Tag Archives: Webster NY

Folk music has found a home in the Village of Webster

20 Feb

Anyone familiar with the Village of Webster probably knows by now that our corner pub, Barry’s Old School Irish, is THE place to find authentic Irish music. Fewer people realize, however, that every weekend Barry’s is also home to the best folk music in town, performed by the Webster Saturday Folk Jam.

Stop into Barry’s Old School Irish any Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. and you’ll find a group of folk musicians circled around tables in the bakery side of the pub. They’re mostly playing guitars, with an occasional mandolin, banjo, bass or ukulele joining the mix. But they’re all playing, and they’re all singing, jamming to tunes we all know and filling the pub with beautiful music.

The Webster Saturday Folk Jam was established just over five years ago by Webster resident Dave Wyble, who’s led the weekly sessions since day one. He was inspired by a similar group hosted by the Golden Link Folk Singing Society, which has been holding Tuesday-night “sing-arounds” for more than 50 years.

Wyble, a self-described Golden Link “lurker” and folk musician himself (he and his wife Patty have their own duo, Doctor’s Orders), liked the idea of bringing more music to the pub. At the same time, he added, hosting a weekly jam would help him improve his own musical skills, learn more about folk music, and share that knowledge with others.

The Webster Saturday Folk Jams, however, have always been different in one big way from the sing-arounds which inspired them.

The Golden Link philosophy focuses as much on the history of the music as the music itself, Wyble explained. “It’s more about the culture of folk music, what folk music has brought to the culture in addition to the actual tunes.”  

“Their focus is more on keeping alive the folk tradition,” he added. “When you sing a song (at the sing-arounds) you’re more or less expected to introduce it in some way,” telling of its history or where you learned it, before playing the song for the assembled musicians. Sometimes others will play along, but mostly everyone else just sits back and listens. 

It’s not unusual for up to 25 musicians to join the sing-arounds, which mean that usually there’s only enough time for each musician to perform once. Wyble wanted his Webster Saturday Folk Jam sessions to offer more playing opportunities than that.

“I wanted a new form of group where all in attendance had the opportunity to play along if they so desired,” he said. To facilitate that, everyone works from the same two songbooks, Rise Up Singing and Rise Again. That way, everyone has the chords and lyrics in front of them for every song played.

Between them, the books have about 2500 songs, and they’re not all what you might consider “folk classics.” For sure, folkies like Pete Seeger, Peter Paul & Mary and Woodie Guthrie are well represented. But you’ll also find Jason Mraz, Mumford & Sons, Ed Sheeran and Green Day. There’s even a whole chapter called “Millenial Songs.”

Working from common songbooks also makes it easy for anyone in the listening crowd to join in.

“If someone comes along and looks interested,” Wyble said, “I will hand them a book and say, ‘Here, pick one of these and we’ll do our best to play it with you. … I might not know the song, but if you can sing it and I’ve got the chords in front of me, I will play it for you.'” 

“That’s the kind of inclusivity that we’ve always tried to maintain here. Make it so that it’s a group environment. Because folk music by its definition is the music that the folk sing,” a description he attributes to Pete Seeger.  

The group was successful from the very beginning, drawing musicians from all over the area, including several Golden Link board members. The first session, held on January 7, 2017, attracted nine musicians, most of whom still attend regularly. Since then, the circle might have as few as four or five, whereas other weeks as many as a dozen musicians and their instruments have had to squeeze into the bakery corner.

The pandemic didn’t even slow them down too much.

Like everything else, the Webster Saturday Folk Jams took a big hit from COVID. The sessions moved to Zoom for several months when the pandemic began, then returned in-person for a few months over the summer until Delta and Omicron drove them back online.

In-person sessions have returned to the pub again, however. For two hours last Saturday, Barry’s Old School Irish was once again filled with folk harmonies, getting toes tapping and the pub singing.

Being part of the crowd was kind of like sitting around a campfire with good friends. And that’s exactly what the Webster Saturday Folk Jam is all about.

Click here to find out more about the Webster Saturday Folk Jam, or better yet, stop by Barry’s Old School Irish any Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. to see what it’s all about. Bring your voice, bring an instrument, or just bring your love of folk music. You’ll be welcome no matter what.

