Tag Archives: WHEN

WHEN asking for your support on ROC the Day

26 Nov

ROC the Day 2025 is right around the corner. This annual community-wide event, sponsored by the United Way, is a 24-hour opportunity for people in the Greater Rochester and Finger Lake region to support local nonprofits which are doing amazing work, through online donations. This year’s campaign will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2.

On their website, the United Way maintains a catalog of more than 500 local nonprofits which provide a wide range of services, to which you can make a donation on ROC the Day. I suspect there are already some Webster organizations on that list. But for the first time this year, an organization near and dear to my heart, and for which I volunteer regularly, is jumping into the ring and is asking for your support: the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN).

WHEN is a youth drug prevention coalition. For 30 years now, its mission has been to promote healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in the Webster community. Chances are very good you’ve seen WHEN volunteers in blue shirts around town, at drug take-back events at the Town Hall, Above the Influence programs at Webster middle schools, and at Family Game Nights at our elementary schools.

A true community coalition, WHEN is comprised of more than 150 members representing multiple sectors of our community including business owners, faith-based organizations, youth, civic/volunteer groups, media, law enforcement, health care providers, substance use prevention professionals, and more. Their work is truly making a difference here in Webster. According to Youth Risk Behavior surveys conducted between 2017 and 2023, youth use of alcohol and marijuana has decreased by more than 50% over that period.

This year, through United Way’s ROC the Day, WHEN is asking for community support to help raise funds to support the group’s mission and continue their efforts to help our kids grow up strong and substance-free. On Tuesday Dec. 2, go to this website (or click on the QR code below) and please consider making a donation.

WHEN takes a positive approach to sharing prevention facts and strengthening protective factors which empower Webster kids to grow up strong and substance-free. From hosting parent forums to posting signs promoting healthy behaviors, and offering a website full of local resources, WHEN champions the health and well-being of all Webster youth. I hope you’ll join the fight with your donation.

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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 11/26/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

21 Apr

The Town of Webster invites community members to participate in a public workshop at 6 p.m. on Tuesday April 22, which will discuss the Town’s Comprehensive Plan Update. Learn about the purpose and benefits of comprehensive planning, get an overview of the update process and take part in a hands-on visioning session.

The workshop will be held at the Webster Recreation Center, 1350 Chiyoda Dr., beginning at 6 p.m. Visit Click here to visit the project website and learn more about it.

Get rid of those expired drugs

Webster Health & Education Network (WHEN), in partnership with The Town of Webster and the Webster Police Department, will hold a Spring Drug Take Back Event on Saturday April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Webster Justice Court Building, 1002 Ridge Rd. (Look for the blue roof behind Town Hall.)

This event helps residents prevent the misuse of potentially dangerous unused, unwanted, or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications by safely disposing of them.

Drug Take Back initiatives address a vital public safety and health issue. According to the DEA, rates of prescription drug misuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. The DEA also reports that Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines — flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash — both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Residents can visit: WHENdfcc.org/events for details or to register to receive a reminder email prior to the event. No appointment or registration is necessary to participate.

Visionaries to host seminar

The Visionaries, a support group for adults with low-to-no vision, will partner with University of Rochester’s Flaum Eye Institute to present a seminar on Ageing Eye Diseases on Wednesday May 7 at the Webster Public Library.

Many of us probably know someone who’s suffering from an eye disease. Age is a contributing factor leading to glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration that impacts one’s quality of life, leading to surrendering driver’s licenses and resulting isolation. Anyone interested in more information is invited to attend the presentation.

The seminar will begin at 1 p.m.

The Webster Arboretum Association, together with local growers and local garden clubs, will host the 2025 Webster Arboretum Plant Sale on Saturday May 10 from 8 a.m. to noon.

A tremendous variety of beautiful, healthy plants from standard to uncommon will be available including annuals, dwarf conifers, geraniums, dahlias, tomatoes, trees, shrubs and more. It’s a great way to celebrate spring and get some live plants perfectly suited for your garden. And don’t forget Mother’s Day!

