EXTRA 2011 WEST
2011 NMRA National Convention
July 3 to 9, 2011 - Sacramento, California
The Unconventional Convention

Clinics Details

Last Minute Clinic Changes

printer icon Print This Page

Default display is ALL clinics in chronological order by date and time. Use the Selection Menu on the right to see specific clinics.

Sorry! Nothing matches your selection. Please try again.

Improving Waybills: Adapting Prototype Paperwork Sunday July 3 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tony Thompson Convention Center 312
The popular four-cycle waybill, used in many operating schemes, has the drawbacks that minimal prototype information is included, and that often the four cycles become a permanent feature for a particular car, never leaving the car card. An alternative approach based on prototype waybills is described, along with a discussion on what is useful for modeling in the prototype waybill. Prototype paperwork for car movement is described, and the use of the improved waybills in a layout operating scheme is presented and illustrated on the speaker's layout. Implementation methods, and gains in flexibility and realism, are emphasized. Updates from published accounts of this approach are also included.
OPSIG

So, You Want To Build a Sawmill Sunday July 3 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Jim Zeek Convention Center 309
Jim will discuss the various types of sawmills, their facilities and focuses on strategies for modeling. Before and during high school years I apprenticed for five summers learning the craft of saw filing for production operations under tutelage of my Father. The first two and two-thirds years at Oregon State University were in the College of Forestry in its Forest Products course of study and became my minor as I took my degree in Business Administration. After another four years of study I received a Masters Degree. During most of these years I worked as a laborer, heavy equipment and production machine operator first in a box factory and then in the woods and at the sawmill of Feather River Lumber Co, Loyalton, CA.. Following 20 years in professional occupations I entered building construction with my own business. My final formal employment ended with a 10 and a half years of service as quality control technician and production machine operator for Michigan-California Lumber Co. and its successor Sierra Pacific Industries, Camino Division. I now have an organic Farm in Camino, CA.

History and Description of the Sierra Railway Sunday July 3 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Dave Connery Convention Center 309
The Sierra Railway was built in 1897 to connect the Southern Pacific (and a bit later Santa Fe) Railroad with the mining towns in the Central Mother Lode region of California. This railroad continues to operate freight trains today and the original steam facilities are preserved as Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. The clinic will provide an overview of the railroad, its construction, connections, customers and status today.

Painless weathering Sunday July 3 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Joel Bragdon Convention Center 310
We will cover a broad range of weathering methods and materials including some traditional old favorites and some that are new or little known. Weathering wood, metal, plastic, paper and plaster for model cars, structures, details and scenery and much more will be demonstrated. Near the end of the clinic the attendees will be invited to try their hand with some of the materials and techniques that they have seen and leave the clinic with some samples.

Survey of Historic Sierra Railway Locomotives and Cars Sunday July 3 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Kyle Wyatt Convention Center 309
Kyle K. Wyatt, Curator of History & Technology for the California State Railroad Museum will discuss the motive power and rolling stock in use at the Sierra Railroad in Jamestown, California

The State Belt Railroad Sunday July 3 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Bill Kaufman Convention Center 312
The San Francisco Belt Railroad was a short-line railroad along the Embarcadero in San Francisco. It began as the State Belt Railroad in 1889, and was renamed when the city bought the Port of San Francisco in 1969. The railroad ceased operation in 1993. The railroad connected the Port of San Francisco to many waterfront docks and to industries and warehouses which were adjacent to the waterfront. It had 67 miles (108 km) of trackage and its general offices were in the Ferry Building. Its function was to switch railroad cars from four major railroads to points along its system and vice versa. At the southern portion of the line, a track along King Street (passing the location now occupied by AT&T Park) connected with the Southern Pacific. A train ferry slip at Pier 43 allowed interchange with the Northwestern Pacific, the Western Pacific, and the Atchison. Topeka & Santa Fe railroads. To reach its northern terminus in the Presidio, the line passed through Fisherman's Wharf, Aquatic Park, and a tunnel under Fort Mason.

Building A Laser Structure Kit Sunday July 3 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Lead Instructor: Kooning, Clark, MMR Sheraton Hotel: Bataglier

Join a team of Master Model Railroaders as they personally help you build a model. These hands-on sessions will run during the convention Monday through Thursday. Each session is 5 hours and will begin with a workshop on the project followed by a hands-on session during which you will build a model aided by a team of Master Model Railroaders who will assist you, answer your questions and share their modeling expertise, skills and techniques. When the session is finished you will be able to take your project home.

This clinic involves building a Laser Structure kit. Students will learn all the basic elements for building any laser kit.

Attendance is limited to 28 total students.

All students must bring the tools as listed on the tool list for each clinic. See http://www.x2011west.org/mwtm.html#mwtmtools for a list of tools

Cost is $48 for N & HO and $60 for S & for O $75
Modeling with the Masters

Hostling a Steam Locomotive Sunday July 3 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Dave Tadlock Convention Center 309
Comment: Dave Tadlock, a volunteer from Railtown 1897 in Jamestown will talk about the care and feeding of steam locomotives year round and what it's like to work inside the historic roundhouse. Dave is a hands-on interpreter with experience in all aspects of the Railtown experience, from being a conductor on passenger excursions, to hostling and firing the steam locomotives, to running both the steam and diesel locomotives during the tourist season. He also put in thousands of hours of mechanical maintenance on the steam locomotives as well as being known as the “car-knocker” for Railtown. For those who will be riding the train the following day Dave will also point out things to look for and other tips to make your Railtown 1897 experience more enjoyable.

Lighting & Digital Techniques for Layout Photography Sunday July 3 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Steve Crise Convention Center 312
Professional photographer Steve Crise will be conducting a live demonstration of lighting techniques for digital & film photography. A Q&A session will be at the end of the presentation.
Photography

Building Geodesic Foam Scenery Sunday July 3 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Joel Bragdon Convention Center 310
This two hour clinic is an in depth and comprehensive look at all aspects of building scenery from resin materials. A mountain railroad diorama will be built during the clinic from the bench-work up. Foam bench-work and roadbed, foam hard-shell and resin/foam rock casting will be demonstrated. Also, realistic coloring of rocks and scenery plus final detailing will be covered.

SP: Sacramento Shops Sunday July 3 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Bob Pecotich Convention Center 314
The Sacramento General Shops were the core of Southern Pacific's system-wide shops. With a need to be self-reliant in the Far West, Sacramento long maintained the capability to build any and every piece of equipment needed on the railroad. This included nearly 200 steam locomotives, over 500 completely rebuilt diesels, and a great many freight and passenger cars, along with many specialized pieces of equipment and, naturally, upgrades and rebuilds of almost anything on the railroad.
SP

Building A DPM Structure Monday July 4 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Lead Instructor: Hale, Fran MMR Sheraton Hotel: Bataglier

Get your seat for one of the most exciting NMRA programs. "Modeling with the Masters"! Join a team of Master Model Railroaders as they personally help you build a model. These hands-on sessions will run during the convention Monday through Thursday. Each session is 5 hours and will begin with a workshop on the project followed by a hands-on session during which you will build a model aided by a team of Master Model Railroaders who will assist you, answer your questions and share their modeling expertise, skills and techniques. When the session is finished you will be able to take your project home.

This clinic involves building a Design Preservation Models (DPM) building including details and signs. You might think you know how to build DPM kits but after you will know how.

Attendance is limited to 28 total students.

All students must bring the tools as listed on the tool list for each clinic. See http://www.x2011west.org/mwtm.html#mwtmtools for a list of tools

Cost is $48 for N & HO.
Modeling with the Masters

Creating Waybills and Car Cards with Excel Monday July 4 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Gary Saxton Convention Center 312
One of the more useful software products for railroad modelers is Microsoft Excel. It is ubiquitous, runs on many platforms and does some tasks exceptionally well. One good application is to generate car cards and waybills for operations. Two examples will demonstrate some possibilities. 1. Using Excel as a formatting tool. The user types in data and Excel prints the data in a desired format. 2. Using some of the power in Excel to feed data from the car inventory, origin and destination tables, town lists, routing tables and commodity carried tables coupled with the random number function to generate the waybill. A companion clinic covers other conventional and unconventional applications of Excel in model railroading.

DCC: Overview Monday July 4 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Jim Betz Convention Center 310
What is DCC? And what it isn't! This clinic is targetted to those of us who are still on the fence or who have newly installed DCC - and just want some help in understanding the basics of how DCC works and a few "best practices".
DCC, Intro

Finer than Fine Scale - Modeling Strong Maine in Proto 20.3n2 Monday July 4 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Jim Providenza Convention Center 314
Strong, Maine was a focal point of operations on the Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes, the largest of the Maine 2 foot gauge railroads. It was the junction with the major branch on the railroad, included engine servicing facilities, a lap siding and 7 industries including what was at the time the largest toothpick factory in the US. All this in 1700 linear feet.

Jim Providenza has been in HO Scale all his modeling life. Yet he has spent a good part of the last 5 years working on converting 40 actual linear feet of part of his backyard into a model of Strong, Me. in 1:20.3 proportion with a 2:1 lineal compression. Jim is building the railroad using exact prototype wheel and track dimensions (Proto 20.3n2). Follow along with Jim as he recounts the first part of what has become a very "interesting" and fulfilling journey. Jim will discuss the joys and tribulations of working in a minority scale/gauge combination where almost everything has to be scratchbuilt, kitbashed or extensively reworked. Topics will include research, developing standards, civil engineering "for real", the use of full size tools for modeling, metal shop and the importance of drainage and why glue is often "not good enough".
Narrow Gauge

Interfacing a Computer to Your Model Railroad Monday July 4 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 315
Bruce, the inventor of the Computer/Model Railroad Interface (C/MRI) explains how easy it is to interface a computer to your model railroad. Focus is on the Super Mini-Node that greatly improves I/O distribution and significantly reduces system cost. Up to 128 nodes can be distributed all around your layout making wiring a snap. Simply connect any device directly to the nearest node. Only wiring between nodes is a single 4-wire cable. Applications focus on reducing layout wiring, signaling systems, staging track control, and interfacing to DCC. The result can greatly increase your railroad's prototypical realism and hobby enjoyment.
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

Steel Strut Benchwork Monday July 4 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Eric Eggel Convention Center 319
When the Silicon Valley Lines began construction of their new layout in early 2000, the club decided to try some new construction techniques. Rather than using traditional benchwork, one of the members, a commercial builder, suggested that steel strut might be a great way to build the multi-deck layout benchwork quickly. Steel C-Channel is often generically referred to as strut and can be thought of as a giant erector set, and when combined with some other modular building techniques allowed the club to build a very sturdy two level layout very quickly.
http://www.siliconvalleylines.com/

Layout Design Boot Camp Monday July 4 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Byron Henderson Convention Center 309
Join Byron Henderson and other members of the NMRA's Layout Design SIG for an intensive session on track planning and layout design. Discover how to refine vision, concept, and purpose; select layout footprints and schematics; draw accurate and useful plans; create efficient and engaging yards and industrial areas; make best use of staging tracks; maintain space for people; and avoid common track planning errors. Whether your dream layout is strongly prototype-based, a creative freelanced theme, or somewhere in between, this practical session will give you the tools and best practices to design a great layout!
LDSIG

DCC: Installing Decoders Monday July 4 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Marcus Ammann Convention Center 310
DCC

Helping Boy Scouts Earn a Model Railroading Merit Badge Monday July 4 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
John Stevens Convention Center 315
A Round Table discussion of techniques that can be used to develop a successful BSA Railroading Merit Badge Program. We will examine the program that I run for the Piedmont Division in Atlanta as one example of a successful program and why it works for us. If you are thinking of developing a program or are already running a program, please stop by and join the discussion.
NMRA

Using Logistics to Develop a Model Railroad Operations Scheme Monday July 4 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Dustin Shoup Convention Center 312
Dustin will explain some thought processes to mesh real world logistics with planning prototypical operations. This clinic will approach planning ops from the stand point of moving goods and people on your layout not just moving cars. All levels of ops planning and intensity can be covered using this method. The techniques explained are applicable with most operations styles, eras, and even passenger service.
OPSIG

Welcome and Overview Monday July 4 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Non Rail Committee Convention Center 302/303
Join us as we reconnect with old friends, make new friends and learn about all the non-rail activities planned for the week. Refreshments will be served.
Non-Rail

Working Gemco: We Don't Need No Stinkin' Yardmaster Monday July 4 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Dave Bayless Convention Center 319
Dave is a railroad engineer who worked for many years in and around Southern Pacific's Gemco Yard in the Los Angeles area. Gemco was SP's support yard for General Motors' Van Nuys plant as well as a Budweiser brewery just up the line. Many locals were based out of Gemco and there were approximately 300 - 500 cars switched in the yard each day, all without a yardmaster to be found. Come learn how this was done and how to simulate this in a yard on your railroad.
OPSIG

SP: Sacramento Shops Monday July 4 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Bob Pecotich Convention Center 314
The Sacramento General Shops were the core of Southern Pacific's system-wide shops. With a need to be self-reliant in the Far West, Sacramento long maintained the capability to build any and every piece of equipment needed on the railroad. This included nearly 200 locomotives, and a great many freight and passenger cars, along with many specialized pieces of equipment and, naturally, upgrades and rebuilds of almost anything on the railroad.
SP

Card Making - fee required Monday July 4 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Suzy Madsen Convention Center 302/303
It's Tuesday night and you're getting ready for bed when you remember you have to send a birthday card in the mail the next day. Using items found around the house, we will be making four cards for all occasions (you choose) that will re-use old cards, photographs, ribbons, and gift wrap. All supplies provided including envelopes.
Non-Rail

DCC: Programming Decoders Monday July 4 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Jim Betz Convention Center 310
An introduction to the process of setting up a decoder. The focus will be on the use of DecoderPro (JMRI) to set the address, motor control, lights, and a simple approach to speed matching - and upon de-mystifying the concepts. This clinic is targetted to those who are relatively new to the topic and will -not- cover advanced topics. Programming sound decoders will be touched upon briefly.
DCC

Getting Down and Dirty with Weathering Monday July 4 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Leslie Eaton, MMR Convention Center 319
Join Leslie Eaton, MMR and learn a variety of techniques including airbrushing, dry brushing, using stencils, and the layering of colours to achieve prototypical results on your cars and structures. Weathering techniques for cars and structures and colour selection will be demonstrated. Airbrush techniques will also be demonstrated to blend and enhance scenery.

Regions and Divisions Handbook: What's in it for You? Monday July 4 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bill Kaufman Convention Center 315
The Regions and Divisions handbook has been in use for about a year. Come and find out what is in it for your Region or Division. Can you use any of the good ideas from other groups that it contains? Come and tell us what your experience has been using it.
NMRA

World Wide Model Railroad Tour Monday July 4 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Sing Convention Center 312
Look over John's shoulder as we go on a "you-are-there" fast-paced photo, movie, and multi-media tour of worldwide Americas, European, and Asian model and prototype railroad sites and people the world over. Enjoy the incredible diversity and interest. Gather ideas for future travels. Or just save the expense and watch here!

