<personal foto>
This is ENCORE! Saturday - and - Photo Posting Day!
Remember: "Our" Place is CLOSED on Sundays.
Guten Morgen allersiets!
Wie ist jeder? Es is OKTOBERFEST! Partei wollen wir!
A beautiful fall day here in mid-continent USA with all kinds of outside activity being planned by my other half . . . <uh oh>
Best fill up the coffee mug, grab a few pastries 'n maybe order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast before things begin moving <like ME!>
Comments from the Proprietor:
Final OKTOBERFEST at "Our" Place today at noon!
We are featuring GERMAN brew all month!
GERMAN sausages have been added to the menu for the month, with all the trimmings!
On Saturday's in October The Mentor Village Teutonic Society will sponsor Oompah Music live at the "Our" Place picnic grounds Pavillion and Dance Emporium! Performers include the Sauerkraut Band, Electric Lederhosen and Burst the Wurst Trio
Lederhosen and Alpine hats are being worn by "Our Place"! staff throughout the month!
Full scale LGB trains will be running on the main lines for free round trips to Can-Am Gorge on weekends - 10 AM to 4 PM. First northbound departs the "Our" Place platform at 10 AM sharp, undt ve mean, sharp!
SHARE THIS FALL CELEBRATION WITH US!
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative)
Friday - 26 Oct 2007:
Jan (JanOlov) at 6:44 PM: PLEASE take the time to read my comments before this morning's summary and take appropriate measures to straighten up your Post.
IF there was a way to communicate with you by EMail <DIRECTLY> I would have done so.
Thanx!
Saturday - 27 Oct 2007:
Eric (EricX2000) at 2:26 AM: A rather early, early or late, late appearance by our Resident Nocturnal Desert Swede! Back to old habits, eh Well, no matter - it's good to see ya 'n apparently no worse for wear after game two of our Dart's Challenge 'n Grudge Match over at The Second Class Saloon.
Missouri IS hilly between St. Louis 'n KCity - however with just a few fotos in my spate of offerings I guess it's difficult to draw that conclusion. One gets much more "feel" for the topography when driving Interstate 70 between those locations - that is IF one has time to sightsee - far too much traffic, traveling much too fast! <ugh>
The 3 car train consist is pretty much the "norm," and has been for decades. In fact I recall when there were only 2!! More people board and disembark at Kirkwood than in downtown St. Louis. Jefferson City (state capital) is another major passenger location - the rest are so-so. Of course there are times during the year when exceptions to the "rule" are evident. Oktoberfest at Hermann usually draws a bunch of folks on the weekends - Amtrak puts on an extra coach for that. The August State Fair in Sedalia sometimes warants an extra car too. But for the most part - the cafe car 'n two coaches is "it"!
Nice trolley shot - is that lady any relation to the brunette you've been talking about Interesting street name!
Good luck tonite at game #3 here at "Our" Place . . .
Reminder: Cindy has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Saturday is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Dinner begins at 5 PM so come early ‘n often! C
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Auf Wiedersehen!
Tom
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STANDARDS at the BAR: In the nearly 3 years of operating this cyber tavern I haven't had to make a plea like the one to follow. However, a recent Posting has forced the issue.
PREFACE: We do NOT own this site nor are we paying for the use of it. Kalmbach has graciously provided one ‘n all the opportunity to browse and participate as they see fit. On each Forum Page you will see a Thread entitled Our forum policies, including no advertising (updated 05-24-07) by Bergie
Our forum policies, including no advertising (updated 05-24-07) by Bergie
Our forum policies, including no advertising (updated 05-24-07)
by Bergie
Everyone who frequents these Forums should read what the expectations and requirements are for us. In other words, READ the rules!
BAR DECORUM: We pride ourselves on being an adult cyber bar ‘n grill where good natured banter supplements the discussion of Classic Trains. It has been that way since April 12th, 2005 and until this joint shuts down, I intend to keep it that way.
Yes, as adults we get a bit "risky" with our discussions ‘n descriptions of this ‘n that. However, the line MUST be drawn when it comes to explicit photographs that one would NOT wish youngsters to view. In other words, "anything goes" does NOT go at this bar!
Also, the advertising of products within our submissions is NOT permitted either. So let's put a STOP to that as well!
This is not censorship so much as a call for sense of decency and use of common sense when it comes to monitoring our own actions at the bar.
Keep in mind that we are GUESTS on this Forum and as such have a choice, either abide by what the host requires, or go elsewhere.
Thanx for your understanding!
Proprietor of "Our" Place, an adult eating 'n drinking establishment!
Good morning Captain Tom and all the others!!
Where is Leon? At the Second Class Saloon!? Where is... hmm, at that other place I guess.
Geesh, my arm is aching. It was a tough struggle tonight! I have no clue who won, but it must have been our teams!! And today is the Grand Finale!
Tom – We were? Lars and I? Did we have fun? I really don’t remember.Thanks for the pictures from your trip! I actually believed it was a little bit more hilly through Missouri. More like in picture two in your fourth installment. It certainly was a short train you rode! And just a few passengers. Maybe more people traveling between St. Louis and Jefferson City than between Jefferson City and Kansas City? Lars – Oh, there you are! What happened last night? The only thing I can recall was when you tried to teach Ruth how to through the dart. Very strange way, to say the least! I was yodeling? I wondered where that noise came from. Interesting books! Canadian Pacific! I bet Tom likes the top one with all the snow!CM3 – Is that what they do? No wonder I couldn’t find any rule #53. I saw rule # 51 and the next one was #67! A very good report from the enemy’s camp! It is always good to know what they think (?) and plan. I just wish we had known it before the game last night. Or do I? So, the smell came from their uniforms? Could be, could be. But I think it was the roadkill. Who was killed? It must have been several days earlier considering the smell. JanOlov – Those smileys look like me in the rehab! You are safe as long as you are alert and don’t fall asleep when cleaning the bar. Manager Lars is not in a good mood right now after he learned about Ruth’s passion for streetcars. Hmmm, I don’t recognize those babes from last year! I wonder what happened? The last one looks like Ruth with a blonde wig! DL – I thought I had seen something similar to the ONR exTEE in pictures from Holland. To me that design is 100% Dutch (I may be wrong but I don’t care). Thanks for the TEE links! Pete – Streetcar #496 is from Melbourne, AUS! Built 1929 and retired 1984. More info on the link below.http://www.streetcar.org/mim/streetcars/fleet/antique/496/index.htmlHaving coffee in the middle of the dart contest was the right thing to do. Then I pretended I was leaving, saying I was going to the Second Class Saloon and I think it was their guy Lance who took off in that old model A and then he was gone for the rest of the night! Nice pictures from Railtown! You mention that “Lurking in a siding was another Shay”. Where is the other one?
Another Australian streetcar from Melbourne in Seattle 1993.
Eric
Greetings young Tom and fellow youths....
May I have a cold Guinness, top up with cigar for the lads please? Keep the change....
Honestly I was somewhere else....must have been my evil twinbrother that you've cought on tape and not me.... cough...cough....mmhmm....y-e-e-s-s-s...
Anyhoo, what would it take to make all this, well, disappear...? Wash your cars?Tom, great pics as always mate...! Might be a tiny wee bit off topic here, but does AMTRAK still have problems today? Just looking at the times that you posted....
pwolfe, Wouldn't mid to try some of the American small breweries.... When my dad worked in Stockholm, he sometimes brought beers of all kinds home, because there's a shop where you can buy beers from all over the world not too far away from where he worked...great pics!
I really like that streetcar in your pic, nice and classy!
And the steamers.....YUM!
I've seen those Swedish babes....doesn't this go under "cheating"?
G'day Gents!
Just to get a leg up on the Posts . . .
Lars (LoveDomes) at 8:16 AM: An early start for a guy who had such a HUGE nite out! Hmmmmm, my guess is you never hit the sack . . . for sleep that is! <uh oh>
Swedish yodeling!?!! I don't wanna know! <yikes>
Surprised - but pleased - that you were able to put those fine Canadian railway bookcovers together. Nice job!
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 9:50 AM & 10:30 AM: Two appearances, but THE "report" didn't come <yet> . . . ohhhhhhhhhhh well. I suppose it's being walked down the mountain, eh Not a problem, for those of us who were THERE know all about what transpired at the 1st nite of the Dart's Challenge ‘n Grudge Match! The rest of ya will just have to wait . . . <grin> <grimace> <groan>
Got a kick out of the Ace Reporter's offerings . . . with the promise of more coming keeping me <and others> on the edge of our seats. <wonder where that expression came from?> Anyway, tonite we're at The Second Class Saloon with no World Series game to distract us.
