"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

And now, a little something different ........
The following is a copy of a portion of an Email sent to a friend:

QUOTE: While walking "Juneau" (Siberian Husky) last evening before sunset, a neighbor wished us a "Happy Memorial Day." I was taken aback by this comment - whereas Carol, always polite, reciprocated.

I wanted to tell this adult female that:
(1) The day was set aside shortly after our Civil War as a day to decorate the
graves of the 600,000 military who died in that struggle.
(2) The death total represented 2% of the nation's total population. Today, it would equate to about 6 million.
(3) Right up until I was a young adult, we used to remember our war dead by decorating their graves, purchase and wear poppies, and take time to contemplate the sacrifices made for us all.
(4) If one were to research Acts of Congress, you would find that several exist extolling the people to pay homage to our deceased military who gave their lives in battle and to pray for their souls on this day.
(5) Then things changed - the day became known as Memorial Day. Shortly thereafter, "Monday holidays" became law, and the celebration of Decoration Day slipped into the past.
(6) Alas, today I think most people think the day means cook outs, sales at the Mall, and a long weekend to recreate with only a hint of the intent of it all.

"Happy" Memorial Day? Yeah, right!

===========================================

"Enjoy the long weekend" or "Have a good weekend" - but for those who have lost someone in battle, or who have themselves been in war and witnessed the horror of it all, "happy" just doesn't get it.

See ya later,

Tom (Siberianmo)

[Anonymous]

Esteemed Colleagues, ladies and gentlemen all. It ocurred to me (very) early this A.M. that amidst our "official" commemorative period, we may have over-looked the very catalyst that brings us together. I hope it isn't "too far afield" on this final day of observances to recognize the untold and little appreciated losses the railroads of our Homeland's endured throughout those desperate times. Perhaps it won't seem too far a "stretch" as we ponder the enormous effort in logisitcs, not to mention, exhausting use of men, women and machines to "keep our troops moving." No better example than that of England could be recognized (with Canada and the U.S. close behind) for the emergency exploitation of a National Industry to its' near ruin.

No, certainly I'm not suggesting that even severe losses in materiels should be venerated in equal measure with that of our own people, never! If , however, we take a gestalt appraisal of our respective Country's casualties, the railroads would rank high among them. I know that Tom must remember (as I do), the endless coaches of troop trains and mile long consists of "flats, gons, munitions box" cars; over-laden with ordinance and literally wearing-out before our eyes. So far as I know, the Companies sustained these "war effort" losses "on their own." May we raise our quaffs to, at least, a hearty "well done" for an unfailing Industry and its' people? Here, here!

Nick, the MI-6 is bating 1,000 as this latest "privilaged information" supports the initial findings of Mr. Doyle's (Private Investigator) dossier on the matter precisely. My currrent posture of "no news is good news," is probably prudent until Tom receives Inspector "Clwliss's" final report. It is obvious now that this medical event brought with it an incumbent "silver linning." So far, I'm only "out" a succulent repast in the finest tradition of gothic cuisine. That and the offer of an evening's souriee on Chris's motorcycle have been the only casualties thus far. Thank you again for "a word to the wise." And, thank all of you for sharing a memorable long weekend together. Happy rails, one and all.

[trolleyboy]

Gentlemen good evening.Nick you have RDC's in the UK? I'm not sure that I'd call them local.LOL I remember seeing those EMD's shipping out in CN and CP trains which were Halifax bound for ship ,loading. Am I right to assume that these are the SD70 clones that were bought by the WC when they assumed control of Britrail? As for classics i notoced that work on "416" our double ended light interurban car has picked up some pace the last few weeks a completely new roof has appeared and the wiring(re-wirinng) is strting up. This poor car had house wiring as it spent 20 some years as a house. A click on it's photo on the title page of the museum web site will link you to it's story. Last I had heard another 2 or $3000 will be required to fini***he work,including two new trucks(well old but new to us)Then the (shop trucks) which belong to Hamilton Street railway 521 can be returned to their rightfull owner. I'm trying to start up a fund raisng drive for 521 a neat little two truck nearside car clone built by national steel car in Hamilton Ontario for the HSR. The nice thing about our orginization is that beside donations garnering the giver a tax receipt you can specify where you would like the money to go. Allot of our cars and buildings have their own persoal pots which are used exclusivly for them. well gents just a short Sunday report. I'll talk to everyone tomorrow. Rob

[nickinwestwales]

Tom,Hi-just popped in to mop out the washrooms,move the kegs,feed Boris ,clean the fish fridge-all those little things that the ladies,quite rightly,consider beyond thier remit. Whilst I`m here I`ll write out the orders for next weeks menu,I`m off to visit the In-Laws for a few days in the A.M so my stool will remain cold...( can I say that ? ) here at the bar. Will be in Farnborough, Hampshire-faceless southern English suburbia for the most part but within striking distance of a handfull of preserved steam lines,inc. one with the largest collection of "Pacifics",from several roads,that I`ve seen outside a museum, several main lines,some cross-country secondary working,merry-go-round freight working ( with Canadian built G.M power I believe)plus loads of electric 3rd rail suburban and express multiple-unit working,inc. some 1960`s `slam door` stock that I grew up with and didn`t realise was still in use. Will have newly mastered digi-cam to hand, so hopefully will return with material in hand for a legitimate contribution to this classic train thread,albeit in the form of an oversea`s travelogue of "current events on a small island",to paraphrase Bill Bryson. As luck would have it,Father-In-Law is also trainfan and modeller ( 1930/40 Swiss/Austrian ) and L.H.S is 5 minutes walk away-here I`m looking at 70 miles each way,for this I can be deprived of the comforts of home with indecent haste...! A quick note to TED....Was engaged in conversation with Inspecter Clwliss (as they spell it in the old country) down by the bandstand this afternoon ( a small matter of permits & licenses for Boris) when who should I see pushing a stroller containing a tiny & perfect replica of herself but your own dear Ruthie......It all becomes clear, that "something" she wanted to discuss over dinner,the extra shifts at the Coffee Shop...............Think positive and be well my friend,speak soon. ......Right,thats me-change the straw in Boris`s shed during the week,he can sleep with the Husky for the night-remind him of home,should be back for fish & chip night,have a good week fellow patrons..!!-Now Tom,before I go,about that Cymru & Maritime R.D.C service you mentioned--what manner of livery would such a service carry...?...Will try and find some usable shots of local R.D.C services for comparison,take care,nick

[siberianmo]

SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS
Yes, we’re CLOSED on Sundays … but always have time for a SUMMARY! Don’t forget, you can always slip your messages in the slots on either door ….. they will be posted. [tup]

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 28 May 2005, 09:09:11


QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 27 May 2005, 21:37:03
Well hey guys,,who wants another one!!-I`d better just step behind the counter for a bit whilst Tom has a well earned sit-down,did someone mention the Juke..?..How about some Chuck Berry & Eddie Cochran as its a friday night.....

TED-good to see you back amongst us,as I`m sure youre doctors have told you,a little gentle exercise of an evening is an important part of the process-so a stroll down to Our Place with Ruthie on her rare nights off can only do you good...enjoy..

Now as to the mystery of.... I`m not sure if you are all aware,but Zoe,Chloe & cousin Ruthie are all distaff descendants of "Sonny" Barger,president of the Hells Angels motorcycle club,and as such,`biker girls` to their roots....Zoe has a Harley Shovelhead, Chloe,a Norton Commando Interstate and the lovely Ruthie a B.S.A Road Rocket,this being the case they tend to stick together,as one might expect. It seems that Ruthies eagerness to take on `extra shifts` at the C.S was partly to help out family but mostly to keep Boris out of her "Victoria`s Secret" saturday night specials--He will have to be spoken to again,this time with violence......

Hi to all the Trolley fans,a whole new thing happening here-ROB & others,thanks for posting pix-gives us novices something to tie the posts to,particulaly me cos I`m 3000 miles away and never seen most of this stuff before.

O.K.-another round for the house before I go,

Welcome F7,take a seat and relax,apologies to anyone I`ve missed--Steak Night tomorrow,where`s that left over pizza...............

Tom,-What would you say the chances are of getting a taxi from Our Place to West Wales at this time of night.....yup, I tend to agree,oh well-Its the moonlight mile for me again,sweet dreams one and all!!!! nick
=======================================
Hello Nick - We've just got to get you over to this side of the pond ... these time zones are killers ......

