The WNY Rocks! Podcast

In this episode of the Western New York Rocks podcast, host Michael Kenneth interviews the members of Songbirds, a Western New York tribute band dedicated to recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac. The conversation explores the band's formation, their unique approach to performances, and the dedication they put into authentically capturing the essence of Fleetwood Mac's music. The band members share insights into their backgrounds, the challenges of embodying their respective roles, and the meticulous attention to detail that goes into their performances. They also discuss the significance of tribute bands in preserving the legacy of iconic musicians, especially as original members age or pass away.Chapters00:00 The Pressure of Authenticity in Tribute Bands07:15 The Passion for Research and Knowledge10:25 Trivia and Knowledge of Fleetwood Mac11:38 Recreating the Fleetwood Mac Sound17:00 The Commitment to Live Performance25:01 Performing 'Dreams' and Tour Recreation27:02 The Reunion and Its Impact30:39 Halloween Shows: A Unique Experience33:31 Emotional Connections to Fleetwood Mac Songs36:10 Performing for Diverse Audiences38:14 The Resurgence of Fleetwood Mac Among Youth40:02 The Chemistry of Songwriting in Fleetwood Mac43:33 The Drama Behind the Music49:20 Personal Connections to Songs53:08 The Emotional Release of Performance54:05 The Importance of Authenticity in Music57:29 Sustaining a Tribute Band: Challenges and Triumphs61:28 Support Systems: Balancing Personal Lives and Music66:07 The Role of Significant Others in a Band's Success68:12 The Love for Music and Each Other70:15 Engaging with Fleetwood Mac: Tribute Band Aspirations76:37 The Art of Thrifting and Costume Design79:52 Fleetwood Mac Fashion and Iconic Moments80:48 Cherished Memories and Personal Connections82:41 Shout Outs and Community Support86:39 Podcasting Journey and Future Plans

On this week's episode Michael Kenneth is joined by author David Kinney, who wrote the true crime book, 'Mobbed Up Batavia', The true Story of How a Series of Cold-Blooded Killings Shattered a Small American Town. In the 1930's, a series of cold and calculated killings shattered the quiet routine of Batavia, New York.  What appeared to be isolated acts of violence soon revealed a deliberate and precise pattern that is impossible to ignore.  At the center of it all were Batavia's bookmakers.  Men who had built their own criminal network and, for a time, thrived outside the reach of the law and larger criminal organizations.  We also discuss how David came to write the book, the research that went into his writing, and what he learned as a result of the writing of 'Mobbed Up Batavia.'

SummaryIn this episode of the Western New York Rocks podcast, host Michael Kenneth speaks with Shelly Wolansky, owner of Mrs. Green's Cannery, about her journey into the legalized marijuana business in New York. The conversation explores the cultural shift surrounding cannabis, the challenges of navigating the licensing process, and the stigma that still exists around marijuana use. Shelly shares her personal experiences, the struggles of starting a business in a newly legalized industry, and the support she received from the community. The episode highlights the complexities of running a cannabis dispensary and the evolving perceptions of marijuana in society. In this episode, the hosts discuss the journey of women in the cannabis industry, focusing on Shelly's experience as a 100% women-owned business owner. They explore the challenges and triumphs of opening a legal cannabis dispensary, including the importance of support and collaboration. The conversation transitions into a tour of Mrs. Green's Cannery, showcasing the variety of cannabis products available and the educational aspects of cannabis consumption. The hosts delve into the science behind edibles versus smoking, THC levels, and the significance of encouraging women to pursue careers in cannabis education. In this episode of The WNY Rocks! Podcast, hosts Shelly Wolanski and Chris Van Dusen discuss the multifaceted opportunities within the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of community perception and the challenges faced by small businesses in a saturated market. They address the stigma surrounding cannabis use, the legal landscape in New York, and the impact of corporate competition on local dispensaries. The conversation highlights their commitment to changing perceptions about cannabis and their vision for the future of their business, Mrs. Green's Cannery.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Legalized Marijuana Business03:36 Shelly's Journey into Cannabis11:19 Navigating the Licensing Process17:04 Challenges and Stigmas in the Industry23:33 The Impact of Legalization on Business30:09 Reflections on Success and Community Support31:05 Empowering Women in the Cannabis Industry35:13 A Tour of Mrs. Green's Cannery39:30 Understanding Cannabis Products44:43 The Science of Edibles vs. Smoking51:57 Navigating THC Levels and Strains60:40 Encouraging Women in Cannabis Education61:40 Opportunities Beyond Growing in Cannabis64:42 Changing Perceptions: The Community Impact of Cannabis67:58 Addressing Addiction and Stigma in Cannabis Use71:51 Navigating the Legal Landscape of Cannabis75:42 Challenges and Competition in the Cannabis Market79:57 The Future of Mrs. Green's Cannery

