Midsouth Weather

2005-12-04T21:00:00.000-08:00

Enjoying a nice Sunday afternoon flight. This shot was taken between Helena and Tunica with the Mississippi River in the background.

Christmas Party

2005-12-04T20:21:00.000-08:00

I am a "people person". I always enjoy the company of others. My wife and I hosted a Christmas party last night and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. The party is a lot of work, but worth every bit of the effort.

After the party concludes, we always find ourselves sitting in the living room, discussing the highlights of the party. We want the party to be more than just a nice little get together, but actually reflect the meaning of the Christmas season. That's why we always have a time of singing Christmas carols and letting folks tell what Christmas means to them.

One friend told me as he was leaving, "that's the first time I've sung Christmas songs like that since I was about 6 or 7 years old. I really enjoyed it".

Can you tell that I love the Christmas season?

DECEMBER IS HERE

2005-11-28T17:50:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is a recent memory and Christmas is now just a few weeks away. It's my favorite time of the year.

Christmas 2004 was perfect with that thin layer of ice and snow. What are the chances of a repeat for 2005? SLIM.

Moving on to another Christmas note: I was a mischevious child. My parents would buy Christmas presents for us and store them in a certain upstairs closet. I was bad about visiting that closet and trying out some of the toys before they were wrapped. By the time Christmas day came, I already had a good idea of my favorite toys. I was rotten! Now with five kids I'm beginning to understand that statement that "you reap what you sow".

Our home in Middleton was the epicenter for the family Christmas day celebration. Our family was alot of fun and I always looked forward to seeing everyone. Gag gifts abounded and Christmas day was the most enjoyable day of the year.

Our kids like to read Luke chapter 2 out of the Bible, which chronicles the reason for Christmas. Indeed, Bethlehem represents the greatest gift ever given. If we successfully pass that thought along to our kids, then we will have accomplished something great in this life.

Thanksgiving

2005-11-22T15:06:00.000-08:00

There is much to be thankful for as we head into this holiday season. Compared to the majority of people in our world, we are greatly blessed. Amid the football games, holiday shopping and extra day off, be sure to pause for a few moments and give thanks for all that we have.

Life has been busy as usual. With five kids, it never seems to slow down. I guess that keeps me young.

I've been doing some flying recently. To me, there is no other hobby that I enjoy more than sitting in the cockpit and taking a flight. Well, golf is a close second. I also have a couple of kids who love to make that trip to the airport and fly with me. They enjoy the rollercoaster manuevers! I only do those with the kids. Most adults don't have the stomach for that kind of flying.

I'm on a new schedule here at work that has taken some getting used to, but it definitely agrees with my family. I'm now doing weather at 4, 4:30 and 6pm. For the first time in 18 years, I'm not working the 10pm show. I'll say this, I'm getting more sleep!

I hope you and your family have a very Happy Thanksgiving. Thanks for taking time to read the blog.

WARM WEATHER

2005-11-08T15:21:00.000-08:00

We've had two days of record heat here in Memphis, reaching 83 degrees both Monday and Tuesday. A cold front will provide some fall like changes for late Wednesday and Thursday. We can also expect a chance for a few passing showers. Boy, wouldn't that be nice!

The weekend was great and I enjoyed time with Leah and the kids. I also took my biannual flight review, which means I'm good to go for another two years. Private pilots have to fly with an instructor every two years just to make sure they're not getting rusty. You wouldn't want to fly with a rusty pilot, would you? I wouldn't!
I took my boys, T.J. and Josh on a local flight Sunday afternoon. We had picture perfect weather.

I had a brief stint at work from midnight till 4am Sunday morning covering a line of storms that moved through. Even though the National Weather Service issued over a dozen Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, we were very fortunate that tornadoes didn't materialize in this area.

By the way, here's a quick reminder that November is a secondarly severe weather month in the Mid South. Remember November 27, 1994? That was the night that severe thunderstorms spawned a tornado which hit Germantown and killed 3 people.

For me, one of the greatest tornado events that I covered was the November 15, 1989 tornado which hit Huntsville, AL and killed 22 people. At 4:30 in the afternoon the temperature was 73 degrees. By 10pm we had snow flurries! Talk about a strong cold front, we had it.

If you don't get anything else out of reading the blog, just remember to have your severe weather plan of action rehearsed and ready. Make sure that your kids know what to do when severe weather strikes. Go over it with them, often.

2005-10-31T19:06:00.000-08:00

How would you like to baby sit this bunch of kids? They're a handful.

2005-10-31T19:05:00.000-08:00

I've told our girls, "No dating until age 30".

2005-10-31T19:02:00.000-08:00

Having a great time in Gulf Shores.

BACK AT WORK

2005-10-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

This has been a crazy week! I took 10 days of vacation with the family and we enjoyed a nice, long stay at the beach. But it didn't take me long for realize that I was back in the rat race.

I have been busy with some extra training all week and life has been happening at a very rapid pace. Before you know it, the weekend will be here and I'll take a breather. The way I look at it, I'm glad to have a job, glad to be busy and I feel very blessed. I'll try to post some vacation pictures tomorrow.

How about this weather? As a regular contributor to MLG&W, I always look forward to that little break that we normally get in October. You know, we run the AC all summer long and into September. Then we usually enjoy a cooler October before having to run the heat in November. This year we went straight from the AC to the heater! No break.

Such is life.

OFF

2005-10-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

Your friendly blog writer is taking off the week of October 17th. More blogging coming up the week of October 24th!

WHAT WAS LIFE LIKE...

2005-10-11T13:10:00.000-07:00

What was life like before...

1. Starbucks? Paid only 50 cents for a cup of coffee.

2. Kids? Not as exciting.

3. My wife? Lonely.

4. Wal Mart? More expensive and less convenient.

5. 9-11? Not as guarded.

6. My computer? Used more "white out".

7. The Internet? Logged more time in a library.

8. River City Trio? I sang in the shower.

9. News Channel 3? Not as interesting.

10. Age 30? About 15 lbs. lighter.

BUST

2005-10-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Today's forecast was an official "BUST". That means my accuracy was lacking today. Weather forecasting has a way of keeping you humble.

Today's cloud cover was supposed to erode and allow for some sunny conditions. Well, it didn't happen. Temperatures never made it out of the 60s and it turned out to be a cloudy, cool and dismal day.

I always tell people that I'm in PROMOTION, not in PRODUCTION! God controls the weather. He gets it right every time. While we strive to be accurate with every forecast, we're going to miss it occasionally.

Thanks for watching and for reading the blog.

2005-10-09T17:44:00.000-07:00

Open through October 16th.

VESTA HOME SHOW

2005-10-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

If you have the chance, check out this year's VESTA Home Show. I've been to quite a few of these shows and I think this is the best one yet.

This year's VESTA Home Show is in Fayette county. I know what you're thinking, "way out there in Fayette county"? Well, not exactly. It's just over the Fayette county line, about 10 minutes east of Wolfchase Mall on Highway 64.

