Re: Hold on there, Taylor

Boy I should probably stay out of this, but hey this is a discussion forum. First I have only the highest respect for UP and the folks of their steam program. I enjoyed sharing a soda and conversation with Lynn N and Bob K in StLouis back in 90. At the time they were telling me how dissapointed that the 1218 was so small " /> I fully understand the roads reluctance to allowing forign operators on their road, but I am willing to bet that some kind of deal or system could be worked out to certify a select few operations that have shown that they can "cut the mustard" so to speak and have a proven track record of a professional operation. (Cotton Belt 819/Frisco 1522/Milw 261/NKP765/SP 4449 etc.) I know that there are others, but what I mean is that the UP would have to set up rules and specs for these operations to follow etc.. I may be mistaken, but I have heard that some members of UP's crews are members of some of these organizations. I surely am not suggesting that they open the gates, but I think some workable solution that would be beneficial to both parties could be worked out. One of my best steam trip memories is of the 844 trip on the "New Line" from Proviso to Butler Wisconsin back in 96. I am very grateful to the UP for offering my wife and me the oppertunity to ride on that trip. Just my $.02 worth, and maybe not worth that much. Finally, Rick can you tell me what the condition of the 838 is? What damage was done to her during the scavenger time? Any thing permanent/ Thanks for your reply!
Steve