"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[Anonymous]

Barndad, really enjoyed the pix of the McKeen "motorcar." Looks like something out of a Flash Gordon weekly serial. The power plant is even more challanging to the imagination. The later "gas electric" variations on this theme had the louvered air intake vents on the bulkhead and that curious arched panel faring blending into the roof line. What was the function of this 'above the cab' ducting? I can only guess that it has something to do with either the cooling system for the engine or heating the rest of the car??? The later dieselized versions had windshields where the louvers where before. I suppose you could loosely call these hybrids "Classic" in that they are "one of a kind."

Tom, as much as I love dogs, I must r.s.v.p. the offer. Can't say I blame you for axing the cruise option. I worked cruise ships out of Miami (Carnival) and gained 18 lbs. in just 3 weeks. From then on, I would accept only "sub" positions of not more than 2 weeks at a time. Sorry to say that Carribean ports were less than thrilling. Also, the claustrophobic cabins didn't make cruises any more attractive either. I'll bet my "bottom dollar" that you guys will have a great rail experience as planned.

Folks, the situation in New Oreleans is looking more dire by the hour. For those of you so inclined, it would certainly not be inappropriate to remember these people in your petitions to a "higher authority." The French Quarter can always be restored but 28% of that City's population is at or below the poverty level. They literally have no place to go. The aftermath, no doubt, will be a worse ordeal than the initial storm damage itself. Anything we can individually do, no matter how meager, can only help the victims. I hate to say "so long" on such a sobering note but it isn't anything you probably haven't already been thinking about. So long.

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Guys ......... just dropped off the Boyz from their day in the forest .... it's get's more challenging each week. Phew! [swg]

Gunns Kevin How in the world did your note make it to the fi***ank [?] There's no way you could do that again! [swg] Once again, that URL was really worth checking out. [tup]

Ted No sweat regarding Juneu - just testing the waters! [swg] Insofar as cruises go, I'm simply not into them, nor is my bride. For me, I spent all the time I'll ever spend on ships - and feel pretty much the same about these cruises as I do regarding excursion passenger trains like the Rocky Mountaineer. If it can't be the real thing - or close to it - then I'll pass, thanx.

Grim situaiton in N'rlns and perhaps collective positive thinking can make a difference. These storms have had unexpected changes in course ......... nonetheless, some folks in the path are really in for it.

See in the 'morrow!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Well hey everybody,[4:-)]TOM-would you be so good as to organise a round of drinks for this bunch of ne`r`do`wells-good man,here take it out of that, and use the change for the jukebox--thats the ticket-ruby tuesday for me,the rest are up to you-TOM-whilst on the subject of Sir Mick & the boyzs,the kick-off gig you mentioned is apparently a talismanic "First show of the tour" tradition that Keith likes....and as a rule ,what Keith likes is what happens....what it must be like to be rich and famous eh ? gonna go and catch up now , back in a bit,nick[C=:-)]

[nickinwestwales]

On a more serious note,the BBC have only picked up on your hurricane tonight,it sounds like the bayuou country is going to get a hammering tonight,lets hope everybodys out safe when it hits,TED-hope you still have somewhere to live,speak tomorrow,regards to all,nick [C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Hel,lo Nick

Sorry - we're Closed on Sunday's - just Posts thru the mail slots ... [swg]

So, you are aware of Mick 'n the Boyz and their apparent affinity towards St. Louis, eh [?] Last report was that the top ticket reached $350 at the box office sale. That's over the top ........ next tour perhaps should at a seniors facility! [swg]

Bad scene in the N'rlns area for sure. Hoping for the best and trying to find adequatre shelter is all that's left .........

Catch ya later .....

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

MONDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

G’day all! Not much to offer this morning other than to say, hope the start of a new week is productive for all ……..

Grab a cuppa Joe – some bakery goods and a light breakfast to help with the start-up! [swg]

News of the Day:

Hope for the best for all in the path of Hurricane Katrina.

