Schedule of Events 2021 - Rail Tales VA

December

Covid News:

As of July 1st, 2021, the State of Emergency in Virginia has been allowed to lapse. Rail Tales has resumed normal operations with the following exception:

“Mask or Vaccine” is still in effect at Rail Tales. We may have to require masks of all visitors should the local situation warrant but at this time we will still allow vaccinated customers to visit without a mask.

All Rail Tales visitors will either have to present a completed vaccine card or a picture or copy of one or they will have to wear a mask. Masks will be provided upon request. We are taking this position to protect our staff and other customers: more than half of us have one or more risk factors that make us much more vulnerable.

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, December 4th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or Figure Painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. The subject of the demonstration will be determined by what is requested with the default being some of both. This demonstration may take place in the workshop but report to the store first. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Saturday, December 11th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes, AKI pencils, and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

The model club will meet at 4:30 after the end of the event.

Saturday, December 18th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration can involve mountain/hill making using a combination of foam and Sculptamold and Shaper Sheet and Sculptamold/Shaper Sheet plaster. It will be continuation of last month’s demonstration. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call. This demonstration is being held on the 3rd Saturday instead of the 4th Saturday due to the holiday.

Friday, December 24th: Rail Tales will close at 5 pm.

Saturday, December 25th: Rail Tales will be closed for Christmas.

Friday and Saturday, December 31st and January 1st: Rail Tales will be close for New Year’s.

Gaming Events

Rail Tales will be hosting a special Magic Event: Store Championship on the evening of Sunday, December 5th starting at 6 pm. The format for this Championship is Pioneer. There is no entry fee and prizes will be provided.

We are hosting Friday Night Magic (FNM) beginning at 6:30 PM on the nights of the 3rd, 10th, and 17th. There is NO FNM on the night of the 24th or 31st because we will be closed. There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that if you have completed your vaccine course and have your card or a copy of your card, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask. The Format for FNM is Innistrad Crimson Vow. If you have any questions, speak with Nathan.

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on the Sundays of the 12th, 17th, and 26th. This event starts at 6 pm. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events (and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support) except the 26th. The 26th will be some form of Classic. Call for details. There is no LSNM on the 5th because of the Store Championship.

Club Events

Saturday, December 11th. The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

Special: For this meeting, Mike and Bret will be providing a workshop on figure painting. Those who wish to participate should bring figures which have been assembled, cleaned and/or primed plus their basic painting kit. This demonstration will be done in two parts. This month will concentrate on flesh (face, hands, etc.) while next month will do clothing. Both basic and advanced techniques will be covered.*

*The special workshop demonstration has been moved to January due to scheduling conflicts.

The Jefferson Railroad Club will not be meeting this month due to the holiday.

November

Covid News:

As of July 1st, 2021, the State of Emergency in Virginia has been allowed to lapse. Rail Tales has resumed normal operations with the following exception:

“Vaccine or Mask” is still in effect at Rail Tales. We may have to require masks of all visitors should the local situation warrant but at this time we will still allow vaccinated customers to visit without a mask.

All Rail Tales visitors will either have to present a completed vaccine card or a picture or copy of one or they will have to wear a mask.

In other words: Get your shot(s) or bring a mask please!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, November 6th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or Figure Painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. The subject of the demonstration will be determined by what is requested with the default being some of both. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Saturday, November 13th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes, AKI pencils, and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

The model club will meet at 4:30 after the end of the event.

Saturday, November 20th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration can involve mountain/hill making using a combination of foam and Sculptamold and Shaper Sheet and Sculptamold/Shaper Sheet plaster. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call. This demonstration is being held on the 3rd Saturday instead of the 4th Saturday due to the holiday.

Thursday, November 25th: Rail Tales will be closed for Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving!

Saturday, November 27th: There is no demonstration- the demonstration has been moved to the preceding week.

Gaming Events

Rail Tales will host a Pre-Release for Innistrad Crimson Vow on Friday the 12th and Sunday the 14th. The Friday events starts at 6:30 PM and the Sunday event starts at 1 pm. The cap for the Friday event is 16 and for the Sunday event, 24. The Sunday event will be in the workshop space but report to the store to purchase your kit.

