The Schroeder Theater Company is brewing up a steaming dose of mystery and laughs with their upcoming production of The Café Mocha Murders, which takes the stage next weekend.
Forget your average employee meeting. At The Bean Shack, things are about to get frothy… and fatal! When a raging storm knocks out the lights, it’s not just the espresso machine that goes silent. Someone’s gone and kicked the coffee grounds, leaving a whole lot of questions and a sprinkle of suspicion.
This wildly witty whodunit by Deanna Strasse is a delicious blend of latte art, caffeine cravings, and the ever-so-slight chance of, well, death. Prepare for over-the-top characters, like Soma (Aspen Russell), Ian (Evan Burdick) and Ivy (Reese Holland) who take on plot twists that’ll make your head spin faster than a barista on a Saturday morning, and enough intrigue to keep you buzzing long after the curtain falls.
The Café Mocha Murders will be presented at Webster Schroeder High School, 875 Ridge Rd., Thursday through Saturday, May 1 to 3 at 7 p.m. each night, plus a matinee on Saturday, May 3 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10. They’re available online here and at the door.
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Here’s a very quick bit of happy news from our schools.
Late last week, the Spry Middle School Student Council students did a pretty great thing for our community. They presented a check for $2,440.35 to Webster Hope, a social ministry which provides emergency assistance to Webster residents who need food, clothing, household goods, furniture and financial support.
What’s especially impressive about that huge check is that the funds represent donations collected in justone week in March — Spry Middle School’s Spirit Week — which culminated with the annual Charity Basketball Game held on March 20.
Awesome job, Spry!!!
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The first, on Tuesday April 15 is all about Paranormal Investigations. Join the Monroe County paranormal investigations team to learn how they go about ghost hunting. They’ll share many Rochester-area paranormal experiences. The program begins at 6 p.m. There’s no charge, but registration is required. (Activity# 146940-P)
On Tuesday April 29, Dan Mason, General Manager of the Red Wings, will share the long history of the team which started in 1877, one of the oldest franchises in baseball. The program begins at 11:30 a.m. There’s no charge, but registration is required. (Activity# 146940-R)
Get rid of those expired drugs
The Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN), Town of Webster and Webster Police Dept. will host a DEA National Drug Take Back event on Saturday April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Clear out your medicine cabinet and bring your old prescription drugs to the Webster Justice Court Building at 1002 Ridge Rd. (look for the blue roof). Volunteers will be out in front of the building to accept your drugs, so you don’t even need to get out of your car.
The following week, on Wednesday April 30, WHEN will be sponsoring the third and last program in their Navigating the Tween Years parent forums, held partnership with Webster Central School District.
The topic this time will be Empowering Your Family. It’s an evening of interactive discussion and exploration, and you’ll leave with concrete ideas about how to support your children and teens so they can thrive. This presentation will recap some of the topics covered in previous sessions and build on proactive measures parents can implement immediately to help keep kids safe and healthy.
The event will be held on April 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Spry Middle School, 119 South Ave. There’s no charge, but registration is requested.
It’s chicken barbecue time again!
St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold its Spring Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday, May 3 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.
Webster CSD early voter ballot applications available
Applications for absentee or early voter ballots for the Webster CSD Annual Budget Vote and School Board Election are available.
Absentee Ballot: 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, may wish to use an absentee ballot. Voters must apply for the ballot in advance. Absentee ballot applications are available on the district website, websterschools.org, or from District Clerk Heather Murphy, 119 South Avenue.
Early Voter: Qualified voters of the district may wish to use an early voter ballot. Voters must apply for the ballot in advance. Early voter ballot applications are available on the district website, websterschools.org, or from District Clerk Heather Murphy, 119 South Avenue, Webster.
There are limited office hours during break week of April 14, 2025. Please contact District Clerk Heather Murphy at (585) 216-0001 or heather_murphy@webstercsd.org if planning to pick up an application during that week. Ballots will not be available until on/or about April 25, 2025.
The Webster CSD Annual Budget Vote and Election of Board of Education Candidates takes place Tuesday, May 20, 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. in the Webster Schroeder High School gym, 875 Ridge Road, Webster.
