February 2010 - the 4th Division â¢ PNR â¢ NMRA

Issue 517 • February 2010 Page 1 

The 

Grab-Iron 

Issue 517• February 2010 

The official publication of the Fourth Division, Pacific Northwest Region, National Model Railroad Association 

In This Issue: 

PSC Show a 

Success! 

Golden Grab-Iron 

Awards 

Clinic & Modular 

Group Reports

Page 2 Issue 517 • February 2010 

Dennis Hill 

Another year of the Pacific Science Center Show—and another success! Once again the volunteers, led by 

the PSC Show Committee of Frank Dekker, Jeff Moorman and, for the first time, Rob Jones, produced another 

winner. The many volunteers that helped out over Martin Luther King Weekend did a fantastic job of making 

nearly 15,000 attendees aware of trains and the joy this hobby offers people of any age. My thanks to everyone 

who participated! 

The PNR Convention is coming to the 4 th Division this September. It begins with the PNR Board meeting 

and a social on Wednesday, September 15 th and concludes with the Awards Banquet on Saturday, September 

18 th . In between, we’ll have clinics for every level of skill; prototype tours; contests for models, photos, and 

crafts; special AP Assessment judging; layout tours in all scales; our annual membership meeting; and much 

more. All of this for the low, low price for NMRA members of only $40. (The banquet is only another $35 per 

person.) It will be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Lynnwood. Special room rates include a full cooked-toorder 

breakfast and added benefits make this a real opportunity for a fantastic time! See the registration form at 

www.4dPNR.org. 

Nominations are being accepted for the offices of Superintendent and Director, Position Two. Any member 

of the NMRA living in the 4 th Division is welcome to participate. Dennis Hill and J.J. Johnston have agreed to 

run again but anyone else that would like to help is certainly encouraged to step forward! 

The United Northwest Show in Monroe, Washington, benefiting 4H programs, will be February 6–7. Please 

show your support by attending this really fine Train Show and Swap Meet. 

We plan to bring back the 4D’s Spring Meet in 2011. Any input or suggestions are welcome. Please contact 

me at toontrain@yahoo.com with your ideas. We voted to skip the Spring Meet this year because of the PNR 

Convention. In the past, the Spring Meet was pushed aside due to other train-related shows, or held as an add-on to other events. In 

2011 we want to make this the beginning of a new and different show for members and guests of the 4 th Division. Your help will be 

appreciated. 

The 4D’s quarterly Board of Directors meeting will be held Saturday, February 13 th at the Yankee Grill in Renton, Washington at 1 

PM. As always, all 4D members are invited to attend. 

Thanks and “Keep on Training!” 

From the Superintendent’s Desk 

4D News 

Jeff Moorman attempts 

to put on a 

good face despite 

spending all of his 

waking hours working 

on the 2010 PSC 

Train Show. 

Layouts Needed for Cascadian International 2010 Tours 

Clay Hanson 

The Pacific Northwest Region’s Annual Convention, the Cascadian International 2010, will be held September 16–18, 2010 at the Embassy 

Suites Hotel in Lynnwood. We want to show conventioneers the great layouts we have here in the 4 th Division. 

If you’re willing to share your layout with visitors during the convention, please contact me by April 30, 2010. Because of the 

NMRA insurance policy conditions, every layout tour host is required to be a current NMRA member. (There will be no exceptions to 

this requirement.) Please email me the following information: 

• Name, email, telephone number, mailing address, street address (if different) 

• Name of layout, size, and scale 

• Brief description of your layout and the period you model 

• Number of persons that can view the layout at once 

• Access for wheelchair and other physically-challenged persons 

• If there are times when the layout is not available 

As it can still be warm in mid-September, it would be helpful if you could provide refreshments such as cold drinks, cookies, or 

other snacks. Travel to the layouts will be by cars; there will be no tour buses. Car pooling is encouraged. Email or postal mail your 

information to me at 1555 Union Ave NE #31, Renton, WA 98059-3968, chskier736@comcast.net. Thank you! 

Cover Photo 

Doug Bulger 

Our 2008 and 2009 Golden Grab Iron winners, Ed and Gay Liesse, congratulate each other for their awards, given at the recent Pacific 

Science Center Annual Train Show, January 18. Article on page 4.


Golden Grab-Iron Service Awards go to Gay and Ed Liesse 

Al Lowe 

The Golden Grab-Iron Service Award is given each year to a 

member of the 4th Division, Pacific Northwest Region, National 

Model Railroad Association, who exemplifies service to the organization. 

For 2008 and 2009 the selection committee has chosen 

Gay & Ed Liesse for their many contributions to the hobby, 

the NMRA, and especially the 4th Division. 

Ed has been an NMRA member for over 50 years; a frequent 

clinician at both the regional and national levels; a PNR Contest 

Judge, AP Judge, and AP participant; was PNR Regional Secretary 

for five years; a constant attendee and contributor to the 4D 

Tacoma clinic; has served on numerous 4D mini-meet committees; 

and has been a principle clinician for 4D train shows. He 

currently serves as the PNR Education Chair. 

Gay was the PNR Switchlist editor for four years; a primary 

player in the 4D Tacoma clinic; hosted out-of-state clinicians, 

providing room, board and transportation; and is an AP program 

participant. 

Gay & Ed have attended 15 consecutive National Conventions, 

volunteering their services to each convention’s committee 

to serve in any capacity needed. They were primary members of 

the PSX 2004 Convention Committee, with Gay working as Convention 

Secretary and Non-Rail Hospitality Chair, while Ed 

chaired Facilities and Clinics. They both attended the National 

Conventions in Ft. Lauderdale, Toronto, and St Louis for the 

primary purpose of “selling” the Seattle convention and working 

the PSX 2004 registration desk. In addition, they have attended 

11 consecutive PNR Conventions. They currently serve as PNR 

Co-Office Managers. 

Their involvement and leadership with the education and 

encouragement of new and younger modelers is unmatched, as is 

their ability to sell the hobby and the benefits of NMRA membership. 

Olympia Model Railroad Layout Tour 

To all our fellow 4D Grab- 

Ironers: 

Scott Buckley 

The Olympia Open House & Operations Group (OO&OG) will be hosting the Seventh Annual Olympia 

Layout Tour on Saturday, March 27, 2010. Ten layouts have committed to be on the tour, with the possibility 

of two more. Various scales and gauges will be represented, including N, HO, On30 and 3/8n20. Jim 

Younkins’ N scale Mud Bay & Southern and Greg Wright’s 3/8n20 Consolidated Republic Mining Railroad have 

been featured in national publications. Many of these layouts are under construction, which gives visitors the 

opportunity to see each builder’s construction methods. 