We are hosting Friday Night Magic (FNM) beginning at 6:30 PM on the nights of the 5th, 19th, and 26th. There is NO FNM on the night of the 12th because of the Pre-Release! There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that if you have completed your vaccine course and have your card or a copy of your card, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask. The Format for FNM is Innistrad Midnight Hunt on the 5th and Innistrad Crimson Vow on the 19th and 26th. If you have any questions, speak with Nathan.

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on the Sundays of the 7th, 21st, and 28th. This event starts at 6 pm. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events (and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support) except the 28th. The 28th will be some form of Classic. Call for details. There is no LSNM on the 14th because of the Pre-Release for Crimson Vow.

Club Events

Saturday, November 13th. The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

The Jefferson Railroad Club will not be meeting this month due to the holiday.

October

Covid News:

As of July 1st, 2021, the State of Emergency in Virginia has been allowed to lapse. Rail Tales has resumed normal operations with the following exception:

All Rail Tales visitors will either have to present a completed vaccine card or a picture or copy of one or they will have to wear a mask.

In other words: Get your shot(s) or bring a mask please!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, October 2nd: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or Figure Painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. The subject of the demonstration will be determined by what is requested with the default being some of both. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Saturday, October 9th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes, AKI pencils, and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

The model club will meet at 4:30 after the end of the event.

Saturday, October 16th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic track laying and electrical work for model railroads from 2 pm until 4 pm. The subject of this demonstration is based on requests placed the day of the event. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Saturday, October 23rd: There is no demonstration- the demonstration has been moved to the following week.

Saturday, October 30th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration can involve mountain/hill making using a combination of foam and Sculptamold and Shaper Sheet and Sculptamold/Shaper Sheet plaster. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

The Railroad Club will meet at 5 pm or once the demonstration is complete (see below).

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic (FNM) beginning at 6:30 PM on the nights of the 1st, 8th, 15th, and 29th. There is NO FNM on the night of the 22nd! There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that if you have completed your vaccine course and have your card or a copy of your card, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask. The Format for FNM is Innistrad Midnight Hunt. If you have any questions, speak with Nathan.

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on the Sundays of the 3rd, 10th, and 17th only. There is no LSNM on the night of 24th or the 31st. This event starts at 6 pm. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events (and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support).

Club Events

Saturday, October 9th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

The Jefferson Railroad Club is meeting on Saturday, October 30th at 5 pm following the following the scenery demonstration. This is the 5th Saturday instead of the 4th Saturday.

September

Covid News:

As of July 1st, 2021, the State of Emergency in Virginia has been allowed to lapse. Rail Tales has resumed normal operations with the following exception:

All Rail Tales visitors will either have to present a completed vaccine card or a picture or copy of one or they will have to wear a mask.

In other words: Get your shot(s) or bring a mask please!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, September 4th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Sunday, September 11th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes, AKI pencils, and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

The model club will meet at 4:30 after the end of the event.

Saturday, September 18th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic track laying and electrical work for model railroads from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject of this demonstration will be installing the Peco ‘Smartswitch’ system. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Saturday, September 25th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration can involve mountain/hill making using a combination of foam and Sculptamold and Shaper Sheet and Sculptamold/Shaper Sheet plaster. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

The Railroad Club will meet at 5 pm or once the demonstration is complete (see below).

Gaming Events

New Pre-release Rail Tales is hosting two pre-releases for the MtG set Midnight Hunt. The cost is 29.99. The first Pre-release is on Friday, September 17th at 6:30. The cap for this event is 16. The second Pre-release is on Sunday, September 19th at 1 pm. The cap for this event is 24. The Sunday event is at our workshop space (100 feet to the left of the store). Report to the store to purchase your event materials (and any drinks), the report to the workspace for the event.

We are hosting Friday Night Magic (FNM) beginning at 6:30 PM. There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that if you have completed your vaccine course and have your card or a copy of your card, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask. The Format for FNM for September 3rd and 10th will be decided by the attendees with the default being Forgotten Realms. The format for the 24th will be Midnight Hunt. On the night of the 17th, we will be holding a pre-release instead (see above). If you have any questions, speak with Nathan.

