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Library program helps caregivers find their village

13 Jan

I had the opportunity last week to attend a terrific program at the Webster Public Library (WPL) which I wanted to share with you all.

It was one of a series of panel discussions which the library hosts every month to share information and resources with caregivers of people with disabilities. Called “Diverse Abilities Dialogues,” the discussions cover topics such as communication strategies, financial planning, housing options, work placement and more.

The series is being coordinated by Jenny Paxson, WPL’s Reader’s Discovery Librarian, assisted by Brittany Jencik of Parents Helping Parents Coalition of Monroe County. Their goal is to help people in the community make connections, so that — as Jencik said — “Nobody has to walk this journey alone. It’s tough enough when you have a village. It’s almost impossible to do it alone.”

The discussion I attended that day was all about “complementary therapies” — basically, activities and opportunities for children and adults with disabilities which offer physical and emotional benefits. The panelists that day were Dave Nicchitta from Strike Back Martial Arts, Mike Tuller from Abilities Movement, Sarah Beren from Spotted Rabbit Studio, Sara McLaughlin from EquiCenter and Chad Cassano from Cassano Studios. Each of the participants had a chance to introduce their business to the dozen or so people in attendance, explaining what services they offer for people with disabilities.

I heard about creative art classes; jujitsu classes for children and adults with autism and Down syndrome; therapy riding, beekeeping and farming programs; adaptive fitness and kayaking programs; and voice acting lessons.

It was enlightening to hear about all of these opportunities, and realize they’re only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the kinds of services caregivers can access within the Rochester area to help their loved ones. To a person, the presenters emphasized that their classes are all about building self-acceptance, making connections and thinking in new ways. The goal is to understand each person’s needs, meet them where their abilities are and guide them to their highest potential.

The Diverse Abilities Dialogue series is a valuable resource for caregivers, and it’s absolutely free to attend. The schedule for the next few months is:

To register, click on the hyperlink for each class. You don’t HAVE to register, but if you do, you’ll get an emailed reminder about the upcoming event.

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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 1/13/2026)

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Webster Library’s services keep getting better

9 Jan

If you know ANYTHING about our Webster Public Library, you know that this terrific organization is so much more than just books. In addition to all the other resources they offer — like experience kits, puzzles, Kindles, GoPros, snowshoes, even light therapy lamps — they also have a wide range of programs for kids, families and adults of all ages.

I thought I knew pretty much all there is to know about the library, but I just found out about two new-ish offerings which are rather cool.

The first is a new “Senior Newsletter” geared for adults ages 55 and up. It will include informational resources for seniors, large print books arriving soon and newly added to the library’s collection, and upcoming library events geared towards seniors. 

The first edition will be sent out soon. Click here to become one of the first subscribers, and it’ll be delivered to your email box once a month.

This next resource is called “Kanopy,” a streaming platform through which patrons can access free, ad-free movies and TV shows with their library card. Users can get unlimited access to “British Cinema and TV,” “Kanopy Favorites,” and “Kanopy Kids.” The service can be accessed on your TV, smartphone, tablet, and computer.

Access to Kanopy is provided to Webster taxpayers by the Webster Public Library, and only Webster residents who pay taxes to the Town of Webster can access it. Webster residents who pay Penfield taxes cannot. Click here to login to Kanopy with your library card.

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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 1/9/2026)

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Webster Community Mailbag

7 Jan

It’s a fairly short mailbag today; the new year is ramping up slowly, apparently.

GO BILLS!

The Buffalo Bills are in the playoffs, which means it’s time to celebrate at the Webster Recreation Center’s Buffalo Bills Hype Party!

This second-annual family-friendly event returns to the Rec Center on Friday, January 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission is free with a donation to Webster Hope (see below for a list of desired items).

There is SO MUCH fun planned, including:

  • souvenir laminated photo trading cards for all attendees from WeTheHobby
  • Music and trivia from Jeremy Andrzejewski (Mr. Brightside, anyone?)
  • Food (tailgate style, of course)
  • Vendors
  • Buffalo-themed lawn games
  • a Bracelet-making station
  • Temporary tattoos
  • Buffalo Bills stickers

and so much more.

