The "TLC Hospital Train"
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The most unique riding unit within the TLC Corps belongs to Noble Maurice Riopel and it's affectionately referred to as the "TLC Hospital Train". This unit started life as a "dune buggy" that was originally converted at one time by another Noble into a miniature Ambulance for parade use. Noble Maurice saw something more lurking under the surface and he acquired the unit and picked up the challenge. After stripping the old body off of the machine Noble Maurice, with the assistance of family and the other members of TLC, rebuilt it as a larger riding unit capable of carrying the driver and 4 to 6 riders (depending upon their size).
The Nobles were not finished there though. A short time later they learned of the existence of some keg trailers that were available for "adoption" in the small community of Alix, just south of Edmonton. It was quickly decided that these trailers would make a perfect addition to Noble Maurice's tractor but there was still something missing. What is a Shrine unit without smiling children? Noble Maurice's "kids" were custom made with love for the TLC Hospital Train by Dorothy Utas of Fort Assiniboine, Alberta. No matter the event. Noble Maurice's TLC Train and his "kids" are always a crowd favourite and they always serve as a constant reminder for Shriners and non-Shriners alike that
"it's all about the kids".
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Originally in service with Al Shamal as a miniature ambulance, this riding unit was given a new lease on life when Noble Maurice decided to take it on as a project and convert it into a multi-seat miniature fire truck. |
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Once the old body was stripped off the task then became to build the frame and foundation for the remainder of the body. The suspension had to be upgraded as well to allow for extra riders. |
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To say this task was a big one is no understatement. Everything had to be planned out
from the ground up and accommodations had to be made for all controls and gauges. |
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The project finely started to take shape and it was obvious that something special was being created. |
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After all of the hard work and effort of Noble Maurice and others, the TLC Hospital Train has proven to be a crowd favourite. It draws kids, both young and old, and is a unit that both Noble Maurice and TLC can be truly proud of. |
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