Tag Archives: Webster Public Library

What’s happening with the Women’s Club?

12 Sep

Now that it’s September, the answer to that question is … LOTS.

The autumn season actually kind of kicked off on August 20, when 30 Women’s Club of Webster members and guests gathered on a gorgeous Thursday afternoon for a leisurely 90-minute cruise on the Sam Patch along the Erie Canal in Pittsford. Thanks to Captain Zach for the smooth ride and First Mate Bob for serving up beverages and some very interesting canal history.

The canal cruise was just the first of several special events the club is planning for the 2026/27 year. Next up is the Women’s Club’s annual Card and Game Party, scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 29.

Participants can play any number of card games or, if you don’t like card games, bring a game of your choice. You can play with friends or take advantage of the opportunity to meet some new people. There are door prizes, raffles, 50/25/25 drawings and more. 

Coffee and danish will be served beginning at 10 a.m. with a buffet lunch at 12:30, including salad, eggplant parmesan, chicken French, roasted rosemary potatoes, fresh vegetables, rolls and butter, with cookies and brownies for dessert.   

It all takes place on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at Glendoveers, 2328 Old Browncroft Rd. Donation is $45 and reservations are required by Sunday, Sept. 20. For tickets, send a check payable to the Women’s Club of Webster to Diane Miller, 428 Seneca Park Ave., Rochester, 14617. Make sure to include the names of anyone you would like to play with. 

Sip, Shop ‘n’ Savor at Lala’s

This is going to be a fun time.

On Thursday, Sept. 24, Lisa Schlonski, owner of Lala of Webster, will host one of her very popular Sip, Shop, Savor & Support events to benefit the Women’s Club. Basically, this is an evening of coming together as a community to have fun with friends, meet new people, and benefit a good cause at the same time.

From 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday Sept. 24, shoppers are asked visit Lala’s and purchase items worth $15 or more to be included in raffle baskets being prepared for the Women’s Club’s Card and Game Party, scheduled for Sept. 29. As a thank you, shoppers can take advantage of a 20% discount off your entire Lala purchase that evening. Then, after you’re done shopping, head next door to Jojo Bistro & Wine Bar for more discounts, live music and special appetizer and drink menus.

Details are still coming together for this terrific evening out, but put it on your calendars now.

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

Give blood, enjoy homemade cookies

The Women’s Club is also proud to assist once again at the American Red Cross Blood Drive scheduled for Friday, Oct. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd. Women’s Club members will staff the canteen, offering donors supremely scrumptious homemade cookies, congenial conversation and a friendly word of thanks for giving the gift of life.

Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s always best to make an appointment. Log onto redcrossblood.org/give, or call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 9/12/2026)

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Webster community mailbag

30 Aug

September is still a day or two away, but the September events are piling up, even more than they did over the summer. Looks like it’s going to be a busy fall.

It all really starts on Friday, Sept. 11, when the Village of Webster holds its annual September 11th Memorial Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park (Gazebo Park) on North Ave., beginning at 5:30 p.m.

It’s hard to believe that 2026 is the 25th anniversary of that awful event. The Village always does a very nice job commemorating it. The ceremony usually lasts around 45 or 50 minutes and includes first responders and local and regional political representatives who offer some comments. The Chorus of the Genesee or Village Band will also be there to perform patriotic tunes.

Chicken BBQ … yum

St. Martin Lutheran Church will host their next Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday Sept. 12 from 4:30 p.m. until they run out. Dinners include 1/2 chicken, salt potatoes, coleslaw, roll, butter and cookie for just $15 (cash or check only). Pull into the parking lot, place your order using exact payment, and the dinner will be delivered to you as you drive up in your car. Proceeds will support the church’s Little Free Pantry and annual Christmas Stocking Project.

St. Martin Lutheran Church is located at 813 Bay Rd.

Health and Wellness Fair

The Webster Business Improvement District (BID) will host its 4th annual Webster Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, September 12.

The fair will showcase businesses and professionals throughout our community that address all aspects of health and wellness. It will be held at Lattimore Physical Therapy, 70 Barrett Dr. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and there’s no charge to attend. The fair will feature all aspects of health and wellness, including physical, mental, environmental, social and financial health. Pharmacists from Wegmans will also be on hand for a vaccine clinic.

