Waited about 6 hours in and out of the Metro Lounge in Chicago. Had an opportunity to watch Amtrak personnel deal with people. I must say that given the multitude of freaked out old folks and absolute panic about getting on their trains, the staff was patient and seemed to keep their sense of humor.
Boarded the Zephyr, W/B, about 30 minutes late. Was please to see the same sleeping car attendents that we had on the way out. Both were 30+ year men (Bob Heath and Dave Jeull) and worked their butts off the whole trip. There were many old folks with various disabilities requiring extra care and attention. These guys were terrific!
Left Denver about 1 1/2 hours behind schedule. Sitting in the dining car for lunch, when suddenly the train horn blew and we came to a sudden, jerky stop. Seems we hit a boulder that had just fallen on the track. Sat on the track for about 4 hours while the boulder was removed from the train and part of the snow plow that had been damaged was cut off the train. Our car attendants said this was a first for them. We had a couple on the train, the lady of which was on oxygen. The delay caused her husband to freak, because he was afraid that she'd run out of oxygen, so many phone calls later, an oxygen company agreed to drop a tank at the station for a quick pick-up.
The Sierra Nevadas received their first snow fall as we traveled through...lovely sight from a warm train. Arrived in Sacramento about 6 hours and 10 minutes late. Thanks to all of you here at this Forum, it didn't surprise me a bit. Overall, it was a great experience, and I'd board another train in a heartbeat!
Like a rolling stone...
(Those aren't the real words to the song)
Dave
[This message has been edited by dnsommer (edited 11-01-2003).]
quote:
Originally posted by ladylawyer:
We had a couple on the train, the lady of which was on oxygen. The delay caused her husband to freak, because he was afraid that she'd run out of oxygen, so many phone calls later, an oxygen company agreed to drop a tank at the station for a quick pick-up.
That's really odd. Amtrak has -very- specific rules about passengers travelling on a train with oxygen. They -must- carry enough oxygen with them to last -double- the time the train ride lasts. The couple does not appear to have listened to that recommendation/rule. I bet that won't happen again though. 
Glad to hear you enjoyed your trip.
Thanks for sharing. Cost of train trip: $1,057*
Cost of meals: Included.
Presentation of Dave's poetry: Priceless.
*I made that up.
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Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth.
-Mr. Toy
[This message has been edited by Mr. Toy (edited 11-02-2003).]
Who's climbing high up over the Sierra?
Grinding her brakes as she eases downgrade?
Who's picking up a gambler in Reno?
Everyone knows it's Zephyr!
Wish I was a headlight on a westbound train... I'd shine my light through the cool Colorado rain...
David
Initial Arrival: 11:24P, Eleven minutes EARLY
Final departure: 11:54:56P, and your conductor let me call it.
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F40PH #757099-8
March 29, 1976-August 17, 2001
Requisecat in pacis
P42DC #53063
Around 2.5 million miles to go