May 1997 Newsletter

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National Weather Association Newsletter
No. 97-4                                                           April 1997

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

"Operational meteorologists providing value-added products and services to a diverse customer base."

After a 24-hour reschedule due to severe weather, GOES-K was successfully launched from Cape Canaveral Air Station at 0149 EDT on 25 April 97 and was renamed GOES 10 upon achieving a successful insertion into earth orbit. As we approach the beginning of another hurricane season (and as we deal with year-round severe weather events), it is extremely gratifying to have three available weather satellites with such tremendous capabilities. I am continually amazed at the high quality of the satellite imagery and extremely thankful we avoided the "No GOES" situation we faced just three years ago!

Two days prior to the successful GOES launch, I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a GOES-K Education Symposium hosted by NOAA and Florida EXPLORES! (a Florida State University sponsored educational organization). Other presenters at the symposium included Dr. Susan Zevin (NWS Deputy Director for Operations), Ron Gird (NWS Satellite and Spaceflight Program Leader), Dr. Gerald Dittberner (NOAA GOES Program Manager) and Dennis Chesters (NASA GOES Project Scientist). The attendees included high school and college students and teachers, who were very attentive and hungry for details on weather forecasting capabilities. I thank those NWA members who routinely participate in such educational events and encourage all NWA members to actively seek out similar opportunities. These events provide an excellent forum for presenting our operational forecasting success stories and are of incalculable benefit to us as a professional association.

Additionally, there are two upcoming opportunities to broadcast your success stories - the 1997 NWA Annual Meeting to be held 19-24 October 97 in Reno NV and the 1997 NWA Awards program. First, John Jannuzzi and David Billingsley are this year's Annual Meeting Program Chairs. They have established 1 July as the deadline for one-page abstract submissions. If you are a prospective presenter and have any questions about the Annual Meeting, please call John or David at (208) 334-9861. Second, Andy Horvitz continues his outstanding performance as our Awards Committee Chair. His deadline for awards submissions is also 1 July. More details on the NWA Awards program are contained in this issue of the newsletter. I request your help in acknowledging the superb accomplishments of our members and others who richly deserve recognition from the NWA. I know the award nominations take time, but the payoff well exceeds the investment!

You are probably already aware of the Secretary of Commerce's 17 April 97 announcement of his decision to maintain last year's level of funded positions at the National Hurricane Center, Storm Prediction Center and Aviation Weather Center throughout this fiscal year. We will still send the Secretary a letter addressing our association's on-going concerns. However, I am modifying my first draft to include some very pertinent and insightful suggestions from NWA officers, councilors and committee chairpersons. Look for a copy of the final version in next month's newsletter.

I have received some excellent suggestions from NWA members for improving our effectiveness as an association and will present those recommendations to our officers and councilors at our mid-year NWA Council meeting. Please keep your suggestions and concerns coming in. My new e-mail address is: Tom Adang@aol.com.

DATES TO REMEMBER

15 June - Submission of Undergraduate Meteorological Satellite Applications papers due -- see new award in January Newsletter.

1 July - Abstracts due for the 19-24 October 1997 NWA Annual Meeting, Reno, Nevada. See Call for Papers on page 4.

15 July - Nominations due for the NWA Annual Awards. See page 3.

NEW HOME PAGE & DOMAIN NAME

The NWA World Wide Web home page was out of commission for a few weeks due to unforeseen difficulties. Thanks to the NWA Home Page Committee, we are back on-line reconstructing with a new provider and a short domain name address that should be easier to remember. Check out -- http://www.nwas.org and tell the committee how you like it. In addition, please help publicize the new address and update links to it.

HISTORICAL NOTE --WAKE ISLAND NWS OFFICE CLOSES

Member Christine Alex sent the following message:

NOUS01 KWBC 081907 MESSAGE 97-16

WAKE ISLAND WSO 91245 PWAK WILL CLOSE AFTER THE 0000 UTC UPPER AIR OBSERVATION ON 14 MAY 1997. SURFACE OBSERVATIONS IN FM12 SYNOP CODE AND UPPER AIR OBSERVATIONS WILL NO LONGER BE AVAILABLE AFTER THAT TIME. SURFACE OBSERVATIONS IN FM15 METAR WILL BE AVAILABLE DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS ONLY. TERMINAL FORECASTS IN FM51 TAF PREPARED BY HONOLULU FORECAST OFFICE WILL BE AVAILABLE ON AN AS REQUIRED BASIS.

Jim Weyman, NWS Honolulu sent information received from Leloyd Acosta that according to their records on file, the first official Weather Bureau pibal was taken on 1 July 1949 at the Quonset building which was also the terminal building for Wake Island at that time. Rawindsondes began in February 1950 when they began using an army manually tracking unit. Most of their station documentation didn't take place until they moved to the new terminal building in 1963 which housed them until closing. Although we don't have anything on file to show exactly when they opened, it's safe to say late 1940s.