As with last year, a few of the layouts will be open early, while a few will stay open later, to give visitors the 

opportunity to see as many layouts as possible. We hope that you will take the opportunity to visit our layouts. 

There aren’t many chances to see this many layouts at one time without spending the money to attend a convention. 

I’ll have additional information, including how to request your tour map, soon. Contact sbuckley@nwrain.com, 

360-352-5567 if you have questions. 

Helping on the N Scale Children’s Layout 

A special thanks to all of you 

for honoring us with the Golden 

Grab-Iron Awards for 2008 and 

2009. We are humbled to think 

you deem us worthy of this recognition. 

It helps make the years of 

participation and volunteering 

worthwhile, though we’d do it all 

for the love of model railroading 

and for the chance to know and 

work with all of you — without 

any special recognition. 

Gay and Ed Liesse 

Clay Hanson 

Helping at the Pacific Science Center Model Railroad Show is a fun-filled experience! I was in charge of the N 

scale children’s layout during the morning of January 18 th and thoroughly enjoyed letting the children and future 

model railroaders run the train around the track. Later that day, I helped children make scale trees. Both 

were lots of fun. If you have not yet helped at the show, by all means volunteer to do so next year. You will 

enjoy it! 

Grab-Iron Service 

Award Winners 

1955 George Heliotis 

1956 Dee Cowan 

1957 Walt Mendenhall 

1958 Don Lind 

1959 Ed Hibben 

1960 Howard Durfy 

1961 Robert Johnson 

1962 Herb Chaudiere 

1963 Chuck Allen 

1964 Brian Ellerby 

1965 Carl Hadeen 

1966 J. Woodrow Matthews 

1967 Philip H. Kohl 

1968 Donald C. Dietrich 

1969 Duane Damgaard 

1970 Kenneth Schmelzer 

1971 Robert L. Tunnard 

1972 Richard Day 

1973 Keith & Dawn Newsom 

1974 Nathan Oxhandler 

1975 Chuck Evans 

1976 Lou & Pat Toppano 

1977 Robert M. Smith 

1978 Vic Stuhr 

1979 Dave Hoffer 

1980 Pat & Lou Toppano 

1981 Tony Raimondi 

1982 Howard Bell 

1983 Dan Peters 

1984 Walter R. Hanson 

1985 Roger F. Horne 

1986 Tom Schuh 

1987 Roger Ferris 

1988 Louise Clough 

1989 Richard “Dick” Roth 

1990 Al James 

1991 Rolan Brockhoff 

1992 Marshall Wilson 

1993 Al Carter 

1994 Keith Lyons 

1995 Bob Chapman 

1996 Robert “Bobj” Berger 

1997 Kenneth L. Gentili 

1998 Dale & Diane Kraus 

1999 Jim Easley 

2000 John & Jan Becker 

2001 Gene Swanson 

2002 Dave Kreitler 

2003 Didrick Voss 

2004 Frank Dekker 

2005 Jack Hamilton 

2006 Jeff Moorman 

2007 Al Lowe 

2008 Gay Liesse 

2009 Ed Liesse


The PSC 2010 Show Committee Thanks You! 

Frank Dekker 

Thank you for making the Pacific Science Center 2010 show a success. The event is over, the public was entertained and the Science 

Center staff is happy! 

Attendance of 14,420 was down slightly from last year, perhaps affected by the economy. A 15' display case was new this year, long 

enough to display a 15 car Lionel train, courtesy of Jerry Strand. Bobj Berger used the remaining space to display a collection of NMRA 

convention cars, from the C Lippencott estate. We hope to expand this display for future years, including more explanation of the types 

of cars on display. 

The Bellingham Railroad Museum was a new exhibitor this year. They brought a speeder for children to examine, a video, and a MS 

Train Simulator station. 

Jeannie Melvin organized a “Make and Take a Tree” clinic for children; it was so popular that a re-supply run was needed to continue 

it on Monday! Many thanks to Jeannie and her helpers: Phil and Susan Gonzales, Al Frasch, and Bob Rorabaugh. Others also stepped in 

to help run this clinic — thank you! 

We provided several opportunities for guests of all ages to run trains: 

• The 4D HO modular group brought a triple track loop for the younger set. Thank you HO modulars and helpers 

from the Bremerton Northern club. 

• The 4D Hi-Rail modular group brought a double track loop for the youngsters, operating vintage Lionel trains older 

than most of those in attendance. 

• Kent Sullivan, of the 4dNTRAK modular group, brought a 1-track loop with siding. Thank you to the group members 

who supervised this loop during 3 days of show. 

• Wm Harper, of the Whidbey Island Model Railroad Club, brought an HO switching puzzle, and spent the majority 

of three days helping kids have fun. 

• Al Turnbull brought an NTRAK layout with multiple operating positions for kids, also helping kids run trains three 

days. 

• Russ Segner provided an HO switching puzzle, manned by 4D volunteers. 

• Tots operated the battery-powered riding train supplied and manned by PSC. 

Operating layouts were present in O (hi-rail), HO, and N, and large-scale (PlayMobil). We appreciate the efforts from each group and 

positive interaction with the public. Special thanks to those exhibitors who, as parents and grandparents, showed that children can participate 

with the grown-ups in this hobby. 

Dennis Hill manned the 4D Membership Booth for three days, with help from Jim Beyerly, Bill Hupe and Roger Ferris. The PSGRS 

had an information table, promoting their upcoming national convention. Baby Gramps brought his ever-changing display. The Northwest 

Public Transportation Historical Group increased the size of their display. The Northwest Railway Museum of Snoqualmie brought 

an information display, which attracted a lot of attention to their growing museum. Three of these exhibits included operating trains or 

streetcars, increasing our count of running trains. United NW club had good public interaction via a table, manned with different demonstrations 

during the weekend. 

In addition to people named above, I need to acknowledge other volunteers who gave help during the 2010 show: 

• Jerry Strand, security desk and exhibiter check in on Friday evening and for all three show days. Thank You! 

• Part-time help: Russ Segner, Ed Liesse, Clay Hanson, Walt and Nancy Huston, Cliff and Nathan Green, Ken and 

Brian Liesse, Stu Rogers, Di Voss, Jim Bainbridge, and Chris Cranmore. Thank You! 

• Everyone who operated the display and kiddie layouts, and who interacted with the public in a positive way! Thank 

You! 

• A special thank you to all who helped despite their personal physical limitations! 

