You know your dad is the best. So how ’bout you try to win a great prize for him in the Webster Comfort Care Home’s Father’s Day Raffle?
Tickets are now available for the raffle, which runs through Sunday, June 14. And the grand prize “Thrill of the Grill” bundle, is amazing, starting with a 28-inch Blackstone grill. Plus, the lucky dad will receive:
• Two camp chairs • Four-pack of seasonings & spice rubs from The Spice Lab • Three Dinosaur BBQ sauces • Headlamp • Coleman 50-quart rolling cooler • Life is Good Smashed Burger set
Basically, your dad could host the best tailgate party in the neighborhood.
Tickets are one for $25, three for $30 and six for $100. Click here to get yours.
***
Webster Comfort Care Home, located at the corner of Holt and Klem roads, provides free hospice care to the terminally ill of our Webster community. The dedicated staff members and volunteers there uphold the dignity and ease the suffering of its residents, while supporting their loved ones in a warm, home-like atmosphere. It’s an amazing agency that does great things for families experiencing the some of the most difficult times of their lives.
* * *
(posted 5/17/2026)
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).
It’s a sure sign of spring when the Friends of Webster Trails (FWT) volunteers start ramping up their trail maintenance efforts. I learned all about them in the most recent Friends newsletter, which popped up in my email box the other day, my quarterly reminder of how lucky we are to have this organization in our community.
A large portion of the spring newsletter reviewed last year’s improvements to the Hojack Trail, the five-mile long former railroad bed that stretches from Lake Rd. at Forest Lawn to Phillips Rd. Those efforts included adding drainage and resurfacing the entire stretch between Holt and Drumm roads. It caused a little bit of disruption when portions of the trail had to be closed, but the results are fantastic. The trail has been busy all winter with walkers, runners, bikers, and cross-country skiers enjoying the new surface and improved drainage.
The work isn’t done quite yet, though. Later this spring, the Friends will be installing signage at each road crossing, and interpretive signs highlighting the history and the habitat of the trail. They’ll also be adding benches and planting scores of small trees and shrubs. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is being planned for later this summer, to officially reintroduce the new, improved Hojack to the community.
Improvements to the Hojack Trail were just a small part of what the Friends of Webster Trails accomplished last year, including:
Painting the kiosk at the Bird Sactuary Trail, and adding a map and history panels;
Adding an extension to the Herman Rd. Forever Wild Forest Green Trail;
Blazing a new side trail at the John Ungar and Michael Johnson Trails;
Adding a bridge at Vosburg Hollow (thank you Eagle Scout Jacob Bowen), connecting that trail from the Hojack to Gosnell Big Woods; and much more.
Plans for this spring and summer are no less ambitious. Upcoming projects include improving the Red, Blue and Green Trails at Herman Rd. Forever Wild Forest; adding a new boardwalk and walking stick station to State Rd. Nature Preserve; keeping the trails free from downed trees; and many more. And of course, the Friends’ ReTree volunteers will continue their incredible work, raising and planting a variety of native trees.
We have an amazing trail system in our town, and I hope you can see now that the Friends of Webster Trails are the folks to thank for that. These dedicated volunteers are committed to planning, maintaining, and promoting our trails, and advocating for the preservation of the natural character of Webster’s open spaces.
Our trails provide close, easy, and free opportunities for exercise and to spend time in nature for people of all ages. If you’re a regular user of any of Webster’s 28 miles of trails, please consider showing them some love by becoming a member of the Friends. It doesn’t cost much (really, just $15 for an individual or $20 for a family) and the funds go directly to making our trail system better for everyone to enjoy.
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).
If you haven’t seen it yet, you might want to pick up this month’s edition of 55 Plus magazine, which is on newsstands now. Inside (and promo’d on the cover) is a three-page article all about our very own Denise Baller and her dance school, Dancing With Denise.
The article, written and photographed by Linda Quinlan, spans more than 40 years. It tells how Denise began her studio right out of high school in rented space in Irondequoit, eventually purchased her own studio on Gravel Rd., found creative ways to survive through the pandemic, and today manages a very busy and very dynamic dance class schedule.
Quinlan does a nice job capturing the unique blend of programs Denise offers for children and adults of all ages. The article highlights both the offerings at her studio and her ever-expanding repertoire of yoga, line dancing, barre, and Zumba classes held throughout the community. However, if you ask me, the more important story is hidden between the lines: Denise’s personal growth as both a teacher and a dedicated community advocate.
What started as “just” a dance school in a small studio has branched out beyond its walls into the community in heartwarming ways. Like holding a canned-food drive every Thanksgiving. And having her young dancers “adopt” an elder during the holidays and purchase small gifts for them. And her “Leaps of Love” program, which provides scholarships for children in need so they can participate in dance. It’s all part of Denise’s goal to “bring a little sunshine into the world” as often as she can.
