Riding the “Polar Express”

Riding the “Polar Express” BY KAREN COOPER

On Christmas Eve, a steam locomotive train known as the “Polar Express” stops at the house of a boy who has become skeptical about the existence of Santa Claus. The conductor says the train is traveling to the North Pole, and the boy, although reluctant at first, climbs aboard. One of the most beloved Christmas books, which became an equally beloved Christmas movie in 2004, the Polar Express has fascinated countless children and grown-ups since it was originally written by Chris Van Allsburg in 1985. North Carolina is one of only a few places in the world where children and families can delight in the experience of riding the “Polar Express” and visiting Santa at the North Pole. Inspired by the story, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s “Polar Express” train takes its passengers on a ride they will never forget.

Passengers on the “Polar Express” receive a golden train ticket to board the festive vintage coaches. With music from the movie playing in the background, passengers are greeted by their hosts who will act out the story, sing, dance, and serve them treats. Guests are treated to hot cocoa as they listen to, and read along with, the story of the “Polar Express.” There are many exciting Christmas- themed displays to see along the way as the train makes its way to its destination, the North Pole where Santa Claus is waiting. The excitement builds as Santa boards the train to greet the passengers and offer each child a special gift…just as in the story. On the way back to town, there are Christmas carol singing and more festivities hosted by the crew of servers and actors. Many children and grown-ups alike wear their pajamas for the ride…just like the kids in the story.

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is located in the charming town of Bryson City, NC. More than 90,000 passengers ride each year! The “Polar Express” ride takes about 1¼ hours, round-trip.

All departures are from the Bryson City Train Depot in Bryson City, NC. Entrance to the parking lot is located at 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC 28713. Guests should plan to be at the train depot one hour before departure.

Near the depot, charming shops and eateries are all decorated in Christmas lights for the Holiday Season. If you happen to love fudge, you will probably want to check out the local fudge shop that’s been in Bryson City since 1978! The Smoky Mountains Trains Museum is a wonderful local attraction, and admission is included with all train tickets. Be sure to visit before or after your trip!

The “Polar Express” train runs from November 10th through December 31st, 2022.

HOW TO RESERVE TICKETS -

Higher rates are on peak days, weekends, and the week before Christmas. Book early to get your preferred date and time. Many dates and times sell out. A special steam excursion is planned for New Year’s Eve! All fares are subject to a 7% Historic Preservation Fee and 6.75% state tax. Ride times begin at 5 PM every day. There are no rides on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day. COACH CLASS: starts at $43/adults; $29/children ages 2-12; children under 2 are free. CROWN CLASS: starts at $53/adults; $39/ children 2-12; $11/children 23 months and under. PREMIUM CROWN CLASS: starts at $62/ adult; $44/children 2-12; and $16/children 23 months and under. FIRST CLASS: starts at $67/adult; $47/ children 2-12; $19/children 23 months and under.

Go to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad website to buy tickets.

The Bryson City Depot is one hour from Asheville, two hours from Knoxville, and three hours from Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chattanooga, respectively.

BRANDON JAMES:

FINANCIAL ADVISOR AT MARZANO CAPITAL GROUP

It’s not uncommon these days for people to start one career and then to – quite suddenly – find a new and unexpected opportunity that results in a change in direction. Such is the case for Brandon James, a financial advisor at Marzano Capital Group.

“I spent the first part of my career as a Subway franchisee,” explained Brandon. “I owned one store and had partial ownership in two others. While it was a great experience in many ways, running three restaurants with three children at home is very challenging. So after much reflection and many discussions with my wife, we decided I needed a change.

“I was still young enough to try something new, and when speaking with my own financial advisor, he shared with me about the opportunities in his field. I was intrigued by the process of financial management, so in the spring of 2017, I began transitioning out of Subway. I joined Northwestern Mutual as a financial advisor in August 2017.”

Brandon continued, “It was really interesting to be on the other side of the table. While I work with clients in all stages of life to meet their financial goals, I still have a soft spot for working with entrepreneurs and business owners because I know their unique challenges firsthand.”

While Brandon is involved with building financial plans and working with clients, he shared that one of his favorite things is evaluating the risks and benefits of investments. “I compare it to examining the engine of a car. Only when we open the hood and look around can we fully appreciate and understand the mechanics of what makes the car run. The same is true with finances. I enjoy diving in and examining the options that can really make a person’s investments run well.”

After a few years at Northwestern Mutual, Brandon joined Marzano Capital Group in 2020. “I had met Mike McGilvary at the Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce as a new financial advisor. When the opportunity to join Marzano Capital Group came up, it seemed a great fit. I was very intrigued by the opportunity to work in an independent environment. It’s given me more flexibility to think outside the box and help the clients we serve.”

Behind Making Dollars Making Sense

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC, Investment advice offered through Independent Advisor Alliance, a registered investment advisor, Independent Advisor Alliance and Marzano Capital Group are separate entities from LPL Financial.

TWO FUN FACTS & A TIP

Brandon James shares two fun facts and his best financial tip: 1. If Brandon could have any other career – he would want to be a PGA Golf Pro, though he admits he would need more practice for that career.

2. Brandon is an Eagle Scout and is still active in the scouting community, currently serving on the Eagle Alumni Committee, “Awards & Recognition.”

BRANDON’S TIP: Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses because, in reality, the Joneses might be broke.

Together, they have three children – Ali, Ana, and Aiden. Brandon is a Clemmons native and a graduate of West Forsyth High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from East Carolina University.

Brandon enjoys playing golf and guitar and spending time outdoors in his spare time. He and his family love to travel, especially visiting and discovering new places.

Brandon is always eager to help individuals and families plan and prepare for their financial futures through sound financial management. “The relationship with our financial advisors is deeply personal, and it is anchored in trust. I know how much I depended on my financial advisor before transitioning into this field. It’s my goal to be the same kind of resource to the clients we serve at Marzano Capital Group.”

Marzano Capital Group is located at 2625 Neudorf Road, Suite 400 in Clemmons. Call them at 336.766.0464 or visit them online at MarzanoCapitalGroup.com. Also, be sure to like their page on Facebook.