Friday, December 20, 2013

CSX Announces Earnings Release and Fourth-Quarter Earnings Call

Received the following via email. 

CSX Corporation Announces Earnings Release and Fourth-Quarter Earnings Call

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., (December 19, 2013) - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) will release fourth-quarter and 2013 full-year financial and operating results on Wednesday, January 15, 2014, after the market close.

The Company will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 am Eastern Time on Thursday, January 16, 2014 via teleconference and a live audio webcast.

Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial 1-888-327-6279 (1-888-EARN-CSX) and ask for the CSX earnings call.  Callers outside the U.S. dial 1-773-756-0199.  Participants should dial in 10 minutes prior to the call.

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.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products.  For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development.  Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides.  It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike.  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

Melanie Cost, Corporate Communications
904-359-1702

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

NJ Transit One-Seat Ride to Manhattan Coming to the Raritan Valley Line

Received the following via email.

NJ Transit One-Seat Ride to Manhattan to Begin in March 2014
During Weekday Off-Peak Hours

The Raritan Valley Rail Coalition and the One-Seat Ride Coalition have announced that NJ Transit will roll out a morning off-peak, one-seat ride to New York's Penn Station starting March 2, 2014.  The trains will arrive in New York between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

NJ Transit has purchased dual-mode locomotives that will operate as diesels through Hunterdon, Somerset, Middlesex and Union counties and as electronic locomotives through the tunnel to Manhattan, making the one-seat ride possible.

The Raritan Valley Rail Coalition, joined by a coalition of 30 mayors of towns along the line, seek to ultimately achieve a full one-seat ride Manhattan service on the Raritan Valley Line, which currently terminates in Newark.

"Town after town has major development near their train stations," said Somerset County Freeholder and Rail Coalition Chairman Peter S. Palmer. "The weekday off-peak service is an important first step."

He credited the mayors' coalition, headed by Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr, with being "vital to the long-standing effort of the Rail Coalition to bring the one-seat ride to fruition."

NJ Transit, which has championed Transit-Oriented Development, has agreed to meet quarterly with the One-Seat Ride Coalition to evaluate the results of the new service and discuss further expansion.  The next step would be to offer evening one-seat ride service during off-peak hours after 8 p.m. 


Tuesday, December 17, 2013

MRL on KRL: New Locomotive Crane on Kasgro Depressed-center Flat Car

Received the following photo via email.  Photo taken by Tom Boylan in Willard, OH on or about 12-14-13. Pictured is a new Montana Rail Link (MRL) crane on a Kasgro depressed-center flatcar.  But where is the boom?




Monday, December 16, 2013

Dashing through NJ's snow...

(Train sightings on 12-14-13.) 

... in order to photograph two excursion trains before NJ experienced the full brunt of the forecasted Saturday snow storm. The first excursion was "The Santa Train" organized by the Jersey Central Chapter of the NRHS and was operated over NJT's Raritan Valley Line between Raritan and Westfield. By the time the second excursion was pulling into the Somerville station at 10:30, the storm's intensity started to pick up. All three trips were sold out!  








After this train departed Somerville's station, I was off to Flemington to photograph the first run of the day of BR&W's "North Pole Express". Saturday's two runs for this excursion were also sold out. BR&W # 60 is seen here crossing the Second Neshanic River with its three coach consist.  





Saturday, December 14, 2013

Metro-North Derailment - NTSB Go-Team To Depart Bronx

Received the following via email.









































http://www.ntsb.gov/ NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD NEWS RELEASE

An independent federal agency


NTSB Go-Team To Depart Bronx; Investigation Into Metro-North Derailment Will Continue From Washington


