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Webster community mailbag

5 Apr

A couple of events from my friends at the Webster Chamber of Commerce today.

The first is the announcement about their next Eat, Drink & Connect event. These networking events are hosted monthly by Chamber members are great opportunities to develop current business connections and start new ones. They’re also a chance for Chamber visitors to socialize with Webster Chamber members and find out more about the organization.

The April event will be hosted by Metro Mattress at 975 Ridge Road in Webster, on Wednesday April 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Members and professionals interested in doing business in Webster, and are prospective Chamber members, are invited to attend these events. Bring a door prize to increase your business’ visibility and maybe you’ll even win something! There’s no fee to attend. but registration is required.

The Webster Chamber of Commerce also hosts a Monthly Meeting with a breakfast buffet for Chamber members, guests, and visitors who are interested in investigating Chamber membership. April’s meeting (complete with a hot breakfast buffet) will be held on Friday, April 24 from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd. The Monthly Meetings are opportunities to network, meet new contacts, develop current business relationships, learn, and earn visibility for your business or organization. Every attendee also participates in pass-the-mic. This is the largest monthly Chamber networking event within the Greater Rochester area, with 80-100 attendees. Bring a door prize for increased visibility and your business card, to take your chances on winning a door prize! Online reservations are required by Thursday, April 23 at noon.  

Arboretum presents program on lawn care

Carl Schimenti, the Urban Environmental Specialist for the Cornell Turfgrass Team, will visit the Webster Arboretum on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. to present a program on Lawn Care and Management. Learn lawn care basics such as grass type, water needs and weed control with pre- and post-emergents, fertilizing do’s and don’ts and mowing tips. Please register at thewebsterarboretum.org.  This presentation will take place at The Webster Arboretum 1700 Schlegel Rd in Webster.

Musical BINGO!

The Webster Recreation Center invites community members who are 55+ to a fun and exciting “Singo Bingo” game on Friday April 17, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The game is a musical twist on the classic game of bingo. Sing along to your favorite tunes while matching song samples to titles on your Bingo card. Fantastic prizes await. Cost is $3 per participant and registration is required. Visit the Rec Center’s registration page and search for activity #141086.

The Webster Recreation Center is located at 1350 Chiyoda Dr.

Also at the Rec Center

Here’s a look at this month’s Talks on Tuesday series:

  • Tuesday April 14: Golf Injury Prevention
    • Physical therapist Stephen Spencer will discuss golf-specific injuries and share effective strategies for prevention. Register for Activity #146940-O
  • Tuesday April 21: Turning 65 and Medicare Options
    • Jon Jordan from my Diligent Advisors will take you through the various Medicare options from the key
      components A, B, C, & D to coverage choices and the enrollment process.
  • Tuesday April 28: Gardening Pain Free
    • Gardening is great for the body and mind—but bending, kneeling, and lifting can strain the back, knees, and shoulders. This talk teaches simple body-mechanic tips, gentle warm-ups, and easy positioning strategies to help seniors garden more comfortably, avoid injury, and enjoy the season with less pain and more confidence. Register for Activity #146940-Q

Talks on Tuesday programs are designed for community members aged 55+, and are held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The programs are free but registration is required.

Harmony in the House returns

Plans are being made and songs are being rehearsed for Harmony in the House 2026, the annual joint concert of The Chorus of the Genesee and Rochester Rhapsody. This year’s musical extravaganza will be held Saturday, May 30 at Our Lady of Mercy High School.

More details to come about that, but there are a couple of ways you can help right now:

  1. Buy an advertisement in the Show Program. Over 600 audience members and performers from Webster/Greater Rochester will see your ad. You’ll be mentioned on our social media sites as well. Prices range from $15 to $250 and the program will be printed in full color. Place your ad HERE or send an email to RochesterCOG@gmail.com if you have questions. Deadline for ad submissions is April 14.
  2. Buy tickets for the show. You can get them here.
  3. Make a direct donation to the Harmony House Renovation Project (your donation is tax-deductable)

Questions? email RochesterCOG@gmail.com

WCCH Mother’s Day Raffle (you’re her favorite, right?)

