These businesses and organizations were honored at the Webster Chamber of Commerce breakfast on September 25th, 2026:
· Heritage Christian Stables – 25 Years
· Chris Ross Agency – 30 Years
· McAllister Sign Inc. – 30 Years
· Steve’s Custom Canvas & Upholstery – 35 Years
· Law Offices of Thomas J. DiSalvo Esq., PC – 40 Years
· Lakefront Soccer Club – 50 Years
· Thomas Landscape & Design – 50 Years
· Gerard P. Smith / World Insurance – 60 Years
· Kitchen & Bath Expressions – 60 Years
· Penfield Webster EMS – 60 Years
· Wilbert’s Buick & GM Parts – 75 Years
· Webster Rotary Club – 80 Years
· The Summit Federal Credit Union – 85 Years
· Webster Theatre Guild – 90 Years
· maurices – 95 Years
· Underberg & Kessler LLP – 100 Years
· West Webster Fire Department Association – 100 Years
· Wegmans Food Markets– 110 Years
· Community Bank, N.A. – 160 Years
· M&T Bank – 170 Years
· NBT Bank – 170 Years
· Webster Republican Committee – 170 Years
Heritage Christian Stables - Celebrates 25 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Heritage Christian Stables
Heritage Christian Stables is a community gem located on Salt Road in Webster. Owned and operated by Heritage Christian Services, the stables were established on February 14, 2001, with a mission to provide therapeutic horseback riding to individuals who lived in Heritage Christian Services residential homes.
As the program grew, it became clear that the benefits of therapeutic riding extended far beyond those originally served. After several years, Heritage Christian Stables opened its doors to individuals receiving services from other agencies as well as independent families in the community.
In 2020, the stables faced one of its greatest challenges when programming was paused for approximately six months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, the staff took the opportunity to step back and re-envision what the stables could become. When the doors reopened, Heritage Christian Stables emerged as an even more inclusive community program—one where individuals with disabilities continued to be welcomed, while also creating opportunities for family members, community members, and anyone who simply wanted to experience the joy of horses.
Since reopening, the stables have welcomed people of all ages and abilities. It has become a place where everyone is encouraged to find their own connection with horses. The program currently offers equine-assisted lessons for individuals with disabilities, lessons designed around social and emotional challenges, more traditional community riding lessons, a veterans’ program, and opportunities for birthdays, Scout badges, youth groups, and other community experiences.
For 25 years, Heritage Christian Stables has been more than a riding facility. It has been a place where people are seen for what they can do, where differences are welcomed, and where the kindness of a horse can create an experience that stays with someone long after they leave the barn.
The stables' 25th anniversary is particularly poignant. Heritage Christian Services has announced that, due to increased operating expenses, Heritage Christian Stables is scheduled to close on November 1, 2026. We hope that when people think of Heritage Christian Stables, they will remember it as the place where everyone was welcome—and where, for 25 years, there was always a way to experience the beauty, connection, and kindness of horses.
With us today are Tara Kuba, Kiara Gianconia and Niki Whilden.
Congratulations to Heritage Christian Service on the 25 years of service!
Chris Ross State Farm Insurance Agency - Celebrates 30 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Chris Ross State Farm Agency
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 the top ten in personal insurance lines for five years.
In 2008, Chris partnered with State Farm, becoming an agency owner which enabled 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 for 15 years. Chris has received industry awards including NAIFA quality awards and is a lifetime 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, Webster Sports Booster Club, Scouts of America, and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
Putting people in their community and their customers in a better place through education, protecting their future, and realizing their dreams is what fuels the passion of the Chris Ross Agency.
The team consists of Gabby Fitzsimmons, David Fitzsimmons, Tim Dogmanits, Bob Ross, and of course, Chris Ross. As an investment advisor, broker dealer, and agent fiduciary, Chris specializes in estate and pension maximization, small business retirement plans, along with being responsible for investment brokerage accounts, advisory accounts, IRAs, 401Ks, 529s, and life insurance benefits in force of well over $150 million!
