Thursday, August 30, 2012

CSX Donates $75,000 to Red Cross for Isaac Preparations

Received the following via email.

CSX Corporation Donates $75,000 to Red Cross for Isaac Preparations

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - August 27, 2012 - In advance of the projected Gulf Coast landfall of Tropical Storm Isaac, CSX Corporation has made a $75,000 contribution to the Red Cross to use where there is the greatest need in this or future storms.

"While the exact track of the storm remains uncertain, what is certain is that the Red Cross and other relief organizations are preparing now and need resources," said Michael J. Ward, CSX chairman, president and chief executive officer. "As the employees of CSX prepare our transportation network for Isaac, we wish to help our communities through the vital efforts of the Red Cross."

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. CSX's network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook(http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Carla Groleau
1 (877) TELL-CSX

NS Heritage unit 1073 on Home Rails!

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

After chasing the 765, we were lucky and found the NS 1073 (Penn Central) Heritage unit on a trash train heading to New Jersey. Provided us with a very spirited chase from Huntingdon, PA to Cove, PA!!


NS 1073 at Huntingdon, PA 8-20-2012


NS 1073 at Mount Union, PA 8-20-2012


NS 1073 at Cove, PA 8-20-2012 
   

CSX CFO to Address Dahlman Rose & Company Global Transportation Conference

Received the following via email.

CSX Corporation Chief Financial Officer to Address Dahlman Rose & Company Global Transportation Conference

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - August 29, 2012 - Fredrik Eliasson, CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) executive vice president and chief financial officer, will address the Dahlman Rose & Company Global Transportation Conference in New York City on Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at 10:15 a.m. Eastern Time.

Access to the audio webcast will be available on CSX's website at http://investors.csx.com. A replay and accompanying audio will be available following the conclusion of this event. Additionally, presentation materials will be posted on the company's website.

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, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:

David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812

Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279

NS chief marketing officer to address Dahlman Rose and Co. and Deutsche Bank conferences

Received the following via email.

Aug. 24, 2012

Norfolk Southern chief marketing officer to address Dahlman Rose and Co. and Deutsche Bank conferences

NORFOLK, VA. – Donald W. Seale, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Norfolk Southern Corporation, will participate in two upcoming conferences:

Dahlman Rose and Co. Fifth Annual Global Transportation Conference
Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, 12:45 p.m. EDT
New York, N.Y.
Webcast URL: http://wsw.com/webcast/dahlman15/nsc

Deutsche Bank 2012 Aviation and Transportation Conference
Thursday, Sept. 6, 2012, 9:10 a.m. EDT
New York, N.Y.
Webcast URL: http://www.media-server.com/m/p/tfca2uur

Both presentations 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 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)

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

NKP 765 Storming West from Harrisburg on 8-20-2012

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

Got a chance to see the 765 in Harrisburg on Sunday and chase her west to South Fork, PA on Monday.  Weather was poor, poured rain on us at Gallitzin until just before train time, then was decent at South Fork.


NKP 765 at Cove, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at Old Ferry Station, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at Lewiston, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at Mattawana, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at Huntingdon, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at Tyrone, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at Gallitzen, PA 8-20-2012



NKP 765 at South Fork, PA 8-20-2012


Tuesday, August 28, 2012

NKP 765 in Harrisburg, PA area 8-19-2012

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

Spent Sunday, 8-19-2012, around the Harrisburg, PA area following the employee trips. Here are a few from the Rockville Bridge!  and  Here are a couple more from the Harrisburg trips on 8-19-2012.


NKP 765 on Rockville Bridge, Harrisburg, PA 8-19-2012



NKP 765 at signals on Rockville Bridge, Harrisburg, PA


NKP 765 on Rockville Bridge, Harrisburg, PA 8-19-2012


 
 NKP 765 & train passing Amtrak depot in Harrisburg, PA 8-19-2012

 
NKP 765 backing into Enola yards, PA 8-19-2012 

Friday, August 24, 2012

METCA Has Two Events This Weekend

Received the following newsletter via email from the Metropolitan Division of the Train Collectors Association, METCA. 




August 2012
METCA EVENTS


Annoucements!!

Clinton Diner Mini-Meet
The Clinton Diner Mini-Meet was rained out Last W/E
It's on This W/E August 25, 2012,  10 A - 4 P 


RMLI Riverhead Railfest
Look for the METCA table at the RMLI Riverhead Railfest
August 25-26, 2012 10AM - 4PM.

METCA will have 3 modules at the COL module setup!

Look for the METCA Kids Club Drag Races at the RMLI Riverhead Railfest
August 25-26, 2012 11AM - 3PM
Get the Flyer here.



NEW METCA SHOW ON Long Island!
Don't miss the Freeport Rec Center Train Show on Saturday September 15, 2012
There are still a few tables available. You snooze you lose!!

Get the Flyer Here


Look for A New METCA MIGS Benefit at the end of this E-News!
 


METCA Annual Banquet November 3, 2012
Were you at METCA's 50th Anniversary Banquet at the the NEW Jersey HiRailers last year?
We had such a blast that we are doing it again! (Not the anniversary, just the party!)
The NJ Hirailers are once again hosting!

Get the Flyer here for all the particulars.


