Views from the Locomotive

I'm on vacation but there still be some railroading going on

2011-12-27T08:25:00.003-07:00

We are in Memphis for the Holidays.

This little guy is too cute for words... bought this for my Harry Potter addicted daughter but guess who likes it? We are not allowed to turn it off while he is awake.

ML home LM up, Dodging Winter - 135 to go

2011-12-17T07:37:00.008-07:00

Caught the ML ribbon rail home and turned right around to catch the LM back out on our rest... at least that is what the current lineup shows... never mind we are not rested yet so it won't really happen... this is bogus information.. I sure get tired of that.
Train Call Time Assign Rested Available
MLAUMIS118 09:30-17 R LA26 LA26 07:55-17 09:55-17
Helper Arrive Depart 11:30-17 E

I love my job, I love my job, I love my job. Last trip before vacation for 6 weeks. I'm dodging winter.

EDIT UPDATE 0930: we ended up getting a Grain Train at 1130... rather have the LM!
GTHPKAL915 11:30-17 R LA26 LA26 Rested 09:55-17 EBLGS A 09:30-17
Helper Arrive Depart 13:00-17 E

2045 Update 2 from Helena... tied up at 2045... that's 8'45" on duty on a "heavy"... very rare, very rare

Didn't work much last half - put in a bunch of vacation days -

START DATE/TIME END DATE/TIME DESCRIPTION CREW

2011/12/04 2130 2011/12/05 1015 LA24 LA24
Job: LA24 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: HKCKPAS902
2011/12/05 2320 2011/12/06 0745 LA24 LA24
Job: LA24 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: ECECSCM139
2011/12/09 2230 2011/12/10 0845 LA26 LA26
Job: LA26 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: GSSDTAC909
2011/12/11 0230 2011/12/11 1030 LA26 LA26
Job: LA26 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: ECECCAM001
2011/12/14 2145 2011/12/15 0945 LA26 LA26
Job: LA26 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: GHGMINB913

You would think they would learn - 136 days left

2011-12-16T19:42:00.007-07:00

I hate to complain... it's so common.

Dispatchers have got to where they are hard pressed for some reason to give us information.

We caught the U-MISLAU... it was an empty ribbon rail train.

Years ago they tacked one of these trains on the rear of my 196 train. I warned the Helena trainmaster it wasn't a good idea. The equipment is old and the cars are light. It's a recipe for sliding wheels. My complaint was ignored. We went through Lombard and the crew there told us we had wheels sliding. It was so cold that it was impossible to get a good release. I had stopped the train, made a full service and continued but because the ribbon rail train was so far back there we could not see it. 5-7" flat spots on 9 cars were the result. We set 7 of them out at Stanley and 2 more at Clarkston.

I caught this one today at 0035. Dark but only 35 cars... We had the MRL 256... the bell quit, the radio didn't have a screen, it had flat spots and we had to inspect the power. We also had the MRL 290... both with red ball paint. I intended to get pics after I was off duty but it didn't happen. Photo above is my file photo in the old paint. Is this the last blue power I will ever run?... kinda fun, I do like the old stuff.

I thought maybe they had learned a lesson with these trains. Nope... doomed to make the same mistake they wanted to have us pickup the east ML traffic at Livingston. Too bad they didn't ask us until we were nearly to Big Timber. We did pick up the Mean Green Machines (The shuttle power) It would have worked as it has been unseasonably warm so far this year.

163 left - Deadhead...NOT!

2011-11-19T09:40:00.008-07:00

Pretty good snowstorm overnight.

RR: Looked at the lineup and stood for a deadhead at 10am but it was already past 8. Called the crew caller and let him know I was willing to deadhead BY TRAIN ONLY. The roads are way too slick to deadhead by crew van. Now I'm on the lineup for 1600 Coal load. They do listen? Who knew.

Tried to fire up the new snow blower... it would not start. Diagnosed it as old gas. Draining it now while I post this. Piss poor design... impossible to get to the air inlet... there is no air cleaner! There was one bolt behind a welded bracket. The engine would have to be removed to get to it. Bent the bracket - hey it isn't an airplane so what.

Update: As I left to go to work I noticed the snowplow had buried the sidewalk again.... grrrr

RR update: under 10 hours on a Coal load in 3F weather... pretty much unheard of and surprising cause the power looked like junk. Heat did not keep up... we were wearing 2 coats and 2 sweatshirts and the winter gloves that my coneheaded boss gave me. Also the fridge didn't work... had to ask for ice and it was 3F outside.

182 - New car smell

2011-10-31T23:07:00.006-06:00

0610 Caught the Pasco-Kansas City... very long at 8147 feet. 3 big units and uner 6000 tons. Solo Bozeman pass. I jumped onto a temp so that I could watch the World Series. First time I saw every game.

Had the Roadmaster with us and then was banner tested by the Roadforeman. Last test ever for me he says!.

We set about 50 (of the 122) cars out at *****. Made for a long day but at least it was a long DAY not night.

Drove around the Convoy new car depot in Laurel to see if my new car was in. I must have missed it because when I drove by the dealer it had just unloaded off the truck. I remembered I bought my first Honda (used) on Halloween. It was a 1984 Civic S. Not an Si... the Si didn't come out 'til '86. Last car I'll ever buy... right Kelly!?

191 - Reflections and Baseball

2011-10-22T11:31:00.015-06:00

191 days 'til retirement.

A few posts ago I promised more about the RR and less about me. Forget that for a bit.

After a very busy period at the RR I qualified for Federal Rest. It was good fortune for it to occur during the World Series. I'm not a rabid fan but I do still enjoy baseball. I was too small to be effective but I did have good fundamentals and was quick enough to steal bases. I hate what has happened to the proffesional game with the money and steroids.

There was a time when the game had more honor. Mickey Mantle would have played for free. He often said so. Each year during the playoffs and the Series I get reflective at what a perfect time that I was a kid. Baseball was good, but the world was not always.

Mickeys career was over in 1969, the year I was a Senior. Martin Luther King was shot on my birthday in 1968. We were embittered as a country by the Viet Nam war. We did learn that peaceful demonstration could change the world.

I was nine years old when Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris had their run at Babe Ruth's homerun record in 1961.

Bob Turley was a pitcher for the Yankees and won the Cy Young in 1958. He was a great friend of Yogi Berra. We have no Idea how he is related to us, but it was alot of fun that he was on the same team anyway. Greed ruined my affinity for the Yankees.

My Stepmother was big on nicknames and called my Mickey one time in 1961. I liked it so much I quit answering to anything else. My family still calls me Mick or Mickey on occasion. Even a couple of co-workers do too. They know I am a fan. I still prefer Michael or Mick to Mike.

Side note: As I wrote this post. I was watching a movie "Something God Made" about Vivien Thomas... I thought to include this link as it made another impact on me. I remember White Only Signs even though I was unaware of the treatment of folks in the south. The photo at the top was taken in New Orleans about 1963.

193 - Federal rest

2011-10-20T09:10:00.006-06:00

It is no easy feat to achive federal rest but I've just done it. So a few days off. Here is some of the stupid parts of the Federal Rest regulations. Excuse the RR jargon. Just a few points:

1. Our clock can be reset at the AWAY from home terminal.
2. Longer trip duration makes it harder to work 2 days in a row because there are only so many hours in a day. Example a couple of months ago I worked 16 hours and could not possibly get rested in time to work the next day, so it was a "day off" This actually happens without the 16 hour tour... that is just an extreme example.
3. Justice Scalia.. who coined the term Limbo Time... I dare him to follow me for 3 months... it would kill the old geezer. Finally they have started counting the Limbo time like it was intended.

On a lighter note...

Photo above from a railfan from Ohio that I met as we were changing crews at Reedpoint

196 - Now and then

2011-10-17T17:59:00.009-06:00

CEBMSPB114 22:45-17 R LA21 - that's 5 days in a row, tomorrow will be 6
they will freak, We will have required federal rest upon returning to Laurel

Railroaders have a tradition of bitching. Now and then I fall into the trap.

I have edited / deleted this paragraph!

I don't do blame or grudges and I'm hard to hurt with 196 days left, 6 weeks of vacation looming and a new car on order.

We had such a bad meet at Lombard, (and no, that wasn't the issue I had)
I had time to take some legal photos.. I stole the idea from an actual photographer / author Martin Burwash

201 - last RR rules exam... or is it?

2011-10-12T11:56:00.002-06:00

Today I'll ride the ST over to Laurel for the last RR rules exam ever. Maybe I'll be the giver instead of the givee huh John?

204 Stack train

2011-10-09T03:24:00.001-06:00

Stack Train... remains to be see if this thing has any priority.

Update: It didn't... 9 hour trip on a 6 hour train... 4 sidings.

