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Come on in, Webster, the music’s fine!

10 Mar

Despite being such a small town, the Village of Webster has an amazing amount of great music.

Every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, plus the occasional Wednesday, you can find live music SOMEWHERE in the village, performed by a variety of local and regional bands, playing folk, Irish, country, oldies, rock & roll and more.

Pub 235, at 235 North Ave., starts off every musical week on Tuesdays with Eggman’s Traveling Carnival, which plays from 7 to 9 p.m. Once a month or so, Nate Michaels also takes the stage.

Jojo Bistro & Wine Bar at 42 E. Main St has live music every Thursday night from 6 to 8 p.m. Among the regulars performing there are Thurlow, Amanda Ashley and Sean Rosenberry.

The music at Barry’s Old School Irish, 2 West Main St., starts Friday night, and it’s usually Irish. Saturday, a folk music jam session meets in the bakery side of the pub from noon to 2 p.m., followed by a traditional Irish music session from 2 to 5. Then, after THAT, another (usually non-Irish) band provides entertainment. Barry’s often brings in bands from Buffalo in addition to featuring local talent.

The Coach Sports Bar, 19 West Main, also usually has music on Saturday nights from 9 to 1 p.m.

Even the village’s newest restaurant, Cobblestone on Main, at 109 West Main, has dipped its toes into the local music scene. Cobblestone has already hosted Claudia Hoyser three times, and will be welcoming Amy Montrois later this month and in May.

Owner Dan Bresnahan has chosen to schedule his live music dates on Wednesdays, so he doesn’t step on any other venue’s toes. At least for now, however, he doesn’t expect to host entertainers every week, but rather have them in for special events. But, he adds, “We want to help support local music. They suffered as much as anybody during COVID.”

This weekend in particular is a big one for local music, thanks in large part to Saturday being “Parade Day.” For some bars and restaurants, Rochester’s St. Patrick’s Day parade marks the beginning of the St. Patrick’s Day season. So in addition to the regular music dates mentioned above, several venues have added even more bands to their schedules.

Barry’s Old School Irish’s Saturday music schedule, for example, begins with a traditional Irish session at 10 a.m. and continues all day and evening with three more bands. (Click here to see the whole schedule). Cobblestone is featuring two bands, Sean Rosenberry from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by Leecy & Greg from 6 to 9 p.m.

On St. Patrick’s Day itself next Thursday, look for even more music at Barry’s Old School Irish.

As the pandemic continues to wane and we all feel more and more like going out in the evenings and getting back to normal, it’s great to know there are so many opportunities so close by to enjoy exceptional live music. And it’ll only get better as the weather gets warmer and the music gets piped onto the patios. (Or sometimes the musicians themselves set up outside.)

Thank you to the pub and restaurant owners who understand how important music is in our lives, and for supporting our local musicians.

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

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Barry’s Irish trad sessions highlighted in City Newspaper article

4 Mar

The weekly Saturday afternoon Irish traditional music sessions at Barry’s Old School Irish were featured front and center this week in an article published in City Newspaper.

For the article — which almost certainly was timed for the newspaper’s March issue because of St. Patrick’s Day — author Daniel Kushner visited at least two of the three Irish sessions which take place weekly in the Rochester area, at Johnny’s Irish Pub, the Chatlotte Tavern and Barry’s Old School Irish.

Kushner did a great job capturing the history, tradition and culture surrounding these traditional music sessions. But he didn’t stop there; Kushner also dug even deeper into Irish trad culture and history by interviewing Ted McGraw, one of the original members of the Rochester branch of the Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Irish musicians’ association, and long-time host of the Irish Party House radio program.

The Saturday sessions at Barry’s happen every week from 2 to 5 p.m. If you’ve been in the pub during those hours, you’ve probably seen the musicians huddled in a circle over by the bakery case. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about who they are and why they’re there, click here to check out the article.

Since we’re talking about Barry’s Old School Irish, I want to let you know that our favorite Irish pub is gearing up for St. Patrick’s Day in a big way. I mean, special events have already begun.

Barry’s is welcoming St. Patrick’s Day festivities back after a COVID-induced hiatus by peppering the next few weeks liberally with music, whiskey tastings, dancers, a personalized Guinness pint night, green-themed trivia and a whole day filled with events on Parade Day (March 12), culminating of course on St. Patrick’s Day itself, when the pub opens at 8 a.m. with Irish coffees and breakfast.

There’s too much going on to put it all here. You can visit Barry’s Old School Irish’s Facebook page for more details about all of these.

