16 June 2008
Premier Joins CP Spirit of 150 Rail Tour in Cranbrook
Cranbrook British Columbia - A historic steam train tour
that takes communities on a journey through British Columbia's rich and diverse history was greeted in Cranbrook today by Premier
Gordon Campbell. The rail tour with its vintage steam engine and fully restored train cars is a BC150 flagship event, visiting dozens
of communities along the Canadian Pacific railway route over the next month.
"The CP Spirit of 150 Rail Tour recognizes the important role rail travel has always played in B.C.'s heritage, while also
commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Crown Colony of British Columbia," said Premier Campbell. "All year long
communities in every corner of British Columbia will share their stories with the world, celebrating our province's Aboriginal people,
cultural diversity, community strength, innovation, and countless achievements. The rail tour is an integral part of those
celebrations."
The CP Spirit of 150 Rail Tour is co-sponsored by Canadian Pacific, which is operating, staffing, and maintaining the
train. The train includes the vintage Empress 2816 steam locomotive and support cars, two vintage passenger coaches, a vintage business
car, a heritage baggage car converted into a travelling museum, and a stage car. Visitors can view historic displays, watch a stage
show called "Motherlode", and interact with costumed performers depicting some of B.C.'s most entertaining and notorious
historical figures.
"This is a great way for our communities to join with the province in celebrating our 150th year," said Bill Bennett, MLA for
East Kootenay. "The East Kootenays are an integral part of the history of B.C. and I'm pleased our contributions are recognized as
the Spirit of 150 Rail Tour visits several East Kootenay communities, including Cranbrook."
"The CP Spirit of 150 Rail Tour gives us the opportunity to connect our past, present, and future in the communities we serve
every day," said Canadian Pacific president and CEO Fred Green. "Canadian Pacific's 2,400 British Columbia-based
employees are proud to partner with the Province and celebrate 150 years of opportunity in Canada's Pacific Gateway."
BC150 is a celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of British Columbia in 1858. Every community is
invited to participate in this year-long celebration of B.C.'s cultural diversity, community strength, and achievement.
For more information on BC150 events and programs, please visit bc150.ca
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