NS declares quarterly dividend

Received the following via email. 

Norfolk Southern declares quarterly dividend

NORFOLK, Va., July 24, 2015 – Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) today announced the regular quarterly dividend of 59 cents per share on its common stock, payable on Sept. 10 to stockholders of record on Aug. 7.

Since its inception in 1982, Norfolk Southern has paid dividends on its common stock for 132 consecutive quarters.

About Norfolk Southern

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.

Media Inquiries:

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

Investor Inquiries:

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

http://www.norfolksouthern.com

Papal Visit 2015. Increased Amtrak service and important travel information

Received the following via email.  

All Philadelphia-bound Amtrak trains require reservations September 25 – 28 

PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP »

Book your travel to Philadelphia now to ensure your reservation Pope Francis will visit Philadelphia in September, marking his first-ever visit to the United States, and the city is bracing for more than 1.5 million visitors for the weekend of September 26 – 27. In addition to adding trains to help travelers get around during Pope Francis' visit, Amtrak® is working with city officials to ensure a safe and memorable weekend. You can visit us here to learn more about the special procedures that will be implemented to help ensure public safety and aid in crowd control during the Papal Visit. Since all Amtrak trains will require reservations starting Friday, September 25, through Monday, September 28, we are encouraging passengers to book tickets now in order to ensure your reservation. BOOK TODAY

Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad

(Train sightings on 7-23-15.)  

Was in Cooperstown, NY on Wednesday and Thursday (July 22 and 23) and "discovered" that Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley RR had a scheduled 10 AM eight mile excursion to Cooperstown from Milford on Thursday. Hope my wife's patience did not wear thin while I attempted to get some photos of the train. The excursion was led by C&CV 3051, a ex-CN unit that was built by Alco Montreal Locomotive Works in 1956. It had been in service for Atlas Specialty Steel in Welland, Ontario when purchased by Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society. In this train's consist was three passenger coaches, a converted Delaware & Hudson (D&H) gondola that passengers could ride in and a D&H bay window caboose. I also had the opportunity to photograph freshly painted CN 8223 and D&H 30021, a 160 ton work crane that is still functional. The first two images show the excursion departing from Milford station for its run towards Cooperstown. C&CV's Marcie Schwartzman is flagging the East Main Street crossing. Photographing C&CV's operations was definitely more enjoyable that having to deal with the crowds for baseball's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies in Cooperstown! 

CSX and The Conservation Fund support producers and distributors of local, fresh foods in underserved communities

Received the following via email.  

Grants Available to Improve Healthy Food Transportation and Access in 22 States

CSX and The Conservation Fund support producers and distributors of local, fresh foods in underserved communities

ARLINGTON, Va.  - July 23, 2015 - Applications are now being accepted for the 2015 Grant Program for Transporting Healthy Food, presented in partnership by CSX and The Conservation Fund.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture more than 23 million Americans have limited or no access to fresh and healthy food. Many producers and retailers lack the resources and equipment needed to sustain food quality and safety as they sell, store, package and distribute fresh produce and others food to the surrounding communities they serve.

Now in its second year, the Grant Program for Transporting Healthy Food is designed to support and strengthen local transportation and distribution infrastructure for healthy food to communities in need. The program enhances delivery capabilities of producers and distributors and improves the availability of healthy food for nearby consumers. In 2014, the recipient organizations used the grants to purchase refrigeration and delivery trucks, acquire portable food chests and expand local food supply and capacity to provide nearly 118 million pounds of nutritious food to approximately six million people annually.

In 2015, grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 will be made available to charitable entities that distribute fresh produce and perishable food in 22 states where CSX operates-Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

The grants can support a range of activities related to transportation, including:

. acquiring refrigerated vehicles for direct delivery to markets, food hubs or distribution center;

. financing mobile market trucks and food stands to bring fresh food to isolated communities;

. improving on-site and mobile processing and storage-flash, freezing, drying or refrigeration-of meats and  seafood needed for distribution; and

. purchasing produce boxes and cold storage bins to keep unsold food fresh for the next day's farmers market or wholesale purchase.