• Another special thanks to Ed Liesse and Bob Rorabaugh for giving the crew lounge equipment a special cleaning at 

the end of the show. Ready for next year! 

Finally, Jeff and Frank appreciate Rob Jones for stepping forward during 2009 to join the committee. We appreciate his support before 

and during the show and look forward to continuing to work together for 2011. 

Your input and suggestions for improving the show are always welcome. Please contact one of the committee members: Jeff 

Moorman, Frank Dekker, or Rob Jones. Our contact information is listed in the 4D staff roster in this issue or on the 4D web site. Of 

course, you may also provide input through 4D Superintendent Dennis Hill or any 4D board member. 

Thanks again to all who spent time at Pacific Science Center to provide a show for the public! 

My First Time on the Time-Saver 

Christine Cranmore 

The 4D HO Modular Group brought its Time-Saver Switching Module to the recent Pacific Science Center show as a tool to let 

young people learn the basics of switching trains. With the use of the E-Z Command module and a highlighted layout, they were able to


learn how to maneuver an engine and one car from one track to another. There are three starting points and two destinations, a good 

variety of switches, and one needs to do a series of maneuvers to switch from one destination to the other. 

I am a newer member of the Bremerton Northern HO Model Railroading Club and had no experience with this module or such maneuvers, 

so it was also a great learning experience for me! I not only appreciated learning a new task, but learning it while helping others. 

I was told that one “couldn’t” derail the engine on this module, but the young people did. One ran the train down the dead end track. (I 

was able to stop it before it fell off the table.) Others tried to throw a switch while the engine was too close to it, derailing the loco. Some 

tried to run too fast. But mostly, it was a pleasure to see them learn and successfully move the train to all destinations with little or no 

errors. There was also a place in the rails, with some expertise and practice, where the car could be disconnected magnetically from the 

engine. One adult visitor was able to very easily maneuver the train, but then confessed that he worked for BNSF. 

The NMRA and the Howell Day Museum 

Jack Hamilton 

I received this response from NMRA President Mike Brestel regarding the confusion and concern over the recent article in Model 

Railroading magazine about the NMRA and the Howell Day Museum. I thought everyone would benefit from reading it. 

Relationship of NMRA and the Howell Day Museum 

The Howell Day Museum has been funded from the beginning with no, as in zero, member dues dollars or NMRA general funds. 

This was a commitment we made when the museum was set up, and we have honored that commitment without exception. The Museum 

has been funded through donations and the sale of surplus equipment donations as well as limited edition, custom decorated cars. 

The items in the CSRM gallery exhibit do not become the property of the CSRM, they remain the property of the Howell Day Museum. 

So we give them nothing, while they give us free space in which to promote the hobby (and incidentally the NMRA) to the 

600,000 visitors who pass through the CSRM each year. 

The $500K or more that it will cost to build the display will come from donations, grants, etc. Not one dime of member dues or 

NMRA money will be used to fund the exhibit. If the money cannot be raised, then the exhibit will not be built and the HDM withdraws 

from the agreement, owing the CSRM nothing. 

While the HDM has long been a committee of the NMTA BOD (BOT), it has always been the plan that at the appropriate time the 

Museum would form its own corporation with its own board. Work is nearly complete on the separate incorporation of the Howell Day 

Museum, and soon the Museum will become a separate, but affiliated, non-profit corporation (incorporated in CA, rather than in OH, as 

is the NMRA). At that time the NMRA, which has for many years has held the Museum’s funds in a restricted account, will turn over 

those funds to the new corporation. 

The CSRM site was selected after an exhaustive search by the Museum Committee. No other site in the U.S. that could boast of a 

facility of similar high quality offered comparable space or attendance. From the beginning of the search, the CSRM staff has been enthusiastic 

and helpful, and their generosity was unmatched by other possible venues. With air travel, northern California is far easier and 

cheaper for most of the country to reach than is, say, Chattanooga, so the CSRM’s location on the West Coast is not a serious handicap. 

The Library is not part of the Museum deal. We approached the CSRM with the idea of a merger with their library, with NMRA 

members not only retaining access to the current collection, but also enjoying the benefits of access to the CSRM Library’s world-class 

collection and facilities, with a collection about ten times the size of the NMRA’s. At this date, we have not begun any discussions with 

the CSRM Library, and we have no idea when or even if this merger will occur. 

The NMRA is giving away nothing and risking nothing in this agreement. At this time we don’t know what we will receive in return, 

but I believe that this arrangement with the CSRM affords us an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate the hobby, its history, and its 

pioneers over the past 75 years. While we’re at it, we can introduce scale model railroading and the NMRA to hundreds of thousands of 

people each year. 

In our first 75 years, no better chance has arisen to tell our story to millions of people interested in railroads. So I ask you: If not the 

NMRA, then who? If not now, then when? If not at the CSRM, then where? 

Northwest Railway Museum’s Bi-Annual Benefit March 5 th 

Sue VanGerpen 

This spring, the Northwest Railway Museum’s bi-annual benefit promises to be a culture and history-filled evening, featuring a delicious 

dinner, prize-winning author, and local entertainment. You are cordially invited to join us for Working on the Railroad, Friday, March 

5, 2010 at TPC Snoqualmie Ridge, 36005 SE Ridge St, Snoqualmie, WA. 

Featuring excerpts from the Museum’s newest exhibit, Wellington Remembered, the tickets-only event includes a no-host bar, hors d’ oeuvres 

and dinner. Jim Kelly, Executive Director of 4Culture and a leader in the arts and historic preservation field, has graciously consented 

to emcee the evening’s line-up of activities. A musical interlude will be provided by the Issaquah Singers, who have prepared a songbook 

of railroad-themed music. A brief auction of selected big ticket items will precede the feature presentation of the evening. 

Gary Krist will present a slide show and conversation about his book The White Cascade. A skilled storyteller, Krist is able to spellbind 

the reader, all the while informing with fact and painting with details. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at the Snoqualmie Depot or 

by phone at 425-888-3030, x202.


Layouts Needed for National Narrow Gauge Convention Tour 

Paul Scoles 

In September 2012, the National Narrow Gauge Convention will come to the Seattle area and the 4 th Division. Typically, NG conventions 

are the largest and best model railroad events of the year and we want to make 2012 special. To that end, we are seeking well-done 

layouts available for layout tours. HO, N, O, S, or large scale, narrow gauge or standard gauge, quality is what counts. If you have a layout 

that you would like to submit for consideration, please contact me, pbscoles@yahoo.com, 206-546-8012. 

We’d also like to publish photo stories of at least some of these layouts in advance of the convention. What great fun! Layout tours 

and photo stories in national magazines of 4 th Division members’ layouts. Please give me a call or e-mail right away to be considered. 

