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Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Jessica Bettencourt
1st Vice Chair
Cindy Howard
Immediate Past Chair
__________
Board Members
Rich Eichacker
Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co.
Jim Donahue
Honorary Board Member
Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
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Greetings from the Chamber of Central Mass South!
Welcome to your mid-March CROSSROADS EVENTS
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A new season is almost upon us but we can't wait to spring the news about many interesting offerings coming up from the Chamber and our Members.
Our golden shears will snip the Red Ribbon at
Red Door Realty in Sturbridge on the 22nd and we offer seminars on Harassment Training at Bay Path University and social media at this month's Brown Bag Seminar. April features just-announced events like our Spring JOB FAIR and Fun at Five at Rapcallion with Opacum Land Trust. Keep reading for many great ideas for Easter celebrations, too!
Got news? Thank you for emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in
Crossroads!
Keep posting your events to our online events calendar! We love sharing them with our readers!
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Ribbon Cutting Celebration!
Red Door Realty
Thursday, March 22, 2018
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
71 Main Street (Route 131), Sturbridge, MA
508.954.0522
You're invited to a Ribbon Cutting! Owners of Red Door Realty Dawn Truax and Pam Mills as well as their agents are looking forward to introducing you to their new place of business at 71 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA. This new larger location will accommodate Red Door Realty's growing business and allow them to better serve their clients.
Red Door Realty specializes in residential, commercial and land purchases/sales in Central and Western Massachusetts. We work very closely with a great team of local mortgage professionals and attorneys who assist in every aspect of the transaction. At Red Door Realty, we work as a team and pride ourselves on the service and personal attention we give to every client.
Please join us as we welcome Red Door Realty to their new home in Sturbridge. Stop by, meet these nice folks and enjoy light refreshments, wine, cheese, fruit, and pastries until 6:00 pm.
No RSVP necessary! We hope to see you there.
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CMS Chamber Brown Bag Seminar
Social Media, Now What?
presented by
Sarah Aimad Kassim & Caroline Sun of Venly
Tuesday, March 27 at Noon
Chamber Conference Room
46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
FREE for CMS Chamber Members,
$15 for non-Members.
Space is Limited! Please RSVP.
Feel free to bring your lunch. Use our microwave to heat it up! Relax, learn and grow with us!
During this seminar, attendees will learn how they can improve their social media presence by exploring best social media practices from across the country for their type of business. Key takeaways include:
- The benefits of social media for your business
- Types of social media for your business
- How to engage with your customers
- How to get found and get "traffic"
Presented by: Sarah Aimad Kassim and Caroline Sun
of
Venly
,
Social Media Consultants for the Chamber of Central Mass South
See more including the presenters' bios here.
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Harassment Prevention
in the Workplace:
Best Practices to Reduce Risk
Thursday, March 29, 2018, 8:00am to 9:30am
Bay Path University, 1 Picker Rd, Technology Park, Sturbridge, MA 01566
FREE for CMS Chamber Members.
($25 for non-Members)
Presented by: Mark Adams, Director of HR Solutions
Employers Association of the NorthEast
With the rise of some high profile allegations of Sexual Harassment by politicians, Hollywood celebrities, and others coupled with the rise of the "MeToo movement", sexual harassment remains in the spotlight nationally and is poised to be a high risk area for employers for the remainder of 2018. To avoid the high cost of litigation, employee turnover and lost productivity due to harassment in the workplace, you need a top down prevention strategy in place no matter the size or scope of your business. In today's briefing, Mark will guide attendees through the following:
- Silence no more - survey says...
- Setting a Culture of Respect
- Reviewing your Sexual Harassment Policy
- Being prepared to investigate a complaint
- Federal & State Compliance - postings, policies and training
- Have a tool kit ready to go
About the Presenter:
Mark Adams, Employers Association of the NorthEast
Mark Adams leads the HR Solutions team, providing services to member companies and directing programs for affirmative action, background checking, and surveys ... among others. Frequently handling real-time hotline questions, Mark is known for his ability to respond quickly and efficiently to member questions, synthesizing the facts and offering both a compelling legal perspective and the experience gleaned from two decades in the industry.
Mark is a cum laude graduate of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and the Western New England College School of Law where he obtained his Juris Doctor in 1992. He is admitted to practice in Massachusetts. Mark is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) by The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), which validates mastery in the field of human resource management and organizational effectiveness.
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Save the Date!
The Chamber's GOLF CLASSIC returns on
Proceeds Benefit the Chamber's Scholarship
& Charities Fund
Heritage Country Club, Charlton
MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON!
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Click the M2M logo for all current discounts!
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NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Rapscallion Brewery & Tap Room
195 Arnold Road, Sturbridge, MA
Join us for Networking at Rapscallion Brewery!
Recently voted Sturbridge's best neighborhood hangout, Rapscallion is warm and inviting with rustic farmhouse touches combined with the industrial backdrop of a craft brewing operation. A brewery-run food truck serving gourmet flatbreads and classic pub munchies and an adjoining 18-hole disc golf course invite visitors for a quick escape or a full day's retreat! Enjoy warm and friendly vibes at one of Massachusetts' oldest tap rooms!
Enjoy tasty treats, fresh brews, chances to win valuable drawing prizes and
the opportunity to mingle with local professionals in a very cool and relaxed setting!
