By LYNN ELBER, AP Television Writer

LOS ANGELES - At least six correspondents are leaving CNN as the news channel continues to shake up its programming and personnel to compete with front-runner Fox News Channel.

Among the most familiar faces, Garrick Utley has decided against remaining with the network, CNN spokeswoman Christa Robinson said Monday.

Bruce Morton is also reportedly considering leaving the network, although CNN has not asked him to leave, Robinson added. Morton, whose contract ends later this month, said he has not yet made a decision.

"We're talking," he said. "To say how it's going to come out is a little early."

The contracts of five others were not renewed at the end of 2002, Robinson said. They are Brooks Jackson, Allan Dodds Frank, Mark Potter, Bruce Francis and James Hattori.

"It's actually a very small turnover ... this was actually a very calm year," said Walter Isaacson, chairman and chief executive officer of CNN News Group. He spoke to members of the Television Critics Association, meeting in Los Angeles, by satellite from CNN's Atlanta headquarters.

CNN is adhering to its high journalist standards in any new hiring that's being done, Isaacson said, adding that the news channel looks for the most credible and serious journalists.

"This is not some youth movement," he said.

There also was uncertainty about the future of business anchor Willow Bay after CNN canceled her two weekend programs, "Pinnacle" and "Business Unusual." more

-- Anonymous, January 06, 2003