It's been awhile since the last blog, and there are lots of excuses for not writing, but none worth writing about.
A visit to San Francisco was revealing and fascinating. The city by the bay has always been a favorite place to visit. The natural beauty of the surroundings, the bay, the Golden Gate bridge, and the surrounding hillsides full of tall mature trees. In stark contrast to Southern California the green vs brown factor is big. The vibe of the city is still very alive,and as always a little dark. A mid afternoon meeting at the cafe in Union Square, outdoor tables, sunshine with a crisp breeze reminded me at once of experiences in New York and Paris. A bit of nature surrounded by the bustle of the city. My meeting with a CEO of an large corporation was pleasant and productive. It was also interrupted by a well dressed young man, with big sunglasses, and an even bigger arrogance who, in the fenced restaurant area, began smoking with the smoke coming directly into our faces. The no smoking sign on the fence was right in front of him. My guest spoke up first, addressing the man directly. The man refused to acknowledge the request to stop smoking and lit up another. The request to stop became a demand, finally answered by a taunt of "mind your own business." A few more words from the CEO and the smoker got more belligerant. He stood up, clearly angry. We both stood up, unsure of what may come next, pointing out the no smoking sign and the San Francisco law, which is very intolerant of smokers in public places. He finally backed down, walked away cursing at us, and we resumed our meeting, shaking our heads in disbelief at what had almost happened.
The sunshine, otherwise pleasant atmosphere and good company prevailed to make it a great afternoon, but there was also a reminder that some negative, angry people and potentially violent people lurk amongst us. Walking back to the hotel, my situational awareness was higher, and it was still a beautiful day in an amazing city.

Santa Fe 3751, is the last steam locomotive to run in regular service on the Sante fe Railroad, on this same line in 1953. May 1 and 2nd the old steam engine fired up and pulled an 11 car train filled with railrad enthusiasts from LA to San Diego and back. The trip is sponsored by the Central Coast Railway Club, the Pacific Locomotive Association and the San Bernardino Railroad Historical Society which maintains and operates #3751. All three groups are non-profit organizations with all work done by volunteers. The San Diego Steam Special is run as an Amtrak train, on the regular main line between the two cities. The work to make a trip like this happen is enormous. All the vintage cars and the engine must meet stringent safety requirements. The insurance alone is a major cost obstacle. In the picture, right behind #3751 is an Amtrak diesel. It's there for several reasons. One is a backup in case the steam engine has a mechanical. Second, it provide the power needed for the eleven vintage passenfer cars, and finally, it can help with addition tracktion power if needed on startup or on any of the steeper grades.

Train enthusiasts young and old came from all over for the train to pass, and when it did, it was "high balling" going as fast as the Amtrack Surfliner when it went by our location. It's such a rare sight to see a big old engine in all it's steam glory.

Cudos to all the volunteers and the Amtrack people who made this happen.

The photos were taken by Karen Wolfer. We ere positioned by the La Costa Avenue (Carlsbad CA) overpass along the coast. I was taking video which we'll link later. If you google Santa Fe 3751 there are some additional pictures and links to various videos.