[1][3] Shortly after moving to WKY-TV in Oklahoma City, he was ordered by his boss to advise viewers of tornado risk in the area, a practice not allowed by the federal government at the time over fears it would create panic.

[6] WKY-TV remained on-air until 1 a.m.,[7] with residents of Woodward, Alva and adjacent farm communities having retreated to storm cellars, prompted by the alert.

[11] A fine vocalist and a member of his church choir for many years, Volkman would often mix a little music into his weather forecasts wherever he worked.

His son, Ed, formerly hosted a long-running morning radio show in Chicago titled "Eddie & JoBo" on WBBM-FM B96.

[13] Volkman's long-time work in Chicago area television was recognized in 1998 when he became a member of the local Emmys Silver Circle.