The 'Corfid Express'

[doctorpilsxhp]

I originally posted this topic in Jessie-Joe's "Crazy things done aquiring Lightfoot merchandise". Maybe off topic?? No response at all. (at least tell me to "drop off" if appropriate.)

Perhaps I'll repost here in hopes of being told that I am totally crazy, or maybe some other nut out there can dream too.

-Originally posted 05-11-2006 11:27 AM

For Gord's 70th birthday, let's all save up and meet in British Columbia. (still two years to prepare)

We could book a 'pullman' dome car or two and the "Corfid Express" could "chug" easterly throgh the magnificent rockies. We could be "drinkin' bad whiskey" (or not) while paying homage to the "lackies" who lost their lives constructing this unrecognized wonder of the world.

The tremendous talent in our "Corfid Family" could help us belt out 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy', 'Steel Rail Blues', 'Alberta Bound' as well as all the other gems - then do it all over again!! Mile after 'Clickety Clack' mile!

Talent? Why not video tape and edit the trip to be presented to Gord after we pull into Union Station and march up Yonge Street to Massey Hall.

Maybe some of us with better connections could even get some of the Pro's Gord has infuenced to do a short video spot to be mixed into the project (Ian & Sylvia to Aengus Finnan. I even hear that Elvis has recently been seen in Michigan)

(for some of us rather "long in the tooth" it might be our "last hurrah"!)

What 'd'ya think?

I figure it is between that or we all pitch in for a dozen roses to fling onto the stage at intermission.

(shhhh!!!don't let him know what we decide)

Yuri

[Yuri]

I originally posted this topic in Jessie-Joe's "Crazy things done aquiring Lightfoot merchandise". Maybe off topic?? No response at all. (at least tell me to "drop off" if appropriate.)

Perhaps I'll repost here in hopes of being told that I am totally crazy, or maybe some other nut out there can dream too.

-Originally posted 05-11-2006 11:27 AM

For Gord's 70th birthday, let's all save up and meet in British Columbia. (still two years to prepare)

We could book a 'pullman' dome car or two and the "Corfid Express" could "chug" easterly throgh the magnificent rockies. We could be "drinkin' bad whiskey" (or not) while paying homage to the "lackies" who lost their lives constructing this unrecognized wonder of the world.

The tremendous talent in our "Corfid Family" could help us belt out 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy', 'Steel Rail Blues', 'Alberta Bound' as well as all the other gems - then do it all over again!! Mile after 'Clickety Clack' mile!

Talent? Why not video tape and edit the trip to be presented to Gord after we pull into Union Station and march up Yonge Street to Massey Hall.

Maybe some of us with better connections could even get some of the Pro's Gord has infuenced to do a short video spot to be mixed into the project (Ian & Sylvia to Aengus Finnan. I even hear that Elvis has recently been seen in Michigan)

(for some of us rather "long in the tooth" it might be our "last hurrah"!)

What 'd'ya think?

I figure it is between that or we all pitch in for a dozen roses to fling onto the stage at intermission.

(shhhh!!!don't let him know what we decide)

Yuri

[brink-]

Fabulous idea Yuri, I have no connections for you though - but Char has an "in" with that Aengus fella.

[Jesse Joe]

Great idea Yuri, it's like you say we have 2 years to prepare... :)

[Jesse Joe]

Great idea Yuri, it's like you say we have 2 years to prepare... :)

[2Much2Lose]

Yuri, I love the idea! Two years seems like a long time away, but sure can fly by. I'm definitly going to keep this in mind.
Jenney

[Jenney]

Yuri, I love the idea! Two years seems like a long time away, but sure can fly by. I'm definitly going to keep this in mind.
Jenney

[charlene]

it sure would be a dream come true-to get out west and see the country by train.....and the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow would be right back here at home at The Church of Gord....

[charlene]

it sure would be a dream come true-to get out west and see the country by train.....and the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow would be right back here at home at The Church of Gord....

[SilverHeels]

yuri, what a great idea. Count me in! Let's do it!

[Jesse Joe]

Originally posted by charlene:
it sure would be a dream come true-to get out west and see the country by train.....and the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow would be right back here at home at The Church of Gord.... Like Ed McMahon once told Johnny Carson, "You haven't seen anything, until you see the Canadian Rockies by train."...

