ARCHIVED: National Association of Storm Chasers

[Chris Sokol]

OK...this will answer a question. Anybody that is interested in trying to organize an association for storm chasers reply here. If you have no interest in being involved in this type of organization, do not reply on here saying that you are not and/or the reasons you would not. This is a thread to gather information from those that are actually interested, and what they see as some of the goals of such an association should be. It is not a thread to argue why anybody thinks and/or feels that there should not be any type of association.

I would especially like to hear any ideas that you have for interacting with the public (especially in the off season), such as school visits, exhibits, ect.

[Mike Peregrine]

Chris - I was going to hold off on making a post in this direction until a few things could be determined - but since the subject is suddenly exploding, it might be better to go ahead with some suggestions. It should be noted primarily that not everyone in the chase community is in favor of organization that protects them. So this discussion is simply based in terms of proposal to generate further exchange of ideas at this point.

The following is an off-list e-mail sent to Amos, Tim Vasquez and Tim Marshall concerning this subject yesterday:

--------------------------------

It is becoming increasingly clear that some type of structure is required to represent storm chasers in the media and government authority. As time goes on, the utilization of a mouthpiece organization to aid in the establishment of peaceful relations with communities, emergency management, law enforcement and government agencies, and to promote awareness and safety guidance, is quickly becoming more necessary.

I will be speaking with one of my attorneys to discuss the feasibility of maintaining a non-profit organization involved in the establishment and promotion of safe and ethical practice, and more importantly - to serve as a media outlet for the voice of the community and chasers everywhere, no matter what their purpose in chasing may be (enthusiast, media, scientist, student, tourist, etc.). There will need to be some discussion of this among serious chasers who are interested in promoting a structure that would ultimately benefit and protect them, serving their interests to a greater degree as time goes on.

To function, the goals of the organization would need to be clear, with an established mission statement and set of standards. Membership might be voluntary, possibly through a voluntary certification process (this situation is very similar to that of paralegals across the country right now, which also use a similar organization to represent them ... known as NALA - http://www.nala.org ).

Membership benefits would include recognition as an individual interested in the promotion of safe and ethical practice, and eligibility to participate in a merit system to recognize and reward those actively involved in the promotion of the activity. As time goes on, chasers who are not members will become more and more inclined to want to become such, simply so they can have a voice in the world, with international media, and before government.

Let me know if this is something that interests you and merits further discussion. You've been contacted privately, off-list. Please maintain confidentiality in this matter until we have the opportunity to discuss its feasibility at length.

If you are aware of other chasers who might be interested in talking about this matter further, and who would also possibly represent the community positively, please offer some names to contact.

I would be interested in talking to a full range of individuals about this from every walk of chaser life. Everyone would need some form of representation, with preference given to no particular group or individual. The ones most actively involved would obviously need to be those of the highest caliber, who already demonstrate a strongly positive influence in the eyes of others.

Let me know if you think something along this line is desirable, and if you feel it is do-able. Currently, a sort of vigilante spirit seems to exist in the community, which involves more lashing out publically than working toward some clear-cut and meaningful goals that actually do some good. We need to get some sort of positive public relations in motion, or everyone will soon be feeling the effects.

------------------------------

Following this email I spoke with one of my attorneys - a partner in my firm who is quite capable and well-versed in non-profit organizations.

For this organization to function properly, the board of directors cannot come from the ranks of chasers like you or me. We would need direction from a core of long-term, recognizable chasers who are willing to serve on the board for this to be successful.

