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"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD! Locked

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  • Member since
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  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, April 29, 2005 4:22 PM
Hello again passengerfan

You've got me there .... Bras Dor beer? Hmmmmm, now I know about Bras D'or as in Cape Breton and I know that the folks in that part of the world enjoy their brew - but haven't found a brew named either way ...... perhaps one those micro-breweries? Check out our beer menu, surely something may interest you ......

Amtrak California - although perhaps not "classic" may very well be the only U.S. major long distance passenger carrier left - given that Golden State does cover sufficient georgraphy to qualify as long distance and.Amtrak, as we know it, may very well go extinct. Interesting thought that you bring up .......

Thanx for stopping by ........[tup][;)]
==============================
For all:

In case you haven't heard - we wiill be shutting down a bit early tonight - heading over to "The Coffee Shop" on Model RR forum for their first Anniversary/Birthday party. If "things" wind down over there before the bewitching hour (whatever that is ..... } we'll open back up.

See y'all at the Party!!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Properietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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  • From: Central Valley California
  • 2,841 posts
Posted by passengerfan on Friday, April 29, 2005 3:06 PM
If you serve Bras Dor I'll have one thank you. Now for the latest on the Central Valley Amtrak California is growing faster than ever and if it keeps going at its present rate will be looking for new equipment in the not to distant future. There might be lots of Amtrak Superliners for sale at bargain prices if Amtrak doesn't get the funding it needs to survive. I think Amtrak California could very well survive on its own anyway. It would be nice to have some Amtrak sleepers for overnight service between Sacramento and Los Angeles via the valley route and Oakland - Los Angeles via the Coast line.
  • Member since
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  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, April 29, 2005 12:50 PM
SUMMARY OF POSTS

Friday already?[yeah] Thought I'd post the SUMMARY before events of the day overtake me ....... gets that way from time to time.

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 10:49:44
Summary
earlydiesels Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 10:32:42
Morning Tom. I'd like a b&g with black coffee, please. At the railroad, our longtime G.M. is a 30plus year lawman. I believe that is an underappreciated job--never heard of volunteering on the police force. I hope the only law enforcement in Our Place are those on their off time talking classic trains. You seem to run a tight ship.
----------------------------------------------
A long time ago (1959) I bartendered in Kodiak, Alaska. The couple who owned the bar (from Brooklyn, NY) told me that there were only three things I had to know to work there:

(1) When someone ordered whiskey - put the bottle on the bar with a glass.
(2) When someone ordered beer - put the bottle on the bar with a mug.
(3) If someone got unruly, hit 'em with that baseball bat over there.

It worked quite well! (Tom)
----------------------------------------
earlydiesels Our rr received some coaches late last season and with all the Canadians in here, thought I'd share them with you. They came painted in Ontario Northland colors and I'm told were originally CP. They have weird, long wheelbase 4 wheel trucks but ride great. The interiors are in good shape and they are supposed to have AC and heating. The seats are recliners and there are glass partions towards the ends. We put them into service immediately and are going to fix the minor things and try to paint them this season.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
This ought to get a response or three from some of the guys. Problem always is - in a word - READING. That's an issue in common with all of these forums - if one wants to really participate, then you gotta take the time to READ what's been said! Yeah, I know - uphill battle ...... been there, done that! (Tom)
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earlydiesels Another black coffee, please Tom. My wife and I are involved in 3 rr preservation groups but most of our effort is at the rr. We are both dept. heads with my latest promotion earlier this year. When we were married 11 years ago, she tried to get involved in my then hobby but was rebuffed so it means a lot to have something we can do together.
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You'll have to bring her in for our ladies night ...... Fridays. Gets a bit rowdy, but then again, you Hank Snow fans can handle it! (Tom)
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earlydiesels
Trolleyboy, we have several diesels and more rollingstock than places to store it. Among other duties, I am a engineer trainer. We currently have a moratorium on new engineers because as soon as they get promoted, they seldom want to be conductors again! Since we are all volunteers, I conduct occasionally but prefer the right hand side. Last season we opened the rest of our track but we need to do some bridgework on the new line before season opens. Winter is hard on trackage and bridges.

Your suggestion about the guages is a good one but the local museum refuses to join ARM but the rr does so I look for anything usable. I would prefer hard to find artifacts be used on something running than stuffed and mounted 4-8-4. We have a few guages and built the brake handles from wood. The cab is totally different than from when we started 3 years ago. It was empty and all windows and doors were covered with wood.
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I believe trolleyboy - aka Rob is ill ...... no doubt he'll pick up on this when he's back on line. (Tom)
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earlydiesels Hey Tom, I put some coin in the jukebox and nothing's happening. I would like some Hank Snow this morning. Thanks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
That old juke box was made back in the days of "real" quarters, before the U.S. Mint went to those "layered" and lighter versions. Mechanism gets a little fussy now and then ....... there's a jar of "old" quarters over by the hard boiled egg container - help yourself!

See ya!

Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: coalminer3 Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 15:33:23
Just a quick visit on the way to "start 3rd shift." This round's on me. I appreciate the CP Es behind the building. I recall photographing them in Vermont pulling a special train nr. St. Johnsbury "back in the day."

Siberianmo: Your upcoming trip sounds great - a chance to ride some fine equipment, enjoy good service, etc. The Park cars are splendid. BTW, where is the second set of equipment coming from? I am unfamilair with VIA equipment assignments, etc., but agree with you that it's nice to have someone listening to passengers requests.

Have a good evening.

work safe


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 19:41:19
Hey coalminer 3 Good to see you again! I'll set 'em up as we chat ....

You know, it's really just a guess on my part where those Budd cars are coming from ..... I'll know a lot better this time next week when I'll be on board the "Ocean" bound for Halifax!

VIA Rail's "Enterprise" is the night train for business people traveling in either direction between Montreal and Toronto - a hotel on wheels is really what those trains are ... gets in around 8 AM just in time for the business day to begin. Anyway, those two consists supposedly went west, but maybe only one did. That run is now Renaissance {"Euro" cars} equipped. But, again - I'm guessing. I WILL find out.

Enjoy and thanx for the 'round!'

Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 19:19:01
Good evening landlord and gentlemen,hope I find you all in good form?......

Now,Tom,about the pigs feet,my apologies. I will replace them-when I saw the sign with "breakfast" clearly marked on it,instinct took over.........you may also want to check the mustard & pickle jars........

O.K.-flags you waved, Northlander-yes, you heard right,as of last week two trains are running,one each way,during daylight-How this will tie in with Polar Bear & Little Bear connections remains to be seen.

As regards the T.E.E units your quickest route is likely to be : tap in "Ontario Northland" to your machine,the (un)official Ontario Northland site should appear on the first page of addresses`s Go in and select Mike Robin`s photo gallery-up in the top left corner-I`m sure he has some shots,if not the society`s own photo archive is worth a look

About me,well not so easy---um---errr.....Well,here goes--Brit...45....L.T.Partner & small demon daughter.......House-husband,week-end bar keep in village rugby club,village garden,small building and odd job man and still aspirant musician,..............

First model-a late production Hornby-Dublo layout that my Dad aquired in some shady deal with another cabbie in about `63 which I promptly wrecked ( come on -I was only 3 !!!) next attempt- a Tri-Ang/Hornby starter set in `70 which I still have,together with the majority of the rest of that era of production. Got turned on to Canadian RRd`s when kid sister brought me back a Bachmann starter set the first year after she emigrated-co-incided with loss of interest in Somerset & Dorset layout,and that F9 looks so silly with just 2 cars,better buy a half-dozen more.....................and so it begins again..

