ENCORE! Saturday ‘n Photo Posting Day!
at "Our" Place!
We are CLOSED on SUNDAYs!
Starting Sunday at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
The Santa Clause 2 (2002)
PLOT SUMMARY: Walt Disney Pictures presents an all-new comedy adventure overflowing with holiday cheer. Tim Allen reappears in SANTA CLAUSE 2, the hilarious sequel to everybody's holiday favorite. Scott Calvin (Allen) has been Santa Claus for the past eight years, and his loyal elves consider him the best one ever. But Scott's got problems. His son Charlie has landed on this year's "naughty" list, and if Scott doesn't marry by Christmas Eve -- one very, very short month away -- he'll stop being Santa forever. Embracing Christmas and the magic of family with heart, warmth, fun, and charm, SANTA CLAUSE 2 is classic holiday entertainment everybody will enjoy again and again.
Walt Disney Pictures presents an all-new comedy adventure overflowing with holiday cheer. Tim Allen reappears in SANTA CLAUSE 2, the hilarious sequel to everybody's holiday favorite. Scott Calvin (Allen) has been Santa Claus for the past eight years, and his loyal elves consider him the best one ever. But Scott's got problems. His son Charlie has landed on this year's "naughty" list, and if Scott doesn't marry by Christmas Eve -- one very, very short month away -- he'll stop being Santa forever. Embracing Christmas and the magic of family with heart, warmth, fun, and charm, SANTA CLAUSE 2 is classic holiday entertainment everybody will enjoy again and again.
A Christmas Carol (1951)
PLOT SUMMARY: This is the desert-island choice of the many versions of A Christmas Carol, with a magnificent, full-bodied portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge by Alastair Sim that leaves everyone else in the dust. Lean and direct, this film's version of the story wastes no time trying to impress viewers with the magical nature of the spirits' visitations. Director Brian Desmond Hurst keeps the focus on Scrooge's life story, beautifully simplifying and underscoring the theme of lost women with a haunting musical refrain from the folk song "Barbara Allen." Sim's commitment to the role is at times astonishing; his Scrooge's Christmas-morning ecstasy is a marvel of giddy technique. Watch for Patrick Macnee (Steed in The Avengers) as the young Jacob Marley--the actor made his screen debut in this 1951 production. --Tom Keogh
This is the desert-island choice of the many versions of A Christmas Carol, with a magnificent, full-bodied portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge by Alastair Sim that leaves everyone else in the dust. Lean and direct, this film's version of the story wastes no time trying to impress viewers with the magical nature of the spirits' visitations. Director Brian Desmond Hurst keeps the focus on Scrooge's life story, beautifully simplifying and underscoring the theme of lost women with a haunting musical refrain from the folk song "Barbara Allen." Sim's commitment to the role is at times astonishing; his Scrooge's Christmas-morning ecstasy is a marvel of giddy technique. Watch for Patrick Macnee (Steed in The Avengers) as the young Jacob Marley--the actor made his screen debut in this 1951 production. --Tom Keogh
SHORT: Crash Goes the Hash (1944)
PLOT SUMMARY: The stooges are mistaken for reporters and are hired to do a story on Prince Shaam for a $100 bonus. Larry and Curly pose as butlers while Moe is the cook. After some failed attempts to get a picture of Prince Shaam and his girlfriend the stooges really mess up on the delivery of the turkey and are fired. After trying to sneak for a picture one last time they find out that Prince Shaam and the head butler are crooks that are just trying to get the girlfriend's money. So the stooges take a picture of them and a wild fight goes on. The stooges win and are successful reporters. Plus, the girlfriend wants to marry Curly!
The stooges are mistaken for reporters and are hired to do a story on Prince Shaam for a $100 bonus. Larry and Curly pose as butlers while Moe is the cook. After some failed attempts to get a picture of Prince Shaam and his girlfriend the stooges really mess up on the delivery of the turkey and are fired. After trying to sneak for a picture one last time they find out that Prince Shaam and the head butler are crooks that are just trying to get the girlfriend's money. So the stooges take a picture of them and a wild fight goes on. The stooges win and are successful reporters. Plus, the girlfriend wants to marry Curly!
This is ENCORE! Saturday - and - Photo Posting Day!
Remember: "Our" Place is CLOSED on Sundays.
<But if you must "talk," drop your thoughts thru the mail slots on either set of front doors!>
G'day Gents!
Snow is still falling, but rather intermittent - Juneau is having a BLAST! He just doesn't want to come inside . . .
Appreciate seeing our Manager aboard this Saturday with a few selections from his inexhaustible supply of dome Pix! <grin>
Here's some traction shots from my archives to keep things going on this rather quiet Saturday at the Bar by the Ballast! All of these are ENCORES! from the Original Thread . . .
IT #122 - (courtesy: donsdepot.donrossgroup.net - foto credit: unknown)
IT #121 (courtesy: donsdepot.donrossgroup.net - fotocredit: unknown)
IT #101 (courtesy: donsdepot.donrossgroup.net - foto credit: unknown)
IT #100 (courtesy: donsdepot.donrossgroup.net - foto credit: unknown)
IT #203 (courtesy: donsdepot.donrossgroup.net - foto credit: unknown)
IT #234 - party car trailer (courtesy: donsdept.donrossgroup.net - foto credit: unknown)
Enjoy!
Tom
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Cindy my sweet, you are such a delight to behold on this Saturday morn' where things are wintry ‘n the blustAH is all about. A mugga Joe with a "BK splash" will be fine ‘n I'll grab a few crullAHs from the bakery case.
Boris, feed the gang wudja please When you're finished, that small jar of PPF is YOURS!
A round of CHEER for da boyz my sweet, ‘n the change is YOURS! <grin>
Good support from our Canadian Connections as we've seen Rob ‘n Fergie holding things together with a visit from our Sandbox Swede - Eric in the early, early AM too!
Thanks guyz, it's good that you care - for we'd be adrift withoutcha! <uh oh>
Gotta couple of days off for the Mrs. as her tests will continue into next week. I'll keep Da Bossman apprised by email when something is known. Right now, we're still planning on heading south right after Christmas . . . hope to spend the celebration of the New Year at our getaway place in the Keys. If not, boy oh boy there will be H to pay ‘round here. <uh oh>
The discussion about steroids ‘n baseball <sports in general> is a TOTAL turn-off. I'm "with" Cap'n Tom when it comes to hoping all of it will self-destruct. Isn't it amazing how many of us have succeeded in life WITHOUT have to resort to cheating Good Grief Charlie Brown!
For Fergie: At least you own up to your shortcomings. Some guys are just too busy to recognize that there are things in life requiring time ‘n attention as well. I'm not the best at the written word - the Mrs. takes care of the cards ‘n lettHs <yeah, we still write lettAHs!!> But I'll be if I'll evAH understand or tolerate those who can't find them time to respond in kind to a kind gesture. <triple barf>
Had you been a snipe, you'd be comfy cozy down in the engineroom! Anyway, would LOVE to view any pix you come up with of the ALCOs . . . .
For Da Bossman: Liked the Hell Gate material - top drawer, mate! Also the Thursday material on those Railroad Magzine covAHS flicked my switch too! <grin>
Enjoyed the pix of our cash registers - Tilla ‘n Cashinator that appeared on the Thursday summary! Good way to introduce the "fun things" to the new guyz ‘n reacquaint to the crew.
Glad you've agreed to go with reruns ‘til the New Year . . .
SNOW for the puppy has to be a lots of fun! Sounds like YOU like it as much as he does. ,grin>
For Pete: Hope your trip to wherever you go was safe. I see that Missouri is in the snow band, so wintAH has arrived, huh Do they let you drive in the states If so, do you have that <black bag> strapped to you behind the wheel <tee hee>
Nice Thursday photos from your mate, Alan!
For Rob: Guess we'll have to get "the Committee" together to determine whether you've "won" their approval for reinstatement as a "regular" ‘round here. You've been very diligent ‘n back to "normal" <which requires MUCH imagination!!> . . . .
You've really put together some fine reading mattAH, ‘n my guess is the majority of it is "new" to the guyz at the bar. I recall "some," but enjoy going through it again <aside from your typo problem, that is!!!> Appears that you'll be heading off to Molly Throttlebottom's Adult Learning Center <'n Mud Wrestling Emporium> for the Typing Challenged with Pete ‘n Boris! <uh oh>
For Eric: Too bad the surgery has to be so far off, for my guess is you'd prefer to have all of this way behind you.