This year’s vendors include:

  • Annee’s Greenhouse
  • Branches and Blooms Nursery
  • Coldwater Pond Nursery
  • Country Gardeners of Webster
  • Hazelmore Nursery
  • Iroquois Garden Club
  • Mill Creek Gardeners
  • Rochester Dahlia Society
  • Tomato Queen

The sale will be held at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. Webster.

And here’s another reminder that the Webster Arboretum will present a program on Thursday April 24 all about Orioles and Hummingbirds.

The presentation begins at 7 p.m. and will take place in the Curry Building. The Webster Arboretum is located at 1700 Schlegel Rd. Click here to RSVP and to learn about future Arboretum programs.

Learn about our cobblestone buildings

Ever wonder about those beautiful cobblestone homes and businesses that dot our town? You can learn more about them when the Webster Museum welcomes Walworth Town Historian Gene Bavis on Sunday May 18 to talk about these remarkable structures, which are scattered throughout many towns and villages in Webster New York.

The talk begins at 2 p.m. at the Webster Museum, 18 Lapham Park in the Village of Webster. No registration is necessary and free refreshments will be provided.

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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 4/21/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

4 Mar

I’ll begin today’s mailbag with a few new tidbits, then add some reminders about events I’ve mentioned earlier.

Library to host Special Needs Parent Resource Fair

The Webster Public Library will host its annual Special Needs Parent Resource Fair on Saturday April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. This event is especially for parents and caregivers who are looking for community resources to support their loved ones who have special needs.

In previous years, almost 60 organizations from all over the Rochester area have participated, and most will likely be returning this year. Click here to see last year’s participant list.

Autism Up will be set up in the Community Room with a sensory space, in case you need a breather and want to learn more about what they have to offer.

Registration is recommended if you’d like a reminder. Caregivers can come any time during the fair, and if you’re unable to attend, information about the attending organizations will be available by request.

The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd. at the rear of Webster Plaza.

Great new programs for 55+ at the Webster Recreation Center

I got my most recent 55+ newsletter from the Webster Rec the other day. It’s always got lots of great programs, but I especially like the Talks on Tuesday topics. Here’s this month’s lineup:

  • March 11: Medicare, by Sara Mason from Mason Wealth Management
    All the different pieces of Medicare can be confusing. This workshop will give you an understanding of what each piece means, when you can make changes and why you should review your plan annually.
  • March 18: The Big Bang, by NASA Ambassador Jim Porter
    Join NASA Ambassador Jim Porter to discover the rich heritage of NASA cosmic exploration and where the latest missions will be taking us into the future.
  • March 25: Maintaining Cognitive Health by psychologist Dr. Arianna Slotnick
    An engaging workshop filled with practical and enjoyable strategies to boost cognitive function and maintain brain health throughout your lifespan. You’ll leave with tangible tips and techniques you can implement immediately.

The Talks on Tuesdays are held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The programs are free but registration is required.

And here’s a brand new program at the Rec Center, called TAP TIME, held Fridays from March 21 through April 25 from 11:45 to 12:30 p.m. Whether standing or seated, Tap Time is a safe, fun way to stay active while enjoying upbeat tunes from Broadway and more. We will provide the slip-on taps used for class that fit right over any flat-bottomed shoe to create instant tap shoes. Cost is $30.

To find out about lots more programs and to register for any of these, click here to see the whole 55+ March newsletter.

Petitions Available for BOE Candidates

The Webster CSD Budget Vote and Election of Candidates is Tuesday, May 20 at Webster Schroeder High School. Anyone wishing to run for the board of education (BOE) may pick up a nominating packet from the district clerk’s office, 119 South Avenue, any weekday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Petitions must be returned to the district clerk’s office no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, April 21.

Questions about candidacy or eligibility may be referred to District Clerk Heather Murphy at (585) 216-0001 or heather_murphy@webstercsd.org during the office hours noted above.

There’s still time to enter WHEN headphone giveaway

FRIDAY, March 14 is the last day to enter the Beats headphone giveaway being sponsored by the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN).

It’s easy to enter; just visit @WHENdfcc on Instagram, and post a picture of you doing something happy and healthy, like going for a walk, playing a sport, etc. Comment and tag two friends, follow WHEN on Instagram and share the WHEN post to your story. See more about this great giveaway on Instagram or click here.