During the Wellness Fair, the BID will also host a free shredding event from 10 a.m. to noon in the parking lot.

This is a drive-through event. Please bring paper only, and staples do NOT need to be removed. Paper must be placed in cardboard boxes or paper bags (no plastic), with a limit of five boxes per vehicle.

Webster Museum program

The Webster Museum will host their first program of the fall season on Saturday, Sept. 12.

Karen Lankeshofer will speak about the life of cycling legend Elsa Von Blumen (1865-1935). Elsa gained national attention initially for her lengthy walks, but soon caught further attention for her race against a horse here in Rochester, and a 1000-mile bicycle trek over 6 days.

Fit for the occasion, Tim Warren will be atop the museum’s penny farthing bicycle to demonstrate the skills required to operate this venerable device.

The presentation will begin at 3 p.m. It’s free to attend and refreshments will be served. The Webster Museum is located at 18 Lapham Park

Vintage book sale

The next Friends of the Webster Public Library Vintage and Collectible Book Sale has been scheduled for Saturday, September 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the community room.

There will be 14 tables with about 250 books, grouped into the following table themes: U.S. Civil War; mystery, spy and suspense fiction; travel; juvenile fiction; art; animals, birds and nature; Rochester and Upstate NY; titles published by The Modern Library; American history; poetry; medical and health; and older fiction.

Nearly all books offered are in good or better condition, many with their original dust jackets in a protective plastic cover. Some are first editions or early printings. Most books being offered were published in the 20th century, and most are priced under $20.

The sale will be held Saturday, Sept. 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the community room of the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd.

And these things …

Also coming up this month:

  •  Webster Comfort Care Home’s 5th Annual Raise the Stakes Casino Night, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd. This is an exciting evening of gaming, prizes and fun while supporting a great cause. Click here to read more about it.
  • The Webster Garlic Fest, Saturday and Sunday Sept. 12-13 at the Webster Recreation Center. A “stinkin’ good time” for young and old. Click here to read more about that.
  • The Mud Run, on Saturday Sept. 19, also at the Recreation Center. This is sloppy, muddy fun for the whole family. Click here to read more about that.
  • The Village of Webster Beer Walk and Car Show, Saturday Sept. 19. The Car Show will be from 3 to 6 pm. on West Main St., and the Beer Walk will run from 4 to 7 p.m. Registrations for the Car Show are closed and no drive-up registrations will be accepted. Tickets are not yet available for the Beer Walk, but stay tuned here for more details when they become available.
  • The Webster Comfort Care Home hosts their annual Their Light Shines remembrance event on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at the home, 700 Klem Rd. Participants are invited to purchase a luminaria and personalize it for their loved one. They’ll all be placed around the home’s parking lot on the evening of Sept. 29 in loving memory of those we’ve lost. More information to come, but the luminaria are available for purchase now. They cost $15 each or $25 for two. Visit the Webster Comfort Care website to learn more.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 8/30/2026)

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Webster community mailbag

31 Jul

Christmas in July (in August)

Webster Comfort Care Home’s Christmas in July Market will be open this year to the public for the first time, on Saturday August 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The WCCH folks wrote,

We’ve had so much fun sharing our Christmas in July Market with our staff, volunteers, residents, and their families, and now we’re excited to invite the public to join us for a special shopping event!

Browse a wonderful selection of handmade items created by one of our talented former residents. While you’ll find plenty of Christmas décor and gifts, you’ll also discover beautiful handbags, dolls, and many other special handcrafted treasures. Not everything is Christmas-themed, so there’s truly something for everyone!

It was our resident’s heartfelt wish that these handcrafted items be sold to benefit the Home, making each purchase a meaningful way to honor her generosity while supporting our residents and the compassionate, no-cost, end-of-life care we provide.

Whether you’re getting a head start on your holiday shopping or searching for a one-of-a-kind handmade gift, we hope you’ll stop by and support the Home.

The Webster Comfort Care Home is located at 700 Holt Rd., at the corner of Klem.

