Tag Archives: Village of Webster

Santa is coming to the village on Small Business Saturday

18 Nov

Even Santa has to shop for Christmas gifts (I mean, think about all those elves, and Mrs. Claus!). And the news I just received from the North Pole is pretty exciting … Santa has chosen to come to the Village of Webster to do his shopping.

On Saturday Nov. 25 — Small Business Saturday — Santa himself will be visiting the Village of Webster, strolling up and down Main Street and North Ave., popping into shops and visiting with business owners and everyone else he passes by on the street. Kids and adults alike are welcome to stop and visit with Santa, chat with him, deliver their wish lists, and of course take lots of photos. Rumor has it he’ll have one of his elves with him handing out treats for the children as they shop.

Santa will be in the village from 10:30 a.m. to noon, and again from 1 to 2:30. So mark your calendars, and watch for Santa 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)

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(posted 11/18/2023)

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News from the Webster Museum

16 Nov

Before I get into details about a couple of interesting new exhibits at the Webster Museum this month, I want to let you all know about a special event honoring veterans, being held Sunday Nov. 19.

It’s called Vietnam, A Time to Listen, A Chat with Ron Gentle. At 2 p.m. Sunday, the museum will welcome US Air Force veteran and Webster resident Ron Gentle, who will share some of his experiences from his time serving in the Vietnam War, a pivotal time in American history. When you’re there, you’ll see Ron’s uniform, along with two others from World War II in a display case right off the main lobby.

Just around the corner from that case is a fascinating new exhibit honoring Webster resident Gary Morgan, who passed away recently leaving many friends, family members and memories.

Gary had collected many of his memories in several binders which he filled with stories about his life and what Webster was like back when he was growing up during World War II. Among them are the time when he and his friends used to ride their bikes down to the old canning factory to interact with the German POWs who had been transported there to provide labor. And the time when a huge four-engine plane buzzed the town repeatedly, flying so low that “you could see the guns sticking out and the airmen inside.” Later he would learn that the pilot was Lt. Alan Hermance, a young Webster man who was just saying goodbye before heading overseas. (Hermance never came home from the war; he went down in the very same B-17 that he flew over the town.)

The museum folks hope that Gary’s friends will visit and take time to read his memories, of going to school, of building cars with his father and his real passion, race car driving.

Alongside the binders are a collection of replicas of Webster buildings and houses that his sister Morgan Retzel had made. They’re incredibly detailed and interesting.

Another new exhibit explores the history of Sawyer’s Hall, which provided a wide variety of entertainment to Webster residents from 1909-1952.

Finally, remember to visit the Museum during Webster’s Winter Wonderland, and vote for your favorite mini Christmas tree during the museum’s annual Festival of Trees. It begins Saturday Dec. 2 and voting runs through Dec. 31. More details to come about this!

The Webster Museum is located at 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster, and is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2 to 4:30. For more information, visit the website, and like them on Facebook.

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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 11/16/2023)

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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)

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(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)

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(posted 11/14/2023)

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November’s historic Site of the Month: the “Schroeder House”

11 Nov

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. In November, that distinction was awarded to the home at 27 Lapham Park, fondly known as the “Schroeder House.”

The home is owned by Karen Sullivan, who lives there with her son Shane Callahan. The 2-1/2 story Victorian home was built in 1900 by Anthony Smith, and stands out thanks in large part to its prominent wrap-around porch. The porch originally featured ornate gingerbread trim (which can be seen in the historical photos below), and sided with wooden clapboard, which has been preserved under the current siding.

The house has changed hands several times over the years, and at one time was owned by Herbert W. Schroeder, who served as Webster schools superintendent from 1959 to 1969, and after whom Webster Schroeder High School was named. The house fell into disrepair in the early 2000s, but was lovingly rescued by Karen Sullivan in 2003. Sullivan has worked tirelessly over the past two decades to bring the house back to its former glory.

photos show the house c. 1905-1910

The house features the original oak hardwood floors, much of the original trim, dual staircases and butler’s pantry. Major improvements include total restoration of the front and back porches, with which Karen had a lot of help from her father, Ray. Karen’s son Shane also restored the summer porch several years ago. A recent full kitchen remodel gives the house a signature modern look while keeping the original character.

