interesting trains they were, too - where else could you get an 11 DB sleeper running behind a bunch of coal cars? The Louisville section of the George Washington usually got one E unit with a combine, coaches (2 generally), a sleeper, and a tavern lounge. More power and cars were added at Ashland and the train usually had three Es for the run to Charlottesville where it was broken up. The Newport News section got a geep and 3 cars (generally) while the Es and everything else ran on to Washington. Fascinating stuff to watch all the switching and shuffling that happened at both Ashland & Charlottesville. In the days when Amtrak ran F40s through here, the rule of thumb was one F40 for 10 cars; they really lugged on the Mountain Sub. The N&W generally operated the "Pocahontas" with a pair of GP9s, although they did run Es back "in the day." IIRC, there was an article about N&W passenger service in MR not too long ago. The Southern usually had four Es on the "Crescent" with 15-16 cars. The Southern, of course, snakes all over the place, and there are some tough grades between Atlanta and Birmingham which people usually don't think about. The L&N ran two Es on the Pan American (back to back as God intended!) They had all sorts of power changes en route which made for some interesting activity, especially at Nashville. There was also lots of switching activity at Louisville on the days the South Wind ran. The remains of the "Georgian" which at the end was a plug between St. Louis and Atlanta were usually handled by a single E. The train was short; baggage car and snack bar coach. One of my best memories of this train was the night when we left Nashville at about 3 a.m. with a baggage car full of huskies (see, the mascot could ride back then). The guy who was traveling with them got virtually no sleep as he went forward to check on them at every station stop. Dogs and handler arrived in good shape at Atlanta. Ted D Kramer's comments on the B&O were on target. I will add to his remarks that there's nothing like winter in WV. As they used to say up home, "Your BVDs and pipes all freeze." Last for CFournier - glad you are feeling better. We see and deal with many lung problems in this part of the country - no fun. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Have a good day. work safe
QUOTE: wrwatkins Posted: 13 June 2005, 10:41:02 Good morning Y'all. Boris, could I have a big cup of coffee. If you have any Blue Mountain I will take that. Chris-Glad that you are recovering well and by now you should be out of the hospital. Lung problems can be severe. I never had pneumothorax (spelling??) and hope I never have it. Had garden variety viral pneumonia a couple of times, but have bounced back from it without any problems. Jamaican Blue is great coffee. Once bought 1/4 pound of it for $12.50 at Central Market in Dallas. It was good, but we could not distingui***he extra cost for it over any other premium coffee costing about 1/4 of what Jamaican Blue costs. Our quarter pound was a double purchase-our first and last. I too dabble in model trains. My first set was a post war 1946 Lionel freight set. Added several cars and stuff over the year and finally gave the set to my son as it would be durable for the grand children to try to destroy. Now have the fun of buying cars and locomotives on eBay for presents. While in high school went into HO. Bought a little, but living in California then Texas where houses are built on slabs could not have a permanent layout. Several years ago got into LGB G gauge. As my eye sight deteriorates with age I had to go to a scale that I could see. Have about 35 cars and 5 locomotives that I put around the tree at Christmas (not all of it). The remaining 50 weeks of the year it resides in the garage cabinet. That is why I call it the GC Railway. During my stay on the DART board I got interested in a new scale - 1:1 as I was watching over DARTS rail operations including the commuter line. At least I could see this gauge. No, I have not bought any of this gauge, although I have a few artifacts around the yard. My most recent acquisition was one of the old keystone shaped cast iron whistle signs from the Pennsylvania railroad. Told my wife it would look nice in the yard showing the "W" as that is our initial (George and me). A quick story about another acquisition. DART was abandoning (converting from closed down Katy line to light rail) and I was given one of the single light