So,thats me

P.S-appreciate the implied compliment,but what little knowledge I have is mostly british related and largely out of date--Although,that said, now that the little darling sleeps through and I have this nice new machine to play with,my thirst for knowledge has returned and is being kept supplied................

by the way,whats the dress code for the coffee shop party? i`d hate to make a social gaffe.......In fact,could you save me a seat?,

I`ve just been reminded that we are playing a gig tomorrow to promote the local rehearsal studios,and apparently there will be two different film crews there,recording "onstage" and "audience" perspectives plus a full 24 track digital recording going on-nice of you to mention that boys,if I'd known I`d have changed me shirt!!!!

So no-one wants to listen to me all night,mine`s a Molson`s and over to YOU...

One Molson's coming your way .... Sounds to me as if you "into" plenty of life's experiences, that you probably need two "plates." Anyway, don't sweat the small stuff - pig's feet, mustard and pickles are easily enough replenished. Good customers, now that's another thing! What you spend in brew will more than make up for it![}:)]

We have a customer who stops by quite often, in fact he's responded to one of your comments - trolleyboy, an Ontario lad named Rob who we will be connecting with one of these days. He's provided me with lots of "good stuff" about the ONR and other rail trips ..... coupled with what you've added, I'm fast becoming "conversational." Thanx![tup] And, yes - I'll check out that link you mentioned to see those Dutch loco's ....

Bartender, eh? How'd I know THAT?! Just "shows" - can't get away from it. Anyway, nothing like spending your "off hours" in another bar ...... even if it is "cyber" ...... what's this old world coming to?[}:)]

I found it absolutely the best thing I've done in model railroading to feature Canadian passenger railroads on my layout. By the way, I have an album on http://www.railimages.com/albums/thomasweber that you may want to check out. I call my HO layout, Can-Am - you'll see why. The other photo's? Just stuff I've uploaded in order to download 'em to places like this ..... (those terms of today .... can you imagine using 'em 20 years ago?)

Enough .... enjoy the brew ... and hope you stop by real soon. Oh, almost forgot, "come as you are" should work just fine for the Anniversary/Birthday party over at "The Coffee Shop." Believe me, no one's going to care ...... just try to be there.

See ya![tup][;)]

QUOTE: foureasy Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 19:36:16
Hi Tom,i like the un-numbered one the best. Is that a L&N/CSX blue engine with the yellow nose?


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 19:49:20
foureasy First drink is on the house!

No, that loco is Canadian National of the "period" of "Our" Place ..... 1950's .......

I know we're on page 5, but "Our" Place is relatively new. So, you may want to check out the pages before this one ........ I've provided summaries to help get through the submissions ........ you just may find something that 'flicks your switch."'

Hope to see you again.

Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: bbryon Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 20:35:38
I am a "second class" type of guy, and for that reason I'd like to recommend the"The Only Second Class Tavern" in picture two as the place for the chat. I hear the peanuts are good too. ben


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 April 2005, 08:03:48
Morning bbryon

Ben - I tried to send you an e-mail, but noticed you haven't provided that info on your profile ... also noted you are a newcomer not only to this topic, but to the forums. aboard!

Now - here's the way it "works" - you'll note we are on page 5 ...... lots of good stuff posted before this page ...... for example, the "vote" closed a long time ago for those selections. "Our" Place has been chosen and pictures appear over and over ... just check out my SUMMARIES along with other posts.

Not trying to make you feel bad - just need to get you up to speed. Again, those profiles really can be used for all kinds of stuff .... private communications for one.

C'mon back again, and enjoy the first drink on the house!

Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: Today, 00:23:53
Hi all.
earlydiesel. We are an all vollenteer group as well. No govt money so we have to shoe string it occasionally.

We find that most of our crews prefer to run as oposed to conduct so that's why we brought in the graduated licence.It forces everyone to operate safly (you write a rules test 90%to pass before we even attempt to show you how to run)

This way the crews are more likley to keep comming up and operating all season long as oposed to showing up for speacial occation days only.

To bad they won't join the ARM we have found it a wonderfull group to be involved with.Keep trying to sway them it's really worth the effert.

Nick seeing as you are such a ONR fan here's a tidbit for you. LL Canada is making a small run of proto ONR RS-10's in the yellow and blue lightning bolt scheme #1400 only. You can only purchase it at one hobby shop Modellers Choice in Hamilton Ontario. They are the exclusive TH&B and ONR shop.(re they pay for the runs) They do advertise in MR in their store listings. I was at the hobby shop today and saw the pictures for the loco. I have a couple of the CP RS-10's they are excellent loco's all the right details and they run like swiss watches. the retail is supossed to be $169.99 CDN. Modellers choice may ship to UK call them if you are interested.

Well I'm off for now folks. Rob


Good to see you again, Rob .... been wondering about you. Glad all's well. When are you leaving for your trip?

QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 29 Apr 2005, 09:20:00
Morning all. Tom, the usual please-and a water, too.

My wife was on the computer most of last night and the cell phones as well{sometimes all at once} trying to round up able bodies for duty. She is the railroad's crew caller and is in almost constant contact with the G.M. Our season opens Memorial Day but we have something every weekend and several midweek runs, too. Our membership is 150-175 but as in any volunteer organization, only a small percentage do most everything.

Trolleyboy, on one of your earlier posts you wrote you could not find the schedule for a certain excursion rr- in the TRAINS issue that lists tourist rrs and museums the listing says call for schedule between April and October. I have found that our rr always has more volunteers show up for special events than normal operations. Especially if some kind of media is involved. When its 98 and the humidity is high with no wind, no one wants to help. Sometimes that's when we busiest.

Tom, I believe those are good principles for a barkeep. Just how big is the bat? I may try to bring the better half tonight but she might have to conduct rr business. She has been curious as to what I've been doing.

If you are in Canada next week, who is going to run the place?? You never mention any help so I wonder what's up.


Appreciate your patronage - always good info coming from you![tup][;)]

I'm becoming a "techie" in my advanced age (67 next month .....). Just turned my laptop into "wireless" capability. Translated, I can get on the web from anywhere within 300 feet of the "router." That means my bride can use the desktop for her school work (university teacher) and I can continue with this great stuff without any interference ....... Ah, technology! When it works, that is .....

Am I reading "VOLUNTEER" in your statement about who will be running the place in my absence? I was going to "solicit" some help come this Monday morning ..... thought by now we'd be able to muster up sufficient numbers of customers to keep things moving. Surely don't expect anyone to do these summaries - just to keep some continuity to it all - AND KEEP "Our" Place right up top on the forums listing. That's important, if we are to attract newcomers ... also, if we're not seen on that first page, lots of guys won't "dig" down to find us.

So - yeah - I'd love some help.

The bat? Big enough to be called the "Equalizer."

QUOTE: coalminer3Posted: 29 Apr 2005, 10:25:59
Good morning - time for a quick lunch and fill up the thermos with coffee please, and I'm on my way back out into the rain and cool temps.

RE the "Enterprise" IMHO, it's too bad that Amtrak hasn't figured out that idea on 66 and 67. Amazing that you can't ride overnight in a sleepr between large east coast cities.

Have a good weekend.

work safe

Your "regular" sandwich is ready .... wanna beer with that?
Yeah, it truly is amazing when you think about "what was" and then take a look around at "what is." Guess that's just life .... can't ever go back. One thing nice about model railroading as a hobby is that you always can have those "memories" come to life in the form of your layout. Works every time for me ....... My observation dome cars run and run and run, so do my RDC's and all those great diesels long gone from today's railroad scene. Yeah - works for me.

Thermos is ready. Be seeing you .....[tup][;)]
===========================================
See ya and if we don't talk tomorrow - see ya on Monday. Remember, "Our" Place is closed on Sundays! Just use the mail slot in the door should you have something you want to drop off .......

