Visit the TrainWeb.org Fan Page on Facebook!
Your Ad Here
News and Current Information

Track Spacer

NRMRC Logo

North Raleigh Model Railroad Club

News & Information

 
Track Spacer

Table of Contents

News & Information

  Monthly Meeting Notes

  Meeting Notes Archives

  Future Train Show Participation

  Club Apparel

Standards Committee

  Current Projects

Meetings & Programs

  Next Meeting

  Monthly Meeting Schedule

  5-Minute Modeling Tip

  Meeting Program

Train Shows

  Next Train Show

  Area Train Shows

Prototype Excursions

Articles from TRAKing Ahead

  Model RR Oriented

  Prototype RR Oriented

  Travel by Train

NRMRC Home

Click on title for desired topic.
 

Introduction

Founded in 1974, the North Raleigh Model Railroad Club meets monthly on the first Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm, except in January and July when the Club may meet on the second Wednesday to avoid the New Year's and July 4th holidays. Except for the Annual Meeting in January, which is held at a restaurant, our meetings are hosted by members in their homes.

Meetings generally last 2 to 2-1/2 hours and consist of a business meeting followed by socializing and refreshments. Then comes the 5-Minute Modeling Tip and finally our Program. If the meeting host has a home layout it is generally viewed during the social period or following the program; sometimes a home layout session takes the place of the program.

Information on meeting hosts, dates, the 5-Minute Modeling Tip and the monthly Program can be obtained by clicking on the appropriate link in the Table of Contents, or by scrolling down in this page.

This page includes notes on Club meetings for the latest 6 months. Notes from older meetings can be accessed on the Archives page.

The technical side of the Club's activities is guided by the Standards Committee. A list of current projects can be accessed from the Table of Contents. In particular, the NRMRC has been and is a pioneer and leader in the application of Digital Command Control (DCC) to NTRAK layouts.

The NRMRC participates in several train shows each year, both locally and in other locations. Details on future club train show participation are provided. A list of all train shows in this area is provided on the Area Train Shows page (click link in the Table of Contents).

From time-to-time prototype railroad excursion take place within driving distance of our location. We list these excursion when they are announced, including providing information on reservations for the excursion.

For several years the Club published a monthly newsletter named TRAKing Ahead, now replaced by information on this web site and the Club's Email list on Yahoogroups. Several articles from TRAKing Ahead have been collated and are available using the links on the Table of Contents.

NRMRC Home

Track Spacer

Monthly Meeting Notes

Highlights of the Club's February 2013 Meeting
Wake Forest, February 6, 2013

Sixteen members, one guest and one "Skype" member attended the Club's February 2013 meeting hosted by Dave Koss. Thanks Dave.

President Foster called the business meeting together at 7:30pm. The Treasurer's Report for January 2013 was reviewed and approved (Motion: McCurry/Second: Derway).

The minutes of the January meeting as posted on the Club's web site and as corrected were approved (Motion: Derway/Second: Blaustein).

There was extensive discussion about the proposed changes to the Club's Bylaws. Some suggested changes will be made to the words which will then be submitted to the Membership for discussion. The intent is a final approval vote at the March meeting.

Several train shows were discussed:

  • Train Collectors Association, February 17, 2013
    Our T-TRAK layout will be located in the Scott Building at the Fairgrounds. Setup will start at 8:30am and the show will be open to the public from 10am to 3pm. Module commitments have been obtained.

  • RANTRAK Operating Session, February 16 – 17, 2013
    Jim Kalenowski and Joe Peacock will attend this session in Ashland VA.

  • Carolina Coastal Railroaders Show, New Bern, NC, March 1 – 3, 2013
    Superintendent David Derway indicated that 10 members have committed to this show, the same number as last year. Layout space is the same, and the layout plan is very similar to last year's layout. Members going to New Bern are asked to meet at the storage shed at 9am on Friday, March 1. We will then proceed to our lunch at Wilbur's Barbecue in Goldsboro and then to New Bern. Set should start at the Sudan Temple around 2pm. Superintendent Derway will send out the proposed layout plan via the email list.

  • Apex Halle Center, March 12, 2013
    The Club will have use of the upstairs theater room at the Halle Center. Setup can start at 1pm, with the show open to the public from 6 to 9pm. We will exhibit our Apex Diorama and a T-TRAK layout. Joe Austin will confirm with the Historical Society re presenting a clinic on Model Railroading.

