Hickory Creek in Washington for the 87th Annual Transportation Research Board Conference

The Hickory Creek departed New York Penn Station on Amtrak's Crescent on Saturday, January 12, 2008.  The car was chartered by Global Transportation Consultancy of Madison, Wisconsin, and distinguished guests.  The purpose of the charter being to provide transportation to the conference, as well as hotel sleeping accommodations.  With the event attracting over ten-thousand representatives from various global transportation organizations, hotel space was at a premium in the city.  On Monday, January 14th, a reception was held aboard the car, with light refreshments being served and was hosted by the University of Tennessee.  The event was a success and attracted  officials from a broad sampling of transportation agencies.  In the course of our stay, guests were treated with a visit from Amtrak's President, Alex Kummant and Amtrak's Vice-President of Governmental Affairs, Joe McHugh as well as Mr. Scott Leonard of the same office.  There was also a surprise visit from Congressman Spencer Backus, who told stories of his grandfather, who was a locomotive engineer.

On Wednesday, January 16th, the Hickory Creek was switched over to the lower level to await the arrival of the northbound Crescent.  Running ahead of schedule, the Hickory Creek was attached to the rear of the train and soon we departed for New York City. Guests enjoyed a freshly prepared meal by Chief Mechanical Officer and Chef Raymond Clauss.

We would like to thank Amtrak for their cooperation and contribution to the success of this event.


Left to Right:  Forrest Van Schwartz, Don Phillips and Joe McHugh pose for
a photograph on the famous 20th Century Limited red carpet.

Left to Right: David Clarke (University of Tennessee), Brian Gallagher (Amtrak),
Congressman Spencer Backus, Mark Burton (University of Tennessee) ,
Forrest Van Schwartz (Global Transportation Consultancy), Raymond Clauss (Star Trak Inc.),
Jim Wrinn (Trains Magazine)

The Hickory Creek on track 9 in Washington Union Station.