"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

G'day West Coast S Dave

Good to see you again! Even a day's absence seems like a long time .........

Boris The bell, please! JD for the men at the bar! [yeah]

Nice of you to acknowledge the Posts from the guys - seems like forever since we've seen 'em all ........ A couple of our Regulars are on the verge of becoming members of The Legion of the Lost.

Appreciate the endorsement for the efforts of management 'round here ..... Thanx! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Tom...Glad to be back....How come my wife doesn't ilicite the same feeling after a absence apart?

Tom..i'm composing some new material for the group to critique and the third chapter of the Pacific Electric Chronicles.

In the meantime, I present this sonet, credited to a published author who's name I cannot recall.

"When she passed, we stood amazed
We admired her, so we stood and gazed
Her loss we pine, we loved her so
To hear her lonesome whistle blow
Our memory of her is clear and plain
Please, bring us back our little train".

From the publication Mixed Train daily.

A special kudo for reaching the big 90, oops! Make that 91, the best is yet to come.

Dave [tup]

[passengerfan]

Good evening Tom. Guess it is time for a CR and a round for the house.

Tom knowing you like RDC's look up the wreck at Redondo Junction of the only two RDC's owned by the Santa Fe. It occurred on their second trip of the day to San Diego. After the accident the worst involving RDC's as far as number killed and injured the Santa fe banished the cars from California. One was rebuilt from its original RDC 1 configuration to and RDC2 by Topeka shops. The cars operated in Kansas for awhile before being assigned to the EL PASOAN schedule between Albuquerque and El Paso round trip daily. The only other RDC 1 rebuilt to a RDC 2 I am aware of was SP's one and only one while leased to Northwestern Pacific it encountered a loaded logging truck. Sacramento shops rebuilt the SP RDC and created a 2 with a blind end as the Cab was not reinstalled at the end that ran into the truck.
Nice to see that the Rams have a pretty good football team this year watched last nights game against Detroit and they looked pretty good.
Lived in the Big Easy for a year right in the French Quarter sure feel sorry for the people. Tried to reach a couple of friends I still have their was unsuccessful with one the phone was dead. Did reach the other on his cell phone he evacuated to Orlando with the family and says he isn't going back for two weeks at least. Told him about the Lake Pontchartrain causeway being out so his return journey may be longer than he wants. Said he had just renewed his flood Insurance and had the plavce reappraised not very long ago. Says he isn't too worried.
Most of his neighbors and friends evacuated and he was in touch with most via cell phone. I tried to reach another friend but not having his cell number his land line is dead.
I know I know Boris ring the bell I'm buying another round.

[siberianmo]

Hi Ya Dave

Back again! Well, have one on me this time ...... [yeah]

Can't and won't comment regarding wives and what they do and don't! Been there, done that and ain't gonna do it again! [swg]

A rather interesting bit of prose of the customers at the bar this evneing. Thanx! All train lovers should be able to relate to the verse ....... mine would be more than a little train. How about a 15 car string of passenger cars behind a Pennsy GG-1 [?] Or, that 5 car RDC consist of BC Rail en route mid-Province, British Columbia [?] Anyone else want to join in [?]

Page 91 on the way to 100. A special treat is being put together for our 100th page. Let's start a contest of sorts.

WHAT DATE WILL WE REACH PAGE 100 at "Our Place"[?]

Catch ya later .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

I see a few have drifted in since I started reading[4:-)]TOM ,a round of drinks for these fine gents whilst I catch up and gather my thoughts,server down for 48 hrs so a little behind,back soon [C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Hello passengerfan Al

Nice to see you again - surely was wonderin' about ya - noticed your cyber name every now 'n then, but no Post. Appreciate the round - Boris ring 'er up! [yeah]

What's to add about N'rlns and the unfolding tragedy for Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama other than to say, let's hope relief is prompt, adequate and long term - for those poor folks surely need all the help we can provide.

Appreciate the info regarding those SF RDC's. I've seen pictures within one of my hardcover books and have read the accounts of the tragedy. Didn't know that SF had actually banished the cars ........

Football in August just doesn't seem right to me. While pre-season games are considered meaningless to the purist, tell that to the guys trying to win a roster spot. Somehow, even though the RAMS are in St. Louis, it's hard for me to think of 'em as anything other than the LA RAMS. When I was assigned to SoCal back in the 80's, they played down in Anaheim, while the Raiders were in LA. All for the mighty dollar, wouldn't you agree [?]

Catch ya later .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Nick

Man oh man, you've had your share - and then some - of server problems. Hope you get some sort of a refund on whatever the costs are for the service!

Thanx for the round - Boris] Ring it for your Bossman! [swg]

Yesterday was the absolute worst we've had 'round here - today started out pretty much the same, then Rob came along - shook the trees, and the rest of 'em woke up! [tup]

Catch ya later or in the 'morrow .........