Barry’s Old School Irish is located at 2 West Main St., at the Village of Webster’s four corners.

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

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Folk music has found a home in the Village of Webster

20 Feb

Anyone familiar with the Village of Webster probably knows by now that our corner pub, Barry’s Old School Irish, is THE place to find authentic Irish music. Fewer people realize, however, that every weekend Barry’s is also home to the best folk music in town, performed by the Webster Saturday Folk Jam.

Stop into Barry’s Old School Irish any Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. and you’ll find a group of folk musicians circled around tables in the bakery side of the pub. They’re mostly playing guitars, with an occasional mandolin, banjo, bass or ukulele joining the mix. But they’re all playing, and they’re all singing, jamming to tunes we all know and filling the pub with beautiful music.

The Webster Saturday Folk Jam was established just over five years ago by Webster resident Dave Wyble, who’s led the weekly sessions since day one. He was inspired by a similar group hosted by the Golden Link Folk Singing Society, which has been holding Tuesday-night “sing-arounds” for more than 50 years.

Wyble, a self-described Golden Link “lurker” and folk musician himself (he and his wife Patty have their own duo, Doctor’s Orders), liked the idea of bringing more music to the pub. At the same time, he added, hosting a weekly jam would help him improve his own musical skills, learn more about folk music, and share that knowledge with others.

The Webster Saturday Folk Jams, however, have always been different in one big way from the sing-arounds which inspired them.

The Golden Link philosophy focuses as much on the history of the music as the music itself, Wyble explained. “It’s more about the culture of folk music, what folk music has brought to the culture in addition to the actual tunes.”  

“Their focus is more on keeping alive the folk tradition,” he added. “When you sing a song (at the sing-arounds) you’re more or less expected to introduce it in some way,” telling of its history or where you learned it, before playing the song for the assembled musicians. Sometimes others will play along, but mostly everyone else just sits back and listens. 

It’s not unusual for up to 25 musicians to join the sing-arounds, which mean that usually there’s only enough time for each musician to perform once. Wyble wanted his Webster Saturday Folk Jam sessions to offer more playing opportunities than that.

“I wanted a new form of group where all in attendance had the opportunity to play along if they so desired,” he said. To facilitate that, everyone works from the same two songbooks, Rise Up Singing and Rise Again. That way, everyone has the chords and lyrics in front of them for every song played.

Between them, the books have about 2500 songs, and they’re not all what you might consider “folk classics.” For sure, folkies like Pete Seeger, Peter Paul & Mary and Woodie Guthrie are well represented. But you’ll also find Jason Mraz, Mumford & Sons, Ed Sheeran and Green Day. There’s even a whole chapter called “Millenial Songs.”

Working from common songbooks also makes it easy for anyone in the listening crowd to join in.

“If someone comes along and looks interested,” Wyble said, “I will hand them a book and say, ‘Here, pick one of these and we’ll do our best to play it with you. … I might not know the song, but if you can sing it and I’ve got the chords in front of me, I will play it for you.'” 

“That’s the kind of inclusivity that we’ve always tried to maintain here. Make it so that it’s a group environment. Because folk music by its definition is the music that the folk sing,” a description he attributes to Pete Seeger.  

The group was successful from the very beginning, drawing musicians from all over the area, including several Golden Link board members. The first session, held on January 7, 2017, attracted nine musicians, most of whom still attend regularly. Since then, the circle might have as few as four or five, whereas other weeks as many as a dozen musicians and their instruments have had to squeeze into the bakery corner.

The pandemic didn’t even slow them down too much.

Like everything else, the Webster Saturday Folk Jams took a big hit from COVID. The sessions moved to Zoom for several months when the pandemic began, then returned in-person for a few months over the summer until Delta and Omicron drove them back online.

In-person sessions have returned to the pub again, however. For two hours last Saturday, Barry’s Old School Irish was once again filled with folk harmonies, getting toes tapping and the pub singing.

Being part of the crowd was kind of like sitting around a campfire with good friends. And that’s exactly what the Webster Saturday Folk Jam is all about.

Click here to find out more about the Webster Saturday Folk Jam, or better yet, stop by Barry’s Old School Irish any Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. to see what it’s all about. Bring your voice, bring an instrument, or just bring your love of folk music. You’ll be welcome no matter what.

Barry’s is located at 2 West Main St. in the Village of Webster.

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

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Fall in love with Webster (Week 4)

19 Feb

The Village of Webster’s exciting Fall in Love With Webster month-long community celebration is almost over. All month, residents and visitors to our fine village have been enjoying merchant discounts and special events, all embracing the theme of love.

