There’s so much more to this hobby than just “building trains in your basement!” There are train shows to go to – or in our case, host. Why do we host a train show every year? I have asked the board that question several times over the last decade. There is a lot of time, money and stress involved in doing one of these events. If it were up to me we would not. We risk losing money and it is very stressful. We do it for you. The “You” is fourfold. First, to have a place for modular clubs to set up their layout. We know there are limited opportunities to set up your modular model railroad that you work hard creating and want to run trains on and also share what you have done with others. Second, we are ambassadors to The World’s Greatest Hobby. The general public have “little to none” layout of their own and enjoy seeing our model railroads and having fun with trains. Third is for our division members. By hopefully making a little bit of money we can continue running the programs we have in place. Some years we have lost a lot of money. We are constantly evaluating how we do things to mitigate that. Fourth is for the vendors by giving them an opportunity to be able to reach more people for their sales.
This year was unique in that we were able to hold it in the same facility where real trains are made! What an incredible opportunity. We asked the clubs to help staff certain tasks related to running the show. We do not charge clubs to be there so this was their way of helping to make it a great show! I was very pleased with all the participation. A huge thank you to all who helped make it a great show! I know when I am just running on my own layout there is sometimes good interaction with the public but when staffing a table there are often more opportunities for better interactions. There was one little kid who literally was crying when he had to leave. His dad brought him back and he was so happy. It is a great feeling when a random dad who is there with their kids comes up and thanks us for putting on the show so they can have fun. We are ambassadors to model railroading and that is why I continue to be involved year after year. Shows like this are how we can enjoy the journey together!
Jim Wanlass, MMR #585
Superintendent
Northern Utah Division of the NMRA