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2008 and the Coffee Pot is still on and over 3 years. Here we gather as friends with trains. Sweet ice tea too. Locked

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Posted by johnandjulie13 on Friday, February 29, 2008 6:29 PM
 RockIsland52 wrote:

Finally, I've read reviews that say satellite HD provides a better HD picture because cable providers compress their signal.

Signal compression is done by both cable and satellite companies (not to mention the networks).  My biggest beef with Comcast is that they cannot come to an agreement with the Big 10 regarding the Big 10 network.  As a lowly Northwestern fan, there were four games I couldn't watch last year because they were on the Big 10 network.  Angry [:(!]

Many of my neighbors have Direct TV.  While I am envious of their channel selections, the number of signal outages they suffer makes me glad I still have cable.

Regards,

John

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Posted by RockIsland52 on Friday, February 29, 2008 5:40 PM

Buckeye,

What made you decide to switch to satellite?

I've had Comcast digital cable for TV and internet access forever, but I'm tired of the incessant price increases.  My SIL and daughter switched to satellite (DirectTV also) a while back, partially because he likes the sports packages they provide.

They believe you get more for less on the TV end of things with satellite.  They only have a reception issue 2-3 times per year, or when the guy working on the roof wacks the dish with his ladder.

With the satellite, they wound up eating their purchased box when they got HD because they bought the box versus renting one.  In the swap they picked up.....TIVO, I believe.

Then there are the TV commercial wars between the two companies over which one has the most HD: channels versus programs, etc.

Finally, I've read reviews that say satellite HD provides a better HD picture because cable providers compress their signal.

Thanks,

Jack

IF IT WON'T COME LOOSE BY TAPPING ON IT, DON'T TRY TO FORCE IT. USE A BIGGER HAMMER.

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Posted by dougdagrump on Friday, February 29, 2008 5:35 PM
 lionroar88 wrote:
 dougdagrump wrote:

 lionroar88 wrote:
 fifedog wrote:
88 - Parting with your F-3's...? Huh...? Wha...?


Fife - I haven't decided yet. I really like them, but I've decided to scrap DCS from my plans... the Yellowbelly will soon be getting a ERR Upgrade as will the B&O Cow and Calf. I haven't decided what to do with the RS-1, F-3s, and WM GP-7s (the only other MTH products in my stable).

While I really like them all I don't need them all. Especially the RS-1 since I have the Cow and Calf. The F-3s I would need to add 2 motors to so they will be more useful on the layout.

I think the GP-7s will just be put on an elevated layout some time... but I do need to get them out and charge the battery... (the battery being one of the reasons I'm scraping DCS, that and the price of the DCS system).

Brent, Before parting with your PS2 power, if you are planning on TMCC only is it possible to incorporate TPC's into your wiring plan. They give you excellent control of PS2 equipment only in a conventional mode. 



Doug,
Not sure what I'm going to do yet... tough decision... I have so many engines and so little room on the layout for all of them...

That just means you will have to spend more time runnin' when the layout is complete. Don't want any of them to feel neglected. Clown [:o)]

Anyplace below the main level for an engine yard, not for display strictly utilitarian no fancy track or ballast. Just a place to park an engine, plus you could getaway with a bit steeper grade if only engines 

Remember the Veterans. Past, present and future.

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Posted by Buckeye Riveter on Friday, February 29, 2008 5:01 PM

For Lent I gave up Time Warner Cable. Big Smile [:D]

We are getting DirectTV tomorrow.

Does this mean I will be able to watch those railroad shows that many of you talk about to make me green with envy? Confused [%-)]

Celebrating 18 years on the CTT Forum. Smile, Wink & Grin

Buckeye Riveter......... OTTS Charter Member, a Roseyville Raider and a member of the CTT Forum since 2004..

Jelloway Creek, OH - ELV 1,100 - Home of the Baltimore, Ohio & Wabash RR

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Posted by CSXect on Friday, February 29, 2008 2:27 PM

Good afternoon everyone. Spring is getting closer and so does construction of my first permanet layoutYeah!! [yeah] Still layed off may get back to work the 10thThumbs Up [tup] Weightwise I think I have hit that dreaded platue need to increase water intake and exersize.

 

 

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Posted by Anonymous on Friday, February 29, 2008 2:07 PM
 dougdagrump wrote:

 lionroar88 wrote:
 fifedog wrote:
88 - Parting with your F-3's...? Huh...? Wha...?


