Committees/Contacts

Mike Petronella has been the York Train Meet Chairman for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA) since 2008, following over a decade of service on the York Committee that began in 1996. In this role, he leads event planning, vendor coordination, and logistics for one of TCA’s premier regional meets—Spring and Fall gatherings that draw approximately 13,000–14,000 attendees to the York Fairgrounds.
His efforts are appreciated across the community, with vendors and clubs often thanking him for his coordination help.
Under Mike’s stewardship, the York Train Meet remains a key recruiting tool for the TCA, drawing new members and affirming the Eastern Division’s reputation for well‑organized, engaging toy train events.

Diana Hood serves as the York Train Meet Registrar for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), managing all aspects of registration for members, guests, and tableholders.
Since joining the York Meet registration team in 2015, she has become the primary point of contact for anyone attending or reserving tables, ensuring smooth and efficient processing. Her dedication to the role is evident in her reliable service at the call center (reaching over 800 inquiries in some meets) and her coordination of both online and on-site registrations.
Diana’s commitment helps maintain the York Train Meet’s reputation for professionalism and guest-friendliness.

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Russell Youens serves as the Pre-Show Coordinator for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), where he plays a vital role in the successful execution of the York Train Meet. In this capacity, Russell oversees all aspects of the Pre-Show held immediately before the main meet, managing logistics, vendor setup, and ensuring a smooth experience for early arrivals. His careful coordination helps lay the groundwork for the preshow, providing a professional and organized start to one of the largest train shows in the country. A longtime and dedicated TCA member, Russell brings decades of volunteer experience to his role, including service with the Virginia Train Collectors Association (VTCA), where he has helped organize local events, coordinate hospitality, and engage members. His commitment to operational excellence and attention to detail make him a cornerstone of Pre-Show planning and execution, helping to uphold the tradition and quality of the York Meet Pre-Show for both sellers and attendees.

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Bob Buehler serves as the Social Media Chairman for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), leading efforts to amplify the Division’s presence across Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Since taking on the role, Bob has developed engaging content that highlights upcoming York Train Meets, showcases event photos, shares announcements, and encourages members to post their pictures. His efforts have significantly improved outreach, making the Division’s platforms a vibrant hub for both recruitment and community engagement.
In addition to social media leadership, Bob supports other communications efforts — such as coordinating YouTube Q&A sessions — helping to strengthen Eastern Division’s visibility and inviting atmosphere for both seasoned collectors and newcomers.

Rules & Regulations Chairman: Sam Geiser

Sam Geiser serves as the Eastern Division’s Rules & Regulations Chairman and Membership Chairman—a dual role that combines oversight of governance with stewardship of the division’s growth. Previously, he held every major office within the Division, including President, Vice President, Division Director, and WB&A Chapter President, giving him extensive institutional insight.
Since 2017, Sam has overseen membership policies and new-member orientation, coordinating the Division’s “one‑time guest rule” and outreach strategies aimed at converting attendees into long-term members.
In his Rules & Regulations capacity, he regularly reviews and updates the Division’s bylaws and policy manual, ensuring they remain compliant, clear, and aligned with TCA standards.
A former Eastern Division President, Sam combines his deep understanding of governance with a passion for growth and clarity, striving to make the York Train Meet both welcoming and well-structured for all participants.

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John Seresky is the Eastern Division’s RV Chairman for the Train Collectors Association (TCA), a role in which he oversees the setup and coordination of RV accommodations—typically supporting 80–100 units during York Train Meet events John manages RV registrations and logistics, serving as the primary contact for RV campers at both Spring and Fall York Train Meets.
John’s efforts ensure that member campers experience a seamless event stay with proper hook-ups and clear guidance, enhancing the overall convenience and hospitality of the meet. His commitment to behind‑the‑scenes planning reflects a vital component of the Eastern Division’s event success.

Sam Geiser serves as the Eastern Division’s Rules & Regulations Chairman and Membership Chairman—a dual role that combines oversight of governance with stewardship of the Division’s growth. Previously, he held every major office within the Division, including President, Vice President, Division Director, and WB&A Chapter President, giving him extensive institutional insight.
In his capacity as Membership Chairman, a role he has held since 2017, Sam oversees membership policies and new-member orientation. He manages key initiatives such as the Division’s “one-time guest rule,” which helps introduce first-time attendees to the York Train Meet and encourages long-term participation. His outreach strategies focus on growing the organization by welcoming new collectors and providing a clear pathway into the TCA community.

Robert Heine serves as the Eastern Division’s Lost & Found Chairman for the Train Collectors Association (TCA), acting as the go-to contact for locating missing items during major events like the York Train Meet. All found items are turned in to the Silver Hall Registration Desk, and Robert can be reached at (301) 585‑1280 or via email to assist with recovery.
A dependable and service‑minded volunteer, Robert helps ensure that attendees have a positive experience, even when personal items go astray. His vigilant oversight helps maintain trust and member satisfaction during high-traffic meets, making a meaningful, behind-the-scenes difference for the Eastern Division community.