Here’s news about a great Mother’s Day raffle to benefit the Webster Comfort Care Home (WCCH).

  • First prize ($500+ value) is the ultimate self-care bundle includes WOW hair products, a gift certificate to Evie Boutique, a beautiful candle, and more in a Thirty-One Catch All Bin to help one lucky winner relax, refresh, and feel pampered!
  • Second prize ($125 value) includes a big bottle of Prosecco, two insulated wine glasses, wine charms, sassy sticky notes, and a soft, cozy afghan, everything you need to unwind in style.
  • Third prize ($50 value) is a sweet little treat! It includes a candle, dream pillow, sassy sticky notes, and $20 in gift cards to Lala of Webster for a little extra something special.

Tickets are $25 each, 3 for $60 or 6 for $100, and are available at the WCCH website. Drawing will be held on May 3 at 10 a.m. Click here to get your tickets.

Good books, cheap

The Friends of WPL’s Spring Book Sale takes place Wednesday, April 22 through Saturday April 25.

The first day of the sale, April 22 from 4 to 7 p.m., is exclusively for Friends members. Membership can be purchased at websterlibrary.org or at the door.

All are welcome to attend the Book Sale on Thursday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hardcover books will be $1 each and paperbacks are only 50 cents each. Thursday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to noon are Bring-Your-Own-Bag Sale days, when you can fill your bag with books for only $5.

And don’t forget about this library event…

The Webster Public Library’s annual Diverse Abilities Resource Fair has been scheduled for Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m. to noon.

If you’re looking for resources for your loved one with a disability, this is a great opportunity to meet and chat with representatives from several Rochester-area organizations which offer all sorts of programs and support. All ages are welcome. Registration is not required but recommended if you would like a reminder. To register, call 585-872-7075 or visit websterlibrary.org.

Got expired drugs?

Webster Health and Education Network, together with the Town of Webster and the Webster Police Department will host a DEA National Drug Take Back event on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Town Court, 1002 Ridge Rd. (behind Town Hall; look for the blue roof). Clear out your medicine cabinet to help to keep Webster safe. This will be a drive-through event so you don’t even have to get out of your car! 

This is your chance to safely dispose of unused, expired or unwanted medications. Registration is not required, but if you register you’ll get a reminder via email about the event. You can register and get more details here.

The Webster Health & Education Network (WHEN) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving Webster families for 30 years. Research shows that the longer a young person waits before trying drugs or alcohol, the less likely they are to become addicted later in life. WHEN works to delay, decrease, and prevent substance use by underage youth. 

It’s chicken barbecue time again!

St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold its Spring Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday, May 2 at the church, 813 Bay Road, Webster. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. and will continue until all dinners are sold out.

Dinners will include a half chicken, salt potatoes, coleslaw, roll, butter and cookie, and will cost $15.

The event will be drive-through only and there will be no advance sales; first-come, first-served. Cars should enter the parking lot, follow the signs, and purchase dinners using exact payment of either cash or check. Cars will then pick up boxed dinners.

Proceeds from the BBQ will support both St. Martin’s Little Free Pantry and Christmas Stocking Project, which reaches more than 500 local youth in Monroe and Wayne counties.

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(posted 4/5/2026)

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

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Webster community mailbag

10 Feb

It’s not too late to recycle your Christmas tree

Assuming you’re not using it for Valentine’s Day decoration, you can still drop off your tree for recycling through Feb. 28 at the Webster Highway Department, 1005 Picture Parkway (off of Hard Rd.)

Once you drive in, as soon as you see the gas pumps, look to the left and you will see a sign where you can leave the tree by the gate.

Supervisor Scialdone Community Office Hours

Your next opportunity to have a chat with Webster Town Supervisor Alex Scialdone is this Wednesday, February 11, when he’ll hold his next Community Office Hours from 5 to 6 p.m. at Liberty Lodge at Finn Park, 850 Maple Drive. And if you can’t make that time, he’s also scheduled office hours on Tuesday, Feb. 24 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center.