Fife - I haven't decided yet. I really like them, but I've decided to scrap DCS from my plans... the Yellowbelly will soon be getting a ERR Upgrade as will the B&O Cow and Calf. I haven't decided what to do with the RS-1, F-3s, and WM GP-7s (the only other MTH products in my stable).

While I really like them all I don't need them all. Especially the RS-1 since I have the Cow and Calf. The F-3s I would need to add 2 motors to so they will be more useful on the layout.

I think the GP-7s will just be put on an elevated layout some time... but I do need to get them out and charge the battery... (the battery being one of the reasons I'm scraping DCS, that and the price of the DCS system).

Brent, Before parting with your PS2 power, if you are planning on TMCC only is it possible to incorporate TPC's into your wiring plan. They give you excellent control of PS2 equipment only in a conventional mode. 



Doug,
Not sure what I'm going to do yet... tough decision... I have so many engines and so little room on the layout for all of them...
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Posted by dougdagrump on Friday, February 29, 2008 1:55 PM

 lionroar88 wrote:
 fifedog wrote:
88 - Parting with your F-3's...? Huh...? Wha...?


Fife - I haven't decided yet. I really like them, but I've decided to scrap DCS from my plans... the Yellowbelly will soon be getting a ERR Upgrade as will the B&O Cow and Calf. I haven't decided what to do with the RS-1, F-3s, and WM GP-7s (the only other MTH products in my stable).

While I really like them all I don't need them all. Especially the RS-1 since I have the Cow and Calf. The F-3s I would need to add 2 motors to so they will be more useful on the layout.

I think the GP-7s will just be put on an elevated layout some time... but I do need to get them out and charge the battery... (the battery being one of the reasons I'm scraping DCS, that and the price of the DCS system).

Brent, Before parting with your PS2 power, if you are planning on TMCC only is it possible to incorporate TPC's into your wiring plan. They give you excellent control of PS2 equipment only in a conventional mode. 

Remember the Veterans. Past, present and future.

www.sd3r.org

Proud New Member Of The NRA

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Posted by Sturgeon-Phish on Friday, February 29, 2008 1:37 PM

Afternoon all,

I've been reading along not doing much posting.  Staying busy at work.  Working OT today, making 64 hours this week, covering for one of the guys who covers for me when I take off for class, so I figured it was the least I could do.  Uncle Sam will like the contribution too.

Got to run trains the other night.  Had a different loco on and the link coupler kept uncoupling, after a little tweaking, it is staying coupled OK. 

Got to go,

May God bless

Jim

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Posted by Anonymous on Friday, February 29, 2008 1:25 PM
 fifedog wrote:
88 - Parting with your F-3's...? Huh...? Wha...?


Fife - I haven't decided yet. I really like them, but I've decided to scrap DCS from my plans... the Yellowbelly will soon be getting a ERR Upgrade as will the B&O Cow and Calf. I haven't decided what to do with the RS-1, F-3s, and WM GP-7s (the only other MTH products in my stable).

While I really like them all I don't need them all. Especially the RS-1 since I have the Cow and Calf. The F-3s I would need to add 2 motors to so they will be more useful on the layout.

I think the GP-7s will just be put on an elevated layout some time... but I do need to get them out and charge the battery... (the battery being one of the reasons I'm scraping DCS, that and the price of the DCS system).
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Posted by ChiefEagles on Friday, February 29, 2008 1:10 PM
 RockIsland52 wrote:

By the way, it was 9 this morning and we're going to get another dump of snow tonight, 6+ inches.  Winter won't quit.  That sunscreen is still sitting on the closet shelf.

Jack

Told you, don't mess with Mother Nature and the Chief. Whistling [:-^]  Shirt sleeves this afternoon.  60's tomorrow and Sunday.  MN, take care of those Yanks for me. Laugh [(-D]

Back to the store.  Been crowded all day.  Chargers seling great.  Checked with the gang at the other BPS stores and they are dragging.  Just ate lunch.  Was so busy I did not realize it was after noon.  Later

 God bless TCA 05-58541   Benefactor Member of the NRA,  Member of the American Legion,   Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville Laugh,   KC&D QualifiedCowboy       

              

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Posted by fifedog on Friday, February 29, 2008 12:05 PM
88 - Parting with your F-3's...? Huh...? Wha...?
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Posted by GregM on Friday, February 29, 2008 11:10 AM
 Blueberryhill RR wrote:

I almost bought a Harley, once.  But I spent the money on aluminum siding. LOL  Banged Head [banghead]  ( Just like the commercial ).