Barry’s is located at 2 West Main St. in the Village of Webster.

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

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Fall in love with Webster (Week 4)

19 Feb

The Village of Webster’s exciting Fall in Love With Webster month-long community celebration is almost over. All month, residents and visitors to our fine village have been enjoying merchant discounts and special events, all embracing the theme of love.

Being this is the last week, you’ve only got a few days left to collect trivia answers. Look for questions and answers posted in the windows of participating shops, write down the answer and bring them all to Barry’s Old School Irish on Feb. 23 for the weekly trivia contest, and compete for fabulous prizes. More than 30 village businesses are participating!

Here’s what’s coming up this week:

All week:

❤ Thinking of Others: Be Someone’s Secret Admirer!

The Village of Webster is inviting everyone to be an old-fashioned “secret admirer” anytime during the month. You could send flowers to someone, or just pay it forward at the drive through. It’s all about thoughtfulness. Have fun!

❤ NEJFD Fire District boot drive

Our Northeast Joint Fire District firefighters are hosting a boot drive. All month, Barry’s Old School Irish and Lala of Webster will each have a real firefighter’s boot to accept your donations. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Webster Comfort Care.

❤ All week: Blind Date With a Book Sale at Yesterday’s Muse

This sounds like a lot of fun. Customers pay $5 to buy a mystery book, which is wrapped in plain brown paper with a genre and description written on the outside. Ooo…how fun! Which one will you choose?What a fun and romantic way to share some love, read a book, and make some February memories all the while supporting a local merchant. Sounds like a win for everyone! Who’s your mystery date? Find it at Yesterday’s Muse.

❤ Feb. 21 – 24: Frozen Dance Camp at ROC Dance

Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf & the Roc Dance faculty this winter break as and dance to all your favorite Frozen songs! Daily arts & crafts, games, songs and dancing to keep your little one busy during February Break. this feb break! Click here for more information.

❤ Feb. 22 – 24: February Break Camp at the Webster Rec, ages 6-11

Sign up the kids for this fun camp featuring games, crafts, gym, and more. For ges 6-11. Sign up here

❤ Feb. 22, 7 p.m.: Live Practice Session: Chorus of the Genesee

The Chorus sings four-part “a cappella” music, specializing in barbershop harmony, an original American art form. Click here to find out more about the Chorus of the Genesee and how you can get involved.  

❤ Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m.: Barry’s Crossword Puzzle and Webster Trivia Night

Barry’s Old School Irish’s weekly trivia night will have a crossword theme AND Village of Webster trivia theme! In addition to general knowledge questions set up in Crossword Puzzle format, they’ll also be asking Webster trivia questions. Get a leg up by collecting all of the answers ahead of time. They;re located in the merchant store windows. More info here, including how to reserve your table.

❤ Feb. 24, 5 to 7 p.m.: Betty White Night at Lala’s

Join us for a celebration of this amazing lady. Wear your favorite pearls and get ready to share in some snarky happenings! Food, drink, and birthday cake, of course! “Betty’s Happy Hour” will also offer a sneak peek into our winter and spring 2022 Charlie Paige clothing line. Plus, Ohhh, Lordee Everything Sauce will be catering the event. Call 585-236-1604 if you have any questions.

❤ Feb. 24, 4 – 8 p.m..: Golden Hour at Jojo’s

In conjunction with Lala’s Betty White Night, Jojo Bistro and Wine Bar will be offering a Betty White-inspired cocktail menu. Stop in for a “Betty White,” “Rose Nyland” or a non-alcoholic “Golden Girl.” Plus there’s live music, featuring the über-talented Amanda Ashley from 6 to 8 p.m.

❤ Feb. 24, 10:30 a.m.: Irish Star Block Class at the Village Quilt Shoppe

The points of these wonky stars are easy to create when you have the right tool – the Creative Grids Lazy Angle, that is! Combine them with four-patches for an intricate looking block that can be made in an afternoon! Finished size is 12 in. x 37 in. Call the Village Quilt Shoppe at 585-626-6916 to sign up.

