Archive | September, 2017

Last minute mailbag reminders

16 Sep

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This morning is the last chance you have to score some awesome deals at the Hope Ministry Garage Sale Fundraiser in Murphy Hall behind Holy Trinity Church, 1460 Ridge Road in Webster. Everything is HALF OFF TODAY, and it runs only from 10 am to noon.

So start your errands early this morning and get out to the sale.

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Last call for the first-ever Webster Beer Walk, which takes place tonight in the village.

The Webster BID is hosting this event by popular demand after the Wine Walks were so well attended. It takes place TONIGHT from 4 to 7 p..m and the weather looks awesome. This is a great chance to visit some businesses you’ve never been in before (or never knew existed) for samples of beers and spirits.

Pub 235 and Salvatore’s will be the hosts on the North Ave side and Artecho, R Salon, beer mugWebster Hots, Burkes, Barry’s, Sweet Wood Barbecue and the Coach will entertain you in the Village center. Just to the West BC’s Chicken Coop, Webster Interiors and Dr. Stan Drabik will welcome you into their business and provide music.

Some of the brands you’ll enjoy include Stoneyard, Laqunitas, Triphammer, Apple Country Spirits, and Brewery Ommegang. Tickets are available at the Coach Sports Forum (our sponsor for the event), for $15 (cash only) or online at www.websterbid.com.

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The Webster Christian School Alumni Dinner is being planned for Saturday October 7 at 5:30 p.m. Alumni from 1980s to 1990s are invited. On Sunday, all attendees are invited to a service at Webster Bible Church at 10:30, which will be followed by a group outing.

The location of the dinner will be determined as soon as organizers have a good idea how many people will be coming. If you’re interested in attending, contact Michelle (DiMora) Ruggieri at ruggieri@frontiernet.net.

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Coming together as one

14 Sep

 

red car

Today, I share a short story about community.

My husband Jack and I were riding along the 104 bike path early Wednesday evening. We were headed east near Five Mile Line Road when we came upon a small car in the ditch. The driver, a 30-ish woman, had swerved to avoid another car which had cut her off, and ended up going off the side of the road. The tracks in the mud indicated her car traveled a good 100 feet or more before it stopped.

Being first on the scene, we immediately parked our bikes and ran to check on the passengers, which also included a young girl and a 3-month old baby.  Everyone was all right, although Mom was understandable pretty shaky. We chatted with the driver and I called 911.

Before we knew it, another three cars had stopped by the side of the road and four more people joined us. Everyone immediately fell into a different role.

One woman knelt down near the driver-side door for what seemed like forever, patiently comforting the driver and eventually convincing her to get out of the car and stand up on the bike path.

One man guided the young girl and her little brother up to the path, while another helped the driver contact her boyfriend to come pick her up.

Jack helped coordinate, I held the baby and kept the kids company on the bike path.

Before long, a young West Webster firefighter showed up. He and the other men worked together to pull the car out of the mud and drive it up to the side of the road. A NYS Trooper who had joined us suggested to the driver that we get her car off the highway while they waited for her boyfriend to arrive. So I slipped into the driver seat and drove the family to Lowe’s.

In the end, everything turned out OK. No one was hurt and the car had only suffered a scratch. The real story here is how caring people are.

Everyone who rushed to help came as strangers, and left as strangers. But for 45 minutes of our lives, we were one community — one family — simply helping someone who needed help.

Because that’s what good people do.

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Webster remembers

12 Sep

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The Village of Webster gathered Monday night to pay honor to the men and women who lost their lives during the horrific events of September 11, 2001. About 100 residents convened in Veterans Memorial Park for the 50-minute ceremony, joined by more than 30 Webster fire fighters and first responders, Village Mayor Darrell Byerts, a handful of other state, town and village representatives, and the Chorus of the Genesee.

Mayor Byerts acted as emcee, sharing the podium with many of those representatives who added their thoughts and personal recollections from the day.  Many of those comments were directed at the ranks of first responders who stood proudly near the edge of the park. And those were the comments I considered most meaningful.

We must never forget what happened that day and the brave people who lost their lives. But it’s also important to appreciate those who still keep up safe every day.

Mayor Byerts was the first to sound that call. He asked us to remember what it was like in the hours and days after 9/11. We were a country united, helping strangers in the street, showing our patriotism by flying flags from every pole we could find. We mourned the loss of 2,977 innocent lives. Among them were 412 emergency workers, including 343 FDNY firefighters.  We publicly thanked them for their efforts.

The same thing happened when Webster suffered the loss of two of our own firefighters at the hand of a madman on December 24, 2012. We came together again as one, and showed how much we love and respect our local firefighters.