The US Navy radiosonde units were operating at Wake Island in the early 1940s until the Island's capture according to Charles C. Bates & John F. Fuller in their book, America's Weather Warriors 1814-1985.

Pan Am meteorologists pioneered weather observing and forecasting at Midway, Wake, Guam and the Philippines for air travel in the Pacific. Pan Am's personnel even played a role in breaking Japanese codes according to Robert Daley, 1980: Juan Trippe and his Pan Am Empire: An American Saga.
- Exec. Dir.

FEATURED NWA COUNCIL MEMBER

RUTH AIKEN has almost 23 years experience in operational meteorology specializing in synoptic and mesoscale forecasting. She is also interested in fire weather forecasting and aviation weather support. She began her career in the National Weather Service as an Intern at the NWS Forecast Office in Columbia, SC in 1975. She transferred to her current location, the NWS Forecast Office in Raleigh NC, in 1980 as a Journeyman Forecaster and moved up to Lead Forecaster and WSR-88D Focal Point. The NWSFO at Raleigh obtained the new radar in Feb '94 and Ruth is responsible for all WSR-88D programming, upkeep and development. She ensures the staff is properly trained on the WSR-88D procedures and keeps all updated on new developments, techniques, and software and hardware changes.

She obtained a B.S. degree in Mathematics and did post graduate work in Meteorology at The Pennsylvania State University in the Graduate Scientist Program. She has also taken post graduate courses at North Carolina State University and completed numerous in-house courses at the NWS Training Center in Kansas City and NEXRAD courses in Norman, OK. She has assisted with numerous local studies in severe and winter weather forecasting.

The NWS Raleigh office operates under a team concept program and as forecast team leader (non-severe), she oversees and aids in development of all non-severe forecast procedures and techniques. She gives presentations to local schools and colleges on weather forecasting and career opportunities. She also participates in special programs designed to encourage more women and minorities in math and science such as: Women in Math, Math Mentoring, Science Teacher Partnership, Get Set and Go, Sonya Konvelesky Day and Aviation Weather School. Ms. Aiken has also made weather videos for the NC Museum of Life and Science educational division, aviation week posters for high schools around the country and a video presentation for the NC State School of Human Resources. She appreciates your confidence in voting her into a 2-year councilor term. She would appreciate hearing comments and/or suggestions for improvement from members regarding any NWA policy, program or activity.

NWA Newsletter (ISSN 0271-1044)
Co-Editors: Larry Burch and Eli Jacks
Publisher: Kevin Lavin, Executive Director
Published monthly by the National Weather Association,
6704 Wolke Court, Montgomery, Alabama 36116-2134.
Tel/FAX: (334) 213-0388
E-mail: NatWeaAsoc@aol.com
Home page: http://www.nwas.org

Submit newsletter items directly to: Editor NWA Newsletter, Eli Jacks, NOAA/NWS W/OM21, 1325 East West Hwy Room 13125, Silver Spring MD 20910; e-mail: Elliott.Jacks@noaa.gov or to: Larry Burch, NOAA/NWSFO, 2242 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City UT 84116; e-mail: Larry.Burch@noaa.gov. Material received by the 5th will be considered for that month's issue.

Members receive the monthly NWA Newsletter and quarterly National Weather Digest as part of their regular, student or corporate membership privileges. Contact the NWA for membership information. Newsletter subscriptions are available at $18.00 per year plus extra shipping costs outside USA. Single copies are $1.50.

MEMBER NEWS

Welcome to our newest corporate member, Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., headquarted in Houston, Texas. Kyle R. Tupin is their point of contact. Learn more about the company at: http://www.univ-wea.com

1997 NWA AWARDS PROGRAM
* 20th Anniversary *

The National Weather Association began its award program in 1977 to provide deserved recognition to those individuals involved in operational activities. The Awards Program recognizes the professional as well as the volunteer. The emphasis is on the people who perform the day-to-day jobs of providing meteorological information and support services to the public. In 1996, two new award categories were created; an Aviation Meteorology Award and a NWA Local Chapter Award. In addition, the nominations for the Operational Achievement Award were separated into two sections: Individual and Group. The Special Award nomination was modified and the Radio-TV Broadcaster of the Year Award was merged with the Media Award and will now be named Broadcaster of the Year Award. These changes will hopefully generate increased interest in the Awards Program and provide the organization greater flexibility in recognizing the accomplishments of many involved in operational meteorology (hydrology, broadcast meteorology, et al.), as well as increasing the visibility of the NWA.

