Sunday, August 31, 2014

Railroad History of Hunterdon County, NJ - 2 Events

Hunterdon County, NJ, is celebrating its tricentennial with different events throughout 2014.  Two events involving railroads in the county are listed here with links to the appropriate official web pages.

First is a power point presentation about the fascinating history of the Trains, Train Stations and Railroads of Hunterdon on Wednesday evening September 10, 2014.   This is free, but you must register beforehand.  Details at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trains-train-stations-and-railroads-of-hunterdon-tickets-12345406443?utm_campaign=new_eventv2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eb_email&utm_term=eventurl_text


Second is a train ride on the Black River & Western Railroad from Flemington to Ringoes and return.  This extended trip (approx. 4 1/2 hours) will include lunch and entertainment at Ringoes.  Date is Saturday, September 13, 2014.  Reservation are required and the cost is $15 per adult, $10 for children aged 6 to 17, and free for children 5 and under.  Details at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-river-western-historic-rail-experience-read-below-tickets-12345428509?utm_campaign=new_eventv2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eb_email&utm_term=eventurl_text 


Thursday, August 28, 2014

Variety was riding the rails!

(Train sightings on 8-23-14 and 8-24-14.) 

...between Saturday evening and Sunday morning in the various consists I observed.

Photo 1- BR&W's last "Caboose Hop" of the year on Saturday evening is seen crossing Route 12 and approaching Flemington's (NJ) Turntable Junction. Motive power was LV SW1 112 still earning its keep after seventy-five years with a Chessie, Wabash, Maine Central and Erie cabooses in tow.



Photo 2: Air Products heat exchanger makes it way down CSX's Trenton Line at Belle Mead (NJ) on Sunday morning around 9:30. On Saturday it was moved from Bethlehem (PA) to Manville (NJ) were it was held over night for Sunday's trip down the TL as CSX X999. That diesel seen in the shadows is NS 6918. This heat exchanger's final destination is unknown.



Photo 3: Before heading home I stopped by the LEHL's Valley Road grade crossing in Hillsborough (NJ) and saw NS 22V with NS 7601 and NS 8713 for power. As those COFCs passed by my location, I couldn't help but to wonder about the variety of goods and products within those COFCs. Three different trains with three different consists!




Wednesday, August 27, 2014

An Air Products High & Wide Move over the LEHL

(Train sightings on 8-23-14.)

Despite some gloomy skies and intermittent showers here in central NJ, I decided to venture track side in hopes of seeing another Air Products heat exchanger move from Bethlehem (PA) to Manville (NJ) on the LEHL (NS's Lehigh Line). This move snuck in under my radar since there were no heads up on any of the local websites I visit. Motive power for this move was NS 6918 (Rebuilt EMD SD60E) and NS 9383 (GE C40-9W). The consist was a buffer car, APTX 203, APTX 204, another buffer car and the Air Products caboose. If past history holds true to form, on Sunday this H/W will depart Manville yard around 9 AM and head west over CSX's Trenton Line. This particular shipment eventual destination is unknown. 

Photo 1: Taken at Three Bridges (NJ; LEHL MP 48) has it passing through the Main Street grade crossing around 1:45 PM. I was surprised to see the old LV depot sporting a fresh coat of red paint.

Photo 2: NS 052 is passing through the Roycefield Road grade crossing in Hillsborough (NJ; LEHL MP 40).

Photo 3: A view of the support that holds these high and wide loads in place.


Friday, August 22, 2014

BRW Special Events Update

Received the following via email. 


All Aboard
the
Black River & Western Railroad!




As summer winds down, we have several very special trains and events coming up this August and September! Seating for these trains is limited, so buy your tickets today!

#112 75'th Anniversary Celebration
Our trusty switcher, LV #112, is turning 75 years old! So on September 6 we'll be operating a special trip from Ringoes to Three Bridges and return. Passengers will be treated to several photo run-bys and will receive exclusive souvenirs. Reservations required.


Caboose Hop
We have one Caboose Hop left this year, and it leaves Ringoes Station this Saturday, August 23 at 5:30 PM. The Caboose Hop features several cabooses and a round-trip all the way to Three Bridges and return. Reservations required - only a few seats are left!


