second quarter 2013 newsletter for alaska railroad ... · pdf filesecond quarter 2013...

ALL ABOARDALL ABOARDSECOND QUARTER 2013 NEWSLETTER FOR ALASKA RAILROAD EMPLOYEES

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CROSSINGS:PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

CROSSINGS:COMPANY

SAFETY AUDIT

CROSSINGS:CFO FINANCIAL

REPORT

CROSSINGS:LEADERSHIP: WHO’S WHO?

MILEPOSTS:SERVICE, SPOTLIGHT & OTHER AWARDS

LANTERN:CONSTRUCTION 90TH ANNIVERSARY

CROSSINGS:PUBLIC RAIL SAFETY

WYE OF IT:GREEN STAR UPDATE

CROSSINGS:BENEFIT NEWS AND TIPS

INSIDE...CROSSINGS: NEWS YOU CAN USE

2-MILE-LONG TRAIN SETS COMPANY RECORDa daily freight train schedule to fi ve-per-week to improve effi ciency. With fewer fuel cars to pull, the railroad began combining TOFC/COFC freight with fuel hauls. Previously freight trains averaged about 5,500 feet long (just over a mile). Freights now average about 7,500 feet.

While longer trains lower operating costs, they pose unique challenges to the Alaska Railroad. Train crews must maintain low “in-train forces” while safely moving between terminals within a 12-hour time frame. Th e train Dispatch offi ce plays a key role, ensuring effi cient movement of longer trains around each other at designated sidings. Th e Mechanical Department’s departure and terminal operations are also critical to building longer trains, inspecting and air testing, and properly placing distributed power locomotives within the train con-sist. During winter months, train lengths may be shortened due to cold temperatures, which lower air pressures in the braking system that runs the length of the train. Air pressure is a defi ning factor in the number of cars included in a train consist.

As Engineer Connor Keogh and Conductor Scott Siegmann navigated a nearly 2-mile-long freight train out of the Anchorage Yard on April 29, 2013, they were making Alaska Railroad (ARRC) history. (Coincidentally, both train crew members marked 15 years with ARRC this spring.) Measur-ing 10,242 feet — or 1.94 miles — the northbound freight set a record as the railroad’s longest train to date. Th e train consisted of 114 cars (74 loaded and 40 empty) and six locomotives — four in front and two in the middle to provide distributed power.

Th e late spring freeze spurred some trucking companies to add more trailers than usual to the train, noted Transportation Superintendent Jon Garner. Th e train’s fl at cars carried containers and trailers (COFC/TOFC) from the Alaska Marine Rail Service (ARMS) and Canadian National (CN) interline barge operations. Th e remaining cars were fuel tankers, most of which were headed for the North Pole Refi nery to be fi lled.

In June 2012, the refi nery signifi cantly reduced fuel output, and in response ARRC went from

NEW SIGNS ON BUSES. (PHOTO BY DWIGHT WEST)(See “Operation Lifesaver Grant” on page 8)

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CROSSINGS:PORT MAC GROUND-BREAKING

LANTERN:ENGINE 557 RESTORATION

CROSSINGS: NEWS YOU CAN USE

OPERATION LIFESAVER AWARDS $17K GRANTGood news from Operation Lifesaver Inc. (OLI),

which awarded nearly $17,000 in grant funding to expand an Alaska Summer Rail Safety Campaign that kicked off May 11 at the Alaska Railroad’s Fairbanks Open House. OLI is a national/international organiza-tion that promotes public rail safety.

Alaska OL State Coordinator Dwight West worked with ARRC Corporate Aff airs to develop educational activities and materials to promote safety around railroad tracks and crossings during the summer, when more people are outdoors and train activity increases. Th e railroad chipped in about $9,000 in travel, printing, material design and in-kind prize resources to get the

ALL ABOARDALL ABOARD

2ND QTR 2013

We cannot control the weather. But we can control how effectively and how safely we respond to meet each season’s challenges.

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CHRIS AADNESEN

(See “Safety Audit underway” on page 3)

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

REPORTS TELL STORY OF SEASONS AND SAFETY By Chris Aadnesen, Chief Executive Offi cer

Regular reports from the maintenance-of-way (MOW) front line tell a story of battling relentless weather no matter the season. We expect winter’s frigid hazards — deep and layered snowfalls that produce destructive avalanches; extreme sub-zero temperatures that immobilize diesel equipment; and icy rails that inhibit traction. We understand that autumn rain will likely result in mudslides and washouts. In spring, we assume break-up will yield ice fl ows that scour track embankments and pum-mel bridge foundations.

Shouldn’t summer off er a reprieve from the tri-als posed by Alaska weather? Not this year, given a record-setting number of hot days in June. As tem-peratures rose and cloudless skies allowed our rail to absorb the sun’s energy, the heat caused the steel to expand, threatening stability of the rail bed in many areas. Resulting slow orders meant our passenger trains did not always meet their schedules.

Whether conditions are hot, cold, wet or dry, we strive to meet customer expectations for on-time departures and arrivals. I appreciate the eff orts of our crews to keep our trains moving under some tough conditions. Th e work is hard and tiring, and accomplished at all hours.

Despite the challenges, regular safety reports in-dicate that most railroaders are paying attention and

performing their work safely. So far in 2013, the Alaska Railroad safety eff orts are producing positive results compared to years past. Safety statistics are mostly within targets. Our employees have incurred less than half the number of on-the-job injuries and associated days-away-from-work compared to 2012. We are seeing fewer and less severe injuries.

Incident numbers have also improved over 2012. We are meeting our goal of less than eight Vehicle Incidents in 2013. We have seven zero-in-cident performance goals and are still on track with goals for no Electronic Device Violations, no FRA Reportable Derailments, and no On-track Equip-ment Collisions. Even so, we have not attained the remaining four zero-incident goals, having had two Authority Violations, two On-Track Protection mishaps, one Run-Away-Rolling-Stock incident and one Vehicle Backing incident. Th ere is always room for improvement.

Th is year’s corporate performance audit (see separate story below) is focused on safety. Th rough the Safety Audit, we will take a hard look at the culture of this company in order to make positive changes. Everyone stands to benefi t.

We cannot control the weather. But we can control how eff ectively and how safely we respond to meet each season’s challenges. Keep up the good, safe work!


RAILROAD UNDERGOES SAFETY AUDIT A performance audit of the Alaska Railroad’s

Safety Management System — safety program oversight, policies, tools and practices — got un-derway in July. Perhaps the most visible aspect of the Safety Audit is an Employee Safety and Cultural Engagement Survey that will solicit input from all employees.

