My 1st York.... One word "WOW"

Enjoyed meeting and chatting with you, Steve.

Peter

I was great, wasn't it Steve? I don't think we got introduced properly. One thing you will find out is that it doesn't matter if it's your first, or 30th, you will always get help, advice, friendship, or just casual conversation. Last October I talked to two older guys taking a breather. We had great talks about dogs, cars and growing up. Today when I was walking around some older guy was admiring my flight jacket. O bought it I think 13-14 years ago from a company I think in Ohio(where the guy was from) that was founded by a Vietnam Vet. I scatter brained on more information on that, but we talked a bit further and then went out separate ways. I talked probably as much today as each of the other days. Always find me talking to someone.

I had a great time as well. Met up with Alan Arnold and Mr. Muffin in the orange hall and had a nice conversation. Said hello to Peter at Quaker Steak and Lube, but I’ll tell you what, I bought my 1st Hudson and I am sooo excited to get it home! Picked up some other postwar locos as well as many odds and ends. Overall, what a great time! Not sure if I’ll be here in Spring, but I am planning on next October!

Putnam Division posted:

Enjoyed meeting and chatting with you, Steve.

Peter

It truly was a pleasure meeting you as well Peter! See you in April. 

Dave NYC Hudson PRR K4 posted:

I was great, wasn't it Steve? I don't think we got introduced properly. One thing you will find out is that it doesn't matter if it's your first, or 30th, you will always get help, advice, friendship, or just casual conversation. Last October I talked to two older guys taking a breather. We had great talks about dogs, cars and growing up. Today when I was walking around some older guy was admiring my flight jacket. O bought it I think 13-14 years ago from a company I think in Ohio(where the guy was from) that was founded by a Vietnam Vet. I scatter brained on more information on that, but we talked a bit further and then went out separate ways. I talked probably as much today as each of the other days. Always find me talking to someone.

So true Dave! I had so many fabulous conversations and quite honestly that was the highlight of the trip.... the meeting of so many great folks... heading to see Steve of Mr Muffin when I’m in Indianapolis in a few weeks... A truly fabulous hobby. Hope to meet you if not in April then October.

It's so easy to suck these guys in.   Welcome back to the hobby.

Steve it was great to meet you and glad your York experience was great it makes all our lives and hobby experience so much richer!!!

I knew you would be impressed, Steve!!  I'm glad you had a great time!

Polarxpress3 posted:

Dave NYC Hudson PRR K4 posted:

I was great, wasn't it Steve? I don't think we got introduced properly. One thing you will find out is that it doesn't matter if it's your first, or 30th, you will always get help, advice, friendship, or just casual conversation. Last October I talked to two older guys taking a breather. We had great talks about dogs, cars and growing up. Today when I was walking around some older guy was admiring my flight jacket. O bought it I think 13-14 years ago from a company I think in Ohio(where the guy was from) that was founded by a Vietnam Vet. I scatter brained on more information on that, but we talked a bit further and then went out separate ways. I talked probably as much today as each of the other days. Always find me talking to someone.

So true Dave! I had so many fabulous conversations and quite honestly that was the highlight of the trip.... the meeting of so many great folks... heading to see Steve of Mr Muffin when I’m in Indianapolis in a few weeks... A truly fabulous hobby. Hope to meet you if not in April then October.

Well, a bunch of us were talking last night, so I will have to make sure I'm there both times a year. Peter will keep me in good form so I can. You can always count on Peter. I got to talk more with people I met last October and some new ones. I always have a great time regardless of what I buy or not, people make the hobby. Without the people it would be like odd grocery shopping.

Peter is a great advocate for the hobby.  I seemed to run into his happy greeting everywhere!!  

gunrunnerjohn posted:

It's so easy to suck these guys in.   Welcome back to the hobby.

Lol... truly was great spending time with you John. You have been one of the most helpful. Really appreciate it. See you in April!

dk122trains posted:

Steve it was great to meet you and glad your York experience was great it makes all our lives and hobby experience so much richer!!!

Thank you Don! Great meeting you as well... see you in April.

Polarxpress3 posted:

gunrunnerjohn posted:

It's so easy to suck these guys in.   Welcome back to the hobby.

Lol... truly was great spending time with you John. You have been one of the most helpful. Really appreciate it. See you in April!

We'll be looking for progress pictures.

Did I meet you?

