2012 Turkey Creek Division Modeling Challenge
by Rusty Rails
Here we go again! For the 9th Annual TCD Modeling Challenge, the theme returns to the very first year of the Challenge, the Square Footer is back! So, this year, you may build and enter anything, yes….that’s anything….as long as it fits on a 12“ x 12“ (or less) base. This is the theme voted on by the members attending the modeling challenge meeting last summer.
So, what exactly does this mean for each of you? What it means is that you will now not have any excuse whatsoever for not participating in the event. Let me emphasize here that the Modeling Challenge program was conceived to encourage everyone to participate in the enjoyment of building and displaying railroad models!! Please don’t feel overwhelmed, intimidated, or …… that you don’t have time to join in. It is hoped that by participating you will feel a sense of “inclusion”, that of being “one of the group.”
You may ask yourself, what sort of model could I enter? First, let me make this clarification…..entries need not be constructed especially for this event. If you have something that you built in the past, please consider entering it. Or, if there is a new project that you have been thinking about starting, now is a good time. You could limit your entry to a single car or locomotive; remember any scale or gauge is acceptable (yes, Warren, you can bring whatever you like!). You could also consider entering your favorite entire train. Alternatively, you could focus on structures and enter a single structure or a full scene, with several buildings. Remember, there is no limit! You might want to build a large or small display or diorama, with basic details or highly detailed. Whichever, this could be an opportunity to build a component of your home layout….to be incorporated into the layout at a later date. Several of the past entries have been used in this way, to a great benefit of the modeler. Possibly, the ultimate entry could be an entire operating layout (albeit, somewhat small……remember, it has to fit through the door)! This is intended to be a fun filled event, with the entry possibilities only limited by your imagination and enthusiasm to participate.
The judging will be by popular vote, so crowd appeal will be important. The event will take place at our June 28nd meeting, so you have five months to prepare your entry. As in the past, there will be three places awarded for this challenge, plus awards for the “Most Creative” and the “Most Whimsical” entries. But, again, I want to emphasize that the participation is the important aspect of this program. So, if you’re interested in being involved, start thinking about your model entry now. There is plenty of time, but don’t put it off. This will be another fun event!