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) barndad Doug Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 07:17:42 (89) McKeen pix

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 07:17:50 (89) Sunday’s News & Summary

(3) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 07:56:54 (89)

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 08:33:10 (89) reply to Theodorebear

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 14:59:17 (89) reply to barndad

(6) Gunns Kevin Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 16:33:59 (89)

(7) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 19:15:06 (89)

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 19:27:07 (89) reply to Gunns & Theodorebear

(9) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 20:03:53 (89)

(10) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 28 Aug 2005, 20:20:53 (89)

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 29 Aug 2005, 05:41:53 (89) reply to nickinwestwales

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

[Anonymous]

Mornin' all, let's have a early "eye opener" for everyone, customer's choice please Tom. We may have something to celebrate after all. Don't want to "count chickens before they hatch," but Katrina may spare "the Big Easy" the worst of the high winds and water. One thing for sure, look for the highest fuel prices in our history. The off shore (La.) rigs will shut down indefinatly.[xx(] Nick, thanks for your concern. We are in good shape, probably only 8 ft. swells. The sufers will love it.[8D] Rob, keep your eye out for great deals on Pearly Thomas Cars: "too good to be true."

Started constructing on the Commissary/Freight building (HO) and will be adding covered passenger platform sheds at Union Station as well. The long double track, curved viaduct will get a veneeer of natural stone over the poster board formers a.s.a.p. All in all, I'm doing what I can to get a "jump start" for when our fall weather begins (October). By that time, I hope to get some decent pix of the progress. Outside G gauge? Well, the 14 ft. passing siding is complete but I haven't changed out all the plastic wheel sets for steel yet. That's a must to keep residue on the rails at a minimum.

Okay, there surely have been some great Postings, pix, and URL's of late.[tup] Hopefully, this trend will continue along with the usual dose of fun and games.[:D] Boris, how many times have you been told not to wax the seats in the restrooms?[:(!] Someone is bound to come sliding out the doors and we'll have a law suit on our hands.[banghead] Happy rails everyone.

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Ted

A Bloody Mary or perhaps a Mentor Village Sunshine might perk ya up this fine day! [swg]

From what I've been following regarding Katrina - it ain't good. When one is referring to 140-160 mph winds with storm surges that could easily top those 13 ft levees - man oh man, grim is the word.

Sure would love to see what you are working on - sounds terrific. Are you using kits or is everything from scratch with your project [?] Those S-gauge structure photo's that I posted on my site several pages ago were all from laser kits (made by an outfit right here in the St. Louis area - American Precision Model Builders). They put out some fine stuff - including the signature building for "Our" Place, which is in HO on the Can-Am layout.

As a reminder - "Our" Place is a tavern that is a replica of a real structure still in use as a bar 'n grill here in the St. Louis area. It is currently called the Trainwreck Saloon and is about 12 miles from where I live. It had several names over the years, but originally was called the Nine Mile House which referred to being nine miles from the city-county line. Interesting and fun place to visit. Had I pushed for our Rendezvous to be in my area - we surely would be setting up a session or two over there! [swg] Who knows - if things don't work out OR if some of you want to venture a trip out my way - we can do that very thing. Also have the Museum of Transport - MetroLink - Amtrak and very active freight ops.

[yeah] We've had some fine Posts as of late. Hope it continues. I'd like to see a bit more acitvity from those who have been staying away. Time for me to rethink just who is a Regular and who isn't. As I've indicated several times - a small, interactive group is far better and more fun than simply racking up numbers ........

Oh - this is for you, Manager, Ted: Under no circumstances is Boris to work in the rest rooms. He's strictly kitchen help and odd-job guy 'round here. I suspect he very well may have waxed those seats, therein lies the rationale to keep him outta there! [swg]

Catch ya later! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Trainnut484]

Evening Tom and everyone. Just thought I'd run in for a...wha? [:0] Where did the cobwebs come from? Sheesh doesn't look like anyone's been in here all day except for Boris and Leon and who knows what they've been doing all day. I'll have my usual.

I second the motion to keep Boris from working in the restrooms.

My best wishes go out to the people in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi. The catastrophe hurricane Katrina left behind is unbelievable.