target signals that was in Highland Park (suburb of Dallas that Dallas completely surrounds). I verified that there was no future use for the signal and it had negative salvage value as I did not want to visit the iron hotel for misusing my position as a board member. When the signal was laid down on the ballast it must of had a chemical reaction with the ballast. The target, which on top of the pole looked about 18" is diameter. After the chemical reaction it swelled til it was 4 1/2 feet in diameter. Took it to our lake house where I installed it along the road. Wired it up so it could be turned on in all three aspects. Needless to say I received all kinds of grief from my wife about having the signal. Now to the punch line. DART was purchasing 1000 new buses for about $250,000 each. The old buses that were being replaced would be sold at auction and fetch $1-2,000 on a good day. My wife was aware of this transaction and the auction. One day at lunch while at home two current DART buses pulled up along side of our house and parked. It turned out that the buses were on charter to the school and got lost getting to the school one block away. My wife saw them and asked what they were doing here. I simply replied: "Remember the signal!" For about 5 seconds she thought I had bought two old buses then she realized that even I would not be that stupid. We still have a good laugh over this on occasion. All for now, Cheers, ***
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 13 June 2005, 10:51:23 Good morning everyone. I'll have a quick brunch before I go to work (no Boris , no beer for me this time thanks) Ted Thank's for the tid bit, it's interesting how similar the smaller interurban's were like in both countries. I can think of two in Ontario like the one you have described. The Hamilton and Grimsby which ran Hamilton to Grimsby a 20 mile up and back type operation, and the Hamilton and Brantford. Both were owned by Dominion Electric ( now Ontario hydro) they ran from the early teens 1915-16 to the early forties. All wood over steel cars but they had railway or clerestory roofs. Both ran express motors for mail which from what I understand was a main source of income with the CNR handling the fruit traffic which was (is) the main agricultural staple in the area. An interesting side bar is that my subdivision in Brantford is built beside the old Brantford barge canal (Mohawk waterway) if I walk up to the embankment three hundred yards from my house I can wander along the old Brantford and Hamilton ROW. Surprisingly i didn't know what this was when we moved in. Any way work beckons so I'm off for now everyone have a good day. Rob
QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 13 June 2005, 13:35:01 Good morning all First my apologies for my lack of manners early this AM . Now its time for a Crown Royal with a water chaser and a round for the house. I was just on my way out the door when I was online earlier and my mind as usual was on passenger trains. My wife says if it came to a choice between her and a passenger trains she thinks she might be in second place. Not So I constantly assure her. I mentioned in my earlier post about leaving anything regarding trains to the Museum and I can't emphasize how important that is. How many times have we known someone with large collection of train memorabilia who passes on and everything goes to the dump. My suggestion is let the museum or historical society sort it out and they will keep whatever they can use and sell the rest for the benefit of the museum. I don't know how many times I have heard of even model railroad collections just tossed after the owner passes. The museums always need support and the donations will benefit many. I honestly even know of a bras locomotive collection numbering over 200 pcs that went to the dump when the owner passed. The kids had no idea what their dad had spent on the hobby and none had an interest in the trains. I contacted one of the family members after about six weeks had passed and almost had a heart attack myself when I heard what had happened to the brass collection. I didn't have the nerve to tell him what they had done. I have it all layed out in my will what will happen to my railroad memorabilia when my time comes and the wife understands as well. It is all going to the California State Railroad Museum. Have any other Our Place regulars thought about their collections when the time comes.
