April 22, 2023; We had our first volunteer session on the D&R #9 last week, for the 2023 season. My apologies that a notice was not put out for our first get together, but life got busy on me, and I didn’t get it submitted in time.  I will try to stay on top of it for future events. That is also the reason I am getting this update out so late. 

We had a successful and safe session along with “somewhat cooperative” weather.  That included sun, wind, cold, some light rain, and of course snow flurries at times. We had about 7 volunteers our first weekend, which was a great turn out.  We also welcomed our first new volunteer in a long time, and I want to thank Tyler for all his help Saturday.  We hope he continues to join us on future sessions with the #9. And a big thank you to the usual volunteers for returning for yet another year; Steve Pahl, Mike Laabs, Frank Fisher, Jay Slinde, and of course our lead volunteer, Fletcher.  I hope I didn’t miss anyone.

After a long winter, we uncovered the Locomotive (although mother nature had mostly uncovered it for us by this time). She was looking really good and dry, and ready for this upcoming year.  We also got a crew on the front of the locomotive, removed the Dyno, and checked it into storage for future preservation. The tender was looking good as well, and was right where we left it.  One of the biggest tasks we accomplished this weekend was planning and coordination.  This tends to be a main tasker of ours at the beginning of the year, and for good reason.  We also met with Chris Burdick to discuss big events such as the stenciling of the Tender, and the next goal for painting on the Locomotive.  All very exciting topics, that we hope will soon become a reality.        

It is looking like Saturday May 20 will be our next volunteer session on the #9.  I will put out another announcement to confirm as we approach that date.  Again, thanks for everyone’s help this last weekend.  – Jason & Fletcher Reiman.