Thank you, Webster, from Julia, Lily and Penny!

14 May

You might remember a few weeks ago I wrote about an ambitious Bronze Award project that three young Webster Girl Scouts were working on.

Junior Scouts Julia Meyers, Lily Pettit and Penny Patterson from Troop 60344, all fifth graders from Klem North Elementary School, were collecting games, puzzles, children’s books, colored pencils, crayons, markers and craft kits for children in need. The donations would then be sorted, organized and donated to Family Promise, a Rochester-based organization which assists families at risk of homelessness.

To promote the month-long project, the young ladies posted announcements online, designed flyers to hang around town, and arranged for the Webster School District to send a notice home to all of the district’s families. Finally, they secured several local agencies to serve as host sites for collection boxes. Once everything was in place, they could only wait, hoping people would notice, and their efforts would result in at least a few donations.

The Webster community did more than notice; they responded with overwhelming generosity.

Donations immediately started pouring in, filling the collection bins many times over. Wish lists they’d posted on Amazon for bags, games, activity books, puzzles, crafts, crayons and markers were promptly filled. Several people emailed directly, asking how they could help. Neighbors dropped items off at the house, school friends handed over even more. By the end of April, the young Scouts had collected an estimated 1,500 or more items (actually, they kind of lost count). About a week later, they trucked them all over to the Gathering Place Rochester, where 30 or so family members, neighbors and friends helped them pack 151 “kid kits” for children in need.

Julia, Lily and Penny are thrilled with their project’s success, and know that it wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of the Webster community. And for that support, they want to send out a HUGE thank you.

“We never thought that it would go as well as it did,” Lily said, to which Penny added, “I didn’t think we were going to have that much stuff. At the most we thought we’d have 500 items.”

“We really appreciate everyone who donated, filled the Amazon list, and came to the Gathering Place event,” Julia said. Not to mention the businesses that provided space for the donation bins, and the Gathering Place for hosting the sorting and organizing session. It was truly a community effort, driven in large part by countless anonymous donors.

“That’s why we’re doing this community thank you, so we can thank them all.”

Here’s a great video from the Gathering Place event which shows the amazing number of donations received (thank you Emily P. for the video!):

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(posted 5/14/2026)

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The Tale of the Wandering Box Spring

13 May

I’ve recently been taking a nostalgic look through all of the blogs I’ve written in the (almost) past 20 years since I began this blogging journey. I naively have been thinking that I should collect some of them into a book for my kids to read after I’m gone.

Well, I don’t know about them, but I’ve really been enjoying revisiting them, and some of them still make me laugh out loud (is it OK to laugh at your own writing?) Every once in a while I come across one which I think you all might also enjoy reading. Some of you might recognize these “oldies but goodies,” but I’ve gained so many new readers in the past few years, for most of you they’ll be brand new.

This has always been one of my favorites, drawn from my frequent walks along the bike path adjacent to Rt. 104 in the village. I originally posted it four years ago this week.

The Tale of the Wandering Box Spring

I bring you a short modern fairy tale today about loss, but ultimate redemption.

Our story begins last summer, when a lone box spring appeared in the wooded area along the pleasantly shady and tree-lined path known to local residents as the Trail of Bike. It rested comfortably along the north side of the Trail, only several feet from where cyclists and walkers would pass. It probably would have found its way deeper into the brush had a metal chain-link obstruction not halted its progress.

Clearly, the poor box spring had lost its way ‘twixt the small brick village nearby and Ye Olde Dumpstre.

One day, as I took a stroll along the Trail of Bike, I saw that some simple traveler (or perhaps a Box Spring Fairy?) had taken pity and extracted the wayward box from the wooded area, placing it on the grassy yard near the small village’s courts of tennis. Surely someone would notice it lying there and return it to its home — or at least help it finally find Ye Olde Dumpstre.

Alas, the poor box lay there through the rest of the summer, through the cold winds of autumn and blustery snows of winter, still lost and alone. And three weeks ago, as the spring flowers returned to the trees, it lay there still, filled with water from the melting snows.

