The following is from the Woodland Scenics dealers newsletter for January, 2012.
Fire Update
Out of the Ashes...
Many of you may have already heard that we had a fire at our manufacturing plant in Linn Creek, Missouri on Thursday, January 5, 2012. We have much to be thankful for.
We are most grateful that no one was hurt. Our employees followed evacuation procedures to the letter, getting everyone out of here, accounted for and shutting down power sources.
The Osage Beach Fire Department and several other responding fire departments were amazing. They responded quickly and their professionalism and tireless efforts successfully contained the fire.
The determined cause of the fire was the failure of an electrical motor, and the fire took eight percent of our total facilities. Manufacturing and shipping operations in other buildings continued even as the firefighters fought the blaze.
Several of us returned to work Friday morning to assist with clean-up and get business operations up and running. We took orders and shipped product, and some of us even worked through the weekend to make sure that we were all back to work Monday morning, January 9.
We are so grateful for the outpouring of support we received from our friends and customers. We heard from folks from all over the world. We are very appreciative and humbled by all the encouragement, prayers and offers to help. Thanks again!
We still have some clean-up to do, but we are back to business as usual!
Also see our post for Friday, January 06, 2012, titled Woodland Scenics Update: Fire.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
NS increases dividend
Received the following via email.
January 24, 2012
Norfolk Southern increases dividend
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation announced that its Board of Directors today voted to increase the regular quarterly dividend on the company’s common stock by 9.3 percent, or 4 cents per share, from 43 to 47 cents per share. The increased dividend is payable on March 10, to stockholders of record on Feb. 3. Since its inception in 1982, Norfolk Southern has paid dividends on its common stock for 118 consecutive quarters.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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) Susan Terpay, 757-823-5204 (susan.terpay@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
January 24, 2012
Norfolk Southern increases dividend
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation announced that its Board of Directors today voted to increase the regular quarterly dividend on the company’s common stock by 9.3 percent, or 4 cents per share, from 43 to 47 cents per share. The increased dividend is payable on March 10, to stockholders of record on Feb. 3. Since its inception in 1982, Norfolk Southern has paid dividends on its common stock for 118 consecutive quarters.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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) Susan Terpay, 757-823-5204 (susan.terpay@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
NS reports 2011 fourth-quarter and full-year results
Received the following via email.
January 24, 2012
Norfolk Southern reports 2011 fourth-quarter and full-year results
For 2011 vs. 2010:
NS set the following fourth-quarter records:
· Railway operating revenues reached $2.8 billion, up 17 percent.
· Net income increased 19 percent to $480 million.
· Diluted earnings per share rose 30 percent to $1.42.
NS set the following records for the year:
· Railway operating revenues reached $11.2 billion, up 17 percent.
· Income from railway operations climbed 20 percent to $3.2 billion.
· Net income was $1.9 billion, up 28 percent.
· Diluted earnings per share increased 36 percent to $5.45.
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation today reported record fourth-quarter net income of $480 million, 19 percent higher compared with $402 million for the same quarter of 2010. Diluted earnings per share were a record $1.42, up 30 percent compared with the $1.09 per diluted share earned in the same period a year earlier.
For 2011, net income increased to an all-time record $1.9 billion, 28 percent higher compared with $1.5 billion for 2010. Diluted earnings per share for the year increased 36 percent, or $1.45, to a record $5.45, compared with 2010.
“Norfolk Southern achieved all-time records for revenues, operating income, net income, and earnings per share during 2011, and set fourth-quarter records for revenues, net income, and earnings per share,” said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “In 2012 we will remain committed to enhancing our service product, maintaining the safety and quality of our rail network, improving operational efficiency, and supporting growth.”
“Our strong capital program of $2.4 billion will include substantial investments along our Crescent Corridor, a public-private partnership to create a high-capacity, truck-competitive intermodal freight rail route between the Gulf Coast and Northeast,” Moorman said. “As part of this program of projects, we plan to open intermodal terminals in Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee later in the year. Facilities such as these relieve congested freight lines and highways, and are proven centers for creating jobs and economic development.”
Railway operating revenues increased to $2.8 billion, a fourth-quarter record, up 17 percent compared with the same period a year earlier. For 2011, railway operating revenues set an all-time record $11.2 billion, 17 percent higher compared with 2010. The improvements were the result of increases in revenue per unit of 11 percent for the quarter and 12 percent for the year and higher volumes that were up 6 percent for the quarter and 5 percent for the year.
General merchandise revenues rose to $1.4 billion, up 13 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010. For 2011, general merchandise revenues increased to $5.6 billion, 12 percent higher compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased 1 percent in the quarter and was even for the year compared with the same periods of 2010.