Hunterdon County Tricentennial Train
In celebration of Hunterdon County's 300th Anniversary, BR&W is operating a special train in partnership with the county! The train leaves Flemington Station at 11:30 AM on Saturday, September 13. This very special trip features a round-trip train ride to Ringoes and includes lunch and LIVE MUSIC by the Red Oak Country Boys! Reservations required - available here.

The Great Train Robbery
This year's robbery features an updated show, and proceeds from the sale of "Black River Bucks" will benefit the Midland School of North Branch, NJ. The Midland School is a nationally recognized, nonprofit comprehensive special education school dedicated to the individual, social, emotional, academic and career needs of children with developmental disabilities. Trains depart Flemington Station on Sunday, September 14 at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. Reservations are required.


For complete details on all of our trains and events

ORDER TICKETS NOW!
Caboose Hops - 2014

Saturday May 24, 2014 to Saturday August 23, 2014 Ride a caboose all the way from Ringoes to Three Bridges and back! Reservations required.


Lehigh Valley #112 75th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday September 6, 2014 to Sunday September 7, 2014 #112, our trusty Lehigh Valley Railroad SW1 switcher, is turning 75 years old, and we're celebrating in style!

Passengers on the 75th Anniversary Celebration will enjoy a round-trip ride from Ringoes to Three Bridges and return..but that's not all! Your ticket includes photo opportunities of #112 drilling Three Bridges yard, complimentary boxed lunch, an exclusive #112 75th anniversary beer glass, #112 lapel pin, and #112 75th anniversary reusable shopping bag, and additional photo run-bys.


The Great Train Robbery - 2014
Sunday September 14, 2014 Keep a watchful eye on your fellow passengers during your round-trip ride between Flemington and Ringoes - you never know who may be a member of the dreaded Covered Bridge Gang! Geared towards younger children, our Great Train Robbery features members of the Covered Bridge Gang taking control of the train only to be apprehended by the Sheriff with the help of his young deputies!


Pumpkin Patch Trains - 2014
Saturday September 20, 2014 to Sunday October 26, 2014 Ride the train to Pumpkin Junction! At Pumpkin Junction explore the giant corn maze and let the little ones try out the hay bale maze. There's a small petting zoo, refreshments, and even horse drawn wagon rides! And don't forget pick-your-own pumpkins! Your ticket includes the train ride from FLEMINGTON to Pumpkin Junction and return, and entrance to the maze. Refreshments, pumpkins, souvenirs, and wagon rides are an additional fee at Pumpkin Junction.




Monday, August 18, 2014

Ed Jenkins Named CSXT Vice President, Market Strategy E-Business

Received the following via email.

Ed Jenkins Named CSXT Vice President, Market Strategy E-Business

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - August 15, 2014 - Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Clarence W. Gooden has announced the appointment of Ed Jenkins as vice president-market strategy e-business for CSX Transportation, effective August 15. Jenkins, who will continue to report to Gooden, has fostered the development of the team responsible for translating customer needs and growth opportunities into service innovations that support each of the railroad's key markets.

"Ed has led remarkable innovations in e-business tools and customer analytics that have helped propel CSX's service insights and service culture and, in these areas, has set industry standards.  His work has helped CSX gain genuine and constant customer engagement and insight," said Gooden. "As a result, the company is much more skilled in anticipating and addressing the needs and expectations of current and future customers.  These skills will be essential as our service grows in volume and complexity, and I am very pleased to have Ed and his team in place to help take us forward."

Over a nearly 30-year career at CSX, Jenkins has held positions in operations, sales and marketing and strategy. He was appointed assistant vice president, market strategy and e-business in 2004 after having been named assistant vice president, corporate development and strategic planning in 2000.  Jenkins spent several years in management consulting and holds a bachelor's degree in marketing management from Virginia Tech and a master of management in transportation, finance and marketing from Northwestern University.

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


Sunday, August 17, 2014

NS CEO Moorman to address Global Transportation & Aerospace/Defense Conference

Received the following via email. 

