Tag Archives: Local business

Polished Pup joins Webster’s grooming scene

17 Jan

There’s a new dog groomer in the Village of Webster, ready to help even the dirtiest of dogs become fresh, clean, and polished.

It’s called the Polished Pup, located at 181 North Ave., next door to Salvatore’s Pizzeria. It’s owned and operated by Mackenzie Kinley who, you could say, started her business at a rapid clip.

At just 19 years old, Mackenzie’s route to becoming a small business owner was a rather circuitous one, quickly turning from a traditional college career to entrepreneurship. Shortly after graduating from Webster Thomas High School in the spring of 2022, Mackenzie went south to Coastal Carolina University to study either marine biology or forensic psychology. Quickly realizing that neither was right for her, she withdrew after just a month.

She was pretty sure back then, however, that what she really wanted to do was work with dogs. “I always loved them and grew up with them,” she said. “I knew this was a passion of mine.” Becoming a veterinarian didn’t appeal to her (“I couldn’t handle seeing them pass away and in pain”). Instead, grooming felt like a perfect fit. She started saving for her own apartment, studio and equipment, signed up for grooming school and officially opened the Polished Pup last August.

Even though she’s only been in business for about five months, Mackenzie’s already developed a steady clientele. She attributes her early success to the personal attention she gives to every one of her canine clients.

“It’s a basic thing,” she said, “but I really do care about them. … I only do two dogs a day and I go at their own pace. I tell my clients two hours baseline instead of one, to really make (the dog) feel comfortable.” Mackenzie added that she uses all natural products — shampoos, conditioners, sprays and treats — “to keep them healthy and happy.”

“I really hope that once a dog starts coming here, they never leave, they never have to go anywhere else.”

The best way to get in touch with Mackenzie and the Polished Pup is to text her at (585) 645-9200. For more information and to see lots of cute puppy photos, check out her Facebook page and website and her Instagram feed at @polished_pup.

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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.

(posted 1/17/2024)

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An update from 2 West Main

10 Jan

If you haven’t been through the Village of Webster’s four-corners recently, you may not have seen all the changes happening at 2 West Main St., the former Barry’s Irish Pub.

It’s been cleared out and opened up so much that Barry’s regulars might not even recognize it. The bar is gone and the wall between the bar and the old bakery area has been removed. The sliding door separating the kitchen from the dining area and all of the kitchen equipment are also history. The whole space looks twice the size of the old Barry’s.

The building’s owner, Greg Chambery (who also owns Maplewood Nursing Home) reports he’s had a lot of interest in the corner, but there’s nothing signed yet. Rest assured, though, he loves this village as much as we all do, and knows full well that everyone is anxiously awaiting to hear good news about what will follow in Barry’s footsteps. “I’ve got a heart for the village,” he said, “and want to make that corner something that people are proud of.”

As for Danny and Jessica Barry and their plans for opening a new pub? I haven’t heard anything about that yet, either. For now, they’ve been having great success marketing their Barry’s Irish Cream, but may very well be working in the background on securing a new pub location.

When I hear anything, I’ll let you know.

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 1/10/2024)

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Fun stuff at the library

6 Jan

I give up.

There are so many neat things happening at the Webster Public Library ALL THE TIME that I’ve decided it’s too difficult staying on top of all of them. The best way to do that, if you’d really like to stay informed, is to frequent the Webster Public Library website, and “like” their Facebook page. They post on both regularly.

However, having said that, a few things in their emails always strike me as particularly interesting.

