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June 2009, Volume 38 No. 10, Page 3

Minutes of the Division Meeting

Ken Granzin, Company Clerk

The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. John Williams introduced two visitors. He asked that those pre-sent observe a moment of silence in memory of our recently departed member, David Purcell.

Jim Fuqua gave the Treasurer’s report, and Jack Mershon reported on the meeting of the Finance Committee. It appears the club will need to raise dues, but there is nothing definite on the new amount at this time. The funds in our accounts are held at the current level to ensure we have money “up front” for our annual train show. A discussion followed.

Fred Coleman reported on members’ health issues. John spoke of our need to plan for exiting the barn as the space is needed for other uses by the school. We must leave within 90 days, and we may have to leave by 1 July. There are possible options for locating on the Eliada grounds. We’ll know more by the end of May. Penn Bullock provided additional information on the upcoming move.

Wally Brown spoke of the schedule for operating sessions and the fun runs now held before the monthly meetings. Members are encouraged to come to fun runs and operate locomotives with ei-ther analog or digital controls. Wally would like to hold class sessions on the RailOp computer pro-gram. He asked for e-mails expressing interest in participating in these classes involving the pro-gram he uses for creating operating schedules.

Ben presenting MMR Certificate to Joe Norris Ben Bartlett reported on the achievement program and spoke of its value. Joe Norris received NMRA Awards for Scenery and Engineer, electrical. Ben asked that anyone who holds a Golden Spike or other AP certificate should send him an e-mail stating its origin and the qualifications that were met.

John reminded members of the SER convention to be held 12-14 June in Pensacola. The fee is still $75. The National NMRA convention will be held 5-11 July in Hartford. A 6-month “Railpass” membership is available from the NMRA for $9.95. It includes monthly issues of Scale Rails.

Ben reported on accomplishments at the Apple Valley Club. They involve lighting for buildings on the newer layout and what to do with the old Asheville section. The club has a new 7/8 scale steam locomotive.

John reported on progress on the Lake Junaluska layout. Some of Jack’s models will be displayed there.

Rob Bell spoke about the Waynesville Cub Scouts’ module-making activities. They have finished eight modules. Bill Siebert and Jack Mershon received certificates for their contributions toward this achievement.

Webmaster Dave Anderson reminded members to ensure he has their current e-mail address so they can receive the Semaphore in timely fashion via the internet.

The annual picnic will be held at a date in July yet to be established. The date will be promulgated at the June meeting.

John spoke of the field trip to the NC Transportation Museum proposed for May. He suggested dates for the trip. He provided a sign-up sheet for those interested in participating. Members can contact John via e-mail about participation.

After the break Frank Pearsall gave a comprehensive rundown on the many magazines published to provide information and entertainment for scale-model railroaders. He presented information on their content, price, and frequency of publication, as well as how to contact the publisher via USPS and e-mail. He even cited magazines that are now defunct. Frank provided actual copies as exam-ples to be perused after the meeting.