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Please send your comments to: chris.allen@wbko.com
Scientists Disagree on Consensus
--Wednesday, March 14, 2007
You cannot say there is a consensus on man-made global warming when not all scientists agree...period. The gullability of some people to take this whole debate at face value really makes me scratch my head in disbelief. But there are some that believe that Elvis is still alive, so, there you go.
I prefer to approach this simply...break it down to it's lowest level in an understanding way. While science has brought us many wonderous discoveries, there is still some mystery left to life - and I believe that's on purpose. We're not supposed to know everything, but we are to constantly challenge ourselves to learn all we can. Certainly, there are absolutes. You walk face first into a wall and it's going to hurt. You play with fire and you're likely to get burned and so on. But the more I research this on-going controversy, the more I sense an uncertainty that either raises fear or creates panic.
So, I've been called a global warming "denier"...whoop-dee-do! My posts on the subject have now made it across the world a few times and I've been quoted in many other blogs and articles from groups both "for" and "against" the global warming hype. However, in certain parts of the world, GWD's (global warming deniers) are being socially or even physically threatened. Last week in Florida, school children who chose not to watch Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth" were given a bad grade. An even worse grade was given if the parents didn't choose to come and watch the documentary with their kids. As a homeowner in the United Kingdom you will be punished with fines and possible front-yard protests if you don't "green up" your dwelling with environmentally friendly products.
And now this next item which really gets to the heart and soul of what drives these extreme environmentalists...money.
An article in the Salt Lake Tribune recently suggested that in order to make our world more responsible for global warming and to clean up its act would be to impose a "global carbon tax". Heh...the usual solution to every problem - throw money at it and it will go away. But that's the problem with these kind of "solutions"...the problem seems to never go away and there's always the "need" for more money...it's never enough. The United Nations climate change panel is calling for a 4% global tax on "advanced countries" according to its report. In other words, the UN wants to penalize you and me for living in a country that's as prosperous as America. The article goes on to suggest that imposing this tax might cause us to "sacrifice a few automobile trips, a month's worth of Starbucks and maybe a dozen Big Macs" in order to guilt us into saving our dying planet. As you know, it's all our fault anyhow...and cutting back on the Big Macs would also reduce our "obesity epidemic, how can that hurt?" the article says.
When you break all of this down into its simplest form what you see is an infringement on personal freedoms. Using fear and guilt, these people have succeeded in persuading a lot of people - but not most - to the crazy idea we're killing our planet and ourselves by almost every move we make. It's about control, too. By convincing us the world's atmosphere and climate is out of control, we grow weak at the knees and feel the sweat rolling down our faces in terror as we reach for our checkbook in hopes it will somehow make a difference.
February across the United States was one of the coldest on record while in Kentucky, we survived the 11th coldest February in history. Maybe those poor little polar bears you saw on the internet and on TV being stranded by melting ice (which turned out to be a hoax by the way) maybe should have vacationed in Kentucky last month. I can guarantee you that come June or July when our temperatures start rising into the 80s and 90s, these same people will be flying the global warming flags again in desperation - blowing their "consensus" out of proportion once again. CA
Gore's "Inconvenient" Electric Bill
--Tuesday, February 27, 2007
As predicted, Al Gore won the Oscar for Best Documentary for his "Inconvenient Truth" movie. Congrats to Al. But the former Vice President should also be congratulated for having one of the highest electric bills in the Nashville area!
Check out this piece of news released today from the Tennessee Center for Policy Research...
Al Gore’s Personal Energy Use Is His Own “Inconvenient Truth”
Gore’s home uses more than 20 times the national average
Last night, Al Gore’s global-warming documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, collected an Oscar for best documentary feature, but the Tennessee Center for Policy Research has found that Gore deserves a gold statue for hypocrisy.
Gore’s mansion, located in the posh Belle Meade area of Nashville, consumes more electricity every month than the average American household uses in an entire year, according to the Nashville Electric Service (NES).
In his documentary, the former Vice President calls on Americans to conserve energy by reducing electricity consumption at home.
The average household in America consumes 10,656 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year, according to the Department of Energy. In 2006, Gore devoured nearly 221,000 kWh—more than 20 times the national average.
Last August alone, Gore burned through 22,619 kWh—guzzling more than twice the electricity in one month than an average American family uses in an entire year. As a result of his energy consumption, Gore’s average monthly electric bill topped $1,359.
Since the release of An Inconvenient Truth, Gore’s energy consumption has increased from an average of 16,200 kWh per month in 2005, to 18,400 kWh per month in 2006.
Gore’s extravagant energy use does not stop at his electric bill. Natural gas bills for Gore’s mansion and guest house averaged $1,080 per month last year.
“As the spokesman of choice for the global warming movement, Al Gore has to be willing to walk the walk, not just talk the talk, when it comes to home energy use,” said Tennessee Center for Policy Research President Drew Johnson.
In total, Gore paid nearly $30,000 in combined electricity and natural gas bills for his Nashville estate in 2006.
Look, Mr. Gore makes a lot of money and lives in a big house...so I'm sure there's bound to be lots of energy used there. But until we see him downgrading his lifestyle from "do as I say - not as I do", how can everyday ordinary people ever be convinced to buy into his man-made global warming argument? This revelation does not bode well in helping convince common sense thinkers like you and me to change our ways. Sadly, it's people like Mr. Gore who've made this subject more of a political time bomb than those he labels as "deniers". People like Mr. Gore are supposed to be examples for us to live by. But with his movie, his Oscar and lavish lifestyle, it appears he's only talking the talk and not walking the walk. CA
Still Not Convinced - Part Two
--Friday, February 23, 2007
From my home, I can peer out my window and see I-65 and I notice that the highway department is cutting back the trees so they don’t grow over into traffic. With the millions of vehicles that travel that highway from Chicago to Mobile on a single day…shouldn’t every living thing next to it be dead? And that includes the hundreds of thousands of cows that add their methane to the mix. Just sayin’.
Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined what reaction my latest global warming post was going to bring. Somehow, my little ol’ blog made it clear across the Northern Hemisphere – from California to Canada to the United States Senate! I sometimes forget how quick blogs are picked up and read, especially if it deals with such a (ehm) hot topic as global warming.
Most of the replies from the hometowns we cover in South Central Kentucky were supportive and very much appreciated. But the replies I received from other parts of the country were more ferocious – attacking not only what I had written but attacking many of you with the stereotypical “people from the backwoods of Kentucky” label. One person took the time to pick apart my posting line by line spewing profanity and aggression with every statement I made. He didn’t post his name but I “Googled” his e-mail address and found pictures of him going on a camping trip. You would think that anyone who considers themselves a champion of the environment would be roughing it – right? This guy posted pictures of a rather large Ford van towing a camper. I wonder how many miles a gallon he gets with that van? While this guy’s been busy throwing stones at me he should consider walking to his campsite if he really believes what he says.
For all of you who sent replies condemning me, calling me “stupid” or “uneducated” you did nothing to convince me to come to your side. For the person who read my bio and said “you have no qualifications and no real education” I found a few misspellings in your e-mail…you might want to use spell check next time unless you feel that will keep you on your computer longer and therefore waste more energy. “You’re not even a meteorologist” one other person wrote. No, I am not…nor have I ever passed myself off as one (as stated in earlier posts). But some of these people automatically dismiss my comments as invalid simply because I was not able to take advantage of a higher education. The way I see it, some people are too smart for their own good. As we “simple, backwoods” folk would say “they can’t see the forest for the trees”. The way they look at living is “we can’t see the forest for the clear cutting!” What a charmed life these people must lead.
The attacks were more malicious about my use of God in the debate. I found it overly hypocritical of those opposed to my comments to be so mean-spirited. After all, these are the same people who accuse others of not being as open-minded as they are. “That’s what you Christians always do…” one person wrote “…always playing the God card.” Another stated that “science is proof and you’re merely going on faith – how ignorant are you?” I truly believe their message of fear comes from their lack of recognizing a higher power. The earth is their higher power and they wake up every day in fear that unless we all work together to change our dirty habits we’re all going to suffer the consequences.