Thanx for the two visits - rounds ‘n quarters on this chilly ‘n overcast day in mid-continent USA!
Blues dropped one to the Blue Jackets <interesting name, eh > So much for the "promise" of better things to come . . . <arrrrrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhh>
Jan (JanOlov) at 10:56 AM: I'm beginning to think of you as our "teenager in residence," don't know WHY, but the symptoms are all about! <grin>
Of course we know better - appreciate the top up, et al!
By the by, our security cameras have "it" all recorded . . . you outran 'em to a point, then . . . <ugh> not pretty!
Dan (DL-UK) at 8:33 AM & 11:45 AM & 11:50 AM: All kinds of good material to become engrossed in ‘n with! While we've seen quite a bit of "Tee" info on Pages past over on the Original Thread - it's definitely a winner to see more, especially given the conversation that has sprung up . . .
Your trip to London sounds delightful - especially with a breakfast aboard the train!
And oh yes, corn cobs have "other uses," but not for discussion in this "family bar"!! <uh oh>
Interesting that I did NOT get the "wide page phenom" on my desktop ‘puter but DID get it on the laptop . . . settings are the same <or at least they are supposed to be> Hmmmmm - no matter, all came thru just fine! Thanx . . .
Pete (pwolfe) at 3:12 PM: Oooooooomigosh - I besmirched my Mate - Pete about his hat! Duly noted - corrected - mea culpa - have a couple of me! <remorse>
You "nailed" your partner square in the "keester" - perhaps you need to practice a wee bit more with those throws. <yikes>
Good news about your friends in Poway - I'd say they were very, very fortunate given the circumstances all around . . . very fortunate indeed.
Yeah I know your Mrs. doesn't work for MoDot <geesh> but she works for state government ‘n may be "closer" to talking to someone there than I am! <double geesh>
Fine looking streetcar - and - railtown fotos!
Glad my Pix turned out okay - still don't care for the camera, but I guess somehow, some way, I'm getting the hang of it . . . <grin>
Good luck tonite over at The Second Class Saloon! Be careful of those Swedish babes that have been sent in to "distract" our team!!! <uh oh>
See y'all in the 'morrow . . . remember, Saturday is ENCORE! 'n Photo Posting Day!
Hi Tom and all.
OOH ME HEAD a mug of coffee for now RUTH and perhaps I may manage a bacon sarnie later. I will load a barrel of Bathams XXX on the bus for a quick top up between the Second Class Saloons offerings tonite. I am going over a bit early in one of Vito the Hits cabs, as I am having a ride on the RDCs that leave by the Saloon before Match 2.
ROB Thanks for the info on the FP7s, I had not realized they had been re-engined with CAT engines. I guess there is quite a difference in sound between those and the ones with the original engines.
Liked the photo of the Witt streetcar, I managed to get a photo of an old car working in San Francisco, among the PCCs.
Any info on this car would be great. We had a ride back on the trolleys and I was hoping it would be this one, but I dare not get the bride to wait for it any longer as we had let a couple pass
ERIC It was a good idea to have a coffee in the middle of the darts contest; if I had I might be able to remember what went on.
Good news the line in Tucson is to be extended. It seems a lot of light rail schemes open new extensions, once they can get the first one built.
It is great to see a lot of the cabooses are to be found near stations when they finished in railroad service. I suppose the railroads donated them.
LARS Glad you can remember some of what went on last night, it is a blank to me. I promised myself I would stay sober in case there was a ‘wardrobe malfunction' with one of the cheerleaders but that notion went about the third Bathams XXX.
Great Canadian National and Pacific Railway bookcovers, the ‘Facilities' book looks an interesting read even an RDC on the cover.
CM3 Sorry I was not too clear on the headboards, the boards that had the destination were on the side of the carriages, in BR days the headboard on the locomotive had the train name. Some of the pre-grouping railways like the North British did have the destination on the front of the locomotive. The BR diesel multiple unit had a destination blind from the start.
Many thanks for the link to those Eighteenth and Nineteenth century Revenue Cutters.
Our intrepid reporter is on very fine form, and it is great to read that BORIS's driving skills have improved. MM does seem in a very mellow mood (for him). Looking forward to further reports.
JAN Hope for a speedy recovery on your arm ready for to night. As you say it is a hard job keeping the team supplied, I think the track gang are coming over tonight as well to give support.
A local brewery in Kansas City has a brew call ed Muddy MO Stout, quite good it is too.
DL Yes Holden's mild is a great pint to start an evening with. There is a Holden's pub that has been set up in the old station buildings at Codsall, the 2nd station out from Wolverhampton on the line to Shrewsbury. When I was there last there was a manual signalbox and semaphore signals but I think they were due to replaced, so may not be there now. The Great Western pub near Wolverhampton station is a Holden's house they also sell Bathams bitter there. Alan tells me Holden's Golden Glow as finished high up in its class in the CAMRA Beer of the Year awards.
Glad you are enjoying Red for Danger. L.T.C. Rolt is a very good author I think.
Many thanks for the links to the TEEs; they were very stylish trains that made quite an impact in Britain in the railway press. That is an interesting shunting locomotive in front of TEE 1900 in the great set of photos.
TOM We have heard from our friends in Poway and fortunately there home is safe although they know people who have lost theirs, as you say, a very sad time for the folks in that area.
Yes my fall in Denver is a good tale for the Rendezvous, enough to say I honestly thought I had broke my ankle, but you would have admired my British spirit, if you had seen me hobble up the steps to view the cab of the Big-Boy in the museum there.
I don't think the bride h
Proprietor's Comments: <uh oh> I'm noticing that we are still seeing a bit of unwillingness to use the Forums to best advantage. <Thus far today, Lars, Shane 'n Dan are excused from this tirade!> We used to have a guy who frequented this place with once per day visits. He complained quite a bit about being overwhelmed with the material "backed up." In my off-line Emails to him, I explained over 'n over about using the RELOAD/REFRESH feature on his browser to get the most current Postings. He just wouldn't do it - so when he visited, he'd always be a "day late 'n a dollar short!" So no wonder he was always behind the curve - by the time he answered the comments directed to him, they'd be days old . . . Soooooooo, if the shoe fits! USE the RELOAD/REFRESH button on your browser BEFORE 'n AFTER making your Post!
I'm noticing that we are still seeing a bit of unwillingness to use the Forums to best advantage. <Thus far today, Lars, Shane 'n Dan are excused from this tirade!>
We used to have a guy who frequented this place with once per day visits. He complained quite a bit about being overwhelmed with the material "backed up." In my off-line Emails to him, I explained over 'n over about using the RELOAD/REFRESH feature on his browser to get the most current Postings. He just wouldn't do it - so when he visited, he'd always be a "day late 'n a dollar short!" So no wonder he was always behind the curve - by the time he answered the comments directed to him, they'd be days old . . .
Soooooooo, if the shoe fits! USE the RELOAD/REFRESH button on your browser BEFORE 'n AFTER making your Post!
Here they are, the final fotos (36 including these) from my Oct 23rd Amtrak adventure with Wolfman Pete - six at a time of course!
Six to GO! Number Five 'n Final
<Trip report on Page 130>
Eastbound Amtrak #316 <formerly westbound #311> coming back from the Wye at KCity
The scene of the crime - Amfleet Café Car 'n Business Class!
Waiting to board
Lady driver for Amtrak #316 (St. Louis Mule)
Proprietor Tom in KCity <camera still works!>
Wolfman Pete in KCity <does this man really NEED more than 3 Sam Adams >
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Enjoy!
Another beer please - now we move on:
Have a look at the following selection which shows the cars and the massive effort to get them back to Europe for restoration and the problems that then ensued.
Here's an interesting story of a second generation TEE restored and operated as a preserved unit in Switzerland (not the same as the ONR sets though):
http://www.swissinfo.org/eng/specials/modern_switzerland/detail/Vintage_TEE_train_back_on_track.html?siteSect=2251&sid=4652102&cKey=1074680230000&ty=st
Here's background on the TEE network for anyone unfamiliar with this classic European train concept from the ‘classic era' :
http://homepages.cwi.nl/~dik/english/public_transport/TEE/history.html
History of the ONR TEE cars - with some good links showing their ‘rescue'
http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/RGodby/trains/northlander.htm
An extract:
"After nearly 4 million kilometres of service they were retired from European service when electrification of the entire TEE system was completed in the early 1970's. Many view these diesel powered units as historically significant because they are an example of the first generation of high(er) speed passenger trains that Europe has since become famous for.
