RIDE Magazine – March 2015 - VRE
RIDE Magazine March 2015 1
DESTINATIONfor a LIFETIMEReason #3Homegrown family fun.There’s a lot to love about our new Shores Club—now underway at Potomac Shores.With 13,000 square feet of private family adventure, indoors and outdoors, it’s aboutto be the biggest and best social and rec center around. With a state-of-the-art fitnesscenter. Two swimming pools. An event lawn. And community gardens. It’s resort-styleliving only 30 miles from DC. And it’s everything you dreamed it would be.Luxury homesfrom the mid 400sCALL OR VISIT THE GREETING HOUSE: 855-808-60512175 Potomac River Blvd., Potomac Shores, VA 22026 PotomacShores.comGPS address: Harbor Station Parkway, Dumfries, VA 22026Features and products vary by community. Price, offers, financing and availability are subject to change without notice.
CONTENTSRIDE MAGAZINE MARCH 20150203 2015 NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOMFESTIVAL LAUNCHES KEOLIS GENERAL MANAGERMEET GREGG BAXTER040607 VRE BY THE NUMBERS READY FOR SPRING WEATHER SPOTLIGHT ON VREMEET PHIL LEONARD09 RAIL TIME PUZZLESGet Noticed withVRE AdvertisingVRE carries 20,000 passengersevery work day and 70 percentof our riders have an annualhousehold income of over 100,000.Reach our ridership withadvertising opportunitieson our platforms, in our trainsand through our award-winningRIDE Magazine.For more information go towww.vre.org/advertising orcontact advertising@vre.orgor (703) 838-5417FROM THECEOVRE’S FOCUS ON CUSTOMER SERVICEAs I travel around NorthernVirginia and the Washingtonregion, I receive lots ofcomments and feedbackabout VRE. I am very proud of oursafety record, on-time performancethat is consistently above 90 percentand high customer satisfaction. Wewill continue to focus on customerservice and ensuring that ourpassengers have a safe and reliableexperience on VRE.Customer service and yourfeedback are very important, VREoffers numerous ways for passengersto interact and engage with us.We operate a call center that fieldsservice inquiries as well as complaintsand commendations. Inquiries mayalso be submitted by fax, mail, emailor through our website. Go towww.vre.org/feedback for all theways to contact us. VRE engages onsocial media and utilizes Facebookand Twitter to provide timely servicenotices, news and updates. Ridersare also able to provide comments,concerns and inquiries through oursocial media channels.On the first Wednesday ofeach month, VRE’s managementhosts an online forum to answerpassenger questions and respondto comments and suggestions. Theforums are archived at www.vre.org so that those who were unableto participate can reference thequestions and answers. Additionally,every spring, our managementheads to destination stations for our“Meet the Management” events. Onthose dates, key VRE managers andDOUG ALLENChief Executive OfficerI make ourselves available for face‐to‐face questions and answers fromour riders.Whenever major policy and/or service modifications are beingconsidered, VRE conducts publichearings. The hearings are heldthroughout the service area and areconducted at various times to ensuremaximum opportunity for publicparticipation. For those unable toattend, a comment period is alsoadvertised to allow input via mail,email and by phone. Recently, wehosted public hearings to solicitcomments related to a proposed 4percent fare increase and 2 increaseto the Amtrak Step-Up ticket.Finally, we perform annualpassenger surveys to measurecustomer satisfaction as well as gatherorigin‐destinationinformationfrom our riders. The results of thesurveys are made available online.This provides a transparent processand also allows our staff and othersto conduct analyses of our surveyresponses.We value our passengers andwork hard to make sure that VREis truly “A BETTER WAY. ABETTER LIFE.” Thanks for ridingVRE and please keep telling uswhat’s on your mind.Editor in Chief: Alexis RiceCover Photograph by Mike SchallerMagazine Design by Pulsar AdvertisingCopyright 2015 by Virginia Railway Express.All rights reserved. RIDE Magazine is a publicationof the Virginia Railway Express, 1500 King Street,Suite 202, Alexandria, VA 22314. It has a distributionof approximately 10,000 copies monthly. Forcomments, stories, suggestions, questions oradvertising, please contact ride@vre.org.PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINEDOUG ALLENChief Executive OfficerVirginia Railway ExpressFollow UsLike UsRIDE Magazine March 2015 1
