Three ways to go for a caboose ride at BR&W

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Three ways to ride a caboose at BR&W!

During 2014 we are offering three different ways to experience a caboose ride at Black River & Western! Online reservations are now available for all three of these options through our website and this email! 1: Summer Excursion Caboose Charter: Charter your own private caboose on one of our regularly scheduled Summer Excursion trains. Depart Flemington Station at 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM. Single round-trip $250. Two round-trips $350. Click Here To Get Started 2: Caboose Hope Train: Ride the caboose train from Ringoes to Three Bridges and return. Departs Ringoes Station at 5:30 PM on select Saturdays throughout the summer. Tickets are $15 per passenger over age three. This is not a private caboose reservation. Click Here To Get Started 3: North Pole Express Caboose: Reserve your own private caboose on the regularly scheduled North Pole Express train. Your reservation includes everything you'd expect on the North Pole Express, plus a special gift and your own dedicated elf! Click Here To Get Started Each of these options requires an advance reservation. So read up on the details and book your caboose today!

Summer Caboose Charters Saturday May 24, 2014 to Sunday August 31, 2014 Reserve your own caboose on a regularly scheduled Summer Excursions departing Flemington, NJ! The caboose seats approximately 10 people, plus up to about 8 additional lap-riders. You are welcome to bring food and drinks. Restrooms are not available on board. You will board your caboose at Flemington Station, ride to Ringoes, and return to Flemington, OR if you choose the option of TWO round-trips, you can stick around for another round-trip!

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

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

CSX Safety Train Delivers Enhanced Outreach to First Responders and Communities

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CSX Safety Train Delivers Enhanced Outreach to First Responders and Communities

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - April 24, 2014 - CSX's Safety Train: Energy Preparedness Program, with rolling classrooms and specialized hands-on training, will soon take to the rails on an expanded first responder training initiative. The train will travel over much of the company's crude oil service territory over the next several months.

This CSX Safety Train will begin in mid-May, visiting numerous communities in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. The company's enhanced training program offers fire fighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians and other first responders insights on how rail cars work and how to deal with rail incidents. CSX's first responder training already reaches hundreds of emergency personnel each year.

Upcoming training sessions will include Philadelphia; South Kearny, N.J.; Kingston, Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo and New York, N.Y.; Erie, Pa.; Cleveland and Willard, Ohio; Garrett, Ind.; and Chicago. More details will be provided as the schedule is finalized.

"As the market for shipping crude oil has grown, so has our commitment to and responsibility for moving those shipments safely and efficiently," said Skip Elliott, CSX's vice president-public safety, health and environment. "This year, in light of increased crude oil movements on our network, we have expanded our engagement with first responders and emergency personnel along key routes to include training specific to crude oil movements."

The CSX Safety Train is comprised of a locomotive, four tank cars, one flat car equipped with a variety of tank car valves and fittings, two classroom cars and a caboose. CSX hazardous material specialists will lead training sessions with specific instruction on how crude oil is shipped. The train and instruction will help strengthen CSX's partnership with first responders and provide a higher state of emergency readiness.

"As soon as Delaware County asked CSX to arrange for training in preparation for the upcoming crude oil unit trains, they quickly worked with us and their partners to conduct emergency response training for our first responders," said Edwin J. Truitt, director, Delaware County (Pa.) Department of Emergency Services. "This is what comes from maintaining an effective working relationship with our partners at the railroads."

Increased emergency response training and tuition assistance are part of a voluntary agreement that the nation's railroads reached with the U.S. Department of Transportation earlier this year. As part of this comprehensive agreement, the nation's railroads have lowered maximum authorized speeds for certain trains carrying crude oil in designated cities, increased track inspections on key oil routes, and agreed to implement additional trackside safety technology.

The CSX Safety Train is just one of a number of continuing programs through which CSX offers training and recognition to emergency responders and customers. Just recently, CSX presented its Chemical Safety Excellence Award to more than 70 shippers who had incident-free records in 2013.