Coal revenues in the fourth quarter were $850 million, up 24 percent compared with the same period last year. For 2011, coal revenues were $3.5 billion, 27 percent higher compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased 3 percent in the quarter and 4 percent for the year compared with the same periods of 2010.
Intermodal revenues were $554 million, up 18 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010. For the year, intermodal revenues were $2.1 billion, up 19 percent compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased by 11 percent in the quarter and 10 percent for 2011 compared with the same periods of 2010.
Railway operating expenses were $2 billion for the fourth quarter, 14 percent higher compared with the same period a year earlier. For 2011, railway operating expenses were $8 billion, up 16 percent compared with 2010. The increases were primarily driven by fuel expenses, which rose by $95 million in the fourth quarter and $510 million for the year, and higher costs associated with increased traffic volumes.
Income from railway operations increased 25 percent for the quarter to $800 million and improved 20 percent to a record $3.2 billion for the year, compared with the same periods of 2010.
Fourth-quarter 2011 results included $11 million in deferred income tax benefits attributable to state tax law changes. The year included $68 million of favorable, non-recurring income tax benefits.
The fourth-quarter railway operating ratio improved by 2 percent to 71.4 percent compared with the same period last year. For 2011, the railway operating ratio improved by 1 percent to 71.2 percent compared with 2010.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 ( michael.hostutler@nscorp.com )
January 24, 2012
Norfolk Southern reports 2011 fourth-quarter and full-year results
For 2011 vs. 2010:
NS set the following fourth-quarter records:
· Railway operating revenues reached $2.8 billion, up 17 percent.
· Net income increased 19 percent to $480 million.
· Diluted earnings per share rose 30 percent to $1.42.
NS set the following records for the year:
· Railway operating revenues reached $11.2 billion, up 17 percent.
· Income from railway operations climbed 20 percent to $3.2 billion.
· Net income was $1.9 billion, up 28 percent.
· Diluted earnings per share increased 36 percent to $5.45.
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation today reported record fourth-quarter net income of $480 million, 19 percent higher compared with $402 million for the same quarter of 2010. Diluted earnings per share were a record $1.42, up 30 percent compared with the $1.09 per diluted share earned in the same period a year earlier.
For 2011, net income increased to an all-time record $1.9 billion, 28 percent higher compared with $1.5 billion for 2010. Diluted earnings per share for the year increased 36 percent, or $1.45, to a record $5.45, compared with 2010.
“Norfolk Southern achieved all-time records for revenues, operating income, net income, and earnings per share during 2011, and set fourth-quarter records for revenues, net income, and earnings per share,” said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “In 2012 we will remain committed to enhancing our service product, maintaining the safety and quality of our rail network, improving operational efficiency, and supporting growth.”
“Our strong capital program of $2.4 billion will include substantial investments along our Crescent Corridor, a public-private partnership to create a high-capacity, truck-competitive intermodal freight rail route between the Gulf Coast and Northeast,” Moorman said. “As part of this program of projects, we plan to open intermodal terminals in Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee later in the year. Facilities such as these relieve congested freight lines and highways, and are proven centers for creating jobs and economic development.”
Railway operating revenues increased to $2.8 billion, a fourth-quarter record, up 17 percent compared with the same period a year earlier. For 2011, railway operating revenues set an all-time record $11.2 billion, 17 percent higher compared with 2010. The improvements were the result of increases in revenue per unit of 11 percent for the quarter and 12 percent for the year and higher volumes that were up 6 percent for the quarter and 5 percent for the year.
General merchandise revenues rose to $1.4 billion, up 13 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010. For 2011, general merchandise revenues increased to $5.6 billion, 12 percent higher compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased 1 percent in the quarter and was even for the year compared with the same periods of 2010.
Coal revenues in the fourth quarter were $850 million, up 24 percent compared with the same period last year. For 2011, coal revenues were $3.5 billion, 27 percent higher compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased 3 percent in the quarter and 4 percent for the year compared with the same periods of 2010.
Intermodal revenues were $554 million, up 18 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010. For the year, intermodal revenues were $2.1 billion, up 19 percent compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased by 11 percent in the quarter and 10 percent for 2011 compared with the same periods of 2010.
Railway operating expenses were $2 billion for the fourth quarter, 14 percent higher compared with the same period a year earlier. For 2011, railway operating expenses were $8 billion, up 16 percent compared with 2010. The increases were primarily driven by fuel expenses, which rose by $95 million in the fourth quarter and $510 million for the year, and higher costs associated with increased traffic volumes.
Income from railway operations increased 25 percent for the quarter to $800 million and improved 20 percent to a record $3.2 billion for the year, compared with the same periods of 2010.