But, as Byerts noted, that public outpouring of emotion didn’t last.

“As time passes, memories fade and those appointed to protect us are forgotten,” he said. “The words ‘thank you’ are rarely spoken.”

Syed Ahmed Mustafa, president of Northeast Quadrant Advanced Life Support, further reminded us that “People don’t become heroes because of what they do one day, but because of what they do every day.”

Those are powerful thoughts. What I took from them was this:

We must never forget September 11 and keep those who lost their lives close to our hearts. But one of the best way to honor them is to appreciate those who continue to race to the scene of a horrific accident or run into burning buildings, not knowing what exactly they’re going to find.

Or, by the way, WHO they’re going to find. Because, as Ahmed said, what 9/11 taught us is that “no matter where we work, pray or play, we are all American.”

Here are several more photos from the evening:

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How ’bout we bring the scarecrow contest back?

10 Sep

IMG_20170910_093342790Hubby and I took a bike ride Sunday morning into the village, and stopped by Dunkin’ for coffee. I found this handsome fellow welcoming customers at the side door. (His name tag identified him as “Dave.”)

It made me think about the time not too many years ago when the village hosted a scarecrow contest.  I dug back into my blog archives and the latest reference I found for such an event was in 2013.

According to that blog, both business owners and community groups were invited to create scarecrows, which were then displayed along Main Street (or in front of the appropriate business). Residents could then vote for their favorite, and ballot boxes were placed all over town. First, second and third prizes were awarded.

I kind of liked that contest. It was fun to see all the creative scarecrows, and the decorated the village streets quite nicely for autumn and Halloween.

It would be neat if the village would consider doing that again. (Maybe they already are…?)

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Calling all runners (and walkers)

9 Sep
Runners brick

A trio of Barry’s Runners visits the group’s brick at Jack’s Place on the day of the playground’s grand opening.

I have blogged and column-ed several times in the past about Barry’s Runners. We are a bunch of men, women, children — and occasionally dogs — who gather every Tuesday evening at Barry’s Old School Irish Pub in Webster to go for a walk or run. After completing a pre-mapped two, three or four-mile route, we reconvene at the pub for a pint, pretzels and good conversation.

We’ve met every week now for almost a year and a half, running (and walking) through snow, cold, sleet and heat, and always at Barry’s. This week, however, we’re changing things up a bit and going on our first ever road trip.

This Tuesday evening September 12 at 6:30 p.m., Barry’s Runners will be meeting at the brand new Jack’s Place playground in Penfield’s Rothfuss Park on Five Mile Line Road.

Jack’s Place, which officially opened only a few weeks ago, is a blue, dinosaur-themed playground built by the Jack Foundation, to honor the memory of 3-year old Jack Heiligman, who lost his life tragically last October. The foundation’s primary focus is to keep Jack’s happy spirit alive by encouraging others to spread random acts of kindness.

Barry’s Runners have taken that challenge to heart. Twice the group has collected gift cards from retailers all over the area and delivered them randomly — and often anonymously — to village people and houses.  (Read the column I wrote about the first of those efforts here.)

Most recently, the group purchased an engraved brick for Jack’s Place, one of many which were installed along the playground’s entrance walkway.

Tuesday’s plan is simple: meet at Jack’s Place (Rothfuss Park, 1648 Five Mile Line Road) at 6:30 p.m. Running/walking routes will be determined ahead of time so people can choose whichever length they’d like. There’s a mile-mile long path around the perimeter of the park, so that’s probably what I’ll be doing. After the run, we can play on the playground, and/or re-convene at Barry’s for some pints and friendship.

We’ll also be starting a new collection of gift cards on Tuesday (any amount, any place) that we can pass out on a future run.

We would love to see some new faces on Tuesday evening. There will be plenty of company for anyone who wants to do a short run, a long run, or just walk.

New friends await, so please join us.

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Summer fun continues in the village

8 Sep

Summer doesn’t officially end for a few weeks, and before it does, the Village of Webster is going to squeeze every bit of fun out of the season it can.

rogue oneThe Business Improvement District will be showing Star Wars Rogue One on Saturday September 9 beginning at dusk in Gazebo Park on North Avenue. This week’s movie is sponsored by the Webster Chamber of Commerce, who will be handing out free popcorn and goodies.