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

O.K. boys,I think I`m Just about up to speed ( as they say in the movies)-right first things first,[4:-)]TOM,a drink for all present in order to raise a toast to the U.S.C.G & all those other good people who have worked through the last few nights to bring people out of danger,we salute you,...............................................Right,before I get into answering post ,I`ve just found a site that some of you might find interesting-photos from the Hubble telescope @ skyimagelab.com -watch with drink in hand and room lights off !! West Coast Dave-nice one on the doodlebugs,over here,a doodlebug was a self-propelled,high-explosive, bloody nuisance during the middle part of the 1940`s-sounds like you guys had a fairly similar experience. Sounds like we listen to the same kind of blues-when I have a spare moment I`ll put down a backing track( I can do a fairly acceptable Muddy guitar line and a *** fine Willy Dixon bass part underneath it,my drummer loves to play chicago blues and my wife can sing anything from Patsy Cline to Janis Joplin,with all stops between-will try to send you the results.........TOM-I am also blessed with arthritis,natures way of saying"slow down & enjoy"-first diagnosed at age 21 as an offshoot of a completely different condition-2 ways to go here,curl up and howl,or,chin up,swallow enough pills to sedate a horse & get back out there and do the howling later,when no-one else is around---treat it as an incentive,not a handicap-although when it takes you forty minutes to get out of bed in the morning it can be difficult to present a smiley happy face to the world........ROB-Yer man Bob did a fine job on those double-deck cars,as you noted,these cars originated with Hawker-Siddely,the company that gave us both the Hurricane & the Harrier,-the closest thing we will see to Thunderbird 1 in our lifetimes ...........WOLFMAN-Grades-I suspect that like me you still think in terms of 1:30,1:100 etc-it will be no help but some possible comfort,but I cant figure out the conversion either,sorry !.........***-given recent events it`s possible that your skills could be of more use in the domestic arena,p.s.-nice to here from you,right,a couple of general observations -The Ba`alderdash`ii tribe-a relic of pre-history here,generally regarded by scholars as being the catalyst for the first gatherings of civilisation in the Tigris-Euphrates Delta, a tribe so contentious & arguementative that all the neighbouring tribes gave up their smaller vendetta`s and got together to give them a right pasting. This done,they realised the sense of strength in numbers and went on to conquer the known world-about 50 miles in any direction. and so , finally to train stuff------Chris mentioned the steam speed record earlier in connection with the Gresley A4`s-perhaps I could expand on that-record speed attained descending stoke bank southbound towards Peterborough,ostensibly as part of ongoing brake tests in conjunction with Westinghouse using a full "Coronation" 8-car set plus dynamometer car-about 350 Tons on the bar-on this particular sunday,Sir Nigel Gresley himself was on the foot plate encouraging the crew to "go for it",the road was cleared ahead of them.....No 4468 "Mallard" was in good order with a well built up fire-after achieving recorded max of 126.7 M.P.H. some very fierce application of the brakes was required to negotiate the s-bend at Peterborough stn-a 15 M.P.H limit which the "Mallard" flew through at 60 M.P.H with,according to the driver,"Only one side on the rails at any one time"-according to popular legend,he never drove another engine and finished his days as a lay preacher,as to the Mallard,she had to be taken off the train after the middle cylinder main bearing collapsed,but job done by then-We Brits have the speed record,you guys can have the rest....!!!!...........moonlight mile for me,speak soon,nick[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Good early morning, Nick

A fine Post - one of your very best efforts! [tup][tup][tup]

Don't quite know how you are able to do it, given the hour on your side of the Pond, but keep up the good work! [yeah]

The situation in N'rlns is so devastating that one has to wonder whether that city is lost and not able to be rebuilt. The efforts of the USCG are being coordinated here in St. Louis as the District Office in New Orleans relocated about 50 of its command staff to a site downtown. The situation is really grim down there .........

Can't say that I'm much on Blues when it comes to music - never quite got into it. My tastes have quite a range however - and it's not at all uncommon for me to listen to a couple of hours of Swing (Big Band) music followed by Phil Collins (with or without Genesis) then onto Hank Williams, Jr., Alabama, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. It that's not enough, there's our collection of Broadway musicals and some of the best stuff in the form of Gilbert & Sullivan - love the Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado. [yeah] Really dig it all .......

The arthritis has been with me for about 12 years and can really mess with the mind. You are absolutely correct regarding the choices we have in order to deal with it. I choose to move along and really haven't been able to find anything in pill form that helps. The stuff I had been taken was removed from the market ........ Ain't that just the way it go [?] Beginning to see some ill effects to the knees - but as long as we've got our pal, Juneau the two one-mile walks per day help out in that respect.

