february 2012 news - west coast railway association · 2018. 11. 16. · february 2012february 2012...

FEBRUARY 2012FEBRUARY 2012FEBRUARY 2012FEBRUARY 2012

WCRA NEWS

HERITAGE PARK DRAWS

48,735 GUESTS IN 2011!

BCER 960 PROJECT

RECEIVES MAJOR GIFT

WCRA News, WCRA News, Page 2WCRA News, Page 2WCRA News, Page 2

GENERAL MEETING NOTICE The January General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at Rianbow Creek Station in Burnaby, starting at 1930 hours. Entertainment will be by Don Evans, featuring the ARM 2011 Conference in Chattanooga. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE Due notice is given that the Annual General Meeting of the West Coast Railway Association will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 1930 hours at Rainbow Creek Station, Willingdon and Penzance, in Burnaby. ON THE COVER WCRA’s Polar Express 2011 cruises through the Squamish estuary on one of its trips December 3, 2011. Caboose BCOL 1859 carries the drumhead! For story see page 12.. (photo by member of volunteer crew) FEBRUARY CALENDAR • West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1600k • Saturday, February 11—Deadline for items for the March 2012 WCRA News • Sunday, February 12—Squamish Winter Farmers Market, CN Roundhouse & Conference

centre, 1000 to 1500k. • Tuesday, February 21—Tours Committee meets, call 604-524-1011 for details • Sunday, February 26—Squamish Winter Farmers Market, CN Roundhouse & Conference

centre, 1000 to 1500k. • Tuesday, February 28—WCRA Annual General Meeting, Rainbow Creek Station • Saturday, March 3—Rock Into Spring Gala, CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre,

1800 hours. Tickets available from the Heritage Park or the Hastings office at $100+HST.

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. Membership prices are as follows, Please note that HST must be added to all fees: Senior $50 ($56), Individual $55 (61.60), Family $65 (72.80) E Members (electronic newsletter only) are $35 ($39.20) Senior, $40 ($44.80) individual and $50 ($33.60) family. Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 30 ($33.60) - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Membership $700 ($784) individual life / $1,200 ($1,344) 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.


EDITORIAL

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR READERS It is a pleasure to welcome you all to 2012, Happy New year to everyone. We are looking forward to a year of moving forward, as we put some of last year's challenges behind us and get back at our really important core goals. Plan to attend the Annual General Meeting in February to hear more about where we are headed. ABOUT THIS ISSUE Your editor started off 2012 with a period of illness. I am very happy to say that I am starting to get back to normal now, but have a huge backlog to catch up. Accordingly less time is going into this issue than normal in order to meet the deadline and provide the meeting notice on time. So, if there are a few rough patches this time, please understand. Thanks! TENNESSEE Yes—you see I really can spell Tennessee! But, you might not have known it reading our January issue, which featured a spelling gremlin right in the headline. It was also misspelled elsewhere in the issue. So much for spell check—my sincere apologies to all our great friends from Tennessee and the wonderful job they did with the ARM—TRAIN 2011 Conference.

Don

ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE DECEMBER GENERAL MEETING Chair Bill Johnston called meeting to order at 19:30K, with a quorum present of 30 voting members and no guests, at Rainbow Creek Station, Burnaby. • Special Presentation – Russ Grycan presented a short DVD WCRA Heros which he

prepared as a tribute to the Association’s 2011 Volunteers. • Notice of WCRA Director Vacancy.—Members advised that Colin Dathan’s term limits

out in 2012 therefore Nomination/Elections for position of a WCRA Director will be held at the Next General Meeting January 31/12.

COMMITTEE REPORTS • Finance – Bill Johnston for Don Evans

New Banking Arrangements are in place with Scotia Bank. We will transition over the next 1 or 2 months.

• Fundraising –Jeremy Davy for Don Evans, Two significant items received: In kind Heritage Park Donation $15,713 and Western Canada Railway Club wind up


$26,110. To be used for education programs. Month Total was $65,935; • Heritage Park – Russ Grycan for Dave Thomson

• November Park visits 2,624 - 163% over last year; • Several large events in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre contributed this

month: Polar Express (2 Weekends) – 3,400 Tickets sold; Farmers Market – Nov 13th;

• 2 other major events scheduled in December: Christmas Farmers Market Dec 11 – 1,000+ Attendees Christmas Lights in the Park Dec 17 to 21.

• There will be 2 Farmers Markets in January and February • Olga Junkin and Barbara Stover, both long time Staffers, have retired; • 13 senior Russian Railway Executives made a surprise visit to the Park and enjoyed

lunch. • Mechanical– Russ Grycan

• Continued to support all Roundhouse & Park events with Rolling Stock moves; • Ran 16 Trains for Polar Express (3,400 visitors) - Caboose 1859 was a great hit; • Special thanks to the CN Volunteers for Crewing the PEX trains. • Work currently underway:

Window seal program on Paul D Roy – Others to follow; Ongoing projects CP 6503 - BCER960 - 2860 - Bunk Car – Alberta;

• Two Run a Locomotive Program sessions booked for 2012; • Park track inspected and stabilization work done to fix 2 areas;

• 374 Pavilion – Bill Johnston • November numbers way up—we are 9k over L/Y; • Thanks to all Volunteer – Enabled increase in open hours. • The Russian Railway Executives visited on Sunday.

