Model Train Show to Benefit Japanese Tsunami Victims

Boy Scout Troop 964 will hold its at Saunders Middle School this weekend, with a very special guest. The Japanese ambassador to the U.S. will make an appearance, as all proceeds from the show will be going to support Bouy Scout Troop 2 in Ishinomaki, Japan, where a tsunami caused destruction last year.

The show, which has been held by Troop 964 annually since 1998, features one of the largest recurring HO-scale model train layouts in the Mid-Atlantic, according to Fred Wetzel, Troop 964's train show chairman.

The show is open to the public and includes dozens of model railroad modules, created by scouts and model railroad enthusiasts—enough to fill the main gymnasium and several classrooms at the school.

A large LEGO train layout, door prizes and a restaurant called the "Club Car" will be featured. There will also be workshops for scouts to earn the railroading merit badge.

is located at 13557 Spriggs Rd. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The Japanese ambassador is expected to visit from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is $7 for adults, $3 for students and seniors, and free for children under 5. For more information, see the Troop 964 website.