Russo Loco.........
I'm all for a party while we can still do it without listening to our joints pop and crack. Back in the early 90's there was no such thing as a Railfest at the D&S. In 1994 I clearly remember talking to John Noland while we were filming for Ken Burn's "THE WEST" and concluding that it would be a good idea if we did something like bringing Eureka back every year for an event. Ever since 1995, Railfest has been a part of the narrow gauge scene in Colorado. In 1997, we went to the C&TS. It was an enormous success, and paved the way for the Goose and 315 to eventually visit there and Durango as well. Eureka was doing then what it did in the late 19th century: pioneering the way.
The moral of the story is that it does not take much to get the seed germanating, except some willingness to make it happen. There needs to be a little planning, but GOD, not 12 years worth. I'm sure if those of us who have locomotives that travel to host railroads could talk with the host railroad, an event will be put together. The biggest problem as I see it, and always has been, is adequate publicity in advance of the event.
Planning for Eureka this year is coming a little late, but that is because of the waiver issue. But, I think this could be a preview of things to come with Eureka, the 315, Goose and Presidential Special.
I am always inspired by the old Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney movies where there were a bunch of talented kids who would get together and put on a show for some cause. I was even more inspired when I saw Mickey Rooney this year at the age of 87 still putting on a show to a packed theatre. Like Mickey and Judy, all we have to do is DO IT. We not only have the locomotive "talent" mentioned, but there are others out there as well. Besides, I also have some definite ideas on how to make it work for everyone. Then, when 2020 rolls around, I can look back from my couch and say, "Damn! Was that fun back in 20__".
Dan Markoff
