Message from 2019 Convention Chair, Bill Derville
The convention is progressing well. We have increased the size of our DoubleTree hotel room block to 1,385 room nights. Already 1027 room nights have been reserved. We will probably be asking for more rooms in a few weeks.
As of March 18th, 590 people were registered to attend. We originally planned to order 100 convention cars, but since they are cheaper than buying new from retail outlets, we have already taken orders for 92 cars. The loads can be turned around to be either a convention car or a normal freight car. USA trains will be delivering four different UP car numbers. Since we are nearly sold out, we have ordered another 50 cars and the club will be making the loads for them.
Although the trolley rides are sold out, there is still room on all the layout tour buses, the BBQ with the ride behind steam engine 4449 to Oaks Park and back, and the banquet with Doyle McCormack who restored 4449 and drove the 1976 Freedom train as our speaker. There are still nine remaining positions on our adult operating sessions at the four layouts Tuesday evening.
Don’t miss the fun. The convention has never been held in Portland, Oregon. You can view scenes from most of the 45 Portland area layouts on our website https://ngrc2019.org where you can also register for the convention. Don’t forget to get the special room rate for convention attendees from the DoubleTree Hotel. See you in Portland August 27-31 this year!!!