Edited by Bill and Bobbie Molony, the Spike & Tie is the official newsletter of Blackhawk and is printed six times a year and mailed to all current members and associates in good standing.

The Spike & Tie is an exclusive benefit of membership, providing detailed coverage of local railfan and railroad news, including:

• Current Freight Railroad News
  The latest railroad news from the Chicago area and around the Midwest, including the latest mergers and infrastructure projects - including stories not covered by the mainstream press or even other railfan publications!
• Current Passenger Railroad News
  Coverage of the local passenger rail service, including in-depth coverage of the area's Amtrak and Metra routes as well as proposals for expanded services and High-Speed Rail initiatives.
• Historical Preservation
  News on local railroad preservation and restoration efforts, including endangered railroad structures and equipment.
• Local Events
  A calendar of local events including train shows, open houses, swap meets, and other railfan organization meetings throughout Chicago and the surrounding area.
• Blackhawk News
  Updates on Blackhawk meetings, projects, activities and special events.
• Historical Railroads
  Exclusive articles about the railroads, interurbans and streetcar systems that have served Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.