Fourth-quarter 2011 results included $11 million in deferred income tax benefits attributable to state tax law changes. The year included $68 million of favorable, non-recurring income tax benefits.
The fourth-quarter railway operating ratio improved by 2 percent to 71.4 percent compared with the same period last year. For 2011, the railway operating ratio improved by 1 percent to 71.2 percent compared with 2010.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 ( michael.hostutler@nscorp.com )
Monday, January 23, 2012
Extension of Heartland Corridor from Columbus to Cincinnati, Ohio, benefits Port of Virginia
Received the following via email.
January 19, 2012
Extension of Heartland Corridor from Columbus to Cincinnati, Ohio, benefits Port of Virginia
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern has cleared the way for more double-stack intermodal trains to use its Heartland Corridor with the opening this week of a newly improved double-stack rail line between Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio. The Heartland Connector will reduce transit times by one to two days and increase service reliability for double-stack freight traveling to and from the Port of Virginia and Cincinnati and Detroit.
The improvements also will provide Norfolk Southern with the potential to connect Ohio Valley markets to other major East Coast container ports.
The Heartland Connector project is a public-private partnership among Norfolk Southern, Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio Rail Development Commission, and Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Council of Governments to upgrade the NS rail line to accommodate double-stack trains. Previously, containers only could be single-stacked on trains moving over the connector.
The project included raising clearances at five locations along the 124-mile route between Cincinnati and Columbus and adding tracks at Norfolk Southern’s Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal near Columbus. Prior to the upgrades, double-stack intermodal trains leaving the Port of Virginia for Cincinnati and Detroit followed longer routes through Tennessee or Pennsylvania. Now, double-stack trains bound for Detroit use a route that is 212 miles shorter, and trains traveling to Cincinnati travel 69 fewer miles and save up to two days transit time.
Financial support for the $6.1 million project included $3.6 million from the federal government combined with matching contributions from Norfolk Southern and the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Council of Governments.
“The Rail Commission is very happy to have been able to facilitate this very important infrastructure project that builds on previous investments and further solidifies Ohio’s position in the global supply chain,” said Matthew Dietrich, executive director of the Ohio Rail Development Commission.
“Routing trains over the Heartland Connector improves transit times and allows Norfolk Southern to provide more reliable service and handle additional intermodal freight,” said Jeff Heller, NS group vice president international intermodal marketing. “The Heartland Connector is significant for the Port of Virginia because it increases the efficiency of the Heartland Corridor to move goods to and from Ohio and other Midwest consumer markets and adds to the competitiveness of the Hampton Roads region.”
Norfolk Southern’s Heartland Corridor is the shortest, fastest double-stack route from the Port of Virginia to the Midwest. A single NS intermodal train takes up to 300 trucks off America's highways, reducing traffic congestion and repair costs. In addition, rail transportation is nearly four times more fuel efficient than trucking, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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:
(Customers) Chris Luebbers, 757-823-5279 (chris.luebbers@nscorp.com)
(Media) David Pidgeon, 717-541-2247 (david.pidgeon@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
January 19, 2012
Extension of Heartland Corridor from Columbus to Cincinnati, Ohio, benefits Port of Virginia
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern has cleared the way for more double-stack intermodal trains to use its Heartland Corridor with the opening this week of a newly improved double-stack rail line between Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio. The Heartland Connector will reduce transit times by one to two days and increase service reliability for double-stack freight traveling to and from the Port of Virginia and Cincinnati and Detroit.
The improvements also will provide Norfolk Southern with the potential to connect Ohio Valley markets to other major East Coast container ports.
The Heartland Connector project is a public-private partnership among Norfolk Southern, Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio Rail Development Commission, and Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Council of Governments to upgrade the NS rail line to accommodate double-stack trains. Previously, containers only could be single-stacked on trains moving over the connector.
The project included raising clearances at five locations along the 124-mile route between Cincinnati and Columbus and adding tracks at Norfolk Southern’s Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal near Columbus. Prior to the upgrades, double-stack intermodal trains leaving the Port of Virginia for Cincinnati and Detroit followed longer routes through Tennessee or Pennsylvania. Now, double-stack trains bound for Detroit use a route that is 212 miles shorter, and trains traveling to Cincinnati travel 69 fewer miles and save up to two days transit time.
Financial support for the $6.1 million project included $3.6 million from the federal government combined with matching contributions from Norfolk Southern and the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Council of Governments.
“The Rail Commission is very happy to have been able to facilitate this very important infrastructure project that builds on previous investments and further solidifies Ohio’s position in the global supply chain,” said Matthew Dietrich, executive director of the Ohio Rail Development Commission.