Operational Achievement Individual Award: The award is presented to an NWA member who has made a significant contribution to operational meteorology or related field. It can be for a forecast of a significant weather event. It could also be for the outstanding work of an individual over a defined period of time.

Operational Achievement Group Award: The award is presented to more than one individual (a team) for a specific event or for displaying excellence over a defined period of time. At minimum, a majority of the group (greater than 50%) must be NWA members.

Member of the Year Award: This award is presented to an NWA member who has made significant contributions to the organization over a long period of time.

Research Achievement Award: This award is presented to an NWA member whose research has made a significant contribution to operational meteorology.

Walter J. Bennett Public Service Award: This award is presented to an individual or organization directly assisting the meteorological community in providing weather-related information to the public. Individuals and organizations in the meteorological profession are ineligible for this award.

Public Education Award: This award is presented to an individual or organization providing significant contributions to increase the public's weather awareness.

Broadcaster of the Year: This award is presented to an NWA member who as a Radio/TV weathercaster or other member of the media has significantly contributed to the development and presentation of weather information to the public.

Aviation Meteorology Award: This award is presented to an individual or group to recognize significant contributions to aviation meteorology such as: impacts of operational forecasts on aviation operations and advances in aviation meteorology including research in detection and forecasting of aviation hazards.

Local Chapter Award: This award is presented to a Local Chapter of the NWA whose activities have significantly increased awareness of the weather and of the NWA in their local area.

Special Award: This award is presented to an individual or a group for recognition of unique events or extraordinary accomplishments which significantly contributed to operational meteorology.

Narrative nominations with additional comments or endorsements should be forwarded by 15 July 1997, to:

NWA Awards Committee
Andrew Horvitz, Chairperson
6704 Wolke Court
Montgomery, AL 36116-2134

Although there is no rigid time requirement for the awards, the Committee prefers that the accomplishment, if not on a continuing basis, occur within 18 months prior to the nominations. Presentation of the Awards will be made at the NWA Annual Meeting banquet, 22 October 1997, in Reno, Nevada.
- Andy Horvitz

NWA SOL HIRSCH EDUCATION FUND GRANTS

The NWA Education Committee needs help from all members to spread the word to teachers in grades K-12 that $500 grants are available annually from the NWA to help improve the education of their students in meteorology. The teachers selected will be able to use the funds to take an accredited course in atmospheric sciences, attend a relevant workshop or conference, or purchase scientific materials or equipment for the classroom. Three grants or more are possible in 1997 thanks to the many members who have contributed to this fund in honor of Sol Hirsch who retired in 1992 after being the NWA Executive Director for 11 years. Applications can be obtained from the NWA Education Committee, 3809 Clarks Lane Suite 007, Baltimore MD 21215 or from the NWA office. Completed applications are due to the Education Committee by 1 August 1997.
- Sol Hirsch, Education Committee Chair

Call for Papers NWA Annual Meeting

The National Weather Association's twenty-second Annual Meeting will be held 19-24 October 1997 at the Harrah's Casino Hotel Reno and adjoining Hampton Inn.

The Program Committee welcomes papers on a wide variety of topics relating to OPERATIONAL meteorology, hydrology, weather broadcasting and related activities. SUCCESS STORIES in using new technologies and in tailoring (adding value to) weather support products to fit user needs are most welcome.

The meeting agenda will consist of oral presentations, poster sessions, training workshops, exhibits and panel discussions. Special training workshop sessions oriented to media weathercasters will be scheduled for 19 October.

Individual authors and agencies wishing to make presentations or lead workshops should please submit one page abstracts by 1 July 1997 to the Program Co-Chairpersons, John Jannuzzi and David Billingsley at:

National Weather Service Forecast Office
3833 South Development Ave Bldg 3807
Boise, Idaho 83705-5354
Tel: (208) 334-9861
FAX: (208) 334-1660
e-mail: John.Jannuzzi@noaa.gov

Submissions by e-mail are encouraged; submissions by regular mail should include a copy on floppy disk. Please indicate your desire for poster, oral or workshop session and include a mailing address, phone number, e-mail address, and a list of required audio-visual equipment. A special effort will be made to accommodate all submissions. Notification of abstract acceptance will be sent to all respondents by 15 August 1997.

To assist with the Weathercaster Workshop program, please contact: John McLaughlin, KCCI-TV, Des Moines IA, (515) 247-888; e-mail: johnmc49@ecity.net

For information on exhibits, contact the NWA office Tel/FAX: (334) 213-0388; NatWeaAsoc@aol.com

A block of rooms has been reserved at the Hampton Inn at Harrah's Reno, 175 East Second Street, Reno, Nevada. NWA attendee rates for a deluxe double or deluxe king room are: $69 for Saturday night and $55 Sunday through Friday nights. Rates include complimentary breakfast and airport shuttle. Call in reservations to 1-800-367-9544 by 19 September 1997 and mention the National Weather Association Annual Meeting (Group Meeting).

