Clinics (Learn Stuff)

We are still working to finalize the list of clinics that will be presented at Island Rails 2009.  The following is a preliminary list and description of each clinic to be presented.  We hope to have eight clinics in all.

Thank you to all who have offered to host a clinic.

Model Rail “Rail”
Host: Ric Hamilton

HO scale track comparisons of quality, appearance and wheel flanges. Code 100 to code 55 (maybe 40 if get brave enough to hand-lay). Basically, I’m still trying to figure out how to display it as I am going to paint a ballast a portion to show you can tell the difference in Code 100 vs 83 after it is painted.

Using Bragdon Weathering Powders
Host: Ross Young

This clinic was a hit at last year’s Convention and it has been brought back again this year.  Unlike last year, this clinic will be open to anyone wishing to attend, however Ross will have a limited supply of weathering powders and tools. The number of attendees to receive these supplies will be determined later.  There will be a sign-up sheet at the registration desk.

This will be a hands-on clinic and participants are requested to bring an item they would like to weather and will be able to keep the poweder(s) and tools used during the clinic.

Getting from Here to There – Car Forwarding Systems
Host: Doug Whitman

As we begin to think about operations on our model railroad one of the first items to be addressed is which of the variety of car forwarding methods should we use.

In this clinic we will discuss many of the different methods that can be used to plan the movement of freight on our model railroads.  The advantages, disadvantages, and the requirements of each method will also be open for discussion.

Setting up Operations Using Car Cards
Host: Steve McMullin

As a follow-up to Doug’s presentation, Steve will concentrate on setting up model railroad operations using car cards.

Using Fast-Track Jigs
Host: Ron Day

Ron Day has offered to host a clinic on using these jigs to save money on turnouts by building your own.  Ron’s had his jig(s) for quite some time and has built several turnouts.  He enjoys this part of the process of building his layout and is willing to share the process with others.

The Care & Feeding of HO Scale Locomotives
Host: Will Lawrence

Will Lawrence goes over the high (and low) points of what’s under the hood of various HO scale diesels, and how to identify and correct some of the more common problems. He’ll also give tips for general maintenance to keep ‘em rolling for the long haul.

Creating Water – One Man’s Way
Host: Justin Maguire

Justin will be here with Andy Small and the layout from Rhode Island.  He has offered to present this clinic on modeling water scenes using creative techniques he’s developed. Justin’s specialty is water related scenic effects. Sand dunes, bays, harbors, bridges and low trestles dominate his railroads. His award winning work has been demonstrated in clinics at several regional NMRA conventions.

From Basic Kit to Great Structure
Host: Ronald Grandmaison

This clinic will focus on kit-bashing great structures.  We will talk about all aspects of kit assembly including airbrushing and weathering.  The starting point for this clinic will be kit-bashed structures on the Chaleur & Restigouche.  The clinic will also demonstrate the setting of structures on a foundation to allow for removal without damaging details.  We will also discuss the proper placement of structures so they don’t overwhelm the layout. Emphasis on choosing the right basic colors so things look correct when weathered.  The presentation will also feature photos of scratchbuilt structures from Maritime layouts as well as a few from Quebec.

Participants who have kit-bashed structures that would like to bring them for discussion are more than welcome!

CNR Vans – Prototype Details
Host: James Whatley

This clinic covers several variants of the generic CNR wood caboose (van) and includes numerous in-service prototype photos from the 1970s and 1980s, several of which were taken in Moncton.  The detailed exterior and interior construction of the CNR van, including those built from former boxcars, is discussed with photos and drawings.  A few steel vans are also included.  This clinic will be of interest to anyone with a general interest in the subject and especially those wishing to learn more about the prototype for the True Line Trains model.