Actually, I realize that my post might have been somewhat more acerbic than I intended. My irritation is with "Karasu" and his aspersions that he is attempting to cast on the Ashbys. Upon reading el nehi's post again in a different light I realize that his comments really weren't intended to be disparaging and as such my posted response might seem somewhat b*tchy.
My first reaction is to erase my post (which will be done tomorrow) but since someone else misconstrued MY remarks it seemed only fair to leave the offending post up long enough so that the apology (and the reason for it) would have a context of reference.
For the record: I do not own a railroad. I do not work for a railroad. I am NOT an expert on railroads (steam, mountain or otherwise) and I certainly do not believe that my opinion carries more weight than any other person (ESPECIALLY someone that actually works for, on or with a magnificent railroad like the Sumpter Valley R.R.!!)
That being said, I DO reserve the right to my opinion as a railfan! The GLR was my first steam railroad experience and as such I have perhaps a somewhat myopic attitude towards it. My comments were merely meant to convey my wishes that the Ashby's find another railroad as soon as possible! I consider their operation to have been "a properly run railroad" as opposed to some of the fears being expressed as to how the CHS plans to continue operations (the comment about using volunteers springs to mind.)
There are many fine railroads across the nation. I am endeavoring to ride as many as possible in the time allotted to me. Jerry, I hope you and any others with whom my post might have given offence will accept my profoundest apologies as I have nothing but the greatest respect for all of you and what you do!