GULF COAST WORKSHOP - Summary

Irv Watson, the Science and Operations Officer (SOO) at NWSO Tallahassee reports that Southern Region NWS offices were well represented at the US Air Force Gulf Coast Workshop held at Eglin AFB, Florida, 3-5 March 1997. Problem areas shared by NWS and USAF forecasters that were discussed included winter weather, fog, winter and summer convection, heavy precipitation, lightning, modeling, tropical weather and hurricanes.

Ten presentations were given by participants representing NWS offices, or their collabortive studies with Florida State University and COMET. Alan Johnson (NWSFO New Orleans Area) discussed his sea fog prediction method and flash flood watch and QPF checklist techniques. Alan Gerard (NWSFO Jackson) covered an elevated thunderstorm and hail event that occurred in January. Brad Regan discussed NWSFO Jackson's use of the WSR-88D to accurately forecast a gust front during the SkyParade Labor Day air show in 1995. Rusty Pfost (Jackson SOO) discussed a technique for predicting wet microbursts during the summer in the Lower Mississippi Valley. The latter was a popular topic during the three-day workshop, with several other presentations dealing with predicting wet microburst winds.

Bob Carle (NWSO Tallahassee service hydrologist) and Chris Herbster (COMET post-doc at Tallahassee) discussed precipitation forecasts for Tropical Storm Josephine using the MM5 model and WSR-88D data. Irv Watson (Tallahassee SOO) showed his eight-year Southeast US lightning climatology. He also discussed ways to divide the data according to local wind regimes. Irv showed examples of the RAMSDIS visible satellite climatology developed by Ken Gould (NWSO Tallahassee) and a regional lightning climatology by Parks Camp (FSU). Eric Lenning (FSU/CITM) presented work he is conducting on the WSR-88D hail detection algorithm along the northeast Gulf Coast.

The USAF invitation to participate in this workshop was eagerly accepted, and it provided an additional opportunity for NWS participants to "talk shop" with their DoD counterparts. In particular, it provided a means to discuss coordination among the NWS offices and military neighbors in their county warning areas.

Lt Col Dave Rust, 46th Weather Squadron at Eglin AFB reported that DoD unit presentations included lessons learned from thunderstorm events, tropical storms and hurricanes, infrequent gulf coast snow events, and sea breeze induced phenomena. TSgt Bob Michael, resident WSR-88D expert at Eglin AFB, led discussions on recent tropical systems, highlighting both the utility and shortfalls of the WSR-88D during these events. SMSgt Jeff Fries, weather flight superintendent from Fort Rucker AL, followed by discussing methodology used to determine vertical storm structure utilizing VIL/ET. The conference was a fantastic opportunity for meteorologists to share and learn, not only unique forecasting techniques, but the impact of weather phenomena on their separate customers.

As ongoing changes occur in the structure of both Air Force Weather and the National Weather Service, these type of conferences should endure and attendance from all agencies is encouraged.

LOCAL CHAPTER NEWS

The Arkansas Chapter of the NWA met on 6 March 1997 at the National Weather Service Forecast Office in North Little Rock. The meeting was attended by 18 people. The meeting was advertised in the local Little Rock newspaper and by several local television weathercasters. President Erwin Prater opened the meeting and discussed the proposed layout of the chapter committees. It was decided that there would be four committees consisting of Programs, Publicity, Outreach and the Chapter Newsletter. Chapter Treasurer Chuck Rickard presented the Treasurer's report.

Vice President George Wilken discussed his involvement in one of the outreach programs at a local Math and Science High School in Hot Springs. He also mentioned the possibilities of starting up a Student Chapter of the NWA at the same school if there is enough interest.

Mr. Wilken stressed the need for participation by all members in the outreach programs and chapter committees. He mentioned past involvement in a teacher training program called 'Datastreme', and the chapter's involvement with upcoming science fairs across the state.

