Tag Archives: Local business

Webster community mailbag

13 Nov

Not a huge mailbag today, but there are a few things coming up VERY SOON that I wanted to remind you all about.

Vintage Book Sale

The Friends of the Webster Public Library’s next Vintage Book Sale is Saturday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library, 980 Ridge Road. Shop more than 200 fiction and nonfiction books published between the 19th early 21st centuries. Prices start at $8.

Then, just a few weeks from now, on Nov. 30, the Friends’ annual Holiday Book Sale opens. If you’re looking for seasonal gifts (aren’t we all), you should check out the selection of holiday-themed used books, DVDs, CDs, and jigsaw puzzles (while supplies last). They’ll be displayed in front of the Bookstore inside the Library. The sale runs through Jan 2 and will be open when the library is open.

Proceeds from the sale support the library. The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the rear of Webster Plaza.

Wait, there’s more!

If you’ve ever wanted to know more about our Webster Public Library, here’s your chance:

On Friday, Nov. 20, the library will host a “WPL Information Session” to share information with the public about what staff do at the library and what library services, resources, events, etc. we offer. They’re hoping the presentation will help folks who may be new to Webster or the Webster Library learn about this incredible community resource. Even long-time library patrons are likely to learn something new.

The presentation will be geared towards adults, and registration is required. Please register here.

Help create a cookbook at the Rec Center

Do you have some well-loved family recipes? Consider sharing them as the Webster Recreation Center hosts a “Create a Cookbook” event this Sunday, Nov. 15 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Dustin from ReciScan will be on hand to help create a community cookbook. Bring a few of your favorite recipes, the stories behind them, and optionally, photos of the prepared dishes to include alongside your recipes. A mix of recipes and stories will be chosen for the cookbook. Participants can watch the cookbook take shape, and work together to create an introduction and cover. Share family traditions, meet neighbors, and create a keepsake. (Space in the cookbook is limited, so not every recipe may be included.)

Printed cookbooks will cost $30-$45 each, separate from the participation fee (which is only $5). Book orders and payment will be collected at the event — cash, check or Venmo will be accepted. The finished cookbooks will be delivered to the Webster Recreation Center around Nov. 29.

Cost for the program is $5. Register for program # 341024-A.

Wreaths Across America reminder!

There’s still time to sponsor a wreath (or many) for Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, Dec. 19. This is a day when the Webster community comes together to place wreaths on more than 2,100 veteran graves in four Webster-area cemeteries.

But before we can place them, we have to get 2,100 wreaths sponsored. Each wreath costs just $17, and $5 from each sponsorship will go directly to the Gold Star Mothers, who care for Gold Star families and veterans in need in our community. Click here for more information and to sponsor a wreath.

Sometime in early December the wreaths will be delivered to Webster Union Cemetery by a Wreaths Across America 18-wheeler, which will make its way through the village to the cemetery. Keep tabs on this blog and my Facebook page to see when we can expect the truck, so we can all cheer it on.

Much more information to come about Wreaths Across America Day.

Will it actually snow this year?

Remember that the Village of Webster’s Winter Wonderland festivities are only a few weeks away.

For those of you not yet familiar with this annual celebration, this is an afternoon and evening packed with holiday fun, including wagon rides, crafts for the kids, cookie decorating, live music, story time, a visit with Santa and lots more, culminating with the always spectacular Parade of Lights down Main Street. I’ll be providing a whole lot more details about this in a week or two, but make sure to get it on your calendar right now.

Chamber eat drink and connect

This tidbit from the Webster Chamber of Commerce:

The Chris Ross State Farm Agency, serving our Webster community with insurance and financial services, hosted Webster Chamber of Commerce members for an evening of networking at one of the Chamber’s Eat, Drink & Connect events. Pictured below (L-R) are Bob Ross, Lucille Ross, Sam Ross, Chris Ross and Chrisanne Ross.

Also from the Chamber: They’re collecting hats, mittens, scarves, gloves, and socks for Webster HOPE. You can drop items at the Chamber office, bring them to any Chamber event, or order them on Amazon.com and have them shipped directly to the Chamber (1110 Crosspointe Lane, Suite C, Webster). Here are some links to make it easy: Amazon.com: : Cushioned Crew Socks and Winter Beanies & Gloves Combo Pack, Bulk Pack for Men Women.