The power coaches were built in Holland by Werkspoor (this fact later led to the pun "works poor" when referring to the recurring power coach problems experienced in their later years on the ONR!)"
ONR TEE in Europe in the classic era - also explains their Dutch lineage as Eric mentioned:
http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/RGodby/trains/Northlander/TEEI_Europe.htm
Here's an extract about the planned preservation and an obscure link to the Britsh Class 50 - (I don't think anything ever coame of this plan)
"As the power coaches were ultimately scrapped in 1984 (click here for photo), it is now planned that a new power coach be constructed using one of the two pilot coaches and a former Class 50 diesel from British Rail."
Some pictures of the remarkable journey back to Europe from Canada
http://www.northlander.de/english/index-e.htm
with pictures inside one big ship!
http://www.northlander.de/english/gal-e.htm
Scroll down this page for a report (in English) on a fire in the cars at North Bay in 2005 which does not suggest there is much hope for them (did you know about this Rob? Did it happen since you last saw them?):
http://www.nicospilt.com/Canada.htm
This Dutch site has some superb pictures of them back in the day on TEE trains in Europe during the 1960s - well worth a look:
http://www.nicospilt.com/Diesel_TEE.htm
Also pictures showing the units in 2006 still in ONR livery but presumably back in Europe and having undergone some restoration - I've no doubt if you can translate the Dutch it will explain!
Further down the page it seem to be getting a re spray into the original red livery in 2007.
Some real info on the restoration - quite a saga but very interesting:
http://www.stichtingtee.nl/index.cfm?fuseaction=main.informatief_showPage&selid=1&mn_Id=6
A site in German dedicated to the TEE - good pictures.
http://www.tee-classics.ch/00.html
Anyway - plenty of reading matter there - but interesting.
DL
Hello Tom and all in
I'll have a pint of Harvey's Bitter please, and a look at the menu for Friday since it is the end of the week.
Jan - thanks for your comments.
Tom - you certainly had good weather on your trip - it shows in the pictures very well - nice light always makes a great picture. I've learned to try and avoid taking pics on dull overcast days (like you get in England) as it always end up with disappointing results.
Thanks for the corn pipe explanation - sometimes the obvious is not what you think of!
Pete - Holden's mild was at the beer festival here - I enjoyed some - very good!
Incidentally I have been leant a copy of Rolt's Red for Danger which I am reading (this is presumably still doing the rounds with someone) - very good book. I have now finished his book Railway Adventure about saving the Tallylyn narrow gauge line back in 1951 - a really good read.
We are agreed on Bristol - it is the curve of the roof that made me think of it too.
Rob - Yes, I enjoyed the Warplane museum - I wanted to see the aircraft my late uncle had flown during his Commonwealth Air Training stint in Canada and afterwards - and apart from a Short Sunderland they had an example of every type there. I was surprised so many were in working order, and we were lucky in that because the next day many planes were going down to the Brantford (?) Air show so would not have been there for us to see. The Mitchell bomber was fired up to warm up the engines - and that was great to see and hear. The Lanc was towed out to make space but not fired up - which was shame. Two weeks after I got back here the RAF flying Lanc flew low over our house 3 times on a lap of the city here - what a site and sound!
Thanks for the info on the ONR stock - I'd be interested in seeing some pictures of the cars ‘back in the day' in their NYC, CNR or VIA guise (I suppose we need link man Mike to find those....)
I knew some of the other cars were ex GO - they have been really well rebuilt, with the only criticism being that the windows are rather small and do no line up with the seats inside. Since there were no reservations though I made sure we got seats with good windows.
What will happen to ONR services if Ontario Province sell the system? I would imagine that would put them at risk. I was impressed by their services on what must have been low income.
Eric - your comment on the ONR ex TEE cars got me thinking - along with Rob's thoughts - so I did a bit of research on the cars. Of course you were right to say they were Dutch (also swiss) - turns out they are historically important because they were the first TEE generation SBB / NS RAM 1 type.
I always used to think the TEE sest looked stylish when I saw pictures of them in old railway magazines of the 60s.
I found some sites well worth looking at - some of the pages are in ducth or german (which I can't translate) but they are amply sullied with great pictures and well worth a look - I'm putting them sepertly to avoid wide page probs.
I'm off to London tomorrow - booked on an early train with a seat reserved in the dining car for breakfast. Should be a good trip.
All the best
Greetings Master Tom and fellow Knights Of The Golden Turntable.....
May I please have some black Java please and usual top up with cigars for the troops....? Here's some $$$$ for yourself....
I'm just back from town after giving blood, not to worry, I used my left arm since I'm right handed.... I see that the party is in full swing outside for our latest Championship...should still be able to give a good fight at the bar with beers and grub...
I thought that I'd stay off the booze for at least another 5 minutes, don't you agree folks?
coalminer3, Soooo.....does it work like for every outer ring you down a dram, inner ring two drams and bullseye three drams...hmmm?? Or am I thinking of a completely different sport?
Tom, those are some serious nice pics mate? Can't remember ever heard Missouri as "Old Muddy", probably one of many nicknames on the river and I guess that Mississppi and the others have some as well... pwolfe, still working hard mate.....would hate to be unfit to the big tournament at hand.....
trolleyboy, thanks for clearing that up for me mate...too many years from school ya know.... One thing though, isn't moose and elk the same animal?? I've always had trouble with those two, keeping them apart and all that...
EricX2000, I'm cool mate......I think or I hope I am....what do you mean being safe or almost safe..?
Tom, six more pics to enjoy good man....! I've been informed that keeping everybody topped up and well fed is hard work, so I thought that I'd come prepared....
Da Larsman, nice covers as always mate! I do NOT know what you're talking about...beer, team, running, me??
Can I have that beer now, please?
Some activity this morning - which of course is good, actually GREAT considering the events of last nite!
Some quickie responses . . .
No, no, no - Lars didn't "spill the beans," Shane - methinks you've read more into his comments than are there. Of course he KNOWS who won - he was there!!! He was on the team!!! <geesh> What in the world are YOU putting into that corn cob pipe <uh oh>
Received your Email 'n responded - Dan!
Lars you look like a penny waiting for change . . . how in the world did you ever manage to lift Mountain Main Mike off the deck like that Not a gentle <or gentile> landing either! <yikes>
Surely glad I remained in control of my faculties - being Proprietor 'n Chief Barkeep, gotta remain on top of things. Anyway, we all eagerly await the "news" . . . .
Now for another installment of . . . .
Six to Go! Number Four
Rural America
Fall colors beginning to show in central Missouri
Eastbound Ann Rutledge - running late <what's new!>
Missouri National Guard vehicles near Jefferson City
Wolfman boarding - and he IS wearing the hat I bought him!! <wow>
More later . . . six at a time!
Were Off to See What?
Greetings from our studios high atop Majestic Mount Mentor. We begin this report with a travelogue.
There is, of course, a garage beneath the studio which houses a variety of vintage motor cars. Some of them work and some don't - sort of like a lot of people we know. Anyway, at an early hour, Boris donned his motoring togs and went out to fire up the Packard. As luck would have it, it wouldn't start. Problem seemed to be something having to do with mice in the magneto or was it a dormouse in the distributor? Anyway, we have Artie looking into the situation. His motivation is that he gets to eat what he finds.
The Locomobile was out of the question as it was on blocks because earlier we had to swap out the tires and put then on the Packard. The Pierce Arrow, usually, the choice of all upscale Mentorians is being saved for the victory celebration.
So that left us with the Crosley. You think its easy fitting Boris, your intrepid reporter, a variety of mascots, food hampers, ammunition boxes, etc. into a Crosley? Anyway we got down the hill, crossed the rope bridge and successfully negotiated all of the Mentor Defense Force checkpoints with a modicum of trouble. They are easily distracted, believe me - I think it was because they had been training so hard, that they never even opened their eyes when we passed by.
Our first stop was to obtain our media credentials - a snappy-looking gold-painted railroad spike on a length of chain - certainly a well-balanced and potentially useful item should the fun-loving fans and contestants get a little rowdy. We will keep it close to hand throughout the tournament.