A brief discussion was held concerning the donation of weather equipment to area schools. One of the criteria for participation would be for the school to have some sort of weather curriculum in their science program. It was decided that the outreach committee would look into this further for future consideration and discuss it at a future meeting. President Prater and Vice President Wilken then presented a program to the group on Doppler radar and it's many uses.
- Newton K. Skiles, Corresponding Secretary

The Arkansas Chapter of the NWA also met on 26 April 1997 at the Arkansas Aerospace Center in Little Rock. The business meeting was opened by President Erwin Prater in the Center's conference room. The group participated in a brief discussion about programs for future chapter meetings. Corresponding Secretary Newton Skiles brought the group up-to-date on the local science fairs that the chapter had provided judges for. Vice President George Wilken had judged fairs in Little Rock and Batesville. Vice President Wilken distributed an "Application for Placement of Meteorological Instruments" form that he had made up. This is in conjunction with the chapter providing a set of weather instruments to schools or other organizations each year. The form was discussed briefly by the group, and George encouraged chapter members to pass on any suggestions for revision of the form. The next meeting was tentatively scheduled for 31 May 1997. Vice President Wilken will try to set up a picnic for this meeting at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. After the meeting was adjourned, the group attended an IMAX movie at the Center entitled, "Special Effects."
- Newton Skiles, Corresponding Secretary

At the Central Oklahoma Chapter of the NWA about 60 people attended the "Storm Slide/Video Fest", 10 April 1997 at the Sarkey Energy Center on the campus of the University of Oklahoma. Following a social period, President Kit Wagner welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order. Treasurer Charlie Crisp reported that the chapter now has 136 members.

The President read a report from Jim Keeney and J. T. Lee who judged the East Central Oklahoma Science and Engineering Fair on 14 March in Seminole. There were two first place winners who each received a NOAA weather radio. Paula Broome, a 5th grader at Northwood Elementary School in Seminole, did a project on producing clouds in a bottle. Justin Jordan, a 6th grader at Latta Elementary School in Ada, did a project on the effects of acid rain on seed growth.

The President also read a report from Kevin Brown and Chris Sohl who judged the Oklahoma State Science and Engineering Fair on 4 April in Ada. There was one first place winner and two second place winners. Maya Johnson and Kimberly Anderson, 8th graders at Crutcho Public School in Midwest City, had the joint first place project where they studied the effects of rainfall amounts on stream flow. They received certificates and subscriptions to Weatherwise magazine. Second place winner Ashley Tidwell, a 7th grader at Brink Junior High School in Oklahoma City, received a NOAA weather radio for explaining why the sun looks yellow. Jeffrey Shepherd, a freshman at Grace Fellowship Christian School in Tulsa, received a NOAA weather radio for his investigation of flow in a laboratory model of a tornado.

There will be an election of officers at the May meeting. The President announced that Don Burgess is chairperson of the Nominating Committee, with Kelvin Droegemeier and Jeff Kimpel serving with him.

Chris Duvall, President of the University of Oklahoma AMS Student Chapter invited members of our chapter to join them picking up trash along a two-mile stretch of Highway 9 just west of Norman on Saturday, 19 April.

For this meeting's Organization Highlight, Vice President Fred Carr introduced Jim Belville, director of the WSR-88D Operational Support Facility in Norman, who gave an overview of his facility. The OSF, which is supported by the Departments of Commerce, Transportation and Defense, is responsible for providing life cycle support for all aspects of the operation of about 164 radars worldwide, with the support ranging from hardware and software maintenance to training to providing real-time trouble shooting to developing new hardware and software.

The Vice President introduced Greg Hanson who, with the assistance of Bobby Prentice, organized the "Storm Slide/Video Fest". The first presenter was Bob Lee who showed slides of the Hale-Bopp comet. Roger Edwards presented videos that he, Rich Thompson and Jim Leonard took of 1991 tornadoes in Kansas and Oklahoma. Dave Floyd showed videos of severe storm and tornadoes that he took in Wyoming, Minnesota, South Dakota and Texas. Arthur Witt presented a video showing what it was like to be in a car as several large hailstones smashed into the front windshield over the course of several minutes. Bobby Prentice presented a combination of slides, video and time-lapse video of storms and tornadoes to the accompaniment of background music. Jim Ladue and Daphne Zaras showed severe storms and tornadoes from New York, Colorado and Oklahoma. The program concluded with Dave Blanchard showing videos of tornadoes in Wyoming, Colorado and Nebraska.

The chapter's Web page is linked to the NWA page Local Chapter section.
- Rodger A. Brown, Secretary