Denise estimates she’s taught thousands of students through her dance career. And anyone who knows her gets the sense that she’s only just begun.
You can read the whole story in the May/June edition of 55 Plus, which is available on the Wegmans newsstand at no cost. You can also log onto the 55 Plus website and read the article online.
By the way, here’s a great chance to see Denise’s dancers in action: this year’s end-of-season dance recital will take place on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 10 a.m., at Eastridge High School on East Ridge Rd. in Irondequoit. Everyone is invited, and no tickets are necessary.
This year’s recital — the school’s 41st — is called “Dancing With Denise Goes on an Adventure!” It’ll be about two hours long, and feature dancers from ages two to adult. There’s even a special dance where the girls dance with their daddies, and a featured dance by Denise’s Buddies class, where individuals with special needs dance alongside their buddies.
There’s a reception afterwards, so it sounds like just a wonderful, fun evening.
* * *
(posted 5/15/2026)
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).
Are you one of those people who head to the Webster Public Library once or (several) times a week to borrow oodles of books? Do you go to the informative talks and travelogues? Are you and your kids regular attendees at family events and story hours? And if so, do you have any suggestions as to how the library folks can make these services even better?
The library would like to know your thoughts. Through August 1, they’re asking library patrons to fill out a quick survey about library spaces and services. Your answers will help them figure out which spaces and services people are really happy with right now, and which ones might need improvement. Basically, you’re going to help them decide how best to spend their limited funds.
It’s a really quick survey, and it asks questions like, “Rank the spaces you use most often” (such as community room, computer area, teen lounge), and “Rank the services you use most often” (such as borrowing books, using Libby, events for teens). It takes about five minutes, and aside from asking your gender and age for statistical purposes, you can fill it out anonymously.
BUT if you would like a chance to win a library swag bag, make sure to include your email address at the end.
There are a few ways you can access the form. First, try this Microsoft form. But if that doesn’t work on your browser, click through to the library webpage here, where you’ll find a link which should work. The survey will be available through August 1.
* * *
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).
Another SparX season is in the books! The 2026 competition season has officially ended, and our One Webster team made our town proud once again through their skill, teamwork, problem-solving, and sportsmanship.
Here’s a great round-up of the season from Tricia Isham, one of the team’s parent mentors:
* * *
Each January, FIRST® Robotics Competition presents high school teams with a new engineering challenge that requires the design, programming, and construction of industrial-sized robots for alliance-based competitive play. Guided by mentors throughout the season, students develop technical, engineering, and problem-solving skills while strengthening teamwork, leadership, and communication abilities. In addition to competition, teams pursue fundraising efforts, engage in community outreach, and promote broader appreciation for STEM education.
Webster Schroeder and Thomas High Schools Team 1126 SparX Robotics, founded in the 2002-2003 competition year, continues to build on over two decades of innovation and competitive excellence. With 24 competition seasons under our belt, we have participated in 52 events and earned 30 awards, an achievement that reflects the dedication, resilience, and growth of our team year after year.
Our 2026 season began at the Finger Lakes Regional, held March 11–14 at the Gordon Field House at RIT during Week 2 of competition. Competing against 55 teams, SparX Robotics finished with a strong 7-3-0 record in qualification matches, ranking 14th overall. The team advanced into the double elimination bracket and battled through nine matches before being eliminated in Round 4. Notably, the team maintained a clean record with zero disqualifications, demonstrating both strong performance and disciplined play.
Like many teams competing early in the season, we took the opportunity between events to significantly improve our robot. This effort resulted in a rebuilt machine we named “Reboot,” reflecting both the technical upgrades and the renewed momentum of our team.
That work paid off at the New York Tech Valley Regional, held April 14–18 at MVP Arena in Albany during Week 7, an event that hosted around 60 teams. Competing with “Reboot,” SparX Robotics once again delivered a strong performance, finishing qualification matches with an 8-3-0 record and earning the 14th seed. The team advanced deep into the double elimination bracket, competing in eight playoff matches before being eliminated just prior to the final rounds. Throughout the competition, SparX maintained a perfect record of zero disqualifications.
Across both competitions, SparX Robotics demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and steady growth. The transition to “Reboot” exemplifies our team’s ability to learn quickly, iterate effectively, and return stronger—qualities that will continue to drive our success in future seasons.If you want to get involved as a mentor or sponsor, or donate to our team (robots can cost $20,000 or more to build), or if you know of a Webster Central High School student who would like to join the team, please contact david_schenk@webstercsd.org or keith_karnisky@webstercsd.org. If your student wants to join, we can find a spot for them and their interests!
* * *
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).
Every month at the Webster Chamber of Commerce‘s breakfast meeting, one of the member businesses is singled out as “Business of the Month.” This special recognition honors member businesses for their significant contributions to the Webster community, community involvement, and active participation in Chamber events.
