Sparse sightings!

(Train sightings on 2-18-12 & 2-20-12.)

...despite some sunny skies, the sightings along the Lehigh and Trenton Lines were almost non-existent. Prior to my arrival in Three Bridges, LEHL NS trains 11J headed west and then 18G and 22V would come east. NS 21M got the block signal at MP 48 that it would be taking the siding at Flemington Jct (MP 51) while NS 212, with NS 9928 as the leader and is seen here passing through Three Bridges around 10 AM on Saturday.

President's Day was just as quiet along the CSX's Trenton Line. CSX 770, with CSX 2692 and CSX 2804, is seen heading east at Belle Mead with its short consist of mixed freight.

NS to debut heritage fleet

Received the following via email.

Norfolk Southern to debut heritage fleet

Published: February 16, 2012

NORFOLK, Va. - To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Norfolk & Western/Southern merger in 1982, Norfolk Southern plans to honor many of the railroads that make up the present day NS system. Norfolk Southern plans to create a fleet of heritage locomotives: 18 units honoring a wide variety of predecessor roads.

The locomotives will be 10 SD70ACes on order from EMD that are being constructed at its Muncie, Ind., plant, and eight ES44ACs from an upcoming order for 25 units from GE. While EMD will paint all 10 heritage units in-house, NS forces will paint the eight GEs. The railroad's Altoona, Pa., shop will paint five, while the Chattanooga, Tenn., shop will handle three heritage units.

The 18 predecessor railroads selected for heritage paint are:

. Central of Georgia
. Conrail
. Erie
. Erie Lackawanna
. Leigh Valley (red)
. New Haven (not definite yet)
. New York Central
. Nickel Plate Road
. Norfolk & Western (blue)
. Penn Central
. Pennsylvania (Tuscan Red)
. Pittsburg & West Virginia
. Reading
. Savanna & Atlanta
. Southern
. Tennessee, Alabama & Georgia
. Virginian
. Wabash

NS plans to recreate the paint schemes as accurately as possible. By contrast Union Pacific, a half-decade ago painted several units to honor the merged companies that make up today's UP, used the old railroads' logos and colors, but created new interpretations on the old liveries.

(From Trains Newswire)

NS pens deal with Dynamic Fuels and Mansfield Oil

Received the following via email.

February 14, 2012

Norfolk Southern pens deal with Dynamic Fuels and Mansfield Oil
Norfolk Southern becomes first fleet user in the U.S. to deploy clean renewable diesel

NORFOLK, VA. – Dynamic Fuels, LLC and Mansfield Oil Company have signed an agreement to supply renewable diesel to Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE / NSC), one of the nation’s largest transporters of coal and industrial products. Norfolk Southern has primarily been using a 100% pure Dynamic Fuels renewable diesel at its Meridian, Mississippi rail yard since early January.

Dynamic Fuels, a 50/50 venture owned by Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE / TSN) and Syntroleum Corporation (NASDAQ / SYNM), recently signed commercial off-take and strategic alliance agreements with Mansfield to market renewable diesel to fleet customers. Dynamic Fuels, operator of the first commercial advanced biofuels plant in the United States, produces next-generation renewable and synthetic fuels from animal fats and greases. The company’s Geismar, La., plant produces renewable diesel as “drop in” fuel that can replace 100% of petroleum diesel in a diesel engine without engine modification.

“Norfolk Southern is pleased to be the first fleet user of renewable diesel in the United States,” said Gerhard Thelen, Norfolk Southern vice president operations planning and support. “Our locomotive engines are completely compatible with the pure renewable diesel provided by Dynamic Fuels and Mansfield. Together, they have provided seamless integration of renewable diesel supply into our Meridian, Miss., yard. Norfolk Southern has been at the forefront of the railroad industry in evaluating synthetic and renewable diesel fuels for many years. This effort exemplifies Norfolk Southern’s commitment to reducing carbon and other emissions, while further integrating sustainability throughout the operations of the company.”

