#5549 From: "Gary R. Kazin"
Date: Sun Jan 3, 2010 1:20 pm
Subject: M&E 'Camouflage' boxcar 1775 photo
M&E 'camouflage' boxcar 1775 used on the Toys For Tots train has been parked on
the Franklin Road siding on the Dover & Rockway for the last week or more. I
finally brought a camera today and took its portrait.
Gary R. Kazin
DL&W Milepost R35.7
Rockaway, New Jersey
1 of 1 Photo(s) P1040453.JPG
#5550 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Jan 4, 2010 6:44 pm
Subject: Caboose stove
Everyone,
We have been offered a CNJ caboose stove by one of our members that
we can put in the station or find a good home for it. The only problems
are, we have to get it out of the house it is in by next weekend and it
is in a basement in Staten Island. I have a hand truck and straps so
it should not be too bad (famous last words).
So I have tentatively set up Saturday at 10am to go pick it up. We
will need a couple of able bodied people to come along and manhandle
the thing out and into my pickup. The plan right now is to leave Hawthorne
station at about 9:15 and hopefully be back before about noon.
If you can help with this please let me know right away.
Thanks,
KC
#5551 From: InStitches4U@...
Date: Mon Jan 4, 2010 3:31 pm
Subject: Re: Caboose stove
as far as this stove ......not as big as one may think
handy things to have:
gloves
sawzall (s)
nut breakers
cold chisels
good pry bars,,,,
beer
pizza
these things are not one piece.. they are basically in sections
the bowl ,the rim,, top,,,,,,, grates.. and cinder box.....
stands- after looking at it this weekend-. approx 30 off the floor
maybe 28 wide at the top...
* history behind it ,,,,,if anyone remembers a huge brush fire on Staten
Island in the 60's ,,,,, the CNJ hack never made it back to NJ from
Arlington yard ,,,,,,, the stove was all that was left .....as well
as the ladders,,,,,,,frame.......trucks...... my father ( THE
Yardmaster ) couldn't fit those into the Rambler so we got the
stove....less then a week later ,,,,,,, we had new heat in our
basement. just couldn't see it scrapped!
Walt
B.C. Junction
#5552 From: Jonathan Berkemeyer
Date: Tue Jan 5, 2010 3:06 pm
Subject: Newsletter
Hello everyone.
I hope you all had a good holiday season and a great new year. I'm back
to request articles for the news letter next month. Yes, I know it is
early but I have several reasons for the request. First this is going
to be a personally crazy month for me, so the more I get done, the
better. Second, I’m trying out a new layout and would like extra time
for experimenting with this new design.
In the last few months The Digest has been a one or two person show. Id
love to have some new names writing articles. So I encourage anyone with
interest in writing an article to do so. Subjects can range from VRA
activities to Motorcar doings to a historical topic about a railroad in
the area.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to email me off
list.
Jon
#5553 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Jan 20, 2010 9:41 am
Subject: Hawthorne Station volunteerra
Everyone,
We are getting very close to being able to sign the lease with the
NYSW so that we can finally move ahead with our project to move and
restore the station. We are aiming at April 1st as the starting point
for the work to begin, but have some more work to do before we can make
that final.
Part of the work we needed to do was repair the 2 corners that have
been hit by trucks over the years and to my surprise when I stopped by
the station last night, someone did the repair. We are not sure who
did it and will be trying to find out today so we can thank them.
I write all this because I was wondering if any of you saw any work
going on at the station in the last few days or if you might know who
did the work. If you do please let me know.
I hope everyone is keeping warm this winter and is getting ready for
a busy 2010 in the VRA. Our first project will be our Easter Trains,
which we are looking to run on March 27th and 28th. Please mark these
dates down so that you can be part of these great days out on the rails.
See you all at our next meeting on February 18th,
KC
PS, Be sure to vote when you get your ballot in the mail in the next
few weeks.
#5557 From: nysw88@...
Date: Wed Jan 20, 2010 7:13 am
Subject: Re: Hawthorne Station nysw88
I believe the work was done by Larry DiBello who works for the NYS&W.
He called me on Monday to see if he could get electric power at the
station for some work he needed to do. I told him about the power plug
on the North / West side of the station. He left me a message on Tuesday
to say he found the plug and all went well. I hope this clears some of
the mystery. Billy
#5559 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jan 22, 2010 12:56 pm
Subject: Third anniversary of loosing Joe Weber
Everyone,
This weekend (January 24th) marks the 3 anniversary of the passing
of our good friend and founding member Joe Weber. To help mark this
sad anniversary we are going to go to the cemetery (George Washington,
in Paramus) on Saturday (the 23rd) and lay some flowers on his grave.
We are meeting at Hawthorne Station at 11am and should be to the cemetery
by about 11:15. Anyone who would like to join us is welcome. If you knew
Joe and can not make it, please take a few minutes this weekend to remember
all he meant to our group as a whole and you personally.
Thanks,
KC
#5567 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Feb 8, 2010 5:46 pm
Subject: Easter Train
Everyone,
Today I received a call from NJT with an approval for our Easter Bunny
Trains. they will be March 27th from Wayne and 28th from Glen Rock.
Now we need to get going on getting the advertising out which means putting
out the signs, banners and posters. we are going to have our first session
this Saturday February 13th meeting at Hawthorne station at 10am. If you have
a few hours and can come out and help it will make the job for everyone much
easier and faster. If you can not make it then we will have a supply at the
station and can work out setting up a time for you to come and pick some up.
We also need to start to get the staff and characters set. Tri-State NRHS
will be working with us this year and will use their part of the profit to
repair and repaint their F-3 and we will use ours for the work we are doing
on the station. I say this because Tri-State will be supplying 50 percent of
the manpower which will help, but we still need to make sure we get as many
people as we can. So please mark down the dates and let us know if you can help.
See you Saturday at 10.
Thanks,
KC
#5568 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Feb 10, 2010 6:12 pm
Subject: Easter Bunny Train Press Release
Everyone,
Below is a copy of the press release we have just sent out to most if not all of
the newspapers in our area. But there are many web sites and other publications
that I am sure we are not aware of who might publish the press release. So please
copy and paste the release below and send it along to any place that you know that
might publish it for us. I am also attaching a copy of a picture from a past train
that you can attach to the e-mail for them to print. In addition I am attaching a
file with the press release just in case that works better for you.
Thanks,
KC
Volunteer Railroaders Association
80 Royal Avenue
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Phone 973-238-0555
February 10, 2010 PRESS RELEASE
EASTER BUNNY TRAIN RETURNS TO THE RAILS
The Volunteer Railroaders Association along with the Tri-State Chapter National
Railway Historical Society has announced the return of their very popular Easter
Bunny Train Ride to be held this year on March 27th and 28th. Ticket prices remain
only $9.00 for children under 12 and $13.00 for everyone else. But if you purchase
the tickets on line through www.easterbunnytrain.com you will save 50 cents per ticket.
On the March 27th the trains will depart from the NJ Transit Rt. 23 Transit Center
at 9:30 am, 12 noon and 2:30 pm. These trips will run out through scenic Morris
County and back. Along the way the trains will pass by the Boonton Restoration
yard, where much of the railroad equipment destined for the NJ Transportation
Heritage Center is being worked on or stored.
On March 28th the trains will depart the NJ Transit Glen Rock Boro Hall station at
9:30AM, 12:00 and 2:30PM. These trips will run up through Bergen County and into
scenic Rockland County, New York. Spring will be in the air as we ride along enjoying
the scenes outside the windows and the activities inside the cars.
During the one hour and 30 minute ride the Easter Bunny will hop through the train and
visit each child and give them a special gift from his basket. In addition each child
can have his or her picture taken with the bunny so they can always remember their ride,
so bring your cameras. Also on board will be other cartoon characters to entertain the
kids and make for a great day out for all on board. For more information or to order
tickets visit them on line at www.easterbunnytrain.com or call the VRA at 973-238-0555,
major credit cards are accepted.
These trips are being run to help raise funds for 2 purposes this year. First is to
repair and repaint a very historic locomotive owned by the Tri-State Chapter. The
engine is an EMD F-3 type locomotive and the goal is to paint it into Lackawanna
Railroad colors and possibly use it on future train rides. The other cause is to
help the VRA restore and preserve the historic NYS&W Hawthorne train station.
So why not gather up the kids and Grandparents and join the VRA, Tri-State Chapter
and the Easter Bunny on these fun train rides. You will not only have a great time
with your family you will also be helping to preserve history for generations to
come to enjoy. Tickets for these trains usually sell out quickly so don't delay call
or visit them on-line today. The ticket office is located at 80 Royal Ave., Hawthorne
in the train station and is open Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6 to 9 pm and Saturday
from 12 to 4 pm all other times just leave a message and they will call you back.
The Volunteer Railroaders Association is a federal 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
#5578 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Feb 18, 2010 12:13 pm
Subject: Easter signs
Everyone,
We need to work on getting more signs out for the Easter Train this weekend. We have
road side, paper and banner type signs available.
I will be opening the station at noon on Saturday for the first day of phone and
walk in sales so anyone who wants to come by and pick up signs can do so, I will
be there until 4PM.
Also tonight is the VRA meeting and before we head over to the meeting hall we will
have the station open from about 5:30 to 7PM.
If anyone wants to go out and do some sign work on Sunday we can arrange to get
the station open, just let us know what time.
Please pass this request along to any other member who might be able to help.
Thanks,
KC
#5579 From: Jon
Date: Sun Feb 21, 2010 4:58 pm
Subject: New VRA E-Mail
Everyone,
With the change of servers for the web site we are starting to roll out
vratrips.org E-Mail addresses. The first is volunteers@.... This E-Mail
address will serve as a way for members to let us know your availability for
trips and other events.
That being said, positions for the Easter Bunny train still need to be filled.
Positions include car hosts, characters, character helpers and parking lot
attendants. If you would like to fill any of these positions please send an
email to the new address and let us know. Please indicate which day you can
work, Saturday, Sunday or both.
Thanks,
Jon
#5580 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Feb 24, 2010 8:01 pm
Subject: Easter bunny flyers
Good evening VRA and Tri-Staters,
The flyers for the 2010 Easter Bunny Trains have been uploaded to the 'Files' section
of both the VRA and Tri-State Yahoo group. Please consider printing a couple out and
posting them in local businesses, supermarkets, et al to help promote the upcoming
trips. Your support is very much necessary to the success of this effort. At this
moment we have less than 500 tickets sold out of a total of 4320 we need to sell out
both days. With the upcoming storm, undoubtedly some of our roadside signs will be
knocked over by plows. When the weather breaks we'll need to get out there for that
purpose. We will also have a large supply of flyers available at Hawthorne Station
this weekend. We thank you very much for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Charles
#5581 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Thu Feb 25, 2010 5:05 pm
Subject: Re: Easter bunny flyers
Charles,
2 press releases posted, both picked up by Google News.
58 press releases sent to various railroad / mom(y) related Yahoo! Groups, 35 of which
have shown up so far (other are moderated groups).
Mike
----- Message from @... ---------
Date: Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:01:31 -0800 (PST)
From: VRA Inc
Subject: [ilroaders] Easter bunny flyers
> Good evening VRA and Tri-Staters,
>
> The flyers for the 2010 Easter Bunny Trains have been uploaded to
> the 'Files' section of both the VRA and Tri-State Yahoo group.
> Please consider printing a couple out and posting them in local
> businesses, supermarkets, et al to help promote the upcoming trips.
> Your support is very much necessary to the success of this effort.
> At this moment we have less than 500 tickets sold out of a total of
> 4320 we need to sell out both days. With the upcoming storm,
> undoubtedly some of our roadside signs will be knocked over by
> plows. When the weather breaks we'll need to get out there for that
> purpose. We will also have a large supply of flyers available at
> Hawthorne Station this weekend. We thank you very much for your
> assistance.
>
> Sincerely,
> Charles
>
#5584 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Mar 1, 2010 9:27 pm
Subject: This Saturday, March 6th
Good evening VRA and Tri-Staters,
This Saturday, we will be opening the Hawthorne Station at 9 am to make available
signs and posters to support the upcoming Easter Bunny trains. We have 100 new
roadside signs being delivered this week. Currently, we are behind in sales compared
to past years. We urgently need to reach our customers and sell the remaining tickets.
The success of these trains is vital to our efforts to both more then Hawthorne Station
and restore the F3. We sincerely need your help. With warmer weather in the forecast,
hopefully people will start thinking about spring and Easter. With more ads, hopefully
we see the sales we all hope for.
On another item, we do need someone to staff the Hawthorne Station for the next couple
Saturdays from noon to 4pm. If you can help with this weekend or any other, please
contact the VRA at this email address.
Sincerely,
Charles
#5589 From: Jonathan
Date: Wed Mar 3, 2010 4:38 pm
Subject: This Saturday
Everyone,
I posted this under the VRA's email account, and it apparently did not show up
in the group. So if you get this twice, my apologies ahead of time.
--------------------------------
I've been out placing signs and I've noticed that in areas where the snow has
melted, the ground is soft and no longer frozen. With a little over three weeks
to go until the 27th, our window of opportunity to get signs and fliers out is
still open, but narrowing. This weekend, the station will be open by 11:45 am
and will be open until 4:30.
I will be at the station along with Bob Bodenstein of Tri-State, and my son, who
at the age of 4, by his own choice, has sacrificed an afternoon of playing for
an afternoon at the station.
I encourage all available members to stop by the station and pick up fliers or
ground signs for placement. I hope to see you at Hawthorne Station on Saturday.
Jon
#5590 From: Jon
Date: Wed Mar 3, 2010 4:00 pm
Subject: This Saturday
Everyone,
I've been out placing signs and I've noticed that in areas where the snow has
melted, the ground is soft and no longer frozen. With a little over three weeks
to go until the 27th, our window of opportunity to get signs and flyers out is
still open, but narrowing. This weekend, the station will be open by 11:45 am
and will be open until 4:30.
I will be at the station along with Bob Bodenstein of Tri-State, and my son, who
at the age of 4, by his own choice, has sacrificed an afternoon of playing for
an afternoon at the station.
I encourage all available members to stop by the station and pick up fliers or
ground signs for placement. I hope to see you at Hawthorne Station on Saturday.
Jon
#5593 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Mar 5, 2010 8:19 pm
Subject: NEW UPDATE! Sign hanging back on for Saturday March 6th!!
Good Evening VRA and Tri-State members! I just received a call from KC telling me
that the sign company came through and will deliver the signs to the station tomorrow
morning. This means the sign hanging is back on for tomorrow morning. As before the
station will be opened at 9 and everyone is encouraged to come pick up signs. The
ticket sales are starting to pick up, so this could mean the difference between
almost selling out, and completely selling the train out.
If anyone who can't make it tomorrow can instead pick up signs on Sunday, please let
us know and we'll make arrangements to have the station open on Sunday morning.
Hope to see you all there tomorrow!
Jon
#5594 From: Mike O
Date: Sat Mar 6, 2010 7:06 pm
Subject: Easter Bunny website photos and Blog back online
The Easter Bunny website photos and Blog are now back on line.