As one of the nation's premier transportation companies, with an important role in transporting agricultural, food and food-service products, CSX recognized the integral role that distribution plays in supporting access to fresh food.

"CSX aims to make an impact Beyond Our Rails-and one of our largest focus areas is creating access to healthy lifestyles, including food, in the communities where we operate and live," said Tori Kaplan, assistant vice president, corporate social responsibility. "It's our job to make connections across our 21,000 mile rail network every day, and we're proud to continue working with The Conservation Fund to support local connections between communities and healthy, fresh food."

"Local and regional food organizations are unsung heroes working tirelessly to make healthy, fresh food a convenient, practical and affordable option for everyone, particularly children and other vulnerable populations, and they deserve recognition and support for the important role they play in their communities," said Kris Hoellen, Vice President of Sustainable Programs at the Conservation Fund. "With CSX's partnership, we're not only helping these groups expand their food network, but we're also supporting our local farmers and working farms-improving the entire food chain from the field to the fork."

Grant applications are due by September 18, 2015. To download a grant application and see more information about the program, please visit http://www.conservationfund.org/partner-with-us/business/csx or contact Margarita Carey at mcarey@conservationfund.org.

CSX has long been a supporter of The Conservation Fund's work. CSX has helped restore critical habitats at two national wildlife refuges through the donation of more than 13,000 trees and is helping reconnect children and nature with the creation of a school curriculum unit. CSX is also entering into its second year of working with The Conservation Fund on an ongoing program that is improving access to and the supply of healthy food at local farmers markets in underserved counties in West Virginia.

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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike.  More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX). 

About The Conservation Fund

At The Conservation Fund, we believe that conservation should work for America. By creating solutions that make environmental and economic sense, we are re-defining conservation to demonstrate its essential role in our future prosperity. Top-ranked for efficiency and effectiveness, we have worked in all 50 states since 1985 to protect more than 7.5 million acres of land.  www.conservationfund.org

Contacts:

Kaitlyn Barrett

CSX Corporate Communications

904-359-1037

kaitlyn_barrett@csx.com

Ann Simonelli

The Conservation Fund

703-908-5809

asimonelli@conservationfund.org

 Joan Snyder

Manager-Web Communications

Visit us at www.CSX.com

CSX, Capital Trees and the City of Richmond Partner to Create the Low Line, a 5.5 Acre Environmental and Beautification Project Along the Virginia Capital Trail

Received the following via email.  

CSX, Capital Trees and the City of Richmond Partner to Create the Low Line, a 5.5 Acre Environmental and Beautification Project Along the Virginia Capital Trail

RICHMOND, Va. (July 22, 2015)  - CSX, Capital Trees, and the City of Richmond have signed agreements to begin the creation of the Low Line, a 5.5 acre environmental and beautification project along Dock Street adjacent to the Virginia Capital Trail, on the historic James River and Kanawha Canal. CSX, which owns the rail trestle that runs along the planned beautification area into downtown Richmond, is donating $100,000 to support the project.

"Rarely does an opportunity to do something so transformative present itself," said Jeanette McKittrick, chairman of Capital Trees' board of trustees. "The Low Line is the uncommon event where the necessary elements of timing, circumstance, will, and ability come together to recast a place of great historic, environmental, cultural and economic interest. It is Capital Trees' vision to help Richmond live up to its stunningly beautiful natural gifts, to work harder to protect the James River, and to work harder, think harder, about landscapes and streetscapes. We're very grateful that CSX and the City of Richmond have the vision to see the importance of this project and have joined in as true collaborators."

Mayor Dwight C. Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "I am pleased that this partnership will enhance the beauty of the City's riverfront as well as the Virginia Capital Trail.  Creative partnerships among the City, corporate partners like CSX, and volunteer non-profits like Capital Trees are taking the Richmond resurgence to the next level."

Project plans for the Low Line include enhancing the area between the Capital Trail and CSX's rail trestles along the James River and Kanawha Canal, removing invasive weeds and creating an attractive landscape with primarily native trees, shrubs and perennials, along with storm water mitigation amenities, educational signage and space for interpretive public art.  The Low Line takes creative inspiration from the High Line, an elevated unused CSX railway viaduct running through Manhattan that was transformed into a beautiful urban garden.

