Welcome to mid-July and Crossroads Events!

This Saturday, July 20, the Chamber and its partners present the Drivin' It Ho(l)me For Health & Education Car Show at Oakholm Brewing Company. Check out an array of classic and vintage cars, enjoy craft brews, specialty food trucks, raffles and music by The Valley’s Classic Hits at a beautiful venue! The event is presented by the Chamber, Harrington Auxiliary and Oakholm Brewing Company with gratitude to our awesome sponsors, Lamoureux Ford and PickleballU. We would also like to sincerely thank our amazing volunteers who bravely stepped up to attend our Information Booth at the July Brimfield Shows last week. You are awesome and we greatly appreciated your help!

CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news and events with around 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. If you have events to share in CROSSROADS, you can add them to our Events calendar anytime 24/7. Keep our readers informed of your latest news by emailing your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: AUGUST 1, 2024

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

The office is OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-347-2761 to be sure we are here.

CMS CHAMBER OFFICE, 1A RIVER ROAD, STURBRIDGE

9:00am to 2:00pm

CMS CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2024

Heritage Country Club, Charlton, MA

CMS Chamber’s GOLF CLASSIC is a day of fun and friendly competition on the links at our local 18 hole championship golf course, Heritage Country Club in Charlton. Presented in a scramble format, the event features a continental breakfast, contests and spectacular raffle prizes, a cookout lunch and refreshments on the course, and a reception and dinner after play. We hope you will come and spend a fun day on the links with us this year! Your participation supports the Chamber’s Charities and Scholarship Fund.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

8:00 am  Registration

9:00 am  Shot Gun Start

2:30 pm  Dinner Reception

YOUR DAY INCLUDES:

•Continental breakfast

•Greens and cart fees

  Heritage Country Club in Charlton, MA

•Cookout lunch on the course

•Spectacular raffle prizes!

•Contests

•Refreshments on the course

•Reception and dinner after play

SCRAMBLE FORMAT:

All players hit from the best lie

COST:

Foursome: $540, Individual: $140, Dinner Only: $40

THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR!

THANK YOU TO OUR LUNCH SPONSOR!

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE.

$100 Tee Box Sponsor: Includes a sign with your business name and logo at the tee box or green.

$750 Corporate Sponsor: Includes 1 Foursome, Tee Box Sponsor, 4 additional meal tickets for guests, featured in all promotional materials at event.

DOWNLOAD THE GOLF CLASSIC BROCHURE

CONTACT MICHAEL CHECKOSKY FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Phone: 508-764-0012 Fax: 508-765-1187

Make all checks payable to: CMS Chamber of Commerce.

Mail your check with the brochure's reservation form to:

Cornerstone Bank

c/o Mike Checkosky

253-257 Main Street

Southbridge, MA 01550

Arrive by 6:15pm for the singing of the National Anthem by Sarah Clarke, 

Director of BSA and Compliance at Southbridge Credit Union!

Win great prizes at a raffle to be held during the 7th inning stretch!

THANK YOU TO OUR NIGHT WITH THE WOOSOX SPONSOR

Southbridge Credit Union has been a trusted part of your neighborhood since 1938. SCU was created by local people and is led by local people. We are a credit union, not a bank. That means that our members are our top priority, and ensuring your financial health will always be our focus. We offer a full range of products and services to support you and your financial goals. As a trusted credit union, and a not-for-profit organization, we’re able to pass on more savings and better rates to our members, while also supporting the community where we all live and work.

At SCU, we are volunteers. We are coaches. We are friends. We are neighbors. We are community. We’ve got you.

Are you using your Member2Member Discount Card? Take advantage of valuable discounts offered by our Members for our Members while you KEEP IT LOCAL! DOWNLOAD AND PRINT this one-page PDF flyer for details of this program which is a benefit of Chamber Membership you can pass on to all your co-workers and employees. Feel free to contact us if you have questions, need help adding your offer to the program, or need more M2M Cards.

Venture Community Services Announces Merger with Life-Skills, Inc.

Combined Agency Will Serve 600, Employ Over 1,000, and Have a $66 Million Budget

Mike Hyland, the president and CEO of Venture Community Services

STURBRIDGE, Mass. – Venture Community Services, one of the Commonwealth’s leading providers of innovative human services, has announced a merger with fellow provider Life-Skills, Inc. of Webster. The merger, effective July 1, 2024, marks a strategic union with Venture continuing as the sole entity led by Mike Hyland as President & CEO of the combined organization. Life-Skills CEO Tom Amick will be retiring after 38 years of dedicated leadership.

