Tag Archives: Webster Public Library

Library’s Community Building Circle connects people and ideas

20 Sep

The Town of Webster is already a pretty strong community, but a new(ish) program at the Webster Public Library is helping to make it even stronger.

It’s called the Community Building Circle, a safe gathering space where participants can talk and share their opinions on a topic chosen by the facilitator. Everyone has a chance to speak — and listen — and are encouraged to be open and genuine with each other. All are welcome and all voices are heard. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new people.

Here’s the description provided by the library:

Please join us for a monthly Community Building Circle!  We are social beings that not only need connection — we thrive and are more resilient when community bonds are nurtured and strengthened.  The circle structure, where each person has an opportunity to speak, in turn, without interruption, creates a safe space to make connections, build relationships and be heard. Each circle focuses on a meaningful topic that is chosen by trained facilitators. There’s never any pressure to speak, or to return, but our hope is that after experiencing a community building circle and the relationships that develop there, you’ll join us again as we build community together.

The program is held the second Friday of the month from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Large Study Room. There’s no cost, but registration is required. Click here to register for the October 9th session.

The Community Building Circle is sponsored by PiRI (Partners in Restorative Relationships).

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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 9/20/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

18 Sep

The Webster Community Chest is selling Kittelberger Flower Cards, but you have to get on this SOON, because they’re available only through Sept. 27.

Each card gets you 12 Months of Flowers ($180 value; $15 monthly value) for only $50. They make great gifts, or grab one for yourself so you’re sure to have fresh flowers on your table all through the coming winter.  

You can also purchase a flower card and donate it to the Community Chest, and they will brighten the lives of 12 families through this coming year, by gifting them with a bouquet of flowers.

Please contact Tracy at webcommchest@gmail.com or 585-671-2060 to order your card(s) and discuss payment options.

This fundraiser will support WCC’s Women’s Empowerment Programs.

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The United Church of Christ, 570 Klem Rd., is hosting a special performance titled “They Live On…in Word and Song to Support Mental Health,” on Sunday, Sept. 21 at 2 p.m. The community program will support those in various stages of caregiving and loss.

“They Live On…in Word and Song” features excerpts from Patricia Nugent’s memoir — They Live On: Saying Goodbye to Mom and Dad –paired with nine original songs by singer/songwriter Michael Jerling.

Tickets are $20, a donation to the church’s mission of supporting mental health awareness and education. Click here to get yours. For more information, email office@uccwebster.org.

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Webster Central School District families are invited to join a virtual event to learn more about “Distraction-Free Learning” on Tuesday, September 23, from 6 to 7 p.m. Dr. Robert Chalwell, assistant superintendent for student and community engagement, will lead the event. Dr. Chalwell will provide a brief presentation on the New York State law, Webster CSD policy, and the district’s ongoing implementation process. There will be Q&A, as well as a chance to hear perspectives from students, teachers, and families. The district will also provide resources for parents and guardians, and raise awareness about other hot-button topics.

The meeting will be held on Zoom. You can access it here.

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The Webster Lions Club will be hosting their chicken and ribs BBQ on Thursday, Sept. 25 from 3 to 6 p.m. (or until sold out) at Webster Fireman’s Field.

Cost is $20 per person (cash or check) and dinners (prepared by Bad to the Bone in Williamson) include a quarter chicken, pit-smoked ribs, mac salad, BBQ beans and corn bread. Dinners are drive-thru and pick-up.

All proceeds will support Webster Lions Club charities and to help those in need in the community.

The Lions Club’s mission statement is to improve the quality of life for visually and hearing-impaired individuals and those with diabetes. The Club also partners with Camp Smile, located in Webster, a summer day camp for children who are visually or hearing-impaired. To learn more, click here  or call 585-234-5480.

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The Country Gardeners of Webster will be holding a “Frightful and Delightful” Halloween-themed flower show on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Webster Presbyterian Church, 550 Webster Rd.

Explore floral designs, artistic crafts, an array of horticultural specimens and other surprises. Get ready to decorate your home for the Halloween season! Admission is free and there’s plenty of parking.