Sullivan’s hard work is evident in every corner of the house. Her goal of preserving the history of the “Schroeder House” has always been foremost in her mind while making any changes to the century-old Victorian.

Karen writes, “Over the last twenty years, the journey to restore this beautiful home has been a privilege. I am grateful the Historic Preservation Commission has recognized this property as Site of the Month.”

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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 11/11/2023)

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A new owner and a new look for Ploty’s

9 Nov

There’s a new bar in town … sort of. It’s actually been around for almost six years, but celebrating its first anniversary this weekend.

I’m talking about Ploty’s Hometown Tavern, and everything I said above is accurate, if not confusing. Located at 27 West Main St., in the lower level behind Mozzeroni’s Pizza, Ploty’s originally opened in December 2017, owned by Eric Plotzker and his wife Kourtney. For a long time, the bar was one of my favorite hangouts. My friends and I would often meet there, especially on evenings when there was live music.

But over the years, the bar’s hometown atmosphere seemed to change from homey to … unpleasant. I can’t speak for everyone, but I became uncomfortable with the kind of patrons the bar was attracting, the conversations I was hearing around me, and the confrontational political statements hanging throughout the bar. After a while, I just stopped going.

Then I heard that last November, Eric had sold the bar to Charlene Napoletano, one of his bartenders. Curious to see if things had changed under the new ownership, I stopped in to check it out, and was very pleased with what I saw.

The “new” Ploty’s has still got the dart boards, digital jukebox and the large-screen TVs featuring sports most of the day. But the changes that Charlene HAS introduced have brought the vibe back to what Eric had originally envisioned: a comfortable, welcoming local tavern.

Charlene calls her pub a “boujie dive bar.” The “boujie” part comes from how she’s dressed it up with a brighter paint job, cozy lounge area, framed photos of entertainers, more pleasant restrooms, much nicer patio space and mixed drink specials. The “dive bar” part? Well, Ploty’s is still in a basement.

But even the drink selections have been upgraded. Charlene has doubled the number of beers on the menu, added some hard seltzers, a lot more liquors, and seven different wines.

On my recommendation, our Barry’s Runners settled there several weeks ago after our very first post-Barry’s-pub run. Since Barry’s has closed, we begin our runs at the gazebo on North Ave., and need a spot to socialize and raise a pint afterwards. Ploty’s is just steps away from the gazebo, so that was our first choice. The runners all loved the atmosphere, the outdoor patio, the cheap beer prices, and especially the free pizza Charlene had ordered from Mozzeroni’s. It’s become one of our favorite post-run spots.

So if you haven’t checked out Ploty’s recently, I recommend you stop in. This weekend would be a good time to do that. To celebrate the anniversary, from 9 p.m. to midnight on Friday Nov. 10 and Saturday Nov. 11, Charlene is offering a ONE-year anniversary special: buy ONE domestic draft or well cocktail, and get ONE free.

And by the way, don’t be worried if the name soon changes. Sometime in the near future, Charlene hopes to rechristen the bar “Charzbar,” to really put her stamp on it. But the same welcoming atmosphere will not be changing.

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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 11/9/2023)

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Happy Anniversary My Roommates Closet!

6 Nov

Keeping a small business afloat is always a challenge, but the first year is always the hardest. So it’s great to see that one of our village’s newest businesses, My Roommates Closet, has just celebrated its first anniversary.

My Roommates Closet is located at 19 East Main St. in the Village of Webster, next door to the Village Quilt Shoppe. It’s owned by 24-year old Nicole Iorio, a recent St. John Fisher graduate with a degree in business marketing. Her vision from day one was to share her love of clothing and fashion with women of all ages, help them discover new and different styles to add to their closets and to find that “missing piece” they’ve been looking for. (Click here to read the blog I wrote about the shop last year.)