Granted, I couldn't afford any of the 11 featured homes, but I'm always open for ideas should we decide to undertake some future home improvements or even build again. We've had two really good building experiences and at some point, I might be open to doing it again.

What is impressive is the quality of these homes. You won't find anything cheap or second rate in these homes. Only the best!

This year's VESTA Home Show runs until October 16th.

2005-10-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

Enjoying lunch with some of the Shelby Seniors.

Seniors

2005-10-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

On the way to work today, I had the honor of joining a group of senior adults from Shelby county. I guess you'd call them the Shelby Seniors. They've been meeting as a group for quite a few years.

It's funny, but I've always enjoyed senior adults. I guess that's because I had two wonderful grandmothers that made a impact in my life. As a kid, I enjoyed playing Chinese Checkers with Grandmother Simpson or visiting "Ma" Goodell here in Memphis. I have wonderful memories of spending time with them.

Today's group of seniors were enjoying a picnic in Bartlett and they asked me to come out and talk about weather. Hey, you can't beat that! Hot dogs, hamburgers and bologna!

Life is good!

Boston

2005-10-03T21:42:00.000-07:00

It's always good to get away to see other parts of the country. Well, this time I got away, even though I didn't have enough time to do much sightseeing.

I was in the Boston area this past weekend for some computer training. I got to see "the Big Dig", our tax dollars at work in alarming quantities. I passed close to Fenway Park, even though I didn't have the opporutnity to stop. The Red Sox and Yankees were playing and I didn't have the fortune it would have taken to buy a ticket and see the last few innings.

I was able to visit a friend of mine who I haven't seen in over 25 years. We had a great time re-living the old memories. He took me to Cambridge where we walked across the Harvard campus. It was a beautiful evening and I enjoyed every minute of our conversation, plus the crisp, cool air. It was very "un Memphis" like. No humidity!

Being a student of history, I'd enjoy going back and spending more time sight seeing.

Even though it was a great trip, I always enjoy being back in my own bed. In a house with five kids, I'm just not used to being in such quiet surroundings. :)

O YE OF LITTLE FAITH

2005-09-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

I've always enjoyed watching football. As a kid, I remember watching the Dallas Cowboys with stone faced coach Tom Landry on the sideline. It didn't matter how many points Dallas trailed, I always knew that quarterback Roger Staubach would bring the team back to win in the closing minutes of the game.

Last night's Tennessee-LSU game included a first half to forget with a nail-biting closer. The Volunteers trailed 21-0 at the half and I must admit, I was in the process of writing off the team and the season as a loss. The Vols offense was just out of sync, and that's being generous.

Under the direction of quarterback Rick Clausen, the Vols roared back to win in overtime, 30-27. How many times have I told my kids, "never say never"? Well, I never, ever thought the Vols could come back and make it close, much less win.

Their win is a great lesson for all of us. No matter how difficult the circumstances or how rough the road, don't ever quit! Make up your mind to do your very best and you might be surprised at the outcome. Any doubts? Just ask Rick Clausen and the Tennessee Volunteers.

FALL IS HERE

2005-09-25T01:45:00.000-07:00

I was wondering if fall would actually arrive this year and it looks as though we're in luck! We've experienced temperatures in the 90s for most of September and had very little rainfall. That pattern is now changing thanks to the remnants of Hurricane Rita. Rain chances are included in this weekend's forecast. Plus, daily high temperatures are expected in the low mid 80s instead of the mid to upper 90s.

NO MORE HURRICANES!

2005-09-25T00:55:00.000-07:00

I've had enough of these hurricanes! We have been bombarded with one storm after another. First it was Katrina, now Rita is making her presence known.

Any hurricane making landfall is going to inflict widespread damage, and in the past week Hurricane Rita actually reached category 5 status. Fortunately, Rita lost some of her strength before making landfall early Saturday morning. Despite this loss of strength, Rita still imposed major damage along the Gulf Coast.

I'd like to see New Orleans rebuilt on a hill! I know the city's history, city pride, etc., I just don't trust those dikes and levy's. Looks like the taxpayers will shell out billions to rebuild New Orleans, only to have another storm come through and do the same sort of damage.

By the way, hurricane season officially runs through November 30th.

2005-09-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

Enjoying a July picnic with Mom and Dad.

THANK YOU

2005-09-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

I'd like to say THANK YOU for all of the acts of kindness many of you have expressed since the passing of my mother last week. Readers of the blog know that we've been dealing with her sickness over the past year, and now she is in Heaven, no longer in pain.

Mom was a very gifted artist and pianist. She played the piano or organ for countless weddings, funerals and graduation ceremonies through the years. It was only fitting that she play the piano at her own funeral. What???

About 3 years ago I suggested that she should record some of her piano music. I said that someday when she was gone, her music would live on. So at her funeral, she provided all of the prelude music via the cd she recorded. It was very special.

No more pain, no more cancer. Because of God's gift of salvation, Mom is enjoying an eternity in Heaven. Her new life has just begun.

From the song, COME TO JESUS: "And with your final heartbeat, kiss the world goodbye. Go in peace and laugh on glory's side".

HURRICANE RELIEF

2005-09-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hurricane relief has been pouring in from across the country and around the world. Memphis charities, churches, civic clubs and individuals have donated millions of dollars in relief aid and here comes another innovative and wonderful opportunity to help.

It's called Gulf Relief '05, an auction to benefit Hurricane Katrina victims. This is a combined effort of Memphis television stations. That in itself is a Memphis first!

John Roebuck of Roebuck Auctions in Memphis is coordinating the auction. Former Memphis Mayor Dick Hackett is also working on the event with assistance from dozens of volunteers.

Here's where we need your help: We need donated items. You can donate furniture, antiques, cars, trucks, 4 wheelers or practically anything that can be auctioned. Call 662-470-2122 to list your items. You'll be told when you can drop your items off at the Desoto Civic Center.

The auction starts at 6pm, Friday September 23rd and will continue on Saturday September 24th. 100% of the proceeds will go to help Katrina victims. Also, your donations are tax deductible.

For internet users, you can view items and place bids by going to www.roebuckauctions.com.

Good luck and good bidding!

2005-09-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

I'd say that the computer models seem to agree on the future movement of Tropical Storm Ophelia. YIKES!

2005-09-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of one of our favorite MDA Telethon volunteers, Brad Tidwell from the Tennessee Air National Guard.

A Difficult Time

2005-09-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

I try to stay focused on whatever projects are at hand, but it's been tough during the past few months because of my mother's cancer.

My mom is a 1951 graduate of Southside High School here in Memphis. She and my father married in 1951 and lived in the small town of Middleton, where my father worked in the banking business. I've always compared Middleton to Mayberry. It was definitely a simple way of life.

Mom was a homemaker, musician, artist, etc. Like most Mom's, she wore many different hats. She was an accomplished pianist and played in church for over 50 years. Once the kids left home, she took up art and actually became very good at it. She was definitely one talented lady.