Register for Fun at Five by email or phone.
508-347-2761
Cost is $10 for Members who pre-register,
$15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.
We hope to see you there!
Thank you to our April Fun at Five Sponsor!
Opacum Land Trust -
Your local land trust - protecting almost 2,000 acres of land in our 13-town service area stretching from Southbridge to West Brookfield and Monson to Charlton.
Please join us to meet the Opacum Land Trust Board of Directors and learn about our new bike event - TourOpacum, Ride for Land Conservation. Last year our first TourOpacum drew 91 riders and our goal is to grow into a major regional bike event, drawing hundreds of riders to Sturbridge and the Opacum service area. Many riders commented on how beautiful this part of the region is. Working with our partners Rapscallion Brewery, Hyland Orchard and Southbridge Bicycles, Opacum Land Trust seeks to enhance the quality of life in our communities while protecting important habitat and open space for the benefit of wildlife and the public.
Join us at 5:00 at Rapscallion Brewery to sample their beer and food and help us promote the growth of TourOpacum. Mark your calendar for July 8th for TourOpacum. More information and registration at Bikereg.com.
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Apply Now! 2018 Chamber Scholarships: Deadline is April 1.
The Chamber of Central Mass South is now accepting applications for the 2018 CMS Chamber Scholarships. You may download the application to apply below.
Typically, three $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year. The final decision is subject to our Board of Directors' approval.
Scholarships are disbursed directly to the student upon presentation of grades from first semester completed
after the award is announced and a
minimum 3.0 GPA attained. Students must be a resident or student within the towns served by the Chamber of Central Mass South. Copies of the application have already been sent to all of our local high schools and colleges for easy distribution to students. For information call 508-347-2761. The Chamber does not discriminate against an applicant because of race, color, sex/gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness.
DEADLINE: Return the completed application, transcript, recommendations and student essay by
April 1, 2018 to:
Scholarship Committee, Chamber of Central Mass South,
46 Hall Rd., Sturbridge, MA 01566
DOWNLOAD THE 2018 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
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The Massachusetts Health Connector has a new shopping platform for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. This new platform brings state-of-the-art tools to employers, brokers, and workers, making it easier than ever for small businesses to offer health insurance to their employees. Small businesses have the power to control costs and offer significant flexibility to employers and employees, in an easy-to-use format.
If you are a small business looking into health insurance options for your employees, you may view and download this one-page PDF file which details the benefits for employers and brokers, current plan options, and new shopping features.
Visit www.MassHealthConnector.org/business for more.
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Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School
57 Old Muggett Hill Road, Charlton, MA 01507
Proudly presented by
The Chamber of Central Mass South in partnership
with
Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School
Are you looking to hire for
SUMMER JOBS, INTERNSHIPS OR FULL-TIME POSITIONS?
Reserve a table today at the Spring JOB FAIR. Designed for employers seeking to fill positions and open to all job seekers, the JOB FAIR will take place in two parts.
From 1:00 to 2:30pm, the fair will welcome Juniors and Seniors currently attending Bay Path RVTHS, Shepherd Hill Regional High School, and Southbridge High School.
From 3:00 to 6:00pm, there will be a full on job fair open to all adult job seekers throughout the region.
Two adjacent classrooms will offer
Resume Building Workshops and a panel discussion titled
"Reality Check: What Employers Expect from Entry-Level Employees" during the fair.
The
JOB FAIR will be promoted with ads and inserts in a half dozen local papers with a reach of over 40,000 homes locally and supported by posters in high-traffic business locations throughout the region.
Job seekers can view a list of companies as they come on by visiting the Chamber's website.
Tables are FREE for CMS Chamber Members! First Come, First Served.
($50 for non-Members)
(This includes helpful tips on what to bring!)
SPACE IS LIMITED! APPLY TODAY!
Tables will be offered in the order applications are received. We will confirm your table reservation and table number via email upon receipt of your application.
RETURN YOUR COMPLETED APPLICATION TO:
CMS CHAMBER, 46 HALL ROAD, STURBRIDGE, MA 01566.
NON-CHAMBER MEMBERS MUST INCLUDE PAYMENT OF $50.
PLEASE MAKE YOUR CHECK PAYABLE TO 'CMS CHAMBER.'
Fax your completed application to: 508-347-5218
Don't delay! This will fill up rapidly. Call 508-347-2761 for more information.
With gratitude to our JOB FAIR Sponsors
K
ARL STORZ - ENDOSCOPY AMERICA
OFS OPTICS
SCHOTT FIBER OPTICS
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You are cordially invited to join us for
Lunch with Secretary Sudders
Thursday, May 3, 2018, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge MA, 01566
The Chamber is very excited to welcome Marylou Sudders, Secretary of Health and Human Services who will share the latest news from Beacon Hill and answer your questions. We are pleased to offer this invitation to the Members of the Chamber of Central Mass South as well as our affiliates with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and hope you will join us for an informative and delicious luncheon at the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village.
Topics the Secretary will cover include:
- State and Federal changes in health care and how they affect Massachusetts residents
- The Massachusetts response to the opioid crisis
Please call or
email us for more information or to reserve your space.