News from the library

Here are a few August notes from the Webster Public Library:

  • The August Community Exchange is jewelry. This is a great chance to update your bling.
  • The August Donation Station benefits Rescued Treasures Pet Adoptions.
  • The local band Ivy’s Home will present a concert at the library on Monday, Aug. 3 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. They describe their playlist as “original music and covers that merge folk songwriting with the classic roots of Anericana.” Registration is required.
  • Learn All About Prehistoric Plants on Thursday, Aug. 6 from 4 to 5 p.m., when Jack Kowlack presents a fun and informative program. Are there plants in your yard that dinosaurs munched on? Did prehistoric plants look anything like plants today? Learn the answers to these and more questions. Registration is required.

And don’t forget about the library’s brand new College and Transition Fair. Its goal is to support individuals with disabilities who will no longer get support from the school system for their services; to answer the vexing question, “What do you do when the bus stops coming?”

Among the more than two dozen organizations which will be represented are colleges that have programs for people with disabilities; those offering workforce development options; a few organizations looking for volunteers; some housing, dayhabs and support options, and more.

It’s scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon inside the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd. (at the back of Webster Plaza). There’s no cost and you don’t have to register, but if you would like a reminder, click here to sign up.

These events, by the way, are just a small sampling of all the great activities for children, adults and families going on ALL THE TIME at the library. It’s too hard for me to tell you about all of them, so I highly suggest you sign up for one or two of the library’s emailed newsletters so you get all the details. Click here to sign up.

Cold beer and cool cars

The Webster BID is taking reservations now for the second annual Main Street Car Show & Beer Walk, scheduled for Saturday, September 19.

If you have a fancy or old car you’d like to show off on Main Street, click here to register. Space is limited. Tickets for the Beer Walk will be available soon on the Webster Business Improvement District website. 

This is a hugely fun event, so stay tuned for more details and plan to be there.

Women’s Club meeting scheduled

The Women’s Club of Webster has announced details for its September luncheon meeting.

It will be held on Thursday, Sept. 17 at Capitano’s, 1400 Empire Blvd. The event begins with social hour at 11:15, followed by a short business meeting, lunch and a fun program.

Lunch will be a buffet including a selection of gourmet sandwiches, coffee tea and soda, and assorted desserts. Cost is $25. Please send your check made out to the Women’s Club of Webster to Kim Tauriello, 303 Phillips Rd., Webster, NY 14580, by Sept. 3.

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(posted 7/31/2026)

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

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Library to host College and Transition Fair

21 Jul

The Webster Public Library is introducing a brand new event this summer, especially designed for people with developmental disabilities. It’s called the College and Transition Fair, and its goal is to support individuals with disabilities who will no longer get support from the school system for their services; to answer the vexing question, “What do you do when the bus stops coming?”

Among the more than two dozen organizations which will be represented are colleges that have programs for people with disabilities; those offering workforce development options; a few organizations looking for volunteers; some housing, dayhabs and support options, and more.

This will be a smaller event than the Diverse Abilities Resource Fair held in April, but is still a much-needed resource for those planning for the future.

The College & Transition Fair for People with Developmental Disabilities will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon inside the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd. (at the back of Webster Plaza). There’s no cost and you don’t have to register, but if you would like a reminder, click here to sign up.

If you’d like a reminder, click here to register for the College & Transition Fair.(opens in new tab)

Here are the organizations who will be there (the ones I knew about at press time, anyway):

Colleges

  • AutismUp
  • CP Rochester
  • InclusiveU
  • LifePrep@Naz
  • MCC Experience
  • NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
  • Roberts Wesleyan University – ARCH Program
  • Roberts Wesleyan University – BELL Program
  • SUNY Brockport

Workforce Development

  • ACCES-VR
  • Center for Disability Rights and Regional Center for Independent Living
  • RochesterWorks
  • RochesterWorks, DreamLink of Monroe County

Volunteer Opportunities

  • Eastern Service Workers Association (ESWA)
  • Lollypop Farm, The Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Housing, Dayhabs and Support

