Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, March 21, 1990 TAG: 9003212256
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: RON BROWN STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Sorensen, 36, currently writes editorials and edits the op-ed pages for the Hartford (Conn.) Courant.
He is to begin work April 23 in Roanoke, where he replaces Gene Owens, who resigned in January.
"My impression is the editorial pages have been a respected voice in the community," Sorensen said. "I would like to continue to build on that. One measure to judge the quality of an editorial page is its influence and the respect it has of its readers."
Sorensen said he plans to emphasize local and regional issues, while addressing some national and state concerns.
"Alan Sorensen comes to Roanoke at a time when a lot of important issues confront us, and I'm sure he will produce a readable and intelligent forum," said Walter Rugaber, president and publisher of the newspaper. "He's a good listener with a moderate temperament who wants to get out into the community and the region, and he will learn fast.
"I expect him to give us an editorial page with vigorous institutional opinions and opposing viewpoints, all of which readers can use to broaden their perspectives and to help make up their minds."
In Hartford, Sorensen, a former business writer, tried to solicit increased commentaries from members of the community, including opinions on local economic issues. His editorials covered topics including economic development, waste management and political accountability.
He previously had written editorials for The Globe-Times in Bethlehem, Pa.
The son of a foreign service officer, Sorensen was born in Beirut and was graduated from Yale University with a degree in history. He is a nephew of Theodore C. Sorensen, an adviser to Presidents Kennedy and Carter.
His wife, Mariana, was a prosecutor in Philadelphia. The couple has three children.
"I was struck flying into Roanoke by the sight of the mountains," Sorensen said. "Once here, I was impressed by the hospitality of the people I came in contact with. It seems to be an area that prizes neighborhoods and family life."
by CNB