Jackson's sold-out Santa Express adds one more run

The Santa Express tourist train operated by the St. Louis Iron Mountain Railway in Jackson announced Friday that it would add one more opportunity to take a ride with the jolly old elf this year. Customer demand prompted expanding the schedule, as tickets for the round trip holiday-themed rides between Jackson and Gordonville have been sold out for weeks. "We are trying to give people a chance to get on the train," said Patty Lynch, a railway office volunteer. Hot chocolate and treats are sold during the two-hour trip while Santa Claus reads the children's book "The Polar Express" over the speaker system and gives each child a chance to sit in his lap. The final opportunity to board the Santa Express this year will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday. Tickets are available by calling 1-800-455-7245 or 243-1688.