The Low Line concept is the creation of Capital Trees, which is responsible for the project's design, funding and execution. Site preparation is underway and partial completion is expected prior to the UCI World Championships in September. In addition to the CSX and City of Richmond donations, the project has attracted significant support from The Cabell Foundation, the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation, the Roller-Bottimore Foundation, the Rock Foundation, the Garden Club of Virginia, and individual donors.

"CSX aims to be a positive influence on the communities where we live and work, especially in the areas of environmental sustainability and preservation," said Bryan Rhode, regional vice president - state government affairs in Virginia. "Richmond is a key part of our company's history and our business today - including the nexus of three transportation networks, important rail and transfer facilities, and critical access to the Port of Virginia - so we're proud to be able to support the exciting Low Line initiative."

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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike.  More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com.

About Capital Trees

Capital Trees is a non-profit environmental organization whose mission is to enhance and restore the urban landscape and public spaces in the Richmond community. We envision a greener, more beautiful Richmond through the thoughtful planning and planting of trees and public gardens, mindful of the city's extraordinary heritage and location on the banks of the James River. Visit us online at http://capitaltrees.org.

Contacts:

Tammy Hawley

City of Richmond    

804-646-3110

Tammy.Hawley2@richmondgov.com

Jeanette McKittrick

Capital Trees

804-370-1610

Jeanette@capitaltrees.org

Kaitlyn Barrett

CSX

904-359-1037

kaitlyn_barrett@csx.com

CSX CFO Fredrik Eliasson Urges STB to Promote Investment in Our Nation's Freight Rail Network

Received the following via email.  

Promote Investment in Our Nation's Freight Rail Network, CSX CFO Fredrik Eliasson Urges STB

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 22, 2015 - Railroads that are revenue adequate and earn their cost of capital should not be punished by capping their shipping rates, which would discourage the substantial and mostly private investment in the nation's critical rail transportation infrastructure, Fredrik Eliasson, CSX executive vice president and chief financial officer, told the Surface Transportation Board.

"Revenue adequacy should be a benchmark of railroad health, and not a tool for re-regulation," Eliasson said. "To apply revenue adequacy to companies in competitive markets as a rationale to cap rates is to diminish incentives to aspire to innovation, efficiency and quality service. Railroads today are healthier and benefits are flowing to customers, shareholders, employees and the communities we serve. Let's keep it that way."

Eliasson urged the Board to promote re-investment in locomotives, freight cars, terminals, and tracks, and to make railroads more attractive to shareholders, who own the publicly traded companies and invest in them with the expectation of a competitive return.

The Staggers Act that partially deregulated railroads in 1980 balanced regulation and free market incentives, which gave U.S. railroads the ability to re-invest and today are "the envy of the world." At the same time, shipping rates on an inflation-adjusted basis declined. That makes rail attractive to customers and policy makers, who see public benefits in converting freight from congested highways to fuel-efficient rail.

The STB evaluates each railroad's revenue adequacy, or its ability to earn a return equal to the industry's average cost of capital. Eliasson urged commissioners to consider four pillars of any revenue adequacy policy:

* Measure progress, don't constrain it: any regulatory policy that employs revenue adequacy should view it as a barometer of industry health and regulatory policy success - not an arbitrary basis to limit pricing and investment.

* Address replacement cost imperative: value rail assets on the basis of what it would cost to replace them, not their depreciated value. Eliasson cited a Mississippi rail bridge, built in 1967 and valued at $2 million, which cost CSX more than $75 million to replace when destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

* Promote differential pricing: Preserve railroads' ability to price based on the marketplace value of service, which all successful businesses do.

* Ensure free market results to foster re-investment: CSX has devoted an average of 60 percent of its discretionary cash to infrastructure and equipment upgrades over the last 10 years to support freight movement from U.S. manufacturers to consumers here and abroad.