Here are a few reminders from previous mailbags:
The Webster Arboretum will present a program on Thursday April 24 all about Orioles and Hummingbirds. It begins at 7 p.m. Click here to RSVP and to learn about future Arboretum programs.
Donors at the next American Red Cross blood drive, coming up on Saturday April 26 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Martin Lutheran Church, will enjoy homemade cookies provided by the Women’s Club of Webster. You can sign up in advance at redcrossblood.org or just drop in.
The Friends of the Webster Public Library’s Book Sale will be held April 30 through May 3. Members of the Friends are welcome to shop on Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m., and the general public on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. More information here.
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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).
Webster Schroeder High School’s next stage production, The Café Mocha Murders, will take place the first week of May. But before the rest of the community gets to see it, our community’s senior citizens are invited to a special sneak-peek at the play on Wednesday, April 30.
The performance will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m., and light refreshments will be served. Any senior citizen living within the Webster Central School District is welcome to attend. A $5 donation is requested to help cover the cost of the performance. Registrations are being taken online; click here. The deadline to reserve tickets is this Friday, April 11.
About The Café Mocha Murders
Despite the raging storm outside, it seems like a perfectly normal night for an employee meeting at the local coffee shop, The Bean Shack. That is, until the lights go out, and someone winds up dead! In this over-the-top whodunit by Deanna Strasse, it’s all about latte art, caffeine content, and the imminent threat of death.
Sounds like fun.
The performance will be held at Webster Schroeder High School on Wednesday, April 30. Doors will open at 9:15 for check-in and refreshments, and the show begins at 10.
For the rest of the community, The Cafe Mocha Murders will take the stage on Thursday and Friday, May 1 and 2 at 7 p.m., and Saturday May 3 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Stay tuned for ticket information, which I’ll pass along as soon as I get it.
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email me at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)
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Congratulations to two Spry Middle School vocal groups who achieved top honors at the recent NYSSMA Major Organization Evaluation Festival.
Spry Middle School’s two vocal powerhouses, SoundWave 6 and SoundWave 7/8, both received a Gold Rating at the festival, held in Honeoye on Tuesday April 1. The rating is awarded to ensembles that demonstrate an outstanding level of technical and artistic skill in their performance, an incredible accomplishment that reflects the high standards and hard work of these singing Warriors.
SoundWave 6 is directed by Katie Goodman, who also co-directs SoundWave 7/8 with Stephen Costanza.
“These students go above and beyond, giving up their lunch study periods to participate in SoundWave, showing true dedication to their craft and their ensemble,” Goodman said. “We are so proud of their commitment, teamwork, and musical excellence.”
This is the first time in 15 years that Spry Middle School has been awarded Gold at this prestigious event. Congratulations to all these talented students,and their directors, for making Webster proud.
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On Monday afternoon, I had the delightful opportunity to get a sneak peak at Webster Thomas High School’s upcoming production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, which takes the stage for four shows this weekend, March 27 to 29.
I knew very little about this show (or the movie it was based on) when I walked into the auditorium, despite its 18-month award-winning run at the Palace Theater from 2007-2008, and its subsequent world tours. I wasn’t even certain I was going to like it.
But as I headed home all I could think was, “What a FUN show!”
Legally Blonde tells the story of sorority girl Elle Woods, whose seemingly perfect life is upended when her boyfriend leaves her for Harvard Law School. Her solution? Get accepted into the school herself and win him back.
Blonde, bubbly and always-clad-in-pink Elle doesn’t quite fit the Harvard stereotype, however, and she faces challenges from peers, professors and her ex-boyfriend. But with the support of her new friends, she discovers her true potential and sets out to overcome those challenges.
Legally Blonde is a very entertaining show filled with dynamic dancing and very catchy songs. The production features a talented cast and crew of more than 80 Webster Thomas students, including Isabella Spencer as Elle; Colin Ritchie as Warner, the boyfriend; and Dominick Mangano, Evie Fellows and Matteo Serventi as Elle’s friends. There are some mature themes and some language, so parental guidance is suggested.
It was silly to think for even a moment that I wasn’t going to like a Webster Thomas production. As always, as I watched the young actors on stage, I was blown away by the voices and acting skills, and can imagine many of them heading off to musical theater schools around the country.
