It's full steam ahead for train

Kitchener, Cambridge and Waterloo Record
September 29, 2007

The only working steam engine in Ontario will be chugging into town in time for Oktoberfest. The Southern Ontario Locomotive Restoration Society plans to run trips from Waterloo to St. Jacobs and Elmira using its restored steam engine No. 9, originally built in 1923. The first trip started yesterday. "It has unique sights and sounds and smells and feel of the locomotive taking you back to the era of the 1920s and '30s," said Roy Broadbear, president of the restoration society. "It has all the chug-chugs and the toot-toots and the ding- ding-ding of the bell." The engine once ran in Windsor on the Essex Terminal Railway, the oldest short-line railway in the country. It ran from 1923 to 1964 and was used for freight service before falling into disrepair. The restoration society was the third group to buy and try to fix the engine that, until recently, toured across the province. After the Oktoberfest run, which ends Oct. 15, the society plans to keep the steam engine on display in Waterloo. The restoration society started running the Waterloo Central Railway this summer using a vintage 70-tonne diesel engine train to transport passengers between downtown Waterloo and St. Jacobs. The steam train is set to run a similar service to St. Jacobs four days a week, from Friday to Monday, with Friday evening trips to Elmira. Other trips during the week will use the diesel engine.

Special passenger train will bring civic leaders to Omaha

UP
September 24, 2007

The last high-speed diesel-electric locomotives built in the mid-1950s for use on the UP's last famous streamliner and domeliner passenger trains will pull a special passenger train September 27, bringing elected officials and civic leaders to Omaha for Ak-Sar-Ben’s River City Roundup rodeo activities. This will be the 12th time UP has operated this special train to help celebrate the long history the railroad has of bringing passengers to Omaha for rodeo, 4-H or county fair activities. 2007 marks the 80th edition of the Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Livestock Exposition and the 60th edition of the rodeo. The ARCR special train ran 10 consecutive times, from 1982 to 1991, pulled by one of UP’s steam locomotives No. 844 or No. 3985 or the E-9 diesel locomotives. This will be only the second time UP has operated a special ARCR train since 1991, with the last train operating in 2003. UP has restored three E-9 passenger locomotives: No. 951, 949 and 963B, to be used in special train service. The first of the set, 951, was returned to the roster in 1984 after having been retired in 1980 to substitute for steam engine No. 844 on the annual "River City Roundup" train because the steam engine was on display that year at the New Orleans World's Fair.

Steam train takes tourists on time travel excursion

Canadian Press
September 24, 2007

According to journalist Jorge Barrera, every whistle blast from a 100-year-old, Swedish-built locomotive brings passengers on the Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train a little closer to yesterday, making the five-hour round-trip to picturesque Wakefield from Gatineau, QC, an experience in time travel just minutes from Ottawa's downtown core. The steam train runs from May to late October. Fall foliage tours range from $47 for a single adult to $119 for a family of two adults and two children. There are also sunset dinner trips and Sunday brunch trains. “It may not be the Rockies, but the Gatineau Hills seem to charm everyone else around the world,” says Andre Groulx, the train's director of operations. The trip includes a two-hour stop in Wakefield for shopping or simply to explore this historic village built by Scottish and English immigrants.

Capture the splendor of fall foliage via a train excursion

New York Daily News
September 23, 2007

When the green of summer turns to the orange, red and yellow of fall, riding the rails is a great way to see the leaves change color. There are several choices when it comes to leaf-peeping by train. You can journey north through the Hudson Valley to Montreal, west and north to Niagara Falls and Toronto, up the New England countryside or through the Canadian Rockies. Here are five train trips to try: Amtrak's Maple Leaf, Adirondack, Vermonter and Ethan Allen Express journey through New York and New England and into Canada; Great Train Escapes Rail Tours operates the New England Fall Foliage Express, an eight-day/seven-night tour that carries travelers through all six New England states by rail and motor coach; Rocky Mountaineer Vacations operates the Western Explorer, a seven-night excursion that includes two days aboard a train (the Rocky Mountaineer) plus motor coach travel; Grand Luxe Rail Journeys operates Colorado's Rocky Mountains seven-day route between Denver and San Francisco; and finally CP operates the Royal Canadian Pacific luxury train trip through the Canadian Rockies.

For Immediate Release: September 20, 2007

Travel by train and experience the magic of fall aboard the Dream Catcher Express!

The Dream Catcher Express, an exciting train excursion traveling between North Bay and Temagami, will be returning this year for a limited 6-day
engagement in 2007: September 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30.

In partnership will local hospitality operators, the Dream Catcher Express will offer passengers a variety of unique experiences including the romance of rail travel, vibrant fall colours and a sampling of aboriginal culture.

“We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our passengers who rode the Dream Catcher Express last year and we’re very excited to once again partner with regional tourism stakeholders to promote rail travel and the region,” said Steve Carmichael, President and CEO of Ontario Northland.

The Dream Catcher Express will leave Ontario Northland’s North Bay Station at 9:30 a.m. each morning, for a captivating 100 km journey northward to Temagami. Passengers will have an opportunity to delight in the explosion of red, orange and yellow covering the forest from the large viewing windows and in the comfort of spacious passenger cars. The Dream Catcher Express also features live entertainment by Gary Davison, and a licensed snack coach.

Once in Temagami, passengers will have an opportunity to enjoy a variety of lunch options, and either tour the area on their own, or take advantage of a number of fascinating activities, including:

• Exploring an aboriginal tipi village and learning about aboriginal traditions and culture;
• Taking a houseboat tour of beautiful Lake Temagami;
• Walking or hiking through the old growth White Bear Forest;
• Enjoying a scenic bush plane flight over the Temagami region;
• Touring the historic Temagami Station; and
• Visiting Caribou Mountain and the Fire Tower for an unbelievable panoramic view of the area.

Depart Temagami at 3:45 p.m. and arrive back in North Bay at 5:45 p.m.

Pricing
Day Trip – Train Only - $75.00 + taxes per person (adult fare)
Day Trip – Packages $150.00 + taxes per person (adult fare)

Senior, student, children and group rates are also available!

Information and Reservations
For more information or to make a reservation, customers are encouraged to contact:
1.800.268.9281 ext. 2.
TTY/ATS: 1.866.472.3865
Or to visit our web site at www.ontarionorthland.ca

Media Inquiries
For more information, please contact:
Beverly Martin, Chief Communications Officer, Ontario Northland
1.705.472.4500 or 1.800.363.7512 ext. 265

VIA Rail's 'best kept secret'

Orangeville Citizen
September 13, 2007

Tom Claridge recently had the opportunity to take Via's Lake Superior, a train that operates between Sudbury and White River. According to Claridge the trip was both educational and a fascinating experience that would be enjoyed even by those who don't fit the "rail fan" label. The scenery was reminiscent of that found on the popular Agawa Canyon excursions out of Sault Ste. Marie, with countless lake and streams in view as the line snakes its way through the Canadian Shield, although we learned that because of the absence of maple trees the fall colours aren't as spectacular. As for the train crews, they were the friendliest one could ever hope to encounter, the engineers being seasoned CP veterans and the conductors and baggage men (yes, they were all male!) equally affable VIA employees. In short, the trip was fabulous, and VIA's "best kept secret" is a gem waiting to be discovered.

Exporail scores big with Rocket Richard exhibition

Montreal Gazette
September 7, 2007

Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum, presents "Rocket" Richard: The Legend - The Legacy, a very fitting tribute to Montreal Canadiens iconic number Maurice Richard. The exhibition comes courtesy of the Canadian Museum of Civilization and features 100 objects of hockey memorabilia, including jerseys, milestone sticks and pucks, trophies, skates, the original copy of his retirement speech, and NHL contracts. While hockey fans can step to the front of the line, the exhibition offers a little something for everyone. So what's a hockey exhibition doing at a train museum? "We have the environment that the Canadiens would have travelled in during the time of Rocket Richard," said Kevin Robinson, Exporail's coordinator of programming. Robinson is referring to the Neville Sleeper, which was built by CP at the Angus shops in 1921 and stayed in service until 1967. "The railways were the key link to travel in those days," Robinson said. "Everyone from Elvis to Elizabeth Taylor travelled by train back then - even the Montreal Canadiens. The transition to airplanes didn't happen until the sixties." Robinson offers another fun trivia fact to tie in the exhibition - that Richard worked as a machinist at Angus Shops during his twenties before his hockey days. CP employees always knew when the Canadiens had a road trip, he added. "They added extra sleeper cars just for the Canadiens," Robinson said. "The porters, conductors, the station agents, all the employees would do their best to make sure the train was spic and span and on time. They were very proud of the Canadiens." The exhibition continues until Nov. 17.

