Following items are from lehighvalleylive.com on 9-22-08.
Train strikes, kills man in Phillipsburg
by Express-Times staff
Monday September 22, 2008, 11:09 AM
The engineer of a Norfolk Southern train saw a man on the tracks in Phillipsburg late Sunday night but was unable to stop in time to avoid striking him, police Chief Ed Mirenda said this morning.
The man was killed just before midnight between Stockton and Hanover streets. Police are not releasing his identity until his next of kin are notified, Mirenda said.
The chief had no information about why the man was on the train tracks. He said a news release with more information will be issued later today.
Man struck and killed by train in Phillipsburg was an Easton resident
by Tom Quigley
Monday September 22, 2008, 5:17 PM
Police today identified a man struck and killed by an Norfolk Southern train in Phillipsburg on Sunday night as Easton resident Thomas Houlihan. He was 35.
Houlihan, of the 400 block of Northampton Street, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said they responded to the tracks between Stockton Street and Hanover Street about 11:57 p.m.
"The incident is under investigation and pending results of an autopsy," Phillipsburg Police Detective Sgt. Robert Stettner said in a statement issued this afternoon.
It is routine procedure to conduct toxicology tests to determine if alcohol or other drugs contributed to the death.
Members of the Warren County Prosecutor's Office , Phillipsburg Fire Department and the Phillipsburg emergency squad responded to assist police.
This is the third time in less than a year that someone's been killed or seriously injured by a Norfolk Southern train in Phillipsburg.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
NJ Transit pictures
Following pictures are of NJ transit trains taken in August of this year.
First picture was taken at the Bound Brook train station. The others were all taken at Egan's crossing, a private grade crossing between Bound Brook and Somerville that provides access to the Egan-Davis Standard company plant. Note the new bilevel coaches in second picture.
First picture was taken at the Bound Brook train station. The others were all taken at Egan's crossing, a private grade crossing between Bound Brook and Somerville that provides access to the Egan-Davis Standard company plant. Note the new bilevel coaches in second picture.
Arkansas Shortlines
Received the following from Kermit Geary, Jr. Pictures, text, and captions are his.
Spent the day travelling across Arkansas checking on some shortlines that I haven't seen for a while...and some new ones that have started up in recent years.
Enjoy
East Camden & Highland switching at Highland Industrial Park
Warren & Saline River at Warren, AR
Arkansas Midland at McGhee, AR
Arkansas Midland at Lexa, AR
Spent the day travelling across Arkansas checking on some shortlines that I haven't seen for a while...and some new ones that have started up in recent years.
Enjoy
East Camden & Highland switching at Highland Industrial Park
Warren & Saline River at Warren, AR
Arkansas Midland at McGhee, AR
Arkansas Midland at Lexa, AR Prescott & North Western RR, Arkansas
Received the following from Kermit Geary, Jr. Pictures, text, and captions are his.
A true survivor in today's shortline scene is the tiny Prescott & North Western Railroad located in Prescott, Arkansas. The railroad started out as a lumber carrier of Potlatch Industries, carrying log trains from the woods to the mill at Prescott. When Potlatch closed the Ozan Mill in Prescott, the railroad continued to soldier on, serving its only customer...a Firestone Tire plant. Still on the roster are the three GE 70-Ton locomotives that the Railroad had dieselized with in the 1950's. A recently acquired EMD sw-1200 is on the property but seldom sees service as the 70-tonners are more fuel efficient!!!
Enjoy the photos of their operations as seen today, 9-10-2008
SW-1200 # 26
Leaving Firestone Plant
at shop
Making interchange with UP in Prescott, AR
A true survivor in today's shortline scene is the tiny Prescott & North Western Railroad located in Prescott, Arkansas. The railroad started out as a lumber carrier of Potlatch Industries, carrying log trains from the woods to the mill at Prescott. When Potlatch closed the Ozan Mill in Prescott, the railroad continued to soldier on, serving its only customer...a Firestone Tire plant. Still on the roster are the three GE 70-Ton locomotives that the Railroad had dieselized with in the 1950's. A recently acquired EMD sw-1200 is on the property but seldom sees service as the 70-tonners are more fuel efficient!!!
Enjoy the photos of their operations as seen today, 9-10-2008
SW-1200 # 26
Leaving Firestone Plant 
at shop
Making interchange with UP in Prescott, ARWednesday, September 24, 2008
Norfolk Southern and BLET Reach New Agreement
Received the following via email.
