tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47990474055726215912024-03-13T15:34:02.889+08:00Rosenberg Meet in N-ScaleA Malaysian rendition of the Union Pacific and Burlington Northern Santa Fe meet at Tower 17 junction in present-day Rosenberg, Texas in N-scale (1:160). Join me as we follow the freight trains crossing the BNSF Galveston and UP Glidden subdivisions to Galveston Bay.mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-39650030709658107472011-10-29T18:25:00.001+08:002011-11-07T00:12:17.135+08:00Rosenberg Meet Officially Retired<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaBA5o3_e7asSbnw1sttZ0I3FBwRs67XRfFnqdrh26AwBEu4eeWRDz1_vuVkcXr5FVCGm_g2o_Luc7C63hqP-b0jXEC-Ue9o4MPHV3Qg9pIzXZBgR4Na4cJC1vdyQFuDUSeU6st9sDA8/s1600/retired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaBA5o3_e7asSbnw1sttZ0I3FBwRs67XRfFnqdrh26AwBEu4eeWRDz1_vuVkcXr5FVCGm_g2o_Luc7C63hqP-b0jXEC-Ue9o4MPHV3Qg9pIzXZBgR4Na4cJC1vdyQFuDUSeU6st9sDA8/s1600/retired.jpg" /></a></div>I took me awhile to decide if I should continue with Rosenberg Meet. After all, I spent almost 1 year researching about UP and BNSF in that region and getting to know wonderful and helpful people. I learned more about the American railroad and about Rosenberg through this exercise. So with a heavy heart, I decided to retire Rosenberg Meet in N-scale.<br />
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I will still model railroad in N-scale, a scale of my choice. However, I have chosen to focus on German/European railways now that I am closer to the scene (besides working in a railway company). I might pick out some elements from Rosenberg Meet for my future layout and don't be surprised to see American locos and rolling stocks running side by side with its German and European counterparts. After all, I have over 30 pieces of equipment that need a place to run.<br />
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If you are interested to model Rosenberg, please feel free to use my research materials here. I have some CAD track drawings (XTrack CAD format) and photos. Just email me and I will be more than happy to pass them to you.<br />
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I don't plan to delete this blog (unless Google does it without informing me). For future posting on my N-scale railroad, visit mytrainmaster.wordpress.com and germaN160.wordpress.com<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA91DCyKXGHj_scmwCwzt5fRC3lPpCyWwYYeLpXlNpdWAMKmppR06JhtEGsrWaVoT-GnK3e7SGn2C6dK4107sCMvY0BzRw7vyvYc0dMI1e4u0z-sBkB8oPc7rXOOwFbIS-r4pOgUNL2LM/s1600/germaN160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA91DCyKXGHj_scmwCwzt5fRC3lPpCyWwYYeLpXlNpdWAMKmppR06JhtEGsrWaVoT-GnK3e7SGn2C6dK4107sCMvY0BzRw7vyvYc0dMI1e4u0z-sBkB8oPc7rXOOwFbIS-r4pOgUNL2LM/s320/germaN160.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Thank you for your support and visit.<br />
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Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-1269388005929202002011-08-20T05:34:00.002+08:002011-08-22T06:37:18.962+08:00Trai-N-Master now in a Train Company<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsg00nSyEtW4EYry9Ayx9YwQhr0XMJ2FWz7bRNewg5W0dbz1l_fTpFPNJxDRvcmDRYFjKYYK3gLZcpgZL-wzshpOoo2fXGAnrHnKFxdHx_7U5VuW89dJRwragA-qbp9wOT_SbEk0JwcF0/s1600/Frankfurt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsg00nSyEtW4EYry9Ayx9YwQhr0XMJ2FWz7bRNewg5W0dbz1l_fTpFPNJxDRvcmDRYFjKYYK3gLZcpgZL-wzshpOoo2fXGAnrHnKFxdHx_7U5VuW89dJRwragA-qbp9wOT_SbEk0JwcF0/s400/Frankfurt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
It has been almost 2 years since my last post. I am still going well, thank you. I have moved to Frankfurt (in Germany) after spending 1 year in Berlin for my MBA. I am now working in Deutsche Bahn (DB), yes, a dream came true. I shall write more about my work later. But, just to let everyone know that I <b>might</b> revive Rosenberg Meet in N-scale. Thankfully, most of my planning notes were posted here and with your comments, I can now pick up from where I left off.<br />
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Okay, I said "might" since I would need to settle down in my new apartment in the next 2 months and would definitely take a few more months to let everything fall in place. I will not have a big place like I had in Kuala Lumpur. I don't have a 11' x 11' room to space. Nonetheless, I think I have a beautiful, enclosed balcony or loggia as they call it here, with plenty of natural light.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA1qGZXYL9hKIC9wRxtbCu_0Y8s4DPKteVfPOf6azIHeeHuDnVdgXHRjpx6vnaPDDqQDfOxaHHlbX0TosxnNUySmIyiDiW_Nd01NnufWOV93nm6DAT7kQ8m12vTIP0C6p-QsEM5Eh6KE/s1600/IMAG0564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA1qGZXYL9hKIC9wRxtbCu_0Y8s4DPKteVfPOf6azIHeeHuDnVdgXHRjpx6vnaPDDqQDfOxaHHlbX0TosxnNUySmIyiDiW_Nd01NnufWOV93nm6DAT7kQ8m12vTIP0C6p-QsEM5Eh6KE/s400/IMAG0564.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">View from living room</span> </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqi-tl2nymF6Dbow1g8GiHeP_QSIFgScb5-Tbsnc8F3ntsWcpRM2hCa-fx9f_Vm2aS22BFhJHWxZR6aY10Ql1-77O8i43EqfNJf9GfMPdA1IVdD_gSDXE02t-m-UVvFhhbRfljsuWjaQ/s1600/IMAG0566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqi-tl2nymF6Dbow1g8GiHeP_QSIFgScb5-Tbsnc8F3ntsWcpRM2hCa-fx9f_Vm2aS22BFhJHWxZR6aY10Ql1-77O8i43EqfNJf9GfMPdA1IVdD_gSDXE02t-m-UVvFhhbRfljsuWjaQ/s400/IMAG0566.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">View of balcony (one end) </span></div><br />
I intend to use this space as a work space but to have the model layout circling the parameters of the balcony and a duck-under for crossing the access to the living room. Rosenberg Tower 17 will still be the main theme of this layout but would now mean that I have to rethink how the Galveston and Glidden subdivisions fit into this narrow space. Could I compress all those important features between Rosenberg to Galveston island within this space?<br />
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It is time to review my planning notes and your comments. Watch out this space for updates.<br />