Chris loves running the agency in his hometown, helping his neighbors and fellow businesses! When he’s not working, he loves being a Dad to his 4 children of which 3 are teenagers, playing tennis, travelling and being outdoors.
With us today are Chris Ross, Dave and Gabby Fitzsimmons - Congratulations to the Chris Ross Agency on 30 years in business!
McAllister Sign Inc. - Celebrates 30 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to McAllister Sign, Inc.
For 30 years, McAllister Sign has been helping businesses, organizations, and communities bring their ideas to life through quality signage and environmental graphics. What began as a small, woman-owned sign company has grown into a trusted business built on craftsmanship, personal service, and long-term relationships.
Founded by Chris McAllister, and woman-owned from day one, the company has remained proudly independent for all three decades. Chris and her husband, Mark, have worked side by side throughout the journey, building the business together while maintaining the hands-on approach that has always been at the heart of the company.
Over the years, McAllister Sign has evolved along with the sign industry—from traditional signage and graphics to today’s facility, architectural, environmental, and specialty signage. While technology, materials, and capabilities have changed, the company’s commitment to quality and doing things the right way has remained the same.
Chris has been the driving force behind the company’s woman-owned legacy, bringing creativity, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to its customers. Mark has been an integral part of the business, working alongside Chris and contributing to the craftsmanship, problem-solving, and day-to-day efforts that have helped the company succeed.
Together, Chris and Mark have built more than a sign company. They have built a business based on trust, hard work, relationships, and pride in what they create. After 30 years, they continue to believe that the best projects come from listening to the customer, understanding the purpose behind the signage, and finding the right solution—not simply selling a sign.
Three decades later, McAllister Sign remains woman-owned, family-operated, and committed to creating signage that works as hard as the businesses and organizations it represents.
Please congratulate Chris & Mark McAllister on their longevity of 30 years!
Steve's Custom Canvas & Upholstery - Celebrates 35 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Steve Palis of Steve's Custom Canvas & Upholstery
For 35 years, Steve’s Custom Canvas has been a trusted name in quality craftsmanship and customer service, proudly serving Webster and the surrounding communities.
Founded in 1991 by Steve Palis, Steve’s Custom Canvas began as a small seasonal boat canvas business, operating out of a trailer behind Sutter Marine on Irondequoit Bay. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality, the business quickly grew beyond its beginnings and expanded into a full-service, year-round manufacturer specializing in custom canvas, upholstery, and awnings.
Over the years, Steve’s Custom Canvas has built a strong reputation for exceptional workmanship, quality materials, and outstanding customer service. Its experienced craftsmen take pride in working closely with customers—from selecting materials and colors to ensuring every detail meets their expectations.
For more than three decades, Steve’s Custom Canvas has demonstrated the qualities that define a successful and enduring local business: dedication, craftsmanship, adaptability, and a commitment to its customers and community.
The Webster Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Steve’s Custom Canvas with a Longevity Award in appreciation of more than 35 years of business, service, and commitment to excellence in the Webster community.
Congratulations to Steve Palis on this remarkable milestone!
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Karen DiSalvo and Thomas DiSalvo of The Law Office of Thomas DiSalvo, P.C.
Tom DiSalvo’s legal career began in February 1983, when he was admitted to the practice of law and started working with DeMaria & Ianini. A few years later, in January 1986, Tom formed his own professional corporation, Thomas J. DiSalvo, Esq., P.C. Building his own practice has allowed him to work closely with individuals, families, and businesses throughout the community in a broad range of legal matters, including real estate, family law, wills, trusts and estates, business formation, and criminal defense.
In March 1998, Tom’s firm moved to its current location on Ridge Road in Webster, New York. Webster has been more than just the location of his office; it has been the community he has been proud to serve for many years.
Having his own business has given Tom the freedom and flexibility to serve the public in meaningful ways, including five years as Deputy Town Attorney and more than 25 years as Webster Town Justice. Those roles have deepened Tom’s commitment to the people of Webster and reinforced the importance of practical, personal, and trusted legal guidance.
Tom & Karen Disalvo are here today to celebrate their 40 years in practice!