As I said, I really didn’t know much about the show when I walked into the theater. Unfortunately, I was only able to stay for the first half of the dress rehearsal, so I didn’t even get to see it all. But I’ve since read about how it ends (which I won’t spoil for you if you don’t know the story), and I’m definitely looking forward to being in the audience to enjoy the happy ending.
Webster Thomas High School’s production of Legally Blonde: The Musical will run from Thursday March 27 to Saturday March 29, with nightly performances at 7 p.m. and a 1 p.m. matinee on Saturday. Tickets are $14 each and will be available online here. Webster Thomas High School is located at 800 Five Mile Line Rd.
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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).
Last weekend, Webster’s very own Sparx Robotics team participated in a regional event at RIT, competing against 53 other teams who traveled from all over New York State, from Buffalo to the Bronx, but also Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. While they didn’t bring home any awards, they finished strong and made Webster proud.
The following report and photos from the weekend were submitted by Sparx parent mentor Tricia Isham:
The Sparx Robotics Team 1126, made up of talented students from Webster Schroeder and Webster Thomas High Schools, recently took part in the exciting Finger Lakes Regional FIRST Robotics competition. Held from March 13 to 15, 2025, at Rochester Institute of Technology, this event challenged teams to dive into the ocean’s ecosystem with this year’s theme, “Reefscape.”
Months of Hard Work and Teamwork
Since fall, these dedicated teens have been meeting twice a week in the evenings, increasing to a minimum of three times a week after the new year, putting in an impressive average of 16 plus hours weekly (and often many more). Their dedication paid off with the design and creation of their robot, lovingly named Luisa in memory of a favorite loving and encouraging mentor.
The Reefscape Challenge
The competition, announced on January 4, 2025, gave Team 1126 just nine weeks to build and program their robot. Luisa was designed to perform specific tasks both autonomously and under human control, simulating the harvesting of algae and planting of coral in an oceanic environment.
Team Spirit and Future Competitions
Sparx met every match with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, embodying the spirit of FIRST Robotics. Their journey keeps going – the team is set to compete in the New York Tech Valley Regional in Albany from March 26 to 29, 2025. You’ll be able to watch that competition live here.
More Than Just Robotics
Sparx Robotics Team 1126 has shown remarkable teamwork and perseverance. Their performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these young engineers.
FIRST Robotics isn’t just about building robots; it’s about fostering innovation, teamwork, and leadership skills. It’s an incredible way for students to learn STEM concepts while developing confidence and creativity.
Get Involved
Our current sponsors are: One Webster School District, Xerox, Bosch, Boulter, MKS, Wegman’s, Crossfield, Lavoro Group, Vital Signs, OptiPro and the Watson and Ficci Families.
Want to support these future innovators, too? Consider mentoring the team or making a donation. To contact the lead mentors for mentoring opportunities and to donate, visit the team’s website.
Learn more about FIRST Robotics and follow the exciting world of competitive robotics, and this year’s REEFSCAPE theme here.
The Sparx Robotics Team 1126 is a shining example of what our local youth can achieve with passion and teamwork. Their journey from design to competition is a testament to the power of STEM education and the importance of programs like FIRST Robotics in shaping our future.
Tricia also reported that while the team didn’t do as well as they had hoped, their final ranking was nothing to sneeze at.
“Team 1126 was ranked 24 out of 54 teams at the competition with a record of 5-3-1,” she wrote, “and goes into the Tech Valley competition at an overall rank of 906 out of over 1900 teams participating in total this competition year.” Not too shabby.
Here are a few more photos from the competition:
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email me at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)
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A reminder that the library’s Vintage Book Sale takes place on Saturday March 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop more than 200 fiction and non-fiction books, published between the 19th and early 21st centuries. Prices begin at $8.
Also, all this month the library is hosting their first-ever Irish American Heritage Month Book Sale. It lasts only until everything is sold, so get there soon to choose from a selection of books about Irish history, travel, culture and folklore, plus coffee-table books, Ireland-themed puzzles and Irish music CDs.
Both book sales benefit the Friends of the Webster Public Library.
