OCTOBER 2009

WCRA NEWS

$2 MILLION TO THE ROUNDHOUSE FROM

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT!

WCRA News, Page 2 GENERAL MEETING NOTICE The General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 1930 hours at Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby, Willingdon at Penzance. Entertainment will be by Jeff Veniot with photos of his vists to Three Valley Gap and construction / opening of the new Canada Line. ON THE COVER Pacific Great Eastern Budd RDC-3 #BC 33 has her first outing since her repaint into her original 1956 PGE paint scheme. And, her first outing (September 2, 2009) was a great one as she delivered the official party to the platform of the Mac Norris Station for the official announcement from the Government of Canada that they were investing $2 million to the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre project. (Trevor Mills photo). Full coverage on page 8. OCTOBER CALENDAR • West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k • Wednesday, September 16 through Sunday, September 20—ARM 2009 at the West

Coats Railway Heritage Park (see ARM Program Insert for details) • Saturday, September 19—Royal Hudson Squamish—North Vancouver and return tour

departs Mac Norris Station in Squamish at 0730 • Tuesday, September 29—Deadline for items to be included in the November 2009 WCRA

News • Thursday, October 1—WCRT’s Fall Circle Tour to Victoria and Seattle departs • Saturday October 16 / Sunday October 17—Mt. Cheam Lions Model Railroad Show in

Chilliwack, 1000—1600 each day • Tuesday, October 20—Tours Committee Meeting • Tuesday, October 27—WCRA General Meeting, Rainbow Creek Station, 1930 hours

The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of British Columbia railway history. Membership is open to all people with an interest in railways past and present. We are a non-profit British Columbia society, registered as a Canadian charity. Individual membership in the WCRA is $50.00 per year, family membership is $60.00. E Members (electronic newsletter, $15 savings) are $35 individual and $45 family. (Outside Canada, please remit US $) Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 25 - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee) $700 individual life / $1,200 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission (except Special Events), mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2.

WCRA News, Page 3

EDITORIAL A GIANT LEAP FORWARD, BUT STILL QUITE A DISTANCE YET TO GO Without question, August / September were months of significant progress. Suddenly, after several months of difficulties, there were some breakthroughs. BC 33 painting was completed. We were able to receive the first two coaches of our CN Super Continental train from CN. And, the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre got the major boost forward from the Federal Government that was needed to put completion into the realm of feasibility. We are on our way once again, thanks to the wonderful support we receive from our members and friends, and for the support to our major capital project. But the challenges also persist we continue to work hard to survive what has been a very difficult couple of years. The reality of a much longer than anticipated Roundhouse construction period coupled to a very difficult economic period continues to challenge us. The extended time for the construction project has impacted day to day operations at the Heritage Park for sure. But the bigger challenge is that the anticipated revenues and contribution to operations have not materialized as the new facility is still not completed and usable. Compounding the situation are reduced tourism traffic this year (and last) and much lower than usual donations to projects and operations. It is a difficult funding time and many are choosing to support the roundhouse (at the expense of other things that need support). So, the good news this past few weeks is terrific, and we once again show we can get things done, even if it is a struggle to sometimes get there. One thing to remember: while the Roundhouse project will get up and going again now, the funds directed to this project must stay there—they can only finance that specific project. So, please don’t forget all the other things we must do and pay for while that is going on. We need your continuing energy and funds for both our major capital project and our operating projects at the same time. Yes, we have made a giant leap forward, and for this we are extremely grateful. The completion of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre is now within reach, and we will get there. I can’t tell you how good it will be to open the facility, and then take a breather from building and operate the place while we get everything else back on track.

Don

ASSOCIATION NEWS FROM THE AUGUST GENERAL MEETING Chair Colin Dathan called the meeting to order at 1930K at Rainbow Creek Station, Burnaby with a quorum present of 40 members and guests: • Don Evans presented the President’s Report covering several happenings during the past

WCRA News, Page 4 month to improve things, including the arrival of the two CN coaches and the word of an impending announcement by the Federal Government on September 2 for the Roundhouse • Susan Steen updated the members on the preparations for the ARM 2009 conference. She

reported on a very successful mini rail day and members picnic, over 500 attended and many new members joined up. She offered thanks to Jeremy and Donna as well as Paul and Mary Roy for their efforts

• Colin Smith noted that construction would resume on the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre following the September 2 funding announcement

• Jim Brown noted that challenges with operating cash flow are continuing • Jim Brown and Colin Dathan talked about the special event at the 374 Pavilion for the

opening day of the new Canada Line (see page 22) . Jim noted that the Pavilion is having a very good year, but some additional volunteers are needed as we now have some gaps in the schedule.

• Dorothea made a $75 donation from her ongoing sale. • Entertainment 2010 books are now available, Jim Brown is prime contact. • Ron Anstey provided an update on the collection—painting of BC 33, continuing work on

the Alberta, 6503 ready to operate and the Troop Sleeper project. • Bill Johnston noted that the Okanagan trip date has been changed and room is still

available, the September 19 Royal Hudson trip is also selling. The September 21 Trains of British Columbia tour has been cancelled.

• Dave Emmington noted that tables are booked for the Chilliwack Lions Club show in October as well as TRAINS 2009 show in November.

• Colin Dathan hosted the raffle and welcomed guests • Entertainment was video of America’s Historic Steam Railroads WCRA TRIVIA # 249 - by Ryan D. Cruickshank What is the origin of the term “locomotive”? (for answer see Credit Lines, page 27) MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Memberships dated 08/31/2009 have now expired, and if your membership expired 06/30/2009, this will be your last issue. Please check the label on your newsletter and renew today. Remember that renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter—check page 2 for current membership rates. Is your email address current???? It is particularly important that those of you who have registered for access to the Members Only area keep your email address current in the Server. Each time a new issue is posted the Server sends a notice to the email address you supplied when you requested access. Because the undeliverable messages from a Server do not bounce back to it I have no way to be proactive.