Aug. 11, 2014

Norfolk Southern CEO Moorman to address Cowen and Company 7th Annual Global Transportation & Aerospace/Defense Conference

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern Chairman and CEO Wick Moorman will address the Cowen and Company 7th Annual Global Transportation & Aerospace/Defense Conference.

Cowen and Company 7th Annual Global Transportation & Aerospace/Defense Conference
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014, 10:35 a.m. EDT
Boston Harbor Hotel, Boston

The presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com in the Investors section.

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) Katie Cook, 757-629-2861 (InvestorRelations@nscorp.com)




NS reports progress and efforts to reduce environmental impact

Received the following via email. 

August 8, 2014

Norfolk Southern reports progress and efforts to reduce environmental impact

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern has reported its carbon performance and strategic efforts in the past year to lower the railroad's greenhouse gas emissions, driving improved operating efficiencies and customer service.

The company's seventh annual public disclosure to CDP, formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project, describes investments in technologies and network improvements reducing the railroad's carbon footprint while expanding freight capacity and providing fuel- and cost-efficient customer service. The disclosure also charts progress on the company's five-year goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 10 percent per revenue ton-mile, reaching nearly 79 percent of goal with one year remaining.  

"Our CDP disclosure is driven by the company's commitment to be accountable and transparent in how we address environmental impacts of our operations," said Blair Wimbush, vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer. "Today's environmental issues, such as climate change, offer complex challenges as well as opportunities for businesses and communities, and Norfolk Southern is fully engaged in achieving successful outcomes."
Norfolk Southern describes key strategic initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They include:
  •       Expanding its LEADER train-handling initiative, a GPS-based technology that in 2013 saved an estimated 10 million gallons of diesel fuel and reduced locomotive GHG emissions by an estimated 110,500 metric tons.
  •      Purchasing new, more fuel-efficient locomotives and upgrading older locomotives with reconditioned engines that boost fuel economy and are cleaner burning.
  •        Investing in network improvements to increase freight rail capacity, providing customers with truck-competitive service that reduces their supply chain carbon footprint and eases highway congestion.
  •     Improving building operating efficiencies by installing more energy-efficient lights and HVAC systems at railroad facilities.
  •    Exploring locomotive fuel alternatives, including battery power and natural gas. 

To learn more about Norfolk Southern's efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of its business operations, view the railroad's CDP filing and 2014 sustainability report.

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) Jonathan Glass, 757-629-2789 (jonathan.glass@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Katie Cook, 757-629-2861 (InvestorRelations@nscorp.com)




NS brings emergency responders to training center for crude-by-rail safety class

Received the following via email.

August 7, 2014

Norfolk Southern brings 40 emergency responders from nine states to world-class training center for crude-by-rail safety class

NORFOLK, VA. - First responders from nine states took part in a Norfolk Southern-sponsored crude-by-rail emergency response class recently at the Association of American Railroads' Security and Emergency Response Training Center (SERTC) in Pueblo, Colo. The event marked the latest in Norfolk Southern's ongoing efforts to facilitate rail-focused training for emergency personnel across its operating system.

Forty responders from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware, Indiana, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Alabama participated last week in a three-day course. Participants learned about the different kinds of crude oil being transported, types of tank cars used for crude transportation and crude oil response precautions. They also practiced specialized firefighting techniques during a mock 20-car derailment and fire.

"This is top-notch," said Jason Hudgens, a firefighter and paramedic from Akron, Ohio, who participated in the training. "We were on a 52-acre facility in the desert, and they ignited a fire to create a real-life situation. We could feel the heat and use the hoses to spray foam. You can't do that in a classroom. You can't do this anywhere else."

The training is part of the freight rail industry's commitment to provide specialized crude-by-rail training and tuition assistance to 1,500 first responders during 2014. Norfolk Southern will provide tuition, travel and expenses for a total of 126 responders to attend the training this year at no cost to communities or organizations. Additional NS classes will be held in October and November.

"NS is committed to enhancing safety, which includes not only sound train operations, but also preparing for emergency situations," said David Julian, NS vice president safety and environmental. "Pre-planning and training for first responders is essential to help them perform their duties when the need arises. With respect to the crude oil traffic segment, we look forward to working with emergency response agencies to assist them with hazardous materials planning, training, and resources to help them prepare for and to minimize impacts in the unlikely event of an incident."