Lakefront Soccer Club - Celebrates 50 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Lakefront Soccer Club
Founded in May 1976 as the Webster Soccer Association (WSA), Lakefront Soccer Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, community-focused youth soccer organization dedicated to providing players of all ages and abilities with opportunities to develop as athletes, teammates, and individuals. As the Club celebrates its 50th anniversary, it reflects on five decades of commitment to player and individual development, community engagement, and positive soccer experiences.
Lakefront began as a volunteer-led seasonal program serving youth in the community. Through the dedication of players, families, coaches, and volunteers, the Club has grown into one of the largest youth soccer organizations in New York State. Milestones in its development include the creation of the Youth Eastside Soccer (YES) League in 1996 and the opening of the WSA Indoor Facility and Boulter Stadium Field in 2001, expanding opportunities for year-round training and competition.
Today, Lakefront Soccer Club serves more than 1,500 members annually through a comprehensive range of programming, from introductory recreational soccer to advanced competitive play. The Club emphasizes technical development, teamwork, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of the game.
Lakefront operates across two primary facilities in Webster, spanning more than 50 acres, which support year-round programming, league play, and its annual Lakefront Classic Showcase that brings tens of thousands of visitors from across the region.
As Lakefront celebrates this milestone, it recognizes the generations of players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who have shaped the organization and remains committed to serving the community for years to come. The Club extends its sincere appreciation to the Webster Chamber of Commerce for its continued support of local organizations and for recognizing this milestone anniversary.
Here today are Clay Carpenter, Thomas Francati, Andrew Washburn and Pat Cusato – congratulations on 50 years of supporting our youth!
Thomas Landscape & Design – Celebrates 50 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Thomas Landscape & Design
What began as an idea Rick Thomas had while he was still in high school has grown into a thriving, family-owned business serving the community for 50 years. Recognizing the need for creative and innovative landscaping services, Rick turned his vision into reality and built Thomas Landscape and Design into Monroe County’s leading full-service landscape, lawn, tree, and shrub maintenance company.
Through hard work and perseverance, Rick established both commercial and residential accounts and, in the 1980s, purchased the company’s Ridge Road location. Today, that location is home to much more than a landscaping business. In addition to providing comprehensive landscaping services, Thomas Landscape and Design features a Garden Center, nursery, greenhouses and a charming gift shop.
From spring through fall, the Garden Center and greenhouses are fully stocked with a wide variety of trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals to help customers create and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces. You’ll also find products to improve your lawn and garden, along with unique garden accents and décor to add personality and charm to your home.
Thomas Landscape and Design offers everything from landscape design and installation to ongoing lawn, tree and shrub maintenance. Projects can range from a single day to several weeks, depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Rick continues to personally oversee landscaping projects alongside his daughter, Heather Thomas who is now President and runs the organization, Pam Thomas who is Vice President and Buyer, and Vice President/General Manager Tony Zucco, ensuring that every project receives the care and attention customers have come to expect.
And don’t forget to stop by the enchanting gift shop, where you can discover a carefully curated collection of unique treasures. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, a special accent for your home or simply something to treat yourself, there’s always something unexpected and inspiring to discover.
After 50 years, Thomas Landscape and Design remains committed to helping customers create beautiful, inviting outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking for professional landscaping services, plants and gardening products, unique décor or that one-of-a-kind gift, Thomas Landscape and Design is ready to bring your vision to life.
Joining us today to celebrate are Heather, Rick, and Pam Thomas along with Julie Smith and Tony Zucco.
Congratulations to Thomas Landscape & Design!
Gerard P. Smith Insurance/World Insurance
Founded in 1966, the Gerard P. Smith Agency established itself as a trusted insurance resource for individuals, families, and businesses throughout Webster and the greater Rochester region. Built on a commitment to personalized service, strong client relationships, and professional expertise, the agency earned a reputation for helping generations of clients protect what matters most while adapting to the changing needs of the community.