See http://www.easterbunnytrain.com/
Mike O'Toole
VRA Webmaster
#5602 From: "Jon"
Date: Mon Mar 15, 2010 11:29 am
Subject: Crew Positions remaining for the Easter Bunny train
Everyone,
These are the crew needs for both trips. If anyone would like to fill these
positions, or know someone who would like to help out, please have them contact
me either via my email @... or my cell 973-508-7568. I've also
given this list to Tri-State.
Saturday:
1 Easter Bunny
2 Easter Bunny assistants
1 Character
1-2 Platform attendants. Not a specific number here, but 6-7 is a good number to
have, we have 5 so far.
Sunday:
1 Easter Bunny
2 Easter Bunny assistants
1 Character
1-2 Platform attendants.
#5607 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Mar 15, 2010 5:50 pm
Subject: Eastrail this Saturday
Everyone,
The annual Eastrail program that the URHS runs each year is this Saturday and
I would encourage anyone who would like to have a nice day out watching slides
of assorted railroad subjects to come and support the effort. One of the shows
will be on Railfanning in the 1970's that I have put together from Joe Weber's
collection of slides. I will be presenting the show on behalf of the Joseph K.
Weber Library and promoting it and us to the group. To find out more about the
day you can visit http://www.urhs.org/other_pages/eastrail.html
Thanks,
KC
#5613 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Mar 16, 2010 8:29 pm
Subject: Easter Bunny Train Crew
Hello VRA and Tri-State members,
I hope everyone is enjoying this nice change in the weather and everyone is drying out.
The crew sheet is inching closer to being full. However, there are several key positions
to be filled out.
1 Easter bunny for both days
1 Easter bunny assistant for Sunday
1 character for both days
1 character assistant for Sunday
Anyone who would like to fill that position, or knows someone that can fill these positions,
please contact me via my personal email, @... or my cell.
Thank you,
Jon Berkemeyer
#5614 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Mar 18, 2010 2:35 pm
Subject: Easter signs
Hello VRA and Tri-State members,
This coming weekend will be the final opportunity for us to reach our potential
customers. Unfortunately, with the extreme weather we've experienced in the last
couple weeks many of our roadside signs and banners have been damaged or lost.
We have some remaining at the Hawthorne Station which need to go out. The station
will be open tonight from 6pm-9m and Saturday from 12pm-4pm. Please come and
pick up a few signs if you can.
Also, you do see a banner or sign that has been damaged, you can contact us at
this email address to let us know so that someone may go out to repair/replace
it.
In closing, I would ask that any Tri-Staters not on the Yahoo Group be forwarded
this message so they can be aware of our efforts. There is still time to make
this trip very successful so we can restore the F3 and move the Hawthorne
Station in the coming weeks.
Sincerely,
Charles Smith
#5615 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Mar 18, 2010 10:07 pm
Subject: Saturday Staffing Hawthorne Station
Hello VRA and Tri-State Members,
We are entering the home stretch of our Easter Bunny Train prep. This Saturday
is a very active day for the VRA with several different events. K.C. is presenting
at East Rail, Justin, Carolyn and I are selling models from the JK Weber collection
at the Black River Train show, plus Charles and Tom Scheffer of Tri-State will be
placing more signs in various towns.
This means we need volunteers to staff the Hawthorne Station for ticket sales and
to answer the phones. If anyone can be at the station between 12pm and 4pm on Saturday,
please let us know as soon as possible and we'll make arrangments for the station to
be open. Ticket sales are very strong, and not having the station open on Saturday will
hurt our momentum. Again, if you can help out, please let us know.
Thanks
Jon
#5616 From: Mark
Date: Fri Mar 19, 2010 4:37 am
Subject: Re: Easter Bunny Train Crew
Mike Del Vecchio can be the Easter Bunny on Saturday. Still pursuing some open leads.
Mark
----- Original Message -----
From: VRA Inc
Date: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 8:30 pm
Subject: [ilroaders] Easter Bunny Train Crew
To: VRA , Tri-StateChapter@yahoogroups.com
> Hello VRA and Tri-State members,
>
> I hope everyone is enjoying this nice change in the weather and
> everyone is drying out.
>
> The crew sheet is inching closer to being full. However, there
> are several key positions to be filled out.
> 1 Easter bunny for both days
> 1 Easter bunny assistant for Sunday
> 1 character for both days
> 1 character assistant for Sunday
>
> Anyone who would like to fill that position, or knows someone
> that can fill these positions, please contact me via my personal
> email, @... or my cell 973-508-7568.
>
> Thank you,
>
> Jon Berkemeyer
>
#5617 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Mar 19, 2010 9:22 am
Subject: Membership dues
Everyone,
In the last few days you probably received your dues renewal in the mail and I wanted
to remind you that if you would like to use your credit card, you can renew your dues
on line by following this link http://www.vratrips.org/involved.html
Thanks,
KC
#5618 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Mar 22, 2010 2:22 pm
Subject: Volunteers needed in final push for Easter Bunny Train
Members of the VRA and Tri-State,
We're in the final days of preparation for the Easter Bunny trips. The next few
days are going to be extremely busy, not counting the trips themselves.
We are still in need of people who can play characters. We have a spot open for
the 4th character, and the need for an Easter Bunny on Saturday. if you or anyone
you know would like to play the part of a character, please let us know.
Also, we need help at the station tomorrow night, from 6-9pm for people who will
be calling to ask questions, and possibly ordering tickets via the phone. If you
can help out, again please contact us.
Jon
#5619 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Mar 22, 2010 7:43 pm
Subject: Re: Volunteers needed in final push for Easter Bunny Train
Everyone,
To follow up on what Jon wrote I wanted to let you all know that as of now the 12
noon and 2:30pm trains on Sunday are both sold out and the 9:30 train is not far
behind. We have sold 170 tickets so far today bringing our total sales up to 3519.
That means that we could end up selling both days of trains out, even with the slow
start we got with all the snow. It is because of the effort of a few dedicated people
and the help of a number of others that we have been able to reach this goal. We need
to make sure that we are fully staffed both days this weekend and the most important
positions left to fill are the 2 remaining characters. So please, if you or someone
you know can help let Jon know. After all, what would an Easter Bunny Train be
without an Easter Bunny.
Thanks,
KC
--- On Mon, 3/22/10, VRA Inc wrote:
From: VRA Inc
Subject: [ilroaders] Volunteers needed in final push for Easter Bunny Train
To: "VRA" ,
Date: Monday, March 22, 2010, 2:22 PM
#5620 From: Jonathan Berkemeyer
Date: Mon Mar 22, 2010 9:01 pm
Subject: Re: Volunteers needed in final push for Easter Bunny Train
All,
To further expand on what KC just posted about, we are now up to 200 tickets for
today. If this keeps up we'll be sold out by the end of the week. Considering the
pounding our main source of advertising (signs) took, this is really good news.
The station will be covered for our final Tuesday of ticket sales. I'd like to
thank Carolyn for volunteering to cover the station Tuesday night.
Any last minute additions to the crew are more than welcome to contact me via email
(personal or vra) or my cell phone which is .
Thanks,
Jon
From: VRA Inc
Sent: Mon, March 22, 2010 7:43:00 PM
Subject: Re: [ilroaders] Volunteers needed in final push for Easter Bunny Train
Everyone,
To follow up on what Jon wrote....
#5621 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Mar 22, 2010 9:55 pm
Subject: Update for crew help
Everyone,
Updates are flying fast and furious as we get closer to Saturday. We now have a 4th
Easter Bunny. Sue Leone of Tri-State will be our fourth Easter Bunny. Thank you Sue!
The last positions needed to be filled are the 4th Character for both days and the
assistant for that character on Sunday. Again, if anyone is interested in filling
these positions, or know of someone that would, please contact me so we can get the
jobs assigned. The crew instruction sheet will be completed tomorrow for both days
and posted both organizations Yahoo groups.
Again, my thanks to everyone who has volunteered.
Jon
#5622 From: Carolyn
Date: Tue Mar 23, 2010 6:10 pm
Subject: Re: Update for crew help
Hi All,
The Sunday trains out of Glen Rock are sold out and have been closed out on the
website! Still working on the Saturday trips but we're getting very close.
Looking for a few more volunteers for various characters, if you or anyone you
know can come help out as always it will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks again everyone and we'll see you this weekend!
Carolyn
--- VRA Inc wrote:
>
> Everyone,
>
> Updates are flying fast and furious as we get closer to Saturday. We now have
a 4th Easter Bunny. Sue Leone of Tri-State will be our fourth Easter Bunny.
Thank you Sue!
>
> The last positions needed to be filled are the 4th Character for both days and
the assistant for that character on Sunday. Again, if anyone is interested in
filling these positions, or know of someone that would, please contact me so we
can get the jobs assigned. The crew instruction sheet will be completed tomorrow
for both days and posted both organizations Yahoo groups.
>
> Again, my thanks to everyone who has volunteered.
> Jon
>
#5623 From: Gary R. Kazin
Date: Tue Mar 23, 2010 6:19 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Update for crew help gkazin
I'm on for Saturday, car hosting, but if you get desperate I suppose I can wear
a costume, at least for one trip. I know they get hot!
Gary R. Kazin
--- On Tue, 3/23/10, Carolyn wrote:
> Looking for a few more volunteers for various characters,
> if you or anyone you know can come help out as always it
> will be greatly appreciated.
#5626 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Mar 23, 2010 8:52 pm
Subject: Crew Handbooks now online
Everyone,
The crew handbooks went online to both the VRA and Tri-State yahoo groups at 8:45
this evening. Please download and review them for the trips coming up this weekend.
As you can see, the positions for Character
# 4 is still open, as well as that
character's assistant. and one Easter bunny assistant is still needed.
If you would like to print this, it is formatted for 8.5x14 (Legal) paper.
Thank you all for your time and assistance with this project. It means a lot to
both our organizations.
Jon
#5627 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Mar 25, 2010 7:17 pm
Subject: Easter Bunny Crew Handbooks uploaded
All,
The hand books are loaded to both groups file sections. Please down load and
review. The crew list is also part of the book. If you have any questions please
feel free to contact either Jon or KC.
Thank you again for everyone's efforts in putting these trips together.
Jon
#5628 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Mar 25, 2010 9:50 pm
Subject: Pick up help needed at Hawthorne Station
Everyone,
KC, myself and Charles have completed packing out all the supplies for Saturday and
Sunday's trips. The last piece of the puzzle is that we need 3 or 4 SUV's or pick
ups with caps or covers to help pick up the boxes and totes with our supplies.
If you can help out, please be at Hawthorne Station at 6:00pm.
Thank you all, and I'll see you in less than 48 hours for the train!
Jon
#5631 From: Gary R. Kazin
Date: Tue Apr 6, 2010 10:57 pm
Subject: Fw: NYSW List - Railfan.net Railway Station Historical Society E-Mail
List Photo rshsdepot-photo/rshsdepot-03-06-04/Hawthorne_NJ_RP.jpg
Hawthorne, when it was out in the sticks!
Gary R. Kazin
#5632 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Apr 7, 2010 9:22 am
Subject: EB Train wrap up meeting
Everyone,
Well we have once again run a very successful series of Easter Bunny trains and
as we have been doing the last few years we are planning a wrap up meeting for
Monday, April 12th to talk about the good and the bad and to go over the finances
with Tri-State. Anyone who has any input is invited to attend. We will start the
meeting at 6:30PM sharp so if you are going to want to get something to eat please
do so before that time. I am hoping the meeting will not last very long but you
never know, which is why I am calling for a 6:30 start. As always, we want to make
sure that we use the lessons learned to make the next trip even better.
Thanks,
KC
#5633 From: Craig
Date: Thu Apr 8, 2010 3:38 am
Subject: Work Session for the 40B
I am calling a work session for the 40B this Saturday mornin to try to finish the
chassis and get it ready for the body to go on. Start time 0830 hrs at 34 North
Road Kinnelon. Please respond with your availability. Craig
#5635 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Apr 8, 2010 5:39 pm
Subject: May 8th on CMSL
Everyone,
First we have had to postpone the proposed URHS trip on the CMSL on May 8th because
the railroad has been severely hampered by the bad weather this winter and early
spring and does not think it can get the required work done to the cars and engines
in time for the trip. We are working with the railroad to reschedule the trip for
a later date and will keep everyone informed when a date is chosen.
Because we had already set aside May 8th we decided to ask the CMSL if we could run
a motorcar trip over the line on that date and they have accepted. So if you have
a car and want to sign up please let me know or check the web site in a few days
and we should have the link up so that you can sign up and pay with your credit
card. If you would like to come down and enjoy the day but do not have a car we
will be putting together a few teams of flaggers to help us safely get over the
crossings.
The plan is to set the cars on at Tuckahoe and run all the way into Cape May where
we will have some time to shop and get some lunch before we head back to Tuckahoe.
Being that the next day is Mother's Day some people may choose to spend the weekend
in the area so that the Mom's in the group can ride the rails one day and enjoy a day
doing "Mom" type stuff the next day. The cost to sign up is $50 and it will be a
NARCOA event, so operators will need to be NARCOA qualified and carry insurance.
The line sees very little train traffic and we have been asked if we can check the
line before the day of the trip and clear any trees or other debris from the right
of way. I am thinking we can do that on Friday May 6th if we have a few volunteers
with cars to lend a hand.
I hope you can join us for a fun day out on the rails.
KC
#5636 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sat Apr 17, 2010 10:57 am
Subject: Board Meeting
Everyone,
We have a Board Meeting this Thursday night at 6:30 at Hawthorne Station.
These meetings are where the executive board discusses and votes on many of
the things the VRA does. Any member who would like to attend is welcome and
can give input but can not vote. If you are coming please bring a chair,
there are not many in the station.
Thanks,
KC
#5637 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Apr 22, 2010 10:39 am
Subject: CMSL Motorcar trip
Everyone,
If you own a motorcar and would like to join us on the Cape May Seashore Lines
run we are having on May 8th and you have not already signed up already, please
go to our web site and do so. We are trying to get an idea how many cars we will
have on the run and also how many cars will take part in the Friday May 7th brush
clearing run. Below is a copy of the announcement with the details.
Thanks,
KC
May 8, 2010 (Saturday) NJ
Cape May Seashore Line
The Volunteer Railroaders Association is pleased to sponsor a 1-day run over the
Cape May Seashore Line on May 8, 2010. Participants will travel approximately
50 round-trip miles between Tuckahoe, NJ and Cape May, NJ. We will be stopping
at convenient locations for bathroom breaks. Set on will be at Tuckahoe and run
all the way into Cape May where we will have some time to shop and get some lunch
before we head back to Tuckahoe. Being that the next day is Mother's Day some
people may choose to spend the weekend in the area so that the Mom's in the group
can ride the rails one day and enjoy a day doing "Mom" type stuff the next day.
