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The Turkey Trot is soon! Have you signed up yet?

22 Nov

The 54th annual Webster Turkey Trot is approaching fast, but there’s still time to register.

The Turkey Trot, organized by Fleet Feet, is an annual Thanksgiving Day race which features a 2.5-mile fun run and a 4.4-mile race along roads and grassy fields in Webster Park. The race began in 1972, started by Webster cross country coach and English teacher Jim May as a practice run for his cross country team. It has since become a very large (typically around 4,000 runners), long-standing tradition in the Webster community.

The 4.4-mile 2.5 mile routes both start at the corner of Holt and Lake roads. Even if you’re not running the race, watch for traffic restrictions beginning at 8:30 a.m., impacting Lake Rd., Whiting Rd. and Holt Rd. Registration is open through Wednesday Nov. 26 at 5:45 p.m., and all new registrants will receive a cool tote bag. Plus, all participants receive a finisher medal.

Parking for racers can be a challenge, especially when we’re talking about 4,000 runners, but there will be shuttle buses running from Willink Middle School and Thomas High School from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Lots more information about the race, including how to register, the race routes, when and where to pick up your packet, parking information, and more can be found at the Webster Turkey Trot website.

Fleet Feet will also be running a donation drive for Webster Hope during packet pick-up. This is a great opportunity to show your support for our community and thankfulness for all of the blessings we enjoy — enough food on the table, a warm place to live, good health. To thank you for your donation, you’ll receive a Mystery Buck valued at 10 to 50% off any full-priced item in store at Fleet Feet.

Hope’s November wish list includes (these are the most critical needs, but all non-perishable foods are welcome):

  • Baking items- flour, sugar, cake and brownie mixes
  • Cooking oil
  • Canned peas
  • Canned pineapple
  • Canned beets
  • Canned potatoes
  • Pasta sauce
  • Pasta, whole wheat is NOT popular

Hygiene Products

  • Dish soap
  • Laundry soap
  • Any toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, shaving cream, lotion, etc.

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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 11/22/2025)

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Your inside look at what’s happening on Webster’s trails

6 Nov

I got my digital newsletter from the Friends of Webster Trails the other day. It’s my quarterly reminder about all of the amazing things this group is doing for our community, and an opportunity to share some of those things with you all.

You can read the whole newsletter for yourself here on the Friends of Webster Trails website, but here are some of the highlights:

Improvements to the Hojack Trail

If you’re a regular trail user, you’ve probably already seen all of the recent improvements made to the Hojack Trail. Thanks to a large grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Trails Maintenance Fund, over the summer months, the Friends worked hard through the summer, resurfacing the entire stretch between Holt and Drumm roads. The new surface solves a lot of recurring drainage problems, and is also suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

In the weeks since the resurfacing was completed, new bollards have been installed to prevent motorized vehicles from driving on the trail. Still to come: benches, kiosks, informational panels, new wayfinding signage and new plantings.

New Herman Rd. Trail

Back in August, the Friends officially introduced another brand new trail system, the Herman Road Forever Wild Forest, located on Herman Rd. east of Pellett Rd. The mature forest features two miles of easy and intermediate trails, which connect with the pink and orange trails at Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve. (Click here to read the blog I wrote after the ribbon-cutting.)

Trail counter program

The Friends’ trail counter program has continued apace this year. The goal of the project is to try to get a handle on how many people are actually using the trails and which trails are most popular. Knowing which trails are more heavily used, and which might then need the most care, will help the Friends target their limited maintenance funds to where they’re most needed.

The trail counting gadget is being deployed methodically across all 28 miles of trails which stretch throughout our town. The numbers they’ve seen so far are surprising. Click here to read more.