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    January 2001
  • From: WV
  • 1,251 posts
Posted by coalminer3 on Friday, April 29, 2005 10:25 AM
Good morning - time for a quick lunch and fill up the thermos with coffee please, and I'm on my way back out into the rain and cool temps.

RE the "Enterprise" IMHO, it's too bad that Amtrak hasn't figured out that idea on 66 and 67. Amazing that you can't ride overnight in a sleepr between large east coast cities.

Have a good weekend.

work safe
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, April 29, 2005 9:20 AM
Morning all. Tom, the usual please-and a water, too. My wife was on the computer most of last night and the cell phones as well{sometimes all at once} trying to round up able bodies for duty. She is the railroad's crew caller and is in almost constant contact with the G.M. Our season opens Memorial Day but we have something every weekend and several midweek runs, too. Our membership is 150-175 but as in any volunteer organization, only a small percentage do most everything.
Trolleyboy, on one of your earlier posts you wrote you could not find the schedule for a certain excursion rr- in the TRAINS issue that lists tourist rrs and museums the listing says call for schedule between April and October. I have found that our rr always has more volunteers show up for special events than normal operations. Especially if some kind of media is involved. When its 98 and the humidity is high with no wind, no one wants to help. Sometimes that's when we busiest.
Tom, I believe those are good principles for a barkeep. Just how big is the bat? I may try to bring the better half tonight but she might have to conduct rr business. She has been curious as to what I've been doing. If you are in Canada next week, who is going to run the place?? You never mention any help so I wonder what's up.
  • Member since
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, April 29, 2005 8:03 AM
Morning bbryon

Ben - I tried to send you an e-mail, but noticed you haven't provided that info on your profile ... also noted you are a newcomer not only to this topic, but to the forums. [#welcome] aboard!

Now - here's the way it "works" - you'll note we are on page 5 ...... lots of good stuff posted before this page ...... for example, the "vote" closed a long time ago for those selections. "Our" Place has been chosen and pictures appear over and over ... just check out my SUMMARIES along with other posts.

Not trying to make you feel bad - just need to get you up to speed. Again, those profiles really can be used for all kinds of stuff .... private communications for one.

C'mon back again, and enjoy the first drink on the house![tup][;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    May 2014
  • 3,727 posts
Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, April 29, 2005 12:23 AM
Hi all. earlydiesel. We are an all vollenteer group as well.No govt money so we have to shoe string it occationally. We find that most of our crews prefer to run as oposed to conduct so that's why we brought in the graduated licence.It forces everyone to operate safly (you write a rules test 90%to pass before we even attempt to show you how to run)This way the crews are more likley to keep comming up and operating all season long as oposed to showing up for speacial occation days only. To bad they won't join the ARM we have found it a wonderfull group to be involved with.Keep trying to sway them it's really worth the effert. Nick seeing as you are such a ONR fan here's a tidbit for you. LL Canada is making a small run of proto ONR RS-10's in the yellow and blue lightning bolt scheme #1400 only. You can only purchase it at one hobby shop Modellers Choice in Hamilton Ontario. They are the exclusive TH&B and ONR shop.(re they pay for the runs) They do advertise in MR in their store listings. I was at the hobby shop today and saw the pictures for the loco. I have a couple of the CP RS-10's they are excellent loco's all the right details and they run like swiss watches. the retail is supossed to be $169.99 CDN. Modellers choice may ship to UK call them if you are interested. Well I'm off for now folks. Rob
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, April 28, 2005 8:35 PM
I am a "second class" type of guy, and for that reason I'd like to recommend the"The Only Second Class Tavern" in picture two as the place for the chat. I hear the peanuts are good too. ben
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, April 28, 2005 7:49 PM
[#welcome]foureasy First drink is on the house!

No, that loco is Canadian National of the "period" of "Our" Place ..... 1950's .......

I know we're on page 5, but "Our" Place is relatively new. So, you may want to check out the pages before this one ........ I've provided summaries to help get through the submissions ........ you just may find something that 'flicks your switch."'[tup]

Hope to see you again.[tup][;)]

Tom (Siberianmo}
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, April 28, 2005 7:41 PM
Hey coalminer 3 Good to see you again! I'll set 'em up as we chat ....

You know, it's really just a guess on my part where those Budd cars are coming from ..... I'll know a lot better this time next week when I'll be on board the "Ocean" bound for Halifax![yeah]

VIA Rail's "Enterprise" is the night train for business people traveling in either direction between Montreal and Toronto - a hotel on wheels is really what those trains are ... gets in around 8 AM just in time for the business day to begin. Anyway, those two consists supposedly went west, but maybe only one did. That run is now Renaissance {"Euro" cars} equipped. But, again - I'm guessing. I WILL find out.

Enjoy and thanx for the 'round!'[tup][;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, April 28, 2005 7:36 PM
Hi Tom,i like the un-numbered one the best. Is that a L&N/CSX blue engine with the yellow nose?
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Posted by nickinwestwales on Thursday, April 28, 2005 7:19 PM
Good evening landlord and gentlemen,hope I find you all in good form?......Now,Tom,about the pigs feet,my apologies. I will replace them-when I saw the sign with "breakfast" clearly marked on it,instinct took over.........you may also want to check the mustard & pickle jars........O.K.-flags you waved,Northlander-yes,you heard right,as of last week two trains are running,one each way,during daylight-How this will tie in with Polar Bear & Little Bear connections remains to be seen. As regards the T.E.E units your quickest route is likely to be : tap in "Ontario Northland" to your machine,the (un)official Ontario Northland site should appear on the first page of addresses`s Go in and select Mike Robin`s photo gallery-up in the top left corner-I`m sure he has some shots,if not the society`s own photo archive is worth a look About me,well not so easy---um---errr.....Well,here goes--Brit...45....L.T.Partner & small demon daughter.......House-husband,week-end bar keep in village rugby club,village garden,small building and odd job man and still aspirant musician,..............First model-a late production Hornby-Dublo layout that my Dad aquired in some shady deal with another cabbie in about `63 which I promptly wrecked ( come on -I was only 3 !!!) next attempt- a Tri-Ang/Hornby starter set in `70 which I still have,together with the majority of the rest of that era of production. Got turned on to Canadian RRd`s when kid sister brought me back a Bachmann starter set the first year after she emigrated-co-incided with loss of interest in Somerset & Dorset layout,and that F9 looks so silly with just 2 cars,better buy a half-dozen more.....................and so it begins again..So,thats me P.S-appreciate the implied compliment,but what little knowledge I have is mostly british related and largely out of date--Although,that said, now that the little darling sleeps through and I have this nice new machine to play with,my thirst for knowledge has returned and is being kept supplied................by the way,whats the dress code for the coffee shop party? i`d hate to make a social gaffe.......In fact,could you save me a seat?, I`ve just been reminded that we are playing a gig tomorrow to promote the local rehearsal studios,and apparently there will be two different film crews there,recording "onstage" and "audience" perspectives plus a full 24 track digital recording going on-nice of you to mention that boys,if I1d known I`d have changed me shirt!!!! So no-one wants to listen to me all night,mine`s a Molson`s and over to YOU...
  • Member since
    January 2001
  • From: WV
  • 1,251 posts
Posted by coalminer3 on Thursday, April 28, 2005 3:33 PM
Just a quick visit on the way to "start 3rd shift." This round's on me. I appreciate the CP Es behind the building. I recall photographing them in Vermont pulling a special train nr. St. Johnsbury "back in the day."

Siberianmo: Your upcoming trip sounds great - a chance to ride some fine equipment, enjoy good service, etc. The Park cars are splendid. BTW, where is the second set of equipment coming from? I am unfamilair with VIA equipment assignments, etc., but agree with you that it's nice to have someone listening to passengers requests.