Her knowledge of the Bible was astounding. she taught several different women's Bible classes through the years. She and my Dad made sure that we were in church every Sunday.

She had surgery last year for cancer and went through follow up radiation. In January of this year, with more symptoms, we found that the cancer had spread and that surgery just wasn't an option. So we've tried to make the most of every day.

The last few weeks have been tough, seeing Mom slip into a bed-ridden state. Along with my Dad, I've tried to be there for her every step of the way. She's near the end of her life and I know that she is in God's hands.

In a visit the other night, she told me that she was "going home". I reminded her that she'll get to see a son (my brother Mike, also a cancer victim), when she gets to Heaven. It's sad to see her suffer, but I know it won't last much longer.

Many of you reading the blog have probably experienced similar events in your lives. You don't want to let go, but God gives us the grace to deal with these difficult circumstances.

If nothing else, this event has made me think about life, the things that are really important, and what I can do to make a difference in the lives of others.

Labor Day Weekend

2005-09-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

It was a long weekend. Maybe I'm getting older, but this year's Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon took a toll on me. We had a very good telethon despite the fact that money is tough to come by these days. Devestating Hurricane Katrina combined with the highest gas prices ever--many folks are simply trying to get by.

I'm still in awe at the images coming out of Louisiana. I'm not that interested in the "blame game" at this point. Let's get those needs met, then we can start looking into what happened, who dropped the ball, etc.

Turning to sports, I was disappointed to see the University of Memphis Tigers lose to Ole Miss. I missed most of the game since the telethon was on air. But I did see Saturday's lackluster performance by the Tennessee Vols. They better show some improvement fast or the Gators will each their lunch on September 17th.

2005-09-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

Here's the tracking map for Hurricane Katrina. For some incredible satellite photos of the hurricane ravaged area, go to: http://alt.ngs.noaa.gov/katrina/KATRINA0000.HTM

AFTERMATH

2005-09-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

It's quite obvious to anyone observing the devastation in News Orleans--it won't be cleaned up quickly! The damage is simply incomprehensible!

Tornadoes hit quickly and do tremendous damage, but the damage is usually much more compact than that of a hurricane. Don't get me wrong, I'm humbled each time I visit the site of a tornado touchdown, especially when there is loss of life. But no tornado outbreak that I know of equals what has happened in New Orleans and along the Gulf coast.

Those who have fled New Orleans won't be going back in a day or two. They won't be getting a check from the insurance company and rebuilding. For many residents, they've lost it all. Cities like Memphis and Houston will be their new homes.

The Mid South seems to be rising to the occasion. There has been a great outpouring of assistance for these displaced hurricane victims. Government agencies, churches, civic clubs, and just ordinary citizens are doing all they can to help. Money, meals, clothing items, housing--these are just a few of the items being offered to help.

Way to go Mid South!

2005-08-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Katrina left the city of New Orleans in ruins.

KATRINA

2005-08-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

What do you say after a hurricane like Katrina? It's hard to imagine the devastation caused by a storm of that magnitude. The images coming out of New Orleans are showing damage on the scale of an atomic bomb blast! Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of New Orleans and along the Gulf coast.

By the time Katrina came through the Mid South Monday night, she had been downgraded to a tropical storm. Winds of 50-55 mph were clocked in the Memphis area along with rainfall amounts topping 6 inches.

The drive home after last night's 10pm newscast was interesting at best and challenging at the very least. Our home lost power shortly after 1am. It was tough getting a good night's sleep while wondering if the next gust of wind would bring a tree through our home!

Fortunately, the power clicked on while I was showering and shaving this morning, then it went off for another 5 hours. I went outside and check our backyard rain gauge, which can only hold 6" of water. Well, it was topped out! The total didn't surprise me at all.

Count your blessings, then find a way through your church, Red Cross or other organization to contribute to relief efforts.

MID SOUTH WEATHER

2005-08-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

I admit it: I've beens spoiled! The weather last week in California was nothing short of perfect. During my five day visit, I don't think I broke a sweat. Temperatures were in the mid to upper 70s with practically no humidity.

Back in Memphis, I could feel it as I walked out of Memphis International Airport. WHAM! That good ole Mid South humidity just slapped me in the face! I can't wait for October.

2005-08-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

Jerry Lewis has had health issues in recent years, but he was in rare form when this picture was taken last Friday night.

2005-08-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

My wife and I enjoyed a reception at the Beverly Hilton.

2005-08-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

This was the second time I've had the opportunity to visit with voice over artist Kasey Kasem.

CALIFORNIA

2005-08-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

My wife and I just returned from California. It was the first time in 12 years that we've been away from our kids on an overnight trip! Through the years, we've gotten away for a night or two, but we always took the baby with us. Here's a big tip of the hat to my in-laws for keeping all five of our kids for our five day trip! They were actually still ON THEIR FEET when we returned--the in-laws that is!

Each year the Muscular Dystrophy Association holds an Emcee's Seminar in Los Angeles to provide training and education in advance of the annual Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon on Labor Day. We learn the latest research developments in the fight of this crippling and deadly disease. We also exchange ideas with telethon hosts from other cities--all in in the pursuit of making our telethon the best ever.

My wife and I decided to add a couple of extra days to the California trip and do some sight-seeing. Since we're both history buffs, we visited the Reagan Presidential Library. We drove Highway 1 along the Pacific Ocean to watch the local surfers take on the waves. Ventura, Oxnard, Malibu and Los Angeles were all on our "to do" list. However, we enjoyed the small Danish town of Solvang the best!

More California posts to follow.

2005-08-16T13:59:00.000-07:00

Phillip Pardue of Arlington caught this MONSTER "flat head catfish" recently. How would you like to reel in something this big?

OUCH!

2005-08-15T19:58:00.002-07:00

Ok, what was it? Was it a wasp, a hornet or a bumble bee? Whatever it was diving at my head Saturday afternoon, it was obviously mad.

I was mowing in front of my home Saturday afternoon when the mad creature started diving at my head. I took my hat off to swat it and when I put my hat back on, the creature was trapped IN MY HAT and started stinging. YOWSER!! 3 stings right on the top of my head. I went in the house and got some baking soda and some ice and took a break.

After a little while I went back out to finish cutting that strip of grass that I had abandoned. Just as soon I got back on the scene and fired up the mower, that little varmit was back! I took a sting on the shoulder and then he got my right ear. That did it! More ice, more baking soda. No more mowing.

Within 30 minutes I started having my first ever allergic reaction! I broke out in hives and felt like a dog with a bad case of fleas! I was literally itching ALL OVER! I took some Benadryl and tried to get a nap. Fortunately the swelling went away within the hour.

I think I'll wait for cooler weather to mow that patch of grass.

MOTORIZED BIKE?

2005-08-12T19:25:00.000-07:00

When I was a little boy, I used to collect baseball cards. Not that I enjoyed reading about the athletes, I used the cards on my bike!

