February 2023 Issue: 1 

For model train enthusiasts the combination of mountains, trussells and scenic vistas along with people and communities, build out the realism.  Buildings, landscapes and terrain all must be built as close to scale as possible to create a vision for the builders and fans a realistic model of what is very often a real location. 


Tickets to the show are $15, but with 5 buildings full of models that children and adults can practice their hand at being the "Engineer" it makes for a great day. 😊

The Railroad Show

Take a trip to the model railroad show at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield Massachusetts.  At the Show this year we found plenty of model trains of various sizes.  Models that suit all appetites from the very smallest Z scale (1:220) to G-trains at (1:25) scale.

You Can find more Information about the 2023 Railroad Hoby Show @ Railroad Hobby Show   

Lets go for some White-water


How about a Trip to West Virginia or Maine for a little white-water rafting.  This photo includes members of EWT "Experiment With Travel" formerly of Springfield, Ma.  EWT was a non-profit social services agency that provided outdoor adventure experiences to young men and women from Springfield and the surrounding communities.  For privacy purposes we will just say the I am the 3rd smile from the left in the bottom row.  I should also say this trip was many years ago circa 1977, one of many trips taken with EWT that undoubtedly form the basis for my love of travel and adventure.

You could go rafting on multiple rivers on a trip to Maine including the Dead or the Kennebec.  There's nothing better than a weekend of paddling with family & friends or a teambuilding trip with coworkers.

Map of the Lower Yough

Quick Facts About The Lower Youghiogheny River

The Youghiogheny River (Yok-i-gay-nee), or the Yough (Yok) for short, is a 132-mile (216 km) tributary of the Monongahela River. The Lower Yough Rapids offer class 3 paddling for both inexperienced and seasoned paddlers. With guided trips for the novice.  You do not need any prior experience paddling or rafting to enjoy a guided trip with one of the local rafting companies. 


Wilderness Voyageurs   

PO Box 97

103 Garrett St

Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania 15470

Call: (800) 272-4141 


The first mile of the Lower Yough is unique because it ends very close to where it begins. You can paddle or raft a one-mile loop of rapids by putting in below Ohiopyle Falls and taking-out on river right below Railroad Rapid. From there it’s a 5 to 10-minute walk back to the put in.  

You can choose to continue 6.5 miles downstream and paddle the entire Lower Yough, finishing at Bruner Run Rapid