  • Topping off the list, the library has gone FINE FREE. The library’s Board of Trustees voted to eliminate daily late fines on all materials effective January 1, 2024. (They’ll still bill for the cost of lost and/or damaged items.) Additionally, there will no longer be a .50 cent charge for placing items on hold. If you still have unused WPL Hold Punch Cards, please speak to a staff member at the Check Out Desk to learn about our hold card redemption plan.
  • On January 11 beginning at 6:30 p.m., the next installment of “Tending to Life”, a series co-sponsored by the Webster Public Library and the Webster Comfort Care Home, will take place. Information on the Comfort Care house and what it provides for patients and families will be provided. All are welcome. Registration is requested.
  • The community table this month will have a Calendar Swap. Have a surplus of supplies and looking to share? Drop off your gently used, unwanted items or pick up something new.
  • Looking for more information about area preschools? On Monday, Jan. 8 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., the library will host a Webster Area Preschools Open House. Representatives from preschools and nursery schools in the Webster area will be available to chat with parents and provide information about their programs. So far, the participants include Little Learners, Rochester Christian School, Webster Central Schools pre-K, Woodside Nursery School, Positive Preschool, St. Rita’s and St. Joseph’s. Registration is not required.
  • The next Webster Business Spotlight shines on Chef Mike, the Pastaio of M.O. Pasta, as he demonstrates techniques and skills on how to make fresh pasta. Learn all about Chef Mike’s culinary journey and pro tips on how to make the best pasta at home! It takes place Monday Jan. 29 from 1 to 2 p.m. and registration is requested. Mike, by the way, is one of my favorite people. Here’s the blog I wrote when he opened up his East Main St. shop last April.
  • You like jigsaw puzzles? Need some new ones? Check out the National Puzzle Day Jigsaw Exchange, all day Monday Jan. 29. Bring your gently used puzzles to exchange for something new to you. Bring in as many as you want There are no guarantees that all the pieces are there, so swap at your own risk.
  • The Monday afternoon Sit & Stitch program is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Twenty years of fellowship, sharing and teaching folks to knit, crochet and do other fiber arts. Join them for refreshments and reminiscing, on Monday Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. No registration is necessary, and you can even bring your needles and yarn and stay a while.

Remember, these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all of the great events and programs at your very own Webster Public Library. Remember, you can find out more at the Webster Public Library website, and Facebook page.

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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 1/6/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

5 Jan

With the beginning of the new year, my email box is beginning to fill up again. Here’s the latest from my mailbag:

Woodside Nursery School will host a Prospective Family Open House on Thursday January 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the school, located at the back of the United Church of Christ, 570 Klem Rd. Meet the teachers, tour the classrooms and find out more.

Woodside will also be represented at the Webster Public Library’s Preschool Open House event on Jan. 8 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., in case you can’t make it to the school.

If you’re one of my many readers who were interested in finding out where to volunteer in Webster, here’s an event just for you.

The Webster Community Chest Volunteer Appreciation Event will take place on Tuesday Jan. 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Webster Public Library community room, 980 Ridge Rd.

If you’ve volunteered at one of their events or for the Meal Center this year, or perhaps haven’t volunteered yet but have been wanting to start, this event is for you. Stop by, have some refreshments, meet the faces of the Webster Community Chest and learn more about your perfect volunteer opportunity with the organization. Please let them know you’ll be coming at webcommchest@gmail.com. (Or if you forget, just stop by anyway.)

The Women’s Club of Webster’s January meeting will be a pizza party at Proietti’s Restaurant, 980 Ridge Rd., on Thursday Jan. 18.

Festivities begin at 11:15 with a social mix-and-mingle, followed by a brief meeting at noon and lunch at 12:30 p.m. This month’s speaker will be First Vice-President Jean Loughridge, who will talk about the club and the charities it supports. Enjoy pizza, salad, a cannoli and camaraderie for $18. New members are always WELCOME!

Send your check made out to WCW by January 11 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Questions? Phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303.

The Webster Chamber of Commerce has two events coming up this month, and business owners are all welcome, whether you’re a member of the Chamber or not.

On Thursday Jan. 11, the next Webster Chamber Eat Drink & Connect will be hosted by Chamber member Wireless Zone, 2157 Penfield Road (Wegmans Plaza).

Tour the new store, enjoy refreshments, Hear the story of more than doubling foot traffic and have fun working toward being a game winner. Chamber members and visitors are encouraged to attend. Please register here.

Then, coming up on Friday Jan. 26 is the next Monthly Breakfast Program meeting. Network with an many as 90 business and organizational leaders during the monthly Webster Chamber breakfasts. In addition to networking before and during the breakfast, an informative program is always planned, along with a time to “pass-the-mic” so everyone has an opportunity to be visible. Visitors and members are welcome.

These meetings are always held at 7 a.m. at the Webster Recreation Center. Please register here.

Also from the Chamber, news from the last breakfast meeting, when Marina Auto Group was recognized as Business of the Month.

Located on Ridge Road in Webster, Marina Auto Group president John B. Gabriele has led his business growth to become a significant employer in Webster, currently employing 85 people.  

