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WPL BookBox program expands to Country Manor

1 Aug

Every summer for the last 11 years, the Webster Public Library (WPL) has given young readers at Phillips Village the opportunity to check out library books, just steps from their front doors, without even having a library card.

Called the “BookBox” program, it’s kind of like a bookmobile, without the “mobile.” Every Thursday during the summer months, WPL staff members and volunteers stuff several milk crates with books for all ages, and take them on the road to children who might not otherwise have easy access to a library.

The Phillips Village BookBox program has been so successful that this summer the library has expanded it to a second location, Country Manor Apartments on Phillips Rd.

Webster Public Library Outreach Coordinator Jason Poole explains the reasoning behind the BookBoxes;

We started BookBox in 2014 when we discovered during a school visit that the children who lived in Phillips Village had limited access to the library’s resources because of the distance the apartment complex is from the library and the lack of safe options to get themselves there. Many do not speak English as a first language. Many come from families with two working parents who are not able to transport them. So instead of them coming to us, we decided to go to them.

Now that commitment, which began years ago, has been extended to the children of Country Manor.

Every Wednesday afternoon at Country Manor and Thursday afternoon at Phillips Village (in good weather), Jason and his helpers place signs throughout the apartment complexes, set up a tent and and a table, and spread the books out for ease of choice. Each book has a due-date card tucked inside for the child to sign. They can return the book the following week or hold it for longer; there’s no cost to the children, no due dates or overdue fees, and it’s all done without needing a library card.

Jason chooses most of the books — all age-appropriate and brand-new or almost brand-new — from community donations collected by the Friends of the Public Library, who also provide volunteers for the weekly programs.

The program’s not just about the books, though. It’s also a chance for kids to come outside, play with their friends and have a healthy snack, courtesy gift cards donated by Wegmans.

“We give out apples and juice boxes … and kids often stay and play kickball or Frisbee or jump rope or hula hoop,” Jason said. “We bring a bag full of balls and games … and for the last three years, Webster Parks and Recreation has sent someone to help out with that part of it.”

Thanks in part to bad weather, the Country Manor program has only been able to set up a few times this summer, so many families there have yet to discover it. But it’s an important community to connect with, since Country Manor has a significant Ukrainian refugee population.

“I think they’re interested,” Jason said, “but the language barrier presents a challenge. It’s too early to tell, really, but I think once they get used to us they will look forward to it.”

The BookBox program is truly a community effort. Webster community members donate books to the Friends, who then share them with Jason; the management at Phillips Village and Country Manor allow the library to set up shop; Wegmans donates gift cards; Webster Parks and Rec provides fitness instructors to play with kids; Webster Community Chest purchased the Phillips Village signs; and the United Church of Christ’s Caring Community Concerts series sponsors the Phillips Village BookBox.

And a huge thank you to the Webster Rotary Club for sponsoring the new Country Manor BookBox.

So even though the Webster Public Library created this amazing program, the entire Webster community is supporting it and helping it grow.

On behalf of the kids, thank you.

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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 7/31/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

30 Jul

It’s always exciting when the new school year is just around the corner, and it’s time to stock up on school supplies and new school clothes. But for many Webster families, it’s always a stressful time of year, too, because they really don’t have the money to spend on new backpacks and notebooks, let alone new clothes.

That’s why every August, Webster NY Hope holds a Back to School Night, when families in need can stop by and go home with a backpack filled with brand new school supplies. Right now, they’re collecting those supplies.

Here’s how you can help: Check out the attached flyer, which has a list of all the supplies they’re looking for. The list has been compiled from WCSD teacher lists.

You can drop off your donations at Webster Hope (1450 Ridge Rd.) or the Webster Public Library (980 Ridge Rd.) during their normal open hours. Those details are also on the flyer.

Webster Hope’s Back to School Night will be held on August 20. Families in need can sign up by Aug. 15 to participate. Call (585) 265-6694.

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Vendors needed for Jazz in the Pubs festival

A few days ago I posted a blog with details about the annual Webster Jazz Festival, which takes place on August 9 and 10.

What I did NOT mention in that post is that along with the Jazz in the Pubs on Friday Aug. 9, the village will be hosting a street festival with music and — hopefully — lots of business and vendor booths.

If your business would like to participate, email villageofwebsterbid@gmail.com for more details.

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This month at the Webster Public Library

For adults:

  • Rochester’s Early Adventurers with Matt Rogers, Thursday Aug. 15, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

A journey through time, showcasing the explorers and adventurers who came to this land and either lived alongside it, harnessed its power for industry or worked the soil and created communities., leading to the city and county we know today. The presentation will include a historical survey starting with the ancient Algonkin nation, to the Senecas, to early colonizers, to our modern day city. Registration is required.