Marylou Sudders, MSW, ACSW
Secretary, Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS)
Appointed by Governor Charlie Baker, Marylou Sudders, Secretary of Health & Human Services, leads the largest executive agency in state government, overseeing a $22 billion state budget, twelve agencies and 22,000 public servants. EOHHS services directly touch the lives of slightly more than 1 in 4 residents of the Commonwealth. Sudders' responsibilities include the state's MassHealth (Medicaid) program that provides health coverage to 1.9 million low income or disabled residents, chairing the board of the state's health care marketplace (The Connector), the Autism Commission and, the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA) Oversight Council; and, co-chairs the Governor's Interagency Council on Homelessness and the state's first Governor's Council to Address Aging in Massachusetts. Sudders is leading the Commonwealth's efforts to address the opioid epidemic, strengthen the Department of Children and Families, and to ensure a sustainable MassHealth program.
Professionally trained as a social worker, Sudders has been a public official, private non-profit executive, advocate and college professor. She served as the Massachusetts Commissioner of Mental Health from 1996 to 2003. Prior to her appointment as Secretary, Sudders was an associate professor and chaired the health/mental health program at Boston College's Graduate School of Social Work. She also served as a behavioral health expert with the Department of Justice.
She has been recognized by top business, social work and civic organizations, including the Boston Chamber of Commerce, Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, Eastern Bank, and from the National Association of Social Work for her work.
Sudders is an alumna of Boston University with a Bachelor's degree with honors and a Master's degree in social work, and received an honorary doctorate from the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology. Believing in community service, she has served on many charitable boards, including the Pine Street Inn, DentaQuest Foundation, Massachusetts Association for Mental Health and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Platinum Sponsor
508-765-9771
508-764-4085
________________________508-949-0400
___________________________508-347-8181
The Luncheon Menu
First Course
Tossed Mixed Greens with Choice of Dressing
Entrée
Chicken Arrabiata: Grilled Chicken tossed with Penne,
Roasted Tomato and Caramelized Eggplant
Dessert
Dulce De Leche Bread Pudding with Brown Butter Glazed Pears
Coffee and Assorted Teas
To Attend:
The cost is $30 per person with tables of 8 for $225 for Members and affiliates.
The cost for non-members is $40 per person with tables of 8 for $320.
The Deadline to RSVP is April 26, 2018.
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Thanks to all who came out to welcome Norcom Mortgage to its new Sturbridge offices on February 28. Above, Kristen ("Mama K") Walther cuts the official red ribbon with a flourish during the ceremony. We wish Norcom very happy and productive times in their new home!
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We are sincerely grateful to the talented students of the Cabinetry Department at Bay Path Vocational Technical High School for building and delivering our new Conference Room table. It measures approximately 4 ft. wide by 14 ft. long with a beautiful cherry veneer. It is something to behold and it makes us want to get busy! You can see the table being delivered and set up in the newest videos on the Chamber's YouTube channel.
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Happy 80th Birthday SCU! WOW, we've made it this far and continue going strong!
How should we celebrate this milestone? Introduce a new product and/or service? Nope. Not for this. Cake, ice cream, balloons? Yes, there will be some of that, but better yet, we chose to celebrate with the communities we serve with
80 Acts of Kindness! Throughout 2018, SCU will show the ways 'we've got you' by completing a variety of Acts of Kindness. From sponsorships and donations to different giveaways, be on the lookout as you'll never know where an SCU crew may randomly pop-up!
Much has changed with the banking industry over the last 80 years but one thing that won't is the way, 'We've got you'. We strive to always meet the credit union philosophy of 'people helping people' while truly embracing our core values and providing the best member experience possible. SCU has been around since 1938 and throughout our history have been committed to giving back because, after all, we are the communities we serve.
We'd like to thank all who have helped create and lead our credit union, our members and the communities we serve for their constant support. Cheers to many more years!
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Change Your Habitudes 2.0
Are Fears, Doubts, Insecurities Holding You Back? Then it's Time to Change Your Habitudes!
Well, if you are looking to take action and change those beliefs that are holding you back, then you'll be joining me in Sturbridge, MA for the Change Your Habitudes 2.0 workshop!
Habitudes . . . those persistent ways of thinking and acting that shape your personal narrative.
Negative thinking patterns can limit the quality of life you desire. Learning how to transcend those limitations is key to achieving your goals and getting to that next level in your life.
"I have a better understanding of how I own my habitudes. Acknowledging their origin and my role in developing them and sustaining them brought me to the realization that I can amend them."
~ Kelly Snell, attendee, October 2017 Change Your Habitudes Workshop
So how do we change these Habitudes that do not serve us? How do we make the shift towards positive thoughts and actions? By exploring, breaking down, and understanding the Habitude process.
Change Your Habitudes 2.0 will:
Explore the Six Basic Human Needs -- Which are driving you?
Help you uncover the Negative Habitudes holding you back
Examine key decisions that direct your actions
Offer strategies for releasing those negative thought patterns
"Great transformational program. Real 'take home' skills will make a difference in the way I approach life and change habits that don't serve me. Thanks for an amazing experience, and full of humor, too!!!"
~ L.J. S., attendee, June 2017, Change Your Habitudes Workshop
You will also learn how to break the negative Habitude cycle through reframing using the 5-step process of Strategic Goal Mapping -- a creative and graphic vision-board based goal-mapping technique.
Strategic Goal Mapping (SGM) is a system I developed that incorporates the highly effective graphic technique of mind-mapping with a Habitude analysis action plan. By mapping out your Habitudes in a visual way, you connect thoughts, emotions and behaviors around a central goal and create an action plan that works.