Note that there is no formal presentation at these events. It’s just your chance to hang out with the supervisor, ask your questions and present your concerns. You don’t have to register; just show up.

Have lunch and network with the Chamber

This next notice is from the Webster Chamber of Commerce:

The February Connect @ Noon event will be hosted by Susan Tripp of SMT Mobile Notary and Brett Dawson of the Dawson Law Firm. The event will be held at the offices of the Chamber of Commerce and & rocENROLL HEALTH, 1110 Crosspointe Lane, this Friday Feb. 13 from noon to 1:30 pm. Lunch will be provided.

Webster Chamber members host Connect @ Noon events every month, opportunities to build current professional relationships and to begin new ones. Members and professionals interested in doing business in Webster and becoming members of the Chamber are invited to attend. Bring your business cards and a door prize to increase your visibility through announcements and the Chamber website. 

There is no fee to attend, but registration is required.

Spaghetti. Yum.

Looking ahead to March, the Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters (WSPS) will be the recipient of a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser at the Webster Masonic Temple, 30 Orchard St., on Friday March 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. About 20 to 25 of our volunteer drivers will be there serving folks in our community.

Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for kids 12 and under. And while you’re there, make sure to take a chance on the raffle for a hand-carved bear. (You know you’ve always wanted one.) Funds raised will help WSPS continue to expand their service programs.

Party for Mardi Gras

Here’s a reminder about a fun way to celebrate Mardi Gras with our community.

St. Martin Lutheran Church’s annual Mardi Gras Free Pancake Supper is coming up on Tuesday, Feb. 17 at the church, 813 Bay Rd.

This annual event is a thank-you to the community for supporting St. Martin’s charitable missions all year. The dinner will feature unlimited pancakes and syrup, sausages and applesauce. Beads will be provided and you can even make your own masks. Feel free to come dressed in Mardi Gras style, and bring the whole family and all your friends.

There’s no charge, but a free will offering to support St. Martin’s Little Free Pantry would be very appreciated, or bring boxed and canned goods.

Our schools’ spring musical season continues in early March when Webster Thomas High School presents Footloose the Musical March 5 through 7. It tells the story of Ren McCormack, a Chicago teen who moves to the small, conservative town of Bomont, where dancing and rock music have been banned by Reverend Shaw Moore after a tragic accident. Ren clashes with the strict town, falls for the reverend’s rebellious daughter, and with his new friends, rallies the teens to challenge the ban and fight for their right to dance.

Show times are Thursday and Friday March 5 and 6 at 7 p.m., and Saturday March. 7 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. More to come about tickets.

Later in the month, on March 20 and 21, Spry Drama Club will present the hit musical Disney Newsies Jr.

This family-friendly stage adaptation of the Broadway musical tells the true story of New York City newsboys striking for fair treatment in 1899. Led by charismatic Jack Kelly and aided by reporter Katherine Plumber, the newsies unite against powerful publishers like Joseph Pulitzer to fight exploitation, learn the power of their collective voice and win better conditions, while exploring themes of courage, friendship, and social justice. Show times are Friday March 20 and Saturday March 21 at 7 p.m. I’ll let you know when tickets are available.

Save the date for bowling!

CDS Wolf Foundation is hosting their 19th annual Strike for Abilities Bowling Party on Sunday, March 8 at Bowlero in Webster. Final details for this great event are still being worked out, but organizers are looking for sponsors. Click here for more information.

Stay tuned for more information.

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(posted 2/10/2026)

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

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Webster community mailbag

1 Feb

Quite the variety of notices in today’s mailbag, so make sure to read till the end.

Color Your Community Green will host a discussion this coming Tuesday focused on Monroe County’s Climate Action Plan and how it can be used to meet state goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Information will be presented about the most effective solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions locally and how we can build a sustainable future for our community. Community members are encouraged to attend and share your concerns about climate change as well as your visions for a sustainable community.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday Feb. 3 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Webster Public Library’s Community Room. There’s no cost to attend but please register here so the library knows how many chairs to set up.

