Big Engine

My Dad, Ed, worked for the Union Pacific Railroad as a brakeman and a conductor. One of the many benefits of working for UP–free train rides for family anywhere the line traveled. I vividly remember the night my Dad got me a ride in the engine of a train bound for Butte, Montana.  I remember to this day the roar and frightening power of the engine. We were hurtling down the track at 70 miles an hour, climbing Minida Pass and creeping past DuBois. As loud as those diesel powered motors were this steam engine put it to shame.  The Living Legend No. 844 was in Boise this past weekend.  844 was the last Steam Locomotive built for the Union Pacific Railroad – delivered in 1944. This was a high speed passenger engine. Fortunately 844 was saved from the scrap yard and placed in special service. The engine brought back many memories for me. Judging by Hank, and the many children who were there, they will not soon forget the giant black machine.

If you are curious, the locomotive weighs 907,980 pounds or 454 tons including the engine and tender. 114 feet in length, this 14 wheeled pulling machine carried 23,500 gallons of water and 6,200 gallons of no. 5 oil. The wheel that we are standing by is 80 inches in diameter and transfers 63,800 lbs of tractive power.  Thanks to Megan for motivating me to make a trip to see 844.

I attended the Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy annual meeting.  This group provides factual non-partisan analysis of fiscal and tax policy issues to our legislative leadership, journalists, and the public. I  encourage you to check out this resource as we all look for reliable, non-biased information sources.  Lauren Necochea began the meeting with a tribute to Marilyn Shuler, a beloved mentor for many and a human rights leader in Idaho. Shuler made a significant difference in Idaho and the quote from Maya Angelou I felt was perfect — “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style”. It would have been your great good fortune to have met and known Marilyn.

Do it with style.    Mike