On Saturday September 16, Webster will host its first-ever Beer Walk, by popular demand. From 4 to 7 p.m., stroll through the village and stop into our local merchants to sample some great beers and ciders. So far the following businesses and brews are on the schedule:

Burke’s – Sam Adams
Pub 235- Triphammer
R-salon – Apple Country Spirits – Rootstock Hard Cider
Sweetwood Barbecue – Southern Tier Brewing Company
Salvatore’s – Sierra Nevada
Coach – Ballast Point
Barry’s – Guinness

Glass pickup will be from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at The Coach Sports Bar at 19 West Main Street, and proper ID is needed. Each participant must be present to get their glass.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at the Webster BID website (click on the Beer Walk link). Cash sale tickets will be available at The Coach starting Monday September 11. Proceeds will be donated to Challenger Miracle Field.

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Webster Museum hosts cemetery tour

7 Sep

 

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Just in time for the spooky season, the Webster Museum has put together a Webster Rural Cemetery tour for children and adults later this month.

(Actually, it’s not going to be the least bit scary, because it’s happening in the middle of the day, AND there’s a scavenger hunt involved. So basically, it sounds like it’s going to be a fun way to learn a little history.)

The tour will take place on Saturday September 23 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Webster Rural Cemetery, located at 1087 Ridge Road. Participants will begin in the chapel, tackle the scavenger hunt, and then walk around the cemetery, stopping at different graves to hear stories about some of Webster’s residents and the parts they played in the development of our community.

Cost is $5 for adults, with children 16 and under free. All proceeds will benefit the Webster Museum.  There’s no pre-registration; you can pay when you get there, so bring the whole family!

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Bygone blog: Goodbye, old friends

5 Sep

This is the fifth in my series of Bygone Blogs, in which I am re-posting some of my favorite blogs from the last 8 years. This one was originally published on December 16, 2011.

I chose this blog especially for today, the first day of the new school year here in Webster. As I begin my second year at the libraries of Schlegel Road and Plank Road North elementary schools, I still remember fondly my time at Thomas High School and all the friends I made there.

Including the copiers.  

RIP

Wednesday was a bittersweet day at work. We said goodbye to our two big, old copiers (which we affectionately called “Copier A” and “Copier B”) and welcomed two big, brand new ones.

For most of the staff at Webster Thomas, it was a happy occasion. After five years of heavy use, the old gals were really beginning to show their age. Jams were becoming more common. Parts were wearing out on a regular basis. People were beginning to think the Xerox repairman was on staff. No one shed a tear when they heard the copiers were being replaced.

But they never knew Copiers A and B like I did. For them, they were just convenient tools, meant to serve them and facilitate their administrative and teaching needs. As long as they were running smoothly, everything was sweetness and light. But jam up even for a minute and things turned nasty. Really fast.

I understand, though. Like most good things we have in life, the teachers didn’t really notice or appreciate Copiers A and B unless something went wrong, which was easily less than ten percent of the time. They didn’t work next door to them for five years like I had. They hadn’t rooted around inside with eight-inch tweezers and a miniature flashlight, searching for the smallest scraps of paper jammed in the deepest corners. They couldn’t tell just by listening that the copiers weren’t feeling well.

Yes, I was kind of attached to Copier A and Copier B.

So, to properly express my feelings and make sure our old friends got the respect they deserved in their final days, when I sent an email to the staff announcing the new copiers’ pending arrival, I added this footnote:

Please consider throwing some kind words at Copiers A and B when you’re in the copy room today. Despite their occasional PMS and old-age moments, they have been real workhorses and have served us well. If you’re a building veteran, you’ll remember the clunkers we had before our friends A and B came along. These were a huge improvement and they have earned the right to depart the Thomas family with dignity.

I might cry. Don’t watch.

To their credit, my peers understood and were very sympathetic. They sent condolence emails. One wondered, “Should we give them a proper going away party? What does one give the copier that has everything? It’s not like they need another drawer, and staples don’t always agree with them.” I received an email condolence card featuring blooming magnolias, in which my friend wrote, “As the flowers signify a new beginning, thus your fondness for your new copiers will develop over time. Sorry for the loss!”

But the best of the best was when my friend Leslie beckoned me into the copy room, taped two hand-colored paper roses on the copiers, took my hand and conducted a short memorial service. It was all I could do to not cry. Because I was laughing so hard.

We left the roses on the copiers until they were hauled away, and several teachers took the opportunity to scribble some kind notes.

flower

Hmm. Maybe they appreciated our old friends “A” and “B” more than I realized.

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Webster Garlic Festival returns this weekend

4 Sep
garlic banner

This year’s Webster Garlic Festival will be held on September 9 and 10. 

One of our town’s newest — and most aromatic — festivals returns this weekend.

