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This question is often posed to me at conventions, via e-mail and during phone conversations. Some feel that the NMRA could handle the functions of the MER. The NMRA, like the MER, is a volunteer organization with only 3 paid employees. The corporate office is located in Chattanooga, Tenn. This office is responsible to meet the needs of over 20 thousand model railroaders.

The purpose of your MER is to promote, stimulate, foster and encourage by all manner and means the art and craft of model railroading and the preservation of the history, science, and technology thereof. The MER does this by expanding the interest in and publicizing the hobby of model railroading through publication of the LOCAL six (6) times annually.

Another objective of the MER is to sponsor a convention or two each year. These conventions give MER members the opportunity to network with other model railroaders without traveling cross country. The MER supports local divisions financially when they sponsor MER conventions. If needed, MER Board of Directors will personally get involved assisting divisions in part or in whole in setting up a convention.

MER conventions support the national Achievement Program. Often this is the first step members take before competing on a national level. The camaraderie at these conventions reflect genuine recognition of those outstanding model railroaders. Constructive feedback often helps those who go on to compete on the national level.

The MER promotes membership growth by helping in the establishment of new divisions in the region.

There are approximately 25 volunteers in addition to the Board of Directors that help with the various standing committees. We are always looking for more volunteers.

The MER is your conduit to the NMRA. There are 17 regions around the world. The NMRA could not possibly meet the needs of all the model railroaders in these regions without additional financial and staff resources.

	Martin Oakes. Interesting pix occasionally from other places, credit unknown and unknowable :)
Photos	Ron Baile and Mr. X, convention photos

(c) 2005 Mid-Eastern Region of the National Model Railroader's Association