"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

THURSDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning Guys! Thursday is Fish ‘n Chips Nite, a tradition at ”Our” Place. No word about Nick’s Picks – but not to worry – we’ve got it covered. Just check out the menu board, right over there …… [tup]

Ready for some hot, freshly brewed Joe[?] Don’t forget the pastry case – filled with products from The Mentor Village Bakery – and of course our staple – a light breakfast to start the day. [yeah]

News of the day:

(1) Tomorrow, August 12th is the 4th month of existence for ”Our” Place on the Classic Trains Forum. We are going to have a special event taking place all day – drop by and offer 4 toasts to the continued success of our cyber bar ‘n grill and you’ll get a free frosty tankard of your favorite draught – or – a hefty glass of JD or Crown Royal! [tup]

Bonus: Tomorrow night, Nick, Chief Chef [C=:-)] will prepare a feast for all – in his own words:

QUOTE: Highland supper evening,---first the ****`a`leekie soup ,then the haggis piped in with due ceremony and observance, next ,the days bag of grouse( actually the birds shot the previous week) a citrus fruit sorbet, a whole double haunch of Welsh black beef roasted mid-well on the outside & mid-rare in the middle followed at a decent interval by a bottle or 6 of a decent single malt

Well, if that doesn’t do it – remember, it’s also Pizza Nite and Steak ‘n Fries nite ‘round here – so be sure to stop by! [tup]

(2) The SUMMARY has changed. Scroll up to read about it …….. This will be the new format, with perhaps a tweak here or there …. But no more redundancy of posts.

Enjoy!

SUMMARY:
Name - Date/Time - (Page#) - Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 08:06:29 (70) Wednesday’s Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 09:44:26 (70) Change has arrived!

(3) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 09:47:50 (70)

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 09:56:26 (70) reply to earlydiesels

(5) passengerfan Al Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 10:22:20 (70)

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug, 10:42:13 (70) reply to passengerfan

(7) alstom Richard Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 12:14:40 (70) First visit to “Our” Place

(8) Cfournier Chris Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 13:18:48 (70)

(9) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 15:30:22 (70)

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 15:48:54 (70) reply to alstom

(11) siberiannmo Tom Posted: Today, 15:59:19 (70) reply to Cfournier

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 16:07:01 (70) reply to Theodorebear

(13) pwolfe Pete Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 18:11:33 (70)

(14) West Coast S Dave Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 18:25:15 (70)

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 19:00:10 (70) reply to pwolfe

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 19:12:12 (70) reply to West Coast S

(17) passengerfan Al Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 19:44:17 (71)

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 20:04:47 (71) reply to passengerfan

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 21:40:59 (71) Our Place Cast of Characters

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 22:50:21 (71)

(21) CFournier Chris Posted: 10 Aug 2005, 23:57:13 (71)

(22) Gunns Kevin Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 02:21:05 (71)

(23) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 02:34:18 (71) reply to trolleyboy

(24) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 02:42:37 (71) reply to Cfournier

(25) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 02:47:41 (71) reply to Gunns

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[Gunns]

Hey [b]Tom,
Yer up late,

I've been thinking about cars again, Seems to me that the Pulman cars pulled rail travel from something that was "endured" to something that was enjoyable. When my family came west they walked pushing a cart, and were amazed by the speed of rail travel, but comented that having teeth pulled would be more fun. My parents however tell of train travel West to East and back as an exciting and fun experiance, and wish for the "Day" to return. So the Question is, were pulman heavy weights better than the lighter cars that came later? Economics are not what I'm after, but for comfort, and plesure in travel. Could a "Cruise Train" make it today, <American Orent express comes to mind>? And if so what would be better to use for cars?

Have Fun
Gunns

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom and all other early birds! I'll have the light breakfast. No .... make that 3 light breakfasts, as I'm goofing off again today!
I'm barely back online because I'm using a regular phone line connection, as my broadband is giving us intermittant service. I'm convinced it's the modem (maybe). [:p]
I haven't been to the Illinois Railway Museum in a few weeks. It will be interesting to see the construction progress made in this time. You can see some of that on my Rail Image page. It's been hot here, pretty much the same as everyone else, and little to no rain. This summers weather is going to be memorable.
Have a good day all, and if possible, a great one!