Thanks for the beer. Gotta go

Russell

[siberianmo]

<yawn> Hi there, Russell

Help yourself to the brew .... don't mind me if I don't get up, been that kinda day and nite 'round here. Haven't a clue as to why - can't handle too many more like this!

Seen more than one of our Regulars logged in and even Posting elsewhere. No problems with any of that - but I don't quite get it when they can't take the time to make a stop here .... [%-)][%-)][%-)]

Catch ya in tomorrow - I hope. [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)][zzz]

[siberianmo]

TUESDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning Gang!

Let’s kick off this day with one of our special light breakfasts, some hot Joe and a pastry or two from {i]The Mentor Village Bakery[/i] case …….. [yeah]

News of the Day:

Monday, during daylight, was the slowest we’ve ever experienced since opening on April 12th. Feast or famine strikes again!

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 29 Aug 2005, 05:47:06 (89) Monday’s News & Summary

(2) Theodorebear Ted 29 Aug 2005: 29 Aug 2005, 07:05:18(89)

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 29 Aug 2005, 08:04:58 (89) reply to Theodorebear

(4) Trainnut484 Russell Posted: 29 Aug 2005, 20:59:41 (89)

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 29 Aug 2005, 21:19:39 (89) reply to Trainnut484

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

[Anonymous]

"G'mornin Mr. and Mrs. America and all the ships at sea." (Walter Winchell, radio commentator 1940's). Tom, know what you mean 'bout "feast or famine." Did you ever get the feeling you've been talking to yourself.?[:-^] Oh well, I'll grab a couple of Bavarians, a cuppa Joe and pretend yesterday never happened.[^] As bad as Katrina was, things could have been far worse. Had the people of N.O., La. not evacuated when they did...we don't even want to think about it![:(] I'll drop some things off at the Salvation Army today and a few scheckles for the Red Cross. Had the apartment building not failed (Biloxi), casualties would have been 25 not 55. Remarkable for the enormity of the storm. Let's hope the folks in Appalachia fare better.

Yes Tom, the HO structures on my layout include: some DPM kit bashing, Cornerstone kits, scratch builts, "fronts," and "flats." The latter being detailed poster board cut outs glued to a solid back drop of Masonite (painted a winter gray). Some favorite bldgs. in K.C., Mo. from "scratch" are: Union Station [main bldg. no els], U.S. Post Office, the Letterman Cadillac agency, a Swope Park memorial, the Muelbach Hotel, appartments and small shops around the Plaza area. Secenary spots include: "Cliff Drive," a Hobo camp and New England style "meeting house" w/parking. A photo mural back drop on one end is a cityscape (unkown prototype). In the yards there is a "Yard Master's" tower, loading docks, commissarry/freight bldg. and freight offices. I'll add a coaling and water tower soon. Pix will be coming this Fall or a.s.a.p.

Okay, I must make this a wrap for now. Maybe some inquiries I made earlier will find responses today? If not, oh well; I'll know to keep my silly questions to myself in future. Got'sta "hit it," so long for now. Boris, you may retire your cleaning implements to the broom closet and, like combustibles, never touch another can of floor wax again![alien]

[siberianmo]

Top o' the mornin' to ya, Ted

Hey - I'm listening! It isn't as if you aren't get any responses - so that'll be enough of this talk about keeping your questions to yourself! Geesh .... [swg]

Remember way back when during the bashing you took from some guys because you dared to pen an opinion regarding another thread on yet another forum [?] We communicated back then about the way things are on the Forums and many threads. The idea behind "Our" Place was and remains to avoid the hit 'n run Posts and to maintain a semblance of continuity through making our conversations as inclusive as possible. It hasn't always been successful, as there just will be those who either refuse to or cannot bring themselves to get it.