LOCAL EVENTS2015 NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL LAUNCHESAND CELEBRATES “OUR NATURAL WORLD”The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the nation’s greatest springtimecelebration. The Festival showcases Washington to the world and welcomesmore than 1.5 million attendees each year. In 2015, the Festival programcelebrates “Our Natural World.” Visitors are invited to step into spring anddelight in trees and gardens, enjoying their environmental benefits and naturalbeauty.Attendees will enjoy four anchoring weekends and daily events throughoutthe DC metro region. All events are free and open to the public unless otherwisenoted.Key Dates Include: Thursday, March 19 – Pink Tie Party fundraiser at the Ronald ReaganBuilding and International Trade Center (ticketed event) Saturday, March 21 – Official Opening Ceremony at Warner Theatre(free tickets required) Saturday, March 28 – Blossom Kite Festival on the Washington Monumentgrounds Saturday, April 4 – Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival at theSouthwest Waterfront Saturday, April 11 – National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade (tickets 20grandstand seating, standing room along the route, free) Saturday, April 11 – Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival producedby The Japan-America Society of Washington DC (tickets 10 withchildren 12 and under free) Sunday, April 12 – The NEW Anacostia River FestivalOngoing Programming: Free “Step-Into-Spring” fitness programming at the Washington Monument Experience “City in Bloom” – Created to visually unite the region withlighting, vibrant signage and blossom decals Enjoy free cultural performances on the stage at the Festival WelcomeCenter at the Tidal Basin More than 40 participating organizations offer official events dailyVisit www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org events for a full scheduleAlexandria’s24th Annual St.Patrick’s Day ParadeSaturday, March 7, 2015Classic car show begins at9 AM and parade begins 12:30 PMOld Town Alexandria, VAAlexandria celebrates St. Patrick’s Daywith a day of family fun events, includinga classic car show and a parade with aroute on King Street between Alfred andLee streets. www.visitalexandriava.comFredericksburg’s 132nd AnnualSt. Patrick’s Day ParadeSaturday, March 14, 2015, 11 AM–4 PMSpotsylvania County Business Park3300 Dill Smith Dr., Fredericksburg, VAFredericksburg’s St. Patrick’s Day Paradeincludes fire trucks, classic cars, high schoolmarching band, community organizations,Irish dancers, horses, military equipment andlocal pageant winners. www.visitfred.com16th Annual Greater Manassas’sSt. Patrick’s Day ParadeSaturday, March 14, 2015, 11 AMHistoric Downtown Manassas, VAManassas celebrates St. Patrick’s Day witha community parade featuring Irish dancegroups, pipe and drum groups, the MarineCorps Color Guard and other area groupsand organizations. The parade viewing standis located at the end of the parade route atWest and Center streets.www.stpatparade.netShakespeare inThe ‘BurgMarch 27–29p Photo by National Cherry Blossom Festival 2 RIDE Magazine March 2015300 WestWashington St.,Middleburg, VAShakespeare in the‘Burg is an annualfestival in Middleburgwith performancesby the AmericanShakespeare Center actors of“Hamlet” and “Much Ado About Nothing.”In addition, the festival will host workshopsin stagecraft and acting plus a m
KEOLIS GENERAL MANAGERMEET GREGG BAXTERBy Jennifer BuskeBidding on an established commuterrail service in the nation’s capitalseemed like the perfect place to breakinto the American market.So, when the opportunity arose in 2009to compete for the VRE contract, KeolisGeneral Manager Gregg Baxter said theyjumped at the chance to operate VRE.“VRE is a very high-profile commuterservice and very important people areriding the trains,” Baxter said. “We felt[this] was a good agency for us to partnerwith and one we could work together withto help achieve their objectives.”Keolis Rail Services America officiallytook over the operation and maintenance ofVRE trains in 2010. After almost five years,the French-based company has proved tobe the right fit for VRE.