  • The Arc of Monroe
  • Heritage Christian Services
  • PPL Public Partnerships, LLC
  • Starbridge

Other

  • Best Buddies
  • Blue Heron Collective
  • The Community Place of Greater Rochester
  • Person Centered Services
  • Prime Care Coordination
  • STEPS2 Education Classes
  • Urban League of Rochester / Empowering People’s Independence

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(posted 7/21/2026)

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

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Webster Public Library is delivering the joy of reading to Webster’s seniors

11 Jul
(L-R) Sarah Hodges and Jenny Paxson at Maplewood Nursing Home
Books/items in BookBox for Seniors collection

A new program offered by the Webster Public Library (WPL) is helping to bring the joy of reading to our town’s older residents.

It’s called BookBox for Seniors, an initiative the WPL introduced last year to deliver library services to senior living communities, whose residents often find it difficult or impossible to travel to the library proper.

It’s basically a mobile library dedicated to serving our community’s senior citizens. The idea is simple: once a month, WPL staff members stuff a few suitcases with several dozen books, drive on over to the senior community, spread them all out on tables in a common room, and let residents choose the ones they’d like to check out. Large-print books comprise most of the selection, but a smattering of coffee-table books and books about local history are mixed in as well.

The BookBox for Seniors program grew from the kernel of an idea proposed almost 10 years ago at a library staff meeting. But it was when Outreach Coordinator Jason Poole attended a conference in 2024 that the idea really took wing. He saw a presentation there by another librarian who described a similar program using discarded large-print books. He immediately recognized this as a way for the WPL to expand its services to Webster’s seniors.

But first, he needed to test the waters to see if such a program would float. Jason reached out to Maggie McNamara, Director of Resident Programming at Castle Pointe at Baywinde Senior Living Community, to see if she’d work with the library to run a four-month trial program. If it didn’t get a lot of traction, they could think about making some changes or maybe try a different location.

To their delight, the initial trial, which ran from January through April 2025, was incredibly well received at Baywinde. They even started to see some regulars coming back every month. Following that successful spring run, Julia Cougle, the library’s Communications and Outreach Library Assistant, took over the program, and last September extended its reach to Maplewood Nursing Home in the Village of Webster.

For each visit, library staffers bring three suitcases packed with as many as 40 books, plus a CD player and a selection of books on CD. Everything is spread out on one or two long tables, sorted by genre to help make the display less overwhelming. Residents can check out as many materials as they like (the librarians use those classic due-date cards) and keep them until the following month. They can even borrow a reading stand to help manage heavier books. Each visit lasts about 45 minutes.

Julia Cougle at Sage Harbor at Baywinde.
(L-R) Mary Ann Kwiatkowski and Julia Cougle at Sage Harbor at Baywinde.

The BookBox program is clearly a win-win for everyone involved — the library, the residents and the senior center directors.

Maggie McNamara wrote,

It has been wonderful working with Jason and the Webster Library team to launch the Senior BookBox program at our independent and assisted living neighborhoods. This partnership brings the joy and convenience of an in-house library directly to our residents, making it easy for them to browse and check out books without leaving the community. The library team thoughtfully selects novels they believe our residents will enjoy, including a variety of large print options. This program helps residents continue their love of reading with independence while enjoying the comfort and convenience of home!

The BookBox for Seniors program is not the WPL’s first seniors outreach effort. Mary Ann Kwaitkowski has been holding a book discussion group with senior residents at St. Ann’s Cherry Ridge for more than 15 years. She brings books from the library and meets with members to discuss them, and regularly draws as many as 20 participants.

Both programs are helping spread the joy of reading to a population that is too often overlooked. Through BookBox and years of dedicated outreach, the Webster Public Library is proving that you’re never too old for a good story, and you’re never too far for a special delivery.

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(posted 7/11/2026)

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

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Webster community mailbag

6 Jul

This is a very library-heavy mailbag, mostly because there’s SO MUCH going on at the Webster Public Library (WPL).