The trip fee is $50.00 per car which includes the railroad's per car fee. There
is a 40 car limit. This is a NARCOA insured excursion, and all NARCOA rules will
apply. This is a non-mentoring run. EC for the trip is KC Smith. For trip details
contact the VRA at 80 Royal Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ 07506 Tel: (973) 238-0555 or
email to: @.... You can also sign up and pay for the trip with a major credit
card via our website at http://www.vratrips.org
#5639 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Apr 23, 2010 6:00 pm
Subject: Boonton work day Saturday April 24th
Everyone,
A bunch of people are getting together and going to Boonton Yard to do some work
on Saturday at about 9am and ending in the early afternoon. Some of the work that
needs to get done includes cutting down some trees and clearing some brush so the
fence can be built in a few weeks. We also have work that needs to be done to our
A5 (get the fuel tank and radiator out so they can be repaired or replaced, plus
work on the mower and sickle bar). In addition there is always work to do on the
various URHS equipment under restoration. If you have a few hours please stop
down and make sure you check in with someone as you enter the yard so we know who
is there.
Thanks,
KC
#5640 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Apr 25, 2010 4:04 pm
Subject: Craig
Everyone,
I was speaking with Shirley Hartman the other night and she told me that Craig
was in the hospital after being diagnosed with Diabetes. As many of us know Craig
has been battling flu like symptoms for a while along with an injury that would
not heal. He went to the doctors recently, with Shirley's "encouragement" and found
out that his sugar count was extremely high, so high in fact that the doctor put
him in the hospital. He is on the way to getting things under control and should
be just fine, although with a big change in diet. He is not up to visitors at this
time but when he is I will let you know. I would like to send him a get well package
when he gets home based on the diet that he is given, to help him on his way to
controlling the disease. I am sure that cards or letters wishing him well will
go a long way to making him feel better.
KC
#5642 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Apr 30, 2010 6:09 pm
Subject: Hawthorne Station Good News
Everyone,
I am very pleased to report that today we received our signed copy of the lease
for Hawthorne Station from the NYS&W. I would like to thank everyone who has
helped us get to this point and Nathan Fenno, the President of the NYSW, for working
with us to reach this goal. With the lease in hand we can now sign the contracts that
will see Hawthorne Station saved and preserved for generations to come.
As many of you know our late founding member, Joe Weber, worked very hard on the
station and would have loved to have been here to see us save the building.
Yesterday was Joe's 49th birthday and as Charles pointed out to me when he called
with the news that the lease had arrived, this news is a great birthday present for
Joe. Now lets get to work and make sure we can celebrate his 50th birthday in the
"old" Hawthorne Station in its "new" home.
KC
#5643 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sat May 1, 2010 9:30 pm
Subject: Station commitee meeting
Everyone,
On Monday night at 6pm we are having a meeting at the station to discuss the
details of the plans for Hawthorne Station and establish who will be working on
the different aspects of the project. If you are interested in being part of
the project please join us.
Thanks,
KC
#5645 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue May 11, 2010 10:31 pm
Subject: Newsletter
Everyone,
Attached is the May 2010 newsletter. I will be uploading a slightly different
version of this to the yahoo group tomorrow. I'll be adding the general meeting
notes to the tail end of this pdf. I can make PDF's at home, but I can't merge
them. I can do that at work.
As always, there will be printed copies at the meeting.
Jon
#5650 From: Jonathan Berkemeyer
Date: Wed May 12, 2010 2:17 pm
Subject: Re: Newsletter
I'm sorry I didn't credit the picture to KC, there wasn't a lot of room left over.
However, anyone on the trip knows it was him. And as everyone knows I just loved
being stopped on top of that bridge. I could have sat there for hours...
Jon
#5652 From: volunteerrailroaders@yahoogroups.com
Date: Thu May 13, 2010 7:26 pm
Subject: VRA Meeting, 5/20/2010, 7:30 pm volunteerrailroaders@yahoogroups.com
Reminder from: volunteerrailroaders Yahoo! Group
Title: VRA Meeting
Date: Thursday May 20, 2010
Time: 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Next reminder: The next reminder for this event will be sent in 6 days,
4 minutes.
Location: Saint Clements Church
Street: 271 Lafayette Avenue
City State Zip: Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Notes: See website for directions and map at
http://www.vratrips.org/contact.html
#meeting
#5653 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri May 14, 2010 12:22 am
Subject: Cape May Lines
This past weekend we had a nice weekend out on the CMSL, as you read in the news
letter. On Friday we ran the line to clear it of downed trees and such and we
did such a good job the railroad has asked if we would like to do the same on their
new line between Lakehurst and Woodmansie. Since this is something we seem to like
to do I told them I would see what I can do. I spoke to a few of the regulars and
they agreed to do the work. They need to get the work done by the middle of June
so I took a look at calendar and see that June 5th looks like a good day. So we
are looking for a few volunteers with chainsaws and such to help do the job.
This will be the first motorcar trip over the line, so volunteers will be taking
part in a little history. The railroad will be supplying lunch and fuel and as a
thank you will give us the chance to run a regular run over the line in the future.
If you can lend a hand on the 6th please let me know.
Thanks,
KC
#5654 From: Larry T
Date: Fri May 14, 2010 5:28 am
Subject: Re: Cape May Lines
hello KC and all
I should be able to help but Is that railroad in Lakehurst NJ and would anyone
know how long the railroad is and should I bring a motorcar there or is there
room for more on the mower.
Larry
#5657 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri May 14, 2010 9:23 am
Subject: Re: Cape May Lines
Larry and all,
The line is the one out of Lakehurst and it is about 12 miles long. The railroad
had a brush cutter run the line last fall so we should only encounter the type of
things we saw on the other line, downed trees, crossings to clean out and such.
The date I listed was the 6th but I should have listed June 5th, which is the
Saturday. If the weather is going to be bad we could move it to the 6th. Other
cars could be brought, especially if that means we will have more people to help.
KC
#5661 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon May 17, 2010 9:29 am
Subject: Re: Cape May Lines
Carolyn,
Lakehurst is the set on and I have just sent an e-mail to Tony to find out where.
Great idea about the hotel, I would be into that for sure.
KC
#5662 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue May 18, 2010 10:16 am
Subject: Meeting Reminder Thursday May 20th.
Everyone,
Just a reminder that we have our membership meeting this Thursday at St Clements
Church on Lafayette Ave in Hawthorne starting at 7pm. We have a number of important
items to talk about and would like your input on. The show will be the show I put
together from Joe Weber's slide collection for EastRail called "Northeast Rail
fanning in the 70's", plus members can bring up to 20 slides to show.
I hope to see you there,
KC
#5665 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon May 24, 2010 4:04 pm
Subject: CNJ brush cutting June 5th
Everyone,
I just heard from Tony at the Cape Lines Railroads confirming that we are all
set to go down and cut the brush on his new railroad between Lakehurst and Woodman-
sie on June 5th. We will meet him where the tracks meet Union Ave in Lakehurst at
about 8am on June 5th. Tony will be supplying us with gas and food for the day
as a thank you for helping him out. We are looking for volunteers to help out
and if possible bring chain saws, hedge and grass trimmers. Anyone volunteering
should bring gloves and wear long pants and work type boots. Bring along sun block,
insect repellent and water. We do not need a lot of motorcars so only the first
few people offering to bring cars will be accepted, and we already have 3 or 4
who have expressed an interest so please confirm that you can make it if you are
planning to bring a car. We can use all the volunteers we can get to help make
the work go easier, but we do want to know by Monday June 1st if you would like
to join us. We will probably be meeting at about 6am or so and car pool down for
anyone who wants to do that, the place or places will be announced to those who
sign up.
Thanks,
KC
#5666 From:
Date: Mon May 24, 2010 4:07 pm
Subject: Re: CNJ brush cutting June 5th
Steve, Justin and I will be coming and would be happy to tow and operate the a car
again. We are planning on staying in the area that night and driving home sunday.
:-)
Carolyn
#5667 From: Larry T
Date: Mon May 24, 2010 6:49 pm
Subject: Re: CNJ brush cutting June 5th
I am still good for that day and I will bring my motorcar if still ok or needed.
Larry Ten Hoeve
#5668 From: ken ciparis
Date: Mon May 24, 2010 8:17 pm
Subject: Re: CNJ brush cutting June 5th
Yes I will be there. Yes i know exactly where Union Ave is, and I have two working
chain saws and a pull saw. I would like to bring my open M-9, its easy on easy off.
Let me know if that's okay. Thanks
Ken
#5669 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu May 27, 2010 5:15 pm
Subject: Syracuse motorcar trip
Everyone,
If you are planning to attend this years motorcar trip on the NYSW out of Cortland
on July 24 and 25 and have not already signed up, I ask that you please do so.
We are trying to get a handle on how many people we will have attending. Please
remember that if you have not already taken your NORAC test that the NYSW requires,
we will be having a class on Friday night, July 23rd in Binghamton.
Also please remember to make your room reservations, most of us stay at the
Quality Inn, 188 Clinton Ave., Cortland, NY, Phone: (607) 756-5622.
Thanks,
KC
#5670 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu May 27, 2010 8:01 pm
Subject: Re: Syracuse motorcar trip
Everyone,
Chris and I was just looking and it appears that the Quality Inn is a bit more
expensive than some of the other hotels in the area. We are now looking at the
Hampton Inn, which for those who have been to Cortland before, is on the other
side of the highway from the Quality. It looks like advance purchases of the
rooms save you even more, so if you are planning on attending you might want to
take care of the room sooner rather than later. Also if you are going alone and
would like to share a room you should announce it to the group and see who else
is in the same situation.
Thanks,
KC
#5671 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Wed Jun 2, 2010 6:30 pm
Subject: VRA Blog is now on vratrips.org
VRA Blog is now on vratrips.org
Some of you may be saying: "Huh,,,,,thought we had one?" Well, we still do/did.
The 'new' VRA blog http://vratrips.org/blog/ I'll explain why. Part of the move
of the VRA's website to a new server was to enable new features, like hosting our
own blog.
A blog allows the general public to see select posts in a fancier format (color
pics!) than the 'News' section of the main website. Blogs also support 'notification'
- when we post something new anyone 'subscribed' is notified that new content was
published.
Over time more posts will be added, the posts from the old blog moved over and
hopefully additional authors will be added to create their own posts aka trip/work
day reports.
The Cape May speeder trip report is the top post there now......more to come!
Mike O'Toole
VRA Webmaster
#5672 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jun 4, 2010 4:24 pm
Subject: brush cutting tomorrow
Everyone,
A number of us are heading down to the new railroad being opened up by the folks
from the CMSL on Saturday (June 5th) to do some tree and brush clearing and we are
looking for someone else with a motorcar to join us. The line has some paved over
crossing so the car should not be too large but it should also have a few seats
available for those attending to sit on. We are meeting in Lakehurst at 8am where
the railroad crosses Union Ave. If anyone can make it please write back before 9pm
tonight (Friday).
Thanks,
KC
#5673 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Sun Jun 6, 2010 3:37 pm
Subject: Re: [Volunteer Railroaders Association] Spring 2010 Update
Posted to new blog at http://vratrips.org/blog/
as http://vratrips.org/blog/2010/06/06/spring-2010-update/
Mike O'Toole
VRA Webmaster
On 05/12/2010 09:01 AM, Carolyn wrote:
> [www.vratrips.org]
> Well it has been a while since we updated this blog! It was severely underused
in the past and I think we can change that.
>
> The VRA ran a very successful Motorcar trip this past weekend at the Cape May
Seasore Line. Thanks go to Tony and the CMSL employees! We spent Friday clearing
many downed trees and overgrowth along the roughly 27 miles of track from Tuckahoe
to Cape May allowing clear passage all the way through. On Saturday, 10 motorcars
made the trip in beautiful weather. The group left Tuckahoe around 10 am and arrived
in Cape May just before noon. We spent 2 hours in Cape May enjoying food, ice cream
and seeing the sights before making the trip back.
>
> This line is interesting in its variety of scenery; traveling through pine forests,
salt marshes, over bridges (including a swing bridge over the waterway) and ending
up just blocks from the beach. We'll make sure to get some pics posted soon!
>
> The other big project on the horizon for the VRA is the impeding move of the
NYS&W Hawthorne Station at 80 Royal Ave. Over the years, the intersection of Royal
Ave and Diamond Bridge has encroached upon the station and sadly the corner of
the roof now gets struck by turning trucks quite regularly. The paperwork and
approvals are all in order, so now we line up our contractors and hopefully break
ground in the next few weeks! As we get solid dates we will make sure to update
the blog accordingly.
>
> While actual construction and moving of the building needs to be done by insured
contractors, there are numerous things VRA members can be involved in. Keep checking
back here for updates and information!
>
> We have some more motorcar runs coming up over the summer and fall months:
> Saturday, August 14, 2010: Tentative date for the Stourbridge Line
> September 11 & 12, 2010: NYS&W Utica Branch and Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley
> October 2 & 3, 2010: MYS&W Southern Division out of Riverdale NJ
>
> Check back soon for pics from Cape May and further updates!!
>
> --
> Posted By Carolyn at 5/12/2010 07:39:00 AM
#5674 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Jun 8, 2010 7:38 pm
Subject: Hawthorne Station Ground Breaking June 26th 10am
Everyone,
As you will see in the e-mail from the Economic Development Chairman in Hawthorne
below we have set a date for the ground breaking at the station, set for Saturday
June 26th and the time will be 10am. You will also see that the town is behind our
efforts and is trying to get as many people to attend as possible from town
government and the community.
I would like to show them how dedicated we are to this project and so would
like see as many VRA members there as possible and would like to make sure that
we have everything we need to put on a good and informative event. We will need
to do a good amount of advanced publicity to make sure that not only the press
but also the general public is there as well. Below is a list of everything I
can think of that we need to do and I am looking for someone to take the lead
along with volunteers to make those things happen. Those items listed with a
name(s) have people who previously volunteered to help but more names can be
added. Please let me know if you can help.
1. Advanced publicity and media contacts - Andrea and KC
2. Mark out the location of where the station will be moved - Open
3. Make up and updated Hawthorne Station flier to be handed out - Open
4. Clean the station and the grounds around the building - Open
5. Set up refreshments and anything else that will attract people and help them
enjoy the time they spend there - Open
6. Work with town to make sure everything is set up on their end - KC
7. Set up and run a table where people can buy a paver to be placed in the park
where the station currently stands - Open
This event will be that kick off of the construction phase of the project that we
have spent years putting together, please try and be part of the day if you can.
Thanks
K.C.
EDC members:
KC Smith, President of the Volunteer Railroaders Association, has set the ground
breaking ceremony for the train station move for June 26th (see below). I spoke
with KC on Monday regarding the specifics of the groundbreaking ceremony. KC plans
to issue a press release and will invite borough officials, the general public,
etc. The time will be firmed up but I expect it will be about 10 or 11 am. On
behalf of the EDC I will extend an offer to help the VRA with the groundbreaking
ceremony - so we may be called upon to help. I will check with KC to see if we
should meet at our June 16th EDC meeting. Please support the VRA and plan to
attend the ceremony as representatives of the Economic Development Committee.
The VRA and EDC have been mutually supporting each other for quite some time and
as background, a brief recap of our involvement with the VRA follows:
The EDC has worked closely with the VRA and supported their project as a coordinated
effort in conjunction with our Downtown Revitalization design and grant application.
