Friday, December 17, 2010

Norfolk Southern's 'Train Your Brain' public safety awareness program heads to Ohio

Received the following via email.

December 15, 2010

Norfolk Southern's 'Train Your Brain' public safety awareness program heads to Ohio

NORFOLK, VA. - It's on to Ohio in 2011 for "Brainy" and Norfolk Southern's "Train Your Brain" safety campaign after completing a two-year successful run in east central and northern Indiana.

The 2010 campaign made its own mark for attention-grabbing creativity, no small feat for a program that from its beginning has featured a costumed giant pink walking brain as its mascot. Brainy is a silent safety sentry who without saying a word helps train people to be smart around grade crossings and railroad property. Brainy made 18 public appearances in 2010, from the 13th Annual BBQ RibFest at Fort Wayne to the gridiron clash between Notre Dame and Utah, one of seven Notre Dame home games that Brainy attended. No one could miss the rotating brain perched atop the Train Your Brain tent at tailgating events. Fans had their photos taken with Brainy and viewed them on Brainy's Facebook page and on the Train Your Brain website at http://www.brainysworld.com/.

"This is great that Norfolk Southern is taking the time to give back to the community," and, "Brainy is a celebrity," are typical actual comments made by guests who visited the Train Your Brain tent.

David Julian, NS vice president safety and environmental, said a serious message is behind the campaign's whimsical approach. "Most all car-train collisions and trespass incidents, along with the resulting tragic injuries and deaths, are preventable by drivers and pedestrians being safe around railroad tracks and paying attention to highway warning signs and signals," Julian said.

The campaign was refreshed in 2010 by dramatic billboards featuring slogans such as, "I raced a train and all I got was this lousy full-body cast." Pizza patrons in Muncie, South Bend, and Fort Wayne got a side order of safety along with their pepperoni as Train Your Brain attached a lifesaving message to 100,000 pizza delivery boxes. In a stroke of good timing, the campaign's theater screen ads started running about the same time as the train crash movie "Unstoppable" started showing.

In 2010, the campaign distributed a total of 45,863 novelties, including 3,218 T-shirts, 15,300 stress brains, 12,475 puzzle sheets, 4,050 stickers, and 3,720 car decals.

Norfolk Southern launched Train Your Brain in 2007 in Memphis, Tenn., and took the campaign to Raleigh, N.C., in 2008. Indiana, traditionally a high-incidence state for car-train crashes and trespass violations, was targeted in 2009 and 2010. Next year, the campaign will concentrate in two Ohio corridors: Portsmouth-Bellevue, and Cleveland west to the state line.

Norfolk Southern's Grade Crossing Oversight Committee, an interdepartmental team that coordinates the company's overall highway-rail grade crossing and trespass prevention programs, provides direction for Train Your Brain, with support from the safety, law, operations, and corporate communications departments, and the creative team of the Archer Malmo advertising agency in Memphis, Tenn. Rick Harris, NS director corporate communications, and Bill Barringer, NS director grade crossing safety, administer the campaign.

The message is simple: Think smart at highway-rail grade crossings, and stay off railroad property and equipment. For more information, visit www.brainysworld.com. Norfolk Southern also is a longtime supporter of the national highway-rail grade crossing safety campaign, Operation Lifesaver.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Rick Harris, 757-629-2718 (rwharris@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Norfolk Southern to host investor day

Received the following via email.

December 15, 2010

Norfolk Southern to host investor day

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) will host an investor day on Wednesday, June 8, 2011, at the company's state-of-the-art locomotive facility in Altoona, Pa., for active sell-side analysts and the company's largest shareholders.

At the meeting Norfolk Southern will present a comprehensive overview of marketing strategies and business growth opportunities, operating efficiency initiatives, service delivery enhancements, and development initiatives.

Event details (including simultaneous webcast details for interested investors) and registration information will be provided at a later date. Meeting registration is open to active sell-side analysts as well as NS' largest shareholders of record. Norfolk Southern's intent is to accommodate everyone who wants to attend the conference; however, attendance will be restricted if registrations exceed capacity.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Lehigh Valley Line through New Jersey

Received the following announcement via email.

LATE-BREAKING NEWS FROM THE RARITAN VALLEY RAIL COALITION
Contact: Kenneth Wedeen at 908.231.7021 / Fax: 908.707.1749 / E-mail: rvrc@co.somerset.nj.us

December 13, 2010

NJTPA Freight Planning Director
to Discuss Lehigh Line at Rail Coalition Meeting

Public Invited to Dec. 20 Meeting 

SOMERVILLE Elected officials, transportation professionals and the public are invited to the last Raritan Valley Rail Coalition meeting of 2010 on Monday, Dec. 20, at 8:30 a.m. in the third-floor freeholders’ meeting room located in the Somerset County Administration Building at 20 Grove St.

Ted Matthews, director of freight planning for the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, who will discuss the importance that triple-tracking the Lehigh Line will have on alleviating congestion and delays that result when freight and passenger service share the existing two-track railroad.

Free parking for the meeting is available in the Bernie Field Parking Deck adjacent to the Somerset County Administration Building; the entrance is off East High Street. Transit access is a short walk from NJ Transit’s Somerville train station and various NJ Transit bus routes. For NJ Transit bus and rail schedule and fare information, call (973) 275-5555 or visit www.njtransit.com

For questions, directions or more information, contact the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition at (908) 231-7021, by fax at (908) 707-1749 or by e-mail at rvrc@co.somerset.nj.us

In case of inclement weather, call (908) 281-9569 the day prior to the meeting to find out if it has been postponed.

Norfolk Southern Christmas and New Year Holiday Operations

Received the following via email.

Christmas and New Year Holiday Operations

Due to reduced shipments expected over the Christmas and New Year holiday, Norfolk Southern will curtail some train and terminal operations for a 48 hour period each holiday beginning at 7:00 AM on Friday, December 24 through 7:00 AM Sunday, December 26 and again beginning 7:00 AM on December 31 through 7:00 A.M. on Sunday, January 2. Operations necessary to protect critical shipments and to assure a rapid return to scheduled operations will continue through the period. Local train operations (pickup and delivery) during this period will be based on customer requirements.