  • Classical Guitar with Reiner Eschbach, Thursday Aug. 22, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Reiner Eschbach plays original creations on his acoustic guitar in a coffee house-like setting. Registration is required.

For teens and tweens:

  • T(w)een Olympics!, Friday Aug. 2, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Tweens and Teens are invited for an afternoon of Olympic-style minute-to-win-it challenges! You’ll also be decorating your own Olympic medals. Grades 4-12 welcome, and registration is requested.

  • Make It Monday: Map Ornaments, Monday Aug. 12, 6 to 7 p.m.

At the monthly craft night, participants will be making map ornaments. Teens (grades 4 and up) and adults are welcome to join us. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required.

For kids and families:

  • Toadstool Tales, Friday Aug. 9, 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Kids and kids at heart are invited for a concert with Rochester-based flutist and composer Jaclyn Breeze. The half-hour concert will feature three newly commissioned pieces to accompany classic fairy tales. All ages welcome. No registration is required.

  • Bug Storytime & Drop-In Crafts, Saturday Aug. 17, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. (storytime), 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (crafts)

Celebrate all things creepy crawly with a bug storytime! We will read stories, sing songs, and have some simple crafts to follow. All ages welcome. Crafts will be left out until 4:00 pm. No registration is required.

Finally, after all of this fun, join the library for their End of Summer Celebration, Friday Aug. 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. There’ll be crafts, activities and treats, and everyone is welcome. No registration is required.

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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 7/30/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

29 Jun

These first two mailbag items are especially for those of you who love gardening.

The first is a HUGE garden show hosted by the 7th District Federated Garden Clubs of New York State, scheduled for Thursday July 18 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd.

The show, called “A Floral Century,” is celebrating the Federation’s 100 year, and will feature 27 clubs from 12 counties in and around the Rochester area. Among them are the Town of Ontario Garden Club, and Webster’s own Country Gardeners of Webster and Klemwood Garden Club.

The show will feature entries in six horticulture classes (annuals, hostas, perennials, roses, arborials and combination planters); 11 design classes, many of which adhere to special themes like “Vintage,” “Patriotism” and “Rock & Roll; and divisions for education, youth, botanical arts and botanical photography.

The “Floral Century” garden show is Thursday July 18 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd. Admission and parking are free.

Arboretum Walk and Talk: Herbs

The next program in the Webster Arboretum’s Timely Topics Walk and Talk series is coming up in a few weeks, also on July 18.

On Thursday, July 18 at 1:30 p.m., Janet Robert and Beverly Gibson will show and tell about the Arboretum’s outstanding herb garden. Beverly will discuss the origin of the garden and the variety of herbs in each of the six themed beds.

The Arboretum writes,

The garden was originally developed in 1998 and is organized into five pods surrounding a sacred garden. The garden was designed in the shape of a flower and is maintained by Beverly Gibson, a certified arborist and Master Gardener who spent a year researching the plan and implemented the design with the help of Alana Miller. 

The plants are separated into groups based on their uses. The six beds are designated as culinary, medicinal, fragrance, Native American and dyes, with a sacred garden at the center. “Herb” is a loose term; if any part of a plant can be used, it is considered an herb. Generally speaking, herbs come from a plant that dies back in winter and is valued for a use. Generally, we think of using the leaves, but we can also use the flowers, stems and roots. Early cultures relied heavily on herbs for medicines, colors and preservatives. Today, we exploit their fragrances, esthetics and culinary features. 

This free, educational and lively herb discussion will be held July 18 at 1:30 p.m. at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd.  Visit the Webster Arboretum website to register for this free talk at the Arboretum. 

Here are some reminders of upcoming events I’ve already mentioned once or twice:

Geocaching presentation at the Webster Library

On Tuesday July 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the Webster Public Library, avid geocacher Gerry Sander will present a talk called Beginner’s Guide to Geocaching.

Here’s the description from the WPL website:

Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt with Geocaching, the ultimate family-friendly adventure!  Imagine setting out on a journey armed with just your GPS-enabled device or smartphone, ready to uncover hidden gems tucked away in both urban jungles and remote wilderness. 