The High Plains Chapter's first meeting of 1997 was held at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) in Hays, KS on 11 March. The 31 attendees included contingents from the 4 participating NWS offices in Dodge City KS, Goodland KS, North Platte NE and Hastings NE. Also in attendance were: Dr. Roger Pruitt of FHSU, guest speaker, Dr. Eric Rasmussen, several Hays area guests, David Blanchard of NSSL and Brian Motta of Colorado State University. Dr. Eric Rasmussen of the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) provided an intriguing overview of the early stages of research done by VORTEX (Verification of the ORigins of Rotation in Tornadoes EXperiment). This was particularly interesting to the attendees since much of the data had been collected in the High Plains region. He presented some of the discoveries made in studying the Dimmit, TX 1995 tornado. Dr. Rasmussen explained that a few of the theories involving tornadogenesis are going to have to be thought through again in light of some surprising discoveries with the Dimmit storm. He stressed that the research work is in a very early stage yet. So far, only one of the storms which VORTEX collected data on has been studied so it is a bit premature to make any conclusions. A very lively question and answer period followed the talk. Stephen Parker, Science and Operations Officer (SOO), NWS North Platte, NE video taped the presentation for the Chapter. At the conclusion of Dr. Rasmussen's talk, the chapter held a short business meeting including elections for the coming year. 1997 High Plains Chapter officers are: Jim Johnson, NWS Dodge City, President; Matt Gerard, NWS Dodge City, Vice-President; Jim Brewster, NWS Hastings, Treasurer, Bruce Entwistle, NWS Goodland, Secretary and Stephen Parker, NWS North Platte, Officer Without Portfolio. A proposal to sponsor the first rotating annual September meeting was submitted by the NWS Dodge City, KS office. The proposal was accepted by the membership.

The Dodge City NWS office will host a three day conference 15, 16 and 17 September 1997. This will be the High Plains Chapter 1st Annual Conference with a chosen topic of NWS Modernization Issues. Sessions will include:

  1. Technology Advances,
  2. Mesoscale Forecasting Advances and Methodology,
  3. Local Watch Issuance and
  4. Management and Personnel Issues.

    A "Call For Papers" has been issued with abstracts due by 15 July 1997. Authors should submit one page abstracts to the Chapter President, Jim Johnson, National Weather Service Office, 104 Airport Rd. Dodge City, KS 67801, (TEL: 316-227-7140; FAX: 316-227-2288, or e-mail: Jim.Johnson@noaa.gov) or Matt Gerard, at the same address.

    Much discussion concerning supporting local science fairs ensued. A committee was formed to investigate how to approach area science fairs from a chapter perspective. Overseen by the Vice-President, the committee includes: Rick Ewald, SOO, NWS Hastings, NE and the Chapter Secretary. The meeting adjourned to dinner at the Fort Hays State University student union.

    The High Plains Chapter announces its summer quarterly meeting. The featured speaker will be Carl Bullock from the NOAA/Forecast Systems Laboratory in Boulder, CO. Among the things Carl will speak about are the capabilities of AWIPS (Advanced Weather Information Processing System) Build 3, future plans of AWIPS Build 4 and 5, status of WFO-Advanced, and experiences and feedback from the Denver Risk Reduction Effort. The meeting will be on Friday, 20 June 1997 at 4:00 p.m. CDT in Room 106 of Tomanek Hall on the Ft. Hays State University campus in Hays, KS. Dinner will follow in the Pioneer Lounge, upstairs in the Memorial Union. The meal will be a picnic buffet including hamburgers and bratwurst, baked beans, choice of three salads, potato chips and dip and choice of frozen yogurt for dessert. Cost is $7.00 per person. Those wishing to attend the dinner should RSVP no later than 13 June 1997 to: Matt Gerard, c/o National Weather Service, 104 Airport Road, Dodge City, KS 67801 e-mail: Matt.Gerard@noaa.gov; Tel: (316) 225-6746 or (316) 225-6514; FAX: (316) 227-2288.
    - Jim Johnson, President

    The Heart of the Midlands Chapter of the National Weather Association will be holding their next meeting on Wednesday, 11 June, 6:00 p.m. at the Godfather's Pizza, 7515 Pacific, Omaha, Nebraska. Enjoy a Two Topping Personal Pizza, one-trip salad bar and all the pop you can drink for only $3.99. For more information contact Ralph Hanson at (402) 293-8236 (H), or (402) 232-6247 (W) or e-mail: rhanson@omahalink.net
    - Ralph Hanson

    JOB CORNER

    (Ed: The NWA lists job openings free from equal opportunity employers for the benefit of members. See http://www.nwas.org or call the NWA office at (334) 213-0388 for possible short notice listings.)

    Graduate Assistantships Available, Atmospheric Science Group, Texas Tech University. Qualified applicants are needed to fill several graduate assistant positions beginning with the 1997 Fall semester. Both teaching and research appointments are available. Students will pursue an M.S. degree in atmospheric science or the Ph.D. in Geosciences and will participate in applied research in one or more of the following areas: (1) Mesoscale meteorology, with emphasis on intense convective systems and regional NWP; (2) Remote sensing including radar and satellite meteorology; (3) Severe storms including thunderstorms, hailstorms, dust storms, and tornadoes; (4) Meteorological aspects of wind engineering and building damage. Stipends for a 1/2-time position during the 9-month academic year range up to $9,500 depending on standing in the graduate program; summer employment, in some cases full-time, is often available at equivalent rates. For further information, please contact: Dr. Gerald M. Jurica, Atmospheric Science Graduate Advisor, Texas Tech University, Box 42101, Lubbock, Texas 79409-2101 (Phone: (806) 742-3113; FAX: (806) 742-3416; e-mail: jurika@ttu.edu).

