Twister sisters storm chase show on WE [Archive]

Karen Politte

12-03-2007, 02:52 PM

What a freakin joke.....you want to do a show on storm chasing? That's fine....but it's very very sad to see it turned into a soap opera.

LOL. I didn't even need to read that. All I needed was on the very first page. When I see a storm chasing docu/drama advertised right next to programs such as "Hair Drama - Family bonding in an upscale New York salon", I reach for the vomit bag. I think I'll be tuning out.

Also, you'd think that someone who designs these shows and their associated websites would eventually realize that their ends would be far better reached by putting real tornadoes in pictures, rather than pathetic, airbrushed PoSs. But - who am I to say? >shrug<

KL

Jeff Miller

12-03-2007, 03:08 PM

What a freakin joke.....you want to do a show on storm chasing? That's fine....but it's very very sad to see it turned into a soap opera.

"As The Nader Turns"....

...This is exactly what I do not want to see - drama between an ex-husband and an ex-wife getting a 16 year old teenager in the middle of a fray as two storm chasers head for a tornado. Ridiculous, in my opinion. It takes the focus off the storm and weather and puts it on family conflict with the storm somehow being in there somewhere along the way.

Replace the ex-husband with Homer, the ex-wife with Marge, the 16-year old with Lisa and it might, might, might be something of a little higher quality. You can also count me out, I will not be watching.

Graham Butler

12-03-2007, 03:12 PM

I loved the photo of the father, in the bar, with his 16 year old daughter; he looks hammered. Now what kind of image and morals are they portraying. Hell, if that was one of the few shots they had to use then I will be watching the grass grow in the backyard while this airs.

Graham

Doug_Kiesling

12-03-2007, 03:23 PM

Jeff Miller

12-03-2007, 03:27 PM

I had no idea Tony, etc. and other chasers were involved. Perhaps I rushed in judgement.

I'll take a wait and see attitude on this.

Verne Carlson

12-03-2007, 03:28 PM

Those two are going to get pretty soaked in that soft top Jeep! LOL
http://twistersisters.wetv.com/

Jonathan Behle

12-03-2007, 03:34 PM

Doug_Kiesling

12-03-2007, 03:37 PM

I had no idea Tony, etc. and other chasers were involved. Perhaps I rushed in judgement.

I'll take a wait and see attitude on this.

There have a lot of people in the show with them. Here is the bio list

http://twistersisters.wetv.com/bios.php

Doug_Kiesling

12-03-2007, 03:53 PM

The Sean Casey/TIV show's popularity on the Discovery Channel is going to create some spinoffs! Get ready for these! However, I'm sure a few notable chasers (many who post in here) will be getting offers soon, I personally would hope for a show more about what us hardcore weather junkies want to see, but television is all about getting a large amount of people to watch for advertisers, and in the grand scheme of things, we are a small percentage of people, so my hopes are not up

I don't know about spin offs since a lot of these shows that are coming out are done months in advance and I know they were locked in last year. If you think about it, why does TLC and Bravo have show on the air about flipping houses when the market is in the tank now? They were all planned out at least a year ago and shot 6 months ago. If you remember back in the late 90s and 2000, there were shows about people day trading and then the market when bust. Not going to say the weather will go bust but just pointing out that these shows are planned well in advance.

I keep getting asked about doing something like this but in all honesty, the pay is not the greatest and your money is in the merchandising and marketing if the show takes off. The draw back, you have a camera crew in your face 24/7 and getting in the way of your chasing and slowing you down and in some cases, costing you the storm itself.

I remember during hurricane frances, we had a crew from Germany with to document the hurricane. One of the crew members got scared and wanted to go and was crying about that he did not sign up to die. The last thing I would want is someone ruining a great chase day because they were scared of the weather.

For the hard core weather junkies, your better off buying the DVD's from people or watching amazing video shows that feature the footage on networks like spike tv.

Tony Laubach

12-03-2007, 04:27 PM

I don't know, it can't be any worse then watching a 4 part bust on Discovery Channel. I know it's not all about Peggy and Mel. Tony Laubach is in it along with Bill Dooms, Eric Whitehill and a lot of others.

If anything I have to give them credit for including a lot of other people in the project when it could have been all about them.

From what I hear, Bill's 9 year old son is actually the star of the show.

Myself and my good friend/chase partner, Jon Van de Grift, co-star in the finale in episode 6 (I believe)... we are curious as to exactly how we're portrayed in this show. We've had our theories, and the best we came up with is a couple of money-grubbing homos. And we have no reason to think that, more of a joke considering our big TV debute is on Women's Entertainment as opposed to something like SpikeTV. To go along with the joke, we were also thinking about renting out a big-name sportsbar in Denver and have them pull whatever sporting events they're showing to put on Women's Entertainment for us. We're taking bets on how long it will take before we get our @$$es kicked! :D

In all seriousness, we had a great time putting this together. Our cameraman who was with us probably got more than he bargined for as the weather during our week was rather quiet. We took him swimming across southwest Nebraska in numerous floods, so needless to say Jon and I got him a bit soaked. We had some interesting sidebars that I'm anxious to see how (and if) they used them. Mr. McLean, the goomba mascot I hauled around all year, may also get a fun cameo in the show as well. We had to do our share of acting at times, but nothing terribly over-the-top.. at least not from a soap opera perspective... more of an "excitement for what we're seeing" whether we were really bored or not! Hahaha!

So no idea what to expect, but a lot of fun throwing it all together! We're looking forward to it!

Melanie Metz

12-03-2007, 05:23 PM

I have to agree, we would get pretty soaked in that jeep! But I do like the effort the graphic artists put into that website.

As for the show, it will be a surprise for all of us. Peggy and I just did what we do when we give chase tours and the film crew filmed it, along with the stories of a few other chasers (as has been mentioned already).

