September 1, 2013 Sunday Public Run Day Report

September 1, 2013 Sunday Public Run Day Report

Sunday September 1st, 2013 the weather was clear with a slight breeze. Temperature was in the high 70s to low 80s but it was rather humid causing it to feel a lot hotter than it was.

The public run started at 11:00 AM and the station filled after being open about 15 minutes. First train out was Charlie driving Jim Berryman's Sweetcreek C&P #9 pulling 5 cars plus a caboose, he was followed by Kelly and Jeff on their GP pulling 4 cars. Next out was Howie and his SW1500 pulling his riding cars and a mix of some nice looking freight cars. The line was growing so Ray and Matthew pulled out the clubs WCRY #777 SW1500 and 4 of the club riding cars to try and speed up the wait times.

It was a strange day, after the initial assault when we first opened the crowds lightened. I think this may have been due to the heat as well as being a holiday weekend. Attendance Wilson Park in general seemed to be very light. We only had 4 trains running due to the holiday weekend and members traveling etc... Lucky for us that ridership was also light. All total we still hauled 700 plus passengers during the 4 hour period so we were still kept pretty busy.

Robert was the dispatcher and Phil was the gate and loading agent for the day. All trains were routed down the Crenshaw line and then back to the 2 loops in the SCLS main line facility. The figure eight track was closed for this run day due to maintenance in progress.

No troubles reported and no major derailments although we need to look at the green club car as it seems to be a bit touchy.

The heat took its toll and sales of lemonade were brisk, Phil selling to the passengers waiting in line while Robert manned the lemonade stand at the depot. We went through over 5 gallons of lemonade during the time we were open. If they were not thirsty before the train ride, after returning from Crenshaw they were ready for some refreshment!

Many thanks to Carroll, Sonny and Joanne who rain the General Store today, The new SCLS T shirts are a big success, so mus so that we have run out of many sizes and need to reorder. We will soon be selling them on line on this web site for those that cannot make it to the club to purchase theirs. They are very sharp!

Daisy did her magic in the kitchen once again and served up chocolate chip scones and craisin scones with coffee for breakfast. For lunch we were treated to BBQ Thai chicken, special fried rice, bok choy with cashews, and vanilla ice cream for dessert. POG and lemonade to drink. It was fantastic as always.

Overall it was a another beautiful run day, everyone had a great time and we look forward to seeing you all on our next run day on Saturday, September 21st at 12:00 PM.

Have a nice Labor Day holiday and be safe!

Edited by PhilC - Sep 02 2013 at 1:14am