557 Mechanical Department Volunteers are making daily progress preparing Locomotive 557 for a complete asbestos abatement. Central Environmental Incorporated has been advising as to what access is needed for their crew to be productive. As parts are removed they are labeled for later identification as to Engineer's right side or Fireman's left side components. The call is out for 20 foot containers for secure storage of these items until needed again. We need to clear the shop floor for the continuing effort.

Robert Franzen of Steam Services of America is preparing his initial report following a three day inspection assisted by the 557 Volunteers. When the boiler is exposed and cleaned he will be back to complete the next level of inspection. In the interim we are responding to his request, such as measuring the crown sheet radius. Mr. Franzen is willing to respond to our calls for consultation, I think he likes this project.

Regular 557 Progress Reports will be posted at alaskarails.org 557 pages.

Thanks to all who are contributing to the rebirth of 557.

Patrick J. Durand, President Engine 557 Restoration Company

Just a few of the comments cut from e-mails following the August 22, 2012 Meet and Greet at the 557 Engine House:

Hello Patrick,
I was impressed with the program put together last night. It was good to see people getting dirty working on the old girl. I got your list and I will be forwarding to those I think may have some of what we need. I will let you know how we make out.
Thx,Scott Alaska West Express

All,
I just wanted to say thank you to all of you, for allowing me to be there and part of the team. It was awesome to work with each of you and I am really looking forward to many more days rubbing shoulders, getting dirty and seeing her transform before our eyes. We all have a great common goal, we all want to work safe, and we all wanted to work together. We are going to be very blessed in 557's return. I can't wait to return...
Art Chase, ( 557 Mechanical Crew, Volunteer from North Pole, Alaska)

Jeff,
It was good to finally meet you. I'm very impressed with what you, Pat and the group have been able to do so far with the 557. I just wanted to thank you for taking me to the airport and for the salmon and blueberry jelly you gave me. The salmon was very good with crackers as you suggested! Let me know if you have any questions before I get back?
Take care,
Robert Robert Franzen
Steam Services of America
55 John Allman Lane
Sylva, NC 28779

Hi Pat,
Thanks for the invite to the kick-off meeting Wednesday. If you can use an “old” volunteer as the schedule rolls together, I will try to add some value and not get in the way! I am not a machinist or very good at welding but I can help with electrical things, turn a wrench or sweep the floor, clean & paint, etc.
Ken Elmore.

Pat
Thanks so much for the 557 hat. I feel honored to be a part of this historic event. I'm gone till next tue. for moose hunting. I look forward to working out a schedule of time and tools. I planted a bug in my ex-bosses ear about using the grove manlift. He is somewhat of a worry wart about liabilities though.
Larry Erickson

Pat -
As always, great job of taking charge and rallying all the troops behind you. Very thorough and affective presentation tonight! The hats do look pretty cool.
Bruce Headle

Hi Pat,
Great job yesterday evening! I've attached a group photo and would love your help with names so we can identify folks when we post it on Facebook.
Anne
Anne Richards Remick
Program Officer
The Alaska Community Foundation
3201 C Street, Suite 110
Anchorage, AK 99503