The Coffee Shop (a place to chat) Est. 2004

[Anonymous]

Down here in Illinois we start in late August.

We got 14 days for Christmas this year (although we usually get 12)

We only get a good spring break if we don't use any snow days, and due to Illinois winters, and the wimpiness of the faculty(who for the most part lives right in town, doesn't get all of the wind right along with snow like me out in the country), we rarely use no snow days at all unless it's a very mild winter.

One thing though, train watching is better in winter here-I can just walk half a mile through some fields, then you're right by the KCS's St. Louis Sub. There's practically no good railfanning spots here that are along a road or any public place. About all there even is in town are a few sidings to the grain elevators and an anhydrous tank, trains rarely stop here except for a few night-time locals every couple of weeks, most are run-throughs bound for St. Louis. So there goes any chance I have of getting a KCS cab ride.[sigh]

[Noah Hofrichter]

Yeah, but when do you guys start school. For us its the Tuesday after laybor day, and we don't get much of a spring break at all. We get eight days for christmas too.

Noah

[Anonymous]

Ha! I'm out of school already.
Have been since 27th of May.

[Noah Hofrichter]

To respond to what Jim said, I just ignore and don't bother to post or even visit topics that "Flare Up'' untill Bergie locks them so I don't put my two cents in when I shouldn't have and End up offending someone or being offended. Works for me.'

Todays magic number:

2

Only 2 more days of school left. Tomarrow we've got a very weird program playi***ype thing, and how I dread it. I love to sing, and I think I'm fairly good at it, according to class- mates, but the things our music drector thinks up are always amied way to young for us. There aimed at more 3rd or fourth graders and not 7th almost 8th graders like I am. But..... I do my best anyway, and go with it.

I'm happy with my new stars, not to boast or anything, but I'm proud to have my green stars(finally)!

Noah

[Anonymous]

hey lupo-

Addams Ave Part 4 appears to be a redo of an existing kit w/ , according to the ad copy, enhanced quality (and added components) from orig, release. I haven't got mine yet, but will order it soon, along w/ Wicked Wandas. - I'll let you know what I think of it when it arrives. (I saw an ad for it in Short Line & Narrow Gauge Gazette in current issue.)

Now if I can just find a way to incorporate a dock area or port on the "forever getting further and further from the prototype, but far more fun", version of L&Ns 'Hook & Eye' Line ! Don't think I'll get any encouragement from the L&N historical society for that idea - so nevermind, but I guess a 'cat house' district would be okay. . .

Gotta go ; coffee ran out and it's time to get to work. . .Later, BILL

[n2mopac]

Good day all. I know I havn't been around much lately. I hope you missed me. [8D] Truth is, my wife is delivering our third child via c-section Thursday morning and things have been NUTS!!! around our house for the past week or so as you parents can imagine. These events following the untimely and disasterous encounter with a Trojan Horse that resulted in a total system restore and the lack of a computer for 3 days has meant that I have had time for little more than a quick glance here over the past couple of weeks. Rest assured, however, that in a week or so I will be back. I have to get that new little model railroader here first.
Ron

[Anonymous]

It is a new Day. [:)]

A new work week. [:(]

And I am looking forward to new adventures. [:D]

Coffee is ready and so am I. [8D]

Everyone, HAVE A GREAT DAY . [:)]

btw, my 3985 pics turned out super. I emailed Bergie 18 of them and hope to see some as Photo of the Day this week. Wish me luck. [:)]

[Fergmiester]

Bill I'm sorry to here about your loss.

As for the flaming it won't go away it's some peoples nature hopefully we can all jump in and keep it under control and respectful. I go away to Scout camp for a weekend and miss a bit of excitement! Hmfffff!

On to positive note I got an E-mail from Dave (Snake) yesterday and he's doing OK. He's just had a loss in the family and is taking care of family related business. I told him about our little Coofee shop so hopefully he'll drop by in the near future.

It's a large day here as the sun is shining and it's warming up, rode my bike this morning (10km) so hopefully this is a sign of things to come. Chiken Grills on the Barbie for tonight!!

[lupo]

QUOTE: Originally posted by bill mathewson

Now can we get back to talking about wilted lettuce, Indy racing, cat houses, or even something different such as trains? BILL

Bill, I saw you mention Downtown Deco Addams Avenue part 4 in one of your posts, that is a new one! do you have it allready ? how is it?

[Anonymous]

Thank you everybody for your kind remarks concerning my nephew. He is a very special sensitive and quiet man and a devoted father who loved the ocean - swimmming, snorkeling and surfing every chance he had. I find myself writing and talking about him both in the past and the present tense, such is my state of mind these days. He named his first born daughter after my son, and that in itself says legions about how close we have been over the years, even if separated by a continent and an ocean for the past four years.