One hundred twenty six point seven MPH [wow] now that's movin' on! Once again, the speeds attained by what we look upon as quaint or the old days can't be matched at all over here, even with our feeble attempts at hi-speed rail. Pity.

Hope the weekend is good for you and yours ........

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

WEDNESDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning!

Hope this day finds all of you doing well and ready to meet the challenges of the day. Start off with us by enjoying the offerings from The Mentor Village Bakery along with our freshly ground and brewed coffee and of course a llight breakfast selection from the morning menu.

News of the Day:

(1) Consider helping those who are suffering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina.

(2) Yesterday was one hulluva turnaround from the day before in terms of activity ‘round here. It appeared we were heading into another day of doldrums until Rob bailed us out and from that point on – busy, busy, busy. Just the way we like it. [yeah]
Thanx to all who helped make the day a success for ”Our” Place [tup][tup][tup]

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 00:27:46 (89) Tuesday’s News & Summary

(2) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 06:20:36 (90)

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 07:19:24 (90) response to Theodorebear

(4) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 13:33:22 (90)

(5) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 13:38:18 (90)

(7) pwolfe Pete Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 13:39:49 (90)

(8) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 13:48:13 (90)

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 13:51:29 (90) reply to trolleyboy

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 13:59:42 (90) reply to pwolfe

(11) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 14:03:55 (90)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 14:14:48 (90) reply to trolleyboy

(13) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 14:24:26 (90)

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 14:38:39 (90) reply to trolleyboy

(15) CFournier Chris Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 15:43:32 (90)

(16) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 15:44:44 (90)

(17) wrwatkins *** Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 16:32:46 (90)

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 16:42:05 (90) reply to CFournier

(19)siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 16:55:52 (90) reply to Theodorebear

(20) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 17:10:20 (90) reply to wrwatkins

(21) West Coast S Dave Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 17:17:54 (90)

(22) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 17:24:54 (90) reply to West Coast S

(23) West Coast S Dave Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 17:46:59 (91)

(24) passengerfan Al Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 18:43:03 (91)

(25) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 18:44:33 (91) reply to West Coast S

(26) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 18:54:30 (91)

(27) siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 19:00:56 (91) reply to passengerfan

(28)siberianmo Tom Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 19:41:36 (91) reply to nickinwestwales

(29) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 30 Aug 2005, 21:38:02 (91)

(30) siberianmo Tom Posted: 31 Aug 2005, 00:28:04 (91) reply to: nickinwestwales

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

[Anonymous]

A very arly good morning to Y'all.

Boris, being 5:10 AM I had better stick to black strong coffee for now. Even as the songs goes "It is five o'clock somewhere" is true but somehow i cannot think of a good one this early.

The pictures from N O get worse by the day. Kudos to the USCG for a super job of rescuing the people from roofs. That has made the 6:00 news for the last couple days. NO biggest industry is tourism and it will be atleast one year if not two until it is bak if ever. I too have questions as to its recovery. One question: Why did not the railroads offer passenger trains to evacuate the people to safe points north? They could have run several trains from NO, Biloxi, Gulfport, etc and possibly saved many lives that were lost.

Big times in Dallas the week of September 26. APTA (American Passenger Transit Association) will be having their annual convention/Expo here. We expect 15-18,000 attendees along with over 400 exhibitors showing all kinds of train wares. DART was kind enough to comp me a ticket as a "retired" board member so I can go. Somehow spening the $450 registration fee is a little steep. Should be a fun convention and I will be able to visit many of my transit friends. I remember the first one I attendd in 1997. My wife did not want to go as she thought it would be a bunch of guys in bib overalls who went around tooting whistles all day. This was not the case. Everyone were in suits and it was wonderful. She has enjoyed subsequent conventions and we have made some great friends there. I always thought the petoleum engineers conventions before the change in the oil business ('80s) were great. By comparison the APTA convention makes the petroleum engineers convention look like a cheap meal at Mcdonalds.

Well it is time to go catch my van pool to work. Boris please give me a roadie of coffee for the ride in.

Cheers,
***

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom. Time for coffee and one of the diet pastries from the Mentor Bakery.
*** you asked about the railroads not evacuating people. First Amtrak does not have the equipment to spare and the military no longer has any passenger equipment held in reserve. Maybe the President should take note and give Amtrak five or six billion the airlines weren't much help. Used to be old Pullman cars were held in reserve at military bases such as Fort Polk Louisiana and others around the country for movement of the military in times of national emergency. In the present emergency releief workers and the Guard units would have not only had a place to stay but old rr cars could have been used to temporarily house the displaced. A temporary yard could act as a makeshift city until the city gets back on its feet. Flat cars with portable homes or mobile homes could be brought in until the housing is restored. Where are the tank cars with potable water that are so badly needed now. RRs could be bringing emergency food supplies as close as possible to the affected area and emergency personnel. Even FEMA was not prepared for a disaster of this magnitude and with I-10 in such bad shape it will take over a year to replace what about the rails in the area they may be the only hope. NO airport is under water and no flights will be using it for days.