And don’t forget about the Thomas/Schroeder Charity Basketball Game on WEDNESDAY, March 12 at 6:30 p.m.  This is a super fun event pitting Webster Thomas and Schroeder staff members against each other in a basketball game which is more entertaining than skillful. Suggested donation of $5 at the door will benefit benefits WHEN.

Learn about insects at the Arboretum

You’ll want to check out this education program being hosted by the Webster Arboretum later this month.

Invasive Insects, Thursday March 20, 7 to 8 p.m.: Presented by Camille Caceci, the Invasive Species Project Coordinator with Finger Lakes PRISM. Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to our environment, and as scientific professionals, hobbyists, or passersby, we encounter them almost every day. But what makes a species invasive? How many are there? Learn more about them at this fascinating presentation.

WCCH Prom Party is April 5

The Webster Comfort Care Home is hosting an 80’s Prom and Dance Party on Saturday April 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Shadow Lake Golf Club, 1850 Five Mile Line Rd. Music will be provided by Hall Pass and DJ Lesh.

Tickets are $60 each or two for $100, and the first 20 guests get a VIP bag of goodies. There will also be a contest for King & Queen, Best Dressed, and Most Original.

Click here to purchase tickets.

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email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow mse 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 3/4/2025)

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Thomas vs. Schroeder charity basketball will benefit WHEN

24 Feb

A Thomas vs. Schroeder high school basketball game is always highly competitive and definitely worth watching. But the one happening on Wednesday March 12 should be … well, interesting, and dare I say, a little short on actual basketball talent.

It’s a Charity Basketball Game, scheduled for Wednesday night March 12 at Webster Thomas High School.

The family-friendly event will pit Thomas/OWL staff and faculty against Schroeder/GOAL staff and faculty in a friendly winner-take-all-bragging-rights game. Usually the game includes some super-fun halftime activities featuring competitions between Thomas/OWL students and Schroeder/GOAL students. Concessions will be available.

Suggestion donation for admission is just $5, and this year’s beneficiary is the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN), a community coalition which promotes healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in our Webster schools and greater community. Additional donations would also be greatly appreciated.

The game begins at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12 in the Webster Thomas High School gymnasium, 800 Five Mile Line Rd. Enter on the east side of the building, near the field house.

The schools’ PTSAs host this game every year. I haven’t been to one in a long time, but I do remember actually playing in one when I was working at Webster Thomas many years ago. What I remember most about it, actually (aside from how poorly I played) were the fun costumes and wigs that many of the teachers wore, and how much laughing there was. It was an enjoyable experience both on the court, and for everyone in the stands as well.

So make sure to mark your calendars for this fun night, and come out and support the Webster Health and Education Network in their effort to keep our kids safe and healthy.

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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 2/24/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

22 Feb

Looking ahead to events and warmer weather next month — and this coming summer — in today’s mailbag!

Win a pair of Beats headphones

In an effort to reach out to a younger audience and impress upon them the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) has instituted a Beats headphone giveaway via Instagram.

It’s easy to enter; just visit @WHENdfcc on Instagram, and post a picture of you doing something happy and healthy, like going for a walk, playing a sport, etc. Comment and tag two friends, follow WHEN on Instagram and share the WHEN post to your story. See more about this great giveaway on Instgram or click here.

Wednesday March 3 is the last day to enter.

Looking forward to summer!

Enough with this snow. Here’s something to help you look past all that.

The Webster Business Improvement District (BID) has announced its summer lineup of Friday night gazebo concerts, beginning in July:

  • July 18: The Earthtones
  • July 25: The Sarah DeValliere Band
  • Aug. 1: It’s My Party
  • Aug. 8: The Red Hot & Blue Band
  • Aug. 22: Eight Days a Week

Plus, the Webster Jazz Festival returns Aug. 15 and 16.

The gazebo concerts begin at 7 p.m. at Veterans Park on North Ave. and admission is free. Bring the whole family, some folding chairs and a blanket, and a cooler if you’d like, then enjoy some beautiful music. Check out the BID website to stay up to date on details for these and all this summer’s village events.