Venture and Life-Skills have a long-standing relationship built on shared goals, values, and mission to provide high-quality support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The combined organization will employ over 1,000 people, support close to 600 people with disabilities statewide, and have an annual operating budget of $66 million.

“This merger represents an exciting time for Venture and Life-Skills,” said Hyland. “It allows us to grow together in forming an elite human services agency that is innovative, impactful, and successful.”

The decision to merge allows Venture to intentionally shape the future and adapt to trends of agency consolidation within the state. Joining forces also enables the combined organization to have a stronger voice with funders and ensure sustainability. Venture’s strategic agenda post-merger prioritizes the enhancement of existing programs, development of new initiatives and the cultivation of a robust workforce prepared to meet evolving client needs.

“Our board is so excited about the opportunity to create a single organization that is even stronger than its individual parts and will continue to provide consistently high levels of service to individuals in need,” said Donna Peters, President of Venture’s Board of Directors.

About Venture Community Services

Venture Community Services is committed to providing compassionate, person-centered services to nearly 600 people with developmental disabilities and autism across Massachusetts. From its beginnings with two small group homes, Venture has evolved into one of the states’ premier human service providers with over 1,000 employees. Venture encourages independence through a continuum of support, which includes community residential services, day programs, supported employment, transportation, autism supports and shared living. Next year, the agency will celebrate its 50th anniversary of providing support to those in need.

Country Bank Announces Retirement of Longtime President and CEO Paul Scully

On July 1, 2024, CEO Paul Scully announced his retirement after a distinguished career of twenty-eight years at Country Bank and forty-eight years in the financial services industry. His retirement will be effective on July 31st. Scully, who started his banking career as a part-time teller while attending Bentley University, previously served as Senior Vice President of Country Bank was appointed President in 2004 and later assumed position of Chief Executive Officer in 2005.

"Throughout my career, I've been guided by the belief that success is not just about growth in numbers but about the positive impact we make in the lives of our team members, customers and communities. It's been an incredible journey and I'm immensely proud of what we've achieved together. As I retire, I leave with a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Country Bank’s CEO for the past twenty years and with the utmost respect of my successor, Mary McGovern and the entire Country Bank team to continue the Bank’s legacy of excellence," said Scully.

Mary McGovern, appointed President by the Bank's Board of Trustees on April 1, will assume CEO, effective August 1. McGovern, who has been with the Bank since 2011, previously served as EVP and CFO before assuming the role of COO in 2023. With her extensive experience in the financial services industry spanning over three decades, McGovern brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new position.

"I am honored to have worked alongside Paul for the past thirteen years," said McGovern. "As I assume the organization's leadership, I am dedicated to the Bank's continued growth and supporting our customers, community, and team members. The Bank is committed to providing best-in-class customer service, the latest banking services, safety and security, and ensuring Country Bank remains a trusted financial institution in our communities."

Country Bank's Board of Trustees and its team members are deeply grateful to Paul for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication throughout his tenure. His visionary guidance has positioned the Bank for continued success and growth. As the Bank embarks on this new chapter, it looks forward to the leadership of Mary McGovern, who will undoubtedly build upon Scully's legacy and drive Country Bank to new heights.

About Country Bank

Country Bank is a full-service $1.8B 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. With a commitment to personalized service and community involvement, Country Bank offers individuals, businesses, and municipalities a comprehensive range of banking products and services. 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. 

Hitchcock’s Free Summer Concert Series Rocks the Brimfield Town Common

Wednesdays through August 21

BRIMFIELD – The Brimfield Town Common will be hopping on Wednesday evenings this summer with rock ‘n’ roll, tropical rock, R&B, and country, with the addition of bluegrass this year courtesy of Hitchcock Academy’s Summer Concert Series running Wednesday evenings through August 21st.

The series kicks off on July 17th with CobbleStone Road. Comprised of talented musicians with lots of experience who’ve played with some of the best, CobbleStone Road blends modern country with rock & blues to get your toes tapping and audiences dancing. BT’s Smokehouse will be the evening’s food vendor.

On July 24th, playing the Hitchcock series for the first time, The Pioneer Valley Flamethrowers will bring bluegrass to the common. The Flamethrowers are a collective of New England acoustic musicians whose styles range from traditional, to not-so-traditional, to completely-not-traditional bluegrass, new-acoustic genres, and acoustic blues. Rooster's Roaming Cantina will be on site with their food truck.