Take a peek at the stars on Saturday night, Oct. 4 when the Webster Public Library hosts a Star Party from 6 to 9 p.m. Jim Porter, retired Chief Systems Engineer at NASA, will be on hand to discuss, “What can you see in the night sky?” See robots demonstrated by the McQuaid IgKnighters Robotics Team, play large versions of your favorite games outside with your family or friends, and make a space-themed craft. There’ll be donuts, pizza, hot/cold cider and hot cocoa (available for purchase). You can also enter a raffle for a chance to win a prize, and each attendee will get a free raffle ticket.

A telescope and binoculars will be available for use, or bring your own (that’s recommended).

This is an outdoor event held in the parking lot, and registration is required. The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd.

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The Webster Public Library and Color Webster Green will present an informative presentation all about plastics on Oct. 6 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

It’s called Plastics & Health: What You Need To Know. Almost every bit of plastic breaks down into “microplastics.” Documentaries such as Plastic People show how these microscopic particles drift in the air, float in all bodies of water, mix into our soil, and end up in our bodies.

Jane van Dis, MD, FACOG, Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Rochester will present on the prevalence of plastics and the effects that plastics and the chemicals inside them have on our health. This talk will address key scientific findings and offer insight into ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones. A Q&A session will follow Jane’s presentation. This event is organized by Color Webster Green.

The program will be held Monday Oct. 6, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Webster Public Library’s Community Room. There’s no charge, but please register here so the library knows how many people to expect.

The Webster Arboretum will present their next educational program, all about Bonsai, on Tuesday, Oct. 7 from 7 to 8 p.m.

The program will be presented by award-winning bonsai artist Mark Arpag, who will speak on the art of growing, developing and refining bonsai. Mark has won national awards for his Eastern White Cedar, Balsam Fir and Larch and has a passion for native bonsai and stones. He’s especially interested in shohin bonsai and bonsai display. He has a large and fine quality collection of shohin bonsai as well as larger size trees.

The Arboretum expects a sell-out crowd for this presentation. It’s free to attend, but you need to register. Click here to do so.

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The Friends of the Webster Public Library’s Book Sale will be held Wednesday, Oct. 22 through Saturday, Oct. 25. The first day of the sale — Oct. 22 from 4 to 7 p.m. — is exclusively for Friends members. Membership can be purchased at websterlibrary.org or at the door.  

All are welcome to attend the book sale on Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hardcover books will be $1 each and paperbacks are only 50 cents each. Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon are Bring-Your-Own-Bag Sale days, when you can fill your bag with books for only $5. All are welcome to attend the BYOB Sale days.

Proceeds from the sale support the library. I’ll post another reminder about this in a few weeks.

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The Women’s Club of Webster has announced plans for their next luncheon, scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 16 at Proietti’s Restaurant, 980 Ridge Rd., Webster.

October’s speaker will be Ron Kampff, Vice Chair of Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester. Located in Webster, Miracle Field provides people with developmental, physical or intellectual disabilities a barrier-free, safe, accessible place to experience the health benefits and joy of play through baseball, other team sports, and adaptive recreational equipment.

The event begins at 11:15 a.m. with social time, followed by lunch at noon and Mr. Kampff’s presentation. Attendees will enjoy a variety of Proietti’s popular pizzas, salad, cannoli and camaraderie.

Cost of the luncheon is $19. Send your check, made out to the Women’s Club of Webster, by Oct. 9 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, NY 14519. If you think your check will be late, phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303.You do not have to be a member of the Women’s Club to attend, but new members are always welcome!

Here’s a great opportunity to actually chat with some Women’s Club members:

The American Red Cross is sponsoring a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3 at the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd., and the Women’s Club of Webster will be providing the snacks.  

Blood donors will be warmly greeted at the cantina by members of the Women’s Club, and enjoy supremely scrumptious homemade cookies with their juice.

The whole process takes only about an hour. Appointments are not required. Donors should feel free to just drop in. For more information about the blood drive, please contact Katie Houtat 585-353-9964.

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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 9/18/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

9 Sep

We’re going to start today’s mailbag with a look at what’s happening at the Webster Public Library this month.

