WILLITS, 5/30/23 — Many Mendocino County residents and riders of the Skunk Train are familiar with “Train Singer” Greg Schindel, who has been a musical fixture on the train since 1988. Schindel is currently facing cancer, and a special train event on June 3 will raise proceeds to assist his medical treatments and other costs.
The train is leaving from Willits at 1:30 p.m. on June 3 at tickets can be purchased here: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/skunktrain/items/122326/availability/1199295547/book/?full-items=yes
Here’s the announcement with additional details:
WILLITS, CA— The public is invited to celebrate the contributions and work of cherished Train Singer® Greg Schindel on a special Skunk Train, departing from the Willits train depot on June 3 at 1:30 p.m.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the well-known singer, now battling cancer, who has entertained tens of thousands of passengers on the Skunk Train since 1988.
Schindel was diagnosed with stage four metastatic prostate cancer earlier this year and the community has come together to help raise funds. All proceeds from the Skunk Train event will go toward financial support and medical treatments.
“Greg is an iconic part of our Skunk Train experience. His musical talent and remarkable spirit have brought joy to so many for decades,” said Skunk Train General Manager Efstathios Pappas. “We, and the community, want to express our support and love. We are hoping that everyone comes out to this special event.”
Departing from Willits at 1:30 p.m., the benefit train will take a two hour,16-mile round trip through the ancient redwoods, traveling to the Noyo River Canyon and back with a brief stop at Crowley.
Schindel became involved in the California music scene in the 1960s and 1970s. He developed an original sound described as “Northern California Transcendental Folk Jazz” and was also the lead singer for the band “Kindred Souls.” Schindel moved to Willits in 1983 where he worked for the Willits Unified School District as a visual and performing arts director. In recent years, he has continued to work as a substitute teacher in addition to his role as the Train Singer.
Tickets may be booked at: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/skunktrain/items/122326/availability/1199295547/book/?full-items=yes