During 2009 the VRA and EDC met numerous times to determine how we could provide
support to the VRA; mayor Goldberg wrote to the president of the Susquehanna
expressing the borough's support of the station move and restoration; borough attorney
Michael Pasquale at our request reviewed the lease agreement to ensure it was in the
borough's best interest; and John Lane met with VRA architect, reviewed the station
plans, and expedited the VRA building permits. We have agreed to support and help
coordinate VRA fund raising activities including a potential train ride excursion
next year jointly sponsored by the VRA and EDC. The VRA has agreed to coordinate
the design and motif of the station plaza pavers and lighting with the Downtown
Revitalization plans. The VRA helped us with our grant application by providing
a key letter of support to NJ DOT and the fact that in our grant application it
explicitly states that the station move and restoration was self funded by the
VRA. The VRA will create a historical area inside the station that will include
Hawthorne memorabilia and the VRA will periodically open the station for borough
sponsored events as it has done in the past. All in all, a great cooperation
story for both of us!
Thanks, Carl Schmidt
#5675 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Jun 8, 2010 8:00 pm
Subject: Brush cutting report: NEW JERSEY SEASHORE LINES - Southern Division
Everyone,
I wanted to give everyone an update on the brush cutting we did on the (ex-CNJ)
New Jersey Seashore Lines Southern Division this past Saturday. The day was hot
and sticky but went well. We did not have too many trees down and in fact had
more problems getting through the sand than anything else. At one point I thought
we may have made a wrong turn and ended up in the Mojave Dessert...lol. The line
runs through mostly pine forest but does go through a few towns. It was there
that we encountered a couple of paved over crossings, which were not a problem
at all, we just man handled the cars and got them over. We made it about 10 miles
before encountering a major problem, someone stole about 50 feet of rail. After
trying to work out a way to get across the gap, using trees to act as rails, we
decided the effort was not worth it and just turn the cars and ran back. We were
done around 5pm and all went home hot and tired.
I want to thank Dave C., Carolyn, Justin, Steve G. and Ken C. from the VRA and
Tony, Paul and Ron from the NJSL for helping and making the day enjoyable. I also
want to thank Tony and Paul for buying the crew lunch. We have created a great
working relationship with the railroad and they have already invited us to run a
motorcar trip over the line in the future. We will be looking at available dates
and will announce the trip when everything is finalized. Our plan is to combine
a run over the Cape May line and the Southern division into a full weekend of
running.
I know some pictures were taken of our day out on the rails and hope they will
be posted to our Yahoo group in the coming days.
KC
#5676 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Wed Jun 9, 2010 8:35 am
Subject: Re: Brush cutting report: NEW JERSEY SEASHORE LINES - Southern Division
I can't get to the Yahoo! group from work, but hopefully this works :-) If not
I will upload them this evening.
Carolyn
5 of 5 Photo(s)
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IMG_3351.JPG
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IMG_3340.JPG
IMG_3340.JPG
#5677 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Wed Jun 9, 2010 8:39 am
Subject: Re: Brush cutting report: NEW JERSEY SEASHORE LINES - Southern Division
More Pictures!
5 of 5 Photo(s)
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IMG_3361.JPG
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IMG_3358.JPG
#5678 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Wed Jun 9, 2010 9:03 am
Subject: Re: Brush cutting report: NEW JERSEY SEASHORE LINES - Southern Division
I have gotten a number of rejections that this message is too large. I will
upload to the group later, sorry for the multiple emails.
Carolyn
#5684 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jun 11, 2010 10:33 am
Subject: Ground Breaking
Everyone,
We have re-scheduled the date of the ground breaking for the work being done at
the station to Monday June 28th at 6pm. On Monday June 14th I am looking to get
anyone who is interested in helping at the open house to come down to the station
at about 6:30pm so we can set up the details and assign who will take care of each
aspect. This is the single biggest project we have ever undertaken and can use
all the help we can to make it happen.
As has been announced we need to clean and prepare the station and the area right
around it so that it looks good for the media and public that we hope to have there.
If you can help with that work please let Jon know.
Thanks,
KC
#5688 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jun 11, 2010 2:16 pm
Subject: Work Party at Hawthorne Station 6/12/10
Everyone,
As you know there will be a work party tomorrow to prep the station for the ground
breaking ceremony later this month. The immediate needs are to clean up the inside
of the station, and get the outside grounds cleaned up. Luckily, we are a neat
bunch and the inside doesn't need a lot of work, mostly sweeping and dusting,
some organizing.
Outside will require weed whacking and clearing. If anyone can bring rakes that
would be a big help. I've secured a lawnmower and weed whacker for the taller
grass. I would recommend work gloves for any outside work.
I'm planning on being at the station at 9:30am and would like to start at 10:00am.
We should be finished by mid afternoon. Again, if you are interested in helping,
please come down and lend a hand. I can be reached on my cell, or via email tonight
if you have any questions.
Jon
#5689 From: "Jon"
Date: Sat Jun 12, 2010 2:27 pm
Subject: Work Party Report 6/12/10
Everyone,
The work party consisting of Chris Vitz, Steve Gerritsen, Charles Smith and I
cleared the weeds and long grass on the station grounds today. All the long
grass within the perimeter of the station's new footprint was cut by Steve.
Meanwhile Chris, Charles and I cleared out the weeds around the station. Chris
and Charles staked out the station's new footprint using site plans and
measurements of the station. There are spikes in the ground along with wooden
poles marking the new foundation's location.
It was an extremely productive morning and the site looks a lot better. With the
marker poles in place, it is now much easier to visualize the station's new
location.
I'd like to thank Steve for the use of his power equipment, Chris for his
engineering expertise, and Charles for his ceaseless dedication to the VRA's
projects. Reality is starting to settle in, and the station move is getting
closer and closer.
#5691 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jun 18, 2010 12:00 pm
Subject: Ground Breaking press release
Everyone,
As you probably know we are having the groundbreaking for the station move
on Monday July 28th at 6pm and to help promote it we have sent the attached press
release and photo to Hawthorne Press, Glen Rock and Hawthorne Gazzette's, Ridgewood
News, Star Ledger, The Record and Herald, The Hawthorne Chamber of Commerce, Main
street, Channel 77 and news channel 12. If anyone has any web sites or publications
that might publish it please send it out to them.
We will need some help getting the Interior of the station ready and we are are
looking at Tuesday night after work to do it, if you can make it that day please
let me know. Then on the 28th we would like to have as many VRA members present
as we can, so please try and make it to the station. Anyone who can make it before
the event starts to help set up is encouraged to do so.
Thanks,
K.C.
1 of 1 Photo(s)
Hawthorne
Hawthorne
1 of 1 File(s)
Hawthorne
#5695 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Fri Jun 18, 2010 6:33 pm
Subject: Re: Ground Breaking
Posted to the VRA website as well.
Picture was improved a bit: on the left - glare from cars parked near track dulled
out, red objects on platform removed and streetlamp shadow on pavement removed. On
the right - power lines removed, white truck removed, lighter details of building
signs and bench removed, glare from two black cars dulled, person behind them
removed. Picture lightened slightly to show more under eave detail.
Mike
On 06/11/2010 10:33 AM, VRA Inc wrote:
> Everyone,
>
> We have re-scheduled the date of the ground breaking for the work being done
at the station to Monday June 28th at 6pm. On Monday June 14th I am looking to
get anyone who is interested in helping at the open house to come down to the
station at about 6:30pm so we can set up the details and assign who will take
care of each aspect. This is the single biggest project we have ever undertaken
and can use all the help we can to make it happen.
>
> As has been announced we need to clean and prepare the station and the area
right around it so that it looks good for the media and public that we hope to
have there. If you can help with that work please let Jon know.
>
> Thanks,
> KC
>
#5698 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Jun 20, 2010 9:28 am
Subject: Ground Breaking update
Everyone,
It was pointed out to me yesterday that I accidentally listed the groundbreaking
date as July 28th in one of my posts late last week. The date for the groundbreaking
is June 28th at 6pm. We will be working at the station on Tuesday June 22nd starting
at about 5:30 to clean up and prepare the inside of the station and ask that if you
have some time you come down and lend a hand.
I hope to see as many VRA members on June 28th as possible.
KC
#5703 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Sun Jun 27, 2010 12:52 am
Subject: Re: Groundbreaking Monday June 28th 6pm
Posted to the VRA's
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Volunteer-Railroaders-Association/38523424986
Please share with your friends! (click VRA + other to see post)
and
Twitter http://twitter.com/vratrips Please ReTweet!!!
Twitter is now echo'd to the VRA website main page.
Mike O'Toole
VRA Webmaster
On 06/26/2010 04:47 PM, VRA Inc wrote:
> Just a reminder that we will be having the groundbreaking for the new location
of Hawthorne Station on Monday night, June 28th, at 6pm and we are hoping to have
as many VRA members as possible present to be part of this historic event. We
have been talking about moving the station since 1993 and after 17 years we are
about to reach that goal. Kids and families are welcome to attend.
>
> I hope to see you all then,
> KC
>
#5707 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jul 2, 2010 4:49 pm
Subject: Board Meeting July 15th
Everyone,
Just an early reminder that we have a board meeting scheduled for July 15th at
6pm at the station. Project chairman and officers should have a report ready to
present at the meeting. As usual if you are going to be getting something to eat
for the meeting, please do so before 6 so we can start on time.
All regular members are invited to attend and will given the chance to speak
if they wish. These meeting generally last 2 or 3 hours and are where the board
talks about and decides on projects and other things we are working on.
Thanks,
KC
#5708 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Thu Jul 8, 2010 2:13 pm
Subject: Fwd: Google Alert - "Volunteer Railroaders Association"
FYI: Station move groundbreaking story and pictures.
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Google Alert - "Volunteer Railroaders Association"
Date: Thu, 08 Jul 2010 05:38:45 +0000
From: Google Alerts
News 1 new result for "Volunteer Railroaders Association"
Station to move to new home NorthJersey.com
The Volunteer Railroaders Association (VRA) held a two-hour celebration for the
groundbreaking, featuring displays of railroad motor cars and an interactive ...
This as-it-happens Google Alert is brought to you by Google
#5710 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Jul 9, 2010 2:29 pm
Subject: Syracuse MC Trip
Everyone,
If you are planning on bringing a car on the motorcar trip on the Syracuse line
of the NYSW on July 24th and 25th and have not already signed up please do so as
soon as you can. We are trying to set up all the details of the trip and it is a
big help to have everyone signed up in advance. Also please remember, if you need
to take the NORAC class you will need to be at the class in Binghamton on Friday
July 23rd at 5:30PM. Anyone who has taken a class within the last 3 years is not
required to take the class.
Thanks,
KC
#5714 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Jul 12, 2010 1:21 pm
Subject: Hawthorne station work begins.. your help is now needed.
Everyone,
This morning we met with the railroad, the mason and the building mover and we
are all set to go. Pending any last minute delays the actual work will begin on
Tuesday morning, yes that is tomorrow.
With this in mind I am asking for volunteers who can be at the station to watch
over what is being done, contact me if there are any issues and document the work
in pictures. What we need is 1 person per day over the next few weeks to volunteer.
If we get 5 or 6 volunteers no one will have to do it more than twice. I know this
is tough for those who work but if you are retired, not working or would like to
take a few days vacation to help out please let me know.
We are standing at the threshold of our long time goal to get the station moved
and saved, now is the time we need to step forward and help make it happen.
Thanks,
KC
#5717 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Jul 13, 2010 6:41 pm
Subject: station work and board meeting
Everyone,
First the work started at the station today and although we got a late start
due to waiting on a few trains and then got cut short due to the rain, we made a
lot of progress. We are still looking for a few people who can help at the station
to be there during the hours the crews are working. If you can spend a few hours
or all day please let me know. The day starts at 7am and can run through as long
as the contractor wants to work. If we get a number of people to help no one will
have to do too much. Please let me know if you can volunteer some time.
Second this is we have our board meeting scheduled for Thursday night at the
station. The meeting is set to start at 6pm and board members and committee
chairman should plan to attend. Members are always welcome at these meetings as
well. With the work going on at the station getting in and out of the building
could be a bit of a challenge, so be prepared. Chairs are a premium at the station
so if you are coming bring one.
The last thing is that we need to start to clean out the station in preparation for
the move. I would like to call a work party for this Saturday at the station start-
ing at 10 am. If you have some time to come down and help it would be appreciated.
Thanks,
KC
#5720 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Jul 18, 2010 9:45 pm
Subject: Station progress and help wanted
Everyone,
If you have not been to the station in the last few days you are missing history
happening. So far the hole is dug and the footings and walls are starting to go
in, also the building mover has begun his work of preparing the old foundation to
accept the steel beams he needs to but under it. Also on Saturday a bunch of us
started cleaning out the station in preparation for the move and thanks to Andrea
Rebner we had some place (her garage) to put some stuff. But we have more to go
and since Andreas garage has all its going to take, Carol asked her Mom (who also
lives in Hawthorne) if we could use the attic space over her garage and she has
agreed. So I am proposing that on Monday and maybe even Tuesday night this week
we move the rest of the stuff out of the station so that part of our work is done.
If you are around and can lend a hand for an hour or so, please come by the station
either or both nights at around 6 or so and help out.
We are also still in need of a few people (one each day) to be at the station
during the day when the work is going on to represent the VRA and be able to reach
out to myself in case any questions or problems arise. If you spend some time
there during the day please let me know and be part of history.
Thanks,
KC
#5723 From: Gary R. Kazin
Date: Thu Jul 22, 2010 7:31 am
Subject: NJ - Work starts at railroad station (Hawthorne)
Work starts at railroad station
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Last updated: Thursday July 22, 2010, 1:15 AM
BY ERIN PATRICIA GRIFFITHS
The Gazette (Hawthorne Edition)
STAFF WRITER
Just two weeks after a groundbreaking ceremony was held June 28 to kickoff the
moving and restoration of Hawthorne's railroad station, construction has
officially begun.
Workers started digging and preparing for the foundation to be poured at the new
location for the railroad station, which is located at the corner of the Diamond
Bridge Avenue and Royal Avenue, on July 13.
The borough station, which has been in the same location for more than 100
years, is being moved approximately 75 feet west of the corner of Royal Avenue
and Diamond Bridge Avenue due to safety concerns. The building has been struck
by large trucks attempting to make a turn, and is at risk for further damage to
the roof if it is not moved further from the intersection.
The building is currently leased by the Volunteer Railroaders Association (VRA),
a non-profit railroad preservation group that started in 1993, from the New
York, Susquehanna & Western Railway (NYS&W). The VRA is also looking to get the
building put on the state historic register, as well as restore and move it.
The station is a one-story building with two rooms. It was formerly a ticket
office for commuters, until 1996.
In addition to preparing the foundation, workers will be simultaneously
trenching the side of the building and installing steel beams to prepare the
building.
"These beams will stay in place and serve as a strengthening for the building
once it is on the new foundation," said VRA Secretary Carolyn Hoffman.
Hoffman said this work will be completed over the next 10 days. The VRA expects
the building will be ready for moving after Aug. 1.
After the building itself has been moved, workers will begin stripping, sealing
and repainting wood on the siding and will complete roof repairs.
The project is also set to include a small pocket park in the area where the
building currently stands, the space between Diamond Bridge Avenue and the new
location. A pathway leading to the new location for the station will be
composed of bricks.
