Chuck Ricketts, The SS & S in Olympia WA

Seventy-five years ago this Christmas, I received an electric train for my birthday at Christmas. Now, seventy-five years later, I’m still “playing with trains.” I don’t believe I’m the only one who got started in this great hobby by receiving a train set.

Before I left Arizona to move to the 4th Division in 2007, a couple of friends and I started donating a train at Christmas. The second year, we called it “Train A Kid.” Later we renamed it “Train A Child”.

I still carry on that tradition and I am making a plea for you to join me. “Train A Child” yourself this holiday season. Whether it’s your child, a relative, neighbor’s child or you donate a train to some charity, it doesn’t matter. Spend a little or spend a lot, depending on your circumstances. “Thomas” toy trains are advertised at under $10.00.

Help build this hobby we love and make a world a little brighter this holiday season. Join me and “Train A Child!” Happy Holidays,