Over the years, Gabriele has added to the auto industry manufacturers they represent: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mitsubishi, and Ram. Early in his dealership career, he was located in West Irondequoit as Weller Motors. In May of 2001 the State acquired their property for the construction of the O’Rourke Bridge. At that point, Gabriele made the decision to locate his business to Webster. Twenty two years later, Marina Auto is fully entwined within our Webster community.

One member business is chosen every month to be honored as Business of the Month, chosen by a volunteer committee comprised of Chamber members. The award is presented at the monthly breakfast meeting.

Pictured above: (L-R) Marina Sales Manager Tony Gabriele, Jr., Webster Chamber President & CEO Barry Howard, Marina President John B. Gabriele, General Manager John Gabriele Jr., and Office Manager Vittorio Romantini.

Finally, some notes from the Webster Central School District:

Willink Lego Robotics Team Wins Engineering Excellence Award

Congratulations to Willink Middle School’s Lego robotics team for taking first place for Engineering Excellence at the First Lego League qualifier at McQuaid Jesuit High School, held Dec. 16.

The Engineering Excellence Award celebrates a team with an efficiently designed robot, an innovative project solution that effectively addresses the season’s challenge, and CORE values evident in all they do. At the competition, Titans Traigh Schroeder, Sai Abhiram Pathaneni, Kyle Hughes, Artem Leskiv, and Andrii Kravtsiv presented an innovation project, explained their robot design, and ran the robot game three times.

This is the first time since 2019 that Willink Middle School has competed in the First Lego League qualifier. The Titans put in more than 35 hours after school to prepare for the event where they faced off against 16 teams from the Rochester area.

Community Input Sought on School District Budget

Webster CSD welcomes feedback from all district community members when planning a budget for a school district that serves 8,100 students and 1,600+ staff members. Knowing the feedback of the school district community will help the district develop a budget that reflects community input for its students. 

As some may remember, Webster CSD uses ThoughtExchange as one of its many communication tools. Thought Exchange is a collaborative, online discussion platform that is used to gain insights and feedback from the community to make decisions that impact everyone, including a proposed budget for next year. Participation is voluntary and thoughts are shared but identities are kept confidential. Participants may view and objectively rate others’ feedback. 

The community is asked to please consider participating in the district’s latest ThoughtExchange by going online to www.websterschools.org and clicking on the link for the news story “Community Input Sought on District Budget” to answer the question: What are the most important things to consider as we begin to plan for our upcoming budget? This ThoughtExchange closes on Wednesday, January 31, so please visit the website soon.

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 1/5/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

13 Dec

Have your kids had a chance to see Santa this year? If not, no sweat. Santa will be at Never Say Never Stables this Saturday and Sunday Dec. 16 and 17, from noon to 2 p.m. both days, visiting with the kids and the horses. (Including an adorable reinhorse!)

In addition to the chance to talk with Santa, this FREE family-fun event will also feature hay wagon rides, a make-your-own reindeer snack station, a take-home treat for the children, and photo ops with all of the animals, including horses, goats, ducks, chicken, bunny and guinea pig.

Never Say Never Stables, located at 906 Maple Dr., is a small family-owned horse farm offering children’s lessons, fun programs, and parties on a more personal, “not-so-commercial” scale. It is also home to the Never Say Never Foundation, a not-for-profit equine-assisted program that provides life-enriching, horse related experiences to children and teens living with long-term illness, special needs and/or other serious life challenges. 

Spaghetti Dinner

The Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters (WSPS) is hosting a Spaghetti Dinner on January 5, 2024 at the Webster Masonic Temple, 30 Orchard Street.

Dinner will be served from 5 to 7 p.m., and includes spaghetti, meatballs, salad, bread, drink and dessert. Cost is $12 for adults, $6 for kids 12 and under. You can eat in or take out.

All proceeds go to supporting the WSPS, a local non-profit providing rides for Webster School District Seniors to their medical appointments.

This notice from the Webster Schools:

Families of Young Children Asked to Take Census

Webster CSD is surveying the community to forecast student enrollment for the foreseeable future.

Anyone in the district who has children residing in their household ages birth to 5 years old is asked to
complete the brief online census. Families who don’t have access to a computer can participate by calling Student Registration at (585) 216-0029.

The annual young child census is available now on the district website and will be available through Jan. 6, 2024.