Collection Conservation and Restoration – Dave Emmington • Collection Committee renamed; • First Meeting held October; • Currently 13 members – have held 3 meetings to develop Strategy; • Next Meeting Jan 21/12 @ Hastings; • On the occasion of his 87th Birthday (Dec 10) Norm Shepherd was cited for his long

time support of the Association and the collection. To mark the Occasion Norm presented a donation of $1,000 for the restoration of BCER960.

BCER 960 Project Team - Mike McGaw • Aiming for cosmetic restoration by end of Summer 2012; • Martin Jergens & Ron Anstey are working on Side Panels drawings; • Heavy timbers to hold “Trolley pole roof array” donated;

Other donations are showing up – more still welcome.


Collection Content/Structure – Dave Emmington 4 motions presented on behalf of the CC & RC. For purpose of these minutes described as

• To accession Tender CP415818 into the 1920 “Wreck Auxiliary”. ; Carried - WCRA to formally advise KHR the Tender has been accessioned to the

collection; • To de-accession Steam Pump Asset Number 1999.29.03 (Traded to KHR); Carried • To de-accession Great Northern Coach 1057; Carried • To accession Bulkhead Flat Car BCOL17745 into the 1950 “Freight Train”. Carried

Framed pictures were presented to Norm Shepherd (BCER 960) and Arthur Irving (GN Coaches).

Membership – Jeremy Davy Growth rate tapering off to normal off season level, 36 renewals at Senior rate - will

probably increase with December renewals; Volunteer Hours – Jeremy Davy

This year the tabulation of this information has transferred from Colin Dathan to Donna Simon. Contact Donna by email at [email protected] or by calling 604-484-2791 - has voicemail. Remember … If you drive when you volunteer – the mileage is eligible for a Tax receipt.

Tours – Bonnie Game Rocky Mountaineer has introduced a New Silver Leaf class for the 2012 season; Tours can provide Gift Certificates for Xmas Gifts; Rocky Mountaineer again has time limited BC Resident Specials on the Sea to Sky Climb

in 2012. Trackside Reports: were provided by Ryan Cruickshank and Bill Marchant. Eric Anderson donated $26.05 in Canadian Tire Money Raffle was held which paid the rent. Remainder going to the lucky winner. Entertainment – DVD presentation. WCRA TRIVIA #276 - by Ryan Cruickshank What are the names of the great railway hotels located in a) Ottawa, b) Saskatoon, c) Calgary and d) Winnipeg. WCRA TRIVIA #277 - by Ryan Cruickshank What was Canada’s first grand railway hotel? (answers on page 27) MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Memberships dated 12/31/2011 have now expired, and if your membership expired 10/31/2011, 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. 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 [email protected] and the server will be updated as required. (J.D.) NEW MEMBERS The West Coast Railway Association welcomes aboard the following new members:

• Marc Fournier of Chilliwack,

• Christy Lutz and family of North Vancouver (apologies for typo last month)

• John Marinis and family of Garibaldi Highlands, (J.D.) MEMBER / PEOPLE NOTES Our sympathies to Glen Olds on the passing on of his wife, Marjorie on December 15. The Olds have been long time active participants and supporters of WCRA. Our sympathies are also extended to member Greg Robertshaw on the passing on of his partner Elaine in late November. Greg is a regular volunteer and part of the CPR 6503 restoration team, and now starting on CP 8000. Congratulations to Dorothea Matewish who was honoured with a lifetime membership in the New Democratic Party. She received the honour in person at a ceremony held at Canada Place. Jeremy reports that one of our long time Canada Post Heritage Club volunteers, Roy Nukina, passed away in December. WCRA’s own Don Evans was noted as one of “Five who have made their mark” in Squamish. He was one of five entrepreneurs singled out for having made significant and positive change to that community. (of course, it is the whole WCRA team that really deserves the credit—thanks to all of you). STAFF NOTES Our best wishes to Vice President and General Manager Dave Thomson, who is leaving WCRA effective January 31 to start a new role as Director of Development at the CNIB.


Dave has been a major contributor, both as General Manager of the Heritage Park as well as in his latest role. We wish him well in his new endeavours and thank him very much for his service over the last couple of years. Don Evans will return as CEO in an acting capacity effective February 1, while the WCRA board gets to work on the hiring of a new President & CEO for WCRA. RUSS GRYCAN HELPS AT SQUAMISH TERMINALS The WCRA is pleased to help out one of our long time Squamish supporters for a couple of months, through the loan of our CMO Russ Grycan to assist with their mechanical leadership while their own chief mechanical person is off for medical reasons. This is a win win arrangement that will help out Squamish Terminals with their need while also assisting WCRA financially during or slowest time of year. Russ remains available to WCRA and is working between the two on a shared basis. VOLUNTEER HOURS - Reporting Please remember to submit volunteer hours for 2011 as soon as you can. The WCRA relies on the hours our volunteers generously donate in carrying out the activities of the Association when seeking funding from other organizations. Everything you do for WCRA (except attending General meetings) counts…volunteering at the Heritage Park or as a tour host, serving on a Committee, attending board meetings, helping in the office, staffing the 374 Pavilion—all hours are important and all hours count. This year the tabulation and reporting of this information has transferred from Colin Dathan to Donna Simon. Please let Donna know the time you have donated by emailing her at [email protected] or by calling 250-890-3233 (or 604-484-2791 toll free from Vancouver

calling area) – both phones have voicemail. (D.S.) VOLUNTEER HOURS - Mileage Don’t forget that all mileage incurred with the Volunteer activities you reported above are eligible for a Tax Receipt. Not sure how to do this? For assistance contact Jeremy at [email protected], or calling the numbers above. (J.D.)