Eagle Scouts have been working hard

Here’s a quick rundown on some of the projects completed this year by our Webster Eagle Scout candidates:

  • Whiting Road Nature Preserve: Two old boardwalks were removed, new boardwalks were installed, and a new bench was added.
  • Hojack Trail at Lake Road: A new kiosk was built at the Lake Rd. trailhead, replacing one removed during the reconstruction of the trail at Lake Road.
  • Vosburg Hollow Nature Trail: The bridge over Shipbuilders Creek was replaced. It was a huge project, which you’ll read more about in another blog soon.
  • Bird Sanctuary Trail: Two benches were replaced, and a table added.
  • State Road Nature Preserve: Three new benches and a table were installed, along with three new boardwalks along the creek, and a new kiosk at the parking lot trailhead.
  • Four Mile Creek Preserve: This trail system saw some major maintenance. One puncheon section was rebuilt, another section was added, a bench was repaired, and a table was installed.

Kiosks sport new look

Speaking of kiosks, you might have noticed how the trailhead kiosks are all getting a fresh, more professional look. They’ve been newly stained and they’ll all soon include updated rules, regulations, maps and history panels.

ReTree effort

The Friends’ ReTree effort has been busy this year.

The Webster ReTree Project was begun in 2022 to address the loss of forests to insects and disease, by raising and planting a variety of native trees. Its two objectives are to improve the ecological resiliency of forested habitat and to increase public knowledge of the threats to local forest ecology. This year’s accomplishments include:

  • Potting more than 300 seedlings for the ReTree nursery
  • Planting 30 large pollinator-friendly plants along the Hojack Trail between Klem and Hard roads.  
  • Repotted seedlings as they outgrew their pots, kept the nursery weeded and watered during the very dry summer.

There was lots more in the newsletter about trail improvements made this year, including a new side trail at the Michael A. Johnson Preserve, and an extended Blue Trail and new viewing area at the State Rd. Preserve. Click here to go to the newsletter and read more about all of these great enhancements.

And don’t forget about the Hot Cocoa Hike this Saturday Nov. 8. This year’s evening hike is at Finn Park at 7 p.m., just days after the full Beaver Moon, so the conditions should be excellent! Register online so they know how much cocoa to make, and bring your own cup and flashlight.

Click here to read more about it and to register.

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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 11/6/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

29 Oct

A few new things and a few reminders in today’s mailbag.

Calling the R.L. Thomas Class of 1970!

Your 55 year reunion is happening this Saturday, Nov. 1, and if you haven’t signed up yet, it’s not too late.

The reunion will take place at Finn Park on Maple Dr., from 2 to 11 p.m. p.m. Cost is $20 which includes a food truck ticket. Please bring an appetizer or dessert to share. To sign up, email rlt1970alumni@gmail.com.

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The Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters will host their 2025 indoor craft sale on Saturday Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr. They’re expecting more than 40 vendors.

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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.

Tickets are now on sale for the Village of Webster’s annual Bourbon Bash, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Harmony House, 58 East Main St. Taste local and national bourbons along with food samplings from Village of Webster restaurants.

Tickets are $35 plus an Eventbrite fee, and can be ordered here. This event usually sells out, so get your tickets soon. This is a 21+ event. Valid ID will be required.

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The Friends of Webster Trails will host their annual Hot Cocoa Hike on Saturday Nov. 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Finn Park, 850 Maple Dr.

Kids and adults alike are welcome to this family-friendly hike. It’s a little over a mile long (start to finish) and will include a stop for hot cocoa. The trail will start at the right-hand side of the building by the kiosk. There will be lights along the way. This is not a guided event. You are responsible for finding your way to the hot cocoa and back by following the marked path.

Participants are asked to leave the parking lot between 7 and 8 p.m., to arrive at the hot cocoa stop by 8:30 p.m. Please leave your dog at home; you can bring them back to enjoy the trail another time. Please bring a flashlight and your own travel mug. This is a carry-in carry out event.

There’s no cost, but please register here so the Friends know how many people to expect.

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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, 1350 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.

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This note doesn’t relate directly to Webster but it’s kind of interesting. Apparently every year the members of the Rochester Amateur Radio Association participate in what they call their “Pumpkin Patrol” in support of the New York State Police. On Oct. 30 and 31 they monitor Thruway overpasses in Monroe County to prevent vandalism. The “hams” have been providing this service for more than 30 years and there have been no reports of any serious vandalism from overpasses to vehicles traveling on the Thruway since the Patrol began.

