Fox 13 Weather

WWW.MYFOXMEMPHIS.COM

2006-10-02T15:31:00.000-07:00

Surely you've heard by now.

www.myfoxmemphis.com

We've got a blazing new webstie.

www.myfoxmemphis.com

You've gotta check it out.

www.myfoxmemphis.com

I'll have my NEW blog there, and you can start YOUR blog there as well!

www.myfoxmemphis.com

(they're trying to iron out my blog issues...I'll update you here when it's ready to read. Until then, check out our lightning-fast video! And soon....Fox shows ON DEMAND!!! For FREE!!!)

WWW.MYFOXMEMPHIS.COM

Just a Few Days from Now.....

2006-09-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

And you'll only read about it here!

This Sunday, tune into Fox13 to find out about our AMAZING NEW WEBSITE!!!

Exactly what will you find out?

Where it is and all the very cool things it will do for you! And you WILL be amazed. It's got video...it's got audio...it's got widgets...it's got weather...it's got live windows on the Mid-South...it's got WAYS for YOU to SOUND OFF or do your own thing!

It is the sweetest site to hit the Mid-South, and I promise, you're going to LOVE IT!

Man oh Man oh Man oh Man

2006-09-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

Whatta crowd!! Did you see it? Surely you caught a glimpse on Fox at some point Sunday!

Over 16,000 people came downtown at (or before) 6 a.m. on Sunday for the first round of auditions for American Idol: Memphis!!!!

And now, for the inside scoop, brought to you by the good folk here at Fox13. We spent much of the day with Fox publicist Alex Gillespie (a virtual encyclopedia of all things Idol), and even spent time talking with Idol creator (and star judge of "So You Think You Can Dance") Nigel Lythgoe.

So here's some stuff you may not know....or at least will find interesting:

Memphis had the largest turnout of any city Idol has gone to this year. That means we beat New Jersey (New York), Los Angeles, (are you kidding me?), Birmingham (home of Ruben and Taylor!) and San Antonio! Pretty good, huh? I mean, it's not like we simply beat El Paso. We were up against some heavy hitters!

Idol producers will often search the crowd BEFORE auditions....when the crowd doesn't even KNOW it....looking for people they want to see more of. This lets you know that personality and presence counts. Now, note that I didn't say 'crazy' or 'goofy'. Apparently, they can spot people who have a 'look', or are confident. Good for you to know if you're gonna audition down the line.

I asked Nigel if A.I. would come back to Memphis, given the huge turnout. He said, "It depends on the level of talent we find here. Quite honestly, it all comes down to that." On the other hand, he said "It's also possible to exhaust an area...to get all the current talent out of it that you can". Interesting also.

I thought this was funny: Nigel then asked ME, "So why do you think there's so little talent in north America?" (and by this, he meant, why do all of the finalists and winners come from the south?) So I said, "I was going to ask you that." And HE said, "I want to ask YOU that". So I said "Well, this is the home of rhythm and blues, gospel music, and we are on the delta". And HE said, "And you do have many people singing in church from an early age....that is good training. However, they've shown us today that many of them feel like volume will get them closer to God. They have seriously made our ears bleed!" (True statement. This guy was very funny.)

There are 3 rounds of auditions: Round 1 - you stand at a table of producers with 3 other people, and are asked to sing. Apparently, everyone came to the Memphis auditions ready to sing gospel, because everyone we spoke with who came out after their tryouts said they were told to NOT sing gospel....that isn't what they're looking for. If you made it past that, you were given a BLUE sheet of paper (and the success rate, why Nigel said is impossible to accurately predict, is normally around 2% in this round. Sheesh! 2% out of 16,000!) Onto Round 2 - which was TODAY (Monday, the 4th) at a different (but nearby) location. Here, each singer met one-on-one with one of 2 Idol producers....one of which was Nigel. Nigel told me they're looking for that "it" factor. He couldn't explain it, but he knew it when he saw it. Then, of course, is the most visible Round 3 - where Randy, Simon and Pauler (as Nigel called her) come to Memphis to see who makes it from here to Hollywood (the famed Golden Ticket). That will happen sometime in October.

Over and over, after speaking with a number of first round winners AND losers...it would seem that the group that was confident...made eye contact...took their time...worked the judges, so to speak....went on to the next round. Do what you want with that info.

And here's something that NOBODY knows about except for you faithful FoxWeatherBlog readers, 'cuz I haven't told anybody else (besides Fox publicist Alex Gillespie who seemed very surprised): As my photorapher and I were walking away from the FedExForum in early afternoon, to go back to the station to edit our story before the show, we went past a guy who had stopped his car on the street, in front of the Forum's back entrance (where around 50 people were hangin' out, chillin', smokin', practicin' for their tryout); he had the doors open, the trunk popped, and music playing loud. Huge afro. As we went past, I recognized him, as he tried to hold court with whomever would come up to talk: It was Corey, from last season! The dude he said he slept with Paula! (remember all that brouhaha?) He drove to Memphis, for some reason....probably to push his CD (which is probably what I heard coming out of the car).

Interesting, huh?

So the Idol producers had the crowd (in the a.m., before they swarmed inside) tape a whole bunch of intros, like "Season 6 of American Idol Starts Now!!!" and "American Idol Rocks!!!". Should be VERY cool to see that when the season starts.

Until then, Memphis is off to a great start!!!

Cover Me! I'm Going In!!

2006-09-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

So I'm not usually in the station on a Sunday. That's a family day. But today's a bit different: It's the Labor Day weekend, and the American Idol auditions started this morning.

So, I come in....it's quiet, as I would expect for a Sunday morning. And then I found an exhausted-looking Tom Dees and Tealy Devereaux (they went down to the FedExForum at around 4 a.m.). They said, and I quote, "That crowd was humongous".

Now, that sounds extreme, right? Then I went and found FoxPhotographer Matt Baker, who was looking at the video he had shot from this morning. He said, "you gotta check this out". So I watched as he rolled tape.....

...and I gotta tell you, it looked like one of the biggest crowds ever. At one point, the crowd filled the plaza in front of the Forum (which is HUGE) AND continued to snake - about 50 people wide - for at least 4 CITY BLOCKS. Couldn't even see the end.

The producers from American Idol were out there taping promos....you know, getting the crowd to say things like "American Idol Season 5 starts NOW!" (I think it was season 5.....I was still overwhelmed by the size of the crowd to pay complete attention to what they were screaming).

SO....I'm about to head down there myself (in the next 4 minutes) with FoxPhotog Mike Schlissel to see what we can find. Then Mearl and I are going to go live from 5 to 6 p.m. this afternoon from the FedExForum plaza....and I'll tell you more right here later!

Great Quote!

2006-09-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

"Never tell anyone it can't be done.....God may have been waiting for centuries for somebody ignorant of the impossible to do that very thing."

- J. A. Holmes

How To: Handle a Power Outage!

2006-08-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

With the first hurricane of 2006 possibly building (Ernesto), and (as of now) heading for the Gulf Coast, I thought it would be a good time to go over a few helpful 'power' suggestions.

We all live, quite comfortably, plugged into the grid. However, during a natural disaster, the grid is usually the first thing to go, leaving us without all the amenities we're so used to: air conditioning, ice, tv, etc.

But! It's still possible to survive, and even figure out a few creature comforts!

Read on, Fox Soldier.

Empower yourself in power outages
Some items to help you get by after the storm

BY MATT REED
FLORIDA TODAY

Let's talk about your sanity.

Specifically, let's list a few things you'll need to prevent a mental meltdown when a storm strikes, the power goes out for days, and nothing -- nothing -- seems to work.

These will soothe the savage inside you:

A gas grill and a fresh tank of propane.
If you've got a grill, you've got a cooktop, a coffee maker, a water purifier, even a dishwasher. You'll use it a lont, especially to boil water. Make sure you've got a fresh tank of propane.

A coffee plan.
Starbucks probably won't be open. And if you depend on an electric coffee maker, now is the time to find its emergency stand-in. Best bet: an old-fashioned camp percolator (in the sporting goods section of your nearest big box store) which can go on the grill. Or, you can ladle hot water into a French press, also widely available. And if you take cream or milk, you'll need the powdered stuff.

Battery-powered reading light.
Hot, humid nights with no cable or computer can feel awfully long. A good book and a reliable light can be just the salve.

Neighbors.
Good neighbors are as good as gold after a storm. They serve as one another's counselors, security guards, news outlets and 24-hour tree-cutters and roofers. Don't wait until the storm hits to introduce yourself.

An old land-line telephone with spiral handset cord.
Phone service often outlasts electricity. If there's no power, that cordless model won't work.

Cell phone-charger for your car.
How else will you charge it?

A grasp of the four-way stop.
When traffic signals go out, every intersection becomes a four-way stop. To stay alive, remember: STOP. Yield to the car on the right. Repeat.

ABC News: Scientists Add Years to Ozone Recovery

2006-08-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

ABC News: Scientists Add Years to Ozone Recovery

Viewer Photo

2006-08-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

Say hello to Chaseton Whitten!

Chaseton and his family went to Gulf Shores, Alabama for vacation this summer.

On July 3rd, Chaseton was out on the beach when he had his picture taken....and he couldn't figure out why everyone was running and screaming. He figured it was just a bad-hair day.

The Whitten's just happened to capture a waterspout in action over the Gulf of Mexico!

Great shot, and thanks to the Whitten's of Selmer, TN.

A Letter to Southerners From President Bush....

2006-08-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

What about it!!!!!???!!!

George W. issued this letter, which was revealed last night at 9 p.m. by our good friends at Elvis Presley Enterprises to all the fans and friends attending the 29th annual Candlelight Vigil.

(you may want to save it and increase the size to read the text better...it's the largest file size I could save; sorry!)

We had a great time last night at Graceland....the weather was FANTASTIC!....the fans were as friendly as ever....the Elvis music was floating across the mild southern night, clear as a bell and sweet as an angel.

It was very cool.

Big mid-south shout out to the Prez for recognizing our most awesome Memphis event!

I'm telling you, it's not me!!!

2006-08-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

It's PHOTOSHOP!!!

Seriously.

For real.

It's Candlelight Vigil night...

2006-08-15T15:31:00.000-07:00

....and I thought it appropriate to share some King with you.

Last Friday night I emceed the 2006 Elvis Tribute Artist Showcase presented by Elvis Presley Enterprise's. It was a blast.

3 very talented cats: Donny Edwards, Irv Cass and Shawn Klush.

Great show. And because you probably missed it this year (but shouldn't next year), I'm gonna share some photos.

BONUS!!!

I'm also adding some spectacular Photoshop work in this group. My good friend Jim Umlauf, who is a skilled shutterbug and even more skilled image-manipulator, sent me two photos of my head on an ETA (Elvis Tribut Artist) body.

Looks real,doesn't it? That's my noggin gracing Irv's "If I Can Dream" segment, and then Shawn's "Vegas Showcase" respectfully.

Dig it.

More than 2300 Daily-Temp Records Broken

2006-08-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

courtesy of NOAA

U.S. HAS ITS SECOND-HOTTEST JULY ON RECORD; DROUGHT CONDITIONS WORSEN
August 7, 2006 — The continental United States suffered through its second-hottest July on record because of a blistering heat wave from California to Washington, D.C. The heat wave broke more than 2,300 daily temperature records for the month and eclipsed more than 50 records for the highest temperatures in any July, according to the NOAA National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C. The hottest July on record occurred in 1936, and the third hottest was 1934. (Click NOAA image for larger view of July 2006 statewide temperature rankings. Please credit “NOAA.”)

The agency also reported that the first seven months of 2006 was the warmest January-July of any year the United States since records began in 1895. And, the scorching temperatures, combined with a shortage of rainfall, expanded moderate-to-extreme drought conditions in areas already hard hit.

U.S. Temperature HighlightsThe average July 2006 temperature for the contiguous United States (based on preliminary data) was 77.2 degrees F (25.1 C). More than 90 records for the highest night-time temperatures for July were broken. The average January - July 2006 temperature was 55.3 degrees F (12.9 C), which beat the previous record set in 1934.
The Residential Energy Demand Temperature Index (REDTI), which provides information related to climate sensitive residential energy demand, ranked as the fourth highest July index in the 112-year record. Using this index, NOAA scientists determined that the nation’s residential energy demand was approximately 22 percent higher than that which would have occurred under average climate conditions for the month.

The average July temperature (based on the statistical mean from 1901 - 2000) is 74.3 degrees F. The July 1936 record temperature was 77.5 degrees F. The July 1934 average temperature (third highest on record) was 77.1 degrees F. The previous January - July cumulative record temperature was 54.8 degrees F (set in 1934).

NOAA scientists add that no single episode of extreme heat can be blamed exclusively on human-induced global warming, but instead heat waves will become more likely and progressively more intense over the course of decades. Changes in the frequency and intensity of heat waves across North America will be comprehensively assessed in the forthcoming Climate Change Synthesis and Assessment Product 3.3.

blah blah hot blah blah

2006-08-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

okay. we've been talking about the heat for so long, I'm boring myself.

so let's move on.

did you know that during the labor day weekend in september (less than a month away), that the American Idol auditions will be held at the FedExForum?

that's right! YOU could be discovered! YOU could get a golden ticket to hollywood! YOU could be the next AMERICAN IDOL!!! (i personally feel like memphis has been overdue to put a finalist on the stage, so this could really be your year!)

i'll be right there for all the action....FOX13 cameras will be meeting and interviewing scores of talented people and we hope you're among them.

make your plans: FedExFoum -- labor day weekend!