Chuck

 

Then I caution you to not take the Harley factory tour if you visit York, PA.  My wife Karen, who doesn't like motorcycles, was ready to buy one.  Fortunately, I can't afford one.

GregM
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Posted by GregM on Friday, February 29, 2008 11:06 AM
 anjdevil2 wrote:

Besides, I'd rather have a steamer by Lionel.....

 

Rich,

I have sent you an email.

GregM
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Posted by RockIsland52 on Friday, February 29, 2008 9:40 AM
 anjdevil2 wrote:
 dbaker48 wrote:

One comment regarding the oil and energy issue.  I get so tired of the liberals coming up with all the laws and bans for various products and activities in the interest of the environment, and human good.  I enjoy muscle cars, and if I can afford it, then I will, don't need someone telling me I can't.  Everyone yearns for the "old" days, most people took care of themselves, and were responsible for themselves as well.  The only improvement that I see is in civil rights, and even that gets abused. 

Sign - Ditto [#ditto]Bow [bow]

 

Didn't mean to "go off", but someone asked....(sort of)

Rich, you misunderstood.  We said "Release the hounds."   Big Smile [:D]

I already drive a HYBRID...it burns GAS & RUBBER!!! Whistling [:-^]

If we had paved roads up my way we might actually be able to enjoy driving.  This time of year the potholes are winning and wreak havoc on the alloys and sidewalls.

Have a great day gang.

You do the same.

Rich

By the way, it was 9 this morning and we're going to get another dump of snow tonight, 6+ inches.  Winter won't quit.  That sunscreen is still sitting on the closet shelf.

Jack

IF IT WON'T COME LOOSE BY TAPPING ON IT, DON'T TRY TO FORCE IT. USE A BIGGER HAMMER.

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Posted by Anonymous on Friday, February 29, 2008 9:10 AM

Rich,
Sent you an email.

Mornin' fellas - rough morning... got to work and had a critical error to fix. 2.5 hours later, code changed, database updated, application enhancements inplace, problem solved. Everyone happy as a peach and then some (due to enhancements being rolled out 2 weeks ahead of schedule). Thumbs Up [tup]

I ordered 1/2 the rotary switches I'll need and another batch of track. That should get me done with half the second level mockup! To get the rest done I'll have to get 2 more switches, a new bridge, and a boat load of track, if I  want to do it all at one time... so I'll probably pick up one switch and some of the track over the next few weeks. That will get me up to the second level of the second level... Then I'll need the bridge to complete that work. So I have to get some stuff posted on EBay, unless someone is interested here is the list:

MTH 40-1031       1-Track Steel Arch Bridge (Rust)
MTH 30-2624-1    Railking Baltimore & Ohio RS-1 (PS-2)
MTH 33-2003-1    Chessie F-3 A-A (PS-2)
MTH 33-2003-3    Chessie F-3 B (non-powered) (sold as a set with above)

Lionel  6-11109    C&O 0-8-0

If interested please email me.

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Posted by cnw1995 on Friday, February 29, 2008 9:00 AM

Morning all. More snow last night. I am impressed with the civility of our discussions on energy and autos. Personally, I think we should all ride Vespas Wink [;)]

Milestone yesterday: called to sign up the middle boy for high school. He's been 'home-schooled' so far.

Don, I'm re-reading some 'prototype operations' books and taking from them some ideas to try creating more of a 'game' (sometimes) when running the layout: pull a card - do its activity or react to its event. It's fun! And better then getting a headache trying to figure out B&O signals. LOL

Doug Murphy 'We few, we happy few, we band of brothers...' Henry V.

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Posted by sir james I on Friday, February 29, 2008 8:51 AM

Good Morning All

Well it's snowing again 2 to 3 expected.Fifth snowest Feb. on record. I blame the rebs,don't know why,just do.I'm sure they had something to do with it.

Chief-if you had grits this morning,you should stop somewhere and have a decent breakfast.

I'm going to watch the snow and try to clean up the train room,,,,Later  S.J.

"IT's GOOD TO BE THE KING",by Mel Brooks 

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Posted by Blueberryhill RR on Friday, February 29, 2008 8:43 AM
 RockIsland52 wrote:
 Blueberryhill RR wrote:

Maybe they should start making more Motor Scooters. I nice Cushman Eagle would work good. I had one years ago.

