'Thomas' event rapidly approaches

As repairs to the Texas State Railroad track continue, officials with American Heritage Railways are laying plans for "A Day Out with Thomas," featuring Thomas the Tank Engine.

Bob Goldsberry, executive director for the Rusk Chamber of Commerce, said that at the end of business Sept. 29, 3,683 tickets have been purchased for the Thomas event, scheduled for Oct. 19-21 and Oct. 26-28.

Thomas will depart from the Rusk depot every 45 minutes beginning at 10 a.m. daily.

Ticket sales are averaging 100 per day, with American Heritage officials expecting that rate to triple as the Thomas event draws closer, said Mr. Goldsberry.

Track repairs remain a priority as the smaller washouts have been repaired, and plans are being finalized for the repairs to the washout at Bean's Creek. The Bean's Creek washout will have no effect on the Thomas runs, as rides on Thomas the Tank Engine require less than four miles of track.

"A Day Out with Thomas" will not only feature Thomas the Tank Engine, but Sir Topham Hat. There will be various forms of entertainment at the Thomas event, including jugglers, booths, pictures and souvenirs. Tickets may be purchased at www. thomasandfriends.com.