The Waterways Journal
22 December 2008
The Connie K at Pittsburgh. —Photo by Frank Crusf
Campbell Transportation Company (CTC), Charleroi, Pa., christened the re- named Connie K October 17 in Pittsburgh.
The ceremony was held at the Gateway Clipper Landing in Station Square.
Campbell bought the boat, formerly the Connie Mays, from AEP River Operations in August. It had been owned and operated by Missouri Barge Line since 2005. AEP acquired Missouri Barge Line earlier this year.
Built in 1951 by Dravo for Island Creek Fuel & Transportation Company, the boat measures 108 by 27 feet. It originally had 1,800 hp., but Campbell repowered it with Caterpillar 3500 diesels, upping it to 2,200 hp., and renamed it after the wife of one of CTC's directors, William Karis.
CTC chairman Peter Stephaich opened the ceremony. Karis followed with remarks, and Rev. Samuel Esposito gave the benediction. Connie Karis broke the bottle of champagne.