But first, this from St. Martin Lutheran Church:

St. Martin Lutheran Church will host their next Pulled Pork Drive-Thru on Saturday July 18 from 4 p.m. until they run out. Dinners include pulled pork sandwich, salt potatoes, coleslaw and cookie for just $15 (cash or check only). Pull into the parking lot, place your order using exact payment, and the dinner will be delivered to you as you drive up in your car. Proceeds will support the church’s annual Christmas Stocking Project. St. Martin Lutheran Church is located at 813 Bay Rd.

A Sweet Sunset Social

The Town of Webster is hosting an evening gathering at Sandbar Park on Friday, July 17, beginning at 7 p.m.

They’re calling it “A Sweet Sunset Social,” and it will feature live music from Chelsey Barry and Mark Cellura, dirty sodas, and popcorn, all of which you can enjoy while watching the beautiful waterfront sunset.

This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

Now, from the Webster Public Library (WPL)

  • This month’s community exchange is jewelry — bring your unused pieces and swap them out for new.
  • And while you’re there, drop off some non-perishable goods at the WPL Free Food Pantry, this month’s featured Donation Station.
  • Dino-tech Labs Escape Room: This challenging escape-room adventure will be run on two Saturdays, July 25 and Aug. 15, in 30-minute sessions from 10:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants are placed in DinoTech Labsm where a traitor has sabotaged the equipment. You have 30 minutes to decipher the clues left behind by the saboteur and save the park and all its inhabitants (human and dinosaur) from complete destruction. The activity is recommended for ages 8 and up. Every team must have at least one person aged 16 or older, and teams can include from 2 to 6 people. Registration is required. Click here to register  for July 25, and here for Aug. 15.
  • Learn about dinosaurs and birds in this program presented by paleontologist Dan Krisher. It’s Tuesday, July 14 from 1 to 2 p.m. and is recommended for ages 8+. Click here to register.
  • HLAA Hearing Presentation and Test, Wednesday, July 29 from 2 to 3 p.m. Come learn about hearing assistive equipment, new over-the-counter hearing aids, and the library’s hearing loop from the Rochester Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). Free hearing tests will also be available. Registration is required.  If you need any reasonable accommodations, please contact Jenny Paxson at jennifer.paxson@libraryweb.org or call 585-872-7075 x6144 at least 7 business days before the event.
  • The Make it Monday crafts for teens and tweens are America’s 250th Birthday-themed. It’s Monday, July 13 from 6 to 7 p.m. Grades 4-12 and adults are welcome, but registration is required.
  • How about a Jurassic-themed summer camp? The 3-week Jurassic Camp takes place on Wednesdays July 8, 15 and 22 from 2 to 3:30 each day, and each week campers will make a different dinosaur craft. Individual registrations are required for each session. Click here to register for July 8, click here for July 15 and click here for July 22.
  • Or a Dino Camp for grades 2-5? It runs for three weeks, July 14, 21 and 28, and each week there’ll be a different dinosaur craft. Click here for more information and to register for the first week.
  • Get the family together and try some Mezosoic Family Trivia on Thursday, July 30 from 11 to 11:45 a.m. It’s a morning of snacks, and trivia based on the age of dinosaurs! Click here to register.

Friends Vintage and Collectible Book Sale

The next Friends of the Webster Public Library Vintage and Collectible Book Sale has been scheduled for Saturday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the community room.

There will be 14 tables with about 250 books, grouped into the following table themes: business, England, juvenile fiction, older fiction, Rochester and Upstate NY, music, George Washington and John F. Kennedy, science fiction, war, American history, science and math schoolbooks and textbooks. Plus, two tables of miscellaneous books. 

Nearly all books offered are in good or better condition, many with their original dust jackets in a protective plastic cover. Some are first editions or early printings. Some appear to be signed by their authors, although the signatures have not been authenticated. Most books being offered were published in the 20th century with a smattering of titles evident from both the mid- to late 19th century and the early 21st century.

Most books have been priced under $20 with many of these in the $8 to $15 range but some are priced $20 or higher, especially those from the Easton Press which are prized by collectors. All prices are fixed so there will be no negotiating. Prices have been selected for profitable resale so book dealers and eBay sellers should especially see what is available. If you collect books, you may find your next treasure here.