Being this is the last week, you’ve only got a few days left to collect trivia answers. Look for questions and answers posted in the windows of participating shops, write down the answer and bring them all to Barry’s Old School Irish on Feb. 23 for the weekly trivia contest, and compete for fabulous prizes. More than 30 village businesses are participating!

Here’s what’s coming up this week:

All week:

❤ Thinking of Others: Be Someone’s Secret Admirer!

The Village of Webster is inviting everyone to be an old-fashioned “secret admirer” anytime during the month. You could send flowers to someone, or just pay it forward at the drive through. It’s all about thoughtfulness. Have fun!

❤ NEJFD Fire District boot drive

Our Northeast Joint Fire District firefighters are hosting a boot drive. All month, Barry’s Old School Irish and Lala of Webster will each have a real firefighter’s boot to accept your donations. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Webster Comfort Care.

❤ All week: Blind Date With a Book Sale at Yesterday’s Muse

This sounds like a lot of fun. Customers pay $5 to buy a mystery book, which is wrapped in plain brown paper with a genre and description written on the outside. Ooo…how fun! Which one will you choose?What a fun and romantic way to share some love, read a book, and make some February memories all the while supporting a local merchant. Sounds like a win for everyone! Who’s your mystery date? Find it at Yesterday’s Muse.

❤ Feb. 21 – 24: Frozen Dance Camp at ROC Dance

Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf & the Roc Dance faculty this winter break as and dance to all your favorite Frozen songs! Daily arts & crafts, games, songs and dancing to keep your little one busy during February Break. this feb break! Click here for more information.

❤ Feb. 22 – 24: February Break Camp at the Webster Rec, ages 6-11

Sign up the kids for this fun camp featuring games, crafts, gym, and more. For ges 6-11. Sign up here

❤ Feb. 22, 7 p.m.: Live Practice Session: Chorus of the Genesee

The Chorus sings four-part “a cappella” music, specializing in barbershop harmony, an original American art form. Click here to find out more about the Chorus of the Genesee and how you can get involved.  

❤ Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m.: Barry’s Crossword Puzzle and Webster Trivia Night

Barry’s Old School Irish’s weekly trivia night will have a crossword theme AND Village of Webster trivia theme! In addition to general knowledge questions set up in Crossword Puzzle format, they’ll also be asking Webster trivia questions. Get a leg up by collecting all of the answers ahead of time. They;re located in the merchant store windows. More info here, including how to reserve your table.

❤ Feb. 24, 5 to 7 p.m.: Betty White Night at Lala’s

Join us for a celebration of this amazing lady. Wear your favorite pearls and get ready to share in some snarky happenings! Food, drink, and birthday cake, of course! “Betty’s Happy Hour” will also offer a sneak peek into our winter and spring 2022 Charlie Paige clothing line. Plus, Ohhh, Lordee Everything Sauce will be catering the event. Call 585-236-1604 if you have any questions.

❤ Feb. 24, 4 – 8 p.m..: Golden Hour at Jojo’s

In conjunction with Lala’s Betty White Night, Jojo Bistro and Wine Bar will be offering a Betty White-inspired cocktail menu. Stop in for a “Betty White,” “Rose Nyland” or a non-alcoholic “Golden Girl.” Plus there’s live music, featuring the über-talented Amanda Ashley from 6 to 8 p.m.

❤ Feb. 24, 10:30 a.m.: Irish Star Block Class at the Village Quilt Shoppe

The points of these wonky stars are easy to create when you have the right tool – the Creative Grids Lazy Angle, that is! Combine them with four-patches for an intricate looking block that can be made in an afternoon! Finished size is 12 in. x 37 in. Call the Village Quilt Shoppe at 585-626-6916 to sign up.

❤ Feb. 25, 11 a.m.: Trunk Show: Sallie Tomato at the Village Quilt Shoppe

Taking a walk? Going to a festival or quilt show? Travel light with our Sophie cell phone and card case pattern. By carrying your cell phone and ID/credit card with this convenient cell phone holder, you won’t be weighed down by a traditional crossbody bag. Give the Village Quilt Shoppe ladies a call at 585-626-6916 to sign up. 

❤ Feb. 25 to 27: Heart to Heart Bride Trunk Show: Sincerity Bridal

Click here to find out which styles will be at the shop for that weekend only, or call 585-872-9696. 

❤ Feb. 26, 10 a.m.: Polar Bear Fun Run sponsored by Webster Parks and Recreation.

This is a one-mile fun run/walk or stroll through the beautiful Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve. There’s no charge, but click here to register.