[passengerfan]

P.S. Insomnia once again.

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Guys!

Been quit awhile, if ever, that we've opened up with *** at our doorstep. By the by - Boris doesn't work the bar .... he's strictly kitchen help 'round here along Odd Jobs Technician - OJT [swg] Surely you saw me behind the bar! Geesh!

Somewhere in the mass mailings of stuff coming to the house is a flyer or two regarding that transit gathering you mentioned. Once on the list - always on the list. Rather pricey, for sure - add on the round trip air fare, hotel and food - well, outta site for me. Sounds like it will be a good time ......

passengerfan Al Thought perhaps this is a bit early for you left Coast folks. I know all about insomnia - happens as you progress through these Golden years! [swg]

Used to be that we used to be a people big on contingencies and foresight. Doesn't appear that's the case any longer. Not just the ongoing tragedy in the Gulf states and in particular, New Orleans, but throughout the land. You hit it on the head regarding those passnger cars held in reserve. There's a sure connection between an infra structure that no longer exists along with the people who understand the utilization of such methods to move people and equipment during times like these.

Now, having spent a great deal of my adult life in an organization with a mission that kicks in during regional and national emergencies, I can't fault our government for not being able to come up with a fix or plan to meet each and every situation. That's just plain nonsense. However, when one projects levee breachings and mass flooding - given there was sufficient time - certain strategic measures surely needed to kick in.

Back in 1993 the Chesterfield Valley (about 1.5 miles from where I live) flooded up to 8 ft levels when a levee gave way to the flood waters of the Missouri River. That mid west flood was one hulluva mess for sure. Fortunately the fury factor of Hurricane Katrina was thankfully absent - but the devastation remained for years to come. Today, the valley has been nearly fully developed - just waiting for the next 500 year flood to occur. Planning [?] Geesh.

I detest shudda, wudda, cudda type thinkers and people - really do. Hindsight is always 20/20 as they say. However, when one has been there and can speak from a position of knowledge rather than anecdotal or less than plausible positions - well it's just so much hot air. We'll be listening to lots of that in the forthcoming weeks and months. Just something else to find a political bent to [?] Just watch 'n see.

Catch ya later .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

PLEASE READ THE SUMMARIES

[Anonymous]

Mornin' all, Tom I'd like a double Balderdash (archaic, obsolete term for "senseless mixtures with liquors, as of milk and beer.") and a round all 'round, thanks Tom. While on the subject of "archaic," here is a potion that hangs "balderdash" out to dry. Mix 2 cups of Quaker Oats and 1 cup of water in a bowl and heat in the microwave for 1 minute, cool slightly, and apply the mixture to your hands for soothing relief from arthritis pain. Okay, class is in recess while we celebrate breaking the page ninety barrier at "Our" Place. The 100th page should scroll over some time around Sept. 16th barring any unforseen lapses due to holidays, etc.

Its great to see so many return "Regulars", Pete, Chris, Nick, ***, Dave, Al, Russell and, of course the Perennials- -you know who you are. When such volume of interaction is possible on the humble "Doodlebug," it begs the question: what passenger train subject shouldn't come under Member's scrutinity. Anymore, I believe all parameters related to "Classic Trains" should be open for discourse. From ballast to highest trestles and bridges and everything in between should be "fair game." Chit chat, of course, is quite a different matter and erodes quality input.[2c]

Right Boris, all of the above is [#offtopic], so ring the Parrot bell and put the [soapbox] back in the "Rat's Patoot Room" 'til further notice. The latest issue of Model Railroad News has a couple of addys for electronic needs: www.miniatronics.com; www.mouser.com for anyone looking for that "skyhook" you've been needing. Life Like (HO) has a new GP9 (MSRP $135.00) of UP #151, EMD's builder's # 19152. She looks magnificent and tests show smooth performance.

I guess its time to scoot outta here. There are some ominous sounds coming from the Den![:O] Minnie "the moocher" (cat) is unaccounted for so I'd best investigate. Incidentally Tom, if Insp. Clueless hasn't turned a clue yet, may I suggest the 3 toed footprint could be that of the infamous Fedaralis Bureaucratis Sloth known to scavange around R.R. environs.[xx(] The only known pesticide is a chemical compound: tax incentives and deregulation. Sorry, Congress banned the substance nearly a half century ago.[V] Stay safe everyone.

