Harry Huckemeyer
The Short Line Model Railroad Club has been wrapping up plans for getting off to a fast start this fall. We’re just finishing up a scheduled two-day event up north in late September, in the Mesa area, and getting ready for one of the most popular annual events in the area in early October. If you’re a train buff, you may want to put aside some time for the annual Railfair, hosted by the City of Scottsdale, on Oct. 5 and 6 at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park.
This is an annual special event where several of the area model train clubs participate with operational displays and much more that the scenic grounds have to offer. If you’re visiting or somewhat new to the area, this is a popular park located in Scottsdale, which has a little more than 30 acres of property that will fill your day with fun just walking around the grounds and checking out all that the park has to offer. It’s all free, with the exception of a small fee to ride the classic carousel on the property, as well as a scenic railroad road that will take you on a tour of the total park grounds that’s there for the enjoyment of both the young and old. The hours on both days for this event will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. From Sun Lakes, it’s a rather easy trip. Take the 101 north to the Indian Bend Exit and stay on Indian Bend Road until the entrance to the park, which is just before reaching Scottsdale Road, with a turn-in on the left.
Locally here in the Sun Lakes area, things really come to life in October with the returning snowbirds and the inviting weather that attracts many visitors. Add to that all the family get-togethers as the holiday season rapidly approaches at the end of the year. The local newspapers have an abundance of information on all the major attractions that are frequented in all the different communities. Additionally, in general, the October/November time frame becomes a fine time to move around to meet up with old friends, neighbors, and new friends. The Community Days during these times are a great source to take advantage of what goes on in the area and how you can get involved if you have the desire. Check your papers for all the dates.
As a club, we are always interested in adding members, and we feel that we have a lot to offer to those looking for something that has a bit of a challenge. We meet on the second Saturday of the month at Oakwood Country Club, at 1 p.m., barring event conflicts, at one of the rooms in the Arts & Crafts location. When possible, following our meetings, we have workshops and training sessions.
For more information, feel free to call me at 480-600-1349 or send a text with your phone number and “trains,” and I will be happy to get back to you ASAP.