A significant milestone in the agency's history came with the merger of the Gerard P. Smith Agency and the DG&M agency, bringing together two respected local organizations with shared values and a dedication to client service. By combining experience, talent, and resources, the merged organization expanded its capabilities while preserving the personalized approach that had defined both agencies for decades.
Today, DG&M Insurance Agency operates as a Division of World Insurance Associates, LLC following its acquisition by World Insurance in 2021. World currently has offices here in Webster, Pittsford, as well as another office in Geneva.
Kitchen & Bath Expressions – 60 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Gary & Marlene Lazzaro of Kitchen and Bath Expressions
Gary Lazzaro began working full time in the remodeling business, originally started by his father, Henry in 1966. At that time, and to this day, customer service and quality craftsmanship have been a top priority. Gary and his wife, Marlene, operated the business out of their home until 1987 when they began construction of their kitchen and bath showroom, adding an additional 2,200 square feet of showroom and offices in 1993.
Penfield Webster EMS – Celebrates 60 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Penfield Webster EMS
The current Penfield Webster Emergency Medical Services was founded in 1966 as The Penfield Volunteer Emergency Ambulance Service, Inc. when community leaders recognized the need for a local ambulance service after emergency response times from the city often exceeded 30 minutes. The local Lions Club raised the funds necessary to purchase the community's first ambulance. Since that first year, when they covered 160 calls, they have grown into a modern emergency medical service providing around-the-clock care to thousands of residents and visitors to Penfield and Webster every day of the year.
From those humble beginnings, Penfield Webster EMS has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the community by adding additional ambulances, introducing critical care services, constructing modern facilities, and providing Advanced Life Support and paramedic-level care to an agency providing emergency response to almost 12,000 calls a year. Additionally, they support community events, public safety initiatives and have trained thousands of residents in CPR and first aid in both towns.
For six decades, operating from their main base on Jackson Road and sub stations on Gravel Road and Phillips Road, the residents of Penfield and now Webster have benefited from the courage, dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism of the organization and its members, who have built and sustained Penfield Webster EMS into one of the region's premier emergency medical service organizations.
Here today for the celebration are Glenn Becker and Christina Alexander.
Thank you and congratulations to Pen Web EMS for 60 years of service!
Wilbert’s Buick & GM Parts – Celebrates 75 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Wilbert's Buick and GM Parts
Wilbert’s was founded in 1952 by Arthur “Art” Wilbert, a family man with a farming background and a passion for repairing automobiles. Working from an old barn on Salt Road in Webster, New York, Art purchased wrecked vehicles and combined their usable components to build reliable vehicles. The leftover parts soon created a new business opportunity, leading him to begin purchasing vehicles specifically for dismantling and supplying quality used parts to collision repair facilities. These resourceful beginnings laid the foundation for what would become Wilbert’s automotive recycling business.
In the 1970s, Art planted Christmas trees to create a natural screen around the growing inventory of automotive parts behind the barn. As the trees matured, community members began asking if they could purchase them for Christmas. Art recognized another opportunity and transformed the surrounding farmland into a Christmas tree farm alongside the automotive business. The farm became one of his greatest passions, allowing him to return to his agricultural roots while building lasting relationships with local families.
Over the decades, Wilbert’s grew from that single barn into seven automotive recycling facilities across New York and Ohio, a full-service automotive repair and tire center, and an expanding family Christmas tree farm. The farm now encompasses more than 150 acres and is home to approximately 180,000 Christmas trees. Along the way, Wilbert’s has been nationally recognized by its industry peers as a leading automotive recycler in the United States and has been named a Top Employer for three consecutive years.
Today, Wilbert’s Family Enterprises is proudly led as a third-generation family business. As we mark our 75th anniversary, we remain deeply proud of where we came from and committed to the values established by Art Wilbert: family, hard work, resourcefulness, community, and treating people with respect. While the organization has grown considerably, our purpose remains the same—to care for our team members, serve our customers and communities, lead our industries forward, and build a legacy that future generations can be proud to continue.
Representing this third generation business are Ron, Tim and Eric Wilbert – congratulations on their 75 years in business!
