QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 08 June 2005, 14:10:15 Hello everyone. Thanks for all the kind words and support. I appreciate it! I'll take an Alexander’s, please. The contact at the freight RR called last night and we talked for almost an hour. We have been trying to find a house for rent but the town where we are interested in living has a dearth of rental. That seems to be the holdup. Apparently, the assistant trainmaster wishes me to take some training in the town where corporate is and try out the job, the company, and the people before we actually move the 130 some odd miles. That way, the wife won't give up her longtime job with good benefits if I should decide the area or the work is not for me. This guy is really nice-best of all, he seems on the level. Since as a historical demonstration railroad engineer, I've never handled over 6 or 7 cars, this will be a big change. He realizes this and that is the reasoning behind the training at corporate with the most experienced engineer the company has. The logistics of planning this move are boggling my mind. I've been a pro mover before but neither of us have ever lived anyplace but Spfld. The company promises to provide relocation help but the aforementioned housing shortage? is slowing us up. If it is meant to be, it will. Tom, I'm used to sitting in the back-can I move stool #7? The Morant pix are great. I'd go with the first one. The more I visit OUR PLACE, the more I want to visit Canada, but that all goes back to reading RAILROAD magazine beginning at age 7. I actually remember Morant as an Interesting Railfan. Quite a man with a spectacular body of work
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 08 June 2005, 14:26:31 Hello earlydiesels - You ARE early today - so here's your Alexander Keith's finest Pale Ale. Go ahead and move the stool anywhere you'd like. At the end of the day, Boris will get 'em all put back where they belong. [tup] [:)] I'm trying to envision where you are NOW - Springfield, MO, correct? And WHERE will you be ultimately running out of? And for what RR? Well, no matter what, nothing ventured, nothing gained - as the saying goes! Good luck to you. [tup] [:)] Glad you liked those Morant book cover pix - undoubtedly the books are filled with some fine work. Regarding rail travel in Canada, I've never had a reason to complain. My wife and I have been riding VIA Rail (also BC Rail) for about 15 years and have some terrific memories and pix. Helps to have family in Nova Scotia! Anyway, we've made the cross-Canada round trip twice. That's something else indeed. Ever get the chance - do it. Have another ...... [:)] Tom
QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 08 June 2005, 16:06:45 Top of the day Tom and the gang...#8 responding to your S scale project. I read your post in the Model RR section, sounds like a plan! I of course model to scale set in the mid 1920s period which can be daunting due to no available steam that is correct for SP. I'm kinda out of luck at the moment as I could use one more 2-6-0 kit which won't be in stock until December. I do enjoy the swaps for raiding used American Flyer for future scale conversions, speaking of AF, once upon a time they produced a semi-scale SP shorty Vanderbuilt tender, if you ever run across one could you be so kind as to pass the info along? Now to the recap my previous postings: To those who responded favorably to my PE preservation update, I was glad to share the current efforts going on to preserve its history. Quite a bit of the PE remains if one knows where to look and there are serious discussions ongoing pertaining to reconstructing parts it in downtown and the port area to draw the tourist trade dollars. Several weeks ago I spent some time trackside with a group of good friends, Arriving at my hotel at 4 am after a nine hour drive from LA, this after being on duty the previous 14 days, man i'm beat, thank god for Ensure! Meeting the gang for breakfast was like old home week. Some of these muggs I've not seen in 22 years. We made our way to the former location of Stockton Tower. The morning started out slow but traffic eventually improved. As I stood there, it occurred to me I don't know squat nor do I care to know squat about modern railroading, I couldn't tell you the difference between a SD80MAC and a 2005 Audi! Nevertheless I was intrigued by the foreign power from CSX and NS that rolled by. Suffice to say UP and BNSF push some traffic through here. I observed 15 BNSF and 12 UP movements plus Amtrak in six hours. Not to shabby! I remember when SP,SF and WP ruled the manned tower junction with BN and UP being foreign visitors. My love of classic railroading, the era I grew up in and interacted with on a daily basis provides found memories that the modern scene just can't compare to. Just being with old friends, visiting the old haunts and recalling the old times made the trip worthwhile. The trip ended after two days, not as long as originally planned and 90% of the to -do list was not fulfilled, but it was necessary to report back to LA by Monday morning to cover some staffing shortages. Despite the short duration, it was a most satisfying weekend, good company, good memories and a good time by all concerned. Dave