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom How about a coffee and one of those diet pastries from the Mentor. Just have to answer Gunns about the lightweight versus heavyweight passenger car ride.
First let me begin by saying that if Pullman had had their way the streamline era probably would never have happened. They resisted change and were quite happy with the 12-1 heavyweight car or battleship as it became affectionately known. They were content with 12 sections and 1 drawing room. It was the railroads themselves that first put presssure on Pullman for Bedrooms, Compartments and Roomettes. At first Pullman rebuilt many of the old 12-1 cars to newer type cars with the other type accommodations or offered new heavyweight cars built new with these accommodations and assigned them to trains like the Florida Special and Orange Blossom Special in the winter and operated them in the Los Angeles Limited and other western trains in the summer months.
The major changes came with the lightweight streamlined era and continued.
You asked about ride comparison. The six wheel trucks under many of the heavyweights gave a very solid ride when one considers it was all jointed rail. The lightweights provided a very comfortable ride but it really depended on the four wheel trucks they wre equipped with. Railroiads that bought large numbers of lightweights tended to go cheap on the trucks they rode on. The more a railroad spent on trucks the better the ride seems to be in the case in the lightweights.
The American Orient Express cars are all lightweights that have been rebuilt for luxury travel. It is my understanding that part of the rebuilding of these cars was additional weight added to the floor of the cars by way of poured concrete. This additional weight did not exceed the weight the four wheel trucks could accommodate. It is my understanding that the trucks were changed on some of their cars and others were remodeled during rebuilding. I haven't personally experienced a ride on this train yet but from what I have heard and read they are probably among the finest riding cars in North America.
Few luxury trains have had much success in the North American market.
The Superliner ii cars are among the best riding in todays mass produced cars. The earlier Superliner I cars had a much rougher ride. The old Santa Fe Hi-Levels were among the finest riding cars ever built.
Now if you ask me if a luxury train could make it in todays market place I would say yes but it would depend on the routes chosen and would have to follow the example of AOE to be a success.
Dinner trains run the gamot today from simple BBQ alongside the train to truly excellent dinner trains such as the Napa Valley Wine Train.
As to Tourist rail operations they also run the gamot from what I have seen and the better ones are still around. It seems to me if they last ten years then they will make it.
The cruise ship industry in Alaska has introduced the Ultra Domes a new facet of luxury rail travel that has spread to a number of companies in the Alaska and Canada market.
I think one would probably have to spend in excess of 1 million per car to enter the luxury train place today and the routes chosen would make or break any operation that even thinks about this segment of the rail market.
It's up to all of us with an interest in rail travel to pass thi interest on to our children and grandchildren or trains in North America are going to go the way of the DoDo bird.
Enough of my rambling this early AM. I'll be back when the bar opens.

[siberianmo]

Mornin’ Guys! Glad to see some early birds ‘round here ….

Gunns Kevin As I said – insomnia, a side benefit of the onsest of old age!

Your comments regarding passenger rail travel over time are interesting. Makes sense that the mode of travel would have gotten better. I can well imagine the comments back when the stage coaches were in use!

In my list of things that bother me, put Cruise Trains right up there with wet toilet paper and warm beer. Not my favorite things at all. However, I DO think they would make it in today’s society. There’s lots of expendable bucks out there – lots of ‘em. Just look at the price of fuel and the apparent blasé attitude of those driving cars. Casinos ‘round these parts are packed – ball park is jammed – money isn’t the issue, at least not yet. So, yes – excursion trains can and do make it work for THEM. Otherwise there’d be no American Orient Express. Call up that web site and strap yourself in when in comes to pricing – same for the Rocky Mountaineeer. Good grief!

Can’t argue with one facet of what you had to say – better to use the cars than not.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Mornin’ barndad Doug

Three light breakfasts? Hmmmmmm – why not![?] [swg]

Wish I had some sage advice for you regarding your internet service – it just drives many of us crazy, no matter what the monthly outlay! Well, we’re happy that you’ve found a way to connect with us. [yeah][tup]

Suggestion – why not post your rail image URL from time to time[?] I’ve found that when these are put on the threads – the guys will click on ‘em rather than take the time to go elsewhere …….

