Showcase Weekend Pt 2

Frank writes...

I don't have too much real information to add to previous accounts, just a few photos I snapped of random subjects.

First, a video of the 1754 and 1808 pulling into 50th Avenue from the west wye. Tim pointed out that for many years in the 1980s and 1990s, these were the only two wooden 'L' cars that ran. The 1808 and 1754 were regulars in the Trolley Pageant for a number of years and it was typically the only time during the year they emerged from the barn. Of course in those days, the 1808 was in better condition than the 1754, unlike now.

Yet another photo of the 1754 and, behind it, the 1808 spotted at 50th before the three service cars showed up and were coupled on.

I "helped" (read as: observed) when it was time to set up the podium for the sign dedication. Here Nick tries out his stand-up comedy routine. He specializes in insult comedy, scatological jokes, and other forms of low humor, and is available for corporate events and children's birthday parties.

While people gathered for the big event I noticed that the Lake City was open for self-guided tours. Here's the observation room.

In the middle of the car are some Pullman sections. Hmm, I hope that guy signed in properly so that Henry is counting his hours.

And the smoking room.

The sign dedication from back in the cheap seats. There was quite a large crowd in attendance, actually, and when the sign lit up there was an appropriate round of oohs and aahs to go with the applause. It's an imposing sign and stands out quite nicely.

Here's the requisite night shot of the Matchbox at Barn 9 North.

And another shot of the Matchbox, this time with the wood 'L' train nicely lit up sitting at 50th Avenue in the background. It's only now that I notice my sign box wasn't lit up... hmm. That's not good, how will riders know what route I'm on?

I grabbed a quick video of the five-car 'L' train pulling out of the station, though they had to stop pretty quickly to throw the east/west track switch. This (or, more correctly, their previous trip) was the first-ever operation of a five-car wood train at IRM. Another highlight of the evening was getting to watch a steam double-header from Electric Park. The Shay was on the point followed by the 1630 and the engines put on quite a show as they roared (and I do mean roared) past the substation at about 10mph. It was extremely impressive! I think this was our first double-header in at least 20 years.