So keep an eye out for them and maybe give them a little beep to show your support.

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Here’s a quick follow-up from the recent Embrace Your Sisters Walk which I wrote about in August. It was held on Oct. 5 at Pittsford Sutherland High School and apparently was quite successful, raising a whopping $25,654, surpassing the organization’s $25,000 goal.

The funds will be added to the more than $700,000 which has already been distributed during the Embrace Your Sisters’ 19 years. People with breast cancer across our 13-county area have benefited from these funds, which paid outstanding living expenses. If you know someone who could benefit from the Embrace Your Sisters short-term emergency funds, please have them visit the website for more information.

Here’s something you want to put on your calendar for December:

The Country Gardeners of Webster will hold their annual Garden Club Holiday Sale on Saturday December 6 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Drive.

This huge sale features fresh wreaths, arrangements, poinsettias, centerpieces and gifts that are created by hand by the club members. This is always a very popular event, so you want to get there early.

The Webster Arboretum will also be there with an information table, and some large raffle baskets. Plus, their 2026 membership cards and new 2026 calendar will be available or purchase.

The sale is the Country Gardeners’ annual fundraiser, so think about decorating your own home, and purchasing gifts for family, friends and holiday hostesses. Admission is free.

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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 10/29/2025)

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Great friends, great races, great fun

23 Oct

Most of you know by now that I consider myself a runner, and as part of the Webster Village Runners, I run every Tuesday night with a group of fellow running and walking enthusiasts. (We meet at Ploty’s. Join us!) I like to feature this group in my blog every once in a while, because it’s just a terrific bunch of people, and I have so much fun with them.

Occasionally we participate as a “team” at different races around town, and today I’d like to highlight two recent ones.

The first took place last Friday afternoon Oct. 17 at the Rochester Rotary Sunshine Camp in Rush. Sponsored by the Rochester Rotary every year, it was called the Trail Mix 5K and Beer Fest, and took runners along wooded paths and walkways for three miles through and around this beautiful facility. And true to its name, after the race, runners were treated to a real festival, where perhaps a dozen Rochester-area breweries handed out generous samples of their beers. Plus there was live music and dancing and prizes, old friends and new. It was great.

I signed up for this race in large part because I knew it was a worthy cause, and I like to support worthy causes. I knew a little about Sunshine Camp, which is a fully-accessible residential summer camp for children with physical challenges. But I didn’t know a whole lot about it and was intrigued to think that the property was big enough and wooded enough for an actual 5k trail run. It most definitely was, and I discovered that the trails were just a small part of this incredible camp.

I learned that Rotary Sunshine is a 157-acre camp, a magical place where more than 2,500 children and young adults with special needs come to every summer just to … well, be kids … without worrying about wheelchairs, medications, or being “different.” Along the trails I ran by a tree house, climbing wall, zip line, splash pad, playground, a lake — and an actual TRAIN! It’s like a child’s magical dream, where the most fun things you can imagine are all in one place.

About 120 runners participated that day, ages 6 to 84, and the money raised through our entry fees went straight to support Sunshine Camp. I did OK (not a big fan of trail racing); I took second in my age group and came home with a medal. (Of course, there were only two in my age group.) The post-race music and beer and snacks were excellent.

Well done, Rochester Rotary. I’ll be back next year.

This next Webster Village Runners team event took place just two days later at the inaugural Boos and Brews 5K held at Charles Sexton Park last Sunday morning.

About 160 runners and walkers participated, which was pretty good given it was just the first time it was held in the Rochester area. It was a perfect autumn day and the park was in full color. Runners were encouraged to wear costumes, and there were some really cute ones. And two Village Runners got to put on some ghoul masks and jump out and scare the runners. A portion of the proceeds was donated to the Friends of Webster Trails.