See ya!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Morning everyone. Tom, I'll take some joe and something from the Mentor bakery. I have a weakness for plain donuts. Is there any to be found?
I have found it interesting and enlightning the previous comments about luxury trains and ride comparisons between heavy and lightweights. Some of the old Trains mags I have been reading of late have articles about Amtrak's formation and the inventory of cars prior to startup. Everything concerning these cars was discussed and ride quality was delved into quite well and left me with a better understanding. My experience is limited to the lightweights we rode on the M&NA once, RDCs, and the Midland. There, the heavyweights with 6 wheel trucks ride superb over the 4 wheel trucks, with the exception of our "new" Canadian coaches with that funky 4 wheel Commonwealth truck. They ride like the older 6 wheel cars.
More coffee, please. Tom, have a seat--not much going on right now so can relax and hopefully Boris will stay out of trouble. Luxury trains must be doing something right. Look at all the money spent on the equipment and you know dealing with Amtrak would'nt be either easy or cheap. They obviously cater to the extreme high end of clientele who have plenty of disposable income. Alaska RR found their niche in the cruise ship business and have been doing quite well. Look at all the new equipment they have bought the past couple of years. Two of their officials were in KC 2 seasons ago on business and rode the Midland. After I found out who they were, they rode the cab of the RS3 with me. Great guys. Made the comment to my fireman that they now knew where to get engineers!
I wish Amtrak would get the funding it needs to return first class service to the rails. I also wi***heir service area would expand to areas where there is no pass trains. With energy costs ever soaring, something has to be done to reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

[siberianmo]

G’mornin’ passengerfan Al

Bar IS open ‘round here at 6 AM! Pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery come in ‘round 5ish.

As always, your discussion is quite interesting and evocative of things to say. I had read about the Pullman folks being reluctant to let go of the heavyweights – but considering the investment in equipment, parts and support, it probably made some sense. But one can’t hold out forever, change marches on ……

I’ve only seen the American Orient Express on PBS …. Looks to be a grand experience for a heft price and hardly a real railroading experience. Alas – perhaps one day not too far off, these will be the ONLY ways to travel the USA by long distance rail’

As much as I hate to cave in on this business of excursion and upscale trains – they are here to stay, at least as long as there are those with pockets deep enough to pay the freight – so to speak. That leaves me out, for sure. VIA Rail has all but put the Canadian in that category. Sure, it’s still scheduled (3 days a week in each direction) and sure they provide coach service, but all in all, that train is for tourists. Without the tourist dollars, there’d simply be insufficient demand. It’s a sad reality that hits home hard, really does.

Nothing or no one can bring a smile to my face quicker than heading to the platform where the gleaming silver & blue Budd streamliners await my boarding! Ahhhhhhhh.
[yeah]

Boris Ring the bell, and give ‘em all a double of OJ, on me this fine mornin’! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'mornin' earlydiesels Dan

Quite busy this fine day - and that's good! Gotta pay those bills .... these freebies are killin' me! It's a good thing that our special parties bring in the bucks to afford that blasted bell! [swg]

Plain donuts - [yeah] right over in the pastry case, to the left of the custard filled Long John's ....... [yeah]

If wishes were horses ..... somehow that saying fits many situations. Amtrak and first class passenger rail service somehow doesn't get it in my mind's eye. Sorry. I'm NOT an Amtrak basher - never have and hopefully will never be. However, I am a realist and I know that even with sufficient funding to do all of the things we'd like, there are bigger issues. Really. Instutional malaise on the part of so many employees - so many who were hired to fill gaps, who now have job security - more or less. These people are the ones we deal with whether aboard the trains or over the phone or at the stations. Anyone who has traveled Amtrak within the past couple of decades knows full well what I'm referring to. Cancer spreads - -pure and simple.

Alaska sells rail because it's Alaska! Sure the cruise ship folks would like to take the credit - but that journey from Anchorage up to Fairbanks would be a great attraction in spite of what the cruise ship industry has done to (or for) the railroad. It's just a matter of how the tourists get there ........ My wife and I are planning that trip for next year - and we're flying directly to Anchorage. I'm in hopes that when we book the train, I can do so WITHOUT getting caught up in the nonsense associated wtih these blasted organized tours. Really spoils the atmosphere as far as we're concerned. But, that's just my [2c] on the matter.