New benches on the Hojack

Shout-out to Cole Featherly, from Scout Troop 262, for his fine work on three new benches he built for the Hojack Trail as part of his Eagle Scout Project.

Cole also installed two similar benches in the new Michael A. Johnson Nature Preserve. Some of the benches have additional small tables.

The project was suggested and funded by the Friends of Webster Trails (FWT) using a grant from the Webster Rotary , and supervised by FWT Scout liaison Pat Fulkerson. Keep an eye out for them as you’re hiking the trails this season!

Finally, here are a few final reminders about special events at the Webster Museum and the Webster Public Library.

The museum is holding a great fundraiser which will make a perfect gift idea. It’s called “12 Months of Flowers,” and is being offered in conjunction with Kittelberger Florist.

Purchase a “12 Months of Flowers” card for $40, cash or check only, at the museum during their regular hours, or email jannaujokas1@yahoo.com. You’ll receive one bouquet of flowers, each month, for 12 consecutive months. Bouquets are valued at $15 and must be picked up at Kittelberger Florist, 263 North Ave, Webster. What a great way to brighten every month of the new year for someone special (or yourself)!

The Webster Museum is located at 18 Lapham Park (just steps off of East Main St.). They’re open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

And don’t forget about the Friends of the Webster Library Holiday Book Sale, happening right now.

There’s a table set up through Dec. 21 (unless everything sells out before then) with gently-used books, DVDs, CDs and puzzles. Stop by next time you’re at the library and check some things off your shopping list.

The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back 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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 12/13/2023)

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Webster community mailbag

30 Nov

Let’s start today with news of a fundraiser for the Webster Athletic Association at DiBella’s Subs on Empire Blvd.

The flyer gives the details, but basically, if you order from DiBella’s in store or online between Dec. 1 and Dec. 15, 20% of your check will go to the WAA. You’ll need to use code WAA20. See the flyer for more details.

Bernardi & Co. CPA, at 40 Barrett Drive, is hosting a free financial seminar designed for individuals and small businesses who could use a little advice.

The seminar, about Saving and Investing, is scheduled for Tuesday Dec. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bernardi & Co. offices, and there’s no cost. But please RSVP as space is limited.

Email Elena@bernardiCPA.com to reserve your spot. If you have any questions, call 585-217-9393.

The Women’s Club of Webster will hold their 29th annual Christmas Cookie Sale on Saturday Dec. 9 in the Webster Public Library community room.

The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until the cookies are sold out. This is always a highly anticipated event, so you might want to get there early. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the club’s scholarship funds and their support for many other programs in the Webster community.

The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza. For more information, please contact Peg Berry at 203-645-9352.

If you’d like to get more involved in the Women’s Club, here’s your chance: the club will be hosting their December Holiday Party on Thursday Dec. 21 at the Penfield Country Club, 1784 Jackson Rd.

The event begins with a social at 11:15 a.m., followed by the meeting at noon, lunch at 12:30, then “holiday gaiety” and an optional gift exchange. If you’d like to participate in the gift exchange, the gifts should not exceed $10. The luncheon buffet will feature assorted wraps, tossed salad, fruit salad and a cookie.

Special guest at this meeting will be Rochester folk musician Allen Hopkins.    

Cost for the luncheon is $27. Send your check made out to WCW by December 14 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Questions? Phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303. And remember, new members are always welcome!

The beautifully melodic Senior Singers will host their annual Holiday Concert at the Webster Recreation Center on Tuesday Dec. 19 at 11 a.m.

The Senior Singers is a lively group of older adults who come together at the Rec Center every Tuesday to rehearse and perform music. There’s no cost; they just do it for the love of music. (If you want to read more about them, click here to see the blog I wrote.)

There’s no charge to attend the holiday concert, and registration is not necessary, So plan to take a moment out of your day and stop by to hear some beautiful music,. (And perhaps consider joining this fun group.)

The Webster Recreation Center is at 1350 Chiyoda Dr.

This news from the Webster Chamber of Commerce:

At their October monthly meeting, the Webster Chamber honored TYS CPAs, LLP as their November Business of the Month.