COLLECTION ANOTHER BCIT PRACTICUM HELD

January 9 to 13 saw 8 BCIT students on site for 40- 45 hours of practical training on switching


railcars and learning safe operating practices. Instructors were Roy Crowston, John Jellis, and Robert Macbeth. Unlike the session in November, the weather this time was clear and cool for the week. BCER 960 RECEIVES MAJOR FUNDING FROM SIRS We are most pleased to announce that the WCRA has received a gift of $30,000 towards the restoration of BC Electric steeple cab #960 from the Steveston Interurban Restoration Society. This society is ceasing operation in 2012 and chose to disperse some of their funds to this project. The funding is welcome news as it means that the goal of celebrating this historic locomotive's 100th birthday this summer looks very achievable. The restored lomcotive will carry a plaque acknowledging this donation. Regular project updates will appear in each issue of WCRA News. BCER 960 UPDATE NOTES From Bill Marchant: The 960 project continues to surprise us with positive moments that encourage our progress. Several years ago at Hefley Lake staying with friends in their cottage, we met a guy also visiting them, named Reg Ahern. When talk got around to railways, he mentioned working for the BCE Railway years ago, so naturally I said we had one of their little electric locos at Squamish. When we recently started the restoration project, I contacted him just in case he could help somehow. He asked if we had received the electrical print he had given us for the archives, years ago, using Colin Dathan as the delivery service. Colin remembered taking it to the park. Then I asked Trevor Mills if he could watch for it when he had a chance, working in the archives. I didn't know if it was rolled or framed, so I wasn't much help, but good ol' Trev found it a few weeks later, in an old oily wood frame, with glass. It's still a bright blue, quite legible, sub-titled 'Engineering Dept. General Electric Company' and dated 1912! It mentions the Oregon Electric Railway 50 and 60 Ton Locomotives, and is the schematic and wiring diagram; a real treasure, and will help a fair amount with restoration, although there's been many modifications over the years, plus will be a great display item next to the restored locomotive. Thanks guys! (B.M.) From Mike McGaw: Re 960, we're on the home stretch for cutting off old steel and junk off above deck. The bottom 6 inch skirting around the cab for the very most part is hopeless and being cut out by Randy... the cab is virtually hanging in the air on the left side, with a bit more cutting on right side to go. Randy will then be torching out some bolt remnants in the deck. Clearly we are at the final stage of drawings and getting shop quotes for re fab steel, for the cab skirting, sandbox fixes, 2 lower door jams and of course the side walls of both hoods. All paint is off the cab save for some areas on front and back walls. Bill has started cutting our new wood for the roof trolley pole platform.


Fantastic drawings now, as we can go over same at our meet, and then Martin will be keen to get some firm estimates breaking down side panels, angle iron footings for same and hoods, sand box retro's, 2 bottom end door jam and sill rebuilds, plus, skirting for cab. Suggest the skirting and door jams now paramount so we can have cab rock solid for Bill's new trolley pole decking to have an opportunity get back on roof with hardware. (M. McG.) 6 WHEEL PASSENGER CAR TRUCKS AVAILABLE West Coast Railway Association is looking for a home for a set of 6-wheel passenger car trucks circa 1890-1910. They are of composite steel-wood construction with bolted pedestals and 5x9 journal bearings. The trucks are of Great Northern origin, albeit the original builder is not known. These trucks will be of value to some museums that have wooden cars without trucks and we would like to see them preserved in some restoration project at another railway museum. (R.A., D.E.) CN SHOVEL OPERATORS BUNK CAR Chris Forget continues to work on this car in the PGE carshop building, and reports” - The car is almost finished, the door locks have been installed by Randy Lucas. - The roof is waiting for the material to be delivered and then can be completed. Once this is done, the brake handle will be installed and the roof walk and stacks will be put back on. Some detail painting on the outside will have to wait till warmer weather. We are working towards an official unveiling of the car in early May, 2012. (C.F.) COLLECTION CHANGES The Collection, Conservation & Restoration Committee (CC&RC) had four motions approved at the December general meeting that will alter our core rolling stock collection. • Steam tender CP 415818 was accessioned into the collection • Bulkhead flat car BCOL 17745 was accessioned into the collection • Great Northern parlour car 1057 was de-accessioned from the collection • Steam Pump asset 1999.29.o3 was de-accessioned and traded to Kamloops Heritage

railway (D.E.) OUR VOLUNTEERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

• 4 days and 16 trips of our Polar Express train carried close to 3,500 happy passengers. A big thank you to the volunteer professional train crews from CN and to CN for the use of their yard tracks down to Squamish Terminals.