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Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-1027314929816826752009-11-21T15:22:00.003+08:002009-11-21T15:29:59.453+08:00Rosenberg Meet Takes A Break ....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxh2If7uTDmuLd1g7_-aY8o6dHWDrBc4QQAU7hyphenhyphen00NGnvg9e-ZHKP8yLvSWbeT19bCbyUe6rLHcVWN51O_rqEmZskhNo3ZA3-rqWW5K6Qo9p_OTAtw_elOnEJDs0uJBII3axNRMYDfwPQ/s1600/Berlin_tor.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406455144747305106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 296px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxh2If7uTDmuLd1g7_-aY8o6dHWDrBc4QQAU7hyphenhyphen00NGnvg9e-ZHKP8yLvSWbeT19bCbyUe6rLHcVWN51O_rqEmZskhNo3ZA3-rqWW5K6Qo9p_OTAtw_elOnEJDs0uJBII3axNRMYDfwPQ/s400/Berlin_tor.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Rosenberg Meet will now take a break. I will be in Berlin for whole of 2010 for my MBA at European School of Management and Technology.<br /><br />Thank you for supporting Rosenberg Meet. Don't leave yet. I hope to return to this project in the future.<br /><br /><br />Thank you.<br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-72411090480406304442009-04-30T17:19:00.007+08:002009-05-07T00:40:04.995+08:00When Income Tax is Worse than Death!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BniC21cJmyDK3o8WxElGJYYXnGusxAfqo7jjDZQ-rBHRC5IirF1E-Fjv-rZIuEMQQZLjFQfkcLZaCoV4jiKdYEIE5IMgTzOXm9Y1s23sOl3l8Yd-fwvZFeiAxqizfxGeNOpsT78-RS8/s1600-h/income-tax-tom.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330412333979456658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 332px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BniC21cJmyDK3o8WxElGJYYXnGusxAfqo7jjDZQ-rBHRC5IirF1E-Fjv-rZIuEMQQZLjFQfkcLZaCoV4jiKdYEIE5IMgTzOXm9Y1s23sOl3l8Yd-fwvZFeiAxqizfxGeNOpsT78-RS8/s400/income-tax-tom.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Done. Submitted. Paid.</div><br /><p>When your income tax is worth an MPV, it is time to survive on water and bread. Rosenberg Meet will have to take a back seat for next 3 months. But, this means more time to revise the benchwork that I am struggling on and to work on the Galveston lower deck track plan.</p><br /><p>Be assured, Rosenberg Meet is very much alive! No tax is going to take my little Rosie away :D</p><br /><br><br /><br>Jimmymytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-83174328577093134142009-04-19T16:40:00.004+08:002009-04-20T13:31:56.992+08:00Thank You For Your VisitSince 5th April, more than 140 visitors (including repeat visitors) have visited Rosenberg Meet in N-scale; as far north as Troms, Norway (Takk!) and as far south as Dunedin, New Zealand (Thank You!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMpafQzv85Wk8m-BYZXy07HRNHLt3sF-4B0ehukgwvvsIY8CWGgGuzxzwVQToSjXAIompHQ1ahUROhnFHJ33W-dYzIu6ftSG_Oi9DaAr6Iq18lqTxFFAgE2fQP9hs4myT1vs8AFqyi-A/s1600-h/rosenbergvisitors1.PNG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326319968535680178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 253px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMpafQzv85Wk8m-BYZXy07HRNHLt3sF-4B0ehukgwvvsIY8CWGgGuzxzwVQToSjXAIompHQ1ahUROhnFHJ33W-dYzIu6ftSG_Oi9DaAr6Iq18lqTxFFAgE2fQP9hs4myT1vs8AFqyi-A/s400/rosenbergvisitors1.PNG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />As you learn more about my Rosenberg Meet, do visit <a href="http://www.ci.rosenberg.tx.us/">The City that Works</a>. After all, each modeller is an ambassador of the place and country he/she models :)<br /><br /><br />Jimmymytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-80779270757637085402009-04-19T15:30:00.011+08:002009-04-20T13:40:12.407+08:00Going Beyond Oval<div align="left">It's good to be back after a short hiatus. I have delivered my second company project on time last mid-week and now it is time for me do deliver my own railroad project.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="left">I was "discovered" last week by a few colleagues who googled my name and found my personal blogs, including this one. They saw me and we started talking about model trains (for me, passionately). Big boys playing with trains. Betcha! And, it is not just connecting a few pieces of tracks into an oval shape and let the train chase its tail. No, no .... model railroad is a SERIOUS business (and it is not TOY!)</div><br /><div align="left">Now, let's not get to uptight about this. My upper deck track plan is finalised, a month ago. However, something is still bothering me. Smither's Lake peninsula!</div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326304758033510770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GdofdeoBZLRabe0Oc4Z6Jqlo71xJplWdPkc7yDcDYrOuW2cHQzpEp-Cr0GZl9sl9z1dK8VFuXsQDvFGKx1b6znvj8IT0yzVr22fkvRsTWqpLQ0zuj6IMAy5rP3_FkSVbJHIOVy-i__U/s400/190420091603.jpg" border="0" /></div><p align="center"><strong>Smither's Lake Peninsula (upper deck)</strong></p><br /><p align="left">The peninsula extends 5.5 feet from the wall and 3 feet wide at the widest point. Below Smither's Lake is future Galveston Bay and Galveston terminal. I have not draw the track plan for the lower deck but what will be there is all noted in my Ideas Book.</p><p align="left">One of my druthers is to make sure the lower deck peninsula is free from any obstruction. As you can see, the upper deck has a scenic divider between Richmond and Alvin but the lower deck must have an unobstructed view of the Galveston port terminal and the bay.</p><p align="left">For now, the lower deck needs to be supported by this benchwork.</p><p align="left"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326308501047920162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkZncaf_DBiEFRUNi1lIbKGqVv-Elwh2N9SvmpBtK6ZdJ3ljIxHGz-VlSyaop6BF42lMg7RDf08LMf_5l4YQ0LWyAIvek9Wg3uCDsmVzFxKn3lDBGYk6wsfYvB2OWdvsLXWRmBuxlAkk/s400/190420091604.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p align="center"><strong>Lower Deck L-Girder Benchwork (Plan View)</strong></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326309098449570898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGscmAIgDOIHiOKGw_rbjXb9B17JIMFDPFGUyV5EMN9hbf8cKPz0_fy6UheBCZwgp_k8Ku9x4_Q-8ZCuN8uEGGnGfOf9zfGBcLM0-v081jEHe5SEvv9XCG956JD4Fq4t9udqCfVGRkbo/s400/190420091605.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p align="center"><strong>Smither's Lake (Upper Deck) and<br />Galveston Bay (Lower Deck) (Front View)</strong></p><br /><p align="left">My challange now is to find a way to make the lower deck obstruction-free. One method I thought of is to use acrylic panels to support each corners (as shown in red) and which, I hope, are strong to support the weight of the entire upper deck.</p><p align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Update #1:<br /></strong></span><span style="color:#000000;">This is what a good sleep can do for you. This is how I want my upper deck (Smither's Lake) to be "free-hanging" and supported, while the bottom deck (Galveston) is supported by the middle legs.</span></p><p align="left">Compare this and the above drawing. This below drawing meets my free-space that I want for Galveston and the lower deck is not hindered by the benchwork legs.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326642387549104770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwMzSYeVz-hldFcRnjcfi6rIjtHFqnYw_QOuQ_zSPSyQkrv6inl7sAjQAqB4A9yTfl9JSDSRHy56-EoVRctRYVZD3R0v3-8yfy3CokhV_-XwVErkeEGsg_CLrIw0TARNF_IFoCFW8lHrI/s400/200420091624.jpg" border="0" /></p><p align="left"></p><p align="left"> </p><p align="left">Do you have any suggestions or comments?