It would also require endorsement from key agencies. The organization needs to have a functioning legal structure, likely that of a non-profit corporation. The umbrella agency merely acts toward specific, key goals:

*that of serving as the mouthpiece or public relations agency for storm chasers

*protecting and serving the interests of chasers themselves by endorsing and promoting education on severe weather, chasing ethics and responsibility, and the basic meteorology involved

A sample mission statement might go something like (and I had considered a name like A.W.E. - for Association of Weather Enthusiasts, but you can insert your favorite acronym here):

The Association of Weather Enthusiasts will maintain a key and active role in the promotion and defense of safe and ethical storm chasing practice, the promotion of severe weather awareness and education, and the promotion of positive relations between storm chasers and government agencies, including the National Weather Service, NOAA, the Storm Prediction Center, local law enforcement and local emergency management. The A.W.E. also serves as a mouthpiece for individuals involved in the pursuit of severe weather, acting as a clearing house and public relations structure for international media groups.

Examples of activities of the Association may include:

*implementation of a VOLUNTARY certification process

*issuance and revocation powers for certificates

*organization and delivery of semi-annual seminars, in which chasers receive specific training

*the monitoring and delivery of news to members that affects their ability to chase freely

*the monitoring and delivery of news to the media concerning chaser activities and the benefits that chasers have.

These are just a few ideas - I'm sure this will be an active discussion, but hopefully you can see that taking a serious direction is the only way to go with something of this nature. It cannot be another SCOA or Stormtrack, or anything even remotely similar. The legalities are easy to care for, as I understand that aspect of the process well. However, marketing is another story - and will be a challenge - requiring additional support from other agencies.

[Jeff Miller]

In the interest of developing a program to better enable storm chasing's image and detail, I would support such a program. I would be interested in information on this if and when it appears certain such an organization or entity is imminent. My thoughts:

1. As long as it's board of directors, as stated above, are recognized, experienced chasers who have the interest of chasers' best interests and goals in mind.

2. As long as chasing as a whole maintains a degree of independence. If I have to start taking log books with me such as a security guard would have to and report in, not interested.

3. I am all for the advocation of safe and responsible chasing. There has been way too much talk in the storm chasing ranks and absolutely no action. If this will help even minutely, count me in.

I wil edit this post to include more points as I ponder the idea further. Mike, the proposal outlined above is well written, well thought of and legally balanced. Chris, thanks for starting this thread and supporting action instead of mere words -- I get tired of the same thing brought up year end and year out with nothing being done. Yes, this MAY change chasing...but it may just allow us to keep on doing it.

I will volunteer in any capacity my skills and talents enable me to. Contact me for specifics via PM.

[Mike Peregrine]

Concerning the individual's ability to chase independently and maintain whatever manner they do it currently - this structure would have no power over the individual's right to pursue their interests. As noted, it merely provides a structure for maintaining strong relations with various agencies and the media, and provides a basis for promoting safe chase practices that by far the majority of chasers already adhere to on their own.

[Jeff Snyder]

I'm up for it.... the concerns I have have been covered in previous posts in this thread -- Mike's and Jeff's ...

[Tim Vasquez]

I would gear up Stormtrack to openly support such an organization as long as it overlaps with the vision of Stormtrack, and is non-profit and has a mechanism for bringing in a fresh, democratically-elected leadership annually.

The main problem I see though is getting volunteer work (and possibly an active leadership). I was part of the core group that started the International Weather Watchers in 1993, and many of us flew out to a founding meeting in Baltimore. Though the numbers swelled into the hundreds, with large annual meetings, the organization died a few years later because of a profound lack of volunteer initiative. It was a metaphorical Cadillac propped up on cinder blocks. By 1997 its assets were sold off and it was dissolved. Sad! It might also be educational to take a look at the history of TESSA (http://www.tessa.org)... only several people have been involved with this organization over the past twelve years and it has remained fairly low-key for an organization of it stature. Likewise I can see this chaser organization starting as an excellent concept, but dying because the leadership is busy with their personal life and the members fairly uninvolved. So I see this as by far the biggest hurdle.

If the organization does get going, some key objectives I see:

1. Promoting safety and a code of ethics.

2. Fostering the free flow of knowledge between all storm chasers.

3. Working to avoid alienating chasers who choose to be independent, which would segregate the hobby.

4. Recognizing chasers who strive for excellence; even those who aren't members.

5. Promoting fair dealings with chasers by the media by educating and informing its members about rates, procedures, and advice on how to handle interviews. This is arguable of course as Fox can instead interview rowdy Bob Bassmaster, get his free tornado video, and present a worse image of chasers, but let's talk about that in a different thread.