Chuck,

I envisioned you a Harley guy.  Cool [8D]

Jack

Jack,

I almost bought a Harley, once.  But I spent the money on aluminum siding. LOL  Banged Head [banghead]  ( Just like the commercial ).

Chuck

Chuck # 3 I found my thrill on Blueberryhill !!
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Posted by RockIsland52 on Friday, February 29, 2008 7:50 AM
 Blueberryhill RR wrote:

Maybe they should start making more Motor Scooters. I nice Cushman Eagle would work good. I had one years ago.

Chuck,

I envisioned you a Harley guy.  Cool [8D]

Jack

IF IT WON'T COME LOOSE BY TAPPING ON IT, DON'T TRY TO FORCE IT. USE A BIGGER HAMMER.

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Posted by cheapclassics on Friday, February 29, 2008 7:37 AM

Good morning all,

It is a mixed bag of precipitation in SE Indiana with temps in the 30s today.  It was an interesting drive into work (with flashbacks to last week!), but made it in ok.  If any one has a spouse wanting to see "Atonement", do whatever is necessary to avoid it.  It was the last night for the run at the local bijou and my wife wanted to go.  Fortunately, she found a girl friend to go with her and she said it was a very disappointing movie.  Dodged another bullet.  I went to the YMCA instead and watched "Lost", which is getting very strange indeed.  At least there was a happy ending (at least, temporarily) for Desmond.  Unlike the Chief, I had a decent and GRITS-free breakfast this morning on the dining car.  I hope everyone has a good day.

Keep on training,

Mike C. from Indiana

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Posted by fifedog on Friday, February 29, 2008 7:30 AM

Mornin' boys. Okay..

dbaker48 - be careful, for once you journey down the "operations" DARK SIDE, there is no return.  It is your destiny...

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Posted by ChiefEagles on Friday, February 29, 2008 7:10 AM
Morning.  Slept good [the second time too].  Rich, I would prefer a steamer by Lionel too. Whistling [:-^]  What Hybrid do you drive? Wink [;)]  Getting ready to go to the store.  Hope all have a great day.  BTW: the dinning car served GRITS. Shock [:O]  

 God bless TCA 05-58541   Benefactor Member of the NRA,  Member of the American Legion,   Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville Laugh,   KC&D QualifiedCowboy       

              

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Posted by anjdevil2 on Friday, February 29, 2008 6:56 AM
 dbaker48 wrote:

One comment regarding the oil and energy issue.  I get so tired of the liberals coming up with all the laws and bans for various products and activities in the interest of the environment, and human good.  I enjoy muscle cars, and if I can afford it, then I will, don't need someone telling me I can't.  Everyone yearns for the "old" days, most people took care of themselves, and were responsible for themselves as well.  The only improvement that I see is in civil rights, and even that gets abused. 

Sign - Ditto [#ditto]Bow [bow]

Another cool and crisp one here in NE FLA. 

Didn't mean to "go off", but someone asked....(sort of)

lionroar88 wrote:
Rich,
I'll take it off your hands for $150.00 Wink [;)] or I'll trade you an MTH B&O RS-3

Brent, that would be great, if I didn't want to take a $100 loss on the deal.  Maybe I can turn it around on the 'bay or just keep it.  I dunno why I did it, I just did (brain melt). Besides, I'd rather have a steamer by Lionel.....Whistling [:-^]

Hey StubbsO, be careful out there, I'll be workin' on the '73 Satellite and burnin' rubber in your honor!

Which, in light of the current topic, I'll say this:

I already drive a HYBRID...it burns GAS & RUBBER!!!Whistling [:-^]

Have a great day gang.

Rich

I am the monster in your head...And I thought you'd learn by now, It seems you haven't yet.
I am the venom in your skin  --- Breaking Benjamin


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Posted by Blueberryhill RR on Friday, February 29, 2008 6:27 AM

Good Morning from Blueberryhill....

It is 24 degrees. Light snow. Going up to 39, today, with snow changing o light rain. Then, tonite, is is getting colder, and changing back to snow. That's a really crazy weather report.

Today, I have some errands to run, locally. Then, I will relax and run trains, this afternoon. I need the fun time. Been a long winter and it's still here. Ready to cut grass again. Not much else new here.

Dining car has arrived and it's " All Aboard " for breakfast. Later.

Y'all have a great Friday.