In 2013, NS safety and environmental teams trained more than 4,800 state and local emergency responders at 108 locations across the railroad's 22-state network, and since 2000, NS has provided classroom and hands-on training to 62,000 responders.

Emergency response personnel from the following organizations attended the course:

Alabama
Tuscaloosa Fire & Rescue Service

Delaware
Christiana Fire Department, Newark Fire Department, PBF Energy-Delaware City Refinery

Indiana
Elkhart Fire Department, Fort Wayne Fire Department, South Bend Fire Department, LaGrange Fire & Rescue

Maryland
Cecil County Department of Emergency Services, Maryland Department of the Environment

New Jersey
Elizabeth Fire Department, Gloucester County Office of Emergency Response, Newark Fire Department

New York
Elmira Fire Department, New York State Division Homeland Security and Emergency Services Office of Fire Prevention Control

Ohio
Akron Fire Department, Columbiana County Emergency Management Agency-Franklin Fire Department, Fulton County Emergency Services, Norwalk Fire Department, North Ridgeville Fire Department, Toledo Fire & Rescue Department, Zanesville Fire Department

Pennsylvania
Allegheny County Emergency Services, Beaver County Emergency Services, Chester County Department of Emergency Services Hazardous Materials Response Team, Dauphin County Hazardous Materials Response Team, Eddystone Fire Company, Erie County Regional Hazardous Materials Team, Friendship Fire Company, Lancaster County Emergency Management Agency, Lehigh County Emergency Management Special Operations, Montgomery County Department of Public Safety, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, Philadelphia Fire Department, Pittsburgh Fire Department, Westmoreland County Hazardous Materials Response Team

Virginia
Alexandria Fire/Emergency Medical Services, Lynchburg Fire Department


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) Katie Cook, 757-629-2861 (InvestorRelations@nscorp.com)

Wednesday, August 06, 2014

CSX - Alliance for Community Trees and CSX Announce National NeighborWoods® Tree Plantings and Giveaways

Received the following via email.

Alliance for Community Trees and CSX Announce National NeighborWoods® Tree Plantings and Giveaways

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 4, 2014 - Alliance for Community Trees (ACTrees) and CSX are partnering with local greening organizations to strengthen and reestablish urban tree canopies. As part of ACTrees' National NeighborWoods® Month in October, 30 communities across the country will receive CSX Tree Giveaway Grants and CSX Restoration Grants.

"ACTrees appreciates CSX's long-standing passion for community greening and the work our members are doing," says Executive Director Carrie Gallagher. "After working together to accomplish the CSX Trees for Tracks goal of planting 21,000 trees last year, we're excited that CSX is continuing to support ACTrees member initiatives to bring the environmental and economic benefits of trees to communities."

"At CSX, we are committed to continually improving our environment and helping to make the communities we serve cleaner and greener," said Tori Kaplan, assistant vice president corporate social responsibility, CSX. "National NeighborWoods® Month allows us to support a real difference in 30 communities, in collaboration with ACTrees, to protect and improve the country's natural resources."  

CSX Giveaway Grants will fund tree giveaways of 75 or more large trees during National NeighborWoods® Month. Trees will be given to the public, neighborhood associations, and community organizations at no cost. ACTrees members will provide technical assistance and planting instructions to those who receive trees. 

These giveaways will strengthen the urban canopies of 15 communities: Arlington, VA; Baltimore, MD; Bloomington, IN; Carmel, IN; Detroit, MI; Fredericksburg, VA; Grabill, IN; Indianapolis, IN; Louisville, KY; New Orleans, LA; New York, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Richmond, VA; Richmond Hill, GA; and St. Louis, MO.

CSX Restoration Grants will fund plantings in communities that recently lost canopy coverage due to extreme storms, pests, and diseases, as well as in sensitive riparian buffer zones along urban waters. Replanting trees in city parks, along streets, and in riparian areas will restore urban forests in these communities. 

In addition, ACTrees members will perform i-Tree analysis on the grant-funded trees to calculate the measurable impact these new trees will make, including stormwater runoff adsorbed, carbon captured, and the dollar value of these benefits. 