  • Chapel Hill Senior (Seymour) Center, Date TBD.
    Mark Blaustein will contact the Senior Center to determine a date for the show.

  • Springmoor Retirement Home, Date TDB.
    Don Cariss will contact Springmoor to arrange a date for our annual show.

  • Windsor Point Retirement Home, Date TBD
    Jim Reske will contact Windsor Point to determine if they would be interested in the Club setting up an NTRAK layout on a weekend in May.

  • 2013 NMRA National Convention, Atlanta, GA, July 14 – 20, 2013
    The National Train Show is July 19 – 21 with setup on the 17th and 18th. The NTRAK layout has been accepted for the show. T-TRAK modules from our club have been submitted to the T-TRAK coordinator.

The following item from the Standards Committee re the Ampere Station module reconstruction was discussed:

  • Joe Peacock resigned as prime Project Manager and David McDowell resigned as Assistant Project Manager for the Ampere Station reconstruction.

  • Joe Peacock showed a section of track using both flex track and Kato Unitrack that had been been scenciked and ballasted to demonstrate how Kato Unitrack could be used on an NTRAK module. The result was stunning. One significant advantage of using Unitrack turnouts is the fact they are fully self-contained. No under table turnout machine and linkage is required that will need to be adjusted from time-to-time. Joe pointed out that he used Z scale ballast ion the Unitrack turnouts due to the ties not being raised as much as usual for track.

  • Jim Kalenowski expressed concern at the cost of refurbishing Ampere Station with either Peco/Tortoise or Unitrack turnouts/machines. He suggested that we not try to match the existing Ampere Station layout. Jim will put together a proposal and send it out for comment via the Club's email list.

President Foster indicated that 5-Minuite Tips and Programs are set though June.

John Wallis stated that the Piedmont Railroad Museum & Library was investigating obtaining a store front so they could get going. He asked if the Club would be interested in placing an NTRAK layout in such as storefront.; There would be space for working on modules, such as Ampere Station, as well. Members are very supportive of having a layout in such as facility.

The Club's March meeting will be hosted by Mark Blaustein on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at 7:30pm. The 5-Minute Modeling Tip will be Modeling Grade Crossings by Dave Koss, and the Program will be Weathering by Jim Kalenowski.

David Derway brought club shirts for those who had ordered them.

The meeting adjourned at 8:50pm.

Terry Baker presented the 5-Minute Tip on LEDs in Series, using a PowerPoint presentation to show how he used LEDs to light an engine house on his layout. Thanks Terry.

Due to the length of the meeting the Program on Weathering by Jim Kalenowski has been postponed to the March meeting. This was done so there was time for Members to visit Dave Koss' N Scale railroad, the ACL Spartanburg Division.

Top

 

NRMRC Home




Highlights of the Club's 2013 Annual Meeting
Cary, January 9, 2013

Fifteen members, five spouses and five others attended the Club's 2013 Annual Meeting held at the Golden Corral Restaurant in Cary.

President Blaustein called the business meeting together at 7:00pm. The Treasurer's Report for December 2012 was reviewed and approved (Motion: Derway/Second: Foster), and the 2013 Budget was reviewed and approved (Motion: Thompson/Second: McCurry).

The minutes of the December meeting as posted on the Club's web site and as corrected were approved (Motion: Ohegyi/Second: Sadler).

President Blaustein briefly mentioned several train shows, but none were discussed in detail since none will be held prior to the February meeting.

Election of Officers and a Director for 2013 took place once nominations were closed (Motion: Foster/Second: Guckes). Since there was only one candidate for each position, the following were unanimously elected:

Position

Elected

President

Gerry Foster

Vice-President

Mark Blaustein

Secretary

John Wallis

Treasurer

Don Cariss

Director

David McDowell

Outgoing President then handed the gavel to incoming President Gerry Foster.

The Club's February meeting will be hosted by Dave Koss on Wednesday, February 6, 2013 at 7:30pm. The 5-Minute Modeling Tip will be LED in Series Lighting by Terry Baker, and the Program will be Weathering by Jim Kalenowski.

David Derway indicated club shirts had been shipped and would be available at the February meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 7:13pm.

Our annual Gift Exchange then took place with eighteen people participating. Clearly the most popular gift was a big box containing a bouquet of Union Pacific "Portland Roses". The extra rose for each lady present was a very nice touch.