By the look of things, she’s accomplished those goals — and more. She’s expanded her inventory with plenty of dressy and day-to-day styles for both younger and (a little bit) older women. She’s partnered with other small business owners to sell some of their products, like candles, jewelry and specialty clothing. And she’s developed a regular clientele, both online and in store.

Nicole Iorio

No one is more surprised by the boutique’s success than Nicole herself. Thinking back to the anniversary party she had on Oct. 24, she remembers that it felt “surreal.”

“It doesn’t feel like it’s been a year,” she said. “I only feel like I’ve been doing it for three months. It’s kind of like impostor syndrome. It hasn’t hit me yet. Maybe once I’m able to hire someone, that’s when its gonna be like I’m a legit business.”

But she was perhaps most surprised and delighted by how quickly and warmly she was welcomed by the village community. It was a big relief, given how unsure she was of running her first business, in a town which she didn’t know very well.

“I’m 24. I’ve never done anything like this before,” she said. “It was really nerve-wracking. I feel the businesses here (in the village) have been here for a while, and then I came in.” But, “I was welcomed with open arms.”

“What surprised me the most is how close-knit the businesses are here. When I first opened I had people come in and introduce themselves. Everyone was so nice and they continue to be super nice. … Just the coolest thing ever meeting other small business owners that I’m now friends with.” 

“I’m feeling like I’m part of the community.”

Now, at the start of her second year in business, Nicole is determined to give back to the community which has welcomed her so warmly. From Nov. 8 through 19 she’ll be collecting items for Willow Domestic Violence Center in Rochester. Anyone interested in helping out can choose an item (or several) from the wish list below, and drop it off at My Roommates Closet during regular business hours. Nicole herself will be donating several items from her old inventory (“I would rather donate it than throw it out”), and will be taking all of the donations downtown just before Thanksgiving.

She’s already planning another donation drive of some kind for December. “I really want to do something and give back and get the community involved,” she said, “and now I have that community where I can.”

My Roommates Closet is located at 19 East Main St. in the Village of Webster. The shop is open Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday noon to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.

(posted 11/6/2023)

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Webster community mailbag

27 Oct

I’m going to head-up today’s mailbag with a few events which I haven’t mentioned in any recent posting, including this brand new one I only just learned about this week.

Webster Schroeder High School’s National Honor Society will be hosting a Trunk or Treat at the school on Sunday Oct. 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. The NHS kids promise candy, popcorn, cotton candy and creative costumes. They’ll also be accepting donations for the Pirate Toy Fund, so if you can help, bring a new, unwrapped toy to the event.

Webster Schroeder High School is located at 875 Ridge Rd. The Trunk or Treat will be held in the GOAL parking lot, which is on your right as you approach the Schroeder main entrance from Ridge.

Veterans and active-duty service personnel are invited to a free Veterans Day spaghetti dinner in appreciation for their service.
 
The dinner will take place Thursday, Nov. 9 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Spry Middle School, 119 South Avenue. Reservations are required, so attendees are asked to call the school at (585) 216-0093 to reserve seats. If you’d rather pick up a meal and not eat at the school, you can also call to reserve a takeout order.
 
The dinner includes spaghetti, salad, bread, and dessert. Attendees and pickup orders are asked to enter the school’s back parking lot off of Rt. 250, behind the cafetorium.

The next meeting of The Visionaries will be held on Wednesday Nov. 1 at 10:30 a.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.

The Visionaries is a support group for community members who struggle with vision issues — macular degeneration, glaucoma, dry eye, or others. Members share their interests and opportunities with others, encouraging those with visual impairment to get the most out of their lives.

The Visionaries began in 2000, and at one time boasted as many as 80 members. In addition to regular monthly meetings, the group has taken outings to attractions like the Memorial Art Gallery, Geva Theatre, and Pike Stained Glass Studio. For their December 6 meeting, the group will return to the Memorial Art Gallery and in January will meet at the Webster Public Library.

