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Webster community mailbag

4 Jun

A couple of fun things coming up this weekend are atop my mailbag.

The first is the Webster Recreation Center’s annual Summer Celebration, this Saturday June 8 from 4 to 10 p.m.

This excellent family-friendly event features a bounce house, food trucks, live music, and fireworks at the end of the night. It’s free and no registration is necessary.

The Rec Center’s Music at the Arboretum series continues on Thursday, June 20 with a performance by Jazz Generation, beginning at 6:30 p.m. This is free (but weather-dependent). Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, plus snacks and drinks if you’d like!

Looking ahead at the Rec Center, mark your calendars now for the Summer Splash party on Saturday July 20 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 there’ll be free snow cones for all.

Then on Wednesday July 31, come out and see the beautiful new and improved Sandbar Park during Sandbar Splendor from 5 to 7 p.m. There’ll be lawn games, food trucks, raffles and music.

SPEAKING OF THE SPRAY PARKS…

Webster’s two spray parks are now open for the season, at Ridgecrest Park (off of Ebner Drive) and the beautiful, First Responders Spray Park near the Webster Recreation Center on Chiyoda Dr.

The First Responders Park (pictured here) is especially fun for kids and families. It’s a firefighter-themed playground and splash pad, with a nearby pavilion. The splash pad has all sorts of water-fun features including a fire hydrant, a dalmatian fountain and fire truck slide.  

Ridgecrest’s spray park is a smaller facility, but is just a short walk from the center of the village. It also boasts an adjacent playground and skate park.

    Also coming up this weekend is a program at the Webster Arboretum especially designed for those of you who love peonies.

    The Arboretum will present a Program about peonies, the “queen of flowers,” on Sunday June 9 at 6:30 p.m. Arboretum board member George Riehle will give a tour and present the program, focusing on the care and cultivation of peonies and tree peonies. Please register at the Webster Arboretum website.

    The Webster Arboretum is located at 1700 Schlegel Rd.

    ALSO on Sunday June 9, the Webster Museum will present what has become one of their most popular programs, the Antiques and Collectibles Roadshow.  

    If you’re curious about the value or origin of an antique you own, bring it to the museum on June 9 at 2 p.m. and the Palma Brothers will use their expertise to provide some insight. There’s no cost, you don’t need to register, and free refreshments will be provided.

    The Webster Museum is located at 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster.

    Finally, this notice which I actually got in my SNAIL MAIL: the Summer Concert Series at Cherry Ridge is back.

    The first concert is scheduled for Wednesday June 19 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., featuring the Rochester Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra. Gates open at 5 p.m., and food will be available for purchase beginning at 5:30 p.m. Bring your own lawn chairs, and make sure to pre-register here so you can skip the line. There’s no cost for this community concert.

    Looking ahead, on Tuesday Aug. 6, 8 Days a Week takes steps up on the Cherry Ridge stage, so make sure to mark your calendars now.

    Cherry Ridge is located at 900 Cherry Ridge Blvd., across from Webster Schroeder High School. Registration is requested. Click here to do so.

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

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

    (posted 6/4/2024)

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    Family fun from the Rec Center this spring and summer

    13 May

    The Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr., has so many cool things planned for the next few months that I just had to pull them out for a separate blog.

    Here’s a quick summary, but you can check the Webster Recreation website for more details:

    • Friday May 17: Family Fun Night from 6 to 8 p.m. at Challenger Miracle Field. There’ll be lawn games, food trucks, music and face painting, and it’s all free and open to the public. No registration is required.

    Miracle Field is located at 1008 Ridge Rd.

    • Saturday June 8: Summer Celebration from 4 to 10 p.m. at the Rec Center. This is always a terrific event with a bounce house, food trucks, live music and fireworks at the end of the night. Free to all, and no registration is required.
    • Thursday, June 20: Music at the Arboretum, featuring Jazz Generation, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
    • Thursday July 18: Music at the Arboretum featuring (my good friends) Doctor’s Orders, beginning at 6:30. Performances are outdoors in the gazebo and are weather-dependent. Snacks are available for purchase, but you can bring your own, and remember your chairs, blankets and beverages. No cost for admission.
    • Saturday, July 20: Summer Splash from 3 to 5 p.m. at First Responders Spray Park, Chiyoda Dr. This annual event invites families to come play in the splash park and enjoy free sno-cones from Gleason Orthodontics. Plus, Rich the Magic Man will be there with foam bubble fun. It’s all free and no registration is required. Wear your swim suits!
    • Wednesday July 31: Sandbar Splendor, 5 to 7 p.m. at Sandbar Park, 302 Lake Rd. Lawn games, food trucks, raffles and music. This is a great chance to check out the new and improved Sandbar Park.

