NMRA membership

[Bergie]

Do you belong to the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA)? Vote then share your comments below.

[vsmith]

National
Meanspirited
Rivitcounters
Association

[vsmith]

National
Meanspirited
Rivitcounters
Association

[BentnoseWillie]

I guess you'd be a "no", then...[:P]

[BentnoseWillie]

I guess you'd be a "no", then...[:P]

[Anonymous]

When I get more serious and actually start building again, I plan on joining - to have access to all the information that is available through the NMRA.

But up until now - I haven't felt a burning desire. I just don't see huge advantages to joining... unless I'm missing something.

Rob

[Anonymous]

When I get more serious and actually start building again, I plan on joining - to have access to all the information that is available through the NMRA.

But up until now - I haven't felt a burning desire. I just don't see huge advantages to joining... unless I'm missing something.

Rob

[AltonFan]

I used to be a memeber, but let my membership lapse when I was going through some financial difficulties.

Outside of Getting the Data Sheets and the recommended practices sheets, the discounts on the books they reprint, and perhaps getting on the mailing lists of the local chapters, I really can't see a big benefit to joining.

[AltonFan]

I used to be a memeber, but let my membership lapse when I was going through some financial difficulties.

Outside of Getting the Data Sheets and the recommended practices sheets, the discounts on the books they reprint, and perhaps getting on the mailing lists of the local chapters, I really can't see a big benefit to joining.

[cmrproducts]

I am a member and although I have not used the many services available at the National level, I am very active at the Division level. A group of local modelers decided to start our own division as we were situated at the extreme ends of 3 Regions. We felt that it would better serve the modelers in the area if we were all in one Region and Division.

It required quite a lot of work but it finally hapened 10 years ago. A lot of people were sure we would never make it but we are celebrating 10 very short years.

One of the many benefits of the NMRA at the Division level is visiting the members layouts and seeing what they are building and getting to operate. I always pick up some new idea or an easier way to do some project when I visit.

We also have our own Jamboree each year to try and get a lot of closet hobbiests to get to know the group and learn new ways of modeling with the many clinics we put on.

Now I have not even talked about the Region or National. This is a whole different area that has their own conventions, which brings together many more modelers. So I feel that the NMRA just provides the basics of getting together and exchanging ideas as well as making new friends.

BOB H Clarion, PA

[cmrproducts]

I am a member and although I have not used the many services available at the National level, I am very active at the Division level. A group of local modelers decided to start our own division as we were situated at the extreme ends of 3 Regions. We felt that it would better serve the modelers in the area if we were all in one Region and Division.

It required quite a lot of work but it finally hapened 10 years ago. A lot of people were sure we would never make it but we are celebrating 10 very short years.

One of the many benefits of the NMRA at the Division level is visiting the members layouts and seeing what they are building and getting to operate. I always pick up some new idea or an easier way to do some project when I visit.

We also have our own Jamboree each year to try and get a lot of closet hobbiests to get to know the group and learn new ways of modeling with the many clinics we put on.

Now I have not even talked about the Region or National. This is a whole different area that has their own conventions, which brings together many more modelers. So I feel that the NMRA just provides the basics of getting together and exchanging ideas as well as making new friends.

BOB H Clarion, PA

[Anonymous]

Seems to me belonging to anything to do with my hobby would be work. I dont do this for "work" I do it for fun. I like to build my stuff and run my trains.

[Anonymous]

Seems to me belonging to anything to do with my hobby would be work. I dont do this for "work" I do it for fun. I like to build my stuff and run my trains.

[Anonymous]

I am with train wreck2 on this subject. It was tempting last year, but I enjoy working on my layout and working things out on my own. Plus I can buy a new car or loco for the same price...

[Anonymous]

I am with train wreck2 on this subject. It was tempting last year, but I enjoy working on my layout and working things out on my own. Plus I can buy a new car or loco for the same price...

[Anonymous]

Like any organization, it is only as good as its "active" members. Those who sit on their hands and do nothing but complain ... well enough said.
I seldom get to regional events, drive time and weekend work schedule usually interrupts. But I have been to most Nationals in the last 20 years, including Toronto. Each and every convention has been well work the money it costs to belong. The opportunity to tour layouts, attend clinics where I can learn how, talk with manufactures and vendors at the show make it all worth while. And this doesn't even consider the many many friends I have made by belonging.

Doug Harding

[Anonymous]

Like any organization, it is only as good as its "active" members. Those who sit on their hands and do nothing but complain ... well enough said.
I seldom get to regional events, drive time and weekend work schedule usually interrupts. But I have been to most Nationals in the last 20 years, including Toronto. Each and every convention has been well work the money it costs to belong. The opportunity to tour layouts, attend clinics where I can learn how, talk with manufactures and vendors at the show make it all worth while. And this doesn't even consider the many many friends I have made by belonging.

Doug Harding

[Anonymous]

I would like to but being disabled and retired I simply cannot afford it. I had to quit buying items for my model railroad due to the high price of my medicine, so I certainly can't afford the dues. Oh well, that's life!!

[Anonymous]

I would like to but being disabled and retired I simply cannot afford it. I had to quit buying items for my model railroad due to the high price of my medicine, so I certainly can't afford the dues. Oh well, that's life!!

[Anonymous]

Some model railroaders have called NMRA the "National HO Scale Society". As a modeler in a minority scale, I am far more active in a "scale specific" organization than in the major all-scales club. I do, however, rejoin NMRA once or twice a decade (for a year at a time) when it will be convenient to attend the national convention.

[Anonymous]

Some model railroaders have called NMRA the "National HO Scale Society". As a modeler in a minority scale, I am far more active in a "scale specific" organization than in the major all-scales club. I do, however, rejoin NMRA once or twice a decade (for a year at a time) when it will be convenient to attend the national convention.

[harryb3]

I've only been a member for a couple of years. So, I haven't availed myself of the library services as yet. I like the bulletin, though they just re-named it. As far as membership benfits go, I would like to see retailers offer a discount to NMRA members. All of the Specs. are nice to have also.
If this is the World's Greatest Hobby, then we should try to find ways to work together towards that goal instead of nitpicking or rivet-counting for that matter. Sure, it can be serious but also should be more fun in the long run in order to pique the interest of the next generation.

Harry Bendtsen

[harryb3]

I've only been a member for a couple of years. So, I haven't availed myself of the library services as yet. I like the bulletin, though they just re-named it. As far as membership benfits go, I would like to see retailers offer a discount to NMRA members. All of the Specs. are nice to have also.
If this is the World's Greatest Hobby, then we should try to find ways to work together towards that goal instead of nitpicking or rivet-counting for that matter. Sure, it can be serious but also should be more fun in the long run in order to pique the interest of the next generation.

Harry Bendtsen

[Anonymous]

I have been a member for many years and, although I don't take advantage of the large number of benefits available, I decided a number of years ago to become a life member. The organization has and still does so much for the hobby, I believe they are worth supporting. If it hadn't been for Model Railroader and the NMRA, our hobby would not be the amazingly great hobby it is today. Standards set across the board allow us to buy things from just about any manufacturer today and know that they will all work together. The recent standards for DCC are just one example.

Plus, getting to meet some of the finest model railroaders in the world at conventions, etc., has greatly benefitted my modeling skills. Besides, it's fun!

Thanks NMRA!

Bill Eubank

[Anonymous]

I have been a member for many years and, although I don't take advantage of the large number of benefits available, I decided a number of years ago to become a life member. The organization has and still does so much for the hobby, I believe they are worth supporting. If it hadn't been for Model Railroader and the NMRA, our hobby would not be the amazingly great hobby it is today. Standards set across the board allow us to buy things from just about any manufacturer today and know that they will all work together. The recent standards for DCC are just one example.

Plus, getting to meet some of the finest model railroaders in the world at conventions, etc., has greatly benefitted my modeling skills. Besides, it's fun!

Thanks NMRA!

Bill Eubank

[Anonymous]

I am a member of the core group so that I support the standardization of products within the hobby. I have worked on several events. I have been a contest judge and Regional Committee Chairman. I have noticed that the sloppy folks complain about rivet counters but DO NOT SHOW! I am trained as a civil engineer in water supply and sewage disposal so I have been overqualified at processing the complaints from the cheap, inactive chewers and spitters who complain about the effort of many others to entertain them.
Lindsay Smith

[Anonymous]

I am a member of the core group so that I support the standardization of products within the hobby. I have worked on several events. I have been a contest judge and Regional Committee Chairman. I have noticed that the sloppy folks complain about rivet counters but DO NOT SHOW! I am trained as a civil engineer in water supply and sewage disposal so I have been overqualified at processing the complaints from the cheap, inactive chewers and spitters who complain about the effort of many others to entertain them.
Lindsay Smith

[Anonymous]

I joined the NMRA to find out what others were doing. I not only found great modelers, but more so, great friends. There are very few rivet counters, so that argument doesn't hold much water for me. I enjoy the Division meets, the Region meets, and the National meet as much as the non-NMRA clubs to which I belong. The NMRA pulls it all together for me.

