Update by Jason R:

“July 6-7, 2024; even though the Chinese Zodiac lists 2024 as the “Year of the Dragon”, Fletch and his crew continued the “Year of the Cab,” and pushed forward this last weekend with efforts on the D&R #9’s cab for restoration.

Frank F., Steve P., Mike L., Jay S. and the team’s 4-legged friend “Roger” pulled first shift on Saturday July 6 where they focused on the backhead.  While Roger managed Steve, Mike, and Jay on the ground, Frank pulled up his sleeves and got the dirty work done.  He made quick work of the backhead and interior cab getting excess dirt and debris cleaned off to create a better surface for paint application.  While Frank was playing in the dirt, Steve received a wonderful Christmas present from Ms. Judy G., who graciously cleaned up the original back windows of the #9 cab and wrapped them up in a beautiful package for safe keeping until they can be re-installed.  Merry Christmas Judy.  Lol.  The guys on Saturday also met with Andy S. to coordinate moving the #9 to a few possible locations for painting the cab.  Thanks to Andy and the guys for doing that leg work.   

The second shift came in on Sunday July 7 with Fletch, Jason, and Tyler D.  Also known as the “A-Team” (this may or may-not be disputed by first shift), Fletch and this team were poised to continue preliminary work on the pilot re-build.  However, that was quickly tabled after completing a planned meeting with Chris B. to discuss the upcoming paint work.  We identified enough small items that needed removal or work prior to painting, that we felt it best to shift our focus back to the cab for the day. With that, we removed several items to expose more of the metal surface of the cab and allow for better contact with primer and paint.  We also conducted some detail work on the cab floor and under the cab to remove additional dirt and debris. 

It was good hard work both days, but the MVP award for the weekend will have to go to Frank F. who worked in the warmest and dirtiest conditions by far. Roger came in a close second for MVP, but ultimately received Honorable Mention.  Many thanks Frank, and to everyone that helped this weekend.

With that, Fletcher is beyond EXCITED to announce our next work session currently slated for the weekend of August 10 and 11.  This will be the culminating event of our year, and we hope to finally get the first coats of paint on the #9 herself.  We are praying for a safe and successful move by the operations crew along with good weather that weekend, and that will hopefully set us up for success next month.  Fletch hopes you stop by to check it out or lend a hand.”