News from the Arboretum

The Webster Arboretum has a beautiful new website which is very much worth a few minutes to check out. The new design is very easy to navigate, highlighting the trails, gardens and wildlife which abound in this beautiful natural area.

Scroll down a bit to read about this year’s slate of educational programs, a different one every month through November, ranging from hummingbirds to lilacs, bonsai trees to hydrangeas.

I’ll let you know more about each of these as they get closer, but here’s what’s happening in March:

  • Invasive Insects, Thursday March 20, 7 to 8 p.m.: Presented by Camille Caceci, the Invasive Species Project Coordinator with Finger Lakes PRISM. Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to our environment, and as scientific professionals, hobbyists, or passersby, we encounter them almost every day. But what makes a species invasive? How many are there? Learn more about them at this fascinating presentation.

The presentation will take place at the Curry Building at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. Prior registration is requested for all these programs. They’re all free and will be held rain or shine. Visit the Webster Arboretum website for more information and to register.

And ALSO, mark your calendars now for the Arboretum’s annual Spring Plant Sale, Saturday May 10 from 8 a.m. to noon.

Women’s Club March luncheon will feature Webster history

Sharon Pratt from the Webster Museum will be the guest speaker at the next Women’s Club of Webster luncheon, Thursday March 20 at the Nutcracker Family Restaurant, 2159 Empire Blvd., Webster. Sharon will speak about what life was like for women in Webster’s early days.

The event begins at 11:15 a.m. with social time, followed by lunch at noon and Sharon’s presentation. Enjoy a buffet featuring roast beef, roasted chicken, rice pilaf, pasta primavera, salad, hot mixed vegetables, hot and cold beverages and warm camaraderie.

Cost of the luncheon is $25. Send check made out to WCW by March 13 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, 14519. If you have any questions, or you think your check will be late, phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303. New members are always welcome.

WCSD prekindergarten lottery is open

Registration for Webster Central School District’s 2024-25 prekindergarten lottery is now available online. Registrations will be accepted through Friday, March 14 at 10 a.m. Children who are 4 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2025 but who are not eligible for kindergarten, are eligible for prekindergarten enrollment for the upcoming school year.

Webster CSD PreK is a play-based program that engages students in social and emotional skills with a heavy emphasis on communication. The district offers both full-day and half-day options for families. Locations are determined by the lottery and according to the child’s home catchment for kindergarten.

For more information and to complete registration, please visit Webster CSD’s prekindergarten web page at www.websterschools.org/prek.

Lots to do in March at the library

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening at the Webster Public Library in March:

  • Vintage Book Sale, Saturday March 22, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop more than 200 fiction and non-fiction books, published between the 19th and early 21st centuries. Prices begin at $8.
  • The free community exchange in March is GAMES. Bring in a game that you don’t use anymore, and pick up a new one!
  • The Donation Station in March will benefit the Webster Public Library’s very own Free Food Pantry, located on the sidewalk right by the front door. Bring in non-perishable food items to help keep the pantry stocked.
  • The Seed Library will be open for the season on Monday March 3

For adults:

  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Saturday March 1, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Celebrate the Emerald Isle with music from the band Merriwick, Irish tea and beautiful pictures of Ireland! Registration is required.
  • Growing Orchids in Rochester, Saturday March 8, 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Learn about orchids and how to grow them in Rochester in anticipation of the 2025 Genesee Region Orchid Show. Registration is required.

For teens and tweens:

  • Make It Monday: Glass Bead Suncatchers, Monday March 10, 6 to 7 p.m. Grades 4 and up are welcome. Registration is requested.
  • Teen Library Club, Wednesday March 26, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Hang out with your friends and get more involved in the library and the community. For grades 6 to 12. Registration is requested.

For kids and families:

  • Flute Storytime, Saturday March 15, 2 to 2:30 p.m. Join flutist Jaclyn Breeze for a 30-minute program featuring two picture books and flute pieces. No registration required.
  • Spring Equinox Drop-In Crafts in the storytime room. Friday March 21 and Saturday March 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All ages are welcome and registration is not required.