Training already reaches hundreds of first responders through the Safety Train, hands-on sessions at training centers operated by CSX and the Association of American Railroads, classroom training at local fire stations, exercises and table-top drills, and thousands more through web-based and self-study courses. In September 2013, nearly 100 crude oil customers were trained by a CSX team.

In addition, CSX continues to deploy special technology to first responders and security officials so that they can track oil and other hazardous materials shipments in virtually real time. The technology is called SecureNOW, and it is now used by 19 of the 23 states in which CSX operates. The technology provides law enforcement and other federal and state public safety officials with access to data on the location of CSX trains and their contents.

Through first responders and law enforcement, communities can also receive detailed reports from CSX that document the volume and specific types of hazardous materials that pass through their locations.

"The development of shale oil represents a tremendous opportunity for our nation to move closer to energy independence, to grow our economy and to create jobs," Elliott added. "Freight rail, with its terrific fuel efficiency and ability to reduce highway congestion and maintenance requirements, has a critical role in this opportunity. But it also comes with great responsibility."

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Carla Groleau
904-359-1708

NS reports first-quarter 2014 results

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April 23, 2014

Norfolk Southern reports first-quarter 2014 results

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern reported first-quarter net income of $368 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, compared with $450 million, or $1.41 per diluted share, earned in the same period of 2013. First-quarter 2013 net income included a $60 million, or $0.19 per diluted share, gain from a land sale.

First-Quarter 2014 Results

§    Railway operating revenues totaled $2.7 billion.

§    Income from railway operations was $667 million.

§    Net income totaled $368 million.

§    Diluted earnings per share of $1.17.

§    The railway operating ratio was 75.2 percent.

“Following the extreme winter weather across the U.S. rail network which impacted first-quarter results, we are seeing a rebound in shipments across all of our business,” said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “Our people responded admirably to meet the challenges of the harsh conditions, and we remain focused on delivering superior service to our customers.”

Railway operating revenues were $2.7 billion, 2 percent lower compared with first-quarter 2013, and shipment volumes decreased 1 percent.

First-Quarter Revenue by Commodity

§        Chemicals, up 12 percent.

§        Intermodal, up 4 percent.

§        Agriculture, even.

§        Metals/Construction, down 1 percent.

§        Paper/Forest, down 3 percent.

§        Automotive, down 7 percent

§        Coal, down 15 percent.

For the first quarter, general merchandise revenues were $1.6 billion, 1 percent higher than the same period last year, despite overall volume declining 1 percent. Increased crude and liquefied petroleum gas shipments were offset by declines in automotive, metals/construction, and paper/forest shipments.

Intermodal revenues improved 4 percent, to $596 million, compared with first-quarter 2013. Growth primarily in domestic business pushed traffic volume up 3 percent in the quarter compared with the same period of 2013.

First-quarter coal revenues were $541 million, 15 percent lower compared with the same quarter of 2013, the result of a 13 percent volume decrease due primarily to lower utility and export shipments. 

Railway operating expenses for the first quarter were $2 billion, 1 percent lower than in the same period of 2013.

Income from railway operations was $667 million, 3 percent lower compared with first-quarter 2013.

The quarterly railway operating ratio, or operating expenses as a percentage of revenue, was 75.2 percent versus 74.8 percent in the same period of 2013.

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

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)

(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

Model Power Closed

Received the following one line announcement from Walthers. 

Effective immediately Model Power is closed. All backorders will be cancelled and all items will be deleted.  

To read more, visit the Model Power website at :  http://www.modelpower.com/

CSX Celebrates Earth Day With Focus on Electronics Recycling

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CSX Celebrates Earth Day With Focus on Electronics Recycling

Jacksonville, Fla. - April 22, 2014 - CSX employees are joining together this month in celebration of Earth Day and CSX's longstanding commitments to sustainability. As part of that commitment, in addition to many Earth Day events throughout its network, this year CSX is bringing special attention to the importance of proper recycling of electronics.

"Sustainability is vital to CSX's long-term prosperity," said Carl Gerhardstein, assistant vice president of health, environment and sustainability. "It is embedded into our business model so we can grow sustainably while also preserving important resources in the communities where we live and work."

