G'day Cap'n Tom & fellow travelers at the bar!
Set 'em up Ruth my deAH and the Larsman will have a frosty stein of Rheingold Extra Dry! Ah yes, treats for the critters all, including Boris and this time give him a large jar of pickled pig's feet! He's earned it with all the help he provided in getting the Manager's Bar installation completed. I should say, his brute force was definitely a plus in lifting and moving!
Two bits of news today from Da Bossman via e-mail and appreciate being kept in the "know." Not very pleased to know that Rob may not be back with us for awhile - maybe a long while, that's a bummer. Happy to know he's all right though. Long days and nights at work will do ya in everytime.
Noticed that "Wolfman" and I are on at the same time! Have one on me, mate!
I ask for SOLIDARITY regarding the 'call' from Tom to all of us.
No point in continuing to "reward" the spinless few who have taken it upon themselves to try and disrupt the forums.
Been in a bit of a "behind the 8 ball" today and can't quite put my finger on any one thing that has set me off. No doubt the slush factor outside isn't helping at all. <ugh> <double ugh>
Youse guys should be pleased to know that the Mrs. has given her "blessings" to my attending the rendezvous, of course the "providing this" and "providing that" applies!
Life was far, far simpler in the engine room!
Doesn't appear as if my "bookend" will make it in today, but no doubt they are still trying to orient themselves to life back in north America. Crossed far too many time zones not to have an impact. Anyway, a couple of months away will "do it" every time. We're still adjusting from our few weeks down south.
Nice material from Da Boss today and of course as always. Aced the 2nd Part too! Bring on Number three! <grin>
Whaddyamean you can't figure out a couple of those answers, Wolfman <geesh> <double geesh>
Eric, no "Grand Opening" planned, but it IS a good idea! Figured that since the place is rather intimate and can really only hold no more than 4, it should be kept as private as possible. Penthouse Suite is what it is!
CM3, those RDC pix from Tom are terrific and lemme enlighten you on one of them - the picture with the two RDC's was taken in a place called Blackstone, MA. How do I know that
I did a right click on the Pix - went to properties and checked out the Url. Presto! Sometimes that works and sometimes not. This time - BINGO.
Nice details to add to the Cap'ns Post!
Really enjoyed that one Pix with the passenger cars off to the side. Great shot from "B. Coolidge"! There's so much fine stuff out there, huh Figure that as long as proper credit is given, what's the problem in using these things, especially when no upfront prohibition is indicated.
The FRISCO is one of those railroads I've heard about but really had no particular background with. Appreciate seeing it again and makes me wonder just how many fine people were "thrown to the wolves" (sorry Juneau!) when that railroad bit the dust <arrrrrggggghhhhh>
Best to the boyz and hope to see y'all again right here at our favorite watering hole! [tup
One more Ruth, then I gotta skedaddle . . .
Until the next time!
Lars
Good Evenin' Gents!
Just a quickie to let ya know that I've re-Posted the answers to Part II of today's QUIZ. Seems that all of the answers weren't showing up. I scrapped the "table format" and went back to what "works" for me . . . crazy formatting! <ugh>
Anyway, apparently Lars had no problems "flying thru" the answers - whether they were there or not! Hmmmmmmm, HOW did THAT happen.
Acknowledgments in the AM . . .
An ENCORE! Pix Posting of mine from 30 Oct 2005,
Page 151 of the original Thread . . .
Eastbound "Ocean" and Chateau Varennes bedroom car at Halifax, NS, Canada Eastbound "Ocean" at Halifax Eastbound "Ocean" and Banff Park Car at Halifax Eastbound "Ocean" and Banff Park Car at Halifax Eastbound "Ocean" at Halifax Westbound "Ocean" and Kent Dining Car at Halifax Westbound "Ocean" and Chateau Bienville Bedroom Car at Halifax Westbound "Ocean" and Revelstoke Park Car at Halifax VIA Rail Dining Car Acadian at Halifax Track entrance to VIA Rail Station at Halifax That's it - Enjoy! Tom
Eastbound "Ocean" and Chateau Varennes bedroom car at Halifax, NS, Canada Eastbound "Ocean" at Halifax Eastbound "Ocean" and Banff Park Car at Halifax Eastbound "Ocean" and Banff Park Car at Halifax Eastbound "Ocean" at Halifax Westbound "Ocean" and Kent Dining Car at Halifax Westbound "Ocean" and Chateau Bienville Bedroom Car at Halifax Westbound "Ocean" and Revelstoke Park Car at Halifax VIA Rail Dining Car Acadian at Halifax Track entrance to VIA Rail Station at Halifax
Hi Tom and all.
Just called in for a another Batham,s LEON and to thank LARS for the drink..
Really great news you are coming to the rendezvous all being well.That is a great tip on finding info out on the computer, it took me ages to get a message to Bergie but I think it as got there OK.
I agree they are some really great pics of the RDCs. I wonder if the prize in Toms Quiz is the first use of the private bar.
TOM I see you have posted, the language difference strikes again.Really glad you have posted though showing those great cars on The Ocean are these the ones we will travel in May
Many thanks for the quiz up date, now I have gained the apprentice level and like LARS looking forward to the next round.
Talking of rounds let me get one in and another for me please LEON.
Pete.
Good evening Tom and friends. Only have time for a quick shot of Daniels, but always happy to buy a round for ya'll. Looks like RDC's are still making it big. Really great material captain! Got your mail, and will take the requested action. Looks like most of the "boys" have visited and have left the usual compliment of quality "stuff". I'll need to comment more on that later. Please forgive this hasty posting, but I promised another part of the Penn State coal story, and here it is:
Battle Over Coal by Michael Bezilla
Patchell was livid at what he perceived to be Penn State's disloyalty toward the railroad industry. He warned Walker that truck delivery of coal would set a bad precedent for other Penn State traffic and undermine the profitability of BFC's overall service to State College. Walker later wrote that "Patchell swore that he was not going to permit us to bring coal by truck," and talked publicly about the issue, violating the board of trustees' long-held custom of keeping internal squabbles out of the newspapers. It was at that point that the president considered his job to be in jeopardy.
But Walker's hand was strengthened on July 31, 1959, when the trustees' executive committee opined, after much discussion, that coal deliveries did not involve university policy and therefore should be left to the administration to handle as it saw fit. Board Chairman James B. Long, a consulting engineer from the Philadelphia area, summed up the committee's reasoning: "I have no doubt that the difference in cost is even more than the $.75 indicated. This, multiplied by our tonnage, becomes folding money and should not be ignored."
Walker took heart from this vote of confidence, yet the issue was far from resolved. Patchell was attempting to enlist support from a group of trustees on the full 32-member board whom Walker disdainfully labeled "brickyard specialists" - industrialists whose companies had dealt comfortably with railroads for generations and whose penchant for the status quo rankled the Penn State president. If they became hostile, they could still pose a threat to his job.
At the same time that Patchell lobbied his colleagues on the board, he also took his case to PRR President Symes. The two men decided that more forceful tactics were needed. The railroad's chief state legislative lobbyist, William Reiter, convened a meeting in August 1959 with the university's legislative liaison, C.S. "Sam" Wyand, and key members of the state Senate Appropriations Committee at the state capital in Harrisburg.
As Wyand remembered the meeting, "Reiter was very disturbed" by Penn State's decision to truck its coal and warned "by Penn State's decision to truck its coal and warned that it would eventually lead to abandonment of rail service to State College altogether, putting "the truckers in a position to take monopoly advantage of all local shippers.
Reiter became more agitated as he spoke, according to Wyand, "and with some heat stated that "if the university is going to take that attitude, and say the hell with the railroads, then I'll go there (pointing toward the Senate chamber) and say the hell with Penn State. If they don't know who is paying the tax money they are spending, it's time they learned."
Wyand and Reiter "made it plain that he would have no option but to see to it that our appropriation was adjusted in keeping with the support we gave major contributors to the state's general fund, from which we derive our subsidy." To what extent Reiter attempted to carry out his threat is unknown. In November 1959, the Legislature allotted Penn State the full $34.2 million that Governor David L. Lawrence had recommended before the coal issue erupted.
Stymied in Harrisburg, PRR's Symes informed President Walker in November 1959 that "we have decided to conduct an investigation to ascertain the facts involved in the arrangements whereby coal will be trucked to the university. If this investigation discloses facts and circumstances pointing to any unlawful practices, we shall take appropriate steps to bring them to an end."
Symes said he was concerned primarily with "buy-sell coal transactions, whereby coal truckers purport to buy coal and truck it as their own for sale to a consumer under circumstances which result in the "profit" from the transaction being nothing more than a transportation charge."
He reminded Walker that the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) prohibited railroads from adopting that practice. As common carriers, railroads had to publish their rates for all to see. By contrast, the trucking industry was far less regulated than railroads. A large number of truckers technically were not common carriers but nevertheless functioned as such - truckers who bought the coal they hauled, for example. They held, in Symes' view, an unfair opportunity by which to underbid their railroad competition.
Arguing that buy-sell transactions were illegal, PRR approached Gov. Lawrence (an ex-officio Penn State trustee), an old-line Democrat and New Dealer who would not normally be considered an ally of the conservative and very Republican PRR management. The railroad prevailed upon Lawrence to have state Attorney General Anne X. Alpern look into the situation. She seemed more interested in the fact that Penn State was saving money than in any point of law. "The amount of savings to the university by the use of trucks for coal purchases rather than the use of rail fully justifies the present procedure," she reported to the governor's office. "We found no illegality in the proceedings."
