Welcome to Crossroads EVENTS!
Happy Holidays! The last issue of CROSSROADS for 2020 is here with glad tidings from our Members and friends, including several new Member welcomes and the first news from the state on a Covid-19 vaccine distribution timelime. We would like to thank you all for your continued support during this most trying year and wish you the very best as we approach 2021 with high hopes and bright expectations!
Crossroads is our Members' platform to share their latest news with fellow Chamber Members and our community. Thank you for entering your upcoming happenings on our Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in our e-newsletter.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
Effective Monday, December 14, the Chamber office will be open by appointment only.
Please give us a ring at 508-347-2761 if you will be visiting.
Masks must be worn.
HOLIDAY HOURS
The Chamber and its office will be closed from December 24 through January 3, 2021.
The Chamber will re-open on January 4 but the office will remain closed to the public until January 11.
On January 12, regular office hours will resume by appointment with masks being required.
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- MA rolled back to Phase 3, Step 1 on 12/13
- Capacity reductions for businesses
- New mask, table capacity, time limit rules for restaurants
- Stronger mask rules for offices
For the latest info on COVID-19 Cases, Travel, & Reopening
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Baker-Polito Administration Announces Statewide Rollback to Phase Three, Step One, Additional Restrictions Effective December 13th
Governor Baker Announces New Restrictions Statewide for Capacity, Mask Compliance and Distancing
Due to Increased Cases, Hospitalizations
12/08/2020
Office of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito
Governor's Press Office
Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development
Executive Office of Health and Human Services
Department of Public Health
BOSTON — The Baker-Polito Administration announced that effective Sunday, December 13th, all communities in Massachusetts will return to Step 1 of Phase 3, of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan. This will reduce indoor capacities across a broad range of sectors of the economy and tighten several other workplace restrictions. The Administration announced the roll-back to respond to an increase in new COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations since the Thanksgiving holiday that is straining the health care system in Massachusetts.
The return to Step 1 will also require the closure of certain businesses designated as Step 2 industries. These include indoor performance venues and certain high-contact indoor recreational businesses. In addition, capacity limits will be reduced to 40% statewide for most industries, and the limit on outdoor gatherings will be reduced statewide from 100 persons to 50 persons.
Additional safety measures will be applied to restaurant dining as well.
These new measures are designed to prevent infection and viral spread, especially in indoor settings. They will create stronger mask compliance, more social distancing, and limits to the time spent with people outside of your immediate household.
The Administration also announced additional guidance for certain sectors including restaurants, office spaces and gyms, to address activities where mask wearing is not possible at all times.
Phase III, Step I:
Effective December 13, all communities will roll back to Phase 3, Step 1 of Massachusetts’ re-opening plan, including the following restrictions:
- Outdoor gatherings at event venues will be limited to no more than 50 people
- Hosts of outdoor gatherings of greater than 25 people will be required to provide advance notice of the gathering their local board of health
- Indoor theaters and performance venues and higher contact indoor recreation businesses will be required to close to the public
- Outdoor theaters and performance venues will be limited to 25% capacity, and no more than 50 people
In all communities, capacity will be reduced from 50% to 40% for the following sectors:
- Arcades/Indoor and Outdoor Recreational Businesses
- Driving and Flight Schools
- Gyms/Health Clubs
- Libraries
- Museums
- Retail
- Offices
- Places of Worship
- Lodging (common areas)
- Golf facilities
- Movie Theaters (Maximum 50 people per theater)
This new capacity limit will not apply to sectors that do not currently have a percentage-based capacity limit, including restaurants, laboratories and close contact personal services.
Restaurants and Venues
The Administration also announced new guidelines for restaurants and other venues with seated dining, including:
- Patrons must wear masks at all times except when eating and drinking
- Restaurants must seat no more than six patrons per table
- Restaurants must impose a 90-minute time limit on tables
- Musical performances at restaurants will no longer be permitted
- Food court seating must be closed in malls
Customers are encouraged to dine only with members of the same household.