BY THE WAY, beginning the day of the Vintage Book Sale on July 18 and through Aug. 1, the Friends will be selling Kittelberger Bouquet Cards. The cards are $50.00 each, and are good for one beautiful Kittelberger bouquet every month for a year. They make a wonderful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or just for you.

Still more from the library: The Webster Public Library is introducing a brand new event this summer, especially designed for people with developmental disabilities. It’s called the College and Transition Fair, and its goal is to support individuals with disabilities who will no longer get support from the school system for their services. More than two dozen colleges and organizations have already signed up.

The College & Transition Fair for People with Developmental Disabilities will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon inside the Webster Public Library. More to come about that, but in the meantime, mark your calendars.

Webster Hope could use your donations

The annual Webster Hope Back-to-School event, to supply new school supplies to Webster students, will take place at from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday Aug. 18. The event relies on community donations to stock the back-to-school shop at Hope. New school supplies can be dropped off at Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Road, or at Hope during any open hours. Webster Hope is located at 1450 Ridge Rd.

You can see a whole list of requested donations in the July newsletter. (While you’re there, make sure to sign up to get this great newsletter in your mailbox quarterly.)

Raise the Stakes to benefit WCCH

Here’s another reminder about the Webster Comfort Care Home’s 5th Annual Raise the Stakes Casino Night, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd.

This is an exciting evening of gaming, prizes and fun while supporting a great cause. Webster Town Supervisor Alex Scialdone will emcee the evening, which will have casino-style gaming tables, a silent auction, raffles, cash bar featuring a signature cocktail and mocktail, appetizers, hors d’oeuvres, light bites, and desserts. Plus, everybody gets $500 in complimentary chips included with admission (additional chips available for purchase).

Tickets are $75 per person, and they’re available now. There are also plenty of sponsorship opportunities ranging from ads in the program for $25 to a Blackjack Table Sponsorship for $2,500. Click here to purchase tickets, ads and sponsorship opportunities.

And now for something completely different

Here’s a quick tease about some of the blogs I’m hard at work on this month:

  • Big things are happening at M.O. Pasta in the Village of Webster. Mike celebrated his third anniversary in April and has some exciting plans for his little shop.
  • Do you like to run? Maybe not as much as these ladies. My running buddy Karen and her friend are just about three miles and one bunch of streets away from completing their goal to run every street in Webster. More to come on how long THAT took them.
  • The library has a great program to connect our senior population with library services. They call it their BookBox for Seniors, where they travel to elder care facilities and bring a selection of books for the residents there to check out.
  • The library is also updating their sensory space. Didn’t know they had a dedicated sensory space? They do, and soon it will be better than ever.
  • Ever wonder who the Joe Obbie Farmer’s Market is named after? Who was Joe Obbie? That blog coming up soon as well.
  • If you’re a fan of the Arboretum, you’ll want to read more about the Arboretum’s Poetry Trail in a few weeks.
  • It was sad to see Mabel Jane’s Vintage Shop on North Ave. move out a while ago, but encouraging to see that the storefront at 10 North Ave. will soon have a new, art-focused proprietor.

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(posted 7/6/2026)

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).

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Cross-district collaboration sparks young artists and authors

11 Jun

A unique exhibit on display now at the Webster Public Library showcases the artistic and writing talents of 71 of our Webster CSD elementary school students.

The project is called “Spark, Jr.: Art From Writing, Writing From Art,” and it’s a creative blend of imagination and words, where paintings inspired stories, and stories inspired art.

Four classes across the district participated: Jamie Palmer’s preschoolers at Schroeder High School; Leslie Ambler’s first graders at Klem North Elementary; and from Schlegel Elementary, Kathleen Hall’s second graders and Becky Margiotta’s third graders.

The project unfolded in two creative waves. First, students in the four classrooms each created an original work of art and a piece of writing. These were then shuffled and passed along to other classrooms, where students used them as a springboard, creating new art sparked by the other student’s written words, and new writing sparked by another student’s artwork.

The idea for the “Spark, Jr.” project has been percolating in Jamie Palmer’s head for about 15 years, ever since she was a fifth grade teacher at Klem South Elementary, and through her years as the librarian at Schlegel Rd. Now, as a preschool teacher at Schroeder High School, she was finally able to make it happen.