❤ Feb. 25, 11 a.m.: Trunk Show: Sallie Tomato at the Village Quilt Shoppe

Taking a walk? Going to a festival or quilt show? Travel light with our Sophie cell phone and card case pattern. By carrying your cell phone and ID/credit card with this convenient cell phone holder, you won’t be weighed down by a traditional crossbody bag. Give the Village Quilt Shoppe ladies a call at 585-626-6916 to sign up. 

❤ Feb. 25 to 27: Heart to Heart Bride Trunk Show: Sincerity Bridal

Click here to find out which styles will be at the shop for that weekend only, or call 585-872-9696. 

❤ Feb. 26, 10 a.m.: Polar Bear Fun Run sponsored by Webster Parks and Recreation.

This is a one-mile fun run/walk or stroll through the beautiful Whiting Rd. Nature Preserve. There’s no charge, but click here to register.

❤ Also, all month you’ll find specials at Finn’s Garage (to benefit Heritage Christian Stables), Savage Chef, Professional Nutrition Services, Webster Eyecare Associates, Nut & Bolt Tattoo, Orville’s Home Appliances, Nest Things, Performance Hobbies and Webster Interiors.

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More details about all these events can be found on the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page.

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

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Webster community mailbag

18 Feb

I’d like to start off today’s mailbag with a sweet item from Mary Alice Moore about a friend of hers, Eleanor Scott, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday.

Eleanor wanted to mark the occasion by going to Nick Tahoe’s. So she and her group of girlfriends — who often do things together — headed downtown last week to the restaurant. The group, as you might imagine, attracted the attention of Alex Tahoe himself, who came over to talk with the ladies. Upon learning it was Eleanor’s birthday, he gave her a t-shirt, facilitated photos in front of the sign (behind the serving counter!) and even walked them to the parking lot.

There’s a good chance you might know Eleanor; she’s very involved in the Webster Presbyterian Church and Young Life, and has taken several mission groups to Kenya. Make sure to wish her a happy birthday if you see her around town!

Thank you to Mary Alice for providing this story and photos. She’s in Florida right now and couldn’t attend the party, but was there in spirit, and the “girls” kept her updated throughout the entire event.

Blood donors critically needed

This recent spate of bad weather hasn’t just made driving difficult and closed schools. It’s also meant that the Red Cross has had to cancel blood drives. And that’s dealing a tough blow to the national blood supply, which has already been at crisis levels since early January.

The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every two to three seconds, and most of us will need blood in our lifetime.

Your next opportunity to donate in Webster is coming up on Tuesday March 1, in the recreation room at the Lighthouse Baptist Church, from noon to 5 p.m. The church is located at 48 South Estate Drive (that’s near the Summit Knolls apartment complex east of Webster Schroeder off of Shoecraft).

They’d love for you to make an appointment to assure social distancing. You can click here to do so. I also recommend you get in the habit of filling out the RapidPass on the morning of your donation; it saves a lot of time.

I’d ALSO recommend you download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, available on the App Store and Google Play. It’s a great tool to help schedule appointments, view your blood type and results of your mini-physical, and track your donations.

EXTRA EXTRA from the library

On Tuesday Feb. 23, the Webster Public LIbrary will host Deanne Quinn Miller and local author Gary Craig for a discussion of their new non-fiction book, The Prison Guard’s Daughter, and the events of the Attica Prison Riot, which marked its 50th anniversary last Sepetember.

Miller is uniquely qualified to tell this story. She’s the daughter of Correctional Officer William Quinn, the first casualty of the Attica Prison Riot. She’s also a member of Forgotten Victims of Attica, which provides counseling, has established an annual memorial at the prison, and in the last 20 years has secured $12 million in reparations for its members.

Here’s part of the book synopsis taken from Amazon.com:

On the 50th anniversary of America’s deadliest prison riot comes a prison-guard daughter’s quest to uncover the truth about her father’s murder during the uprising―a story of crossing racial divides, befriending inmates and correctional officers alike, and challenging the state to reveal and pay for its malfeasance.