These grants will help rebuild the canopies and watersheds of 15 communities: Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Buffalo, NY; Chicago, IL; Cleveland, OH; Frankfort, KY; Greenville, SC; Pittsburgh, PA; Raleigh, NC; Savannah, GA; St. Louis, MO; Valparaiso, IN; Washington, IL; and Wilmington, DE.

Want to get involved? Interested volunteers in these cities can find their local ACTrees member organization at www.ACTrees.org

For the past four years, CSX and ACTrees have partnered to provide and promote urban and community tree planting, care, conservation and education. Together CSX employees and ACTrees members have planted more than 22,600 trees. 

National NeighborWoods® Month is the annual celebration of trees in our communities. Every October, tens of thousands of volunteers take action to make their communities greener and healthier by planting trees-turning their neighborhoods into vibrant, livable NeighborWoods®. Be part of this national event. Join in at www.NeighborWoodsMonth.org.

About Alliance for Community Trees
Alliance for Community Trees (ACTrees) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and livability of cities by planting and caring for trees. With over 200 member and partner organizations in 44 states and Canada, Alliance for Community Trees engages volunteers to take action to improve the environment where 93% of people live: in cities, towns, and metropolitan areas. Together Alliance for Community Trees member organizations have planted and cared for more than 15 million trees with help from over 5 million volunteers. Learn more about our mission at www.ACTrees.org and follow us on Twitter @alliance4trees.

About CSX Corporation
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia, and connects to more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at the company's web site, www.csx.com.

Media Contact: Anthony Le
202-291-8733


CSX - TRANSPORTING NUTRITION TO FOOD DESERTS

Received the following via email. 

TRANSPORTING NUTRITION TO FOOD DESERTS

CSX and The Conservation Fund launch grant program to support transportation of fresh food to underserved communities


ARLINGTON, Va. (Aug. 4, 2014) -- CSX and The Conservation Fund today announced a program of grants aimed at improving the transportation and distribution of fresh, healthy food to communities in need. More than 23 million Americans across the country have limited or no access to fresh produce, dairy, meats and seafood. One of the contributors to these so-called "food deserts" is the lack of infrastructure to distribute fresh food to markets.

As a leading supplier of efficient rail-based freight transportation in North America, CSX recognized the integral role that local distribution plays in bringing fresh food to the people who need it. Many producers and organizations are challenged to retain food quality and safety as they sell, store, package, and distribute produce and other goods to the communities they serve.

To support local distribution and help address this need, CSX and The Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit dedicated to finding conservation solutions that balance environmental and economic needs, teamed up to create a program that will help farmers and distributors enhance their delivery capabilities.

Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 will be made available to entities that distribute fresh produce/perishable food in the 23 states where CSX operates. The grants can support a range of activities related to transportation such as:
- acquiring refrigerated vehicles for direct delivery to markets;
- financing "veggie vans" to bring fresh food to isolated communities;
- providing better access to food hubs or other sites where produce, dairy, seafood and meats can be stored safely for distribution; or
- purchasing produce boxes and cold storage bins to keep unsold food fresh for the next day's farmers market or wholesale purchase.

"This program provides a lifeline to Americans who struggle to make fresh food a part of their daily meals," said Kris Hoellen, Vice President of Sustainable Programs for The Conservation Fund. "With CSX's help, we're connecting our most vulnerable populations to healthy, fresh food by addressing local gaps in food distribution systems. Efficient distribution of healthy food also means more effective use of natural resources required for sustainable agricultural practices."

"This program truly demonstrates the power of partnerships, drawing on the strengths of both CSX and The Conservation Fund to identify solutions that serve the communities in which we live and work every day," said Tori Kaplan, Assistant Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility, CSX. "Facilitating fresh and healthy food distribution to underserved communities is exemplary of CSX's core value of right results, right way."

Grant applications are due by October 1, 2014. To download a grant application and see more information about the program, please visit http://www.conservationfund.org/partner-with-us/corporate-partners/profiles/csx/ or contact Margarita Carey at mcarey@conservationfund.org.

CSX is also working with The Conservation Fund on a program that is improving access to healthy food in five underserved counties in West Virginia - Calhoun, McDowell, Mingo, Roane and Wirt.