2006-08-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

It's that time, baby!!!!

Elvis week is almost upon us, and this year, it starts with something a little more special:

For the first time ever, there will be a Graceland sponsored Elvis Tribute Artist Showcase!!! (and I'm the Emcee!!!)

Friday Night, August 11th, at 8 p.m. at the Mempis Marriott East. Tickets are a very reasonable $30.

As most of you already know, I'm a huge E-fan, and 'bout this time of year (ever year), I break out all my favorite Elvis cd's (and some of my own burn mixes), and start gettin' in the mood. There's about to be a jumpsuit-load of events to check out, but if you have the time, you've got to come to this showcase. It's gonna be great.

Lookign for what else is going on? Check out this listing from Elvis.com:

FRIDAY 11

The Elvis Presley Memorial Trauma Center Reception - The MED Foundation 10:00 AM. The Park Café, 1st Floor - Jefferson Building, The Regional Center at Memphis, 877 Jefferson Ave., Memphis. For more information, contact The MED Foundation at (901) 545-8372. Also, tours of the trauma center are available 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM, August 11-16. For a tour, please check in at the information desk uponn your arrival.

Merchandise and Memorabilia Showroom – Day 1 of 3 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. The Pyramid Ballroom. Sales and display booths featuring EPE product licensees and noted dealers of vintage Elvis records and collectible memorabilia. Elvis friends and associates who are participating in the Elvis Insiders Conference will be scheduled for autograph sessions at various times during the three days the Merchandise & Memorabilia Showroom is open. To find out who, go to the conference web site and scroll down the column on the far right. The showroom is open to Elvis Insiders as part of their Elvis Insiders Conference admission – just flash your pass from either day of the conference. Open to all fans from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for a $10.00 one-day pass available at the door. Starting at 5:00 PM it is the site of the Elvis Insiders Meet & Greet event.

Humes Middle School - "Elvis Room" Open House10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Humes Middle School (formerly Humes High School, Elvis's alma mater), 659 North Manaassas. The school will open its doors to Elvis fans for a viewing of the recently renovated Elvis Room/Memphis Music Media and Learning Center. With generous donations from Elvis fans from around the world and hard work from the employees of Elvis Presley Enterprises, the room underwent a two-day makeover with fresh paint, new pictures and more to whip the room into shape for the start of Elvis Week and the new school year. The room is anchored by three display cases that show class photos, yearbooks, letter jacket patches, a replica of Elvis’s diploma and other items from his days at Humes. One corner of the room takes visitors back to the 50’s as vintage classroom furniture shows students and visitors what the school looked like when Elvis roamed its halls. The room will not only welcome Elvis fans, but also give students the opportunity to learn about their school’s history and the story of Memphis music. A media station surrounded by two large Elvis-themed inflatable chairs will allow students to sample the sounds of Elvis and other Memphis music legends. The focal point of the room is a large wall mural in the Humes school colors designed by New York artist and Elvis fan Joe Petruccio. The digitally enlarged painting features Elvis along with Isaac Hayes, Al Green, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Little Milton and BB King.

Elvis Insiders Conference – Day 1 of 2 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. Cotillion Ballroom. The annual Elvis Week gathering of members of The Official Elvis Insiders. This year, for the first time, the conference expands from one day to two! Elvis Presley Enterprises is putting together two very full days of special programming exclusively for the Elvis Insiders. See special conference web site.Longtime friend of Elvis, entertainment producer Jerry Schilling, who will give the Insiders a special preview of his much anticipated book Me And A Guy Named Elvis, My Lifelong Friendship with Elvis Presley, which is set for publication on August 17, 2006 by Gotham Books, but advance copies will be available for purchase and signing. (See message from Jerry); June Jaunico, who dated Elvis in 1955-57 during his rise to fame, will share her recollections; famed photographer Alfred Wertheimer, who followed Elvis around with his camera with unfettered access for several weeks in 1956, will show some never-before-seen photos; and dancer Tanya Lemani George, who belly-danced in Elvis's '68 Comeback TV special, will share memories of working with Elvis on the show. We'll hear even more about the early years of Elvis's career from Maxine Brown Russell, who was a member of the singing trio The Browns and toured with Elvis early in his career.We'll also show footage shot at Elvis's manager Colonel Tom Parker's place in Madison, Tennessee when the Graceland/EPE staff went there in October 1990 to pack up his collection of documents, photographs, memorabilia and more after purchasing the Colonel's collection. Our popular host with the most, Elvis Insider Tom Brown, vice-president of production for Turner Classic Movies, returns as the conference emcee. More program details to be announced.Advance ticket purchase strongly recommended as we do expect a sell-out. Admission prices: $38.00 Adults/$19.00 Children 7-12/Children 6 & under free, for a one-day ticket good for either day of the conference; or $60.00 Adults/$30.00 Children 7-12/Children 6 & under free, for a ticket for both days of the conference. With the one-day or two-day ticket, all attendees receive the collectible conference bear, a door prize, and the conference welcome kit loaded with cool Elvis stuff. The Elvis Merchandise and Memorabilia Showroom will be open 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM in The Pyramid Ballroom. All conference tickets include admission into the showroom. From all parts of the world call (901) 332-3322, or from the USA and Canada call toll-free 800-238-2000. E-mail glsales@elvis.com. Tickets on sale now.Elvis Insiders Conference Audio Feed - Can't be in Memphis for Elvis Week 2006? You can listen in LIVE as to The Elvis Insiders Conference or listen to a recording after the event. More information on hearing the conference will be posted on the Elvis Insiders message board. If you aren't a member, join today so you can experience this historic event for yourself in person or through the audio feed.August Memphis Elvis Meetup 7:00 PM. Blue Shoe Bar & Grill, Memphis Marriott East, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Memphis. If you are planning on attending the 8 PM concert, feel free to join the meetup until the show starts. A dinner menu will be available - each member will pay for their own food and beverages. Door Prizes and surprises. A $1.00 donation is requested to cover the cost of the Meetup membership and any monies left over will be donated to a charity chosen by the group. Click here to RSVP.

Elvis Tribute Artist Showcase
8:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. Cotillion Ballroom. A concert of Elvis music performed by Elvis tribute artists Shawn Klush, Donny Edwards and Irv Cass, backed by the ExSpense Account Showband. Emceed by Memphis media personality Joey Sulipeck. Admission $30 in advance or at the door. Open seating. From all parts of the world call (901) 332-3322, or from the USA and Canada call toll-free 800-238-2000. E-mail glsales@elvis.com. Tickets on sale now.

SATURDAY 12

D&N's Leis for Elvis and United Cerebral Palsy 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM. Registration table for 24th Annual Elvis Presley International 5K Run & Fun Walk in the open entertainment pavilion at Graceland. D&N's Elvis Presley Fan Club is selling Leis for Elvis and United Cerebral Palsy. Leis will be available race day, 8/12/06, at the 5K registration table for $4.00 each, through the website www.ucpmemphis.org, or through D&N's members during Elvis Week 2006. 24th Annual Elvis Presley International 5K - United Cerebral Palsy of the Mid-South8:00 AM. Starts and finishes in front of Graceland. Join thousands of Elvis fans and runners at Graceland for the 24th Annual Elvis Presley International 5K benefiting United Cerebral Palsy of the Mid-South. Approximately 2,000 entrants from around the world will join in the family fun while enjoying the festive atmosphere of Elvis Week 2006 and raising money for UCP. Pre-registration is $20.00. Race day registration is $25.00. To register, contact Joanie at 901-761-4277 or jnuchols@ucpmemphis.org or register online by going to www.elvispresley5k.racesonline.com."

Walk-A-Mile In My Shoes" from Sweet Magnolia Tours Boarding at 8:15 AM. Departure at 8:30 AM. Tour returns at 4:30 PM. Tour departs from Graceland parking lot next to the Heartbreak Hotel. Bus will be at the walkway from the hotel to the Graceland parking lot. An all-Elvis full-day Memphis city tour tracing the early years before Graceland. Experience life as Elvis knew it on this special tour that includes tours inside Lauderdale Courts, where Elvis lived as a teenager, the Memphian Theater, Super Cycle, Pop Tunes, and Forest Hill Cemetery. There will be many more Elvis sites and opportunities for pictures stops at such places as the Overton Park Shell, Humes High School, Libertyland, the Coliseum, Elvis Audubon Drive home, site of Lansky's on Beale St. and the Chisca Hotel. Fully-narrated 8-hour all-Elvis city tour includes transportation, Lauderdale Courts Apartment Tour, Super Cycle, Memphian Theater, and Forest Hill Cemetery. Cost per person is $50.00. For questions or to make your reservations, call 1-866-320-5295 or click here.

Merchandise and Memorabilia Showroom – Day 2 of 3 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. The Pyramid Ballroom. Sales and display booths featuring EPE product licensees and noted dealers of vintage Elvis records and collectible memorabilia. Elvis friends and associates who are participating in the Elvis Insiders Conference will be scheduled for autograph sessions at various times during the three days the Merchandise & Memorabilia Showroom is open. To find out who, go to the conference web site and scroll down the column on the far right. Open to Elvis Insiders as part of their Elvis Insiders Conference admission – just flash your pass from either day of the conference. Open to all fans for a $10.00 one-day pass available at the door.
Elvis Insiders Conference – Day 2 of 210:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. Cotillion Ballroom. The annual Elvis Week gathering of members of The Official Elvis Insiders. This year, for the first time, the conference expands from one day to two! Elvis Presley Enterprises is putting together two very full days of special programming exclusively for the Elvis Insiders. See special conference web site.Singer Pat Boone, who knew Elvis professionally and personally, will share his special memories of Elvis, some of which he has never discussed publicly; Actress, poet, Academy Award nominated songwriter and former girlfriend of Elvis, Linda Thompson, will share her unique perspective on Elvis in her first-ever Elvis Week appearance. Sam Thompson will join us to share memories of his friendship with Elvis and of being a member of his personal staff in the 1970s. Andrew Solt, head of SOFA Entertainment, owner of the Ed Sullivan Show catalog, will screen clips (some previously unreleased) from Elvis's three appearances on the program. Joining him in sharing some of the behind-the-scenes history of Elvis on Sullivan will be Jordanaires member Gordon Stoker, who performed with Elvis on all three of his Sullivan appearances. Guitar virtuoso and former Elvis bandmate James Burton will be a guest speaker. Part of the recent Follow That Dream collectors label CD release Made In Memphis is from a private recording Elvis made at Sam's home in November 1972. Also joining us for the conference are William Schallert and Victoria Paige Meyerink, who both appeared with Elvis inthe film Speedway, Chris Noel who appeared with Elvis in the film Girl Happy, and Nancy Rooks, who was a longtime member of Elvis's household staff at Graceland.Our popular host with the most, Elvis Insider Tom Brown, vice-president of production for Turner Classic Movies, returns as the conference emcee. More program details to be announced.Advance ticket purchase strongly recommended as we do expect a sell-out. Admission prices: $38.00 Adults/$19.00 Children 7-12/Children 6 & under free, for a one-day ticket good for either day of the conference; or $60.00 Adults/$30.00 Children 7-12/Children 6 & under free, for a ticket for both days of the conference. With the one-day or two-day ticket, all attendees receive the collectible conference bear, a door prize, and the conference welcome kit loaded with cool Elvis stuff. The Elvis Merchandise and Memorabilia Showroom will be open 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM in The Pyramid Ballroom. All conference tickets include admission into the showroom. From all parts of the world call (901) 332-3322, or from the USA and Canada call toll-free 800-238-2000. E-mail glsales@elvis.com. Tickets on sale now. Elvis Insiders Conference Audio Feed - Can't be in Memphis for Elvis Week 2006? You can listen in LIVE as to The Elvis Insiders Conference or listen to a recording after the event. More information on hearing the conference will be posted on the Elvis Insiders message board. If you aren't a member, join today so you can experience this historic event for yourself in person or through the audio feed.

Davis-Kidd Booksellers – Jerry Schilling – Me and a Guy Named Elvis 1:00 PM. Davis-Kidd Booksellers, 387 Perkins Road Extended on the east end of the Laurelwood Shopping Center. Longtime friend of Elvis, entertainment producer Jerry Schilling will sign copies of his much anticipated book Me And A Guy Named Elvis, My Lifelong Friendship with Elvis Presley, along with co-writer Chuck Crisafulli. Also see listings for books-signings by Jerry and Chuck at the Elvis Insiders Conference (Day 1) on August 11 and at Playhouse on the Square on August 14. (See message from Jerry.)Muvico and Peabody Place Present Chris MacDonald’s “Memories of the King” 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Peabody Place Entertainment and Retail Center, 150 Peabody Place, Memphis. Muvico and Peabody Place present Chris MacDonald’s Memories of the King in Concert. Come join us for a celebration of the King’s life and music from the 50’s, the movies, the black leather ’68 comeback special, and the 1970’s Las Vegas Concerts. Free admission.

The Elvis Week Concert - Terry Mike Jeffrey & The Imperials8:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. Cotillion Ballroom. An evening of Elvis music peformed by Terry Mike Jeffrey and his band, with very special guests The Imperials - Joe Moscheo, Terry Blackwood, Sherman Andrus and Gus Gaches. Admission $40 in advance or at the door. Open seating. From all parts of the world call (901) 332-3322, or from the USA and Canada call toll-free 800-238-2000. E-mail glsales@elvis.com. Tickets on sale now.