Okay, let me see IF I can get this all straight regarding The Mystery of Ruthie -
(1) I hired her, along with the other three gals a few days before my departure for Canada.
(2) Nick revealed their names right before I left.
(3) Upon my return, they were made permanent staff due to the overwhelming acceptance by the gang here at "Our" Place and the increase in business.
(4) Right around the time of "The Coffee Shop" 1st Anniversary/Birthday Party, Ruthie shows up over there.
(5) Trolleyboy Rob says:
QUOTE: Also I may have been the one who inadvertenty had Ruthie hire on at the CS. Sh'e only there to spell off the twins which whom she is apparently the first cousin. Not to worry though her allegiances are to us (I've been paying her CS salary) BTW you pay much better,and she is here for all our busy Thurs, Fri, & Sat festivities.

(6) Based on #5, we are informed of a genetic link between Ruthie and the "twins" over at the CS.
(7) Nick adds:
QUOTE: Now as to the mystery of.... I`m not sure if you are all aware,but Zoe,Chloe & cousin Ruthie are all distaff descendants of "Sonny" Barger,president of the Hells Angels motorcycle club,and as such,`biker girls` to their roots....Zoe has a Harley Shovelhead, Chloe,a Norton Commando Interstate and the lovely Ruthie a B.S.A Road Rocket,this being the case they tend to stick together,as one might expect. It seems that Ruthies eagerness to take on `extra shifts` at the C.S was partly to help out family but mostly to keep Boris out of her "Victoria`s Secret" saturday night specials--He will have to be spoken to again,this time with violence......

(8) Based on #7, we now know that the gals are all related to some bad blood and are Biker Gals to the core ....... Ruthie apparently needed a break from the rigors of putting up with Boris along with some other understandable personal reasons took on work at the CS.

Okay - before the EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (aka: Kangaroo Court) hears this case, we first must read the report of Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary. I've since found out that HE is a CLOSE relative of one Boris, employee of "Our" Place. Further, the Inspector has been known to ride side cars at high speeds over rail crossings thereby having been ejected on several occasions onto the roadside and roadbed - on his head, of course.

Ahhhhhhhh, the THLOT PICKENS ..... more to follow!

Regarding that taxi to West Wales, why not just take the RDC out back .... one should be coming along any time now - haven't you heard about the Atlantic tunnel? Comes ashore somewhere in Ireland - then over to your neck of the woods - through England to the Chunnel. Quite a work, indeed. Hey! Anything's possible in this cyber world of ours ..........

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 28 May 2005, 09:59:36

What this thread is all about - "Classic Trains"

Hi guys! Time to get back on track around here ..... nothing wrong with some laughs - we have lots of those, along with some fantasy situations - several ongoing as a matter of fact. How about some "Classic Train" talk?

I'm looking at my Canadian Pacific - Stand Fast, Craigellachie! book by Greg McDonnell. Mr. McDonnell, according to the "jacket,"
QUOTE: ...... has spent a lifetime observing, photographing and writing about railroads. from watching CP Rail trains rumble past his home on Orr's Lake Hill, in Ontario, to tracking endangered Alcos in the deserts of Mexico, exploring obscure "boxcar branches" on the Saskatchewan prairie, and pacing Santa Fe hotshots along old Route 66, he travels extensively, pursuing his active interest in documenting all aspects of railroading. ......

I began a modest railroad library (only hard covers "allowed") about a year ago. I first started with railroads that I could "identify" with - pretty much the same logic used with my Can-Am HO layout; if I rode 'em - they are "allowed" on the pike (freights are the exception). Anyway, this library has grown a bit, and although I am more interested in passenger trains and diesels than anything else, there's much, much more in these great books.

Looking at the Canadian Pacific Railway map of 1934, the system stretched from Nova Scotia to British Columbia (Vancouver and Vancouver Island) and up to some far flung northern locations in Alberta and BC.

The "Craigellachie!" reference is steeped in Canadian railroading lore .... From the "Forward,"
QUOTE: We thought of Canadian Pacific, its history and its heritage. And what better way to evoke all that than to recall the clan Grant's rallying point in the old Scottish county of Banffshire. Or to recall that day, November 7, 1885, when Donald Smith drove the last spike in the Monashee Mountains of British Columbia, at a place also named after that "rock of alarm," Craigellachie!" [Robert J Ritchie, President & CEO Canadian Pacific Railways, June 6, 2003]

It should also be noted that as Mr. Ritchie wrote the "Forward," he did so on the 59th anniversary of Canadian troops landing at Juno Beach on D-Day, where so many made the supreme sacrifice for what turned out to be the foundation for a better world in the years to follow.

Note: In Canada, Remembrance Day is celebrated on the 11th hour of the 11 day of the 11th month. We call it Veteran's Day here in the U.S. - and since Canada does not have a "Memorial Day" as a separate holiday, let's also remember those who allied themselves during WWII to rid the world of European tyranny, as well as the ill fated conquest of Asia by the Japanese of another era.

I leave you with:

Stand Fast, Craigellachie,
Where they drove the last spike in;
To bind a vast Dominion,
To let a brand new day begin.
A whistle screams out of history,
As red diesels roll their loads,
Westbound to the Pacific,
On the rails of Van Horne's Road."
[From the song Craigellachie by Stan J. Smaill]
----------------------------------------------------------------

That's it for now!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 28 May 2005, 13:21:54
QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 28 May 2005, 07:19:16
Hi everyone and a special welcome to John [f-7 man]. It may take a few minutes of your time but Tom's advise on a quick synopsis should bring you up-to-date post haste.

I join the rest of you in proposing a toast our beloved Veterans. They gave everything for keeping our values secure. As a retiree from the military (as is Tom), there is special meaning this holiday but none more "special" than being together with this great group of kindred souls sharing our liberties without fear or trepidation. So, for a quiet private moment, may we give these Heroes and Heroines a sober "God's speed" after your own fashion.

Nick I'm following your sage medical advise for "getting around more," it works!

Ruthy's B.S.A. Road Rocket seems to be unregistered. With all deference to our local authorities, I have contracted for a private investigation into her "mysterious" background Tom wisely noted previously. Oh, John (f-7 man) if this all seems terribly obtuse on a Classic Trains Forum, it will all "come together" as you review Tom's up-dates, without which, this thread could not function.

I must make this a "wrap," several holiday functions require my presence which I am honored to attend. Please, a round for all and when Boris is located, make it his favorite (Stolichanya with Bulgar Wheat on the side?). Happy rails to all.
===================================================
And as we remember what Memorial Day is all about, let us not forget the others who have willingly sacrificied themselves for the rest of us ....... Police and Firefighters along with the countless others, like the Merchant Mariners of wars gone by and so forth. Many, many souls to be thankful for ..........

Hoist your tankards high, mates, these people are responsible for the good things we all enjoy to this day!

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place and military veteran (1956-1988)

QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 28 May 2005, 20:28:20
Gentlemen ,your glasses please, For those that gave so that we wouldn`t have to,our thanks,you will not be forgotten. For those who returned to a lifetime of nightmares and memories that can never be shared,again,our thanks-You paid the price for the freedoms we all take for granted. In my book,you are all hero`s in the purest sense of the word

Well said, Mate!

QUOTE: trolleyboy
Posted: 29 May 2005, 01:00:23
good evening gentlemen.A shorter and less wordy version tonight. Some server problems oblitereated my earlier attempt.

tom Thank you for your elegant words of thanks for vets on both side of th 49th and both sides of the pond. Thank-you for also mentioning the police and fire Hero's as well. As a son of a retired PC that means allot. I also have a few serving and a few retired friends and family members from the CAF as well. I don't think any of us can thank them well enough or often enough.

*** I had an interesting conversation with my wife today. It seems that ten or so years ago one of your groups people was at our museum. I guess my wife gave him a tour o the premises. She was wondering if he was still in your organization Howard B bond was the name we still have the business card he gave Heather, just goes to show how small a world it really is. He gave Heather a couple of Post cards of your classic cars 189 & 636, quite a nice job on those restorations! When i get a chance to upload them we have some shots of SEPTA's last PCC runs in Philly, of coarse that's come full circle now as I hear that they are rehabilitating 24 PCC's and are do to(if they haven't already) starting up some new PCC service on their Third Street line with more soon to follow. Yes folks the juice isn't done yet.