“Routing trains over the Heartland Connector improves transit times and allows Norfolk Southern to provide more reliable service and handle additional intermodal freight,” said Jeff Heller, NS group vice president international intermodal marketing. “The Heartland Connector is significant for the Port of Virginia because it increases the efficiency of the Heartland Corridor to move goods to and from Ohio and other Midwest consumer markets and adds to the competitiveness of the Hampton Roads region.”
Norfolk Southern’s Heartland Corridor is the shortest, fastest double-stack route from the Port of Virginia to the Midwest. A single NS intermodal train takes up to 300 trucks off America's highways, reducing traffic congestion and repair costs. In addition, rail transportation is nearly four times more fuel efficient than trucking, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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:
(Customers) Chris Luebbers, 757-823-5279 (chris.luebbers@nscorp.com)
(Media) David Pidgeon, 717-541-2247 (david.pidgeon@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
Who says CSX isn't interesting???!!!
Received the following via email from Kermit Geary, Jr. Text, photos, and captions are his.
Been working the past week on CSX between Cleveland, OH and Buffalo, NY and will be between Hamburg and Rochester this next week on the SRS 956. Saw some real interesting trains and locomotives.
The UP 5471 led the Selkirk-North Platte unit Reefer train west at Bergen, NY today...1/20/2012
The CSXT 999 (you could smell the paint!) led an intermodal eastbound at Corfu, NY...1/20/2012
CSXT 8351 - 8040 (TWO Standard cab EMD'S) on an eastbound multilevel train...1/20/2012
Freightliner 70019 was on a QTTX car Westbound thru Cleveland, OH on its way to Philadelphia and a ship to England. 1/19/2012. Seems like a long way to get to Philadelphia....
Been working the past week on CSX between Cleveland, OH and Buffalo, NY and will be between Hamburg and Rochester this next week on the SRS 956. Saw some real interesting trains and locomotives.
The UP 5471 led the Selkirk-North Platte unit Reefer train west at Bergen, NY today...1/20/2012
The CSXT 999 (you could smell the paint!) led an intermodal eastbound at Corfu, NY...1/20/2012
CSXT 8351 - 8040 (TWO Standard cab EMD'S) on an eastbound multilevel train...1/20/2012
Freightliner 70019 was on a QTTX car Westbound thru Cleveland, OH on its way to Philadelphia and a ship to England. 1/19/2012. Seems like a long way to get to Philadelphia....
UP 5471 & train at Bergen, NY
CSXT 999 - 998 at Corfu, NY
CSXT 8351 - 8040 stopped at East Churchville, NY for a stuck brake
Freightliner 70019 at Cleveland, OH
Sunday, January 15, 2012
NS's Pier 6 handles largest coal loading in its 50-year history
Received the following via email.
Jan. 13, 2012
Norfolk Southern’s Pier 6 handles largest coal loading in its 50-year history
NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern has loaded the largest volume cargo in the history of its Pier 6 coal transloading facility at Lamberts Point in Norfolk.
Early yesterday morning, Norfolk Southern finished loading 159,941.45 net tons (145,097.931 metric tons) of metallurgical coal into the M/V Cape Dover, destined for China. That quantity can be used to make about 207,000 tons of steel – enough to build 230,000 automobiles. The coal was shipped by Xcoal Energy & Resources in conjunction with CONSOL Energy, from mining operations in Virginia, in 1,561 railroad coal cars. T. Parker Host was the ship agent/broker.
Norfolk Southern employees loaded the 951-foot vessel in fewer than 48 hours in order to accommodate a tight schedule for the receiver. “This is the kind of capacity and service that makes Pier 6 the preeminent coal transloading facility on the East Coast,” said Mark H. Bower, NS group vice president, export, metallurgical, and industrial coal marketing. “Worldwide demand for U.S. coal for utilities and coke plants continues to grow, and the railroad is the reliable and safe link that, with our coal production and sales partners, brings that energy to market around the globe.”
The loading of the M/V Cape Dover eclipsed the former record of 157,645 net tons for the M/V Irongate in 1998 as well as the 155,522 net tons into the M/V Cape Provence in December 2010.
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, and Pennsylvania. 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 that 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 20,000 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) Michael Hostutler 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
Jan. 13, 2012
Norfolk Southern’s Pier 6 handles largest coal loading in its 50-year history
NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern has loaded the largest volume cargo in the history of its Pier 6 coal transloading facility at Lamberts Point in Norfolk.
Early yesterday morning, Norfolk Southern finished loading 159,941.45 net tons (145,097.931 metric tons) of metallurgical coal into the M/V Cape Dover, destined for China. That quantity can be used to make about 207,000 tons of steel – enough to build 230,000 automobiles. The coal was shipped by Xcoal Energy & Resources in conjunction with CONSOL Energy, from mining operations in Virginia, in 1,561 railroad coal cars. T. Parker Host was the ship agent/broker.