Not even a thread of "home sickness" for ya Wudda thunk otherwise. Sounds like
<"Our" Place Christmas Holiday Train>
It's SNOWING here in mid-continent USA with the temps in the hi-20s (F) <hoooooooray!!!> Juneau enjoyed his first morning walk ‘n will be in doggie delight as we're to have white stuff falling all through the day ‘n nite! <grin>
Coffee's ready - pastries fresh ‘n breakfasts all ready for orderin' - so what's the delay
Comments from the Proprietor:
We're well into "that" time of year where "things" overtake the time available to "play" in the Ether . . . so, keep this Tavern by the Tracks in mind whenever you happen to be online, will ya
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative)
Friday - Dec 14th:
Lars (LoveDomes) at 8:45 AM: Always happy to have our Manager on board . . . ‘n been thinking about some of the thoughts you've shared. Pretty much comes down to the reality that it's you, Pete, Eric ‘n Moi as regulars ‘round here with <CM3 Shane on the cusp>‘n that's the way it's been for months ‘n months. Everyone else falls into their own niche, so to speak. But don't misunderstand - EVERYONE's contributions ARE appreciated ‘n most welcome!
There was a brief period when it looked like our "irregular regulars" would bail us out of the <doldrums>, ‘n they did. But now, well - they too can't be depended on very much. A bright note is the return of our Resident Ontario Connection - Rob, who is making every effort to get back into full sway. Just don't wanna have him <or anyone else> burn out on us . . . that's a definite drawback to these Forums . . .
Can't come up for "reasons" why some disappear without so much as a notice - whereas others take a hiatus from the bar due to constraints on time. Just the way it is ‘n we have NO choice but to move along with or without ‘em . . . We have our "off-line Email net" which is sparsely used. It's a good vehicle to let me KNOW what's "up" . . .
I have a "practice" in my life that pretty much goes like this: Take the time to remember those who remember you. Works for me . . . Of course there are always those who find the excuses for "why not," but hardly ever for "of course I did!"
Liked that spate of book covers you came up with for the railway stations ‘n depots. Good idea!
Many thanx for the continued ‘n sincere support for the bar! Round too . . .
Fergie (Fergmiester) at 1:16 PM: I don't know why it was, but whenever winter set in with dark days ‘n <gloom> the conditions ALWAYS were far harsher at dockside than at the gate, if you follow my drift. <brrrrrrrrrrr> Can still recall those loooooooong Quarterdeck watches <4 hours>, especially Boston, standing on deck freezing one's <patoot> to the bone, but ALWAYS looking sharp! <groan> Guess you civilians don't have to be concerned with any of that, though . . . some pluses for being non-military, eh <grin>
YOU haven't really been <bad> at the bar, just took you a bit of time to figure out that we're <different> from what you've been used to . . . However, the <tweeter> is at "the ready" whenever you pass through those portals! <grin>
Thanx for the visit!
Rob (trolleyboy) at : 1:52 PM ‘n 1:58 PM: Many thanx for the dual visits! I enjoyed reading through your account of the commuter ‘n radial lines in Toronto. That Classic Juice #39 first appeared on Apr 26th, 2007 here on the reborn Thread, Page 53 to be precise! <grin> Good reading!
Don't wanna be a <wet blanket> but there's just gotta be a reeling in of international travel for me, especially to Canada <Nova Scotia remains the exception>. I
Good Morning Capt'n Tom and All
low 20's this a.m. as we prepare for the Nor Easter coming in late tomorrow then temps will go to 40 or so. So I'll have a large Cafe with the normal extras.
Rob Excellent synopsis of the early history of Toronto's Railways. I have two books at home on that subject but have to say you really captured the history in one fell swoop. Thank you.
Anyway must un as I have paper to shuffle
Later All
Fergie
http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=5959
If one could roll back the hands of time... They would be waiting for the next train into the future. A. H. Francey 1921-2007
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!Leon, I’ll have just a cup of coffee. Can't stay very long tonight. You keep the change!Friday! Just one more week! The Bar by the Siding was a quiet place today! I guess most are busy getting things in order for Christmas! We had the 3rd morning in row with ice on the windshield! Tom – I remember those magic, green, eyes on the radios from yesteryear! Very fascinating!Add to that... ...reel to reel tape player/recorder. ...8-track tape playersNo, nothing special was going on in my life on Dec. 13, St. Lucia Day. But Lucia was something that was (and still is) celebrated every year and I grew up with it. Watching it on TV nowadays make me feel very nostalgic. No, it has nothing to do with “home sickness”.Hell Gate Bridge, very interesting! One of my favorite railroad bridges! See pictures below
Hell Gate Bridge 1993.
Lars – I feel fine again, but it certainly is interfering with my Christmas. I have to skip a lot of the real good stuff this year. I’m going to IKEA this weekend to get some super good Swedish Christmas food! Nice books! Railroad depots is a very interesting topic! I’ll pick the last one, Railroad Depots of North & South Dakota.Fergie – As far as I know there are no rules against burping. I would like to see pictures of the ALCO engine inspection and refit! Rob – Feeling much better today, thank you. I am looking forward to get this problem taking care of. Most likely it will happen the second week of January. Maybe one day I’ll be around Buffalo/Niagara Falls when it is time for the Air Show! That would be interesting. I have always been a very poor Swede. I never, ever, liked cold weather. Everything below 75° F is toooooo cold! I just hate snow and ice. Interesting to read about Toronto’s first commuter lines, beltway and radial lines! Thanks!Nice pictures, especially of the dome-observation car! Way to travel! The other two pictures are very small and do hardly enlarge at all.
Eric
Good evening again , hmmm slooow day here, guess Leon's had an easy shift. Oh well I'll poor myself a Keith's as Leon deserves this right before christmas break. Good plan to go with encores till were over the holiday hump.
Tom-Nice bridge article , I'll read it more in depth tomorrow once my eyes are a bit more co-operative.
I'll drop off a few photo's to start off the saturday picture posting fest.
Here's four from our summer trip out to the rock.
enjoy Rob
Good to see Lars - Fergie 'n Rob today! Guess Jan (JanOlov) has dropped by the wayside . . . strange. And "who knows" where Per (marthastrainyard) is. He said he'd be back on Nov 29th . . . hmmmmmm.
Just dropping off a little something for the late afternoon "slot" . . .
I think our Manger's idea to go with "reruns" from here 'til the New Year makes great sence . . . so here's one to enjoy!
Great Railroad Bridges - #1Used with permission from Wikipedia.com
Hell Gate
<First appeared on Page 389 of the Original Thread on Sep 6th, 2006>
Hell Gate, shown in red, in a satellite photo of New York Harbor. It separates Ward's Island (to the west) and Astoria, Queens (to the east)
Hell Gate is a narrow tidal strait in the East River in New York City in the United States. It separates Randall's Island and Ward's Island (formerly two islands that are now joined by landfill) and Astoria, Queens.
It was spanned in 1917 by the New York Connecting Railroad Bridge (now called the Hell Gate Bridge), which connects the Bronx and Queens. The bridge provides a direct rail link between New England and New York City. In 1936 it was spanned by the Triborough Bridge, allowing vehicular traffic to pass between Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens.
The name "Hell Gate" is a corruption of the Dutch phrase Hellegat, meaning "bright passage," which was originally applied to the entirety of the East River. The strait was described in the journals of Dutch explorer Adriaen Block, who is the first European known to have navigated the strait, during his 1614 voyage aboard the Onrust.
The first Hellegat is a branch of the Scheldt River estuary in East Flanders, which is still today an idyllic camping spot popular with European tourists. But because explorers found navigation hazardous in this New World place of rocks and converging tide-driven currents (from the Long Island Sound, Harlem River strait, Upper Bay of New York Harbor and lesser channels, some of which have been filled), the Anglicization stuck.
Some theorize, however, that Block might have named the strait with both meanings in mind, sliding a pun into place to evade the censorship of his strict Lutheran paymasters.
By the late 19th century, hundreds of ships had sunk in the strait. In 1876, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers blasted the dangerous rocks, which was followed by further blasting work. One explosion in Hell Gate was the largest man-made blast in history up until the Atomic Age.
Though Hell Gate is still considered difficult to navigate due to strong tidal flows, its reputation is based on myth more than fact. At certain points in the tidal cycle, its waters briefly go slack, making it as placid as a lake. Even at peak current, competent kayakers and canoeists pass through without trouble. The greatest danger is the artificial one posed by heavy commercial vessel traffic through the tight channel.
Hell Gate Bridge
Well Ruthy I think a quick top up of the Irish coffee is in order, I can just about feel my toes again, which is a good thing. Here'sa bit of afternoon nap time reading for everybody.
CLASSIC JUICE #39 TORONTO'S FIRST COMMUTER LINES
By 1890 Toronto was booming the old Union station was bursting at capacity and the heavily industrialized shoreline was covered with railyards and the pall of coal smoke from plants and locomotives and the steamships and ferries that called on the portlands.
