So much cool stuff happening at the Rec

5 Aug

O boy o boy o boy o boy o boy!

I just got my hands on the Webster Recreation Center’s fall program guide and was instantly reminded about all the neat stuff they schedule for late summer into the winter months.

I’m not just talking about all of the great recreation programs and fitness classes and stuff like that which we all (who are lucky enough to be members) already know about. It’s all the really fun and entertaining community-wide special events that I get excited about.

Like the annual Mud Run, which the program guide tells me is scheduled for Saturday Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a really wet, really muddy, incredibly fun family obstacle course run which the Rec Center sets up along the Chiyoda Trail around the back of the building. It’s an easy 1/2-mile long trail, and the whole event is non-competitive and un-timed, so it’s perfect for kids even as young as 5.

Registration is only $5, and sign up is going on now. Register for program #301202 and choose a time slot between 10 a.m. and noon.

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Then there’s the Pumpkins on Parade, which is one of my favorite events of the entire year.

This is a super fun family event where participants stroll along the mile-long Chiyoda Trail, which is lined with hundreds of creatively carved, humorous, scary and downright weird jack-o-lanterns. At the end of the path, there’s free cider and donuts and a bonfire, a family photo area, and for the kids, a hay maze and roller slide. And it’s ALL FREE.

This year’s parade will be on Saturday Oct. 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. No registration is necessary for this, so just make sure to put it on your calendar now. Plus, start thinking about how you might want to design your own Jack-o-lanterns for the event, because the Rec Center always needs a LOT of pumpkins!

And here’s something else you want to get on your calendar now: Santa will be visiting the Rec Center on Saturday Dec. 14 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Kids can visit with Santa, have their photo taken with Santa, and enjoy cookies and story time. Kids can also bring their letters to Santa, drop them in his personal mailbox, and can pick up his response on Friday Dec. 20.

The Afternoon with Santa event is free and no registration is required.

Stay tuned for more details about each of these events as they draw nearer.

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(posted 8/5/2024)

Webster community mailbag

4 Aug

My own 50th high school class reunion is coming up in a few years, so this email that came my way recently piqued my interest.

The Webster Thomas/Schroeder class of 1975 will be holding their 50th class reunion on July 26, 2025. Plans are already in motion, but right now organizers are really focused on trying to contact as many former classmates as they can. They’re looking for emails for all of the students from the Class of ’75 from Webster Thomas and Schroeder, so they can keep everyone informed about the latest updates.

To get on their email list, send a message to Cheryl Manetta DiFrancesco at Rdrufus15@gmail.com or Bert Lieberman at Bertl@nicholsteam.com. Also, make sure to bookmark the group’s Facebook page, Webster Thomas/Schroeder Class of ‘75 – 50th Class Reunion.

Got old bikes?

R Community Bikes will be holding a bike donation event from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday Aug. 10 at the Webster-Fairport Elks Lodge, 1066 Jackson Rd.

This incredible organization, based on Hudson Ave. in the City of Rochester, accepts any and all types of bikes, both children’s and adult, regardless of condition. They also gladly accept bike parts, tools and other cycling items such as bells, locks, lights, baskets, bags, trailers, and car racks (but not helmets or cycling shoes). Bikes with special value will be evaluated and possibly sold, with the proceeds going directly back into the program to purchase parts, supplies and tools. Receipts are available upon request.

R Community Bikes is a grassroots organization, staffed entirely by volunteers, that collects and repairs used bicycles for distribution, free of charge, to the Rochester, NY area’s children and adults. They give away over 2,000 bicycles every year and do over 3,000 repairs for their clients, many of whom depend on bicycles as their main source of transportation. In addition, they provide bicycles or repair services to dozens of community organizations, including church groups, youth centers, and neighborhood associations.

Rec Center at the Red Wings

If you haven’t gotten your fill of Rochester Red Wings games this season, here’s a good opportunity to do so, at a great price.

On Friday Aug. 16, the Webster Recreation Center will be partnering with the Red Wings to host a Webster Community Night. The focus will be on our community that evening; Supervisor Tim Flaherty will be throwing out the first pitch, and Webster-based musician Sarah De Vallière is singing the national anthem.

