Dennis Hill

Since June is the last meeting on most of the Clinics’ schedules, we begin to think of summer activities. The first day of summer is officially June 21st. Graduations and family activities kick in after school is out.

We are railroad-directed during the summer months whenever we can be. Some are planning and preparing for their trip to the NMRA National Convention in Milwaukee. It is the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the NMRA and a big celebration is planned. Some will stay closer to home and do weekend or day trips to railroad locations nearby. Whatever you plan is up to you! If you are thinking of doing something train-related, please show your support by doing it now.

Many railroad facilities are run by volunteers and the majority of the funding comes from people like you. The Garden Railway groups will gather in Tacoma for their 26th Annual Convention, August 3–8. Information at NGRC2010.com.

Don’t forget the PNR Convention in September, Cascadian International 2010. It starts with the PNR Board of Directors meeting on the 15th, takes off on the 16th and 17th, and concludes with an Awards Banquet the evening of the 18th. At only $40 for the basic fare, plus $35 for the banquet, the prices are very reasonable and the best deal in years. Some tours cost extra, but we have strived to keep our prices as low as possible.

The PNR membership meeting, on September 17th (the Friday morning of the convention) is open to all NMRA members. If you are not an NMRA member and have not been for over two years, a Rail Pass six-month membership costs only $9.95. You must be a member of the NMRA in order to attend the convention. There are over thirty clinics planned, prototype tours, layout open houses, contests and our Saturday banquet, as well as layout open houses before and after the convention. Our banquet guest speaker is John White, who helped create the concrete railroad tie. Please send in your registration as soon as possible so your spot won’t be filled by someone else.

Happy rails to all!