NATIONAL GARDEN RAILWAY CONVENTION BBQ EVENT
HELD ON MAY 2nd 2008
AT
THE ADOBE MOUNTAIN DESERT RAILROAD PARK
The event was a great success with everything coming together on May 2nd. We estimate that there were between 1000 and 1200 people visit the Park on a
beautiful day in Phoenix, Arizona. Among the park guests, we catered a great BBQ meal to 650 Conventioneers and volunteers. We were highly praised by both groups
as to the quality of the food and the professionalism in how we served it. A big Thanks goes to Jim Oakes and his crew for the delicious food. At this event we were able
to talk to guests from all over the USA and the World. We heard praise about the job we have done over the past few years, and in building a one of a kind Railroad Park.
Many people said that they have never seen where clubs like ours have come together for this big a project and have been able to complete so much in a short period of
time. They praised all the layouts inside and out and said they hoped some day to come back and see our progress.
Along with our layouts and the BBQ event, the Maricopa Live Steamers participated in the event by running over 75 trains during the day and hauling
well over 850 people on the 10 miles of 1 1/2 “ track they have at the park. Many people commented on how they have never been to a Park like this any where in the
USA. Every one had a great time riding the trains and for some they even got a night ride through the Desert.
Sahuaro Central also had their Museum and indoor G scale layout open for the guests. They had trains stopping all day long to view all the great
displays and railroad antiques at the Museum. Many were able to talk to Jerry Oyler the curator of the Museum and to view the five trains running on the indoor layout.
Over all, this was one of the biggest and best events that we have put on at the park. This event has gained Adobe Mountain Desert Railroad Park
and all three clubs a great amount of positive PR and some extra funding for future projects at the Park. I would like to thank all the volunteers from all three clubs,
Jim Oaks, and the Convention Committee for allowing us the opportunity to put on this event. A special thanks to the all the guests that came to the Park that day.
Larry Hatch, President
Arizona Model Railroading Society and the Arizona Garden Railroading Society
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