[Anonymous]

I joined the NMRA to find out what others were doing. I not only found great modelers, but more so, great friends. There are very few rivet counters, so that argument doesn't hold much water for me. I enjoy the Division meets, the Region meets, and the National meet as much as the non-NMRA clubs to which I belong. The NMRA pulls it all together for me.

[Anonymous]

I am a registered member of this list, but, for some unknown reason my vote did not register. So I'll let er rip:

I have been in the hobby for more than 40 years. I have seen so many changes (most for the good, some bad) that it almost makes my head swim!! When first exposed to the NMRA, I felt then it was a "good ole boys network" and sadley today I still do. IMHO the NMRA is one of the things that hasn't changed in 40+ years.
Regards Tim

[Anonymous]

I am a registered member of this list, but, for some unknown reason my vote did not register. So I'll let er rip:

I have been in the hobby for more than 40 years. I have seen so many changes (most for the good, some bad) that it almost makes my head swim!! When first exposed to the NMRA, I felt then it was a "good ole boys network" and sadley today I still do. IMHO the NMRA is one of the things that hasn't changed in 40+ years.
Regards Tim

[ahuffman]

In my opinion, the social interaction with other MRRs is the biggest benefit of NMRA membership. I live in an area with an active division that meets almost every month so I get to meet people, see layouts and models and just generally have a good time. The annual jamboree is an all day event and then there are regional and national conventions when time and money permit.

You can also get more help from the people involved than from just the publications.

All in all, I'd say NMRA membership is one of my most valuable hobby activities.

[ahuffman]

In my opinion, the social interaction with other MRRs is the biggest benefit of NMRA membership. I live in an area with an active division that meets almost every month so I get to meet people, see layouts and models and just generally have a good time. The annual jamboree is an all day event and then there are regional and national conventions when time and money permit.

You can also get more help from the people involved than from just the publications.

All in all, I'd say NMRA membership is one of my most valuable hobby activities.

[dmikee]

NMRA needs to provide more 'tangible' benefits for its members, if its membership is to grow very much. I was disappointed in the bulletin and declined that when there was the option to do so.

[dmikee]

NMRA needs to provide more 'tangible' benefits for its members, if its membership is to grow very much. I was disappointed in the bulletin and declined that when there was the option to do so.

[grantha]

I am an NMRA member although only for the past couple of years. I have been a model railroader for the past 25+ years. The NMRA does need some work and it is making an effort to be more user friendly. IMHO the proposed changes to the NMRA that are posted on the NMRA website are a step in the right direction.

Through my membership in the NMRA I have gained access to some great model railroaders and lots of great people too (those great model railroaders I have meet are also great people). My access has been gained via regional and divisional meets. Also I have found newsletters from my division and region a great aid in keeping up with hobby developments.

The thing about getting services from the NMRA is to go out and get them. Those services are there for the asking.

[grantha]

I am an NMRA member although only for the past couple of years. I have been a model railroader for the past 25+ years. The NMRA does need some work and it is making an effort to be more user friendly. IMHO the proposed changes to the NMRA that are posted on the NMRA website are a step in the right direction.

Through my membership in the NMRA I have gained access to some great model railroaders and lots of great people too (those great model railroaders I have meet are also great people). My access has been gained via regional and divisional meets. Also I have found newsletters from my division and region a great aid in keeping up with hobby developments.

The thing about getting services from the NMRA is to go out and get them. Those services are there for the asking.

[Anonymous]

Been a model railroader for 15 years. Was into R/C previous to this. To fly, a person had to be a member of the AMA for the liability coverage. I like the idea I can enjoy my hobby without needing to be a member of a national org. However, I have always wondered if there are benefits to being a member, that exceed the cost of membership? I live in a remote part of the state. Any NMRA activity would likely take place 200 miles away.

[Anonymous]

Been a model railroader for 15 years. Was into R/C previous to this. To fly, a person had to be a member of the AMA for the liability coverage. I like the idea I can enjoy my hobby without needing to be a member of a national org. However, I have always wondered if there are benefits to being a member, that exceed the cost of membership? I live in a remote part of the state. Any NMRA activity would likely take place 200 miles away.

[Anonymous]

I got active as a modeler 6 years ago when I retired.
I joined NMRA 3 plus years ago.
I deem it very important to be an official part of HELPING this fine hobby survive. The NMRA,,to me,,does just that !

[Anonymous]

I got active as a modeler 6 years ago when I retired.
I joined NMRA 3 plus years ago.
I deem it very important to be an official part of HELPING this fine hobby survive. The NMRA,,to me,,does just that !

[Anonymous]

I have a good time at the meets and conventions. I like to attend the clinics, enter the modeling contests, play the switching contest, and just talk to other modelers. There is a wealth of information at these meets, and al in all, its quite worth it to be a member. You get out of it what you put into it, so once you start participating in all the activities, you will find you are having a good time.[:D]


Robert Ray
PCR Coast Division

[Anonymous]

I have a good time at the meets and conventions. I like to attend the clinics, enter the modeling contests, play the switching contest, and just talk to other modelers. There is a wealth of information at these meets, and al in all, its quite worth it to be a member. You get out of it what you put into it, so once you start participating in all the activities, you will find you are having a good time.[:D]


Robert Ray
PCR Coast Division

[Anonymous]

Guess i've been a loner for most of my life, and it's a little too late in life for me to change my ways now. I do appreciate, enjoy the displays at the MR shows I attend and marvel at some of craftsmanship type work I've seen, however at these shows, I meet with people not an association. The NMRA has accomplished some wonderful things, like standards for Model Railroading and without it's interventions in the hobby, perhaps model rail would still be in the tin plate era. When the modeling budget allows, perhaps I'll join, more as a supportive member than an active one.
Lonesome polecat

[Anonymous]

Guess i've been a loner for most of my life, and it's a little too late in life for me to change my ways now. I do appreciate, enjoy the displays at the MR shows I attend and marvel at some of craftsmanship type work I've seen, however at these shows, I meet with people not an association. The NMRA has accomplished some wonderful things, like standards for Model Railroading and without it's interventions in the hobby, perhaps model rail would still be in the tin plate era. When the modeling budget allows, perhaps I'll join, more as a supportive member than an active one.
Lonesome polecat

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Bergie

Do you belong to the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA)? Vote then share your comments below.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Bergie

Do you belong to the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA)? Vote then share your comments below.

[wrobwrob]

I used to be a member. I dropped out a couple of years ago when the big dues increase went into effect. (I might join again just to attend a national convention.) I think the NMRA honchos are still being unrealistic about financing their organization. Sell the headquarters! Contract out the library to a university! Most of all, rescind those cheap life memberships! I simply cannot believe it takes so much ca***o run an organization of hobby volunteers.

[wrobwrob]

I used to be a member. I dropped out a couple of years ago when the big dues increase went into effect. (I might join again just to attend a national convention.) I think the NMRA honchos are still being unrealistic about financing their organization. Sell the headquarters! Contract out the library to a university! Most of all, rescind those cheap life memberships! I simply cannot believe it takes so much ca***o run an organization of hobby volunteers.

[Anonymous]

I have been an NMRA member since 1987, a NFR member & COD Division member for the same length of time. I finally got to attend a National Convention ( Maple Leaf 2003 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada), only because I live an hour's drive north of Toronto. Up until then, my financial conditions prevented me from traveling any great lengths and staying in hotels/motels to attend a National Convention.
I do participate in the NFR's Modeler's Corner at Train Shows as much as possible, to promote the hobby, learn from other model railroaders as well.
I think the NMRA organization has done much for the hobby, but has fallen behind the times, but with the new Long Range Plan, the updated Scale Rails magazine, and change of focus towards the "times they are a-changing" era, I think they are on the right track.
I have read some emails concerning a Canadian NMRA, not as a seperate association, but as a partner with the present NMRA to provide input reguarding Canadian members wants and needs. I think this could be a good thing, as long as I wouldn't be required to pay membership dues to both associations. That I could not afford.
Well, that's my thoughts on the subject.