SUNDAY 13

Elvis Radio - Gospel Time Live on the Plaza 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM. It's a Graceland Plaza Gospel Sing with Elvis Radio on Sirius Satellite Radio. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to Graceland Plaza near the Elvis Radio studio on Sunday morning and enjoy two hours of Elvis gospel music and sing along. Special guest appearances planned. Free. And for those not in Memphis for Elvis Week, be sure to tune into Elvis Radio on Sirius Satellite Radio on Sunday morning to hear it live from Graceland.

Merchandise and Memorabilia Showroom – Day 3 of 3 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. The Pyramid Ballroom. Sales and display booths featuring EPE product licensees and noted dealers of vintage Elvis records and collectible memorabilia. Elvis friends and associates who are participating in the Elvis Insiders Conference will be scheduled for autograph sessions at various times during the three days the Merchandise & Memorabilia Showroom is open. To find out who, go to the conference web site and scroll down the column on the far right. FREE admission on Sunday, August 13 for all fans.

Elvis Scapbooking Class with EK Success Two classes: 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Walk a Mile in My Shoes Theatre in Graceland Plaza. Check out the all new Elvis scrapbooking items from EPE licensee EK Success that will be available first exclusively at Graceland during Elvis Week 2006. Cost for the class is $10.00. All attendees will learn how to make an Elvis accordion album. Seating for each class is very limited. Tickets will be available at the EK Success booth in the Merchandise and Memorabilia Showroom during Elvis Week.

Elvis Fan Club Presidents’ Event 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. Elvis Presley fan clubs around the world celebrate Elvis all year long with local meetings, donations to charity and more. They are a valuable part of the EPE family. The 2006 fan club presidents' event will celebrate Elvis's movie Speedway with special guest speakers William Schallert, who played the role of Abel Esterlake in the movie, and Victoria Paige Meyerink, who played the role of Ellie Esterlake. Additionally, the program will include a special presentation from EPE leaders and team members, exciting news about developments at Graceland, a look at upcoming projects and licenses and more. This is an invitation-only event. Invitations and registration forms have been sent directly to fan club presidents.A Little Less Conversation Tour by Backbeat Tours 10:30 AM. Second and Beale Street, downtown. Hot young rocker Daniel “Memphis” Jones performs all of your favorite Elvis hits live on the bandstand of a vintage bus as you tour the sites where the famous Elvis-style developed. (Yes, you read correctly, it is a bus with a bandstand!) Learn how Elvis has influenced everyone from the Beatles to recent American Idol winner Taylor Hicks. Compete for prizes in our Elvis karaoke contest, accompany Memphis Jones on tambourine or bongos, or simply sing and clap along. Either way, it’s fun, fun, fun! Tour stops include visits inside Elvis’s Lauderdale Courts apartment, Memphian Theatre, and Lansky's. See Humes High School, American Sound Studios, Elvis’s Audubon Drive home, Plaza Cinema, and more. Tour departs at 10:30 AM from Second and Beale Streets downtown, and returns at 4:00 PM. $65.00 per person includes admission fees and box lunch. For reservations, contact Backbeat Tours at (866) 392-2328.

Scavenger Hunt – Bears on Tour at Graceland 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Starting at the Graceland Ticket Office. Guests are invited to tour Graceland Mansion (no audio tour) and the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum while simultaneously participating in a trivia scavenger hunt. Adult and Junior versions of the scavenger hunt will be available. Prizes for both adult and junior to be announced. All ticket holders to receive a complimentary collectible bear donated by EPE licensee Limited Treasures. This particular edition bear is exclusive to the scavenger hunt event at Graceland and not available anywhere else. Admission: adults $22.00; children 7 – 12 $10.00; children 6 and under are free. A detailed flyer about the scavenger hunt will be posted here prior to Elvis Week and handed out to ticket holders the night of the event. From all parts of the world call (901) 332-3322, or from the USA and Canada call toll-free 800-238-2000. E-mail glsales@elvis.com. Tickets on sale now.George Klein’s Elvis Mafia Reunion 5:00 PM. Alfred’s, 197 Beale Street, Memphis. A reunion of people who were close to Elvis. Lifelong friends and associates of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll reminisce and answer questions. $35.00 admission includes a $10.00 donation to the “Make a Wish” Foundation and dinner for one. Dinner reservations only. Last seating at 4:30 PM. For further information, call Alfred’s and ask for Jay or Brad at (901) 525-3711.

Elvis Week Dance Party 8:00 PM – 12:00 Midnight. Memphis Marriott East - The Official Host Hotel for Elvis Week 2006 at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Memphis, TN. Cotillion Ballroom. Find those poodle skirts or slick back that hair and dance to Elvis music with with dee-jay Argo from Elvis Radio/Sirius 13 hosting and taking your requests. Enjoy a costume contest, door prizes and gift bags. Admission: adults $20.00; children 7-12 $10.00; children 6 and under admitted free. From all parts of the world call (901) 332-3322, or from the USA and Canada call toll-free 800-238-2000. E-mail glsales@elvis.com. Tickets on sale now.The Joe Kent Show with The Memphis Rockers at Hernando’s Hideaway 9:00 PM. Hernando’s Hideaway, 3210 Old Hernando Road, Memphis. Memphis’s own Joe Kent live with the Memphis Rockers. One night only. A home-grown rockin’ tribute to Elvis. $10.00 admission, 2-drink minimum.

He Was Right Here!

2006-08-03T19:28:00.000-07:00

Today, in the FOX13 studios, was one

Mr. Joe Montana!

Our very own Health Reporter Maria Black was speaking with Joe about his campaign against high blood pressure (which he was recently diagnosed with).

Joe looked just like you remember him (and man, is that guy tall. Must have been how he was able to find Jerry Rice in the end zone so many times).

Hope you caught the interview tonight, on Fox13 at 5 and 9!

Coming soon...

2006-08-03T19:23:00.000-07:00

....to a computer screen near you...

AN AMAZING NEW FOX13 WEBSITE!!!

I know...."dude, that's long overdue." Or, "dude, about time". Or, "dude......I forgot what I was going to say!"

In less than a month, Fox13 will be unveiling a fantastic new look, with some very cool (and cutting edge) capabilities. It will be YOUR PLACE to find out what's happening FIRST. And man, do I mean first. Check back to see what I mean.

So, get ready, friends! This is gonna be one sweet ride.

I Know It's Exhausting...

2006-07-31T15:57:00.000-07:00

...but we have to talk about it.

The National Weather Service has extended their Heat Advisory until 7 p.m. Wednesday.

What does all that mean?

Take a gander at their official release:

Heat Advisory
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MEMPHIS TN

312 PM CDT MON JUL 31 2006

ARZ008-009-017-018-026>028-035-036-048-049-058-MOZ113-115-
MSZ001>017-020>024-TNZ001>004-019>021-048>055-088>092-010300-
/O.EXT.KMEG.HT.Y.0005.000000T0000Z-060803T0000Z/
RANDOLPH-CLAY-LAWRENCE-GREENE-CRAIGHEAD-POINSETT-MISSISSIPPI-
CROSS-CRITTENDEN-ST. FRANCIS-LEE(AR)-PHILLIPS-DUNKLIN-PEMISCOT-
DESOTO-MARSHALL-BENTON(MS)-TIPPAH-ALCORN-TISHOMINGO-TUNICA-TATE-
PRENTISS-COAHOMA-QUITMAN-PANOLA-LAFAYETTE-UNION-PONTOTOC-LEE(MS)-
ITAWAMBA-TALLAHATCHIE-YALOBUSHA-CALHOUN-CHICKASAW-MONROE-LAKE-
OBION-WEAKLEY-HENRY-DYER-GIBSON-CARROLL-LAUDERDALE-TIPTON-HAYWOOD-
CROCKETT-MADISON-CHESTER-HENDERSON-DECATUR-SHELBY-FAYETTE-
HARDEMAN-MCNAIRY-HARDIN-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...WALNUT RIDGE...PARAGOULD...JONESBORO...
HARRISBURG...BLYTHEVILLE...WYNNE...WEST MEMPHIS...FORREST CITY...
HELENA...KENNETT...CARUTHERSVILLE...SOUTHAVEN...OLIVE BRANCH...
CORINTH...IUKA...TUNICA...BOONEVILLE...CLARKSDALE...BATESVILLE...
OXFORD...NEW ALBANY...TUPELO...AMORY...ABERDEEN...UNION CITY...
MARTIN...DRESDEN...PARIS...DYERSBURG...HUMBOLDT...MILAN...
HUNTINGDON...COVINGTON...JACKSON...LEXINGTON...BARTLETT...
GERMANTOWN...COLLIERVILLE...MEMPHIS...MILLINGTON...SOMERVILLE...
BOLIVAR...SAVANNAH

312 PM CDT MON JUL 31 2006

...HEAT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT WEDNESDAY...

THE HEAT ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT WEDNESDAY.
HEAT INDEX READINGS WILL REMAIN AROUND 105 DEGREES ACROSS PARTS
OF THE MID-SOUTH THROUGH EARLY THIS EVENING.

AFTERNOON TEMPERATURES WILL ONCE AGAIN CLIMB INTO THE MIDDLE AND
UPPER 90S TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY ACROSS THE MID-SOUTH. THESE
TEMPERATURES WHEN COMBINED WITH THE HUMIDITY WILL PRODUCE HEAT
INDEX READINGS BETWEEN 103 AND 108 DEGREES. EXTREME CAUTION SHOULD
BE EXERCISED WHEN IN THIS HEAT.

A HEAT ADVISORY MEANS THAT A PERIOD OF HOT TEMPERATURES IS
EXPECTED. THE COMBINATION OF HOT TEMPERATURES AND HIGH HUMIDITY
WILL COMBINE TO CREATE A SITUATION IN WHICH HEAT ILLNESSES ARE
POSSIBLE. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS...STAY IN AN AIR-CONDITIONED
ROOM...STAY OUT OF THE SUN...AND CHECK UP ON RELATIVES AND
NEIGHBORS.

2006-07-25T07:50:00.000-07:00

So I did something this weekend I thought I would never, ever do...in Memphis...in July.

(wait for it.....wait for it......)

I turned the a/c off in my car.

It was a big moment. I will admit to being a little nervous. I mean, it was uncharted territory. What would it be like on the other side? Would my back stick to the seat, the way it did for most of my life driving automobiles with only an a.m. radio and a heater? Would passersby point and laugh? Would I cause a multi-car pileup as a result of the torrents of sweat pouring into my eyeballs and the slickery component of my damp palms on the steering wheel?

Annnnnnd no.

This past weekend was fantastic! The humidity was gone! The heat was gone! It made many of us feel like Fall was right around the corner (and let's be honest: at this stage in the game, we're not looking forward to the new shows in September, or the candy-fest that is Halloween: it's Fall we're after).

So what a nice gift, huh? A chance to sit outside, open up some windows, and luxuriate in the pleasantness of it all.

How Do!

2006-07-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

Well, I just had this conversation with Mearl and now I'm going to share it with you.

I don't think I've ever taken this much vacation time at once! But it does feel good to be back. Even though it is a kajillion degrees outside. (A 'kajillion' is a little used meteorological term that means 'really hot).

And now American Idol is coming to Memphis for auditions!!! It's gonna be a great Fall, folks.

WARNING!!!

2006-07-13T06:53:00.000-07:00

How Do, Friends.

Even though I'm on Mid-South Walkabout (vacation), I'm still concerned about your well-being. That's a 24/7 job. So I'm dropping a note for all of our FoxFriends who stop by here to visit.

At this point in time, it looks like the temps are about to hit a consistently dangerous level. From today through possibly the weekend, daytime highs are forecast to be around 95 degrees, with a heat index that feels like 101 to 105.

Peak heat hours are from roughly 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. (although it's still warm all day! overnight lows will only be around 76 degrees!). SO.....if you can, limit your time outdoors. Especially during those peak hours. And drink LOTS and LOTS of water.

Also, do what I do: choose clothes that are a bit baggy, and LIGHT COLORED. I always stay away from anything dark (t-shirts, shorts, or jeans) in these hot spells, because they SOAK UP THE SUN and HEAT YOU UP QUICK!

And watch the kids close.....DON'T EVER LEAVE ONE IN A CAR WHILE YOU RUN INTO A COOL AIR CONDITIONED STORE!!!!!!

Aight? Aight.

I'm On Vacation!

2006-07-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

That's right. Finally had to use some of these accumulated vacation days. To be honest, I really like my job, so it's like a bonus.

(Grandfatherly wisdom: "Find something you like to do; then figure out how to get paid to do it.")

So anyhow, I won't be on the air for a week or so. Gonna cut some grass....grill some meat...drink some iced beverages (like right now)....finally see Superman Returns....take some nature walks....listen to some laid back music (you know, get my funk on)......and just generally chill.

I'll still check in and keep you guys up to date (thanks for all the shout outs...keep readin').

And don't forget: Fox13 is getting a PHENOMENOL new website around August! I can't wait!

Peace.

It's Being Talked About....

2006-07-04T19:10:00.000-07:00

....making people pass an exam to handle fireworks.

Not a bad idea.

However, it would probably be a tough thing to pass, given the strength of 'red tape' and all.

So we decided to create a crash test dummy version. Fox13 style.