  • Some beautiful music is in store on Friday, Sept. 12 when the Gold & Ivory Flute Duet performs from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. They play flute and piano music in styles ranging from the classical era to American pop. Registration is required.
  • This month’s community collection is picture frames. If you’ve got some you really don’t want, and could use a few others, bring them by the library and swap them out.
  • September’s Donation Station is accepting diapers to be donated to Webster NY Hope.
  • Family Fun Night on Monday, Sept. 29 from 6 to 7 p.m. will celebrate the start of Star Wars Reads Month in October with Star Wars-themed crafts and activities. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 16 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. will be a Play-Doh Play Morning. It’s National Play-Doh Day, so stop by for a morning of creativity and fun. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.
  • This month’s Drop-in Crafts will be autumn-themed. Stop in Saturday, Sept. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to make something fun. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.
  • Children in grades 4 to 12 and adults are invited to Make it Monday on Sept. 15 from 6 to 7 p.m. This month the craft night features Perler Bead Bookmarks. Registration is required.
  • The next meeting of the Teen Library Club is Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Teens in grades 6 to 12 who like books, games, crafts, sharing your ideas, taking surveys and hanging out with your friends are encouraged to join. Click here to register.

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The Village of Webster’s annual September 11th Memorial Ceremony will be held Thursday Sept. 11 beginning at 6 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Park, 28 North Ave. This is always a very nice ceremony, and will feature patriotic music by the Webster Village Band.

On Saturday Sept. 13 the Village of Webster will host a Health and Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lattimore Physical Therapy, 70 Barrett Drive.

This free event will showcase many health-related businesses and professionals in our area. Learn more about all aspects of health and wellness, including physical, mental, environmental, social and financial health.

Also on Saturday Sept. 13, the Village will host a free shredding event from 11 a.m. in the Lattimore Physical Therapy parking lot.

This is a drive-through event, accepting paper only (staples do not need to be removed). Paper must be placed in cardboard boxes or paper bags, with a limit of five boxes per vehicle.

Click here for more information about the health fair and shredding event.

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Also on Saturday, Sept. 13, there’s a pharmaceutical collection event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Eastway Wegmans, 1955 Empire Blvd.

Accepted Items include:

  • pills and liquid medications
  • prescription medications
  • over-the-counter medications
  • empty medicine bottles
  • ointments and creams
  • sprays and inhalers
  • EpiPens, sharps and syringes

Syringes/sharps must be in approved sharps containers or sturdy alternatives (two liter plastic bottles, rugged laundry soap bottles, etc.). All containers should be capped and labeled “SHARPS”.

Appointments are not required for this drive-up pharmaceutical event.

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There’s also a Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off on Wednesday, Sept. 20 from 7:45 to 11:45 a.m. at the Webster Highway Dept., 1005 Picture Parkway.

Residents may properly dispose of up to thirty (30) gallons of chemicals, such as paint, automotive fluids, fertilizers, household cleaners, and pool chemicals at no charge.

Registration is REQUIRED. Click here to learn more and schedule an appointment.

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The United Church of Christ on Klem Rd. is hosting a special performance titled “They Live On…in Word and Song to Support Mental Health,” on Sunday, Sept. 21 at 2 p.m. The community program will support those in various stages of caregiving and loss.

“They Live On…in Word and Song” features excerpts from Patricia Nugent’s memoir — They Live On: Saying Goodbye to Mom and Dad –paired with nine original songs by singer/songwriter Michael Jerling.

The performance will be held at the United Church of Christ, 570 Klem Rd. on Sunday, Sept. 21 at 2 p.m. Light refreshments will be served immediately after the performance. A CD of the readings and music will also be made available at the event. Tickets are $20, a donation to the church’s mission of supporting mental health awareness and education. Click here to get yours. For more information, email office@uccwebster.org.

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St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold its Fall Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday, Sept. 20 at the church, 813 Bay Road, Webster. The event begins at 4:00 p.m. and will continue until all dinners are sold out.

Dinners will include a half chicken, salt potatoes, coleslaw, roll, butter and cookie, and will cost $15.

The event will be drive-through only and there will be no advance sales; first-come, first-served. Cars should enter the parking lot, follow the signs, and purchase dinners using exact payment of either cash or
check. Cars will then pick up boxed dinners.

Proceeds from the BBQ will support both St. Martin’s Little Free Pantry and Christmas Stocking Project, which reaches more than 500 local youth in Monroe and Wayne counties.

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Looking ahead to October, the Country Gardeners of Webster will be holding a “Frightful and Delightful” Halloween-themed flower show on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Webster Presbyterian Church, 550 Webster Rd.