During April, CSX is setting up 16 sites for employees to recycle personal and work related electronic items and equipment, such as phones, computers and TVs.  Recycling electronics helps to prevent metals and electronic materials from impacting the environment and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and hazardous waste while conserving energy and natural resources.

The recycling effort is just one example of  how CSX acts on its three core sustainability commitments: reduce the company's environmental footprint, support sustainable development throughout the network, and engage openly on sustainability issues.

In support of these pillars, CSX is celebrating Earth Day in a number of ways across its 23-state network:

- CSX sponsored the Anacostia Watershed Society Earth Day Cleanup in Washington D.C. and Maryland, where over 2,000 volunteers cleaned up 24 locations along the shores of the Anacostia River and tributaries in Prince George's and Montgomery Counties.

- Employees are participating in cleanup events in nearly half the states in CSX's network including: Atlanta, Ga.; Avon, Ind.; Baltimore, Md.; Barboursville, W.Va.; Cincinnati, Ohio.; Chambersburg, Pa.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Nashville, Tenn.; Richmond, Va.; Riverdale, Ill.; Selkirk, N.Y.; South Charleston, W.Va.; Tampa, Fla.; Toledo, Ohio; and Waycross, Ga.

- This year, CSX again sponsored the City of Jacksonville's Earth Day Poster Contest to help raise environmental awareness among students. Children grades K-12 created posters that reflect the contest's theme: "Nature's Calling - Are You Listening?" CSX also sponsored the Jacksonville Ecology Fair, which featured educational displays, live entertainment and giveaways while reminding participants about the importance of protecting and preserving the environment.

Throughout the year, CSX partners with organizations such as The Conservation Fund, The Nature Conservancy and the Alliance for Community Trees to protect and improve the country's natural resources.

CSX continues to invest in innovative technologies and initiatives to further its sustainability goals.  CSX has improved its fuel efficiency by 100 percent since 1980 and the company continues to make progress on its voluntary goal to further reduce GHG emissions intensity by 6 to 8 percent by 2020.

In 2013, CSX was recognized on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, CDP's Global 500 Performance Leadership Index and the S&P 500 Performance Leadership Index for its leadership in environmental performance.

For more information on CSX's commitment to environmental sustainability or to learn how to get involved in local Earth Day activities, visit: www.csx.com or www.beyondourrails.com.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Kristin Seay
904-359-3442

NS declares quarterly dividend

Received the following via email.

April 22, 2014

Norfolk Southern declares quarterly dividend

NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation today announced the regular quarterly dividend of 54 cents per share on its common stock, payable on June 10, to stockholders of record on May 2.

Since its inception in 1982, Norfolk Southern has paid dividends on its common stock for 127 consecutive quarters.

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

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)

(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

'Quiet Zone' Railroad Crossing Project Underway in Montgomery

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Location is Montgomery Township, Somerset County, New Jersey.


News from the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders

April 16, 2014

County Route 601 Quiet Zone Railroad Project Underway in Montgomery

MONTGOMERY – Township residents and commuters who travel County Route 601 will soon see a newly redesigned railroad crossing that will enhance safety and is expected to lead to a “quiet zone” designation that will reduce train-horn noise.

“This project will provide much-needed respite from train noise in a well-populated residential area,” said Somerset County Freeholder Deputy Director Mark Caliguire, a former township mayor.

“Montgomery residents will certainly benefit from this crossing safety improvement in more ways than one,” said Mayor Rich Smith.  “We thank NJDOT and Somerset County for their support, which is making this quiet zone a reality for us.”

The project is intended to improve safety at the crossing by installing a median island on CR 601, which will facilitate the completion of the installation of four quadrant gates at the crossing.  The four quadrant gates will prevent vehicles from entering the crossing after the gates have dropped.  The work is expected to be completed by April 21.

As an added benefit, once the four quadrant gates are active, the crossing likely will meet Federal Rail Administration (FRA) quiet-zone requirements.  Somerset County then can apply for a quiet zone at this crossing to reduce the noise associated with train horns.