On this episode we talk with Ray Eighmey (bassist), and Mark Fuerbacher (guitars) of the Christian hard rock band Remedy Three.  We talk about they're shared faith, brotherhood, and the songs behind their debut EP, 'Remedy Three, What's Happened to Me?'We talk about all this and more on this weeks WNY Rocks! Podcast - Episode 5 - Remedy Three 'A Band of Brothers'Show Notes:All songs used on Episode 8 were written, and produced by Remedy Three from the EP, titled Remedy Three, What's Happened to Me?  The songs used on this episode were used with exclusive expressed permission from Remedy ThreeSongs on this weeks episode from the EP include:Tears in a Bottle Further1C924Remedy Three is:Ray Eighmey - BassMark Fuerbacher - GuitarRon Wickings - VocalsJohn Falkowski - DrumsFollow Remedy Three at remedythree.com and on facebook.com/remedythreeChapters00:00 Faith and Music: The Spiritual Connection01:57 The Journey of Remedy Three: Formation and Growth06:48 The Meaning Behind the Name: Remedy Three12:06 Musical Identity: Blending Genres and Messages18:16 Community Impact: Giving Back Through Music21:08 Songwriting Process: Collaboration and Creativity31:29 The Art of Songwriting35:20 Collaborative Creativity in Music37:44 Exploring Themes of Addiction in Music42:52 The Power of Music and Personal Connection49:48 Faith and Music: A Personal Journey60:58 Life Experiences Shaping Faith63:26 Life-Changing Experiences and Faith Awakening68:40 The Journey of Music Creation72:32 Recording Techniques and Collaboration80:03 The Importance of Physical Media85:06 Influences and Inspirations in Music91:08 Band Dynamics and Future Plans

An interview with Jay Peck, Western New York Flyfishing Guide on the Salmon River & Tributaries of Western New York.  We discuss Fall Flyfishing for Salmon, Big Browns & Steelhead.  Jay shares 40 years of his experience guiding & Flyfishing the rivers & tributaries of Lake Ontario, and the Western New York region. We also discuss the  'epic'  Salmon run of 2026 on the Salmon River in Pulaski, New York.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Salmon Run06:18 Fishing Techniques and Challenges10:51 Species of Salmon in Western New York13:31 Ideal Conditions for Salmon Runs16:33 Timing for Brown Trout and Steelhead18:07 Crowds and Fishing Pressure22:01 International Interest in Western New York Fishing25:14 Public Access vs. Private Waters26:47 The Impact of Resource Regulations on Fishing28:02 Stocking Programs and Their Effectiveness29:59 Understanding Fish Forage and Population Dynamics31:03 Essential Gear for Salmon Fishing37:16 Choosing the Right Reel and Rod42:04 Line Selection and Leader Setup51:14 Egg Drift Technique for Salmon and Trout52:50 Understanding Indicators in Fishing54:57 The Science of Egg Patterns56:50 Essential Fly Patterns for Salmon Fishing59:56 Nymph Patterns and Their Importance63:10 Choosing Colors for Effective Fishing66:01 Timing and Conditions for Steelhead Fishing68:57 Exploring Local Creeks and Tributaries71:57 Water Management and Its Impact on Fishing74:58 Advice for New Fishermen in Western New York78:30 Choosing the Right Fishing Guide81:08 Understanding Fishing Techniques and Gear82:32 The Thrill of Catching Fish84:04 Conservation and Watershed Management87:07 Public Access and Fishing Regulations90:01 Resources for Fishing in Western New York92:27 Personal Fishing Experiences and Preferences94:29 Future of Fishing and Guiding Services