Santa's trains will depart Elgin depot Dec. 13-14

Thanks to a generous donation from Horizon Wind, the Santa Trains will run in 2008, making it possible to offer the rides for free with just a can of food from each passenger.

The canned food goes to the county food banks. This popular train ride gives kids and families an opportunity to experience the fun and excitement of riding a train, with the added enjoyment of a visit with Santa Claus on the train.

The train will depart from the Elgin depot at 9 and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Dec. 13, for a 1.5-hour trip along the Grande Ronde River. The train will then follow the same schedule in Wallowa Dec. 14. The wind farm company also sponsored the 2007 Santa Trains in both counties.

Organizers say that without the help of Horizon Wind and many other groups, individuals and volunteers, many would not have the opportunity to ride the Eagle Cap Excursion Train.