The Club's Board of Directors held a meeting as required by the North Carolina Non-Profit Corporations Act.

Top

 

NRMRC Home




Highlights of the Club's December 2012 Meeting
Cary, December 5, 2012

Fifteen members attended the Club's December 2012 meeting hosted by Joel McCurry. Thanks Joel. One member attended via Skype, plus one guest Charles Eisener from Salt City NTRAK in Syracuse, NY.

President Blaustein called the meeting together at 7:35pm. The Treasurer's report for November 2012 was reviewed and approved (Motion: McCurry/Second: Wallis). Treasurer Cariss was requested to prepare a proposed budget for 2013 and email to Board members by Monday, December 10. Once approved by the Board dues for 2013 will be set; these are required for Membership Renewal Notices to be sent out the week between Christmas and New Year's.

The minutes of the November meeting as posted on the Club's web site were approved, as corrected (Motion: McCurry/Second: Peacock).

Several train shows were discussed:

  • Train Collectors Association, December 1 and 2, 2012
    This was our largest T-TRAK layout yet, and was an excellent show enjoyed by all. The topic of protecting our T-TRAK modules from little fingers was discussed. Full discussion will be via the email list.

  • Chapel Hill Senior (Seymour) Center, January 19, 2013
    This show is postponed until March.

  • Train Collectors Association, February 17, 2013
    We will again have four tables for our layout.

  • Carolina Coastal Railroaders Show, New Bern, NC — March 1 – 3, 2013
    David Derway will be Superintendent for the NTRAK layout and Mark Blaustein for the T-TRAK layout.

  • Apex Halle Center, March 12, 2013
    The Club will provide a presentation on model railroading. There will be space for a small T-TRAK layout and the Apex Diorama. Joe Austin to follow up with the Apex Historical Society.

  • 2013 NMRA National Convention, Atlanta, GA, July 14 – 20, 2013
    The National Train Show is July 19 – 21 with setup on the 18th. Formal application for the layout has been sent to the Convention Committee.

  • NTRAK Convention, Chantilly, VA — August 8 – 10, 2014
    NVNTRAK has firmly decided on several smaller layouts at this Convention rather than the next world's largest NTRAK layout.

5-Minute Modeling Tips and Programs have been scheduled out through May 2013, and can be viewed on the News web page.

Several items from the Standards Committee were discussed:

  • The Statement of Work for the rebuilding of Ampere Station was reviewed. Joe peacock was nominated (Motion: Thompson; Second: Koss) to be Project Manager; David McDowell volunteered to be Assistant Project Manager. Completion is planned for the Selma show in October. $500.00 will be included in the 2013 budget to cover the cost.

  • The Club's inside corner modules need to have their frames and legs strengthened. The design does not allow the legs to be fixed. It is recommended the frames be rebuilt, including sturdy legs. This project is not yet scheduled or funded.

  • The foam scenery on Cariss Corner is becoming unglued from the plywood base, and needs to be re-fastened. It was suggested we used screws with fender washers for this purpose. This project requires a a volunteer to handle.

  • A new combination lock was placed on the storage shed; the combination was sent to Members via email.

Election of Officers and a Director for 2013 was discussed, and nominations accepted. The following table lists the positions and nominations made:

Position

Nominated

President

Gerry Foster
(per Bylaws)

Vice-President

Mark Blaustein

Secretary

John Wallis

Treasurer

Don Cariss

Director

David McDowell

Additional nominations may be made up to and at the Annual Meeting in January 2013.

The Club's January meeting will be the Annual Meeting. It is scheduled for Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at 6:30pm at the3 Golden Corral Restaurant on Dillard Drive in Cary. The agenda will be a short Business Meeting, followed by Election of Officers and a Director, followed by our Annual Gift Exchange. The official notice of the Annual Meeting will be emailed to members a few days after Christmas.

David Derway is taking orders for club shirts. Contact him directly if you would like to order a shirt.

The meeting adjourned at 8:25pm.

David Koss presented a 5-Minute Modelling Tip which reviewed the history of N Scale as it was documented in various issues of Model Railroader magazine, dating back to the mid-1960's. Thanks Dave.