If the ball starts rolling on this I will set up a separate forum category for issues relating to this organization.

Tim

[Mike Peregrine]

Tim - to overcome the hurdle concerning lack of volunteer support is to structure the organization to function like most other non-profits that are successful:

-Being non-profit, the Board of Directors do not profit from the progress of the company itself. In non-profit organizations, the funds are channeled back into the organization to promote its growth. However, once the board meets and finalizes the by-laws, deciding on the ultimate way that things will be organized, one of them can be hired by the organization (or someone from outside the board can be hired, either way) to oversee the administration of the organization itself. This person would be salaried, but such salary would be based solely on the organization's ability to receive funding ... this of course would mandate that whoever ultimately performs that function would NEED to be skilled with marketing, organization and the functioning of an organization such as this one. This person may not even be a chaser ... but they are rather someone who knows how these ventures operate and grow. The compensation for this position is generally meager - especially the first year. But it would encourage the person selected to actually go after the work and keep things in motion, operating it like any business.

[Jeff Snyder]

Originally posted by Tim Vasquez

The main problem I see though is getting volunteer work (and possibly an active leadership). I was part of the core group that started the International Weather Watchers in 1993, and many of us flew out to a founding meeting in Baltimore. Though the numbers swelled into the hundreds, with large annual meetings, the organization died a few years
Tim

Tim...

We could hold the annual meeting at Rocky's place! Let's just replace the "Storm Chaser party" with "Storm Chaser Meeting" ... and hold elections there! LOL .. Granted the Nat'l Storm Chaser Conference has done quite well, I'm told, the past couple of years too... I think if we can combine it with one of these two high-profile (relatively lol) and popular gatherings, we wouldn't have a problem with dwindling numbers...

EDIT: Ok ok ok, I wasn't trying to say that we should replace those two events with an Association meeting... But perhaps we could somehow put the meeting at the end of the storm chasers convection.. So, like the convection ends at 1pm... Then spend 2-3 hrs after that for the meeting (kinda like the TESSA meeting after the FTW Skywarn spotting class)... I duno, I was just figuring that many chasers are already there, so it'd be convenient to have one after the other...

[Mike Peregrine]

Also - one of the offerings to members might be annual continuing education, in which further in-depth training is provided (meteorological, etc.) ... I don't know anyone who wouldn't want to learn more about some of the deeper aspects. Combining it with an already established conference is a good idea, as most folks are already there. Could be linked to events such as that in Des Moines, or in OKC, or both.

[Robert Dewey]

It all sounds like a good idea to me...

Robert

[Richard Halter]

Put me down - I just posted in another thread the suggestion for a centralized media organization to put out positive stories and information about chaser activities and how they help people and research.

Centralized education and training sources would be great too!

Make it so!

[Amos Magliocco]

I think this is an excellent start, if for no other reason than to centralize ideas for publicity releases, media contact (that does not involve financial gain) and to prove that we're at least THINKING about exposing new chasers to various ideas about safety. Obviously people will make up their own mind after hearing these ideas, but there's no harm in making them public, centralized, and readily available to the media.

It's pretty well known in governmnet circles that a well-written and pertinent press release will often become a news story with only modest changes. Not that reporters are lazy, but if much of the work is done for them, like all of us, they don't mind. There are many gifted writers, videographers, photographers, web designers, and other in this community--we're certainly capable of presenting what we KNOW to be true about the majority of chasers and the benefits of chasing.

[John Diel]

Since I've jumped up and posted a few times, I'll put my words to action. I'll jump on in whatever capacity you would have me. Since I currently chase pretty much for a local radio station, there's that possibility.

If it's formed, I will jump on.

