Hi All!
For past 8-9 years, I've been posting about the Model Railroad Jamboree held by Division 2 (Keystone Division) of NMRA's Mid-Central Region. This set of clinics takes place on a saturday in April in Pittsburgh. This year's event was held on Saturday, April 26 on the campus of Robert Morris University. I attended (drove to Pittsburgh on Friday night from York).
I attended the following hour-long clinics (others listed at the end):
DCC Basics - An Intro to Digital Command Control (Dennis Lippert)
This was a very useful entry-level discussion of this non O gauge standard command system. The major players in the market, the also-rans, costs, capabilities, tips for installation, and resources were presented. Extremely useful for those trying to navigate a first installation. [I have to design an HO system which is why I was there.]
Building a Layout with Steel, Foam, and Doors (Paul Lapointe)
This presentation described a number of non-standard, lightweight building techniques designed to be used by a 1 man construction team. Steel ribbing, free-standing backdrops, and other innovations were discussed. Very useful.
The Modernization of Main Street (Jim Sacco)
This fascinating look into how and why businesses on Main Street were modernized in the 1930s was presented by the owner of City Classics (an HO structure manufacturer). I now understand why some of the Ameritowne building fronts look so funky - they're accurate! Materials, motive, and photos of the prototypes made for a very informative and useful presentation. I learned a lot!
Getting Started in Operation (Bob Weinheimer)
This presentation hit topics like layout design, fleet make-up, operational considerations, train schedules, and selection of eras and locations. Another well done and useful clinic - especially for those about to embark on their next layout.
Modeling the Middle Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad (Neal Schorr)
This clinic, by our own PRRMiddleDivision forum member, was a compelling look at both the scenery of the area and the decisions that resulted in this spectacular world class layout. If you've ever seen Neal's layout, you know what I'm talking about! The talk was full of good advice and tips for Pennsy and non-Pennsy modelers alike.
Running Locomotive NKP 765 (Russ Puzausky)
Russ, a certified NS locomotive engineer, talked about the experience of being involved with piloting the NS fan and exployee trips over the past 2 years. He also discussed operating the locomotive over the former Pittsburgh and Middle Divisions of the PRR and issues involved. Fascinating talk!
The other clinics (there were 2 parallel tracks) were:
Pan Pastels - Another Tool for Colorization (Gary Carmichael)
Update on the Nickel Plate (Tony Koester)
Five Men and Their Critter - Tips on Scratchbuilding and Kitbashing with Plastic (Sam Swanson)
Favorite Highway Vehicles (Mont Switzer)
Weathering 201 (John Gallagher)
B&O West End Division from Cumberland to Grafton (Keith DeVault)
In addition to these clinics, there was an operating layout room, model contests, white elephant sale, raffles for tons of stuff in all scales, and they fed you a continental breakfast and a great buffet lunch. For an extra charge, there was a terrific banquet with Tony Koester as the dinner speaker. $47 well spent!
I hope you will consider attending this event next year. It's really hard to find a better bargain in model railroading whatever scale you model.
George