Customers with critical shipments, particularly unit trains, where customer operations will continue through the holiday, should contact their Customer Service or Marketing Representative regarding service requirements.

Customer Service - - 800 635.5768

Where local service (pickup/delivery) will be required through the holiday period or for questions regarding specific shipments, customers are encouraged to contact their Central Yard Operations or Customer Service representative.

Central Yard Operations - - 800 898.4296

Monday, December 13, 2010

What's Wrong? FEC in VERMONT???

Received the following via email from Kermit Geary, Jr. Text, photos, and captions are his.
See our explanation following the photos.


Greetings all: It has been awhile since I have sent anything out. Just haven't been motivated to do so, I guess... What better way to develop motivation than SNOW!!! Testing in the St Albans, VT area on New England Central (NECR) (Ex Central Vermont). Lots of FEC stuff up here...just doesn't seem right tho...FEC in the SNOW???!!!???!!!! That's about as bad as seeing NS in California!!!

FEC 2500 in St Albans, VT



NYSW 4052 - 4050 - 4054 at St Albans, VT



Amtrak 52 on NECR in St Albans, VT



CSOR 8530 at St Albans, VT



FEC 722 & others at St Albans, VT



CN 8801 rests under a waning moon at St Albans, VT

Here is our explanation of how FEC equipment happens to be in Vermont on the New England Central Railroad (NECR). The NECR is owned by RailAmerica, a holding company of short-line and regional railroads. RailAmerica is owned by Fortress Investment Group. Fortress Investment Group also owns Florida East Coast Railway (FEC). Rail America leases spare FEC power that was stored in Florida and uses that equipment on it various properties, including the NECR.

Friday, December 10, 2010

NS CEO named Railway Age 'Railroader of the Year'

Received the following via email.

December 9, 2010

Norfolk Southern CEO Moorman named Railway Age 'Railroader of the Year'

NORFOLK, VA. -- Charles W. "Wick" Moorman, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Norfolk Southern Corp., has been named 2011 Railroader of the Year by railroad industry trade journal Railway Age.

"Wick Moorman provides the strong leadership that has enabled Norfolk Southern to make great strides in areas that are critical to the future of the railroad industry," said Railway Age Editor William C. Vantuono. "In addition to performing solidly, controlling costs, improving productivity, and continuing to invest in growth capital in a recessionary economy, Norfolk Southern has excelled in technological innovation and development of public-private partnerships. Among the many examples of these accomplishments are the railroad's building and testing of an all-electric battery-powered yard locomotive, and opening the Heartland Corridor, a major intermodal artery developed in partnership with several states. Norfolk Southern is strongly positioned for growth and is an example of why railroads are increasingly the mode of choice for the nation's transportation needs. This is why we have chosen Wick Moorman as our 2011 Railroader of the Year."

"I am honored by this recognition," said Moorman. "It reflects on the entire Norfolk Southern team -- talented, dedicated, and committed to safety - who make our company a success. They are the very best in the business, and I am proud to be one of them."

Moorman is Railway Age's 48th Railroader of the Year. Modern Railroads magazine founded the award, one of the most prestigious in the railroad industry, in 1964 as the "Man of the Year." Railway Age acquired Modern Railroads in 1991 and has presented the award annually since then. Moorman will be honored on March 15, 2011, at Chicago's Union League Club. He follows in the footsteps of several railroad industry icons from the Norfolk Southern, Norfolk & Western, and Southern railways: Stephen C. Tobias (2008), David R. Goode (2005 and 1998), Arnold B. McKinnon (1990), L. Stanley Crane (1974), and D.W. Brosnan (1964), the first Railroader of the Year.

Railway Age will tell the story of Wick Moorman and the remarkable, innovative organization he leads at Norfolk Southern with a cover story in the magazine's January 2011 issue.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Railway Age is a monthly trade magazine circulated at the management levels of North American freight and passenger railroads. Founded in Chicago, Ill., in 1856, it is the transportation industry's longest-running trade publication. Railway Age is published by the Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corp., New York.

Railroader of the Year recipients under Modern Railroads:
1964: D.W. Brosnan, Southern Railway System
1965: Stuart T. Saunders, Pennsylvania Railroad Co.
1966: Stuart T. Saunders, Pennsylvania Railroad Co.
1967: Louis W. Menk, Northern Pacific Railway
1968: William B. Johnson, Illinois Central Railroad
1969: John W. Barriger, Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad
1970: John S. Reed, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway
1971: Jervis Langdon Jr., Penn Central Transportation Co.
1972: Charles Luna, United Transportation Union
1973: James B. Germany, Southern Pacific Transportation Co.
1974: L. Stanley Crane, Southern Railway System
1975: Frank E. Barnett, Union Pacific Railroad
1976: Dr. William J. Harris Jr., Association of American Railroads
1977: Edward G. Jordan, Conrail
1978: Robert M. Brown, Union Pacific Railroad
1979: Theodore C. Lutz, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
1980: John G. German, Missouri Pacific Railroad Co.
1981: Lawrence Cena, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway
1982: A. Paul Funkhouser, Family Lines Rail System
1983: L. Stanley Crane, Conrail
1984: Hays T. Watkins, CSX Corp.
1985: John L. Cann, Canadian National
1986: Raymond C. Burton Jr., Trailer Train Co.
1987: Willis B. Kyle, Kyle Railways
1988: Darius W. Gaskins Jr., Burlington Northern
1989: W. Graham Claytor Jr., Amtrak
1990: Arnold B. McKinnon, Norfolk Southern
1991: Mike Walsh, Union Pacific Railroad

Recipients under Railway Age:
1992: William H. Dempsey, Association of American Railroads
1993: Raymond C. Burton Jr., TTX Co.
1994: L.S. "Jake" Jacobson, Copper Basin Railway
1995: Edwin Moyers, Southern Pacific Transportation Co.
1996: Robert D. Krebs, AT&SF, and Gerald Grinstein, Burlington Northern
1997: Paul M. Tellier, Canadian National
1998: David R. Goode, Norfolk Southern
1999: Edward A. Burkhardt, Wisconsin Central Transportation Co.
2000: The Railroad Worker (award presented as "Railroader of the Century" for 2000)
2001: Michael R. Haverty, Kansas City Southern Railway
2002: E. Hunter Harrison, Canadian National/Illinois Central
2003: Richard K. Davidson, Union Pacific Railroad
2004: Robert J. Ritchie, Canadian Pacific Railway
2005: David R. Goode, Norfolk Southern
2006: Richard F. Timmons, American Short Line & Regional Railroad Association
2007: William E. Wimmer, Union Pacific Railroad
2008: Stephen C. Tobias, Norfolk Southern
2009: Michael J. Ward, CSX
2010: Matthew K. Rose, BNSF
2011: Wick Moorman, Norfolk Southern

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Three Model Railroad Clubs - Last weekend to see them

Received the following announcement via email.


