When people see my truck with the antennas and windmill on top, they ask "are you a storm chaser?" Those of us affiliated with the weather service or emergency management prefer "storm spotter." We generally stay in the same geographic area (city or county) and pick a safe vantage point to watch from rather than chasing and getting as close to the action as possible. The chasers for the TV stations take more risk and generally experience more damage to their vehicles.

It's also not just about tornadoes. Most years, lightning and floods each kill more people than tornadoes. Then there is snow, ice, and extreme heat. You might see me driving in the snow testing for safety or blocking a flooded road to keep cars from driving into deep water.

Our reports help the National Weather Service focus warnings where they are needed and tell emergency services where they might soon be needed. If the worst happens, many of us are trained in search & rescue and first aid. We can start taking care of people while waiting for professional help and then transition to support roles after it arrives.

For some it's the excitement of the chase. For me it's the excitement of being able to help people in need.

If you're interested in learning how to help your family and neighbors after a disaster, check out http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/

PS- The big white sticker says "Service to others is the rent we pay for our space here on Earth."

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center set up in Blanchard for McClain County storm victims...

This is an important message from the McClain County Board of Commissioners and the Office of Emergency Management.

In an effort to provide aid to those who sustained damage from the tornadoes of May 24, FEMA has set up a Disaster Recovery Center for Individual losses at the Blanchard Intermediate School Cafeteria, located at 400 North Harris. Office will open Friday June 10, at 9AM. This location will be open Monday through Saturday from 9AM to 7PM and Sunday noon to 6PM.

For those driving into Blanchard on highway 62, there is a traffic light at the Intersection of State Highway 62 and Tyler. The intermediate school parking lot is on the north side of that intersection.

Please bring receipts for work completed, and proof of ownership of the damaged property. McClain County Building Permits will be available at this site, as well.

Thank you for your help in getting this message out to those needing assistance.

(copied from email)

Delta Airlines is not evil and viral videos can be misleading.

So after you get past the headlines it turns out that United and American had the same policy - only 3 bags allowed free in coach class. The military didn't concern itself with the details and told soldiers they could take 4 bags. Four bags were allowed in first class but how many soldiers traveling on orders get to fly first class?

I'm no fan of Delta, but they're getting a rap they don't deserve and as soon as it hit the fan they raised the limit to conform with what is expected.

Someone near and dear to me suggested that Delta could have made an exception for the soldiers. While this is possible with some small companies it doesn't happen in corporate culture. The workers at the ticket counter don't have authority to waive hard-set prices.

Ok, I'm finished. Let the bashing begin.

What's the big deal? Oscar Mayer has been uploading pictures of his weiner for years.

Our baby (2 years old) is finally showing some spots. She might turn into an appaloosa yet.