Chicagoan Gary Sinise & The Brooklyn Memorial Wall

Exciting news! I talked to my new friend, Brooklyn Ray, and he told me that Chicago’s Very Own Gary Sinise was back at the Brooklyn Memorial Wall Monday morning. Sinise helped raise funds and gave his own money to help get that Wall finished. We can all be proud of this hometown hero for his contributions and his patriotism.

Sinise, who is one of the producers on his hit show, “CSI: New York, came back to Brooklyn to shoot a scene at the wall for an upcoming episode. I believe the set up is Gary’s character, Detective Mac Taylor, is in Brooklyn for a fictional dedication of the Wall.

And here’s the cool part–Brooklyn Ray, as well as one of the mothers I interviewed last week, are in the audience as extras! Now why couldn’t this have happened while I was in Brooklyn? I’d love to be an extra in a tv show or movie. I’d love to just see the production and how it compares to all I know–tv news.

Ray tells me the Brooklyn Wall episode of CSI: New York airs on September 23rd. It feels strange promoting another Chicago television station, but tune in to CBS 2 Chicago on the 23rd to see the Wall and our new friends, including Brooklyn Ray do their thing!

Ray also says Gary Sinise sent his love to all of us here in Chicago. Like everyone from the Windy City, Sinise is very proud of his hometown.

Finally, I may have misspelled Gary Sinise’s name in a previous blog. I am very, very sorry. I meant no disrespect as I am a huge fan of Chicago’s Gary Sinise.

Monday Evening Thoughts

Friends and Supporters, I’m looking forward to putting the final touches on WGN’s 9-11 special this week. Producer Pam Grimes continues to line-up interviews — right here in Chicago. There is no shortage of story opportunities! So many people were touched by 9-11.

Friends, you have no idea how much work goes into a television report once you get back to the station! You have to transcribe all of the videotape. Select good soundbites from interviews and good shots captured by the photographer. Producer Pam Grimes is extremely anal (in nothing but a good way) when it comes to choosing just the right sound from an interview and just the right shots she wants to use. This process can take a good deal of time. Meanwhile, our assistant news director, Jennifer Lyons, (one of the sweetest souls in broadcasting) needs feedback on how to describe the report for the promotion department. Promotions will also want the best video we got in New York for their promos. Think about it, tv stations start promoting shows weeks and sometimes months ahead of the broadcast. So you get hit up for footage and script suggestions before you can put your bags down.

Bottom line: I promise you, by the time Pam, Mike, and I get done pouring over every second and every frame–we’ll have a fine report for you to enjoy. (There may be a number of disagreements on the way to air time. But that’s part of the process that makes a great report in the end.).

I’m just so excited about Assignment Ground Zero!

And in other news, the Bud Billiken Parade.

This past weekend, Chicagoans celebrated back to school time with the annual Bud Billiken Parade. Everybody who’s anybody comes out to celebrate our children and their education.

The Bud has long been my favorite Chicago parade. I’m sorry – the others just don’t come close. The Bud is an African American parade, and I heard CBS 2 Chicago call it the second largest in the country! It is something! The marching bands, the Jesse White Tumblers, and the barbeques all along the route! I want everyone to know WGN invited me to ride their float, knowing how important celebrating with my own community is to me. However, after a strenuous week in New York, I was just too wiped out to make it. I am so sad I missed. I never miss the Bud.

But let me say to all right here right now — Go get ‘em kids! Hit your books hard! Nothing is more important than learning, and education is a lifelong process. You might finish high school or college, but no one ever finishes learning. So LEARN to enjoy the learning process!

Love, love to all our blessed young people as they head back to the classroom. And, love to all our Chicago area teachers. Teachers are perhaps our most vital community leaders. Thank you, teachers, for all your hard work and dedication on behalf of our kids. Here’s to an awesome school year!