WCRA News, Page 5 If you have changed your email address, or think the one we have is out of date because you do not receive notices, please send your current email address to Jeremy at membership@wcra.org and the server will be updated as required. (J.D.) NEW MEMBERS The West Coast Railway Association welcomes new members Kirsten Andrews & family of Squamish, Glenn Auchterlonie & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Suzanne Babuin & family of Squamish, Rick Bonneville & family of Port Coquitlam, Dian Cabral & family of Brackendale, Andy & Tami Capicik & family of Squamish, J S Carmel & family of Whistler, Susan Carmody & family of Brackendale, Mayuko Chaisson & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Bill Crozier of Vancouver, Tim Crump & family of Portland, Oregon, Heather Dagleish & family of Garibaldi Highlands, the Dolha family of Squamish, Nicole Florian & family of Squamish, James Gauthier & family of Squamish, Tim Gauthier & Kristy Watson & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Rina Girard & family of Richmond, Louise Godard & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Dustin Gowitt & family of Maple Ridge, Shelley Hansen & family of Squamish, Janell Hauzeneder & Tim Stevens & family of Squamish, Laura Johnson & family of Squamish, Sean Latimer & family of White Rock, Erik Lehto & Karin Dahim of Avesta Sweden, Craig Manship & family of Garibaldi Highlands, John Marinis & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Diane Maxwell & family of Coquitlam, Kevin McJannet & family of Squamish, Shandra Plested & family of Squamish, Lou Ann & George Rawsthorne & family of Squamish, Rajinder Reehal & family of New Westminster, Bev Rickert & family of Squamish, Devon Rutherford & family of Vancouver, Rebecca Salmon & family of Bowen Island, Steven Savich & family of Chilliwack, Rolf Schiller & family of West Vancouver, Tim & Angie Shier & family of Squamish, Yves St. Hilaire & Kaila Jarvis & family of Brackendale, Kelly Tangill & Gary Reid & family of Richmond, Darcy Wittenberg & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Joe de Franco & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Jin Jiang & family of Richmond, Gayle Swerdfeger & family of Squamish, Laura Wong & family of Burnaby, Geoffrey &Vernice Drewery of Burnaby and Ian Thompson & family of North Vancouver. We welcome back Alexander & Cindy Katramadakis & family of Garibaldi Highlands and Ben Roberts & family of Burnaby. (J.D.) MEMBER NOTES Our congratulations to Dr. Laverne Kindree of Squamish on his being awarded the Order of Canada for his more than 50 years of dedicated public service in Squamish. Dr. Kindree, now 87, has been a contributor ever since he arrived in the small community on the steamship in 1948. He was Squamish’s only physician for many years, travelled on the Pacific Great Eastern railway to many of his various physician duties in his early years, was instrumental in establishing Squamish Hospital—and more. Along the way, he and wife Norma have been WCRA members and supporters in many ways. Congratulations, Dr. Kindree!

WCRA News, Page 6 ENTERTAINMENT 2010 BOOK SALES This is an important annual fundraiser for WCRA and can be done from anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Entertainment 2010 books are now on sale, and are a great bargain as always. Price once again is just $46 per copy, and there are thousands of dollars in savings in each book. You can get yours at any WCRA meeting, at the Heritage Park, or by calling Jim Brown through the WCRA office at 604-681-4403. (J.B.) ANNUAL DINNER—The Annual Dinner and Awards Night will be November 24, 2009 at Cheers Restaurant in North Vancouver, price $35.

COLLECTION RDC-3 BC 33 DEBUTS IN ITS PGE COLOURS One of our long term goals has been to get our former Pacific Great Eastern Budd RDC BC 33 painted back into its PGE orange and green paint scheme before the ARM 2009 Conference in September. The good news is that this work is now complete and the results debuted September 2, 2009—doesn’t she look great! (see cover photo) We have several donors now on board for this project, but we need more of you….thanks to Don Greenwood, Paul & Mary Roy, Arthur Irving, Bill Marchant, Alan Milligan and Don Evans we have the first $3,900 covered—but we need another $800 to complete the job. Will you help? Please contact Don Evans at 604-988-3435 or Ron Anstey at 604-253-5510 so we can count you in and cover all the costs of this work. HELP US MOVE OUR CN SUPER CONTINENTAL TRAIN Good news on this project is that the two coaches which were held on CN tracks in Squamish pending our payment of the invoices for the moves—a total of just over $44,000—have been released to us. This was accomplished by a combination of a donation, a debenture, and a member loan and enabled us to pay the invoices due CN, releasing WCXX 3218 and 3223. But we still need your help. While we got CN paid, we have to repay the loan outstanding and then raise the $60,000 needed to move the three units of the train still in Toronto. By way of history, a gracious benefactor stepped forward and purchased five units of the former Waterloo & St. Jacobs train for us back in late 2006, however we have had no funding for its move west. The price tag for the move (with tax) is $22,000 per unit from Ottawa and $20,000 per unit from Toronto. Meanwhile storage charges also continue to pile up—we must act now as there is not only significant cost to moving them, but also to leaving them as well. We need this train and we need it here. The coaches are intended to fill out our coach seating capability when we run the Royal Hudson or other trips, and we need the seats for operating

WCRA News, Page 7 events such as Polar Express so we can have the capacity to sell more tickets and increase the contribution to our collection and facilities. The CN Super Continental is also key in our collection plan as our consist to illustrate the streamliners of the 1950’s. This is our most important collection project at this time. So—we need your help here. Some thoughts to please consider: • Donations towards the cost, of course, tax receiptable to the donor • Sponsor a coach—or an FP9A unit. This program has worked well for us and would be

very timely now, as the coaches will go into immediate use on our Royal Hudson train and with our ARM Conference operations. There are two coaches available (one has already been spoken for and will become the William & Dorothy Lahr). Would you like to have an FP9A unit carry your name of the name of a loved one? We will script a name below the cab windows (as is often done) and thus name the locomotives as well as the coaches.

• Third option—a targeted debenture would also be useful as a way to provide the funds needed to make the moves.

For more information, please contact Don Evans for further details. Come on, CN fans—what would be nicer than a classy green, black and gold CN streamliner finally making its appearance at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. Call me at 604-988-3435 or e mail president@wcra.org . PGE #2 FUNDRAISER STARTS A fundraising campaign for Pacific Great Eastern steam locomotive # 2 is getting underway. The goal is to have this classic 2-6-2, the only surviving steam engine off the PGE, cosmetically restored in time to celebrate her 100th birthday in 2010. If you would like to get on board, please contact the Heritage Park at 604-898-9336.

FUNDRAISING PRESIDENT’S REPORT – AUGUST 2009 August was a busy month as a number of activities got going, and was capped with the call from Minister James Moore that the applications for Roundhouse Funds would be successful. That will be in next month's tally—meanwhile, here’s what happened in August; Funding Asks Made • Several asks made to help cover costs for coaches move from Ottawa to Squamish • Work started to seek help to move remainder of CN consist west • Ask to VIA for in-kind donation of storage charges • To members for funds to paint BC 33

WCRA News, Page 8 Major Funding Received • $50,000 from London Drugs Foundation for the Alberta • $10,000 debenture to help move CN train • $30,000 debentures for Roundhouse • $340 General Donations • Expenses donation $6,940 • $200 to BC 33 painting Month Total $97,560 Year to Date Total $2,104,437

General purposes $479,101 WCR Endowment Fund $637,000 Roundhouse $836,679 Alberta Project $150,000 Other Significant Activities • Work to secure Federal Government funds for Roundhouse • Secured funds to cover costs to move CN coaches 3223 and 3218 from Ottawa • ARM 2009 Conference—major preparation work

CN ROUNDHOUSE & CONFERENCE CENTRE

$2 MILLION TO THE CN ROUNDHOUSE & CONFERENCE CENTRE FROM THE CANADA CULTURAL SPACES FUND!