John Wallis conducted our annual prototype railroad quiz. Joel McCurry was the winner and will select last in the Gift Exchange at the Annual Meeting

Top

 

NRMRC Home




Highlights of the Club's November 2012 Meeting
Chapel Hill, November 7, 2012

Twelve members attended the Club's November 2012 meeting hosted by Mark Blaustein. Thanks Mark. One member attended via Skype, and two others electronically.

President Blaustein called the meeting together at 7:30pm. The Treasurer's report for October 2012 was reviewed and approved (Motion: Derway/Second: McCurry).

The minutes of the October meeting as posted on the Club's web site were approved (Motion: Derway/Second: Guckes).

The membership of a club member was revoked, the first such event in the history of the Club. This member had previously been involved in an incident for which he received a warning according to Club Bylaws. A second incident this past weekend resulted in the Board of Directors recommending revocation. This recommendation was carried by the required two-thirds vote of the Membership at this meeting. A second member involved in the incident on Sunday will receive a warning letter.

Several train shows were discussed:

  • Neuse River Valley Show, Fairgrounds, November 3 and 4, 2012 (NTRAK, T-TRAK, Junior Engineer, Apex Diorama)
    This was a very successful show. The modifications to the yard throat worked well; an incorrectly wired switch was fixed. The Junior Engineer Layout proved very popular with young visitors as over 70 Junior Engineers participated. Apex Diorama was displayed in the lobby of the building; the club thanks Joe Peacock for construction of the protective panels around the diorama.

    In response to discussion, Joel McCurry confirmed that trains operating on DC control can use the Blue bypass tracks to enter Raleigh Yard, and have access to the turnaround loop and the outer three tracks on each side of the yard.

    It was suggested that Jim Kalenowski take on the task of powering the frogs on the turnouts on the yard crossover module.

  • Train Collectors Association, December 1 and 2, 2012
    Four tables are confirmed, which will allow a U-shaped T-TRAK layout. Layout planning will be via the email list.

  • Chapel Hill Senior (Seymour) Center, January 19, 2013
    This will be a T-TRAK layout in the lobby of the Center, as we did in 2012.

  • Apex Halle Center, March 12, 2013
    The Club will provide a presentation on model railroading. There will be space for a small T-TRAK layout and the Apex Diorama.

  • 2013 NMRA National Convention, Atlanta, GA, July 14 – 20, 2013
    Members planning to attend were advised to visit the Convention web site as advance registration discounts expire on August 4, 2012. The National Train Show is July 19 – 21 with setup on the 18th.

    In addition to those who said at the May meeting that they would be attending, Joel McCurry will be going to the Convention, and Mark Blaustein will bring T-TRAK modules as well as his NTRAK modules.

The Apex Diorama was very successfully displayed at the Halle Center in Apex on October 14, 2012. The Club has received a donation from the Apex Historical Society. A It has been decided that the Diorama will remain as a Diorama for exhibit for a period of two years, after which its future as a module will be discussed. Storage of the module was also discussed.

A 5-Minute Modeling Tip has been scheduled for December, but tips are required for 2013 starting in February. Programs are scheduled for February and March 2013. Club members were asked to make suggestions for programs and tips they would like to see, and forward their suggestions to Gerry Foster.

One item from the Standards Committee was discussed:

  • The committee reviewing Ampere Station made their recommendations, which were discussed. It is suggested that the Green track remain in front of the skyboard, due to the 30" depth of the module, and that the front left and right corners be tapered into the normal depth, similar to Rockin' Toxin. John Wallis will now prepare a Statement of Work following which detailed planning for this module can begin.

The Club is scheduled to present a clinic at the Chapel Hill Senior Center on November 17. The topic is Model Railroading Overview, by John Wallis. Mark Blaustein will check with the Center to anyone has signed up for the session.

Election of Officers and a Director for 2013 was discussed, and nominations accepted. The following table lists the positions and nominations made:

Position

Nominated

President

Gerry Foster
(per Bylaws)

Vice-President

Mark Blaustein

Secretary

John Wallis

Treasurer

Don Cariss

Director

David McDowell

Additional nominations may be made up to and at the Annual Meeting in January 2013.

John Wallis volunteered to purchase a new lock for the storage shed.

The meeting adjourned at 8:10pm.

Paul Ohegyi showed how he constructed the wood fence that is on the Junior Engineer Layout, by using stripwood on a piece of tape to hold in place and then gluing stringers in place. Thanks Paul.