“We are very happy with the service,”Baxter said. “Since we’ve taken over, wehave run a very safe operation Ourcustomer service scores are evident of thehard work our [crews] put in and we arehappy to see ridership grow and on-timeperformance improve.”Baxter was recruited by Keolis in 2009to help submit a bid for VRE’s operationand maintenance contract. A graduate ofthe University of Maryland, Baxter hasa long history with the transportationindustry.After receiving an undergraduate degreein transportation logistics and a master’sdegree from the University of Denver inintermodal transportation management,Baxter went to work for Amtrak for 16years. He then spent five years with the SanJoaquin Regional Rail Commission beforejoining Keolis.While passengers do not see the Keolisemployees until 5:05 a.m. when the firsttrain leaves the station, Baxter said there isa dedicated group of 30 people who workthroughout the night to ensure service runssmoothly each day.The Keolis staff has also created anew operating reporting system that waspreviously “unheard of in the industry”that allows for transparency and sharingof information, Baxter said. The systemtracks everything from performance andridership trends to mileage and equipmentmaintenance.Keolis and VRE have a strongpartnership and share a similar vision forthe commuter rail system’s future, Baxtersaid.“We want to be a partner with themfor at least the next 15 years,” Baxter said.“I think Keolis and VRE are on the samepage; eventually it is all about frequency.We run 30 trains a day and it sounds likea lot, but if we could run midday service,I think potential ridership would then gothrough the roof.”Besides continuing a partnership withVRE, Keolis has been able to expandinto other markets across the country.In July, the company began operatingthe Massachusetts Bay TransportationAuthority, which is the biggest contractedrail operation system in the U.S. Baxtersaid, adding that he can partially credit thatwin to VRE.“VRE was an essential ingredient forus to win that and be successful,” he said.“We’re very pleased with our position inthe US and want to expand into the lightrail, intercity and state-supported marketsin the next couple years.”A Virginia resident, Baxter, howeverplans to stay on the VRE contract. Whennot on the job, he enjoys golfing, skiingand spending time with his wife and18-year-old son.GREGG BAXTERKeolis General Manager“VRE was a very high-profilecommuter service and veryimportant people were ridingthe trains We felt [this] wasa good agency for us to partnerwith and one we could worktogether with to help achievetheir objectives.RIDE Magazine March 2015 3
VRE UPDATEVRE BY THE NUMBERSAlot of time and energy goes into VRE deliveringhigh quality commuter rail service. Trains do not runthemselves and it is an intensive daily process to movecommuters throughout the region. At VRE, we prideourselves on safety, customer service, on-time performanceand commitment to improving our environment and reducingtraffic congestion.1992YEAR VRE WENT INTO SERVICE92%30DAILY VRE TRAINS53%2014 ON-TIME PERFORMANCERIDERS USING VRE FOR OVER FOUR YEARS2014 TOTAL RIDERSHIP2014 AVERAGE DAILY RIDERSHIP4,948,236 19,8724 RIDE Magazine March 2015
89.9 10VRE UPDATETH1,163MILES OF TRACK VRE OPERATES ONVRE TRAIN TALK ALERTS ISSUED IN 2014LARGESTBY RIDERSHIP FOR A U.S.COMMUTER RAILROAD SYSTEM22,717 MILLION 10018SUBSCRIBERS TO TRAIN TALK ALERTSSTATIONS SERVED BY VREVEHICLES MILES REMOVED FROM OURHIGHWAYS ANNUALLY BY USING VRE50,000 METRIC TONS OF CARBON DIOXIDEREDUCED FROM OUR AIR BY RIDING VRERIDE Magazine March 2015 5
VRE UPDATEREADY FOR SPRING WEATHERAt VRE safety is paramount! If severe weather is in theforecast, please keep in mind that your commute maybe affected.Our host railroads have policies in place that deal withsevere weather. If conditions are favorable for flash flooding,CSX and Norfolk Southern require that passenger trains do notexceed 40 mph, as slowing down trains enables the engineersto more safely navigate through areas with limited visibility.Should deep water cover the tracks, or if a section of track iswashed out, a slower rate of speed will allow the engineer toslow or stop the train. The slower speed will mean both theFredericksburg and Manassas line trains will be approximately30-45 minutes late to their final destination.Other delays associated with severe weather can be causedby fallen trees. Tracks covered by fallen trees will be clearedas quickly as possible; but traffic and other conditions couldhamper response time.Keep up-to-date with information from VRE throughTrain Talk e-mail alerts and through VRE’s Twitterand Facebook pages. Ultimately, VRE’s bottom line is safetyand it is important we are prepared for spring’s sudden andsevere weather.JUST IN CASE.A Free Ride Home For Those Who Ride the Commuter TrainREGISTER NOW FOR GUARANTEED RIDE HOMEcommuterconnections.org800.745.RIDE* some restrictions applyCITY-STYLE SPACEOwn a New Garage Town with 100% Financing Availableand All Closing Costs Paid!