So join me in Sturbridge on Tuesday, April 10. Seating for this workshop is limited so act fast!
INVESTMENT: $147.00 (Workshop and materials) Keep reading for special deal!
BONUS #1! CMS members receive one (1) free strategic personal coaching session with Rita . . . a $95 value. Session is held in person (Sturbridge office), or by phone, Skype, Facetime, or Doxy.me.
BONUS #2! CMS Folks! Use PROMO CODE CMS and get an additional 20% off! Final price: $117.60 plus 1 Free coaching session!
Tuesday, April 10, 2018, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Sturbridge, MA
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bankHOMETOWN Contributes $12,800 To Local United Way Chapters
L to R: Mary O'Coin, Executive Director, United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton, Massachusetts
Janet Scheffler, Executive Director, United Way of Webster and Dudley, Massachusetts
Michael D. Hewitt, President and CEO, bankHometown
Tina Puzo, AVP, Auburn Branch Manager, bankHometown
Jody Athanasiou, Director of Resource Development, United Way of North Central Massachusetts
Michael Hewitt, President and CEO of bankHometown, announced the bank has raised $12,800 during their Annual Giving Campaign benefiting three local chapters of the United Way.
Chapters of United Way are vital links between local non-profit organizations and the residents who live in those towns to ensure better lives for those less fortunate in our communities. These funds have been exclusively raised by bankHometown employees over the past year.
bankHometown employees, throughout their 13 branches and Operations Center, have been participating in this bank wide Annual Giving Campaign for more than 30 years. In addition to their monetary support, employees volunteer at a variety of events with the United Way and their partner organizations, including a bank-wide "Day of Caring" held each September.
The chapters that benefited from this year's campaign are:
United Way of Webster and Dudley, Massachusetts
United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton, Massachusetts
United Way of North Central Massachusetts
Tina Puza, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager at bankHometown's Auburn Office, coordinated this year's successful campaign for the bank. She said, "I am so thankful for all bankHometown employees that have either made donations or have volunteered their time for United Way this year. The resources and dedication that the United Way provides to our communities are invaluable and we thank them for all that they do on a daily basis. I truly feel that together we are helping those in need and making a positive difference in our communities."
bankHometown is headquartered in Oxford, Massachusetts and has $730 million in assets. bankHometown has served its communities since 1889 and operates thirteen full service offices; eight in central Massachusetts and five located in northeastern Connecticut.
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Country Bank Donates $656,000 to Area Organizations in 2017
Country Bank reported that it donated $656,000 to over 400 organizations in 2017, through its Charitable Giving Program. Some of the recipients include: The Leicester Public Library, which received $16,000 to assist with their rehabilitation of their facility, and the Worcester County Food Bank, which received $10,000 to help them continue their mission of providing food to those in need.
The bank also teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to build a home in Worcester last September. "It was a very meaningful experience for our staff members to spend the day helping the family build their home." stated Paul Scully, President and CEO. "Helping them make their dream come true was very touching to us all." stated Jessica McGarry, Vice President of Commercial Lending.
"Our mission is to grow mutually beneficial relationships with our customers, community and staff. This is evidenced not only by our commitment to support these organizations with charitable contributions, but also with staff volunteer hours." stated Paul Scully. "In 2017, over 800 hours of personal time was given back by members of the Country Bank staff to their local communities."
In addition to their volunteer hours, the staff also raised more than $33,000 through their own Employee Charitable Giving events such as jean days, bake sales and raffles.
One thing you can be sure of, Country Bank will continue to support their friends and neighbors, as stated in their slogan "We think giving back is one of the most cutting edge things a bank will ever do."
About Country Bank
Country Bank is a full-service mutual community bank serving central and western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton and Worcester. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at
countrybank.com.
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The Easter Bunny Hops Over to North Brookfield Savings Bank
The famous seasonal bunny will visit each branch location.
A sure sign of springtime is the arrival of the beloved seasonal Easter Bunny! He is ready to make his rounds to visit local children and he is starting at your favorite local bank. From March 16th through the 31st, the Easter Bunny is hopping down the bunny trail to visit North Brookfield Savings Bank branch locations.
All are welcome to the series of family friendly events. The Easter Bunny will eggcitedly await visitors who can enjoy fun activities, yummy treats and, of course, keepsake photos with the Easter Bunny. Don't miss out on this eggcellent hopportunity to bring the whole family and your camera to North Brookfield Savings Bank!
The Easter Bunny will hop over to visit North Brookfield Savings Bank branches at the following dates and times:
Palmer Branch
Friday, March 16, 1:00 - 4:00PM
1051 Thorndike Street
Palmer, MA
Belchertown Branch
Saturday, March 17, 9:00 - 12:00PM
10 Daniel Shays Highway, Route 9 & 202
Belchertown, MA
East Brookfield Branch
Saturday, March 24, 9:00 - 12:00PM
100 West Main Street, Route 9
East Brookfield, MA
Ware Branch
Friday, March 30, 10:00AM - 12:00PM
40 Main Street, Route 9
Ware, MA
West Brookfield Branch
Friday, March 30, 1:00 - 4:00PM
128 West Main Street, Route 9
West Brookfield, MA
North Brookfield Branch
Saturday, March 31, 9:00 - 12:00PM
9 Gilbert Street
North Brookfield, MA
To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank's community giving efforts and all of the convenient banking products and services offered, visit
www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com
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This is Paradise: An Irish Mother's Grief, an African Village's Plight
and the Clinic That Brought Fresh Hope to Both
For some individuals, tragedy becomes a catalyst for action and a way to deal with grief. For Mags Riordan, a former guidance counselor from Ireland, the drowning death of her son Billy in Lake Malawi in the village of Cape MacClear led to the creation of a much-needed medical clinic.
