On My lunch break this morning, I stopped in to shop at Des Plaines Hobbies on Lee Street in northwest suburban Des Plaines Illinois.

This news story, appears on Page 24 of the November 2010 issue of Railfan and Railroad, published by Carstens Publishing Comapny www.railfan.com

Well folks, after operating at a major financial loss, the Central Illinois Railroad has decided to pull out of the Windy City. It makes Me sad, because back on Friday, October 31st, 2008....they had an "Open House" public relations event I had attended with several local railfan photographers. At the event, Former Belt Railway of Chicago EMD SW 1200 yard switcher # 2006, made Her debut wearing a fresh 1950's era
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy "Heritage" color scheme. I took several photos and videos that day. It is also the day I finally had the honor of meeting fellow Chicago area railfan Franklin Campbell amongst the assembled photographers.

Frank was a big fan of this railroad and had taken many photos at His own Flickr page. Oh well. I guess it was nice while it had lasted anyway. Times are tough these days economically here in Chicago Illinois.

The former Burlington Northern "Lumberyard District" branchline in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood where the Central Illinois Railroad operated, has been returned to the lines owner the BNSF Railway, who will be resuming switching operations.