Clinic & Modular Group Reports 

Eastside Get-Together 

JJ Johnston 

The January clinic set a record for attendance. 58 folks came to see the incredible 

presentation from professional artist Todd Gamble of Eastside Trains on modeling water 

techniques, including raging rivers, waterfalls, and even how to make icicles. Todd 

brought a fabulous HO locomotive door prize generously donated by Steve Suskin, 

owner of Eastside Trains in Kirkland (see photo). Be sure to thank Steve when you see 

him. Todd has been the new manager at Eastside Trains for a few months, and he’s doing 

some wonderful new scenery at the store. He handed out discount coupons to everyone. 

The evening was a total success. See Todd’s versatile work at his website, 

www.ToddGambleArt.com. 

It seemed everyone did lots of building over the holidays and “Model of the Month” 

had entries from many: Bobj and his fortunate “below cost” acquisition of Aristo-Craft 

heavy units; Dennis Hill with a scratchbuilt control tower from plans in the Narrow Gauge 

Gazette; Jim Sabol displaying different versions of his O scale Milwaukee freight cars; 

Paul Vaughn showing some beautiful UP running gear with a big blow in Sn3; Bob Rorabaugh 

continuing to expertly model flat car loads from old cars bought from the Mart 

and loads from old watches and his junk box; and Rob Jones sharing his logging diorama in N scale and a ConCor UP M-1000 model. 

The proud winner was George Chambers with his fabulous S scale tavern. Congratulations to everyone — it was a collection of outstanding 

quality! 

Our Christmas collection raised $680, which we donated to the Bellevue Foursquare Church for allowing us to use their great meeting 

room and kitchen facility as well as their coffee and supplies and at no charge. The funds were used to assist church members in need. 

Two families received money to help pay their rent after experiencing unforeseen medical expenses; one lady received funds to assist her 

in her pastoral studies for future missionary work; a single mother with three children who comes to the church’s food bank and is medically 

challenged got money for her family; a couple who lost their jobs got help with their rent and Christmas gifts; and two kids whose 

mothers have been abused, suffer from addictions, and live in a rehab center the church helps support. There were many “Thank You” 

cards sent to our group from the recipients. This is our way of thanking the church for their generosity to us and allowing us to help 

those less fortunate in these exceptionally trying times. God bless. 

The Mart featured a $50,000.00 N scale collection which Roger and Bobj are handling. CJ Turner had his best coffee and donuts for 

all. Clay Hanson served as greeter and made certain everyone had their door prize and “Model of the Month” ballot. 

Mark your calendar now for our next meeting on Thursday, February 18. We’ll give advance notice of the program so keep watching 

this channel. 

Tacoma N Scalers 

Todd Gamble of Eastside Trains awards this 

months Eastside Get Together door prize to 

Walt Huston 

The Tacoma N Scalers met on Thursday, January 7, 2010 at the Fircrest Recreation Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 

PM at the direction of Benevolent Dictator Walt Huston. We had one first timer and one member who has returned after a very long 

absence (work really does get in the way of modeling). 

I let everyone know “What’s New in N Scale” according to Model Railroad News, Model Railroader, N-Scale Magazine, Micro-Trains new 

releases for January, and the next round of “Runner Packs.” I read the list of all upcoming shows and swap meets, including the Monroe 

Show, sponsored by The United Northwest Model Railroad Club. This was the annual “What I received for the holidays” meeting and, 

from the look of things, this was a very train-oriented holiday. Each attendee spoke about his treasures and there were plenty of side comments 

from the envious amongst the crowd. 

The clinic for next month, on February 4 th , is “Wiring a layout for DC and DCC.” I will be the presenter, demonstrating my fabulous 

art skills on a whiteboard. Rumor has it that the use of the whiteboard is so that the evidence can easily be destroyed.


Our March 4 th meeting will feature a clinic entitled “Making Roads,” by Jim Berling. Jim is an accomplished model road builder, having 

built about three miles of them for his layout and mine combined (scale miles). 

Come have fun with us. The 2010 clinic schedule is available at the meetings and at Online Trains, Pacific Railway Hobbies, and Tacoma 

Trains. 

The Tacoma N Scalers meet the first Thursday of the month at the Fircrest Recreation Center, 555 Contra Costa, Fircrest, WA. 

Tacoma Clinic 

Al Babinsky 

MMR Gene Swanson opened the clinic and wished everyone a Happy New Year. 

We had a total of 43 in attendance including two newcomers. Gene started a discussion 

about the NMRA insurance policy of non-members attending more than three 

times and then being required to join the NMRA. Since we are meeting in a public 

facility, the Pierce County Library Administration Building, there may be a conflict of 

interest. Gene called for a moment of silence for Dick Mohlzahn, who was a long 

time member of this clinic and PSMRE, we will sorely miss him. 

Sandy Webster, filling in for Dale Kraus from Pacific Railway Hobbies, presented 

“What’s New in the Hobby Shop.” This included a new release from LGB (now 

manufactured in Hungary) of a passenger car, a Branchline laser kit, a new 27mm 

low-tone speaker from Soundtraxx, and a 1:20.3 scale log skidder from Bachmann 

similar to the one located at camp 7 at Point Defiance Park. 

In the “Bring & Brag” (Model of the Month), a number of excellent models were 

shown, including kits either modified, scratchbuilt, or built as intended. An engine 

facility kit was modified into a fire station complete with vehicles and logging camp 

cars, and then assembled board by board out of lasercut cardboard and weathered. An S scale freight house kit was shown, also assembled 

board by board. A diorama was displayed as a work in progress with a scratchbuilt station and a couple of freight cars. A Bachmann 

Spectrum Cityscapes kit called the Ambassador Hotel was somewhat modified. A switch tower named Puddin' Creek Tower was displayed, 

scratchbuilt from drawings appearing in Scale Rails, with a detailed interior. Last, but not least, various rolling stock and motive 

power were displayed, including several O scale freight cars and a brass caboose modified with scale couplers and trucks, a UP turbine 

with tender in HO scale, a LaBelle kit of a Bible car called American Baptist Publication Society, a N scale resin Skytop Lounge 

(Hiawatha) for CN and a brass HO scale model of a Milwaukee Road Bi-Polar re-worked with NWSL gears and wheels and can motors 

to power all drive axles, containing a ESU Loksound decoder. The “Model of the Month” was won by Peter Coulton with his Ambassador 

Hotel. 