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on each Sunday in the store, starting at 6 pm except for the 19th. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events (and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support) except for the event on the last Sunday of the month (in this case the 26th) which will instead be what we are calling Classic Limited. Classic Limited is some sort of draft or sealed using older product. Usually these are ‘Cubes’ or someone’s private box of goodies. Call for details.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon Magic (LSAM) is a new concept which amounts to a Magic Club. Rail Tales is providing the space for this group but is not sponsoring or administering it. It is an invitation only group. If you are interested, we can pass your information on to the club members. Members MUST BE FULLY VACCINATED!

Club Events

Saturday, September 11th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

The Jefferson Railroad Club is now meeting on the fourth Saturday of the month at 5 pm (following the scenery demonstration). This month the meeting is on September 25th.

August

Covid News:

As of July 1st, 2021, the State of Emergency in Virginia has been allowed to lapse. Rail Tales has resumed normal operations with the following exception:

“Vaccine or Mask” is still in effect at Rail Tales.

All Rail Tales visitors will either have to present a completed vaccine card or a picture or copy of one or they will have to wear a mask.

In other words: Get your shot(s) or bring a mask please!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, August 7th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or model building or figure painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject will be determined by the first person who calls on Saturday between 11 and 1 with the default being an airbrushing demonstration. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Sunday, August 14th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes, AKI pencils, and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call. The model club will meet at 4:30 after the end of the event.

Saturday, August 21st: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic track laying and electrical work for model railroads from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject of this demonstration will be determined by demand. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call.

Saturday, August 28th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination and takes place in the Workshop. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. A reminder- if nobody calls the day of between 11 and 1, we usually cancel the demonstration so if you want to see it, make sure to call. The Railroad Club will meet at 5 pm or once the demonstration is complete (see below).

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic (FNM) beginning at 6:30 PM. There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that if you have completed your vaccine course and have your card or a copy of your card, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask. The Format for FNM for all of August is a draft but which particular set(s) will be drafted (and the therefore the cost of the draft) is usually determined by availability of Draft Boosters. If you have any questions, speak with Nathan.

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on each Sunday in the store, starting at 6 pm. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events (and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support) except for the event on the last Sunday of the month (in this case the 29th) which will instead be what we are calling Classic Limited. Classic Limited is some sort of draft or sealed using older product. Usually these are ‘Cubes’ or someone’s private box of goodies. Call for details.

Club Events

Saturday, August 14th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

The Jefferson Railroad Club is now meeting on the fourth Saturday of the month at 5 pm (following the scenery demonstration).

July

Covid News:

As of July 1st, 2021, the State of Emergency in Virginia has been allowed to lapse. Rail Tales has resumed normal operations with the following exception:

“Vaccine or Mask” is still in effect at Rail Tales.

All Rail Tales visitors will either have to present a completed vaccine card or a picture or copy of one or they will have to wear a mask.

In other words: Get your shot(s) or bring a mask please!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, July 3rd: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or model building or figure painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject will be determined by the first person who calls on Saturday between 11 and 1 with the default being an airbrushing demonstration.

Sunday, July 4th: Rail Tales will be open during normal business hours. However, there will be no magic events.

Saturday, July 10th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes, AKI pencils, and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation. The model club will meet at 4:30 after the end of the event.

Saturday, July 17th: Rail Tales will host a Pre-Release for Magic the Gathering: “Dungeons and Dragons Adventures in the Forgotten Realms” (aka D&D Magic) starting at 1 PM with sign up beginning at 12 PM. The cost for this event is $26. This event will take place in the Workshop, not the store, but product purchase will take place in the store. There will be no Demonstration this Saturday.

Saturday, July 24th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination and takes place in the Workshop. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. The Railroad Club will meet at 5 pm or once the demonstration is complete (see below).

Saturday, July 31st: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of DCC installation and programming from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the STORE because that is where the test track is.

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic beginning at 6:30 PM. There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that beginning with the June 11th event, the new mask policy will be in effect: if you have completed your vaccine course, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask. The Format for FNM on the 2nd and 9th is Strixhaven (cost $16). The Format for FNM on the 16th is a Pre-Release (cost $25) and the Format for the 23rd and 30th is D&D Magic (cost $16).

On both Friday July 16th and Saturday, July 17th, we will host a Pre-Release for Dungeons and Dragons, Adventures in the Forgotten Realms (D&D Magic). The cost for this event is $25. Note that the 16 person limit still applies for FNM! The limit for the Saturday event is 24.

