We are celebrating with some of our Chamber members that have met the challenges of growing and succeeding in their efforts.
Each year the Chamber celebrates major anniversaries of our members that have been in business for 25 years or more. We do this in 5-year increments.
Because of the Governor’s restrictions, the Chamber couldn’t hold our 2020 breakfast and we didn’t recognize anniversaries in 2020. This year we are recognizing those milestones from 2020 & 2021.
In the ups and downs of our economy, particularly in the last year, businesses, large and small, have had to reorganize, downsize, or simply “go out of business.”
As Chamber members are considered the best of the best, we want to recognize our members for their success and longevity – this year we have 13 businesses present and another 31 Chamber member businesses celebrating milestone anniversaries.
Congratulations to every one of them!
The businesses and organizations honored at the Webster Chamber of Commerce breakfast were:
Webster Health & Education Network (WHEN) – 25 Years
Chris Ross Agency – 25 years
Corretore Law Offices – 35 Years
Dancing with Denise – 35 Years
Offices of Thomas DiSalvo – 35 Years
Gerber Homes – 40 Years
Lakefront Soccer Club – 45 Years
Reliant Credit Union – 50 Years
Summit Federal Credit Union – 80 Years
R.D. Specialties – 85 Years
The Foley Agency – 100 Years
Village of Webster New York – 115 years
Town of Webster New York – 180 Years
Webster Health & Education Network (WHEN) - 25 Years
The Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) was established in 1995 and is a recognized leader in the advocacy and promotion of healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in the Webster community. WHEN has always worked closely with the Webster Central School District, town, and community resources to support drug education and awareness initiatives.
In 2018, WHEN joined the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) and became Webster Health and Education Network: A Drug Free Community Coalition (WHEN:DFCC). The coalition was awarded a federal grant by The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) in December of 2019. The $625,0000 grant, received over five years, will be used to involve, and engage our community to empower Webster kids to grow up strong and substance free.
WHEN:DFCC is comprised of over 60 members representing multiple sectors of our community including business owners, faith-based organizations, youth, civic & volunteer groups, media, law enforcement, health care providers, and substance use prevention professionals.
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, the community coalition goal is to collaborate with the partners to prevent substance use among youth as much as possible. WHEN:DFCC is thankful to have served the Webster community for the past 25 years and looks forward to impacting the lives of our young people for years to come.
Congratulations to the Coalition on this milestone of 25 years in 2020!
Diane McClure, Board Chair-Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Janine Sanger (R) with Webster Health & Education Network's Anniversary Award
Chris Ross joined the Webster Chamber in 1996 when he became an agent with Liberty Mutual managing the Baytown office, where he earned recognition in top 10 in personal insurance lines for 5 years.
In 2008, Chris partnered with State Farm becoming an agency owner enabling him to serve customers with insurance but also financial services, including business owners.
The agency has been recognized by State Farm as a top 1% of all agents with investment planning services. Chris has received numerous industry awards including NAIFA quality awards and is a member of the Million Dollar Round Table, a worldwide association of the top 1% of financial professionals.
Chris’ community involvement includes past chair of Seneca Parks Zoobilation, Salvation Army’s Gold for Kids, Webster Sports Booster Club, Boy Scouts of America, and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
Putting people in our community in a better place through education and protecting their future is what fuels the passion in the Chris Ross Agency.
Helping the Agency achieve the mission and vision includes Bob Ross, Chris’ dad, who handles marketing (and provides wise insight, coaching, and a sounding board); David Fitzsimmons, responsible for growth and acquisition and a future agent, and Gabby Probst, keeping everything organized, attending to details, and always servicing customers with a smile!
Chris loves running the agency in his hometown, helping his neighbors and fellow businesses!
Congratulations to the Chris Ross Agency on 25 years in business!
Diane McClure, Board Chair - Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Chris Ross of Chris Ross Agency
Corretore Law Offices - 35 Years
The Law Offices are in Webster Village at the corner of East Main Street and Kircher Park. The firm currently employs two attorneys - David T. Corretore and Neil P. Mclaughlin, along with a paralegal and a receptionist/bookkeeper.