Moemann

[Anonymous]

I have been an NMRA member since 1987, a NFR member & COD Division member for the same length of time. I finally got to attend a National Convention ( Maple Leaf 2003 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada), only because I live an hour's drive north of Toronto. Up until then, my financial conditions prevented me from traveling any great lengths and staying in hotels/motels to attend a National Convention.
I do participate in the NFR's Modeler's Corner at Train Shows as much as possible, to promote the hobby, learn from other model railroaders as well.
I think the NMRA organization has done much for the hobby, but has fallen behind the times, but with the new Long Range Plan, the updated Scale Rails magazine, and change of focus towards the "times they are a-changing" era, I think they are on the right track.
I have read some emails concerning a Canadian NMRA, not as a seperate association, but as a partner with the present NMRA to provide input reguarding Canadian members wants and needs. I think this could be a good thing, as long as I wouldn't be required to pay membership dues to both associations. That I could not afford.
Well, that's my thoughts on the subject.

Moemann

[Yampa2003]

I joined the NMRA 4 years ago. Over here there is a very active social scene and our Division have their own HO scale model with an N scale one under construction. But then I am biased as I am the Secretary of our Division.
Brian

[Yampa2003]

I joined the NMRA 4 years ago. Over here there is a very active social scene and our Division have their own HO scale model with an N scale one under construction. But then I am biased as I am the Secretary of our Division.
Brian

[Anonymous]

I find it has a lot to offer and I can always learn better ways to do things and have fun a the same time. To me MR is an art. Well worth it.

[Anonymous]

I find it has a lot to offer and I can always learn better ways to do things and have fun a the same time. To me MR is an art. Well worth it.

[Anonymous]

I used to be a member, around 1996-97. But that was when my Dad was paying the bills! :) Now, in college, I don't have the money to burn to join an organization that has very few benifits that I can partake in. I don't have a lot of time (marching Band will do that to you!), and I can't afford to travel long distances to conventions, though I would like to.

I agree that the NMRA has done a lot of good things for this hobby with their standardization of products. Without them, we would probably still be stuck with tinplate (if they even stayed in business).

However, for me I think this is a case of cost outweighing the benefits. Maybe if they threw in a subscription to MR (another thing that cost too much, imho), then I might consider it.

[Anonymous]

I used to be a member, around 1996-97. But that was when my Dad was paying the bills! :) Now, in college, I don't have the money to burn to join an organization that has very few benifits that I can partake in. I don't have a lot of time (marching Band will do that to you!), and I can't afford to travel long distances to conventions, though I would like to.

I agree that the NMRA has done a lot of good things for this hobby with their standardization of products. Without them, we would probably still be stuck with tinplate (if they even stayed in business).

However, for me I think this is a case of cost outweighing the benefits. Maybe if they threw in a subscription to MR (another thing that cost too much, imho), then I might consider it.

[Anonymous]

Bergie,
In Canada, the membership is $88 Canadian, only $12 shy of a hundred. It isn't worth it. In ten years you've shelled out $880. I started a thread in the Atlas forum about 6 months ago suggesting that the NMRA begin to structure itself like the American Automobile Association.

In other words, there would be the Model Railway Association, the American Model Railway Association, the Canadian Model Railway Association, the Australian..., the British...., you get the picture. Why is this important, because the country of association would have its own dues. When you translate American dollars into other foreign dollars the membership fee gets almost bizzarre.

If the Canadian membership were more like the American one, I might join. The NMRA is pricing itself out of existence, and I'm afraid in other countries, it is doing that. I suspect if there were a Canadian Model Railway Association, like we have the Canadian Automobile Association we a "Canadian" dues rate, more would belong.

[Anonymous]

Bergie,
In Canada, the membership is $88 Canadian, only $12 shy of a hundred. It isn't worth it. In ten years you've shelled out $880. I started a thread in the Atlas forum about 6 months ago suggesting that the NMRA begin to structure itself like the American Automobile Association.

In other words, there would be the Model Railway Association, the American Model Railway Association, the Canadian Model Railway Association, the Australian..., the British...., you get the picture. Why is this important, because the country of association would have its own dues. When you translate American dollars into other foreign dollars the membership fee gets almost bizzarre.

If the Canadian membership were more like the American one, I might join. The NMRA is pricing itself out of existence, and I'm afraid in other countries, it is doing that. I suspect if there were a Canadian Model Railway Association, like we have the Canadian Automobile Association we a "Canadian" dues rate, more would belong.

[Anonymous]

I used to belong but I feel guilty that I let my membership lapse. If it wasn't for dedicated NMRA members that keep things going, nothing would be happening in this town. I certainly have taken advantage of the layout tours, clinics and meets that they have orginized. I need to reinlist.

Mike Laine

[Anonymous]

I used to belong but I feel guilty that I let my membership lapse. If it wasn't for dedicated NMRA members that keep things going, nothing would be happening in this town. I certainly have taken advantage of the layout tours, clinics and meets that they have orginized. I need to reinlist.

Mike Laine

[spken]

I have been a member of NMRA since 1963. I joined to be part of an organisation that promotes the hobby, shares its ideas & hints as well as setting the standards that benefit everyone, not just members.
I live in a remote area of Australia, so only get to local division meets & regional conventions in Australia. Wouldn't miss it for anything. In my experience, NMRA members are "fair dinkum" modellers, always willing to help newcommers or experienced modellers alike.

spken

[spken]

I have been a member of NMRA since 1963. I joined to be part of an organisation that promotes the hobby, shares its ideas & hints as well as setting the standards that benefit everyone, not just members.
I live in a remote area of Australia, so only get to local division meets & regional conventions in Australia. Wouldn't miss it for anything. In my experience, NMRA members are "fair dinkum" modellers, always willing to help newcommers or experienced modellers alike.

spken

[Anonymous]

Living in Australia, I joined the NMRA to obtain more information about my chosen area of modelling, i.e. SP and California. The Infopak has been very helpful for Data Sheets, Standards etc. BUT try to join the local chapter? Too hard, too many self centred members and/or clubs interested in their own agendas. I gave up trying to join the Aussie chapter after 18months and let my membership lapse after 5 years. No regrets

Ed

[Anonymous]

Living in Australia, I joined the NMRA to obtain more information about my chosen area of modelling, i.e. SP and California. The Infopak has been very helpful for Data Sheets, Standards etc. BUT try to join the local chapter? Too hard, too many self centred members and/or clubs interested in their own agendas. I gave up trying to join the Aussie chapter after 18months and let my membership lapse after 5 years. No regrets

Ed

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: .
....I am trained as a civil engineer in water supply and sewage disposal so I have been overqualified at processing the complaints from the cheap, inactive chewers and spitters who complain about the effort of many others to entertain them.
Lindsay Smith

Living way too close to a sewage treatment plant, I didn't realize until now that the operators were "entertaining" us around here. Why no viewing windows in the tanks, like at Sea World ?I'm surprised there's no fee for inhaling....mind you, there's a penalty.[xx(][xx(]

Seriously folks, there's no right answer here, just diverse opinion.
The poll so far is VERY inaccurate, ( and will probably remain so )as the NMRA could only dream of that kind of percentage membership, or even half of it.[:I]
There are joiners and non-joiners, in every walk of life. Take service work. You know, clubs like Lions' and Rotary do outstanding service work all over the world. BUT hundreds of thousands of people perform service work in their communities,
without ever joining these clubs.
I used to be a Lion [ 15 years ]... I still do service work....but I got tired of paying for dinner meetings that I didn't wi***o attend any more,especially with members who didn't show up for the work parties.[V]

The technical initiatives of organized groups are always used by the non-member masses, whether it's the NMRA, SAE, CSA, EPA, UL, or whatever.

I've never been an NMRA member.
In the past 30-40 years or so, I've shown a lot of beginners how to lay track, assemble kits, do buildings from scratch, whatever.
And how to buy products wisely.[8D]
regards \ Mike

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: .
....I am trained as a civil engineer in water supply and sewage disposal so I have been overqualified at processing the complaints from the cheap, inactive chewers and spitters who complain about the effort of many others to entertain them.
Lindsay Smith

Living way too close to a sewage treatment plant, I didn't realize until now that the operators were "entertaining" us around here. Why no viewing windows in the tanks, like at Sea World ?I'm surprised there's no fee for inhaling....mind you, there's a penalty.[xx(][xx(]

Seriously folks, there's no right answer here, just diverse opinion.
The poll so far is VERY inaccurate, ( and will probably remain so )as the NMRA could only dream of that kind of percentage membership, or even half of it.[:I]
There are joiners and non-joiners, in every walk of life. Take service work. You know, clubs like Lions' and Rotary do outstanding service work all over the world. BUT hundreds of thousands of people perform service work in their communities,
without ever joining these clubs.
I used to be a Lion [ 15 years ]... I still do service work....but I got tired of paying for dinner meetings that I didn't wi***o attend any more,especially with members who didn't show up for the work parties.[V]

The technical initiatives of organized groups are always used by the non-member masses, whether it's the NMRA, SAE, CSA, EPA, UL, or whatever.