September 16, 2008
Norfolk Southern and BLET Reach New Agreement
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Railway Company and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) have reached a new agreement that will continue to link engineer compensation to company performance through 2014. The BLET has participated in such a bonus program since 1996.
The new agreement covers approximately 5,000 engineers and provides each engineer the opportunity for an annual bonus payment based on company financial and service performance metrics and, for the first time, his or her work availability in the previous year.
Other highlights of the agreement include annual wage increases totaling 19 percent from 2009 through 2014, enhancements to the BLET’s 401k plan, increased incentive pay for weekend/holiday work, reduced employee costs for the BLET disability plan, and increased pay for engineers who assist in training new engineers. The annual wage increases average approximately 3.2 percent per year. Eligible engineers will receive up to two lump-sum payments: a signing bonus of $1,200 by Dec. 1, 2008, and a lump-sum bonus payment of $3,500 by Jan. 1, 2009.
BLET General Chairman Ray Wallace said, “The BLET has enjoyed a strong partnership with Norfolk Southern over the years. This agreement ensures that Norfolk Southern’s success will continue to be financially beneficial to our members.”
BLET General Chairman Cole Davis added, “Engineers are an integral part of Norfolk Southern operations. The financial package in this agreement ensures that our members are compensated for their contributions to the company’s performance.”
BLET General Chairman Willard Knight concluded, “This agreement recognizes and rewards the hard work that our members perform each day to improve Norfolk Southern’s prosperity.”
Norfolk Southern Vice President Labor Relations Harold Mobley said, “Reaching a long term agreement that links engineer compensation to our corporate goals will allow all of us to continue to focus on the railroad’s safety, operating efficiency, and customer service.”
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Susan Terpay, 757-823-5204 (susan.terpay@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)
September 16, 2008
Norfolk Southern and BLET Reach New Agreement
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Railway Company and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) have reached a new agreement that will continue to link engineer compensation to company performance through 2014. The BLET has participated in such a bonus program since 1996.
The new agreement covers approximately 5,000 engineers and provides each engineer the opportunity for an annual bonus payment based on company financial and service performance metrics and, for the first time, his or her work availability in the previous year.
Other highlights of the agreement include annual wage increases totaling 19 percent from 2009 through 2014, enhancements to the BLET’s 401k plan, increased incentive pay for weekend/holiday work, reduced employee costs for the BLET disability plan, and increased pay for engineers who assist in training new engineers. The annual wage increases average approximately 3.2 percent per year. Eligible engineers will receive up to two lump-sum payments: a signing bonus of $1,200 by Dec. 1, 2008, and a lump-sum bonus payment of $3,500 by Jan. 1, 2009.
BLET General Chairman Ray Wallace said, “The BLET has enjoyed a strong partnership with Norfolk Southern over the years. This agreement ensures that Norfolk Southern’s success will continue to be financially beneficial to our members.”
BLET General Chairman Cole Davis added, “Engineers are an integral part of Norfolk Southern operations. The financial package in this agreement ensures that our members are compensated for their contributions to the company’s performance.”
BLET General Chairman Willard Knight concluded, “This agreement recognizes and rewards the hard work that our members perform each day to improve Norfolk Southern’s prosperity.”
Norfolk Southern Vice President Labor Relations Harold Mobley said, “Reaching a long term agreement that links engineer compensation to our corporate goals will allow all of us to continue to focus on the railroad’s safety, operating efficiency, and customer service.”
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Susan Terpay, 757-823-5204 (susan.terpay@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)
Warning!! Railroad oriented Porno
Received the following from Kermit Geary, Jr. Picture and text are his.
On UP at Texarkana, TX 9-9-2008.
A rainy day in Tx & Ar...
Received the following from Kermit Geary, Jr. Pictures, text, and captions are his.
On every trip, a little rain must fall.....in this case it was a LOT of rain....Streets were flooded and roads were closed in Eastern TX today.
Thanks to Digital being soooooo forgiving in bad weather, I offer the following for your enjoyment.
TNER/NEKM/CORP 3860 at Nash, TX
TNER 2166 at Nash, TX
Gateway Eastern 2000 at Texarkana, TX as KCS yard engine
WAMX (Arkansas Southern) 3809 at Nashville, AR
On every trip, a little rain must fall.....in this case it was a LOT of rain....Streets were flooded and roads were closed in Eastern TX today.
Thanks to Digital being soooooo forgiving in bad weather, I offer the following for your enjoyment.
