Michael F. Easley
Governor
State of North Carolina
Office of the Governor
Governor's Press Office
State Capitol, Raleigh, NC 27603-8001
(919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005
FAX (919) 733-5166
For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Sherri Johnson
Date: Nov. 18, 2005 Phone: 919/733-5612
GOV. EASLEY GIVES REINDEER A VACATION
Santa To Tour North Carolina By Train
RALEIGH – Gov. Easley today announced that Rudolph and the gang will get a rest as Santa tours the heart of North Carolina by train on upcoming Saturdays, Dec. 3 and 10.
“A great way to enjoy some quality time with the family during this busy holiday season is by riding the train,” said Easley. “I have talked with Santa and he said he is looking forward to meeting kids of all ages during his ride through North Carolina. Rudolph and the other reindeer are grateful for this break, so that they will be ready to make their much-anticipated journey on Dec. 24.”
Santa Claus will be making special trips through the state on North Carolina’s Amtrak trains, the Piedmont (train 73) and the Carolinian (train 80) between Raleigh and Charlotte. Passengers can join Santa on these early morning out-and-back excursions, or make it a day or weekend trip and enjoy other fun holiday events in any one of the cities along the route.
Passengers who are interested in the early morning excursions with Santa from the Raleigh-Durham area can board train 73 southbound for Greensboro then make the return trip via train 80 northbound. Passengers in the Charlotte area who want to ride the train with Santa can board train 80 northbound for Salisbury then return via train 73 southbound.
Reservations are required, and early reservations are recommended. Children age 2 and younger ride free with an accompanying adult. Children ages 3 to 15 pay half fares, and seniors age 62 or older receive a discount.
For more information, visit www.bytrain.org. For reservations, visit the nearest staffed Amtrak station or call 1-800-USA-RAIL (872-7245).
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