Archive | Schools RSS feed for this section

Community Arts Day is coming up!

5 Mar

It’s a sure sign of spring (even more so than the unbelievably spring-like weather we’ve been having): Community Arts Day (CAD) is coming up fast.

I’m sure you already know about this great family event which takes place every April. It’s basically a show-off day for our district’s schools, showcasing the musical and artistic talents of our Webster School District K-12 students. It was created as a collaborative effort to raise money to encourage and enhance fine arts programs throughout the district. This year’s event is Saturday April 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Webster Schroeder High School.

In addition to the art displays, it’s also a great opportunity for community groups to set up tables and spread the word about their organizations. The fee for participation and space rental is $30 (payable at the time of registration) plus an additional fee of $30 for selling vendors. Click here for more details and to register.

New home for those old instruments

I’ll be posting a whole lot more about Community Arts Day in the coming weeks (it is literally one of my favorite events of the year), but I did recently find out about this great new addition to CAD 2024:

This year, the Webster Central PTSA is partnering with the WCSD Music Department to offer a Used Instrument Donation Drive, an opportunity for families to donate their gently used instruments to students who aren’t easily able to afford a new instrument.

The Concert Wear/Coat Drive the WCPTSA does every fall is so successful, this seemed like another wonderful way to help those in need, while spreading the love of music. The school district will cover the cost of repairing any instruments that need repair.

A table will be set up at Community Arts Day where families can drop off their unused instruments, so keep an eye out for it!

Also new at this year’s Community Arts Day

And this is breaking news: I’ll also be setting up a table at Community Arts Day! If you’ve ever wanted to meet me, find out more about my blog, or have a great story idea, please watch for me and stop by.

More details about this later as well.

* * *

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 3/5/2024)

Tags: , , ,

Webster community mailbag

2 Mar

Strap in, folks, ’cause this is a long one.

Good food for a good cause

Boy Scout Troop 262 will be hosting their “Famous Spaghetti Dinner” on Saturday March 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Webster Firemen’s Exempt Bldg. on Sanford St.

Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children under 10. You can eat in or take out. And bring extra cash for the bake sale!

News from the Friends of Webster Trails

The Friends of Webster Trails, working with the Village of Webster, are proud to introduce the newly updated informational kiosk where the Hojack Trail meets 250 (North Ave.).

The kiosk was built by Eagle Scout Alex Groff in 2018, and for some years it held temporary postings. But recently, the Village gave the kiosk a professional makeover and it looks great. On one side is an aerial photo of the area from years ago, provided by the Webster Museum, which shows some prominent industries. QR codes are provided if you want to find out even more. On the other side is a map from about the same time, and more photos. It all illustrates the reason for the Hojack railroad and its importance to the area.

New swag at the Museum

If you love the Webster Museum, you’re going to love the new promotional items they’ve just introduced. There’s a nice selection of new mugs and caps, which join an already impressive variety of fun, museum-themed merchandise including stickers, t-shirts, water bottles, aprons, bags and more. (I know you want a WLiWL sticker.)

Click here to see the whole collection. You can’t buy this new merchandise online, so stop by and visit the museum at 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster. They’re open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Carlsen named CWZ Elementary PE Teacher of the Year

Webster CSD is proud to announce that Danielle Carlsen has been selected as the 2024 Central Western Zone Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. 

The State Road Elementary School PE teacher was recommended for the award by one of her colleagues who felt that Carlsen exemplifies a true professional in the field of physical education at the elementary school level. 

Petitions available for BOE candidates

The Webster CSD Budget Vote and Election of Candidates is Tuesday, May 21 at Webster Schroeder High School. Anyone wishing to run for the board of education (BOE) may pick up a nominating packet from the district clerk’s office, 119 South Avenue, Webster, any weekday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Petitions must be returned to the district clerk’s office no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, April 22. The two candidates receiving the highest number of votes will each serve three-year terms beginning July 1.

Questions about candidacy or eligibility may be referred to District Clerk Heather Murphy at (585) 216 0001 or heather_murphy@webstercsd.org.

Here are some important dates to remember:

  • April 16: BOE adopts budget to be put before voters, 6 p.m.
  • May 7: Public hearing on proposed 2024-25 budget, 6 p.m.
  • May 21: WCSD Budget Vote and Election of Candidates; polls open 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Webster Schroeder High School gym, 875 Ridge Road.

