Weston, James 1989-04-06
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General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: James Weston
Additional Parties Recorded:
Date: April 06, 1989
Location: Lubbock, Texas
Interviewer: Richard J. Mason
Length: 01:52:37
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1:
James Weston was the Director of administrative services in Lubbock in 1989. He was also the Emergency Management Coordinator of Lubbock. He discusses the reaction process to severe weather. He talks about monitoring weather around Eastern NM, Midland/Odessa, and everywhere within 50-75 miles around Lubbock. He works with the DPS and the National Weather Service when there is a threat of severe weather. The plan that was in effect during the tornado of 1970 was from 1960. The last update before 1989 was in 1983. The plan of 1983 provided additional roles in the case of an emergency. The city of Lubbock had only 8 sirens and James stressed the importance of the citizens remaining aware during times with severe weather. In 1970, the city was without radio communication for 2 hours.
Tape 1, Side 2:
James discusses the stress level he faces during periods with severe weather including how it affects his sleep patterns. He discusses the role of media in informing the community of severe weather and how Lubbock news stations are more cooperative than most since they allow for special symbols that may cover up Bill Cosby's nose. Lubbock lost phone service in 1970 and therefore radio was the primary form of communication. Radio stations are informed by the DBS signal and the weather service is a secondary way of being informed. Mr. Weston is in charge until the City Manager arrives during a warning and then he becomes support for the City Manager. He discusses the danger of flying debree and says the safest thing is find a bathroom without windows and to cover up with blankets and pillows. It is his duty to be prepared in order to lessen the blow when responding to an emergency.
Tape 1, Side 1:
James talks about his experience in Florida when they were responding to hurricanes. He talks about some people's lack of caution during sever weather and says that 25/26 people were killed because they were in their cars. (He is not 100% sure) He talks about the role of sirens, radio, weather service, media, government, the public, and especially the importance of communication between the City Manager and the police chief and fire dept. The financial concern goes out of the window when facing an emergency.
Tape 1, Side 1:
Resources during a crisis. Street crew responsibilities during 1970. Storm chasers/spotters are the eyes and are very important. He considers it good if 5/7 storm spotters are available during the summer. He discusses his personal history with Richard including his baseball career, growing up in the mid 50's, and going to college. His wife was a teacher making $325/month as a teacher in 1967
Access Information
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