[Jesse Joe]

Originally posted by charlene:
it sure would be a dream come true-to get out west and see the country by train.....and the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow would be right back here at home at The Church of Gord.... Like Ed McMahon once told Johnny Carson, "You haven't seen anything, until you see the Canadian Rockies by train."...

[Betty]

Count me in, this sounds wonderful!

[Ginny]

Wow. These are the kinds of things I usually dream about but it sure is a cool idea. Even though I live here in those wild majestic mountains I sure would love that trek. Hopefully the interest will generate. Ron J.

[Peter Bro10]

Yuri,
At first I thought this was just a bit crazy, but the more I think about it the cooler it sounds!!! (crazy is just a relative term anyhow, right?!).

I was working on saleing my wife on a idea of a trip to Toronto, Massey Hall for a GL concert in the spring of "08' (tentative date here).... Now I gotta float a train trip across Canada ( I'm shaking my head here) past my wife.
It would go something like this... "oh dear, remember that trip to Toronto I was talking about??? what'ya say we make it a bit bigger??? say a train ride for west to east... with a few of those corfid folks I've been mentioning?" This isn't going to be an easy sell!!

Well, I have to look at time frames, how long (in terms of days,) would I need. I have very limited vacation time, and getting just one week would be difficult. two weeks would take an act of Congress ( I'm not sure what the Canadian equivlant of that would be)!!!
Put me squarely in the "Maybe" column!!!
It'll be a fantastic time if we can pull it off!!!

[Peter Bro10]

I'm much like timetraveler in the post above... This would be a first for me in all the ways mentioned, still the idea grows on me daily.

I need a rough sketch of timeframes because I'd have to start saving vacation time and money... but mostly vacation time. (I'd have to start that "act of Congress" ASAP if I were to pull this off)

This is such a cool idea, Yuri!

As some of you know, I've been kicking around the idea to coming to Toronto (tentatively Spring "08") to take in a Lightfoot concert at Massey Hall.... God willing of course. Then I added a stop at Christian Island, thanks to the inspiration of Gahoendoe. Then I added a stop in my ancestorial homeland of Nova Scotia.

All of a sudden it strikes me.... I can make more than one trip! A moment of brilliance!!!! lol

[Gitchigumee]

Yes, I'm in. I want to do it! How awesome!

[Janice]

This is a great idea, Yuri!!! I love it!

[Gitchigumee]

Yuri, would we leave from Vancouver?? Details, details!!

[Yuri]

For years I have wanted to ride the steel rails across Canada from coast to coast. Sadly this dream is no longer possible as the route became a financial liability and short sighted politicians were quick to dismantle sections before exploring creative solutions.

While trying to find alternatives to counting perforations in hospital ceiling tiles, I came across a 'Canadian Geographic' television program where hostess Valerie Pringle rode the rails from Vancouver eastward while chatting it up with vacationers and highlighting the incredible beauty of the land.

The tunnels, the trestles, the mountains, trees and waterfalls! Rivers and Rapids! CRT came to mind! Perhaps I won't be able to join you in a wheel chair but what a perfect way for Corfidians to celebrate Gord's 70th.

Crazy I thought. Perhaps so crazy that I'd be told to find a Boathouse on Lake Couchaching that had a short pier and take a long walk. But the idea persisted.

There are many more talented members of this group than myself who would be able to make this dream a possibility, but here is a start...

The passenger trains of the Canadian National Railroad (CN or CNR) are operated by the subsiduary called VIA Rail.

Their web site is not all that user friendly for asking questions of our complexity so I'll contact them by the 'snail mail' address provided.

Now don't let the following "ball park" figures scare you for several reasons.

(a) we would have some two years to save up for expenses.

(b) the figures are based on published individual rates and I'm sure we could negotiate a better deal with a larger group of travellers.

(c) This would for many of us be a trip of a lifetime as the train trip price would include sleeping facilities, scenic stops with incredible beauty, our own entertainment, a chance to strengthen old friendships and to make new ones. (sadly, like the railroad, many of us aging 'Corfidians' may not be around long enough to have another chance at such an adventure - and may God preserve Gord's health as well!) Take it from my personal experience. Life can change forever in an instant. Enjoy the moment to the fullest!

The highlight of course would be to see Gord in concert around his 70th and perhaps to present him with a heartfelt video of his most dedicated fans living out his tunes.

The most expensive one way trip from Vancouver to Toronto would provide a private sleeping room and would cost $1269.88 CND which would be about $1116 US. Now, before you call me as "loony" as a Canadian $1.00 coin, that would work out to $558/year or about $1.50 US per day. So, if you can give up your Starbucks double double extra foamy latte each day, you may well be on your way.