Michael Hood serves as the Dealer Hall Coordinator for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), where he oversees one of the most critical aspects of the York Train Meet: the organization and management of the Dealer Halls. His role ensures that exhibitors and vendors are placed efficiently, treated professionally, and fully supported throughout the meet.
With a sharp attention to detail and strong organizational skills, Michael works year-round to coordinate table assignments, address dealer needs, and maintain clear communication between the Division and its many commercial participants. His ability to manage complex logistics with fairness and precision helps sustain the high standards that make the York Meet a nationally respected event.

Sarah Ziegler serves as the Call Center Coordinator for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), where she plays a crucial role in member support and event coordination by managing incoming inquiries related to the York Train Meet and other Division activities. As the friendly and knowledgeable voice on the other end of the phone, Sarah ensures that members receive accurate information and timely assistance.
With a calm and courteous demeanor, Sarah fields a wide range of questions—from registration concerns and hall assignments to general information about meet logistics. Her patience, professionalism, and deep familiarity with Eastern Division operations make her an invaluable resource for both members and vendors.

Ben Swann serves as the Volunteer Chairman for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), where he is responsible for recruiting, organizing, and supporting the many volunteers who help make the York Train Meet a success. His leadership ensures that every hall, table, and entrance operates smoothly thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers working behind the scenes.
Ben’s role requires a unique blend of coordination, communication, and hands-on involvement. From pre-meet planning to on-site supervision, he works tirelessly to assign roles, manage schedules, and provide guidance to both seasoned and first-time volunteers. His approachable style and attention to detail help foster a welcoming and productive environment for everyone involved.

Frank Malone serves as Chief of Security for the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association (TCA), where he plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and orderly conduct of Division events, most notably the York Train Meet. Drawing on his extensive background in law enforcement, Frank brings professionalism, vigilance, and a calm presence to every assignment.
With decades of experience as a law enforcement officer, Frank is well-versed in public safety protocols and emergency response planning. He works closely with event staff, volunteers, and local authorities to maintain a secure environment that allows members and guests to enjoy the hobby without concern.

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Michael S. Oher serves as the Eastern Division Webmaster for the Train Collectors Association (TCA), overseeing the development, maintenance, and functionality of the Division’s website. He also serves as Webmaster for the Metropolitan Division (METCA). At the National level, Michael contributes to TCA’s social media efforts. He also supports social media outreach for the Eastern Division and serves as Editor of TCA e*Train, TCA’s online magazine.
A second-generation TCA member, Michael was introduced to the Association by his late father, Jay R. Oher (TCA #96-42851), a respected American Flyer collector.
Continuing that legacy, Michael collects American Flyer and operates in N Scale, blending an appreciation for postwar classics with a love of modern layout design. A regular at York since 2015, Michael brings editorial skill, technical expertise, and heartfelt enthusiasm to the table.

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Sampson Hofmann serves as the Digital Media & Web Operations Coordinator for the Eastern Division, where they support and enhance the organization’s online presence through careful management, creative content updates, and technical oversight. In this role, he ensures that the division’s website remains a dynamic, accessible, and engaging resource for members and the wider community. Combining a keen eye for design with solid technical skills, he assists the webmaster in implementing web strategies, maintaining up-to-date content, troubleshooting site issues, and collaborating with leadership to keep digital platforms aligned with the division’s mission and vision.

Chuck Beedy serves as the Cybersecurity Chair for the Eastern Division, bringing decades of hands-on IT experience to the role. With a professional background that includes work as a desktop support technician, help desk manager, and ITIL specialist, Chuck combines technical expertise with a solutions-oriented mindset. He plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and security of the division’s digital systems, supporting email infrastructure, monitoring cybersecurity protocols, and assisting users with technical challenges. His thoughtful approach helps ensure a safe and efficient digital environment for members and administrators alike.

Larken Parr contributes to the Eastern Division’s online presence as Communications and Media Support Specialist. Leveraging his creative talents and digital media experience—developed through his successful Trains of Lark social media platforms—Larken supports the team with visual content design, video production, post scheduling, and audience engagement. His role includes managing day-to-day interactions across social platforms, assisting with campaign planning, and ensuring a consistent voice that reflects the division’s values and passion for the hobby. Larken’s energy and digital savvy help bring the EDTCA community to life online.

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Robert Newman serves as Consulting IT Analyst for the Eastern Division, offering high-level guidance on infrastructure, backend systems, and long-term digital strategy. Drawing on extensive experience with complex IT environments, Robert helps evaluate and improve the performance, scalability, and security of the division’s web platforms. His insights are instrumental in shaping the technology roadmap and supporting both current operations and future enhancements. With a strategic mindset and technical depth, Robert ensures the division’s digital tools remain effective and forward-thinking.