Welcome to August & Crossroads News!
The new Chamber and tourism websites are now LIVE! Learn more in the article below about these new sites, their features and expanded functionality. We are looking forward to hitting the links with you at Heritage Country Club for the Chamber's GOLF CLASSIC on August 18. We can't wait to catch up with our Members and friends at our sold out clambake happening this Thursday at The Publick House! There is a lot of summer left and you'll find some great ways to enjoy it in this issue of CROSSROADS.
CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. Thank you for entering your upcoming offerings on our NEW Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: AUGUST 15, 2022.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
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.
To keep everyone safe, we ask that you kindly wear a mask when visiting. Thank you!
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New Chamber & Tourism Websites!
Members, create your profile on the new Chamber website: www.cmschamber.org. Login to the "members only" Info Hub to create your Account (click the Member Login button at the top of the home page to get started). Once you have joined, you will be able access vital resources, advertise your upcoming events, post any Hot Deals you may be offering, register for Chamber events, post Member 2 Member discounts, pay invoices, even create Job Postings to recruit new employees! If your events are tourism related, they will automatically be shared on the NEW tourism website as well: www.sturbridgetownships.com.
We are excited to unveil these improved websites to you and look forward to your feedback!
Thank you for checking them out and adding your content! If you run into technical issues or questions, don't hesitate to drop us an email or call 508-347-2761.
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Chamber of Central Mass South
GOLF CLASSIC 2022
August 18, 2022
Heritage Country Club, Charlton
To Benefit the Chamber Charities & Scholarship Fund
The 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 Charities and Scholarship Fund.
See all the details below.
Your Day Includes:
Continental Breakfast
Greens and Cart Fees
Cookout Lunch on the Course
Spectacular Raffle Prizes
Contests
Refreshments available on the course!
Reception and dinner after play.
Scramble format: All players hit from the best lie.
Registration:
$135 for individual, $500 for foursome or dinner only ticket for $40.
Schedule:
8:00am: Registration 9:00am: Shotgun Start 2:30pm: Dinner Reception
Tee Box and Corporate 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.
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
Questions? Call Mike Checkosky at 508-764-0012 or email
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About Our Host
Heritage Country Club is an 18-hole championship golf course located in the rolling hills of Charlton, MA. Considered one of the finest public golf courses in Central Massachusetts, the course is a par 71, measuring 6,710 yards, offering players of all abilities a spectacular golf experience.
Heritage offers private club conditions and amenities at affordable rates.
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Thank you to our 2022 GOLF CLASSIC Sponsor!
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Thank you to our 2022 GOLF CLASSIC Lunch Sponsor!
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From the MA Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development:
Pandemic-Era Flexibilities Extended
On Saturday, July 16, Acting Governor Polito signed legislation extending these flexibilities (including provisions for remote open meetings, remote corporate meetings, and virtual notarization) until March 2023. Please be advised that businesses may resume conducting meetings with these flexibilities in place. The full text of this legislation can be found here. We anticipate it will be codified as Chapter 107 of the Acts of 2022.
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Get Great Exposure for Your Business!
Sponsor an upcoming Chamber event!
Our Promotions Committee is hard at work planning the schedule of Chamber happenings including FUN at FIVE networking events and the Chamber's GOLF CLASSIC. We are actively seeking businesses that would be interested in sponsoring these events.
Our event sponsors are given positive exposure and enthusiastic crowds that are eager to share the good word about your business with their friends, neighbors and business contacts!
If your company would be interested in being a sponsor for these upcoming events, or would like more information about sponsorship, please contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or email alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org.
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FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
508-765-5466
Chamber Members who join the YMCA in SOUTHBRIDGE will receive the first month free! Offer valid at the
Tri-Community Family Branch in Southbridge.
We will also still allow a free pass for those who want to come try first without committing.
Click on the M2M logo and login to the Info Hub on our new website to see this M2M deal and post your own!
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Hitchcock’s Free Summer Concert Series
Takes Over Newly Beautified Town Common
BRIMFIELD – The Brimfield Town Common is hopping on Wednesday evenings this summer with rock ‘n’ roll, tropical rock, classic rock and folk, R&B, and country, courtesy of Hitchcock Academy’s Summer Concert Series running Wednesday evenings through August 24th.
