As far as the State Police presence goes, this was something that SRI and the Trainfestival committee felt needed to be addressed, and VERY early on. As was indicated, this process was first instituted on our joint trips to Grayling with Bluewater NRHS in 2005 due to the large amount of pacing opportunities and the "rare mileage aspects" of the trip. We used the same approach on the same trip in 2007. Both times, we coordinated with Bluewater NRHS's Bob Thatcher, who did a SUPERB job of coordinating local and state authorities.

As also was indicated, we took a large amount of flack for railfans over this, namely because of the mentioned "overzealous" officer comments. I rode both trips, and yes, the first year was a bit of a "break-in" period, both for the officers and us. Fact is though, driving with your knee while filming out of your sun roof, or opening your minivan door at 40 mph while your backseat passenger holds on to nothing but his camera is not being harassed --- its being unsafe, and could ruin everyone's ability to have an enjoyable experience (dropping out of a side door at 40 mph can ruin anyone's day).

As noted, we have not had to do this nearly as much on GLC/ MDOT's Cadillac Sub, but given the locos coming this trip, we are. Mr. Thatcher has graciously agreed to by Trainfestival's coordinator with local/ state gendarmes, most of which now have this down to a science, having done it with us several times. In addition, we have state troopers on our train as well, who graciously give of their time to make for safer experiences, and keep in contact with their fellow officers in the squad cars.

In short ---- we are trying to give people a safe, fun experience; and that means being prepared for those who are not willing to do so. Sadly, with the fact this may be the one and only time engines such as #4449 are here, some of our fellow railfans may choose to set aside their brains for a good shot. I'd like to think not, but reality says otherwise.

Hope to see everyone here in Owosso for a safe, enjoyable event.

Sincerely,

T.J. Gaffney
Director
SRI

Thanks for clarifying TJ. Again, I have no problem with this set up, but hopefully there won't be an officer that won't go too nuts just because I'm taking video from my car (again, I hope to do that while NOT driving, as I'd have a designated wheelman)

On the subject of questions, I was wondering if there would be any more diesels present at the event (aside from the GLC, Amtrak, and the Southern FP7 from NCTM)? Perhaps a Class One would chip in an engine for display?

Mike -

As of now, alas, no more diesels, however offers have been made to the class ones serving our general area, as well as a couple of the other shortlines. As always, if anything changes, those on the email list/ blog/ website would know first of any changes.

As you well understand, given the interest and rumors that often fly (and have already flown) and the need to continue to operate in a business-like fashion, we cannot and will not speculate on things either out of our control our not completely known and solidified at this time.

To cut the corporate speak: In short --- stay tuned, and if changes arise, we'll let ya know.

TJ