Next, PRR turned to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. Four out of five state institutions that burned coal got it by truck. If PRR could get PUC to rule against buy-sell transactions in the Penn State case, the railroad industry might have a stronger hand in winning back some of that institutional traffic statewide.
To buttress its case, PRR positioned plainclothes members of its police force near the campus power plant to observe trucks entering and leaving the property, and strike up conversations with the drivers. On the basis of information gathered, PRR initiated a series of complaints with the PUC, alleging that about a dozen of the truckers who were hauling the coal were not "certificated" by the commission as common carriers.
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
Rule of thumb: "fame" is determined by quickness of recognition. For example, the Flying Scotsman is a famous train but the Flying Yankee is, well, I have to think for a second, oh yeah, that. Blackstone is not Boston but as of today I've heard of it. Amazingly there was once a canal from Providence to Worcester.
http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ma/ma1600/ma1608/data/005.gif
http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ma/ma1600/ma1608/data/008.gif
http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/images/blstMainMap.gif
Doug's Penn State articles remind me of Knute Rockne
http://archives.nd.edu/bagby/45g0374.jpg
Notre Dame & Western
http://www.monon.monon.org/rr/ndwrr.html
Chicago & North Western
http://67.15.20.45/images/c/CNW_E7A_5012B_WB_Clinton_St_Int_Chicago_IL_05_56.jpg.70360.jpg
Chicago Great Western
http://67.15.20.45/images/c/CGW106CnearBellwoodIL10-50MacOwenColl.jpg.42512.jpg
http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/b/BM_1271.jpg.72493.jpg
New Haven
http://www.trumanlibrary.org/photographs/58-126.jpg
Maris, Truman and Mantle
http://www.trumanlibrary.org/photographs/77-2422.jpg
Churchill, Truman and Stalin
http://www.trumanlibrary.org/photographs/58-797.jpg
Truman and Churchill in Jefferson City
http://www.trumanlibrary.org/photographs/59-1106.jpg
http://www.cityofjefferson.net/chill.htm
Mike
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Just a cup of coffee, Leon! I can't stay long tonight. Thank you!
A quick stop to see what happened here today.
Tom – I think the reason they bought Talgo was because they could use any locomotive they have to pull those cars. Talgo does not have an active body tilting system, it is passive. The reason Amtrak wasn’t interested in ICE is because it did not pass all tests and needed more complicated maintenance. More info on RDCs from Budd! I wonder how many RDCs they built and when the last one was built? The RDCs are certainly great looking DMUs! New haven did not put much paint on them, kept the stainless surface! I still have to buy me a model of a typical RDC!I had a quick look at work today (don’t tell my boss) and could see all answers in the table format. I can also see them in “what works for you” format tonight. I passed the quiz at the second try!I love those pictures from Halifax! No doubt train is the way to go!CM3 – Thanks for the info on the RDC pictures! South Station, Boston! I have not seen the new station but I liked the old one. The picture below is from South Station. I had breakfast there at McDonald’s one morning and had to wait for 25 minutes. But it was worth it, they charged only $1 and gave me five coupons for free meals!
South Station, Boston, 1993.Pete – Snow should be outlawed! It only brings trouble, snow is sucked in by the blowers and ends up in the traction motors or some other sensitive places. It freezes to ice and block switches, etc. No fun at all!The pic from the cab shows a Gauntlet track at New Carrollton northeast of Washington D.C. Counting from the left our train is running on rail #1 and 3. Rail #2 and 4 are used by freight trains with wide loads. Lars – You are bringing good news!! I am looking forward to see you in May! Make sure you provide all this and that!Doug – I was looking forward to more about the Battle Over Coal and there it was! PRR really tried to force Penn State to skip trucking its coal!
Eric
Denali Star - from my personal collection
Wednesday's Witticism
Never approach a bull from the front, a horse from the rear or a fool from any direction.
G'day Gents!
Mid-week in mid-continent USA and time for some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery, freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee and a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from the Menu Board!
Another fine day ‘n night at the Bar by the Ballast as the guys have emerged to keep us movin' forward!
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
CM3 at 2:45 PM yesterday: A rare afternoon visit, but a welcomed one at that!
Appreciate the elaboration on the NH RDCs and so forth . . . figured you'd be "there" with insights when it comes to BahStun railroading!
By the by, Lars hit it on the head with the location for one of the Pix! I shudda inserted it . . .
Pete at 3:45 PM ‘n 8:15 PM yesterday: I too enjoyed our phone conversations (morning ‘n evening) - bottom line is that we're conjuring up ‘nother trip to the TrainWreck Saloon along with a train trip!
Strangest thing happened regarding Part II to the QUIZ: Pete couldn't "see" all of the answers, whereas Lars claimed he got ‘em all correct. Hmmmmmm. Upon checking it out, I found that I COULD SEE all the answers on the Thread, but NOT in my DRAFT (Word) in the WP. Let me say that again - I COULD SEE it online, but not in the WP! So, I edited the Thread version and all should be well . . . . Regarding Lars - he must've simply known the answers as he progressed thru the questions, without needing to see the answers OR there's some strange Cyber Gremlin activity working at Pete's Haus! <grin>
Too bad we've lost guys like earlydiesels Dan and Trainnut484 Russell (Permanent members of the Legion of the Lost), for they surely would know the answer to your question regarding railroading in western Missouri and eastern Kansas. Seems to me that the Kansas City Southern (KCS) has trackage in that area, but there are others too.
Regarding the VIA Rail cars: We will travel to Halifax in the Renaissance (Chunnel Chuggers) equipment and to Gaspe in Budd (streamliner) cars like those shown in the spate of PIX - with the exception of the obs dome (last car).
Congrats on making it to the APPRENTICE level (even with help!)
Lars at 4:13 PM yesterday: Great to see the Larsman onboard and Ruth seemed to be rather happy about it too! <grin>
GREAT news about getting your "liberty pass" for the Rendezvous! Received your Email and have made your hotel reservation too.
Surely figured you'd make it thru the APPRENTICE level! <grin> Who needs "blankety blank" answers, eh <grin>
Doug at 8:37 PM yesterday: Great to see ya out ‘n about in the evening! Appreciate your thinking ‘bout us and your Post really filled a void - always chock full o' info!
Saving up your reading matter for a bit later this AM . . .
Mike at 10:33 PM yesterday: "Silent Mike" wasn't quite so silent with that Post, eh Good stuff and always good to see ya here at the Saloon by the Siding! No time right now to delve into the URLs, but I will later on . . . .
Eric at 12:21 PM today: Nice way to "cap" the activities with a visit from our Resident Desert Swede!
Thanx for the insights regarding Talgo ‘n ICE . . . I knew about the "passive" nature of Talgo and the adaptability factor with the locos, etc. However, I question the merit in purchasing that stuff, especially in comparison to X2000 ‘n ICE as "train sets." My guess is had the powers that be purchased sufficient numbers of these fine machines from Sweden ‘n Germany, they'd still be running to this day and without the debacle experienced with Acela and Bombardier. Just my thoughts . . .
Made it the 2nd time thru the QUIZ, eh
Always appreciate an HONEST man - congrats!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
PART III of the QUIZ will be Posted this morning . . . .
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Tom
"Our" Place QUIZ
Here's PART III of the "Our" Place Knowledge Quiz! (Part II was Posted yesterday!)
Each part has an "answer key" lettered from A thru P (more answers than questions, of course!) Simply place the LETTER of your answer next to the question (printing the Quiz will really help!).
Answers for all 4-parts will be Posted on Saturday morning!
PART III - Skill level: JOURNEYMAN
(1) What "Our" Place customer can "relate" to the Central Vermont Railway (CV)?
(2) Who at "Our" Place provides "chapters" of nostalgia on the railroads terminating in Boston?
(3) What "Our" Place customer can "relate" to the Baltimore & Ohio RR?
(4) Who at "Our" Place ‘loves' RDCs?
(5) What "Our" Place customer routinely "peaks" the Groan-O-Meter?
(6) Who at "Our" Place was a railroad engineer outside of North America?
(7) What "Our" Place customer claims dual-citizenship of the U.S. & Canada?
(8) Erstwhile companion of Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary?
(9) Chairman of The Mentor Village Second National Bank?
(10) President of the Our Ladies of Perpetual Motion ‘n Knitting Circle Social Club?
Select answers for JOURNEYMAN group:
A. siberianmo Tom I. DL-UK
B. Vito the Hit J. BudKarr BK
C. wanswheel Mike K. barndad Doug
D. Cindy L. Ruth
E. Wolfman M. CMSTPP James
F. coalminer3 CM3 N. Mr. Doyle
G. LoveDomes Lars O. Joe Matavatz
H. EricX2000 P. Mountain Man Mike
(Sorry ‘bout the formatting - still can't get it!!) <groan>
So, how many times through did it take you to answer the 10 questions
Enjoy!
The Passenger Railroad Fallen Flags of "Our" Place #5
Canadian National Railways (CNR)
A form of this was initially Posted on Page 112 of the original Thread
source: Classic American Railroads
Caveat: The information provided is NOT all inclusive and is reflective only of the periods mentioned.
Headquarters: Montreal, Quebec
Mileage as of 1955: 24,220
Locomotives as of 1963:
Steam: 0
Diesel: 2,125
Electric: 27
Rolling stock in 1963: Freight cars- 105,177 Passenger cars - 2,808
Principal routes in 1955:
Halifax, NS-Montreal, QC (two routes)
Halifax-Sydney, NS
St. John's-Port aux Basques, NL (42" gauge)
Montreal-Portland, ME (via subsidiary Grand Trunk Railway in U.S.)