Meanwhile in the purer air of the suburbs, the landboom was well underway.In this period a group of businessmen decided to build a new railway line,radical in it's design and approach.It would encircle the booming city and would link up with the various radial ( interurban ) lines then being built to and from the city.
This would be the Belt Line Railway. It would consist of two belts,starting from a station in the Don Valley, the Rosedale Station. From here one loop would creep up the valley from the Don River towards the Mount Pleasant Cemetary.Then it would angle northwest to Bathurst street and then bend west to the Grand Trunk line and follow it south into the city.From the Davenport Station,located just south of St Clair the second belt loop would venture westerly to lambton and follow a route southerly along the east bank of the Humber River to Swamsea station on the western branch of the Grand Trunk line.
The plan called for ten stations,two of which it would share with the Grand Trunk ( stations at Davenport and Parkdale )While most of the other stations were set up as flagstops.The pne built at Moore Park was the pride of the line.Of all the new subdivisions the line would serve Moore Park was the wealthiest.To fit in with the giant mansions and wide streets, local archetect John Moore designed this grand station with four turrets and placed it in the middle of a large park.
Unfortunatly the park with it's public gardens was never completed as two years after the lines completion, the boom collapsed and the Belt line was absorbed by the Grand Trunk and used as an industrial spur ( much of it still today infact )
The radial lines however were another story and were much more successfull.The first one the Metroploitan RR began as a horse car line running along Yonge street between Summerhill & Eglington St's. In 1890 the horses were replaced by speedier electric streetcars.Following the demise of the Belt Line,and the suburban growth recovered and this line now called the North Yonge railways continued north to Glen Echo by 1892 and Newmarket by 1899.To attract more customers the radial line started up recreation parks in Bond Head on the shores of Bond Lake a 200 acre park all together.And a second park on the large Glacial pond in the town of Oak Ridges.
Radial fever was now in full swing and radial lines were built westward to Port Credit in 1905,eastward to West Hill in 1906. Like the North Yonge line this line the Toronto and Scarborough RR built parks to gain more business.Victoria Park at Blayntyre Street and the Toronto Hunt Club on Kingston road at Warden, and Scarborough Heights Park on St Clair.
Upto this point all these lines followed existing roads.In 1904 Mackenzie and Mann of the Canadian Northern fame satrted building their coast to coast railway empire and bought up these radial lines and began extending them acccross the countryside.The Toronto & Yrok was extended into Sutton on Lake Simcoe in 1909 with another Branch built to Schomberg known as the Schomberg and Auruora.In 1911 the Toronto Suburban then just a small streetcar line was added to the empire, and by 1917 was built into a radial reaching Guelph ontario, with twenty station stops between Weston & Guelph ( our musuem property is part of this old line ).
In 1912 when sir Adam Beck's Ontario Hydro entered the radial fray electric lines were everywhere in Ontario.Kitchener through Galt ( Grand River Railway ) Brantford to Port Dover ( Lake Erie and Northern )Hamilton to Brantford ( Hamilton & Brantford ) Hamilton to Beamsville and prot Dalhousie to Port Colbourne ( Niagara St Catharines and Toronto RR ) along with the proto type The London and Port Stanley which ran from London thorugh St Thomas to Port Stanley.
In 1922 when Mackenzie & Mann's Canadian Northern Empire failed Toronto's newly formed Toronto Transportation Commision (TTC) took over all the radials in the city while the Ontario Hydro Corp took over the North Yonge & the Scarborough radials.CNR assumed control of the NS&T and the Toronto Suburban as well as the Oshawa radial Railway and the Montreal and Southern Counties forming the CN electric lines.They even continued the construction on the eastern leg of the belt line which had worked stopped on it in 1913 eventually extending it to Coburg Ontario.
By 1927 buses and cars were sounding the death nell for the smaller radials.The Schomberg branch was the first to go followed in 1931 by the Toronto Suburban to Guelph.By 1936 most of the lines were gone with the Toronto york radil comming under the control of the TTC until it was replaced in 1954 by the Yonge Subway Line.The Ontario Hyudro lines faired better with the L&PS,GRR and LE&N all surviving till the late 1950's. Similarly the CN owned lines the NS&T and MS&C all made it to 1960 however losing bits and pieces along the way to abandonement since shortly after the war.A brief synposis.
Rob
Good afternoon Ruth , hey who dragged all this seaweed in here well at least Boris seems interested in it ( the only greens he eats ) It's still a chilly one sooo I think a BK splashed coffee and an Irish coffee for a chaser.
Eric-Sorry to hear that you had another relapse, I'm guessing that january can't come fast enough.Yes that Niagara Falls airshow has been a yearly event for teh last three or four years.To make a long story short, the guy that owns the airstrip ( private grass field for small aircraft )used to work for one of the "big" media outfits,he had some work he was working on missapropriated or unpaid for or some such and recieved a handsome re large out of court settlement,therefore being the plane nut he was he's slowley amased his collection.On the upside he has all the right people on the payroll helping him to preserve his collection and maintain it, he's also learning how to fly them under proper supervision of coarse.
He has kept good relations with various other warbird types and every years gets others to come down with their aricraft as well,which is a great thing
Thanks for the editional info on the Lokomoters and the picture, I see that the wto of you are on the same wavelength. It's amazing howmany Swede's have resettled over here, mind you if Sven's in the twin cities then at least he has embraced the northern climes more than yourself.Snow and cold man it's a good thing
Tom-Hey boss , yup I heard the drivel outta the MLB offices or orifices depending on your slant.A truer pile of stinky garbage I have not heard. One thought I had however,maybe they should allow all performance enhancing drugs to make it a level playing field, perhaps reverse pshycology is the best way to attack it.If everyone's on it and they all can perform superhuman feats, then they may decide that actually doing it the old way might be better, just a thought.
I'm game if you are ( exporail ) a suggestion would be ensure that Pete leaves the black bag at home. Maybe we can buy him a suitable replacement that's pink or somethingI'm glad that you can speak fench , I was actuallyu figuring that you could translate Pete for me as opposed to the natives, seeing as how you know him and spent more time with him than myself
Lars- Ah yes in and ut with a flash and a flourish, and some mighty nifty book covah's
Fergie-Nice to know I'm not the only one who did not get the decorations up on the outside this year. Mind you sure fired lazyness is what kept me from doing itGood to knwo I suppose that you don't need to venture forth into this comming storm.Pics of teh engine rebuild would be wunnerfull if you are able. just tell you guys didn't rip it out of some poor unsuspecting locomotive though
Good Afternoon Capt Tom and Crew
It's a very cold and bitter December day so better fill the Thermos with the full "Harbour Package" and don't spare the anti freeze!!!
Might as well top up on stores as well so I'll have the Fish Cakes, Baked Beans, Hash Browns and a couple of Sunny Sides! Please and thanks~
Sven wrote: Fergie, Thank for the advise. I read the first page with the rules. Are there any fine print rules too hidden somewhere? I'll try not to burp too loud at the bar.Ruth, delicous Belgian Waffles. Awk and I enjoyed them immensley. I will be bacK. If Fergie do not think I misbehave, and bounces me at the door.
Fergie, Thank for the advise. I read the first page with the rules. Are there any fine print rules too hidden somewhere? I'll try not to burp too loud at the bar.
Ruth, delicous Belgian Waffles. Awk and I enjoyed them immensley. I will be bacK. If Fergie do not think I misbehave, and bounces me at the door.
Burping? was there a rule against that? I hope not as I would have been tweeted continually! Gawd No there's a contest in the making there
And No I do not bounce for this establishment, Heck I keep the bouncers gainfully employed.
Anyway they are calling for a wicked Nor'Easteron Sunday so ye it's good to be dockside.
Lars: Read your comment regarding Christmas Cards... Unfortunately I am an "offender in that regard As I was never one to get round to it or have the ability to sit down and do it. I have to say thios is one year that if I was doing it the time would not be available as I am way behind the ! Normally i am the "Tim Allan" of the street when it comes to decorating the house and it is normally done by the end of November. No such luck! I wan't suppose to make the November trip but it was "suggested" that it would be in my best interests to do the trip and hone my "command skills". So here I be! Yes a learning curve it was and no I don't regret it.
Peter: I stay dry when I'm at sea in other words "Not a dram will touch these mine lips while we are away from the wharf". Come on Wednesday and Crew Change.
Anyway we are hauling apart one of our ALCOs for inspection and refit so I will try o get a few pics if anyone is interested.
Well thanks for the scoff
later all
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!!
Ruth my deAH, finally back at the bar without difficulty! Yesterday was a nightmare. Anyway, good to see your beautiful ‘n smiling face - makes a man happy to be alive! <blush>
A round for da boyz - treats for da crittAHs - PPF for Boris ‘n the change is YOURS!