    More to come in August and beyond, so stay tuned!

    Now a quick plug for the Talks on Tuesday programs at the Recreation Center. These informative presentations, designed to “enrich and inspire adult learners over age 55,” are offered every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Admission is free but registration is required.

    Here’s what’s coming up this month:

    • May 14: Bone Health; May is National Osteoporosis Month. Brush up on bone health with Beth Parry.
    • May 21: Understanding Electric Vehicles. This talk will give attendees an introduction to electric vehicles, highlighting the major differences that you should know between electric and common gas vehicles.
    • May 28: Medicare; a workshop to provide an understanding of what all those Medicare letters and pieces mean. Learn when you can make changes and why you should review your program annually.

    To register for any of these programs, visit the Webster Recreation website or call the Rec Center at 585-872-7103.

    * * *

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

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

    (posted 5/13/2024)

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    Webster community mailbag

    12 Apr

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

    WCSD absentee and early voter ballots available

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

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

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

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

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

    Got stuff to shred?

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

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

    Webster Chamber of Commerce invites you

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    It’s all about the bees

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

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

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

    WHEN will host spring Drug Take-Back event

    Webster Health and Education Network, together with the Town of Webster and the Webster Police Department will host a DEA National Drug Take Back event on Saturday April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Town Court, 1002 Ridge Rd. (behind Town Hall; look for the blue roof). Clear out your medicine cabinet to help to keep Webster safe. This will be a drive-through event so you don’t even have to get out of your car! 

    This is your chance to safely dispose of unused, expired or unwanted medications.

    Registration is not required, but if you register you’ll get a reminder via email about the event. Learn more at Whendfcc.org

    Special Needs Parent Resource Fair

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

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

    Books, books books (and all really cheap!)

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

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

    All proceeds will benefit the Webster Public Library.  

    Chicken BBQ for dinner

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

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

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

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

    Whew. That is all. For now.

    * * *

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

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

    (posted 4/12/2024)

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    News from the Friends of Webster Trails

    5 Apr

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

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

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

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

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

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

    * * *

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

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

    (posted 4/5/2024)

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    The Webster Public Library: more than meets the eye

    30 Mar

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

    SNOWSHOES!

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

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

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

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

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

    Community eclipse event

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

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

    Special Needs Parent Resource Fair

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

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

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

    Friends of the Library Book Sale

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

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

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

    All proceeds will benefit the Webster Public Library.  

    Diverse Abilities Dialogues — In-person real parent experience panel

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

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

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

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

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

    * * *

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

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

    (posted 3/30/2024)

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    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)


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    Senior Singers sing in the holidays next week

    12 Dec

    The beautifully melodic Senior Singers will host their annual Holiday Concert at the Webster Recreation Center on Tuesday Dec. 19 at 11 a.m.

    The Senior Singers is a enthusiastic group of older adults who come together at the Rec Center every Tuesday to sing, socialize and — two or three times a year — share their love for music with the Greater Webster community.

    As the name suggests, this particular concert will feature a lot of your holiday favorites. Which means that not only will it be enjoyable, you’re guaranteed to be humming tunes as you walk out the door.

    There’s no charge to attend the holiday concert, and registration is not necessary. So bring a friend, a grandchild, or come solo, and take a moment out of your day and stop by to hear some beautiful music. While you’re there, consider joining this fun group. It doesn’t cost anything, and no audition is required. The only things you really need are the desire to make music — and a lot of new friends.