Deanne Quinn Miller was five years old when her father―William “Billy” Quinn―was murdered in the first minutes of the Attica Prison Riot, the only corrections officer to die at the hands of inmates. But how did he die? Who were the killers? Those questions haunted Dee and wreaked havoc on her psyche for thirty years. Finally, when she joined the Forgotten Victims of Attica, she began to find answers. This began the process of bringing closure not only for herself but for the other victims’ families, the former prisoners she met, and all of those who perished on September 13, 1971―the day of the “retaking,” when New York State troopers and corrections officers at the Attica Correctional facility slaughtered twenty-nine rioting prisoners and ten hostages in a hail of gunfire.

The discussion will be held via Zoom on Tuesday Feb. 23 from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is required, and once you do so, you’ll be sent the Zoom invitation. There’s no charge.

Penfield’s Annual “Indoor Hike” Scheduled for March

The Penfield Trails Committee will host its annual “Indoor Hike” on Saturday March 12 from 10 a.m. to noon at Penfield Town Hall, 3100 Atlantic Ave.

This unique event, held each year during the deep cold of the winter when the weather for outdoor hiking can be unfavorable, is a chance to explore and learn about nature and hiking-related topics in a lecture-style setting, with discussion time following the lecture.

This year’s topic is “Rewilding Local and Global Natural Habitats – A Sustainable Conservation Remedy,” presented by Penfield Trails Committee Chairman Nelson Carman. Mr. Carman will discuss ideas from environmentalist, author, and activist Paul Hawken on large-scale, practical remedies for reversing our climate crisis, as well as the concept of repairing and rewilding natural habitats on a global level from American biologist, naturalist, and writer E.O. Wilson. Discussion time will follow the lecture.

Hiking groups from other area towns and organizations will also be present with information about their groups and their 2022 schedules and events.

This event is free and open to the public. Participants are asked to please register here or by calling Penfield Recreation at (585) 340-8655.

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

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Local business strives to give back

14 Feb

You’d think that having written this blog for 14 years, I’d know pretty much everything there is to know about Webster. But once in a while I have the distinct pleasure of discovering something new, and learning about a business I’d never known before. 

That was the case with Gleason Orthodontics. The practice, headed by Dr. James Gleason, is located at 246 South Ave., basically right around the corner from my home. I’ve driven and walked by it hundreds of times, but had never given it a second thought. 

Last week, however, the name Gleason Orthodontics came across my radar twice, with regards to their participation in community events. Clearly this was a business that not only wanted to get more involved in the Webster community, but was actively searching out opportunities to do so. 

I had to meet them.

I knew I was in the right place when I walked into the office and Gleason’s marketing coordinator, Amy Gilmore, had to move a pile of handmade Valentines from a chair to give me room to sit down. Turns out they were having their young patients make cards for the residents of The Maplewood nursing home. She and the other staff members were making some as well, just to make sure there was a Valentine for each one of the Maplewood’s 72 residents.

Right next to the Valentines was a box filled with dental-health-inspired goodie bags which they were planning to hand out to children at the Webster Recreation Center. Amy explained that projects like these are their way of giving back to the area and the patients they serve, giving back to the people who have helped build the practice. 

“Most of our patients are here in Webster,” she said. “Instead of (Dr. Gleason) just dropping money here or there to organizations he doesn’t know about, he said, why don’t we invest in the community, invest in the people that we serve and we help? That’s really what we’re striving to do.”

The Valentine’s Day cards and goodie bags are just the beginning. Gleason is always looking for opportunities where they can give back. Their participation in the ongoing Fall in Love With Webster community celebration is a good example. All this month, they’re offering to buy Girl Scout cookies from anyone selling them, which they’ll then donate to veterans. (Call Amy at Gleason Orthodontics, 585-872-3355, if you’re interested.)  

The list of events like that which the practice is supporting is long and getting longer every day. It already includes the Mud Run at Webster Parks and Recreation, sponsoring the Kona Ice truck at the Summer Bash, participating in Community Arts Day and the Greater Rochester Peep Show.  

So keep your eye out for the Gleason Orthodontics logo, or better yet, the table they’ve set up at the next Webster community event. Then make sure to stop by and thank them for all their support for our community. 

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

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Spreading love this Valentine’s Day

13 Feb

For Valentine’s Day, a few short stories about how our young people are helping spread love throughout the community.