213 - unit train

2011-10-01T15:41:00.001-06:00

I've got a picture somewhere of the blade train

It'll be another all nighter but a 55 mph train helps if traffic is light

214 - never fails again

2011-09-29T02:02:00.010-06:00

Got a call from Underiner Honda... they found me a 2011 Si... that'll work
Waiting for a new car makes it easier somehow

RR content - never fails again... take some time off.. deadhead and catch the ML... little sleep, 13 hour trip all night, non promoted asst., they are killing me. I love my job, I love my job, I love my job.
Deadheaded up to Helena yesterday arriving 1140.
ML for 0245, should be the end of the half

START DATE/TIME END DATE/TIME DESCRIPTION CREW
2011/09/18 1000 2011/09/18 1345 DEADHEAD LAUREL POOL LA12
Job: DHLA 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: DHLAV
2011/09/19 0115 2011/09/19 0935 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: MSPOLAU118
2011/09/20 2215 2011/09/21 0810 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: GBYLRGT919
2011/09/21 2245 2011/09/22 0735 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: XKALMNS921
2011/09/23 1500 2011/09/24 0005 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: MLAUMIS124
2011/09/24 1745 2011/09/25 0100 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: ERBESXM156
2011/09/28 0800 2011/09/28 1140 DEADHEAD LAUREL POOL LA21
Job: DHLA 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: DHLAV
2011/09/29 0245 2011/09/29 1530 LA21
Job: LA21 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: MMISLAU128

220 - faster, faster, faster.

2011-09-23T11:27:00.003-06:00

220 - quick turn around but more daylight... it's a good trade.

They cut the board/turns so we will work faster, faster, faster.

And I have a different asst. The King is back.

more to follow... right now chores, I'll actually get something done a home
(I don't usually do these posts at home)

START DATE/TIME END DATE/TIME DESCRIPTION CREW
2011/09/16 0001 2011/09/16 0001 LAYOFF for CoSTOC
2011/09/16 2400 2011/09/16 2400 TRAVEL BACK
2011/09/17 0001 2011/09/17 0001 MARK UP
2011/09/17 2400 2011/09/17 2400 TRAVEL BACK
2011/09/18 1000 2011/09/18 1345 DEADHEAD LAUREL POOL LA12
Job: DHLA 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: DHLAV
2011/09/19 0115 2011/09/19 0935 = 8'20"
Job: LA12 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: MSPOLAU118
2011/09/20 2215 2011/09/21 0810 = 9'55"
Job: LA12 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: GBYLRGT919
2011/09/21 2245 2011/09/22 0735 = 8'50"
Job: LA12 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: XKALMNS921

221- Waiting on an empty

2011-09-21T20:22:00.003-06:00

And yet another all nighter... Sitting in Helena waiting for a train home.... I know... I go to bed... they will call me for sure... the train last showed Clinton... that's barely out of Missoula.

Been a good summer, I made all but one motorcycle trip that was planned.

Kinda of a short half... I was gone the 2nd week of the month too!
Thanks, Conehead.

Job: From To Train:
2011/09/18 1000 2011/09/18 1345 DEADHEAD LAUREL POOL LA12
Job: DHLA 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: DHLAV
2011/09/19 0115 2011/09/19 0935 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: MSPOLAU118
2011/09/20 2215 2011/09/21 0810 LA12 LA12
Job: LA12 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: GBYLRGT919

222 - Hired out 2/22/88 on MRL / Do Deer Whistles really work?

2011-09-21T09:38:00.001-06:00

222 days to retirement. I hired on MRL on 2/22/88... never dreamed I'd still be here. Best RR in the USA to work for.

I changed the date of this old post to revisit this as we hit about 8 deer all at once last night. At the last minute they ran in front of the train. Got all ground up and separated the air hose between the first two units causing us to go into emergency brake application. You would think that all the noise we make at 29 mph wide open with two big 4400 hp GE's on Winston hill would be a deterrent but obviously not

Do Deer Whistles really work?

It's an issue that keeps coming up on both of the motorcycle touring forums I attend. These guys are my very best friends. I am fond of all of them (some more than others) Some are morons (not nec the same some)

Some think deer whistles work, or a least hope deer whistles work. Or deer avoidance system. Can I say 4 words?
Anything for a buck. Get it? Sorry.

Can I say just a few words? Nope. Don't have the ability to remain silent.

OK... here goes, I have hit about 800 deer... I hit on the average about 20- 25 deer every year.

I am a locomotive engineer, that's right I run the train in Montana

The locomotive is equipped with a 165db whistle... we call it a whistle 'cause horn does not begin to describe how loud it is. Get in front close and it will damage your hearing forever in one 8 sec blast.

The locomotive also has a very loud bell AND 4 70V headlamps that put out 300,000 candle power EACH... that's right, 1.2 million candlepower. The heat from these actually hurts as we walk into the front door.

Now, add to all this the 90+db from the engine itself plus the high pitched squeal from the steel wheels on the steel track.

Deer respond in any number of ways.
1. They completely freak and jump 30+ feet, zig, zag... fling themselves into a river etc.
2. They do absoulutly nothing
3. They don't even break stride, just continue slowly step by step into the path of the locomotive which at 60 mph puts out a bow wave that will nearly tear your unbuttoned light jacket off
4. Look up, hesitate, turn, turn again, stop, either step in front of the train enough so just the head gets hit and is thrown 300 feet down the track in front of us. (OK, just one time)

Now the abuse that will get me the boot from Mellow possibly... bear in mind I am trying to save a life here and emphasize how STUPID it is to rely on deer whistles. Nothing works, Deer have very primitive brains and are even stupider than people who believe in deer whistles.

They do however work against elephants, giraffes, zebras etc. I have never hit one of those.

I have had close calls with Eagles, Hawk, numerous birds.

They do not work against elk, dogs, oppossom, porkupine, black/brown bear, people (standing or sitting), snakes, turtles, owls, ducks, white pelicans, rabbits, but most of all they do not work against cows, sheep and (drum roll).....Deer. I have hit all of those so many time I lost count. Many times multiples at one time.

Get real people, everyone here is smarter than this, just cause we would like 'em to work does not make it so. Sorry Jack.

229 - Now back to work

2011-09-14T00:18:00.004-06:00

I'm bumped... I'll have to mark up tomorrow. I noticed I am granted time off for 2 days then denied the days I asked to have of to return from Colorado. I guess I was expected to use the transporter again. (See the BearSTOC blog here...) I had to return earlier than planned because of it.

I had a great summer. Now back to work. I do get to run the train.

Here is a map of the from the SPOT device of the STOC events I rode. See the BearSTOC blog here

Click the map to enlarge

Short half:
START DATE/TIME END DATE/TIME DESCRIPTION CREW
2011/09/03 1630 2011/09/04 0325 LA13 LA13
Job: LA13 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: CEBMSPB087
2011/09/04 1520 2011/09/04 1900 DEADHEAD LAUREL POOL LA13
Job: DHLA 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: DHLAV1
2011/09/06 1443 2011/09/06 1443 LAYOFF
2011/09/14 0001 2011/09/14 0001 MARK UP
Job: From To Train:
2011/09/14 1903 2011/09/14 1912 NOTIFY PLACE LA13
Job: From To Train:
2011/09/14 1912 2011/09/15 1040 PLACE..BUMPED
Job: From To Train:

242 left - work, work, work... lucky 13

2011-09-01T10:13:00.002-06:00

The usual here:

I was bumped off Turn 06... the Engineer on it now will carpool with my student (his student now) to Laurel from Livingston

I went to Lucky Turn 13, just after it left town... already it's lucky!

I'll finish putting brakes on the truck today... (I traded my car and the new one ain't arrove yet)
then
Tear down the front of the ST... Tire, brakes, fork oil, clutch fluid

Hope the RR OK's the time off for CoSTOC
I'll have to work a least a couple more trips between now and departure.
I do have 3 days off starting today to get these chores done... so, far, so good.

It's actually been a good summer despite the RR floods

Goto:
http://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=252e4d31fa5432418
Click the 6 month popup instead of 3 weeks, then zoom out... we got around pretty good!

244 days to go - Holy Cow

2011-08-30T12:55:00.007-06:00

Holy Cow at Shellies... Hey, I didn't eat it all AND I went for a 4 mile bike ride after soooo... about 9000 calories divided by 2 minus 600.... AND I watched 'em play tennis at the park, that's good for something .... now I'll sit on my butt and run the train for 12 hours... Dr. Cabel would be thrilled... 244 days to go

Standing for a Stack train... there was a derailment near Havre... this might be a reroute

UPDATE: Called for the stack train but I think it should go first... there is an empty called right ahead of us... we should get it, but what do I know?

245 days left - I really like...

2011-08-29T10:53:00.002-06:00

I really like a noon call. Choo Choo.

On another front, I have managed to disable my pickup trying to fix the brakes... things used to be held together with bolts. Chevy used a clip I could not get off. Bent up the backing plate. Now I get to remove the axle and the backing plate to fix it.

And I get to ride the motorcycle to work as I have no car anymore... see post below

246 - a semi daylight trip

2011-08-28T18:29:00.008-06:00

HAVRE - A 93-car freight train en route from Spokane to Minneapolis has derailed on Montana's heaviest used rail line, injuring two crew members and leaving several cars and locomotives piled on their sides along the tracks.

Here we go again... we will be expected to run their detour trains.

Not much to report on last trip other than 2 little gripes... the dispatcher stopped us at Muir on a underpowered coal load on the way to Helena last trip. I had my student start the train... he had never done that before... he did nothing wrong but the power tripped the local control and the resulting slack was huge. I even cracked my elbow.

I have been working alot of nights... the return trip from Helena was 1500-0001... dark but not all night like they have been lately.