</p><br /><p align="left">Back to drawing board! </p><br /><p align="left"></p><br /><p align="left"></p><br /><p align="left">Jimmy Low</p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-46358852585190656962009-04-03T11:52:00.007+08:002009-04-19T16:50:53.680+08:00Rosenberg Meet at Night TimeSteve Cox's recent post on <a href="http://coxy.squarespace.com/coxys-n-scale-and-railroad-bl/2009/4/2/2nd-street-job.html">2nd Street job</a> on Richmond Pacific and his subsequent modeler's note raised an interesting question about simulating the after dark look. Good point, Steve.<br /><br />How many of us modelers considered this point in our layout?<br /><br />We simulate winter, summer, fall and spring days but how often we simulate the dawn or dusk feeling or even night feeling? A food for thought for my Rosie :)<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320310068400526546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 257px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1qkX4k-aiFiisyUce57boBfPXdJ79tx4Cvw-b3eC-xnxqxy85xrFfwKTmFevQ4Ca8Lk7aWSMG_vTcCadVPv8Sk2AYw7fGI5c__yQFp4bqUkze2CkierPBn-TbiOyJ6L-KbuPuio1eeI/s400/wsc-rosenbergdusk.jpg" border="0" /><strong>Wes Carr beautifully captured Tower 17 at a winter dawn<br />looking west. Can Jimmy capture this feeling in N-scale?</strong><br /></div><br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-32352545367438377342009-04-02T00:38:00.004+08:002009-04-02T00:47:21.615+08:00Texas' Last Interlocking Tower ClosingROSENBERG, Texas - Effective at 8 a.m. today, Texas begins to lose Tower 17, its last active interlocking tower guarding a railroad junction. All Texas towers were numbered, and the one at Rosenburg, 35 miles southwest of Houston where Union Pacific's former Southern Pacific Sunset Route main line crosses BNSF's former Santa Fe line from the north into the Houston-Galveston area, happened to be 17.<br /><br />Tower 17's closure is said to leave UP's West Bridge Junction in Louisiana, near the Huey P. Long bridge, as the last staffed traditional tower in service (vs. towers at moveable rail bridges at waterways) in the U.S. west of the Mississippi River.<br /><br />A 36-hour maintenance-of-way window is in effect today for UP signal forces to change out switches, switch machines, and cut over new signals and take down old ones at Tower 17. The UP Glidden Sub dispatcher now controls the remaining switches and signals. Rosenburg operators are expected to find work at other UP locations.<br /><br />The last day that Tower 17 will be open will be Friday, Feb. 13, with the last operator reporting for work at 11 p.m. When that shift is over at 7 a.m. Saturday morning, the tower will be closed.<br /><br />Texas' towers were given numbers, at random, by the Railroad Commission of Texas after the 1901 passage of a state law to regulate crossings at grade of railroads. The numeric progression of Texas interlockings has no logic either geographically or by railroad. It is believed that Tower 196, in El Paso near Union Station, had the highest number. As late as early 1985 there were still well over 100 active interlockings in Texas, but only a couple of dozen or so were controlled by active towers.<br /><br /><br />Information provided by Trains Magazinemytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-754435868758179212009-03-30T02:36:00.004+08:002009-04-01T15:35:29.785+08:00Running Rosenberg Meet with Friends: PRICELESS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv17ZQLcWvgkXLTR7pdOgw9OgAneHR9jaMB3_hQo5p3ltxz3Y0BGVj_BhXfR2roe_4p3leR5DYvlIJTCaC0qS94Wt-ixdgP4q3O3EXIwLIO27PYXmweSR5-Fl88axsy8_efGxQKHzRZWM/s1600-h/mastercard-large.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318682047585238434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv17ZQLcWvgkXLTR7pdOgw9OgAneHR9jaMB3_hQo5p3ltxz3Y0BGVj_BhXfR2roe_4p3leR5DYvlIJTCaC0qS94Wt-ixdgP4q3O3EXIwLIO27PYXmweSR5-Fl88axsy8_efGxQKHzRZWM/s400/mastercard-large.gif" border="0" /></a><br />As I was preparing the bill of materials and budget for my layout, I recall this famous Mastercard Priceless ads. So, I just going to remind myself:<br /><br />Atlas Flextrack: US$2.89<br />Kato BNSF C44-9W: US$73.50<br />Running Rosenberg Meet with Friends: <strong>PRICELESS</strong><br /><br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-31936447596571284902009-03-30T01:25:00.004+08:002009-03-30T02:24:12.880+08:00Deciphering Train Symbols - More Than Just SymbolsLast week, I got connected with 2 important people that spurred my interest to model Tower 17 in Rosenberg, Texas. Yes, Stephen Foyt and Wes Carr are now in my Facebook. I also found out that both are with UPRR and BNSF respectively as train dispatcher. Wow, what a discovery!<br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Train_dispatcher">Train dispatchers</a> are the air traffic controllers of the railroads. They control the movement of trains over large track territories.<br /><br />Train dispatchers assign train symbols to indicate the train type, origin and destination of train and other information. Different railroads uses different train symbols. Knowing each railroad's train symbols help to make the model railroad operations more prototypical. I reread Stephen's <a href="http://www.trainweb.org/jssand/Houston/Twr17.htm">24 hours at Tower 17, Rosenberg</a> report and trying to decipher all the 77 train symbols, both BNSF's and UPRR's.<br /><br />By looking at each train symbols, I can now tell the origin and destination of each train type. It also give me an idea where each train originates and what it carries with it, and where it is going - loaded trains normally to ports in Texas or other States such as those in Long Beach or Los Angeles, California or New Orleans, Louisiana for handover to /from CSX.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318674349940403602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 352px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFARV5zcFWOIUefiY-MIXlwBEhnf6rcvIEFMrDiRqRlKfv2GdIllRXckJZhCEs4ZJnlgF3x6hI44wYVLif6ovNfSJTsr_J9qfX9yJA5dYI__ybdcu_AYiiqQL_WrQt0-Nx436aGX7E-o/s400/bnsf-uprr-symbols.JPG" border="0" /><br />Coals come from Wyoming for Smither's Lake Power Plant traveling over BNSF Galveston to Thompsons.<br /><br />The train symbols also tell the type of commodity or product that BNSF and UPRR carry in this region. Grains and coals are BNSF main commodities while UP bends towards rocks (?) and intermodal between New Orleans and Los Angeles.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318676948316943202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 152px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBmvQKRW1L5O6X_fThpKxaP-tOzw_WaEOYuV-AOP_kZKOftiohQa0tnixRa3eQfuQrAEIOvB_5d_juKg8hVP4f-4PCIRy_TmFUFbber3BVr1r1_fvrenerzbyn-xbEEngoJN7eZ8_EOU/s400/bnsf-uprr-symbols2.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>So, you will see actual* BNSF and UPRR train symbols used on Rosenberg Meet.