Well it's late and I'm tired so I'm signing off for now. Everyone have a safe and good long weekend. Rob

My pleasure, Rob I really try to avoid mention of politics, national pride, and things of that nature on these forums …. However, there certainly are times when the exception rules the day – and the calendar is full of ‘em. Hopefully, there are sufficient numbers still left who will keep the rest reminded of the sacrifices made along the way to a free society.

See y’all later!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place

[trolleyboy]

good evening gentlemen.A shorter and less wordy version tonight. Some server problems oblitereated my earlier attempt.tom Thank you for your elegant words of thanks for vets on both side of th 49th and both sides of the pond.Thank-you for also mentioning the police and fire Hero's as well. as a son of a retired PC that means allot. I also have a few serving and a few retired friends and family members from the CAF as well.I don't think any of us can thank them well enough or often enough.*** I had an interesting conversation with my wife today. It seems that ten or so years ago one of your groups people was at our museum.I guess my wife gave him a tour o the premesis. She was wondering if he was still in your orginization Howard B bond ws the name we still have the businiess card he gave Heather, just goes to show how small a world it really is.He gave Heather a couple of Post cards of your classic cars 189 & 636, quite a nice job on those restorations! When i get a chance to upload them we have some shots of SEPTA's last PCC runs in Philly, of coarse that's come full circle now as I hear that they are rehabilitating 24 PCC's and are do to(if they haven't already) starting up some new PCC service on their THird Street line with more soon to follow. Yes folks the juice isn't done yet.Well it's late and I'm tired so I'm signing off for now.everyone have a safe a nd good long weekend. Rob

[nickinwestwales]

Gentlemen ,your glasses please, For those that gave so that we wouldn`t have to,our thanks,you will not be forgotten. For those who returned to a lifetime of nightmares and memories that can never be shared,again,our thanks-You paid the price for the freedoms we all take for granted. In my book,you are all hero`s in the purest sense of the word

[siberianmo]

QUOTE: Ted D. KramerPosted: 28 May 2005, 07:19:16
Hi everyone and a special welcome to John [f-7 man]. It may take a few minutes of your time but Tom's advise on a quick synopsis should bring you up-to-date post haste.

I join the rest of you in proposing a toast our beloved Veterans. They gave everything for keeping our values secure. As a retiree from the military (as is Tom), there is special meaning this holiday but none more "special" than being together with this great group of kindred souls sharing our liberties without fear or trepidation. So, for a quiet private moment, may we give these Heroes and Heroines a sober "God's speed" after your own fashion.

Nick I'm following your sage medical advise for "getting around more," it works!

Ruthy's B.S.A. Road Rocket seems to be unregistered. With all deference to our local authorities, I have contracted for a private investigation into her "mysterious" background Tom wisely noted previously. Oh, John (f-7 man) if this all seems terribly obtuse on a Classic Trains Forum, it will all "come together" as you review Tom's up-dates, without which, this thread could not function.

I must make this a "wrap," several holiday functions require my presence which I am honored to attend. Please, a round for all and when Boris is located, make it his favorite (Stolichanya with Bulgar Wheat on the side?). Happy rails to all.

And as we remember what Memorial Day is all about, let us not forget the others who have willingly sacrificied themselves for the rest of us ....... Police and Firefighters along with the countless others, like the Merchant Mariners of wars gone by and so forth. Many, many souls to be thankful for ..........

Hoist your tankards high, mates, these people are responsible for the good things we all enjoy to this day!

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place and military veteran (1956-1988)

[siberianmo]

What this thread is all about - "Classic Trains"

Hi guys! Time to get back on track around here ..... nothing wrong with some laughs - we have lots of those, along with some fantasy situations - several ongoing as a matter of fact. How about some "Classic Train" talk?

I'm looking at my Canadian Pacific - Stand Fast, Craigellachie! book by Greg McDonnell. Mr. McDonnell, according to the "jacket,"

QUOTE: ...... has spent a lifetime observing, photographing and writing about railroads. from watching CP Rail trains rumble past his home on Orr's Lake Hill, in Ontario, to tracking endangered Alcos in the deserts of Mexico, exploring obscure "boxcar branches" on the Saskatchewan prairie, and pacing Santa Fe hotshots along old Route 66, he travels extensively, pursuing his active interest in documenting all aspects of railroading. ......

I began a modest railroad library (only hard covers "allowed") about a year ago. I first started with railroads that I could "identify" with - pretty much the same logic used with my Can-Am HO layout; if I rode 'em - they are "allowed" on the pike (freights are the exception). Anyway, this library has grown a bit, and although I am more interested in passenger trains and diesels than anything else, there's much, much more in these great books.

Looking at the Canadian Pacific Railway map of 1934, the system stretched from Nova Scotia to British Columbia (Vancouver and Vancouver Island) and up to some far flung northern locations in Alberta and BC.

The "Craigellachie!" reference is steeped in Canadian railroading lore .... From the "Forward,"

QUOTE: We thought of Canadian Pacific, its history and its heritage. And what better way to evoke all that than to recall the clan Grant's rallying point in the old Scottish county of Banffshire. Or to recall that day, November 7, 1885, when Donald Smith drove the last spike in the Monashee Mountains of British Columbia, at a place also named after that "rock of alarm," Craigellachie!" [Robert J Ritchie, President & CEO Canadian Pacific Railways, June 6, 2003]

It should also be noted that as Mr. Ritchie wrote the "Forward," he did so on the 59th anniversary of Canadian troops landing at Juno Beach on D-Day, where so many made the supreme sacrifice for what turned out to be the foundation for a better world in the years to follow.

Note: In Canada, Remembrance Day is celebrated on the 11th hour of the 11 day of the 11th month. We call it Veteran's Day here in the U.S. - and since Canada does not have a "Memorial Day" as a separate holiday, let's also remember those who allied themselves during WWII to rid the world of European tyranny, as well as the ill fated conquest of Asia by the Japanese of another era.

I leave you with:
Stand Fast, Craigellachie,
Where they drove the last spike in;
To bind a vast Dominion,
To let a brand new day begin.
A whistle screams out of history,
As red diesels roll their loads,
Westbound to the Pacific,
On the rails of Van Horne's Road."
[From the song Craigellachie by Stan J. Smaill]
----------------------------------------------------------------

That's it for now! [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

[siberianmo]

QUOTE: nickinwestwalesPosted: 27 May 2005, 21:37:03
Well hey guys,,who wants another one!!-I`d better just step behind the counter for a bit whilst Tom has a well earned sit-down,did someone mention the Juke..?..How about some Chuck Berry & Eddie Cochran as its a friday night.....

TED-good to see you back amongst us,as I`m sure youre doctors have told you,a little gentle exercise of an evening is an important part of the process-so a stroll down to Our Place with Ruthie on her rare nights off can only do you good...enjoy..

Now as to the mystery of.... I`m not sure if you are all aware,but Zoe,Chloe & cousin Ruthie are all distaff descendants of "Sonny" Barger,president of the Hells Angels motorcycle club,and as such,`biker girls` to their roots....Zoe has a Harley Shovelhead, Chloe,a Norton Commando Interstate and the lovely Ruthie a B.S.A Road Rocket,this being the case they tend to stick together,as one might expect. It seems that Ruthies eagerness to take on `extra shifts` at the C.S was partly to help out family but mostly to keep Boris out of her "Victoria`s Secret" saturday night specials--He will have to be spoken to again,this time with violence......

Hi to all the Trolley fans,a whole new thing happening here-ROB & others,thanks for posting pix-gives us novices something to tie the posts to,particulaly me cos I`m 3000 miles away and never seen most of this stuff before.

O.K.-another round for the house before I go,

Welcome F7,take a seat and relax,apologies to anyone I`ve missed--Steak Night tomorrow,where`s that left over pizza...............

Tom,-What would you say the chances are of getting a taxi from Our Place to West Wales at this time of night.....yup, I tend to agree,oh well-Its the moonlight mile for me again,sweet dreams one and all!!!! nick

Hello Nick - We've just got to get you over to this side of the pond ... these time zones are killers ......