ARRC hired Alaskan consulting fi rm Th e Engagement Eff ect (TEE) to conduct the audit and administer the culture survey. Th e eff ort will:

Identify our Safety Management System strengths and weaknesses.

Evaluate interdepartmental communications relating to safety.

In terms of supporting employee safety, determine what we do well and what we can improve.

Identify metrics to gauge the safety culture aff ecting safety performance.

Identify ways to increase employee engage-ment in the safety program.

Develop short and long-term action plans to create better work environments.

Execute action plans to achieve higher levels of performance.

Beginning in early July, all employees are asked to complete a brief online survey focused on em-ployee engagement. Th e input of every employee is extremely important, and all employees are given an opportunity to take the survey via computer with internet access. However, employees can also request a paper copy of the survey. TEE will analyze survey results and generate reports, allowing em-ployees to view fi ndings for the overall organization as well as for specifi c work groups or departments. All individual survey responses will remain totally


2ND QTR 2013

3CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER REPORT

PERSONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY BENEFIT ALL By Barbara Amy, Chief Financial Offi cer

It’s mid-year, and as we look at how we have performed versus revised budget so far this year, we can all feel good about being ahead of our net income plan by $3.2 million through May. ARRC’s net income plan through May was a net loss of $9.1 million and we came in at a net loss of $5.8 million going into our busy summer season. From a freight revenue perspective, by far our largest revenue source, we’ve seen some business lines outperform, others underperform, and revenue from new sources joining the mix, all combining for a 4% gain over revised budget. Th e Passenger business outper-formed its revenue plan as well by 7%, and Real Estate also outperformed its revenue plan by 5%. Vigilance on the expense front and a comparatively mild fi rst quarter in terms of weather has resulted in performance on expenses that was 3% better than we had planned through May. Th ese variances might seem small in percentage terms on their own, but they all combine to drive net income to the plus side by 36% versus revised budget.

While ARRC’s performance so far this year is encouraging, keep in mind that our full year revised budget is for net income of $4.9 million, and even if we are able to hold on to a $3.2 million positive variance as we go through the remainder of the year, we would fi nish the year still down 35% from where we fi nished 2012, which would continue a downward trend that ARRC’s net income has been following for the last four years. We need to remain focused on what we do best: operating the railroad as safely and as effi ciently as we possibly can. Atten-tion to safety is an enormous driver in the profi t-ability and sustainability of this company. Th is year, in keeping with our annual practice of taking a closer look at one aspect of our business, the per-formance audit topic is safety, and many of you will be asked to participate in one aspect or another of

the safety audit process. Please do participate and contribute your thoughts and ideas on this very im-portant topic. Everyone’s commitment to a culture of safety in the workplace is vital to our success.

One way that we can all contribute to a safe workplace, and probably not the most obvious fac-tor, is by pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Our health underlies our ability to focus and perform our work safely. Fitness and overall wellness help to improve energy levels and brain function. To that end, each of us can think about what we can do to set ourselves up for good health, and ultimately, a safer work environment. Maybe it’s the annual preventative check-up with the doctor that we’ve been putting off , or participating in the bike-to-work challenge, or giving up smoking. Ask yourself what you can be doing to improve your health, the quality of your life, and the safety of the workplace for you and your co-workers.

anonymous and confi dential, and results will only be reported in groups of no less than 10 employees.

In addition to the survey, TEE will conduct interviews and site visits, and review ARRC safety documents, policies, procedures and work practices. Employees will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of the action plans.

Alaska Statute 42.40, the state law that estab-lished the Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC), requires an annual performance audit to examine

key aspects of management and operations. Per-formance topics over the years include mechanical, fl eet management, profi tability, maintenance-of-way and engineering, marketing, real estate, strategic planning, information systems, passenger services, transportation and corporate management. Th e last time the Board of Directors selected safety as a topic was in 1999.

For more information, contact Mark Mitchell, Director of Safety, at 265-2515.

BARBARA AMY

SAFETY AUDIT UNDERWAY ... (continued from page 2)

MARK MITCHELL

We need to remain focused on what we do best: operating the railroad as safely and as effi -ciently as we possibly can. At-tention to safety is an enormous driver in the profi tability and sustainability of this company.

Ask yourself what you can be doing to improve your health, the quality of your life, and the safety of the workplace for you and your co-workers.


2ND QTR 2013

4SIDINGS: EMPLOYEE HIGHLIGHTS

NEW EXECUTIVE MGMT TEAM MEMBERSTh e Alaska Railroad’s Executive Management

Team includes two new faces. Below is an introduc-tion to the railroad’s new Vice President of Engi-neering and Transportation Superintendent. Both report to Chief Operating Offi cer Bill O’Leary.

Clark HoppVice President Engineering

Clark Hopp was named Vice President Engi-neering in May 2013 as long-time Chief Engineer/VP Engineering Tom Brooks retired. As VP, he is responsible for engineering, track maintenance-of-way, signals, bridges and project management functions. Hopp has been with the Alaska Railroad since 2001 when he was hired as a capital projects manager. In 2003, he became Manager, Civil Proj-ects and in 2011, Hopp was promoted to Director of Special Projects, overseeing the two mega rail extension projects — Port MacKenzie Rail Exten-sion and Northern Rail Extension, Phase One.

Before joining ARRC, Hopp worked for Tran-systems Corporation, a nationwide engineering consulting fi rm based in Nebraska. From 1995 to 2001, Hopp provided project management services to Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and Union Pacifi c (UP) railroads. Hopp earned a degree in Construction Engineering Technology from Iowa Western College and completed additional engi-neering coursework at the University of Nebraska.

Jon GarnerTransportation Superintendent

Jon Garner was promoted to Transportation Superintendent in January of 2013. He reports to COO Bill O’Leary. Jon started as a brakeman with the Alaska Railroad in 2003 and most recently served as the Superintendent of Southern Termi-nals. As Transportation Superintendent, Garner is responsible for directing and coordinating activities of the Transportation Division and its compo-nent functions including train dispatch, terminal management, rail-marine operations, operating rules and practices. He is also responsible for ensur-ing that business plans, operations, and assets are managed and directed in a manner consistent with a safe, effi cient, and profi table rail transportation system in compliance with applicable laws, regula-tions, and industry standards.

Garner attended the Michigan State University Railway Management Program in East Lansing, Michigan and the Johnson County Community College Railroad Science Program in Overland Park, Kansas. Garner has lived in Alaska since 1981. A graduate of Chugiak high school, he is an active member of USA Hockey and has been a coach in the Eagle River area for the last 10 years.