Three Clubs - Only one weekend left to see them this season.

The Model Railroad Club - Holiday Show
will be held at their headquarters at
295 Jefferson Ave., Union, NJ

Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Dec. 10, 11, 12, 2010
Friday 7:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 8:00pm, Sunday 11:00am to 6:00pm

See the attached link at their web site for details and directions

http://www.tmrci.com/Show.html


======================================================================================
The two following two clubs are located right next door to each other.

Garden State Model Railway Club
will be held at their headquarters at
575 High Mountain Rd North Haledon, NJ 07508

Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Dec. 10, 11, 12, 2010
Friday 7:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday1:00pm to 5:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm

See the attached link at their web site for details and directions

http://www.gsmrrclub.org/


The Model Engineers Railroad Club of North Jersey
will be held at their headquarters at
569 High Mountain Road
North Haledon, NJ 07508

Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Dec. 10, 11, 12, 2010
Friday 7:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday1:00pm to 5:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm

See the attached link at their web site for details and directions

http://www.angelfire.com/nj4/merrcnj/

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Big Little Railroad Shop now on YouTube

Check out our 1 minute video on YouTube.

Title: The Big Little Railroad Hobby Shop

Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jM2Ohiyc5E

Last weekend for a holiday train show

Received the following announcement via email.

The last weekend of
The New York Society of Model Engineers Holiday Show
will be held at their headquarters at
341 Hoboken Road, Carlstadt, NJ
Only One Mile from Giants Stadium in the Meadowlands
Friday, Saturday and Sunday
December 3, 4, and 5, 2010
Friday: 7:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday: 1:00pm to 6:00pm, Sunday: 1:00pm to 6:00pm

See the attached link at their web site for details and directions
http://www.ModelEngineers.org

Sunday, November 28, 2010

A cornucopia of Thanksgiving week trains...

Train sightings on 11-20/23/24-10.

...and, in my opinion, none of them were considered turkeys. This random selection of sightings starts on November 20 with NS 64J taking the Royce Running track (LEHL MP 40) as it prepares to work the BRI facility in Bridgewater. Motive power was NS 9482 followed by NS 8705 and NS 9198 on this day.



NJT 4800 (ex-Amtrak 812; GE P40DC) is the leader for NJT train 5719 as it pulls into NJT's Raritan Valley Line (RVL) North Branch station on November 23 on time at 11:07. It has quite a newsworthy past. NJT 4800 served as one of the two engines on that initial southbound revenue run of ACES (Atlantic City Express Service) on February 6, 2009. On the February 12, 2010 ACES run, 4800 caught fire while running on the NEC in Falls Township (PA). The fire brought down an estimated quarter-mile of overhead catenary. This caused all train service between Wilmington DE and Trenton NJ on the NEC to be shut down for 2 hours as a result.



Next up is NS 20E, with NS 7610, NS 9970 and NS 9676, seen passing through the Main Street grade crossing in Three Bridges, NJ (LEHL; MP48) at 8:30 on November 24.



The final image is of NJT train 5725 heading west over the RVL after departing Whitehouse Station around 2:15 PM. This partial view is of 3,700 foot passing siding in Readington Township as seen from the Mountain Road overpass. Hope that these images provided a feast for your eyes and adds to your enjoyment of Thanksgiving...

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Black Friday 2010 - Christmas Shopping at the Big Little Railroad Shop

Avoid the crowds at the malls by coming to the Big Little Railroad Shop in downtown Somerville on "Black Friday." We have all sorts of wonderful model railroad items from full sets to individual cars, locomotives, track, buildings, scenery supplies, etc. If you don't know exactly what to get your modeler, we have gift certificates. We also carry books, videos, and calendars. We have items in all the popular scales: G, O, HO, and N. And, if we don't have what you want in stock, we probably can order it for you.

In addition to a full line of model railroading "stuff," The Big Little Railroad Shop is now carrying plastic model kits for airplanes, ships, automobiles, and military vehicles. We also carry Ninco slot cars.

We are located at 63 West Main Street in Somerville, NJ. Phone: 908-685-8892.

Visit our web site at: http://www.biglittle.com/

For your holiday shopping convenience we are open the following hours through Christmas:

Tuesday - Wednesday 11AM - 7PM

Thursday - Friday 11AM -8PM

Saturday 11AM - 5PM

Sunday 12noon - 4PM

NS - Shipments Between Macon and Savannah Rerouted

Received the following via email on Monday, 11/22/10, from Norfolk Southern.

Shipments Between Macon and Savannah Rerouted
Some shipments normally moving on the line between Macon and Savannah, Georgia, are being rerouted due to a derailment at Midville, Georgia, and may encounter delays of 24 to 48 hours. Customers with questions regarding specific shipments should contact the National Customer Service Center.
Customer Service - - 800 635.5768

Customers with questions regarding local service should contact their Central Yard Operations Representative.
Central Yard Operations - - 800 898.4296

Saturday, November 20, 2010

CNJ show in Dunellen

Received the following via email.


CNJ Night


Steam, Diesel, Marine, Wrecks, & Facilities

by

Frank Reilly

former CNJ official

Mon., Nov. 22, 2010

7:00pm

in the Arts Annex

corner N. Washington Ave. & Front St.

(former Elks Club building)

----- Dunellen -----

(Free parking on the streets)

It’s FREE and Everyone is Invited!!!

Sponsored by the

Dunellen Historical Society

Thursday, November 18, 2010

NS CMO Seale to address Transportation and Industrials Conference

Received the following via email.