TYS manages the accounting needs of their clients and goes beyond tabulation to point out opportunities for business growth and supports them through the process. They developed a ‘TYS Emerge‘ process, specifically for the Construction Industry. TYS also extends a promise to its clients, offering a fixed-rate, guaranteeing results, removing the escalating threat of hourly billing. In addition to serving the Webster Chamber, TYS volunteers at the Jefferson Avenue Elementary School, in Fairport. As he presented the award, Chamber President and CEO Barry Howard said, “TYS Co-Owner Tim Shortsleeve has been very active in the Chamber, assuming leadership roles. Currently, Tim serves on the Webster Chamber Board of Directors as Chair-elect, part of a six-year commitment, and is active on the Personnel Committee. He has also provided educational sessions for our members and visitors.“

Every month, the Webster Chamber of Commerce identifies a member business or organization which has excelled within their industry, given back to the community, and been active in the Chamber to be honored as Business of the Month. In the photo above, Webster Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Carolyn Montanaro (left) presents the November Business of the Month award to TYS partner Tim S. Shortsleeve (center) and Staff Accountant Brenda Zornow (right).

This important information also from the Chamber of Commerce:

Deadlines Approaching for Health Insurance Enrollment for January 1 Start 

The Webster Chamber of Commerce has offered no-fee health insurance enrollment assistance since 1938 and wants the public to be aware of the approaching deadlines to receive health insurance on January 1.

  • December 07 Medicare Annual Enrollment deadline: Medicare recipients have until the deadline to make a plan change for 2024. 
  • December 15: last day for Qualified Health Insurance (Including NYS Marketplace) for new or renewing participants for a January 1st effective date.

Health insurance enrollment is challenging. In addition to deadlines, you have many health insurance carrier options to consider. Plus, each carrier offers different plans to align with individual needs. The Webster Chamber staff will help you through this insurance enrollment process, helping you select the plan that best fits your needs. Chamber membership is not required and you do not need to be a Webster resident. 

To meet the deadlines to start health insurance on January 1 and to select the best-fit health insurance option for you, follow these steps:

  1. Call 585-265-3960 to schedule a virtual or in-person appointment with Chamber staff.
  2. Watch this introductory video.

The Webster CSD has announced the dates for this spring’s school musicals, the theater lovers will want to get them on your calendars.

  • Willink Middle School will present Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo on Feb. 2 and 3
  • Webster Schroeder High School’s production of Catch Me if You Can will be held Feb. 8 to 10
  • Spry Middle School presents Nickelodeon’s The SpongeBob Musical March 8 and 9
  • Webster Thomas High School will stage DreamWorks’ Shrek the Musical from March 21 to 23
  • (this one’s a drama) Webster Schroeder Theater Company will present Little Women from April 25-27

As performance dates near, you can check the Webster CSD website for details … plus I’ll be posting them here on my blog, so stay tuned.

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 11/30/2023)

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Santa is coming to the village on Small Business Saturday

24 Nov

Got a bonus blog for you all today, because I want to remind everyone that Santa himself will be strolling through the Village of Webster on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25.

Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to show our small business owners how much we appreciate them, and to find creative gift ideas it’s hard to find anywhere else. But this year, for the first time, the day’s going to be extra special, because Santa will be in town, walking up and down Main Street and North Ave., checking out some shopping bargains for himself. (I mean, he does have Mrs. Claus and the elves to shop for). He’ll even have one of his elves with him, handing out treats for the kids.

Santa’s plans are to be in the village from 10:30 a.m. to noon, then again from noon to 1:30. So bring the kids, take some photos, and get some Christmas shopping done!

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 11/24/2023)

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Check out this shop on Small Business Saturday

21 Nov

In honor of Small Business Saturday this weekend, I’d like to highlight a small business in the Village of Webster which I haven’t written about recently: Yesterday’s Muse Books.

I first wrote about Yesterday’s Muse in December 2008, shortly after owner Jonathan Smalter opened his bookshop at 32 W. Main St. I remember being thoroughly charmed and impressed by the variety of books and how well organized they were.

If you do some quick math, you’ll notice that Yesterday’s Muse is about to celebrate its 15th anniversary. I thought it was a great reason to revisit this delightful village shop.

Not familiar with Yesterday’s Muse? Jonathan wrote this description:

We carry a wide selection of interesting material in most categories, with particular strength in literature, history and local interest. We also focus as much as possible on visually stunning or unique editions, whether that means attractive bindings, great illustrations, or unusual formats. Our stock is primarily used and antiquarian … but we also carry new stock, especially around the holidays, or when sourced from local authors (e.g., Blair Kenny’s books about the Rochester mob are always in stock, and we are currently the exclusive online seller for all of those).

