Thanks to donations by the community of Delta County and the Upper Peninsula, Soo Line Steam Engine 730 has come alive again with Christmas lights and ribbons and bows. Located at the end of Delta Avenue and along highway U.S. 2 and 41 in Gladstone, the engine has been an historical landmark since 1960 when the then Soo Line Railroad donated it to the Soo Line Retirees to maintain. Sadly all but one of the retirees have passed away and are no longer up to the task of maintaining the engine. Several years ago a 501(c) 3 authority was formed by John Pickard, who is the president, to help raise funds and restore and refurbish the engine for day to day maintenance, plus a fund was established for perpetual care long after the authority is gone. “It’s our Christmas gift to the community for all the donations and support. More is left to do to improve the sight with some painting and work inside the cab with a new floor and hope to get the whistle to sound once more,” said Pickard. They have teamed up this year with Nantastic Grooming at 817 and 819 Delta Ave., Gladstone, for the Old Fashioned Christmas event today featuring roasting your own hot dogs over the fire. It is part of the festivities in downtown Gladstone that start with the tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time. Planning is also underway for the annual four-person golf fundraiser on May 29 at the Escanaba Golf Course. Donations continue to be sought for restoration and perpetual care. All donations are being accepted by the Community Foundation for Delta County, 2420 1st Ave South, Escanaba, MI. 49829, in care of Soo Line 730.