Aided by Penn College Presence, It's Full Steam Ahead for 'Expo'

This weekend's Will Huffman Toy Train Expo, a holiday homage to a "less-complicated world of wonder and nostalgia," will once again include volunteers from the Penn College family. When the 24th annual event opens its doors at Park Place, 800 W. Fourth St., three college employees will be among those with model-railroad layouts on display: Max E. Ameigh, a part-time faculty member in advertising art; Patrick M. Breen, a first-shift custodian; and – exhibiting for the first time – Cletus G. Waldman Jr., clinical director of radiography. The Expo honors its late founder, who said, "Every Christmas tree should have a model train running around it," and whose sons further the college connection: "Conductor" Eric W. is a shipping/receiving worker and Bruce E. is a former instructor of media arts/video production. Helping hands come from other corners of the campus, including the General Services workers who delivered more than 65 tables in Wednesday's sub-freezing temperatures. Additionally, personal computers and monitors on loan from the college's Information Technology Services (with thanks to Mike Cunningham, vice president for information technology/chief information officer, and Brad A. Miller, manager of technical support) will allow attendees to test their locomotive skill through simulation software. Others from Penn College include Eric Huffman's wife, Linda D., a General Services custodian who staffs the admission table, and Patricia M. Russell, a part-time/substitute faculty member in building construction management, who is affiliated with the host venue. A portion of this year’s adult donations will be shared with the Lycoming County SPCA and the Lycoming Animal Protection Society Inc.; children are admitted free. Held in conjunction with the neighborhood's Victorian Christmas, the event will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and noon-4 p.m. Sunday.
Photos provided