Dexter D. Day Retires As General Manager

THE CLUB CAR Bulletin 678 Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc. www.ncry.org February 2020 Dexter D. Day retires as General Manager

Photo by Alan Siegwarth Dexter Day checking operations.

IN THIS ISSUE: ------President’s Report ------Membership Report The inaugural meeting of the Oper- and its impacts were discussed. The 3 ations Planning Committee (with 25 main output from the meeting was that 4 GM Report attendees) was held on Saturday, Jan- we will pretty much operate following uary 11th at the White House in Bright- last year’s schedule regarding depar- 5 Treasurer Report side. The meeting broke up for lunch, ture times and numbers of runs, but and then resumed and we talked for several changes will need to be re- 8 Throwing the Switch another couple of hours. We discussed viewed for future years. the number of steam operating dates, To this end, the Operations Planning 9 NCRy 2020 Schedule including a number of steam powered Committee was formalized, and the fol- Volunteer Report charters. The increased operations for 15 charters associated with Casa Bella Continued on Page 6 OUR MISSION: To be an operating railroad museum for standard gauge railroading, past, present and future, with emphasis on the Western United States and special emphasis on Northern California BOARDING LOCATIONS MEETINGS Most General Meetings take place at NILES STATION Sunol Glen School in Sunol. 37029 Mission Blvd. Meetings are held in January, Fremont, CA 94536 March, May, June, July, and October, but can be subject to cancellation. SUNOL STATION Board of Directors Meeting Saturday, February 8 6 Kilkare Road 3:00 pm Sunol, CA 94586 White House ======BOARD OF DIRECTORS ======President Henry Baum (925) 447-7358 [email protected] TIME CHANGE Vice President Mike Strider (707) 318-2633 [email protected] Recording Secretary Jim Evans (650) 697-9033 [email protected] DUE TO CHARTER Membership Secretary Linda Stanley (510) 579-6300 [email protected] Treasurer Pat Stratton (650) 888-8619 [email protected] General Manager Stephen Bakkarie 510-368-1733 [email protected] Membership Meeting Director-At-Large Jim Stewart (510) 796-2810 [email protected] NO MEETING Director-At-Large Kent Hedberg (415) 608-3811 [email protected] THIS MONTH Director-At-Large Gail Hedberg (510) 207-5524 [email protected] ======DEPARTMENTS ======Brush Cutting Steve Jones (510) 289-3559 [email protected] CLUB CAR Car Department Dennis Mann (650) 726-0167 [email protected] DEADLINE Charter Agent/Docents Jim Evans (650) 697-9033 [email protected] Chief Engineer Mike Strider (707) 318-2633 [email protected] The deadline for submitting Club Car Editor Barry Lependorf (510) 431-3401 [email protected] articles and photos for next Commissary Bob Bradley (510) 910-7024 [email protected] month’s issue of The Club Car Crew Caller Jackie Vlasak (510) 582-2648 [email protected] is the 20th of this month. Gift Shop Gail Hedberg (510) 207-5524 [email protected] Submitting articles is easy by Hazmat Manager Doug Debs (650) 704-1487 [email protected] e-mail in Word text format. Insurance Roger McCluney (510) 489-4114 [email protected] Send e-mail to: Legal Steve Wood, Esq. (925) 938-6100 [email protected] [email protected] Member Communications Linda Stanley (510) 579-6300 [email protected] Museum Curator Dennis Mann (650) 726-0167 [email protected] Digital photos may also be New Member Orientation Glenn Fountain (510) 673-1084 [email protected] submitted by e-mail. Electronic Public Relations Henry Baum (925) 447-7358 [email protected] images should be saved as PC Road Foreman of Engines Kent Hedberg (415) 608-3811 [email protected] format .jpg files with minimal Security Department Jim Evans (650) 697-9033 [email protected] compression (i.e., average to Signal Department Curt Hoppins (408) 723-1154 [email protected] excellent quality). A text file with Station Agent - Niles John Fenstermacher (510) 522-7949 [email protected] the photo number, description of Station Agent - Sunol Donna Alexander (510) 996-8420 [email protected] photo and identifying the people Steam Department Head Alan Siegwarth (408) 515-4602 [email protected] in them is required. Steam Hosteler Training Jeff Schwab (510) 734-6890 [email protected] The editor reserves the right Train master Mark Miller (510) 502-8521 [email protected] to hold or edit material as nec- Volunteer Coordinator Ed Best (925) 998-8743 [email protected] Yardmaster Gerry Feeney (408) 739-9347 [email protected] essary. The Club Car is an official publication of the Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc., P.O. Box 515, Sunol, CA 94586-0515 . The Club Car is distributed monthly to members, sponsors and friends of the Pacific Locomotive Association. The Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc. is an IRS Code 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. The PLA’s Federal Tax ID is 94-6130878, the State of California Tax ID is 0501445. General Meetings are held on the 3rd Friday of January, May & July at 7:30 p.m. and the 3rd Saturday of March, June & October at 3:30 pm at the Sunol Glen School, two blocks east of the Depot on Main Street in Sunol, CA. Members, Sponsors & Guests are welcome. Items in this publication are Copyright © 2020, Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc. and may be reproduced only by permission with credit to the source. Views expressed herein are those of the author unless specifically noted by the editor as official policy. The Pacific Locomotive Association is a member of the Association of Tourist Railroads and Railway Museums. (ATRRM) Page 2 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ======February Activities ======February 1 1st Saturday East Track Building, 8 am, (Brightside Yard) February 8 2nd Saturday Board of Directors Meeting, 3 pm (Brightside) February 22 4th Saturday Brush Cutting, 8 am (Brightside Yard) ------Membership Report ------