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 08 June 2005, 19:13:34 Hello Dave - West Coast S Nice having you stop by to share a thought or two with us. Contrary to your S scale efforts, this particular endeavor of mine is simply to enter the S world with a small layout featuring simple operations. My plans are for passenger and freight consists running on dual main lines. That's about it. Of course my mains will be interconnected with crossover turnouts, a passing siding and parallel sidings for idle freight cars. That's it. My choice to go with S gauge as opposed to S scale had more to do with interoperatibility than anything else. Translated: I want to ensure that the "stuff" I purchase from one source will "work" with the track system from another and so forth. Seems that S gauge affords me this flexibility. Strange how the price is higher for S gauge loco's and rolling stock than for S scale. Also not really enthralled with the limited selections for roadnames and the like. BUT - the size is great - and this layout will be more for "play" than anything else. My HO empire is where it's at insofar as realism is concerned. Maybe one day, my S gauge effort will "grow" as well ......f Sure, should I come across anything at all that you're interested in - let me know (as you have) - and I'll look. My favorite railroads all were reflective of the part of the country I grew up in - the northeast. The PRR - NYC - NH and B&M were RR's I can personally relate to - oh yes, also the B&O - can't forget them. Anyway, times change and as with Anvil Salesmen, those roads are long gone, along with many of the people who made 'em what they grew to be. Same can be said of this country's maritime industry - what we called our Merchant Marine fleet. My father was a "Merchie" for most of his adult life. Look around and tell me how many U.S. flag vessels can be found in our ports these days? So, I too notice the "intruders" and reflect on what used to be. With railroading it's relatively easy to bring it all back - though my hobby. It will always "live" for me just as long as those model trains occupy their places of honor on my layouts and within my display cases. Glad your weekend getaway was rewarding and worth the sacrifice in terms of family, etc. Good way to recharge the batteries, don't you think[?] Okay, #8 - whatillyahave? [tup] [:)] Tom
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 08 June 2005, 19:38:26 Well gents, an extreme honour which I am naturally delighted to accept, not least `cos I`ve just spent 9 hours working on a neighbours garden in some serious heat & my feet are killing me....Short & sweet tonight, failing modem connection, Tom-thanks for pointer to Inuit site-Saskia definitely more like Juneau in colouring- possibly a "smudge" on her pedigree somewhere... *** & Al -welcome back, drinks for all!! Well to celebrate my recent elevation & the return of our roving correspondents lets go for the biggie- The flight of the Mallard. First, a little background. Gresley`s Pacific loco`s for the London & North Eastern Railway were developed from the A1 class-"Flying Scotsman" et al through the A3 `super pacifics` to the streamlined A4`s which featured smaller cylinders,larger piston valves and extensive internal streamlining of steam ways etc after the work of Andre Chapelon. The purpose of this was to improve max. speeds in normal use from 90 to 110 mph on the Kings Cross-Waverly & Aberdeen runs. Obviously, a commensurate increase in stopping power was required. Thus ,a series of Sunday test runs were organised to give the engineers from Westinghouse data to work from. so-3rd July 1938-A4 #4468`Mallard` ,dynomometer,9 car `coronation` coach set weight 325 tons, clear road......The down trip out to Grantham produced nothing memorable ,but the up run with the Stoke Bank gradient falling away from Grantham to Peterborough (Britains top race track) to help get a wiggle on was too much to resist-official orders from Gresley-The Germans have just managed 125mph-lets beat it. I have read a detailed report of this run that states that running through Peterborough Mallard was moving fast enough that the reverse curves had her canted over far enough that both sides left the rails one after the other. at any other time the driver would have been instantly dismissed for reckless endangerment, but not this day!