the great Cuesta Grade fiasco

We are lovers of Amtrak, but realize that they have their share of fiascos. In this particular case, the engine did not have enough power to pull the train - burdened that day with additional cars - over the Cuesta Grade. I believe it made three attempts - up the mountain, then back down the mountain - before an extra locomotive was finally called in for help. Around sunset, some 3-4 hours behind schedule, the little engine that could finally made the grade.