It's been quite a ride 'round here and there's no telling how much longer we've got. I'd like to think that everyone who has made this idea a part of their cyber routine would feel a bit stronger about continuing on than we've witnessed as of late. Just think of the Birthday Bashes we've thrown and the participation given freely to make someone else's day a bit better. Where ARE several of these guys lately [?] Enough ........ [tdn]

To the model railroad discussion: My pike was begun to provide me with some up close and personal reminders of rail travels taken in Canada. A buddy of mine was going to be my landscaper. That latter didn't pan out - I wound up doing it and having fun all the while. My bride helped with the lakes and waterfall, and we both can take a bit of satisfaction in looking at our scenes all the while thinking, "We did this."

I got into the structure assembly simply because there was no alternative. I have arthritic hands - awful in the thumbs and index fingers, so I had some serious reservations about doing anything that intricate. You know what [?] The construction of those kits (Walthers - Bachmann Spectrum - American Precision Model Builders and others) really was like therapy. Just took it a bit slow and somehow, it wasn't as awful as I thought. Assemblilng a few bizillion trees, however, was a royal pain in the Patoot! [swg] As an aside, I'm looking at that chore once again with the S-gauge ....... ugh.

Anyway, kit bashing is a challenge and if you take a look at my Union Station passenger platforms (27 of 'em), you'll see evidence of this effort. Bottom line - it's a nice way to pass the time and I get a great deal of enjoyment out of it. Guess that's why it's referred to as a hobby, eh [?]

Regarding Katrina - we got a bit of rain from her during our evening walk with Juneau ... huge drops, but that was it. Veered off to the northeast. As with most of the natural disasters I've known of, it always could have been worse. There was plenty of warning and it appears that the precautions taken were all that could have been. Don't know what else could have been done to protect the folks who couldn't be evacuated. Grim situation in the deep South.

Take care and perhaps we'll talk again later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good afternoon finally Two days of midnights and a modem that [censored][banghead] flunked out. I had a spare but no idea how tofix it myself so a 45 min long distance phone call to Colorado springs and my computer tech B-I-L and I'm back. Tom a round of the houses's best for you and yours and everyome else.First off I'm glad to hear our membership in the southern tier there is safe and obvious condolances and red cross donations to the Big easy which is of coarse far from that at the moment. caught the news story of the mayor mentioning the 20 foot depth of the flood waters in parts, one wonders what's left. Mercifully most of the population is safe! Tpm I beleave your odd three toed prints are in fact [alien] Boris's.( his toes are webbed ) He and leon tend to run amok in the backyard after you go home for the night. ( More reason's to limit their Sunday excursions, it's given them some strange ideas as to what a nature hike means.[:O] Nick That conferderation train I thought was much more awfull than the original "Go" paintjob.BTW Thank's for posting the photo url for the Confederation train too Tom.On an interesting historical footnote Our museum's original GM Robert John's worked in equipment procurment for GO transit. It was Him that got the ball rolling on the now ubiquitous Bi Level Hawker Siddely ( now Bombardier ) transit coaches. Though he did not design them persee, his recomendations and work with the designers came up with the original prototypes. Now 30 years further on these cars are everywhere. Also Bob did the design work on the now familiar Green and White of Go Transit. The museum members Heather's Dad in particular praise this man . He was a strong beleaver in training. When he was alive and GM at the museum he made sure that the crews not only knew how to run the cars but he drilled them on and showed them the main mechanical and electrical features of each car in hopes that should an emergency arrise everyone could do the quick fix. Dave congrats on the silver throttle It's well desierved. I enjoyed yours and Al's and Dougs back and forth on the Mckean cars. A similar critter was being looked at by streetcar builder Preston car and Coach as a possible production vehicle. Unfortunatly a motor / electrical fire in the imported prototype burnt 90 % of PC&C's plant down in 1917. taking 30 fifnished and unfinished streetcars with it and three or four open cars of NS&T ownership which were in for rebuilding. The lawsuits and insurance issues effectivley finised PC&C. Brill bought the plant in 1919 so they could build cars for Canadian street railways ( import laws ment that if it was built in Canada no tarrifs etc ) Brill built the first 50 Peter whitt's for TTC and some early trolley busses and then went belly up in 1922. You can see bits of the factory still in Preston ( Cambridge Ontario ) It's weed grown and has had a couple more "fires" CP was usuing it as a maintenace shop for their electric lines Grand River Railway and Lake Erie and Northern. Funny how theses "fires" happened in 1959/60 when the electric lines were being considered for diesilization. Which happened in '62. Tom another round for the house for my absenteeism and ranting.[tup] Perhaps another award the " Bronze Patoot for the best on topic rants. whatdaya think. Bye for now. Rob

