Photos attached are of Ian Harding standing next to the newly painted 928, The new switch stand for the east end of the service track, Jim Greathouse at the Collinsville train show along with Bob & Kate Hardt.

Thanks to Jim Greathouse and crew for another successful weekend train show in Collinsville. Jim had help from Kary & Barb, Bob & Kate Hardt, Tabernacki, Lawson & myself. Souvenir sales were over $400. Traffic at the table was steady and while we talked to a lot of people who knew about the WF&P we did find quite a few who had not. Many were anxious for the new season to start. With the warmer weather we are also finding that new hits on the WF&P web site have begun to greatly increase.

Today's work crew consisted of 11 members. A very good turnout for a Wednesday. Jim & Jimmy Scott, Brennan (Brennan who??), Errante, Geders, Bitsch, Lorance, Smith, Welch, Owens & Tabernacki. The drive chains were installed on 5205, crosshead slippers were finished for 400, switch points were milled for the new ballast siding switch, and signal housings were painted.

Saturday's group had 14 volunteers. Fritschle, Haack, Ian & Kevin Harding, Hardt, Lawson, Rawls, J & J Scott, Smith, Tabernacki, Welch, Bitsch & myself. This day was the annual clean up the Meramec River day by Missouri DNR. DNR had a 40 cu. yard dumpster which was quickly filled and since they had permission to park it on our back lot we got to dispose of a some trash also. The 928 is really taking shape with it's coat of black paint and the cab plumbing being installed. The Scotts are putting the final touches on the rolling stock. The 400's crosshead is nearing completion and 5205 will soon have it's first test run with the new trucks. Thanks to all who have been participating in the winter work days. A lot has been accomplished.

Jim Strain