Every little boy would like to ride a motorcycle, but when you only have a bicycle, you're options are limited. I used to get clothes pins and snap those baseball cards to the frame of my bike so that the wheel spokes would catch them and make a "flapping sound". The faster you pedaled, the more it sounded like you had a motor on your bike.

Fast forward to 2005: Clothes dryers have replaced the need for clothes pins so what's a kid to do? Well, this morning as I was sitting outside sipping my coffee, I heard 5 year old Josh ride by on his bike. But what was that faint noise that sounded like a motor? The boy had strapped his electric TOOTHBRUSH to his bike to provide the sound effects of a motor.

No doubt, Josh is the only kid in our neighborhood--and probably yours--that has a toothbrush powered bicycle!

2005-08-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

The Special Olympics at Bellevue Baptist Church.

SOCCER PRACTICE

2005-08-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

Soccer wasn't very popular when I was a kid. Matter of fact, out in the country where I was raised, we thought soccer was sort of "sissy". We were more into baseball, basketball and football. But make no mistake, soccer has soared in popularity and become one of our favorite sports. Sissy sport it's not!

This year the Simpson family has placed 3 of our kids into soccer programs. The youngest, Joshua age 5, is loving every moment. My wife and I just chuckle as we watch the little guy ramble up and down the field. We're trying to decide on which nickname we like best: Dash or Flash! Of all our kids Josh will definitely be the athlete but Katie and Mikayla aren't very far behind. The girls are doing quite well as their soccer teams practice and get ready for the upcoming season.

This past Saturday I was honored to serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the Special Olympics at Bellevue Baptist Church. What a great group of guys and gals! There are some MAJOR NEWS CHANNEL 3 FANS in that group! Thank you so much for having me.

MY JOB & THE GOLDEN RULE

2005-08-04T18:06:00.000-07:00

So, how do you like your job? I really enjoy mine. I'm not micro-managed, I can be creative. I enjoy the people I work with, they are very professional. The work atmosphere here at WREG-TV is what I would classify as "very desirable". In other words, most folks would enjoy the work environment that I encounter each day when I walk through the door.

I enjoy meeting people. I would say that is one of the greatest benefits of my job. Most folks would describe me as a "people person". I don't have a introverted bone in my body.

My job also allows me a great amount of correspondence with our viewers. I get quite a few e-mails each day and I try to answer each one. Sometimes I receive requests for weather information, invitations to speak at schools or serve as Master of Ceremonies for a particular event.

When severe weather strikes and Tornado Warnings are issued, my e-mail box is flooded with good and bad e-mails. Folks who are being affected by the storms write to thank us for our "wall to wall" weather coverage, while other viewers are quite angry to have their favorite programs interrupted. It all goes with the territory of my job.

The one thing I have a hard time with are the unkind, hateful e-mails that come in for no apparent reason. I've learned that people will write almost anything in an e-mail. If I could tell you all the names I've been called through the years, it would make some of you BLUSH! One person wrote today and gave all the reasons they disliked me and then called me an "idiot".

The easy thing would be to write back in the same angry, unkind tone. But that's not the right thing to do. In my response I tried to be as kind as possible and even thanked the person for writing. It all goes back to the Golden Rule that I learned so many years ago in Sunday School: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you".

It's not always easy to abide by that rule, but it's the right thing to do.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE BLONDE

2005-08-01T14:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, let's just put it on the table: You don't have to be blonde to have a blonde moment! I am living proof of that fact.

About a month ago, I received an invitation to a 50th wedding anniversary celebration to be held this past weekend. My friends, the Wiginton's from Corinth, MS, have been friends for a number of years. I went to college with their son and at one point, they even served as weather watchers for News Channel 3.

I took a separate car to church Sunday morning so that I could leave afterwards and make the trip to Selmer, TN, where the reception was being held. I stopped for a quick lunch and then started my trip. I called my wife and asked her to look at the invitation and check the times for the reception. I didn't want to be early. Well, let me just say that I WASN'T EARLY!

Leah checked the invitation and said, "Honey, you're about 24 hours too late. The reception was yesterday"! I couldn't believe it! I had written the wrong day on my calendar and I was a day late.

There's a first time for everything! So, my apologies to Wigintons, but let me take this opportunity to say Happy Anniversary!

NAMES

2005-07-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, for regular readers of the blog, here are the names for our new puppies: Riley and Dakota!

One family member voted for Riley and Wiley, but we thought the dogs would be confused--I know I would be. Also, my personal favorite name was Fletch. The name Washington got heavy consideration as did Laddie. In the end, we let the kids make the final decision. I'll post some updated pictures on the blog very soon.

Thanks to all of you who submitted names!

2005-07-26T20:52:00.000-07:00

Myron Floren, the smiling accordion player from the Lawrence Welk Show, died this past weekend. He was a truly gifted musician.

GREAT MUSICIAN

2005-07-26T20:44:00.000-07:00

I guess I just missed this over the weekend, but Myron Floren of the Lawrence Welk Show, passed away.

You're probably thinking, "uh Tim... you're really showing your age". No, I've always had a love of music and admired accomplished musicians. Myron Floren played that accordion like it was joined at his hip! The Welk shows were always quality family entertainment and Mr. Floren played a vital role in that show's success. He'll be missed.

HEAT BREAK

2005-07-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

Ready for a break from the heat? After a week of 90 degree temperatures and Heat Index values from 105-115 degrees, we're finally in for a break.

A cold front will be moving into the Mid South Wednesday providing a decent chance of showers and a few thunderstorms. Temperatures will be about 10 degrees cooler than recent days.

By the way, despite this incredible week of heat, this is still one of the wettest July's in history! So far we've received 8.11" of rain which makes this the 6th wettest July in Memphis history. Who knows, with Wednesday's expected rainfall, we may move up on the list just a bit.

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for October!

2005-07-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

Here's one smart dog! Lora Moore of Bolivar sent this picture of her dog, Macy relaxing in the family pool.

Names

2005-07-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

Naming a dog can be a very difficult thing. If it's a Collie, Lassie is the odds on favorite, but why be predictable? Our Collies are both males, so Lassie isn't an option.

Many of you have sent in some good names. Here are just a few of the names: Ebony and Ivory, Piper, Harley, Runway, Laddie, Champ, Dakota and many more. The official naming committee for the dogs consists of our five kids. They'll have the final say so, but I'm doing some serious "arm bending".

Looks like we're leaning toward the name "Dakota" for one dog. I have a favorite but it's not going over that well with the kids. The name "Brinkley" comes from the movie "You've Got Mail" with Tom Hanks. Stay tuned...

New Arrivals

2005-07-18T15:38:00.000-07:00

At our house when we talk about new arrivals, that's my que to stock up on diapers! However, this past weekend, that was not the case.

My wife and I had a very faithful dog for over 13 years. His name was Hoover. We had him put to sleep when he started having kidney failure. That's always a tough thing to do. Hoover was just a little mixed breed, or mut, but he was our mut.

