by Ricky Bivins, Chapter President
Hello again NRHS Members, August thus far has yet to follow up July’s heat record. For me that is a good thing. But none the less, August has been a good month for the Western Kentucky Chapter. Madisonville held the last Friday Night Live street fair for the 2012 season and it was a roaring success. Cool temps, clear skies and people combined for a great evening. Dr. Bill Thomas outdid himself again with the Mobil Garden Railroad. Bill stepped up to the plate with a three tier Gauge One layout! Yes, three levels of trains were running all night much to the delight of children and adults as well. Thomas the Tank Engine is instantly recognized by everyone, The Egg Liner was a curiosity and the “old steam train” as I heard more than once was a hit. I was surprised to hear a little boy about 8 years old tell a parent about the “old steam train” and how he liked it best. Perhaps our hobby has a future after all!
As for old business, the trip to Progress Rail in Mayfield KY. is on hold pending a set date. Rich Hane will have a full report this month. The trip to Paducah and the NRHS Chapter Museum will coincide with the Mayfield trip. I will have more information concerning a possible display at the Parkway Plaza Mall during the Christmas Season. Wallace Henderson will update us on changes and effects of change as pertains to the National Organization. A National dues increase is on the horizon. Argh! But, it takes money to run a business or charity or a special interest group.
Kudos to Thomas Bryan. Thomas presented a program follow up to his presentation from last year’s visit to Rail Camp. We were treated to several photos and interesting insight to a rail scene few will ever have the privilege to see. Thomas held the audience for the better part of an hour with his photos and commentary. Several members were able to chime in and give info about various equipment in the shop area photos. It is easy to imagine the sights and sounds Steam Town has to offer not to mention the glory years when the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad ran their steam power through those very shops.
Gary Ostland….do you remember Gary? GOO as he is known on the internet is planning to show slides as my guest in November of this year. The date is not set. I will open the City Airport to rail fans for a slide show Gary says will be vintage shots from the Pacific Northwest. If you recall, Gary gave us a grand show of Milwaukee Road from the 1960’s earlier this year.
OK Members, get up and out on meeting night and attend. Bring a guest.