John Diel

[Colin P.McIntyre]

Im a long way from the close nitt group you have in the Alley but will
support anything that will benifit all chasers spotters and us newer folk
in potraying a better light on this hobby.Somthing has to be done and
i see some great ideas as i read the posts.Its good to see.

[B Ozanne]

I'm in.

A real organization needs real leadership though. Veteran storm chasers will be essential on the board, but they will also need to be experienced businessmen as well.

[Craig Maire II]

I definitely support a National Storm Chasers Association, would definitely join and would have no problem doing volunteer work in support of such organization!!

[Ben Pinette]

I don't really have any other ideas of my own at the moment, but I would certainly be willing to join such a group and help out in any way possible as time permits.

[Shane Adams]

Originally posted by Jeff Snyder+--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Jeff Snyder)</div><!--QuoteBegin-Tim Vasquez

The main problem I see though is getting volunteer work (and possibly an active leadership). I was part of the core group that started the International Weather Watchers in 1993, and many of us flew out to a founding meeting in Baltimore. Though the numbers swelled into the hundreds, with large annual meetings, the organization died a few years
Tim

Tim...

We could hold the annual meeting at Rocky's place! Let's just replace the "Storm Chaser party" with "Storm Chaser Meeting" ... and hold elections there! LOL .. Granted the Nat'l Storm Chaser Conference has done quite well, I'm told, the past couple of years too... I think if we can combine it with one of these two high-profile (relatively lol) and popular gatherings, we wouldn't have a problem with dwindling numbers...[/b]

Of all the reasons not to do this, there's the biggest one........conventions are taking over what used to be fun-filled, intimate gatherings centered around entertainment, not education. The Colorado chaser party used to be one of the best in existence, but it's been ruined by the annual convention which is all business and learning. To eliminate Rocky's party and turn it into some political dogshow would basically erase all chase parties, period.

I was going to keep my mouth shut (as requested by Chris [thread-starter]), but I have to step up to the plate for the sake of FUN in chasing. Let's not ruin our last venue of FUN by turning it into another convention/election full of nothing but speakers and merchants pimping gear.

[mikegeukes]

If you elect a Board of Directors, have the election held annually
and individuals should have a term limit of a year or two. This way
you can have new people involved with different ideas every year
and you avoid it becoming elitism.

Mike

[Jeff Miller]

Agreed. 2 years, maximum. Im sure there are enough experienced, level headed veteran chasers out there willing to step up to the plate.

[Mike Peregrine]

Originally posted by mikegeukes
If you elect a Board of Directors, have the election held annually
and individuals should have a term limit of a year or two. This way
you can have new people involved with different ideas every year
and you avoid it becoming elitism.

Mike

Tim V.'s post was similar, and this would likely be necessary.

[Ben Pinette]

I also agree with Shane's point here. While a need for an organization exists in my mind, this HAS to be fun in the process. While we are doing this for "business" reasons, no one wants to be a part of something that isn't fun. That is why we chase after all, right? If all of us here made big $$$ chasing, then it may be a different story.

I'm a part of numerous volunteer organizations, and I must say that if they weren't any fun, I wouldn't sacrifice my time. Because they are fun, and support a good cause, I devote more time to them than I probably should :)

[Mike Peregrine]

In keeping with the goal of the thread per Chris' instructions - I'll start a separate debate thread in the everything else room to give a voice to any concerns, which are certainly worth considering.

[Chris Sokol]

For those that enjoy this type of thing...a great way to win points with the general population is through the kids. 2-3 people that are willing to go to schools and put on a demo could do alot of good for the chase community. I have had several teachers recently ask if I would be willing to put on some type of program. This is wonderful PR, and could possibly be coordinated with the NWS and local Emergency Management offices.

[Mike Peregrine]

I love that too, Chris - I've done it with a kindergarten and 1st grade class ... and it's a ton of fun to get the kids' reactions (and hear their questions - hilarious). Anyway, they love the video and are really interested usually. Then parents tell me they talk about tornadoes for days afterward ...

