Friends of Locomotive #35, Inc. announced that they are now operating as the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum, with a provisional charter under the New York State Department of Education section 223, which took effect July 26, 2006.

This places the organization under the New York State Department of Education exclusively for educational purposes. The organization continues its tax exemption under section 501c3 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

"This is something we have been striving for," said Ben Jankowski, acting Chairman of the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum. "The name Friends of Locomotive #35 served us well for many years. Our new identity communicates what we are trying to achieve as a museum for the public, not only in Oyster Bay, but for Nassau County and the New York area too. "

Under the provisional charter, the purpose for which the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum was formed include:

• Establishment of a railroad educational museum.

• Preserve, educate, and communicate to the general public the historical experience of Long Island's rail transportation history through means of historic artifacts and buildings, either in working or static condition.

• Education in the form of work programs to gain experience in renewing buildings and rolling stock, research and intern credit, or college level research in various disciplines.

Mr. Jankowski said all assets of the previous organization have been incorporated into the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum. "All of our programs will continue to go forward as before," Mr. Jankowski added. Memberships, capital programs/fundraising all have been carried over. Those interested in becoming new members can visit their website at www.lirr35.org, or write to P.O. Box 335, Oyster Bay, NY 11771.

Oyster Bay is growing by leaps and bounds. A great deal is in the works as the Western Waterfront plan evolves as planned and the Eastern Waterfront plan is about to begin under the town's soon to be announced advisory committee. This is really the time to become involved in the important process that will keep Oyster Bay on track.

- DFK