WW, European sites include: Miniature Wonderland, Hamburg 2007 - Narrow Gauge Live Steam, Saxony, Germany 2008 - The Deutsch Museum, Munich 2007 - Nuremburg Deutschbahn Museum - French TGV, Germany ICE - Gotthard Pass, Switzerland - Atlas Model RR HQ in NJ - Hawaii RR Museum, Oahu - Argentina has model railroading too! - Prototype industrial trackage you have to see to believe

Notable Hobby shops in countries around the world: - Visit to Japan Kato Showroom 2008 - Caboose Hobbies, Denver

Model RR Exhibitions and Conventions include: - Nottingham UK Model Railway Exhibition 2006 - US-themed Model RR Convention in Germany 2007 - Two largest N-Trak Layouts ever (2008 Louisville, 2004 Chantilly) - Amherst Model RR Show 2005 - Anaheim NMRA National Convention 2008

Famous Model RR clubs: - Glendale, Pasadena, Slim Gauge Guild, Belmont Shores - San Diego Model RR Museum - The Model RR Club, New Jersey - Washington State Museum's Puget Sound Model RR Engineers

World-class Layout Tours include: - John Armstrong - Jim Blattau - Paul Dolkos - Dick Patton

Aviation in Model Railroading Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Klaus Keil Convention Center 309
Klaus will explain ways of using model aviation equipment to create unique layout features and memorable flat car loads. In addition to presenting several small dioramas, the availability of ready to display aircraft models, kits, and appropriate tools will be discussed.

Central California Traction Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Dave Stanley Convention Center 312
A detailed overview of the Central California Traction Company, from its beginnings in 1905 to the modern railroad it is today. The talk, by Dave Stanley, modeler, former CCT employee, and co-author of the book "The Central California Traction Company," will touch on street car and interurban passenger service, electric and diesel freight operations, and model availability.

Judging The Model Contest Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Bob Hamm, MMR, National Contest Chair Convention Center 315
National Contest Chair Bob Hamm will take the audience through the process of model contest judging. This is a good orientation for new judges and a refresher course for the experienced veterans. Bob will cover what the contest is and is not, and will discuss how and when the evaluation of entries will be performed. Topics such as judging team structure, the point scoring system, and use of the AP Judging Guidelines will be described in detail. We intend the clinic to be interactive and time permitting we will be happy to discuss any contest issues that folks would like to bring up.
NMRA

NMRANET Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Didrik Voss, MMR Convention Center 310
NMRANET(TM) is an independent bus to the DCC bus for the control of accessories (turnouts, signals, lights) on a layout and does not impact the responsiveness of locomotive control on the DCC bus. This clinic will describe the 'Producer/Consumer' approach used in the control of accessories (turnouts, signals, lights) on the layout and demonstrate its application. The P/C model provides a powerful ability of control multiple accessories with one simple command. NMRANET uses the same technology found in control systems for factories and other industrial applications.
Electronics, Signals

Project Linus Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Susan Swindell Convention Center 302/303

We will be working with this National Organization that provides security blankets to children in need. Visit their website at www.projectlinus.org for more information.

Blankets can be made ahead of time and brought with you, or you can make quilt squares and we will put them together at the convention. Blankets can be quilted, tied, knitted, crocheted or fleece. Bring all your quilt squares and we will make some security blankets for children in need. This will be an ongoing project all week, so stop by often and lend a hand.

There will be a presentation at the Event on Saturday night of all the blankets made by our group.
http://www.projectlinus.org
Non-Rail

SP Freight Cars You Can Model Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tony Thompson Convention Center 314
This talk presents examples of models from kits and kit conversions in HO scale that represent important SP freight cars for the steam-diesel transition era. All types of cars, from flats and gondolas to box, tank and hopper cars and cabooses, are included. The focus is on accurate and reasonable representations of each prototype car, not of museum-quality modeling. Some information on car usage is also included. A handout summarizes the car classes and commercial model(s) used as the basis for each car.
SP

Yosemite Valley Railroad Monday July 4 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Jack Burgess, MMR Convention Center 319
Those who research railroads in the era from the late 1930s to the late 1940s tend to think of these railroads in black and white due to the limited color photography of the period. But there were some railfans of the era who put up with slow, ASA 10 film speed to record their favorite prototypes in color. This presentation by Yosemite Valley Railroad expert Jack Burgess, author of "Trains to Yosemite", a book on the YVRR, will take viewers on a gorgeous trip on the YVRR from Merced to El Portal on the western boundary of Yosemite National Park using some his favorite color and B/W images of the railroad.

Building a White Metal Vehicle Kit Monday July 4 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Lead Instructor: Kooning, Clark MMR Sheraton Hotel: Bataglier

Get your seat for one of the most exciting NMRA programs. "Modeling with the Masters"! Join a team of Master Model Railroaders as they personally help you build a model. These hands-on sessions will run during the convention Monday through Thursday. Each session is 5 hours and will begin with a workshop on the project followed by a hands-on session during which you will build a model aided by a team of Master Model Railroaders who will assist you, answer your questions and share their modeling expertise, skills and techniques. When the session is finished you will be able to take your project home.

This clinic involves building a white metal vehicle and painting it. You will learn how to assembly these very detailed kits, including what glues to use

Attendance is limited to 28 total students.

All students must bring the tools as listed on the tool list for each clinic. See http://www.x2011west.org/mwtm.html#mwtmtools for a list of tools

Cost is $50 for N & $65 for HO.
Modeling with the Masters

A Clinic on Scenery (which everyone knows how to do) Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
John Wissinger, MMR Convention Center 312
The clinic will show a unique way to make a river or lake (not poured), form basic land forms using extruded styrofoam insulation board, how to use craft papier mache to form land and rock formations, paint the scenery using artists acrylic paints, model a realistic forest and finish a road. Photos show real scenery and how John models them on his HO model railroads.

John Wissinger has been in the hobby since 1954, has been an NMRA member since 1970 and has lived in several regions and divisions across the Midwest and California. He has held offices in divisions, regions and at the national level. He is an NMRA life member and is Master Model Roader #99. He has given clinics at local division meets, regional and national conventions and has written articles for MR, RMC, Trolley Talk and Model railroad planning. He currently lives in Michigan and models in HO Interurban and Steam railroads in 1938.

Scenery

Layout Design for Passenger Operations Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Robert Clark Convention Center 309
Track plans for passenger train oriented layouts suggest how passenger terminals and main line layout design elements can be pulled together. Layout design elements such as turning arrangements, express and mail facilities, and coach yard requirements such as car washers, servicing platforms, Pullman and commissary buildings, and craft shops will be covered. Main line elements include junctions for merging and splitting of trains, and through stations with setouts will be discussed also.
LDSIG

Model Railroading with Arduino: Introduction Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
John Plocher and Dave Falkenburg Convention Center 310
Arduino is an open-source electronics prototyping platform based on flexible, easy-to-use hardware and software. It's intended for artists, designers, hobbyists, and anyone interested in creating interactive objects or environments. A little programmable computer platform designed help people "make things go."
Electronics

Modeling an Anthracite Road: Why, Where, When, What, etc. Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Jim Dalberg Convention Center 319
Jim Dalberg will be presenting presenting his clinic on modeling an Anthracite Road, in either the anthracite Era, or as these roads later developed.

Modeling the Sacramento Belt Line Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
William Burg Convention Center 315

Passenger Cars of the Colorado & Southern Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Ken Martin Convention Center 314
Ken Martin, one of the authors of Colorado & Southern Freight and Passenger Cars (Narrow Gauge Pictorial, VIII (8)) will discuss the passenger car equipment of the C&S.
Narrow Gauge

The Art of Illusion Monday July 4 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
CJ Riley, MMR Convention Center 302/303
A photographic exploration of the philosophy and methods of creating a more believable model railroad through careful consideration of what is needed for that elusive "sense of rightness". Subjects such as planning, backdrops, mirrors, bridges and other subjects that help to elevate the level of realism of modeling. Magician's tricks such as sleight of hand and distraction are covered. Soon to be a book published by Signature Press.

Gentle Yoga for Beginners Monday July 4 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Lori Neumann & Linda Thepot Sheraton Hotel: Falor
Do you think that you're not flexible enough, not strong enough or just not able to do yoga? Do you struggle to crawl on the floor when visiting layouts that have duck-unders? Then this class is for you! Come and experience a beginning class where you will learn how to do basic poses that show you how to stand correctly so you don't feel back pain, how to get a good stretch of your hamstrings, and how to relax. Wear loose fitting clothes that you feel comfortable moving around in. The class is taught in the Iyengar tradition, which is yoga that can be practiced by anyone and emphasizes precision and correct alignment in the postures. Taught by Lori Neumann and Linda Thepot, who just completed their 200-hour teacher training at the Iyengar Institute of San Francisco.
Non-Rail

Five Strands of Narrow Gauge History Monday July 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Bill Schaumburg Convention Center 312
The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Then and Now
Narrow Gauge

Images of Speed: Streamlined Steam Locomotives Monday July 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
CJ Riley, MMR Convention Center 302/303
A presentation of the art of streamlining steam locomotives, begun in the 1930's as an attempt at modernism and to compete with the new diesel-electric powered streamliners. Photos of examples both elegant and bizarre are shown as the concept evolved from “inverted bath tubs” of the Commodore Vanderbilt to the elegance of the SP's Daylights and the C&O's Chessie, a steam turbine powered streamlined passenger train that was an early victim of the post WWII collapse of the passenger train.

Layout Design Panel: What Would you do Differently? Monday July 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Seth Neumann, and others Convention Center 315
Join a panel of Operating Layout Owners as they discuss lessons learned from their layouts and what they plan to do differently. Some of these owners are building new layouts based on their experiences with previous layouts. Moderated by Layout Design Special Interest Group (LDSIG) President, Seth Neumann.
LDSIG

Model Railroading with Arduino: Applications Monday July 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
John Plocher Convention Center 310
A follow-on to the introduction, this clinic will outline specific examples of how an Arduino and expansion "shields" can be used to animate your layout, create sophisticated control panels, or even interface with commercial DCC systems, C/MRI, and other computers using JMRI.
Electronics, Signals

Proto:87 in 2011 Monday July 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Rene Gourley Convention Center 309
Rene Gourley will speak about the state of Proto:87 today. After a brief look back at our humble beginnings, we will explore the products and knowledge that is available today and have a look at some of the great modeling here and overseas. We will close with some speculation on where we might go from here.

SP: Diesels Monday July 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Joe Strapac Convention Center 314
SP

Avoiding Pitfalls of Model Railroad Photography Monday July 4 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Charlie Comstock Convention Center 315
Charlie Comstock, winner of the MR Photography contest in 2000 will talk about taking photos your models. In this clinic, he'll concentrate on avoiding the common goofs - just say no to flash photography (unless you're Winston Link), get your white balance right, what is depth of field and why should you care? Got grain(iness) and how to get rid of it. Lighting, lighting, and lighting - the three most important things in photography. Setting a scene for interest. What is focal length and what can it do for you? Focus bracketing - how to get prototype depth of field in your photos with post processing. Making photos believable - send the company helicopter back to the hangar... Special effects - fog and nighttime.
Photography

Layout Design Tricks Monday July 4 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Jim Betz Convention Center 309
This clinic is a slide presentation focusing on the ways you can make your layout -look- bigger thru the use of subtle scenery, trackage, and structure techniques. The target audience is - any one who is interested in ways to make a layout "look better".
LDSIG

OpenLCB Monday July 4 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bob Jacobsen Convention Center 310
OpenLCB is an open community of model railroad, electronics and software hobbyists to create new electronics for controlling model railroads. We are creating a layout control bus (LCB) that connects boards & programs. The result is easy to use, customizable, and brings new capabilities to model railroaders.

This clinic describes what we've accomplished so far, where we're going, and how you can get involved. Come see how modern tools can make many types of layout controls easier & more reliable.
http://openlcb.org
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

Pacific Fruit Express Operations Monday July 4 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tony Thompson Convention Center 314
Produce shipping was a complex business. The major operators of refrigerator cars, like PFE, handled and distributed cars in quite specific ways. These ranged from returning and cleaning empty cars, to icing and loading them, and then moving them to the destinations of their loads. The clinic summarizes these operations, focussing on the ice refrigeration era. In each topic area, modeling points to be gained from the prototype are emphasized, and are summarized in a handout.
SP

Building Geodesic Foam Scenery Monday July 4 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Joel Bragdon Convention Center 319
This is an in depth and comprehensive look at all aspects of building scenery from resin materials. A mountain railroad diorama will be built during the clinic from the bench-work up. Foam bench-work and roadbed, foam hard-shell and resin/foam rock casting will be demonstrated. Also, realistic coloring of rocks and scenery plus final detailing will be covered.

LED Lighting Effects for your Layout Monday July 4 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Edward Gallier Convention Center 312
Edward spent about several months experimenting with using LEDs to create lighting effects with his third exhibition layout. He will discuss a variety of techniques for using multi-color realistic day-night-day LED lighting as well as creating special effects such as lighting.
Electronics

Sunset Valley Oregon System and Grand Rails 2012 Monday July 4 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 309
The SVOS occupies 2600 sqft with up to 4 decks. Its dominate roll is maximizing prototypical fidelity and operations. Based upon specific prototypes, over 1000 structures are being constructed along with 150 feet of bridges and trestles. It’s a monumental project with over 1400 feet of main/branch line trackage modeling 10 prototype railroads in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Chubb explains how the teamwork of 38 associates is pulling together to have the system ready for the 2012 NMRA National in Grand Rapids where it will be on tour all day every day throughout the convention. In addition to the 38 regular scheduled tours, Bruce explains how the SVOS id setting up to host a 12-hour pre-convention operating session.
NMRA, LDSIG

JMRI Users Meeting Monday July 4 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Bob Jacobsen Convention Center 310
JMRI, including DecoderPro and PanelPro, is a free software package for model railroaders to use in our great hobby. Whether you are new to JMRI, or an experienced JMRI user, please come to hear about in-progress developments, suggest new things, and meet others in the JMRI community. After a Q&A session focused on new and coming JMRI features, the floor will be open for general questions and suggestions related to all areas of JMRI.
Electronics, Signals

Building Plastic Walthers Modular Buildings Tuesday July 5 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Lead Instructor: Lowrance, John, MMR Sheraton Hotel: Bataglier

This clinic will cover the basics of preparing, gluing and painting plastic as participants construct a custom city structure.

Attendance is limited to total of 28 students in N & HO scales only.

Cost of clinic $48. N or HO only.

All students must bring the tools as listed on the tool list for each clinic. See http://www.x2011west.org/mwtm.html#mwtmtools for a list of tools

Thanks to the generous donation of the modular parts by Walthers Inc.
Modeling with the Masters

A Day in the Life of a Train Dispatcher Tuesday July 5 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Retired SP-UP Dispatcher Steve "Breezy" Gust Convention Center 309
OPSIG

Building your own Signals Tuesday July 5 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
David Metal Convention Center 314
This clinic provides detailed instruction on building and wiring a signal using a commercial signal target, some brass tube and some plastic shapes. Results in a nice working signal for less than $8.00.
Electronics, Signals

Creating a Web site for your Layout Tuesday July 5 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
John Sing Convention Center 310

Wanting to join the Internet and put up a web site for your layout, but not sure where to start? Professional IBM Consultant John Sing is here to deliver a clinic on developing and implementing your own Model Railroad Web Site(s). Anyone will benefit, this clinic is designed for everyone - you don'thave to be a Internet expert! In fact, doing a web site.... it's a lot like designing a model railroad. :-)

Everyone can do this!

You can literally be up and running your own web page as soon as you get home from Convention. You might even be doing your web site this evening from your hotel room. No kidding! We'll show you how. :-)

We'll take an entertaining, easy-to-understand look at the following:

1. What's possible with Model RR web sites? Who's doing what locally? 2. What should my "Givens & Druthers" be for my web site?

http://macrodyn.com/ldsig/wiki/index.php?title=Using_Givens_and_Druthers_to_guide_the_process

3. What are my web site options? (from Easy to Advanced). Lots of options 4. What is my easy step-by-step list of things to do? Easy steps 5. Examples / resources of what you can do today!