Webster Chamber of Commerce invites you

The Webster Chamber of Commerce has two events coming up this month, and business owners are all welcome, whether you’re a member of the Chamber or not.

On Wednesday March 6, the next Webster Chamber Eat Drink & Connect will be hosted by Chamber member Monroe Piping & Sheet Metal.

Network with Chamber members and visitors while enjoying refreshments and door prizes. A brief introduction to the business world of Monroe Piping & Sheet Metal will also be provided by the owner and Chamber board director Dan Dunn.

This great networking event will be held at the Webster Chamber office, 1110 Crosspointe Lane (Suite C), from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There’s no cost, but preregistration is requested. Please register here.

Then, coming up on Friday March 22 is the next Monthly Breakfast Program meeting. Network with an many as 90 business and organizational leaders during the monthly Webster Chamber breakfasts. 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. Please register here.

A few reminders

Here are some reminders about events I’ve already mentioned in a previous mailbag, but want to make sure you remember them.

  • The Thomas vs. Schroeder Charity Basketball Game will be this Wednesday night March 6 at Webster Thomas High School, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The family-friendly event will pit Thomas/OWL staff and faculty against Schroeder/GOAL staff and faculty in a friendly winner-take-all-bragging-rights game. Concessions will be available. Admission is only $5 (suggested donation), and all proceeds will benefit Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester.  Additional donations would be greatly appreciated as well.
  • The next general meeting and luncheon for the Women’s Club of Webster will be held on Thursday March 21 at the Penfield Country Club, 1784 Jackson Rd. Janine Sanger, Executive Director of WHEN:DFCC, Webster Health and Education Network will be this month’s speaker. The event begins with a social mix-and-mingle at 11:15 a.m., followed by a brief meeting at noon and lunch at 12:30 p.m., and the presentation. The cost is $24. Send your check made out to WCW by March 14 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Questions? Phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303.
  • The Friends of the Webster Public Library will hold its third annual Vintage and Collectible Book Sale on Thursday March 21 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The books are priced between $8 and $200. (Prices are firm.) A variety of books on Rochester, World War II, poetry, sports, movies, religion, classics, biographies, juvenile and adult fiction will be available. Many of the books are rare, unusual and in good to better condition. All proceeds from the event will benefit programs of the Webster Public Library.

* * *

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 3/2/2024)

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

8-year old Webster boy raises awareness about rare diseases

1 Mar
Lukas reads his book with help from his mother, Suzanne

Thursday, February 29, 2024 was a leap year day. We all know that. But you may not know that Thursday was also Rare Disease Day, an observance held on the last day of February every year to raise awareness for rare diseases.

This year, since Rare Disease Day landed on February 29, the rarest day on our calendar, it took on extra significance. That was especially the case for a young DeWitt Rd. Elementary School student, who celebrated the day in a special way.

Eight-year old Lukas Urbanski, a student in Amy Woeller’s DeWitt Rd. third-grade class, commemorated Rare Disease Day by sharing with his class a book he’d written about his own rare disease. Sitting in the front of the room during “morning meeting” time, surrounded by his classmates, invited guests and his parents, Lukas read his autobiography, The Story of Me.

In the book, Lukas explains that he has CLIFAHDD, a syndrome which affects only 100 kids worldwide. He writes how he often has to go to the hospital, describes the different medical procedures he has to endure, and the special equipment he uses to help him through the day.

More than 140 photos splashed across the 27-page book illustrate Lukas’ journey. In several, EEG leads are attached to his head; in others, his head is wrapped in bandages, he’s wearing a mask which helps him breathe at night, or he’s sitting in a wheelchair.

Lukas’ mother Suzanne Engel said that in addition to raising awareness for rare diseases, the book is designed to demystify Lukas’ issues, and help his classmates understand that “everyone is unique and different, and we all need different supports.”

Creating a book was the ideal way to share that message. “Lukas spends a significant amount of time in the library and he loves to read,” Suzanne said. “When we started talking about how to tell his class about what he needs, it kind of seemed natural that it would be a book.”