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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 11/13/2026)

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Village Quilt Shoppe Fall Fundraiser will benefit Community Chest

6 Nov

Vanetta Parshall and Monique Liberti, owners of the Village Quilt Shoppe in Webster, are trying something new this year, and they’re REALLY excited about it.

It’s their first-ever, month-long Fall Charity Fundraiser, which will benefit the Webster Community Chest. It’s scheduled to run from Nov. 17 through Dec. 17, and will feature not only an incredible fall quilt — which they’ll be selling outright — but also nearly a year’s worth of beautiful, one-of-a-kind shop samples, including quilts, table runners, wall hangings, bags, holiday projects, and lots more. (Almost 100 of them!)

Items will be available to purchase on their website, or in person at their shop at 21 East Main St. in the Village of Webster, or by phone at 585-626-6916. All items will be first-come, first-served basis, and they’re not going to be able to hold or reserve items, so you want to get your favorites as soon as they’re available.

Here are a few more details:

  • Sales Tax: An 8% sales tax will be added to all purchases.
  • Shipping: Shipping is available for a flat rate of $8.95 on orders under $100. Shipping arrangements and charges for orders of $100 or more will be confirmed at the time of purchase.
  • Pickup Deadline: All items purchased for in-store pickup must be picked up no later than Friday, December 18, 2026.
  • Sample Condition: All items are finished shop samples and are being sold as pictured. Quantities are limited to one of each item. All sales are final.

Starting November 17, there’ll be a special Charity Fundraiser link right on the homepage of the website. Just click the link to browse all the beautiful samples available for purchase.

The ladies have already started sharing photos of the available samples on their Facebook page and Instagram (thevillagequiltshopp), and will continue providing more sneak peaks in the days to come. Plus, they’re displaying many of the samples in their East Main St. shop if you’d like to check them out in person. They’ll be adding new samples every two to three days throughout the fundraiser, so be sure to check back often.

This is a great chance to pick up something special for yourself or for holiday gifts. And remember, 100% of the proceeds from the quilt and sample sales will go to the Webster Community Chest.

The Village Quilt Shoppe is located at 21 East Main St. in the Vllage of Webster.

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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 11/6/2026)

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Webster community mailbag

3 Nov

Packed mailbag today, to let’s get right into it. Some of these are repeats of events from previous mailbags, so I’ll try to keep them brief.

Webster’s very own SparX Robotics Team 1126 is hosting an Open House on Thursday, Nov. 5 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the South Cafeteria at Webster Thomas High School. Attendees will have a chance to get up-close and personal with this year’s robot, plus go behind the scenes with tours of the production and CAD areas. Former SparX members are especially welcome, to reconnect and meet the current team members.

SparX will also be collecting bottles and cans during the event. And remember that bottles and cans can be dropped off year-round at Nickel Back Bottle & Can Return, 659 Ridge Rd, Webster. Please remember to label your bags for the team to get credit.

Plus, this Sunday, Nov. 8, SparX will be hosting a Flapjack Breakfast at Applebees in Webster from 8 to 10 a.m. Tickets are $10 per person, available at the door. This is a tasty way to support the team!

Storytime at the Museum

On Saturday, Nov. 7 at the Webster Museum, elementary-school aged children are invited to hear a story and learn a bit of history from Mrs. Nesbitt, a retired elementary school teacher. From 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Mrs. Nesbitt will lead a discussion about the historic one-room school house located at the back of the museum, and teach children about communication methods over the years, including the telephone. Please register ahead of time. Parents must remain in the museum during the event.

The Webster Museum will also be honoring veterans in two ways this year.

Also on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 2 p.m., Steve Wendell of Honor Flight will make a presentation. Honor Flight of Rochester is a non-profit organization which serves veterans in Monroe and surrounding counties. Steve will share how to get started on the process to join an Honor Flight. Steve has been on 12 Honor Flights and went as Guardian with his father, who served in World War II. Two local veterans who have taken Honor Flights will also be on hand: Bob Steinorth, who was in the Vietnam War, and Navy submariner Dave Baird. The program is an open program for veterans to tell their stories. Refreshments will be provided.

The program is free and handicapped-accessible.

Also, the museum will be open on Veteran’s Day, Wednesday Nov. 11. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and fill out a star on the museum’s interactive display to honor veterans that you know.