VIA's Toronto to Stratford Services Take Centre Stage

TORONTO - VIA Rail's Toronto to Stratford services are just the ticket for an entertaining getaway to one of the regions preeminent theatre centres. And there's still plenty of time in the season to catch some of the critically acclaimed theatre productions at this year's Stratford Festival. With matinee and evening performances to choose from, combined with VIA's flexible Windsor-Québec City corridor schedule, theatre enthusiasts can make it a one-day or weekend getaway trip.

Using VIA's Toronto to Stratford services, theatre-goers can choose from a number of packages offered at trainpackages.ca . or plan their own getaway. Consider a "same day return trip" to include a matinee and dinner. For those with a little more time to spare, make it an overnight trip to include one or more plays, a stay-over in the picturesque town of Stratford, dinner and brunch. Use the added time to take a leisurely stroll through Stratfords's beautiful gardens or admire the graceful swans as they float along the river. There's even a wide assortment of trendy and tasty boutique shops along the main street. The possibilities are endless.

With VIA in the driver's seat, you're free to be the director of your trip.

Some of the acclaimed productions featured at this year's Stratford Festival until November 4, 2007 include:

• King Lear
• Oklahoma
• The Merchant of Venice
• To Kill a Mockingbird
• An Ideal Husband

For a complete listing of the 2007 Stratford Theatre production schedule visit stratford-festival.on.ca .

As Canada's national passenger rail service, VIA Rail Canada's mandate is to provide efficient, environmentally responsible and cost effective passenger transportation services, both in Canada's business corridor and in remote and rural regions of the country. VIA serves more than 450 communities with a network of inter-city, transcontinental and regional trains. Demand continues to grow, as more Canadians turn to train travel as a hassle-free and cost-efficient alternative to congested roads and airports. For information regarding any VIA product or service, please visit viarail.ca , call 1 888 VIA RAIL (842-7245), TTY 1 800 268-9503 (hearing impaired), or contact your travel agent.

Savings for Students of all Ages - including Comfort Sleeper special

MONTREAL - With back-to-school jingles and sales beginning, students are budgeting their hard-earned summer funds with a year full of activities in mind. Students of all ages can take advantage of savings and fare discounts available with VIA Rail Canada throughout the school year. With discounts and plenty of departures from university/college towns served by VIA's Windsor-Québec City Corridor services, travelling by train makes cents.

Here are a number of ways students can take advantage of VIA savings:

The ISIC Card (International Student Identity Card) is recognized around the world. It is the only student ID card recognized by VIA which entitles students 18 years of age or older to save 35% on individual Comfort class (Economy) fares throughout Canada, as well as savings on other classes. No advance purchase is required, and there are no service charges! Student fares are available for all trains and all destinations year round. Just present your ISIC wherever VIA tickets are sold.

Being a student often means having to travel frequently between the same two cities - between home and college/university, for example. And being a student often means your travel budget is tight. The VIA 6 pak makes the grade for students with savings of 50% on the purchase of three round-trip tickets between the same two stations! A valid ISIC card is required to obtain the VIA 6 pak and to book your tickets.

Recent graduates, or students not registered in school full-time, can also benefit from savings when travelling with VIA Rail. If you are between 18 and 25, VIA's newly created Youth Fare provides:

• 25% discount in Comfort class (economy)
• 10% discount in sleeper class (including Totem and Totem Deluxe classes)
• 10% discount on Canrailpass, Corridorpass, and the North America Rail Pass

Photo ID with proof of age is required at the time of ticket purchase and must also be presented on board the train upon request.

A Commuter Pass is also extremely handy. Students can choose between two convenient passes, both of which are valid within a chosen zone in southern Québec or southwestern Ontario.

• The monthly commuter pass gives travellers unlimited travel between the same two stations for one calendar month, starting on the first day of the month and ending on the last day.
• The 10 round-trip Commuter Pass is valid for ten round trips between the same two stations within a 30-day period, starting on the first day you use it.

Want to send the new student off with something special? VIA's Gift Card - is the perfect gift that keeps on giving. Gift cards can be used to purchase any VIA product, including travel passes, which offer guaranteed savings throughout the country. There's a gift card for every budget: available in $25, $50 and $100 units or choose the Flexi card to determine yourself the exact dollar amount on the card.

VIA's "Flexi Fares" are based on one-way travel and have common conditions and restrictions throughout the VIA network. Depending on availability, Comfort class passengers may choose from Regular Fares, Discounted Fares or Supersaver Flexi Fares . VIA's Supersaver fares offer a deep discount representing great value for money to travellers who do not foresee the need to make changes to their tickets, once purchased. Discounted fares , offer discounts with some flexibility and are the choice for budget-minded customers who want to be able to make changes to their plans, if required. Passengers who want complete flexibility with no service charges for changes or cancellations will appreciate VIA's Regular Fares . For more information visit viarail.ca/flexifares .

Students can visit VIA's dedicated website at viacampus.ca to order a VIA 6 pak, review schedules or simply connect with other student travellers. For a complete listing of train departures, fares, or information on any VIA product or service please call 1888 VIA-RAIL (842-7245), TTY 1 800 268-9503 (hearing impaired), visit VIA's website viarail.ca , or contact your travel agent. Passengers can also book their tickets at VIA kiosks located in major Corridor stations. Students can also sign up for VIA's Student e-Letter to receive updates on contests, promotions and other savings.

TRACKS LESS TRAVELLED:
Fall colours package tour from Toronto featuring the White River-Sudbury VIA Rail route

When exploring one of VIA Rail's least known routes, it helps if the tour guide happens to have written the book on passenger trains in Canada. As I joined around 40 curious travelers and rail buffs in Toronto's Union Station last fall, my brain hadn't yet connected the tour leader -- Winnipeg-based Daryl Adair -- with the “Canadian Rail Travel Guide,” a train-fan bible. During our five-day trip to Sudbury and the remote Ontario town of White River, Adair would be the target of endless questions -- both basic and obscure -- about trains and railroad towns.

Quite a few scheduled passenger rail routes crisscross northern Ontario -- including the Algoma Central Railway, the Northlander and Polar Bear Express. However their schedules and routes do not mesh well. The “Superior Colours of Ontario” package from Rail Travel Tours includes sections of the world-famous “Canadian” route as well as VIA's isolated “Lake Superior” service. The latter train, really a pair of self-propelled rail cars with no locomotive, heads west from Sudbury's classic downtown train depot three days a week into a wilderness few have seen.

Although July may seem early to think about fall colours, Adair brings leaf-peepers on the route only when September turns to October, and the tour must be booked and paid by July 27.

Following tracks last used by transcontinental passenger trains in 1991, the modest “Lake Superior” doesn't actually touch that Great Lake, but does voyage through 500 kilometers of sparsely populated territory.

Getting to Capreol near Sudbury takes about seven hours aboard the “Canadian” -- a refined way to travel deep into Ontario's boreal forest. VIA's cross-country run ought to be a required national pilgrimage, one that citizens try to make at least once in their lifetime. Perched in dome car seats, we pass through long corridors of fiery red maples.

The “Lake Superior” is an entirely different experience -- this working train serves an almost-forgotten frontier. Hunters, anglers and fans of the Canadian Shield rely on the pair of self-contained “Budd” cars to stop at cabins, canoe put-ins along rivers or lakes as well as several northern settlements that are accessed only by rail. And on the cusp of winter, the bush turns out its finest hues.

The changing leaves of birch and poplar tend to yellow and orange. Maples are more scattered here so the forest shows a subtler palate, but there are still vibrant reds -- just closer to the earth. Turning blueberry bushes and other ground-hugging plants serve up striking crimsons, while the bright berries of Mountain Ash trees shine orange or red.

Part of train travel includes the friendly ritual of getting to know your fellow passengers -- where they're from, what exotic rails they've ridden. But the real exploration begins when pressed up against the window, gazing at forest and water for long periods, in silence.

This also happens to be the way to glimpse wildlife. Some birds linger as we pass, and the observant among us will first spot foraging moose or bear. Since the train's engines can startle inhabitants of the rail-side marshes and bogs, it's often the engineer who gets the message back to riders before the beasts flee from sight.

This package is about a love of train travel and far-reaching woods. If you associate rail tours with fancy meals and well-appointed staterooms, there are many other possibilities at the VIA Rail-sponsored website www.trainpackages.ca .

The forests along the route inspire tranquility; and yet these tracks move huge loads of freight across the continent. Long-distance train passengers should put away wristwatches and printed schedules during the first wait in a siding while a two-kilometer-long freight rumbles by.

The furthest point west for the “Lake Superior” is White River, where the Canadian Pacific rails meet up with the Trans-Canada highway. This small northern town's modest attractions are outshone by the genuine welcome of its residents. If you're lucky, the mayor will stop by during an ample dinner presented by the local Historical Society and the seniors' Harmony Club. The fixations of modern life recede as you join the elders of White River in a piano-led sing-along.

While at the station before the next day's return to Sudbury, expect a reenactment of Canadian army Lieutenant Harry Colebourn buying a soon-to-be famous black bear cub while passing through White River in 1914. "Winnie" would later reside in the London Zoo and inspire author A.A. Milne to write his series of beloved children's books.