The store will remain open for these events (and you can come back to the store to get drinks and use the restroom etc. during the event). We are hosting our weekend Pre-Release on Saturday instead of Sunday to see if this improves attendance and to work around staffing issues on Sundays.

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on each Sunday in the store, starting at 6 pm except for the 4th. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support except for the event on the last Sunday of the month (in this case the 27th) which will instead be what we are calling Classic Limited. Classic Limited is some sort of draft or sealed using older product. Usually these are ‘Cubes’ or someone’s private box of goodies. Call for details.

Club Events

Saturday, July 10th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

The Jefferson Railroad Club is now meeting on the fourth Saturday of the month at 5 pm (following the scenery demonstration).

June

Covid News:

As of June 1st, 2021, 2020 Rail Tales is operating according to its normal scheduled hours of operation under the Phase 3 Recovery for Virginia as modified by Executive Order updates, the most recent of which took effect May 28th.

The Good News:

1) Social Distancing is no longer required.

2) Our events are no longer limited in size nor limited to ‘after store hours’ or ‘off site locations’.

3) Wizards of the Coast now allows official events again.

4) Masks are not required for vaccinated persons in situations where all persons are either masked or have completed the vaccination process.

The bad news:

Not everyone has completed the vaccination process and some people lie about completing it when they have not and/or have no intention of doing so.

Therefore beginning June 8th:

All Rail Tales visitors who have completed the vaccination process will not have to wear masks! You are still welcome to wear one if you feel it is necessary. We also reserve the right to ask for your vaccine card so if you wish to visit without a mask, please have your card or a photo in your smart phone of your card accessible.

In other words: Get your shot(s) or bring a mask please!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, June 5th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or figure painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject will be determined by the first person who calls on Saturday between 11 and 1.

Saturday, June 12th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles from 2 pm until 4 pm. In this particular case, the subject has already been determined. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes and general drybrushing plus some basic airbrushing. Call between 11 and 1 for a reservation.

Saturday, June 19th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of track laying in HO scale or track wiring. We will either demonstrate hand-laying track using our new system or we will demonstrate the installation of Flex Track or we will demonstrate basic track wiring using the NCE system, depending on demand. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, June 26th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic (FNM) again! The start time has been moved to the original 6:30 time slot. There are a maximum of 16 slots (4 tables) so call for reservations. Note that beginning with the June 11th event, the new mask policy will be in effect: if you have completed your vaccine course, you do not have to wear a mask. If you have not, you will be required to wear a mask.

The June 4th event will be Strixhaven booster draft.

The June 11th event will be a Pre-Release for Modern Horizons 2. Note that the cost for this event is a $50 flat fee (to cover the higher cost of MH2). This is a 5% discount off MSRP. Note that the 16 person limit still applies! We are also holding a draft on the following Sunday (see below).

We are holding a second Modern Horizons 2 Pre-Release on Sunday June 13th. This will be held in our workshop space from 1 pm until we finish. Players are to report to the store for purchase of their kits (still $50) and then walk up the parking lot about 100 feet to the workshop for play. The store will remain open for this event (and you can come back to the store to get drinks and use the restroom etc. during the event). The limit for this event is equal to 24 + (left over kits from the previous Friday).

FNM events on the 18th and 25th will be either Strixhaven or MH2, depending on demand (or both if we have at least 6 players for each).

Lazy Sunday Night Magic (LSNM) will be held on each Sunday, starting at 6 pm. The cap is 16 as per FNM. The format is Commander for all events and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support except for the event on the last Sunday of the month (in this case the 27th) which will instead be what we are calling Classic Limited. Classic Limited is some sort of draft or sealed using older product. Usually these are ‘Cubes’ or someone’s private box of goodies. Call for details.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon Magic (LSAM) is a new concept we are going to try which amounts to a Magic Club. Play will take place in our workshop space between 1 pm and 5 pm (to allow people to get food before LSNM) subject to the availability of a ‘store associate’ (someone the store trusts with a key) to be responsible for the people in the event and to run it. The first possible day for LSAM to begin will be June 20th. Ask Nathan for details as we develop this concept.

Club Events

Saturday, June 12th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first. Masks are not required for persons who have completed the vaccine program. Masks ARE required for people who have not.

