Local NMRA Clubs & Divisions
This is a Bi-weekly Segment which started April 27, 2022. It is based on one of the ways I got, and many others, modeling help and met some really outstanding modelers. I have been honored to have served on two NMRA Regional BOD and as Superintendent for one NMRA Division, AP chairman for three Regions, and Contest Chairman for two Regions.
I believe at its core, mentoring is best done one on one at a local level with a talented model builder, who can guide a person in learning the skills, techniques, and gain confidence in their modeling efforts. These are some of the greatest memories I have.
A mentor does not have to be an MMR or a famous model railroader, he or she just needs to be able to build models you admire or have some skills you want to learn. Ultimately, a mentor wants to help you improve your modeling. Those were the people and friends who helped me become a modeler..
Since most of my “New Tracks” efforts are focused on mentoring, I have been trying to figure out how to communicate with you, the “New Tracks” audience, the value of seeking local mentoring and how to find it.
This new segment is based on my personal experiences and is my answer to how you can find a local mentor and meet some great people in the process. Join us in this Special Segment of our Show.
Phil Edholm
I have asked Phil Edholm a NMRA Division Superintendent of the NMRA PCR/Coast Division, which includes the San Fransisco Bay Area down to Monterey in California, to lead this segment. We kicked off the series with Gordon Robinson, the President of the NMRA, who discussed the value of NMRA Clubs and divisions to improving the modeling abilities of their members.
We will be inviting NMRA Divisions and clubs from all over the world to talk about what activities and mentoring opportunities they offer. If you hear something that sounds good see if your local club or division offers it as well. If they do take advantage of it!
Phil Edholm has a discussion with Henry Primas of the Piedmont Division, South East Region where they talk about start up after the shutdown. They start off with a bang with a layout open house with 43 home layouts and more – October 12, 2022
Fred Soward, MMR talks about his experience in Division 8 of the NMRA. Fred shares his goals as the leader and his efforts to encourage members to be active in their hobby endeavors. He talks about how he dealt with Covid and how they went online to promote and keep modelers – September 14, 2022
Phil Edholm has a discussion with Perry Lamb, Superintendent of the Piedmont Division of the Southeast Region of the NMRA. Perry is the coordinator of the Division’s “Training Camp” program, a hands-on teaching course. Phil and Perry discuss the how of making the local NMRA experience better and how to get local modelers to serve as mentors to less experienced modelers. – August 31, 2022
Charles Goodrich, MMR, of NMRA Division 3 which covers the Texas and Louisiana areas talks about what they are doing to further the goals of the NMRA and help their fellow model railroads enjoy the hobby – August 17, 2022
Discussion with Philip Taylor Superintendent of the James River Division and how he involves the members and keeps them engaged in model railroading – August 3, 2022
Phil and Jim Kellow, MMR talk about Jim,s experience and involvement with the NMRA – July 20, 2022
Martin Breckbiel, MMR talks with Phil about his modeling escapades and Marin’s impact and involvement with the NMRA – July 6. 2022
Phil and Earl Girbovan, MMR monitor of the NMRA AP program discuss Earl’s journey to MMR – June 22, 2022
Phil has an open discussion with the Zoom attendees and discuss their favorite activities at model railroad conventions – June 8, 2022
Phil chats with Robert Feuerstein about workshops and having a home away from home as a member of the NMRA – May 25, 2022
Clark Kooning talks about his role in the NMRA in Canada and his role with “Modeling with the Masters” – May 11, 2022