The tour's time in Sudbury brings home Canada's profound reliance on resource extraction. Situated on the long-flattened remains of a massive meteorite that left much copper and nickel -- and wealth -- Sudbury impresses not with big-city delights but a reputation for hard work, deep mines and its impressive greening of former wasteland.

A mining museum might appear a hard sell to train-and-tree fans, but the partly underground complex called Dynamic Earth wins over skeptics. It's a glimpse of the Sudbury area's 5,000 kilometers of tunnels -- plus a chance to stand under that famously huge five-cent piece, the Big Nickel. Both a compelling history lesson and belowground industrial tour, the museum is effective and real -- right down to the hard hats required during the tour of clammy (and mercifully shallow) former mines. 

Ed Drass is a freelance transportation columnist and writer based in Toronto. His trip was subsidized by Rail Travel Tours.

A window on Canada from Train No. 1
VIA Rail's cross-country service on The Canadian showcases the magnificence of our land;

Mary K Nolan . The Spectator . Hamilton, Ont.: Aug 11, 2007 . pg. D.4

Copyright (c) 2007 Metroland Media Group Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Canada 's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, a slight amendment is in order.

The document in Pierre Trudeau's Constitution Act of 1982 that guarantees certain democratic, legal, mobility and equality rights should be modified to include the right to travel across this country's pure, spectacular breadth by train.

At government expense, of course.

Every Canadian should have the opportunity to ride The Canadian, Via Rail's Toronto-Vancouver route through the forests of Northern Ontario , the serenity of the Prairies, the majesty of the mountains and out to the sea.

It is an eye-opening, awe-inspiring journey that illustrates, as nothing else possibly can, the magnitude and magnificence of a land so often taken for granted, even disparaged, by its own people.

As for new Canadians, forget about making them swear allegiance to the Queen. Put them on the train instead. Guaranteed, the trip will inspire more devotion and patriotism to their adopted homeland than pledging undying fealty to a foreign monarch.

Although Via's network extends from coast to coast, each route offering its own unique beauty, The Canadian is Train No. 1. It says so right there on the ticket -- Via 001 -- just to the left of the part that shows an arrival date three full days after departure. And that's from Toronto , not Atlantic to Pacific. It takes nearly 30 hours just to get out of Ontario .

"Take lots of books," warn the well-intentioned. " Northern Ontario is nothing but trees. And the prairies, well, it's a long way to the mountains."

That's how the uninitiated think, says Catherine Kaloutsky, the railway's senior public affairs officer. When her own husband, Dan, was preparing for his first trip on The Canadian from Winnipeg to Toronto , he got busy packing up his bookbag. He'd be on the train for two days, he reasoned, and wanted something to stave off the inevitable boredom.

"You're not going to need them," Kaloutsky told him. If it is unwise to argue with a woman, it is doubly so when that woman has made the trip more times than she can count in 30 years with Via. He did not open the books.

"The allure of being on the train and the frame of mind it puts you in, when you're away from all distractions and the only thing to see is what's outside the window ... people discount the power of that," she explains. "It's like a drug. It hypnotizes you."

The tranquilizing effect begins almost as soon as the train pulls out of Union Station. There is no fanfare as it lurches slightly and, almost imperceptibly, starts to move, but the excitement is tangible. Whether in a Comfort class seat or the luxurious Silver & Blue class, passengers share a sense of adventure, of setting out to explore the wild frontiers as Simon Fraser and David Thompson did, after whom two of the West's great rivers are named. This is not so much transportation to a destination as the destination itself.

Passengers squeeze past each other in the narrow passageways to check out the dining car, activity car, the bar, the dome cars, the shower rooms, the Park car, the compartments with the wee sinks and the Pullman beds, made up invitingly with squishy pillows and fluffy duvets.

This train is 636 metres long with three engines and 30 cars, most of which are stainless steel, stock built in the 1950s and restored to their original elegance. The distinctively shaped "bullet lounge" is in the Park car, at the very end of the train, where newspapers, fresh fruit, snacks and beverages are available 24 hours a day.

The dining car, where meals are served in two sittings at tables of four, is set with linens and flowers. Lunch might be a salmon quiche, and dinner, a grilled Portobello mushroom or prime rib of beef with Greek salad and chocolate torte cake. It is all excellent.

Passengers are seated as they arrive, which means that couples or singles sit with strangers at every meal. It's awkward at first, especially when tablemates don't speak the same language. But before many miles are out, there are no strangers, just new acquaintances to be made.

There's Heidi and Manfred from Bonn , taking the train to Vancouver to board an Alaskan cruise ship. Christian, a river engineer from Switzerland , is meeting his girlfriend in Calgary and then going on to Vancouver . A Canadian Armed Forces navy man is moving with his wife and two children to British Columbia from Ontario .

The Chaudrys from Delhi have been in Toronto visiting their grandchildren, and are heading for Vancouver , San Francisco and Los Angeles before returning to Toronto by Amtrak. Richard from Sudbury "used to be one of those kayak-canoe guys who got on for a fish." (It's a little more complicated than that, but outdoor adventurers can arrange to have the train stop in the middle of nowhere to pick them up, toss their canoe in the baggage car, and drop them off down the line.)

It doesn't take long to identify the train weenies -- they're the passengers, usually men, equipped with radios tuned to the railroad frequencies and loud voices that ensure everybody else knows how much they know. Simultaneously entertaining and obnoxious, these guys park themselves in the middle of the observation cars and hold forth about trains, but they do seem to know their stuff.

Passengers busy themselves with books or knitting, cards, cocktails or conversation. Many succumb to the relaxing rhythm and gentle swaying, and nod off where they sit.

Some hop off the train to buy wild blueberries in the junction town of Capreol or stretch their legs in Sioux Lookout, the Hub of the North.

In Winnipeg , there's time to visit The Forks Market, tour The Winnipeg Railway Museum or admire the Beaux-Arts architecture of the 1911 station, famous for its domed rotunda.

At Portage la Prairie, the train passes the world's largest Coke can, an old water tower next to the Canadian Tire.

A cluster of desperate smokers forms on the platform at every stop, but time is short. This is a working train, and there are timetables to follow, even when The Canadian has to yield the right of way to a freight train.

The scenery is the thing on The Canadian. It's as if the pages of every glossy coffee-table book about Canada are flipping by the window, just one intoxicating image after another.

Far from boring, the forests are tall and mysterious, alive with unseen eyes looking out from the depths at the silver tube rocketing by. The lakes are liquid mirrors, broken only by the rippling wake of a lonely loon or the long legs of a disinterested moose. The prairies, humbling in their vastness, are brilliant with fields of blazing yellow canola, blue flax and bales of golden hay. At night, the sky is dripping with stars, like diamonds being poured from some celestial ladle.

And then, the mountains, jagged shards of sedimentary rock jutting competitively into the sky.

They are heart-stopping, breathtaking, every synonym for "awesome" that Roget's contains. To a Hamiltonian, whose mountain is just a drive up the hill, these massive moody peaks are a little claustrophobic, frightening even. They demand to be marvelled at, dare the observer not to be stupefied by their power. Some are striped, like Joseph's coat, with strata of colours, others cloaked in capes of white snow or bisected with streaming cascades.

"You start to appreciate the profound beauty that is in this country," says Kaloutsky, the daughter of a railroader. "Canadians become very patriotic -- this is clean, it's pristine and it's ours. The tourists simply can't find words for it."

Winter on the train, she says, is equally romantic and magical.

"Going across the prairies, there's nothing on those fields but snow, and it goes on forever," she says. "And when you get off the train, it's crisp and clear, it's fresh air. You can smell the pine, and there's no Air Wick that can create that sense."

Kaloutsky and her husband are going on holidays next month -- on The Canadian.

"I've seen it 100 times before," she says," but it still captivates me, it still fascinates me. I can still sit there and look out the window for eight hours."

Mary K. Nolan travelled on The Canadian as a guest of Via Rail.

mnolan@thespec.com

905-526-4689

IF YOU GO

The Canadian departs Toronto every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Reservations can be made through a travel agent, at viarail.com, by phone at 1-888-VIA-RAIL or at any Via station.

Approximate off-season fares from mid-October through May range from $563 for a reclining Comfort class seat to $1,469 per person double for a Silver & Blue class double bedroom and all meals. The range is approximately $750 to $1,958 in peak season.

Take a fleece throw, travel pillow, slippers, a journal for notes and a copy of Canadian Rail Travel Guide by Daryl T. Adair (Fitzhenry &Whiteside, $23.95).