[Mike Peregrine]

For those of you who are curious about how these set-ups work exactly, here is a page with some helpful information. I'll see if I can locate some more information that is on-target with this topic.

http://www.mapnp.org/library/strt_org/strt..._np/strt_np.htm (http://www.mapnp.org/library/strt_org/strt_np/strt_np.htm)

[mrobinson]

Originally posted by Chris Sokol
For those that enjoy this type of thing...a great way to win points with the general population is through the kids. 2-3 people that are willing to go to schools and put on a demo could do alot of good for the chase community. I have had several teachers recently ask if I would be willing to put on some type of program. This is wonderful PR, and could possibly be coordinated with the NWS and local Emergency Management offices. I agree. My sons school asked me if I might be interested in doing something when they do their weather module next year. I think its an excellent idea.

I'm all for this as long as its not elitism.

Melissa

[Anonymous]

I too, think that's a wonderful outreach. Who knows how far that can develop!!

[Jeff Miller]

And again, as in the other thread, last post was mine. My apologies.

[Bill Hamilton]

I would be all for it as well. There are chasers out there who care enough about their community to help educate them and show that chasers are there as an asset to their community during storm season providing assistance and information. Along with the off-season education and preparedness. Not all chasers are in it for the "ME, ME, ME" factor!

I would help out in any capacity that I could be of help in.

[Shane Adams]

I'm in it for ME. I don't work my ass off all year to spend my Spring worrying about every Tom Dick & Harry that I pass by while on the road persuing convective love.

Why do I have to be obligated to "give back to the community"? What am I taking from it? I chase a phenomenon that's there anyway, regardless of me. I buy gas, snacks, and occasionally (unfortunately) line the pockets of local mechanics. Who the hell is anyone to say I need to give something back? For what? For being seen as such a menace (while doing a good deed) that online forums get crowded up with posts about starting organizations to stop the negative perception of chasers?

I'm out there on my own. I make it happen, I pay the way, I drive the miles. I don't need to be given a guilt trip about how, after all I sacrifice to chase, I still need to think about the other guy...screw the other guy. I'm out there busting my ass to do something I love....and there is NO ONE who is gonna sit here and tell me I need to give back anything to anyone.

And anyone who feels the need to bitch or argue this point, next year go spend your $3000 grand and let someone else lead you around by your coattails.......then come tell me about giving back.

This is becoming less a forum about chasing and more like an online tupperware party.

[Blake W. Naftel]

While browsing this thread; a word that stuck an annoying chord jumped out at me... "elections". There have been several "groups" in the past five years, one of which is in existence (serving no real purpose besides furthering individual egos), that have adhered this format. All have failed due to interpersonal conflict within the "organization" (I have organizations in quotes because it's really only an organization within the individual minds whom control it). While long standing organizations such as the American Meteorological Society, National Weather Association - and well, any basic form of government adheres to this format... I foresee problems within this tightkint group of individuals (storm chasers/wx. enthusiasts in general). Someone's feelings will get hurt (just look at these forums, and old school listservs such as WX-CHASE), a huge flamewar will result, and everything will be back at square-one dejavu again.

Disagree with me if you'd like; that's what these discussions are for; but be forewarned from an individual whom has watched this *exact* situation develop and transpire repeatedly over the past ten years... there will be problems within this "association" unless carefully managed; but eventually, there will be conflict ... that's storm chaser culture and human nature!

My opinions only.

..Blake..

[Shyanna Busch]

As everyone knows, I do not chase at this moment, but I hope to one day. If this association were to get started, I would volunteer my time to help with the paperwork/office type duties (writing and seding out memos, scheduling appts, keeping track of membership, etc.) that would be involved so others could be out actually chasing. At this moment in my life, I have a pretty laid back schedule. I only work 2 1/2 days per week. Travel would be a problem, but with the internet, I could do quite a bit from home.