<br /><br /><br /><br />Jimmy<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">* I was told the BNSF train symbols have changed but since I am modelling 2004 period, train symbols in Stephen's report remained correct.</span></p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-87987800866594089072009-03-28T01:08:00.010+08:002009-03-28T18:17:37.207+08:00It's Now Official - Rosenberg Meet in N-scale<div align="left">It's now official. My layout is called Rosenberg Meet in N-scale or Rosenberg Meet in short. You can also call it "Rosie".</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318136751314373570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 231px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 168px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7dJhoeM6i9LyplsoJpIZuFWY6S5LN0C0Szvcfm4oYCwGGVKiVAIHRi_RMLrwAKmcSQCc0CmBxW0JEexYR5c6skv2DdRtGpCcIi8Le69qVx_4-1TRxZ4MxF1_ma2Zo0Imfx9SqEjMztE/s400/rosenberg.gif" border="0" /><strong>The Official Logo of the Rosenberg Meet Layout</strong> </div><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318136391781469314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 348px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy1BYi77PMGMJNaSwBIu-_O2gMk2J-NCHT4MCf3UbvSnv13KNqiN-f3Iwzgq2oBc5uq_YMCD6TEj6mMyFtacFzZKiGK6i-Rx4i2eItOxbsckUkZqSN2yVUTiX6UULONBHOThvO-D1AiaE/s400/rosenberg-upperdeck-ver4.GIF" border="0" /> </div><p align="center"><strong>The Final Upper Deck Layout Plan</strong><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318179894592448034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiBcMlAdrDDhnr7QJcumTUsRXtXY2QkcOvK-gevZyVXUmN6B8dvlCuW0K7dCRhIsADlWW1EdEsAtCydTwgE9O6kD4Og73wynFdIiLTxlcq-31LPL_39n_5vB1pnlOrpARo74nb_Y5Owc/s400/Rosenberg-Meet-Polo-Shirt.gif" border="0" /></p><p align="center"><strong>Rosenberg Meet white polo shirt </strong></p><p align="center"><strong> </p></strong><p align="left"></p><p align="left">As for the polo shirt, I will definitely make one for myself. If there are fans out there who are interested to get one, please email me.</p><p align="left"> </p><p align="left"></p><p align="left"></p><p>Jimmy Low<br /></p><p><span style="font-size:78%;">* The UP Shield and BNSF Circle and Cross Logos are trademark of Union Pacific Railroad and Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway respectively. Non-commercial use.</span></p><br /><p></p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-20054775544839202922009-03-22T00:32:00.009+08:002009-03-23T23:44:13.756+08:00We Are Ready ..... Next Step, Lumber SourcingBharani aka Mr Carpenter and Jason, his sidekick dropped in this afternoon. I showed them my layout and we examined every inch of my train room to get a feel of the place and where each module will be.<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315681284305451442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSUGfiFiDfrKspANLO9T73xvVPmL6xu0am0f2V9WlG6l3JeVr-cdpy8f0LUcP7Pxxi17mKQAv5Bzqp-U6GUcyxJ5F3rGaYyStXeMqBbDoRxEAmZ1Hcx89UPA81zn2rFTDBVYu2uijRgY/s400/210320091014.jpg" border="0" /></p><div align="center">Bharani taking notes while Jason looked on. In the middle,<br />my layout plan on ironing board and facing the right direction. </div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315681539736465410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfjNkhCH-go4DdGGEPyjvTaRPy5U9bCw7_ltA2c20IUMhgfVAYqRWb1jdBR2-9XRpMthK8VSJH75NE8v-Q65gQx1zWBqM-eXj7vrPwJZcC8WWlnHj_0A6XlyvDy0rxRZx2Bqu-rM3UaI/s400/210320091015.jpg" border="0" />Jason measuring the wall next to Algoa</p><br /><p align="center"></p>We later discussed each note from my Ideas Book and finalised the benchwork details. Okay, my to-do list is almost completed. Bharani will study my layout and determine the best way do make the benchwork, type of lumber to use as well as costing.<br /><br />In the meantime, I am working on the bill of materials and calculating the helices we need to build. I built a stacked helix calculator to assist me and Bharani build the two helices.<br /><br /><br /><p align="left"></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315684537251661650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_l9iMFD9SAUWLvd-f0zHukp_XtexWxuF6CMKG_DrHJi4oI73rsXXrTKiFQAqVqtC_MVtF7F7b3_jrDS2xwzma34Zb942JknsX5d0_qH_YzPLcIk03jlDJVZohS_ewPB5AN9BB8OcpDI/s400/220320091057.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">My Model Railroad Helix Calculator. </p><p align="left"><br />Punch in parameters in beige boxes and results displayed in white boxes. A handy Excel tool to speed up the calculations. It computes the rise and run of each level, total length of tracks needed, height of the stack to build, etc. Click <a href="http://www.savefile.com/projects/808751807">here</a> to download a copy.</p><p align="left">I am going to take a day off next month to source for the lumber in Ikea and nearby hardware stores. Bharani told me they have pine lumber which are sturdier and stronger than local ones. Plus they do not warp easily. Well, got to check them out.</p><p align="left"></p><p align="left"></p><p align="left"></p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">Jimmy Low</p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-46928235826700053082009-03-21T22:57:00.002+08:002009-03-21T23:17:04.017+08:00If You Think Google Map is Good, This is Even BetterI stumbled upon Live Search Maps and guess what I found.<br /><br /><a href="http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&FORM=LMLTCP&cp=nxt2d270g17r&style=o&lvl=2&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&scene=26974092&phx=0&phy=0&phscl=1&encType=1">http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&FORM=LMLTCP&cp=nxt2d270g17r&style=o&lvl=2&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&scene=26974092&phx=0&phy=0&phscl=1&encType=1</a><br /><br />An amazing crystal clear view of Tower 17 junction viewed from 45 degrees. Just like how you will view it from a layout.<br /><br />Beat that, Google!<br /><br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-27076705270626525362009-03-21T09:00:00.007+08:002009-03-27T18:54:11.049+08:00Headspinning Helix (Updated)<div>One challenge (in fact, 2 actually) I added to my layout is helix construction. I need one at each end of my layout to get to lower deck which is 14 inches from the upper deck. Now, firstly, this is my first layout and secondly, adding 2 helices (!), I got to be nuts.<br /><br /><div></div><div>Anyway, I got to. Else, I would need to run 100 inches of straight track just to get between levels. I don't have the space to do the distance run and it does not make sense.</div><br /><div>So, I learnt from other forumers how to calculate helix. Here's my calculation for Algoa single track helix. </div><div><br /> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315442937320197570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFd2V8eOxfzrVDkSw4m8cCAdRHoIFQzj-jXPKD4RImvqe42pN6nK6TgVpKWOi-0yyxbTZhpJFtOZWDJItXpjRcnJ7XPCLzs4evJhxYu6EZ9LeQJbwRzHFHp9eyLnH9cTdEE0g6jmq-s8/s400/210320091009.