TNER/NEKM/CORP 3860 at Nash, TX
TNER 2166 at Nash, TX 
Gateway Eastern 2000 at Texarkana, TX as KCS yard engine
WAMX (Arkansas Southern) 3809 at Nashville, AROld friends never die, they just fade away
Received the following from Kermit Geary, Jr. Pictures, text, and captons are his.
After chasing the DRGW 3154 down in Colorado a number of years ago...Shot it coupled to the 3155 and a GP-30!!!...it was nice to see the paint still survives even tho the number didn't...
A SP SD-40-3!! R built at Mountaintop, PA...gotta check my files and see if I have it being delivered!!!
Another old friend...a ex-BRC GP-38 still in BRC paint!
All taken in Texarkana, TX today...9-9-2008
UP 1900, ex DRGW 3154
SP 8681!!!!!!!
LLPX 2228 ex BRC
After chasing the DRGW 3154 down in Colorado a number of years ago...Shot it coupled to the 3155 and a GP-30!!!...it was nice to see the paint still survives even tho the number didn't...
A SP SD-40-3!! R built at Mountaintop, PA...gotta check my files and see if I have it being delivered!!!
Another old friend...a ex-BRC GP-38 still in BRC paint!
All taken in Texarkana, TX today...9-9-2008
UP 1900, ex DRGW 3154
SP 8681!!!!!!!
LLPX 2228 ex BRCWednesday, September 17, 2008
Southern Living is wonderful
Received the following text, pictures, and captions from Kermit Geary, Jr.
Finally a sunny day in Louisiana! Spent the day along the Speedway between Tremont and Gibsland LA. Saw more NS junk than KCS!!!! Oh Well, sign of the times, I guess.
A pair of "snakes"(at least that is what the locals call 'em) A pair of Belles at West Gibsland, LA
New power for Louisiana & NorthWestern at Gibsland. LA (ex Utah Central)
YUM..Catfish!!!! Best place to eat anywhere in the Northern Louisiana area!!
Finally a sunny day in Louisiana! Spent the day along the Speedway between Tremont and Gibsland LA. Saw more NS junk than KCS!!!! Oh Well, sign of the times, I guess.
A pair of "snakes"(at least that is what the locals call 'em) A pair of Belles at West Gibsland, LA
New power for Louisiana & NorthWestern at Gibsland. LA (ex Utah Central) 
YUM..Catfish!!!! Best place to eat anywhere in the Northern Louisiana area!! Electrified Railroading....Texas Style
Received the following text, pictures, and captions from Kermit Geary, Jr.
A very obscure rail operation in Eastern Texas is this semi-captive mine to power plant operation between Tatum & Dirgin, TX. Access points are scarce. Power used to be some E25B's built in the 1970's, now replaced by E60C's from Mexico. There is a sister operation in the Winfield TX area with NO access points to shoot from!!!
Texas Utilities 3311 west of Dirgin, TX
Texas Utilities 3312 & train leaving mine loadout at Tatum, TX
Texas Utilities 3312 roster shot
control car on Texas Utilities Train at Tatum, TX
A very obscure rail operation in Eastern Texas is this semi-captive mine to power plant operation between Tatum & Dirgin, TX. Access points are scarce. Power used to be some E25B's built in the 1970's, now replaced by E60C's from Mexico. There is a sister operation in the Winfield TX area with NO access points to shoot from!!!
Texas Utilities 3311 west of Dirgin, TX
Texas Utilities 3312 & train leaving mine loadout at Tatum, TX 
Texas Utilities 3312 roster shot 
control car on Texas Utilities Train at Tatum, TX Texas Meanderings
Received the following text and pictures from Kermit Geary, Jr.
After leaving the Texas Utilities operations, headed North towards another T-U facility near Winnfield, TX.
Found a couple of fairly rare RS4TC's switching the big Pilgrims Pride feed mill in Pittsburg, TX, and also the UP local working the yard.
At Winnfield, TX, found an ex Iowa Interstate unit now owned by GMTX on the UP branch.
Finally ended the day with a UP hotshot blasting through Mount Pleasant, TX on the old SSWofTexas!
After leaving the Texas Utilities operations, headed North towards another T-U facility near Winnfield, TX.
Found a couple of fairly rare RS4TC's switching the big Pilgrims Pride feed mill in Pittsburg, TX, and also the UP local working the yard.
At Winnfield, TX, found an ex Iowa Interstate unit now owned by GMTX on the UP branch.
Finally ended the day with a UP hotshot blasting through Mount Pleasant, TX on the old SSWofTexas!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Manville sounds the alert after death of 19-year-old
The following article appeared in the Star-Ledger on 9-7-08.