It will be interesting to see how they edit a full week of chasing into one hour! I know they decided to include the human element by focusing on the lives of the tour guests. I think they figured it would capture an audience outside of just the storm chasing community. I mean, how many storm chasers will be watching the WE channel after all?

It was a fun experience but extremely exhausting. As was mentioned, the film crew was in for more than they expected!

I enjoyed spending time with other chasers in the show and being on the road chasing for 7 weeks straight in May and June.

I appreciate that other respected chasers took time to participate in the show and I really hope this does not turn out to be a negative experience. If there are any issues or complaints about the show, please write to me personally. I am happy to discuss any concerns you might have about how this show will portray storm chasing and those of us who chase because it is our passion.

Peggy and I always make an effort to send a positive message to the public about storm chasers. We also try to promote severe weather safety and science. I'm just not sure what will come across in the final cuts of the episodes!

For those of you who are interested, enjoy the show!

And thank you again to all of you on this list who participated. I really enjoyed your company and the experience we all got to share.

Thank you,
Melanie

Tony Laubach

12-03-2007, 05:41 PM

As for the show, it will be a surprise for all of us. Peggy and I just did what we do when we give chase tours and the film crew filmed it, along with the stories of a few other chasers (as has been mentioned already).

I mean, how many storm chasers will be watching the WE channel after all?

I appreciate that other respected chasers took time to participate in the show and I really hope this does not turn out to be a negative experience. If there are any issues or complaints about the show, please write to me personally. I am happy to discuss any concerns you might have about how this show will portray storm chasing and those of us who chase because it is our passion.

I'm just not sure what will come across in the final cuts of the episodes!

Uh oh.. the disclaimer's out! We're doomed to complete humiliation on WE... *hides* :D Only the shadow knows of what's to come. I'm just teasin'... I have to... imagine the WE heat I'm catching *coughDOUGcough* (no pun intended)! I have to have an outlet for it! Hahaha.

We're looking forward to it... seems like its been forever already! I'm dying to see what they did with Mr. McLean if they used those bits. It'll be fun!

John Olexa

12-03-2007, 05:53 PM

What the heck is "WE" channel???

Jeff Miller

12-03-2007, 06:08 PM

Womens Entertainment, John.

I have a feeling Tony Laubach is gonna have a ton of female groupies and fans when this show is done :D

Get a fansite ready, Tony! ;)

Tony Laubach

12-03-2007, 06:16 PM

Womens Entertainment, John.

I have a feeling Tony Laubach is gonna have a ton of female groupies and fans when this show is done :D

Get a fansite ready, Tony! ;)

Best part is, I get soaking wet on numerous occasions... yeah, I can see it now! Hahaha... oh boy! :D

John Olexa

12-03-2007, 06:46 PM

Oh Ok . Ah, I have that channel.

Adam Lucio

12-03-2007, 07:50 PM

I will probably DVR them, I thought I didnt have that channel at first but now noticed that I do...Im always curious to see any show about storm chasing, I just want to see storm footage mostly. Bill and Tony are two of the nicest chasers Ive chatted with so I hope for their sake there is no footage of them running around in a balarina outfit :p

...although I would get a good laugh out of it.

Doug_Kiesling

12-03-2007, 08:35 PM

Best part is, I get soaking wet on numerous occasions... yeah, I can see it now! Hahaha... oh boy! :D

I bet you do...

So your a famous TV star now... ROTFLMAO.

http://www.bnvn.net/blog/images/WX_Spoof.jpg

Created by Disco Weather Images...

Tony Laubach

12-03-2007, 08:46 PM

I bet you do...

So your a famous TV star now... ROTFLMAO.

http://www.bnvn.net/blog/images/WX_Spoof.jpg

Created by Disco Weather Images...

Doug calls me nearly crying from laughing so hard... I knew I was in trouble then... by the end of the call, I was doing the same. Holy crap, that's hilarious!!!

Jeff Miller

12-03-2007, 10:08 PM

That weather magazine is the funniest thing I have ever seen!!! That is absolutely hilarious!!! Great work, Doug.

What's not so great are the advertisements on We TV tonight I have seen while watching "Father of The Bride II". On these advertisements for the upcoming show, I see stock footage of the Attica tornado, the Manchester, SD tornado, and other STOCK footage that can in no way be related to the adventures we shall see on this show. No doubt that viewers will be expecting to see this kind of footage with this show - which of course they wont because these were videotaped many years ago. One thing I can't stand is misleading advertising, and this certainly seems like misleading advertising to me. Not a good way to hype me up for this for sure.

Doug Lee

12-03-2007, 10:10 PM

I'd like to see the ad on the back cover of that magazine.....

Anyone for weather stations in designer colors? How about chaser equipment tote bags?

Tony Laubach

12-03-2007, 10:55 PM

Doug_Kiesling

12-05-2007, 12:56 PM

Here is another Spoof since he has been getting so much air time on TWC that I thought he was running for office in Iowa... :-)

http://www.bnvn.net/blog/images/blakespoof_big.jpg

When Blake Changed History... by walking into my shot as I was trying to film the big waves during Hurricane Dennis.

Blake Michaleski

12-05-2007, 10:03 PM

LOL!!!!

yeah I get more air time than Jim Cantore these days...

And I didn't 'walk into your shot' you told me to get in your shot!:D

Cliff Windham

12-10-2007, 12:53 PM

When watching the premier episode of The Twister Sisters on WeTV Tuesday 12/11/07 at 10PM ET/9PM CT, keep an eye out for screen shots of Mobile Threat Net by Baron Services. Melanie and Peggy tell me they, like many others, depend upon Mobile Threat Net as an important chase tool. You can hear an audio report by them, as well as by Tim Samaras and Jeff Piotrowski at www.mobilethreatnet.com. If anyone needs a new Mobile Threat Net system or more information about it, please contact, Cliff Windham, Regional Manager, Baron Services, at 256-881-8811 or threatnet@baronservices.com. Regards, Cliff

Steve Miller OK

12-11-2007, 07:30 PM

That's hilarious Mike.
Hey - does anyone know what channel this is in OKC. I have Cox cable and have been searching for it with no luck. Any help out there?