“The contract with Norfolk Southern is the first manifestation of Dynamic Fuels’ partnership with Mansfield,” said Ron Stinebaugh, senior vice president of Syntroleum Corporation. "We look forward to working with Norfolk Southern to lower their emissions and increase the renewable content of the fuel they burn. Renewable diesel is a sustainable, ultra clean burning, high cetane fuel that reduces carbon emissions and significantly reduces particulates and NOx when combusted in existing diesel engines. Supplying a prestigious company like Norfolk Southern validates our belief that customers are looking for renewable options that increase sustainability and lower emissions without sacrificing fuel quality.”

Doug Haugh, president of Mansfield Oil Company added, “Mansfield and Norfolk Southern have had a strong relationship on the refined products side and we’re excited to supply them with a next-generation fuel like renewable diesel. We believe Dynamic Fuels is a leader in renewable diesel production and our partnership affords us the opportunity to further diversify our portfolio of transportation fuels for our customers.”

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

About Mansfield Oil Company
Ranked as one of the Top 50 privately held companies in America by Forbes magazine and a multiple category finalist in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 Platts Global Energy Awards, Mansfield defines the next generation transportation fuels company. Founded in 1957, the company has achieved double-digit growth for three decades by focusing on optimizing and controlling fuel-related costs for its customers using innovation, technology and high touch service. For more information, visit http://www.mansfieldoil.com/.

About Tyson Foods
Tyson Foods, Inc., founded in 1935 with headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest processors and marketers of chicken, beef and pork, the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 and a member of the S&P 500. The company produces a wide variety of protein-based and prepared food products and is the recognized market leader in the retail and foodservice markets it serves. Tyson provides products and services to customers throughout the United States and more than 130 countries. The company has approximately 115,000 Team Members employed at more than 400 facilities and offices in the United States and around the world. Through its Core Values, Code of Conduct and Team Member Bill of Rights, Tyson strives to operate with integrity and trust and is committed to creating value for its shareholders, customers and Team Members. The company also strives to be faith-friendly, provide a safe work environment and serve as stewards of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it. The Tyson Foods, Inc. logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=3224.

About Syntroleum
Syntroleum Corporation owns the Syntroleum® Process for Fischer-Tropsch (FT) conversion of synthesis gas derived from biomass, coal, natural gas and other carbon-based feedstocks into liquid hydrocarbons, the Synfining® Process for upgrading FT liquid hydrocarbons into middle distillate products such as synthetic diesel and jet fuels, and the Bio-Synfining(R) technology for converting animal fat and vegetable oil feedstocks into middle distillate products such as renewable diesel and jet fuel using inedible fats and greases as feedstock. The 50/50 venture -- known as Dynamic Fuels -- was formed to construct and operate multiple renewable synthetic fuels facilities, with production on the first site beginning in 2010. The Company plans to use its portfolio of technologies to develop and participate in synthetic and renewable fuel projects. For additional information, visit the Company's web site at http://www.syntroleum.com/.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

Mansfield Oil Company contacts:
(Media) Olivia Wall, 678-450-2077 (owall@mansfieldoil.com)

Tyson Foods, Inc. contacts:
(Media) Gary Mickelson, 479-290-6111 (gary.mickelson@tyson.com)

Syntroleum Corporation contacts:
(Media) Amanda Burns, 918-764-3490 (mburns@syntroleum.com)

What a difference a year makes!

(Train sightings at Belle Mead, NJ on 4-30-11 and 2-11-12.)

Back in April 30, 2011, I headed down towards CSX's Trenton Line @ Belle Mead (NJ) and was fortunate enough to catch eastbound CSX Q190. It is seen passing beneath the old Route 206 highway bridge and by one of the two buildings that were once part of the ex-Reading's station here. One year later on February 11, CSX K533 is seen passing by the same location under gray skies. Motive power on this Saturday was CSX 312 and CSX 231. Gone is the Route 206 bridge as it has been replaced by the bridge in the background. As for that station's waiting area, that is in desperate need of some mason work if it is ever to be used again as part of NJ Transit's plans to utilize this line for passenger service.

CNJ Newark Bay drawbridge footings to be removed

Received the following via email.

Some more of the CNJ Newark Bay Drawbridge is finally being removed!