CSX has long been a supporter of The Conservation Fund's work. CSX has helped restore critical habitat at two national wildlife refuges through the donation of more than 13,000 trees and is helping reconnect children and nature with the creation of a school curriculum unit that teaches kids about the environment, math, science and economics through real-world freight transportation scenarios.

# # #

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.

CSX is committed to helping communities it serves live healthier, greener, safer lives. The company recognizes the importance for these communities to gain regular access to locally grown, nutrient-rich, fresh food.  That's why CSX is supporting these grants to enable farmers, churches, towns, cities, neighborhoods, and community groups to transport fresh food to people who need it, as part of a healthier lifestyle.

About The Conservation Fund
At The Conservation Fund, we combine a passion for conservation with an entrepreneurial spirit to protect America's most important lands and waterways for future generations. A hallmark of our work is our deep, unwavering understanding that for conservation solutions to last, they need to make economic sense. We strive to implement strategies that support sustainable economic development, spark cutting-edge conservation and bridge connections between people and the land. Top-ranked, we're advancing vibrant, healthy communities. www.conservationfund.org

Contacts:
Ann Simonelli, The Conservation Fund, 703-908-5809, asimonelli@conservationfund.org
Melanie Cost, CSX Corporate Communications, 904-359-1702, melanie_cost@csx.com


Tuesday, August 05, 2014

NMRA Palmer, Mass. Convention Update

Received the following via email.


NER Members:
The Palmer NER Convention, September 11 to 14, is less than six weeks away.  If you haven’t yet registered please do so soon.  Any activities that do not meet the minimum registration requirements will have to be cancelled.  The discounted early registration period ends August 20th.  If you have already registered, Thank You!
Please visit the www.nediamonds2014.org website for all the latest convention information, some of these changes are summarized in this email.  (Please Note: If you have visited the website before, please refresh your browser (usually F5) on each page to see the updated version of the page.)
Lodging:
In case you missed it, we have arranged discounted rooms at a nearby hotel:
Day's Inn
450 Memorial Drive, Chicopee, MA 02020.
Reduced rates for the convention are:
$92.21 per night for one night
$84.34 per night for two or more nights
A full continental breakfast is included.
Call (413) 739-7311 to make your reservation. Remember to specify "Palmer NER Convention" when booking in order to get the reduced rates.
Banquet:
The Steaming tender can only accommodate about 125 diners in the main dining room, so please get your registration in to enjoy the evening in Palmers’ historic railroad station.  The Banquet menu and Awards Breakfast menus are now available on the convention website.  The restaurant will also be offering a speedy lunch menu for convention attendees on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Prototype Tours:
The PVRR tours now also include a 45-60 minute ride in their dining car over a 3-mile branch line that runs through an industrial park.  Please remember that we are visiting working railroads and safety is of utmost importance.  Proper dress and footwear is required for the tours, no open toes shoes, sandals or shorts.

The Keystone Arch Bridge tour has updated the requirements for attending the tour, including items for your safety. Please see the website.
Operating Sessions:
Home and club layout operating sessions are assigned based on the order of convention registration. The lower your registration number, the higher your priority will be when choosing your sessions.  If you want to improve your chances of getting into a session of your choice, please send your convention registration to the Registrar by this Tuesday, August 5.  (You may want to mail your application and notify the registrar via. email)
Clinics:
Pdfs of all clinic descriptions and the clinic schedule have been posted on the website. You can use them to assist in your activity planning.  Also, on Friday evening, Tony Koester will be presenting his clinic on “Multi-Deck Railroad Design and Construction.”
Please note that the Bolinger participation clinic is no longer being offered.  Please select from the other participation clinics.  If you’re already signed up for Bolinger’s clinic, when you check in at the registration desk, you’ll be able to sign up for a different clinic or receive a refund.
Non-Rail:
Please note that the Old Sturbridge Village Tour requires 15 attendees to go ahead at the discounted tour price of $15.00.  By comparison, regular admission is $24.00.
The Thursday evening “Modeling with Cosmetics” session has been canceled and replaced by a non-participation clinic.  The “Modeling with Cosmetics” will still be offered on Saturday.
Contests:
Updated forms and guidelines for the Photo Contest are available on the NER website.  A link to this website is available on the convention website.  Please note that submissions to the Model and Photo Contest will only be accepted Friday evening between 5PM and 9PM.  Judging will take place on Saturday.