July 31st marks the return of the New England Digital Accordion Orchestra, offering orchestral performances of Big Band, Broadway, Ethnic, Country, and Rock. Conducted by Sam Falcetti of Falcetti Music, this unique 20 piece orchestra is the nation’s only digital accordion orchestra and has a style all their own. Along with vocal performances, you will hear horn & wind sections, strings, guitars, and of course the accordion in beautifully orchestrated arrangements. Flippin' the Bird BBQ will be the food vendor.

August 7th will see the return of Hard Knox, a country band widely known for its unique song selection and unmistakable renditions of those often slightly forgotten favorites joined by food vendor Rooster's Roaming Cantina.

Time Stretchers will return on August 14th with the best tunes from the 50s to now, joined by Flippin' the Bird BBQ, and the series will close on August 21st with The Island Castaways Band,​ New England's Favorite Tropical Rock Band in the music style made famous by Jimmy Buffett. Tony's Happy Valley Pizza will be selling slices from their truck.

“We’re happy to be bringing the series back for another summer,” says Cindy Skowyra, Hitchcock’s Executive Director. “I love watching the kids dancing and running, and seeing families, friends, and neighbors gathering on their chairs and blankets, as the community shares in the fun together. All are welcome, and I love seeing us draw attendees from surrounding towns to enjoy these evenings.”

Hitchcock’s Summer Concert Series is made possible with a sponsorship from Country Bank, in addition to funding from the Brimfield Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Hitchcock Academy is a community center located at 2 Brookfield Road in Brimfield serving the community with educational, recreational, and cultural programming. More information can be found at www.hitchcockacademy.org.

Job Posting: Museum Interpreter – Households (Full Time)

Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) is seeking a full-time interpreter to work and study under the leadership of OSV’s household program. As a living history site dedicated to the history of early 19th century rural New England, a major component of OSV’s mission is its commitment to demonstrating New England’s households. This position will serve as frontline staff as a member of the Households program. This role contributes daily interpretation of various trades and skills, including but not limited to: historical foodways, domestic crafts, needle arts, textile production, and domestic management. This role will contribute to Old Sturbridge Village’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. VIEW THE DETAILS OF THIS JOB POSTING on the Chamber website including essential duties, qualifications, skills and abilities, and how to apply.

Old Sturbridge Village, the largest outdoor history museum in the Northeast, depicts a rural New England town of the 1830s. Step inside more than 40 original buildings, and explore homes, meetinghouses, a district school, country store, bank, working farm, three water-powered mills, and trade shops – all situated on more than 200 scenic acres. Talk with authentically costumed historians and see heritage breed farm animals. Discover the endless ways to immerse yourself in the Village. Old Sturbridge Village, a museum and learning resource of New England life, invites each visitor to find meaning, pleasure, relevance, and inspiration through the exploration of history.

Old Sturbridge Village is committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. We are passionate about developing and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and accessible working and learning environment for all visitors, staff and OSV community members. We believe every member on our team enriches our diversity by exposing us to different ways of understanding and engaging the world around us.

Dexter Factory Outlet | 44 River Street | Southbridge, MA 01550 | Tel: 800-343-6042

Friends and Family Weekday Discount at Old Sturbridge Village

July 10 - August 2, 2024 | Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays

Times: 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Cost: From July 10 - August 2, 2024 on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, groups of 6 or more receive 20% off of each ticket when all 6 tickets are purchased in one transaction at one time online or in-person.

More to see, more to do, and more savings! Gather your friends and family for a trip to Old Sturbridge Village and save! For a limited time this summer, groups of six or more can visit during the week and save 20% off standard full price daytime admission.

LEARN MORE AND GET TICKETS HERE.

Wednesday Night Trivia at Rapscallion

Rapscallion has a NEW weekly trivia night! Join us every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:00pm for a round of trivia hosted by

Kevin Magnani, a Wachusett Regional teacher who makes trivia so FUN. No stress, all skill levels welcome!

Join in at Rapscallion Pub, 3 Arnold Road, Sturbridge.

The origins of Bolognese sauce, known as “ragù alla bolognese” in Italian, trace back to the late 18th century. It hails from the town of Bologna, Italy. The earliest documented recipe for a meat sauce served with pasta comes from late 18th-century Imola. The original version included lean veal filet, pancetta, butter, onion, and carrot, without tomatoes.

In the United States, “spaghetti bolognese” has become a popular dish, even though in Italy, ragù alla bolognese is traditionally paired with flat pasta like tagliatelle.