The game starts at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are only $10; you can use the QR code on the flyer, or click here.

Webster Union Cemetery turns 200

Here’s a reminder about a great opportunity to learn more about Webster history by actually speaking to some of its earliest settlers. (Well, not really. But we can pretend.)

On Saturday Aug. 17 From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Webster Union Cemetery will celebrate its 200th anniversary. Visitors are invited to stroll Webster Union Cemetery’s beautiful grounds and chat with some of the people who founded our town. Talk to a suffragette fighting for women’s right to vote, a 1918 Spanish flu victim, Civil War soldiers, shopkeepers, boardinghouse owners, and even a Revolutionary War spy. You’ll also have a chance to learn headstone cleaning and preservation.

The celebration will take place Saturday Aug. 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Webster Union Cemetery, 345 Webster Rd. (corner of Rt. 250 and Woodhull). Admission is free.

Read more about this important celebration in this blog.

Free rabies clinic

On Wednesday Aug. 21, from 5 to 7 p.m., the Town of Webster is partnering with Monroe County Department of Public Health to host a free rabies vaccination clinic at the Webster Highway Department, 1005 Picture Parkway.

All dogs in the Town of Webster are required to be licensed with proof of a current rabies vaccination.

Support the Marching Band. Eat good food

The Webster Marching Band will host a Food Truck Rodeo on Thursday Aug. 22 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Fireman’s Field, 172 Sanford St.

The band promises at least 13 food trucks and vendors, more than 30 draft vendors, a kids’ play place ($10 per child), free face painting, vendor raffles and a 50/50 drawing. The band will also be offering a preview of their 2024 show, “Death of a Star,” with performances at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce Breakfast is Aug. 23

The Webster Chamber of Commerce’s next monthly Breakfast Before Business Meeting, is Friday Aug. 23 from 7 to 8:30 a.m. 

There’s a new location! For as long as I have been attending them, they’ve been held at the Webster Chamber of Commerce. But beginning this month, the meetings will be held at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Chamber staff and members at the door. Beverages will be ready to enjoy during networking time. At 7:30 a.m., the breakfast buffet is served, which you’ll enjoy while getting to know other Chamber visitors and members seated at your table. After breakfast, every attendee will get a chance to introduce themselves at pass-the-mic time, and door prizes will also be awarded. Donate a door prize and you’ll get even more recognition for your business or organization.

These events are open to the public as well as Chamber members. Cost is $19 and reservations are required. Click here to do so.

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

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(posted 8/4/2024)

The Auction House named July Historic Site of the Month

3 Aug

As we walk or drive through the Village of Webster, we often — well, usually — fail to notice and appreciate the history that surrounds us.

The Village of Webster’s Historic Preservation Commission has made it their goal to shine a spotlight on some of these historical treasures. One way they’re doing that is with their recognition of Historic Sites of the Month, honoring a property’s historical significance and its enduring role in our community’s evolution. In July, that distinction was awarded to The Auction House at 150 Orchard St.

Here’s some background about this historic building (pulled from the Historic Preservation Commission’s Facebook page):

Early Beginnings: From Lumberyard to Taylor Rental Center

The history of The Auction House begins over a century ago when it first operated as a lumberyard. This early incarnation laid the foundation for its later transformations, serving the local community’s needs through different eras.

In the late 1960s, Gabler’s Decorating Center operated at 150 Orchard St., becoming a popular destination for home goods. Originally selling fabric for drapes, wallpaper, and similar products, they opened a fashion department in 1970, selling dress patterns and fashion fabrics.

In November 1971, Ralph Henty opened a Taylor Rental Center at this location. Recognizing the growing trend of renting rather than owning, Henty’s center offered over 12,000 items for rent, ranging from champagne fountains to road rollers, tools, exercise equipment, and more. This became part of a network of more than 175 Taylor Rental Centers nationwide, reflecting the increasing mobility and practical needs of the modern consumer.

The New Look and Webster Tool & Die, Inc. also operated at 150 Orchard St. during the 1970s at different points during the decade.