SIDINGS: EMPLOYEE HIGHLIGHTS

PASSENGER SERVICES: WHOM TO CALL?Th e passenger summer season is well underway

and as of the end of May revenue was up 9.5% over the same period in 2012. Following the recent company reorganization and personnel changes, some Railroaders have wondered who to call on various topics related to passenger operations. Here’s the scoop:

As Director of Guest Services and Passenger Marketing, Bruce LaLonde is the person to contact for passenger marketing, sales and services. For the marketing function, LaLonde is responsible for de-signing and promoting passenger services. Assisting Bruce are Jeff Johnson and Heather Dudick, along with two marketing positions that are currently vacant. For the guest services function, Lalonde directs customer service delivery, from reservations to the on-board experience. Assisting Bruce are Sarah Streiff ert, who oversees the onboard guest experience; Robert Russell who oversees tour guides and their supervisors, John Simmons who oversees

depot and gift shops services; and Tucker Remley who oversees reservations and ticketing.

Lalonde is working with Human Resources to fi ll the two marketing vacancies: the Online Content Manager and Marketing Communica-tions Manager. Th e Marketing Communications Manager will administer the production and timing of passenger print, radio and television advertis-ing; and oversee social media campaigns, ARRC web content updates and advertising. Th e Online Content Manager will be responsible for ARRC’s web site design and content, developing a compre-hensive Internet marketing strategy, pay-per-click campaigns, and email marketing.

Until these positions are fi lled, Lalonde is the point of contact for inquiries related to these posi-tions, and some of the work is being performed by ARRC’s contract advertising and public relations agencies.

CLARK HOPP

JON GARNER

BRUCE LALONDE


2ND QTR 2013

5MILEPOSTS

NEW HIRES: APRIL, MAY, JUNEHeather Alley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AccountingMichael Aronwits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesTimothy Bates. . . . . . . . . . . . . Supply ManagementChad Beckley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJenelle Bennett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesEmily Biering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesBenjamin Bowen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationEdward Brannon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationAntonia Brune. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesRichard Faber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transportation Kassi Fetters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesChristine Fisher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesMackenzie French . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesJewel Gaisoa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesGreg Gallagher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMatthew Graham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesLori Griffi th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationDonald Hartley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalRebecca Homola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AccountingMitchel Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . Information ServicesBranden Kressly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJames King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationAshlee Lamm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesKatrina Lehse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMadison Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesHelen Lindamood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest Services

Emily Lombard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesStephanie Malone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesKassandra Matotte. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesTyler McCormick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJustin Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . TelecommunicationsAmalia Morse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesJoseph Mueller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesHarley Neel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMichael Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMatthew Newkirk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesRobert Notti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJames Ogden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMatthew Parisen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationKristine Pedretti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesJonathan Redfearn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMichael Roberson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesAndee Rodgers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationBrian Scheid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TelecommunicationsJohn Schnering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalMichael Sollars . . . . . . . . . . . . Information ServicesTimothy Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesJennifer Claire Stump . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesMichael Teeples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesZoelea Vey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationWendy Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesBrandon York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest Services

MILEPOSTS

HOME FRONT: BIRTHS AND RETIREMENTSBirths: New Arrivals

Passenger Services Agent Sazil Say and hus-band William Say welcomed their son Brannum Warren Say, on April 28.

Brakeman David Phillips and wife Kristen Phillips welcomed son Killian Cole Phillips on May 16.

Retirements: Fond Farewells Chief Engineer / VP Engineering Tom Brooks

retired from the Engineering Department after nearly 27 years of service.

Strategic Planning Director Bruce Carr retired from Corporate Aff airs Department after more than 33 years of service.

Maintenance of Way Section Foreman Steven Hayes retired from the Maintenance Depart-ment after more than 37 years of service.

Railcar Fleet Manager Bob Kooren retired from the Mechanical Department after more than 31 years of service.

Contract Administration Specialist Rick Mosher retired from the Supply Management Department with nearly 25 years of service.

Technology Administrative Assistant Patricia Th ibodeaux retired from the Technol-ogy Department after nearly 17 years of service.

Journeyman Mechanic Leader Lloyd Th ompson retired from the Mechanical Depart-ment after nearly 28 years of service.

Payroll Technician Christine Turner retired from the Accounting Department after 18 years of service.

Telecom Radio Technician Eugene Vicere re-tired from the Telecommunications & Network Department after more than 37 years of service.

Inventory Control Manager Duane “Jack” Vossen retired from the Supply Management Department after 28 years of service.


2ND QTR 2013

6MILEPOSTS

SERVICE AWARDS: OCTOBER - DECEMBER1 Year Philip Corre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceJoshua Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalGarrett Dusenberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalEdwin Kee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalJoshua Kishlock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceJennifer Lorenz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesJoshua Murray. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationSasha Peterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesBrian Studinski . . . . . . . . . . . . TelecommunicationsJustin Voss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJeff rey Wendt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceOtto Wendt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TelecommunicationsAlexander Wilson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Maintenance

5 Years Molly Adams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationGale Dinsmore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationReuben Dorrough III . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJoshua Kuznicki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SignalNicholas MacArthur . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceAaren Mackenzie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesAndrew Phillips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceEric Rangel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationJoshua Robinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationAlesia Salmela . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Guest ServicesBryan Sooter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transportation

10 Years Michael Alfaro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationLouis Bencardino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Real EstateTimothy Coahran . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationGail Edwards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SignalJeanette Greenbaum . . . . . . . . Engineering Services

Guy Hickling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceShannon Jenson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SignalGreg Poisson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalPerry Robbins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalDaniel Rosario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalScott Vietmeier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SignalScott Winther . . . . . . . . . . . Business Development

15 Years Warron Bainbridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalBrett Brown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationAyanna Clifton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalJames Cuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalJeff rey Davies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenanceJeff Johnson. . . . . . . . . . . . . Business DevelopmentStephan Kester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationMichelle Maddox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AccountingWillow Peyton. . . . . . . . . . . . . Information Services

20 Years Ian Frazier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationKevin Meier . . . . . . . . . . . . Business Development

30 Years Donald Freestone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MechanicalPaula Psik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TransportationLynn Reitz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transportation

35 Years John Barber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MaintenancePeter Hackenberger . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transportation

MILEPOSTS: EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

SECOND QUARTER SPOTLIGHT AWARDS President and CEO Chris Aadnesen approved

one Spotlight Award during the second quarter of 2013. Car Operations Manager Ron Th ompson was recognized for his ongoing commitment to improving Alaska Railroad safety processes. Many examples demonstrate a far-reaching and benefi cial impact. Th ompson’s service on the Rule Book Committee off ered the perspective of Operations employees at all levels, helping to ensure company policy corresponds with practical application. He recently assumed responsibility for overseeing our TOFC business, and in a relatively short time his leadership has dramatically infl uenced an improve-

ment to the TOFC group’s safety record. Th omp-son routinely navigates a wide range of safety issues, and focuses on solutions that address both physical conditions and work processes that result in safer operations. Th is determination is evident in his conscientious involvement in many Safety Issue Resolution Process (SIRP) issues — some that are extremely complex and seemingly impossible to resolve. Yet, he successfully pursues solutions in a manner that is fair, even-handed and cost-conscious. Th ompson is an inspiration to employees who recognize a sincere concern for their safety and welfare.