Okay, let me see IF I can get this all straight regarding The Mystery of Ruthie -
(1) I hired her, along with the other three gals a few days before my departure for Canada.
(2) Nick revealed their names right before I left.
(3) Upon my return, they were made permanent staff due to the overwhelming acceptance by the gang here at "Our" Place and the increase in business.
(4) Right around the time of "The Coffee Shop" 1st Anniversary/Birthday Party, Ruthie shows up over there.
(5) Trolleyboy Rob says:

QUOTE: Also I may have been the one who inadvertenty had Ruthie hire on at the CS. Sh'e only there to spell off the twins which whom she is apparently the first cousin. Not to worry though her allegiances are to us (I've been paying her CS salary) BTW you pay much better,and she is here for all our busy Thurs,Fri, & Sat festivities.

(6) Based on #5, we are informed of a genetic link between Ruthie and the "twins" over at the CS.
(7) Nick adds:

QUOTE: Now as to the mystery of.... I`m not sure if you are all aware,but Zoe,Chloe & cousin Ruthie are all distaff descendants of "Sonny" Barger,president of the Hells Angels motorcycle club,and as such,`biker girls` to their roots....Zoe has a Harley Shovelhead, Chloe,a Norton Commando Interstate and the lovely Ruthie a B.S.A Road Rocket,this being the case they tend to stick together,as one might expect. It seems that Ruthies eagerness to take on `extra shifts` at the C.S was partly to help out family but mostly to keep Boris out of her "Victoria`s Secret" saturday night specials--He will have to be spoken to again,this time with violence......

(8) Based on #7, we now know that the gals are all related to some bad blood and are Biker Gals to the core ....... Ruthie apparently needed a break from the rigors of putting up with Boris along with some other understandable personal reasons took on work at the CS.

Okay - before the EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (aka: Kangaroo Court) hears this case, we first must read the report of Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary. I've since found out that HE is a CLOSE relative of one Boris, employee of "Our" Place. Further, the Inspector has been known to ride side cars at high speeds over rail crossings thereby having been ejected on several occasions onto the roadside and roadbed - on his head, of course.

Ahhhhhhhh, the THLOT PICKENS ..... more to follow! [:-,]

Regarding that taxi to West Wales, why not just take the RDC out back .... one should be coming along any time now - haven't you heard about the Atlantic tunnel? Comes ashore somewhere in Ireland - then over to your neck of the woods - through England to the Chunnel. Quite a work, indeed. Hey! Anything's possible in this cyber world of ours .......... [tup] [;)]

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone and a special welcome to John [f-7 man]. It may take a few minutes of your time but Tom's advise on a quick synopsis should bring you up-to-date post haste. I join the rest of you in proposing a toast our beloved Veterans. They gave everything for keeping our values secure. As a retiree from the military (as is Tom), there is special meaning this holiday but none more "special" than being together with this great group of kindred souls sharing our liberties without fear or trepidation. So, for a quiet private moment, may we give these Heroes and Heroines a sober "God's speed" after your own fashion.

Nick I'm following your sage medical advise for "getting around more," it works! Ruthy's B.S.A. Road Rocket seems to be unregistered. With all deference to our local authorities, I have contracted for a private investigation into her "mysterious" background Tom wisely noted previously. Oh, John (f-7 man) if this all seems terribly obtuse on a Classic Trains Forum, it will all "come together" as you review Tom's up-dates, without which, this thread could not function.

I must make this a "wrap," several holiday functions require my presence which I am honored to attend. Please, a round for all and when Boris is located, make it his favorite (Stolichanya with Bulgar Wheat on the side?). Happy rails to all.

[nickinwestwales]

Well hey guys,,who wants another one!!-I`d better just step behind the counter for a bit whilst Tom has a well earned sit-down,did someone mention the Juke..?..How about some Chuck Berry & Eddie Cochran as its a friday night.....TED-good to see you back amongst us,as I`m sure youre doctors have told you,a little gentle exercise of an evening is an important part of the process-so a stroll down to Our Place with Ruthie on her rare nights off can only do you good...enjoy..Now as to the mystery of....I`m not sure if you are all aware,but Zoe,Chloe & cousin Ruthie are all distaff descendants of "Sonny" Barger,president of the Hells Angels motorcycle club,and as such,`biker girls` to their roots....Zoe has a Harley Shovelhead,Chloe,a Norton Commando Interstate and the lovely Ruthie a B.S.A Road Rocket,this being the case they tend to stick together,as one might expect. It seems that Ruthies eagerness to take on `extra shifts` at the C.S was partly to help out family but mostly to keep Boris out of her "Victoria`s Secret" saturday night specials--He will have to be spoken to again,this time with violence...... Hi to all the Trolley fans,a whole new thing happening here-ROB & others,thanks for posting pix-gives us novices something to tie the posts to,particulaly me cos I`m 3000 miles away and never seen most of this stuff before. O.K.-another round for the house before I go,Welcome F7,take a seat and relax,apologies to anyone I`ve missed--Steak Night tomorrow,where`s that left over pizza...............Tom,-What would you say the chances are of getting a taxi from Our Place to West Wales at this time of night.....yup, I tend to agree,oh well-Its the moonlight mile for me again,sweet dreams one and all!!!! nick

[siberianmo]

QUOTE: CFournier Posted: Today, 09:46:46
Hi TOM, and all the others, especially TED, take care my friend, I'm sure that with your good humor and your wit (and with good medical treatment, of course) you will get over that unfortunate period of your life. Hope i'm not depressing you right now... If you need a little fresh air, take Ruth out for a spin on my bike, it's parked behind Our Place .
Looks like we are getting more and more customers from the Coffee Shop across the tracks. I used to hang out there for a while before Our Place opened, but couldn't keep up reading all the posts every day! There was like 2, 3 or 4 pages of new conversation to catch up every time I would pop up on the site! It was good stuff but I didn't have the time to read OR answer...
Tom, up there on this page I said 25th of july...no answer?
Chris in the cloudy North

So, Ruthie is a Biker Gal, hmmmmmm …… why not? Just be careful Ted she’s under investigation by Inspector Clueless of the local Constabulary. Never know just where she’ll lead you …….
Yeah, we’ve seen a few guys pop in from “The Coffee Shop,” and we’re glad they did. I share your observation regarding the time it takes to play “catch up” with the posts on such an active thread. “Our” Place is a much slower pace - and I do hope my “Summariies” help out with the reading ……..
Enjoy the weekend! [tup]

QUOTE: trolleyboyPosted: 27 May 20005, 11:30:30
Morning everyone.
Ted I don't have any info on your parking lot trolley though that sounds like an interesting service,I would have liked to have seen that.I'm hoping that *** might be able to shed more ligth on that for you.
Speaking of shed's Nick why are there chains holding the shed door shut? Did Boris get into the rubbing alcohol again? I digress anyway
Ted I'd love to see some of that info on the birney clones, I /we at the museum had heard several stories but none of us have witnessed them first hand.
Tom root canals can be awful or no trouble at all hope yours falls into the later category. Of coarse my non-dental opinion is that if it's a tooth you can't see why not just have it pulled lot less muss and fuss and a heck of allot cheaper. Also I may have been the one who inadvertently had Ruthie hire on at the CS. Sh'e only there to spell off the twins which whom she is apparently the first cousin.Not to worry though her allegiances are to us (I've been paying her CS salary) BTW you pay much better ,and she is here for all our busy Thurs,Fri,&Sat festivities.
*** here's a shot of the weston Road Niles car the museum had. Sorry the photo's black and white I think from the late Forties. The cars were retired in 48. I'm not sure of the exact timing on this picure because I had purchased it at a train show years ago in a shoebox of parts and odd'sn'sods. Well gang I'm off for now catch you all later. Rob

Appears as if the root canal procedure went well – no adverse after effects. This was a “critical” tooth in my aging mouth, not for cosmetic purposes at all. Had ‘em go the other way a time or two, and that is a very painful experience. Have to “down” a lot of “Jack” as pain killer!
The Mystery of Ruthie is discussed below ……. However, sounds like you’ve got a rather plausible story, but – Investigator Clueless of the local Constabulary will have his report done soon …….