Credit: The Hamilton Spectator

Railcar worth of memories

July 13, 2007
Sudbury Star

Andonetta Cariati got her formal education in Canada at a rolling school during its monthly rail stops between Capreol and Foleyet, ON, in the 1950s. Cariati was flooded by memories as she stepped onto a replica of the school car unveiled Thursday at the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre in Capreol. The long, green rail car is separated into sections - bedroom, kitchen, living room and classroom. About half a dozen desks line the sides of the classroom, and a teacher's desk is set up at the front of the room complete with typewriter and globe. Cariati and her brother and sister went to classes on the train when they lived in Anstice, up the line from Capreol, for about five years. About once a month, the school car would roll into town and children of section men would learn from teacher Fred Sloman. He taught students along the rail line for four decades. Another former student, Tony Bevilacqua, also came out to see the train Thursday. He remembers going to the mobile school for a few years when he was a boy living in Ruel, about 50 miles up the line. "They would leave you a bunch of homework and come back three weeks or a month later. That's the way it went. They had other pit stops to make down the line," Bevilacqua said. Stu Thomas, president of the museum's board, said they are pleased with the newly converted school car. "We hope it's something people will come to see and walk away with a memory of," Thomas said. "It's something that a lot of people really don't know about." He said the museum is planning an expansion. "Our next project will be the development of the box car house," he said. Thomas said they have at least five more pieces of "rolling stock" that they plan to move on to the site at Prescott Park. It will require a track expansion and a switch so the cars can be moved around.

Steam engine running

Stratford Beacon-Herald
July 6, 2007

The 1923 locomotive that thrilled riders and spectators when it rolled through southwestern Ontario in 2003 could be back this fall now that repairs have been successfully completed. Roy Broadbear, president of the Southern Ontario Locomotive Restoration Society, said the engine has been recertified and was out on Monday for a test run. The engine was in need of bearing repairs. "We're good to go," he said. The not-for-profit organization based in St. Thomas brought the Essex Terminal Railway No. 9 steam locomotive to Stratford in 2003 for trips between St. Marys and Goderich. Broadbear said he expects the engine to be on the tracks in September for passenger trips in the area, but that still depends on agreement with the Goderich Exeter Railway, and he added managers of the company are hard to find. Company employees and staff are very much in support, he said. Meanwhile, a new tourist train operated by the society between Waterloo and St. Jacobs is up and running. An official grand opening of the Waterloo Central Railway, which is owned and operated by the Southern Ontario Locomotive Restoration Society is planned for early July, the society said in a release.

VIA Rail launches interactive online contest

Canada NewsWire
July 5, 2007

VIA Rail Canada recently launched a new microsite, beatthecar.ca, to host a contest aimed at 18-35 year olds. The contest website allows people from across Canada to edit VIA Rail's print 2007 Summer Campaign advertisements by creating new ones of their own design. Contestants have till September 5 to select any of four VIA Rail posters and easily edit its caption, photograph or both with no prior design experience needed. Created with an easy-to-use interface, the site will enable novice and expert Internet users alike to join in the fun and have the chance to win one of three big prizes. User-created advertisements will be posted to the site and made available for others to rate and share with friends. Identical prizes will be awarded for the most popular English and French advertisements.

All aboard!

CanWest News Service
Vancouver Sun
John Mackie
July 3, 2007

British Columbia is filled with all sorts of natural wonders. Mountains! Ocean! Big trees! But there's a lot of man-made wonders as well.

One of the best is Royal Alexandra Hall, the centrepiece of the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel in Cranbrook. Heritage Canada recently gave the museum its top award for the restoration of the hall, which dates to 1906.

The 252-square-metre space is an Edwardian masterpiece. It boasts a curved ceiling that's 6.9 metres at its peak, oak beams, oak panelling, skylights, and amazing arts and crafts chandeliers.

What's really amazing, though, is that the entire room comes from Winnipeg.

The hall was once the cafe at Winnipeg's Royal Alexandra Hotel, one of the biggest, grandest hotels ever built in Canada. It was constructed by the Canadian Pacific Railway when Winnipeg was the "gateway to the West," the main entry point for the settlement of western Canada. With 450 rooms, the Royal Alex was the equivalent to the Empress Hotel in Victoria or the Hotel Vancouver -- a state-of-the-art facility with several showpiece restaurants and ballrooms.

Attached to the CPR station in Winnipeg, the Royal Alex initially was the centrepiece of Winnipeg society. But it was built in a poor area of town and when air travel took off in the '50s and '60s, it fell on hard times. The CPR closed it in 1967; in 1971 it was torn down.

Much of the hotel was sold off at auction, but the Royal Alex's fabulous ballrooms and restaurants went down with the building -- except the cafe, which was then called the Selkirk Dining Room.

A Winnipeg couple named Allan and Donni Stern decided to save it, hiring master carpenter Richard Pohl to take it apart, piece by piece. Demolition of the building was delayed by a month so the cafe could be taken apart and each piece was numbered for reassembly.

The Sterns' plan was to resurrect the room as a clock museum on land they owned across from historic Lower Fort Garry, just north of Winnipeg. But the Manitoba government expropriated the land and the museum was never built.

The cafe sat around in a semi-trailer for a quarter of a century before it was sold to antique dealer Ernie Streit on Vancouver Island. The Cranbrook museum's director Garry Anderson heard about it, and was intrigued. It was a historic CPR hotel and the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel focuses on CPR material.

Cranbrook is a CPR town -- it grew around the railway when the Crowsnest Pass line was established in 1898 and the CPR railyard there is still booming.

Anderson went to Shawnigan Lake, where Streit had rebuilt part of the cafe.

"It was a very magical moment: I decided that this was the perfect context for that room, at this museum," he says. The museum bought the cafe for $138,000, which Anderson says "was about the price of the cafe's eight chandeliers. The rest of the room came along with it."

Cranbrook's then-MLA Erda Walsh helped the museum get a provincial grant to rebuild the cafe in a new museum building in downtown Cranbrook. It took a couple of years and over $500,000 to put the hall back up. It has become one of Cranbrook's favourite spots, hosting 50 to 60 events annually

Visitors to the museum get a tour of the hall, along with a look at a six-metre-high oak fireplace that also came from the Royal Alex. The tour also includes a look at several vintage passenger railcars that are in the museum's collection, including the art nouveau Soo-Spokane Deluxe and the Trans-Canada Limited, an art deco CPR train with seven cars.

Donni Stern travelled from Winnipeg to Cranbrook for the opening of Royal Alexandra Hall. She was touched by the affection Cranbrook residents have developed for the old cafe.

"When they had the opening in Cranbrook, it was very emotional," she says. "It was very humbling to know that we had done something that changed an entire town."

For Cranbrook information, go to: www.britishcolumbia.com/regions/towns/index.asp?townID3485

© The Edmonton Journal 2007

Give into the summer spirit... and travel!

Taste new vintages in Canada's wine country

Gastronomy, tastings, vineyards suffused with sunshine... In the Niagara region, irresistible temptations abound . VIA Rail and Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate are offering winelovers like you a unique experience. Visit the estate and show your VIA Préférence membership card to be invited to a winery tour and tasting of Proprietor's Reserve wines. More...


Flock to the Niagara region for sunshine... and wine

You always say that you'd like to go. Or maybe it's been too long a time since your last visit. Either way, the Niagara region looms in your mind - and why not? Niagara Falls is just one of the stunning spectacles in a tourist region full of pleasures and treasures to discover. So go this summer! Thanks to VIA's new - and convenient - summer schedule , the Niagara region is more accessible than ever. More...



A relaxing interlude at Ste. Anne's Spa

Be kind to your body and give yourself the Innkeepers' Delight package at Ste. Anne's Country Inn & Spa, located in charming Cobourg, Ontario. With an exclusive offer for VIA Préférence members , you can book a package starting at just $299 per day that includes accommodations, meals, and treatments. More...


An earthly paradise awaits:
The Garden Route and International Flora Montréal

Give into temptation... Take advantage of VIA's hot summer offers to discover millions of exceptionally beautiful blooms at International Flora in Montréal or anywhere along the VIA Rail Garden Route between Victoria and Halifax. Each garden, bursting with creatively arranged plants, shrubs, and blooms, is a secret world waiting to be discovered. More


VIA Rail takes you where you want to go... at a price you'll love

There's nothing like travel to recharge your batteries... Especially when you choose the more human way to travel. This summer, VIA Rail is making it easier than ever before to see this vast country, with offers that will have you packing your bags right away!

Discover British Columbia's spectacular vistas and awesome wilderness

VANCOUVER - Embarking on a two-day adventure through the majestic mountains and untouched countryside, VIA Rail Canada's Skeena service takes passengers from the heart of the Rockies to the shores of the Pacific in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Ideal for leaf peepers or travellers looking to explore a new frontier, VIA's Skeena service allows riders to enjoy the changing landscape and picturesque vistas without sacrificing amenities or service.