Overheard between two NCRY members: Jay Foreman, Bill Rupp, teers who have ‘Left the Station’. Each members the first of the year: “Any Nicholas Alexander, Garrett Farwell, year, current members would be in- New Year’s Resolutions?” Response: the father and son team of Abrahan cluded for consideration as they reach “Signed up for a gym membership” and Matthew Espinoza, Nancy Masto- 30 years of PLA membership. Voting Reply: Gym membership!?! Why you ras, and Norman Kyte. I have person- members will vote for those volunteers can get the best work-out in the Bay ally met - and volunteered alongside who they feel have in the past and for Area -right here- at the Niles Canyon - some of these new members who those who continue to contribute sig- Railway’s ‘Health Club’. There is spike already enjoy this unique access to nificantly to the PLA’s stated mission to driving as we build track East, tree and beautiful Niles Canyon. If you haven’t “be an operating railroad museum….”. brush clearing along ten miles of Right already -please arrange for your per- Plurality of votes by Voting Members for of Way, all manner of work on locomo- sonalized facilities tour and train ride an individual will determine the Golden tives and passenger cars, coupler re- with volunteer Glenn Fountain (Info pg. Spike’s Class of 2020! leasing, air hose connecting and hand- 2 of Club Car). Preserving the Past by Honoring our brake set and releasing….Hey! those Are you a Voting Member? If so, Roots - last three sound like Brakeman duties! you may soon have the opportunity to Linda Stanley How can I learn how to do that? Glad vote for multiple, long-time outstanding Membership Secretary you asked! There will be a Brakeman’s volunteers for inclusion on the PLA’s Class this month on February 22-23, Lifetime Achievement Award (LTAA or contact: [email protected] to re- ‘Golden Spike’ Award, introduced in serve your spot in this popular class. May 2019 Club Car). The proposed February BOD Meeting Hope you had the opportunity to en- selection process will run concurrently joy the fellowship at the first member- with the Board of Director’s elections Saturday, February 8 ship meeting of 2020. Warren Haack that take place every June. The crite- premiered his new DVD “Two Mallets ria for award consideration are quite 3 pm in Niles Canyon”, showcasing NCRY’s simple – the honorees will have been at the White House Steam Dept. volunteers, the Clover Val- members of the PLA for a minimum = = = = = ley #4 and Skookum #7. Members: You of 30 years and considered by Voting No Membership Meeting can get your copy at a 10% discount Members to have volunteered at a con- in February at the Sunol Depot Gift Store beginning sistently high level over the years. = = = = = February. No membership meeting is For example, a full list of the names March BOD Meeting scheduled for February, but hope to of the ‘Pioneers’ – those who were invi- Saturday, March 14 have Warren back in March to share tees of 2018’s- 30th Anniversary of the more of his entertaining RR-themed first NCRY revenue run of the M200 in 3 pm films from Catenary Video Productions. 1988 would be included for consider- at the White House Joining the PLA for this period are new ation, along with those revered volun- E-Coupling Information Website: http://www.ncry.org Email: To Join Members Email List, send an Email to: [email protected] Twitter: @toots4ncry Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NilesCanyonRailway YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/NilesCanyonRailRoad

February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 3 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Along the Right of Way ------

