Tracks to Tidewater: Chesapeake Division Members Attend the 2026 MER Convention
Several members of the Chesapeake Division attended the 2026 Mid-Eastern Region (MER) Convention, Tracks to Tidewater, held October 15–18 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Hosted by the Tidewater Division of the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA), the convention brought together model railroaders from across the region for several days of learning, fellowship, and celebrating the hobby.
The convention featured a full schedule of activities, including layout open houses, operating sessions, educational clinics, model contests, prototype tours, and opportunities to socialize with fellow model railroaders. As with most NMRA conventions, there was far more to see and do than could reasonably fit into a single weekend.
One of the highlights was the opportunity to visit home and club model railroads throughout the Tidewater area. These layouts represented a variety of scales, eras, prototypes, and modeling approaches, offering visitors plenty of inspiration for their own projects. Several layout owners also hosted operating sessions, giving attendees the opportunity to experience realistic railroad operations on unfamiliar layouts and learn different approaches to running a model railroad.
Educational clinics were another important part of the convention, and several Chesapeake Division members contributed to the program. Bill McAleese presented four clinics covering scratchbuilding techniques, using cardboard in model railroading, selecting appropriate adhesives, and incorporating micro cameras and video into model railroads. Jim Fisher conducted a hands-on clinic demonstrating techniques for constructing realistic pine trees, while Scott Wooddell presented an introduction to the Operations Special Interest Group (OPSIG) Achievement Program, explaining how the program recognizes participation in model railroad operations, encourages operators to develop their skills and experience, and complements the NMRA Achievement Program.
The contest room provided an opportunity to admire the craftsmanship of fellow modelers, while the NMRA’s model evaluation process offered constructive feedback and recognition for those participating. Chesapeake Division members Bill McAleese and Scott Wooddell also volunteered as contest room evaluators, helping assess models and support this important part of the convention. The convention also featured a T-TRAK modular layout assembled by members of Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling (HARM), with several modules being evaluated as part of the NMRA’s new Modular Railroading Achievement Program certificate.
Beyond the traditional convention activities, attendees had opportunities to explore other aspects of the railroad hobby. A tour of the Plasser American facility in Chesapeake offered a look at the specialized equipment used to maintain prototype railroad track. The White Elephant Table provided an opportunity to buy and sell model railroad equipment, while informal gatherings throughout the weekend encouraged the exchange of ideas and experiences.
The convention’s Saturday evening activities concluded with the awards banquet, where attendees gathered to recognize achievements throughout the region. The evening featured a keynote address by Bill Schafer, former Director of Strategic Planning for Norfolk Southern Railroad, who shared insights from his career in the railroad industry. The convention wrapped up on Sunday morning with the MER Membership Meeting, where members received updates on regional activities and discussed matters important to the organization.
The Chesapeake Division was also well represented among those working behind the scenes to make the convention a success. Special thanks go to our Division Superintendent, Kirk Bateman, who served as Convention Registrar, and Laura Bateman, the MER Executive Convention Chair. Both worked tirelessly throughout the planning process and during the convention itself, helping coordinate the many details necessary to bring an event of this size together. Their dedication, organization, and countless hours of volunteer service played an important role in making Tracks to Tidewater an enjoyable and successful convention for everyone involved.
Perhaps the greatest benefit of attending an NMRA convention is the opportunity to connect with other model railroaders. Whether discussing a modeling technique during a clinic, exchanging ideas with a layout owner, participating in an operating session, or simply catching up with old friends, these interactions are an important part of what makes the NMRA such a valuable organization.
The Chesapeake Division extends its appreciation to the Tidewater Division, convention organizers, layout hosts, clinicians, contest evaluators, and the many volunteers who contributed to making Tracks to Tidewater a successful event. We are particularly proud of the Chesapeake Division members who shared their knowledge, volunteered their time, and helped support the convention.
For those who have never attended an NMRA regional convention, consider adding one to your calendar. Conventions provide opportunities to learn new skills, discover fresh ideas, make new friends, and return home with renewed enthusiasm for the hobby.
We look forward to seeing everyone for the 2027 Mid-Eastern Region Convention in West Virginia.