In place of a program there was a White Elephant Sale.

Top

 

NRMRC Home




Highlights of the Club's October 2012 Meeting
Raleigh, October 3, 2012

Thirteen members and one guest attended the Club's October 2012 meeting hosted by Don Cariss. Thanks Don. There was no participation via Skype this month.

Vice-President Foster called the meeting together at 7:30pm. The Treasurer's report for September 2012 was reviewed and approved (Motion: Thompson/Second: Royse).

The minutes of the August meeting as posted on the Club's web site were approved (Motion: Cariss/Second: Ohegyi).

Several train shows were discussed:

  • Danville Old 97 Rail Day, September 22 – 23, 2012 (NTRAK).
    Great show. The layout worked well. Simplex throttle testing revealed problems more complex than thought, plus a proposed fix did not work as we expected.

  • Selma Rail Day. Selma NC, October 5 and 6, 2012 (NTRAK and T-TRAK)
    Setup will be the 3rd. Due to the flexibility of the furniture arrangements in the welcome center and the availability of tables a T-TRAK layout will be set up as well as our NTRAK layout. The NTRAK layout will be turned 90 degrees to provide more side aisle space. Don Cariss will complete planning the layouts via the email list. Eight different elementary school classes are expected to attend on Friday.

  • Neuse River Valley Show, Fairgrounds, November 3 and 4, 2012 (NTRAK, T-TRAK, Junior Engineer)
    An email asking for module commitments will be sent out in the next few days. We need to determine the location for the Apex Diorama so a protective cover can be obtained if it will be located in the front lobby. Layout configuration and discussion via the email list.

  • Train Collectors Association, December 1 and 2, 2012
    We have requested four tables, which will allow a U-shaped T-TRAK layout. We will also check to see if there is space for an NTRAK layout.

  • Apex Halle Center, March 12, 2013
    The Club will provide a presentation on model railroading. There will be space for a small T-TRAK layout and the Apex Diorama.

  • 2013 NMRA National Convention, Atlanta, GA, July 14 – 20, 2013
    Members planning to attend were advised to visit the Convention web site as advance registration discounts expire on August 4, 2012. The National Train Show is July 19 – 21 with setup on the 18th.

Work continued on the Apex Diorama with all buildings now done except for the firehouse and the asphalt plant. The base for the buildings is complete. Work will continue up to the day prior to our exhibit of the Diorama at the Halle Center in Apex on October 14.John Wallis to prepare signs and labels for the Diorama. Joe Austin to determine if we will also have a T-TRAK layout at the Halle Center. A digital photo frame will be loaded with the pictures taken of Apex we used as a guide for construction.

5-Minute Modeling Tips are required for November and December plus early 2013, and a Program is required for November plus early 2013. Paul Ohegyi offered to do a 5-Minute Tip on Building Wooden Fences at the November meeting. The November program will be a White Elephant Sale. Volunteers should contact Gerry Foster.

Three items from the Standards Committee were discussed:

  • The Ampere Station module built by Don Cariss, and now owned by the Club, needs to be refurbished and upgraded. Joe Peacock provided a number of suggestions, which evoked strong response from some members. he project will be discussed by those attending the Selma layout, which will include the Ampere Station module. The committee consisting of Don Cariss, Dave Condon, Gerry Foster and John Wallis will review this discussion and then make a recommendation to the club for approval to proceed.

  • The T-TRAK modules with double-crossovers for routing flexibility on T-TRAK layouts have been completed and are ready for use.

Don Cariss presented a program on the Railroad History of the Northeast at Litchford Falls Healthcare Facility on September 29. Although the audience was small the program was well received with a good discussion following the presentation. \

The Club had earlier agreed to present clinics at the Chapel Hill Senior Center on September 29, October 20 and November 17. Topics for the three sessions are:

  • September 29 — Model Railroading Overview — John Wallis

  • October 20 — Constructing a T-TRAK Module — Dave Thompson

  • November 17 — Scenicking a T-TRAK Module — TBD

Since no one signed up for the September 29 date this program will be presented on October 20. We have also been invited back with our T=TRAK layout on a Saturday in January 2013. Members expressed a preference for January 19.

The meeting adjourned at 8:20pm.