Now, the same trip (per person) but sleeping in an upper berth would cost $841.64 CND or about $740 US. That is $340 per year or less than $1.00 a day.

There are even other options and again, group rates might help us significantly. Hiring our own pullman car might be feasable if reducing costs.

Getting to Vancouver is yet another problem. Those overseas can calculate their own best deals.

Just for an example, a flight from NYC (JFK) to Vancouver could cost as much as $269 (taxes and charges included) for a direct flight or as low as $218 {charges included) for a flight with two stop overs.

As this coast to coast flight should be the most financially demanding, those on the west coast and in between should find deals proportional to their distance. (air prices quoted from Orbitz). Of course there will be the price of travel home from Toronto, the price of the concert ticket(s), accomodation while in town (Delta Chelsea's Lightfoot rate?) and of course food. Moose steaks, fried beaver tails, Canada Goose au jus (just kidding).

So, for probably less than two grand per person you could spend sleepless nights bouncing around the tracks in a snowy Canadian winter, or waste it on drinks with umbrellas served on some tropical beach getting sand in your shorts and developing a skin melenoma.

I started out sharing a dream. Never thought it would get this much interest. If it never gets further than this, it has been a blast dreaming about it while studying those ceiling tiles.

The late Canadian historian Pierre Burton wrote a two volume epic work encompassing the construction of the Canadian National Railroad. History that reads like a novel! So don't let the word "history" scare you.

Check out

'The National Dream' (1970)
'The Last Spike' (1971)

I'll keep you infomed as I get info.

Dream on!

Yuri

[Brannah]

I also saw the Valerie Pringle special. They started in Vancouver and went through Jasper instead of Banff. It was a great program with lots of great scenery.
This sure sounds interesting!

[brink-]

I, for one just can't imagine going on this trip without the originator. I am betting that we would be able to figure out a way to accomodate your wheelchair.
I think it is a fabulous idea, I once went from Minneapolis to Kalispell Montana by train and loved every second of it. That was when they had the 'viewing" cars and you had to pay extra to get up to the top. I even checked into a train when I was going to Orillia, but the schedule was as such that I wouldn't be able to get back by train.
You know the Canadian Railroad might really like your idea.
You have a mission now. I really don't think the price is too bad, how long would the trip be?
Deb

[johnfowles]

Very imaginative Yuri.I too would have to sell the idea to Susan
It is quite a journey and one I made in 1966 with my family having driven from Montreal to Vancouver in 10 days
we also use CNR (Canadian Pacific had at that time just abandoned their equivalent that went through Banff)
Som we got to spend 24 hours in Jasper and nearby Maligne Lake/Canyon
I dropped my camera into the Canyon so this was one of the last batch of slides I took that day
http://www.johnfowles.org.uk/trains/6782.jpg
CNR Diesel number 6782 in the Rockies at Jasper Alberta in July 1966
A scan of the slide that I have previously displayed in a train topic at:-
http://www.corfid.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=001659#000012

[johnfowles]

Very imaginative Yuri.I too would have to sell the idea to Susan
It is quite a journey and one I made in 1966 with my family having driven from Montreal to Vancouver in 10 days
we also use CNR (Canadian Pacific had at that time just abandoned their equivalent that went through Banff)
Som we got to spend 24 hours in Jasper and nearby Maligne Lake/Canyon
I dropped my camera into the Canyon so this was one of the last batch of slides I took that day
http://www.johnfowles.org.uk/trains/6782.jpg
CNR Diesel number 6782 in the Rockies at Jasper Alberta in July 1966
A scan of the slide that I have previously displayed in a train topic at:-
http://www.corfid.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=001659#000012

[charlene]

David Newland (performer and emcee at the Lightfoot trib. shows) took that trip with Valerie Pringle and wrote the music for the show. He has his diary of the journey on The Canadian at:
http://www.staples.ca/ENG/Catalog/cat_sku.asp?CatIds=&webid=35662&affixedcode=WW

[charlene]

David Newland (performer and emcee at the Lightfoot trib. shows) took that trip with Valerie Pringle and wrote the music for the show. He has his diary of the journey on The Canadian at:
http://www.staples.ca/ENG/Catalog/cat_sku.asp?CatIds=&webid=35662&affixedcode=WW

[SilverHeels]

Yuri, we do NOT do this without you. This is not negotiable. You will be there. In fact, you have to organise the event. I'll help if I can but I am several thousand miles away. Let me know. We can do this, guys, it would so unbelievable. I'm really excited.
:D

[charlene]

Yuri will make it...no problem...
http://www.viarail.ca/planner/en_plan_beso_mobi.html

[charlene]

Yuri will make it...no problem...
http://www.viarail.ca/planner/en_plan_beso_mobi.html

[Yuri]

Humility: "The moment you realize that you have it - you have lost it..."