After a short break, Jim Murrie presented our clinic in an abbreviated 

version due to a communication error between him and 

Gene Swanson (both thought the other was bringing the consist 

from the PSMRE exhibit at the History Museum). Jim went 

through many steps of research and planning to obtain documentation 

and models to build the consist. It was decided to continue the 

clinic next month so that the consist is there and we can see what it 

looks like. 

All in all it was an excellent clinic and we are looking forward to 

see the actual models. To see the continuation, attend February 

11th at 7:30 PM at the Pierce County Library Administration Building, 

corner of 112th Street and Waller Road. Bring a friend and 

enjoy some refreshments and a good time. Hope to see you there. 

E s t a b l i s h e d 1 9 4 7 

www.northendtrains.com 

For the latest in engines, rolling 

stock, structures, tools, books, 

videos and other neat stuff, 

make North End Train Center 

your favorite store. 

We will gladly do special orders for 

the items we don’t carry. 

12537 Lake City Way NE 

Seattle, WA 98125 

206-362-4959 

bob@northendtrains.com 

10 to 6 Mon, Tue, Wed & Sat; 10 to 8 Thur & Fri


Seattle-North Clinic 

Bobj Berger / Photos by Bobj Berger 

We had such an overwhelming response to “Getting Loaded” at the January 

Seattle-North Clinic that we are going to have to do it some more just to finish 

what we started! We had scheduled three “Make & Take” clinics on making loads 

by Young Sam, his dad John, CJ Riley and Stu Rogers, but we only had enough 

time to work on CJ Riley’s gondola pipe load clinic. We started with CJ’s clinic 

first because of the glue drying time. Using black straws, stripwood, glue, and 

double-backed tape, we produced a very attractive removable load. It was easy to 

build from the scale-specific, multi-page instructions that included prototype material 

loading practice drawings and information, plus a reusable template for 

building a fleet of pipe loads. 

But it was “Show & Tell” that really put us over the top for time. We were 

treated to a huge number of entries, primarily following the loads theme. This turned into a whole series of mini clinics on loads: CJ’s assortment of HO 

loaded gons and flats; Jeff Moorman’s loaded truck; Stu Rogers’ iddy-biddy N scale loads, along with a freight house, and a “House of Pleasure;” Bobj’s 

load examples in O and HO scales; Bob Rorabaugh’s multiple flatcar loads using everyday stuff recycled as load parts; Joel Lichtenstein’s four creative 

loads of junk; Chris Fife’s projects under construction, with various phases of paint; and Rob Jones’ amazing 96"x30" N-scale module with loaded vehicles, 

plus multiple ore and timber loading options. Sherm Stevens had stuff to share too, but did not write down what it was on the list. 

The second section of this “Make & Take” clinic on getting stuff loaded will be the focus of our February 4, 2010 clinic. Sam and Dad have prepared 

their own PowerPoint clinic, complete with an excellent color handout for removable gon or hopper coal loads clinic. Stu Rogers’ clinic on creating ore 

car loads from pencil sharpener shavings will be moved to the March 4 th clinic because of his vacation. Watch a special treat of the new O. Winston Link 

photographic history DVD. You gotta see this one! 

Remember, we always meet the first Thursday of each month, 7 PM, in the lower level of the Ronald United Methodist Church, just north of 175 on 

Aurora Ave N (between the Cadillac dealer & Deseret Industries). Jim will have door prizes, Chris will have great refreshments, there will be more 

“Show & Tell” specializing in loads, and Roger will have a newly-acquired N-scale estate in the MART. Be there or be an even-sided rectangle. 

The Alaska Section 

Marty Quaas 

For the folks in the Anchorage area, it is just a couple of weeks to the start of the 2010 Fur Rendezvous or, as locals call it, “The 

Rondy.” There will be several model railroad displays set up around town, one at the Alaska Railroad Depot and in Russian Jack Springs 

Park, 5200 Debarr Rd. This year, the 2010 Fur Rondy will start on Friday, February 26 and run through Sunday, March 7. At the Alaska 

Railroad Depot the Military Society of Model Engineers will have a display open to the public each day from 9–6, except on the 26 th and 

6 th when they’ll remain open until 8. 

In Russian Jack Springs Park, 5200 Debarr Road, the Northern Lights Model Railroad Club will have their Alaska Northern Railroad 

open to the public on Feb 26–28 (Friday through Sunday), and Mar 5–7 (Friday through Sunday), from 4–8 PM on Friday, and 11–5 on 

Saturday and Sunday. 

These Rondy events are a great opportunity to get out and see what others are doing as well as showing your friends what the hobby 

of model railroading is all about. If you have any questions, contact me, cswrrceo@mtaonline.net, 907-355-7414. 

Skagit Valley and Whidbey NMRA Clinic 

Gordon Garnhart 

22 people attended the January 13 th clinic in the conference room of the Summer Hill Retirement Facility. The meeting was opened by 

John White with a display and discussion by Dave Laws on how to create land form contours in pink foam, and how to create ponds and 

streams. The competition for the best 12" x 24" diorama is well underway and results will be judged at our March 10 th meeting. 

The main attraction for the evening was the excellent video by Rich Thom of narrow gauge railroading in Guatemala, India and 

The trains are gone but the spirit lives on! 

Rob Jones’s “Mother of all NTRAK Modules” made an appearance 

at the January Seattle-North Clinic 

1463 Elliott Ave. W 

Seattle, WA 98119 

Kirk & Wanda 

Holmes, Owners 

Pacific Rim Hobby 

1-800-99 “HOBBY” (4-6229) 

138 W. Railroad Ave. Port Angeles WA 98362 

Mon-Sat 10-6 Sun 12-5 prhobby@olypen.com 

All scales stocked, N scale featured 

Monday-Friday 10-7, Saturday 9-6, Sunday 11-4 

(206) 283-7886 

www.seattlestraincenter.com


China. Most of the scenes were of steam operations, with a smattering of diesels and electrics. Rich is a fine photographer who has traveled 

the world over in search of unusual railroad experiences. His commentary throughout the presentation was interesting, informative 

and entertaining. He enhanced the experience by distributing a questionnaire at the beginning of his program, asking 27 questions about 

details to watch for in the video. He reviewed the questions after the show and provided the correct answers. Rich also distributed a 

handout showing maps of the routes taken, a brief history of each railroad filmed, physical descriptions of the terrain, engine identification 

information, and several key photographs of locomotives. His program was very well received. 

John White reported on the status of the ongoing discussions on NMRA insurance coverage and the pros and cons of requiring everyone 

in attendance to be an NMRA member. He also conducted a survey asking members why they are and non-members why they are 

not members. 