“I was working with (author) Amy Ludwig VanDerwater in my fifth grade classroom,” Palmer said. “She shared that she was taking part in this experience. I thought it was a really cool idea and wanted to see what would happen if we tried it out with students in multiple grade levels, and possibly across our district. This was finally the year to try it out with three amazing teachers.”

The students and their families were invited to an artists’ reception (complete with refreshments) at the library on Wednesday evening to see their own work on display and how other students had been sparked by their artwork and writing. It was delightful to see how proud the young authors and artists were to show off their work, and how excited they were to see the results. But it was especially touching when actual connections were made between writers and artists from different classrooms.

The project sparked the teachers as much as the students. Kathleen Hall perhaps said it best when she told Palmer, “This is literally the best thing I’ve ever done as a teacher.”

More than 280 individual pieces of art and writing were created, and they’re all on display at the Webster Public Library through June 19. You’ll find them spread between two locations: under the huge feathers in the main lobby, and in (and on) the display case near the information desk. The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza.

Meet some of the artists/authors:

  • PreK student Mila Levy reading everyone’s written pieces
  • Emerson Cocquyt, 2nd grade
  • 2nd grader Benjamin Popielarz with Leslie Ambler
  • PreK student Peyton Mahns with her bubble gum portrait
  • Writer/artist connection: Emma Fischer (2nd grade) and Jaxson Williams (preK)

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(posted 6/11/2026)

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

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What’s happening at the library?

30 May

As often happens, when I get the monthly newsletter from the Webster Public Library, I find that there’s just SO MUCH going on that I want to highlight that I can’t put it all into my mailbag. This month’s newsletter was particular is problematic, because in June the library is kicking off their annual summer reading program, which not only involves a community party, but has a lot of other fun, themed programs for children and adults. So I’ve split it all out into a separate blog.

The library will be introducing their summer reading program with a party on Friday, June 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Ridge Park, 1000 Ridge Rd. (behind Town Hall). This is always a great event with crafts, games, storytime, treats and more. The Friends of the Webster Public Library will be onsite selling individually wrapped snacks for $1 a piece (cash only please). There’s no admission to the party, and all are welcome.

This summer’s program, which runs from June 19 through Aug. 15, is called “Unearth a Story,” and it will focus on dinosaurs, geology, and other prehistoric topics. All ages can participate, and any type of reading counts – you can listen to audiobooks, have someone else read a book to you, read on your own, or anything else in between. There are prizes to be won based on how much you read.

You can find out more at the kick-off party, but if you can’t make that, you can pick up a summer reading bookmark at the library. You can also participate virtually; just download the Readsquared app or go to websterpubliclibraryny12.readsquared.com.

Here are some fun summer-reading themed activities this month:

  • For kids and families: Dino-tech labs escape room

This challenging escape-room adventure will be run on three Saturdays, June 27, July 25 and Aug. 15, in 30-minute sessions from 10:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants are placed in DinoTech Labsm where a traitor has sabotaged the equipment. You have 30 minutes to decipher the clues left behind by the saboteur and save the park and all its inhabitants (human and dinosaur) from complete destruction.

This activity is recommended for ages 8 and up. Every team must have at least one person aged 16 or older, and teams can include from 2 to 6 people. Registration is required, but doesn’t open until June 1. Click here to register for June 27, here for July 25, and here for Aug. 15.

  • Dinosaur Drop-in Crafts

On Friday June 26 and Saturday June 27, stop by the storytime room anytime from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for dinosaur-themed crafts and coloring. All ages are welcome.

  • For adults: A Tale of Lost Sites

On Tuesday June 23, archaeologist Justin Tubiolo will discuss the loss of historical structures around Monroe County. The ongoing disappearance of nineteenth-century structures deprives future generations from viewing former environments and understanding their town’s history. Tubiolo will discuss a few examples of lost sites around Monroe County, where he started background studies for anticipated fieldwork, but was later denied access as structures were demolished, the land graded and developed.

