Ol' Smoky train for parades and special functions

To see the smiling faces of children and the enthusiasm of the seniors when they visit - motivates me to encourage others to join us with the project. This driving force will inspire you to join the “DSGR’s Maintenance of Way Support Team.”

DSGR’s Maintenance of Way Support Team

I do not require or suggest that anyone spend any money towards the teams input. Equity in the form of sweat (pun) generated from the physical activity of participating in the hobby is all I ask - having said that I do not object to the team running their own personal trains on the layout or providing tangible input towards the construction of the end product. Team sponsors can help to procure materials that will assist us to keep going with the model building, painting and landscaping aspects of our efforts.

I wish to avoid the start of just another train club, as I myself do not feel comfortable as a club member, keeping pace at the beginner (entrance) level. What we are attempting to generate is a purpose. Within this “purpose” the members of the team can provide what ever assistance they themselves feel comfortable to do. As a “group with a purpose” we can work together towards developing the plan(s) to co-ordinate our efforts and to achieve the common goal.

I began to undertake this project without realizing what a multi task effort it would eventually become. It has taken two years to finish and is yet not done; some modifications will be required to enhance its overall appearance. Having taxed the initial budget well beyond my expectations it is time now to direct my energies on the outside layout in general. Now, that the Ol' Smoky project is completed to this point and working well, I now look forward to participating in all the activities that this fine train project is designed to do.

The Railroader's

Be a part of this unique team of colourful misfits (the lot of them), hobos, bandits, and Pinkerton men dressed in costumes who entertain children in the crowds along the parade routes and at special events. These assistants double as helpers to pre/post stage Ol' Smoky wherever required.

Project sponsors

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the sponsors of this project, without the generous assistance of these individuals and organizations it would, at times, be very difficult to continue with all of the complex aspects of DSGR. To provide  some of the materials and/or special services such as painting, powder coating, plus aluminum and steel welding. Advice and consultation solicited or otherwise is recognized as value added, to all my appreciation and gratitude!

	Carrying precious cargo at the ATCO company family picnic for employees.

ATCO family picnic

For the 2007 year I successfully completed two bookings, the first was to provide train rides with the engine and tender for ATCO Natural Gas employees and their children, at a company picnic.

For four hours the engine performed without any difficulty. As this was the first engagement we had not yet tested the trains’ capabilities and did have a last minute mechanical failure which forced a roadside alteration. Fortunately this did not cause a major delay, with the assistance of my son Troy we managed to (MacGuiver) bandage the problem well enough to continue on time and not disappoint any of the children. The day was well received by all and plans for a repeat performance next year were discussed.

Ol' Smoky in the Nanton Days Parade Heritage Day 2007 for Nanton's 100 Year Anniversary

Nanton Days

The second commitment was to my friends Tony & Joan Scheiwiller at Ultimate Trains, whom have been very helpful to me and DeWinton Station. Tony did sponsor the amplified digital sound system that generates all of the real train sounds for Ol' Smoky, as well as to provide rain protection covers for the trailing cars. On this occasion I was able to complete the entire parade route for the annual Nanton Days celebrations and for the town of Nanton's 100 year anniversary. At one point I did created a little too much smoke from the stack and lived up to Ol' Smoky's name but no one complained and the day was an overall great success. We managed to secure a first place red ribbon for our efforts so I am satisfied with our performance as well.

Grey Cup Parade

Ol' Smoky at the Grey Cup Parade on November 28th, 2009