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 13 June 2005, 14:22:17 For: passengerfan Al Crown Royal for you - Crown Royal for me! [yeah]I need it today ....... boy, do I need it. One of those days .......... [banghead] Yes, I've given considerable thought to what happens to my model railroad and railroad memorabilia once I'm gone. The roadmap is there and those close to me have been told ..... Nothing like planning ahead - it's not like the end of the line isn't there for all of us. Why leave these details to those left behind[?] Good subject and even better advice! Thanx .... [tup] [tup] [;)] Tom
QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 13 Jun 2005, 17:34:28 Hi everybody, it’s been a real "sponge" today with dew point in the mid 70 deg. range. Too warm and wet for anything brewed! Tom, how's about fresh soda draped over Resolute Vodka swimming in real ice cubes, a lime twist and two drops of Angostura? I'm not ignoring Boris but his rendition of this order came with shaved ice, (as in "snow cone") and a tiny parasol. Checked into the Honda hybrid (18 month waiting period), so, I may be looking into that Can-Am private car ["too good to be true?"] While boning-up on "above 40" action, I ran into a "love at first sight" CP steam loco: Selkirk type, 2-10-4 [63 in. drivers). In the "snap," she is # 5927 hauling "The Dominion" along the Bow River in Alberta with 13 heavy stds. in tow. I understand this Montreal Locomotive Works genre to be the "largest and heaviest...in the Commonwealth." Any, condescending votes gentlemen? No date given but the Loco's 1938 birth and monitor roofs on cars suggests early 40's. Smashing landscape! In these days of parallel vertical and horizontal lines, the graceful slope of say: CN's #6218, Northern class 4-8-4 (last steam to run) is a sonata to the eyes. I'm told she still runs excursions but no details given. Nick , I meant to ask before about the narrow gauge operations around Skibbereen, Ireland. I was there a couple of years ago and "blew it" for follow-up. If it "rings a bell," maybe some enlightenment? It is approaching the dinner hour and I had best perform this duty at home lest the thawed Cornish game hens (these 4 days) turn into the stuff of: "in aspic." I bid one and all a pleasant sleep with dreams of a rail journey somewhere, sometime. Ted
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 13 Jun 2005, 19:15:59 Hi Ted One of my favorite summer drinks is plain and simple Gin & Tonic with a twist of lime, tall glass of course. Back in another time and different life, I used to enjoy those while sweltering in the summer's heat. Really acquired a taste for Gin during my trips to the Caribbean ....... [yeah] Email received and replied to ........ Thanx [tup]The Rendezvous plans are progressing nicely and I'll have my update included in the 'morrow's SUMMARY. Glad you checked out the Honda Civic Hybrid. Carol is really pleased with hers. We were fortunate that at the time we looked, there were two on the lot - that was in September 2004. Did you know that there are $2k write offs from your Federal adjusted gross income for purchases of hybrid cars? That made our decision even easier ..... Waiting list, now that gasoline prices are on most people's minds, was sure to follow. Isn't that the way? The subject of higher gasoline prices in America is a story unto itself. Most people I know haven't the foggiest idea of what Europeans have been paying for years - much higher than in the states. Also, each year when we go "home" to Nova Scotia, it is evident that those prices at the pumps need to be multiplied by 3.3 in order to convert from litres to gallons (I think that's right .....) thereby making gas much higher than here. I read somewhere that we pay more for a gallon of this or that, compared to what we pay for gasoline. For example: bottled water - soda pop - mouthwash - milk - beer - etc. Just think about it ....... Okay, I'm [#offtopic] - ring the bell, Boris DRINKS ON THE HOUSE! [yeah] Enjoy your evening. [swg] Tom
QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 13 Jun 2005, 20:03:54 Just time for a quick hello and I'll have my usual and a round for the house. Ted that picture you have of a Selkirk pulling an all heavyweight Dominion could just as easily have been taken in the late 1940's or even up to about 1953. The Selkirks were good power and I believe there are at least two preserved ones in Calgary and the other in Ottawa. Their may even be one at Delson I'm not sure about that one. Your mention of 6218 brings back many fond memories. Rode on several excursions behind the 6218 and chased the train one winter weekend after a fresh snow fall the night before. Got some great slides and a winter cold that was tough to shake but was well worth it. I will have to look for my slides on 6218 as my daughter was allowed in the cab and even blew the whistle. But not her Pop he had to stand on the platform and just watch. Did get into Spadina Roundhouse where she was kept and got slides there. Had a friend that gave me access to Spadina Roundhouse and the coach yard. The friend even arranged for me to get some CN china off a business car they were scrapping at Spadina Still have a full set. Well must close for now if I want dinner i was just told.