Montreal-New London, CT (via subsidiary Central Vermont in U.S.)
Quebec City-Montreal-Toronto-Windsor & Sarnia, ON-Detroit, MI & Chicago (via subsidiary GTW in U.S.)
Toronto-North Bay, ON
Toronto-Niagara Falls, ON
Quebec City-Winnipeg, MB
Montreal-Winnipeg
Winnipeg-Churchill, MB
Winnipeg-Duluth, MN (via subsidiary Duluth, Winnipeg & Pacific in U.S.)
Winnipeg-Vancouver, BC
Winnipeg-Regina, SK
Saskatoon, SK-Calgary, AB
Calgary-Edmonton, AB
Jasper, AB-Prince Rupert, BC
Passenger trains of note in 1955:
Super Continental (Montreal & Toronto-Vancouver)
Continental Limited (Montreal & Toronto-Vancouver)
Ocean Limited (Montreal-Halifax)
Scotian (Montreal-Halifax)
Caribou (St. John's-Port aux Basques)
International Limited (Montreal-Toronto-Chicago)
Inter-City Limited (Montreal-Toronto-Detroit & Chicago)
Northland (Toronto-North Bay & Timmins & Kapuskasing, ON)
Maple Leaf (Toronto-Philadelphia & New York City)
Montrealer & Washingtonian (Montreal-New York City-Washington, DC)
Ambassador (Montreal-Boston)
Gull (Boston-Portland, ME-Saint John, NB-Halifax)
Of note:
Montreal & Toronto-Chicago route with GTW Detroit & Port Huron-Chicago.
Toronto-Philadelphia & New York route with Lehigh Valley, Niagara Falls, NY-New York City.
Montreal-New York City & Boston & Washington route with CV, B&M, NH and PRR.
Halifax-Boston route with CP, Maine Central and B&M.
Toronto-Timmins & Kapuskasing route with Ontario Northland Railway.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
CN Transcontinental (1963) (Canada Science & Technology Museum, Ottawa - foto credit: unknown)
Canada: CN Skyview Car, circa: 1965-69) (courtesy: http://www.trainweb.org/ - foto credit: unknown)
CN #2405 "Columbia" Sceneramic Dome (courtesy: http://www.trainweb.org/ - foto credit: unknown)
Hello Tom
I must say straight away I'm getting annoyed with calling in to aplogize for not calling in but the weight of tasks I seem to be landed with is getting worse and worse.
Anyway - another quick call in - and I'll have a pint of Harvey's Bitter please. I've not had time to reveiw past posts (which I want to do) but did want to catch Pete.
Pete - I was at the GCR on Saturday and had time to search the old book stalls for a Colin Gifford book (as per your rec a while back) - after soem lengthy searching I found a 1966 copy of The Decline of Steam - 15 quid (7.5 pints of beer in international currency) - so I was pretty uncertain if this price warranted purchase for a second hand book - the dust cover was rather torn (great pic) but the book itself was pretty much vergy good condition. What decided it was your own recommendation - I thought 'Pete seems to know what he is talking about - I'll go for it" - well all I can say is I am very pleased - superb book, great pictures (I think the quality of paper they tended to use for these books in 1966 is not as high as a similar photographic collection would be printed on now, but not much I could do about that), really pleased.
So Pete, what are you drinking? It's on me.
All the best to all
DL
Good Morning Captain Tom and fellow sophisticates!
Time for some breakfast for my lady and I. Ruth we would appreciate two of the number three selections. Tea for Lydia, coffee with a "splash" for me, biscuits for both and we shall take our seats over by the window overlooking the main lines. Thank you!
Appears to have been a fine couple of days and my review has taken me back about ten pages. I am using the "preferred method" of catching up beginning with the most current pages and working backwards. Works for me, but it is a "slow go" as I easily get bogged down with the Url and assorted reference material. Remember, gentlemen, I am the NOVICE around here and freely admit it!
I must say that there are some notable accolades to be given if what I have seen is indicative of the way things have been since this new thread was established. A rather small nucleus is keeping everything active and our Captain certainly has a way of maintaining course and speed. Good job!
I find it very difficult to accept the absence, or perhaps loss, of Sir trolleyboy Rob from this bar. That is astounding in and of itself, at least according to the way I "connect the dots." No Sir Rob at the bar?? That does not ring true.
Also, I have not come upon the reason for Sir barndad Doug not being here as often, but he was here last night! Some help, please.
Thank you for the emails that have come through. I did not realize that my email account automatically cancelled out after 30 days of inactivity. As I had mentioned back in December, before we left, there was no intention on my part to use that email during our vacation. Hope no one sent me anything that cannot be resent. I reactivated the account and it is "up" now.
My emails from Hawaii and Australia were sent by way of the personal account for Lydia (who added the "caveat" that it not be released).
I am still quite a long way from being as interactive as in the past. Therefore, please tolerate my narratives and rather general discussion points.
That montage of Via Rail photos brought back some pleasant memories of the trip we took from Jasper to Vancouver last year. Fine equipment and as I recall, the Budd cars have pretty much been reassigned to the western routes. Is that true, Sir Tom?
I detected there is a trip in the works for Sir Pete & Sir Tom. Perhaps either of you can enlighten me so that I fully understand the references I have come across thus far.
The rendezvous in St. Louis appears to be still "on," which is a good thing. While our plans will prevent me from attending, my guess is those of you are are lined up to "go" will have a fine time.
Lydia has copied the daily Quiz and we will give it a try on Friday, once I have had at least sufficient time to reacquaint myself with the bar and characters within in. Nicely done Sir Tom!
I must say that my bookend, Sir Lars, has had quite the adventure down in the Florida keys! Now that is the way to get away from winter and the wrath associated with it.
Keys to The Penthouse Suite!! Now that is quite a gesture, one that we will happily take advantage of this weekend, if that fits into the schedule. Saturday night would be just fine for us. No Boris, you must remain down stairs in your shed!
The associated railroad information is extremely enlightening, especially to me, for I have very little recollection of and for any of it. I am familiar with the highway to Key West and recall seeing the remains of the railroad route, but it is all rather vague to say the least.
Sir Eric seems to have most impressively taken up the night time slack and is as "regular" with contributions as any of us could hope for. A fine asset to the bar and perhaps one day we can share some stories about your homeland; one of my favorite places on earth by the way.
Before I secure this effort for the day and head off to the "low lands" with Lydia, I do want to say that I appreciate the positive thoughts many of you put into words during the time we were away. I cannot say that I spent a great deal of time locked in thought about "playing" in the ether. That surely was not the case. However, I did think of the bar and all of you who frequent it. Wondering whether you would survive the diminishing customer base and so forth. Obviously you have and have done so in fine fashion.
Nice to see the continuing presence of CM3 - Mike - DL and James.
Ruth, here's a twenty for the "kitty" and please use it for a round next time you feel we have sufficient numbers at the bar!
BK in Alberta, Canada's beautiful high mountain country!
Good Afternoon Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please with a splash to cut the smoke; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. We got to play outside today and the weather was nice - controlled burn with some DNR and IUOE folks; interesting. No Boris, the smoke is not due to the fact that gas went up 14 cents in an hour yesterday - we are now at $2.49 - let's call it @2.50; nobody on the news "knows anything," of course. BTW less than 2 weeks ago it was $2.19 - oh yeah!
Now to the stack of stuff.
Pete - Even the mighty GG1s had problems with snow. Back in the day, much of the PRR fleet was stopped dead because of snow getting into things electrical. The railroad modified the G motor's body and solved the problem. Can provide more info if anyone is interested. Will see what I can find abt. Kanawha locks.
Lars - You are right re properties - worked for you and not for me which I why I had to guess the location. I was only off by abt 45 miles (LOL).
Barndad keeps us going back to Happy Valley. I'd like to try a model of that Bellefonte Central coach - now let's see, first we need two old Ambroid kits, and then...
Mike - Sent along more links. IIRC there are several train scenes in "Knute Rockne - All American." Maybe we can get the Theatuh to run it for us some evening.
Gorgeous CNW equipment and a lovely set of F3s on the CGW, although the track was a little scary. The B&M Alco is in its as-built color scheme. Also liked the WSC pictures.
Eric's photo of South Station shows it after the initial round of rebuilding. The small section of the head house is all that remains of the old station. In the day, Railway Express tracks were on the FAR left of the property. The Boston and Albany (NYC) operated on tracks to the left and New Haven on tracks to the center and to the right. The postal annex (which was in the RDC shots yesterday) is on the far right of the property. A couple of buildings in the background are interesting. The Keystone bldg. is the one with the big windows. The aluminum structure with the "louvers" on the side is the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. They were at the corner of Milk and Pearl Sts. Downtown for years and then moved to the new building on Atlantic Ave which you see i9n the picture. Almost forgot the walkway on the right side of the head house connects to the Stone and Webster Bldg. Changes since the picture include an intercity bus facility and, of course, electrification. I know, really more than you ever wanted to know.
OSP - e-mail rec'd. Remember as I often say, "Never underestimate the stupidity..." Many thanks for VIA and CN material.
BK - Just think, about 20 more pages and you'll be caught up.