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p align="center">Algoa Helix Calculation (from my Ideas Book)</p><p align="center"></p><p align="center"></p><p><br />I am waiting for forumers to comment on the above calculations. But, in essence, I am considering 16 inches effective radius to helix edge (to support 15 inches radius to track center) and a 2.5% max grade (Updates: Calculation okayed. Need to mock the helix and test the traction power of loco(s) and no. of cars it(they) can pull.</p><br /><p></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317818957165641170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieT15X4HAUiLw1LwcQ0cE3W2P_xaBkCusOJ2uNKRMZEgPruNnrzCgSNnXZoyHREBcFYEuie6usmKy_beEHJhEGmHuOhLGt5hZFs9eJobU7AqIDv7iXoo4U-ZrQa9eZuC8TgFIldwSJEkA/s400/single-track-2.5pcn-GOS.bmp" border="0" /><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><br /><p> </p><p>Jimmy Low</p><br /><p>P/S: The Ideas Book is a great idea. I have jotted many notes there and handy to carry around. Do you have yours today?</p></div>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-84291410039622307562009-03-20T13:42:00.010+08:002009-04-01T15:37:07.168+08:00A Good Idea to Have an Ideas BookI do so much thinking these days about Rosenberg Meet that I decided to have an Ideas Book. A place to do brainstorming and brain dump. And, it will be a good reference book as the layout progresses. What works and what does not.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319001097710357954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrLi-CcplyfFxVm1v47o0O15O6_lowiwDm8IodeaSGLTGrnfdh6xKg6PW6ROLmauF_i0P8sJNecRGSQQ2Qp93oXZN_ylnYgedtaD_KVyvoHMTHks_7_b0alA2pqvxntCmIXpQD_5BYFg/s400/300320091247.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />I just took about 20 pieces of blank A4 sheets (we use A4 paper instead of Legal) and comb-binded them together. I included my track plan in A4 size as well as A3 size (twice of A4) at the back. The A4 sized plan is placed on right side so that I can use the blank space on left to scribble.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315143994250513602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrYcN07gojShn5YQZdYHdbD4J6a84KulZegr5DHyNh091d04SEiK4Sr8v-yfxgkiAGl_Af8pGhgG1aiQ-uxlca6mp3RUY_MaLSf5cAdnAB6QiUi2CFvmoPFzld-gJ0xV2BNP07OrzcDY4/s400/20032009995.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />The A3 sized plan can be unfolded which will reveal clearer details.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315144297296894354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fQN9m9_wdUZWAuamnzVIMKh2e-1SBBJ4339escH7W2iRYYIroSrrRnd7ZsvZVPoG3_A_z4DuH49wBRcnSs85vUFIgp5Th0itXtSEnPLZ8XmzH74u4Zukr2DpcJxDzoMdDJveqOnyueY/s400/20032009996.jpg" border="0" /><br />Besides model railroading, I like writing. I hope to publish a book on Rosenberg Meet one day.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-69522794567893874752009-03-19T18:15:00.003+08:002009-03-19T18:21:27.598+08:00What's On Lower Deck? Galveston Terminal<div>I have not started work on this yet but here's the preview of what I had in mind.<br /><br />After exiting the Algoa helix, the train will travel a stretch and reach Virginia point, which is directly below the intersection of the UP Glidden and BSNF Galvesto tracks at upper deck. The Galveston causeway stretches from that point west to where the word "Alvin" is.<br />The peninsular will host an industry and the Galveston Bay. The space between Alvin up to Rosenberg on lower deck will be Galveston terminal which will have UP and BNSF yards, intermodal terminal and petrochemical industry. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314841742308403378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-ecLd5aGwoLlniwk462sj9JGZJ_hpEdQadWeHlJJr1CXT909ipPfqCvxVsINhPNJe5NAH5D-OHStWT-1IfxqMfV3jiYLD49Kc_jPmGibUudvCqzsyMISV5WIq8CIDklUAzLygxhFmt4/s400/galveston.bmp" border="0" /><br /><div>While waiting for Phase 2 Galveston island, I will install a 4 track staging yard beneath Rosenberg. This allows continouous running between Algoa helix and Temple/San Antonio helix (lower wall helix) at lower deck. I will have the mainline installed but not branchlines or yards that Galveston will have.<br /><br />Lower deck track plan is still in my head but I am seeing a clearer vision now :)<br /><br /><br /><br />Jimmy Low</div>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-19321808776971246102009-03-19T00:28:00.003+08:002009-03-19T00:50:09.080+08:00A Little Research Adds Realism<div>A little research goes a long way in adding realism to a layout. Not that I am a rivet counter. Think about it. Everything has a story to tell. The way tracks are laid, the trees branch out, the location of a structure or even some dirt on the track (yes, I noticed something).</div><br /><div></div><div>I bought this book on BNSF by Brian Solomon. It is an interesting coffee table book that talks about the pre-BNSF days and how each mighty railroad started and merged to become the King of Grain BNSF today.</div><br /><div></div><div> </div><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314570767991349442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLjNtnP-BRTdurtk3u6x7eGDlgU3Q7o7D02V46FG5kb9gTuW6Qf-oSHgHQLScFkFnqRlaCk1jUkv7raU1-uXVF-yeEBvlpKlmRBSuF7cviuPPw0bIAqpNqdSPK2OckBNVuS_SnTn0Sb0/s400/19032009975.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>After all, I am modelling BNSF. It helps to sell them if you know them. Don't you think so?</p><p> </p><p>Jimmy</p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-74778073356662677312009-03-18T19:18:00.004+08:002009-03-18T23:41:28.824+08:00Amtrak Sunset Limited Train No. 2 Is Now Departing for New Orleans via Houston<div>Good news!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amtrak.com/timetable/jan09/P01.pdf">Amtrak Sunset Limited</a> train #2 will pass Tower 17 every Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays on my layout to Houston and New Orleans and return as train #1 every Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.<br /><br />I have 3 P42s and 8 Superliner coaches. Amtrak Sunset Limited runs on this configuration: 2 locos (P42, P40 or P32) + Baggage + Transition Sleeper + Sleeper + Diner + Sightseer Lounge + Coach + Coach.<br /></div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314552924440189234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOZuTsB50Luk40MloxieO-CPZX97n47DkEU2Fcvxnm9YBat311qm4LrNCFFULwYcobwgP___-HBoyDPW6sN4QJYuYe8HGj90tiNqUY_b79qc9sidFsFWVbehOJpfNDOG3CdogNI-n5qQ/s400/18032009974.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div>Now, I need to find a Budd baggage car and a transition sleeper in N-scale to complete the configuration.<br /><div><br />So, when you see Amtrak Sunset Limited running on UP Glidden in certain direction, you know what day it is.