But Lukas’ story doesn’t begin and end with his medical procedures. That’s why the first half of the book is filled with photos illustrating how, in many ways, Lukas is very much the same as his third-grade classmates.

There are pictures of Lukas riding a horse, visiting his family, and eating ice cream. He’s at amusement parks, baking and celebrating a birthday. And there are lots of photos of Lukas with his friends at school. They’re all great illustrations of how we’re all different, but we’re also the same in so many ways.

Writing the book and reading it to his classmates, however, wasn’t the only way that Lukas helped spread the word about rare diseases. Earlier in the month, Lukas approached several local businesses, asking for their support to bring awareness to rare diseases. As a result, Ridge Donuts, Schutt’s Apple Mill and Secret Ingredient Cupcakery all baked special zebra-colored cupcakes and donuts which they sold on Feb. 29. (The beautiful but unusual zebra is the symbol of Rare Disease Day.) All proceeds supported rare disease research.

“Lukas has captured the heart of the bakeries,” Suzanne said. “He’s created such a connection with the community. It warms your heart to see the community being so wonderful in recognizing rare diseases.”

Lukas with his father Dave and mother Suzanne
Channels 8 and 13 both covered the event. Click here for Channel 8’s coverage and here for Channel 13.

* * *

How you can help

Rare diseases don’t get the kind of attention or research dollars as do more common diseases. So, faced with the challenges of finding treatment for their son, and at the urging of a doctor at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, in 2023, Lukas’ parents Suzanne Engel and Dave Urbanski partnered with a family in Texas to found the Channeling Hope Foundation. Supported by a global network of NALCN scientists and a small but mighty community of affected families, the Channeling Hope Foundation works to advance care and develop treatments for children affected by NALCN genetic disorders.

For more information about the Channeling Hope Foundation and how you can help the cause, click here.

* * *

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 3/1/2024)

Tags: , , ,

Webster community mailbag

22 Feb

A Thomas vs. Schroeder high school basketball game is always highly competitive and definitely worth watching. But the one happening in a few weeks should be … well, interesting, and dare I say, a little short on actual basketball talent.

It’s a Charity Basketball Game, scheduled for Wednesday night March 6 at Webster Thomas High School.

The family-friendly event will pit Thomas/OWL staff and faculty against Schroeder/GOAL staff and faculty in a friendly winner-take-all-bragging-rights game. The school’s Resource Officers will officiate, so it will (well, SHOULD) be a clean game. Halftime activities will include some super fun competitions between Thomas/OWL students and Schroeder/GOAL students. Concessions will be available.

Admission is only $5 (suggested donation), and all proceeds will benefit Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester.  Additional donations would be greatly appreciated as well.

The game will be played in the gymnasium at Webster Thomas High School, 800 Five Mile Line Rd. on Wednesday March 6 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Enter on the east side of the building, near the field house.

The next general meeting and luncheon for the Women’s Club of Webster will be held on Thursday March 21 at the Penfield Country Club, 1784 Jackson Rd.

Janine Sanger, Executive Director of WHEN:DFCC, Webster Health and Education Network will be this month’s speaker. WHEN is a network of Webster community members linked through awareness, education and action. It connects Webster residents to reliable resources with programs providing youth engagement, community education, parent outreach, advocacy and community training,

The event begins with a social mix-and-mingle at 11:15 a.m., followed by a brief meeting at noon and lunch at 12:30 p.m. followed by the presentation.

Lunch will feature a Turkey Melt, Reuben or Crispy Chicken sandwich, plus coffee, tea, cold drinks, fresh fruit and a cookie. The cost is $24. Send your check made out to WCW by March 14 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Questions? Phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303.

New members are always welcome.

The Friends of the Webster Public Library will hold its third annual Vintage and Collectible Book Sale on Thursday March 21 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The books are priced between $8 and $200. (Prices are firm.) A variety of books on Rochester, World War II, poetry, sports, movies, religion, classics, biographies, juvenile and adult fiction will be available. Many of the books are rare, unusual and in good to better condition. All proceeds from the event will benefit programs of the Webster Public Library.

