CHECKING IN WITH ... THE TRAIN CROSSING:

A hobby is a good way to combat the stresses of the struggling economy and the mudslinging of the presidential election, so this week we decided to check in with John Amir from the Train Crossing.

The Train Crossing, at 1089 Baker St. in Costa Mesa, is a family-owned and -operated store that specializes in model railroading.

When did the Train Crossing first open its doors?

The Train Crossing first opened about 20 years ago but has been a train store under a different name for nearly 40 years.

What draws people to model railroading?

Oftentimes model railroading makes adults feel like kids again, or a customer will want to replicate an area they grew up in. Some people use model railroading as a way to draw children away from video games.

Are there regulars who frequent the place? Or is it a mixture of new and old customers?

The store receives regular customers that come in that range in three different categories. Some are collectors that buy something and leave it in the box forever, while others buy something and tear it open as soon as they get home, and then there is the hybrid customer that does a little bit of both.

Which gauge of locomotive seems to sell the best, H0, N or G?

Most of the year HO and N scales are the best selling, but as the holidays come around, G-scale, such as Lionel and LGB, start selling the best because people like to put them around their Christmas trees.

What sets the Train Crossing apart from other hobby stores?

Other than the fact that we sell only model railroad supplies, the Train Crossing offers a great selection and supplies to train enthusiasts.

For more information, call (714) 549-1596