Kitchen philosophy

17 Sep

fridgeI have a very messy fridge (at left), and I always have. Like many families, the front of our refrigerator is our communication center and a vital tool for reminding me of appointments, generally keeping our lives in order. It always boggles my mind when I go into someone else’s house and see that their fridge is completely bare. I would be rudderless.

I was thinking about that the other day. I was staring at the fridge as my coffee was cooking, and was reminded about a blog I wrote back in October of 2008, on the eve of the 2008 election. Then, as now, I titled it “Kitchen philosophy,” and it read like this:

You know, you can tell a lot about a person by looking at her refrigerator.

Take mine, for example. A close inspection of the schedules, fliers, magnets, white board notes and calendar dates jostling for space on my fridge will tell you these things about my family:

  • we’re Buffalo Bills fans
  • at least one of us works for the YMCA
  • the kids get good grades and are musically talented
  • we’re involved in our church
  • we shop at Aldi and Tops
  • we’re blood donors
  • we watch WXXI
  • we’re into martial arts
  • someone attends Nazareth College
  • we care about the environment

The fact that there are three calendars on our fridge would also indicate that despite all these activities (and the chaotic appearance of the fridge), we’re pretty organized about everything and are keeping on top of life pretty well.

Now, that’s an amazing amount of information gleaned from one small part of a person’s life. And if you think about it, that’s a heck of a lot more than we know about either of the two presidential candidates or their VP picks, people we’re going to be trusting with running our country and helping our families maintain the status quo.

So what about this … how about we ask each of the four candidates to take a picture of their refrigerators and publish them in the New York Times. Those simple photos could tell us more about their character than any stump speech or debate ever could.

A lot has changed in my life since that fridge from 11 years ago. I no longer have any children at home, for example, which changes things a LOT. I also have an entirely new house — and new fridge.

So I thought it would be fun to do this again. Here’s what I gleaned from my current messy fridge:

  • My kids are grown, but I’m still proud of them. Their photo holds a prominent spot
  • We still shop at Aldi, and even tough I’m not a Tops shopper anymore, I still hold a soft spot in my heart for them — my Wegmans shopping list still says “Tops”
  • My daughter is getting married.
  • I like live theater
  • I shop at Kohl’s
  • I like pizza!
  • I’m into cycling, and am still involved in martial arts
  • We’re still going to the same dentist
  • I work in the Webster schools.

A lot of things are different. But so much stays the same.

What does your fridge say about you?

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If you do nothing else today…

14 Sep

…make sure you AT LEAST get out to the Rochester Garlic Festival. Because it’s downright amazing.

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It’s taking place at the Webster Recreation Center on Chiyoda Drive until 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. And it’s a must-see festival.

I spent some time there this afternoon and came away extremely impressed by the number of vendors (garlic and non-garlic), the quality of the entertainment, variety of kids’ activities and food trucks. Vendors are spread throughout the Rec Center’s gymnasium and outside under tents, and there’s are separate rooms inside for the cooking demonstrations and several tasting stations.

Parking was not a problem, either. If there’s not room in the lot immediately in front of the Rec Center (and it was crowded), you can park across the street and walk, or take a shuttle bus. Our town’s wonderful Special Police are there to help.

All of this amazingness costs just $5 admission, and children under 12 are free. And all proceeds benefit Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester, a fully-accessible sports facility which we are fortunate to have right here in Webster.

So if you didn’t have a chance to go today, carve out a few hours tomorrow, and bring the kids. You won’t regret it.

For more details about the vendors and entertainment lineup (including State Line and the Zach Brown Tribute Band), visit the Rochester Garlic Festival website here.

You can also see a lot more photos from the event here.

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Weekend reminders and 9/11 photos

12 Sep

garlic fest logo

A couple of reminders about a few events coming up this weekend you won’t want to miss.

The first is the return of the Webster Garlic Festival — now called the Rochester Garlic Festival — on Saturday and Sunday at the Webster Recreation Center.

This is a great family-friendly event with a lot of entertainment, food, vendors and, of course, garlic. But you don’t have to like garlic to enjoy the festival, because most of the vendors are non-garlic ones.

Click here to read a column I wrote about the festival for more details, or visit their website here.

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quilt shoppe logo

This Friday and Saturday, make sure to pop into the Village Quilt Shoppe at 21 E. Main Street in the Webster, as this brand new business celebrates its grand opening.

Owners Monique Liberti and Vanetta Parshall opened their new shop in August and have already been warmly welcomed to the village by seamstresses who love having a convenient local source for quality fabrics and notions.

The grand opening is scheduled for Friday and Saturday Sept. 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with food, door prizes, gifts for everyone and scissor sharpening on Saturday.

Whether you’re a quilter or not, why not stop in and say hi.

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Last night’s Village of Webster 9/11 remembrance ceremony was a very nice affair once again. The approximately hour-long ceremony was well represented by first responders and local and regional politicians. The speeches were quite moving, and the late-summer temperatures very comfortable.

This year’s musical selections were presented by the Webster Village Band, which was a change from past ceremonies, at which the Chorus of the Genesee performed. The band did a nice job, but I was disappointed to not see some of my Chorus friends and hear their sweet harmonies.

The attendance by community members was also rather disappointing, numbering about 65. There were more musicians and official ceremony participants than there were audience members. And aside from a few little girls who had come with their firefighter father, I didn’t see any young children.

That’s too bad. I think it’s important that the younger generation know about and learn about what happened on 9/11/2001. No matter that the world it created is the only one they will ever know. They need to hear about the thousands who died, the heroic first responders, and to see how our country persevered, and became stronger.

They need to never forget, too.

Click here to see more photos.

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Little town. BIG garage sale.

9 Sep

This event is a little far afield, but I think it’s something everyone on this side of town will want to know about.

cheap thrills

It’s Pultneyville’s 30th annual Community Garage Sale, scheduled this year for Saturday, Sept 21, from 9 am. to 4 p.m., rain or shine.

This huge event is sponsored by and benefits the Williamsville-Pultneyville Historical Society. On their website, they describe it as

a large flea market in Centennial Park in the center of Pultneyville. Homeowners support the event by having garage sales at their homes. Homemade pies and coffee are sold at the Society during the day and food vendors are available.

It sounds like a don’t-miss event for anyone who enjoys a good garage sale. Centennial Park is located at Lake Ave. and Hamilton St. For more information or to become a vendor, visit http://www.w-phs.org.

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Village remembers 9/11

8 Sep

firefighters2

One of the most solemn anniversaries in our nation’s history comes around again this week. The two simple words by which we all know it belie the horror of the day: 9/11.

The Village of Webster always does a very nice job commemorating the occasion, with a ceremony held at the gazebo at Veterans Memorial Park on North Ave.

Scheduled for Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., the event usually lasts around 45 or 50 minutes, and includes first responders and local and regional political representatives who offer some comments. The Chorus of the Genesee also participates, performing some patriotic tunes.

Members of the Webster Fire Department are planning to congregate at the station on South Ave. at around 6:15 and march as a group to the ceremony. You won’t want to miss that.

 

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Webster Central PTSA marks 60 years

6 Sep

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Now that the new school year has begun, it’s time to give a big shout-out to our school PTSA organizations. They’ve already begun to work overtime, coming up with creative ways to welcome kids back to school, introducing new staff members, organizing spirit wear sales, and managing a thousand other details that characterize the first days and weeks of school.

Here in Webster, our PTSA is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, so they’ve come up with some extra special prizes to encourage students, parents, grandparents, district residents, even non-district residents to join the cause.

Here are the details:

  • Join by Sept. 15 and be entered into a drawing to win four tickets to a Knighthawks game, and four tickets to an Amerks game — plus their yearbook and a hockey stick.
  • Join by Oct. 1 to win a $100 gift card to Pub 235 and four tickets to Webster Theatre Guild’s October production of The Addams Family.
  • Join by Nov. 1 to win a one-year family membership to the Webster Aquatic Center.
  • Enter by Dec. 1 to win a one-year family membership to the Bay View Family YMCA.

Plus, all year long, members enjoy discounts at Salvatore’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, The Waffle Factory, Color Me Mine, Bruegger’s Bagels, and more.

PTSA membership is only $10 for adults and $5 for students. No volunteering or meetings are required, and every penny goes to support our students and staff members.

Our PTSA leadership team has set an optimistic goal of 1,500 members this year to help celebrate the 60th anniversary. Please consider being one of them.

For more information and an on-line link to join, click here.

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Mark your calendars for these village events

4 Sep

Hot on the heels of a very busy and very entertaining summer activities schedule, the Village of Webster has announced its next round of events.

Beer Walk

Coming up on Saturday Sept. 14 is the next Beer Walk, sponsored by the Coach Sports Bar. From 4 to 7 p.m. you can stop into several bars and restaurants in town and sample a variety of brews.  Word on the street is that JoJo’s Bistro and Wine Bar will be open in beer mugtime to participate, so you’re definitely going to want to check that out.

The walk will begin at the Coach on West Main St. Tickets are $12 and are available online here. Check there also for more details, including which venues will be participating in the walk.

Trick or Treat Trail

The 2019 Village of Webster Trick or Treat Trail takes place Saturday Oct. 26, beginning with a costume contest at 11, followed by the trail through the village from noon to 3 p.m. Stay tuned here for more details as that date approaches.

Bourbon Bash

Bourbon lovers are not forgotten. The next Bourbon Bash will be held on Saturday Nov. 16 at the Harmony House, from 6 to 9 p.m. Local and regional distillers will be on hand for you to taste their finest bourbons and whiskeys along with food sampling from the local restaurants. Tickets will be available in October for that event.

White Christmas in the Village

santaCapping off the year is one of my favorite village festivals, White Christmas in the Village. This year it is scheduled for Saturday Dec. 7 from 3 to 6 p.m., followed — of course — by the very popular Electric Parade at 6:30. More details to come about that event as well.

For more information about these events, visit www.websterbid.com

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Webster community mailbag

3 Sep

Drumming your way to good health

This looks really cool.

Folks at the Webster Public Library are introducing their new health and wellness series with a very interesting event.

Two african Djembe Drum on white background.Two Herons Drum Circle from Geneva will visit the library on Saturday Sept. 14 to present — well, a drum circle — from 3 to 4 p.m.

What the heck is a drum circle, you may ask. I did too, so I checked Two Herons’ Facebook page, where they describe a drum circle as a “unique, interactive community drumming experience.”

They go on to say that regular participation in drumming classes,

Reduces tension, anxiety and stress; Helps control chronic pain; Boosts the immune system; Creates a sense of connectedness with self and others; Helps us experience being in resonance with the natural rhythms of life; Releases negative feelings, blockages and emotional trauma; (and) Provides a medium for individual self-realization.

Okay. In any case, it sounds like a lot of fun.

The program is designed for adults and teens. Drums and other percussion equipment will be provided or you can bring your own. Registration is required at www.websterlibrary.org 

You’ll also want to check the library’s website for some other really neat programs they’ve got planned this month, including

  • A do-it-yourself Marbled Coaster Tiles craft project for teens and adults on Monday Sept. 16
  • A Love Your Library celebration in honor of National Library Card Sign-up Month with snacks, games, crafts, and a photo booth on Saturday Sept. 21.

Plus, the library is collecting new and gently used coats through October 6, which will be distributed at the Project Homeless Connect Rochester event, being held at the Blue Cross Arena on October 15.

Find out more details about all these upcoming Webster Public Library events on their website.

An update from the Village Quilt Shoppe

The Village Quilt Shoppe has settled in quite nicely at 21 East Main St. and is gearing up for its grand opening in just a few weeks.

It’s scheduled for Sept. 13 and 14, and owners Monique and Vanetta promise a “great party” with food, raffles and much more. Stay tuned for more details about that.quilt shoppe logo

In the meantime, Monique and Vanetta have all sorts of special events in the works, including their Embroidery Block of the month series beginning in September, and a bird cage quilt or table runner class. 

The first weekend of every month the shop will host a “Weekend Retreat” with a different project every month, and the monthly “Sunday Embroidery Tea” gives quilters a chance to learn new stitches and perfect those you already use. The second Saturday of the month is “Quilters Anonymous Night,” and “Open Sew Friday” is another chance to gather with friends old and new to work on your projects. 

Check the Village Quilt Shoppe calendar regularly to stay on top of all their classes and special events.

Electronics recycling opportunity

Got some old unused or broken electronics kicking around your garage that you don’t know what to do with? 

Take them over to the Electronics Recycling Event on Saturday Sept. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon at Xerox (take Phillips Rd. to Caracas Dr.).

Items which can be accepted include:

  • computers and accessories
  • TVs and monitors (limit of two per vehicle)
  • electronicstelephones and answering machines
  • microwaves
  • IT storage devices, cables and accessories
  • printers, scanners and accessories
  • gaming devices
  • routers and servers
  • office copiers and fax machines
  • stereo, video and audio equipment
  • other small electronics such as mobile devices
  • most small home appliances (no freon)

For a complete list of acceptable items, click here.

Eating good in the neighborhood

Breakfast and dinner are on the menu on Saturday Sept. 21.

If you really don’t feel much like cooking breakfast that morning, you can hop on over to the First Baptist Church of Penfield for their first Flapjack Saturday Fundraiser of the season.

From 8 to 10 a.m., enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast of pancakes, maple syrup, scrambled eggs, sausage, and more for just $6 per person. All proceeds will benefit Penfield Hope, an agency which offers emergency financial assistance, non-perishable food, diapers, children’s clothing, and more to Penfield neighbors in need.

The First Baptist Church of Penfield is located at 1862 Penfield Rd., at the four corners.

That evening, let St. Martin Lutheran Church, 813 Bay Rd. in Webster, make dinner for you at their fall BBQ and FunFest.

From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. you can get a half chicken, salt potatoes, cole slaw, roll, butter and beverage for $10 per person. Pie slices and other desserts will also be available for purchase. A hot dog dinner for kids is $2. Kids will also enjoy a bounce house, face painting and balloons.

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Thoughts on the First Responders 5K

2 Sep
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(Photo courtesy Mary White)

An amazing 625 people — both adults and children — participated in the second annual First Responders 5K on Friday night, which began on Sanford Street near Firemen’s Field and wound through the east side of Webster village.  It’s an impressive number considering it was the start of Labor Day weekend AND it was a Friday night, two very good reasons that race participants might have had other things to do or places to be.

But again this year, Webster and our surrounding communities showed how incredibly

holly and me

Before the race with my friend Holly. (Courtesy Mary White)

supportive they are of our first responders. And not only did the race attract a lot of runners, but the number of village residents who took the time to sit out front of their homes and cheer the runners as we raced by was heartening and very much appreciated.

Kudos to all of the firefighters and police officers who ran in their full gear; the weather was much improved over last year’s heat and humidity, but it must have still been a struggle to complete the 3.1-mile course while wearing many pounds of gear.

I took a few pictures, but not as many as our favorite Turkey Trot photographer Mary White. I’ve posted a few here, but if you’d like to see a lot more, click this link for an entire gallery.

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An invitation for park lovers

30 Aug

I’d like to extend an invitation today to anyone who loves — and appreciates — our Village of Webster parks.

tree marker

Expanding the village’s tree marker program is one goal of the Village Board’s Parks and Recreation Committee. 

First, a little background. Only a month or so after I became a new village resident, I was approached and asked if I would like to join the Village of Webster Parks and Recreation Committee. Apparently, the new village bike racks which I’ve been pushing for also fall under the purview of the Parks and Rec Committee. Since I seemed so invested in that issue, joining the committee itself seemed a natural next step.

I figured I should try to get more involved in my new hometown, so I accepted the appointment. Now I’d like to invite others to join the committee as well.

Many village residents are surprised to learn that our little village actually has FIVE different parks within its boundaries:

  • Harmony Park on Phillips Rd., which features the Village Band bandshell
  • Veterans Memorial Park on North Ave. with the gazebo
  • Wilmorite Park on Iroquois St., with a playground, picnic table and basketball court
  • Schantz Park on State Rd., with tennis courts, a rock wall and playground
  • Milton Case Park, behind Spry Middle School, with 14 acres of woods and several trails.

One of the primary goals of our committee is to bring more awareness to these natural resources. We’ll also work to see that they are maintained and — hopefully — improved, and encourage development of new parks. To that end, at our most recent meeting, we discussed tentative plans for

  • a “discover your parks” scavenger hunt
  • creating a survey about park usage
  • distributing an informational brochure describing the parks
  • updating and expanding the tree marker program
  • visiting each park to inventory their condition, and more.

Thing is, counting me, there are only two people on the committee right now. We could use two or three more to help us implement all of our great ideas, and come up with new ones.

We meet once a month, on the fourth Thursday at 7 p.m. in the community meeting room at Village Hall. Our last two meetings have lasted less than 45 minutes, so it’s not a huge time commitment.

If you’re interested at all, or would like to find out more information, please email me at missyblog@gmail.com and I’ll be happy to answer any of your questions.

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

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