Even Boris was concerned as he changed from his usual brogans to the steel-tipped ones. He's been around and can take care of himself, but he always does things correctly. I almost said by the numbers, but the last time he did that he got 10 to 20 with time served.
Boris's rules of engagement are simple. He makes sure there is at least one good escapeway, never sits with his back to a door or window, and always carries plenty of bail money and wild boar jerky in case we run short of rations.
Thus fortified, we were ready to begin.
Our first stop was the section of the media area which was behind the razor wire. The Second Class team in an electric (no Boris, ecelectic) crew this year.
FIRST EDITOR'S NOTE - This dispatch arrived earlier today but it was seriously fragmented because of solar flares, we appreciate your forbearance
Media Circus Maximus -1, or Things Always Sound Better in Latin
IMWWDT media day can be a dangerous proposition because the contestants are getting tanked (make that warmed up). We made sure that our media credentials were at the ready and that our PPE was functional.
As mentioned above, our first stop was at the Second Class's training venue and dip pens where Mt. Man Mike (MM for short) was actually in a jovial mood (for him) as he was using a fine file rather than the wood rasp on his teeth. Sorry Boris, I didn't mean to confuse you about second being first. Think of it in terms of Pullman car prices back in the day - the price of the upper was lower because it was higher. Got it? Good work!
We greeted him carefully, but before we could talk about his team and its chances, he wanted to show me the latest acquisition in camp décor. Your jaded reporter was actually impressed because what I thought to be tiki torches turned out to be heads on sticks. The Second Class Owner, GM and first alternate explained that this decoration served a four-fold purpose.
First, it was to inspire his team (he said that he had told Mo, Rock, Lance, and Doug that this was what would happen to them if they didn't win this year). This is the kind of stuff your reporter likes to find out - strategy and intent, right Awk? After all, you never know the questions a good cross-examiner might ask.
Second was to intimidate the Our Place team. Your reporter casually observed that given the usual state/condition of the Our Place d'artistes, seeing one more skull floating in the air wasn't going to make a whole lot of difference. MM carefully considered the proposition brought forward by your reporter, and remarked, "It's the thought that counts, I believe in leading by example, smoke ‘em if you got ‘em." I noticed he does have a corncob pipe.
The third purpose was to get a jump on Halloween. MM is truly a party animal (stress on the animal) as he said reflectively, "The holidays seem to start earlier every year."
The fourth purpose was to as he put it, "Inspire the guys in Oakland." I had Boris make a note of that so we can board the private car and travel west to see whassup with the Raiders.
Your inquiring reporter then asked for a rundown on the team and how MM thought they would do. He said that, "They were all run down before we drafted them - think of it as road kill." That, of course, made Boris and Artie hungry.
MM said, "Just look at ‘em; new uniforms this year (fresh hides - kind of rough smelling in damp weather), and we even got chromed chains and buffed the maces and tridents. We're ready." This appraisal was reinforced by a chorus of grunts, screams, wheezes, gurgles, and gasps from the training area.
It was clear that our interview was at an end because it was feeding time, so we headed on to the Our Place site to see what they were doing
ANOTHER EDITOR'S NOTE: The transmission broke up here, but rest assured that as soon as we finish massaging the voice print, we will have some up close and personal material about the Our Place folks and their alibis, strike that, Frostbite, I think he meant plans and intentions. The last little bit that did get through mentioned that our intrepid reporter was going to load up the Crosley and move streetside for the parade and pep rally as soon as he got done with the visit to the Our Place camp - the parade is generally a good one.
Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please (New England Four Seasons Blend) and slide the donut tray this way - thank you! Round for the house and $ for the jukebox.
Interesting night for fans of things Boston in sports. The World's Serious game was a dandy - lots of inside stuff which I like - hit behind the runner, pick offs, and some insane relief pitching. Then, right across the mountain we had Boston College and Virginia Tech - what a finish there! Also (hang on to your fez's, the Bruins won! Holy Cow! (Sorry Harry, wherever you are). Shaping up to be an interesting weekend, too.
Classic Trains arrived this a.m. I won't comment on any of the stories except to say that one of them has a great photo of the DL&W at Lackawanna Terminal in Buffalo.
Now let's look at the stack of stuff.
Rob - Thanks for the information on the Witts.
Pete - UP has a couple of steam engines in service, of course. I believe, however, that 8444 is the only one that was not "retired." I'll do some looking on headboards. Over here, they were used to display the train name, rather than the route.
Eric - They add, change, and delete pages in the bar rules at will. It's like the "book" in baseball. The "book" exists but nobody has ever seen a copy. Lovely MP cab; one of the last before they got swallowed up, IIRC.
Lars - Appreciate the bookmobile materials. I don't know how you know the results of the darts match yet. We'll have to see what the reporter submits. Remember his comment about "fog of war" yesterday - it may have something to do with the refreshments and other entertainments - I'm anxiously awaiting his dispatch.
OSP - MacArthur and corncob pipes. You got on that one ahead of me. A Missouri Meerschaum loaded with Prince Albert - a manly smoke for sure. Enjoyed your story abt. seegars on the bridge - worked good, I bet - haven't seen a mosquito yet. Kinda like Boris's snakebite medicine, I guess. 2600th post? I had no idea (of, course lots of folks say that)
As for cutters, that brought "revenue cutters" to mind. The following website has lots of neat material - check it out, folks, there's a lot of history.
http://www.uscg.mil/history/webcutters/USRC_Photo_Index.html
work safe
Boris? Boris? Oh, there you are - There's smoke coming out of the vents on the Marconi - give it a good thump on top - thanks - maybe that will will allow the next message to get through - I hope that our reporter has not been surrounded (or worse fallen into the settling ponds behind the building).
Hello Tom
Half of Holden's please. Just to say e-mail arrived OK - initial reply may be with you by now.
Will be back later with a proper post. Eric and Rob's posts got me thinking about the ex TEE ONR cars - I've found out some v interesting stuff (turns out these cars are very important in terms of euro rail history) - I'll share my findings in a coherent post in due course.
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Ruth my deAH, time for my daily mugga Joe with a jolt - make it a <double>! Ohhhhhhhhh, my aching head. So who won the contest last night Nocturnalman Eric was in rare form, that much I recall. NevAH heard Swedish yodeling B4! <wow> <ouch - hurts just to think of THAT sound!> <ooooooooooooh>
Didja see Wolfman Pete ‘n Kiwi Allan do their thing Darts, that is!! WondAH if Allan was able to remove that dart from his . . . . oh well, I'm sure Pete was distracted! <uh oh>
Those goons from the 2nd Class Saloon were no match for our crew - what a great brawl - I mean it brought me back to the sailor dives of old times! <grin> <ouch> Is that a FINGER laying of there . . . <grim>
Was that really Jan who dumped those pitchers of beer over the heads of the goon squad from the other team Didn't know a man could run that fast . . . <grin> Anyone seen him lately WondAH where they buried him <uh oh>
Cindy ‘n her cheerleading squad were quite remarkable - THAT I do remember. Didn't know Brittany Speers designed those outfits! <oooooops> Sorry, Ruth - I didn't look that hard <much>! Hmmmmmm, ohhhhhhh boy, I'm in trouble! Another jolt if you please!!
Boris - where's Boris Sleeping in or in jail. WondAH which I haven't checked his shed - but I do see the "tire repair kit," so he mustabeen busy with those inflatable "gals" of his. <oooooooooooh boy!> What a night!
Nice shots from your Kansas City trip, Cap'n Tom! Rainy What in the world is Eric looking at I think he's still <smitten> by those cheerleaders - wondAH if they realized that . . . . oh nevAH mind!
Tonite the bus takes us ovAH to their joint - so BRING ‘US ON! Or something like that . . . <oooooooooooh>
I think I bettAH quite while I'm ahead . . .
Ah, the arrival of the Larsman Mobile!
Canadian National Railway
Canadian Pacific Railway
Canadian Railways - Color Guide to Freight and Passenger Equipment
Canadian Treasures - Two Trains Across Canada
Canadian Pacific Steam, Vol 2 - Montreal & West
Canadian Pacific Facilities - In Color - Vol 1
Ruth, I'll be up in the Penthouse Suite when you take your break - <ahem> admin work awaits! We must "go gently into the night" . . . . my head hurts! <ooooooooooh>
Continuing on with the fotos from my Oct 23rd Amtrak experience with Wolfman Pete!