Norfolk Southern employees loaded the 951-foot vessel in fewer than 48 hours in order to accommodate a tight schedule for the receiver. “This is the kind of capacity and service that makes Pier 6 the preeminent coal transloading facility on the East Coast,” said Mark H. Bower, NS group vice president, export, metallurgical, and industrial coal marketing. “Worldwide demand for U.S. coal for utilities and coke plants continues to grow, and the railroad is the reliable and safe link that, with our coal production and sales partners, brings that energy to market around the globe.”
The loading of the M/V Cape Dover eclipsed the former record of 157,645 net tons for the M/V Irongate in 1998 as well as the 155,522 net tons into the M/V Cape Provence in December 2010.
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, and Pennsylvania. 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 that 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 20,000 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) Michael Hostutler 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
Thursday, January 12, 2012
CSX Offers Rail-Ready Sites for Industrial Development
Received the following via email.
CSX Offers Pre-Certified, Rail-Ready Sites for Fast-Track Industrial Development
JACKSONVILLE, FLA. - January 10, 2012 - CSX has introduced a new program, CSX Select Sites, offering customers an easy way to access certified, rail-ready properties for a variety of industrial uses.
The company invites interested parties to view its new web page with easy-to-use, GIS-enabled search features that show high-resolution views of topography, rail and road layouts, and other significant characteristics of each Select Site parcel. For detailed profiles of CSX Select Site properties, search "Select Sites" at the company's web site at http://www.csx.com/. Or click the "Customers" tab, then "New to CSX or Rail?" followed by "Regional Development."
The CSX Select Site designation indicates "green light" properties along the CSX network where projects can move forward rapidly because all known risk factors have been identified and potential issues resolved.
"Ultimately, these sites will represent many of the best manufacturing properties along CSX's rail network in the eastern U.S.," said Clark Robertson, CSX Assistant Vice President-Regional Development. "The Select Site designation promotes shorter decision timelines, increased speed to market and lower up-front development risk for companies seeking industrial property to place their manufacturing operations.
"All of the data suggest manufacturers prefer certainty in their selection of new plant locations," Robertson said. "We intend to assist communities across the network to identify sites that can provide certainty and compete effectively for these new investments and jobs."
To receive the CSX Select Site designation, the sites - from 100 to 1,000 acres - must meet a rigorous list of key criteria, including infrastructure and utility availability, environmental reviews, appropriate zoning and entitlement, air quality permitting, rail serviceability, proximity to highways or interstates and other attributes. CSX has partnered with The Austin Company, a nationally known site selection and certification consulting firm, to screen candidate sites and assist communities with the application and certification process.
"The web site's simple navigation and stable of pre-qualified rail ready sites make this the new gold standard in certified site programs," said Don Schjeldahl, Vice President of The Austin Company. "The program certifies rail ready and development ready properties of various sizes and features them on a website that is refreshing in its simplicity and a competitive leader in delivering information."
CSX welcomes inquiries about candidate sites from industrial property owners and economic development organizations. Thus far, five sites have been certified and 11 are in the certification process. Click on the "Have a Site?" button on the Select Site homepage to submit your property characteristics and request consideration for the Select Sites program. Designated CSX Select Sites will benefit from increased marketing exposure via the web site, press releases and promotion materials, and direct marketing to site selection professionals.
CSX has previously partnered with McCallum Sweeney Corporation to certify "Mega" sites - properties over 1,000 acres targeted to appeal primarily to automobile manufacturers. To date, CSX has assisted five communities across its network with a Megasite certification. A listing of CSX Certified Megasites can also be found on CSX's website.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Follow CSX on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).
Contact:
Gary Sease, Corporate Communications
1-877-TellCSX (877-835-5279)
CSX Offers Pre-Certified, Rail-Ready Sites for Fast-Track Industrial Development
JACKSONVILLE, FLA. - January 10, 2012 - CSX has introduced a new program, CSX Select Sites, offering customers an easy way to access certified, rail-ready properties for a variety of industrial uses.
The company invites interested parties to view its new web page with easy-to-use, GIS-enabled search features that show high-resolution views of topography, rail and road layouts, and other significant characteristics of each Select Site parcel. For detailed profiles of CSX Select Site properties, search "Select Sites" at the company's web site at http://www.csx.com/. Or click the "Customers" tab, then "New to CSX or Rail?" followed by "Regional Development."
The CSX Select Site designation indicates "green light" properties along the CSX network where projects can move forward rapidly because all known risk factors have been identified and potential issues resolved.
"Ultimately, these sites will represent many of the best manufacturing properties along CSX's rail network in the eastern U.S.," said Clark Robertson, CSX Assistant Vice President-Regional Development. "The Select Site designation promotes shorter decision timelines, increased speed to market and lower up-front development risk for companies seeking industrial property to place their manufacturing operations.