From the start in 1985, personal touch and commitment were the firm’s philosophy and that remains the case today. Word of mouth, their listing on the Chamber’s website directory and Google are their preferred forms of advertising.
The practice concentrates in the areas of real estate, estates, wills, and elder law.
Corretore Law Office has been a Chamber member since 1986. David served on the Chamber Board as Vice-President in the mid 1990's.
David has reached the point where his 3 grandchildren (soon to be 4 grandchildren) are the focus of his attention, while attorney Neil Mclaughlin's attention is on his twin daughters who are almost 2 years old.
They both (the attorneys, not necessarily the twins) look forward to the continuation of Corretore Law Offices for many, many more years to come.
Congratulations to Corretore Law Offices on their 35 year anniversary in 2020.
Diane McClure, Board Chair of the Webster Chamber of Commerce presents Anniversary Award to David Corretore of Corretore Law Offices
Dancing with Denise - 35 Years
Dancing with Denise was established in 1985 when Denise Baller began teaching dance to children in daycare centers in the Rochester area. In the mid-90’s, she opened a dance studio in Irondequoit adding evening and Saturday classes for her expanding student age group.
Her motto of “Having Fun is our Philosophy”, Dancing with Denise is well-known for promoting fun, good health and confidence in a non-pressure, non-competitive dance environment. Her students range from 2-year-old dancers to 90-year-old Zumba enthusiasts. Boys and girls enjoy classes in tap, ballet, jazz, acrobatics, and baton. Denise also teaches a class with special needs students. In addition to traditional classes, which end with lively dance recitals, she offers camps and classes during the summer.
You will see the Dancing with Denise crew at farmer’s markets, Sea Breeze Dance Days, and local parades. Her family fun philosophy includes Birthday Parties, Family Fun Nights, Kids’ Date Night, and Tea Parties.
For the past 15 years she has been the host of the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, preparing approximately 75 local students to perform in the ballet. Denise also organizes an annual trip to see the Rockettes in NYC at Christmas for parents and students.
Denise says she is delighted to have settled in Webster and would like to thank her husband, Billy for all his support and dedication in renovating the dance studio on Gravel Rd. Denise credits her parents for their unending support and for her strong work ethic.
Denise has been a member of the Chamber since 2013 and is currently the Chair of the Membership Events & Honors Committee.
Congratulations to Dancing with Denise, celebrating their 35 year milestone in 2020!
Diane McClure - Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (R) presents Anniversary Award to Denise Baller & Bill Baller (R) of Dancing with Denise
Offices of Thomas DiSalvo - 35 Years
Thomas J. DiSalvo Esq., P.C. is a professional corporation engaged in the general practice of law. Tom began his law career in 1983, after graduating from Syracuse University College of Law and St. John Fisher College.
His firm maintained an office in the City of Rochester and in the Town of Irondequoit until 1998 when the firm moved to its present location at 672 Ridge Road, Webster.
In addition to the law office, Tom is currently one of Webster’s Town Justices.
The firm handles a wide range of legal matters, including residential and commercial real estate closings, criminal defense, divorce, wills, health care proxies, estates, trusts, vehicle & traffic, general litigation, trials and appeals.
Tom is a member of the Monroe County Bar Association and he notes that there is no charge for an initial consultation.
Congratulations to DiSalvo Law Firm on 35 years serving our community!
Diane Mcclure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Thomas DiSalvo (R) of Offices of Thomas DiSalvo
Gerber Homes have been building homes for families with quality, care, and experience. These principals are the foundation of the Gerber Homes Team.
Founded in 1981, Gerber Homes has been a long-time leader in Western New York, regularly ranked among the “Top 5” builders by the Rochester Business Journal.
Although Gerber Homes is one of the largest privately owned area builders, that doesn’t mean they are “too big” to get to know every one of their customers. Understanding the home building process allows Gerber Homes to provide customers with a pleasurable building experience.
Congratulations to the Gerber Homes for celebrating 40 years of building!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to (Left to Right) Bruce Gerber and John Graziose of Gerber Homes
Lakefront Soccer Club - 45 Years
Lakefront Soccer Club was established in 1976 and is a non-profit 501(c)3. Their programs are designed to support the beginner to the advanced players. The goal is to learn the game of soccer and the advantages of teamwork while having fun!