Se ya and glad you're spending the day with us! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Morning once again Tom and everyone else with insomnia. My problem is called writers block chaffing at the bit waiting for the info I need to complete the Tome. I should add one thing about the Heavyweight Pullmans If that company had there way A/C would still be of the ice variety as they stayed away from mechanical until the streamline era forced them to change. At least their would still be many Ice Houses around the country that are long gone now. I still stick with my argument about the trucks. The trucks under lightweight AT&SF, BN, UP, SCL, CN and CP cars were for the most part excellent. Amtrak went to much expense in the early years rebuilding certain trucks adding swing hangers to those they could etc. Another railroad that sent amtrak equipment with excellent ride quality trucks was the Milwaukee Road. The trucks under the cars determined which P/S and AC&F and SLC passenger cars that Amtrak would keep and convert to HEP.
Planning on an Alaskan Tour myself next year but will take Amtrak from the Central Valley to Seattle where we will board the ship. for Alaska. Cruise ends in Seward where we will board the ARR for Anchorage. Have friends in Anchorage so will spend a couple of days their before boarding the ARR for Fairbanks and return. We will then fly to Seattle where it will once again be Amtrak home. Decided to book all of the ARR myself separate from the cruise. The cruise will include the Narrow Gauge White Pass & Yukon. Having been a regular in Alaska for six yeras I have already rode the old trains from Anchorage to Fairbanks but would like to try the Ultra Domes which the ARR just bought and received this year. Having taken virtual tours of several of the Cruise ship owned Ultra Domes I could not resist.

[siberianmo]

G'day passengerfan Al

Didn't catch your order - but there's a Crown Royal right in front of you! [tup]

Can't determine whether you caught my comments right before your post about Alaska. Anyway, we're still in the early planning stages and haven't finalized a thing. I've thought about taking a ship up from Seattle - did that in 1960, only it was aboard a USCG Cutter - through the inland passage then out into the Gulf of Alaska to our homeport in Kodiak. I digress ...... Anyway, there are two criteria for this journey of ours: (1) Anchorage to Fairbanks and return by train - stopover at Denali. (2) The White Pass & Yukon. Something to ponder ...... [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

G'day Tom.
The other trip to look at on the ARr is the seward to Anchorage trip. I think this trip offers more wildlife and scenery per mile than the Anchorage - Fairbanks run. The ARR is running the former Florida Fun train equipment on the Anchorage - Seward run. The run from Anchorage to Denali and Fairbanks is twelve hours and the train carries numerous Cruise Ship Ultradomes on the rear of the ARR equipment. The ARR bought their first Ultradomes that were delivered this year and the virtual tour of these cars shows no expense was spared.

[siberianmo]

Hello Again passengerfan Al

Ready for 'nother one [?] Remember, gotta pay those bills! [swg]

I figure we'll have about 6 or 7 days in Alaska and my thoughts are to maximize them when it comes to traveling by rail. That's why we're going. Anyway, I appreciate your thoughts and will look into the options available.

We absolutely are going to Fairbanks. I made that run in 1959 when the U.S. Army ran the rails, along with virtually everything else. No cruise ship crowds back then! [yeah]

We're hoping to find a run to Fairbanks when those crusie ship cars are not on the line. Much rather go on our own and without having to be here or there when they say so. In your experiences, is it feasible to avoid those groups on the run to Fairbanks?

Given that time is somewhat limited for us, we're more than likely going to fly to Anchorage. Make the round trip to Fairbanks. Then down to Seward to catch the White Pass & Yukon - back to Anchorage - then home. The itinerary looks feasible - expensive - and full of things to do. Of course as the price of oil sky rockets - perhaps all of this will be nothing more than planning ........ [:(]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ”Our” Place:

1. This is a cyber bar ‘n grill for adults who appreciate Classic Trains – real and model – and enjoy a bit of humor while discussing them.

2. This thread was started as an alternative to those where hit ‘n run postings are the norm. Here, we strive to be inclusive with all who participate as regulars. There will be those who stop by to check us out and they will receive an appropriate [#welcome] from the Proprietor along with encouragement to join us. Keep in mind, this is not the typical thread seen elsewhere. One has to earn a regular place at this bar.

3. To be a regular all one needs to remember is to participate and contribute to the topic on a regular basis.

4. We have a Birthday Watch List for all regulars. To sign up, just provide your birth date (month-date-year). We’ll schedule a cyber Birthday Bash for you on the day of your choice.

5. We have an Order of the Stools Club whereby regular customers of the bar receive recognition as either permanent or reserved holders of ”Our” Place bar stools.

6. We feature SUMMARIES of postings by our customers. They are provided to help with catching up on periods of absence. They also contain relevant information at the beginning for all customers.

7. The bar is CLOSED on Sunday and Christmas Day. However, submissions may be dropped off in the mail slots on either set of front doors.

8. The Proprietor of “Our” Place only asks that you enjoy yourself while here, but requests that before posting information, take the time to catch up with what you may have missed. To do otherwise turns this thread into what we’ve been trying to avoid.

