(L to R) -- Meteorologist Intern Tabitha Bray, Arkansas First Lady Janet Huckabee, WCM John Robinson and Forecaster Nelson de Villiers (Photo: WFO Little Rock)

(Oct. 13, 2006) -- Janet Huckabee, wife of Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, paid a visit to the Weather Forecast Office (WFO) in Little Rock September 21. During a tour conducted by Meteorologist-in-Charge Renee Fair and Warning Coordination Meteorologist John Robinson, Arkansas' First Lady expressed keen interest in the forecast process, how warnings are issued and the upper air program. With the possibility of severe weather and the likelihood of a special upper air release the following day - Mrs. Huckabee asked if she could return.

As it turned out, a special release was necessary prior to an outbreak of tornadoes and flash floods in Arkansas on the 22nd. As promised, Mrs. Huckabee returned to the office to watch the balloon go up. She also indicated that she would like to be on hand during a severe weather outbreak to observe the forecasters issue warnings. Governor and Mrs. Huckabee recently purchased a home less than two miles from the WFO.

In addition to her personal interest in the weather, she has a professional interest as well. Mrs. Huckabee is now the Program Manager of State Emergency Management Relations for the American Red Cross.

Meteorologist Intern Tabitha Bray, Arkansas First Lady Janet Huckabee and Forecaster Nelson de Villiers prepare weather balloon for launch (Photo: WFO Little Rock)