Webster Rotary Club – Celebrates 80 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to the Webster Rotary
The Webster Rotary Club was chartered in February 1946, beginning a legacy of service and community involvement that has spanned eight decades.
The club’s original 23 members, all male, represented a diverse cross-section of the Webster community, with members working in professions including law, pharmacy, retail, and automobile repair and maintenance. From its earliest days, Webster Rotary was committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of local residents.
Over the years, the club has continued to grow and evolve, welcoming both men and women from a wide variety of professions and backgrounds who share a common commitment to strengthening the Webster community.
Guided by Rotary International’s enduring motto, “Service Above Self.”
One of the club’s most significant contributions was its role as a founding supporter of Camp Haccamo, a summer camp created to provide children with special needs, the opportunity to enjoy recreational activities in a professionally supervised environment alongside other children with similar needs and interests.
For 80 years, Webster Rotary has demonstrated that meaningful change begins with people willing to give their time, talent, and resources to help others. Through service, scholarships, community projects, and support for those in need, the club has played an important role in making Webster a stronger and more caring community.
With us from Rotary are Alexandra Scialdone, Penny Swingly, Gene Sydar, Richard Comins and Dolly Kujawa.
Webster Rotary’s legacy is one of service, compassion, and commitment—and its dedication to “Service Above Self” continues today.
Congratulations on 80 years of service!
The Summit Federal Credit Union – Celebrates 85 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Summit Federal Credit Union
Founded in 1941, The Summit Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned, full-service financial cooperative. With over $1.4 billion in assets, The Summit has over 230 employees and provides a full range of affordable financial products and services to over 96,000 active members in Central New York, the Finger Lakes Region, and Western New York.
The Summit is dedicated to the rich diversity of the communities that they serve. You will regularly see their staff out and about in the community supporting other not-for-profit organizations that share their mission and values.
Representing the Credit Union today is Cristina Strazzeri – congratulations to Summit on their 85th anniversary!
Webster Theatre Guild – Celebrates 90 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Jim Pringle of the Webster Theatre Guild
As the Webster Theatre Guild celebrates its 90th anniversary this year, it marks nearly a century of community-based theatre, artistic opportunity, and civic contribution in Webster.
WTG was organized in 1936 by Erva Wright Smith and Reverend John Schott, pastor of the Presbyterian Church. In its earliest years, Webster Theatre Guild produced one-act plays at locations throughout the Village of Webster, often staging performances to benefit local organizations including the Webster Public Library, the Sons of the American Legion, and the Service Men’s Christmas Fund in 1942.
In 1958, Webster Theatre Guild began its tradition of annual musicals with Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore, followed by The Pirates of Penzance in 1959. Over the decades, the Guild has performed many stage classics, including Guys and Dolls, Oklahoma, The Sound of Music, Annie, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Wizard of Oz, Evita, and West Side Story. More recent productions have included Jekyll and Hyde, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Addams Family, Little Women, Rock of Ages, and last season’s extraordinary production of Shrek The Musical.
This season, Sister Act takes center stage for six performances from October 9 through October 17. Tickets can be purchased at WebsterTheatreGuild.org. Webster Theatre Guild continues to support the local community through artistic development, student scholarships, and grants to the Webster PTSA. Scholarships have been awarded to graduating seniors since the Guild’s inception and in 2005 were renamed to honor the late Joe Obbie, a lifelong Webster resident and community leader who embraced theatre later in life.
Joining us is Jim Pringle from the Guild – please congratulate them on giving us 90 years of entertainment!
maurices – Celebrates 95 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to Maurices
Founded in 1931 by E. Maurice Labovitz in downtown Duluth, Minnesota, maurices began as a small women's clothing store during the height of the Great Depression. Built on a commitment to exceptional value, quality merchandise, and personalized service, the company earned just a few dollars in profit during its first year. Maurice and Ella Labovitz established a people-first culture rooted in resilience, integrity, and genuine care for customers, creating a foundation that continues to guide the business 95 years later.
