478/483 swap revisited?

I sence a hi jacking coming. But first I want to say what a great advocate the states and the railroad have gained from this commission appointment. Mr Cowles has been a major source of help and inspiration for a long time. I am sure that all concerned have gained a great person who will honor his duties to all and this includes the citizens of NM as well as the railroad.

Now to the swap idea. Not that votes are taken but I will first state that I would be in support of a proposed swap for many of the previously stated reasons. I recognize with a change of one of the commisioners that voted "no", that maybe there would be a different out come if it came around again. However, let us not forget that after this failed last year, the D&S made a 15 year plan that moved in another direction. I feel it was revealed that their plan was originally centered on repairing the most needy locomotive first. This would have been the 483. When this fell thru, their vision changed to bringing 476 back to life.

My guess is at this point is that both railroads feel a little burned because of the actions of a few people. My guess is if this is revisited sooner rather than later it will be only if the whole thing can be restarted quietly without "public" speculation. This became a big mess last year for both railroads publicly and I will venture to say both will want to avoid that for the foreseeable future.

So in conclusion, let's celebrate a great new addition and revel in what to my eyes has been the best season for C&TS for some time.

Phil