The adventure begins with accessing coordinates of hidden caches posted online, each waiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers like yourself. With coordinates in hand, you embark on a quest to find these cleverly concealed containers, ranging from tiny film canisters to larger, more elaborate boxes. As you navigate your way through diverse landscapes, whether it’s a bustling cityscape, a tranquil forest, or a rocky coastline, you become immersed in the thrill of the hunt. Each step brings you closer to the treasure, requiring keen observation, problem-solving skills, and sometimes a bit of physical prowess, to reach the cache’s

Gerry is a veteran geocacher and his presentation will most definitely be interesting and informative. There’s no charge, but registration is required. Click here to do so.

Vintage and Collectible Books Sale

The Friends of the Webster Public Library will hold a Vintage and Collectible Books Sale on Saturday July 13 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

There will be 178 books for sale  in various categories including (but not limited to) poetry, war, history, biography and Rochester and Upstate New York, by authors including Carl Sagan, Marc Chagell and Arch Merrill. The sale will also feature authors Pearl S. Buck and A. A. Milne. Prices for some books are as low as $8 and as high as $80 but many are  priced in the teens; all prices are fixed and are not negotiable. The Friends will accept major credit cards, checks and (of course) cash. Money raised during the event will benefit the Webster Public Library.

The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the rear of Webster Plaza.

Caring Community Concerts begin soon

The United Church of Christ‘s Caring Community Concerts series returns in just a few weeks.

These concerts benefit local nonprofit organizations. The first one, scheduled for Wednesday July 10, will feature 8 Days a Week, and proceeds will benefit the Webster Comfort Care Home. (Click the flier for the whole schedule.) 

There’s no admission, but each week the church collects a free-will offering benefiting that week’s chosen non-profit organization. The concerts all begin at 6:30 p.m., and food concessions begin at 6. The concerts are held on the United Church of Christ front lawn, at 570 Klem Rd. (In case of rain it’s moved indoors.)

For more information about the concerts, click here.

Music, music, music in the Village of Webster

And mark your calendars for this summer’s Friday night concert series at the gazebo, which begins on July 19 with a performance by 8 Days a Week, followed by the Red Hot and Blue Band on July 26. Also playing this summer are Escape Terrain on August 2, the Ayers Brothers on August 16 and the Rochester Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra on August 23.

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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 6/29/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

13 Jun

I’d like to begin today’s mailbag with a shout-out to Webster Girl Scout Troop 60617 for their kindness and consideration for our deployed service members.

Troop leaders heard that military families in our area needed baby blankets, so they and their Scouts got to work. They crafted three beautiful blankets, which will be donated to Blue Star Mothers Rochester Chapter NY8, who will distribute them to local military families so they can surround their babies with love.

Many thanks to Troop 60617 and leader Beth Cunico.

And now, details about our upcoming high school graduation ceremonies, courtesy the Webster CSD:

Webster Schroeder Graduation

Rehearsal – Friday, June 21, 9 a.m. Seniors meet in the Webster Schroeder Warrior Stadium, 875 Ridge Road. REHEARSAL ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY.
Commencement – Friday, June 21 at the Webster Schroeder stadium. Seniors line up at 6:30 p.m. in the school auditorium, and procession begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. (Rain date Saturday, June 22, time TBD.)
Live stream: The 2024 Warrior Graduation Ceremony will be live streamed here.

Webster Thomas Graduation

Rehearsal – Tuesday, June 25, 10:30 a.m. Seniors meet in the Willink Middle School cafetorium, 900 Publishers Parkway. REHEARSAL ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY.
Commencement – Tuesday, June 25. Seniors line up at 6:45 p.m. in the Willink Middle School cafetorium. Procession begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. to the Webster Thomas Titan Stadium, 800 Five Mile Line Road.
(Rain date – Wednesday, June 26, time TBD.)
Live stream: The 2024 Titan Graduation Ceremony will be live streamed here.

Both ceremonies will last roughly two hours. No tickets are required. These are open seating events. Gates open to the public approximately one hour before each procession begins. There is ample seating for families and other guests in the stands and on the field. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early because traffic tends to back up.

Geocaching presentation at Webster Public Library

All sorts of fun things are always happening at the library, but I want to highlight this talk today because it’s being presented by my friend Gerry Sander.

On Tuesday July 2 at 6:30 p.m., Gerry will be presenting a talk called Beginner’s Guide to Geocaching.

Here’s the description from the WPL website:

Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt with Geocaching, the ultimate family-friendly adventure!  Imagine setting out on a journey armed with just your GPS-enabled device or smartphone, ready to uncover hidden gems tucked away in both urban jungles and remote wilderness. 