One day, the Box Spring Fairy apparently took note, pushing it closer yet to the the courts of tennis. Perhaps finally some administrator from the small village would see it and take pity.

Huzzah! It did get moved one day! The laborers assigned to trim the grassy yard moved it aside … then moved it back.

Last week, the Box Spring Fairy tried once again, flipping the box head over heels several times until it came to rest standing against the fence surrounding the courts of tennis.

Today, it is gone. A happy ending.

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(posted 5/13/2026)

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What do you love about the Webster library?

12 May

Are you one of those people who head to the Webster Public Library once or (several) times a week to borrow oodles of books? Do you go to the informative talks and travelogues? Are you and your kids regular attendees at family events and story hours? And if so, do you have any suggestions as to how the library folks can make these services even better?

The library would like to know your thoughts. Through August 1, they’re asking library patrons to fill out a quick survey about library spaces and services. Your answers will help them figure out which spaces and services people are really happy with right now, and which ones might need improvement. Basically, you’re going to help them decide how best to spend their limited funds.

It’s a really quick survey, and it asks questions like, “Rank the spaces you use most often” (such as community room, computer area, teen lounge), and “Rank the services you use most often” (such as borrowing books, using Libby, events for teens). It takes about five minutes, and aside from asking your gender and age for statistical purposes, you can fill it out anonymously.

BUT if you would like a chance to win a library swag bag, make sure to include your email address at the end.

There are a few ways you can access the form. First, try this Microsoft form. But if that doesn’t work on your browser, click through to the library webpage here, where you’ll find a link which should work. The survey will be available through August 1.

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email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

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(posted 5/12/2026)

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An update from our One Webster SparX team

10 May

Another SparX season is in the books! The 2026 competition season has officially ended, and our One Webster team made our town proud once again through their skill, teamwork, problem-solving, and sportsmanship.

Here’s a great round-up of the season from Tricia Isham, one of the team’s parent mentors:

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Each January, FIRST® Robotics Competition presents high school teams with a new engineering challenge that requires the design, programming, and construction of industrial-sized robots for alliance-based competitive play. Guided by mentors throughout the season, students develop technical, engineering, and problem-solving skills while strengthening teamwork, leadership, and communication abilities. In addition to competition, teams pursue fundraising efforts, engage in community outreach, and promote broader appreciation for STEM education.

Webster Schroeder and Thomas High Schools Team 1126 SparX Robotics, founded in the 2002-2003 competition year, continues to build on over two decades of innovation and competitive excellence. With 24 competition seasons under our belt, we have participated in 52 events and earned 30 awards, an achievement that reflects the dedication, resilience, and growth of our team year after year.

Our 2026 season began at the Finger Lakes Regional, held March 11–14 at the Gordon Field House at RIT during Week 2 of competition. Competing against 55 teams, SparX Robotics finished with a strong 7-3-0 record in qualification matches, ranking 14th overall. The team advanced into the double elimination bracket and battled through nine matches before being eliminated in Round 4. Notably, the team maintained a clean record with zero disqualifications, demonstrating both strong performance and disciplined play.

Like many teams competing early in the season, we took the opportunity between events to significantly improve our robot. This effort resulted in a rebuilt machine we named “Reboot,” reflecting both the technical upgrades and the renewed momentum of our team.

That work paid off at the New York Tech Valley Regional, held April 14–18 at MVP Arena in Albany during Week 7, an event that hosted around 60 teams. Competing with “Reboot,” SparX Robotics once again delivered a strong performance, finishing qualification matches with an 8-3-0 record and earning the 14th seed. The team advanced deep into the double elimination bracket, competing in eight playoff matches before being eliminated just prior to the final rounds. Throughout the competition, SparX maintained a perfect record of zero disqualifications.

One of our playoff matches can be viewed here: https://frc-events.firstinspires.org/2026/NYTR/playoffs/12

Across both competitions, SparX Robotics demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and steady growth. The transition to “Reboot” exemplifies our team’s ability to learn quickly, iterate effectively, and return stronger—qualities that will continue to drive our success in future seasons.If you want to get involved as a mentor or sponsor, or donate to our team (robots can cost $20,000 or more to build), or if you know of a Webster Central High School student who would like to join the team, please contact david_schenk@webstercsd.org or keith_karnisky@webstercsd.org. If your student wants to join, we can find a spot for them and their interests!