On track for safety
Manville sounds the alert after death of 19-year-old
BY JEANETTE RUNDQUIST
Star-Ledger Staff
The railroad tracks running through Manville have always been part of life in the small town.
Tragically, deaths along the tracks -- including the deaths of three teenagers within the past few years -- have too often also been a part of the community's rhythm.
Four months after high school senior Kevin Seit, 19, was struck and killed by a train while walking along the tracks, school officials, police and others are joining together to raise awareness about rail safety.
Police from Norfolk Southern Corp. and CSX Transportation, which own rail lines in Manville, in July stepped up enforcement of no-trespassing rules, issuing written warnings or tickets to more than 40 people. The Manville Business & Professional Association last month began distributing fliers aimed at keeping people off the tracks.
Manville High School sent awareness brochures home with student report cards in June, and on Sept. 12, the school and Operation Lifesaver, a non-profit organization that works to prevent rail fatalities, will hold assemblies for students.
"After we had another death on the railroad tracks of one of our students, I think it was a town outcry: 'What can we do?" said Manville High School Principal Mary McLoughlin, who said she has seen kids trying to jump on a train just a block from the high school, and yelled at them to get away.
"I think because it's so much easier to get to other parts of town by walking along the tracks, it's almost that the geography of the town makes it conducive for kids to walk on. Everybody's done it for all time. But parents need to tell their children that this is not safe," she said.
"Kids think they're invincible, they don't realize that fooling around can really injure themselves," McLoughlin said. "I hope this will make a difference."
The Federal Railroad Administration does not keep railroad casualty statistics by town, according to a spokesman. But looking county by county, between 2005 and May 2008, Somerset County had six trespassing casualties, the fifth most in New Jersey, according to administration statistics.
In 2007, New Jersey overall had 17 rail trespassing fatalities, placing the state ninth highest in that grim statistic, according to the administration.
Norfolk Southern supports raising awareness, but is blunt about the casualties being the result of trespassing. "We want to prevent any incident in which people are trespassing on our property. Just stay off the tracks. It's the law, for one thing, and the consequences of being struck by a train are serious," said Rudy Husband, spokesman for Norfolk Southern.
At Operation Lifesaver, the non-profit group that works to prevent railroad trespassing and grade crossing deaths, state coordinator Todd Hirt said his organization has given safety presentations around the state, including in Belmar, Point Pleasant and Allenhurst. The group is also hoping to do a presentation in Hillsborough this year; a teenage boy was struck and killed by a train there this summer as well.
"Our message is always the same. We're always alerting people to the danger, saying to only cross at public crossings," Hirt said. "We like to think it does make a difference."
He said the group wanted to do a presentation in Manville in 2002, but was not able to get into the schools.
McLoughlin was not principal in 2002, and said she could not answer the question of why the assembly was not held then. But she said the program is welcome now.
"I think we should have ongoing education. Had we done it five or six years ago, we'd have to do it again," she said. "There are going to be different kids in and out of the high school, and I think we should incorporate it in middle school. I think any time is a good time to educate."
Kevin Seit's mother, Dorothy, said her family is still struggling to cope with her son's death. The teenager, who was about a month shy of graduating from Manville High School, was walking to meet his mother, for a ride to his after-school job, when he was killed.
It is believed he was wearing an iPod at the time, and did not hear the approaching train. Police said it has been determined his death was accidental.
Some other deaths along the Manville tracks have been determined to be suicides, however, or have been alcohol-related, according to Manville Lt. John Crater.
Dorothy Seit spoke bitterly about the need for better fencing along the tracks -- she said there were holes that were fixed just after her son's death -- and more enforcement, which she said was rare before her boy died. She said trains also sound their horns loudly and more often now than before the accident.
She said education might help, but she wished it had started long ago.
"It's too little too late for us. But if it can prevent or help anyone, I think it would be a good thing," she said. "They should have done something a long time ago, and I'm sure they know that."
On track for safety
Manville sounds the alert after death of 19-year-old
BY JEANETTE RUNDQUIST
Star-Ledger Staff
The railroad tracks running through Manville have always been part of life in the small town.
Tragically, deaths along the tracks -- including the deaths of three teenagers within the past few years -- have too often also been a part of the community's rhythm.
Four months after high school senior Kevin Seit, 19, was struck and killed by a train while walking along the tracks, school officials, police and others are joining together to raise awareness about rail safety.
