National Storm Chasers Convention

Denver, Colorado 2006

The 8th annual National Storm Chaser Convention was held in Denver on Feb 17 through 19, 2006. I had a great time seeing old friends, learning more about forecast techniques, tornado formation and chase equipment along with watching some amazing tornado video. The lectures were very informative, especially John Davies tornado forecasting (Cold Core systems) and supercell vs nonsupercell tornadoes along with Tim Marshall's lecture on tornado damage and building techniques. Dr Forbes of The Weather Channel had a great talk on supercells and recent tornado outbreaks. I also enjoyed the talks on Colorado meteorology by Bob Glancy, waterspouts by Dr. Golden and two lectures on tornado formation by Dr. Wurman and Dr. Marskowski. Jim Reed had some amazing photos during his lecture and I learned some nice photographic techniques. Of course, Dr. Doswell III had a very entertaining and informative lecture on chaser safety and behavior. Seeing everybody and having a chance to talk in a relaxed situation is the most fun. Usually, most people are in a rush to check data or get to their target while in the field. The spirit of the conference wasn't dampened by the brief power outage due to the record cold though I am glad I wasn't one of the people stuck in the elevator. Tim Samaras kept the conference going after wiring the proejctor to his chase vehicle with a very long cord. Thanks to the organizers (Roger Hill, Tim Samaras and David Drummond) along with the speakers and sponsors.

"Hands on" demonstration with Stickypod camera mounts	Chasers checking out the sponsors	Tim Vasquez selling Digital Atmosphere and meteorology books.	Dr. Greg Forbes of The Weather Channel talking with some chasers
Lunch between meetings	Roger Hill and Tim Samras distributing some door prizes	Tim Marshall talking about tornado damage and construction	Chris Collura of Weathervine selling hurricane DVD's
Lunch between meetings	Tim Samaras and Jim Reed fixing the projector	Dave Lewison conducts an experiment using coffee and sub-zero temperatures	Dr Doswell III waiting for the blackout to end
Minature lighting using Dan Robinson's Van De Graaf generator (great for SDS!)	The effect of increased static charges on hair	Two kids learn about electricity	Watching the many lectures
Scott Blair and Jeff and Kathryn Piotrowski	(L to R)Mike Theiss, Matt Crowther, Jeff Piotrowski Dave Lewison,Mike Umscheid,Jim Leonard	(L to R)Dave Lewison, Mike Umscheid Katie Bay	Late evening Hurricane video party watching Mike Theiss' amazing "Theiss Device" and other Katrina video
(L to R) Mike Umscheid, Matt Crowther, Betsy Abrams Bill Hark, Mike Theiss, Dave Lewison	Jon Davies talking about non supercell tornado forecasting parameters	Jim Reed's amazing photography and talk on photo techniques	Denver Airport tornado shelter area (L to R) Angie Norris and Sara Johnson