Ever since Steve Slabach made me all the way to the plant. Within minutes, Stephen is perfect for this position. I his General Manager, it has been an Steve was on a call to Ford headquar- will let him tell you about it if you want adventure that I was lucky enough to ters and was talking to their president. to hear it. I have depended on him for participate in as the organization and Adventures like this at the Ford plant years to get stuff done along the right railroad were going through growing were not a one-time thing. I will be of way. You will appreciate him in this pains. starting a new article called ‘Tales of position! It was a struggle, but we seemed to the Past’ in which a lot of adventures Thus, Stephen Barkkarie will continue find our way out of the position we were will be brought back to life. in the role of GM and the GMs in the in as a railroad. I came on board when At this time, we are in very good shape past. I am allowing Stephen the op- we were ripping up the old Ford plant as far as a tourist railroad goes. Oh, I portunity to use the title of this monthly for its track material. The easy break-in forgot, “A rolling railroad museum”. I article (ALONG THE RIGHT OF WAY), period was over. Got a call from Steve have this flash back on what it was and under his name. that a contractor was stealing some of what I am now looking at. Peter Schul- With that said, I am glad I have had our material for scrap. Steve picked me ze and I walked this railroad before the the opportunity to serve as the GM of up and off we went to the Ford plant. If Southern Pacific ripped it up. I saw it NCRy for the past (?) years as the lon- Steve had had a red rotating light in his after they leveled it. A heart dropper! gest-serving GM. I have to say, a lot of trunk, it would have been a red light run Now, as I look at it today, it is in better good people were in the right position shape than memory can recall. The at the right time. Some are no longer NCRy is the number one class II rail- with us. Without them, we would have BRAKEMEN TRAINING CLASS road on the west coast. It should be! been a lot weaker as an organization. We have dropped a lot of money into So, as current GM, I will say, ‘So This is for members who OUR track structure. NCRy is on solid long, work as a team and Stephen will would like to be part of the ground. The track is smooth and the be with you’. For the last time, I hope train crew and learn railroad is growing faster that we can to see you all ALONG THE RIGHT OF railroading. This is the keep up with sometimes. New Gen- WAY. eral Manager, Stephen Barkkarie, will starting Point to be our new full-time GM who will have Dexter D. Day Railroading and several new challenges to attack and General Manager train operation. overcome. I had our challenges at the RETIRED beginning stages of this railroad. Ste- Class dates will be: phen will have his challenges which are to protect what we have created, and to Commissary expand on new devices such as a pit Feb 22 / 23 to make our job easier on equipment Training At Brightside inspections. White House When the NCRy started, we were Commissary will be holding a train- 0900 to 1600 not under the FRA/PUC rules. We had ing class on: Material will be provided. nothing to offer for them to inspect, but February 29th at 10 AM Stephen will be working under nothing in the All Day Lunch at Brightside Must be in good physical condi- but regulations. I had my share of it yard. tion, able to bend over, and have and you learn to deal with agencies Volunteers who are interested strength in arms. that inspect you. In addition, Stephen in getting trained for Commissary

has some improvement plans which I Snack Bar and ADL service please Hope to see you in class am excited about. send an e-mail to (ncry.commis-

This has been a change coming down [email protected]) or call 510-910- Send E mail to: to our last Board of Directors meeting 7024 to let us know you plan on at- [email protected] when the vote was taken to accept Ste- tending. phen as our new GM. I gave him my Dexter D. Day vote and a handshake and also wished Commissary Manager OPS MGR him good luck. With his background, Bob Bradley

Page 4 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Treasurer’s Report ------Happy Holidays were All Around Us have planned over the next 9 months. unteer, or send me an email. but now our flagship holiday train, the Our Board and department heads are Train of Lights, has come to a very fes- currently planning minor revisions to Pat Stratton, Treasurer tive and safe conclusion. The proceeds the budget as a guide toward this end. [email protected] from this activity funds itself and over On December 20 a donation of 100 650-888-8619 half of our other regular operations. If shares of Starbucks stock (SBUX) was you have been a volunteer worker on made to the PLA by Jeffrey CE Vans. any aspect of this TOL program you We are very grateful to Mr. Vans for BRAKEMEN TRAINING CLASS know how hard everyone works, and this financial donation; we are hoping how good a time we all have setting to discover who he is so that he can be This is for members who the stage for our passengers’ holiday properly thanked. would like to be part of the family experience. Thank you for your In support of the PLA through formal participation. donations, individuals made contribu- train crew and learn Financially we are in very good shape. tions totaling over $22,000 during De- railroading. This is the We have cash from our TOL operations, cember. If you would like to support the starting Point to which we must be stingy with so that it Niles Canyon Railway with more than Railroading and will provide funding for some of the big- your membership and your volunteer train operation. ger repair and restoration projects we time, you can donate to the General Fund or to any specific project we have under way, such as restoration of the Class dates will be: TAX DEDUCTIBLE: The Pa- new GN1242 Ranch Car which we cific Locomotive Association would like to have in service this sum- Feb 22 / 23 is qualified under Internal mer; or a new paint job for a deserving At Brightside locomotive, passenger or freight car. Revenue Service code White House For more information look in our Club 0900 to 1600 section 501 (c)(3) as a tax Car newsletter, ask any uniformed vol- Material will be provided. exempt organization. Thus, donations to the PLA are Must be in good physical condi- tax deductible as CHARI- DID YOU KNOW! tion, able to bend over, and have TABLE CONTRIBUTIONS strength in arms. Café Bistro at Casa Bella in Su- to the extent allowed by law. nol now offers a 10% discount on Hope to see you in class Our mailing address is P.O. your whole order. Box 515, Sunol, CA 94586- Send E mail to: 0515. The PLA’s Federal ID NCRy branded apparel (or a [email protected] Membership Card) will get you is: 94-6130878, CA ID is: the discount if they don’t recog- Dexter D. Day 0501445. nize you! OPS MGR