Howard Beach Show
The Howard Beach Show is set for November 17, 2012 at St Helen's Hall
Get the Flyer Here 



Mt. Arlington Show
METCA is returning to Northern NJ on December 9, 2012.
Get the Flyer Here 


How Can You Help METCA?

You can help METCA "Get The Word Out" right from the comfort of your own home.

Does your employer, union, benevolent association, fraternal organization have a newsletter? Is there a classified or do they accept articles / input from members? If you are able to input to any publication please contact Bob Amling at nyshows@metca.org. I'll even write the ad, or short article for your submission if you prefer.

Are you also an LCCA member? On the front of the LCCA Interchange Track they are asking for input about "other" shows in your area. PLEASE send information about METCA Trainshows to the LCCA!! If you need any information please contact Bob Amling at nyshows@metca.org.

Are you or a family member on Facebook? Visit METCA's
Facebook page and click LIKE THIS, that will give the METCA Facebook website a boost; while pushing our information out there!



Donations

The Train Doctor has announced that he will donate 10% of all proceeds of repairs made at METCA's shows during 2012 to the 2015 TCA Convention Fund. So bring in those repairs, and support the 2015 TCA Convention!

You can also support the convention by making direct donations here.

2015 TCA Convention
Stay connected to the 2015 TCA Convention Planning by subscribing to the TCA 2015 Convention Yahoo Group and visiting the TCA 2015 Convention Webpage.

METCA Division Cars
Order Your 2013 Mint Cars Now!

The Blue Comet was the Central Railroad of New Jersey’s premium method of travel between Jersey City’s Communipaw Avenue Railroad Terminal and Atlantic City. METCA, the Metropolitan Division of the Train Collectors Association, has incorporated this paint scheme, along with design references to the Statue of Liberty from the CNJ logo, into one of our 2013 Division Cars. This new Limited Production 6-58523 METCA Blue Comet Mint Car has blue painted trucks and includes a gold bullion bar load. This car is the perfect companion to Lionel’s 2012 Blue Comet release or any of their previous Blue Comet releases.


Taking design clues from Lionel’s postwar 2341 Jersey Central FM Trainmaster, METCA, the Metropolitan Division of the Train Collectors Association, has incorporated this paint scheme into our other 2013 Division Car, the 6-58534 METCA Jersey Central Mint Car. This car includes a copper plated load, symbolizing the transporting of copper plates for the maintenance of one of our nation’s most recognized symbols … the Statue of Liberty. This car is the perfect companion to any Jersey Central FM Trainmaster.

These cars are the perfect companions to METCA’s ongoing railroad themed Heritage Mint Car Series©. The cars are 100% Lionel made & decorated and feature die-cast sprung trucks/couplers, a metal brake wheel, and a metal frame. These cars are scheduled for delivery in early summer of 2013. There is no deadline to order, but only orders received by October 30, 2012 can be guaranteed. Previous cars in the Series have all Sold Out, so don’t wait until the last minute to order!

Download the 2013 order form here!


METCA Excess Baggage Terminal

BUYER BEWARE!
You use this Buy / Sell / Trade List at your own risk.

This list is provided by METCA as a free service To METCA MIGS.
METCA cannot vouch for the accuracy of items posted here.

TCA Rules apply, all listings must include Members Name, TCA #, phone or email.
Each item MUST BE graded and priced per TCA Guidelines.
Listings are limited to 25 items per member.
METCA and this E-News Editor reserve the right to edit / delete/ or refuse listings without prior notice .
Submit your entries to secretary@metca.org. mark the subject line; Sell / Trade/ Wanted.
Submit your pictures on the METCA yahoo group
Entries and pictures will be removed 3 months after posting or upon the issuance of a subsequent E-Blast.
E-Blasts occur for the E-Waybill and Show Announcements. Show Announcements are sent to all TCA members in the METCA Division.

For Sale
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1977 Service Station Set Budd cars, 6-8766/67/68. All C-8 - 9 with orig. boxes and master carton P-9 $200

1979 PP&L "Reddy Watt" quad hopper 6-9338 C7 / P-2 $70
2001 Circus Stock car white Postwar Classic repro #6376 C-8 /P-2 $38.00
2002 Circus Operating Sweep car "Performing Pachyderms" #36712 C7 / P-2 $38.00
2002 Circus "Ballyhoo Brothers" caboose #26577 C-8 /P-2 $18.00
Shipping and Insurance is extra except where noted
Scot Kienzlen 973-945-1401 TCA #90-30653
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Weaver 50’ Tank Car Kit Black white lettering – no trucks or couplers C-9 / P-9 $15