The James Paul Band, a four-piece, high energy, good time rock & roll band kicked off the series on July 20th, making way for The Island Castaways Band, a tropical rock band playing Jimmy Buffett and other summertime fun music on July 27th. The Time Stretchers, with “the best music from the 50s to now” will play on August 3rd, followed by Raider Eddie and the Skeletones, an eight-piece R&B band with a horn section on August 17th. The series will close with Cobblestone Road playing country on August 24th.
At some point the series will include a dedicated of the newly installed town gazebo led by the Brimfield Historical Commission who spearheaded a beautification project which includes a new brick walkway, benches, and tables for gathering.
Food will be available for purchase at each of the concerts. Hitchcock will share updates on participating food trucks on Facebook as each concert approaches.
“We’re excited by how the series has grown, thanks to the support of our growing group of sponsors, and we’re happy to be able to showcase a variety of genres as well,” says Cindy Skowrya, Hitchcock’s Executive Director. “We aim to attract an all ages crowd. 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.”
The concerts will take place on consecutive Wednesdays from 6 to 8pm with the exception of August 10th, which is reserved for Hitchcock’s annual Sip & Stars fundraiser at the Brimfield Winery, where attendees can enjoy live music, a beer and wine tasting offered by Rapscallion Brewery and the winery, and a guided viewing of the night sky during the Perseids Meteor Shower. Tickets are currently on sale on the organization’s website.
Hitchcock’s Summer Concert Series is supported in part by a grant from the Brimfield Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. Additional support comes from Maestro Sponsors Country Bank and First American Insurance, as well as Solo Sponsors The Monson Lions Club, the Shirley Frye Memorial Fund, and Soto Home Care.
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.
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North Brookfield Savings Bank’s Back-to-School Supply Drive Returns!
Backpacks, lunchboxes and supplies will be collected at all branches for local school children in need.
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North Brookfield Savings Bank employees proudly display some of the school supplies donated in 2021
by generous community members, customers and NBSB employees.
Left to right: Cold Spring School Staff Member Andrea Mastalerz and NBSB Branch Experience Manager/AVP, Warren Izyk
North Brookfield, MA - North Brookfield Savings is proud to be a strong supporter of local school systems and the talented and ambitious students who attend them. They believe that each and every child, regardless of their financial circumstances, should have the opportunity to start the school year feeling confident, excited and ready to learn. That is why North Brookfield Savings Bank is kicking off the fifth year of their overwhelmingly popular Back-to-School Supply Drive.
Throughout the entire month of August, North Brookfield Savings Bank will be collecting school supplies and monetary donations at all branch locations in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Palmer and Three Rivers. All donations collected will be delivered to local public schools to be distributed to school children who may not have the needed supplies to start their year. To get things underway, the Bank kicked off the fundraiser by purchasing over $500 in supplies. The branch employees, equipped with brightly patterned backpacks, lunchboxes, pencil cases, notebooks and various other fun supplies, are getting creative with their “Back-to-School” themed tables, in hopes it will encourage those visiting the branch to donate as well.
Some suggested school supply donation items that can be dropped at any North Brookfield Savings Bank branch location are:
New Backpacks (unisex), Lunchboxes, Spiral Notebooks, Pocket Folders, 12” Standard Rulers, #2 Pencils, Pencil Sharpeners,
Pencil Case, Colored Pencils, Washable Markers, Erasers, Glue Sticks, Scissors, Tissues
“North Brookfield Savings Bank is incredibly proud to once again host the Back-to-School Supply Drive. We want all children to begin the school year with the essential supplies they need, in turn giving them the confidence and enthusiasm that allows them to continue to learn successfully,” said Andrea Healy, First Senior Vice President and Director of Human Resources. “It was so amazing to witness the generosity displayed during our first Back to School Supply Drive. Customers, community members and our employees were so giving and really showed how much they care for the children of our schools. We look forward to seeing that same generosity this year!”
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.