By increasing the safety at the crossing to the levels approved by the FRA, the train operator will be instructed to sound the horn only in an emergency, and not every time a train approaches the crossing, as happens currently.

The total project cost is $194,000, with $160,000 coming from an NJDOT Rail grant.

 

2014 Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders
Patrick Scaglione, Freeholder Director Ÿ Mark Caliguire, Freeholder Deputy Director
Peter S. Palmer, Freeholder Ÿ Robert Zaborowski, Freeholder Ÿ Patricia L. Walsh, Freeholder

CSX Announces First-Quarter Earnings and Dividend Increase

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CSX Corporation Announces First-Quarter Earnings and Dividend Increase

Highlights:
- First-quarter earnings per share of $0.40
- CSX continues to expect modest full-year earnings growth
- Merchandise and intermodal show continued strength, and the utility coal environment is improving
- Quarterly dividend increases 7 percent beginning in second quarter to $0.16 per share

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - April 15, 2014 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced first-quarter net earnings of $398 million, or $0.40 per share, down from $462 million, or $0.45 per share in the same quarter of 2013.

For the quarter, revenue grew 2 percent to $3.0 billion on volume increases of 3 percent, with strength in intermodal and merchandise markets more than offsetting declines in coal. However, operating income declined 16 percent to $739 million and the operating ratio increased 520 basis points to 75.5 percent, primarily due to the impact of harsh weather. CSX estimates that weather-related disruptions increased expenses by approximately six cents per share, and impacted revenue contribution by about two to three cents.

"The company is indebted to the dedicated men and women of CSX who worked tirelessly through one of the worst winters on record to keep the network running as fluidly as possible," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Thanks to the hard work of our employees, service levels are gradually recovering, and we are capitalizing on an economy that continues to show positive momentum."

Looking forward, CSX expects modest full-year earnings growth for 2014 on the strength of broad-based merchandise and intermodal gains and an improving domestic coal environment.  In addition, the company remains confident in its ability to sustain double-digit earnings growth and margin expansion for its shareholders in 2015 and beyond. The company expects to sustain a mid-60s operating ratio longer-term.

CSX also announced that its Board of Directors approved a 7 percent increase in the company's quarterly dividend to $0.16 per share, payable on June 13, 2014 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 28, 2014. This announcement builds on 11 increases over the past 8 years, representing a 20 percent compound annual growth rate during that time.  It is consistent with CSX's view of the strength of the business and the company's approach to deploying cash within a balanced framework to support long-term value creation through investment, dividends, and share buybacks.

CSX executives will conduct a quarterly earnings conference call with the investment community on April 16, 2014, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time. Investors, media and the public may listen to the conference call by dialing 1-888-EARN-CSX (888-327-6279) 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.

This earnings announcement, as well as additional 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, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products.  For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development.  Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides.  It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike.  More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

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, margins, 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.

Contacts:
David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812

Melanie Cost, Corporate Communications
904-359-1702

CSX Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of its Partnership with Minority-Owned Banks

Received the following via email.

CSX Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of its Partnership with Minority-Owned
Banks

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - April 9, 2014 - CSX (NYSE: CSX) today renewed its partnership with a syndication of minority-owned banks led by Citizens Trust Bank of Atlanta (CTB). The agreement marks the tenth anniversary of the relationship, part of the CSX commitment to working closely with businesses in the communities it serves.

"At CSX, we recognize and applaud the role of local entrepreneurs in promoting the health of our nation's economy and growing jobs in their communities," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer, CSX. "We are proud to continue this decade-long partnership with the Citizens Trust Bank of Atlanta and its syndication, a prime example of a partnership helping make the diverse communities where we live and work more sustainable and prosperous."

Along with Citizens Trust Bank, the syndication includes Seaway Bank and Trust Company, City National Bank of New Jersey, Commonwealth National Bank, Mechanics and Farmers Bank, United Bank of Philadelphia, and Citizens Savings Bank & Trust Company.

