NEW NEWS 2011

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SEPTEMBER 17, 2011

ANNUAL SIGNAL TRAINING FOR 2011 WAS GREAT!

Then fifth Annual Signal Training was held this morning in the Stanford Gallery.  Nineteen crew members from four volunteer railroads attended.  One crew member from the Amador Central Railroad (AMCRR), one crew member from the El Dorado Western Railway (EDWRY), six crew members from the Placerville and Sacramento Valley Railroad (PSVRR) (one of which is also a SSRR crew member) and eleven crew members from the Sacramento Southern Railroad (SSRR) were in attendance.  Signal Fuel (You know what this is don't you?) and coffee was provided for the trainees.  Signal Trainer Paul started the action by asking everyone to introduce themselves and then asked members from the visiting roads to provide some additional information about their roads, which they did.  Anyone speaking about their Road or presenting Training Modules received a 2011 Annual Training Commemorative lapel Pin.  To see a photo of one click HERE.  The training then began with the following subjects being covered:

AC/DC Type C Track Circuits - How They Work - Finally Explained  -  Signal Engineer Dale
What is a Diode?  -  Signal Associate Eric
Shunts and Their Use on the Railroad  -  Senior Signal Worker Bill
SSRR Hours of Service Law  -  Signal Maintainer Dave
Railroad Relays - The Backbone of "How We Do What We Do"  -  Signal Engineer (PSVRR) and Student Signal Maintainer (SSRR) Bob
Motion Sensors and Grade Crossing Predictors  -  Signal Maintainer Al
Where DOES the Red Flag Go?  -  Signal Engineer Dale
Problem Solving/Troubleshooting - Signal Trainer Paul

After the training sessions, about 12:45 PM, most participants relocated to Miller Park, along the SSRR Main Line, and participated in a Weenie Grill.  The SSRR MOW Crew met the Signal Crews at the park and also devoured Weenies and watched the trains roll on by.  Recreational Director and Head Weenie Griller, Al, did the honors of grilling the Hot links and Weenies.  Everyone ate, talked about railroads and signals, took some group photos and watched trains.  A good time was had by all.  A Big Thank You to Signal Trainer Paul for making this years Annual Training a big success and another big Thank You to our Great Friends at the AMCRR, EDWRY and the PSVRR for helping make this a super event.  Mark your 2012 Calendars Now!  The next Annual Training is scheduled for September 15, 2012.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2011

SIGNAL SHOP’S FIRST “OFFICIAL” PROJECT!

As some of you may already know, one of the Signal Shop Crew’s first projects is to restore two Griswald Gate Mechanisms that are planned to be installed at Placerville and Sacramento Railroad’s White Rock Road crossing.  The mechanisms need to be cleaned, inspected, then tested before installation.  We have a pick-up date of Tuesday, September 20^th!  Once loaded up they will be brought to our Shops to begin the work.  Joe, our Signal Shop Supervisor would like to invite any and all interested Crew members to join in the excitement and fun of this new project!  Joe has reserved the “5 Pack” MOW truck for the move, but if more folks are interested, arrangements can be made for carpooling.  If interested, please email Joe at signalshop1@ssrrsignal.com ASAP!

SEPTEMBER 13, 2011

SEPTEMBER INSPECTIONS STARTED - PARTIAL FIZZLE....

A Signal Department Crew consisting of Paul (EIC), Dave, Jim, Joe and Dale (Observing) completed the Monthly Inspection at Capitol Mall and attempted to complete the Monthly Inspection at Sutterville Road today.  Capitol Mall passed, but Sutterville Road certainly did not.  At Sutterville Road the crew observed all the light fixture pairs at the West Bound (WB) Gate were not flashing.  All the flashing light fixtures at the East Bound (EB) Gate were working.  The process of trouble shooting began...  Everyone was excited; "Oh Boy! We get to fix a problem!"  The first of note was that all the light fixtures on the WB Gate are controlled by flashing relay AFR and all the flashing lights on the EB Gate are controlled by flashing relay FR.  It was then noted that relay FR was working and AFR was not.  Further investigation found that flashing relay AFR had no voltage to it from relay GPR.  Relay GPR was found to be working, but no current would flow through contact number 6 which controls flashing relay AFR.  Contact  number 6 was working.  They could see it through the glass and it was making contact.  This was a paradox.  The contact closed but no current would flow through it....!  Then, by squinting and looking way inside the relay Paul noticed a small wire laying on the glass bottom near contact number 6.  Yes.  It was the flexible feed wire to the Heel Contact (Called the Heel Ribbon).  It had become detached and thus no current could flow even though the contact was closed.  Problem solved.  The system was placed out of service, the normal mode for Sutterville Road, and the crew went on to South Land Park Drive.  At South Land Park Drive additional ivy was removed from the EB Gate mast and we all got to say hello to the "Flower Lady" that has adorned the area with beautiful flowers (More on that soon!).  Good Job Crew - Real Problem Solvers!!

SEPTEMBER 12, 2011

NCRY SIGNALEROS ARE IN THE CLUB CAR

There are a couple of great articles in the Pacific Locomotive Association publication, which is published monthly, titled "The Club Car". In the September 2011 issue, on Page 3, are two articles and three photos of recent activities of our Signalero Friends to the south in the Niles Canyon.

SEPTEMBER 10, 2011

ANNUAL TRAINING IS ONLY A WEEK AWAY!

SEPTEMBER 8, 2011

SEPTEMBER CREW MEMBERS RIDING HIGH FOR MOW WEED TEAM!

The Signal Maintainer Dave, Signal Shop Supervisor Joe and Student Signal Maintainer Randy were riding high in the MOW man lift today as they help MOW Chief Weed Killer, Mikey, trim trees along Oleander Alley (MP 01.40 to MP 01.59).  When the Signal Engineer happened by they were all having fun.  A little warm but having fun.  MOW Crew members Heather and Pat were also on the scene making trees smaller.  Good Job Weed Crew!!

THE UP HAZMAT TRAINING TRAIN IS HERE TRAINING TRAINEES IN THE TRAIN

What we have been calling the UP HazMat Train has been here since last Thursday.  It's real name is the "Fire Fighters Education and Training Foundation Safety Train".  To find out more about it click HERE.  The train is being pulled by one of the UP "Heritage Locomotives" painted in SP Daylight colors and looks great.  From last Thursday evening it was located on the Clunie Siding and training took place there.  On Wednesday it was relocated to the Main Line in Old Town where training has continued.  It is scheduled to leave Old Town tomorrow afternoon.

SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

FIRST INSPECTIONS FOR SEPTEMBER ONLY A WEEK AWAY

Check your calendar Signal Crew.  The Signal Scheduler has scheduled Monthly Inspections on Tuesday, September 13th and Sunday, September 18th.  If you are scheduled for the 13th you will be contacted by EIC Paul with Call Time and if scheduled for the 18th you will be contacted by EIC Dave.  Thanks for all the Hard Work Signal Crews!!!!

SEPTEMBER 3, 2011

LAST NORMAL EXCURSION TRAIN WILL BE SEPTEMBER 25TH

The last regularly scheduled Excursion Train this year will be Train #13/14 on September 25th.  If you have not got your "Rides" in this year be sure to get to the Station before 5:00 PM on September 25th.  And, of course, as we ride along we remind ourselves without the Track Programs Department (MOW and Signals) we would not be riding anywhere.  Way to Go MOW Crew and Signal Crew!

SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SIGNAL SHOP UPDATE!!

Signal Shop Supervisor, Joe, has his hands full, but as we announced yesterday, via email, he now has help.  The first Signal Shop Worker, Karl, is on board and will be working with Joe to set up the Shop.  Besides the activities that are required just to set up the Signal Shop Program, Safety, Inventory, Organizing, etc., they already have two restoration projects to get started on.  The first is to restore a Wabco Gate Mechanism that was given to us by the Niles Canyon Signal Department.  It will be placed in inventory, when ready, to be a spare in case we have a failure with any of the mechanisms at Broadway or Front Street.  The second project is in partnership with the Placerville and Sacramento Valley Railroad.  They have two Griswald Gate Mechanisms that are planned to be installed at their White Rock Road crossing.  The mechanisms need to be cleaned and then inspected and tested.  Then, whatever repairs found necessary will be made.  This work will be shared by both railroads.  Signal Associate Dan has been keeping in contact with the PSVRR crew and he and the Signal Engineer came up with this plan.  The PSVRR will benefit by having working mechanisms and our Signal Shop crew will develop some skills and experience working on Griswald Mechanisms.  This is a Win Win for both Signal Crews.  Want to help out?  Contact Joe by email - signalshop1@ssrrsignal.com.

SEPTEMBER 1, 2011

"SPOOKOMOTIVE" TRAIN COMING - HELP NEEDED TO DECORATE

The Annual SSRR Halloween Train, the "Spookomotive", is scheduled again this year and the Signal Department has again been asked to help decorate the Locomotive.  It has been decorated the last several years by the Signal Engineer, the Signal Trainer and who ever else can help.  This year the Signal Trainer will be on Layoff and we are going to need some additional help to get it done.  The decorating is scheduled for Wednesday, October 12th from 10:00 AM till done, usually about 2 hours.  So get into the Halloween "spirit", and if you can help out please contact the Signal Engineer.

AUGUST 29, 2011

RADIO WORK (YES WE DO TALK WITHOUT WIRES!)

A few projects have been underway recently.

1. SSRR 2008 was given a new (donated) Motorola CDM1250 mobile radio with high-noise environment external speaker.

2. Maintenance of Way (MOW) has requested we rig up a mobile radio in their crew truck with an external public address (PA) horn so they can have radio communications using the full 25 watts of power of a mobile radio.  Norm, Assistant Manager of Railroad Operations, ‘found’ a PA horn; MOW’s mobile radios sitting on the shelf have been programmed for three channels (road, MOW, and repeater); now we have to put the goods together with an antenna.

3. WP 913 and SP 6051 locomotives are now slated for duty during Polar Express.  They currently have an ancient and honorable Motorola MICOR Railroad Radio.  Working with Senior Signal Worker,Bill, our plan is to remove the MICOR radios and replace with the CDM1250 (a modern synthesized VHF radio) (MICOR radio required crystal channel elements if you wanted to change frequencies); the MICOR radios will be kept in the museum archives.  The remote speaker will be adapted to the new radio; the old handset will not be connected, instead a separate remote microphone jack will be added that will utilize the microphone on coiled cord that comes with the radio.  Power to the radio will be delivered through a DC-to-DC converter that will take the locomotive battery plant’s 72 VDC and output a stable 12 VDC.

4. Re-programming of radios, adding the repeater channel, has been going on for a month or so.  Most of the 2-channel radios in the crew center have had a white band added to the antenna that is the indicator those radios do NOT have the 3rd repeater channel added.  Look for a new circular soon regarding the use of the 3 channels.

5. During the lull between Halloween and Thanksgiving we will be using our portable radio battery analyzer to go through all the portables in the crew center.  The analyzer was donated by a radio service shop in Blackfoot, ID in 2010 and has helped us identify and replace weak batteries.  The objective is to have all portables at optimum performance for Polar Express.

AUGUST 27, 2011

ANNUAL TRAINING DAY ONLY THREE WEEKS AWAY!

Be sure your calendar is marked for September 17th as Annual Signal Training Day.  The fun begins at 9:00 AM in the Stanford Gallery.  The Signal Engineer is attempting to set up a WeeKnee Roast for "Beans" that day courtesy of the Signal Engineer.  More information to follow............. After the Signal Trainer, Paul, returns from Layoff.

AUGUST 26, 2011

ORIGINAL SP STANDARDS DRAWING COLLECTION LOANED TO SIGNAL DEPARTMENT

UP Signal Electronics Engineer, Jim, who the Signal Engineer visited with recently (See New News July 29, 2011) has loaned the Signal Department an old SP Standard Signals Drawings set.  There are about 500 drawings each roughly 8.5" by 13.5".  They need to be scanned to PDF files and then returned to Jim.  These drawings may be very valuable to us in the future as we restore and refurbish old signal equipment.  Anyone with a good, self feeding PDF scanner that would like to take on the project please contact the Signal Engineer.

AUGUST 25, 2011

THE SIGNAL SHOP ON THE BRINK OF GROWING!

Acting Signal Shop Supervisor, Joe, has informed the Signal Engineer that he has received requests recently for Signal Shop Worker Applications from two highly qualified CSRM Docent/Volunteers!  Remember, last December, when a very old Semaphore was donated  to the Signal Department (See New News December 6, 2010 in the Archives) and subsequently reserved by the CSRM curator as an antique?  We didn't get to refurbish or restore it, but Student Signal Maintainer Joe did step up and volunteer to develop a Signal Shop Department which would eventually have as one responsibility the refurbishment and restoration of old signal equipment (See New News January 3, 2011).  Joe has been developing plans for the shop as well as recruiting the last several months and those plans are just starting to be set in motion.  Keep your eye on "ol' Joe" and his new crew.  This appears to be the beginning of some fun times and just another one of the many "Changes" happening in the Signal Project organization this year!

AUGUST 24, 2011

SEPTEMBER INSPECTION ASSIGNMENTS

The Signal Scheduler, Jim, has announced the inspection assignments for September:

September 13th (Tuesday) - Capitol Mall and Sutterville Road - EIC Signal Maintainer Paul with Signal Maintainers Dave and Jim and Student Signal Maintainer Joe.