Yet I am continuously humbled by the tremendous support this group has offered to me on various levels.

The Corfid Express? Well, that is still some time away and things may still change for me.

I never thought I would envy those people who could scratch their knees without ever bending over. (in evolutionary terms, I always thought they climbed out of the trees long after the rest of us did.) As a paraplegic they can transfer themselves from wheelchair to 'wherever' by their own effort. A thin, lanky compact build best suits this ability.

I, on the otherhand, resmble a 'cour de bois' (runner of the woods) - a stout voyager almost as wide as I was tall. I could carry my own weight on a canoe portage as historic voyagers did, yet I cannot get myself airborne without a mechanical lift. That inability complicates everything.

I could take the 'Corfid Express'in spirit by 'cyberspace' technology with internet updates and digital photo downloads from you good folks.

It wasn't until recent weeks that I was certain I could even make the Massey concert this year. Exchanging seats for a wheelchair accessable location was only one problem. A wheelchair capable 'taxi' costs about $90 CND one way from my home to Massey. Far from being destitute, it is still an outrageous price for the distance travelled. Only for Gord!

I cannot recall having missed Gord at Massey since moving to the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) some 25 years ago, so it is a pleasure difficult to give up. Regardless, I shall have to re-evaluate this local excursion, this plilgrimage on a year to year basis.

My tremendous thanks goes out to both Char and Jenny amongst others. Without their generous support, encouragement and assistance, I would be be sitting at home this year, whistling Lightfoot tunes to myself in the dark. Thank you, thank you, thank you all!!!

I will be attending this Thursday's concert and hope to meet as many of you as possible. I, no doubt, will be easily recognizable. Pardon me if I don't stand when I meet you...

Always had a love of trains, Canadian history, canoeing, and Lightfoot. (anyone see a common thread here?)

Those of you still not yawning can check out my 'train story' on my canoeing web page below;

http://ca.geocities.com/amatniek@rogers.com/canoe.html

Thanks again,

Yuri

[brink-]

Yuri, I understand the mechanical lift issue. But, after working in the hospitals, ambulance, helping at the nursing home I have been in the situation many times where the mechanical lift was "unavailable" for whatever reason. It sounds like you will have a trainload of helpers, don't give up the dream....you have just inspired the rest of us. There won't be a trip without you. You think you might need a helping hand? Look beside you, that's where we all are.
Can't wait to meet you, Thursday.

[brink-]

I checked out your JFK link, very interesting. I have had my own thoughts on it and wonder if we will ever know the truth.

[Gitchigumee]

Yuri, I agree with all of the above who say we can't take this trip without you. 2 years away--imagine the possibilities of what 24 months from now could bring! I obviously do not know your circumstances, but I know that if you were to start soon(with our help and the help of professional health care people), you could perhaps make that lift you speak of unnecessary, if you catch my drift. If weight is the only issue here (because I don't believe just being in a wheelchair would be a reason to exclude you from taking this trip) then what better motivation than taking this trip with us? What do you think, Yuri? I want you to come, and so do the others. I am really, totally, seriously, and absolutely going to do this--alone if I have to, and I'm actually fantasizing about Gord and his band joining our group, once our plans begin to develop. It's going to be incredible! WE WANT YOU AND NEED YOU!! What do you say?

[Peter Bro10]

I'd like to ditto Gitchigumee here!!! I was thinking, prior to reading the above post by Gitchigumee, that I'd make this trip solo if I had to! and lo and behold, someone beats me to the punch! (scary how we sometimes think alike)
Someone once said "where there is a will, there is a way!" easier said than done, true. But some of lifes most memoriable events come the uneasy way.

There, unfortunatly, is no way for me to make Massey this year... I gag as I type that.
But the really strange thing is that what really pains me is that I'm missing meeting you, Yuri, and the other corfidians! I long to meet you guys as much, perhaps more, than Gord. Imagine that! Taking in a show with you guys would just be too cool!