On February 10 th the group will meet at the home of Tom Hawkins, who will show his HO layout and demonstrate turnout construction. 

Westside Local 

Marion Weston 

The January 12 th Westside Local clinic featured a clinic by Pete Rowe showing how to scratchbuild HO-sized lumber loads. He models 

the Pacific Northwest lumber country of 1929, so has lumber in various stages from tree trunks to the finished product. Pete also won 

the “Model of the Month” for his scratch-built lumber train that looks ready to deliver to the lumberyard. There also was a discussion of 

the merits of the AP program. 

Hi-Railers Report 

Ed Ives 

We had a successful Pacific Science Center train show with throngs of public in attendance. Successful in that we didn’t drop a train 

on the floor, although we did have an unintentional cornfield meet. Funny, the public get great delight seeing one $1,600 locomotive run 

headlong into another $1,600 locomotive. (The owners of the equipment, less so.) 

The Kiddies Layout worked well and the kiddies this year were less touchy-feely than prior years. Maybe being in building #4 makes a 

difference. Sunday was a wonderful day, no trailer to drag in, no setup to do, and no teardown at the end of the day, either. Wow. 

February 6 th and 7 th will see us at Monroe at the United Northwest Train Show. March 20 th and 21 st will see us making the trek to 

Portland for the Great Train Expo. 

With just seven shows on the calendar this year we are looking for additional events to attend. We have a couple of possible new venues 

for August and September but won’t add these to the calendar until they are firmed up. 

Tacoma Trains & Hobbies 

In the heart of Tacoma's Historic Proctor District 

3813 North 26th Street, Tacoma, WA 98407 

Phone: (253) 756-7517 Fax: (253) 756-0794 

On the web at www.tacoma-trains.com 

email to TacomaTrains@aol.com 

Full Line of in-stock products in 

√ N Scale 

√ HO Scale 

√ O Scale 

√ G Scale 

√ Lionel 

Proud Supporter of the 

Pierce County Lionel Club 

Open Monday - Saturday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

Sundays 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, October through May 

PACIFIC RAILWAY HOBBIES 

SOUTH PUGET SOUND’S 

MODEL RAILROAD EXPERTS 

G - O - HO - N - Z 

Marklin, Lionel, MTH & much more 

DIGITAL COMMAND CONTROL 

Lenz, Digitrax, NCE, Atlas, MRC, DCS, 

Trainmaster 

Installation and application help always available 

(except Wednesdays) 

Decoders installed. 

Monday-Friday, 11 AM - 7 PM Saturday, 10 AM - 6 PM, 

(253) 581-4453 

9525 GRAVELLY LAKE DR. SW 

TACOMA [LAKEWOOD] WA, 98499


The Timetable 

4th Division Monthly Activities 

1st Thursday, Seattle-North Clinic, Shoreline WA, Ronald United Methodist Church, 17839 Aurora Ave N, 7:00 PM. Questions? Contact Bobj Berger, 

425-774-9165, camelrenter@yahoo.com. 

1st Thursday, Tacoma “N” Scalers Clinic, Fircrest WA, Fircrest Recreation Center, 555 Contra Costa Blvd, Fircrest WA, 7:30 PM. Questions? Contact 

Walt Huston, 253-535-2043, WaltHuston@earthlink.net. 

1st Friday, Northwest Railfan, Seattle WA, North Seattle Community College, Performing Arts Center, Meridian Avenue N, 7:30 PM. Questions? 

Contact Roger Ferris, 206-283-0637, railfun@verizon.net. 

1st Friday, Lewis County Model Railroad Club, Chehalis WA, Lewis County Historical Museum, 1912 Northern Pacific Depot, 599 NW Front 

Way, Chehalis, 6:00 PM. Operating session and layout construction. Questions? Contact Ted Livermore, Tedstrains@tds.net or museum, 360-748-0831. 

2nd Tuesday, Westside Clinic, Bremerton WA, 7:00 PM. United Way Volunteer Center, 647 4th St, Bremerton. Questions? Contact Marion Weston, 

360-633-7217, MarionandDan@live.com. 

2nd Tuesday, Ocean Shores Clinic, Ocean Shores WA. Currently on hiatus. Questions? Contact Tim Barrington, barrington_timothy@comcast.net. 

2nd Wednesday, Camano Island Model Railroad Club, Camano Island WA, 7:00 PM. Questions? Contact Tom Buckingham, work: 360-629-7810, 

home: 360-387-6128, tom@401kplanninggroup.com. 

2nd Wednesday, Skagit Valley and Whidbey Island Clinic, 7:00 PM, Summer Hill Retirement & Assisted Living Facility, 165 SW 6th Ave, Oak Harbor, 

WA 98277. Questions? Need directions? Contact Gordon Garnhart, 360-240-8875, garnhart@whidbey.net. 

2nd Wednesday, Snohomish Rail Fans Clinic, Snohomish WA, Hilton Lake Fire Station, 3525 108th Street SE, Everett, corner of 35th Ave SE and 

108th SE, 7:00 PM. Questions? Contact Ted Becker, 360-691-1830, rail.bird@att.net. 

2nd Thursday, Tacoma Clinic, Midland, WA, Pierce County Library Admin. Center, 3005 112th Street E (corner of 112th and Waller Road), 7:30 PM. 

Questions? Contact Gene Swanson, 253-537-0503. 

2nd Saturday, HO Module Meeting, Seattle WA, 8:30 AM, location TBA. Questions? Contact Norm Curtis, 425-743-9035, railmail39@verizon.net. 

2nd Saturday, HO Operating Session, Duvall WA, 12 Noon, starting October 11. Pacific Northwestern Railroad & Cherry Valley Railroad. Questions? 

Contact Tom Enloe, 425-788-1291, tomenloe@aol.com. 

3rd Tuesday, Great North End “N” Scale, Seattle WA, Shoreline Senior Center, South Annex, NE 185th St. & 1st Ave NE, 7:30 PM. Questions? 

Contact Dean Daughenbaugh, 425-252-8251, daugh@comcast.net. 

3rd Tuesday, Swamp Creek & Western Railroad Association, Edmonds WA, Baggage Room, Amtrak Depot, 210 Railroad Ave, 7:00 PM. Questions? 

Contact Bruce Harris, 425-483-3322. 

3rd Thursday, Eastside Get Together, Bellevue WA, Bellevue Four Square Church, 2015 Richards Road SE, 7: 30 PM. Questions? Contact JJ Johnston, 

425-643-1000, jj@jtwice.com. 