Explore floral designs, artistic crafts, an array of horticultural specimens and other surprises. Get ready to decorate your home for the Halloween season! Admission is free and there’s plenty of parking.

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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 9/9/2025)

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You’re invited to my Prague travelogue!

5 Sep

There’s still time to register for my Prague travelogue, scheduled for this coming Tuesday Sept. 9 at 2 p.m. at the Webster Public Library.

As many of you might remember, I spent several weeks in Prague, Czechia earlier this year. I was accompanying my husband, who’d been awarded a Fulbright Specialist grant to work with a journalism organization headquartered in the city. Being there for that much time gave us a great chance to see pretty much all of the touristy things you need to see in that beautiful city. But also plenty of time to explore many not-so-touristy things.

That’s where the title of my talk comes from: Prague, Czechia: the Weird and the Wonderful. The wonderful portion of the talk will illustrate how stunningly gorgeous the city is, and feature the most popular tourist attractions. The weird portion will highlight several off-the-beaten-track — and rather unusual — attractions. And Prague has a lot of them.

Of course, I took a LOT of photos when I was there (it’s what I do) and came home with lots of stories to tell. Apparently, the kind folks at the Webster Public Library think that others might be interested and have asked me to put together this travelogue.

Two of the “weird” things I’ll be telling you about at the talk

So if you’re at all interested in seeing some (OK, a lot) of those photos and hearing about my adventures, please join me at the Webster Public Library next Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 2 p.m. It’s totally free to attend but please register here so they know how many chairs to set up. The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the rear of the plaza.

If you can’t make it to that talk, I’ll be doing a second one at the Webster Recreation Center on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 10:30 a.m. It’s part of their regular Talks on Tuesday series. To register, navigate to the Recreation Center’s registration tab and click on the 55+ Programs box. Then search “Prague” as a keyword in the 55+ programs category. You’re looking for program #346940-J. If you have any problems, call the Rec Center art (585)-872-7103. They’ll take care of you.

I’d really love to see you there!

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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 9/5/2025)

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Wanna hear about Prague?

18 Aug

As many of you might remember, I spent four weeks in Prague, Czechia earlier this year. I was accompanying my husband, who’d been awarded a Fulbright Specialist grant to work with a journalism organization headquartered in the city.

Of course, I took a LOT of photos when I was there (it’s what I do) and came home with lots of stories to tell. I’ve already shared many of those photos and stories with pretty much anyone who’d listen. But now, I’ve been asked by the Webster Public Library AND the Webster Recreation Center to put together a travelogue and share them with everyone else.

So if you’re at all interested in seeing some of those photos and hearing about my adventures, you have two opportunities in the next few months to do so. The first is at the Webster Public Library on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 2 p.m. Registration is now open for that one.

If you can’t make it to that talk, the second one will be at the Webster Recreation Center on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 10:30 a.m. It’s part of their regular Talks on Tuesday series. To register, navigate to the Recreation Center’s registration tab and click on the 55+ Programs box. Then search “Prague” as a keyword in the 55+ programs category. You’re looking for program #346940-J. If you have any problems, call the Rec Center at (585) 872-7103. They’ll take care of you.

There’s no cost for either talk, but they do like to have people register so they know how many to expect.

As you can see from the title slide above, I’m calling the travelogue “Prague, Czechia: the Weird and the Wonderful.” The wonderful portion of the talk will illustrate how stunningly gorgeous the city is, and feature the most popular tourist attractions. The weird portion will reflect the fact that when you have a whole month to explore a city, it’s possible to track down some very unusual, off-the-beaten-track attractions. And Prague has a lot of them.

For example, these two things. Nope, not going to tell you what they are. You just have to come to the talk!

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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 8/18/2025)

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Don’t blink! Check out the library’s tiny art show

11 Aug

Next time you’re at the Webster Public Library, make sure to check out the Tiny Art Show set up in the main lobby next to the Community Room.

The exhibit was organized again this year by Teen and Family Experiences Librarian Colleen Hernandez. Advertising for the event began earlier this summer, when participants were encouraged to pick up blank canvases at the library and make them beautiful. Artists had all of July to perfect their work, and then bring them back to the library in August for display.

