Greetings fellow Western Kentucky Chapter, National Railway Historical Society members. And here we find ourselves in 2018. I keep searching for an app on my phone that says “slow down time”! I have yet to find it, if you do please, let me know!
On a sad note, we lost friend and model train aficionado Jim Bengert last month. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. The January 2018 meeting will be held in the former train station in downtown Madisonville. We have been away from there for at least two years during a building renovation. Innovation Station as the structure is now called has been completely rebuilt and re-purposed. Madisonville Hopkins County Economic Development Corporation President Ray Hagerman will be my guest speaker. Ray will enlighten us to the changes, needs and future of our favorite train station.
Keep in mind our new officers will take office this month as well with the only change being Bill Farrell assuming the role of treasurer and secretary.
As I am sure you are aware by now, I took measures to cancel the Christmas show last month. Bill Farrell had a serious medical scare and I did not want to place any undue stress on him. Being as Bill is truly 90 percent of the Christmas show, I felt it to be a necessary move.
The breakfast with Santa event was held December 16, 2017 and was well received. Bill will have a full report on same as well as the raffle.
The only old business I have is a reminder to pay dues. National as well as Chapter dues are…well..DUE! One can pay National Dues online with a credit card or via check. Chapter dues are to be paid to Bill Farrell by check or cash. In one of the National publications there was a note stating in the future National dues can be paid through the Chapter. That option is not yet available.
New Business will address our meeting space, Program idea’s, Chapter trips etc. Etc. being anything the membership wishes to bring before the Chapter. Bill Farrell has suggested we drop the raffle as a fundraiser. Once he has presented the results of the Breakfast with Santa, Photos with the Polar Express Characters and the raffle, we will discuss this option.
As always, Members can step up with programs, ideas and suggestions. Trips trackside or to a museum etc. This is train enthusiast group…let us make 2018 another banner year.
Ricky Bivins, President