You'll see many examples, including how the Pacific Coast Region, Coast Division quarterly web site gets built.

http://www.pcrnmra.org/coast/contest/Contest_March_2010.shtml

It's not as hard as you think! *You* can do it!

(As a supplement, you're welcome to review John's previous clinic on Photographing Railroad Models): http://home.comcast.net/~atsf_arizona/John_Sings_Photographing_Railroad_Models_John_Sing_v23.pdf

Modeling California Packing Houses Tuesday July 5 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Jim Lancaster Convention Center 312
Packing Houses were once a fixture of California, part of a citrus and produce industry that was a key source of railroad revenue. Jim Lancaster and Bill Messecar will discuss prototype packing houses along the SP and Santa Fe, as well as model packing houses and modeling techniques.

Overhead Wiring Engineering Tuesday July 5 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Gurdon Miller Convention Center 315
Realistic operating catenary is possible! Gurdon Miller will do a hands on demonstration of techniques to illustrate the basic concepts of tensioning, zig-zag, and pulling-off on curves to keep the wire within range of the pantograph. Although his models are based on a Swiss prototype, the principles are universal to all overhead wiring.

Lighting & Digital Techniques for Layout Photography Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Steve Crise Convention Center 314
Professional photographer Steve Crise will be conducting a live demonstration of lighting techniques for digital & film photography. A Q&A session will be at the end of the presentation.
Photography

Modeling an Anthracite Road: Why, Where, When, What, etc. Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jim Dalberg Convention Center 319
Jim Dalberg will be presenting presenting his clinic on modeling an Anthracite Road, in either the anthracite Era, or as these roads later developed.

Multi-deck Layout Design Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Tony Koester, ALWWD Convention Center 310
Model Railroad Planning editor and NMRA director Tony Koester will discuss the design and construction of multi-deck model railroads with emphasis on their advantages and potential liabilities as well as why good lighting is critical to a successful design.
LDSIG

Streamlined Trains in California Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Paul Hobbs Convention Center 315
Beginning in 1936 California was witness to an interesting variety of streamlined passenger trains, some of the finest in the land. We will discuss the routes and unique features of the trains operated by several well-known railroads serving the Golden State, through to the introduction of Amtrak in 1971.

The NWP--a Prototype With Something for Every Modeler Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Fred Codoni Convention Center 312
NWP

Welcome and Overview Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Non Rail Committee Convention Center 302/303
Join us as we reconnect with old friends, make new friends and learn about all the non-rail activities planned for the week. Refreshments will be served.
Non-Rail

Introduction to Time Table and Train Order Dispatching Tuesday July 5 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Dave Clemens Convention Center 309
Timetable and Train Order (TT&TO) can be an arcane game of chess or a useful and challenging tool establishing authority to occupy the main track and move trains across your railroad. This clinic will describe the elements of TT&TO, illustrate the use of those tools, then put "live" users through the paces of trying to get over the road against the clock, timetable and traffic. Presented in two parts, the first half is the mundane details, followed by participant led examples. The approach is "hands on", so come and expect to be called on to participate. We learn from experience, and the best experience is in the "deep end of the pool". Come jump in!
OPSIG

Napkin Folding Demonstration Tuesday July 5 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hyatt Hotel: Regency F
Do you have envy when you eat in a restaurant where the napkins are folded in intricate ways? Come and learn how this is done. We will have one of the banquet captains from the Hyatt show us how this is done.
Non-Rail

Card Stock Structures Tuesday July 5 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Scott Robertson Convention Center 314

From Basement to Benchwork Tuesday July 5 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rich Coleman Convention Center 319
Rich Coleman will share methods for building wooden benchwork. He'll explain some tried and true techniques, and unique ways of applying them. Rather than just presenting construction “in a vacuum,” Rich will use his own layout as a case study. Various forms of L-girder, open grid, and plywood techniques will be discussed, including the use of spline roadbed, integrating work surfaces and car card boxes. Most importantly, Rich will share his lessons learned from triumphs and mistakes along the way.

NWP: Restoring Wooden Railroad Cars Tuesday July 5 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Gus Campagna Convention Center 312
The Northwestern Pacific Railroad Historical Society is restoring 3 wood railcars. An 1899 caboose originally built in Sacramento and later sold to the Petaluma & Santa Rosa Railroad. A 1892 baggage car built in Tiburon for the SF&NP. And a 1869 Coach originally purchased from Wason Car Company by the Central Pacific. All three are currently in Petaluma CA, the caboose is almost finished. Gus will show in-service, recovery from former locations, and reconstruction photos. The cars will be on Tour on Wendesday.
NWP

Passenger Trains in California 1971 - 2011 Tuesday July 5 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Paul Hobbs Convention Center 315
Paul Hobbs will discuss Amtrak's impact on passenger service as well as commuter trains and light rail developments in the golden state.

The Sierra Railroad: Modeling and Operating a Shortline Tuesday July 5 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Zach Convention Center 310
John Zach will discuss the "Why's and How's" of modeling and operating a shortline railroad, using his own HO Scale Sierra Railroad 1955 as an example. This HO scale model railroad is based on the Sierra Railroad that started its long and glorious history in 1897 and is still in operation today. The time frame for the layout is the Spring of 1955 when the first diesels (Baldwin S-12s) arrive on the railroad and the logging railroads of the Pickering and WSLCo are still going strong. Currently we move 180 cars per operating session. This includes cars on the SP and ATSF that interchange with the Sierra or have a destination in Oakdale. It does not count the Passenger cars of the Sierra or the SP or the 56 log cars of the Pickering Railroad or any of the WSLCo equipment. More than once the comment has been made that if the Sierra moved as many cars as we do they would have never filed bankruptcy or had any financial problems.
http://www.sierrarailroad55.com
OPSIG

NWP Operations adapted to Eel River Model RR Tuesday July 5 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Ron Plies, MMR and Don Nelson Convention Center 312
NWP

Scenery Techniques for Your Railroad Tuesday July 5 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Charlie Comstock Convention Center 319
Charlie Comstock, editor of Model Railroad Hobbyist Magazine, will present various scenery techniques he's been developing on his own layout. Topics will range from the importance of believable scenery, to tips and tricks for detailing your track work and creating backdrops.
Scenery

The World of DCC and Sound Tuesday July 5 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Jarrette Ireland (Soundtraxx) Convention Center 314
Operating a layout has never been more rewarding than this day and age thanks to all of the available options in DCC and sound. Now locomotives can be run by themselves not by the track and can have the correct sound to match. This clinic will cover an overview of how DCC works, what it takes to get started and a look at some of the impressive sound options currently offered on the market including the new Surroundtraxx layout system.
DCC

Understanding Steam Locomotive Details Tuesday July 5 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Andy Sperandeo Convention Center 315
An expansion of his March 2007 Model Railroader article of the same name, Andy will explain the external appliances and piping of steam locomotives in terms of six major systems: water supply, fuel supply, steam distribution, sand for traction, air brakes, and electric lighting. The primary example is Santa Fe 4-8-4 no. 3751, with some other locomotives shown to illustrate variations.

Modern Verbal Authority (Track Warrants) Tuesday July 5 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Retired SP-UP Dispatcher Steve "Breezy" Gust Convention Center 309
Modern Verbal Authority (Track Warrant Control)
OPSIG

Scratchbuilding Car Loads For Your Freight Cars Tuesday July 5 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Lead Instructor: Hale, Miles, MMR Sheraton Hotel: Bataglier

Join a team of Master Model Railroaders as they personally help you build a model. These hands-on sessions will run during the convention Monday through Thursday. Each session is 5 hours and will begin with a workshop on the project followed by a hands-on session during which you will build a model aided by a team of Master Model Railroaders who will assist you, answer your questions and share their modeling expertise, skills and techniques. When the session is finished you will be able to take your project home.

In this clinic you will scratchbuild three different "loads" for a freight car. In addition to this, you will learn some basic weathering skills to be applied to the freight car, which will be supplied to you.

All students must also bring the tools as listed on the tool list for each clinic. See http://www.x2011west.org/mwtm.html#mwtmtools for a list of tools

Attendance is limited to 28 students. Cost is $48 for N and HO.
Modeling with the Masters

Introduction to Free-mo Tuesday July 5 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Bob Schrempp Convention Center 310

Free-mo:More than just a standard

The objective of the Free-mo Standard is to provide a platform for prototype modeling in a flexible, modular environment. Free-mo modules not only provide track to operate realistic models, but also emphasize realistic, plausible scenery; realistic, reliable trackwork; and operations. Free-Mo was designed to and continues to push the envelope of modular model railroading to new heights. It goes beyond the traditional closed-loop set-up in creating a truly universal "free-form" modular design that is operations oriented and heavily influenced by prototype railroading.

This clinic will go over the basic parts of the Free-mo Standard. There will be time for questions and answers about the standards.

Pen & Ink Drawing with JoAnn White - fee required Tuesday July 5 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
JoAnn White Convention Center 302/303
Learn the basic strokes used in pen and ink drawing. Practice the strokes by adding details to a simple train scene. Complete a picture of a rabbit using two of the basic strokes. No experience needed.
Non-Rail

Prototypical Operation of the Tsunami Steam Decoder Tuesday July 5 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Jarrette Ireland (Soundtraxx) Convention Center 314
This exciting and informative clinic will cover all of the sounds found in the steam Tsunami and how they relate to a real steam locomotive. After an over view of the sounds we will examine setting up our decoder to match a specific prototype and then examine using the sounds and functions of the Tsunami to enhance an operating session. At the end will be a short Q&A period for all those in attendance.
DCC

Quick and Easy Freight Car Weathering Tuesday July 5 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Roger Nulton, MMR Convention Center 315
Get more satisfaction from those ready to run and shake the box models with all that fine detail, shiny paint and perfect lettering applied in the People’s Republic of China! Add your personal touch to your freight car fleet, without scratchbuilding or super detailing, by imitating the effects of time and nature. No prototype cars last long out of the paint shop before the weathering process begins. This clinic will show how to use oil paint washes and other cheap and easy methods, without an airbrush, to improve the realism of your layout. Techniques learned from the model railroad press and from trial and error over the past 45 years will be discussed in this clinic.
NASG

SP: Diesels Tuesday July 5 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Joe Strapac Convention Center 319
SP

OPSig Roundtable Tuesday July 5 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Dave Bayless, Seth Neumann, Phil Monat Convention Center 309
Join in with other SIG members and anyone interested in railroad operations, both model and prototype in a moderated discussion of operation topics. Based on the lively discussions seen on the OPSig Email Discussion List and continuing the very successful and highly attended round table forums hosted by the OPSig held at various PCR region conventions, we'll select several topics to review as a group. Dave is a locomotive engineer now with UP, hired on with SP out of LA in 1977 and has worked under most operating schemes used by the railroads. Seth is Vice President of the Operations SIG and an accomplished, veteran operator and coordinator of many operations events, will be there to help moderate, offer support and direction to the discussions. This will be the first time this forum is held at a National NMRA convention. These forums are a place to exchange ideas, make new friends or renew acquaintances, ask questions of other knowledgeable modelers and/or prototype railroaders that may be present, and discuss operating possibilities, procedures, rules and applications to your model railroad! We'll continue where layout design leaves off and move into how to operate our layouts as we discuss a number of issues focused on Operations significance and relevance. All convention attendees are welcome!
OPSIG

Avoiding Pitfalls of Model Railroad Photography Tuesday July 5 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Charlie Comstock Convention Center 319
Charlie Comstock, winner of the MR Photography contest in 2000 will talk about taking photos your models. In this clinic, he'll concentrate on avoiding the common goofs - just say no to flash photography (unless you're Winston Link), get your white balance right, what is depth of field and why should you care? Got grain(iness) and how to get rid of it. Lighting, lighting, and lighting - the three most important things in photography. Setting a scene for interest. What is focal length and what can it do for you? Focus bracketing - how to get prototype depth of field in your photos with post processing. Making photos believable - send the company helicopter back to the hangar... Special effects - fog and nighttime.
Photography

Cadillacs and Crummies: Recreating the NWP in a modest space Tuesday July 5 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Ed Merrin Convention Center 312
NWP

Free-mo Modular Signal System Tuesday July 5 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Barry Draper Convention Center 310
Beginning around 2004 the members of Northern California Free-mo and San Luis Obispo Free-mo wanted to add block signals to their modules. Lead by Gregg Fuhriman they developed what has become know as the Modular Signal System, or MSS. The goal was to have an inexpensive system that could provide basic Automatic Block Signals on the modules. It had to meet two requirements: No modification to rolling stock (no resistance wheelsets), and modules must be able to be assembled in any order and direction. Stop by and learn about the ingenious system that has met and exceeded these goals, and can be used with any module system or on permanent layouts.
Signals

Gardening Workshop Tuesday July 5 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Nancy Norris Convention Center 302/303
Nancy Norris, of www.gardenlines.net will share her expertise about gardening and garden railway landscaping with us and also give us a pruning demonstration.
http://www.gardenlines.net
Non-Rail

Prototypical Operation of the Diesel Tsunami Decoder Tuesday July 5 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
George Bogatiuk (Soundtraxx) Convention Center 314
This exciting and informative clinic will cover all of the sounds found in the diesel Tsunami and they relate to a diesel locmotive. After an overview of the sound found in every diesel Tsunami we will examine setting up our decoder to match a specific prototype and then examine using the sounds and functions of the Tsunami to enhance an operating session. At the end will be a short Q&A period for all those in attendance.
DCC

Use and Abuse of Excel in Model Railroading Tuesday July 5 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Gary Saxton Convention Center 315
One of the more useful software products for railroad modelers is Microsoft Excel. It is ubiquitous, runs on many platforms and does some tasks exceptionally well. It can also be pushed, stretched and abused to do some modeling tasks not considered part of its usual repertoire. This clinic will highlight timetables and string diagrams, track schematics, bridge and trestle plans, paper doll buildings and other miscellaneous tasks that can be handled by Excel. A companion clinic demonstrates a couple of Excel base car card and waybill systems.

CTC Panel with Dispatchers and Signalmen Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Steve Gust, Pat Flynn, Don Zinnecker, Jim Atkins Convention Center 314
As part of the SIG sponsored Dispatching clinic track, retired dispatcher Steve Gust has assembled a panel of active and retired train dispatchers and signal technicians to discuss design and operation of Centralized Traffic Control (CTC or TCS) systems as seen from the "Big Chair" and from the field. Topics will include Interlocking Plant rules, system design, dispatching strategy and questions from the audience. These guys are the real deal and a question answered here is worth a thousand speculative messages on the chat lists! Be sure to also attend UP Engineer Dave Bayless' roundtable on rules for more straight talk from real railroaders.
OPSIG

Five Strands of Narrow Gauge History Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bill Schaumburg Convention Center 315
The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Then and Now
Narrow Gauge

Make it Run Like a Dream Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Joe Fugate Convention Center 310
Learn the secrets of getting the best "quality of run" from your layout operation so that your layout operates with optimum reliability. Hear the successes and failures from seasoned modeler Joe Fugate, whose HO Siskiyou Line layout has been in operation now for 20 years.

Modeling the Sacramento Belt Line Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
William Burg Convention Center 309

Painless weathering Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Joel Bragdon Convention Center 319
We will cover a broad range of weathering methods and materials including some traditional old favorites and some that are new or little known. Weathering wood, metal, plastic, paper and plaster for model cars, structures, details and scenery and much more will be demonstrated. Near the end of the clinic the attendees will be invited to try their hand with some of the materials and techniques that they have seen and leave the clinic with some samples.