Dec. 9, 2013
WASHINGTON— The National Transportation Safety Board's go-team will leave New York City this week after completing the necessary on-scene investigative work into the cause of the derailment of a Metro-North passenger train on December 1. The NTSB will continue to gather factual information and investigators will return to New York as needed for follow-up work.
The following investigative update is provided regarding the Dec. 1 derailment:
Over the weekend, investigators completed the mechanical inspection of the train and found no anomalies. As stated last week, there were also no anomalies found with the tracks or with the signal system. Investigators examined car 6222, the lead car in which the engineer controlled the train. The “dead-man” switch, a foot-pedal on the floor of the cab that must be depressed to keep the train moving was evaluated. The pedal moved and released as expected. No anomalies were noted. In addition, the control key switch worked as designed. The team also conducted a site/distance test and found no problems with visibility.
As a result, at this time, the NTSB believes that if positive train control technology was installed on this line and train, it would have required the engineer to slow the train to an appropriate speed or stop the train in the event the engineer did not do so, likely preventing the derailment. The NTSB has been advocating for PTC for more than 20 years and it is on its Most Wanted List of transportation improvements. More information can be found at http://www.ntsb.gov/safety/mwl8_2012.html.
Investigators completed interviews with all crew members. All have been cooperative and forthcoming. All said it was a normal run until shortly before the derailment sequence.
Investigators are still awaiting results of crew drug tests and cellphone records.
Investigators also interviewed the engineer of a train that passed the accident train, 8808, near Riverton at about 7:11 a.m. That engineer said the headlight on train 8808 was on high and the engineer did not dim his light as is required by Metro-North.
Mechanical examinations, such as shop testing of the of dead-man switch, inspection and testing of speed sensors and tachometer rings, the brake control unit, and the propulsion controller from the control car have been completed. No anomalies were found.
Ongoing activities include interviews with passengers, Metro-North employees who were riding on the accident train and first responders. Records continue to be gathered.
Investigators will also take 3-D scans of the damaged cars and locomotive for use in a digital accident re-creation and for detailed measurements.
The NTSB would also like to talk to passengers on the train that derailed to learn about what they experienced and causes of injury. Our goal is to ultimately make future improvements in the design of passenger rail cars.
Passengers on Metro-North train 8808 on Dec. 1 can contact the NTSB by email at eyewitnessreport@ntsb.gov.
Further written updates will be issued as events warrant. Keep up with NTSB news on Twitter @NTSB or at www.ntsb.gov.


Contact Information


Office of Public Affairs
490 L'Enfant Plaza, SW
Washington, DC 20594

Eric M. Weiss
(202) 314-6100
eric.weiss@ntsb.gov


This message is delivered to you as a free service from the National Transportation Safety Board.

An archive of
press releases is available at http://www.ntsb.gov/news/press_releases.html


Friday, December 13, 2013

Tickets Are All Sold Out

Received the following via email on Monday, 12/2, shortly after 6 PM.  This was a follow-up to the email we had received at about 3 PM as noted in the post below.  The remaining tickets for the North Pole Express are gone.  However, note the special trains being run on Saturday, 12/28, listed at the bottom.  These trains are not listed on their web site. 


That was fast!
Thank you for your quick response! The additional tickets for this year's North Pole Express have all been sold. We do not anticipate any additional tickets to become available this year. But if you missed out and still want to go for a simple enjoyable train ride, consider riding on December 28! Santa won't be there, but it will be a great ocassion to relax after the holidays in our cozy heated coaches.
Ample tickets are available for our December 28th roundtrips departing Flemington at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.

This train is NOT advertised on our website - the only way to purchase tickets is through the "Buy Tickets Now" link at the bottom of this email!

December 28th Special
Saturday December 28, 2013 This is your last chance to ride the BR&W in 2013! We're running two Flemington-Ringoes round-trips for our preferred customers - by invitation only! Invite your friends and family to join you for this relaxing 90 minute round-trip from Flemington to Ringoes and return. It may be cold outside, but our train will be warm and cozy! This train is not listed on our public website and RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. All passengers board at Flemington Station. Make your reservation ahead of time, then simply arrive at the station 15 minutes prior to your train's departure - no tickets required! Seats are $10 each.




Tickets Available For North Pole Express!

Received the following via email on Monday, 12/2, shortly after 3 PM.  Unfortunately, these ticket were sold out in 3 hours as noted in the post above.  However, note the special trains being run on Saturday, 12/28, listed at the bottom.  These trains are not listed on their web site. 

Tickets Available!
(But they're selling fast!)
A VERY LIMITED number of tickets have opened up for several of the remaining North Pole Express departures!
These will NOT last long, so click the link below to purchase tickets today!
We do not expect any additional tickets to become available.
Ample tickets are also available for our December 28th roundtrips departing Flemington at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.
North Pole Express
The North Pole Express offers an exciting train ride to North Pole Station to visit Santa & Mrs Claus! Enjoy refreshments, 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 complete details on this event please visit our website at www.flemingtontrain.com.

Departures that are grayed out or marked as "Online Sales Sold Out" are COMPLETELY sold out and do not have any additional tickets available.

Alchoholic beverages are strictly prohibited.