Everything happens from 6 to 8 p.m. this Friday night at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr., off of Phillips.

Meet the new supervisor

Head back to the Rec Center on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to meet and chat with Alex Scialdone, the Town of Webster’s new supervisor. He’ll be holding his “community office hours,” so bring your questions and concerns, or just pop in to congratulate Alex on his win.

Library program features famous female cyclist

Cyclists and history lovers alike will be very interested in this special program coming up at the Webster Public Library on Thursday Jan. 15 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

It’s a presentation by local bike enthusiast Karen Lankeshofer about Elsa von Blumen, a famous Rochestarian and female bicyclist in the 1880s.

Von Blumen was a Rochesterian who, in the 1880s, raced high-wheeled bikes against horses, skaters, male cyclists, and eventually a growing number of women cyclists. Her first professional bike race was against a horse in Rochester’s Driving Park. From Rochester, she went on to race throughout the entire Eastern United States for a decade. Succeeding at the male-dominated sport at the time, von Blumen helped pave the way for other women to find the courage to break social taboos.

There’s no cost for the presentation but registration is required.

Connect and network with the Webster Chamber of Commerce

The Webster Chamber of Commerce has three events coming up, great opportunities for local business owners to connect with others and help bring exposure to their businesses.

  • The first is a New Year Open House on Friday Jan. 9. This will be a breakfast buffet, beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Chamber office, 1110 Crosspointe Lane, Suite C. This is a great opportunity for Chamber members, guests and visitors who are interested in investigating Chamber membership. Bring a door prizes for visibility and your business card so you can take your chance on one of the amazing door prizes! Registration is required.
  • The next is the Chamber’s monthly “Connect at Noon” networking event, this month scheduled for Wednesday Jan. 14 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd. These events are hosted by different Chamber members to acquaint others with the member’s place of business. Members and those investigating membership are welcome to attend. There’s no fee but registration is required.
  • Finally, the Webster Chamber’s regular Monthly Meeting (featuring a hot breakfast buffet) will be held Friday Jan. 30 from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd. Members, guests and visitors interested in pursuing Chamber membership are welcome to attend. These meetings are a chance to network, meet new contacts, develop current business relationships, learn, and earn visibility for your business or organization. Bring a door prize and your business card for your chance at winning. Reservations are required by Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Reminder about the Souper Bowl

A quick reminder about the Webster Comfort Care Home’s “Souper Bowl,” going on through Feb. 2. For just $15, you can order a quart of delicious soup, prepared by one of 11 different local restaurants and shops. (Check the website for choices.)

For another $5, you can even add four dinner rolls from Proietti’s to your order. And for just $5 more, you can add two oatmeal raisin or chocolate chip cookies. So basically, you can get an entire delicious meal for just $25, while supporting the Comfort Care Home at the same time. PLUS, order five or more quarts and you’ll be entered to win a one-hour massage at Wellness 360.

Souper Bowl 2026 is pre-order–only, from Dec. 29 through Feb. 2. Orders must be received by Feb. 2 at 9 a.m. and can be picked up on Saturday, February 7, from 10 a.m. to noon at Webster Presbyterian Church, 550 Webster Rd. Click here for more information and to order.

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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 1/7/2026)

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Library will host preschool open house

1 Jan

September and the next school year are still far away, but parents with preschoolers should start thinking about signing up for a preschool sooner rather than later, because many fill up rapidly.

The process can be overwhelming, trying to decide among the many options, comparing prices, staffing and facilities. The Webster Public Library wants to help make that process a lot less frustrating, with their annual Webster Area Preschool Fair.

It’s scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library, 980 Ridge Rd. Representatives from more than a dozen preschools will be available to chat and provide information about their programs. The participating preschools are located in Webster or a surrounding township and/or have a number of Webster students already attending their school.

These preschools will be represented:

No registration is required. Just stop in anytime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Plus, if you’re bringing your little one(s) with you, come a bit early to enjoy storytime at 10:30 a.m., then stay and make a craft anytime between 11 a.m and 4 p.m.

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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 1/1/2026)

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Webster community mailbag

26 Dec

Webster Museum’s Festival of Trees

There’s still time to vote for your favorite mini-Christmas Tree at the Webster Museum’s Festival of Trees.