November 18, 2010

Norfolk Southern CMO Seale to address RBC Capital Markets' Transportation and Industrials Conference

NORFOLK, VA. - Donald W. Seale, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the RBC Capital Markets' Transportation and Industrials Conference in Miami, Fla., at 8:30 a.m. EST on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010.

Interested investors can listen via simultaneous webcast at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/rbc127/nsc/. After the webcast, the presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

The Model Railroad Club - Holiday Show

The Model Railroad Club - Holiday Show
will be held at their headquarters at
295 Jefferson Ave., Union, NJ
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
November 26, through Dec. 12, 2010
Fridays 7:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturdays 10:00am to 8:00pm, Sundays 11:00am to 6:00pm

See the attached link at their web site for details and directions
http://www.tmrci.com/Show.html

Saturday, November 13, 2010

NS named one of top 20 military friendly employers

Received the following via email.

November 12, 2010

Norfolk Southern named one of top 20 military friendly employers

NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern Corporation has been named one of the nation's best employers for people with military experience.

G.I. Jobs magazine ranked Norfolk Southern among the top 20 companies in its America's Top 100 "Military Friendly Employers" list for 2011. The annual list recognizes companies that have made the greatest effort and had the greatest success in hiring military veterans, and that have the best policies for employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve who are called to active duty. Norfolk Southern ranked 19th on the list. This is the sixth time Norfolk Southern has earned a spot on the list.

Norfolk Southern actively recruits people with military backgrounds for careers in railroad operations and management. During 2010, NS has recruited more than 270 veterans as new hires, 12 percent of all new employees.

"Military veterans bring valuable professional and technical skills to the workplace as well as an exceptional work ethic, leadership, experience, and a team-oriented attitude that are an excellent match for a career in the rail industry," said Cindy Earhart, NS vice president human resources.

A complete list of the Top 100 Military Friendly Employers is available on the G.I. Jobs Web site, http://www.gijobs.com/2011Top100.aspx?start=1&year=2011. To learn more about careers with Norfolk Southern, go to www.nscorp.com.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Saturday, November 06, 2010

Holiday train display to benefit Milltown, NJ train depot

Following are excerpts from an article that appears on myCentralJersey.com. Full article can be found at: http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20101104/NEWS/11040350
/Holiday+train+display+hopes+to+get+restoration+of+Milltown+depot+on+right+track


Three model-train enthusiasts are organizing a holiday train display that will take place at the Milltown Senior Citizen Center on Nov. 13-14.

The show will feature numerous operating toy-train layouts and more than 100 static displays of trains and accessories, as well as artifacts from the Raritan River Railroad. There will be several presentations, including "The Evolution of Toy Trains," "The History of the Raritan River Railroad" and "A Day in the Life of the Raritan River Railroad," as told by former engineer and fourth-generation railroader Kenneth Stockton.

The event is a fundraiser during which the Milltown Historical Society and the future Raritan River chapter of the National Railway Historical Society hope to raise money to move the Raritan River Railroad Freight Station, located near the tracks on Washington Avenue, to county-owned land across the street.

Here James Curren (top, center) owner of the property the station sits on opens up the building for Milltown Historical Society member Kathy Heilman (center) and local historian James Reid (right).

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Holiday train display
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 13; noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 14
WHERE: Milltown Senior Citizen Center, 60 Violet Terrace, Milltown, NJ
ADMISSION: $5 per person, children under 10 free, $12 for family of three or more
INFORMATION: 732-828-0249

Thursday, November 04, 2010

Transportation seminar Friday evening in Bridgewater, NJ

Received the following via email.

THE REGIONAL CENTER
Bridgewater - Raritan - Somerville
A partnership for a better tomorrow
In Somerset County, NJ

SUMMIT 2010 - “ON THE MOVE”
THE IMPACT OF TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENTS ON THE REGIONAL CENTER

PROGRESS REPORT - REGIONAL CENTER MOBILITY ISSUES
Somerset County Freeholder Peter Palmer

TRANSPORTATION AS AN ECONOMIC GENERATOR
Jon Carnegie, Executive Director, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center

MUNICIPAL TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT INITIATIVES
IN THE SOMERSET REGIONAL CENTER
Reports from Bridgewater, Raritan, & Somerville

THE REGIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Cliff Sobel, Deputy Executive Director Planning & Programming, NJTPA

Friday, November 5, 2010
7:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M.
Bridgewater Marriott

700 Commons Way, Bridgewater, New Jersey

The 2010 Regional Center Summit is free. Pre-registration is requested and may be accomplished online at info@regionalcenterpartnership.org or by calling Jim Ruggieri at 908-231-7021.

www.regionalcenterpartnership.org

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Trenton Line tragedy

From the Star-Ledger for Monday, 11-1-10.

A pedestrian was struck and killed by a train this evening in Hillsborough (NJ), according to a spokesman for rail company CSX Transportation.

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim, who was struck near Homestead Road by a commercial train traveling from South Kearny to Philadelphia, said spokesman Gary Sease.

The collision was reported shortly before 6 p.m., he said.

Note: Homestead Road crosses the CSX Trenton Line on a highway bridge, not a grade crossing.

Two from this cloudy Sunday morning...

(Train sightings on 10-31-10.)

First, along the LEHL NS 11J is approaching Hillsborough's Valley Road grade crossing (MP 40) at 9:13 on this cloudy morning. Leader 8384 is ex-CR 6171 followed by NS 9235 and 57 autoracks.


Next stop is Belle Mead where CSX 439, with leader CSX 778, passes beneath the Route 206 bridge that is scheduled to be replaced. Work to replace the Route 206 overpass in Belle Mead (NJ) over CSX's Trenton Line has begun as evidenced by the clearing of the surrounding area. This project will demolish the existing 85-foot single-span bridge and replaced it with a new 138-foot single-span structure 200 feet south of the current bridge. A sidewalk in each direction will be included on the new span. The clearing of the trees has provided a photo location, albeit a temporary one, along a line that does not have many photo locations due to the trees adjacent to the ROW. This project also proposed to “Keep the historic element of the Delaware and Bound Brook Railroad Historic District and Belle Meade Railroad Station by designing the replacement bridge with the same characteristics of the existing bridge”.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Hunting for some autumn color...