Switching gears here...
I checked out your web site... very nice! bunches there to keep going back for. Some canoeing stories for another time.

[Gitchigumee]

23.5 months to go....????

[Yuri]

Still not derailed?

Continue to wait for 'snail mail' correspondence from VIA headquarters in Montreal. (too much to explain over VIA's small e-mail window)

"there was a time in this fair land when the Corfid dream had begun - When the wild, enthusiastic Lightheads anticipated having fun...

Long before the flight, and long before the deal, when the green backs and 'loonies*' challenged us to make it real"

(with tremendous apologies to Gordon Lightfoot)


*'loonies' a term for a Canuk $1.00 coin for those
of you who are "Canadiana challenged"

http://img349.imageshack.us/img349/2069/image2mc5.jpg

Yuri

[SilverHeels]

Can't wait ... this is really a dream trip!

[Station Master]

the little engine that could:)

great concept Yuri!

i missed this year's CPR train go by:

http://www8.cpr.ca/cms/English/General+Public/Holiday+Train/default.htm

[jj]

the little engine that could:)

great concept Yuri!

i missed this year's CPR train go by:

http://www8.cpr.ca/cms/English/General+Public/Holiday+Train/default.htm

[Station Master]

i think Gordon would be 'on board' with this idea, also:)

http://www.charstamp.notlong.com

char, we should have added this at the U of T gallery, eh? then again, copyright issues i'm sure

pics, video, audio = red tape

lol

[jj]

i think Gordon would be 'on board' with this idea, also:)

http://www.charstamp.notlong.com

char, we should have added this at the U of T gallery, eh? then again, copyright issues i'm sure

pics, video, audio = red tape

lol

[Yuri]

Beautiful idea and great artwork!

Not sure if Canada Post is the best vehicle to honour Gord. Sometimes it seems that the mail is still delivered by canoe and dog sled. On the other hand, that is SO Canadian that it may be appropriate.

Unike the U.S., Canadian postal workers have the right to strike but unlike their American counterparts, "Going Postal" is reserved for their customers.
Example Below;

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/5065/canadapostwo7.jpg

One last issue. My understanding is that, other than the Queen, anyone appearing on a Canadian Postage Stamp must be deceaced. So let's postpone that honour for some time to come.

Other than that jj, all I can say is FANTASTIC!

Yuri

[charlene]

Oscar Peterson is alive and on a Canadian stamp...it's Gord's turn now: here's a piece of art from the Exhibit that was held during Massey..Victoria Wallace is the artist and I am the proud owner...Gord wanted it but it was already sold!
C'mon to Whitby to see it Gord!
lol
I will be looking into the details that Canada Post requires to get a LIGHTFOOT stamp on every letter posted in Canada!
lol
For now this will do:
http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/5268/stampportrait002qv8.jpg

[charlene]

Oscar Peterson is alive and on a Canadian stamp...it's Gord's turn now: here's a piece of art from the Exhibit that was held during Massey..Victoria Wallace is the artist and I am the proud owner...Gord wanted it but it was already sold!
C'mon to Whitby to see it Gord!
lol
I will be looking into the details that Canada Post requires to get a LIGHTFOOT stamp on every letter posted in Canada!
lol
For now this will do:
http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/5268/stampportrait002qv8.jpg

[Yuri]

Sorry Char,

Yes, there were some exceptions made but Oscar Peterson, a Mississauga resident, was not who I was thinking of. Who else???

Let's petition Canada Post for this honour! Char can lead the charge!

Have to be careful when putting the image of former politicians on stamps. People often don't know which side of the stamp to spit on!

Yuri

[charlene]

Oscar is the first and only LIVE person on a Canadian stamp...other than the Queen....
so far...
I will get all Canada Post info etc. in January....

[charlene]

Oscar is the first and only LIVE person on a Canadian stamp...other than the Queen....
so far...
I will get all Canada Post info etc. in January....

[ELizabeth]

I love your idea Yuri and if it happens rest assured I will be on that train. As far as your special needs are concerned I am quite sure that there will be enough of us to help you. Is there anything I can do to help get this thing organized? By the way, can I assume from your "last hurrah" that you are a John Stewart fan? Anyway , it's so good to back on the Corfid line. To all a Happy Holiday!

[CanadaGirl38]

John Stewart fan? Any and all speak up! Have been following him since pretty much the beginning. Top notch songwriter.

