Actually, it is MCRM that hasn't run steam since February of 2000. As the mission statement states, the museum runs (or used to run) a demonstration steam train. These are the points I have been trying to make with starting this topic. Since I am an historian and not a train operator, I do not see a distinction between trainmen, brakemen, engineers, and conductors. Sorry.

Mr. Long, while I appreciate you're belief that you know what I'm thinking, please allow me the conceit of thinking I may be able to explain myself. The steel buildings I refer to are not only the boxcars but the Car Shop, Coach Shed and Engine House.

I still stand by my statement that I never saw a check with your name on it. Yes, a proposal was made but with a nebulous group of pledges made to you & not the museum in any verifiable manner. There was no account, escrow or designated fund to prove the money existed. Pledges are easy to talk about and a prudent management has to be skeptical.

I do sincerely apologize to the moderators if I have raised their stomach acid levels. It is always difficult to remain focused on empassioned exchanges. I will try to be more mindful in the future. mldeets

The contribution of funds is the very last step before construction and follows detailed plans and competitive bidding. This way donors know exactly to what they are giving their money. I do not contribute to or write a check to an organization that does not follow through with its plans or plays game to block initiatives. I wrote a check in 2005 for $200 to help support the rebuilding of the freight house platform. Nothing has happened and I do not know where my money has gone. Please read my contribution titled "MidContinent Blogs #2 - Cornerstones for Trust".