The long hard work over the past 12 months by WCRA and many supporters paid off with the great announcement on Wednesday, September 2, 2009 that the Government of Canada would come to the table and make a $2 million investment in our CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre project. To say it was a very good day would be the understatement of the year, but as morning dawned cloudy—the skies cleared and the sun shone as Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable James Moore, came to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park personally to deliver the announcement of the good news. Events got organized at the Heritage Park around 1000, as guests began arriving and assembling in anticipation of the announcement. It was good to see a nice assortment of members, community members, board members all present—a good representation of what our organization and project are all about. The official party assembled in the lounge of the business car British Columbia in the PGE Carshop. It was the perfect place to welcome the Minister of Canadian Heritage to our site for the first time, and to prep for the ceremony to follow. At precisely 10:30, we headed through the Carshop past the Royal Hudson to our awaiting transport to the station—newly repainted Budd RDC-3 #BC-33 (cover photo). Conductor John Jellis welcomed us aboard and gave the safety spiel before we departed for the short ride to the Mac Norris Station.

WCRA News, Page 9 As we pulled into the station all were pleased to see the crowd on hand. The party disembarked from the RDC and the presentation got underway at the podium. WCRA Chair Colin Smith called the crowd to order and introduced our Member of Parliament, John Weston. John has worked hard on our behalf since the start of our work to achieve the federal funding and is to be commended for his efforts. John related some of his thoughts about the project, the work of our dedicated volunteers, and then introduced the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. Minister Moore talked about the proud heritage in Canada connected to the railways and their development of our country and communities, and how the work of the West Coast Railway Association was significant in preserving and telling that story. He then announced that the Government of Canada was pleased to help fund the major project

underway (just behind him), the construction of the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre with an investment in the amount of $2 million. The funds come from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund under the auspices of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. A cheer went up from the crowd! (photos on back cover) Mayor Greg Gardner then took the podium to express appreciation on behalf of the community of Squamish for the contribution to the project. He noted the positive and significant economic impact that the West Coast Railway Heritage Park has on the community and how the new facility would benefit many over the years to come. Last up was Don Evans, who thanked the Minister for the contribution from the Government of Canada on behalf of the members, staff and board of the West Coast Railway Association. He noted that construction would now be able to resume immediately and that while a completion date had to be re established, a finish ahead of the 2010 Winter Olympics was once again possible.

WCRA News, Page 10 The official ceremony was concluded, and the Minister talked to the media for some time before Chair Colin Smith led us on a tour into the new building. Here the enormity of the project was clearly seen as well as the spectacular setting it would provide for both Heritage preservation and improved guest experiences at the Heritage Park in the future. HELP US COMPLETE THE ROUNDHOUSE While we now have the Federal Government funding secured, we still need the final piece to complete the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. The exciting thing is that this gap is now much smaller—the completion is in sight! The CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre is our largest project to date and the most significant in terms of the future of WCRA, the operation of the Heritage Park, and the protection of our precious collection. We have attracted many new constituents to our group through this project, and we have many groups just waiting to be able to use the new facility. The CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre will transform our site forever. The new facility will be our first climate controlled top quality exhibit building, offering year round protection for our seven most precious pieces of the collection. No longer will we have to “hide” vulnerable units across the street at the MP Shops in the winter away from the enjoyment of our guests. Imagine having the fragile wood cars like the business car British Columbia inside in a year round comfortable temperature. And, with seven track stalls, this means seven more pieces of our collection get indoors from outside. Operationally, this also plays a major role for our future. The building itself will generate new funds and bring new sets of visitors to our site. So, it plays a huge marketing role in attracting groups who would not have come to see us as just a railway heritage site, but while there they will discover us—and away we go. It is also the third phase of our deliberate business plan design, and will take the operation of the Heritage Park to break even or better, thus ending the need for operating donation funding as we have needed since we started our project. More donations in the future will then be able to be directed to the collection, our core purpose. Two new programs are now being offered to close the gap of approximately $1 million to completion (after the needed federal funds): 1. New Naming Opportunities—these will name specific exhibit areas in the building as

well as the plaza out front, and suggested amounts are indicated. • Heritage Plaza (centre court in front of the building, around the turntable) -

suggested naming sponsorship amount $500,000. This will be a major plaza area and scene for many activities such as introduction of new rail restorations, outdoor

WCRA News, Page 11 concerts, vintage car shows etc. • Upper Level Viewing Deck and Gallery—this is the indoor / outdoor deck on the

upper level of the building, which will provide great views over the Heritage Plaza of the event site as well as the Mac Norris Station main track. Suggested naming sponsorship $250,000

• Special Exhibitions Gallery—This area, off the main entry lobby, will be used to exhibit special collections , art shows or photography. Exhibits will change regularly, suggested naming sponsorship $100,000

• Tracks 1 through 7—each of the seven exhibit tracks will carry a sponsor name, each track will house one of our collection’s prize pieces of rolling stock, suggested naming sponsorship $50,000 per track

Work to find these sponsors is getting underway now, if any of you have interest in such a permanent legacy or know of someone who may, please let us know. Contact Don Evans at 604-988-3435 or president@wcra.org 2. A New Roundhouse Completion Debenture Program A new series of Roundhouse Completion Debentures is now available, and we are pleased to report that $420,000 has been received / committed to date. These will operate in a similar way to our current very successful debenture program, but with a few differences:

• Interest rate will be 6% annually (a great rate given current markets) • Term of two years • Minimum amount $10,000 • Complimentary membership in WCRA for the term • New debentures only (current debentures not to be converted as we need the new

funds to get the construction done) • Offering to be closed once needed funds are achieved

We still need you in order to finish the job before the Olympics! Investments in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre project by you or your company, or anyone you might know who would be interested to help, are needed immediately. Please contact Don Evans at 604-988-3435 or Colin Smith at 604-649-8464 if you can help us with this urgent need

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS 2009 TOURS ALMOST DONE Here is an outline of the remaining tours for the coming year. We have added in the planned Royal Hudson trip for Saturday, September 19 as well as a new fall circle tour to Seattle in October. Detailed itineraries with photos are available for all tours by calling 604-524-1011 or e-mail to tours@wcra.org

WCRA News, Page 12 Remember that our tours operations are now operating out of the WCRA’s office at 4529A Hastings St. in Burnaby. This has enhanced our office operations with regular phone answering now for both tours and WCRA Administrative functions, call and say hello to Aileen de la Torre—and book some great rail travel while you are at it. (B.J.) Fall Circle Tour to Victoria and Seattle—departs Thursday, October 1 This is a repeat of our successful operation of this tour in the Spring of 2009. Travel by motorcoach, the E & N Dayliner, ferry and Amtrak Cascades on this enjoyable excursion through the Pacific Northwest. • Thursday, October 1—depart Vancouver by motorcoach and travel on the BC Ferries 1230

sailing to Nanaimo. Transfer to the E & N station and ride VIA’s Malahat Dayliner from Nanaimo to Victoria. Stay at the Queen Victoria Hotel

• Friday, October 2—breakfast at the hotel is included, enjoy Victoria for most of the day, catch the Victoria Clipper 1700 sailing to Seattle.