• Thanks to all the “on-train” and “in Park” volunteers for the Polar Express and Lights in

the Park events…you really make a difference! • A major effort by crew and volunteers to place lights around the mini-rail tracks and the

Park, welcoming another record turnout for Lights in the Park 2011 • Continued efforts to re-seal leaking windows in coach Paul D Roy • BCOL 1859 Caboose is completed and is a tremendous addition to the collection.

Congratulations and thanks to Donna, her crew, and the sponsors of paint and decals. • Continued work by volunteer crews on 960; 6503; 2860 and Bunk Car • Thanks go out to John Jellis for his assistance in moving cars around our facility. • Thank you to all the full time mechanical, guest services and volunteers that invested

hundreds of hours to keep our guests happy and help our income during the month…tremendous efforts!

• We had a wet December season, but the Park facilities worked well.

Volunteering rewards many…you, your friends, the WCRA members, other volunteers, and

our guests. There is room for you! Give us a call! (R.G.)

FUNDRAISING ANNUAL DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGN Thank you to everyone who supported us in our 2011 Direct mail campaign. Once again many of you showed your support in donations ranging from $10 to $4,000—each one assisting us as we work our way forward. In total, we raised around $20,000. Thanks to you all! DECEMBER REPORT December kicks off our new fiscal year, and your editor was away for much of the month on a variety or travels. The Direct mail was the principal source of new funds during the month, outside of a busy month of operations as you are reading about throughout this issue. Funding Asks Made • Work to secure funding for BCER 960 project Major Funding Received • Direct mail $12,865 • In memoriam $100 (Don Greenwood) • Debenture Interest donation $300 • Sustaining member $100 • United Way $88 • Roundhouse Chairs Donation $200


Month Total $13,653 Year to Date Total $13,653

(General Funds $13,453, Roundhouse Funds $200)

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

48,735 VISITORS IN 2011—NEW RECORD SET! The West Coast Railway Heritage Park hosted a total of 48,735 visitors in 2011, a tremendous 53% growth over last year and setting a new all time record for attendance. This completes a year in which every month saw significant growth above 2010, driven by both the many events that used the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre as well as solid growth in many of our events and activities. Every month of the year saw growth, with February our lowest month at 1,765 (vs 336 in 2010) to June as our strongest month at 13,224 (vs. 11,758 in 2010).. November and December kept the trend, with November ringing in at 2,624 guests (863 last year) and December with 4,946 guests (vs 3,889 last year). Our target was to hit 50,000—we came very close! Congratulations to Dave Thomson and his team at the Heritage Park for a tremendous year. HERITAGE PARK OFFERS NEW YEAR’S SPECIALS The West Coast Railway Heritage Park is getting the new year started with a celebration, and is offering several specials through the first part of the year. These are well worth your attention, take advantage of them now…….. Heritage Park Gift Shop (we accept phone-in orders, 604-898-9336) – until March 31, 2012

• 50% off Vintage Royal Doulton china from CN and the Hotel Vancouver. This also includes a very special selection of railway collector plates including: Whitepass, The Hobo, and Steam on the CNR

• 40% off all glassware (excluding pottery) • Spend $50 or more in the Gift Shop and receive an exclusive Royal Hudson wooden box

corkscrew set (value $30) • Spend $5 or more in the Gift Shop and receive an entry into our draw for a chance to

win a free family membership for a year (value $56) West Coast Heritage Park

• Book the Birthday Caboose before March 31st (birthday can be anytime in 2012) and receive $20 worth of Polar Express merchandise


• Special Fridays—Every Friday between January 1 and April 1, admission to the

Heritage Park will be half price (excluding special event dates) Unique Gourmet Dinner Packages Book a private dinner on the 1890 Car British Columbia for four and pay for three (space is limited, first come first served – savings of $100) - offer expires March 31, 2012. This is a very special private evening event for your party, minimum party is four, maximum party is six. This has never been offered before, make your booking now at 604-898-9336. Run a Locomotive

Our new Run A Locomotive Program available for three months only at a special offer of just $175 (a $75 savings) – offer expires March 31, 2012. This is a truly unique experience, call now and book your time. POLAR EXPRESS 2011 The WCRA’s Polar Express 2011 expanded from one weekend to two this year, and was very popular—busy on the first weekend and sold out the second. A total of 3,414 tickets were sold and the event got rave reviews from those who came. The format was as previous years, with four departures each day from the Heritage Park’s Mac

Norris Station. Guests arrived and boarded the train—many wearing their pajamas as encouraged, and the train departed for a 60 minutes trip from the heritage park to the end of the Squamish Terminals spur and return. On the train was the Polar Express story, hot chocolate and cookies, classic conductor ticket punching and more as scenes from the movie unfolded live to the delight of our guests. After departure, staff transformed the Mac Norris station into the North Pole station by positing Christmas tress onto the platform and illuminating lights etc in the area, so when the train returned they were arriving at the North Pole. The guests then disembarked and walked into the Roundhouse, which was the north pole experience. In the roundhouse were a beautifully decorated Christmas space, Santa and Mrs. Claus, crafts and activities, face painting, letters to Santa, the West Coast Mini rail, Polar Express merchandise, food etc. Train consist was CPR FP7A #4069, generator car WCXX 9622 McDonald Creek, coaches WCXX 5652 Capilano, WCXX 5596 Paul D Roy, WCXX 3223 and WCXX 3218 Bill &

Dorothy Lahr. On the tail end was caboose BCOL 1859 which provided the crew location for the reverse move as well as our new “Caboose Class” (see cover photo). The caboose platform was the favourite photo spot (rear cover), and a beautiful drumhead was built by our shop.


