Accuracy in media is important, so I’m going to start with a confession: I’ve never been able to write “Gratigny” without spelling it out in my head. The story on the front of this paper? As I was checking it, I was going “G-r-a-t-i-g ... g? ...” more times than I care to admit.
Hey, it’s important to get the details right.
One small detail you might be wondering right about now is: who the heck is this guy? Allow me to explain. My name is Erik Petersen, and I am the new editor and publisher of The Miami Laker. I’m taking over for Linda Trischitta, who is stepping down after seven years of outstanding stewardship. She tells me I’m stepping into a great job; I believe her.
A bit more about me? Sure. I come from the mysterious lands of the far northern reaches. Fort Lauderdale, to be precise. I am a local guy, a South Florida native who loves going to Panthers and Marlins games. (I also attend the occasional Dolphins game, although “love” feels a bit strong at the moment.) You can also catch me at the rodeo in Davie.
I lived away for many years, including 11 that I spent as a newspaper journalist in Britain. Once in that role, I was sent to Iraq to spend time with British soldiers in Basra. For another story, I dressed up as a cricket team’s squirrel mascot.
One fun thing about newspapers: you rarely get the same day twice.
I’ve now been back in South Florida for more than a decade; I love what this place is, and what it’s becoming. But I also love its history and where we come from. One of my favorite things about Miami Lakes is how in so many ways, the town wears that history on its sleeve.
This job is my second most important one; in my most important one, that of dad, I’m a big history guy. My 15-year-old daughter is thrilled - thrilled, I tell you - that I’ve never met a historic plaque or site of interest that I didn’t want to stop at and study.
As a History Dad, few things get under my skin more than newcomers talking about how down here, we have no history. I love how, to get to my office, I pass Bull Run Road to turn right on New Barn Road. Something was here before this, and it’s good to remember that.
Community is important, and Miami Lakes is a great community. I believe that local media is an important part of that community. The Laker will celebrate what should be celebrated and ask hard questions when hard questions are required.
As for me, I hope you consider me somebody you can talk to. I want to hear your stories. My name might have “Editor & Publisher” next to it, but this is your newspaper. Call, email or stop me in the street when I’m having lunch. (I’m not hard to find as I have a collection of dad shirts that, erm, lack subtlety. See picture.)
Most of all, I hope you see the value in what we at the Laker do, and continue bringing us into your home.
And lastly, I hope I get many opportunities to reference Red Road. That one, I can spell.
If you’ve got a story tip, a complaint, a historic fun fact, an opinion on who’s got the best pastelitos in town or anything else, please email erik at erikp@miamilaker.com.