Hi Miles. Yes, that was my layout on the cover and lead article. It was a big thrill, for sure! I was also in the Model Railroad Planning 2001 issue where I discussed my surround staging concept.
I've decided to throw in this picture to show a more distant shot of the rock cut for our friend who was asking about making realistic mountains. After weathering the rock, I then added ground foam along rock ledges and planted the odd tree here and there. I find that achieving a balance between the greyness of the rocks and the green of the foliage helps produce a finer scene.
Oh yeah, that's B&M FT4217 exiting Marshall Cut. I numbered the unit after a photograph a friend had taken well over 50 years ago of the same unit while he was working for the Boston and Maine.
Indeed, sentimental reasons are great launching pads for all aspects of this great hobby!