I've never been an NMRA member.
In the past 30-40 years or so, I've shown a lot of beginners how to lay track, assemble kits, do buildings from scratch, whatever.
And how to buy products wisely.[8D]
regards \ Mike

[CNJ831]

As Robmik comments, so far these poll results are dramatically skewed in suggesting a large percentage of hobbyists are NMRA members. In actual fact, the percentage of all model railroaders that are NMRA members is more in the order of 7-9% and this figure has been gradually shrinking since their last dues hike about two years ago. The potential of a further rise in dues in the near future will undoubtedly serve to demini***his figure even more, making any claim that NMRA represents the hobby in any significant fashion rather moot.

CNJ831

[CNJ831]

As Robmik comments, so far these poll results are dramatically skewed in suggesting a large percentage of hobbyists are NMRA members. In actual fact, the percentage of all model railroaders that are NMRA members is more in the order of 7-9% and this figure has been gradually shrinking since their last dues hike about two years ago. The potential of a further rise in dues in the near future will undoubtedly serve to demini***his figure even more, making any claim that NMRA represents the hobby in any significant fashion rather moot.

CNJ831

[MAbruce]

Not a member, never have been, and won't likely be one. I've looked over the membership benefits and they really don't interest me. The whole thing seems like something people use more to impress others (putting it by their name, or Ad's as a title). I'm not into that.

I enjoy the hobby enough, thanks.

[MAbruce]

Not a member, never have been, and won't likely be one. I've looked over the membership benefits and they really don't interest me. The whole thing seems like something people use more to impress others (putting it by their name, or Ad's as a title). I'm not into that.

I enjoy the hobby enough, thanks.

[Anonymous]

As a one-time member, I did not feel that I got very much out of belonging to the NMRA.
To me, their greatest benefit to all modelers is standardization. Perhaps I could have availed myself to more of the services offered, but did not.

When NMRA increased dues a couple of years ago, I decided that it was even less worth belonging, and decided not to renew my membership

Rich Witt

[Anonymous]

As a one-time member, I did not feel that I got very much out of belonging to the NMRA.
To me, their greatest benefit to all modelers is standardization. Perhaps I could have availed myself to more of the services offered, but did not.

When NMRA increased dues a couple of years ago, I decided that it was even less worth belonging, and decided not to renew my membership

Rich Witt

[Anonymous]

Why should I pay somebody money to enjoy model railroading more that I already do. I rather use the money towards another engine or rolling stock.[:)]

[Anonymous]

Why should I pay somebody money to enjoy model railroading more that I already do. I rather use the money towards another engine or rolling stock.[:)]

[Anonymous]

I have been a member for over 10 years. As one of the posts have stated that it is only as good as the members. As in any organization there are jerks and arrogant air heads.

I have been to plenty of regional and divisional conventions and 1 national. Each one I obtained good information and met plenty of nice and knowledgeable modelers.

Yes, I do get disgusted with some of the things..ie... the new dues structure, but overall it has been worth the money.

The NMRA has changed in the last few years by trying to get involved in other scales. Overall, it has been a good experience.

Mike Lee
Tonopah and Goldfield in N

[Anonymous]

I have been a member for over 10 years. As one of the posts have stated that it is only as good as the members. As in any organization there are jerks and arrogant air heads.

I have been to plenty of regional and divisional conventions and 1 national. Each one I obtained good information and met plenty of nice and knowledgeable modelers.

Yes, I do get disgusted with some of the things..ie... the new dues structure, but overall it has been worth the money.

The NMRA has changed in the last few years by trying to get involved in other scales. Overall, it has been a good experience.

Mike Lee
Tonopah and Goldfield in N

[Anonymous]

I have been an NMRA member since 1976. I have been to three Nationals: Eugene, Pittsburgh and San Jose. Each time it was a great experience. I do regret that can not attend all Nationals, the cost of travel (I live in the Netherlands) makes that impossible. I have visited Chattanooga and was proud to see our HQ. I have used the services of the library more than once and they've always been a great help. Thru the years I have met many model rails that I now call friends. I've learned a lot from all of them and maybe I gave them some in return. I feel every dollar was well spend. I don't think I would like to do wthout them. Don't think they are sleeping now, oh no, they are very hard at work, those VOLUNTEERS, for the benefit of the modeller.

[Anonymous]

I have been an NMRA member since 1976. I have been to three Nationals: Eugene, Pittsburgh and San Jose. Each time it was a great experience. I do regret that can not attend all Nationals, the cost of travel (I live in the Netherlands) makes that impossible. I have visited Chattanooga and was proud to see our HQ. I have used the services of the library more than once and they've always been a great help. Thru the years I have met many model rails that I now call friends. I've learned a lot from all of them and maybe I gave them some in return. I feel every dollar was well spend. I don't think I would like to do wthout them. Don't think they are sleeping now, oh no, they are very hard at work, those VOLUNTEERS, for the benefit of the modeller.

[Anonymous]

I have been a member of the NMRA for over 50 years and it urkes me to see comments like, what is there for me!! The whole model industry as we know it today is there for you and most of it is thanks to the NMRA. Everything we do in our model empires, has a root in the organization. I was there in the Mantua horn-hook days and beleive me the NMRA has made a diference and is continuing to do so. Their power is solely with the vounteers, so dont knok it, join it. John Pollard # 033870

[Anonymous]

I have been a member of the NMRA for over 50 years and it urkes me to see comments like, what is there for me!! The whole model industry as we know it today is there for you and most of it is thanks to the NMRA. Everything we do in our model empires, has a root in the organization. I was there in the Mantua horn-hook days and beleive me the NMRA has made a diference and is continuing to do so. Their power is solely with the vounteers, so dont knok it, join it. John Pollard # 033870

[JohnCarty]

I reaped the benefits of the NMRA's efforts for almost 20 years before joining. I have kids so I do not attend conventions anly local events and meets.

Meeting people and supporting efforts at standardizing product is worth the cost. It's wonderful to purchase and item and know that it will mesh with material you already have. Let's face it, buying a $100 engine and finding that it will not fit on your track after you get it home SUCKS.

As mush as the dues cost, for the aformentioned reason alone it is money well spent. Getting to meet new people and learn not only new tecniques and information but also where your skills stand makes it a bargain.

[JohnCarty]

I reaped the benefits of the NMRA's efforts for almost 20 years before joining. I have kids so I do not attend conventions anly local events and meets.

Meeting people and supporting efforts at standardizing product is worth the cost. It's wonderful to purchase and item and know that it will mesh with material you already have. Let's face it, buying a $100 engine and finding that it will not fit on your track after you get it home SUCKS.

As mush as the dues cost, for the aformentioned reason alone it is money well spent. Getting to meet new people and learn not only new tecniques and information but also where your skills stand makes it a bargain.

[Anonymous]

I've twice belonged, but I found there was no value in it for me: . The web site is free, and it isn't too bad. The library is accessable for a fee, so when I need to do research, I can still use that. (But interlibrary loan sure works well; the one book I couldn't get through ILL, the NMRA library didn't have either.) There are a lot of other so-called benefits, but discounts on things I don't want don't count for much in my book. Only two benefits come to mind that are worth paying for year in, year out: the meets/convetions and the Bulletin.

I can't afford the time (or the money) to go to the meets. Besides, the meets are filled with 'good ole boys' groups that I haven't got the 40 years of seniority to crash. I might be able to find more time to go if the events were more kid friendly, but I don't want to subject mine to the language and dirty looks that I've seen other peoples (good) kids subjected to.

That leaves the Bulleten. However, the commercial press does a much better job of covering new products and even their own conventions. The editorial content is a repetitive snooze: ("we are going to spend umpteen dollars to benefit these three members who actually live close enough to use it", "we need more money", "why are we losing members", and, in July "welcome new member(s)". ) The remaining few articles are OK, but I'd rather spend the money on scale-specific magazines (The 'N' in NMRA, does not stand for N-scale...)

Yes, everything the NMRA has done for standards in the past was wonderful. But it isn't doing anything new for me today. (Let's see, weights and wheel countours were defined around 1935. DCC was defined around 1995. Hmmm... OK, I'll join again a little before 2055 and support the next big thing!)

[Anonymous]

I've twice belonged, but I found there was no value in it for me: . The web site is free, and it isn't too bad. The library is accessable for a fee, so when I need to do research, I can still use that. (But interlibrary loan sure works well; the one book I couldn't get through ILL, the NMRA library didn't have either.) There are a lot of other so-called benefits, but discounts on things I don't want don't count for much in my book. Only two benefits come to mind that are worth paying for year in, year out: the meets/convetions and the Bulletin.

