September 2nd, 2008 
joel One of the best attributes of the internet is when you find a site that you really enjoy and enriches your life. For two years, perhaps the site that exemplified that for me was Erie Media-Go-Round, lovingly and creatively edited by Jack Tirak.
In what started as an outlet for him to blow some steam off over what he deemed were television stations reluctant to embrace the new HDTV technology, Jack created a community of old timers and newbies, producers and consumers, all who love, or love to hate, Erie media. EMGR was the epitome of the best of Web 2.0.
It was a highlight of my day hearing from old friends, getting scoops, and weighing on the current topics. I would sometimes turn to EMGR a dozen times a day, reading and laughing and being incredulous. There were times I’d take almost an hour crafting a well-honed comment; I didn’t want to sound stupid in front of my fellow communicators! It was a great resource and pastime.
I’ve sorely missed EMGR and Jack’s passion for excellence and creativity. Since his passing I really have missed his final triumphant work that really made my day often.
I think Erie has such a rich media history and story. The personalities in traditional and now new media are interesting and passionate about their craft. The pace of change in technology and the business realities all point to a need for a place where we can encourage and challenge and strengthen each other. Erie needs a media blog!
That’s why I’ve begun The Press and Tower.
I wouldn’t think to try to take Jack’s place. He was so well-connected and networked with an amazingly successful track record over decades. His work stands alone.
What I hope will help this undertaking is my passion for all things media: traditional and new, and my love for writing. I’ll draw on my years in broadcasting in Erie and out of town; along with my current perspective as a media consumer and sometimes advertiser.
I hope to emulate some of the features of EMGR like the weekly poll and the open discussion forum which I’m calling “Deep Background.” I’m looking to add some media elements like a podcast and hopefully a monthly video interview with the top professionals in Erie media.
I know that this project is a lot for a guy like me, raising three kids with a full-time job, to try to pull off, so that’s why I’d love to work with a few folks who would enjoy contributing to the blog on regular basis. Please contact me at joel@nataliemedia.com if you are interested. Even if you can’t commit to a regular feature, please visit and comment often. Your participation will determine The Press and Tower’s success.
Finally, I want to send warm wishes and prayers to Jack Tirak’s family who I’m sure continue to cope with his loss. He was a great guy and we miss him.
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Welcome, Joel! I can’t think of a better person to continue Jack’s legacy, and to serve as a moderator for civil discussion of important local media issues and national trends.
aj
Thanks for stepping up and taking on the challenge!
Joel, Jack was continually amazed and tickled by the involvement in his blog by so many people. I’m sure he would be happy to know you have picked up the mantle. I wish you great success with it.
David
Way to go, Bigguy! I know that we all miss Jack and EMGR, and really appreciate your effort. I’ll try not to be too sarcastic and snarky, but you know me!
Joel:
Best of luck with the new venture. You truly have big shoes to fill — but I suspect you’ll create a venue here that would make Jack proud.
Best wishes on your new venture. Somewhere in Heaven Jack is looking down upon this new venture and smiling.
Good Luck!
Thanks for stepping up to the plate so we can get our Erie Media fix! Best of luck Joel!
Joel,
Great idea! I’ve missed Jack’s blog and you’re just the guy to step-up to the plate for this. Looking forward to it
I’m so glad you decided to do this. I would be considered somewhat a newbie to media, Jack was a mentor to me and I miss him and his advice dearly. Looking foward to lurking, laughing and maybe a little posting on your site.
You don’t have big shoes to fill… just bring us a new pair of shoes. I’m sure Jack would be happy to have you continuing the dialogue. God’s best to your efforts!
Hey Joel,
Good luck on the new blog.
Your passion for media & Erie is obvious & will fuel you.
Peace,
Ange
Thanks for doing this.
I really enjoyed Jack’s site, and am now looking forward to your new venture. Recently, when 35 went HD I got excited and went directly to EMGR only to see and read the message from Jack’s family for the 100th time. Good luck, and thanks again.
Best of luck Joel!
Congrats Joel and thank you for providing this outlet.
Now…let’s get busy.
I want to first start by saying that I think WJET does a fine job with the Labor Day Telethon. But…in recent years, the production value of this Labor Day epic has dwindled. Gone are the days of a “live” remote site other than the Telethon set (this year at the Ambassador Hotel). Also gone are the locally produced video essays on kids, their families, summer camp and the countless local efforts thoughout the year to raise money. Each local break should include a feature plus other JET staffers from locations across the region. I suppose keeping the “live” trucks on standby in case of a two-car crash on Peach is more journalistically responsible in some eyes.
I strongly believe that assigning a producer months in advance and providing resources for the effort would bode well for WJET.
I hope that I am wrong in assuming that like local news, the mantra has become, “do more with less”.
Joel,
Thanks for picking up the ball and giving us another opportunity to comment on Erie media. Nice looking website, too. Good luck.
Joel – I just found out about your site over at the AVS site this morning and I am thrilled to see a new site devoted exclusively to Erie Media. Congrats and best of luck with The Press and Tower. (Very clever name.)
All all have said, thanks. This site is much needed.
Thanks Joel…Good luck w/the blog. I shall be a frequent visitor.
Joel:
I have to say I only read Erie-Media-Go-Round a few times, but was very impressed..Best of luck to you. In the nest few days, I’ll give you a mention and a link on my Cleveland Vintage Media Blog..Take care..
I truly have missed a daily dose of chatter about the media in Erie and nearby. While nobody could ever replace Jack’s mission, a blog like this is needed to keep local media on their toes.
Already added to my favorites!
I look forward to your blog on Erie media! Lot’s to talk about and chew on… especially with Citadel being swallowed by Cumulus. Hopefully all their heads aren’t in the clouds too. Jack would love you continuing this effort!