Go Red!

Carla Ann Scheiber, owner of Lovely You Aesthetics in the Village of Webster, has enthusiastically signed on to the Go Red for Women campaign, an American Heart Association initiative to raise awareness that cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women, and empowers women to take charge of their heart health.

As part of her efforts, Carla Ann will be hosting a Go Red Lovely Galentine’s Event on Friday, Feb. 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Lovely You Aesthetics, 82 North Ave. Tickets are $30, and attendees will get cocktails, food, a Go Red Lovely shirt and five raffle tickets for a chance to win some fabulous prizes. Click here to get tickets.

So grab your girls, wear red, and support women’s health while making an impact together.

Party for Mardi Gras

St. Martin Lutheran Church’s annual Mardi Gras Free Pancake Supper is coming up on Tuesday, Feb. 17 at the church, 813 Bay Rd.

This annual event is a thank-you to the community for supporting St. Martin’s charitable missions all year. The dinner will feature unlimited pancakes and syrup, sausages and applesauce. Beads will be provided and you can even make your own masks. Feel free to come dressed in Mardi Gras style, and bring the whole family and all your friends.

There’s no charge, but a free will offering to support St. Martin’s Little Free Pantry would be very appreciated, or bring boxed and canned goods.

Kindergarten registration now open

Webster Central School District kindergarten registration for the 2026-27 school year is now open.

Families with incoming kindergartners are asked to register them now via the Infinite Campus Parent & Student Portal at www.websterschools.org by clicking More > Student Registration and completing the 2026-27 registration completely online. All registrations completed via the portal are streamlined by accessing the current information on file. 

The district is encouraging families to register early because it takes a lot of planning to appropriately place students in our seven elementary schools. If there is not enough space for a child to enroll at their home elementary school, registrations will be processed in the order in which they are received.

PreK registration is not yet open. The preK lottery for the 2026-27 school year will be open February 13 at 10 a.m. and run through March 14. Parents and caregivers interested in learning more about the district’s preK options are invited to attend an open house on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m.

The district has three preK options:

  • Full-day (five hours) located at our elementary schools and both high schools
  • Full-day (5 hour) with wrap care located at a childcare community partner with wrap care paid by the family
  • Half-day (2.5 hours) with morning and afternoon options at STARS Preschool next to Holy Trinity Church

The upcoming open house provides families living within the Webster CSD boundaries an opportunity to see some of the sites and learn more about the program before registering for the lottery. This adult visit is intended to support families in ranking their choices and answering questions prior to the registration window beginning Feb. 13.

Open houses will take place at:

  • Webster Schroeder High School, 875 Ridge Road, Webster (enter door 4)
  • Bay View YMCA, 1209 Bay Road, Webster
  • Busy Blossoms, 60 Barrett Drive, Webster
  • Expressive Beginnings, 12 May Street, Webster
  • Kids First, 1676 Empire Blvd., Webster
  • STARS Preschool, 1456 Ridge Road, Webster

Families who are unable to attend the open house and would like to learn more about Webster CSD PreK are encouraged to visit the website at websterschools.org/prek or call (585) 216-0122.

Got antiques?

This isn’t Webster specific, but will be of interest to anyone who loves antiques: Antiques Roadshow is coming to Mumford on Wednesday, June 17.

You won’t be able to just show up or buy tickets at the door. They’re distributed through a random sweepstakes.

  • Deadline to Enter: You must submit your entry by Monday, April 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM PT.
  • Cost: Tickets are free.
  • The Process: You can enter the drawing on the official PBS Antiques Roadshow website. Winners are usually notified in mid-to-late April.
  • The “Producer Picks” Contest: When you enter the sweepstakes, you have the option to submit photos of your specific item. If a producer loves your item’s story or mystery, you might be selected for a “Producer Pick” ticket, which guarantees you a spot.

Limit is two tickets per address. Good luck!

