Metrolink Madness - Sat, Jun 13, 2009

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Another round of frivality on our local rails took place this past Saturday when several of us gathered for our annual June Metrolink Madness run from Fullerton to San Clemente to Union Station and back to Fullerton.

This years' event took place under the dark skies of a persistent June gloom that may have offered less than ideal photographic conditions, but nodody seemed to mind as smiles and laughter were common throughout the brief 3 3/4 hour trip.

Here we see some attendees glance down the platform toward Brett as he arrives with little time to spare.

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Once on board, those so inclined donned the official party hats for the event and the Santa Hat Society once again reared its ugly head.

Shutters began firing in earnest, and for some time, it was hard to get a photo of anyone without them getting one of you. Here we see David, the intended victim of my camera, turning the tables on me.

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Proudly wearing the distinctive Santa Hat Society headgear, Dan is seen here clearly enjoying the trip.

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A self-portrait with several Santa Hat Societymembers in the background lets me see just how dignified we all look.

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Where are we? And where are the detectors? Never fear! Altmont Press is here!

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Brett, who was one of two on this trip celebrating a recent birthday, enjoys the view of surf and sand as we cruise the coast south of Doheny State Beach.

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Having reached our southern terminus of San Clemente, the group wanders about the small platform enjoying the sights, sounds,and smells of the sea.

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I think Danny's mom was asking how long we got to stay in the beautiful location. She seemed to like it there and hoped not to board the next train so quickly.

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A subset of the group suddenly poses as I direct my camera toward them.

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Tyler struggles with the hat constantly catching the swirling sea breezes.