This was the first year we have done two weekends, and it was clear that the market is there so we will do two again next year. However, there will also be some changes based on our 2011 experiences….. • We will shift to run the first two weekends of December in 2012 as the December dates

sold out while the November dates did not. Cleary December is a better month for the spirit of this event.

• Next year we will add a second first class car—the first class seats sold out both weekends very quickly and many who wanted first class had to ride coach

We couldn’t have done this without our volunteers and sponsors. I hope to have a list to run next month and apologize for not having it at this time. To all of you who helped out, you were amazing and made the experience for our guests. Operations' were enabled by the sponsorship and support of CN in allowing the track time, and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference for the volunteer operating crews. Global BC TV was the major media partner, and did a great job in building the awareness of the event throughout the Metro Vancouver area. The Canada Post Heritage Club was also a huge hit with their Letters to Santa (each of the more than 500 letters was answered) and the West Coast Mini Rail crews did a great job in the comfort of the roundhouse as the little trains provided another activity. Thanks also to a group called “Team Anchor” who donated money to buy tickets for some needy families and everyone else who pitched in. (D.F., D.F., D.T., R.G.) CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN THE PARK 2011 Christmas Lights in the Park 2011 almost didn’t happen this year. As the final event in the Community Celebration Series for the 2011 operating year and on the heels of the largest and most complicated Polar Express event ever, it was challenging to ask staff and volunteers to, once more, pour their heart and soul into an outdoor event so in winter. In an attempt to minimize the burn out rate of staff, it was decided to shorten the event to five (5) days this year compared to the six (6) days in past. It was also decided to start on a Saturday to allow staff a night off on the Friday. Luckily, the weather leading up to the event and after Polar Express, was wet but not full of snow allowing windows of opportunity to hang lights. A work party was struck on a Sunday to have as many volunteers and staff available all at the same time. This staff gathering helped in boosting team spirit. Once again, Tomo’o’s dedication to organization and efficiency/cost saving allowed the Society to easily find and use 95% of the lights and props from previous year without additional expense. Advertising was through community social media channels, Mountain FM existing radio buy, and complimentary advertising in the Chief Newspaper. An email blast was also sent out to all members through the Vancouver Tours office. Public comment was that the event was the most efficiently run and best lights display in the past four years. Mr and Mrs. Claus were a huge hit. All five days went off without any major issues.


Awaiting the crowds…..(photos by Russ Grycan)

The Garden Railway was also fully decked out and operating and was a huge hit with the riders, thanks to Les Duke. (below)

The Beanery was also open and serving the ever popular hot chocolate and goodies, helping ward off the cool evening air. The result of all this was we had a great event, and set a new record of 669 guests (556 last year) even thought there were fewer days. The event was also nicely profitable to WCRA and rounded out our Christmas season with a nice Squamish community event. Thanks to all that helped.


Mini Rail Train lights up the tracks during Christmas Lights in the Park….

Jeremy adds, “last year with a 6 day run, 556 passengers were carried … This year in 5 days we guided 669 through what was, according to feedback, “the most efficiently run and best

lights display in the past four years”. As many as three trains were operating this year at the same time. While this year’s numbers show a 20% increase in total riders, the average daily loads were 44% higher. Another great event to cap a very busy month of December. (D.T., J.D.)

DINNER ON THE ALBERTA

On Friday December 9, the Car Alberta was the location for a very special fourteen (14) person five course Christmas dinner catered by Chef Gregg Van Hierden. The private function saw cocktails and hand served appies in the lounge portion of the car while dinner was served from inside the onboard kitchen. A generous donation of matching seat covers, chargers, and napkins from WCRA member Dorothea Matewish and Donna Fourchalk’s amazing staging skills created an elegant evening that will not be soon forgotten by our guests. (D.T.) THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING Credit for this one goes to Donna Fourchalk and her merry band of volunteers. A last minute phone call on Friday from a Whistler bound tour group looking for an agenda ‘filler’


over lunch on Monday December 12, had Donna and her team in full operation tour mode as thirteen senior railway officials and tour guides from Russia descended upon the Heritage Park for a detailed tour of the 12 acre Park and its contents as well as catered lunch on board the Car Alberta. We all knew things were going well when a large bottle of Vodka was pulled out of a jacket in the middle of lunch for all of the visitors to make a toast to their new Canadian friends. (D.T.)

CHRISTMAS FARMERS MARKET

On Sunday December 11, the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre played host to the last Squamish Farmer’s Market for 2011. A record number of exhibitors (65) welcomed over 1,400 patrons into the CN Roundhouse over a five hour period. (photo, Russ Grycan)

The following is an excerpt from an email received from the organizer of the Market about

the level of service received:


Hi David ~ Thanks for checking in. I am so happy with our Holiday Market. Set up went

smoothly, the vendors fit well with a slight alteration to booth sizes and there was a great

crowd. Overall, it has been an absolute pleasure to have the market at the Roundhouse-

it is a fantastic location, and the staff on hand have been a great help. You caught me in

my crux of stress yesterday morning... and I was anxious to put my paper plan into action

and fit everyone in- sorry if I was short, or overly demanding with the trees and

brooms!! It all worked out very well, we gave 1/2 the trees away, and did some extra

sweeping at the end!!