Over the past nine and a half decades, maurices has grown from a single storefront into a leading North American fashion retailer with more than 800 locations across the United States and Canada. Throughout its history, the company has successfully navigated economic changes, industry transformation, and evolving customer needs while remaining focused on serving women in the small and mid-sized communities it proudly calls its "hometowns." What makes maurices' 95-year story especially remarkable is that while the company has grown into a national brand, it has remained committed to the same values and customer-centered approach that inspired its founding in 1931.
Since the beginning, maurices is more than simply selling clothing, the company strives to help women feel confident and empowered through accessible fashion, inclusive sizing, and a personalized shopping experience. Associates are passionate about building relationships with customers, knowing their names, understanding their style needs, and helping them celebrate life's everyday moments and special occasions. This people-first philosophy has earned the company recognition as a top employer and has been a driving force behind its longevity and success.
As maurices celebrates its 95th anniversary, the company continues to invest in its associates, support charitable initiatives, and strengthen the communities it serves. The opening of the Webster location in April 2026, the company's 822nd store, reflects its ongoing commitment to growth and to bringing feel-good fashion and exceptional service to hometown communities across North America.
Liberty Dodds and Caitlin Gordinier are here to celebrate – congratulations to maurices on 95 years of style and service!
Underberg & Kessler LLP – Celebrates 100 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Underberg & Kessler LLP
Founded in 1926, Underberg & Kessler LLP is a full-service law firm rooted in Rochester, New York, with offices in Buffalo, Canandaigua, and Geneseo. As the firm marks its 100th anniversary in 2026, it celebrates a century of providing thoughtful, client-focused legal counsel grounded in integrity, professionalism, and service to businesses, municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, and individuals throughout Western New York and across the state.
The firm began as a two-lawyer partnership when Joseph Goldstein and Manuel D. Goldman opened their practice in the Union Trust Building in downtown Rochester. For more than 25 years, Joe and Manny built a reputation for dedication to clients and deep community involvement. In 1952, the firm expanded when Harry D. Goldman, Manny’s brother, joined as a partner, prompting a name change to Goldstein Goldman and Goldman. That same year, Irving L. Kessler, recognized for his leadership in real estate law, joined the firm as an associate. Five years later, Irv became a partner, and the firm was renamed Goldstein, Goldman and Kessler.
In 1963, Alan J. Underberg, an accomplished corporate practitioner, joined the partnership, leading to the firm’s next name change: Goldstein, Goldman, Kessler and Underberg. Continued growth throughout the following decade culminated in the firm’s relocation in the early 1970s to the newly opened Chase Lincoln First Tower, where it became the building’s first non-banking tenant. By July 1988, with more than 30 attorneys, the firm adopted the name Underberg & Kessler LLP. The firm remained in the Chase Lincoln First Tower until relocating its headquarters in 2005 to Legacy Tower (formerly Bausch & Lomb Place), where it remains today.
Over the decades, Underberg & Kessler has grown by attracting talented attorneys, expanding into new practice areas, and opening offices to better serve clients across the region. Today, the firm offers comprehensive legal services across a wide range of disciplines, including business and corporate, banking and commercial lending, cannabis, construction, creditors’ rights, environmental and energy, estates and trusts, family law, health care, labor and employment, litigation, municipal, real estate and finance, and tax law.
Please congratulate Pat Cusato, Andrew Washburn and David Tang as the represent their firm’s 100 years of practicing law!
West Webster Fire Department Association – Celebrates 100 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to West Webster Fire District
In January 1925, fire struck the hamlet of West Webster at the John Shoemaker Block on Ridge Road, just west of Gravel Road on the north side of the road.
The fire began shortly before 3:00 p.m. when an oil stove exploded inside the Shoemaker Building. The fire quickly spread west to the Milliman Building and then east to the Brewer Building.
Webster Fire apparatus arrived approximately 10 minutes after the initial alarm and immediately requested assistance from the Rochester Fire Department, as well as the Point Pleasant and Sea Breeze Fire Departments from Irondequoit. The losses were estimated at $50,000, equivalent to more than $954,000 today.