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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 2/22/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

1 Feb

The Webster Central School District and Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) are hosting an encore presentation of Navigating the Tween Years: Social Media & Your Kid. This is an interactive parent forum discussing how technology has changed social development and what you can do to support your child’s health and well-being in a tech-powered world.

The event is Tuesday, February 4, 6:30-8 p.m. at Klem Road South Elementary School, 1025 Klem Road, Webster. Open to all Webster parents and guardians, but adults only, please. Click here to learn more.
Join us! Learn more at WHENdfcc.org/events.

*****

Color Webster Green will host a Heat Pumps 101 seminar this coming Wednesday, exploring the transformative power of heat pumps.

Learn how these innovative systems provide efficient and eco-friendly heating and cooling. This presentation is given by local residents Rebecca Collins, Jon Randall and Allen Hibner, who can discuss their personal experiences with heat pumps.

The event will be held at the Webster Public Library Community Room from 6 to 7:30 p.m. There’s no charge. The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd. at the back of Webster Plaza.

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The Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters (WSPS) will hold a Spaghetti Dinner at the Webster Masonic Temple, 30 Orchard St., on Friday Feb. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Dinner includes spaghetti, meatballs, salad, bread, drink and dessert. Meat, meatless and garlic sauce options will be available. For takeout call 585-872-3500.

Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for kids 12 and under. All proceeds will benefit the WSPS, a group of volunteers who provide transportation for retirees and disabled residents who live within the Webster School District. They help residents get to and from medical and dental appointments, and provide rides to pharmacies, banks, barbers, hairdressers and tax preparation services.

*****

Here’s a quick run-down of what’s happening at the Webster Public Library this month:

For kids and families:

  • Celebrate Dental Health Month with Dr. DeLucia from Webster Pediatric Dentistry. Tues. Feb. 25 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. She’ll give a presentation about dental health and keeping our teeth clean. She’ll have lots of fun props, including a giant toothbrush and giant teeth, lots of giveaways and a chance to dress up as a dentist yourself. Registration is required.

For teens and tweens:

  • Make it Monday: Yarn-Wrapped Hearts, Monday Feb. 10, 6 to 7 p.m. Make yarn-wrapped hearts at this month’s craft night. Grades 4 and up and adults are welcome. Registration is requested.
  • Teen Library Club, Wednesday Feb. 26 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For teens who like books, games, crafts, sharing your ideas, taking surveys, food, hanging out with friends, and becoming more involved in your library and the community. For grades 6 to 12, and registration is requested.

For adults:

  • Learn About Tuskegee Airman Leland “Sticky” Pennington, Thursday Feb. 13, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. On April 21, 1945, the Tuskegee Airman took off on a flight in his P-51 Mustang, named ‘Lucy Gal.’ World War II was drawing near a close, but his service as a bomber escort pilot was needed. En route to the mission, Pennington went missing in action and he has never been found. Registration is required.
  • The Black Church: In Plain Sight but Invisible, Tuesday Feb. 4, 2 to 4 p.m. The physical presence of the Black Church is a familiar aspect of American history and current events. Dr. Timothy Johnson leads his audience beyond the superficial into an in-depth historical overview of the Black Church. Registration is required.

This month’s Community Exchange is jewelry! Bring in some pieces you don’t wear any more and pick up something new. And while you’re there, consider donating some wet or dry dog or cat food to the Webster Pet Food Pantry, this month’s Donation Station beneficiary.

And I’ll be writing more about this soon, but also, the Rochester Regional Mobile Mammogram Unit is coming to the library parking lot on Thursday, Feb. 27. Sign up for your spot on Feb. 10 at the library, but if you can’t make it to register, some walk-ins will be accepted on the 27th. No insurance is required.

More to come about this tremendous opportunity.

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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 2/1/2025)

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WHEN hosts series to help parents navigate the tween years

14 Jan

No doubt about it, raising kids is hard. The tween years can be especially challenging, when school academics and social interactions become more stressful, kids face pressure to experiment with drugs and smoking, and family dynamics seem to change every day.

The Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) recognizes these challenges and has come up with a series of programs to bring parents, caregivers and professionals together to discuss ways to deal with them. The interactive forums, hosted in partnership with the Webster Central School District, are called Navigating the Tween Years. They’re designed to help parents of tweens prepare their kids to thrive, even in a world where adolescent anxiety and mental health challenges are on the rise.

The series features three events:

  • From Worries to Wellness: Building resilience in a stressful world on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Professional Development Center at Spry Middle School, 119 South Avenue, Webster;
  • Social Media & Your Kid: How tech is changing social development on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Klem Road South Elementary School, 1025 Klem Road, Webster; and
  • Empowering Your Family: Harness the power of protective factors on Wednesday, April 30, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Professional Development Center at Spry Middle School, 119 South Avenue, Webster.

The focus of these events is on the tween years, but all parents are welcome to bring their questions and experiences to share. The forums will use a World Cafe model, designed to engage participants in discussion, so bring an open heart and willingness to share, learn, and support other parents while growing your parent network.

The series kicked off in October with an evening of community coffee and conversation on the topic “Social Media and Your Kid.” Presenters included: Joe Montemaro, Webster CSD Director of Educational Technology and Information/Communications; Dana Buccieri, WHEN member and a retired Webster CSD school counselor; and Dustin Bailey, WHEN member, Webster CSD Unified bowling coach, and Young Life representative. Together, they led discussions on how technology has changed social development in tweens, and how parents can help their children develop the soft skills they may be missing. The event proved so valuable that this additional session has been scheduled.  

Parents do NOT need to have attended any prior sessions to attend one or all of the remaining sessions. 

This event is for adults only, children will not be permitted. There is no charge for attending, but please register in advance so they know how many are coming. For more details or to register, visit WHENdfcc.org/events. You can also email your questions to info@whendfcc.org.

About WHEN: 

WHEN (Webster Health and Education Network) is a network of Webster community members linked through awareness, education, and action. We assess community conditions and develop appropriate strategies to reduce early drug and alcohol exposure. Research suggests that the longer youth wait to use drugs and/or alcohol, the less likely it is that they will become addicted later in life. Therefore, WHEN’s goal as a community coalition is to collaborate with our partners to delay, decrease, and prevent substance use among youth. Together we can reduce high-risk behavior, increase protective factors, raise awareness, and strengthen community collaboration. All Webster residents, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to join us in this cause and can reach our Executive Director, Janine Sanger at: director@WHENdfcc.org.

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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 1/14/2025)

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Webster Health & Education Network receives grant

11 Oct

One of the organizations I’ve gotten involved with as I’ve become more connected with the Webster community is the Webster Health & Education Network (WHEN), which recently received some exciting news.

Since it was established in 1995, WHEN has become a leader in the advocacy and promotion of healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in the Webster community. The organization works closely with the Webster Central School District, town and community resources to support drug education and awareness initiatives. The goal is to delay, decrease and prevent substance abuse among youth, because research suggests that the longer youth wait to use drugs and/or alcohol, the less likely it is that they’ll become addicted later in life.

​Aside from that important mission, one of the things I really like about WHEN is that it is truly a community effort. The coalition now boasts 146 members, representing business owners, faith-based organizations, youth, civic/volunteer groups, media, law enforcement, health care providers, substance use prevention professionals and others.

Recently, the great work that WHEN does was confirmed when the organization was awarded a $625,000 federal grant from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) under the Drug-Free Communities Support Program. The grant will allow WHEN to continue its efforts to build a safe, healthy, and drug-free community.

WHEN received their first federal grant from the ONDCP in December 2019. That $625,0000 grant, received over five years, was used to involve and engage the community to empower Webster youth to grow up strong and substance-free. The second and final grant will again be received over five years, and will begin in December of 2024 to continue and expand their efforts.

During the past five years, WHEN has expanded partnerships, provided in-person and online community resources, organized events, incorporated youth feedback, increased community awareness, and advocated for smoke-free parks and reasonable cannabis restrictions. Improving trendlines in alcohol use, vaping, and cannabis use by Webster students, as shown in recent Youth Risk Behavior Surveys, suggests that youth may be benefiting from these efforts. 