Have a good evening.

work safe
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, April 28, 2005 10:49 AM
QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 10:32:42
Morning Tom. I'd like a b&g with black coffee, please. At the railroad, our longtime G.M. is a 30plus year lawman. I believe that is an underappreciated job--never heard of volunteering on the police force. I hope the only law enforcement in Our Place are those on their off time talking classic trains. You seem to run a tight ship.

A long time ago (1959) I bartendered in Kodiak, Alaska. The couple who owned the bar (from Brooklyn, NY) told me that there were only three things I had to know to work there:

(1) When someone ordered whiskey - put the bottle on the bar with a glass.
(2) When someone ordered beer - put the bottle on the bar with a mug.
(3) If someone got unruly, hit 'em with that baseball bat over there.

It worked quite well![}:)]

QUOTE: Our rr received some coaches late last season and with all the Canadians in here, thought I'd share them with you. They came painted in Ontario Northland colors and I'm told were originally CP. They have weird, long wheelbase 4 wheel trucks but ride great. The interiors are in good shape and they are supposed to have AC and heating. The seats are recliners and there are glass partions towards the ends. We put them into service immediately and are going to fix the minor things and try to paint them this season.

This ought to get a response or three from some of the guys. Problem always is - in a word - READING. That's an issue in common with all of these forums - if one wants to really participate, then you gotta take the time to READ what's been said! Yeah, I know - uphill battle ...... been there, done that![;)]

QUOTE: Another black coffee, please Tom. My wife and I are involved in 3 rr preservation groups but most of our effort is at the rr. We are both dept. heads with my latest promotion earlier this year. When we were married 11 years ago, she tried to get involved in my then hobby but was rebuffed so it means a lot to have something we can do together.

You'll have to bring her in for our ladies night ...... Fridays. Gets a bit rowdy, but then again, you Hank Snow fans can handle it![}:)]

QUOTE: Trolleyboy, we have several diesels and more rollingstock than places to store it. Among other duties, I am a engineer trainer. We currently have a moratorium on new engineers because as soon as they get promoted, they seldom want to be conductors again! Since we are all volunteers, I conduct occasionally but prefer the right hand side. Last season we opened the rest of our track but we need to do some bridgework on the new line before season opens. Winter is hard on trackage and bridges.
Your suggestion about the guages is a good one but the local museum refuses to join ARM but the rr does so I look for anything usable. I would prefer hard to find artifacts be used on something running than stuffed and mounted 4-8-4. We have a few guages and built the brake handles from wood. The cab is totally different than from when we started 3 years ago. It was empty and all windows and doors were covered with wood.

I believe trolleyboy - aka Rob is ill ...... no doubt he'll pick up on this when he's back on line.

QUOTE: Hey Tom, I put some coin in the jukebox and nothing's happening. I would like some Hank Snow this morning. Thanks.

That old juke box was made back in the days of "real" quarters, before the U.S. Mint went to those "layered" and lighter versions. Mechanism gets a little fussy now and then ....... there's a jar of "old" quarters over by the hard boiled egg container - help yourself![tup]

See ya![tup][;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, April 28, 2005 10:32 AM
Morning Tom. I'd like a b&g with black coffee, please. At the railroad, our longtime G.M. is a 30plus year lawman. I believe that is an underappreciated job--never heard of volunteering on the police force. I hope the only law enforcement in Our Place are those on their off time talking classic trains. You seem to run a tight ship.
Our rr received some coaches late last season and with all the Canadians in here, thought I'd share them with you. They came painted in Ontario Northland colors and I'm told were originally CP. They have weird, long wheelbase 4 wheel trucks but ride great. The interiors are in good shape and they are supposed to have AC and heating. The seats are recliners and there are glass partions towards the ends. We put them into service immediately and are going to fix the minor things and try to paint them this season.
Another black coffee, please Tom. My wife and I are involved in 3 rr preservation groups but most of our effort is at the rr. We are both dept. heads with my latest promotion earlier this year. When we were married 11 years ago, she tried to get involved in my then hobby but was rebuffed so it means a lot to have something we can do together.
Trolleyboy, we have several diesels and more rollingstock than places to store it. Among other duties, I am a engineer trainer. We currently have a moratorium on new engineers because as soon as they get promoted, they seldom want to be conductors again! Since we are all volunteers, I conduct occasionally but prefer the right hand side. Last season we opened the rest of our track but we need to do some bridgework on the new line before season opens. Winter is hard on trackage and bridges.
Your suggestion about the guages is a good one but the local museum refuses to join ARM but the rr does so I look for anything usable. I would prefer hard to find artifacts be used on something running than stuffed and mounted 4-8-4. We have a few guages and built the brake handles from wood. The cab is totally different than from when we started 3 years ago. It was empty and all windows and doors were covered with wood.
Hey Tom, I put some coin in the jukebox and nothing's happening. I would like some Hank Snow this morning. Thanks.
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, April 28, 2005 8:29 AM
SUMMARY OF POSTS

Good Morning "Customers"!

It's been a hectic couple of days for me - sick friend down (but not out) with cancer - 'puter problems (what's new?!) - dog demanding more attention than one man can give! (but I really don't mind[;)]) and the "in general" things-to-do 'round the house. Ah, the retired life .....

The point of these summaries is to permit those of you who fall behind with what's been said to have a chance to see it all within one post ....... hope you take advantage of them ........[tup][;)]
=================================
QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 26 Apr 2005, 09:09:11
Good morning to you all.
Looks like a slow start this week in our place. Not much conversation going on... I gotta think of some stories worth telling and I'll come back later.
BTW I checked and can't find the schedule for the Chaudière-Appalaches tourist train.
Tom, grilled cheese and strong coffee before I go, please.
Chris


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 26 Apr 2005, 09:50:39
Good morning all,
Hey Chris! Whadyamean, "slow" - there's all kinds of activity going on in "Our" Place, just not much train talk! Check that table out over there ...... and how about the nearly full bar? Then of course there is the SUMMARY from yesterday ... always have reading material 'round here. Geez!

I just found out that a DVD exists that will go on my "must have" list ... it's the Legendary Canadian. Here's a quote of what I found:

"The "Legendary Canadian" features three programs spanning over 45 years of the train's history.
First, "The New Budd Train" is a newsreel program with trackside, onboard and aerial footage showing the "Canadian" being tested behind the Reading F units in the Philadelphia area. Next, CPR's 1955 publicity film introducing "The Canadian" takes us aboard the train and trackside for some spectacular scenes of the train as it travels west to Vancouver. Finally, "Working No. 1" gives us a behind the scenes look at the people and efforts necessary to keep the "Canadian" famous under VIA Rail ownership. You'll be at the shops, in the station, trackside and aboard the train, prior to and during much of No. 1's first leg from Toronto to Capreol.

DVD, NTSC format only. 62 minutes

$29.95 [CDN]

Purchase this item [http://www.cprstore.com/store/books.htm#videos]

Since its inaugural run on April 24, 1955, the classic stainless steel "Canadian" has not only earned a world wide reputation for First Class rail travel but is also a train that legends are made of."

Now this surely is first class entertainment! Too bad it's ONLY 62 minutes .....

See y'all soon!

Tom in Chesterfield, MO, USA (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 26 Apr 2005, 12:18:27
Dave from the left coast with a morning to you all..Been away of business in AZ, the I10 corridor to Yuma was jumping with action along the ole Sunset Route. UP was slamming three trains every 30 minutes in both directions north of Indio.

A lot of foreign power, NS,CSX in the consits in additon to some SP patch jobs. Stopped for eats in Indio (Our Place is much better, we have forks and napkins and tom doesn't wear 30 pounds of drugstore makeup!) and watched DPUs and helper movements being added. Back on the road, avoided the Casino..oh, the temptation! Traffic was much reduced the farther east I went, encounterd five movements, three east, two west all with NS power on the point.

