By Al Babinsky, Photos by Al Babinsky
MMR Gene Swanson opened the clinic and wished all a Happy New Year. There were 49 attendees and no newcomers. Several announcements were made about the Science Center Show this weekend and that the PNR nominations committee is looking for volunteers. Dave Fausette, the nominating committee chair, is seeking nominees for both President and Vice-President. 4D Superintendent Ken Liesse is also seeking nominees for positions in the 4th Division. Jim Sabol who suggested that whoever stopped at Tacoma Trains put some money in a can in order to purchase a train set or two for a needy child. Bill Deutscher from Tacoma Trains reported that $165 was collected and the money spent to give sets to several children. They received two thank you letters, which were read at the clinic.
What’s New at the Hobby Shop was presented by Bill Deutscher with many new items from a wide variety of manufacturers.
In the Model of the Month category we had a number of entries: Dale Kraus with a mostly scratchbuilt sanding tower and coaling facility; Tony Dell a works in progress Milwaukee Road Bridge near Avery, ID; Walt Huston with two entries a HO scale scratchbuilt tree and 4 N scale bulkhead flat cars, 3 with load and 1 empty; Jim Sabol with two O scale passenger cars by Atlas; and Kurt Laidlaw with an N scale winter scene layout built to wrap around a stove pipe. The Model of the Month winner was Kurt Laidlaw with his winter scene layout.
We were also treated with tip on how to make a no-glue box for storing rolling stock and other things made from recycled cereal boxes.
This month clinic on mines and mining was presented by Duane Damgaard. He put together a slide show from photos he had taken on trips some 30 years ago along with some archival photos of mines, mining equipment, mining rail equipment, and structures.
Next month’s clinic on February 9th will be freight yard design by Jim Sabol, and will be at our usual place in the Pierce County Library Bldg. at the corner of 112th St. and Waller Rd. We hope to see you there and bring a newcomer, friend, spouse or significant other and find out what’s going on.
Model of the Month winner Kurt Laidlaw with his winter scene layout
Tony Dell’s bridge near Avery, ID with photo of the actual bridge
Walt Houston’s HO scratch built tree
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