We occasionally travel from Arkansas (where there are no Menards stores but PLENTY of Walmarts) to Illinois to visit family. We usually stop along the way at a Menard's store (and Steak N Shake), and I'll visit the train section. I have a Menard's Electric Generating Station; it's re-purposed as an oil pipeline terminal near the oil field on my layout. I also have their Train Store. I like their use of lighting and animated signage.
Thankfully, Menard's doesn't "copycat" buildings previously made famous by Lionel or MTH. Their iconic dog is a "trademark" of sorts.
Mike Mottler