In the aftermath of the fire, a local social group known as the “Social 20” took on the task of improving fire protection in the western part of the Town of Webster. Throughout the remainder of 1925 and into early 1926, the organization held fundraising events to support that effort.
On May 3, 1926, the West Webster Volunteer Firemen’s Association held its first meeting at Maccabee Hall, located at 575–577 Ridge Road. From that beginning, an organization was established that would go on to serve generations of West Webster residents.
Today, the West Webster Fire Department protects more than 25 square miles, with three strategically located fire stations providing reliable response to calls for service throughout the district. Those stations house a diverse fleet of fire apparatus and support vehicles, allowing the department to respond to a wide range of emergencies.
The department is currently made up of 96 active volunteer members. In 2025, those members responded to more than 1,225 calls for service, continuing the tradition of answering the call whenever their community needs them.
What began with a group of local citizens determined to improve fire protection has grown into a modern, highly trained volunteer fire department that continues to serve the community 100 years later.
Here today are Glen Moorehouse and Shawn Orchard.
Congratulations to the West Webster Volunteer Firemen’s Association on 100 years of dedicated service to the community.
Wegmans Food Markets– 110 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Wegmans Food Markets
Wegmans' story began in 1916, when brothers Walter and John Wegman opened the Rochester Fruit and Vegetable Company, a produce market built on quality and service. The first official Wegmans Food Markets store opened in 1930 and was notable for its size and innovation, including cafeteria seating and a wide variety of products. The company established its commitment to family ownership early, with Robert B. Wegman joining after high school and future generations carrying that legacy forward.
From the start, Wegmans demonstrated its commitment to employees by taking care of its people so they could, in turn, take care of customers. The company built a long history of making a difference in the communities it serves through donations to local food banks, pantries, and other nonprofit organizations. As Wegmans expanded into new markets, including its first Webster store in 1954, it gained national recognition through books, national news, and Fortune's first-ever list of the "100 Best Companies to Work For," which Wegmans has earned a place on every year since.
In 2016, Wegmans celebrated its centennial and has continued to grow and innovate ever since. Led by a new generation of family leaders, Wegmans has expanded to 114 stores in 9 states and Washington, D.C., while maintaining a strong focus on its values and mission of helping people live healthier, better lives through exceptional food.
Wegmans has never rushed their growth, and that approach continues to hold true, with a focus on quality and experience at every store.
Celebrating 110 years with us today are Tom Jacobs, Alicia Demacko and Danielle Hawkins – congratulations to Wegmans!
Community Bank, N.A. – Celebrates 160 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to West Webster Fire District
Community Bank is celebrating a remarkable milestone in 2026: 160 years of serving customers, supporting local businesses, and investing in communities across the Northeast.
Founded in Canton, New York as St. Lawrence National Bank in 1866, Community Bank has spent more than a century and a half helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve their goals while remaining deeply connected to the communities it serves. Today, as part of parent company Community Financial System, Inc., the organization has grown to approximately $17 billion in assets, more than 200 branches, over 3,000 employees, and a footprint spanning upstate New York, Northeastern Pennsylvania, Vermont, western Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire.
The anniversary comes at a time of continued growth and investment for the company. Over the past two years, Community Financial System, Inc. includes the construction of 13 new branches, four new regional headquarters, and a new corporate headquarters in Central New York. This expansion included four new branch locations in Monroe County including the Webster location in Baytowne Plaza.
That growth has been accompanied by a continued commitment to community impact. In 2025, the company contributed nearly $5 million in donations, grants, and sponsorships, supported more than 1,400 nonprofit organizations, and recorded nearly 19,000 employee volunteer hours.
Ryan Johnson, Wayne Gordon and Alexis Hobart are here from the bank – please congratulate Community Bank on their 160-year anniversary!
M&T Bank – Celebrates 170 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to Ariane Ring of M&T Bank
At M&T Bank, they connect their customers to the capital, ideas, and people they need to thrive- because they know that when their communities succeed, they all succeed. Founded in 1856, in Buffalo, New York, M&T provides strength and peace of mind to their clients in all economic environments thanks to their consistent earnings, superior profitability, and exceptional financial stability. As their company grows, M&T is expanding on their unique combination of core, specialty, and institutional banking services, along with Wilmington Trust’s corporate trust, agency services, and wealth guidance.