Offices and Gyms
The Administration announced new guidelines for workplaces and gyms, including:
- In offices, employees must wear masks at their place of work when not in their own workspace and alone
- Employers are encouraged to close or limit the use of break rooms
- Patrons must wear masks at all times in gyms
The Administration continues to encourage all employers to offer teleworking to their employees when possible.
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Baker-Polito Administration Announces Initial Steps for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution
12/09/2020
Office of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito
Governor's Press Office
Executive Office of Health and Human Services
Department of Public Health
BOSTON — Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced allocation and distribution plans for the first round of COVID-19 vaccine shipments to Massachusetts set to begin around December 15. The state’s first shipment of 59,475 doses of the Pfizer vaccine was ordered from the federal government this past Friday and will be delivered directly to 21 hospitals across 8 counties, as well as to the Department of Public Health Immunization lab.
Doses will then be redistributed for access to 74 hospitals across all 14 counties for front line medical workers. The next 40,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine will be allocated to the Federal Pharmacy Program to begin vaccinating staff and residents of skilled nursing facilities, rest homes and assisted living residences.
Vaccine is being prioritized for these groups to maximize life preservation and to support the health care system. Based on information at this time, Massachusetts is expecting 300,000 first doses of the vaccine to be delivered by the end of December. The first vaccines, manufactured by Moderna and Pfizer, will require two doses administered 3-4 weeks apart.
While all delivery dates and quantities are subject to change due to ongoing federal approval and allocation, the Administration plans to receive and distribute over 2 million doses to priority population groups by the end of March.
In collaboration with the COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Group, the Administration designated groups of medical workers, first responders and residents most at risk for serious illness to receive the vaccine before the general population. The Vaccine Advisory Group is made up of leading medical, infectious disease and public health experts as well as representatives from communities of color and representatives of high-risk populations.
Communities of color and at-risk populations are prioritized throughout the process to maximize life preservation and to prevent serious complications from COVID related illnesses.
Anticipated Vaccination Phases and Timeline:
Phase One (December 2020-February 2021):
In order of priority
- Clinical and non-clinical healthcare workers doing direct and COVID-facing care
- Long term care facilities, rest homes and assisted living facilities
- Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services
- Congregate care settings (including shelters and corrections)
- Home-based healthcare workers
- Healthcare workers doing non-COVID facing care
Phase Two (February 2021-April 2021):
In order of priority
- Individuals with 2+ comorbidities (high risk for COVID-19 complications)
- Early education, K-12, transit, grocery, utility, food and agriculture, sanitation, public works and public health workers
- Adults 65+
- Individuals with one comorbidity
Phase Three (April 2021- ):
- Vaccine available to general public
The first shipments of the vaccine are expected to contain doses manufactured by Pfizer and Moderna. While both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are pending FDA emergency use authorization, Massachusetts will not distribute the COVID-19 vaccine until it receives this authorization.
Vaccines go through extensive testing, more than any pharmaceuticals, including extensive testing in clinical trials. The FDA, which approves the vaccine, and the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which will make its recommendation for use, must ensure any vaccine is both safe and effective for the public before approval and distribution.
The infectious disease experts in the state’s academic medical centers have pledged to review the EUA data and provide an independent opinion about their safety and efficacy.
All residents should visit www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccine to learn more or contact their medical provider for questions about their vaccination plans.
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That’s the Spirit!
The Chamber would like to thank everyone for KEEPING IT LOCAL this holiday season and participating in our SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS Contest! We will announce and notify the winners this Thursday! Thank you to our wonderful Chamber businesses, shops, services and attractions! We’ve seen creative promotions, spectacular decorations, and many amazing deals offered by our Members all through the season. What an incredible community of businesses we have! Thank you to our Members who donated prizes for the contest and to our amazing contest sponsor, Cornerstone Bank! The Chamber is grateful to YOU most of all for supporting LOCAL this holiday shopping season!
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Welcome, New Members!