Good to see some activity again from Pete - Sven - Rob ‘n Eric! Sorry to learn that our Swede in the sandbox (Eric) is still having bouts of discomfort. Too bad your episode may have interfered with any celebration of the "holiday." <groan>
Sven - it isn't difficult to recognize who Da Bossman is! He's the guy keeping this site moving forward! He's siberiamo (Tom) . . .
Note to the IRREGULARS - it's TIME for youse guyz to step up to the plate! We're really in need of an infusion of some support. So where in is PER (marthastrainyard) - Dan (DL-UK) - ‘n a couple of others who've pretty much disappeared on us ovAH time
WANTED: REGULARS at the bAH!
Let me get straight to the covAHs for this day . . . then I'm OFF ‘n runnin' - really on a tight one!
Ok - here's my NEW book covAH selection from the Larsman Mobile . . . enjoy you precious few!
Grand Central Terminal - New York City
Chicago Union Station
Union Pacific & Omaha Union Station
Railroad Depots of Minnesota
Railroad Depots of North & South Dakota
Until the next time!
Lars
Friday's Grin
Variation Law: If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will start to move faster than the one you are in now.
Yeah buddy! It's Friday ‘n that means a couple of days OFF for <many> ‘round here. Before heading off to the grind, check out the pastries in The Mentor Village Bakery case - the offerings on our Menu Board for <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts, ‘n of course the freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee in the urns <regular> ‘n <unleaded>!
Seeing how it's Friday, it's time for a few contributions to the "Our" Place Warehouse of Wondrous Forgotten Technologies and Skills. (WWFTS)! <grin>
78 rpm records! <uuuuuuuuh, what's "rpm" ‘n whats "records"
. . . Tuning "eyes" on radios.
. . . . . . Galoshes with metal "clasps."
. . . . . . . . . Skate keys.
Wednesday - Dec 12th:
Sven (Sven Olov) at 9:29 AM: You did it! Your WP prepared submission "made it" just fine.
Lars is correct - we did in fact discuss St. Lucia Day back on Nov 30th, Page 147 by Eric - Moi ‘n Lars . . . BUT thanx for the input!
Lars (LoveDomes) at 1:14 PM: It surely gets exasperating to try, try ‘n try again <to no avail> in order to get to this place. <ugh> Greatly appreciate your visit ‘n not to worry - we'll keep things going ‘til those Gremlins find greener pastures!
Rob (trolleyboy) at 2:34 PM ‘n 2:59 PM: A couple of visits from our Resident Ontario Connection, who seems to be "back in the saddle again" <Roy Rogers!>.
A good read <again> on the Booze Line material.
With Wolfman being away ‘til Monday - ANY help ‘round here is a definite PLUS. He's been a mid-late afternoon arrival . . .
Pete (pwolfe) at 4:21 PM: A fine elaboration on MAGLEV in the UK. Always good to have first-hand info rather than the anecdotal . . . or some error-laden internet sources.
A "qualifier" to a return trip to ExpoRail with you - leave the "black bag" in the trunk of the car!
A fine link to the Foxfield Railway - nice bar!
And for more fotos from Alan!
Sven (Sven Olov) at 7:31 PM: A getting-to-know you better infusion from our newly arrived Swede from ‘somewhere' in the U.S. But WAIT! You mentioned the Twin Cities - so may we presume you are in Minneapolis-St. Paul Perhaps we can refer to you as our Resident Twin Cities Swede! Does that "work" for you
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!Leon, it is a perfect time for Rumpsteak Café de Paris! A cold Keith's please!A not so good evening last night so I stayed away, but now I am back. 153 days until the 3rd Annual Rendezvous!Rob – Always interested in airplanes. Interesting to see the ME109 with a Daimler-Benz engine! Is the Niagara Falls Airshow an annual event? Starfighter is another one of my favorites! Thanks for the info on the ALCO AC’s! The Booze Line! Interesting story about a little known road! The St Thomas station building was/is really something else! Tom – Congratulations! You just won free drinks at the Bar for the rest of this year by knowing that my photo was from the X2000 excursion!!! It’s all on me! Cindy is also entitled to free drinks!Perfect with a Lionel ad at Christmastime!! Very nice catalogs, too bad I can’t open them. Same about the Railroad Magazine! One thing I have noticed looking at the Railroad Magazine, the pictures on their front page really had very few details, but still interesting to study. Lars – The cold weather continues! Ice on the car roof and windshield two mornings in a row! Time to move to a warmer place? I found some interesting info checking those American Flyer catalogs. The new Electronic Propulsion locomotive! Why was it necessary to go to reverse if you were going to continue in a forward direction after a stop? It doesn’t make sense to me, but what do I know? Sven – I am looking foward to more stories! I don’t have any problems living with v and w mixed up every now and then! As usual every year this date, Dec 13, I am checking news about the Santa Lucia celebration in Sweden! It is something very special! Train numbers? Westbound trains have odd numbers, eastbound trains have even numbers.Pete – It’s amazing how shiny No 850 Lord Nelson is! It looks very nice! Nice paint job!Are you planning a future trip with the Empire Builder? Beautiful trip, especially when you get to the mountains! Maybe a Packer’s game would be a good idea for a mini rendezvous!? I have been to Green Bay but never to a game. Did all locomotives in the UK have a white roof if and when they pulled a Royal Train? Quite a few small saddle tank locomotives from Allan! You asked Sven what a lokomotor is. A lokomotor is a small (max 400 hp) diesel engine like the one in this picture.Class Z65. Ron – Good to see you again! It seems like Santiago isn’t a good place to take a walk. Is that where your wife is now, or did she just visit the city? I am sure you will figure out something to buy for her! I think Maglev is too expensive kind of future transportation. Regular high speed trains is a cheaper alternative. But Maglev has its advantages! I am sure your loco will have enough power to pull more than one passenger.
Hope to see you again soon!!
Good evening Leon. Yes I do sound better, but thanks for asking.I see that Pete's been about and restocked the ole beer fridge so I think I shall partake. A Rickard's Red sir if you please.
Pete-Ah so by dropping off the saturday pictures and restocking on thrusday night you seem to think you can have the weekend off. Hmmm did the manager or dabossman say you could enquiring former employees want to knowAt any rate the beer fridges are well stocked and well chilled so high marks for that. I think I may actually grab some of H&H's fish fry as well.
I think several swordfish are still servicable, last I heard there were a couple in California of all places.I would think with them being a fabric covered byplane that they would be alot easier to maintain than a full metal higher performance aircraft,just a thought. I need to get you upto warplane , even better if the day you come up the Lanc is due to fly, it truly does sound like a squadron of spitfires taking off.
Great pictures from Allan , I've said it before but it is very nice to see that many steam locomotives still operating and even more incredible them all being in teh same place at teh same time.
I don't know if the two Walkers are related.The could well be , as Hiram did come to Canada from Britain , and I understand that he was a brewer to start with,not unlike Alexander Keith when he came over. The renovations are still ongoing at the MCRR building.The usueal beurecratic red tape , that and CN is still in the process of removing the old freight yards and cleaning up the grounds which are one large brownfeild ( heavily contaminated ) all that has to be done before human habitation can be allowed, re- much more millions need to be earmarked.
Give me enough warning Pete and I'll help you look for that new book at Exporail. Mind you I think we should bring Tom along as an interpreter.
Sven-Nice to see you in again this evening. Thanks for sharing the info on the railways and their numbering system over in Sweden.I'm sure Eric will pick up where you left off.I'm impressed as always by the foreward thinking of the European countries , which have had the foresight to keep the railways electrified for the most part. Over here we had long ago removed the once extensive electric railway networks in favour of the conventionally powered one's. I look forward to more interaction with you in the comming months
G' Eve, Leon the Night Man, Let me introduce myself, as I have not had the pleasure of meeting you earlier. I am Sven Da Svede , one of many Scandihoovians that frequent this grandiose establishment. (By the way, my e-mail address is also SvenDaSvede@aol.com)
I would like a bottle of Roth beer. I, like Snoopy, the dog that was born here in the Twin Cities, like to quaff a Roth beer in the evening. We had our Christmas party at work today, so I am filled up, and skipping the chow.
Lars, sorry I missed the Lucia discussion earlier. I am just starting to learn the ropes. How many months do you give a newcomer to get acquainted with the equipment, get the proper line knowledge, and learn the safety rules, before you give up on him and give him the pink slip? I'll be sure to lift my hand to the bill of my uniform cap next time I meet Da Bossman. Thank you for the reminder, Lars.