Nineteen beautifully decorated trees have been set up around the museum, decorated by local non-profit agencies. Community members are invited to examine them all and vote for their favorite one. Votes will be accepted through the end of December. You can stop by the museum on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday from 2 to 4:30 to see them in person, or vote for your favorite online at the museum’s website.

Also, beginning Jan. 13, the museum will introduce their 2026 Quilt Exhibit, called “Stitched Stories: A Celebration of Vintage Quilts.” It will be on display in both the museum AND the Webster Public Library.

Start off the new year with a hike!

For the first time ever, Friends of Webster Trails will be hosting a free, guided First Day Hike at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1 at Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve.

This family-friendly hike will be about an hour over easy or moderate terrain. Dress in layers and have traction devices for your feet if necessary. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. 

Please register online for this event so they have an idea of how many to expect.  

Friends of Webster Trails is a volunteer organization dedicated to maintaining the public trails throughout Webster, including the Hojack Trail which runs through the village.

Village of Webster Christmas Tree Recycling

Curbside collection of Christmas trees will take place during the Village’s monthly brush pick up, the week of Jan. 5. Remember:

  • Live trees only, no artificial trees
  • Remove ornaments and lights
  • Do NOT put tree in a bag or cover with plastic
  • Place tree at curb by Sunday, January 4

News from Webster Comfort Care

Webster Comfort Care Home will be selling Kittelberger 12 Months of Flowers Cards from Jan. 5 through Jan. 26.

Cost is $50 and entitles the bearer to one fresh new bouquet of flowers every month for 12 months. For more information, click here. Payment accepted by cash, check or credit card. Cards can be picked up at Webster Comfort Care Home, 700 Holt Rd., from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Women’s Club announces January meeting

The Women’s Club of Webster will host their monthly general meeting and luncheon on Thursday, Jan. 22, at Nucci’s Restaurant, 807 Ridge Rd., Webster. The gathering begins with social time at 11:15, a business meeting at noon and lunch at 12:30, followed by a speaker. This month, the Women’s Club welcomes Margery Morgan from Webster Hope, a nonprofit organization which helps Webster residents in need of assistance by providing food, clothing and emergency financial support.

Cost of the luncheon is $23, and will feature a buffet with chicken parmigiana, pork loin, greens and beans, oven-roasted potatoes, penne with sauce, and salad. Cost is $23. Please send your check made out to the Women’s Club of Webster by Jan. 15 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, 14519. If you think your check might be late, please call Carolyn at 585-265-1303.

At the library …

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the Webster Public Library‘s January programs:

For adults:

  • Elsa von Blumen: Famous Rochestarian and Female Bicyclist — Thursday, Jan. 15, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Learn about Elsa, a famous Rochestarian in the 1800s. Registration is required.
  • Salaff String Quartet Concert — Thursday, Jan. 22, 4 to 5 p.m. Enjoy a variety of music from classic to folk, performed on string instruments. Registration is required.

For Teens and Tweens:

  • Make it Monday: Snowy Pine Cone Trees — Monday, Jan. 12, 6 to 7 p.m. Teens (grades 4 and up) and adults are welcome to attend this monthly craft night. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required.
  • T(w)een Library Club — Wednesday, Jan. 28, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For grades 4 and up. Do you like books, games, crafts, sharing your ideas, or just hanging out with your friends? This group is for you. Registration is required.

For the little ones:

  • Rubber Ducky Storytime — Tuesday Jan. 13, 10 to 10:30 a.m. Celebrate National Rubber Ducky Day with stories, songs and rhymes about ducks, plus an activity and simple craft. All ages are welcome.
  • Preschool Puzzle Morning –Tuesday, Jan. 27, 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by the storytime room to try an assortment of toddler-friendly puzzles.

And this stuff:

  • The Webster Library’s annual Webster-Area Preschool Fair will be held on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet representatives from many area preschools to learn about their programs, More to come about this.
  • Zaurac’s Space Music Show — Saturday, Jan. 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. Zaurac (also known as Steve Fentress), will perform a live celestial-themed keyboard concert complete with cosmic-themed songs and imagery. For all ages. Registration is required.
  • The January Community Exchange is cookbooks. Bring in some you don’t use anymore, and pick up some new-to-you ones.

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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 12/26/2025)

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New Webster Public Library decorations celebrate winter

23 Dec

A few days ago I wrote about some pretty terrific outdoor holiday decorations you can check out this season, but today I want to highlight an indoor display which you don’t want to miss. It’s at the Webster Public Library, and while this display doesn’t feature any Christmas lights, it’s delightful and beautiful in so many other ways.

For the next several weeks, library patrons will be immersed in a winter wonderland as they attend programs and browse the bookshelves. Fanciful winter-themed decorations are sprinkled throughout the space, including huge cups of hot cocoa brimming with marshmallows and whipped cream, a forest of snow-covered pine trees, monstrous paper snowballs threatening to drop on you from the ceiling typewriters with earmuffs (these made me LOL) paper chains, stars, snowflakes and more. But the star of the show has to be the whimsical gondola lift which stretches from a sparkling mountain range on the far wall across the circulation desk area, its cars transporting a variety of stuffed animals which peek from their windows.

The imaginative pieces were created by Linda Liddle, Circulation & Technical Services Supervisor, and Library Clerk Katrina Viza. They started planning their display back in October and worked bit by bit in the ensuing weeks to craft the different elements, trying to incorporate recycled materials as often as possible. Some of the hot chocolate cups, for example, are made from big flower pots found a long the side of the road. The cup handles are fashioned from pool noodles, and the typewriter ear muffs are made from dusters.

The artists chose a wintry landscape rather than a holiday theme, allowing everyone to enjoy the work while harmonizing with the coming Winter Olympics.

The library is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day but will be open again at 10 a.m. this Friday, and the display will be up through the Olympics. So there’s still plenty of time to check it out.

And don’t forget …

…When you head to the library, bring some new or hand-made winter items — gloves, hats or scarves — to put under the library’s Mitten Tree. All donations will be delivered to Webster Hope at the end of the year to share with our Webster neighbors in need.

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

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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 12/23/2025)

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Holiday celebrations in Webster continue

8 Dec

I hope you were able to attend the Village of Webster’s Winter Wonderland celebration and Parade of Lights on Saturday. It was grey, but not TOO cold, and the village was beautiful. It was a great kick-off to a holiday season in Webster that’s packed with lots more special events.

Here’s a quick look at what’s in store for these last few weeks before Christmas. (And by the way, there are only the ones I know about. If you have anything else you’d like me to put in my blog, let me know.)

The Women’s Club of Webster‘s very popular annual Holiday Cookie Sale is scheduled this year for Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd. Cost for cookies is $10 per pound (cash only!). They usually sell out very quickly, so get there early. Proceeds from the sale, which is eagerly awaited by area cookie lovers, will benefit the club’s scholarship funds as well as many other programs in the Webster community.

Help the Webster Arboretum decorate their Christmas tree on Tuesday, Dec. 9, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.

The tree has been installed in the large gazebo behind the Curry building. Now the community is being asked to gather and decorate it! Work with your family to create ornaments, then stop by and place them on the tree. (Please no food or seed decorations.) The Arboretum is located at 1700 Schlegel Rd.

And remember to get your copy of the Arboretum’s 2026 calendar, which they’re introducing for the first time this year. It features stunning photos of the Arboretum throughout the seasons. All proceeds will go directly to maintain the Webster Arboretum. They’re available for $24, and can be purchased online on the Arboretum’s website and at Lala of Webster in the village.

The Webster Village Band, directed by Andy Kittelson, will be performing their annual Holiday Concert on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. at Webster Schroeder High School, 875 Ridge Rd. This year’s program includes favorites such as “Mary, Did You Know,” “The Polar Express,” and “The Eighth Candle.” Per tradition, the band will also perform “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” narrated by Barbara Midura. 

The concert is free and no reservations are needed. Refreshments will be served after the concert.

The Webster Recreation Center will host their annual Afternoon with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 1 to 3 p.m. It features pictures with Santa, music, dancing and cookies. The event is free, everyone is welcome and no registration is required.

And don’t forget that the kids can drop off their letters to Santa at the Rec Center between Dec. 10 and Dec. 19. Santa will personally answer each one, and the kids can pick up their responses between Dec. 22 and 24.

The Webster Recreation Center is located at 1350 Chiyoda Drive, just off of Phillips Rd.

The Chorus of the Genesee will hold this year’s Soup and Caroling Night on Tuesday Dec. 23, beginning at 7 p.m. Carolers will start at the Harmony House and walk through the village, stopping to sing at several homes and businesses, then return to the Harmony House for a delicious variety of soups. The bar will be open (cash only, please) for those who want something a little stronger.

No registration is necessary. Just show up and bring your singing voice. Santa hats and sleigh bells are encouraged.

The Webster Public Library’s Holiday Book Sale continues through Dec. 27, located in front of the lobby book store. It features an assortment of used books, videos, music CDs, audio books and jigsaw puzzles all with seasonal holiday themes, while supplies last.

Also at the library, enjoy a travelogue all about the Von Trapp Family Christmas on Tuesday, Dec. 16 from 6 to 7 p.m. Did you know that the real von Trapp family (immortalized in the movie The Sound of Music) moved from Austria to Vermont? George and Carol Vorhauer took a motor coach tour to the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort and will share what they learned about the von Trapp family and their 2,600-acre property in Stowe, Vermont. Holiday refreshments will be served. 

There’s no cost, but registration is required.

The Webster Museum‘s Festival of Trees is still going on. Twenty miniature Christmas trees have been placed throughout the museum, which various Webster businesses and non-profit organizations have decorated. Community members are invited to stroll through the museum, examine all of the beautifully decorated trees, and vote for their favorite one.

The Festival of Trees runs through the end of the year, and is a highlight of the museum’s Christmas-time celebrations. The museum is also selling Kittelberger Flower Cards again this year, good for 12 months of flowers from Kittelberger Florist. They’ll be available through Dec. 12.

The museum is located at 18 Lapham Park in the village and is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

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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 12/8/2025)

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Friends of the Library say thank you to their volunteers

20 Nov

Community organizations depend on dedicated volunteers to carry out their mission. But in larger groups with many moving parts, volunteers often focus on their own projects and may never cross paths with others working in different areas.

The Friends of the Webster Public Library (FWPL) recognize that, so they make sure that at least twice a year they hold special events to bring all of their volunteers together for an hour of friendship, socialization, laughter and lots and lots of good food.

Every May this meeting/social event takes the form of a potluck lunch, with a dozen or more delectable dishes lined up along tables in the library’s community room. Every November, it’s a dessert reception; last Saturday, those tables were filled with cheesecakes, shortbreads, cookies, chocolate candies, even a cherry trifle. The event drew almost 50 volunteers from across the FWPL organization, men and women who volunteer at the book sales, in the lobby book store, manage publicity, serve on the board and more. And each one went home with a little gift to say thank you for their time and commitment.

Winanne Messing
Eileen Brookins

Two of those volunteers received special recognition: Eileen Brookins and Winanne Messing. For many years, Winanne and Eileen were head of publicity for book sales and various other fundraisers, and they both served on the Friends’ Board of Directors before stepping down two years ago. Appropriately, each received a book inscribed with an individualized dedication recognizing their service. Once Winanne and Eileen have had a chance to read them, the books will become part of the library’s permanent collection.

And talking about the Book Sale …

These social events double as FWPL meetings, and at this last gathering, some pretty amazing details about this year’s book sales were reported.

The final figure from the most recent Fall Book Sale was an incredible $8,191.98 (including a portion of the proceeds from 70 Kittelberger flower cards sold during the sale). It’s been several years since the Friends topped the $8,000 mark, so that is a great accomplishment. The vintage book sales earned almost $3,200 on top of that this year as well. Those impressive figures can be attributed to all the donors, volunteers, shoppers and the incredible support of the Webster Community as a whole.

And did you know? Whatever books the Friends don’t sell are donated to Savers. They come down to the library, box them up and send them all over the country to other Savers locations to benefit other communities.

The Friends of the Webster Public Library are library supporters who are committed to strengthening the library and helping it provide the best service possible to the community. All of the funds they raise go directly to promote and support the Webster Public Library, its services, facilities, programs and needs. Click here to find out more about the organization and how you can become a member.

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

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

(posted 11/20/2025)

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Webster Public Library hosts youth author Colleen AF Venable

14 Nov

Hey, everyone, call your kids over to the screen, because they’re going to want to see this.

On Friday, Dec. 12, the Webster Public Library will host bestselling author Colleen AF Venable for a talk and book signing.

Your kids are probably familiar with Venable’s Katie the Catsitter graphic novel series about friendship, superheroes –and lots and lots of cats. Illustrated by Stephanie Yue, the series was nominated for 14 state awards. Venable’s Kiss Number 8 was longlisted for the 2019 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature.

Venable will sign books following her presentation and Q&A session. Each registered child or teen in attendance will receive a free book for her to sign, and Rochester-based bookseller Hipocampo Children’s Books will be on site with three of Venable’s books for purchase.

The event will be held at the Webster Recreation Center on Friday, Dec. 12 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. There’s no charge, but registration is required.

Each person planning to attend must register. To register, click here or call 585-872-7075. To ensure they have enough books for all children and teens in attendance, please indicate whether you’re registering an adult (ages 18+), a teen (ages 13-17), or a child (ages 0-12). The event is expected to be very popular, so if you register but are then unable to attend, please notify the library by calling 585-872-7075.

This author event is brought to you by Webster Public Library, Penfield Public Library, and East Rochester Public Library and sponsored by Senator Samra Brouk, Friends & Foundation of the Rochester Public Library, and Friends of Webster Public Library.

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

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

(posted 11/14/2025)

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Need help? Food and clothing assistance is available

31 Oct

You’ve all probably been hearing about the temporary (we hope) suspension of SNAP subsidies due to the government shutdown. SNAP funds are provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to low-income individuals and families to help them afford nutritious food.

That eventuality may not directly affect you and your family, and count your blessings if it does not. But but if that fund does run and lapses on Nov. 1 (and at this writing that looks likely), it will most definitely affect many of your Webster neighbors. According to the Federal Education Department, in the 2023-24 school year, 5 percent of households in the Webster school district – that’s 1,300 households – were eligible for SNAP and stand to lose those benefits.

But there is help. If you or someone you know will be struggling in the coming weeks to provide enough food and clothing for themselves and their families, here’s a list of places you can go to get assistance:

Food assistance

  • Lasagna Love — request a lasagna and a volunteer will deliver it. Click link to request.
  • Meals on Wheels — hot meal delivery for Monroe County seniors and pet food for current recipients. Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 585-787-8397.
  • Phillips Village Food Pantry — 100 Krieger Rd., Webster. Self-serve, accessible outside 24/7 (only for Phillips Village residents). Located near main office.
  • St. Martin Food Pantry — 813 Bay Rd., Webster. Self-serve, accessible outside 24/7. Call 585-671-1899, or email stmartinwebster@gmail.com.
  • COME Dinners — Community dinners hosted at Webster churches. Contact Wendy McVeigh for schedule. 585-265-9720 or wmcveigh@gmcwebster.org.
  • Foodlink Curbside Markets — Purchase food at a discount from mobile food stand. Click the link for schedule or call 585-328-3380.

Food and clothing assistance … and more

  • Webster Hope — 1450 Ridge Rd., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items, household items, emergency financial assistance. Click link for hours, call 585-265-6694 or email websternyhope@gmail.com.

Assistance for Webster students

  • Elementary Schools — Free/reduced lunches, WCSD and Immanuel Lutheran Church’s backpack weekend food program. Contact your school’s main office or apply through websterschools.org.
  • Schroeder High School — 875 Ridge Rd., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact kelly_petzing@webstercsd.org or call 585-670-8083.
  • Spry Middle School — 119 South Ave., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact meghann_piwko@webstercsd.org or call 585-285-6500.
  • Thomas High School — 800 Five Mile Line Rd., Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact joan_bardanis@webstercsd.org or call 585-670-8000.
  • Willink Middle School — 900 Publishers Parkway, Webster. Food and clothing assistance, hygiene items. Contact mary_hurley@webstercsd.org or call 585-670-1044.

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(posted 10/31/2025)

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