"A collaborative partnership such as our lasting relationship with CSX helps to establish and achieve common goals," said Cynthia N. Day, president and chief executive officer, Citizens Trust Bank. "This kind of insightful approach allows the promise to sustain the growth of the community, to continue to deepen existing relationships and attract future generations of banking customers."

CSX's commitment to promoting small businesses is also reflected across its supply chain through its minority supplier development program, which actively seeks to establish relationships with minority-owned businesses. In 2013, CSX was recognized as one of DiversityInc's Top 25 Noteworthy Companies, for its commitment to diversity throughout the company's operations.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products.  For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development.  Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides.  It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike.  More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

About Citizens Trust Bank
Citizens Bancshares Corporation is the parent holding company of Citizens Trust Bank that provides a full range of commercial and personal banking product and financial solutions.  For over 90 years, Citizens Trust Bank is committed to enabling their customers and the community to realize dreams of economic empowerment.  The Bank has remained dedicated to the growth and development of communities through its commitment to excellence.  Citizens Trust Bank has financial centers throughout metropolitan Atlanta and Columbus, Georgia, and in Birmingham and Eutaw, Alabama. Through its parent company, Citizens Bancshares Corporation, its common stock is offered over-the-counter to the general public under the trading symbol CZBS. For more information please visit Citizens Trust Bank on the web at www.ctbconnect.com. Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ctbstrong) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/ctbank). Citizens Trust Bank - A relationship you can bank on.

Contact:
Melanie Cost
904-359-1702

NS's N&W heritage unit 8103 is number five!

(Train sightings on 4-5-14.)

Thanks to the Internet I learned that NS's heritage unit N&W would be leading 20R (Chicago-Calumet, IL to E-Rail, NJ) Intermodal on only its second trip into NJ on Saturday morning. Even the weather was cooperating by providing partly cloudy skies. Back in October, 2013 it had some internal problems as a result of a mishap in Pennsylvania. In April the repairs were completed and it was placed in service on an NS ethanol train 64K into NJ and returned on a 65K. A quick turn around found it leading 20R for its next assignment with the railfan community trackside ready to record its return! The first image sees 20R heading east on the LEHL at MP 68.8 in Bloomsbury (NJ).    

The dispatcher instructed 20R to hold the siding at CP 67 for westbound 11J. Once that train passed, 20R would continue its trip east to E-Rail.  That temporary stop would also allow me time to get 20R as it crossed over the Raritan River and Cramers Creek dual truss bridges west of the Hamden Road grade crossing in Hunterdon County (LEHL MP 57). Snapping that image enabled me to capture my fifth heritage unit with only fifteen more to go! 

NS announces 2014 schedule of 21st Century Steam excursions

Received the following via email.

April 4, 2014

Norfolk Southern announces 2014 schedule of 21^st Century Steam excursions

NORFOLK, VA. – A new season of “21^st Century Steam” train excursions has launched, with Norfolk Southern Corporation and partners Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society scheduling 18 excursions in seven states from April through July.

Tickets for the trains listed below are available through the websites of TVRM (www.tvrail.com) and FWRHS (www.fortwaynerailroad.org). Some trains are Norfolk Southern employee specials as noted on the schedule and are not available to the general public. All excursions are round trip.

Here is the schedule through July 13.

Date/Train Name/Other info	Origin – Turn Point/Destination	Locomotive	Operator
April 5 Radford Rambler	Bristol – Radford, Va.	SOU 630	TVRM
April 6  Lonesome Pine Limited	Bristol – Bulls Gap, TN	SOU 630	TVRM
April 12, 13, & 19 The Tri-County Mountaineer	Grundy, Va. – Devon, W.Va.	SOU 630	TVRM
May 3 & 4 The Commodore Vanderbilt Norfolk Southern Employee Special	Elkhart, Ind. – Bryan, Ohio	NKP 765	FWRHS
May 10 & 11 The Nickel Plate Limited Norfolk Southern Employee Special	Chicago, Ill. – Argos, Ind.	NKP 765	FWRHS
May 17 & 18 The New Royal Palm	Cincinnati, Ohio – Danville, Ky.	SOU 630	TVRM
May 31 &  June 1 Lexington Limited	Lexington, Ky. – Oneida, Tenn.	SOU 630	TVRM
June 7 Steam Anniversary Special	Chattanooga, Tenn. – Oneida, Tenn.	SOU 630	TVRM
July 5 & 6 The Mercury Express Norfolk Southern Employee Special	Detroit, Mich. – Toledo, Ohio	NKP 765	FWRHS
July 12 & 13 Detroit Arrow Tickets available April 16	Detroit, Mich. – Fort Wayne, Ind.	NKP 765	FWRHS