Park Place Salon
Look your very best for celebrating in person and on your holiday Zoom calls with great hair from Park Place Salon located at 500 Main Street, Fiskdale. We are so pleased to welcome Lisa and Park Place Salon to the Chamber of Central Mass South.
Established in 2001, Park Place specializes in hair services and also offers facial waxing and eyebrow shaping as well as makeup application. Lisa and her team of dedicated stylists are committed to providing their clients unparalleled services. Each of the salon’s five stylists has unique areas of talent to appeal to a wide variety of preferences. Park Place is a teaching and learning salon, so they are knowledgeable on the latest trends in the ever-changing hair industry while constantly striving for excellence.
Park Place Salon believes that great hair begins with professionals who are dedicated to their craft.
ColBro Electrical Services
ColBro Electrical Services, LLC offers residential and light commercial electrical services primarily in the Central Massachusetts area. ColBro's primary focus is on electrical service upgrades, repairs and additions. ColBro also offers weighing system installs, repairs and calibration.
GigXero
The future of bandwidth and communications in buildings, campuses and entire communities. GigXero redefines what is possible in extreme bandwidth and transformative Internet access. Focused on reliability, performance, flexibility, and affordability GigXero is a pioneer in rapid deployment hybrid wireless and FSO network infrastructures.
The Chamber is pleased to welcome this new regional affiliate Member through the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Northeast Properties Management
Northeast Properties, founded in 2003, not only manages but owns quality residential & commercial properties throughout Central MA. Their mission is to constantly strive to meet and exceed their tenants’ needs and expectations.
The Chamber is pleased to welcome this new regional affiliate Member through the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
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KEEP IT LOCAL!
REMEMBER YOUR MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
Click on the M2M logo to see many great offers from Members... for Members!
Like these...
10% off all purchases at Sturbridge Pottery
10% discount off food purchases at The Duck
10% off Bulk Herbs &Teas at Alternatives For Health
15% off Entrees at Salem Cross Inn
10% off purchases of $250 or more at Morin Jewelers
...and many more!
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SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available in Massachusetts Following
Secretary of Agriculture Disaster Declaration for Drought Beginning May 26
ATLANTA - The U.S. Small Business Administration announced today that Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and private nonprofit organizations in Franklin and Worcester counties in Massachusetts due to a drought that began on May 26, 2020.
“These counties are eligible because they are contiguous to one or more primary counties in New Hampshire. The Small Business Administration recognizes that disasters do not usually stop at county or state lines. For that reason, counties adjacent to primary counties named in the declaration are included,” said Michael Lampton, acting director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East.
Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible farm-related and nonfarm-related entities that suffered financial losses as a direct result of this disaster. Except for aquaculture enterprises, SBA cannot provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers and ranchers. Nurseries are eligible to apply for economic injury disaster loans for losses caused by drought conditions.
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates of 3 percent for small businesses and 2.75 percent for private nonprofit organizations of all sizes, with terms up to 30 years. The SBA determines eligibility based on the size of the applicant, type of activity and its financial resources. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. These working capital loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred. The loans are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.
Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov and should apply under SBA declaration #16792, not for the COVID-19 incident.
Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Loan application forms can be downloaded from sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than July 26, 2021.
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit sba.gov. |
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Country Bank Announces Sponsorship Agreement with Worcester Red Sox
(Worcester) – December 4, 2020 - Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving the region with assets of $1.8B, today announced that it entered into an elite-level corporate sponsorship arrangement as a Founding Partner of the Worcester Red Sox. Country Bank’s multi-tiered sponsorship includes an iconic sign in right field atop the stands known as the “Worcester Wall” along with the Country Bank Guests Services located on the first base concourse.
The partnership between the WooSox and Country Bank also underscores their mutual commitment to the community through the WooSox Foundation and Country Bank's Charitable Giving Program by supporting local non-profits in the region through a combined charitable giving campaign throughout the baseball season.
In addition, both organizations will be working together to launch a Teacher of the Month Program that recognizes the outstanding work teachers do every day to educate and support students.