Work safe
Ruth my deAH you simply radiate beauty! Betcha never heard that one, huh
No sandwich today, but I'll surely take a frosty mug of Keiths Ale and if you would, slide those snack trays down my way, wudja please
What's this A visit from DL, but hardly time for anything more than a "blurb" for Pete! Wellllllll, I'd say that ought to be a <tweetable offense>!
Some very good news via the e-mail route as Pete's relay of the info we've been discussing appears to have gotten the attention it deserves. Skeptic that I am, I'll believe it when it happens. However, we surely seem to be on the RIGHT TRACK. I saw what Cap'n Tom sent and now this, surely makes me feel a bit more positive. 'nuf said here. Way to go!
Those Via Rail pix really are something else! Surely brings to mind that I am very remiss in getting my aging butt up to Canada to travel aboard 'em B4 they are assigned to the scrap heap. Great looking cars, just "begging" for someone to travel in 'em!
Things around here are a bit on the disjointed side as we've encountered a domestic "issue" that is taking far more of our time than we'd like. Never, ever want to get "into" the personal lives" of relatives, especially off spring. However, we are a close knit family and because of it, "Mom 'n Pop" are putting on their Counsellors hats. <arrrrgggghhhh> This too shall pass!
Was really pleased to see the continued activity spill over into yesterday and especially last evening. That PLUS the visit from my "bookend" BK this morning makes me see a ray of "hope" for the health of the bar. Do youse guys realize that we've had visits from pretty much all of the guys with the exception of Rob 'n James these past few days
Aced Part Three of the QUiZ - bring on the final chapter! And by the way, the "key" came through just fine for me for Part Two. I'm somewhat confused about what took place.
Just caught CM3 I'm NOT Shane! - nice Post!
South Station in Beantown, been there once or thrice in my lifetime. Of course, my guess is the nostalgia is heavily in your favor. After all, I boarded at the Grand Lady of 'em all - Grand Central Terminal in New Yawk City!
Have a cuppla pix to drop off, then I've gotta skedaddle. Life in the fast lane, dontchaknow! <grin>
MKT EMD E7 #101 (courtesy: KATY RR Historical Society)
Lehigh Valley (from: www.lvrr.com - photo: Frank Czajkowski)
One more, Ruth and by all means keep the change! Key Oooooops, that's for BK 'n Lydia, sorry 'bout that! <blush>
Seeing as DL is getting the beer in I had better have a pint of Kimberley Bitter please RUTH
DOUG Many thanks for the latest installment in the Penn State coal dispute; the latest one is full of political intrigue.
Good picture of the loco and car and time table of the Bellefonte Central service on the 18 mile trip to State College.
MIKE Thanks for the round and for the great links. Interesting text on the Blackstone Canal, it is good to see that part of the canal survives in the State Park. At my home town they have made a countryside walk beside what is known as the ‘old arm' of the Oxford Canal that was disused when the canal was straightened in the 1830s,but is still in use as a feeder supply from the River Swift to the existing canal. It is a very pleasant and quiet walk with a lot of wildlife.
That looks quite a powerful loco on the Notre Dame & Western a contrast to the delightful small switcher on the St Mary's.
Great pic of Winston Churchill in Jefferson City, on his way to that historic speech in Fulton MO. I wonder if a photo survives of the Presidential train in Jeff City.
A pic of the nameplate of the Battle Of Britain class 4-6-2 loco named Winston Churchill in the NRM at York England.
When the Queen in Britain travels by her special train the locomotives are always turned out in immaculate condition. When it was hauled by diesel traction there is usually two locomotives after a very embarrassing diesel failure in the mid 60s when the train had to rescue by a rather scruffy steam loco.
ERIC Glad to see you doing well in the quiz. I am beginning to think my missing answers is sabotage, defiantly a case for Inspector Clueless.
Great photo of Boston South station. When we were there about 2 years ago there were some very interesting locos working on the MBTA, unfortunately I did not get any photos of them.
That Gauntlet track is most interesting too. I have only seen a picture of it being used on a bridge before. It would be good to see a photo of the switchwork at the start of the gauntlet.
DL Really pleased you found Decline Of Steam even more pleased you enjoyed it. Loved the conversion in pints of beer. I hate to think when it first came out in 1966 how many pints you would have got for the 3 pounds 3 shillings (3 pounds15p in today's money) the book cost then (nearly 50 I bet). The last album Colin Gifford done called ‘And Gone For Ever, was 25 pounds when new, I had a quick look and I thought it had came out fairly recently but I saw the book was published in 1994 over 12 years ago, my how time flies.
Yes, it is quite amazing how paper quality and printing as come on since the 1960s,I guess the improvements were so gradual it is only by comparing the two that the difference is really noticed.
Really hope you can get a break from the heavy workload and are able to call in at the bar as we are missing you.
BK Great to see you in again. It seems you are doing well with the catching up, a lot faster than I was when I came back from England.
I think the trip Tom and I are going on as been expanded since before you went on your trip. We are departing in May for Montreal then going on the "Ocean" to Halifax Nova Scotia then back to Montreal to visit the Canadian Railway Museum, all being well, Then a trip to Gaspe and back on the "Chaleur" before flying back.
CM3 It would be good to hear about the GG1s troubles with the snow and how they cured them. I guess it was early on in their careers and the locos they were replacing were still around to replace them on trains while they were being modified.
I will look forward to the info on the Kanawha Locks.
Many thanks for the info on Eric's photo of Boston South, having been there and really hoping to be able to get there again.
LARS Yes the e-mail this morning cheered me up as well. Another ace on the quiz, I will be honest with the answer I am not sure about to today and promise not to look it up and change it. Really having a great deal of fun with the quiz.
Great photo of the MKT E7 on what looks like The Texas Special, the silver painted trucks really set off that great paint scheme.
TOM Good to talk to you again. I have sent the e-mail.
Yes it wont be long until the Canada trip and it will
Evenin' Gents!
Special for Eric: Sorry that I missed your question last night, so here's some RDC "stuff" for ya . . . .
BC Rail RDC1 BC-15 (http://www.budd-rdc.org)
Alaska RR RDC1 (http://www.budd-rdc.org)
New Haven RDC1 (http://www.budd-rdc.org)
Cape May Seashore RDC1 (http://www.budd-rdc.org)
Here's a link that may help you with the RDC question(s) you posed:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rail_Diesel_Car
Catch y'all in the AM!
Leon my good man , good to see you I'll need a rather large keg of Keith's openned for the gang. Least I can do for being unable to spend as much time as I would like around here.
Still it's good to see that with some perserverance we are still getting most cylenders firing on most days 5x for the corps of regulars ( and in Boris's case the irregulars od the saloonn by the siding )
Tom-Thanks awfully for the Quizzs or should that be quiz- I At any rate I didn't have to go at numbers two and three more than once , I actuallt had to read through number one three times chalk it up to "brain-rust" Just from you over this last three or so days I've seen multiple posts worth reapeating, between the fine synopsis on the Frisco to repeated rounds of RDC material to the CNR passenger encore and the VIA and CN pics to support it, not to mention the quiz posts, I must say more than proving that you are the glue that binds
I'll be taking a day trip on the VIA to Toronto with the bride on friday hopefully rekindling my oassion for rail and rail related things that have been forced on the back burner by the work load. the ligth is at the end of the tunnel though ( hopefully not a runaway freight train )
BK-Nice to see that you have returned from your latest rounds of wandering. I've been wandering myself but only in my home province and on work not fun we shall catch up togehter I suppose .
Lars-I'm glad to see that you have been rallying the troops in all our most darkest hours of MIA's and lost members. It is appreciated let know one say that you don't care.
Eric-Nice to see our late night rock is still comming in day after day. Not to worry, with any luck I'll be able to give you some late night company. Not that Leon isn't a fine conversationalist. great phot's and insights from you over the last weeks.
Pete-What can I say, you are a trooper here at our place I must say that the inventory is more organized than when I went away. Hopefully you have recieved good cooperation from H&H. I;'m glad to see that you sent the emails to the upper eschelons,I would say an encouraging responce at the very least.
CM3-Nice to see your continued support and information, steady as it gose as it were day in and day out. The only thing I can say about the gas prices is that it may be inadvertantly Ontarios falt. Our two main refineries bith suffered fires in the last month and a half, CN's conductors strike slowed shipmnets of finished product and well lets just say many a pump is dry in my area giving rise to $1.00 a litre gas again ( not that Imperial oil would kick the consumer when he's down or anything )
Nice to see Doug popping in with his caol stroy in three parts and even DL's occational run through.As Dabossman once said. We takes what we can gets.
Leon another Keith's if you would be so kind sir.
Rob
Well here's some meger add in's for the gang. A couple of RDC's for the Boss and everyone else to enjoy, hopefully as the weeks roll by I can get a few new new things posted up to add to the morning reading.
Pacific Great Eastern RDC at a sattion stop at Quesnal BC
BC Rail RDC's at North Vancouver yard.
I don't know the photographer ID on the shots. They were found in the HCRY archieves.
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
A roast beef sandwich, please! Thanks Leon! You know exactly what I like!
Another late evening/ early morning. Don't ask me where time goes! I have no clue.