I can't afford the time (or the money) to go to the meets. Besides, the meets are filled with 'good ole boys' groups that I haven't got the 40 years of seniority to crash. I might be able to find more time to go if the events were more kid friendly, but I don't want to subject mine to the language and dirty looks that I've seen other peoples (good) kids subjected to.

That leaves the Bulleten. However, the commercial press does a much better job of covering new products and even their own conventions. The editorial content is a repetitive snooze: ("we are going to spend umpteen dollars to benefit these three members who actually live close enough to use it", "we need more money", "why are we losing members", and, in July "welcome new member(s)". ) The remaining few articles are OK, but I'd rather spend the money on scale-specific magazines (The 'N' in NMRA, does not stand for N-scale...)

Yes, everything the NMRA has done for standards in the past was wonderful. But it isn't doing anything new for me today. (Let's see, weights and wheel countours were defined around 1935. DCC was defined around 1995. Hmmm... OK, I'll join again a little before 2055 and support the next big thing!)

[Anonymous]

I belonged for a couple of years about 15 years ago. They were the biggest bunch of snobbish, uninformed, nit-picking "vesties" that I'd ever seen. I finally met some "real" modellers and I haven't looked back since.

[Anonymous]

I belonged for a couple of years about 15 years ago. They were the biggest bunch of snobbish, uninformed, nit-picking "vesties" that I'd ever seen. I finally met some "real" modellers and I haven't looked back since.

[aolsen]

Yes, and proud to be a life member.

[aolsen]

Yes, and proud to be a life member.

[Anonymous]

I live so far out of the way I doubt I would be able to benefit from very many activities the association has to offer. Also, I very much dislike being a shadow member of any ortganization. If a person joins, then one must be active, and help build rather than nitpick and destroy. Billeubank posted the type of message I could live with! If I move to an area with an active group of participants, I will certainly consider joining.

[Anonymous]

I live so far out of the way I doubt I would be able to benefit from very many activities the association has to offer. Also, I very much dislike being a shadow member of any ortganization. If a person joins, then one must be active, and help build rather than nitpick and destroy. Billeubank posted the type of message I could live with! If I move to an area with an active group of participants, I will certainly consider joining.

[douginut]

In the 1980's I joined the national nmra.. I thought in my uninformed way that I had joined the NMRA. I hadn't. Arriving at a local NMRA gathering I discovered that to be a LOCAL NMRA member I needed to fork out again. I didnt. I'm sure that the year's dues to the national NMRA helped and contributed to it's functioining. In retrospect I consider the money spent to have been in hobby terms "completely wasted". While after having the kids grow up and move away has allowed me a more substancial budget for the hobby I still see no good reason to "buy in" to a national organization and a regional and a local.
There MUST be a better way of handling this!

Doug, in Utah

[douginut]

In the 1980's I joined the national nmra.. I thought in my uninformed way that I had joined the NMRA. I hadn't. Arriving at a local NMRA gathering I discovered that to be a LOCAL NMRA member I needed to fork out again. I didnt. I'm sure that the year's dues to the national NMRA helped and contributed to it's functioining. In retrospect I consider the money spent to have been in hobby terms "completely wasted". While after having the kids grow up and move away has allowed me a more substancial budget for the hobby I still see no good reason to "buy in" to a national organization and a regional and a local.
There MUST be a better way of handling this!

Doug, in Utah

[gwjordan1950]

The NMRA is for all modelers. Even now they are recognizing the O scale modelers. At one time ,if you would say O scale to a NMRA or any "Scale" modeler, they would look down their nose at you. Times change as does people. We are all in it for modeling, the enjoyment of running your trains,and, to watch those little pair of eyes on the other side of the layout, just Gleeming to see that diesel or steam engine coming straight at them. Then they ask, "How many cars do you have on there?" We are in this hobby ,either to,promote the hobby, in local areas as I do,or go to the national level. Go to your swap meets or to GATS, and you'll see Dad's, Son's, and Grandpa's and yes,the Women are just as much Lovers of trains as we are! It is our job as NMRA members to keep the hobby progressing with the new technology as it arises. As V-P of our MVRR club in Ft. Wayne, I have only been active in "model" railroading for 3 yrs. I have benn running trains for enjoyment since I've been old enough to move a throttle into "Run-8!" I enjoy our hobby and am PROUD to be a NMRA member!!!!!!

[gwjordan1950]

The NMRA is for all modelers. Even now they are recognizing the O scale modelers. At one time ,if you would say O scale to a NMRA or any "Scale" modeler, they would look down their nose at you. Times change as does people. We are all in it for modeling, the enjoyment of running your trains,and, to watch those little pair of eyes on the other side of the layout, just Gleeming to see that diesel or steam engine coming straight at them. Then they ask, "How many cars do you have on there?" We are in this hobby ,either to,promote the hobby, in local areas as I do,or go to the national level. Go to your swap meets or to GATS, and you'll see Dad's, Son's, and Grandpa's and yes,the Women are just as much Lovers of trains as we are! It is our job as NMRA members to keep the hobby progressing with the new technology as it arises. As V-P of our MVRR club in Ft. Wayne, I have only been active in "model" railroading for 3 yrs. I have benn running trains for enjoyment since I've been old enough to move a throttle into "Run-8!" I enjoy our hobby and am PROUD to be a NMRA member!!!!!!

[Anonymous]

I build to satisfy myself, I'm not going to compete with world of modelers, therefore I avoid the "contests". Supporting the hobby, and the standards which make it more enjoyable is important to all of us. For this reason, and thier publications, are the best reasons to fund the NMRA by membership.

[Anonymous]

I build to satisfy myself, I'm not going to compete with world of modelers, therefore I avoid the "contests". Supporting the hobby, and the standards which make it more enjoyable is important to all of us. For this reason, and thier publications, are the best reasons to fund the NMRA by membership.

[CP5415]

I don't belong to the NMRA. I have no intention of joining. I simply don't have the time right now to invest the time needed to get my money's worth out of it.

Gordon

[CP5415]

I don't belong to the NMRA. I have no intention of joining. I simply don't have the time right now to invest the time needed to get my money's worth out of it.

Gordon

[Anonymous]

Yes I am a member and enjoy the local clinics put on by our division,I have considered dropping my membership but have decided to wait and see what happens with the new changes, I hope for the better!.I dont like the Bulletin it has to much in ads and not enough meat,they dont have to compete with MR and RMC.I prefer the old black and white bulletin,does that date me?. as for the rivit counters let them, as for me and my RR. I will run what I want and like,I just assume the prototype did not have the time and money to do the things I have done with my equipment, It is what I feel they would have done if possible, and I am happy with it, is not that the reason we are in this hobby anyway,so just do your own thing and let other people do theirs and we will all have a great time in this Great Hobby.One other thing since I have your eyes on this letter how about some conventions that are not so expensive, by the time you take a few tours you are tapped out of a months retirement check,how about some help for the retired and also the disabled railroaders,it is just a thought,and a discount at the local hobby shop would sure help,maybe just maybe we would shop local more often and shy away from Ebay and internet stores.Just remember Model RR is fun..

[Anonymous]

Yes I am a member and enjoy the local clinics put on by our division,I have considered dropping my membership but have decided to wait and see what happens with the new changes, I hope for the better!.I dont like the Bulletin it has to much in ads and not enough meat,they dont have to compete with MR and RMC.I prefer the old black and white bulletin,does that date me?. as for the rivit counters let them, as for me and my RR. I will run what I want and like,I just assume the prototype did not have the time and money to do the things I have done with my equipment, It is what I feel they would have done if possible, and I am happy with it, is not that the reason we are in this hobby anyway,so just do your own thing and let other people do theirs and we will all have a great time in this Great Hobby.One other thing since I have your eyes on this letter how about some conventions that are not so expensive, by the time you take a few tours you are tapped out of a months retirement check,how about some help for the retired and also the disabled railroaders,it is just a thought,and a discount at the local hobby shop would sure help,maybe just maybe we would shop local more often and shy away from Ebay and internet stores.Just remember Model RR is fun..