Six to GO! Number Three
Crossing the Gasconade River
Someone's toy
All kindsastuff!
A break between farms
Callaway nuclear power plant <telefoto>
The old 'n the new - Coal power plant to the left - Nuclear to the right
<smudge in the center!>
More later - 6 at a time!
Guten Morgen allerseits!
This is the week for our 2nd Annual Dart's Challenge ‘n Grudge Match against The Second Class Saloon! All matches have been sanctioned by the IMWWDT <and so have the players - sanctioned, that is!>
Game #1 was last nite - however sun spot activity has caused a disruption in communiqués from Mt. Mentor. Therefore in keeping with the stringent rules of the IMWWDT, we eagerly await the report from our Ace Reporter! <phew>
Game #2 takes place at The Second Class Saloon tonite!
Game #3 is back at "Our" Place on Saturday evening and will be played irrespective of a 2-zip "white wash" by either side <ooooooooh>
Final OKTOBERFEST at "Our" Place tomorrow at noon!
PLAN TO SHARE THIS FALL CELEBRATION WITH US!
Thursday - 25 Oct 2007:
Fergie (Fergmiester) at 6:47 AM: Great seeing you again - wondered where you've been - aside from being out to sea! <grin>
Got a kick out of the 2nd link - couldn't load the first one. Hudson link was most interesting . . . would enjoy getting data from the others. I'll have to try again thanx!
Throwing darts at computer screens IS hazardous to the computer screen! <uh oh>
Good luck with the home projects . . .
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 9:25 AM: Remember when the World Series was always in early October At least the Rockies made a game outta #2 . . . they surely took a beating in the 1st one . . . BoSox are an awesome bunch <some even moreso in appearance!>
You posited an interesting question . . . chocolate cobbler WITH a liberal dousing of brandy! Hmmmmmm - but - the cobbler would have to come from The Mentor Village Bakery ‘n they are quite "protective" of the manner in which their creations are used <misused>. Hmmmmm. Guess if no one is looking . . . <uh oh>
As a kid one of my childhood "best friends" Mom made the absolute best fruitcake. She was from Wales (as was the Mr. in the family) anyway, it wasn't ‘til we graduated from high school that she let us "sample" the adult version of the fruitcake. What was that - that Jackie Gleason used to "say" - woooooooooooooow! <grin> Fantastic fruitcake, fer sure, fer sure. How sweet it was! <grin>
Nope - never sampled one of those cigars you mentioned. Every now ‘n then when we'd be in the Caribbean, I'd pick up a box of this or that ‘n smoke ‘em up on the bridge. Always kept the mosquitoes away <grin> - actually, used to make an awful stink for those poor kids who got sea-sick at merely the mention. <how nasty!>
I don't think "gramps" was a discriminating cigar smoker - Phillies or White Owls comes to mind . . . the rings held together quite well from those two.
Check out this link!!
http://pages.ripco.net/~whizstrt/value.htm
Thanx for the 2nd installment of quarters ‘n round!
Lars (LoveDomes) at 10:15 AM: Six more Brit book covers - now that should just about put ‘em into orbit! Nice selections, as always!
Not to worry about keeping up with each ‘n every line from each ‘n every Post. Just something that we always cannot do. Anyway, hitting the hi-lites is pretty much what counts - so if you miss something, you'll most probably be reminded! <grin>
Many thanx for the round, visit, covers ‘n support!
Dan (DL-UK) at 11:01 AM: Email sent your way . . .
Regarding the ONR ‘n a trip to Cochrane ‘n back . . . if going solo, I'd take it in a hearbeat. However, when traveling with the bride, I like to ensure that we have the amenities, etc. We both very spoiled when it comes to train travel - especially dome seating ‘n dining cars! But getting back to coach travel - I can handle it during daytime - but once nightfall occurs, I want to know that there's a comfortable place for me to rest my weary <and aging> bones. Sitting in a coach seat just doesn't do it for Moi - nope.
Enjoyed the report ‘n amplifying info provided in your follow-up. Thanx!
Not trying to be funny - but corn cob pipes are precisely that! The bowl of the pipe is made from a corn cob. Yup - if you recall the U.S. General of the Army Douglas MacArthur of WWII ‘n Korean War fame - his trademark was indeed a corn cob pipe - made in Missouri! <ooooooooooh>
I'd have better success getting the orbiting space station to stock a supply of Sam Adam's brew <for Pete> than trying to get Amtra
Good (??) morning Captain Tom and the rest!!
Wow, a short break from the Battle at the Second Class Saloon where things are happening in a fast and confusing way. Leon, just give me a cup of coffee, I have to rush back ASAP. Sorry, I am not able to give you any more information at this moment. I don't remember.
Tom – Rule #53? How am I supposed to know? The page with rule #53 is missing in the Mentor Village Official Bar manual and rules. I know UP is a powerful lobby interest, but that doesn’t make their behavior any better. Have you ever been on time traveling to and from Kansas City? Thanks for the pictures! It was obviously a rainy day ( as you have already reported) when you and Pete took the train to Kansas City and back. I think those cars look pretty nice inside.Nice Mopac caboose! Another one below. That roadside tavern near downtown Washington, MO, reminds me in a way of the Second Class Saloon! Same owner? Fergie – Thanks for the link(s)! The first one did not work but Hudson’s link did. After adding the missing part of the first address that link worked too. Interesting to check where the different ships are. CM3 – Congratulations to the 2,600th post!!! Chocolate Cobbler drowned in brandy? That would be something else! Would it be tweetable to order that? Indeed it was and still is very foggy in and around the Second Class Saloon. Lars – Three ninety eight? Did I ever say the mugs are on sale? They are worth at least $4 each! More British book covers! British Rail 1974 – 1997 is my choice! And the last one, The Last Years of British Rail 1980 – 1984.DL – Of course, Kristen is invited to work at Our Place! I bet the ice is “climbing” that bridge across Moose River in the spring. I searched for pictures on the net tonight but didn’t find any.Thaks for all the “vidaduct” links!JanOlov – Stay cool and you will be safe! Or, at least, almost safe.Pete – You are right about #869, it looks better now than with the center doors. That short streetcar line in Tucson will be extended in a near future. Rob – Those TEE power units look like something from the Netherlands. Is there any connection? Nice picture from St. Clair Ave.
Atchison, KS, 2007.
Good evening gents. Leon I think a Keith's for me this evening and some fish n chips if theer are still some floating about. No boris I don't wish one of the one's from the goldfish bowl <geesh> .I hope the ole darts match comes out with the right teams on top. I myself am still in rehab from wounds recieved at last years tournament.
Eric-2786 is semi functional but is in retirment at the moment. It was our sole running Witt for the better part of 20 years until we got it's younger sister 2894 back from tourtram service in Toronto. "27' awaits a restoration full re-plumbing of wiring at break pipes as well as some cosmetic internal restoration.The ONR locomotives were the power unit from teh one Tee set and a pair of FP7's both of which were part of the reconstructions carried out in the 90's repowering them with catrepillar prime engines and HEP gen sets for car heat and power.
Tom-yes those Tee's are in awfull shape , they are only going to receive cosmetic restoration, hopefully sooner than later. two nice bunches of shots from the Amtrak excursion. We are still game for a Northland run , just bring lots of deep woods off
Fergie-Long time no see sir. Just warn me the next time you hurl a dart I don't need another "darts" injury. I was out in your neck of the woods this summer . We saw several og the Atlantic region cutters in St John's while we were there.
CM3-A yes the prose of a pro darts cover(er) I can hardly wait for tomorrows play by play.I'm a big Witt fan myself. Having experiance of operating both large and small Witt's it's amazing the difference between them.
A picture of the TTC changing of the guard in the early 60's along St Clair Ave. A small Witt leads the new kid on the block in the early 60's just before the TTC retired the 40+ year old Witt's from service . Replacinf them with 700+ PCC's !
DL Dan -I'm sorry that you missed us that trip out. I'm sure that you will be back at some point. The Canadian Warplane Herritage Museum is a treasure to be sure. We generally try to take in the Nov 11th services there. As long as the weather's fine it's usually teh Lanc's last flight of the season. were you able to catch some flight ops while you were there ?
Most of those ex CN coaches on the ONR fall into a couple categories. The larger heavier one's were the "blueline" casr from VIA. So they are CC&F built cars and some of teh cars that CN purchased from the NYC for transcontinental work. The lighter commuter type cars they use are CN's old tempo train corridor cars and the first generation single level Go transit coaches that were built in the early 60's by Bombardier.