RON THOMPSON


2ND QTR 2013

7CROSSINGS: NEWS YOU CAN USE

PUBLIC WEIGHS IN ON STATE RAIL PLAN Th e Alaska State Rail Plan team was busy in

May and June. Public open houses were held in in Skagway, Haines, Wasilla, Seward, Anchorage, Fairbanks and Nome to seek input on the plan’s Vision Statement, plan goals, and to identify potential system-wide needs. A total of 128 people attended the open houses. Another 28 people heard a presentation during a joint meeting of the Kenai and Soldotna chambers of commerce.

Th e open houses gave folks around the state an opportunity to think about the role railroads in Alaska have played and to give some thought to how the two operating railroads can continue to serve the state in the future. “Th e White Pass and Alaska Railroad both have proud histories of service to the state and its citizens, and have been drivers of economic development. But that is the past. Th e team is looking for what railroads can do in the future. Many good comments were received at the open houses. Th e team is digesting those and has started to put the draft Rail Plan together,” said Bruce Carr, who retired June 28, after 33 years of railroad service. Th e former Director of Strate-gic Planning will continue to represent the Alaska Railroad through the end of the project, which is expected to conclude during Fall/Winter of 2013.

Nearly 1400 people are included on the team’s initial contact list, and more than 850 people have signed up to receive future e-mail correspondence about the project. Th e team encourages interested people to sign up on the project website, http://dot.alaska.gov/railplan for future plan updates. Com-ments may also be provided at the web site.

Two more open houses will be conduct-ed online in the future. Th e fi rst will focus on identifying projects and investment opportunities that support the plan’s vision and goals; the second will receive comments on the draft plan. On-line meetings will be announced on the project website (http://dot.alaska.gov/railplan), via e-mail announcements, and other media.

BRUCE CARR, RIGHT,

DISCUSSES FUTURE RAIL

ISSUES WITH NOME

RESIDENT JIM HANSON

(PHOTO BY DIANA

HAECKER, COURTESY OF

THE NOME NUGGET).

LANTERN: ALASKA RAILROAD HISTORY

RAILROAD RECOGNIZES 90TH ANNIVERSARY Ninety years ago, President Warren

G. Harding traveled to Nenana on July 15 to drive a golden spike to connect and signify completion of the newly-constructed Alaska Railroad. To help celebrate the 90th anniversary of it’s comple-tion, the Alaska Railroad distrib-uted commemorative certifi cates to all Alaska Railroad passengers traveling on July 15, 2013, and has organized special activities on passenger trains travelling through Nenana. In addi-tion, a special commemorative logo was created and is included on celebratory materials.

ARRC will continue to recognize this impor-tant milestone with other events throughout the year. For example, a special First Friday art event is planned for August 2 at several Ship Creek area establishments in Anchorage where the Alaska Rail-road will showcase its annual art print program by displaying original paintings and framed art prints from the past three decades. Some of the Alaskan

ON JULY 15, 1923, PRESIDENT HARDING

DRIVES THE GOLDEN SPIKE IN NENANA TO

COMMEMORATE THE RAILROAD’S COMPLETION. 90TH ANNIVERSARY

TH

E ALASKA RAILROAD

artists who created the artwork will par-ticipate. For more information, contact

External Aff airs Manager Tim Sul-livan at extension 2357.

TIM SULLIVAN


2ND QTR 2013

8


RAIL SAFETY WEEK PROCLAIMED JULY 21-27Governor Sean Parnell proclaimed July 21-27 to

be Alaska Rail Safety Awareness Week, enhancing the summer rail safety public education campaign organized and funded by the Alaska Railroad and Operation Lifesaver Inc. (OLI). Kicked off in May, the Track Wise: Summer Rail Safety Campaign incorporates activities, signs and public service an-nouncements (PSA) that encourage residents and visitors to stay safe around railroad tracks and cross-ings within rail belt communities.

Th e proclamation reiterates State support for highway-railroad crossing and pedestrian safety

programs, recognizes the importance of public education, supports for the 2013 summer rail safety campaign and encourages all citizens to adopt rail safety practices.

In addition to the proclamation, Governor Parnell invited the Alaska chapter of Operation Lifesaver (OL-AK) to participate in the Governor’s Picnics in Palmer (July 19), Anchorage (July 20), and Fairbanks (July 21). Th e OL-AK / ARRC dis-play at the picnics included rail safety information, Operation Lifesaver giveaways and a drawing to win Alaska Railroad tickets.

OPERATION LIFESAVER GRANT ... (continued from page 1) muters were distributed to bike clubs, stores and

bike-to-work organizations. People who attend Mat-Su Miners baseball games are hearing PSA an-nouncements at home games and seeing rail safety fl yers in game program booklets. Motorists who visit Department of Motor Vehicle offi ces around the state may view an 8-slide PSA message shown periodically on lobby monitors. OL-AK will par-ticipate in three of the Governor’s public late July picnics in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Palmer. Finally, OL-AK volunteers are being called upon to present OL messages to requesting groups.

Th e Alaska Railroad competed with railroads across the nation for limited OLI grant dollars. “We are grateful for the opportunity to boost our public safety messages. Our goal is to use proactive re-minders to keep residents and visitors ‘Track Wise’ and safe,” said West.

campaign going at a minimum level. Th e Alaska Chapter of Operation Lifesaver (OL-AK) leveraged this local contribution to earn the OLI grant to underwrite the expanded eff ort, known as Tier Two.

Th e messages “Always Expect a Train” and “Stay Off ! Stay Away! Stay Alive!” are prominent in all the expanded campaign elements being executed in July and August. Employees may notice radio public service announcements (PSA) on popular radio stations in southcentral Alaska. Readers of the Mat-Su Valley’s Frontiersman newspaper may notice a PSA ad in Friday editions. Small yard signs are being manufactured and will be placed at entrances to trails that are close to the right-of-way in An-chorage, Mat-Su and Fairbanks. Two locomotives are having banner decals affi xed on both sides to remind the public to stay clear of the tracks and to look and listen before crossing. Eleven of Anchor-age’s People Mover busses will display signs for an addtitional four weeks, through mid-August. Bum-per stickers for company vehicles (and interested employees) were printed and are available.