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

Community Office Hours

Join Town Supervisor Alex Scialdone and other Webster representatives to talk about the local issues that matter most to you. The next scheduled Community Office Hours are Monday, Nov. 9, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with Deputy Supervisor Nick Hunter at the Webster Town Board Room, 1002 Ridge Rd.; and Thursday, Nov. 12, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with Supervisor Alex Scialdone at Liberty Lodge at Finn Park, 850 Maple Dr.

Note that there is no formal presentation at these events. It’s just your chance to hang out with your representatives, ask your questions and present your concerns. You don’t have to register; just show up.

Craft show to benefit WSPS

Here’s another reminder about this weekend’s indoor craft sale at the Webster Recreation Center to benefit the Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters. It happens Saturday Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rec Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.

Ladies Night at JF Jones

JF Jones Jewelers s hosting a special “Ladies Night,” after-hours evening “just for you and your favorite girls” on Thursday Nov. 12 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

It promises to be a fun night of “shopping, sipping and dreaming.” It’s your chance to see JF Jones’ newest merchandise and latest styles, try on some pieces you’ve had your eye on and enjoy some time just for you and your girlfriends. Enjoy charcuterie, champagne, and a sweet dessert while you browse. Plus, the first 50 ladies who attend and create a wish list will receive a free gift bag.

Please RSVP here so they can plan enough food and treats for everyone. JF Jones Jewelers is located at 1170 Ridge Rd. (in the plaza next to Heart to Heart Bride).

Family Scavenger Hunt

Don’t forget about the Family Scavenger Hunt on Saturday Nov. 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Kent Park, 1700 Schlegel Rd. Participants can choose their own adventure as they explore the park, completing a fun scavenger hunt along the way. Three different skill levels will be available for kids aged 2 to 12, so children of all ages can participate, and every child will earn a prize.

Cost is $5 per child, and please preregister at the Recreation Center website. You can pay when you get to the hike. Sign in anytime between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The hunt will take place rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Proceeds will be donated to the Webster Arboretum to help improve Webster’s trails.

Vintage Book Sale

The Friends of the Webster Public Library’s next Vintage Book Sale is Saturday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library, 980 Ridge Road. Shop more than 200 fiction and nonfiction books published between the 19th early 21st centuries. Prices start at $8.

Proceeds from the sale support the library.

Help the Webster Chamber help our community

The Webster Chamber of Commerce is collecting hats, mittens, scarves, gloves, and socks for Webster HOPE. You can drop items at the Chamber office, bring them to any Chamber event, or order them on Amazon.com and have them shipped directly to the Chamber (1110 Crosspointe Lane, Suite C, Webster). Here are some links to make it easy: Amazon.com: : Cushioned Crew Socks and Winter Beanies & Gloves Combo Pack, Bulk Pack for Men Women.

The Chamber would also like to invite area businesses — especially those investigating membership in the Chamber — to attend the next Eat, Drink & Connect. This is a casual get-together, a chance to meet current members and find out more about Chamber membership.

This month’s Eat, Drink & Connect will be held on Thursday, Nov. 12 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Beyond Cuts, 33 North Avenue in Webster.

The opportunity to host one of these events is a Chamber member benefit, earning increased visibility for the hosting business. Make sure to bring a door prizes when you attendm which will increase your business’ visibility. You might even be a winner. Check out photos from October’s Eat, Drink & Connect here. There’s no fee to attend, but 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)

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 11/3/2026)

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Photos and thoughts from the Trick-or-Treat Trail

31 Oct

I don’t think the weather could have been any nicer for this year’s Trick-or-Treat Trail in the Village of Webster. The temperatures were a bit cool, but the sun kept things warm enough for everyone to be pretty comfortable, costumes or not.

There are so many things I love about the Trick-or-Treat Trail. I always enjoy seeing the wide variety of creative costumes, and especially appreciate the ones which were obviously hand-made. Even they ran the gamut from a box (actually a “package” being delivered by a UPS driver) to a very detailed Very Hungry Caterpillar, to a “bull in a china shop.” Plus, I love seeing all of the cool parents and grandparents who get into the spirit and get dressed up as well. They seemed to be having as much fun as the kids.