The Jefferson Railroad Club is going to move meetings from Sunday to Saturday at 6 pm, if that is suitable to the members. The first new time meeting will be Saturday, June 26th.

May

Covid News:

As of April 1st, 2021, 2020 Rail Tales is operating according to its normal scheduled hours of operation under the Phase 3 Recovery for Virginia as modified by Executive Order 72 version 4.

What this means for Rail Tales:

1) We are required to strictly enforce social distancing. Customers should maintain social distancing from all persons except those you arrived with. We can be charged with a crime if we do not enforce this rule so please bear with us. Among other things, this makes it impossible to hold our gaming events during store hours, therefore…

1a) All gaming events are moved to after store closing and are now Social Events. Lazy Friday Magic (formerly FNM) will begin at 7 pm. Lazy Sunday Magic has been moved to 6 pm on Sunday. Other events will be posted.

1b) Saturday Demonstrations have to be done entirely in our workshop and are considered ‘social events’.

1c) Club Meetings are now held in our workshop if possible and cancelled if not.

2) Version 4 of Executive Order 72 allows for social gatherings to have 50 people, so our Magic events and club events are limited only by our facility capacity (which is less than 50 people). We will announce event limits with the event announcement itself.

3) Face coverings now have to be worn in any setting where two or more people are occupying the same room other than their private residence. This does not effect the public (because customers already had to wear masks) but means our staff has to wear masks even when nobody is in the store. Also, masks must cover nose and mouth, not just the mouth. We are requiring that Rail Tales customers wear face coverings while in the store to comply with this order. Remember that your face covering protects others and their face covering protects you!

All Rail Tales staff is either fully vaccinated or has received at least one shot towards being vaccinated. We encourage our customers to do the same.

We are still working very hard to keep our surfaces sterile, including door handles and signature pens. Be assured that if any staff members are knowingly exposed to a Covid carrier, we will close as necessary to make sure we do not pose a risk to our customers.

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, May 1st: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or figure painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject will be determined by the first person who calls on Saturday between 11 and 1.

Saturday, May 8th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles and/or figures (subject determined by request) from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes and general drybrushing but the focus will be on using the AK pencils and/or Bragdon powders, depending on requests. We can do an airbrush demonstration instead if requested. Call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, May 15th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of track laying in HO scale or track wiring. We will either demonstrate hand-laying track using our new system or we will demonstrate the installation of Flex Track or we will demonstrate basic track wiring using the NCE system, depending on demand. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, May 22nd: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, May 31st: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic DCC installations and operations. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests. This demonstration will require movement between the workshop (where we do the work) and the store (where the test track is).

Gaming Events

We are hosting Lazy Friday Magic (we are not allowed to call it Friday Night Magic anymore) at 7 pm (after store hours). The format will be Strixhaven. These events are not sanctioned by Wizards- we are running the events on our own initiative. As per WOC policy, we are no longer able to give away the promo packs at these events. However, we will be providing cards as a reward for coming in to play. Gloves are provided for the card passing portion of the event upon request and masks are required for the entire event. There will be a maximum of 16 slots and the store will be closed to non-participants. This is a hard cap, so if you want to make sure you have a space, please call ahead to reserve one.

Lazy Sunday Magic will be held after store hours on each Sunday, starting at 6 pm. The cap is 16 as per LFM. The format is Commander for all events and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support except that the event on the 30th which be what we are calling Classic Limited (again we are not allowed to use official Wizards terms as this is not sanctioned). Classic Limited is some sort of draft or sealed using older product. Usually these are ‘Cubes’ or someone’s private box of goodies. Call for details.

Club Events

Saturday, May 8th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first.

The Jefferson Railroad Club will not meet this month because of Memorial Day weekend. We hope to meet again in June.

April

Covid News:

As of April 1st, 2021, 2020 Rail Tales is operating according to its normal scheduled hours of operation under the Phase 3 Recovery for Virginia as modified by Executive Order 72 version 4.

What this means for Rail Tales:

1b) Saturday Demonstrations have to be done entirely in our workshop and are considered ‘social events’.

1c) Club Meetings are now held in our workshop if possible and cancelled if not.

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, April 3rd: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing or figure painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. The subject will be determined by the first person who calls on Saturday between 11 and 1.