1980s-1990s: A Hub of Business and Community Activities

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, 150 Orchard Street continued to serve as a central hub for various community and business activities. The Taylor Rental Center remained a fixture, adapting to the times by expanding its inventory and services. In 1993, Dave Bardusch of C.E. Bardusch and Son, Inc., took ownership of the center. Bardusch brought fresh energy and competitive pricing to the business, ensuring its continued relevance and success.

The property also played host to several community events and smaller businesses. It was a place where local residents could rent everything from camping gear to party supplies, making it an essential part of daily life in Webster.

2000s: The Birth of Ann & Co. Auction Gallery

On July 7, 2000, Ann Marszalek opened Ann & Co. Auction Gallery at 150 Orchard Street. This 8,000-square foot space, once a lumberyard, was transformed into a vibrant auction gallery. Marszalek, an accredited appraiser and licensed auctioneer, brought her expertise and passion for antiques and collectibles to the gallery. The venue featured regular auctions, a 1950s style café, parking for 200 cars, and storage facilities, attracting a diverse clientele and becoming a beloved local institution.

Marszalek’s involvement in high-profile events like the “Antiques Road Show” in Rochester underscored the gallery’s reputation and her professional acumen. The gallery became a place where history and commerce intertwined, offering a unique service to the community.

Present and Future: A Dynamic Business Hub

Today, The Auction House continues to be a dynamic business hub, housing a variety of enterprises. The historic building is owned by Ryan Ricketts and Kim Cimino, operators of A Cleaner Image, which offers a wide-range of residential and commercial cleaning services. Sorella Salon Suites, owned by Dana and Nikki Sorella also operates on the first floor. The historical significance of the space and adaptive reuse have made it a model of preservation and innovation. Future plans include the development of lofts and additional office space, ensuring that the property will continue to evolve and serve the community in new and exciting ways.

A Unique Story of Community and Commerce

The story of The Auction House at 150 Orchard Street is a testament to Webster’s resilience and adaptability. From its early days as a lumberyard to its current status as a thriving business hub, the property has continually evolved to meet the community’s needs. Each transformation has added a new layer to its rich history, making it an important landmark in Webster.

Click here to find out more about the Village of Webster Historic Preservation Commission.

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

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(posted 8/3/2024)

Village of Webster introduces new online newsletter

2 Aug

At long last, the Village of Webster has begun to publish a beautiful new online newsletter.

I say “at long last” because I’ve been waiting for this day ever since Karen Buck joined the Village of Webster administration team last November as Deputy Clerk. She had previously worked at the Town of Webster, where one of her responsibilities was to create a weekly newsletter.

Even I (whom everyone thinks is on top or EVERYTHING all the time) was able to pull a lot of great news and event items from that newsletter. So when Karen started working at the Village offices, I started looking forward to having her use her magic to do a similar publication for the Village.

And now we have it. The first Village of Webster newsletter, called View From Main Street, was published earlier this week. As expected, it’s packed with an incredible amount of useful information, including:

  • tips about the Village’s brush pick-up services
  • Village department updates
  • highlights from the ongoing Reimagine Webster project
  • the latest news from the Historic Preservation Commission
  • the Webster Jazz Festival schedule
  • passport processing tips
  • an upcoming pharmaceutical collection event

You can check out the whole newsletter here and check back at the Village of Webster website every two weeks for the latest edition.

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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 8/2/2024)

WPL BookBox program expands to Country Manor

1 Aug

Every summer for the last 11 years, the Webster Public Library (WPL) has given young readers at Phillips Village the opportunity to check out library books, just steps from their front doors, without even having a library card.

Called the “BookBox” program, it’s kind of like a bookmobile, without the “mobile.” Every Thursday during the summer months, WPL staff members and volunteers stuff several milk crates with books for all ages, and take them on the road to children who might not otherwise have easy access to a library.

The Phillips Village BookBox program has been so successful that this summer the library has expanded it to a second location, Country Manor Apartments on Phillips Rd.