I also appreciate all of the small business owners who take part, in costume and sitting at tables outside, or inviting everyone to stream through their shops (which I thought was very brave of them). The Webster Museum had their usual scavenger hunt, which was very popular. Thanks to some work being done on the bay floors, the Webster Volunteer Fire Department had to set up outside the station this year, but they still had a huge supply of candy and plastic fire hats. Plus, it’s always nice to see my friends from the Webster Public Library.

I spent a few hours wandering the streets, accompanied by my youngest daughter, who — by virtue of being a Millenial — was able to translate many of the costume themes for me. (Perhaps you saw me with my camera; I was dressed as a reporter.) After sorting through all my photos, I ended up with almost 100. You can see all of them in this Facebook gallery, or if you don’t have Facebook, you can see them in this Google gallery.

Conratulations, Webster BID for another great event.

The Trick-or-Treat Trail, by the way, is just the first of several special events coming up in the village in the next few months. Stay tuned in the next few days for a blog about them, including news about a brand new festival planned for next June.

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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 10/31/2026)

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What’s happening at the Mary Wee?

30 Oct

If you’ve been in the Village of Webster recently, you might have noticed that SOMETHING is going on at the Mary Wee Pub at the village’s four corners. There’s been a pile of wood by the garage door on the patio for about a week now, and more recently, that pile’s been joined by even more wood and ladders, tools and actual workmen scurrying around, measuring and installing.

Friday morning I popped by the pub to chat with Mark Petzing, the pub’s owner, to find out what’s going on.

In a nutshell, Mark said they’re “remodeling the patio, to make it look nicer, make it pop.”

Specifically, plans call for adding overhangs above the front and side sections of the pub’s patio. The partially enclosed spaces will offer protection from the rain without being completely closed off. Ceiling fans will keep things comfortable during the warmer months, while built-in heaters will extend their use into the cooler seasons. “We’re looking to get a couple months out of each end, in the spring and the fall,” Mark said.

The entire pub will also get a new metal roof, which will extend over the patio’s new overhangs, creating a seamless look. The middle section, which will remain uncovered, will get its own makeover, including a pergola and what promises to be “some nice lighting.” New brickwork will spruce up the siding, and tying it all together, the entire patio will receive brand-new furniture.

The vision behind it all, Mark said, is to “bring the inside out and the outside in,” creating a seamless connection between the pub and its patio so that even those dining outdoors feel very much a part of the pub’s atmosphere.

Ultimately, Mark says he wants to make the pub’s patio a fresh addition to the village, make it look “more fun, and make the corner pop. I think everyone will like it. I hope everyone likes it.”

Work is progressing apace now, but Mark doesn’t expect it to be all done for another month or two. That means the new patio might not get a whole lot of use before next spring (unless we have some REALLY nice days this winter). But it’s going to be awesome space for next St. Patrick’s Day.

The Mary Wee Pub is located at 2 West Main Street in the Village of Webster.

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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 10/30/2026)

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Sip ‘n’ Shop this week to benefit the Women’s Club

21 Sep

Now here’s an event I want to pull out for special attention because it’s gonna be a lot of fun, AND it benefits an organization near and dear to my heart, the Women’s Club of Webster.

It’s called Sip, Shop, Savor and Support, and it’s being hosted by Lala of Webster this Thursday, Sept. 24 on behalf of the Women’s Club. It’s an evening of coming together as a community to have fun with friends, meet new people, and benefit a good cause at the same time.

From 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday Sept. 24, shoppers are asked visit Lala’s and purchase items worth $15 or more to be included in raffle baskets being prepared for the club’s Card and Game Party on Tuesday Sept. 29. The party is one of three big fundraisers the Women’s Club hosts every year, which also include the Christmas Cookie Sale in December at the Webster Public Library, and the Fashion Show every spring.

As a thank you for your donation, shoppers will receive 20% storewide on items over $10 (excluding final sale items).

BUT THERE’S MORE! After you’re done shopping, head next door to Jojo Bistro & Wine Bar for live music, and 20% off your bill when you show them your Lala receipt.

Sounds like a great date night to me.

I’ll be there through the whole event with a smile and information about the Women’s Club for anyone who might be interested. Please come by and say hi!

Lala of Webster is located at 38 East Main Street in the village.

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By the way, the Women’s Club is gearing up for their October meeting, scheduled for Thursday, October 15 at Bill Gray’s Restaurant, 964 Ridge Rd.