The adventure begins with accessing coordinates of hidden caches posted online, each waiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers like yourself. With coordinates in hand, you embark on a quest to find these cleverly concealed containers, ranging from tiny film canisters to larger, more elaborate boxes. As you navigate your way through diverse landscapes, whether it’s a bustling cityscape, a tranquil forest, or a rocky coastline, you become immersed in the thrill of the hunt. Each step brings you closer to the treasure, requiring keen observation, problem-solving skills, and sometimes a bit of physical prowess, to reach the cache’s hiding spot. 

It’s an exciting and interactive way to bond, explore, and make unforgettable experiences together!

Gerry is a veteran geocacher and his presentation will most definitely be interesting and informative. There’s no charge, but registration is required. Click here to do so.

Vintage and Collectible Books Sale

The Friends of the Webster Public Library will hold a Vintage and Collectible Books Sale on Saturday July 13 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

There will be 178 books for sale  in various categories including (but not limited to) poetry, war, history, biography and Rochester and Upstate New York, by authors including Carl Sagan, Marc Chagell and Arch Merrill. The sale will also feature authors Pearl S. Buck and A. A. Milne. Prices for some books are as low as $8 and as high as $80 but many are  priced in the teens; all prices are fixed and are not negotiable. The Friends will accept major credit cards, checks and (of course) cash. Money raised during the event will benefit the Webster Public Library.

The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the rear of Webster Plaza.

Frontier Kitchens introduces new golf event

Frontier Kitchens is hosting its First Annual Golf Invitational at Webster Golf Club on July 29, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Entry fee is $125 per player and includes golf, gift and lunch. RSVP by July 10. Business sponsorship packages begin at $200 and include perks like sponsorship signs, logo placement, and an opportunity to put your branded item in the gift bags. Click here for more information and to register.

The invitational will benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and Lollypop Farm Humane Society.

Caring Community Concerts begin soon

The United Church of Christ‘s Caring Community Concert series returns in just a few weeks.

These concerts benefit local nonprofit organizations. The first one, scheduled for Wednesday July 10, will feature 8 Days a Week, and proceeds will benefit the Webster Comfort Care Home. (See the flier below for the whole schedule.) 

There’s no admission, but each week the church collects a free-will offering benefiting that week’s chosen non-profit organization. The concerts all begin at 6:30 p.m., and food concessions begin at 6. The concerts are held on the United Church of Christ front lawn, at 570 Klem Rd. (In case of rain it’s moved indoors.)

For more information about the concerts, click here.

Music, music, music in the Village of Webster

Here’s another look ahead at summer in the village:

The Friday night concert series at the gazebo begins on July 19 with a performance by 8 Days a Week, followed by the Red Hot and Blue Band on July 26. Also playing this summer are Escape Terrain on August 2, the Ayers Brothers on August 16 and the Rochester Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra on August 23.

Also on the schedule this year:

  • Family Game Night and Beer Garden (Saturday July 27 from 4 to 7 p.m.)
  • Webster Jazz Festival (Aug. 9-10), featuring the New Prime Time Funk, Judah Sealy and more.
  • Health Fair and Shredding Event (Saturday Oct. 12)
  • Trick or Treat Trail (Saturday Oct. 26)
  • Bourbon Bash (Saturday Nov. 2)
  • Winter Wonderland (Saturday Dec. 7)

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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 6/13/2024)

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WHEN-sponsored programs helping keep kids safe and drug-free

12 May

Today I’ll be focusing my blog on a great organization of which I am an active member — the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN), and some of the events they have coming up for parents.

WHEN is a community coalition which for 25 years has been a recognized leader in the advocacy and promotion of healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in the Webster community. Research suggests that the longer youth wait to use drugs and/or alcohol, the less likely it is that they’ll become addicted later in life. Therefore, WHEN’s goal is to collaborate with the agency’s partners to delay, decrease, and prevent substance use among youth. 

The coalition works closely with the Webster Central School District, town and community to support drug education and awareness initiatives, like these:

Coffee & Conversation: Navigating the Tween Years

On Wednesday May 22, from 6:30-8:00 PM, WHEN will present a free forum for parents and guardians of kids in (roughly) 3rd through 6th grade. Using a World Cafe model, participants will explore creative solutions to some of today’s parenting challenges. Everyone will take home prevention strategies to help kids manage stress, dodge “frienemies,” avoid substance use, and stay healthy as they mature. The program will include discussion and sharing of ideas among parents to help participants grow their parent network and benefit from each other’s experiences.

The event will be held at Webster Parks and Recreation, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.  Please RSVP so there will be enough seating, coffee and snacks for everyone. Click here for more information.

