11-9-07

Peter Shavney's presidents report 11/9/07

Now that our successful 19^th annual train show is history, progress is beginning to show itself in many areas of our fine model railroad. Our smooth track work helped us to set a new record this past Friday. With a single Yellowstone on the head end, we pulled 132 ore cars around the entire layout even backing it on the mainline to reenter the Jefferson yard. After tunnel portal clearances are widened it might be possible to run up to Summit and return with a suitable pusher to avoid the possibility of a run away. I’ve also added a new heavy CB&Q 0-8-0 steam switcher to the Shavney roster to be based in either Springfield or Jefferson yard as required.

As agreed at the MPC meeting, the switches in Springfield Yard with some exceptions will be shortened to #6 with number eights retained on mainline tracks. Other recommendations of the MPC include hand throws except for inaccessible areas and a new switching arrangement near the entrance to the mountain division.

With the Christmas public operating season almost upon us, Please concentrate on scenery and track improvements that will not tie up the mainline for long periods of time.

Remember that the ban on younger junior members (below 12) operating on the mountain division is still in affect. Remember that when you come down from Summit and reenter the mainline, that you are running reverse traffic and this has been the cause of several operating problems. It also recommended that even new adult members especially new probationary members not operate on the mountain division until their operating skill has been approved by the Vice President Operations.