Saturday, April 10th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles and/or figures (subject determined by request) from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes and general drybrushing but the focus will be on using the AK pencils and/or Bragdon powders, depending on requests. We can do an airbrush demonstration instead if requested. Call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, April 17th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of track laying in HO scale or track wiring. We will either demonstrate hand-laying track using our new system or we will demonstrate the installation of Flex Track or we will demonstrate basic track wiring using the NCE system, depending on demand. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, April 25th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Gaming Events

We are hosting Lazy Friday Magic (we are not allowed to call it Friday Night Magic anymore) at 7 pm (after store hours) on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th. The format will be Kaldheim draft format on the 2nd, 9th, and 16th. The event on the 23rd will be Strixhaven sealed (pre-release format). The event on the 30th will be Strixhaven draft. Please call for details. These events are not sanctioned by Wizards- we are running the events on our own initiative. As per WOC policy, we are no longer able to give away the promo packs at these events. However, we will be providing cards as a reward for coming in to play. Gloves are provided for the card passing portion of the event upon request and masks are required for the entire event. There will be a maximum of 16 slots and the store will be closed to non-participants. This is a hard cap, so if you want to make sure you have a space, please call ahead to reserve one.

Club Events

Saturday, April 10th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first.

Sunday, April 24th: The Jefferson Railroad Club will meet in the workshop space at 1 pm. We have not met in a while so this will be a review of plans for the future. As of this month the club will no longer be able to do operating sessions in my house (as there will be a Marklin layout in the great room!) so we will have to plan how to operate in the Workshop space.

March

Covid News:

As of December 14th, 2020 Rail Tales is operating according to its normal scheduled hours of operation under the Phase 3 Recovery for Virginia as modified by Executive Order 72. This order is now in effect indefinitely.

What this means for Rail Tales:

1a) All gaming events are moved to after store closing and are now Social Events. Friday Night Magic will begin at 7 pm. Lazy Sunday Magic has been moved to 6 pm on Sunday. Other events will be posted.

1b) Saturday Demonstrations have to be done entirely in our workshop and are considered ‘social events’.

1c) Club Meetings are now held in our workshop if possible and cancelled if not.

2) The second major change from order 63 existing rules is that social gatherings may not have more than 10 people, so all Magic events and club events are limited to 10 people.

3) The third major change from existing order 63 is that the mask order has been clarified and expanded. Face coverings now have to be worn in any setting where two or more people are occupying the same room other than their private residence. This does not effect the public (because customers already had to wear masks) but means our staff has to wear masks even when nobody is in the store. Also, masks must cover nose and mouth, not just the mouth. We are requiring that Rail Tales customers wear face coverings while in the store to comply with this order. Remember that your face covering protects others and their face covering protects you!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, March 6th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of Airbrushing and basic painting techniques at the usual 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first.

Saturday, March 13th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles and/or figures (subject determined by request) from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo paints and washes and general drybrushing but the focus will be on using the AK pencils and/or Bragdon powders, depending on requests. We can do an airbrush demonstration instead if requested. Call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, March 20th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of track laying in HO scale. We will either demonstrate hand-laying track using our new system or we will demonstrate the installation of Flex Track, depending on demand. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, March 27th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic at 7 pm on the 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th. The format will be draft format using the Kaldheim set unless the participants choose otherwise. Please call for details. These events are not sanctioned by Wizards- we are running the events on our own initiative. Gloves are provided for the card passing portion of the event upon request and masks are required for the entire event. There will be a maximum of 10 slots and the store will be closed to non-participants. This is a hard cap, so if you want to make sure you have a space, please call ahead to reserve one.

Lazy Sunday Magic will be held after store hours on each Sunday, starting at 6 pm. The cap is 10 as per FNM. The format is Commander all events but the 28th and the cost is $5 to pay for prize support.

Sunday, March 28th: The LSM event will be a special format. Call for details.

Club Events

Saturday, March 13th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting will be held beginning at 4:30 in the workshop. Attendees may go directly to the workshop and do not have to report to the store first.

Sunday, March 28th: The Jefferson Railroad Club meeting has been cancelled.

February

Covid News:

What this means for Rail Tales:

1a) All gaming events are moved to after store closing and are now Social Events. Friday Night Magic will begin at 7 pm and Lazy Sunday Magic is suspended. Other events will be posted.