After the race, runners were encouraged to meet for some socializing at the Mary Wee Pub, where owner Mark Petzing offered drink specials for the participants (thanks, Mark!). I made some new friends and even recruited a new Village Runner.

It was lots of fun, especially being with my Village Runner friends, and I’m already looking forward to next year.

Here’s a slideshow from the day:

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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 10/23/2025)

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Discovering the Herman Rd. Forever Wild Forest

10 Aug

I do believe I have a new favorite trail.

Most of my friends and acquaintances know that I’m a huge fan of our town’s trails. And when they ask me what my favorite trail system is, I invariably say it’s Four Mile Creek, which I love because of its natural beauty and the old cars that you can see along the paths.

But last week, the Friends of Webster Trails introduced me to the Herman Rd. Forever Wild Forest — and it is beautiful.

Last Tuesday, the Friends hosted an official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new trail system, which is located on Herman Rd. east of Pellett Rd. The mature forest features two miles of easy and intermediate trails, some which were pre-existing, and others which were built and improved by the Friends. They connect with the pink and orange trails at Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve. allowing hikers to extend their adventure. Frequent blazes and trail markers make navigating the trails especially easy.

The two-year-long effort to preserve the land and create the trail system is an incredible example of how residents, businesses, local organizations and governmental agencies can work together for the good of the community.

The 28.7-acre parcel of land was acquired in late 2023 from Gary and Judy Wood, thanks to a $270,000 Community Forest Conservation Grant from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), procured by the Town of Webster, and a donation in memory of Michael A. Johnson. About 35 people attended the ribbon cutting ceremony, including Judy Wood and representatives from the Friends of Webster Trails, the NYS DEC and Webster Parks and Recreation.

After a few speeches and the cutting of the ribbon, Herman Rd. Trail Steward Ben Wisniewski led about a dozen hikers on a one-mile long walk along a few of the beautiful new trails. There were a few small hills, but in general it was an easy hike that snaked through old and new forest, thick with more than a dozen varieties of trees. Small animals skittered across the path, and birdsong filled the air. It was extremely peaceful.

A well-designed informational kiosk enhances the experience, providing lots of information about the preserve and its trail system. Plus, there’s plenty of parking.

The Friends of Webster Trails website has lots more information about each of the preserve’s four trails, including their difficulty and some of the natural features you can look for along the hike. There’s even mention of “hidden treasures”: a half-buried car engine, an old cistern, and a stone foundation.

So check out the website, then head on out to enjoy the new trails for yourself. And if you really like what you see, please consider supporting the Friends of Webster Trails by becoming a member. It’s only $10 for individuals and $15 for families. Your support will really help the Friends continue building and maintaining outstanding trails like 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 8/10/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

7 Aug

Today’s mailbag is stuffed with reminders about many events I’ve already mentioned in the blog, but which might have slipped under your radar the first time.

This first one is coming up this Saturday Aug. 9, a “Hike Through History” at Webster Union Cemetery. This is a self-guided tour in which participants can step back in time and “meet” the some of our town’s earliest settlers. Historical re-enactors will be sprinkled throughout the cemetery to tell their stories from Webster’s earliest days. 

Hike Through History will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the cemetery, 345 Webster Rd. (corner of Rt 250 and Woodhull Road). Requested donation for the experience is $10, and all proceeds will be used to help repair the headstones of our earliest settlers. Read more about the event in this blog.

Take a test drive, win cool stuff

Also this Saturday, Aug. 9, West Herr Ford at 810 Ridge Rd. (corner of Five Mile Line) is hosting a Test Drive Fundraising Event from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., to benefit the Webster Community Chest.

For every person who registers and takes a quick test drive, West Herr will donate $40 to Webster Community Chest. If 50 people sign up and drive, that means a cool $2,000 for one of Webster’s coolest agencies. Every person who test drives will get a raffle ticket for a chance to win Buffalo Bills merchandise and other prizes. Plus, lunch (or coffee and donuts) will be provided.