We've had a couple of bad dog experiences since Hoover, but now we're trying a couple of sweet collie pups. These dogs come from a reputable breeder in Jackson, TN. We drove the family to Jackson last week and saw that there were 3 remaining pups. We picked our favorite but I told my wife that we might consider purchasing 2 puppies. I'm sure you can imagine what kind of look I got for that statement.

One puppy would be bored. Two puppies can keep each other occupied. We decided on two pups. They are 5 weeks old and about as cute as you can imagine. Our kitten didn't know what to make of the new arrivals and the pups didn't seem interested in their new feline friend. That was Friday night! By Saturday afternoon the kitten was on the attack and the once sedate puppies roared to life! Their steps are awkward but they are very fiesty.

Our kids are very happy with the new arrivals but we need two good names. I've suggested "Thunder" and "Lightning" but that got a thumbs down from the kids. If you have any suggestions, e-mail me at tim.simpson@wreg.com. I'll let you know what name the kids choose.

2005-07-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

Our little kitten loves to pick fights with the new puppies, even though the pups always get the best of him.

2005-07-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

Puppy #2. Very cute.

2005-07-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

Puppy #1. So far the kids are calling him "Bear" because he is so big.

HOTTEST DAY IN MEMPHIS

2005-07-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

It was 25 years ago today that Memphis recorded the hottest temperature ever for our city: 108 degrees!

Hurricane Dennis wasn't much of a menace by the time it reached Memphis this past Monday. We generally received 1-3" of rain, which was much less than the advertised 2-6". However, the rain from Dennis did put a dent in our summer drought. We're still over 8" behind normal in the rainfall department for the year to date.

All eyes are on the next tropical system, Emily.

Miscellaneous

2005-07-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is the answer to the question, "Which ones are Simpson kids"? (You can see the picture if you scroll down) Kids 2, 3, 5 & 6 are mine.

All eyes are on Hurricane Dennis this weekend, forecast to hit the Gulf Coast on Sunday. If the computer models are correct, this storm could move into the Memphis area by Monday, bringing some beneficial rain. Our weather team will be on the alert this weekend.

Final note: I received an e-mail from one of my former college professors today. He was my Voice & Diction teacher and helped me train my speaking voice. I've always appreciated him and his influence. That training has made a big difference in my career.

2005-07-08T20:50:00.000-07:00

Betty Jones provided this beautiful picture of Old Glory.

2005-07-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

Here's a great picture of fireworks in Memphis on the 4th of July. This picture was taken by John McCollum.

2005-07-01T19:24:00.000-07:00

How many of these kids have Simpson for a last name? If you think you know, drop me an e-mail at tim.simpson@wreg.com. Look for the answer next week.

2005-06-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

Brownie Troop 390 dropped by this evening for a tour of the weather office. They brought some of my favorite Girl Scout cookies!

2005-06-28T19:20:00.000-07:00

Former News Channel 3 intern Sarah Haley with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

INTERNSHIPS

2005-06-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

Experience is a good teacher. That's why many businesses have opportunities for high school and college students to work as interns. These positions usually last for only a couple of months, but the knowledge and experience gained during that time can be invaluable.

In my 20 years of tv work I've seen quite a few interns, but Sarah Haley of Memphis has to be one of best I've ever met. She is professional, smart and driven to success. I have no doubt that she'll be a household name someday.

These days you'll find Sarah interning for the Fox News Channel in New York where she gets to meet some very interesting people.

2005-06-23T19:01:00.000-07:00

Recent visitors to the News Channel 3 weather office were (l to r) Tatum Nix, Kendall Landon and Conner Nix. We had a great visit!

WELL RESTED

2005-06-21T15:02:00.000-07:00

I'm back at 'em after a week of vacation. Leah and the kids spent two weeks in the Carolinas, then I flew up to join them for the drive back to Memphis.

As a kid, I always enjoyed Gatlinburg, so we stopped by for a few days. Our first stop was DOLLYWOOD! If you've never visited Dollywood, you're in for a treat. It's fun for the whole family. Our kids had a blast enjoying the rides AND the number of great shows that were available. Kids Fest is currently running through August, so I'd highly recommend a trip to Dollywood.

The next day we visited Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This was a real learning experience for our family. It's a way to get up close and personal with sharks, sting rays, sea horses, etc. There is so much information to digest that you could easily spend a couple of days at the aquarium.

If you like music, drop by the Louise Mandrell Theater. Louise put on one of the best shows that I've ever seen by a single performer. During the two hour show, she played a number of instruments and put on some dancing moves that were incredible. My wife and I were blown away by her talent. Better hurry though, Louise's last show will be New Year's Eve, then she's moving back to Nashville.

After leaving Gatlinburg, we drove to north Alabama and stayed with some very dear friends. We took the kids to the Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville. Once again, another learning experience for the kiddos. There are many "hands on" exhibits and you'll get a greater appreciation for NASA and those early days of rocketry. If you're looking for a day of fun and learning, then check out the Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville.

As always, it's good to be home, even if our freezer went on the blink while we were on vacation. But that my friends is another blog!

2005-06-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

T.J. (red shirt) enjoyed a week of camp at The WILDS in Rosman, NC. His counselor was R.J. Wetherbee from Middleton, TN, pictured on the far left.

2005-06-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

The Simpsons invade Dollywood for a memorable day of fun and adventure.

2005-06-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

Mikayla enjoys one of the displays at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.

2005-06-21T14:52:00.000-07:00

Another shot from Ripley's Aquarium in the Smokies.

2005-06-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

The Simpson kids enjoy a cool dip in the Pigeon River near Gatlinburg. This was BEFORE they spotted a snake!

2005-06-21T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a shot of the stream AFTER the kids spotted a snake.

2005-06-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

We met Louise Mandrell backstage after seeing her incredible stage show. What an entertainer! Our kids were "wowed" by her musical abilities. She encouraged them to continue with piano lessons and practice, practice, practice.

2005-06-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

The kids enjoyed a visit to the Space & Rocket Center in Hunsville, AL. Katie, Joshua and Joseph get a feel for an Apollo space capsule.

A WEEK OFF

2005-06-17T20:23:00.000-07:00

I've been off this week and enjoying a change of pace. I haven't kept up with really anything, which is totally out of character for me. However, I logged on to the internet tonight and saw one story that caught my eye. The story was on the Sweatiest Cities in America. You guessed it: Memphis made the list!

According to this survey released by none other than Old Spice, (do guys still wear that stuff?) Memphis is #27 on the list. That's actually an improvement from 2002 when Memphis was rated at #7. I don't know how we made the improvement from #7 to #27 except that sales of anti perspirant must be higher in Memphis. Go figure!

I've had a good week traveling through the Carolinas, the moutains of east Tennessee and even north Alabama, but it's always good to get back home. Besides, my grass needs mowing! I'm back at work next week. See ya then!