There’s no need to register for any meeting, just come by and join in. For more information on The Visionaries, contact Ed Wilkonski at (585) 265-4167 or email wingstwofly@rochester.rr.com.

From the Webster Public Library, located in Webster Plaza, 980 Ridge Rd.:

  • The library will be closed on Friday Nov. 10 for staff training, and will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday Nov. 22 for the Thanksgiving holiday.
  • The Caps for Sale fundraiser is coming up Thursday Nov. 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Hats will be $10 for children’s sizes and $15 for adult sizes and all proceeds benefit the Webster Public Library programs.
  • Also on Saturday Nov. 11, the library will hold their annual Vintage and Collectible Book Sale from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Book prices will start at $8 and prices are firm.
  • November 22 marks the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. On Wednesday Nov. 15, MCC history professor Mark Sample tells the story of that tragic day and discuss some of the conspiracy theories. The hour-long program begins at 6:30 p.m. Registration is required.
  • The next Webster Business Spotlight program will focus on Schutt’s Apple Mill, on Thursday Nov. 9 from 1 to 2 p.m. Please register here.
  • The Webster Art Club Fall Show is going on right now at the library, through the end of November. This group meets for Open Art every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Webster Recreation Center and has meetings with guest artists and demos on the second Wednesday of each month. New members are always welcome. For more information click here.

The next benefit spaghetti dinner at the Masonic Lodge is Friday Nov. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the lodge, 30 Orchard Street.

This month’s dinner will benefit the Webster Thomas Titans Cheerleaders organization. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children. You can eat in or take it to go. Call (585) 872-3500 with questions.

The Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters will host an Indoor Arts/Crafts Sale at the Webster Recreation Center, Saturday Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 30 vendors will be there. Proceeds will benefit WSPS, a non-profit organization which provides Webster seniors with rides to their medical-related appointments.

The West Webster Fire Department invites community members to help clean up the Lake Rd. memorial honoring fallen WWFD firefighters Lt. Mike Chiapperino 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.

I won’t go into much detail about any of these following events since I’ve written about them before, so if you want to find out more about any of them, check out the flyers below or just search for it on the blog.

  • DEA Drug take-back Saturday Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Justice Court, 1002 Ridge Rd.
  • Family Scavenger Hunt, Saturday Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Webster Recreation Center
  • Santa’s Garage Sale at St. Martin Lutheran Church, 813 Bay Rd., from Nov. 2 to 4.
  • A Concert Apparel and Coat event, Sat. Oct. 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.
  • Friends of Webster Trails’ annual Hot Cocoa Hike, Saturday Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. at Gosnell Big Woods Preserve.
  • Pumpkins on Parade, Saturday Oct, 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.
  • The Village of Webster’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, Saturday Oct. 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • The All in For Comfort Care Casino Night, Friday Nov 3 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at The Lodge at Shadow Hill in Ontario.
  • The Webster BID’s annual Bourbon Bash, Saturday Nov. 4 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Harmony House.

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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 10/27/2023)

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Two family fun Halloween events this Saturday

25 Oct

As we get closer to Halloween, I know that there are SO MANY events coming down the pike that you want to make sure your kids have a chance to check out. Make sure these two, happening this coming Saturday Oct. 28, are atop your list.

The first is the Village of Webster’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, an annual tradition in the village which draws thousands of kids and adults to walk through the streets and trick-or-treat dozens of village businesses.

The day begins with a costume contest at Village Hall from 11 to 11:30 a.m., followed by the Trail from 11:30 to 2:30. There’s a pet costume contest as well (a judge will be walking along Main St. keeping an eye out for contestants!). The Webster Museum will have special treats, the Webster Volunteer Fire Department will host their open house with displays, fire hats and equipment for the kids to explore, and there’ll be wagon rides behind Gazebo Park.

And don’t forget to take the short side trip down Lapham Park to visit the Webster Museum, where the folks there are cooking up some special events for the kids.