December 28th Special
Saturday December 28, 2013 This is your last chance to ride the BR&W in 2013! We're running two Flemington-Ringoes round-trips for our preferred customers - by invitation only! Invite your friends and family to join you for this relaxing 90 minute round-trip from Flemington to Ringoes and return. It may be cold outside, but our train will be warm and cozy! This train is not listed on our public website and RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. All passengers board at Flemington Station. Make your reservation ahead of time, then simply arrive at the station 15 minutes prior to your train's departure - no tickets required! Seats are $10 each.




Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Note from the BLRRS blogger *

I must apologize for the lack of posts over the past couple of weeks.  I have been having a great deal of difficulty with my Internet connection, but it appears to be cleared up now.  Below are catch-up posts for November, some out-of-date unfortunately.  The catch-up posts are denoted by a *.  I hope to get current in the next couple of days. Note that the store computer was not affected; different ISP.


CP Holiday train in Steamtown - photos *

Received the following photos and text from Richmond Bates. 

Here are a couple of photos of the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train at Steamtown during yesterday's (11-26-13) snow storm.  Locomotive 9824 and business car Strathcona on the rear were also on the train last year.






Residents Can Return Home After Houses Tested, Fire Chief Says *

Received the following via email. 

Residents Can Return Home After Houses Tested, Fire Chief Says

WILLARD, Ohio - November 30, 2013 - Fire Chief Joe Reiderman has informed residents living closest to the CSX Transportation train derailment site that they can return to their homes.  Almost all of the residents have, in fact, already returned after having their homes checked by environmental experts at the strong urging of the Fire Chief.

"We are testing out of an abundance of caution," said Chief Reiderman, noting that any remaining residents who need to have their homes checked can call the Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health (CTEH) toll free at 1-888-959-8351 to schedule the testing. Monitoring, which has been in place since shortly after the derailment, has consistently showed the air to be safe.

The residents cleared today were among those evacuated following a derailment Tuesday night in which about 13,000 gallons of styrene monomer, a flammable product used to produce plastics and rubber, were released. Most people were cleared to return home on Thursday.

As cleanup of the site progressed, CSX opened an Outreach Center to compensate displaced residents for financial loss. The center opened at 8 a.m. today, and more than 600 people came through. During the evacuation, many of the residents were lodged in area motels with meals and other needs met by CSX.

The Outreach Center, located at the Christian Alliance Church at 1609 Conwell Avenue, is open daily as long as a need exists. Residents should bring identification (driver's license or government ID) and proof of residency (current utility, bank or tax bill, etc.). For more information about the Outreach Center, residents should call 1-877-TellCSX (1-877-835-5279).



Willard Residents Allowed to Return Home *

Received the following via email.

Willard Residents Allowed to Return Home

WILLARD, Ohio - November 28, 2013 - Fire Chief Joe Reiderman today lifted the evacuation and allowed most residents to return to their homes following a derailment late Tuesday night. Most residents were given the all-clear at 3:00 p.m. after significant progress in clearing the CSX Transportation derailment, which spilled approximately 13,000 gallons of styrene monomer, a flammable product used in the production of plastics and rubber.

"On this Thanksgiving Day, when we remember our blessings, it gives me great pleasure to tell our neighbors that it's safe to return to their homes," Chief Reiderman said. "I want to thank our community for its support and patience in this difficult process."

Rusty Orben, director-public affairs for CSX, echoed Chief Reiderman's praise. "All of us at CSX thank this community and its first responders for their incredible patience and cooperation this week. CSX pledges to continue to remain on site, helping people re-enter their homes safely."

A small number of homes closest to the derailment and product spill will remain off limits as the cleanup continues, Chief Reiderman said. Those families will continue to be housed at area hotels and their lodging, meals and other needs taken care of by CSX as they have been since the derailment. CSX also offered residents air monitoring in their homes if they had any concerns. Monitoring in the area has consistently showed the air to be safe, despite a minor odor. However, precautions are being taken with the homes closest to the immediate derailment site.

At the Willard High School, which has also served as the Community Outreach Center, CSX provided a Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings from 1-4 p.m. City and CSX representatives were available there to help residents get back to their homes and to answer any questions.

Meanwhile, overnight operations resulted in the re-railing of the four derailed rail cars, which will open up the area for additional cleanup being done in coordination with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The rail cars derailed during switching operations, and a CSX investigation is under way to determine the cause.

Clean-up work will continue for the next several days, and the Community Outreach Center will remain open at least through the weekend.

INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS
1. All residents except those residing on Pleasant Street in the City of Willard; 119, 121 and 209 North Main Street; and 119 Church Street are permitted to return to their homes at 3:00 p.m.
2. For those residents still under the evacuation order on Pleasant Street, North Main Street and Church Street please call 1-877-TELL-CSX to arrange for monitoring of your home and additional needs.
3. A minor odor may still be present, but there is not a threat to health and safety of residents.
4. Any resident who was evacuated and would like to have their home monitored for air quality would need to report to the Community Outreach Center at the Willard High School to make arrangements.
5. Anyone who was evacuated who would prefer to stay another night in a hotel would need to stop by the Community Outreach Center to make arrangements or call 1-877-TELL-CSX for guidance.
6. Any resident who has questions or concerns can stop by the Community Outreach Center to speak directly with a CSX representative.



N&W #611 gets $$$ from NS *

Received the following via email from one of our frequent correspondents.

NS donated 1.5 Mil to the 611 Campaign this morning at 6:11 am!  (11-22-13) 

Between the Norfolk Southern Railway and Union Pacific Railroad, there is just a pile of money suddenly going back into operating more big main line steam. I was in the cab of #611 on the main line at Oak Harbor, OH in the late Eighties. I never thought I'd get to see her run again. This Good Will Ambassador is going to bring a lot of favorable attention to NS, which has polished up its already-positive image as 'The Thoroughbred of Transportation' under Chairman Moorman. 

Here are links to 3 photos of the 611 in action. 



CSX CTO: CUSTOMER COLLABORATION HELPS DRIVE SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS AND GROWTH *

Received the following via email. 

CSX CTO: CUSTOMER COLLABORATION HELPS DRIVE SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS AND GROWTH

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - November 22, 2013 - Cindy Sanborn, CSX (NYSE: CSX) vice president and chief transportation officer, today told the RailTrends annual conference in New York City that a stronger focus on customer collaboration and improved utilization of key resources such as locomotives and rail cars
are contributing to the company's ability to respond effectively to market changes.

"Growth in our merchandise and intermodal sectors - the most service-sensitive parts of our business - means that the dual goal of focusing on asset utilization while gathering customer feedback is imperative to continue delivering the high levels of service to which they are accustomed," Sanborn said.

CSX's dynamic resource planning model, which improves the capability to deploy locomotives and rail cars, has helped drive ongoing productivity savings. Those savings, along with a 6 percent gain in merchandise and intermodal business since 2011, have helped offset a 21 percent decline in coal volume during that period.  Sanborn shared the example of improved planning for dynamic locomotive utilization, which is expected to create $20 million alone in productivity savings in 2013. CSX is on track to exceed $150 million in total productivity savings this year.

In addition to productivity savings, CSX is creating value through programs like Service Excellence, which emphasizes customer engagement and service execution at all levels of the organization. With the help of customer input, the company is improving railcar utilization, transit times and real-time customer communication, supporting better planning for both customers and CSX.

"Superior service and coordination help set a foundation for our long-term growth," Sanborn said. "Our customer satisfaction levels are at an all-time high, and we continue to focus on using our assets more efficiently and incorporating customer feedback to achieve our company-wide goal of being the safest, most progressive railroad, relentless in the pursuit of customer and employee excellence."

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. 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:
Melanie Cost
(904) 359-1702



NS President to address Credit Suisse Global Industrials Conference *

Received the following via email.

Nov. 22, 2013

Norfolk Southern President to address Credit Suisse Global Industrials Conference

NORFOLK, VA. – James A. Squires, president of Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the Credit Suisse Global Industrials Conference in New York City at 11 a.m. EST on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2013.

Interested investors can listen via simultaneous webcast at http://cc.talkpoint.com/cred001/120313b_jw/?entity=4_57SU747. The presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, 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)




Investors, customers, communities benefit from more info on Norfolk Southern's environmental commitment *

Received the following via email.

November 20, 2013

Investors, customers, communities benefit from more info on Norfolk Southern’s environmental commitment
Railroad achieves its best-ever carbon disclosure score

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern has achieved its best-ever score in reports that grade large U.S. and global companies on how well they measure and manage their carbon footprint.

In CDP’s 2013 S&P 500 and Global 500 climate change reports, Norfolk Southern scored a 90 for its carbon disclosure, on a scale of 0-100. That is a 2 percent improvement over its 2012 score of 88 and is the company’s highest in the six years it has participated in the voluntary CDP survey.