FRIDAY

2005-06-10T18:37:00.000-07:00

I was at St. Paul United Methodist Church today with the River City Trio. We had a great time singing for these senior adults and they seemed to really appreciate our visit. We even had a few converts today: Some converted from "another station" to News Channel 3.

It's a little early, but Tropical Storm Arlene is knocking on our doorstep. The computer models have this storm in north Alabama by 12 noon on Sunday. This is just an estimate, but if that track varies slightly westward, we might be able to catch up on the rain that we missed during May.

Our chopper pilot, Jim York, was by the weather office this afternoon. He enjoys having easy access to our one million watt radar. Someone recently described Jim as "meticulous". Let me tell ya, I want someone "meticulous" when it comes to flying a helicopter. Those things can be a handful!

Have a great weekend.

FOOTBALL SEASON

2005-06-07T16:25:00.000-07:00

As I get older and approach the summer months, I really look forward to football season. To me, it's a sign that cooler weather is on the way. Don't get me wrong, I love baseball, but it's played during the hottest part of the year. I can watch football when it's 65 degrees in October!

I have always been a Green Bay Packers fan for some reason. I liked Bart Starr as a kid. My brother and I were also Dallas Cowboy fans when we were teenagers. We loved to watch Roger Staubach rally the team in the 4th quarter to pull out the win. How many times did that happen? It seemed like almost every Sunday. I parted ways with the Cowboys when Jerry Jones bought the team and fired Tom Landry.

Professional football just doesn't have any appeal to me these days.

Now bring on the college football teams. I'll spend any Saturday on the couch watching a good college game. I lived in Alabama for almost 7 years and I have to tell ya, those folks WORSHIP football. Alot of those fans would put Bear Bryant right up there with Moses--or even higher! Let's just say that they REALLY take their football seriously in Bama.

I'm a Tennesse Volunteers fan, but I've also become a U of M Tiger fan too. I'm impressed with Coach Tommy West and what he's done in Memphis. He's taken a mediocre program and turned them into winners. This guy is the ultimate football coach. West is smart, quick witted, has the ability to take players under his wing and guide them. The players respect him.

I introduced Coach West at a Memphis Chamber of Commerce breakfast several years ago. He was dressed in a sports coat, slacks, dress shoes, but no socks! You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the boy.

With the hot days of summer upon us, this is one guy who can't wait for football season to begin.

2005-06-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

Thunderstorms rumbled through the Mid South on Monday producing heavy rain and high winds. Tanner Cade of Cordva sent this picture taken at approximately 10:50am, when the storms were moving through.

HOT WEATHER

2005-06-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

The official start of Summer may be a couple of weeks away, but I think it's safe to say that the season has begun in Memphis. We're in for a hot and humid week with mainly scattered afternoon thundertorms.

I was at the Germantown Horse Show this afternoon. It's a great family event that runs through Saturday. You'll see all kinds of horses including Tennessee Walking horses. Prices are $5 for adults and $3 for kids. If you've never been treated to this show, make it a priority. You and your kids will love it.

EARTHQUAKE

2005-06-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

This morning's earthquake was an unexpected wake up call for many Mid Southerners. The quake occurred around 6:30AM and registered 4.0 on the Richter scale. I received several e-mails from viewers who were alerted to the quake by their pets!

One gentleman from Cordova told me that his parrot, named Elvis, was quite rattled by the earthquake. It startled him and the bird flew from an open perch around the room. The last time this happened was when an earthquake was centered in the Blytheville area several months back.

Just for the record, I DID NOT feel the earthquake and obviously neither did my dog, Forrest. He was stretched out in the middle of the floor, in exactly the same spot he assumed at bed time last night.

RAIN

2005-06-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

May 2005 was the 5th driest May ever on record here in Memphis. Matter of fact, Jonesboro, Jackson and Tupelo DID have the driest month of May ever. June 1st is a different story.

While the rain amounts aren't that impressive here in downtown Memphis, counties east of Memphis did quite well in the rainfall department. Savannah, TN, has recorded 3.70" of rain since midnight!

June 1st is also the officiall beginning of Hurricane season. While Memphis isn't on an ocean coast line, hurricanes can still pack a punch by the time they reach the Mid South. And we found out last year what these storms can do to our favorite beach destinations. I hope it's a quiet year for hurricanes, but that's probably wishful thinking.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

2005-05-31T18:35:00.000-07:00

Those of us who deal with the public everyday know that the "customer is king". In my job that means being courteous to callers. I also strive to reply to every e-mail in my in box, even those who complain about missing a program due to severe weather coverage.

Let's face it, there are many choices these days for television viewers. If they have a positive experience with me or any of my co-workers, then chances are, they'll watch News Channel 3.

I love going to Starbucks. Their coffee is great and their employees are always friendly. It makes me want to go back for another visit.

I bought a video editing computer recently from Pro Media in Cordova, because of their reputation for customer service. I haven't been disappointed.

People who know me will attest to this fact: I am a very positive person. If I get a good meal at your restaurant, I'll be the first to tell you. On the other hand, if things aren't what they should be, in a nice way, I'll tell you that too.

I was in a West Memphis eating establishment last week. A buddy of mine and I waited about 15 minutes for a waiter. Then once our order was taken, it was another 20-25 minute wait for the food. When the food came, the main entree was small enough to be classified as a "side item".

The manager came around toward the end of the meal and asked, "how was everything tonight"? We just looked at each other and grinned. Then, in a nice way, we told him our experience. The manager looked at us and said: "Well thanks for coming guys". Then he moved on to the next table.

The manager really wasn't interested in what we had to say and it showed. How do I know? This was the third time in a row that something like this happened at this particular restaurant. Obviously no steps had been taken to make things better. Bottom line: I won't go back.

I bought a shirt for a friend's birthday today. I checked the price tag and noticed that it was on the 25% off rack. I bought it and when I got to my car, I looked at the receipt. Not only did I NOT receive the 25% discount, the shirt rang up for $2 more than the marked price. The manager made it right and gave me a refund, but wasn't too happy about it. I'll probably shop there again, but if I'm a business owner or manager, I want my most "personable people" interacting with customers.

Customer service is not only necessary, but it's essential for any business to thrive!

2005-05-31T17:19:00.000-07:00

Christy Lee of Horn Lake, sent this picture of her nephew, Troy, enjoying his time with the water sprinkler on Memorial Day.

MEMORIAL DAY

2005-05-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day! Freedom is something that we often take for granted. The daily death toll from Iraq is a reminder that our freedom comes at a very high cost. For any veteran reading this blog, let me say "thank you" for your sacrifice and service for our country.

Todd Demers has been a great friend during my years here at News Channel 3. However, we work opposite shifts and don't see each other that often. That's why this weekend's golf game was so much fun. We flew from Memphis to Heber Springs, Arkansas, and played the golf course at the Red Apple Inn. What is usually a 3 hour drive took only 54 minutes in the airplane which allowed for more time on the golf course. It was a great trip!

GIVE MEN A BREAK

2005-05-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, from today's e-mail INBOX: It's time to rag on men.