Mike – Sorry I did not include you in my post last night. I had a senior moment! I type my posts in a WP and then paste the text. Last night when I was ready (had copied the typed text) to post it I reloaded the page and your post showed up. “Aha, Mike”! I added more text and then forgot to copy it and I didn’t notice that until tonight. Interesting info on Blackstone canal! Fortyeight locks and 450’ rise in elevation. Nice pictures, especially the one of Chicago & Great Western’s locomotives!Tom – The big problem with Acela is that it did not exist when Amtrak ordered it and it was supposed to be constructed, built, tested and adjusted in three years!! It took four years and that train has had a lot of problems, which doesn’t surprise me at all. One don’t develop a new train to a finished product in four years. That is asking for big problems. And that is what Amtrak got. The older X2000 in service in Sweden have now rolled more than 3 million miles each! They have been extremely reliable. Part III of the Quiz had a couple of tough questions, but I think I have it right now (the 3rd time). Interesting facts about CNR from yesteryear! One day (hmm, several days) I have to travel across Canada by train! That picture of the CNR train is beautiful!!Thanks for the RDC pictures and info!!! 398 RDCs built 1949-1956! Boston and Maine RR had the largest number of them!DL – Nice to see you again, Sir! Looking for books is always intersting. Remember a some real nice book stores in London from the late 70’s! BK – You are right, I am very much looking forward to the Rendezvous in St. Louis! Too bad you can’t make it! I’ll be more than happy to share stories about the old country any time! Good to have you back!CM3 – I am interested to know what PRR did to their GG1s to “snowproof” it. Snow creates many different kind of problems for the railroads and that is one good reason I don’t like it at all. Thanks for the info on South Station!! I have seen a few recent pictures and it really looks different today. Lars – Nice pictures of an E7 and a F7!Pete – I am afraid I don’t have any picture of the switch at the beginning of the Gauntlet track. To make you feel better considering the weather in your part of the country I just want to say that we will have nice spring weather in the 80’s early next week! I saw on the news that Missouri was hit by a couple of tornadoes today (?). Take cover!
I saw that you are interested inthe railroads in (western) Missouri. I found a list over all railrioads in MO:
http://www.answers.com/topic/list-of-missouri-railroads
Rob – Glad to see you again! Two nice lookig RDCs. The more I see them the better I like them!
Courtesy: http://www.viarail.ca/
A new month and it's Thursday and the FINAL DAY for the QUIZ!
Also time for a cuppa Joe, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery along with a <light> or <traditional> breakfast!
We're battening down the hatches in these parts as some nasty fronts are zipping through, pretty much following the Missouri River from central Missouri (where Pete is) to where we are. Tornado watch up ‘til noon, with warnings all 'round this area. <barf> Fortuntely got the walk "in" for Juneau as we headed out a tad earlier than usual, just to ensure his day began properly!
DL at 9:07 AM yesterday: A surprise, but welcome visit from our "UK Connection"!! Sorry that you only had a few minutes, as there's all kinds of things we're hoping you'll find interest in.
Problem with getting so far behind is that it does require a bit of time ‘n effort to catch up. Suggest you just take it in "chunks" and you'll be up to speed in no time.
Not to worry, no <tweetable> offense noted!
Love that "conversion" scale you came up with!
BK at 11:37 AM yesterday: Ya know it's going to be a good day when we hear from our "Alberta Connection"!! Appreciate the visit and progress with the "catch up."
One drawback about reviewing missed material in the backwards mode is that it's hard to follow certain topics (ie: trip to Canada, etc.). Nevertheless, it is also my preferred way to do it as well.
I see that Pete has addressed the Canada itinerary. We're going to cover quite a bit of territory in our 5 day/5 night trip. The round trip rail trip to Halifax aboard the "Ocean" unfortunately will be within the Renaissance (Chunnel Chuggers) equipment. <boo hiss> Really would've preferred the Budd streamliners with the Park car (obs dome). But that's life these days with VIA Rail in Eastern Canada. After a full day at the Canadian Railway Museum (just south of Montreal, near Delson) we'll then board the "Chaleur" for Gaspe, Quebec (at the mouth of the St. Lawrence Seaway) for another round trip. That train will feature Budd equipment! <yay> but a rather short consist with NO Park Car (obs dome) <boo hiss>. We're really looking forward to this getaway.
Regarding Doug's presence at the bar: He's had to trim back on his activities here due to demands on his personal time. Weekends are pretty much the only times left for "guaranteed" Posts. However, he has been really good at surprising us with some fine contributions at other times.
Concur with your thinking regarding Rob, one of the "mainstays" of "Our" Place. I received an Email from him yesterday and he sounded far more "upbeat" than in the previous one. Apparently he's taking a bit of time away from his hectic work-life - which isn't all that bad. Don't count him "out" just yet.
Rendezvous itinerary is set and we're going to have a full slate of activities to keep us going, fer sure, fer sure! Would be great if you could make it - especially IF the Larsman is able to be here.
With Lydia alongside, I can't imagine you doing poorly with the QUIZ! The 4-parts were designed to be fun and are just a bit more difficult as one progresses thru ‘em. Heck, the answers are right there!!
Enjoy the Penthouse Suite. Boris will be your waiter, just ring the bell and he'll attend to your culinary requirements. Insofar as the bar goes, "The Manager's Bar" is self -serve and of course is fully stocked. Glad to know you'll be the first couple to "test" it out!
CM3 at 2:37 PM yesterday: Two days in succession with a mid-afternoon appearance! Thanx for keeping us in mind and of course the round ‘n quarters!
I see the "splash" request is catching on!
Now we'll see if the "OSP" gets equal recognition! <grin>
Lars at 2:46 PM yesterday: Having you back in mid-day is a "pressure relief" for yours truly. Thanx! Makes all the difference to KNOW there are dependable guys at the bar!
Don't get me started when it comes to the "advice Dept." regarding adult offspring. Been there done that and don't wanna do it again!
I know we've seen those diesels before, but they "do it" and helps to keep the focus on what we are all about - Classic Trains!
Pete at 5:51 PM yesterday: Once again, a pleasure speaking with you today - especially given the "feedback" you provided!
The "Ocean" operated by VIA Rail is the oldest continuous passenger route in north America. Check out this link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ocean_(passenger_train)
As I understand it, the "Scotian" also operated over the same route, perhaps with a different spate of stops, but that train vanished decades ago. It was instituted during WWII as a sleeper-coach train operating between Halifax ‘n Montreal by CNR. The "Ocean Limited" in those days was all sleeper. Also was another CN train using that route called the "Maritme Express." Check out this link:
http://www.trainweb.org/canadianrailways/articles/CNInTheMaritimesPart3.html
I think we've seen "Winston" before, but it would be nice to enjoy another full view!
Email awaits you!
Good Morning Barkeep and Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Nice sunrise this a.m was followed by increasing clouds and a promise for some heavy weather later today - we'll see what happens. Temps are in the mid 30s here today. Now let's see what's going on today.
Lars visitied with pictures - appreciate the LV item and thank you.
Rob came by also! Yesterday's Buffalo Whizbang had a long story about refineries and the gasoline situation in Canada. The excuse they use around here is that gasoline tankers have to go uphill to get here - jeez - show me any part of WV that's not uphill in at least one direction. Anyway, you drop south of the border into the Old Dominion and gas is abt 30 cents a gallon less than around here. It's alright Tex, quit gnawing on my boots - I'm not going to say anymore. PGE is one of my favorite roads; thanks for the picture.
Eric paid a visit as well. The NEC has a history of harboring all sorts of lightweight/ experimental trains - many of which, of course, operated on the New Haven. The UA Turbo was one of my favorites as you could sit in the forward dome right behind the engineer and see exactly what he was seeing - lots of fun riding down to NY. - although it was noisy, cramped, and smelled of kerosene - all part of the experience. I have not forgotten your GG! Request - I'm getting enough questions from folks tat I can focus what I'm researching.
Pete - this URL should give you the information you need. If it doesn't work, Google Winfield Lock and Dam and you should be able to open it up. I love the forum - sometimes embedded links work and other times they don't - Tex! Stop it!
http://www./rh.usace.army.mil/projects/locks/win/
OSP sent along more Canadian information and additional RDC items. BTW, I have been doing o.k. on the quiz (I'd better, right?)
Some "roundhouse reading" for y'all.
WHAT'S YOUR SOUTHERN SIGN? Some of us Southerners are pretty skeptical of horoscopes and the people who read them. If we are to ever fully understand all the star signs and the people they represent, we need symbols that all true Southerners understand:
See the list below... OKRA (Dec 22 - Jan 20) Are tough on the outside but tender on the inside. Okras have tremendous influence. An older Okra can look back over his life and see the seeds of his influence everywhere. You can do something good each day if you try. You go well with most anyone. CHITLIN (Jan 21 - Feb 19) Chitlins come from humble backgrounds. A Chitlin, however, will make something of himself if he is motivated and has lots of season-ing. In dealing with Chitlins, be careful they may surprise you. They can erupt like Vesuvius. Chitlins are best with a Moon Pie but Catfish or Okra is O.K. too. BOLL WEEVIL (Feb 20 - March 20) You have an overwhelming curiosity. You're unsatisfied with the surface of things, and you feel the need to bore deep into the interior of everything. Needless to say, you are very intense and driven as if you had some inner hunger. You love to stay busy and tend to work too much. Nobody in their right mind is going to marry you, so don't worry about it. MOON PIE (March 21 - April 20) You're the type that spends a lot of time on the front porch. A cinch to recognize the physical appearance of Moon Pies. Big and round are the key words here. You should marry anybody who you can get remotely interested in the idea. A Chiltin would be a good mate but it's not going to be easy. You always have a big smile and are happy. This might be the year to think about aerobics. Maybe not. POSSUM (April 21 - May 21) When confronted with life's difficulties, possums have a marked tendency to withdraw and develop a don't-bother-me-about- it attitude. Sometimes you become so withdrawn, people actually think you're dead. This strategy is probably not psychologically healthy but seems to work for you. You are a rare breed. Most folks love to watch you work and play. You are a night person and mind your own business. You should definitely marry an Armadillo. CRAWFISH (May 22 - June 21) Crawfish is a water sign. If you work in an office, you're hanging around the water cooler. Crawfish prefer the beach to the mountains, the pool to the golf course, and the bathtub to the living room. You tend not to be particularly attractive physically but have a good heart. COLLARDS (June 22 - July 23) Collards have a genius for communication. They love to get in the melting pot of life and share their essence with the essence of those around them. Collards make good social workers, psychologists, and baseball managers. As far as your personal life goes, if you are Collards, stay away from Crawfish. It just won't work. Save yourself a lot of heartache. CATFISH (July 24 - Aug 23) Catfish are traditionalists in matters of the heart, although one's whiskers may cause problems for loved ones. You Catfish are never easy people to understand. You run fast. You work and play hard. Even though you prefer the muddy bottoms to the clear surface of life, you are liked by most. Above all else, Catfish should stay away from Moon Pies.