<br /><br /><br />Jimmy</div>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-29037258576275232012009-03-17T13:42:00.005+08:002009-04-01T15:24:14.828+08:00This Weekend's To-Do List (Update #1)I have this weekend all planned out:<br /><br />1. Meet Mr Carpenter and his sidekick (Done)<br />2. Prepare bill of materials and budget - tracks, turnouts, locos, cars, structures, etc. (Done)<br />3. Source used cardboards - build mock-up layout and helices as template for actual cutting<br />4. Work out project timeline<br /><br /><br />Target to start work 1st week of April.<br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-63615007399887978482009-03-17T13:12:00.004+08:002009-03-17T13:35:20.064+08:00Madhatter: That's MeStephen Foyt posted his <a href="http://www.trainweb.org/jssand/Houston/Twr17.htm">24 hours at Tower 17, Rosenberg</a> report and concluded that report saying "<strong>Anyone who actually read this far must have been REALLY interested.</strong>" Yes, Stephen. I am one of those who read that far and analysed all the train movements as described by you.<br /><br />I even looked up Google Map to map each of the start and end destination of the 77 trains you and Julian observed and recorded that winter 2004 day, just to get my orientation right vis-a-vis Rosenberg.<br /><br />In fact, I went to the extent of analysing each train - the loco model, road number and cars that it hauled. You will notice a certain type of cars come from certain direction. And as I dived further, I found the reason why this is so. Well, I let you read Stephen's report and watch the type of trains that will ply my routes on my Rosenberg Meet.<br /><br />Interestingly, BNSF tends to use specific motive powers in this region. The common ones are, in descending order of fleet, C44-9W and SD40-2 and SD70MAC. On the other hand, UP loves SD40-2, SD60M and SD70M. You will also see some SD40-2T (Tunnel Motor in Texas??), C44-9W and GP60. I suspect these came from ex-Southern Pacific fleet.<br /><br />As for cars, definitely lots of rock hoppers and gondolas which are UP's "favourite" haul, the King of Grain BNSF with its grain hoppers and mixture of tanks, boxcars, stacks and trailers mainly by UP from New Orleans and Los Angeles<br /><br />Now, you know what kind of traffic you will see on my layout and my coming acquisitions. Stay tune.<br /><br />And, Stephen, someone is watching you :D<br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-91439300677238925842009-03-16T13:14:00.008+08:002009-04-01T15:21:52.657+08:00The Story Behind Rosenberg MeetLast weekend was another productive one for me. I am happy with this latest track plan for Rosenberg Meet.<br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317910193030800370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 231px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 168px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB_AAUHbKzpsBJv995dPp5A9Zky10ROcolTppShNOVBncoIf9XGZdBP4xFcrOmj_GO2mG_9CJ_x0CUK4-ouQ6NnQEVpIbV_HRDlfw9G3585qegyZY722TiqPwuLaLFqvRDTM7WsDS4X4/s400/rosenberg.gif" border="0" /></p><p>Let me run you through this update and the motives behind each track arrangement, position and industry. Give me your feedbacks - positive and areas to improve. I always welcome comments.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Overall Layout</strong><br />My layout will occupy the existing 11.5ft x 10.5ft utility room. President has approved my real estate acquisition based on the boundries below. I need to present to the Board of Directors the budget, revenue projections, etc. for this project. After all, nobody wants to run a loss-making enterprise, even in a 1:160 world.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Why Rosenberg?</strong><br />Tower 17 interlocking tower charmed me when I first saw Wes Carr's photo. Since then, I have been researching more about Rosenberg and this is the one for me. I like BNSF and UP, the two Class 1 railroad west of Mississippi River. Both railroads run long trains on their respective subdivision to Galveston.<br /><br />Modelling BNSF Galveston and UP Glidden subs along this stretch in my utility room fit nicely.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Focus is Tower 17 Rosenberg</strong><br />I kept reminding myself that Tower 17 junction had to be right to capture the feel and awe of BSNF and UP trains crossing each other. Today, Tower 17 is a museum piece but on my layout, I want to re-enact the last few days of Tower 17 still in operations and with various BNSF and UP liveries still plying that route (if you see some of the photos taken by railfans, SP, SF, BN liveries are still spotted) Tower 17 will NEVER be boring. There is a story to tell and I will be the story teller.<br /><br />Both UP Glidden track and BNSF Galveston tracks run parallel to each other east of the Tower 17. UP Glidden (to Houston) will disappear at Point B to subroad level and re-emerge at Point B after Alvin. I will model the cotton gin factory at the curve and north of I-90 highway.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Smither's Lake</strong><br />Between Richmond and Alvin, there is a junction to Thompsons and Smither's Lake where Houston Light and Power (HL&P) coal-fired power plant is located. I will model compressed coal deposit pit and power plant. The track to no-where is the bypass track that connects to UP Popp sub at Alvin. So, it looks like it disappear off the scene and reappear as 90deg crossing at Alvin. Cool eh?<br /><br /><br /><strong>Algoa</strong><br />Algoa is the intersection between UP Angelston, BNSF Mykawa and BNSF Galveston subdivisions. As mentioned earlier, trains will reappear on Point B and cross below the bridge after Alvin (in reality, there is no such crossing) I added to make the UP Glidden run more interesting as well as allowing UP Glidden to have a continuous running. I added a wye near Algoa which connects to UP Angelston (lift-up bridge) to the other side of upper deck and another track that disappears to no-where.<br /><br />On BNSF Galveston, the track after Algoa will head downgrade to a helix to lower deck (staging yard for now, Galveston in the future).<br /><br />There is some empty space right of Algoa (above the helix). I want to model grain elevator. Thus, I am using my creative license to do just that. Is there one in the real Algoa? I did not see it in Google Map.<br /><br /><br /><strong>West of Tower 17</strong><br />The double track north of Tower 17 is BNSF Galveston sub to Sealy and Temple. Not much focus there but the tracks are long enough to hold 2 locos + 10 cars (represented by light blue line and curve). It heads to Point C and into a double track helix to lower deck staging.