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email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

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(posted 5/10/2026)

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Wreaths Across America named Webster Chamber Business of the Month

9 May

Every month at the Webster Chamber of Commerce‘s breakfast meeting, one of the member businesses is singled out as “Business of the Month.” This special recognition honors member businesses for their significant contributions to the Webster community, community involvement, and active participation in Chamber events.

I always enjoy finding out who’s chosen every month, and I’m pleased to highlight each business in my blog. But May’s honoree means more to me than most, because I consider the Wreaths Across America one of Webster’s most outstanding non-profit organizations, and the force behind it all — Cherie Wood — a good friend.

Here’s what Dan Dunn, from the Chamber of Commerce’s Events and Honors Committee, read as he presented the award:

Today’s business of the month is a little different, but in the best possible way. We’re recognizing Wreaths Across America — Webster, New York, an organization that reminds us what service to a community really looks like.

Wreaths Across America started back in 1992 with a simple idea: honor and remember our veterans. Here in Webster, that mission took root in 2021 thanks to Cherie Wood, who wanted to honor her father’s service in World War II. What started with 600 wreaths at one cemetery has grown into honoring 2,500 fallen veterans across five Webster cemeteries. That doesn’t happen by accident; that happens because someone refuses to let people be forgotten.

The message is powerful: We die twice — once when we pass, and again when our name is spoken for the last time, Every wreath placed means a name is said out loud. Someone is remembered. That matters. And here’s what really stands out: this is entirely community-driven. No government funding,. Every wreath is sponsored by individuals and businesses, year after year. That’s 2,500 acts of generosity, every single year.

Cherie may call herself a volunteer, but she’s leading something much bigger. She supports active-duty families, works with Gold Star families, helps veterans find resources, and stands in honor at services, making sure families know their loved ones will never be forgotten. Then there’s Wreath Day. After the ceremony, up to 1,000 people from our community come out to place wreaths, It’s one of those moments that reminds you what a community can be when people show up for something bigger than themselves.

Cherie is also involved with … ROC Veterans, the Webster Garlic Fest, the town’s 250th celebration, and even serves as Historian for Webster Union Cemetery. She’s not just preserving history — she’s actively shaping it.

One moment says it all: a Vietnam veteran told her last year that placing a wreath was the first time in 60 years that he felt proud of his service. Think about that for a second. That’s the impact.

So today, we’re not just recognizing an organization. We’re recognizing purpose, commitment, and what it looks like to truly give back.

When Dan finished the presentation, every single business person in the room stood to give Cherie Wood a standing ovation. I have never seen that happen before.

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(posted 5/9/2026)

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The Village’s first Wine Walk of the summer is next weekend

8 May

The first Village of Webster Wine (and Food) Walk for 2026 is coming up fast. It’s scheduled for Saturday May 16 from 4 to 7:00 p.m.

This is always a great time to get together with friends and stroll the streets of the Village of Webster, popping into businesses and sampling so. much. wine. and lots of great snacks. Tickets are $23.18 (including the Eventbrite fee) and are available online only. You’ll need to register ahead of time (click here), and you’ll be provided with a digital ticket which you can present on your phone or print.

This event always sells out, so if you think you want to attend get your tickets soon.

Event check-in will be at Annette’s Restaurant,  (27 West Main St.). PLEASE have your ticket ready and make sure you have your ID, because you will not be allowed to proceed without showing it. At check-in, you’ll receive your souvenir wine glass and a map of the stops. From there, feel free to start wherever you’d like.

The Wine Walks are brought to you by the Webster Business Improvement District (BID). They haven’t published a preview of this stops yet, but you can check the website for updates.

Remember, participants MUST be 21+ and you MUST have your ID.

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(posted 5/8/2026)

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Calling all 1976 R.L. Thomas grads!