ABOUT NORTH BROOKFIELD SAVINGS BANK
North Brookfield Savings Bank is a mutual savings bank with full-service branches in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Palmer, and the Three Rivers Village of Palmer. NBSB offers a wide variety of deposit and loan products for individuals and businesses throughout Central and Western Massachusetts and has been a steadfast supporter of the communities it serves since 1854. All deposits are insured by the FDIC and the Depositors Insurance Fund. North Brookfield Savings Bank was voted Best Bank in Central Massachusetts for 2021 and was named “Community Icon” Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation in 2022. For additional information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
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UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Welcomes Ginny Crosse, NP
and Aleksandra Alwash, FNP to Family Medicine
SOUTHBRIDGE, MA, July 22, 2022 – UMass Memorial Health – Harrington (UMHH) has welcomed Family Nurse Practitioners Ginny Crosse, FNP-C and Aleksandra Alwash, FNP-C to its Family Medicine practice.
Ginny Crosse, FNP-C joins Dr. Gennady Gelman and Shanelle Vance, NP at 198 Charlton Road in Sturbridge providing primary care for all ages.
Crosse completed her Associate’s Degree in Nursing at Anna Maria College, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Southern New Hampshire University and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University, where she received an honors invitation to Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She brings more than 10 years of nursing experience to the practice, having previously worked as a Nurse Care Manager at Harrington Hospital and Fallon Health-Navicare, as well as a Registered Nurse at UMass Medical Center, among other positions.
Aleksandra Alwash, FNP-C has joined Dr. Brenda Geddis- Comrie and Dr. Archana Shah at the UMHH Family Medicine Practice in Charlton, providing primary care for all ages.
Alwash completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Anna Maria College and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner degree at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science University. Prior to joining the Family Medicine practice at UMMH, Alwash served as a Registered Nurse Case Manager at Jewish Home Care in Worcester, MA. She is fluent in both English and Polish and available to see patients at 10 North Main Street in Charlton. To schedule an appointment please call, 508-248 -3015.
UMass Memorial Health – Harrington provides outstanding health care to patients in more than 25 communities throughout south central Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. We are dedicated to our role as the health and wellness partner of the people in our communities and we are relentless in the pursuit of healing. Our comprehensive array of health care services and locations provides our patients with unparalleled access to care. Harrington Hospital in Southbridge provides medical and surgical inpatient care, 24-hour emergency services, inpatient adult psychiatry, an intensive care unit and comprehensive outpatient services. Harrington Hospital at Webster, Harrington at Charlton, Harrington at 169 and Harrington at Sturbridge offer primary care and specialty physicians, diagnostic imaging and more. Harrington Physician Services is our primary care and multi-specialty physician group, UrgentCare Express at Harrington in Oxford serves as a walk-in medical center for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, and the Cancer Center at Harrington in Southbridge allows patients to receive advanced, local oncological and hematology care.
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Second Chance Always Ready to Respond to All Pets in Crisis
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (July 22, 2022) – As news broke of the 4,000 beagles that were rescued from a Virginia medical breeding facility, Second Chance Animal Services’ phones began to ring, and their email and social media were flooded with inquiries. “Are you getting some of the beagles?” “How can I adopt one?” “How can I help?”
Second Chance CEO and Founder, Sheryl Blancato, offers some insight into what’s going on right now and how the public can help. “As a Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) emergency partner, we are often called upon to help with cases like this. Like many other emergency partners across the country, we’ve completed the required paperwork and await word from the HSUS on how we can help these dogs. Right now, the HSUS is making plans to transfer the dogs to shelter partners while also ensuring each dog gets the medical attention that it needs. Second Chance is an emergency shelter and works with many organizations across the country as well as partners in times like this.”
Blancato stated that she will not know when or if the beagles will arrive at Second Chance until the official word comes through. “There are always a lot of offers to help in major cases like this. We are uniquely qualified to help with a dedicated transport facility and a four-hospital veterinary team that can provide a full range of veterinary care for these pups. The dogs have spent their entire lives in the facility and from what we understand, are completely unsocialized. We have a long history and a great deal of experience helping pets like this.” In the past year, Second Chance was called upon by HSUS to help with dogs rescued from the South Korean meat trade. Second Chance worked with these dogs and found them wonderful homes. They also rescued, rehabilitated, and found homes for 88 cats rescued from a single home in the surrounding community.