2011/08/18 0001 2011/08/18 0730 LA06 = 7'29"
2011/08/18 2200 2011/08/19 0650 LA06 = 8'50"
2011/08/21 0700 2011/08/21 1050 DEAD
2011/08/21 2220 2011/08/22 0550 LA06 = 7'20"
2011/08/24 0200 2011/08/24 1400 LA06 = 12'00"
2011/08/25 0130 2011/08/25 1730 LA06 = 16'00"
2011/08/26 1630 2011/08/27 0330 LA06 = 11'00"
2011/08/27 1500 2011/08/28 0001 LA06 = 9'01"

249 - flashback to 16 hour HOS law

2011-08-26T00:34:00.009-06:00

Took this picture after covered service.
After seeing it I reactivated my old phone... it has a much better camera.

I'm just wore out... 16 hours on duty yesterday. What is this? The 30's? The intent of the 12 hour law is to have us in the terminal in 12... not off the train 3 hours by car from home. Treat me like that I'll eat on overtime... everytime. I'l go to work this evening again about suppertime. Sure glad I love running the train.

The front of the engine in the picture above is past the signal but the front wheel is behind the bond. The rear of the train is 20 feet from the signal at the rear. ML 139 cars, 10,800 tons, 7,300 horepower, 7555 feet... barely fit at Logan with 20 feet to spare after picking up 62 cars on the rear of the train while westbound traffic was waiting... pretty stupid. 0.7 hpt, We are saving fuel now!

After we left here I did have a meal on overtime... stopped at Franks in Manhattan... looks nice outside... what a dive.... best Philly Cheesesteak ever... not going back there... like I said, it's a dive. The clients were right out of deliverance. We should have stayed in Logan and eaten at the Land 'o' Magic, Martin

251 - and so it goes / last Car?

2011-08-23T16:16:00.012-06:00

The lineup was off by 27 hours... now it says 1300 tomorrow... yesterday it said 1000 today.
I try not to complain but this is not safe.

On the upside yesterday, we went to see Harry Potter last night and I did get to have lunch with my sweetie today.
The Red Door Rocks... it funny the demographic is white haired folks at lunch and 20 year olds in the evening.

On the upside today... I ordered a new Car today... might be my last one... it will not arrive for a few months as it is special order only. I traded my car in already so I'm driving the old S10 pickup... no A/C... I'm so spoiled but it is going to be in the 90's all week

it's a 2012 Honda Si Sedan... I thought they only made it in a coupe... a rare combo of fast and great mileage (if I keep my foot out of it)

The plain Jane DX-VP I traded... a basic version of the hot number I ordered... they want 19 grand for it... just about what it was new.

253 but really 252

2011-08-21T21:41:00.002-06:00

Once again I am working twice today.

Deadhead at 0700 - 1050

11:50 off in Helena... I did play some tennis

Now a Grain mty for 2250

it's going fast... the countdown I mean

256 - nothing new

2011-08-17T22:47:00.000-06:00

Seems like a rule... everytime I have an extended time off I catch an all night heavy

0001-noon (probably) Coal train

259 - less about me, more about trains

2011-08-15T10:17:00.003-06:00

I suddenly realized that this blog needs to be less about me and more about trains for the railfans. Still, I have gotten some good comments about the life of an Engineer even when it leans to grumbling. Hey, I'm not as bad as most as I really do like running trains.

It's difficult because all I want to do is go home when I am off duty. And the govmint takes a dim view of photos while on duty. I am planning a GoPro unique view video soon. The camera will be on it's own so it should be legal as I will not be in contact with it during the filming.

I changed turns to LA-06-01 today... remains to be seen if I go right out

UPDATE: Didn't the turn went out without me... so a few days off... damn, damn, damn

264 - less than 100 days less than a year to go

2011-08-10T00:36:00.009-06:00

Update: Boss Heffe is the best. I'll NOT be working this trip even though the MRL golf tourney is FRI ... instead we are leaving the country for our 39th. Recapping the WeSTOC venue at the Pestige in Nelson, BC. Track us on SPOT

Photo: by MDT - Near New Denver

and this is why I am counting down to retirement... HAPPY BIRTHDAY CADENCE!

Here she is in a Christmas video from one of my first posts.

265 - Did I really have a day off?

2011-08-09T00:16:00.004-06:00

Recent work history
START DATE/TIME END DATE/TIME DESCRIPTION
2011/08/02 0330 2011/08/02 1405 LA14
Job: LA14 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: CSCMCEC078
2011/08/03 0200 2011/08/03 1130 LA14
Job: LA14 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: XKALRSC931
2011/08/05 0300 2011/08/05 1425 LA14
Job: LA14 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: CSXMRBE122
2011/08/06 0330 2011/08/06 1500 LA14
Job: LA14 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: MMISLAU105
2011/08/07 1630 2011/08/08 0330 LA14
Job: LA14 01 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: CRWMCEC038
2011/08/08 1815 2011/08/09 0400 LA14
Job: LA14 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: ERBESXM120

Now we get to my pet peeve. The Federal law regarding the hours Locomotive Engineers work are just stupid. I work all night and yet they count days. I got off work at 0400 this morning and yet I did not work today according to the Feds. As I post this it is actually 1215am WED. I changed the date but left the time the same.

Point is I have worked part of the last 5 days but the count got reset because I didn't actually START work today. I would get a couple days off if they counted the day. Now I cannot sleep because I napped off and on all day. I'll feel like shit when I go to work tomorrow... I know this because, been there, done that. About the time I get called will be about the time I want to go back to sleep! Gotta love it. (And I do love running the train)

Rant off!

268 - The Bluse Streak

2011-08-06T03:02:00.001-06:00

cf 0330

269 -

2011-08-04T22:04:00.000-06:00

Expecting a 0245am Coal Train with Blaine THEN but had Little Dougie instead

0300-1420

271 - Change the title

2011-08-03T21:57:00.005-06:00

I changed the title of this post.

It was going to be "Trips don't get better than this"
now
"Great trip to Bozeman"

Even though I didn't sleep much yesterDAY and got a one hour call (they usually don't remember) the 0200 am to 1130 am trip on a 112 car grain empty was looking real promising until Bozeman. Stopped at West End for one coal train... managed to get through Livingston on the mainline and then it started. Track work, form "B"''s and slow orders and CTC outage from Columbus to Rapids. Restricted speed that entire stretch. What was shaping up to be a 7 hour trip turned into 9 1/2 hours.

I recorded the trip with my Garmin and I'll post that HERE

272 - Can't count and 33 Handbrakes

2011-08-02T15:38:00.003-06:00

I'd just about catch a Coal Train as anything else anymore. 3+1 power (17,200 hp) and helpers to the rear account 17,515 tons is less than the 17,600 tons that require them to be cut in.

0330 am to 1405 pm

Pretty much straight shot to Louisville but parked the train there. It took 33 handbrakes... wheww

Stand for 0130 empty tomorrow am... night night... or is it day day?

274 - Countdown continues

2011-07-31T11:28:00.008-06:00

I did manage a minimum Bicycle ride in Helena before going to work. I could see the backside of this Church (file photo) for more of another bicycle tour in Helena go here

In the Hotel van a Pilot asked us how long we have been running trains? Adam said 7 years I said 41 years that was fun.

Robert Banks Empty coal today. Parked it at Elton. I don't know why. Cut off two of the lead units leaving one on the train for air. Had to be done to cut the crossing at the east end. It wasn't that good of trip (8'30") considering we rode in the deadhead van for 90 miles.
We waited a bit before leaving Helena because 33 cars had rolled out of the yard onto the long lead right through the new CTC control point so I imagine there was some 'splaning to do by someone. We also met 2 at Clarkston where the meet are never great. I noticed the road to Clarkston was paved while I was gone. Deadheaded from Elton to Laurel, man it was a dark night.

START DATE/TIME END DATE/TIME DESCRIPTION
2011/07/31 1645 2011/08/01 0115 = 8'30"
Job: LA14 01 From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: ERBESXM114

Countdown continues

2011-07-30T10:58:00.001-06:00

375 left

Actually because my home page on computer startup brings up a retirement countdown so it is easy to keep trak of. I have 1 more rules exam I'd love to dodge... doubt full if I can stretch it 'til May as I'm on the schedule Sept 30.

We had the grain train toady BNSF7681... very new ES GE. Only 104 cars. We had a bad order at Laurel but got out of town in pretty good shape. Hash kicked it out for us. Straight short to Livingston only to wait for helpers for 4 hours and 10 min. Howe shoved us after cutting in. Raining a bit but it was 92F. The air conditioning was so fantastic I had to turn it off and on as it would get too cool. Adam was my Asst.

277 left

2011-07-28T11:04:00.002-06:00

Another underpowered grain train yesterday.

Older unit on point and a Mac included in the mix. Slow slug up the valley. Cut in helpers... we were 112 cars this time. The rear DP unit only loaded 880 amps when it should load 1450. I had my doubts about making Winston as we went up Bozeman pass at 10 mph. The detector at Toston hit us and sealed our fate. I walked back to check out dragging equipment. There was none. We were running out of time so shoved back about 4 miles to Toston and parked the train there. On duty at 1900 of duty at 0815. 1'15" limbo time.

Layed over in Helena about 22 hours then long deadheaded home via van at 0630-1020.

Even an eastbound nearly dies

2011-07-25T11:15:00.000-06:00

2011/07/25 1545
2011/07/26 0305

From HELEMT To LAURMT Train: MPASLAU124

Nice afternoon call but no luck... 8000 foot train, power work at Livingston

Deadhead by Cessna 414

2011-07-03T13:16:00.002-06:00

Last Deadhead by Air after the flooding

One more trip (before WeSTOC)

2011-06-17T09:45:00.006-06:00

Photo by a railfan... look careful, might see someone you know

I'll be posting my annual motorcycle trip stories here starting the 20th

I was granted 20th thru 24th after requesting a month leave. I'd say I've stepped up!