The Harrington Auxiliary invites members and the general public to attend a special presentation/book signing event on
Tuesday, April 10, 2018 from 2 to 4 p.m. in Harrington Hospital Conference Rooms 1 and 2, featuring Mags Riordan, founder of the Billy Riordan Memorial Clinic, and Suzanne Strempek Shea, a Western Massachusetts writer, writer-in-residence and director of the creative writing program at Bay Path College who wrote
This is Paradise: An Irish Mother's Grief, an African Village's Plight and the Medical Clinic that Brought Fresh Hope to Both. The two women will present this heart-warming story to the audience. Books will be available for purchase.
In February 2000, one year after Billy's death, Mags traveled to Cape MacClear to place a memorial stone by the Lake to commemorate his life. During the three months she spent there, Mags witnessed famine, a cholera outbreak, rampant malaria and a high rate of HIV/AIDs. These conditions, in combination with lack of access to medical care, prompted her to open a medical clinic and provide other important services to the community.
Since its inception in 2004, the not-for-profit clinic has become a 24/7 operation, employs and trains more than 32 local people, and serves between 80 and 120 patients on a daily basis. In this presentation, Mags will describe her efforts to launch this clinic, to offer educational opportunities for local students and to initiate a supplementary feeding program, school health program and family planning services.
The event is free, although donations to benefit the clinic are welcome. The presentation is open to the public and includes light refreshments. Handcrafted jewelry and other items made by the men and women of Malawi will be available for purchase. Make your reservations today by stopping at the Volunteer Office at Harrington Hospital or by calling the office at 508-765-6473. The event is also posted on the Harrington Auxiliary Facebook page (
www.facebook.com/HarringtonHospitalAuxiliary).
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Hires Kevin Berube as
Assistant Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer
 North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) is pleased to announce that Kevin Berube has joined The Business Center Team as Assistant Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer.
"With Kevin's extensive lending experience and his knowledge within the commercial lending sector, he is an excellent addition to our expert Business Center team," said Donna Boulanger, President and CEO of North Brookfield Savings Bank. "He is well-prepared to provide our business customers with the resources, information and guidance they need to reach their goals."
Berube, of Rutland, MA, joins a reputable business banking team and will work from his office based out of North Brookfield Savings Bank's Business Center located at 40 Main Street in Ware, MA. Berube will also travel for the convenience of business customers throughout Central and Western Massachusetts. In his role, he will be responsible for developing new and existing commercial lending relationships, advising business customers on the available lending products, and helping borrowers to achieve their financing goals.
Berube has a strong professional lending background spanning more than 20 years and most recently held the position of Vice President of Commercial Lending and Business Development at Alden Credit Union where he was responsible for establishing and supervising the Commercial Lending Department, managing the commercial portfolio, among other responsibilities. Berube holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Emmanuel College and is a United States Army veteran. He is licensed by the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, NMLS License ID# 1313699 and is a member of the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce, the Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce and Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
"I very much look forward to servicing this community as a part of the North Brookfield Savings Bank Business Center team. I believe that relationships with customers is a partnership. I eagerly anticipate developing those relationships and providing business banking services to customers in order to help facilitate their success," said Kevin Berube, North Brookfield Savings Bank Assistant Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer. "I wish to continue to nurture and grow the Bank's commercial loan portfolio to enhance our footprint in our community and to add to the excellent foundation that supports North Brookfield Savings Bank for many years to come."
Kevin Berube, Assistant Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer can be reached directly by calling 508-637-7501 or by emailing [email protected]. For commercial loan and deposit information, contact the North Brookfield Savings Bank Business Center at 508-637-7500 or
[email protected].
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Two Rotary Clubs Join Forces to Create a Community Garden
You read a teaser notice in the March 1 Crossroads about a new community garden coming to town. You may have found out who we are by now, but if not, here's the scoop!
The Sturbridge Rotary Club has partnered with the Southbridge Rotary Club to formally charter the
"Rotary Community Corps of Sturbridge and Southbridge" (RCC). The RCC's first project is the creation of the
"Community Food Collaborative" (CFC) located in Sturbridge.
The Mission Statement of the
Community Food Collaborative is to help foster a greater sense of community by involving neighbors, volunteer organizations, as well as mentoring local youth. Throughout each growing season, nutritious organic vegetables will be grown and donated entirely to the Saint John Paul II Food Pantry, which serves families in need in both Southbridge and Sturbridge.
One objective of Sturbridge Rotary has been to help feed the less fortunate and they have been doing so for a number of years with an annual dedicated fundraiser for the Saint John Paul II Food Pantry. Southbridge Rotary has held similar fundraisers. Therefore, it was a logical transition for both Clubs to add another level of support for the Food Pantry.