Old railroad bridge footings to be blasted

Feb 10, 2012

BAYONNE - The Army Corps of Engineers has advised the city of Bayonne that the New York/New Jersey Harbor Deepening Project will be drilling and blasting in Newark Bay for approximately one week, beginning on or about Monday, Feb. 13. The goal of that project is to create deeper lanes for shipping in local bodies of water. The project’s contractor, Northeast Dredging Company, will be drilling and blasting concrete footings of the old Newark Bay railroad bridge. That bridge used to carry passengers trains over Newark Bay between Bayonne and Elizabeth. The bridge was demolished three decades ago.

Anyone with concerns or complaints about the harbor deepening activity in Newark Bay should call the Army Corps of Engineers hotline at 201-339-6470.

The blasting will be performed only during daylight hours, and not on Sundays or federal holidays.

http://www.hudsonreporter.com/view/full_stories_home/17490259/article-Old-railroad-bridge-footings-to-be-blasted-?instance=up_to_the_minute_lead_story_left_column

CSX Declares Quarterly Dividend

Received the following via email.

CSX Corporation Declares Quarterly Dividend

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., (February 8, 2012) - Earlier today, the Board of Directors of CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) approved a $0.12 per share quarterly cash dividend on the company's common stock. The dividend is payable on March 15, 2012, to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 29, 2012.

CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/.

Contact:

David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812

Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279

NS names Weaver VP Labor Relations; Mobley retires

Received the following via email.

February 7, 2012

Norfolk Southern names Weaver VP Labor Relations; Mobley retires

NORFOLK, VA. – Scott R. Weaver has been named vice president labor relations for Norfolk Southern Corporation, with headquarters in Norfolk, effective March 1. He will report to John P. Rathbone, executive vice president administration.

Weaver succeeds Harold R. Mobley, who retires after a 44-year career in the railroad industry.

Weaver joined Norfolk Southern in 1989 as a labor relations specialist and served in various positions of increasing responsibility in the labor relations department until being named assistant vice president labor relations in 2008. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Davidson College.

Mobley, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Valparaiso University, began his railroad career with Penn Central as a yard brakeman in 1968. He joined Southern Railway Company (a Norfolk Southern predecessor) in 1971 as a management trainee. He served in a number of positions in the engineering, transportation, and labor relations departments and was named vice president labor relations in 2008.

“Norfolk Southern thanks Harold for his long and outstanding service and for guiding our labor relations department through some challenging times,” said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “We wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

The old Route 206 Bridge is now history...

(Train sightings on 2-3-12.)

On January 29th, I ventured down to Belle Mead (NJ) in order to check on the old Route 206's status to see if its demolition was starting. Ritacco Construction had started to prepare for the span over CSX's Trenton Line for its removal. Fast forward to the afternoon of February 3rd and that old span was now history! The speed with which the span was dismantled was amazing. Two images what it looked like on February 3rd. The northbound mixed freight is CSX Q410 and (southbound) CSX K532 leader is CSX 912. Can't wait to capture the next phase of this construction, namely the removal of the bridge abutments.

 

CSX CFO to address transportation conference

Received the following via email.

CSX Corporation Chief Financial Officer to Address Stifel Nicolaus Transportation & Logistics Conference

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., (February 7, 2012) - Fredrik Eliasson, CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) executive vice president and chief financial officer, will address the Stifel Nicolaus Transportation & Logistics Conference in Key Biscayne, Florida on Tuesday, February 14, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

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

About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/.

Contact:

David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812

Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279

NS CFO Squires to address transportation conference

Received the following via email.

Feb. 3, 2012

Norfolk Southern CFO Squires to address Stifel Nicolaus Transportation Conference

NORFOLK, VA. – James A. Squires, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation, will address the Stifel Nicolaus Transportation Conference at 9 a.m. EST on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, in Key Biscayne, Fla.

Interested investors can listen via simultaneous webcast at http://www.media-server.com/m/p/p5i762cp. After the webcast, the presentation will be posted at http://www.nscorp.com/.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

Wild Mary (WM) Revival in 2011

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

While taking a close friend home to the Charleston, WV area yesterday (12-22-11), We stopped by the George's Creek Rwy only to find them readying the locomotives for their first run on the railway! It was a wonderful way to close out an interesting year with some original WM locos running on WM Trackage!