-further encouragement to `open her up` led to a final max of 126 mph through Essendine before the thrashing took its toll and the centre big-end bearing ( a notorious weak spot on the big Gresley triples ) collapsed and Mallard had to be removed from the train. The same report also notes that as a result of the fright he received going though P/Borough with half his engine in the air, the driver took immediate early retirement and lived out his days as a lay preacher ( I would imagine an experience like that could make one see the world differently ). Then came 1939 and an era passed. Boris looks worryingly bright-eyed tonight-has someone been feeding him meat again ? Could someone pass me that big jar of horse-pills, thank you.....Boris ,Swallow Pill, Go To Shed, Stay There Until Moon Sets, Juneau Look After You, Good..er..whatever you are. Right same again all round,better send this before the line drops out again, have a good one folks,nick
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 08 June 2005, 19:52:47 Evening Guys! I see we have a gathering in the back room - Juke is jumping, pool tables at work and the keg's need tapping. I've tried to teach Boris how to tap a keg properly, but methinks I'd have more luck getting Ruthie to wear a bra (or perhaps some of you haven't noticed?) [}:)] A thought or two. We have a nucleus amongst us within our gang of 10 (9 customers and yours truly) who make this cyber bar 'n grill "go." Wonder if any of you have thought about getting together - in person - one day[?] I just can't imagine that whatever we would decide to do and wherever we'd do it at, that it would be anything other than a lot of fun. [:D] Now, realilty always hits home when something like this gets discussed. For example, and in no particular pecking order: (1) Obligations to family & job. (2) Costs. (3) Health. (4) Willingness. (5) etc. Whatever the reason(s), one can easily find a way to come up with a "no thanx!" So, my comments would be better thought out and responded to by Email to me. That way, no one is personally put out to dry. [V] How to do something like this? Well, I'd be all for an annual get together with a rail sojourn involved right up front. Just has to be a train somewhere in the mix for us to ride. Can be a trolley - can be light rail - or most certainly can be traditional passenger rail. Now, where? Biased as I am, I'd say Canada would be a great place for the 1st rendezvous. If we could find our way to West Wales, that would be terrific too - those pubs would NEVER be the same - right, Nick My guess is that *** is thinking that Dallas would be a great place for a gathering - especially with that fine DART system along with those former VIA Rail RDC's operating on the Trinity run. So, the "where" shouldn't be a problem. How long for this rendezvous[?] I'm thinking of one complete day and night, that would be fine. So, depending on where one is traveling from, it probably would work out to as many as three nights away, or as few as one. Costs? Well that's always the bugger and something each of us has to reconcile. A rendezvous with simplicity in mind - kinda like what we have right here in "Our" Place - would be terrific. A local pub with a decent menu - a hotel with hot and cold running maids water, rather than a spa, salon and gym, should also suffice. So, send me your [2c] worth by Email and we'll see what happens. Tom
QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 08 June 2005, 20:12:02 Ok Tom I accept your offer, make it Johnny Walker Red on the rocks. You’re on the right track with your design concepts, Simple to build and maintain and slated for good operation, when do have our first operating session? We will have to come up with interchange cars to exchange. Actually, I find scale modeling more affordable in most areas then HO. As you stated availability is an issue, time will tell if the masses and manufacturer’s embrace it. If I did a gauge layout, it would mimic those great department store display layouts that were so much a part of the holiday season in years past. Dave