(Train sightings on 10-30-10.)

In my quest to get some LEHL fall foliage shots, Saturday’s travels took me to a number of places in NJ. This day would start out in Pattenburg where Musconetcong Mountain had a wide swath of golden foliage made even brighter with ample sunshine. Alas, the one item needed to complete this scene, namely an eastbound train, never passed by my location. Two westbounders, NS 21M and NS 11J (with 89 autoracks) did pass by but my preference on this day was for an eastbound train. Following the sun east to Stanton Station, I finally managed to photograph some color along the ROW. Unfortunately it was a red fox that that I spotted and photographed as it crossed over the ballast.


Later in the day at Hillsborough’s Valley Road grade crossing (MP40), another “autumn color” appeared. This time it was the UP 7392’s amour yellow leading NS 212 as it headed east around 2:30.



NS 19G was holding on the Roycefield Runner siding until 212 cleared. As 19G pulled out on to the main, the trees color’s adjacent to the ROW were also bland and nothing to be whistled at.


Oh well, guess there is always next fall to try and capture that fall foliage image, eh?

Saturday, October 30, 2010

NS COO Manion to address Stephens Inc. Fall Investment Conference

Received the following via email.

October 29, 2010

Norfolk Southern COO Manion to address Stephens Inc. Fall Investment Conference

NORFOLK, VA. - Mark D. Manion, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the Stephens Inc. Fall Investment Conference in New York City at 10 a.m. EST on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2010.

Interested investors can listen via simultaneous webcast at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/stph15/nsc/.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thomas Bright
Technical Project Manager
Norfolk Southern Corporation
3 Commercial Place
Norfolk, VA. 23510-0224
Phone: (757) 823-5525
Email: thomas.bright2@nscorp.com

Friday, October 29, 2010

NS reports third-quarter 2010 results

Received the following via email.

October 27, 2010

Norfolk Southern reports third-quarter 2010 results

For third-quarter 2010 vs. third-quarter 2009:

· Railway operating revenues increased 19 percent to $2.5 billion.
· Income from railway operations improved 33 percent to $746 million.
· Net income increased 47 percent to $445 million.
· Diluted earnings per share rose 47 percent to $1.19.
· The railway operating ratio improved by 3.2 percentage points to 69.6 percent.

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern Corporation today reported third-quarter 2010 net income of $445 million, an increase of 47 percent, compared with $303 million for third-quarter 2009. Diluted earnings per share were $1.19, up 47 percent, compared with $0.81 per share in the third quarter of 2009.

"Norfolk Southern delivered strong financial results as we experienced a fifth consecutive quarter of increased volumes," said CEO Wick Moorman. "We continue to see an economy characterized by slow growth, but growth nonetheless. We remain confident that our focus on strengthening service, controlling costs, and investing in our rail infrastructure and equipment will drive long-term shareholder value."

Third-quarter railway operating revenues improved 19 percent to $2.5 billion, compared with the third quarter of 2009, primarily as the result of a 15 percent increase in traffic volume.

General merchandise revenues were $1.3 billion, 16 percent higher compared with third-quarter 2009 results. Coal revenues increased 24 percent, to $709 million, compared with the same period last year. Intermodal revenues were $464 million, 19 percent higher compared with the third quarter of 2009.

Railway operating expenses for the third quarter were $1.7 billion, an increase of 14 percent over the same period of 2009.

The railway operating ratio improved by 3.2 percentage points to 69.6 percent, compared with 72.8 percent during third-quarter 2009.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thomas Bright
Technical Project Manager
Norfolk Southern Corporation
3 Commercial Place
Norfolk, VA. 23510-0224
Phone: (757) 823-5525
Email: thomas.bright2@nscorp.com

NS CFO Squires to address Baird Industrial Conference

Received the following via email.

October 25, 2010

Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to address Baird Industrial Conference

NORFOLK, VA. - James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the Baird Industrial Conference in Chicago at 2:30 p.m. CST on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010.

Interested investors can listen via simultaneous webcast at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/baird17/nsc/. After the webcast, the presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thomas Bright
Technical Project Manager
Norfolk Southern Corporation
3 Commercial Place
Norfolk, VA. 23510-0224
Phone: (757) 823-5525
Email: thomas.bright2@nscorp.com

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

MTH 2011 catalog, Vol. 1 now available



MTH 2011 catalog Volume 1 is now available at The Big Little Railroad Shop.

Stop in and checkout all the new offerings in the catalog.

Place an order for one of the new items by November 15, 2010 to receive 10% off the list price and a guaranteed reservation for that item.

We also have the latest Lionel Catalog, 2010 Vol II.

Norfolk Southern declares quarterly dividend

Received the following via email.

October 26, 2010

Norfolk Southern declares quarterly dividend

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern Corporation today announced the regular quarterly dividend of 36 cents per share on its common stock, payable on Dec. 10, to stockholders of record on Nov. 5.

Since its inception in 1982, Norfolk Southern has paid dividends on its common stock for 113 consecutive quarters.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Kent, Ohio and the Erie Railroad

Received a notice of the following event via email. This is a little far from our store, but this blog is read around the world.

From the Kent Historical Society web site
( http://www.kentohiohistory.org/ ).

Coming to the Kent Stage
175 East Main St.
Presented by the Kent Historical Society
Speaker Series

November 1, 2010 – 7:00 P.M.
Bruce Dzeda will speak on Kent and the Erie Railroad
His talk will be accompanied by historical images of Kent and the Erie Railroad
This event is free and open to the public.
Doors open at 6:30 P.M.



Railroad Town: Kent and the Erie Railroad

The Kent Historical Society is proud to announce the publication of our new book written by Bruce Dzeda. This profusely illustrated book traces the emergence of the Erie Railroad and the profound affect it had on the city of Kent. The book will be for sale in the lobby of the Kent Stage at Mr. Dzeda's presentation.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

NS: Green and getting greener

Received the following via email.

October 21, 2010

Norfolk Southern: Green and getting greener

NORFOLK, VA. - For environmentalism in 2010, Norfolk Southern Corporation's score improved to 71.28 of 100 points, and its ranking improved to 233 among the 500 largest publicly traded companies in America, according to NEWSWEEK magazine.

The evaluation reflects NS' worldwide environmental footprint, based on more than 700 separate metrics; an assessment of the company's green initiatives; and a poll of CEOs, environmental officers, and other green experts, according to NEWSWEEK.

Companies measured in the report were included by virtue of their revenue, market capitalization, and number of employees.

The NS numbers compared with 67.61 points and 338 overall in 2009.

"A benchmark such as this gives us useful perspective," said F. Blair Wimbush, NS' vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer. "Customers and communities expect us to set the pace for sustainability in the rail transportation arena. The rankings help validate that our green performance is solid and improving."

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thomas Bright
Technical Project Manager
Norfolk Southern Corporation
3 Commercial Place
Norfolk, VA. 23510-0224
Phone: (757) 823-5525
Email: thomas.bright2@nscorp.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

R&N 425 excursion, 10-17-10

Received the following via email from Kermit Geary, Jr. Text, photos and captions are his.

R&N is the Reading and Northern RR, and this excursion ran from Port Clinton, PA to Jim Thorpe, PA roundtrip. For more information on the R&N, including future excursions, visit their web site.
http://www.readingnorthern.com/

Spent a lazy October Sunday afternoon out following the 425 on its run from Jim Thorpe, PA to Port Clinton, PA on 10-17-2010.


R&N 425 at Zehners, PA



R&N 425 at Hecla, PA



R&N 425 at Marion Rd X-ing, Haucks, PA



R&N 425 at Molino, PA

NS breaks ground on new intermodal terminal in Greencastle, Pa.

Received the following via email.

October 19, 2010

Norfolk Southern breaks ground on new $95 million intermodal terminal in Greencastle, Pa.

GREENCASTLE, PA. – Today Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman was joined by Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell, Federal Railroad Administration Deputy Administrator Karen Rae, Rep. Bill Shuster, and other state and local dignitaries to officially break ground for the new Franklin County Regional Intermodal Facility in Greencastle, Pa.

The $95 million facility, part of the railroad’s multi-state Crescent Corridor initiative to establish an efficient, high-capacity intermodal freight rail route between the Gulf Coast and the Northeast, occupies a 200-acre site adjacent to the planned Antrim Commons Business Park and is expected to open in 2012.

Today’s groundbreaking is for the first of four new Crescent Corridor intermodal terminals Norfolk Southern plans to construct over the next two years.

“The Franklin County Regional Intermodal Facility is ideally located to serve the Mid-Atlantic region and is a critical component of our Crescent Corridor,” said Moorman. “We commend Governor Rendell for his dedication and commitment to improve transportation infrastructure not only in the commonwealth but throughout the U.S. We also want to thank Representative Shuster for his involvement in our efforts to form public-private partnerships to create jobs and economic development opportunities throughout Pennsylvania. Finally, we must recognize the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the Franklin County Area Development Corporation, and Antrim Township for their active participation in the planning of this project.”

“There is no doubt that this type of integrated logistics hub creates good jobs, generates revenue, and provides substantial environmental benefits,” Governor Rendell said. “Pennsylvania has invested heavily in freight rail because it is a smart, environmentally friendly, cost-effective infrastructure investment. I will continue to advocate for rail freight investments at the state and national level.”

“Intermodal terminals like the one Norfolk Southern broke ground on today are proven centers for investment, infrastructure improvement, and business growth,” said Congressman Shuster, Ranking Republican on the House Subcommittee on Railroads. “The improvements being made to Exit 3 on I-81 are a perfect example of this. I have long supported investment in freight rail because it’s efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible. I have no doubt that this facility will open a new chapter in Pennsylvania’s proud railroading history and create new opportunities for growth here in Franklin County and beyond.”

The Crescent Corridor is a program of improvements to infrastructure and other facilities geared toward creating a high capacity 2,500 mile intermodal route spanning from New Jersey to Louisiana that touches 26 percent of the nation’s population and 30 percent of the nation’s manufacturing output. It provides the shortest intermodal double stack route between the South and the Northeast. When fully operational it will handle more rail freight traffic faster and more reliably, creating or benefiting more than 70,000 green jobs by 2030 and producing these estimated annual benefits:

1.3 million long-haul trucks diverted from interstates
$141 million in accident avoidance savings
1.8 million tons in CO2 reduction
$565 million in congestion savings
$262 million in highway maintenance savings
163 million gallons in fuel savings

The Crescent Corridor program of projects is estimated to cost $2.5 billion for full development. In addition to the Greencastle facility, Crescent Corridor projects currently planned for development include new independent intermodal facilities at Birmingham, Ala., Charlotte, N.C. and Memphis, Tenn.; the expansion of intermodal terminals in Harrisburg and Philadelphia, Pa.; and the addition of freight rail capacity in Virginia and Mississippi. In addition to facility investments, the program includes significant investments in rail route improvements consisting of additional passing tracks, double track projects, improved signaling systems, and other track speed enhancements.

When the Crescent Corridor is fully operational, annual benefits to Pennsylvania are expected to include more than 806,000 long-haul trucks diverted to rail, almost 10 million gallons of fuel saved, carbon dioxide reduction of 106,000 tons, more than $33 million in traffic congestion savings, and avoidance of an estimated $8.3 million in accident costs. Over the next ten years 26,000 jobs in Pennsylvania are expected to be created or enhanced by Crescent Corridor projects. Norfolk Southern also has improvements planned for existing intermodal terminals in Harrisburg and Philadelphia, along with $27 million in track and signal upgrades.

The proposed investment in the Franklin County Regional Intermodal Facility will create the capacity to handle more than 85,000 containers and trailers annually. The terminal will utilize the latest in gate and terminal automation technology, which shortens the waiting time for trucks entering the terminal, thereby reducing exhaust emissions and improving truck driver productivity. Four intermodal trains daily will serve the terminal.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thomas Bright
Technical Project Manager
Norfolk Southern Corporation
3 Commercial Place
Norfolk, VA. 23510-0224
Phone: (757) 823-5525
Email: thomas.bright2@nscorp.com

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Belle Mead NJ's Route 206 bridge days are numbered!

(Train sightings on 10-17-10.)

A project to replace the Route 206 bridge over CSX's Trenton Line has begun as evidenced by the clearing of the surrounding area. This project will demolish the current bridge and be replaced with a new structure on an improved road alignment. The estimated cost of all of this will be $24.77 million. The clearing of the trees has provided with a photo location, albeit a temporary one, along a line that does not have many photo locations due to the trees adjacent to the ROW. Seen here CSX Q439 is westbound with CSX 581 (AC44CW) and CSX 8153 (ex-LN 8153; SD40-2) on October 17th at 2:20.


NS "One Line, Infinite Possibilities" advertising campaign

Received the following via email.

October 19, 2010

"One Line, Infinite Possibilities" characterizes Norfolk Southern approach to freight rail transportation

NORFOLK, VA. -- One railroad line supports the American economy and brings a world of opportunity and benefits to its customers and communities.

With that in mind, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) begins its "One Line, Infinite Possibilities" advertising campaign that builds on the company's "Thoroughbred of Transportation" communications program, now in its 28th year.

The campaign begins with a new television commercial, "Connects," that runs now through the election season on various programs on the CNN and Fox News cable networks. The 30-second spot was produced by Norfolk Southern's creative partner, rp3 Agency, of Bethesda, Md.

CEO Wick Moorman said the "One Line, Infinite Possibilities" tagline reflects the fact that, "NS is the backbone of an integrated logistics system that makes modern life possible. We have extraordinary abilities to offer in terms of service, safety, economy, sustainability, and the ways in which we connect the businesses and people who depend on us."

The "Connects" spot makes a graphic play off the "speedlines" in NS' widely-known corporate logo. It will be joined by print, Internet, out-of-home, and social media advertisements, and a second commercial, called "Engine," beginning early in 2011.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thomas Bright
Technical Project Manager
Norfolk Southern Corporation
3 Commercial Place
Norfolk, VA. 23510-0224
Phone: (757) 823-5525
Email: thomas.bright2@nscorp.com

Friday, October 15, 2010

NS CFO to address Goldman Sachs Conference

Received the following via email.

October 14, 2010

Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to address Goldman Sachs Global Industrials Conference

NORFOLK, VA. - James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the Goldman Sachs Global Industrials Conference on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2010, in New York City at 10:15 a.m.

Interested investors can listen via simultaneous webcast at http://cc.talkpoint.com/gold006/110310a_mg/?entity=15_24QK3TD. After the webcast, the presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Thursday, October 07, 2010

NS handles one of its largest vessel coal loadings

Received the following via email.

October 5, 2010

Norfolk Southern handles one of its largest vessel coal loadings

NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern handled one of its largest cargo loadings of the last 20 years at its Pier 6 coal transloading facility at Lamberts Point in Norfolk.

On Sept. 29, Norfolk Southern loaded 152,681 net tons (138,512 metric tons) of coal into the M/V Linda Dream, destined for ThyssenKrupp Steel in Flushing, the Netherlands. The coal came from Integrity Coal and Mechel in 1,475 railroad coal cars. T. Parker Host Inc. was the ship agent/broker.

The Linda Dream loading was one of the largest since Pier 6's 1989 loading of 151,773 net tons for the Nord Atlantic, the 1991 loading of 153,263 net tons for the Doceserra, and the 1998 loading of 157,645 net tons for the M/V Irongate.

"Such a large transfer is exciting, but the real story is the continuing effectiveness of the partnership between Norfolk Southern, coal suppliers, and agents," said Danny D. Smith, NS senior vice president energy and properties. "We are proud to serve with them in the competitive transportation chain that brings the raw materials essential for making steel to the world."

Jeff G. Yates, terminal superintendent at Pier 6, praised the ability of the railroaders there. "They exemplify safe, reliable transportation," he said. "Wherever steel is used, wherever the lights come on, that's a reminder of the skill they bring to bear for our customers."

At 948 feet long and 147 feet and eight-inches wide, the Linda Dream is one of the larger vessels to call at Pier 6, though the recent length record is held by the Hyundai Continental (1,014-feet) and the recent beam record is held by the Nord Atlantic and the Venture (both 176 foot and one-inch).

Norfolk Southern has been transferring coal and coke from railroad cars into ocean-going export and domestic vessels in the Lamberts Point area since 1884, when it opened Pier 1. In the first half of the 1900s, new Piers 2-5 featured improvements in speed and capacity and even loaded coal into a number of famous vessels, such as those used in Admiral Byrd's 1933 Antarctica expedition.

Pier 6 opened for business in 1962 as the hemisphere's largest, fastest, and most efficient transloading facility. In 1999, Pier 6 dumped its billionth ton of coal and became the only facility in the world to have reached that milestone.

Most of the coal moving through Pier 6 originates in Southwest Virginia, Southern West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Alabama. It is shipped to several dozen countries as well as to coastwise domestic receivers. Pier 6 is situated with access to Hampton Roads' deep 50-foot channel, which allows modern vessels to make productive use of their large holds.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Wednesday, October 06, 2010

NS to host 3rd-quarter earnings conference call

Received the following via email.

October 4, 2010

Norfolk Southern to host third-quarter earnings conference call

NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) will present its third-quarter 2010 earnings on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010, at 4:30 p.m. EDT via teleconference and live Internet webcast. The company will issue its earnings results shortly after market close on Oct. 27.

Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial 877-869-3847 several minutes prior to the call. An audio replay will be available until Nov. 3, 2010, following the live broadcast by dialing 877-660-6853 using PIN 2861 and replay number 355166.

In conjunction with the call, a live webcast will be accessible, and presentation materials will be posted on the company's Web site at www.nscorp.com under the Investors section. Following the earnings call, an Internet replay of the presentation will be archived on the company's Web site. In addition, the replay will be available for download to a portable audio player or computer as an MP3 - or podcast - file. Both the replay and MP3 file can be found at www.nscorp.com in the Investors section.

For electronic notification of earnings events, subscribe to NSInvest, Norfolk Southern's e-mail distribution list for news releases on earnings and issues pertaining to the financial performance of Norfolk Southern Corporation. To subscribe, follow directions on our Web site under the Investors tab.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Monday, October 04, 2010

NS announces extension of early exchange date of private exchange offer

Received the following via email.

September 30, 2010

Norfolk Southern announces extension of early exchange date of private exchange offer for 7.90% notes due 2097

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern Corporation announced today that the early exchange date with respect to its private exchange offer (the "Exchange Offer") for its outstanding 7.90% Notes due 2097 (the "Existing Notes") has been extended until midnight, New York City time, on Oct. 14, 2010, which is also the expiration date of the Exchange Offer. On or prior to 5 pm, New York City time, on September 29, 2010, the original early exchange date, valid tenders had been received with respect to approximately $97 million of the $350 million aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes outstanding based on information provided to Norfolk Southern Corporation by the exchange agent.

The withdrawal date relating to the Existing Notes occurred at 5 p.m., New York City time, on September 29, 2010. Existing Notes previously tendered and Existing Notes tendered after Sept. 29, 2010, may not be withdrawn except in certain limited circumstances where additional withdrawal rights are required by law. Both the Exchange Offer and the extended early exchange date will expire at midnight on Oct. 14, 2010, unless extended or earlier terminated by Norfolk Southern Corporation. Under the present terms of the Exchange Offer, Norfolk Southern Corporation will deliver, on or promptly following the expiration date, 5.30% Notes due 2040 (the "New Notes") plus $350 in cash to holders whose tenders were accepted.

The New Notes are being offered only to qualified institutional buyers and outside the United States pursuant to applicable exemptions from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). This announcement shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, nor shall there be any offer or sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. The New Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act, and they may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration. D.F. King & Co. Inc. is the exchange and information agent for the Exchange Offer. Requests for documents and questions regarding the Exchange Offer may be directed to D.F. King & Co. Inc. at (800) 848-3416 (U.S. Toll-free) or (212) 269-5550 (Collect).

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements about Norfolk Southern Corporation, including those related to the offering of New Notes and whether or not Norfolk Southern will consummate the offering. Forward-looking statements reflect management's good-faith evaluation of information currently available. However, such statements are dependent on and, therefore, can be influenced by a number of external variables over which management has little or no control, including: legislative and regulatory developments; transportation of hazardous materials as a common carrier by rail; acts of terrorism or war; general economic conditions; impacts of environmental regulations on utility coal customers and/or the value of certain of Norfolk Southern's assets; competition and consolidation within the transportation industry; the operations of carriers with which it interchanges; disruptions to its technology infrastructure, including computer systems; labor difficulties, including strikes and work stoppages; results of litigation; natural events such as severe weather, hurricanes, and floods; unavailability of qualified personnel due to unpredictability of demand for rail services; fluctuation in supplies and prices of key materials, in particular diesel fuel; and changes in securities and capital markets. Information concerning potential factors that could affect Norfolk Southern's financial results is included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2009, and its other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as, a guarantee of future performance or results, nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at or by which any such performance or results will be achieved. As a result, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements. Norfolk Southern undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements.

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)

Friday, October 01, 2010

The Great Pumpkin Train Starts This Weekend!

Received the following via email.


The Great Pumpkin Train
STARTS THIS WEEKEND!

OCTOBER 2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24,30,31
Sponsored by:

Ride our steam train through the beautiful fall landscape of Western New Jersey. Take the train to our beautiful pumpkin patch located in a little glade in front of the historic Carpentersville Lime Kilns which date from the 1700's. Once we arrive at the Pumpkin Patch everyone is welcome to get off the train and EVERY CHILD can pick their own pumpkin for FREE.

For more family fun ad the CORN MAZE & OLE' SUSQUEHANNA MINING COMPANY experience to your Pumpkin Train ride!

PRICING:
Lap Sitter $1.00
Child Pumpkin Train $7.00
Adult Pumpkin Train $ 14.00
trains leave:
( 11 AM 12:30, 2 OR 3:30)
THE CORN MAZE CAN BE ADDED ON FOR $4.00 PER TICKET
and the Mine can be added on for $5.00 PER TICKET


Free Pumpkins For Every Child


Atlas Consumer Advisory - product incompatability

Received the following via email.


September 30,2010

Consumer Advisory-Atlas HO Genset Locomotive/MRC Tech 6 Power Pack

Dear Atlas Customer,

Initial investigations have uncovered an incompatibility problem between the new Atlas HO Genset Locomotive and the new MRC Tech 6 Power Pack which could result in circuit board burn out.

Atlas strongly recommends that customers who have purchased this locomotive do not operate it with this specific MRC power pack. Atlas will inform customers of more complete findings as soon as possible.

Thank You

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Trains and parades...

(Train sightings on 9-26-10.)

Sunday's heads-up of the NS OCS 8:15 AM departure from Croxton for a morning run west over the LEHL was enough of an incentive to get me trackside despite overcast skies. After all, shooting a westbound train on the LEHL usually means shooting into the sun. Not so on this morning as there was filtered sunlight. I decided to wait for the train at the Valley Road grade crossing (LEHL: MP40) in Hillsborough. Around 9:10, the scanner came alive with the message "P951 clear Port Reading Junction." It wouldn't be long before the headlight appeared off in the distance. The leader on P951 was NS 4271 followed by 4276, 4275 and 4270. Behind these four units were the eleven coaches. What a clean and beautiful sight it was to behold.




After that it was time to head out to watch the annual John Basilone Day parade in Raritan. Our favorite viewing area is standing on Thompson Avenue, south of NJT's grade crossing. Not only can I watch the parade but keep tabs on what trains will pass by. Caught NJT 4001 leading a westbound passenger train prior to the start of the parade. The USMC Band, waiting by the gate, looked as though they were awaiting the President's arrival on this train. All of the members were decked out in their dress uniforms with the flag bearers standing in front.



With the parade's last units having passed, we made our way back to where our car was parked. Looking down the tracks was another NJT train. No, this wasn't another passenger train. It was NJT 4217 heading up a consist of eleven ballast cars. Not a bad way to end what turned out to be a rather productive day when it came to railroad photography.