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(posted 2/1/2026)

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

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Bring the family, play some games, have some pizza at St. Martin Family Game Night

27 Jan

Sometimes, when it’s really snowy and cold out, the best thing to do is to hunker down with the family and pull out a board game. This coming weekend, St. Martin Lutheran Church will give you the chance to do that when they host their Family Game Night, Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m.

Participants can bring their favorite board games or card games, but a variety of games will also be provided at the event. Attendees are also invited to bring a potluck dessert or snacks to share. St. Martin volunteers will be serving up pizza and chili for all.

The event is open to the entire community and is designed to provide a welcoming, family-friendly evening of food, games, and fellowship. There’s no cost and you don’t have to register. Family Game Night is intended for all ages and offers an opportunity for community members to spend time together during the winter season in a warm, inclusive environment.

“This event is about creating space for families, friends, and neighbors to connect in a relaxed and enjoyable setting,” Sharon Haffen, who is organizing the event, said. “Whether you come with a favorite game or just come ready to play, everyone is welcome.”

Family Game Night is this Saturday, January 31, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at St. Martin Lutheran Church, 813 Bay Road in Webster. For more information, email stmartinwebster@gmail.com or call (585) 671-1899.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 1/27/2026)

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Got my annual photo with Santa on Friday night

8 Dec

… AND I frosted and sprinkled my cookie AND got a piece of pizza AND picked up my “reverse Advent calendar,” all at St. Martin Lutheran Church’s annual Evening With Santa last Friday night.

This is such a great community event, held not just for the church’s parishioners, but for anyone and everyone, as a thank you for supporting their charitable causes all year long. The Scouts of Troop 110 are always there to run games and crafts for the kids, there’s free pizza and drinks, cookie-making, story time and of course, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The reverse Advent calendar, by the way, is a sectioned box with room for 24 cans of food. The idea is to put a can IN the box every day in December up to Christmas. Then all the cans are used to stock St. Martin’s Little Free Food Pantry. I love that the folks there know I do this every year and save my pre-wrapped Advent box for me.

Here’s a slideshow with some more photos from the evening. Thank you to my friend Rebecca for providing a lot of these.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 12/8/2025)

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Annual Evening With Santa returns to St. Martin Lutheran Church

27 Nov

In just a little more than a week, Friday night Dec. 5, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting St. Martin Lutheran Church on Bay Rd. for the church’s annual holiday party.

They’ll be arriving by fire truck at around 6 p.m., then spend the next few hours visiting with children in the church’s community hall. Every child will have an opportunity to talk with Santa and tell him their secret wishes (you can skip the mall lines). It’s also a great opportunity for a beautiful family photo. Free photos will be taken, but feel free to bring your own camera.

After your kids visit with the jolly ol’ elf (and Mrs. Claus), make sure to hang around a bit and decorate your own Christmas cookies, enjoy some games and Christmas crafts, listen to Santa read The Night Before Christmas and Pastor Korey read the Real Christmas Story, and sing along with Santa. Free pizza and beverages will also be provided for all.

This is a community-wide celebration! Everyone is invited. Admission is free but please bring a canned good for the Little Free Pantry at the church, which provides food 24/7 for our neighbors in need.

St. Martin Lutheran Church is located at 813 Bay Rd. It all begins at 6 p.m. on Friday Dec. 5. Get there early so you can watch for the fire truck carrying Santa and Mrs. Claus.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 11/27/2025)

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Need help? Food and clothing assistance is available

31 Oct

You’ve all probably been hearing about the temporary (we hope) suspension of SNAP subsidies due to the government shutdown. SNAP funds are provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to low-income individuals and families to help them afford nutritious food.

That eventuality may not directly affect you and your family, and count your blessings if it does not. But but if that fund does run and lapses on Nov. 1 (and at this writing that looks likely), it will most definitely affect many of your Webster neighbors. According to the Federal Education Department, in the 2023-24 school year, 5 percent of households in the Webster school district – that’s 1,300 households – were eligible for SNAP and stand to lose those benefits.