September 18th (Sunday) - Q and R Streets, Broadway and Front Street - EIC Signal Maintainer Dave with Signal Maintainer Paul, Senior Signal Worker Bill and Student Signal Maintainers Marc and Joe.

Make them Safe Days Signal Crews!!

AUGUST 23, 2011

THE SIGNAL WEBMASTER IS AT THE KEYS

Newly appointed Signal Webmaster, Raven, is stepping into her role on the Signal Crew Team.  Initially, she will be sharing update duties with the Signal Engineer while learning the procedures and flow before taking the role single-handedly.  Please check your email for an announcement on how you can participate in keeping our Site up to date and fun to be a part of!  To contact Raven, please click here.

AUGUST 19, 2011

ANOTHER "CHANGE" IS ALMOST READY

At the request of the Signal Engineer, Signal Accounting and Assets Clerk, Linda, has developed a new Purchase Requisition Form for use by the Signal Organization.  The form is planned to be used "on line" instead of hard copy and will be available to all Signal Organization crew members.  Linda is currently developing two "One Page Signal Procedures" (OPSP) which can be used to guide the use of the requisition.  The first OPSP is titled "Filling Out Signal Requisition Forms".  The second OPSP is titled "How to Process a Signal Requisition".  So..  Get ready fellow crew members another change in how we conduct our business is coming our way which will help the organization operate more efficiently.  Thank You Linda!!!

AUGUST 18, 2011

AUGUST MONTHLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED TODAY

Two Signal Crews completed the Monthly Inspections today.  All crew members met at the Signal Shop, loaded the trucks and then headed to the Crew Center for a Briefing with the Manager of Railroad Operations, Dick.  The first crew with Al as EIC and Marc implemented the inspection at Capitol Mall.  No problems there and the system passed inspection.  The second crew with Paul as EIC and (Newly promoted to Senior Signal Worker) Bill implemented the inspection at Sutterville Road.  The system passed inspection even though eighteen bond wires are still missing on the North Approach (See New News June 7, 2011).  The second crew was also given a special assignment by the Signal Engineer to implement.  They removed a small amount of the ivy vegetation that is growing around the East Bound Mast at South Land Park Drive.  All the trimmings were brought back to the Signal shop and disposed of.  Signal Associate Dan is working on a special assignment assessing the possibility of resurrecting the south Land Park Drive system and we are going to need access to that mast's foundation.  Thanks Crews!  Good Work!!

AUGUST 16, 2011

SIGNAL ENGINEER POSTS BRIEFING 2011-005

The Signal Engineer has posted a new Signal Department Briefing, titled "Growing Pains - The Signal Organization Has Them.....", on the signal Server.  The Signal Department was started in 1995.  There were three positions: Signal Engineer, Signal Maintainer and Student Signal Maintainer.  By the year 2000 there were four crew members.  In 2007, when there was one Signal Engineer, Five Signal Maintainers and two Student Signal Maintainers the position of Signal Associate was added.  That is when Signal Associate Eric joined the crew.  Now in 2011 there is currently one Signal Engineer (Dale), four Signal Maintainers Al, Paul [1], Dave, Jim), five Student Signal Maintainers (Randy, Joe, Bill, Marc, Bob), three Signal Associates (Eric, Dan, Steve), one Signal CAD Drafter (Paul [2]), one Signal Accounting and Assets Clerk (Linda) and one Signal Web Master (Raven).  Also some crew members wear two or more hard hats and are also a Signal Trainer (Paul [1]), the Acting Signal Shop Supervisor (Joe), and the Acting Communications Department Supervisor (What was called the Radio Section) (Al).  The Briefing reminds us that when we change things around like this we can get out of our comfort zone and not like it.  It also reminds us that changes can be good.  Down load the Briefing from the Signal Server and get ready for some "Change".

AUGUST 15, 2011

SIGNAL SCHEDULER ASKING FOR SEPTEMBER AVAILABILITY

Signal Maintainer Jim, who is assigned the Scheduler duties, has sent out his September availability request.  Please check your mailboxes and respond as soon as you can.  Thank You Jim and Thank You Crew!!!

AUGUST 14, 2011

PROMOTION!:  BILL BECOMES FIRST SENIOR SIGNAL WORKER!

Senior Signal Worker Bill

Senior Signal Worker Bill was promoted to this new Signal Project Organization position effective August 12th.
The new position, Senior Signal Worker, is available to Student Signal Maintainers and Signal Workers
who meet the requirements and criteria as described in the Position Description and is a promotion from
either of these positions.  A Senior Signal Worker is assigned tasks similar to those assigned to Signal Maintainers.
Senior Signal Workers, however, are not required to be available for Callouts and are not assigned to act as
Employee In Charge.  Senior Signal Workers are responsible for their assigned tasks the same as Signal Maintainers
and may be a member of a crew working on the right of way.  Bill more than meets the requirements and criteria
to be Senior Signal Worker and will continue to make significant contributions to the Signal Organization.

!!!!CONGRATULATIONS BILL!!!!

AUGUST MONTHLY INSPECTIONS STARTED TODAY

A Signal Crew consisting of EIC Signal Maintainer Jim, Signal Maintainer Dave and Student Signal Maintainers Joe and Marc completed Monthly Inspections of Q Street, R Street, Broadway and Front Street today.  The Signal Engineer lurked around just to be nosey and take a few photos.  All Systems passed inspections and no repairs had to be made.  Some odd looking graffiti at R Street was removed.  As you can see from the photos at the far left and the one at the right significant time was spent at the Crew Center as Train Orders were developed and redeveloped by Crew Dispatcher Myrletta as conditions beyond her control were changing rapidly this morning.  The Signal Crew joined the Operations Crew Briefing and then proceeded to the inspection work.  Next Monthly Inspections are scheduled for Thursday, August 18th.  The EIC is Paul with Al, Bill and Marc (See the Calendar).

AUGUST 10, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

The Signal Department Advisory Committee met today in the Big Four Conference Room.  Here is a list of some of the discussion items:

Student Signal Maintainer Training Program
Annual Training scheduled for September 17th.
First Aid Kits and Defibulators
Signal Organization Roster and Employee Numbers
New Purchasing Requisition
Switch to Electronic Inspection Reports
Vision of the Signal Communications Department (The Radio Section on steroids)
Development of the Signal Shop
Recruiting
Signal Organization Logo
Inspection Scheduling
Part 214 - Red Flag Placement

As can be seen the Committee discusses quite a range of topics all of which are of importance to the future of the Signal Project Organization.  If you have any ideas or comments on the above or something else you think should be on the Signal Project Organization topics list contact the Signal Engineer and let your thoughts be known.

JULY 29, 2011

THERE ARE PRIVATE SIGNAL EQUIPMENT COLLECTIONS IN ROSEVILLE!

Director of SSRR Railroad Operations Alan, CSRM Curator Kyle and SSRR Signal Engineer traveled to the UP Roseville Yard today to visit with UP Signal Electronic Engineer Jim to discuss CTC equipment.  A side trip led the four of them to two locations in Roseville, private residences, where collections of wayside signal equipment is preserved and on display.  If you have a few spare hours check these displays out.  They are located at the corner of Alta Vista Avenue and Encinal Avenue and at 560 Patton Drive.  The owner at 560 Patton Drive, Mike, was present and provided an extended tour into the rear of the property where even more equipment is on display.  The CSRM anticipates the creation of a display, similar to these private displays, at the new Railroad Technology Museum.  If you enjoy inspecting old signal equipment, you will enjoy taking a look at these displays.  Remember be courteous and stay off the lawn and out of the flowers!  Oh!  And bring your camera!!

JULY 27, 2011

THE JUNE MONTHLY ENGINEERS REPORT HAS BEEN POSTED

Signal Engineer Dale has posted the June Signal Engineer's Report on the Signal Server in the Folder titled "Monthly Engineers Reports - 2011".  It's Free to See!  Take a look and catch up on month old news.......................

JULY 23, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT ATTENDS A DOCENT JOB FAIR

Another Docent Job Fair was held at the Stanford Gallery today for the benefit of the current Docent Class and current Docents and Volunteers.  The Signal Department was well represented by Signal Maintainer and Acting Radio Section Supervisor Al, Student Signal Maintainer and Acting Signal Shop Supervisor Joe and Signal Engineer Dale.  Several applications were handed out for some for the Signal organization Entry Level Positions.  The Signal Organization is aggressively looking for Signal Shop Workers to help start up and set up the Signal Shop for future repair and restoration work. 

Far left photo: Al speaking with Docent Trainee
Next Photo: Dale and Joe with new Docents
Next Photo: Dale showing materials to new Docent Trainee
Next Photo: Joe, Al and Dale at the Signal Table

Photos by Jeff - Thank You Jeff!!

JULY 22, 2011

THE SCHEDULER HAS POSTED ASSIGNMENTS

Signal Scheduler, Jim, has posted the August inspection assignments:

August 14th (Sunday) - Q and R Streets, Broadway and Front Street - EIC Signal Maintainer Al with Signal Maintainers Dave and Jim and Student Signal Maintainers Mar and Joe.

August 18th (Thursday) - Capitol Mall and Sutterville Road - EIC Signal maintainer Paul with Signal Maintainer Al and Student Signal Maintainers Marc, Bill and Joe.

Be Safe Out There Everyone!!!!

JULY 17, 2011

SECOND JULY MONTHLY AND QUARTERLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED TODAY

Two Signal Crews completed the Monthly and Quarterly Inspections today at Broadway, Front Street and Sutterville Road.  Signal Maintainers Al [EIC] and Jim moved over to Sutterville Road while the other Signal Crew with Signal Maintainers Paul [EIC] and Dave and Student Signal Maintainers Marc and Bill started at Broadway.  Because Scheduled Trains were in operation today the Crew at Broadway and Front Street used Exclusive Track Occupancy s the On-Track Safety method and communicated via radio with the Train Operations Crew.  When Al and Bill completed with the washing of light fixtures and the inspections at Sutterville Road they moved to Broadway and Front Street and washed the light fixtures there.  A real Team Effort!  No problems were reported at any of the systems.  Great job Crews!!

JULY 12, 2011

FIRST JULY MONTHLY AND QUARTERLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED TODAY

A Signal Crew consisting of Signal Maintainer Jim as EIC with Signal Maintainer Dave and Student Signal Maintainers Joe and Bill completed the Monthly and Quarterly Inspections at Capitol Mall, Q Street and R Street today.  The Motion Sensors at Q Street and R Street both had to be recalibrated before the systems would reset.  Hmmmm????  All systems passed inspections.  Good Work Crew!

JULY 7, 2011

THE NMRA PRESENTATION AND SIGNAL DEMONSTRATION TOUR IS OVER..........

The Signal Engineer would like to thank everyone that helped out with the presentation and Demonstration Tour provided to NMRA convention visitors.  Based on the first feed back comments everything went well.  Here are some photos taken by Jeff the Photographer:

All Photos taken and provide by Jeff the Photographer  -  Thanks Jeff!!!!!

The Day started with NMRA visitors arriving at the CSRM a little after 8:00 AM.  They were escorted to the CSRM West Theater and provide a brief overview of the days activities.  Signal Maintainer Dave started the presentation on Grade Crossing Signal Systems slanted toward Grade crossing Modeling early and we got started.  Signal Engineer Dale provided a short and dry presentation on FRA Grade Crossing Rules and Regulations.  Signal Trainer Paul next provided a very informative module on the history of Grade Crossings and then Dave provided the meat and potatoes of the presentation on Grade Crossing prototypes and Grade Crossing Modeling.  When the presentation was complete Paul introduced the Lookouts: Assistant Manager of Railroad Operations Norm, MOW Worker & Car Attendant Heather and Brakeman Virginia, and the Herders: Student Signal Maintainer Marc, MOW Weed Abatement Supervisor Mike (The Weed Killer) and Student Signal Maintainer Bill.  Paul explained how the formation of groups and sub groups would be handled and assigned all the NMRA visitors to a Group.  Instructions were provided so that everyone would get to observe all the demonstrations. 

The Theater attendees then made their way to the train boarding area behind the Museum.  The Operations Department (17 crew members helped man and ready the train) had the train ready and the visitors boarded.  First stop: The Capitol Mall Grade Crossing.  Here Group "A" got off to observe the demonstrations.  At R Street, the next stop, Group "B" visitors got off for their demonstrations and then the train with Group "C" still aboard moved to Broadway Grade Crossing.  At each Grade Crossing were three demonstrations:

At Capitol Mall the Instrument Cabinet was described by Signal Trainer Paul.  A demonstration of Coded Track Circuit Relays was presented by Niles Canyon Signal Department Signal Engineer, Curt and a Gong demonstration was presented by Niles Canyon Signal Maintainers Dave and James.

At R Street the instrument Cabinet was described by Signal Engineer Dale.  A flashing Light demonstration was presented by Signal Associate Steve assisted by CSRM Docent, Dick (Thank You Dick!!) and a Signal Relay demonstration was presented by Student Signal Maintainer Bob.

At Broadway the instrument Cabinet was described by Signal Maintainer Al.  A demonstration on Gate Mechanisms was presented by Signal Maintainer Jim and a Bond Wire demonstration was presented by Student Signal Maintainer Randy.

Signal Shop Supervisor, Joe, stood by in case of a problem and there was only one.  The power supply (120 VAC to 12 VDC) stopped working on the Flashing Light demonstration at R Street.  Joe quickly parked a State Parks truck near the Flashing Light equipment and using a long set of battery jumper cables that he "just happened to have" saved the day.  Way to go Joe!!!

