In Buffalo, it’s important to look ahead, envision the future, build to improve etc. Very true, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look back at our rich and somewhat hilarious media history. Thank goodness for StaffAnnouncer.com, a Buffalo website that allows you to peruse Buffalo’s classic media history, either by embedding video and sound or including links to other sites that feature some awesome Buffalo memories. It’s not the prettiest or most technologically advanced site on the internet, but you’ll be fine.
Here are some of my personal favorite features:
“Buffalo’s Anchorman” –So much like the Will Ferrell movie, it’s scary. Obviously the entire country was covered in pastel blues and brown ties, but one could honestly argue that Anchorman set designers looked at old Buffalo news tapes for inspiration.
“The Milt Ellis Jukebox”–As a huge Sabres fan, it’s cool to hear a classic Aud PA man. I’m not sure I remember his work too well–I can’t help but enjoy it. It’s funny how we never think of the person who announced penalties, goals, the last minute in the period, etc. Definitely hockey’s unsung heroes.
Old School Buffalo Postcards–I really enjoy history, and postcards are a great way to commemorate famous businesses and other destinations in Buffalo. Some of the examples even have writing on them, including a strange reference to how employees at Lackawanna Steel need Gold Medal Flour to energize them for their grueling shifts.
WBEN Tapes–The website’s creator allegedly “dumpster-dived” for these tapes when WBEN was cleaned out in 1995. Lots of great sports clips from 1973, including some cool Van Miller stuff at Braves games.
There’s seriously a boatload more to check out on that site. As a Buffalo lover, feel free to get lost in some cool history.
(Cover photo left to right: Mike Robitaille, Jim Lorentz, Rick Jeanneret, Ted Darling.)