Thanks again from the Palmer Convention Committee!  We will send another email update soon, including more info on layout tours.


NS named to 'green' supply chain list

Received the following via email.

July 31, 2014

Norfolk Southern named to 'green' supply chain list

NORFOLK, VA. - Norfolk Southern Corporation has earned a place on Inbound Logistics' 2014 75 Green Supply Chain Partners list in recognition of sustainable supply chain, logistics, and transportation practices.

The transportation industry magazine cited Norfolk Southern's Trees and Trains tree-planting initiative and its investments in track and rail facilities to increase freight rail capacity across the company's eastern U.S. network.

"Norfolk Southern strives to provide customers with unrivalled service while mitigating business impacts on the environment," said Blair Wimbush, vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer. "We are proud and gratified to be recognized by Inbound Logistics for these efforts. Employees at all levels of the railroad are working hard to be more efficient, less resource-intensive, and innovative in the way we do business."

In announcing its "G75" list, Inbound Logistics said a company's corporate sustainability initiatives, collaborative customer-driven projects, and participation in public-private partnerships were considered. Four benchmarks carried weight: measurable green results, sustainability innovation, continuous improvement, and industry recognition.

"We found Norfolk Southern to be one of those companies that is truly 'walking the walk' when it comes to supply chain sustainability," said Felecia Stratton, editor of Inbound Logistics.

Norfolk Southern launched Trees and Trains in 2011 with a five-year, $5.6 million commitment to reforest 10,000 acres in the Mississippi Delta with more than 6 million native hardwoods and cottonwoods. The railroad also is working with conservation partners to restore longleaf pines and American chestnut trees. These forest habitats offer carbon sequestration and watershed protection, with the Mississippi Delta initiative projected to generate 1.12 million tons of carbon-offset credits. That is equal to nearly one-fifth of Norfolk Southern's 2013 carbon emissions, primarily from its diesel-powered locomotive fleet.

In the current year, NS expects to spend $2.2 billion on strategic investments in its rail franchise, including projects to improve capacity and network flow. Inbound Logistics singled out NS' ongoing investments in its Crescent Corridor public-private improvement project, which spans 11 states and has the potential to ease highway congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by diverting long-haul freight from trucks to trains. More companies are shifting transport of their products from highway to rail to reduce their supply-chain carbon footprint and achieve business sustainability goals.

Norfolk Southern in July released its seventh annual sustainability report, which details the company's Trees and Trains carbon mitigation strategy and the economic and environmental efficiencies of the railroad's network.

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.

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Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Jonathan Glass, 757-629-2789 (jonathan.glass@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Katie Cook, 757-629-2861 (InvestorRelations@nscorp.com)


Sunday, August 03, 2014

Announcing New Special Events on the Black River & Western!

Received the following via email. 


Announcing Two New Special Events!



It's been a busy year at Black River & Western, and we're only getting started! It is with great pleasure that we are announcing two NEW special events for 2014: a special #112 75'th Anniversary Celebration, and Story Time With Mrs. Claus! Also - North Pole Express tickets are now available to returning BR&W customers!

#112 75'th Anniversary Celebration
Our trusty switcher, LV #112, is turning 75 years old! So on September 6 and 7 we'll be operating a special trip from Ringoes to Three Bridges and return. Passengers will be treated to several photo run-bys and will receive exclusive souvenirs. Reservations required.


Story Time With Mrs Claus
Ride along with Mrs. Claus and her helper on this unique train. During this 45 minute trip Mrs. Claus will read a story aloud, kids will receive a small gift, everyone gets a candy cane, and there will be additional live entertainment. IMPORTANT - SANTA IS NOT ON THIS TRAIN. Reservations required.


North Pole Express Tickets Now Available!
North Pole Pole Express tickets are now available to returning BR&W customers! Just follow the "Buy Tickets Now" link below and enter the access code "santa2014". Feel free to share the access code with your friends and family. North Pole Express tickets go on sale to the general public on August 15, so buy your tickets now before trains start selling out!