The Operations Crew moved the Groups from crossing to crossing with the aid of Signal Maintainer Dave, Signal Associate Dan and Signal CAD Drafter Paul.  Good Job Coordinators!!

There were at lot of behind the scenes folks in the Operations Department, The CSRM and the CSRMF that helped make this happen.  Big Thank You to all of you!!!

And a Great Big Thank You to Everyone involved!!!  All Volunteers involved received or will receive a commemorative lapel pin ["NCRY-SSRR Signal - NMRA DEMO TOUR 2011"].  See the first photo at the top left............

JULY 6, 2011

TRUCKS ARE LOADED AND WE ARE READY TO DO IT!

Signal Shop Supervisor Joe and a team of several volunteers, Jim, Randy, Al, Mike, Heather and Dale assembled all the equipment and supplies needed tomorrow for the NMRA Signal Tour Demonstrations and loaded them into two large trucks.  Everything is ready to go.  Those of you meeting at the Signal Shop the Call Timem is 7:30 AM.  Way to go Team!!!!

JUNE 29, 2011

NMRA PRESENTATION AND DEMO TOUR COMMITTEE MEETING TODAY...

NMRA Presentation and Demonstration Tour Coordinators Dave and Paul held a Committee Meeting this morning t the CSRM to bring everyone up to speed and up to date.  It appears that all the actors have their parts ready to go and are standing by.  In Attendance were Bill, Al, Bob, Paul (1), Jim, Randy, Steve, Dave, Dale and Jeff the Photographer.  Let us in Coach!!!!

JUNE 28, 2011

MAY MONTHLY ENGINEER'S REPORT POSTED

The Signal Engineer has posted the May 2011 Signal Engineer's Report on the Signal Server.  Check it out.  You might find something interesting or something you are not aware of.  Please keep in mind that the sooner the crew reports their off site time to the Signal Engineer each month the more timely the report becomes.  The Signal Engineer appreciates those early time reports!!!  Thanks....

JUNE 24, 2011

SSRR CREW VISITS THE EL DORADO WESTERN

EDWRy Project Director and
El Dorado Western Railway Foundation President
Keith

The Signal Engineer received a message from MOW Sandy asking me to contact Keith, the El Dorado Western Railway Project Director, and see if we could give him some "friendly advise' on placing two crossing warning system on their road, that have been out of service for several years, back in service.  The EDWRy is operating on part of the old SP Placerville Branch the same as the PSVRR (See New News November 30, 2010).  The Signal Engineer contacted Keith and made arrangements to meet him at their Forni Road crossing.  I then contacted Signal Associate Dan and Signal Shop Supervisor Joe and made arrangements to take a "Road Trip" with them today.  We arrived at Forni Road around 4:00 PM.  The Instrument Cabinet at Forni Road is intact and all equipment appears to be within it although only the back was unlocked.  Copper thieves have cut all the field wiring from within the cabinet, cutting the conductors at the conduit entrance point.  Both masts, gate mechanisms, flashing lights and gongs are missing, however, the foundations still exists with the conductors within the conduits cut at the exit point.  EDWRy believes they know where this equipment might be in storage.  The Forni crossing will be the most east crossing as the right of way stops at Missouri Flat Road.  The next of the four crossing being considered is Blanchard Road.  Blanchard is a Crossbucks only crossing.  Next, west was El Dorado Road where there was once a Wig-Wag.  We did not inspect El Dorado Road.  last of the four under consideration is Mother Load Drive.  This is a wide roadway with bus lanes on the shoulder.  It appears that the original protection was cantilevers with lights and gongs only; no gates.  At some time within the last 20 years or so these cantilevers were removed, although the masts were left in place, and new cantilevers and gates were installed.  Three of the flashing lights are missing (They are all in desperate need of attention) as well as one of the gate mechanisms.  Mother nature has also taken over on the east bound side and has surrounded the tops of the masts with tree limbs.  The big problem at Mother Load Drive is the lack of Utility Power.  It appears that SP brought power to the Instrument Cabinet by way of a private (SP) pole line.  The line has been removed and we could not find the connection point with the local utility company, PG&E.

We suggested that EDWRy start by locking up the cabinets so no more theft will take place, start to remove the excess vegetation and look for the missing equipment.  Once we can take a look into the locked sections of the cabinets we'll have a better idea of what equipment might be missing or no longer salvageable and what is in good enough shape to use. 

Sometime in the future the EDWRy, which does not yet have a Signal Department, will need some help in placing these crossings in service and certifying them.  If you are interested in helping out contact the Signal Engineer.  Further information about the EDWRy and the Foundation can be found by clicking HERE.

JUNE 23, 2011

MOW CREW MAKES WAY FOR THE HOOD CONTAINER

The MOW Department is planning to install a container for the storage of a motor car, spray rig and perhaps other on track MOW equipment at the end of a spur at Hood.  This will allow the Weed Crew and others motor car access to most of the right of way now not accessible due to the condemned trestle at about MP 10.5.  The container on the north end at Cliff's Marina is located at MP 10.0.  The new container will be located about 500 feet north of the camera location (see the photo of the track above looking north.  There is already a switch in place for the spur.  MOW will extend the spur from the switch far enough so that the container will not foul the main line track.  The crew today consisted for Manager of Track Programs, John, Master Weed Killer, Mikey, Weed Killer In Training, Heather, and for a short while the Signal Engineer.  The crew today was attempting to clear a path from the access road, which comes off of Corky Lane in Hood, to the switch on the main line.  Equipment trouble, again, plagued the crew as the wheel mounted weed eater and the large weed mower continued to not cooperate.  the small tractor was running well, however, we only have a bucket and a scraper for tools.  A tractor mower attachment or disc would have been helpful.  There is no firm date for installation of the container, however, it has been moved to SSRR property at the site.

JUNE 22, 2011

CREW PREPARES DEMOS FOR NMRA TOUR

A crew of dedicated Signal folks met in the heat in the Signal Shop today.  Crew members Al, Jim, Randy, Joe and Bill worked on and organized three of the six demonstrations to be presented on July 7th during the NMRA tour of three of the SSRR Grade Crossings.  The six demonstrations schedule are:  At Capitol Mall: Coded Track Relays and Gong operation (By Niles Canyon Signal Department), At Front Street: Relay Operation and Flashing Light Operation, and At Broadway: Gate Mechanism operation and Bond Wire installation.  The crew worked on the Gate Mechanism, Flashing Lights and Bond Wire demonstrations today.  Al reports everything is in the ready......  An eleemosynary job was done by all!!!

JUNE 21, 2011

WORK CREW SCHEDULED TO PREPARE DEMOS FOR NMRA TOUR

Signal Maintainer Al has sent an invitation to all interested crew members and others that all are invited to the Signal Shop tomorrow to work on the Demonstration equipment to be used for the NMRA Tour and Presentations on July 7th.  Call time is 8:30 AM.  We need a big team for this work.  Also, this will probably only be a morning shift as afternoon temperatures are predicted to be over 100 degrees.  Stay hydrated Everyone!!!

JUNE 20, 2011

THE NMRA PRESENTATION AND TOUR IS RAPIDLY APPROACHING!

The Signal Department Committee organizing the presentation and tour focusing on Grade Crossing Warning Systems modeling, co-chaired by Signal Maintainers Dave and Paul, met today.  Those Crew Members in attendance were Dave, Paul, Joe, Jim, Bob and Dale.  Dave has put the finishing touches on the PowerPoint Presentation that will be presented in the West Theater in the CSRM and projected it in the West Theater for the first time.  It has become a very professional looking presentation and will be well accepted by the NMRA attendees.  All in attendance gave an update on the status of their assignments and we seem to be on schedule.  We are still looking for crew members to help out on the day of the presentation and tour.  If you are interested contact Signal Maintainer Jim or the Signal Engineer.  You do not have to be a Signal Department member to help out.  Keep Up The Great Work Everyone!!

JUNE 19, 2011

Q STREET AND R STREET MONTHLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED

A Signal Crew comprised of Signal Maintainer, Dave, as EIC and Signal Maintainer Jim implemented the Monthly Inspections at Q Street and R Street today.  Scheduled trains were in operation so Exclusive Track Occupancy Working Limits were set up as the On-Track Safety and the EIC was required to communicate with the Engine Crew.  Both systems passed the Monthly Inspection.  Way To Go Crew!!

JUNE 15, 2011

SCHEDULER HAS REQUESTED AVAILABILITY FOR JULY INSPECTIONS

Signal Department Scheduler, Jim, has sent out the request for availability to the Signal Maintainers and Student Signal Maintainers in preparation for making assignments for the July Inspections.  Please respond to Jim as soon as possible.  Thanks Jim!

JUNE 11, 2011

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR SIGNAL MAINTAINER A. C. "CHUCK" ZAILER

There was a Memorial Service held by the family and friends of our Crew Member, Signal Maintainer Chuck Zailer, today at the Lincoln Hills Community Church in Lincoln, California.  Several SSRR Crew Members attended.  There was a significantly large gathering of family and friends in attendance.  For those that would like to remember Chuck with a Memorial Donation the family has asked that donations be made to: Lincoln Hills Community Church, 950 East Joiner Parkway, Lincoln, CA 95648; or, California State Railroad Museum Foundation, 111 "I" Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.  We will always miss Chuck...................

JUNE 10, 2011

MONTHLY INSPECTIONS - NOT ROUTINE AS USUAL TODAY

Two Signal Crews implemented Monthly Inspections at Capitol Mall, Broadway, Front Street and Sutterville Road today. The first crew with Paul, as EIC, and Jim were scheduled to do Capitol Mall and Sutterville Road.  The second crew with Al, as EIC, and Joe were scheduled to do Broadway and Front Street.  The Broadway and Front Street inspections went well.  No problems there and inspections passed.  Capitol Mall, however, was a different story.  When the crew lowered the gate arms they noticed that the Tip light on the East Bound Gate was flashing.  Then they noticed that all the gate lights on the EB Gate were flashing in unison.  The lights are LED and the fixtures are the type with cable connectors that when rotated change the three wire circuit so that the flashing lights and non-flashing light can be set up no matter how the cable is wired.  With this in mind the crew attempted to adjust the connectors to re-establish the correct flashing sequence (It being assumed that a connector had become loose).  Their efforts did not produce the desired results.  The Signal Engineer, who by this time was watching intently and providing some advice and encouragement, called the company that installed the lights and asked for some direction.  "Better than that", they said; "We'll be right over since we are in the neighborhood."   The company owner, Don, arrived and within a few minutes had twisted the connectors and had the lights flashing properly.  Why he was able to do it and we could not is a mystery.  Even Don could not explain, because the crew did the same maneuvers that he did.  By the time the Capitol Mall inspection was complete the second crew was finished with their inspections and had arrived at Capitol Mall to provide moral support.  The crew, minus Paul who had  other afternoon obligations, went to "Beans" and then proceeded to Sutterville Road where Dale took over as EIC and the crew attempted to implement the Monthly Inspection.  Al and Joe inspected the North Approach to see if any additional bond wires had been stolen (See June 7th below) and found an additional sixteen (16) missing.  As much of the Monthly Inspection that could be implemented was and the CSRM Ranger was notified of the additional loss.

JUNE 8, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT ASSISTS OPERATION DEPARTMENT TESTING LOCOMOTIVE HORNS

The Operations Department tested the horns on four of their locomotives today.  The testing was coordinated by Assistant Manager of Railroad Operations, Norm.  First he used a decibel meter and measured the idle noise of each locomotive from a ladder about 100 feet away from the locomotive.  Then, they moved the decibel meter to the right of way and measured the loudness of the horn by operating the horn for 10 second blasts.  Each locomotive horn was tested twelve times in this fashion.  Signal Crew consisting of Paul and Dale stood by in case the R or Q Street gongs conflicted.  Only the Q Street system was removed from service because locomotives were parked in the island circuit. 

JUNE 7, 2011

SUTTERVILLE ROAD CALLOUT!

The Signal Engineer received a callout call from the Director of Railroad Operations, Alan, at 8:55 AM this morning with the word that the gates were down at Sutterville Road.  Upon arriving at Sutterville Road the gates were clear but the flashing lights and the gongs were on.  Sacramento PD, CSRM Ranger, directing traffic, and Manager of Railroad Operations, Dick, were on site.   One look at the XR relay jumpers, that normally keep the system Out Of Service, and it was partially known what happened.  One jumper was on the incorrect terminal and thus not keeping the relay picked up.  When the jumper was place upon the correct terminal the lights went dark and the gongs fell silent.  The Sac PD officer then explained that he had walked the NA and found one missing bond wire and one more cut but still there.  It was surmised that a thief was attempting to take bond wires for the copper content.  Because the jumper was incorrectly installed the lights and gongs operated which probably scared away the thief.  The gates did not drop because we insert wooden blocks within the hold clear devices so that the gates cannot drop.   repairs will probably be scheduled during the next Monthly Inspection.  Does the word "Serendipity" come to mind......................

