1/14/2008 draft 3

This policy is designed to help members, especially new members, get their modules in the line-up and to provide a way to "test" the new modules as well as maintain our overall layout quality. It will also encourage all modules to be constructed sequentially over time with added features showing up from time to time. This will give the layout a fresh appearance to visitors who may have seen our layout before.

New modules are to be tested in the layout after the basic structure is in place. The following list indicates what should be included and what should come later. Note: New modules will NOT be included in "paying shows" (or possibly "judged shows") where overall quality is essential.

• Modules approved by a knowledgeable member (check electrical check)
• Track (mainline track and all turnouts on the mainline included)
• Wiring (Track bus installed)
• Painting (frame flat black, backboard SIG blue, other bare wood and plywood painted black and green)
• Buildings, foam ground covers, and trees are optional at this stage
• Sign indicating "New module under construction, undergoing testing"
• No ballast at this time (ballast prevents fixing track issues)
• Back board at least sky blue
• Plexiglas

We encourage tested modules to get thematic structures in place so that the module will not look conspicuously look incomplete. Essential features for the second through fifth shows include:

• Ballasted track
• General scenic theme is apparent and partially completed with some future buildings, roads, foam ground covers, and trees in place
• Backboard should be completed with 4D background mountains

By now modules must have thematic structures in place so that they blend in with the overall layout. Essential features for the sixth show and beyond:

• Backboard should be complete with near foreground painted

• 12v bus installed
• Additional UTP panels if desired
• Signal system if desired
• Automobiles, people, and other small scenic details added slowly over time.