OFFICIAL FIREWORK BLOWER-UPPER EXAM

Multiple Choice

1) A sparkler is:
a- a type of firework
b- street lingo for a 'clean car'
c- more than one carat

2) Dynamite is:
a- an explosive
b- a cartoon insect with superpowers
c- what j.j. walker always said

3) An M-80 is:
a- a potent firecracker
b- a top secret british commando unit
c- one size larger than an M-79

4) A bottle rocket will go:
a- up
b- down
c- sideways
d- all of the above

5) Fireworks are sold:
a- in a tent
b- in a store
c- from the trunk of a buick
d- all of the above

6) Handling fireworks while intoxicated is:
a- dangerous
b- helpful
c- a family tradition
d- a great way to deaden the pain

Essay Questions

7) What does a fuse look like?

8) Once one is lit, should you run 'towards' the ordinance, or 'away' from it?

9) Is chasing someone with a lit Roman Candle funny?

10) What are the possible legal ramifications of a 'Bottle Rocket Fight'?

Dawson Bonus!

Treat fireworks with respect or:
a- learn how to salute left handed
b- invent a new handshake
c- never again order a table for 4

If you comfortably answered all question with a reasonable certainty of 'test passage', then we hereby bequeath upon you a "Firework Blower-Upper Learner's Permit".

Congratulations. We're all behind you. Way, way behind.

What the 4th is all about....

2006-07-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

....Truth.....Justice......and the American Way.

Have a most excellent holiday.

ProMax Awards

2006-06-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, maybe you've heard by now. But it's a big deal, and so I'm gonna say it again!

The Fox13 Promotional team, many of which are pictured here, won a HUGE award for this commercial!!!

This 60-second spot was part of our "No Hype Weather Campaign", and one of almost 16,000 entries for a ProMax Award (check it out right here for more info on the organization http://www.promax.tv/awards.asp)

The location of the awards ceremony? New York City.

The emcee? Saturday Night Live's Darrell Hammond.

The purpose? To award the promotional efforts of entertainment marketers, promoters and designers, representing more than 500 television stations and all major broadcast and cable networks from the U. S. as well as more than 3,000 individual members in 70 countries.

The outcome?

(wait for it......)

Your very own Fox13 was the ONLY local news station IN THE NATION to be in the TOP 50!

But wait, there's more.

Your very own Fox13 was the ONLY local news station IN THE TOP TEN!

(hold it....hold it...)

Your very own Fox13 was #3!!!!!!!

# 3, you ask? And you're proud of that?

Well, when you consider that #2 was the "Desperate Housewives" promo with all the apples, and that #1 was a NBC Olympics promo, piece, then, well, yeah. We're proud of that.

But we're really happy that we've been able to get our message across to our friends and neighbors across the Mid-South: that your Fox13 Weather Team will not hype your weather.

And we'd like to thank YOU, Mid-South! You've shown us that you believe by watching!!!! The ratings continue to show that Mid-South viewers are tuning into Fox13 News for their daily info in ever increasing numbers, and we're so glad to have you.

So, huge props to our Promotional Team, and to you, our friends and viewers.

A Hot Friday Night In Memphis

2006-06-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

...and when I say hot, I mean, like, 80+ degrees.

Having grown up right here in the river city, a hot and humid summer night always takes me back to my younger days.....you know the ones, when you've got way too much free time on your hands, not much cash, and the world is wide open?

Right off the top of my brain, I'm rememberin': working at the Seessel's in Raleigh (that's right baby! Rockin' Raleigh! Home of the Stage Stop!) and kickin' it in the parking lot until 2 a.m. with the stocking crew; nights at the Sigma Chi house (just a hundred yards from where I am right now! all those years that i lived in that beat down fraternity house, i had no idea that i'd work just down the street. and i'm very glad that the street can't talk) drinking iced down beverages after a long night of backyard basketball; walking the streets (in Raleigh, where else?) with my teenage posse, wishing we knew someone who was a) old enough to drive, and b) had a car.

I'm sure you've got your own fond memories....just step outside, ease yourself into nice pool of humidity, take your drink with you, and stroll down memory lane.

HOW TO BEAT THE HEAT!

2006-06-22T06:52:00.000-07:00

Thinking About Yourself

Avoid the Heat. Stay out of the heat and indoors as much as possible. Spend time in an air conditioned space. Only two hours a day in an air-conditioned space can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Shopping Malls offer relief if your home is not air-conditioned. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember, electric fans do not cool, they just blow hot air around.

Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight and helps maintain normal body temperature. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

Drink FOR the Heat. Drink plenty of water and natural juices, even if you don't feel thirsty. Even under moderately strenuous outdoor activity, the rate your body can absorb fluids is less than the rate it loses water due to perspiration. However, if you have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restrictive diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.

Do not drink IN the Heat. Avoid alcoholic beverages and beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and cola. Alcohol and caffeine constrict blood vessels near the skin reducing the amount of heat the body can release. Although beer and alcohol beverages appear to satisfy thirst, they actually cause further body dehydration.

Eat for the Heat. Eat small meals more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein because they increase metabolic heat. Avoid using salt tablets, unless directed to do so by a physician.
Living in the Heat. Slow down. Reduce, eliminate, or reschedule strenuous activities such as running, biking and lawn care work when it heats up. The best times for such activities are during early morning and late evening hours. Take cool baths or showers and use cool, wet towels.

Learn the symptoms of heat disorders and know how to give first aid.

Thinking About Others

Do not leave children in a closed vehicle, even for a few minutes. This is a "No-Brainer". Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140°F-190°F degrees within 30 minutes on a hot, sunny day. However, despite this common sense rule, deaths from heat occur almost every Summer when someone leaves their child in a closed vehicle. When outdoors, protect small children from the sun, their skin is sensitive.

Help your pets keep their cool. It will "feel" as hot for them as it will for you. As with children, do not leave your pets in a closed vehicle. Be sure your animals have access to shade and a water bowl full of cold, clean water. Dogs don't tolerate heat well because they don't sweat. Their bodies get hot and stay hot. During summer heat, avoid outdoor games or jogging with your pet. If you would not walk across hot, sunbaked asphalt barefoot, don't make your dog walk on it either. (Dogs can also get blisters on their paws from hot pavement.)
Learn the symptoms of heat disorders and know how to give first aid.

Thinking About Your Environment

Protect windows. Hang shades, draperies, awnings, or louvers on windows that receive morning or afternoon sun. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat entering the house by as much as 80%.

Conserve electricity. During periods of extreme heat, people tend to use a lot more power for air conditioning which can lead to a power shortage or outage. Vacuum air conditioner filters weekly during periods of high use.

Keep lights turned down or turned off.

Avoid using the oven.
Learn the symptoms of heat disorders and know how to give first aid.

courtesy of the National Weather Service, Forth Worth TX

...and since I seem to be on a photo binge...

2006-06-21T09:22:00.000-07:00

...here's an old polaroid I just found.

I decided at an early age to set forth my expectations for the world, and myself, as clearly seen in this 'behind the scenes' Sulipeck moment.

Why am I putting pictures of myself on here?

Becuase I don't have any of you.

It's Not Flattering...

2006-06-20T14:53:00.000-07:00

...but it's real.

I went out to hang with the Good Morning Memphis crew a few Friday's back. We had McDonald's breakfast sandwiches and coffee for everyone who stopped by.

And lotsa heat. Lotsa, lotsa heat.

Note that while I'm footloose and without a care in the world, Valerie Calhoun is hard at work with her script.

Ernie Freeman is just looking at the pictures, as he's never learned to read.

Heat Index Chart

2006-06-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how the 'heat index' is decided?

Here's your chart!

And here's the skinny:

Your comfort level plummets when it's both hot AND humid because the body can't function efficiently. When our body temperature reaches roughly 95 degress, the body begins to emit a salty fluid from our pores (sweat). That moisture normally evaporates (and in the evaporation process, heat is required, which our bodies normally supply, therefore REMOVING heat from our body and cooling us).

HOWEVER....when it's HUMID, the air surrounding our body is saturated with moisture. Therefore, the sweat doesn't evaporate as freely (as all of the surrounding moisture retards the process). And since the humidity slows down the evaporation process (or stops it completely), our bodies don't cool off properly and the end result is that we wish we lived someplace cooler.

Oh, AC.....you saved the Mid-South.

What Should I Do When It's A Code Orange?

2006-06-16T14:33:00.000-07:00

First of all: what causes it?

Pollution emissions, a stagnant atmosphere, clear skies, and high temperatures are the primary factors responsible for this afternoon’s poor air quality.

Experts say "it's like a sunburn for the lungs".

· Limit prolonged outdoor activities during afternoon hours
· High ozone levels can cause nose, eye, throat, and lung irritation
· High ozone levels can aggravate existing conditions and lead to increased potential for illness in this sensitive group
· Refuel cars and lawnmowers after 7:00 pm, avoid spills and do not “top off” tanks
· Carpool or mass transit
· Combine errands instead of many separate trips
· Drive less, especially during peak hours or hot days

Just stay inside, friends.

It's BackYard Weather Time!!!!

2006-06-14T19:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, friends and neighbors. Warm up your hedge-clippers and get your rakes lubed - it's BackYard Weather time!

We want to bring a live broadcast, cookout, and gifts to YOUR HOUSE!

All you have to do is snap a photo and either

1) mail it BYW! 485 S. Highland, Memphis TN 38111

or

2) e-mail it to weather@foxmemphis.com.

Send us your pertinent info (name, phone #, address) and we'll be choosing winners 'once a week' throughout the summer!

Leeeettttssss get it starteddd, in hereererererereeerer.......

(get your mowers runnin, runnin, and runnin, runnin, and runnin, runnin.....)

Check Out This Rare Photo!!!

2006-06-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

This shot courtesy of the Associated Press.

Rainbow that set the sky on fireFrom BARRY WIGMORE, Daily Mail 10:58am 8th June 2006

In a breathtaking blaze of glory, Nature puts on one of its most spectacular sky shows.
Reds, oranges, blues and greens create a flaming rainbow that stretches above the clouds.
But this circumhorizon arc, as it is known, owes more to ice than fire. It occurs when sunlight passes through ice crystals in high cirrus clouds. It is one of 15 types of ice halos formed only when the most specific of factors dovetail precisely together.

This blanket of fire, covering hundreds of square miles, is the rarest phenomenon of them all. It was spotted in the US on the Washington-Idaho border around midday last Saturday.

Dr Jonathan Fox, of the US National Weather Service in Spokane, Washington, said: 'It was even more spectacular than the Northern Lights. I feel lucky to have seen it because it only forms in very rare situations. This is the first one I've ever seen. It was a breathtaking sight and it hung around for about an hour.'

To create a rainbow of fire, clouds must be at least 20,000ft high and the ice crystals within them align horizontally instead of their usual vertical position. The sun also needs to be at least 58 degrees above the horizon. Then, the magic can begin.

Good Question.....

2006-06-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

...What are Goose Bumps?

Ever wondered? Fear not, dedicated-blog-reader. We deliver.

(From the hit book "Why Do Men Have Nipples? Hundreds of Questions You'd Only Ask a Doctor After Your Third Martini")

It's all about the "arrectores pilorum".

These tiny little hair erector muscles that contract and raise the hair follicles above the skin are the "goose bumps".

What causes them?

They start with a stimulus, such as fear or cold. This causes the sympathetic nervous system to become activated. This is the part of your body responsible for the "fight or flight" response. This sends a message to the skin and activates those little muscles, raising the skin and hair.

And there ya' are.

Hey! Nobody Move! One More Picture!

2006-05-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

I will admit, it was rather embarrassing when everyone in this photo demanded that I join them for a second picture (the first one can be seen just below this).

This photo, which was clearly not rushed through a hack job of Photoshop, shows just how close we all became after spending the day together.

Behind the Scenes.....

2006-05-30T07:25:00.000-07:00

...as American Idol visits Graceland!

I know, I know. That was weeks ago. But I just received this photo of the Fab 7 in the Music Room! (Keep in mind....when this photo was taken, they ALL thought they would be the next American Idol).

From right: Chris Daughtry, Lisa Marie, Taylor, Priscilla, Tommy Mottola, Katherine McPhee and Elliot Yamin.

Now, I may have published one of these before (the clear presence of "Joestradamus" subconsciously predicting that Mr. Taylor Hicks was going to become #1); all the other photos are new, some never before seen! Like the shot of me telling Elvis Presley Enterprises CEO Jack Soden "just how this interview was going to go!". (For our literal readers, that was a joke. Jack's a great sport!)

There's also Lisa Marie Presley giving all 4 Idol finalists a Graceland tour in the Club Car. I can promise you, the moment captured here on digital pic will be something those 4 tell their grandchildren about.

AND.....although it has not been formally announce, and therefore not a complete lock, I have been told by an inside American Idol/Fox source that ".....there is a 95% chance that American Idol will be coming to the FedExForum this summer....for auditions for next year's show"! And, hopefully, they will be stopping by Graceland again as well.

So, start warming up those vocal chords, picking out your coolest threads, and mentally preparing to sing accapella in front of some bright lights!!!

And good luck!

(A big thanks to Graceland for the pics! Check out more of that at www.elvis.com! )

It's been Awhile....

2006-05-29T14:30:00.000-07:00

....but I found it difficult to blog past the Idols. That was just too cool.