Thanx!

Tom

[Anonymous]

Man it's hot! Been out watering the (used to be) grass. That calls for a ice cold, house draught. Thanks Tom. Right now anyplace where it is cool sounds good. Snow in Australia yesterday. Could use the moisture here.
Just checking in to see what's happening. Well, the companionship, the A/C, and a good cold beer attracted me , too. Think I'll lounge back here in the corner and soak up the atmosphere.

[siberianmo]

G'day earlydiesels Dan

While you're back there, drop a handful of quarters from the jar into the JUKE. We need some sounds - some Johnny Cash, Hank Jr. or Alabama would be nice. [tup]

Cardinals and Cubs are in a rain (what's that[?]) delay before the start of their game up at Wrigley - so the 3 TV's have nothing special right now. You can throw in a tape if you'd like - they all have VCR's. Haven't converted over to DVD's quite yet - have a quite an extensive video library .......

One of the rail adventures my wife and I have talked about for years is the trip across the Australian continent. The internet has some great info ..... We had thought about going down there for at least 4 months - [yeah] you read that right. During that time we'd live in a community - move on every 3 weeks or so. Also head over to New Zealand, although we've been told first hand to avoid their rail system. As with most things I come up with, this one really is a stretch. But, it's always nice to think about it ..... [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Hello Tom How about a CR and a round for the house.
My first wife was from Australia and made sevearl trips their in the years we were married. Have ridden the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth twice and it is truly a world class train. No domes bu the equipment is stainless steel built under license from Budd. The people are friendly and helpful. I personally would like to take the new trip the Ghan for the entire distance from South to North. This one has only been completed and open for a couple of years. Saw a travel video on this train and it looked as good as the Indian Pacific. I would also like to someday ride the Blue Train in South Africa.

[siberianmo]

G'day passengerfan Al

Boris time to ring it again - Al's baaaaaaack! [swg] Thanx, Al! [tup]
There was a time when we thought my wife could get away for her sabbatical at a time between dogs. That probably requires a bit of explaination: She teaches at one of our unviersities ...... our 16 year old Siberian Husky had passed on and we were relatively free to consider some serious travel. Four months down under sounded right.

Well, things have a way of developing - time moved on - and here we are, pretty much back where we were. This time, our Siberian Husky is going on 28 months and we're absolutely devoted to him. Comes in 2nd to my love of trains! [swg] That and the situation in the world since Sep 11th, 2001 changed everything as far as we're concerned. Believe me, it's not fear - it's just a reluctance to leave the USA - even going to Canada these past couple of years has been - well - different. Don't like the feeling at all, not at all .......

I've known several Aussies in my time - many with the Australian Federal Police. In fact, when i was assigned to Long Beach/Los Angeles, I spent quite a bit of tiem over at the Aussie and Kiwi Consulates ...... great people. Fantastic hospitality for sure., One day, hopefull, someday we'll get there ......

Have 'nother on me[?]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[pwolfe]

HI Tom and all
Can I have a KATY PALE ALE please, got to keep the local brewers in business
[^] also have you any buffalo wings. The first time I tried them I was told that they made from real buffalo I thought they tasted like chickhen.[(-D].
Anyway thanks trolleyboy and cfornier for the info. You are right the tender was used for non-stop runs between LONDON AND EDINBURGH 393 miles with a crew change north of York. Not all the A4's were fitted with these in fact the one in Green Bay has a non -corridor tender.I have asked my friend in England to see if this is unique in A4 preservation. There are six saved including the two in North America .I have found a british steam mag with the A4 and A3 in if you drop me a e-mail you are welcome to it.
Yes MALLARD is the same class.
I have got the latest issue of CLASSIC TRAINS a great mag has it only been going for 5 years as I seem to remember getting it in late 2000 but I could be wrong
[?] I am a steam buff at heart but I would loved to have seen and heard those GG1's on a fast freight.
[wow]those buffalo wings were great compliments to the [C=:-)] I'll have a bathems to wa***hem down. Hope to call in tomorrow cheers.

[siberianmo]

G'day pwolfe Pete

Katy Trail Pale Ale comin' up ..... we're not big on micro-brews 'round here, but we try! [swg] Flat Branch Pub & Brewing of Columbia, MO just shipped us a car load of their products .....