The pillars "form the underpinnings of any successful business," Eliasson said. "Absent any of the four, we cannot be successful. It is our contention that any sound regulatory policy must incorporate these pillars."

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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:

Gary Sease

(904) 359-1719

  

CSX Promotes Safety and Community Service at Brickyard 400

Received the following via email. 

CSX Promotes Safety and Community Service at Brickyard 400

Urges Drivers and Pedestrians to Stay Safe around Railroad Tracks; Partners with FFA to Sponsor "Living to Serve" Car and Share Safety Message

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 21, 2015 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) speeds into the Brickyard 400 as the continued primary sponsor of the No. 34 Play It Safe Ford driven by Brett Moffitt. This continues CSX's ongoing partnership with Front Row Motorsports and NASCAR to emphasize the importance of safety around railroad tracks, through car sponsorship, guest and employee events and social media messages.

CSX urges drivers and pedestrians to follow safety tips around railroad tracks, including:

* Look both ways at rail crossings - trains can come from either direction;

* Never race a train - it can take a train more than a mile to come to a stop;

* Never walk on tracks and avoid wearing headphones around railroad property;

* Never drive around lowered gates; and

* Always expect a train.

"Sunday at the Brickyard, we're going to try to pass as many cars as we can. But I think differently when it comes to driving near railroad tracks - you should always brake for trains," said Moffitt, who took over the No. 34 Play It Safe Ford earlier this season. "NASCAR puts a lot of complicated work into keeping drivers safe in their cars, but we know it only takes some simple rules to stay safe around railroad tracks like never wear headphones around them. Save those for the racetrack."

In addition, CSX and the National FFA Organization will make history as the No. 38 FFA + CSX Living to Serve Ford becomes the first car to represent the 87-year-old agricultural education and youth service organization as a primary sponsor in a NASCAR race. The Sprint Cup Series racecar, driven by Moffitt's Front Row teammate David Gilliland, will feature a blue, gold and white paint scheme with the FFA emblem on the hood.

"Joining together at the Brickyard 400 is a great way to celebrate our partnership with CSX and continue our focus on "living to serve" in the community - especially by sharing the important message of safety first," said Molly Ball, President, National FFA Foundation.

"We're excited to celebrate this event with FFA, a critical partner in connecting CSX to the important agriculture market we serve and helping us give back in our local communities," said David Hall, resident vice president, state and government affairs, CSX. "With more than 610,000 student members, FFA will be helpful advocates to promote the importance of using caution around railroad tracks to a teen audience, one of the most vulnerable age groups for rail-related incidents."

Outside of the race, CSX and FFA have an ongoing "Living to Serve" partnership, focused on community service and leadership development. CSX is one of six Platinum Sponsors for the National FFA Foundation, having contributed more than $1 million annually since 2011.

More information about CSX's national partners and safety messages can be found online at www.beyondourrails.org or by following #localmotive, an ongoing conversation about CSX's presence in the communities it serves through volunteerism, job creation, and moving the goods that are essential for the economy.

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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

About National FFA Organization

The National FFA Organization is a national youth organization of 610,240 student members as part of 7,665 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The National FFA Organization operates under a federal charter granted by the 81st United States Congress and it is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set direction for FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org, on Facebook, Twitter and the official National FFA Organization blog.

About National FFA Foundation

The National FFA Foundation builds partnerships with industry, education, government, other foundations and individuals to secure financial resources that recognize FFA member achievements, develop student leaders and support the future of agricultural education. Governed by a 19-member board of trustees comprised of educators, business leaders, individual donors and FFA alumni, the foundation is a separately-registered nonprofit organization. About 82 percent of every dollar received by the foundation supports FFA members and agricultural education opportunities. For more, visit FFA.org/Give.

Contact:

Kaitlyn Barrett

904-359-1037

P&LE U28Bs on Hoppers on 19th St. NKP in Erie, 11-83

Received the following via email from our correspondent in NW Pennsylvania.  

From the lens of Don Rohauer. Rare view of P&LE power on 19th Street trackage in Erie, PA!  