Tracy Dennis, Benefits Counselor for the Webster Community Chest, will be the featured speaker. Social time begins at 11:15 a.m., followed by a business meeting at noon, lunch at 12:30 p.m. and Tracy’s presentation at 1 p.m.

Attendees can choose one of two lunch options, a cheeseburger or grilled chicken sandwich. Side dishes will include tater tots, macaroni salad, coffee, soda and dessert. Cost is $20. Please mail your check by Oct. 8, made out to the Women’s Club of Webster, to Mary Malone, 606 Galbro Circle, Webster, 14580. 

New members are always welcome, and warm camaraderie is included at no charge! 

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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 9/21/2026)

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Another flood sale at the Quilt Shoppe?!

15 Sep

It’s happened again, but fortunately this time it wasn’t as bad.

You may remember that back in 2019, just months after the Village Quilt Shoppe opened at 21 East Main St. in the Village of Webster, a water leak from the upstairs apartment came through the floor and ruined much of their merchandise. They had to close to regroup, but came back strong thanks to their very loyal customers.

Well, it happened again. Another water leak from the same apartment. This time, though, it only affected some of their fabrics. So once again, the Village Quilt Shoppe is having a “Flood Sale.” Monique and Vanetta have washed all of the affected fabric, cut it into convenient one-yard and two-yard pieces, and are selling it for $7 a yard (cash only).

So stop on down to the shop at 21 East Main St. (on the corner of Lapham Park) and grab some bargains.

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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 9/15/2026)

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Lots of Webster businesses are in contention for Rochester’s best

11 Sep

You might have read a few days ago in my blog that Sweet Shenanigans bakery on East Main St. in the village has been nominated them in the Best Bakery category of this year’s Rochester Community’s Choice Awards.

Well, as I was going online yesterday to vote for them again (guess what? You can vote EVERY DAY!) I noticed that they are not the only Webster business included in the list of nominees, by far.

I took a quick walk through the list last night and this is what I came up with. I’ve identified them by their category, so when you vote, look for the category to find them. See if there’s a business in here that you’d like to support, and after you’ve read through them all, I’ll tell you again how to go about voting.

Beauty and Health

  • Joe’s Barbershop
  • Lattimore Physical Therapy
  • Burds Physical Therapy

Dining (various sub-categories)

  • Proietti’s Italian Restaurant
  • Royal Dynasty
  • Sweet Shenanigans
  • Mama Lor’s Cafe
  • Bill Gray’s
  • Charlie Riedel’s
  • Tom Wahl’s
  • Uncle Buck’s Catering
  • BC’s Chicken Coop
  • Abbott’s Frozen Custard
  • Bruster’s
  • Salvatore’s
  • Castaways

Entertainment and Leisure

  • Play-a-Latte

Kids and Education

  • DK Dance
  • Northern Hemisphere Gymnastics
  • St. Rita School (preschool)
  • Webster Thomas High School

Pets

  • Ruff Day Pet Resport

Services

  • Ace Swim & Leisure

Shopping

  • Orville’s Home Appliances
  • Heart to Heart Bride
  • Warren’s Decorating
  • Kittelberger Florist
  • Sunscape Farms
  • JF Jones Jewelers

If, as you go through the nominations, you see that I’ve missed anyone, please let me know and I’ll add them to the list.

Here’s how to vote:

  • Go to Rochester Community’s Choice Awards and click “Vote Now.” If you hit a Democrat and Chronicle paywall, don’t worry. Just back out of that screen and hit “Vote Now” again and it should let you through.
  • The voting instructions are there, but basically they’ll make you register before you make your first vote, then you’ll breeze through the next time you log on.
  • Scroll down to the category you want.
  • Click on the category and the nominated businesses will show up. Just click “vote” next to your selection.

As I mentioned, you can do this every day through Sept. 23, so basically, you can stuff the ballot box. So log on and let’s vote for Webster!

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(posted 9/11/2026)

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)

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Webster business bits

9 Sep

I’ve had occasion recently to visit several of our town and village’s small business owners. My main purpose was to solicit donations for the Women’s Club of Webster’s upcoming Card and Game Party, and of course everyone was very generous, as our small business owners always are. But it was also a great chance for me to check in on these businesses, and chat with the owners to see how things are going.

In the process, I learned about all sorts of special events and new offerings, several of which I would now like to share with you.