So, You Want To Build a Sawmill Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Jim Zeek Convention Center 312
Jim will discuss the various types of sawmills, their facilities and focuses on strategies for modeling. Before and during high school years I apprenticed for five summers learning the craft of saw filing for production operations under tutelage of my Father. The first two and two-thirds years at Oregon State University were in the College of Forestry in its Forest Products course of study and became my minor as I took my degree in Business Administration. After another four years of study I received a Masters Degree. During most of these years I worked as a laborer, heavy equipment and production machine operator first in a box factory and then in the woods and at the sawmill of Feather River Lumber Co, Loyalton, CA.. Following 20 years in professional occupations I entered building construction with my own business. My final formal employment ended with a 10 and a half years of service as quality control technician and production machine operator for Michigan-California Lumber Co. and its successor Sierra Pacific Industries, Camino Division. I now have an organic Farm in Camino, CA.

Bingo Tuesday July 5 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Convention Center 302/303
Come out and play this old favorite. Learn some new ways to play as well as the standards. Prizes will be awarded.
Non-Rail

Mold making and casting for the model maker Tuesday July 5 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Joel Bragdon Convention Center 319
This clinic and will cover making a variety of types RTV rubber molds for reproducing detail parts, cars, vehicles, structures or almost anything. One piece, multi piece and split molds will be demonstrated. Casting with a variety of materials will be shown including fast curing space age, safe and odorless, polymer resins. Over two hundred sample molds and castings will be shown to illustrate the great number of options.

A Clinic on Scenery (which everyone knows how to do) Wednesday July 6 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
John Wissinger, MMR Convention Center 312
The clinic will show a unique way to make a river or lake (not poured), form basic land forms using extruded styrofoam insulation board, how to use craft papier mache to form land and rock formations, paint the scenery using artists acrylic paints, model a realistic forest and finish a road. Photos show real scenery and how John models them on his HO model railroads.

John Wissinger has been in the hobby since 1954, has been an NMRA member since 1970 and has lived in several regions and divisions across the Midwest and California. He has held offices in divisions, regions and at the national level. He is an NMRA life member and is Master Model Roader #99. He has given clinics at local division meets, regional and national conventions and has written articles for MR, RMC, Trolley Talk and Model railroad planning. He currently lives in Michigan and models in HO Interurban and Steam railroads in 1938.

Scenery

Creating Waybills and Car Cards with Excel Wednesday July 6 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Gary Saxton Convention Center 315
One of the more useful software products for railroad modelers is Microsoft Excel. It is ubiquitous, runs on many platforms and does some tasks exceptionally well. One good application is to generate car cards and waybills for operations. Two examples will demonstrate some possibilities. 1. Using Excel as a formatting tool. The user types in data and Excel prints the data in a desired format. 2. Using some of the power in Excel to feed data from the car inventory, origin and destination tables, town lists, routing tables and commodity carried tables coupled with the random number function to generate the waybill. A companion clinic covers other conventional and unconventional applications of Excel in model railroading.

Interfacing a Computer to Your Model Railroad Wednesday July 6 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 314
Bruce, the inventor of the Computer/Model Railroad Interface (C/MRI) explains how easy it is to interface a computer to your model railroad. Focus is on the Super Mini-Node that greatly improves I/O distribution and significantly reduces system cost. Up to 128 nodes can be distributed all around your layout making wiring a snap. Simply connect any device directly to the nearest node. Only wiring between nodes is a single 4-wire cable. Applications focus on reducing layout wiring, signaling systems, staging track control, and interfacing to DCC. The result can greatly increase your railroad's prototypical realism and hobby enjoyment.
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

Troubleshooting and Repairing Brass Steam Locomotives Wednesday July 6 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Mark Schutzer Convention Center 309
Older brass steam locomotives have a reputation for running poorly. This clinic will discuss the common problems and show you how to fix them. A step by step example of a locomotive repair will be illustrated. This clinic is tailored to the beginner who wants learn how to improve the running of those cranky steam locomotives.

Building A Turnout Using A Commercial Fixture Wednesday July 6 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Lead Instructor: Kooning, Clark, MMR Sheraton Hotel: Bataglier

Get your seat for one of the most exciting NMRA programs. "Modeling with the Masters"! Join a team of Master Model Railroaders as they personally help you build a model. These hands-on sessions will run during the convention Monday through Thursday. Each session is 5 hours and will begin with a workshop on the project followed by a hands-on session during which you will build a model aided by a team of Master Model Railroaders who will assist you, answer your questions and share their modeling expertise, skills and techniques. When the session is finished you will be able to take your project home.

This clinic involves building a turnout from scratch using a commercial fixture from Fastracks.

Attendance is limited to 28 total students.

All students must bring the tools as listed on the tool list for each clinic. See http://www.x2011west.org/mwtm.html#mwtmtools for a list of tools

Cost is $45 for N, HO, HOn3, S, Sn3,On30, and O
Modeling with the Masters

A Brief History of the American Gas Station and Modeling Tips Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jim Sacco Convention Center 314
The title pretty much says it all. Clinic includes a photo history of the gas station in North America, followed by some tips that may help modelers build a more realistic model of one. It concludes with a look at common, unusual or just plain wacky gas stations. Sit back, relax and enjoy the photos!

Introduction to Genealogy Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Lisa Gorrell Convention Center 302/303
Been excited by the TV show "Who Do You Think You Are?" Want to know more about how to do this popular hobby of genealogy? Come learn how to get started. This will be a hands-on experience filling out Family Group Sheets and Ancestry Charts. You will also get a list of websites that will help you at home.
Non-Rail

Making "Ready-to-Run" Freight Car Models Really Ready to Run Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Richard Hendrickson Convention Center 315
In recent years, a dramatic shift has taken place in freight car modeling: the replacement of kits by assembled "ready-to-run" models. The best of these models are, on the whole, well made, prototypically accurate and highly detailed. However, are they really "ready-to-run"? In this Power Point clinic, cars offered by several different manufacturers will be shown as they came out of the box and then as they appear when ready to put on the track of a prototypically realistic layout. I'll describe the process of making improvements and adding appropriate aging and weathering which make them truly layout-ready. The models themselves will be on display in the RPM room.

Rebuilding Brass locomotives Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Mark Schutzer Convention Center 309
This clinic will show you how to turn older brass loco’s into great runners that will silently creep down the track. Re-motoring and re-gearing will be discussed and illustrated in detail. Topics include motor and gearbox selection, motor mount construction, and the use of universal joint couplings.

Running an NMRA Division Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Ed Liesse and Didrik Voss Convention Center 319
NMRA

The World of DCC and Sound Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jarrette Ireland (Soundtraxx) Convention Center 312
Operating a layout has never been more rewarding than this day and age thanks to all of the available options in DCC and sound. Now locomotives can be run by themselves not by the track and can have the correct sound to match. This clinic will cover an overview of how DCC works, what it takes to get started and a look at some of the impressive sound options currently offered on the market including the new Surroundtraxx layout system.
DCC

35 Years on the Sacramento Central Wednesday July 6 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Dick Witzens Convention Center 310
The story of the Sacramento Modular Railroaders and their club railroad, the Sacramento Central. For about 35 years, SMR has been an innovative group. We've been doing switchlist operations for many years, on a modular layout that changes at each setup.. We've developed lightweight, versatile modules that can combine quickly into railroads of many sizes (up to 40 by 60 feet or more), and of many shapes. For example, our main switchyard can be 30 or 36 feet long, in either a straight through or Tee configuration. Typical layout setup time runs about 1 1/2 hours, and is done without tools. Learn how we do this and more, how we've lasted that long, and are still at it. We'll be featured in an early 2011 article in Model Railroader, and come see us at the National Train Show during the convention.

Aviation in Model Railroading Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Klaus Keil Convention Center 315
Klaus will explain ways of using model aviation equipment to create unique layout features and memorable flat car loads. In addition to presenting several small dioramas, the availability of ready to display aircraft models, kits, and appropriate tools will be discussed.

Choosing, Using, Maintaining, and Troubleshooting Your Airbrush Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Ken Schlotfeldt Convention Center 302/303
This seminar will familiarize attendees with airbrush terminology and types, explain their differences, guide attendees regarding which type of airbrush is best for each finishing application they may desire to do, present useful air source/air hose/air regulator/other air source related accessory information, discuss varying media/paint types and preparations, present useful airbrush accessories information, and provide simple basic airbrush cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting instruction. Ken Schlotfeldt is the President of Badger Air-Brush Co. and is a Christian. Ken has been in the airbrush manufacturing industry for over 30 years. He has designed, assembled, tested, sold, packed, shipped, serviced, and used airbrushes extensively during his industry tenure. Ken has presented over 100 seminars on airbrushing to numerous national organizations, including NAMTA, NRHSA, NMRA, AMPS, IPMS, RBA, NFDA, SEMA, NTA, IBS and others. (Ask him if you’d like to know what organizations these are). He’s been married to a wonderful woman going on 24 years, and they have three wonderful children. Ken loves airbrushes/airbrushing and helping air-brushers enjoy a successful airbrush experience through having good knowledge and information related to selecting, using, and maintaining their airbrush.

Division Meets the NMRA British Region Way Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Nobby Clarke Convention Center 319
NMRA

LED Lighting Effects for your Layout Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Edward Gallier Convention Center 309
Edward spent about several months experimenting with using LEDs to create lighting effects with his third exhibition layout. He will discuss a variety of techniques for using multi-color realistic day-night-day LED lighting as well as creating special effects such as lighting.
Electronics

Modeling Newport News, VA on the C&O Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Roberts Convention Center 310

Prototypical Operation of the Tsunami Steam Decoder Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Jarrette Ireland (Soundtraxx) Convention Center 312
This exciting and informative clinic will cover all of the sounds found in the steam Tsunami and how they relate to a real steam locomotive. After an over view of the sounds we will examine setting up our decoder to match a specific prototype and then examine using the sounds and functions of the Tsunami to enhance an operating session. At the end will be a short Q&A period for all those in attendance.
DCC

Update on the Nickel Plate Wednesday July 6 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Tony Koester, ALWWD Convention Center 314
Model Railroader contributing editor Tony Koester will review the myriad advancements in the hobby since he designed, built, and operated his well-known Allegheny Midland, including DCC, scenic materials, track construction, multi-deck/narrow-shelf design, and photo backdrops (including the dramatic advantages offered by photo-editing software such as Photoshop Elements), and recent developments in train-dispatching and car-forwarding systems.
LDSIG

3D Printing for Everyone Wednesday July 6 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Rene Gourley Convention Center 314
Rapid Prototyping has been in the dreams of model railroaders for over twenty years. As the cost comes down and the quality goes up, the technology is finally nearly ready for us. Rene Gourley will speak about getting a first model printed, the process for developing the design and obtaining the model, and the finishing that was required.

Building Scenery for your Railroad by Woodland Scenics Wednesday July 6 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Miles & Fran Hale, MMR Convention Center 315
This clinic starts from the terrain up to show you magically how easy and fun it is to model ground cover, bushes, grasses, weeds, and trees for your layout. Learn simple blending and layering techniques that provide ultimate realism as you add both color and texture to your layout. The clinic is designed to help you begin a new layout or add finishing touches to an existing one. Landscaping is easy and almost magic when done the Woodland Scenics way. Come and let Fran and Miles make you a magician.
Scenery

Disney Railroading Wednesday July 6 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
John & Katie Olson Convention Center 319
John Olson was recruited by Walt Disney Imagineering in 1974 when Mike O'Connell (owner of Chooch Enterprises) was working there as a show writer, and producing a film on model railroading for Kalmbach Publishing, which featured a few of John's dioramas. John began with Disney as a model builder, and soon branched into production design and field art direction for the Disney Theme Parks. Katie, a Disney Scholarship winner, joined Disney shortly after John as a model painter and color designer. Together they have worked on too many Disney Theme Parks to name! Before joining Disney, John worked closely with folks like Tom Daniel, Leo Campbell, and Fred Hill, among other manufacturers and retailers. Also at time, John began publishing with Kalmbach, Carstens, Narrow Gauge Gazette, and of course the NMRA Bulletin. John will be sharing memories of those days. Given the fact that Walt Disney himself was a huge rail fan, trains are ever-present in the Disney vocabulary. Over the years there they have worked with several famous Disney characters, such as Ward Kimball (Grizzly Flats RR), Harper Goff (Great Locomotive Chase art director), Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston (private railroads in two locations), Carl Fallberg (Fiddletown and Copperopolis), and many more. The clinic takes us to the homes of the above folks and a pictorial visit to their railroads. John and Katie will also discuss the ever present thread of trains in the Disney theme parks. Katie has color designed many of the railroad stations and locomotives in several of the parks. It was during the early years at Walt Disney Imagineering that John built the Mescal Lines, Cielo Lumber Company, Jerome and Southwestern RR. Later he built (and Katie painted) the Ferrocarril de Tascosa and Calico. John will be sharing some images of his work, and discussing how building Disney theme parks is really similar to building a model railroad!

Fun Fool-Proof Finishing with Acrylic Paints Wednesday July 6 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Ken Schlotfeldt Convention Center 302/303
This seminar presents the differences between water-based acrylic paints and other media types commonly used in model finishing. Discussion will cover water –based acrylic paint characteristics, application techniques, and proper cleaning methods. Additionally, information will be shared on substrates water-base acrylic paints can be used on, proper methods of preparing water-base acrylic paints for spraying, brush painting techniques for water-base acrylic paints, and available paint additives and accessories that can be utilized to ensure success when using water-based acrylic paints. Ken Schlotfeldt is the President of Badger Air-Brush Co. and is a Christian. Ken has been in the airbrush manufacturing industry for over 30 years. He has designed, assembled, tested, sold, packed, shipped, serviced, and used airbrushes extensively during his industry tenure. Ken has presented over 100 seminars on airbrushing to numerous national organizations, including NAMTA, NRHSA, NMRA, AMPS, IPMS, RBA, NFDA, SEMA, NTA, IBS and others. (Ask him if you’d like to know what organizations these are). He’s been married to a wonderful woman going on 24 years, and they have three wonderful children. Ken loves airbrushes/airbrushing and helping air-brushers enjoy a successful airbrush experience through having good knowledge and information related to selecting, using, and maintaining their airbrush.

How I planned my signal system Wednesday July 6 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
David Metal Convention Center 310
This clinic goes into the planning and preparation of the railroad before starting to install signals. The clinic discusses creating signal blocks, block detection, signal drivers, wiring standards and wiring for the installation of signals.
Signals, Electronics

Prototypical Operation of the Diesel Tsunami Decoder Wednesday July 6 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
George Bogatiuk (Soundtraxx) Convention Center 312
This exciting and informative clinic will cover all of the sounds found in the diesel Tsunami and they relate to a diesel locmotive. After an overview of the sound found in every diesel Tsunami we will examine setting up our decoder to match a specific prototype and then examine using the sounds and functions of the Tsunami to enhance an operating session. At the end will be a short Q&A period for all those in attendance.
DCC

Buildings for Your Layout by Design Preservation Models Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Miles & Fran Hale, MMR Convention Center 315
Virtually every layout includes villages, towns, or cities-and they all need buildings. DPM has the full city system you need to build whatever structure you want. Learn easy techniques and tips for building the size, shape, and style of buildings your city needs with DPM kits and modular systems.

JMRI: Operations Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Dennis Drury Convention Center 309
JMRI Operations is a module within DecoderPro / PanelPro that provides a comprehensive car management / forwarding system. In this clinic you'll learn to set up and use Operations to configure Locations, Routes, Yards, Industry tracks, Car types and loads and Trains. You'll be shown how the program generates Switch Lists, Car Reports and Train Manifests. In addition, basic troubleshooting and general configuration issues will be covered. There will be time for a Q&A at the end of the clinic.