[trolleyboy]

Hi back again already onother CR i think Tom. Gunn checked out your latest triumphs on the museum thread good job [tup] Ted On a happier note hopefully the N'orlins transit will be able to rebuild. The Pertly's are tough old birds once dried out and repainted they should be back up and running.Decent public transit would be a nessecaty for them in the comming months I should think. Bye again Rob

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.
First may I add my thoughts to the poor people who have been in the path of Katrina it shows how fragile us humans are against nature.
Sorry I have not called in but I have been away for a couple of days. So I had better have a pint and a sandwich please.
What a good idea the SILVER THROTTLE AWARD is and a very worthy winner in DAVE that was a wonderful post and oh so true.
[yeah][tup] Thanks to all who told me about U.S. locomotive testing I am learning all the time but I am still a bit confused about GRADES.
Tom I;ll have one for the road and be off hope tocall in again soon[tup]

[trolleyboy]

pwolfe Grades as in school or as in hills? LOL[swg] seriously what was or is confusing you. In general the railways tried to avoid steep ones ( over 3%. Three feet up for every mile distance if I'm figurirng correctly ) In places mountains etc the railroads would beg borrow steal and blast to avoid straight up type grades. You see alot of mountain lines that are anything but arrow straight they tend to meander to lessen the grades. themn of coarse the twists in turns can pose hazzards of there own.Hope I haven't muddied the waters for you further. I'm sure tom n the boys will jump in as well. Rob

[siberianmo]

G'day Rob

Funny how a single Post from a familiar cyber name can restore hope that "Our" Place will thrive for at least one more day. [tup]

These wonders of 'puter technology can wrap us up in knots and they do. Glad you're back. My wireless router is going back to the manufacturer once the replacement arrives. Never ends .... fortunately the warranty still covers a replacement - although it should - I purchased the blasted thing in April. Anyway, there just doesn't seem to be an end to the frustrations with cyber comms ........ Gotta keep thinking positive - this is a fantastic way of communicating - this is a fantastic way of communicating .... this is ..... [swg]

Don't you chime in with anymore suggestions for ME to carry out and oversee! Thank you very much - I've got enough on my plate 'round here just to keep all of you interested and active with the Stools - Birthday Watch List and Bashes - Posts from the Past - Cast of Characters from "Our" Place - The Menu from "Our" Place - Rat's Patoot Room - Silver Throttle Award, etc. That's all I can handle - arggggggggghhhh!

I'm not too sure those prints are from Boris - remove his boondockers, if you dare, and you just might find cloven soles 'n heels! [:O] Anyway, he was out back with me when we discovered the freshly made prints ........ perhaps a case for Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary and his trusty advisor and friend, Mr. Doyle, Private Investigator. (There's another to add to the aforementioned list ...... )

Thanx for the 'round - Boris dust off the bell and give 'er a ring!

Don't forget us - we seem to need all the support we can get to keep us up on the Forum. [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Pete

Nice to have you stop by as well - I see Rob is back and also *** hiding in the shadows.

Yesterday surely was strange and today began in a similar fashion. Sure gets quiet 'round here in a hurry without the chatter and banter at the bar. [yeah]

Rob has given good explanation to RR grades - can't really amplify what he's said. Somewhere in my mind's eye the 2 percent standard comes to mind. Anyone want to elaborate on that [?]

Regarding Katrina - kinda like railroad crossing accidents, train 1 car 0. Nature also has a way of coming out on top, no matter how hard we try to alter her course - she wins, we lose. Rough times continue in the Gulf states.