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 13 Jun 2005, 20:31:52 Well good evening Tom,gentlemen all, and [#welcome] Jeri, A rare pleasure to have a Lady in our midst. A partner who shares our hobby (as opposed to the more usual amused tolerance ) is truly a pearl beyond price. Tom-I`ll take a "cold one" from the back fridge, a large one for yourself (you look as though you`ve earned it !) and a round for the stools, also I`ll try your choice of cold meat sub with a scoop from the pickle jar and a side of Chefs salad,assuming Boris hasn`t touched it- By the way,why is our pet genetic curio nailing the pool tables to the floor ? The only response I could get was "Master say do" . E-Mail received, will respond tomorrow when clarity of thought returns. So, to business, Chris-familiar with O.N. units mentioned,not a great success in the frozen north-designed to run in the somewhat balmier climes of south-west Europe on the Trans Europe Express services, and then with an onboard engineer (tech. support, not driver)-also brakes operated at 225 lbs PSI (I think ) as opposed to std 180 and various other compatibility problems- current Northlander works with G.P.38-2, converted "B" unit for train heat plus 3 cars- not a formation you see every day of the week. Hope you are progressing towards full recovery-as a blues fan I`m sure you are familiar with -"Been down so god-*** long, you know it feels like up to me"....... Al, wise words- I shudder to think how much irreplaceable information has been consigned to landfill over the years, to say nothing of landmark layouts that have felt the bite of the Husquvana chain-saw......a sobering thought- Tom ,same again all round plus a small shandy for Boris,.....thank you. Rob- No wonder you suffered bruising from the lovely Heather, those beach front tattoo parlours are notorious for poor quality work [:-,] Coalminer3,-recall the article on N&W pass ops, some good stuff on both train formations and switching of cars mid journey as I recall-love the sound of that "car on the back of a coal-haul" working-nice one! Ted- Why buy a Honda ?..-for the same money you can have the entire Rover production line including tools, plant & workforce...R.E. Mattah`s Hungarian banquet, would she prefer gnocci or dumplings with the main course........In your quest for large wheels, have you considered Sir Daniel Gooch`s 96" 4-2-2 broad gauge `Iron Duke` class from 1847-62 m.p.h,London to Bristol-with 100 tons of 6-wheel stock with tallow greased bearings on the hook-with two wooden blocks on the front tender wheels as the only brakes. as to the Schull & Skibereen, will need to do some homework,stay tuned ......Right,enough from the overseas desk, back to you guys, moonlight mile for me, take care, nick
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 13 Jun 2005, 20:40:01 Update on gas prices-we are currently paying approx £0.96 per litre, nick
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 13 Jun 2005, 23:02:24 Good evening everyone. I'll have a crown Boris thanks so much. Nick Yeah it was the tattoo parlour at least believe that. [;)] Gas here is 0.87 CDN a litre. Ted The Selkirk's were the biggest steamers in the dominion. Unhappily the only large steamer still doing excursions(regularly at least) is CNR mountain 6060 she's out Calgary way.6218 is still with us but has been cold since 1977 I believe. Her currant whereabouts is the Fort Erie Railway Museum. She's not in very good shape let’s just remember her as she was it's better that way. Of coarse CPR's newly rebuilt Royal Hudson 2816 pulls the Royal Canadian Pacific Tour trains a few times a summer. There are several smaller steamers still plugging away up here but not as many as say 10-15 years ago Well I'm off for now we have more weather headed this way so good night all. Rob
