There's a rumor on the atlas board that Charlie Vlk (nchooch) is no longer with Kato - if its true, I hope he is doing well. Charlie understood the N market as well as anyone - sure would be a blow to Kato's US N scale efforts.
To AJB, YES.....Charlie Vik is no longer with Kato, I was told that by Kato staff a week ago. I think that this is a loss for Kato as Charlie was a very knowledgeable model railroader. I've had "discussions" with Charlie on Trainboard about CNR engines and USRA Pacifics and I can say that Charlie has an excellent knowledge about the subject of steam and model railroading in both Canada and the USA. Of course he has his qwn personal opinions on what his own preferences may be in model railroading and he has a right to project that preference on a public stage like trainboard. I hope for the benefit of all of us that Charlie will remain a member of this sounding board on model railroading with his own personal email address.
I posted the information to the Atlas list. You can read the original posts here: http://www.trainboard.com/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=9;t=001985 Mike - NYC1956
Effective May30 I was no longer at Kato USA. I will be establishing a Research and Development and Artwork Service to the Model Railroad Industry based in the Chicago area. I will continue to be active on the lists and forums. Charlie Vlk
Good to know you are still with us Charlie But now it means that I really will have to get on with some early intermodal items
Charlie, Good luck with your new endeavours, if we can be of any assistance here at Trainboard feel free to drop me a line.
Well Charlie since your no longer with Kato, might you tell us whats in the works in terms of new N locos to be produced or on the drawing boards before you left. N-quireing minds want to know
Great to have you here, even if it as a "Newbie". Also the best of Luck and Success being on your own in the "World's Greatest Hobby".
It would be unprofessional of me to make Kato product announcements here or in any other forum. Besides, I cannot predict what Kato is actually going to do vs. what was scheduled the last time I saw a proposed production schedule. It was considerably cut back from normal which is the only reason that they would give me for my not being part of the organization..... There is, however, plenty of stuff coming from other manufacturers, and some new ones coming on the scene in the future, so don't spend your hobby money on other things just yet; there will be plenty to buy over the next 18 months or so. Charlie
Welcome Charlie, looking foward to your input here. I always valued your comments on the nScale list.
A very professional attitude indeed. I'm thinking that as in many businesses, Charlie may be bound by a legal document that requires "non-disclosure." To speak could possibly also burn a bridge or two he needs to help get that new business rolling. More new stuff in the next 18 months? My poor wallet is already reeling from the avalanche of wonders the last few months! Hopefully this employment change won't delay completion of the Galesburg & Savanna main line? BoxcabE50