I found a few of the responses quite frightening – even threatening. Things like “you should be fired” or “I will see to it that you never post your stupid comments ever again” came with an amount of foreboding. And therein lies the discovery of enlightenment. The man-made-global-warming-climate-change campaign is a campaign of fear.
We’re not becoming a lazy society – my friends, we’re already there. We’ve grown accustomed to thinking less with our hearts and minds and more on computers and “experts”. Through the years, we’ve allowed them to enlighten us with “a better way” than before. We’ve thrown common sense out the window because we’ve convinced ourselves reasonable judgment just doesn’t work anymore. We’ve been told there are no more black and white areas – only gray ones. Absolutes have been absolved. We’ve told ourselves there has to be a better explanation. And why is that? We’ve allowed fear to run our lives. Fear of the unknown. Fear of tomorrow. A new study released today says that our children are now losing sleep because of the fear of global warming. They hear it on the news, they hear their favorite TV characters persuading them to do something “to save the planet”…it goes on and on. They’re afraid their favorite animals are going to die. We’re raising a generation of fear and that worries me more than the hole in the ozone.
So, it’s not about money. Really? What about Richard Branson and his quest to pay someone to find a way to suck all the harmful C02 out of the atmosphere? Or what about Al Gore’s upcoming “Climate Aid” concert? Guess what? Whatever money or awareness they raise will never be enough. They will come back for more. All of this is designed to get your money and then guilt you in to how you live your life. And it’s also about glory. It just so happens Al Gore is up for an Oscar this Sunday for his “Inconvenient Truth” documentary. And he’ll probably win based on Hollywood’s never ending attempt to influence you and how you should live your life.
Take for instance the news that Ikea, a home furnishings store chain seen in other parts of the U.S. will begin charging customers 5-cents for every plastic bag they take home full of Ikea goods. Okay, I am not a scientist – and I don’t have a college degree…but Ikea is charging me 5-cents for an Ikea plastic bag…that Ikea supplies at Ikea stores…which has been filled with Ikea products. And this is all designed to cut back on the amount of plastic that “is choking our planet” claims the Swedish furniture outfitter. The money, Ikea says, will go to American Forests, a conservation group. Again I ask…it’s not about the money?
And just as it was rubbed in my face by another respondent that “NOAA says we’ve had the warmest January on record”…which we did…also comes the news that the first eleven days of February was the 2nd coldest in Kentucky in 112 years. So what does all of this tell us? It says exactly what I said in my last global warming post – the ebb and flow – the flexing of our climate. Just because we had the warmest January on record is not proof of global warming per se. On the other hand, just because we had one of the coldest February’s on record in Kentucky does not mean we’re going into another Ice Age either. I was right about one thing – there were no discussions about global warming or climate change while all the extreme cold and record snows dominated the news for much of this month. Statistics like the one I mentioned about being one of the coldest on record in Kentucky got buried in the media…except for my weather cast of course.
Still, I remain unconvinced. There were some who replied to my post who very much believes that man-made global warming exists and with honorable prose explained their case to me logically and with respect. To those of you who did such, I am keeping your e-mail and will consider the items you presented to me to investigate. But to those of you who only wanted to berate, tear down and pretty much scold me for having the tenacity to state my opinion, your e-mail is in the computer trash can. And, I’m not real schooled on a lot of complicated things, but I did also empty it out of the recycle bin. But y’all come back now…ya’ hear? CA
A Real Heartfelt Mission
--Wednesday, February 14, 2007
I was honored to receive an e-mail from a good friend of mine who - along with many other men and women from South Central Kentucky are serving our country in Iraq to fight the war on terrorism. I want to share his thoughts and photos with you on this Valentine's Day.
Hey Chris,
It has been sometime since we last spoke. The soldiers in the company are doing well and have executed its assigned mission in an outstanding manner. First, we would like to thank all the very kind and generous people in South Central Kentucky for all the care packages and mail we receive daily...many from folks we've never met. Needless to say, a day doesn't go by when we don't think of Warren County and Bowling Green, Kentucky.
I would ask that you please pay a tribute to our families and loved ones on Valentine's Day for us if you would. They are truly all very special and are sincerely missed by all. Enclosed are a few pictures of projects that we have worked on since being in Iraq.
Thanks again,
SFC Doug Pollard
HHC 2nd Battalion 123d Armor RAOC
Iraq 06-08
Consider it done, Doug. I know that each one of these dedicated men and women in uniform would like nothing more than to be back home and celebrate this Valentine's Day with their loved ones. However, in the midst of war and chaos, they want you and their families to know they are dedicated to the mission because folks like you are the support team they desperately count on. And I've witnessed that support first hand from families here who understand the mission and the difference our troops are making over there. As you can tell by the photos, these men and women are proud to serve this country...and I am proud to share their pictures with you. Happy Valentine's Day. CA
Doug labelled this picture "Tigris H20 Mission" of which it appears the 123d helped pump fresh water from the Tigris River to the people of Iraq.
Members of the 123d on patrol in Iraq.
It's not all about combat - part of the 123d's mission is humanitary bringing food and water...and occasionally a smile to the faces of Iraqi children.
Still Not Convinced
--Thursday, February 7, 2007
I suppose now that hundreds of scientists have "taken the question mark away as to whether global climate change is caused by humans" I should just roll over and play dead. After all, they are the scientists - the sacred brain trust of environmentalists everywhere. Their conclusion has been heralded as "we've spoken...you will obey!" (They don't know me very well do they?)
Last week, the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change - a by-product of the United Nations) released the first volume of a study which states that humans are "very likely" the cause of global warming and climate change. But, just because major environmental groups, big media and some politicians are buying this hook, line and sinker doesn't mean as a TV weatherperson I am supposed to act as a puppy on a leash and follow along.
I'm not the only one. The State Climatologist in Oregon feels the same as I...and he's been threatened with his job! "Most of the climate changes we have seen up until now have been a result of natural variations" George Taylor says. George and I concur. The earth moves through ebbs and flows and has always been able to "flex" through time. Gosh, if we hadn't had some sort of global warming years ago, we'd still be living in the Ice Age. Another argument: imagine if environmentalists had existed during the prehistoric era there might have been signs that read "Save the dinosaur!"
To take this one step further - Dr. Heidi Cullen of The Weather Channel's "Climate Code" program stated recently that any sealed meteorologist who doesn't fall in line with the man-made global warming marching orders should have their seals revoked! Well, who is she?? Just because "Dr." is in front of her name doesn't mean we all should sit up and take notice.
Are people supposed to listen to my take on man-made global warming just because I'm on local TV? As I've said before...NO! Research this for yourself. Determine your own opinion. But I will tell you, the ones waving the global warming banner are hoping you'll ignore my stand on this and send them lots of money...because without your funding they tell us "we're all gonna die or burn up in 10 years" or the "damage" that's been done will be irreversible.
My accusers, please pay attention: As I have stated before, not only do I believe global climate change exists - it has always existed. There have been times of global warming and cooling. My biggest argument against putting the primary blame on humans for climate change is that it completely takes God out of the picture. It must have slipped these people's minds that God created the heavens and the earth and has control over what's going on. (Dear Lord Jesus...did I just open a new pandora's box?) Yeah, I said it. Do you honestly believe God would allow humans to destroy the earth He created? Of course, if you don't believe in God and creationism then I can see why you would easily buy into the whole global warming fanfare. I think in many ways that's what this movement is ultimately out to do - rid the mere mention of God in any context. What these environmentalists are actually saying is "we know more than God - we're bigger than God - God is just a fantasy - science is real...He isn't...listen to US!"
I have a huge problem with that.
Now, I am the one being attacked. That's okay, it goes with the job. When you take a stand for something in public life, you're going to have people that disagree with you. The "Go Green Bowling Green: A Partnership for a Sustainable Community" group has sent me an e-mail saying that it "seems very irresponsible (of me) to continue to tell (my) viewers global warming is a myth." First of all, I've never said that. One more time - there is global warming, but there's also global cooling because it is simply a natural process. Their e-mail continues "with all due respect, (scientists) years and years of training and research far outweigh your background."