Thanks to the Supt. I get to go on my trip to Canada, eh?

I'll be posted the travelouge over on my other site. Michaels Bicycle

Sometimes we are on opposite sides but say the same thing

2011-06-03T11:29:00.011-06:00

For years the RR has acted like our wages is the undoing of profit for the RR. I thought that was nonsense (and still do) when compared to the cost of fuel. The RR has proved my point.

Yesterday I had a chat with the Roadforeman about our long trip hours and weather or not we are saving money by combining trains and working overtime and using two crews and the cost of crew van transportation. It was particularly annoying to me as a crew deadhead right behind us. He asked me to talk with the Asst. Superintendent and the Superintendent about it too. I know he has gone to bat for us as has the other Laurel Roadforeman.

Yesterday (and the day before... it was an all night trip) we had a 126 car train out of Helena. It was combined Spokane-Laurel / MRL Missoula Laurel. We did a power swap with the MRL LM at Livingston that took about an hour. Then I prepared 46 more cars with the intent of picking them up. We set out 26 cars so the train total would be about 150 cars and 9100 ft. This train will not fit anywhere and cannot be built within the guidelines of blocking crossings at Livingston as it is 8000 feet between the crossings there. The Livingston clerk was on vacation so the list was a mess and it all took 3 1/2 hours. We ended up air testing the pick up then securing that cut for a later pickup by the next crew as we were running out of time. We put the power back on the train that we had left on the mainline and then pulled it down to ready it for the double up. 10 more handbrakes there.

My question was is it all cost effective? I suspected it is all about fuel. We used the BNSF power only from Helena to Bozeman pass. Is the fuel savings to MRL vs. the cost of new crew and crew van service off set by the fuel savings? At $3.50 / gal, I bet it is.

I'm tired, and tired of the long long days with no layoffs allowed. I agree with the RR when considering the fuel issue even though I am sure they will pitch a fit about wage negotiation like our wages are killing them. I'll not be voting on the new contract as it won't affect me. I will go into effect APR 1 and I'll be retiring MAY 1.

2011-06-01T06:28:00.004-06:00

And end of an era... headed for the scapper... not many of these old girls left anymore... I still like running them for a lot of reasons. The 111 has a 5 note whistle, I should have grabbed it

Power swap

2011-05-31T12:09:00.000-06:00

2011/05/31 1700 2011/06/01 0530 = 12'30" on duty
LA14 LA14
Job: LA14 04 From LAURMT To HELEMT Train: MLAUPAS129

Swapped power at two locations trying to get units that worked. We had a couple of old Santa Fe Warbonnets that were not up to the task of pulling this 11,500 ton train.. We died at Townsend.

Soorry

2011-05-21T11:51:00.002-06:00

I let my co-workers down...

sorry... it turns out we were asked to step up for the good of the country while I was dealing with the doctors... dang... sorry guys... I didn't know... really

And this happened while I was gone.... can't leave 'em alone for a minute

Salem

2011-03-11T08:57:00.003-07:00

Most by now have figured out that it is unlikely that I'll ever pedal across the US of A. The blog "Michaels Bicycle" has turned into Michaels Motorcycle and is mirrored on this blog "A View from the Locomotive"

Little Salem Marie Turley was born yesterday. As I get older, like many folks, that get older, I've beginning to worry (not a lot) but a bit, about what the world is coming to. There is a glimmer of worry what this little glow worm is getting herself into.

Then a pause. To travel on a motorcycle is just the best. We have all heard the cliche'... freedom, open road, one with one's self (what does that one even mean?)

For me, I restore my faith in people during my travels. I can relate story after story of the people I come across on the 2 lane backroads of America. Yes, America is still out there.

There were three America stories on this trip but my favorite to date is the time we rolled into O'Keene, Oklahoma after dark. Danny was counting on his version of Primrose Patty (my GPS) to secure motel accommodations for the night. Turned out the motel was closed and literally boarded up. The City Park sign read, "NO Camping". We went over to the only establishment that look open. A Convenience store. Bars never look open to me. The front door was not locked but it turned out the store was closed. Beth, a stunningly pretty girl was cleaning up and getting ready to close. There were a few patrons sitting a a table. We wanted just a sandwich so Beth drug out all here wares and made the three of us sandwiches. We asked about Camping about town and one of the fellows at the table said to wait that Keith Richard.... son would be there soon. Keith as it turned out was not actually a cop but worked for the city water department. He indicated that he might forget to lock the bathrooms over at the city park and that if someone slept on the lawn over by the airport it would be out of sight. Next morning back to the store we went. Everybody was there including the mayor. Nice breakfast with few stares. As we left and I paid the bill, I told Beth, "You must be the prettiest thing in town". To which she replied, "You ought to see my sister".

What does all this have to do with little Salem Marie Turley? Well, it's a pretty good place she has joined. Welcome Salem.

RR content? - just a reminder

2011-01-17T10:23:00.005-07:00

I have been on vacation this first part of 2011. I have not missed working in the bad weather. Railroading in this stuff is miserable. As this is my last full year of Railroading I will try to update the blog more. I cannot take on the fly photos from the train anymore unless I am deadheading on the train and not a crew member. (I happens now and then) but there are many opportunities for photos within the guidelines of Emergency Order #26

The Smugmug link to photos is here

I also reset the SPOT for 2011. It doesn't transmit well from inside the locomotive and inside my grip. I use it primarily for the motorcycle trips but I have had requests to turn it on in the locomotive. We railroaders have groupies that tend to be techie guys.

I have an idea for mounting the goPro in unique locations on the locomotive. Look for those later.
GO to my BearSTOC.blogspot.com site for examples of the GoPro camera... say Happy Christmas present.

Happy New Year - new location link

2011-01-15T12:56:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year everybody.

I am on vacation and just hanging out by the fire. It's been nice not having to Railroad in the bitter cold. Sometimes vacations are more work than working but this one was the exception.

I have created a new SPOTWALLA page for Where's MD (that's me)

I have PMS really bad... (that's parked motorcycle syndrome)

Do we really want to go there?

2011-01-05T02:53:00.003-07:00

I miss the old super. I was forced to work one of my vacation days last monday. Do we really want to go there? As short handed as the RR can get they have never made anyone that I knew of work their vacation unwillingly. I was told I had to work. Maybe my new boss knew I needed to pay for the new snowblower!

On the Soap Box, off the fuel?

2010-10-11T12:35:00.000-06:00

how about joining my family and driving a fuel efficent car? I started driving them in 1984.

OK, never mind that I ride a motorcycle (that gets 50 mph) to no where in particular for recreation and that I burn about 8000 gal. of fuel everytime I go to work.

Still, well... OK, nevermind.

Wait, I'm not done. Someone explain to me why they need a Hummer? Or a huge diesel pickup that doesn't have one single scratch in the bed.

My pickup gets 27mpg, the new car gets 38+mpg, the motorcycle gets 48+mpg

but.... The train gets 362 feet per gal, or so I was told way back when.
Per ton of freight up to 14 times more efficent than a semi-truck

As an Engineer, I can pay my own wages by caring enough to eliminate power braking. Burn dem brakes shoes I say, Burn.

RR content - kinda 10/10/10 10:10

2010-10-10T10:10:00.001-06:00

The RR will not allow me to work because I had a sycopatic episode... again

The story is over on my other blog at:
http://michaelsbicycle.blogspot.com/

It's a lot like listening to an old guy complain about his health... OK, it exactly like

RR content - huh?

2010-10-04T10:06:00.002-06:00

I'm in Helena standing for

Train Call Time Assign Stand Rested Available Last OS Time
CNAMRBE0DC 13:00-04 E LA14 Rested 11:15-04 huh?
Helper ? Arrive Depart 13:15-04 E
01 JACK 04 MIKE

I think its a Roundup coal empty but the C is usually a load, so... huh?

I'll go ride my bike, and wait for the call

RR content more Indian Summer

2010-10-03T10:19:00.000-06:00

I froze yesterday. We had more Indian Summer and we also had the best A/C I've ever felt on a locomotive. The BNSFxx90 froze me out. Just like a railroader to complain about something!

Stats
Grain Train
9.5 mph up Winston
1300 - 2345 = 10"45", it was a get on and go train. We got stopped 4 times including Elton. I hate to stop there with a underpowered train.

M/C ride - Indian summer

2010-10-03T01:37:00.005-06:00

I was just a little late and the video is a bit dark. It wasn't as dark as it looks... I'll redo it. I could not resist... we had some Indian Summer, I thought I should do Dead Indian Pass instead of repairing my roof!
Videos moved to BearSTOC.blogspot.com

New toy - GoPro

2010-09-29T19:08:00.007-06:00

This is the first video with the new GoPro video camera

Old Hardin Road starts at just south of Billings and runs over to Hardin, MT
This will be the first road to BearSTOC.

This is the first 15 minutes give or take.
Also available here

Part 2

Gotta try it on the mountain bike next!

WeSTOC / ToadSTOC 2010

2010-09-07T23:38:00.008-06:00

A travelogue of my motorcycle trip to Idaho, BC, AB and back to Montana will go here.