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 08 June 2005, 20:31:43 Dave Meet Mr. Walker! [tup] [:)] My S-gauge progress is kinda like the kid with an apetite bigger than his stomach - remember that from your childhood[?] Several things have to fall into place: (1) ceiling suspension system has to be altered to accomodate the 7x8 ft framework. Communicating with manufacturer to ascertain yes/no. (2) S-Trax track has to be available. Communicating with SHS to ascertain yes/no. (3) Loco's and rolling stock has to be available. Communicating with Port Lines hobbies to ascertain yes/no. (4) Order what I need and "go for it." First op session, optimistically speaking, should be one month from today, given that everything I want is available. A friend of mine has/had a lead on two Gilbert AF sets (sans transformers) that supposedly are vintage "stuff" - one the Santa Fe passenger set of the 1950's (drool) and the other a freight w/steam engine (roadname unknown). The guy who wants/wanted to get rid of this stuff has had them since new and claims they are in great shape and in original boxes. Wants to ensure that they go to someone who "cares" about these kinds of trains. (!) Anway, I thought that I would be getting them early last month .... unfortunately, the owner of the trains has been out of the country for awhile and who knows when or if this will materialize. I can just envision those sight-unseen trains - just like those Department Store window displays of years past - methinks! (drool) The way HO stuff is going these days, I'm not surprised that some S-scale items may be cheaper. My HO layout is hardly upscale nor DCC, the latter is where the costs are. My HO layout is wired the old fasioned way - common rail wiring - lots of toggle switches and insulated rail joiners. Runs just fine with two MRC Tech IV power packs - four trains running independtly of one another. It would have been soooooo easy to blow a bundle on upscale stuff ..... but didn't. Got all the roadnames I wanted in loco's and passenger cars and RDC's. Couldn't do that with S. Tried, a couple of years ago. Didn't work then and it doesn't appear much has changed. Kinda have to just settle for what's out there with S. That's the downside for me. Another Mr. Walker? [tup] [:)] Tom
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: T08 June 2005, 20:39:04 Tom-now there`s a thought-might be able to make Toronto next summer if sisters health allows her to return to her job out there (free lodgings). Would be delighted to host an event although shipping all you guys here makes less sense financially than me going there -hey,maybe we could all ride the Northlander !!! -Failing that I`m sure some sort of `conference` link could be set up..........P.S Logo design progressing well,one link still required in dubious logic chain to support-Is the Wisconsin Central a wholly owned C.N subsidiary ? P.P.S --slightly baffled, S scale-1:64 S gauge ???,fish & chip night tomorrow,will speak again then, modem permitting, regards to Carol,nick
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 08 June 2005, 20:48:56 NickI KNEW you'd like this idea and Toronto would be outstanding as a first rendezvous site. However, I encourage our regulars (#1 thru #9) to send me an Email with your thoughts, if you are uncomfortable with "airing" it here in cyber space. From the Wisconsin Central's web site: QUOTE: On January 30, 2001, Wisconsin Central and Canadian National announced that they had reached an agreement on CN's acquisition of WC. When the U.S. Surface Transportation Board released its final approval of the transaction on September 7, 2001, CN President and CEO Paul M. Tellier welcomed both the decision and the opportunity to build an even stronger NAFTA network for the benefit of customers, stockholders, and employees. Said WC President and CEO Thomas Power: "It's time for WC to become part of a larger North American rail network, and CN is the perfect partner." You are correct about the S-scale 1:64. I think the best way to explain S-gauge is consider the S-scale as being of realism, whereas S-gauge is more typical of the old Gilbert American Flyer - toys as such. Larger wheelsets and couplers, just less realism with the S-gauge. Yes - fisn 'n chips on Thursday - don't forget Nick's Picks! Reciprocal regards from my bride and Juneau [tup] [:)] Tom
QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 08 June 2005, 21:17:43 Oh, my Hanes and Jockey incumberances! Please understand that Pub Stools #1 thru # 40 (in omni directions) make no difference as to our friendship. There are so many erstwhile "Brothers," that any sort of rating can be only be arbitrary! By the way Tom, it hasn't escaped anyone's notice that the "# 2 Stool" is the one that needs a couple of Molson's coasters under the legs for "steady ballast." Nick, while I appreciate your discretion toward "stuffed Dolmas" and the like; Curry is the only condiment that this humble Oxidental cannot survive. Mahta (my Hungarian friend), will simply need do without her provencial preference, I'm afraid! In any case Tom, the intersticies between Ruthy and Mahta will be covertly arranged according to "work schedules." et al. Tom, I don't know how anyone could "break your heart" more than this story: When I moved from my house in Tulsa Ok, I informed my Sister that the S gauge [American Flyer- - Northern, Hudson and sixteen freight and passenger cars- - which I purchased for my nephew's X-mas would remain in the garage for their retrieval. Mein Gott! She forgot about the "cache" and everything fell into the hands of the Buyer, tut suite! Gentlemen, please forgive this ongoing delirium. Whilst trying to "catch-up," I've fallen victim to the late hour and "Royal's" embrace. I'll try again tomorrow [if there is one] to say: "I give-up!" Thanks again Chrisy, you have good taste in Proprietors. Happy rails gang, Ted
QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 08 Jun 2005, 22:12:32 I suppose the Canary Islands are "out" for any realisitc projections? [Not much for anything save drooling at any rate]. Depending on the "time frame," I'm "up" for any reasonable suggestion. If during the summer months, Toronto seems convenient (especially with the "Under Briny Speed Rail System"), however, during winter hoildays; my puny physical demeanor cries out...YIKES! I am looking forward to every and all suggestions for a real (not cyber) itenerary for this most intruiging (if not bizaare) conflagration. Please use my MSN address (which Tom will be apprised of) for future input. Happy rails and please dont forget the spatula Nick. Best regards to one and all. Ted
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 08 Jun 2005, 22:28:51 Good evening everyone. Tom i'm stopping in earlier this evening so I can enjoy a nice Sleemans honey brown and a wonderfull black angus steak medium rare. Nick I have some nice fresh NS lobster will it be of use tomorrow night as a "pick" Well looks like we lost one of the lobsters. Boris is struggling with it behind the bar,I think the lobsters winning. Ruthy is laughing so hard that I think she's lost a contact. Tom I think Toronto would be a good start point for a get together as well. Via goes allot of places from there. I'll "e" you a suggestion later. I want to give everyone a tale of two streetcars. In 1953 the TTC decided that their historical collection, was too large and too expensive to maintain,so much of it was to be scrapped. Particullarly two wooden early century cars from the TTC's predecessor systems.( The TTC we now have was the amalgamation of 4 separate city and interurban sytems. The Toronto railway Company, the Toronto Civic Railway, the Toronto Suburban(TO to Guelph interurban),and the North York Radial Railway) Appalled at the loss of these two irreplaceable cars Toronto Civic 55 and Toronto railway Company 1326) seven young men at a New Years eve party decided that they should do something about it. They literally passed a hat and scrapped enough money together to Purchase 1326 at it's scrap value. One of these young men a mechanic for the TTC busses persuaded his boss to have 55 donated to their cause. The OERHA (Ontario Electric railway Historical Society) They further persuaded the TTC to store these two cars while they sought a new home for them( Dad's backyard was not an option)in 1956 a small rural plot of land was purchased from CN for the back taxes. Oddly enough this piece of land was part of the Toronto Suburban's abandoned right of way between Milton and Guelph, joining the party at this time was another interurban car Montreal and Southern Counties 107. And thus the Halton County Radial Railway was born. Still volunteer built still volunteer operated. and now the first three cars. SCROLL BACK for pixCar # 1 TRC 1326 a 1910 TR car built in the company shops one of three hundred such cars. (1300-1710) The second car is Toronto civic 55 Preston car and coach manufactured in 1915. Wooden single truck double ended cars. and finally car #33 Montreal and Southern Counties 107 interurban combine built in 1912 by Ottawa Car and Coach also a wooden double ended car. Good night all Rob
QUOTE: On January 30, 2001, Wisconsin Central and Canadian National announced that they had reached an agreement on CN's acquisition of WC. When the U.S. Surface Transportation Board released its final approval of the transaction on September 7, 2001, CN President and CEO Paul M. Tellier welcomed both the decision and the opportunity to build an even stronger NAFTA network for the benefit of customers, stockholders, and employees. Said WC President and CEO Thomas Power: "It's time for WC to become part of a larger North American rail network, and CN is the perfect partner."