QUOTE: trolleyboyPosted: 27 May 2005, 11:38:27
*** you will see that the weston car was a wood / metal combination construction. When the Toronto Civic had them built in the early teens all steal cars were still a rairity.Once the TTC was formed in 1921 they used these cars on westen road and port credit and rush hours on the Dundas street line all of which were stub ended hence the cars were double ended units. By the 30's and 43's whitt's had bumped them off everything but rush hour service and indeed many of them the one we had included were converted to snowscrappers. This is the main reason as to why they bodies and frames were deteriorated to the point of non]restoration which is why we had to scrap ours.Which unfortunatly was the only survivor of the class(if you could call it surviving) later Rob

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 May 2005, 13:46:12
SPECIAL for CHRIS
QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 26 May 2005, 15:21:41
..... BTW, my 51st birthday, this year, will be celebrated on july the 25 th. ...... Chris, stuck in a rainy north country...

QUOTE: CFournier 27 May 2005, 09:46:46
..... Tom, up there on this page I said 25th of july...no answer? Chris in the cloudy North
===================================
That's a GOTCHA on me! My apologies ... must have been one of my increasing SENIOR MOMENTS!

2005 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST revised:
May 18th (Tom - 67) – July 15th (*** – 65) - July 25th (Chris - 51) - August 16th (Ted - 67) - September 8th (Rob - 34)

C'mon guys - let's have thoses dates & ages!

Drinks on me, Chris [tup] [;)]
Tom

QUOTE: CFournierPosted: 27 May 2005, 14:22:39
Tom,
No offense taken...

To our American patrons, have a good long Memorial Day weekend,

Tomorrow is Benchwork Day for me...Tackling the SP yard in S.F...
Chris in the partially cloudy North (weather as been s*** here in the last month)

Thanx and enjoy your weekend too! [tup] [;)]

QUOTE: trolleyboyPosted: 27 May 2005, 14:42:18
Chris i know what you mean about the weather,been "craptacular" to say the least. Happy bench working
BTW. Tom I see you missed the Ruthie explanation either that or I have a nasty e-mail comming LOL I'll pass it off on "novacane" brain.
*** I've dug out a couple of PCC shot's for you.These are two of the three 4600 series that the museum purchased in the 90's (4600,11, and 18). All were to have been used on the rebuilt harbour front line but after two or three months of service the"condo yuppies) complained about the squeeling wheels on the return loops so the PCC's were retired and sold off (18 4600's had been rebuilt for this line) I imagine depending on the time frame that you folks purchased your cars they would have been the same rebuilt batch.A happy sidenote is the CLRV's and ALRV's that run this line now are just as squeaky. And the yuppies still complain,but are now ignored as they know the alternative is pating for parking in the downtown core which is a far more unpleasant thing. Have a good night guy's. Rob

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 May 2005, 14:58:15
Hey Rob - I've been catching up on my reading - ever since I blew the birthday post for Chris, I've been checking to ensure that other submissions haven't been ignored .......

THE MYSTERY OF RUTHIE ......... So, you are confessing? And so quickly? Hmmmmm, a conspiracy afoot, perhaps? Before this goes to the EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (aka: Kangaroo Court), we must be certain of the facts and attendant circumstances (sounds legal enough to me }

Now, here's the deal: She must be returned to "Our" Place - no moonllighting, no split affections. Make it happen, and you're off the hook.

Ruthie, Ruthie, Ruthie ...... was it something we said? Done? Ah – Boris must have had a hand in I(or on) this ........ Perhaps Associate Justice Nick will enlighten us with his learned opinion of the "facts" thus far .......

To be continued .......

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place

QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 27 May 2005, 18:36:23
Captain Tom, I can't begin to express my heart felt appreciation for the gratuitous bar "stool" amidst this august guild. I have taken the liberty of bringing along safety belts knowing that I'm "hanging on by the skin of my teeth" just as a listener.
Rob, and any others into street rails, this is a web site for more on Teco here in Tampa: www.tecolinestreetcar.org. [813-223-6831, weekdays]. The Bernie Clones were mfg. by Gomaco Trolly Co., Ida Grove, Iowa. All, except one "Dinky" (single truck), are replicas of the double truck version of the "Safety Car." There is only a cosmetic similarity as these "Clones" are air conditioned and have "cutting edge" signaling and wireless communications.

I suppose the agenda was to build a tourist venue much like the New Orleans' famed St Charles-Canal run. I can tell you that the Teco's financial straits are tenuous at best with several law suits pending. Wish I could stay longer, luxuriating in this secure and venerated stool but I have an appointment with a private investigator as to a certain "person of interest's" identity who shall remain anonymous pending further developments. Boris please, bring all 'round bar from me. Danka

Safety belts? Now that’s a thought ……. Surprised those stools don’t come with “warning labels,” just about everything else in society has ‘em!
Really pleased to have you “around” again …. Sure wasn’t the same without your commentary! Enjoy the weekend, my friend ……. [tup] [;)]

QUOTE: f-7 manPosted: 27 May 2005, 19:51:01
Hello Tom;
Put me down for place #1,and a hot order of onion rings. As for my favorite classics, I am fond of alcos and F units.
John

Well, first [#welcome] aboard! Glad you chose “Our” Place to begin your Forum’s experiences …… First drink is on the house around here and the onion rings are on the way … this being Friday night, take advantage of our pizza special and of course the steak & fries.
You’ve got lots to review on these pages ….. by the way, the voting closed back in mid-April! Place #1 was the winner …. So you have good taste – it was unanimous! [tup] [;)]
Again – welcome and in order to better understand and get up the “leariing curve” on this thread, start at Page 1 and enjoy! You will note “Summary” pages in b lue that appear about midway through the pages … that is my way of helpling with the reading for those needing to catch up …… Keep in mind that we’re a Classic Trains forum – so anything you want to talk to us about in that subject area is fine with us! [tup]

See ya! [tup] [;)]
================================================
Okay guys, let’s get this Friday rolling – drop a few of those quarters from the jar over there in the Juke Box – 5 plays for a quarter, lots of “period” selections (1950’s) along with some of the more modern stuff into the 70’s .

Tom[ (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

[Anonymous]

Hello Tom;
Put me down for place #1,and a hot order of onion rings. As for my favorite classics, I am fond of alcos and F units.
John .

[Anonymous]

Captain Tom, I can't begin to express my heart felt appreciation for the gratuitous bar "stool" amidst this august guild. I have taken the liberty of bringing along safety belts knowing that I'm "hanging on by the skin of my teeth" just as a listener. Rob, and any others into street rails, this is a web site for more on Teco here in Tampa: www.tecolinestreetcar.org. [813-223-6831, weekdays]. The Bernie Clones were mfg. by Gomaco Trolly Co., Ida Grove, Iowa. All, except one "Dinky" (single truck), are replicas of the double truck version of the "Safety Car." There is only a cosmetic similarity as these "Clones" are air conditioned and have "cutting edge" signaling and wireless communications.

I suppose the agenda was to build a tourist venue much like the New Orleans' famed St Charles-Canal run. I can tell you that the Teco's financial straits are tenuous at best with several law suits pending. Wish I could stay longer, luxuriating in this secure and venerated stool but I have an appointment with a private investigator as to a certain "person of interest's" identity who shall remain anonymous pending further developments. Boris please, bring all 'round bar from me. Danka

[siberianmo]

Hey Rob - I've been catching up on my reading - ever since I blew the birthday post for Chris, I've been checking to ensure that other submissions haven't been ignored ....... [:(!]

THE MYSTERY OF RUTHIE ......... So, you are confessing? And so quickly? Hmmmmm, a conspiracy afoot, perhaps? Before this goes to the EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (aka: Kangaroo Court), we must be certain of the facts and attendant circumstances (sounds legal enough to me [?]}

Now, here's the deal: She must be returned to "Our" Place - no moonllighting, no split affections. Make it happen, and you're off the hook. [}:)]

Ruthie, Ruthie, Ruthie ...... was it something we said? Done? Ah - Boris must have had a hand in I(or on) this ........ Perhaps Associate Justice Nick will enlighten us with his learned opinion of the "facts" thus far .......