"All of the data suggest manufacturers prefer certainty in their selection of new plant locations," Robertson said. "We intend to assist communities across the network to identify sites that can provide certainty and compete effectively for these new investments and jobs."
To receive the CSX Select Site designation, the sites - from 100 to 1,000 acres - must meet a rigorous list of key criteria, including infrastructure and utility availability, environmental reviews, appropriate zoning and entitlement, air quality permitting, rail serviceability, proximity to highways or interstates and other attributes. CSX has partnered with The Austin Company, a nationally known site selection and certification consulting firm, to screen candidate sites and assist communities with the application and certification process.
"The web site's simple navigation and stable of pre-qualified rail ready sites make this the new gold standard in certified site programs," said Don Schjeldahl, Vice President of The Austin Company. "The program certifies rail ready and development ready properties of various sizes and features them on a website that is refreshing in its simplicity and a competitive leader in delivering information."
CSX welcomes inquiries about candidate sites from industrial property owners and economic development organizations. Thus far, five sites have been certified and 11 are in the certification process. Click on the "Have a Site?" button on the Select Site homepage to submit your property characteristics and request consideration for the Select Sites program. Designated CSX Select Sites will benefit from increased marketing exposure via the web site, press releases and promotion materials, and direct marketing to site selection professionals.
CSX has previously partnered with McCallum Sweeney Corporation to certify "Mega" sites - properties over 1,000 acres targeted to appeal primarily to automobile manufacturers. To date, CSX has assisted five communities across its network with a Megasite certification. A listing of CSX Certified Megasites can also be found on CSX's website.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Follow CSX on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).
Contact:
Gary Sease, Corporate Communications
1-877-TellCSX (877-835-5279)
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
NYS&W Slide Show Presentation
Received the following via email.
You are invited!
NYS&W Slide Show Presentation
The Oldest Model Railroad Club in America
The New York Society of Model Engineers (NYSME) will be hosting noted rail historian and author Bob Mohowski as he comes to speak about the New York, Susquehanna, and Western Railroad. Bob will be giving a presentation which will feature photos of the NYS&W taken by John Treen. Mr. Treen worked as an employee for the railroad for over 40 years. John often has his camera with him to record the daily operations on the Susie Q. The presentation will be a combination of slides and digital photos.
Date & Time: Friday, January 13, 2012 at 8:00pm. Doors open 7:30pm
Location: Rutherford Ambulance Corps Meeting Room
44 Ames Ave., Rutherford, NJ
There is a parking lot directly across the street or if you come by train, one block from the Rutherford Train Station.
Additional Details: http://www.modelengineers.org/
Admission: FREE
The location is only ½ mile from the Meadowlands Sports Complex and Giants / Jets Stadium. (Now MetLife Stadium)
Feel free to pass this on to others.
====================================================================
Founded in the early part of the 20th. Century and incorporated in 1926, the New York Society of Model Engineers is the oldest model railroad club in the United States and possibly the world. Located within our 5,000 square foot building are two large model train layouts, "HO" and "O" scale, a fully equipped machine shop and large library. The Society is located at 341 Hoboken Road , Carlstadt , NJ less then 1 mile from the Giants and Jets Stadium. (Now MetLife Stadium)
Membership is open to anyone with an interest in model trains or just trains.
You are invited!
NYS&W Slide Show Presentation
The Oldest Model Railroad Club in America
The New York Society of Model Engineers (NYSME) will be hosting noted rail historian and author Bob Mohowski as he comes to speak about the New York, Susquehanna, and Western Railroad. Bob will be giving a presentation which will feature photos of the NYS&W taken by John Treen. Mr. Treen worked as an employee for the railroad for over 40 years. John often has his camera with him to record the daily operations on the Susie Q. The presentation will be a combination of slides and digital photos.
Date & Time: Friday, January 13, 2012 at 8:00pm. Doors open 7:30pm
Location: Rutherford Ambulance Corps Meeting Room
44 Ames Ave., Rutherford, NJ
There is a parking lot directly across the street or if you come by train, one block from the Rutherford Train Station.
Additional Details: http://www.modelengineers.org/
Admission: FREE
The location is only ½ mile from the Meadowlands Sports Complex and Giants / Jets Stadium. (Now MetLife Stadium)
Feel free to pass this on to others.
====================================================================
Founded in the early part of the 20th. Century and incorporated in 1926, the New York Society of Model Engineers is the oldest model railroad club in the United States and possibly the world. Located within our 5,000 square foot building are two large model train layouts, "HO" and "O" scale, a fully equipped machine shop and large library. The Society is located at 341 Hoboken Road , Carlstadt , NJ less then 1 mile from the Giants and Jets Stadium. (Now MetLife Stadium)
Membership is open to anyone with an interest in model trains or just trains.