A westbound empty hopper train is heading down 19th st on the N&W in Erie PA.This train has 2 U28s and an engineer on the rear to expidite the move at Ashtabula to head south on Conrail's Youngstown line.These trains had P&LE crews on them from Buffalo to Youngstown.  11-83 

Tonight - Films About the Steel Industry at the monthly meeting of the Tri-State Chapter NRHS

Received the following via email.

TRI-STATE RAILWAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Presents
Steel: Man's Servant
20 years since the closing of Bethlehem Steel

Thursday, September 10, 2015, 7:00 PM
at the Bickford Theater of the Morris Museum

6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown, NJ 07960

This month we will recognize the 20th Anniversary of the closing of the
massive Bethlehem Steel plant in that Eastern Pennsylvania town that meant
so much to the railroad scene for more than a Century. Long-time member and
film collector Mitch Dakelman will bring an original print of the film
STEEL: MAN'S SERVANT. Produced by US Steel in 1938, Dakelman calls it "the
best film made" about the steel business, and it's in Technicolor. His
collection includes other films produced by USS and Bethlehem that he'll
share with us on this special night of remembrance for the area's largest
rail customer.

Admission is free, open to the public. All are welcome. The meeting will
begin at 7:15 p.m. The programs usually begin about 8:00 p.m. Light
refreshments are often available. We will have a selection of books, videos
and memorabilia for sale before the meeting. Visit us at
facebook.com/tristaterail.org or the web: TRISTATERAIL.ORG

Tickets Now Available For BR&W Christmas Trains!

Received the following via email from The Black River & Western Railroad in Flemington, NJ.  

BR&W Christmas Train Tickets Now Available Use Access Code "50years"

Because of your interest in the BR&W Railroad, we're offering you a chance to purchase tickets for our 2015 Christmas trains before they open to the general public! Tickets go on sale to the general public on August 1, so act now and get tickets before trains start selling out! Use access code "50years" when prompted at checkout to purchase tickets today! Our exciting lineup of 2015 Christmas trains includes returning favorites Candy Cane Limited and North Pole Express, along with our NEW event, the Victorian Christmas Special! All trains depart ONLY from FLEMINGTON STATION. Candy Cane Limited On board the Candy Cane Limited Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their helper will greet all the children, posing for photos upon request. All passengers receive a candy cane, and children receive a small gift from Santa! Perfect for younger children that may be overwhelmed by an extended visit with Santa. This train does not include a stop at Ringoes or the "North Pole". All coaches are heated. Allow approximately 90 minutes for your round-trip. New for 2015: Private caboose charters on the Candy Cane Limited! Click Here For Complete Details North Pole Express - Featuring Steam Locomotive #60 The North Pole Express is a fun-filled journey that is sure to please the entire family! Your train departs Flemington Station for a 25 minute ride to the "North Pole" (at Ringoes). On board the train Santa's Elves will greet all the children and drum up some Christmas spirit! At the North Pole enjoy activities including refreshments, meet Santa, meet Mrs. Claus, face-painting, and a photo op with Santa's sleigh. After your visit at the North Pole, enjoy some more time with the Elves on the way back to Flemington. Allow about two to two and a half hours for your entire experience. New for 2015: Private Club Car charters on the North Pole Express! Click Here For Complete Details NEW FOR 2015! Victorian Christmas Special - Featuring Steam Locomotive #60 BR&W's Victorian Christmas Special features a more traditional faith-based Christmas celebration than our more secular Candy Cane Limited and North Pole Express. This unique event features live performances by Victorian Carolers from Act 1 Productions, a live nativity scene, a visit from Father Christmas, stories of the very first Christmas, and more!  Allow approximately two to two and a half hours for your entire trip. Click Here For Complete Details For complete details on all of our trains and events Visit Our Website

ORDER TICKETS NOW! Use Access Code "50years" when prompted.

Candy Cane Limited - 2015 Saturday November 21, 2015 to Sunday December 20, 2015 Board this train at Flemington Station for a ride to Ringoes and return. On board the train, Santa, Mrs Claus, and their helper will greet all the kids, posing for photos upon request. All passengers receive a candy cane, and kids receive a small gift from Santa! Perfect for younger children that would have trouble waiting in line at the North Pole, or may be overwhelmed by an extended visit with Santa. This train does NOT include at stop at Ringoes or the "North Pole". Coaches are heated.