Modeling the Southern Pacific Business Train Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Scott Inman Convention Center 319
When the Southern Pacific needed to reach deep into its publicity arsenal, it would dispatch a fleet comprised of official and business car equipment to cover events ranging from company advertising to major sporting events. This polished varnish would create a clearly defined business train consist in the 1980s. Southern Pacific Prototype Modeler Scott Inman decided to take on the arduous task of modeling the train in HO scale. The clinic will describe both the prototype equipment, uses of the train, and the model alterations needed to accurately represent the Southern Pacific Business Train.

Mold making and casting for the model maker Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Joel Bragdon Convention Center 310
This clinic and will cover making a variety of types RTV rubber molds for reproducing detail parts, cars, vehicles, structures or almost anything. One piece, multi piece and split molds will be demonstrated. Casting with a variety of materials will be shown including fast curing space age, safe and odorless, polymer resins. Over two hundred sample molds and castings will be shown to illustrate the great number of options.

Photographing Your Models Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
John Sing Convention Center 312
John is one of the Coast Division's prolific photographers of local model railroad layouts and models. Examples of his work can be seen on the Coast Division Model Contest web site (http://www.pcrnmra.org/coast/contest.shtml) and at his own personal model railroad web site (http://home.comcast.net/~j.sing/ ). http://home.comcast.net/~j.sing/Santa_Fe_PA1s_2_banner.jpg In this clinic, John will discuss the his easy to follow methods for making digital model railroad photos, using today's very affordable digital cameras. (URL = http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q110superzoomgroup/ ) Specific recommendations for equipment will be included, as well as ideas and recommendations for simple composition, lighting, backdrop, and exposure. Post-processing of the digital image is then covered (this is just as important as the original image itself) by using free simple but powerful photo editing software (I use IrfanView) that can be downloaded off the Internet. The focus of this clinic is on easy to follow methods for digital model railroad photography. Assumes limited photography experience, however, insights, tips and hints for experienced phototographers are included, as we all learn by sharing our experiences. This clinic is aimed for the "everyone" in all of us - we're not going to go into the professional level details. So, if you just want to make better model railroad photos - come on out and hear what John has to say about "Everyone can do digital model railroad photos!!!"
Photography

Project Linus Speaker Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Yvonne Jones Convention Center 302/303
Yvonne Jones, from the local chapter of Project Linus will share who they donate to, how many blankets they've donated and about Project Linus in general. Come out and hear about this organization and all the great work it does.
Non-Rail

The Traveling Toolbox System Wednesday July 6 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Pete Steinmetz Convention Center 314
When you can't take the kitchen sink, what do you take? Many model railroaders travel to clubs and other layouts. Take what you need. This clinic will discuss how to organize a traveling toolbox system. Audience participation encouraged. All scales welcome.

Building Distressed Wood Structures Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jimmy Simmons Convention Center 314
Learn how to create realistic distressed wood structures using my Weathering and Distressing Clapboard Siding and Strip Wood Techniques.

Easy City Streets Using Sintra Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jim Sacco Convention Center 312
What is Sintra and what is it good for? Come and find out why it is a neat, easy-to-use alternative to many commonly used methods of making city streets. Clinic also includes some basic guidelines for modeling urban streets that are applicable to most methods of street construction.
Scenery

Fabric Painting - fee required Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Mary Moore Campagna Convention Center 302/303
Bring a T- shirt to paint. We will have shirts and other items to paint. This is a fun and easy project. Be creative. Shirts can be taken home or we will donate any that are left to a local Women's Shelter.
Non-Rail

JMRI: Aspect Signaling Pt 1 Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Dick Bronson Convention Center 309
JMRI Release 2.12 brings a new module to the DecoderPro / PanelPro toolbox. Previous JMRI capability included tools for ABS, but more complex signaling required that the user understand and create a section of a program for each possible aspect at each location. Aspect Signaling provides the user with a set of signal rules and mast styles as used on specific railroads. By simply placing the appropriate masts at each location and linking them with block occupancy, turnout position, and optional information, JMRI will automatically control them in a prototypical manner.

In addition, some basic configuration issues will be covered. There will be time for a Q&A at the end of the clinic.
Signals

Passenger Cars of the Colorado & Southern Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Ken Martin Convention Center 319
Ken Martin, one of the authors of Colorado & Southern Freight and Passenger Cars (Narrow Gauge Pictorial, VIII (8)) will discuss the passenger car equipment of the C&S.
Narrow Gauge

Theatrical Layout Lighting Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Eric Eggel and Mark Fisher Convention Center 310
Eric Eggel and Mark Fisher, both from the Silicon Valley Lines Model Railroad Club in San Jose, will discuss the club's recent installation of a DCC multi-color lighting system from NCE Corporation. Eric will discuss technical details of the system, while Mark will discuss lessons learned while completing the installation.
DCC

Woodland Scenics Foam Layout Construction Wednesday July 6 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Miles & Fran Hale, MMR Convention Center 315
The newest method for building your layout or module is with high-density foam. Woodland Scenics has it all in the SubTerrain system and this clinic will show you how to use it. Learn how to create a fast and easy layout using no woodworking skills or tool and with very little mess.

Airbrushing Hands-on Clinic Wednesday July 6 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Scotty Mason Sheraton Hotel: Carr

The only way to learn to airbrush is to pick one up and start spraying paint. In this Workshop, you’ll learn the basics of airbrushing from someone who has been using an airbrush for 35 years. Scott will show you the basic techniques you need to know to airbrush, including paint dilutions, air pressure, and cleaning. You’ll see how an airbrush can be used to paint rockwork and structures.

This clinic will be limited to 20 attendees. We will be holding a lottery to pick the 20 attendees for each of two sessions. Please indicate your preference of sessions that you wish to be considered for: Wednesday evening, Thursday morning, or either session.

Chasing Chinese Steam Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Doug Geiger, MMR & Barbara Geiger Convention Center 310
In May of 2006, Barbara and Doug, together with 18 other enthusiasts traveled to northeast China to see and record some of China’s last working steam engines in normal service. Although too late to witness mainline steam, the group visited many coal branch railroads. Through video and still photography, Doug and Barbara will show you several varieties of standard gauge 2-8-2s and narrow gauge 0-8-0s performing their everyday tasks of hauling passengers and freight. They will also share with you some of their experiences in this part of China where few foreigners venture.

Free-moN: Modular Railroading Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Dave Falkenburg Convention Center 319
Dave Falkenburg of Silicon Valley Free-moN will give an introduction to N Scale Free-mo. In addition to covering the standard, Dave will describe some neat techniques for building lightweight modular layouts.

Modeling a Country Grain Elevator Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bob Van Arnem Convention Center 315
Scratchbuilding a styrene model of a corrugated metal-clad cribbed grain elevator, including interior structural and equipment details, in HO scale. The prototype for the model was the subject of the "Perspective" column in the August, 2009, issue of Railroad Model Craftsman. Step by step construction using templates and jigs, before and after coloring and assembly of components, mold making/plaster casting, and historical and other photos are included.

Modeling The West Side Lumber Company Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Burton Maxwell Convention Center 309
Burton Maxwell has spent a lifetime researching the West Side Lumber Company and building a model of it. In this informative clinic, he gives a little history and a lot of hands-on tips on modeling that could apply to any logging railroad layout. From design, through construction, to buildings, rolling stock and scenery, Burton has practical information to make a logging layout look so real, you’ll swear you smell pine trees and sawdust. His wife, Patricia, joins him with her own scenery secrets.

Nn3 Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tom Knapp, MMR Convention Center 314
An overview of commercially available products and typical techniques for modeling narrow gauge in 1:148 - 1:160 scales. The clinic will cover:
  • A brief history of “Nn3” from the 1950's to present
  • Locomotives (Kit, R-T-R, and “Parts-Built”)
  • DCC & Sound
  • Rolling Stock (Kit & R-T-R, Freight, Passenger, and Non-Revenue)
  • Track Work (Sectional, Flex, Hand-Laid, Ballasting)
  • Modules, Module Standards and Clubs
The Power Point presentation will be supplemented by pass-around samples, a hand-out, and the operating Nn3 modular layout on show at the Convention, presented by the NorCal Division of the international group, The Nn3 Alliance. The layout has appeared at numerous NMRA and NNGC conventions and includes many of the products and techniques discussed in the clinic. The Nn3 Alliance includes over 800 modelers from ten countries modeling 2-foot, 3-foot, 42" and meter gauge in 1:148, 1:150, 1:152, and 1:160 scales.
www.Nn3.org
Narrow Gauge

Tales of a Hobby Shop Owner Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bill Winans Convention Center 312
A discussion of the 26-year life of a hobby shop, from birth to death. Join with Bill as he discusses how he got started in the hobby shop business, figured out pay, their shop cat and his antics, the customers and their antics, robberies (maybe), and how he sold the shop. Audience participation is welcome.
NASG

Movie Night Wednesday July 6 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Convention Center 302/303
Come join us as we watch an oldie but goodie. Maybe even one you haven't seen before!
Non-Rail

CATS: a CTC Panel that Grows Wednesday July 6 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Rodney Black Convention Center 310
This clinic is an introduction to the Computer Automated Traffic System (CATS). CATS is open source software built upon JMRI for creating and operating a modern looking CTC panel. The clinic will open with creating a CTC panel for John Armstrong's "minimum-size loop-to-loop" layout, and operated as a magnet board. It will progress to demonstrating how to add occupancy detection, turnout feedback, turnout control, and signal control, in a simulation mode. The clinic will demonstrate other features built into CATS, including train tracking, session recording, train status display, crew management, and rapid CTC panel development for module groups. For a preview, see the August 2010 NMRA Magazine or http://home.comcast.net/~kb0oys.

Layout Sound as a Serious Scale Modeling Medium Wednesday July 6 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jim Wells Convention Center 314
Hearing is believing. Focus in this clinic is on building the scale sound model... the soundtrack! if your interest lies with the 'sound system', you may want to attend our other clinic. Keep in mind, a sound system is only as good as the soundtracks user loaded into it! In this clinic we will examine the nature and processes of building scale sound models, and the modeling tricks we've stumbled into. The scale sound modeling workbench is the audio editor. If attendees wish, we will get into field recording, sound design in mineature, kit bashing, scartch building (sound design), or any other topic dealing with the actual construction of the scale model soundtrack. And of course we will discuss the most important aspect of any believeable scale sound model... the scale imaging around the sound! A working scale sound workbench will be on hand, and examples of scale models will be 'on display' (presented) throughout the clinic. Clinic starts with a bit of background into the nature of scale sound and human hearing, and perception of sound in scale. We'll lay out the basics for you, and then we will open the discussion up to answering questions in areas of specific interest to attendees.
http://www.fantasonics.com/

Meet The NMRA President Wednesday July 6 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Mike Brestel Convention Center 309
Mike Brestel, and several members of BOD and the NMRA Officers will discuss NMRA matters and answer questions. Several special door prizes will be awarded to those in attendance. Must be present, and in the room at the time of the drawing, to win.
NMRA

Choosing, Using, Maintaining, and Troubleshooting Your Airbrush Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Ken Schlotfeldt Convention Center 302/303
This seminar will familiarize attendees with airbrush terminology and types, explain their differences, guide attendees regarding which type of airbrush is best for each finishing application they may desire to do, present useful air source/air hose/air regulator/other air source related accessory information, discuss varying media/paint types and preparations, present useful airbrush accessories information, and provide simple basic airbrush cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting instruction. Ken Schlotfeldt is the President of Badger Air-Brush Co. and is a Christian. Ken has been in the airbrush manufacturing industry for over 30 years. He has designed, assembled, tested, sold, packed, shipped, serviced, and used airbrushes extensively during his industry tenure. Ken has presented over 100 seminars on airbrushing to numerous national organizations, including NAMTA, NRHSA, NMRA, AMPS, IPMS, RBA, NFDA, SEMA, NTA, IBS and others. (Ask him if you’d like to know what organizations these are). He’s been married to a wonderful woman going on 24 years, and they have three wonderful children. Ken loves airbrushes/airbrushing and helping air-brushers enjoy a successful airbrush experience through having good knowledge and information related to selecting, using, and maintaining their airbrush.

Through Cars and Set-outs: Adding Pullman Service to Any Layout Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Jamie Bothwell Convention Center 315
NASG

Troubleshooting and Repairing Brass Steam Locomotives Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Mark Schutzer Convention Center 314
Older brass steam locomotives have a reputation for running poorly. This clinic will discuss the common problems and show you how to fix them. A step by step example of a locomotive repair will be illustrated. This clinic is tailored to the beginner who wants learn how to improve the running of those cranky steam locomotives.

Use and Abuse of Excel in Model Railroading Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Gary Saxton Convention Center 312
One of the more useful software products for railroad modelers is Microsoft Excel. It is ubiquitous, runs on many platforms and does some tasks exceptionally well. It can also be pushed, stretched and abused to do some modeling tasks not considered part of its usual repertoire. This clinic will highlight timetables and string diagrams, track schematics, bridge and trestle plans, paper doll buildings and other miscellaneous tasks that can be handled by Excel. A companion clinic demonstrates a couple of Excel base car card and waybill systems.

Vision and the Aging Modeler Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Richard Meetz, OD MS FAAO Convention Center 310
The ability to do prolonged detail work at near changes with age. Mature modelers must also change how they model either by changing scales or by the use of vision-aids & lighting. This clinic will explain what difficulties these age-related changes present to the modeler. Discussed in detail will be methods of compensating for these changes so that modeling activities need not be curtailed or abandoned as the modeler ages. With these methods, the modeler can pursue detailed modeling, even in the smaller scales, for hours at a time without eyestrain or discomfort.

Working Gemco: We Don't Need No Stinkin' Yardmaster Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Dave Bayless Convention Center 319
Dave is a railroad engineer who worked for many years in and around Southern Pacific's Gemco Yard in the Los Angeles area. Gemco was SP's support yard for General Motors' Van Nuys plant as well as a Budweiser brewery just up the line. Many locals were based out of Gemco and there were approximately 300 - 500 cars switched in the yard each day, all without a yardmaster to be found. Come learn how this was done and how to simulate this in a yard on your railroad.
OPSIG

Airbrushing Hands-On Clinic Thursday July 7 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Scotty Mason Sheraton Hotel: Carr

The only way to learn to airbrush is to pick one up and start spraying paint. In this Workshop, you’ll learn the basics of airbrushing from someone who has been using an airbrush for 35 years. Scott will show you the basic techniques you need to know to airbrush, including paint dilutions, air pressure, and cleaning. You’ll see how an airbrush can be used to paint rockwork and structures.

This clinic will be limited to 20 attendees. We will be holding a lottery to pick the 20 attendees for each of two sessions. Please indicate your preference of sessions that you wish to be considered for: Wednesday evening, Thursday morning, or either session.

Modeling The West Side Lumber Company Thursday July 7 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Burton Maxwell Convention Center 310
Burton Maxwell has spent a lifetime researching the West Side Lumber Company and building a model of it. In this informative clinic, he gives a little history and a lot of hands-on tips on modeling that could apply to any logging railroad layout. From design, through construction, to buildings, rolling stock and scenery, Burton has practical information to make a logging layout look so real, you’ll swear you smell pine trees and sawdust. His wife, Patricia, joins him with her own scenery secrets.

Online Resources for Model Railroaders Thursday July 7 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Joe Fugate Convention Center 309
The Model Railroad Hobbyist mediaZine staff de-mystifies the tricks to finding the best model railroading resources on the internet. If you want to leverage the world wide web as an information resource for your hobby, this is a "don't miss" clinic.