Love,

Allison

My New York Wrap-Up

Assignment Ground Zero - Allison Payne Reports‏

Time to wrap up my blogs from New York this past week. On our last day, we toured the construction site of the new 9-11 memorial and museum. I stood on the sacred ground where the Towers once stood, and said a silent prayer for the souls lost there.

Our tour guide was a 9-11 survivor and a member of a prominent Chicago family. He has never spoken to the media, so I am not revealing his name to protect the exclusivity of my report.

This young man was just 23 years old working on the 100th floor of the south tower when the plane hit. His story of survival is a miracle. After all these years, this proud Chicagoan hesitates to make himself the focus. He chooses to talk about the victims and their families. However, he has stayed close to New York and the construction of the memorial through his work on the memorial board. His mission is to get more of Chicago involved in the legacy of 9-11 which I will tell you about in my report next month. For now, I want you all to know that if we follow his lead, we can all make a difference.

As for me, I am wearing a bracelet that bears the name of one firefighter killed on 9-11. His mother put the bracelet on my arm after I interviewed her. I cried as I hugged her and thanked her for sharing her story with WGN.

Chicagoans, I promise you, I collected some amazing and compelling stories during my time in New York. It was an experience this reporter will forever hold close to her heart.

New York’s renaissance following 9-11 makes all of us better Americans. God bless all of you and God Bless America.

WGN’s special report airs September 9th. I will continue to update you from this site. Thank you for reading.

Sincerely and respectfully,
Allison

Scrapbook bar owner Mike Keane of O'Hara's across the street from WTC‏.

WGN gets a private tour of the 9-11 memorial.

Meeting A Brooklyn Angel

Allison Payne with Ray Goffio. (Photo by Pam Grimes)

Friends and Supporters,

Another fantastic day in New York! We started at St. Paul’s church right across the street from our beloved World Towers– the church that miraculously survived destruction after the attacks.

There we met Ray Goffio, a Brookln angel who fed emergency workers for months after the attacks. Ray is a hero you need to hear about because he’s an ordinary citizen who stepped and served as an example to all of us about infinite compassion, dedication, and patriotism. I adore Ray! He’s my kind of guy because he doesn’t take no for an answer! I am serious here! This man does not accept the word NO when he wants something!

Before saying goodbye, Ray actually got us inside Firehouse 10, also right across from World Trade. I imagine these guys might have been the first on the scene on 9-11 simply because of their proximity to World Trade. (I could be wrong about that so please note I am not reporting that as a fact- just my own personal conclusion).

But again, thanks to Ray, we actually got our cameras inside the historic firehouse. We didn’t have official permission, but Ray is an honorary battalion chief, and he has some serious connections in New York City! A few phone calls later… a break for lunch… and Ray got us in!

Check out my photos with Ray, and say a prayer for this amazing American. He deserves to be lifted up in prayer and thanks for his work on behalf of all of us who couldn’t be here to offer a fraction of the support Ray provided.

We saw some of the damaged memorabilia, and more impressively, the gorgeous memorial outside the house. We were able to film inside the firehouse and chat with some of the current firefighters working there.

Also included are photos of the rest of WGN’s New York team. They are producer Pam Grimes and photographer Mike D’Angelo. They are the best team in Chicago-winning at the Emmys year after year. And they are two of the colleagues I am proud to call friends. This may be our last assignment together for wgn, but I have a feeling we will do even greater work together in the future. So stay tuned!

I want to thank Pam and Mike for making me look so good because of their talent. And I want to thank Pam for helping me grow into a confident journalist over the 21 years we have worked together at WGN.

Pam produced my coverage of Coretta Scott King’s funeral in Atlanta, my profile on Chicago’s Father Michael Pfleger (Emmy winner), and a special report on Reverend and Mrs. Jesse Jackson (another Emmy winner).

I will miss Pam Grimes and Mike D’Angelo tremendously when this project is over. I wish them well in their future prossional endeavors at wgn. The station is so fortunate to have two such dedicated broadcast journalists. It’s been an honor and my privilege to be the face and voice of their hard work.