My sister, Holly, sent me an interesting e-mail advertising NEW EVENING CLASSES FOR MEN. Here are some of the courses:

DAY ONE - How To Fill Ice Cube Trays & Learning How to Find Things.

DAY TWO - Real Men Ask For Directions When Lost, How To Be The Ideal Shopping Companion and Remembering Important Dates.

Then I get an e-mail from a viewer entitled WHY MEN DO NOT MAKE GOOD BABY SITTERS. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, well these pictures tell it all.

2005-05-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

It's tough to keep an eye on all the kids AND the magic markers.

2005-05-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

Why Men DO NOT make good baby sitters.

The Grill Masters

2005-05-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, Jim Jaggers isn't only a welcomed addition to our weather department--the guy can cook!

I've always been impressed with Jim's cooking skills, but this past weekend I dropped by to see how our resident "master chef" cooks up his great bar-b-que. Jim was actually cooking 7 pork shoulders for a church picnic. He walked me through every single step and explained it in such a simple way that even a bar-b-que novice like me can do it.

I do a decent job with burgers, but good bar-b-que on the backyard grill has always eluded me. There is definitely an art to it. My past attempts have tasted like LIGHTER FLUID! Fortunately those attempts were only served to my immediate family. My wonderful wife, never to speak a discouraging word, would simply smile and nod her head as she tried to get past the lighter fluid taste. Thanks honey! Remember, for better or for worse.

My brother-in-law cooks the best steaks I've ever eaten. He's a real grill master and loves to "tail gate" to all the Clemson home football games. I've been around him enough that you would think his cooking skills might rub off on me. They haven't. But I keep on trying!

We saw a few showers in Memphis this morning as a cold front dropped through the area. That cold front will provide slightly cooler temperatures for Tuesday and Wednesday with highs in the low 80s.

RECORD HIGH

2005-05-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

I held my breath earlier this week. The last episode of EVERYBODY LOVES RAYMOND aired and fortunately we didn't have Tornado Warnings!

Memphis set a record high temperature of 94 degrees on Friday. Thank goodness a cold front has come through and will cool us down on Saturday.

The Atlantic Hurricane season officially begins on June 1st. Experts are predicting another very active year. In 2004, Florida was hammered by 4 hurricanes. The Simpson family beach vacation was even cancelled thanks to hurricane damage at Gulf Shores. Hopefully, we'll make up for that this year.

Have a great weekend!

2005-05-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

Memphis In May Bar-B-Que Championship. I'm talking bar-b-que, politics and photography with John Willingham.

2005-05-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

Bob Blackwell took these pictures at Pickwick last Saturday as a cold front moved through the area.

2005-05-16T15:59:00.000-07:00

Pickwick Lake, May 14, 2005. Taken by Bob Blackwell.

2005-05-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Pickwick Lake, Saturday, May 14, 2005. Taken by Bob Blackwell.

May 2005

2005-05-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

The weather during the month of May has been all over the road. Just last Wednesday, Memphis tied a record high temperature at 90 degrees. The following day we surpassed a record high temperature that had stood since 1880. We hit 93 degrees on May 12th. Just two days later, we struggled to see highs in the 70s. Sound confusing?

After a relaxing weekend I decided to hit the yard this morning. I went outside in my work shorts and shirt with my coffee in hand. After surveying the outdoor situation with my collie, Forrest, I decided to go back inside and put on a jacket! Yep, this sure doesn't seem like May. It was quite cool this morning.

To me, there's nothing more relaxing than hearing the hum of the riding mower, while breathing a healthy dose of dust and pollen. My kids were all over the yard playing while I was mowing, so I always have to keep a close watch. That's where Forrest the dog comes in. He's very alert to where the kids are playing. If he senses any danger, he cuts loose with one of his loud barks.

I broke down this year and decided to buy some Claritin, to help alleviate all the sniffing and sneezing from what has to be allergies. I've never been tested, but I always seem to have cold like symptoms during the same time each year.

I enjoyed my annual trek to the bar-b-que festival last week. It always inspires me to be a better outdoor grillmaster! But I can't wait for Riverside Drive to open again! I've tried about four or five different ways to come to work, but I prefer taking Riverside Drive, since it's the quickest. Memphis In May is great, but next year I'd like to see them move the event to Germantown Parkway! Try closing that road for a month. :)

BASEBALL & BAR-B-QUE

2005-05-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

I have been active all my life! Whether it was diving for a line drive in a Babe Ruth league baseball game or running the "snow bird" on the basketball court, I have always enjoyed playing sports.

But during the past few years I curtailed a lot of my activities due to the number of children lining up at the dinner table in our home. It takes time to work and raise a family these days. My primary sports activity became the Memphis MSBL (Men's Senior Baseball Leageue). It's a league for over 30 guys to play baseball, you know, sliders, sinkers, curve balls, etc. I played for 5 years and had a great time.

So here we are in 2005. My wife says, "you're still in good shape. Why don't you join another sports team"? So for the first time in 20 years I am now playing on a softball team.

I have to be completely honest--I've never viewed softball as much of a challenge. The balls are pitched so slowly that you may as well put 'em on a tee! But the softball field is very close to my house and I'm playing with a great group of guys.

Our first game was this past Saturday night. I was rusty since I hadn't played in a while, but I got back in the groove fairly quickly. It was a lot of fun, even though I could hardly walk when I woke up Sunday morning! (gotta stretch out better next time)

I'll have to plan for more stretching and more exercise this week. The Memphis In May World Championship Bar-B-Que festival is this week. We'll be doing live shots from Tom Lee Park promoting the event and tasting a few samples is just part of my job. It's tough job but someone has to do it.

My personal favorite has always been BIG BOB GIBSON'S from Decatur, AL. I always enjoyed eating there when we lived in Alabama. They won the grand championship at Memphis In May several years ago, so you can bet that they'll be back again this year. I'll be ready!

HAPPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2005-05-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

Moms are truly special. My mother, due to the fact that I was in the family, was seriously challenged from the moment I made my arrival. I remember all the birthday cakes. She sewed clothes for me, came to my ballgames, and made sure I was in church every Sunday.

Mom always knew what to do when I ate too much chocolate and... well, you know, got sick. Even years later when I had both knee surgeries, Mom was there.

In 1991, I tore the ACL in my left knee. My wife was pregnant with our first child and since she had miscarried twice, I thought she should get a good night's sleep. My mother volunteered to stay with me that first night at the hospital.

I was very groggy and in quite a bit of pain, but needed to get out of bed and visit the little boys room. Mom offered to help me get out of bed. "Whatever you do, make sure we keep my leg straight" I said. Fresh out of surgery, I just couldn't bear the pain of bending my knee.

Things were going smoothly as I manuevered out of bed, Mom holding my leg straight. Then I accidentally knocked over a cup of water on a nearby table. Mom instinctively reached for the spilled water, dropping my leg completely! So much for avoiding pain. It was a scene right out of a LAUREL & HARDY episode! It wasn't funny then, but now we get a big laugh out of that incident.