3rd Friday, Olympia Clinic, Olympia WA, 7:30 PM. Questions? Contact Jim Younkins, 360-357-9185, jcyounkins@comcast.net or Scott Buckley, 360- 

352-5567, sbuckley@nwrain.com. 

3rd Saturday, Northwest Pacific Z Scale, Seattle WA. Questions? Contact Tom Gilchrist, 425-226-3708, tomg@tomgtomg.com or Jim Glass, berjimgl@msn.com. 

Pacific Northwest Region Activities 

To add your activity to the PNR Timetable or the PNR web page, contact Mark Johnson, 780 436-2480, timetable@pnr.nmra.org 

Feb 6-7, Monroe, WA 

United NorthWest Model RR Club 19th Annual Charity Model Train Show and Swap Meet, Evergreen State Fairgrounds. Saturday 10-5, Sunday 10-4. 

Hosted by the United NorthWest Model RR Club. Info:- www.unwclub.org/unwshow2010.html 

Feb 13 (Sat), Spokane, WA 

River City Modelers Club Open House. 6 to 8:30 PM at 1130 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane, WA. Double deck layout under construction. Track has been 

installed and scenery is being worked on. Info:- Shirley or Bob Sample at 509-292-8332, cell 509-991-2317 or email 

shirley.sample@northwesterntrailways.com or John Langlot at 509-981-5017. 

Feb 13 (Sat), Clackamas, OR 

2nd Division Spring Mini-Meet. Clackamas Community Club meeting room, 15711 SE 90th. Starting at 10AM. Willamette Club tour, live clinic, door 

prizes Info:- www.2dpnr.org/?q=node/5 

Feb 14 (Sun), Vancouver, BC 

Mt Pleasant Lions Club Model Railroad Show Mt Pleasant Elementary School, 2300 Guelph St. 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Admission by Donation Info:- 

Sarah at 604-738-4647 or sarah@vanmtplions.com 

Feb 14 (Sun), Spokane, WA 

River City Modelers Model Railroad Train Show, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, Spokane Community College, Lair Bldg., Mission and Greene Streets, Spokane, 

WA. $5 for adults, $3 for 11 to 16 years of age, 10 & under free with an adult. Info:- Shirley or Bob Sample, P.O. Box 314, Elk, WA 99009-0314, 509- 

292-8332 or 509-991-2317 or via email: shirley.sample@northwesterntrailways.com


Feb 20-21, Olds, AB 

Olds Model Railroad show. Royal Canadian Legion 5241 46th Street. Sat 10-5 and Sun 10-4. $5.00 per person, children under 5 are free. Info:- funtimeshobby@shaw.ca 

or www.funtimeshobby.com 

Feb 20-21, Saskatoon, SK 

All Aboard 2010, Western Development Museum. Saturday 9-5:30, Sunday 9-4:30. Layouts, Vendors, and Videos. Consignment sale on Saturday. Info:- 

www.prairierailworkshop.org/ 

Feb 26 - Mar 7, Anchorage, AK 

The annual Anchorage Winter Festival, known as the Fur Rendezvous will have Model Railroad Displays at the Alaska Railroad Depot from 9AM to 

6PM. The Northern Lights Model Railroad, located in Russian Jack Springs Park, 5200 Debarr Rd. will also be displaying their Model Railroad on both 

weekends from 5 to 8 PM on Fridays and Noon to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Info:- Marty Quaas, (907) 355-7414, e-mail cswrrceo@mtaonline.net 

Mar 13 (Sat), Clackamas, OR 

The Willamette Model Railroad club presents 25th Annual Model Railroad Swap Meet at the New Hope Church 11731 SE Stevens Road. 10AM - 3PM. 

Admission $3.00, under 12 free. Tables are $18 each. Info:- Steve Cook 503-309-9543 or 503-236-1481. stephen.cook@comcast.com Table requests can 

be sent to: Willamette MRC Swap Meet P.O. Box 2621 Clackamas, Oregon 97015 

Mar 14 (Sun), Burnaby, BC 

Western Rails 2010. Displays and models of all kinds - Ride the indoor Miniature Train Collectables, photos, time tables, keys, locks, lanterns, buttons, 

china, telegraph equipment and much much more. Cameron Recreation Center, 9523 Cameron St. 9 am to 4 pm. Admittance: (cash only): Senior (60+) 

$2.00 Adult (16-59) $3.00 Child (under 6) Free Family $6.00 (Maximum 2 Adults, 3 Youth) Info:- westernrails@wcra.org 604-484-2791. 

Mar 14 (Sun), Calgary, AB 

CMRS Spring Mini Meet & Annual CMT Flea Market. Glenmore Inn. Flea market 9:00 AM - Noon Vendors $20, CMRS members $2, others $5, Mini 

Meet 10:30 - 3:30 Info:- Swap meet: Garth Praestegaard 403-650-1391 or Brookes Harrow 403-201-4937, bharrow@nucleus.com; Mini meet: Marvin 

Burk, 403-995-3319, burkpm@telus.net, www.calgarymodelrailway.ca/mini-meets.html 

Mar 20 (Sat), Olympia, WA 

Capitol City Lions 25th Annual All Scales Model Railroad Swap Meet. Thurston County Fair Grounds, 3054 Carpenter Road SE; 10:00 AM until 3:00 

PM. Adults $6.00, Senior Citizens & Students $4.00 and Age 12 & under free with paying Adult. Tables are $25.00, set up at 8:00AM Info:- Bill Zidel, 

ZidelRCSD@aol.com or 360-438-3503. 

Mar 21 (Sun), Pullman, WA 

14th Annual Palouse Empire Rail Society Train Show and Swap Meet, 9:30 am to 3:00 PM. SEL Event Center, 1825 Schweitzer Drive - Admission $3.00 

adults, 12 & under free. Info:- Tim Davidson, 509-332-4404, davisonrr@hotmail.com; Mike Kauffman, 208-882-3796, mkauffma@verizon.net, or Lanch 

Gallagher, 509-432-1875, lwg104@yahoo.com. Website: Palouse-empire-rs.webs.com 

Mar 27 (Sat), Olympia, WA 

Seventh Annual Olympia Layout Tour hosted by the Olympia Open House & Operations Group (OO&OG). 10:30-5:00. Ten layouts have committed 

to be on the tour, with a possibility of two more. Various scale and gauge combinations will be represented, including N, HO, On30 and 3/8n20. Info:- 