Saturday I arrived at the Yuma Proving Grounds, produced my Credentials,Orders, Security Clearance verification got billeted attended a pre ops briefing and assisted the Marines and Air Force in blowing up a few things.

Monday, attend a post ops briefing..Can't find a decent cup of coffee on base, so why linger? Back on the road to LA, no time for the scenery, orders to report you know. Upon my return to duty today I was informed that all the Senior Officials are away for the week at a "I don't need to know location", leaving me in command.

Appreciate you keeping the coffee fresh and hot, I predict its going to be a long week.


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 26 Apr 2005, 13:12:34
G'day Dave ...... from the sounds of what you've had to say, you lead a very interesting life....... hmmmmm, better check those grenades at the door, wouldn't want anyone to confuse them with the "giveaways" at the bar ....

Back in '86 (as in 1986, not 1886!), I was assigned to duty in Long Beach, CA. I drove out from my home here in the St. Louis area for an assortment of reasons. The main one being, I wanted my vehicle with me! Anyway, the route I selected (I-40) took me through some country that I hadn't seen before. The railroading that was going on was just awesome to watch. Of course, I had to pay a bit of attention to what I was supposed to be doing ... but those trains just seemed to go on forever.

UP seems to be pretty much chock-blocked throughout their system. Here in Missouri it's been that way for as long as I can recall, and getting worse. Never have figured out the merit of tearing up or selling off rights-of-way that surely could lessen the load on the main lines ....... then again, if I could figure that one out, I'd pretty much be qualified for Rail Czar.

Glad you appreciate my lack of make up ..... just what kinds of places do you frequent anyway? We don't allow those kinds in here .... well, maybe a dozen or so on Friday and Saturday nights - females of course!

Ready for 'nother one?

Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 08:35:04
Hi TOM,
This morning, while I'm waiting for "Our place" to open and grab a quick breakfast, I am under the porch, leaning on the wall (behind the light green T-bird this guy looks like me!) and I'm wondering who is the lucky guy who lives upstairs from the café and enjoys all that mainline action behind "Our place".
Chris


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 08:56:04
Morning Chris,

Quick is right ...... that's our specialty. Hmmmm, so do you own the 'Vette or is your bike in the back? Both perhaps? Upstairs? Well of course that would be my residence .......

I'm going to be riding one of those hope-to-be "classics" late next week. Our annual trek to Halifax aboard the "Ocean." Got "booked" in the Park Car both ways ... that just is so cool. Love sitting up in the dome with my Alexander Keith's Pale Ale - and err, of course, my bride!

I received quite a surprise the other day involving this hope-to-be "classic" train. While in Halifax visiting with friends and family, I will be taking a solo round trip to Montreal then on to Ottawa aboard those wonderful Budd cars - bedroom is in the adjacent car to the Park going and in the Park car for the return. This is to be my "surprise" birthday present ....... love it! Keeps me in my "train fix" state of mind while my wife spends some quality time with her family. I'll take the Corridor train to Ottawa, in the Renaissance equipment - spend a few hours then get back to Montreal in time to board the evening train. Hope the beer stays cold in my absence .......

For those who are interested: VIA Rail has decided to put another complete consist of Budd cars on the "Ocean" beginning in May. This will provide two complete sets of cars for two round trips weekly each way (Montreal and Halifax). Seems like the "powers that be" in the VIA Rail hierarchy have listened to the travelers who have complained about the Renaissance cars. Actually, the complaints are more in line with "We like the Budd cars better." Well, nothing or no one lasts forever, but as long as they run 'em, I'm willing to pay the price and ride 'em.

Enjoy!
Tom


QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 14:02:56
Hi Tom sorry I've had a cold and didn't want to "share it" with any of you. I'd like a black label though if you have it.

Earlydiesel Yes Tom is right my wife and I are into electric railway preservation.I do both. I'm in the operations dept but I also lend a hand to the maintenance and restortion end of things as well.

Have you guys checked with steamtown or any of the other 'steam museums' around they may have the guages that you need, also if your museum belongs to the ARM(assoitiation of railway museums) you may be able to hook uo with and trade with another group for your parts. I know that our museum has delved into the trade/purchase market with other similar museums.

As for cars that I myself opertate I'm trained for Peter Whitt types and PCC's. I'll conduct on most of the other operational cars at the moment though as my training isn't completed yet. We use a graduated training system you start with the easy cars and work your way up. Also seeing as how the "newest" regularly operated car on the property is a 1951 PCC so training sometime is put on hold as maintenance and restorations need to be completed.

Take a gander at the museum's site www.hcry .org. it will list our fleet and give you more info about us.

take care all talk to you soon. Rob


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 15:00:34
Hey Rob! Good to see you again ... was wondering what happened.
Black Label? You bet ...... bottled, nice 'n cold with a frosty mug comin' up!

By the way, I've made a few posts on "Canadian Passenger Railroads - Let's Talk!"
I received a few Emails wondering "what happened" to me ...... nevertheless, I'm not sure that I'll ever get back to the frequency of before, but now and then .......

Also, there is a post on there that really ticked me off ... just cannot seem to get the message across to some people that "chatting" on these forums shouldn't ever disintegrate into political BS ..... you'll know it when you see it. The "guys" should simply not respond to that kind of stuff - on any forum - then perhaps these ingoramuses would get the message. Really ticked me off (hmmmm, I said that already!).

See ya!
Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 17:54:26
Well,good evening Tom,I had no idea you had a bar at this end of town-like the Canadian decor. Dont suppose you have a Molsons in that well stocked fridge of yours?...Oh,top man,well done!!...

Ah yes,classic trains-how about the Ontario Northland three, The Northlander,The Polar Bear Express and the Little Bear( a real live mixed train!!) worth a look just for the variety of equipment used over the years,

gotta run,speak again,nick


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 19:58:09
Nick! Appreciate your stopping in ..... oh yeah, the Molson's are cold and ready for the frosted mug. First one is on the house .......

Next time you come in, how about sharing some stories with us about those "classics" you mentioned? In "Our" Place WE determine what qualifies as a "classic" - sounds fair to me!

We gotta get some more of the guys from the "Coffee Shop" to stop in - Friday and Saturday nights we have steaks (and fries) - also Pizza night every Friday - first 8 slices on me ..... BUT, each slice has to be accompanied by at least one purchased mug of brew!

Of course, the idea is to have fun around here ........

See ya!

Tom (Siberianmo)


QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 20:11:34
Hello Tom. A cold Busch draught, please.

Our railroad issues a newspaper every season to be given out at the depot to our passengers. It is different each time. Since I have received a promotion, I was asked to submit some thoughts for publication in it. I got very
short notice{it goes to setup next week} so I have been racking the old gray matter for something to say. The cold beer is my reward!

Our season officially begins Memorial Day but we have charters, wedding specials, and Scout trips before then. The wife and I are preparing for another busy season. I was able to buy an authentic conductor's uniform last season and am getting a new hat to match. I occasionally like to be conductor but prefer engineering. Since we are all volunteers, sometimes we cannot find conductors so I help out.

Thanks Tom. That was good and thanks for providing this interesting place for interchange of like minded individuals.


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 27 Apr 2005, 20:46:37
One cold Busch draught comin' right up in a frosty mug for earlydiesels

Did you catch that post for you by trolleyboy?

You appear to be very much involved with your volunteer work. Perhaps one day my wife and I will take a trip down your way for a rendezvous ...... The only volunteer work I ever did after I retired was with my local police force. Gave 'em two years (2,000 hours each year) and while most of it was rewarding ..... I'd not recommend it. Reserve police officers are not always appreciated by the "real" cops. Too bad, but such is life. The fact that I spent over 17 years as a "fed" apparently made it worse ...... oh well, a story for another time and place.