And I sincerely appreciate the comments made by many of you re: the latest flame war, and I only wi***hat something more positive had taken up our time and emotions. It probably helps clear out the cobwebs a bit, and provides an opportunity for some brief introspection, which I guess we all need once in awhile, so it wasn't a total waste of time for me.

You're a good bunch of people and I'll strive to remain an active contributor, as well as an attentive learner. . .And Elliot - I do owe you one - thanks for intervention.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Now can we get back to talking about wilted lettuce, Indy racing, cat houses, or even something different such as trains? BILL

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by dave9999

Elliot,
My appologies. I was worried that you may have taken offense to my post on the other topic. I guess I jump to conculsions. Kinda easy to do when communicating through a forum. Not as clear sometimes as face to face.
Dave

Dave [8D]

You are so right. [:p] The written word does not have the voice inflection of the spoken word therefore it is very easy to read something a way in which it was not intended. However, the emoticons do help show some emotion which is helpful in easing a situation and letting people know that you were joking or whatever. [:p] [;)]




Earlier today I was "for sure" that the new "star" topic would have to be locked or removed. Now it looks like the skirmish is over. No forums needs or wants a war. I have witnessed several and have tried to help in this one by being positive and hoping that it would be contagous. Bergie doesn't like to be the "enforcer" but sometimes must be it anyway. If we all tried to do as I suggested in the "star" topic and would leave the forum better than we found it, there wouldn't be a need for an enforcer. I am sure that many of you would agree that I do try to be positive and encouraging, but some in our forums do not do so and some even try to go the negative way by starting something and then keeping it going.

This skirmish involved adults but some have involved kids and I am not thinking about Doggy. I don't care to see any skirmish and especially not those that involve the young people. [:(]

Believe it or not I was personally attacked late last year. This wasn't in the MR forum and many probally don't know of the attack. Everyone who read the attack was astonished that I was attacked. Many others came to my aid and the "forum family" was definately on my side. After all was said and done the attacker said the attack was meant as a joke and wound up leaving the forums. Ever since that happened I have been very careful to make sure I didn't ever respond to another attack the way I responded to the first one. We all live in learn and I learned the hard way from that one. I, nor anyone else, wanted the attacker to leave the forums but he did.

You see me use the "smileys" alot, not only to they help break the ice or tension but they create an "air" of goodwill. [:)] Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can leave a festering wound that "hurts" for years. Hopefuly we won't see another skirmish, but even as positive as I am, I am positive that before long we will. That my friends is life. So let's everyone do our part to help and encourage and not throw sticks and stones or even worse--hurtful comments.

I pledge to do my part. [:)]

How about you?

[Big_Boy_4005]

QUOTE: Originally posted by dave9999

Elliot,
My appologies. I was worried that you may have taken offense to my post on the other topic. I guess I jump to conculsions. Kinda easy to do when communicating through a forum. Not as clear sometimes as face to face.
Dave

No problem Dave. This medium can be tricky, and as hard as I try, sometimes my messages aren't perfectly clear. It takes practice, and I'm getting plenty.[swg]

[Big_Boy_4005]

QUOTE: Originally posted by lupo


Elliot, BigBoy_4005 you are right, just let the Bill Carl's star topic die-out.
we have been trough all this enough.
btw: I read a sort of apology and explanation from Bill Brasky yesterday on the other forum, what did you make of that ?

Mr Braskey is a bit of a puzzle, if he isn't sincere, he's a really good liar. I want to believe him, and give him the benefit of the doubt, but if I ever find out I was duped, I'll be pretty ticked off. Wait and see.

[dave9999]

Elliot,
My appologies. I was worried that you may have taken offense to my post on the other topic. I guess I jump to conculsions. Kinda easy to do when communicating through a forum. Not as clear sometimes as face to face.
Dave

[egmurphy]

Lupo - in your vast collection of gif's, do you happen to have one of a scorpion? Doesn't need to be animated.

Thanks

Ed

[Big_Boy_4005]

Dave, I consider you a friend and a real part of the gang here. My remark was an observation about the other party to the action in the recent unpleasantness. Mr Carl has been registered for almost a year and a half. Perhaps he's just more of a lurker, but lurking is not the same in my mind as contributing. In spite of any past incidents, you are a real contributor to this forum, and a good guy. As far as I'm concearned, "the battle of the Bills" is over.

A few strong words may have been difficult for some to hear, but in the end WE solved this problem without any intervention from the staff. THAT SHOULD ALWAYS BE OUR GOAL!!! Staff intervention is the course of LAST resort. I have never come close to contacting Bregie over a members conduct, but the mere mention of it does get peoples attention.