Candy Cane Limited Caboose Charter - 2015 Saturday November 21, 2015 to Sunday December 20, 2015 Reserve your own private caboose on the Candy Cane Limited! Board this train at Flemington Station for a ride to Ringoes and return. On board the train, Santa, Mrs Claus, and their helper will greet all the kids, posing for photos upon request. All passengers receive a candy cane, and kids receive a small gift from Santa! Perfect for younger children that would have trouble waiting in line at the North Pole, or may be overwhelmed by an extended visit with Santa. This train does not include at stop at Ringoes or the "North Pole". Children in the caboose receive an extra gift! Caboose accommodates up to 16 guests.

North Pole Express - 2015 Saturday November 21, 2015 to Sunday December 20, 2015 The North Pole Express offers an exciting train ride to North Pole Station to visit Santa & Mrs Claus! Enjoy refreshments, singing along with the elves, a chance to tell Santa your Christmas wish, and much more. This is a special experience the entire family won't forget. For complete details on this event please visit our website at www.blackriverrailroad.com.

North Pole Express Club Car Charter - 2015 Saturday November 21, 2015 to Sunday December 20, 2015 Reserve our club car for your group on the North Pole Express! Your private car comes complete with all the normal North Pole Express features, PLUS: your own dedicated elf and an additional gift for the kids. The club car seats a maximum of 35 people. Seating is a mix of bar, booth, and portable chairs. Please contact us at reservations@blackriverrailroad.com with any questions PRIOR to your purchase!

North Pole Express Caboose Charter - 2015 Saturday November 21, 2015 to Sunday December 20, 2015 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 a maximum of 15 people, plus up to 4-5 lap-riding INFANTS. Please contact us at reservations@blackriverrailroad.com with any questions PRIOR to your purchase!

Victorian Christmas Special - 2015 Friday December 4, 2015 New for 2015, BR&W's Victorian Christmas Special features a more traditional faith-based Christmas celebration than our more secular Candy Cane Limited and North Pole Express. This unique event features live performances by Victorian Carolers from Act 1 Productions, a live nativity scene, a visit from Father Christmas, stories of the very first Christmas, and more! Your train departs from Flemington Station. Allow approximately two to two and a half hours for your entire trip. Coaches are heated.

CSX Announces All-Time Record Quarterly Financial Results

Received the following via email.  

CSX Corporation Announces All-Time Record Quarterly Financial Results

Highlights:

. Quarterly operating income more than $1 billion for the first time in company history

. All-time record operating ratio of 66.8 percent

. Improving service measurements and industry-leading safety results

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 14, 2015 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) announced financial results for the second quarter of 2015, including net earnings of $553 million, or an all-time record $0.56 per share, an increase from $529 million, or $0.53 per share, in the second quarter of 2014.

Revenue declined 6 percent, as pricing gains were more than offset by the impact of lower fuel recovery, a 1 percent volume decline and changing business mix. At the same time, continued low fuel prices and savings from efficiency initiatives reduced expenses by 9 percent. As a result, CSX delivered record operating income of more than $1 billion for the quarter and a record-low operating ratio of 66.8 percent.

"While we saw challenges in a number of markets, CSX employees delivered an even safer, more reliable and more differentiated service product this quarter," said Michael J. Ward, chairman and chief executive officer. "We expect the momentum in network performance we saw in the second quarter to accelerate, continuing to create value for our customers and shareholders."

CSX expects to deliver mid-to-high single digit earnings per share growth for 2015, although the upper end of that range has become more challenging given the current energy environment.  With low natural gas prices and high inventory levels continuing to reduce utility coal demand, CSX now expects domestic coal volume to decline by approximately 10 percent for 2015 and the outlook for export coal volume remains approximately 30 million tons for the year. The company also expects meaningful margin expansion as it progresses towards a full-year operating ratio in the mid-60s longer term.

