"A" Train Show pulls into Avondale High School for day of fun

Avondale School District announces the 12th annual “A” Train Show on Sunday, January 17. The event, which attracted almost 4000 visitors in 2015, is the largest model train show in the state and boasts nearly 400 vendor tables and working train exhibits. Admission is $4 per person; children 12 and under are free.

Frank Lams, Avondale’s assistant superintendent for financial services and a train hobbyist himself, has coordinated the “A” Train Show since its inception. According to Lams, the show is one of the best family entertainment values in town. “It’s a very kid-friendly event with activities geared specifically for them,” he said. “We have a craft room for “Little Engineers” and The Great Train Race where they can operate a train’s controls during a race against their friends; they can have their picture taken with a giant Thomas cut-out and they can enjoy a Thomas the Tank movie playing in the high school’s auditorium. All of the activities are free for the kids with an adult’s paid admission of $4. That’s a lot of fun at a great price.”

The event benefits the Avondale Education Foundation (AEF), a group focused on providing financial support for classroom initiatives, student scholarships, program advancement, staff enrichment and opportunities outside the typical parameters of a public school district budget. AEF president Tom DelPup says the “A” Train Show is the Foundation’s primary fundraising initiative for the school year and will provide funds that will touch the learning experience of every Avondale School District student. “We always look forward to the “A” Train Show and appreciate that the event brings families together while raising funding for our students and raising awareness about the Foundation,” said DelPup.

The “A” Train Show doors are open from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Avondale High School, located at 2800 Waukegan Street in Auburn Hills. Parking is available on site at Avondale High School and shuttle rides are also available from the Boys and Girls Club of Auburn Hills on Squirrel and Waukegan and Church’s Lumber Yard north of the corner of Waukegan and Squirrel.