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

Here’s another option for the upcoming solar eclipse, this one an invitation from the Webster Arboretum, on Schlegel Rd.:

The Arboretum is planning a day-long event on Eclipse Day, April 8, beginning at 11 a.m., when the Curry building will be open with complimentary hot and cold beverages. A poetry reading begins at noon, featuring Jennifer Maloney and Jonathan Everitt, who will share some of their original works. Afterwards, community members will be invited to present some of their own poetry.

The eclipse itself will begin at about 2:07 p.m., and community members are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs, blankets and solar eclipse glasses to relax and enjoy the event surrounded by the beautifully landscaped park, away from noise and light pollution. By about 3:20 p.m., the sun will be completely covered for 3 minutes and 38 seconds. By 4:30, the show will be over.

In the case of inclement weather, the readings will be moved to the Curry building.

* * *

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 2/22/2024)

Tags: , , , , , ,

Challenger Learning Center a far-out experience for Webster 5th graders

20 Feb

I went to Mars with some Klem South Elementary students a few weeks ago. … Well, to be completely accurate, the students went to Mars and I just went along for the ride.

The Mission to Mars took place at the Kodak Center in Rochester, home to the Challenger Learning Center.

The Challenger Center for Space Science Education was established in 1986 following the Challenger Space Shuttle tragedy. The crew’s family members came together, committed to carrying on the spirit of their loved ones by continuing their education mission. They created the Challenger Learning Center as a place that would inspire children and spark an interest in exploring STEM careers. Rochester’s Challenger Center opened in 1991, originally housed at the RMSC Planetarium. In the summer of 2019, it moved to Kodak Center.

The mission on this particular day was assigned to Meredith Haydanek’s fifth grade class, who were very excited to slip into their official Mission to Mars uniforms, and listened intently as Mission Commanders Andy Raab and Lauren Raines presented the challenges they’d be facing.

The two-hour mission began with a “live broadcast” from the surface of Mars, where the astronauts spoke directly to the students, describing life in their habitat, complaining about how bad the food is, showing off their new Mars Rover, and especially mentioning how homesick they were. Expertly interwoven with scripted comments and questions from the Mission Commanders, it was easy to believe the astronauts were really there.

The students were tasked with two very important jobs: building and landing a probe to determine where the next Mars colony should be built, and, more importantly, retrieving four astronauts who had been stationed there for two years. Each student was assigned a different scientific workstation and had to collaborate with all of their other classmates to successfully complete the objectives. They’d also have to use their problem-solving skills as they faced several challenges, including meteor showers, sandstorms and system malfunctions.

The students were split into two teams, one assigned to the Explorer 2 spaceship which would take off for Mars, the other to Mission Control, who worked in a separate laboratory.

And that’s when the teamwork began.

Angel Beaty-Cortez gets some help from Mission Commander Andy Raab
Caden Hall gets some hands-on advice at the glove box from Mission Commander Lauren Raines

Once they were settled into their stations, the students started to work on their assigned tasks, outlined on clipboards placed near their stations. Some worked at computers. Others built a Mars rover prototype, created circuitry, examined rocks in a glove box, calculated an intercept course for Mars, or a dozen other tasks. As they worked, they regularly received vital information which they needed to relay to their teammates next door, who at the same time were relaying vital information to them. The communication team was kept very busy relaying critical messages back and forth between the teams.

In no time the rooms were abuzz with activity and chatter, every single student hyper-focused on their task at hand.

Apparently they did it all quite well. The mission is successful, with both mission goals were accomplished. The probe successfully landed on Mars, and the four astronauts occupying Mars Outpost Alpha Habitat were rescued and returned home to Earth. 

Rochester’s Challenger Center is one of 40 centers worldwide, and one of only three in Western New York, so it draws schools from all over the Rochester and Finger Lakes region. Webster CSD, through Monroe One BOCES, has been sending students to the center since it was established. In the beginning, only Dewitt Rd., Plank North and Klem North elementary schools attended. During the COVID pandemic, the district opted for ALL the elementary schools to participate in newly developed Virtual Mission. Once school was fully back in session and field trips were back on track, the Center convinced the district to allow for all fifth graders to attend in-person.  

Teachers and parent chaperones always remark that the Center is Rochester’s “best kept secret,” and kids say it’s the “best field trip ever!”  It’s really all about fun, and the best kind of fun is when you don’t realize you’re learning something and practicing important skills while you’re doing it.