Scott Buckley, sbuckley@nwrain.com or 360-352-5567 

Mar 27-28, Moose Jaw, SK 

Model Train Show. Western Development Museum 50 Diefenbaker Drive Moose Jaw. The museum is opened from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info:- 

www.tcmrc.org 

Apr 2-4, Salmon Arm, BC 

Shuswap Rails 2010 - 7th Division Spring Meet, The Prestige Harbourfront Resort & Convention Centre, 251 Harborfront Drive NE Info:- 

www.salmonarmmodelrailway.com 

Apr 10-11, Eugene, OR 

22nd Annual Willamette Cascade Model Railroad Club Train Show & Swap Meet, Lane County Fairgrounds, 796 W. 13th Avenue. Hours: Saturday 10 

a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Admission: Early Bird Special (Saturday only 9:00 a.m.) $10 per person. Adults: $6.00 per adult, children 10 

years and younger free if accompanied by an adult. Optional vendor set up on Friday, April 9th 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. This is one of the largest train shows 

and swap meets in the Pacific Northwest as we fill up 22,000 square feet with over 200 vendor tables with vendors from 9 different states, operating train 

layouts in a variety of scales, speeder display, historical society displays with literature, Operation Lifesaver trailer with educational literature, and hourly 

door prizes for the public. Info:- Lee Temple at 541-954-4917 or ttandt@ram-mail.com or Diane Temple at 541-225-7394 or LDTemple@rammail.com. 

Apr 11 (Sun), Nanaimo, BC 

26th Annual Mid Vancouver Island Spring Model Railroad Show, Beban Park Rec. Center 2300 Bowen Road, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Operating Layouts, 

Swap & Shop Tables, Retail Sales Model Contests (Popular Vote) Admission (cash only), $3.00 NMRA member, $5.00 non member, $10.00 family, $4.00 

seniors, Child (6-12) - $ 1.00. Info:- Ken Rutherford kj.rutherford@shaw.ca, (250) 724-4698 or Rick Lord (250) 724-4205 

Apr 17-18, Calgary, AB 

SUPERTRAIN 2010 Canada's Biggest and Best Annual Model Train Show. 9 AM til 5 PM both days. Subway Soccer Centre, 7000 - 48 Street SE. Calgary 

FREE PARKING Adult - $10, Youth (6-12) - $5, under 6 - free Over 60,000 sq. ft. of operating layouts, displays, railroad art, hobby shops, model 

manufacturers, demonstrations, clinics, Lego and Thomas Play Area, garden railways, ride-on trains, and much more. Info:- www.supertrain.ca or 

info@supertrain.ca 

Apr 25 (Sun), Helena, MT 

30th Annual Helena Railroad Fair, Civic Center, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, $3 under 12 free. Info: - Helena Railroad Fair, P.O. Box 4914, Helena, MT 59604- 

4914, 406-443-1578 or 406-227-0158 or email: rrfair@mt.net 

May 1-2, Rickreall, OR 

Rickreall Grange Train Swap Meet & Show 10AM-4PM Admission $5.00 good for both days. $1 off with canned food. 280 Main Str. "HWY 99W". 

Operating P.S.R. Club layout in 30 x 30 Room see at www.trainweb.org/psr Info:- Pry626@juno.com or 503-606-0398


National Model Railroad Association 

4th Division, Pacific Northwest Region 

P. O. Box 5072 

Kent, WA 98064 

Join the NMRA at 

NMRA.org 

The Masthead 

The Grab-Iron is the official publication of the Fourth Division 

of the Pacific Northwest Region of the National 

Model Railroad Association. It is published ten times per 

year, September through June. Electronic delivery is free to 

all members in good standing. To be notified when new 

issues are released, join our mail list; send a blank email to 

4dPNR-subscribe@YahooGroups.com. Regular mail subscriptions 

are $10.00 per year; to subscribe, mail a check for 

$10.00 to Sherman Stevens, 12217 NE 143rd Place, Kirkland, 

WA 98034. Correspondence and contributions are 

solicited; photographs and illustrations are encouraged. The 

Grab-Iron does not pay for articles. The editor reserves the 

right to accept, reject, and edit contributions as space and 

time dictates. Send submissions to the Editor’s email address 

(shown to the right). Commercial advertising is gladly accepted; 

our current rates are below. Non-commercial classified 

advertising from 4D members is free of charge; submit 

via email to the editor. Letters to the editor and other editorial 

opinions do not necessarily reflect opinions and policy 

of the 4D. A complete staff listing with contact information 

is available at 4dPNR.org. Our mailing address is “4th Division, 

PNR, P. O. Box 5072, Kent, WA 98064.” To join us, 

go to NMRA.org and click “Join/Renew.” 

Advertising Rates 

1/8 page ad, $12 per issue, $103 annual 



Full page ad, $48 per issue, $375 annual 

Contact Mike Slease (information, above right) 

Grab-Iron 

Publisher: Al Lowe, 425-443-6896, 4dpnr@allowe.com 

Editor: Cliff Green, 206-363-9852, cliffg@codewrangler.net 

Advertising & Circulation: Mike Slease, 253-912-0353, mikepce@comcast.net 

Photographer: Doug Bulger, 206-290-4095, doug@bulger.org 

Fourth Division 

Superintendent: Dennis Hill, 360-895-3332, PNR4dSuper@yahoo.com 

Assistant Superintendent: Jim Byerley, 360-692-7106, jmbtrains@comcast.net 

Secretary: Jeannie Melvin, 425-257-0342, drbear@blarg.net 

Membership: Bill Hupe, 360-373-3730, whopay@tscnet.com 

Achievement Program: C. J. Riley, 206-780-8541, cjriley42@yahoo.com 

Treasurer: Sherman Stevens, 425-821-2890, shermanlss@earthlink.net 

Director: JJ Johnston, 425-643-1000, jj@jtwice.com 

Director: Stu Rogers, 206-390-1453, sturogers@comcast.net 

Director: Al Lowe, 425-643-6300, 4dpnr@allowe.com 

Pacific Northwest Region 

President: Jack Hamilton, 360-308-9845, gradiver@wavecable.com 

Vice-President: Walt Huston, 253-535-2043, WaltHuston@earthlink.net 

Secretary: Jeannie Melvin, 425-257-0342, DrBear@blarg.net 

Treasurer: Dirk Kruysman, 541-673-6341, dirk@cmspan.net 

Submitting Articles and Pictures 

Grab-Iron readers are encouraged to submit articles and pictures in several 

categories: Club and Layout News, Real Life Stories, Modeling Techniques and 

Photo Journal. Photographs and illustrations are accepted in all common digital 

formats. Email materials to the Editor at the address above before the 15th of 

the month before publication, i.e., August 15th for the September issue.

February 2010 - the 4th Division â¢ PNR â¢ NMRA

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