However, now that Taylor Hicks has been catapulted to stardom, it finally seems appropriate to move on. (By the way, if you're a Taylor Hicks fan....did you know he's already got a CD out? He wrote all the songs himself, and it's titled .... ironically enough ... "Under the Radar" ((which he no longer is)) ; it used to be available at www.taylorhicks.com, which - apparently due to millions of new hits - is currently offline but should return sooner or later)

So now we trudge into the summer months that comprise a sweat-drenched Memphis, bolting from air-conditioned structure to air-conditioned car to air-conditioned structure.

In an effort to bring more cool thoughts to your hot week, I thought I'd do a little reading from
"The Simpsons Library of Wisdom: The Homer Book". Homer Simpson is a modern day hero to many, with his simple ways and disregard for both his health and personal hygiene.

Today's selection is simply entitled:

Homer's Top 40

1 - donuts

2 - donut holes

3 - hot cheesy-crust pizza: the food of kings!

4 - "big ape week" on million dollar movie

5 - four beautiful words: "all u can eat"

6 - the lovely, g0lden hue of sweet, sweet beer

7 - the hallucinogenic burn of a really fine chili

8 - snuggling with marge

9 - beating the point spread

10 - beating the middle-aged spread

11 - my patented, space age, out-of-this-world moon waffles!

12 - sleeping

13 - napping

14 - snoozing

15 - lunch breaks with extra lunch in them

16 - the ovulicious flavor of feritility drugs

17 - "the homer"...the car i designed for myself

18 - bacon and it's savory by-product, bacon fat

19 - remembering maggie's name on the first try

20 - the sound of pudding

21 - the wild fury of grand funk railroad

22 - the bewitching variety of deli meats in a giant hoagie

23 - can't-fail get-rich-quick-schemes

24 - the gentle hypnotic swing of a hammock

25 - television: teacher, mother, secret lover

26 - the sweet sound of lisa's saxophone stopping

27 - the finest twelve and a half minutes of the day: happy hour at moe's!

28 - the cold side of the pillow

29 - the extra notches in my belt

30 - any candy bar with the word "rageous" on the label

31 - the eerie experience just before passing out

32 - the warmth and comfort of fresh underpants

33 - the crumbs at the bottom of the toaster

34 - loving the family you're stuck with

35 - greasy joe's bottomless bar-b-q pit

36 - greasy joe

37 - those little dinky birds that bob up and down

38 - free mayonnaise packets at fast food restaurants

39 - the dank, musty beauty that is the bowling alley

40 - my top-of-the-line deluxe gas grill (the one that says "ned flanders" on it)

Idols! Idols! Idols!

2006-05-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hey friends -

after you check out our behind-the-scense photos below of American Idol's visit to Graceland, you can get even more photos and info from Graceland themselves!!!

Check it out by visiting:

www.elvis.com

American Idol: Graceland

2006-05-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

It all began when Mr. Ryan Seacrest said to an American Idol viewership of millions: "....a jet is waiting right now to whisk these folks to Graceland....".

People immediately began to congregate outside of the most famous gates in the world. And on Saturday, they were rewarded as the first limo's began to arrive: this one carrying the First Lady, Priscilla Presley.

She caused quite a scene when, unexpectedly, she dashed from the protection of her limo and strode into the crowd (the outside of which you see here) to speak with a young lady in a wheelchair who had travelled from Britain.

And thus began the Idol's day at Graceland.

Behind the Scenes.....

2006-05-07T07:23:00.000-07:00

Once the Idols exited the historic 'Music Room' at Graceland (where this week's Idol was filmed, as each Idol visited with legendary music producer Tommy Mottola), they each did their seperate 'exit interviews', where they talked about their session with Tommy and how they felt it went. Then, to my amazement, each of them went WAY ABOVE AND BEYOND to meet, greet, and spend time with each fan their! And the fans were thrilled.

The normally stoic, reverent grounds of Graceland, where fans walk with headphones on in relative silence (listening to the history of the home, and soaking up the ambience) was transformed into a concert-like atmosphere that left even the veteran Graceland officials shaking their heads in amazement.

The interest from the Graceland fans.....who, might I remind you, were from ALL OVER THE WORLD....never waned! They all wanted to touch, talk to, or be photographed with an Idol! (And I took great amusement in the fact that I will now be a background fixture in thousands of photographs that will soon return to homes all across the globe! Part of my head, the back of my shirt, my arm.....I'm partially famous!!!)

The cries of "Taylor!! Give us a 'whooooo'!!!" Or, "Katherine, which Elvis song are you going to sing?", soon became so normal that it was surreal. And again, through it all, the Idols rose to the challenge with genuine smiles and enthusiasm....showing they completely appreciated the fact that they have all come from out of nowhere, and are being courted by a nation.

YOU CAN HEAR MUSICAL ADVICE FROM TOMMY MOTTOLA, WHICH MUSICIANS THE WORLD OVER WOULD PAY A LOT OF MONEY FOR! (Including: what does the winner need to do to actually become a musical success and not a footnote?)

BUT THE ONLY PLACE YOU'RE GOING TO SEE IT?

FOX13 NEWS AT NINE, ON TUESDAY NIGHT....FOLLOWING AMERICAN IDOL: GRACELAND!

American Idol Loves FOX13 Memphis!!!!!

2006-05-07T07:01:00.000-07:00

There were two enormous tour buses parked in back of Graceland. One was for the Idols, the other (I believe) for Priscilla and Lisa Marie....just a place to take a break from the hectic pace and relax.

Katharine and Elliott, after hours of work and fans, were kind enough to prove their love for FOX13 by shooting some promos for us (and for Graceland's Elvis Insider's....check that out too!). We put them on the steps of the bus, and had some fun figuring it out!

Great sports. And no attitude. These guys were fantastic to work with.

The Final Four

2006-05-07T06:35:00.000-07:00

Each Idol was gracious enough to deal with the rants and pleads of the goofball with the microphone (me) and pose for a photo. Note ACTUAL SMILES on these people! That was after they had already taken about 500 shots with other people! (Also note that Taylor was trying to ALSO give the #1 sign....still not sure what prompted me to do that....I'm guessing his energy was contagious...anyway, seconds AFTER this picture was taken, we were both '#1-ing it'....so no, he's not dancing during the photo).

Good luck to the Idols!

And if you liked ANY of this, I've got TONS OF VIDEO of the Idols hanging out (and more) at Graceland!!!! The only place you're gonna see it? FOX13 news at 9:00 p.m., this Tuesday night....right after American Idol: Graceland!!!

Don't miss it!

Have Ya' Heard the News.....

2006-05-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

.....Fox13 is gettin' a smokin' new website!!!

That's right, web friends. We can all admit it...the Fox13 website needs some serious attention, loving care, and major-league overhaul.

And the good doctor is about to fill the prescription.

Coming this summer, you'll see an exciting website, chock-full of UP TO THE SECOND breaking news...in-depth articles...informative links galore...and of course, all the weather you need!!!!

Get ready, Memphis!!! This is gonna be fun!

Musically Speaking

2006-05-01T19:47:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time of year again. May.

That means Memphis in May activities to satisfy most any palate. The Beale Street Music Festival is a gargantuan event. Every year, thousands and thousands of fans make the trek from all over the world to hear the dozens of bands over three days on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi (http://www.memphisinmay.org/).

Which got me to thinkin' today about the music I love.

I will admit to liking a variety. Classical, yes. Jazz, absolutely. And loads of alt rock.

But I find myself turning into a true music-monger whenver I hear music from my college years.

You see, back in the day (Okay! Wait right there! Since I used the phrase, I must expound. The phrase "back in the day" is used here tongue-in-cheek; to be honest, I don't think that anyone under the age of 50 should ever use this phrase with any degree of seriousness; pre-50, and we're still in the day....now back to my diatribe) I was a fiend for Guns'N'Roses, and The Cult.

That's right, sweet soul sister. GNR and the Cult. Saw 'em both live (at the Pyramid, and the Mid-South Coliseum, not that you care. Two defunct bands, two defunct venues. Didn't realize that until I just typed it. How old AM I?)

So anyway....since I've had some great comments from readers all over the country....if you don't know much about Memphis , check out that link above. You can almost hear the 'q cookin'!

What Makes Lightning Flicker?

2006-04-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Multiple strokes make lightning flicker

In many cases, lightning seems to flicker. After the initial return stroke, several flashes can occur along the same path. A new dart leader—dimly lit because it's comprised of such little charge—will travel quickly downward through the previously made path toward the Earth. When it reaches the ground, another return stoke occurs. This may happen several times in a second or two. Between return strokes the lightning path is dark, which makes the lightning appear to flicker. The slower this process happens the more noticeable the flicker will appear.

By Chris Cappella, USATODAY.com

If you don't like the weather....

2006-04-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

....just ask China to change it.

Check it out.

China Using Artificial Rain to Clear Dust
Apr 18 3:17 PM US/Eastern Email this story

By JOE McDONALDAssociated Press Writer
BEIJING

Beijing will use artificial rainmaking to clear the air after a choking dust storm coated China's capital and beyond with yellow grit, prompting a health warning to keep children indoors, state media said Tuesday.

The huge storm blew dust far beyond China's borders, blanketing South Korea and reaching Tokyo.

The storm, reportedly the worst in at least five years, hit Beijing overnight Sunday, turning the sky yellow and forcing residents to dust off and hose down cars and buildings.

Hospitals reported a jump in cases of breathing problems, state television said.

The government was preparing to seed clouds to make rain to clear the air, state TV said, citing the Central Meteorological Bureau. It did not elaborate, and the bureau refused to release more information.

Storms carrying chalky dust from the north China plain hit Beijing every spring, but newspapers said this week's was the heaviest since at least 2001. The Beijing Daily Messenger said 300,000 tons of sand and dust were dumped on the city Monday.

That was "definitely one of the most serious pollution days in Beijing," weather forecaster Yang Keming said, according to the China Daily newspaper. "Small children had better stay at home during such days."

The dust reached Tokyo on Tuesday, the first time that has happened in six years, said Naoko Takashina of Japan's Meteorological Agency. Dust from China was found in more than 50 locations throughout the country, she said.

The Japanese agency warned of reduced visibility but did not say any health dangers were expected.

In South Korea, a light layer of dust blanketed the country, but no ill effects were reported. Rain was forecast overnight Tuesday, and the weather bureau said it should clear the air.

The dust storms are expected to last through at least Wednesday in Beijing, neighboring Tianjin and a swath of north China stretching from Jilin province in the northeast through Inner Mongolia to Xinjiang in the desert northwest, the China Daily and other media said.

That region is home to hundreds of millions of people.

More storms were expected later in the week in Xinjiang and other parts of the northwest, according to news reports.

China's government has been replanting "green belts" of trees throughout the north in an effort to trap the dust after decades when the storms worsened amid heavy tree-cutting.

Last week, the western Xinjiang region was hit by its worst sandstorm in decades, which killed one person and left thousands stranded after sand covered railways and high winds smashed train and car windows.
___
Associated Press reporters Chisaki Watanabe in Tokyo and Bo-mi Lim in Seoul, South Korea, contributed to this report.

Boy Howdy!

2006-04-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

Wotta day. Great weather, sweet blue skies, everything a'bloomin'. Gonna have to get my camp (out) on very soon.

In a good mood. Hopin' you are too.

Concord Academy

2006-04-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

The Weather Bus took advantage of a SPECTACULAR mid-south day to grab some snacks, ice down some sodas, and drive out to Concord Academy in Memphis.

We kept my boring talk short and let our friends at Concord ask whatever questions were on their minds....and man, they were good ones! Some of their questions were answered by their classmates! Smart group!

A huge thanks for the cool Lion's t-shirt (designed by a student, no less!) and the generous hospitality.

Your Amazing Phtots!

2006-04-03T15:29:00.000-07:00

Fox13 viewers wield a mean and mighty camera! (And camere phone!)

Many, many thanks for all of the phenomenal photos that you took, then took the time to send to us.

(But let me remind you: PLEASE don't ever place yourself in harm's way in an attemmpt to take a weather picture!)

These photos come from Mike Bodary of Memphis (the tri-pronged lightning); Casey Thigpen of Millington (the grape-cluster clouds); Audra and Darnell Elliott (the enormous hail); and Melanie Turner Giford of Horn Lake (lightning, bottom right).

Thanks for watching...thanks for shooting...and thanks for sending!

Remember:

Don't be Scared....Be prepared!

Why oh Why oh Why?

2006-03-29T18:43:00.000-08:00

(from the hit medical book "Why Do Men Have Nipples?" by Mark Leyner and Billy Goldber, M.D.)

Why do your teeth chatter when you are cold?

The body usually maintains a constant temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature the cells of the body work best. If there is any significant change in temperature, it is sensed by an area of the brain called the hypothalamus. When the body gets too cold, this center alerts the rest of the body to begin warming up. Shivering, the rapid movement of the muscles to generate heat, then begins. Teeth chattering represents localized shivering.

Did You Know.....

2006-03-28T08:47:00.000-08:00

....to name the gathering place of Hell's demons in his epic poem Paradise Lost, John Milton coined the word "Pandaemonium" by combining the Greek prefix pan-, meaning "all", with the Late Latin daemonium, which means "evil spirit" and which in turn comes from the Greek daimon, meaning "spirit".

Over time "Pandaemonium" (or "Pandemonium") came to designate all of Hell and, because such nether regions are often considered noisy and disorderly, eventually took on the extended sense of "wild uproar or commotion".

Now you're in the know.

Things That Make You Go "Huh?"