QUOTE: cocolumbine Posted: 14 June 2005, 02:46:49 Hi Guy's! Dennis and I are late risers, so morning is not something we do well. I really like your drinks, no calories, no sugar, and they don't mix with my meds. So, I'll have a Margarita-frozen, if Boris is up to it. Pardon the late hour, but the kids stopped by earlier. Thanks again, passengerfan, I am totally devoted to the luxury passenger trains. I am starting with the COLUMBINE and the Portland Rose. All comments and info. accepted and appreciated. I am still learning about trains, engines, and gauges, so I am like a dry sponge, soaking up anything that comes my way. We are finishing up an inherited N-gauge coffee table layout, then we want to do a layout in our front bedroom in HO. We are still trying to figure out how to transition from the 1890's to 1930' and later, on the same layout. What are your normal hours of operation, or times when the gang is most likely to be hanging around? We will be changing our hours soon , as it looks like we will be moving in a month or so. We need more daylight hours to deal with it which means getting up earlier, -sigh :( . We have a manufactured home that we'll be moving, to its own lot, but they wouldn't allow a basement, which we badly wanted. We'll be out of house and home for at least a month so, must prepare for that. Daylight hours are a necessity. We really appreciate the friendly greetings we've received and are willing to share what knowledge we have or can get. So far we like the reception at "OUR" PLACE, you will see us often. Hell-o *** nice to meet you, it truly is a small world, I am from Corpus Christ, Texas, but grew up near Mathis, TX in a little spot in road called Sweeney Switch( with entering and leaving on both sides of the sign), about 13 miles north of Mathis. Went to George West High School. That was many years ago, and have made Colorado my home since 1968. Dennis is a native of Denver, CO and we love here. Have a good one! COcolumbine and Comechtech Jeri and Dennis.
QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 14 June 2005, 05:53:25 Wow, having a rough night of it. Woke up coughing as if each gasp was my last. No doubt, yet another allergen has been introduced into the mix of swamp gas, pesticides, spores, grass dust, molds, et al. Sudafed, Halls cough drops, raw Florida honey, Rx antibiotic tablets and nasal spray washed down with green tea have managed to add nausea, migraine, dry mouth and post nasal drip to the original malady. [:(!] The only thing for it was turning on the A.C. Voila, fait accompli! [tup] Nick [C=:-)], thanks for remembering Matah's affinity for Slavonic cuisine. I think noodles as an accompaniment rather than gnocci. Matah says potatoes are too fattening...[ahem]. I am a little tepid on the whole matter as I once witnessed Boris in a melee with a gargantuan serving of goulash. First time I saw an entire table cloth employed as a serviette. Not a pretty sight! Count them- -96 " drivers on the "Iron Duke!" Stopping distance must have been nearly half the distance to Bristol, smooooth though. Rover as a choice sounds a lot like Oldsmobile. Think, I'll take a "rain check" in favour of Tom's suggestion on the Can-Am. Another attack like this morning and it will all be immaterial any road. Yes Al, as the Selkirk wasn't scrapped until 1957 (according to text). I was guessing more by the heavy weight standard cars with the older monitor style roof. By the late 1940's, I would assume at least "smooth sides" would've prevailed. Also, the box car just behind the tender appears to be of the 40' ilk, another clue? While on the subject, from what I'm reading it would appear that British Columbia Rwy (a.k.a., P.G.E., BC Rail Ltd.) is Budd R.D.C. heaven? I seem to recall Tom touting that before. I'm really catching CN, CP fever. The only cure may be the "rendezvous" (sometime in the future) also previously mentioned by Tom. Gad, that sounds like fun! [^] Dennis and Jeri, sure can't blame you guys for being "late risers." Say, there is an "angle" for mixing the 1890's with the 1930's. Use the older vintage trains as "Exhibition" or "Excursion" events amid a 30's environment; "two birds with one stone?" Again, it is really "a breath of fresh air" to welcome a member of the distaff to this, otherwise, "moss back, slat sided, Boars Nest."[swg] If at times, our rapport drifts a little to the seamy side; hope all will be forgiven? Some of us are accustomed to sitting in the "smoker's" section of the car and forget our "P's & Q's." Just tell Boris to give the offending party a rap on the knuckles...all will be well. Take care everybody, and "happy rails" to you all. Ted
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