To be continued ....... [:-,]

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place

[trolleyboy]

Chris i know what you mean about the weather,been "craptacular" to say the least. Happy bench working BTW. Tom I see you missed the ruthie explination either that or I have a nasty e-mail comming LOL I'll pass it off on "novacane" brain.*** I've dug out a couple of PCC shot's for you.These are two of the three 4600 series that the museum purchased in the 90's (4600,11, and 18). All were to have been used on the rebuilt harbour front line but after two or three months of service the"condo yuppies) complained about the squeeling wheels on the return loops so the PCC's were retired and sold off (18 4600's had been rebuilt for this line) I imagine depending on the time frame that you folks purchased your cars they would have been the same rebuilt batch.A happy sidenote is the CLRV's and ALRV's that run this line now are just as squeaky. And the yuppies still complain,but are now ignored as they know the alternative is pating for parking in the downtown core which is a far more unpleasant thing. Have a good night guy's. Rob

[CFournier]

Tom,
No offense taken...
[:D]
To our american patrons, have a good long Memorial Day weekend,
[4:-)]
Tomorrow is Benchwork Day for me...Tackling the SP yard in S.F...
Chris in the partially cloudy North (weather as been s*** here in the last month)[xx(][:D]

[siberianmo]

SPECIAL for CHRIS

QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 26 May 2005, 15:21:41
..... BTW, my 51st birthday, this year, will be celebrated on july the 25 th. ...... Chris, stuck in a rainy north country...

QUOTE: CFournier 27 May 2005, 09:46:46
..... Tom, up there on this page I said 25th of july...no answer? Chris in the cloudy North

That's a GOTCHA on me! [8] My apologies ... must havew been one of my increasing SENIOR MOMENTS! [;)]

2005 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST revised:
May 18th (Tom - 67) – July 15th (*** – 65) - July 25th (Chris - 51) - August 16th (Ted - 67) - September 8th (Rob - 34)

C'mon guys - let's have thoses dates & ages!

Drinks on me, Chris [tup] [;)]
Tom

[trolleyboy]

*** you will see that the weston car was a wood / metal combination construction. When the Toronto Civic had them built in the early teens all steal cars were still a rairity.Once the TTC was formed in 1921 they used these cars on westen road and port credit and rush hours on the Dundas street line all of which were stub ended hence the cars were double ended units. By the 30's and 43's whitt's had bumped them off everything but rush hour service and indeed many of them the one we had included were converted to snowscrappers. This is the main reason as to why they bodies and frames were deteriorated to the point of non]restoration which is why we had to scrap ours.Which unfortunatly was the only survivor of the class(if you could call it surviving) later Rob

[trolleyboy]

Morning everyone.Ted I don't have any info on your parking lot trolley though that sounds like an interesting service,I would have liked to have seen that.I'm hoping that *** might be able to shed more ligth on that for you.Speaking of shed's Nick why are there chains holding the shed door shut? Did Boris get into the rubbing alcohol again? I digress anyway Ted I'd love to see some of that info on the birney clones,I /we at the museum had heard several stories but none of us have witnessed them first hand.Tom[i] root canals[i] can be awfull or no trouble at all hope yours falls into the later category. Of coasre my non-dental opinion is that if it's a tooth you can't see why not just have it pulled lot less muss and fuss and a heck of allot cheaper. Also I may have been the one who inadvertaintly had Ruthie hire on at the CS. Sh'e only there to spell off the twins which whom she is apparently the first cousin.Not to worry though her allegences are to us(I've been paying her CS salarey) BTW you pay much better[swg][:-^][:-^],and she is here for all our busy Thurs,Fri,&Sat festivities.*** here's a shot of the weston Road Niles car the museum had. Sorry the photo's black and white I think from the late Forties. The cars were retired in 48. I'm not sure of the exact timing on this picure because I had purchased it at a train show years ago in a shoebox of parts and odd'sn'sods. Well gang I'm off for now catsh you all later. Rob

[CFournier]

Hi TOM, and all the others, especially TED, take care my friend, I'm sure that with your good humor and your wit (and with good medical treatment, of course) you will get over that unfortunate period of your life. Hope i'm not depressing you right now...[;)] If you need a little fresh air, take Ruth out for a spin on my bike, it's parked behind Our Place[8D].
Looks like we are getting more and more customers from the Coffee Shop across the tracks. I used to hang out there for a while before Our Place opened, but couldn't keep up reading all the posts every day! There was like 2, 3 or 4 pages of new conversation to catch up every time I would pop up on the site! It was good stuff but I didn't have the time to read OR answer...[:)]
Tom, up there on this page I said 25th of july...no answer?
Chris in the cloudy North

[siberianmo]

THE MYSTERY OF RUTHIE
Way back when ..... at the time when I announced that four lovely gals were going to tend bar in my absence (before my Canadian rail adventure on page 8), Nick came along and provided the redhead, blonde, brunette and raven haired beauty with names Ruth, Ann, Lucy, Jemima (page 8). Of course, the ordering of names coincides with the ordering of hair color.

Somewhere along the line, one of OUR gals wound up over in "The Coffee Shop" on the Model Railroaders forum. This took place shortly before the 1st Anniversary/Birthday party for the "Shop." The gal's name is Ruthie. Now, the "Shop" NEVER had a Ruthie until ONE OF OUR VERY OWN either mistakenly, or deliberately ([:(]) introduced OUR Ruthie to the guys over in the "Shop." Today, she has become a regular - not here - but there!

So, what to do, what to do?

I'm opened to suggestions and of course an act or two of contrition from the "guilty party." [}:)]

Tom

[siberianmo]

SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 26 May 2005, 22:52:09
Good evening patrons. Nick if it's still available I'll partake of the red snapper and a Guiness. Ted Here's to a quick and complete recovery my friend, thanks for the offer of Nick's dinner,your goodself and Ruthie are more than welcome to partake with us, we can put it off to a later date once you are feeling better.

*** You are so right about the older equipment, simple strait electric motors and parts just keep giving and it's suprising how few things really wear out. In our museums case we don't have to worry about automotive interaction both loops and all the yards and mainline are enclosed in our property(insurance is much cheaper this way,not that it is cheap!) I've a speacial spot in my heart for Niles products they were well built but not completly indfadigable.It's a must to have your cars even the basket cases under cover sun and weather are murder on the metal and paint.Your climate isn't quite as harsh but the sooner you get them indoors the better. We had one niles product a former Toronto Civic line(one of the TTC predisessors) a 200 series what was refered to as a weston road car. We had to scrap it unfortunatly about ten years ago it was beyond reasonable restoration. It would have been a complete remanufacture using the original as a template beyond our skills and resources. Due to the roadsalt use in TO. Even some of our PCC's require continuous body work to reverse the salt erosion on their bodies and frames. I'm assuming that your group is a non-profit charity type group like ourselves. In our case all volunteer, major capital expences have to be raised through donation.some grants are available but governments make us jump through hoops for them and when we get them they usually have stipulations as to what type of "work" they can be used for. One good one we get every summer allows us to hire three or four students to run the giftshop,do grounds work and do some tour guide work. Currently our big push is to get our final car barn #4 built. When complete all of our outside stored cars can finally have a warm dry home. estimates are $325,000 to errect, we are about 2/3 rds of the way there so in our cases all donations are gladly excepted as well. If you are a canadian citizen all monies donated are tax deduction claimable as we are a registered charity.We're hoping to begin construction late summer or early fall on the Beck building,so wish us luck.

Well gents i'm off for now all talk to you all tomorrow.

Ted remember we are pulling for you stiff upper lip and all that,seriously don't be affraid to confide in us, we are here to support you. Rob

All well said, Rob! I KNEW you'd be here with some insights based on those previous posts ....... [tup] [;)]

QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 27 May 2005, 06:17:03
At the risk of my lapsing into mountainous waves of self-pity, may I just say thank you so much for your kind best wishes. It means a lot. I'll do my best to check in from time to time and rest assured that I am following "Our" Place with the same zeal as ever. My attendance may be spare but enthusiasm will remain stedfast.

One question I have for ***, Rob and our other "juice freaks:" Is it the Hydrocodone or is my sieve like memory for a shuttle street car running from Nieman-Markus parking lot (downtown Dallas) to the main building a true "blast from the past?" While in the traction mode, if anyone would like data on the double truck Bernie Clones here in Tampa, I will be happy to send along what I have.