SAFETY BULLETIN 2011-001 ANNULLED - SAFETY BULLETIN 2001-002 ISSUED

On May 17th the Manager of Railroad Operations annulled Circular P and replaced it with Circular P1.  This is the Circular which explains the limits of cell phone use by MOW and Signal Crews on the right of way.  Signal Department SOP14.768.02 "Procedures for Use of Electronic Devices while Working on the Right Of Way" was revised to reflect the changes in Circular P1 and Bulletin 2011-002 was annulled an Bulletin 2011-002 issued to explain the revisions to SOP 14.768.02.  Safety Bulletin 2011-002 was sent to all Signal Organization members and is available on the Signal Server in the Folder titled "Signal Bulletins". 

JUNE 4, 2011

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR CHUCK ZAILER IS A WEEK FROM TODAY

Signal Maintainer Chuck Zailer

The Memorial service for Chuck Zailer will be held next Saturday, June 11th at 11:00 AM at the Lincoln Hills Community Church located at 950 East Joiner Parkway, Lincoln, California.  There will be a brief reception after the service.

JUNE 3, 2011

REVISED INSPECTION ASSIGNMENTS POSTED BY THE SCHEDULER

Our inspections scheduled for tomorrow were annulled due to the predicted rain, so Scheduler Jim has posted a new schedule for the June Monthly Inspections and here it is:

Friday, June 10th  - Monthly Inspections of Capitol Mall and Sutterville Road.
The Crew - Paul [EIC] and Jim.

Friday, June 10th - Monthly Inspections of Broadway and Front Street.
The Crew - Al [EIC] and Joe.

Sunday, June 19th - Monthly Inspection of Q Street and R Street.
The Crew - Dave [EIC], Jim and Joe.
Note - These Inspections will require On-Track Safety procedures while Trains In Operation.

Good Job Scheduler Jim!!  Thanks!!!

NMRA PRESENTATION COMMITTEE MET AGAIN TODAY

The NMRA Presentation and Train Ride Tour of SSRR Grade Crossings is getting closer fast.  The Committee coordinating the effort met again today with Coordinators Dave and Paul leading the pack.  Attending were, Dave, Paul, Al, Jim, Joe, Dale and MORRO Dick.  Dave and Paul are coordinating everything and developing the formal presentation.  Al is coordinating getting the in the field presentation hardware ready.  Jim is developing people resources as needed.  Joe is getting together all the stuff we need at the Grade Crossings for the presentations there and arranging transportation.  MORRO Dick is coordinating the Operations Department (this will involve a lot of Operations Personnel).  Dale is giving advice and watching with awe as the group progresses.  Groups now involved are:  SSRR Operations Department, SSRR Maintenance of Way Department, SSRR Signal Department and the NCRY (Niles Canyon Railway) Signal Department.  The National Model Railroad Association will be in Sacramento during the week of July 5th, for their Annual Convention, and on the 7th the Museum was asked to provide a presentation on Grade Crossing Warning Signal Systems with emphasis on modeling of them.  A formal presentation (more fun than formal) will be presented in one of the Museum theaters from about 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM.  Then, the group of NMRAers will board a SSRR Train and visit (Coordinated in three groups sub divided into three sub-groups each - Professor Paul developed!) three SSRR Grade Crossing systems.  At each crossing the NMRAers will be presented with a chance to inspect the Instrument Cabinets and other in the field presentations or demonstrations.  If you can spare your July 7th morning and can help out get in touch with Scheduler Jim or the Signal Engineer.

Q STREET AND R STREET EASEMENT DRAWING COMPLETED

Signal Maintainer Paul (Who coordinated the Signal Departments efforts in regards to the construction of the Q street and R Street Warning Systems constructed by the City of Sacramento) and Signal Engineer Dale completed the final measurements of the required additional easements at Q Street and R Street today.  The Signal Engineer than completed the extra easement drawing and forwarded it to CSRM Management for transmittal to the City.  If you would like to see the drawing it is in the Folders titled "Drawings of Q Street" and "Drawings of R Street" on the Signal Server.

JUNE 2, 2011

ANNUAL BBQ CANCELLED!!!

The Signal Engineer has made the sad decision to cancel the Annual Signal BBQ scheduled for this Saturday.  Yesterday www.weather.com was predicting a 60% chance of rain on Saturday and this morning 70%.  Because of the fact that we actually have been having rain when predicted the last few days the Signal Engineer gave the forecasters their due and went conservative............  Perhaps we will reschedule - But not during hot weather - Maybe in the Fall.  Sorry Everyone!

JUNE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS POSTPONED!!!

The Signal Scheduler, Signal Maintainer Jim, has announced postponement of the June Monthly Inspections scheduled for this Saturday due to rain.  Watch for requests for availability coming soon to your Inbox.  The Scheduler determined, same as the Signal Engineer, that the chance of rain was simply to high.  Thanks Jim.  We did NOT want to work in the hail again!

JUNE 1, 2011

LARGER UPS ADDED TO SIGNAL SERVER

The Signal Server (Windows Home Server) was off line this morning for about an hour while the UPS was replaced by a larger unit.  The Signal Engineer estimates that we now have about 30 minutes, in the event of a loss of utility power, before the UPS runs out of backup energy.  The previous UPS was about 8 minutes.  These home UPS machines general come with automatic shutdown software and cables for connecting a PC but this machine is a server and not compatible with the software.  We simply must keep in touch with the divine power of the SMUD!

MAY 30, 2011

THIS NEXT SATURDAY IS COMBINED INSPECTION AND BBQ DAY!!

The June Monthly Inspections AND The Annual Signal BBQ are scheduled for this Saturday, June 4th.  All RSVPs have not been received.  Let the Signal Engineer know if you will or will not be attending the BBQ!!  Thanks!!

MAY 29, 2011

THE SIGNAL ENGINEER'S MONTHLY REPORT FOR APRIL POSTED TODAY

The Signal Engineer has posted the April 2011 Signal Engineer's Report on the Signal Server in the Folder titled "Monthly Engineers Report - 2011".  Have a look.  See Part A to find out what inspections were completed, what got repaired and what didn't and when future inspections are due.  Review Part E if you are wondering what materials and services are on order or have arrived and Part F if you are wondering where we have been spending our volunteering time.  Please keep in mind that the sooner the crew reports their off site time to the Signal Engineer each month the more timely the report becomes.  The Signal Engineer appreciates those early time reports!!!  Thanks....

MAY 28, 2011

GOFLEX GONE - HELLO SIGNAL SERVER

In early May the Signal Engineer determined that since the Mirra Machine manufacturer was no longer supporting the Mirra Machine that it was simply a matter of time before it became unusable.  It did have a issue at that time with a difficult work-around so the Signal Engineer elected to replace it with a Seagate GoFlex Machine.  (See May 13th)  For two weeks he struggled with the user interface with the GoFlex but it did not get any easier and having been spoiled rotten by the Mirra Machine user interface decided to take another alternative.  The new alternative is Windows Home Server software which the Signal Engineer has been using for over a year now for back up of Signal Folders and Files.  The Windows Home Server software allows him to allow remote access to only select Folders within the server.  The sever has been set up.  During the set up process the GoFlex Machine was taken off line because it uses the same ports as the server.   If you try to get to a GoFlex "Share" you will not get there to get it.  The GoFlex Machine is shutdown.  Check your email inbox for a note which explains how to get to Folders on the server.  Please report any problems to the Signal Engineer.  Only one bummer so far:  Due to a license agreement with Microsoft the Windows Home Server software only allows two remote users into the server at the same time.  If two are in and you try you will get some kind of goofy messages or it simply will not let you in.  To learn more about the Windows Home Server software click: Windows Home Server

MAY 27, 2011

REVISIONS TO Q STREET AND R STREET CABINETS COMPLETED

A crew from Railway Signal Construction complete upgrade revisions to the Q Street and R Street Cabinets today under the watchful eye of Signal Crew Jim and Dale.  This work was necessary to replace temporary equipment installed last year when the cabinets were installed.  At that time the specified materials were not available.  The materials finally arrived in early May and the work was scheduled.  Test switches and boxes were installed on each cabinet as well as a back up exhaust fan and thermostat.  Other components changed out were non-vital relays and termination panels.  The cabinets now match the drawings.  That is a good thing!!  The Signal Engineer is Happy!  That is a Good Thing Too!!

MAY 25, 2011

JUNE INSPECTIONS SCHEDULED

The Signal Scheduler has posted the crews for the June Inspections.  All Inspections are scheduled for June 4th, the same day as the Annual BBQ.  Three Crews have been scheduled:

Crew #1:  Paul EIC, with Dave and Joe will inspect Capitol Mall, Q Street and R Street.
Crew #2:  Jim EIC, with Bill and unassigned as yet Lookout will inspect Broadway and Front Street.
Crew #3:  Al EIC, with Marc and Dale will inspect Sutterville Road.

Since there will be multiple work locations with multiple EICs, and since scheduled trains will be in operation, Crews #1 and #2 will use Approach Warning as On-Track Safety method.  This plan will minimize any confusion to the Operation Crew.  Please contact Jim if you are not on a Crew and have had Part 214 Training.  We are short by one Lookout.  See you on the 4th!

ANNUAL BBQ IS PLANNED FOR JUNE 4TH - BE THERE!!!

The Signal Engineer provides a BBQ annual for all Signal Organization Crew Members and Friends.  Mark you calendar if you have not already done so.  We'll get started somewhere along the Main Line in Miller Park as soon as we complete the Inspections.

MAY 24, 2011

SUTTERVILLE ROAD ANNUAL INSPECTION COMPLETED TODAY

Q Signal Crew consisting of Al acting as EIC, Jim, Bill, Dale and Don and Misha from Railway Signal Construction completed the Annual Inspection at Sutterville Road today.  The first part was implemented on May 21st.  The activities today amounted to cleaning and inspecting cantilever flashing lights, inspecting and lubing gongs and aligning all flashing light fixtures.  All systems passed inspection.  To celebrate the crew went up the street to Fords Burgers and cleaned out the Signal Engineer's pocket book much to his pleasure!!  Great Job Everyone!!!

MAY 23, 2011

A GREAT FRIEND IS GONE FROM US...................

Signal Maintainer Chuck Zailer passed away last night surrounded by his Family

Chuck joined the Signal Department in January 2005 and was Certified as a
SSRR Signal Maintainer on August 15, 2006.

Chuck was a SSRR Operations Department Brakeman.
He was promoted to Passenger Train Conductor October 22, 2009
and promoted to Freight Train Conductor February 22, 2010.

Chuck was a Good Friend, a Great Guy, a Professional Co-Worker and a Fun person to be around.
Chuck is already and will be sorely missed.  There is a Big Empty place in the Organization Now.

A Memorial Service is pending - Tentative date is Saturday, June 11th.

MAY 22, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION CHART POSTED - SIGNAL SHOP WORKERS WANTED!!

The Signal Engineer has developed a Signal Department Organization Chart.  It has been posted in "The Office".  Take a look.  We have grown over the years to sixteen crew members!  We are currently looking for Signal Shop Workers.  Click here to see our bulletin board notice.  Signal Shop Workers do not have to be Docent Graduates to apply only need to be CSRM Volunteers!  Tell your friends!  Help us get our Signal Shop organized and useful! 

MAY 21, 2011

THE SIGNAL DEPARTMENT HAS A NEW STUDENT SIGNAL MAINTAINER

Bob Morrison liked what he saw and what he learned when he attended Annual Signal Department Part 214 EIC Training so much that he decided to stay - As a Student Signal Maintainer.  Bob is a graduate of Docent Class 28 and an active Docent.  He is a retired electrical engineer having worked in the hydro end of the power generation and distribution business.  Welcome aboard Bob!  We're glad to have you as part of the Signal Crew!!!

FIRST PART OF SUTTERVILLE ROAD ANNUAL COMPLETE

The First Part of the Sutterville Road Annual inspection was completed today, as well as the Monthly Inspection, by a Signal Crew consisting of Signal Maintainer Dave (EIC), Signal Maintainer Al, Student Signal Maintainers Bill and Marc and Signal Engineer Dale.  The Monthly Inspection passed.  All of the Annual Inspection was completed except for the  inspection and cleaning of the cantilever flashing lights, the gongs and the checking of alignment of all flashing light fixtures.  The Second Part of the annual inspection is scheduled for May 24th.  The crew did a Great Job today!!  Thanks to Everyone!!

MAY 20, 2011

NMRA PRESENTATION COMMITTEE MET TODAY

The Signal Department is continuing with the planning and preparation of the presentation and train ride for the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) members who will be in Sacramento for a convention on July 7th.  The Signal Department committee member number has been growing with, as shown in the  photo to the left from left to right; Dave, Joe, Al and Jim.  Not shown are Paul and Dale.  As we gain more insight into just what needs to be done more and more small details that need to be taken care of come to light.  This is going to be a fun event with other organizations thankfully, helping out including our own Maintenance Of Way Department and the Niles Canyon Railway Signal Department.  During the meeting today Dave provided a first look at the presentation he will be making to the conventioneers and Joe and Jim got a first hand look at some of their specific assignments.  Al made lots and lots of insightful suggestions as usual!

MAY 19, 2011

Q AND R STREETS PLACED IN SERVICE AND FIXTURES CLEANED

Today's Signal Crew did not have to work in the rain!  The crew consisting of Al [EIC], Jim, Joe and Dale stayed dry today like a normal May day....  They had two tasks assigned at Q and R Streets.  First; repair the broken bond wire found during a Call Out yesterday and second; clean the flashing light fixtures that could not be cleaned during the Annual Inspection on May 17th.  The broken bond wire was replaced, the Motion Sensors were recalibrated and the systems placed back in service.  All the Flashing Light Fixtures, but one, were cleaned.  The sixteenth fixture had an active wasps nest within the visor with wasps upon it.  Not having any wasp remover spray and having had experience in these types of situation, the crew elected not to clean the fixture and have it done at a later work day.  The crew was also scheduled to replace suspect bond wires on the Broadway NA and the Front Street SA.  The suspect bond wires were not considered suspect enough and the crew did not replace them.  Sometime nothing is easy................  The crew had a safe and dry day.   Thanks Crew!!!