Jonathan is a member of three prestigious national bookseller organizations — the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America, the Independent Online Booksellers Association and the American Booksellers Association — which all have strict qualifications and codes of ethics. He’s incorporated new technologies into his day-to-day operations, allowing customers to shop online or in-store seamlessly. The store is carefully organized and cataloged for easy browsing, which creates a more relaxed shopping experience. And there’s something for everybody, from the bargain hunter to the seasoned collector.

If you’ve been a regular Yesterday’s Muse customer, you’ve probably noticed that the quality of Jonathan’s offerings has increased steadily, especially in the last few years as he’s acquired some impressive collections.

He continually finds ways to keep his customers happy and well-read. He recommends books all the time, and makes sure those recommendations are always in stock, which sometimes means ordering new books directly from publishers. He works with colleagues around the country to track down quality, affordable copies of his most popular titles. For the holidays, he’ll soon be releasing a holiday catalog, which will some fun non-book items like totes, socks, and advent calendars. And next time you’re in, look for his specials:

  • buy two, get one free for all fiction and children’s books
  • buy three, get one free for all nonfiction titles (equal or lesser value)
  • the $10 and under and $5 and under shelves
  • discounted book bundles that share a common theme

And look for the Yesterday’s Muse table at Roc Holiday Village this year — the first time Jonathan is participating.

After 15 years, Jonathan isn’t planning to go anywhere anytime soon.

I like having a shop in Webster. I grew up here. My wife grew up here… I remember the bookstore that used to be on Main Street during my childhood. I worked in the bookstore that shared a parking lot with Coach in the ’90s and 2000s, and I feel like Webster Village should always have a book shop. … I hope that those who live in and around Webster consider us part of the community, and I certainly appreciate all the support we’ve received over the years, which has come in all sorts of forms.

Yesterday’s Muse Books is located at 32 W. Main Street in the Village of Webster. You’ll want to stop by on Small Business Saturday, because Jonathan will be celebrating his anniversary with cake (first-come, first-served!), 15% off everything all day AND a $15 gift certificate for the first 15 customers (with purchase — one per customer).

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 11/21/2023)

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Webster community mailbag

15 Nov

Here’s a great way to spend a cold almost-winter evening: take in a Webster Thomas High School drama production!

The WTHS Drama Club will present John Buchan’s spy thriller The 39 Steps on the Thomas stage Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nov. 16, 17 and 18, at 7:30 p.m. each night.

The story goes like this: Richard Hannay is a desperate man on the run. The police want him for murder and a web of spies want him dead. It’s a hilarious tale of international intrigue, murder, and mayhem, often described as “Alfred Hitchcock meets Monty Python.”

Cast members include Jaina Brien, Jack Dayton, Evelyn Fellows, Mia Fellows, Brook Hoffer, Veronica Leistman, Bobby LoFaso, Jamie McCarthy, Abigail McNett, Logan Penza, Makayla Richardson, Katie Steele, Ella Vernacotola, and Adriana Zodarecky. They’re supported by crew members Ananya Bobbala, Abigail DeLallo, Sara Gesner, Jocelyn Herrle, Zoey Hryhorenko, Kilian Klawitter, Catherine Magaw, Yogapreetha Pramothkumar, Savannah Riggs, Amelia Snell, Ava Vernacotola, and Riley Weller. 

The show runs November 16, 17, and 18 in the Webster Thomas Auditorium, 800 Five Mile Line Road, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $10, and can be purchased in advance at from HomeTown Ticketing.

Webster NY HOPE has published their November/December wish list, which includes:

  • sugar
  • flour
  • coffee
  • ketchup, mayonnaise and mustard
  • canned beets
  • diapers (size 6)
  • toiletries (soap, shampoo, deoderant, etc.)
  • laundry detergent
  • gently used toddler clothing

Items can be dropped off during regular operating hours, Monday 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesday 3 to 5 p.m. and Thursday 5 to 7 p.m. The offices will be closed Thanksgiving week.

Webster NY HOPE is located at 1450 Ridge Rd.

Next time you’re at the Webster Public Library, make sure to browse the beautiful art on display in the main lobby.

The Webster Art Club’s Fall Show is up and running through Nov. 29. This is also a good chance to think about if you’d like to join this great group of artists. The club is always looking for new members. They meet for Open Art every Wednesday at the Webster Recreation Center from 10 a.m. to noon and have meetings with guest artists and demos on the second Wednesday of each month.