Lars-Some more fine fine book covers for sir Pete and the rest of us Good luck in the hurling tonight , hopefully no one will be seriously punctured ! Mind you I'm sure that Ruth will nurse you back to health.
Pete-It's hard to say what the ONR's long term plans are for teh few FP7's left on their roster. All were bought in the mid-50's. Only teh cat repowered ones are still on the property, but the conversions were less than satisfactory and many of the GP38-2's were rebuilt with some HEP equipment and those locomotives are much more reliable and newer some bought in the late 80's. With ONR still for sale ( the Ontario Govt wants out of the railway business ) I'm sure the purcahsers will want only the newset and best.
Jan-Big game is available in Canada espeacially in BC and the territories. Grizzly bears Elk, MTN Lions and carribou and Moose are all native Big Horn sheep as well a veritable taxidermists dreamYou gotta do something when your alone in the north country.
Rob
I had better start with a Holden's Mild please RUTH, as it could be a long day with the darts contest, I save the Bathams XXX for later.
ALLAN Interesting link to the UP 844, there can't be many steam locomotives in the world still owned by their original company and have never been retired from duty.
Yes the bride sent me to the sin bin for 10 minutes after I was swearing at the video refs decision.
There is talk now and then about another viaduct at Welwyn although the cost would be enormous I would think, as I doubt if they would be allowed to put a concrete structure next to the historic viaduct.
Did you ever get to see the elevated railway in Liverpool. I believe it was known as the ‘Docker's Umbrella'
I think we are ready for the darts, partner.
ROB Many thanks for the photos. The FP7s look in great condition; I guess they are still kept in that condition today.
Glad you enjoyed the layout photos; they do indeed have some great layouts in the museum. They have a layout with trolleys working, but with the lighting and the glass panels in front of the layout it is hard to get photos.
ERIC Thanks for the link to the Kyoto Streetcar. I think it looks so much better after the renovation into its #869 condition than it was with a center door and surely it deserved better than that advertising livery.
I too have been exercising for the darts match, mainly by bending my elbow by lifting a pint pot.
FERGIE Great to hear from you, I sure you would be a good addition to the Our Place Darts Squad.
I guess you are back in harbour, what is renos.
Have you heard of a vessel called the John Ross Clark I think the name is, that is or was used in Artic surveys.
CM3 There were some great cars with the Lionel model, the bride was admiring them, but we could not get a decent photo unfortunately.
It will be good to hear more about the headboards carried by the name trains over here. Up until the mid 1960s the long distance trains had the route of the train, say London-Liverpool on boards above the windows of the cars, also if it was a named train that was included beside the route board. These boards stopped being used after the spread of overhead electrification.
It seems our fearless reporter is on top form with the Preliminaries 1 report. I think the rules needed to be shown again but who is going to make the Second Class lot abide by them.
ARTIE coming from the Owlry at Hogwarts could explain a thing or two.
Congratulations on post 2,600
LARS As you say the bar is busy now and with great posts as well, and a lot of this is down to you. I am sure we will keep the bar going while your time is going to be tight, who knows I may be able to pay off my bar tab.
I wish I knew why all of a sudden I am having such a problem with cameras. I had one that had lasted years until I fell on it in Denver, since then nothing but bad luck with them.
Many thanks for the bookcovers, mainly from the British Railways era. There was a time when every freight train had a brake van at the rear, like the cabooses here, now almost all disappeared.
The unit on the BR Northern Scene cover is interesting, it is one of the units that worked the Manchester Victoria to Bury service, this line worked on the 1,500 Volt DC side-contact 3rd rail system which I believe was unique in the UK. The line is now part of the Manchester Metro light rail system using overhead wires.
DL How I miss those real ale festivals They have a winter ale festival in Dudley which I think comes up in the next month or two, I will have to check with Alan when it is, Dudley is in the heart of Bathams land,
SPECIAL - SPECIAL - SPECIAL
Congrats to CM3 Shane for Posting the 2,600th offering at our reborn bar!
Drinks on Shane - errrrrrrrrr, on the house! Ring the bell Boris!
Many THANX for the Preliminaries 'n Rules report!
BRING 'em ON!!!
P.S. Who darted in here ??? <geesh>
Six to Go! Number Two
A few more fotos from my trip to KCity 'n return with Wolfman Pete on Oct 23rd . . . .
Retired MoPac caboose at Washington, MO
Roadside tavern 'n restaurant near "downtown" Washington, MO
Dredging the Missouri River near Washington
Boat ramp 'n park at Hermann, MO
Bridges across the Missouri River to Hermann
<old span behind new>
Missouri River west of Hermann
<dijaknow that the Missouri River is nicknamed "The Big Muddy" Many apply that name incorrectly to the Mississippi . . . . >
More tomorrow - 6 at a time!
Good Afternoon Barkeep and all Present: Coffee, please; ropund for the hosue and $ for the jukebox.
Well, tournament time is here. Herewith is a despatch I just received on the old Marconi receiver. It sounds like it was written a few days ago, but who's counting - we run 'em as we get 'em, right, Leon?
Preliminaries - 1
Good afternoon fellow d'artistes from our studios high atop Majestic Mount Mentor overlooking, well, we really can't say what it's overlooking because its too foggy to see much of anything. Through our binoculars, we really can't tell if it's a smoke screen or tear gas. Well, those of our loyal readers who are true cosmopolites (no, Boris, not cosmolines) understand how things can get a little confused now and then. Fog of war, indeed.
As the title suggests, it seems like it was just yesterday when we were running from the sheriff and the Mentor Police and Hunt Club Dog Pack, check that, make it together for the first Annual (sort of) IMWWDT - International Mentor World Wide Darts Tournament. HA! who says four legs are faster than two?
In the interests of historical accuracy, we will remind our faithful readers that the Our Place d'artistes won the first IMWWDT trophy. The plan was for them to hold it for a year, assuming that it was not pawned, melted down, or sold for scrap. You may also recall that they went on a tour to promote their book, How to Do Whatever It Takes to Win at Darts, or Smoky the Bar. The tour was successful (everyone was acquitted) and the boys made JUST enough money to pay their fines. They left in coaches on the Mentor and Southern Narrow Gauge, but returned "riding the blinds." However, as Vito and Leon said to your intrepid reporter at that time, "People forget after while." It turns out that they must have because we are going to have a second tournament.
Our next report will be filed from the holding pen (Boris, I told you, it sound better if we call it a media tent) where we will get to meet the players from both teams (and their alternates), examine the togs that the dapper dashing darters will don, get some inside tips on strategies, plans, and other stuff. For the media watchers out there (and you know who you are - Boris, they're all watching us, I know they are, they're everywhere - sorry about that, got a little carried away), we will also find out who won the honor of covering the tournament on TV, and take a look at the pre tournament parade which is always a high spot (in more ways than one). I have it on good authority that the bands and floaters (I mean, floats) are really going to be something special this year. That being said, we need to take a brief look at how the game is to be played. Remember how it is supposed to be played and how it is played at a true sporting venue such as the IMWWDT can and probaly will vary widely. In short, be skeptical, be very skeptical.
Rules, Rules, Rules
As a refresher for those who may not remember. Oops! Must have nodded out again; thanks for the cold towel, Frostbite. As I was saying, darts is a game played between two players or two teams. Each player throws three darts in a turn. The darts are then retrieved. Darts must stay on the board for at least five seconds after a player's final throw. Throws don't count if they stick in another dart or fall off the board. If a player's foot (paw or tentacle) crosses the line or if a player falls over the line, then the throw does not count. There are no "do-overs" in darts.
Scoring is pretty straightforward. In the wedge; the amount posted on the outer ring. Double ring (outer narrow ring) twice the number hit. Triple ring, three times the number hit. Outer bulls eye; 25 points; double bulls eye (inner); 50 points.
Darts is truly an interesting game, especially when played by the likes of the two groups of escapees (I mean teams) that are featured this year. That will be. As mentioned above covered in future reports.
Right after that, the circuits went dead. Amybe they'll fade in again soon. If they do, you will of course be among the firt to know what's happening.
Greetings Tom all gentlemen present at the bar....
Barkeep....may I please have an eye opener and the usual top up with cigars for the crew? Cheers! Here's something for yourself $$$$...
$$$$ for the cigar box and Mr Wurlitzer....