Early Atlas Plastic Great Northern Hicube light Blue White Lettering O Scale C-9 / No Box
Kramer Bros shell & frame F3B Tuscan w PA Stripes C-9 no Box $50 SOLD
Kramer Bros shell & frame F3B unpainted shell C-9 no Box $50 SOLD
Walthers O Scale Decals, 4 sets Burlington Northern Freight packs 1 open unused others sealed P-9, 4pk $20 shipped CONUS.
Thomas 438 Signal Tower Red / White/ Silver C-10 except for small ding under eves. See picture Thomas 438_4. As delivered in original shipping carton, no box. $100
Lionel 6-2383 with custom F3 AA Western Pacific cabs (Kramer Bros?). 1 motor, 1 MPC chassis, R-5 no boxes. $225
K-751404 K-line Dragon Stout Reefer C-10 / P8 Labatt’s Box $15
6-29232 Lenny the Lion Hi cube box car (1 of 468 produced), Signed by Lenny Dean, C-10 / P-10, $100
Marx 666 cast steam engine for parts value cab is C-8 bent axle, no tender, no box $25
Hafner Boxcar body BX32, No Doors no wheels or couplers, frame has been customized. C-5 no box, $5
Marx NYC 4 wheel tender body C-8, no wheels or couplers, $5
Comet car communication module as is, see pics. $35
METCA Division Cars All sold out by METCA
TOFC Convention Fundraiser Set of 3; 6-58501-METCA-TOFC-REA, 6-58502-METCA-TOFC-NYC 6-58503, METCA-TOFC-Showroom Layout Delivery Service - Only 100 SETS Made by Lionel C-10 / P-10 Factory Sealed $325.
6-52596 LIONEL METCA Long Island Rail Road Mint Car, C-10 / P-10, 1 of 500 $95
6-52574 LIONEL METCA 50th Anniversary Fort Knox Mint Car, C-10 / P-10, 1 of 500 $95
6-52583 LIONEL METCA Baltimore & Ohio Mint Car, C-10 / P-10, 1 of 500 $95
6-52488 LIONELMETCA New York Central Lightning Strip Mint Car, C-10 / P-10, 1 of 500 $95
6-52486 LIONELMETCA Green, and 6-52487 LIONELMETCA Tuscan Pennsylvania Mint Cars Set of two, C-10 / P-10, 1 of 500 $189
6-52485 LIONELMETCA New York Central Pacemaker Mint Car, C-10 / P-10, 1 of 500 $95
Shipping and Insurance is extra except where noted, i.e., decal set.
Bob Amling, 80-15029, rea.ra@verizon.net, 718-541-8619
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Wanted

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Wanted to Buy

Contents of Service Stations, Bulk parts, tooling, and complete inventories.
Rem Hunnewell 75-7642 Repairs@theTraindoctor.com 732-660-7062
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


Patronize our Supporters

The METCA BOD encourages you to patronize those members that support the production of the Waybill.
Ben Deutchman - Machine Shop and Repair Service
Charlie Hirschberg - Nassau Hobby Center L.I. Largest Train dealer
Rem Hunnewell - The Train Doctor - Authorized Service and upgrades
Joseph L Mania Train Reproductions and Restorations www.
Stu Rankin - Specializing in hard to find new era Lionel - Lionel Nation
David Shaw -The Train-Station Mountain Lakes, NJ
Island Trains II - A Theme Park for Model Railroaders

Bob Amling
METCA Secretary


Our mailing address is
Metropolitan Division Train Collectors Association (METCA)
2023 Coyle St
Brooklyn, NY 11229

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Mission accomplished!

(Train sightings on 8-18-12.)

I set out to photograph the NKP 765's initial excursion on Saturday morning as it approached the Linglestown Road Bridge in Harrisburg. Judging from the results, I would say that my goal to photograph this train seemed to be successful. Some images from Saturday's first run of NKP 765 along with a surprise guest later in the morning, NS's OCS for your enjoyment.


   





Wednesday, August 22, 2012

World's 2 Largest Railcars together for very first time

Received the following information and photos via email.  Photos are by Vince F. Skibo. 

Here are four pictures of WECX 800 and 801, the worlds largest railcars, sitting on Kasgro yard lead in New Castle, PA, on 8-16-12.  Over 3.76 million pounds of load-carrying capacity...in just TWO railcars! Cars now en route to the Carolinas for Westinghouse Nuclear vessel loads.

 
 
   
   


 
More photos and specs at following web site.

http://southern.railfan.net/schnabel/cars/wecx801/wecx801.html

CSX Police, Security Re-Accreditation Process Includes Call-in Sessions: Police Chief Urges Communities to Participate

Received the following via email.

CSX Police, Security Re-Accreditation Process Includes Call-in Sessions
Police Chief Urges Communities to Participate

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - August 17, 2012 - CSX's police and security team will meet with representatives of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA) as part of re-accreditation in law enforcement standards.

Currently, the CSX Police Department is the only U.S. based freight railroad police department to have met the more than 450 required best practice standards.

The re-accreditation process includes headquarters and field visits, and public access telephone call-in sessions during which people are invited to comment on their perceptions of CSX's police activities and the company's Public Safety Coordination Center.

"We invite the public to call in and participate in this process," said Jackie Litzinger, CSX chief of police. "We are very proud of our team, and very interested in what the communities in which we operate and serve have to say about our program."

Like other major railroads, CSX operates its own certified police force with commissioned railroad police officers to maintain the safety and security of the public and the freight entrusted to the railroad. The CSX Police Department has officers responsible for partnerships with police and public safety agencies in 23 states.

In addition to its traditional law enforcement duties, the police department also includes several specialty units including rapid response, environmental crimes, cargo theft and canine teams.

The re-accreditation includes a detailed review by CALEA representatives of strategic plans, human resources, equipment, evidence and property control, training, investigative procedures, and communications, among other areas.

The public is welcome to call in, toll-free at (877) 541-8531 from 2 to 4 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 29, to comment on CSX law enforcement activities.

In addition, CSX Public Safety Coordination Center, which handles incoming calls for emergency incidents, will host a separate public call-in session on Tuesday, Aug. 21 between 1 to 3 p.m. by calling in toll-free at (877) 541-8532. The center is staffed by specially trained personnel who can communicate quickly with company police officers and all critical company functions, government security agencies and first responders. Last year, the team managed nearly 300,000 calls.

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. CSX's network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

###

Contact:

Carla Groleau
1 (877) TELL-CSX

Monday, August 20, 2012

Largest Freighter on Great Lakes is Hard Aground

And now for something completely different.
Received the following via email.  Posting consists of two emails.

Subject: Largest Freighter on Great Lakes is Hard Aground

Crews working to free grounded 1,013-foot coal freighter blocking outbound channel of St. Marys River, linking lakes Superior and Huron.

Article includes a photo showing stern of the stranded, 1,013'-long, self-unloading vessel Paul R. Tregurtha, largest on the lakes:

http://www.cheboygannews.com/features/x821892477/Vessel-runs-aground-blocks-shipping?photo=0

This is not the first...nor even second...time that the enormous, reigning “Queen of the Lakes” has run aground (linked site also features dozens of photos of her throughout her sailing career):

http://www.boatnerd.com/pictures/fleet/prtrgrth.htm



Subject: Freighter stuck in St. Marys River

1,000-foot coal freighter stuck in St. Marys River

SAULT STE MARIE, Mich. (AP)  The U.S. Coast Guard says crews are working to free a 1,000-foot coal freighter grounded in the outbound channel of the St. Marys River that links lakes Superior and Huron.

The Coast Guard says the grounding happened about 3 a.m. Wednesday. It says there are no reports of injuries or pollution but says the vessel has sustained damage.

It says the Paul R. Tregurtha is owned by Interlake Shipping Co. of Richfield, Ohio, and carried about 62,000 tons of coal. The ship is grounded on the west side of Neebish Island in the channel that leads
to Lake Huron.

The Coast Guard says its personnel are working closely with the freighter's owners and others to determine the safest approach to re-floating the vessel.

NS announces expiration of early exchange period of previously announced exchange offers

Received the following via email.

August 16, 2012

Norfolk Southern announces expiration of early exchange period of previously announced exchange offers

NORFOLK, VA. — Norfolk Southern Corporation (the "Company") today announced the expiration of the early exchange period in connection with its offers (the "Exchange Offers") to certain eligible holders to exchange outstanding debt securities listed in the table below (collectively, the "Existing Notes") for cash and up to $600,000,000 aggregate principal amount (the "Overall Issue Amount") of the Company's 2.903% Notes due 2023 (the "New Notes"), the complete terms and conditions of which are set forth in a confidential Offering Memorandum, dated August 2, 2012 (the "Offering Memorandum"), and the related Letter of Transmittal.

In the Exchange Offers, according to information provided by D.F. King & Co., Inc., the exchange agent for the Exchange Offers, $549,593,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Company's Existing Notes were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on August 15, 2012 (the "Early Exchange Date"), as more fully set forth below. In accordance with the acceptance priority levels and proration procedures described in the Offering Memorandum, the Company will accept $521,445,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Existing Notes that were tendered for exchange at or prior to the Early Exchange Date. The Company expects to deliver an aggregate principal amount of $600,000,000 of New Notes and will pay an aggregate of $121,870,052.69 cash consideration, including accrued interest, for the Existing Notes accepted for exchange on August 20, 2012 (the "Early Settlement Date"). Since Existing Notes have been validly tendered so that the maximum amount of New Notes to be issued in exchange for such tendered Existing Notes exceeds the Overall Issue Amount, no additional Existing Notes will be accepted for exchange after the Early Exchange Date.

The table below indicates, among other things, the principal amount of each series of Existing Notes validly tendered as of the Early Exchange Date, the principal amount of Existing Notes to be accepted for exchange as of the Early Exchange Date and the percentage of the principal amount of Existing Notes to be accepted for exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offers:



(Not able to reproduce table for this blog. Suggest you try Investor contact listed below.)



The Exchange Offers are scheduled to expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on August 29, 2012 (the "Expiration Date"), unless extended or earlier terminated.

Tenders of Existing Notes in the Exchange Offers may no longer be withdrawn, except in certain limited circumstances where additional withdrawal rights are required by law. Consummation of the Exchange Offers is subject to a number of conditions as set forth in the Offering Memorandum, including the absence of certain adverse legal and market developments.

If and when issued, the New Notes will not have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or any state securities laws. The New Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States or to any U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. The Company will enter into a registration rights agreement with respect to the New Notes.

This news release does not constitute an offer or a solicitation by the Company to participate in the Exchange Offers in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation.

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.

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: transportation of hazardous materials as a common carrier by rail; acts of terrorism or war; general economic conditions; competition and consolidation within the transportation industry; the operations of carriers with which Norfolk Southern interchanges; disruptions to Norfolk Southern's technology infrastructure, including computer systems; labor difficulties, including strikes and work stoppages; commercial, operating, environmental, and climate change legislative and regulatory developments; 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 December 31, 2011 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) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

NS announces pricing of previously announced exchange offers and interest rate for new notes

Received the following via email.