The club hosts the Lakefront Classic Showcase annually drawing over 300 teams from all over the east coast and Canada!
Lakefront Soccer Club is one of the largest youth soccer organizations in New York that owns its own indoor soccer facility. The Lakefront Indoor Complex, located at 865 Publishers Pkwy, has a 40x70 yard artificial surface, plus a viewing deck, office, team rooms, and classroom. They have also added Lakefront Park, located at 1645 Boulter Industrial Pkwy, which boasts 9 grass fields adding to their other 12 outdoor soccer fields including the full-size Boulter Championship Field (a lighted field with an irrigation/drainage system, bleachers, press box, and concession stand) and the beautifully pitched and maintained Basket Road fields.
In addition to Dan Prosser, the Executive Director, who oversees the daily operations of the association including the indoor complex management and fields/building maintenance, the Lakefront Soccer Club staff also includes Director of Coaching, Jesse Myers, and Complex Manager, Kyle DeBrine, who is also currently the Interim Director of Recreational Soccer.
Numerous Lakefront Soccer Club coaches are licensed by the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer Association.
The have diverse soccer programs include year-round training for over 2,000 + participants for all age groups.
Congratulations to the Lakeshore Soccer Club for providing our youth with valuable training and fun for 45 years!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Kyle DeBrine of Lakefront Soccer Club (R)
Reliant Credit Union - 50 Years
Reliant Credit Union was established in 1970 as WCTA Federal Credit Union, serving teachers in Wayne County. At that time, the mood of the banking system was not necessarily favorable to teachers and school employees. Teachers, who worked ten months of the year, might need loans in the summer months to tide them over until the new school year, but because they were regarded as part-time employees, some banks were reluctant to meet their lending needs.
After discussions in the 1969-1970 school year, members of the Wayne County Teachers Association determined they would move forward to form a credit union benefiting the teachers and employees in Wayne County schools. Choosing the teachers association as its namesake, WCTA applied to the National Credit Union Administration and the original charter for WCTA Federal Credit Union was received in August of 1970.
The objective from day one was to provide members with better rates and services in a personal, professional, and friendly manner. The members’ needs always came first, and the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” was the backbone of the organization.
A change in legislation in 1988 allowed WCTA to serve employees of area businesses and members of community organizations in both Wayne and Ontario County. In 2004, they adopted a community charter, making them able to serve anyone who lives, works, attends school, worships, or volunteers in Wayne, Ontario, or Monroe County.
In 2007, the credit union changed its name to Reliant to reflect its expanded membership base. At that time, Reliant formally adopted its culture of Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork. The ART culture represents the exceptional service to one another and to members that credit union staff are known for and expect.
Throughout the years, the way that Reliant serves and helps people has evolved, but the credit union’s core values and the “people helping people” philosophy remain constant in all that Reliant does.
Congratulations to Reliant on 50 years of community service!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Reliant Credit Union Pamela Heald (R)
Summit Federal Credit Union - 80 Years
They weren’t always call The Summit. Since their founding in 1941, The Summit has experienced tremendous growth, and even a name change! The idea of establishing a credit union for Rochester Telephone Company employees was first discussed in 1937 and on July 16, 1941, the Rochester Telephone Federal Credit Union was officially organized. The first office was in the Triangle Building in downtown Rochester.
By the end of the 1940s, there were over 1,000 members of the Rochester Telephone Federal Credit Union. It grew, adding deposits, loans, and members and in the 50’s, they opened a new office on Stone Street and a new headquarters in the Sibley Tower building and assets reached a million dollars.
As the 1960’s began, the Credit Union continued to see steady growth in membership and assets. As the employee count grew, staff benefits, including the creation of a retirement plan, were added.
The 70’s added many new products and services, keeping pace with other financial institutions. Additional member companies were brought on board, expanding to dozens of large employer groups in Rochester.
In the 1980’s, the credit union began a new era under the name of The Summit Federal Credit Union allowing more employer groups, a branch network with new locations, a computer system and ATMs. Assets increased to approximately 100 million dollars.
