The Press Box, presented by the Genesee Brew House, airing September 29/30, 2018. Hosted by Bill Pucko, with guests Pat Duffy (WCMF Breakroom), Paul Gotham (Pickin’ Splinters) and Don Stevens – the voice of the Rochester Americans.
Don first appeared on the Press Box in October of 2015, then to talk, in part, about the Amerks 60th Anniversary. Don has been the voice of the team for almost 35 years, so, yeah, he knows a little about the history of the team.
Mike Catalana is ‘on-assignment’ this week, so filling his chair on the panel is Paul Gotham. A semi-regular here, and weekly contributor to the Vision High School Sports Beat – Paul was last on the #PBOX on July 21.
Our opening segment previews the upcoming hockey season, specifically in regards to the Sabres and Amerks. Don’s optimistic about the season, the Sabres have a lot of talent, and will need to stash some quality players in Rochester. Prior to the start of the show, Don was speaking with great enthusiasm about the upcoming changes to the Blue Cross Arena – and there’s more on that later in the show (foreshadowing alert!)
Next up, we look at the Bills, and the amazing upset over the Minnesota Vikings. Remember what our panel said? It was a 17-point spread, and only Bill Pucko ‘thought’ the Bills had a chance. (He may actually have just been contrarian for the sake of the show). Now, after that huge win, comes a trip to Green Bay… what did everyone think?
Our Pick ‘Em contest standing after 3 weeks-
Last week’s guest, Dan Moriarty, went 1-1 for the week. So, technically the 4th panelists are a combined 2 – 4. This week, although not on the show, Mike Catalana did supply his picks – he took the Bills with points, and the Eagles to beat the Titans.
Like it or Not begins with a discussion of the City of Rochester School District and Section V working together to try and prevent fighting in the stands, as seen at Marina Auto Stadium. Paul Gotham is our resident high school expert, and he was actually on his way to the East vs Wilson football game when the game was postponed. It’s good to see steps being taking to try to make things better, as the buzz surrounding City Football in the Roc has been one of the best stories of the fall season.
Next, the talk, as it so often does, turns to Tiger Woods. Don, who is anything but an avid golf watcher, was glued to the set for the PGA Championship, and Tiger’s Terrific Turnaround.
Don starts Unfinished Business with a look at the Pegulas and the Blue Cross Arena. Improvements to the facility are already underway, and Don sees great things ahead. Could it revitalize that area of downtown, the way Key Bank Arena and it’s surrounding area in Buffalo has? Time will tell…
Paul is next, and he is also talking about the Blue Cross Arena, and in particular, the Brick City Homecoming game for RIT. The Tigers host Colgate on Saturday October 20th at the BCA, and it’s great chance to support the only Division 1 sports program in Rochester. I’ve been to a few of the games, and it’s a great scene, not to mention the free t-shirts.
Pat is next… and Pat has a personal apology to make. No, not to every one he has ever offended, this is only a 30 minute show. No, this apology is to one person. A huge Bills fan. Someone who didn’t lose faith. Her name was June. And now Pat has changed his tune…
That’s the show for this week. Thanks to Don for joining us again, and we hope to have him on again soon. Thanks also to Paul Gotham for filling in this week. Don’t forget to check out Pickin’ Splinters.
Here’s a link to this week’s full episode – check it out, and leave us a comment or follow @TheRocPressBox on twitter to send a comment.
Tune in to the Press Box every Sunday – we are now on the CW Rochester for the fall, same day- Sunday, and time- 10:30am, and check local listings for other airings. You can always catch the latest episodes on the Classy Wolf Media youtube page, which you should definitely subscribe to.
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