[fezo]

John Stewart fan? Any and all speak up! Have been following him since pretty much the beginning. Top notch songwriter.

[ELizabeth]

Fezo go to Small Talk later for more om JS.

[patybear]

I love the idea of a postage stamp featuring Gord!


TO Yuri:
I love your idea for Gordy's 70th birthday.
I already know that unfortunately,theres no way I
would be able to make it.I'm sure there are others
who won't be able to go.Lets get everyone to put their heads together to get an idea so that no one totaly misses out.A video tape,maybe?
patybear

[Yuri]

Patybear,

Yes, I already suggested a video of the trip featuring the scenery, the railroad, and most of all the 'Lightheads' jamming on their instruments and perhaps entertaining other passengers as well as ourselves.

I was hoping that a few celebrities that have been influenced by Gord might record short video clips of birthday wishes or other sentiments which could be edited into the final production.

Perhaps we could persuade Aengus Finnan or Ian Tyson or J.P. Cormier and the like, to sit for a few minutes of video reflection. Far-fetched? Like "the little train that could", we don't know what is possible until we try.

If I were in better health and better connected, I'd be leading the charge however I hope that someone out there in 'Corfid Land' would be willing to lend whatever hand they can.

Anyone even lurking on the Corfid site can see that we are an extremely diverse and talented group of people. So bring your guitars, your voices, cameras, videos and enthusiasm. Someone here no doubt has the knowledge and skills to edit raw analogue or digital video into an artistic work of art.

A sentimental, heartfelt 'Salute' to be presented to our favourite artist. A chance for Gord to see how he has influenced us by truly bringing his song, his MASTERPIECE to life. A chance for Gord to put faces to some of his devoted fans - those of us who haven't had the privilage of poking our heads into his inner circle. Copies for Gord, the band and of course for ourselves.

Perhaps the video shown as a "Trilogy"? As mentioned above, The landscape, the railroad, the Corfidians all set to Gord's music performed on the train. Put on your thinking caps and come up with some ideas and suggestions. Sponsers? Media coverage? Small and private?

I'm still working on the VIA Rail logistics. I'll update when I can.

As I asked before, for Gord's 70th, what will it be -The Corfid Express or Do we all pitch in $ and fling a dozen roses onto the stage at intermission -what will it be?....

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1252/460tr9.gif

VS

http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/8527/rosesat1.jpg

Yuri

[patybear]

To Yuri:
Personally,I like the idea of the dozen roses for G.L. on his birthday.But may I tweek the idea a little bit? How about this:If at all
possible,get permission to go backstage after the concert and have one of Gords 'Net people'present them to him.Maybe you or Charlene could do it.

As for the video tape:What I meant was,video taping Gordon's concert so that those who couldn't be there get to partipcipate.

patybear

[Station Master]

Yuri, besides attempts at doing 'unauthorized' (lol) documentaries for the 2001 and 2006 Massey conventions/jams, etc we have offered a few times to shoot and edit the Hugh's Room tribute sessions including performer and fan anecdotes as a way of capturing the wonderful event (there's no more fitting tribute or suitable 'Toronto folk club' venue, IMO) but it didn't fly - as Jory says, the memories are all right here (clutching heart)

btw, way to go with the Gordopoly, Mary Ann! Char, yes, I met her great smile in 2004 at the Delta

EMP has got to get that sort of commemorative mass marketing going, ok kiddin;) ...but how about GL hologram inserts in the next O-Pee-Chee issue? lol

I still like those old proposals (see archived Bronze Gord thread) recommendations for a Gord (14K Gold) coin:)

OR that Seven Island Sweet candy bar (he's Canada's 'Babe Ruth'-like icon, lol)

a Sweet Marie Christine bar also might work, hold the nuts...

btw, sure hope Gord switches to Popeye brand in 2007

real nice work, Victoria Wallace ...now that's art, my version was just digital fiddlin'

Yuri, not sure if you have the first rough video, "Friends of Lightfoot", years out of print...but am trying to come up with title for 5 years after follow up DVD (still waiting for more video footage and candid pics)

I think calling it "Friends of Lightfoot TWO" is unoriginal but that's the default plural tag Hollywood usually uses for sequels, no?

how about "Friends of Lightfeet"? ;)

[jj]