Growth continued with new products for children and teens, the 50th anniversary and doubling their assets. They joined hands with 4 other credit unions, added branches in Brighton, Hilton and Henrietta, a relocation to Penfield, and added shared branching allowing members seamless access nationally. In 2019 assets reached one billion dollars.
Today, The Summit has 15 branches across markets in Western & Central NY including Syracuse and Cortland. The Summit continues to maintain a strong financial position and has remained true to its longstanding legacy of service to help “improve our member’s lives”.
Congratulations to The Summit on their 80-year milestone anniversary!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Christine Ferraraccio & Christine Strazzeri of Summit Federal Credit Union
Richard Krasucki established R.D. Specialties in 1936. He started the business as a part time venture during the depression while working at Rochester Products and substituting at the Rochester Post Office.
Over the years the company tailored its products to fit changing customer needs. Dedication to customers’ needs resulted in steady growth.
Richard’s son, Douglas Krasucki, assumed management of the business in the early 70's and bought the business in 1976.
1999 was an important milestone for R.D. Specialties when it acquired H&W Metering Bar Co., a long-time competitor. Both operations were combined at the 560 Salt Road facility.
Doug’s son, Peter Krasucki, assumed management of the business in 2005 and bought the business in 2012.
Companies worldwide come to R.D. Specialties for their superior quality, service, and delivery. The company’s founder developed this reputation, and the current owner and employees are proud to uphold it.
Congratulations to RD Specialties on their 85th year in business!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Doug Krasucki of R.D. Specialties
The Harold K Foley Insurance & Real Estate Company first opened its doors on 9 East Main Street in 1921. At that time, we’re sure Harold had no idea he was starting a family legacy that would continue in the same location for four generations and 100 years.
After his untimely death in 1949, his wife Dorthea, stepped in to run the business. Tom Foley, her son joined her at the agency in the late 1950’s. After working 50 years and earning a “businesswoman of the year” award, Dorthea finally turned the reins over to her son. Tom then brought Brendan, his son in law, into the office. Eventually, Tom sold the office to Brendan, but not before putting in his own 50 plus years!
Brendan’s daughter, Meghan joined the agency in 2014. She and Brendan worked together to implement the use of emerging technologies, so the agency was ready to take on the challenges that come with the faster paced lives we all lead. After Brendan’s passing, Meghan’s sister, Sheila, started at the agency. Her background in physics and quality engineering paired with Meghan’s communications background bring an analytical and educational approach to insurance coverages. The agency is women owned again, for the first time in more than 40 years, and they plan to uphold the family name through honesty, knowledge, and hard work—all while in heels!
The family energy can certainly be felt upon stepping into the office. Personal attention and service is the reason their agency continues to thrive. They feel that the only way to provide proper coverage is to personally know their clients. Though they may bicker like sisters, they will care for you like family.
Happy 100th anniversary to the Foley Agency!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Sheila Hanna (C) and Meghan Bloom (R) of The Foley Agency
Village of Webster New York - 115 Years
The year 1900 marked a significant turning point in the development of the Village. The first bank since Civil War times was established, and the Rochester Sodus Bay Trolley connected Webster to Rochester, leading to a major expansion of the Village residential area (the present-day Lapham Park, Elm Street, Dunning Avenue and Park Avenue section of the Village).
The various demands of this bustling “Village” led many to call for greater organization. With several neighboring villages officially incorporated, smaller than Webster, it seemed logical that Webster should too. In an 1899 editorial “Why Not Incorporate,” the Webster Herald explored the pros and cons of the Village gaining separate legal status. Although taxes would increase, the article points out that property values would increase because of the benefits a Village government could provide. With incorporation, much-needed services such as a fire department, streetlights, and a water system could be established, and Village roads were in desperate need of improvement. The Herald printed a similar editorial in 1904 as the prospect of a vote on incorporation was on the horizon.
On February 19, 1904, twenty Village residents met to discuss incorporation, and decided to petition the Town of Webster to hold an election. In June 1904, the issue was decided in favor of incorporation by one vote. The vote was contested in court and the final appeal called for another vote. The second election passed by 27 votes and on March 26, 1905, the Board of Trustees held its first meeting. The first meeting’s business included the proper elections, appointments, maps, and paperwork necessary to organize the new Village.