• Saturday, October 3—a free day to enjoy Seattle—shop. Sightsee or whatever you wish in this great west coast US city

• Sunday, October 4—Transfer to King St. Station and return to Vancouver aboard the Amtrak Cascades train departing at 0745, arriving back in Vancouver about 1130.

Fares: $529 per person (double occ.), $499 BC Senior PLEASE NOTE: All tours of 4 days or more feature free pickups at your home or hotel (subject to some minor conditions.) Ask for details particular to your location. SELF GUIDED TOURS We also offer the following arranged tours, which you can take advantage of at any time on a self guided basis…. MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR - Daily except Saturday - all year – 2 days Depart from Pacific Central Station at a time of your choosing aboard Pacific Coach Lines scheduled service to Victoria. We supply vouchers to take you to the Queen Victoria Hotel—a few steps from the bus depot. You are on your own for dinner. Breakfast is served at 7:00AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the VIA Rail station at 7:30 AM. Board the train for an 8:00 AM departure to Qualicum Beach where it arrives before noon. Enjoy this quaint town with its interesting beaches and restaurants. After lunch (on your own) we ask you to board the southbound train at 2:00 PM and get off at Nanaimo at about 3:00 PM. A waiting, pre-booked taxi takes you to Nanaimo’s bus depot for the 4:30 PM departure of Greyhound’s scheduled service to Vancouver. Dinner on the ferry is available. Arrive at Pacific Central Station at 7:15 PM. FARES: $224; Children 2-11 $186; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $186. (Otherwise, $224). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST extra. Low season and budget hotel bookings save you more.

WCRA News, Page 13 THE GREAT PLAINS and ROCKIES by TWO NAME TRAINS — 6 days, all year. A unique chance to travel on two great “name” trains to visit the centre of the North American Continent from the comfort of your private sleeping compartments, dining cars, lounges and scenic domes. Enjoy the Canadian Rockies and the vast Prairies to Winnipeg then America’s Northern States and Mountain Parks. Departures: Tuesdays, Fridays & Sundays - from Vancouver Day 1: Check in at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station to board The Canadian eastbound through Vancouver’s eastern suburbs and the lower Fraser Valley. Take dinner in the diner and retire for the night in your choice of sleeping accommodation. Day 2: Before breakfast you are in the heart of the Rockies. Stop in Jasper for a break off the train. Re-board the train and you are on your way out of the mountains and into Alberta’s verdant foothills. After a stop in Edmonton you are on your way east across the prairies crossing Saskatchewan overnight in your comfortable bed. Day 3: By breakfast time you are in Manitoba and late in the morning arrive in Winnipeg. After a transfer to a beautiful old railway hotel you have the afternoon free to visit local sights. Day 4: Breakfast is available in the dining room of your hotel before you check out and take a taxi for the short ride to the Greyhound depot. Here you board a modern motorcoach for Minneapolis, Minnesota U.S.A. (passport required.) Once there you transfer to the Amtrak station across the mighty Mississippi River to neighbouring St. Paul and board The Empire Builder. Once aboard, settle into your sleeping room and start of your westbound trip. Day 5: Breakfast is available in the dining car as your train heads west across sparsely populated North Dakota. You are in Montana by noon and by dinnertime are skirting the Rockies’ famous Glacier National Park. Day 6: You can expect arrival in Seattle mid-morning. Our Amtrak connecting Thruway motorcoach leaves at 1:15 PM for Surrey, Richmond and Vancouver arriving back at Pacific Central Station, the starting point, at 5 PM. FARE: The 6-Day Tour, based on shared accommodation. From Cdn $1295 per person. Single fares start at Cdn $1495. Price depends on age of guests, number traveling together, type of sleeping accommodation on the trains, date of booking, date of travel, and US$ exchange rate. Our price will be cheaper than doing this on your own. Add a night in Seattle and take the morning “Cascades” train service to Vancouver for an extra $99 per person including your hotel. TWO GREAT CITIES BY THREE FAMOUS NAME TRAINS - Any Sunday, Tuesday or Friday – all year This is a unique chance to enjoy travel on three great name trains from the comfort of your own sleeping car, dining car and lounges, first to Toronto on The Canadian then on the Lake Shore Limited, and from Chicago on The Empire Builder. You take the 4-day and 4-night trip to Toronto on VIA Rail’s flagship train and spend a day or two in Canada’s largest metropolis.

WCRA News, Page 14 A scheduled motorcoach from Toronto to Syracuse NY’s Amtrak station at noon will give you plenty of time to catch the overnight Lake Shore Limited train for Chicago. Spend a day or two here or transfer the same day to the Empire Builder for its westbound journey across the plains and Rockies of the northern states. It arrives in Seattle 3 days later where you transfer back to Vancouver or overnight and take the morning Cascades train service back to Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station. This tour can be run in reverse if desired. Phone the tours office for a more detailed itinerary. TOTAL FARE: From only Cdn $1,575 per person including train sleepers and a hotel night. Note: Fare depends on number and ages of guests travelling together, type of sleeping accommodation booked, date of booking, number of hotel nights used, date of travel, etc. Our fare is guaranteed to be lower than you booking this for yourself. Early booking is essential to guarantee the type of sleeper you want and to take advantage of early booking discounts on both Amtrak and VIA Rail. Apart from the tours shown in these pages please remember that our tours office is available weekdays to book independent trips. For example we issue tickets for VIA Rail Canada, Amtrak, the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad and the Alaska Railroad as full-service agents for those lines. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations 2009 tours are now available; call for information and book with us. We also have the 2009 Trafalgar Tours brochures ready to send. They include the following destinations: Europe & Britain, Australia & New Zealand, USA & Canada, and River Cruises. We also combine air, coach, ferry and cruise ships with rail services to customize itineraries throughout the USA and Canada. Flying east or south? Let us book you on WestJet, our preferred air carrier. For trips of 4 days or more we offer free home pickups and drop-offs in the Vancouver area. West Coast Rail Tours travel agency has IATA status so we can handle all your bookings for air travel as well as cruises, motorcoaches, hotel accommodations, ferries and — our specialty - rail. We ask you to choose us as your travel agent, as all of our tours serve as fundraisers for WCRA projects. Contact the tours office toll free at 1-800-722-1233, or locally at 604-524-1011. Better yet e-mail us at tours@wcra.org (B.J.)