Wow - I see we have a disappearing post problem hereon ST again. Prior to my post was a post by Mike Peregrine. Anyone happen to know where that post went?
This board gets more and more screwed up every time I log in.

Jayson Prentice

12-11-2007, 09:06 PM

Much like the TIV series and their fake looking radar images of the storms; WE has came up with a small mini-hurricane to display the location of the storms. We need to get somebody that is good with graphics to help these channels out with their production of 'realistic' radar/satellite graphics.

Jeff Miller

12-11-2007, 09:18 PM

One plus so far - the EAS tones for language bleeps. Genius. :)

Verne Carlson

12-11-2007, 09:20 PM

What actual chase day was this first episode? Can't tell yet, something in sw KS - nice funnel so far.

okay that was the Plainview/Silverton, TX tornado of March 28th - so why are the graphics showing sw KS?? Why can't the producers stick to the actual dates and locations!

okay I give up trying to tell what is where, the mom and daughter's outfits just changed between scenes on the same drive.

I mostly enjoyed the show - nice little SDS break!

Skip Talbot

12-11-2007, 09:21 PM

The show is not even half way over and I'm already thoroughly disappointed. Its the same crappy graphics, and erroneous narration that's in every other show: "Its not a tornado until the funnel touches the ground..." and the show has further perpetrated the deadly myth that overpasses are a good place to seek shelter. I like the Twister Sisters and enjoy following the chase from their (and others) perspective... but the show itself truly is terrible.

Dan Cook

12-11-2007, 10:04 PM

How lame...using Reed Timmer's Moore 99 video as the mom 'overpass' tornado.

Doug_Kiesling

12-11-2007, 10:11 PM

Ok just watched the first show. I give it 2 thumbs up with the only draw back of a little over acting but that looks like something the editors could have done to spice it up. There were some parts that audio was hard to hear that could have used more of the on screen text (hail and voice) and the too loud background music.

It is about 1000 times better then the Discovery Channel show about storm chasers even if the sponsors is the EPT (Easy P***Y Test) "The most advanced piece of equipment you will ever pee on" is what the commercial said.

But, the fact that it was on WE TV is the only thing that is different since it is gear towards a different audence. Ignore that fact, it is probably one of the best storm chasing shows ever produced to date. This could be on Discovery Channel, Learning Channel or Nat Geo.

Skip Talbot

12-11-2007, 10:28 PM

It is about 1000 times better then the Discovery Channel show

I disagree, and believe this show is about 1000 times worse than the Discovery Channel show. The factual errors and the narrator's dialog were much worse in this show than the Storm Chaser's series. My favorite is when the narrator made reference to the "action zone" as if it were a standard meteorological term.

You'll notice they showed the DOW during one of their chases, but the Discovery series didn't even bother covering that day. I know the Twister Sisters were probably operating under a much more restricted schedule and so had less material to work with, but the Storm Chasers series still had much more impressive footage.

The other characters they showed further detracted from the show. The one guy was asking for a data card while he was already sitting under an RFB. What does he need data for? Follow that storm! Then he is clearly caught in RFD, and makes no mention to the possibility that it was RFD and not a tornadic circulation.

The two kids they showed are probably much more representative of the chaser community, but they were just too damn geeky and cocky to be watchable. How about giving your friend some radar updates if you aren't going to lend your data card?

The fact that the show is on WE means nothing other than that they probably had less money to work with than Discovery did, and thus the quality of their editing and material is worse.

Jay Cazel

12-11-2007, 10:55 PM

I was wondering why they would use a hurricane graphic to show storms in the plains. I watched about half of it then went to bed.

Josh Richardson

12-11-2007, 10:58 PM

I somewhat agree with Skip, although I didnt really watch this expecting to like it all that much. I also was wondering why Brad wasnt mentioning the possibility of being caught in the RFD rather than strictly thinking it was tornadic circulation....Didnt mind watching Beau and the other guy, as a matter of fact isnt Beau a member here at ST? For some reason the name looks familiar.

Doug_Kiesling

12-11-2007, 11:07 PM

while he was already sitting under an RFB.

Same error in typing is the same stuff in Post Production that get messed up.

For the record I have no stake in this show. I have nothing to lose or nothing to gain if the show fails or takes off but I thought as a chaser and video executive producer on many different projects, the show showed more of what chasing is like then Discovery Channels - Storm Chaser project.

There will always be errors in the different TV shows due to producers and editors in post production trying to make it look the way they want.

But from a chasing stand point, the sprint card error was a heck of a lot better and real then the which way is north as what happened in the DOWS and causing the TIV to not chase and miss.

Twister Sisters on WE is more like a ride along with storm chasers and Storm Chasers on Discovery is more like a ride along on a government bureaucratic mess. What really pissed me off about the Discovery Channel show is that the TIV could see the tornado, you don't need radar or DOWS, if you can see it so just go visual and drive into it.

Twister Sisters just is like riding along on the chase as an new chaser just observing.

Melanie Metz

12-11-2007, 11:28 PM

Thank you for the comments and feedback.

I would just like to comment briefly: This is TV, this is not a "documentary". The producers did supplement the chase with more photogenic tornado footage. They also merged a couple days into one. I like how I managed to change my outfit between photo op stops!

I was curious to see how they would turn one week of chasing into one hour. Now I know! Obviously, all of our forecasting and scientific discussions were cut out. I guess that kind of talk just doesn't appeal to the general audience.

To be honest, they were actually more accurate with the science than the National Geographic TV documentary we did. Of course it's not perfect, but is it ever? And yes, again, they DID supplement with more photogenic tornadoes.