[Anonymous]

Must getting on for 20 or so years since I joined and I have not regretted one minute of it. I was in the UK when I joined the NMRA and attended a few of the UK conventions. I have learned a lot thru the association. Since moving to NewZealand and living in the deep south I am unable to attend the conventions or meets, but I still retain my membership.I live in Riverton NZ which is a small town near Invercargill. Are there any members this far south in the who lives there permanantly. Not like Mc Murdo in the Antarctic who are not permanant. Also are their any members in my vacinity. South of Dunedin

[Anonymous]

Must getting on for 20 or so years since I joined and I have not regretted one minute of it. I was in the UK when I joined the NMRA and attended a few of the UK conventions. I have learned a lot thru the association. Since moving to NewZealand and living in the deep south I am unable to attend the conventions or meets, but I still retain my membership.I live in Riverton NZ which is a small town near Invercargill. Are there any members this far south in the who lives there permanantly. Not like Mc Murdo in the Antarctic who are not permanant. Also are their any members in my vacinity. South of Dunedin

[IRONROOSTER]

I have been a member for 30 years and while I have attended only a couple of Division meets I feel that the overall program especially the standards are worthwhile.
Enjoy
Paul

[IRONROOSTER]

I have been a member for 30 years and while I have attended only a couple of Division meets I feel that the overall program especially the standards are worthwhile.
Enjoy
Paul

[Anonymous]

Well, I am somewhat more than a few hundred miles/kilometres away from just all of you, but I've found a local branch/chapter/hood/whatever it sieves out to here in S.E. Queensland. I'm not a member as yet as I'm waiting for some more train finances to be appropriated.. But I'm interested in joining as I'm a lone wolf at my end of Brisbane and have some skills to share and have seen some of others I could learn from.
Most of these guys are moving into On30 as it happens and logging at that. (Many of them in the same loop as Geoff Knot et al). I'm keen to pick up more skills even though I'm doing HO Urban branch and 1:20.3 in the garden..
It takes ,I'm told, about 2-3 hours for a meeting and official business 5-10 minutes of that usually.. so that works for me.

[Anonymous]

Well, I am somewhat more than a few hundred miles/kilometres away from just all of you, but I've found a local branch/chapter/hood/whatever it sieves out to here in S.E. Queensland. I'm not a member as yet as I'm waiting for some more train finances to be appropriated.. But I'm interested in joining as I'm a lone wolf at my end of Brisbane and have some skills to share and have seen some of others I could learn from.
Most of these guys are moving into On30 as it happens and logging at that. (Many of them in the same loop as Geoff Knot et al). I'm keen to pick up more skills even though I'm doing HO Urban branch and 1:20.3 in the garden..
It takes ,I'm told, about 2-3 hours for a meeting and official business 5-10 minutes of that usually.. so that works for me.

[lwolohon]

I have been an NMRA member 30+ yrs, life member 20+ yrs & became an MMR 3yrs ago. I have much enjoyed the commodrie & meeting others in the hobby through the years. I have learned a lot from being an NMRA member. The dues may seem to be pricey, however if you can afford to be in the Model RRing hobby, the dues are insignificant. The standards from way back to the new ones for DCC are very worthwhile. This organization is like most other organizations, you get out what you put in. For what its worth, Larry Wolohon

[lwolohon]

I have been an NMRA member 30+ yrs, life member 20+ yrs & became an MMR 3yrs ago. I have much enjoyed the commodrie & meeting others in the hobby through the years. I have learned a lot from being an NMRA member. The dues may seem to be pricey, however if you can afford to be in the Model RRing hobby, the dues are insignificant. The standards from way back to the new ones for DCC are very worthwhile. This organization is like most other organizations, you get out what you put in. For what its worth, Larry Wolohon

[traindog]

Those of you that don't see the benifit of belonging to the NMRA, you'd better look again. All you DCC users can thank the NMRA for you being able to operate on different layouts, with possobly only changing the address of your loco. Do you really think the manufacturers really settled on standards for your gauge all by themselves? If you operate in HO, you can operate on ANY HO layout in the world, thanks to the NMRA. O scale, N scale? all work the same, thanks to the NMRA. The NMRA diserves your support. I became a Life member a long time ago, and tho not currently active in my division, I intend to again soon. As for the Bulletin, it's a good publication, as with all the publications, some are more interesting to me than others, but overall a good magazine.

[traindog]

Those of you that don't see the benifit of belonging to the NMRA, you'd better look again. All you DCC users can thank the NMRA for you being able to operate on different layouts, with possobly only changing the address of your loco. Do you really think the manufacturers really settled on standards for your gauge all by themselves? If you operate in HO, you can operate on ANY HO layout in the world, thanks to the NMRA. O scale, N scale? all work the same, thanks to the NMRA. The NMRA diserves your support. I became a Life member a long time ago, and tho not currently active in my division, I intend to again soon. As for the Bulletin, it's a good publication, as with all the publications, some are more interesting to me than others, but overall a good magazine.

[Anonymous]

I am thinking about joining. Support organizations are important for overall positive growth in any industry; it should apply to hobbies also......I think. What is IMHO?

[Anonymous]

I am thinking about joining. Support organizations are important for overall positive growth in any industry; it should apply to hobbies also......I think. What is IMHO?

[dknelson]

I am a member
Where I live (Milwaukee WI) the NMRA Division is really central to the hobby. I am aware that in some places the Division is all but invisible. Of course having Walthers and Kalmbach and Maerklin and Brio in town helps make the local hobby scene active.
I would belong to the NMRA regardless of the bulletin. This is my hobby, it is important to me, and that is the one national organization devoted to the hobby.
Dave Nelson

[dknelson]

I am a member
Where I live (Milwaukee WI) the NMRA Division is really central to the hobby. I am aware that in some places the Division is all but invisible. Of course having Walthers and Kalmbach and Maerklin and Brio in town helps make the local hobby scene active.
I would belong to the NMRA regardless of the bulletin. This is my hobby, it is important to me, and that is the one national organization devoted to the hobby.
Dave Nelson

[BRAKIE]

At one time I was a strong member of the NMRA..That all changed when the local division became a good old boys club with buddy-buddy groups that was stand offi***oward each other because of their modeling styles.

[BRAKIE]

At one time I was a strong member of the NMRA..That all changed when the local division became a good old boys club with buddy-buddy groups that was stand offi***oward each other because of their modeling styles.

[Anonymous]

N ot
M aterially
R elevent
A nymore

Don't see value for cost. And I damn sure will not forgive them for letting the insurance agents control them - cancelling the Toronto show. I smell an overhaul in the wind - that or sagebrush drifting aimlessly . . . .[xx(]

[Anonymous]

N ot
M aterially
R elevent
A nymore

Don't see value for cost. And I damn sure will not forgive them for letting the insurance agents control them - cancelling the Toronto show. I smell an overhaul in the wind - that or sagebrush drifting aimlessly . . . .[xx(]

[ThatNScaleGuy]

I have been an NMRA member for over 25 years now, and an N-Scaler for over 20 + years. If you don't want to have a membership in the NMRA, FINE WITH ME! I know how much the NMRA has added to my hobby and will continue to support the NMRA as long as I can. Sure the NMRA has a few problems, but what club hasn't? I am active on the local level, and have seen a lot of top of the line model railroads, and even operated a few of them also. You will also learn a lot of different ways to upgrade your modeling, and also meet a great class of friendly people. So if you are NOT a member, you are missing a lot of good model railroading!

[ThatNScaleGuy]

I have been an NMRA member for over 25 years now, and an N-Scaler for over 20 + years. If you don't want to have a membership in the NMRA, FINE WITH ME! I know how much the NMRA has added to my hobby and will continue to support the NMRA as long as I can. Sure the NMRA has a few problems, but what club hasn't? I am active on the local level, and have seen a lot of top of the line model railroads, and even operated a few of them also. You will also learn a lot of different ways to upgrade your modeling, and also meet a great class of friendly people. So if you are NOT a member, you are missing a lot of good model railroading!

[Anonymous]

Having read all the posts the common themes appear to be "it costs too much" in the "anti" camp and "look at the camaraderie" in the "pro" camp.

Let me nail my colours to the mast. I am not, nor am I ever likely to be, a member.

For a limey it is way too expensive.

As for the camaraderie, I don't have to join the NMRA to get that, there are plenty of local clubs and exhibitions where you can get that. Indeed you probably get more "buzz for your bucks" from those than from NMRA memebrship.

Tim Tumber,
Wiltshire,
England

[Anonymous]

Having read all the posts the common themes appear to be "it costs too much" in the "anti" camp and "look at the camaraderie" in the "pro" camp.

Let me nail my colours to the mast. I am not, nor am I ever likely to be, a member.

For a limey it is way too expensive.

As for the camaraderie, I don't have to join the NMRA to get that, there are plenty of local clubs and exhibitions where you can get that. Indeed you probably get more "buzz for your bucks" from those than from NMRA memebrship.

Tim Tumber,
Wiltshire,
England

[Anonymous]

Tim,
Would you join if the NMRA dues were cheaper, in your currency, and the money stayed in country. So there would be an organization called the "British Model Railway Association" which would be affiliated with the NMRA, and if travelling in the USA, your BMRA card would give you full entitlement to the rights and privileges of the NMRA member - I'm thinking shows here. And the American NMRA member would have like privileges in the BMRA.