In addition to the move, the station will also be renovated to include a library
with museum pieces. It will be home to the Joseph K. Weber Memorial Railroad
Library and will contain historical pieces from both the borough as well as the
NYS&W. The library is named in honor of VRA founding member Joseph K. Weber,
who passed away in 2007.
The VRA hopes to have the move and restoration completed for a grand opening on
April 29, 2011, which would have been Weber's 50th birthday.
While construction is being done at the building, the VRA is focusing on
fund-raising to support the repairs and reconstruction.
The group is raising money to fund the project through the sale of personalized
paver bricks.
"We are probably going to need to seek out some grants, major donations and
maybe even loans to help us complete the work we would like to do before winter
sets in," said Hoffman.
All the money for the project is raised through the VRA's Easter Bunny and Santa
train rides and running motor cars up and down the railroad line for rides.
Residents can reserve a personalized paver brick by calling the station at
973-238-0555 or e-mailing vratrips@.... The VRA website can be accessed
at vratrips.org. For more information about the Hawthorne station effort, visit
www.hawthornestation.info.
E-mail: griffithse@...
http://www.northjersey.com/community/98989824_Work_starts_at_railroad_station_.html
Gary R. Kazin
DL&W Milepost R35.7
Rockaway, New Jersey
#5724 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Jul 27, 2010 8:38 pm
Subject: Hawthorne station update
Everyone,
I am very pleased to report that the work to move Hawthorne Station is progressing
quite nicely. I want to thank Justin for the countless hours he has spent at the
station when I was not able to be there due to work, yes sometimes I have to do
that. Also I want to thank Charles, Jon, Matt and Paul for helping out as well.
As of today all of the foundation is in and is now waiting to dry before the
next step can be taken. By next week the floor should be poured and a few weeks
after that the building mover can begin the delicate task of moving the station
to her new home.
We still need to get more stuff out of the station and do some other work in
preparation for the move so I would like to call for a work day this Saturday
July 31st at 10am. If you have a few hours to lend a hand please come on down.
While you are there you can see all the work that has been done. To give you a
taste of the progress I am attaching a few pictures.
KC
3 of 3 Photo(s)
work begins.JPG
work begins.JPG
first shovel.JPG
first shovel.JPG
block is laid.JPG
block is laid.JPG
#5726 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Wed Jul 28, 2010 9:25 am
Subject: August Newsletter
Hello all!
Its newsletter time once again. Obviously, with the construction on the station
in progress there will be a comprehensive report on that, but we still need more
articles! Committee Chairs, please send at least a small write up of what has
been going on with your projects and any pictures you may have. Any and all pictures
are welcome, whether they be of the station, motorcar trips, or any VRA happenings.
Please send everything to me as soon as possible so that we can get the Digest out!
Our quarterly Membership Meeting will be August 19th at St. Clements Church.
Entertainment is needed as usual so if you have anything you'd like to show
please feel free to let us know!
Pictures and articles can be sent to me at
Thank you!
Carolyn Hoffman
#5730 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Aug 12, 2010 9:44 pm
Subject: Station work party August 14th
Everyone,
We have a few more items to get out of the station before the move and one of
them is quite heavy, the caboose stave. In addition we need to get the book cases
out. Fortunately Chris Abbood has offered his trailer and the garage at his Mom's
house in Hawthorne to store the stuff for a few weeks. So this Saturday, August
14th at 10am we need a few volunteers to come to the station and help make the
move. If you can make it please let me know.
Thanks,
KC
#5732 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Aug 15, 2010 9:18 am
Subject: newsletter and meeting announcent
Everyone,
Attached is a copy of this quarters newsletter plus I have placed a copy in the
files section of our Yahoo group.
Also as a reminder we have our next meeting on Thursday night starting promptly
at 7:00 PM and encourage everyone to come down. On your way you should stop by the
station and see all the work that has been and continues to be done. By the way
as an update the building mover now tells me that the move should take place
somewhere around September 1st. We will be updating everyone as the exact date
is determined.
See you Thursday night,
KC
#5733 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Aug 15, 2010 9:45 pm
Subject: Picnic Sunday August 22nd
Everyone,
The following announcement was not sent to our editor and so did not make the
newsletter but I wanted to make sure you all got it, it is one of those purely
fun things we get to do.
On Sunday August 22nd between 11:30am and 4pm you and your families are all
invited to a picnic being held on the grounds of the Whippany Railway Museum and
the Morristown and Erie Railway on Route 10 in Whippany NJ. This picnic has been
run for many years by the Tri-State Chapter NRHS, CNJ Historical Society and others
as a way for their members to spend a day out enjoying each other company. This
year the VRA has been invited to attend and we were very honored to accept that
invitation. All VRA members and their families are invited to attend at a cost
of only $5.00 per person.
We need to give the folks organizing the event an estimated count of how many
people we expect to come. So if you can make it I ask you to please respond to
this e-mail by Wednesday by contacting me directly at @... and let me know how
many people will be joining you. We need to bring our own chairs and tables if
you would like. The only work for the day should be volunteering to help set up
and breakdown and maybe lend a hand with the food. If you would like to bring
something small to eat to share with everyone please do, but don't bring too much
so we don't have to many leftovers.
To get to Whippany simply get to Route 10 in Whippany and look for Troy Hills
Road and make a U-turn if going East and then look for the museum on your right.
If coming West after you pass Try Hills Road start looking for the museum on your
right.
Again please let me know by Wednesday if you are coming and how many people
will join you and bring $5 per person and something to sit on.
I hope to see you all then,
KC
#5734 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Sun Aug 15, 2010 9:48 pm
Subject: VRA on the web we've come a long way since 1998
VRA on the web
we've come a long way since 1998!
#5735 From: Charles Smith
Date: Sun Aug 15, 2010 11:57 pm
Subject: Re: Picnic Sunday August 22nd
Good evening VRA,
Sorry for the late posting, It was my oversight that it didn't get sent sooner.
Just to add to what KC said, by my count this was be the first VRA picnic since
our outing with the M&NJ folks in 2002. Those events on the M&NJ were very popular
and I hope we are able to make this outing with Tri-State, the CNJ Veterans
Association and the Sussex County Railroad Club a yearly event. The admission is
only $5 which defrays the cost of food. We are also asked to bring a desert item
(cookies, pie, something simple) to share.
2010 is shaping up to be a great year for railroad preservation. You've all seen
the remarkable progress on our own Hawthorne Station. TriState is likewise making
real headway with the restoration of their F-3. Here is a link to a recent photograph
of the Lackawanna 663:
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b356//Tri-StateF3Scranton8-11-2010036edit.jpg
As you recall, we ran the 2010 Easter Bunny trains in conjunction with Tri-State.
The money we raised together along with a separate donation from the VRA helped
fund this meticulous restoration.
Likewise, the good folks at the Whippany Railway Museum have concluded a long
anticipated project - the restoration of CNJ Blue Comet passenger car Jersey
Coast. Only yesterday the finishing touches were put on the chairs which were
then moved into the car. Here is are two photos from WRM:
Exterior - http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b356//IMG_3544.jpg
Interior - http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b356//IMG_3586.jpg
The car will make its public debut on their September 12th caboose hops at the
museum. It's not usually open the public during regular museum hours but... if we
ask nicely maybe we can get a tour. I make no promises of same but it certainly
will be neat just to see the completed car as she now sits at WRM.
In closing, we did initially hope to have a caboose hop train available for us
at the picnic. Unfortunately, due to some recent happens at the M&E, they are not
able to provide a crew for the day. Maybe in future years we could make that happen.
Either way I look forward to seeing many members of the VRA there for an enjoyable
afternoon.
Sincerely,
Charles Smith
#5737 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Tue Aug 17, 2010 11:41 pm
Subject: Re: VRA newsletter
All,
VRA Newsletter (August 2010 \u2014 Volume 15 Issue 3) posted to VRA website as multiple
blog postings. No PDF to open :-)
See "DIGEST newsletter" box on right at http://www.vratrips.org/
Mike O'Toole
VRA webmaster
On 08/15/2010 09:18 AM, VRA Inc wrote:
>
> Everyone,
>
> Attached is a copy of this quarters newsletter plus I have placed a copy in
the files section of our Yahoo group.
>
#5739 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Aug 19, 2010 9:11 am
Subject: Picnic Sunday
Everyone,
The other day I wrote and told you about the picnic our group has been invited
to attend this Sunday, August 22nd at the Whippany Railway Museum between 11:30
and 4 PM. To date I have only heard from a handful of people saying they can
come and we need to give the folks putting this together a count tonight.
So if you are planning on coming please write me back. Please remember that
your family is invited as well and it costs $5 per person plus they are asking
for you to bring some kind of dessert.
Thanks,
KC
PS, I hope to see you at tonight's membership meeting at St Clements Church,
start time is 7PM.
#5742 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Aug 24, 2010 10:44 am
Subject: 40B work night Wednesday August 25th
Everyone,
We are planning a work night on the 40B at Craig's house tomorrow night,
Wednesday August 25th starting at 6pm. The gentleman who sold us the car is back
east (from Minnesota) and would like to see the progress we have made so we will
have a visitor as well. If the weather is bad we will probably not work but will
still show the car to Terry.
Hope to see you there,
KC
#5743 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Aug 24, 2010 9:33 pm
Subject: Hawthorne Station move
Everyone,
I met with the company that is moving station today and was told that as long
as they do not run into any major problems the station is on schedule to be moved
around September 1st. Knowing that there are many people who would like to see
the station being moved I asked if it was possible to make the move on a Saturday.
I am happy to report that they agreed and again as long as they do not run into
any major problems the move will take place on Saturday September 4th. If
anything changes I will let you all know.
While I was there today I took some pictures of the progress being made and have
attached them to this e-mail. In the pictures you will see that the steel beam
that run the length of the building on the railroad side is in place. The next
step is to get the beam in that will run in the middle of the station from the
Royal Ave side to the beam on the track side. When that is done the Royal Ave
side beam will be put in and then the 2 end beams. This will all hopefully be
done by the end of this week, so if you are by the station stop by and check out
the progress. The other photo is of Larry DiBello who's company is doing the
move enjoying a break in front of his work.
KC
3 of 3 Photo(s)
South West Side.JPG
North West Side.JPG
Larry.JPG
#5744 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Aug 25, 2010 9:14 am
Subject: HVAC contractor needed
Everyone,
We are in need of a HVAC contractor who can disconnect out AC unit at the
station and the reconnect it once the station is moved. If anyone knows of someone
who is in that business and is willing to do the job at little to no cost please
let me know. We are going to need to get the job done this week if at all possible,
so time is a factor.
Thanks,
KC
#5745 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Aug 25, 2010 11:07 pm
Subject: Fw: Hawthorne Station move
Everyone,
I heard the pictures did not come through yesterday, so I am sending this out again.
I met with the company that is moving station today and was told that as
long as they do not run into any major problems the station is on schedule to be
moved around September 1st. Knowing that there are many people who would like to
see the station being moved I asked if it was possible to make the move on a
Saturday. I am happy to report that they agreed and again as long as they do not
run into any major problems the move will take place on Saturday September 4th.
If anything changes I will let you all know.
While I was there today I took some pictures of the progress being made and
have attached them to this e-mail. In the pictures you will see that the steel
beam that run the length of the building on the railroad side is in place. The
next step is to get the beam in that will run in the middle of the station from
the Royal Ave side to the beam on the track side. When that is done the Royal Ave
side beam will be put in and then the 2 end beams. This will all hopefully be
done by the end of this week, so if you are by the station stop by and check out
the progress. The other photo is of Larry DiBello who's company is doing the
move enjoying a break in front of his work.
KC
#5746 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Aug 26, 2010 1:09 pm
Subject: 40B Work Day Saturday
Everyone,
We are planning a work session on the 40B for Saturday, August 28th, at 8:30am
at Craig's house. We are going to try and get the metal body scrapped and primed
as well as do other work on the car itself. We will probably work into the mid-
afternoon so if you can make it for the day or only for a few hours please come
by, we can use the help.
Thanks,
KC
#5748 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Aug 30, 2010 1:17 pm
Subject: Station move
Everyone,
I was speaking with the station mover today and due to problems he is having
getting the steel under the building due to the rot he is finding, he does not
believe he will be able to get the station moved this Saturday. If that holds
true I know it will be disappointing and will set us back even more with the
other work we need to do but we want to make sure the building is safe to move.
So as it stands right now I would doubt the move will happen Saturday and
because of our motorcar trip on the 11th and 12th we will not be able to delay
the move to that weekend. So the move will most likely happen during the week
after Labor Day, but we will not know that for sure until later this week.
If anything changes and he can prepare the building to be moved on Saturday I
will let you all know.
Thanks,
KC
#5749 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Sep 1, 2010 11:01 am
Subject: 40B work session tonight
Everyone,
Sorry for the late notice but we are going to have a work session tonight
(Wednesday) at Craig's house on the 40B. We will start at 6:30. We are going
to start working on the car body doing sanding as well as putting more parts back
on the car itself. If you need directions write me back.
Hope to see you there,
KC
#5752 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Sep 2, 2010 10:31 am
Subject: Station and motorcars
Everyone,
First, the station move that we hope would have happened this Saturday is not
going to happen. The mover is just running into to many issues that have slowed
him down. At this time I can not tell you when the move will happen but as soon
as I know I will let you all know.
The second thing is that if you are planning on bringing a car to our Utica /
Cooperstown motorcar trip on September 11th and 12th and have not already signed
up please do so as soon as possible. We are trying to determine how many people
will be there so we can make sure everything is ready. As always you can sign up
through our web site with your credit card or mail in a check.
Thanks,
KC
#5754 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Sep 9, 2010 10:06 pm
Subject: Hawthorne station update
Everyone,
Today the steel went onto the foundation so that the station could be slid onto
it and the steel plates were started to be laid out between the station and the
foundation. I have attached a few photos to show you all what is going on.
With this work now done the next step is to prepare the building to be moved which
includes among other things the attaching and tightening of the cables that will
be used to keep the building square while it is moved.
In speaking with the mover he thinks everything should be ready by Tuesday or
maybe Wednesday of next week and he could move the building at that time. But in
an effort to make it so we can all see the move take place we decided to shoot for
moving the building Saturday September 18th starting at 7am. This should allow for
any other delays and for the move to happen when the railroad has no traffic.
So, I know I have given us all dates in that past that were not met but this time
I feel very good that the mover will be ready. So mark your calendars and wake up
early on the 18th and come on down and be part of watching history.
That all being said if anything changes I will let you know.
By the way a hole has been cut in the floor in the station to access the underside
for the move, so be careful if you go inside.
Cross your fingers,
KC
3 of 3 Photo(s)
Hole in floor.JPG
steel.JPG
Steel on foundation.JPG
#5755 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sat Sep 11, 2010 11:09 pm
Subject: station help
Everyone,
We need a few people to spend a couple of hours getting the old chimney bricks
out of the attic at the station one night this week. I can probably do it Monday
night, can anyone else join me? Please let me know,
Thanks,
KC
#5760 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Sep 15, 2010 11:13 am
Subject: Station Move
Hello All!
