Hobbyists Prepare for Fifth Annual "Take a Model Train to Work Day" On November 4

Waukesha, WI (August 11, 2005) - For the fifth year, model railroaders have one more item to pack for their morning commutes as Model Trains: the World's Greatest Hobby sponsors Take a Model Train to Work Day. On Friday, November 4, 2005, enthusiasts around the country will showcase the pastime to new audiences as they bring their favorite locomotive or other hobby artifact to work.

Initiated in 2001, Take a Model Train to Work Day embodies the spirit of volunteerism fueling Model Trains: the World's Greatest Hobby - a grassroots campaign to raise visibility about model railroading. At offices like the General Motors Design Center in Warren, MI, Take a Model Train to Work Day has become an annual tradition, with dozens of employees participating every year.

"Take a Model Train to Work Day has evolved into a high point of the model railroading calendar, kicking off a busy season that culminates with the December holidays," said Model Railroader Editor Terry Thompson. "It's a terrific opportunity for modelers to showoff their handiwork and share their enthusiasm for this classic American pastime."

More than 500,000 American adults enjoy the model railroading hobby, spending $500 million annually. Model Trains: the World's Greatest Hobby celebrates model railroading in all its forms, from classic toy trains to the latest digital innovations. From large manufacturers and hobby shops to local clubs and individual hobbyists, the model railroading world has rallied around the campaign.

Over 1,100 model train clubs and 787 hobby shops participate in the outreach program. More than 1,200 model railroaders have volunteered as Ambassadors to discuss the hobby with community and civic organizations, aided in their presentations by a video starring actor and enthusiast Michael Gross.

Participants are encouraged to send photos and success stories from Take a Model Train to Work Day to Model Trains: the World's Greatest Hobby, P.O. Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187-1612. A selection of submissions will be published at www.greatesthobby.com and in affiliated magazines.