How It Started

It started as a simple google search, looking for a sugar beet factory for a personal model train layout. Ogden, UT to Pocatello, ID with strong emphasis on Cache Junction has always been the plan and location, during the 1950s era.

In 2019, after the Golden Spike 150th anniversary, I found a photo of a sugar beet refinery in the valley of Cache Junction. After a two-month long search for David Carpenter, AKA Bergen National Laser, he, and I were able to have a long talk together. Though Bergen has not been in operation for several years, David let me know he still has many of the files for his Cache Junction buildings, as well as many other buildings across the country. He and I, both being Marines, had a solid connection from the start. David's plan included a move to Sweden in early 2026. The wheels of imagination started to run on the tracks. David then introduced me to laser board (resin impregnated paper) he uses when building his models.

After a long 3-week search for the laser board, I came across Richard Shepard of RS Laser Kits. Richard and I had a long phone conversation. Two weeks later, a text came through from Richard. He was looking forward to retirement and made an offer to my wife, Eva, and I to buy his business! Wow! We traveled down to their home in Missouri on March 15, 2025, and talked with them about the idea. After a long couple of months, and enduring our share of bumps along the way, we were able to make it happen on July 1, 2025. Phoenix Model Buildings LLC opened and became operational, striving every day and welcoming new clients into our new venture.

 We set up an  E-Commerce webpage on SquareSpace, a Facebook page, an X , Instagram, Etsy, and began operating a business. After many tribulations, trials, and non-stop turmoil, the calendar switched to  2026, and this business finally hit smooth tracks.

Richard and his wife are enjoying their days of retirement living. David has moved overseas after accepting a very satisfying employment offer.

We have met so many very understanding and patient individuals since our first days, and we treasure each one of them, looking forward to being a part of countless layouts, dioramas, and model enthusiasts of all types.

The excitement in drafting this story is fascinating. And the best part, of all, is YOU!!