Police from Norfolk Southern Corp. and CSX Transportation, which own rail lines in Manville, in July stepped up enforcement of no-trespassing rules, issuing written warnings or tickets to more than 40 people. The Manville Business & Professional Association last month began distributing fliers aimed at keeping people off the tracks.
Manville High School sent awareness brochures home with student report cards in June, and on Sept. 12, the school and Operation Lifesaver, a non-profit organization that works to prevent rail fatalities, will hold assemblies for students.
"After we had another death on the railroad tracks of one of our students, I think it was a town outcry: 'What can we do?" said Manville High School Principal Mary McLoughlin, who said she has seen kids trying to jump on a train just a block from the high school, and yelled at them to get away.
"I think because it's so much easier to get to other parts of town by walking along the tracks, it's almost that the geography of the town makes it conducive for kids to walk on. Everybody's done it for all time. But parents need to tell their children that this is not safe," she said.
"Kids think they're invincible, they don't realize that fooling around can really injure themselves," McLoughlin said. "I hope this will make a difference."
The Federal Railroad Administration does not keep railroad casualty statistics by town, according to a spokesman. But looking county by county, between 2005 and May 2008, Somerset County had six trespassing casualties, the fifth most in New Jersey, according to administration statistics.
In 2007, New Jersey overall had 17 rail trespassing fatalities, placing the state ninth highest in that grim statistic, according to the administration.
Norfolk Southern supports raising awareness, but is blunt about the casualties being the result of trespassing. "We want to prevent any incident in which people are trespassing on our property. Just stay off the tracks. It's the law, for one thing, and the consequences of being struck by a train are serious," said Rudy Husband, spokesman for Norfolk Southern.
At Operation Lifesaver, the non-profit group that works to prevent railroad trespassing and grade crossing deaths, state coordinator Todd Hirt said his organization has given safety presentations around the state, including in Belmar, Point Pleasant and Allenhurst. The group is also hoping to do a presentation in Hillsborough this year; a teenage boy was struck and killed by a train there this summer as well.
"Our message is always the same. We're always alerting people to the danger, saying to only cross at public crossings," Hirt said. "We like to think it does make a difference."
He said the group wanted to do a presentation in Manville in 2002, but was not able to get into the schools.
McLoughlin was not principal in 2002, and said she could not answer the question of why the assembly was not held then. But she said the program is welcome now.
"I think we should have ongoing education. Had we done it five or six years ago, we'd have to do it again," she said. "There are going to be different kids in and out of the high school, and I think we should incorporate it in middle school. I think any time is a good time to educate."
Kevin Seit's mother, Dorothy, said her family is still struggling to cope with her son's death. The teenager, who was about a month shy of graduating from Manville High School, was walking to meet his mother, for a ride to his after-school job, when he was killed.
It is believed he was wearing an iPod at the time, and did not hear the approaching train. Police said it has been determined his death was accidental.
Some other deaths along the Manville tracks have been determined to be suicides, however, or have been alcohol-related, according to Manville Lt. John Crater.
Dorothy Seit spoke bitterly about the need for better fencing along the tracks -- she said there were holes that were fixed just after her son's death -- and more enforcement, which she said was rare before her boy died. She said trains also sound their horns loudly and more often now than before the accident.
She said education might help, but she wished it had started long ago.
"It's too little too late for us. But if it can prevent or help anyone, I think it would be a good thing," she said. "They should have done something a long time ago, and I'm sure they know that."
Norfolk Southern Whistle-Stop Train Delivers Safety Training
Received the following via email.
September 9, 2008
Norfolk Southern Whistle-Stop Train Delivers Safety Training to Emergency Responders in Georgia, Carolinas, and Virginia
NORFOLK, VA. -- A special train will travel to Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia Sept. 15-19 to provide emergency preparedness training to first responders as part of the 2008 Norfolk Southern TRANSCAER Whistle-Stop Tour.
TRANSCAER (Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response) is a nationwide program that assists communities in preparing for and responding to a possible hazardous material transportation incident.
“The Whistle-Stop Tour brings emergency preparedness training to response organizations and educates communities near major rail routes about rail equipment, chemical transportation, and the importance of planning for potential hazardous material transportation emergencies,” said Chuck Wehrmeister, Norfolk Southern’s vice president safety and environmental.
The tour kicks off in Austell, Ga., and makes stops in Greenville, S.C., Charlotte, N.C., Greensboro, N.C., and Roanoke, Va. More than 1,200 emergency responders are expected to participate in the training programs taught by chemical and rail transportation experts.