Cards for Maplewood residents

Last Monday night, Girl Scout Troop 60344 turned their bi-weekly meeting into a Valentine’s card-making party. The occasion arose from an invitation last fall from Mary Ann O’Mara and Pat Miller, who contacted the troop to offer their card-making “services.” Co-leader Linda Meyers said she “jumped at the opportunity.” Scheduling the event in conjunction with Valentine’s Day seemed ideal.

So, armed with bundles of already-prepped materials, Mary Ann and Pat joined the meeting and helped the Scouts prepare 28 beautiful cards, then sent each girl home with a treat bag of heart cookies from Sweet Jude’s.

By the way, Mary Ann and Pat would love to offer their card-making “services” to other groups as well. Email me if you’re interested and I’ll get you in touch.

Klem North students making Valentine’s Day crafts

The Klem North PTSA has always got some fun event up their sleeves.

Earlier this month, the PTSA purchased Valentine’s-themed crafts for teachers to have their students make. Students completed the crafts in early February and they were delivered to The Maplewood nursing home, Baywinde Senior Living Community, and the first responders at North East Quadrant Life Support in time for Valentine’s Day.

Here are some photos from those craft sessions:

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

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Fall in love with Webster (Week 3)

12 Feb

The Village of Webster’s exciting Fall in Love With Webster month-long community celebration is halfway over! All month, residents and visitors to our fine town are enjoying merchant discounts and special events, all embracing the theme of love.

I imagine you’ve noticed all of the decorations merchants are putting up and the trivia questions posted in the windows. Everyone really seems to be getting into the spirit.

PLUS, the event has attracted the attention of Wendy Mills from Spectrum News, who came out early last week to see what all the excitement’s about. Click here to see that story, which was televised on Wednesday.

Here’s what’s coming up this week. Check back next Sunday to see what’s scheduled for the last week!

❤ Thinking of Others: Be Someone’s Secret Admirer!

The Village of Webster is inviting everyone to be an old-fashioned “secret admirer” anytime during the month. You could send flowers to someone, or just pay it forward at the drive through. It’s all about thoughtfulness. Have fun!

❤ NEJFD Boot Drive

Our Northeast Joint Fire District firefighters are hosting a boot drive. All month, Barry’s Old School Irish and Whimsies (new shop next to Lala’s) will each have a real firefighter’s boot to accept your donations. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Webster Comfort Care.

❤ All week: Blind Date With a Book Sale at Yesterday’s Muse

This sounds like a lot of fun. Customers pay $5 to buy a mystery book, which is wrapped in plain brown paper with a genre and description written on the outside. What a fun and romantic way to share some love, read a book, and make some February memories all the while supporting a local merchant. Who’s your mystery date? Find it at Yesterday’s Muse.

❤ All week: HEAT WEEK at Webster Hots

Webster Hots is offering some “heat” this week with spicy specials. Stop by to pick up a meal or two during the this week of love and romance! Call (585) 265-0824.  

❤ Feb. 14: Heart-shaped donuts at Dunkin’ Donuts

Start your Valentine’s Day on a sweet note with a heart-shaped donut from Dunkin’ Donuts on North Ave. in the village.

❤ Feb. 14: Heart-shaped pizza from Salvatore’s

One day only…heart-shaped pizzas from Salvatore’s. Or order something from their large menu. Call 585-872-2210 or check out their website.

❤ Feb. 14: Valentine’s Dinner at Brimont Bistro

This French-based cuisine bistro is offering a beef tenderloin with all the trimmings. Call (585) 872-3170 or check out their website.

❤ Feb. 14: Cobblestone on Main Valentine’s Dinner — Reservations accepted!

Cobblestone on Main, which doesn’t normally accept reservation, is doing so for this one very special day. Check out their website and start planning your evening!

❤ Feb. 14 to 18: Share the Love free dance classes at Roc Dance

All week, Roc Dance will be offering free classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hop hop and acro for kids ages 2 and up, and there’s even a Mommy and Me class. Click here for more information.

❤ Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m.: Sweetheart Serenade at the Harmony House

The Chorus of the Genesee will be hosting another live practice session tonight at the Harmony House, but this one comes with a romantic twist. Bring your sweetheart by from 7:30 to 8 p.m., where she (or he!) will be serenaded with love songs. Enjoy a romantic atmosphere, a mimosa and perhaps a few other surprises. It’s free! Click here to find out more and to register so they have an idea of how many are coming.  