Now to my wife, mother of our FIVE kids. Leah was raised as a missionary kid and never had a lot of money growing up. When I met her during her senior year of college, she was working as a waitress at Ryan's Steakhouse and also ran her own home cleaning service. She knew the meaning of work and the value of a dollar.

If I knew then what I know now about that pretty blonde, I would have moved up our wedding date. She is organized, hard working, thoughtful and selfless. She'll buy for the kids and me before she would ever think of buying for herself.

She keeps a clean house, believes in eating healthy, homeschools our kids, always takes time to read to them, cleans up their messes, and wants to have a good Christian home. She is an amazing woman, especially since she has to put up with me.

We've had some great times and it's fun watching our kids grow. Sometimes it gets very loud, but it's still a lot of fun.

So to my wife, I say HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2005-05-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

NBA Hall of Famer and Middleton High graduate, Bailey Howell. (picture courtesy of the NBA)

2005-05-04T15:21:00.001-07:00

The 1992 Class A State Basketball Champs, Middleton High School.

2005-05-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

The 1980 Class A State Basketball Champs, Middleton High School.

STATE CHAMPS VS. STATE CHAMPS

2005-05-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

My hometown, Middleton, TN, may be a small town of only 650 people, but it has a large basketball heritage.

The most famous player ever to wear a Middleton High School basketball uniform is NBA Hall of Famer, Bailey Howell. Bailey played basketball at Middleton in the early 1950s and later went on to Mississippi State, where some of his records still stand to this day. His NBA career began in Detroit and Bailey later played for the world champion Boston Celtics.

His mother, Martha Howell, was a teacher at Middleton High School. His father, Walter Howell, was a mail carrier and resident song writer. Mr. Walter had a real love of Gospel music.

In those days, chewing gum in class was about the worst offense happening at the local school. I can remember Mrs. Howell starting class one morning when one of the students asked, "what kind of game did Bailey have last night against the Lakers"? Mrs. Howell was determined NOT to fall into that trap. She stated that she was going to teach the assigned lesson...then she began to tell the class about Bailey's play the night before! Before you knew it, the bell rang and class was over. She was such a sweet woman and a wonderful teacher.

The 1950s stand out because of Bailey's play. By the 1970s, Coach Marvin Day was at the helm of the local basketball team and the consolidation of the Middleton and Grand Junction schools, provided even more basketball talent for Middleton.

By 1976 Coach Day had a player named Jesse Parks. Jesse had a vertical leap of a reported 42"! At only 6'3", Jesse played the center position and dunked the ball with ease over opposing teams. Middleton went to the state tournament in March of 1977 but lost in the first round to Knoxville Catholic. I remember that game well--I was on that team.

In 1978, Jesse's cousin, Bobby Parks came on the Middleton basketball scene. By his senior year, 1980, Middleton returned to the state tournament and won the Class A title with help from James Burkley, the team's long range bomber. Bobby's career continued with the Memphis State Tigers. While Tiger standout Keith Lee received much attention during those years, I like to think that Bobby was the steady "go to" player that never missed a lick. He was a pleasure to watch on any basketball court.

By 1992, Middleton returned to the state tournament and won with the help of standout Stevie Hamer, who later played for the University of Tennessee. Middleton High graduate Larry Smalley, coached the team and claimed his first State Championship.

In March of 2005, Coach Smalley led the Middleton Tigers back to the "big dance". The team thrashed each opponent in Murfreesboro enroute to yet another Class A state title. Marcus Murden won MVP honors as the Tigers did it again.

Why write about Middleton basketball history? Because this Saturday night in Middleton, at the Bailey Howell Gymnasium, the 1980 state champs will take on the 1992 state champs. It will be an opportunity for many fans to re-live basketball history. Tip off is at 6pm. Go Tigers!

2005-05-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

This home in Bells, TN, was damaged in the November 9, 2002, tornado. Picture courtesy of the National Weather Service.

TORNADO COVERAGE SAVES LIVES

2005-05-02T15:58:00.000-07:00

I count myself very fortunate. I love my job, have a great family and try to be a good citizen. But sometimes I have to take the heat that comes with my weather job.

Last Friday night, April 29th, the National Weather Service in Memphis issued Tornado Warnings for Panola, then Lafayette counties in north Mississippi. As is our policy, we broke into our normal programming to provide residents of these counties with severe weather information. Unfortunately, the season ending episode of JAG was on at that time. You can imagine some of the e-mails I received!

While none of the e-mails wished me bodily harm, some folks did ask me to move to another city! One guy told me that he thought I was "padding my resume for a move to a network position". Many viewers pointed out that we didn't have bad weather in Memphis so why interrupt JAG? We broke in with our weather coverage because two of our counties had been placed under Tornado Warnings by the National Weather Service and were facing life threatening tornadoes.

My experience has taught me through the years that viewers in the path of a tornado don't really care about the score of the football game or who will be voted off the island. They want to know where the tornado is located and where it's going.

On January 17, 1999, we received many complaints about interrupting the AFC Championship Football game. However, the folks in Jackson, TN, who were watching News Channel 3 were hanging on our every word. Nine people were killed that night and I can't tell you how many letters and phone calls we received thanking us for the extended weather coverage.

On November 9, 2002, we broke into programming to warn people in Crockett and Madison counties about dangerous tornadoes that had been spotted. We stayed on the air until the threat was gone. That next day is a day that I will never forget.

We were doing an aerial survey of the damage in Crockett county when we spotted a farm that took a direct hit from the tornado. We decided to land and get a close up inspection. Upon getting out of the helicopter, an elderly gentleman spotted me and started walking briskly in my direction. At that point I wasn't sure if he was going to shake my hand or slug me!

Standing next to his home which had been totally destroyed, he related the story of the previous night's event. He said that he heard the storm and decided to switch over to News Channel 3. He saw the tornado on our radar approaching his rural community. He grabbed his grandsons and ran outside to the storm shelter.

Within minutes he heard the tornado's roar and felt the ground shake as his farm took a direct hit from this F2 rated tornado. When they emerged from the shelter, he saw what was left of his home. It was completely destroyed.

Even though this man lost his home and many of his possessions, he didn't lose his life and he credits News Channel 3 for the advance warning. This is a prime example of why our tornado coverage is so critical for people in the path of these killer storms.

In a tornadic event, the ticker at the bottom of the screen can't tell the whole story. We've made a commitment to be the station on your side in severe weather, and that's not limited to Memphis and Shelby county.

If you weren't threatened by last Friday night's storms, don't worry, we'll show you the same consideration if and when a tornado threatens your town or city.

Thanks for watching News Channel 3. The Memphis station ON YOUR SIDE!

2005-04-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Judy Tutor of Batesville, MS and her sister, Dianne Morton of Shreveport, LA, were recent guests at News Channel 3. Judy recently installed Weather Bug at her office in Batesville and it alerted her to a Tornado Warning in Panola county.