At each location, state and local emergency planning committees, emergency responders, and government officials can participate in hands-on drills and training sessions. Railroad training tank cars, specialized emergency response vehicles, and over-the-road tank trucks will be on display. More than 250 participants are expected at each stop.
This is the ninth TRANSCAER train Norfolk Southern has sponsored since 1994. More information, including local contacts, tour times, and program information, is available at www.transcaer.org. TRANSCAER members include volunteer representatives from the chemical manufacturing, transportation and distribution industries, and government. TRANSCAER sponsors include the Association of American Railroads, American Chemistry Council, The Chlorine Institute, Chemical Educational Foundation, CHEMTREC®, National Tank Truck Carriers Inc., U.S. Department of Energy (Environmental Management Office), and the Renewable Fuels Association.
The schedule for the 2008 TRANSCAER Whistle-Stop Tour will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as follows:
· Sept. 15 - Austell, Ga., NS Intermodal Facility, 6000 Westside Rd.
· Sept. 16 - Greenville, S.C., Amtrak Station, 1120 W. Washington St.
· Sept. 17 - Charlotte, N.C., NS Coach Yard, North Tryon St. near Amtrak Station
· Sept. 18 - Greensboro, N.C., NS Intermodal Facility, 1105 Meritt Dr.
· Sept. 19 - Roanoke, Va., NS South Yard, Reserve Ave.
The following companies and organizations are participating in the tour: Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, DuPont, Firefighters Education and Training Foundation, BASF, Hepaco Inc., Hulcher Services, Olin Corp., Operation Lifesaver of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, Operation Respond Institute, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Potash Corporation, SWS First Response, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Environmental Services, HMHTTC, National Foam, SRS Emergency Services, CHEMTREC, and Renewable Fuels Association.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contact:
(Media) Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
September 9, 2008
Norfolk Southern Whistle-Stop Train Delivers Safety Training to Emergency Responders in Georgia, Carolinas, and Virginia
NORFOLK, VA. -- A special train will travel to Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia Sept. 15-19 to provide emergency preparedness training to first responders as part of the 2008 Norfolk Southern TRANSCAER Whistle-Stop Tour.
TRANSCAER (Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response) is a nationwide program that assists communities in preparing for and responding to a possible hazardous material transportation incident.
“The Whistle-Stop Tour brings emergency preparedness training to response organizations and educates communities near major rail routes about rail equipment, chemical transportation, and the importance of planning for potential hazardous material transportation emergencies,” said Chuck Wehrmeister, Norfolk Southern’s vice president safety and environmental.
The tour kicks off in Austell, Ga., and makes stops in Greenville, S.C., Charlotte, N.C., Greensboro, N.C., and Roanoke, Va. More than 1,200 emergency responders are expected to participate in the training programs taught by chemical and rail transportation experts.
At each location, state and local emergency planning committees, emergency responders, and government officials can participate in hands-on drills and training sessions. Railroad training tank cars, specialized emergency response vehicles, and over-the-road tank trucks will be on display. More than 250 participants are expected at each stop.
This is the ninth TRANSCAER train Norfolk Southern has sponsored since 1994. More information, including local contacts, tour times, and program information, is available at www.transcaer.org. TRANSCAER members include volunteer representatives from the chemical manufacturing, transportation and distribution industries, and government. TRANSCAER sponsors include the Association of American Railroads, American Chemistry Council, The Chlorine Institute, Chemical Educational Foundation, CHEMTREC®, National Tank Truck Carriers Inc., U.S. Department of Energy (Environmental Management Office), and the Renewable Fuels Association.
The schedule for the 2008 TRANSCAER Whistle-Stop Tour will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as follows:
· Sept. 15 - Austell, Ga., NS Intermodal Facility, 6000 Westside Rd.
· Sept. 16 - Greenville, S.C., Amtrak Station, 1120 W. Washington St.
· Sept. 17 - Charlotte, N.C., NS Coach Yard, North Tryon St. near Amtrak Station
· Sept. 18 - Greensboro, N.C., NS Intermodal Facility, 1105 Meritt Dr.
· Sept. 19 - Roanoke, Va., NS South Yard, Reserve Ave.