“As a responsible corporate citizen, Norfolk Southern strives to continuously improve the way we manage potential environmental impacts of our business operations, and we are pleased that this year’s disclosure score reflects those efforts,” said Blair Wimbush, NS vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer.

Of 44 U.S. industrial-sector corporations in the CDP’s S&P 500 report, Norfolk Southern was among 14 that scored 90 or higher on carbon disclosure.

CDP, formerly known as Carbon Disclosure Project, is an independent not-for-profit organization that supports reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the sustainable use of water and forest resources. In addition to scoring companies on their disclosure level, CDP awards performance grades of E to A to measure a company’s efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Norfolk Southern’s 2013 performance grade is B, matching its 2012 and 2011 grade.

By the end of 2012, Norfolk Southern had accomplished nearly 69 percent of its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10 percent per revenue ton-mile between 2009 and 2014. The company has invested in locomotive fuel-saving technologies, more efficient lighting and energy systems in rail facilities, and network improvements that increase the capacity and fluidity of rail routes.

For example, the company is investing nearly $30 million to equip road locomotives with LEADER, a GPS-based computer system that helps engineers achieve maximum fuel efficiency when operating trains. By diverting long-haul freight to trains from trucks, the company’s Crescent Corridor – a public-private improvement program that spans 11 states from Louisiana to New Jersey – has the potential to reduce greenhouse gases by 1.9 million tons annually when fully developed. Last year, the company invested nearly $1 million to replace lighting at six rail yards in West Virginia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, reducing energy use at those facilities by 62 percent.

“We are taking a comprehensive, strategic approach to reduce emissions throughout our operation,” Wimbush said. “We are committed to maintaining a high-quality system that leverages freight rail’s inherent efficiencies in support of the economy, less highway congestion, and lower overall fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.”

To learn more, read Norfolk Southern’s 2013 corporate sustainability report at www.nssustainability.com.

CDP collects data from the world's largest companies on behalf of more than 722 institutional investors with combined assets of $87 trillion. It provides the only global system for companies and cities to measure, disclose, manage, and share vital environmental information.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Jon Glass, 757-629-2789 (jonathan.glass@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)




Holiday Train Show this Weekend, November 22, 23, 24 *

Received the following via email. 

Join Us for Our Annual Holiday
Model Train Show!
New York Society of Model Engineers
341 Hoboken Road
Carlstadt, New Jersey 07072
November 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
November 29th, 30th, & December 1st
December 6th, 7th, & 8th
Dear NMRA,
Our world of miniature trains is once again open the general public! Members of our organization are proud to share their enjoyment of building and displaying our model trains, which has kept our organization going strong for the last eighty seven years. Both of our railroads, O scale and HO scale, will be in operation for the general public to view. These detailed dioramas feature hundreds of hand built models including buildings, mountains, trees, bridges and of course trains!!! We invite you to come and visit us again and to continue your holiday tradition with us. Remember on our model railroad "Our trains run on time, all the time!"
Sincerely,

Andrew Brusgard
Annual Holiday Show - Three Weekends!!!
Nov. 22, 23, 24         Nov. 29,30, & Dec 1           Dec 6, 7, & 8
Friday Nights 7-10pm
Saturday and Sundays 1-6pm
  
The Holiday Season is upon us and kick off your celebration by visiting the New York Society of Model Engineer's Annual Holiday Exhibition! Both our railroads will be in operation this season. Improvements to both railroads have been made. The "HO" railroad has added and changed scenery in the back room plus the signaling system is in full operation. The "O" railroad has upgraded their scenery as well and has added lots of new rolling stock. While watching our trains don't forget to look up at our historic collection of train tail signs. In addition our souvenir shop will be open for business! We will be selling books, videos, DVD's, and other railroad related memorabilia.
Like us on Facebook
The New York Society of Model Engineers is always looking for new members. You do not need to have any experience building models, we are always looking for people who share an interest in trains, model railroads, or railroading. Feel free to ask any of our members for more information when visiting us.

Norfolk Southern supports restoration of historic locomotive through sale of Rothko painting *

Received the following via email. 

Nov. 22, 2013

Norfolk Southern supports restoration of historic locomotive through sale of Rothko painting

NORFOLK, VA. – In a fortunate intersection of the worlds of fine art and railroading, Norfolk Southern has sold a well-known abstract expressionist painting and will use a portion of the proceeds to help fund the restoration and long-term maintenance of another American treasure, the Class J No. 611 steam passenger locomotive. 