Steve

Welcome back, too bad our paths did not cross this  week. As you are from Cincinnati you have a GREAT source of O-Gauge knowledge and some really GREAT layouts in your back yard. If you have not already done so make sure to purchase OGR video :" Great Layout Adventures Vol.11. Both Bob Bartizek and Bill Bramledge are true ambassadors of the hobby.

Dave, your Flight jacket is from US Wings in Hudson, Ohio. Owned by SGT. David Hack.  I own a few of his myself.

Steve,

You were warned in advance from the naysayers of how bad York is, what a horrible bunch of folks you will meet, no one there with train knowledge and the extremely high prices. Glad we sucked you into having such a bad York experience. Was it all worth it?

Great meeting you at Quaker state lube later on that night with my friend Alex and the rest of NJ hirailers. I laughed when you said that you spent 6 hours in the orange hall. There is only another 2,000 tables to see elsewhere. You did good and got around to see the sheer size of York madness.

It's well worth the TCA membership! Hope you had a safe trip back home and back into the hobby. If you have questions about using gargraves, our club built our layout with that and hand-made the curves with wooden forms. Give me a shout with any questions there.

Well, I also went to York for the first time since I was 17, let's say its been a while....

Anyway only had time to go Friday during the day, and my lovely wife came along! 

I poured through the primer as best I could but there really wasn't a description I saw of the sign in process - a little long but not too bad...  I have heard people talk about the badge holders, but last time I was there as a guest it was a just a sticker if i remember right.  The guards were quite fanatical about checking for badges as you went from one building to the next, particularly as the wind was twisting them around.

We had a good time cruising the blue and silver halls, Then hit purple, got some lunch, and headed to the all important orange hall to see the manufacturer displays.  The only things I am looking for are some mth/lionel tinplate traditions in o gauge that I was reasonably sure I wasn't going to find, but it was fun looking.  The most interesting take home piece I found was an adorable little hornby clock work set. The hornby along with several other small pieces was being sold by a lovely older woman and her husband, thinning out the collection.  My wife found a Flyer 3211 caboose with curly Q couplers that looks great for $20.

Being able to see some things in person was a big help, in particular I see an ets purchase in my future. As for the big two, the mth booth was very nice.  I got to say hi to Midge in person, and got the deal of the century, lifetime catalog mailings for a one time $5 fee.  The display was neat the company principals, including Mike Wolfe were very friendly.

The lionel booth display was pretty neat, but the feeling was totally different.  Every time some one wearing a Lionel shirt opened their mouth the first words were "better than mth..."  When you have to mention your competitor in the opening line of your sales pitch it makes the customer wonder.  So anyway  as I was looking around a tall heavy set man was handing out bags of catalogs to every man who entered his space.  When my wife went to get one he said hello but made absolutely no move to give her one.  it was pretty clear to my wife that he wasn't going to hand her one.  Now being a good sport when I was done window shopping she suggested I grab one.  Since the bags were just sitting out on the table ready to go I did.  As we were going to the next spot i was immediately distracted by the sensory overload of things ni the room to look at, and I didn't know about the little interaction she just had.  She was sure to grab the gentleman's eye as we walked away and asked him "Do you think I am ordering anything for Christmas for him out that catalog now?"  This got him several looks.  I just don't get why she wasn't treated like any other potential customer for that interaction.  

Anyway we had to leave about 2 to get home in time to grab the first kiddo off the school bus.

Overall, parking was easy, the aisles were reasonably sized.  The people saying "sorry" or "excuse me" while working around outnumbered any ill manners by 20 to 1 or better.  Sellers were helpful and understanding as well.  We probably only saw 60% of what was one display, and that was one time through.  No wonder this show is a multi day experience.  That being said I didn't see tons of purchasing going on and the crowds at times were almost sparse, even though the parking lot was jammed.  

I will probably be back when I can schedule it.  more than anything I want to do more of the social stuff, like the dcs presentation on Wednesday, the ogr forum dinner on Thursday and the grandstand meeting. 

Also special thanks to AL from Millhouse River studios, who was there demonstrating his new rotary dumper.  He would have gone on for another half hour if we let him

Well, he already bought an April York pass, that has to tell you something.

Wow Steve, what a recap of your awesome experience.  I plan on going to York for the first time in April and after reading your post and other threads about the meet that just ended, I can't wait, and wish it was next month.  I'm already looking at flights/car rentals to Baltimore and Philadelphia along with accommodations.  Can't think of a better way to spend my birthday (April 24th) than at York and meeting many of my internet friends in person for the first time.