2006-03-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

Q: If you place a lighted candle in a sealed jar and drop it, why does the candle go out as soon as someone catches the dropped jar? (Karen, Brainerd, Maine)

A burning candle.

Within the bluer, hotter region near the base of the wick, hydrogen separates from the wax vapor, burns and forms water vapor. Within the brighter, yellower part of the flame, carbon soot oxidizes, and forms carbon dioxide.

Courtesy of Wikipedia

A: First, a word about how a candle burns. A candle is a cylinder of solid fuel — paraffin wax — that surrounds a wick. Bringing a lit match to a wick melts and then vaporizes the wax coating the wick. The wax vapor combines with oxygen, and burns.

Second, a caveat: Candles burn nicely, and can catch other things on fire. Keep a bucket of water or, better still, a fire extinguisher handy if you experiment.

Now, to answer your question: The flame goes out when we catch the falling jar for the same reason as it goes out when we blow on a candle — the temperature of the candle-wax vapor drops below the vapor's combustion temperature. The vapor becomes too cool to burn.
As the jar and candle free fall, the effects of gravity disappear. So, the candle, the flame and the hot gases surrounding the flame all fall together as a unit. When someone catches the jar, however, the cooler mass of air high in the jar continues to descend and replaces the hotter air below (which then buoys up). The descending cooler air "blows out" the candle.

A quart-size peanut butter jar and a burning birthday candle.

That's the answer that occurred to me as I mulled over your question in bed at 3 a.m. one night. But is it right? Like a good scientist, I needed to run an experiment to see if my theory fits the observable facts.

The next Saturday a conscript and I got together to determine the facts. Soon, I was scooping peanut butter out of a quart-size jar while my assistant sawed the ends off of a clothes pin. We fitted the trimmed clothes pin into the peanut-butter jar lid, and stuck it in place with double-sided tape. We clamped a birthday-cake candle to the jar lid with the clothes pin, lit the candle, and screwed the lid onto the jar.

The first question was — can we duplicate the reader's scenario? I dropped the jar with the burning candle; the assistant caught it. The flame stayed lit all the way down, but went out when caught. Good — we observed the phenomenon.

What can put out a burning candle? If it doesn't have enough air or fuel, or it gets too cool to burn.

So next, we made sure that the candle had plenty of air during its fall. Timing it, as it burned stationary in the closed jar, we determined the candle took more than 15 seconds to go out through lack of oxygen. Dropping it and catching it took only 5 seconds. So we knew the candle had sufficient air.

It had plenty of fuel. The candle was almost whole.

But — maybe the hot wax splashed on the wick when we caught the jar, and put out the flame. To test this, we placed a kitchen match in the jar instead of the candle, lit the match, screwed on the lid and dropped the jar. The flame stayed burning on the way down, and went out when caught. Since the match had no wax to splash onto the wick, that cinched it:
When we caught the falling jar and the candle went out, the descending cooler air mass blew out the candle. We concluded that my idea in the middle of the night was correct.

(courtesy USA Today)

Great Idea for a DisneyWorld Ride.....

2006-03-23T17:41:00.000-08:00

Missouri teen survives ride in tornado
By KEVIN MURPHY

Kansas City Star

FORDLAND, Mo. — Matt Suter can’t get the tornado out of his head — or his ears.
Every time a late-night freight train thunders past, Suter wakes up and remembers the vicious twister that pulled him from his home March 12 and landed him in a pasture — a quarter-mile away.
Suter’s harrowing encounter has brought him sudden fame, with national media exposure. One tornado expert said he knew of no one who traveled as far as Suter did in a tornado and lived to tell about it.
“It’s a pretty awkward record to have,” the 19-year-old senior at Fordland High School said.
The soft-spoken Suter did not court attention about his experience, which was not reported publicly until a week after it happened.
On the night of the tornado, Suter said, he was watching television news in only his boxer shorts when he heard a jetlike roar approaching the trailer he shared with his grandmother and uncle.
He was trying to shut a window in the living room, and his grandmother was in the kitchen, when the tornado struck, he said.
“The window busted, and the door got sucked out,” Suter said. “I looked at my grandmother, and the walls were like Jell-O. The trailer was rocking back and forth. I jumped between the coffee table and couch, and I remember the trailer tipping.”
His grandmother, Linda Kelley, said Suter had hollered at her in the trailer, and when she came into the kitchen “I turned around to look at where he was, and that whole end of the trailer was just gone.”
A large heavy glass lamp struck Suter on the top of his head, knocking him unconscious, he said.
When he came to, Suter found himself in a soft, grassy pasture. Last week a global positioning satellite device used by National Weather Service meteorologist Dave Gaede measured the distance at 1,307 feet from the trailer site.
“When I woke up in the field, I didn’t know how long I was lying there,” Suter said. He looked toward the home and saw no lights and assumed his grandmother and uncle, Robert Dewhirst, died or were badly hurt in the destruction.
Suter ran in bare feet along a gravel road to the residence of neighbor Don Cornelison and reported what happened.
“He said the storm blew him way out into the field, and he didn’t know if his grandma or uncle were alive,” Cornelison said. “His feet were all cut up. I don’t know how me made it this far.”
Cornelison called 911, and ambulances went to the destroyed residence, where Kelley and Dewhirst lay injured.
Suter suffered a cut on his head that required five staples. His feet were badly bruised from running on the gravel, and he still limps from the pain.
Ron Buening, Suter’s physician, said his lack of serious injuries beyond the head wound corroborated Suter’s account.
“If he’d have been blown across that field, there would have been more body surface areas abraded and contused than what he had,” Buening said. “He was the most lucky man on Earth.”
Kelley ended up wedged between a table and kitchen cabinets, and Dewhirst was pinned between two mattresses. They are recovering at a relative’s home from various injuries.
Suter said he remembered nothing about his flight over the pasture. He landed about 25 feet from a gravel road and a barbed-wire fence. A piece of paper from the trailer lay next to him.
Suter has no idea how he survived.
“The way it tore the walls and roof out of the trailer, I’m sure it sucked me up into the wind,” Suter said. “I’m really glad I was unconscious.”
Tom Grazulis, a Vermont meteorologist who studies tornado behavior, said he knew of no person who traveled as far as Suter and survived.
“It was remarkable. It’s just so rare to have someone carried that distance,” said Grazulis, who oversees a research entity called the Tornado Project and is author of a 2001 book, The Tornado: Nature’s Ultimate Windstorm.
Grazulis said 300 to 400 feet was about the limit in order to survive a tornado-toss. One 9-year-old girl and her pony survived a 1,000-foot flight in 1955, but this was the longest previously known distance, he said.
“People who get tossed a quarter of a mile get killed in the air or in the fall or were dead when they were lifted up,” Grazulis said.
To live through his ordeal, Suter must have been lifted straight up and managed to avoid being struck by whatever debris went up with him at the same time, Grazulis said. He sort of “went with the flow” in an unconscious state, he said.
The first story of Suter’s experience appeared Sunday in the Springfield News-Leader, which asked Gaede to do the measurement. The story was picked up by The Associated Press, and on Tuesday, ABC’s “Good Morning America” did a feature on Suter’s flight.
Suter said he received media calls from England and was contacted by the David Letterman show about a possible appearance in New York.
“I had more calls in five minutes yesterday than I’ve had in my whole life,” Suter said.
Ironically, Suter said, he had been telling his girlfriend Sunday evening that he always wanted to see a tornado.
“I guess I was lucky that night,” Suter said.

Hello CrossWind Eagles!

2006-03-22T18:18:00.000-08:00

The weather bus utilized the sunshine today to pop the top and cruise out to Collierville!

We landed at CrossWind Elementary, and took our shoes off with Mrs. Michelle Sutton's class!

We talked weather, had a TON of MOST EXCELLENT questions, and then I got to read "Wodney the Wat" (which was also most excellent; I recommend it).

My time there flew. Thanks to Mrs. Sutton, and the entire CrossWind crew.

I've Done It!!!!

2006-03-14T18:25:00.000-08:00

Allright. I've done it. I've created, for a certain situation, the perfect term.

However, before I reveal it, I must explain.

Those of you who watch American Idol....and at last count that was somewhere well over 30 million people...there is a contestant who is....ahhhhh.....a bit diminutive.

His name is Kevin Covais. This youngster is 16, from Levittown, New York, and looks amazingly like Chicken Little. I love all these things about him. I mean, I genuinely like him.

He's got a special air about him....one of innocence....naivete.....sweetness.....and loads and loads of my new term:

"Uber-Goober."

I would also accept "Uber-Guber", or "UberGuber".

You get the idea.

As this catch-all-phrase ignites the literary world, I expect total props and recognition as the inventor.

Sorry, Kevin. You seem like a nice guy. You were simply the catalyst.

go tigers go tigers go tigers go tigers go tigers

2006-03-13T19:22:00.000-08:00

That's right, baby!

#1 seed!

I was lucky enough to get a ticket to the championship game at the FedExForum on Saturday morning, and got to see a great game. C-USA champs!

Now, to finish strong.

Tonight, Coach Cal was right here in our studio taping a segment for "The Best D#$! Sports Show Period!", and it was interesting. Not only are they interested in the Tigers, but today Temple head coach John Chaney retired.

(For those of you who don't remember, there's a bit of infamous video from yesteryear when then U-Mass coach John Calipari was conducting a post-game interview......when his opponent, Temple coach John Chaney, rushed the podium, threatening to attack Cal, and had to be restrained. All on camera. And so, we'll be seeing that vid ad nauseum for the next few days as everyone talks about Chaney's career).

Cal said that Chaney actually called him today to tell him. That they're still good friends, and that the future hall-of-fame coach should now just enjoy his life.

So anyway....Cal's sitting at our news desk doing his interview by satellite. All I could hear was his side of things....but Cal's a funny dude.

Apparently, ex-NBA player John Salley called for the Tigers to lose early (to be honest, I couldn't hear who said it)...so John Cal says, "Salley said that? Salley picked the German's to win World War Two!"

(more) "....and the lucky thing is, guys, that people don't vote on the winner of the tournament. We have to play for it. So we'll just go out and play".

Then we caught up with Cal in the hallway afterwards, and we asked him what he thought about the complete lack of respect. And he said, with twinkle in eye, "That's just what I needed. Just what I needed."

I think we can expect the Tigers practice to be chock-full of "....and they still don't respect you!"'s.

That's more to fight for.

Go tigers.

Great Weather....

2006-03-08T19:14:00.000-08:00

...epsecially if you're a weather nut. Strong breezes. Warm. Thick clouds. All harbingers of severity.

And we're looking to see it tomorrow (Thursday). Possible 1.5" to 2" sized hail; winds could reach up to 70 mph; and some areas could see intensely heavy rainfall.

As always, keep it on Fox 13 for all of the very latest information!

And today, I had the opportunity to visit some sweet kids at First Baptist Church. They're the Terrific Turtles (4 & 5's), Lukcy Ducks (3's), and the Frogs (also 3's), all part of the Children'd Weekly Education program.

They asked me how I climbed out of the tv set to come see them. And how was I going to climb back in? All good questions.

It's Just An Idea....

2006-02-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

...and in case you didn't hear me suggest it last week, I'll restate in the hope that some enterprising young Mid-Southerner will get behind this concept and make it a reality. I'd suggest a petition.

Everyone's heard of "Yo Memphis', right? It's gained national exposure with the success of Mempnian Gedeon McKinney on American Idol.

So my idea is this:

We rename (with much fanfare) "Yo Memphis" to "Yo Memphis....Use Your Blinker!".

This way, every time the organization is referenced on the news, or in the paper, it will be a reminder to our neighbors who refuse to touch the appendage on their steering wheel known as a blinker.

ANCHOR: "In other news, local organization Yo Memphis....Use Your Blinker was awarded additional funding by the state..."

See?

And more Jack Bauer-isms for our "24" fans:

Jack Bauer's favorite color is severe terror alert red. His second favorite color is violet, but just because it sounds like violent.

When Jack Bauer was a child, he made his mother finish his vegetables.

When President Palmer quit to start doing Allstate commercials, it took him 43 takes before he could stop saying, "You're in good hands with Jack Bauer".

Hey 24 fans......More Jack Bauer!!!!

2006-02-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

Killing Jack Bauer doesn't make him dead. It just makes him angry.

During the commercials, Jack Bauer calls the CSI detectives and solves their crimes.

Lets get one thing straight, the only reason you are conscious right now is because Jack Bauer does not feel like carrying you.

2006-02-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

A while back, I went to DisneyWorld. Out front were dozens of 5-ft tall Mickey's, all painted amazing ways.

This one was atmospheric. Very, very cool.

Hey 24 Fans!

2006-02-13T15:32:00.000-08:00

I just got turned onto a great "Jack Bauer" website. It's SO good, that I'm going to reveal a bit at a time to you.

If you're a 24 or Jack Bauer fan, then you'll dig it:

If everyone on "24" followed Jack Bauer's instructions, it would be called "12".

Upon hearing that he was played by Kiefer Sutherland, Jack Bauer killed Sutherland. Jack Bauer gets played by no man.

Superman wears Jack Bauer pajamas.

Joey's Great Winter Weather Idea

2006-02-10T19:38:00.000-08:00

While attending Memphis State University (okay, okay...now it's the U of M), I spent many years bartending and bouncing at different establishments along world famous Beale Street.

One of those establishments was Rum Boogie Cafe.

As you can imagine, the music that played day after day, hour after hour, was the sound of the blues. Some delta rock, but primarily blues.