Thanks for the support Doug! It is hard being on TV and having to take all the criticism. It's fun though! We have already received many requests for tours and the show just aired an hour ago! So I guess some people liked it.

All in all, I am happy to be able to share my passion with others. I hope some people enjoyed it! We did!

Happy Holidays!
Melanie

SteveCarter

12-12-2007, 12:27 AM

Personally, I liked THIS show a LOT better than the Discovery Channel show. I agree with Doug on what he said. To me, this show is a LOT more realistic storm-chasing. When I'm out there chasing every day, I get pretty excited about seeing a GOOD anvil, or feeling the RFD. When I watch a storm-chasing show....I want to feel like I am there, or wish I was...at least. I know there are technical glitches here and there, and some footage is on other storms, but so what? The purpose of showing different footage that may be of a stronger tornado than what THEY got, is simply to get your attention, and it's ADVERTISING. This show is right on when it comes to chasing...IMHO. The Discovery Channel series seemed to me, more like a circus...with outlandish vehicles, ACTORS, and more scientific gadgetry than anyone in here has EVER used. None of it seemed real to me. So, while I'll still catch next years Discovery Channel series anyway, I like this one much better.....so far.

Doug_Kiesling

12-12-2007, 01:17 AM

I was wondering why they would use a hurricane graphic to show storms in the plains. I watched about half of it then went to bed.

Same reason that The Weather Channel uses little tornado graphics along the boundry line on the hot and cold where the latest ice storm is.

A lot of the errors in ANY show are done in post production where the subjects of any show have no say in how the actual show looks.

Unless your doing something like what I did with Current TV last year for the Five Part series called "Weather Paparazzi" where I was the writer, producer and main editor, you really have zero control on how any TV show will look even if your name is on it. If your the Executive Producer, then you will but I really doubt they had any say in it since it was produced by the same guys that did the deadliest catch and ice road truckers. So if you think about it, how much say do you think those truckers would have in the final editing and post production graphics.

Just my thoughts. But like I said before, I have no interest in if this thing takes off or falls flat on it's face other then how they show storm chasers in the field and how they act. If they make all the chasers look like idiots in next weeks show, then I may have something to complain about but so far, it looks like real chasing to me but minus the hour and hours of waiting around and picking your butt waiting for the cap to break.

Jay Cazel

12-12-2007, 05:03 AM

Same reason that The Weather Channel uses little tornado graphics along the boundry line on the hot and cold where the latest ice storm is.

A lot of the errors in ANY show are done in post production where the subjects of any show have no say in how the actual show looks.

Unless your doing something like what I did with Current TV last year for the Five Part series called "Weather Paparazzi" where I was the writer, producer and main editor, you really have zero control on how any TV show will look even if your name is on it. If your the Executive Producer, then you will but I really doubt they had any say in it since it was produced by the same guys that did the deadliest catch and ice road truckers. So if you think about it, how much say do you think those truckers would have in the final editing and post production graphics.

Just my thoughts. But like I said before, I have no interest in if this thing takes off or falls flat on it's face other then how they show storm chasers in the field and how they act. If they make all the chasers look like idiots in next weeks show, then I may have something to complain about but so far, it looks like real chasing to me but minus the hour and hours of waiting around and picking your butt waiting for the cap to break.

Don't get me wrong Doug....I like the show, I only have watched the first part of the first one so I can't say if it is better or worse than the Discovery Channel, TIV show. I have it DVR, but having a cold and the wife dragging me out x-mas shopping last night after cold, ice and rain I just was not in the mood to watch tv. I do think it is more realistic storm-chasing.

Shane Adams

12-12-2007, 06:50 AM

The fact that the show is on WE means nothing other than that they probably had less money to work with than Discovery did, and thus the quality of their editing and material is worse.

The show's on WE because the Twister Sisters are women. That's pretty much the point of it all.

Doug_Kiesling

12-12-2007, 08:08 AM

The show's on WE because the Twister Sisters are women. That's pretty much the point of it all.

And the other thing is they are on the WE or Wii and have an hour long TV commercial for their storm chasing tours geared towards the clients they are looking for.

As someone told me a couple days ago, you can play Wii or Watch WE :-)

Dave Gallaher

12-12-2007, 10:58 AM

The purpose of showing different footage that may be of a stronger tornado than what THEY got, is simply to get your attention, and it's ADVERTISING.

ADVERTISING is right: I counted nine spots and two program promos on each break. I haven't watched tv since the baseball season ended (except for college football) and I'm always amazed at the increase in commercials when I return to it. This is, of course, no responsibility of the Sisters or the producers either.

That's roughly 30 commercials in an hour. I guess it will be 40 next season. I do hope the chasing shows will continue, including this one. I thought the Sisters represented themselves and chasing-in-general quite well. However, what appeared on the show as selfishness between the younger chasers was inappropriate; this has never been my experience when in the field.

Gerrit Gulden

12-12-2007, 02:35 PM

After the first show I was really pleased to see how the show included several other chasers amongst the Twister Sisters. Also with the divorced Couple, I was sure there would be drama like others expressed but I was pleasantly suprised to see how the chemistry all worked. The footage was great and the whole show was very enjoyable. I definetely agree with Doug Kiesling that This show is much better than the Discovery Channel show. There were no 2 different sources for Info that would clash heads and I felt that the overall Portrayal of storm chasers was pretty much correct on the Twister Sisters.

The show is a hit in my eyes. Congrats to Peggy and Melanie and the rest of the chasers involved with the show. =)

-gerrit

Brett Adair

12-12-2007, 03:11 PM

I was pretty pleased with the first show as well......because I looked at it from a TV perspective. As far as the terminology goes, some of it was off from the other chasers but that kind of thing happens to some in the excitement of it all. As Melanie mentioned, I'm sure much of the scientific aspect was cut out due to the common folk being able to understand it. They don't care about that.....just show the action!