Long Live THE Wild Mary!!!

Thanks to Gerald Altizer and his crew for allowing us access to this historic event.

WM 303 crosses MD 939 in Barton, MD

WM 25 - 303 passing display caboose B&O C-2060 in Barton, MD

WM 25 - 303 passing Town Hall in Barton, MD

WM 303 - 25 pass old Dodge truck in Barton, MD

WM 303....Home at last on the WM

WM 303 leads first train on the Georges Creek RWY in Barton, MD

WM 303 passing Post Office in Barton, MD

CSX Announces Record Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2011 Earnings Per Share

Received the following via email.

CSX Announces Record Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2011 Earnings Per Share

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - January 23, 2012 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced fourth quarter 2011 earnings of $0.43 per share, versus $0.38 per share in the same period last year. This represents a 13 percent year-over-year improvement in earnings per share and a fourth quarter record. The results were driven by revenues of nearly $3.0 billion, operating income of $841 million and an operating ratio of 71.5 percent.

"CSX once again delivered record earnings per share while investing in resources to support high customer service levels and growth in the near- and long-term," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Our performance in 2011 has set a strong foundation for growth, and CSX remains committed to achieving a 65 percent operating ratio by no later than 2015."

For the full year, CSX generated record performance in revenue, operating income, operating ratio and earnings per share. Revenues increased 10 percent to $11.7 billion, operating income rose 11 percent to $3.4 billion, the operating ratio improved to 70.9 percent, and earnings per share improved 24 percent to $1.67.

This earnings announcement, as well as a package of detailed financial information, is contained in the CSX Quarterly Financial Report available on the company's website at http://investors.csx.com/ and on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CSX executives will conduct a quarterly earnings conference call with the investment community on January 24, 2012, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time. Investors, media and the public may listen to the conference call by dialing 1-888-327-6279 (888-EARN-CSX) and asking 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. In conjunction with the call, a live webcast will be accessible and presentation materials will be posted on the company's website at http://investors.csx.com/. Following the earnings call, an internet replay of the presentation will be archived on the company website.

CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects to more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/.

Forward-looking Statements

This information and other statements by the company may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act with respect to, among other items: projections and estimates of earnings, revenues, volumes, rates, cost-savings, expenses, taxes, liquidity, capital expenditures, dividends, share repurchases or other financial items, statements of management's plans, strategies and objectives for future operations, and management's expectations as to future performance and operations and the time by which objectives will be achieved, statements concerning proposed new services, and statements regarding future economic, industry or market conditions or performance. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate," "preliminary" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. If the company updates any forward-looking statement, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to that statement or any other forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, and actual performance or results could differ materially from that anticipated by any forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements include, among others; (i) the company's success in implementing its financial and operational initiatives; (ii) changes in domestic or international economic, political or business conditions, including those affecting the transportation industry (such as the impact of industry competition, conditions, performance and consolidation); (iii) legislative or regulatory changes; (iv) the inherent business risks associated with safety and security; (v) the outcome of claims and litigation involving or affecting the company; (vi) natural events such as severe weather conditions or pandemic health crises; and (vii) the inherent uncertainty associated with projecting economic and business conditions.

Other important assumptions and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are specified in the company's SEC reports, accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and the company's website at www.csx.com.

Contact:
David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812
Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279

CSX Names New COO and CFO

Received the following via email.

CSX Names New Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - January 23, 2012 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced the appointments of Oscar Munoz as executive vice president and chief operating officer and Fredrik J. Eliasson as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective immediately.

Munoz replaces David A. Brown, who is no longer with the company. The company's decision to make this change is unrelated to CSX's financial condition, business performance or outlook, all of which are strong.

"Oscar Munoz is a proven leader who has been an integral part of creating the company's vision and success," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "He brings tremendous business skills, a disciplined approach and a passion for superior results."

Munoz has been executive vice president and chief financial officer of CSX since 2003, responsible for all financial, strategic planning, information technology, procurement and real estate activities. Prior to joining CSX he held senior leadership roles at PepsiCo, Coca-Cola and AT&T.

