I know enough how to properly wire to electrical code outlets for the lights for the layout.  What I am not so sure about is planning for sufficient load capacity with the breakers when it comes to the POWER FACTOR issue on CFL bulbs.  If I were using incandescent bulbs, all I would do is take the number of watts divide by 120V which would tell me how much current (AMPS) is needed and make sure there are enough circuits to cover that load plus 20% since once can only use 80% of capacity per breaker (i.e. a 15A Breaker can only have a 12A load on it).

We all know unemployment is high and the economy is struggling but the good thing is Union Pacific is hiring!

I like to follow UPs Twittter job postings (https://twitter.com/UPRailroadJobs).  It seems that most of the non-management positions are in multiple locations while the majority of management and technical positions are in Nebraska.

I know this topic can devolve into a heated political argument but my hope is that it will lead to a great discussion for MR manufacturers.

I was reading the following article today (posted on the DrudgeReport):  

http://news.yahoo.com/chinas-hu-urges-navy-prepare-combat-160509787.html

To summarize, the Chinese President said that the Chinese Navy needs to prepare for combat; strong saber rattling against the US.

HI Guys,

I am new to forum so sorry if wrong place wrong time??

I am in process of building my first layout. I am from South Africa but have always loved the American stuff>

I have found the dvd series by Joe Fugate extremely helpful so far.

I have viewed the dvd that goes through the ground cover up process where Joe uses the vermiculite / cement/plaster mix.

The question I have is what do I use for the areas in my station yards? Do I still apply a very thing covering of the said mix or plain gravel with powder coloring?