Webster Public Library Outreach Coordinator Jason Poole explains the reasoning behind the BookBoxes;

We started BookBox in 2014 when we discovered during a school visit that the children who lived in Phillips Village had limited access to the library’s resources because of the distance the apartment complex is from the library and the lack of safe options to get themselves there. Many do not speak English as a first language. Many come from families with two working parents who are not able to transport them. So instead of them coming to us, we decided to go to them.

Now that commitment, which began years ago, has been extended to the children of Country Manor.

Every Wednesday afternoon at Country Manor and Thursday afternoon at Phillips Village (in good weather), Jason and his helpers place signs throughout the apartment complexes, set up a tent and and a table, and spread the books out for ease of choice. Each book has a due-date card tucked inside for the child to sign. They can return the book the following week or hold it for longer; there’s no cost to the children, no due dates or overdue fees, and it’s all done without needing a library card.

Jason chooses most of the books — all age-appropriate and brand-new or almost brand-new — from community donations collected by the Friends of the Public Library, who also provide volunteers for the weekly programs.

The program’s not just about the books, though. It’s also a chance for kids to come outside, play with their friends and have a healthy snack, courtesy gift cards donated by Wegmans.

“We give out apples and juice boxes … and kids often stay and play kickball or Frisbee or jump rope or hula hoop,” Jason said. “We bring a bag full of balls and games … and for the last three years, Webster Parks and Recreation has sent someone to help out with that part of it.”

Thanks in part to bad weather, the Country Manor program has only been able to set up a few times this summer, so many families there have yet to discover it. But it’s an important community to connect with, since Country Manor has a significant Ukrainian refugee population.

“I think they’re interested,” Jason said, “but the language barrier presents a challenge. It’s too early to tell, really, but I think once they get used to us they will look forward to it.”

The BookBox program is truly a community effort. Webster community members donate books to the Friends, who then share them with Jason; the management at Phillips Village and Country Manor allow the library to set up shop; Wegmans donates gift cards; Webster Parks and Rec provides fitness instructors to play with kids; Webster Community Chest purchased the Phillips Village signs; and the United Church of Christ’s Caring Community Concerts series sponsors the Phillips Village BookBox.

And a huge thank you to the Webster Rotary Club for sponsoring the new Country Manor BookBox.

So even though the Webster Public Library created this amazing program, the entire Webster community is supporting it and helping it grow.

On behalf of the kids, thank you.

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

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(posted 7/31/2024)

WHS alumni will gather for annual dinner

31 Jul

Alumni of the old Webster High School (now Spry Middle School) will be gathering in a few weeks to share stories, get reacquainted with classmates and remember lost friends, when the Webster High School Alumni Committee hosts its alumni dinner.

The dinner, hosted this year by the Webster Golf Club on Sunday Aug. 11, is held annually for WHS graduates from 1949 through 1962, when the last class graduated from the old high school building on South Ave. More than 60 alumni (and their guests) attended last year’s dinner, and organizers hope that at least as many will be able to make it this time.

The program will begin with greetings from the Alumni Committee president Linda Briggs Auer ’59 and vice president Jude Beh Lancy ’59, followed by dinner, a short business meeting, a 50/50 raffle and a centerpiece raffle. Class members from this year’s “honor years” — 1944, 1949, 1954 and 1959 — will receive special recognition. And of course, the evening concludes with a recitation of the Alma Mater.

This is always a wonderful event filled with friendship and memories.

Many thanks to Kittelberger Florist for donating the centerpieces and to Lala of Webster and The Village Quilt Shoppe for providing raffle prizes.

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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 7/31/2024)

Webster community mailbag

30 Jul

It’s always exciting when the new school year is just around the corner, and it’s time to stock up on school supplies and new school clothes. But for many Webster families, it’s always a stressful time of year, too, because they really don’t have the money to spend on new backpacks and notebooks, let alone new clothes.

That’s why every August, Webster NY Hope holds a Back to School Night, when families in need can stop by and go home with a backpack filled with brand new school supplies. Right now, they’re collecting those supplies.

Here’s how you can help: Check out the attached flyer, which has a list of all the supplies they’re looking for. The list has been compiled from WCSD teacher lists.

You can drop off your donations at Webster Hope (1450 Ridge Rd.) or the Webster Public Library (980 Ridge Rd.) during their normal open hours. Those details are also on the flyer.