<br /><br />Meanwhile UP Glidden heads west to San Antonio (represented by track to helix). I don't plan to do much at this corner. </p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313652600596607586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 349px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVW1-mZG5aRrr_RdUr6IbZBLFUj-GMTM4APb7lsWfsPDztil2zAd4YnaQgHiQiUA3lSY7FN8-DPvhNdgP3a_DilspZym2uVFBKJmMh4uT8SIl4dJi8LbKZiGmPeaJ4yrWEfhbdYLjykTE/s400/rosenberg-upperdeck-ver3.bmp" border="0" /><br /><p></p><p align="center"><strong>Upper Deck</strong><br /></p><br /><p><br /><strong>Tell me what you think</strong><br />I am happy with the overall layout and track arrangement. I will be using Atlas and ME code 55 flextracks and turnouts. The minimum radius is 15 inch to accomodate 6-axle power motives that ply the route. I could not go beyond 15 inch without compromising on the aisle space.<br /><br />This layout is intended to be run by 3-4 operators. The layout will be DCC using NCE PowerCab (and upgrade to PowerPro later).<br /><br />The turnouts will be #5 and #7 for most of the locations. I am considering whether to invest in handlaid turnouts. I have 26 turnouts at upper deck. Maybe it is economical after all to buy Fast Track jigs and do it myself.<br /></p><br /><p>Links:<br />TrainBoard: <a href="http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/showthread.php?t=100515&page=5">http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/showthread.php?t=100515&page=5</a><br />Model Railroader: <a href="http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/149507/1655831.aspx#1655831">http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/149507/1655831.aspx#1655831</a><br /><br />Jimmy Low</p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-30759519074352418732009-03-14T22:41:00.007+08:002009-03-14T23:38:26.214+08:00With a Magnifying Glass, Google Map and Pen<div>Even though Bharani, my carpenter, and Jason could not make it this afternoon to survey the train room and discuss my layout, no time was wasted.<br /></div><div>I took out my track plan and started looking at the overall feel of the layout. I started mapping the track arrangements from Tower 17 east and west all the way to Algoa.</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313064244348741970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4_1pjq-XHdrdGegUwJ9zEJWqo9Uj31jqPNeK80hinS79-PYHzeI1k9kJ6RZErDelVaUkyoconGSu5ha-NmBnhvPV-8EN4wg0QHwqZOqxKheUmZL5HdsFSEiWwT7Ra8ho8qGFM8i2C80/s400/14032009914.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p>In earlier plans, I only outlined the mainlines (BNSF Galveston and UP Glidden) and some sidings that shape Rosenberg Meet. While this is fine for a start and defines the boundary of my layout, I need to make sure I have interesting features captured in the layout. I can't have everything but something just evoke a feel of the place in 1:160 world. I hope to be able to capture that feeling and when someone sees it, he/she will say, oh yea ... that's so-and-so place.</p><p>I was working with XTrkCAD, Google Map and a few sheets of paper. I took a closer look at the track arrangements and sketched them on paper. I zoomed for a closer look and some of the amazing things I discovered (to find out what I discovered, you got to wait till the layout is completed and I point them to you then :D)</p><p>Okay, back to "track hunting" again. Stay tune.</p><p> </p><p>Jimmy Low</p><p> </p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-23203596898767825572009-03-13T23:50:00.004+08:002009-03-14T22:37:33.458+08:00(Did Not) Meet Mr Carpenter<a href="http://a5.vox.com/6a00d414269a673c7f00d414334e1d3c7f-500pi"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 298px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://a5.vox.com/6a00d414269a673c7f00d414334e1d3c7f-500pi" border="0" /></a><br />Nope, not Richard Carpenter of The Carpenters siblings.<br /><br />Bharani, a talented young chap, who built KTMrailwayfan club's benchwork (KTM took back their premises and the benchwork has been dismantled) , will be helping me with my benchwork. In my professional field, it's okay to outsource to the people who can do the task better than yourself. And, a solid benchwork is a MUST or the entire layout will suffer.<br /><br />As the architect of Rosenberg Meet, I will drive the look and feel of the layout and the finer details while Bharani will help me with the knockings. I have seen his work.<br /><br />We will meet today (Saturday) at 3pm with Jason, my first N-scale convert, to go through my layout plan. The overall track work is almost done. I will add the helices and other details based on feedbacks. I will also outline the structures and their positions on the layout.<br /><br />This meeting signals the beginning of the layout construction. We will meet a few times to iron out the details. I intend to do a cardboard mock-up of the layout to get a feel of the layout height, dimensions and aisle spaces. The cardbock mock-up will also serve as a template for the plywood cutouts.<br /><br />I will update as this progresses. So, stay tune and as always, your inputs are welcomed. Give them early so that I can take into consideration. I typically let a plan open for comments for 1-2 weeks before incorporating any details. 2 weeks is plenty of time. I don't like to rush and regret later. But, I have no regrets starting my first N-scale layout.<br /><br />This morning, I overheard conversations about trains and I joined in the conversation. A few of my colleagues now know that I am a railfan and modeller. They are waiting for my layout to be ready to play trains! Wooooo Hooooooo!<br /><br />Update:<br />Mr. Carpenter did not turn up today. His commuter train was 45 mins late and the heavy downpour in KL prevented him from reaching my place before 5pm. We have rescheduled for next Saturday.<br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-7171626393824602772009-03-12T12:38:00.009+08:002009-03-14T23:48:11.402+08:00The Wonderful World of InternetIsn't World Wide Web a wonderful invention of all time? For modellers like myself, from a far away land, the Internet brings the railroad closer to home; right in front of me. As I research about BNSF and UP in south-west Texas and looking at the photos, Google maps and other information about Rosenberg, Tower 17, Algoa, Galveston, etc., it made me feel like being there without being physically there.