❤ Feb. 15, 4 p.m.: Class for Cause: Scrapping for Charity at the Village Quilt Shoppe

The Village Quilt Shoppe is having another great event, this time with a charity twist. Come help them cut fabric squares to help women in Honduras make quilts to support their families.What a great cause! Call today to sign up and help support this great mission effort. 585-626-6916.

❤ Feb. 15, 7 p.m.: Music: Eggman’s Traveling Carnival at Pub 235

Eggman’s Traveling Carnival plays songs from the 60s and 70s. The evening also features the Monsters of the Midway.

❤ Feb. 16: Carl’s Pizza Colossal Calzone and Pizza Deal

Two great deals today at Carl’s: a colossal calzone for $12.99 (with two toppings, ricotta cheese, mozzarella and two sides of sauce) and a 14“ medium, one-topping for $13.99. Click here for a link to Carl’s menu in case you want some other options.

❤ Feb. 17: Random Acts of Kindness Day, compliments Kittelberger Florist!

When you visit select merchants today, you might just be handed a flower, courtesy Kittelberger Florist. Kittelberger is celebrating National Random Acts of Kindness Day by providing a bouquet of flowers to any interested merchant, to hand out randomly today. If you happen to get a flower, post a picture to the Fall in Love With Webster Fabebook page!

❤ Feb. 17: The North Bee 20% off One Day Only

Shop in-store or online and receive 20% off your total purchase, plusreceive an entry for you and a friend for a chance to win a $50 gift card. Use code KINDNESS20.

❤ Feb. 17, 10:30 a.m.: Wool Mat Class at the Village Quilt Shoppe

Village Quilt Shoppe offers another fun event: wool mat. Are you new to working with wool applique or do you need to refine your skills. If yes, then this class is for you. Call 585-626-6916 to sign up!

❤ Feb. 17, 6-8 p.m.: Live music at Jojo Bistro and Wine Bar

There’s always great food, good drink, super atmosphere and lots of friends at Jojo Bistro and Wine Bar, 42 East Main St. And on Thursday nights, that also includes live music. Tonight, enjoy pop, folk, oldies and contemporary tunes with the occasional Irish twist, served up by Sean Rosenberry.

❤ Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m.: Barry’s Old School Irish St. Practice Day

Join the gang at Barry’s for beer, reps from Guinness, Irish music, good food and great friends. Check out the details here.

❤ Feb. 19, 9 p.m.: State Line at The Coach Sports Bar

State Line is a modern country cover band from Rochester. Visit The Coach website or call 585-872-2910.

❤ Also, all month you’ll find specials at Finn’s Garage (to benefit Heritage Christian Stables), Savage Chef, Professional Nutrition Services, Webster Eyecare Associates, Nut & Bolt Tattoo, Orville’s Home Appliances, Performance Hobbies, Nest Things and Webster Interiors.

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More details about all these events and what’s coming up the rest of the month at the Fall in Love With Webster Facebook page. Make sure to “like” the page to get regular updates, because new events are being added every day.

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

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We should all celebrate this holiday

10 Feb

In the great jumble of random, nonsense holidays that have cropped up over the years (did you forget to celebrate National Science Fiction Day on Jan. 2?), there is one that I think deserves some notice.

Next Thursday is Random Acts of Kindness Day. It originated in Denver, Colorado in 1995, and is celebrated every year on Feb. 17. The idea behind the “holiday” is to make the world a little brighter through simple, unexpected, kind gestures, words and actions. There’s even a Random Acts of Kindness foundation, which celebrates the event for an entire week.

Goodness knows, right now this world needs more kindness. So today I’d like to challenge my readers to follow the official foundation’s lead: next week, at least once a day, do some random act of kindness.

What you do doesn’t have to be elaborate. It could be as simple as telling that teenager with the blue hair that you really like the color. Or helping an elderly couple put their groceries in the car. Or putting a loving note in your child’s backpack. Every day we encounter dozens of opportunities like these to make someone’s day a bit brighter. All we have to do is notice them, then DO something with them.