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson TIE REPLACEMENT IMPROVES TRACK OPERATIONS A section of weak ties under a switch used every time a train crossed from the Heritage Park to the Motive Power shops, or interchanged between CN and WCRA tracks has been replaced.

West Coast Rail Tours - The “Rail” Way To Go

WCRA News, Page 15 Thanks to Bob Denshaw and crew and Dave Thethi, the work was done in mid August. HERITAGE PARK REPORT August was busy in many ways, sprucing the site up in anticipation of the ARM Conference in September, readying ourselves for the very successful Mini-Rail weekend on August 23…just a great turn out with steam on both the mini-rail and the garden railway. This was a truly great financial success as well… at the end of the day, we had sold over $900. in memberships…making August one of the best months ever for membership sales. The total number of visitors for the Mini-Rail Day were 500 with approximately 65 members in attendance for the picnic. Our thanks again to the many friends who took the time and effort to bring their wonderful trains to us – everyone was very appreciative of having the opportunity to ride and see all the unique pieces, including the Steam Donkey which Trevor Mills has been operating for our events. Thanks also to the many volunteers who worked so hard to provide guests and members a great time…fabulous food courtesy of Donna Simon and Mary Roy who again know the way to everyone’s heart. The 6502 Crane Tender is getting some love and care by Keith Magee and Chris Forget, the maintenance of way car is getting a face-lift and a new deck thanks to these two incredible volunteers. Some of you will notice that the white container that was sitting by the mini-rail shed has now been relocated to the other side of the Car Shop – this give us some extra room and is providing a tidier appearance to this area, seen as visitors enter the Park. We said goodbye to our wonderful summer staff, Kelly, Lilian and Vasti – we wish them all well and thank them for their hard work and for truly providing visitors with the best experience possible. Kelly Ebers now goes back to her home in Toronto to finish her course in communications, Lilian Avis is relocating to Richmond where she will be starting to train as a nurse; and Vasti who has been with us for a couple of years at the 374 Pavilion, will be completing her education….best wishes to all from West Coast Railway Association. (S.S.) AHEAD FOR THE PARK Halloween is almost upon us and great plans have been made to once again provide our guests with a great event…including, and back by popular demand, our scary rail car…. Also, just ahead is the Christmas season and Polar Express is scheduled for December 5

WCRA News, Page 16 & 6 – this will be even more wonderful than last year, with the addition of the two Super Continental coaches which recently arrived from back east…this year, there will be a 1st Class ticket available, which will include a souvenir mug and free photo…more on this soon, but plan to add this great event to your list of great Christmas traditions. (S.S.)

FEATURE ARTICLES FROM WCRA NEWS - SEPT. 1979 - Part 2 -by Craig McDowall WCRA’s August meeting notes of interest:

A Heritage Committee was formed and our delegate to the Heritage Canada meeting will be selected from this committee. On the committee are Craig McDowall, rockin’ Ronny Pajala, ‘Mr. Brown Corduroy’ Bob Gaevert, Jim McPherson and to be confirmed (once contacted) Fritz Lehman (MCM note: remember Fritz? - anyone know if he is still around?). Grant Ferguson noted that included in the previous estimated $130k to restore our locomotive #16 (see August newsletter) is $10k worth of missing parts. Re: our letter to CPR to Omar Lavallee re: acquisition of a car, we received his response outlining three necessary conditions when applying: -location to place the car -status as a Registered Non-Profit organization -stipulation whether we are requesting as a donation or purchase We now have “b” in place which obviously affects “c” . . so making progress. B.C. Hydro has been sent a letter re. prospects of a potential fan trip on their line. Skagit & Lake Whatcom Trip A warm sun shone on the turnout of 12 WCRA ‘keeners’ on our full day on two Washington ‘shorties’: the Skagit River and Lake Whatcom railroads. The day started with an early morning departure on the drive to Sedro Wooley and en route caught the Pacific International SB with a Superliner consist. Upon arrival in Sedro Wooley, we inspected our train with the 2-6-2 Baldwin #6 and its three vintage 1947 ex Milwaukee coaches. The locomotive is the former Seattle City Light, built new for them in 1928, and is leased to Skagit River. With only 44 inch drivers, it is not built for speed but rolled along nicely at 25 to 30mph, which is perfect for the BN branch line to Concrete, WA. Train crews are provided from BN’s active roster and one of the trainmen called from Auburn that morning had no idea of his assignment until he arrived and saw all the people around the train! We departed at 09:00 hours and found the line to be very straight as the train rolled through

WCRA News, Page 17 communities like Lyman, Hamilton, Birdsview and Grassmere en route to Concrete - a 24 mile trip. The highlight in terms of scenery was over the last 3 miles, where the train runs along the edge of a hill, with the highway and river some distance below. Several tight curves are negotiated before dropping downgrade into Concrete. By some strange co-incidence, our tour organizer Bob Hunter had us arrive on the same day as Concrete’s 2nd Annual “Good Old Days” Parade and Celebration. (MCM note: I shot film of this excursion and plan to convert it to video over the winter and show it at a future meeting . . .complete with shots of us guys 30 years ago!!). The first hint we had of the special festivities was the train stopping in Birdsview to pick up Country & Western singer Billy Wyatt (who?), who entertained us on the train (with Rockin’ Ronny singing back up vocals!). Then we stopped one mile out of Concrete to decorate #6 with U.S flags and rolled into Concrete at 10:25 with whistle blowing. Normal return trip was delayed so everyone on board could enjoy the parade (and a cold one in one of the historical bars on Main Street). We departed at 11:45 hours, with the locomotive running tender first (no wye in Concrete), arriving back at Sedro Wooley at 12:50 hours. We headed over to Skagit Station for a quick lunch in one of their coaches - the Cascade Pass - a Pullman coach built in 1929 for Union Pacific as the “Pelham”. Both the food and surroundings were excellent. To round out the day, we headed north up to Lake Whatcom for a ride behind the Culp brothers 0-6-0 #1070. This loco was built by Alco in 1908 for the Northern Pacific. For this trip, she pulled two ex NP coaches, formerly part of the consist of the NP passenger train the “Mainstreeter”. These two coaches were retired in 1964. The trip from Park to Wickersham and return rounded out a great day. Thanks to Bobby H. for putting together a most enjoyable trip! WCRA AMTRAK Excursion A few WCRA members and assorted friends, wives and girlfriends (didn’t appear that any member had both with him!) travelled Amtrak’s #793/794 Pacific International on June 28th for a day run to Seattle. The 3 coach consist included an Amcoach, Amcafe & a second Amcoach with F40PH #213 on the point. The train was fairly full after picking up passengers in New Westminster and completely full by the time it departed Bellingham with a passenger count well over 200. The trip was more interesting than normal as member Michael Bergman (from Seattle) pointing out interesting rail side locations. At several points south of Bellingham, the interurban line remains were quite visible on collapsing trestles above low tide. Upon arrival at Seattle, we had a brief tour of the Amtrak coach yard. A mix of Amfleet and conventional equipment with the latter being the consist for the about-to-depart SB “Coast