Hey, sorry I can't join in with a "Royal" and Jamaican Blue! You can well appreciate what halucinations might ensue in tandem with these "La La Land" potions already present in what's left of this physiological "train wreck." Thank you again, until next time. Happy rails, Ted

Ted Glad you stopped by .... yes, that's YOUR stool .... enjoy the conversation ........ [tup] [;)]

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 27 May 2005, 07:20:38
Tom Just a quick coffee and short conversation and i'll be on my way.
Big Plans for the memorial day weekend Will be checking out the former Northwestern Pacific all the way to Eureka at least and maybe to the end of line. It will depend on all of those other drivers on the highways this busy weekend..
Let's not forget what Memorial day is really all about and I don't mean the Indy 500.

To all the families of those who gave their lives in past wars and conflicts, Thank You! To all of the veterans who will remember their fallen comrades in arms this weekend I will join you in a toast. It seems like we all knew or lost special friends in places spread around the world.

And let us not forget great leaders who made America strong and emerge as the only remaining Super Power, particularly the late great President Ronald Reagan. Memorial day means many things to many people .

Thanks for letting me share with you my thoughts this morning at the beginning of Memorial Day 2005. Thx Al

Al Your comments and mine of yesterday "say it all" ...... Enjoy the Memorial Day weekend, providing of course we all take into account exactly what sacrifices were made for us (and are still being made) in order for our society to thrive. Looking forward to your "report" of your railroading this weekend .......

See y'all ....... I'm off to the dentist - root canal day! [:(!] Feeling FINE right now, I just know that's soon to change .......

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

[passengerfan]

Tom Just a quick coffee and short conversation and i'll be on my way.
Big Plans for the memorial day weekend Will be checking out the former Northwestern Pacific all the way to Eureka at least and maybe to the end of line. It will depend on all of those other drivers on the highways this busy weekend..
Let's not forget what Memorial day is really all about and I don't mean the Indy 500.
To all the families of those who gave their lives in past wars and conflicts, Thank You! To all of the veterans who will remember their fallen comrades in arms this weekend I will join you in a toast. It seems like we all knew or lost special friends in places spread around the world.
And let us not forget great leaders who made Ameraica strong and emeerge as the only remaining Super Power, particularly the late great President Ronald Reagan. Memorial day means many things to many people . Thanks for letting me share with you my thoughts this morning at the beginning of Memorial Day 2005. Thx Al

[Anonymous]

At the risk of my lapsing into mountainous waves of self-pity, may I just say thank you so much for your kind best wishes. It means a lot. I'll do my best to check in from time to time and rest assured that I am following "Our" Place with the same zeal as ever. My attendance may be spare but enthusiasm will remain stedfast.

One question I have for ***, Rob and our other "juice freaks:" Is it the Hydrocodone or is my sieve like memory for a shuttle street car running from Nieman-Markus parking lot (downtown Dallas) to the main building a true "blast from the past?" While in the traction mode, if anyone would like data on the double truck Bernie Clones here in Tampa, I will be happy to send along what I have.

Hey, sorry I can't join in with a "Royal" and Jamaican Blue! You can well appreciate what halucinations might ensue in tandem with these "La La Land" potions already present in what's left of this physiological "train wreck." Thank you again, until next time. Happy rails, Ted

[trolleyboy]

Good evening patrons. Nick if it's still available I'll partake of the red snapper and a Guiness.TedHere's to a quick and complete recovery my friend, thanks for the offer of Nick's dinner,your goodself and Ruthie are more than welcome to partake with us, we can put it off to a later date once you are feeling better. *** You are so right about the older equipment, simple strait electric motors and parts just keep giving and it's suprising how few things really wear out. In our museums case we don't have to worry about automotive interaction both loops and all the yards and mainline are enclosed in our property(insurance is much cheaper this way,not that it is cheap!) I've a speacial spot in my heart for Niles products they were well built but not completly indfadigable.It's a must to have your cars even the basket cases under cover sun and weather are murder on the metal and paint.Your climate isn't quite as harsh but the sooner you get them indoors the better. We had one niles product a former Toronto Civic line(one of the TTC predisessors) a 200 series what was refered to as a weston road car. We had to scrap it unfortunatly about ten years ago it was beyond reasonable restoration. It would have been a complete remanufacture using the original as a template beyond our skills and resources. Due to the roadsalt use in TO. Even some of our PCC's require continuous body work to reverse the salt erosion on their bodies and frames. I'm assuming that your group is a non-profit charity type group like ourselves. In our case all volunteer, major capital expences have to be raised through donation.some grants are available but governments make us jump through hoops for them and when we get them they usually have stipulations as to what type of "work" they can be used for. One good one we get every summer allows us to hire three or four students to run the giftshop,do grounds work and do some tour guide work. Currently our big push is to get our final car barn #4 built. When complete all of our outside stored cars can finally have a warm dry home. estimates are $325,000 to errect, we are about 2/3 rds of the way there so in our cases all donations are gladly excepted as well. If you are a canadian citizen all monies donated are tax deduction claimable as we are a registered charity.We're hoping to begin construction late summer or early fall on the Beck building,so wish us luck. Well gents i'm off for now all talk to you all tomorrow. Ted remember we are pulling for you stiff upper lip and all that,seriously don't be affraid to confide in us, we are here to support you. Rob

[siberianmo]

SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

QUOTE: wrwatkins Posted: 26 May 2005, 11:30:06
God mornin Y'all. That's Texan, my adopted state. I will partake of the light breakfast and sip on the French Blend coffee. Save the good stuff until later.

Tom- Our trip is all together. We plan to stay two mights in each of the following: Halifax, Sydney, Sackville, and Charlottetown. Are their any trains today on PEI?

Since we have a few juice freaks on board (me included) I thought I would spin a yarn about MATA. Mata has five operating trolley cars, the two PCCs, a charter dining car under restoration, and a few basket cases awaiting restoration. See our web page for all of the gory details. Do a search for McKinney Avenue Transit Authority as there are about 5 sites.

There used to be a free trolley in Fort Worth. It originally was built by Leonard's Department store to carry shoppers from the parking lot to their store. The line was about 1/2 mile long. Leonards are out of business, and Tandy Corp (Radio Shack) has their corporate offices at the site of the Leonards store and ran the trolley for workers and tennants in Tandy Center. Unfortunately Tandy decided to build a larger office building on the parking lot so the trolley was shut down.

The trolleys were former PCC cars which Tandy "modernized" to look like new boxy equipment including two headlights. Controls were at each end as the Tandy line was stub at both ends. Fortunately they were air conditioned. It tends to get a little hot in Texas during the summer. Tandy had 3-4 of the "modernized" PCCs. I do not know the exact number.

When they shut down we bought one of the trolleys plus a wealth of parts for them. We wanted to buy more, but the rivalry between Dallas and Fort Worth only let us buy one. We upgraded several items on the cars and reverted to the single headlight. We still kept the box like shape as parts were not available to revert to the PCC design. We call her Winny, as she looks like a Winnabago. Not true vintage, but air conditioned and has rubber inserts in the wheels for a smoother quieter ride.

***

Sorry I missed you earlier ..... No trains on PEI (no doubt passengerfan Al will pick up on this and provide the details ...... Glad your trip is coming together and if there's anything further I can do to help, you know the Email address!
Tom

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 26 May 2005, 13:36:10
QUOTE: JimRCGMO Posted: 26 May 2005, 10:33:46
Good morning, Tom - decided I needed to pop in for a quick one before running my errands (which are before I go to work today at 1...). I'm not wild about beer, but if you have wine, I'll have a port - or if you don't, give me a run and Coke!

Didn't get through all the posts so it may be already decided, but my vote would be for place #1, just because I'm from the Midwest (Missouri), and that place, with the wide porches, looks more like Midwest to me.

Well, I'll try to make it back in later. BTW, my layout is freelance (fictional), in the late 1950's, connecting Cortez, CO and Shiprock, NM (and connects to D&RGW at Farmington, NM) and from there through the Chuska Mountains and down sort of paralleling the Navajo Reservation Road 191 southward until it connects to the (AT&SF) Santa Fe in Holbrook, AZ. Just starting on two 2'X4' modules which will later be part of a layout when I have a more permanent place than my apartment.