I'm glad you enjoy "Our" Place ..... and are "into" it .... that's the idea!

See ya!

TomSiberianmo


QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 28 Apr 2005, 04:44:25
Hey,Tom-another of those cold Molsons please and as it`s payday a round for the house,as and when they straggle in!!

Well it`s a day off for me(the best sort-everyone else is working) and blowing a gale out there so time to sit a while.

So,Ontario Northland,classic or not?...discuss....[takes me back to schooldays] Well ,first a disclaimer,I`ve never travelled on any of these lines,so all this is "received wisdom" picked up from the (un)official O.N. railfan site,but they caught my imagination. In part because of the manageable size of the outfit (in modelling terms) and partly the off the beaten track,frontier feel of the place.

So,the trains, The Northlander runs daily from Toronto up to Cochrane via North Bay ( C.N. trackage to N.Bay ) Normal formation seems to be G.P.38-2,A.P.U (converted "B" unit for car heating ) 2 coaches and a food service car ( coverted G.O.cars ) until fairly recently,power was any one of the last 3 F.P.7a`s dating back to `51 or 2 but retro-fitted with 2000 hp Caterpiller prime movers. Also seen on this service although not sucessful and long withdrawn ,were a number of Dutch built Werkspoor T.E.E units. This service meets bus connections along the route serving the various `branches ` although It`s predecessor the Northland sleeper carried connecting portions and could include virtually anything.

Heading north from Cochrane we have the Polar Bear Express,a summer-only tourist run up to Moosonee up in the arctic circle--this is usually a twin G.P38 lashup although Cochrane shed will happily use whats available,usually a dozen plus cars including domes,food service etc ( think these came from B.C.Rail and C.P.R . The Little Bear is the 3-times-weekly mixed to Moosonee--Beyond Cochrane you are in the tree line and the track is the only land route in or out so this is a community lifeline, The little bear runs about a dozen freight cars(lots of flats with big plant,containers etc,fuel tanks,general stores.

According to season,a "canoe car" ( bulkhead flat with special racks fitted) and a "moose car" (50` box for dressed carcases) are available. so a thumbnail essay. Thats left me thirsty so same again and i`ll just perch over here at the end of the counter,

take care now,nick


Morning Nick and glad you decided to stop by ..... don't forget to check out that light breakfast menu .... it's right over there by the pig's feet jar ......

One trip I've really wanted to take is aboard the ONR to Cochrane ... unfortunately, the schedule has been rather "unfriendly" for my likes. I'm no longer "into" riding all night in coach ..... However, I understand that ONR has decided to change that back to daytime ops ....

For me, I have to contend with getting up to Toronto and air travel these days is absolutely the last thing I want to engage in .... but what's the choice? Way back when, you could take a train from St. Louis to Toronto. I have a friend who lives in Greenwood, ON and he's told me stories about those days.

I've never seen the Dutch equipment you mentioned and would like to see what it looks like. Perhaps a web search would come up with something .......

Tell us a bit about yourself, would you? Sounds as if you've got a wealth of experience regarding railroading - and that's very much appreciated 'round here.

Enjoy the day! Ready for 'nother one?[tup][;)]

Tom
===============================================
Well folks - that's the SUMMARY thus far .........

Gotta get about my day so I'll see y'all soon![tup][;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place




Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2005
  • 901 posts
Posted by nickinwestwales on Thursday, April 28, 2005 4:44 AM
Hey,Tom-another of those cold Molsons please and as it`s payday a round for the house,as and when they straggle in!! Well it`s a day off for me(the best sort-everyone else is working) and blowing a gale out there so time to sit a while. So,Ontario Northland,classic or not?...discuss....[takes me back to schooldays] Well ,first a disclaimer,I`ve never travelled on any of these lines,so all this is "received wisdom" picked up from the (un)official O.N. railfan site,but they caught my imagination. In part because of the manageable size of the outfit (in modelling terms) and partly the off the beaten track,frontier feel of the place. So,the trains, The Northlander runs daily from Toronto up to Cochrane via North Bay ( C.N. trackage to N.Bay ) Normal formation seems to be G.P.38-2,A.P.U (converted "B" unit for car heating ) 2 coaches and a food service car ( coverted G.O.cars ) until fairly recently,power was any one of the last 3 F.P.7a`s dating back to `51 or 2 but retro-fitted with 2000 hp Caterpiller prime movers. Also seen on this service although not sucessful and long withdrawn ,were a number of Dutch built Werkspoor T.E.E units. This service meets bus connections along the route serving the various `branches ` although It`s predecessor the Northland sleeper carried connecting portions and could include virtually anything. Heading north from Cochrane we have the Polar Bear Express,a summer-only tourist run up to Moosonee up in the arctic circle--this is usually a twin G.P38 lashup although Cochrane shed will happily use whats available,usually a dozen plus cars including domes,food service etc ( think these came from B.C.Rail and C.P.R . The Little Bear is the 3-times-weekly mixed to Moosonee--Beyond Cochrane you are in the tree line and the track is the only land route in or out so this is a community lifeline, The little bear runs about a dozen freight cars(lots of flats with big plant,containers etc,fuel tanks,general stores. According to season,a "canoe car" ( bulkhead flat with special racks fitted) and a "moose car" (50` box for dressed carcases) are available. so a thumbnail essay. Thats left me thirsty so same again and i`ll just perch over here at the end of the counter,take care now,nick
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 8:46 PM
One cold Busch draught comin' right up in a frosty mug for earlydiesels

Did you catch that post for you by trolleyboy?

You appear to be very much involved with your volunteer work. Perhaps one day my wife and I will take a trip down your way for a rendezvous ...... The only volunteer work I ever did after I retired was with my local police force. Gave 'em two years (2,000 hours each year) and while most of it was rewarding ..... I'd not recommend it. Reserve police officers are not always appreciated by the "real" cops. Too bad, but such is life. The fact that I spent over 17 years as a "fed" apparently made it worse ...... oh well, a story for another time and place.

I'm glad you enjoy "Our" Place ..... and are "into" it .... that's the idea![tup][;)]

See ya![tup][;)]

Tom(Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 8:11 PM
Hello Tom. A cold Busch draught, please. Our railroad issues a newspaper every season to be given out at the depot to our passengers. It is different each time. Since I have received a promotion, I was asked to submit some thoughts for publication in it. I got very short notice{it goes to setup next week} so I have been racking the old gray matter for something to say. The cold beer is my reward!
Our season officially begins Memorial Day but we have charters, wedding specials, and Scout trips before then. The wife and I are preparing for another busy season. I was able to buy an authentic conductor's uniform last season and am getting a new hat to match. I occasionally like to be conductor but prefer engineering. Since we are all volunteers, sometimes we cannot find conductors so I help out.
Thanks Tom. That was good and thanks for providing this interesting place for interchange of like minded individuals.
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 7:58 PM
[#welcome]Nick! Appreciate your stopping in ..... oh yeah, the Molson's are cold and ready for the frosted mug. First one is on the house .......

Next time you come in, how about sharing some stories with us about those "classics" you mentioned? In "Our" Place WE determine what qualifies as a "classic" - sounds fair to me![:-,]

We gotta get some more of the guys from the "Coffee Shop" to stop in - Friday and Saturday nights we have steaks (and fries) - also Pizza night every Friday - first 8 slices on me ..... BUT, each slice has to be accompanied by at least one purchased mug of brew!

Of course, the idea is to have fun around here ........