To find out more about the Webster Health & Education Network, and how you can become a part of the coalition’s important mission to keep our kids off drugs, click here.

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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 10/11/2024)

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Webster community mailbag

19 Sep

It’s chicken BBQ time again!

St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold its Fall Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ on Saturday, Sept. 21 at the church, 813 Bay Road, Webster. The event begins at 4:30 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.

Upcoming October blood drives

There are several local opportunities coming up in October for you to help save lives by donating blood. And the Red Cross has a neat little promotion, too. Everyone coming to donate during October will receive a $10 gift card by email.

Here are the details:

  • Tuesday Oct. 1, noon to 5 p.m., Expressive Beginnings Child Care Center, 12 May St., Webster (online sponsor code: ExpressiveBeginnings)
  • Wednesday Oct. 2, 1 to 6 p.m., Webster Golf Club, 440 Salt Rd. (sponsor code: WGC)
  • Thursday Oct. 10, 1 to 6 p.m., Webster Fire Dept. Exempt Building, 172 Sanford St. (sponsor code: websterfire) The Women’s Club of Webster will be serving homemade cookies for donors at this drive!
  • Wednesday Oct. 16, 1 to 6 p.m., Town of Penfield offices, 2130 Penfield Rd. (sponsor code: Penfield)

Call 1-800-RED CROSS to schedule your appointment, or search online for the sponsor code.

And about those cookies …

At the Red Cross blood drive on Oct. 10 (see above), donors will be rewarded with supremely scrumptious homemade cookies donated by the Women’s Club of Webster to enjoy with their juice.

Appointments are not required. Feel free to just drop in. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Katie Hout, American Red Cross, 585-353-9964 (or you can schedule an appointment online. Details above).

The Women’s Club of Webster is an active community service organization that has nurtured friendships and generously supported many worthwhile causes for 60 years.  The group meets the third Thursday of each month from September to June.  The club’s motto is “friendship through service” and new members are always welcome!  

For more information about the club, please contact Carolyn Rittenhouse at 585-265-1303. (Or feel free to email me; I belong to the club).

Celebrate fall at Heritage Square

Heritage Square Museum in Ontario will host its annual Fall Festival on Saturday Sept. 28 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors will enjoy scarecrows to judge, big trucks from Town Highway, fire and police departments, performances from the Strike It Up Community Band directed by Craig Wirt, a saxophone quartet, games, raffles, free tours, food and more. Cost is $5 per car.

Heritage Square Museum is located at 7147 Ontario Center Road, Ontario, just 12 minutes east of the Village of Webster. Haven’t heard about this great attraction? Check out this blog which I wrote a few years ago after my first visit.

Webster BID schedules community events

The Webster Business Improvement District’s (BID) second annual Health and Wellness Fair has been scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Village Community Meeting Room, 29 South Ave.

This is a free event which showcases the businesses and professionals throughout our community that address all aspects of health and wellness. Last year’s event was a great success, and this year is expected to be even bigger.

ON THAT SAME DAY, in the parking lot behind the Community Meeting Room, the BID is also sponsoring a shredding event from 9 to 11 a.m.

This is a free, drive-through event. Paper only will be accepted, 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.

(By the way, stay tuned for details about the next Beer Walk, scheduled for Saturday Oct. 19 from 4 to 7 p.m., and the Trick-or-Treat Trail on Saturday, Oct. 26. More details about these and other events can be found on the newly revamped Webster BID website.

Good, cheap books from the Friends

The Friends of the Webster Public Library are getting ready for their fall book sale, scheduled Oct. 16 through 19 at the library, 980 Ridge Rd. (at the rear side of the plaza).

This year they’ll be including a mini vintage and collectible book sale during members night. on Wednesday Oct. 16, featuring approximately 80 books published over the last 150 years in good to better condition. The books will be for sale at fixed prices starting at $8.00. Some of the books will be first editions or early printing. Many will have dust jackets, and a few will be autographed (but note the Webster Friends do not have any signatures authenticated). They’ll also be selling Kittelberger Flower Bouquet Cards that night while supplies last.