August 15, 2012

Norfolk Southern announces pricing of previously announced exchange offers and interest rate for new notes

NORFOLK, VA. — Norfolk Southern Corporation (the "Company") today announced the pricing of its offers (the "Exchange Offers") to certain eligible holders to exchange outstanding debt securities listed in the table below (together, the "Existing Notes") for cash and up to $600,000,000 aggregate principal amount (the "Overall Issue Amount") of the Company's new Notes due 2023 (the "New Notes"), the complete terms and conditions of which are set forth in a confidential Offering Memorandum, dated August 2, 2012 (the "Offering Memorandum"), and the related Letter of Transmittal. The Company also announced that it will pay interest on the New Notes at a rate per annum equal to 2.903%, as calculated in accordance with the Offering Memorandum.

Existing Notes validly tendered and accepted by the Company at or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on August 15, 2012 (the "Early Exchange Date"), are expected to settle on August 20, 2012 (the "Early Settlement Date"), unless extended by the Company. Confirmation of the Early Settlement Date will be set forth in a subsequent press release.

The table below indicates, among other things, the Total Exchange Consideration for each $1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes tendered and accepted as of the Early Exchange Date pursuant to the Exchange Offers (as determined in accordance with the Offering Memorandum):



(Not able to reproduce table for this blog. Suggest you try Investor contact listed below.)



The Exchange Offers are scheduled to expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on August 29, 2012 (the "Expiration Date"), unless extended or earlier terminated. Holders of Existing Notes who tender their Existing Notes for New Notes and cash after the Early Exchange Date but prior to the Expiration Date will be eligible to receive the total exchange consideration minus the early exchange premium of $30 per $1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes tendered and accepted for exchange. In such case, the early exchange premium will be deducted from the cash portion of the total exchange consideration. The aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes accepted for exchange on the Early Settlement Date will reduce the amount of Existing Notes that may be accepted for exchange on any subsequent settlement date, as more fully set forth in the Offering Memorandum.

After 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on August 15, 2012, tenders of Existing Notes in the Exchange Offers may no longer be withdrawn, except in certain limited circumstances where additional withdrawal rights are required by law. Consummation of the Exchange Offers is subject to a number of conditions as set forth in the Offering Memorandum, including the absence of certain adverse legal and market developments.

If and when issued, the New Notes will not have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or any state securities laws. The New Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States or to any U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. The Company will enter into a registration rights agreement with respect to the New Notes.

This news release does not constitute an offer or a solicitation by the Company to participate in the Exchange Offers in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation.

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.

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: transportation of hazardous materials as a common carrier by rail; acts of terrorism or war; general economic conditions; competition and consolidation within the transportation industry; the operations of carriers with which Norfolk Southern interchanges; disruptions to Norfolk Southern’s technology infrastructure, including computer systems; labor difficulties, including strikes and work stoppages; commercial, operating, environmental, and climate change legislative and regulatory developments; 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 December 31, 2011 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) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

Thursday, August 16, 2012

CSX Intermodal Terminals Wins American Council of Engineering Companies Award

Received the following via email.

CSX Intermodal Terminals Wins American Council of Engineering Companies Award

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Aug. 13, 2012 - CSX Intermodal Terminals, Inc. (CSX) and EMH&T have won the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Ohio "2012 Engineering Excellence Outstanding Achievement Award" for the design of CSX Intermodal Terminal's Northwest Ohio intermodal terminal.

CSX worked closely with EMH&T to design the Northwest Ohio facility, which uses cutting-edge technologies and green design, including ultra-efficient electric cranes that lower emissions, optical scanners that reduce truck idling times and automated car tracking technologies and remote switches that increase operational efficiency.

"CSX is proud to accept this distinguished honor," said Wilby Whitt, president of CSX Intermodal  Terminals. "CSX appreciates the continued recognition of its efforts to provide innovative supply chain solutions for customers. This award reflects the company's focus on delivering the most environmentally-friendly and technologically-advanced intermodal service in North America."

The award was presented at the ACEC Ohio Annual Awards Luncheon in Columbus, Ohio. The state-wide competition evaluated a number of leading projects based on uniqueness, originality, technical value to the engineering profession, social and economic considerations, complexity, and how successfully the project met time and budget constraints.

The Northwest Ohio facility is a key component of the National Gateway initiative, a public-private partnership which supports the movement of double-stacked intermodal containers on rail cars by raising bridges, increasing tunnel clearances and building new terminals along existing rail routes. When complete, the National Gateway will improve service reliability and transit times, reduce highway congestion, and enhance the environment by converting more than 14 billion highway miles to rail and decreasing fuel consumption by nearly 2 billion gallons.

To learn more about the National Gateway, visit www.nationalgateway.org.

About CSX Intermodal Terminals
CSX Intermodal Terminals, Inc., a subsidiary of CSX Corporation in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading intermodal terminal operators, providing rail-to-truck and truck-to-rail transloading services. It operates more than 30 terminals across the eastern United States and Canada. More information about CSX Intermodal Terminals, Inc. and its affiliates is available at www.csxi.com.