I always enjoy finding out who’s chosen every month, and I’m pleased to highlight each business in my blog. But May’s honoree means more to me than most, because I consider the Wreaths Across America one of Webster’s most outstanding non-profit organizations, and the force behind it all — Cherie Wood — a good friend.
Here’s what Dan Dunn, from the Chamber of Commerce’s Events and Honors Committee, read as he presented the award:
Today’s business of the month is a little different, but in the best possible way. We’re recognizing Wreaths Across America — Webster, New York, an organization that reminds us what service to a community really looks like.
Wreaths Across America started back in 1992 with a simple idea: honor and remember our veterans. Here in Webster, that mission took root in 2021 thanks to Cherie Wood, who wanted to honor her father’s service in World War II. What started with 600 wreaths at one cemetery has grown into honoring 2,500 fallen veterans across five Webster cemeteries. That doesn’t happen by accident; that happens because someone refuses to let people be forgotten.
The message is powerful: We die twice — once when we pass, and again when our name is spoken for the last time, Every wreath placed means a name is said out loud. Someone is remembered. That matters. And here’s what really stands out: this is entirely community-driven. No government funding,. Every wreath is sponsored by individuals and businesses, year after year. That’s 2,500 acts of generosity, every single year.
Cherie may call herself a volunteer, but she’s leading something much bigger. She supports active-duty families, works with Gold Star families, helps veterans find resources, and stands in honor at services, making sure families know their loved ones will never be forgotten. Then there’s Wreath Day. After the ceremony, up to 1,000 people from our community come out to place wreaths, It’s one of those moments that reminds you what a community can be when people show up for something bigger than themselves.
Cherie is also involved with … ROC Veterans, the Webster Garlic Fest, the town’s 250th celebration, and even serves as Historian for Webster Union Cemetery. She’s not just preserving history — she’s actively shaping it.
One moment says it all: a Vietnam veteran told her last year that placing a wreath was the first time in 60 years that he felt proud of his service. Think about that for a second. That’s the impact.
So today, we’re not just recognizing an organization. We’re recognizing purpose, commitment, and what it looks like to truly give back.
When Dan finished the presentation, every single business person in the room stood to give Cherie Wood a standing ovation. I have never seen that happen before.
* * *
(posted 5/9/2026)
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).
This is always a great time to get together with friends and stroll the streets of the Village of Webster, popping into businesses and sampling so. much. wine. and lots of great snacks. Tickets are $23.18 (including the Eventbrite fee) and are available online only. You’ll need to register ahead of time (click here), and you’ll be provided with a digital ticket which you can present on your phone or print.
This event always sells out, so if you think you want to attend get your tickets soon.
Event check-in will be atAnnette’s Restaurant, (27 West Main St.). PLEASE have your ticket ready and make sure you have your ID, because you will not be allowed to proceed without showing it. At check-in, you’ll receive your souvenir wine glass and a map of the stops. From there, feel free to start wherever you’d like.
The Wine Walks are brought to you by the Webster Business Improvement District (BID). They haven’t published a preview of this stops yet, but you can check the website for updates.
Remember, participants MUST be 21+ and you MUST have your ID.
* * *
(posted 5/8/2026)
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).
Webster’s R.L. Thomas High School Class of 1976 has announced plans for their 50th reunion, and the organizing committee could use some help tracking down some of their classmates.
The reunion has been scheduled for the weekend of September 18 to 20, 2026, featuring three days of events including morning and evening activities, informal gatherings, a school tour, and more.
Here are the highlights:
Friday, September 18:
The celebration kicks off with an informal gathering of R.L. Thomas and H.W. Schroeder Class of 1976 graduates at 7:30 p.m. at Flaherty’s Three Flags Restaurant, 1200 Bay Rd. (owned by classmate Terry Flaherty).
Saturday, September 19:
Continental breakfast at 9:30 a.m. followed by a walk through the halls of Webster Thomas High School (formerly R.L. Thomas), a chance to revisit old memories and see how the school has changed over the last 50 years.
At 7:30 p.m. that evening, plans are for a potential Fireworks Cruise on the Erie Canal or an informal gathering at the White House at Webster Park. More details to follow.
Sunday, September 20:
From 3 to 9 p.m., the formal R.L. Thomas 50th Reunion will occur at the Damascus Shrine Center, 979 Bay Road, Webster. Catered by Charlie’s Restaurant (owned by classmate Jeff Reidel), the picnic will feature classic favorites including hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, salads, and desserts. Soft drinks will be provided, and a cash bar will be available. Music will be provided by classmate Jeff Engbrecht, who will DJ all our favorites from the 1960s and 1970s. The event will also include a photo booth and a full group photo.