Munoz is a member of the board of directors of United Airlines, as well as several local and national educational and philanthropic institutions. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California and a master's of business administration from Pepperdine University.

Succeeding Munoz as chief financial officer is Fredrik Eliasson, a 16-year veteran CSX executive. "Fredrik brings broad senior leadership experience and a track record of success in key financial and commercial roles," said Ward. "He has invaluable insight into creating value for shareholders and customers, as well as clear focus and skill in business execution."

Eliasson was vice president of sales and marketing for CSX's chemicals and fertilizer business and previously headed the emerging markets business. Before that, he was vice president of financial planning and analysis, overseeing all aspects of planning, forecasting and economic analysis activities.

Eliasson is on the board of directors of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. He earned a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in business administration from Virginia Commonwealth University.

CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects to more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/.

Forward-looking Statements

This information and other statements by the company may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act with respect to, among other items: projections and estimates of earnings, revenues, volumes, rates, cost-savings, expenses, taxes, liquidity, capital expenditures, dividends, share repurchases or other financial items, statements of management's plans, strategies and objectives for future operations, and management's expectations as to future performance and operations and the time by which objectives will be achieved, statements concerning proposed new services, and statements regarding future economic, industry or market conditions or performance. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate," "preliminary" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. If the company updates any forward-looking statement, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to that statement or any other forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, and actual performance or results could differ materially from that anticipated by any forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements include, among others; (i) the company's success in implementing its financial and operational initiatives; (ii) changes in domestic or international economic, political or business conditions, including those affecting the transportation industry (such as the impact of industry competition, conditions, performance and consolidation); (iii) legislative or regulatory changes; (iv) the inherent business risks associated with safety and security; (v) the outcome of claims and litigation involving or affecting the company; (vi) natural events such as severe weather conditions or pandemic health crises; and (vii) the inherent uncertainty associated with projecting economic and business conditions.

Other important assumptions and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are specified in the company's SEC reports, accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and the company's website at www.csx.com.

Contact:
David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812
Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279

Woodland Scenics Fire Update

The following is from the Woodland Scenics dealers newsletter for January, 2012.

Fire Update

Out of the Ashes...

Many of you may have already heard that we had a fire at our manufacturing plant in Linn Creek, Missouri on Thursday, January 5, 2012. We have much to be thankful for.

We are most grateful that no one was hurt. Our employees followed evacuation procedures to the letter, getting everyone out of here, accounted for and shutting down power sources.

The Osage Beach Fire Department and several other responding fire departments were amazing. They responded quickly and their professionalism and tireless efforts successfully contained the fire.

The determined cause of the fire was the failure of an electrical motor, and the fire took eight percent of our total facilities. Manufacturing and shipping operations in other buildings continued even as the firefighters fought the blaze.

Several of us returned to work Friday morning to assist with clean-up and get business operations up and running. We took orders and shipped product, and some of us even worked through the weekend to make sure that we were all back to work Monday morning, January 9.

We are so grateful for the outpouring of support we received from our friends and customers. We heard from folks from all over the world. We are very appreciative and humbled by all the encouragement, prayers and offers to help. Thanks again!

We still have some clean-up to do, but we are back to business as usual!

Also see our post for Friday, January 06, 2012, titled Woodland Scenics Update: Fire.

NS increases dividend

Received the following via email.

January 24, 2012

Norfolk Southern increases dividend

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation announced that its Board of Directors today voted to increase the regular quarterly dividend on the company’s common stock by 9.3 percent, or 4 cents per share, from 43 to 47 cents per share. The increased dividend is payable on March 10, to stockholders of record on Feb. 3. Since its inception in 1982, Norfolk Southern has paid dividends on its common stock for 118 consecutive quarters.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Susan Terpay, 757-823-5204 (susan.terpay@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

NS reports 2011 fourth-quarter and full-year results

Received the following via email.

January 24, 2012

Norfolk Southern reports 2011 fourth-quarter and full-year results

For 2011 vs. 2010:

NS set the following fourth-quarter records:
· Railway operating revenues reached $2.8 billion, up 17 percent.
· Net income increased 19 percent to $480 million.
· Diluted earnings per share rose 30 percent to $1.42.

NS set the following records for the year:
· Railway operating revenues reached $11.2 billion, up 17 percent.
· Income from railway operations climbed 20 percent to $3.2 billion.
· Net income was $1.9 billion, up 28 percent.
· Diluted earnings per share increased 36 percent to $5.45.

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation today reported record fourth-quarter net income of $480 million, 19 percent higher compared with $402 million for the same quarter of 2010. Diluted earnings per share were a record $1.42, up 30 percent compared with the $1.09 per diluted share earned in the same period a year earlier.

For 2011, net income increased to an all-time record $1.9 billion, 28 percent higher compared with $1.5 billion for 2010. Diluted earnings per share for the year increased 36 percent, or $1.45, to a record $5.45, compared with 2010.

“Norfolk Southern achieved all-time records for revenues, operating income, net income, and earnings per share during 2011, and set fourth-quarter records for revenues, net income, and earnings per share,” said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “In 2012 we will remain committed to enhancing our service product, maintaining the safety and quality of our rail network, improving operational efficiency, and supporting growth.”

“Our strong capital program of $2.4 billion will include substantial investments along our Crescent Corridor, a public-private partnership to create a high-capacity, truck-competitive intermodal freight rail route between the Gulf Coast and Northeast,” Moorman said. “As part of this program of projects, we plan to open intermodal terminals in Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee later in the year. Facilities such as these relieve congested freight lines and highways, and are proven centers for creating jobs and economic development.”

Railway operating revenues increased to $2.8 billion, a fourth-quarter record, up 17 percent compared with the same period a year earlier. For 2011, railway operating revenues set an all-time record $11.2 billion, 17 percent higher compared with 2010. The improvements were the result of increases in revenue per unit of 11 percent for the quarter and 12 percent for the year and higher volumes that were up 6 percent for the quarter and 5 percent for the year.

General merchandise revenues rose to $1.4 billion, up 13 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010. For 2011, general merchandise revenues increased to $5.6 billion, 12 percent higher compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased 1 percent in the quarter and was even for the year compared with the same periods of 2010.

Coal revenues in the fourth quarter were $850 million, up 24 percent compared with the same period last year. For 2011, coal revenues were $3.5 billion, 27 percent higher compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased 3 percent in the quarter and 4 percent for the year compared with the same periods of 2010.

Intermodal revenues were $554 million, up 18 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010. For the year, intermodal revenues were $2.1 billion, up 19 percent compared with 2010. Traffic volume increased by 11 percent in the quarter and 10 percent for 2011 compared with the same periods of 2010.

Railway operating expenses were $2 billion for the fourth quarter, 14 percent higher compared with the same period a year earlier. For 2011, railway operating expenses were $8 billion, up 16 percent compared with 2010. The increases were primarily driven by fuel expenses, which rose by $95 million in the fourth quarter and $510 million for the year, and higher costs associated with increased traffic volumes.

Income from railway operations increased 25 percent for the quarter to $800 million and improved 20 percent to a record $3.2 billion for the year, compared with the same periods of 2010.

Fourth-quarter 2011 results included $11 million in deferred income tax benefits attributable to state tax law changes. The year included $68 million of favorable, non-recurring income tax benefits.

The fourth-quarter railway operating ratio improved by 2 percent to 71.4 percent compared with the same period last year. For 2011, the railway operating ratio improved by 1 percent to 71.2 percent compared with 2010.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

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Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 ( fsbrown@nscorp.com )
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 ( michael.hostutler@nscorp.com )

Extension of Heartland Corridor from Columbus to Cincinnati, Ohio, benefits Port of Virginia

Received the following via email.

January 19, 2012

Extension of Heartland Corridor from Columbus to Cincinnati, Ohio, benefits Port of Virginia

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern has cleared the way for more double-stack intermodal trains to use its Heartland Corridor with the opening this week of a newly improved double-stack rail line between Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio. The Heartland Connector will reduce transit times by one to two days and increase service reliability for double-stack freight traveling to and from the Port of Virginia and Cincinnati and Detroit.