And here are fifth grade kids having FUN following directions, doing experiments, collaborating with their classmates, communicating, persevering and showing resilience, all the while practicing math and science skills. How can fun get any better?

Thank you Webster for giving our students this amazing opportunity.

Jionni Telero and Jacob Beach get some help
Hunter Giaconia hard at work
Mia DiLorenzo trying out the rover prorotype she built

* * *

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 2/20/2024)

Tags: , , , ,

Webster community mailbag

15 Feb

Soooooo … you’ve heard about this solar eclipse thing that’s happening on April 8? It’s a pretty big deal, so you’re going to start seeing and hearing about all sorts of programs to celebrate it and teach you and your family all about it. Leading today’s mailbag are several that might strike your interest.

This Saturday Feb. 17 at 2 p.m., the Webster Barnes & Noble will host Dave Bishop, vice president of the Astronomy Section of the Rochester Academy of Science, who will explain all things eclipse and answer your questions. There’s no cost, and attendees will receive a free pair of eclipse glasses.

Barnes & Noble is located in Towne Center Plaza (Kohl’s/Target Plaza) on Ridge Rd.

The Webster Public Library has all sorts of special programs scheduled in March for everyone in your family. The two that excite me the most are:

  • The Black Hour: Eclipses in the Middle Ages — Tuesday, March 19 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

An evening exploring medieval science and superstitions about lunar and solar eclipses, including discussions about medicine, religion, art, and more. Registration is required. Click here for more information and to register. There’s no charge.

  • Rochester Eclipses: Past and Present — Tuesday, March 26 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

A talk about Rochester’s experience with the 1925 eclipse as captured in the resources of Central Library’s Local History & Genealogy Division. Registration is required. Click here for more information and to register. There’s no charge.

You’ll also want to check the Webster Library website for information about these other eclipse programs for the entire family:

  • Homeschool Hour — Friday, March 1 from 3 to 4 p.m.
  • Make it Monday Eclipse Craft — Monday, March 11 from 6 to 7 p.m.
  • Eclipse Storytime — Tuesday, March 12 from 10 to 10:30 a.m.
  • Family Eclipse Night Wednesday, March 27 from 6 to 6:45 p.m.
  • March drop-in eclipse crafts — Friday, March 29 and Saturday, March 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

And definitely don’t miss the Webster Public Library Eclipse event on Eclipse Day, Monday April 8. More details to come about this.

The library will be handing out two pairs of eclipse glasses per family at each of these events (while supplies last). If you can’t attend one of them, they’ll be handing out more glasses to the public as the date approaches and will have some available at the April 8 eclipse event.

These next items come straight to you (via me) from the Webster CSD:

Results on Budget ThoughtExchange Shared

In January, Webster CSD held a month-long ThoughtExchange, asking all district community members a series of questions seeking feedback on district budgeting.

The ThoughtExchange closed on Jan. 31. The results were presented to the Webster CSD Board of Education at its February 13 meeting. If you’re interested in seeing those results, click here.

Work of Webster Students, Teachers on Exhibit Together

The community is invited to enjoy artwork created by several of our One Webster students and their teachers at Nazareth College’s Art Center Gallery.

The Art Center is currently celebrating its biennial Shared Spaces show, which invites local art class teachers to submit one work by a chosen student to display alongside one of their own. The show celebrates the unique apprenticeship process that occurs between teacher and student.

Webster’s exhibiting artists this year are Webster Thomas students (with teachers) Carson Hogan (Kat Harrison), Jessica van Wichen (Cathy Morrill Crockett), and Gweneth Tetzlaff (Todd Stahl); and Webster Schroeder students (with teachers) Gianna Gallo (Cate Zalewski), Alexandra Zilist (Danielle Zatkowsky), and Corintia Griffith (Cheryl Simon).

The exhibit will remain on display through March 10. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

Prekindergarten Lottery Opens!

Lottery applications for Webster CSD’s 2024-25 prekindergarten program are now available online.

Children who will be 4 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2024, but who are not eligible for kindergarten, are eligible for prekindergarten enrollment for the upcoming school year.

Webster CSD PreK is a play-based program that engages students in social and emotional skills with a heavy emphasis on communication. The district offers both full-day and half-day options for families. Locations are determined by the lottery and according to the child’s home catchment for kindergarten.