Ouch.
So, to them, I am irresponsible. But how am I being irresponsible if I advise you to find your own answers about this? Prove conclusively one of us wrong or call it a draw...but either way, settle this in your own mind...and until I see positive proof otherwise, I'm not changing.
Bottom line, I want all of you to know that I do believe in conservation. You'll get a good preachin' from me if I catch you throwing trash along the roadway or leaving a light on in an empty room. I do my best to tell viewers to keep their thermostats set to 68 degrees to save energy year round. I've spent years helping clean up over 90 miles of shoreline trash from Barren River Lake. I am doing my part as everyone should - but with a measure of common sense and not wild hysteria. This earth is bigger than all of us and is in much bigger hands than ours. This "warming" we are seeing is not much different than the warming we saw at the end of the Ice Age - and there weren't quite as many of us around then.
I know this post will bring more fire and brimstone from the "greenies" of Bowling Green and anyone else who feels they are somehow more schooled on the subject than I - and that's fine. I will rest easy tonight knowing I am doing what I can to not waste energy and help keep our community "sustainable" as defined by most of our viewers. The people associated with these extreme groups will never rest easy until they force you into feeling guilty for causing all this.
By the way...this just in to the weather center...62" of snow this morning in Oswego, New York. Minus 30 degree wind chills grip a good portion of the northern half of the nation today. Schools and some businesses are closed in many states. Water pipes have burst causing thousands of dollars in damage to homes. Mass transit buses could not run in some cities because the new low-sulfur diesel fuel they're required to burn now (because these same environmental groups have terrorized the federal government to pass rediculous legislation) congeals in harsh cold and clogs engines.
More notably, the number of deaths from the extreme cold continue to rise in at least five states.
Funny...I haven't heard a word about man-made global climate change since this cold spell took over. But knowing these people like I do, they will eventually find a way to blame the extreme cold on global warming...and it's all your fault. (wink wink) CA
What's New - An Inside Look
--Thursday, February 1, 2007
We're always improving our product. As technology changes, we change and adapt with it. On top of that, we're constantly listening to you and keeping note of the things you like or dislike about our weather coverage. I've been doing weather at WBKO for 20 years now...and during that time, many of your suggestions have turned into real products and services we provide...all customized just for you. Fast Alert - our desktop weather software was one of the first and to this day, is our most popular with over 30,000 FREE downloads to date! WBKO to GO is one of our newest offerings. You now can virtually take the weather with you wherever you go as long as you have access to the internet via your cell phone, Blackberry or other PDA device. With the redesign of our website (any moment now) you'll be able to take advantage of RSS and XML downloads of our weather content direct into your PC or iPod. Thousands of you now depend on the only daily streaming video weathercast in South Central Kentucky called "Watch It Now Weather". It gives you a chance to "watch" the weather on your PC anytime you wish.
Today, we add something new to the mix - and it was a suggestion made by a number of our viewers. A new 24-hour weather forecast phone line has been installed where you can get our First Alert forecast just by dialing 270-467-0373. The First Alert WeatherCall will be updated several times a day with your Hometown forecast. Save the number in your cell phone or PDA so you'll always have it ready when you need to hear the forecast.
As of last night, our fully-automated Polar Report got quite a workout. When kids - and parents around South Central Kentucky want to know about school closings or delays, event cancellations or even business closings, the Polar Report has become the #1 way to find out what's going on. What makes our system so unique is that it is a stand-alone computer system that listens for area school administrators to call and punch in a secret code along with an indication whether they are closing, running late, etc. As soon as the school system makes their fully automated report, it pops up instantly on your TV screen and on our website! No one else has this feature in South Central Kentucky. Therefore, you're going to know the instant your school has either made a decision to close or run on a delayed basis. To make things a little easier, we've moved our Polar Report button right at the top of our forecast section so you can see the list of schools even faster.
By the way...thanks to the hundreds of you who turned out for our weather radio programming sessions! We had three lines of people - around 200 that showed up at The Medical Center's Health & Wellness Expo a few weeks ago to have their radios programmed...and then another 60 or more at the Columbia Hometown IGA store right after that. This Saturday, we'll be at the Greensburg Hometown IGA store on Campbellsville Street from Noon to 2pm central time to program your weather radio - and we'll have a stock of radios for you to purchase there in the store for just $29.99.
Not only that, but many of you have been asking about Weather Spotter's classes. Over the years, we've conducted several hundred of these classes through various rescue squads, volunteer fire departments and for the general public in conjunction with the National Weather Service. We're gearing up for classes again for new spotters and refresher courses for those who've been through the classes in the past. We will post the times and the locations here on our weather page once we get a few more dates booked. If you are a first responder, emergency management coordinator, fire department chief or rescue squad leader, contact me if you'd be interested in hosting a weather spotter's class for the general public in your hometown and we'll try to work it out for you. After all, Spring severe weather season is just around the corner! CA
Winter Weather Protocol
--Thursday, January 25, 2007
What's a "Snow Advisory" and how is it different from a "Winter Storm Watch"? We get asked that a lot this time of year. I suppose it would be easier to explain if we actually had a real winter storm to deal with - but I believe our time is coming. Some of our worst winters (check Shane's blog) have happened in February and March - so we still have a ways to go before saying 'goodbye' to Winter.
I want to take this opportunity to run through the procedures the National Weather Service goes through with the issuance of winter weather products for Kentucky. This may help you along the way as these products are "issued" and then passed along to us to warn you of severe winter weather.
The first thing to remember is the criteria met for issuing certain winter weather products often differs from state to state. In other words, the criteria that has to be met...say to issue a Snow Advisory for a northeastern state is not the same criteria that has to be met for the same advisory in Kentucky. As you know, it doesn't take much snow, ice, sleet or freezing rain around here to cause mass chaos. Such is not the case up no'th. They're better prepared for the onslaught of winter than we are.
Here are some of the winter weather products issued by the National Weather Service in Kentucky and what they mean...
BLOWING/DRIFTING SNOW ADVISORY Used when wind-driven snow intermittently reduces visibility to 1/4 mile or less. Travel may be hampered. Strong winds create blowing snow by picking up old or new snow.
FREEZING RAIN or FREEZING DRIZZLE ADVISORY Generally used only during times when the intensity of freezing rain or drizzle is light and ice accumulations are less than 1/4 inch.
SLEET ADVISORY Issued for expected sleet accumulations of less than 1/2 inch.
SNOW ADVISORY Used when snowfall amounts are below warning criteria, but nonetheless pose a hazard to the public. Issued for average snowfall amounts of less than 4" in a 12 hour period. Forecast amounts would be 1-2", 1-3", 2-4", or around 3".
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY Used when a mixture of precipitation is expected such as snow, sleet, and freezing rain or freezing drizzle, but will not reach warning criteria.
SHORT TERM FORECAST (NOWCAST) A short term forecast designed to give specific, detailed forecast information for the next 1 to 6 hours on a county-by-county basis. Non-severe and advisory information are contained in these forecasts which are routinely issued several times per day, and more often during busy weather periods.
An example...at the beginning of this week, the National Weather Service issued a "Winter Weather Advisory" for some of our northernmost counties. As you might recall, we had a very active system bred from an active subtropical jet that brought some mixed precipitaiton to parts of those areas, but it certainly did not reach "warning" criteria. Going back to the NWS definition of a "Winter Weather Advisory" - expect a mixture of snow, sleet, freezing rain or freezing drizzle but will not reach warning criteria. The advisory was issued as a precautionary measure to make sure that motorists in that area - at a time of the morning when roads might be slick from any precipitation that falls - would hopefully exercise more caution. These advisories are not meant to scare anyone or to raise alarm under false pretenses.
So, we've been through the "advisories"...now, let's go through "watches" and "warnings"...
WINTER STORM WATCH Issued when conditions are favorable for the development of hazardous weather elements, such as heavy snow or sleet, blizzard conditions, significant accumulations of freezing rain or drizzle, or any combination thereof. Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours in advance of an event.
WINTER STORM WARNING Issued when hazardous winter weather conditions are imminent or very likely, including any occurrence or combination of heavy snow, wind-driven snow, sleet, and/or freezing rain/drizzle. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued for up to a 12-hour duration, but can be extended out to 24 hours if the situation warrants. The term "near-blizzard" may be incorporated into the "winter storm warning" for serious situations which fall just short of official blizzard conditions.
BLIZZARD WARNING Issued for winter storms with sustained winds or frequent gusts of 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable falling and/or blowing snow reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile. These conditions are expected to last at least 3 hours.
HEAVY SNOW WARNING Issued for expected snowfall amounts of 4 inches or more in 12 hours or 6 inches or more in 24 hours. Snow is the only precipitation type expected.
ICE STORM WARNING Issued when damaging ice accumulations are expected during freezing rain situations; walking and driving becomes extremely dangerous. Ice accumulations are usually 1/4 inch or greater.
SLEET WARNING Issued when accumulations of sleet covering the ground to a depth of 1/2 inch or more are expected. This is a relatively rare event.
So, how is snow accurately measured around here? For that answer, let's go to the expert...John Gordon, the Meteorologist In Charge at the National Weather Service in Louisville...
Snow depth is measured to the nearest inch. It is measured at 12z UTC, or at 7 am est per NWS Observing Handbook #17 and Federal Meteorological Handbook FMH-1, which is standard for taking observations across the U.S.A. If an observer measures .4 inches, the official measurement is listed as T. Likewise 1.6 inches, is rounded up to 2 inches for the official snow depth measurement. Snowfall is measured to the nearest tenth of an inch on a light colored surface with a snowboard.
In Lexington, snow observations are taken by a “compensated volunteer” and are phoned into the NWS office here in Louisville for dissemination. The observer is required to take these snow observations every 6 hour synoptic period plus midnight when snow has fallen. This observer is located a few miles southwest of the airport.
In Bowling Green Kentucky, another “compensated volunteer” is in place to take snow observations. His only “requirement is to furnish a “daily” snow summary to our office. On a regular basis this observer often phones in additional snow amounts and is highly receptive for requests for even additional information.
In all cases the snow observation programs at all three LCD sites are of the highest quality and the observers are some of the best in their field. In all cases the observers have had extensive training in taking not just snow observations but have been full time observers for many years. Their training dates back to military training in a highly structured observing program, with emphasis on quality control and on site training. This same quality control method continues for the observation program by the Chief ASOS augmenter at SDF.
In the case of the Lexington, our observer not only had training and on-the-job performance through the military, he observed weather for the National Weather Service for years until he retired.
The observer in Bowling Green is a retired FAA employee that also took observations in the Bowling Green area for decades. He was also responsible for training other observers and was the Chief augmenter for the ASOS program until the augmentation program ended a few years ago.
The National Weather Service in Louisville continually monitors all the observations from these sites and talks with the observers during every snow event. Wednesday’s snow event was the type where snow amounts varied dramatically within a few miles from site to site. NWS Ft Knox radar indicated heavier snow “pockets” which did not fall over the “official” observation point at both Louisville and Lexington. We estimate that the radar coverage of the morning snow showers was 40 percent.
Unlike the non-frozen precipitation events where rain amounts can vary significantly in as little as a few hundred feet, snow amounts are visible and easily measured by any citizen who has a capability to properly measure the thickness of an accumulated snowfall. For every convective snow event, snow totals will hardly match from location to location. Only in stratified systems will snow totals be close from location to location and even those will vary some.
The media normally does a superb job of explaining this to the viewing public and we hope that you continue to educate the viewing public of the nature of snow and how it can vary. The public needs to know what is happening at the “official sites” but they also need to know what is happening in their neighborhood and that it might be different.
I appreciate John taking the time to give us that insight.
It is our duty at WBKO to pass along any of the criteria listed here...whether it be an advisory, watch or warning. We're not in the business of second-guessing the National Weather Service. If anything, they've been doing the weather longer than anyone and have these criteria set up for good reason. There have been some attempts by private weather organizations (such as AccuWeather who I've mentioned before) who are out to demoralize and pretty much do away with the National Weather Service altogether. How hypocritical is it that AccuWeather and their afilliates accuse us and the National Weather Service of using "scare tactics" when they are the very same people who told millions living along the northeastern U.S. last year that they were "staring down the barrel of a gun" with what was to be the most destructive hurricane season ever. People panicked - others moved. But nothing happened.
The First Alert Storm Team is proud to say we are partners with the National Weather Service and will continue to foster that partnership. Whether it's through our current weather radio programming campaign or upcoming spotter classes, we appreciate the hard work and years of dedication of the NWS and their service to our community for the safety of our citizens...and we hope you do to! CA
Braggin' On Shane!
--Friday, January 19, 2007
He's going to be embarrassed, but I gotta do this. Our very own Shane Holinde is now the proud recipient of the National Weather Association's Broadcast Seal of Approval...and I couldn't be any prouder of him! Being awarded this seal lets you know that Shane represents the highest level of weather competency and has completed a rigorous battery of tests and evaluations. This is testament to Shane's years of dedication to his work and his passion for weather. It's also another proud feather in Shane's cap as he was recently awarded as Kentucky Weathercaster of the Year by the Associated Press and the Kentucky Broadcasters Association.
I can remember Shane interning here - and then eventually hired on in 2000 to shoot video, edit, run teleprompter, etc. all the while taking classes at WKU. From time to time, Shane would visit us in the weather center and offer some valuable input as to which way the computer forecast models were trending or how he felt the next storm was going to affect us. I was first impressed with his immediate recall of weather history...something he still impresses me with to this day. With laser focus, Shane carefully memorizes patterns and often looks for similarities between storms of the past and those of the present. And nine times out of ten, he nails it! Eventually, Shane was promoted from news to weather and became our evening and nightside weather anchor in 2002.
Shane is my go-to guy. His knowledge of model interpretation, dynamic meteorology and historical climatology is unsurpassed in this region. But most of all, Shane gives it all he's got every single day. One of the best things about my job as Weather Director is to have someone of Shane's calibur to consult with as he maticulously picks apart every single storm. We have a true team of weather professionals here who confide in each other to determine - for you - what we think the forecast will be. There are no grandstanders here...no lonely renegades bloviating how weather "smart" they are...and certainly no one with a sour attitude. Shane knows better than anyone that being a meteorologist is more about showing how much you care rather than showing how much you know.
Beyond all the accolades and awards, Shane is more notably a good friend to all of us. He really does have our best interests at heart when it comes to forecasting. He is passionate about making sure you understand what's going on with the weather...and if you don't understand something, he'll take the time to explain it to you. I've witnessed this for myself as I have watched Shane demonstrate how the weather works to some of your kids at school or seeing the eyes of an intern light up at just how much Shane really knows about the atmosphere.
I hope you will join me, the rest of the First Alert Storm Team and the rest of the Hometown Television family in congratulating Shane on being awarded the NWA Broadcast Seal of Approval. He had our seal of approval long ago! CA
No Guarantees
--Tuesday, January 16, 2007
I've heard it said that with the weather, you can make only one guarantee - there will be weather! Everything else is relative to what Ma Nature decides to do. It's true that today's technology has enabled us to "get it right" more than not...still, we're humbled when things don't quite go as forecast.
The bottom line...there are no guarantees with the weather. Back in the '80s and '90s, a number of TV stations across the country did what was called a "three degree guarantee" or a "five degree guarantee" etc. Oftentimes, the number in the guarantee would coincide with the channel number of the station. Can you imagine a "13-degree guarantee"? That would certainly give us plenty of room to work with (6.5 degrees +/- actual temperature) but wouldn't give the impression that we are accurate.
Recently, a number of those same TV stations have decided to do away with "guarantees" finding that audiences see them as cheap gimmicks. It's true that some of those same stations would donate a certain amount of money to a charitable organization if the forecast temperature did not fall within the guaranteed degree range - which is certainly a nice gesture. But stations are finding that they can gain more credibility by becoming closer partners with charities and investing time into community action. That's why you will see us at most of the charitable events in South Central Kentucky...and it's why we made a commitment years ago to partner with civic organizations to help forward their cause. I personally look at it this way...you have allowed me to live out my dream of being a TV weatherman so, in turn feel I should give something back to the community I am part of.
It's been asked a time or two if we would ever do a "degree guarantee" and the answer is "no"...it's a gimmick.
Over the years, we've decided to stay away from cheap weather gimmicks such as "degree guarantees" and weather pets. It all seems cute and harmless - and I suppose it is - but these tactics are only used by last place TV stations in a desperate attempt to get your attention. In most cases, these are also the same stations who have yet to earn any credibility...and that's the difference. As I have mentioned here before, any TV station can pretty much make any claim they want to - but if they can't back up or substantiate their claim in any credible way, they're not worth your precious time. CA
Back To The Falls
--Monday, January 8, 2007
Sometimes, you just gotta get away...especially during the winter months when you feel like there's nothing else to do. Well, don't just sit there - get out and take a little trip. As you know, my wife Shelia and I love taking an occasional jaunt to Fall Creek Falls State Resort Park in Spencer, Tennessee. This past weekend was our fourth visit there within the past year.
It's a good place to chill - to get away from the office, the phone, the kids, the bills, etc. And if you're one of those people who have a tendency to let the winter months bring you down, Fall Creek Falls has so much to offer that you'll forget what season it is because your senses will be overwhelmed by the beauty. And, as an added bonus, your pocketbook won't hardly feel the difference.
On our trip this past weekend, we not only visited Fall Creek Falls but nearby Burgess Falls which is only about 9 miles south of Cookeville. Shelia and I had not hiked in a while and our visit to Burgess Falls not only afforded us an opportunity to get into better shape - but to take in more breathtaking beauty.
If you were to get a top floor room at Fall Creek Falls Inn, this is the view you'd wake up to each morning!
Fall Creek Falls gorge. I noticed a lot more greenery this time than when we visited last January. Could it be from all the warm weather we've had? Probably...it was around 60 degrees there on Saturday.
Shelia sittin' pretty amongst the rocks that run outward toward the dozens of cliffs that hang over Fall Creek gorge. My back is facing one of those huge drop-offs that plummet several hundred feet. Shelia kept telling me to "back up...back up...a little more...keep going..." (hmm)
I could start a calendar company based on these next few photos. The air is fresh, the majesty is awesome. One of the many views as you tour Fall Creek Falls gorge.
Here is another...
...and another...
...and you can tell I love to take it all in!
Here I am at the first of the three main cascades at Burgess Falls. This first one is only about 100 feet in and is called the "Small Falls".
This is a shot of the "Medium Falls" which is a good half-mile hike into Burgess Falls State Park.
Along the trail which goes up and down along the river you'll find several large rocks that overhang the river's edge. It was raining a little while we were at Burgess Falls and Shelia found refuge under one of those rocks.
More cascades along the way of the Burgess Falls trail.
The "Big Falls" at Burgess Falls State Park. Here we've found another wonderful discovery we can come to just to get away from it all...
...and that makes me one happy camper! CA
What A Great 2006!
--Thursday, December 28, 2006
Well, here we are...just days away from a brand new year. And as we say 'goodbye' to '06 let me just say that I am so thankful - now more than ever - that you continue to place your trust in WBKO and the First Alert Storm Team for your weather coverage. Over the past few years, competition for your viewership has increased tenfold. There are now so many new ways to get your weather information. These days, you can "carry" the weather with you...on your Blackberry or cell phone...in addition to watching it video stream on your computer screen. Technology is a wonderful thing. It has allowed us to become more than just a television station - we're a multi-media content provider offering more ways to get weather information than any other source. The days of waiting for the local newspaper to arrive or even waiting for a newscast for the weather forecast are over. And that lesson was never more clearer to us than in 2006.
Even more telling has been your continued overwhelming approval of our weather product. For 44 years, you have told us that WBKO's weather not only ranks first, but is the best weather in South Central Kentucky. Don't worry, we're not one to rest on our laurels. We proudly wear that distinction as a cloak of honor. We know you have a hundred other choices...but you continue to choose us. We've made a multi-million dollar commitment to bring you the only live, real-time Doppler weather radar - along with the latest in weather computer technology in South Central Kentucky. No one else even comes close. Back that with the commitment each member of the First Alert Storm Team has made to be there night or day - especially when severe weather strikes. In a recent survey we conducted, you told us overwhelmingly that you want us to interrupt programming for severe weather threats and to stay with that coverage until the danger passes. That...along with our total team approach during severe weather events sets us apart from other weather outlets who can only talk about the storm that has already passed. Those are the same people that claim we're only out to scare you for ratings. Desperately, they are only "barking" up the wrong tree.
We know we have to earn your trust every day...and we don't take that lightly. And as we approach 2007, we're always looking to weed out what doesn't work and search for new content that you demand. A lot of new things are in the works as we speak as you will see an even greater concentration on making the weather work for you than ever before. We've learned that weather matters to you all the time...and not just during times of severe weather. Our successful weather radio campaign is only a small start to what will become an overall outreach campaign that will touch each community in South Central Kentucky. In 2007, one thing will become clear...not only will we ask you to stay connected to us - but more than ever, we'll be connecting with you on a level never before realized in this area.
You all have been great to us this year by being upfront in letting us know what you like and don't like. We're not only listening...we're doing something about it! Stay connected as your number one source for weather in South Central Kentucky shines brighter than ever...thanks to you! God bless you all in 2007! CA
My Christmas Wish
--Thursday, December 21, 2006
Like the grand old song "...it's been said, many times, many ways..." I wanted to add my personal thoughts about Christmas. I truly hope that you get what you want this year - but more than that, I hope that you have taken more time in giving than receiving. It seems the older I get, the better that lesson is learned. Truth be known, I get a little uncomfortable receiving gifts. Don't get me wrong...I enjoy getting gifts, but I get a much bigger thrill giving someone a gift than getting one.
It disturbs me that not enough of that logic is understood by our young people. In this day and age of instant gratification, a growing number of our youth are frankly spoiled rotten! It's that "where's mine" attitude that really irritates me. You see it enough on TV and in Hollywood - young men and women who are supposed to be role models for our kids. But what's a kid to think when he or she has been told it's okay to act like a fool and ignore the consequences? Sure, it's nothing new, but it seems that in recent times a new generation of young people are approaching life with a "I only care about me" attitude.
Add to that the confusion over Christmas itself. And I suppose this is where I am showing my age. Forgive me for being a traditionalist. It's a shock to my system - and to those like me from the same generation. Why all the fuss? Celebrate what you want to celebrate in your own way - I'm cool with that. But everyone should be reminded that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ. Last I checked, America is still a free country - we still have the right to celebrate Christmas, call it Christmas, put up a Christmas tree, put up Christmas decorations and recognize that Jesus Christ was born. The day someone tells me I can't celebrate like that or even speak of it, that's it for me. While we've grown accustomed lately of making sure we don't offend anyone, those that celebrate Christmas have become the most offended. (Hey ACLU...why aren't you defending my rights?)
Sorry folks...sometimes I just can't help myself. (Breathe deep).
But here's the cool thing, people like you and I will keep going. There are enough of us that appreciate that blessed event long ago to make sure the next generation...and the next...and the next continue to understand what it means to all mankind. And to me, that's the greatest gift of all. From my family - and the rest of the First Alert Storm Team, I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas! CA
And A Good Time Was Had By All (part deux)
--Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Last week, I shared some pictures from our first round of hometown Christmas parades. This week, it was another great weather day for parades - albeit a tad chillier - and we all had a great time. Our second round took us to Tompkinsville, Edmonton and Burkesville.
The gang's all here! Your AM Kentucky crew before the Tompkinsville parade.
Again with the antlers. Everyone insisted I wear them again. Far be it from me to "buck" a trend. (Get it? Buck? Antlers? DOH!)
Leachman Buick GMC set us up with another great ride with a fully-loaded 2007 GMC Sierra pickup...sweet!
Did you know? The famous Alpine Mountain View Resort in Burkesville has reopened after being recently renovated. It is such an historic piece of South Central Kentucky's culture and I was happy to see it's still thriving. If you want to learn more about accomodations there, go to Alpine Motel.com
A look at the line of entries in the Edmonton parade - including our great radio partners WOVO which was blasting "North Pole Radio" at 105.3 FM.
They all said it was a game...you get locked out of the truck and you have to dance for 5 seconds before you can get back in. So I busted a little move - and I may have hurt something else...my pride!
As the sun sets before the start of the Burkesville parade, we're ready to go for one last ride until next year. Thanks again to everyone who took the time to wave, wish us a Merry Christmas and to tell us how much you love your Hometown Television family. CA
And A Good Time Was Had By All!
--Wednesday, December 6, 2006
The first round of hometown Christmas parades are done and we had a blast! Thank you all for making us feel so welcome and putting us in the proper Christmas spirit. For this post, I thought I would share a few pictures we took along the way.
Here we are getting our truck decorated for the Beaver Dam parade. Many thanks to Leachman Buick-GMC for the ride. I hope a truck like this is in my stocking this year!
Our group in Beaver Dam included Whitney Brown, producer Sam Shrawder, Shane Holinde and my wife Shelia.
A great crowd for an early Saturday morning Christmas parade in downtown Beaver Dam!
We had some additional Team 13 help when we got in line at the Morgantown parade - Matt Stephens, Jeff Woods, Kyle Edelen, James Brandenburg and Tamara Evans.
Another great crowd for the Morgantown Christmas parade!
We thought it would be cool to take the Rochester Ferry across the Green River as we left Morgantown to get to our next parade in Greenville...and what a cool ride it was! Our thanks to Bess - the ferry operator for getting us across so smoothly!
How beautiful! This incredible light display was hand-built by Greenville resident Dilford Holmes. We were amazed at the incredible detail and the over 50,000 lights for everyone to share. We thought it was a great honor to not only be the Grand Marshal's of the Greenville parade, but to begin the parade in front of Dilford's home.
Okay...I was talked into it...the antlers, that is. Whitney Brown suggested we all wear them - and they later turned out to be a hit with the crowd!
Whitney and Sam both donning their antlers...which looked "cute" to the girls...
...yet humiliating for us guys - right Shane?
We'll have more pictures coming next week from parades we'll be in this Saturday. CA
Let's Go For A Spin!
--8:22am Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Tomorrow is the official end of the Atlantic Tropical Season for 2006. Some would say "what tropical season?" True, there wasn't much of one. But that's a relief for those still recovering along the Gulf coast - a little egg on the face to those who predicted gloom and doom.
The major media outlets bought it all...hook, line and sinker. Of course, they thrive on putting a little scare in viewers - hoping they will stay hooked into their coverage - then later say "it wasn't as bad as experts predicted." (sigh) As I have discussed in previous posts it's easy to fall prey to these tactics, especially if the "experts" make their case so convincingly. Case in point: AccuWeather made it widely known back in March that a "weather disaster of historic proportions" could strike the northeastern US coast. They also stated that the season would be "more active than normal". AccuWeather also used worrisome wording like "the Northeast is staring down the barrel of a gun". They went even further to exclaim "the likelihood of a major hurricane making landfall in the Northeast is not a question of if but when." (twiddle thumbs here)
Overdone? Overhyped? I would like to give them the benefit of the doubt and say they were going on the data they had at the time and made a call. That would be fine if it were just that, but when you make statements like "staring down the barrel of a gun", you're going for broke. In this case, AccuWeather unabashedly raised the fears of millions of people - perhaps so they would be rewarded for getting it right - or maybe in hopes those millions would be scared enough to sign up for their products and services.
As the Atlantic Tropical season ends, AccuWeather claims that "a major hurricane has not made landfall in the northeastern US in nearly 60 years" and their early prediction at least made some along the coast more aware of the possible danger just waiting to happen. Certainly, it could happen - maybe next season...who knows? As I've said before, no one really knows. Don't listen to the hype. It has a way of spinning out of control. CA
We Never Get Tired Of Giving "Thanks!"
--9:14am Wednesday, November 22, 2006
I never take my job for granted. I realize I've been given a tremendous gift being able to greet you all every morning with a smile and a laugh or two. I just want to thank you all again for what has been a tremendous year of change and growth for the First Alert Storm Team. Your loyalty and support keeps us at the top of the heap which is a nice place to be. But we're not one to rest on our laurels - we're always challenging ourselves to be the best and to continue offering more weather information than anyone else. Weather matters all the time and not just when severe storms hit. We realize you have a number of other weather choices in this vast multi-media universe...but you continue to choose WBKO over the rest. Again, we humbly thank you!
May God's blessings be upon you, your family and friends as we celebrate this Thanksgiving. Let us not forget from whom all blessings flow! CA
Questions I Get Asked All The Time
--3:02pm Tuesday, November 14, 2006
I got an e-mail from a student named Paul Shadowen who attends Glasgow Middle School. As you will read below, he is studying meteorology (the science of weather and atmosphere) in their virtual high school class. I wanted to take the opportunity of Paul's e-mail to not only answer his questions, but to answer some of yours. Many of the items Paul asks me are much like the questions I get asked all the time - so here goes...
Dear Chris Allen,
My name is Paul Shadowen and I'm a student at Glasgow Middle school. This semester I have been in a Virtual High School class. The class that I chose to take was meteorology. So far I'm doing well in the class with an average of 98%. One of the many assignments for the last few weeks of the class is to interview a meteorologist. I would greatly appreciate it if you would take a moment to answer the ten questions below, and e-mail me your answers. Thank you so much for your time!
Sincerely,
Paul Shadowen
1. What motivated you to become a Meteorologist?
As a child, I was terrified of storms. After years of tormenting myself over dark clouds, thunder and lightning, I decided to find out what made the weather work and why it frightened me so much. The more I studied the atmosphere, the more fascinated I became of weather and my fear eventually went away.
2. What is a typical day like for you?
I get up each weekday morning around 2am - get ready and head to the weather center sometime after 3am. The next two and a half hours, I am pouring over computer forecast models and updating the forecast and graphics from the night before. I co-host "AM Kentucky" for 90 minutes and then spend another two hours updating the weather during "Good Morning America". After that, I work on various other projects, attend meetings or visit schools. My day usually ends around 11 or 12 Noon. Each day, I am thankful for the opportunity that I get to do this!
3. What classes did you take in order to prepare for a career in meteorology?
I actually did not attend college. It was certainly my intent to attend, but due to a family tragedy at the time, I didn't get to go. I am pretty much self taught. Along the way, I've had the priviledge of being taught by people with the National Weather Service and am always continuing my education by attending classes on an on-going basis. I am one of the few sealed broadcast members of the National Weather Association without a college degree who passed the exams...and have been recertified twice since being awarded the seal in 1999. So, I am always training...always learning. That never stops!
4. How many years of college does it take to earn a degree in meteorology?
It's best to earn a bachelor's (4 year) degree in meteorology, but WKU offers an associate (Met Tech) degree locally and is a great place to get a start. Other schools offer more training. It just depends on how far you want to go. Go after a good mix of environmental sciences, physics, calculus, geology and geography as well.
5. Which college did you attend for your degree in meteorology?
As stated above, I did not attend college - but I got in this business in a time a degree was preferred but not required. However, with today's changing technology, it is highly recommended you go on to college to get your degree.
6. What colleges would you suggests others to attend?
WKU, Ohio State, Texas A&M, Southern Alabama, Oklahoma State and Perdue. There a good number of meteorology schools out there. It's best to hop on the internet and search them out for the school that will fit your needs best.
7. If a person is interested in the overall field of meteorology what can they specialize in rather than broadcast meteorology?
Many large corporations now have staff meteorologists to help keep the company's cost low by introducing and managing energy conservation and to provide forecasts that might impact the output of their product. You don't have to be on TV just because you are a meteorologist. (Frankly, some meteorologists shouldn't be on TV as they tend to get too technical trying to explain the weather. A good meteorologist will not only have the instinct to forecast the weather, but will know how to deliver their message with a humble attitude.)
8. How much "behind the scenes" preparation goes into a meteorologist's broadcast?
As mentioned above, a lot of time is spent each day, several times a day going over the ever changing weather, updating graphics and rendering maps. We also take careful time here to present the weather in a way our viewers can "take it with them" and "use it" throughout the day. Weather can be very technical...so our job is to make the complex easy to understand.
9. What is your favorite experience from being a meteorologist thus far?
Knowing that I am serving the public with the weather information they need and being there during times of severe weather - doing my part to protect and inform. I feel very honored being in this role now for 20 years at WBKO...and knowing that throughout that time the folks of South Central Kentucky have put their faith and trust in us above all others.
10. If you were given the chance to report on any weather phenomena what would it be and why?
Once...just once, I'd like to do a live report from where a hurricane is making impact...from a safe distance, of course - a very safe distance! CA
Behind The Scenes at the CMA's
--12:39pm Thursday, November 9, 2006
Wow! That about sums it up. Being on the red carpet at the 40th Annual Country Music Awards in Nashville has to be one of the highlights of my career. I hope by now you've either seen our "Countdown To Country" special when it aired live before the awards show Monday night - or you've caught it right here on our website. As many of you know, I was born and raised in Nashville and Country music has always been part of my life. I keep up with the artists, the songs, the songwriters, the producers, the pickers, the radio stations...they've all been a part of my life. When I was asked if I would like to co-host this show, I said "yes" without hesitation. I was so honored to be with Whitney Ray and our crew - together bringing a show of this magnitude back home to South Central Kentucky. ABC, the CMA and Gray Television have this agreement now for the next several years to do the "Coundown To Country" specials...so we're already looking forward to next year.
In the meantime, I wanted to share a few behind the scenes pictures with you from the show. Keep in mind, I didn't have much time to grab a camera - and at other times I had to pass the camera off to our floor producer Lauren Hanson to take a few - but she was busy herself giving us time cues and being our communication lifeline to the satellite truck. Many thanks to her, Nathan Wilburn our cameraman (shoulder shooting the whole time), Director Tony Budnick, Coordinator Tom Bennett, Live Shot Producer Ben Crum...and the entire production staff in Bowling Green at WBKO. We weren't the only station airing the special - there were several other TV stations across the country carrying the show at the same time.
Whitney and Lauren going over the rundown of the show a few hours before the main event.
Winner of the Female Vocalist and Horizon Award Carrie Underwood in her $800,000 diamond studded dress!
Even though she was all decked out for the red carpet, Carrie was probably the most down-to-earth to talk with.
Whitney Ray is such a class act! She had the stars eating out of the palm of her hands.
Even though we didn't get a chance to speak with her, LeAnn Rimes was close by doing an interview for CMT.
We almost had an interview with "Deperate Housewive's" Eva Longoria. She was 10 feet away from us in the ABC.com booth and was to come to our booth next. However, her publicist said she had to be seated for the awards show as a presenter and had to leave. She did brush by me...oh well.
The infamous "red carpet". This is a view down our side of the red carpet room filled with lights, cameras and hundreds of stars!
Hannah Montana and Robby! Actually it is Miley Cyrus and her real dad Billy Ray Cyrus on the run...(past us) to be seated for the show.
Props to the crew for a job well done! Time to break everything down after a successful countdown show as the BIG show begins in the Gaylord Entertainment Center. Here's to next year!
A Retreat Treat!
--8:28am Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Last weekend was one of the best I've shared with my wife Shelia in a long time. We were invited to participate in a marriage retreat at Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer, Tennessee - one of my favorite places in the entire world. As you will see, the scenery was awesome as the Fall colors were in full swing. I know it's in Tennessee, but Fall Creek Falls is one of the nicest locations on earth to take your special loved one for a weekend getaway. Some of you might recall Shelia and I going there for the first time back in January - and even amidst the cold and gray was the most beautiful sights we've ever seen. If you'd like to learn more about Fall Creek Falls State Park or information about Hillvue's Marriage Ministry program, just e-mail me.
I've got it good! Just me and my baby in front of the falls. It doesn't get much better than this.
This is looking out of our room's patio door to the right early Saturday morning. Could this be heaven on earth?
Shelia standing near our room at the back of Fall Creek Falls Inn.
This is the "falls" of Fall Creek Falls State Park. This is the biggest of the six waterfalls and cascades you'll see here. It plunges 256 feet and is the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies!
Shelia and I at the falls overlook.
Part of our marriage ministry team and couples attending the retreat as we gaze upon the blazing fall colors.
This is one of the overlooks that you'll see as you drive through the "gulf" that surrounds Fall Creek Falls State Park. Can you make out the image of a cross and the face of a woman in the rocks?
Here's a closer view. Do you see the vegetation making the form of a cross on the left side of the cliff? Also, stare at the crevices on the right side of the cliff. Can you make out the eyes, nose, mouth and hair in the image of a woman? Spooky, huh?
The hills are alive with the sound of Fall's colors! Take a deep breath and soak it all in.
This is another one of the many scenic "stops" as you travel through the park. While we were there, a wedding was taking place where you see people standing in the lower right. What a setting for a wedding!
Just a swingin'! One of the many swinging bridges that are draped across the falls in the park. The ladies weren't too happy with us men simulating an earthquake as they crossed!
Here's a view of the same swinging bridge shot from below the falls.
After a day full of hiking and taking in all the beautiful sights, we all gathered around a big bonfire, sang songs and ate smores. I felt like a kid again.
What better way to end an exhausting day than with the one you love. All in all, one of the best weekend's of my life. Thanks to everyone on Hillvue's marriage ministry team...all the couples attending...and most of all - my wife for some quality time I will never forget. CA
A Warmer Winter?
--7:11am Wednesday, October 11, 2006
At least that's what they say..."they" being the scientists at the NOAA Climate Prediction Center. It is true that we are entering a weak El Nino period (a warming of the waters over the tropical Pacific) which usually means a little warmer - and drier Winter for us in the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. However, we've had what was forecast as a "weak" El Nino season before with much harsher results. What usually gets us is an active southern jetstream steering storm systems our direction...and sometimes a little further north than anticipated.
You're welcome to read the latest NOAA Winter Weather outlook here.
If you've read my previous posts or heard me rant on TV, you know that I do not put my entire trust in science. Note that I said "entire" trust. Granted I take a lot of...(ehm)...heat...from science-types who feel I should not question their prognosis. Why not question it? May I refer you to their 2006 "above average" hurricane season prediction? Bottom line...science doesn't know it all - but neither do I.
To that end, I am a little more suspect of the "experts" predictions. The track of the southern jetstream always leaves me a little uneasy about how "bad" our Winters will be. I've been doing weather here long enough to know that any southern-tracking storm system with the right amount of moisture will usually bring us some trouble. If the temperatures are cold enough, it could be ice or snow. If they're warm enough, it could even be severe storms.
As you can see by this map, NOAA thinks most of the nation will see warmer than normal temperatures with our area seeing "equal chances" of above or below normal readings.
Is it global warming? (laughing) Let's not go there. This pattern reflects what is typical of a weak El Nino season. Average temperatures for Bowling Green from December through February range from near the upper 40s to near 60 degrees...relatively mild.
NOAA's precipitation outlook shows a bullseye of "drier than normal" chances for precipitation directly over our area. They're saying that the weak El Nino is likely to result in fewer cold air outbreaks. However, that southern branch of the jetstream has me a little leary. As I have stated before, we've had numerous outbreaks of heavier snows, ice storms and even severe storms and tornadoes anytime that southern jet makes a move closer to our region.
So, I am going to leave the door a little more open with this one. If we go with very little interaction with the southern jet, then NOAA's prediction just might pan out. However, any fluctuation in the jet to the north...head's up!
By the way...NOAA will revise their Winter outlook two more times...October 19th and November 16th. We'll check back then to see how things are progressing. CA
Hurricane Hype: R.I.P.
--4:42am Thursday, October 5, 2006
Okay...I know the Atlantic hurricane season isn't officially over for another 57 days, but it appears this tropical season has been mostly a "yawner".