<br /><br />As I looked at photos from Wes Carr, Russell Straw, Bob Chapman and others for inspirations and get a feel on the places mentioned about, immediately ideas popped in my head. I begin to jot down finer details what should be incorporated into my layout; those little things that you will not nice. Like they say, a picture paints a thousand words. There are many more words that you can dechiper from the photos. Take a look at them in these links and tell me what you see (look at them and close your eyes)<br /><br />Photos:<br /><a href="http://www.railfan.net/railpix/submit/robertchapman/" target="_blank">Robert Chapman's Rosenberg</a><br /><a href="http://rides.webshots.com/album/63499176xIFjLD" target="_blank">Tower 17 Rosenberg Webshots</a><br /><a href="http://www.railroadsignals.us/towers/tower17.htm" target="_blank">Rosenberg Railroad Museum and Tower 17</a><br /><a href="http://www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Rosenberg RR Museum</a><br /><a href="http://www.railroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13285">William Davis Jr's Information on Tower 17</a><br /><a href="http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php/cat/882">Russell Straw's Photos of Tower 17 and other SP Towers</a> (the man with the keys to Tower 17)<br /><a href="http://www.trainweb.org/southwestshorts/wsc-bnsf7154rosenberg.html">Wes Carr's Photos of Tower 17 Rosenberg</a> (the photo that started my Tower 17 hunt)<br /><br />And, with instant messaging, I am in touch with many on the side of the world. Thanks Steve, Denny, Kenneth, Dave, Flash, Russell, Jamie and others for your advice and comments. I truly appreciate the help in my layout. Every bit of information counts.<br /><br /><br /><br />Jimmy Lowmytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4799047405572621591.post-29028701829266205062009-03-10T17:23:00.018+08:002009-03-17T14:28:03.207+08:00Locations to Model<div align="left">I have taken some snapshots of the locations I want to model from Google Map. Some interesting features or industries to model (some selective compression is necessary).</div><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311488244646891826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 125px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGc8tQ0k_FMUXlahKOe7hzpW4-9ZYZUUvYtHWQ4iDnMQxjFoc__-oheiI5_eavEI8C7w3v9cjH3UQDpli2Ho29vM-vZe9BXdJSBSflIgTqPnBSWRoLNjOHQL_RHH6TRgNU_JqBePs7pU/s400/rosenberg-junction.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"><strong>Rosenberg Junction where BNSF Galveston and UP Glidden<br />cross each other</strong><br /></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311488650642646178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 143px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-mwy__1Iv4l6TkJar68iM5gtmics5VyNU2Wg7F4go9Ct1ETCbi8fOcyYFuJq1p7yfU86UbP8WqfCjjx0H520RCDfau0J8ZDd1s6cclzaXmLyxiofh_mDv5GrHrzhPzQqZRPOSjNl-Gk/s400/richmond.bmp" border="0" /> <strong>Richmond Junction where BNSF Galveston heads south-east<br />and UP Glidden heads east<br /></strong></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311489573561676978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0l6u_vKMk-PcQPwGez8VNJ6JyeOuegeBE6FlY2i47bS4ODuO1RFS2nKMcbURWaA1dDSiAh36F5YaTziOqPLFjYBQ7Nbu6iMZeYnLUocSLlea_oOZ_gkvlWlooK1OgodunA0beyKa46I/s400/junction-to-smithers-lake.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"><strong>Junction to Smithers Lake and Thompsons</strong><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311490042058911906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 154px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHBsC4tSUUzyYuBci178xw03UilXrV2klMl1kseYra0dOdlaRp10lmu1l05UkyeH385h4mUHiyC9eTWeqDef_WpOi7IQ2MzL4g45QR7cvNkybhsbsa8gQUI7YOovxU8aipvTEsHejZ6sY/s400/smither-lake-thompsons.bmp" border="0" /></p><p align="center"><strong>Smithers Lake and Thompsons Coal Fired Power Plant<br /></strong></p><br /><br /><p></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311490435083139298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 187px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaKNqK8fSLLQ4KNc92oeQ7sOGJmgzAd6-VPlhFwtEZ90xgqZ69oviNYiSIJOJ89m6HNIVAafIBgSUKy4xPEiBnKF384N_ipRPBhOmxtbpuz3QZShGLmTiEhGWLk8USL4ISHOvQCNnsDk/s400/thompsons-coalpit.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"><strong>Thompson coal deposit pit and tracks that circle the pit</strong><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311490980429882770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9DM3wuOIJjSlZvlANOdxzNfKyVLMBK3Ee5DT9lQFmQGdg1IBFWv_9nJbxpw-OIDNo6xBfu4OtOx3dXfL-qYdhjdUqKqaz_BYvV9eZyf2NQOkyPMeebIyG8L346jsb3qDNffSls1z3bI/s400/thompsons-powerplant.bmp" border="0" /><strong>Thompson power plant<br /></strong></p><p></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311491374387336338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 152px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIHhyphenhyphen4LikPkc4RGylMGpHe_v8lexWXyAELDAh7QIJigW8U-BowSpK9uf3S6aF43tC4XKlV2DXv9PIEd25lEiYKZT_-gf-l0uRiOREGO0cVK1AKHHtraAmBQWrRjHjj7XA5r0OmbNC1tE/s400/up-popp-at-alvin.bmp" border="0" /> <strong>BNSF Galveston and BNSF Mykawa junction near Alvin</strong></p><br /><p align="center"></p><p align="center"></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311491751616038706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 198px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ4SG-nvrd7QOMo2cvKvd7jyFDUyupYhnDTYOALKwRCdqk1agSYKcALeDF_oQ3VDVg7xjU8l2PsKY-OswSNylMIal95JHe3QkH4EYnETwvVIGnrdnnEEjswxYUIOP22jBbWZoweQcai7I/s400/up-angelston-at-algoa.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"><strong>BNSF Galveston and UP Angelston junction near Algoa</strong><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311492475415378338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 156px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj56Bz-UK9nM9miHsSqBBxXzFOCqLWNggu0mjT_lZXLJ8SvyTAj6yb3YLrGNjF7R5hjlN3uFEUnmefTLkKlwhAwRz78BUD3IgMuBkZglRjO8-snj5HzV2N2PYwkjl5Q7NcoyfMOIQ8ot6s/s400/virginia-point.bmp" border="0" /></p><div align="center"><strong>BNSF Galveston and UP Galveston merge at<br />Virginia Point before heading to Galveston<br /></strong></div><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311493043095720482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 162px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpaNmtVylC17u2q1Qvd1g8uxorjbZJHldHZMuwzjRtVk4t5dubvGL-gvNPnlu6QJkMq3KkP36V5B9Qzm2JH_4NBn7kEozRGoisPNKsyeKLbmj09lj0buEvvsp8rggpzInLh-ROyvuU3o/s400/galveston-causeway.bmp" border="0" /> <strong>Galveston causeway and lift bridge<br /></strong></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311493457678949314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTFXOwHoFnGS6gKurm5BePWat2SyYn1X9gSdeYTxEwxrdwvBA26duhaCiWeqITxVVWRAvOO752Hq5KZN2sl-lhKBhlJ2m7iU5zklTyfTGlPQC44r46HrNXh6Kp6_71EjCdtRQC84moCw/s400/galveston.bmp" border="0" /><strong>Galveston</strong></p><p align="left">Galveston can occupy the entire lower deck in the future. What a sight to model! Kenneth from Corpus Christi, Texas is modelling the <a href="http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/showthread.php?t=88991&highlight=island+seaport">island seaport of Galveston</a></p><p align="left">I am drooling already</p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">Jimmy Low</p>mytrainmasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09489564770822815420noreply@blogger.com0