“We have been impressed and inspired by Country Bank’s sense of community involvement,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “We see how helpful they are to various institutions and thousands of people in our region, and we welcome them to Polar Park with open arms as we work together to enhance the quality of life in our community even more.”
"In an era where spectator sports continue to be redefined by new norms of social distancing, sports sponsorships are taking on new forms. With that in mind, we couldn't be more excited to be a part of the WooSox, and the Worcester community. The addition of year-round entertainment, including ball games, concerts, and various family activities at Polar Park, is exciting for the people and businesses in the region. We all look forward to the day when we can come together again at the ballpark enjoying activities with our families and friends. We also look forward to seeing our businesses thrive once again after being heavily impacted by the pandemic," said Paul Scully, President and CEO of Country Bank.
To kick off their partnership, last week a team from Country Bank and the WooSox Mascot, Smiley Ball, delivered 500 Thanksgiving meals prepared by Old Sturbridge Village along with iconic apple pies from Worcester based Table Talk Pies to the St. John's Food Pantry for the Poor. "The alignment of our organizational values with the WooSox solidifies our commitment to service and teamwork as we continually strive for excellence in all we do," shared Scully.
Pictured in First Group Photo (l) – Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of Worcester Red Sox, Paul Scully, President and CEO of Country Bank, Mary McGovern, EVP and CFO of Country Bank, Tom Wolcott, SVP, Commercial Lending of Country Bank, Shelley Regin, SVP of Marketing of Country Bank and Jack Verducci, VP, Corporate Partnerships of the WooSox.
Pictured in Second Photo (r) - Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of Worcester Red Sox, Paul Scully, President and CEO of Country Bank.
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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Patrick Subaru Shares the Love with Second Chance
Annual Sales Event Supports Hometown Charities
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (December 7, 2020) – In a challenging year where donations are down over 40%, Second Chance Animal Services is thrilled to be included in the Share the Love Event at Patrick Subaru of Shrewsbury. For every new vehicle sold at Patrick Subaru from now until January 4th, Subaru of America will donate $250 to one of six charities of the customers choosing, including two "hometown" charities, Second Chance Animal Services and Habitat for Humanity Metrowest/Greater Worcester.
“We’re so grateful to be included in Share the Love alongside five other very worthy charities,” said Second Chance Development Director Lindsay Doray. “It’s been a very tough year for everyone as charities continue to do more with less while helping those in need. Patrick Subaru has pulled out all the stops to help pets at this very critical time. They’re also hosting a supply drive in their showroom and service area to collect much-needed supplies.”
“It truly touches us as a company how excited our customers get to be making a difference in their community,” remarked Patrick Motors Marketing Director Michelle Bourget. “These are charities that they're usually very familiar with, and more often than not, have a connection with. Our staff is happy to be participating in the Second Chance supply drive to brighten the ending of what has been a difficult year for everyone.”
The four additional national charities are the National Parks Foundation, Make-a-Wish, Meals on Wheels, and the ASPCA. Share the Love is entering its 13th year and is projecting to raise a lifetime total of $200 million dollars donated. They've raised $176 million total over the past twelve years. Customers who are interested in purchasing a vehicle for the Share the Love Event but are nervous or unsure about COVID-19 precautions at the dealership, are welcomed to do their entire purchase process over the phone or online.
PHOTO: Dog visiting the Patrick Subaru showroom.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance is a nonprofit 501c3 tax exempt organization that began in 1999 in East Brookfield and relies solely on donations from grants to operate. The organization operates an adoption center in East Brookfield, Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Springfield, and Worcester. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through adoption, spay/neuter, veterinary care, community outreach, educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
About Patrick Motors Subaru:
Patrick Motors Subaru has been proudly retailing and servicing Subarus since 1972. They are a family owned and operated business that is honored to be a member of the Worcester community and beyond.
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Old Sturbridge Village 75th Anniversary Commemorative Calendars are Available Now!