The first round of official invitations will be sent out in the next few weeks to everyone the committee has been able to locate to date. But there’s a handful of classmates they don’t know about. If you can provide any contact information for any of the following please email Cathy Miles Slocum at cslocum50@gmail.com:
* * *
(posted 5/7/2026)
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).
Hot on the heels of yesterday’s blog about Webster Schroeder’s NYC Bound contestants, here’s more great news from our school district.
Congratulations to Greg Pittman and Meghann Piwko, this year’s recipients of the prestigious Oak Tree Award, recognizing outstanding excellence and dedication in teaching.
Piwko, the secondary level honoree, is a sixth-grade literacy teacher at Spry Middle School. She was nominated by both a former student and a building colleague. She’s recognized for radiating genuine positivity and defining the heart of her school through her exemplary dedication to her students, their families, and the district.
Highlighting her profound influence, nominators wrote that “Mrs. Piwko gracefully wears many hats, but I have always found her to be an invested, approachable, and knowledgeable educator.” They observed that “she creates an environment where students feel seen, safe, and truly ready to learn,” emphasizing that “she is an educator who understands that while test scores measure progress, it is her devotion to the human being behind the desk that truly changes lives.” Her impact extends into the community as well; as one nominator pointed out, “she organized the 9/11 ceremony by choosing students to read speeches in order to increase awareness of what happened that day and to honor local first responders for their contributions to our community.”
Pittman, the elementary level honoree, is a fourth-grade teacher at Schlegel Elementary School. Known for his collaborative spirit and proven leadership, he is celebrated for his commitment to equity and student growth. Colleagues and nominators (including two of his students’ parents) praised his work, writing that “the lasting impact of his teaching is evident in the excitement and enthusiasm former students show when they see him.” They described him as “an extraordinary educator who makes learning fun and engaging for his students,” adding that “he truly goes above and beyond in creating a positive rapport with his students and families.” (He’s pictured here with his wife Debbie.)
On April 24, representatives from the Webster Teachers Association (WTA) and the Webster Central PTSA, joined by school and district administrators, surprised Pittman and Piwko in their classrooms to share the exciting news. During the surprise visits, the winners were presented with their awards, flowers, and a cookie cake to celebrate their achievements. Both educators will be officially recognized and presented with their plaques at the upcoming Board of Education meeting on May 5.
The Oak Tree Award is presented annually by the WTA and the Webster Central PTSA as a way to acknowledge excellence in teaching in the district at the elementary and secondary levels. This year’s Oak Tree Committee received 60 nominations submitted by students, parents of current and former students, and education colleagues. All of the nominees demonstrated outstanding excellence in teaching and showed unwavering dedication to supporting students in achieving their full potential. In addition, they consistently contributed to their local communities and the Webster CSD. Congratulations to Pittman, Piwko and all of the nominees.
* * *
(posted 5/6/2026)
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).
May is a pretty neat month. After a cold, gray winter, we’re finally getting some warm temperatures, sunshine and flowers. But May is particularly special for the folks at the Webster Museum, who are commemorating National Historic Preservation Month, a time to swap out old exhibits for new, and to offer some special programs.
During Historic Preservation Month, the museum honors Webster’s architectural legacy and the oral traditions that illuminate our shared past. A highlight of this month is the presentation of commemorative plaques, recognizing excellence in the preservation of historic residences, outbuildings, and public landmarks.
The plaque program grew out of a survey of historic properties which a small group of museum volunteers tackled more than 20 years ago. They were especially looking for homes built before 1902 which answered the question, “Would the original owners recognize the property?” In the years since the program began, the museum has presented more than 80 plaques to the Webster properties which have maintained their historical integrity. They’re kind of a thank you from the Town of Webster and the Webster Museum for maintaining the integrity of the property.
Later this month, the museum’s Historic Properties Committee will present this year’s plaque to the home at 121 East Main St. in the Village of Webster (at the corner of Dunning). The majestic American Foursquare-style home was built in 1913 by Dr. William Stanton, and several reminders of his early practice can still be seen inside, including the waiting room, operating room and the basement laboratory. For the past three generations, the Swingly family has lived in the home and maintained its original character. They recently decided to sell the architectural gem, however, which will now be cared for by its new owners, Cory and Christy Boyer.
So this month, take the scenic route. As you travel through our town and village, take a moment to notice the historic landmarks that define our everyday landscape. And if you’d really like to learn more about Webster’s fascinating history, stop by the Webster Museum. It’s located at 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster. It’s open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2 to 4:30 p.m.
* * *
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).
I feature the people and places and events that make Webster the wonderful community it is — and throw in some totally-not-Webster-related personal ramblings every once in a while as well.
I love it when readers send me news about the great things happening in their schools or the community, so please email me anytime at missyblog@gmail.com
webster on the web 