All Aboard -- The Origins of the Grand Strand Model Railroad Club and Our Passion for Trains
Release Date: 09/25/2024
Building the Town Around the Train
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
This week, Bill welcomes Angelo Gamache to On the Track: Myrtle Beach. Angelo shares how he first got into the hobby and his unique role in bringing layouts to life by building the towns that surround the trains. From crafting intricate structures to recreating landmarks like the Gone with the Wind house, Angelo walks us through his creative process and the techniques he uses to make each building a work of art. It’s a fascinating look at how the scenery becomes just as important as the trains themselves. All Aboard!
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Memorial Day on the Rails
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this special Memorial Day episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, Bill sits down with Ed Ovsenik to talk about his ties to the military and his experience running special trains for different branches, including the Army and Navy. Ed shares how the military still uses trains today, and what it’s like to coordinate these unique runs. We also touch on plans to bring the tradition back for Veterans Day and hear stories from Pat MacAfee’s visit to Parris Island. It’s a heartfelt look at the connection between railroads and the men and women who serve. All Aboard!
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From the Real Rails to the Model Tracks
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
This week, Bill welcomes new club member Mike Voisine to On the Track: Myrtle Beach. Before joining the world of model railroading, Mike was a real-life railroad conductor for the Vermont Railroad. He shares how he first got into the hobby, what drew him to railroading, and the path that led him from full-size trains to miniature ones. Mike gives us an inside look at the training process, the routes he worked, his day-to-day responsibilities, and what it was like working alongside a real train crew. It’s a fascinating conversation that bridges the gap between authentic railroad experience...
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On the Road to The Train Shop in Little River, SC with John Conley
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, we hit the road to visit our new sponsor—The Train Shop in Little River, SC! Bill sits down with owner John Conley, who shares how his deep railroad roots inspired both his love of the hobby and the creation of his shop. From his early days in model railroading to what you’ll find in the store today, John gives us the full tour. Tune in to hear how you can visit this local gem and connect with the growing train community along the Grand Strand. All Aboard!
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Building the Perfect Layout Part 3
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, Bill and guests Rick Dilcher, Jim Huffschmitt, and Pete Wheeler, wrap up their Building the Perfect Layout series with a focus on the fundamentals of success: preparation, patience, and continuous learning. They discuss why starting small can lead to big results, how proper planning ensures a smooth-running layout, and why there's always more to discover in the world of model railroading. This episode is all about setting yourself up for success and enjoying the journey. All Aboard!
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Building the Perfect Layout Part 2
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, Bill and guest Bob Nehemeth continue their deep dive into building the ultimate model train layout, this time focusing on O Gauge! They explore the benefits of FasTrack, tips for using foam board for realistic scenery and elevation, and techniques to create a smooth, durable layout. This episode is packed with insights to take your layout to the next level! All Aboard!
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Building the Perfect Layout Part 1
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, Bill and guests Judge Shugart, Pete Wheeler, and Bob Nehemeth kick off a multi-part series on building the perfect model train layout. From planning your track design to selecting the right scale and materials, they explore the foundational steps every model railroader should consider. This episode lays the groundwork for creating a layout that brings your vision to life. All Aboard!
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All About Layouts
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, Bill and guests Frank Jackson and Rick Dilcher dive into the world of model train layouts. Explore creative design techniques, tips for maximizing your space, and how to bring your miniature worlds to life. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration to take your layouts to the next level. All Aboard!
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Happy Holidays
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
Celebrate the festive season with this special holiday episode as Bill and guests Ed Ovsenik and Jim Huffschmitt dive into the magic of holiday train layouts, the charm of G scale trains, and the timeless joy of special Christmas-themed locomotives. Join us as we explore how trains bring the spirit of the season to life. All Aboard!
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Tips for Getting Started
On the Track: Myrtle Beach
In this episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, Bill and guests Kyle DeGennaro and Ethan Guimond (HO Operator, GSMRC) dive into the exciting world of HO and N scale model trains, covering the essentials to get you on track. From choosing your first locomotive to designing layouts and finding inspiration, they share practical tips, tricks, and advice to help you build the railway of your dreams. All aboard!
info_outlineIn this debut episode of On the Track: Myrtle Beach, we welcome listeners aboard as we embark on a journey through the fascinating world of model railroading. Meet our host Bill Blackburn as he welcomes guests Don Brooks and Pete Wheeler to learn about the origins of the club, its mission, and the community of passionate enthusiasts that make it all happen. Whether you're a seasoned model railroader or just curious about the hobby, this episode lays the tracks for what’s to come—engaging discussions, expert tips, and stories from the model railroad community. All aboard!