Rebuilding Brass locomotives Thursday July 7 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Mark Schutzer Convention Center 314
This clinic will show you how to turn older brass loco’s into great runners that will silently creep down the track. Re-motoring and re-gearing will be discussed and illustrated in detail. Topics include motor and gearbox selection, motor mount construction, and the use of universal joint couplings.

Tree Making 101 Thursday July 7 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
John McKenzie Convention Center 315
NASG

World Wide Model Railroad Tour Thursday July 7 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
John Sing Convention Center 312
Look over John's shoulder as we go on a "you-are-there" fast-paced photo, movie, and multi-media tour of worldwide Americas, European, and Asian model and prototype railroad sites and people the world over. Enjoy the incredible diversity and interest. Gather ideas for future travels. Or just save the expense and watch here!

WW, European sites include: Miniature Wonderland, Hamburg 2007 - Narrow Gauge Live Steam, Saxony, Germany 2008 - The Deutsch Museum, Munich 2007 - Nuremburg Deutschbahn Museum - French TGV, Germany ICE - Gotthard Pass, Switzerland - Atlas Model RR HQ in NJ - Hawaii RR Museum, Oahu - Argentina has model railroading too! - Prototype industrial trackage you have to see to believe

Notable Hobby shops in countries around the world: - Visit to Japan Kato Showroom 2008 - Caboose Hobbies, Denver

Model RR Exhibitions and Conventions include: - Nottingham UK Model Railway Exhibition 2006 - US-themed Model RR Convention in Germany 2007 - Two largest N-Trak Layouts ever (2008 Louisville, 2004 Chantilly) - Amherst Model RR Show 2005 - Anaheim NMRA National Convention 2008

Famous Model RR clubs: - Glendale, Pasadena, Slim Gauge Guild, Belmont Shores - San Diego Model RR Museum - The Model RR Club, New Jersey - Washington State Museum's Puget Sound Model RR Engineers

World-class Layout Tours include: - John Armstrong - Jim Blattau - Paul Dolkos - Dick Patton

Copper on Rails Thursday July 7 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Don Marenzi Convention Center 312
Don Marenzi will present the relationship between railroads and the copper industry across North America. The use of rail equipment from mining, to smelting, refining, and finally delivery to end customers will be discussed. The processing of copper, location of major landmarks, and traffic flows of the industry will be shown along with the railroads, specialized rolling stock and facilities. Information and a lot of photographs shown should inspire modeling opportunities and operating potential for your model railroad.

Guide Dogs for the Blind speaker Thursday July 7 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Convention Center 302/303
We will have a visitor from the local chapter of Guide Dogs for the Blind. They will be sharing with us their experiences as they foster a guide dog and what the organization does.
Non-Rail

Make it Run Like a Dream Thursday July 7 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Joe Fugate Convention Center 310
Learn the secrets of getting the best "quality of run" from your layout operation so that your layout operates with optimum reliability. Hear the successes and failures from seasoned modeler Joe Fugate, whose HO Siskiyou Line layout has been in operation now for 20 years.

Modeling a Country Grain Elevator Thursday July 7 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bob Van Arnem Convention Center 309
Scratchbuilding a styrene model of a corrugated metal-clad cribbed grain elevator, including interior structural and equipment details, in HO scale. The prototype for the model was the subject of the "Perspective" column in the August, 2009, issue of Railroad Model Craftsman. Step by step construction using templates and jigs, before and after coloring and assembly of components, mold making/plaster casting, and historical and other photos are included.

Modeling California Packing Houses Thursday July 7 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Jim Lancaster Convention Center 314
Packing Houses were once a fixture of California, part of a citrus and produce industry that was a key source of railroad revenue. Jim Lancaster and Bill Messecar will discuss prototype packing houses along the SP and Santa Fe, as well as model packing houses and modeling techniques.

Prototype Research Panel Discussion Thursday July 7 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Jack Burgess, MMR and others Convention Center 315
The panel for this presentation will include, Jack Burgess, Richard Hendrickson, Tony Koester, Tony Thompson, and Kyle Wyatt (Curator for CSRM). They will discuss a wide range of prototype research sources and techniques including photos, Official Equipment Registers, archives and libraries, specialty publications, patent drawings, Car Builders Cyclopedias, and more.

Steam-up of Granite Rock number 10 Thursday July 7 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
CSRM staff CSRM
Ever wonder what goes on before you get on that steam powered tourist train? Visit with the CSRM locomotive crew as they prepare the Sacramento Southern Railroad’s operating steam locomotive, Granite Rock Company No. 10, for operation. It will be pulling trains for NMRA convention-goers later in the day—at this evening’s big event!

Building Scenery for your Railroad by Woodland Scenics Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Miles & Fran Hale, MMR Convention Center 314
This clinic starts from the terrain up to show you magically how easy and fun it is to model ground cover, bushes, grasses, weeds, and trees for your layout. Learn simple blending and layering techniques that provide ultimate realism as you add both color and texture to your layout. The clinic is designed to help you begin a new layout or add finishing touches to an existing one. Landscaping is easy and almost magic when done the Woodland Scenics way. Come and let Fran and Miles make you a magician.
Scenery

Disney Railroading Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
John & Katie Olson Convention Center 310
John Olson was recruited by Walt Disney Imagineering in 1974 when Mike O'Connell (owner of Chooch Enterprises) was working there as a show writer, and producing a film on model railroading for Kalmbach Publishing, which featured a few of John's dioramas. John began with Disney as a model builder, and soon branched into production design and field art direction for the Disney Theme Parks. Katie, a Disney Scholarship winner, joined Disney shortly after John as a model painter and color designer. Together they have worked on too many Disney Theme Parks to name! Before joining Disney, John worked closely with folks like Tom Daniel, Leo Campbell, and Fred Hill, among other manufacturers and retailers. Also at time, John began publishing with Kalmbach, Carstens, Narrow Gauge Gazette, and of course the NMRA Bulletin. John will be sharing memories of those days. Given the fact that Walt Disney himself was a huge rail fan, trains are ever-present in the Disney vocabulary. Over the years there they have worked with several famous Disney characters, such as Ward Kimball (Grizzly Flats RR), Harper Goff (Great Locomotive Chase art director), Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston (private railroads in two locations), Carl Fallberg (Fiddletown and Copperopolis), and many more. The clinic takes us to the homes of the above folks and a pictorial visit to their railroads. John and Katie will also discuss the ever present thread of trains in the Disney theme parks. Katie has color designed many of the railroad stations and locomotives in several of the parks. It was during the early years at Walt Disney Imagineering that John built the Mescal Lines, Cielo Lumber Company, Jerome and Southwestern RR. Later he built (and Katie painted) the Ferrocarril de Tascosa and Calico. John will be sharing some images of his work, and discussing how building Disney theme parks is really similar to building a model railroad!

Introduction to Signals for your Model Railroad Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Seth Neumann Convention Center 309
This clinic provides an introduction to Prototype Signals and signaling systems for the modeler. It goes on to discuss issues for planning and implementing a model signaling system for your railroad based on past LDSIG "Planning for Signals" panels. This clinic is intended for the modeler who is exploring adding signals to an existing layout or designing signals (and CTC) into a new design.
LDSIG, Signals

Rapid Prototyping Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Bill Brisko Convention Center 302/303
Bill Brisko of Pacific Locomotive Works will discuss tools and techniques available for rapidly creating cast details.
http://www.pacificlocomotive.com/

SP Freight Cars You Can Model Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tony Thompson Convention Center 312
This talk presents examples of models from kits and kit conversions in HO scale that represent important SP freight cars for the steam-diesel transition era. All types of cars, from flats and gondolas to box, tank and hopper cars and cabooses, are included. The focus is on accurate and reasonable representations of each prototype car, not of museum-quality modeling. Some information on car usage is also included. A handout summarizes the car classes and commercial model(s) used as the basis for each car.
SP

The Lackawana Railroad: Building a Miniature Movie Set Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Jack Verducci, MMR and Kermit Paul, MMR Convention Center 319
Jack Verducci and Kermit Paul discuss the construction of the Lackawana Railroad, a 1:32 railroad designed to be able to recreate any year in the northeast between 1925-1970 in precise and historically accurate detail. For a sense of scale, the layout occupies 2,000 square feet, has over 10,000 trees, and features a slew of advanced animation elements.
http://lackawannarailroad.com/
Scenery

Understanding Steam Locomotive Details Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Andy Sperandeo Convention Center 315
An expansion of his March 2007 Model Railroader article of the same name, Andy will explain the external appliances and piping of steam locomotives in terms of six major systems: water supply, fuel supply, steam distribution, sand for traction, air brakes, and electric lighting. The primary example is Santa Fe 4-8-4 no. 3751, with some other locomotives shown to illustrate variations.

Using the CSRM library and archives Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
CSRM staff CSRM
The California State Railroad Museum Library is North America’s largest railroad reference library, with an archival collection that includes literally millions of photographs, drawings, corporate records, periodicals, and much more. CSRM Library staff will begin with a presentation highlighting some of the collections contained in the Museum’s archives, and focusing on those of likely interest to modelers. A visit to the CSRM Library Reading Room will wrap up this session, and hopefully to acquaint NMRA members with the Museum's broad array of resources—and how to access and utilize them.

Stamping Workshop - Fee Required Thursday July 7 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Marilyn Long Convention Center 301 (Non-Rail)
Our instructors will be walking us step by step through this project. Learn some new techniques and take home a great item.
Non-Rail

Buildings for Your Layout by Design Preservation Models Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Miles & Fran Hale, MMR Convention Center 314
Virtually every layout includes villages, towns, or cities-and they all need buildings. DPM has the full city system you need to build whatever structure you want. Learn easy techniques and tips for building the size, shape, and style of buildings your city needs with DPM kits and modular systems.

Making "Ready-to-Run" Freight Car Models Really Ready to Run Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Richard Hendrickson Convention Center 315
In recent years, a dramatic shift has taken place in freight car modeling: the replacement of kits by assembled "ready-to-run" models. The best of these models are, on the whole, well made, prototypically accurate and highly detailed. However, are they really "ready-to-run"? In this Power Point clinic, cars offered by several different manufacturers will be shown as they came out of the box and then as they appear when ready to put on the track of a prototypically realistic layout. I'll describe the process of making improvements and adding appropriate aging and weathering which make them truly layout-ready. The models themselves will be on display in the RPM room.

Marklin Update Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Thomas Catherall Convention Center 302/303
Tom Catherall will discussing new developments from Märklin, the Digital Pioneers. More powerful equipment for LGB and 1 gauge; wireless control through an App on iPhone, iPad, iPod; Color touch screen control with memory cards; and Mobile station control with memory cards.

Modeling the Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
John Goodrich and Kermit Paul, MMR Convention Center 319
Owner John Goodrich and consulting engineer Kermit Paul describe their plans for John’s new O scale Los Angeles River Railroad based on the Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal and adjacent yard circa 1952.

Scratchbuilding Crossings in any Scale Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Dick Karnes Convention Center 310
NASG

SP: Steam Over Donner Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Bob Church Convention Center 312
Bob Church will cover the types of locomotives used from the early Central Pacific days on to the early Southern Pacific through to the end of steam in the mid-1950s.
SP

The Art of Illusion Thursday July 7 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
CJ Riley, MMR Convention Center 309
A photographic exploration of the philosophy and methods of creating a more believable model railroad through careful consideration of what is needed for that elusive "sense of rightness". Subjects such as planning, backdrops, mirrors, bridges and other subjects that help to elevate the level of realism of modeling. Magician's tricks such as sleight of hand and distraction are covered. Soon to be a book published by Signature Press.

Maintaining a continually running layout Thursday July 7 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
CSRM staff CSRM
The California State Railroad Museum is open 362 days a year, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Have you ever considered the maintenance that would be necessary if you ran your model railroad that long? In this case, it’s a Toy Train layout in the Thomas W. Sefton Gallery, featuring four different operating tracks and levels. Regular track cleaning, periodic replacement of drive mechanisms and tracks, and many other interesting things will be discussed in this “behind the scenes” session with Museum staff.

Building Working Caboose "Frog Eye" Marker Lights Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Rich Malone Convention Center 315
The clinic focuses on the construction, installation and control of operational Caboose "Frog Eye" Marker lights, including several different versions, Dual/Single and later styles. Easy to build and install DCC control features will also be discussed. The control portion would be of interest for any style of markers.

Getting Down and Dirty with Weathering Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Leslie Eaton, MMR Convention Center 302/303
Join Leslie Eaton, MMR and learn a variety of techniques including airbrushing, dry brushing, using stencils, and the layering of colours to achieve prototypical results on your cars and structures. Weathering techniques for cars and structures and colour selection will be demonstrated. Airbrush techniques will also be demonstrated to blend and enhance scenery.

Intermodal Well Cars: Why So Many Colors, Sizes and Shapes? Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Timothy Costello Convention Center 319
The Evolution of Well Car Design and Manufacture with Corresponding Information on HO Scale Modeling of Double Stack Trains. Presentation will provide the modeler and railfan with an overview of early double stack well cars introduced in the mid-1980’s to support 20’ and 40’ ISO containers, through the introduction of 48’ and 53’ well cars as high capacity domestic containers have influenced intermodal transport through 2011. Information on commercially available HO Scale models will accompany each corresponding prototype.

JMRI: Aspect Signaling Pt 2 Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Dick Bronson Convention Center 309
JMRI Release 2.12 brings a new module to the DecoderPro / PanelPro toolbox. Aspect Signaling provides the user with the tools to add a set of signal rules and mast styles as used on his specific railroad. Then by simply placing the appropriate masts at each location and linking them with block occupancy, turnout position, and optional information, JMRI will automatically control them in a prototypical manner.

In this clinic we will explore how to add the aspect information and appearance rules for your own specific prototype. There will be time for a Q&A at the end of the clinic.

LDSIG, Signals

SP: Passenger Cars Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jeff Cauthen Convention Center 312
Jeff will be discussing the SP's San Francisco Overland 1946 thru 1964.  Actual SP cars used on this train will be shown along with photos and a discussion of which models can be used to model this train.
SP

Woodland Scenics Foam Layout Construction Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Miles & Fran Hale, MMR Convention Center 314
The newest method for building your layout or module is with high-density foam. Woodland Scenics has it all in the SubTerrain system and this clinic will show you how to use it. Learn how to create a fast and easy layout using no woodworking skills or tool and with very little mess.

Yosemite Valley Railroad Thursday July 7 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jack Burgess, MMR Convention Center 310
Those who research railroads in the era from the late 1930s to the late 1940s tend to think of these railroads in black and white due to the limited color photography of the period. But there were some railfans of the era who put up with slow, ASA 10 film speed to record their favorite prototypes in color. This presentation by Yosemite Valley Railroad expert Jack Burgess, author of "Trains to Yosemite", a book on the YVRR, will take viewers on a gorgeous trip on the YVRR from Merced to El Portal on the western boundary of Yosemite National Park using some his favorite color and B/W images of the railroad.