As part of the Village of Webster’s month-long Fall in Love With Webster celebration, Kittelberger Florist has come up with a very special act of kindness. They’re providing bouquets of flowers to any village businessowner who wants one. Then, on Thursday, those merchants will hand individual flowers out randomly to customers who enter their shops.

What a great way to spread kindness throughout the entire community.

Need some ideas on what you can do to celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Week? You can ask Google for ideas, or click here for a .pdf listing … well, a LOT of suggestions. You can take notes or print the entire list to post on the fridge.

I’d love to hear how you helped spread kindness next week. Drop me an email!

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

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There when you need it: the Medical Equipment Loan Closet

9 Feb

When accidents happen, or perhaps your elderly parent needs a wheelchair, fate doesn’t ask if you have insurance to cover the cost of renting or buying rehabilitative equipment. That’s where the Medical Equipment Loan Closet come in.

The Loan Closet is located at 979 Bay Rd. in the Damascus Shrine Center, where it rents space from the Shriners. Executive Director James Clancy and Loan Closet Coordinator Michelle Lyons staff the closet every weekday from 9 to noon, managing the loan of hundreds of pieces of medical equipment, large and small.

I found out about the Loan Closet when Michelle posted something about it on a local Facebook page. Apparently not a lot of people know about it, so she was trying to spread the word. That’s how I found out about it, and when I stopped in the other day, I was amazed by both the volume of equipment they offer, and the fact that it’s all loaned out for FREE.

Well, let me clarify that a bit. The larger items, like wheelchairs, knee walkers and rollators require a $25 deposit, which is returned when the equipment is returned. But everything else, like crutches, shower chairs, quad canes and so much more … all you gotta do is ask.

The Medical Equipment Loan Closet has been serving the Webster community from its current location since 2003. For a while, it was running concurrently with a loan closet hosted by the Webster Community Chest. But that one closed several years ago, leaving the Damascus Shrine-based location the only one in town.

Here’s a partial list of the items the Loan Closet can provide. Loans are for four months. If there’s something you need that’s NOT here, simply give them a call and ask, because there’s a good chance they have one.

  • wheelchairs
  • knee walkers
  • walkers
  • rollaters
  • quad canes
  • shower chairs
  • commodes
  • crutches
  • transfer benches
  • sock aids, grabbers and leg lifts
  • tub clamp bars and shower bars

They don’t, however, have any beds or electric equipment. There’s just no room for those.

The Medical Equipment Loan Closet runs completely on donations, mostly from community members. They take donations of equipment and supplies (in good shape, please) but are always grateful for cash donations as well to help cover their overhead and to purchase new equipment. All equipment donations are washed and sanitized on-site.

Michelle told me that her Facebook post has gotten a lot of attention, and they’ve begun to get more calls. But this is something that EVERYBODY needs to know about. Certainly there are a lot more people out there who could use its services. The Medical Equipment Loan Closet is a hidden resource that’s been serving the Webster community for 19 years. It’s about time it came out of hiding.

The Loan Closet is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon at the Damascus Shrine Center, 979 Bay Rd. For more information about their services, give them a call at (585) 671-9730.

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

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Get ready to get your Peeps on!

6 Feb

After a two-year in-person hiatus because of … well, you know why … the Greater Rochester Peep Show is returning to the Webster Recreation Center in April, to benefit the Webster Community Chest.

This is great news, because it means that spring is not far away. Organizers are still putting this 7th annual event together, but have put out the call for participants, performers and volunteers.

Here’s their wish list, from the 2022 Greater Rochester Peep Show website:

  • Sponsors are needed. Three different sponsorship levels are available, from $75 which includes voting tickets, an award and mention on the webpage; to $250 which includes a banner with your business’ name on it, a major show prize named after you, sponsorship of an individual table and more. Click here for more information.
  • They need entertainers and community groups — like dancers, musicians or martial artists — who would like to give a demo at the show. Click here for more info.
  • They need LOTS of volunteers, as greeters, kids’ room helpers, face-painters, poster distribution, set-up and clean-up and more. Contact the organizers for more information.
  • They need Peep display makers! It’s not too early to think about what your family or organization can put together this year. Get creative and have some fun. To enter a display or reserve a space, click here.