Jim Kalenowski, Joe Peacock and Joel McCurry presented the results of their modifications of the Raleigh Yard throat to provide better indication of routes in the yard, using a slide switch to throw each turnout and LED indicator lights. They included a sample turnout with indicator lights as a demonstration. The modifications will be used for the first time at NRV. Once everything is verified the Raleigh Yard Operating Procedures document will be update to reflect the new procedures. Thanks, Jim, Joe and Joel.

Dave Thompson and John Wallis began a discussion on possible scenery concepts for T-TRAK modules, given the limited space on a T-TRAK module. Thanks Dave and John. The suggestions discussed are listed below:

  • Install a siding with a loading ramp

  • Go angular; not everything is rectangular or parallel

  • Do the reverse of Radical Flats. Have a partial building open to the front of the module, at an angle, with a furnished and lighted interior, which gives the effect of a full building.

  • Small highly detailed scenes that tell as story.

  • Used layered Radical Flats to create a 3-dimensional effect.

  • Backdrops on the skyboard — either paint ourselves of purchase good backdrops.

Top

 

NRMRC Home




Highlights of the Club's September 2012 Meeting
Fuquay-Varina, September 5, 2012

Thirteen members attended the Club's September 2012 meeting hosted by Jim Reske. Thanks Jim. Two members also participated via Skype. Twelve members attended the cookout provided by Jim. Thanks again Jim.

President Blaustein called the meeting together at 7:25pm. He requested members pay attention to the correct use of "Reply" vs. "Reply All" when replying to emails on our Yahoogroups email list. The Treasurer's report for August 2012 was reviewed and approved (Motion: McCurry/Second: Condon).

The minutes of the August meeting as posted on the Club's web site were approved (Motion: Derway/Second: Condon).

Several train shows were discussed:

  • Danville Old 97 Rail Day, September 22 – 23, 2012 (NTRAK).
    Email sent with details of the weekend, plus information on what items NRMRC must take, and who will transport. The latest layout plan was included in the email. So far, ten members have indicated they will attend the Danville weekend. Any hotel reservations not yet made should be done as soon as possible.

  • Selma Rail Day. Selma NC, October 5 and 6, 2012 (NTRAK and T-TRAK)
    Setup will be the 3rd. Due to the flexibility of the furniture arrangements in the welcome center and the availability of tables a T-TRAK layout will be set up as well as our NTRAK layout. The NTRAK layout will be turned 90 degrees to provide more side aisle space. Don Cariss will complete planning the layouts via the email list.

  • Neuse River Valley Show, Fairgrounds, November 3 and 4, 2012 (NTRAK, T-TRAK, Junior Engineer)
    The Club should have our normal 16' x 72' NTRAK layout, our Junior Engineer layout and a two- or three-table T-TRAK layout.

  • Train Collectors Association, December 1 and 2, 2012
    We have requested four tables, which will allow a U-shaped T-TRAK layout. We will also check to see if there is space for an NTRAK layout.

  • Apex Halle Center, March 12, 2013
    The Club will provide a presentation on model railroading. There will be space for a small T-TRAK layout and the Apex Diorama.

  • 2013 NMRA National Convention, Atlanta, GA, July 14 – 20, 2013
    Members planning to attend were advised to visit the Convention web site as advance registration discounts expire on August 4, 2012. The National Train Show is July 19 – 21 with setup on the 18th.

Mark Blaustein has taken on the task of Project Manager for the Apex Diorama; the Club has made a commitment to display the diorama at the Apex Halle Center on October 14, 2012. The next work session will be Saturday, September 8 hosted by Joe Peacock and starting at 8am; subsequent work sessions will be September 15 and 29. The current status of the project was discussed, as were initial quotes for a cover to protect the diorama when on display; a decision on the cover has been tabled for the present. David Condon will contact Joe Austin to discuss possible other venues for display of the diorama.

5-Minute Modeling Tips are required for November and December plus early 2013, and a Program is required for November plus early 2013. Volunteers should contact Gerry Foster. The 5-Minute Tip and Program for October will be Scenery Ideas for T-TRAK Modules chaired by Dave Thompson and John Wallis.

Three items from the Standards Committee were discussed:

  • Raleigh Yard Turnouts.
    The Club approved the expenditure of up to $175 to complete this project (Motion: Condon/Second: Guckes). This project is well along the way for completion in time for NRV.