For more information and to complete a lottery application, please visit Webster CSD’s prekindergarten web page here. Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, March 14.

An open house will be held Tuesday, Feb. 27 from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m. at the Schroeder PreK located at Webster Schroeder High School, as well as at Kids First, Expressive Beginnings, and Webster CSD’s half day location at STARS Preschool. Webster CSD PreK teachers will be on hand to answer questions. 

Webster CSD Vocal Teacher Grammy Nominated

Huge congratulations to Webster Thomas vocal music teacher Kyle Sackett, who was recently nominated for a 2024 Grammy Award.

Sackett is a member of the professional chamber choir The Crossing, which Musical America magazine named 2024 Ensemble of the Year. This year, The Crossing was nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Choral Performance for their album “Carols after a Plague,” conducted by Donald Nally.

They were up against fellow powerhouse performances: “Ligeti: Lux Aeterna” performed by the San Francisco Symphony Chorus, “Saariaho: Reconnaissance” performed by the Uusinta Ensemble and the Helsinki Chamber Choir, “Rachmaninoff: All-Night Vigil” performed by The Clarion Choir, “The House Of Belonging” performed by the Miro Quartet, and “Conspirare,” conducted by Craig Hella Johnson.

In the end, “Saariaho: Reconnaissance” was announced the winner, but as they say, it’s an honor to be nominated.

Kyle is in his second year teaching vocal music at Webster Thomas (his alma mater). He earned his undergraduate degree in music education at SUNY Fredonia and a Masters in Voice and Opera Performance at Northwestern University in Chicago. Remarkably, this was The Crossing’s ninth Grammy nomination in eight years and Kyle’s third as a member of the group.

* * *

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 2/15/2024)


Tags: , , , , ,

Catch Me if You Can comes to the Webster Schroeder stage this weekend

6 Feb

I had the pleasure Monday night of getting a sneak peek at Webster Schroeder High School’s upcoming spring musical, Catch Me If You Can, which takes the stage this coming weekend, Feb. 8 through 10.

The show tells the real-life story of con artist Frank Abagnale, who, from the age of 16, masqueraded as a teacher, pilot, doctor and lawyer, and wrote 17,000 bad checks to the tune of $2.5 million.

The musical drama’s plot largely follows the well-known 2002 film of the same name, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. It opened on Broadway in 2011, receiving four Tony Award nominations and one Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical.

I’m a big fan of the film, and was very curious to see how a drama like that had been turned into a musical. But I’ve seen my share of Schroeder productions, and I expected to be blown away by this one, as I always am.

I was not disappointed.

Catch Me If You Can is not only well acted, with incredible voices I’ve come to expect from Webster Schroeder students, but it’s also funny. I was laughing right from the get-go, when the audience received the “airline safety procedures” presentation, complete with a seat belt and oxygen mask demo, and notice that we’d be having a “15-minute layover” in the middle of the flight.

Fans of the movie will notice that a lot of scenes have been eliminated and many others blended together, a necessary concession when translating a film to the stage. There are some impressive dance pieces, and LOTS of music, but every single one of the songs moves the story along and adds some meaningful character background. I actually left the theater humming one of the jaunty tunes.

The costumes are bright, and the set pieces are simple but imaginative. I was especially impressed by how quickly the stage crew could transform an airport into a living room, and may have gasped slightly when a huge airplane was lowered from the rafters.

Schroeder’s production of Catch Me If You Can is especially notable since it’s the first time the musical has been produced in our area. Artistic Director Carrie Zugelder said that Rush Henrietta High School was planning to stage it in 2020, but COVID put a halt to that. So, “it’s pretty much never been done in Western New York,” she said.

“We were intrigued by it,” she added, explaining why she, Music Director Katie Goodman and choreographer Cori Colombo chose it for this year’s production.

It’s not an easy show. It’s got a ton of characters, it’s got a ton of singing, lots of stage time for kids. We knew we had a really solid group of ladies and we knew we had some really star quality gentlemen. … There’s a lot of wealth to pass around and we knew we could cast it.

The show was challenging in other ways as well.