Southern Railway No. 630 was built in 1904 by American Locomotive Company at Richmond, Va., and has been a mainstay of 21^st Century Steam excursions after having been rebuilt in TVRM’s Chattanooga shops. Nickel Plate Road No. 765 was built in 1944 by Lima Locomotive Works at Lima, Ohio, and is familiar to many railroaders, having been in excursion service on and off since 1979.

On June 7, TVRM will operate the Steam Anniversary Special in recognition of the 50^th anniversary of the 1964 train from Stearns, Ky., to Chattanooga that led to Southern Railway’s launch of a steam excursion program the same year. The June 6, 1964, train was powered by Southern Railway Locomotive 4501, which now is being rebuilt at TVRM’s Chattanooga shops. Southern’s excursion program operated from 1964 to 1994. In 2010, Norfolk Southern and TVRM announced plans to launch “21^st Century Steam” to highlight milestones in rail history and provide opportunities for audiences to learn about today’s safe and service-oriented freight railroads. The inaugural excursions took place during Labor Day weekend 2011, powered by the 630.

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

###

Norfolk Southern contacts:

(Media) Rick Harris, 757-629-2710 (rick.harris@nscorp.com)

(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)

TVRM contact:

Steve Freer, 423-331-4501 (sfreer@tvrail.com)

FWRHS contact:

Kelly Lynch, 260-493-2766 (lynch@fwrhs.org)

NS QUARTERLY EARNINGS CONFERENCE CALL

Received the following via email. 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN QUARTERLY EARNINGS CONFERENCE CALL

  

We cordially invite you to join us on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at 8:45 a.m. EDT to review our first-quarter 2014 results.  We will issue earnings results at 8 a.m. EDT on April 23.

For those interested in participating, we will broadcast via teleconference that will be available by dialing 877-869-3847 several minutes prior to the start of the call.  At the conclusion, you may listen to an audio replay, which will be available until April 30, 2014.  The replay number is 877-660-6853 and access code 13579367.

In conjunction with the call, a live webcast will be accessible and presentation materials will be posted on the company's web site at www.nscorp.com under the Investors section.  Following the earnings call, an Internet replay of the presentation will be archived on the company’s web site.  In addition, the replay will be available for download to a portable audio player or computer as a MP3 - or podcast - file. Both the replay and MP3 file can be found at www.nscorp.com in the Investors section.

For electronic notification of future earnings events, we invite you to subscribe to NSInvest, Norfolk Southern’s e-mail distribution list for news releases on earnings and issues pertaining to the financial performance of Norfolk Southern. To subscribe, please follow directions on our website under the Investors section.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Hostutler

Director Investor Relations

Norfolk Southern Corporation

CSX - State-of-the-Art Terminal Begins Operations in Winter Haven

Received the following via email.

State-of-the-Art Terminal Begins Operations in Winter Haven

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. - April 2, 2014 - Evansville Western Railway, an affiliate of CSX, today announced the start of operations at the state-of-the-art intermodal terminal located just off State Road 60. Known as the Central Florida Intermodal Logistics Center (ILC), this facility serves as a centralized hub for transportation, logistics and distribution serving Orlando, Tampa and South Florida.