Looks like you are checking out the posts - which is a good sign. Many times that's not the case with a few guys who have visited us on infrequent basis. Obviously, not your style. [tup] The idea 'round here is to keep the conversations going and to be as inclusive as possible. We all get on our [soapbox] now 'n then ... or even [#offtopic], but by and large, Classic Trains is what we're striving to discuss.

If someone smuggled in buffalo wings, I need to sig Boris on 'em! Our menu is rather limited and I'll have to check 'round a bit to post it again. That's not to say we can't cook 'em - but this being our Fish 'n Chips nite, along with our traditional huge sandwich lucheon fare (subs, grinders, hoagies, hero's - your call!) and not daytime Chef, we do what we can! [swg]

When is that diesel show at KCity's Union Station supposed to be scheduled[?] I couldn't find anything on it ........

See ya in the 'morrow and don't forget your 4 toasts to "Our" Place .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

good evening Tom and the gang.I'll have a CR while Isit here. Tom I'm not a stranger to the occastional bout of insomnia myself ( comes with my line if work speacially around the holidays) Some warm milk with cinnamon always works for me.Don't let Boris use his home remady he mentioned something about a 2X4 and a pillow[XX(] I've been meaning to get to Delson myself,I'm thinking a thought I'll ponder it for a while and send you an email later once it's hatched.ChrisThe next time you visit haida you will have to go to Hamilton it's been moved to HMCS STARR on the Hamilton waterfront. This happened last year after her 2003 refitt in Port weller. Go to haida's website they have some good pictures of her being moved to St Catharines for the refitt and then to hamilton. I've visited the North Carolina and the Buffalo ships as well. And Patriots Point in Charlestown for the Yorktown a USCGC and a destroyer and submarine.Tom I've yet to warm up to most of the tourist traps trains either. Other than the Agawa canyon train on the ACR because it's a genuine 8 hour run with food service and domes.Too bad they removed the nice ABBA sets that ran on it and replaced them with an SD75 and hep car. Kinda draggy tonight so I'm turning in early. Later all. Rob

[siberianmo]

Howdy Rob

Been wonderin' whether anyone would stop in during the night. We had a very busy afernoon - then suddenly ....... Lotsa Fish 'n Chips left over. Boris 'n Leon brought a couple of trays over to the Mentor Village Constabulary. [yeah]

With the airline fares zooming - and they are from here to Toronto - along with the associated fuel increased pricing, one only wonders whether flying anywhere will remain in the budget ........ [tdn]

Sure would love to experience the Algoma Central's run ... .from what you've told me by Email and on these threads, it sounds like a sure winner! [tup]

See ya later! AND DON'T FORGET YOUR FOUR TOASTS TO "OUR" PLACE .....

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

FRIDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Today is the 4th Month Anniversary for “Our” Place – a cyber bar ‘n grill.

So, let’s get started with the 4 toasts:

(1) "Here's to every man here,
May he be what he thinks himself to be."

(2) "Here's to the man who is wisest and best,
Here's to the man who with judgment is blest.
Here's who's as smart as he can be -
I mean the man who agrees with me!"

(3) "May the roof above us never fall in,
And may we friends gathered below never fall out."

(4) "May you have warm words on a cold evening,
A full moon on a dark night,
And the road downhill all the way to your door."

Hoist your glasses in toast to the continued success of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment where the talk of Classic Trains reigns!

drop by and offer 4 toasts to the continued success of our cyber bar ‘n grill and you’ll get a free frosty tankard of your favorite draught – or – a hefty glass of JD or Crown Royal! [tup]

News of the Day:

Bonus: Tonight, Nick, Chief Chef [C=:-)] will prepare a feast for all – in his own words:

QUOTE: Highland supper evening,---first the ****`a`leekie soup ,then the haggis piped in with due ceremony and observance, next ,the days bag of grouse( actually the birds shot the previous week) a citrus fruit sorbet, a whole double haunch of Welsh black beef roasted mid-well on the outside & mid-rare in the middle followed at a decent interval by a bottle or 6 of a decent single malt

Well, if that doesn’t do it – remember, it’s also Pizza Nite and Steak ‘n Fries nite ‘round here – so be sure to stop by! [tup]

Enjoy!