One final note before I close for tonite. As I stood across from the new construction on the World Trade site, I noted that everyone walking by looked up to see the construction cranes working on the 9-11 museum and memorial. Their faces seemed to be looking for signs that the infamous day is truely behind us. And a bright future is to come.

Allison Payne,
WGN News, Chicago

Producer Pam Grimes and photographer Mike D'Angelo.

With Vincent, a firefighter from Firehouse 10-10

Firehouse 10-10 New York, directly across from Ground Zero.

My Best Day In Journalism

Calvin and Anita Patterson stumble upon the wall. (Photo by Pam Grimes)

I’ve been in broadcast news for some 25 years, but I’m about to describe what has been my best day in journalism.

WGN Producer Pam Grimes found what is called “The Brooklyn Memorial Wall.” Originally, the wall was supposed to honor the Brooklyn firefighters who died on 9-11. But over the years, the wall has expanded to honor all of the first responders on that tragic day–firefighters, police officers, port authority, FBI–any and all rescuers from New York who raced to that horrific scene.

While the rest of the country focuses on the completion of a memorial at Ground Zero, the memorial wall has been complete for several years–existing almost anonymously because word of its existence hasn’t got out as it should.

It was an honor and a privilege to meet the man who made the memorial wall possible-Sol Moglen. You’ll learn more about Sol, a true Brooklyn treasure, in our WGN special report.

But here’s what I will carry with me forever. I interviewed two women who both lost a son on 9-11. Their names are Alice Henry and Regina Coyle. Alice’s husband, Ed, is a retired batallion chief who survived that day after BOTH towers collapsed around him! Ed Henry’s powerful story confirms my belief in a higher power who determines our destiny.

I have covered many compelling stories during my career. But to stand at that wall today and come face to face with the victims was a moment of pure patriotism. I loved these people immediately. After their interviews, the mothers put their arms around ME, and I held on so tight hoping my hug would convey the love of all Chicagoans who would never meet these women, but felt their pain.

Meeting Ed, Alice, and Regina was a moment of pure patriotism. And in that moment I was so proud to be just like them–an American.

Please take a look at some photos from our day at the Brooklyn Memorial Wall–my best day in journalism.

Allison the "Animal Lover"

Flight Delayed, But It’s Really Okay

Well, tonite is one of those news stories about travel I’d rather tell you about from the news set.

We have been delayed for three hours because of weather in New York and Chicago. (I’m always so glad when this isn’t me).

But I ate a delicious Starbucks sandwich. And producer Pam Grimes and photographer Mike D’Angelo went to the bar nearest our gate.

You know what? It’s really okay and here’s why. I haven’t been on a special report shoot in two years! I mean not even a regular special shot in Chicago!

Working on special reports is what I missed most when I started working the Midday at WGN. I begged the bosses to no avail. I was stuck with those dreadful daily cooking segments!

So no matter what, I’m glad to be out and really gathering news. News never happens inside a cold tv studio. News is out in the world-with regular and sometimes extraordinary people. And that’s what I really want you to see me doing.–being a reporter.

Gotta nab that tenth Emmy somehow.

Allison

Packing For NY

Hello Friends!

I hope you’re all well and enjoying a nice weekend. Not too hot today-thanks, Mr. Skilling! (I can’t wait to get time to share with you my thoughts on the fabulous Tom Skilling!) He really is ALL THAT!!! So stay tuned.

Right now, I am frantically packing for my trip to New York to report on the 9-11 anniversary. Like many of you, I still feel the pain of that day. The fear and unending sadness.

I leave tomorrow with two of the best professionals in the business. Producer Pam Grimes and photojournalist Mike D’Angelo. Let me tell you, Pam and Mike are beyond good–they’re magical!

I will keep you posted on our work from New York. Just check here daily for the latest.

Thank You!

