Storm chaser program here next week

Eddy Weiss and "Dorothy," his storm-chasing vehicle. (Courtesy photo)

A storm chaser and disaster preparedness trainer plans informative and fun-filled presentations in McCook Tuesday, March 31.

Eddy Weiss, of Chasing4Life, will blend comedy and tragedy as a storm chaser and disaster resilience expert in the presentations hosted by Great Plains Communications and the McCook Rotary Club.

Weiss will address school children during the day, and then the public, at 7 p.m., in the Heritage Senior Center, 1312 W. Fifth in McCook. There will be no admission charge to the evening program.

Weiss is driven by a curiosity to understand the principles that create a successful life and a desire to provide community safety, and has earned a reputation as a leading authority in the areas of disaster preparedness, strategic planning, disaster mitigation and practical problem-solving.

While serving as a volunteer firefighter and storm spotter about 20 years ago, Weiss developed an interest in weather phenomenon. He is now well-known throughout the country as storm chaser and disaster preparedness and resilience educator.

Strapped into "Dorothy," his storm chase vehicle, Weiss appears in television programs and at community presentations, sharing his messages of disaster preparedness.

Weiss has also become a well-known story-teller and inspirational speaker, relying on his background in crisis counseling and rescue work. He addresses:

* What if it happens here?

* What will this year's storm season look like?

* Why is a home disaster kit so important?

* What are the real threats against Nebraska?

* How do we protect our lives and homes without becoming paranoid?

Weiss serves as director of Chasing4Life, and is the leader of the national Chasing4Life storm chase team based in the Midwest. He has been recognized for his work for community organizations, churches, schools and civic groups throughout the United States, and recently received a Presidential away for a lifetime of service to America's communities.

More information on Weiss and programs such as emergency management, mass fatality management, disaster mental health and population health infrastructure can be found at: Chasing4Life.com