Rob, and Pete, you mentioned 4711. I know it is an engine here, but it again opens up another memory file in my upper compartments. In Sweden all trains had /has a number, different for different categories of train and odd numbers Southbound, even number going Northbound, (help me Eric, how was it again with East and West?). Anyhow, I made a stint at the freight barn in my hometown Örebro. In the middle of the night we had a freight train with express freight coming in to be unloaded, and reloaded. The lines were electrified, like most main lines in Sweden. But they ended at the door to the freight barn. At approach, the engineer adjusted the speed, took down the electric bow, and rolled in to a stop - most of the time before he hit the concrete at the end of the track in the barn. Then when the freight was taken care of, a lokomotor (small diesel powered switcher - there you have the explanation for LOKOMOTOR - Pete) pulled out the freight on the line under the electric cable again.,and on it went. Why did I tell this? Oh, yes, now I remember. The number of that daily freight express train was 4711. It was also called "The Perfume", as 4711 was the name of a very famous French Eau De Cologne at that time.
There is another workday tomorrow. I still have to walk the dogs, and do some chores. The alarm - in shape and sound of a steam engine starts hooting, whistling, and puffing at 4AM tomorrow. The night will be too short.
Leon, nice meeting you, and thank you for listening so patiently.
Sven
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Winters Ale please RUTH.
RON Sorry you wont be able to visit the bar as often, but you will be welcome when you can get to call in.
It is sad about the crime situation in Santiago it surely will do a lot of damage to the tourist trade there.
As TOM says the first public Maglev ran in the UK, it was between Birmingham International Airport to the nearby railway station that was built to serve the airport and the National Exhibition Centre across the tracks from the airport. The Maglev ran for quite a few years and I have ridden it a few times. It remained out of use and a bus connection ran between the station and the airport it was inconvenient as involved steps to get to the booking office at the station. The structure of the Maglev was used for the cars that run today, they are hauled by cables. Two cars run and it is a very useful link and seems very reliable.
May I wish you a safe and happy holiday time too.
SVEN It seems the ‘test' was a success.
Many thanks for the link to the Gavle Railroad Museum it looks a great place. I found the page with the items of rolling stock in the museum it is very impressive. I guess that Anglok is steam locomotives and electric and diesels but I was wondering what the Lokomotors are. I see there are a couple of British manufactures in the steam locomotive section.
That is a very interesting link to St Lucia, thanks for sharing.
LARS Thanks for the drink. Sorry you are having problems with the forum, yesterday while doing my post the whole page disappeared, good old WP saved the day.
Hope you can get your Photobucket to behave itself so we can enjoy the bookcovers from the Larsman Mobile.
ROB Real glad you are getting over that cold and can enjoy your two days off, it is surprising what H&H's ministrations can do.
As you say 4711 was ahead of her time but I bet a lot of knowledge was into AC traction motors was gained from her.
In Britain when the diesels came in and steam was being phased out, the fireman were called ‘Second Man and then Driver's Assistants on the diesels and electrics. Today though, nearly all the trains are single manned.
I agree we should be very grateful there are still two Lancasters flyable, so folks can still enjoy the marvelous sight and sound of them in flight.
Many years a go I saw a Swordfish in flight, I don't suppose there are any airworthy today.
Great to read the ‘Booze Line' again. I wonder if Hiram Walker was any relation to the Johnnie Walker's Whisky in Scotland. Have you heard any more about the MCRR/CASO station that was going to be renovated into condos, but keeping the façade since the original post. Many thanks for sharing.
TOM Glad you enjoyed those steam locomotive photos.
I think we will have to go back to ExpoRail so I can get another guide, thanks for the name and the ISBN number, I will look it up on the web.
The bride did drive back from Green Bay to here in a day but it was a long drive, we were going to have a night in a campsite in Illinois but the weather turned bad with heavy rain so we kept going.
Thanks for the comparison between the Lionel and American Flyer model trains. I know exactly what you mean by "Not quite there" even on full size locomotives in preservation a small detail can make one think that is not quite right. I suppose it is the same over here but in the UK the detailing on models today compared to the 1950s and 60s is remarkable.
That TV program must have been on before 1987 as I can remember the St Louis team. Thanks for the info.
Another great set of Classic Covers, although I guess it would take a lot more than a nickel to own those magazines today. I think the December Trains 1951 is my favorite one this week, with the steam local stopping to pick up a Christmas tree while the diesel hauled express passes on the bridge. I would like to read the 1943 issue with the cab-forward on the cover about the past and present engine cabs it is a pity the modern day magazines don't
. Hey Ruth I'm back again , I think someone may have drank my beer on me. Yes Boris I know I did but <sheesh> Is there anyway we can get him to learn and understand, what is and what isn't a figure of speech Oh well another round of Keith's Ruth please. Here's a pull back from the old bar for everyone to take a peek at.
CLASSIC STEAM #19 THE BOOZE LINE
This piece came originally from page 289 of the old bar.
In 1856 American distiller Hiram Walker arrived on the Canadian side of the Detroit River and began making wisky, an operation that would eventually become one of Canada's largest and prolific distilleries.Around his distillery Walker laid out a planned community called Walkerville ( still survibes today as a herritage part of the city of Windsor Ontario ). By the 1880's the townsite had become one of Ontario's best planned and laid out communities.With attractive hotels,banks and brick homes for the plant workers and their families. Walkers own company office was so ornate and well built that it survives still today as a designated herritage building.
Along with the community there was a railway station. In 1885 Walker brought into operation the Lake Erie and Detroit River Railway ( LEDR ). Not only was it intended to bring in the raw material for the plant from the surrounding farmlands south of Windsor, but to export both the finished products but to export local cattle and lumber products as well to the US .At first the line crossed only Essex County, reaching the city of Leamington in 1889. But so great was the demand by the municipalites further east for railway connections, that by 1895 theb road was extended all the way to St Thomas. Here it met the Canada Southern one of the NYC's Canadain Subsidiaries giving the LEDR and the communities it served connections to Toronto and Buffalo as well as the the city of London.Then station the railways met at was the huge MCRR/CASO station that was built 20 yeasr before. It still exists today and has renovations schedualed to turn it's interior into condos and boutiques, but maintaining it's classic facade as it to is a herritage building.
From St Thomas, the LEDR had hoped to aquire the existing London and Port Stanley RR which would give them cross Lake Erire access to Ohio, and the coal trade the L&PS brought into London. However the City of London dithered so long over walker's offer that the LEDR took over the smaller Erie and Huron Railway with it's Lake erie port at Erieau. This route though longer gave the LEDR access to the US through Cahtham and Sarnia.
At Erieau the LEDR built a large coaling facility and then entered the tourist business by adding to steam excursion boats, the Shenango and the Urania.These two vessels operated between Cnneaut Ohio and Erieau Ontario bringing tourists to stay at the popular Bungalo and Lakeview Hotels ( also owned by the LEDR ).With room for 200 guests the Bungalo Hotel was the areas best aand grandest,it unfortunatly burned to the ground in 1912, and was never rebuilt. In 1972 the Erieau section of te LEDR was the first portion of the line to be abandonned and pulled up.
Most of the stations along the line were small unassuming wooden buildings of similar style. The stations at Wheatly and Leamington were given octagonal towers above the bay windows whlie the station at walkerville was a large two story stone box.
South western Ontario's main railway rivalries did not invlove Canadian owned railways but American ones. In 1904 to compete more aggressivly against the American Owned ( NYC ) Canada Southern ( Caso ), the Pere Marquette Railway took over the LEDR and operated it until 1951 when tthe Pere Marquette itself became part of the C&O, and now the CSX.
For most of the roads route it gained it's business from the feed mills and grain elevators which were located next to most of the little train stations along the line. Some fish from Lake Erie was handled from the towns of Wheatly and Kingsville.While most of the lines business served the in and outs at the distillery itself ( still a major shipper for CSX today ).
Gradually, trucking has taken up the smaller industries along the LEDR's mainline.Between 1992 and 1996 nearly the entire line between St Thomas and Walkerville was abandonned and lifted. The only track today is in Windsor running between the CN and CP to move the distilleries production,and in Blenheim were grain is still moved north along the old Erie and Huron trackage and connecting to the petro chemical plants of the CSX's Sarnia division.
Good afternoon folks.I'm just sitting here watching the snow tumble down, a nice steady "big fluffy" kind. The sort that would make even Boris run outside to make snow angels things .
Well Ruth , thanks to teh various mustard plasters ( at least that's what they called them )I think H&H's ministrations have put thise cold into a decline ( I hope )So with that said I think a Keith's and a generous round for those wishing to partake , natural mentor spring water,(yes Boris I know it comes from the hose behind your shed, we just can't have nice things around here without you stating the obvious can we ) for those not wishing a round of the "good" stuff.