About EMH&T
EMH&T is a full-service civil engineering and land surveying firm, supporting projects from inception to completion since 1926. The firm provides an array of rail engineering services for the design of mainline and siding projects, yards and terminals, and industrial sidetracks. Our services include comprehensive design of tracks, yards and intermodal facilities; bridges; facility planning and corridor selection; environmental services; civil works; and project and construction management. EMH&T is licensed in 22 states across the Midwest and Southeast. Learn more about EMH&T at www.emht.com.

Contact:
Carla Groleau
1 (877) TELL-CSX

NS highlights economic development in new television ad

Received the following via email.

Aug. 13, 2012

Norfolk Southern highlights economic development in new television ad

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern today launches a new television commercial that showcases the railroad’s role as a creator of economic possibilities – a powerful force for growth among the industries and communities served by the line.

“City of Possibilities” begins airing today in 30- and 60-second versions on CNN, Fox News, and other channels. It will run during the Republican and Democratic national conventions and through the presidential election in November, appearing as well in event sponsorships at the convention sites in Tampa Bay and Charlotte, and in various digital venues.

The spot is a whimsical portrayal of a boy and his dog, and the steady growth of a railroad-served community that springs up while they sleep.

In the last decade, NS has participated in the location and expansion of more than 1,000 factories, distribution facilities, and other businesses along its lines, representing an investment by NS customers of $30 billion and some 46,000 jobs.

“Norfolk Southern is a dependable partner for states and local economic development authorities on projects involving site selection and development of infrastructure to connect customers to our rail system,” said Donald W. Seale, NS executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “It’s not a stretch to say that, where the railroad goes, good things follow. We’re doing our part to keep the American economy strong, and we’re ready to do much more. That’s an incredibly positive message for the country and one that will be well received during the election season.”

The spot was produced by NS’ advertising agency, RP3 Agency of Bethesda, Md., and by The Mill of New York, N.Y., an award-winning creator of computer-generated graphics.

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)

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

STEAM on the BR&W!

Received the following via email.

STEAM

on the

Black River & Western Railroad


Dear Patron,

In November, 2000, the fire was dropped in steam locomotive #60 and she was moved to our engine shop for what turned out to be almost 12 long years of restoration.

During that time our dedicated "steam crew" has worked tirelessly on a thorough mechanical overhaul of this historic locomotive. A lot has changed since 2000, and many volunteers have come and gone. Just this year, the BR&W family mourned the loss of one of our most passionate steam crew volunteers, John Konn.

Yesterday (8-9-12), all the hard work paid off when #60 operated under her own power for the first time since November, 2000! Extensive testing was conducted on all of #60's components as she made her first appearance on the BR&W main line in over a decade.


Our steam crew is now back at work fine tuning and making final preparations for #60's return to revenue service on the BR&W.

Stay tuned for further details about when you'll be able to experience #60 on the BR&W!

Best regards,

Black River & Western Railroad

PS: Visit our website for information about more special events with tickets currently on sale, including Three Bridges Excursions, Photo Freights, the Eerie Limited, and the North Pole Express!


For more information about #60:


Three Bridges Excursions - 2012
May 27/12 to Sep 1/12 An approximately two hour round-trip over the entire active BR&W line between Ringoes and Three Bridges, NJ. This is a rare opportunity to ride the BR&W between Flemington and Three Bridges, a section of the railroad that is usually freight-only. Light refreshments will be available for sale (cash only) on board the train. This train boards at Ringoes only. Tickets are by reservation only, and seating is limited!


Photo Freight - 2012
May 26/12 to Sep 2/12 Ride along on a mixed freight train featuring restored vintage rolling stock. This event features several run-bys at various locations on the line. This train boards at Ringoes only, and tickets are by reservation only.



Eerie Limited - 2012
Oct 20/12 to Oct 27/12 Calling all history buffs and ghost chasers! Join us for an evening excursion from Flemington to Ringoes and return. On the way, learn the stories of tragedies, wrecks, and hauntings from the long history of the railroad lines operated by Black River & Western. Reservations required. Recommended for ages 15 and up.


North Pole Express - 2012
Nov 23/12 to Dec 22/12 The North Pole Express offers an exciting train ride to North Pole Station to visit Santa & Mrs Claus! Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, singing along with the elves, a chance to tell Santa your Christmas wish, and much more. This is a special experience the entire family won't forget.


For more information and to make reservations for any of the trips above, vistit the Black River & Western web site  http://www.flemingtontrain.org/index.html  and click on TRAINS.

Update - NMRA Garden State Division Mine Tour

Received the following via email.

The Mine Tour

Tickets are paid for at the museum to the museum.
All we need to do is give them a count so that they can schedule enough staff.

We are now suggesting that you arrive earlier than the 10:00am schedule time, 9:30 or so. We have almost fifty people attending and there could be a line at the ticket window.

Any questions respond back to this e-mail.  Garden State Division

Andy Brusgard
e-mail clerk

You do not have to respond if you already are signed up.

Monday, August 13, 2012

NMRA Garden State Division Summer Meet

Received the following via email.