    The Senior Singers have offered older adults a no-cost, no-stress opportunity to rehearse and perform music for almost 40 years. Comprised of both men and women 55 and over, the group rehearses every Tuesday at 11 a.m. in a small room at the Recreation Center from September through June, taking two months off during the summer. And two or three times a year, especially before their summer break and at holiday time, they move into the Center’s large multipurpose room to present community concerts, performing Broadway show tunes, old standards and holiday favorites.

    * * *

    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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

    (posted 12/9/2023)

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    Webster community mailbag

    30 Nov

    Let’s start today with news of a fundraiser for the Webster Athletic Association at DiBella’s Subs on Empire Blvd.

    The flyer gives the details, but basically, if you order from DiBella’s in store or online between Dec. 1 and Dec. 15, 20% of your check will go to the WAA. You’ll need to use code WAA20. See the flyer for more details.

    Bernardi & Co. CPA, at 40 Barrett Drive, is hosting a free financial seminar designed for individuals and small businesses who could use a little advice.

    The seminar, about Saving and Investing, is scheduled for Tuesday Dec. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bernardi & Co. offices, and there’s no cost. But please RSVP as space is limited.

    Email Elena@bernardiCPA.com to reserve your spot. If you have any questions, call 585-217-9393.

    The Women’s Club of Webster will hold their 29th annual Christmas Cookie Sale on Saturday Dec. 9 in the Webster Public Library community room.

    The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until the cookies are sold out. This is always a highly anticipated event, so you might want to get there early. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the club’s scholarship funds and their support for many other programs in the Webster community.

    The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza. For more information, please contact Peg Berry at 203-645-9352.

    If you’d like to get more involved in the Women’s Club, here’s your chance: the club will be hosting their December Holiday Party on Thursday Dec. 21 at the Penfield Country Club, 1784 Jackson Rd.

    The event begins with a social at 11:15 a.m., followed by the meeting at noon, lunch at 12:30, then “holiday gaiety” and an optional gift exchange. If you’d like to participate in the gift exchange, the gifts should not exceed $10. The luncheon buffet will feature assorted wraps, tossed salad, fruit salad and a cookie.

    Special guest at this meeting will be Rochester folk musician Allen Hopkins.    

    Cost for the luncheon is $27. Send your check made out to WCW by December 14 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Questions? Phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303. And remember, new members are always welcome!

    The beautifully melodic Senior Singers will host their annual Holiday Concert at the Webster Recreation Center on Tuesday Dec. 19 at 11 a.m.

    The Senior Singers is a lively group of older adults who come together at the Rec Center every Tuesday to rehearse and perform music. There’s no cost; they just do it for the love of music. (If you want to read more about them, click here to see the blog I wrote.)

    There’s no charge to attend the holiday concert, and registration is not necessary, So plan to take a moment out of your day and stop by to hear some beautiful music,. (And perhaps consider joining this fun group.)

    The Webster Recreation Center is at 1350 Chiyoda Dr.

    This news from the Webster Chamber of Commerce:

    At their October monthly meeting, the Webster Chamber honored TYS CPAs, LLP as their November Business of the Month.

    TYS manages the accounting needs of their clients and goes beyond tabulation to point out opportunities for business growth and supports them through the process. They developed a ‘TYS Emerge‘ process, specifically for the Construction Industry. TYS also extends a promise to its clients, offering a fixed-rate, guaranteeing results, removing the escalating threat of hourly billing. In addition to serving the Webster Chamber, TYS volunteers at the Jefferson Avenue Elementary School, in Fairport. As he presented the award, Chamber President and CEO Barry Howard said, “TYS Co-Owner Tim Shortsleeve has been very active in the Chamber, assuming leadership roles. Currently, Tim serves on the Webster Chamber Board of Directors as Chair-elect, part of a six-year commitment, and is active on the Personnel Committee. He has also provided educational sessions for our members and visitors.“

    Every month, the Webster Chamber of Commerce identifies a member business or organization which has excelled within their industry, given back to the community, and been active in the Chamber to be honored as Business of the Month. In the photo above, Webster Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Carolyn Montanaro (left) presents the November Business of the Month award to TYS partner Tim S. Shortsleeve (center) and Staff Accountant Brenda Zornow (right).