But there is help. If you or someone you know will be struggling in the coming weeks to provide enough food and clothing for themselves and their families, here’s a list of places you can go to get assistance:

Food assistance

  • Lasagna Love — request a lasagna and a volunteer will deliver it. Click link to request.
  • Meals on Wheels — hot meal delivery for Monroe County seniors and pet food for current recipients. Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 585-787-8397.
  • Phillips Village Food Pantry — 100 Krieger Rd., Webster. Self-serve, accessible outside 24/7 (only for Phillips Village residents). Located near main office.
  • St. Martin Food Pantry — 813 Bay Rd., Webster. Self-serve, accessible outside 24/7. Call 585-671-1899, or email stmartinwebster@gmail.com.
  • COME Dinners — Community dinners hosted at Webster churches. Contact Wendy McVeigh for schedule. 585-265-9720 or wmcveigh@gmcwebster.org.
  • Foodlink Curbside Markets — Purchase food at a discount from mobile food stand. Click the link for schedule or call 585-328-3380.

Food and clothing assistance … and more

  • Webster Hope — 1450 Ridge Rd., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items, household items, emergency financial assistance. Click link for hours, call 585-265-6694 or email websternyhope@gmail.com.

Assistance for Webster students

  • Elementary Schools — Free/reduced lunches, WCSD and Immanuel Lutheran Church’s backpack weekend food program. Contact your school’s main office or apply through websterschools.org.
  • Schroeder High School — 875 Ridge Rd., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact kelly_petzing@webstercsd.org or call 585-670-8083.
  • Spry Middle School — 119 South Ave., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact meghann_piwko@webstercsd.org or call 585-285-6500.
  • Thomas High School — 800 Five Mile Line Rd., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact joan_bardanis@webstercsd.org or call 585-670-8000.
  • Willink Middle School — 900 Publishers Parkway, Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact mary_hurley@webstercsd.org or call 585-670-1044.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 10/31/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

12 Oct

Some weeks I barely have enough ideas to fill three or four days of blogs. This is not one of those weeks.

Some days I only have a handful of items for one of my mailbags. This is not one of those days.

So in the interest of making today’s mailbag easier to compile for me, and easier to read for you (without a whole lot of extraneous information), How about this … I’ll bullet-point everything, and if you need any additional information about any one of them, click through the handy link in each listing.

We’ll start with stuff happening in October:

  • If you’re a guy who likes to sing, consider stopping by Guest Night at the Chorus of the Genesee on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Harmony House, 58 East Main St. in the Village of Webster. Join the guys to sing ‘a cappella’ music — you don’t need to read music! If you can sing a tune, they’ll show you the rest. No need to register, just walk on in the Main St. entrance. If you’re early, someone will meet you at the door. If you get there on-time/late, follow the signs upstairs to the rehearsal room. There’s singing until 9 p.m., then refreshments and socializing. If you have any questions, call 585.259.3590, or email RochesterCOG@gmail.com. If you can’t make it Tuesday night, feel free to show up any Tuesday night at 7 p.m. (but there’s no promise of refreshments!)
  • Did you know? October 15 is National White Cane Safety Day. The observance celebrates the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired and recognizes the important symbol and tool of independence, the white cane. As the story goes, in 1930, George Bonham watched a man who was blind attempting to cross a street. The man’s cane was black, and motorists couldn’t see it, so Bonham proposed painting the cane white with a red stripe to make it more noticeable. But was he the first to think of this? Ed Wilkonski, from the Visionaries Low Vision Support Group in Webster, sent me the whole story. If you’re interested, click here.
  • Webster Health and Education Network will host a DEA National Drug Take Back event on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Town Court, 1002 Ridge Rd. This will be a drive-through event so you don’t even have to get out of your car. Registration is not required, but if you register you’ll get a reminder via email about the event. You can register and get more details here.
  • St. Martin Lutheran Church will host their next Pulled Pork Drive-Thru on Saturday Oct. 18 from 4:30 p.m. until they run out. Dinners include pulled pork, salt potatoes, roll, cole slaw and cookie for just $15. Pull into the parking lot, place your order using exact payment, and the dinner will be delivered to you as you drive up in your car. Proceeds will support the church’s annual Christmas Stocking Project. St. Martin Lutheran Church is located at 813 Bay Rd.
  • Frank and Greg Palma’s Antiques and Collectibles Roadshow returns to the Webster Museum on Sunday, Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. If you’re curious about the value or origin of a favorite piece, the Palma brothers will share their expertise and insight into the history and value of your items. Free refreshments provided. The museum is located at 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster.