With gratitude for all of your hard work!! Carolyn

DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH COUNCIL INAUGURATION On December 6, 2011 the new District of Squamish Council was inaugurated, at an event held at the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. More than 125 were in attendance as new Mayor Rob Kirkham and the newly elected councilors were sworn in. The room was decorated with about 20 Christmas trees, the stage and chairs laid out for spectators and press. (photo, Russ Grycan).

Once again the roundhouse performed beautifully for a community function and WCRA was pleased to host the event. Following the official ceremonies there was food, drink, and plenty of good will and laughter all around. What was most amazing, though, was that just 24 hours earlier the roundhouse was still all set up as the North Pole for Polar Express. Our staff and volunteer crew has become truly amazing at transforming the space! (D.T.)


DONATIONS FOR CHAIRS CONTINUE Thanks to the most recent donor George & Bonnie Game who have supported the purchase of the badly needed chairs for the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. This donation will add the ability to purchase another 10 chairs, bringing our total just above 190, but we want to continue until we get to 250 total. Each donation of $200 buys another ten new chairs. Donations can be made at the Heritage Park or through Don Evans.

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

Here is our first release of tours for 2012. have a look at some of the great travel available and make your plans to participate. Don’t forget WCR Tours can book your independent travel at any time—we meet the best prices and your bookings result in commissions to the WCRA. The Tours Committee continues to meet one week prior to the monthly general meetings. To keep informed of upcoming tours and special excursions submit your e-mail address at www.westcoastrailtours.com . That way you will get up-to-the-minute news on tours. and new trips. Let us help put you on board the travel of your choice in 2011. (B.G.) 2012 ORGANIZED TOURS May 29 Totems of Haida Gwaii - Pricing in progress Take a journey to Haida Gwaii and experience First Nations culture. Start by sleeping comfortably in your private cabin on VIA Rail’s “Canadian” en route to Jasper in the heart of the Rockies. Spend a free day here. An optional day tour is available. Then VIA Rail’s “Skeena” takes you across central British Columbia to Prince Rupert for a free day. A BC Ferry then sails overnight to Haida Gwaii. Once on these remote islands you will experience museum visits, native dances, feasts and many other sights. Return trip is by air direct to Vancouver. June 7 Wild West Rail & Wine Tasting 4 Days $863 per person (NO HST) Depart Vancouver via motorcoach to Yakima, known for lush apples, and award winning wine. Experience America’s last intact early 20th Century interurban electric railroad. This evening includes an overnight in La Grande, Oregon with dinner and a movie (included) at Historic Hot Lake Springs. The next day ride the Eagle Cap Excursion Train along the scenic Grande Ronde and Wallowa Rivers of northeast Oregon. The train crosses the confluence of the two rivers at Rondowa and continues to Kimmel siding. Enjoy lunch onboard (included).


Travel from the Wild West to the Bavarian village of Leavenworth on your return trip to Vancouver July 24 Mountains of BC & Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad 5-Days $865 per person Stop at spectacular Shannon Falls before arriving in Whistler. After overnight in Whistler travel north through Cariboo Country, enjoy lunch in Cache Creek. Travel though Ranch Country to Sun Peaks, stroll through shops in the village. Depart Sun Peaks Mountain Resort. for Vernon, Silver Star Mountain. From the Mountains to the Okanagan fruit belt, visit the Jammery for a tour and samples. Visit Summerhill Winery, before arriving in Kelowna. Visit Big White, winter wonderland for skiers. Visit Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad July 25 White Pass & Steam Spectacular pricing in progress Highlights: Vintage Diesel & Steam Trains in one trip. Fraser Meadows Steam Train, travel with Engine No 73 or No. 69, 6 miles beyond White Pass Summit to Fraser Meadows, a 43 miles roundtrip. Then hop aboard the Yukon Adventure, follow the trail of the Sourdoughs between Skagway & Alaska & Carcross Yukon. August 9 Wells Gray Park & Kamloops Heritage Train 3 Days $575 per person Highlights: Hells Gate Airtram, Helmecken Falls, Wells Gray Guest Ranch, 1912 Steam Locomotive. Admire the Japanese Gardens and chainsaw carvings in Hope, chainsaw capital of Canada. Take an aerial tram ride across the mighty Fraser River Canyon. The next day discover Wells Gray Provincial Park and spectacular Helmecken Falls, a waterfall 3 times the height of Niagara Falls. All aboard on our final day for a ride on the ‘Spirit of Kamloops’ pulled by a restored 1912 steam locomotive. Cross over the 1927 Steel Trestle Bridge and learn the story of the great train robbery of 1906. August 9 Rails of Northern Oregon 5 Days $990 (Adt) $970 (Snr) – (NO HST) Highlights: International Rose Test Bed, Timberline Lodge, Columbia Gorge, Multnomah Falls, Murder Mystery Dinner on Mt Hood Railway Board Amtrak’s Cascades evening train from Vancouver to Seattle. Overnight in Seattle. The following day board Amtrak Cascades direct to Portland. Enjoy scenic tours including Timberline Lodge, Columbia Gorge, Bonneville Dam, and Multnomah Falls followed by a Murder Mystery Dinner on Mt. Hood Railway’s vintage train.