The result of being inundated with the same songs, over and over, day after day, left me with the decision that if I had to hear 'Mustang Sally' one more time, I was going to hurt myself.

HOWEVER, one of the jewels that I uncovered was a Stevie Ray Vaughn song.

Which brings me to my great winter weather idea (or, what you should do anytime you want to sit down for a relaxing moment, with the lights dimmed, and the refreshing beverage of your choice at hand).

Here's the deal:

Buy/Borrow or Burn track #4 from "The Sky is Crying": Little Wing.

Stevie covers the song made famous by one James "Purple Haze" Hendrix. And I must tell you, my friends, it's transcendental. This guy does things with his guitar on this 6 minute 45 second musical gem that will leave you slackjawed.

Turn it up, tune it in, and chill it out.

Snow Photos From You!!!

2006-02-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

Guys! I got some fantastic snow photos from many (I mean many!) of you....very talented viewers out there.

I've been spending a great deal of time trying to download those to our weatherblog, but they seem to be too big (If a photo is large, it has trouble downloading onto the blog site).

I'm going to continue trying....the world needs to see these photos!

This Is Huge News, People!!!!!

2006-02-07T10:24:00.000-08:00

What if you stumbled upon a virtual Garden of Eden? And when you got there you saw a creature like this?

This bird has NEVER BEEN SEEN BY A HUMAN BEFORE!!!!!

An international team of scientists just discovered him, and many others in a fog-enshrouded lost world on a remote mountaintop.

Check it out by clicking on this news link below:

News

Never Before Seen Photos!

2006-02-04T06:59:00.000-08:00

(I'm adding pics as time goes by....so all of these won't be in perfect chronological order. I know, it's confusing. Just enjoy the pictoral tour as we take you backstage at Fox 13).

As we went through rehearsals, creative minds (such as News Director Ken Jobe, seen here in the maroon shirt) checked out every angle.

Meanwhile, hippy chick Maria Black kicked it in the new Weather Center.

And the multi-talented Ed Echols (who is fluent in several languages) tries out the new jumbo-tron.

2006-02-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

Okay! I teased it, talked about it, you waited, and it's finally here!

Our new set.

I gotta tell you, this type of thing happens far and few between (simply think about all your Memphis tv stations, and their look; now, when was the last time that it changed? sometimes pieces are updated - as that's far more cost-efficient - but rarely is their an entire "make over".)

So we're thrilled to update our image, something that we believe meshes with our most excellent news product. A new logo, new set, and freshly-delivered energy.

I had to sit on a lot of these pics until the official un-veiling (which has now occurred), so wanted to share a few stills with you all.

Over the next few days, I'll be adding more (as it's a time consuming process), but think you'll enjoy the picture-tour.

Okay! Thanks for sticking with me!

And more pics....

2006-02-03T10:43:00.000-08:00

There's the new multi-functional weather center, our enormous tv screen fronted by the Tealy Deveraux, and our anchors captured while on-air. (That cool strip on the front of the desk...where it says Fox 13 - WHBQ....can slowly change to every color in the spectrum, or be set to any one particular color! One of my favorite things. Next to the plasma tree.....and the enormous tv.....and so on.....and so on.....

More shots.....

2006-02-03T10:37:00.000-08:00

Here's cub reporter Jimmy Olsen....er....I mean, ace correspondent Jason Carter.

Jason easily owns the second best hair in the city, so we were quite surprised here at the foxblog to see that he'd covered it up. However, he's still easily identifiable by his professional and expertly inked "Press" credential (produced by the fine folks at Tealy Devereaux Inc.)

And Finally......

2006-02-03T10:15:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for showtime!

We're In The New Set, Baby!

2006-01-30T19:38:00.000-08:00

Man, is this thing sweet.

If you haven't seen it yet, turn on Fox 13, man!~

2006-01-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

In science, to be able to say that something is a fact, you have to be able to prove it in an experiment. And other people have to be able to copy your experiment and come up with the same result. (No experiment, no agreement, no fact.)

So everybody needs to be using the same kinds of tools and needs to be measuring things the same way. However, before the 1600's, there were no tools or instruments to measure weather's basic qualities: air temperature, pressure, humidity, moisture, etc.

That's where this guy comes in.

Galileo Galilei, the great Italian mathematician and philosopher, is given credit for inventing the THERMOMETER!

In 1593, Galileo kept in his library a glass bulb about the size of a chicken egg with a clear thin tube sticking out of it so that he and his friends could watch the liquid inside the tube rise and fall as the temperature changed. The volume of the liquid would expand as it warmed up, and (he figured) it would shrink back when it cools.

Now, Galileo had lots of irons in the fire (inventing the telescope, studying sunspots, teaching, the Inquisition), so some other scientists ran with it and eventually perfected it.

But huge props to double G.

Behind the Scenes

2006-01-25T18:31:00.000-08:00

Thought you'd like to see a behind the scene shot from the studio!

This commercial has generated more comments and praise for our promotions department than maybe anything I've ever been a part of. If you see it again, note the fact that there are never any breaks in the shot....in other words, we did the whole thing straight through for one solid minute! (normally, a commercial is a series of small shots that are later edited together; but not this one!). We totally destroyed the studio with water, wind and leaves. But it was worth it.

This pic sums it all up.

Bout Time

2006-01-25T18:16:00.000-08:00

Allright. I know, I know.

It's been far toooo long since I blogged. But I gotta tell ya, every time that I was going to try and put something on here, it didn't seem good enough to displace the Trading Spaces pics! (the revelation of which now puts an immense amount of pressure on THIS particular entry, as you now know that I was striving to raise the bar. prepare to be disappointed)

So enough time has passed that now we'll move on. For instance, unless you've been living under a rock, we're getting a major renovation: a new set!

And not just a new set, but a whole new look! It periodically happens (unless you choose to hold onto an aging theme...a choice for bigger minds than mine), and is a natural occurrence. Much like when lightning strikes a forest and the ensuing fire clears out the brush and annoying growth, making way for the trees to grow taller and bigger. Yeah, alot like that.

We're in the last few days until the unveiling, and everyone is extremely excited! We've been polishing the chrome, straightening up the plasma and making sure the fireworks are properly placed.

Now, I did receive some great ideas via e-mail: that we show the progress here on the Fox blog. I took that idea to the decision makers here. And the decision was to hold off on that, since we want maximum impact from the first viewing (which, in a major revelation, just might happen this weekend in what's being internally called a 'soft open'; if not, the target date is this monday the 30th).

Our weather team is currently working from a hallway (which doesn't really matter, since as long as all of our computers are working then we're in business) and we're all excited to try out the new digs.

I'll tell you this:

It's gonna be sweet.

Trading Spaces Comes to Memphis!

2006-01-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

That's right, baby! Trading Spaces, right here, in the home of ribs, rock'n'roll, and sequined sideburns!

And yes, that's me in the white jumpsuit. I'm doing a lil'E thang with the crew for their upcoming show filmed in Collierville (and yes, I'll be letting you know when it's going to air - as soon as I know.)

Let me say that this highly successful and enjoyable show proved true to life as every person on the crew was over-the-top nice. Don't you ever wonder about that? Is so-and-so really nice in person? What are they really like? This much I can tell you: what you see is what you get. They're just as personable and likeable in the flesh as they seem to be on your set. Absolutely zero attitude, very real, and more than happy to let us snap a few pics (as you're about to see). And the crew (sound, videographers, grips, producers, carpenters, EVERYBODY) was as polite, fun and pleasant as you could hope for. This show deserves to be a success, and I hope you'll support it.

More Trading Spaces...

2006-01-11T10:08:00.000-08:00

These guys were great! Here I am with both homeowners (one team is on the top, the other on the bottom) in Collierville. From TLC (in the pic on the bottom) is producer Kevin Maraza (with the beard and grey t-shirt), and designer (Elvis' favorite, by the way) Frank Bielec.

In the top pic (from the far right of the picture) is superstar carpenter Amy Wynn (who is wearing a friggin' sweet Viva Elvis t-shirt); TLC producer Phil Noble, and the 'Southern Belle' of Trading Spaces, Laurie Hickson-Smith.

Amy and Laurie were very, very sweet and a pleasure to meet.

2006-01-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

This was part of the hard-working crew. I've got to give them total props: they had the Memphis/Delta soul music blarin' under that tent (in what seemed to be perfect harmony with the saws and drills). Very nice guys.

You Knew It Was Comin'....

2006-01-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

....me using a Christmas gift in the blog.

It's the fabulous Word of the Day calendar! WooHoo!

(I'll catch you up):

roister - v; to engage in noisy revelry; carouse
Our next door neighbors roistered until the wee hours of the morning, so we can barely keep our eyes open today!

scurrilous - adj; using or given to coarse language; being vulgar or evil; containing obscenities, abuse or slander
The man in the seat next to me kept making scurrilous remarks about the flight attendants.

The rest were obnoxious. Trust me.

WAYS TO HELP PREVENT A COLD:

2006-01-05T19:48:00.000-08:00

Avoid close contact with people who have a cold, especially during the first few days when they are most likely to spread the infection.

Wash your hands after touching someone who has a cold, after touching an object they have touched, and after blowing your own nose. If your child has a cold, wash his or her toys after play.

Keep your fingers away from your nose and your eyes to avoid infecting yourself with cold virus particles that you may have picked up.

Put up a second hand towel in the bathroom for healthy people to use.

Keep an eye on the humidity of your environment so that your sinuses do not dry out.

Do not inflict your cold on others! Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue away and wash your hands. Also, stay away from people who are most vulnerable, including anyone who has asthma or another chronic lung disease, or at least try to limit close contact.

What The World Needs Now....

2006-01-02T19:14:00.000-08:00

...is more American Chopper.

Okay, I'm getting the post-New Years Bloat under control. I've had two cups of hot tea, and that's making me feel better.

So, in a Joey-perfect world, what would 2006 bring?

I'm glad you asked!

Lets start with my favorite tv shows:

Arrested Development. This is consistently one of the funniest (and underappreciated) shows on television. Critics love it....and audiences can't seem to find it. It's ultra-fast paced, and extremely funny. Keeper.

The Office. Perhaps my FAVORITE of all shows. If it can continue it's current 2-season trend of skewing away from a laugh-track, but still providing razor-sharp mock-ups of today's office personalities, it will continue to rule. I'm completely jacked that NBC has had enough sense to move this gem to it's Primary Line-Up of Thursday night.

My Name is Earl. While it can swerve towards the predictable from time to time, and occasionally dumbs itself down, it's totally worth it to watch former skate-rat turned exceptional actor Jason Lee ape for the camera. Another Thursday night gem.

Scrubs. I love a show that will dare to make fun of itself....take crazy camera angles....throw in dream sequences....and be surreal. And the characters have a fantastic chemistry. Love it.

King of Queens. Okay, part of me hates to admit this. But there is just something about Kevin James' self-deprecating humor that cracks me up. He reminds me of the idiot I knew in college. Or maybe it's the idiot I WAS in college.

And last but certainly not least:
American Chopper.
This Discovery Channel show has become a must see for me. It's an inside look of a father/son/son motorcycle shop in Orange County, New York. And it's fascinating. The dynamics between these three, their dysfunctional history (that has played out over the years), and the subsequent episodes that even showcase the 'making' of their very rise to popularity (which provides an amazing and rarely seen look into 'how' these documentaries are made, and what it takes for one to rise above and become a show) have made this an addictive pleasure.

I can now get off of the crystal meth.

What I would like to see LESS of in '06?

Crime dramas. Never liked 'em. Never watched 'em. Apparently the rest of the nation doesn't agree with me, as 98% of CBS's programming falls into this category.

Ryan Seacrest. I can only take so much.

Paris Hilton. Do I really need to explain this one?

Staged reality shows. Sooooooo played. And un-real. Der.

I'm sure I'll think of about 800 other things to add to this list after I publish it. But I'm also going to resolve to 'be less negative'.

2006-01-02T16:12:00.000-08:00

Man, have I got a New Year's bloat going on.

I've eaten more than any human should of all the following:

Cabbage with bacon
Black-eyed peas with hamhocks the size of golf balls
Corn bread
BBQ Ribs
Sweet potatoes
And assorted and sundry sugared delicacies.

Clearly, either my New Year's resolution DID NOT encompass healthy eating, or I have broken the all time record for Resolution-busting.

Happy New Year!

(and for those of you who watched our shows Thursday/Friday, then saw us today:)

Happy No Beard!

Out with the 05's, In with the 06's

2005-12-30T15:18:00.000-08:00

Sure. We all think that we're the center of the universe, here in America. But believe it or not, there are actual 'people' beyond our borders, and they have holidays as well! Who knew?

So how is New Year's Day celebrated around the world?

Since this festival marks the beginning of the year, New Year's Day is thought of as a perfect time for a "clean start" or New Year's resolutions. People worldwide resolve to act better in the year just beginning than in the year just ended.

No day has ever been observed on so many different dates or in so many different ways. All over the world, countries have their own special beliefs about what the New Year means to them.

While many people in the United States observe New Year's Day on January 1st by throwing parties late into the night on the eve of December 31st, people in China celebrate this holiday for several days between January 17th and February 19th, at the time of the new moon. The Chinese called this time of feasting and celebrations Yuan Tan. Lanterns illuminate the streets as the Chinese use thousands of lanterns "to light the way" for the New Year. The Chinese believe that evil spirits roam the earth at the New Year, so they let off firecrackers to scare off the spirits and seal their windows and doors with paper to keep the evil demons out.