  • The Ampere Station module built by Don Cariss, and now owned by the Club, needs to be refurbished and upgraded. Joe Peacock provided a number of suggestions, which evoked strong response from some members. A committee consisting of Don Cariss, Dave Condon, Gerry Foster and John Wallis will take on the task of reviewing this module and the proposals made for its refurbishment, which will lead to a recommendation to the club for approval to proceed.

The Club has agreed to present clinics at the Chapel Hill Senior Center on September 29, October 20 and November 17. Topics for the three sessions are:

  • September 29 — Model Railroading Overview — John Wallis

  • October 20 — Constructing a T-TRAK Module — Dave Thompson

  • November 17 — Scenicking a T-TRAK Module — TBD

In addition, Don Cariss will do a presentation on model railroading at the Litchford Fall Healthcare facility of September 29. There is also the potential of an event at the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

The meeting adjourned at 8:25pm.

Al Guckes presented the 5-Minute Tip on "Dentistry in Model Railroading". He showed and described several dental tools that are very similar to those used in model railroading, as well as provided various tools that members could take to use in their own modeling. Thanks, Al.

John Wallis presented the last of a three-part Program on Digital Command Control, based on the topics requested by members. Thanks John.
 

Top

 

NRMRC Home




Older Meeting Notes

To access Monthly Meeting Notes older than 6 months Click Here to access the Meeting Notes Archives page for 2012. For meeting notes in PDF format from 2010 — 2011 click on the desired date below:

2010

2011

 
For meeting notes older then 2010 please contact the Club's Secretary.
 

Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Future NRMRC Train Show Participation

The following are future Train Shows in which the NRMRC is planning to participate:

Year Dates Show Location Show Management Layout

2013

TBD

Layout at Chapel Hill
Senior Center

Robert & Pearl Seymour Center
2551 Homestead Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Superintendent: Mark Blaustein

T-TRAK

February 17

Train Collectors Association
Southeastern Division
Toy Train Sale

Kerr Scott Building
NC State Fairgrounds
Raleigh, NC

Superintendent: John Wallis

T-TRAK

March 2 – 3

Carolina Coastal Railroaders Model Train Show

Sudan Temple
403 E. Front Street
New Bern, NC 28560

Superintendent: TBD

NTRAK
and
T-TRAK

July 18 – 21

NMRA National Train Show

Cobb Galeria Center
Two Galleria Parkway
Atlanta GA 30339

Superintendent: TBD

NTRAK
and
T-TRAK

September 28 – 29

Danville Old 97 Rail Days

The Crossing at the Dan
677 Craghead Street
Danville, VA

Superintendent: RANTRAK

NTRAK

October 5

Selma Rail Day

Old Courthouse
Selma, NC

Superintendent: Don Cariss

NTRAK
and
T-TRAK

November 2 – 3

Neuse River Valley
Train Show

Exposition Center
NC State Fairgrounds
Raleigh, NC

Superintendent: John Wallis

NTRAK
and
T-TRAK

More information on each show will be posted as we approach the show dates.

Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Club Apparel

David Derway is taking orders for Club shirts. Estimated price is $20 + shipping for shirts without an embroidered name and $25 + shipping for shirts with name embroidered. Different shirts available are:

  • Blue denim shirt with long sleeves and pocket including NRMRC Logo, with/without embroidered name.

  • Blue denim shirt with short sleeves and pocket, including NRMRC Logo, with/without embroidered name.

  • Light gray Polo shirt with short sleeves, no pocket, including NRMRC Logo, with/without embroidered name.

Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Standards Committee Projects

The Standards Committee has a number of projects underway, as follows:

Title Description Responsible
Person(s)
Due Date
& Status

Refurbish Anderson Farm

Install Powerpole Connectors & 12-Gauge Wire. LocoNet & Accessory Buses. Refurbish track. Install crossovers. Refurbish scenery

TBD

Once module received then prepare SOW.

2' Bridge Module

Construct new 2' Bridge module to replace Traxtown Ridge.

Standards Committee

Deferred

Raleigh Yard

Improve electrical connectivity of throat turnouts to 20 yard tracks.

Jim Kalenowski

Crossover module to be done and update documentation

Ampere Station

Completely refurbish module replacing track, scenery, framework, etc., as required

TBD

Statement of Work issued
Complete for Selma Show

North East

Re-align Green Track at left end of module

TBD

During setup at next show with module present

Inside Corners

Replace rickety bases and legs

TBD

TBD


Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Next Club Meeting

Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at 7:30pm

Host: Mark Blaustein

If you are visiting this area or you are a non-Member and would like an invitation and directions to this meeting, send us an E-mail.