The Skeena departs three times per week year round, in each direction. From mid-May through September, travellers can choose between Comfort class or VIA's premium Totem Class services. When travelling in Totem Class , featured from May 13 to September 30, passengers enjoy regional cuisine served at their spacious, reclining seats and exclusive access to the Park Car with its 360-degree scenic dome, Mural and Bullet Lounges. For optimum viewing pleasure and at a small additional fee, passengers can upgrade to Totem Deluxe Class , which allows passengers to reserve a seat in the panoramic domed car.

Travellers will be awed by the magnificent scenery along the route including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies; British Columbia's lush Skeena River Valley and the giant cedars and hemlocks that line the western slope of the Pacific Coastal mountain range. As for the wildlife - from deer and moose to bears and birds - you'll want to have your camera in hand at all times. And, since the train covers the entirety of its 725-mile journey during daylight hours - the train stops in Prince George overnight to break up the trip - passengers won't miss a single glimpse of northern British Columbia's spectacular landscape.

Other highlights along the Skeena 's route include:

• Jasper , Alberta attracts visitors from around the globe and is one of Canada's most picturesque places. Summer activities include hiking and mountain biking opportunities, and winter brings top-notch skiing and outdoor snow sports. With awe-inspiring natural wonders like Maligne Canyon, Sunwapta Falls, Mount Edith Cavell and Miette Hot Springs, Jasper National Park contains some of the most remarkable landscapes in the world. The largest park in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park is also a wildlife sanctuary perfect for viewing all kinds of animals in their natural habitats.
  
  
• Prince George , where the Skeena stops overnight, is a beautiful city located in some of Canada's densest forests. Not surprisingly, the city is one with nature, as over 100 parks can be found within city limits ! Prince George also offers several fascinating museums, such as the Fraser Fort George Regional Museum , a hands-on natural history and science center featuring "Adventure Theatre", an in-depth history of the region's human culture, and various other activities.
  
  
• As the train arrives at its final stop: the coastal city of Prince Rupert , travellers will be struck by the numbers of bald eagles resting in the harbour and surrounding area. Built in 1889, the North Pacific Historic Fishing Village features tours and live performances that provide an entertaining look at life in a cannery village. The Museum of Northern B.C. house magnificent architecture of a Northwest Coast longhouse and exhibits that portray the history and culture dating back to the end of the last ice age. Visitors to Prince Rupert also have the option of taking a day trip to the Khutzeymateen Valley , Canada's only grizzly bear sanctuary.

VIA's Skeena departs Jasper every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and provides same-day connection with VIA's eastbound Canadian enroute to Toronto. An overnight stay in Jasper is required for travellers connecting from VIA's westbound Canadian.

It's not too late to explore the supernatural beauty of British Columbia by planning for an August or September getaway. For tour programs that showcase Totem Class aboard VIA Rail's Skeena train, please visit the package section of VIA Rail's website at viarail.ca/packages , and select "The Skeena" from the drop-down menu in the "VIA Rail Trains Featured" section. To find activities in the regions visited by the Skeena , please visit VIA's website at viarail.ca/events for details.

Customers can visit VIA's secure website at viarail.ca to book a trip anywhere in the VIA system, or by calling 888-VIA RAIL (842-7245) or TTY 800 268-9503 (hearing impaired) or through their travel agent.

As Canada's national passenger rail service, VIA Rail connects the entire world to the West's vibrant tourism industry. With more than 700 employees in Western Canada, VIA is dedicated to improving the quality of passenger service. From Northern Manitoba, across Saskatchewan and Alberta, to British Columbia's Pacific Rim, VIA serves more than 100 communities. VIA continues to develop, market and deliver services to meet the needs of Western Canadians, in partnership with the people, communities and businesses served by passenger rail.

Media Contacts:
Catherine Kaloutsky
Corporate Communications
416 956-7683
catherine_kaloutsky@viarail.ca

Aurelio Macaraeg
Sales
604 640-3746
aurelio_macaraeg@viarail.ca

Riding the Polar Bear Express
Into the heart of Canada

KAREN ZAGOR
Special to The Globe and Mail
June 23, 2007

The bleakness of the northern landscape can be stunningly beautiful from the comfortable confines of a gently rocking train, Karen Zagor writes

As the train pulled out of the Cochrane, Ont., station at 8:30 in the morning, we made a beeline for the dining car. Our empty stomachs were grumbling after an inedible meal at the hotel the night before. My husband, Eric, was grumpy from lack of caffeine. Our two children, Arianna, 9, and Emma, 6, could talk about nothing but bacon. We were all starting to wonder whether this trip was a good idea.

We were riding the Polar Bear Express last August to give our children a taste of life north of the 50th parallel, where most of our nation's land mass and much of our history is to be found.

The train starts at Cochrane, northwest of Sudbury, and from there it travels through 300 kilometres of empty northern wilderness to Moosonee on the Moose River, a mere 15 kilometres south of James Bay.

At first sight, Cochrane isn't much different from any other town in Northern Ontario. There's the requisite Tim Hortons, the string of motels along Highway 11, the slightly dreary sense that time, money and the gentrifying influence of the middle class have all passed the town by.

As the train picked up speed and started to rumble and rattle along the tracks, I watched the children succumb to the magic of train travel. They revelled in looking out the window and in trying to walk between the seats without stumbling as the train rocked.

Food tastes better on a train, especially if it's served on a china plate in the dining car. Arianna wolfed down her bacon and eggs. Emma ate every piece of her French toast.

Then they wandered, first to the bathrooms, which were remarkably clean, then to the observation car, to our seats to pick up toys and back to the dining car, while Eric and I drank our coffee, talked and watched the forest roll by.

As forest gave way to muskeg, Jennifer, the train's appointed tour guide, gave us a potted history lesson and pointed out landmarks. We found the train staff cheery and helpful; most were university or college students from the area.

There isn't a lot to see out the window of the Polar Bear Express. And that, in a way, is the point of the journey. There are no roads to Moosonee, only the rail line, which was built in 1931. And the tracks have spawned no towns or hamlets. Instead, there is the occasional derailed boxcar or hunter's shack surrounded by a vast wilderness, looking much as it must have appeared to the native people of the area and European explorers hundreds of years ago.

About 200 kilometres south of Moosonee, there is the Otter Rapids dam and generating plant on the Abitibi River. After that, nothing but trees. As the train headed north, the trees grew smaller. Jennifer explained that this is not new-growth forest; the black spruces are actually more than 150 years old, stunted and withered by the malnutrition of thin soil and muskeg. We settled into tables in the observation car to read and watch the trees while the children played cards. When we arrived at Moosonee, a mere half-hour behind schedule, none of us wanted to get off the train.

Moosonee feels very much like a frontier town, its main street not much more than a wide, rough road with a church, a school, a supermarket and a sprinkling of unpretentious restaurants.

It was the first Canadian outpost of Revillon Frères, the Parisian fur trading company that tried to take on the Hudson's Bay Company a hundred years ago. Revillon is famous for putting Moosonee on the fur trading map and for commissioning the movie Nanook of the North in the 1920s, before being bought out by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1936. There is a small museum with exhibits about Revillon and the fur trade right at the Moosonee train station. Eric and I enjoyed the photographs and the dramatic stories about life in the settlement. The girls, who have a collection of stuffed animal toys at home, stared fixedly at a real rabbit skin on a stretcher, declared it "gross" and walked out.

We wandered down to the Moose River and got a freighter-canoe water taxi for the 10-minute ride to the Cree island of Moose Factory, the main trading post for the Hudson's Bay Company in 1673. The staff house built in 1847 is still standing, as are a number of other company buildings, including the blacksmith's shop from the 1740s and the wooden Anglican church from 1864.

Our night at the Cree Village Ecolodge proved a good respite from sightseeing. Everyone loved the smell of cedar and the floor-to-ceiling windows in the airy, A-frame dining room.

I'm not sure the girls learned much about Cree culture - instead of the promised native cuisine in the hotel restaurant, the menu was composed of Caesar salads, steaks and burgers (evidently members of the local community get enough native cuisine at home and want something different when they eat out). And with the exception of tamarack geese, the native crafts on sale seemed similar to those we saw at every trading post along Route 11. Still, I hope that when they study aboriginal cultures and European explorers in Grade 6, the memory of this trip will help them.

The next day, we were up early to catch the Polar Princess as part of our "Wilderness Excursion" package, run by Two Bay Tours. We couldn't resist the offer of "a breathtaking cruise to the southern tip of James Bay." After all, we were here to explore Arctic waters.

Once again, we were struck by the emptiness and the absence of human imprint on the landscape.

"There's virtually no marine traffic any more," Captain Jim Flarity said. "You don't have to be out far in a small boat before you lose sight of land, and it can get dicey if you have a problem."

The river was placid on the day of our trip, but Flarity said that "it can get nasty at the mouth of the river in the fall. Twenty-foot seas are not uncommon when there's a good wind on the bay."