Yuri, besides attempts at doing 'unauthorized' (lol) documentaries for the 2001 and 2006 Massey conventions/jams, etc we have offered a few times to shoot and edit the Hugh's Room tribute sessions including performer and fan anecdotes as a way of capturing the wonderful event (there's no more fitting tribute or suitable 'Toronto folk club' venue, IMO) but it didn't fly - as Jory says, the memories are all right here (clutching heart)

btw, way to go with the Gordopoly, Mary Ann! Char, yes, I met her great smile in 2004 at the Delta

EMP has got to get that sort of commemorative mass marketing going, ok kiddin;) ...but how about GL hologram inserts in the next O-Pee-Chee issue? lol

I still like those old proposals (see archived Bronze Gord thread) recommendations for a Gord (14K Gold) coin:)

OR that Seven Island Sweet candy bar (he's Canada's 'Babe Ruth'-like icon, lol)

a Sweet Marie Christine bar also might work, hold the nuts...

btw, sure hope Gord switches to Popeye brand in 2007

real nice work, Victoria Wallace ...now that's art, my version was just digital fiddlin'

Yuri, not sure if you have the first rough video, "Friends of Lightfoot", years out of print...but am trying to come up with title for 5 years after follow up DVD (still waiting for more video footage and candid pics)

I think calling it "Friends of Lightfoot TWO" is unoriginal but that's the default plural tag Hollywood usually uses for sequels, no?

how about "Friends of Lightfeet"? ;)

[Yuri]

jj;
My intentions were to make a private video for the participants and one to share with Gord, if he would care to watch. I think that Gord is "earthy enough to watch and enjoy this heartfelt "Thank You" from his fans. Any celebs would be voluntary and gravy on the VIA club-car feast.

I have numerous video clips of Gord from TV but don't have "Friends of Lightfoot" - Sorry....

How about "Lighthearted"???? - a coronary condition we have all experienced and find this wonderful affliction affects our daily lives.

Thoughts, ideas and suggestions continue to be welcomed,

Yuri

[Gitchigumee]

Originally posted by Yuri:
How about "Lighthearted"???? - a coronary condition we have all experienced and find this wonderful affliction affects our daily lives.
Yuri, if you mean that our film documentary should be entitled "Lighthearted," I think it is perfect! And your description of the condition could be in tiny parenthesis underneath: "a corony condition or affliction experienced daily by Lightfoot fans". I'm sure there are other good ideas out there too, but I sure like yours.

Perhaps the artists in this group could begin tninking of ideas for the DVD jacket cover and inserts materials!!!

-GG

[Gitchigumee]

Something I found in a travel magazine that just arrived yesterday:

http://www.rockymountaineer.com/

Might give us some ideas, and the photos are certainly inspiring.

[Gitchigumee]

I just finished reading this entire thread, from start to finish, and there seem to be several discussions happening all at the same time. I apologize for interjecting comments where they may not have made sense to someone just joining the discussion. Hope this clears up confusion for anyone new:

1. There's the idea of video taping the concert in Massey on or about Gord's 70th birthday in November of 2008, in order for those who are not able to attend to be able to see it. I think this is a great idea, and it would be awesome if it were done professionally, like the "Live in Reno" DVD.

2. There's the idea of buying roses to present to Gord during the concert, for his birthday. I believe the number of roses should be 70, just my personal opinion, and I absolutely think this is something we should most definitely do.

3. This is the big one!! It's Yuri's original idea of doing the train trip (those of us who are able), which would travel across Canada, ending up in Toronto for the big concert on or about Gord's 70th. In conjunction with this idea is the idea of filming a documentary about the trip and the fans, the Canadian Railroad and the scenery, and Gordon Lightfoot--the man and his music.

I vote for all 3 ideas. In fact, I will buy the video if #1 is realized, will contribute to the roses in idea #2, and I am just flat out going to do idea #3.

I am a very determined person. My husband says that I usually get what I want. It is because of this, that although I am not rich, I have been able to travel much, go on many adventures, and enjoy life to the fullest. This trip will happen for me, and since my husband is game for just about anything, it will happen for him too. It is going to be expensive, that I know.

And so in conclusion, depending on how this discussion goes in the weeks and months to come, and how many people are as serious about this as I am, we may have to figure out a better way to communicate so that we can begin planning in earnest. And there is the question of who is in charge of planning, etc. I would welcome Personal Messages if anyone thinks it would be more appropriate than discussing this trip openly here. One thing is for sure, this is an adventure none of us will ever forget!!!