Well, as is common with these kind of projects, we have had another change in the
move date for the Hawthorne Station. As of today, the move will take place Friday,
Sept 17th, in the afternoon. Saturday is a major Jewish holiday, and the Mayor of
Hawthorne will be in observance of it. As such, we need to have this happen before
sundown on Friday. The tentative time will be 2 pm, but keep an eye on your email
for exact time!
As always, this is all still tentative, and we will keep all members appraised of
any changes as soon as we can.
Thanks everyone for your continued help with this huge project, and hope to see as
many people as possible on Friday!
Carolyn Hoffman
#5761 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Sep 15, 2010 10:30 pm
Subject: Station moved a little
Everyone,
I am happy to say that Hawthorne station got moved about 25 feet today and every-
thing went well. The plan right now is for the station to be moved right up to the
foundation on Thursday and then on Friday afternoon, probably around 2pm, the
station will be moved onto the new foundation. We were trying our best to have
this all happen on a weekend, but conditions and situation just are not going to
allow that to happen.
So if you can make it to the station on Friday afternoon you can witness history
and the culmination of years of work by many VRA members. If you can not make it
on Friday please be sure to stop down when you can and see is going on.
Also, once the station is moved we are going to need to get everything out of
Andrea's, Chris's and my mother in laws garages and get everything back into the
station and down into the new basement. The addition will be built and the
electrical work will be done as soon as possible.
We will need to get people down to the station to do work in and outside as
often as we can. We are going to try and get the station ready for April 29th,
2011 which means fund raising, donations and even grants or loans. If you would
like to donate or know of someone who would please let us know. Being a 501c3
non-profit group donations can be tax deductible.
I hope to see you on Friday and or at the up coming work sessions,
KC
#5762 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Sep 16, 2010 7:33 am
Subject: Hawthorne Station move
Everyone,
This e-mail is a long time in the making and is arriving much later than I
had hoped, but like the old saying goes, better late than never. Yesterday Hawthorne
station made it's first move towards it new home, when the mover did a "test" move
and it went so well he ended up moving it about 30 feet. Today (Thursday) he will
move it some more and get it positioned at the edge of the new foundation in
preparation for the final move which will be made on Friday. We had hoped that
all of this could have happened on a weekend but with the delays encountered and
the holiday this weekend we decided that as to not delay the project any longer a
weekday final move would be appropriate.
So as it stands now we are going to make the final move starting at about
2pm on Friday with the goal to have it on the foundation by 5pm. I invite you all
to come and be part of this event and to help us celebrate the culmination of this
phase of the project and the beginning of a new chapter in the 116 year history of
Hawthorne Station.
K.C. Smith
Volunteer Railroaders Association
President
#5763 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Sep 16, 2010 2:22 pm
Subject: station update
Everyone,
This morning the station was moved up and onto the foundation by about 15 feet in
preparation for the final move at 2pm on Friday. Everything is going very well
and the station has stood up well to the move. Now that it is sitting partly on
the foundation the rest of the move is expected to go well, lets hope anyhow.
As long as everything goes well I am thinking we should probably get some of the
stuff we have stored in various peoples houses back into the station. So if you
are coming for the move or can make it later in the afternoon / early evening and
can lend a hand that would be great.
I hope to see you all there,
KC
#5764 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Sep 17, 2010 9:07 pm
Subject: The station is moved
Everyone,
Well it is done, the station is sitting on her new foundation and after a little
work to fine tune where she sits, she can be taken off the rollers that carried her
and she will come to rest on the foundation. This work will take place on Monday
which means we can probably start putting things back in by later next week. I
have a ttached a few photos and will put more in a folder on the Yahoo Group so
you can see what it looks like now that she is moved.
I want to thank everyone who helped make this day possible and all those who were
able to take time off of work to make it for the weekday move. As I mentioned the
other day, we woudl have much rather make the move on a Saturday so everyone could
make it, but we felt getting the building moved today was better than waiting a few
weeks for the next time we had a free Saturday.
Please watch your e-mail for the schedule of days that we are planning to go work
getting stuff back in the building, we are going to need all the hands we can get.
Thanks,
KC
5 of 5 Photo(s)
Train passing new location.JPG
An angle never seen.JPG
Group shot on move day.JPG
almost half way there.JPG
first days move.JPG
#5766 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sat Sep 18, 2010 12:35 am
Subject: URGENT! Flaggers needed for the NYS&W Southern Division run
Hello VRA,
Our annual motorcar run over the NYS&W's Southern Division is fast approaching.
The trip is set for the weekend of October 2nd & 3rd - now just two weeks away.
The key to making these trips the success they have been remains the volunteers
who flag the crossings each day. Without them, these trips would not be nearly
as safe or as well received by the participants.
To that end, we are writing you to once again ask for your help. We will need no
less than 12 people each day to make cover all the grade crossings. If you can
volunteer for one or both days, please contact us at @... to let us know when you
would be available. As in the past, if you flag one day, you are welcome to ride
in one of the cars on the other. Likewise, lunch will be provided for you on the
day(s) you flag the crossings.
This is always a fun weekend that we look forward to every year. We hope you can
join us!
#5770 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Sep 22, 2010 10:22 pm
Subject: October 2nd and 3rd
Everyone,
I write you all again today because we are only 10 days away from our motorcar
trip on the NYSW southern division and we are still well short of the people we
need to properly flag the crossing. As has been mentioned before, we need 12 people
each day to work in teams of 2 to make sure the job gets done as best as it can be.
These trips can not come off as well as they have without flaggers.
So if you have not already signed up please do so. The only requirements are
that your are 18 or over and are able to physically do what is needed of you.
The job is really pretty simple, you will drive in teams of 2 to your assigned
crossings and protect them when the motorcars approach so that they can pass
safely. In exchange for your service you will receive lunch the day you flag and
if you flag one day you can ride in a motorcar the other. Another option is to
ride one way each day and flag the other way. This requires that someone else
can do that and that you either have someone to drive or you are willing to allow
someone else to drive your car back.
Please ask your freinds and relatives if they would like to help out so we know
we have the manpower needed. Charles Smith is in charge of the flagging teams
this year and so if you can help please write to him at Charles Smith
Thank you,
KC
#5774 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Mon Sep 27, 2010 3:03 pm
Subject: Re: NYSW
KC & Chris,
Is it OK to post the below on railfan sites like railroad.net, railfan.net & area
related Yahoo! groups? I have about 10 places total in mind.
Below is the 'Chris Vitz 2009 Railroad.net post' that has been 'updated' by me - so
it could have some errors related to 2010 differences that only a EC could spot.
Mike
Ride the NYS&W Southern Division 2010 speeder excursion
Well it is that time of year again where we offer a ride on a railroad speeder
to the railfan community at large over the NYS&W Southern Division in return for
a little help.
I am the webmaster for the Volunteer Railroaders Association. The VRA sets up
speeder trips on the NYS&W in NJ and NY. Last year the VRA held runs on the Utica,
Syracuse and Southern Divisions of the NYS&W.
In the past the VRA has solicited the railfan community to join us and help
flag crossings in exchange for a ride on the cars. If you are able to follow along
in your vehicle and flag crossing one day, you ride for free on the motorcars the
other day. The day you flag crossings, we pay for your lunch. It has always worked
out well. Several fans on this list have helped on these trips. This year we are
making that offer again!
October 2nd and October 3rd we will be running the entire Southern Division of
the NYS&W. Saturday we run roundtrip from Riverdale, NJ to Pelton Road (Warwick,
NY) and Sunday we will be running roundtrip from Riverdale east to Ridgefield Park
and hopefully North Bergen.
This trip have been fully approved by the NYS&W and insured through NARCOA's
national insurance policy. If you chose to help us you must sign a release form
and you must be over 18 years old (railroad's requirement).
To sign up with your offer to help, you can email the VRA at @...
More information on the trips can be found here: http://www.vratrips.org/
Mike O'Toole
VRA webmaster
On 09/27/2010 09:00 AM, VRA Inc wrote:
> Everyone,
>
> We are still short the needed flaggers for this coming weekend and we can really
use your help. We have opening both Saturday and Sunday and as I have said a number
of times, without the flaggers these trips can not be run as well as they can be
and will not be as enjoyable as they can be to the participants. On top of that
I am not sure we can run as far as we have scheduled because without flaggers it
will take us longer to make the run and we might run out of time and light.
>
> If you have not signed up to help, please consider doing so.
>
> Thank you,
> KC
>
>
#5776 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Mon Sep 27, 2010 11:39 pm
Subject: Re: NYSW '10 speeder excursion post locations
I did a few more NJ rail groups than ten, twenty one to be exact :-) Mike O.
* = moderated + = seen from a moderated group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/brwrr/
* + http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/BinghamtonNYareaRailfans/
http://el-list.railfan.net/list/
* http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ErieLackawannaRR/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Erie-RR/
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/HudsonRiverRailLines/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hudsonriverrails/
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/LHR-Rwy/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Newjerseytransit/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NJMidland/
* + http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/NorthernDiv-NYSW/
* + http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/northjerseyrailroads/
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/NYGL/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nysw/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RailfanEvents/
* http://groups.yahoo.com/group/scrailclub/
* + http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Susquehanna/
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/Tri-StateChapter/
* http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TriStateRailFanEvents/
http://forums.railfan.net/forums.cgi?board=NYSW;action=display;num=1285626672
http://www.railroad.net/forums/viewtopic.php?f=57&t=75499
#5778 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Sep 30, 2010 9:43 am
Subject: Hawthorne Station
Everyone,
Once this weekends motorcar trips are done we are going to start working on the
station on a regular basis. We need to clean and paint the interior as well as
work around the outside of the building doing lots of different things.
The plan is to have regular work days and nights and always have at least one
"crew leader" there each of those days and nights. So we need a few people to
volunteer to lead and then the rest of us to show up when we can and do what needs
to be done. If we can get 2 nights per week and at least one day on the weekend
and hopefully 2, we should be able to make great progress on the station and have
it ready for April 29, 2011.
I will start out by saying that I will lead a crew each Monday night starting
at 5:30 and running through about 9. If anyone can help show up when you can and
be ready to get dirty. This will start this Monday October 4th.
I will also volunteer to be one of the crew leaders for Saturday's starting at
9am and working into at least the early afternoon. Because of the many conflicts
that we all seem to have on weekends, we are going to need at least a few people
to volunteer as crew leaders on Saturday's... any volunteers?
If you would like to be a crew leader please let me know the day and times.
Everyone who takes on that responsibility will need to have a good knowledge of
what needs to be done and how to get it done.
I hope to see a good crew starting this Monday, I can tell you now that clean
up will be the first order of business.
Thanks,
KC
Mike can you please post this notice and the schedule on our web site, thanks.
#5782 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Thu Sep 30, 2010 1:26 pm
Subject: Hawthorne Day this Saturday
Hello again! Busy week for group email updates. ;-)
Hawthorne Day is this Saturday from noon to 8 pm at the Hawthorne Municipal Pool
grounds on Wagaraw Rd. The VRA has a table for the day to promote the group, the
station, and sell the paver bricks we are offering for the park in front of the
station. With the Southern Division motorcar trip this weekend we are short on
volunteers already, but we absolutely have to have someone in Hawthorne on Saturday.
If you are not riding or flagging this weekend, please let us know as soon as
possible if you can man this table for the afternoon.
The Borough of Hawthorne has given us great support and consideration on our
Station move, our involvement in Hawthorne Day is a necessity.
I will be available after 5 pm tomorrow to meet at the Station to coordinate
materials and displays with whomever will be there Saturday.
Thanks everyone!
Carolyn
#5785 From: Larry T
Date: Mon Oct 4, 2010 9:06 pm
Subject: Susq. motorcar run
I just like to say how much my two friends and I enjoy the time on the rails by
motorcar this past weekend. I like to say thank you to all the volunteers that
made this the best run in this area as always. I have been hearing people say
how they wish they could do this run more then one time a year . Great job.,
great run . Looking forward to the next run on this line.
Larry Ten Hoeve
#5786 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Oct 5, 2010 4:40 pm
Subject: Station work night
Everyone,
I was looking to reschedule the work session at Hawthorne station to Wednesday
night (October 6th) starting as early as 5:30 and running until no later than 9 pm.
Is anyone available to come down and do a little cleaning?
As I mentioned the other day we need to start to work on the station if we are to
have any chance of having it ready for April.
Also we are putting together a crew to work on the grounds around the station
Saturday. I think Carolyn had said she was leading that crew and so I will leave
it up to her to announce the time.
Thanks,
KC
#5794 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Oct 6, 2010 9:32 pm
Subject: Station work day Saturday
Everyone,
Today 5 members went to the station and did a bit of clean up work before it got
to dark and made the stations inside ready for the next work day, which will be
this Saturday starting at 9am. Andrea Rebner will be our crew leader for the day
and she plans on doing some spackling and other prep work in preparation of
painting the interior walls. Also during the day we will start working on cleaning
up the grounds around the building so that it not only looks better but is also safer.
If you are available any time between 9 am and mid afternoon please come on down
and lend a hand. Step ladders, scrapers, sanders and anything else used to prep
for painting would be good to bring along. For the outside work a wheel barrow,
shovels, rakes and such would be good.
Lets get a good crowd to the station and get lots of work done, April 29th is
just short of 7 months away. If you know you can make it let Andrea know so she
knows who to expect. If you don't know and then find out you can, just come on
down.
Thanks,
KC
#5795 From: Gary R. Kazin
Date: Wed Oct 6, 2010 10:34 pm
Subject: Re: Station work day Saturday
An SU-99 passed the station at 6 PM, so we took a train break to watch:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8mnPkd386c
Gary R. Kazin
DL&W Milepost R35.7
Rockaway, New Jersey
#5797 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Fri Oct 8, 2010 4:30 pm
Subject: FW: Video of last weekends NARCOA speeder trip
The NARCO ride stopped at Maywood NJ station, leaving and railroad show.
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: NYSW List - NARCOA trip-video
Date: Fri, 8 Oct 2010 15:52:35 -0400
From: Keith Smollin
To: susquehanna@..., nysw@yahoogroups.com
I posted a video from last weekends NARCOA trip to my new youtube channel page
I also updated some old goodies as well..here is a link below to the most recent.
through this page you can access the others
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cxs8IFO42Ww
#5798 From: "Bernie"
Date: Fri Oct 8, 2010 10:17 pm
Subject: Re: FW: Video of last weekends NARCOA speeder trip lv534
Video has been deleted. Link does not work.
Bernie Isherwood
Lightship Sailor
WLV-534
http://www.uscglightshipsailors.org/
----- Original Message -----
From: Michael O'Toole
To: volunteerravolunteerrailroaders@yahoogroups.com
Cc: VRA Inc ; William Arneson ; John Bond ; Lou Digeronimo ; Denise C. Egan ;
Walter Joyce ; Joseph Mele ; Bill Smith ; Vince ; Walter ; Hank Webber ;
Michael Whipple
Sent: Friday, October 08, 2010 16:30
Subject:[Volunteerrailroaders]FW: Video of last weekends NARCOA speeder trip
The NARCO ride stopped at Maywood NJ station, leaving and railroad show.
