Cotton Valley Rail Trail Club

Message from President Bruce Stuart:

It is with deep sadness that I bring this passing before the membership. One passing that I'm finding hard to acknowledge the very depth of, Scott Fuller. I struggle with the insignificance of the word passing in relation to Scott. Words that come to my mind and seem more fitting are words such as, Engaged: Engaged in any project he could contribute to and make a difference with, you could count him in 100%. Knowledgeable: There weren't many subjects with which Scott wasn't knowledgeable. Whether it be a mechanical question or a technical question, a certain way to accomplish something or the best way to go about doing a task, he usually had the answer. If he did not, he would by the next time you spoke. Committed: When Scott accepted responsibility for a project or a promise that he made,he was committed to see it through to completion. His word meant something to him, and that is exactly how he carried himself. Giving: Giving of his time and resources. When a club member needed help with something or did not have the wherewithal to carry out the task or resolve the issue, Scott would make himself available. He always took care of those in his life. His family, friends and friends to be. Determined/Tenacious/Perseverance: Regardless of any failures, to Scott, they were just another rung in the ladder. Simply another part of the climb in attaining the end result. Never have I witnessed the slightest telltale of defeat in anything Scott took on. Whether that was mounting the highrail gear to the tractor or taking on the fight for his life, determination and tenacity are what showed up in his voice and his actions. Rest in peace Scott, you have certainly earned it.

(SPM)

The BOD wants you to be aware that we will have new CVRTC hats and shirts available at the Business Meeting on Saturday, 18 March. We have replenished our stock of the popular safety green T-shirts and embroidered caps. Of course we will have our traditional CVRTC Safety Orange T-shirt and black embroidered cap. New this year will be a V-neck shirt that many of the ladies in the club have requested. Items are reasonably priced at $15 each. (SPM)

CVRTC President, Bruce Stuart has some words to say about long time member Ben Hubley

With sadness, I announce to the club that a member has left the station for the last time. Ben Hubley passed suddenly this past Nov 26th. Ben is the son of Frank & Heleen Hubley of Warner NH. Frank, Heleen and Ben have been members of CVRTC for a very long time. For many years, Ben has been doing what he loved best when surrounded by folk's and motorcars. Being involved.

With much enthusiasm and excitement, Ben would want to give a helping hand when opportunity arose to turn a railcar or be the first with a flag in hand to protect a crossing. Frank and Heleen were very acute to Ben's love for the club and all that took place on meeting Day. They have always ensured, when time permitted, that Ben was present and fully engaged in something he loved so much, CVRTC and riding the rails. Rest in peace Ben, the members will miss seeing that broad smile you brought to the table and your enthusiastic love for being a part of this Hobby.

(Hubley Photos) (SPM)

The CVRTC motorcar season is starting to take shape. The Board of Directors is meeting on Saturday, 25 February at Fernald Station. They will have the B&M potbelly stove stoked and the 2023 activity planning will be discussed. Please send your suggestions to any club officer or director. The clubs Annual Business Meeting has been booked at the Merrimack Valley Railroad function hall in Northfield, NH. This will take place on Saturday, 18 March. This is the same location as last year. The doors will open at 9:00 for a social hour before the meeting is called to order at 10:00 AM. We will have light refreshments (coffee, muffins etc.) and there will be club apparel on sale too. Keep your eye on the club's Event Calendar page for all the posted activities.

(S McInerney Photo) (SPM)

The State of New Hampshire contractor has finished replacing the roof at Fernald Station! The deck was replaced with new plywood. The chiminey flashing was sealed. The new roof deck also has real eves which allow for a more secure attachment of the cherished gingerbread. The fresh paint on this trim looks great. I guess we all know what tasks await us in the spring. Painting the remainder of the station!

(N. McDonald Photo) (SPM)