A link to the pictures is HERE

Garmin player telemetry
Part 1 - Billings to Moscow, ID
Part 2 - part 2 of Day 1 and all of Day 2 -
WeSTOC The Mother road and Rattlesnake shake backroad recon
Day 3 - WeSTOC - Rattlesnake shake run revisited, a great day with Goldie
Day 4 - WeSTOC - Rattlesnake shake with Steve and Tim
Day 5 - Headquarters / Orofino Mex / Rattlenake shake with Goldie
Day 6 - Toadrock to Calgary
Day 7 - Calgary, AB to Shelby, MT, it's winter in Canada
Day 8 - Shelby to Billings - better weather in the good 'ol USA
Much of the telemetry data was lost... just too much rain I guess.

RR content - It's a box of chocolates

2010-08-09T09:31:00.003-06:00

Called for the unit train at 1115. I never know what that's going to be. I'll have to let you know. I like a midday call. It means I'll sleep at night. Slept at night last night and will again tonight. I could get well for a bit.

SPOT LOCATOR LINK

RR content - We been getting killed

2010-08-03T20:50:00.002-06:00

I have been waiting for it to even out. It... is the luck that has eluded us lately. We died on the ML and 2 trips in a row. The ML (or LM) is our local traffic train that we all dodge like it's the queen of spades. RR lineup are so bad that I've always joked that the best way to dodge it is to get the crew office or lineup to say we stand for the ML. We seldom catch the train we stand for. They had us picking up 135 empty coke cars at Livingston. So stupid I asked the dispatcher twice if it that was really what they wanted us to do. Finally, I called the trainmaster. He agreed with me to pickup 41 merchandise cars and 40 empties. Still a stupid number of total cars at 165 but... we died and another crew finished the work. Turn14 has been run around 9 times in the last 3 round trips. My luck has gotta change.

RR content - In the past

2010-07-30T04:55:00.002-06:00

Notice the time of this post. As I have mentioned here before, there is a tendency to bitch at the RR. And here and other blogs I have noticed.

BUT... wasted a day yesterday. Layed around napping now and then know I was on the lineup to go to work at 2300 hrs. Awake now and then until called for the "V" train for 6am. Daylight trip on the stack train. Great call. Piss poor lineup... no one to tell so there it is. It's often said we get paid for our inconvenience... this is one of those times.

Watch SPOT

RR content - See SPOT run

2010-07-11T12:12:00.004-06:00

I have had a request to carry the SPOT locator while on the train. It doesn't work well in the Locomotive and inside my grip as well but it sends my location now and again.

HERE IS THE LINK

NatSTOC

2010-07-10T12:15:00.004-06:00

this is a placemarker for my motorcycle trip report a work in progress

Trip Stats
1009 miles
50.1 mpg

Day 1 - Billings, Greybull, Burgess Jct, Spearfish, SD

Day 2 - Spearfish Canyon north to south, Lead, Deadwood, Lunch at the Ruby in Keystone, Iron Mountain Road, Needles Hwy, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon south to north.

Day 3 - Spearfish Canyon again, Breakfast at Cheyenne Crossing, then home in 4 1/2 hours via 212 through the constuction zone at Lame Deer

Trip pics are here

turn down the volume for video 1, the river is too loud. The video is here

and

a Dinkie video 2 is here

Heat Wave

2010-07-06T19:20:00.000-06:00

It's been very cool in Montana but the heat wave in the east reminded me how things have changed. I seldom, anymore, get a locomotive that is not air conditioned. Still, I love running with the windows open on a summer night. Earplugs in, Headset on. Whistle ya, know!

Called for an actual mixed freight train as of this post

Whaaa?

2010-07-06T03:42:00.000-06:00

What does the staff at the Chinese place in Helena eat?

Obamacare?

2010-07-05T11:59:00.003-06:00

One of my medications went up $30 a month. The drug company taking advantage while they can before Obamacare kicks in? It's a med that has been around for 30 years... no reason for it to go up in price. It's gouging plain and simple. $574 / mo

The researchers agree that modafinil improves some aspects of working memory,

July 4th - new camera

2010-07-04T11:51:00.000-06:00

Bought Maggie a new Camera.... Of course I intend to borrow it for motorcycle trips

RR content - Da "Q" train

2010-07-02T10:44:00.002-06:00

I was gonna mow the lawn but the RR called and wants me to run the Q train. It remains to be seen if it is Boeings only like last week. 2 in 3 weeks time after not catching one in about 6 years.

ST content - CoSTOC - Dirt... arrggg

2010-06-28T15:01:00.000-06:00

This was the final push home. Through Yellowstone and over Beartooth Pass... 3 miles of dirt on the pass but WY has repaved most of the poor pavement on their side.

Also, retag the Montana Tag using the Muffler men as Tag and ALT

How about a classic picture of the Tetons? Not bad from a Phone.

PICS

Route

Summary
Overall
Time: 11:38:02
Distance: 505.30 mi
Elevation Gain: 23,590 ft

Timing
Time: 11:38:02
Moving Time: 09:54:14
Elapsed Time: 11:38:02
Avg Speed: 43.4 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 51.0 mph
Max Speed: 104.2 mph

Elevation
Elevation Gain: 23,590 ft
Elevation Loss: 26,422 ft
Min Elevation: 3,120 ft
Max Elevation: 10,812 ft
Heart Rate
Avg HR: 82 bpm
Max HR: 120 bpm

ST content - CoSTOC - Tag failure 11:11:11

2010-06-27T23:46:00.001-06:00

This was the best day of riding the entire trip. Greta Garmin tells me I was on the bike for 11:11:11

I was attempting to replace the CO tag in a remote location to tease Baker Boy. He fooled me, posted a new tag making this one invalid. On top of that he retrieved this tag anyway. Beat me twice. Brilliant.

Highlight of the day was for me the ride up Flaming Gorge in the evening. Last time I rode here was north to south and too late. This time the light was perfect except I could not take pictures into the sun and the canyon was to the west. Nothing can beat the human eye.

Quit early in Rock Springs, WY... I'll make it home tomorrow and maybe ride through the park and over the Beartooth for the first time this year.

ROUTE

PICS - Remember these are from my Palm as the Nikon quit after a bath in Blackhawk

ROUTE

Summary
Overall
Time: 11:11:11
Distance: 454.96 mi

Timing
Time: 11:11:11
Moving Time: 08:11:39
Elapsed Time: 11:24:23
Avg Speed: 40.7 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 55.5 mph
Max Speed: 102.3 mph

Elevation
Elevation Gain: 26,013 ft
Elevation Loss: 24,627 ft
Min Elevation: 4,597 ft
Max Elevation: 10,006 ft
Heart Rate
Avg HR: 87 bpm
Max HR: 109 bpm

ST content - CoSTOC 1 - Lightning at 10,925ft

2010-06-26T23:25:00.001-06:00

I did a solo ride today. Rode up Big Thompson Canyon, and over to Glen Haven to get the CO "tag" and then took my shortcut bypassing Estes Park. I rode down to Mount Evans but it was raining and there was lightning popping all around, I really wanted to see the 13,000+ altitude and get out of the heat.

The rain cooled me down after I went the alt route over Squaw pass and diverted over to Blackhawk - Central City... My trusty Nikon camera got wet and quit. I'm hoping it will dry out. I'm famous for my on the fly shots from the motorcycle. I had a great lunch with a couple and there was a live band. [insert video here later] The owner of the place was an old friend from Evergreen.

I had my closest call today. And by a Boulder CO sheriff for Pete's sake. He pulled out in front of me so close I had to get on the brakes... I was running under the speed limit. I could tell he was daring me to go around him but maturity took over. Yeah, I fight ti but sometimes... Anyway, I turned right at the next opportunity, did my "walk around" and continued on a bit later.

A very enjoyable evening at the campground after my brother joined us a the CoSTOC banquet. Prime Rim for me and Salmon for him. Jim's sailplane stories were better than my motorcycle stories so I enjoyed seeing hem very much.

ROUTE

SMUGMUG PICS

Summary
Overall
Time: 10:02:20
Distance: 251.45 mi
Elevation Gain: 24,515 ft

Timing
Time: 10:02:20
Moving Time: 06:02:37
Elapsed Time: 10:02:24
Avg Speed: 25.0 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 41.6 mph
Max Speed: 83.8 mph

Elevation
Elevation Gain: 24,515 ft
Elevation Loss: 24,549 ft
Min Elevation: 5,010 ft
Max Elevation: 10,975 ft

Heart Rate
Avg HR: 90 bpm
Max HR: 132 bpm

ST content - CoSTOC Day 3 - Hot Ride

2010-06-25T23:59:00.000-06:00

After the respit from the heat (I got a motel in Wheatland)

Blew on to Loveland via the Superslab... something I rarley do except where there isn't much to look at. And there isn't south of Wheatland.

Arriving in Lovland there was no one at the campground or the hotel yet. I rode up to Estes Park and over to my brothers in Boulder via 7. The disorganisers touted the beautiful vistas and the twisty roads. They didn't say anything about the heat and the traffic. I began to look for a palce to camp in a higher elevation than down in Loveland but didn't really come up with anything. This is a hard place to find a stealth camping spot.