In actual fact, the NMRA would become the AMRA (the American Model Railway Association).

[Anonymous]

Tim,
Would you join if the NMRA dues were cheaper, in your currency, and the money stayed in country. So there would be an organization called the "British Model Railway Association" which would be affiliated with the NMRA, and if travelling in the USA, your BMRA card would give you full entitlement to the rights and privileges of the NMRA member - I'm thinking shows here. And the American NMRA member would have like privileges in the BMRA.

In actual fact, the NMRA would become the AMRA (the American Model Railway Association).

[cacole]

I've been an NMRA member for several years, but will probably not renew. The membership cost is now $50 per year, and the organization seems to be nothing more than a self-glorification group of people who do nothing but brag about how great they all are; and it keeps getting worse with every issue of their Bulletin. Other than a discount on standards gauges and a CD ROM containing their standards and recommended practices, I haven't needed anything the NMRA has to offer, and their discount on those items is not worth the cost of the membership. I live in extreme South-east Arizona, which is supposedly in the Pacific something-or-other region of the NMRA. In addition to the $50 national membership fee, there was going to be an additional $30 or so Regional fee, for an organization consisting almost entirely of Californians. Their sample newsletter that I received was centered on what was happening in California, so there was no chance that I would ever be able or could afford to attend a Regional meet. They are having a convention in Phoenix, Arizona this year, but that is still 250 miles away. My main disappointment is the distances that must be traveled to meet other NMRA members, so in the sparsely populated desert southwest it's not worth it. People keep mentioning NMRA standards and recommended practices as a benefit -- but I'm sure the industry would have eventually adopted its own standards based on what people purchase, with those who manufacture things that are not standard going out of business. Look at the computer industry, for example. IBM set the standard for computer design without any outside organization telling them they had to or else.

[cacole]

I've been an NMRA member for several years, but will probably not renew. The membership cost is now $50 per year, and the organization seems to be nothing more than a self-glorification group of people who do nothing but brag about how great they all are; and it keeps getting worse with every issue of their Bulletin. Other than a discount on standards gauges and a CD ROM containing their standards and recommended practices, I haven't needed anything the NMRA has to offer, and their discount on those items is not worth the cost of the membership. I live in extreme South-east Arizona, which is supposedly in the Pacific something-or-other region of the NMRA. In addition to the $50 national membership fee, there was going to be an additional $30 or so Regional fee, for an organization consisting almost entirely of Californians. Their sample newsletter that I received was centered on what was happening in California, so there was no chance that I would ever be able or could afford to attend a Regional meet. They are having a convention in Phoenix, Arizona this year, but that is still 250 miles away. My main disappointment is the distances that must be traveled to meet other NMRA members, so in the sparsely populated desert southwest it's not worth it. People keep mentioning NMRA standards and recommended practices as a benefit -- but I'm sure the industry would have eventually adopted its own standards based on what people purchase, with those who manufacture things that are not standard going out of business. Look at the computer industry, for example. IBM set the standard for computer design without any outside organization telling them they had to or else.

[Anonymous]

I discovered the NMRA has nothing to offer me that I can not find in the modeling press or on the internet.

[Anonymous]

I discovered the NMRA has nothing to offer me that I can not find in the modeling press or on the internet.

[Anonymous]

I was a member in the early 90s but was a bit put out with the periodic newsletter that seemed to air more about the personality struggles within the organization than hobby related topics. I don't feel that I gained much from the organization but on the other hand I felt I was being forced into paying dues at the local and regional level. As far as the NMRA coordinating the industry into hobby standards, I'm sure the industry would have done that themselves. The cost of standardizing is passed along to the hobby anyways. I don't have an interest in the MMR awards, but I don't discount the program as a means of recognizing people who achieve a level of expertise that is hopefully shared with others. I haven't looked back at the NMRA because I enjoy my level of activity with the local modular club. My layout has grown to a full basement, DCC layout, employing most the tricks and techniques of the hobby, without being a member of the NMRA.
Looking at the membership level in the headline poll of this thread, I am under the impression that the NMRA needs to take a hard look at what they aren't doing right. I really don't know what it would take to draw me back into membership in the NMRA, but then there are a lot of other organizations relevant to what I do that I wouldn't find an interest in joining either.

[Anonymous]

I was a member in the early 90s but was a bit put out with the periodic newsletter that seemed to air more about the personality struggles within the organization than hobby related topics. I don't feel that I gained much from the organization but on the other hand I felt I was being forced into paying dues at the local and regional level. As far as the NMRA coordinating the industry into hobby standards, I'm sure the industry would have done that themselves. The cost of standardizing is passed along to the hobby anyways. I don't have an interest in the MMR awards, but I don't discount the program as a means of recognizing people who achieve a level of expertise that is hopefully shared with others. I haven't looked back at the NMRA because I enjoy my level of activity with the local modular club. My layout has grown to a full basement, DCC layout, employing most the tricks and techniques of the hobby, without being a member of the NMRA.
Looking at the membership level in the headline poll of this thread, I am under the impression that the NMRA needs to take a hard look at what they aren't doing right. I really don't know what it would take to draw me back into membership in the NMRA, but then there are a lot of other organizations relevant to what I do that I wouldn't find an interest in joining either.

[DTomajko]

I have been a member of the NMRA since 1990. I presently have to work weekends,(good pay keeps me from looking elsewhere),and don't get to any division meetings anymore.I miss talking with and learning from the many talented modelers in the Pittsburgh region.Some of these people are nationally known but most are not,but all helped to inspire me to try different projects and techniques.My modeling efforts have definately lagged since local division interaction ceased.The NMRA is only as good as it's individual members make it,lack of participation can doom any organization.By the way,everyone is not a rivet-counter in the NMRA,but why should inaccurate or sloppy modeling be rewarded with a title like "Master Model Railroader"?Any goal worth acheiving is only worth as much as the effort it takes to attain.Good luck and good modeling.

[DTomajko]

I have been a member of the NMRA since 1990. I presently have to work weekends,(good pay keeps me from looking elsewhere),and don't get to any division meetings anymore.I miss talking with and learning from the many talented modelers in the Pittsburgh region.Some of these people are nationally known but most are not,but all helped to inspire me to try different projects and techniques.My modeling efforts have definately lagged since local division interaction ceased.The NMRA is only as good as it's individual members make it,lack of participation can doom any organization.By the way,everyone is not a rivet-counter in the NMRA,but why should inaccurate or sloppy modeling be rewarded with a title like "Master Model Railroader"?Any goal worth acheiving is only worth as much as the effort it takes to attain.Good luck and good modeling.

[vsmith]

QUOTE: Originally posted by DTomajko

By the way,everyone is not a rivet-counter in the NMRA,but why should inaccurate or sloppy modeling be rewarded with a title like "Master Model Railroader"?Any goal worth acheiving is only worth as much as the effort it takes to attain.Good luck and good modeling.

Speaking personaly, my beef had nothing to do with doing "sloppy" or "inaccurate" work and expecting praise for it.

No, it had to do with attitude. When I was a lot younger I did HOn30 which at the time was virtually non existant in the mainstream hobby stores, so everything was kitbashed. I built up some reasonably decent variations (to me) of Maine 2 footers. Being inexperienced and not making the best copy of the subject I went to a get together at LCH which allowed people to bring in their stuff for advice (it wanst running well) where the local NMRA members proceeded to ridicule my stuff and discouraged me from even trying to do any more, "Stick to the boxed stuff, ya dont have any talent, in fact you should try somethen else, maybe knitting, har, har, har", others said that they looked fine but that these guys always pooped on other peoples work. The group wasnt inclusive of others, if you didnt vote there way, it was the highway, they only wanted "their kind" in the group. I found a better LHS later and didnt go there afterwords. It left me with a very bad opinion of the group. I know most all of the members of NMRA are not like that but at time it left me bitter. I felt like if I wanted to be accepted by them I would have to conform to thier viewpoints and opinions and I wont do that for anyone. Maybe the experience wasnt as bad as I portray in reality but in my memory it wanst a good experience for an inexperienced modeler to have.

Later I just found out that I preferred to do my own thing. I am now doing 1/2" scale, and they're realy are no "standards" so the sky's the limit imagination wise and thats what I like, freedom to do what I want, not have someone stand next to it with photos, a scale card, thier NMRA standards sheets ready to bash anything they dont like. (see Malcomn Furlow's new spread for example)

[vsmith]

QUOTE: Originally posted by DTomajko

By the way,everyone is not a rivet-counter in the NMRA,but why should inaccurate or sloppy modeling be rewarded with a title like "Master Model Railroader"?Any goal worth acheiving is only worth as much as the effort it takes to attain.Good luck and good modeling.