[Jeff Miller]

In any organization that develops there is a risk for "problems". This goes for religion (church splits), non profit orginizations, political parties, government, small business, large business, and even online forums. Its a fact of life with any and everything that is started.

The equation that causes failure in this situation is the inability to look at the big picture. Could things like this happen in a new association? of course! should that stop us from trying? If so, then there should never be any new associations/businesses/etc if there is fear of this. If we cannot look past hurt feelings and maintain looking at our vision and goals, then I would venture to say that those types do not belong in business anyway. I'm sure we would know better, considering the passion about what we do, to maintain professionalism in every circumstance.

[Mike Peregrine]

Shy - thank you for the offer ... it's very nice when people have a willing attitude. As it is, the administration process would be very simple ... at work I'm able to maintain all the paperwork for several similar organizations in just a very small part of my workweek, so I really appreciate the offer but that end should be covered pretty easily. The real job actually comes in marketing and business management aspects of things. As the attorney I spoke with said - 'the legal end of these deals is simple ... anyone can do it.'

If it does get done at some point in the future, I'm sure all of us can find things we can do to help out - just keep that attitude alive. :)

[John Diel]

I've gained some small experience in working with a Semi-Pro Football team. I've done a lot of their promo materials and graphics and sent out news blurds to all the local Newspapers and Radio Stations. If you think that would help in some small way, I can certainly give a go at it.

John

[Jeff Miller]

I have over 7 years of combined sales and marketing experience, and hundreds of hours of sales training in most aspects. Though not at the level required for mgt. of the entity, I am more than willing to volunteer my services and training for the cause.

[tony rogers]

I support this fully. If this gets under way, I will do anything that I can,even though i'm just 13 1/2. Whatever I can do, I will do. That I can promise you.

I just have one question: Will there be age limits?

[Melissa Moon]

Penny for my thoughts (http://www.srl.utu.fi/AuxDOC/tke/stuff9/donkey.jpg)

[Amos Magliocco]

Obviously some people think this is a terrible idea. Okay. Some people think there will be problems with it. Definitely. But some of the emotional reactions in this and in other threads seem very strange.

If you don't like the idea, ignore it. If you don't want to read about it, don't come into the "Storm Chasing Association" section of the website. I can't understand what's to be gained by attacking the idea and pointing out all the possible pitfalls. Every human endeavor contains the risk of failure, right? As chasers, don't we know that better than anyone?

As far as I can tell there are no 'secret' motivations on the part of people trying to organize this. They're not out to damage chasing, or change anyone else's experience.

Maybe I've fallen behind from not having read every post the last 48 hours, but from what I can tell, all this Association would do is (1) promote the positive aspects of chasing to media, EM personnel, and law enforcement through press releases and web-based info and (2) expose new chasers to various ideas about chasing safely and responsibly.

Can someone tell me how in the hell those ideas are threatening to anyone? That's about as benign and harmless a mission as I can imagine for ANY organization.

PS: I should add to this that I'm not in favor of elections for anything other than a board of directors that would change annually with NOBODY serving more than one term at a time. And those directors would be expected to maintain the site, write the releases, etc etc---WITHOUT PAY. So basically a volunteer position that would require some work. No presidents or chairpeople or Prime Ministers or Secretary of Thayer County, Nebraska. There are plenty of paths for an ego trip in and around stormchasing and this shouldn't be another one. All this should be, in my opinion, is a clearinghouse for POSITIVE news about chasing. That's it.

[Amos Magliocco]

Maybe we can all agree that, at this point, we don't even know what we're arguing about. There are no specifics on the table, no details or formal plans to accept, reject, or debate. All we're debating now are theoretical ideas of what something like this might look like, and those who in general don't like the idea come up with the worst case scenario, and people like me come up with the best case scenario, but neither is particularly grounded in reality.

Would it make more sense to get a few specific ideas on the table first, then decide if they're good or bad? A few people are working on this, myself included, not because we want to be 'in charge' but because we want to get opinions on specific ideas. It's very difficult for opponents to assail ambiguity, then have supporters respond with more ambiguity--all of it pulled out of the air.