This year’s theme is “Color My World,” echoing the Summer Reading Program theme. Colleen received more than 100 submissions (so many more than the 60 she had last year) from participants of all ages, and the artists clearly took the theme to heart. The tiny artwork pieces they produced are impressive and eclectic … and VERY colorful.

Their subject matter ranges from animals to plants to scenes both abstract and realistic. They’re created with pencil, markers, crayons and poster paint. Several of them feature 3-D elements which pop from the canvas.

All this month, library patrons are encouraged to stop by and vote for their favorite pieces (you must vote in person). The display will be taken down the first week of September, so make sure to get there soon. The winning prize? “Fame and glory,” Colleen, said, including recognition on the library’s social media pages.

The photos give you a sneak peek of the mini canvases, but you really need to see them close-up and in person to really appreciate the artistry. (And you have to vote in person, anyway.) So stop by the library sometime in the next few weeks and cast your vote. (Warning: it’s going to be a difficult choice.)

The Webster Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza.

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

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “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 8/11/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

27 Jul

Lots of new and different stuff in today’s mailbag, plus a few reminders at the end of some musical events.

Your opinions are important

The Town of Webster is still looking for more community input as they plan to update the town’s Comprehensive Plan. The plan guides zoning, the actions of the Planning Board, informs what greenspace protections are implemented at a town level and what code changes the Town Board can implement to protect greenspace within developments…or not.

A successful Comprehensive Plan requires substantial public input and community engagement, and so far, not a whole lot of people have clicked through to the survey to voice their opinions. There’s still time to do so; the survey deadline has been extended through July 30. If you tried to take it before and found it a bit intimidating, try this much faster and easier three-question alternative. The Town will accept responses from both surveys.

If you’d like to learn more about the Comprehensive Plan and why it’s important, the Webster Open Space Committee will be holding an information session on Monday Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. at the Webster Public Library.

Euchre at the library

The Webster Public Library is starting up a Euchre Club, which will meet every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m., beginning on Aug. 6. Experienced and brand new euchre players are welcome; if you don’t know how to play, show up at 5:15 for a quick review of the rules. Light refreshments will be provided, and you can also bring your own snacks.

Please register for each session you’d like to attend. Interest is expected to be high, so if you find that a session is full, place your name on the wait list, and as soon as four people are on the list, the library will open up another table. If you’ve registered and find you cannot attend, please cancel your registration.

Each session will be held from 5:30 to 7:30, and there’s no charge. For more information and to register, click here.

Take a test drive, win Buffalo Bills swag

West Herr Ford at 810 Ridge Rd. (corner of Five Mile Line) is hosting a Test Drive Fundraising Event on Saturday Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., to benefit the Webster Community Chest.

For every person who registers and takes a quick test drive, West Herr will donate $40 to Webster Community Chest. If 50 people sign up and drive, that means a cool $2,000 for one of Webster’s coolest agencies.

BUT NOT ONLY THAT! Every person who test drives will get a raffle ticket for a chance to win Buffalo Bills merchandise and other prizes, including a life-sized Josh Allen stand out and an autographed football.

BUT THERE’S MORE! West Herr will also have free DiBella’s subs and soft drinks, so you can grab lunch while you’re there. If you come in the morning, you’ll enjoy coffee and donuts.

No appointment is necessary. Just walk in, and choose from a whole line-up of cars and trucks (or they’ll bring out something else off the lot if you want). Just hop in, take a short drive, return and hop out. No hard sales, no obligation. Takes about 15 minutes.

Good food to support great music

The Webster Marching Band Boosters will host their 9th Annual Food Truck Rodeo on Thursday, Aug. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Fireman’s Field on Sanford St.

Participating trucks include Bruster’s, Eat Greek, Macarollin, Mr. Squeeze, Rob’s Kabobs, Roc City Sammich and Tuscan Wood Fired Pizza. The event will also feature artisan vendors, a kids’ play place, face painting, plus a 50/50 and vendor raffles.

Guests will also get a preview of this year’s Webster Marching Band show, “In Times Of” at 6 and 7 p.m.

The boosters are still looking for more artisans, crafters, and restaurants to showcase and sell their products during the event. If you’re interested in becoming a vendor, click here for the application.

Help Webster Hope help our neighbors go back to school

One good thing about school supplies hitting the store shelves already is that you can get some really good deals. While you’re out there stocking up on supplies for your kids, please pick up a few extra items for the annual Webster NY Hope community collection.