CSX executives will conduct a quarterly earnings conference call with the investment community on July 15, 2015, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 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 through the company's website at http://investors.csx.com and on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About CSX and its Disclosures

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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike.

This announcement, as well as additional financial information, is available on the company's website at http://investors.csx.com. CSX also uses social media channels to communicate information about the company. Although social media channels are not intended to be the primary method of disclosure for material information, it is possible that certain information CSX posts on social media could be deemed to be material.

Therefore, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review the information we post on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and on Slideshare (http://www.slideshare.net/HowTomorrowMoves).  The social media channels used by CSX may be updated from time to time.

More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).

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 c

ompany 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

  

An EMD SD45 Lover's >WORST< Nightmare...

Received the following from our correspondent in NW Pennsylvania. 

SD45 scalps, taken by the fearless-and-feared Ehll-Tee-Eeeeeeh Tribe (LTE) of northeastern Ohio (never to be confused with the other notorious tribe active in the region, closely associated with the Cleveland area). The scalps air-dry on wooden racks erected for the purpose by the tribe's warriors 'pon the quiet, sacred grounds in McDonald Meadow. The defenseless members of the Dubbel-yeuuh Cee Tribe (WC) had nary a chance and were all quickly dispatched, right where they stood on the nearby battlefield (witnesses say there was hardly much of a "battle").  

Dreadful carnage (nine years ago, now) along the right descending bank of the Mahoning River. The grim memory recalled is still enough to make surviving Dubbel-yeuuh Cee  Tribe-members' nostrils flare... 

WC 6600 and siblings - SD45 radiator hoods at LTE by Michael Rujak_8-21-06

Notes:  

Original photo at   http://rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=481864

Larry's Truck and Electric (LTE) of McDonald, Ohio, is a well known scrapper of locomotives.

CSX Highlights 2014 Performance in Annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report

Received the following via email. 

CSX Highlights 2014 Performance in Annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 13, 2015 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today launched the company's fifth annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Moving Forward, highlighting progress in 2014 toward company goals related to business performance, employee empowerment, environmental sustainability and community investment.

"CSX experienced one of the most dynamic years in our nearly 190-year history in 2014, and we have many achievements to celebrate," said Michael J. Ward, chairman and chief executive officer. "Our employees bring Corporate Social Responsibility to life every day by operating responsibly in the communities where we live and work - and we take great pride in that. This report is about our work to meet the needs of our various stakeholders and our plan to continue anticipating the demands of tomorrow."

Highlights for 2014 performance include:

Environmental Sustainability

- Achieved company-record fuel efficiency with the ability to move one ton of freight 483 miles on one gallon of fuel

- Integrated sustainable development practices into the new intermodal terminals in Winter Haven, Florida and Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec

Investing in Communities

- Invested more than $18 million in grants and in-kind donations to nonprofits

- Logged nearly 25,000 employee volunteer hours with service organizations

- Announced 107 projects to build or expand facilities on CSX's network and partners, which are expected to generate nearly 5,800 jobs in local communities

Empowering Employees

- Welcomed 27 percent of new employees with military experience

- Doubled conductor hiring in the second half of 2014

- Completed more than 1.6 million hours of employee training

The Corporate Social Responsibility Report was prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 Sustainability Reporting Guidelines. GRI is a globally-recognized reporting framework for environmental, social and governance performance. The content and direction of the report was informed, in part, by the issues raised in the company's materiality assessment and ongoing engagement with various stakeholders.

The full report is available for download at www.csxcsr.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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike.  More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:

Kaitlyn Barrett

904-359-1037

  

Some Minnesota trains @ Albert Lea

(Train sightings on 7-3-15.)  