Sven-Nice to see you catching on to the swing of things here at the ole tavern. I'd love to swap stories and chat about adventures in the air with you. thanks for that neat link to the museum as well.
Pete-Yes you photographed a rock star of sorts <grin>The 4711 was I suppose just a bit ahead of it's time , still it allowed some real world experiance with what is now becomming the"new" techknowlogy of teh raillway world. The main spotting feature that differs it from it's M636 sisters are the wing like radiator extensions on the rear of the locmotive , they stick further out than those of the normal DC locomotives, they are noit as big as those on the modern GE's but they are similar.
Nice shots of that preserved steamer , thanks for sharing it.I imagine that the engine cleaners were the starting point for most railway workers. Like in "Jolly Old " the engine wipers and then the fireman postions were the first to be removed once the major railways went from steam to complete diesel locomotive power.
Yes isn't that amazing only two of the thousands of Lancs are still fliable,the one here and the other at the Battle of Britain Memorial flight in the UK. There are many others at musuem's or on poles on parade grounds etc,still two's better than none.
Ron-Sad to hear that you won't be with us often , but it's nice to know that you intend to pop by on occation. As Lars said we'll make sure that Boris keeps the stool polished for you.
Tom-Great looking magazine covers today.I was looking back over the photo's from Rendezvous 1 , we did get some good shots both in TO and at the various and sundry museum's I dragged you guys to.It was a good time , too bad we didn't have more bodies but c'est la vie .I have today and tomorrow off to re-cooperate.( actually I'm just off a seven on strait scheduale so they are giving me two off to relax and refit )So I hope to provide alittle extra support here , save any comp-gremlins getting in the way.
A sloooooooooow day 'n seems like a bit of on-line problems for our Manager - maybe others
Anyway, great to see Sven back again - "mastered" the WP Posting Technique (WPPT) <grin>
Here's a little something to keep things movin' on this rather gloomy day in mid-continent USA where the temps are dropping 'n some snow called for on Saturday!
Now Arriving on Track #1
A Nickel's Worth of Classic Covers!
Number Five
(1) RR Magazine - 1952 - Idaho's Panhandle Pike
(2) RR Magazine - 1951 - December Trains
(3) RR Magazine - 1942 - The Speedy Future of Railroading
(4) RR Magazine - 1943 - Engine Cabs
(5) RR Magazine - 1952 - The Top Banana Line
Missed any
#1 . . . Page 117
#2 . . . Page 123
#3 . . . Page 135
#4 . . . Page 145
Ruth my deAH, A mugga Joe with a jolt will do for me as the weather continues to <gloom> around here. <barf> Supposed to get worse B4 it gets bettAH. <arrrrgggghhhh> Anyway, your radiance takes away the <dark> ‘n replaces it with <light>! <blush>
A round for the boyz - treats for the crittAHs - a small jar of PPF for Boris ‘n the change is YOURS!
Don't know WHY - don't know HOW - but I've been unable to get on the forums for about 3 hours then all of a sudden . . . <groan>
So we'll be experiencing yet another change in attendees at the bar, huh Well it isn't as if we haven't gone through this a few more times than not ‘round here. One day I'll have to compile a list of the guys who used to be (UTB's as Da Bossman calls ‘em). I recall that my "bookend BK" did one of those some time ago . . . thing is, a few still frequent the forums, but not here. Figger that one out, mates - I can't!
Best to you down there in Ole Mississip, Ron - we'll keep a place for you at the bar. At least you didn't just up ‘n disappear as so many others have, without so much as a fair thee well. Speaks highly of you! Chalk me up as not understanding your comments about emails . . . I haven't sent any - recently. Anyway, it's been a pleasure.
Good hearing from Rob - Pete ‘n Sven again! Have a nog on me . . .
Sven - check back on the most recent pages ‘n you'll see where we discussed the Saint Lucia Day . . . Best to ALWAYS recognize Da Bossman! <uh oh>
Sorry guys, but I can't log onto photobucket right now either . . . So if there's time later on, I'll try to get some covAHs posted . . .
"This is a test, This is only a test" I am writing in Word, and will copy it into the reply box. Thus it will be short, if it does not work, I will not loose too much.
Morrn' Ruth, I'll have some strong Swedish Gevalia coffee, if you have, and a "Lussekatt - saffrans bulle".
Gevalia coffe is from the Swedish town of Gävle, where also the largest railroad museum in Sweden is located.
http://www.banverket.se/en-gb/Swedish-Railway-Museum/Huvudrubriker/About-Banverket-Telenet/Visit-Gavle-2.aspx
Today, December 13, one of the darkest days of the year, the Swedes celebrate Lucia, the Saint of Light
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Lucia_Day
I'll stop here for now, move this over, and see what happens.
Herr Wurlitzer <juke box>
It's here! The day before Friday has arrived <grin> ‘n time again to check out our Menu Board for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast. Draw a mugga freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee ‘n a grab a couple of pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery while your order is being prepared!
Coal Scuttle <holds the quarters for Herr Wurlitzer!>
Pete (pwolfe) at 5:17 PM: Anyone who finds fault with steam locomotives that are in color should take a close look at those Brit Beauties ‘n tell us WHY Great looking paint jobs, fer sure, fer sure!
Memo to file: Wonder when Wolfman will communicate with ExpoRail to find out HOW he can obtain a replacement copy of the "guide book" that got <gobbled up> in that "black bag" of his By the by, the name of it is, "Portrait Collection - ExpoRail, the Canadian Railway Museum," ISBN 2-9804089-1-3. <English language version>
By the by, the name of it is, "Portrait Collection - ExpoRail, the Canadian Railway Museum," ISBN 2-9804089-1-3. <English language version>
Yeah, a trip up to Green Bay 'n the RR museum would be fun ‘n not a bad place for a mini-Rendezvous. Could be done in a long day's drive from here . . . but NOT in winter! Something to think about for a before or after Rendezvous III event . . . hmmmmm.
Going to be a bit odd to see those VIA Rail F40s in any color scheme other than what they've had for all these years . . . Wonder how long it will take for the model RR industry to catch up with the changeover My inventory of 'em now stands at 7.
That's a super-fine Hornby model Pacific loco ‘n tender - just crying out for a LAYOUT!
Regarding the American Flyer 'n Lionel trains of "back in the day": I always liked the looks of the AF moreso than Lionel, in spite of my having the latter. As a kid the rivalry was unbelievable between those of us who had either. "Lionel is best - no American Flyer - no Lionel . . . . " and on it would go. In the late 40s into the early 50s, I had to admit <to myself> that the AF trains really did look more realistic. Lionel <0-27) were just too "stubby" - nice stuff, but not quite 'there' if you follow my drift. Anyway, the AF steam locos were great with those "white walls," 'n their Alco PA diesels were unrivaled in my OH-PIN-YUN. Can't add much more after that period - for it was on to a military career with electric trains relegated to memory.
Yeah, that AF catalog cover really does "say it all," eh
Regarding the NFL Cardinals 'n Rams - the teams didn't change names. The St. Louis Cardinals moved to the Phoenix area after the 1987 season - and the Rams moved here from Los Angeles (actually Anaheim) in 1995. The St. Louis Cardinals previously had been in Chicago as the Cardinals - they played in St. Louis 1960-1987.
Another fine inclusive offering from our Bar Chandler along with a ROUND!
Cashinator <cash register at "Our" Place>
Ron (DD1) at 7:08 PM: A surprise visit from our Southern Mississippi Gentleman . . . good to see ya again!
Sorry to learn that you'll be spending less time with us . . . but it all boils down to using one's time the way one wants ‘n needs to use it.
You're welcome ‘round here . . . but as you know, without keeping up with the "flow" of conversations going on, it may be difficult to "jump in" from time to time. Anyway, you've pretty much been an "irregular regular," so unless you tell us otherwise, that's what you'll be . . .
Not sure I follow what you mean regarding the Emails you're receiving. From the bar??? Not from Moi. Anyway . . .
Appreciate the run down on what's happenin' down there in your part of the world. Far too hot 'n humid for my likes, but we've talked about that in the past, eh <grin>
Has a month nearly passed since your bride departed for places far away
Amazing how being retired can be pretty much like a full time job, eh
MAGLEV, a topic we've kicked around at the bar once or thrice . . . technology invented decades ago, but we're woefully remiss in utilizing it. <barf> Didja know that Great Britain was the first country to introduce MAGLEV trains in service back in the 1980s Apparently there were far too many technical issues 'n i
Good day Tom and all at the bar. A round of drinks if you please. Tom, I hope you survived the ice storms in your state. This is crazy weather. The temperatures here in Ms have been in the low 80's with lots of humidity. It really feels like summer. I have to change shirts two or three times a day. I haven't been able to visit lately due to all the obligations that keep me busy between family matters to paying bills, grocery shopping. Fixing my truck, kitchen cabinets, etc. I've also sort of run out of steam. Researching information on the web is taking too much of my time and so I need to back off a bit. Don't give up completely on me, but don't expect me to drop in on a regular basis. About all the time I get is to read the E-mails that come to me from "Classic Trains". I wish I had more time. I see you have a new visitor, Sven Olov. He sounds like the right kind of guy for "Our place". The Swedes certainly have a great knowledge of railroads and are an asset to "Our place".