[Anonymous]

Hello and good morning to everyone. Tom, I'll take a cup of joe and some goodies from the Mentor Village bakery. I had a post a few minutes ago but the @#$% computer crashed so I'll try again.
Been doing some trainwatching because the weather's got cooler. Also been hanging around the hobby shop. Russell, picked up a 1977 ATSF Middle div tt for my trainee, who is a big ATSF fan and lives in Emporia.
Tom, I have also noticed the lack of help from the international community. Seems like if any country has a disaster the US is always first to help. No country has extended a offer yet.
I will try to check in more but I love being outside when it is not 100. I predict our 100th page will be within the first few days of Sept. It just gets better.

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Gents!

Ted

That concoction you suggested for my arthritic hands sounds too tasty - a bit like Oatmeal, I'd say! [swg] My bride purchased one of those parafin baths for me - tried it - didn't really provide the relief advertised. Well, it's much more tolerable in warm weather than winter and I've lived with it so long that unless I do something to really aggravate the situation, it's become part of me ....... Thanx. [tup]

Interesting how we go from feast to famine 'round here, isn't it [?] Frustrating when those periods occur, especially when some of us are trying to beat that drum in order to maintain a decent level of conversation. Very pleased with the outpouring yesterday and it would be rather unrealistic to anticipate maintaining that degree of activity for sure. Appreciate everyone's input .......... [tup]

September 15th, 16th or 17th is the first estimate of when we'll reach page 100. Thanx Ted (you said around the 16th) - any others [?]

Regarding your thoughts on discussion topics, my take on it is we really need to stay as close to what the design of this Forum is all about. To do otherwise is to degenerate to the level that some other threads. There's quite a bit of latitutde with regard to just what constitutes Classic, so rather than open it up to carte blanche, I'll keep riding herd on the submissions just to maintain that degree of releavance. Appreciate your [2c] on the matter ........ [tup]

Looks like we're getting some mileage out of the Balderdash reference, both from you and Nick [swg] Now, there's a Classic term for ya! [;)]

I failed to make mention of our feathered friend, Awk. This polly came ashore with me from my last ship and has been in my private quarters most of the time. We take Awk up to the cabin at Can-Am Gorge on Sunday's for a bit of flying. Somehow, Awk got loose and wound up perched on Boris' shoulder. Now he thinks the bird is his. Birds of a feather ......Oh well - just as long as he doesn't try to eat it! [swg]

You know, those prints could be from the FBS - and I do recall when the preventative was banned. Oh do I recall ........

earlydiesels Dan

Good to get out to do the things you enjoy in temperatures much more tolerable. Let's hope the worst is behind us. September begins tomorrow - fall isn't that far away. [yeah]

Looks like just you and I have noticed that rather strange quiet from the so called international community regarding the disaster in the Gulf. It's not that we need any help - but wouldn't it be nice if some were offered [?] Perhaps in the inner circles of government they have - but the media sure isn't reporting it.

September 1st, 2nd or 3rd is what Dan projects for our 100th page! Let's keep 'er going - any more [?]

Gotta get going on my yard work ...... Cindy has the bar! I know that breaks everyone's heart .... [swg][:-,][}:)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

The Cast of Characters from ”Our” Place

siberianmo Tom is the Proprietor and head bartender.

Theodorebear Ted is the Manager.

nickinwestwales Nick is Chief Chef.

Boris is - well, he’s Boris who works in the kitchen and anywhere else needed. He was hired by Nick, Chief Chef and is assistant cook. He’s not too hard to spot, as Boris is not of this world. Kinda difficult to maintain eye contact with him. He’s playful and unaware of his strength. We do not permit him to tend bar – however, he loves to ring the bell when a round is purchased.

Leon the Night Man is Tom’s relief behind the bar around 9 PM or so, Central Time. He closes up. He’s easily recognized by his rather large size, enormous hands, and shiny brand new Jump Boots. Leon also serves as Doorman and Bouncer for special events and may be seen in a tuxedo – with Jump Boots of course.

Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary and his earstwhile friend and companion Mr. Doyle, Private Investigator make up the security force ‘round here.

The Gals of “Our Place” are:

Ruth the redhead – Ann the blonde – Lucy the brunette and Jemima the raven haired beauty. These gals were found and hired by Tom and named by Nick. They work evenings, pretty much anywhere in the place, Thursday thru Saturday, and special events. Look, but don’t touch – at least not while on duty!

Then there’s Cindy with the auburn hair. She’s a faculty member from the Mentor Village all female University – right up the road. She’s not paid, but loves to volunteer her services either behind the bar – for me – or in the kitchen, with Nick. She’s also active in the local Victoria’s Secret lingerie shows …….

Then of course, there are all of YOU!
============================================

The Hours and Food Service at "Our" Place

We open at 6 AM (all time zones! Don't ask how we do that! [swg]) - Monday thru Saturday - close when the last man standing has departed (or fallen!).