Only one or two people here know the story of the OGR forum because it happened over on CTT. I have been through much worse than this, and have on one other occasion felt the need to resort to this approach.

As unpleasant as it may sound, it does work, but I don't use it lightly. This was only the second time in over 2000 posts, and nothing would please me more than never witinessing another situation where the thought even enters my mind.

I just checked out the topic and put in what I hope will be the final post. Thanks for your support everyone.

Sincerely,
Elliot

[Roadtrp]

Dave,

I don't think Elliot was talking about you, but I guess only he knows for sure.

[dave9999]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Big_Boy_4005

Bill, I too am sorry to hear that about your nephew.



Along comes a person who has been a member for a long time, much longer than me or you, but has not been active. He starts to comment about what goes on around here. The point is that he may know EVERYTHING about trains, but he knows little about the FORUM or it's etiquette.

Elliot,
This is where you are wrong. Just because I don't have 2000 post doesn't mean I'm not active.
Also, just because you don't always see my name at the bottom of the screen doesn't mean I'm
not here. Most of the time I won't even log-on unless I have something to say.
I followed the DOGGY/CSXENGINEER thing and it was ugly to say the least, but this thing that
was going on with DARTH9X9 was small by comparision. I just didn't see the need to bring up
Bergie and boost about your connections. Personally I don't care if you email him about it, I
just thought It was excessive.
And I agree he should not have singled out Mr. Mathewson and if you have read the topic since
you will see he's still acting up.
Also, you can use my name in your post, when you say " along comes a person" I feel like you
don't care[;)]

And if you weren't refering to me....nevermind[:I][oops]

[Big_Boy_4005]

Bill, I too am sorry to hear that about your nephew.

You really have no need to apologize for your response in the star topic. You were attacked for no appearant reason, and were only defending yourself. I noticed it, but didn't say anything until after Dave V (F J and G) made mention of it. This is a perfect illustration of what the stars do mean.

Along comes a person who has been a member for a long time, much longer than me or you, but has not been active. He starts to comment about what goes on around here. The point is that he may know EVERYTHING about trains, but he knows little about the FORUM or it's etiquette.

I am pleased to see that you have chosen to take the moral high ground here. We can all learn from this experience, as unpleasant as it has been. Thanks for your help.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by jhhtrainsplanes

Bill M

I am sooo sorry to hear about your nehpew. May God comfort your family as the search continues.

We all hope and pray for a miracle for your family but whatever the outcome we are here for you.

[#ditto][tup]
This was difficult to read...and very sad. My prayers go out to you and your family Bill M.

[Anonymous]

Bill M

I am sooo sorry to hear about your nehpew. May God comfort your family as the search continues.

We all hope and pray for a miracle for your family but whatever the outcome we are here for you.

[lupo]

hi there ! while I am allready enjoying the nice dutch sunset I watched the 2816 thundering by, followed by: 1 an extra coal tender, some modern diesel ( have to return to school to keep those modern diesels apart ) and an FA and FB ? maybe you can fill me in? Nice work Gordon !

---

Bill, I think you do not need to aplogize at all, there should be only one apologising overhere, but I doubt if he will do that.

I am sorry to hear about your nephew, I wish you and your family strenght in dealing with this.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Noah Hofrichter

Andrew, I envy you. The pine series 10-6 sleeper car in the Superchief set is a model of a car that the WSOR now owns. They bought it from amtrak who bought it from Santa fe. I want to get a model of the car but to me $40.00 is alitle to much considering my buget. I saw it recently and sent a pic of it to the Fallen flags railroad;



They call it the Notre Dame sleeper car. They refinished the inside and now use the car for inspection trains on the railroad.

Good Afternoon, Noah. Thanks for sharing that pic.

I agree that $40 bucks is expensive when you're watching the dollars. It meant a lot to me to get the subscription for the Super Chief so I bit the bullet. I even saved more money buy getting it through Internet Trains as opposed to ordering direct from Walthers.

(sigh) So many trains...so little time (and sometimes cash). [:)]

[Anonymous]

good afternoon everybody,

I've got but a minute because today is start of "painting season" at my house, and since we recently bought a house w/ the most awful paint colors inside - really, really ugly - I'm actually looking forward to this project, even if it means a delay in my starting my 'forever dreamed about, but finally about to become a reality' layout - just got my first basement since leaving the nest in the mid '60s !

Anyway, just a quick reply to all, esp to Big_Boy_4005 - I completely agree w/ you re: just allowing the sound of one hand clapping to fade away and watch the topic sink further back into the archives. . .My skin is certainly thick enough to handle an occasionial zinger - it's the principle of the thing that gets to me sometimes, esp when it is obvious that a particular poster has assumed a holier than thou posture and starts beating on someone more insecure or sensitive than they are. The ol' bully profile acted out in cyber space. I have jumped in on such discussions in the past, and as recently as a week or so ago, when it was obvious that someone was being a jerk towards another Forem member. I handled that with a simple email offline and it stopped as far as I can tell.

