Live events planned for Washington and New York

National Geographic Kids and "Toot & Puddle" are teaming with Amtrak for the "Read & Ride" Travel Sweepstakes running throughout April 2010. To enter for a chance to win a trip for four to Washington, D.C. courtesy of Amtrak, and a tour of National Geographic Society headquarters and other area landmarks, fans of Toot and Puddle can visit the sweepstakes page on www.tootandpuddle.com.

Toot and Puddle are the intrepid best friends and adventurers of the popular children's book series and animated preschool television show airing on Nick Jr., the 24-hour commercial-free, educational preschool network from Nickelodeon.

While online at www.tootandpuddle.com , kids can enjoy videos and interactive games and activities, as they learn more about Toot and Puddle's world and the values of friendship. Parents can also receive 20 percent off books based on the television series when they use the promotion code AMTRAK at check-out, through May 16, 2010.

"Toot and Puddle have a knack for finding adventure, whether it's riding on the back of an elephant in India or capturing butterflies in their own backyard. By teaming with Amtrak, we're hoping to encourage parents and their kids to get out and explore their world, and find out what adventure means to them," said Darren Metzger, director, marketing for National Geographic Kids Entertainment.

"Amtrak strongly believes in the power of reading and we hope to create a new generation of passengers by introducing rail travel to young people," said Debbie Varnado, director of branding and promotions for Amtrak.
Amtrak will feature sweepstakes displays and bookmarks at more than 90 stations nationwide and supply special "Toot & Puddle" themed placemats to children traveling on select long-distance trains.  Banners are located in some stations along the Northeast Corridor.

"Toot & Puddle" characters will also visit Washington's Union Station April 20 and New York's Penn Station on April 22 to greet fans, distribute free books and promote the importance of reading. Visit www.tootandpuddle.com for a complete listing of dates, locations and times.

One grand prize, consisting of a three-day, two-night trip for four to Washington, D.C., will be awarded. Five first prizes and five second prizes will also be awarded. First prize winners will receive the DVD "Toot & Puddle: I'll Be Home for Christmas"; second prize winners will receive a "Toot & Puddle" book. Applicants must be 18 years old to enter. Entries must be placed by April 30, 2010, in order to qualify. Sweepstakes is subject to official rules available at www.tootandpuddle.com.