IDOL's Kree Harrison to Serve as 2013 Santa Train Celebrity Guest

Rising country music star Kree Harrison is making a return appearance as the celebrity guest on the Santa Train. The runner-up of "American Idol" season 12 will accompany CSX, Dignity U Wear, Food City and the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce representatives on board the train for its 71st journey to bring gifts to Appalachian families on Saturday, Nov. 23.

"I'm incredibly honored and excited to be a part of the Santa Train again," Harrison said. "The first time was such an amazing opportunity to help spread the joy of Christmas to the people of this region that I can't wait to have an even greater appreciation for the experience the second time around."

Harrison first rode the Santa Train in 2001 when she was 11 years old. The 2013 "American Idol" alumna is working on her debut album and recently made an appearance on the "CMT Music Awards," in addition to her Grand Ole Opry debut in June of this year.

"It is exciting to see an up-and-coming talent like Kree return and dedicate even more of her time to the Santa Train," said Tori Kaplan, AVP corporate social responsibility for CSX. "She brought such a special touch to the Santa Train the first time, and we know she will continue the tradition of brightening the spirits of Appalachian families during the holiday season this year."

The 23-year-old Texas native has performed country music since she was 3 years old, including four appearances on Rosie O'Donnell's show "Most Talented Kids," and found comfort in music to cope with the loss of her parents at a young age.

Harrison credits her musical style to her mother and father for exposing her to musical talents like the Beatles, Patsy Cline, Merle Haggard, Otis Redding and past Santa Train celebrity guests The Judds.

About the Santa Train:

Now in its 71st year, the Santa Train runs along a 110-mile route through Appalachia, making 14 stops in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee to distribute more than 15 tons of toys to Appalachian families. The Santa Train is sponsored by CSX, Dignity U Wear, Food City and the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce.

Please visit www.teamsantatrain.org for more information. For updates about the Santa Train, visit www.facebook.com/santatrain and follow @TheSantaTrain on Twitter and the Santa Train Pinterest board at https://pinterest.com/santatrain/.

About Kree Harrison:

Kree Harrison has been singing for as long as she can remember. Growing up in Woodville, Texas, she first appeared on Rosie O'Donnell's "Most Talented Kids" show at 10 years old. For the past 13 years, Harrison has worked in Nashville writing with some of the top writers in the business, singing demos and backups for various signed artists, and performing whenever possible. Tragedy struck Harrison twice when she lost her father in a plane crash and her mother in a car accident, both by the time she was 19 years old. In 2012, she audition for "American Idol" season 12, where she wowed fans and the judges with her effortless vocals, moving song choices and calm demeanor, ultimately coming in second place in the competition. Harrison recently wrapped up the "American Idol Live" tour and is currently living in Nashville working on her debut album.

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