I apologize to everyone and anyone if I responded a bit too strongly, but it was the wrong thing for me to read on that day, since I had just learned of the disappearance of my 34 yr old nephew. He hasn't been seen in 9 days since he went swimming in Maui, and is presumed to have drowned. The police have called off the search, although family members haven't given up on the hope that he is okay somewhere. Not knowing is the toughest esp for my eldely mother and my sister, and I feel somewhat helpless here in Atlanta thousands of miles away. It has been a big help to my being able to cope with this loss by spending time on this Forum this past week amongst 'friends'. I don't offer this as an excuse for 'zinging' back - I just may nave 'zinged back' a little too sharply. Probably should have just typed a 'raspberrry' sound out on the keys and pointed a certain finger in the general direction of Maryland..

Don't know about you guys and gals, but I'.ve had my fill of that subject and now it's time to start prepping for paint. Need some more coffee first, however.
BILL

[philnrunt]

Noah- could this be SPRING WATER? That you could BOTTLE? And sell at a reasonable small mark-up over wholesale? And use the millions that would pour in( no pun intended) to build a new home on stilts?
You've got the name already-Noah's Nocturnal Seepage Health Tonic. (I figured after using the word seepage, you had better throw health or tonic in, so why not use both).
You could say it was" osmotically concrete filtered by natures own gravity" or some such claim.
No, no, don't thank me, just trying to watch out for you!

[Noah Hofrichter]

Andrew, I envy you. The pine series 10-6 sleeper car in the Superchief set is a model of a car that the WSOR now owns. They bought it from amtrak who bought it from Santa fe. I want to get a model of the car but to me $40.00 is alitle to much considering my buget. I saw it recently and sent a pic of it to the Fallen flags railroad;



They call it the Notre Dame sleeper car. They refinished the inside and now use the car for inspection trains on the railroad.
_____________________________________________________________________

I've had a busy weekend. I got to go to a Brewers Baseball game yesterday, unfortunately they lost.
_____________________________________________________________________

And for those of you that know that kids song "the cat came back" or what every the title is, I have composed a little melody to that tune;

The water came back, I thought it was a gonner
but the water came back, it knew it shouldn't 'autter
but the water came back, it just couldn't stay away.

The water quit about Thursday, and all seemed good. But while my Dad and I were gone it rained very hard. When we came back there still wasn't any water but when I got up this morning.................

So i'm pleased to anounce the ARK (see previous posts) is back in buisiness again, as the docks are beginning to function again.[:D]
_____________________________________________________________________

And now for the big news (drum roll please) Mark me down for the 500 club! With this post a now have 3 green stars. Although now i'm here they don't really seem as special as they did when I was on my way here....But........Onward to 2000!!!

A happy (and hungry, it's getting close to lunch) Noah.

[philnrunt]

Jim- that wilted lettuce stuff sounds horrible, but I learned a few years back that if southerners eat it, it's good. Period. You folks take your food seriously, and it shows to these northern tastebuds.
Lupo- Told my friends that someone in Holland knew they were laying a floating floor and they were quite impressed by that. Oh, and happy 2e Pinker..uh..ooferstuger..oktoberfest!
For all who watched the 500 (and a good race it was), at the end, as 400,000 people were making their way out of the IMS, a tornado was sighted and the sirens were activated. I am so glad I do not work for the Speedway PD! That had to be a nightmare. We had over 30 twisters hit Indiana yesterday, had some deaths and lots of damage, I left the construction project at 21:36 under a tornado warning, kept a sharp eye out during lightning flashes, but saw nothing.The weather channel says we've had over 450 hit this May across the US. Thats probably enough.
Happy Memorial Day, remember those you've lost and remember and thank the troops! Hopefully they can all come back soon and join us remembering next year.

[CP5415]

I've started a yahoo group for my video clip.
It was the easiest & fastest way to do it.

http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/CPR2816/

Gordon

[lupo]

Morning CP5415 !
I would like to see that clip, do you have a link where I can load that?

---

hey guys had the same thoughts about Snake as well lately, lets wish and hope for the best!

---

Elliot, BigBoy_4005 you are right, just let the Bill Carl's star topic die-out.
we have been trough all this enough.
btw: I read a sort of apology and explanation from Bill Brasky yesterday on the other forum, what did you make of that ?

[CP5415]

Morning All!

I have a 37 second clip of 2816 crossing a level grade if anyone is interested.

It's almost 2MB so it may take a while to download.

Gordon