    This important information also from the Chamber of Commerce:

    Deadlines Approaching for Health Insurance Enrollment for January 1 Start 

    The Webster Chamber of Commerce has offered no-fee health insurance enrollment assistance since 1938 and wants the public to be aware of the approaching deadlines to receive health insurance on January 1.

    • December 07 Medicare Annual Enrollment deadline: Medicare recipients have until the deadline to make a plan change for 2024. 
    • December 15: last day for Qualified Health Insurance (Including NYS Marketplace) for new or renewing participants for a January 1st effective date.

    Health insurance enrollment is challenging. In addition to deadlines, you have many health insurance carrier options to consider. Plus, each carrier offers different plans to align with individual needs. The Webster Chamber staff will help you through this insurance enrollment process, helping you select the plan that best fits your needs. Chamber membership is not required and you do not need to be a Webster resident. 

    To meet the deadlines to start health insurance on January 1 and to select the best-fit health insurance option for you, follow these steps:

    1. Call 585-265-3960 to schedule a virtual or in-person appointment with Chamber staff.
    2. Watch this introductory video.

    The Webster CSD has announced the dates for this spring’s school musicals, the theater lovers will want to get them on your calendars.

    • Willink Middle School will present Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo on Feb. 2 and 3
    • Webster Schroeder High School’s production of Catch Me if You Can will be held Feb. 8 to 10
    • Spry Middle School presents Nickelodeon’s The SpongeBob Musical March 8 and 9
    • Webster Thomas High School will stage DreamWorks’ Shrek the Musical from March 21 to 23
    • (this one’s a drama) Webster Schroeder Theater Company will present Little Women from April 25-27

    As performance dates near, you can check the Webster CSD website for details … plus I’ll be posting them here on my blog, so stay tuned.

    * * *

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

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    (posted 11/30/2023)

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    2023 Pumpkins on Parade another spooky success

    29 Oct

    I always wonder every year how the Webster Recreation Center can make their very popular Pumpkins on Parade event better than the year before. And every year they’ve surprised me.

    As usual, the number of jack-o-lanterns lining the one-mile long Chiyoda Trail behind the Rec Center was impressive. Parks and Recreation Commissioner Chris Bilow estimated there were at least 600 of them, a good percentage of which were created by community members and dropped off in the last few days. And the activities offered for family fun in the big field at the end of the hike — a slide, “photo booth,” corn maze, a bonfire and free donuts and cider — were a welcome distraction for all the kids who still just wanted to run around in their costumes.

    But this year’s trail also featured more twinkly lights, and some new and spooky decorations, many of them sporting an alien theme. It was fun to listen to the reactions of the kids who walked by the glowing green spaceship levitating a cow, and the witches huddled around their cauldron stirring their brew.

    Bilow made sure to credit the Webster Parks Department for the new decor. The Recreation Center staff carved a lot of the pumpkins and set them along the path, but the “parks guys” strung the new lights, and created the alien habitat and spooky passageways.

    Bottom line, a huge amount of effort by a lot of people makes this community event the success it is every year. Thank you to all, and I challenge you to try to make it even better next year.

    I couldn’t take photos of all of the jack-o-lanterns, but click here for a gallery of many of my favorites, and more highlights from the evening.

    * * *

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

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    (posted 10/29/2023)

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    Webster community mailbag

    27 Oct

    I’m going to head-up today’s mailbag with a few events which I haven’t mentioned in any recent posting, including this brand new one I only just learned about this week.

    Webster Schroeder High School’s National Honor Society will be hosting a Trunk or Treat at the school on Sunday Oct. 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. The NHS kids promise candy, popcorn, cotton candy and creative costumes. They’ll also be accepting donations for the Pirate Toy Fund, so if you can help, bring a new, unwrapped toy to the event.

    Webster Schroeder High School is located at 875 Ridge Rd. The Trunk or Treat will be held in the GOAL parking lot, which is on your right as you approach the Schroeder main entrance from Ridge.

    Veterans and active-duty service personnel are invited to a free Veterans Day spaghetti dinner in appreciation for their service.
     
    The dinner will take place Thursday, Nov. 9 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Spry Middle School, 119 South Avenue. Reservations are required, so attendees are asked to call the school at (585) 216-0093 to reserve seats. If you’d rather pick up a meal and not eat at the school, you can also call to reserve a takeout order.
     