And remember that this month’s free community exchange is GAMES. Bring in a game that you don’t use anymore, and pick up a new one! Plus, the Donation Station benefits the library’s Free Food Pantry, and the Seed Library is now open.
Got stuff to shred?
The Finger Lakes Federal Credit Union will sponsor a free community shredding day on Saturday May 3 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Webster branch, 815 Ridge Rd. It’s open to small businesses and individuals in the Webster area. Please bring the papers in disposable (preferably recyclable) boxes or bags.
Wine Walks return
The Village of Webster has scheduled the next Wine Walk for Saturday May 10.
These are very popular events where you stroll the village, popping into businesses to sample wines and snacks from our local merchants.
Participants must be 21 and an ID is required. More information to come, but you cal also stay up to date on the latest at the Webster BID website.
Are you a guy who loves to sing?
The Chorus of the Genesee is hosting a New Members Night on Tuesday March 25 at 7 p.m., at the Harmony House, 58 East Main St. in the Village of Webster.
Come meet the guys and join them for an evening of singing a cappella music. You don’t even have to be able to read music. If you can sing a tune, they’ll show the rest. Click here to R.S.V.P., and if you have any questions, you can call 585-259-3590 or email RochesterCOG@gmail.com.
Some additional reminders …
All of the following announcements were previously included in this community mailbag, so click on that link if you’d like any more information about …
The Webster Public Library will host its annual Special Needs Parent Resource Fair on Saturday April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. This event is especially for parents and caregivers who are looking for community resources to support their loved ones who have special needs.
Anyone wishing to run for the Webster Central School District Board of Education may pick up a nominating packet from the district clerk’s office, 119 South Avenue, 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 21.
The Webster Arboretum will present the program Invasive Insects on Thursday March 20, from 7 to 8 p.m., presented by Camille Caceci, the Invasive Species Project Coordinator with Finger Lakes PRISM.
The Webster Comfort Care Home is hosting an 80’s Prom and Dance Party on Saturday April 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Shadow Lake Golf Club, 1850 Five Mile Line Rd. Music will be provided by Hall Pass and DJ Lesh.
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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).
The Spry Middle School Student Council is putting the fun into fundraising at its annual Charity Basketball Game on Thursday, March 20 from 6 to 8 p.m.
The evening will feature a friendly hoops competition between student houses, highlighted by a halftime show where Spry staff will challenge each other in Minute to Win It games. The staff and student competitions will all count towards points awarded to the houses, and after the game, the highly coveted Spirit Stick will be awarded to the house which has accumulated the most points during Spirit Week.
Suggested donation at the door is $5. Concessions will also be available for a nominal cost.
The game is the capstone event for Spry’s Spirit Week, and all of the proceeds from the game — and various other fundraising activities held during the week — will benefit Webster Hope. The agency provides residents in need in the 14580 zip code with food, clothing, household goods, furniture and occasional financial assistance.
Once again, the Spry Middle School Charity Basketball Game will be held Thursday, March 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the school gym, 119 South Avenue.
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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).
Here’s a quick announcement about a great new event taking place TODAY, Saturday, from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the Webster Thomas High School Field House. It’s the inaugural Challenger Miracle Field Track and Field Open House for Rochester area children and adults with disabilities.
Designed for regional athletes ages 8 and older with developmental, physical, or intellectual disabilities, the two-hour open house will allow participants to try out four modified events: 4×100 relay, 55-meter dash, shot put and long jump.
The event is being organized by Amelia Thompson, a sophomore and Webster Thomas track & field thrower. Amelia is leading the initiative as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, driven by her passion for making track and field accessible to athletes of all abilities. She believes in the sport’s power to bring people together and has recruited a team of Webster Thomas students to volunteer and support the participants.
The Challenger Track and Field Open House will be held Saturday March 8 from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the Webster Thomas High School Field House, 800 Five Mile Line Rd. Participation is free but registration is requested.
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).
I feature the people and places and events that make Webster the wonderful community it is — and throw in some totally-not-Webster-related personal ramblings every once in a while as well.
I love it when readers send me news about the great things happening in their schools or the community, so please email me anytime at missyblog@gmail.com
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