When it comes to Discovery or WE TV producing a show, I don't expect much of the meteorology aspect to come out. Now, if we could get a group of chasers to produce a "series" of storm chasing shows that was able to be shown via DVD or some network actually allowed us to produce to OUR liking.....I would expect much more.

All in all, good job Melanie, Peggy, and the rest of the crew on the show. Looks to be a pretty successful show in my opinion. Actually, it has my wife FINALLY wanting to take a chase trip to the plains with me (without the core punching LOL) so I can just thank you guys for that much. :)

richhorodner

12-13-2007, 12:26 AM

When it comes to Discovery or WE TV producing a show, I don't expect much of the meteorology aspect to come out. Now, if we could get a group of chasers to produce a "series" of storm chasing shows that was able to be shown via DVD or some network actually allowed us to produce to OUR liking.....I would expect much more.

Anyone can submit a finished product to the Discovery Channel for possible purchase and use by them. Of course, it has to meet a lot of professional broadcast and timing criteria that very few, if any, chasers have the knowledge, experience, and proper editing abilities to meet.

Then, there is a cable channel or two that allows self-proclaimed "producers" to submit more ameteurish programs for broadcast - anywhere from high school students with some budding talent to adventurists (like skydivers or mountainclimbers) who have picked up a lilttle photographic skill along the way.

Dean L. Cosgrove

12-13-2007, 12:46 AM

I thought Peggy and Melanie did a great job sharing their passion for chasing with their guests . The last segment was my favorite when they stopped to take in the beautiful scene Mother Nature was painting for them :)
It was good WE showed that the chase tour experience is so much more than just getting a tornado .

If you want to see lots of tornadoes order your copy of the Storms of 2007 Charity DVD :)

Dean Cosgrove
http://chasetours.com/

Dave Gallaher

12-13-2007, 01:43 AM

I just received a PM from a chaser involved in the program (not one of the Sisters), who indicated that the aircard refusal incident was staged for the program and not a real situation. I want to apologize to those guys who may have been slighted by my shortsighted comments regarding this.

I am relieved to find this out, and wish the soap opera factor wasn't so popular with programs such as this that have so much else to offer. I guess I'll watch 'conflicts' in future episodes with a grain of salt handy.

Thanks to the person who cleared this up for me.

Shane Adams

12-13-2007, 02:12 AM

I just received a PM from a chaser involved in the program (not one of the Sisters), who indicated that the aircard refusal incident was staged for the program and not a real situation.

And that is exactly why I can't stand shows like this one. I guess I'm just a purist, but regardless of how chasing is "presented" or how well it was produced, I can't embrace something that's not real. I just don't see how you have time to do all that staged, soap opera reality stuff and still get any chasing done. I don't care who says what, that has to hurt their ability to focus on the chase. But I guess getting the commercial exposure makes it worth-while, considering that's obviously the point of it all.

Greg Stumpf

12-13-2007, 07:36 AM

Then, there is a cable channel or two that allows self-proclaimed "producers" to submit more ameteurish programs for broadcast - anywhere from high school students with some budding talent to adventurists (like skydivers or mountainclimbers) who have picked up a lilttle photographic skill along the way.
Online documentaries might also be a good way to "break in" a semi-professional self-made production. I've been just been turned on to this site (some great stuff there), which looks to be a possible candidate: http://www.vbs.tv/about.php

Bill Hark

12-18-2007, 11:56 PM

They had the second Twister Sister's episode. Very enjoyable episode. Great storms. I liked the producers showing the high expectations of May 23, 2007 and resulting lack of tornadoes. May 22 was also pretty cool though I felt bad for the chasers that missed one of the most highly intercepted tornadoes. Only thing I didn't like was the spliced footage of some other high contrast tornado with May 22. That day was an awesome chase with amazing structure and a pretty white tornado. They didn't need to add another tornado. Looking forward to part 3 next Tuesday.

Bill Hark

BTW, I think I saw myself in the background on May 23.

JIM SELLARS

12-19-2007, 12:28 AM

I agree with Bill...I got to watch both episodes back to back....#2 was better than the first episode....M & P had fun and really shared their respect and awe of nature with the tourists....From reading all of the previous posts I thought I'd see "RACHEL RAY chases a storm" or "Oprah and Dr. Phyliss marrage counsellor RFD"....Well I didn't see that...I saw a diverse group of people educating and enjoying nature together....KUDOS!!!

Mike Smith

12-19-2007, 08:44 AM

I tuned in last night and really enjoyed the show -- which is what it is supposed to be -- entertainment.

I thought it was well done and put chasers, for the most part, in a good light.

I remember hearing all the griping about factual errors when the movie Twister came out, yet it was one of the best things to ever happen to chasers and applied meteorology.

Lets lighten up a bit, congratulate the 'sisters,' and enjoy future episodes.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

JIM SELLARS

01-01-2008, 10:14 PM

# 4 JUST PLAYED....I really don't know what to think...It was kinda slow.with lots of "TIMMERNADOES"...:confused:

Terry Tyler

01-02-2008, 01:03 AM

You can also count me out, I will not be watching.

i just happened to go out in the livingroom and i saw that program running...i was like hell, i might as well take a look at it and see what its all about...

i watched it for a lil bit, but i didnt like some of the cast members...i didnt like the way they acted, and i really didnt like the way they dressed...there wasnt any new or outstanding footage on there, and i was like...to hell with this!

i said cut on kill bill 2 and lets finish off this 20 pack!

Joshua Jones

01-02-2008, 02:10 AM

Seems as though every commercial for the show I have seen I saw The vehicle I was in. Look for the White Silverado Z71. I have noticed though that sometimes where they say they are isn't in fact where they are.