Fun Fool-Proof Finishing with Acrylic Paints Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Ken Schlotfeldt Convention Center 314
This seminar presents the differences between water-based acrylic paints and other media types commonly used in model finishing. Discussion will cover water –based acrylic paint characteristics, application techniques, and proper cleaning methods. Additionally, information will be shared on substrates water-base acrylic paints can be used on, proper methods of preparing water-base acrylic paints for spraying, brush painting techniques for water-base acrylic paints, and available paint additives and accessories that can be utilized to ensure success when using water-based acrylic paints. Ken Schlotfeldt is the President of Badger Air-Brush Co. and is a Christian. Ken has been in the airbrush manufacturing industry for over 30 years. He has designed, assembled, tested, sold, packed, shipped, serviced, and used airbrushes extensively during his industry tenure. Ken has presented over 100 seminars on airbrushing to numerous national organizations, including NAMTA, NRHSA, NMRA, AMPS, IPMS, RBA, NFDA, SEMA, NTA, IBS and others. (Ask him if you’d like to know what organizations these are). He’s been married to a wonderful woman going on 24 years, and they have three wonderful children. Ken loves airbrushes/airbrushing and helping air-brushers enjoy a successful airbrush experience through having good knowledge and information related to selecting, using, and maintaining their airbrush.

Modeling the Southern Pacific Business Train Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Scott Inman Convention Center 312
When the Southern Pacific needed to reach deep into its publicity arsenal, it would dispatch a fleet comprised of official and business car equipment to cover events ranging from company advertising to major sporting events. This polished varnish would create a clearly defined business train consist in the 1980s. Southern Pacific Prototype Modeler Scott Inman decided to take on the arduous task of modeling the train in HO scale. The clinic will describe both the prototype equipment, uses of the train, and the model alterations needed to accurately represent the Southern Pacific Business Train.
SP

R Street Industrial Corridor Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tom Campbell Convention Center 310
Sacramento's R Street corridor is a great example of an urban switching district. It had several elements that are good prototypes to model: interchange tracks, a scale track, freight houses, team tracks, and several industrial customers. R Street was served by the Southern Pacific and Western Pacific; the Sacramento Northern had trackage rights down R after 1954 or so. Using photos and maps, we'll take a virtual walking tour down R Street in the 1940s and 1950s. Designing and building a module based on R Street will also be discussed.

Rapid Prototyping Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bill Brisko Convention Center 319
Bill Brisko of Pacific Locomotive Works will discuss tools and techniques available for rapidly creating cast details.

Scenery Techniques for Your Railroad Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Charlie Comstock Convention Center 315
Charlie Comstock, editor of Model Railroad Hobbyist Magazine, will present various scenery techniques he's been developing on his own layout. Topics will range from the importance of believable scenery, to tips and tricks for detailing your track work and creating backdrops.
Scenery

Signaling Your Model Railroad: Part 1 Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 309
Fundamental Concepts: Prototype and Model Bruce expands upon the Signaling Made Easier series published in MR, and the newly released multi-volume Railroader’s Application Handbook to cover prototypical signaling and how to adapt it to our models. The differences between ABS, APB and CTC signaling are discussed along with their impact on how railroads operate. A clear understanding is established regarding the difference between block and interlocking signals, speed versus route signaling and the corresponding aspects and indications used by different railroads and how they can be adapted to our models. Correct signal placement, total compatibility with DCC and how to easily drive different signal types are addressed. Bruce explains how to use the new Super Mini-Node card coupled with the power of the computer to joyfully reduce layout wiring and significantly reduce system cost while maximizing system flexibility and prototype fidelity.
http://www.jlcenterprises.net/
LDSIG, Signals, Electronics

NCE User's Forum Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Mark Schutzer & Marcus Ammann Convention Center 302/303
Mark Schutzer and Marcus Ammann will host a question and answer session related to anything related to NCE DCC.

Digitrax User Forum Thursday July 7 7:30 PM - 11:30 PM
AJ and Zana Ireland Sheraton Hotel: Gardenia Room
Zana and AJ Ireland of Digitrax invite you to come see what is new at the 2011 NMRA National Convention in Sacramento, CA. Check out what's new and get your Digitrax and Loconet questions answered!

Signaling Your Model Railroad: Part 2 Thursday July 7 8:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 309
ABS, APB and Grade Crossing Warning Systems Expanding upon the content of the Railroader’s Application Handbook, Bruce provides detailed coverage of optimized block occupancy detection and its application to establish Automatic Block Signaling (ABS) including its programming. Then, Bruce explains how the prototype utilizes “Traffic Sticks” to determine directional movement across block boundaries. Such capability plays a key role in setting up Absolute Permissive Block (APB) signaling thereby providing protection for bi-directional operation on the same track. The importance of “traffic sticks” in setting up grade crossing warning systems is discussed along with its utilization with a new Prototypical Grade Crossing Control (PGCC) card. Software examples are included for ABS, APB and for driving the PGCC.
http://www.jlcenterprises.net/
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

Craftsman Structures Tips & Tricks Thursday July 7 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Art Fahie (Bar Mills Models) Convention Center 315
Art Fahie from Bar Mills Models will be presenting various tips and tricks for building a detailing craftsman kits.

Layout Sound Applications Thursday July 7 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jim Wells Convention Center 310
In this clinic we will focus on the practical aspects of both the soundtrack and sound system. Both elements are necessary, and should be integrated together, into the layout. Layout sound does not have to be complicated or expensive to be fun! Any sound is more fun than silence! But we'll cover all of the various options and approaches, from the rediculous to the sublime, documented over the years by the Model Railroad Layout Sound Group. The goal of this clinic will be to encourage and hopefully inspire model railroaders to learn about the skills and tools required to add sound to their layouts... and to give 'the other image' an honest chance to add realism, believeability, unseen animation and life to your railroad empire. Clinic starts with a bit of background into the nature and relationship of scale sound and human hearing/perception, and the basics. We will then open the discussion up to answering questions in areas of specific interest to clinic attendees.
http://www.fantasonics.com/

Nn3 Thursday July 7 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Tom Knapp, MMR Convention Center 312
An overview of commercially available products and typical techniques for modeling narrow gauge in 1:148 - 1:160 scales. The clinic will cover:
  • A brief history of “Nn3” from the 1950's to present
  • Locomotives (Kit, R-T-R, and “Parts-Built”)
  • DCC & Sound
  • Rolling Stock (Kit & R-T-R, Freight, Passenger, and Non-Revenue)
  • Track Work (Sectional, Flex, Hand-Laid, Ballasting)
  • Modules, Module Standards and Clubs
The Power Point presentation will be supplemented by pass-around samples, a hand-out, and the operating Nn3 modular layout on show at the Convention, presented by the NorCal Division of the international group, The Nn3 Alliance. The layout has appeared at numerous NMRA and NNGC conventions and includes many of the products and techniques discussed in the clinic. The Nn3 Alliance includes over 800 modelers from ten countries modeling 2-foot, 3-foot, 42" and meter gauge in 1:148, 1:150, 1:152, and 1:160 scales.
Narrow Gauge

Track Planning and Layout Design Thursday July 7 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Steve Moore Convention Center 314
What does it take to design, build and operate a satisfying model railroad, one you can and be proud to share with your friends? We will discuss, and see examples of design goals, what is a prototype, and prototype-based freelance layout design, and explore some different approaches to a successful layout design. What kind of questions should you ask yourself before putting pencil to paper, or LDEs, on your hard drive? How do you find good resources and research tools? Also, how do Givens and Druthers fit into all of this? We hope to have a good time along the way, maybe a few chuckles too. Come and have some fun with us. Hope to see you there.

OPSig Roundtable Thursday July 7 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Dave Bayless, Seth Neumann, Phil Monat Convention Center 319
Join in with other SIG members and anyone interested in railroad operations, both model and prototype in a moderated discussion of operation topics. Based on the lively discussions seen on the OPSig Email Discussion List and continuing the very successful and highly attended round table forums hosted by the OPSig held at various PCR region conventions, we'll select several topics to review as a group. Dave is a locomotive engineer now with UP, hired on with SP out of LA in 1977 and has worked under most operating schemes used by the railroads. Seth is Vice President of the Operations SIG and an accomplished, veteran operator and coordinator of many operations events, will be there to help moderate, offer support and direction to the discussions. This will be the first time this forum is held at a National NMRA convention. These forums are a place to exchange ideas, make new friends or renew acquaintances, ask questions of other knowledgeable modelers and/or prototype railroaders that may be present, and discuss operating possibilities, procedures, rules and applications to your model railroad! We'll continue where layout design leaves off and move into how to operate our layouts as we discuss a number of issues focused on Operations significance and relevance. All convention attendees are welcome!
OPSIG

S Scale Yahoo Group Meet-up Thursday July 7 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sheraton Hotel: Tofanelli Room

Signaling Your Model Railroad: Part 3 Thursday July 7 9:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 309
Centralized Traffic Control Systems Bruce explains CTC operations and how it can smooth traffic flow on your railroad. As illustrated, constructing a dispatcher’s CTC panel and interfacing it to your railroad is much easier than most modelers realize. Differences between US&S and GRS machines are explained and how their different components are interfaced. Straightforward programming techniques are introduced making is easy to “cut-paste-and-change-numbers” to set up a highly accurate C/MRI-based CTC system for any model railroad. Utilizing a standardized set of callable subroutines makes the programming easy while maximizing prototype fidelity. Additionally, entrance-exit interlocking is discussed along with using computer graphics to emulate modern dispatching operations.
http://www.jlcenterprises.net/
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

Blooming Fabric Flowers - fee required Friday July 8 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Diane Forbes Convention Center 302/303
These fabric flowers can be made into pins or home decor. They can be made using fabric glue or easy hand stitching. Diane will share with us the instructions on making three different flowers.
Non-Rail

DCC: Overview Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Jim Betz Convention Center 309
What is DCC? And what it isn't! This clinic is targetted to those of us who are still on the fence or who have newly installed DCC - and just want some help in understanding the basics of how DCC works and a few "best practices".
DCC

Finer than Fine Scale - Modeling Strong Maine in Proto 20.3n2 Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Jim Providenza Convention Center 319
Strong, Maine was a focal point of operations on the Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes, the largest of the Maine 2 foot gauge railroads. It was the junction with the major branch on the railroad, included engine servicing facilities, a lap siding and 7 industries including what was at the time the largest toothpick factory in the US. All this in 1700 linear feet.

Jim Providenza has been in HO Scale all his modeling life. Yet he has spent a good part of the last 5 years working on converting 40 actual linear feet of part of his backyard into a model of Strong, Me. in 1:20.3 proportion with a 2:1 lineal compression. Jim is building the railroad using exact prototype wheel and track dimensions (Proto 20.3n2). Follow along with Jim as he recounts the first part of what has become a very "interesting" and fulfilling journey. Jim will discuss the joys and tribulations of working in a minority scale/gauge combination where almost everything has to be scratchbuilt, kitbashed or extensively reworked. Topics will include research, developing standards, civil engineering "for real", the use of full size tools for modeling, metal shop and the importance of drainage and why glue is often "not good enough".
Narrow Gauge

Images of Speed: Streamlined Steam Locomotives Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
CJ Riley, MMR Convention Center 302/303
A presentation of the art of streamlining steam locomotives, begun in the 1930's as an attempt at modernism and to compete with the new diesel-electric powered streamliners. Photos of examples both elegant and bizarre are shown as the concept evolved from “inverted bath tubs” of the Commodore Vanderbilt to the elegance of the SP's Daylights and the C&O's Chessie, a steam turbine powered streamlined passenger train that was an early victim of the post WWII collapse of the passenger train.

Lighting of Cars & Locomotives (DCC) Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Joe Melhorn Convention Center 314
This will be an introductory clinic examining the types of LEDs available to the modeler. We'll explore an LED Data Sheet to gather Voltage and Current ratings, luminous intensity and projection angle. We'll select the correct current limiting resistor based on the LED data sheet. SMD LED wiring, soldering techniques and tools will be presented. Flicker Free lighting will be discussed as well as engine lighting effects.
DCC, Electronics

Quick and Easy Freight Car Weathering Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Roger Nulton, MMR Convention Center 315
Get more satisfaction from those ready to run and shake the box models with all that fine detail, shiny paint and perfect lettering applied in the People’s Republic of China! Add your personal touch to your freight car fleet, without scratchbuilding or super detailing, by imitating the effects of time and nature. No prototype cars last long out of the paint shop before the weathering process begins. This clinic will show how to use oil paint washes and other cheap and easy methods, without an airbrush, to improve the realism of your layout. Techniques learned from the model railroad press and from trial and error over the past 45 years will be discussed in this clinic.
NASG

The State Belt Railroad Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Bill Kaufman Convention Center 312
The San Francisco Belt Railroad was a short-line railroad along the Embarcadero in San Francisco. It began as the State Belt Railroad in 1889, and was renamed when the city bought the Port of San Francisco in 1969. The railroad ceased operation in 1993. The railroad connected the Port of San Francisco to many waterfront docks and to industries and warehouses which were adjacent to the waterfront. It had 67 miles (108 km) of trackage and its general offices were in the Ferry Building. Its function was to switch railroad cars from four major railroads to points along its system and vice versa. At the southern portion of the line, a track along King Street (passing the location now occupied by AT&T Park) connected with the Southern Pacific. A train ferry slip at Pier 43 allowed interchange with the Northwestern Pacific, the Western Pacific, and the Atchison. Topeka & Santa Fe railroads. To reach its northern terminus in the Presidio, the line passed through Fisherman's Wharf, Aquatic Park, and a tunnel under Fort Mason.

Using Logistics to Develop a Model Railroad Operations Scheme Friday July 8 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Dustin Shoup Convention Center 310
Dustin will explain some thought processes to mesh real world logistics with planning prototypical operations. This clinic will approach planning ops from the stand point of moving goods and people on your layout not just moving cars. All levels of ops planning and intensity can be covered using this method. The techniques explained are applicable with most operations styles, eras, and even passenger service.
OPSIG

Building Brass Models Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Andrew Malette Convention Center 319
This is a clinic to help modellers overcome their reluctance to try this medium for model building. Brass models have a mystique about them in model railroad circles. They are also considered to be the crème a la crème. It is hoped that once a modeller understands the techniques offered by this clinic, he or she can better decide whether to enter into this realm of modelling. Handouts will be provided.
NASG

Building Distressed Wood Structures Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Jimmy Simmons Convention Center 312
Learn how to create realistic distressed wood structures using my Weathering and Distressing Clapboard Siding and Strip Wood Techniques.

CATS: a CTC Panel that Grows Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Rodney Black Convention Center 310
This clinic is an introduction to the Computer Automated Traffic System (CATS). CATS is open source software built upon JMRI for creating and operating a modern looking CTC panel. The clinic will open with creating a CTC panel for John Armstrong's "minimum-size loop-to-loop" layout, and operated as a magnet board. It will progress to demonstrating how to add occupancy detection, turnout feedback, turnout control, and signal control, in a simulation mode. The clinic will demonstrate other features built into CATS, including train tracking, session recording, train status display, crew management, and rapid CTC panel development for module groups. For a preview, see the August 2010 NMRA Magazine or http://home.comcast.net/~kb0oys.
Signals

DCC: Installing Decoders Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Marcus Ammann Convention Center 309
DCC

Games Galore Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Convention Center 302/303
Come learn some new games. Cards, dice or board games. Then later in the evening we will have a chance to play them all.
Non-Rail

Layout Design for Passenger Operations Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Robert Clark Convention Center 314
Track plans for passenger train oriented layouts suggest how passenger terminals and main line layout design elements can be pulled together. Layout design elements such as turning arrangements, express and mail facilities, and coach yard requirements such as car washers, servicing platforms, Pullman and commissary buildings, and craft shops will be covered. Main line elements include junctions for merging and splitting of trains, and through stations with setouts will be discussed also.
LDSIG

Working with Plastics Friday July 8 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Russ Miller Convention Center 315
Russ Miller, current President of the Bay Area Garden Railway Society, and a store manager for TAP Plastics in San Leandro with 30 years in the industry will be presenting an in-depth clinic on working with plastics. Russ will discuss the various materials on the market with emphasis on their suitability for use in our hobby. He will then go on to discuss preferred techniques for working with the materials including cutting, bending and gluing the different plastics. Free plastic samples available at the clinic.

