Weather Hero Award Presented to Simonton Windows

 PARKERSBURG, W. VA. – The Weather Research Center and The John C. Freeman Weather Museum have presented Simonton Windows® with a 2008 Weather Hero Award. Started in 2006, the national Weather Hero Awards recognize individuals or groups who have demonstrated heroic qualities during the past year in the following fields: education of others in the field of science or math; volunteer efforts in the meteorological community; helping others during a weather crisis.

 “We are honoring Simonton Windows for their generous contribution of Simonton StormBreaker Plus® windows to our Houston facilities,” says Jill Hasling, CCM of The Weather Research Center. “When we opened the doors to the nation’s first weather museum in 2006, Simonton Windows provided us with 70 impact-resistant windows to replace the building’s original 1933 windows. We had no idea how important these advanced-technology windows would be until Hurricane Ike hit our area this past year.

“Two forecasters and the president of The Weather Research Center stayed on duty throughout Hurricane Ike to monitor the storm and provide valuable weather data. Winds, gusting greater than 90mph, combined with driving rain and flying debris slammed our facilities during the hurricane. Despite the dramatic weather conditions of Hurricane Ike, the windows never even cracked --- they are truly the heroes that helped protect our facilities.”

 The 2008 Weather Hero Award was accepted by Tim Vitale, a national account manager for Simonton Windows, during a gala event on February 2, 2009 in Houston.

  “The work done by The Weather Research Center, 365 days a year, is incredibly valuable to many people and organizations throughout our nation,” says Mark Savan, president of Simonton Windows. “We are honored to receive the 2008 Weather Hero award and appreciate the opportunity to support the tremendous work of the staff at both The Weather Research Center and the John C. Freeman Weather Museum.”

 Simonton StormBreaker Plus windows are constructed with laminated, double-strength glass. This helps the units withstand high winds and flying debris without the need for plywood or shutter coverings. Window profiles are made of sturdy premium vinyl and are reinforced with steel. The result is a line of energy-efficient, impact-resistant windows and doors so impressive they can help meet stringent building code requirements for impact protection and stand up to severe weather conditions.