George Andrews Wrote:
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> Salem ,OR to Chehalis, WA., is 130 miles one way
> via Interstate 5. I think the fact Mr. Rodgers was
> willing to travel this distance indicates his
> desire to support this operation. As noted, he
> could have driven a lesser distance to Garibaldi.
> Those who spend their money on a historic train
> ride also support the cause.
> First impressions mean a lot, as I experienced on
> my first visit to the Oaks Park Christmas trains.
> My wife & I were all set to buy tickets to ride,
> until the Power - @#$%& Security Gal ran us off
> the tracks. We were on the edge of the ballast
> taking pictures of the SP & S 700,while it was
> standing still during loading, when she told us we
> were " too close to the tracks ". That she took us
> to task for this, while others were standing
> between the rails with their children, was enough
> to convince us that they didn't want our
> patronage. We haven't been back.

George;

It is obvious that you are referring to our Manager, Safety & Regulatory Compliance Ms. Kelly Anable. Ms. Anable is just doing her job continually on the lookout for conditions that could compromise Oregon Pacific's 20+ year record of NO REPORTABLE FRA ACCIDENTS OR INJURIES.

OPR allows ORHF to use our facilities at NO CHARGE (other than track maintenance) and although ORHF provides their own insurance for the event, an accident will draw OPR's insurance and attorneys into the fracas. OPR, as a freight carrier supporting four families, has an obligation to the public to "protect them from themselves", so to speak and to assure a safe workplace for our employees.

I personally apologize and am sorry that you were offended and urge you to support the ORHF Holiday Express in this year and in the future.

Dick Samuels, President & General Manager
Oregon Pacific Raiolroad

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