Webster Hope is collecting NEW supplies from now through Aug. 19 to stuff in backpacks for children in our community who are in need. The entire wish list is on the flyer here, but you can also see the list on the Webster NY Hope Facebook page.

Supplies can be dropped off at the Webster Public Library, or at Webster Hope during the agency’s open hours, Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The new backpacks filled with brand new school supplies will be handed out to pre-registered families in about a month. I’ve been at one of these distribution events, and the excitement I have seen in these kids’ eyes is heartwarming.

Music, music and more music

Now here come some musical reminders:

  • The next free Music at the Arb concert at the Webster Arboretum is scheduled for Thursday Aug. 14, featuring the String Brothers from 6:30 to 8 p.m. These concerts are held at the gazebo, and are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. The Arboretum is located at 1700 Schlegel Rd.
  • The Village of Webster’s Friday Night Concert series returns Aug. 1 with a performance by It’s My Party. Concerts are held at the Village’s Gazebo Park, located at 28 North Avenue. All concerts start at 7 p.m. They’re free and no registration is needed.
  • The United Church of Christ‘s next outdoor Caring Community Concert is scheduled for Wednesday July 30, featuring Ruby Shooz. It will benefit the Webster Community Chest. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m., and food concessions begin at 6. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and a picnic if you’d like. United Church of Christ is located at 570 Klem Rd. (In case of rain it’s moved indoors.)
  • The Webster Village Band‘s next community concert is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 7 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Village Band Shell at Harmony Park on Phillips Rd. The theme is “At The Movies,” highlighting movie soundtracks from many well-known composers. These conc erts are also free and open to the public.

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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 7/27/2025)

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More than just books: Webster Library launches weekly walking club

25 Jul

The Webster Public Library has always been a hub for lifelong learning, filled with book clubs, storytimes, lectures, creative workshops and educational opportunities designed to keep your mind engaged. But now, it’s taking things a step further — literally. A new walking program is putting physical wellness on the agenda, recognizing that staying mentally sharp is easier when your body is active, too.

The Library Walking Club kicked off about two months ago and meets every Tuesday at 2 p.m. Led by library assistants Lee Cooney and Maggie Gibson, the group takes an at-your-own-pace walk around Webster. The hour-long strolls begin and end at the library and follow a route that’s manageable for all ages and ability levels. So far, that’s usually meant a walk along the Rt. 104 bike path from Hard Road to Holt Road and back.

“We aim for the least amount of traffic engagement,” Lee said. “The path is paved and for the most part reasonably kept up,” which makes it accessible for everyone. Having two staff members on hand also allows the group to spread out while still staying connected. “We do try to be mindful of everyone’s pace,” Lee added.

As the program grows, Lee and Maggie are exploring other routes to keep things fresh. For example, a few weeks ago the walk included a stop for Bruster’s ice cream, and just last week, the group explored the Hickory Bark Trail in the wooded area behind the library.

But wherever the trail leads, the goal remains simple: “Keep moving, meet new people, and have a good time together,” Lee said.

The Webster Public Library Walking Club continues every Tuesday at 2 p.m. through Sept. 20. Walks are held rain or shine (“Some people actually like walking in the rain,” Lee noted), unless conditions are unsafe. The program is free, and no registration is required; just meet in the library’s main lobby. If a walk needs to be canceled, updates will be posted on the library’s calendar, Facebook page, and a sign in the lobby. You can also call 585-872-7075 with questions.

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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 7/25/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

16 Jul

Today’s mailbag is going to be a long one, so buckle up, my friends.

These first few events are coming up fast — like Thursday and Friday — so I want to let them know about them up front.

Listen to music, smell the flowers

The next free Music at the Arb concert at the Webster Arboretum is scheduled for Thursday July 17, featuring the acoustic duo  Chelsey Berry and Mark Cellura, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

These concerts are held at the gazebo, and audience members are encouraged to spread out on blankets or in lawn chairs to enjoy some delightful music, surrounded by the beauty of the arboretum. The concerts are free and open to the public, and no registration is necessary. Snacks will be available with proceeds benefiting the Arboretum.

Sip and shop

Also happening Thursday evening, a special event brought to you by Lala of Webster and Jojo Bistro, which they’re calling “Fine Tastings,” to benefit the Al Sigl Center.