Chuck

Chuck # 3 I found my thrill on Blueberryhill !!
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Posted by ChiefEagles on Friday, February 29, 2008 1:46 AM
OH OH, went to sleep watching movie.  Now shut down computer and go back to sleep.  Don, go look in the bins with drawers.  RS should have about two to three to each store. Banged Head [banghead]  I order mine now and they come with gold posts [Question [?]].  Running trains, I like doing exactly what you are talking about.  Figure some routes and "drop offs and pickups".  Off to bed again.

 God bless TCA 05-58541   Benefactor Member of the NRA,  Member of the American Legion,   Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville Laugh,   KC&D QualifiedCowboy       

              

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Posted by dbaker48 on Friday, February 29, 2008 12:47 AM

Good Evening All.....

Had a busy day, went into the office, shipped a bunch of stuff. Then got the afternoon off !!!  Went to a "not so favorite" LHS, just to get some track screws.  Of course they didn't have any don't carry them either.  The only they have is nails.  Asked about a catalog, and they wanted $2 each.  So didn't say anything just walked out.

Then over to Radio Shack to see about some banana connectors, of course they don't know what I'm talking about and don't have them either.

So back home and mowed the lawn and did some trimming.  (5 lawn size bags).  Everything is growing like crazy since we had all the rain and now 75-80 degree weather. 

Think I'm having a philosophical reversal on some train operating opinions.  I looked at some various videos about guys that simulate protypical train operations and previously thought it was almost insane.  After going toour train club for a couple of years, the only thing that is done is running around in a 1500 foor circle following each other.  The most sifnificant concern is not rear ending anyone or being rear ended.   Seems "some" prototypicall activity could be interesting, configuring a train, trying to run a brief schedule, make some predefined drop offs, and return.  Will need to think on that.

Glad to hear the school board issue and all the "forms" got resolved.

Sorry to hear about Dennis' dog, loss is always tough to handle.

One comment regarding the oil and energy issue.  I get so tired of the liberals coming up with all the laws and bans for various products and activities in the interest of the environment, and human good.  I enjoy muscle cars, and if I can afford it, then I will, don't need someone telling me I can't.  Everyone yearns for the "old" days, most people took care of themselves, and were responsible for themselves as well.  The only improvement that I see is in civil rights, and even that gets abused. 

  My 2 cents [2c]SoapBox [soapbox]

Later 

 

 

Don

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Posted by Brutus on Thursday, February 28, 2008 9:03 PM
Cold and raining/sleeting again in St. Louis.  Oh well, no sticking or accumulation expected and if it's bad tomorrow and school is cancelled, it won't break my heart to call in and take off, LOL.  Wife has been taking off with the kids every sick and snow day now for over a month and we have never used so many snow days in such a short few weeks at our school, so she really got Confused [%-)]  I was up too late last night and need to make it an early night, so you guys go on without me and God bless.

RIP Chewy - best dog I ever had.

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Posted by sir james I on Thursday, February 28, 2008 9:02 PM

EVENING AL

No breaking news today. just checking in and grab a decaf,bedtime you know. We have ice cream and soda pop,just stop in. Good nite Chewy,,,,S.J.

"IT's GOOD TO BE THE KING",by Mel Brooks 

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Posted by stubbsO on Thursday, February 28, 2008 8:58 PM
You guys know I don't post much, but I do lurk everyday to see what's up. I have put up the train for the season, dug them out after T-giving and won't come out till then, but will be kit-bashin stuff while diggin in the garden, flyin, meloanomin while gardenin, playin with Mopars, etc. Don't forget me in the off season. Im leavin on a Air Force trip to Hickalulu, and down under, and when not workin there and around a machine, I'll be watchin you all in the shadows and will be throwin in my 2$ when I have something to say or have a question. I don't every follow this tread cause it's alot of the same stuff day in and out. But will check in here and there. Don't let Casey run the throttle and cause a crash, but haul A$$ just the same. Chow for now. Stubbs
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Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, February 28, 2008 8:18 PM
 anjdevil2 wrote:

BTW...and Mel (RRCharlie, don't even SPEAK about this) I had a brain fart today and bought a Legacy system.  And I only have 1 TMCC engine.  Man, I'm Dumb...Hey Roger B, Make sure they get that thing to me in 1 piece!!!  (anyone wanna Legacy???Banged Head [banghead]Sigh [sigh])



Rich,
I'll take it off your hands for $150.00 Wink [;)] or I'll trade you an MTH B&O RS-3?

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