CLOSED on SUNDAY's and CHRISTMAS Day

The Food Service at ”Our” Place –

…Monday thru Saturday: Light breakfasts – bakery goods from The Mentor Village Bakery and sandwiches all day long made from the freshest lunchmeats in the county along with freshly baked bread for the grinders/hoagies/heros/subs……
....NO evening meals Monday thru Wednesday.
…Thursday: Fish ‘n Chips nite and Nick’s Picks or whatever our Chief Chef [C=:-)] conjures up!.
…Friday: Pizza nite – steak ‘n fries and…….
…Saturday: Steak ‘n fries and ……..

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

[West Coast S]

Morning Tom and the gang... Spot of the Juan Valdez, and what have we at the Mentor's bakery this morning? Ah.... Chocolate eclairs, Yes!

Speaking of RDCs...Did you know that the New York Central and Air Research teamed up in 1964 to set a rail-land speed record for a self propelled car? Yep, strange but true. A RDC was chosen as the test vehicle, extensive sheetmetal modifications in addtion to truck work were made to improve aerodynamics and stablity , structual modifications were required to install the Air Research Turbo to the roof along with adding operating controls, test monitoring equiptment and safety interlocks to the cab.

New York Central officials, meanwhile were scouring the system, seeking the perfect section of straight, level track. A location in Indiana was chosen and precisely marked for the five mile test. All efforts were devoted to ensuring that the existing track and roadbed could substain 120 mph+ operation.

Suffice to say the test were a smashing sucess. As designed to do, the stock RDC power plant provided the motive power until such time that the turbo automatically ignited. When this occured it was unknown what would actually happen, success or one former RDC scattered across the farm fields of Indiana.

The cutoff occured sucessfully during the four closely supervised trails, speeds were gradually increased as crews and engineers gained confidence. The highest recorded speed was obtained on the final test, a speed of 142 MPH was maintained for one mile, attempts to exceed this number ran afoul of the law of physics, the RDC had a tendency to want to lift off the rails.

At the conclusion of the trials, the Turbo, added sheetmetal, test equiptment were removed and RDC restored to service as orginally designed.

Obviously, the success of this experiment didn't usher in the era of jet propelled RDCs, but provide useful engineering data into operating at high speeds using existing infastructure and proving that the jet turbo could have a place in railroading.

With positive results now available, Air research eventually teamed up with United and the newly created Amtrak to produce the prototype Turboliner..

Ok Boris, do whatever it is you do.. note to the group, I will be R&R effective 18:30 this eveing until the 17th of Sept. If you don't see me around much, i'm on the road somewhere


Dave [tup]

[Anonymous]

Well, this is my laundry; mop and wax day (hazzards of single living). So, I'm peeking in between wash loads and floor drying times. Cindy, I'll just have coffee on this break because the view spirits could cause delays. I really must keep abreast current on my domestic time table.[:-^]

Ah yes, there you are Tom. I understand that Germany has offered some assistance to our storm beleagured people in the South. I don't recall any mention of the U.S., however. I'm sure more offers will roll in commensurate with the inevitable rise in the price of petroleum. Preferred customer status?[;)] Don't I wish! Say ***, perhaps during your next trip to (was it) Chad, you can "shake" them out of a few extra barrels of "sweet" crude. That Venezuela crud[e] will be the death of many a motor.[xx(]

There is so much more to be said on this catastrophy that I'll leave it to the professionals. I only know there is a terrible feeling of desperate helplessness right now. Looting food? Who are they saving it for? It will just go bad in any case. Clothes? Who will they sell "flood" clothes to later? For sure, the one thing none of us care to hear now (I'm sure) is a politicizing of this or that failure by "this or that" political party. But, you know what? It's already happening![tdn][tdn][tdn] For some, there truly is "nothing sacred." BTW Nick, did the Labour Party blame Winston Churchill for the "Doodlebugs?"

Boris there is no reason for you to ring that bell![:(!] Gadfey, its the bell on my clothes shredder dryer, sorry old man. On second thought, go ahead and clang that thing. I haven't hit a thing "on topic" yet. So long for now.

[coalminer3]

Good afternoon, all. Round for the house, and a roll of quarters for the jukebox. I'm glad I finally got a chance to stop by for a few minutes. Hard to believe we're getting near 100 pages.

Now for something truly classical. Vol. 29 issue 4 of the New Haven Technical Association's Shoreliner has a most excellent piece on the Readville (MA) Shops. including some lovely shots of steam locomotives in various states of repair or rebuilding. God, if we only had a time machine.

The erecting shop at Readville was approximately 1/4 mile under roof so you'll get an idea of the scope of activity there. Those of you that are "captains of industry" will appreciate the shots of all of the machine tool installations, including a lathe being used to work on a diesel crankshaft. Other shots include the sandblasting shed (talk about PPE!), and pictures of the slip track used to test locomotives.