The following companies and organizations are participating in the tour: Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, DuPont, Firefighters Education and Training Foundation, BASF, Hepaco Inc., Hulcher Services, Olin Corp., Operation Lifesaver of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, Operation Respond Institute, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Potash Corporation, SWS First Response, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Environmental Services, HMHTTC, National Foam, SRS Emergency Services, CHEMTREC, and Renewable Fuels Association.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contact:
(Media) Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
Friday, September 12, 2008
Weekly Rail Carloading Report - Week 36, 2008
There is an interesting report available on the web that is "A Weekly Report of North American Rail Freight Traffic by Major Railroad and Commodity." It is currently showing data for week 36 of 2008. Take a look.
http://railfax.transmatch.com/
Here is an example of the information available on this web site. This graph shows Total Traffic for 2007-2008 vs. 2006-2007. There are more graphs and tables on the web site showing data by railroad and by commodity.
http://railfax.transmatch.com/
Here is an example of the information available on this web site. This graph shows Total Traffic for 2007-2008 vs. 2006-2007. There are more graphs and tables on the web site showing data by railroad and by commodity.
Note: This web site has new tables and graphs every Thursday. So, if I am late or miss a week with this blog posting, you can check for new data on Thursdays.
Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to Address Dahlman Rose Global Transportation Conference
Received the following via email. This guy gets around. See posting below.
September 3, 2008
Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to Address Dahlman Rose Global Transportation Conference
NORFOLK, VA. - James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer for Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC), will address the First Annual Global Transportation Conference presented by Dahlman Rose & Company at 1:30 p.m. (EDT) on Thursday, Sept. 11, in New York City.
The presentation will provide highlights of Norfolk Southern’s current business and growth initiatives. Interested investors can listen via a simultaneous webcast at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/dahlman2/nsc/. After the webcast, the presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
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Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)
September 3, 2008
Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to Address Dahlman Rose Global Transportation Conference
NORFOLK, VA. - James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer for Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC), will address the First Annual Global Transportation Conference presented by Dahlman Rose & Company at 1:30 p.m. (EDT) on Thursday, Sept. 11, in New York City.
The presentation will provide highlights of Norfolk Southern’s current business and growth initiatives. Interested investors can listen via a simultaneous webcast at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/dahlman2/nsc/. After the webcast, the presentation will be posted at www.nscorp.com.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)
Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to Address NYSE Euronext Investment Conference in Tokyo
Received the following via email.
September 5, 2008
Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to Address NYSE Euronext Investment Conference in Tokyo
NORFOLK, VA. – James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer for Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the NYSE Euronext Investment Conference in Tokyo at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 8 (10 p.m. EDT, Sunday, Sept. 7, in the U.S.).
Squires will provide highlights of Norfolk Southern’s current business and growth initiatives. After the presentation, it will be posted at www.nscorp.com.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)
September 5, 2008
Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to Address NYSE Euronext Investment Conference in Tokyo
NORFOLK, VA. – James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer for Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the NYSE Euronext Investment Conference in Tokyo at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 8 (10 p.m. EDT, Sunday, Sept. 7, in the U.S.).
Squires will provide highlights of Norfolk Southern’s current business and growth initiatives. After the presentation, it will be posted at www.nscorp.com.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serving every major container port in the eastern United States and providing superior connections to western rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is North America’s largest rail carrier of metals and automotive products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Leanne Marilley, 757-629-2861 (leanne.marilley@nscorp.com)
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Steamtown Exhibit on DL&W's Scranton Station
Following item is from the Steamtown National Historic Site (Scranton, PA) web site.
For more information, visit www.nps.gov/stea.
100 Years: The DL&W Railroad`s Scranton Passenger Station
Date: Everyday from 8/18/2008 to 12/31/2008
Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Changing Exhibits Gallery
Details:
Steamtown National Historic Site, downtown Scranton, welcomes a new exhibit, “100 Years: The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad`s Scranton Passenger Station” on Monday, August 18. The exhibit illustrates the key role that this prominent Scranton landmark played in the life of the everyday man, through archival photographs, news stories and advertisements. The exhibit was conceived, designed and produced by Interpretation & Education Division personnel at Steamtown NHS, in partnership with the Lackawanna County Library System, the Lackawanna Heritage Valley, Lackawanna Historical Society, the Radisson Lackawanna Station hotel, and the Scranton Times-Tribune. It will be on display at the park’s Changing Exhibit’s Gallery through December; an abridged exhibit is also on display along the first floor halls at the hotel.
Fees:
Included with the Park Entrance Fee
For more information, visit www.nps.gov/stea.
