[SIERA] Monthly meeting

[Dick Young]

Way back in Whisky Whisky II, a spotter was a person who climbed up on a platform 20-30 feet above the ground, had a pair of binoculars (bought 'em yourself) and scanned the sky for the axis planes that were sure to come.  If not today, then probably tomorrow!

At the tender age of 12 the Army Air Force wouldn't let me fly 51's but, just maybe, I'd see one from my perch way up in the sky.  Heck, who knows, maybe even a dogfight.  I'd read all about those, knew all the turns, speeds and specs and at that tender age, a dogfight was my dream.  By 14 I was on to girls and put dogfights behind.

So here, decades later, I'm a spotter again.  Turned in the binoculars for a rain gauge, gave up the platform and turned in looking for Stukas to scanning for rain, wind, snow, fog and flooding.  And, oh yes, gave up the 'girls' for one magnificent lady.

I can contact the Weather Service on the six-one repeater and let them know the happenings here or use their 800 number if I choose.  They even express great appreciation for my efforts and let me know I'm performing a real service to the community.

This Thursday, you and I will get the details on the Reno NWS Spotter program.  Plan to attend the SIERA meeting at 7 PM at the Methodist Church in Gardnerville on Centerville Lane.

You don't even need to turn in your binoculars to get a new rain gauge.