Are people willing at least to look at some specifics in a few days and keep an open mind until then?

[John Diel]

I'm certainly will. Have to crawl before we can walk.

John

[Bill Tabor]

Looks like I may have initially posted this in the wrong section. Here it is again:

You know I think it just comes down to a few action minded people (chasers) deciding if they want to create an organization or not. Someone has to come forward. I mean I could create an association (for instance) and then it's success would just depend on whether others joined it or not, and if they participate, etc.

Who or what entity provided for SkyWarn's creation and mandate? Was it just a bunch of public or government?

I see one of the main potential benefits of a national chaser org would be that it would eventually be a recognized and documented entity that people and government officials (read law enforcement) as well as local spotters would recognize. Being a member of this recognized org might allow chasers to call in reports of weather with less doubt than currently given to Skywarn members, and local law might consider us part of the 'has business being here' crowd. That distinction could then separate many of the more involved chasers from just locals that come out and cause traffic jams and problems for instance.

Obviously the association would have a charter and a mission. What would they be? Here's a few thoughts:

1) Establishment of a National Chaser Association
2) Guidelines and accepted rules of behavior that members are required to swear and adhere to.

Generally the guidelines would be that we conduct chases in a sane fashion with not endangering the public and not breaking the law. We wouldn't be required to call stuff in, but the association would facilitate identification of trained chaser reports possibly by a member number. This would be explained to NWS, and they would provide buy in.

There might be recommendations about helping those in need, etc but not necessarily requirements. In other words I want it to be a vehicle for credibility and public recognition for media exposure but not a millstone around the neck of chasers as a set of required rules.

[Bill Tabor]

Anyway, those are some of my brief thoughts...above. It kind of reminds me of AOPA for private pilots. They are like a special interest lobby group for pilots before government and also are spokespeople for the General Aviation enthusiast - supporting GA and helping to keep laws and public opinion in favor of GA.

Another cool thing is the AOPA org gets discounts for it's members from hotels, and air fare, etc.

I'm not totally convinced, but I think if there was such an organization that I might consider joining it.

[Sara Johnson]

I support this too mostly for the reasons given. It would not be some hierarchy or dictatorship and I believe it should be held with a similar regard as Stormtrack has done for forums. Another bonus (along the lines of media) is a voice back to the media instead of 200 e-mails with varying opinions. I think as a benefit, there is the protection to new chasers and the chasing community. Promoting safety and suggesting that those considering chasing really give it serious thought.

As an aside, I would also support having experienced chasers heading up the group. However, including the opinions of a couple of chasers with 5 or fewer years of chasing would provide diverse opinions. Those folks could be chosen (by others) to represent. I also agree that leaving this forum open for more views (even if the idea is tabled) may yield more input and therefore more areas of consideration which could increase universal chaser support.

[Scott Olson]

To me this seems like a really reasonable idea. I don't know what ever happend to this idea but from reading this thread the consensus seems to be that there was good support for it. With whats going on right now with the Santorum bill it brings to light the danger backdoor legislation can have on our hobby/business. Having a body to help represent us certainly could only help. What do you all think, is this idea still worthwhile? With the annual gathering coming up we really could act on this and at least attempt to create a body which could not only represent storm chasing better but facilitate better education for new chasers and a helping hand in the selling of our materials.

-Scott.

[John Diel]

You know... This swirled around last year over some pretty serious allegations made about the "Chaser" community as a whole. Not just members of ST. This idea never really got off the ground. There were a lot of motions, but in the end, it died.

I doubt it will get going again. If it does, I don't expect it to get much further than where it did last year.

That's just my observations from what I've seen here and with others that actually got going for a time.

[Mike Peregrine]

Didn't realize this topic was even still on the board anywhere.

