One of the modeling issues I struggle with is naming places and industries. Case in point was the large warehouse mocked up with DPM paper cutouts over a core of hardboard. Not knowing exactly what to put there or whether to use it at all it remained in this state for quite some time.
Having looked at numerous photos and videos of the Kings Port Division http://kingsportdivision.blogspot.com/ I noted a "Ralph's Pretty Good Grocery" on the layout. I knew there was a grocery chain called Ralphs in California. Since I was looking to add a grocery warehouse and distribution center to my layout an idea was forming. Why not name it Ralphs as a tribute to PC Ralph who has been a friend these past two years and puts up with my unsolicited advice without complaint.
In order to entice Ralph to open at this location I removed all the DPM paperwork. I printed out some brick paper from my computer and scoured my parts boxes for windows and doors. Let's take a look at how this project turned out;
In a November Ops session the DPM mock up sits up against a
DPM modular building with signs for United Technologies.
The building overhaul has been completed.
Empire City Mayor Julius Fiorello, aka "Big Julie" sends a personal invitation to PC Ralph trying to get this property rented so he can skim some of the tax money. Big Julie's political platform is
"Bringing Dignity Back To Corruption"
1/87th Scale Sir Neal Himself was instrumental in getting 1/87th Scale PC Ralph to open up the distribution center here in Empire City. Many of you will remember 1/87th Scale Sir Neal Himself is the owner of Neal's Lumber and Hardware about a 1/2 mile from this location. He is also the owner / CEO of the Atlantic Pacific Rail Road.
Ralphs Grocery Warehouse and Distribution Center is taking shape as supplies are starting to arrive
The United Technologies sign has been blacked out. Kind of like a second hand freight car or diesel.
The first rail shipments have arrived!
As seen from the south side. Ralphs signs are in place and they are open for business
Ralphs advertising executives have made sure the citizenry of Empire City know who's come to town.
R.G.W.&D.C. enjoys both rail and truck shipping and receiving capabilities.
And let the record reflect, Ralphs is "The Official Grocer of Football"
I especially like the Jersey Central RBL car. The CNJ had a small number of both 40 and 50 foot RBLS that I think carried Rheingold Beer from Newark, NJ. (As a NJ boy, I remember "My beer is Rheingold the dry beer" radio jingles.)
ReplyDeleteThanks for that info John! You are a fount of great information. This will be exactly the load that is in this car! I remember hanging out and sneaking quarts of Rheingold in the 70's.
DeleteSo I went to google and found https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_51RANXHg0
ReplyDeleteNice! I became a Schaefer man myself until we moved from NY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2vXfs1OfsM
DeleteRalph's is proud to open in the bustling business climate of Empire City! The location is ideal and rail traffic is already active. Big Julie got his cut so we're good to go! The details on the loading dock really bring the scene alive and I like that CNJ car that John B. pointed out as well! Great job!
ReplyDeleteOn behalf of the EC Chamber of Commerce; Welcome to Empire City! The right palms have been greased and beer is arriving by the train load! It's gonna be a good summer.
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ReplyDeleteWhat a great addition to the NYCTL! I'm sure Ralph's Grocery Warehouse & Distribution Center will thrive in Empire City. The APRR will arrange with the NYCTL a load of food supplies from the C&P Restaurant Supply, a wholly owned subsidiary of Neal's Lumber & Hardware, a part of the APRR group! Much success to all!!
ReplyDeleteThank You 1 to 1 Sir Neal! On behalf of the NYCTL we look forward to the additional rail traffic from the APRR! Looks like this new enterprise will benefit all of us. As well it should! Thanks go to 1/87th scale Sir Neal for his diligent work in making this happen.
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