100 Years: The DL&W Railroad`s Scranton Passenger Station
Date: Everyday from 8/18/2008 to 12/31/2008
Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Changing Exhibits Gallery
Details:
Steamtown National Historic Site, downtown Scranton, welcomes a new exhibit, “100 Years: The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad`s Scranton Passenger Station” on Monday, August 18. The exhibit illustrates the key role that this prominent Scranton landmark played in the life of the everyday man, through archival photographs, news stories and advertisements. The exhibit was conceived, designed and produced by Interpretation & Education Division personnel at Steamtown NHS, in partnership with the Lackawanna County Library System, the Lackawanna Heritage Valley, Lackawanna Historical Society, the Radisson Lackawanna Station hotel, and the Scranton Times-Tribune. It will be on display at the park’s Changing Exhibit’s Gallery through December; an abridged exhibit is also on display along the first floor halls at the hotel.
Fees:
Included with the Park Entrance Fee
Bomb scare spurs search of train in N.J.
Following article appeared in the Daily Record (NJ) on 8-6-08.
Bomb scare spurs search of train in N.J.
NORTH BERGEN (AP) -- A suspicious package found aboard a CSX train car Friday night contained some type of electronic device that bomb squad members doused with a water cannon, authorities said. However, it was not immediately clear what type of device it was or whether it was capable of causing any damage, officials said.
The train had been stopped in North Bergen, in the area of West Side Avenue and 57th Street, at about 5:30 p.m. after a Florida woman reported that a Federal Express package containing a bomb might be aboard the train.
The car containing the suspicious package was detached at the scene and, while the rest of the train continued on to a nearby train depot, bomb squads started searching the detached car for the parcel. Officials told The Jersey Journal of Jersey City that the woman called CSX on Friday morning to tell them about the package, which she believed was sent by her ex-boyfriend. She later admitted her call was a hoax, but authorities continued to search for the package she referred to and found it shortly after the search began.
No injuries were reported in the incident.
Bomb scare spurs search of train in N.J.
NORTH BERGEN (AP) -- A suspicious package found aboard a CSX train car Friday night contained some type of electronic device that bomb squad members doused with a water cannon, authorities said. However, it was not immediately clear what type of device it was or whether it was capable of causing any damage, officials said.
The train had been stopped in North Bergen, in the area of West Side Avenue and 57th Street, at about 5:30 p.m. after a Florida woman reported that a Federal Express package containing a bomb might be aboard the train.
The car containing the suspicious package was detached at the scene and, while the rest of the train continued on to a nearby train depot, bomb squads started searching the detached car for the parcel. Officials told The Jersey Journal of Jersey City that the woman called CSX on Friday morning to tell them about the package, which she believed was sent by her ex-boyfriend. She later admitted her call was a hoax, but authorities continued to search for the package she referred to and found it shortly after the search began.
No injuries were reported in the incident.
Union Pacific Boo Boo - I'd hate to be the dispatcher/router!
Received the following pictures and text via email. This happened in June 2008.
Because of all the flooding in the Midwest the UP rerouted this double stack train through the Detroit-Windsor tunnel. This was not a good idea.
Because of all the flooding in the Midwest the UP rerouted this double stack train through the Detroit-Windsor tunnel. This was not a good idea.
Lackawanna RailFest 2008
Lackawanna RailFest 2008 was held on Labor Day weekend at the Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, PA. There was lots of railroad equipment to see, shops were open for tours, and there were steam powered excursions.
We received the following pictures, captions and text from Kermit Geary, Jr.
Another RailFest is now history in Scranton! Well attended and with much to see and do in the Steamtown facility, this annual event should be a must see for all. And with the Festival de Italiano in downtown Scranton, plenty of good eats were also available!! Unfortunately, the weather on Saturday left a lot to be desired, but Sunday was crystal clear....As a famous railroad editor put ..."that's why there is a turd in Sa'turd'ay..and a Sun in 'Sun'day!!!!! Enjoy these cloudy shots taken on Saturday!
CN 3254 takes a spin on the turntable
Private Car "Hickory Creek" on display
We received the following pictures, captions and text from Kermit Geary, Jr.
Another RailFest is now history in Scranton! Well attended and with much to see and do in the Steamtown facility, this annual event should be a must see for all. And with the Festival de Italiano in downtown Scranton, plenty of good eats were also available!! Unfortunately, the weather on Saturday left a lot to be desired, but Sunday was crystal clear....As a famous railroad editor put ..."that's why there is a turd in Sa'turd'ay..and a Sun in 'Sun'day!!!!! Enjoy these cloudy shots taken on Saturday!
Visiting diesels sun themselves before the show starts
CP 2317 on table
Amtrak 75 leaves turntable after taking a spin....by Troy Rogers
CN 3254 takes a spin on the turntable 
CN 3254 leaving Turntable at start of day
Private Car "Hickory Creek" on display 
3254 enters roundhouse at end of day
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