At the risk of resurrecting this, the reality seems to be that chasers prefer to operate loosely and autonomously, feeling for the most part that nothing or no one is able to interfere with them ... they chase nature's most powerful instrument of destruction, after all ... what can a few legislators or cops possibly do. It's an assumption that this has worked fine so far as it is, so why mess with it. The only thing that will likely affect this thinking is if and when something were to suddenly thrust chasing into the public eye in a powerfully negative way. Last year there were several things that happened which motivated the media to react negatively to the chase community. It can be logically assumed that in time such thinking may become further aggravated if someone with the ability and power decides to focus on what they perceive to be negative.

So at this point we are running a gamble. We are gambling that no one will do something that casts chasers under a pall. We are gambling that no one will get killed or by their actions cause someone else to get killed. As with all gambles, the odds favor that at some point we can expect a loss.

We are also running a gamble that no one comes along now and decides to force this issue in their own way, possibly with an undesirable impact. Since the community has elected to ignore the issue, then the community will have to cope with any result ... including the possibility that someone they do not like or approve of is suddenly given the power and authority to administer things in a way they do not like. It's a choice that people have made for themselves, but again - a gamble. If so-and-so is suddenly elected king storm chaser by the government, for example, and they decide through their organization to force chasers to do whatever they want in order that they might continue chasing, then that organization may one day have the power to do so. Again, it is seems to be the choice of the community that we prefer for things to move in that direction rather than in a controlled direction where we have the voice.

[Jeff Miller]

This thread will briefly rise, and just as soon die off. The reality is there are several discussions that are as seasonal as chase times... amber lights, discussions on a particular controversial chaser, now its the time for the storm chase association thing and next up will be chase ethics. This idea will flicker out and again, hibernate....for a season just to be ressurected again....and hibernate.

I had full support for this last year, providing chasers kept their independence... but I know now this will go nowhere. If it somehow by a miracle does, I will support it. For now, I am just waiting to finally get some chasing in :)

[Darren Addy]

. . . the reality seems to be that chasers prefer to operate loosely and autonomously, feeling for the most part that nothing or no one is able to interfere with them. . .

While this is true, there IS a certain amount of positive peer pressure that is exerted by any group in society, and storm chaser's appear to be no exception. No one wants to be labeled a "yahoo" and there are some rules of conduct that go with being considered a real storm chaser that involve some safety and personal responsibility.

There may not be any interest in creating a Good Storm Chaser's Seal of Approval, but it is clearly a benefit to "the community" the fewer yahoos there are out there. That can probably be done best through education (sites such as this) and example, etc. but I think the original motivation for this idea came from a good place. However, organizing storm chasers in this way strikes me a bit like herding cats. :wink:

Without an "official" mouthpiece, the media will grab who they will, and some in the chaser community will catch on to the marketing game faster than others (as in "Twister Sisters"?). Hope that those who do, represent you well.

Darren Addy
Kearney, NE

[Mikel Shively]

I agree that there needs to some sort of organization for storm chasing. I am also in agreement with the fact there needs to be some sort of mouthpiece for storm chasers.

[Dave Carroll]

If, after enough support is garnered, and an organization/association does indeed take shape, one of its MAIN objectives certainly should center around the perception of storm chasing as a whole, not only with the public, but especially with law enforcement, etc.

Related to this, I also spend quite a bit of time rockclimbing, which is also viewed by many as a maniacal activity. However, in the climbing community, an organization blossomed (known as the Access Fund) which promotes safe, responsible climbing among its members. They also work on an informal (and sometimes formal) basis with local land managers, etc. to ensure the future of their activity. They have had a great deal of success in opening areas previously closed, and have changed the image of climbing in areas where problems existed.

I can see some parallels here, especially in areas where chasers are not seen in the best light in the law enforcement community. Perhaps there may be some opportunities here to communicate with officials in some areas where animosity does exist at some level. Anything that increases the positive perception of chasing as a serious and responsible hobby can only be a good thing for ALL chasers, regardless whether they are "members" or not.

From that perspective alone, I think the idea is certainly worth investigating, and would be willing to help. -DC