Allentown (PA) Columnist Feels What Many of Us Feel

Chuck,

  Thanks for finding it and sharing it. Happy New Year to you and your family.

Tom

Great story ! Thanks for posting.

Nice!

Interesting, because former reporter Dick Shearer of the "Lansdale reporter" (Lansdale is south of Allentown) did a column on the same topic, his Christmas remembrance with his Lionel 2023 some years ago.  Mr. Shearer is now President of the Lansdale Historical Society and in March of this year will retire. I contacted Mr. Shearer for a copy of his column and he advised he did not have one. I do not recollect what year it was, but it was at least ten years ago. If I knew the time frame, I could contact the Reporter and try to get a copy that way. It was well-written, with the 2023 as the centerpiece. Mark

Great piece!

Thank you for sharing, Peter

Great piece.

"...He bought the train for my mother as a Christmas present when she was 2. ..."  I always chuckle when I see that kind of thing.  A sign of different times - so nice that we don't need to use that excuse anymore.

Wonderful, thanks for posting this. 

I heard from the columnist today who is thrilled at the positive comments he has received from the story, and from people on the forum and FB. It really struck a chord.

I enjoyed that story as well.  It was one of the most read stories on the newspaper website.  Those early Alcos are absolute tanks!.  They are the primary "loaner" engines used at the ATMA train meet train races!  A little lube and they run forever. 

My brother mentioned that he'd like to write to the author and offer to repair the loco if it needs it.  We both did repairs at the train show on 11th street in Allentown for many years.

Nice article.  Pretty much the way I got started.

Thanks Dad.

Good stuff.

Pat