I'm glad I settled for the Riverview in Loveland. But only because I had a great time with Lost Brit, Mile High and Smash from STOwners

I took one picture all day... not much to see, and the heat, I didn't want to stop!

picture just the one

route

Summary
Overall
Time: 07:29:25
Distance: 253.22 mi
Elevation Gain: 13,460 ft

Time: 07:29:25
Moving Time: 04:53:15
Elapsed Time: 08:08:51
Avg Speed: 33.8 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 51.8 mph
Max Speed: 97.1 mph

Elevation
Elevation Gain: 13,460 ft
Elevation Loss: 13,063 ft
Min Elevation: 4,721 ft
Max Elevation: 7,924 ft

Heart Rate
Avg HR: 85 bpm
Max HR: 109 bpm

ST content - CoSTOC Day 2 - No Right Turn

2010-06-24T13:39:00.002-06:00

Rick's ST has the 737 rudder issue... I have a hard time getting the bike to turn right.

Packed up this morning and headed south into Spearfish canyon. One of the best rides in the USA. I ran into my Camp mate at Cheyenne Crossing. After breakfast I started out, attempted to turn right toward Deadwood and the bike headed left back up the Spearfish canyon. I turned around at the other end after having a chat with a bicyclist that owned a car just like my old Red Civic hatchback.

Managed to get the bike headed south again I rode the canyon for the 3rd time. Everything was going fine when suddenly it was hard left rudder again at the Needles Highway. Now the dilemma, do I ride on and through the Custer State Park? Might as well, I've already paid.

Plan was to make it to Loveland and CoSTOC tonight but with all the left diversions I ended up in Wheatland after taking a time out in Edgemont, SD (102F)and Guernsey, WY, both are old away from home RR terminals for me. The RR Resort has the best restaurant in Guernsey. I had a nice shrimp platter.

Route
Pictures

Summary
Overall
Time: 12:24:45
Distance: 360.59 mi
Elevation Gain: 20,907 ft

Timing
Time: 12:24:45
Moving Time: 07:32:35
Elapsed Time: 12:24:46
Avg Speed: 29.0 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 47.8 mph
Max Speed: 100.2 mph

Elevation
Elevation Gain: 20,907 ft
Elevation Loss: 19,921 ft
Min Elevation: 3,492 ft
Max Elevation: 6,434 ft

Heart Rate
Avg HR: 92 bpm
Max HR: 124 bpm

ST content - CoSTOC 1 - Day 1 - Tag

2010-06-23T22:00:00.004-06:00

The RR amazes me. It has been difficult to get extra time off. Particularly on the weekend. Today I left to get the STOwners Montana state tag. We play a game that entails taking a picture of our motorcycle in front of a landmark then moving to another landmark in the same state. BakerBoy from Colorado had moved the Montana tag to the very edge of Montana in, well, Baker of all places. I got the tag while a very pissed off dog berated my presence. It might have been the spacesuit I was wearing but I gotta think he is just nuts. I hate dogs and don't care who knows (except my little granddaughter who LOVES animals)

Anyway, I managed to get the tag and the North Dakota state sign as I left ND. There is no welcole to ND sign on US12 eastbound. I got ND and SD as I left ND. Made it to the Spearfish City Campground. I recommend the campground and plan on being here again July 8 and 9.

Route player
Smugmug picture Gallery

Summary
Overall
Time: 09:57:32
Distance: 425.58 mi

Timing
Time: 09:57:32
Moving Time: 07:08:19
Elapsed Time: 21:46:39
Avg Speed: 42.7 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 59.6 mph
Max Speed: 98.6 mph

Elevation
Elevation Gain: 16,185 ft
Elevation Loss: 15,406 ft
Min Elevation: 2,181 ft
Max Elevation: 3,777 ft

Heart Rate
Avg HR: 80 bpm
Max HR: 115 bpm

That's more like it

2010-06-15T13:46:00.001-06:00

I get to run the train again today... Graintrain for 1430... it's amazing how much I can get done if the stupid RR gives me 2 1/2 days off. Mowed the lawn, worked on my truck, Fixed the hot tub so the Grandkids can use it as a swimming pool. Installed rain gutter. Vast improvement over recently.

Another day slipped away

2010-06-13T18:01:00.006-06:00

Not sure if this post belongs in my Michael's Bicycle blog as it might related to the health issues and Shift Workers Syndrome I fight. A beautiful day in Billings and somehow not able to get of the couch. Thankfully I'll be home a bit longer than usual this trip as we deadheaded home last night. I'll worry about tomorrow and try to get something done this evening.

Last trip the phone rang at 0130 for a 0330 PASKCK, we left Laurel at 0555
Helpers on the rear at Livingston and pretty much a straight shot to Helena after that. It took us about the usual 10 hours to get there. Tied up in Helena at 1305 only to back on duty to Deadhead at 1900... I got no sleep and was up up well over 20 hours... the 4 hour rule should be outlawed... not to complain... just part of the nature of this job.

688 days to go

Photo 6/6/10 view from the Locomotive

Holy cow

2010-06-01T09:24:00.002-06:00

I was going to post about the zanyness of a recent trip but didn't think anyone really read this crap... Holy cow

I have got renewed interest 'cause out of the blue there has been interest in the RR posts AND my travels... Holy cow, I didn't know there was interest in this still.

I will make this a quick marker post and pre date a post about a recent trip where we ended up with 147 cars and 9400+ feet of train... pretty zany. I must have walked 5 miles doing the groundwork that day.

Thanks for your email Chris Walker NZ!

I'm tapering off and backing up

2010-05-21T00:00:00.005-06:00

I think the language used in the media is against the rules to be used on the senate floor but has become popular there too. It is a disgrace. The founding fathers had spirited discussions but established decorum for a reason. It got out of hand. We have seen it surface a few times recently as the aisle has been more divided. We need more gentlemanly behavior from our leaders. Has it gone to fist like Japan yet? Won't be long I predict.

Personal attacks are wrong there just as they are wrong on this forum. Tell me if I'm full of shit... it'll be OK

It doesn't take much time listening to Rush or Glenn to figure out that they are first and foremost entertainers who are in it for the money, fame or whatever. The outlandish statements they make prohibit me from taking anything they say seriously. I therefore find it humorous. At least the leftist guys are on the comedy channel for the most part. Rachel has her own agenda and I find her funny too. I admittedly would rather laugh with them than at them but what I think of them doesn't matter. I also laugh at them that take them seriously.

And personally, and I know it is a contraction, but I respect the office if not the individual. A am disillusioned with most if not all politicians but refrain from using derogatory terms even though I could not stand Mr. Bush and am rapidly feeling the same about Mr. Obama.

It is impossible to find out or know what really goes on with our government. I was dismayed to learn that the Coast Guard prevented news agencies from taking pictures as the oil hits the beaches along the Gulf. Transparency in our new administration? Bullshit.

Lately, I have gone burying my head in the sand. If I don't I tend to get wrapped up in the disgust and it can actually affect my mood. I believe in equal opportunity and they are all pissing me off with regularity. I don't watch TV news much, it disgusts me. I just grab my ankles and hang on no matter what they cram down our throats or shove... wherever... you get the point.

2010-05-01T22:20:00.000-06:00

East Portaland down

2010-05-01T22:15:00.000-06:00

RR content - less than 2 years left

2010-05-01T14:10:00.000-06:00

I'll be eligible to retire in exactly 2 years today. After that I will no longer get to run the train.

Photo of Helper crew at Bozeman

RR video - Mayday

2010-05-01T04:05:00.001-06:00

RR content video 0314002319

2010-03-14T04:09:00.000-06:00

RR content - Back with Jack

2010-02-09T05:47:00.002-07:00

Back with Jack after a 2 year gap

CoSTOC / NatSTOC / WeSTOC /CanSTOC / BearSTOC Trip planning

2010-01-28T22:41:00.006-07:00

I'm already planning my motorcycle routes for next summer. Zoom the map out to see the entire route. Click the link below the map to see a larger Google version.

View Larger Map

go to the BearSTOC website

RR content - Big Deal... There oughta be a law

2010-01-23T04:30:00.001-07:00

at 0930 we deadheaded to Helena arriving at 1320. RR gave us 5 hours off (Big Deal) then put us on a PASKCK with 8'10" left to work. The train had good power but was a pig. 7600ft long and over the drawbar and the helpers had to cut in. We died at Reed Point at 0300. ES into Laurel at 0430. I got about a 30" nap in Helena and have now been awake for 20 hours... how is that safe?

2010-01-20T04:00:00.001-07:00

Palin

2009-12-09T13:43:00.001-07:00

Sarah Palin was in Billings yesterday...
glad I was in Helena far away from all the lemmings...
One could get swept over the cliff... 'nuff said...
can't say something nice then...

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T12:43:00.002-07:00

I was expecting to go to work today so yesterday I went the buffet resturaunt. A homeless guy wanted 4 dollars "for gasoline"

I offered to buy his dinner. He must have thanked me 9 or 10 times. He asked to sit with me... I understand the lonleyness so I agreed even though I was afraid his hygene might be upsetting. It wasn't. I never got his name and he only finished about half his plate before confronting me about needing the 4 bucks again.

I explained that I don't give money to homeless. Years ago there were alot more Hobos on Railroad Property. I learned not to give money, but I have bought many meals for them over the years... mostly during the holidays.

Anyway, shortly after asking for money again this guy disappeared while I was getting another plate. He may have been sick... he didn't smell of booze but I think that's 'cause that is what he wanted the 4 bucks for.

I'll keep doing this... sometimes I've been surprised at the outcome.

I feel fortunate...