From 5 to 7 p.m., sip while you shop, and shop while you sip, while enjoying light fare from Jojo Bistro and music by iSteel Music.

Lala of Webster is located at 38 East Main St. in the Village of Webster.

Music at another gazebo

The Village of Webster’s Friday Night Concert series begins this Friday July 18. The first concert features the Earthtones, who play 70’s/80’s music including favorites from Fleetwood Mac, Billy Joel, Grateful Dead, Talking Heads, Tom Petty and others.

Upcoming concerts include:

Concerts are held at the Village’s Gazebo Park, located at 28 North Avenue. All concerts start at 7 p.m.. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a night of free music under the stars.

More information about these concerts and all the other exciting Village of Webster events coming up this summer and fall (including the Jazz Festival, Beer Walk and Bourbon Bash, Trick-or-Treat Trail and more) can be found at websterbid.com.

More from the Arboretum

The next informational program hosted by the Webster Arboretum is called “Honoring Life — One Frog at a Time,” scheduled for Saturday July 19 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Join Margot Fass, M.D., the “Frog Lady,” and discover the life of our friend the frog. And before you come, check out Margot’s whimsical book, Froggy Family’s First Frolic. The presentation will be held outside on the far side of the pond at the Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. There’s no charge, but registration is requested.

And even MORE music

The United Church of Christ‘s next Caring Community Concert is scheduled for Wednesday July 23, featuring Allegro, Western New York’s premier party band. It will benefit the Webster Health and Education Network.

The concerts all begin at 6:30 p.m., and food concessions begin at 6. People are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets and a picnic if they wish. The concerts are held on the United Church of Christ’s front lawn, at 570 Klem Rd., so bring a blanket and chairs. (In case of rain it’s moved indoors.)

The remainder of this summer’s schedule includes:

For more information about the concerts, click here.

Summer family fun from the Rec Center

This summer more than ever we need this: the Webster Recreation Center’s annual Summer Splash, scheduled for Saturday July 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the First Responders Spray Park on Chiyoda Dr.

Rich the Magic Man will be there with foam bubble fun, and free slushies will be provided courtesy Gleason Orthodontics (while supplies last). The event is free and open to all, and no registration is needed.

Old books at great prices

The Friends of the Webster Public Library will host a Vintage and Collectible Book Sale on Saturday July 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the library’s Community Room. The sale features fourteen tables of books, many with titles available for the first time. Most books are under $20. Proceeds from the sale support Webster Public Library.

In other news from the library, this month’s Community Exchange is jewelry. Bring in some items you don’t wear anymore, and swap them out for something new! And July’s Donation Station is accepting hygiene products for underprivileged and disabled seniors.

This month’s drop-in crafts tables will feature camping. Two sessions will be held, Friday and Saturday July 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No registration is needed, and all ages are welcome.

And this looks like fun: this month’s Family Fun Night is a scavenger hunt, scheduled for Monday July 31 from 6 to 7 p.m. Start in the storytime room, where you’ll get your instructions, then follow the clues on a scavenger hunt through the library. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.

These events are just a few of the great things happening at the library in July. To keep on top of all of them every month, click here to subscribe to the Webster Public Library newsletter. (Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the sign-up link.)

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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 7/16/2025)

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Kick off your summer of reading with the Webster Public Library

18 Jun

No one can get kids excited about reading than our very own Webster Public Library.

That commitment will be on full display on Tuesday, June 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., when the library will host its Summer Reading Kickoff Party at Charles Sexton Park (formerly North Ponds).

The annual event features games and crafts, treats, storytime with Jason and more. But mostly, this is a great chance to find out more about this year’s Summer Reading program, called “Color Our World.”

The program runs from June 24 through August 29 and is for all ages. You can participate virtually or in-person, but regardless, the same great prizes and fun await you. The more minutes you read (or listen), the more you earn. Reach milestones along the way to earn prizes and complete a full reading log to enter to win a grand prize at the end of the summer. There are even some additional challenges to earn more chances to win. 

You can sign up at the kickoff party, or stop into the library anytime they’re open and pick up a Summer Reading bookmark to get started. To participate virtually, download the Readsquared app or click here.

All ages are welcome to attend the kickoff party. There’s no charge, and no registration is necessary.

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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 6/18/2025)

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