The wife is still in Chile, but will be back on the 18th. She has concluded her business there and is taking in a little R&R. She tells me the crime situation is bad in the capital city of Santiago. It is not safe to go out. They recognize you either as a tourist or just from somewhere else and target you. The crime is non violent. Purse snatching, wristwatch and jewelry snatching is about the worst there. Even though she was born and raised in Chile and speaks the language, the street people can spot her a mile away. I guess by the way she is dressed and by mannerisms picked up in the U.S. She says she can't wait to come back to the good old U.S. of A.
I went and did a little Christmas shopping the other day. I'm still trying to figure what to get for the wife.
The brakes on my truck went out and my son said he would fix them. He is trying to drum up some business for his trucking and hauling business. His truck is finally in good condition after all the work he has put into it. Maybe this coming year will be good to him.
The loco model is coming along. Slowly, but surely. Just received more parts from Mc Master-Carr. Nuts, bolts, metals, etc. I believe Allan asked me about the wood I'm using. I mill all the wood myself from hard and soft woods. So far, I've had to buy two sheets of plywood. The rest of the materials, I got from a local cabinet shop. I got a 24V motor from a scooter, complete with sprockets and chain. It will fit perfectly. The completed loco should have enough power to transport a passenger. The only real problem I've come up against is humidity. Some of the wood parts that require sliding fits are affected by changes in humidity. That is one thing I have to address and resolve. If the loco was in a controlled environment (like the house), no problem, but if I want it to operate outdoors, some redesign may be necessary.
After looking at all the E-mails, you guys are doing a first class job of coming up with great pictures. I liked the catalog covers of Lionel and American Flyer, the 0-4-4-0T engine. (I'm especially interested in odd-looking equipment).
I learned that Shanghai, China has the first maglev train in operation. Although they were the last to build steam engines, it appears, from what I've heard, they have abandoned steam altogether and embraced the latest technologies. There are several maglev projects (studies) presently going on in the U.S. It doesn't look too promising, except for the Philadelphia one which will connect to the airport. Right now, getting to and from the airport is a real hassle, which a maglev seems to be the perfect answer. High-speed trains may be a more promising answer to maglev because the right-of-way is already in place. The nice thing I heard about maglev, is it can negotiate 10% grades at top speed, something that suits our hilly terrain.
A pint of Winter Ale please RUTH.
ALLAN We got off light compared to others quite near here with the ice storm luckily.
Glad you liked the photo of 60009 and the link to Flying Scotsman, it is hard to believe if Mr. Peglar had not bought Scotsman from BR there would not be an A3 saved today, I believe that there was not a plan by the authorities to save Flying Scotsman so, arguably the most famous steam locomotive could have been just a memory, unbelievable.
I talked to Alan yesterday and he was trying to convince me to go on the three A4s trip, sorely tempted.
ROB I hope to cold gets better soon. Hope Lars doesn't find out RUTH you and the ‘recovery room' and H&H can get mighty jealous too.
It was the same in Britain, anyone who wanted to be an engine driver started at a young age as a engine cleaner gradually working the way up as fireman through the links to driver and back up through the links as a driver. I guess towards the end of steam there was no cleaners employed as they had enough fireman and drivers to take over on the diesels and electrics. Luckily I can remember when most steam locomotives on passenger workings were in a fairly clean condition with some steam sheds doing a better job then others. A clean Great Western engine looked a picture with the polished copper and brass work, although I recall the Bushbury (Wolverhampton) shed turned out the Ex LMS Jubilees in marvelous condition. Today's preserved steam locos are usually in superb condition.
A Great Western 'Hall' class in preservation days.
Suthern Railway(BR) No 850 Lord Nelson after a recent overall with a great paint finish on the locomotive
Those PAs did look great in that D&H livery.
Many thanks for the photos of those historic and classic aircraft. I did not realize that there are only two Lancasters flyable today. The people who keep these great aircraft operable deserve a great deal of credit, in my opinion.
I did not realize that CP 4711 was a locomotive with a past when I took the photo (I have lost my guide book) many thanks for the info on it, it sounds as though there was a lot of problems with the control system
ERIC Too right about the Penthouse Suite, being banned means I don't have to cart that expensive wine etc up the stairs.
Thanks for the info on the Minot photo, I like to find out where the fueling stops are on the long distance Amtrak, as it seems those are the only places where one can get off the trains for a few minutes.
Another Packers fan. I see Tom would like to see a Packers game, it would be a great place for a fall mini rendezvous, and I will put a bit more about Green Bay in Toms post.
Many thanks for the photo of the Pacific Electric locomotive.
LARS Well said indeed about TOM.
I must agree with you about the e-mails, although I am this side of the ‘pond' I still send Christmas Cards to England.
Many thanks for the American Flyer catalogs from the Christmas Annex. I think that 1946 one is one of the best I have seen; to me it captures how we felt as youngsters seeing a rare steam locomotive.
SVEN AWK spends the Friday nights in the bar with the track gang so his vocabulary is quite extensive. If you burp at the bar, blame BORIS, that's what I do.
I am fairly new to computers, now I write the post to the bar on the Word Processor with Our Place on another window and go between the two, after reading the posts. Tom advised me to use word as I kept losing posts. I keep it in word until it has been transferred and on the Our Place page. I am sure Tom will explain this clearer than me.
Looking forward to more of your stories.
TOM Thanks for the link to re-building of the Via Rail F40s, surely the green and yellow livery will be better than the ‘Spiderman' one.
Very much agree with your Editorial Comment to CM3.
They are saying we may get a bit of snow toni
Getting a leg up on the acknowledgments - never know what the 'morrow may bring!
Wedensday - Dec 12th:
Lars (LoveDomes) at 9:26 AM: Don't know WHAT we'd do without your steady participation ‘round here - seems that the morning "slot" - if not for you - has been pretty much ZILCH for weeks. BUT, "we takes what we gets" at the Saloon by the Siding! <grin>
Many thanx for the additional toy train catalog covers for our OPTIONAL Toy ‘n Model Trains Day! American Flyer ‘stuff' was top shelf, eh
Believe it or not - we've experienced similar <gaffs> when it comes to being considerate of others - only to have ‘em pretty much blow it off. Such is life - ‘n in my OH-PIN-YUN becoming more commonplace. <barf> Hell, I'm STILL waiting for some people to get around to even acknowledging that they received gifts from us for LAST Christmas! What's that saying You can pick your nose, but not your relatives!
Appreciate the visit - covers ‘n round!
Rob (trolleyboy) at 11:16 AM: A visit from our Resident Ontario Connection, still suffering the effects of a lingering cold. Hanging ‘round H&H isn't gonna do anything for you other than wear you down even moreso. <uh oh>
The EMD E8A units I purchased for my Can-Am display case (and occasional commemorative runs on the layout) were made by Rivarossi. While the models are rather accurate ‘n good looking, they made BOTH A units for the CP <maroon & grey> the same road numbers! <arrrrrggggghhhhh> Haven't a clue why they did that. They also failed to put the "beaver" herald on the nose . . . yeah I know, both situations could be remedied. However, that's NOT my "thing" ‘n the last thing I want or need to do is mess up some fine looking models.
Oh yeah, I was wrong, wrong, wrong regarding my CPR <action red> locos - they are NOT EMD E8s - they are an F7A ‘n F7B . . . different numbers ‘n don't look all that bad <made by Athearn>.
Thanx for the additional insights regarding those CP EMD E8s . . .
No problems with the war plane fotos - brought back some good thoughts about Rendezvous I ‘n our visit to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum!
Didn't know Ruth even had an interest in the H&H "gals" - she's pretty much avoided ‘em since YOU dumped dropped them off here.
Thanx for the visit ‘n chat! [tup[
Sven (Sven Olov) at 1:10 PM: Back again ‘n this time with a Post that has all the appearances of one being a "vet" at this Watering Hole by the Wayside! Nicely done, Sir!
Oh yeah, you totally missed the Proprietor! <groan> BUT, I'm very accustomed to that - we've witnessed those kinds of things pretty much since the bar opened up on April 12th, 2005. Such is life behind the bar . . .