Free Movie Event

On Thursday May 30 from 5:30-7:30 PM, the Smoking and Health Action Coalition of Livingston and Monroe Counties will host a smoke-free movie event for families at the Webster Public Library, featuring The Lorax. There’ll be pizza, drinks and giveaways, and the event is open to all. The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza.

DEA Drug Take-Back Event a success

On April 27, WHEN partnered with the Town of Webster and the Webster Police Department to hold DEA National Drug Take Back event at the Webster Justice Court. I just four hours, the team collected over 400 pounds (5-1/2 barrels) of medications which were then safely disposed of.

The whole idea of these events is to keep drugs from falling into the wrong hands, protecting loved-ones, neighbors, friends, and strangers from accidental exposure or misuse, so thank you everyone who came by. If you missed this take-back, there will be others, but in the meantime, find alternative disposal options here.

Lots of fun had at Community Arts Day

The WHEN table at Community Arts Day on April 13 was very busy. WHEN volunteers shared information about protective factors with parents while their kids decorated undersea creatures with some of their favorite ways to “octopi” their time, prompting conversations about healthy activities. They also handed out an an informative flyer with additional suggestions for healthy family fun and links to more info about protective factors and conversation starters.

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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 5/12/2024)

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What’s happening at the library?

5 May

It’s a new month and a whole new list of great events at the Webster Public Library. Here’s a quick look at May’s excitement:

  • Outdoor storytimes return to a new location this summer, at Ridge Park pavilion, next to Miracle Field. The storytimes will be held at 9:30 a.m. every Wednesday from May 29 to Aug. 28, and are geared to children ages 0-6, but all are welcome. No registration is needed.
  • For everyone: Drop-in Lego Fun on Saturday May 18 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Library will have Lego bricks out all day for builders young and old to make their own creation — or try one of the Lego games and building challenges. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.
  • For Teens: If you like books, games, crafts, sharing your ideas, taking surveys, food, or just hanging out with friends, Teen Library Club is for you. The club meets Wednesday May 29 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Students in grades 6-12 are invited, and registration is required.
  • This month’s Make-it Monday craft is Pressed Flower Suncatchers, on Monday May 13 from 6 to 7 p.m. Teens (grades 4 and up) and adults are welcome to join, and all supplies are provided. Registration is required.

The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza.

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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 5/5/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

2 May

Chicken BBQ. Yum.

St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold a Drive Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday, May 4 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.

What the heck is a hellebore?

The Webster Arboretum will host a presentation on May 9 titled Lenten Rose and Christmas Rose are Hellebores.

Learn about the care and culture of these amazing plants. Donna Shayder, Master Gardener of Monroe County, will discuss the growing conditions, types, management and appropriate care of the hellebore. She’ll also conduct a tour of the hellebore plantings at the Arboretum and answer all your questions.

No registration or fee is required. The program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Meet at the Curry Building at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Road.

Get your Mother’s Day plants here

The Webster Arboretum Association, together with local growers and local garden clubs, will host the 2024 Webster Arboretum Plant Sale on Saturday May 11 from 8 a.m. to noon.

A tremendous variety of beautiful, healthy plants from standard to uncommon will be available including annuals, dwarf conifers, geraniums, dahlias, tomatoes, trees, shrubs and more. It’s a great way to celebrate spring and get some live plants perfectly suited for your garden. And don’t forget Mother’s Day!

The sale will be held at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. Webster.

Barn Sale at Heritage Square

Heritage Square Museum, at 7147 Ontario Center Rd. in Ontario, is holding a huge Barn Sale from Thursday May 9 through Saturday May 11. Hours are:

  • Thursday, May 9 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Friday, May 10 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 11 from 9 a.m. to noon ($5 bag sale, bring your own bags)

And looking ahead, the museum will be hosting a chicken BBQ on Friday May 13 from 4 p.m. ’till gone.

Get rid of those ugly mugs

I’ll be highlighting a few more Webster Public Library events in a future blog, but this one especially caught my eye today.

Apparently the library has a “community exchange table,” which I don’t think I realized. And this month, community members can exchange MUGS there.

We all have them, a collection of coffee mugs that we’ve gathered through the years but we never use, so they’re tucked back in the back of the cabinet. Dig them out and take them to the library to exchange them for some mugs you might actually use. And who knows, someone may really want that bright pink mug with the bikini-clad flamingo that you just HAD to get on your last vacation.

Also coming up this month at the library

* Author Day on Saturday May 4, when the library welcomes three local published authors, who will talk about the paths they took from the beginning writer to nationally-known authors. Karen Miller will speak from 10 to 11 a.m.; Charles Benoit will speak from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Ruth Rosenberg Naparstek will speak from 1 to 2 p.m.