Webster Hope’s Back to School Night will be held on August 20. Families in need can sign up by Aug. 15 to participate. Call (585) 265-6694.

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Vendors needed for Jazz in the Pubs festival

A few days ago I posted a blog with details about the annual Webster Jazz Festival, which takes place on August 9 and 10.

What I did NOT mention in that post is that along with the Jazz in the Pubs on Friday Aug. 9, the village will be hosting a street festival with music and — hopefully — lots of business and vendor booths.

If your business would like to participate, email villageofwebsterbid@gmail.com for more details.

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This month at the Webster Public Library

For adults:

  • Rochester’s Early Adventurers with Matt Rogers, Thursday Aug. 15, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

A journey through time, showcasing the explorers and adventurers who came to this land and either lived alongside it, harnessed its power for industry or worked the soil and created communities., leading to the city and county we know today. The presentation will include a historical survey starting with the ancient Algonkin nation, to the Senecas, to early colonizers, to our modern day city. Registration is required.

  • Classical Guitar with Reiner Eschbach, Thursday Aug. 22, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Reiner Eschbach plays original creations on his acoustic guitar in a coffee house-like setting. Registration is required.

For teens and tweens:

  • T(w)een Olympics!, Friday Aug. 2, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Tweens and Teens are invited for an afternoon of Olympic-style minute-to-win-it challenges! You’ll also be decorating your own Olympic medals. Grades 4-12 welcome, and registration is requested.

  • Make It Monday: Map Ornaments, Monday Aug. 12, 6 to 7 p.m.

At the monthly craft night, participants will be making map ornaments. Teens (grades 4 and up) and adults are welcome to join us. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required.

For kids and families:

  • Toadstool Tales, Friday Aug. 9, 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Kids and kids at heart are invited for a concert with Rochester-based flutist and composer Jaclyn Breeze. The half-hour concert will feature three newly commissioned pieces to accompany classic fairy tales. All ages welcome. No registration is required.

  • Bug Storytime & Drop-In Crafts, Saturday Aug. 17, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. (storytime), 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (crafts)

Celebrate all things creepy crawly with a bug storytime! We will read stories, sing songs, and have some simple crafts to follow. All ages welcome. Crafts will be left out until 4:00 pm. No registration is required.

Finally, after all of this fun, join the library for their End of Summer Celebration, Friday Aug. 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. There’ll be crafts, activities and treats, and everyone is welcome. No registration is required.

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

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(posted 7/30/2024)

New kindergartners invited to Strive for Five

29 Jul

The beginning of the new school year is coming fast, so before long we’ll be thinking about buying supplies, getting up early again, and catching the bus.

For our youngest students, getting on a big school bus on that first day of school can be a little scary. A great program called Strive for Five for School Bus Safety helps allay some of those fears.

The program will be held from Aug. 5 to 8 at Willink Middle School. Now in its 17th year, it’s designed for 2024/25 incoming kindergartners giving our youngest One Webster students a chance to become familiar with school buses and learn important safety procedures.

New kindergartners (no additional children please) and their parents/guardians will board buses at Willink (900 Publisher’s Parkway) at 5:50 p.m. Buses will depart promptly at 6 p.m. and children and their parents will be transported to the bus garage at 1000 Document Drive for a fun and informative safety program, then ride the buses again back to Willink.

While at the bus garage, students will rotate through stations teaching them important safety elements, including:

  • Loading and unloading the bus
  • Proper crossing procedures
  • Danger zones surrounding the bus
  • Appropriate behavior on the bus
  • Emergency equipment/evacuation

Families are asked to attend the evening assigned to their particular school as indicated below, if at all possible. If you can’t make your assigned evening, you can come on another, but the district really likes to spread everyone out as much as possible.

August 5 – Plank South
August 6 – Klem North and State Rd.
August 7 – Klem South and Plank North
August 8 – Dewitt Rd. and Schlegel Rd.

Private and parochial students residing in the Webster Central School District can attend any one of the four dates. Families should already have received an email explaining more about the program.

The program will be held outside and will take place rain or shine.

