Harry Huckemeyer
Spring is in the air, and the sun appears to be shining just a little bit brighter as each day passes by. Although we still are living under the guidelines set forth in the necessary efforts to control the spread of the coronavirus, there appears to continue to be several positive signs seen lately that give us hope that getting back to some degree of normalcy can be expected in the not-too-distant future. Sports are once again being scheduled at both the professional and scholastic levels, schools are reopened, and you may also notice that expectations are that as the summer approaches, you may see many of the locals here doing some traveling to catch up on times or just for the enjoyment of a little getaway to the beach areas where we’re known as “Zonies,” or the high country not too far away.
For the Short Line Model Railroad Club, I’m happy to say that things are looking a lot brighter as we head into the final days of the first half of our 2021 season. Our current plans, right up until our normal summer shutdown, are pretty much in place. We’re anticipating an exciting couple of months featuring a couple of road trips, the continuation of our monthly meetings, picking up the frequency of our past Friday weekly lunches, and an invitation to participate in an upcoming event that is a go in early May in Apache Junction. Our layouts have been in dry dock for about 15 months, so for us, these are exciting times and a challenge to get things up and running again for those who enjoy reliving the past on occasion.
If you’re looking for things to do, especially if you are expecting to have some visiting youngsters coming to town, here are a few possible suggestions: One of the most popular landmarks in the Scottsdale area is the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park which is now open daily, and it is only a short trip up the 101. Attractions there are a train ride that tours the some 30-acre scenic area and an old-fashioned carousel that is currently operating daily. Some of the major indoor attractions are temporarily closed because of the virus guidelines in place. For additional information, you can call the park directly at 480-312-2313. Ask for Valerie, and she’ll be happy to provide you with details. You may also want to ask her about the opportunity to sleep under the stars on April 10 in a first-of-a-kind event being called Tents by the Tracks. Additionally, The Chandler Railroad Museum and, for a trip to the past, the Superstition Mountain Museum in Apache Junction are now both open on weekends. If interested, I would suggest a phone call for hours and additional details.
We’re all looking forward to a brighter future as we head into the remaining months of this year, hopefully filled with fun and enjoyment in whatever your favorite things are to do. If you have any questions regarding any of the above, feel free to contact me by email at [email protected], or you can call at 480-802-4976. If you call, please leave a name, time, and number where I can get back to you. Thank you and have a great day.