Tier One activities are already in full swing. A children’s rail safety art contest concluded in early July. Flyers with rail safety tips for bicycle com-NEWSPAPER PUBLIC SERVICE AD.

JULY 19: SPORTING A NEW OPERATION LIFESAVER DECAL

AFFIXED TO ITS SIDES, LOCOMOTIVE 4319 MOVES OVER

THE FIREWEED CROSSING NEAR THE PARKS-GLENN HIGH-

WAY INTERCHANGE. (PHOTO BY DWIGHT WEST)

OPERATION LIFESAVER RAIL

SAFETY MATERIALS ARE SEEN AND

DISTRIBUTED AT THE MAY 11

FAIRBANKS OPEN HOUSE.

DWIGHT WEST MANS AN OL BOOTH AT THE OPEN HOUSE.


2ND QTR 2013


RAILROAD CONDUCTS PASSENGER DRILL Th e Alaska Railroad (ARRC) conducted a pas-

senger train emergency simulation exercise on May 29, 2013, meeting an annual federal requirement. ARRC’s Incident Management Team (IMT) was activated and implemented their response manage-ment organization at the ARRC Anchorage Opera-tions Center.

Additional participants included the Alaska State Troopers, Kenai Borough emergency response, and fi re departments from Whittier, Girdwood,

Seward, Bear Creek, Moose Pass and Anchorage. Th e drill involved the simulated derailment of a

locomotive and ARRC passenger coach in Whit-tier, along with “injured” passengers. Th e exercise successfully met the goal to establish a response management organization, develop an incident action plan (IAP), mobilize appropriate emergency response to a passenger train emergency, and safely evacuate passengers from a passenger coach.


TECHNOLOGY HELP & VOICE MAIL REMINDERSTechnology Emergencies: Information Technology (IT) emergency assistance is available around the clock. For after-hours, technology-related issues that may cause a critical work stoppage — especially if safety or a train delay is at issue — call 632-3323 to reach the on-call technician. Issues that may result in a delayed train may be escalated to the Vice President of Advanced Train Control Systems & Technology (ATCST) Eileen Reilly. Fore more information, contact:

Eileen Reilly, VP ATCST: 441-9109 Joe Carlton, Director of Telecommunications &

Network Infrastructure: 775-0370 Nick Sullenberger, Manager of Network

Operations: 352-328-7682

Paul Willman, Manager of Business Systems Analysis: 444-5811

Voice Mail Returns to Fairbanks: In late June, Matanuska Telephone Association installed a new phone server system in Fairbanks, replacing a much older system that was not compatible with ARRC’a current voice mail system. Th e upgrade restores voice mail for Railroaders in Fairbanks. In addi-tion, company phones in Fairbanks are considered local calls when dialed from company phones in Anchorage. Th is means employees in Anchorage dial 9 + the seven-digit number, no longer needing to add the 907 prefi x. For voicemail assistance, call Carlton at x3926 or Brian Studinski at x3950.

1 THE LIFE FLIGHT

EMERGENCY MEDICAL

EVACUATION HELICOP-

TER TAKES FLIGHT WITH

A CRUISE SHIP IN THE

BACKGROUND.

2 SAFTEY MANAGER

DENNIS BENSEL AND

INCIDENT COMMAND

SYSTEM CONTRACTOR

JOE STAMS CONFER ON

DRILL DETAILS.

3 DENNIS BENSEL VOL-

UNTEERS AS A “VICTIM”

ALLOWING EMERGENCY

RESPONDERS TO

PRACTICE EXTRACTION

FROM A RAIL CAR.

4 ARRC RETIREE JIM

SEEBERGER AND

PASSENGER OPERATIONS

MANAGER SARAH

STREIFFERT ENGAGE IN

THE DRILL.

(PHOTOS BY BRUCE

GOUGH)

1

3

2

4


2ND QTR 2013


GREEN STAR UPDATE REVEALS PROGRESSEvery couple of years, Green Star asks certifi ed

members to update environmental stewardship eff orts. Th e Alaska Railroad’s 2011 update earned a premier Green Star Super Nova Award. Th is year, many thanks go to Supply Management, Facilities, Passenger Services, Finance, Vehicle Fleet Manage-ment, Corporate Administration and Mechanical for collecting current data. Th e June 2013 update reveals progress Railroaders can be proud of.

Natural Gas Conservation: Although ARRC gained 96,000 sq. ft. of Anchorage facility space between 2006 and 2013, natural gas consump-tion declined by more than 500,000 cubic feet (saving half a million dollars!) annually, due largely to boiler upgrades and energy leak repairs.

Water and Hazmat Conservation: A new water feed pump installed on the Anchorage boiler sys-tem dramatically reduced our annual water bill from $56,000 to $7,500 and cut water treatment chemicals by two-thirds (12 to 4 barrels).

Locomotive Fuel Conservation: Saved at least $100,000 in diesel fuel by eliminating idling for locomotives stored inside during the winter.

Reduced Plastic Waste: Better managed bottled water purchases resulted in fewer bottles going to offi ces where tap water is available. In 2012, 95% of bottled water was purchased for fi eld locations with little access to drinking water, compared to 2007 when 68% went to fi eld locations.

Support Transportation Alternatives: ARRC gave rail tickets and safety tips in support of summer bike-to-work eff orts. ARRC is also co-ordinating railroad land use in support of a new future Chena River trail in Fairbanks and 2013 Coastal Trail improvements in Anchorage.

Recycled Offi ce Products: Over the years, the railroad has increased the percentage of recycled offi ce products from 16% in 2008 to 34% in 2012 (and 50% so far in 2013).

Recycling Cardboard: More depots are now recycling cardboard. A cardboard dumpster was added near the Historic Anchorage Depot

to facilitate onboard and gift shop cardboard recycling. In 2012 all depots began sending card-board to Anchorage for recycling.

Vehicle Fuel Conservation: Fleet management continues to improve vehicle effi ciency. GPS units are installed in 95% of all vehicles allowing idle time tracking that should lead to improve-ments. During 2012-2013, ARRC will have re-duced fl eets by 36 vehicles and 23 pieces of heavy equipment that were under-used or ineffi cient.

Invasive Weeds: ARRC supports local invasive weed control eff orts in Fairbanks and Anchorage. For the past few years, donated rail tickets have encouraged volunteer participation.

Future Goals1. Train Crew Training for Fuel Conservation:

Once a new Positive Train Control (PTC)-com-pliant locomotive simulator is installed, train crew in-house training on fuel conservation measures can be enhanced by comparing actual and optimal locomotive operations.