[ December 27, 2006, 11:30: Message edited by: Gitchigumee ]

[Gitchigumee]

Sorry if it seems like I'm beating a dead horse, but I keep coming across ads for train trips, and so here's another one which, if not exactly appropriate for "our" trip NEXT YEAR, will at least inspire. (and I needed a place to file away the info)

http://www.americabyrail.net/North%20American%20Tours.html

[charlene]

David Baker, lawyer for the Council for Canadians with Disabilities and Pat Danforth speak with Canada AM on Friday from outside the Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa.

VIA Rail must make cars wheelchair accessible: SCC
Updated Fri. Mar. 23 2007 10:15 AM ET

CTV.ca News Staff

The Supreme Court of Canada has upheld a decision by federal regulators that will force VIA Rail to make their passenger rail cars more wheelchair accessible.


"Basically the judges have upheld the right of the Canadian Transportation Agency to order VIA Rail to make changes to accommodate disabled people, specifically those in wheelchairs, on their fleet of (French-built) Renaissance cars," CTV's Roger Smith said from the SCC.


"That means VIA rail will have to make changes on 40 of the 139 cars to ensure that there's at least one car that can accommodate disabled people on each train."


The judges ruled 5-4 in favour of the changes.


The Crown rail corporation said the ruling will cost them between $48 million to $92 million.


In 2003, the transportation agency called for upgrades on the cars including better bedroom and washroom access and expanded tie-down areas for wheelchairs.


In 2005, a Federal Court ruled that VIA Rail did not have to make the upgrades to the cars.


But the decision was appealed by the Council of Canadians with Disabilities, who have been fighting for the changes since 2000.


The cars are used in the busy Toronto-Ottawa-Montreal corridor and on routes between Montreal and the Maritimes.


"I've been on those cars and the difficulty with them is that they're very narrow trains," council member Pat Danforth told Canada AM. "The door widths are not wide enough to accommodate a standard wheelchair.


"As well there's not enough room to allow for a standard wheelchair to be tied down on the rail cars."


Danforth said the washrooms are also too small to accommodate a standard wheelchair.


Lawyer David Baker said Canadian standards are far behind U.S. regulations.


"There's not a single wheelchair accessible rail car in the country at the present time," said Baker. "In the United States there is not a single rail car that is not wheelchair accessible."


Advocates say the ruling could be key in establishing a legal precedent in other areas like airline and bus services.


VIA has argued that incidents where a disabled person has encountered an obstacle on their passenger cars is rare.

[charlene]

David Baker, lawyer for the Council for Canadians with Disabilities and Pat Danforth speak with Canada AM on Friday from outside the Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa.

VIA Rail must make cars wheelchair accessible: SCC
Updated Fri. Mar. 23 2007 10:15 AM ET

CTV.ca News Staff

The Supreme Court of Canada has upheld a decision by federal regulators that will force VIA Rail to make their passenger rail cars more wheelchair accessible.


"Basically the judges have upheld the right of the Canadian Transportation Agency to order VIA Rail to make changes to accommodate disabled people, specifically those in wheelchairs, on their fleet of (French-built) Renaissance cars," CTV's Roger Smith said from the SCC.


"That means VIA rail will have to make changes on 40 of the 139 cars to ensure that there's at least one car that can accommodate disabled people on each train."


The judges ruled 5-4 in favour of the changes.


The Crown rail corporation said the ruling will cost them between $48 million to $92 million.


In 2003, the transportation agency called for upgrades on the cars including better bedroom and washroom access and expanded tie-down areas for wheelchairs.


In 2005, a Federal Court ruled that VIA Rail did not have to make the upgrades to the cars.


But the decision was appealed by the Council of Canadians with Disabilities, who have been fighting for the changes since 2000.


The cars are used in the busy Toronto-Ottawa-Montreal corridor and on routes between Montreal and the Maritimes.


"I've been on those cars and the difficulty with them is that they're very narrow trains," council member Pat Danforth told Canada AM. "The door widths are not wide enough to accommodate a standard wheelchair.


"As well there's not enough room to allow for a standard wheelchair to be tied down on the rail cars."


Danforth said the washrooms are also too small to accommodate a standard wheelchair.


Lawyer David Baker said Canadian standards are far behind U.S. regulations.


"There's not a single wheelchair accessible rail car in the country at the present time," said Baker. "In the United States there is not a single rail car that is not wheelchair accessible."


Advocates say the ruling could be key in establishing a legal precedent in other areas like airline and bus services.


VIA has argued that incidents where a disabled person has encountered an obstacle on their passenger cars is rare.