August 23 West Coast, Chemainus & Victoria 5 Days $1,165 per person Highlights: Tofino, Coombs Market, Cathedral Grove, Royal BC Museum Five days of sightseeing Vancouver Island’s well known icons; watch the Goats grazing on the roof at Coombs Market, Stop in Cathedral Grove, view the 800 year old Hemlocks tower over the giant evergreens. Board the MV Francis Barkley for a relaxing trip down the Alberni Canal into Ucluelet. Visit the Mars Bomber Museum; photograph the many murals around the town of Chemainus. This evening see a production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The Royal BC Museum is also included in the tour. Celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in photos. November 30 Victorian Country Christmas 3 Days $545 per person (NO HST) Highlights: Tulalip Casino, Puyalip Victorian Christmas Craft Fair Pick up at US Border Duty Free Store. Enjoy shopping at the Factory Outlet stores or try your

luck at the Tulalip Casino until your rooms are ready at the Tulalip Casino Hotel. This evening

travel to Stanwood Wa., to enjoy the Christmas Lights and live dinner theater production (5

course Dinner included), Step back in time as the Puyallup fairgrounds are transformed into a

Victorian Village with over 500 shops with staff dressed in Victorian attire. Enjoy the stage

shows while taking a much needed break from shopping. View the ‘Fantasy Lights’ in

Spanaway Park, the largest holiday drive through display in the Northwest.

ON YOUR OWN

PORTLAND ON AMTRAK CASCADES—any time year round Are you in the mood for some US shopping (or just a delightful visit to the great city of Portland)? Why not take advantage of the strong Canadian Dollar? Travel to one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world by rail, the most comfortable method of transportation. Departures from Vancouver every day at 6:40 am, arriving in Portland at 2:55 pm. Return train departs Portland at 2:50 pm, returning to Vancouver at 10:50 pm. Round trip rail tickets start at $110 (Seniors $93.50). We also book your hotel in the downtown area starting at $100/night. You decide how many nights you want to stay. NEXT PAGES…….Ever wonder about the relationship between horsepower and tractive effort needed when a locomotive needs to move a train…….this may help!

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

WCRA NewsWCRA NewsWCRA NewsWCRA News

WCRA News, WCRA News, Page 23WCRA News, Page 23WCRA News, Page 23 374 Pavilion

The number of visitors to the famous locomotive for the year 2011 was just short of 34,000, about 10,000 more than last year. This includes about 3,000 attending the Illuminate Yaletown event in February. An N-Scale model railway loop is now operating inside one of the larger cabinets much to the delight of youngsters. Thanks to Central Hobbies for the temporary donation. The construction work on the Turntable Plaza has ceased until the final stage can be completed, likely in February. This involves the construction of a canopy and other amenities. May 20th, 2012 will be the date of our celebration of the locomotive’s 125th Anniversary and planning will commence soon on preparations required. We are always looking for volunteers to work at the Locomotive 374 Pavilion. We still need backups as some of the regulars are away or ill from time to time. Full orientation, parking pass and coffee are supplied. If you are interested in assisting us and greeting a wide range of visitors from all over the world please contact Bill Johnston at 604-522-9068 or e-mail at: [email protected] (B.J.)

RAILWAY NEWS EX BCR DINNER TRAIN CARS GO TO U.S. Three of the former BC Rail Pacific Starlight Dinner train cars have returned to the US. The entire train was sold to Ontario Northland when it ended its service locally. Now dining car Apollo (nee C & O) has gone to a railroad museum at Medina, NY. And ex BCOL Moonglow (nee ATSF dome dining car) and BCOL 154 Rainbow (nee Western Pacific dining car) have been sold to a purchaser in Texas. (SDHSE) DISTRIBUTION CENTRE EXPANSION IN PRINCE GEORGE CN is expanding its distribution centre in Prince George at a cost of $3.2 million. The transload facility now will run two shifts seven days a week and is expected to grow to handle some 30,000 containers annually. (SDHSE)

CP plans to lengthen its transcontinental trains 11 percent by the end of 2013 from their current limit of 12,000 feet, the company has announced. The railroad is continuing to install new,