The 2022 Greater Rochester Peep Show will be held Saturday and Sunday April 2 and 3 at the Webster Community Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr. Here are a few images from last year’s show, which was held virtually. Click here to see more.

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

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Webster community mailbag, and happy birthday Webster

4 Feb

The Town of Webster is celebrating an anniversary on Sunday.

On Feb. 6, 1840, Governor William Seward announced the birth of the Town of Webster. Originally part of North Penfield, land was split off to create the new town after a petition with 324 signatures was presented to the NYS Assembly.

The name of Daniel Webster — a prominent lawyer, former U.S. Congressman and Secretary of State — was proposed for the new town after a group of citizens heard him give a speech in Rochester. (As far as I can tell he never actually stepped foot in the town.) The first town meeting was held at Lett’s Tavern, at the corner of Webster-Fairport and State Roads.

The Webster Museum (who provided the birthday announcement) has also sent along this tidbit in honor of Black History Month, about Asa Dunbar, one of the area’s earliest residents.

The search for information about the history of African-American people in Webster remains slow-going. A combination of factors complicate the search: record keeping and retention were not priorities in this area in the 18th century, and information about races other than white were not recorded on census forms. …

Asa Dunbar’s family came to Northfield around 1795 when Asa was 41 years old. He is credited with being the first black inhabitant of the Rochester area. At 6’7”, he was a trapper, an imposing figure who looked after the interests of the city of Tryon on the west side of Irondequoit Creek. Asa did not, so far as we know, reside in Webster, but did business here…. perhaps for the store, perhaps for himself. He sold fruit and salt from a salt spring near his home, and evidently also from salt springs in Webster along the bay. …

Research has turned up information about a few of Asa’s relatives as well, including his nephew, Asa Dunbar, Jr., who lived in the area until 1851; and another Asa Dunbar who was perhaps a grandson or nephew. According to an interview conducted on 1881, that Asa was named after “Asa Dunbar, an early settler of gigantic strength (who) frequented the place to manufacture salt.”

Yet another Asa — Asa Bass — was a pioneer who came to what would be Webster in 1812 along with other pioneers from Massachusetts. He was, so far as we know, the only black pioneer to arrive then and his family were likely the first black residents here. He was a farmer of some means and purchased at different times, three different properties between the northern sections of what are now Phillips Road and Route 250.

Information about these early African-American settlers is hard to come by, so the Webster Museum is hoping to hear from relatives of people who might have been friends or neighbors of the Dunbars and Basses. Any information, even the smallest clue, would be helpful. If you have anything to share, contact Kathy at ktaddeo5@icloud.com.

Red Cross Blood Drive

I know the Red Cross is always whining about blood shortages, but this time they’re serious. They’re facing their worst blood shortage in more than a decade, which means doctors are having to make difficult decisions about who receives transfusions and who can wait. Blood and platelet donations are needed now more than ever.

Your next opportunity to help save as many as three lives with a donation is this Monday Feb. 7 at Holy Trinity Church. The drive will be set up from 1 to 7 p.m. in the church’s community room. Click here to make an appointment.

Please.

February Fun at the Webster Public Library

Here’s a list of just some of the fun programs planned this month at the Webster Public Library:

T(w)een De-Stress Program, Thurs. Feb 24, 3 to 4:30 p.m. (in person). Teens grades 4 to 12 are welcome to make some stress-relieving toys. Cozy treats will be provided as well. Registration required.

Learn to Knit! Tuesdays Feb, 22 and March 1, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (in person). Learn the basics of knitting including reading patterns, casting on, knitting, purling, and binding off. Bring any smooth, “worsted”-weight yarn (labeled #4) and a pair of knitting needles, any size from 6 to 9. Teens and adults are welcome. Registration and attendance are required for both sessions.

This month’s make-and-take crafts are a Ladybug Valentine for the kids, Valentine’s Day Pom Pom Monsters for teens, and a Yarn-wrapped Wire Word for adults. Materials are free and available first-come-first-served at the Webster Public Library, 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 Twitter and Instagram (@missyblog)

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