MAY 18, 2011

CALL OUT TO Q STREET AND R STREET

At 1:40 PM the Signal Engineer received a call from Signal Maintainer Al, just off duty as Locomotive Engineer, during which he explained that he had received a call from the Conductor that the Conductor had received a call from an unknown source that the lights and gongs at both Q Street and R Street were activated but no train was in either approach.  The Signal Engineer met Al at the R Street.  Al had just taken Q Street out of service and they promptly took R Street out of service.  Further investigation reveled that both system's associated Motion Sensors were showing a very high EZ reading, which normally indicates a broken bond wire.  Based on the two EZ readings they chose to inspect the bond wires in the South Approach and at MP 0.98 they found one, broken.  They verified that only one bond wire was broken and left the site with both systems out of service.  The Crew Center as well as the Manager of Railroad Operations was notified.  A Signal Crew was scheduled to replace bond wires the next day.  Signal Engineer notified the EIC of that crew, it is Al, of the additional work.  Cause of the broken bond is suspected to be the placement of a skate for a box car that had been set at that spot earlier in the day.  The skate was probably placed upon the rail just where the bond wire connection is welded to the rail and broke the weld.  Thanks for the response Crew!!

MAY 17, 2011

FIRST ANNUAL INSPECTION OF Q STREET AND R STREET

A Signal Crew consisting of Paul [EIC], Al, Jim, Bill and Dale braved the stormy weather today and implemented the first Annual Inspections of Q Street and R Street as well as Monthly Inspections.  There was a consistent rain with some wind thrown in for extra fun!  After the basic ground work was complete, Signal Maintainer Al turned into Locomotive Engineer Al and the timing test were conducted using SSRR Locomotive 2008.  Both systems passed the Annual and Monthly Inspections.  Thanks crew and hope you enjoyed getting soaked again!

CIRCULAR P1 ISSUED

The Manager of Railroad Operations, with the approval of the Manager of Track Programs, has annulled Circular P (See march 31st New News below) and has issued Circular P1 in it's place.  This is the Circular titled "Signal Department Cell Phones".  Here is the difference:  Circular P required all crew members to stop work when any crew member needed to use a cell phone.  Circular P1 does not require all crew members to stop work when any crew member needs to use a cell phone.  Circular P1 adds a new requirement:  If the EIC wants to allow the use of cell phones then the EIC must discuss the use of cell phones in the Briefing.  If cell phones are not discussed during the Briefing it is therefore implied that cell phones must not be used by any crew member while on duty.

MAY 16, 2011

SCHEDULER MAKING SPECIAL PLAN FOR JUNE

Signal Department Scheduler, Jim, has sent out requests for crews for June 4th to implement Monthly Inspections on that morning.  We would like to complete the June Monthly Inspections in the morning and then transition right into having our Annual Signal BBQ.  The plan is to set up as many three man, minimum, crews as we can and do all the inspections as quickly as possible using Approach Warning as our On-Track Safety.  Using Approach Warning will minimize the confusion of multiply Working Limits for the train crews that day.  After completion of the inspections we'll go over to one of usual locations in Miller Park and let Chef Al (Signal Department Recreational Director) fix up a batch of Signal Burgers.  the Signal Engineer is hoping to get a group Photo that day and is hoping all Signal Organization Crew Members are available.  Please RSVP the BBQ - ASAP!

MAY 15, 2011

MONTHLY INSPECTIONS AS CREW GETS HAILED

A Signal Crew consisting of Signal Maintainer Dave, as EIC, Signal Maintainer Jim, Student Signal Maintainer Marc, Signal Engineer Dale and Manager of Track Programs John completed the Monthly Inspections of Capitol Mall, Broadway and Front Street today.  Scheduled Trains were in operation so Working Limits On-Track Safety was set up for protection.  Our work was on schedule because Signal Maintainer Al was the SSRR Operations Trainmaster today and he had our Train Orders all ready to go before we arrived at the Crew Center for briefing.  We missed the briefing with the Operations Crew but we did get a jump start on Capitol Mall and so did not interfere with train operations.  Thanks Al!  No problems were encountered and all systems passed.  The excitement for the day was the weather.  It started raining shortly before starting the first inspection at Capitol Mall.  Then it Hailed!  Then, just as we left Capitol Mall the hail and rain stopped and we thought we were out of it.  Nope...  We moved to Broadway and as soon as we opened the cabinet doors it started to Hail!!  Upon completion of Broadway the rain and hail stopped.  We moved to Front Street.  Just as we opened the cabinet doors it started to hail again.  We all ended up pretty wet!!!  We were wet, tools were wet and our paperwork was soaked...  We used Maintenance Of Way's truck "CT" today for the first time.  Worked out well as it carries five passengers and a lot of equipment.  Thanks for the loan MOW!!!   We enjoyed having the Manger of Track Programs, John, with us today.  He wanted to take some video but passed on that since he did not want to ruin his equipment by soaking it in hail!  He at least got baptized in Signal stuff.  Also Thanks to the Signal Crew today too!  It was a very wet and cold morning but we all enjoyed it...  Oh, and guess when the rain finally stopped.  Just when we finished putting our equipment away at the Signal Shop and left to go it stopped raining, the clouds parted and the sun shined upon us...  Ahhhh  Fun!!

MAY 14, 2011

GATE DOWN CALL OUT TO FRONT  STREET!!

At about 11:15 AM this morning the Signal Engineer received a call from the Manager of Track Programs that the west bound gate arm at Front Street was loose and about to fall.  The Signal Engineer called out Signal Maintainer Dave and Student Signal Maintainer Bill.  Upon arriving at Front Street the west bound gate was found on the ground (MOW had removed it and placed it there so it would not fall.).   The tip light was dark and one flashing light fixture was out of alignment.  A trip to the Signal Shop by Dave brought the necessary equipment and parts.  The gate arm was re-attached, the tip lamp was replaced and the flashing light fixture was realigned.  The probable reason for the gate falling?:  The shear bolt was found on the ground and inspection showed that one end had been sheared off for a long time.  The wind today was strong and perhaps with the operation of the gate for Train #1 moving through the crossing was just enough vibration to finally force it loose with the help of the wind.

MAY 13, 2011

BYE-BYE MIRRA MACHINE - HELLO GOFLEX HOME?

The Mirra Machine, which is no longer supported by the manufacture, started to incur a problem on May 3rd that the Signal Engineer could not repair.  After Several communications with the manufactures Customer Support it was determined that the problem is in the Mirra Servers a www.mira.com and they did not know when of if they would be repaired.  After some research the Signal Engineer decided that the Mirra Machine problems would only be getting worse and that a replacement product should be found.  A search a couple of years ago turned up no compatible equipment, but this year a replacement was found by the same manufacturer as the Mirra Machine.  The replacement is a Seagate GoFlex Home Network Storage System.  A GoFlex was purchased and placed into operation today.  The same document files loaded on the Mirra Machine have been loaded on the GoFlex and invitations have been sent to Signal personnel.  The GoFlex operates similar to the Mirra Machine.  It might take a while to get beyond the learning curve for everyone but hopefully it will end up being effective and even more efficient than the Mirra Machine.  Check your email for your invitations to view the folders on the GoFlex and try it out!

MAY 12, 2011

Q AND R STREETS ANNUAL INSPECTIONS HAVE BEEN RESCHEDULED

The Annual Inspections of Q Street and R Street have been rescheduled from Thursday, May 19th two days earlier to Tuesday, May 17th.  Signal Maintainer Paul continues to be EIC.  Rounding out the crew continues to be Jim, Bill and Al with acting as locomotive engineer for timing tests.  The change was made to facilitate the EIC's dynamic schedule.

MIRRA MACHINE TO BE OFF LINE A FEW DAYS

The signal Engineer announced today that the Mirra Machine will be remove from service this afternoon to facilitate repairs to windows in his office.  Please download what you need prior to Noon today.  The Mirra Machine will be off line until at least tomorrow evening and possibly up to several days.

MOVE OF SIGNAL SHOP MIGHT BE GETTING CLOSER

The coordinator of the move of the various departments from the Old SP Boiler Shop requested information on possible Signal Department hazardous materials today.  Signal Facilities Move Coordinator, Al, spoke with the coordinator and provided the necessary information.  See April 6th "This Might Be The Right Place......." in New News below.

MAY 11, 2011

THE SIGNAL ORGANIZATION NOW HAS SOMEONE TO TRACK OUR ACCOUNTING AND ASSETS

The signal Engineer announced today the appointment of well known Docent Volunteer, Linda, to the position of Signal Accounting & Assets Clerk.  Linda will report to the Signal Engineer and will be involved in various accounting, business control development and asset tracking activities.  For the last three months she has been helping the Signal Engineer develop a new Signal Purchase Requisition and Business Control Rules.  When he showed her the new Position Description she immediately filled in and handed in an application for it.  The Manager Of Track Programs approved the application and Linda has accepted the position.  Please Welcome Linda to the Signal Organization and please.....  No Initiation Ceremony!   Welcome Aboard Linda!!!

MAY 9, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT BRIEFING 2011-003 RELEASED BY THE SIGNAL ENGINEER

The Signal Engineer released and posted Signal Department Briefing 2011-003 this last Saturday titled "Inspections By FRA - Be Safe, Be Ready and Cooperate".  Go to your account on the Mirra Machine and review the new Briefing in the folder titled: "SSRR Signal Briefings". 

MAY 7, 2011

ANNUAL PART 214 EIC TRAINING AND EXAM WAS; Ah... A LOT OF FUN!

Annual Signal Department Part 214 EIC Training and Examination was held today with ten crew members from two volunteer railroads participating.  Eight of the SSRR Signal Department Crew were there: Al, Bill, Dale, Dave, Jim, Joe, Marc and Paul.  Two crew members from the Placerville and Sacramento Valley Railroad (PSVRR) also attended:  Bob the Signal Engineer and Marcus the Director of Rules Training and Safety (See their photos below).  This year the training was developed not by the Signal Engineer but by a team consisting of the Signal Trainer, Paul, (See May 6th below) and the Signal Engineer.  The signal Trainer introduced new material such as first aid; what to do in the event of Heat Exhaustion, heat Stroke or Electrocution.  The in the field training was held at R Street with the resurrection of the 440' Contest and also a 528' Contest by the Signal Trainer (Marc was closest to the 440' mark and Joe was closest to the 528' mark).  We all took a hike and were shown the SMUD service entrance and meter for our electric power supply which powers both Q and R Streets and eventually S and T Streets.  The crew then moved on to the Big-4 Conference Room and continued with the training covering various topics including the use of cell phones on the right of way.  The examination was then taken with all crew members receiving a passing grade.  Attendees received a lapel pin again this year which reads: "SSRR SIGNAL - 2011-EIC - 440'".  All crew members that will be acting as the Employee In Charge (EIC) of a crew on the right of way must pass the examination.  Passing the examination satisfies part of FRA Part 214.353 which specifies the qualifications of an EIC.  Great Job Everyone!!

Bob           Marcus
!!Thanks for Participating PSVRR Crew Members!!

MAY 6, 2011

California Poppy Award

For Exemplary Volunteer Service

Is Presented To:

SIGNAL MAINTAINER - SIGNAL TRAINER

!!PAUL!!

At the California State Railroad Museum's Annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet this evening Signal Maintainer - Signal Trainer Paul received The California State Parks most prestigious award, The California Poppy Award.  Paul started volunteering at the California State Railroad Museum in the fall of 2002 graduating with Docent Class Number 33.  With over 5,000 volunteered hours since then he has become well known, as the District Superintendant of the State Parks Capitol District put it, as one of our "Go To Docents" and just a "Really Nice Guy"!  at the Museum Paul is a regular Monday morning crew member, a Tour Guide, both regular and specially scheduled and helps out at evening events.  He is often requested to speak to organizations that request a speaker from the Museum and I can vouch that because of that knows some railroad history trivia that is exceptionally interesting.  He also helped develop the idea of a Museum Advisory Committee and is a charter member of it.  Just walking through the Museum with Paul is an experience in itself.  He knows and greets most of the Docents on the floor and stops and chats when we take the shortcut through there - Might take longer but it's fun to be with Paul!  Paul joined the SSRR as a Student Signal Maintainer in January 2003 and became a Car Attendant that summer season.  He was Certified as a Signal Maintainer in February 2004.  That same year he was appointed as a Project Manager for the Signal Department representing the Department when Caltrans repainted the Tower Bridge, when Caltrans and the City of Sacramento widened the Tower Bridge sidewalks and when the City of Sacramento extended the River Promenade and constructed the Q and R Street Crossings.  In 2008 Paul and the Signal Engineer started to develop the concept of a Signal Department Trainer, which Paul volunteered to be, and was appointed to that position in May 2010.  In 2006 Paul was promoted to Brakeman on the SSRR and when the on board narrator position on the trains was developed he volunteered for that duty too.  He is a busy man, but wait, there is more:  Paul has been in the Boy Scouts Of America Organization since a boy, when he became an Eagle Scout, and never left scouting.  He was a troop leader when his son was involved and continued to advance within that organization.  He is currently President of the Golden Empire Council - Boy Scouts Of America here in Sacramento.  He is also a Philatelist.  You know, a stamp collector.  Paul specializes in stamps that have been postmarked on U.S. Navy Ships and Boats.  There is an elite group of these Philatelist that do this and they have their own International Organization which Paul is active in, having been until recently the President of the organization.  And there is more still; as he is still involved with the company he was employed with in retirement groups, has been involved in community matters and takes care of neighbors when they need help.  I am sure this does not cover it all...............  But as the District Superintendant stated:  "He Is Really A Nice Guy!!!' 