❤ Also, all month you’ll find specials at Finn’s Garage (to benefit Heritage Christian Stables), Savage Chef, Professional Nutrition Services, Webster Eyecare Associates, Nut & Bolt Tattoo, Orville’s Home Appliances, Nest Things, Performance Hobbies and Webster Interiors.

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More details about all these events can be found on the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page.

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

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Local business strives to give back

14 Feb

You’d think that having written this blog for 14 years, I’d know pretty much everything there is to know about Webster. But once in a while I have the distinct pleasure of discovering something new, and learning about a business I’d never known before. 

That was the case with Gleason Orthodontics. The practice, headed by Dr. James Gleason, is located at 246 South Ave., basically right around the corner from my home. I’ve driven and walked by it hundreds of times, but had never given it a second thought. 

Last week, however, the name Gleason Orthodontics came across my radar twice, with regards to their participation in community events. Clearly this was a business that not only wanted to get more involved in the Webster community, but was actively searching out opportunities to do so. 

I had to meet them.

I knew I was in the right place when I walked into the office and Gleason’s marketing coordinator, Amy Gilmore, had to move a pile of handmade Valentines from a chair to give me room to sit down. Turns out they were having their young patients make cards for the residents of The Maplewood nursing home. She and the other staff members were making some as well, just to make sure there was a Valentine for each one of the Maplewood’s 72 residents.

Right next to the Valentines was a box filled with dental-health-inspired goodie bags which they were planning to hand out to children at the Webster Recreation Center. Amy explained that projects like these are their way of giving back to the area and the patients they serve, giving back to the people who have helped build the practice. 

“Most of our patients are here in Webster,” she said. “Instead of (Dr. Gleason) just dropping money here or there to organizations he doesn’t know about, he said, why don’t we invest in the community, invest in the people that we serve and we help? That’s really what we’re striving to do.”

The Valentine’s Day cards and goodie bags are just the beginning. Gleason is always looking for opportunities where they can give back. Their participation in the ongoing Fall in Love With Webster community celebration is a good example. All this month, they’re offering to buy Girl Scout cookies from anyone selling them, which they’ll then donate to veterans. (Call Amy at Gleason Orthodontics, 585-872-3355, if you’re interested.)  

The list of events like that which the practice is supporting is long and getting longer every day. It already includes the Mud Run at Webster Parks and Recreation, sponsoring the Kona Ice truck at the Summer Bash, participating in Community Arts Day and the Greater Rochester Peep Show.  

So keep your eye out for the Gleason Orthodontics logo, or better yet, the table they’ve set up at the next Webster community event. Then make sure to stop by and thank them for all their support for our community. 

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

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Songs for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day

13 Feb

Count on the great guys of the Chorus of the Genesee to come up with a charming idea for Valentine’s Day.

All this month, the Chorus has been opening up their weekly Tuesday-night rehearsals to the community, as part of the Village of Webster’s Fall in Love With Webster event. But this week, in honor of Valentine’s Day, they’ve cooked up something special.

Bring your sweetheart to the Harmony House on Tuesday Feb. 15 from 7:30 to 8 p.m., where she (or he!) will be serenaded with love songs. Enjoy a romantic atmosphere, a mimosa and perhaps a few other surprises thrown in. It’s free, but they’d love for you to register so they have an idea of how many to expect. Click here to do that.  

The Harmony House is located at 58 East Main St., Webster.

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

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Fall in love with Webster (Week 3)

12 Feb

The Village of Webster’s exciting Fall in Love With Webster month-long community celebration is halfway over! All month, residents and visitors to our fine town are enjoying merchant discounts and special events, all embracing the theme of love.

I imagine you’ve noticed all of the decorations merchants are putting up and the trivia questions posted in the windows. Everyone really seems to be getting into the spirit.

PLUS, the event has attracted the attention of Wendy Mills from Spectrum News, who came out early last week to see what all the excitement’s about. Click here to see that story, which was televised on Wednesday.

Here’s what’s coming up this week. Check back next Sunday to see what’s scheduled for the last week!

❤ Thinking of Others: Be Someone’s Secret Admirer!

The Village of Webster is inviting everyone to be an old-fashioned “secret admirer” anytime during the month. You could send flowers to someone, or just pay it forward at the drive through. It’s all about thoughtfulness. Have fun!

❤ NEJFD Boot Drive

Our Northeast Joint Fire District firefighters are hosting a boot drive. All month, Barry’s Old School Irish and Whimsies (new shop next to Lala’s) will each have a real firefighter’s boot to accept your donations. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Webster Comfort Care.