    The Aeronautical Science Department of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ, is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time, tenure-track position at the level of Assistant Professor or higher. The position is available starting 15 August 1997, but the starting date can be as late as 1 January 1998. The position requirements are: a Ph.D. in Meteorology; two years undergraduate teaching experience; hands-on, working knowledge of computer based meteorology data processing systems; ability to advise and mentor students interested in aviation careers; and, demonstrated ability to publish and write grants. It is desirable that applicants possess one or more of the following: research activity in the area of aviation weather hazards; aviation safety investigation experience; FAA private pilot rating (CFII or ATP highly preferred); and commercial airline, heavy jet, transoceanic experience. The successful applicant will teach a selection of the five undergraduate meteorology courses currently offered. He/She will also oversee the UNIDATA data acquisition and display systems in the meteorology lab. In addition he/she will be expected to advise Aeronautical Science students on academic matters relating to their graduation and career requirements. Collateral duties will include normal faculty committee work. Scholarly activity and capacity to attract external funding are essential components of the tenure track. For further information, contact Dr. Bart Geerts at (520) 708-3842 or e-mail geertsb@pr.erau.edu. We are particularly interested in international applicants. The deadline for the 15 August starting date is 1 July 1997, but the position will remain open until filled. Please send curriculum vitae and three references reflecting both professional and teaching experience to: Dr. Jeff Ashworth, Chairman, Aeronautical Science Dept., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Univ., 3200 Willow Creek Rd., Prescott, AZ 86301.

    Commanders' Weather Corporation is looking for knowledgeable, enthusiastic operational meteorologists who want to sharpen their skills in a growing company. The successful candidate should have a bachelors degree in meteorology or atmospheric science, strong forecasting abilities, and a thorough knowledge of synoptic meteorology. In addition, Commanders' is seeking a candidate with excellent communication skills, both oral and written, along with a knowledge of PC's. Commanders' is located in Nashua, NH and is a world leader in global marine forecasting. We have a strong sailing clientele and are involved with many renowned sailors and yacht races worldwide. With additional growth in the marine industry and expansion into other forecasting markets, Commanders' is looking for individuals who want to participate and contribute to this growth. Shift work is required and the person must be available to travel both domestically and internationally. Commanders' Weather offers a competitive salary, a health plan, and other benefits including free skiing at a few of New Hampshire's major ski areas. If you are interested in a challenging opportunity to learn and grow in a professional and cordial environment, send a cover letter and resume with strong references to: Commanders' Weather Corporation, 154 Broad Street, Suite 1517, Nashua, NH 03062. FAX: (603) 882-6661; e-mail: 104477.3462@compuserve.com

    STRATEGIC WEATHER SERVICES (SWS) is offering operational meteorologists a challenging career opportunity with one of America's oldest weather forecasting companies in their Palm Springs, California office. The company has offices in Palm Springs, California and Valley Forge, Pennsylvania with clients spread across North America, Canada and Europe. Requirements: at least five years on-the-job experience in synoptic meteorology and/or weather forecasting. Solid references are required. A degree in Meteorology is a plus. The ability to work in a computer environment is also a big plus. We are looking for creative people who are seeking a job that offers a different challenge every day and like to work in a "team" environment. Position includes very competitive salary, health and disability plans and a 401K plan. Please fax your resume to (619) 325-9678 or call Bill Young at (619) 325-9677.

    Federal Contractor Seeks Weather Observers for mid-US. DYNAMIC SCIENCE INC., 1821 Summit Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45237 Phone (513) 821-3773; Fax (513) 821-3773; e-mail: dynamic@mail.horandata.net Contact Person: Kurt Wuerfel, Regional Projects Manager DSI. Position Description: provide ASOS/AWOS augmentation, ASOS/AWOS back-up observation, and standard weather observation, maintain records, quality control for weather observations, limited aviation weather reporting, broadcast over local radio. Job Requirements: Must be able to pass FAA security check. Four-year Meteorology degree or three years experience as a weather observer, NWS certification, one or more years experience a plus, understanding of the ASOS/AWOS weather system/ hands on a plus, detail oriented, willing to work all shifts, must be willing to relocate. Federally Determined Wage Rate: Starting Rates vary by location ($27,000 to $29,000). Supervisor/Station Manager: These positions are also needed and will be filled by the most qualified candidates. Pay = mid 30's. How to apply: Send Resume to Kurt Wuerfel at the address above. Call if you have questions.

