2009 SKYWARN Training in Lansing, Michgan

The 2009 Storm Season is upon us and it was time to refresh our memories at our annual SKYWARN Training Day, held at the West Campus of Lansing Community College. This venue has been VERY good to us, allowing us to hold our training here each year and even feeding us lunch!

On hand for this year's event was our NEW Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Jamie R. Bielinski and WLNS TV-6 Meteorologist, Rob Dale (N8GSK). Jamie provided the training we get each year from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and it took the better part of two hours to complete. But anyone in attendance can tell you, it was far from boring! Jamie seemed a natural at her task, mixing in a little personal humor and some stories of her own Storm Chasing.

At the conclusion of Bielinski's program, the good folks at LCC West showed us tremendous hospitality, with lunch for each attendee. The feast consisted of Kettle Cooked chips, shaved Roast Beef, Ham or Turkey for sandwiches, Potato Salad, Pasta Salad and fresh cookies for dessert. Talk about a nice meal!

With full bellies and great anticipation, we welcomed Rob Dale to the podium. Most of the local folks know Rob, but it didn't take long for those who did not know Rob to warm up to him. He's one of those speakers that captivate your attention, because they are real. Rob doesn't put on airs and he doesn't pretend to know something if he doesn't fully understand it. It's one more reason we applauded Rob, as he announced his new position in Eaton County. It's great to know that while he's leaving local TV, he is not leaving us!

Another special guest in attendance for the event was Kaz Fujita, son of the late Ted Fujita (creator of the F-Scale). Kaz and I have been friends since 1998, when we first met at 'Science Day at the Mall', held at Meridian Mall in Okemos.

Our heartfelt thanks to LCC-West, Tom Shaver (KC8NJK), Trent Atkins, Rob, Jamie, Kaz and especially to Ben Holcomb (WX8BEN) for getting things together for us. There were many others (far too many to list here) who deserve recognition and we appreciate all YOU have done, as well. THANKS TEAM! To see more photos of our SKYWARN Training, please visit Our SKYWARN Photo Album