Registration for each speaker is requested. Click the name to go to the registration page for each.

* On Thursday May 9, the Webster Library, in conjunction with Webster Comfort Care Home will present “Tending to Life — Comparative Religions: Funeral Customs and Rituals.” Area faith leaders will talk about death in relation to their religion’s customs.

The program will run from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Registration is required.

Donations now being accepted for HOPE garage sale

It’s still several months away, but plans are already gearing up for the huge annual NY HOPE garage sale, scheduled for this September.

If you have items you’d like to donate, drop off dates are Wednesdays, May 8, 22 & 29 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 1460 Ridge Road (located behind Holy Trinity), Webster.

Before you drop off your donations, check out the Donation Guide, because items that cannot be used, including furniture or large items (at this time) will be refused. We may refuse items if we cannot use them.

Mark your calendars now for the sale, Wednesday, Sept. 11 through Saturday Sept. 13.

Concert to benefit the Harmony House

Music will fill the air on Saturday May 18 when the Chorus of the Genesee and Rochester Rhapsody join forces to present Harmony in the House, a fund-raiser concert to benefit the Harmony House Renovation Project.

Shows will be at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the Harmony House, 58 East Main St. in the Village of Webster. Tickets are $20 and must be purchased in advance. There will be no sales at the door. Click here to get yours, or call 585-259-3094.

Garlic Fest vendor applications now being accepted

Last but not least today, if you’re a craft or food vendor and would like to get into this year’s Webster Garlic Fest, the call for vendor applications has just gone out.

This year’s festival will run from September 7-8 at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr. A 10′ x 10′ booth will run you $150, and early set-up will be available both days.

This has become one of Webster’s best-attended events. Last year there were more than 100 vendors and 3,000 attendees. So get your application in before the spaces sell out. Click here to apply.

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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 5/2/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

12 Apr

There are several new events in today’s mailbag, plus reminders about a few things I’ve mentioned in previous mail bags, so let’s dig in …

WCSD absentee and early voter ballots available

Applications for absentee or early voter ballots for the Webster CSD Annual Budget Vote and School Board Election are now available.

Absentee ballots are for qualified voters of the district who will be unable to attend the polls on the day of the vote, for reasons outlined on the absentee ballot application. Voters must apply for the ballot in advance. Absentee ballot applications are available at the school district website or from District Clerk Heather Murphy, 119 South Avenue, Webster.

Qualified voters of the district who may wish to use an early voter ballot May download one from the school district website or from District Clerk Heather Murphy, 119 South Avenue, Webster.

All absentee and early voter ballot applications must be RECEIVED by the district clerk at least seven business days prior to the vote if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or the day before the vote if the ballot is to be picked up personally by the voter.

The Webster CSD Annual Budget Vote and Election of Board of Education Candidates takes place Tuesday, May 21, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Webster Schroeder High School gym, 875 Ridge Road, Webster.

Got stuff to shred?

The Webster Chamber of Commerce will be partnering with Kinecta Federal Credit Union on Saturday April 20 for a Drive-up Shred Fest from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Safely dispose of sensitive and unwanted documents for free.

The event will take place at the Kinecta’s Webster Main Branch, 189 West Main St. Limit is 10 boxes per person, and while you can drop them off for free, a $1 donation per box is suggested to benefit Operation Freedom Ride. Click here for more details.

Webster Chamber of Commerce invites you

The Webster Chamber of Commerce would also like to invite any and all business owners to the next Monthly breakfast meeting, Friday April 26.

Network with as many as 90 business and organizational leaders. In addition to networking before and during the breakfast, an informative program is always planned, along with a time to “pass-the-mic” so everyone has an opportunity to be visible. Visitors and members are welcome.

These meetings are always held at 7 a.m. at the Webster Recreation Center. Click here for more details about this month’s program and to register.

Fashion and fun, courtesy the Women’s Club of Webster

Fabulous food, fashions, fun, friendship, raffles and door prizes are on the menu for the 2024 Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show, Sunday May 19, sponsored by The Women’s Club of Webster.

In addition to the beautiful fashions on display, participants will enjoy a delicious luncheon, with choices of a crisp apple salad with shrimp, cheese, candied nuts, craisins and dressing; or chicken French with lemon sauce, linguine and green beans. Both choices include coffee and dessert.

The donation is $37.00 per person. Please mail your choice of entree, names of people you wish to sit with, and check payable to the Women’s Club of Webster to Laura Fawcett, 28 Wheatstone Circle, Fairport, NY 14450. Reservations are due by May 8. Net proceeds are donated to local charities.