GRITS (Aug 24 - Sept 23) Your highest aim is to be with others like yourself. You like to huddle together with a big crowd of other Grits. You love to travel though, so maybe you should think about joining a club. Where do you like to go? Anywhere they have cheese, gravy, bacon, butter, or eggs and a good time. If you can go somewhere where they have all these things, that serves you well. You are pure in heart. BOILED PEANUTS (Sept 24 - Oct 23) You have a passionate desire to help your fellow man. Unfortunately, those who know you best, your friends and loved ones, may find that your personality is much too salty, and their criticism will affect you deeply because you are really much softer than you appear. You should go right ahead and marry anybody you want to because in a certain way, yours is a charmed life. On the road of life, you can be sure that people will always pull over and stop for you. BUTTER BEAN (Oct 24 - Nov 22) Always invite a Butter Bean to a party because Butter Beans get along well with everybody. You, as a Butter Bean, should be proud. You've grown on the vine of life, and you feel at home no matter what the setting. You can sit next to anybody. However, you, too, shouldn't have anything to do with Moon Pies. ARMADILLO (Nov 23 - Dec 21) You have a tendency to develop a tough exterior, but you are actually quite gentle and kind inside. A good evening for you? Old friends, a fire, some roots, fruit, worms, and insects. You are a throwback. You're not concerned with today's fashions and trends. You're not concerned with anything about today. You're almost prehistoric in your interests and behavior patterns. You probably want to marry another Armadillo, but a possum is another somewhat kinky mating possibility.
Here's PART IV of the "Our" Place Knowledge Quiz! (Part III was Posted yesterday!)
PART IV - Skill level: ORACLE
(1) Who are the "Three Horsemen" of "Our" Place?
(2) Who are the original "bookends" of "Our" Place?
(3) trolleyboy Rob ‘loves' these diesels (manufacturer)?
(4) siberianmo Tom ‘loves' these locomotives (type)?
(5) coalminer3 CM3 has a "nickname" - what is it?
(6) pwolfe Pete has a "nickname" - what is it?
(7) The URLMeisterMonster has a second "nickname" - what is it?
(8) City ‘n State for our "Desert Swede"?
(9) Island where LoveDomes Lars resides?
(10) Canadian Province where BK lives?
Select answers for ORACLE group:
A. BK ‘n Lars I. Eric - Pete ‘n Tom
B. Staten Island J. DL ‘n Pete
C. Shane K. "silent Mike"
D. GG1 L. Long Island
E. BK - Lars ‘n Tom M. British Columbia
F. Alberta N. Wolfman
G. Alco O. Santa Fe, New Mexico
H. Phoenix, Arizona P. RDC
<Sorry 'bout the formatting!>
So, are you an "Our" Place ORACLE
Railroad Stations - Terminals & Depots
Number Six - London Victoria Station
Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements.
London Victoria Station
Location
Place
Pimlico
Local authority
City of Westminster
Coordinates
51°29′45″N, 0°08′39″W
Operations
Managed by
Network Rail
Platforms in use
19
National Rail
Station code
VIC
Annual entry/exit
48.046 million *
Transport for London
Zone
1
History
Key dates
Opened 1862
Victoria station is a London Underground and National Rail station in the City of Westminster. It is in Travelcard Zone 1.
The National Rail station is officially named London Victoria, a name that is commonly used outside London, but rarely by Londoners. The eastern (Chatham) side, comprising platforms 1-8, is the terminus for services to Kent, and the western (Brighton) side, comprising platforms 9-19, is the terminus for lines to Surrey and Sussex, including Gatwick Airport and Brighton. Although this split is still generally held to, there are various crossovers allowing trains to access any platform. As the Brighton side is the busier of the two, disruption on that line sometimes results in some of its suburban services using the eastern side. Victoria also serves as the London terminus for the Venice Simplon Orient Express, from Platform 2, the longest platform.
Early history
Its origins lie with the Great Exhibition of 1851, when the West End of London and Crystal Palace Railway came into existence, serving the site of the exhibition, which had been transferred to Sydenham from Hyde Park. The terminus of that railway was at Stewarts Lane in Battersea on the south side of the river. In 1858, a joint enterprise, the Victoria Station and Pimlico Railway, was set up to take trains over the river, 1.25 miles (2km) in length. The railway was owned by four railway companies: the Great Western (GWR); London & North Western (LNWR); the London, Brighton and South Coast (LBSCR); and the London, Chatham and Dover Railways (LCDR). It was incorporated by Act of Parliament in 1858.
The station, opened in 1862, was in two parts: the western side, occupied by the Brighton company, with six platforms, ten tracks and a hotel (the 300-bedroom Grosvenor); while the Chatham company occupied a less imposing wooden-fronted building. The latter's station had nine tracks and was shared by broad-gauge trains of the GWR, which arrived from Southall via the West London Extension Joint Railway through Chelsea. The GWR remained part owner of the station until 1932, although its trains had long since ceased to use it. Each side of the station had its own entrance and a separate station master; a wall between the two sections emphasised that fact.
A plaque marks the arrival of the body of The Unknown Warrior at platform 8 at 20:32 on 10 November 1920.
Rebuilding
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
‘Tis the Larsman on this fine day with affection in abundance for our fair lady, Ruth!
A stein of German lager, whatever happens to be convenient and a Lars special hero - ham, Swiss, mustAHd ‘n buttAH along with two large pickles from the barrel. Yes, yes, snacks for the critters - a saucer of brine for Tex (who seems to have been rather active ‘round the ankles of our WVa connection!) - tray of seeds for Awk - bucket of ice cubes for Frostbite and a LARGE jar of pickled pigs feet for Boris, resident cloven-footed-Cyclops and man about town! Ah yes, a round for the house and the change is for YOU my deAH! <grin>
I'm a bit early today, but there are "things" happening around here. Translated: I'll probably get the call to "do" something B4 too long . . .
What a great week this has turned out to be. Perhaps not in the "records book" for numbers of posts, but surely sufficient amounts of quality material to keep us all "off the streets." <grin> Nice work one and all. Especially meaningful to see that our "core" group has made appearances, thereby bringing some hope to the group that we're not about to sink beneath the stormy seas.
Hey CM3, I really got a kick out of the Southern Horiscope. That's a "keeper" for sure!
Maybe Cap'n Tom will incorporate it into the B'day Watch List! Nicely done!
Enjoying the continuing story from Eric regarding the Acela, Talgo, X2000 and ICE trains. If you don't watch it, the whole thing will be revealed B4 the rendezvous!
No complaints from me, I'm always "up" for the inside scoop.
Afraid I'm in the category of super skeptic when it comes to government involvement in pretty much anything called business. That opinion crosses all international borders. I'm for letting the entrepreneurs do their thing, with government's only role being that of ensuring that no one gets mightily screwed because of it. Make sense? Probably not. <grin>
Government created Amtrak once government caved in to the demands of the railroads that government was trying to micro-manage. At least that's the kind of "take" I got from listening to my grandfather and father at the dinner table when the subject came up.
Neither of them saw the passenger side as a losing proposition, only that freight was far more lucrative with far fewer resources (people ‘n things) needed to run it.
Anyway, this government thing called Amtrak wasn't properly funded from the get-go and to this day our Congress has pretty much avoided the subject of a national transportation plan. That's a subject near ‘n dear to Cap'n Tom. He's said it and I support it - Congress could and still can get off the dime by creating such a plan that will once and for all put national passenger rail as a priority for the receipt of federal bucks in line with airports, airlines, trucks, highways and the waterways. Ooooooops, time for me, huh
Back to the posts: Really enjoyed the Victoria Station submission from Cap'n Tom. Also checked out the Urls for the previous ones over on the "old" thread. Some truly interesting stuff in ‘em all!
A five- Salute to you, Cap'n Tom!
The RDC "parade" continues and I'll vouch for the RDC book too. An all encompassing masterpiece in my opinion. Just should have an update insofar as the "where are they now" portion is concerned. But as far as history, engineering and photos are concerned, top shelf for sure!
The return of trolleyMAN Rob to the bar! Well, I'm thrilled to see him back, but not so pleased with his dismal work record ‘round here.
Pete has done a commendable job, given that he is still in the learning stages. Hmmmmmm, come to think of it, Pete also disappeared for a bit - said he wasn't feeling well. Yeah right. I better run that video system we have hooked up at the entrance to the Penthouse Suite! <uh oh> Just the entrance - nothing INSIDE! We do have scruples ya know!