Join us as we welcome 2021 – the 75th Anniversary Year of Old Sturbridge Village with a new commemorative calendar. In early 2020, we launched a photography contest at the and, as a result, we received more than 400 entries! It was hard to choose just 12 winners, so we expanded the calendar to 18 months. We also added even more photos on each page as a complement to the black and white photography from our archives. These photos celebrate the beautiful New England seasons of the Village and are combined with vintage photos of years past.
Ring in the New Year with a beautiful keepsake calendar for $19.46 and save a bundle, on a bundle of five – just $75, and your loved ones will appreciate this thoughtful holiday gift.
The proceeds from this calendar will support the mission of Old Sturbridge Village as we enter our 75th year and beyond!
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HOLIDAY CHEER IS OUR SPECIALTY |
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COVID 19 Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Celebrate the Season.
The Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center is open (following Government regulations)
and available to host Holiday Cheer!
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Come to Shades Lounge to celebrate the holiday season!
Enjoy cocktails and a pub-style menu in a warm and comfortable atmosphere.
Open Friday-Saturdays from 4-9:30pm
Or….
Celebrate at your home or business with curb-side pick up of our holiday party menu items for individuals and businesses.
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Regardless of which option you choose, we follow Social Distancing Guidelines
to ensure that our guests enjoy a safe holiday season!
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Travel Virtually with Sbrogna's
Our Virtual Photography Travelogue program is narrated by professional photographer Ron Rosenstock whom I represent through Sbrogna’s Artistic Promotions.
We offer many one-hour virtual programs for purchase. A few locations which might be of interest to your staff or to your residents in Senior Living are Italy, Morocco, Ireland, and Iceland/Greenland. Please click on the thumbnail below to see a trailer for our Italy presentation!
This will give you an idea of what you can expect if you should invite us to do a virtual program at your facility. If you’re interested, please check out our website at www.sbrognaart.com and/or email at linda@sbrognaart.com or call me 508-318-3267. We are working hard to find ways to continue to inspire, educate, and show the beauty of our world to the community as we all continue to go through our current health crisis.
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Savor the Celebration
Birthday celebrations, meetings & holiday celebrations—just a few examples of the types of gatherings
we have helped our clients host.
With Publick House, you can rest assured attention to detail will not be lost. Order complete meals to celebrate the holiday season with your family or gather in your own office. We will leave you worry-free, no fears of gathering during COVID-19,
yet you can still enjoy an amazing meal.
Don’t miss out on celebrating the season with each other.
Holiday Meal – $24.50 Per Person
(Tax & Gratuity Not Included)
Available for Pick Up Individually Packaged and Ready To Go
House-Made Pecan Sweet Roll
Carved Roasted Holiday Turkey
Corn Bread-Sausage Stuffing
Whipped Potato & Butternut Squash
Cranberry Sauce
Gravy
Apple Pie
Individual Packets of Cutlery
Call 774.304.1530 to Organize Your Order Today
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Spice Up Your Next Zoom Meeting
Publick House will deliver freshly baked goods to your attendees.
If you can’t be together, you will still feel like you are.
Each box will be individually sent to each attendee’s location via Federal Express or UPS
for the morning of your Zoom meeting, at the cost of the client.
Consider sending a Zoom box to your child’s teacher,
your favorite health care provider or essential worker.
$25.00 Per Person
Publick House Ceramic Mug, Note Pad, Pen, House-Made Pecan Sweet Roll, Scone, Trail Mix Cookie,
Smiley Face Cookie, Fresh Apple, Cocktail Napkin
Call 774.304.1530 to Organize Your Order Today
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Did you know...?
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com to get started.
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Online Opportunities
Are you offering online learning opportunities, webinars, or podcasts? Please add your happenings, online or in-person, indoors or out, to our calendar or email Jack the pertinent info and we will be happy to share in the next CROSSROADS!
WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Seminar Series: Influence: How to Capture The Most Powerful Drug in the Business: Attention
Tuesday Dec 15, 2020, 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Location: Worcester Regional Chamber, George & Sybil Fuller Conference Room, 311 Main Street, Suite 200, Worcester, MA
Fees/Admission: Free for Chamber members, $25 for non-members
Want to be great at public speaking and presentations? Communicating publicly and confidently is intrinsic to the success of almost any role. Presenter: Mark Altman, Founder and Trainer, MindsetGo. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER.
Business After Hours - December 2020 - Virtual
Thursday, December 17, 2020, 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Chamber Members: $10, Non-Chamber Members: $20
Business After Hours is an opportunity for you to network with other Chamber members and guests. Meet new contacts, develop new leads, and exchange ideas. Join us and hundreds of area professionals for a fun, informal networking event! REGISTER HERE.
FREE ONLINE BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY SCORE
SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Since 1964, SCORE has provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs. Click on the program titles for more info and registration.
Understanding Your Revenue Streams
Thurs | Dec 17 | 1:00 pm
Learn how to segment your revenues so you can best manage recurring customer sales funnels and new pandemic-related revenue streams. REGISTER
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Dec 15-17 9:00AM Introduction to QuickBooks Desktop
Dec 15 10:00AM How to Open a Business in MA Legally
Dec 15 12:30PM 7 1/2 Hacks to Keep your Home Network from Being Hacked
Dec 15 2:30PM Info Session on Economic Injury Disaster Loan
Dec 16 10:00AM Marketing 101
Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these and many more.
DEB K HYPNOSIS
2021 is coming and Change is in the air! What would you like to change? Now taking in office clients as well as virtual.
Call 508-579-6314. To join Deb K Hypnosis private Facebook group for support and resources click here:
COGGNO is the Chamber's 24/7 Training platform. Low cost and even free online courses are available for CMS Chamber Members.
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Online Programs with Rita Schiano via Zoom
Embracing Change
Dates and times: Tuesday, 12/15: 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, 12/15: 7:30 p.m.
Investment: $59.95
Accepting and embracing change allows us to adapt and become more flexible, more resilient. And it is our capacity for resilience that enables us to deal with life's difficulties. Change can be transformative, allowing us to see what we are truly capable of doing and being. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
The Healing Power of Forgiveness
Dates and Times: Wednesday, 12/16: 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, 1/19: 6:30 p.m., Saturday, 1/23: 11:00 a.m.
Investment: $59.95
When I was young, I had no idea what forgiveness was truly about. Truth be told, I didn’t have any real clue about true forgiveness until I was in my early 50s, when I began writing the story about my father. Forgiveness is a gift that we give to ourselves. And now, in the LIVE online program, I want to share all that I learned with you. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Resilience: The Key to Retirement Well-Being
Dates and Times: Thursday, 12/17: 3:00 p.m.
Investment: $47
Having a satisfying and healthy retirement is a case study in resilience. This course looks at the six basic life areas and offers resilience-based strategies that make for retirement well-being. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Strategic Goal Mapping*
Dates and Times: Wednesday, 1/6: 6:00 p.m., Saturday, 1/9: 11:00 a.m.
Investment: $69.95
We all have that goal, that one thing we want to do (eat better, lose weight, start a business, fill__in__the__blank); that one thing that shows up on our New Year's Resolution lists year after year after year. Strategic Goal Mapping is a creative and graphic goal-mapping technique utilizing a five-step process. *Habitudes I and Habitudes II are required prior to taking this workshop.
Time Management
Dates and Times: Monday, 1/11: 5:30 p.m., Saturday, 1/16: 11:00 a.m.
Investment: $47
Time management is a big concern. Our work life and home life is filled with more and more duties and obligations and less and less time to get it all done. An effective time management strategy can help you stay on task, accomplish your work, reduce stress, and gain more time for yourself. In this 60-minute LIVE program you will learn practical strategies, tools, and techniques you can put into action immediately! MORE DETAILS AND REGISTRATION
Call Rita 774-230-5670
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OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE
December 18-20, 23 & 27-30, 2020
Times: 3:00 - 8:00 pm; The Village will open for Christmas by Candlelight at 1:00 pm on select nights (see details below); Guests must purchase tickets for specific arrival times - see below for details.