The improvements also will provide Norfolk Southern with the potential to connect Ohio Valley markets to other major East Coast container ports.

The Heartland Connector project is a public-private partnership among Norfolk Southern, Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio Rail Development Commission, and Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Council of Governments to upgrade the NS rail line to accommodate double-stack trains. Previously, containers only could be single-stacked on trains moving over the connector.

The project included raising clearances at five locations along the 124-mile route between Cincinnati and Columbus and adding tracks at Norfolk Southern’s Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal near Columbus. Prior to the upgrades, double-stack intermodal trains leaving the Port of Virginia for Cincinnati and Detroit followed longer routes through Tennessee or Pennsylvania. Now, double-stack trains bound for Detroit use a route that is 212 miles shorter, and trains traveling to Cincinnati travel 69 fewer miles and save up to two days transit time.

Financial support for the $6.1 million project included $3.6 million from the federal government combined with matching contributions from Norfolk Southern and the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Council of Governments.

“The Rail Commission is very happy to have been able to facilitate this very important infrastructure project that builds on previous investments and further solidifies Ohio’s position in the global supply chain,” said Matthew Dietrich, executive director of the Ohio Rail Development Commission.

“Routing trains over the Heartland Connector improves transit times and allows Norfolk Southern to provide more reliable service and handle additional intermodal freight,” said Jeff Heller, NS group vice president international intermodal marketing. “The Heartland Connector is significant for the Port of Virginia because it increases the efficiency of the Heartland Corridor to move goods to and from Ohio and other Midwest consumer markets and adds to the competitiveness of the Hampton Roads region.”

Norfolk Southern’s Heartland Corridor is the shortest, fastest double-stack route from the Port of Virginia to the Midwest. A single NS intermodal train takes up to 300 trucks off America's highways, reducing traffic congestion and repair costs. In addition, rail transportation is nearly four times more fuel efficient than trucking, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

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Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Customers) Chris Luebbers, 757-823-5279 (chris.luebbers@nscorp.com)
(Media) David Pidgeon, 717-541-2247 (david.pidgeon@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

Who says CSX isn't interesting???!!!

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

Been working the past week on CSX between Cleveland, OH and Buffalo, NY and will be between Hamburg and Rochester this next week on the SRS 956. Saw some real interesting trains and locomotives.

The UP 5471 led the Selkirk-North Platte unit Reefer train west at Bergen, NY today...1/20/2012

The CSXT 999 (you could smell the paint!) led an intermodal eastbound at Corfu, NY...1/20/2012

CSXT 8351 - 8040 (TWO Standard cab EMD'S) on an eastbound multilevel train...1/20/2012

Freightliner 70019 was on a QTTX car Westbound thru Cleveland, OH on its way to Philadelphia and a ship to England. 1/19/2012. Seems like a long way to get to Philadelphia....

UP 5471 & train at Bergen, NY

CSXT 999 - 998 at Corfu, NY

CSXT 8351 - 8040 stopped at East Churchville, NY for a stuck brake

Freightliner 70019 at Cleveland, OH



NS's Pier 6 handles largest coal loading in its 50-year history

Received the following via email.

Jan. 13, 2012

Norfolk Southern’s Pier 6 handles largest coal loading in its 50-year history

NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern has loaded the largest volume cargo in the history of its Pier 6 coal transloading facility at Lamberts Point in Norfolk.

Early yesterday morning, Norfolk Southern finished loading 159,941.45 net tons (145,097.931 metric tons) of metallurgical coal into the M/V Cape Dover, destined for China. That quantity can be used to make about 207,000 tons of steel – enough to build 230,000 automobiles. The coal was shipped by Xcoal Energy & Resources in conjunction with CONSOL Energy, from mining operations in Virginia, in 1,561 railroad coal cars. T. Parker Host was the ship agent/broker.

Norfolk Southern employees loaded the 951-foot vessel in fewer than 48 hours in order to accommodate a tight schedule for the receiver. “This is the kind of capacity and service that makes Pier 6 the preeminent coal transloading facility on the East Coast,” said Mark H. Bower, NS group vice president, export, metallurgical, and industrial coal marketing. “Worldwide demand for U.S. coal for utilities and coke plants continues to grow, and the railroad is the reliable and safe link that, with our coal production and sales partners, brings that energy to market around the globe.”