The program will be held on Tuesday June 23 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Click here to register.

  • For Tweens and Teens:

This month’s Make it Monday craft on Monday, June 8 from 6 to 7 p.m. are Giant Pool Noodle Beaded Lizards. (Yep, they’re as cool as they sound.) Grades 4 through 12 and adults are welcome.

How about a Jurassic-themed summer camp? The 3-week Jurassic Camp takes place on Wednesdays July 8, 15 and 22 from 2 to 3:30 each day, and each week campers will make a different dinosaur craft.

Individual registrations are required for each session. Click here to register for July 8, click here for July 15 and click here for July 22.

  • Also happening in June at the library:

For adults: a performance by the Top Brass Musical Duo on Monday June 29 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The duo is Pete Madsen on trumpet and Jeff Greene on trombone; both are retired Monroe County music teachers and performers. They will perform a variety of music – big band, swing, traditional jazz, and the Great American songbook. Registration is required.

June’s Donation Station is period supplies, and Community Exchange is craft supplies.

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(posted 5/30/2026)

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

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Two upcoming Webster fairs highlight Greater Rochester senior services

20 May

Webster seniors looking to connect with local services will soon have two fantastic opportunities right in their backyard. The Webster Recreation Center and Webster Public Library will each host an upcoming Senior Resource Fair tailored specifically for community members ages 55 and older. The events will bring together dozens of organizations from across the Greater Rochester area, offering information on everything from senior living and recreation to meal programs, legal services, and more.

The first of the two events is scheduled at the Webster Recreation Center on Wednesday, May 27 — National Senior Fitness and Health Day — from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It will feature health and information vendors, a free yogurt bar, free health assessments, mini fitness demonstrations, cornhole and tours of the Rec Center. Plus there’ll be some raffle prizes.

The event is open to the 55+ community. You do not have to be a member of the Rec Center and no registration is necessary. Just pop in when you can! The Rec Center is located at 1350 Chiyoda Dr., just off of Phillips.

This is the Rec Center’s second annual Senior Fitness Day, and I was able to check it out last year. It was a lot of fun and the yogurt bar was a real treat. (And by the way, my husband Jack will be there promoting his Aging…better blog.)

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A little more than a week later, on Thursday June 4, the Webster Public Library will host their very first Senior Resource Fair from 3 to 5 p.m.

Almost 50 organizations have signed up to be at this fair:

  • 101 Mobility of Rochester
  • AARP Smart Driver Program
  • Aging…better (newsletter)
  • Caring Transitions
  • Catholic Charities Family & Community Services
  • Center for Disability Rights
  • Churches Offering Meals for Everyone
  • ConnectCare MD
  • Coordinated Care Services 
  • Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County
  • Corretore McLaughlin, Attorneys at Law
  • Eastman-Rochester New Horizons Program
  • ElderONE
  • Elevate Dance Center
  • Episcopal Senior Life Communities
  • Excellus Medicare Advisor
  • Finger Lakes Mobile RNs
  • Happier at Home
  • Heathwood Assisted Living and Memory Care
  • Jewish Home – Lilac Grove Community
  • Kindsoul
  • LawNY
  • Legacy at Clover Blossom
  • Lifespan
  • M&T Bank in Webster
  • Monroe County Office for the Aging
  • New York Life financial professional
  • Oasis Rochester
  • PPL First
  • Rainbow Seniors ROC
  • Senior Helpers in Rochester
  • Senior Medical Care – Dr. Luis Postigo
  • Senior’s Choice Care Management
  • Seniors Helping Seniors
  • SMT Mobile Notary
  • Social Security Services
  • St. Ann’s Community
  • Surrogate Son
  • Sweet Home Photography
  • TekHub
  • Veterans Affairs – Rochester Vet Center
  • WASPS (Webster Senior Transportation)
  • Webster Comfort Care
  • Webster Community Chest
  • Webster Recreation Center 55+ Activities & Services
  • WellFitRoc
  • Willard H. Scott Funeral Home
  • Your Best Move

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(posted 5/18/2026)

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

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What do you love about the Webster library?

12 May

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.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 5/12/2026)

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