For 170 years, M&T has strived to take an active role in their communities and build long-lasting relationships with their customers. They are a bank for the communities - combining the capabilities of a large bank with the care of a locally focused institution. Their purpose is to make a difference in people’s lives and uplift the communities they serve.
M&T is a trusted partner offering local bank service and big bank scale. They have the stability and sophistication of one of the largest US banks, but they are grounded in their relationship-driven, community bank model that has made them a dependable engine of local economic development.
Together with their core banking services, specialty businesses, and Wilmington Trust teams, M&T can serve customers across the country. It enables them to be a bank that delivers more for their communities - offering a broad range of resources with genuine care and empathy at the local level.
M&T has a resilient balance sheet and strong earnings, and they are growing their size and capabilities so that they can provide more communities with the financial services they need to thrive. They’re investing in technology to meet the demands of tomorrow’s banking system. They are working to drive innovation that solves life’s enduring problems in new and transformative ways. As they grow and look to the future, they are committed to growing with purpose - to empower them to better serve their communities and to make a difference in their people’s lives.
M&T currently has over 1000 branches, 22,000 employees and holds $212 billion dollars in assets. They are ranked in the top 25 US banks based on assets.
Ariane Ring is here representing the bank.
Congratulations to M&T Bank on celebrating 170 years in business!
NBT Bank – Celebrates 170 Years
Barry Howard presents longevity award to NBT Bank
NBT Bank is an independent, community-focused financial institution dedicated to putting customers first and strengthening the communities they serve. They offer a full range of personal banking, business banking, and wealth management services.
With a network of more than 170 locations across New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Connecticut, NBT’s greatest strength lies in their people.
As a growing company with more than 2,000 employees, their dedication empowers us to deliver personalized banking solutions, build lasting relationships, and make local decisions that benefit our customers and communities.
NBT Bank has five retail branches in Monroe County, including Fairport, Irondequoit, Penfield and Perinton, along with their newest office that opened in 2025 at 1075 Ridge Road in Webster.
The local team is deeply committed to making the community a better place to live and work. In addition to providing financial support, their employees actively volunteer their time and expertise on local committees and nonprofit boards.
Doug Szczesky, Lindsay Meyers and Warren Miller are here from NBT – congratulations on their 170th anniversary!
Webster Republican Committee – 170 Years
Carolyn Montanaro presents longevity award to the Webster Republican Committee
The Webster Republican Party traces its roots to the founding of the Republican Party in 1856. Shortly thereafter, the newly formed party began fielding candidates for public office in the Town of Webster. Throughout much of Webster’s history, the town’s elected leadership—including Town Supervisors and Town Council members—has been predominantly Republican.
As political organizations and party structures evolved throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries, the Webster Republican organization developed into the structure that exists today. Reforms during the 1960s and 1970s established the position of Town Leader, who serves as the party’s political spokesperson and represents Webster Republican interests within the Monroe County Republican Party. Additional reforms during the 1980s further consolidated responsibilities within the Town Leader position, shaping the role largely as it is known today.
The Town Leader is elected by members of the Webster Republican Committee and works with several supporting committees to oversee the organization’s activities. Since 1993, with two four-year interruptions, Peter Elder has served as Town Leader. He was the youngest person ever elected to the position in Monroe County, is its longest-serving Town Leader, and is the only native Webster resident to have served as Chairman of the Monroe County Republican Party.
For 170 years, the Webster Republican Party has remained an active part of the community’s political history. Today, the organization continues its tradition of recruiting and nominating qualified candidates to serve Webster and the surrounding community in County Legislature, Town, and Village offices.
Peter Elder, Ginny Nguyen, Jennifer Wright, Karen DiSalvo and Sean Hanna from the Webster Republican Party are here celebrating 170 years of history, civic engagement, and participation in the Webster community - congratulations.