NS Chairman and CEO Wick Moorman said NS sold its untitled 1959 Mark Rothko painting through an auction in New York City on Nov. 14 and will direct $1.5 million of the proceeds to “Fire Up 611!,” the capital campaign to rehab the famous Norfolk & Western Railway streamliner and return it to passenger excursion service.

“No. 611 is an American classic, a reflection of a time and a people who put the country on their backs and carried it into to the modern age of railroading,” Moorman said. “611 is not an NS, N&W, Virginia, or Roanoke locomotive. It belongs to everyone and every generation. In that spirit, and on behalf of NS employees everywhere, I announce our strong support for bringing back a true national marvel.” 

“People from 15 countries have contributed their time and resources to bring back the ‘Queen of Steam,’” said Bev Fitzpatrick, executive director of 611’s owner, the Virginia Museum of Transportation (VMT) in Roanoke, Va. “NS’ generous and timely support gives us the best opportunity to reach the $5 million needed to put this icon back on the rails and keep her moving for decades.”

611 rolled out of N&W’s Roanoke shops in 1950 and with sister Class A and Y6 locomotives constituted the “Magnificent Three” that pulled passenger and heavy freight trains during the last two decades of steam railroading in the U.S. Class J locomotives such as 611 could pull 15 cars at 110 mph, and their builders once promoted the advanced engineering by showing how several men, with nothing more than a rope, could pull one on the track. 611 was retired in 1959, restored for excursion service in 1984, and retired again in 1994. Since then, 611 has been on display at VMT. 

The 611 plan contemplates making it available for service in NS’ 21st Century Steam program in 2014. In this program, several vintage steam locomotives from NS’ past give people throughout the railroad system opportunities to ride behind the marvelous, powerful locomotives of old, while learning how today’s railroads create jobs, support the economy, save fuel, protect the environment, and keep America competitive.

“With railroads as the backbone of the country’s transportation system – today as during 611’s time – we all can look forward to the brightest days of America’s future,” said NS President Jim Squires. “611 represents not just past glory but infinite possibilities for the future.”

Rothko (1903-1970) was a Latvian émigré who became one of the U.S.’ most famous post-World War II artists. He resisted having his works labeled, but art critics said he wanted people to have spiritual experiences when viewing them.

NS’ signed Rothko painting was created in 1959. The “oil on paper laid down on canvas” image measures 29-1/2 by 21-1/2 inches and features amorphous forms that float on top of each other, “…wonderfully capable of moving the viewer to extreme states of feeling…” according to Sotheby’s, the auction house.

NS bought the painting in 1996. It was part of the railroad’s collection of public area visual art and historical artifacts safeguarded throughout the history of the corporation, including train models, tools, clocks, safety and service awards, and maps. Some pieces – including the Rothko -- have been loaned to museums in the U.S. and abroad for exhibitions. 

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, 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)




Toto, we are not in NYC! *

Following article is from a New Jersey newspaper - The Star-Ledger.

Riders on Amtrak train from Philly to NYC get an unexpected detour 

By Mike Frassinelli/The Star-Ledger 
on November 20, 2013 at 2:36 PM, updated November 20, 2013 at 8:43 PM

Riders on an Amtrak train from Philadelphia to New York took the scenic route.

According to a story on CBS Philly, the train left Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station last Thursday and, instead of a direct path to New York Penn Station via New Jersey and the Northeast Corridor, somehow ended up on the SEPTA Regional Rail System in the Philadelphia suburbs.

The train carrying 130 passengers traveled several miles before the mistake was realized, then stopped at the Bala Cynwyd station about 8 miles northwest of the 30th Street Station, according to CBS Philly.

The passengers were shepherded into a different train and eventually ended up at their correct destination in midtown Manhattan.

In a statement, Amtrak said: “An investigation was launched and the crew has been held out of work until they can be fully debriefed and additional training can be conducted.”


Wasden Road/I-65 Industrial Site Receives CSX Select Site Designation *

Received the following via email. 

Wasden Road/I-65 Industrial Site Receives CSX Select Site Designation

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - November, 21, 2013 - CSX announced today that the Wasden Road/I-65 Industrial Site in Montgomery, Alabama, has been designated a CSX Select Site.

"We are excited to add this 415-acre, manufacturing-zoned property to our Select Site program," said Clark Robertson, assistant vice president, regional development, CSX.  "Its strategic location near I-65 in an area of strong industrial demand, along with superior infrastructure, make this a compelling option for manufacturing firms looking to locate a facility in Alabama, and more specifically in the Montgomery area."

