Posted by chicagomedia.org on July 16, 2008 at 12:10:36:
Warm front
Skilling offers upbeat forecast for WGN's new anchor lineup
Weatherman Tom Skilling, the undisputed No. 1 star at WGN-Channel 9, says he's "incredibly relieved" to continue working with Steve Sanders -- and he's rolling out the welcome mat for newcomer Mark Suppelsa.
About to celebrate his 30th year as chief meteorologist, Skilling reacted with his typical cheerful optimism to the anchor changes announced last week at the Tribune Co.-owned station.
With Suppelsa hired to anchor at 5:30 and 9 p.m., Sanders will move to an expanded 90-minute midday newscast at 11:30 a.m.
"Steve Sanders is one of the nicest and wittiest people I know in this business --an incredibly decent guy in literally every sense of the word," Skilling said.
"I'm incredibly relieved he's not leaving us, and thrilled at the thought of working with him again on the midday show. I love that show and I know Steve does too. Steve put that show on the map back in the 1980s, and the thought of working at Steve's side on that program again makes my day."
As for Suppelsa, who comes from rival Fox-owned WFLD-Channel 32, Skilling said: "I'm also looking forward to getting to know and work at Mark's side.
"Coming into a new shop isn't easy, but working at WGN has been something he's dreamed of doing, and he's going to enjoy working with everyone here. . . . We've got an amazing audience who will welcome him."
(Feder)