Scott McPartland

01-02-2008, 08:26 AM

I've finally seen this show after hearing about it for a few weeks now :) Caught the marathon that aired last night on WE. I think Melanie and Peggy are doing an excellent job, but like some....I felt that the over acting and staged bits here and there weren't neccesary. I haven't seen all of the episodes yet, including the ones that from what I've been reading contain a ton of soap opera garbage. If this is the case, then that stuff needs to go IMO. I guess the network feels that storm chasing isn't interesting enough so they need to throw in some personal drama. But again, I guess I can't really say too much about that since i haven't personally seen those episodes yet.

But I know that many times production companies force this practice to make things more "interesting" to the general public, much like stringing together multiple chase days to seem like one long one. But in the end, no one has control over what happens in post production, only the editors and big wigs of the network have any control over that. For me personally, I like this show much better than the Storm Chasers show on Discovery.

With that being said, there was one "you've got to be kidding me" part in one of the episodes I saw last night where two of the chasers are pulled over by the cop for speeding. One of them says to the other something to the effect of "dude, tell him we're in the middle of a chase and are in a hurry". Yeah, there's a good idea. I think the cop already figured out that they were in a hurry, the fact that they were clocked at 79 mph in what was probably a 60 zone gave that away, lol.. And then right at the end where the cop gives them the ticket, one of them says again something like "sir, we're chasing a large meso up the road...". The cop cuts him off at that point and then it's pretty much over with. My point being, why in the world would you say something like that to a cop? At the point that you're pulled over, the cop is in control, not you. It stinks, we've all been there...but let the man say his piece, and maybe if you're lucky he'll let you go with a warning. But telling him in so many words "dude, I'm in a rush here, can we speed this up" in my opinion will only make matters worse. They're lucky he didn't make them sit there for another 30 minutes, lol. Anyway, just my 2 cents :)

Scott

Scott McPartland

01-02-2008, 08:46 AM

Woops, lol. I was just informed that the ticket scene involving Eric and Beau was totally manipulated, and that the Beau as it turns out, never said any of that stuff. Once again proving that the powers that be at the networks still like to twist things around. Had me fooled. So nevermind then! lol..

Eric Whitehill

01-02-2008, 09:19 AM

But I know that many times production companies force this practice to make things more "interesting" to the general public, much like stringing together multiple chase days to seem like one long one. But in the end, no one has control over what happens in post production, only the editors and big wigs of the network have any control over that. For me personally, I like this show much better than the Storm Chasers show on Discovery.

With that being said, there was one "you've got to be kidding me" part in one of the episodes I saw last night where two of the chasers are pulled over by the cop for speeding. One of them says to the other something to the effect of "dude, tell him we're in the middle of a chase and are in a hurry". Yeah, there's a good idea. I think the cop already figured out that they were in a hurry, the fact that they were clocked at 79 mph in what was probably a 60 zone gave that away, lol.. And then right at the end where the cop gives them the ticket, one of them says again something like "sir, we're chasing a large meso up the road...". The cop cuts him off at that point and then it's pretty much over with. My point being, why in the world would you say something like that to a cop? At the point that you're pulled over, the cop is in control, not you. It stinks, we've all been there...but let the man say his piece, and maybe if you're lucky he'll let you go with a warning. But telling him in so many words "dude, I'm in a rush here, can we speed this up" in my opinion will only make matters worse. They're lucky he didn't make them sit there for another 30 minutes, lol. Anyway, just my 2 cents :)

Hey Scott:

Thanks for your comments about the show! I'm glad that you and other chasers are enjoying the show, and we welcome the comments.

A little bit of clarification on the whole "Hey, guess what, Eric just got pulled over for speeding!" bit.

The part where I say "Well, here we go, I'm getting pulled over again."
Reason was, we had just gotten pulled over because our cameraman was hanging out the vehicle trying to shoot some footage. We were warned to not do that again or else it could be a fine. Then, we go after the Radium tor, and get pulled over.

The person who said "Tell him we have a storm to chase." was said by our cameraman. It was not said by Beau or myself.

The comments Beau made about me getting pulled over were cut and snipped by the production crew. Beau made additional comments about how we were part of the problem by getting pulled over. Needless to say, I learned my $120 lesson.

I was doing 79 in a 65. The ticket was $120. It happens.

Chasers speed, raindrops fall. Any chaser who says they never speed is lying through their teeth. :-)

It should also be noted quite a bit of the tors were shot by Cullen Doms, Bill's son. Yes, there was some footage of Timmer's tors interjected in the show. None of us on the cast have any control over how or where Original gets their extra footage.

Again, thanks for watching the show and all the comments, both positive and negative! If you have any questions, or comments you would like to be kept personal, please feel free to drop me an email/message.

Thanks again,

-Eric (WX-Geek #2)

Jerry Prsha

01-02-2008, 11:05 AM

Eric,

I watched the show with the wife and a couple of friends and the whole time I was explaining things to them that perhaps might be able to be added to help with understanding.

Have you ever watched the show Ghost Hunters on SciFi? Every so often, they film a side note that is external to the footage, that explains a term or why they're doing what they are.

It could become a very educational experience without much of a distraction and you could use the side note in other episodes when talking in technical terms.

Just a thought..

Edward Ballou

01-02-2008, 12:04 PM

I enjoy the show - actually a bit more than the one on the Discovery Channel. Of course you're going to get more tornados with the Discovery channel because they're hooked up with the DOW - a research vehicle that HAS to be out there in the thick of it.

Having chased with Eric a couple times, I found it to be more realistic of our chases. Plus my wife and I had a few good laughs about the similarity between Beau & Eric, and Eric & I chasing.

I'm looking forward to more episodes/seasons :) Plus I'm comfortable with my sexuality enough to watch WE and be okay with myself. Although you probably won't find that channel being viewed casually the rest of the day. If it is, I'll just blame the wife...lol!