!!!!!CONGRATULATIONS SIGNAL DEPARTMENT CREW MEMBER PAUL!!!!!

"In your years as a volunteer at the California State Railroad Museum, your dedication has
inspired exceptional service, compassion and commitment in your fellow docents"

APRIL 30, 2011

ANNUAL PART 214 EIC EXAMINATION TRAINING HANDOUT POSTED

The Signal Trainer and Signal Engineer have posted this years Annual Part 214 EIC Examination Training Handout on the Mirra Machine today.  Thanks to the efforts of the Signal Trainer we are covering new areas of responsibilities of an EIC this year in the first aid safety area.  Two new SOPs have been developed by the Signal Trainer which have been incorporated in the posted handout.  These SOPs are:  SOP 14.683.21-OPSP titled "Heat Emergencies" and SOP 14.683.31-OPSP titled "Electric Shock Treatment".  (OPSP is the acronym for One Point Signal Procedure.)  The handout is in the folder titled "SSRR Part 214 Examination Training Material".  After reviewing the material you have any questions or concerns please contact the Signal Trainer.  If you do not have access to the folder please contact the Signal Engineer.  The Annual Part 214 EIC Training and Examination is scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM on Saturday, May 7th.  See you there!

APRIL 29, 2011

THE SIGNAL ENGINEER'S MONTHLY REPORT FOR MARCH POSTED TODAY

The Signal Engineer has posted the March 2011 Signal Engineer's Report on the Mirra Machine.  Have a look.  See Part A to find out what inspections were completed, what got repaired and what didn't and when future inspections are due.  Review Part E if you are wondering what materials and services are on order or have arrived and Part F if you are wondering where we have been spending our volunteering time.  Please keep in mind that the sooner the crew reports their off site time to the Signal Engineer each month the more timely the report becomes.  The Signal Engineer appreciates those early time reports!!!  Thanks....

APRIL 28, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT SAFETY BULLETIN 2011-001 ISSUED

The Signal Engineer issued Safety Bulletin 2011-001 titled "Use Of Electronic Devices While Working On The Right Of Way" today.  As explained in the bulletin it was developed to provide an understanding of the Manager Of Track Program's interpretation of the Manager Of Railroad Operation's Circular P.  (See article dated March 31st below.)  Circular P is an attempt to enforce the requirements of FRA Emergency Order 26 upon the Maintenance Of Way crew members and the Signal Department crew members working on the right of way.  Safety Bulletin 2011-001 is based on Signal Department SOP 14.768.02 titled "Procedures for Use of Electronic Devices while Working on the Right Of Way" provides safe procedures for using Two-Way Radios, Cell Phones, Computers, Instrumentation, Cameras and other Electronic Devices on the right of way.  All Signal Organization personnel have been issued a copy of Safety bulletin 2011-001 and it has been posted on the Mirra Machine in the folder titled "SSRR Signal Bulletins".

APRIL 27, 2011

SANTA FE LOCOMOTIVES MOVED BACK TO CLUNIE

The Signal Engineer was requested to standby in case a bond wire came loose during the move of the Santa Fe Steam Locomotives back to the Clunie Siding today.  With SSRR 2008 on the point south and SSRR 2030 on the point north an Operations Crew, consisting of SSRR Operations Crew personnel and Restoration Shop crew personnel, slowly moved from the Old Sacramento Yard to the Clunie south cutout.  SSRR 2030 then pulled Santa Fe 5021 through the cross over north until the 5021 was clear.  Then 2030 shoved 5021 into the siding and south to it's resting storage location.  The movements were then repeated for Santa Fe 2925.  The Signal Engineer learned some foamer stuff, while watching the movements, from the Director of Railroad Operations, Alan.  The Santa Fe 5021 (2-10-4) has the longest rigid wheel bass of any locomotive ever manufactured and used consistently on a railroad in the United States (Perhaps in the world?).  This means it can't negotiate curves with tight radiuses.  Years ago, when the 5021 was in use, the Main Lines it was used on were maintained with curves with long radiuses so that it and other locomotives with long wheel bases could operate.  According to Alan, the 5021 could no longer move along Main Lines that it used to as they have been rebuilt with tighter radiuses, which can be easily moved on with by modern diesel electric power locomotives.  Now that is interesting even to a non-foamer!!!!

APRIL 26, 2011

MAY INSPECTIONS SCHEDULED AND ASSIGNMENTS POSTED

Our newly baptized Signal Scheduler, Jim, has posted the Inspection Schedule for May and the corresponding Assignments.  The Schedule and Assignments are:

Sunday, May 15th - Monthly Inspections of Capitol Mall, Broadway and Front Streets.
The Crew - Dave [EIC], Jim and Marc.
Note - These Inspections will require On-Track Safety procedures while Trains In Operation.

Thursday, May 19th - Monthly and Annual Inspections of Q Street and R Street.
The Crew - Paul [EIC], Jim and Bill.  Al requested to set up light engine movement for timing tests.

Saturday, May 21st - Monthly Inspection and first part of Annual Inspection of Sutterville Road.
The Crew - Dave [EIC], Bill and Marc

Tuesday, May 24 - Second part of Annual Inspection of Sutterville Road.
The Crew - Paul [EIC], Al, Jim and Bill.  Crew to be assisted by retained contractor.

Great Job Jim!!  Thank You!!

APRIL 25, 2011

APRIL INSPECTIONS COMPLETE AT SUTTERVILLE ROAD

A Happy Crew, see photo at left, and some April Showers came together and completed the April Inspections.  A Signal Crew consisting of Dale as EIC, Al. Bill and Jim happily inspected the Sutterville Road Warning System today.  Batteries were provided a good drink and a developing pot hole in the asphalt concrete in the island right of way was noted.  Both Monthly and Quarterly Inspections passed.  Happy Days Crew!

ANNUAL SIGNAL DEPARTMENT PART 214 EIC TRAINING AND EXAM NEARS.....

If your calendar is not already marked and high lighted mark it now (If you are one of the lucky ones) that this years Annual Signal Department Part 214 EIC Training and Examination is scheduled for Saturday morning, May 7th.  This years training material is being developed jointly by the Signal Trainer, Paul, and the Signal Engineer and although a little later than in the past will be posted soon.  Don't wait until the night before the examination to review and study because that is the Docent Banquet night! 

APRIL 21, 2011

INSPECTIONS COMPLETED TODAY

Two Signal Crews completed five Monthly and five Quarterly Inspections today.  Work included washing light fixtures, adding battery water and removal of graffiti (See photos at left of graffiti removal at R Street).  Both crews converged on the Capitol Mall crossing and stayed as a team until the flashing lights were washed.  The first crew (Signal Maintainer Al as EIC and Signal Maintainer Al) then proceeded to the Broadway and Front Street crossings.  The second crew (Signal Engineer Dale as EIC and Student Signal Maintainer Bill) completed the inspection of Capitol Mall and then proceeded to Q Street and R Street.  Sutterville Road crossing, originally scheduled for today, was not done and will be rescheduled.  Good Job everyone!! 

APRIL 6, 2011

ANNUAL SHOP DAY POSTPONED

Because several crew members could not attend the Annual Shop Day scheduled for April 16th and because of the potential move of the Signal Shop the Signal Engineer is postponing the Annual Shop Day from April 16th to a yet to be determined date.  It is anticipate that the rescheduled Shop Day will be shortly before the Signal Shop is moved and the primary efforts that day will be preparing the shop for the move.  Any crew members that would still like to work in the Signal Shop on April 16th may.  Please contact the Signal Engineer or acting Signal Shop Supervisor Joe.

APRIL 2, 2011

RADIO SECTION STARTS THE FIX-IT-TICKET RADIO REPAIR PROGRAM

Radio Section Supervisor (Acting), Al, set up the Radio Fix-It-Ticket program in the Crew Center this morning.  This program is being set up in an effort to assure that radios in need of repair are promptly repaired.  Fix-It-Tickets have been provided in the Crew Center near the two-way radio chargers.  Instructions have been placed close by.  SSRR Crew members who experience a problem with a radio are urged to fill out the Fit-It-Ticket which only requests the date, the crew members name, how to contact the crew member and a brief explanation of the problem and attach it to the radio.  The crew member is then requested to give the radio to the Crew Dispatcher who has been asked to contact Al or his designated backup.  The radio will then be picked up from the Crew center, fixed by Radio Section crew members or forwarded to a vendor for repair.  We are hoping that this simple program will alleviate the potential of radios in need of repair being placed in service only to be found to have a problem.  Way to go Al and the Radio Section!!!  Thanks a Bunch of Megacycles!!

THIS MIGHT BE THE RIGHT PLACE................

For several months, or has it been years, we have been informed that it will be necessary to move the Signal Shop to allow transformation of the old SP Boiler Shop into a part of the proposed Railroad Technology Museum.  Once completed the Signal Shop will once again be within the building.  While the transformation is going on the Signal Shop, along with MOW and other departments will move to temporary structures.  The temporary structure is rumored to be a building at 1900 Railroad Drive in Sacramento.  To view a map of the building location click HERE .  It is the building titled Master Kraft.

Signal Maintainer Al and the Signal Engineer went there today and nosed around.  Here are some shots of the facility.  Hey!  There is a railroad track near by!  Does that look like an old right of way (check out the map) leading north from the main line down to a spur at the back of each building??  No telling for sure if this is the place the Signal Department may end up for awhile but it looks nice from the outside and it is not too far away from our crossings.

APRIL 2, 2011

FIRST EXCURSION TRAIN OPERATION FOR 2011 STARTED TODAY!

The 2011 Excursion Train Season smoothly started today with several members of the Signal Department on the Operations Crew and the SSRR Old Faithful Granit Rock 10 at the head end.  Photos on the left from left to right are:  Train No. 1 with GR10 in the lead, Signal Maintainer Jim preparing to preparing to be a Car Attendant, Student Signal Maintainer Joe readying to be a Car Attendant and Signal Maintainer Dave who was Relief Brakeman today.  The last photo is Student Brakeman, Jeff, being on board photographer today shooting me as I shot him.............  We're off to a great start!!

OFFICIAL SSRR CIRCULAR BINDER NOW IN THE SIGNAL SHOP

Assistant Manager of Railroad Operations, Norm, presented the Signal Engineer with the Official SSRR Circular Binder for the Signal Shop today.  It was promptly placed within the Signal Shop were crews can easily observe it and when reporting to duty duly review it.  Crews:  Remember when reporting for duty at the Signal Shop to review the Circular Binder and read all new Circulars or review any past Circulars whose titles do not sound familiar.  The Circulars are inserted within the Official SSRR Circular Binder with the newest toward the front.  The Index is the last page in the binder.  So you may remember what the Official SSRR Circular Binder looks like outside and in click HERE and HERE.

APRIL 1, 2011

APRIL INSPECTIONS SCHEDULED

The Signal Department Scheduler, Signal Maintainer Dave, has scheduled the day and the crews for the April Inspections.  The inspections are scheduled for Thursday, April 21st,  There are two crews scheduled.  Crew #1 is Signal Maintainer Paul as EIC working with Student Signal Maintainer Bill.  They are assigned to inspect Capitol Mall, Q Street and R Street.  Crew #2 is Signal Maintainer Al as EIC working with working with Signal Maintainer Jim.  They are assigned to Broadway, Front and Sutterville Road.  Monthly and Quarterly Inspections are scheduled.

MARCH 31, 2011

NEW CIRCULARS ISSUED TODAY - ONE IS TITLED "SIGNAL DEPARTMENT CELL PHONES"

The Manager of Railroad Operations (MORRO), Dick, release five new SSRR Circulars today.  They are as follows:  Circular L - Personnel Cell Phones, Circular M - Handling Caboose, Circular N - Crew Promotions (Congratulations to eleven SSRR Crew Members!!!), Circular O - Coupling with Markers and Circular P - Signal Department Cell Phones.  Because of FRA Emergency Order 26 Operation Crew Members cannot use cell phones or other electronic devices while on duty, except in certain circumstances.  Because of possible problems with the use of cell phones by MOW and Signal Department Crews Circular P was developed.  Signal Crew members are allowed to use cell phones while on duty.  However, there are restrictions as described in Circular P.  Be sure to read and understand Circular P.  If you did not receive your emailed copy or you have questions or concerns about its content contact the Signal Engineer.

MARCH 30, 2011

FEBRUARY MONTHLY ENGINEER'S REPORT POSTED

The Signal Engineer has posted the February 2011 Signal Engineer's Report on the Mirra Machine.  Check it out.  You might find something interesting or something you are not aware of.  Please keep in mind that the sooner the crew reports their off site time to the Signal Engineer each month the more timely the report becomes.  The Signal Engineer appreciates those early time reports!!!  Thanks....