NRMRC monthly meetings are normally held the first Wednesday of each month in various Members' homes, starting at 7:30pm. The Annual Meeting each January is normally a dinner meeting held at a local restaurant held the second Wednesday, and the July meeting is normally the second Wednesday to avoid the July 4th holiday. Meetings generally include a business meeting, a program topic (see below) and socializing.
 

Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Monthly Meeting Schedule & Hosts

2013

Month Host Month Host

January 9

Annual Meeting

July 10

 

February 6

Dave Koss

August 7

 

March 6

Mark Blaustein

September 4

Jim Reske

April 3

David McDowell

October 2

Al Guckes

May 1

 

November 6

Don Cariss

June 5

Joe Peacock

December 4

Joel McCurry


Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

5-Minute Modeling Tip

2013

Month Topic Presenter

January

Annual Meeting

Annual Meeting

February

LED in Series Lighting

Terry Baker

March

Modeling Grade Crossings

Dave Koss

April

N Scale Screened-In Porches

Terry Baker

May

Using Lighter Springs

Jim Reske

June

Applying Cyanoacrylate Glues

David Derway

July

 

 

August

 

 

September

 

 

October

 

 

November

 

i

December

 

 


Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Program Topics

2013

Month Topic Presenter

January

Annual Meeting & Gift Exchange

February

Weathering, Part 1 — Postponed

Jim Kalenowski

March

Weathering, Part 1

Jim Kalenowski

April

Signaling with the NRMRC Test Layout

David McDowell

May

Flat Car & Gondola Car Loads — RTR, Kits & Scratchbuilt

David Derway

June

Constructing Water Tanks

Paul Ohegyi

July

 

 

August

 

 

September

 

 

October

 

 

November

 

 

December

Annual Railroad Questionnaire

John Wallis


Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Next NRMRC Train Show

TCA Logo

Sunday, February 17, 2013

The Train Collectors Association
Southeastern Division
Toy Train Sale

Sale & Display Items: Lionel, MTH, K-Line, Weaver, Atlas, Williams, American Flyer, Marklin, Ives, Marx, LGB, Aristocraft, Bachmann, Varney — Track, Switches, Accessories, Replacement Parts & other toy train related items.

Features over 100 tables of toy trains & related Items, plus door prizes and operating layouts. Raffle prize drawing of Lionel Dale Earnhardt Train Set at 3:00pm.

Kids Train Races — bring your favorite racing engine.

Scenery Workshop.

3:00pm Raffle Prize Drawing: Lionel Southern Freight Runner Service Station Set #11704.
 

Kerr Scott Building
NC State Fairgrounds
Raleigh, North Carolina

Hours: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Admission: 13 years and up: $6.00 ($5.00 with flyer or newspaper ad)
Under 13 with adult — Free

 
For more information visit the Southeastern Division web-site at http://www.se-tca.org.

The North Raleigh Model Railroad Club will have a T-TRAK layout at this show.



Top

 

NRMRC Home


Track Spacer

Articles from TRAKing Ahead

To read articles from TRAKing Ahead, the former Newsletter of the North Raleigh Model Railroad Club, click in the appropriate box below for prototype or model railroad oriented articles, or for stories of actual train trips taken by our Members.
 

Articles from TRAKing Ahead
Prototype Oriented

Articles from TRAKing Ahead
Model Railroad Oriented

Articles from TRAKing AheadTravel by Train

A Commuter Train Named "The Canadian"
The Grass is not GREENER on the Other Side . . . but the Trains Are
Riding the Eurostar


Top

 

NRMRC Home



Track Spacer
 

Copyright © 1997–2013 North Raleigh Model Railroad Club. All rights reserved.
The NRMRC is a Not-For-Profit Corporation incorporated in North Carolina.
The various logos and heralds shown here are the property of their respective organizations.

Last updated: Thursday, February 7, 2013

 

North Raleigh Model Railroad Club
Webmaster: John M Wallis (Email)

Visit the TrainWeb.org Fan Page on Facebook!
Create your own free Rail Blog or Website!

Advertise | About Us | Contact Us | Sign up for our Newsletter | TrainWeb.com

Your Ad Here
Your Ad Here