Safely experience a quintessential New England Christmas featuring outdoor decorations and festivities that highlight a homemade holiday. See traditions like knitting a Christmas stocking, wreath, ornament, and tin lantern making, and cooking a holiday meal. From the common to the countryside, warm yourself by the fires, ride a horse-drawn carryall, or stroll through the Christmas Tree Trail and Wish Bridge!
The program will be pretty much the same on all dates, but we also have a couple of special date-specific things happening:
- On December 4-6, we welcome members to partake in our annual Members’ Shopping Nights. Learn more here.
- On the weekend of December 18-20, we will be firing our 24-foot kiln for the second time this year!
Before purchasing your tickets and coming to Christmas by Candlelight, please review our safety and ticketing policies here!
Seasonal programming is generously sponsored by partner and longtime supporter Country Bank.
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Christmas at Hitchcock Academy
The December 12 and 13 weekend kicked off Hitchcock Academy’s long list of Christmas festivities featuring lights, decorated trees, Christmas carols, crafts, photo opportunities, cookies, and cocoa. From 3 to 7 pm on Saturday the 12th, and from 1 to 5 pm on Sunday the 13th, thanks to the sponsorship of Pool Water by R.D. Hitchcock of Charlton (A long lost relative of founder Samuel Austin Hitchcock?) patrons enjoyed Santa reading 'Twas The Night Before Christmas and musical performances outdoors from Hitchcock’s second floor balcony.
According to Executive Director, Cindy Skowyra the goal of all the activities is to spread cheer while following COVID guidelines. “The idea,” she said, “was to come up with ways to share the season; to make memories, and still keep within protocols.” To that end, Skowyra and her staff of elves plan to take full advantage of trees and greens donated by Weston Tree Farm and Lacombe Family Tree Farm to “spruce up” Hitchcock inside and out with an invitation for community members to come an use Hitchcock Academy as a backdrop for their holiday photos
Throughout the season Hitchcock Academy’s front porch will feature a Community Tree. Skowyra, says, “This tree is special. Other than lights, this tree will be decorated with personalized ornaments, which will celebrate the present while honoring special people who have passed.” For $5 patrons can purchase one type of ornament in memory of a loved one. Or they can become a Hitchcock Star by purchasing a star ornament. “The hope,” Skowyra says, “is to have a Community Tree every year; adding new ornaments to the old and turning it into a Memory Tree as well as a Community Tree.”
This year Hitchcock Academy is proud to be a Toys for Tots drop off location. Anyone can drop off an unwrapped toy in the box in Hitchcock’s lobby until December 15. Hitchcock will also have supplies on hand to craft your own ornament and to make a card to send to our troops. “We want to show our gratitude to those who serve,” Skowyra said. Crafting and cardmaking begin on December 9 and continue Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 8 pm and Friday from noon to 6 pm until December 23.
On December 16 at 6:30 PM, artist Anna Ozolins will host a Make Your Own Centerpiece class. Cost of the class is $15. Interested participants should bring their own container but HFA will provide an assortment of seasonal greens. Skowyra also mentioned that people are free to bring any decorative accent(s) they wish to include in their centerpiece.
“There is no question that COVID has affected how we celebrate the holidays this year,” Skowyra said, “but COVID does not mean that we stop celebrating.” She reminds people to wear a mask and notes that activities will be set up to accommodate social distancing. She invites people to visit hitchcockacademy.org for schedule information and a complete list of activities.
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The Feast of The Seven Fishes
Thursday, December 17, 2020 • 6:30pm
The Feast of the Seven Fishes is a Christmas celebration combining the passion of Italian cooking with an authentic and adventurous multi-course menu comprised principally of “frutti di mare” (seafood).