Hello devoted friends!

Wow! What a day I had yesterday! I thought I was dead because my story was everywhere! Sure, I knew I’d be in Stella Foster’s column, but I had to pinch myself when my girlfriend, Carolyn Curry, called and told me I was on WGN! My own station was reporting my departure. I checked to make sure the other channels weren’t reporting on me–becuse if I turned up on 2,5, 7, and Fox–then I was dead for sure!

Thank you WGN for the kind words about my departure. I have so much to say about Chicago’s Very Own superstation. I plan to describe it to you in detail in the days to come- so stay tuned to this site for my tales and anecdotes about the old Number 9!

Later yesterday afternoon, the Chicago Tribune picked up my story. I honestly didn’t think I was this big of a deal, but maybe it was a slow news day? I was so busy fielding phone calls and emails all day. I was overwhelmed. Remember, I’m a Detroiter who never expected to work in the city I call the Mecca of the Midwest! Chicago!!!

Let me stop right now and thank Stella, star of the Sun-Times, Foster! Stella stayed in constant contact with me during my seven months of sick leave. Being benched left me bored to tears (I missed hosting “People to People” most of all), but Stella would call to check on me and suggest I read her column to find something fabulous going on in town that I could go to and enjoy myself. The stellar Stella Foster helped me keep my sanity. (I will have more on Stella and why I chose to give her the scoop on my departure tomorrow).

I also want to thank my dear friend and former intern Paul Cesarz (my tv son) who came by my house nearly every week to check on me and keep me encouraged about possibly going back to work. Paul has become a web expert since his days as a WGN newsroom intern. In fact, Paul now works in the web department at CBS Chicago! So Paul put together this web page for me. The project was fun, gave me something constructive to do, and inspired other projects to tackle.

Being away from that giant concrete block which houses WGN made me realize how much I missed the place, who I missed at work, and exactly what I missed doing. I found myself working on ideas for Gloria Brown, executive producer of “People to People.” Not only did I host “People,” I also produced the show occasionally. That’s why I concluded I’d like to try my hand at producing documentaries. Gloria and I talked at length at least once a week, and she was as anxious as I was to get me back on the show.

Remember, I first went on 6 weeks of sick leave for a damaged vocal chord. During that time I admit I did a lot of online shopping for fresh suits to wear on the Midday and I invested in some gorgeous designer shoes to wear on the “People” set (you can see the host’s feet on that show). Ladies, I’m talking about the red soled Christian Loubitan’s that Oprah wore all the time. Maybe if you all write in WGN will let come back and host a few shows so I can at least rock my fabulous shoes just once? Where else am I going to wear these 5 inch heels? Thank you Gloria for keeping my spirits up and discouraging me from investing more money on shoes!

Next, a big heartfelt thank you to WGN segment producer, Pam Grimes for her weekly calls to check on me. Pam and I worked on many projects together (Pam is producing my last project for WGN which will air next month). Pam took me to lunch a few times-a show of kindness I will never forget. Pam and I started at WGN the same year, and we have a book to write about our battles, our victories, and some really funny stories that I promise will have you in tears! Pam, do you want me to start the book while I look for my next job? Viewers, let me know, should I write a book for you? Would you read it?

Thank you to my friend and make up artist, Joseph Hampton who came by for dinner just about every week. Joseph would try to enjoy his food while my cat, Bradley, crawled all over him. And Jospeh suffered through South Park nights with me. It’s now Bob’s Burgers on Fox. Hilarious little show. Joseph always brought me a little gift and treats for my Adopt a Pet dog, Bear. Joseph is an amazing make up artist everyone. I am going to post his info on my website for you. Ladies, I am very serious here- if you need make up for a special event, Joseph Hampton is your man. He will make you so beautiful. You won’t believe it! Joseph is like the brother I never had. He’s supportive, he’s loving, he’s funny. And he introduced me to my biggest fan, a fashion stylist who calls herself Tina Payne when she’s pretending to be my cousin. Her real name is Laton Chairs, and Joseph first told me about her a couple of years ago. But again, I waited until I found myself on sick leave before hiring Laton to work on my closets and put my on-air outfits together. I had no idea at the time I would never get to wear Laton’s work for my viewers on WGN. Again, it was an investment I thought would help me on the job. But that’s not what God had planned. I believe God brought Laton into my life to tell me how watching me on the news inspired her as a black woman. I have to say, for a long time, Laton’s Tina Payne character wore me out! But the blessing behind it was just the message I needed. During all those years on WGN, I made many, many people proud. I inspired them.