Today, the Village of Webster is thriving and bustling. The Village Office has a staff of four and the Department of Public Works has 12 employees serving the Village 24/7. The village population of approximately 5300 is governed by the Village Board of Trustees that include the mayor and 4 other elected trustees.
Congratulations to the Village of Webster for serving the community for 115 years!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Village Trustee Jude Lancy (C) and Heather Halstead (R) of the Village of Webster New York
Town of Webster New York - 180 Years
The township was named after the great orator, Daniel Webster. Favorable soil conditions and climate contributed to Webster’s growth as a prosperous center for fruit growing, food processing and evaporating industries. Webster also had an ashing industry that produced large amounts of potash that was shipped to Canada to make soap. Salt Road was named for large deposits of salt. Farmland was eventually replaced with many unique businesses.
Today, the Town’s Parks and Recreation Department provides activities for all ages. Programs are designed to promote fitness, offer social interactions, and provide fun for all. The Parks & Recreation Department building that we are in today has a gymnasium, fitness equipment, racquet ball courts, men’s and women’s locker rooms and plenty of space for programs. The Town parks offer many opportunities for activities and playgrounds and are filled with fun equipment.
The Webster Arboretum offers events throughout the year. There are trails throughout the manicured grounds and the two gazebos offer a place for quite reflection and are a lovely place for wedding photos and family gatherings. The 41,000 square foot public library has an extensive array of materials for loan, story hours and programs for all ages and the library has a large community room.
Webster is fortunate to have its own police department to provide security to residents and businesses. The Department can make presentations to schools, community groups, or businesses on an assortment of topics.
Three fire departments and two ambulance companies are close to all neighborhood areas as is the Northeast Quadrant Advanced Life Support team.
The Town is governed by a Town Board of five elected members: the Supervisor and four other Town Council members. Today, the Town has a population of over 45,000 and employs approximately 250 people with 14 department heads.
Congratulations to the Town of Webster on its 180th Birthday in 2020!
Diane McClure, Board Chair of Webster Chamber of Commerce (L) presents Anniversary Award to Town Councilperson Patricia Cataldi (C) and Town Supervisor Tom Flaherty (R)
Webster Chamber members also celebrating business for 2020 and 2021:
- ESL Federal Credit Union – 25 Years (2021)
- Super 8 – 25 Years (2021)
- McCallister Signs Inc. - 25 years (2021)
- McMahon, LaRue Associates – 25 Years (2020)
- Friends of the Webster Public Library – 25 Years (2020)
- Hosiers Garage – 30 Years (2021)
- O’Dell Chiropractic – 30 Years (2021)
- Costanza Sausage – 30 Years (2020)
- Golden Boyz Restaurant – 30 Years (2020)
- Baywinde Senior Living - 35 years (2020)
- Schreiber Excavating - 40 Years (2020)
- Thomas Landscape & Design - 45 Years (2021)
- T Nelson Sales – 50 Years (2020)
- Gerard P. Smith Agency – 55 Years (2021)
- Brugge Farms, LLC – 55 Years (2020)
- Casciani Construction – 55 Years (2020)
- Joseph Scofero & Sons – 70 Years (2020)
- Wilberts Buick & GM Parts – 70 Years (2021)
- Pugsley Marine Inc. – 75 Years (2021)
- Webster Rotary Club – 75 Years (2021)
- Schuber Liquor Store – 75 Years (2020)
- Willard Scott Funeral Home – 75 Years (2020)
- Bushart Farms, LLC – 85 Years (2021)
- Webster Theatre Guild – 85 Years (2021)
- West Webster Volunteer FD Assoc. – 95 Years (2021)
- Wegman's Food Market - 105 Years (2020)
- Xerox – 115 Years (2020)
- Northwest Savings Bank – 125 Years (2021)
- M&T Bank – 165 Years (2021)
- Webster Baptist Church – 165 Years (2021)
- Webster Republican Committee – 165 Years (2021)