What: Behind-the-Scenes Shop Tour Where: Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Jamestown When: Tuesday, February 8, 2011 Time: 10 a.m. - noon Cost: Included with Park admission: $5 for adults, $3 for youths ages 6-17, children under five are free For More: 209-984-3953 or go to www.railtown1897.org Suggested Copy: Back by popular demand...mark your calendar for a special, behind-the-scenes Shop Tour of Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown! This is your chance to get an up-close look at current projects underway plus see newly completed projects including the recently restored Sierra No. 3, also known as the "Movie Star Locomotive." After a brief slide show, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteer host will guide visitors to the historic shops to meet skilled paid and volunteer staff who are actively working on projects and activities that keep the historic shops alive. You'll see work underway or just completed on Caboose No. 7, the No. 2 Shay and learn about other restoration projects that range from painting and cleaning cars to annual inspections of steam locomotives and much, much more! This special Shop Tour is a one-day-only event so mark your calendar and join the fun! For more, call 209-984-3953 or visit www.railtown1897.org. Traci Rockefeller Cusack T-Rock Communications 916-213-4373 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Railtown 1897 Seeks Interested Volunteers, Hosts Special Open House & Training Program Volunteer Open House Scheduled for February 12; Applications Due February 20 JAMESTOWN, Calif. - Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (SHP) is now accepting applications for men and women interested in volunteering to help keep the trains rolling in Jamestown! While no previous experience with trains or public service is required, Railtown 1897 SHP is looking for individuals who love history, trains, and interacting with the public. Recruitment is currently underway for the following volunteer positions in 2011: Car Hosts, Ticket Agents, Tour Guides, Public Greeters, and Fire Patrol Operators (entry level engine crew). While volunteer applications must be submitted by Sunday, February 20, and a thorough volunteer training program will begin in March, interested volunteers are invited to attend a Volunteer Open House on Saturday, February 12, beginning at 10 a.m. At the Open House, prospective volunteers will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the park staff, and talk to current volunteers to learn about the various positions that are available. Informal tours of the operation will be conducted, and snacks will be served. After interviews have been conducted and training completed, volunteers are required to devote a minimum of eight hours per month. Railtown 1897 SHP is known for its century-old steam maintenance shops and train rides, including popular rides behind the recently restored Sierra No. 3 (also known as the "Movie Star Locomotive"). In addition to the weekend excursion steam trains, Railtown 1897 SHP offers daily tours, roving interpreters, and many special events. Benefits for volunteering at Railtown 1897 SHP include membership in the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, free entrance and train rides at Railtown 1897 SHP and at the California State Railroad Museum, a variety of social activities, interesting training opportunities and guest speakers, discounts at the Depot Store, and participation in an annual volunteer recognition dinner. Volunteer Applications are available online at www.railtown1897.org. To explore additional ways to get involved, email park staff at railtownnews@parks.ca.gov or call 209-984-4408. About Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Operated by California State Parks with assistance from the nonprofit California State Railroad Museum Foundation, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park offers year-round tours plus train rides weekends April-October (selected dates only November-December). Known as "The Movie Railroad," the Park and its trains have been featured in hundreds of feature films, TV shows, and commercials. The Park is located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Reservoir Road in Jamestown, reached by highways 49/108. Open daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, the Park's operating hours vary by season: April-October, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; November-March, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call Railtown 1897 State Historic Park at (209) 984-3953, or visit our Web site at www.railtown1897.org * * * Calendar Announcement What: Volunteer Applications Accepted Now Where: Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Jamestown When: Volunteer Open House on Saturday, February 12 at 10 a.m. Applications are due by Sunday, February 20 Volunteer Training Program Begins in March Cost: Free For More: 209-984-4408 or visit www.railtown1897.org Suggested Copy: If you love history, trains and interacting with the public, consider becoming a Railtown 1897 State History Park volunteer! Applications are being accepted now for volunteer positions that include Car Hosts, Ticket Agents, Tour Guides, Public Greeters, and Fire Patrol Operators. A background in history or public service is not required, just a commitment and willingness to participate in this worthwhile experience. While not mandatory to attend, the Volunteer Open House will give you an opportunity to talk one-on-one with park staff and current volunteers to learn more about the volunteer program and its benefits. In addition to the popular train rides, Railtown 1897 SHP offers daily tours, roving interpreters, and many special events. For more information about volunteering at Railtown 1897, call 209-984-4408 or visit www.railtown1897.org Traci Rockefeller Cusack T-Rock Communications 916-213-4373