MARCH 29, 2011

MARCH MONTHLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED

A Signal Crew consisting of Signal Engineer Dale as EIC, Signal Maintainer Al and Student Signal Maintainers Bill and Joe completed the Monthly Inspections of all Crossing Systems today.  Only problems found:  The Cap Mall East Bound gate mechanism securing bolts were found loose and three flashing light fixtures at Broadway were found out of alignment.  It was a long day 09:00 AM to 04:45 PM for retired guys..  Good Job Crew and Thanks!!!

MARCH 25, 2011

OPERATIONS CREW ASSISTS SIGNAL MAINTAINER TO SECURE WB GATE AT CAP MALL

Signal Maintainer, Al, who was the locomotive engineer on School Trains today got some reinforcements from the Operations Crew, walked to Capitol Mall Grade Crossing and secured the West Bound Gate Arm that was fouling the right of way.  Thanks Al!!  Thanks Operations Crew!!

MARCH MONTHLY INSPECTIONS SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 29TH

A short Signal Crew is scheduled to do the March Monthly Inspections this next Tuesday, March 29th.  Signal Engineer Dale as EIC will lead Student Signal Maintainers Bill and Joe.  Signal Maintainer Al is a tentative.  if you are not laid off and would like to be part of the crew contact the Signal Engineer.

MARCH 24, 2011

CLUNIE CONSIST BOX CARS MOVED AGAIN - CAP MALL WB GATE ARM FOULING

The Clunie Consist box cars were moved by SSRR Operations Crew from a location between MP 03.10 and MP 03.40 to the Miller Siding.  Residents in the area of MP 03.10 to MP 03.40 were concern about the consist and were asking about it.  As part of a good neighbor policy the SSRR made the move.  During the move of a light locomotive through the Capitol Mall Grade Crossing the crew had to hold the West Bound Gate Arm away from the locomotive so it could move through.  The Signal Engineer was made aware of the conflict at 8:24 PM this evening.  Signal Crew will respond tomrrow.

MARCH 20, 2011

CLUNIE CONSIST MOVED DUE TO HIGH RIVER WATER LEVEL

The Clunie Consist which consists of the Santa Fe 2925 (4-8-4), the Santa Fe 5021 (2-10-4) and several elderly box cars were moved from the Clunie Siding, which is on a Sacramento River levee.  This was a necessary precaution due to high Sacramento River water levels.  When the river water level reaches the monitor stage (above elevation 25 feet at the I Street Bridge) the Government authorities begin to monitor the condition of the levee 24 hours a day.  In case levee repairs need to be made the Clunie Consist is moved from the levee to another location as a precautionary measure.  The monitor stage level was reached yesterday afternoon.  The two Santa Fe locomotives were moved by SSRR Operations Crew to a location in the Old Sacramento yard just west of the Freight Station.  The box cars were moved to a location on the Main Line between MP 03.10 and MP 03.40. 

MARCH 16, 2011

CSRM DOCENT RECOGNITION BANQUET ANNOUNCED AND THEN DATE REVISED

The CSRM All Aboard Desk announced that this years 2011 Docent Recognition Banquet would be held the evening of April 22nd.  Apparently, the fact that April 22nd is Good Friday, caused many Docents to send in messages to the All Aboard Desk requesting a date change.  The CSRM management understood the wisdom in that and promptly change the date to May 6th.  This years theme is "Vegas Baby".  That should be interesting.  Also to keep in mind is that the Signal Department Annual Part 214 EIC Training is scheduled for Saturday, May 7th this year.  All Signal Department crew members attending the training should make sure they are bright eyed and bushy tailed the morning of the 7th.  Mark your Calendars Everyone!!

MARCH 15, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT SCHEDULER HAS REQUESTED APRIL LAYOFFS

Signal Department Scheduler, Dave, has requested all Signal Maintainers and Student Signal Maintainers to submit their layoffs for April so that he can schedule the April Monthly and Quarterly Inspections.  If you are one of them please submit yours now.  Thanks!

MARCH 14, 2011

SECOND SESSION OF RULES TRAINING THIS NEXT SATURDAY

There are two more SSRR Operations and Safety Rules Training sessions scheduled for this year.  The next one this coming Saturday starting at 1:00 PM in the Stanford Gallery.  The session following that one is scheduled for Wednesday, March 30th beginning at 6:00 PM also in the Stanford Gallery.  All Signal Maintainers must attend one of the training sessions and pass the associated examination to stay certified.  Just a friendly reminder...............

MARCH 12, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT RECRUITERS MET A LOT OF GREAT DOCENTS TODAY!

Three Signal Department crew members, Al, Joe and Dale, met some new Docents today at the Docent Job Fair set up by Theresa and Brandy on the CSRM Mezzanine.  The Docents the crew met were bright, cheerful, interested and inquisitive.  (The Museum is so lucky to attract such talented people to volunteer!!  Which makes the Signal Department lucky too!!)  The crew reports that they handed out several sets of Position Descriptions and Applications:  Seven Signal Shop Worker, two Signal Worker, one Student Signal Maintainer and one Signal CAD Drafter.  Most of the Docents the crew met are in the current, underway now, Docent Training Class.  There were one or two graduated Docents that inquired about the Signal Organization program.  The Docent Job Fair was open to all CSRM Docents.  Previously graduated docents were not in abundance, probably because of the anticipated parking lot problem due to SSRR Training and Docent Training and the anticipated crowd problem in Old Sacramento due to the Saint Patrick's Day Parade. (The City was projecting 20,000 parade watchers!)  Thanks to Theresa and Brandy for setting up the Job Fair and thanks to Al, Joe and Dale for representing the Signal Organization.

MARCH 7, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT POSITIONS TO BE OFFERED AT THE JOB FAIR HAVE BEEN CUT

Due to a naive assumption regarding available resources several of the entry level Signal Organization positions planned to be offered at the upcoming Job Fai,r on Saturday afternoon, March 12th, will not be.  The available list has been reduced from eleven to four.  The available four are:  Signal Associate, Student Signal Maintainer, Signal Worker and Signal Shop Worker.  Several of the removed positions require the use of equipment and supplies that the Signal Engineer understood existed, but when looked for didn't.  The misunderstanding will be analyzed and a solution develop so that the positions can be offered in the future.  Hang in there Everyone!!

MARCH 6, 2011

RAIN TODAY CAUSED CANCELLATION OF MONTHLY INSPECTIONS

EICs Al and Jim collaborated with the Signal Engineer and today's scheduled inspections have been cancelled due to copious amounts of rain.  The inspections will be rescheduled soon. 

MARCH 1, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN DOCENT JOB FAIR

In conjunction with the current Docent Class in training, a Docent Job Fair will be held on March 12th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Stanford Lounge at the CSRM.  The Job Fair provides an opportunity for docents to learn what types of volunteer opportunities are available within the CSRM and the SSRR.  Each Department is provided a space and a table and volunteers from those Departments are made available to talk with the Docents and explain what positions are available.  All Docents are invited to attend the Job Fair.  It is not limited to just the new Docent Class Docents.  The Signal Department has twelve Entry Level Positions, eleven of which are open.  Besides the Signal Department position that everyone thinks of, Student Signal Maintainer, the Department has some odd positions like Signal Web Master and Radio Worker.  To view a copy of the Signal Department Bulletin Board announcement that lists the various positions click right HERE.  If you are in the neighborhood on the afternoon of March 12th stop by and see what is going on.  If you would like to help out at the Signal Department table contact the Signal Engineer.

FEBRUARY 27, 2011

JANUARY MONTHLY ENGINEER'S REPORT POSTED

The Signal Engineer has posted the January 2011 Signal Engineer's Report on the Mirra Machine.  Since this is the first report for the year you should have received a new Mirra Machine invitation.  Lots of updates in this months report.  Check It Out!

FEBRUARY 25, 2011

SIGNAL SCHEDULER MAKES MARCH ASSIGNMENTS

Signal Scheduler, Dave, has set up the schedule for the March Monthly Inspection.  All inspections are scheduled for Sunday, March 6th.  Two crews have been scheduled.  The first crew with Jim as EIC will inspect Capitol Mall, Q Street and R Street.  On Jim's crew are Randy and Marc.  The second crew with Al as EIC will inspect Broadway, Front Street and Sutterville Road.  OOn Al's crew are Bill and Joe.  Lurking around will the Signal Engineer, Dale, taking photos and notes.  Have Fun everyone!

FEBRUARY 19, 2011

NMRA IS ADVERTISING THE SSRR SIGNAL PRESENTATION AND TOUR IN JULY 

EXTRA 2011 WEST

The National Model Railroad Association has posted description of the presentation and train ride/tour of three of our grade crossings on the NMRA web site.  Click Here to get to it.  This years NMRA Convention is being held in Sacramento July 6th through July 10th.  The logo shown above is the NMRA Convention logo.  On Thursday, July 7th, the Signal Department with help and assistance of several other groups and organizations will provide about a one hour presentation in the West Theater in the CSRM and then a train ride tour and inspection of three of the SSRR Grade Crossing Warning Signal Systems.  The presentation and tour is being co-coordinated by Signal Maintainer/Signal Trainer Paul and Signal Maintainer Dave.  Here is part of the advertising announcement from the NMRA web site:

"Our morning will start in one of the Railroad Museum's presentation theater, with discussion of not only how track detection and grade crossing signals work but also the Federal Regulations that control those activities.  The how and why the signals are where they are and operate the way they do.  After that we will board a Sacramento Southern train and visit three different grade crossings on the line.  We will break into sub-groups with one at each crossing, rotating so each group can discuss the inner workings of each of the three types of crossing protection systems."

We are going to need a lot of assistance and help to implement this presentation and tour in a professional coordinated way.  Mark your calendars and contact Dave or Paul and let them know your availability.  They will be looking for presenters, On-Track Safety crew and sub-group coordinators in the foreground and set up and transportation crews in the background.  Be a part of a Super Team and come join in the Fun of planning and implementing an event like this!!

FEBRUARY 13, 2011

FRONT STREET EAST BOUND MAST ALMOST HIT - !!AGAIN!!

Signal Maintainer Dave and the Signal Engineer were out on the line this morning taking photos for the upcoming NMRA presentation when they discovered that the east Bound Mast at Front Street had narrowly escaped being struck again.  It appears the accident happened Saturday or perhaps Friday night since the Signal Crew implementing inspections at Front Street did not notice the damage on Friday and the disturbed soil and vegetation is still fresh.  Just like in the two previous accidents a vehicle going west at a very high velocity on Front Street lost control on the curve crossed the oncoming traffic lane and entered the landscaped area on the south side of the street.  The vehicle knocked down the post holding the chain across the entrance to the parking lot and knock down a pole with two signs on it.  It then proceeded west across the entrance to the MOW yard and across the Main Line, hitting the rails.  During the previous accidents the vehicles then swerved north just missing the East Bound Mast and ended in the intersection.  This vehicle, instead, veered slightly south and passed through a space between the East Bound Mast and the large tree just south of it.  It then knocked down the petroleum pipeline vent pipe and proceed across Ramp Way, the road to the boat launch area, up the curb on the other side of Ramp Way, across a section of lawn and plowed into a good size tree knocking off a rather large section of bark and damaging the tree.  The Manager of Railroad Operations was contacted.  He in turn contacted the Manager of Track Programs so that a MOW crew could be assigned to inspect the rail, and the State Parks Ranger Dispatch so that the City PD could be contacted.  The previously accidents were, in October 2006 and July 2009.  The first accident in 2006 slightly damaged the gate mechanism and knock over one bollard and severed another.  The second accident in 2009 missed the equipment by just inches.  Suggestion:  Keep a close watch on west bound traffic approaching Front Street when you are working there. 

FEBRUARY 12, 2011

2011 SIGNAL DEPARTMENT POCKET CALENDARS AVAILABLE - FINALLY

The 2011 Signal Department Pocket Calendar has finally been revised and released by the Signal Engineer.  Contact the Signal Engineer to get your copies.  If you would like to view a sample Click Here.  The front shows holidays in green, work days (for working folks) in blue, weekends in black and Special Signal Days in Red.  The back lists, by month, what type of inspections are due and the Special Signal Days.  The Signal Department Pocket Calendar is printed on card stock and is approximately the size of an IBM key punch card.  The style has some historical significance because it is patterned after original IBM Accounting Calendars that used to be distributed to IBM employees in days gone bye-bye.

FEBRUARY 11, 2011

FEBRUARY MONTHLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED

What a Beautiful Day for inspections!  Clear and cool (High about 64°) - Perfect!  A Signal Crew of six took advantage of it and implemented the February Monthly Inspections and Tests.  Employees In Charge Jim and Chuck commanded the crew troops consisting of Student Signal Maintainers Marc, Joe and Bill and Signal Engineer Dale.  Take a look at the fourth photo from the left.  That's Sergeant Chuck making sure private Bill gets the paper work right!!  There were no problems with any systems and all systems passed inspection.  The crew did find both crossbucks at Front Street flaking paint and they are only 7 and 6 years old....  Also added water to batteries at Front Street.  The crew didn't have the regular dispensing equipment so Student Maintainer (and the guy that wants to organize the Signal Shop) Joe pulled a Randy(*) and found a way.  The crew was at Sutterville Road from about 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM.  The vehicle traffic was heavy and the crew backed up a lot of vehicles when washing the fixtures.  Signal Maintainer Chuck suggests Sutterville Road Inspections be scheduled for mid mornings when vehicle traffic is at a minimum and the Signal Engineer agreed.  (*)  Student Signal Maintainer Randy, brought up on a farm, can usually find a way to get something done or running with little of anything.  He says that's what had to be done on the farm..  Good Job Crew!!!!!