    The dinner includes spaghetti, salad, bread, and dessert. Attendees and pickup orders are asked to enter the school’s back parking lot off of Rt. 250, behind the cafetorium.

    The next meeting of The Visionaries will be held on Wednesday Nov. 1 at 10:30 a.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.

    The Visionaries is a support group for community members who struggle with vision issues — macular degeneration, glaucoma, dry eye, or others. Members share their interests and opportunities with others, encouraging those with visual impairment to get the most out of their lives.

    The Visionaries began in 2000, and at one time boasted as many as 80 members. In addition to regular monthly meetings, the group has taken outings to attractions like the Memorial Art Gallery, Geva Theatre, and Pike Stained Glass Studio. For their December 6 meeting, the group will return to the Memorial Art Gallery and in January will meet at the Webster Public Library.

    There’s no need to register for any meeting, just come by and join in. For more information on The Visionaries, contact Ed Wilkonski at (585) 265-4167 or email wingstwofly@rochester.rr.com.

    From the Webster Public Library, located in Webster Plaza, 980 Ridge Rd.:

    • The library will be closed on Friday Nov. 10 for staff training, and will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday Nov. 22 for the Thanksgiving holiday.
    • The Caps for Sale fundraiser is coming up Thursday Nov. 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Hats will be $10 for children’s sizes and $15 for adult sizes and all proceeds benefit the Webster Public Library programs.
    • Also on Saturday Nov. 11, the library will hold their annual Vintage and Collectible Book Sale from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Book prices will start at $8 and prices are firm.
    • November 22 marks the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. On Wednesday Nov. 15, MCC history professor Mark Sample tells the story of that tragic day and discuss some of the conspiracy theories. The hour-long program begins at 6:30 p.m. Registration is required.
    • The next Webster Business Spotlight program will focus on Schutt’s Apple Mill, on Thursday Nov. 9 from 1 to 2 p.m. Please register here.
    • The Webster Art Club Fall Show is going on right now at the library, through the end of November. This group meets for Open Art every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Webster Recreation Center and has meetings with guest artists and demos on the second Wednesday of each month. New members are always welcome. For more information click here.

    The next benefit spaghetti dinner at the Masonic Lodge is Friday Nov. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the lodge, 30 Orchard Street.

    This month’s dinner will benefit the Webster Thomas Titans Cheerleaders organization. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children. You can eat in or take it to go. Call (585) 872-3500 with questions.

    The Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters will host an Indoor Arts/Crafts Sale at the Webster Recreation Center, Saturday Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 30 vendors will be there. Proceeds will benefit WSPS, a non-profit organization which provides Webster seniors with rides to their medical-related appointments.

    The West Webster Fire Department invites community members to help clean up the Lake Rd. memorial honoring fallen WWFD firefighters Lt. Mike Chiapperino and Tomasz Kaczowka, on Saturday Nov. 18 at 9 a.m.

    Please bring gloves, weed trimmers, takes and trash bags. The memorial is located on Lake Rd. just past Sandbar Park.

    I won’t go into much detail about any of these following events since I’ve written about them before, so if you want to find out more about any of them, check out the flyers below or just search for it on the blog.

    • DEA Drug take-back Saturday Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Justice Court, 1002 Ridge Rd.
    • Family Scavenger Hunt, Saturday Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Webster Recreation Center
    • Santa’s Garage Sale at St. Martin Lutheran Church, 813 Bay Rd., from Nov. 2 to 4.
    • A Concert Apparel and Coat event, Sat. Oct. 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.
    • Friends of Webster Trails’ annual Hot Cocoa Hike, Saturday Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. at Gosnell Big Woods Preserve.
    • Pumpkins on Parade, Saturday Oct, 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.
    • The Village of Webster’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, Saturday Oct. 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
    • The All in For Comfort Care Casino Night, Friday Nov 3 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at The Lodge at Shadow Hill in Ontario.
    • The Webster BID’s annual Bourbon Bash, Saturday Nov. 4 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Harmony House.

    * * *

    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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

    (posted 10/27/2023)

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