Want to Volunteer? Department Contacts are listed below: BRUSH CUTTING - Clearing the RoW of bushes and trees - Steve Jones - [email protected] CAR MAINTENANCE - Maintenance and repair - Tom Crawford - [email protected] COMMISSARY - Food service on the trains - Bob Bradley - [email protected] GIFT SHOP - Work in the Sunol Gift Shop - Gail Hedberg - [email protected] MOW CREW - (WEDNESDAY) - Work on track repair, etc. - Ron Thomas - [email protected] MOW CREW - (SATURDAY) - Work on building track East. Michael Strider - [email protected] SIGNALS - Install/Maintain signal systems - Curt Hoppins - [email protected] STATION - (NILES) - Work parking, ticket sales, set-up, etc. - John Fenstermacher - [email protected] STATION - (SUNOL) - Work parking, ticket sales, set-up, etc. - Donna Alexander - [email protected] STEAM DEPARTMENT - Work in all aspects of steam engines - Alan Siegwarth - [email protected] STEAM HOSTLER TRAINING - Prepare a steam locomotive for service - Jeff Schwab - [email protected] February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 5 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------President’s Report ------

Continued from Page 1 His professional experience has trans- lated into making the Niles Canyon lowing volunteers are committee mem- Railway the finest ‘excursion’ railroad in bers: Gail Hedberg, Kent Hedberg, the country (my opinion anyway). Dex- Donna Alexander, Warren Haack, Ed ter has been instrumental in develop- Best, Mark Miller, Bob Bradley, Jim ing the Operating Rules that guide the Stewart, Doug Debs, Laura Bajuk, Der- operations of the railroad. Our rulebook ek Schipper, Chris Hauf, and myself. is derived from the standard rule books The next meeting will be scheduled of other operating railroads but has all for February 15th, 10AM at the White the necessary tweaks that make it work House. This is a good mix of talented for us. people, and great things are expected. Some of my favorite stories about As I brought up last month, the PLA Dexter revolve around his dealings with has grown to the point where we need the CPUC and FRA inspectors who to turn over the management of the come around and evaluate our Opera- Niles Canyon Railway to a Profes- tions. One time the FRA inspector was sional Management Service. It is the having a ride-along and asked to see dawn of a new era for PLA, and I still the ‘Blue Card’ (the inspection and reg- need everyone to support us in this sea istration card for the locomotive). The change. inspector was shown the locomotive’s At the same time, this also marks the Blue Card, and commended us on end of an era for the PLA. Over the the fact that we were up to date. The Photo by Curt Hoppins years, a number of folks have dedicat- inspector made a point of telling Dex- Dexter D. Day, General Manager, Retired. ed their volunteer efforts to serve as ter that they would be checking those the General Manager of the operation. whenever they came out to do an in- agreed to stay on as General Manager, Without a doubt though, the success spection. Dexter informed the inspec- because we had such a great working of the PLA can be directly linked to the tor that, although we do follow the Blue relationship. When I ran for reelec- years when Dexter Day was the Gener- Card regulations, we actually are not tion, Dexter told me he would stay on al Manager. For over 30 years, Dexter required to meet Federal Blue Card as General Manager as long as I was has been the person willing to take on regulations and explained the reasons President. That was a major weight off the additional responsibility of dealing why we were exempt. The Inspector my mind to know I would have that ex- with the day to day pressures of run- didn’t know what to say, but we know perience in place and it allowed us to ning a railroad. There are a number of that the fact that we follow regulations take the PLA into the state where it is. reasons why Dexter was so good at the because we value their control, and not When Dexter told me that, neither of job. because we have to, moves us way up us would have thought we would still If you go through the member list of on the inspector’s list of favorite rail- be here so many years later. We both the PLA, you will find that a number of roads. agreed that we should be working to members have worked for railroads in That knowledge is so important to us come up with a new methodology for the past, and some currently are work- and is the reason that we have such an handling the General Manager position ing for commercial railroads. Dexter exemplary safety rating. For that rea- and the current situation is what we has taken his love for trains and turned son I am glad that although Dexter will came up with. it into a career that has kept him happily not be the General Manager, he will Dexter will now just concentrate on employed for as long as I can remem- continue to serve as Operations Man- Operations, and that will give him more ber. Dexter is a Senior Conductor for ager until such time as we either find a free time. If he ever does retire from Caltrain and has held that position for volunteer willing to take on that respon- Caltrain, he will know that his experi- many years. He has so much seniori- sibility or hire a professional service to ence will always be desired here. ty and is so well respected by Caltrain perform this function. Our Operations I want to express my sincerest thanks Management that they make it difficult Management have already learned to Dexter for sticking it out for as long for him to retire. I am sure that every- a large amount from Dexter, but I am as he has. I know he is looking forward one who has worked alongside Dex at sure there is a lot more we can learn to seeing this transition go smoothly. Caltrain has benefitted greatly from his from him. I know he has been instrumental in experience. When I first became President, Dexter Continued on next page Page 6 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------President’s Report ------