For complete details on all of our trains and events

ORDER TICKETS NOW!
Caboose Hops - 2014

Saturday May 24, 2014 to Saturday August 23, 2014 Ride a caboose all the way from Ringoes to Three Bridges and back! Reservations required.


Readin' Railroad Story Time - 2014
Saturday June 7, 2014 to Saturday August 16, 2014 Enjoy a round-trip excursion between Flemington and Ringoes, and the Conductor will narrate a popular children's book. Kids can follow along with their own copy of the book! Reservations required. "A" tickets are Adult tickets (age 12+). "C" tickets are Child tickets (under age 12). Make sure you consider how many books you want when choosing which tickets to purchase. Only tickets that indicate "1 book" in their description include a book!


Lehigh Valley #112 75th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday September 6, 2014 to Sunday September 7, 2014 #112, our trusty Lehigh Valley Railroad SW1 switcher, is turning 75 years old, and we're celebrating in style!

Passengers on the 75th Anniversary Celebration will enjoy a round-trip ride from Ringoes to Three Bridges and return..but that's not all! Your ticket includes photo opportunities of #112 drilling Three Bridges yard, complimentary boxed lunch, an exclusive #112 75th anniversary beer glass, #112 lapel pin, and #112 75th anniversary reusable shopping bag, and additional photo run-bys.


The Great Train Robbery - 2014
Sunday September 14, 2014 Keep a watchful eye on your fellow passengers during your round-trip ride between Flemington and Ringoes - you never know who may be a member of the dreaded Covered Bridge Gang! Geared towards younger children, our Great Train Robbery features members of the Covered Bridge Gang taking control of the train only to be apprehended by the Sheriff with the help of his young deputies!


Pumpkin Patch Trains - 2014
Saturday September 20, 2014 to Sunday October 26, 2014 Ride the train to Pumpkin Junction! At Pumpkin Junction explore the giant corn maze and let the little ones try out the hay bale maze. There's a small petting zoo, refreshments, and even horse drawn wagon rides! And don't forget pick-your-own pumpkins! Your ticket includes the train ride from FLEMINGTON to Pumpkin Junction and return, and entrance to the maze. Refreshments, pumpkins, souvenirs, and wagon rides are an additional fee at Pumpkin Junction.


Candy Cane Limited - 2014
Saturday November 22, 2014 to Sunday December 21, 2014 Don't have the time for the North Pole Express? Try out the Candy Cane Limited, NEW for 2014! Board this train at Flemington Station for a ride to Ringoes and return. On board the train, Santa and his helper will greet all the kids, posing for photos upon request. All passengers receive a candy cane! Perfect for younger children that would have trouble waiting in line at the North Pole, or may be overwhelmed by an extended visit with Santa.


North Pole Express - 2014
Saturday November 22, 2014 to Sunday December 21, 2014 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 on November 28 are DIESEL powered. All other departures are planned to operate with steam. We reserve the right to substitute motive power at any time without prior notice.


North Pole Express Caboose Charter - 2014
Saturday November 22, 2014 to Sunday December 21, 2014 NEW for 2014! Reserve a private caboose for your group on the North Pole Express! Your private caboose comes complete with all the normal North Pole Express features, PLUS: your own dedicated elf and an additional gift for the kids. The caboose seats approximately 10 people, plus lap riding children. Please contact us at reservations@flemingtontrain.org with any questions PRIOR to your purchase!



Story Time With Mrs. Claus
Saturday November 29, 2014 to Saturday December 6, 2014 Ride along with Mrs. Claus and her helper on this very special train. Your train will journey north from Flemington Station through downtown Flemington for a 45 minute round-trip. Mrs. Claus will read a story aloud while kids follow along in their own complimentary copy of the book. Kids will receive a small gift, each passenger will receive a candy cane, and additional live entertainment will be provided by Mrs. Claus's helper. The train departs Flemington Station at 7:00 PM with expected return between 7:45 and 8:00 PM. IMPORTANT - SANTA IS NOT ON THIS TRAIN.