The loading of the M/V Cape Dover eclipsed the former record of 157,645 net tons for the M/V Irongate in 1998 as well as the 155,522 net tons into the M/V Cape Provence in December 2010.

Norfolk Southern has been transferring coal and coke from railroad cars into ocean-going export and domestic vessels in the Lamberts Point area since 1884, when it opened Pier 1. In the first half of the 1900s, new Piers 2-5 featured improvements in speed and capacity and even loaded coal into a number of famous vessels, such as those used in Admiral Byrd's 1933 Antarctica expedition.

Pier 6 opened for business in 1962 as the hemisphere's largest, fastest, and most efficient transloading facility. In 1999, Pier 6 dumped its billionth ton of coal and became the only facility in the world to have reached that milestone.

Most of the coal moving through Pier 6 originates in Southwest Virginia, Southern West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. It is shipped to several dozen countries as well as to coastwise domestic receivers. Pier 6 is situated with access to Hampton Roads' deep 50-foot channel that allows modern vessels to make productive use of their large holds.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

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Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

CSX Offers Rail-Ready Sites for Industrial Development

Received the following via email.

CSX Offers Pre-Certified, Rail-Ready Sites for Fast-Track Industrial Development

JACKSONVILLE, FLA. - January 10, 2012 - CSX has introduced a new program, CSX Select Sites, offering customers an easy way to access certified, rail-ready properties for a variety of industrial uses.

The company invites interested parties to view its new web page with easy-to-use, GIS-enabled search features that show high-resolution views of topography, rail and road layouts, and other significant characteristics of each Select Site parcel. For detailed profiles of CSX Select Site properties, search "Select Sites" at the company's web site at http://www.csx.com/. Or click the "Customers" tab, then "New to CSX or Rail?" followed by "Regional Development."

The CSX Select Site designation indicates "green light" properties along the CSX network where projects can move forward rapidly because all known risk factors have been identified and potential issues resolved.

"Ultimately, these sites will represent many of the best manufacturing properties along CSX's rail network in the eastern U.S.," said Clark Robertson, CSX Assistant Vice President-Regional Development. "The Select Site designation promotes shorter decision timelines, increased speed to market and lower up-front development risk for companies seeking industrial property to place their manufacturing operations.

"All of the data suggest manufacturers prefer certainty in their selection of new plant locations," Robertson said. "We intend to assist communities across the network to identify sites that can provide certainty and compete effectively for these new investments and jobs."

To receive the CSX Select Site designation, the sites - from 100 to 1,000 acres - must meet a rigorous list of key criteria, including infrastructure and utility availability, environmental reviews, appropriate zoning and entitlement, air quality permitting, rail serviceability, proximity to highways or interstates and other attributes. CSX has partnered with The Austin Company, a nationally known site selection and certification consulting firm, to screen candidate sites and assist communities with the application and certification process.

"The web site's simple navigation and stable of pre-qualified rail ready sites make this the new gold standard in certified site programs," said Don Schjeldahl, Vice President of The Austin Company. "The program certifies rail ready and development ready properties of various sizes and features them on a website that is refreshing in its simplicity and a competitive leader in delivering information."

CSX welcomes inquiries about candidate sites from industrial property owners and economic development organizations. Thus far, five sites have been certified and 11 are in the certification process. Click on the "Have a Site?" button on the Select Site homepage to submit your property characteristics and request consideration for the Select Sites program. Designated CSX Select Sites will benefit from increased marketing exposure via the web site, press releases and promotion materials, and direct marketing to site selection professionals.

CSX has previously partnered with McCallum Sweeney Corporation to certify "Mega" sites - properties over 1,000 acres targeted to appeal primarily to automobile manufacturers. To date, CSX has assisted five communities across its network with a Megasite certification. A listing of CSX Certified Megasites can also be found on CSX's website.

About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Follow CSX on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).

Contact:
Gary Sease, Corporate Communications
1-877-TellCSX (877-835-5279)