Great post Rick!
I think I was the only crew member from the 1976 season that was there Rick, but I did think of you many times as we made our way up the hill. I know you were there in spirit. I also know that Roy, Floyd, Jim, George and all the other’s that are no longer with us were there in spirit as well. I thought about everyone that evening as the last train came up the hill.
As for me, I have kept my opinions regarding the CSHS and the end of the Loop as we knew it, to myself, for personal and professional reasons. I will say however, that my six seasons on the loop (my very first job) were the best of my tourist railroad carrier. I learned more than just how to railroad, but also how to get along with people, how to work hard and take pride in the work I did. These things, along with the work ethic that was instilled in me during those years, has helped me throughout my railroad carrier. I would like to think that today I am a better railroader (I still consider myself one) and a better person, thanks to the people I worked with during my years on the “Loop”. Thanks Lindsey, Rosa and Dave for putting up with me all those years, and letting me learn and grow.
Mike Ramsey