The Webster Garlic Festival will return to the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Drive, this Saturday and Sunday September 9 and 10.

This festival is basically a garlic-lover’s paradise. You can check out garlic-infused foods, garlic seed and garlic gadgets, and demonstrations about garlic foods and garlic gardens. There will be a dozen garlic vendors, and more than 50 other community agencies and craft and general vendors selling everything from cheese, honey and jams to hand-made jewelry and greeting cards. There are so many vendors that they’ll fill the gymnasium and spill out onto the Rec Center grounds.

There’s live entertainment all afternoon, and if it’s anything like last year, there will also be a handful of food trucks where you can get a great lunch.

Admission is just $5 for adults, with kids under 16 free. Hours are Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This annual event is sponsored by the Kiwanis, Lions and Rotary clubs. All proceeds will benefit Challenger Miracle Field, Hope House, Webster Community Chest, three outstanding local causes. So even if you’re not a big fan of garlic, come on out for some good eats, good entertainment, and great shopping.

For lots more details, and a list of all the vendors, entertainers and events, visit the garlic festival website at www.webstergarlicfestival.com.

Here are a a few photos from last year’s event , which benefited from awesome weather. Right now it looks like the sun might shine on the event again.

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Another mailbag!

2 Sep

mailbagI know I cleaned out my email box not long ago, but several other items have popped up in recent days, so here’s another mailbag!

Free Rabies Clinic

On Thursday, September 14, the Town of Webster and the Monroe County Health Department will combine effort to host a FREE Rabies Clinic at a NEW location this time. It will be held at the Webster Volunteer Fire Department firehouse at 35 South Avenue in the village, from 5 to 7 p.m.

If your dog/cat has had a rabies vaccine in the past, bring that current rabies certificate with you for your pet to receive a three-year vaccination, without the certificate the dog/cat will be issued a one-year vaccine certificate.

If you can’t attend the clinic, contact the Monroe County Health Department at 753-5171 or visit the Town of Webster website for information on future Rabies Clinics in Monroe County.

Flapjack Breakfast

The monthly Community Flapjack Breakfasts are back at the First Baptist Church of Penfield, after a summer break.

The first breakfast of the season is Saturday September 16, with proceeds to benefit Willow Domestic Violence Center.

The breakfast will run from 8 to 10 a.m. at the church, 1862 Penfield Road. It includes pancakes, pure maple syrup, scrambled eggs, sausage, and more, all for just $5.00 per person.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection

The Monroe County Department of Environmental Services (DES), the Town of Webster and the Town of Penfield have joined forces to hold an appointment-only Household Hazardous Waste collection on Saturday, September 16.  The collection will take place at the Webster Highway Department, 1005 Picture Parkway, from 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Most household hazardous waste products (paint, flammables and other chemicals from home-use) are safe when used and stored properly. When they become unwanted and are disposed of improperly, these household wastes can become environmental hazards.

To ensure safety and reduce waiting times, appointments are required. Appointments for this collection will be accepted until September 15. To schedule an appointment, Webster residents should call 872-1443 (Monday thru Thursday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.); Penfield residents can call 340-8710, or go on-line to http://www.monroecounty.gov/hhw to schedule your appointment. This Household Hazardous Waste collection is open to all Monroe County residents. Waste from businesses will not be accepted.

Food Truck Rodeo

On Thursday September 21, our local paramedic service, the NEQ ALS, will be hosting the organization’s third food truck rodeo and vendor fair at the Firemen’s Field on Main Street, from 5 to 8 pm.

Details are still coming together as to which food trucks and vendors will be attending this time around, but in August the trucks included: Netsins Ice Cream, Effortlessly Healthy, Macarollin and Heiztelamns, and the vendors included Young Living, LuLaRoe, Honey and Lace, Pampered Chef, Usborne Books, Tupperware, Perfectly Posh, Tastefully Simple, Lip Sense, XS Energy, and Park Lane Paparazzi.

For updates, visit the event page here.

Fall Chicken BBQ 

St. Martin Lutheran Church’s bi-annual Chicken BBQ will be held Saturday, September 23 from 4:30-6:30 at the church, 813 Bay Road, Webster.

Dinners of ½ chicken, salt potatoes, cole slaw, roll, butter and beverage are available for $10.  Luscious pie slices and other desserts will also be available for purchase.  A hot dog dinner for kids is $2.

Dinners are eat-in or take-out. Tickets can be reserved by calling the church office at 671-1899, or purchased at the event while supplies last. Proceeds will support the church’s Christmas Stocking Project, which reaches more than 500 youths in Monroe and Wayne counties.

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

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