NMRA Garden State Division

Summer Meet

Saturday, August 18, 2012

at 10:00 AM

Truly Something Special

The Sterling Hill Mine Museum

30 Plant Street, Ogdensburg, NJ

The Sterling Hill Mine Museum is the site of the largest Zinc Mine in New Jersey. The Mine closed in 1986 and has been preserved as a museum.

See: http://sterlinghillminingmuseum.org/ for Museum details

=============================================================

The events at the site include a private tour of the Museum and an underground tour of the mine just for GSD members and guests. This two hour tour will be followed by a lunch in an outdoor pavilion provided by the GSD.

After lunch, seven layouts in the area will be available for visits. GSD members are also welcome to spend more time visiting the Museum Store and photographing the extensive collection of hard rock mining equipment that is on display outdoors on the grounds.

In addition to zinc and iron, the rock in this mountain is home to an amazing array of florescent minerals – some that are found nowhere else in the world.

Cost; (Lunch inclusive) Adult: $9; Senior: $8; Under 12: $7.

We will need to know how many tour guides are needed, if you’re planning on attending please e-mail us on how many tickets you will need.

See http://www.nergsd.com/Data/SummerMeet12.pdf
for all the details of this exciting event.

=============================================================

Please Note:

We MUST have a head count to arrange for tour guides.

E-mail us if you are going to attend this meet with number of tickets needed.

gsdtrains@yahoo.com

===============================================

The Garden State Division, NMRA

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Liberty Locomotive Works Whistle Posts and Ring Posts

Liberty Locomotive Works and The Big Little Railroad Shop announce the arrival of Whistle Posts and Ring Posts in brass. These are replicas of those used by the PRR and therefore were plentiful in our surrounding area.


They are available in HO at $9.95 for a package of four (4) units or $14.95 for similar O scale packages.

Stop in to the store to look at them.............

Saturday, August 11, 2012

NS 30th Anniversary STEAM Trips in PA with Nickel Plate engine #765

Here is a compilation of several emails and photos we have received regarding the NS employee steam trips in Pennsylvania with NKP locomotive #765. 

Norfolk Southern’s 30th Anniversary Steam Trips in Pennsylvania in August: Nickel Plate Road steam engine 765 will be operating on 2 weekends in August in Pittsburgh and Harrisburg on employee-only trips. The Pittsburgh area trips begin on 8/11, with 3 trips being operated from Conway Yard to the Ohio Connecting Bridge and return. On 8/12, there are 2 trips from Conway to Homewood Junction. Monday, 8/13 is the ferry move of the train from Conway to Enola across the former PRR Middle Division via Horseshoe Curve and Altoona and Lewistown. Harrisburg area trips begin on Saturday 8/18 with 3 trips from Enola Yard to CP Capitol near the Harrisburg Amtrak Station and return. Trips are expected to operate at 9 am, 12 noon, and 3 pm. On Sunday, 8/19, 2 trips will operate from Enola Yard to CP Capitol. Monday, August 20, will be the deadhead move from Enola Yard to Pittsburgh again via Lewistown, Altoona and up and around Horseshoe Curve. If you wish to see the NKP 765 operate over Rockville Bridge or around Horseshoe Curve or just trackside on the old Middle Division, this is your opportunity.


NKP 765 at Garrison, OH, on 7-30-12, photo by Travis Giles


NKP 765 at Bellevue, OH, on 7-21-12, photo by Michael Wierowski
Note NS heritage unit 8100-Nickle Plate Road behind 765's tenders.  


Tracking NKP Steam Engine #765 by the Minute (GPS via On-line, iPhone, DROID & Twitter)

Whilst enjoying the attached photo that Ken Heyl recorded yesterday of #765 on its eastbound ferry move on the old PRR Ft. Wayne Line at Perrysville, OH (east of Mansfield), you may wish to try out the various electronic methods available to track the position of the famous, 1944-vintage Lima-built locomotive. When #765 is in motion, the 400-ton engine's GPS tracker updates every 60 seconds. The engine and train are presently stored, until their employee-only trips this weekend, at Conway Yard, along the Ohio River (no public access). At mid-trip, to return to Conway on the Saturday trips, the locomotive and train will be turned on wye tracks located at the Ohio Connecting {"OC") Bridge spanning the Ohio at Brunot Island, along PA Route 65, just downstream from The Point in Pittsburgh. To return to Conway on the Sunday trips in the other direction, the equipment will be turned on wye tracks located at Homewood Junction ("Wood"), which is immediately west of the PA Route 18 / I-76 (PA Turnpike) interchange. The only mention I see of times (below) is when they are scheduled to begin, "Trips are expected to operate at 9 am, 12 noon, and 3 pm." I have no further information, such as which are the expected departures on days with only two runs. The Ft. Wayne group that owns the engine may have that info., if you ask via the comments on their website (below).  
http://fortwaynerailroad.org/locate.html

http://fortwaynerailroad.org/mobile/


NKP 765 and NS 8100 at Perrysville, OH, on 8-7-12, photo by Ken Heyl

 

Revised NKP #765 PGH Schedule this SAT & SUN (changes, new details) via fallstonflagstop.com

Extremely rare opportunity to witness a large, main line steam locomotive in action on multiple runs in the Pittsburgh-Beaver Falls rail corridor (former Pennsylvania Railroad Ft. Wayne Line). There are various methods (laptop, Smart phone) available to electronically track #765's position: when in motion, the famous, 1944-vintage Lima-built engine's GPS tracker updates every 60 seconds.