The 318-acre intermodal terminal is surrounded by 930 acres that is planned for development of up to 7.9 million square feet of warehouse distribution centers, light industrial and office facilities. The terminal features five 3,000-foot loading tracks and two 10,000-foot arrival and departure tracks. It's estimated the terminal will process up to 300,000 containers a year.

"The Central Florida ILC will add yet another transportation and logistics capability in a state that's already known for excellent ports, great highways, and extensive railroad connectivity," said Clarence Gooden, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at CSX. "The terminal will provide an anchor for economic development in the region and position Florida for future growth while reducing congestion on the highways."

While Evansville Western Railway owns the facility, the terminal is operated by CSX Intermodal Terminals, Inc. with rail service provided by CSX Transportation (CSXT). Containerized freight previously handled at CSX's intermodal terminal in Orlando is immediately being shifted to Winter Haven. CSX will serve the region's intermodal market from the new Central Florida ILC and close its Orlando intermodal terminal. CSXT's Taft yard in Orlando will continue to serve other rail freight needs.

The terminal incorporates cutting-edge technology that is efficient, innovative and environmentally friendly. Several of its green technology initiatives include:
- three high-powered electric cranes that minimize noise and emissions;
- solar panels on each building which provide alternative and renewable energy sources;
- high mast exterior lighting using LED (light emitting diodes) to reduce energy consumption and light pollution;
- silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for its administration buildings.

"This is one of the most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in the country," said Tony Reck, Chairman and CEO of Evansville Western Railway. "The ripple effect of this terminal's operations will be felt statewide and beyond - ultimately setting the stage for future growth in the region. Without the tremendous support and visionary leadership of Winter Haven and state officials, none of this would have been possible."

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Kristin Seay
904-359-3442

CSX Announces Winners of 2013 Chemical Safety Excellence Awards

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CSX Announces Winners of 2013 Chemical Safety Excellence Awards

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - April 2, 2014 - CSX today announced the winners of its 20th annual Chemical Safety Excellence Award, representing dozens of customers recognized by CSX for their commitment to safe transportation of hazardous materials by rail.

More than half of the 2013 recipients are repeat winners, demonstrating their lasting partnerships with CSX and continued dedication to safety by shipping via rail.

"This year's award winners share in CSX's dedication to the safe and secure transportation of chemical products," said Michael J. Ward, CSX's chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Safety is a core value at CSX, and we are immensely proud to partner with this year's winners to uphold the highest standards in chemical safety."

Ward and other CSX leaders, joined by Edward R. Hamberger, president and chief executive officer of the Association of American Railroads, recognized the award winners at Washington, D.C.'s historic Union Station. Ward and other speakers thanked the customers for their safety efforts and business, and provided updates on industry trends, challenges and opportunities.

The Chemical Safety Excellence Awards are presented to customers who ship more than 600 carloads of hazardous materials during the year without a release due to factors such as not securing valves or closures properly. CSX and its customers work together to ensure that hazardous materials move in the safest equipment and employees are trained on safe loading and handling procedures.

Recipients represent a variety of industries such as energy, technology and agriculture. The 2013 winners include Air Liquide America Corporation; AkzoNobel, Inc.; Archer Daniels Midland Company; Arizona Chemical Company; Arkema, Inc.; Ascend Performance Materials, Inc.; Ashta Chemicals; Aux Sable Liquid Products, LP; Axiall Corporation; BASF Corporation; Bunge Corporation; Cardinal Ethanol, LLC; Cargill; Celanese Corporation; Centennial Energy, LLC; Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LLC; Chevron Products Company; CHS, Inc.; Cornerstone Chemical Company; DAK Americas; Dow Corning Corporation; E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Company; Eastman Chemical Company; EPIC; ERCO Worldwide; Evonik Corporation; ExxonMobil; Heritage Environmental Services, LLC; Hess Corporation; High Sierra Crude Oil & Marketing; Honeywell International, Inc.; Horsehead Corporation; Husky Marketing & Supply Company; International Chemical Company; Invista; Irving Oil; Kemira Water Solutions; Keyera Partnership; Lanxess Corporation; Linde, Inc.; Lyondell; MarkWest Hydrocarbon; Mercuria Energy Group, Ltd.; Methanex Corporation; MHF Services; Moose Jaw Asphalt, Inc.; The Mosaic Company; Musket Corporation; NGL Supply Company, LTD; Norflaco Sales, Inc.; Nucor Corporation; Occidental Chemical Corporation; Olin ChlorAlkali; Oxbow Sulphur, Inc.; PBF Energy Company; Philadelphia Energy Solutions; Plains All American Pipeline; POET Biorefining; PVS Chemicals, Inc.; Reagent Chemical; Sabic Americas, Inc.; Shintech; Southern States Chemical, Inc.; Statoil North America; Styrolution America, LLC; Taminco U.S., Inc.; Targa Resources, Inc.; U.S. Government; United Refining Company; Valero; and Westlake Chemical.