The October community exchange table will have spooky stuff — bring your old and unused spooky stuff and swap it for different spooky stuff.

The Friends of the Public Library’s Fall Book Sale takes place Oct. 22 to 25. The first day of the sale — Wednesday — is members only, and the public can shop Thursday through Friday. Hardcover books will be $1 each and paperbacks are only 50 cents each. Visit the Friends of Webster Library web page for hours and more information.

On Saturday Oct. 18, celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Come see amazing dancers, listen to fabulous singers and musicians, sample delicious food, and enjoy celebrating with the community. The event will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. and registration is required. All ages are welcome.

Teens and tweens in grades 4 to 12 are invited to a night of spooky fun on Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., with activities, treats and more. Costumes are encouraged! Registration is required.

This year’s Library Trick-or-Treat event will be held Friday, Oct. 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There’ll be a trick-or-treat trail set up through the entire library, with a spooky maze at the end. Come any time, and costumes are encouraged. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.

Looking ahead to November

  • The Women’s Club of Webster‘s annual Card Party is Tuesday Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.at Glendoveers, 2328 Old Browncroft Rd. Play cards or a game of your choice. Participants will enjoy Danish and coffee in the morning, and a buffet lunch. Door prizes, raffles, 50/25/25 drawings and more. Donation is $45 and reservations are required by Tuesday, October 28. Click here for more information.
  • Spry Middle School students and staff will host their annual free spaghetti dinner for Webster veterans, active duty service members and their families on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. It will be served in Spry Middle School’s cafetorium, 119 South Avenue, and feature a complimentary meal of spaghetti, salad, bread, and dessert. Reservations are requested. Call Spry Middle School at (585) 216-0093. Click here for more information.
  • The Webster Arboretum will present a program called Bird Seed Ornaments: A Family Affair on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 9:30 a.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 135 Chiyoda Dr. Bring the family and join the members of the Arboretum to learn how to make “bird cookies,” the perfect little snack for the birds in your yard. They’re easy to make and fun to watch the birds enjoying them. Visit the Webster Arboretum website for more information.

Whew.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 10/12/2025)

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Pastor Korey Finstad celebrated for 20 years of faithful ministry

12 Oct

On Sunday, October 5, the congregations of St. Martin Lutheran Church and Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Webster, New York, gathered for a special joint worship service and celebration honoring Pastor Korey L. Finstad on the 20th anniversary of his ordination as a Lutheran pastor. The joyful service was filled with thanksgiving, music, and fellowship as both congregations reflected on Pastor Korey’s two decades of faithful ministry and his compassionate leadership in the Webster community.

Born and raised in Glendale, Arizona, Pastor Korey was ordained in 2005 and began his pastoral career in Fairport. Over the next two decades, he served congregations in Denver, Colorado, and Vancouver, Washington, before being called to Webster, where he now leads both St. Martin Lutheran Church and Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Since his arrival in Webster, Pastor Korey has nurtured a shared ministry between St. Martin and Bethlehem, emphasizing collaboration, community service, and joyful worship. His leadership has brought the two congregations together for shared outreach projects and events such as the “Evening with Santa” children’s event and the filling and giving away of over 500 Christmas stockings, both of which benefit local children and families in need.