Tina Payne’s love allows me to forgive myself for my mistakes and hold my head high because in the end- I did a great job.

Thank you for reading. Come back to this site tomorrow for more.

Love to you all!
Allison

Saying Good-Bye To The WGN Anchor Desk

Friends,

As you may have read or heard, I am leaving WGN, my professional home for the last 21 years.

It has been an honor and a privilege to work at such a fine television station with the smartest viewers in the greatest city in the world!

While I will miss the day to day interaction with my colleagues, some of whom are my closest friends, I recognize my health issues had become a burden to the station.

I intend to stay in Chicago and active in other facets of broadcasting. Down the road, I plan to begin producing my own documentaries. I also plan to produce occasional reports which I will share with you on this website.

I am not ruling out a return to the anchor desk, but for now I need new intellectual challenges. I’m open to applying my communication skills to the business world as well.

Finally, I will continue my work in the mosaic of Chicago communities that I love so dearly.

Thank you to all of you for your expressions of love and support. I look forward to staying in touch with all of you in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Stay tune to this webpage. I’ll have more exciting stories about my career here in Chicago.

With Gratitude,

Allison Payne
Payne Productions

Thoughts On Today’s Swearing-In Ceremony, Chicago’s New Chapter

I’d like to share some thoughts with you today as a Chicago resident and as a journalist.

I had the good fortune to attend the swearing-in ceremony for Mayor Rahm Emanuel today. The weather was sunny, but crisp. You could feel celebration in the air!

Mayor Emanuel and his wife were all smiles as he took the oath of office while the crowd cheered enthusiastically! Here’s wishing our new mayor the best!

During his address, Emanuel talked about at length about fiscal responsibility. It sounds like taxpayers should expect some major belt tightening.

Forgive me, but as we usher in a new era, I would like to say a proper good bye to Richard M. Daley. I interviewed Daley several times during my 20 years here, and I was always nervous! Come on! It was Daley! Chicago’s Daley! And where I come from, Chicago is the Mecca of the Midwest!

I grew up in Detroit, so I have a unique view of Chicago. After the riots in the 1960’s, people a lways said Detroit would come back. It didn’t. Then the auto industry tanked and left thousands out of work. Even the soundtrack of Detroit went quiet. Motown left Detroit for Hollywood.

Chicago is known for it’s beautiful flowers and gardens, but there are no flowers in Detroit. Mayor Daley planted a floral paradise!

I once nterviewed Mayor Daley about his obsession with flora. Standing outside City Hall, he talked about how beauty is important to the mood of the citizens. Beauty would attract tourists, too. And it did! People came from all over the world to see Daley’s flowers, his parks, and his Bean.

I am always moved by the enthusiasm of native Chicagoans. They love their town! And I am thinking of one Chicagoan in particular now.

Rahm Emanuel.

He could have stayed in the White House. But the White House isn’t Chicago! This is a powerful town in its own right.

And here comes another powerful man to take the helm. Good luck, Mayor Emanuel. Keep us on track.

And Mayor Daley, thank you for showing not just your own citizens, but the country and the world how fabulous a major urban American city can be.

Now, if I could just have a word with you about all my parking tickets!

Love to all of Chicagoland and my personal favorite–Chicago’s Very Own–WGN!!

Allison