After researching and visiting four available sites for the garden, the site chosen is on Maple Street behind the Sturbridge Town Hall. The garden plot is owned by the Sturbridge Federated Church, which gave permission for the RCC to use it for this purpose. Several years ago, it had been a garden for the members of the Church. The garden already as a fence, raised beds, and a tool shed. Rotarians cleared the weeds last fall and after further prep work and repairs, planting will begin this spring.
The RCC's current partners for the garden project are the Rotary Clubs of Sturbridge and Southbridge, Joseph Coan Landscape Architecture, Sturbridge Federated Church Men's Group and the St. John Paul II Food Pantry. We'd love to have more partners help us with this project, as well as many volunteers. The RCC is a volunteer driven organization and needs your help. We encourage local companies, organizations, schools, seniors, social groups and community volunteers to join us in this effort.
Visit the
Community Food Collaborative Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/cfcgardens/ to learn more about the project, see photos as the project continues, and sign up to volunteer. If you are not physically able to help in the garden, you can still help by donating funds and/or new or used garden tools. With lots of volunteers, we'll need lots of tools. There's also a form on the Facebook page for donations of funds or tools. If you'd like to contact us with questions, please email
[email protected].
Let's make the
Community Food Collaborative a great community project focused on local hunger relief by growing fresh, organic vegetables. Volunteers of all ages working together, getting to know each other, having fun and feeling good about what we're doing to help, is what this project is all about.
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Get Ready to Spring Outdoors!
The third annual Spring Outdoors event, to be held March 20 to June 21, 2018, is shaping up to be a special time in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor. Like Walktober, Spring Outdoors features a variety of adventures from strolls to long distance hikes and paddles to bikes and more!
Spring Outdoors began in 2016 as a way to celebrate nature's return from its winter slumber in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor. In just its first two years, Spring Outdoors, which is a program of TLGV, bloomed into an event featuring more than 210 adventures attended by more than 18,000 people.
"We live in such a special location," said Lois Bruinooge, TLGV executive director. "Spring Outdoors is a celebration of what makes the National Heritage Corridor an extraordinary place."
"Our partners help make this happen," said Lois Bruinooge, executive director of TLGV. "The collaboration we create together puts a spotlight on the national heritage corridor and benefits everyone in it."
The Last Green Valley is a National Heritage Corridor - the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. The Last Green Valley, Inc. works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. We help you to care for it, enjoy it and pass it on.
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Donation Helps Youth Programs at Library
Board member, Robert White, presented the check to Children's Librarian, Pat Lalli (center) and to Donna Englander,
Friends president (right)
Sturbridge Rotary Club recently donated $5,000 to
The Friends of the Joshua Hyde Public Library in Sturbridge. These funds will be used to support children's and youth programs at the library. The library was thrilled with our donation because many of the programs the library offers would not exist without outside funding provided by the
Friends.
Some of the many children and youth programs offered include story times, ELF (Early Literacy & Fun), crafts and supplies, school vacation week programs and the Summer Reading Program. The
Friends also recently started a Summer Young Adult program that includes reading, technology programs and other fun activities.
The donation is a logical fit for Sturbridge Rotary because we fund other educational programs for local youth. We award scholarships each year to local senior students pursuing a college degree, as well as leadership training for several high school sophomores. We're looking forward to hearing about the success of the children's and youth programs at the library.
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Small Office Space For Rent
212 Main Street, Sturbridge
Need to get things done in Sturbridge? Les Gardner has a small office available to rent within his space in the McCurdy Insurance Building at 212 Main Street, Sturbridge. The space measures approximately 12' x 12' or 150 square feet. This convenient work space includes internet access and a desk. If you are interested or have more questions, contact Les directly at 508-347-7177.
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"Autumn arrives in early morning, but spring at the close of a winter day."
- Elizabeth Bowen
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Stageloft Theater Presents
JAKE'S WOMEN
by Neil Simon
March 9 - 18
Directed by Josh Raymond
Presented in collaboration with BEAT Theater Company
Jake, a novelist who is more successful with fiction than with life, faces a marital crisis by daydreaming about the women in his life. The wildly comic and sometimes moving flashbacks played in his mind are interrupted by visitations from actual females. Jake's women include a revered first wife who was killed years earlier in an accident, his daughter who is recalled as a child but is now a young woman, his boisterous and bossy sister, an opinionated analyst, his current wife who is leaving Jake for another man, and a prospective third wife.
Call or visit online for tickets.
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Cooking with Rico and Dan: A Return to Italy
Thursday, March 15, 6:30 pm
In this first return to "Cooking with Rico" events to be held monthly at Avellino, Chef Rico will bring us back to where it all started in "A Return to Italy." Chef Rico is well known for his passionate Italian cooking style, taking great pleasure discussing and demonstrating the preparation of each savory course. Rico and Dan will take you on a culinary tour of some of their favorite regional Italian foods. As always, these events often sell out so make your reservation early. This event is $48 per person with wine pairings, or $39 without. Tax and gratuity are not included. Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321.
Cooking with Rico returns to Avellino this year as Cooking with Rico & Dan. Fresh with new ideas, Chef Rico and Chef Daniel will be combining their efforts to produce some spectacular cooking demonstrations and dining events throughout 2018.
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Second Chance Animal Shelter Pet Adoptions
March 16, 2:00-4:00pm
Spring Fling! My bags are packed and I'm ready to go!