    Millersville University Assistant Professor for one-year, full-time, temporary position beginning August 1997. Teach introductory meteorology courses for both majors and non-majors, environmental meteorology, atmospheric dynamics, and radar meteorology. Also must assume shared responsibility for the supervision of a UNIX-based local area network and its hardware/software components. Required: Ph.D. in meteorology or atmospheric science; evidence of effective teaching and communication skills; proficiency in the use of UNIX-based computer systems and familiarity with interactive meteorological analysis and display software; and a successful interview and teaching demonstration. Preferred: Teaching experience at the university level. Full consideration given to applications received by 5/16/97. Send letter of application, curriculum vitae, copies of all transcripts and three current letters of recommendation to: Meteorology Search / NWA411, Millersville University, P.O. Box 1002, Millersville, PA 17551-0302. An EO/AA Institution.

    AccuWeather, Inc., offers career opportunities with the world's leading and most diversified commercial weather service. You will have exciting opportunities to handle all types of weather forecasting for major business, media and government organizations. These include on-air broad-casting for radio stations; creative presentation of weather graphics; preparation of television and newspaper forecasts; snow and ice warning services; worldwide forecasting for agriculture; specialized forecasts for the transportation industry, utilities, businesses and resorts; computer applications; and many others. You will work with some of the nation's leading forecast meteorologists in one of the world's largest forecast centers, interacting with a staff of 300 employees. Our state-of-the-art facility provides our 85 forecast meteorologists with tools and computer technology unavailable elsewhere. Applicants need to be articulate and productive with outstanding forecasting and communication skills. Through progressive advancement, forecasters can become on-air meteorologists in major radio markets, or become involved in computer operations, graphic design, new product development or customer relations. AccuWeather also has positions available on our computer staff for meteorologists with programming experience. AccuWeather offers competitive salaries and an extensive benefits package including health insurance, 401K and profit sharing plans, life insurance and disability income. If you are an enthusiastic, hard working forecaster interested in employment in a dynamic growing company which offers superior opportunity for advancement, send a detailed resume to David H. Dombek, Director of Forecaster Hiring, AccuWeather, Inc., 619 W. College Ave., State College PA 16801; FAX: (814) 231-0621; e-mail: resume@accuwx.com

    Weather Services Corporation (WSC) is one of the country's oldest and largest commercial operational meteorological services. Since 1948, it has been providing industry, government and the media with accurate, customized, worldwide weather information. The wide variety of WSC clients are located across the US, around the world and throughout cyberspace. A staff of nearly 100 professionals is supervised by AMS Certified Consulting Meteorologists. WSC is located in a new, state-of-the-art, 24-hour per day, Global Operations Center in Lexington, Massachusetts - on Boston's route 128 Technology Highway. The most important resource of WSC is their employees. Each is provided with the finest tools and the opportunity to excel in a stimulating, fast-paced, professional environment. In addition to a competitive compensation and benefits package, WSC employees can participate in the growth and success of the company through a stock ownership plan. Recent and planned growth of WSC presents opportunities for both entry-level and experienced Operational Meteorologists; Graphic Artists with PC experience - multi-lingual capabilities are a plus; Radio Broadcasters; Journalists and Producers; Systems Analysts with C in VMS and UNIX environments; Data and Telecommunications Technicians; Telemarketers; and Sales Account Executives. To apply, please send resume to: Human Resources - N895, Weather Services Corporation, 420 Bedford Street, Lexington MA 02173; FAX: (617) 676-1001; e-mail: hr@wx.com.

    WeatherData, Incorporated is interested in hiring energetic, knowledgeable meteorologists who have operational forecasting as well as radar interpretation experience for Forecast/Storm Warning Meteorologist positions. This opportunity to apply your skills involves mesoscale severe storm warnings and short and long range forecasting for a diversified client base across the US. We are looking for dedicated meteorologists with excellent written and oral communication skills to become part of our dynamic, growing company. If you love weather and want to work with clients that take your work seriously, this is the opportunity for you. This position requires a bachelor's degree in meteorology or the equivalent, and at least one year of professional forecasting and radar experience. Doppler radar interpretation preferred. At WeatherData, Incorporated, meteorologists use state-of-the-art equipment to make mesoscale forecasts. Real-time analysis of GOES satellite imagery, lightning data, surface observations, wind profiler data, Mesonet data and Doppler radar data from every NEXRAD site in the country occurs every day. WeatherData offers excellent salaries, benefits, profit sharing and moving expense allowance. We also provide our associates with many opportunities for advancement and professional growth. If you are up to the challenge of forecasting and communicating weather to our clients, and would like to join our team, send a cover letter and resume to: WeatherData, Incorporated, Attn: Sharol Youngers, Manager of Business Administration, 245 N. Waco St., Suite 310, Wichita, Kansas 67202.