Walter Cronkite says new `CBS Evening News' anchor Katie Couric `is doing a great job'

Friday, September 15th 2006, 12:12 pm

By: News On 6

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) _ In town to be honored by the National Sailing Hall of Fame, legendary newsman Walter Cronkite described his long love of sailing and his great appreciation of the Chesapeake Bay.

He also had a word of encouragement for ``CBS Evening News'' anchor Katie Couric, who made her debut last week. Cronkite occupied the anchor chair from 1962 to 1981.

``I think she is doing a great job,'' Cronkite told The (Baltimore) Sun, adding that he considered the program's new format featuring longer magazine formats and citizen commentaries ``somewhat revolutionary.''

Cronkite, 89, was named Thursday as the honorary chairman of the advisory board of the National Sailing Hall of Fame and toured the group's temporary quarters in Annapolis.

The state Stadium Authority and the City of Annapolis have committed about $100,000 toward a six-month site study in preparation for building a permanent home for the museum.

Hall of Fame President Dick Franyo said Cronkite's career as a sailor rivals his career as a journalist.

``He's a huge sailor, he's the dean,'' Franyo told The Baltimore Examiner.

Cronkite said he's been sailing since 1947 and spent a lot of time on the Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis Mayor Ellen Moyer proclaimed Sept. 14 Walter Cronkite Day and named him an honorary ambassador for the city.