By JENNIFER AMATO
Staff Writer
NORTH BRUNSWICK — A local group is riding the high rails after its members donated their time to help veterans.
Members of the Raritan Valley Hi-Railers set up a large train display for the Our Lady of Peace Knights of Columbus on Sept. 10 and 11.
“We’re here to put an exhibit on and raise a little bit of money for veterans,” said the group coordinator, John Giuliano.
The members spent about nine hours on Sept. 9 setting up the train tracks, having built the sections of modules at home beforehand.
“Everybody owns a little bit of real estate, just like they own their own trains,” Giuliano said.
Growing up in the ’50s when the hobby was more popular, Giuliano said it is disappointing that the younger generations have a diminished interest in the model train industry.
However, 13-year-old Colin Daly of Holmdel is trying to reinvigorate that spirit, having joined the Hi-Railers about seven months ago with his grandfather, Dennis Ely.
“I always wanted to have a huge layout, but I can’t do that in my house,” Colin said. “It’s fun.”
“Hopefully somebody is inspired to get into the hobby at the same time,” Giuliano said.
The Knights of Columbus raised almost $1,700 over the weekend that will be donated to veterans charities.
Contact Jennifer Amato at [email protected].