❤ All week: Blind Date With a Book Sale at Yesterday’s Muse

This sounds like a lot of fun. Customers pay $5 to buy a mystery book, which is wrapped in plain brown paper with a genre and description written on the outside. What a fun and romantic way to share some love, read a book, and make some February memories all the while supporting a local merchant. Who’s your mystery date? Find it at Yesterday’s Muse.

❤ All week: HEAT WEEK at Webster Hots

Webster Hots is offering some “heat” this week with spicy specials. Stop by to pick up a meal or two during the this week of love and romance! Call (585) 265-0824.  

❤ Feb. 14: Heart-shaped donuts at Dunkin’ Donuts

Start your Valentine’s Day on a sweet note with a heart-shaped donut from Dunkin’ Donuts on North Ave. in the village.

❤ Feb. 14: Heart-shaped pizza from Salvatore’s

One day only…heart-shaped pizzas from Salvatore’s. Or order something from their large menu. Call 585-872-2210 or check out their website.

❤ Feb. 14: Valentine’s Dinner at Brimont Bistro

This French-based cuisine bistro is offering a beef tenderloin with all the trimmings. Call (585) 872-3170 or check out their website.

❤ Feb. 14: Cobblestone on Main Valentine’s Dinner — Reservations accepted!

Cobblestone on Main, which doesn’t normally accept reservation, is doing so for this one very special day. Check out their website and start planning your evening!

❤ Feb. 14 to 18: Share the Love free dance classes at Roc Dance

All week, Roc Dance will be offering free classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hop hop and acro for kids ages 2 and up, and there’s even a Mommy and Me class. Click here for more information.

❤ Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m.: Sweetheart Serenade at the Harmony House

The Chorus of the Genesee will be hosting another live practice session tonight at the Harmony House, but this one comes with a romantic twist. Bring your sweetheart by from 7:30 to 8 p.m., where she (or he!) will be serenaded with love songs. Enjoy a romantic atmosphere, a mimosa and perhaps a few other surprises. It’s free! Click here to find out more and to register so they have an idea of how many are coming.  

❤ Feb. 15, 4 p.m.: Class for Cause: Scrapping for Charity at the Village Quilt Shoppe

The Village Quilt Shoppe is having another great event, this time with a charity twist. Come help them cut fabric squares to help women in Honduras make quilts to support their families.What a great cause! Call today to sign up and help support this great mission effort. 585-626-6916.

❤ Feb. 15, 7 p.m.: Music: Eggman’s Traveling Carnival at Pub 235

Eggman’s Traveling Carnival plays songs from the 60s and 70s. The evening also features the Monsters of the Midway.

❤ Feb. 16: Carl’s Pizza Colossal Calzone and Pizza Deal

Two great deals today at Carl’s: a colossal calzone for $12.99 (with two toppings, ricotta cheese, mozzarella and two sides of sauce) and a 14“ medium, one-topping for $13.99. Click here for a link to Carl’s menu in case you want some other options.

❤ Feb. 17: Random Acts of Kindness Day, compliments Kittelberger Florist!

When you visit select merchants today, you might just be handed a flower, courtesy Kittelberger Florist. Kittelberger is celebrating National Random Acts of Kindness Day by providing a bouquet of flowers to any interested merchant, to hand out randomly today. If you happen to get a flower, post a picture to the Fall in Love With Webster Fabebook page!

❤ Feb. 17: The North Bee 20% off One Day Only

Shop in-store or online and receive 20% off your total purchase, plusreceive an entry for you and a friend for a chance to win a $50 gift card. Use code KINDNESS20.

❤ Feb. 17, 10:30 a.m.: Wool Mat Class at the Village Quilt Shoppe

Village Quilt Shoppe offers another fun event: wool mat. Are you new to working with wool applique or do you need to refine your skills. If yes, then this class is for you. Call 585-626-6916 to sign up!

❤ Feb. 17, 6-8 p.m.: Live music at Jojo Bistro and Wine Bar

There’s always great food, good drink, super atmosphere and lots of friends at Jojo Bistro and Wine Bar, 42 East Main St. And on Thursday nights, that also includes live music. Tonight, enjoy pop, folk, oldies and contemporary tunes with the occasional Irish twist, served up by Sean Rosenberry.

❤ Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m.: Barry’s Old School Irish St. Practice Day

Join the gang at Barry’s for beer, reps from Guinness, Irish music, good food and great friends. Check out the details here.

❤ Feb. 19, 9 p.m.: State Line at The Coach Sports Bar

State Line is a modern country cover band from Rochester. Visit The Coach website or call 585-872-2910.

