CONWAY – Smiling faces and feelings of glee will be in abundance next week when the Conway Human Development Center opens its campus and antique train to the public as part of the second annual Polar Express holiday event.
The public is invited to attend from 4 to 7 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8 at the center’s train station, 150 E. Siebenmorgen Road.
Kids and adults will have a chance to ride the train, participate in crafts and take a photo with Santa. All activities are free. Photos with Santa are $5, and the money goes back to the center’s volunteer council.
Sarah Murphy, the center’s superintendent, deems Polar Express as a gift to the community.
“It’s such a fun time for our residents and our staff,” said Murphy. “We’re so happy that we can share the moment with the community.”
The train has a 1950s Ford model 600 tractor engine. It has 32 horsepower and the transmission is from a Ford three-quarter ton truck.
“It’s a historic piece,” Murphy said. “It’s been totally remodeled.”
The Conway Symphony Orchestra Quartet and carolers from Chic-fil-A Leader Academy will provide additional Christmas cheer.
The center sits on an expansive 409 acre campus and provides comprehensive residential care to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
“This year we were able to add a lot of community support. We have non-profits, churches, real estate agents who have participated,” Murphy stated. “With the increased support from the community, it will be more fun for everyone involved.”
Compass Academy, Pam McDowell Properties, Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County, Children’s Advocacy Alliance, Village Park of Conway, Kindred Hospice, Life Song Baptist Church of Greenbrier, The Bethlehem House, CHDC Recreation Departments, the Habilitation and Training Team, Intensive Training Team, Individual Assistance Team and the Total Care Team all created Christmas scenes for Polar Express.
The free coffee is complements of Zeteo Coffee.
For additional information about Polar Express or services of the center, call (501) 329-6851.
CUTLINE
Santa Claus greets a group of children.