7 May
A few photos from the 30th reunion in 2006

Webster’s R.L. Thomas High School Class of 1976 has announced plans for their 50th reunion, and the organizing committee could use some help tracking down some of their classmates.

The reunion has been scheduled for the weekend of September 18 to 20, 2026, featuring three days of events including morning and evening activities, informal gatherings, a school tour, and more.

Here are the highlights:

  • Friday, September 18: 
    • The celebration kicks off with an informal gathering of R.L.  Thomas and H.W. Schroeder Class of 1976 graduates at 7:30 p.m. at Flaherty’s Three  Flags Restaurant, 1200 Bay Rd. (owned by classmate Terry Flaherty). 
  • Saturday, September 19:
    • Continental breakfast at 9:30 a.m. followed by a walk through the halls of Webster Thomas High School (formerly R.L. Thomas), a chance to revisit old memories and see how the school has changed over the last 50 years. 
    • At 7:30 p.m. that evening, plans are for a potential Fireworks Cruise on the Erie Canal or an informal gathering at the White House at Webster Park. More details to follow. 
  • Sunday, September 20:  
    • From 3 to 9 p.m., the formal R.L. Thomas 50th Reunion will occur at  the Damascus Shrine Center, 979 Bay Road, Webster. Catered by Charlie’s Restaurant (owned by classmate Jeff Reidel), the picnic will feature classic favorites including hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, salads, and  desserts.  Soft drinks will be provided, and a cash bar will be available. Music will be provided by classmate Jeff Engbrecht, who will DJ all our favorites from the  1960s and 1970s. The event will also include a photo booth and a full  group photo.

The first round of official invitations will be sent out in the next few weeks to everyone the committee has been able to locate to date. But there’s a handful of classmates they don’t know about. If you can provide any contact information for any of the following please email Cathy Miles Slocum at cslocum50@gmail.com: 

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(posted 5/7/2026)

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Pittman and Piwko are this year’s Oak Tree Award winners

6 May

Hot on the heels of yesterday’s blog about Webster Schroeder’s NYC Bound contestants, here’s more great news from our school district.

Congratulations to Greg Pittman and Meghann Piwko, this year’s recipients of the prestigious Oak Tree Award, recognizing outstanding excellence and dedication in teaching.

Piwko, the secondary level honoree, is a sixth-grade literacy teacher at Spry Middle School. She was nominated by both a former student and a building colleague. She’s recognized for radiating genuine positivity and defining the heart of her school through her exemplary dedication to her students, their families, and the district.

Highlighting her profound influence, nominators wrote that “Mrs. Piwko gracefully wears many hats, but I have always found her to be an invested, approachable, and knowledgeable educator.” They observed that “she creates an environment where students feel seen, safe, and truly ready to learn,” emphasizing that “she is an educator who understands that while test scores measure progress, it is her devotion to the human being behind the desk that truly changes lives.” Her impact extends into the community as well; as one nominator pointed out, “she organized the 9/11 ceremony by choosing students to read speeches in order to increase awareness of what happened that day and to honor local first responders for their contributions to our community.”

Pittman, the elementary level honoree, is a fourth-grade teacher at Schlegel Elementary School. Known for his collaborative spirit and proven leadership, he is celebrated for his commitment to equity and student growth. Colleagues and nominators (including two of his students’ parents) praised his work, writing that “the lasting impact of his teaching is evident in the excitement and enthusiasm former students show when they see him.” They described him as “an extraordinary educator who makes learning fun and engaging for his students,” adding that “he truly goes above and beyond in creating a positive rapport with his students and families.” (He’s pictured here with his wife Debbie.)

On April 24, representatives from the Webster Teachers Association (WTA) and the Webster Central PTSA, joined by school and district administrators, surprised Pittman and Piwko in their classrooms to share the exciting news. During the surprise visits, the winners were presented with their awards, flowers, and a cookie cake to celebrate their achievements. Both educators will be officially recognized and presented with their plaques at the upcoming Board of Education meeting on May 5.