See ya![tup][;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2005
  • 901 posts
Posted by nickinwestwales on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 5:54 PM
Well,good evening Tom,I had no idea you had a bar at this end of town-like the Canadian decor. Dont suppose you have a Molsons in that well stocked fridge of yours?...Oh,top man,well done!!...Ah yes,classic trains-how about the Ontario Northland three, The Northlander,The Polar Bear Express and the Little Bear( a real live mixed train!!) worth a look just for the variety of equipment used over the years,gotta run,speak again,nick
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 3:00 PM
Hey Rob! Good to see you again ... was wondering what happened.
Black Label? You bet ...... bottled, nice 'n cold with a frosty mug comin' up!

By the way, I've made a few posts on "Canadian Passenger Railroads - Let's Talk!"
I received a few Emails wondering "what happened" to me ...... nevertheless, I'm not sure that I'll ever get back to the frequency of before, but now and then .......

Also, there is a post on there that really ticked me off ... just cannot seem to get the message across to some people that "chatting" on these forums shouldn't ever disintegrate into political BS ..... you'll know it when you see it. The "guys" should simply not respond to that kind of stuff - on any forum - then perhaps these ingoramuses would get the message. Really ticked me off (hmmmm, I said that already!).

See ya![tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo)
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    May 2014
  • 3,727 posts
Posted by trolleyboy on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 2:02 PM
Hi Tom sorry I've had a cold and didn't want to "share it" with any of you. I'd like a black label though if you have it. Earlytdiesel Yes Tom is right my wife and I are into electric railway preservation.I do both. I'm in the operations dept but I also lend a hand to the maintenance and restortion end of things as well.Have you guys checked with steamtown or any of the other 'steam museums' around they may have the guages that you need, also if your museum belongs to the ARM(assoitiation of railway museums) you may be able to hook uo with and trade with another group for your parts. I know that our museum has delved into the trade/purchase market with other similar museums.As for cars trhat I myself opertate I'm trained for Peter Whitt types and PCC's. I'll conduct on most of the other operational cars at the moment though as my training isn't completed yet. We use a graduated training system you start with the easy cars and work your way up. Also seeing as how the "newest" regularly operated car on the property is a 1951 PCC so training sometime is put on hold as maintenance and restorations need to be completed. Take a gander at the museum's site www.hcry .org. it will list our fleet and give you more info about us. take care all talk to you soon. Rob
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 8:56 AM
Morning Chris,

Quick is right ...... that's our specialty. Hmmmm, so do you own the 'Vette or is your bike in the back? Both perhaps? Upstairs? Well of course that would be my residence .......

I'm going to be riding one of those hope-to-be "classics" late next week. Our annual trek to Halifax aboard the "Ocean." Got "booked" in the Park Car both ways ... that just is so cool. Love sitting up in the dome with my Alexander Keith's Pale Ale - and err, of course, my bride![}:)]

I received quite a surprise the other day involving this hope-to-be "classic" train. While in Halifax visiting with friends and family, I will be taking a solo round trip to Montreal then on to Ottawa aboard those wonderful Budd cars - bedroom is in the adjacent car to the Park going and in the Park car for the return. This is to be my "surprise" birthday present ....... love it! Keeps me in my "train fix" state of mind while my wife spends some quality time with her family. I'll take the Corridor train to Ottawa, in the Renaissance equipment - spend a few hours then get back to Montreal in time to board the evening train. Hope the beer stays cold in my absence .......

For those who are interested: VIA Rail has decided to put another complete consist of Budd cars on the "Ocean" beginning in May. This will provide two complete sets of cars for two round trips weekly each way (Montreal and Halifax). Seems like the "powers that be" in the VIA Rail hierarchy have listened to the travelers who have complained about the Renaissance cars. Actually, the complaints are more in line with "We like the Budd cars better." Well, nothing or no one lasts forever, but as long as they run 'em, I'm willing to pay the price and ride 'em.

Enjoy!
Tom[tup][;)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    May 2003
  • From: Montreal
  • 241 posts
Posted by CFournier on Wednesday, April 27, 2005 8:35 AM
Hi TOM,
This morning, while I'm waiting for "Our place" to open and grab a quick breakfast, I am under the porch, leaning on the wall (behind the light green T-bird this guy looks like me!) and I'm wondering who is the lucky guy who lives upstairs from the café and enjoys all that mainline action behind "Our place".
Chris
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 1:12 PM
G'day Dave ...... from the sounds of what you've had to say, you lead a very interesting life....... hmmmmm, better check those grenades at the door, wouldn't want anyone to confuse them with the "giveaways" at the bar ....[}:)]

Back in '86 (as in 1986, not 1886!), I was assigned to duty in Long Beach, CA. I drove out from my home here in the St. Louis area for an assortment of reasons. The main one being, I wanted my vehicle with me! Anyway, the route I selected (I-40) took me through some country that I hadn't seen before. The railroading that was going on was just awesome to watch. Of course, I had to pay a bit of attention to what I was supposed to be doing ... but those trains just seemed to go on forever.

UP seems to be pretty much chock-blocked throughout their system. Here in Missouri it's been that way for as long as I can recall, and getting worse. Never have figured out the merit of tearing up or selling off rights-of-way that surely could lessen the load on the main lines ....... then again, if I could figure that one out, I'd pretty much be qualified for Rail Czar.[tup][;)]

Glad you appreciate my lack of make up ..... just what kinds of places do you frequent anyway? We don't allow those kinds in here .... well, maybe a dozen or so on Friday and Saturday nights - females of course![}:)]

Ready for 'nother one?

Tom (Siberianmo)
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    February 2005
  • From: Los Angeles
  • 1,619 posts
Posted by West Coast S on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 12:18 PM
Dave from the left coast with a morning to you all..Been away of business in AZ, the I10 corridor to Yuma was jumping with action along the ole Sunset Route. UP was slamming three trains every 30 minutes in both directions north of Indio.

A lot of foreign power, NS,CSX in the consits in additon to some SP patch jobs. Stopped for eats in Indio (Our Place is much better, we have forks and napkins and tom doesn't wear 30 pounds of drugstore makeup!) and watched DPUs and helper movements being added. Back on the road, avoided the Casino..oh, the temptation! Traffic was much reduced the farther east I went, encounterd five movements, three east, two west all with NS power on the point.

Saturday I arrived at the Yuma Proving Grounds, produced my Credentials,Orders, Security Clearance verification got billeted attended a pre ops briefing and assisted the Marines and Air Force in blowing up a few things.

Monday, attend a post ops briefing..Can't find a decent cup of coffee on base, so why linger? Back on the road to LA, no time for the scenery, orders to report you know. Upon my return to duty today I was informed that all the Senior Officials are away for the week at a "I don't need to know location", leaving me in command.

Appreciate you keeping the coffee fresh and hot, I predict its going to be a long week.
SP the way it was in S scale
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 9:50 AM
Good morning all,

Hey Chris! Whadyamean, "slow" - there's all kinds of activity going on in "Our" Place, just not much train talk! Check that table out over there ...... and how about the nearly full bar? Then of course there is the SUMMARY from yesterday ... always have reading material 'round here. Geez!

I just found out that a DVD exists that will go on my "must have" list ... it's the Legendary Canadian. Here's a quote of what I found:

QUOTE: The "Legendary Canadian" features three programs spanning over 45 years of the train's history.
First, "The New Budd Train" is a newsreel program with trackside, onboard and aerial footage showing the "Canadian" being tested behind the Reading F units in the Philadelphia area. Next, CPR's 1955 publicity film introducing "The Canadian" takes us aboard the train and trackside for some spectacular scenes of the train as it travels west to Vancouver. Finally, "Working No. 1" gives us a behind the scenes look at the people and efforts necessary to keep the "Canadian" famous under VIA Rail ownership. You'll be at the shops, in the station, trackside and aboard the train, prior to and during much of No. 1's first leg from Toronto to Capreol.