Shane Adams

01-02-2008, 01:25 PM

Television has finally realized that chasing, in it's actual, true form/self, is boring to anyone not interested in that very narrow niche. So what we have now are these new shows, where chasers are creating characters/situations to make it 'interesting" to John Q. Public. I guess that's great for television, but for chasing purists who actually think chasing is interesting itself, it's pretty much the end of anything we'd want to see. It's become pro-wrestling, but instead of the Free Birds and the Executioner, you have the TS WE "soap opera" and the Outlaws Court TV "bad guy" characters/situations. Both fabricated for one thing - television. American TV audiences are obviously loving it, so it's not going away anytime soon.

If I wasn't a chaser, I'd probably love this stuff. For example, I love that show "Ghost Hunters", even though I know the show itself is an over-dramatized version of what paranormal investigation actually is. But, because I have no firsthand experience/knowledge of what the activity is really like, it's easy to just get drawn into the TV drama they create and enjoy the show. With chasing shows, I see through all of the BS, and it just ruins it for me.

JIM SELLARS

01-02-2008, 04:20 PM

I'm glad that the string was resurrected with my open comments in an earlier post...I'm sure that John Q Public is having a blast watching and really enjoying the shows (I do too or I wouldn't watch)....I guess we can all be critical of the editing and "SCRIPTING" of the show knowing what we know about the subject...I can feel Melanie, Peggy, Eric, Beau and the rest of the chase team "CRINGE" at how some of the scenes, interactions and chases are portrayed....Like Eric's explanation of the traffic stop and Beau's comments...We as readers of this string accept the explanation but it's possible that any Law enforcement officer that saw the comment on the show "WITHOUT" the luxury of reading this string may not only see any chaser but one driving a gray Tahoe or Suburban as a "TARGET OF OPPORTUNITY"....

Eric Treece

01-02-2008, 04:45 PM

I happened to catch one of the episodes last night and the one thing that ALWAYS catches my eye and the question that I always wonder about.......can they (DISCOVERY, NGC, WE, TLC.......whoever) make a chase show WITHOUT showing the speedometer at some critical point in the chase where it is clearly showing speeding (I think it was pushing 80 in last nights episode that I watched)? Like Eric said, we ALL speed, but do they need to lay the evidence right there for the whole world to see and have just one more person out there saying that chasers are reckless?

Beau.Gjerdingen

01-02-2008, 06:48 PM

I again just want to second what Eric has said about my comments when we were pulled over. I by no means think we didn't deserve the ticket, nor was I EVER trying to rush the officer (although the scene was certainly edited to make it look like that). We became part of the problem when there were bigger fish for the police to be dealing with (such as the tornado very near the town just up the road). The last thing we want to do is be a drain on local law enforcement in a situation like that. My interview was chopped about completely in half to make it look like I had said the complete opposite. Also, I never said "Tell him we have a storm to get to". That was indeed our cameraman in the back seat trying to get us to create drama for the show, which we were in no way interested in doing. All I know is that when you have a camera or three on you 24/7 when chasing you are bound to do/say something stupid no matter how good of a person you are. At the end of getting pulled over I was trying to tell the officer about the storm up the road (near Radium, KS on May 5) because I was genuinely concerned for the safety of the people in the town and was trying to let him know what was happening. I was not trying to make a cocky statement like "hey buddy we are important and have to get on this thing". Again we were at fault here and neither of us were trying to deny that.

Shane Adams

01-02-2008, 09:14 PM

All I know is that when you have a camera or three on you 24/7 when chasing you are bound to do/say something stupid no matter how good of a person you are.

That's the chance you take when you sign the contract. I'm guessing the deal was pretty sweet.

Scott McPartland

01-02-2008, 09:26 PM

Sorry I mistook those statments as yours Beau, as I mentioned in my pervious post, I was certainly fooled! And I think Shane nailed it when he said that storm chasing in it's pure form just isn't interesting to the general public. Which is why these networks will continue to alter events, and dialog to suit their needs. I don't see this stopping anytime soon. But I definitely understand how this process happens, it happens in post production, and it also happens when you have a producer trying to "lead" you into saying things for "effect". I've encountered both of these issues myself in the past.
Since on occasion I will do certain TV shows, I just have to accept the fact that I'm running that risk as well. But the extra money helps me during chase season so I'm willing to accept it :)

But you are right Beau in that when you have a camera on you as much as you guys had to deal with, something bad is bound to come out once in a while, lol. And with the speeding, we've all done it, and most of us have been busted for it in the past, I know I have. To me though, there is a big difference between going 10 MPH or so over the speed limit, but being cautious while doing so, and flat out reckless driving, but unfortunatley the cops don't see it that way I guess, lol.

Either way, no worries :)

Tony Laubach

01-03-2008, 12:29 PM

Jon V and myself have had this discussion numerous times in regards to the edits and how situations will ultimately end up looking. We had a run-in with a cop in one of the towns in Nebraska which was being hit hard with heavy rains and extensive street flooding was occuring. He pulled over Jon for driving through the water saying we were creating waves and making a mess. In truth, yes, we were driving in circles, which isn't something we'd normally do on our own, however our producer was trying to get multiple shots and was asking we do that. Hearing about the ticket makes me wonder how our scene will play out in our episode on the 15th.

I, to my shock, do not have WE. I did at one point, but so did I with the NFL network, so who knows...

As a result, I have not seen any of the shows yet... a bunch of us are getting together to watch all six over a weekend here soon, so that's when I'll see it all for the first time. Until then, I am left to my own imagination of how it'll turn out! Both in good and not so good. I'm more excited to see what they're doing with various other fun stuff we put together! Oughta be great for a fun laugh!!!

Darrin Rasberry

01-15-2008, 01:12 AM

I just saw them on Leno (I noticed the thread was either deleted or moved elsewhere so I apologize if talking about their talkshow appearance is taboo). Anyone can see them now on Jay Leno's website, which apparently reruns the previous week. They start after the second-to-last "bar" (which represents a short mandatory commercial on the streamer).