Select Sites are locations for manufacturing facilities along the CSX network that can be developed quickly since standard land use issues and comprehensive due diligence items have been previously addressed.  "Through the Select Site program, we can significantly reduce the time it takes for companies to evaluate a competitive site, and ultimately construct their facility and bring products to market," said Robertson.

CSX introduced the Select Site program in 2012 to better serve customers by creating a certification program for premier, rail-served properties located on the CSX network. CSX partnered with The Austin Company, a nationally recognized site selection firm, to screen candidate sites and assist communities with the application and certification process.

"Few properties offer the combination of proximity to an interstate, over a mile of mainline frontage, and the necessary utility infrastructure already installed to the site," said Jonathan Gemmen, senior location consultant, The Austin Company.

To receive CSX Select Site designation, the location must meet a rigorous list of 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. Once certified, the sites are featured on a new user-friendly web portal that includes press releases, promotional materials and direct marketing to site selection professionals.

Since inception in 2011, 13 locations across the 23-state CSX network have received a Select Site designation. Two companies have announced intentions to place new facilities at separate Select Sites with several more in the final stages.

To learn more about CSX Select Sites online, visit http://www.csxselectsite.com.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products.  For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development.  Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides.  It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike.  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).

About the Wasden Road/I-65 Industrial Site
The Wasden Road/I-65 Industrial Site is located approximately seven miles south of downtown Montgomery, less than one mile off of Interstate 65 (at exit 164).  Zoned for manufacturing, this 415-acre CSX Select Site is one of a few large, rail-served industrial sites fully-served by utilities. This gently rolling, greenfield site is adjacent to the established Interstate Industrial Park and less than two miles from Hyundai's assembly facility. The site shares its western boundary with more than 6,600 feet of rail frontage on the CSX mainline.


NS Service Alert Update on Wash Out - East of Kenova, WV *

Received the following via email.

Update on Wash Out – East of Kenova, WV

Track repairs continue at the wash-out site six miles east of Kenova, WV.  Track 2 was opened last night and work continues on track 1 and the adjacent siding with the expectation these tracks will re-open Thursday afternoon.   

All current traffic has resumed normal routing. Customers should expect delays of 24 to 48 hours until the final 2 tracks are back in service and normal operations are fully restored. 

The latest ETA and routing information is always available through Pacesetter and accessNS. 

Customers with questions regarding specific shipments should contact the National Customer Service Center. 

Customer Service Operations at 800-635-5768.
Customer Service Automotive Operations at 888-649-9273. 


Customers with questions regarding local service should contact their Operations and Service Support Representative. 

Operations and Service Support at 800-898-4296.




NS Service Alert - Wash Out - East of Kenova, WV *

Received the following via email.

Wash Out – East of Kenova, WV

Heavy storms and severe rain occurring across the Eastern U.S. have resulted in a wash-out six miles east of Kenova, WV. Track repairs are currently underway and further updates will be provided.

Customers may see traffic moving via alternate routes to avoid heavily exposed areas, and could expect delays of 24 to 48 hours. 

The latest ETA and routing information is always available through Pacesetter and accessNS. 

Customers with questions regarding specific shipments should contact the National Customer Service Center. 

Customer Service Operations at 800-635-5768.
Customer Service Automotive Operations at 888-649-9273. 


Customers with questions regarding local service should contact their Operations and Service Support Representative. 

Operations and Service Support at 800-898-4296.




CSX and GE Transportation Partner to Pilot Liquified Natural Gas Locomotives *

Received the following via email. 

CSX and GE Transportation Partner to Pilot Liquified Natural Gas Locomotives

- Exploring potential to revolutionize locomotive technology
- Goal is to reduce emissions and fuel costs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - November 13, 2013 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) and GE Transportation, a division of GE (NYSE: GE) today announced an agreement to explore emissions-cutting and efficiency breakthroughs in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) technology for locomotives beginning with a pilot program in 2014.

"LNG technology has the potential to offer one of the most significant developments in railroading since the transition from steam to diesel in the 1950s," said Oscar Munoz, executive vice president and chief operating officer, CSX Corporation.  "That change took many years to complete and began with a lot of unknowns, and this one is no different.  But aggressively exploring this technology is consistent with CSX's focus on tomorrow, its longstanding commitment to efficient and environmentally friendly transportation, and its role in helping to promote U.S. energy independence.  GE Transportation has the know-how to provide the right LNG solution for our locomotive fleet and help us better understand the feasibility of LNG technology from a safety, operations and economic perspective."