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 10:40:29 Morning all Kinda quiet so I'll take the light lunch special as long as Boris hasn't pawed it over. Tom your SUMMARIES are a God send anyone new popping in can get right into the meat of the conversations. Besides you usually fix our poor grammar and spelling as well Light Rail in St Lou you say. Same type as Edmonton and Calgary I'd imagine euro cars from Germany? I seem to remember several of the "used" PCC's that Toronto picked up were from your fair city, most fell into the 4400 series numbers along with refugee's from Birmingham, Cleveland, & other parts south. Every possible sub type of PCC save the double polled double ended variety eventually ended up on the TTC. Well gentlemen I'm taking my lunch and I'm off. BTW Tom those are some nice dill pickles that you brought in. Photo of the day lets see. Two I think before and during restoration shots of TTC sweeper S-37.This car came to TTC VIA NYC and Boston Talk to you all tonight Rob
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 13:44:40 Rob Thanx for the kind words regarding the SUMMARIES and also the grammar/spelling check. I really am not "into" trying to insult anyone with this - but as I go through the narratives and come across typo's - I try to fix 'em. Heck, who's perfect Here's some photos of what the St. Louis MetroLink cars look like today: These pix are from http://world.nycsubway.org/us/stlouis/ if you want to view more ... The cars were built by Siemens and the line opened in July 1993, a 17 mile stretch over mostly existing right-of-way between St. Louis' International Airport (Lambert Field) and East St. Louis, Illinois. Additional cars for the system were built at Siemens' Sacramento, CA plant as a result of a 1998 contract. Today the routes have expanded and the system plans more growth. Unfortunately a segment of less than 8 miles through an urban setting with lots of infrastructure hurdles has reached over $650 million in projected costs and growing. That's a lot of bucks per mile - an ill advised route for sure. But that's a story for another day. I was very much involved with civic input regarding the expansion of MetroLink - both with a State Representative/Senator with whom I worked, and my own 400 member Coalition. We wanted to stop this foolish expansion - but lost out. Today, because of the ill advised planning - there are no projected dollars to run the new leg should this thing ever get built! Try to justify that .... There's lotsa stuff on the web regarding light rail - as undoubtedly you already know. The St. Louis system uses MetroLink whereas LA uses Metrolink - catch the difference? See ya! [tup] [;)] Tom (Siberianmo)
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 13:55:08 earlydiesels You asked ........ here's the best I could find on the web - two book covers. I'm sure some browsing, you could probably find some others. However, Nicolas Morant's works are for sale - so perhaps the "freebies" may be a bit difficult to locate. Enjoy! [tup] [;)] SCROLL BACK to find the pix ........ (Siberianmo)
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 17:53:34 JUNEAU, Mascot of "Our" Place Nice surroundings inside of Boris' Shed, wouldn't you agree[?] (Siberianmo)
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 18:44:10 Hey Tom evenin’ gents -what`ll you all have-it`s been a perfect summers day here-very much against the general run of play, perfect cider drinking weather and since this is a cyber bar, I can enjoy my favourite tipple without the possibly fatal consequences attendant on a real life indulgence !!!!!- Tom-love the big band grooves on the juke-now there`s a rhythm section that can swing. Approve the sentiment behind the selections, for some reason it hasn`t been picked up on over here. Some delicate Euro Political stuff going on just now so most likely "pretend it never happened" type diplomacy at work-ugly stuff. Sounds like your local Metro (airport to city) might just be more for the benefit of tourists than the good people who actually fund the thing-just hope & pray St Louis never enters an Olympic bid-the local economy may never recover........ r.e. SUMMARIES (thanks!!) I am increasingly finding memory to be a start point rather than a specific location-repetition good for me. You mentioned, a day or so ago the somewhat `high spirited` environments in which I ply my trade, I guess after living down here for 15 years I tend not to notice it so much. In fact, The Welsh seem to maintain the old Celtic tradition whereby the Bards (traveling musicians & storytellers) were granted safe passage throughout the land at all times-playing the bars in south London, where I grew up was a lot different. Have only ever felt intimidated a handful of times in 30 years of playing and in fear of my life only once ( a tale for a winters evening) For the record Pembrokeshire has contributed many fine citizens to the world......Frank & Jesse James, the Dalton gang, Captain Henry Morgan, Capt `Black Bart`Bartholemew...............ah...... moving swiftly on, Earlydiesels-GO FOR IT..! It would be a terrible thing to reach the autumn of your years and think "I had the chance & didn`t take it" With your Lady obviously right behind you it looks like green lights all the way. Good luck with the next stage, we await with interest. Rob-Nice one man!-I can now see those cards in a whole new light, love the idea of the 1-day repeal . Nice shots of the sweeper car-I find something fascinating about the whole range of non-revenue cars, rarely 2 alike, all seemingly assembled out of left over bits`n`bobs from other vehicles-wonderful! By the way, dont worry about Boris mauling the food, he uses his old socks as mittens. Anybody know why our genial host is in the backyard hitting a computer with a tree branch and screaming "Give it back you ***" ? I sense some inner tension there. Please excuse formless ramble, still hyper from band practice, tonight we were overrun with Polish sailors on 8 hour furlough from the bar upstairs, friendly but deranged and all 240+ pounds & DRUNK............honest, I couldn`t make this stuff up !! Be happy, lucky & as well as possible, moonlight mile for me now, speak soon, nick
QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 19:03:46 Tom-just seen the shot of Juneau -He looks remarkably similar to a family of dogs around the village, the owner of the Dam says they are called Northern Inuits and are apparently the closest domesticated breed to a wolf, right down to the yellow eyes-ring any bells ? Coat is almost identical colour as is the "I`m here because I choose to be" demeanour. Both Dam & pups are some of the best natured animals I`ve met. Any info would be of great interest, nick P.S.-looks like you`ve hit the big 600 !!!
QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 20:18:15 Evening Tom and the gang...Dave from the left cost, reporting for something cold on tap, your recommendation. I've had evil thoughts of late. Seeing that attractive female Seargent assigned to my unit in dress uniform got me thinking, must remember I have a wife of 22 years whom I dearly love... Hey, trolley fans, the Pacific Electric lives! A 1.25 mile segment in San Pedro has been restored to operation and a long sought, though not realistic, desire among many is that perhaps someday the connection to the Dominguez line (now the Torrance Industrial Spur), portions abandoned in 1953 & 1984 could be restored, provided Union Pacific is agreeable and ROW property can be obtained. UP has made significient improvements to what it refers to as its Torrance industrial Spur with re-lay rail and ballast replacement. SP operated this line using. Geeps, SD7/9s, MP15s after the wires came down but its Interurban heritage betrays itself by extensive street trackage and two car sidings. The unique PE Wig-Wag crossing signals are no more, replaced within the last couple of years by standard grade crossing protection. I'll miss these unique reminders. Tom, I'll get you the word on that big adventure, meantime, I think my wife has a honey do list waiting for me, thought I'd chime in on my local Interurban scene, but first a couple of rounds for the boys. My pleasure. Dave
QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 20:48:23 Evening Guys! Whatillyahave I see some rounds have been bought, so drink up - smores on the way! [tup] [;)] Nick Check out this URL: http://www.gotpetsonline.com/pictures/gallery/dogs/alphabetically/northern-inuit-dogs/ West Coast S Meant to tell you awhile back, I'm getting into S-gauge (not scale) with some American Models and S-Helper loco's and rolling stock. My current project is a ceiling suspended layout - 7x8ft in my basement storage room (only place left in the house for more trains!). I decided to go with S for several reasons (1) Always like the size (2) A friend of mine had a "lead" on some vintage Gilbert American Flyer sets at apparently a near give away price - but this has fizzled - which goes to show that IF IT'S TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT ISN'T! (3) My main layout is HO - our Christmas tree trains are LGB (2 sets) and my shelf system is Lionel's Polar Express O-gauge; time for something new. I'll be purchasing S-Trax (for simplicity, not price!) along with an MRC dual power transformer (AC) for the two trains that will run in opposite directions on the layout I'm planning. Of course pictures will be provided as I get going on this - most of 'em on my Photo Album site: http://www.railimages.com/albums/thomasweber Thought you'd be interested. Will respond to both in more detail in tomorrow's SUMMARY. See ya both and enjoy the evening/night. Tom (Siberianmo)
QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 07 Jun 2005, 23:26:11 Good evening everyone. His old socks you say Nick [:O] maybe the pickle flavour I was complimenting Tom on was incorrect. As for railway work equipment you are right so many of them are one offs built (Frankenstein style) in the railways own shops. In the case of S-37 she and her sisters were off the self units ordered from the Russell car company. I've found while researching street railways that snow sweepers tended to be purpose built not home cobbled be it single or double trucked. One nice thing about our museum is that we have preserved allot of the unique work equipment, gives the general public something different to see and ride on. west coast that's good news it's nice to see more rail history not only being preserved but actually reused Here's a couple more pic's of some work equipment for everyone. The first one is one of our oldest functional cars W-4 this was built in the Toronto Railway companies shops one of ten work flatcars. This little baby is 101 this year. due to cast iron wheels we don't give it much running time. The museum decided that due to the fragile nature of cast wheels those cars so equipped won't get regular use until they are replaced with steel wheels. The steel wheels are less chip prone in the treads, as the cast iron ages it becomes brittle and running over a small rock lets say can crack and fracture the wheels. The next is a picture if snowplow TP-11 one of two built to combat heavy drifts in 1946 by national steel car in Hamilton Ontario. We lovingly refer to this car as the beast!!!. Good night all Rob
QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 08 June 2005, 05:05:36 "Godfry Daniel!" (W. C. Fields), I nearly fell into an anxiety "attack" upon entering "Our" Place this morning. I believe such a volume of quality postings containing substance and fantasy might very well make "M.R. Forum" history. I'm sure, if it weren't for the dedicated editing of the Summaries, I would have lapsed into a state of apoplexy long before Rob's last entry (superb pix of W-4 and TP-11, Rob). Where to begin? Early Diesels, I join all of the brotherhood in wishing only the best for you in a trying but very promising period. Please know that, to a man, we are all of us "in your corner." May we all raise a chalice in a toast to health, prosperity, and longevity for our esteemed comrade. Nick, your erudition on a plethora of fields and avocations is beyond my imagining. My humble, novice request for "More" on U.K. rails was met with an avalanche of esoteric data befitting a Masters thesis, thank you. Tom, I am flattered to embarrassment for the number two pub stool. But would you please be kind enough to allow me to withdraw my under serving self in favor of another choice far more worthy? Thank you so much. [Almost sounds like a Charlie Chan movie, doesn't it?] Dave, wonderful news from from your beautiful State. P.E. was still a viable, efficient "people mover" at the time of its covertly contrived demise (my opinion). Sooner than anyone thinks, the revival of such light rail operations will be a necessity, certainly not a curiosity. Hopefully, S.P. will see the wisdom of incorporating interurban (radial) service before "grid lock" and fuel prices combine to bring CA's "freeways" to "parking lot" status. Also, let us hope the political "straw bosses" stand clear of "mystery" routes through condemned property sites which they have invested in for their own future personal profit. Right Tom? Same thing happened in Baltimore-Washington area! There is far too much "catching-up" for one posting. I'll try to "keep the wind to me back," and out tack the flow in this melange of information "over-load." In parting, Boris, drinks all 'round if you please and I meant to say earlier, the fresh apron is a step in the right direction. No offence but you must know by now that it ties in the back Boris, not the front. G'Day all.
QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 08 June 2005, 08:32:37 How about a round for the house and I'll have the usual. I don’t care if it is only 6:30 AM on the right coast. My short railfanning weekend was cancelled at the last minute. Have a publisher who had other plans for me so had to give it up for that filthy (green stuff) money. I will keep this short as have not finished the project i am working on. Our ACE trains may be on the verge of a major cash infusion will let everyone know the outcome. Soon as I finish my project will rejoin the forum. Only have a chance for a quick glance the last few days. Sorry!
QUOTE: wrwatkins Posted: 08 June 2005, 09:00:30 Good morning y'all. This is Stool # 6. I will have a cup of java and make it strong and black. It is a little early to hit the good stuff. I have a policy to never drink before noon, however, paraphrasing the C&W song it is noon somewhere. Last night I went to the ***lyer Library at Southern Methodist University in Dallas (really University Park) to view their collection of Southern Pacific memorabilia they had on exhibition. It is well worth the visit, however, the show is only running through Friday June 17. The ***lyer Library has a fond place in my black heart. I am a vice president of ***lyer and MacNaughton, an international oil and gas consulting company that was started by Everett Lee ***lyer, who endowed the ***lyer Library. Last night was especially interesting as they had a guest appearance by the legendary photographer Richard Steinheimer. Stein is 75 and in failing health mentally. He was signing books, however the show was put on by his wife, Shirley Burman as Stein no longer can do public speaking. The show was in three parts. The first was a "Roast and Toast" of Stein with cute pictures and a history of his life from birth to the present day that was narrated by Shirley. The next two parts were slide (really power point) show of his black and white and color photos that was coregraphed (sp?) to music. He is quite a photographic artist and I felt honored to have the once in my life opportunity to meet him. Even got a book signed by him. Glad that Tom placed pictures of Morant's two great books on this thread. They are great books, but a little pricy. I think I paid about $80 each (Ouch!). That is US dollars, not Canadian. All I have for now. I am still a little down after seeing Stein is such poor condition. ***
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