WCRA News, Page 18 Starlight” with 2 SDP40F diesels on the point and 17 cars (including 3 dome cars!) . Later, the Mount Rainier arrived from Portland with 3 Superliners behind #217. These new Superliner cars are most impressive with (obvious) entry on the lower of two levels with the stairwell to the upper level in the middle of the coach. The interiors are nicely appointed with carpeted floors and lower walls. The lower level has the washrooms at one end with the opposite end finished in a variety of ways, depending on the coach configuration - either a wall to wall bedroom, cafe, etc. Passage between coaches is only on the upper level and thus consists cannot mix Superliners with conventional equipment. Some members rented a car and did a Seattle/Tacoma area tour. The first and most depressing stop was the Milwaukee yard. The Tacoma shop was very rundown, with many damaged and some burnt diesels stored unrepaired including switchers to a U36C. There is no remaining evidence of the former electrification. Looking at the condition of the trackwork, you couldn’t move anything at more than walking speed. Milwaukee’s future in Washington state looks very bleak. The group then travelled to Auburn and the BN yard where very little was moving but many locos idling, including SW 1500’s, GP7’s, GP9’s, F9’s, and a couple of SD45’s. Then on to UP in Seattle. Both the UP and BN yards and motive power were well kept. The rest of the gang went to the “Iron Horse” for lunch; located one block from King Street Station. Its sandwiches and burgers are named by passenger train nom de plumes - eg: El Capitan etc. To add to the railroad atmosphere, your meal is delivered by a model train! A continuous show of railroad slides completes the train decor. The NB Pacific International departed Seattle at 19:30 and with both northbound coaches full - in fact standing room only from Seattle - so folks were sitting in the Amcafe car! Empty seats didn’t appear until after our departure from Bellingham. As mentioned in last month’s newsletter, the PI will continue to operate. The trip itself is very scenic with much of it along Puget Sound. And the Superliner coaches make it that much more enjoyable! The Chief’s Last Ride The nation was saddened on the morning of August 16th when a great Canadian died in Ottawa: John Diefenbaker. His body was placed in state at Capitol Hill over a three day period with thousands of people filing past his coffin. Plans were quickly implemented to take him home to his beloved Saskatchewan by a Special Train. This was most fitting as he loved to campaign by train. His ‘whistle stop’ campaigns were one of his trademarks during each election campaign, starting with his first in 1957 when he upset the Liberals to become Prime Minister. Other rail campaign trips took place during

WCRA News, Page 19 the 1958, 1963 & 1965 elections. His last trip was to become his most popular. At 14:15 on Sunday, his coffin was closed and transported to the Ottawa station where it was placed in a specially prepared VIA baggage car - #9601. The train pulled out at 18:00 hours and was soon rolling across Ontario behind a VIA FP-9 and two CP Rail Geeps. Behind the baggage car was a stainless steel sleeper with a maroon band along the window line (as Mrs. Diefenbaker accompanied her husband back to his resting place). Six VIA passenger cars completed the trainset for the press and assorted party dignitaries. As the train pulled into Sudbury just before midnight, a crowd of over 2,000 had come to pay their respects. The next stop was Winnipeg, where the train would leave the CP mainline and travel on CN northwest to Prince Albert. When the train arrived in Winnipeg on Monday night, over 6,000 people were at the station! Power was changed and at noon on Tuesday, CN FP-9 #9154 and a sister unit together with a steam generator car departed the station to pull the consist to Saskatoon and on to Prince Albert. Upon arrival in PA, the coffin was re-opened as thousands were present trackside, since this was his home riding. On Wednesday morning, the Funeral Train departed south to Saskatoon for burial. (MCM note: I remember vividly the TV coverage of his trip home - even in the middle of nowhere, folks were lined trackside as the train would speed by - quite the testament to one of Canada’s best loved politicians). CANADA LINE OPENS FOR SERVICE—DAY ONE - by Jeff Veniot Here's my adventure, and notes, on Day One, Monday August 17th, 2009 (and three days later) of the new Canada Line rapid transit system. Translink has decided it's better not to try and explain the differences between the SkyTrain and the Canada Line - easier just to call everything SkyTrain, but they will try to be more clear with where the three lines run (the Expo, Millennium and Canada Lines)... I also found out that Translink and Canada Line officials wanted to open the new line at the beginning of August (four months ahead of schedule), but the elevator at the Marine Drive Station wasn't ready and neither was all the work on the interior of the Olympic Village Station. Not to mention that the new crosswalk and set of traffic lights outside of this station, on 6th Ave, weren't ready till about noon on opening day. Whew ! Talk about cutting it close (this was courtesy of the C of V streets department)... All of the Cambie Bridge 'on and off' ramps at the south end are now also open (but 2nd Ave from Cambie to Main is still a single lane - more street works; suggest you stay away till after the middle of September)... I went out to the YVR (Vancouver International Airport) Station before 10 am to see if I could watch the ribbon cutting...40-year Transit Driver Angus McIntyre was there as well,

WCRA News, Page 20 but we had no luck. The special train was 203 / 103 with 203 in the lead. A second train of dignitaries followed, being 206 / 106. The line up for the first free passenger train rides started at YVR at 11:30 am. I was about 15th in line, but managed to get into the front of car 206 (leading) for the ride to Waterfront Station. (Later I heard the line up went well into the terminal. Be sure to see the new eating area and observation deck within the newly renovated YVR domestic building.) The gates opened at 1 pm with the train leaving the airport at 1:03 pm, arriving at 1:28 pm - 25 minutes. Nice smooth ride, with no problems. And we arrived one minute sooner than the advertised time of 26 minutes. Everybody had a good laugh as we pulled into Sea Island and Templeton Stations, the platforms were pretty much empty...only a handful of people waiting to board. Bridgeport was packed, as were all the other stations heading north (and south). Fabulous view of the mountains and Fraser River as we crossed into Vancouver on the new North Arm Bridge. We could even see pedestrians and cyclists using the new walkway on the west side of the crossing. I got off at Waterfront to help some tourists who rode in with me (yes, even on the first train 'out-of-towners' were with us), and that's when I saw the line up of people waiting to board. It went from within the station, up the staircase to the Granville Square plaza, snaked all over the entire plaza, went up Granville by the Sinclair Centre to Hastings, east on Hastings to Seymour, and down Seymour back towards Cordova. Media reports said it was a two (or more) hour wait...I've seen some long line ups for various things over the years, especially at Expo 86, but that was pretty much the longest. Walked up to Sears, knowing I wouldn't be able to get on there either, but how long was that line? From the station entrance at Granville and Georgia, it went south on Granville, by the store, to Robson, along Robson and I lost sight of it as it rounded the corner onto to Howe Street. At Yaletown the folks said the line up was only about 45 minutes in length. It went down about half a block along Mainland Street. Rode an Aquabus Ferry over False Creek and found no line ups at the Olympic Village Station. Ever. The entire day said the staff... Got back on the train, this time heading to Richmond - Brighouse, at the Richmond Centre Mall. PA announcements told us that the train was going out of service there and to please leave. So I got off only to find that the staff didn't clear the train. So I got back on and rode it down to the Broadway - City Hall Station and found only a 15 to 20 minute line. Went home from there and rode the train again three days later (Thurs Aug 20th) after 7:30 pm for about 45 minutes, to and from downtown, checking out all the stations, etc. Every train had a standing room only crowd and every train in both directions had folks with luggage. (Ed. note—I have used the Canada Line now three times for YVR transport and it works well, even