DVD, NTSC format only. 62 minutes

$29.95 [CDN]

Purchase this item [http://www.cprstore.com/store/books.htm#videos]

Since its inaugural run on April 24, 1955, the classic stainless steel "Canadian" has not only earned a world wide reputation for First Class rail travel but is also a train that legends are made of.


Now this surely is first class entertainment! Too bad it's ONLY 62 minutes .....[;)]

See y'all soon!

Tom in Chesterfield, MO, USA (Siberianmo)

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    May 2003
  • From: Montreal
  • 241 posts
Posted by CFournier on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 9:09 AM
Good morning to you all.
Looks like a slow start this week in our place. Not much conversation going on... I gotta think of some stories worth telling and I'll come back later.
BTW I checked and can't find the schedule for the Chaudière-Appalaches tourist train.[:(!]
Tom, grilled cheese and strong coffee before I go, please.
Chris[;)]
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Monday, April 25, 2005 3:00 PM
SUMMARY OF POSTS The idea of this summary it to catch you up on
what's been discussed since the previous summary ..... saves you some time![tup][;)]

NEWCOMERS[#welcome][;)] Check out the pages from the beginning of this topic ..... it helps to know what's been said BEFORE "jumping in."[:D]

Finally - this is a "Cyber" Bar & Grill. It's a drinking establishment ... the first drink is on the house for newcomers ........ we have a light breakfast menu, great lunch selection of sandwiches and steaks on Friday and Saturday nights. Bar snacks are "freebies," of course. We have an old fashioned juke box - 5 plays for a quarter - lots of "oldies" - and two pool tables in the back room.

So, ENJOY yourself and get into the idea of "Our" Place while taking the time to TALK ABOUT CLASSIC TRAINS!

Tom - the Proprietor of "Our" Place ........ (Click to enlarge)

=====================================================
SUMMARY
QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 24 Apr 2005, 20:03:44
Probably one of the most scenic four hour train trips in the US today is the trip between Seattle and Vancouver Canada. I can think of no other trip of such brevity that offers more scenic wonder than this. Having ridden trains from one end of the country to the other over the last nearly sixty years this trip stands out in my mind more than any other. I made the trip many times on the old GN Internationals and have had the pleasure after Amtrak took over in the early years. This was the only time the early Amtrak years that domes were operated along this line. The trip is slow for the distance traveled but the scenery is worth the time. Probably a close second would be VIA Rails Malahat on Vancouver Island. Another short trip with outstanding scenery. The Caribou Prospector of BC Rail was another outstanding scenic trip but Alas it is now a thing of the past. For a long distance trip it is difficult to beat the Coast Starlight for scenery although it is probably a toss up with the California Zephyr. The Empire Builder would come in a close third for thr Western U S long distance trains. Have ridden the other transcontinental lines and found them pleasant but lacking in scenery. The Eastern lines I have travelled are shorter in distance and much of the scenery is traversed at night.

I can't think of a better way to pass the time than riding aboard passenger trains - but you already know that! My travels began in the 1940's (as a kid) and were greatly diminished over a 32-year active duty military career. I'm trying to catch up .....
The scenery for the Seattle, WA-Vancouver,BC run just has to be stunning .... Amtrak's scheduling leaves a lot to be desired though ... the return trip from Vancouver involves an evening departure with a rather late arrival downtown Seattle. Not at all something to relish - at least in my opinion. So, the northbound is the way to go ....
The "Cariboo Prospector" (note: the "oo," which is the way BC Rail preferred it) was one fine RDC experience not only for the scenery, but the service was excellent as well. I still mourn for the loss of BC Rail and the RDC's.[:(]
Now to the "important" stuff - c'mon passengerfan it's time to belly-up-to-the-bar - gotta pay the bills around here![tup][;)]

QUOTE: talbanese Posted: 24 Apr 2005, 20:28:53
Classis Trains Question?
What was the time difference (if any) between Pennsy & BO from NY to Wash? I know that BO had to use Reading and NJC rails north of Philly. Did this slow them down? Was there a price difference between the two?

First - [#welcome] aboard! Glad you stopped by .... A good idea for "Our" Place is to check out the info from page one, on ........ Gotta know where you've been before you decide where you want to go![;)]

I took those trains from NYC to Baltimore in the 1940's as a youngster during the summer months. I'm sure you'll get an answer or two from the guys .....
NOW - whatillyahave? First one is on the house ......[tup][;)]

QUOTE: timothyheady Posted: 25 Apr 2005, 05:01:20
i vote for 1st place

[#welcome] aboard! Vote? Sorry - you are the proverbial day late and dollar short on that![}:)] The winner was #1 - and was modified along the way ..... check out the posts from page one to present ..... you'll catch up in no time.

So - whatillyahave? First one's on the house ....... [tup][;)]

QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 25 Apr 2005, 13:46:32
Greetings,all from Springburg, Misery. There has been a lot of activity since my last visit. Tom, can I get an order of nachos and a tall,cold glass of water with a lemon, please?

Like the backdated photo. CP only had 3 E8s so to catch 2 together was quite a feat-could'nt read the numbers{they were 1800-02}. Any and all cab units are great!!

There appears to be quite a bit of preservation going in the VA/WV area. Glad to hear about it. For some reason here lately I've been on an B&O kick. Can't explain it unless it might have something to do with the visitor from Baltimore that rode our demonstration railroad last May before we opened the other 5 1/2 miles. Or that a friend who works for a shortline group just came back from helping to start a new railroad in WV that was B&O.

Had a preseason meeting Saturday at the local museum. The caboose interior has been repainted and probably looks as good as built. Since we are trying to find guages to replace the stolen ones and rehab the few we have, we are going to build a door across the back of the steamer's cab so it can be locked. I am not fond about this but being as how so much work has been done to the interior in the last 3 years, I am all for keeping it that way.

Tom, I'd like to hear some old Hank Snow rail songs, please. Maybe Johnny Cash singing the Rock Island Line. That song means more to me now than ever, having had the privilege of operating ex Rock Eunits. Great looking, but slow to load and slippery!Friends of the local library had a book sale to raise funds. Went Sunday and got 7 VHS tapes for $16. Old NKP steam, MILW electrics, ATSF earlydiesels, B&O{there it is again} UP across Mo, and etc.

Trolleyboy, Tom says you're into preservation with empathis on street rrs. All I know about that is that this town had trolleys until 1937 and the wife and I rode a PCC at St Louis's Museum of Transport. Neat ride. Are you involved in operations, maintenance or what?
It sounds like most of Tom's customers were able to ride the great passenger trains when they were still great. I have plenty of books on pass. trains and a few videos but only one memory. My mom and I rode the last Frisco pass. train but being only about 5, I can't remember much. I did save the newspaper article, however.

Nachos - water and lemon? Hmmmmmm, whatever works for you works for me![}:)]
Glad you like the "new look" outside of "Our" Place ..... really a nice fit and great suggestion from our friend CFournier[tup][;)]

Appreciate the insight regarding those EMD E-8's ...... the Rivarossi twin A's were numbered the SAME - can you believe it?! Anyway, they got the number right - 1800. The beauty of model railroading is you can have it anyway you want! Only if life itself could be so accomodating .....

Hank Snow (from Nova Scotia), yeah - throw some quarters in and select: WAITING FOR A TRAIN, BIG WHEELS, THE LAST RIDE, THE STREAMLINE CANNON BALL, GHOST TRAINS, PAN AMERICAN, SOUTHBOUND, WAY OUT THERE, CHATTANOOGA CHOO CHOO, THE WRECK OF THE NUMBER NINE, LONESOME WHISTLE, and THE CRAZY ENGINEER.[tup][;)]

Hey trolleyboy! - c'mon back! Your beer is getting warm .......[tup][;)]
==============================
See y'all soon .......

Tom in Chesterfield, MO, USA

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo

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