H&H gals are simply incorrigible. They need "mastering" big time!
I've been away from anything gainful insofar as work is concerned that at times I wonder if I ever had a career. But seriously, whatever it is you do up there in Ontario is obviously something you do well and is within your sights for bigger ‘n better things. So keep at it. Just take the time to come up for air now ‘n then.
Cap'n Tom ‘n I had far different situations from most of you land lubbers - I spent the vast majority of my adult years aboard ship. When we went to "work" we were gone for weeks, sometimes months, at a time. Of course, when we were back in port, I had some wonderful times on the beach (translated: at home). The "merchies" have a far, far better in port situation than do the Coast Guard or Navy, right Tom
Perhaps I'm impetuous or simply impatient, but I was hoping we'd see some "sign" that our plea for help is being answered. As I said yesterday, I'm a skeptic and time will tell.
Been paying $2.49 (call it two ‘n a half!) for gas at my "favorite" Gulf station. Prices are ridiculous here too, and we have all those refineries right across the creek in New Joisey. Fortunately, we use the buggy very infrequently and whe
Another good day at the bar so I will try one of Rob's Keith's ales out of the large keg please RUTH and some of H&H's delicious Fish,N,Chips for a bit later.
ROB Really great to see you in .Thanks for the kind words.The reason the inventory is going well is all down to your trainingYou are right, it really pays to keep on the good side of H&H I saw what happened when one of the track gang dared to criticised one of their meals.
Thanks for the RDC pics and I hope your bride and you have an enjoyable trip to Toronto.
ERIC There were some reports of tornados in Missouri but I dont think there was a lot of damage in our area according to the local news.We had about an hour or so of a loud and bright thunderstorm around 4:30 AM.
That was great list of the railroads in Missouri, one to keep.. The Missouri and Northern Arkansas RR looks a interesting line, with the short bit of line in Springfield MO not connected to the rest of the M&NA system.
CM3 Many thanks for the link to the Winfield Lock and Dam.. I see in the photos there seems to be a railroad track along the shore on the side the lock is on.
Really enjoyed the Southern Star Signs but can't help but feel a liitle sorry for the Moon Pies, as quite a few of the other signs are advised to steer clear of them..
LARS So you want an even harder part 5 of the quiz, well I'm game if Tom wants to do it . Think I am OK with todays answers,I have not looked up the one answer I am doubtful of, I will wait until Tom publishes the answers, but I will be honest if I got it wrong, I wonder if it is the same question that tripped you up.
Many thanks for the pics. The picture of Blue Peter looks as though it was taken at Loughbourgh on the preserved Great Central Railway. Blue Peter was on the line for a while, on one occasion Flying Scotsman was visiting the line and on a train I was on the two engines double headed the train quite possibly for the first time ever. I was fortunate to travel behind Blue Peter a few times on the main line, including one fantastic trip from Crewe to Carstairs (a town south of Glasgow Scotland) with some great running over the northern fells and a record breaking run up Beattock Bank.
Unfortunatly the loco suffered very severe damage on a main line trip when it went in to a very severe wheel slip. in which the locomotives motion was wrecked, I have heard that the wheels were spinning at about 140 mph but the loco was standing still, apparently there is a video of this happening but I have not seen it I have found a link telling the history of the locomotive, it mentions the wheel slip in the text
http://www.nelpg.org.uk/A2/history/index.htm
TOM Hope the bad weather avoided where you are.
Many thanks for the RDC pics and link, the more I see of them the more I would like to have a ride in one
Enjoyed the link to the Ocean and the second link by Don Scott is a great piece on the Candian railway in that part of the world in WWII and how they handled the many extra passengers during that time, especially for the RAF personel.It was interesting to read about the Lady Class CN steamships and their war service,sadly three of the five ships in the class were lost in the war.
MR Scott also saw the Southern Railways Merchant Navy class locomotives when they were new when his ship took him to Southampton England. Many thanks for sharing this site Tom.
Great post on Victoria Station, although the station as not got the charm of,perhaps Paddington, to me it seems to have a good atmosphere. That is a good picture of the Underground station, everytime I have used it it is teeming with people it must be one of London Transport's busiest stations.
It is hard to imagine nowadays the Great Western Broad Guage trains using the station although you can quiet regularly depart and arrive from the 'Chatham' side of Victoria with a full 1930s Pullman train hauled by a steam locomotive, not bad for 2007.
As requested Tom a pic of # 34051 Winston Churchill in York Museum
G-day Tom and all present!
Leon- Could I get a coffee please, Thanks.
Well, most of you have probably heard about the storms that have been rattling the United States. Record Tornados and Record snow fall. Here in Duluth, we are in the heart of it. The Whole city was shut down today (except for emergency vehicles). We had 50 to 60 mph winds and snow along with it. We are having one of the worst blizzards since 1991. There have been problems along with it. Many power outages in Duluth, resulting in some of the reason I wasn't on. Believe or not we are also getting lightning anf thunder in this nasty storm. I haven't seen anything worse than this. Just to let you guys know that me and the family are still battling the winds and the snow. In about a week we have gained 4 or 5 feet of snow and still expecting 2 to 3 more feet.
So I will get back on probably tomorrow or Saturday.
I'm really sorry for all of this and I will make it up. Starting with a round on me.
Happy railroading
James
Good morning Captain Tom and all present!!
Leon, you look great tonight! I'll have some Steak and Bisquits tonight! I haven't had any for three weeks now, so it is about time. Yep, coffee.
Some interesting posts tonight! i had trouble with one link though. But I am used to suffering so that is okay.
Tom – I’ll keep my eyes open for that book, RDC The Budd Rail Diesel Car. Reminds me, I am expecting an old book by mail any day now. WESTINGHOUSE AIR BRAKE~1911 RAILROAD ENGINE BOOK. Won it on eBay, $7.Part IV of the Quizz was kind of tough, but I think I got it right the first (!?!) time. Thanks for the info on London Victoria Station! I have been outside that station but did never go inside for some stupid reason. I might have a picture of though.Of the linked stations I have been to #1, 3, and 4.
The picture below shows Stockholm Central Station in 2004.
CM3 – My Southern Sign is obviously Okra! Tough on the outside, tender inside. Hmm. Have to check with the Mrs. At least my sign is not Boiled Peanuts or Butter Bean! Lars – No, don’t worry, I will not reveal the whole story about those trains before the Rendezvous. I agree with you and Tom, Amtrak has been mishandled by the government since day 1. Let me know when you are going to watch those tapes from the Penthouse video system! That could be very interesting. Nice picture of the X2000. It seems like that picture was taken in the early 90’s. Maybe it is me you can't see in the cab? Also a nice picture of the Blue Peter. Interesting that BR and other railroads in the UK had names even in “modern” time. Maybe Pete and/or DL knows more about that? Pete – Glad you didn’t get hit by any tornado! I have to ask you, do you know the reason (steam) locomotives had names in UK even in modern time? Just curious. I can understand that the valve gear was destroyed if the wheel slip was anything close to waht you mentioned, 140 mph! It is amazing how slippery the rails can be in the fall when all the leaves are falling off the trees. Add some very light rain and you will easly get into big trouble starting or stopping your train. James – Stay inside is the best advice I can give! I’ll see you next time! Thanks for the round!!
Where the heck are we?
*Idiot of the Week #6
A pair of Michigan robbers entered a record shop nervously waving
revolvers. The first one shouted, "Nobody move!" When his partner
moved, the startled first bandit shot him.
This guy doesn't even deserve a sign
STAY ALERT!
They walk among us .. and they REPRODUCE ..!!!
The high yesterday was 68 (F) during the morning hours - less than 24 hours later, we begin the day at 28! Quite a storm front passed thru this part of mid-continent USA, fer sure, fer sure! Fortunately, we were spared the wrath of it in the area where I'm located. Wasn't too far off though where the "funnels" were sighted - not sure of any confirmed "touchdowns." So, it must be spring, eh
Time for a freshly ground ‘n brewed mug of coffee, breakfast from the Menu Board's <light> or <traditional> selections and pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery case.
Fantastic finish to the Blues 'n Islanders hockey game last night. Blues were down 2 - zip with 2 minutes 31 seconds remaining. They scored two goals in 38 seconds to tie it and then won it in overtime in 25 seconds. Unbelievable comeback. Sure, the team isn't going anywhere, but there's 'hope' for the future as they've really come a long way since the new "broom" arrived. Clean sweep works!
CM3 at 8:24 AM yesterday: The Southern Horoscope is an absolute "hit" for "Our" Place and will be retained for use in the future - that is, with your concurrence of course! Hilarious and I'm sure there will be "applications" for use in the weeks to come . . .
The Winfield Lock ‘n Dam URL didn't come thru for me, however, I'm familiar with it along with pretty much ALL of ‘em between St. Louis and Minneapolis. In my "previous life" I had professional reasons to visit ‘em all from the security standpoint. Fascinating examples of engineering and equally fascinating people who operate ‘em.
I would expect nothing other than EXCELLENCE from you with regard to the QUIZ!
Many thanx for the quarters ‘n round!
Lars at 1:57 PM yesterday: Appreciate the early afternoon visit - kept RUTH from "bonking" her pretty red-head on the bar while falling asleep on her feet! <grin>
Amtrak, the Congress and what used to be. Perhaps I'll write a book . . . nah, the only people who would read it are those who already know what the problems are and have been. Doubt that there are sufficient numbers of citizens in this land who really give a Rat's Patoot about passenger rail issues, much less Amtrak.