My biggest current problem is a bill I failed to pay in a timely manner (partly on purpose) for two shoes insoles back from April when I tore my Achilles. Health insurance didn't cover them, and they were 80 dollars.

If I was homeless, I'm betting some wadded, folded newspaper would have worked. Of course I would not have been playing Tennis.

Perspective.

My new buddy

2009-11-23T19:55:00.002-07:00

I got too attached too quickly...

Jonah Michael Granberg
11/11/09

RR content - I'm baaaakkk...

2009-09-03T19:20:00.000-06:00

I'm back running trains. My 3rd train since APR 21.

I agreed to work off my turn as they were short of Engineers.
Died both ways, no good deed goes unpunished, eh?

14'10" on duty all nighter on the way home.
Caught the ML. 155 cars out of Livingston. 13400 tons... lovely.

I met myself last night (my turn caught the bare table empty)

Red Ball express... photo taken when no other duties required of course.

WeSTOC 09 - Logan Run to home

2009-08-30T22:34:00.003-06:00

Recovered from the heat this day (SUN) and it was the best day of riding for the entire 9 days (was it 9 days?)

Right off the bat I took a wrong turn but it was OK as the road nice with sweepers and vistas. I turned around after Gretta (Garmin) complained got back on track a bit although I did miss Bear Lake. The traffic wasn't heavy but I chose the less travelled road after the fiasco in Provo yesterday.

Met Mark and "Octo" across from the Friesen Horse farm near Montpelier. We cooled off in the Salt River... really nice guys. Mark camps "Out of Africa style" Tables, Shepard's tent, phonograph, BBQ... he brings it all in his trailer... what characters. They get together once a years and leave the wives behind. Now I don't feel so bad... I need the time alone too.

Favorite road today was 36 to Montpelier, UT and on to Freedom, UT on 34. I wish it was within striking distance for WeSTOC XV next year.

I rode Gallatin Canyon again... I had forgotten how nice the ride was from Wilson, WY to Belgrade, MT via Idaho.

Stats:
Max Heart Rate = 110 while working in the hot sun at Montpelier adjusting the seat so that I don't slide into the hot metal top shelter. It stayed in the 70's most of today.

Garmin Player click here

Smugmug photos starting today click here

Recap trip stats:
Total miles 3909 including the little side trips at Minden
2 tires at Minden...thanks Dave Bersins for the tip and Rod at the shop... terrific service.

On the way to Minden I saw 2 ST's both headed the other way... on the way home I kept catching ST riders. Carl at Austin, NV... Rene and the Kelly's at Ely, NY but that were all the ST's I saw on the road.

WeSTOC 09 - Logan Run

2009-08-29T21:57:00.005-06:00

had to quit yesterday at 4pm... got a room in Eureka when my heart rate spiked at 102. I sent Carl on alone.

Left before light this A.M.... Rick's bike temp said 7C... burrr, but got in a massive traffic tie up near Provo and it was up to 35C and was a constant 33C.... ended up backtracking and running Provo canyon.... dammit! nice ride up by Bridal Veil Falls. Better today max heart rate was 97 (that I saw), matching the bank thermometer... huh?

Phot = Turley Ave in Provo. Looks like someone bent up the sign trying to steal it?

Add the Econolodge in Logan Utah to the list of nice economy rooms... and the air conditioner in room 226 is fantastic.... I'm almost shivering... it feels soooo good that I went to the grocery store for food... the rooms have Microwave and reefer. And new bedding. Mark the manager is interested in buying my 1100.

Garmin player here

WeSTOC 09 - beat the heat

2009-08-29T05:24:00.002-06:00

I'm in Eureka, I didn't fare well in the heat. I caught up to Carl at Austin, NV... he watched me eat while he had a chocolate shake.

At Eureka I was a bit dizzy and heartrate was over 100 so I got a room. Went to the grocery store to get something to eat and ran into a cross country cyclist. A bit more than cross country he has cycled across the USA from Orlando to Virginia Beach to D.C. to Philly to NYC to Boston to Toronto to Detroit to Chicago to Sioux City to SD to Rapid City and on and on and now is in Eureka, NV

I left him $50 as I am about to sneak out of the hotel room I shared with him. Anybody want to chip in? He is so close to making it to San Fransisco... his travelogue is on facebook Charles John Wood from Manchester England. I'm in contact with him I'll figure out how to get him the money if you guys want to help. He is going to University for Architecture

WeSTOC 09 - headed home - Eureka

2009-08-28T17:22:00.004-06:00

A late start after goodbyes made it uncomfortably hot so I stopped early in Eureka... Got an early start in the morning and hopefully make it home tomorrow. I rode 10 to 4 instead of the usual 9 to 9. Tomorrow will be 4 to 9 but should be a lot more comfortable.

Garmin player here

WeSTOC 09 - the event - Virginia City and tires

2009-08-27T17:15:00.004-06:00

Thu - Virginia city with Steve and Tim for Breakfast. Hans and his wife joined us a bit later. I rode with Hans to the Cumbus and Toltec train at Chalma during WeSTOC in Taos last year.

While I was there the shop called and told me the tires were in so I rode back to Minden and left Rick's bike with them so the could take their time installing them. TESTA RACING in Minden
Amount: $ 347.72 that is really good. Usually tires on the road are a rip-off.

The banquet was this evening and I sat with my new friend Roulf and I got to see Georgette and Danny.. I talked with Dan in the parking lot for so long I did not pack for the ride home tomorrow.

Garmin player here

WeSTOC 09 - the event - Markleeville

2009-08-26T17:06:00.001-06:00

Wed - short ride about 80 miles round trip up to the hotsprings near Markleeville, CA... I went back to the little town and took a nap on the picnic table. Made friends with a little bird who though he wanted my ice cream but then didn't like it. I bought him some almonds instead. The little pig at so many he was over GVW I'm sure he could not fly. I had such a good time that I was hoping the rest of the group would not hurry back thinking I was waiting for them.

Garmin player here

WeSTOC 09 - Day 3... arrival

2009-08-24T16:57:00.002-06:00

Tuesday Aug 24, 2009

After spending the night in the Volcano Nat'l Park campground I headed for Minden. I took a nice 3 mile hike to Kings Falls and did very well. I arrived too late to register but will track that down later

Garmin Player here includes the hike but data is missing from the end of the ride (batteries)

WeSTOC 09 - Day 2

2009-08-23T07:51:00.012-06:00

Woke up to rain drumming on the gas fireplace stovepipe. Dandy... well I've ridden this bike not one day without rain. Plan to ride to Salmon, Stanley, Lowman the toward Boise avoiding the rain if possible. Seems it is always misty when I ride 21. Tim and the others are going to Elko... I'm not! I'll be into Minden TUE afternoon or so... more later... repacking, still not used to the Top box.... Thanks, Rick

cont.
Lunch at Southfork Resort near Lowman, ID... 45 min to get a very good Philly cheesesteak... I better roll!

Pic link for day 3 starts here

Could not resist riding ID21 about 12 miles toward Boise, but the traffic was thick so I turned around and rode back down to South Fork then west to Ontario, Oregon where I got new batteries for the SPOT. Maybe it'll work better. After changing the batteries in SPOT, I forgot to reset the timer on the Garmin... toooo many gadgets!

Overnight at Americas Best Motel in Hines, OR.

It was very relaxing ride from Ontario to Hines. Although my heart rate jumped to 127 at one point... I don't remember that... or was it that pass... hummm? Or the 2 sheriffs on the 55mph pristine pavement road that should be 70 mph like Montana?

I found a carwash 2 blocks from the motel and washed the bugs off Rick's bike... I hope he's happy. I miss my friend... he should be here.

A scenic ride is in store tomorrow according to the lady at the Ontario, Oregon Welcome Center... we shall see. Anything is better than northern Nevada.

Garmin player here ... some data missing... duh
Total 544 miles today - 406 left to Minden per Mapquest

or Facebook footprints here

follow along with SPOT real time here

WeSTOC 2009 - Day 1

2009-08-22T22:52:00.009-06:00

It had been so long since I worked that I forgot the combination to my locker in Helena... not right away... when I tied up I remembered it. The next day I could not get the damn thing open. An old peoples moment. Ended up cutting the lock off. Leaving my locker unlocked and returning home. What a day it was. I fixed the A/C on my Helena car. Let it idle forgetting it doesn't like that. Sure enough it loaded up and quit in the Bank parking lot so I left it there telling them I would retrive it in a few days.

THEN, the RR gave me the week off. I had requested it ages ago for WeSTOC but didn't really think I would get it with summer vacations. The tunnel cave in gave every one plenty of time off this summer so the RR was able to spare me. No one else wanted the time slot so I got it. I'm broke but had 5 flex days left.

After Rick passed away it makes me live a little ( a least for awhile until I run out of $$$$)

So I am riding his bike to WeSTOC. When I was sick myself it changed me a little but Rick was so close too retirement. What a shame he never got to enjoy his retirement.

I left Billings and rode to Helena. Stopped at Walmart and got a new lock for the locker. Went down to the RR, locked the locker... got the keys to the car out of my pants that were hanging in the locker. Rode to the bank. Started the car, it fired right up. Drove it the few blocks to the motel the RR uses. Walked back to the bike. Left Helena... forgot to get gas. Got gas at the Montana City exit. Rode to Butte on I-15 then on south to Divide then over to Wisdom. Had a nice steak sandwich and salad at the Big Hole Cafe in Wisdom... was that wise?... yes it was! Very good. Pretty waitress... her boss is kind of a dick. I used to wait tables. She did a good job. I left her $5

I ended up in North Fork, ID... I'm on a good pace even after the detour
My cheapo motel that Gene and I stayed in after WeSTOC Kimberly remodeled and went up to $73... very nice though, and lightning fast WiFi.