The luncheon and fashion show will be held on Sunday May 19 at the Penfield Country Club, 1784 Jackson Rd., beginning at 11:30 a.m. Fashions will be presented by Chico’s. Questions can be directed to Laura at (585) 329-5317 or Bonnie Travis at (585) 671- 2345.

Also, this news from the Women’s Club of Webster: the ladies will be providing their famous cookies for the cookie table at the Red Cross blood drive, Saturday April 27 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Martin Lutheran Church, 813 Bay Rd.

Appointments for the blood drive are not required. Donors should feel free to just drop in. For more information about the blood drive, please contact Katie Houtat 585-353-9964.

It’s all about the bees

The Webster Arboretum will present a fascinating program on Tuesday April 23 when longtime Webster beekeeper Mike Kopeki will answer the question, “The Queen Must Die and Drones Too …WHY? ”  

Mike will be joined by Kevin Gorman, who raises queen honeybees, and Amy Stringer, beekeeper and owner of the North Bee honey shop in the Village of Webster. The three presenters will discuss a variety of topics all about bees and beekeeping.  

No registration or fee is required. The program will begin at 7 p.m. Meet at the Curry Building at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Road.

WHEN will host spring 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 April 27, 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. Learn more at Whendfcc.org

Special Needs Parent Resource Fair

The library will host a Special Needs Parent Resource Fair on Saturday April 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. This is especially designed for parents, guardians or caregivers looking for more information about resources and opportunities in our community for children and adults with special needs. More than 50 agencies from all around Rochester are already signed up. Click here to see the list of participants. Registration is not required unless you’d like to be reminded of the event. Click here to register.  

If you’re an organization that would like to participate, please email jennifer.paxson@libraryweb.org.

Books, books books (and all really cheap!)

The Friends of the Webster Public Library‘s spring book sale is happening April 24 to 27, with all books priced 50 cents (paperbacks) or $1 (hardcovers).

The Friends Members Night will be April 24 from 4 to 7 p.m., with the general public sale from Thursday through Saturday. Bring your own bag on Friday or Saturday and fill it for just $5,

All proceeds will benefit the Webster Public Library.  

Chicken BBQ for dinner

St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold a Drive Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday, May 4 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.

Whew. That is all. For now.

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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 4/12/2024)

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News from the Friends of Webster Trails

5 Apr

Got my quarterly newsletter from the Friends of Webster Trails (FWT) a few days ago, which is always good for a blog post. Even though I’ve been a member of the Friends for years, it always amazes me the untiring effort this group puts in every day of the year — not just in the warmer months — to not just maintain our current trails but build more.

You can read the whole newsletter here, but I’ve pulled out some tidbits which I found particularly interesting:

  • For starters, the Friends have a brand new website. The one they had before was pretty good, but this newly updated site is a big improvement. The great maps are still there, plus there are more photos, news about the trails, an interactive event calendar, and more integration with social media. (Click here to read the blog I wrote about the new site in February.)
  • Couple of opportunities to meet some of the volunteers and learn more about the Friends: on Saturday April 13, the Friends will have an information table set up at Community Arts Day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can learn about some of the plans they have for 2024 and learn more about volunteer opportunities.
  • Also on Saturday April 13, the Friends will be presenting a program on Trail History at the Webster Public Library from 11 a.m. to noon. You’ll hear a brief history of the more than 20 miles of trails in Webster, and discover some hidden gems in the trail system. Registration is requested.
  • On Saturday April 20, Earth Day, the Friends will be working at Gosnell Big Woods Preserve clearing vines and dense foliage along the split rail fence. They’ll also be doing some tree and shrub potting at the ReTree Nursery. Both projects could use a lot of hands, so check the newsletter for details about how you can help.
  • The Friends will be attending the Webster Public Library’s Summer Reading Kickoff Party on June 21 at Charles Sexton Park from 5:30 to 7 p.m. They’ll have an information table there and will be revealing a Kids Summer Reading List related to trails.
  • Denise Bilsback, Membership Chair, reports that the membership total is down a bit, but only because she cleared out some deadwood. (Hint hint: make sure you renew your subscription!) But, she says, “we continue to get a steady stream of new members monthly.” (Yay!)
  • Want an easy way to help out? The Friends need some mowers. The FWT will provide the mowers and the volunteers just need to do the mowing and put the mower back in the trailer for Parks and Rec to pick up. Should be just a few hours a month. Email contact@webstertrails.org for more information.