Glad you enjoyed your first of many visits I'm sure.

jhz563 posted:

........................  I have heard people talk about the badge holders, but last time I was there as a guest it was a just a sticker if i remember right.  ..........

As best I could tell from a brief check of my old badges/holders, I think it changed in October 2005 or April 2006 (I didn't see October 2005 in my pile at first glance, so I don't know if that was a sticker or a card - but April 2005 was the old sticker and April 2006 was a card).

While some may have bristled at the badge holders at first, I think they were a great improvement.  The old stickers many people were trying to use safety pins to tack them onto their shirt or jacket, and that could be difficult depending on the fabric.  The "stickyness" of the sticker might not be great for 3 days, it was probably less of an issue for the old (and now future ) schedule of just 2 days.

Sorry long digression.  The newer cards are also much larger printing and easier to see names as people walk around.

-Dave

Dave45681 posted:

jhz563 posted:

 

Sorry long digression.  The newer cards are also much larger printing and easier to see names as people walk around.

-Dave

 

Friday I received my orange Lionel bag with catalog from a LCCA gentleman.  I'm sorry that Mrs. Jhz563 was offended by someone's gesture.   

I couldn't get close to Mike at the MTH booth so I'm glad you had the opportunity.  

I might add that Amy  Fry is a wonderful representative for TC A  and  TC A Eastern both. Thanks to Amy on Thursday morning at membership and registration.

I too agree that the larger print is a great idea.  I cannot hear very well in the crowded halls so the large printed names are a godsend for me.  It made my attendance most enjoyable. Especially with the members vendors.

My wife commented that they should print the state you are from on your badge and I tend to agree. It would be fun to see where everyone comes from. What do you guys think?

I personally would have no issue with that.  However, there are folks that are pretty private, and they might take exception to releasing even that kind of information. 

After all, everyone already knows that I come from Mars.

I’m with John on both counts.  I don’t mind sharing my state, but others are more private.  Also, I am from Mars; Mars Pennsylvania that is.  I’m a grad of Mars High School. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

I agree it would be nice to see, at least, the state a person is from. At least I was able to get my forum name on mine. 

jhz563 posted:

Also special thanks to AL from Millhouse River studios, who was there demonstrating his new rotary dumper.  He would have gone on for another half hour if we let him

Thanks jhz563 it was great meeting you and your wife. Maybe next York I can take you up on the visit to see the prototype dumper.

Polarxpress3 posted:

I arrived Wednesday evening during a monsoon of a rainstorm. Checked in, and headed over to the DCS users dinner. Not there 10 minutes and met Bryant and his lovely wife.... 10 minutes into meeting him, he had a pen and paper out already  giving me ideas when I told him what I was planning on doing. I have made a new train friend in Bryant for sure. Dinner and the conversations were truly fabulous. Dave Hikel and his presentation took me down a road of realizing how much fun I am going to have creating my new train layout. I had the pleasure of getting to know Dave over these last few days, and he has been truly helpful with his recommendations and advice. Will be leaning on him as I build. He was one of MANY who have convinced me to sell all my fast track and get ross switches and gargrave track. Boy did I learn fast on what are some of the musts when doing a real layout.

Thursday breakfast was fun...fabulous pancakes and again, terrific train conversations with now "new friends".  Finally when 12pm Thursday arrived, I started my day in the Orange hall and ended there as well.... you know why? I NEVER left!! 6 hours in one hall....drinking out of a fire hose for sure. 

One of the bigger investments I made at York was with Mianne. Talk about a terrific guy and patience of a saint... Tim was truly amazing in helping me design my bench work. When it was all said and done I have him building a 15x12 bench to start with. Will be arriving end of November. Truly can not wait to get started. Met so many great vendors, JTs Mega steam, Mike Reagan from Trainworx, Carmen Mauceri from Hobo Junction,Dave from Hikel layouts, Dennis Brennan and so many more! 

Finally got to meet Alex Malliae who I have been speaking to on here for a few years now. He introduced me to so many at the meet and we had so many great laughs! Too many new friends to name here... look forward to keeping in touch with all of you. 

What can I say about the guys of OGR.  I practically tackled Allan Miller in the parking lot when I introduced myself as one of his biggest fans and how I have truly been enjoying his stories over the years. He and I spoke quite a bit over these last few days. A true gentleman and always smiling!  Jim Barrett, and I are both living in the Cincinnati area and are sure to get together when he does with others in the area to talk trains.. spent some time with him as well and took some notes as he shared many ideas. Allan Arnold shared some wonderful stories and ideas with me as well... especially his story when he brought a "PT cruiser" to his first York and tried to fit all his purchase in that "monster" of a car...lol. ..and finally Ed Boyle.. what a funny guy with his stories and a terrific MC during the OGR presentation on Friday.