I'm unaware of any "down ‘n dirty" method for the preparation of responses <inclusive Posts> - but I can tell you that I use the "2 windows method." And by the by, strongly suggest you prepare any Posts on a word processor program, for the Forum's Gremlins have been known to <gobble> up submissions - never to be seen again. <arrrrrrggggghhhh> Most unsettling to lose a Post that took "forever" to prepare. Using the WP <saving frequently> at least gives one a chance to try again.
The BEST way to keep up with what's going on ‘round here is to acquaint yourself with who the customers are - read my daily summary ‘n also review some past Pages. Maybe take 4 or 5 a day or even a week. I've found that working backwards - from most current to older - somehow "works" better. Screwy, but effective!
Another thought - you may want to add some "info" to your profile (time zone, for example, will have the Posts reflected for the area you reside in) - also geographic location - where are you We like to make reference to our customers - as you've probably noticed - by "Resident - - - - Connection" and so forth. And finally, recommend you create an Email account just for the Forums, so that if any one wants to communicate with you off-line, they can. We have an off-line "net" in use right now . . . so in time, you may wish to be included in it.
Most - not all - of our crew have profiles that give a bit of info about themselves - helps in getting to know one another. Your choice of course.
Great to have you aboard ‘n I'm sure the guys have already taken a liki
Ruth, I am sorry I am late for breakfast. Had to walk the dogs first, and got carried away in the nice winterweather, 6F, and clear. Ayhow I really would liketo havea Belgian Waffel with whipped cream and strawberries for breakfast. Eh - make it two, so I can share with Awk.
Pete, Thank yoo for the warning. Will watch my fingers while sharing my food with Awk. How is Awk's vocabulary? Do I need to close my ears at times?
Ruth, can I have some change for the juke box, please. I see some good music in there, Railroad Classics with Wayne Erbsen. I think I'll choose the Wreck of old 97, and Wabash Cannonball.
Lars, Thanks for the photo of The Southern Crescent. On the photo I think I see three engine units. In my notes fron April 1977, I see I wrote it had four engines.
Rob, Greatly enjoyed the airplane photos. Spent sometime in my youth in and around smaller planes in Sweden, Klemm 35, Auster, DH Tiger Moth, Piper Tri-Pacer, andso on. Maybe some airborne stories later.
Eric, I'll share more stories later,when I get more used to this bar environment. I am sorry that there is no spell check. That means you have to live with me exchanging v for w and so on.
All others that I already have forgotten, I enjoyed all reading, but the capacity of the storage space on the hard drive in my brain is limited, and I have to get a techique to read all entries, and then remember them. Lars, how do you do it? Maybe I can open two windows sideby side. One where I read, and the other where I write. Is that doable?
Morning Ruth, I think a BK splash and a number three. Grandma always said feed a cold starve a fever. What Boris no it's a figure of speach you are quite correct colds and fevers are too small to have a mouth. <sheesh> By any chance do we have a Transylvainian/english dictionary around ? Ruth had mentioned that she set up a recovery room in the back for me ,which brightened my day until she lead me back there and my watering eyes discovered that she had staffed it with H&H instead of the ladies of perpetual motion.So if I survive their ministrations with the various tubes and bottles and what appear to be rattles,,,note to self do not seek pitty from Ruth unless you are Lars
Eric-The AC traction unit was an experament between them and CP rail. One C636 had it's 251 ebibe uprated to 4000hp making it a C640, the only production 4000hp unit from an Alco power unit. It also had first generation AC traction equipment installed,from what I understand there was mixed results , the wheel slip has horrendous and it was high miantenance as compared to the DC machines in the 630/636 series.Pete posted a picture of it a while back the 4711 at exporail is just that critter. CP kept it in Montreal all it's service life using it as a tester and sometime cross town transfer locomotive.It's the reason CP took a long time to embrace AC traction in locomotives.Probably something in the range of 20 years, without looking it up the C640 was outshopped in late 75 or 76 , and the first AC powered GE's were bought in 1999.
Lars-I fine spate of Gilbert and American Flyer stuff sir 'm glad you set your son rightI can't believe that people will do that e -christmas , what's next an all electronic marriage and conference call weddings ? Ask me how a really feel about the "new" ways. Guess I'm a dinosaur,hey at least all we fossils are enjoying our limited "e-time" here together
I'm supprised that you've softened your stance on Pete and Eric , helping you out with your prize. Soooo Christmas and Ruth bring out the soft side of first mate Lars.
Also wow , with all the critters we have around here just a side note we are having a major meal spread out at treat time.On the upside the PPF Factory and Brine Emporium downtown is showing record profits, they may have to hire a second vat stir-er Most of your managers salery must be litterally and figurativly eaten up in critter treats.
Tom-Ah yes more grreat as Tony would say , Christmas catalogues, loved them.
The nice thing about your CP E8's is that you only have to buy three and you can have the whole roster, two if you model after 1976 as the 1802 was wrecked in a derailment.I think teh only reason they were bought was to , have "pool" power with the B&M. They were bought for the International of Maine Division and were built in LaGrange. From what I understand the CP/B&M trains pooled power and cars, so CP bought the E's so that the returning crews had locomotives they were familiar with. Once the pool trains stopped they were stuck in commuter train servcie in Montreal until they were sold off to VIA in '77.I must say that they do not look at all good in VIA's blue and yellow paint job
Likely Shane can shed more light on the CP / B&M pool trains.
If you think Boris's surgical mask is "funny" check out the white patent leather "nurse" gear Ruth decked H&H out in. "Undt this vont hurt vun bitte,bit down of zis vile we "whip" up a tonic "
I figured I missed the boat on the 11th and Allan was waiting for a couple shots so what the heck, breaks up the monotony donchathink ?
Ruth my deAH, continued gloom weather wise, but bright ‘n sunny in the glow from you - ahhhhhhhhh! So, what for me but a mugga Joe with a jolt! Then set up the bar ‘n give Boris those treats for the crittAHs (all nicely depicted in Cap'n Tom's morning report!) ‘n that small jar of PPF when he's finished feeding ‘em! The change is for YOU!
Must make mention of the great effort put forth by our chief bar keep, owner-proprietor Cap'n Tom! Whether it's those "Now Arriving on Track . . . " specials, or just the routine manner in which you make sure all who participate get recognition, you are most deserving of these accolades. A hearty well-done to Da Bossman! And to think there are those who STILL cannot find it within themselves to provide so much as a token of recognition <not speaking of our present company!> . . . Well, here's mine! 5- Salute to our mentor ‘n leader - Cap'n Tom!
Enjoyed today's installment of Lionel 'n American Flyer catalog covAHs!
Really nice to view the comments from our friends from near ‘n far - Gunneral (Allan) down in New Zealand - EricX2000 (Eric) in the desert where it's been COLD <brrrr> - pwolfe (Pete) in frozen mid-Mizzou ‘n coalminer3 (CM3 Shane) in beautiful West Virginia's mountain country. Oooooops, can't forget trolleyMAN (Rob) up there in wet ‘n dank Ontario <grin> - sorry ‘bout that cold of yours! Great having you aboard. I also picked up on our sailor friend, Fergmiester (Fergie), reaching terra firma. have a round on ME!
Meant to pick up on the discussion over emails replacing the "written word" these days. One of my sons decided that he'd go "all email" for Christmas. No more postage stamps. Since that included his mother ‘n me it "set me off" just a bit. <grin> I gave him a sheet of Christmas postage stamps the other day. He's reconsidered in favor of sending us a card (don't know ‘bout the rest of his "list"). I honestly don't "get it" when it comes to this stuff . . . seems to be the "in thing" for the younger generations - and some older ones too.
A couple of years ago we were unable to attend the funeral of a former shipmate of mine. So we sent an appropriate floral array along with a card with a personal note of condolences. Response After a couple of weeks I received an email mentioning how "nice" it was for us to do what we did. <ugh> Says a lot in my not-so-humble opinion.
I'm on a short tether again today, but would like to recognize our Toy & Model Trains event for this Wednesday - so here they come from the Christmas Annex of the Larsman Mobile!
American Flyer Catalogs!
1946
1947
1948
1949
1950
1950 (2nd catalog)
Today is Wednesday, which means: OPTIONAL TOY 'n MODEL TRAINS DAY! here at the Saloon by the Siding . . .
Now Arriving on Track Number Two
Electric Trains at Christmastime
#2 - Lionel & American Flyer Catalogs
1949 Lionel Catalog
1950 Lionel Catalog
1953 Lionel Catalog
1951 American Flyer Catalog
1952 American Flyer Catalog
1953 American Flyer Catalog
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Missed the first one Check out Page 149 . . .
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