We have 41 kids in the cast and we have more than 350 costumes. The average actor on stage has between eight and twelve costume changes, which is crazy. And not only are there a lot of costume changes, there are lots of accessories. Kids have hats, they have sunglasses, baseball bats …it’s all over the place.

This is unlike anything that I’ve ever done before, but it’s a really, really great show.

I couldn’t say it any better.

Webster Schroeder’s production of Catch Me If You Can is a lighthearted adaptation of the movie which tells a fascinating story that will delight everyone, regardless of whether they’ve seen the movie or not.

You’re definitely going to want to catch this one.

Catch Me If You Can will be presented on Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Feb. 10 at 2 and 7 p.m. at Webster Schroeder High School, 875 Ridge Rd. Tickets are $14 and available now through WebsterSchroederMusicals.com. 

A thousand thanks to Schroeder parent David Schiffhauer for the excellent photographs. Check out his work at DJSchiffhauer Photography.

* * *

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 2/6/2024)

Tags: , , , ,

Class of ’93 donation honors former Thomas VP John Soper

1 Feb

When we graduate from high school, we all leave a little bit of our hearts behind. It might take some time, but eventually most of us come to look back fondly at our alma maters, the good times we had there, and the teachers and administrators who helped guide us.

That’s what the members of the Webster Thomas Class of 1993 were thinking when they celebrated their 30th reunion last summer. As part of the reunion, they decided they wanted to do something to give back to the school, and especially honor their vice principal, John Soper. So, in his memory, they held a fundraiser to raise money for the Webster Thomas Food Pantry.

Class of ’93 representative Andy LaManna explained they chose Soper for the recognition because he was “a great human being … very much appreciated by the class.”

He added,

When the class of ’93 had the reunion planning, we wanted to do something different. Knowing that no student should have to worry about being hungry during the school day (there’s enough other things to worry about in high school), we decided that we would take up a collection to raise money for the Webster Thomas Food Pantry that is right at the school.

What ended up happening was amazing. Both those that could, and those that could not make the reunion donated to the pantry. All in all we raised over $3000.

Unfortunately, Soper passed away in 2016. John’s wife Judy was very appreciative of the sentiment, writing,

John was truly dedicated to his students and the Webster schools. He took great joy in being personally involved with his classes as vice-principal and later as principal. Seeing former students succeed was his reward. Being an educator was his true calling. He would have been so honored by this dedication from the class of 1993.

Glenn Widor and Ari Halaris

Webster Thomas administrators were pretty much blown away by the generous donation. Principal Glenn Widor said, “The Class of ’93 donation made it possible for our Thomas/OWL students to know and more importantly feel that people care and want to help in numerous ways even after graduating! Having a pantry that provides essentials for those in need is of great value.”

OWL administrator/director Ari Halaris added, “I’m honored to work in a school where alumni continue to show support for our schools and programs. It’s great to have a stocked pantry right within the buildings.”

The funds were used to purchase nonperishable food for the cupboard, and provide food vouchers for students to use over breaks and vacations.

Every one of our secondary schools has a food pantry to serve those students who need extra support and don’t get enough to eat at home. Wouldn’t it be cool if other Webster class reunions did something similar to support the pantries at Schroeder, Willink, and Spry? What a great way for Webster alumni to help our current Webster students.  

* * *

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 2/1/2024)

Tags: , , ,

Webster community mailbag

26 Jan

The secondary schools’ lineup of spring musicals begins in just a few weeks when the Willink Drama Club presents Finding Nemo JR. on Friday, Feb. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 3 at 1 and 7:30 p.m. at Willink Middle School, 900 Publishers Parkway.

An adaptation of the beloved 2003 movie, Finding Nemo JR. tells the story of Marlin (Jeremiah Fischer), an anxious and over-protective clownfish who lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo (Harper Johnson), who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters Dory (Peyton Short), Crush (Rylie Biroscak), and the supportive Tank Gang (Jeremiah Clark, Ella Boneberg, Benedict Sweeney, Leah Schinaman, Kayla Vanderlinden, and Sierra Strelick), Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” Finding Nemo JR. showcases a large, energetic cast and crew of more than 100 sixth, seventh and eighth graders.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $6 for students and seniors, and free for children ages 3 and younger. Tickets can be purchased online here but should also be available at the door.