Continued from previous page long after I have turned over the reins tact me by phone at 925.447.7358 or to a new President (although so far by email at [email protected]. working out how best to handle this nobody has expressed any interest in transition. taking over for me either). There are so Respectfully submitted I don’t want this to sound like an obit- many things that have ‘Dexter’ written Henry Baum uary, as Dexter is in excellent health all over them here at the NCRy that it and I am counting on him to be around would take many pages to enumerate. I do know that Dexter’s designation as Proof Reader Correction ‘Dr. Christmas’ is because his efforts Last month’s Club Car misidentified for Train of Lights is one of his proudest the company that donated crane ser- accomplishments, and I hope he will vices to rig the old and new generators continue to work with Steve Barkkarie out of and into Locomotive 713. The in ensuring our TOL is the finest holiday correct donor was Ed Sherman of En- train in the world. gineered Crane Service. The PLA is As always, if you would like to discuss grateful for his generosity. any topic in further detail, please con- Steve Jones Catenary Video Productions Presents “Skookum” and “CV-4” BRAKEMEN TRAINING CLASS THE COMPLETE STORIES OF Two Mallets In Niles Canyon This is for members who would like to be part of the train crew and learn railroading. This is the starting Point to Railroading and train operation.

Class dates will be:

Feb 22 / 23 At Brightside This fascinating program covers the complete story of two rare White House operating Mallet locomotives: the 1909 “Skookum” , and the 1924 0900 to 1600 “Clover Valley 4”, and will interest those who wish to further their Material will be provided. knowledge of how Mallet locomotives work, watch a locomotive rise from a debris field of parts, or take a cab ride filmed from unique Must be in good physical condi- perspectives. Included are interviews, archival films and photos. tion, able to bend over, and have strength in arms. 60 Minutes, 16x9 Wide Screen Format, Color Full Stereo Sound Track Hope to see you in class DVD - $29.95 ea. Available now in the gift shop in Sunol Send E mail to: Club members get a 10% discount [email protected] Catenary Video Productions Dexter D. Day OPS MGR See Video Promos at: www.catenaryvideo.com

February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 7 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Throwing the Switch ------Well it’s a brand new year. A brand right of way. All these things were done so he could take well-earned time off. new decade, the year 2020, a fine time with the drive of our volunteers under The PLA also sent me to attend a week to look back over all the great things the guidance of our long time General long training seminar in Council Bluffs, we all have accomplished and the right Manager Dexter Day. Iowa where a career FRA inspector/ time to look ahead toward what can be For thirty years Dex has been wran- trainer named Brad Hess taught me done. gling our volunteers from the newest the ins and outs of track inspections. I We pulled off a record breaking student brakeman to the most sea- now am confident that I have the tools Train of Lights, celebrated 150 years soned engineer and many a Board of to keep the Niles Canyon railway rolling of railroad heritage, brought in a sec- Directors. We all owe him a great big smoothly. ond working compound steam engine, round of praise, but time moves on and Enough about me, how about the made great progress in our Eastward Dex has decided to throw the switch railroad? Well, the MOW Dept. hit the build, inspired dozens of new mem- and take the siding from the mainline ground running on January 2nd by re- bers, made needed improvements to General Manager position so he can go moving the “Tree “ from the side of the our facilities and our collection, and back to the Operations Manager job he Engine House and taking advantage of continued to improve our awesome enjoys so much. the passing siding being empty to do For some months now, the Board of some long needed profiling, ballasting, Directors has been looking for some- tamping and regulating. That is just one to take over responsibility for the the Wednesday crew. The Saturday required Federal and State inspections bunch hardened track panels out East. of our track, rolling stock and facilities, You can now stand on railroad track plus the associated record keeping. To and see the Happy Valley bridge. The provide continuity of this service into second week was spent tree trimming the future, contracting this necessary (Niles for the Wed. Warriors and East function out makes sense for a group end oaks for the Sat. bunch). Third our size and a collection so diverse. To Wednesday found MOW split between that end, I am forming a management hosting the “Rail Explorers” Pedal car and consulting corporation to legally group and doing some much needed provide those services while the asso- Spring Cleaning in Brightside. MOW ciation can still maintain its all-volun- area looks much better. John Zielins- teer non-profit status. With my many ki has been doing his usual magic in years of mechanical experience, both several departments. He mends tires, with the NCRY and my own excavating changes lights and sockets, checks company, I look forward to keeping our batteries, chips brush and builds track. incredible rolling stock up to par and I A hard guy to keep up with. The cast can’t tell you how exciting it is to have of characters for these activities includ- a chance to do things like repower a ed Ron Thomas, Pat Stratton, Steve mainline locomotive or restore a clas- Jones, Bob Pratt, Wes Van Osdol, sic piece of railroad history. Although Doug Vanderlee and yours truly. brake testing a railcar may not be a Don’t think we were the only game glamorous job, I can’t think of a better in town. The TOL elves were hard at place to do it or a better group to do it work undoing all their hard work of dec- for. orating. Both interior and exterior crews Having an engineering educational made great headway putting to bed the background and a long time construc- 2019 TOL (forgive me for not attempt- tion business, I am naturally drawn ing to name names, you know who you to the MOW side of railroading and I are and that you are appreciated). Sev- love building track. After several trips eral cars had to be left decorated for a with the FRA and PUC doing their an- charter. It was a wedding out of Sunol Photo by F.R Fontes nual inspections, I was able to qualify for a couple that had their first date on On Saturday January 4, 2020, Frank Fon- tes and Steve Barkkarie installed new to their satisfaction as track inspector our train and were overjoyed to have CPUC required YIELD signs on the at- for NCRY. This allowed me to relieve their reception aboard the train. With grade crossing at Hearst. Peter Schulze on different occasions that and two other charters in Febru- Page 8 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Throwing the Switch ------ary, operations are back in business as well. The Car Department is looking ahead NCRy 2020 SCHEDULE as well. The Great Northern car has been pulled up in front of the car shop Come out and ride or volunteer with us. to begin cleaning and restoration. A Signups for volunteering are now online. plan is being formed for wheel repair and body fixes. The Diner is in line Signups for Train of Lights opportunities to replace a long missing bolster pin. will come later this year. Another bold PLA plan is in the works. Stay tuned for more info. Dennis Mann has plans to replace thin shoes on several cars in the near future and I am Feb. 2 (d), 16 (s) on my way to completing Jim Green’s Mar. 1 (s), 15 (s) amazing work on bi-annual testing of our passenger cars. Mar. 13 - Niles School Train 10:00 a.m.* Mechanical Department (meaning Mar. 21 - Beer on the Rails* 1:00-3:00 p.m. Gerry Feeney) of course has its hands Mar. 27 - Sunol School Train 10:00 a.m. full with the 713 generator replace- ment, car repairs, switching, and en- April 3 - Niles School Train 10:00 a.m.* gine maintenance. (Gerry’s wife has April 5 (s), 12 (s), 19 (s), 26 (d) had a necessary procedure so he will April 18 - Ride the Rails Relay for Life* get some needed time off caring for April 24 - Sunol School Train 10:00 a.m.* her during recovery. We should all keep them in our prayers). Howard and May 3 (s), 10 (s), 17(s), 24 (d), 31 (d) Bill keep steadily rebuilding the mas- May 8, 22 - Niles School Train 10:00 a.m.* sive Krauss-Maffei power plant. Who May 15 - Sunol School Train 10:00 a.m.* knew what that project would become? Amazing. May 24 - Memorial Day Honoring Military* Steam Department has a charter in June 6 - Evening Steam Train ride 7:30 p.m.* February that has the whole shop buzz- June 7 (s), 14 (s), 21 (d), 28 (d) ing with activity. It is a photo Freight special and Chris H. is busy prep- June 20 - Beer on the Rails* 1:00-3:00 p.m. ping several cars for touch up. Henry June 26 - Niles Summer Train 10:00 a.m. Chandler has been seen many days July 5 (d), 12 (s), 19 (s), 26 (d) this month doing who knows what, the July 11 - Evening Steam Train ride 7:30 p.m.* Skookum is getting lots of attention and Alan Siegwarth himself has been July 17 - Sunol Summer Train 10:00am* directing tree cutting for optimal photo August 2 (d), 9 (s), 16 (s), 23 (d), 30 (d) angles. Should be quite an event. Sept. 6 (d), 20 (d) Crews dept. under Trainmaster Mark Miller and Road Foreman of Engines Sept.12 - Beer on the Rails* 1:00-3:00 p.m.* Kent Hedberg has welcomed new E-1s Oct. 3 - Evening Steam Train ride 7:30 p.m.* Jim Stewart and Mark himself this year. Oct. 4 (s), 18 (d) Good job, fellows. A new Brakeman class is scheduled for February 22 & Oct. 10 - TOL TICKETS Sold ONLINE 10:00 a.m.* 23 and Re-certifications for all crews Nov. Train of Lights* Nov. 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 will take place in March. If you ever Dec. Train of Lights* 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 16, 18, thought about being on train crew, I 19, 20, 21, 23, 26, 27, 28, 30 highly recommend it. It is always a fun (s) steam, (d) diesel experience. Stephen Barkkarie February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 9 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Wednesday MoW Report ------

WEDMWOW 2020 began on Thurs- day, January 2nd as we took advantage of the Yard Passing Track being clear to take down the ‘Tree of Lights’ as well as improving the Passing Track by raising sections up, adding ballast and tamping. The following week, we headed down to Niles and reduced the risk of tree branches crashing down on the Security Trailer. During the week of January 13th, part of the WED- MOW team supported the visit of the Rail Explorer team while the remainder performed some much needed spring cleaning around the MOW Shed. The volunteers included (in no particular order) Ron Thomas, Pat Stratton, Wes Van Osdol, Stephen Barkkarie, Steve Jones, Doug Vanderlee and myself. We would love to have you join us at Brightside (5550 Niles Canyon Road) on Wednesdays, at 8:00 a.m. if you have any interest in helping to maintain the Niles Canyon Railway Right of Way. Photo by Pat Stratton Bob Pratt The MoW shed.

Photo by Jim Evans An all WEDMOW Train Crew (Wedding Charter - January 19, 2020) Conductor - John Sutkus, Engineer - Ron Thomas, Fireman - Jim Stewart, Brakemen - Steve Barkkarie AND Bob Pratt, Electrician - Rich Alexander. Page 10 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY

Photos by Dee Murphy

ABOVE: Gerry guiding Rich Anderson on the coupling of the Skookum tender.

LEFT: Gerry taking the SP 9010 out on her first run to get a bath at Sunol Depot.

RIGHT: Gerry BBQing at the 4TH of July Picnic.

February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 11 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Brush Cutting Report ------

Imagine you are one of the many new contact Steve Jones at fcocompost@ Railroading – it’s not all about rusty members of the PLA who joined after aol.com. rails and oily locomotives. riding the world-famous Niles Canyon News Flash: Early planning is under- Railway Train of Lights in December, way for a week long brush cutting blitz Your Brother in Sawdust, and you are reading your first Club Car. in late March. Stay tuned for updates. Steve Jones You see an article titled “Brush Cutting Report”. You may be wondering what brush has to do with railroading. Well, Grasshoppers, railroads do not exist in a vacuum. Our canyon railroad tra- verses a corridor surrounded by trees and brush on both sides. The PLA depends upon a group of volunteers to go out along the right-of-way twice every month (except December) to trim and thin the vegetation to keep it from overwhelming the track. We were for- tunate to get through TOL Season this year without any rock slides or trees falling onto the right of way. In January, the second Wednesday brush cutting day concentrated on lightening and reducing the sail area of a damaged pine tree at the West end of the Niles parking lot. We added a 3rd Saturday special brush cutting day in January, in addition to the regularly Photo by Jim Evans scheduled 4th Saturday event. These Dexter Day enjoying Steam Fest. days concentrated on 4 specific locations in the canyon which had become overgrown and needed to be cleaned up in advance of a special steam photo charter in early February. We chipped up a lot of Bay, Sage and Anise. Smelled great. Afterward, I wanted to go home and make turkey stuffing and Italian Biscotti cookies. Participation in the Brush Cutting gang affords one the opportunity to see the railroad from the ground and to walk in the footsteps of the work- ers who originally graded the land and built the railroad. One can get up close and personal with original construction cut stone and wooden culverts under the track and original Transcontinen- tal Telegraph poles. You can see and touch historic artifacts that you simply cannot appreciate when rolling along on the train at 20 miles per hour. If this sounds like a fun way to spend one Photo by Curt Hoppins Saturday or one Wednesday a month, Dexter Day meets Santa on the TOL.

Page 12 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Dexter D. Day, GM Retired ------

Photo by Dan Sarka Dexter D. Day. General Manager, Retired.

Photos by Alan Siegwarth Right and Below: General Manager Dexter Day out surveying operations.

February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 13 NILES CANYON RAILWAY Hayes Bumping Post added to Verona Spur

Photo by Doug Vanderlee On January 4, 2020, some of the Saturday Maintenance of Way team added a Hayes Bumping Post to the Verona Spur. The Bumping Post panel was constructed at Brightside Yard using two roughly 19 foot sections of 113 lb. rails that both needed to be cut (thanks to John Zielinski for Safety Watch) so there could be a 17 inch stagger and holes drilled. Transported on top of two push carts, the Bumping Post panel bolted easily in place with the Burro 40 crane and will help protect against any Engine or Car running off the end of track and into the future Verona Station. This 19 foot addition makes the spur 170 feet long from switch fouling point to bumping post head. Steve Barkkarie, Chris Campi, Frank Fontes and I had fun installing the Bumping Post and then joined the rest of the MOW gang hardening up the End of Track. Now just to add ballast rock and final level & alignment! Doug Vanderlee Page 14 Pacific Locomotive Association February 2020 NILES CANYON RAILWAY ------Volunteer Report ------By Ed Best The following is a list of the people who helped run your railroad in December – and the November TOL train crew that were not included in last month’s Club Car. Please print your name clearly on all sign in sheets so it can be read. If you find that your name is misspelled, please inform me of the correct spelling. You can also send hours by e-mail to [email protected]. Administrative Mechanical Other Train of Lights Train of Lights Train of Lights Henry Baum Gerald DeWitt Ed Best Ed Best Lou Bradas Sue Thomas Mike Strider Gerry Feeney Patrice Warren Eric Golangco M.W. Stephens Ted Unruh Jim Evans Henry Chandler Steve Jones Eric Wright Madeline Briar Thomas Miller Linda Stanley Howard Wise Wayne Stoddard Frank Fontes Mark Miller Tim Flippo Pat Stratton Jeff Haslam Zonker Harris Gail Hedberg Mark Whitman Tom Crawford Dexter Day Jeff Schwab Garrett Krosse Marsha Golangco Travis Zupo Jim Stewart John Zielinski Train of Lights George Mednick Mary Asturias Warren Haack Kent Hedberg Kent Hedberg Abrahan Espinoza Gerald DeWitt Matthew Espinoza Wayne Stoddard Gail Hedberg Linda Stanley Adam Palmer Gerry Dewees Matthew Petach Wesley Van Osdol Donna Alexander Lou Bradas Al McCracken Glenn Fountain Melody Minto Zonker Harris Rich Alexander Peter Bradas Al Minto Hal Briar Michael Laccabue Steve Barkkarie Rich Anderson Alan Siegwarth Jack Harrington Mike Bozzini November TOL Crew Ed Best Steve Barkkarie Ann Dowling Jackie Vlasak Mike Pechner (Not included Steve Jones Annie Giannini Jacques Verdier Mimi Hamilton last month) Steve Slabach Meetings Bent Christensen Jacqui Szymanski Nancy Dewees Bent Christensen Bob Bradley Bev Patterson Jan Crowley Nancy Harden Bob Pratt Car Department Bob Pratt Bob Bailey Janet Smith Pam Stewart Chris Hamilton Dennis Mann Dave Burla Bob Pratt Jeanne Digel Pat Buder Curt Hoppins Rich Alexander Donna Alexander Bonnie Harrington Jim Evans Pat Hafey Dave Burla Doug Vanderlee Brian Hitchcock Jim Gilmore Pat Stratton Dennis Mann Electrical & Signals Gail Hedberg Brian Schott Jim McDaniel Patrice McDonald Derek Lyon-McKeil Bill Kenney Henry Baum Brooke Murphy Jim Stewart Pete Willis Ed Best Curt Hoppins Jim Evans Bruce Compton Joe Digel Peter Bradas Eric Wright Jim Stewart Jim Stewart Cathy Harrington Joe Peterson Peter Midnight George Mednick John Zielinski Kent Hedberg Charlene Murrell Joe Romani Rakesh Yadan Gerry Feeney Logan Rubasky Linda Stanley Charles Franz Joe Scardino Randy Johnston Jon Williamson Mike Strider Chris Hamilton John Burnside Ray Crist Jackie Vlasak Facilities Pat Stratton Chuck Koehler John Sutkus Rhonda Dijeau John Sutkus Randy Johnston John Zielinski Rich Alexander John Zielinski Clark Fuller John Zielinski Rich Alexander Jon Williamson Rich Anderson Rich Alexander Connie DeGrange Jordan Hamilton Steve Barkkarie Jordan Hamilton Richard Smith Steve Coon Curt Hoppins Jorg Linke Steve Jones Dan Mills Jorg Linke Rick Craigo Kent Hedberg Gift Shop Steve Slabach Dan Sarka Justin Legg Rob Giles Kurt Olsen Dan Thomas Ken Southwick Ron Thomas Mark Miller Charlene Murrell MOW & Track Dave Burla Kent Hedberg Rosanne Strahle Pat Stratton Gail Hedberg Doug Vanderlee Dave Hipple Kurt Olsen Sally Mills Rich Anderson Patrice McDonald Frank Fontes Debora Deadwyler Laura Bajuk Scott Crislip Richard Smith Sue Thomas Mike Strider Dee Murphy Laura England-Witt Shirley Ernest Ron Thomas Lauren Fuller Sierra Murphy Mechanical Derek Lyon-McKeil Scott Crislip Other Derek Schipper Lee Finlayson Steve Barkkarie Steve Barkkarie Alan Siegwarth Barry Lependorf Dexter Day Linda Best Steve Coon Ted Unruh Bill Stimmerman Bob Bailey Donald Kirker Linda Stanley Steve Harrington Travis Zupo Dee Murphy Curt Hoppins Donna Alexander Lindsay Witt Steve Jones Warren Haack Dennis Mann Dexter Day Doug Debs Lisa Lorenz Steve Miller Zonker Harris February 2020 Pacific Locomotive Association Page 15 PACIFIC LOCOMOTIVE ASSOCIATION, INC. 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Photo by Christopher Hauf Skookum #7 runs along Highway 84 with a small freight during some joint NCRy/Roots of Motive Power training sessions.