❤ Also, all month you’ll find specials at Finn’s Garage (to benefit Heritage Christian Stables), Savage Chef, Professional Nutrition Services, Webster Eyecare Associates, Nut & Bolt Tattoo, Orville’s Home Appliances, Performance Hobbies, Nest Things and Webster Interiors.

❤ ❤ ❤

More details about all these events and what’s coming up the rest of the month at the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page. Make sure to “like” the page to get regular updates, because new events are being added every day.

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

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We should all celebrate this holiday

10 Feb

In the great jumble of random, nonsense holidays that have cropped up over the years (did you forget to celebrate National Science Fiction Day on Jan. 2?), there is one that I think deserves some notice.

Next Thursday is Random Acts of Kindness Day. It originated in Denver, Colorado in 1995, and is celebrated every year on Feb. 17. The idea behind the “holiday” is to make the world a little brighter through simple, unexpected, kind gestures, words and actions. There’s even a Random Acts of Kindness foundation, which celebrates the event for an entire week.

Goodness knows, right now this world needs more kindness. So today I’d like to challenge my readers to follow the official foundation’s lead: next week, at least once a day, do some random act of kindness.

What you do doesn’t have to be elaborate. It could be as simple as telling that teenager with the blue hair that you really like the color. Or helping an elderly couple put their groceries in the car. Or putting a loving note in your child’s backpack. Every day we encounter dozens of opportunities like these to make someone’s day a bit brighter. All we have to do is notice them, then DO something with them.

As part of the Village of Webster’s month-long Fall in Love With Webster celebration, Kittelberger Florist has come up with a very special act of kindness. They’re providing bouquets of flowers to any village businessowner who wants one. Then, on Thursday, those merchants will hand individual flowers out randomly to customers who enter their shops.

What a great way to spread kindness throughout the entire community.

Need some ideas on what you can do to celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Week? You can ask Google for ideas, or click here for a .pdf listing … well, a LOT of suggestions. You can take notes or print the entire list to post on the fridge.

I’d love to hear how you helped spread kindness next week. Drop me an email!

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

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Fall in love with Webster! (Week 2)

5 Feb

The Village of Webster’s Fall in Love With Webster month-long community celebration has begun! All month, residents and visitors will enjoy merchant discounts and special events, all embracing the theme of love.

The goal is to promote a fun way to unify the village residents and business owners. But it’s also all about helping community members get to know our village a little better, find out more about our many fine businesses, and encourage everyone to get more involved in all of the activities found here.

Here’s what’s coming up this week. Check back this weekend to see what’s scheduled for week 3. And for a whole list of the month’s events, visit the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page.

All month:

❤ The Village of Webster is inviting everyone to be an old-fashioned “secret admirer” anytime during the month. You could send flowers to someone, or just pay it forward at the drive through. It’s all about thoughtfulness. Have fun!

❤ NEJFD Boot Drive

Our Northeast Joint Fire District firefighters are hosting a boot drive. All month, Barry’s Old School Irish and Whimsies (new shop next to Lala’s) will each have a real firefighter’s boot to accept your donations. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Webster Comfort Care.

❤ Gleason Orthodontics Girl Scout Cookies for veterans

Gleason Orthodontics wants to buy Girl Scout cookies and donate them to veterans. If your daughter is selling cookies, or you know someone who is, call Gleason Orthodontics at (585) 872-3355 to let them know you’d like to participate.

❤ Sunday Feb. 6: Webster was “born”

On February 6, 1840, Governor William Seward announced the birth of Webster, New York. Originally part of North Penfield, land was split off to create the new town. Almost 2,500 residents inhabited the new town. The first town meeting was held at John Lett’s tavern, about 3/4 mile south of the present village. Click here to read more cool trivia about this great place we call Webster. Webster!

❤ All week: Valentine’s cards for Maplewood residents

The folks at Gleason Orthodontics are making cards to deliver to the residents at The Maplewood. If you and your family would like to donate some of your own feel free to drop them off any weekday this week between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Gleason Orthodontics is located at 246 South Ave.

❤ Feb. 7: National Send a Card to a Friend Day

On February 7, help celebrate National Send a Card to a Friend Day! Check out this link for a little history and some ideas of what to do.  

❤ All week: Yarn sale at Village HandWorks

All this week, all red and pink yarns will be 20% off at Village HandWorks. Plus, select Artisan crafted goods and gifts are 10% off! Visit the website or call 585-236-1135 for more information.