I borrowed some old towels from the motel, and cleaned Rick's bike up really well. No more bugs!

PHOTOS HERE: (just a few) go to WeSTOC 09

GARMIN PLAYER DAY1 HERE <-- this is cool! but after the fact. Follow along with SPOT real time here

Enough is enough

2009-07-08T01:07:00.001-06:00

The never ending coverage and attention of the news media and public about the death of Michael Jackson reveals the shallowness of our value system in this country.

This puts things into perspective:

While the focus today, tomorrow and for the next God-knows-how-many-days will be the death of a pop culture icon; while many will mourn, wail and quite literally make fools of themselves over it and while as many will speak endlessly about it, allow me, if only for a moment, to remind us all that others have died this month; others whose lives were cut short; others who leave behind loved ones and whose families will dearly miss them; families who'll suffer with much more dignity and honor than we'll be exposed to on the tube in the coming days.

Yes... it's true... we've suffered a great loss... but forgive me while I tell you that I'm not talking about the king of pop music.

These American military members died in Iraq this month:
Sergeant Justin J. Duffy
Specialist Christopher M. Kurth
Specialist Charles D. Parrish
Lance Corporal Robert D. Ulmer
Staff Sergeant Edmond L. Lo
Sergeant Joshua W. Soto
Captain Kafele H. Sims
Specialist Chancellor A. Keesling

And these members of our U.S. Armed Forces died in Afghanistan this month:
Sergeant Jones, Ricky D.
Specialist Munguia Rivas, Rodrigo A.
Command Master Chief Petty Officer Garber, Jeffrey J.
1st Sergeant Blair, John D.
Sergeant Smith, Paul G.
Staff Sergeant Melton, Joshua
Sergeant 1st Class Dupont, Kevin A.
Specialist O'Neill, Jonathan C.
Chief Warrant Officer Richardson Jr., Ricky L.
Specialist Silva, Eduardo S. Lance
Corporal Whittle, Joshua R.
Major Barnes, Rocco M.
Major Jenrette, Kevin M.
Staff Sergeant Beale, John C.
Specialist Jordan, Jeffrey W.
Specialist Griemel, Jarrett P.
Specialist Hernandez I, Roberto A.
Sergeant Obakrairur, Jasper K.
Staff Sergeant Hall, Jeffrey A.
Private 1st Class Ogden, Matthew D.
Private 1st Class Wilson, Matthew W.

the above was forwarded to me by one of the guys in my motorcycle group

BearSTOC - SPOT locator - Mr. Gadget

2009-06-16T19:21:00.005-06:00

Looks like the BearSTOC ride may be wet...

A co worker calls me Mr. Gadget.

Well, I have a new one. It is so cool.

It is a SPOT locator.

To follow along our ride click here

ST report - we "hoist a glass" to Rick

2009-06-07T18:39:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I returned from Calgary after attending ST rider "Starfighter" Rick Wilson's "Hoist a Glass" at the Flight Deck Club near the airport in Calgary. I'm really glad I went. Good turnout. It was a bittersweet thing. Rick passed away recently and all his many friends been dealing with his passing. There were a least 150 people at the Flight Deck.

I did enjoy listening to Rick's F-104 buddies talking about their Air Force experiences in Germany. And it was not surprising to hear how well respected he was in the Canadian Air Force and at West Jet.

On the way home I stopped in the little Air Museum in Nanton, Alberta. I signed the guestbook thanking Rick for his service to his country.

I put the pics from the trip in the BearSTOC 2009 Memorial Ride folder on my Smugmug site.

ST Ride report - one more time

2009-06-02T02:15:00.010-06:00

Today, June 2, 2009

I'll head for home via US 12 from Kamiah to Lolo and from Lolo whichever route suits my mood

Pics for today start here

Left Kamiah at about 0930... breakfast as usual at Lowell... 45min delays for construction... they are putting in culverts. The construction lasted for 23 miles... Round 3 Lolo pass road today (TUE)

I rode Lolo pass road round 1 westbound on FRI... they all took a day off as one of the foreman was killed off duty on his ATV... the workers went to the funeral... I rode round 2 (SAT) eastbound it wasn't an issue, they don't work weekends

After the construction ended at MP111 and after I passed 2 big trucks and 3 motorhome and about 4 cars I only overtook a couple of cars even though I averaged about 70. A soda at Lochsa Lodge, then didn't stop again 'til Missoula when I put in the Tourmaster rain liner... it was getting cool and spitting rain.

I didn't have a close call the entire trip but a lady in a cage managed to cut me off twice in Missoula... it wasn't close but I suspected she just wasn't paying attention so I just turn into the McDucks after she changed into my lane the second time.

I had caught up to an FJR rider at Lolo . He and his buddy were from Salt Lake... they were headed for Seeley lake. Good luck... it was already getting cold.

I hated to do it but I got on the I90 eastbound for Billings. At Drummond, I could not help myself and turned south onto Hwy 1 for the Pintner scenic route. Downright cold up on top of the 6400 foot pass... 42F and starting to rain harder.

Gassed up in Anaconda. GPS showed 249 miles to home. Intended to not stop until Billings but it was raining pretty hard at Bozeman and getting colder yet. I got off at the Bear Rd exit, slid under the overpass and put on the aux. rain gear. Finished the next 130 miles in the rain arriving home about 845pm... and the bike was nearly out of gas... running 80 or so when the pavement was dry it only got about 38mpg.

I was chilled and went inside, Maggie had Lasagne waiting... I started the gas stove and turned the hot tub back up to 102F. We turned it down to 85F so Connor can use it as a pool. He loves the water.

Miles Today - 505 - MAP

Miles for the entire trip - 2804

ST Ride - ID 3 & P1 a 48 rating

2009-06-01T23:27:00.004-06:00

Monday June 1, 2009

Last night I rolled into Trout Creek think of pitching the tent on the RR right of way back a ways. I stopped to get a pint of milk and spotted a ST1300 across the street at a motel. Walking is still an issue but I hobbled over to ask the guys about the rate. Really nice Canadians again. One on a ST1300 another on a Ducati 1000 and two more on Victory's

Emphasis of today's ride was Highway 3 the White Pine Scenic Byway from the Cataldo Mission (left)to Bovill.

At Bovill, I started up the hill toward Elk River... a cool little town as I remember but I was unsure if the road from Elk River to Orofino had been paved. I stopped in the driveway of the nicest guy. Bob Allen came out to the end of his driveway with the most friendly manner. We talked for 45 minutes... imagine that. His hometown is Kendrick, just southwest a bit. He told me to go to Kendrick and at the bottom of the hill turn left and take the P1 over to the Dam (file photo from WeSTOC 2003) and on into Orofino. I rode down to the intersection and took some pictures at the old RR crossing of the wild flowers and Bob's place and his big red barn. His little 44 acre farm was once the dairy. He is selling the place and splitting the property to build a campground up above the house. There is a circle drive that will be perfect. I followed a logging truck full of Cedar logs that reminded me of my Son-in-law who makes Cedar furniture. He'd kill for a load like that. I think Idaho logging marketing needs a new catch phrase - "got wood"?

What a ride.. a canyon of trees initially but more pristine pavement like the north end of hwy 3. A fantastic road has just been completed down into Kendrick. The town has seen better days as many here have in the logging area .

I'd love to fix up this old place in Kendrick, ID. People were very nice here too, I see where Bob gets it. And old couple sitting out on the front porch waved from their main street home. I stopped in the grocery store for my usual chocolate milk... seems I just missed the famous Pioneer Locust Festival... no, I didn't ask.

I didn't turn left as you can tell, but rather rode into town to find the RR depot as there were obviously tracks here at one time. A sad example of what is happening to this once a part of Americana, the Kendrick depot. A nice new campground with the cleanest bathroom I've ever seen... I hated to do do!

Leaving under Bob's advice, I followed a school bus up the 8% grade of P1 and up onto the rolling hills of Idaho. It reminds me of Iowa with the big barns and all the old buildings falling down artistically. One of them was an old house with volunteer yellow roses. A lady knew exactly what I was doing when I stopped to take the photo. Continuing on toward Dvorsack Dam (see WeSTOC 2003 gallery) and up onto a high hill overlooking a Switzerland like valley... beautiful... Bob wasn't kidding.

start of day pics click here

308 miles today - MAP

ST ride report - the ST Mother Road... both ways!

2009-06-01T07:44:00.002-06:00

Good news Bad news

Becky's Burgers is no more in Orofino.
Shakes a still very good but in a Styrofoam cup

Sorry to mislead you guys but I rode the ST Mother road west today...

359 miles including the very enjoyable side loop to Weippe
although next time I'll go to Weippe and back without going to Grangemont... the road is rough

Hi temp 92F in Orofino, ID.
min alt - 1200 ft in Orofino max 6200 Lolo pass

I'm in Kooskia, ID now... gonna ride it east tomorrow... then either go home or thru Glacier... my foot hurts... whaaaa... but worse than that Maggie has a bad cold... my trip my be shortened yet again

Click here for all the photos of the day

captions on the picture complete.... and yea there are too many but smugmug isn't webshots, so enjoy.