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: NYSW List - NARCOA trip-video
Date: Fri, 8 Oct 2010 15:52:35 -0400
From: Keith Smollin
To: susquehanna@..., nysw@yahoogroups.com
I posted a video from last weekends NARCOA trip to my new youtube channel page
I also updated some old goodies as well..here is a link below to the most
recent..through this page you can access the others
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cxs8IFO42Ww
#5801 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Oct 10, 2010 1:15 pm
Subject: Station work schedule
Everyone,
As I have written, we are setting up a work schedule for the station with hopes
we can make a lot of headway on what needs to be done and give everyone a lot of
choices as to when they can come down and help. By the way on Saturday Andrea,
Mike G and KC spent the day working on filling in cracks and holes in the interior
walls in preparation for painting.
This week we are looking to have 3 work sessions and they are as follows:
Monday October 11th - 5:30pm to 8pm to work on finishing the sparkling and sanding
of the east end of the interior, led by KC
Saturday October 16th - 9am to late afternoon to paint the east end of the interior,
possibly help build the addition on the west end of the station or work on the
grounds around the station to get things looking good and ready for the landscaping.
Led by Andrea and Carolyn
Sunday October 17th - 9am to late afternoon to complete the painting if needed and
to continue to work on the exterior. Led by KC and Jon.
If anyone would like to lead a crew on a day not listed please let me know.
We have put up a white board with the projects that need to be completed and ask
that when anyone goes to work at the station they look at that board and work on
the items that need to get done. When the project is completed please cross it out.
Thanks,
KC
#5803 From: Mike O'Toole
Date: Sun Oct 10, 2010 5:26 pm
Subject: Re: FW: Video of last weekends NARCOA speeder trip
All of his videos are gone. Sad....
Mike
On 10/9/2010 11:57 PM, Gary R. Kazin wrote:
> Youtube says the video isn't there any longer.
>
> Gary R. Kazin
> DL&W Milepost R35.7
> Rockaway, New Jersey
>
#5804 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Oct 13, 2010 10:59 pm
Subject: Station work
Everyone,
It looks like the builder could have the framing up on Friday over the cellar steps
and if it is done we are going to work on closing it in with plywood and Tyvek on
Saturday. In addition we are going to be working on the spackeling and painting
on the inside and the clean up of the the area on the outside. So please think
about coming down and lending a hand. We should be there from about 9am to mid to
late afternoon.
We will also be working on and around the station on Sunday, so that gives you
2 days that you can come out and help us get the work done on the station.
I hope to see you one of the days and maybe both. If you have tools that would
help with any of the jobs bring them along.
KC
#5808 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Thu Oct 14, 2010 9:30 pm
Subject: Video of October 2-3 NARCOA speeder trip
The NARCO ride stopped for lunch at the Maywood NJ NYS&W station.
Video is the speeders leaving and a short survey of their railroad show.
> Keith Smollin wrote:
>
> Here is the new link for the speeder trip from last weekend
> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJePM8trkR8
>
> Keith
Mike O'Toole
VRA webmaster
#5810 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Oct 19, 2010 8:51 pm
Subject: Station work Saturday October 23rd
Everyone,
We are planning another work session at the station this Saturday starting at
about 9AM and running through the late afternoon.
The plan for the day will be to continue to work on the interior painting, put
up the siding on the new addition that was built last Friday (as long as the lumber
gets delivered), work on the grounds and the old foundation and maybe even a little
more. What we can get done will depend on how many people can help. If you know
you can make it for all or part of the day please let us know. If you don't know
if you can make it, just come on down, we will find a job for you.
Depending on if someone want to take on being a crew leader on Sunday, we will
also try and have a work day then. Any volunteers?
The last thing is that on Friday night we have having our board meeting, this
month at my house due to the work being done at the station. Members are welcome
to attend but because it is at my house I am asking anyone who would like to come
to let me know so I know if I will have room.
Thanks,
KC
#5812 From: Frank Ball
Date: Wed Oct 20, 2010 2:08 pm
Subject: Hawthorne site work.
Photos of plumbing installation on Monday 10/18/10.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2097638&id=1234064686&l=666080cb75
#5813 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Oct 20, 2010 2:17 pm
Subject: Station update
Everyone,
I wanted to update you on happenings at Hawthorne Station.
The addition over the steps was put on last Friday thanks to Abbood Construction.
The water and sewer were reconnected by Hawthorne Mechanical.
The basement was wired and the electric service will be reattached this Saturday
thanks to Ed Newman of Command Electric.
The guys from DiBello today cut the vertical steel off the I-beam on the track
side and it is now ready to painted.
The company who is making the cellar steps was there today and will be giving us a
discount because of our efforts.
I stopped at Kuiken Brothers Lumber today and ordered the lumber for the siding
of the addition which will be delivered Saturday morning so we can install it.
To top it all off we have had a good turn out by our members on most work days and
have gotten a bit of work done. So far in the last few weeks Andrea, Mike, John,
Jon, Steve, Matt, Frank, Andrew and a few others have spent time working on, in
and around the station.
With the delivery of the wood set up for our work day on Saturday, we will
certainly have a lot of work to do. So why not come on down anytime between 9am
and 3pm and lend a hand.
Thanks,
KC
#5814 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Oct 24, 2010 4:33 pm
Subject: Station work night - tomorrow, Monday, October 25th
Good afternoon VRA,
Work at the station continues. This weekend, the group got the siding on the new
addition installed. I stopped by to see it this afternoon and it looked great.
We'll be meeting at the station tomorrow after work around 6pm. There's a number
of things left to finish including work on the interior and painting the steel
frame with rust preventative paint. Hope to see you there.
Sincerely,
Charles
#5815 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Oct 26, 2010 9:31 am
Subject: Station update
Everyone,
We have made a lot of progress on the station the last few weeks and we are looking
to keep the momentum going. So tonight starting at about 4:30 and running as long
as we can, we will once again be at the station doing work.
Then on Saturday (October 30th) we will be having another work session and hope
we can get a good crew of volunteers out to help. We have lots of work we would
like to get done and every hand (experienced or not) would help get more work done
and the project closer to completion. We will start at 9am on Saturday and work
throughout the day, so come early, come late, stay all day or stay for a few hours,
any time you can give is appreciated.
Thanks,
KC
PS, The attached picture shows the new addition with the siding going on done by
Carolyn, Jon, Frank and Me.
1 of 1 Photo(s)
siding going on.JPG
#5816 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Oct 28, 2010 6:39 pm
Subject: Station reminder
Everyone,
Just a reminder that Saturday we will be once again be having a work day at the
station. We have been making a lot of progress and with a good crew on Saturday
we should be able to continue that. Painting, roof work, landscaping, basement
set up and more is our plan. The day will start at 9am and go through the late
afternoon. Come by and help for an hour or all day.
Also if you are free during the day on Friday, Charles will be at the station
prepping and painting the steel so we can start to put the bricks on and make the
station foundation look like it used to.
Hope to see you there,
KC
#5817 From: "Grand Admiral Thrawn"
Date: Mon Nov 1, 2010 11:29 am
Subject: Newsletter articles
Hello everyone. Please remember that this week articles for the news letter are
due. This edition should include an update on the santa train, work at the
station a write up on the Southern Division speeder trip and any URHS happenings.
Please email the articles to me by 11/5 so the digital copy can be uploaded and
distributed over the weekend.
Thanks,
Jon
#5818 From: VRA Inc
Date: Tue Nov 2, 2010 8:48 am
Subject: Station and Santa
Everyone,
This Saturday we will once again be having a work day at the station but this
time we have 2 main objectives. The first is to continue the work on the station
and the second is to get signs, banners and posters out for our upcoming Santa
Trains.
We will begin the day at 9am and will go through out the day. Those wishing
to help with the station work should come dressed in work clothes. Those wanting
to help put out the signs should come with something warm on, as it is supposed
to be chilly.
Both of these jobs are important and since we need the money from the Santa Train
to pay for the work on the station it is my hope that those who are not able to
work on the station would be there to get the signs out for the train.
I hope to see you,
KC
#5819 From: Mike O'Toole
Date: Tue Nov 2, 2010 3:25 pm
Subject: Re: Newsletter articles
Grand Admiral,
Have you considered a longer 'electronic copy only' version of the
newsletter? More articles, more pictures and more other items (?). The
'snail mail only' members get just the 'top layer' (basically what we've
done in the past).
What I'm suggesting is tail gaiting the extra (pages beyond the 'top
layer') keeps your sanity in creating two versions at once. Printing for
snail mailers is only slightly complicated - print pages 1-3 only. Leave
the postal address section in, the 'electronic copy only' people can
scroll by it.
Reasoning - 1) we do so many things per quarter in a very involved way.
More, longer or more articles would be VERY easy. 2) Our newsletter's
content is a major part of our attracting new members.
Mike O'Toole
On 11/1/2010 10:29 AM, Grand Admiral Thrawn wrote:
> Hello everyone. Please remember that this week articles for the news letter
are due. This edition should include an update on the santa train, work at the
station a write up on the Southern Division speeder trip and any URHS
happenings.
>
> Please email the articles to me by 11/5 so the digital copy can be uploaded
and distributed over the weekend.
>
> Thanks,
> Jon
#5820 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Nov 3, 2010 10:10 am
Subject: Mason Needed
Everyone,
We are in need of someone who can do a small masonry job at the station on Saturday.
The job is to build a block wall under the south end of the station that is about
4 feet high by 16 feet wide. If anyone knows how to do this or knows someone who
will do it for us for free (or close to it) please let me know. The mason that
did the rest of the work has not been able to get back and finish this part of the
job and we need to get it done before the snow flies. Please call me at 201-787-
4770 if you need any more details.
Thanks,
KC
#5821 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Nov 4, 2010 9:01 am
Subject: Santa Signs
Everyone,
As you know from my e-mail the other day we need to get our Santa Train signs
out and Saturday will be one of those days we will be working on it. I also want
to let you know that we will also be having people go out on Sunday to try and get
everything done. So if you can not make it Saturday then please come down to the
station on Sunday at 9am for a supply of them. We will have a list of towns that
need signs so you know where you need to work on.
Thanks,
KC
#5823 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sat Nov 6, 2010 10:26 pm
Subject: Re: Santa Signs
Everyone,
After spending 10 hours working at the station today I am not in any condition
to be at the station at 9AM on Sunday to meet anyone to get the signs out. I will
however be down a little later in the morning and so if anyone would like to help
get some of the signs out please call my cell, 201-787-4770 after 10am and I will
arrange to meet you somewhere. I have most all of the road side signs with me as
well as most of the banners. Charles and Tom Shefer will also be out putting up
signs (as they did today) and may be able to get you some signs if I can't.
Thanks,
KC
#5824 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Nov 8, 2010 8:08 am
Subject: URGENT Mason Needed
Everyone.
Last Wednesday I wrote asking if anyone knew of a mason to help finish the work
at the station (see below) but did not hear back did not hear back from anyone.
At this time we are in a critical situation due to the cold weather that is upon
us and sure to get colder. We need to get the work done at the station before
Friday so that next weekend we can back fill against the foundation and get the
basement sealed up and ready for winter.
So please let me know if you have any friends, relatives or friends of relatives
who would be willing to do the work this week. I can be reached at 201-787-4770.
Thanks,
KC
#5825 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Nov 8, 2010 8:29 am
Subject: Station work day November 13th
Everyone,
We will have our next work day at the station on Saturday November 13th from 9am
until 4pm. Any help you can give during the day would be appreciated. We have a
long list of things that need to be done and a short list of things we need to do
before the temps drop to low.
If you can make it all day or just part of the day please let me know.
Thanks,
KC
#5828 From: VRA Inc
Date: Fri Nov 12, 2010 8:33 am
Subject: November Newsletter
Everyone,
Attached is a copy of this months newsletter. Please take a few minutes to read
it and look at the photos of the work that has been going on. If you have any
trouble opening the file I will also be posting a copy in our Yahoo group.
Also please remember that our next membership meeting is Thursday November 18th
starting at 7pm sharp at St Clements Church in Hawthorne. We will be having our
annual holiday party with pizza and cake being served, so come hungry.
See you then,
KC
1 of 1 File(s)
N-D-J 2010 newsletter.pdf
#5829 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Mon Nov 8, 2010 9:07 am
Subject: Re: URGENT Mason Needed
Morning All -
I just spoke with a family friend who owns a construction company. He has done
block work for years, and had no problem coming this week to help us. He will be
in the area tomorrow and is going to go look to see what needs to be done. I will
speak to him tomorrow evening and confirm he can complete it this week. I'll keep
everyone updated as I have more information.
Thanks
Carolyn
#5832 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Nov 14, 2010 8:02 pm
Subject: Santa Train help
Everyone,
We are doing very well with the sale of tickets for our Santa Train, we have sold
1441 of 2430 available tickets leaving us 989 to sell with just under 3 weeks left
until train day, December 4th.
With that going so well we now need to get the crew and other details settled so
we are not working on anything at the last minute. Sooooooooo.... We need to hear
from anyone who would like to volunteer to be a crew member or character.
Because we are only running one day we will need to get a crew down to Hoboken
early on the 4th to decorate the train before it arrives at Fair Lawn to pick up
the rest of us on the crew. So please let me know if you would be willing to get
up extra early and help with that job. We will need at least 6 people to volunteer
for this assignment.
As of now I believe we are all set with volunteers to wear the cartoon characters
costumes and the elves, but we need a few Santa's and Mrs Santa's. So if you can
do one of those positions or know someone who would like to do it please let me
know.
This is one of the 2 biggest fund raisers we have, please come out and help staff
it and make lots of people happy.
Thanks,
KC
#5837 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Nov 15, 2010 4:31 pm
Subject: Station update
Everyone,
Today the plumbing passed inspection and now we can get PSE&G to put the gas
back in so we have heat. We have been told that the electric should be installed
today or tomorrow so when that happens we can work at night when we want.
Also the stairs were delivered but we need to put them in. Is anyone available
Thursday night before the meeting, say around 5pm, to help get the stairs in place?
We will need the tool to fire nails into the concrete (which Craig has if he is
able to make it) and then attached the stairs.
I want to thank Steve G. for being at the station this morning to let the inspector
in and then helping the stair delivery guy get the stairs down into the basement.
I also want to thank everyone who came out to work on the station on Saturday, we
made a lot of progress. Those members were Ken, Craig, Charles, Carolyn, Justin,
Jeff and Steve.
KC
#5847 From: Matt Phalon
Date: Sun Nov 21, 2010 9:58 pm
Subject: Characters Needed
Everyone,
As KC said, we are still short on positions for the "Santa" aspect of the Santa
train. All 5 of our character teams are covered, four of Santa's elves, as well
as ONE Santa, and ONE Mrs. Claus. ***This leaves THREE Santa's, THREE Mrs.
Claus's open which are the most important part of the train.***
I am organizing the character lists for the train, so please let me know as soon
as possible by either replying to this message or emailing me directly at
mattphalon@....
The most important character spots to fill are the Santa's because without them,
its just a train with a bunch of costumed characters. Ask anyone and everyone if
they are interested in doing it, because the worst they could say is no.