He steered the Polar Princess around a string of mud flats to Ship Sands Island, at the mouth of James Bay. The girls were not particularly interested in pretending to be 17th-century explorers; they were happy enough to eat their sandwiches and watch the water and birds go by. But they were thrilled to pick up their certificates saying they had "braved the spray of James Bay and been sprinkled with the salt of the Arctic waters." Eric and I were also thrilled by the very notion that we had seen into James Bay and been to the historical heart of modern Canada.

Back at Moose Factory, we thought about skipping the tour, but our guide, John Romanow, was so engaging and informative that we decided to revisit the sites with him. He and his wife taught school in Moosonee when they were first married. After their children were born, they moved down to Huntsville but brought their family north every summer. This year, two of their three children were working with their parents at the tour company.

Our own children could not wait to get back on the train, where our dinner of fried chicken washed down with mediocre wine pleased us to no end. In the observation car, we sat transfixed as sheet lightning lit up the forests around us before plunging us back into darkness. Living in one of Canada's crowded and growing cities, it is easy to forget the vast wilderness that in some ways still defines Canada. It was an eerie but pleasant sensation to be on this small, bright train filled with people while the world around us was empty and black.

I'm not sure we would bring our children up to Moosonee every summer, but I would like to bring them again when they are older, if the Polar Bear Express is still running. Many of the people we spoke to at Moosonee and Moose Factory expressed concern that the passenger train service might be cut. Some blamed the strong Canadian dollar. Some blamed the new U.S. passport requirements. Some blamed Ontario Northland for cutting back on marketing. All agreed that tourism had dropped off precipitously in recent years. So, for those looking for a relatively easy and inexpensive northern adventure, my advice is to go soon. It may not be so easy in the future.

Pack your bags

The Polar Bear Express runs every day except Monday from June 29 through Aug. 31. This year, the train has added a family car with movies, games and crafts. And on Friday, July 6, a visit by Santa Claus will be the highlight of a day of caroling, crafts and turkey dinner with all the trimmings. For more information, call 1-800-268-9281, visit http://www.polarbearexpress.ca or e-mail busrail@ontc.on.ca .

Cree Village Ecolodge 1-888-273-3929 or (705) 658-6400; frontdesk@creevillage.com ; http://www.creevillage.com .

Two Bay Tours (705) 336-2944; guide@twobay.com ; http://www.twobay.com .

Best Western Swan Castle Inn (705) 272-5200 or 1-800-265-3668.

VIA Rail Has Your Ticket to Experience the Best of the Region

TORONTO - With the flexibility to create your own getaway, VIA Rail Canada's Niagara Falls summer schedule provides a stress-free travel alternative to busy highway congestion. From June 4 th to September 2 nd , VIA's new seasonal service makes planning a day trip to "The Falls" or weekend getaway to discover the region's award-winning wineries a breeze. On select departures from Toronto to Niagara Falls, wine enthusiasts can relax in the comfort of VIA's Glenfraser car, sampling regional wines and cheese while gazing out at the passing landscape.

A comfortable lounge car in traditional railway décor, the Glenfraser is the perfect setting to sample cheese and some of the region's best wines courtesy of Jackson-Triggs as a contemporary music compilation plays in the background. Instead of dealing with the stress of highway driving, immerse yourself in deciding what to do first when you arrive. From the spectacular "Falls", the sights and sounds of Clifton Hill, the entertainment and thrill of the casinos to the enchantment of Niagara-On-The-Lake's Shaw Festival and the region's award-winning wineries, there's something for everyone. And VIA's summer schedule provides the flexibility to stay as long as you want.

"VIA is pleased to offer our passengers the flexibility to create an itinerary that fits their needs," said Pierre Santoni, VIA's Senior Director, National Sales. "And combined with the elegance of our Glenfraser lounge car, it's the perfect setting to kick off a relaxing weekend in one of the region's most picturesque areas."

Located minutes from picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake, Jackson-Triggs Winery offers the ultimate in wine country experience. "From our intimate guided tours and vineyard strolls," said Del Rollo, Director of Hospitality, Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate, "to epicurean events that carry over into the evening where visitors can delight in the performances hosted in the Jackson-Triggs amphitheatre, we'd be delighted to create a memorable experience for you this summer."

Once at the falls, both Niagara Airbus and Niagara Parks "People Mover" provide transportation in and around the Falls. VIA's Niagara Falls station is located within walking distance of the Niagara Parkway - an entraining point for the "People Mover". For more information visit niagaraparks.com/planavisit/peoplemover.php . For more information on Niagara Airbus schedules, tickets and reservations visit niagaraairbus.com .

VIA's Summer Toronto to Niagara Falls Schedule:

*The Glenfraser Lounge Car will run on VIA train 95, Fridays and Saturdays, and VIA train 92, on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer. Wine sampling, courtesy of Jackson-Triggs will be featured on these departures. Additional summer departures in bold .

Customers can visit VIA's secure website at viarail.ca/niagara for more information or to book their complete trip. Train tickets are available at VIA stations across Canada, including self-service ticketing kiosks located at major stations in central Canada. Passengers can also book their tickets by calling 1-888-VIA-RAIL (842-7245), TTY 1-800-268-9503 (hearing impaired) or through their travel agents.

As Canada's national passenger rail service, VIA Rail Canada's mandate is to provide efficient, environmentally responsible and cost effective passenger transportation services, both in Canada's busiest corridor and in remote and rural regions of the country. VIA serves more than 450 communities with a network of inter-city, transcontinental and regional trains. Demand continues to grow as more Canadians turn to train travel as a safe and convenient travel choice.

Media Contacts:

Catherine Kaloutsky
VIA Rail, Corporate Communications
(416) 956-7683
catherine_kaloutsky@viarail.ca

Darrell Schuurman
VIA Rail, National Sales
(416) 956-7628
darrell_schuurman@viarail.ca

Jane Holland ou Sarah Jennings
Lewis Carroll Communications
(416) 968-3845
info@lewiscarrollcom.com

Rail Travel Tours packages up the “return of steam” to Winnipeg with a weekend of rail travel featuring a trip behind CPR Locomotive Empress # 2816

Winnipeg , MB , April, 27, 2007 Rail Travel Tours packages up a weekend of scenic rail travel and Qu'Appelle Valley tour featuring a return trip to Winnipeg behind CPR's restored steam locomotive, The Empress #2816 from Broadview , Saskatchewan to Winnipeg , Manitoba .  Scheduled for Friday August 17, to Sunday August 19, 2007 for only $ 465 CDN (per person based on double occupancy) the tour begins with a ride on VIA Rail's Canadian from Winnipeg through scenic parts of Western Manitoba and into Saskatchewan .  Visit Melville , SK , with two nights hotel stay, and celebrate the cities 100th Anniversary and tour of the Qu'Appelle Valley and area attractions.  Transfer south to Broadview , SK and board the steam train for the return trip on the CPR main line to Winnipeg for a better part of the day.   For more details or to book while the limited space remains contact Rail Travel Tours in Winnipeg at 204-897-9551 as soon as possible or toll free 1-866-704-3528

Friday afternoon meet and greet at Winnipeg 's Union Station before departing on VIA's westbound Canadian.  Travel through Western Manitoba and a portion of Saskatchewan enjoying the views of the prairies, the Assiniboine Valley along the CN Mainline.  Onboard the Canadian those travelling will enjoy dinner on the train prepared by VIA Rail Chefs and the views from the dome car.  Saturday tour to the nearby Qu'Appelle Valley and visit to the town of Fort Qu'Appelle and attractions before returning to Melville to enjoy a group supper. Sunday morning will be transferring to Broadview, where the group will board the coach assigned to us pulled by Canadian Pacific Railway Steam Locomotive #2816 for the return trip to Winnipeg .   Those on the tour will be travelling on the CPR Mainline through South Western Manitoba to view Brandon, the Carberry area and more from the rails.  The train is scheduled to arrive back in Winnipeg Sunday afternoon for the end of the tour.

Rail Travel Tours, based in Winnipeg , Manitoba uses the services of Canada 's rail passenger providers, choice accommodations and attractions to create unique and original tours.  For more information, please contact Rail Travel Tours at 1-204-897-9551.

Daryl Adair
E-mail: railtraveltours@mts.net
Web: www.railtraveltours.com
Rail Travel Tours
123 Main St   -  Box 44
Winnipeg MB R3C 1A3
Direct Line: (204) 897-9551 Fax (204) 897-9572
################################

Historic BC steam engine back on track

April 16, 2007
Globe and Mail

About 5,000 more spectators lined the route from East Vancouver, through Burnaby, New Westminster, Surrey and beyond, many taking photos or holding up small children for a better look as the Royal Hudson steam engine made its first big trip in seven years - a visit to White Rock to help celebrate the city's 50th birthday. The 67-year-old locomotive pulled into the oceanfront station carrying 575 passengers. "It has been a long time coming," said 54-year-old Ken Lewis of Burnaby, standing in the open observation car for much of the two-hour journey. "It's good to see a steam engine back on the lines again and as you can see BC likes the Royal Hudson." The locomotive was rebuilt over 16 months in a $675,000 overhaul that included an extensive refit of its inner workings and a new boiler. Organizers of the 96-kilometre round-trip from Vancouver to White Rock hope to offer two more trips later this year.