Enjoy the brew and the finest sandwiches this side of the Can-Am mountain range! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Tokm I hope that Boris isn't just playing a prank on you. Check the DNA eveidencs on those prints. I've noticed on the slower nights Boris and Leon tend to watch CSI. As too adding to your woes I though you were retired, that should mean that you have lots of time on yer paws[swg] Perhaps we need to bring in a personal secritary for you, one who is also a registerd massage therapist. We have lots of empty rooms upstairs.[oops] New rule violation giving the owner ideas as to the tech woes I'm heading to the rats patoot room with the broken modem to vent my ah creative need to destroy something inanimate. i'm all for re-enstating the poney express or the wireless. Oh ted and anyone who wants to see them, I've gotten three of your layout pics up on my rail graffica account page six. More to come but the shrinking the file size to fit is a bit time consumming. Bye again hey when did me get the parrot in here ? Rob

[siberianmo]

Hi Rob

DNA - are you kidding [?] Go back and refresh yourself regarding Boris' makeup - I doubt that there's a double helix in him! [swg]

Glad to know that The Rat's Patoot Room will be getting a work out. Dust off the punching bags, will ya [?]

I have a personal secretary - of sorts - Cindy from the all female university up the road, 'round the bend. She's not paid staff here - likes to volunteer her - ahem - services. Although, once Nick shows up, she's gone like a flash into the kitchen. Don't need to think about that too much ......... hmmmmm.

Watch that return to yesterday's technology - next thing you know you'll be trying to fly a kite with a metal tether in a thunder 'n lightning storm! [:O]

Sorry if the grumpiness shows - I'll admit to the frustration'round here. Can't handle ignorance and rudeness. Really bothers me, especially when I know it can be so easily avoided. [yeah] Perhaps a massage will do me good. Hey Cindy, let's talk![}:)][:-,]

Thanx Rob for perking up this place of ours ....... [tup][tup][tup]

Catch ya later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Tom Remember I live on old technology. Putting the pole on the wire at the museum isn't too far removed from good old Ben's experiments. We just control it better. I think though that the massage parlour needs to be moved adjacent too or inside off the rat's Patoot room It's where the action is din't you know! as too boris's DNA gone wrong you don't think that he has "kin" in the woods behind the bar do you ? Oh well very [#offtopic] today multiple round s for us on my tab.[oops] Some of the modem still lives back in for round two ( deux ) Rob

[siberianmo]

Yo Rob

How could I have forgotten the trolley pole and wires![?] [yeah] A shocking experience, from time to time. [swg]

Somehow the image of one beating the Dickens out of the weight or punching bag while someone is enjoying a massage doesn't quite gell. [swg] Also, there's a license problem here in Mentor Village regarding those sorts of things (massage parlours). Doubt that the Village Elders would approve of such a thing. It was difficult enough to get them to grant me a liquor, beer 'n wine license. Now, there is always that Park Car with the drawing room suite sitting on the siding ........ hmmmmmm. [yeah]

The critters of the forests seem to be very aware of the presence of Boris - things become very still - almost as if an impending storm front is about to hit when the Boys arrive. Again, single helix creatures are nothing to fool with ....... [alien]

Boris clang the clapper once again - Rob's buying! [yeah]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[CFournier]

HI, everyone. I'm back at work and to a better internet connection!
A round of whatever you'll have guys, on me...
Here is what I have regarding the A4 that we have in the Delson museum (Montreal) and wich PWOLF asked about a few weeks ago.

BR 60010 4-6-2 Doncaster 1937
British Rail's 60010, "The Dominion of Canada", represents British railways and serves as an interesting contrast to CN 5702. The "A-4" class of locomotives holds the world speed record for steam at 126 1/2 miles per hour. The Dominion of Canada was in the speed trials. It is a streamlined locomotive, equipped with a speedometer and a corridor tender with a water scoop. These features permitted it to cover the 393 miles from London to Edinburgh without service stops, whereas most Canadian locomotives in the same service would stop every 125-150 miles for water.