MOBILE ADOPTION UNIT is coming to Klems! On the road to saving more lives!
Be sure to stop by and say hi to some of the sweet dogs and cats looking for a new home!
Let adoption help you find your next best friend.
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The Woodstock Academy invites everyone to shake off the winter blues and join in a celebration of the beginning of spring and everything that is new at the school.
In association with Putnam Bank, The Woodstock Academy proudly presents:
The Marshall Tucker Band in concert at the Center for the Arts
on Friday, March 16th
Doors will open at 6:15 and the show will begin at 7 p.m. with Cold Train, New England's own southern rock tribute band, opening for The Marshall Tucker Band.
Food and beverages will be available for concert-goers to purchase at the show.
The benefit performance will help The Academy continue to make improvements to
the Center for the Arts.
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Maple Days and More at Old Sturbridge Village
Weekends in March: March 17-18,
and 24-25
For many at Old Sturbridge Village, the first whiff of spring isn't the aroma of spring flowers - it's the smell of wood smoke and maple syrup, a sure sign that the sap is rising and spring is on the way. Join us for four weekends of our Maple Days event throughout March, where you can see maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century rural New England in OSV's working sugar camp.
See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to "sugaring off," and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England.
Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products by the hearth at the Village's Freeman Farm. In addition, the potter and cooper will be making maple related items.
Molly Geet, the Indian Doctress, will also be here to share Native American Sugaring practices and Native American storytelling.
Saturday, March 17, 2018 - 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Adults: $32.95, Seniors: $28.95, Children ages 3 -12: $11.95, Children under 3: Free
(prices do not include tax and gratuity)
Reservations are required; Please call 508-347-0397 Monday - Friday from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm for reservations. The Easter Brunch offered at the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village promises an extensive buffet in a charming setting.
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road
Sturbridge MA 01566
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Beekeeping Seminar
March 17, 2018, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Klem's
All the buzz! Free to attend. Tips for Beginners!
Instructed by Roland Sevigney, who has 46 Years of Experience, as well as, Member & Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Worcester County Beekeepers Association.
Take Advantage of In-Store Beekeeping Specials!
Klem's 117 West Main Street, Spencer 508-885-2708
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Classes at Hitchcock Academy
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Start 2018 off Right!
Complimentary Financial Planning & Investment Workshop
Wednesday, March 21, 2018, Time: 6:30 - 7:30
212 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA
Personal Financial Planning
This workshop is designed to provide the average person with the basic knowledge necessary to make beneficial financial decisions.
We will cover the following:
- Basic planning concepts and ideas
- How & What do I do about investing
- Retirement planning & Retirement plans
- Tools to make better personal financial decisions.
Please RSVP by March 16th to:
Instructor: Dennis McCurdy CFP®
Registered Investment Financial Advisor
Dennis A. McCurdy is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional practicing at 212 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566. He can be reached at 508-347-8107 or at
[email protected].
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Sturbridge Meet The Candidates Night
March 22, 6:30-8:00pm
Comfort Inn, 215 Charlton Rd. Route 20, Sturbridge
Sturbridge residents and business owners are invited to attend a "Meet the Candidates" Night hosted by the newly-formed Sturbridge Business Advocacy Group (BAG). Meet the candidates running for town positions in the April election. Bring your questions and learn more about the candidates and their positions on the issues that matter to you most!
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March 24, 2018, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Klem's
Hop on in and take a photo with the Easter Bunny!
Children & Pets Welcome!
$5.00 Donation to the Spencer American Legion.
Klem's 117 West Main Street, Spencer 508-885-2708
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March 24, 2018, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Healthy Kids Make for Healthy Adults!
Celebrate Healthy Kids Day
® at the YMCA with a community event to get kids
moving and learning, and families living healthier.
The event is FREE for everyone, with swimming, rock wall climbing and a moonbounce, book fair, activities and demonstrations, along with representatives from various community
health-promoting organizations.
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Second Chance Animal Services
ANNUAL DINNER AUCTION
March 24, 2018
This is one of the largest fundraisers for the Second Chance Animal Shelter and we are gladly accepting donations of new items to the action. It will be a lot of fun with Chinese raffles, silent auction, as well as our live auction. We hope to see you all there! Tickets sell fast so reserve
yours now as they will NOT be available at the door.
WHEN:
Saturday, March 24, 2018
TIME:
4:00 pm
Social hour
6:00 pm
Dinner
Auction will immediately follow dinner
WHERE:
Leicester
Country Club
1430
Main Street
,
Leicester
,
MA
01524
(508) 892-1390
COST:
$42 per person
Donate an Item or Purchase an Ad
Second Chance's Auction Preview Night & Networking Event
March 22, 5:00-7:00pm, Leicester Country Club
Come network, preview and bid on auction items while enjoying the hospitality of one of the premiere venues in Central Mass. Auctions will close at the dinner auction on March 24th. Appetizers will be served.
FREE Admission at Door with Donation to Second Chance
Contact Second Chance at 508-867-5525
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Comedy Crushes Cancer at The Barn at Wight Farm
Saturday, March 24 at 7pm
Join your hosts Mike Cantwell and Pete Connly for a hilarious fund raiser for a serious cause at The Barn on March 24. If this election year isn't comedic enough and you still have some room for laughter, we have a great night of comedy lined-up featuring two professional comedians. Per usual, the Barn servers and bartenders will be there to make sure your night is a good one. Chef Tony will have a light Barn menu if all the laughter works up a bit of hunger.
