Thoughts on next year

As the display winds down thoughts of how to make next years layout better begin to simmer.

1.Replace Station Masters with our own design.
   Let's build a devise that will:
     A. NOT require ANY PROGRAMMING.
     B. Will NOT burn up if POLARITY is reversed.
     C. Is capable of working with any amperage the transformer produces.
     D. Will not of itself cause a transformer to burn out.

2. Let's keep it simple.  The only adjustment MGRS Operators should make is to the individual speed of each train.

3.  Use a heavy duty master power strip with ON/OFF indicator light. We want ONE BUTTON  control of the entire layout.    With the exception of train speed no other controls should be adjusted.

4. Expand the use of ANIMATED devices that create ACTION, LIGHTS, SOUND and tie them in if possible to the Interactive Controls.

       A.  For example bring back the Firetruck with flashing lights perhaps putting out a small fire of flickering lights. 

       B.  Add the Ice skaters that move around to part of our  frozen pond scene. 

       C.  Consider a couple of automated "Carnival Rides" such as we see at local Town Fairs or Town Celebrations Days like the Yarmouth Clam Festival.  They can be slightly smaller scale. For example the Ski Lift this year was very successful!  The public enjoys the Interactive devices very much!
     
5.  Add some point to point lines for Trolly and the Saw Mill as suggested by Barry. 

6.  Carl has suggested  lowering the Thomas track below the level of the main line to make it easier for small children to see it.   That may also require some trestles or small island to support the main line as it passes over the Thomas display area.

 7.  Add moving water feature(s) to the display: 
  This offers many different possibilities:
  
    A.  A recycling water fall passing under some of our bridges.
    B.  A small pond with floating swans or small water craft moved by the circular motion created by a submersible pump gently directing the current.
    C.  A small fountain:   I used to have a G scale Park fountain with statues and lights that was really neat!  But even a small bubbling display would be very attractive. 

8.  Add some real LIVE plant life.  Within easy reach for occasional watering. 

9. Add some accent lighting perhaps with changing colors like some of the inexpensive Garden accessories we have in our own gardens in the summer time that are solar powered.

10. Your turn - write down your thoughts today!  Leave comments or email mgrsadmin@gmail.com
THANK YOU!