SUMMARY:
Name - Date/Time - (Page#) - Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 02:53:46 (71) Thursday’s Summary

(2) Gunns Kevin Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 03:04:03 (71)

(3) barndad Doug Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 06:24:00 (71)

(4) passengerfan Al Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 06:50:45 (71)

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 08:11:50 (71) reply to Gunns

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 08:28:43 (71) reply to barndad

(7) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 09:10:38 (71)

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 09:13:24 (71) reply to passengerfan

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 14, 09:27:25 (71) reply to earlydiesels

(10) passengerfan Al Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 10:29:23 (71)

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 11:47:55 (71) reply to passengerfan

(12) passengerfan Al Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 12:24:10 (72)

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 13:25:30 (72) reply to passengerfan

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 13:35:20 (72) Things to Know About “Our” Place

(15) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 13:46:05 (72)

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 13:56:31 (72) reply to earlydiesels

(17) passengerfan Al Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 14:14:25 (72)

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 200, 15:24:51 (72)

(19) pwolfe Pete Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 18:32:01 (72)

(20) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 19:00:25 (72) reply to pwolfe

(21) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 11 Aug 2005, 23:47:05 (72)

(22) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Aug 2005, 07:05:44 (72) reply to trolleyboy

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[Gunns]

Morning Tom,
Doors are open, how about breakfast, n coffee.
Im buying for my toasts

1. May the rails sing, and the linnen be fresh.

2. May the sun never set on "Class Acommadations"

3. May Borris not find the chilli in the back room

4. Let the music roll.

Gunns

[siberianmo]

G'mornin' Gunns Kevin

Thanx for responding and helping to usher in our 4th month on the Classic Trains Forum! You get the xtra large, frosty cold tankard of your favorite brew! [tup]

There are times when I really WONDER about the guys 'round here. Feast or famine. Some read, some don't. Some participate, some won't. It's really no way to start the day ........ [tdn]

As my toasts indicated in the opening remarks of the SUMMARY, we've got a special day - so let's enjoy it! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Okay - that's it! If you need to talk to me I'll be in the The Rat’s Patoot Room
That area just to the left of the Juke, to the right of the pool tables, and catywumpus from the Hizzens and Herins rooms, is where it’s at! [swg] The idea is to use the room in order to vent when whatever overwhelms you takes charge. There are some comfortable chairs in there – padded walls – and a couple of punching bags too! [tup] So, it's my turn to vent …….[banghead][censored]

Cindy has the bar!

Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[Trainnut484]

Afternoon Tom and everyone [:)] AAAHHH finally some rain and cooler weather. Cindy, I'll have my usual (Miller Lite). (Opens Rat Patoot Room door) Hello Tom. Man, looks like you've worked up a sweat. I'll put a quarter in the jukebox for "Eye Of The Tiger" while you keep punching the bag [;)]

Sorry I haven't checked in for a bit. My modem has some output issues and sometimes I'm able to get on the internet, and sometimes I get that &*#@% [censored] "Cannot Find Server" message. My IP service is sending a tech out to my house later today.

Also I'm a full time college student so that dampens my online pleasure time.
(Network and Communications Management is what I'm majoring in)

I've been able to read some of the summaries.

[#welcome] to Pwolfe and other newcomers to "OUR" Place.

OOOHHHKAAYYY now for the four toasts.

1) To our brave service men and women fighting in Iraq. Hopefully they'll be coming home soon.

2) To the many many people kicking the smoking habit encouraged by the passing of ABC anchorman Peter Jennings.

3) To small business people who just made their first profit

4) To the mailman that brings me my MR [:D]

Take care,

Russell

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all
Happy anniversary. My four toasts
1 HEALTH AND HAPPINESS TO ALL
2 MAY BOTH SIDES OF THE POND ALWAYS BE FRIENDS
3 MAY WE ALWAYS LEAVE YOUR BAR HAPPIER THAN WE WENT IN
4BLESSING OF YOUR HEART YOU SELL GOOD ALE (Shakespeare)

Thanks trainnut484 for the welcome .
Tom I think I read about the diesels in the Kansas City Star but it doesnt say on Union station web site. They are having a model railroad expo on September 24 and 25

I had better have a Bathams please[tup]. I hope to be able to call in tonight for the highland supper and I'll have a bottle of the Bathams strong ale to celebrate unless you have ORKNEYS DARK ISLAND[wow]

[Anonymous]

