Eighth-graders at EXCEL Academy in McDonough recently learned about notable developments of transportation in Henry County and across the state.

  As part of their Georgia Studies class, the students assembled for a capstone event at the school’s Media Center on Friday. There, they examined three model railroad layouts provided by the Middle Georgia Model Railroad Club.

  EXCEL instructor Don Dunlap launched a discussion about the ramifications of transportation decisions over the years. Clayton Carte, who runs a blog titled “Moving Henry Forward,” then addressed current transportation issues. Henry County Transportation Planner Sam Baker also spoke regarding transportation plans for the area’s future.

  At McDonough City Hall, Mayor Billy Copeland talked to the students about transportation-related decisions by the City Council.

  The day also included a presentation by John Quinn on the Camp Creek train wreck of 1900 in McDonough. Students also visited the Polk Interactive Museum for a new perspective on McDonough history and the impact of the train wreck.

  The group toured the Square and spoke with Dickson House owner Jea Gackowski before lunch at KirbyG’s Diner.  KirbyG’s Owner, Neil Daniell, relayed tales of paranormal activity at the diner as part of the festivities.

  Students also stopped by Heritage Park to see the No. 7 train engine, the steam locomotive involved in the Camp Creek wreck.  They also visited the memorial marker on Ga. Highway 42, and a memorial with white crosses at the site.