The Oak Tree Award is presented annually by the WTA and the Webster Central PTSA as a way to acknowledge excellence in teaching in the district at the elementary and secondary levels. This year’s Oak Tree Committee received 60 nominations submitted by students, parents of current and former students, and education colleagues. All of the nominees demonstrated outstanding excellence in teaching and showed unwavering dedication to supporting students in achieving their full potential. In addition, they consistently contributed to their local communities and the Webster CSD. Congratulations to Pittman, Piwko and all of the nominees.

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(posted 5/6/2026)

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Webster Schroeder recognized for on-stage excellence

5 May
Brodie Walrath
Lilah Kastrinos
Rory Goodwin

A hearty congratulations to three Webster Schroeder students who have been recognized for excellence on the stage.

Brodie Walrath, Lilah Kastrinos and Rory Goodwin were all recently nominated for “NYC Bound,” a competition to choose two students to represent Rochester at the prestigious Jimmy Awards in New York City. The three exceptional young actors were recognized for their outstanding performances in Webster Schroeder’s production of On the Town in February.

The Rochester Broadway Theatre League’s (RBTL) Stars of Tomorrow evaluators reviewed more than 300 individual roles this year, performed by high school students in musicals throughout the region. Nearly 200 of those students chose to be considered for the NYC Bound track. To qualify, students had to perform an eligible lead role and be judged separately from their school’s overall production. From that massive talent pool, evaluators culled the nominees down to just 40 exceptional young musical performers, including our very own Webster Schroeder stars.

The community has two upcoming opportunities to celebrate and support these talented students:

  • May 8 – Stars of Tomorrow Gala: Often described as the “Tony Awards for high school theater,” this ticketed gala brings together all 200 performers and cast members to celebrate participating local students. The Webster Schroeder On The Town cast is one of 47 schools that will perform a selection from their musical on the RBTL Auditorium Theatre stage.
  • May 21 – NYC Bound Competition: The 40 top nominees will compete to represent Rochester at the Jimmy Awards, with the two winners announced at the close of the evening. This event is free and open to the public.

While I didn’t get to see the final production of On the Town, I did crash one of the dress rehearsals, so I can rightfully say that I’m not surprised that these three were recognized. (You can read my blog about that experience here.) It’s been a pleasure watching them grow as actors through their high school careers. And in the case of Rory, who’s just a sophomore, I look forward to seeing him grow even more in future productions.

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(posted 5/5/2026)

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

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May History Bit: Historic Preservation Month

4 May

May is a pretty neat month. After a cold, gray winter, we’re finally getting some warm temperatures, sunshine and flowers. But May is particularly special for the folks at the Webster Museum, who are commemorating National Historic Preservation Month, a time to swap out old exhibits for new, and to offer some special programs.

During Historic Preservation Month, the museum honors Webster’s architectural legacy and the oral traditions that illuminate our shared past. A highlight of this month is the presentation of commemorative plaques, recognizing excellence in the preservation of historic residences, outbuildings, and public landmarks.

The plaque program grew out of a survey of historic properties which a small group of museum volunteers tackled more than 20 years ago. They were especially looking for homes built before 1902 which answered the question, “Would the original owners recognize the property?” In the years since the program began, the museum has presented more than 80 plaques to the Webster properties which have maintained their historical integrity. They’re kind of a thank you from the Town of Webster and the Webster Museum for maintaining the integrity of the property.

Later this month, the museum’s Historic Properties Committee will present this year’s plaque to the home at 121 East Main St. in the Village of Webster (at the corner of Dunning). The majestic American Foursquare-style home was built in 1913 by Dr. William Stanton, and several reminders of his early practice can still be seen inside, including the waiting room, operating room and the basement laboratory. For the past three generations, the Swingly family has lived in the home and maintained its original character. They recently decided to sell the architectural gem, however, which will now be cared for by its new owners, Cory and Christy Boyer.

So this month, take the scenic route. As you travel through our town and village, take a moment to notice the historic landmarks that define our everyday landscape. And if you’d really like to learn more about Webster’s fascinating history, stop by the Webster Museum. It’s located at 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster. It’s open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

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email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

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(posted 5/4/2026)

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