Gadfry Daniel! Tom, please a tall Crown and soda if you can "tear yourself away" from the punching bag for just a "mo." If I didn't know better, I would swear that "cyber fate" was against the entire Membership of "Our" Place.[:O] Wednesday morning my Puter did a sputter, a cacophony of digital tones and emitted a unmistakable odor of frying electronics. I recall several of us having "quirky" lapses in sevice, the most recent being Russell. Well, as of yesterday, "it" came to $73.83 for a new power supply plus $59.00 for an upgrade (128 to 256). Then today, our usual afternoon "Thundisbreak" struck with gale force wnds, killer lightning, deafening thunder and horizontal sheets of rain. I was knocked off-line while catching-up with the previous Posts.[:(!] Finally I made it back, so I won't bore you with the 35 minute "phone chat" I had with my ISP "trouble shooter" getting back on-line (still trying to identify her accent...Mozambique?)[banghead]

Congratulations to all Members of "Our" Place on the joyous occasion of our Fourth Month Observance Day. These "Four Toasts" could be downright intoxicating but I shall overcome all caution and do my duty:

1) Here's to the Founder/Proprietor Tom, without whom there would be no "Our" Place.

2) Here's to the fine quality of contributions made by our erstwhile and steadfast Members.

3) ]Here's to the cordial "hail fellow well met" atmosphere of "Our Place. May it never change.

4) Lastly, may the splinters on the Banister of life always point in the direction we slide.[swg]

Rob please don't worry about the pix of "little K.C.!" They really aren't the equal to the Thread's usual quality. Appreciate the thought though. As to the comfort of Heavyweights as opposed to the Lightweights, passengerfan Al, I think the "Super Domes" have the "edge." Gunns, the Auto Train (Va. to Fl) and El Capitan (Chi. to K.C.) clinched it for me. However, my personal preference is still having 12 wheels under me. Pullman's "moss back" policies for modernizing hardly comes as a surprise. Most of us remember something about their attitude toward "striking" employees back in "the good old days."[:O] Tom, glad to hear the 'S'quisite news of your rolling stock arriving.[:D] BTW, couldn't help agreeing with your latest assessment of foreign travel. Ireland made a believer out of me (shudder-achoo), if you know what I mean.[:-^] "Grouches of a feather?"

Let's have a short chorus of "For he's a jolly good fellow" sung for "good ole" Tom who came up with the idea for this unique Forum among forums.[tup] Say Boris, how 'bout a big clang on "Old 99's" bell to keep this event jolly? [C=:-)] Nick great "Picks," you've done it again![tup] Happy rails all, Ted

[siberianmo]

Okay Cindy, I'm back ...... thanx for minding the store! My, my - that's quite an outfit you're almost wearing today! [;)][}:)][:-,]

Nice to finally see some familiar faces at the bar ....... [tup] Was beginning to wonder about the regulars 'round here.

While taking a time out from beating the bejezus out of the bag in the Rat's Patoot Room I took in the movie, The Great Raid. Worthwhile flick my friends and highly recommended. This is the WWII story of the U.S. Army Rangers' raid on the Japanese prison camp in the Philippines known as Cabanatuan. Over 500 of our troops from the Bataan Death March were about to be burned to death when the Rangers raided the camp, and Philippino scouts participated - successfully getting them all out. Only one POW died, and that was after they arrived safely behind American lines. Recommended viewing ......... [tup][tup][tup] One thing that I came away with is that the film was shot in China and Australia, which kind of says a lot about the state of relations between the Philippines and the U.S. these days. A shame, for sure.

Okay - some catch up is in order:

Trainnut484 Russell You qualify for the xtra large frosty cold tankard of your favorie brew - or - a healthy belt of JD or Crown Roayl. Thanx for the 4 toasts - interesting messages. [tup]

pwolfe Pete ditto for you regarding the complimentary brew or booze ...... [swg] I will be communicating with you regarding the Amtrak trip to KCity. Send me an Email with the days of the week that work best for you and we'll coordinate ........ Thanx for the 4 toasts! You are fast becoming a regular customer, which is very much appreciated. [tup][tup]

Ted What's to say other than, Where the Hades have you been[?] [swg] As I mentioned in a previous post - you are on the payroll, or have I missed something - on vacation[?] Hmmmmmm - perhaps. Oh well ....... any post from you is more than worth the wait. 'Puter problems and connectivity problems are the scourge of the day, or so it seems. [tdn]

Those 4 toasts are terrific, Ted and I'd say you are far and away the choice for the Anniversary Award. Ready for this[?] Perhaps not. The Penthouse Suite with a companion, of course, for whatever night suits ya!! [:-,][}:)] However, we've got to wait it out 'n see the remainder of the day's contributions.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]