[^]Chris

[Anonymous]

By Gadfrey, I guess N. Korea didn't "Nuke" the Internet after all.[;)] Good to hear from ya Rob. Tom, what'dya say to a C.R. for me, a Keiths for Rob and J.D. Black Label for yourself? Yes Rob, there are any number of coincidences regarding the dieselization of some electric roads. Even more striking is the total elimination of electrified street rail in major U.S. cities from 1945-1960.[:O] I realize the days of neighborhood routes were numbered even in the late 1930's. However, there were still inter city high speed runs and feeder lines that were solvent and needed on a daily basis. The idea that no conspiracy was involved in the almost "over night" dismemberment of a viable, fast, clean and profitable transportation system is a "no sale" for this observer.[2c] From what I've seen of the resurrection of "light rail," the same mentality of the conspirators that "killed" electrified interurban (radial) service are holding the reigns for today's renaissance, i.e. lines that go nowhere, diesel where ever possible, inefficient use of ROW, et al. We will see if the fuel demands put on the need for public mass transportation will moderate the "self destruct" agenda of city bureaucrats "on the take." There are exceptions such as Dallas, L.A., and San Diego. Most eastern cities, however, fall right in the X hairs![V]

As everyone's worst fears have now become a reality in N.O., La.; we may witness the worst metropolitan catastrophy since 9/11/01. Breaches in the levees (river and lake) and failure of pumping facilities are allowing the city to gradually fill like a tureen for soup. It now appears that City's recovery will be many months away, that is, if something far worse [fire, epidemics, rioting] doesn't render it a "no man's land." Other areas of devastation (Ga., Ms, Al.)are accessible over land, thus making assistance slow but possible. New Orelans is now accessible only by water craft. It has ceased to exist as a functioning city.

How does one follow that dire prognosis with something witty? Let's just count our good fortune and hope for the best on behalf of our neighbors under siege. I'll close for now with best regards for all.

[Anonymous]

Good afternoon Y'all

Boris, how about a round of drinks for everybody on me. Make mine a double double gin over ice. It has been one of those days when everything turns to a soft sea of fecal matter. Just got the word that I have to spend a week in Port Harcourt which is the end of the world. Part Harcourt is in Nigeria. What it does is make Lagos look like a garden spot by comparison. And Lagos is really where the sewer meets the sea. I have to go to the health office tomorrow to get a yellow fever shot. Fortunately the shots I received before I went to Libya in July will cover everything else I need. There is a railroad in Nigeria, however, I think I will pass on trying to ride on it. At my age I cannot outrun a speeding bullet any longer. Speaking of age there are only 7 monts and one day or 213 days or 5,112 hours, or 306,720 minutes or 18,403,200 seconds until I retire. Some days it seems that it cannot come too soon and this is one of them.

On to more pleasant thoughts (trains). I enjoyed Gunnis Kevin's story on the Georgetown Loop line and his great links. When I get some time I am going to read them ALL in detail. The original bridge was taken down in the 30's and the scrap steel from the bridge and rails were sold to Japan. One only can wonder if the Japanese gave some of it back to us at Pearl Harbor. We rode on the loop several years ago and really enjoyed the ride. One of the stories I heard while on the ride was that the bridge and track were paid for and installed by the Navy Seabees. They were having a summer camp and needed a practice project shuch as this for training. So, the story goes, the Seabees rebuilt the entire line.

Also enjoyed the posts aout the doodlebugs from years ago. On the web page for the McCloud River RR there are pictures of ther old doodlebug used to haul logging crews. Got the link from a post on the "TRAINS" forum. Well worth a lookie as they cover all of their equipment. Enjoyed Theodorebear's comments about how Walter Winchell opened his news casts. I remember them well from years ago. Also remember the Conalrad bands at 640 and 1240 that we were supposed to tune to in emergencies. At that time all the radios had little triangles at these frequencies so you could fing the Conalrad stations if needed. Fortunately we never needed to crawl in our bomb shelters and tune in Conalrad.

Time to go catch my train to the car pool. Better gulp down my dring and Boris could I have a roadie?