2. Facility Electrical Utility Reductions: In 2013, ARRC will install electrical load monitors in the Anchorage Car Shop and Headquarters to track use and eventually lower too-high utility demand charges. Depending upon how well this lowers electrical usage and utility bills, similar monitoring systems will be installed in 11 other high-use facilities.

3. Printing Reductions: Several recommendations to reduce ARRC printing materials and expense are under consideration. Th ese include use of shared printers, print management software, focus on duplex printing and other paper-reduc-tion measures, optimizing printer-to-employee ratio, and standardizing printer equipment.

For more information about the railroad’s Green Star membership, contact Stephenie Wheeler at 265-2671 or [email protected]. Wheeler coordi-nates ARRC’s Green Star certifi cation / updates.


REMINDER: FRAUD HOTLINE READY TO CALLReminder: employees can report any kind of

suspected fraud, waste or abuse of railroad equip-ment, funds or supplies through a new Fraud Hotline established in early April. Th e hotline was an employee suggestion to curb potential misuse of company resources. Th e number is 265-2214.

Employees can report anonymously. Calls go directly to voice mail allowing callers to provide in-formation as a recorded message. Th e hotline phone does not capture caller ID and is not located by any Police & Security personnel.

STEPHENIE WHEELER


2ND QTR 2013


401(K) PLAN UPDATES AND ANNUAL REPORTTh e Human Resources department recently up-

dated the 401(k) Summary Plan Description (SPD) for each bargaining unit and for non-represented employees. Each SPD is accompanied by a Sum-mary of Changes from previous versions. Th ese documents are now posted on the Tax Deferred

Th e Pension and Represented 401(k) Tax Deferred Savings Plan Committee presents this report of accomplishments and status of the ARRC 401(k) Plan as of the end of 2012.

Although overseas fi nancial struggles have impacted the recov-ery of the U.S. economy, during 2012 the 401(k) Plan continued to refl ect the gradual upward trend experienced by the market over the last couple of years.

Overall, assets increased 11% over 2011 year end plan balances, including both contributions and earnings, less withdrawals.

Asset allocation remained remarkably consistent when com-pared with 2011 fi gures. Large Cap funds hold the highest per-centage of plan assets at 31.4%, with Fixed Income and Target Date Funds following at 30.3% & 21.6%, respectively.

Th e average participant balance at year end was $110,950. On December 4, 2012, Vanguard rolled out an upgrade to

the Retirement Plan website. Th e site was redesigned to provide a simpler, easier-to-navigate, more intuitive experience for partici-pants so you can easily fi nd information and take action on your retirement planning and saving.

Savings Plan page on the Employee web site. Also updated is the Loan Policy, which explains basic provisions for taking a loan from a 401K plan. More information is available from ARRC Retire-ment Plans Manager Th eresa MacLeod, ext. 2546, [email protected].

ALASKA RAILROAD CORPORATION 401(K) TAX DEFERRED SAVINGS PLAN

2012 ANNUAL REPORT

2012 2011

Employee Contributions $ 3,551,935 $ 3,377,711Employer Match $ 659,755 $ 656,662Total $ 4,211,690 $ 4,034,373Plan Balance, 12/31 $ 73,813,178 $ 66,660,021Average Balance $ 110,950 $ 99,049Active Participants 515 530All Participants 662 673

% ACTIVE EMPLOYEES AVERAGE DEFERRAL

PARTICIPATING PERCENTAGE

2012 2011 2012 2011

ARW 74% 74% 10.2% 10.4%ATDA 100% 100% 16.8% 17.8%TMSTR 65% 65% 9.6% 11.6%Non-Rep 84% 89% 10.1% 10.2%TCU 59% 65% 10.3% 10.0%UTU 66% 66% 12.7% 10.1%

Total 74% 76% 11.1% 10.7%

401(K) PLAN GROWTH & ACTIVITY FROM 2011 TO 2012


2ND QTR 2013


COST CONTAINMENT COMMITTEE PROGRESSBy Pam Barbeau, Records & Benefi ts Manager

For many years ARRC has had a joint labor-management Insurance Cost Containment Com-mittee (CCC) designed to allow discussion about ways to reduce the costs of the insurance programs outside of the labor negotiations process. Th rough the eff orts of the committee have come such changes as the 3-tier prescription drug benefi t, and preventive care covered at 100%.

With the continuing fi nancial challenges facing the corporation, revitalization of the CCC was seen as a way to bring forward ideas to help address the escalating costs of our employee benefi ts programs. In April the unions were invited to name new or continuing representatives to this reformulated Benefi t Plans Cost Containment Committee:

• ARW: Travis Caraveau• ATDA: Arlene Rhoades• IBT: Derek Musto• TCU: Nate Lunn• UTU: Landon Messelheiser• Mgmt: Susan Lindemuth and Pam Barbeau

Th e “new” committee began meeting in June, with the members working hard to get up to speed on the plans and issues. Th e focus right now is the health plan and ways that ARRC can manage and reduce costs while maintaining a viable plan. Th e committee is considering possible plan changes, which, if recommended by the group, would require member approval by each union and ARRC management before implementation. However, the committee is also, and just as importantly, discuss-ing other issues such as employee/plan participant education and communication. You will soon be seeing more information about how to use the ARRC Health Plan wisely, how to get information on your claims and benefi ts, and so on. Th e com-mittee will be exploring diff erent ways to get that information to you.

Your ideas and suggestions in keeping with the committee’s goals are welcome. Please contact your committee representative or Human Resources with your input. As always, feel free to contact Human Resources if you have benefi ts questions.


NURSELINE GIVES FREE HEALTH CARE ADVICE


RAILROAD CHANGES SAFETY GLASSES VENDOR

Members of the Alaska Railroad’s Health Plan are reminded of a valuable resource to help them decide where to seek care if an illness or injury oc-curs. Th e Premera NurseLine -- 1-800-841-8343 – off ers the opportunity to speak to a nurse who will help you choose the best option of care for your situation. It’s free and it’s confi dential, and it’s avail-able day or night.

Cost is not the primary consideration, but cost is a factor when making a decision on where to go for care. A doctor’s offi ce is typically going to cost less than a visit to an Urgent Care facility, or the Emergency Room, which is almost always the most expensive.

Th e Alaska Railroad has contracted with a new safety glasses vendor in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. Eff ective immediately, employees should no longer use the Eye Guys in Wasilla as a vendor for safety glasses.