A donation of $30 per person is requested. Doors open at 7:00pm. Show begins at 8:00pm. Contact Mike Cantwell at 774-200-7077 for ticket information.
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Easter Breakfast Buffet
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Seatings from 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Adults $18.95 Children $9.95 (3-11yrs)
(plus tax & gratuity)
Reservations Required
Fresh Seasonal Fruit Salad
Assorted Fresh Publick House Breakfast Pastries
Assorted Cold Cereals
Scrambled Eggs
Quiche Lorraine
Bacon and Sausage
Corned Beef Hash
Home-Fried Breakfast Potatoes
Omelets Made to Order Station
Ham, Bacon, Peppers, Onions, Tomatoes, Spinach, Swiss Cheese
Belgian Waffles with Whipped Cream,
Strawberries and Warmed Syrup
Cheese Blintzes with Fruit Compote
Coffee, Tea, Juice or Soft Drink
Call Publick House at 508-347-7323 ext. 400 for reservations.
Easter Buffet
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Seatings from 10:30AM - 6:30PM
Adults $36.95 Children $14.95 (3-11yrs)
(plus tax & gratuity)
Reservations Required
Featuring:
Salads, Entrees, Carving Station (Roast Prime Rib of Beef, Easter Ham), Seafood Display, Sides, Children's Station, Delectable Desserts Station, House-Made Sweet Pecan Rolls and Dinner Rolls
Visit the link for the complete menu.
Call Publick House at 508-347-7323 ext. 400 for reservations.
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Salem Cross inn
260 West Main Street, Route 9
West Brookfield, MA
Rich with history, the
Salem Cross Inn
is a restored 18th century farmhouse
nestled on 600 acres of New England countryside.
Easter Dinner at Salem Cross Inn
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Break bread with family and friends and enjoy our special Easter Menu, including:
featured drinks, appetizers, eight entrèe options, and homemade desserts.
Tables fill up quickly, so please make your reservations early!
Our Dining Room is open from 11:30 to 4:00 with reservations on the half hour.
We require a $10 non-refundable deposit per person to reserve your spot.
The full deposit will be applied to your bill.
Visit the website and make your reservations online* or call Salem Cross Inn at (508) 867-2345.
*For parties of 9 or more you MUST reserve by phone.
Only parties of 8 or less can order online.
Fireplace Feast Season Continues through April!
March 16 & 31, April 8, 15, 20, 22, & 29
Experience the inn's series of 1700's style feasts, prepared on the open hearth of a great field stone fireplace. Relax by the fire or lend a hand as dinner is prepared for you in colonial style. Stir the chowder as it bubbles in our cast iron cauldron. See your prime rib, roasted 'to a turn,' as the only known authentic Roasting Jack still operating in America rotates slowly over a
crackling fire of wild cherry logs.
Held on various dates through April,
Fireplace Feast is an experience you won't forget!
Learn more and make reservations here.
Hours in March 2018
Main Dining Room:
Thursday & Friday- 11:30 am-9:00 pm
Saturday- 5:00 pm-9:00 pm
Sunday- 12:00 pm-8:00 pm
Hexmark Tavern:
Thursday & Friday- 4:00 pm-9:00 pm
Live music every Friday
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Easter at Table 3 Restaurants
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Easter Jazz Brunch at the Barn
Sunday, April 1, 10am-4pm
Join us from 10am-4pm for our first Easter brunch buffet at The Barn at Wight Farm while listening to the jazzy sounds of Dale LePage and Joe D'Angelo. The Barn's buffet will be brimming with all your favorites and some of Chef Tony's and Chef Rico's inspirations.
The price for this Easter extravaganza is just $38.95 per guest (plus tax & gratuity).
Make your reservations now by calling Danielle Green at 774-241-8450.
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Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Thursday Evenings, 7:00-8:15pm
CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH CONFERENCE ROOM
46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
Village Toastmasters is a local group focused on helping its members improve their public speaking and leadership skill while building confidence in their abilities.
The club has recently moved its meeting location.
As of Thursday, April 27, 2017, Village Toastmasters will meet every Thursday from 7:00-8:15 pm at the offices of the Chamber of Central Mass South, located at 46 Hall Road, Sturbridge.
We are grateful to our community partners!
Guests are always welcome!!
Please arrive 15 minutes early (6:45pm) as meetings start promptly.
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Please join The Winebuyer's Outlet / Sturbridge Cheese & Chocolate at their Free Tastings of Artisan Cheeses, luscious Chocolates & Fine Wines every Saturday from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. This is a great way to taste before you buy and discover new favorites!
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Click on the image to browse our catalog of training courses!
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Save these Dates!
March 20: Spring Arrives
March 22:
Ribbon Cutting at Red Door Realty
March 27: Brown Bag Seminar: Social Media, Now What?
March 29: Harassment Prevention in the Workplace Seminar
April 1: Happy Easter!
April 9: Fun at Five at Rapscallion with Opacum Land Trust
April 25: JOB FAIR at Bay Path RVT High School
May 3: Lunch With Secretary Sudders
June 21: CMS Chamber GOLF CLASSIC
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