Natural gas-fueled locomotives can travel longer distances without refueling stops, as well as provide environmental and economic benefits.  Adoption of natural gas-fueled locomotives will make freight rail an even more attractive transportation solution and furthers the industry's ability to absorb traffic from the nation's highways in an environmentally efficient way.

"Locomotives are at an inflection point in balancing engine performance with efficiency and adherence to emissions standards," said Russell Stokes, chief executive officer, GE Transportation.  "As we enter a new era of energy sources and what's possible for rail transport, we are excited to partner with CSX and lead the LNG transformation for the industry."

GE has been testing low-pressure natural gas technology since spring of 2013, and is working closely with CSX and other Class 1 partners. Field tests are expected to begin in 2014.  GE's NextFuel(TM) kits allow railroads to use natural gas as a fuel source, reducing emissions and potentially reducing fuel costs while not compromising performance. An Evolution Series locomotive equipped with the NextFuel Natural Gas Retrofit Kit meets US EPA Tier 3 emission standards.

CSX will be working over the next few months to develop a test plan and secure regulatory concurrence.   For CSX, GE Transportation will deploy its new NextFuelT Natural Gas Retrofit Kits that enable existing Evolution Series locomotives to operate with dual fuel capabilities.  CSX and GE will also work on the continued development of LNG technology for other classes of locomotives to promote gains across a larger portion of the CSX locomotive fleet, and will work closely with key stakeholders and agencies across government to ensure safety, realize environmental and other benefits, and advance LNG deployment.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. 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).

About GE Transportation
GE Transportation, a unit of GE (NYSE: GE), solves the world's toughest transportation challenges.  GE Transportation builds equipment that moves the rail, mining and marine industries.  Our fuel-efficient and lower-emissions freight and passenger locomotives, diesel engines for rail, marine and stationary power applications, signaling and software solutions, drive systems for mining trucks, underground mining equipment, energy storage systems, and value-added services help customers grow.  GE Transportation has approximately 13,000 employees. For more information visit GETransportation.com.

GE Transportation Media Contacts:

Jennifer Erickson
GE Transportation
312-610-8318
jennifer.erickson@ge.com

Jessica Taylor
GE Transportation
(312) 610-8486
Jessica.taylor@ge.com

CSX Media Contact:

Carla Groleau
904-359-1708
Carla_Groleau@CSX.com

Sunday, November 17, 2013

NS named to Top 100 Military Friendly Employers list by G.I. Jobs magazine

Received the following via email. 

Nov. 13, 2013

Norfolk Southern named to Top 100 Military Friendly Employers list by G.I. Jobs magazine

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern has been named one of the nation’s Top 100 Military Friendly Employers® by G.I. Jobs magazine in its 11th annual list recognizing companies with the best military recruiting and hiring practices.

Making its seventh appearance on the list, Norfolk Southern ranked 75th. The list of 100 companies represents the top 2 percent of more than 5,000 eligible companies with annual revenues exceeding $500 million. Criteria include strength of company military recruiting efforts, percentage of new hires with prior military service, retention programs, and company policies toward National Guard and Reserve service.

"The railroad is an excellent environment for veterans to continue using their training and leadership skills in a second career,” said Norfolk Southern President James A. Squires, a U.S. Army veteran. “There are many opportunities for veterans at Norfolk Southern, and we make a special effort to encourage those who have served their country to join the Thoroughbred team.”

Norfolk Southern actively recruits people with military backgrounds for careers in railroad operations and management. Over the past seven years, NS has hired 2,400 veterans, and 12 percent of the total NS workforce - some 3,500 employees - are veterans, members of the National Guard, or reservists.

Norfolk Southern recruits veterans through its www.NorfolkSouthern-veterans.jobs website, which allows veterans to search for railroad employment opportunities using their military job titles. Recruiters also attend job fairs on military bases and at the federal government's Transition Assistance Program classes. Service members preparing to leave the military can register with Norfolk Southern indicating their separation date and desired work locations, and recruiters will contact them with current job opportunities.

Additionally, Norfolk Southern provides training to help veterans who have management experience transition into supervisory roles within the company. And if veterans are called to active duty through the Reserves or National Guard while working at Norfolk Southern, they can once again serve their country with the assurance that their jobs will be waiting for them when they return.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, and industrial products.

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Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Robin Chapman, 757-823-5204 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)