Members Night will be Wednesday, Oct. 16 from 4 to 7 p.m. (Memberships will be available at the door.) The general public sale begins Thursday, Oct. 17 from 9 to 7 p.m.; hardcover books will cost $1, paperback books only $.50). Friday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. will be the Bag Sale. Bring your own bag and fill it for just $5. The sale concludes with a second Bag Day on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. 

Can you help?

Here’s the September/October wish list from Webster Hope:

  • Canned corn and canned peas
  • Flour and sugar
  • Coffee
  • Cooking oil
  • Pasta, NOT whole wheat
  • Jarred spaghetti sauce
  • Body wash and bar soap
  • Hand soap
  • Deodorant
  • Lotion
  • Diapers sizes 5, 6, & 7 ** We accept open packages**
  • Baby wipes
  • New socks and underwear all sizes

Plus, they accept open packages of feminine products, adult diapers and children’s diapers.

And put this on your calendar: Webster Hope will be having a food drive on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon, sponsored by Webster Rotary. You can drop off your items (and the wish-list items) behind Holy Trinity Church, 1460 Ridge Road, Webster.

WHEN to offer program for parents about social media

If you’ve ever had any concerns about how social media is affecting your children and what you can do about that, this program is for you.

On Wednesday Oct. 16, the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) will present an interactive parent forum, called Social Media and Your Kid, discussing how technology has changed special development and what you can do to support your child’s health and well-being in a tech-powered world.

The forum will be held in the Professional Development Center at Spry Middle School, 119 South Ave. There’s no admission, but registration is requested. Click here to do so.

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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 9/19/2024)

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WHEN-sponsored programs helping keep kids safe and drug-free

12 May

Today I’ll be focusing my blog on a great organization of which I am an active member — the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN), and some of the events they have coming up for parents.

WHEN is a community coalition which for 25 years has been a recognized leader in the advocacy and promotion of healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in the Webster community. Research suggests that the longer youth wait to use drugs and/or alcohol, the less likely it is that they’ll become addicted later in life. Therefore, WHEN’s goal is to collaborate with the agency’s partners to delay, decrease, and prevent substance use among youth. 

The coalition works closely with the Webster Central School District, town and community to support drug education and awareness initiatives, like these:

Coffee & Conversation: Navigating the Tween Years

On Wednesday May 22, from 6:30-8:00 PM, WHEN will present a free forum for parents and guardians of kids in (roughly) 3rd through 6th grade. Using a World Cafe model, participants will explore creative solutions to some of today’s parenting challenges. Everyone will take home prevention strategies to help kids manage stress, dodge “frienemies,” avoid substance use, and stay healthy as they mature. The program will include discussion and sharing of ideas among parents to help participants grow their parent network and benefit from each other’s experiences.

The event will be held at Webster Parks and Recreation, 1350 Chiyoda Dr.  Please RSVP so there will be enough seating, coffee and snacks for everyone. Click here for more information.

Free Movie Event

On Thursday May 30 from 5:30-7:30 PM, the Smoking and Health Action Coalition of Livingston and Monroe Counties will host a smoke-free movie event for families at the Webster Public Library, featuring The Lorax. There’ll be pizza, drinks and giveaways, and the event is open to all. The library is located at 980 Ridge Rd., at the back of Webster Plaza.

DEA Drug Take-Back Event a success

On April 27, WHEN partnered with the Town of Webster and the Webster Police Department to hold DEA National Drug Take Back event at the Webster Justice Court. I just four hours, the team collected over 400 pounds (5-1/2 barrels) of medications which were then safely disposed of.

The whole idea of these events is to keep drugs from falling into the wrong hands, protecting loved-ones, neighbors, friends, and strangers from accidental exposure or misuse, so thank you everyone who came by. If you missed this take-back, there will be others, but in the meantime, find alternative disposal options here.

Lots of fun had at Community Arts Day

The WHEN table at Community Arts Day on April 13 was very busy. WHEN volunteers shared information about protective factors with parents while their kids decorated undersea creatures with some of their favorite ways to “octopi” their time, prompting conversations about healthy activities. They also handed out an an informative flyer with additional suggestions for healthy family fun and links to more info about protective factors and conversation starters.

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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 5/12/2024)

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