Beginning July 22, ARRC employees will re-ceive their prescription safety glasses from:

Your doctor’s offi ce is best for situations that do not need immediate attention. Urgent care clin-ics off er walk-in care when you can’t wait for an appointment with your regular physician. Examples include cold or fl u, minor broken bones (fi nger, toe, etc.), sprain, strain or cut, or diagnostic services such as x-ray or lab test. Th e Emergency Room is appropriate for life-threatening conditions or trauma requiring immediate medical treatment. Ex-amples include heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled bleeding, major broken bones, loss of consciousness or vision, and severe prolonged seizures or abdomi-nal pain.

Cap Stone Eye Clinic 3505 E. Palmer-Wasilla HighwayPhone number: (907) 357-9595

Railroad PPE forms refl ect this change in ven-dors. For more information, contact Safety Manger Denny Bensel, CSP, CESCO, 265-2265.

PAM BARBEAU


2ND QTR 2013


PORT MACKENZIE RAIL GROUND BREAKS On June 4, 2013, some 150 people attended a

groundbreaking ceremony for the Port MacKenzie Rail Extension. Th e afternoon event was situated atop a ridge with the future one-mile rail loop on one side and a clear view of Knik Arm on the other.

Th e ground-breaking featured Governor Sean Parnell who reiterated the state’s support for the extension as a project with statewide economic development potential. As one of the fi rst speak-ers, ARRC Chief Operating Offi cer Bill O’Leary welcomed guests and recognized the Matanuska Susitna Borough for its role as project sponsor and

champion. ARRC Director and Past Chairman John Binkley concluded the event with a spirited look at Alaska and Railroad history related to visionary projects.

Th e project will connect the port to the Alaska Railroad’s existing main line near Houston, with a 32-mile spur. Th is summer three segments are under construction, creating 116 jobs, and $88 million in construction work. By fall there will be nearly 200 jobs created and $116 million in construction work when a fourth segment gets underway.

THE ARRC 2011 CHAIN

GANG TEAM’S BCA BIKE

CHALLENGE TROPHY WON

IN THE EXTRA LARGE

COMPANY CATGORY WON

IN 2011.

SIDINGS: EMPLOYEE HAPPENINGS

CHAIN GANG SEEKS 3RD BIKE CHALLENGE WINFor the fourth year, the Alaska Railroad’s Chain

Gang employee bike team is competing in the Bicycle Commuters of Anchorage (BCA) Sum-mer Commuter Challenge. Th e Challenge began in 2010 to encourage Anchorage area residents to consider alternatives to automobiles. Environmental Analyst Jeanette Greenbaum formed that fi rst team, which won the 2010 competition with the most miles ridden.

Th e Chain Gang also won the 2011 Summer Commuter Challenge in the Extra Large Company category by producing the highest percentage of trips completed relative the number of employees based in Anchorage. As of early July, ARRC’s team holds a perishable lead. Th e contest ends August 16.

New this year, the 2013 Challenge includes commuters who walk and take the bus to/from work. Although most of the ARRC Chain Gang members bike, fi ve ride the bus and one walks.

“Our hope is to encourage as many persons as possible to enjoy the benefi ts of forms of transporta-tion that do not involve privately owned automo-biles,” said Project Manager Don Worthley, 2013 Chain Gang organizer. “We welcome any one at any time to join us and share in the considerable health and fi nancial benefi ts of doing so.”

Visit the team folder at U:\COMMONUS\CHAIN GANG BIKE TEAM for basic bicycle information of all types, a team roster, and team archives to include a photo album.

ABOVE: LOCAL MAT-SU BOROUGH AND RAILROAD OFFICIALS, GOVERNOR

PARNELL AND LEGISLATORS BREAK GROUND AT THE PROJECT SITE (PHOTO BY

STEPHENIE WHEELER). RIGHT: ARRC BOARD DIRECTOR & PAST CHAIR-

MAN JOHN BINKLEY CONCLUDES THE CEREMONY WITH HISTORY-FOCUSED

COMMENTS (PHOTO COURTESY OF PATTY SULLIVAN / MAT-SU BOROUGH).


2ND QTR 2013

14WYE OF IT: CUSTOMERS AND COMMUNITIES

557 RESTORATION REACHES MILESTONE Restoration of the historic steam Engine 557

recently reached a milestone with the task of dismantling complete. Th e steam locomotive’s long cylindrical boiler is now exposed, allowing for close-up inspection that will lead to plans for a proper

rebuild. “557 came apart in nine months.

We hope to have her back working in 24 months – a very aggressive schedule,” said Pat Durand, President of the Engine 557 Restoration Company, an all-volunteer non-profi t organization. One challenge is working in a cold building. Last Au-gust, the 557 was moved to an Alaska Railroad-owned building on the outskirts of downtown Wasilla. Th e building has few amenities (no heat, water or sewer and minimal electricity). Th e railroad’s Facilities Department added lighting and upgraded the electrical system; supporters installed insulation, replaced the large doors and placed porta-potties outside. Th e no-frills

accommodations un-derscore the Restoration Company’s stewardship as it focuses donated resources entirely on the mission of rebuilding.

Contributions of in-kind goods, services and volunteer labor have driven the project’s re-markable progress so far. But now that the 557’s pieces and parts must be rebuilt, refurbished and

reassembled, substantial cash outlays are needed to purchase materials and to pay for fabrication and very specialized expertise.

Starting this summer, dismantled components will be cleaned, examined and refurbished or re-placed. In late June, consultant Robert Franzen fl ew from North Carolina to assess the boiler’s condition and formulate a plan for repair. “Few people who built and maintained steam locomotives are around anymore, and a full set of engine blueprints or plans does not exist,” noted Franzen, President of Steam Services of America and a virtual rock star in the steam engine restoration community. He is help-ing to locate partial plans and to supplement with drawings made by measuring parts from the 557.

Franzen is also working closely with the Res-toration Company’s volunteer Chief Mechanical Offi cer (CMO) Jeff DeBroeck, an ARRC heavy equipment mechanic. DeBroeck is uniquely

qualifi ed to be CMO given 15 years experience of operating, rebuilding and maintaining steam loco-motives in Washington, before he joined the Alaska Railroad. DeBroeck fi rst volunteered for three years with the Puget Sound and Snoqaulmie Valley Rail-road. He then spent a dozen years with the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad overhauling and operating many diff erent types of steam locomotives, while becoming a qualifi ed fi reman and engineer trainee. Th e 557 is the sixth steam engine restoration he has been involved with.

DeBroeck leads the mechanical work of about a dozen volunteers including ARRC train crew members Tim Coahran (Fairbanks), Robert Hinter-leitner and James Ogden. Meanwhile, ARRC retiree Jerry Peters is slated to become the project’s Master Electrician and will guide electrical work with vol-unteer help from ARRC’s Information Technology/Telecommunications Director Joe Carlton and Lo-comotive Electrician Rodney Schumacher. Schum-acher’s wife Carol also volunteers as a grant-writer.