Challenger Miracle Field invites the community to a Valentines Dance on Friday and Saturday Feb. 9 and 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Webster Country Club, 440 Salt Rd.

Participants ages 20 and under are invited to attend Friday night, and those 21 and older can come on Saturday. Both nights will feature dinner, a photo booth, and a DJ providing the dance music.

Cost is $10 for 1 to 2 people, $25 for a group of three or more. Click here to register. Registrations are due by Feb. 2.

Beyond Cuts Salon on North Ave. in the Village of Webster is working with RocMaidan to send relief supplies to the Ukraine.

The salon is now collecting any size bottles of Ibuprofin (Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol), and cold medicines and bandages of any size, which will be added to the medical backpacks which RocMaidan regularly ships to the Ukraine for soldier and civilian casualties.

Please drop your items off at the salon, 33 North Ave., during normal operating hours.

The annual Robynpalooza Golf Tourney has been scheduled for June 14, 2024 at the Morgan’s Crossing Golf Club in Scottsville.

This tournament is in its 13th year of having fun and raising money for local charities. Last year’s event raised $18,000, which benefited the Genesee Land Trust, Webster Public Library, Human Kindness and Webster Rotary charities. Business owners are encouraged to support this year’s Robynpalooza by purchasing a sponsorship, which range from $100 to $2500.

For more details, visit www.websterrotaryny.org or call 585-678-1378.

The next general meeting and luncheon for the Women’s Club of Webster will be held on Thursday Feb. 15 at Proietti’s Restaurant, 980 Ridge Rd. Cherie Wood, Webster’s coordinator for Wreaths Across America Webster, will be this month’s speaker.

The event begins with a social mix-and-mingle at 11:15 a.m., followed by a brief meeting at noon and lunch at 12:30 p.m. Then Cherie will speak about Wreaths Across America and other projects supporting Blue Star families and Gold Star mothers.

Lunch will feature a buffet featuring Proietti’s famous Chicken French, stuffed shells, zucchini marinara, salad, and a cannoli.  The cost is $24. Send your check made out to WCW by February 8 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Questions? Phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303.

New members are always welcome.

The CDS Wolf Foundation invites community members to join a fun afternoon of bowling at the 17th annual Strikes for Abilities Bowling Party, scheduled for Sunday Feb. 25 at Bowlero Webster, 2400 Empire Blvd.

Registration costs just $250 for 5-person teams, and includes two hours of unlimited bowling, bowling shoes, pizza and unlimited soft drinks, prizes, a cash bar and raffles.

To learn more and sign up, click here.

* * *

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 1/26/2024)

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Mark your calendars for the WCSD spring musicals

15 Jan

If you love live theater, then you’ll be excited to know that all four of our secondary schools are preparing right now to stage plays this spring. Here are the details:

The fun begins on February 2 and 3 when the Willink Drama Club presents Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, Jr. This is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie, featuring lots of new music and all the characters you’ve come to love, including Nemo and his father Marlin, Dory, Crush the laid-back sea turtle, and the Tank Gang.

Show times are Friday Feb. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday Feb. 3 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Willink Middle School, 900 Publishers Parkway. Stay tuned for ticket information.

The following week, Feb. 8 through 10, Webster Schroeder High School, 875 Ridge Rd., will bring one of my favorite movies to the stage, Catch Me if You Can. The musical drama follows the true story of con artist Frank Abagnale, and the plot largely follows the 2002 film of the same name.

It should be very interesting to see how this translates to a stage play. But I know for certain that Schroeder will do a great job with it. More to come about show times and tickets, on the website and Facebook page.

Spry Drama Club will present Nickelodeon’s The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition on March 8 and 9 at Spry Middle School, 119 South Ave.

In this one-hour adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home. SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. 

Stay tuned for more information.

Finally, Webster Thomas High School caps off the season with their production of DreamWorks’ Shrek the Musical from March 21 to 23 at the school, 800 Five Mile Line Rd.

You know the story; it’s pretty much the greatest fairy tale ever known, with all your favorite characters and songs. I don’t know the show times or ticket information about this one, either, so check back here or the district website for times and ticket information as performance dates near.

* * *

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.

(posted 1/15/2024)

Tags: , , , , , ,

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →