The Gift Of Membership Offers Rail Fans Privileges (NAPSA)—A membership to an online club can put consumers on the right track when shopping for gifts for railroad enthusiasts. RailFanClub, sponsored by the Association of American Railroads, is a members-accessible club that offers railroad industry news, a monthly club newsletter, train discussion and photo swap, fun downloads, trivia, videos, a train simulation demo, a freight railroad field guide, and more. Plus, it offers resources to help rail fans pass their knowledge and enthusiasm for trains to the next generation. The club offers free resources to young people eager to learn about the fascinating world of freight trains. While RailFanClub offers free resources, a $19.99 membership entitles serious railfans to special privileges. Proceeds go to the association’s Railroad Research Foundation, whose mission is to promote the railroad industry through research, communication, and education. Membersare entitled to: A welcomeletter, membership card, our famous AAR train whistle and a refrigerator magnet. Access to the members area of the Web site, where free video and audio downloads are available to members. A monthly newsletter featur- ing club news, events, industry news and information that allows members to stay informed on the industry andtheir hobby. Special benefits from the club’s group of partners which may include discounts or give-aways. For example, the club partners Purchasing a membership in an online club may betheright gift for a railroad fan. with a number of rail museums across the country—such as Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, Pa. These “museum partners” offer rail fans access to special exhibits, excursions, and educational programs. Club members mayalso receive free gifts or special savings by showing their membership card. * Occasional give-aways, such as books, videos and other rail fan resource materials. A free download via the members section of the Web site of the “Trainmaster Potash Run.” This is a 15-minute simulation of the experience of engineering a locomotive and train. Membership can also be an excellent gift for teachers. The club provides free educational materials in all grade levels, K-12, including books, videos, CDROMs, maps, safety brochures, activity sheets and supplies such as pencils and bookmarks. To learn more, visit www.rail fanclub.org. ween ene nee ene een enn e ee OC eee eee eee e eens Editors Note: This is the first in a series of three releases.