We’re going to start with some BIG NEWS from Sweet Shenanigans at 15 East Main St. in the village. This little bake shop is barely six months old — they only opened in April — but it has already become a village favorite.

So much so that our sweets-loving Webster community has nominated them in the Best Bakery category of this year’s Rochester Community’s Choice Awards.

The Community’s Choice Awards is a nationwide program which celebrates the best businesses and organizations across the country. Community members nominate and vote for their favorite companies in more than 100 categories. Sweet Shanigans is vying against six other Rochester-area bakeries, including some big names you will definitely recognize. And this is just the first round; if they get enough votes, their category will be whittled down to five semi-finalists, then three finalists.

Voting is open now through September 23, so log on soon to cast your vote for Webster’s very own Sweet Shenanigans. Click this link to go to the voting page, click on the “Dining” tab, then “Bakery.”

And this is the kind of thing that has made Sweet Shenanigans a favorite:

They’ve just introduced a really fun new concept, the “Shenanigans Surprise Bags.” Basically, if you’re undecided about what to choose from the delightful variety of goodies in their display cases, you can order a surprise bag. They’ll choose around eight items from the cases and the bread rack — generally a $25-$30 value — and pack them up all ready to go. Your cost is only $20.

There is a limited amount of Surprise Bags available, and they’re only offered on Thursdays.

This adorable little “Trinket Trade Box” is located outside Oh Bella, a charming boutique located at 24 East Main St.

Owner Isabella Proietti got the idea from a shop she came across in Orlando and installed hers at the beginning of summer. The idea is kind of like a Little Free Library, but in this case children can place little trinkets, toys or stickers in it, and take what they’d like. Isabella says it’s been very popular, with both children and adults alike.

It’s pretty adorable. Make sure to check it out next time you’re in the village.

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Never Say Never Stables, located at 906 Maple Dr. in West Webster, has recently introduced a brand new “Horse Hangout” experience for adults.

It’s part of the Barnside Social Club, a welcoming place to relax, connect, and enjoy the company of horses, without the pressure of riding, lessons, or need of experience.

The Never Say Never website explains,

Many of the horses at Never Say Never Stables are enjoying their senior years. After spending their lives teaching, carrying, and caring for people, they’ve earned a softer landing. While they’re no longer suited for regular adult riding, they still thrive on connection. They love being groomed, pampered, hand-grazed, talked to, photographed, and simply enjoyed for who they are. And as it turns out, many adults are looking for exactly that.

The Barnside Social Club was created for those who miss being around horses, dream of owning one someday, once rode years ago, or simply find peace in their presence. Here, there is no pressure to ride, perform, or know anything about horses. Just come as you are and enjoy authentic connection with these wonderful animals—and with other people who appreciate them, too.
Because sometimes the best part of the horse isn’t riding.

The program offers participants the opportunity to meet and connect with the horses in a relaxed barn atmosphere. You can meet fellow horse lovers and enjoy light refreshments or BYO, depending on the event. No riding experience is necessary.

New adventures are scheduled every month. Click here for more information and to check availability.

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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 9/15/2026)

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Happy anniversary Village Quilt Shoppe!

1 Sep

I’m embarrassed to say that this occasion almost completely passed me by. But an email I got this morning from The Village Quilt Shoppe reminded me that this cute little shop turns seven years old this week. With all the business comings and goings of late, and all the empty storefronts, I’m happy to see a village business thriving.

That’s especially the case here, because owners Vanetta Parshall and Monique Liberti had a very rocky start. Just three months after they opened their doors in August 2019, a water leak from the apartment above the shop came through the floor and destroyed much of their merchandise. They had to close for almost a month. Then, a year later, COVID struck — and you know how difficult it was for small businesses to navigate that.

But thanks to a solid core of loyal customers, they navigated both of these major obstacles and came back stronger each time. And now this week they’re celebrating seven years in business.

Vanetta and Monique have several special events up their sleeves to celebrate the anniversary, most notably, Birthday Bingo TODAY (Tuesday Sept. 1) at 1 p.m. and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. They’ll be handing out free gifts with every purchase all week, and treats for all. Plus, they’ll have a prize wheel which you can spin for extra discounts.

They promise more fun surprises all week, so make sure to stop by the shop.

The Village Quilt Shoppe is located at 21 E. Main St. in the Village of Webster, at the corner of Lapham Park.

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(posted 9/1/2026)

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