They both seemed a little nervous at first, especially Mel, but sounded pretty sharp and gave credit where credit was due when the wrong second film was rolled. I'm beginning to think more and more that the production was due to faults of a virgin TV network and not at all to them. I'm starting to watch their show.

Both of them looked like the radiant, enthusiastic, beautiful ladies they are, and I admire them for their honesty and for raising awareness of the weather radio. I guess I'll make a totally unprofessional comment here and say Mel's an absolute scene-stealer with those eyes and long hair; I think I have a crush :o

How many people involved in that show post here? I've read them talking about this forum but I guess they've left it behind, but I'm wondering if the accompanying chasers post here. I hope the sisters don't still lurk or I'm going to be ultra-embarrassed if I meet them on the road after the last paragraph :o

Bill Doms

01-15-2008, 10:40 AM

I'm beginning to think more and more that the production was due to faults of a virgin TV network and not at all to them. I

WE TV had nothing to do with the production of the show. Original Productions who also does Deadliest Catch, Ice Road Truckers, Monster Garage, et al did the show. The field production crew on TS included several members of the actual team who does Deadliest Catch. FWIW, the guys who do DC think stormchasing is harder to shoot than the crab fisherman. I don't think they were prepared for the long miles, bad food, waiting, bad light, etc...basically everything we expect.

You can check out more of OP's work at http://www.origprod.com/

Final episode is on tonight at 9 central 10 eastern.

jason kissam

01-15-2008, 09:48 PM

hey bill loved the chicken on the front of the truck!!!! makes me want to get a "mascot" for my next season.

SteveCarter

01-15-2008, 09:50 PM

Just finishing watching the last episode now. Yeah, I liked this one a LOT better than discovery's TIV thing. The Twister Sisters show is so much more like REAL storm chasing is...imo. There was far to much negativity and taking every thing so serious in the "TIV" show. Don't have much input really....but did enjoy the show. I just got out my DVD's of my last three years chasing to get me revved up again.....so this show worked for me! LOL I'm READY!
*****roflmao...loved the part of the cops telling you that knocked over the barricades, and you guys respond, "NO, I DIDN'T, I never knocked over one barricade". the cop..."Yes you DID, with THIS vehicle". Priceless....and how realistic too. Remember, the coips are ALWAYS right, even if you have it on tape. SWEET. lol

jason kissam

01-15-2008, 10:06 PM

yeah the floating barrells was funny. Its great watching reactions to the local police in the smaller towns.

got to say loved the entire twister sister show!! all you guys did an awesome job!!! thanks for the entertainment

Mike Smith

01-15-2008, 10:40 PM

I got to see 3 episodes and enjoyed them all.

Mickey Ptak

01-16-2008, 07:58 AM

I watched all three episodes last night and for the most part I enjoyed them. I was annoyed by the various other tornado clips thrown in the mix while filming “the tornado” (5/22/07 in particular). I have to consider that this is for entertainment not education nor was it made for storm chasers but rather the general public.

I did like how they captured Bill and Cullen's relationship as father and son. My son is close to Cullen's age so that is touching. Cullen will be a damn good chaser when he gets older for sure. lol I loved how he made the scenes so dramatic lol I got a kick of him a few times.

jeremy wilson

01-16-2008, 02:21 PM

loved the show myself. anytime theres storm footage on t.v. i'm watching. sometimes you just gotta throw out the soap opera crap and enjoy the scenery. as far as twister sisters goes it seemed pretty genuine except for the tornado clips thrown in for drama as mickey mentioned above. but i am sure the editors added that well after the show was actualy filmed and the sisters didnt know about it until it was on the air.

Jim Hunt

01-16-2008, 07:24 PM

My only major complaint is the darn wetv logo always seeming to be in the way...

Bill Hark

01-16-2008, 10:34 PM

I just finished the last episode on my DVR. Overall, great show. I liked the enthusiasm by all the chasers involved in the show. For the general public, I think the different aspects of chasing were nicely shown. The audience definitely can experience the spirit of chasing. There was confusion, racing to catch up with the storm, arguing chasing partners, bust days, beauty of storms other than tornadoes, flooding, hail, waiting along with swarms of mosquitoes, deer and law enforcement. I got a good laugh with the Allsups burrito. Brings back memories. Yes, I was annoyed with other tornado footage that was not clearly labeled. To an average person, it wasn't clear how many miles were involved reaching the target area. Chasers generally don't start out chasing warned-storms hundreds of miles away. These are minor problems. I hope the show is repeated for 2008.
Kudos to the Twister Sisters and the other chase teams.

Bill Hark

Bill Doms

01-16-2008, 11:19 PM

hey bill loved the chicken on the front of the truck!!!! makes me want to get a "mascot" for my next season.

Yeah, we have gotten lots of mileage out of it. Cullen thinks the thing is cursed but it was with on some decent days too.
http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w80/mnskies/test%20shots/chicken.jpg
From Cullen and I, thanks to everyone who watched the show and "got it". We knew it was going to have it's flaws and have a lot of creative editing but you have to admit it was entertaining most of the time. No one involved with the show got to preview or pre-screen any of the episodes or sequences so we were laughing and groaning right along with everyone else each week. (Eric shaking his belly in the Allsups sequence was just WRONG!) No word on a second season yet but we should hear something within the next 2 or 3 weeks.

John Diel

01-17-2008, 07:30 AM

I vowed to myself to stay out of these discussions, but.... So much for that resolution!

From a purely entertainment standpoint, I've enjoyed these. Bust days and all. Of course it's hard to place 3 or 4 days chasing into 45 minutes and still get the gist of things, but they seem to be doing a pretty good job of it. All of the characters have been played pretty well and so far, they've been "real" people that we all know and love so well.

On the technical, side, like anyone else, I could pick it to death. But you know something? That's kind of beside the point of the whole show. For what it's intentions are. It's a lot of fun to watch.

Keep on chasing!

Bill: I think you and Cullen steal the show every time. Love it! :D