For more information, click here.

The West Webster Fire Department invites community members to help clean up the Lake Rd. memorial honoring fallen WWFD firefighters Lt. Mike Chiapperini and Tomasz Kaczowka, on Saturday Nov. 18 at 9 a.m.

Please bring gloves, weed trimmers, takes and trash bags. The memorial is located on Lake Rd. just past Sandbar Park.

Bernardi & Co. CPA, at 40 Barrett Drive, is hosting two free financial seminars in the coming weeks, designed for individuals and small businesses who could use a little advice.

The first, focusing on Tax Strategies and Managing Debt, will be held on Wednesday November 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. The second, on Saving and Investing, is scheduled for Tuesday Dec. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Both seminars will be held at the Bernardi & Co. offices, and there’s no cost. But please RSVP as space is limited. Email Elena@bernardiCPA.com to reserve your spot. If you have any questions, call 585-217-9393.

A couple of Village events in the coming weeks to tell you about.

The first is a free shredding event on Friday Nov. 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. behind Village Hall at 28 West Main.

This event will be accepting paper only, and paper must be placed in cardboard boxes or paper bags (no totes or bags). Staples do not need to be removed. Limit is five boxes per vehicle.

This is a drive-through event; just drive up behind Village Hall and volunteers will unload the papers from your car.

And here’s your first notice about the annual Webster Winter Wonderland and Parade of Lights celebration!

This year’s holiday fun will take place on Saturday Dec. 2 beginning at 3:30 p.m. On tap this year, are horse-drawn wagon rides, cookie decorating, caroling, and more. The North Pole will return to Gazebo Park with arts and crafts, story hour from the Webster Public Library and hot cocoa. Santa will visit with children in the Village Hall community meeting room so everyone can stay warm.

Then, beginning at 6:30 p.m., the Parade of Lights heads down Main Street, brought to you by the Webster Volunteer Fire Department.

More details to come, but to stay on top of it all, visit the Webster BID website regularly. (Or better yet, sign up for the newsletter!)

And since we’re talking about White Christmas and Santa, here’s a teaser for something very exciting coming up on Small Business Saturday: rumor has it that Santa will be in town, shopping along Main Street and North Ave. Stay tuned for details about when he’ll be out and about!

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 11/15/2023)

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More happy anniversary village business news

14 Nov

Recently I wrote about how My Roommates Closet and Ploty’s Hometown Tavern have just celebrated first anniversaries. Today I add to that happy news with two other Village of Webster businesses which are celebrating their five years in business.

The first is Lala of Webster, celebrating its fifth anniversary on Nov. 16.

Lala of Webster, located at 38 E. Main St., is packed with unique and creative gifts. There’s jewelry and home decor items, baby and pet products, lots of self-care items like soaps, candles, lotions and bath products, and unique inspirational items. This is a must-see shop for anyone shopping in the village. 

Owner Lisa Schlonski is putting together some amazing raffle prizes in honor of her anniversary, including a gift basket valued at $1,000, and lots of other great prizes. Patrons can enter the raffles on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Keep an eye on the Lala Facebook page, because Lisa’s planning a live Facebook event to show off all of the prizes.

The second is The North Bee, located at 27 North Ave. As the name implies, The North Bee is all about honey and beeswax-related products. Owner Amy Stringer has been a beekeeper for about three years and loves pretty much everything about bees. Her shop has all sorts of honeys (like, more than two dozen varieties), of course, plus lots of creative products made from beeswax.

The North Bee opened five years ago on Small Business Saturday, so Amy is timing her celebration for that week and weekend, Nov. 21 through 25. She’s also put together five awesome gift baskets, each valued at over $200 each. Patrons can enter all week, and the winners will be chosen at close of business Saturday (3 p.m.).

Also, on the 25th, patrons will enjoy “sweets and treats” in the kids’ room — cookies from Nina’s Sugar Cookies and chocolates from Laughing Gull Chocolates (but you don’t have to be a kid to partake).

Regular North Bee shoppers will be happy to know that beginning Friday Nov. 24, Amy will be open until 4 p.m. on Fridays, and open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning Sunday Nov. 26th.  Here’s a look inside the shop:

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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 “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 11/14/2023)

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