❤ All week: Blind Date With a Book Sale at Yesterday’s Muse

This sounds like a lot of fun. Customers pay $5 to buy a mystery book wrapped in plain brown paper with a genre and description written on the outside. It’s a fun and romantic way to share some love, read a book, and make some February memories all the while supporting a local merchant. Find your mystery date at Yesterday’s Muse.

❤ Feb. 7 to 8: $10 pizza special at The Coach Sports Bar

Call 585-872-2910 to place your order or stop in! The Coach makes dough from scratch daily with the freshest toppings.

❤ Feb. 8, 7 p.m.: Live Practice Session: Chorus of the Genesee

The Chorus sings four-part “a cappella” music, specializing in barbershop harmony, an original American art form. Click here to find out more about the Chorus of the Genesee and how you can get involved.  

❤ Feb. 8, 1 p.m.: Sew Speedy at the Village Quilt Shoppe

Do you enjoy paper piecing, but not enough for a full project? Looking to practice paper piecing, along with some “regular” piecing? Here’s Sew Speedy! Though the original pattern finishes at 32” square, you can play with the components to make it any size you wish. Sew Speedy is perfect for those who have had some practice with paper piecing. Call 585-626-6916 to register!

❤ Feb. 9: National Pizza Day at Carl’s Pizza Kitchen

The world has spoken and declared this day as National Pizza Day! Carl’s Pizza Kitchen has put together a sweetHEART offer for this day: One topping, heart-shaped pies! Large 20″ for $19.99, or a medium for $14.99. Click here for some fun facts about this fun holiday.

❤ Feb. 10: Thirsty Thursday at Roc Style Chicken and Burger

Join the gang at Roc Style Chicken and Burger for a Buy One, Get One 1/2 Off beer and wine drinks all day. Grab your favorite beverage and pair it with a delicious sandwich or burger topped with one of Roc Style’s amazing choice of tasty sauces. Check out their website for a preview of their menu and plan your visit. Call 585-236-1902 if you have any questions.

❤ Feb. 11, 5:30 p.m.: DK Dance Fairytale Ball

A one-day event sponsored by DK Dance. All princes and princesses ages 3-10 are invited to the ball to get dressed up and dance. Click here to register.

❤ Feb. 11, 6 p.m.: Get Your Glow On at Webster Parks & Rec

An evening of family-friendly games and dancing. Wear your neon and glow gear. It’s free for everyone, and npo registration is required. More information here.

❤ Feb. 12, 11 a.m.: Serenity Life Counseling Services Virtual Class: Love Yourself Therapy Group

Join us for a free virtual art therapy experience, appropriate for all ages, families, couples or individuals (adult help will be needed for the “littles”). Art materials are provided. Click here to register.    

❤ Feb. 12, 9 p.m.: 6 Feet Apart and the Super Spreader Horns at The Coach

Live dance, funk, rock and soul music. Visit The Coach website or call 585-872-2910 with any questions.

❤ Feb. 12 and 13: Share the Love free dance classes at Roc Dance

Saturday, Sunday and all next week take advantage of free dance classes at Roc Dance in the village. Classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hop hop and acro are for kids ages 2 and up, and there’s even a Mommy and Me class. Click here for more information.

❤ Feb. 13, 9 a.m.: Football and Fitness Fun at Webster Parks & Recreation

Start out Super Bowl Sunday with some new friends and a great workout at the Football and Fitness Fun exercise class. Earn raffle entries for cool prizes just by showing up in a football jersey or team colors. Click here for more information.

❤ Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.: Filling Station Pub & Grill Customer Appreciation Day

In honor of The Filling Station’s 4th anniversary, there will be free giveaways during the Super Bowl. Click here for more information.

❤ Also, all month you’ll find specials at Finn’s Garage (to benefit Heritage Christian Stables), Savage Chef, Professional Nutrition Services, Webster Eyecare Associates, Nest Things, Nut & Bolt Tattoo, Performance Hobbies and Webster Interiors.

❤ And don’t forget about the trivia challenge. Look for a trivia question and answer in the window of each participating store, write down the answer and bring them all to Barry’s Old School Irish on Feb. 23 for the weekly trivia contest. The week’s theme? WEBSTER! The questions will be based on all the trivia posted around town.

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More details about all these events and what’s coming up the rest of the month at the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page. Make sure to “like” the page to get regular updates, because new events are being added every day.

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

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Fall in love with Webster, starting Tuesday!

30 Jan

The Village of Webster’s exciting Fall in Love With Webster month-long community celebration begins Tuesday, Feb.1, featuring four weeks of merchant discounts and special events, all embracing the theme of love.