Speaking personaly, my beef had nothing to do with doing "sloppy" or "inaccurate" work and expecting praise for it.

No, it had to do with attitude. When I was a lot younger I did HOn30 which at the time was virtually non existant in the mainstream hobby stores, so everything was kitbashed. I built up some reasonably decent variations (to me) of Maine 2 footers. Being inexperienced and not making the best copy of the subject I went to a get together at LCH which allowed people to bring in their stuff for advice (it wanst running well) where the local NMRA members proceeded to ridicule my stuff and discouraged me from even trying to do any more, "Stick to the boxed stuff, ya dont have any talent, in fact you should try somethen else, maybe knitting, har, har, har", others said that they looked fine but that these guys always pooped on other peoples work. The group wasnt inclusive of others, if you didnt vote there way, it was the highway, they only wanted "their kind" in the group. I found a better LHS later and didnt go there afterwords. It left me with a very bad opinion of the group. I know most all of the members of NMRA are not like that but at time it left me bitter. I felt like if I wanted to be accepted by them I would have to conform to thier viewpoints and opinions and I wont do that for anyone. Maybe the experience wasnt as bad as I portray in reality but in my memory it wanst a good experience for an inexperienced modeler to have.

Later I just found out that I preferred to do my own thing. I am now doing 1/2" scale, and they're realy are no "standards" so the sky's the limit imagination wise and thats what I like, freedom to do what I want, not have someone stand next to it with photos, a scale card, thier NMRA standards sheets ready to bash anything they dont like. (see Malcomn Furlow's new spread for example)

[Anonymous]

A member for more than 25 years I began to cull out some of the less useful information. The original data pack and addenda were my primary interest. As the organization evolved into a quasi publishing company, monthly magazine , et al,it seemed as though this was not one of the things that I "had to have." I still have admiration for those who work so hard to establish standards/specs, without which we would have a mish mash of model accoutements.

[Anonymous]

A member for more than 25 years I began to cull out some of the less useful information. The original data pack and addenda were my primary interest. As the organization evolved into a quasi publishing company, monthly magazine , et al,it seemed as though this was not one of the things that I "had to have." I still have admiration for those who work so hard to establish standards/specs, without which we would have a mish mash of model accoutements.

[Anonymous]

Not as one who sat on the outside and complained but as one who jumped in and worked hard for the local region and helped to put on a National Convention, I found it to be what several others have said: A "Good Ol' Boys Organization." I was never even close to the inside track.

I'm a rivet counting nit picker in my own right so that never bothered me but the politics were too much. I want to enjoy my hobby. If I want backstabbing and petty jealousies I can just go to work.

Also, as a minority scaler the overwhelming HO attitude is unappealing.

The best thing about the NMRA were the articles "Notes on a Timebook" by Bill Kennerly, back in the 70's. When he ran out of material, I ran out of membership.

[Anonymous]

Not as one who sat on the outside and complained but as one who jumped in and worked hard for the local region and helped to put on a National Convention, I found it to be what several others have said: A "Good Ol' Boys Organization." I was never even close to the inside track.

I'm a rivet counting nit picker in my own right so that never bothered me but the politics were too much. I want to enjoy my hobby. If I want backstabbing and petty jealousies I can just go to work.

Also, as a minority scaler the overwhelming HO attitude is unappealing.

The best thing about the NMRA were the articles "Notes on a Timebook" by Bill Kennerly, back in the 70's. When he ran out of material, I ran out of membership.

[Anonymous]

I was a member for 10 years. I still think the data sheets are an invaluable guide to getting a layout to run better. The standards that the NMRA has set in almost all areas are a god send to the average model railroader whether they know it or not. However, living to far away from a local group, working weekends(always) and the rapidly rising dues did me in.

[Anonymous]

I was a member for 10 years. I still think the data sheets are an invaluable guide to getting a layout to run better. The standards that the NMRA has set in almost all areas are a god send to the average model railroader whether they know it or not. However, living to far away from a local group, working weekends(always) and the rapidly rising dues did me in.

[Anonymous]

The standards are a great benefit to the hobby . I've met some great
people also . Have also expirienced the same attitude that VSMITH outlined
on 28 Aug 2003 10:35 pm and am considering not renewing because of it.
Attitudes like that also keep newcomers out of the hobby. Sure there are good people willing to help but a person might not seek them out because of thier first impression. So the NMRA and hobby loses another member.
Harry

[Anonymous]

The standards are a great benefit to the hobby . I've met some great
people also . Have also expirienced the same attitude that VSMITH outlined
on 28 Aug 2003 10:35 pm and am considering not renewing because of it.
Attitudes like that also keep newcomers out of the hobby. Sure there are good people willing to help but a person might not seek them out because of thier first impression. So the NMRA and hobby loses another member.
Harry

[Anonymous]

Back in the 60's when NMRA decided to stay with horn-hook couplers, I left.

A couple years ago in a hobby store in Georgia, I was about to purchase about$125.00, in HO equipment and kits..Was told if I was an NMRA member I get 10% off... I said you keep it for an NMRA member.......Heard recently that store went out of business.... " Delightful News"

[Anonymous]

Back in the 60's when NMRA decided to stay with horn-hook couplers, I left.

A couple years ago in a hobby store in Georgia, I was about to purchase about$125.00, in HO equipment and kits..Was told if I was an NMRA member I get 10% off... I said you keep it for an NMRA member.......Heard recently that store went out of business.... " Delightful News"

[vsmith]

QUOTE: Originally posted by ddexterr

Back in the 60's when NMRA decided to stay with horn-hook couplers, I left.

A couple years ago in a hobby store in Georgia, I was about to purchase about$125.00, in HO equipment and kits..Was told if I was an NMRA member I get 10% off... I said you keep it for an NMRA member.......Heard recently that store went out of business.... " Delightful News"

Any LHS going under is bad news for a community, it means there isnt enough interest in that hobby to support a shop. Thats BAD NEWS for all, regardless of how the shop treated people, NMRA members or not. When I found out that the shop I mentioned in my previous posting had gone under I was disheartened because it was a great source of supplies and its lose left a hole for model RR's in that community. Just remember when the mom and pop LHS goes under, all thats left usually is Hobby People, and they dont stock jack-anything-worthwhile there.

[vsmith]

QUOTE: Originally posted by ddexterr

Back in the 60's when NMRA decided to stay with horn-hook couplers, I left.

A couple years ago in a hobby store in Georgia, I was about to purchase about$125.00, in HO equipment and kits..Was told if I was an NMRA member I get 10% off... I said you keep it for an NMRA member.......Heard recently that store went out of business.... " Delightful News"

Any LHS going under is bad news for a community, it means there isnt enough interest in that hobby to support a shop. Thats BAD NEWS for all, regardless of how the shop treated people, NMRA members or not. When I found out that the shop I mentioned in my previous posting had gone under I was disheartened because it was a great source of supplies and its lose left a hole for model RR's in that community. Just remember when the mom and pop LHS goes under, all thats left usually is Hobby People, and they dont stock jack-anything-worthwhile there.

[on30francisco]

I used to belong back in the 80s and early 90s. The bulletins back then were filled with a lot of helpful modeling information in all scales and gauges. I am disappointed with the contents of the bulletin today. Although I model in On30 and HO, I enjoy reading articles about all scales. I believe the NMRA today focuses on HO scale with little regard to the other scales. There is also too much politics involved. I once went to several regional chapter meetings and found the people very cliquish and arrogant. If you weren't modeling in their scale or theme they would be hesitant to talk to you let alone help you. I feel the NMRA has done a lot of good to promote model railroading and set standards for products, but I wish people would have an open mind when it comes to scales and themes. This is a hobby and hobbies are supposed to be fun

[on30francisco]

I used to belong back in the 80s and early 90s. The bulletins back then were filled with a lot of helpful modeling information in all scales and gauges. I am disappointed with the contents of the bulletin today. Although I model in On30 and HO, I enjoy reading articles about all scales. I believe the NMRA today focuses on HO scale with little regard to the other scales. There is also too much politics involved. I once went to several regional chapter meetings and found the people very cliquish and arrogant. If you weren't modeling in their scale or theme they would be hesitant to talk to you let alone help you. I feel the NMRA has done a lot of good to promote model railroading and set standards for products, but I wish people would have an open mind when it comes to scales and themes. This is a hobby and hobbies are supposed to be fun

[cmurray]

I used to belong several years ago. The Bulletin used to drive me nuts, though, because it would always have a nice model photo on the cover and then inside there would never be a follow-up article relating to the cover. Is this still true?

[cmurray]

I used to belong several years ago. The Bulletin used to drive me nuts, though, because it would always have a nice model photo on the cover and then inside there would never be a follow-up article relating to the cover. Is this still true?