SHMRRC Minutes for the Monthly Meeting
Date: August 29, 2023 

The meeting was held at Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran Church, President Jeff Graybill presiding. 

Attendees:

           Jeff Graybill, President
           Warren Ashbrook, Vice President
           Dave Bodnar, Treasurer
           Rich Aubel, Secretary
           Dave Tepe
           Dave Murphy
           Dave Maynard
           Dale Vilsack
           Vince Lilja
           John Kolonay
           Bill Davies 

 Presidents Report:

The Greenberg Train Show went very well for the combined SHMRRC and NMRA Div 2 layout. Trains ran well on the entire layout and in spite of the low public attendance we got many compliments and inquiries about the club. An opinion was expressed that, if we had two more four foot modules, it would make the loop more impressive and also give us flexibility when some members are unable to attend an event. 

Our participation in the Heidelberg Fire Department’s Octoberfest celebration on October 7th will depend on the weather. Club members have stated their willingness to participate with the condition that if the weather forecast on Wednesday, October 4th is for rain on Saturday we will not attend. If the weather cooperates, we will most probably set up on the morning of the seventh and tear down that same evening.  The event is held from 12:00 noon to 9:00 pm so help from all members will be appreciated for the long day. 

Mount Lebanon Light Night is the next possible event. However, since the problems with Covid in 2020 and 2021 and with the change in the event last year due to township sidewalk problems, we are not yet sure when or if it will happen this year. Dave Bodnar sent an email to the township requesting information on plans for this year.

No further information regarding the Carnegie Library possibility is available. 

Treasurers Report:

The current balance in the Treasury remains at $5,092.25 in checking and $350.00 cash on hand for a total of $5442.25. 


 
Program:

 
Jeff Graybill brought in an animated sign from Miller Engineering Company.  Miller Engineering has a large number of battery operated signs for N, HO, and O Scale. 

 
Rich Aubel demonstrated a technique for improving the appearance of brick models.  Using craft acrylic paint and water, the thinned paint allows the pigment to settle into the mortar lines on the model and makes it look more realistic.
 
Rich Aubel brought in approximately 50 models of buildings that were made available to any member that wanted them. There will be more available at the next meeting.

Members discussed the use of decals to add the road name and number on a steam locomotive. 

Next Meeting:

The next SHMRRC meeting will be at the Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran Church at 7:00 pm on September 25, 2023.