In Scotland, the New Year is called Hogmanay. In the villages of Scotland, barrels of tar are set afire and then rolled down the streets. This ritual symbolizes that the old year is burned up and the new one is allowed to enter.

New Year's Day is also the Festival of Saint Basil in Greece. Children leave their shoes by the fireside on New Year's Day with the hope that Saint Basil, who was famous for his kindness, will come and fill their shoes with gifts.

The Jewish New Year is called Rosh Hashanah. It is a holy time when Jews recall the things they have done wrong in the past, and then promise to do better in the future. Special services are held in the synagogues, children are given new clothes and New Year loaves are baked to remind people of harvest time.

Iran's New Year's Day, which is in March, celebrates not only the beginning of the new year according to the solar calendar, but also bahar, "the beginning of spring."

On New Year's Day in Japan, everyone gets dressed in their new clothes and homes are decorated with pine branches and bamboo--symbols of long life.

In European countries such as Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands, families start the New Year by first attending church services. Afterwards, they visit friends and relatives. In Italy, boys and girls receive gifts of money on New Year's Day.

Here at Fox 13, we celebrate New Year's Day by encouraging you to break all the numbers but "1" and "3" on your remote control (and then resolve that you will never use one without the other.)

Hair It Is

2005-12-29T19:14:00.000-08:00

So I haven't shaved yet. It's my first time to really try and grow a beard, and for those who aren't beard savvy, I'll tell you this: it's itchy.

Will it last? I dunno. If you like it, feel free to call in and comment: 320-1340 (that's our Assignment Desk #.) If you don't like it, you can call too (although, if history is any indicator, everyone who has something negative to say will call; those who are positive - about anything - NEVER call. Go figure.)

Excited about your new year? You should be. Why? Because there are opportunities around every corner! There's great food to be eaten, good music to be heard, excellent books to be read, and conversation to be had.

Focus on the positives.

Where is everybody?

2005-12-28T08:28:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

If you've been visiting lately, and wondering where all the new, exciting info has been, well....I've been on vacation. Put together a lot of toys, a few lbs., and a semi-decent beard. Been trying to decide whether to keep it for a while or not. (Actually, I'm in a mustache-growing contest with some of my friends from church. Supposed to grow in January, but I don't think I can take the itch that long).

Anyway, I'll be back at work on Thursday.

I hope that everyone had a great Christmas, and that you'll do something personal and meaningful for New Year's Eve (could be having dinner, or just a quiet, reflective night at home).

Now, onto other things.

As many of you may already know, our Sports Director David Lee has left us to take a new position with a startup operation in New York City. It's a sports station devoted to the Mets, and some other local teams.

His last day was just before Christmas. I took some pics of his very last taping (which we do after the 9 p.m. news). As soon as I can find them, I'll post them here.

Until then, start resolving. 06 is just days away.

Cool Holiday Ideas

2005-12-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

Each year purchase an ornament for each child. Put their name and the year on it somewhere. When it is time for them to have their own family tree, give them all of their ornaments collected over the years and they will have a nice collection to hang on their first tree- and lots of stories to tell about each ornament and their Christmas memories growing up!

Give the Nativity to your child(ren). Purchase a Nativity set for each of your children that they can take with them when they leave home. Give them a piece of the set each year in their stocking. Try timing it so they get their last piece the year they turn 18. This gives them a reminder of Christmases with their family & the Savior.

Remember...

2005-12-19T18:10:00.000-08:00

Remember what it's all about.

When you're stuck in a crush of traffic...and people cut you off, or drive too slow, or drive too fast...remember what it's all about.

When you finally find a parking space, and just as you prepare to park, someone else zips into your spot....remember what it's all about.

When you're in the store, and everyone else looks angry and tired and frazzled and weary and itching to fight....remember what it's all about.

When the cashier acts like you're the one who should be thankful that she's helping you....remember what it's all about.

When you look at your empty bank account, and feel like you're not doing enough...remember what it's all about.

When life tries to squash you down with obstacles and hurt...remember what it's all about.

We want it to be a perfect holiday. We want the house to be spotless....our clothes to be right...our bodies to be skinny....but guess what?

Perfect Christmas holidays only happen on tv and in the movies.

A REAL Christmas has relatives that say things they shouldn't. And people who are late. And gifts that we don't want. And pants that are too tight. But it's these little things that make it worthwhile. If everything was perfect, we'd have nothing to laugh about later, would we?

A REAL Christmas is about us slowing down...enjoying the moments in the car (when traffic forces us to slow down); enjoying another slow, lazy drive around the lot looking for a spot; enjoying a leisurely stroll through the chaotic store, watching people.

It's about FORCING YOURSELF to FOCUS on the LOVE OF THE SEASON.

And check this: maybe you'll enjoy giving someone back a smile and shot of holiday happiness when they give you stress.

Remember what it's all about: The birth of a Savior.

It's a celebration.

Zoo Lights

2005-12-18T08:39:00.000-08:00

Okay. I know these shots are a little fuzzy. I took them on a Canon SureShot (4.1 megapixels) with the flash turned off. The problem with that is that I needed a tripod to eliminate shake. However, I'm too lazy to carry one with me wherever I go. SO, you get slightly fuzzy nighttime light pictures.

This is just the entrance. The lights go all the way through the park and around. There's free Krispy Kremem doughnuts, free cookie decorating (and eating), and free ornament making. There's even a Santa's Workshop (for kids only) to purchase gifts for Mom and Dad.

Memphis Zoo Lights:
November 25 through December 11, 2005

Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings (then....)

Nightly: December 16-23, 26-306 to 9 p.m. each evening (last admission 8:30 p.m.)

$5 for Zoo members, $6 for nonmembers

Live From the Memphis Zoo!

2005-12-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

That's me and Memphis Zoo official Julie Dodson.

Thanks for all the cool zoo stuff, Julie!

Holiday Marriage Stress!

2005-12-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

The holidays can often have the opposite effect that we hoped for: marital (and family) stress. All the pressure of the season (that we place on ourselves) can leave you wondering what truck just ran over you.

Here are some dangers that you and your spouse need to be aware of:

1- Overcommitment and physical exhaustion mean a couple only see one another when they are worn out. Reserve time for each other to keep your love alive.

2- Overuse of credit cards can easily lead to excessive debt, which creates tremendous tension. Learn to manage your money. Read a good book on how you should handle finances.

3- Selfishness will devestate a marriage over time. Practice generosity.

4- Be aware that living in close proximity to bossy in-laws can cause havoc. Guard your marital boundaries - even from intrusion by other family members.

5- Unrealistic expectations of each other or immature romantic illusions create incredible frustrations. Bring your expectations in line with reality.

6- Jealousy is a dangerous enemy. It is really a cover-up for low self-esteem and insecurity. Do not suffocate your partner.

7- Substance abuse (alcohol or drugs) will quickly waste a marriage. Stay clear.

8- Addicitions to gambling, pornography, or other destructive behaviors reveal the flawed human personality. Beware of deadly addictions.

9- Agitation over financial difficulties can often lead to anger within the family. Take it in stride and keep your cool.

10- Business success can be a tragedy if achieving it means the family is forgotten. DO NOT neglect your family - the price is too high.

Most of all, remember the reason why we have this season.

Merry Christmas!

(input courtesy of Focus on the Family)

Weather Tour!

2005-12-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

The Fox13 All-Terrain Weather Bus fueled up and drove out to Treadwell Elementary to hang out with the first grade!

We read "Twister" and in this shot (available ONLY to you, the FoxWeather Blog reader), we learned how to make a tornado.

It was my honor to visit with this group.

Weather Tour!

2005-12-13T15:27:00.000-08:00

This is the whole crew! They were incredibly sweet, bright children. Parents, you should be proud. Take care of these kids.

Weather Tour!

2005-12-13T15:24:00.000-08:00

....and this was the "we've been extremely good and mannerful and need to let out some energy" shot.

Huge thanks go to Shirley Ward and all the great teachers and Principals at Treadwell Elementary.

Keep up the good work!

2005-12-09T15:31:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking about giving away an iPod as a Fox13 Christmas giveaway.

Anyone interested?

2005-12-02T17:36:00.000-08:00

We had a great time going live from Elvis' house and showing the season get kicked off with the Official Lighting of Graceland!

Before the show, we had a chance to visit with our friends who were checking out Elvis' many things.

I got to meet Claudia and Nesto Rivas, and their son Little Nesto (father and son were kind enough to take a picture with me, above). Claudia and Nesto are members of our U.S. armed forces, and are stationed at Millington. Nesto is a Chief Petty Officer and Claudia is a Reservist.

We appreciate their service to our country, and their watching Fox 13. Thanks, Rivas!

Gift Ideas!

2005-12-01T18:25:00.000-08:00

*A Home Depot gift certificate

*An Amazon.com gift certificate

*A TV that only receives Fox 13

*A digital camera (there's LOTS of choices; get at least 4.0 megapixels)

*A meal at Texas de Brazil. Luv it.

*A DVR. It'll change the way you watch tv.

*An Elvis Christmas CD. Solid gold, baby.

2005-11-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

Here's a great gift idea for the lady in your life.

Sweeeeet. Smokin' sweet.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2005-11-24T08:20:00.000-08:00

Okay. This sounds cliched in my head as I think it, but I could not be more serious.

Part of our problem as a nation is "discontentment".

What do I mean by that?

We live in the crosshairs of Madison Avenue advertising. We swim daily through an ocean of sounds and images designed to showcase our inadequacies. Then we're told how to solve our deficiencies and become thin and beautiful like the people in the commercial: by purchasing their products.

The world, minute by minute, fuels our discontent.

Here's how you start to fix it: By LEARNING to be content.

That's right. I didn't mis-type. Learning.

None of us are born content. We all have an innate desire to go in the wrong direction, and that's something we need a higher power to overcome. So you begin by focusing on the POSITIVES in your life. Here's my exaggerated, dramatic, but simple example:

Don't like your car? Be thankful that you have one AT ALL, and don't have to walk everywhere you go.

Don't like your clothes? Be thankful that you've got more than one pair of pants. Or that you can wash them when you like, and don't have to wear them with filth on them.

Don't like your body? Celebrate the fact that you have eyesight. (I promise you, there are scores of sightless Americans who WISH they were you.)

Don't have eyesight? Celebrate your two legs that let you walk or run wherever you want to go.

Get the idea?

Learn contentment. Be thankful. Not just on the fourth Thursday of November, but every....single...day.

And see if your life doesn't seem to be better.

2005-11-24T08:15:00.000-08:00

The FoxWeatherBus travelled out to Evangelical Christian School to visit with Mrs. Cotten's and Mrs. Dowdy's Kindergartners!

Sharp minds, sharp questions, and a good time was had by all.

We talked about how weather begins and the way God keeps it all going.

Many thanks to ECS for the great visit!

Never Before Seen Photo!

2005-11-24T08:10:00.000-08:00

(this rare, behind the scenes photo is only being made available to our very good friends who visit with us here on the FoxWeatherBlog.

normally, tv stations will only show you the "good" video of a school visit. here at Fox13, we're committed to cutting through the hype and showing you what really happens when the cameras aren't rolling.

this official, documented photo shows in alarming detail what can happen when an energetic group of 2nd graders thinks you have candy and you tell them you don't.)

2005-11-24T08:02:00.000-08:00

(....and once order was restored and calm prevailed.....)

The FoxWeatherBus gassed up this week (and man are we glad gas prices are dropping. It's got a big tank) and headed out to Dexter Middle School to hang out with Mrs. Katie Nelson's 2nd graders!

They were studying the water cycle, and were VERY prepared for me. Normally, I do the explaining. This group was way ahead of me. They even had made a cool bracelet with corresponding-color beads that explained the water process.

(this is the first photo when everything was still going well).

Need something to do this weekend?

2005-11-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

Go see Walk The Line!

It's getting great reviews, and will have a pure hometown feel.

Follow it up with some good food/drink, and walk down Beale Street.

Now, next week it all ratchets up a notch.

Check back for some REAL fun stuff to do for the holiday season!

Wanna Plan for Thanksgiving and Christmas?.....

2005-11-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

......Then lets see what the Farmer's Alamanac has to say!

As a free service to Farmers Almanac.com visitors, here is the current as well as next month's weather forecasts for the Southeast United States. Forecasts for the entire year are available in the 2006 Farmers' Almanac sold in many retail store s across the US. You can also conveniently order a copy from our online store.

November 2005
1st-3rd. Fair and pleasant.
4th-7th. Unsettled, showery/thundery conditions.
8th-11th. Fair.
12th-15th. Rain, followed by clearing.
16th-19th. Pleasant.
20th-23rd. Rain Lower Mississippi Valley and South, then fair, colder.
24th-27th. Fair, which bodes well for Thanksgiving, then rain, followed by clearing.
28th-30th. Fair, milder.

December 2005
1st-3rd. Windy, rainy. Snow Tennessee.
4th-7th. Fair, cold.
8th-11th. Cold showers Gulf Coast through Southeast, then clearing. 1
2th-15th. Rain.
16th-19th. Rains clear Gulf Coast, then fair, cold, with frosts in Florida.
20th-23rd. Rain and showers, then colder.
24th-27th. Seasons Freezings? Fair and cold. Frosts down to Gulf Coast.
28th-31st. Storm system moves across, then fair and cold.

Morale to this story?
Buy overalls. And a hoe.