Volunteer opportunities remain says DeBroeck and Durand. Certifi ed welders or boiler makers are now needed as boiler refurbishment gets underway. People are needed to coordinate high-end fund-rais-

A NEW BUILDING SIGN IDENTIFIES THE WORK INSIDE.

BACK WHEELS SIT OUTSIDE OF THE BUILDING.

TOP: JEFF DEBROECK

WORKS INSIDE THE

“BELLY” OF THE

LOCOMOTIVE’S BOILER,

WHERE MOST OF THE

STEAM PIPING HAS BEEN

REMOVED TO FACILITATE

INSPECTION AND REPAIR.

(PHOTO BY STEPHENIE

WHEELER)

BOTTOM: REACHING A

RESTORATION MILESTONE,

ENGINE 557 HAS BEEN

STRIPPED TO REVEAL THE

BOILER. (PHOTO BY JEFF

DEBROECK)

(See “557 restoration update” on next page)


2ND QTR 2013

15LANTERN: ALASKA RAILROAD HISTORY

PAT DURAND: RESTORATION CHAMPION It is not an understatement to say that the

Engine 557 Restoration project would not have moved forward so successfully without Pat Durand, a tireless volunteer, organizer and leader. Durand’s talent for team-leading and passion for railroad his-tory make him an ideal project champion.

At age 70, Durand notes he and the 557 are of the same vintage. Born in Anchorage in 1943, Durand graduated from West High School and attended Alaska Pacifi c University until he received a draft notice. He enlisted as an Order of Battle Analyst in the U.S. Army and was sent to south-east Asia to determine where enemy troops were located, and how well they were equipped and fed. He re-entered the civilian workforce as a sales man-ager for Pictures Inc. (later, Th e Computer Store), tasked with supporting 1400 customers around the state for 24 years until he retired in 1991. Durand says the decades he spent juggling incoming infor-mation and coordinating action serve him well in his role as President of the Engine 557 Restoration Company.

Th is role is also furthered by a life-long curios-ity about railroading in Alaska. For many years, Durand has collected historical photos and docu-ments relating to Alaskan railroad treasures and today these serve as a valuable reference. Th irteen years ago, Durand shared this bygone bounty on www.alaskarails.org (an unoffi cial web site about all things Alaska Railroad) thanks to a partnership with John Combs, who maintains the web site and who is now a member of the Restoration Company board of directors.

“By default, I became an unoffi cial historian of the Alaska Railroad when [then Corporate Aff airs

Vice President] Jim Blasingame and other staff ers would call to test my railroad trivia,” Durand said. “My stash of collected minutia came in handy.”

Not surprisingly, Durand’s railroading inter-est led him to the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, where he volunteered for 19 years. At the mu-seum, Durand built and maintained the rail collection, which included the tender (a steam locomotive fuel car) donated to the 557 restoration project. Fortunately, many of Durand’s previous community ties (through work, hobbies and volun-teering) have translated to in-kind and monetary support for the restoration.

Durand’s profound interest in trains began at age 7, when his grandfather Carl worked winters in the Alaska Rail-road freight house. Durand’s stepfather Bill Stewart also worked for the Alaska Railroad; he retired in 1974 after 35 years as a Firemen and Engineer. Stories shared by these men and the extended railroad fam-ily inspired Pat Durand’s love of model railroading. In turn, Durand has passed this engrossing hobby on to his sons Casey and Shane.

Durand credits his undaunted motivation to the enduring enjoyment of railroads small and large, old and modern. Visitors to the 557 facility often ask him if the restoration task is overwhelming. “Yes it is, until the fi rst volunteer shows up and we go to work,” Durand explained. “Grandpa said, ‘Take care of the small stuff and the big stuff will take care of itself. Big stuff is just a bunch of small stuff .’”

PAT DURAND POINTS

OUT WORK NEEDED TO

BE ACCOMPLISHED ON

THE BIG BACK WHEELS.

(PHOTOS BY

STEPHENIE WHEELER)

RESTORATION EFFORTS

INCLUDE A TENDER

LOCOMOTIVE FUEL CAR.

557 RESTORATION UPDATE ... wood fabrication and milling, boom truck, 6,000-pound forklift, welding supplies and gases, line boring and piston rings, powder coating machine work, sand-blasting, at-cost hardware.

As reported earlier, Rasmuson Founda-tion approved a $350,000 grant that will match cash donations dollar-for-dollar. Cash contributions of $25 or more should be sent to: Alaska Community Foundation, 557 Fund; 3201 C Street, Ste 110, Anchorage, AK 99503.

“I truly do believe that the project is blessed in a special way,” said Durand. “It brings out the best in people, and puts a smile on their face. Everyone I meet wants to see the project succeed. Th ere is a universal appeal to the vision of 557 in steam.”

ing eff orts to generate cash donations. And once the company achieves a separate non-profi t status, Sec-retary / Treasurer Dick Morris will need help with record-keeping. Potential volunteers should send a brief resume to Durand at [email protected]. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

In addition to volunteer labor, donation of in-kind goods and services has been essential. Ex-amples include: 1) Facility preparation: shop door replacement, shop shelving and lockers, electrical upgrades and porta-potties; 2) Business and logistics support: shipping/transportation, logo design, publicity, printing; and 3) Restoration work: asbestos abatement, steel and bolts, cab window glazing and refurbishment, ultrasound use, restora-tion consulting, machine shop equipment, custom

SECOND QUARTER 2013

ALL ABOARDALL ABOARDNEWSLETTER FOR ALASKA RAILROAD EMPLOYEES

Alaska Railroad Corporation

P.O. Box 107500

Anchorage, AK 99510-7500

www.AlaskaRailroad.com

Printed on recycled paper

Member &Suppporter

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDANCHORAGE, AKPERMIT NO. 845

GREAT SHOT! PHOTOS ON THE RAILEMPLOYEE PHOTO SUBMISSIONS ELIGIBLE FOR $200 DRAWING; SEEKING PHOTOS FOR 2013!

Th is crisp image by General Roadmaster Bruce Gough cap-tured a heavy equipment snow blower in action at Grandview during April 2013. Eventually, this sunny summer will give way again to cooler tempera-tures and snow as the seasons change.

Employees are encouraged to submit railroad images for inclusion in the All Aboard newsletter by emailing photo fi les to Stephenie Wheeler at [email protected]. At year’s end, employees who submitted a photo will be entered into a drawing to receive $200 in gift certifi cates. If you have questions, contact Wheeler at (907) 265-2671 or via email at [email protected].

second quarter 2013 newsletter for alaska railroad ... · pdf filesecond quarter 2013...

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