No appointment is necessary. Just walk in, and choose from a whole line-up of cars and trucks (or they’ll bring out something else off the lot if you want). Just hop in, take a short drive, return and hop out. No hard sales, no obligation. Takes about 15 minutes.

Marching Band Food Truck Rodeo

The Webster Marching Band Boosters will host their 9th Annual Food Truck Rodeo on Thursday, Aug. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Fireman’s Field on Sanford St.

Participating trucks include Bruster’s, Eat Greek, Macarollin, Mr. Squeeze, Rob’s Kabobs, Roc City Sammich and Tuscan Wood Fired Pizza. The event will also feature artisan vendors, a kids’ play place, face painting, plus a 50/50 and vendor raffles. Guests will also get a preview of this year’s Webster Marching Band show, “In Times Of” at 6 and 7 p.m.

Strike up the band

Our very own Webster Village Band will perform their final concert of the summer on Thursday Aug. 28 at the Harmony Park band shell on Phillips Rd. Titled “The Band Concert,” the selections will be traditional band standards, plus music from Billy Joel and Jim Brickman.

The concert begins at 7 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs and a cooler, and stretch out on the spacious lawn area in front of the band shell.

Donate school supplies

Webster NY Hope is collecting NEW supplies from now through Aug. 19 to stuff in backpacks for children in our community who are in need. You can see the entire wish list on the Webster NY Hope Facebook page.

Supplies can be dropped off at the Webster Public Library, or at Webster Hope during the agency’s open hours, Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Music at the Arb

This summer’s final Music at the Arb concert at the Webster Arboretum is scheduled for Thursday Aug. 14, featuring the String Brothers from 6:30 to 8 p.m. These concerts are held at the gazebo, and are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. The Arboretum is located at 1700 Schlegel Rd.

More from the Arboretum

The Webster Arboretum will present their next educational program, all about Dahlias, on Tuesday Sept. 9 from 7 to 8 p.m.

The program will be presented by Patty Pirz, a local expert on the subject. Discover the culture, type, variety and care of the beloved dahlia. Learn how to grow and nurture these plants to their best advantage. It will be held in the Curry Building at the Arboretum, and is free and open to the public, but registration is requested.

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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 8/7/2025)

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Village Beer Walk just got better

6 Aug

Of all the special events that take place every summer in the Village of Webster, the Beer Walk is one of my favorites. It’s always a great opportunity to get together with my closest friends, wander through the village, sample some great brews, and laugh A. LOT.

This year, the walk is better than ever. It’s scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6, and not only will we be able to sample beer, cider and food from local businesses, but the Webster Business Improvement District (BID) — which hosts the walk — has organized a car show the same day, on West Main St. A variety of cars will be on display, from classic cars to hot rods. Both events take place from 4 to 7 p.m.

BUT THERE’S MORE! Also that day, Sept. 6 from noon to 5 p.m., the Red Hot and Blue Band will host their annual St. Jude’s Benefit Concert. This year they’ll be joined by Sarah De Vallière and The Tug Hill Band.

The BID is calling the whole day their “Fall Kickoff Event,” a whole afternoon and evening of entertainment and fun in the village.

The car show is free, and the concert is free (but donations will be accepted). Tickets are not yet available for the Beer Walk, but when they are, they’ll be available here.

Lots of other events coming up in the next many weeks, including:

– On Sunday, Aug. 17, Kittelberger Florist will host a Summer Roots Family Event from noon to 4 p.m. at the store on Orchard St. The whole street will be closed off, because this is going to be a huge event. There’ll be live music by Yacht Club, food trucks, face painting, a petting zoo, a balloon artist, a family activity from the Webster Public Library, and giant yard games.

More details to come. Visit the Kittelberger Facebook page for more details.

– The next Friday Night concert in Gazebo Park is August 22, featuring Eight Days a Week, Webster’s favorite Beatles band. It begins at 7 p.m., and you’ll want to get there early for this one. There’s no charge. Sips & Scoops ice cream truck should be there that night as well.