And of course, I’ll be out there with my camera trying to take as many photos of kids (and adults) in costume as possible, so watch for me. I especially love to see entire families dress up together. Moms and dads often have some of the most creative costumes.

Saturday evening, Pumpkins on Parade returns to the Webster Recreation Center from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

This is a super fun family event where participants stroll along the mile-long Chiyoda Trail behind the Rec Center, 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. (Here’s the Facebook event page for more information.)

To make this event the success it always is, the Rec Center needs a LOT of jack-o-lanterns. So grab some pumpkins today or tomorrow and get carving! You can drop off your finished creations on the trailer parked outside the Rec Center (1350 Chiyoda Dr.) on Friday Oct, 27 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or Saturday Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Multiple pumpkins are both welcomed and encouraged. Each pumpkin gets a raffle ticket for the chance to win a Fall Themed Raffle Basket (be sure to stop inside the Rec Center after dropping off your pumpkin to fill out a ticket!)

Once again, I’ll be there with my camera, so keep an eye out for me. And have FUN!

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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 10/25/2023)

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Webster Baptist Church memorial bricks now in place thanks to Eagle Scout candidate

20 Oct

The east-side entrance to the Webster Baptist Church on South Ave. is getting a bit of an upgrade, thanks to the efforts of Eagle Scout candidate Hunter Kurosawa.

For several days over the last week or so, Hunter and his team of adult and Troop 113 Scout volunteers have been installing bricks along the drainage ditch lining the side of the church building. They’ve already worked almost 14 hours over two long days and are planning at least one more before the project is finished.

There are about 200 bricks in all, but 13 of them are rather special; individually-engraved memorial bricks, purchased by Webster Baptist Church parishioners in memory of loved ones.

Hunter Kurosawa with the memorial bricks
Some of Hunter’s helpers mix concrete for the retaining wall

Hunter landed on this particular project after having little luck with other organizations. He wrote,

I was looking for an Eagle Project at the zoo, through NEQALS, and through Webster Trails. … Then I got an email from my Scoutmaster saying (Church Moderator Diana) Marchner had a project at the Webster Baptist Church. She had contacted the Scout Advisor that I am using. 

I was so happy to have a project. We went to meet her to talk about what she was looking for and I was really excited about the project. Mrs. Marchner was so nice and so happy to find someone to take on the project. It is a lot of new skills for me to learn and it is so nice to be working with Mrs. Marchner.  

Apparently Marchner feels the same way.

“I can’t tell you how impressed I am with this young man … and Scout advisors,” she wrote. “I am totally amazed at how professional and dedicated to perfection they are. I really lucked out having this Eagle Scout candidate.”

The entire project has been … well, a project.

Before even placing the bricks, the site had to be dug out, cleared of stones and leveled with gravel. Some of the stones have to be cut to size before they’re all set in place with polymeric sand and pitched at a two-degree angle to allow for water runoff.

they are using Polymeric Sand so that they can be replaced as the bricks get engraved.  Also Polymeric Sand helps in deterring the growth of weeds between the bricks. 

There have been several challenges to overcome along the way. After digging out the site, his team discovered a plastic pipe they had to remove, and found an electrical conduit needed replacing to bring it up to code. Then they had to build a retaining wall to hold the bricks in on the south edge. All before they could even begin to lay the bricks.

But overcoming obstacles is all part of completing a successful Eagle Scout project. (And learning new things like how to mix concrete and build a retaining wall.)

The memorial bricks program is part of an ongoing fundraising initiative by the 166-year old Webster Baptist Church to raise money for needed repairs and upgrades. Bricks are still available; they cost $150 each (but larger donations are more than welcome) and they can be personally inscribed. If enough bricks are purchased, the hope is to use them to build a new sidewalk leading to the front door. It’s estimated that would take about 1,500 bricks.

You might say that Hunter Kurosawa is helping the Webster Baptist Church take a step towards maintaining a strong faith community.

* * *

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(posted 10/20/2023)

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