Our traditional December “Feast of the Seven Fishes” banquet will be held on just one night this year: Thursday, December 17. This popular event is always a sell-out so call 508-347-2321 today to make your reservation. The cost per person on this extravagant feast is $68 not including tax or gratuity.*
*Credit card information will be taken at the time of reservation. Cancellations must be made at least three days in advance. Refunds will be made in the form of a Table 3 gift card to be used in one of our restaurants or for a future special event dinner.
SAVE ON TABLE 3 GIFT CARDS ONLINE!
Save time and money: 10% off all gift cards when purchased on-line through December 31. Click here to purchase and enter coupon code T3SANTA at check out and receive your 10% discount. Gift cards are available as a physical gift card (mailed to you) or in electronic form as an e-mail or mobile card. Get yours today and Happy Holidays from Table 3.
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MOBILE ADOPTION UNIT is coming to Klem’s!
On the road to saving more lives! Be sure to stop by and say hi to some of the sweet dogs & cats looking for a new home!
Let adoption help you find your next best friend.
1 Family allowed on board at a time. Masks required.
Home for the Holidays!
Friday, December 18th from 2pm-4pm
Click Here to RSVP on our FB Page!
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What Christmas is all about
Friday, December 18, 2020, 6:30 - 9:00 PM
Join us in our bright cheerful studio, centrally located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, to paint and perhaps enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer while you paint along with our professional guidance here at Brush It Off! Stencils for figures. Price Per Seat: $35.00
2.5 hours to paint this original painting by Brush It Off with Step by Step instruction by one of our professional artists here at Brush It Off LLC. Register on the Studio Calendar.
We are following all the Covid-19 regulations specified for our industry based on restaurants and running air purifiers.
Brush It Off Gift Certificates make fantastic gifts!!
Available online or stop by the studio to purchase.
Chamber Members! Use your Member2 Member Card and save!
Enter CHAMBER1 as the promo code when you sign up for a class.
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Join us for a Traditional Publick House
Christmas Day Dinner
Friday, December 25, 2020
Seatings from 11:00am –5:00pm
Three-Course Plated Dinner
Pricing based on your entrée selection, this does not include taxes or gratuity
Maximum seating time allotted per each reservation
Call Saturday through Wednesday between 10:00am –6:00pm to schedule your reservation (774) 304-1524
MENU
PUBLICK HOUSE SWEET PECAN ROLLS
STARTERS
ENTREES (Choice of One)
Roasted Native Turkey with Gravy $50++
Roasted Prime Rib of Beef $60++
Pan-Roasted Salmon $52++
Vegan Ravioli $42++
DESSERT
CHILDREN’S MENU
BEVERAGES
The Publick House On the Common Sturbridge, MA
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MAKE A RESERVATION TODAY: 508-867-2345
Main Dining Room Hours:
Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Sunday – 12 Noon to 6:00pm
Special COVID 19 Notes
- Reservations are required at this time by calling. If no answer, leave a message and we will return the call.
- Size of a party seated at a table cannot exceed 6 people.
- We are asking people to limit their time at the table to 90 minutes.
- Face masks will be required.
NEED GIFTS THEY'LL LOVE?
PURCHASE GIFT CERTIFICATES TO SALEM CROSS INN ONLINE HERE!
508-867-2345
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Stay vigilant! Wear a mask or face covering in public to slow the spread of COVID-19 and help keep MASSACHUSETTS headed in the right direction. |
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Executive Committee
Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope
Leila Hurt, 1st Vice Chair
Country Bank
Laurie Cashman, Immediate Past Chair
Yellow Iris Farm
Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
Board of Directors
Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group
Kevin Berube
North Brookfield Savings Bank
Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank
Nicole Courtemanche
Connectivity Point
Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union
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Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp
Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
Les Gardner
Les Gardner Photography
Nathan Hardt
Old Sturbridge Village
Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital
Rich Suitum
Exsel Advertising Group
Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Company
James Donahue
Old Sturbridge Village
Honorary Board Member
Counsel
Padgett Berthiaume
Berthiaume & Berthiaume
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46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
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Alexandra McNitt
Executive Director
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Jack Starkey
Communications & Media
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