Sunday, January 08, 2012
CSX Statement - Northwest Indiana
Received the following via email.
January 06, 2012
CSX Statement - Northwest Indiana
Three CSX trains collided in Porter County in Northwest Indiana, about 2:15 p.m. (EST) Friday. Two employees on one train had non-life threatening injuries and have been taken to an area hospital. The trains carried a wide variety of freight including 3 rail cars of flammable products. Also in the incident are a number of empty hazardous materials cars.
The company's primary focus is public safety and working closely with responders to bring this situation under control.
We are working to determine the total number of derailed cars. No significant leaks or spills of hazardous materials appear to have occurred but inspections of all loaded and empty hazardous materials cars are under way.
We deeply appreciate the rapid and thorough response of the area's police, fire and other first responders.
January 06, 2012
CSX Statement - Northwest Indiana
Three CSX trains collided in Porter County in Northwest Indiana, about 2:15 p.m. (EST) Friday. Two employees on one train had non-life threatening injuries and have been taken to an area hospital. The trains carried a wide variety of freight including 3 rail cars of flammable products. Also in the incident are a number of empty hazardous materials cars.
The company's primary focus is public safety and working closely with responders to bring this situation under control.
We are working to determine the total number of derailed cars. No significant leaks or spills of hazardous materials appear to have occurred but inspections of all loaded and empty hazardous materials cars are under way.
We deeply appreciate the rapid and thorough response of the area's police, fire and other first responders.
Friday, January 06, 2012
Woodland Scenics Update: Fire
Received the following via email from Woodland Scenics.
Dear all,
As you may have heard we have experienced a fire here at Woodland Scenics and there is good news and bad news. The good news is that no one was hurt during the fire or evacuation process. The bad news is that it took out a couple of our manufacturing buildings. However, and fortunately, there is more good news than bad.
We encompass multiple buildings that are spread out all over the town of Linn Creek. We only lost two of those buildings and those two contained just a small portion of our manufacturing facilities. Our shipping department, warehouse and corporate offices were spared any damage, as were most of our manufacturing buildings, so it is business as usual.
Thanks for all your concerns.
Respectfully,
Gale Cousins
Director of Sales & Customer Service
Woodland Scenics
Here is a link to a news story from a TV station in Springfield, MO about this fire.
http://www.ky3.com/news/ky3-story-woodlandscenics-010511,0,444951.story
Dear all,
As you may have heard we have experienced a fire here at Woodland Scenics and there is good news and bad news. The good news is that no one was hurt during the fire or evacuation process. The bad news is that it took out a couple of our manufacturing buildings. However, and fortunately, there is more good news than bad.
We encompass multiple buildings that are spread out all over the town of Linn Creek. We only lost two of those buildings and those two contained just a small portion of our manufacturing facilities. Our shipping department, warehouse and corporate offices were spared any damage, as were most of our manufacturing buildings, so it is business as usual.
Thanks for all your concerns.
Respectfully,
Gale Cousins
Director of Sales & Customer Service
Woodland Scenics
Here is a link to a news story from a TV station in Springfield, MO about this fire.
http://www.ky3.com/news/ky3-story-woodlandscenics-010511,0,444951.story
CSX Express - Customers Locate on CSX in 17 States in 2011
Received the following via email.
Customers Locate on CSX in 17 States in 2011
New or Expanded Facilities Create Jobs and Economic Stimulus
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - January 5, 2012 - Customers across manufacturing, consumer goods, energy and other markets committed to 124 new or expanded facilities on CSX and its short line railroad partners in 2011, driving job growth and other economic benefits in 17 states.
The new or expanded facilities represent nearly $1.4 billion in customer investment.
"Despite ongoing economic uncertainty during 2011, our customers continue to demonstrate strong interest in rail service and CSX in particular," said Clark Robertson, Assistant Vice President-Regional Development. "It is testimony to the underlying value proposition that rail offers."
The facilities will be built or expanded on CSX lines and on some of the more than 240 short lines and regional railroads that connect to CSX. Ultimately, these facilities will contribute more than $230 million in
annual revenue to CSX, Robertson said.
For many customers, railroad fuel efficiency is an important factor when it comes to choosing transportation, and CSX trains are capable of moving a ton of freight nearly 500 miles on a gallon of fuel. That means significantly lower carbon emissions than trucks. Another factor is connectivity to marine ports, and CSX reaches more than 70 ocean, lake and river ports.
CSX also offers its certified Select Site program to manufacturing firms seeking new plant locations along CSX's network, as well as track design and logistics expertise. The company's TRANSFLO transload services offer a way for non-rail served shippers to connect to the North American rail network. Contact a regional development expert by clicking on the Customer tab on http://www.csx.com/.