– The Webster Jazz Festival returns with Jazz in the Pubs on Friday Aug. 15 and Jazz on the Street on Saturday Aug. 16. Check my earlier blog for details.

– M/Body is still offering complimentary Community Yoga & Pilates classes at Gazebo Park on North Ave., every Saturday through Sept. 6 from 10 to 11 a.m. The classes are free, but participants need to register in advance here. Bring your own mat and water. In the case of inclement weather, this class will be canceled. However, participants are welcomed to sign up for M/Body’s in-studio yoga class that runs at the same time.

Coming up this fall in the village:

  • Saturday, September 13: Shredding Event & Health Fair 
  • Saturday, October 25: Trick-or-Treat Trail  
  • Saturday, November 22: Bourbon Bash 
  • Saturday, December 6: Winter Wonderland in the Village

Details to come soon about all of these. Stay on top of things by checking the BID website regularly.

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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 8/5/2025)

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More than just books: Webster Library launches weekly walking club

25 Jul

The Webster Public Library has always been a hub for lifelong learning, filled with book clubs, storytimes, lectures, creative workshops and educational opportunities designed to keep your mind engaged. But now, it’s taking things a step further — literally. A new walking program is putting physical wellness on the agenda, recognizing that staying mentally sharp is easier when your body is active, too.

The Library Walking Club kicked off about two months ago and meets every Tuesday at 2 p.m. Led by library assistants Lee Cooney and Maggie Gibson, the group takes an at-your-own-pace walk around Webster. The hour-long strolls begin and end at the library and follow a route that’s manageable for all ages and ability levels. So far, that’s usually meant a walk along the Rt. 104 bike path from Hard Road to Holt Road and back.

“We aim for the least amount of traffic engagement,” Lee said. “The path is paved and for the most part reasonably kept up,” which makes it accessible for everyone. Having two staff members on hand also allows the group to spread out while still staying connected. “We do try to be mindful of everyone’s pace,” Lee added.

As the program grows, Lee and Maggie are exploring other routes to keep things fresh. For example, a few weeks ago the walk included a stop for Bruster’s ice cream, and just last week, the group explored the Hickory Bark Trail in the wooded area behind the library.

But wherever the trail leads, the goal remains simple: “Keep moving, meet new people, and have a good time together,” Lee said.

The Webster Public Library Walking Club continues every Tuesday at 2 p.m. through Sept. 20. Walks are held rain or shine (“Some people actually like walking in the rain,” Lee noted), unless conditions are unsafe. The program is free, and no registration is required; just meet in the library’s main lobby. If a walk needs to be canceled, updates will be posted on the library’s calendar, Facebook page, and a sign in the lobby. You can also call 585-872-7075 with questions.

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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 7/25/2025)

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Miracle Field’s Heroes Helping Heroes Day returns this weekend

24 Jul

Sometimes really cool events just sneak under my radar. Yesterday, though, I had the great pleasure of chatting for a few minutes with Ron Kampff of Rochester Challenger Miracle Field, who reminded me about what’s happening over there this weekend.

And this is such a cool event that I definitely did not want to miss promoting it.

It’s called Heroes Helping Heroes Day, an annual event that combines baseball, Miracle Field athletes and first responders in a fun and inspirational morning of sports and friendship.

This year’s Heroes Day takes place at Miracle Field, 100 Ridge Rd., Webster, this Saturday July 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local first responders spend the morning at Miracle Field, playing with and against some of our amazing Challenger athletes. In addition to the entertaining baseball games, and the chance to meet some local first responders and get a close-up look at some of their equipment, there’ll be food, the Seneca Park ZooMobile, a dunk tank, obstacle course and lots more.

This is a great morning of safe family fun. There’s no charge, and there’s plenty of parking. To find out more, visit www.rochestermiraclefield.org.

About Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester  

Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester provides people with developmental, physical or intellectual disabilities a barrier free, safe, accessible place to experience the health benefits and joy of play through baseball, other team sports, and adaptive recreational equipment.

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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 7/24/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

16 Jul

Today’s mailbag is going to be a long one, so buckle up, my friends.

