Clowning Around: Toots Caboose at Train Day

"Toots Caboose" and the Amtrak Cascades Character Clown Corps made their first public appearance May 9th, at Portland's National Train Day festivities. The new clowns - led by Boss Clown Angel Ocasio - entertained children (and adults), handed out Train Day memorabilia, directed attendee traffic and more at the Union Station event. The spotlight at the event was shared with the "World's Most Famous Steam Locomotive" SP 4449 - the only surviving example of Southern Pacific Railroad's (SP) GS-4 class of steam locomotives. Thousands of people came out to enjoy the beautiful day and railroad-related activities. Check out the "Toots" Flickr gallery of photos

Having recently completed clown school, in preparation for upcoming Portland Rose Festival events, the character of "Toots Caboose" continues to evolve. Unable to find an over-sized bandana, I found a fabric with similar print and Ed made a giant one for me. Toots also needed a bit of a "caboose" so he now has a stuffed rear-end.

With Amtrak Cascades as the sponsor for the Character Clown Corps, the National Train Day event was a very appropriate debut for the troupe. Future public appearances include:

• Friday, May 22, 2009 • Portland Rose Festival • Opening of Waterfront Village & Busker's Parade • Waterfront Park • Portland • TBA: Late afternoon/early evening

• Wednesday, June 3, 2009 • Portland Rose FestivalFred Meyer Junior Rose Festival Parade • Hollywood District • Portland

• Saturday, June 6, 2009 • Portland Rose FestivalKey Bank Grand Floral Parade • Memorial Coliseum • Downtown Portland

• Sunday, June 7, 2009 Portland Rose FestivalWaterfront Village closing festivities

My first name is "Toots" and my last name is "Caboose."

© 2009 Jeff Fisher LogoMotives

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