The cat is out of the bag, so no sense keeping it a secret any longer. Greg Scholl, former videographer, and has-been producer is sponsoring a Rotary run with on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad for May 3rd through the 6th or however long it takes to open the line to Antonito.
It was May 1997 when Rotary OY last operated. That was the first time it had operated in the Gray Paint scheme of the 1960's, but this will be the first time it has operated with the traditional Rio Grande lettering. Engines 484,487, and 488 will also be lettered Rio Grande and C&TS commission has decided this is the appropriate lettering to be used from now on for regular tourist operations to promote the living history of the railroad.
In addition all outfit cars and caboose 0503 will be lettered D&RGW. Operating costs are expected to be $12,000 per day, so while there is no charge to see and photograph the rotary operations, trash containers for donations will be located at every crossing and pick-up trucks will follow-along with angled bins for ease in throwing coins into them while chasing.
Rock slides are planned for Windy Point, and Long Run Creek areas to simulate the 1997 experiences as well. There will be some interesting views as Greg will be the plow foreman on the segment from Cox Crossing to the summit of Cumbres. Roof extensions are planned for the OY pilot house to accomodate Greg's height. If I see any fans I know, the rotary chute will be aimed your way in an attempt to score extra points and create memorable videos shot from the Rotary Pilot House.
Lunch will be catered at Cresco by Osier Kitchen. Cost is $100.00 in unmarked $5.00 bills, and includes a copy of the 2007 Rotary video, and a change to run the rotary for 1 mile.
Please book early. Spots are filling up.
Don't get plowed.
Greg