-Matt Phalon
#5849 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Nov 22, 2010 9:26 am
Subject: station work day and Santa meeting
Everyone,
First I am very happy to report that we have less than 50 tickets left for the
Santa Train so we are that close to reaching yet another sell out of our trains.
With that in mind we will be having a meeting at the station on Saturday at noon
to go over what we have and what we need to do and get for the trip. Anyone who
is interested in helping with this is asked to come.
Also on Saturday we will be having another work day at the station. We need to
continue the work we have been doing on the exterior, put in the railing going
into the basement, paint the interior of the steel and if we can get some more
painting done on the interior walls. The work party will start at 9am, take a
break at noon for the Santa Meeting and then go back to work depending on time.
So please come on down and help out, the more hands we have the faster the work
gets done.
Thanks,
KC
#5852 From: Matt Phalon
Date: Mon Nov 22, 2010 7:03 pm
Subject: Characters Needed -- Updated 11/22
Everyone,
As of right now we have the following:
-5 character teams (characters and helpers
-4 Elves
-4 Mrs. Claus'
-*1* Santa
Craig Hartman said he has leads to some people who may be interested in playing
Santa and he is going to get back me to. But in the meantime, keep asking
everyone you know that would make a "jolly" Santa if they'd like to do it. A
free lunch, 3 train rides and making over 1,000 children happy seem like a
pretty good paycheck to me!
As always, contact me at mattphalon@... with anyone that is interested in
helping out being Santa. All other volunteers other than characters and Santas
should be sent to Betsy.
Ho Ho Ho
-Matt Phalon
mattphalon@...
#5853 From: Betsy
Date: Tue Nov 23, 2010 11:03 am
Subject: Santa train Platform / Parking Lot
I am still looking for one or two more people willing to help in the Platform /
Parking Lot areas for the Santa train. These areas require proper crew numbers in
order to parking area running smooth as well as getting everyone to the correct
area on time. Please respond to this e-mail or to me directly bln1003@... if you
would like to help out in these areas.
Thank-you,
Betsy Newbury
#5854 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Nov 24, 2010 5:04 pm
Subject: skid steer / bucket loader needed for Saturday
Everyone,
We would like to do some work around the station with the dirt and fill that is
needed and I was wondering if anyone has a small skid steer / bucket loader that
we can use for Saturday. The railroad would like to see the work done ASAP so,
if you know of one please let me know.
Thanks,
KC
#5855 From: VRA Inc
Date: Wed Nov 24, 2010 10:36 pm
Subject: Good news
Everyone,
I know you have seen a number of e-mails about volunteers needed for next weeks
trains and we right now have almost every position filled, which is the good news.
The bad news is we are still missing 3 very important volunteers. The missing
volunteers are people to be Santa.
Now I ask you, what would a Santa Train be without a Santa?
Please check with people you know (or maybe look in the mirror and ask yourself)
if wearing a Santa costume on December 4th is in their future. We want to fill
these open slot by Monday at the latest so we know we are all set for the train
well in advance.
Thanks,
KC
#5858 From: Matt Phalon
Date: Sun Nov 28, 2010 10:17 pm
Subject: Character Needed -- Revised 11/28
Everyone,
I'm pleased to say that we only need ONE more position filled for the Santa
train characters, that being a girl to play Abby Cadabby from Sesame Street. All
of our Santa's and other positions have been filled so keep asking everyone you
possibly can. I have just about exhausted every outlet I have due to many people
coming on the train already or having plans on that day already due to short
notice of this, so I've just about run out of people to ask.
If anyone finds someone to play Abby, please email me as soon as possible so we
can get this all finished and ready to go.
See you all on Saturday!
-Matt Phalon
mattphalon@...
#5859 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Nov 29, 2010 9:21 am
Subject: Santa planning meeting rescheduled
Everyone,
On Saturday we had planned to have a final planning meeting for the Santa trains,
but never got to it because of all the work we were involved in at the station
(see attached picture for some of what we did).
So we have rescheduled the meeting for Wednesday night at the station starting
at 6pm. The plan is to go over all of the details and make sure we did not miss
anything. We will also be going through all of the give aways and supplies,
breaking them up into boxes for the 9 cars.
Anyone who is on the committee or is interested in seeing what gets done is invited
to come.
Thanks,
KC
1 of 1 Photo(s)
Curb installed.jpg
#5862 From: Betsy
Date: Wed Dec 1, 2010 2:27 pm
Subject: Final Crew assignments and 2010 Santa Train Hand Book
Hi All,
Attached is the finalized list of all on board crew, characters, ground crew and
the list crew going to Hoboken to decorate the train.
We are fully staffed for the Santa train, all positions have been filled.
Thank-you all for volunteering and let's have a great Santa Train!
Betsy Newbury
2 of 2 File(s)
2010 Santa Train crew assignments and meeting times .doc
VRA Special Instructions Santa 2010 Glen Rock-FINAL.doc
#5866 From: VRA Inc
Date: Sun Dec 5, 2010 10:39 am
Subject: Santa wrap up
Everyone,
Well we did it again, another year of a sold out and very successful Santa Trains
is over and we should once again be very proud of our efforts.
I want to first thank all of those people who came out to be characters on the
train. Without Santa's, Mrs Claus', Elves and the cartoon characters the trains
would be pointless and not much fun. Matt Phalon did an outstanding job of getting
most of the people who volunteered and deserves a big thank you.
This year marked the first time in our history that I was not the on board crew
chief and while it felt kind of strange to me the train was in good hands.
Carolyn and Justin took over and with Betsy as their assistant they did a great
job. As with every train that is run problems do come up, but they found a way
to deal with and or fix those problems and that is the sign of a good leader. I
am very proud of what they did and can feel good that I can take the much easier
but much less exciting job of handling the platform / parking lot in the future,
or better yet I can be a car host and only have 90 people at a time to worry about.
As always these trains could not be run without everyone else who volunteers to
be car hosts, platform or parking lot attendants. I thank you all for your time,
effort and most of all friendship. I have said this many times before and I am
positive I will say it again many times in the future, the VRA has the best people
I know as it's members.
You all deserve a standing ovation.
In an effort to make future trips better I would like to have a post trip meeting
to go over the good things and the things we could do better. I am looking at
Tuesday night at 6pm as a good time to do this. Does that sound OK by those who
would like to come? By the way we can have the meeting at the station as the
power has been reconnected so we will have lights and can plug in some heaters
(the gas is still not connected).
Please pass this along to anyone you know from outside the VRA who volunteered
to make yesterday possible. And while you are at it ask them if they would like
to join the VRA, we can always use good people to be part of this great group.
Thanks,
KC
#5867 From: Mike O'Toole
Date: Sun Dec 5, 2010 4:17 pm
Subject: Re: Santa wrap up
Congrats from 25 degree Massachusetts!
This came through the santatrain.net email form:
realname = Anna Martinez
email = mini8399@...
Message = My children and I went to the Glen Rock Train Ride today, and it
was wonderful; i just wanted to give a suggestion; maybe music playing while the
rain is going will be a bit entertaining..also handing out crayons with the
coloring books so that the kids have something to do while they wait for the
characters to come out.
Happy Holidays
Music may be a challenge, especially if we have a Comet car assortment (Comet 2,
Comet 4 and Comet 5). With a Comet assortment sound levels may be right on in one
car, low on another and blasting in a 3rd depending on the car. NJTRO may nix it
as the PA is considered a safety tool.
Mike O'Toole
#5868 From: Gary R. Kazin
Date: Sun Dec 5, 2010 8:37 pm
Subject: Re: Santa wrap up
NO CRAYONS!
I did that once for a special train with kids on it and we had a number of the
cars with crayon drawings on them.
For the same reason, we give out the candy canes near the end of the trip. Less
garbage, and the kids who get hyper from the sugar don't do so until they are off
the train.
I do like the idea of music. It can be done by using a boom box in each car,
rather than the PA system. Of course, it's best when the passengers do the singing.
Tri-State has a singing groups (a barbershop quartet is one of them) wander
through the train.
Gary R. Kazin
DL&W Milepost R35.7
Rockaway, New Jersey
#5870 From: VRA Inc
Date: Mon Dec 6, 2010 10:07 am
Subject: Station help Monday?
Everyone,
We still have a stuff from the station stored in a number of members (and members
Mother in-laws) garages and now that the power is on at the station I would like
to get that stuff back to the station.
The first order of business is to get the cabinets and shelves out of Chris Abbood's
garage so we can properly store the other stuff. And since Chris is still in NJ I
was thinking tonight might be a good time to do that. I will be going to the station
tonight to meet with the fence company at about 5 and thought when I was done we
could run up to Chris's. If you can lend a hand please come to the station by
about 5:30 or 6. It should not take us more than an hour and a half or so to do
what needs to be done.
Thanks,
KC
#5873 From: VRA Inc
Date: Thu Dec 9, 2010 12:10 am
Subject: Toys for Tots and Station work Saturday
Everyone,
We have been notified that the Toys for Tots train running on the NYSW this
Saturday will be needing some ground help again this year. The first stop that
will they will need help is Hawthorne with planned arrival at 10:20 am, then
Wortendyke at 11:10, Wyckoff at 11:45, Pompton Lakes at 1 and Butler at 3.
We will need 4 to no more than 6 people to help control the potential crowds as
the train pulls in and then as the train leaves. We may also be asked to help
load toys if there is a lot to do. If you can help please let me know. We will
work in teams of 2 to 3 people so will need 2 people who can drive. We will want
to meet at Hawthorne Station at 10 am.
Also on Saturday Craig will be leading a crew to work on getting some more work
done at the station. The order of the day will be to get the shelving and cabinets
that is stored in Chris Abboods garage in Hawthorne starting at 8am and then once
in place in the new basement we will do some work to secure the wood under the
south end of the station and to install banisters on both side of the new basement
steps.
Those who can help move the shelving will meet at Chris's house at 8am and I
will give you the address privately. We will need to load the stuff on the trailer
(which I will tow) and then bring it to that station. I will be leading the Toys
for Tots crew so we need to be done with the move by 10 am. So if you want to do
both things as well you can.
Please let me know if you can help with either thing,
Thanks,
KC
#5879 From: Betsy
Date: Fri Dec 10, 2010 9:09 am
Subject: Re: Re: Santa wrap up
I thank-you too Joe! It was a great day with wonderful people and I know I can't
wait till Easter train!
On Dec 10, 2010 8:54 AM, "Carolyn Hoffman" wrote:
> Thank you Joe!! We enjoyed it and I think we're all looking forward to
> Easter going even more smooth!
>
> On Fri, Dec 10, 2010 at 8:15 AM, Joseph Mele wrote:
>>
>> Betsy,
>>
>> Just a quick note to say that you, Carloyn & Justin did a great job last
>> Saturday...
>>
>> Joe Mele
>>
#5882 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Tue Dec 14, 2010 11:15 am
Subject: NJ Operation Toy Train - THANK YOU TO THE VRA!!
Hello All!
Once again Operation Toy Train this past weekend was a HUGE success! I haven't
heard the final count yet, but we know we collected over 8000 toys and 15 or so
bicycles.
A gigantic THANK YOU goes out to the VRA members who were a big help Saturday and
Sunday. If I forget anyone please feel free to chime in! Hawthorne Station was
in good hands when we arrived with KC Smith, Craig Hartman, Steve Gerritsen & Frank
Ball ready to help patrons around our construction site. They also jumped right in
loading toys and "directing traffic" which made things run very smooth. Craig
stayed to do some essential work on the station, while KC, Frank, Steve & Kevin
Smith followed the train. Steve and Kevin assisted a few more stops until Steve
had to work, while KC and Frank followed all the way up to Butler once again loading
toys and helping with the crowds. You guys all made things run exceptionally well
and your time and efforts were very much noticed.
Joe Mele was on the train again this year covering a number of roles. He made sure
Santa, the Marines and I got on and off the cars safely each stop, covered the
donations and hat sale table for me here and there, and handed lots of toys up
into the box car. Thank you Joe for making sure I didn't break my neck in that
costume and making sure Santa and I had whatever we needed!
Charles Smith followed the train on Sunday and was appointed Photographer for the
Day early on by John Sobotka. It downpoured at Flanders, the first stop of the
day, and there was Charles, umbrella in hand to escort Santa and I into the Fire-
house. He was our runner for the day, loading toys and taking pictures and being
that extra set of hands for everything. Charles, thank you for keeping me from
being a drowned Elf again this year and for all the little things you did all day!
So once again: THANK YOU to all the VRA members who put in whatever time they had
during this busy time of year. Between our train on the 4th and this past weekend
our members have been part of making many many children very happy this holiday
season.
Happy Holidays!
Carolyn Hoffman
#5883 From: Christopher Vitz
Date: Tue Dec 14, 2010 11:22 am
Subject: RE: NJ Operation Toy Train - THANK YOU TO THE VRA!!
Carolyn,
I hope the ride on the Chester Branch was nice and smooth. I had the contractor
work hard to get the track back in service for Santa! Probably no ballast in
place for your ride but it had to be much better than last year.
Chris
#5884 From: Carolyn Hoffman
Date: Tue Dec 14, 2010 1:52 pm
Subject: Re: NJ Operation Toy Train - THANK YOU TO THE VRA!!
Chris,
Thank you for pushing that work through!! It was MUCH better than last year, we
could tell the car was not rocking nearly as much.
Thanks again!
Carolyn
#5887 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Sat Dec 18, 2010 2:19 pm
Subject: Fwd: Google Alert - "Volunteer Railroaders Association"
Google 'found' the Facebook copy of the wikipedia.org Wiki page I made in
October 2008.
Mike
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Google Alert - "Volunteer Railroaders Association"
Date: Sat, 18 Dec 2010 06:50:16 +0000
From: Google Alerts
Web 1 new result for "Volunteer Railroaders Association"
Volunteer railroaders association | Facebook
Welcome to the Facebook Community Page about Volunteer railroaders association,
a collection of shared knowledge concerning Volunteer railroaders ...
www.facebook.com/pages/Volunteer.../115873508423041?sk...
#5889 From: Michael O'Toole
Date: Tue Dec 21, 2010 10:16 pm
Subject: Upcoming VRA Meetings in 2011 - update your calendars
VRA Meetings in 2011
We hold the meetings on the 3rd Thursday of the month in: February (17-Feb-2011),
May (19-May-2011), August (18-Aug-2011) and November (17-Nov-2011).
Meetings start at 7:00 pm at the St Clements Church, 271 Lafayette Avenue,
Hawthorne, NJ 07506. We try and get a show together for each meeting and so ask
people who have something to let us know so we can schedule it, this does not
always work so some meetings we have an open projector night where we allow
members to bring what ever they want and show it with a limit of about 15 or 20
minutes worth.
All are welcome, new members prospects as well.
Added to the VRA Yahoo! Group Calendar as well.
VRA News ChangeFrom January 1st 2011 and going forward all VRA news 2010 to present will be
found on the VRA News Blog. All older VRA news from 1999-2009 can be found on
the VRA New pages.
2009 News
All content copyright © 1993-2011 Volunteer Railroaders Association
Last updated Monday, December 27, 2010
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