FEBRUARY 2, 2011

SIGNAL DEPARTMENT HELPS MOW KILL WEEDS

Three Signal Crew personnel, Al, Joe and Dale, assisted Grand MOW Killer of Weeds and anything else that grows, Mike, along the Main Line (MP 2.5 to MP 3.6) and in the Old Sac Yard today.  The previous day a MOW crew, also with some Signal Department personnel, sprayed the right of way (MP 00.30 to MP 2.5).  It is always fun to go weed killing with Mike.  You never know what you might find along the right of and/or what equipment will break next.  This day everything ran pretty good and the Grand Weed Killer was smiling......... of course he was going to SSRR Engineering Training tonight and that might be why he was so giggly.  Want to come along and join in the Fun?  Contact Al, Randy, Joe, Bill or Dale.  Next stop?  Probably south of Freeport!  It is stunningly Beautiful there this time of year!!  Be a part of the Weed Killers and see for yourself!

JANUARY 29, 2011

SSRR TRAINMASTER-CONDUCTOR SEMINAR HELD TODAY

The Manager of Railroad Operations, Dick, and his side kick Assistant Manager of Railroad Operations, Norm, held the Annual SSRR Trainmaster-Conductor Seminar today in the Stanford Gallery at the CSRM.  New Timetable 16 and the 2011 General Orders were available.  New News about the General Orders:  The GO now has several less sections.  The removed sections are now becoming SSRR Circulars.  This move makes the SSRR GO in compliance with the new Section 1.3.3 of the  Sixth edition of the General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR).  A Signal Department Briefing will be published explaining more about Circulars.  Other topics covered in the meeting includes: Job Briefings, Employee In Charge, Red Zone Procedures, and what the Conductor's duties are on the Excursion Trains during the 10 minutes just prior to departure.  It was a very informative meeting which it appeared the Trainmasters and Conductors benefited from.

JANUARY 28, 2011

REMEMBER THE DONATED SEMAPHORE? - BYE-BYE!

The Semaphore donated to the Signal Department by Car Department Crew Member and SSRR Locomotive Engineer, Steve, (See New News - December 6, 2010) will not be restored by the Signal Department.  Director of Railroad Operations, Alan, and CSRM Curator, Kyle, have determined that the Semaphore is an artifact and being, perhaps 100 years old should be placed into the museum's collection for use in the future as part of a museum display etc.  Although it is sad for the Signal Crew to not finally have a working semaphore it is a bright spot for the museum's collection.  By placing in the museum's collection it is assured that future generations of museum visitors will enjoy seeing it, perhaps even in operation.  So....  Off we go hoping again....................

SIGNAL ENGINEER'S LAST MONTHLY REPORT FOR 2010 POSTED

Part One of the Signal Engineer's December Report, the last report for 2010, has been posted to the Mirra Machine.  All Signal Department personnel may review Part One by going to www.mirra.com and logging into their account.  The report reports that the Signal Department volunteer crew members volunteer a total of 2,540.75 hours implementing Signal Department activities on behalf of the SSRR/CSRM.  Great Work Everybody!!!!

JANUARY 21, 2011

SIGNAL SCHEDULER MAKES FEBRUARY INSPECTION  ASSIGNMENTS

Signal Department Scheduler released the February Inspection schedule and assignments today.  All inspections are scheduled on Friday, February 11th.  Assignments are:  Capitol Mall, Q Street and R Street; Signal Maintainers Al [EIC] & Chuck and Student Signal Maintainer Bill, Broadway and Front Street; Signal Maintainer Jim [EIC], Student Signal Maintainers Mark and Joe, Sutterville; Signal Maintainer Jim [EIC] as well as all other crew members available.  Monthly Inspections are scheduled at all crossings.  The Scheduler has also scheduled a Quarterly Inspection at Sutterville Road.  Have Fun and Be Safe Crew!!

JANUARY 20, 2011

MEETING HELD TODAY WITH NMRA CONVENTION ORGANIZERS

Signal Department volunteers Unite and set aside July 7, 2011!!!  There will be plenty of Fun stuff to do that day!!  A meeting, set up by Signal Department Trainer Paul, was held today with Signal Crew members and NMRA 2011 Convention organizers at the CSRM.  The discussion was held in an effort to define in more detail what the Signal Department's role will be in the presentations anticipate to be provided for the NMRA Convention scheduled for July in Sacramento.  The meeting was very productive.  The presentation by the Signal Department will be in two parts.  Part One a formal presentation in the West Theatre of the CSRM starting at 8:00 AM.  Per Paul:  "Purpose of Part One is to educate, show and explain the regulations and equipment that Train Modeler might be interested in knowing in order to make a more detailed model."  The "purpose of Part Two is to re-enforce, through visual and physical contact, the information discussed in Part One."  Part Two is proposed to be a train ride to SSRR Grade Crossing Warning Signal Systems for a look at the actual equipment.  Since we have equipment dating from 1938/39 to the present we can present a broad range of different types of equipment to model.  Presentations and explanations will be made out on the line by Signal Crew personnel.  It has been suggested to facilitate development of small and manageable groups of convention goers during Part Two tables will be set up at each crossing with displays of various signal equipment.  Signal personnel will man these displays and explain what the displays are.  We are contacting our Signalero friends in the Niles Canyon Signal Department to see if they are interested in being a part of the Parts.  Maybe the Signal Engineer from PSVRR too???  So....!  Mark you calendars!  Set aside July 7th as a free day for you so you can help out and be a part of the Parts of this great opportunity!  Contact Signal Trainer Paul, Signal Maintainer Dave or Signal Engineer Dale.  Note:  See New News: December 1, 2010 for reference.

JANUARY 17, 2011

SECOND GENERAL MEETING THIS WEDNESDAY

The second session of the 2011 Annual General Meeting is scheduled for this Wednesday, January 19th beginning at 6:00 PM in the East Theater of the CSRM.  If you missed the first session be sure to attend this one.  Don't miss this years Signal Department's PowerPoint presentation by the Signal Engineer.

LAST CHANCE TO TAKE PART 214 TRAINING FOR 2011!

The second and last session for MOW's Part 214 Roadway Worker Safety Training will take place beginning at 9:00 AM this Saturday, January 22nd in the East Theater of the CSRM.  If you missed the first session on January 12th and want to work on the right of way you must take this training.  Be Safe and Be There!!!

JANUARY 16, 2011

MONTHLY INSPECTIONS COMPLETED TODAY

A five man Signal Crew consisting of Signal Maintainers Dave and Jim and Student Signal Maintainers Randy, Bill and Joe completed the Sutterville Monthly and 4-Year Relay Tests and Inspections and the Monthly Inspections at Q Street and R Street today.  All systems passed.   Thanks crew!!  Well Done!!!

JANUARY 12, 2011

MONTHLY, QUARTERLY AND 4-YEAR RELAY TESTING STARTED TODAY

A Signal Crew of nine members (Chuck, Bill, Dan, Joe, Jim, Paul, Randy, Al and Dale) conducted Monthly, Quarterly and 4-Year Relay Tests and Inspections today at Capitol Mall, Broadway, Front Street and Sutterville Road.  Q Street and R Street were not done.  Sutterville Road inspections were started but not completed as the crew had to stop work in order to be on time for Part 214 Training this evening.  The Crew assembled at the Signal Shop at 9:00 AM.  4-Year Relay Testing training was then provided for the Crew by Signal Trainer Paul.  A tenth potential crew member, Paul G., attended the training.  Welcome Paul G.!!  After Training, Beans and Briefing the fun began with separate Crews at Capitol Mall, Broadway and Front Street.  All systems passed.  The back up inspection day, Sunday, January 16th will now be put in play to complete Sutterville Road and do the Q Street and R Street Inspections.  Thanks everybody for your participation!!!!!  GOOD JOB!!

JANUARY 10, 2011

PART 214 ROADWAY WORKER TRAINING TO BE PROVIDED BY MOW

Part 214 Roadway Worker Safety Training is being provided by MOW again this year.  There will be two sessions.  Session one is on Wednesday evening, January 12th beginning at 6:00 PM.  Session two is on Saturday, January 22nd beginning at 9:00 AM.  All Signal Department personnel that anticipate working on the right of way must take this training.  If you do not take the training you will not be allowed to work with a Signal Crew on the right of way.  Mark Your Calendars Now!!!

MONTHLY, QUARTERLY AND 4-YEAR RELAY TESTS AND INSPECTIONS SCHEDULED

Reminder!  Monthly Inspections at all crossings, Quarterly Inspections at all crossings except Sutterville Road and 4-Year Relay Tests at Capitol Mall, Broadway, Front Street and Sutterville Road are scheduled for this Wednesday, January 12th.  The first couple of hours will be devoted to 4-Year Relay Test procedure re-training provided by Signal Trainer Paul.  A large Signal Crew has been scheduled by Signal Scheduler Dave.  If you are not sure if you are scheduled contact Dave.  See you there and bring your beans!!!

JANUARY 8, 2011

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND FIRST TRAIN WELL ATTENDED

The 2011 General Meeting and Annual First Train of the Year was well attended today.  The meeting started at 9:00 AM in the East Theater of the CSRM with Manager of Railroad Operations Dick kicking things off.  The first speaker was Museum Director Paul who spoke of the highlights of 2010 and what is to come in 2011 and beyond.  Sadly he reminded us that the GR10 locomotive will time out and have to be taken out of service early in 2012, for overhaul, and no replacement plan is yet in place.  Hopefully by that time the CSRM and CSRMF management will find a way to have a steam locomotive in service in 2012.  Several speakers spoke from the various crafts including Signal Engineer Dale providing a PowerPoint presentation about 2010 and 2011 Signal Department activities.  After the meeting the attendees moved to the turntable where North Western Pacific locomotive 112 had been positioned as the background for this years annual group crew photo.  Then, after the photo was taken, they got on the First Train of the Year (It was Cold in those cars [except for those lucky few in the dinning car]) and went for a ride to Baths and back.  Refreshments were served by a great crew, as usual, and all had a great time.  Thanks to everyone who made this a super crew day!!!!

JANUARY 6, 2011

4-YEAR RELAY TEST TRAINING WAS FUN TODAY

Signal Trainer Paul provided 4-Year Relay Test training today at the Signal Shop.  It was a cold day but Student Signal Maintainers Bill and Joe attended as will as Signal Engineer Dale.  It was a full and successful five hours.  Several types and styles of relays were demonstrated and we again remembered, finally, that POR plug in relays have different input terminals than other plug in relays.....  Good Work Students!!  And...  A Big Thanks to Signal Trainer Paul!!!!!

JANUARY 5, 2011

GENERAL MEETING REMINDER

The 2011 Annual SSRR General Meeting will get underway in three days this coming Saturday, January 8th, starting at 9:00 AM in the East Theater in the CSRM.  The meeting will be held and then the Annual Group Crew Photo will be taken.  Following the photo taking everyone is invited to ride the "First Train Of The Year".  If you can't make the meeting on the 8th there will be another General Meeting on the evening of January 19th beginning at 6:00 PM.  The Signal Engineer will be at both meetings providing a PowerPoint presentation to review Signal Department activities in 2010 and what lies ahead in 2011.  Be sure to attend one of the meetings.

JANUARY 4, 2011

SIGNAL TRAINER TO PROVIDE 4-YEAR RELAY TEST TRAINING

Signal Trainer Paul will be providing 4-Year Relay Test training on Thursday, January 6th starting at 9:00 AM in the Signal Shop.  If you need a refresher or have not participated in 4-Year Relay Testing procedures you are welcome.  See you on the 6th and Thank You Paul!!

JANUARY 3, 2011

STUDENT SIGNAL MAINTAINER JOE VOLUNTEERS TO ORGANIZE SEMAPHORE RESTORATION

The Signal Engineer announced today that Student Signal Maintainer Joe has volunteered to organize and set up the refurbishment of the recently donated semaphore and other equipment the Signal Department has waiting for some tender loving care.  Joe will organize the process of determining what needs to be accomplished, and how it might be done and then, resources available, make it happen.  Joe can use help.  If you would like to volunteer to be a part of the team that restores our Signal Stuff (Shop work mostly) please contact Joe or the Signal Engineer.  Thanks Joe!!!!

JANUARY 1, 2011

!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

JANUARY INSPECTIONS SCHEDULED

Signal Department Scheduler Dave has scheduled all Monthly, Quarterly and 4-Year Relay Inspections for January on Wednesday, January 12th.  Signal personnel assigned are: Al, Bill, Chuck, Jim, Joe and Randy   EICs are:  Paul at Capitol Mall, Q Street and R Street, Jim at Broadway and Sutterville Road and Chuck at Front Street.  Meet at the Signal Shop at 9:00 AM.  Signal Trainer Paul will provide 4-Year Relay Test training to refresh everyone's skills prior to going out on the line. The backup day is Sunday, January 16th if all inspections not completed on the 12th.  Have a Great Day!!!

FOR 2010 NEW NEWS ARCHIVE CLICK HERE

FOR 2009 NEW NEWS ARCHIVE CLICK HERE

FOR 2008 NEW NEWS ARCHIVE CLICK HERE