WCRA News, Page 21 with a SeaBus connection to start / end) As I suspected, this line is going to be well used, and not just by folks going to and from the airport. Translink said at least 80,000 folks took a trip on the first day, over the eight free hours. At least 70,000 rode the following day, over it's 21 hours of regular operation. They are hoping for 100,000 a day within a few years. I don't think they'll be waiting more than a few months. The 98 B Line buses were equally deserted as the new line was crowded. There is no doubt that Canada Lines longer, wider cars with their smoother (and quieter) starts and stops are already a hit with many regular (and non-regular) transit riders. An odd thing I've noticed is that the train seems to be moving a little slower, but when I check my watch, man did we get here quick. From Waterfront to Olympic Village Station it took me all of 5 minutes. About six or seven minutes later and I was at the Oakridge Mall. So it might seem that it's not rolling as fast, but it is. While in the underground portion there is cell phone coverage, even while travelling under False Creek. Give it a spin, but do remember to pay for the two-zone fare between Vancouver and Richmond (for adults, that's $3.75 - no extra airport surcharge of about $2 till sometime in 2010). The stations all seem to be pretty nice as well. Public art will soon be placed and will rotate from station to station.

The line is 19 kms long with 16 stations. 9 are in Vancouver, 8 of them are underground, with the Marine Drive Station being above ground. Of the 7 stations in Richmond, 5 are above ground and two are at grade level. When you exit the train at YVR, if you turn to the right you can head into the International Terminal Building. Turn to the left and you'll be heading into the north end of the domestic building, passing by Susan Point's work of art, a beautifully carved 'owl.' Both walkways are covered. Back on opening day, while waiting for the gates to open, the media train returned and I was able to snap the enclosed photo of long-time transit operator and transit booster, Vic Sharman. (photo) See you on the rails, or the buses.

WCRA News, Page 22 LOCOMOTIVE 374 ENJOYS A DAY IN THE SUN - by Bill Johnston On a very historic day for Vancouver’s transportation system, (the opening of the Canada Line service to Richmond and YVR), it was appropriate that locomotive 374 also be recognized. So

on August 17th the historic locomotive was pulled out on to the Roundhouse Community Centre’s Turntable Plaza to be viewed by the hundreds of people in the area. The steam generator was fired up and there she sat as if waiting to chug away to an unknown destination. Most visitors had ridden, or were about to queue up at the nearby Yaletown - Roundhouse Canada Line station for a free ride on the

new line. WCRA volunteers were on hand to welcome over 600 guests who crawled into the locomotive’s cab blowing the whistle and ringing the bell. Another 350 or so visited our exhibits in the pavilion and enjoyed the brilliant sunshine and ambience of the day. Fuse Restaurant had food and drink available and our on-site gift shop enjoyed record sales. The locomotive was winched out to the Turntable Plaza in the morning and returned on its 30 minute journey at 1600K. The message to most was clear that on this day Vancouver’s first train was on display only a few metres above Vancouver’s newest trains running below us in a tunnel under False Creek - on their way to

WCRA News, Page 23 Richmond and the airport. It was good to see old friends and 374 supporters drop by to honour the occasion. In addition to Vasti, our full-time summer custodian, we must thank volunteers Colin Dathan, Len Brown and Thomas Pruden for their assistance in moving the locomotive in and out of the Pavilion. Also on hand to welcome the hundreds of guests were Ed and Cathy Harkness, John and Fay Lighthall, Elaine Pruden and Bill Johnston. We would also like to thank Dave Engleman of Rocky Mountain Production Services who performed the electrical work for the 374 steam boiler. What better way can there be to welcome Vancouver’s newest trains while recognizing the vintage version? From Karen Peterson [kpeterson@canadaline.ca] A very good friend of mine, Pat (Pasquale) Magnolo Sr. ( may he rest in peace), used to volunteer with you, and another ex-boyfriend's father and grandfather were involved with the very first steam engines in this country - the very Scottish MacPhee's. Strikes me that one of the engines they worked with was green? does that sound right? Further - I worked at Expo 86 and looked at the train every day. It holds a special place in my heart as well—so it seemed very fitting to me that this magnificent beast be pulled out to say hello to the new train and be honored itself for being here first! Forging the way for many. Thank you for bringing her out, for writing the article and for making the day better for all those who came by. Sincere regards, Karen.

374 PAVILION The number of visitors recorded for August 2009 was 3,531, as compared to August 2008 with 1,388, a large increase over previous year. Good weather and increased staffing as well as the special Canada Line opening event contributed to the high visitor count for August. To date, the visitor count at 14,817 is running at 46% above last year. With the 374 Pavilion being fully staffed 7 days a week there has been a marked increased in tour buses stopping on a regular schedule. An increase in cruise ship passengers is also noted. In June a gift sales kiosk was installed at the 374 Pavilion. This has increased gift sales and also provides a secure lock up for inventory. New signage for the Roundhouse Community Centre Due to the new Roundhouse Canada Line station (Pacific Blvd. & Davie Street corner) there is a need to improve the Roundhouse signage. There is also a need to improve signage to direct visitors to the main entrance. A project named “Roundhouse signage and way finding project” has been selected to address these issues. An outside consulting company has been hired by the Roundhouse Community Centre to lead this project

WCRA News, Page 24 The key objectives for the Roundhouse signage and way finding project are to create in new signage the ROUNDHOUSE name bold and easy to read facing the surrounding city streets (Pacific Blvd. & Davie Street corner), and to improve directional signage for entrance and current activities. Volunteers Required for the 374 Pavilion Please consider becoming a volunteer at the 374 Pavilion. Volunteers are the backbone of the 374 Pavilion. We would not be able to open and present the 374 pavilion without the help of our caring and enthusiastic volunteers. As volunteers you will have the opportunity to greet guests who come from all over the world to see the CPR 374 engine. Duties include: opening, closing the building and most important of all presenting the historical background of the 374 to visitors. Last year over 21,000 visitors came to the “374” and only through the efforts and dedication of our volunteer group were we able to accommodate them. We offer free parking and a very flexible schedule, either one day a week or two days a month whichever works best for you. If you are interested in assisting us and greeting a wide range of visitors please contact Jim Brown at 604-681-4403 or 604-985-7249 or e-mail at info@wcra.org We are pleased to report that Bernie Tully has advised he will be able to return as a Pavilion volunteer and Ed and Cathy Harkness have stepped up for a second day each week while John Lighthall recovers from his knee surgery. We need help for Fridays. (J.B.)