The engine and train will operate on NS employee-only trips this weekend out of Conway Yard, along the Ohio River (and PA Route 65). As far as I know, the entire train is still to be turned on the wye tracks located on the approaches of the Ohio Connecting {"OC") Bridge spanning the Ohio at Brunot Island, along PA Route 65, just downstream from The Point in Pittsburgh. On trips in the other (westbound) direction through Rochester and Beaver Falls, the equipment will be turned on the wye located at Homewood Junction ("WOOD"), which is right adjacent to the Pennsylvania Turnpike's Beaver Valley Interchange (junction of PA Route 18 / I-76) south of Koppel. The Homewood Viaduct, carrying Norwood Drive over both the PA Turnpike and the NS wye at WOOD should afford very good views of the engine from above but, for that reason, will also likely become a rather crowded vantage point.

Saturday will see three round-trips, at 9 am, Noon and 3 pm. Sunday will have just 9 am and Noon runs before the engine and emptied train are forwarded east as a daylight 'dead-head/ferry move' through Pittsburgh, over Horse Shoe Curve, and through Altoona to Enola Yard for next weekend's employee trips around Harrisburg.

Though the engine may be turned on the Conway turntable between the Saturday and Sunday PGH runs, this is located on heavily-patrolled private railroad property. Viewing and photography should be conducted at all locations from public property.
http://fortwaynerailroad.org/mobile/

Thursday, August 09, 2012

A Reading Ramble Across the Midwest

A pair of Norfolk Southern heritage units - NS 1067, Reading and NS 8104, Lehigh Valley - enjoyed an odyssey across the upper Midwest in July following the "family get together" at Spencer Shops in North Carolina.  First they went to Detroit, Michigan, then Lincoln, Nebraska, next to Laurel, Montana, then Dilworth, Minnesota where they were broken up.  The Reading unit then went to Kansas City and then to Louisville, Kentucky.  The Lehigh Valley unit went to Chicago and then to North Carolina. 

This posting all started with a couple of emails alerting us to this "Reading Ramble."  First here is a portion of one of those emails, then a series of pictures of this odyssey. 

Here's a sweet-evening-light view of this latest 'Reading Rambler' and 'Valley Voyager' (See the 5th photo from Fairmont, NE).  By deciding to 'Go West' on vacation in a big way, might the 'Queen Bee' and 'Valley Girl' already be earning their second nicknames? Note that all four locomotives are coupled elephant-style.

Speaking of elephants, imagine this Color Riot consist of power leading either of the two Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus trains...'Reading on the Ringling'. Hey, stranger things have already happened in just the past two weeks...like this intrepid duo that seems to have arisen from the dusty pages of the old "Rail Northeast" magazine, appearing in fresh paint on new units in places like NC and NE this month! (It is a dry July and Ol' Queenie has always been leading, as there is not yet even any RR crossing diamond / highway grade crossing mud-pump splatter on her shiny plow pilot!)



The first leg of this journey saw the Reading and Lehigh Valley units taking a coal train to the Detroit area after the family gathering in North Carolina.

7/9/12 North of Bucyrus, OH, photo by Kyle Ori



Next, they took an train of empty coal hoppers to Lincoln, Nebraska.

7/12/12 La Salle, MI, photo by Aaron J. Border



7/12/12 South Rockwood, MI by Aaron J. Border



7/14/12 Burlington, IA by FJ Grizel


At Lincoln, NE they were put in charge of a BNSF general merchandise train bound for Laurel, Montana, which is about 10 miles west of Billings, MT.  They traveled across Nebraska, across a corner of Colorado, and then through Wyoming to Montana.


7/15/12 Fairmont, NE by Luke Lohrmeyer



7/16/12 near Benkelman, NE (SW corner of NE), photographer unknown


7/16/12 NE/CO state line along US 34, photo by Kirk Orndorff



7/16/12 Yuma, CO, photo by Kirk Orndorff



7/17/12 near Peetz, CO, photo by Chip


At Laurel, MT, the ramblin' pair were sent to Dilworth, MN, on another BNSF train.  Dilworth is just across the state line from Fargo, ND.   I have no pictures from this leg of the journey.  At Dilworth the pair of NS heritage units were split up.  The Reading unit was put on a train to Kansas City.


7/22/12 Perham, MN, photo by Matt Hagfors



7/24/12 Kansas City, KS, photo by Zach Pumphery



Meanwhile, the Lehigh Valley unit was put on an intermodal train bound for the Chicago area.  Then it was put in charge of a NS grain train bound for North Carolina.


7/22/12 La Crosse, WI, photo by Dennis Weber



7/24/12 Hammond, IN, photo by Matthew Ginkel



7/27/12 Pelham, NC, photo by Khalil Poole


Finally, the Reading unit was returned to NS in Kansas City and sent east to the Louisville, KY area where it was put to work on coal trains.
7/27/12 St. Charles, MO, photo by Jake Branson



7/29/12 Danville, KY by Gage O’Dell