1b) Saturday Demonstrations have to be done entirely in our workshop and are considered ‘social events’.

1c) Club Meetings have been suspended.

2) The second major change from order 63 existing rules is that social gatherings may not have more than 10 people, so all Magic events are limited to 10 people.

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, February 13th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles and/or figures (subject determined by request) OR an airbrush demonstration from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo pigment powders and washes and general drybrushing but the focus will be on using the AK pencils. We can do an airbrush demonstration instead if requested. Call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, February 20th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of track laying in HO scale. We will either demonstrate hand-laying track using our new system or we will demonstrate the installation of Flex Track, depending on demand. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, February 27th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water or use of ground paste or a combination. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic at 7 pm on the 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th. The format for the 5th is sealed using the new Kaldheim set. Following events will be draft format using the Kaldheim set. Please call for details. These events are not sanctioned by Wizards- we are running the events on our own initiative. Gloves are provided for the card passing portion of the event upon request and masks are required for the entire event. There will be a maximum of 10 slots and the store will be closed to non-participants. This is a hard cap, so if you want to make sure you have a space, please call ahead to reserve one.

Lazy Sunday Magic is cancelled for this month due to Order 72 restrictions.

Club Events

Saturday, February 13th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting has been cancelled: we do not currently have space in the workshop to hold the event.

Sunday, February 28th: The Jefferson Railroad Club meeting has been cancelled.

January

Welcome to 2021! Hopefully better than 2020!

Covid News:

What this means for Rail Tales:

1) The first major change from the order 63 existing rules is that we are required to strictly enforce social distancing. Customers should maintain social distancing from all persons except those you arrived with. We can be charged with a crime if we do not enforce this rule so please bear with us. Among other things, this makes it impossible to hold our gaming events, therefore…

1a) All gaming events are moved to after store closing. Friday Night Magic will begin at 7 pm and Lazy Sunday Magic is suspended. Other events will be posted.

1b) Saturday Demonstrations have to be done entirely in our workshop and are considered ‘social events’.

1c) Club Meetings have been suspended.

2) The second major change from order 63 existing rules is that social gatherings may not have more than 10 people, so all Magic events are limited to 10 people.

3) The third major change from existing order 63 is that the mask order has been clarified and expanded. Face coverings now have to be worn in any settling where two or more people are occupying the same room other than their private residence. This does not effect the public but means our staff has to wear masks even when nobody is in the store. Also, masks must cover nose and mouth, not just the mouth. We are requiring that Rail Tales customers wear face coverings while in the store to comply with this order. Remember that your face covering protects others and their face covering protects you!

Thank you for your support.

General Store Events

Saturday, January 9th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of weathering techniques for structures and vehicles and/or figures (subject determined by request) from 2 pm until 4 pm. This demonstration will take place in the workshop but report to the store first. Among other materials, we will demonstrate the application of Vallejo pigment powders and washes and general drybrushing but the focus will be on using the AK pencils. We can do an airbrush demonstration instead if requested. Call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, January 16th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of track laying in HO scale. We will either demonstrate hand-laying track using our new system or we will demonstrate the installation of Flex Track, depending on demand. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, January 23rd: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of basic scenery techniques. This demonstration can involve either mountain/hill making or zero depth water. As always, call between 11 and 1 with requests.

Saturday, January 30th: Rail Tales will host a demonstration of DCC installations. This will be a little complicated because our test track is in the store but we have to do the demo itself in the shop, so there will be some back and forth. Customers wishing to volunteer their items for this demonstration should call between 11 and 1. Note that we still charge for the work we do but customers can work along or finish up to save our time (and your money).

Gaming Events

We are hosting Friday Night Magic at 7 pm on the 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. The draft format is Commander Legends, so the cost is higher than normal. Please call for details. These events are not sanctioned by Wizards- we are running the events on our own initiative. Gloves are provided for the card passing portion of the event upon request and masks are required for the entire event. There will be a maximum of 10 slots and the store will be closed to non-participants. This is a hard cap, so if you want to make sure you have a space, please call ahead to reserve one.

Lazy Sunday Magic is cancelled for this month due to Order 72 restrictions.

Club Events

Saturday, January 9th: The Charlottesville Model Club meeting has been cancelled.

Sunday, January 31st: The Jefferson Railroad Club meeting has been cancelled.