Join us at Avellino to experience how Chef Rico prepares this ubiquitous Italian staple. Chef Rico will also be offering an assortment of side dishes that pay tribute to the Emilia-Romagna region where Bolognese traces its culinary roots. This event is $52 per person, tax and gratuity are not included. Wine, beer, and cocktails are available from our bar at an extra cost.

Reservations require pre-payment for the event. Reservations and payments are non-refundable. Please visit Avellino’s webpage or scan the QR code to register for this month's Cooking with Rico. https://www.exploretock.com/the-duck-avellino/

Novena to St. Anne

Thursday, July 18, 2024 - Friday, July 26, 2024

All are invited to the 137th Novena to St. Anne. A variety of speakers and music ministries will participate during the nine day Novena. (African, Hispanic, Vietnamese and others). Beginning Thursday, July 18, 2024 through Friday, July 26, 2024. See the detailed schedule here. The gift shop will be open extended hours.

18th Annual “Yes You Can” Hoyt Family Memorial Golf Tournament

Event Highlights

Date: Saturday, July 20, 2024

Time: 7:30 AM Shotgun Start

Location: Pine Ridge Country Club, N. Oxford, MA

We are eager to bring together our cherished golfing community for this significant event, continuing a tradition that not only celebrates the remarkable legacy of the Hoyt Family but also raises awareness and support for the Center of Hope. The tournament promises a day filled with challenging play, exceptional hospitality, and the company of fellow golf enthusiasts who share a passion for making a difference.

Last year, as you might recall, spots for the tournament filled up quicker than a tee shot on a calm morning! We encourage you to secure your registration as early as possible to ensure your place in the lineup. Whether you're aiming to defend your title, beat your personal best, or simply enjoy a day out on the stunning Pine Ridge course, the “Yes You Can” Hoyt Family Memorial Golf Tournament is the perfect opportunity to do so.

To Register: Please visit our registration page to secure your spot https://thecenterofhope.org/golf-tournament-2/. Remember, space is limited, and spots will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

We're counting down the days until we can welcome you at the Pine Ridge Country Club. Prepare to tee off for a cause that matters and enjoy a day filled with fun, friendship, and the unforgettable spirit of competition. If you have any questions or require further information, feel free to reach out us directly at 508-764-4085 or at info@thecenterofhope.org.

Old Sturbridge Village Collections Storage Tour

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Tours begin at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Members: $5 per person | Non-Members: $10 per person plus standard daytime admission

Join us for a behind-the-scenes tour of our collections storage building where we house most of our more than 40,000 artifacts made or used by rural New Englanders between 1790 and 1840. Meet at the Visitor Center and walk to our storage building with a Village curator.

Due to space constraints, pre-registration is required. 

Learn more and register for a tour here: www.osv.org/event/collections-storage-tour/

JULY 25 LOBSTER FEAST IS SOLD OUT!

RESERVE NOW FOR AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER FEASTS!

Tickets available online or by calling 508-867-2345

www.salemcrossinn.com/events/dining-events/summer-dinner-series/

HOURS OF OPERATION

Thursday, Friday, & Saturday: 4pm - 8pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm

Call 508-867-2345 for reservations.

Visit the Facebook page for the latest updates.

www.salemcrossinn.com

The Pan Mass Challenge

On August 3 & 4, 2024, the PMC community will come together from all corners of the world with one mission: raise funds for cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Together, we will get closer by the mile to a world without cancer. This is what a bike is meant to do. Cheer on the riders from the Sturbridge start line!

Get involved, make a donation, learn more online at www.pmc.org

Redcoats & Rebels 2024 at OSV

Redcoats & Rebels returns on August 3rd and 4th! See the largest military re-enactment in New England with hundreds of costumed Revolutionary War re-enactors, both soldiers and civilians, encamped on the Village Common. Visitors can explore our exhibits and galleries, watch demonstrations, and talk with our costumed historians about everyday life in early New England. In addition, visitors can tour the camps, witness recreated skirmishes and battles, see special presentations, chat with guest craftspeople, and enjoy fife and drum music. Due to the popularity of this program, pre-registration is highly recommended. 

See the latest info on this program and get tickets: www.osv.org/event/redcoats-rebels/

Redcoats & Rebels is SPONSORED BY: Dexter-Russell

Looking for Summer Concerts on the Commons?

Click here to check our calendar for offerings in these towns:

Southbridge, Sturbridge, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Brimfield (Hitchcock Academy) and Charlton (The Overlook)

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