longer sidings and lengthen existing sidings to accommodate the longer trains. “Long trains are the cornerstone of CP’s operating strategy,” said Mike Franczak, the railroad’s executive vice president of operations. “By increasing train lengths and realizing strategic long siding investments, CP is maximizing productivity and service while reducing labour costs and increasing fuel efficiency.” In addition to lengthening transcontinental trains, CP has been stretching unit trains carrying export commodities on its system’s west end. Recent investments in sidings there have enabled the railroad to lengthen potash trains 20 percent and coal trains 18 percent. (TJ) SEASON ADVERTISING GETS UP AND RUNNING Rocky Mountaineer has had a significant advertising blitz going promoting the Whistler service to British Columbia residents. The ads have run in many media, including full page colour in the local Vancouver papers. WHISTLER SEA TO SKY CLIMB BECOMES A SINGLE CLASS TRAIN The experiment from last year of a new Silver Leaf class on the Vancouver—Banff / Calgary train will become a regular service for 2012. Accordingly, the two glass topped cars that were originally done for the Whistler Mountaineer will be assigned the Vancouver-Calgary run. The Whistler Sea to Sky Climb train for 2012 will operate exclusively with former Red Leaf single level coaches and, of course, the open observation car Henry Picketing. WINNIPEG NEWS Word has it that the four Northern Spirit cars, stored for several years at the Winnipeg Maintenance Centre, have been sold "to Mexico" and are being prepared for moving. They were observed are all coupled together beside the WMC, not where they have been stored. Also, blue and yellow baggage-coach VIA 5649 was parked next to the WMC as well. It is assumed that VIA 692 brought it in recently for maintenance. (via J.M.) NEW HORNS To comply with new Transport Canada recommendations, VIA has begun adding louder, higher frequency emergency horns to their P42s, as they have been to the rebuilt F40s. Several


VIA P42DCs have already received an additional 5-chime unpainted horn, located above the right-hand roofline over the cab. Unlike the F40s, where a 3-chime and 2 chime horns are located on either side of the cab roof, the horns on the P42 are a single cluster. Locomotives 901, 903, 904, 907, 908, 912 and 917 have been confirmed to have these new horns to date, with the as-built set of horns, set into a depression behind the cab. The remainder of the P42 fleet will soon receive them as well. (TJ) CHEF SERVICE COMES OFF WINNIPEG—CHURCHILL TRAINS VIA will eliminate fresh cooked meals from the Winnipeg—Churchill train, with the exception of the peak Polar Bear watching season each fall. The rest of the time, it will be microwaved food. Five chef positions will be eliminated. (BL) CANADIAN OPERATES SANS PARK CAR The Via Canadian arrival of October 8 was missing its usual Park series dome observation car on the rear of the train. The car travelling with the train had to be set out at Hornepayne, Ontario due flat wheels. Ex BCR glass top car 1722 was added somewhere west and arrived into Vancouver on the rear of the train. There was no spare at Vancouver, so the Canadian of October 9 departed with the 1722 again bringing up the markers. (SDHSE)

OTHER NEWS OWL & ENGINEER BEING DEMOLISHED The Surrey restaurant (Scott Road at 82nd) that started life as the Owl and the Engineer, incorporating several railcars into its design, is being demolished. A public notice advises of the impending redevelopment of the property and the removal of the railcars. (D.E.) CLASSY LOCOMOTIVE SET ON BNSF AT NEW WESTMINSTER Recently, a classy locomotive set of three GP units, all painted in the current BNSF “Swoosh” logo, has been based at New Westminster. An A –B –A set consisting of GP38-2 2772, GP60B 332, and GP38-3 2651 was seen heading a 40 car train out the Tilbury Island branch. (K.S.) WEST COAST EXPRESS The first West Coast Express train of November 4 hit a bear near Ruskin, delaying the train some 40 minutes. Train 2 ran past the delayed train on the other main, then train 1 followed it to Vancouver about ten minutes later……..WCE ran “Santa Trains for Christmas shoppers on December 10 and 17. (SDHSE)


Sharing the tracks at the south end of the San Diego, CA station on December 18, 2011 were Amtrak F59PHI #456, a beautiful Milwaukee Road car and an ex CN / VIA open platform car named Tioga Pass. The private cars left later that night on the tail end of a Surfliner train bound for Los Angeles. (Don Evans photo)

WCRA News, WCRA News, Page 27WCRA News, Page 27WCRA News, Page 27 CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 51 Issue 2 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon Contributors: R.A. Ron Anstey J.D. Jeremy Davy D.E. Dave Emmington D.F. Donna Fourchalk D.F. Danielle Fourchalk B.G. Bonnie Game R.G. Russ Grycan B.J. Bill Johnston B. M. Bill Marchant M. McG. Mike McGaw J.M. Jim McPherson D.S. Donna Simon K.S. Ken Storey D.T. Dave Thomson BL Branchline SDHSE Sandhouse TJ Tempo Jr.

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 <[email protected]>, 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 CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre 604-898-1082 www.wcra.org REAR COVER The most popular photo spot during our Polar Express 2011 was the rear platform of the ca-boose and its great drumhead done by our shop forces. (Keith Anderson photo) TRIVIA ANSWERS

276—a) Chateau Laurier, built 1912 by Grand Trunk, b) The Bessborough, built 1928 by Canadian National, c) The Palliser, built 1914 by Canadian Pacific, d) The Fort Garry, built 1913 by Grand Trunk Pacific. (note, CPR’s Royal Alexandra Winnipeg was built 1911, but was torn down in 1971. The ballroom was preserved and is now reassembled at the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel in Cranbrook, BC.) 277—The Windsor Hotel in Montreal, PQ was built between 1875 and 1878 by the Grand Trunk and Canadian Pacific and opened on January 28, 1878. In 1957 all but the north annex was destroyed by fire, however this section with 200 rooms remained open until 1981. The building remains and is owed by Desjardins Financial Group.

Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 51 Issue 2 www.wcra.org http://twitter.com/WCRailway Canada Post, Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40007853

february 2012 news - west coast railway association · 2018. 11. 16. · february 2012february 2012...

Documents