These first few events are coming up fast — like Thursday and Friday — so I want to let them know about them up front.

Listen to music, smell the flowers

The next free Music at the Arb concert at the Webster Arboretum is scheduled for Thursday July 17, featuring the acoustic duo  Chelsey Berry and Mark Cellura, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

These concerts are held at the gazebo, and audience members are encouraged to spread out on blankets or in lawn chairs to enjoy some delightful music, surrounded by the beauty of the arboretum. The concerts are free and open to the public, and no registration is necessary. Snacks will be available with proceeds benefiting the Arboretum.

Sip and shop

Also happening Thursday evening, a special event brought to you by Lala of Webster and Jojo Bistro, which they’re calling “Fine Tastings,” to benefit the Al Sigl Center.

From 5 to 7 p.m., sip while you shop, and shop while you sip, while enjoying light fare from Jojo Bistro and music by iSteel Music.

Lala of Webster is located at 38 East Main St. in the Village of Webster.

Music at another gazebo

The Village of Webster’s Friday Night Concert series begins this Friday July 18. The first concert features the Earthtones, who play 70’s/80’s music including favorites from Fleetwood Mac, Billy Joel, Grateful Dead, Talking Heads, Tom Petty and others.

Upcoming concerts include:

Concerts are held at the Village’s Gazebo Park, located at 28 North Avenue. All concerts start at 7 p.m.. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a night of free music under the stars.

More information about these concerts and all the other exciting Village of Webster events coming up this summer and fall (including the Jazz Festival, Beer Walk and Bourbon Bash, Trick-or-Treat Trail and more) can be found at websterbid.com.

More from the Arboretum

The next informational program hosted by the Webster Arboretum is called “Honoring Life — One Frog at a Time,” scheduled for Saturday July 19 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Join Margot Fass, M.D., the “Frog Lady,” and discover the life of our friend the frog. And before you come, check out Margot’s whimsical book, Froggy Family’s First Frolic. The presentation will be held outside on the far side of the pond at the Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. There’s no charge, but registration is requested.

And even MORE music

The United Church of Christ‘s next Caring Community Concert is scheduled for Wednesday July 23, featuring Allegro, Western New York’s premier party band. It will benefit the Webster Health and Education Network.

The concerts all begin at 6:30 p.m., and food concessions begin at 6. People are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets and a picnic if they wish. The concerts are held on the United Church of Christ’s front lawn, at 570 Klem Rd., so bring a blanket and chairs. (In case of rain it’s moved indoors.)

The remainder of this summer’s schedule includes:

For more information about the concerts, click here.

Summer family fun from the Rec Center

This summer more than ever we need this: the Webster Recreation Center’s annual Summer Splash, scheduled for Saturday July 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the First Responders Spray Park on Chiyoda Dr.

Rich the Magic Man will be there with foam bubble fun, and free slushies will be provided courtesy Gleason Orthodontics (while supplies last). The event is free and open to all, and no registration is needed.

Old books at great prices

The Friends of the Webster Public Library will host a Vintage and Collectible Book Sale on Saturday July 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the library’s Community Room. The sale features fourteen tables of books, many with titles available for the first time. Most books are under $20. Proceeds from the sale support Webster Public Library.

In other news from the library, this month’s Community Exchange is jewelry. Bring in some items you don’t wear anymore, and swap them out for something new! And July’s Donation Station is accepting hygiene products for underprivileged and disabled seniors.

This month’s drop-in crafts tables will feature camping. Two sessions will be held, Friday and Saturday July 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No registration is needed, and all ages are welcome.

And this looks like fun: this month’s Family Fun Night is a scavenger hunt, scheduled for Monday July 31 from 6 to 7 p.m. Start in the storytime room, where you’ll get your instructions, then follow the clues on a scavenger hunt through the library. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.

These events are just a few of the great things happening at the library in July. To keep on top of all of them every month, click here to subscribe to the Webster Public Library newsletter. (Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the sign-up link.)

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(posted 7/16/2025)

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