One of our biggest goals with GlobalErie is to provide a platform for writers and thinkers to share their opinions and feelings with others who care about Erie.

After more than a year online, we’ve accomplished that goal — offering a free venue to more than a dozen writers and podcasters.

Today, I’m pleased to announce the arrival of Pat Sweny to the GlobalErie Network. Pat, an Erie native, is a senior at the University of Pittsburgh and wants to return to Erie after graduation.

His blog, Black Holes and Revelations, will chronicle his plight — and discuss what Erie needs to do to allow Sweny and others like him to start their adult lives in their hometown.

“I feel fairly ingrained with Erie. My entire family has pretty much lived here for most of four generations,” he says. “Yet, it is extremely difficult for me right now as I move toward my future career. As you have mentioned, I found that Erie lacks many amenities that young professionals are looking for. It has only been recently that I have seen this problem as my job search has begun.”

Sweny’s arrival coincides with the temporary departure of Ashley Weber from our blogroll. As many of you know, Ashley has been the author of one of our most popular blogs, Green Apple.

For professional reasons, Ashley is taking a break — but we hope to have her back in the fold again soon.

All of this leads me to my final point. We’d love to get some new voices involved.

As you’ll notice, our blogroll is looking a lot like the roster of former Presidents. I’d love to get some diverse faces and voices to join the network.

If you’re interested in joining the GlobalErie family, please let me know.