For more than 20 years, CSX has recognized customers who lead the industry in chemical safety. More information on the award, along with a list of recent recipients, can be found online at http://www.csx.com/index.cfm/customers/safety-security/chemical-safety-excellence-award/.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Carla Groleau
(904) 359-1708

CSX 2013 Annual Report Highlights Industry-Leading Safety, Highest-Ever Customer Satisfaction and Record Financial Performance

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CSX 2013 Annual Report Highlights Industry-Leading Safety, Highest-Ever Customer Satisfaction and Record Financial Performance

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - March 31, 2014 - CSX (NYSE: CSX) is in the midst of an "exciting and transformative time," leveraging the most diverse portfolio in company history, wrote Michael Ward, CSX chairman, president and chief executive officer, in the company's 2013 Annual Report delivered this past week.

"The CSX you see today has overcome a challenging macroeconomic environment while transforming itself to leverage the growth opportunities that exist in nearly all of its businesses," Ward wrote. "Today, CSX is a vibrant, healthy company that is meeting an essential need for the country and driving service excellence for our customers while investing in our infrastructure, employees and the communities that we serve."

A combination of macro forces and strategic investments propelled CSX to strong performance despite the challenging external environment, including the slowly recovering economy and transformation in the energy markets. The company now enjoys the most diverse portfolio in its history, as growth in the merchandise and intermodal businesses help to offset declining coal revenue.

The company's Annual Report outlines actions to further capitalize on growth opportunities and meet strategic challenges, including:

- Investing to support changes in energy markets, which are creating new opportunities for job growth, manufacturing resurgence and energy independence;
- Ongoing investment in double-stack intermodal capabilities through the National Gateway and new or expanded regional terminals;
- Continued pursuit of record customer satisfaction through improved communication and collaboration;
- Consistently strong safety performance, building on CSX's performance as the nation's safest Class I railroad in 2013, with the fewest accidents and injuries; and
- Focus on improving the company's environmental footprint, increasing sustainable development activities and amplifying engagement with local communities.

CSX continues to place a high priority on investing in critically needed transportation infrastructure while rewarding investors through dividends and share repurchases. In 2013, the company invested $2.3 billion in the network and will invest another $2.3 billion in 2014 to support long-term value creation for shareholders. The company is also focused on returning value to shareholders in the near term. In 2013, CSX paid dividends of 59 cents per share, up nine percent from the year before, and announced a new $1 billion share buyback program.

These value-creating activities build on a sustained track record of delivering shareholder returns. Over the past decade, CSX increased operating income by nearly 600 percent and improved operating ratio by more than 2,200 basis points, while driving growth in earnings per share from continuing operations of nearly 2,000 percent. As a result, CSX shareholders have seen a total return on their investment of nearly 500 percent, easily outpacing the broader market.

As the coal headwinds subside, investments in intermodal and other markets take hold, and operations build on past success to drive efficiency and improving returns, CSX expects to generate double-digit earnings per share growth for its shareholders on a sustainable basis. In addition, the company continues to focus on achieving a mid-60s operating ratio long-term.

Full text of the CSX 2013 Annual Report, including Ward's letter to shareholders, can be found at http://investors.csx.com.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Melanie Cost
904-359-1702