Local Daily Loses Two More Key Players

Michael Stowe

The losses continue to mount at Roanoke's daily newspaper with the resignations of Managing Editor Michael Stowe and hot young reporter Zach Crizer.

Stowe, who has been with The Roanoke Times for more than two decades, is leaving journalism for a job at Virginia Tech as an executive in its news division. Here's his note to the staff:

"After 22 years at The Roanoke Times I’m leaving for a job as the Communications Director for Virginia Tech News. My last day will be Jan. 9. This newsroom is an incredible place to work – and you guys are the reason why. Leaving is really hard but it’s the right move for me at this point in my career.

 "I’ve grown up at The Roanoke Times and I’m grateful for it. I have learned from every one of you. I admire all of you and appreciate all you have done to make this newspaper better. The work you do here is important to this community – it matters a lot. Just keep find and telling great stories. I will continue to be your biggest cheerleader and supporter."

Zach Crizer

Crizer, who is moving to New York and will look for a job there, made a name for himself in investigative reporting. Crizer's reporting on the Tobacco Commission's questionable activities in far Southwestern Virginia recently drew rave reviews from the Virginia Press Association, as did being part of a team that looked at use of seat belts in rural Virginia.

The paper continues to vomit some of its best people on the news side. I have learned, however, that it has hired two people I respect a lot (in spite of my advice not to work there). They will be good for the product, but I don't have any feeling that either will stay for more than a while. I won't mention their names. I'd prefer they leave on their own terms.