February 2005
My Winter 2005 Amtrak Adventure
[By Allen Brougham] . . .
It has become my tradition to spent time Amtraking in the winter. Riding at this time of year has some wonderful advantages: The trains are generally less crowded, rates are usually lower, and it does not interfere with the activities I so much enjoy at home in the warmer months. Moreover, unlike in the summer, space is often available on very short notice. So the time was once again at hand to experience the true pleasure of travel by the finest means available, and I plotted my itinerary to partake of the speldors of our great land.. To view my story, CLICK HERE..
Watco to Lease CSX Line Between Grafton and Cowen, West Virginia
The Watco Companies Inc. has announced plans to lease from CSX the 158-mile segment of the former B&O between Grafton and Cowen, West Virginia, effective March 25.
NTSB Reports Preliminary Findings on 2001 Tunnel Fire in Baltimore
The National Transportation Safety Board reported January 5 its preliminary findings that the most likely scenario behind Baltimore's Howard Street Tunnel derailment and fire in 2001 involved "an obstruction between a car and wheel and the rail, in combination with changes in track geometry." The agency further could find "no convincing evidence to provide a probable cause" for the accident. A final report on the accident could be months away.
Railroads to Install Reflectors on Locomotives and Cars
The Federal Railroad Administration has issued a rule requiring railroads to install yellow or white reflectors on locomotives and rail cars to make the equipment more visible to motorists at grade crossings. As of March 4, the rule will require railroads to install the reflectors on locomotives over five years, and on freight rail cars over 10 years.
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Renames its Rail Subsidiary
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation has renamed its rail subsidiary BNSF Railway Company, and has unveiled a new logo to be applied to its locomotives and equipment.
Kansas City Southern Orders 30 Locomotives from EMD
Kansas City Southern has ordered thirty SD70ACe locomotives from EMD. KCS expects to take delivery of the units in the fourth quarter.
Rex, My Hound Dog From Miller Tower, Has Died
[By Allen Brougham] . . .
Rex, my hound dog, has died. He was euthanized New Year's Eve following complications from canine lymphoma. Rex had been my buddy for nearly 11 years. He had wandered to Miller Tower as a stray during a 1994 snowstorm, and became a happy member of the family after I brought him home with me several weeks later. His favorite spot in the house was beneath my computer table where he would rest at my feet while I developed material for the Bull Sheet. He will be missed.