'Tis the model railroading season

November is often thought of as the end of any chance of warm weather and abundant sunshine. While this may be true, it also marks the increase of some exciting things taking place indoors. All these exciting things are related to the hobby of model railroading, what else.

November is the first month that contains a significant increase in the number of train shows, swap meets, and model railroad club open houses. These events can be a great experience not only for the seasoned model railroad enthusiast, but also for the uninitiated. Taking family and friends to a model railroading event may gain new members to our hobby. It was at one such show that I became a quantified rail geek for life. (No matter what you may have heard, that’s a good thing!)

Train events can also be a good source for charging those creative batteries — something all of us need from time to time. Seeing layouts in action can be a real inspiration, and give us the energy to go home and get to work.

Although held a few weeks before November, the National Model and Hobby Show is one event that helps mark the beginning of the indoor model railroading season. As you read this, I will be wrapping up MRN’s annual report on this national event. The coverage will be the highlight of our December issue. Again, the ever effervescent Stuart R. Thayer and I will cover the event, with the hopes that our visit to the Chicago area will be as memorable and enjoyable as last year.

In addition, MRN will be concluding our annual Holiday Train Set coverage in the December issue. This month’s issue begins that report. We have evaluated a number of different scale train sets from a variety of manufacturers with the sole aim of informing perspective purchasers of what is new and available in the ready-to-run train set market. This year’s report is sure to provide plenty of ideas for the Holiday season.

On a personal note, my No name and Pacific layout is undergoing a major plan revision, moving a number of turnouts to the front of the layout for better access. My goal of being able to run more than one train at once, while running a point to point local at the same time, is still feasible. In fact, running three trains simultaneously would not be far from possible. However, since I only have two hands and one brain, the thought of changing from conventional to digital control has crossed my mind.

Before any of you get into an uproar about MRN joining some elitist DCC club, relax. As is evident in our new Train Tech Forum, hosted by Danny Ritmann, MRN will always take a common user’s approach to any high tech subject. Any subject that is covered in MRN, including digital or computer control, will be written for those wanting nothing more than to enjoy their trains.

Some of you have expressed an interest in the No name and Pacific becoming a series of articles. The only thing I can say is that it is a remote possibility. I will certainly pass along any pertinent developments in the Editorial space, if nothing else. So until next month, don’t forget to take in one of those model railroading events — and take a friend.

—Michael J. Pratt Michael J. Pratt Managing Editor