RAILWAY NEWS

AMTRAK CASCADES UPDATES New trains 516 / 513 in and out of Vancouver are now in operation, with the first arriving northbound on August 19 and the first southbound from Vancouver on August 20. Talgo equipment is on the trains, which have both Bistro and Dining cars in the consist. The Vancouver end of the schedule sees morning departure southbound at 0640 (station opens at 0530 for Customs pre-clearance) and arrival in the evening northbound at 2245. (B.M.) Talgo equipment is also back running to Vancouver again on trains 510 / 51, ending two years of SuperLiner equipment on this schedule. Here are notes from the final week of Superliner equipment on trains Amtrak Cascades trains 510-517.

WCRA News, Page 25 Friday, July 24 - Amtrak 465 F59PHI, 31017 coach/baggage, 33023 sightseer lounge, 34138 coach Sat., July 25—as above but with 37014 added on tail end. This was used as an overflow seating car, not for meal service. Booth tables were assigned to family groups as the train was overbooked due to the expectation that the Talgo train would be back in service. Sun-Tue, Fri July 26-28, 31—F59PHI 465 , 37014 - on for same reason as above, 34138 coach, 33023 Sightseer Lounge, 31017 coach baggage Sat., Aug. 01— Genesis locomotive #78, 37014 still on due to reservation system having Talgo capacity in it, 34138, 33023, 31017 Sun. Aug. 02 - Last of the Super liners: as on August 1 but without the 37014 Monday, Aug. 3 - Talgo returns after a 2 year absence! Genesis locomotive #78 with the "Mt. Adams" Talgo set—7903 power car, 7454 business class, 7554 business class w/wheelchair lift, 7804 dining car (no waiter service, passengers get tray meals from bistro car), 7303 bistro car, 7504 disabled access coach w/wheelchair lift, 7424 coach, 7423 coach, 7422 coach. 7421 coach, 7420 coach, 7102 baggage, 90253 cab/control unit Tuesday, Aug. 4 - same consist as August 3 Friday, Aug. 7 - same set but with F59PHI #467 replacing 78 (J.M.) CNR TRANSCON ROUTES THROUGH USA With the acquisition of the EJ&E recently completed, CN has moved a Toronto-Vancouver (MacMillan Yard - Thornton Yard) train to a USA routing. Train 301 now leaves Toronto daily and heads southwest to Sarnia and thence on the GTW route towards Chicago near where it takes up the EJ&E routing around Chicago and its famous railway congestion, eventually making its way onto former WC trackage, thence the former DW&P to Canada. Train 302 runs the same route in reverse. While it would appear that such a southerly detour would seriously slow down the transcontinental trip, in fact the Toronto to Winnipeg transit times are only 11 hours longer via the USA route. The first westbound train on the new route left Toronto June 29, and the first eastbound left Thornton Yard on June 30. The westbound schedule calls for a trip of 118 hours,

WCRA News, Page 26 and eastbound for 113:39. The WCRA's two recently arrived coaches took the 20th westbound train over this route "in bond" through the states. Performance over the new route has been good with most trains arriving with only minor delays or none at all. Although not known for certain, it is this reporter's suspicion that the new routing of this train was made to reduce congestion in northwestern Ontario where too many oversiding length trains are constantly facing time consuming meets where one train has to leave half of its consist in one siding, sprint to the next with the other half, then reverse to pick up its tail end after the meet. (J.M.) MOTIVE POWER NOTES A rare sight and sound in 2009 as train 354 departed Thornton with a trio of SD40-2’s—#5284 / 5354 / 5370…...Train 354 of August 22 had power of CN 8836 / BCOL 4649 / CN 2309 / IC 1003…….BC Rail units get around—Dash8-40CM #4615 was on a Jacksonville to Memphis train September 4 in the company of CN 2281 and GTW 5824. (J.M.)

CHANGES COMING FOR 2010 Rocky Mountaineer’s new 2010 brochure is out, and in it one can find considerable changes coming for next year. Among them will be changes in departure days from both ends of the core lines (Vancouver / Jasper / Calgary-Banff) with trains “following” each other instead of “opposed” to each other.) This results in a more level utilization of Kamloops accommodations as there will now be a Rocky Mountaineer train in that city six days a week instead of the current two trains three days a week. There will be other changes for 2010, so stay tuned and keep an eye for announcements.

OTHER NEWS DMU’S ARE BACK The demise of Colorado Railcar hasn’t spelled the end for their Diesel Multiple Unit designs, these have been picked up by US Railcar of Ohio and are now on the market again for new commuter equipment.

WCRA News, Page 27 CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 48 Issue 10 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon Contributors: J.B. Jim Brown J.D. Jeremy Davy B.J. Bill Johnston B.M. Bill Marchant J.M. Jim McPherson S.S. Susan Steen

Send contributions to the WCRA PO Box, direct to the editor at #28 - 2133 St. Georges Ave., North Vancouver, B.C. V7L 3K5, on the Internet to <newsletter@wcra.org>, phone news to

(604)988-3435(res) or fax to (604) 986-7660. Check us out on the Internet at <www.wcra.org>

Contact us: Tours 604-524-1011 / 800-722-1233 Heritage Park 604-898-9336 Office 604-681-4403 BACK COVER From the September 2, 2009 event—Don Evans thanks the Honourable James Moore for the announcement of the $2 million contribution to the Roundhouse (top), Chair Colin Smith and MP John Weston as he unfurls his Squamish banner (lower right), Minister and party talk to the media on the Roundhouse's upper gallery and viewing deck (lower left). (Nathan Pinfield photos) TRIVIA ANSWER The word “locomotive” originates from the Latin “loco” (from a place), and a combination of “locus” (place) and medieval Latin “motives” (causing motion) and is a shortened version of the original “locomotive engine”. .

Printing and postage aided by funds from a Direct Access Gaming Grant, BC Gaming Comm.

Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 48 Issue 10 Canada Post, Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40007853