Yes, Virginia, there was at least one engine that "got away" from the slip track. It was a 4-6-2 and wound up in the backyard of a nearby house. I had heard that story as a child, but it's always good to see "legends" backed up with facts.

BTW, does anybody recall the Penn Central diesels that escaped in Boston and wound up on the SE Expressway - talk abt. traffic jams.

Anyway, it's a good overview of what it took to keep steam running and it brought back more than a few memories.

For the oil electric fanciers, the new X2200 has a feature on the Canton Railroad. I remember this well from my sojourns in Baltimore. Anyway, there are pictures of Baldwin and ancient EMD locomotives, along with more modern items such as SW1500s and such. Most interesting stuff.

Well, that's about all for now. I'll try and stop by more regularly but work comes first...

work safe

[siberianmo]

G'day Guys!

Thanx Cindy, I'll take it from here ........ appreciate your help! I see your tip jar is full of fivers ....... must've been an appreciative group 'round here. [}:)][:-,]

West Coast S[ Dave

[yeah] I'm aware of that NYC RDC speed trial resulting in the 142 mph record. However, perhaps the other guys have not ..... nice write up and as always, very much appreciated. Can't imagine an RDC making speeds upwards of 80 mph muchless 142! [wow] By the time this particular effort took place, the proverbial handwriting was on the walls - passenger rail was rapidly going downhill. A last gasp to grab the public's attention, before the demise ......

Very sorry to learn that we will not be seeing much of you 'round here until mid September. Hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable time away from your job. We'll ne here when you return.

Oh [yeah] September 10th at 10 PM (Eastern) is Rob's Biirthday Bash should you be near a 'puter ....... [swg]

Ted

Didn't hear about Germany - but I'm not surprised at the offer-specific nature, if in fact it was made at all. Kinda lilke that nut case in Venezuela making his offer of oil to just the poor people. How does that happen [?] Political statements, all ..... nothing more.

Been watching the TV this afternoon - very unusual for me - but the scenes fromN'rlns are simply riveting - not to mention, devastating. If there's anything good that cam come out of all of this, I hope it is for we Americans to pull together in order to provide quick and adequate relief to those in need. Rebuilding that entire area [?] What a monumental task, but if any people on Earth can do it - we can. [tup]

Won't touch the polticial crap - I've heard some of it today and man oh man does it ever turn me off. Some just can't get away from this stuff, as if their universe turns with the political fortunes. Good grief.

Thanx for stopping by for your 2nd Post of the day .... nice to see the Manager 'round here during daylight hours! [swg]

coalminer3

[yeah] It is quite amazing to think that we're approaching 100 pages. Who wudda thunk it back when all of this began [?]

Need a bit of clarification regarding the term Shoreliner. Wasn't that the name originally applied to NH's RDC's [?] I know that many roads applied various names to their RDC routes as a way of creating some public interest and connection with them. A nice PR move, I'd say. Anyway. NH remains one of my favorite roads ...... I feel very fortuante to have lived in Connecticut for a period of time back in the mid-60's - saw pretty much the tail end of what was a great era in NH's history.

Your mention of Penn Central (one of my least favorite roads - detest it as a matter of fact - because of the way it came about ....) and that Boston SE "distressway" situation does rekindle a flame. I'll have to give it further thought to get a date .....

Appreciate your taking the time to stop by and of course the round and roll of quarters too! [tup] Boris Ring the bell, drinks on coalminer3

Catch y'all later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all
A pint of the usual please.
I see our Queen has sent a message of support and sympathy and I hope Britain will step up to the plate with assistance. As you say Tom if anyone can cope the American people can.
NICK I dont know how you are able to write such great posts at that time of night. I know through many a late night phone calls to my now wife.The piece on MALLARD was excellant There has been what has been called the BEST RUN IN PRESERVATION over the same East Coast route last month not with an A4 (mallard class) but with a L.M.S. DUCHESS when she averaged over 70 M.P.H. over sections of 360 miles according to Steam Railway mag.By the way Nick I hope you will still speak to me after Wales V England saturday [:-,] (only joking) As with grades I think the old road signs that just said STEEP HILL had it right
Thanks CHRIS for the info on 60010. I see that some British ex-pats from Ottawa spent 280 hours on getting another British locomotive at the C.R.N. up to exhibition standard, a 0-6-0 tank #54 named WADDON which has been in Canada since 1963. They have been invited to do the same to 60010.
Tom the K.C STAR says that there is going tobe a locomotive simulater at the Rail Experience at Union Station which visitor will be able to use I hope Amtrak gives us enough time to have a go. [:-,]
Another pint please Tom and a round to all for the great posts of the last few days .I think we will reach the 100 on September 12. Bye for now PETE.