BRING 'EM ON!!!!
DL - UK, that was one great post, with some great pics to go... ! Your next round is me mate!
marthastrainyard, thank you kindly Sir! It'll take some time to get used to, for sure....
Tom, NICE depot mate ! I really enjoyed reading your post and look at the pics.......
pwolfe, well, started off with 12 solid hours of Wednesday to Thursday night and few hours today....deffinitely needed it seems.... Talking about saddletank engines, weren't some used on the logging railroads on the likes of Rayonier and Weyerhaeuser?? I think that I've seen that somewhere on 2-6-6-2T's or something....
Great pics on the models and that AWESOME roundhouse ! Wouldn't mind build a layout where I could put a roundhouse like that up..... What an engine facility that would be...
Gunneral, I'm sure that you lads have a better voice than me.....I thought that I was alone in here....darn... WHO can possibly get enough of some proper steam....friend of order wonder...trolleyboy, I'll dig into that and see what my dads cousin has come up with. She started some time ago this with......darn.....what's called again.....?...ancestry?? Maybe she's found something.... He was an big game hunter as well....never heard that you could be that up in Canada....always connected big game hunting with lions, tiger, rhinos etc....
Great pics....! Didn't Marklin do the NOrthlander in H0?
EricX2000, shoot! Never thought about that..... Maybe if we pretend like nothing has happened, he won't notice....right? Nice pic of some nice and tidy tracks mate...
Tom, not to worry pardener, been working out all day today, almost anyway....
just to make sure that I get a nice and steady hand if needed...
I was planning to win big and retire at 40, but so far my carefully though up plans hasn't worked to my satisfaction....
Nice pics of interior, depot and those UP diesels mate. Can't help but think of your reaction had they been E-8 or E-9's instead with matching Pullmans, or why not M-10006?
coalminer3, yup mate....have a large one on me...
Da Larsman, another round of nice covers mate.... Have a dram on me mate..
I'll have a Batham's mild please.
Reminds me - last week was our local Beer Festival (400 + brews and ciders and perries too) - I looked out for Batham's Pete but they had none - some other good west midlands milds however!
Per - yes the ONR C&O diner was end of train and the windows gave it an observation car feel (esp. with the door open) - although of course not like full end windows.. ONR did indeed have TEE cars and thanks to Rob who has provided more info. I believe some Swiss enthusiasts have paid for one set to go back to Switzerland for restoration but I don't know how things are going with that project (shame we have no Swiss connection..)
Rob - thanks for your additional info on ONR - I was hoping my report might stimulate your thoughts. You will have missed my Toronto visit highlights - which included TTC action, watching the Canadian depart, a fantastic Toronto RR Historical society behind the scenes tour of Union station and a trip to the Warplane Heritage Museum (all detailed on prev pages) - my one big regret was not getting time to get out to your street car museum - which was on my list of things to do. Afraid it got sacrificed in favour of a trip to see the Group of 7 art collection (which was very good, but it is not streetcars!).
Mosquitoes were not a problem as it was too cold up there - even in Mid august - I think we were lucky!
Incidentally - any further info on the CNR stock I was riding in on the Polar Bear would be much appreciated.
Tom - I'll keep an eye on my e-mail as requested (but if you don't get a reply please prompt me as I had a problem with it a week ago which should now be solved - I've also had to set spam filters to max but I sincerely hope you don't get caught by them!)
I take your comment on the coach class ride to Cochrane - but in fairness to ONR that was fine. Clearly many Polar bear passengers had got to Cochrane by road or tour bus - since there were only 8 of us who got off at Cochrane the prev night - but that is not my style - not when a daily passenger train is in operation ready and waiting for me to use!
I appreciate for you there are other logistical aspects to consider of course!
Very much enjoyed your Amtrak illustrated trip report - is Kristen being invited to apply to work at Our Place?
What would happen if you two got in touch with Amtrak BEFORE the trip and asked for more than 3 bottles of Sam Adams to be stocked? Would they do it?
Also - what are Corn Cob pipes? Sounds intriguing.
Pete - nice one on the location recognitions from the book covers - I thought Lincoln too, but many others were not so obvious to me.
Indeed the full dome did have tables throughout - less of a problem in that respect as obviously it has more seating full stop - the weakness of that design is that the glass does not go too far to the apex of the roof - so it is like a big window - but not a real dome in my view! The 6 wheel bogies must have helped, but it was still a swaying ride!
I often used to take Class 33 hauled MK 1 compartment stock from Brighton to Chichester - Portsmouth - Southampton and Bristol / Cardiff when I could - they provided the fastest train along the coast as all the EMU services stopped more frequently. You could still get compartment haulage as late as 1985 ish - but by about 1986 they had switched to Class 156 railcars - a significant downgrade IMHO!
I'll try and look out the Railway Magazine given your recommendation on LMS pics. Would complement the recent films I saw which I relay soon.
Just got my winter Classic Trains delivered yesterday - so have plenty to read (and not enough time...)
Are you planning any UK trips by the way?
Eric - yes the Moose river viaduct is remarkable (esp when seen from the ground unlike on the train where I saw it from) - it must be amazing in snow melt period / ice thaw - it must take a battering.
Talking of viaducts - I was asked for my opinion on an LNER poster a while back - I think the picture was stylised view of the Royal Border Bridge at Berwick on Tweed with the artist taking some licence
Here's some posters and pictures worth a look.
http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10170934&wwwflag=3&imagepos=24
http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10173872&wwwflag=2&imagepos=26
http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10451582&wwwflag=2&imagepos=27
http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10307122&wwwflag=2&imagepos=29
And here is the poster captioned as being such - so maybe that is proof:
http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10170922&wwwflag=2&imagepos=28
Allan - thanks for your remarks - I did take a few pics - but I've decided to go back to taking 35mm transparencies - esp since I've got a great projector set up at home. I did have a digital for small scale record shots but I realised I like my SLR too much and don't want to pay out for an expensive SLR digital - which would obviously be the business.
Coal miner - thanks for the info on the C&O diner - much appreciated info, esp having ridden on the car.
Regards all
PS Lars just in (hope you got to check out my recent dome links) - Pete - that BR Mk1 coaches book cover Lars posted - I say location Bristol Temple Meads Station - what about you?
BRING 'EM ON!!
Ruth my deAH, <brrrrrrrrrr> a chill in the air means I'm ready for a warm-up - put a double jolt in that coffee, wudja please? <grin> My, my - you ARE looooooooookin' mighty fine in that outfit you're almost wearing. <blush> Guess you're putting forward your best side for the anticipated crowd this evening, huh
Boris, feed the crittAHs ‘n don't forget to feed ‘em again B4 the tournament begins - it's gonna be a loooooooooong day! Yeah, yeah - you get the jar of PPF when done - make it the LARGE one!
Looks like Da Bossman has been mighty busy with catching up - I don't remember seeing it THIS busy for him in a loooooooooong time! Some good "stuff" in those posts, so I'm hoping the guys take the time to read ‘em . . .
By my count - we have 9 guys at the bar, with Fergie making 10 - but he's an irregular, irregular regular. <huh>> Anyway, the numbers are there - 9 guys helping to keep things ship shape - ‘n when they all drop in all at once, we have that "perfect storm" effect! That's why it seems like there's sooooooooo much material - because there IS!! <geesh> I'm STILL not caught up . . .
So here's the deal for me this week ‘n perhaps into the next . . . I'm gonna be short on exchanges of conversation, but I will provide covers ‘n photos - time permitting - hang in there with my guyz - got some things going on that simply keeps me from controlling my time. BUT I'll do my part to help keep the "flow" by showing up once per day . . . at least that's the plan! <grin>
Red Sox beat the tar outta the Rockies last night. What more needs to be said ‘bout that, huh Shane is grinning ear to ear!
Eric - I'll give you a buck three ninety eight for those extra mugs! <grin>
Pete - what IS IT with you ‘n cameras Really!! <geesh>
Glad the Brit covers "worked" for you ‘n appreciate the supplemental info you provided!
Used to be a radio show way back when people actually listed to it for more than talk shows - The Shadow was a hit show. That photo Cap'n Tom put up of you REALLY reminded me of it! <grin> Stealthy Pete "works" too . . .
Cap'n Tom - thanks for the trip report ‘n photos! Enjoying ‘em as you find the time to put ‘em up at the bar! Screw UP - youse guyz seem to always find a way to enjoy yourselves! Glad the trip was fun ‘n relaxing.