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(posted 7/29/2024)

Jazz Festival details: who’s playing and when

28 Jul

Get ready to dance in the streets in a few weeks, when the Webster Jazz Festival returns.

The event will stretch over two days Friday and Saturday Aug. 9 and 10, kicking off with “Jazz in the Pubs” Friday evening beginning at 6:30 p.m. Five different bands are scheduled to perform at five different village pubs and restaurants, with staggered start times, so you can visit visit several (or all) of the venues for a drink and a bite to eat, and enjoy as many bands as you like. The musicians represent some of the best from the Rochester music scene, including some returning favorites and some new faces.

The music continues Saturday night when jazz takes to the street.

Beginning at 4 p.m., an outstanding lineup of musical entertainment will perform from the big West Main Street stage, featuring musicians from around Rochester and Upstate. There will be some tables and chairs set up, but they go pretty fast, so plan to bring your own, set them up in the middle of the street and enjoy music all evening long.

Here’s the music lineup for both days:

Friday Aug. 9

  • 6:30 p.m.Andy Calabrese and Peter Chwazik at Cobblestone on Main, 109 W. Main St. Calabrese is a pianist, educator and music producer and Rochester-based Chwazik is a bassist and guitarist.
  • 6:45 p.m.Sarah De Vallière at JoJo’s Webster, 42 E. Main St.An award-winning composer, classically-trained pianist and outstanding singer-songwriter, performing “cinematic folk rock with nuances of jazz and pop.”
  • 7:00 p.m.: Marvin Dolly & Mel Henderson at ROC Style, 5 W. Main St., performing “organic, funky grooves with street-level ambiance.”
  • 7:15 p.mJoe Chiappone & Vince Ercolamento at Ploty’s Tavern, 27 West Main St., jazz guitar and saxophone.
  • 8:15 p.m.: Bill Tiberio Band at the Coach Sports Bar, 19 W. Main St., original contemporary jazz in a multitude of styles.

Saturday Aug. 10

  • 4:00 p.m.CMD, re-imagining old rock and pop hits on piano, bass and drums
  • 5:15 p.m.: Sofrito, Latin jazz quintet
  • 6:45 p.m.: Smooth jazz sounds from Judah Sealya graduate of School of the Arts and Roberts Wesleyan College
  • 8:30 p.m.: Prime Time Funk, 10-piece powerhouse of passionate musicians who write, arrange, and perform a world-class combination of funk, jazz and R&B 

The Webster Jazz Festival is an outstanding event that really brings out the best the Village of Webster has to offer. The streets are packed with people, the hanging baskets and planters are in full bloom, and after dark the street is lined with twinkly lights. There’s dancing and drinking and eating, and so much fun for friends and family. Plus there’s no admission.

To find out more about the 2024 Webster Jazz Festival, and read more about the featured bands, visit the Webster BID website.

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

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(posted 7/28/2024)

Alan McBeth bridges the mud at Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve

26 Jul

A few days ago I posted a blog about the new and improved Wegmans Hit the Trail Passport, a terrific program brought to you by the Friends of Webster Trails. It’s a fun way for you and your family to get out and explore all of our local hiking trails.

The 40-page passport features 32 trails and trail spurs, measuring more than 36 miles of incredible natural beauty. The challenge is to hike each trail, and along the way make a rubbing into the passport of the trail marker you find on each one. (Click here to get more details.)

In today’s follow-up to that blog, I want to highlight a young man whose hard work has helped make our Webster trails the treasures that they are.

Recently, Boy Scout Alan McBeth of Troop 115 in Mendon, assisted by a team of volunteers, built a bridge from Herman Rd. Forever Wild Forest and the Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve.

The bridge, spanning nearly 60 feet, stretches over a muddy pass between the two trail systems, keeping walkers, runners and bikers out of what could potentially be knee-deep mud, while also preserving the habitat.

Alan built the bridge as part of his Eagle Scout project, and was mentored by Friends of Webster Trails Scout coordinator Pat Fulkerson.

Many thanks to Alan for a job well done, from a grateful Webster hiking community.

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

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(posted 7/26/2024)