Lars the ONLY way to get along with the H&H "gals" is to make sure "Mama bear" is mollified, cajoled and otherwise kept sweet talked in order to keep things on an even keel back there in the galley (kitchen for the landlubbers). The younger one (and ONLY Rob has the "names") seems a bit more hostile, but does have a "thing" for a certain customer. No names dropped here . . . "Mama bear" and Leon are an "item" in case you didn't know. <ooooooooh>
Mets beat my Red Birds 4-3 in an exhibition game down in Port St. Lucie, Florida. But, the Birds smacked three homers. Are you ready for some baseball
I'll give some thought to a Part V, but I'd like to see some "interest" generated before putting it together . . .
B'day Watch List AND the Southern Horoscope is a "natural fit." Will do.
Thanx for the Pix!
Pete at 5:58 PM yesterday: A truly interesting URL on the "Blue Peter" - many thanx for it!
Locomotives have a certain "charm" don't they
You were very fortunate to have been able to make those trips behind such an illustrious machine. Perhaps one day, the money will come forth and she'll travel the rails again.
"Wheel slip" at the rate you described definitely could be HAZARDOUS to one's well being, not to mention the locomotive.
Regrading "Winfield" - Many of the locks ‘n dams are co-located where railroad bridges are. A definite pain in the patoot for the barge industry. Swing or lift bridges result in delays for the trains as strings of barges pass beneath. On the other hand, the barge operators get irritated by not only the time it takes to "lock through" only to have to wait for the bridge to be made ready for their passing. And the beat goes on . . . .
Many thanx for the "Winston Churchill" Pix - coach too!
Figured you'd ENJOY the URLs on the "Ocean" and other Canadian "named trains" . . . there's SO MUCH great railroad history in North America and Canada surely has it's share.
James at 10:57 PM yesterday: Sounds just like MY KINDA WINTER! Figured the wrath of winter in Duluth had pretty much stopped everything up your way. Appreciate knowing you and yours are okay . . . When you begin to "catch up" try the "backwards" method (most recent first) - it seems to work better t
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #20
Intially Posted on Page 156 of the original Thread
Here's something to enjoy regarding the Southern Pacific (SP) from a 1951 advertisement in my personal collection.
Did you hear what the Cowboy said about the "Golden State" "WHAT A RIDE FER DUDES! SHE'S THE SMOOTHEST AND PURTIEST THING ON WHEELS FROM CHICAGO TO ARIZONA OR CALIFORNIA! ANOTHER OF SP'S WONDERFUL WAYS WEST!" We think, you'll enjoy our "Golden State," especially if you're an experienced traveler. We have many friends who repeat, winter after winter, "chasing the sun Southwest" on this smooth, extra-fare S.P. & Rock Island streamliner. It's convenient. Takes you via El Paso and Southern Arizona's winter resorts to Palm Springs & Los Angeles. She's been re-streamlined, too, from stem to stern. We've issued a folder to celebrate the event and would like to send it to you. Helps you choose your accommodations, whether Pullman (Drawing rooms, Compartments, Bedrooms, Roomettes) or Chair Car (economical; Coffee Shop). By the way, the "Golden State" is extra fast, too - 44 ¼ pleasant hours, Chicago-Los Angeles or vice versa. Fine connecting streamliners. Perhaps you'd like to try another great S.P. route, going home. That way you see twice as much, usually for no extra rail fare. The little map shows how. Why don't you plan on the "Golden State" for this winter or next summer? And meantime, let us send you that folder? "GOLDEN STATE," Chicago-Los Angeles, via El Paso, Douglas, Bisbee, Tucson, Phoenix, Palm Springs, 44 ¼ hours. Through Pullmans, Minneapolis and St. Louis to Los Angeles. Through Chair car, Minneapolis-Los Angeles. Connecting service to San Diego.
SP AMERICA'S MOST MODERN TRAINS
Golden State drumheads
Golden State route map
Train No. 4, the Golden State, makes a station stop in Palm Springs, California in 1948. (from: www.wikipedia.com)
Enjoy! Tom
Greetings Captain Tom and fellow sophisticates!
It appears that the gremlins of the forums have not departed from our area of the mountains and things are somewhat as annoying as they were before our trip.
Very, very displeased with this as it has taken far too many atttempts to log in, then only to find that all of the pages would not load, followed by signal strength difficulties and so forth. We may very well have multiple issues to deal with, so I will refrain from placing all of the blame on the host for this thread.
Well, having gone through all of that drivvel, I think it is time for a hot mug of coffee with just a "splash" to make it interesting. Nothing substantial for me to eat today, perhaps one or two of those Danish . . . thank you, Ruth!
Must report that I have not made any further progress with my review as events have overtaken my free time. You would think that once retired all time is free. Not so, as I believe Sir Tom and Sir Lars can attest.
We have had a veritible deluge of phone calls, emails, faxes and visits since our return to the mountain retreat. This weekend we will be hosting an "in house" which translated means: party for those we call close friends. Should be a grand time.
Drawback for me is all of the preparation and repetitive trips "down the mountain" to get this or that. Should be a grand time. I think I said that! <grin>
Took note of the postings since my last visit and see that all of the "new" regulars have made an appearance this week. I have gathered that there has been quite a drop off in participation over the past several months. However, it is pleasing to note that an appreciable number of you still remain active.
Thank you to Sir Tom and Sir Pete for the elaborations on the Canada rail trips and also the status of some of the guys I had inquired about.
I did manage to get over to the "original" thread and began to back track the pages there too. Perhaps that is what has caused a bit of confusion for me. TMI - too much information along with TLT - too little time!
Thank you to those who have welcomed me back. Nice to know that I have been missed. I did notice that Boris has kept good care of my stool and things around here are looking in good order. Insofar as the Penthouse Suite goes for this weekend, we will have to postpone that until the following Saturday night. Far too busy to get away from our retreat in the Rockies for a trip to Mentor Village. Please do not cancel us out, we surely want to experience it. However, the mention of video tape does conjur up some disturbing thoughts. <hmmmmmmm>
Do you know that I have not read a newspaper since our return If not for the satellite TV, I would not have a clue about events here in Canada or the rest of the world. That is not all so bad. Preoccupation with this and that will do it every time.
Lydia and I are determined to "do" the Quiz, and have agreed to not look at the answers until we complete the questions. She has made copies and all we need is the time.
Best wishes to all for a fine weekend of rest and relaxation. I think the idea of closing up the bar "tighter 'n a tick" (as Sir Tom says) is a fine idea and long over due. Sundays were intended to be a day off. After all, the mail slots are always available for anyone needing to "talk" on Sunday.
Ruth, a refill please, then I will be heading out.
Ahoy Cap'n Tom 'n fellow travelers at the bar!
'Tis the Larsman with a powerful thirst on this rainy day here in "paradise." Yeah right! Set 'em up Ruth my deAH and I'll take a frosty mug of whatever brew is featured on tap for the day!
I see my "bookend" has made it in and has found things at home to be just a bit on the hectic side.
Took us awhile to get through "it" all upon our return from the Keys, even though our absence was in weeks whereas BK's was months. Things pile up. Take your time, there's surely no rush to get through all of the material and the best part is that it will be waiting for you whenever you have the time!
So, young James is digging out up there in Duluth, huh That area of the "lakes" surely gets more than a fair share of heavy snow. Bet Cap'n Tom and Juneau would love it there! When the stuff comes down in feet as opposed to inches, that's where I draw the line. I'll take the Keys thank you very much!
Nice Southern Pacific ad and associated material from Cap'n Tom!
I see that you are "reworking" all of those Nostalgia 'n Fallen Flags submissions, which of course means TIME 'n EFFORT. I appreciate what you put into your posts, makes 'em far, far better in many respects than simply clicking on a link. Just my
Urls are fine if they are supplementing something. I like seeing the material up front and personal. Which of course makes it PERSONAL. Thanks!
I shudda made a copy of my note to "Bergie" but didn't think to do it. Thanks for the "heads up" from BK. Looks like the same response that Pete got. Well, at least he's giving off more of a postiive vibe this time than in past communications. When I sent mine in I got back an automated reply about him being out of the office. I'm guessing he finally got to it.
No CM3 I'm NOT Shane! today Now that's a bit odd for our Monday-Friday West Virginia connection. Perhaps we should come up with a <tweetable> offense for that, huh
Good seeing the continuing and interesting appearances from Eric 'n Pete. You guys are really providing some fine material and helping the bar to roll along while doing it. Fine jobs, mates!
Wonder if Rob got away for his Via Rail trip to Toronto
Heard that much of southern Ontario got swacked with a nasty winter storm and there were all kinds of power outages.
Here's a couple of pix for the day, then I'm gonna have to skedaddle.
I'll take one more, Ruth! And buy the house an end-of-the-week round on me. Boris, ring the bell loud 'n clear!
Sweden's X2000 (photo credit - unknown)
First Great Western HST at Box Tunnel - credit: Ian Britton/FreeFoto.com
Ooooooooooooops, I see Shane has appeared! Posted directly after me!
Have a "splash" on me, mate and it's good to see ya!
Another fine post from you and I liked that hockey game description. I looked in on the Islanders game last night and neglected to mention to Tom that the ending was "out of this world." The Blues looked like a team possessed. The Isles are fighting for a playoff spot but the Blues are totally out of it and guess who won
Happens. I'm ready for BASEBALL! Let's go METS!
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