Remember I said don't buy into the hype? That goes for just about anything - but moreso it applies to this year's Atlantic hurricane season. And you know, after what we saw with Katrina, Rita and the like, that's a good thing. Millions of people needed that breather to recover...and as you can see by some of the Gulf Coast pictures in my last post, they'll need that break for some time to come.
I blame the media the most about the hype. As I have stated before, many of the scientists know what they're talking about and do a pretty good job trying to get a handle on what they feel will be an outcome. However, if you think about it in more simple terms, it really is just throwing numbers out there...isn't it? Added to that was the hype surrounding what affect man-made global warming had to do with it. Fact is, it appears we're back into a weak El Nino pattern which helped cool the waters of the Atlantic a little more than expected. In addition, wind shear has helped chop the tops off any developing thunderstorms that might eventually form into powerful hurricanes.
My curiosity wonders...if they couldn't know El Nino was coming then how could they have predicted an "above average" season of hurricanes? And doesn't this put a huge dent in the trust of those who have been waving the global warming flag this whole time?
Everything in life goes in cycles...and so does the weather.
Granted, we've had a few strong hurricanes in the Atlantic this year but they affected mostly the fishes. In June we had Tropical Storm Alberto that affected Florida and went back into the Atlantic. Tropical Storm Beryl formed off the North Carolina coast and minimally affected parts of the New England states in July. Three tropical cyclones...Tropical Storm Chris, Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Ernesto...developed in the Atlantic Basin during August. The number of tropical storms in August was close to average but the occurance of only one hurricane is below average. At it's worst, Ernesto brought 70 mph winds to coastal South Carolina with the same kind of impact a severe thunderstorm would bring here.
Four hurricanes...Florence, Gordon, Helene and Isaac developed in the Atlantic Basin during September. Gordon and Helene became major hurricanes (category 3 or above). September, so far, has been the only month with near normal levels of tropical activity this year. Now, we still have the Atlantic hurricane season in full swing until November 30th...but with water temperatures continually cooling and upper air patterns in transition, it's doubtful there will be any significant tropical activity from here on out.
I, for one, am grateful the experts were wrong. Have you noticed in a lot of cases experts are usually wrong about things? How many times have you heard reports say "the economy last month turned out better than experts predicted"? Remember when the experts said we should just get used to $3 a gallon gasoline? I think a lot of these experts have a "plan for the worst - hope for the best" mentality...which is okay in its purest sense. It's only when the media goes looking for the "hype factor" in a story and people start buying into it do things go awry.
I am not an expert on anything, but it really doesn't take an expert to know not to buy into anyone's hype...no matter how good (or bad) it sounds. Common sense always wins the day.
Stay connected here as I am working to post more pictures from our vacation to the Gulf Coast and around the southeast. CA
Vacation Pics - Pt. 1
--7:17am Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Well, this has taken a lot longer than I had hoped. Many of you have seen some of my pictures from the Gulf Coast on "AM Kentucky" and I had wanted to post them all here at once. However, that's a much bigger task than I anticipated. So, starting today...I will post as many pictures as I can over the next few days, so check here daily.
As many of you know, my wife Shelia and I have relatives that live in southern Mississippi and were affected by hurricane Katrina last August. We returned to that area one year later and the following are some of the snapshots we took in an area we refer to as our second home.
This was a prominent funeral home located on US Hwy 90 in Gulfport. Notice how the entire bottom of the building was swept away.
Here I am in front of the Katrina memorial that was constructed by the crew from "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition". It's made up of hundreds of memorabilia collected before and during the storm and will forever stand as a monument of that terrible day in August 2005.
Amidst the devastation, life is returning along the Gulf Coast. As you head down US Hwy 90 east from Gulfport to Biloxi you see lots of new high-rise apartments and hotels going up.
This once was a prestigious condo only a few hundred feet from the beachfront. While it was built on concrete risers, you can see that the condo itself could not withstand the nearly 30-foot storm surge brought in by Katrina.
This is President Jefferson Davis' southern home, known as "Beauvoir". The native Kentuckian lived here in Biloxi until his death. Shelia and I had the opportunity to tour this home last year before Katrina struck, and I'm glad we did. This and the adjacent Presidential Library were almost totally destroyed. However, plans are for a total restoration of the home and library which could take years to complete.
That's all I have time for today. Like I said, check back here daily to see if I've added more pics. CA
Vacation's Almost Over
--9:05am Friday, September 15, 2006
Just a quick update here to let you know I will return on Monday. What a great vacation! I have tons of pictures to let you see when I update my blog next week. Many of the photos are from the Biloxi/Gulfport area devastated by hurricane Katrina last year. Shelia and I drove some 3,000 miles in the last two weeks making this huge circle from BG to Biloxi...to Destin...to Savannah...to Charleston (to see our buddy Brian Goode) to Gatlinburg and back home.
Thanks to the hundreds of you who clogged my e-mail box wanting to know when I'd return and wanting to see pictures of the trip. There are so many pictures we'll probably show some on "AM Kentucky" and post some here in the "Corner".
In the meantime, make a note right now to head to your nearest Houchens IGA or Crossroads IGA store and pick up one of our new MIdland All-Hazards Weather Radio for just $29.95. You know you need one and it would make the perfect Christmas gift for that special someone you know would feel better having a weather radio nearby to warn them of severe weather and other hazards. We have a special display with the radios set up at each location...and if you don't see it, ask the store manager when they will arrive at that location.
See y'all on Monday! CA
Brandon's Back! (and other changes)
--9:20am Monday, August 28, 2006
I am pleased to announce that effective today, Brandon Lokits...who did a wonderful job pinch-hitting while Matt Stephens was recovering from facial reconstruction surgery...will become the fourth member of the First Alert Storm Team! As you may have read in one of my earlier posts, Brandon got married on July 29th and was looking at several weather opportunities at stations across the country. But after looking around, Brandon decided that Bowling Green would be the place that he and his new wife would settle down and start their new lives together.
The addition of Brandon Lokits to our team not only solidifies our continuing commitment to be South Central Kentucky's only trusted 24-hour weather leader, but it will help us look toward the future as WBKO undergoes unprecedented growth. As many of you know, we're only days away from the launch of WBKO's new FOX affiliate (at digital channel 13.2) and the new CW network (at digital channel 13.3). With the addition of these new networks comes the need for additional weather coverage. Plans are in the works to eventually spread our vast weather resources...including First Alert Live Doppler Radar...to our new television ventures. In the short term, Brandon will become the new weather anchor for WBKO's "Midday Live" starting today. In addition, he will also anchor the weather as "Midday Live" is rebroadcast one hour later on WBKO-FOX (digital channel 13.2) starting September 5th.
What does this mean for me? Well, it finally opens up some time for me to work on various station projects, attend meetings and schedule school talks a little earlier in the day. In addition, I now have a full team of meteorologists working 'round the clock to bring you this areas most accurate weather...bar none! Not to worry, this change is something I've been wanting for some time...and even though I will no longer be on Midday, I will still be at my regular post on "AM Kentucky" with Courtney each and every morning starting at 5:30.
These changes will allow us to better implement some exciting new weather products and services never before offered to South Central Kentucky. For instance, in the coming days, we will be launching a major effort to supply All-hazards weather radios to you and to various community and civic organizations throughout the region. We have partnered with area Houchens Markets to distribute these weather radios at a reduced cost to you...with the added convenience of purchasing these units while you shop for groceries! In addition, for every 10 units sold, Houchens and WBKO will supply...for FREE...these weather alert radios to various community and civic organizations throughout South Central Kentucky. Be watching WBKO and stay connected to WBKO.com for more information concerning this unprecedented effort to keep you and your family safe and infomred during severe weather, chemical spills, Homeland Security alerts and AMBER Alert messages.
As always, we're doing all of this for you. You've told us you want more weather content made available on a 24-hour basis using all the media forms available...TV, radio, newspaper, internet and wireless devices. We're doing that now and taking it one step higher. We're always on the search to provide you with the most accessible weather content in whatever form you desire. On top of that, we're always working to keep our | | |
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