[siberianmo]

Hi Pete

There are only a relative handful of nations 'round the world who have the decency to express support for the U.S. these days - and Great Britain leads the way. Goes back easily to World War One. There is a bond between certain nations on this Earth and it shows with England and Australia in particular. Nice to know that in times of need, one has friends.

Before I totally forget, I want you to know that your participation 'round here is very much appreciated. You've fit in so well that quite frankly, I'd say you're as regular as can be. [tup][tup]

I have some photo's that Chris sent to me by Email that I know you and a couple of other guys will be interested in. I'll try to get 'em up either tonight or certainly in the morning .......

Regarding our Amtrak trip - I'll have to check out that reference, see what the dates are, and coordinate further with you. Thanx for the tip .......

When will we reach 100 Pages [?]

Pete says Sepember 12th
Dan says September 1st, 2nd or 3rd
Ted says September 15th, 16th or 17th

What do YOU say [?]

Catch ya later! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Once again Tom and the gang...I vote Sept. 5th. Are you planning to loan out Boris to the lucky person as a prize? That could be scary, you know how he is in unfamilar surroundings. Where are my manners? A round for the house.

Tom I negelected to inform you my rare caboose find.. As you know, i'm seeking the correct SP equiptment in S scale. Some unknown, mystical force caused the planets to allign in the proper orbit and I was able to aquire a C30-1 brass import, they don't produce these anymore. Man, with this kinda luck, I should be in Vegas! Now I just need to explain my latest spending activities to the wife.

Take care all, i'll be back, keep the stool warm and the beer cold.

Dave[tup]

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Guys,

Here are some pix from Chris ... took 'em at Delson ..... (CLICK to enlarge)











Again, these pix are from Chris while at the Delson RR Museum ....

Enjoy!

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

[siberianmo]

Hey Dave

Didn't think you'd be back ..... brew is iced and ready to go. It's a two step process: (1) into YOU (2) out of YOU! [swg]

That is indeed a great find for the caboose! Are you at a stage where perhaps we can enjoy some photo's of your S-gauge layout [?] What kind of a theme are you into with it [?]

When will we reach 100 Pages [?]

Dave says September 5th
Pete says Sepember 12th
Dan says September 1st, 2nd or 3rd
Ted says September 15th, 16th or 17th

What do YOU say [?]

The Prize [?] Hmmmmmm - how about a date with one of the Gals of "Our" Place [?] Oh, sorry - you married guys are kinda stuck there, eh [?] Well, hmmmmmmm - okay - open bar for you between closing time and opening. [swg] Okay, okay - in all seriousity (huh [?]) how about open bar for you on any Mon, Tues or Wed - [yeah] that's it! [tup]

See ya later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Evening Tom. Time for a double CR and a round for the house.
Just dug out some more RDC trivia I thought I would share.
The cars were known by most roads a RDC's or Budd cars but on the NYC thgey were Beeliners, Shoreliners on the NYNH&H and DSS&A, Dayliners on DAR, CPR, E&N, PG&E and BCR,Railiners on CNR, and DW&P,Honker on OP&E,Rockettes on CRI&P, Rail Motor Cars on AT&SF and Zephyrette on WP.
The following is a list of named trains operated with RDC's
Meadowlark (C&EI), San Diegan and El Pasoan (AT&SF)
Roger Williams (NYNH&H), Daylight Speedliner (B&O), Zephyrette (WP), Caribou Dayliner (PG&E & BCR), Lakeshore (CPR), Chessieliner (C&O), Redwood (NWP), Senator (SP) and Choctaw Rockettes on CRI&P.
I don't know about the ones sold overseas. Maybe their are others with name train status or called special names would love to hear.

[siberianmo]

Evenin' passengerfan Al

Ring the bell, Boris a round on Al Thanx! [tup]

So, what you've told me is that my comments to coalminer3 regarding the roads emplohying RDC's is that they indeed applied names to the routes. Nice to be correct every now 'n then! [swg]

Regarding the Beeliners, somewhere I read that more than one road used that name ........ I think coalminer3 had said - many pages back - that this was the case. Thanx for the amplifying info ....... [tup]

See ya later as Leon the Night Man is about to take the bar .......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[pwolfe]

HI Tom and all.
Just a quick pint before [zzz] please.
Thanks TOM for the kind words and the great photos by CHRIS it looks a wonderful museum I must have a visit some time [tup] Looking at the photo of 60010 I noticed the whistle.I think that the loco ran with a whistle that was given by a Canadian railroad it had a different chime than the other A4;s. the A4's were one of three types or so on British railroads to have chime whistles.There was a great difference in loco whistles in the U.K. This got me to wonder if it was the same over here or if there was a standard sounding whistle, no doubt one of the regulars will know[yeah] PETE.