I did not try to bad-mouth Pentrx with that post. If it was taken that way, I am truly sorry for offending anyone with the mere partial mention of the Pentrex name. I understand the quality of work and prep time to coordinate and edit a fantastic product, such as their videos. I have purchased many of Pentrex's videos over the years, and will admit that the only reason I still have a VCR is because of my many train videos.

I know that the Vancouver, BC Channel 9 has a helicopter that cruises during the evening news and shows live pictures of events. Tonight was spectacular as there was a massive bog fire that the crew hovered around. There were other helicopters that were dropping water from nearby sources to help put it out. Because of the technology that this chopper has, they can stay well out of harms way and zoom in clearly from over a mile. There was even a time when it was being used to follow a stolen car. It was the same kind as the police helicopter that was grounded, and did a fantastic job of stealth persuit.

I don't know if any broadcast stations in Seattle use helicopters equipped this way for ENG. If they do, then I don't know if they're for rent. If Pentrex utilizes cameras like this for their recordings of events by helicopter, then I should have blamed rich foamers.

I own a copy of the Roger's Pass grand opening video. This was made in the mid '80s, and is mostly shot by air because of the remoteness of the line. It is also park land, and access by vehicle or foot is not tolerated. The helicopter used for shooting is blowing newly planted trees around, and appears to be real close (like 50') to hillsides, tracks, tunnels, and moving trains. Very dramatic shots, and not a railfan in sight.

almo