My apologies, Q, for a poorly-written post. My remarks were intended to apply to those who fantasize about restoring and operating said locomotives, and those who would work on them but don't know anything about it.


Q Wrote:
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> Excellent Suggestion!
>
> Then, when only the elite experts such as
> yourselves, are allowed to come anywhere near a
> steam engine, why would the likes of UP or others
> bother to put on the show. Why pay for the
> publicity if no one is allowed to pay attention to
> it anyway. Why would anyone donate for the 4449
> if they weren't going to be allowed the pleasure
> of standing at her side to drink in the whole
> experience - the sites , the smells, the sounds,
> the rumbles....
>
> It has long been a notorious reality, that the
> railfan community is brimm full of knowitalls.
> And of course, those that think they know
> everything annoy those of us who do! But how
> could it possibly matter if they don't? Or if you
> don't? Or I don't? So What! Big deal!
>
> All that really matters is that those responsible
> for the operation and maintenance of these
> magnificent beasts do, in fact, know what they are
> doing. And as long as they are willing and able
> to continue to do it, dunderhead knownothings such
> as myself (and my family) will continue enjoy it -
> up close and personal (might even touch it - oh
> my).... and even help fund it - or not.