Almost three dozen business owners are participating, offering discounts or hosting special events pretty much every day of the week (or all month), with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. Village Hall has even gotten into the act, hanging heart-emblazoned banners along the light poles on Main Street.

There’s even a trivia challenge. Each of the participating businesses will be placing a trivia fact about their business or product in their front window. Your challenge is to collect all the trivia answers and on Wednesday Feb. 23, bring them to Barry’s Old School Irish for the weekly trivia contest. The week’s theme? WEBSTER! The questions will be based on all the trivia posted around town.

The goal is to promote a fun way to unify the village residents and business owners. But it’s also all about helping community members get to know our village a little better, find out more about our many fine businesses, and encourage everyone to get more involved in all of the activities found here.

Here’s what’s coming up this week. Check back this weekend to see what’s scheduled for week 2, and get ready to Fall in Love With Webster!

❤ All month: Thinking of Others: Be Someone’s Secret Admirer!

The Village of Webster is inviting everyone to be an old-fashioned “secret admirer” anytime during the month. You could send flowers to someone, or just pay it forward at the drive through. It’s all about thoughtfulness. Have fun!

❤ NEjFD Boot Drive

Our Northeast Joint Fire District firefighters are hosting a boot drive. All month, Barry’s Old School Irish and Whimsies (new shop next to Lala’s) will each have a real firefighter’s boot to accept your donations. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Webster Comfort Care. 

❤ Feb. 1, 7 p.m.: Live Practice Session: Chorus of the Genesee

The Chorus sings four-part “a cappella” music, specializing in barbershop harmony, an original American art form. Click here to find out more about the Chorus of the Genesee and how you can get involved.  

❤ Feb. 1: $.75 wings all day at The Coach Sports Bar

Call 585-872-2910 or stop by. Every Tuesday enjoy $.75 chicken wings! Click here to visit The Coach website.

❤ All week (beginning Feb. 2): Yarn sale at Village HandWorks

All red and pink yarns at Village HandWorks will be 20% off. Plus, select artisan-crafted goods and gifts, all 10% off. Visit the Village HandWorks website or call 585-236-1135 for more information.

❤ Feb. 2: National Groundhog Day 

There’s more to this fun day than a groundhog seeing his shadow or not! Check out this page and have some fun…no matter what Phil says! Watching Groundhog Day with Bill Murray has also become a fun tradition on this day! Also, there are many videos, music and activities, even FOOD surrounding this day!

❤ Feb. 2: Carl’s Pizza Colossal Calzone and Pizza Deal 

Carl’s is offering a sweetheart of a deal today: a colossal calzone for just $12.99. It comes with choice of two toppings, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and two sides of sauce. Orm get a 14“ medium, one-topping pizza for $13.99. Click here to see Carl’s menu for more options.

❤ Feb. 3, 7 p.m.: Bling a Picture at Crafty Christie’s Boutique

Create something amazing with Christy! She’ll provide the picture frames and scrap materials to create your own masterpiece, or bring your own favorite treasure and make it even more amazing! These classes fill up quickly so call 585-236-1131 or reach out through her website. 

❤ Feb 4.: National Wear Red Day: On this day in February, which is considered American Heart Month, everyone across the country dons the color red in order to raise and spread awareness in hopes to help eradicate heart disease and stroke in millions of women all over the nation. Click here to learn more about this special day and share with friends and family.  

❤ Feb. 4: Burke’s National Wear Red Day “Famous Burger” special

In honor of National Wear Red Day, Burke’s Grill will take $1 off their famous burgers for everyone who comes in wearing something red. Find out more about Burke’s Grill here.   

❤ Feb. 4 to 6: Stella York Trunk Show at Heart to Heart Bride

Heart to Heart Bride’s next Stella York Trunk Show will be Feb. 4 to 6. Check the website for the styles that will be there for that weekend only or call 585-872-9696.

❤ Feb. 5, 1 p.m: Pre-Superbowl hors d’oeuvres tasting with Ohhh, Lordee Everything Sauces

Having a Superbowl party? Looking for something new? Check out this event and stop in to taste these great local sauces! Laurie is serving hors d’oeuvres using her famous sauce. Check the Ohhhlordee Facebook page for more details.

❤ Also, all month you’ll find specials at Finn’s Garage (to benefit Heritage Christian Stables), Savage Chef, Professional Nutrition Services, Webster Eyecare Associates, Nut & Bolt Tattoo, Nest Things and Webster Interiors.

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More details about all these events and what’s coming up the rest of the month at the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page. Make sure to “like” the page to get regular updates, because new events are being added every day. 

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

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