Here are the states in which new or expanded facilities will be built, the jobs expected, and the investments made by customers.
State - Jobs Created - Customer Investment
Alabama - 115 - $8,220,000
Florida - 180 - $165,586,000
Georgia - 157 - $69,550,000
Illinois - 0 - $3,750,000
Indiana - 27 - $73,000,000
Massachusetts - 17 - $3,281,000
Maryland - 100 - $600,000
Michigan - 242 - $70,150,000
North Carolina - 348 - $385,220,000
New Jersey - 27 - $2,804,100
New York - 63 - $9,540,000
Ohio - 258 - $43,900,000
Pennsylvania - 5 - $822,000
South Carolina - 152 - $30,300,000
Tennessee - 5 - $1,000,000
Virginia - 8 - $2,000,000
West Virginia - 77 - $515,000,000
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/.
Follow CSX on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).
Contact:
Gary Sease, Corporate Communications
1-877-TELLCSX (1-877-835-5279)
Customers Locate on CSX in 17 States in 2011
New or Expanded Facilities Create Jobs and Economic Stimulus
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - January 5, 2012 - Customers across manufacturing, consumer goods, energy and other markets committed to 124 new or expanded facilities on CSX and its short line railroad partners in 2011, driving job growth and other economic benefits in 17 states.
The new or expanded facilities represent nearly $1.4 billion in customer investment.
"Despite ongoing economic uncertainty during 2011, our customers continue to demonstrate strong interest in rail service and CSX in particular," said Clark Robertson, Assistant Vice President-Regional Development. "It is testimony to the underlying value proposition that rail offers."
The facilities will be built or expanded on CSX lines and on some of the more than 240 short lines and regional railroads that connect to CSX. Ultimately, these facilities will contribute more than $230 million in
annual revenue to CSX, Robertson said.
For many customers, railroad fuel efficiency is an important factor when it comes to choosing transportation, and CSX trains are capable of moving a ton of freight nearly 500 miles on a gallon of fuel. That means significantly lower carbon emissions than trucks. Another factor is connectivity to marine ports, and CSX reaches more than 70 ocean, lake and river ports.
CSX also offers its certified Select Site program to manufacturing firms seeking new plant locations along CSX's network, as well as track design and logistics expertise. The company's TRANSFLO transload services offer a way for non-rail served shippers to connect to the North American rail network. Contact a regional development expert by clicking on the Customer tab on http://www.csx.com/.
Here are the states in which new or expanded facilities will be built, the jobs expected, and the investments made by customers.
State - Jobs Created - Customer Investment
Alabama - 115 - $8,220,000
Florida - 180 - $165,586,000
Georgia - 157 - $69,550,000
Illinois - 0 - $3,750,000
Indiana - 27 - $73,000,000
Massachusetts - 17 - $3,281,000
Maryland - 100 - $600,000
Michigan - 242 - $70,150,000
North Carolina - 348 - $385,220,000
New Jersey - 27 - $2,804,100
New York - 63 - $9,540,000
Ohio - 258 - $43,900,000
Pennsylvania - 5 - $822,000
South Carolina - 152 - $30,300,000
Tennessee - 5 - $1,000,000
Virginia - 8 - $2,000,000
West Virginia - 77 - $515,000,000
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/.
Follow CSX on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).
Contact:
Gary Sease, Corporate Communications
1-877-TELLCSX (1-877-835-5279)
NS to host fourth-quarter 2011 earnings conference call
Received the following via email.
January 4, 2012
Norfolk Southern to host fourth-quarter 2011 earnings conference call
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation will present its fourth-quarter 2011 earnings on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at 4:30 p.m. EST via teleconference and live Internet webcast. The company will issue its earnings results shortly after market close on Jan. 24.
Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial 877-869-3847 several minutes prior to the call. An audio replay will be available until Jan. 31, 2012, following the live broadcast, by dialing 877-660-6853, using PIN 2861, and replay number 385544.
In conjunction with the call, a live webcast will be accessible, and presentation materials will be posted 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 website. 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 on the website 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.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
January 4, 2012
Norfolk Southern to host fourth-quarter 2011 earnings conference call
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation will present its fourth-quarter 2011 earnings on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at 4:30 p.m. EST via teleconference and live Internet webcast. The company will issue its earnings results shortly after market close on Jan. 24.
Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial 877-869-3847 several minutes prior to the call. An audio replay will be available until Jan. 31, 2012, following the live broadcast, by dialing 877-660-6853, using PIN 2861, and replay number 385544.
In conjunction with the call, a live webcast will be accessible, and presentation materials will be posted 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 website. 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 on the website 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.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 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) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)