Good to see the "stuff" from Jan - Per - Ron - Rob ‘n Dan! CHEERS guyz, have one on ME!! Boris ring the bell!
Again, my apologies gentlemen - the further I fall behind, the behinder I get <or something like that!>
Ah, the arrival of the Larsman Mobile brings some MORE Brit book covers!
Brunel's Cornish Viaducts
British Railways Brakevans & Ballast Ploughs
British Railways Mark 1 Coaches
British Rail 1974-97 From Integration to Privatisation
British Rail Northern Scene - A 1970s Railway Album
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please (New England Four Seasons Blend); round for the house and $ for the jukebox. It's still raining here and we are well pleased with that. Gas is at $2.89/gal.
That was no ball game last night, it was an old-fashioned East Coast mugging. Let's see they play again tonight, BC is down the road at VaTech in football, and the darts tournament is upon us. Artie flew over this a.m. with a message from Our Reporter who said he has pitched a tent along the parade route. According to the message, the tent is fortified with sandbags and appropriately placed heavy weapons and other safety appliances. Hmmm.... Artie has more talents than we realized - maybe he worked at the Owlry at Hogwarts?
Lots to review this a.m.
Eric stopped by with photographs of the good china and some engineering material for the konstruktors at the bar.
Rob has been out and about. The Toronto C2 brought back some memories of some of the maintenance equipment in Boston. They had wire cars built from old street cars, side dumps, and crane cars that looked very similar to the one in your picture. I have no idea if any of that stuff is in service now. The small Peter Witt is one of my favorite TTC beasties. I enlarged the shot and was intrigued by the sign for Boat Races - sound good! Also thanks for ONR materials.
Lars, I knew you'd appreciate the award (lol). Bookmobile sure had some interesting items. The locomotive headboard book looks like a good one along with the engineering cyc. PRR used "headboards" on some of their locomotives and IIRC, also the L&N, but I'd have to do a little digging. Other roads had the train name on the sides of the tender. C&O and SAL both come to mind here.
Jan Stopped by - keep on keepin'on.
DL was here with a travelogue and pictures. The C*O diner lounge was especially appreciated. I do not have my car notes here, but IIRC, two of those cars were renamed "Dana" and "Metcalf" when they went to the B&O. Again, and I am truly relying on memory here, both of them went to ATK with the same names. One of them, "Dana," I think, was wrecked and cut up. So there you go.
Per - You picked a good time to be in Boston. IIRC, some of the elevated structure is between still in use between North Station and Lechmere. Interesting part about this is that it is concrete. Don't hold me to this as everything has changed so much because of the Money Pit construction I mentioned awhile back. Enjoy yourself.
Allan and Fergie both stopped by - Good to hear from you.
Pete - OMG! Lionel standard gauge in beautiful condition! I hope you were able to get some shots of the cars, too. Wow!
OSP stopped in with comments, travel report, pcitures, and reflections. Is that really Pete in the picture? Or is it the Shadow? Chocolate cobbler? What if we drown it in brandy? My mom used to make fruitcake which in addition to being excellent contained enough high octane material that it could take its place with anything at the bar. She also made Christmas pudding and home made hard sauce, which, believe me, was not for the fainthearted either. A few swallows of that, your arms and legs went numb, then oyur head, and you could deal with the relatives.
Cigar bands brought back some memories. You doubtless remember Overland Cigars from your time in Boston. They had a neat red and gold band, but what I liked best was the picture of the UP steam locomotive with appropriate cars which was on the inside of the box cover. Kind of resembled a Currier and Ives lithograph. It's funny what a phrase will bring back.
Work safe
Six to Go! - Number One
Here's a few fotos from my Oct 23rd trip to KCity ‘n back with Wolfman Pete . . .
<Trip Report on Page 130>
UP eastbound freight at Kirkwood, MO
Here comes the Kansas City Mule - Amtrak #311 at Kirkwood
Amtrak Amfleet Café Car # <that's Kristen our car attendant>
Business Class seating in the Café Car
More to follow - 6 at a time!
Bring ‘em on!
The 2nd Annual Dart's Challenge ‘n Grudge Match
begins tonite right here at "Our" Place!
We expect a full house, so come early - get your pitcher of brew, a vantage point, some munchies ‘n enjoy the competition!
The goons from The Second Class Saloon and their entourage are expected to arrive by means of the back door, which leads directly to the site of the match. Our pool room has been converted to accommodate the boyz who fling those pointy things!
The Mentor Village Home Defense League <a subsidiary of the Can-Am County Self-Defense and Pest Control Forces> is out in full force - you can't miss ‘em in their protective gear comprised of axes, maces and flails along with helmets, mail and shields.
Join Awk - Tex - Frostbite - Artie - and - Juneau
as we greet the thugs from The Second Class Saloon! <arrrrrrrrrggggggggghhhhhhhh>
As would be expected, The Mentor Village Street & Honey Dipper Dept. is hard at work - watch for the signs along the only road to "Our" Place!
National Anthems of Canada - U.S. - UK - Sweden - Norway - New Zealand and Slobovia performed by
"Our" Place Teams:
#1 The UK Connection of: What'd he say? - Pete (pwolfe) ‘n Kiwi's are Down Under - Allan (Gunneral)
#2 The Norsemen Duo of: I'm Oaring the Boat! - Lars (LoveDomes) ‘n Deserts are for Swedes! - Eric (EricX2000).
Alternate - Jan (JanOlov) Our Resident Swede in Scotland!
Ace Reporter: CM3 Shane - From high atop Mt. Mentor, we'll be treated once again to some fine reporting of the events as they unfold!
Cheerleading provided by Cindy 'n her Our Ladies of Perpetual Motion Social Club 'n Knitting Circle! [wow]
The Second Class Saloon Teams:
#1 Mo Lester (aka: Eunuch maker) ‘n Rock Pounder (aka: I got stones!)
#2 Lance Butts (aka: Watch your back!) ‘n Doug Graves (aka: Last stop!)
Alternate: Mountain Man Mike (Moose) - Proprietor of The Second Class Saloon
Bring 'em on!
siberianmo wrote: Second Class and Our Place matched each other dart for dart, drink for drink, claw hold for claw hold, body slam for body slam, well, you get the picture...Your reporter was, in fact, thinking about having to tear up the lead for this story and do a new one as it appeared we might have another tie. Proprietor's Note: Last year's teams were:"Our" Place Team #1 - Pete 'n RobTeam #2 - Nick 'n DougSubstitute - LarsAlternate Substitute - BKReporter - CM3The Avengers from the Second Class Saloon:Team #1 - John (slopehead) 'n Larry (scrote)Team #2 - Bob (cannibal) 'n Tim (tiny)Substitute - George (grommet)Sponsor: Mountain Man Mike (Moose) Proprietor
Second Class and Our Place matched each other dart for dart, drink for drink, claw hold for claw hold, body slam for body slam, well, you get the picture...Your reporter was, in fact, thinking about having to tear up the lead for this story and do a new one as it appeared we might have another tie.
Proprietor's Note: Last year's teams were:
"Our" Place
Team #1 - Pete 'n RobTeam #2 - Nick 'n DougSubstitute - LarsAlternate Substitute - BKReporter - CM3The Avengers from the Second Class Saloon:
Team #1 - John (slopehead) 'n Larry (scrote)Team #2 - Bob (cannibal) 'n Tim (tiny)Substitute - George (grommet)
Sponsor: Mountain Man Mike (Moose) Proprietor
Good Morning Capn Tom and Sundry
Pssst Tom... can you explain to me how this dart thingy is suppose to work? My replacement couldn't understand why the computer screen in the cabin had a hole in it
I think I'll have a feed of Kippers and Beans this morning please and thanks.
Tom: loved the article on the Turbo as I remebered hearing about them as a kid and all the woes they had with them.
Bob: A shame about the Northlander. On weekends we use to visit my Grandparents outside of Newmarket and I remember Dad taking me to the Tracks for 9pm just to watch her scream by. quite the sight for a 9 yr old.
Anyway I'm signed off and home back into the renos so it will be a very busy time!
Here's a site that I'm sure Tom will love! it is part of the international VOS (vessel Observation System) which tracks ship's weather reports around the globe.
www.sailwx.info
Hudson's link is
http://www.sailwx.info/shiptrack/shipposition.phtml?call=cgdg
Anyway I have work to do
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
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