All aboard for wilderness train event

April 14, 2007
Sault Star

The Algoma Central Railway will celebrate Earth Day with a three-day Coalition for Algoma Passenger Trains All-Aboard event. The Algoma Central Railway passenger train will depart Sault Ste. Marie on Earth Day, April 22, bound for the northerly terminal of Hearst where, upon a layover, passengers will be bused to Cochrane for a southerly ride aboard the Ontario Northland Railway through Temagami, North Bay and Huntsville, before arriving at Toronto's Union Station on April 24. Guides will provide commentary throughout the journey about the aboriginal and francophone cultures, the wilderness and its influence on artists such as the Group of Seven, as well as the history of the railways. As well, representatives from Searchmont, Wawa, Dubreuilville, Hearst and Cochrane, will discuss the importance of rail service to their communities and why improvements are necessary

Royal Hudson excursion will mark anniversary

April 11, 2007
Vancouver Sun

The return of the Royal Hudson will highlight White Rock's 50th anniversary celebrations on Sunday. Coordinated in partnership with the West Coast Railway Association and BNSF, the Royal Hudson excursion will take place on the exact date that White Rock became a municipality in 1957. The No. 2860 steam engine will take passengers round-trip from Vancouver to the White Rock waterfront on its first public excursion since 1999. The engine has visited White Rock twice before, first on the 25th anniversary in 1982 and then again for the 40th anniversary in 1997. White Rock will be the first destination for the Royal Hudson since it was restored by the West Coast Railway Association after an eight-year hiatus. "The Royal Hudson is a world renowned icon for British Columbia and has a great history with White Rock," said mayor Judy Forster. "Our city was built on the railway industry so it will be fitting to commemorate our golden anniversary with the arrival of the Royal Hudson." The Royal Hudson is scheduled to arrive at 12 noon, with the anniversary ceremonies occurring shortly after. The festivities will begin at 11:30am and continue until the train departs for its return to Vancouver at 3pm.

CREDIT VALLEY EXPLORER TOUR TRAIN

Special Event:

40's THEMED MURDER-MYSTERY DINNER TOUR - April 21st Dress up in your best Glenn Miller-era outfit and be part of the fun on this special charter tour. The evening starts with a welcome reception and hors d'ouvres in the station, where members of Murders Tastefully Executed will mingle with passengers and set the stage for the evening's events to unfold. Salmon or steak dinner is served on the train while the mystery unfolds, clues given and suspects questioned. Jump in and be a part of the mystery, or just sit back, be waited upon and enjoy the entertainment. Upon return to the Orangeville station, enjoy a post-tour reception and dancing to a live band playing big-band era favourites before heading home with a souvenir of the evening.

MOTHER'S DAY SUNDAY BRUNCH - May 13th
Treat Mom to brunch on the train while enjoying the constantly changing spring views from your picture window seat as the train travels through the Credit Valley. Chef Wade Plewes from David's Restaurant in Erin has created a new 4-course casual brunch menu for 2007 that is sure to please. This will be our last brunch tour until the fall, so don't miss out!

DINNER TOURS - May to September
Our summer schedule of casual dinner tours kicks off May 12th. Spend a relaxing evening with family or friends while enjoying a casual dinner during the 70km return trip through the Credit Valley. Menu selections vary by tour date, and include grilled Atlantic salmon, rotisserie chicken or grilled top sirloin. Complimentary non-alcoholic refreshments are served throughout the tour, and a cash bar is available.

Advance reservations are required for all tours. For quick and secure online reservations visit www.creditvalleyexplorer.com or call 1-888-346-0046 to make a reservation by phone. Combine your tour with a day or weekend getaway in the Headwaters region - visit www.thehillsofheadwaters.com for complete information on area events and attractions.

We look forward to seeing you on the train!
The Credit Valley Explorer Tour Train Team Orangeville Brampton Railway

New rail tours offered; city stands to benefit

March 2, 2007
Prince George Citizen

Rocky Mountaineer Vacations will be introducing two new tours next year and Prince George stands to benefit. Both tours will feature three-night stopovers as part of their stops in Quesnel and RMV is looking for operators in the region to host the visitors. "These operators could pick the guests up in Quesnel and take them back to their lodge or resort," RMV spokesperson Ian Robertson said. "So yes, this is something that operators in the Prince George area could benefit from." One tour is a 12-day circle tour that includes Whistler and Jasper and the other is a week long from Vancouver to Quesnel with a return flight or drive, and options to depart from Prince George, Bella Coola and Williams Lake. The next step will be to hold workshops in the next four to five weeks to give operators a sense of what RMV is looking for. First-year numbers from RMV's Fraser Discovery route through Quesnel and east to Jasper, drew 4,500 passengers - 900 more than expected. This year, close to 6,000 are anticipated. "We're seeing great growth," Robertson said. "I can tell you from the international travel trade segment, there's a lot of interest in this particular route and this entire region."

Railway Infrastructure Agreement Reached

For Immediate Release
March 1, 2007
Ministry of Transportation

VANCOUVER – An agreement has been reached on a railway infrastructure project that will bring in a second daily Amtrak passenger train between Seattle and Vancouver, announced Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon today. “Government is partnering with private industry and Washington State on a project that ultimately will benefit all British Columbians,” said Falcon. “This project will boost tourism dollars, reduce traffic congestion, and ease vehicle emissions on our major transportation corridors and at our
border crossings.”

A railway siding, or “passing track,” will be built on the BNSF Railway in Delta near Colebrook road. The passing track is a second section of track running parallel to the existing track, and it allows one train to move to the side, so another train can pass. The passing track is required to accommodate the operation of a second daily Amtrak train.

The Province will contribute up to a maximum of $4.5 million dollars. The remainder of the project will be funded by BNSF and Amtrak. The work will start this spring, and the project is expected to be completed by summer of 2008. “BNSF is pleased to work with the Province, Washington Department of Transportation, and Amtrak, to provide emissions friendly passenger capacity to British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest,” said Pete Rickershauser, vice-president of network development, BNSF Railway.
In its first full year of operation, the second Amtrak passenger train from Seattle to Vancouver is expected to bring approximately 50,000 travellers to Vancouver, injecting an estimated $13.9 million dollars into B.C.’s economy.


Media contact:
Mike Long
Communications Director
250 387-7787

Tourism BC Honours the Industry at BC Tourism Awards

VANCOUVER, BC, February 23, 2007 – Held on February 22nd at the Victoria Conference Centre, the BC Tourism Awards recognized innovation and excellence in the province’s tourism industry. Presented by Tourism British Columbia and the Council of Tourism Associations of British Columbia, a total of ten awards were handed out during the evening event to individuals and organizations representing a cross-section of the tourism industry.

A new award introduced at this year’s event, the Foresight Sustainability Award was given to Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, an industry leader in the development, implementation and advocacy of innovative and sustainable tourism policies and programs. By exhibiting outstanding vision, particularly in the midst of formidable challenges in the operating environment, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations demonstrates not only bottom-line success, but also adds significant value to the province in a social/cultural, economic and environmental context.

Rocky Mountaineer Vacations was also recognized with the Best Tourism Marketing Campaign Award for their highly successful marketing campaign titled, “What’s in the Box,” which promoted a new rail route between Vancouver and Whistler – the Whistler Mountaineer. The 16 week campaign included outdoor advertising, print media, street teams, television, an internal employee campaign and a dedicated website, resulting in over 52,000 guests, 9,000 contest entries and media coverage that reached over four million people.

Tourism Whistler was awarded the Technology in Tourism Award for using hypertag technology in a UK outdoor advertising campaign. Tourism Whistler provided access to travel information and content on a mobile phone or PDA directly from objects such as advertising panels and exhibition displays. Tourism Whistler successfully used technology in an innovative way to enable their tourism business to grow and, thereby, enhance the provincial tourism industry. The Employees First Award was given to Tigh-Na-Mara resort in Parksville for their on-going commitment to employee development and efforts in developing human resources initiatives, which include long service and performance recognition, staff surveys and “HR how-to” binders for management.

Mitchell Scott, a Nelson-based freelance travel writer, was recognized with the Tourism Media Award for his extensive coverage of British Columbia in a vast array of publications, such as Powder Magazine and the Globe and Mail. Mitchell is also the editor of Kootenay Mountain Culture Magazine. Passionate about British Columbia, Mitchell consistently writes quality profiles about the spectacular destinations in British Columbia’s six tourism regions.

Whistler Blackcomb Mountain Resorts Ltd. was recognized with the Environmentally Responsible Tourism Award for their efforts in protecting the environment, which includes the construction of a new chair lift in 2006. Helicopters, biologists, bear specialists and professional foresters were used to reduce the environmental impacts of this operation.