As the congregations of St. Martin and Bethlehem look to the future, they do so with deep gratitude for Pastor Korey’s leadership and commitment. His 20 years of ministry have been marked by faith, humility, and service — and his continuing work in Webster promises many more years of growth, connection, and grace.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 10/12/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

3 Oct

Town leaf collection schedule announced

The Town of Webster has announced that leaf collection will begin in mid-to-late October, following the conclusion of paving and drainage projects, and depending on how many leaves have fallen and weather. Crews will begin working in Zone 1 to Zone 5, and then back to Zone 1. Highway crews make several passes throughout the season.

Make sure to place leaves at the edge of your lawn (NOT in the roadway, gutters, or drainage ditches), do not bag them, an Don;t place brush, rocks, wood, plastic, or other foreign material with your leaves

Announcements will be made ahead of the final pass. After the final pass, any leaves will need to be taken care of by residents through their refuse collection company or another means.

The Village of Webster hasn’t announced any specifics for their leaf collection efforts yet, but you can check the Village website for updates.

Webster Chamber hosts networking event

Webster Chamber of Commerce members host monthly after-hours networking events to earn visibility for their business/organization. Members and those investigating Chamber membership are welcome to attend. 

The next After Hours event will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Marina Auto Group, 943 Ridge Road. This event is also being hosted by Marina family member Rose Gabriele Angell of RE/Max Plus. There’s no fee to attend, but registration is required.

WHEN will host fall Drug Take-Back event

Webster Health and Education Network, together with the Town of Webster and the Webster Police Department will host a DEA National Drug Take Back event on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Town Court, 1002 Ridge Rd. (behind Town Hall; look for the blue roof). Clear out your medicine cabinet to help to keep Webster safe. This will be a drive-through event so you don’t even have to get out of your car! 

This is your chance to safely dispose of unused, expired or unwanted medications. Registration is not required, but if you register you’ll get a reminder via email about the event. You can register and get more details here.

Save some lives — give blood

The American Red Cross has four blood drives in Webster these next several weeks:

  • Friday, Oct. 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd.
  • Tuesday, Oct. 7, 1 to 6 p.m., Webster American Legion, 818 Ridge Rd.
  • Thursday Oct. 16, 1 to 6 p.m., Webster Firemen’s Building, 172 Sanford St.
  • Saturday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, 813 Bay Rd.

You don’t need to have an appointment, but it will speed things up a bit. Click here to make yours.

St. Martin’s announces next BBQ event

Good food is in store at St. Martin Lutheran Church when they host their next Pulled Pork Drive-Thru on Saturday Oct. 18 from 4:30 p.m. until they run out.

The take-out dinner includes pulled pork, salt potatoes, roll, cole slaw and cookie for just $15. Pull into the parking lot, place your order using exact payment, and the dinner will be delivered to you as you drive up in your car.

Proceeds will support the church’s annual Christmas Stocking Project reaching over 500 children and teens in Monroe and Wayne counties. St. Martin Lutheran Church is located at 813 Bay Rd.

The Friends of the Webster Public Library’s Book Sale will be held Wednesday, Oct. 22 through Saturday, Oct. 25. The first day of the sale — Oct. 22 from 4 to 7 p.m. — is exclusively for Friends members. Membership can be purchased at websterlibrary.org or at the door.  

All are welcome to attend the book sale on Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hardcover books will be $1 each and paperbacks are only 50 cents each. Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon are Bring-Your-Own-Bag Sale days, when you can fill your bag with books for only $5. All are welcome to attend the BYOB Sale days.

Proceeds from the sale support the library.

Fashions and fun

The Women’s Club of Rochester will host their annual Fashion Show/Luncheon on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Penfield Country Club.

In addition to some great fashions from J. Jill and a delicious luncheon, there’ll be an auction, 50/50 raffle, and a Lottery Board. Guests will arrive at 11 a.m., lunch is served at noon, and the fashion parade begins at 1 p.m. Menu options include apple crisp with salad and roll, a “mile-high” Reuben, or C=chicken French.

Tickets are $37 per person, and reservations must be made by October 23. Send your check, made out to the Women’s Club of Rochester, and meal selection to Margaret Zanghi , 2 Onyx Drive, Penfield, NY 14526.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 10/3/2025)

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