Summer is here, and we’re headed into the Division Point and the requisite crew change. It’s been an honor and a privilege to have been your President for the last three years, and it’s time for a new crew to come aboard. Our volunteers have been busy on your behalf, and they have accomplished far too much to detail here, so look for positive changes in all departments.

The “Magic of Scale Model Railroading” exhibit at the California State Railroad Museum is open to the public and the reviews have been highly positive. We’ve made major progress in Standards & Conformance, Education and Publications. In many ways, one might consider some of these changes as esoteric changes, and yes, many of them remain under the normal radars, but they’ve been necessary, and our volunteers have made them happen. Look for more improvements in the future!

I’m delighted to note that the NMRA is in sound financial shape thanks to the efforts of our CFO, our HQ staff, and our donors. May this continue!

I’ll also note that participation in the AP has increased over the last year, which is a Good Thing. We are fortunate indeed to have this great hobby to help us through the isolation!

The COVID-19 pandemic has not helped, especially since we’ve had to cancel conventions and train shows in North America and elsewhere, but once again, our volunteers have risen to the challenge. They’ve created NMRAx and its offshoots, held virtual events all over the world, and have allowed us to connect with long-term friends and make new ones even during various degrees of isolation. Those virtual events have been highly beneficial to all of us, especially those of us who live alone. Thanks, folks! And don’t forget the Rails by the Bay 2021 virtual convention next week, brought to you by the Santa Clara team and other volunteers! pcrnmra.org/NMRA2021/

And in terms of “Thanks,” we’ll have formal announcements of awards for those who have made above-and-beyond contributions to our hobby listed after the awards are conferred. Look for them.

With that said, it’s time for me to gather my things and prepare to detrain. Many thanks to all who have moved our Association forward, and best wishes for a great future.