Cheers,
***

[siberianmo]

Hey Chris

Awwwwwwwwright! [#welcome] Back to the world of the productive! Glad you have fully recovered and are amongst your peers, functioning in your chosen profession of law. [yeah][tup][tup]

Appreciate your taking the time to stop by - we've been in a funk for a bit and need all the help we can muster up to rekindle the flame that is "Our" Place. Seriously - it's those of you who are truly the Regulars 'round here who will determine whether we thrive or wither on the vine ..........

Isn't it truly amazing to think of 126.5 mph occurring back then when in today's North American vernacular we call it high speed rail! [wow] Always amazes me to think that there are so many people who think we have it wired today and those in the past simply were archaic. Not so - not so, at all. Thanx for bringing us back to reality ........ [tup]

Hope to see more of you, now that you are back into cyber comms ........ and thanx for the round! [swg] I'll even partake in a Keith's Ale - thank you very much! [swg]

See ya again - soon I hope! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Hello Ted

Thanx for the 2nd Post of the day! [tup] That's what it is going to take in order to propel us forward as we find ourselves on page 90 of this thread. Ninety! Can you imagine thinking that we'd make it this far way back - when[?] Never in my wildest dreams ... but here we are. [yeah]

Americans all - let's do our part to ensure that our countrymen get the best from us all in order to rebuild and move on with their lives.

Is it just me, or has the international community ignored our disaster in the Gulf States [?] Recall the U.S. responses to the numerous disasters 'round the world in just the past 2 years[?] Is there anyone, other than me who is rather underwhelmed with the outpouring of support in our hour of need[?] [yeah] I know I'm [#offtopic] and I'll surely spring for the drinks - but as an American - isn't it just so typical of the so-called world community when it comes to consideration for and of the U.S.. [?] For whatever it's worth - we'll do fine without those nations who have enjoyed bashing us these past several years. I only hope that my fellow citizens will not forget this latest slap in the face ......... Okay, Boris Ring the ding dong - drinks on me!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Hello ***

Sorry ......... but, tweeeeeeeeeeet, tweeeeeeeeeeeet, Rule violations - Rule violations! Failure to greet the barkeep (housekeep) - Rule #1 and failure to order a drink - Rule #2. Boris ring the bell - drinks on Permanent Stool Member, ***

Sorry to have to dump on you like that - but - we have a bit of decorum 'round here and as an exhalted member of our inner circle ... well - you figure it out! [swg]

While I'm at it - Boris doesn't tend bar - man - you're in trouble today, eh [?] He's kitchen help. Geesh!

Yes, we've had some very interesting Posts - especiallly during the latter part of last week. Hope you have had the time to review 'em .......... Especially West Coast S Dave's rather poingant offering .......... Check the Summaries if you need further reference ..........

We are happy to see ya again - thought you were on another work-related trip .........

Catch ya later.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and the gang...Round of JW black to make for my absence.

What have we been up to:

Passengerfan AL appreciate the additional insight into McKeen usage. You deserve a round for your research efforts. What will it be?

Barndad appreciate the Mckeen photo and update.. Now I know where two of the trailers are perserved. The CSRM has one that SP converted to a caboose and retired in 1969. Last I heard the intent was restore back into a McKeen trailer, depending on funding of course.
Barndad, did I have a flashback or does the Nevada group or someone have a Mckeen front power truck assembly? I seem to recall reading that one was located, but, can't remember the source now. Ditto, for the de-trucked unmodified trailer located in Utah being used as a chicken coop.

Nick, You cause me to think, hmm, Words set to the style of Muddy Waters or Howling Wolf..I see Grammy in our future. Sure beats the 9-5 routine and the groupies would be fantastic for my ego [:D]

Ted...Balderdash? Pardon my ignorance, but Balderdash[X-)] Is that not the new Olympic relay event for those with thinning hair? I fail to see how it pertains to classic trains. (All in good humor of course).

And last but not least, our esteemed host Tom, keep up the excellent job, I shall return when I have something pertient to report..


Boris, no kisses, just ring the bell and take care of the customers!

Dave [tup]