Blessings,

Jim in Cape Girardeau
=====================================
Is it REALLY Cape Jim? to "Our" Place - and the first drink (port) is on the house ......

Thanx for your vote - however - it closed in mid-April. Place #1 was the runaway winner - it was unanimous - you have good taste!

"Our" Place is for rail enthusiasts to talk about the "classic" trains that they've traveled aboard or simply know about. Not that we have a prohibition regarding model railroaders - we don't - but the gist is to keep on track with the "classics" - real OR model. How's that for a compromise?

I should mention to those of you who haven't done so, take a browse through "The Coffee Shop" over on the Model Railroads forum - some great interaction goes on over there as well as some helpful info and pictures. It's easy to get "lost" in time at the "Shop."

Thanx for the visit and I hope we see you 'round here soon ........

Tom (Siberianmo)

QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 26 May 2005, 15:21:41
Hello to all of you. Sorry for having been away so long. A cup of that black coffee for me...s'il vous plait.
I've been busy at work and my 6 years old engineer, (named Thomas!) had high fever and was sick for a few days. I got him a Bachman Hogwart Express with 2 passenger cars ( a classic???) and he has been busy since then, switching with "Thomas, James, Annie and Clarabel", (hi, Nick!)
BTW, my 51st birthday, this year, will be celebrated on july the 25 th.
As for "Classic trains", I have tried for weeks now to gather a good story or anecdote to tell you guys, but, unfortunately, in my youth I didn't travel much at all and the steam era was over by the time I was 4! I can remember tramways and trolley buses but that's it! I do enjoy the stories that this learned congregation of Our Place's patrons deliver from time to time I was raised near a CP yard and saw many classic paint schemes and Alco and MLW locos run by me playing near the tracks.
I have to run now. I'll be back tonight to drive lil' Annie home...
Chris, stuck in a rainy north country...

[#welcome] back, Chris Long time, no see. Gotta take care of the homefront first - everything falls into place after that.

For those who may not know (or recall), Chris was our FIRST customer. That deserves special recognition - so, see that stool right over there? The one you usually use - well, it's YOURS each and every time you frequent "Our" Place! [tup] [;)]

Tom

QUOTE: wrwatkins Posted: 26 May 2005, 15:56:0923
Good afternoon guys. I will skip on the lunch fare and just have a cup of java. Just got back from the monthly board meeting of MATA. We are minutes away from getting all of the approvals in line for our extension along the Nasher Sculpture Garden (well worth visiting) ending at the Pearl Street light rail station. Exciting days lie ahead.

I would like to correct a couple facts I mentioned earlier. The Tandy company had 6 operatable "modernized" PCC cars in Fort Worth. In addition to the three basket cases we have stored outside (unfortunately) we have our Carpenter car (so named because John Carpenter, former chairman of TU Electric donated it to us) being rebuilt in Tampa by Edwards Car Co. Total cost ex air conditioning and trucks is $196,000. We are into phase three with an additional $40,000 being required for Edwards to finish it. (Donations are always welcome) We did not send the trucks (heavy) as we rehabbed them in house. The air conditioning we can install cheaper than Edwards. This car should be operational about February. That will give us 6 operational vintage cars in service. The vintage 1910 cars are essentially built of cast iron like a battleship. When we have an altercation with an auto the auto ALWAYS looses, both physically and legally. These vintage cars rarely fail in service. Talking with our compatriots with San Francisco Muni they say the vintage cars on the F Line have far fewer problems than the new modern all electronic cars. Maybe Brill and Niles knew somethng that died off when the closed up shop.

***

Hey *** - Good to see you again and thanx for your continuing input. I'll bet trolleyboy Rob picks up on this one! While I'm interested in trolleys, I know very little about them- but sure am learning quickly! [:D]

Tom

QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 26 May 2005, 18:58:31
Hey Tom,best have a quick one to wet the whistle before the evening rush,batter is mixed and `resting`,fish is washed & ready to flour,chips are blanched, Boris is in the shed under restraint,all systems go...........

On a more serious note,may I add my voice to the chorus raising a glass and wishing TED a speedy and complete recovery (will send you a message off-forum r.e our take out catering & some other stuff that might be useful) -You`d better get back here soon,that Jamaican Blue Mountain I ordered in to go with your Crown Royal is getting raided daily by Tom and the girls,get well soon my friend.

O.K-trains,shoot me down if this is old hat,but how about "slowest so-called express train I ever got stuck on"-any takers...? I believe Britains entrant is the long discontinued Cambrian Coast Express,which in its latter days was formed of two 3-car Metro-Cammell sets {R.D.C`s } running between Newtown & Aberystwyth/Pwlhelli in Mid Wales which averaged 29.5 M.P.H over the run.....still,those units had huge picture windows so you could see everything around and best of all,glazed partitions to the Drivers compartment so you could look over his shoulder at the road ahead ..a nice ride if you`re not in a hurry.

nice to see Cape Jim & Fergie stopping in earlier,maybe they`ll be back for supper...?,

right, the specials are the Skate wings,poached Lemon Sole or grilled Red Snapper plus all the usual stuff,there are a couple of crates of mixed British ales under the bar by your right foot that may move well as an accompaniment,right off to the kitchen,lets get those orders rolling..........nick

Good job, Nick and I appreciate your continuing support in keeping this place moving forward. That, plus attention to detail regarding our "missing" customers goes a long way with me! Many thanx! [tup] [;)]

There's a crowd of guys in the back room - came in from the lumber yard down the road - gotta get the brew to 'em!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

[nickinwestwales]

Hey Tom,best have a quick one to wet the whistle before the evening rush,batter is mixed and `resting`,fish is washed & ready to flour,chips are blanched,Boris is in the shed under restraint,all systems go...........On a more serious note,may I add my voice to the chorus raising a glass and wishing TED a speedy and complete recovery (will send you a message off-forum r.e our take out catering & some other stuff that might be useful) -You`d better get back here soon,that Jamaican Blue Mountain I ordered in to go with your Crown Royal is getting raided daily by Tom and the girls,get well soon my friend. O.K-trains,shoot me down if this is old hat,but how about "slowest so-called express train I ever got stuck on"-any takers...? I believe Britains entrant is the long discontinued Cambrian Coast Express,which in its latter days was formed of two 3-car Metro-Cammell sets {R.D.C`s } running between Newtown & Aberystwyth/Pwlhelli in Mid Wales which averaged 29.5 M.P.H over the run.....still,those units had huge picture windows so you could see everything around and best of all,glazed partitions to the Drivers compartment so you could look over his shoulder at the road ahead ..a nice ride if you`re not in a hurry. nice to see Cape Jim & Fergie stopping in earlier,maybe they`ll be back for supper...?,right, the specials are the Skate wings,poached Lemon Sole or grilled Red Snapper plus all the usual stuff,there are a couple of crates of mixed British ales under the bar by your right foot that may move well as an accompaniment,right off to the kitchen,lets get those orders rolling..........nick

[Anonymous]

Good afternoon guys. I will skip on the lunch fare and just have a cup of java. Just got back from the monthly board meeting of MATA. We are minutes away from getting all of the approvals in line for our extension along the Nasher Sculpture Garden (well worth visiting) ending at the Pearl Street light rail station. Exciting days lie ahead.

I would like to correct a couple facts I mentioned earlier. The Tandy company had 6 operatable "modernized" PCC cars in Fort Worth. In addition to the three basket cases we have stored outside (unfortunately) we have our Carpenter car (so named because John Carpenter, former chairman of TU Electric donated it to us) being rebuilt in Tampa by Edwards Car Co. Total cost ex air conditioning and trucks is $196,000. We are into phase three with an additional $40,000 being required for Edwards to finish it. (Donations are always welcome) We did not send the trucks (heavy) as we rehabbed them in house. The air conditioning we can install cheaper than Edwards. This car should be operational about February. That will give us 6 operational vintage cars in service. The vintage 1910 cars are essentially built of cast iron like a battleship. When we have an altercation with an auto the auto ALWAYS looses, both physically and legally. These vintage cars rarely fail in service. Talking with our compatriots with San Francisco Muni they say the vintage cars on the F Line have far fewer problems than the new modern all electronic cars. Maybe Brill and Niles knew somethng that died off when the closed up shop.

***