I didn’t even get into the individual reports from the trail stewards, most of which reported all kinds of work clearing trees, replacing boardwalks and gates, and much more. The work continues nonstop so that we all can fully enjoy the great natural resources that Webster offers.

According to a new trail counter recently purchased by the Friends, use of the trails is huge. The Bird Sanctuary Trail, for example, had more than 900 hikers during one week last December. So it’s great to hear that new members continue to join the Friends, but memberships still are a small percentage of those who actually enjoy the trails.

So please, check out the new website, and when you do, PLEASE hover over that “become a Friend” tab and drop $10 (or $15 per family) to become a member and help the Friends of Webster Trails continue to do great things for our community.

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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 4/5/2024)

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The Webster Public Library: more than meets the eye

30 Mar

I learned something really cool the other day: you can borrow snowshoes from the Webster Public Library.

SNOWSHOES!

They’re just one of 19 “Experience Kits” which the library offers for one-week loans. The kits run the gamut of indoor and outdoor activities, including how-to kits for knitting and crocheting, gardening basics, bug catching, yoga and rock collecting. But there’s also a ghost hunting kit (including an EMF meter), a metal detector, a telescope kit and a GoPro camera — and you can just BORROW any one of them!

Now, I’ve always known that the library is a pretty terrific place, but when WPL Director Adam Traub and Outreach Coordinator Jason Poole spoke at this month’s Webster Chamber of Commerce breakfast they reminded me about some pretty cool things at the library that’d I had forgotten about.

Like, next time you’re on vacation, you can borrow an Empire Pass, which will get you into any NYS Park for free. You can get VIP passes for places like Geva Theater, Corning Museum of Glass and the George Eastman House. You can even borrow a Kindle or a wifi hotspot.

So, now you know. The Webster Public Library is more than just books.

On that subject, here are a few special events coming up at the library which you might be interested in:

Community eclipse event

If you’re still not sure where you plan to settle for the once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse on April 8, consider joining the library for their Community Eclipse Event at the Webster Recreation Center. The all-ages event will feature eclipse crafts and activities, storytime, a scavenger hunt, photo booth, yoga, bounce house (weather permitting), outdoor games, raffles, refreshments, WPL eclipse merchandise, eclipse glasses for viewing, and more!

It all happens from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr. Registration is not required.

Special Needs Parent Resource Fair

The library will host a Special Needs Parent Resource Fair on Saturday April 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. This is especially designed for parents, guardians or caregivers looking for more information about resources and opportunities in our community for children and adults with special needs. More than 50 agencies from all around Rochester are already signed up. Click here to see the list of participants.

Caregivers can come any time during the time of the fair and ask questions and get information. If you’re unable to attend, information about the attending organizations will be available upon request. Registration is not required unless you’d like to be reminded of the event. Click here to register.  

If you are an organization that would like to participate, please email jennifer.paxson@libraryweb.org.

Friends of the Library Book Sale

Mark your calendars for the annual Friends of the Webster Public Library spring book sale. This year’s sale takes place April 24 to 27, with all books priced 50 cents (paperbacks) or $1 (hardcovers).

The Friends Members Night will be April 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. In addition to the great variety of gently used books at great prices, this year the Friends we have added a Mini Vintage and Collectible Book Sale only available on the Friends Members Night.  A small collection of vintage and collectible books in good to excellent condition will be available for $8 to $200. Friends memberships will be available at the door.

The General Public Sale will begin Thursday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with a bag sale on Friday, April 26 (bring your own bag and fill it for just $5). The bag sale continues Saturday April 27, from 10 a.m. to noon.

All proceeds will benefit the Webster Public Library.  

Diverse Abilities Dialogues — In-person real parent experience panel

If you’re a parent of, or caregiver for, a person with developmental disabilities, this next program might also interest you.

On Wednesday May 1 from 11 a.m. to noon, Parents Helping Parents, Challenger Miracle Field and the Webster Public Library will host a Diverse Abilities Dialogue panel presentation by parents who have children with developmental disabilities. Each parent will talk about their unique situations and answer questions. The parents are not physicians, but can speak about their practical experience dealing with every day issues. 

Panel presenters will be Brittany Jencik, Kim Dooher and Danielle Salamone from Parents Helping Parents; Beth Cunico, Director of Challenger Miracle Field; Mandy Kresge, Chair of Webster SEPTA; and Jenny Paxson from the Webster Public Library. 

Nazareth students will be on hand to offer respite care while you attend the program. 

Registration is required. Click here to register. If you can’t make it, the program will be live-streamed on YouTube and then recorded.

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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 3/30/2024)

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