More This and That!

Mike Evans D&H layout feature.

Here in Canada getting copies of railway magazines is getting hard with tariffs and the exchange of the dollar. Hobby shops, book stores, drugstores and grocery stores are dropping these magazines. I can see why with the changed approach MR is taking with returns. The last two hobby shops that I have been in don't carry MR anymore and RMC prices are now at least 15.95 which includes all the new costs the shops are facing through tariffs and exchange rates.  

I had been looking for a copy of Model Railroad Planning since the beginning of the year. I was lucky to track one down just recently. This time around the issue was very interesting to me with two out east layouts included. One nicely done by Peter Leach of his Maine two-footer in an extra room and another which is Mike Evans D&H layout told by Randy Laframboise. Great work and articles guys.

I was at Otter Valley Railroad last week and was surprised at the large supply of Martin Welberg scenic products. I had heard it was coming but I think Lorne cleaned them out. They still had more to put out but the photos show you it is varied and in large supply. There are a few products I had not seen before such as their trees. I used to get my Welberg goodies at the Scenic Express booth when at the Springfield train show. Not anymore...I did stock up on a few new to me products...George Dutka

Otter Valley Railroad shelves. 

The local power at Altershot during a visit on July 11, 2025. Note some of the details one can add to the end jammed into the grab irons.  We see a MU cable and corn broom riding this end.

Beginning to see more sets of this power in our area. This is VIA 84 from Sarnia to Toronto on June 6, 2025 at Pulham Rd east of Komoka, Ont. I was on my way to the lake that day and the timing was right. I cross both the CN and CP lines on my way there and back so always good to have my camera with me.

I caught CV 555 with CV 5809 leading as it approached the station around a broad curve in Stafford Springs, Ct. on Sept 28, 1992. That was a long time ago. This September the CVRHS is gathering in Stafford for their annual convention. Maybe I just might go.

My newest purchase a Rapido offering just out of the box. Runs and sounds great. Now to give it a bit of weathering. These engines would have been seen on the CV on occasion being used on through freights.