The Sport Tourism Community Legacy Award went to the City of Kamloops – Tournament Capital Program, recognized for strategically using unique partnerships to host a variety of events and to develop sport tourism programs and resources in the community.

The SuperHost Customer Service Award was given to Quesnel resident, Lorraine Hamelin for her dedication to helping visitors of the Sandman Hotel. Her commitment to customer service is exemplified in her daily activities, from lending guests her digital camera and personal vehicle, to spending her vacation days taking guests to Barkerville for the day.

The William Van Horne Visionary Award was presented to Gordon Bell, Duncan Myers, Dave Williamson, Earl Hansen, Doug McIntosh, Rick Antonson, John Dye and Bob Tuss for their vision and for the founding of the Council of Tourism Associations’ precursor, the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) from 1975 to 1981.

Peter Armstrong was recognized with the Tourism Industry Leader of the Year Award. As the Founder, President, CEO and a principal of the Armstrong Group, owner operator of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, acquired in 1990 and now the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America, Peter Armstrong has built viable tourism businesses, and seen them thrive. His businesses also generate jobs and revenue that benefit communities throughout British Columbia.

Tourism British Columbia is a Crown corporation that operates under an industry-led board of directors and is responsible for marketing the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand to the world.

To access comprehensive information about the business of tourism in British Columbia and Tourism British Columbia’s programs, visit www.tourismbc.com.

COTA is a federation of organizations and businesses representing an industry of nearly 18,000 businesses throughout British Columbia. COTA is an advocate for the $9.8 billion tourism industry which is responsible for the direct employment of over 117,000 British Columbians. For more information on COTA visit www.cotabc.com.

Contact:
Bettina Giblin
Corporate Communications
Tourism British Columbia
604-660-3757
Bettina.Giblin@tourismbc.com

VIA Rail Canada's "Romance by Rail" service puts couples on the fast track for love

Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Packages Available for Valentine's Day and Beyond Through www.viarail.ca/packages

MONTRÉAL - Rail travel is intrinsically romantic by nature - the gentle rocking of the train, the natural beauty of the untouched countryside as it rolls by, and the journey back to a time when there were less distractions and more time to spend with the one you love. And while Valentine's Day brings "loving thoughts" to mind, with VIA's "Romance by Rail" package, there's no need to wait for a special reason to treat yourself to a memorable voyage that will remain etched in your hearts for time. Whether you choose an overnight getaway between Vancouver and Jasper or a cross-Canada journey, VIA's "Romance by Rail" service is sure to have you saying, "I do".

A couples-only upgrade to VIA's premier-level Silver & Blue Class service on the world-renowned Canadian, "Romance by Rail," includes accommodations for two in a private suite, featuring a queen-sized bed, two private washrooms, complimentary in-room sparkling wine and fresh-cut flowers - even breakfast in bed upon request. "Romance by Rail" customers also have access to various lounges aboard the train, including the train's signature panoramic Dome cars, which offer a peaceful environment where couples can relax together and survey the incomparable views of Canada's magnificently impressive landscape by day or catch an evening sunset and stars by night.

In addition to the above amenities, delectable regional cuisine served by attentive staff, is also included in the price of a "Romance by Rail" ticket. The dining cars' sophisticated yet simple ambiance provides a special mood for passengers enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner. Offerings include hearty meals like bacon and eggs for breakfast and classic favourites such as salads, soups and wrap sandwiches for lunch, while the dinner menu features appetizing regional fare such as Alberta Bison Rib Roast, Grilled Arctic Char and Stuffed Game Hen. To complement their meals, a selection of award-winning, all-Canadian wines are also available for purchase.

Passengers travelling in the Windsor to Québec City Corridor have the additional option of creating their own unforgettable rail packages to Montréal, Ottawa or Québec City. Take in Montréal's winter festivals. Discover the romantic charm of Old Québec, of French bistros, quaint shops, and timeless surroundings. Or escape to Ottawa and skate hand-in-hand with your loved one along the Rideau Canal, the world's longest skating rink. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate as you view the impressive snow sculptures. VIA's winter getaway packages include round trip transportation on VIA 1 first class from Montréal and two nights at the four-star Québec Hilton from $363 CAD ($308.48 USD) per person, all taxes included. For more information about packages, romantic getaways or to plan a custom package visit www.viarail.ca/packages .

For tour programs that highlight VIA Rail's "Romance by Rail" service, or VIA services in the Windsor to Québec City Corridor, travellers can visit the packages section of VIA Rail's website at www.viarail.ca/packages , and select "The Canadian" from the drop-down menu in the "VIA Rail Trains Featured" section. Each vacation package resulting from the search will include a direct link to the tour operator and information about whether "Romance by Rail" is offered with that particular package. The following are just a few examples of packages offered:

For more information on "Romance by Rail" or any of VIA Rail's services, offers and products, please call 888 842-7245 (888-VIA RAIL) or visit www.viarail.ca

Booking
Customers can visit VIA's secure website at www.viarail.ca to book a trip anywhere in the VIA system or to book a complete trip with one-stop shopping for trains, cars, hotels and activities. Passengers also can book their tickets by calling 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7254), TTY 1 800 268-9503 (hearing impaired), or through their travel agent. VIA Rail Canada's services are commissionable to travel agents at 5%. Please note that although customers can obtain information on our website at www.viarail.ca/romancebyrail regarding "Romance by Rail", this service is offered exclusively through our call centres.

About VIA Rail Canada

As Canada's national passenger rail service, VIA Rail Canada's mandate is to provide efficient, environmentally responsible and cost effective passenger transportation services, both in Canada's busiest corridor and in remote and rural regions of the country. VIA serves more than 450 communities with a network of inter-city, transcontinental and regional trains. Demand continues to grow as more Canadians turn to train travel as a safe and convenient travel choice.

* Fares (and fare conditions) quoted are subject to change without notice. The Canadian dollar to United States dollar conversion rate used in this document was effective as of January 22, 2007. Conversion rates are subject to currency fluctuation.

Media Contacts:

Catherine Kaloutsky
Corporate Communications
(416) 956-7683
catherine_kaloutsky@viarail.ca

Seychelle Harding
Corporate Communications
(514) 871-6119
seychelle_harding@viarail.ca

Rocky Mountaineer Vacations Named One of the Best Employers in Canada

VANCOUVER, Jan. 8 /CNW/ - Vancouver-based Rocky Mountaineer Vacations (RMV), owners and operators of the world-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, is
proud to announce that the organization has ranked 23rd on the annual Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine/Hewitt Associates' 50 Best Employers in
Canada for 2007. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations is the top ranked Vancouver-based business on the list and has the third highest ranking in British Columbia.

"We recognize that we can't be a Best Employer without highly talented employees. The passion and dedication to excellence that this survey
recognizes is the same fundamental culture that drives our world-renowned guest service - and we have our employees to thank for that," says James
Terry, Executive VP and Chief Operating Officer, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. The results were based on companies completing confidential opinion
surveys in three main areas: Employee Opinion, Leadership Team and Human Resources. However, the lion's share of the ranking is a direct result of
employee feedback or high employee engagement - gauging the emotional and intellectual commitment employees demonstrate for the organization for which
they work.

"At its core, the prestigious Top 50 study measures how engaged employees are or how passionate, motivated and excited they are to come to work. This is
an award that recognizes how well we work together and how much we enjoy working with one another," says Paul Dyck, Vice President, Human Resources &
Corporate Administration at Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. "We have long recognized that our employees are the foundation of our team, and as such we
strive to be an employer of choice by attracting, training, supporting and retaining the very best people." According to Hewitt Associates the 50 Best
Employers have lower turnover, receive more applications for job openings and experience better business results. Hewitt also examined how closely
employees' and leaders' goals are aligned, and whether workplace practices and programs reinforce corporate vision. The Best Employers ranking has
become a recognized Canadian and international business award.

Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, owned and operated by Armstrong Group, offers year-round vacation packages to the most unique regions of Canada and
four spectacular rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta. Best known for the world-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, a two-day all daylight rail
journey between Canada's West and the Canadian Rockies, the company also offers trips onboard the new Whistler Mountaineer train, which is a daily
three-hour experience between North Vancouver and Whistler, B.C. Since its inception in 1990, the company has grown to become the largest privately owned
passenger rail service in North America and has hosted over 900,000 guests from around the world. In 2006, RMV was honoured with a World Travel Award as
"World's Leading Travel Experience by Train" for the second consecutive year. Armstrong Group, one of Canada's leading tourism providers also owns Gray Line
West motorcoach operations in Banff, Alberta and Vancouver, Whistler and Victoria, British Columbia.


For further information: Michelle Dunn, Manager, Communications, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, (604) 606-7324, mdunn@rockymountaineer.com,
www.rockymountaineer.com, www.whistlermountaineer.com