It's a 'Tank full of fun'
Thomas the Tank whistles into Rusk for special engagement
BY LELAND ACKER

The moment thousands of children across Texas have been waiting for arrives Friday when Thomas the Tank Engine pulls into the Rusk depot of the Texas State Railroad.

Lori Kastrop, marketing manager for American Heritage Railways, said approximately 7,000 tickets have been sold for the Texas State Railroad's "A Day Out with Thomas" event.

In addition to taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, visitors will have the opportunity to hear story-telling, watch Thomas videos on a big television screen, meet Sir Topham Hat and enjoy live music with Ian Chandler.

"Ian will be singing children's songs," Ms. Kastrop said. "He's really looking forward to it."

Mr. Chandler is best known locally for his performances with the local rock group, "The Papers." Ms. Kastrop said Ian's enthusiasm is spreading to his stage setting.

"He's trying to make his backdrop look like a boxcar," she said.

Parking will be available in downtown Rusk, with some parking available on site.

Ms. Kastrop recommended that visitors to the Thomas event arrive one hour before their departure time. Those who plan to purchase their tickets the day of the ride should arrive early.

"The ticket office will open at 9:30 a.m.," she said.

Those who park downtown will be able to ride shuttle busses to the depot at no charge.

"The shuttle busses will run continuously throughout the day beginning at 9 a.m.," Ms. Kastrop said. "Visitors can plan to stay for the other activities after their ride with Thomas."

A Day Out with Thomas begins Friday with Thomas' first run scheduled for 10 a.m. He will depart from the depot every 45 minutes from then until 3:15 p.m. Thomas will be in Rusk on Oct. 19-21 and 26-28.