*OLDE TOWNE SQUARE SPACES FROM THE LOW 300’S FEATURE: Urban-inspired Exteriors with Modern & Spacious Designs Just a Short Walk to the VRE Near the Quaint Shops and Eateries in Historic Manassas Why Rent? Buy Now For Extra Tax Savings!*703.764.5447New Model Now Open:9407 Zebedee Street, Manassas, VA 20110w w w. Va n M e t r e H o m e s . c o mNew & Now onthe App Store!*Offer and prices subject to change without notice. For specifics on community savings, see Sales Manager for details. 3/2015.VAN-A-14-264 OTS RideVRE 7'5x4'82c APPROVED.indd 16 RIDE Magazine March 20152/20/2015 11:19:52 AM
SPOTLIGHT ON VREMEET PHIL LEONARDPhil Leonard comes to work every day with one very simple,yet exceedingly important mission – maintaining a fleet oflocomotives and passenger cars that are safe, efficient, andcomfortable for both passengers and crew. As AssistantSuperintendent of Equipment for VRE, his ultimate goal is to“make sure everybody is happy and safe, from employees all theway to customers.”“My job is to maintain VRE’s fleet the rightway, and make sure everything is doneprofessionally and safely.”Leonard began working for VRE in March 2012. He bringswith him more than 25 years of rail industry experience. He workedfor 23 years in the emissions and service departments developingTier 2 emissions packages for the locomotive manufacturer MotivePower. He was involved in creating a patent on diesel enginecooling systems. His transition to a new role in maintenancecarries greater responsibility, but is a position well-suited for him.“This role in the Maintenance Department is a lot moreresponsibility as far as maintaining thefleet, keeping our customers happy andkeeping the rolling stock going,” hestated.To make sure these goals aremet, Leonard puts strong emphasis on creating a safe workingenvironment. He is adamant about keeping his maintenanceteam well-trained; ensuring they are qualified and compliant withFederal Railroad Administration safety standards.“My job is to maintain VRE’s fleet the right way, and makesure everything is done professionally and safely,” he said. He feelsmost rewarded when watching VRE trains roll by on-time, and intip-top condition. That, he says, keeps everybody happy!Born and raised in Idaho, Leonard grew up with a passionfor fishing and hunting. When he’s not working the rails, you’llprobably find him on the lake with fishing rod in hand. Annualtrips to his native state are always a priority.Leonard epitomizes the values and culture of VRE, alwaysputting safety and the needs of passengers and crew first.“My biggest concern is making sure the trains are runningon-time, keeping everything safe and ready for the nextday’s service.”COMING THIS SUMMERJUNE 26 JULY 5, 2015 FAIRFAX2015.COMRIDE Magazine March 2015 7
Imagine your home, totally organized!Custom Closets, Garage CabinetsHome Offices, Pantries, Laundriesand Hobby Rooms40% Off PlusFree Installation40% off any order of 1000 or more.30% off any order of 700 or more.Not valid with any other offer. Freeinstallation with any complete unit orderof 500 or more. With incoming order,at time of purchase only.Call for a free in home design consultation and -330-8382Follow usLicensed #VA 2705068445 #MD 131690 #DC 420214000077 and InsuredCOURTESYREMINDERSWHEN RIDING ON THE VRE we ask thatyou make every effort to be courteous toyour fellow passengers. Below are a fewcourtesy reminders:Please stow your belongings in theoverhead compartments or on the floorspace beneath your feet. Seats are forpeople, not for your stuff.Please be aware of your surroundings.Not everyone wants to hear long or loudconversations, swearing or loud shrieksof laughter. Enjoy your ride, but let othersenjoy theirs too.Please refrain from using chewing tobaccoonboard the trains.8 RIDE Magazine March 2015PUZZLE SOLUTIONS2014 All Rights Reserved. Closets by Design, Inc.