What can I say.... I have been on and off in this hobby for many years, almost gave it all up 6 months ago.... and then I said lets go to York and see what happens.... 3 days later .... new friends.... great stories... knowledge that was shared.... and a pre registration for the April show. Thanks for making my 1st York a truly memorable one!  See you guys in April and right her on the OGR forum. Can't wait to get started on my new layout!!! 

I missed you post and very kind words.  Looking at your list of people you visited, they are high quality business owners, as I have done business with most of them.  Tim Foley's benchwork will be a lot of fun and addictive.  It is like putting a model together (just one more piece).  At 2 in the morning when you are done, make sure you wake up your wife to share the excitement.  Be prepared to run...

I look forward to seeing you next October Steve.  I will be at the Wyndham on Louck Rd. next time.  Our B&B has transitioned to a point to go elsewhere.

Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:

Polarxpress3 posted:

I arrived Wednesday evening during a monsoon of a rainstorm. Checked in, and headed over to the DCS users dinner. Not there 10 minutes and met Bryant and his lovely wife.... 10 minutes into meeting him, he had a pen and paper out already  giving me ideas when I told him what I was planning on doing. I have made a new train friend in Bryant for sure. Dinner and the conversations were truly fabulous. Dave Hikel and his presentation took me down a road of realizing how much fun I am going to have creating my new train layout. I had the pleasure of getting to know Dave over these last few days, and he has been truly helpful with his recommendations and advice. Will be leaning on him as I build. He was one of MANY who have convinced me to sell all my fast track and get ross switches and gargrave track. Boy did I learn fast on what are some of the musts when doing a real layout.

Thursday breakfast was fun...fabulous pancakes and again, terrific train conversations with now "new friends".  Finally when 12pm Thursday arrived, I started my day in the Orange hall and ended there as well.... you know why? I NEVER left!! 6 hours in one hall....drinking out of a fire hose for sure. 

One of the bigger investments I made at York was with Mianne. Talk about a terrific guy and patience of a saint... Tim was truly amazing in helping me design my bench work. When it was all said and done I have him building a 15x12 bench to start with. Will be arriving end of November. Truly can not wait to get started. Met so many great vendors, JTs Mega steam, Mike Reagan from Trainworx, Carmen Mauceri from Hobo Junction,Dave from Hikel layouts, Dennis Brennan and so many more! 

Finally got to meet Alex Malliae who I have been speaking to on here for a few years now. He introduced me to so many at the meet and we had so many great laughs! Too many new friends to name here... look forward to keeping in touch with all of you. 

What can I say about the guys of OGR.  I practically tackled Allan Miller in the parking lot when I introduced myself as one of his biggest fans and how I have truly been enjoying his stories over the years. He and I spoke quite a bit over these last few days. A true gentleman and always smiling!  Jim Barrett, and I are both living in the Cincinnati area and are sure to get together when he does with others in the area to talk trains.. spent some time with him as well and took some notes as he shared many ideas. Allan Arnold shared some wonderful stories and ideas with me as well... especially his story when he brought a "PT cruiser" to his first York and tried to fit all his purchase in that "monster" of a car...lol. ..and finally Ed Boyle.. what a funny guy with his stories and a terrific MC during the OGR presentation on Friday.

What can I say.... I have been on and off in this hobby for many years, almost gave it all up 6 months ago.... and then I said lets go to York and see what happens.... 3 days later .... new friends.... great stories... knowledge that was shared.... and a pre registration for the April show. Thanks for making my 1st York a truly memorable one!  See you guys in April and right her on the OGR forum. Can't wait to get started on my new layout!!! 

I missed you post and very kind words.  Looking at your list of people you visited, they are high quality business owners, as I have done business with most of them.  Tim Foley's benchwork will be a lot of fun and addictive.  It is like putting a model together (just one more piece).  At 2 in the morning when you are done, make sure you wake up your wife to share the excitement.  Be prepared to run...

I look forward to seeing you next October Steve.  I will be at the Wyndham on Louck Rd. next time.  Our B&B has transitioned to a point to go elsewhere.

Thanks Bryant! I will keep you posted on my progress as well. Should have my delivery from Tim by end of November.Can't Wait! 

Steve, You won't be disappointed when you get your delivery from Tim!  You will be surprised at what small packages he crms everything in!!