DCC: Programming Decoders Friday July 8 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jim Betz Convention Center 309
An introduction to the process of setting up a decoder. The focus will be on the use of DecoderPro (JMRI) to set the address, motor control, lights, and a simple approach to speed matching - and upon de-mystifying the concepts. This clinic is targetted to those who are relatively new to the topic and will -not- cover advanced topics. Programming sound decoders will be touched upon briefly.
DCC

Improving Waybills: Adapting Prototype Paperwork Friday July 8 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tony Thompson Convention Center 319
The popular four-cycle waybill, used in many operating schemes, has the drawbacks that minimal prototype information is included, and that often the four cycles become a permanent feature for a particular car, never leaving the car card. An alternative approach based on prototype waybills is described, along with a discussion on what is useful for modeling in the prototype waybill. Prototype paperwork for car movement is described, and the use of the improved waybills in a layout operating scheme is presented and illustrated on the speaker's layout. Implementation methods, and gains in flexibility and realism, are emphasized. Updates from published accounts of this approach are also included.
OPSIG

JMRI: Operations Friday July 8 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Dennis Drury Convention Center 312
JMRI Operations is a module within DecoderPro / PanelPro that provides a comprehensive car management / forwarding system. In this clinic you'll learn to set up and use Operations to configure Locations, Routes, Yards, Industry tracks, Car types and loads and Trains. You'll be shown how the program generates Switch Lists, Car Reports and Train Manifests. In addition, basic troubleshooting and general configuration issues will be covered. There will be time for a Q&A at the end of the clinic.

SP: Passenger Cars Friday July 8 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jeff Cauthen Convention Center 314
Jeff will be discussing the SP's San Francisco Overland 1946 thru 1964.  Actual SP cars used on this train will be shown along with photos and a discussion of which models can be used to model this train.
SP

Theatrical Layout Lighting Friday July 8 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Eric Eggel and Mark Fisher Convention Center 302/303
Eric Eggel and Mark Fisher, both from the Silicon Valley Lines Model Railroad Club in San Jose, will discuss the club's recent installation of a DCC multi-color lighting system from NCE Corporation. Eric will discuss technical details of the system, while Mark will discuss lessons learned while completing the installation.
DCC

Trackside Signaling at the SMRHS Friday July 8 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Joe Melhorn & Dave Megeath Convention Center 310
The SMRHS Membership voted on a full tear-down and rebuild of the club's system in 2001. The Society agreed on an era, a prototype, DCC Control and elements of Dr. Bruce Chubb’s’ C/MRI for block detection and signaling. Join us for a discussion on how we achieved our goals.
Signals

Intermodal Well Cars: Why So Many Colors, Sizes and Shapes? Friday July 8 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Timothy Costello Convention Center 315
The Evolution of Well Car Design and Manufacture with Corresponding Information on HO Scale Modeling of Double Stack Trains. Presentation will provide the modeler and railfan with an overview of early double stack well cars introduced in the mid-1980’s to support 20’ and 40’ ISO containers, through the introduction of 48’ and 53’ well cars as high capacity domestic containers have influenced intermodal transport through 2011. Information on commercially available HO Scale models will accompany each corresponding prototype.

OpenLCB Friday July 8 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Bob Jacobsen Convention Center 309
OpenLCB is an open community of model railroad, electronics and software hobbyists to create new electronics for controlling model railroads. We are creating a layout control bus (LCB) that connects boards & programs. The result is easy to use, customizable, and brings new capabilities to model railroaders.

This session will bring together the OpenLCB developer community to talk about what we've been doing and share ideas about what to work on next. Since this week is the first time many of us will have gotten together in person, it'll also be a chance to show off what we've accomplished this week. Come see some of the most interesting developments in layout controls.
http://openlcb.org
Electronics, Signals

Sierra Pacific Sawmill Q&A Friday July 8 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Jim Zeek and Mark Luster Convention Center 319
Jim Zeek will host and guest host Mr. Mark Luster, Community Relations Manager for Sierra Pacific Industries will host a question and answer session on the Sierra Pacific Sawmill. The Event is open to both those attending the tour as well as those who might be interested in lumber mills.

Streamlined Trains in California Friday July 8 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Paul Hobbs Convention Center 314
Beginning in 1936 California was witness to an interesting variety of streamlined passenger trains, some of the finest in the land. We will discuss the routes and unique features of the trains operated by several well-known railroads serving the Golden State, through to the introduction of Amtrak in 1971.

Vision and the Aging Modeler Friday July 8 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Richard Meetz, OD MS FAAO Convention Center 312
The ability to do prolonged detail work at near changes with age. Mature modelers must also change how they model either by changing scales or by the use of vision-aids & lighting. This clinic will explain what difficulties these age-related changes present to the modeler. Discussed in detail will be methods of compensating for these changes so that modeling activities need not be curtailed or abandoned as the modeler ages. With these methods, the modeler can pursue detailed modeling, even in the smaller scales, for hours at a time without eyestrain or discomfort.

Game Night Friday July 8 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Convention Center 301 (Non-Rail)
Come join us as we play all kinds of games. The afternoon clinic taught many new ones and we will have some of the favorites and classics.
Non-Rail

Bargain Wines from the Western States: A Wine Tasting Clinic Friday July 8 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Richard and Sandra Hendrickson Sheraton Hotel: McGinnis Room
Why a Wine Tasting Clinic at an NMRA Convention?

Because:

  1. Most NMRA members and their significant others are interested in other things besides trains, and those interests often include good food and wine.
  2. High quality table wines are among the more celebrated regional products of California and the Pacific Northwest.
  3. We gave a similar clinic at the 2000 NMRA convention in San Jose and it was well received, so here we go again.
For people who like table wine, or at least think they might, and want to know more about buying it at reasonable prices and serving it confidently. We'll talk about how to get the most out of wine tasting, and we'll then serve 2 oz. samples of eight California, Oregon, and Washington wines, four whites and four reds, which can be purchased for $12 a bottle or less. We'll talk about the wines, answer questions, and give each participant a handout with much information about wines, wine buying, and wine serving. There will be a $15 per person charge to cover the cost of the wine and the nibbles that accompany it. Limited to 24 participants. See the "Company Store" to purchase a ticket for this clinic.
Non-Rail

Craftsman Structures Tips & Tricks Friday July 8 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Art Fahie (Bar Mills Models) Convention Center 309
Art Fahie from Bar Mills Models will be presenting various tips and tricks for building a detailing craftsman kits.

Easy City Streets Using Sintra Friday July 8 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jim Sacco Convention Center 312
What is Sintra and what is it good for? Come and find out why it is a neat, easy-to-use alternative to many commonly used methods of making city streets. Clinic also includes some basic guidelines for modeling urban streets that are applicable to most methods of street construction.
Scenery

Passenger Trains in California 1971 - 2011 Friday July 8 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Paul Hobbs Convention Center 314
Paul Hobbs will discuss Amtrak's impact on passenger service as well as commuter trains and light rail developments in the golden state.

Quilt Shop Hop Saturday July 9 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
(0) Unknown
We will carpool and visit different quilt and fabric stores in the Sacramento area. Come by the Non Rail room on Monday & Tuesday and sign up. This is an exciting trip because you never know where the perfect piece of fabric will be.
Non-Rail

Layout Design Tricks Saturday July 9 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jim Betz Convention Center 310
This clinic is a slide presentation focusing on the ways you can make your layout -look- bigger thru the use of subtle scenery, trackage, and structure techniques. The target audience is - any one who is interested in ways to make a layout "look better".
LDSIG

Telecommunications for Model Railroaders Saturday July 9 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Seth Neumann Convention Center 312
Communications play an important role in any operating model railroad. This clinic explores the history of communications technology on prototype railroads and discusses how to model these systems for period operations. The major focus is on telephone based communications as used from 1920s until radio became ubiquitous in the 1980s.
Electronics, OPSIG

35 Years on the Sacramento Central Saturday July 9 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Dick Witzens Convention Center 312
The story of the Sacramento Modular Railroaders and their club railroad, the Sacramento Central. For about 35 years, SMR has been an innovative group. We've been doing switchlist operations for many years, on a modular layout that changes at each setup.. We've developed lightweight, versatile modules that can combine quickly into railroads of many sizes (up to 40 by 60 feet or more), and of many shapes. For example, our main switchyard can be 30 or 36 feet long, in either a straight through or Tee configuration. Typical layout setup time runs about 1 1/2 hours, and is done without tools. Learn how we do this and more, how we've lasted that long, and are still at it. We'll be featured in an early 2011 article in Model Railroader, and come see us at the National Train Show during the convention.

Sunset Valley Oregon System and Grand Rails 2012 Saturday July 9 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 314
The SVOS occupies 2600 sqft with up to 4 decks. Its dominate roll is maximizing prototypical fidelity and operations. Based upon specific prototypes, over 1000 structures are being constructed along with 150 feet of bridges and trestles. It’s a monumental project with over 1400 feet of main/branch line trackage modeling 10 prototype railroads in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Chubb explains how the teamwork of 38 associates is pulling together to have the system ready for the 2012 NMRA National in Grand Rapids where it will be on tour all day every day throughout the convention. In addition to the 38 regular scheduled tours, Bruce explains how the SVOS id setting up to host a 12-hour pre-convention operating session.
LDSIG, NMRA

The Sierra Railroad: Modeling and Operating a Shortline Saturday July 9 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Zach Convention Center 310
John Zach will discuss the "Why's and How's" of modeling and operating a shortline railroad, using his own HO Scale Sierra Railroad 1955 as an example. This HO scale model railroad is based on the Sierra Railroad that started its long and glorious history in 1897 and is still in operation today. The time frame for the layout is the Spring of 1955 when the first diesels (Baldwin S-12s) arrive on the railroad and the logging railroads of the Pickering and WSLCo are still going strong. Currently we move 180 cars per operating session. This includes cars on the SP and ATSF that interchange with the Sierra or have a destination in Oakdale. It does not count the Passenger cars of the Sierra or the SP or the 56 log cars of the Pickering Railroad or any of the WSLCo equipment. More than once the comment has been made that if the Sierra moved as many cars as we do they would have never filed bankruptcy or had any financial problems.
http://www.sierrarailroad55.com
OPSIG

Sierra Railway: Modeling the Angels Branch Saturday July 9 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Glenn Sutherland Convention Center 310
The colorful Sierra Railway has often been described as the "perfect prototype." In this clinic, long-time Sierra fan and modeler Glenn Sutherland will demonstrate that this is just as true for the railroad's Angels Branch as it is for the Sierra as a whole. The Sierra Railway was built in 1897 to connect the gold mines and lumber mills of Tuolumne County, CA with the outside world. Shortly thereafter, the railroad built its 19-mile Angels Branch to reach the neighboring town of Angels Camp and the freight potential of the numerous gold mines operating in the area. From 1902 to 1939, the quaint and picturesque Angels Branch used unique equipment to haul heavy loads up and down steep grades, across a major river, and through 4 switchbacks. After a very brief overview of the entire Sierra Railway, Glenn will describe and show historic photos of the Angels Branch and its colorful history. Then Glenn will describe how to model the branch, including its signature scenes, key structures, unique equipment, and operating practices. He will show examples from his own HO scale prototype-based Sierra Railway layout (circa 1923), which includes a 160' long depiction of the Angels Branch.

Signaling Your Model Railroad: Part 1 Saturday July 9 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 314
Fundamental Concepts: Prototype and Model Bruce expands upon the Signaling Made Easier series published in MR, and the newly released multi-volume Railroader’s Application Handbook to cover prototypical signaling and how to adapt it to our models. The differences between ABS, APB and CTC signaling are discussed along with their impact on how railroads operate. A clear understanding is established regarding the difference between block and interlocking signals, speed versus route signaling and the corresponding aspects and indications used by different railroads and how they can be adapted to our models. Correct signal placement, total compatibility with DCC and how to easily drive different signal types are addressed. Bruce explains how to use the new Super Mini-Node card coupled with the power of the computer to joyfully reduce layout wiring and significantly reduce system cost while maximizing system flexibility and prototype fidelity.
http://www.jlcenterprises.net/
Signals, Electronics, LDSIG

The Slim Princess: SP's Narrow Gauge Line in the Owens Valley Saturday July 9 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Matthew Buck Convention Center 312
Matt will present a 3 part clinic about the Southern Pacific's narrow gauge line through the Owens Valley. Part 1 Route and history of the rails: The history of the road starting with the first rails laid by the Carson and Colorado up to the abandonment of the route by the Southern Pacific. Key historical influences of the area and decisions made by the officers of the road are examined and understood. Geography and topography will be detailed as well as changes of route throughout the life of the 80 year road. Part 2 Places and Industries along the Way: The operation and maintenance of the road will be discussed. The hows and whys of Industrial comings and goings will be detailed as we move through the route of the Slim Princess. A chronological discovery will take place in each of the towns and significant places along the right of way. The daily operations throughout the life of the road will be understood. Part 3 The equipment and rolling stock of the line: From the Locomotive back to the Caboose, all of the types and details of the cars will be discussed during this clinic. A key understanding of why the road was stocked with the cars and engines it had will be covered. The history of cars from origin to scrapped will be discussed.
Narrow Gauge

From Basement to Benchwork Saturday July 9 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Rich Coleman Convention Center 310
Rich Coleman will share methods for building wooden benchwork. He'll explain some tried and true techniques, and unique ways of applying them. Rather than just presenting construction “in a vacuum,” Rich will use his own layout as a case study. Various forms of L-girder, open grid, and plywood techniques will be discussed, including the use of spline roadbed, integrating work surfaces and car card boxes. Most importantly, Rich will share his lessons learned from triumphs and mistakes along the way.

Signaling Your Model Railroad: Part 2 Saturday July 9 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 314
ABS, APB and Grade Crossing Warning Systems Expanding upon the content of the Railroader’s Application Handbook, Bruce provides detailed coverage of optimized block occupancy detection and its application to establish Automatic Block Signaling (ABS) including its programming. Then, Bruce explains how the prototype utilizes “Traffic Sticks” to determine directional movement across block boundaries. Such capability plays a key role in setting up Absolute Permissive Block (APB) signaling thereby providing protection for bi-directional operation on the same track. The importance of “traffic sticks” in setting up grade crossing warning systems is discussed along with its utilization with a new Prototypical Grade Crossing Control (PGCC) card. Software examples are included for ABS, APB and for driving the PGCC.
http://www.jlcenterprises.net/
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

Signaling Your Model Railroad: Part 3 Saturday July 9 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Bruce Chubb, MMR Convention Center 314
Centralized Traffic Control Systems Bruce explains CTC operations and how it can smooth traffic flow on your railroad. As illustrated, constructing a dispatcher’s CTC panel and interfacing it to your railroad is much easier than most modelers realize. Differences between US&S and GRS machines are explained and how their different components are interfaced. Straightforward programming techniques are introduced making is easy to “cut-paste-and-change-numbers” to set up a highly accurate C/MRI-based CTC system for any model railroad. Utilizing a standardized set of callable subroutines makes the programming easy while maximizing prototype fidelity. Additionally, entrance-exit interlocking is discussed along with using computer graphics to emulate modern dispatching operations.
http://www.jlcenterprises.net/
Electronics, LDSIG, Signals

This page last updated:

Search this website

Selection Menu
All Clinics
NASG Only
Non-Rail Only
By Topic
By Day
By Presenter
Select One
By Title or
  Description