RAIL TIME PUZZLESSUDOKURIDE Magazine March 2015 9
ETHBEONVRE.ORG/SAFETYFESAESID1 HOLD THEHANDRAILS2 WEAR SENSIBLESHOES3 WATCH YOUR STEP4 DON’T RUSH GETTINGON AND OFF THE TRAIN
a classic car show and a parade with a route on King Street between Alfred and Lee streets. www.visitalexandriava.com Fredericksburg’s 132nd Annual . St. Patrick’s Day Parade Saturday, March 14, 2015, 11 . AM–4 PM Spotsylvania County Business Park 3300 Dill Smith Dr., Fredericksburg, VA. Fredericksburg’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
trains that are not on VRE’s schedule. These trains operate predominantly during peak periods in the prevailing peak period direction. The proposed 2020/2040 future VRE operating plan includes reverse peak service and was developed based on future plans outlined in the VRE Strategic Plan 2004-2025 Phase 2 Report. This included
3: Week Commencing - 24 June Build 3 week am 75min ride inc. intervals 30 - 45min recovery ride 75min ride inc. intervals Recovery 30 - 45min stretch 1:45 hour intense ride 2.5 hour endurance ride pm 30min stretch Strength Program Recovery massage 4: Week Commencing - 1 July Maximum Week am 90min ride inc. intervals 30 - 45min recovery ride .
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From The Leadership Team The Leadership Team is considering forming a Ride Travel Team. The Ride Travel Team would visit schools that we are unable to travel to during our regular Ride. The Ride Travel Team would ride in the Fall during the week when school is in session. A
The Ride Of The Valkyries Wagner The Ride Of The Valkyries Wagner sheet music has been read 13116 times. The ride of the valkyries wagner arrangement is for Advanced level. The music notes has 6 preview and last read at 2021-11-04 10:08:48. [ Read More ] Wagners Ride Of The Valkyries Wagners Ride Of T
O Saviour meek, pursue your road, With palms and scattered garments strowed. 2 Ride on, ride on in majesty! In lowly pomp ride on to die, O Christ, your triumphs now begin O’er captive death and conquered sin. 5 Ride on, ride on in majesty! In lowly pomp ride on to die. Bow your meek head to mortal pain, Th
Ride Science, the Sally Ride Elementary School in Germantown, Maryland [6], Janelle Monáe's song "Sally Ride" [7], the research vessel RV Sally Ride in the US Navy [8], and a place in the "Women of NASA" Lego set [9]. Engage: 10 Minutes . The Students will get a brief overview of Sally Ride's Life by watching a 7-minute video done .
National factors – political issues, level and type of government support for business, taxation, the economy, e.g. level of employment, inflation, exchange rates, cost of loans Local factors – location of business, requirements for resources, e.g. premises, staff, equipment, location of suppliers, competitors and customers
