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Train whistles and signal bells will resonate in the lobby of Kidd Key Auditorium at Sherman Arts Festival. Red River Railroading will display an HO scale model layout as part of Celebrate ART, on September 15 and 16. Club representative John Markl said that train buffs of all ages will enjoy this display and have the opportunity to discuss the art of model making with members of the area club. There is no admission charge. A drawing for a 4’ x 6’ HO train layout will be held near the close of the festival, with tickets for only one dollar.
Creating a layout that will travel is an art in itself; individual sections allow for on-the-spot assembly. Markl explained that the display will be a sectional layout which allows members to build a small portion of a layout, and then connect it to other sections to create the full layout. Eight club members have worked on this layout.
The overall dimensions of the layout are 12'x16', with only one track that travels around the layout. The remaining space is used for switching operations in the yard with secondary operation on the passing and industrial sidings. Club members work at continually improving the layout, and Markl noted that visitors will see models of local railroad stock, including the Katy and Burlington Northern Santa Fe.
The Red River Railroad was formed in 1982 as a local club for the Texoma area. At one time the club maintained and showed a large HO modular layout. They currently have this smaller sectional layout that they show at the two Dallas train shows and other shows in the area. The club goal is to maintain an active club and promote the hobby in our community. Their website address is www.geocities.com/redriverrails/
Weekly working and operating sessions are open to anyone with an interest in trains. Currently the club meets every Thursday night after 7:00 PM in Sherman at John Markl's house. The meetings are dedicated to rail work and having a good time together. Anyone is welcome to come to the meetings, and there is open membership policy with no dues.
The model railroad exhibit will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, September 15, and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 16. For more information about this and other events at Sherman Arts Festival, contact either the Sherman Dept. of Tourism, 903-957-0310, the Chamber of Commerce, 903-893-1184, or visit www.shermantx.org.
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