The trains I spotted in Albert Lea actually started in the small town of Alden (population: 656) which is thirteen miles west of Albert Lea. As we drove over the Broadway Avenue grade crossing, my wife exclaimed "I see a headlight down the tracks!" Parking the car I looked down the tracks and saw nothing. Perhaps she saw the sunlight reflecting off of something was what caught her eye but now there was nothing. Driving east on I-90, we headed over an overpass that spanned those tracks and what did I see but a CP unit heading back to Albert Lea. Omigosh, my wife did see that diesel's headlight! As CP 4450 slowed down going through town, I was able to get ahead of it for a photo of it passing by the ex-Milwaukee depot in town. Due to this being the July 4th holiday, there wasn't much activity taking place in UP's small yard in town. GMTX 2694 (GP38-2; ex-DRGW 3088) sat idle the whole time we were in town. I will say that the leased GMTX and HLCX units I saw here, in Blue Earth and New Prague were very clean.  

Some Minnesota trains @ Red Wing

(Train sightings on 7-1-15.) 

Just returned from spending a week's vacation with my wife in traveling Minnesota's secondary roads. During the course of our trip, we managed to catch a glimpse of some of that state's varied railroading scene. Our first stop was in Red Wing on July 1st. My wife was checking out the town's tourist information center inside the Amtrak passenger station while I waited outside hoping to see a train or two. After thirty minutes, the Broad Street crossing gates were activated as an eastbound mixed freight approached my location. It is seen passing by the Red Wing Grain Elevator off to the right. A little while later, CP 6096 and DM&E 6091 lead an eastbound mixed freight west past the ADM's processing facility. This plant crushes flax and canola for various uses.That red truck seen on the bridge has just crossed the Mississippi River on the Route 63 Bridge. I was glad that the tourist center had an ample supply of brochures for my wife to look through in order to allow me the time for me to capture these two images. 

CSX Completes Annual Safety and Maintenance Jamboree

Received the following via email. 

CSX Completes Annual Safety and Maintenance Jamboree

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 9, 2015 - This week, CSX successfully completed its 17th annual Maintenance Jamboree, a track safety and maintenance blitz that completes months of rail, tie, signal and bridge work on key rail corridors in a single week.

During this year's Maintenance Jamboree, CSX installed 55,400 cross ties and 217,000 feet of rail, surfaced more than 100 miles of track, and restored and performed maintenance on several bridges and road crossings. This extensive work would normally take about four and a half months to complete during routine train operation.

"The Maintenance Jamboree is a great testament to the dedication of our employees, who pull together to complete the work of many months in just a few short days to reduce the impact on our customers and communities," said Oscar Munoz, president and chief operating officer. "During the Jamboree, and all year long, CSX is committed to investing in our network to provide safe and efficient rail transportation today and serve freight demand in the future." 

The 2015 Maintenance Jamboree, which ran from June 29 to July 6, involved fourteen production teams, as well as engineering, signal and bridge teams. Track work concentrated on two key southeastern corridors: between Shelby, Ky., and Spartanburg, S.C., and between Bostic, N.C., and Monroe, N.C.

CSX has celebrated this annual safety and maintenance blitz since 1999, when a CSX machine operator coined the term "Jamboree" to describe the mass gathering of maintenance-of-way crews and equipment in one area. The Maintenance Jamboree is one example of CSX's commitment to investing in its infrastructure. In 2015, CSX will invest more than $2.5 billion in capital throughout its network.

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 190 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:

Kaitlyn Barrett

(904) 359-1037

CSX Corporation Declares Quarterly Dividend

Received the following via email.  

CSX Corporation Declares Quarterly Dividend

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 8, 2015 - Earlier today, the Board of Directors of CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) approved a $0.18 per share quarterly dividend on the company's common stock. The dividend is payable on September 15, 2015, to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 31, 2015.

About CSX and its Disclosures

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 nearly 190 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 farming towns alike.

This announcement, as well as additional financial information, is available on the company's website at http://investors.csx.com. CSX also uses social media channels to communicate information about the company. Although social media channels are not intended to be the primary method of disclosure for material information, it is possible that certain information CSX posts on social media could be deemed to be material.

Therefore, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review the information we post on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX) and on Slideshare (http://www.slideshare.net/HowTomorrowMoves).  The social media channels used by CSX may be updated from time to time.

More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX).

Contact:

David Baggs, Investor Relations

904-359-4812

Melanie Cost, Corporate Communications

904-359-1702