Blancato said she was disheartened to hear of the conditions these rescued beagles have been forced to endure and she is hopeful that they will each get their ‘second chance.’ While those who have their heart set on adopting one of these beagles will have to remain patient, adopting a pet from or supporting your local shelter is the best way to help these beagles. “When you adopt a pet, you always save two lives – the life of your new pet and the next shelter pet you’ve just made room for,” notes Blancato. “Shelters across the country are struggling as inflation and the looming recession wreak havoc on household budgets, forcing many pet owners to surrender pets. No matter the size, your support will save lives.”
PHOTO: Lily out for a walk and ready to meet her future adopter in April.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded in 1999. Second Chance began as an animal shelter and grew to help more pets in need. Today Second Chance operates Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all. Subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities to ensure access to care for all pets in need. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
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Anyone for golf?
Sign up for the Sturbridge Rotary Club's Charity Golf Classic at Cohasse Country Club in Southbridge.
Great fun, great food, and lots of prizes.
We play Monday, August 22 with a rain date of August 29.
Hope to see you on the course!
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Tasse-Crowley Oil & Propane Issues Matching Gift Challenge
Southbridge/North Brookfield, MA – Tasse-Crowley Oil and Propane has issued a $2500 matching gift challenge for the Campaign to Restore the Carillon Chimes at the Walker Scouting Memorial at Walnut Grove Cemetery in North Brookfield in honor of Crowley Fuel’s Bob LaFlamme. Bob is retiring this year after 34 years of dedicated service to his home heating customers in the Brookfields and surrounding communities and a lifetime of service to Scouting.
According to Tasse/Crowley president and CEO Jeff Tasse, the company will match every donation of $100 or more made after July 15 – a dollar for each of Crowley Fuel’s 100 years in business – to the Walker Memorial Carillon Restoration Fund, up to a total of $2500.
“Crowley Fuel has been a North Brookfield institution for one hundred and two years,” said Tasse, “thirty-plus of them under the capable leadership of Bob LaFlamme. We can think of no better way to recognize Bob’s service to his profession, his community, and to Scouting than to encourage support for this project. This is also a great way to thank the community for its ongoing support of our business.”
Walker Memorial Garden was designed and constructed by Norman Walker to honor the memory of his son, Ronald. Because both father and son shared a love for Scouting and because Scouting had brought them so close to one another, the idea for a “Living Memorial to Scouting” was born. It was dedicated on Memorial Day, May 25, 1970, and for the past 52 years, Scouts from around central Massachusetts have gathered there on the Saturday after Memorial Day to honor Scouters who died during the previous twelve months.
“The original memorial included a beautiful set of carillon chimes that were set into motion every time a visitor passed into the Memorial Garden,” explained Joe Klimavich, chairman of the restoration committee. “Sadly, weather and time took their toll on the carillon and the chimes have been silent for many years.”
“The restoration project involves replacing the carillon chimes equipment and speakers with programmable state of the art technology, encasing the system in a vapor-proof box, restoring the electrical network that powers the system, installing a new activation mechanism, and adding overnight lighting to the memorial and the flagpole,” Klimavich said.
To participate in this matching gift challenge, please mail your check payable to Joseph Klimavich, PO Box 691, Brookfield, MA 01506 and write “Walker Memorial Carillon” on the memo line, or visit the GoFundMe campaign at https://gofund.me/d2f99867. (Please specify if your donation is being made in memory of someone so that may be noted when the list of donors is published.)
For additional information about how to support this project, please contact Klimavich by email at joe.klimavich@gmail.com or by phone/text at (508) 769-8391.
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Cruise for Critters Returns to Westview Farms Creamery to Help Pets in Need
Car Show to Feature Vendor Fair, Kids Carnival and Fall Fun
MONSON, MA (July 26, 2022) – Cruise for Critters returns to Westview Farms Creamery on Saturday, September 24th for the 10th annual car show to benefit pets in need at Second Chance Animal Services. The fundraiser, sponsored by Service Connection of Monson, has been helping Massachusetts pets since 2012. This year’s event will have fall fun for everyone including a vendor fair and the popular Halloween Barktacular kids’ games.
Service Connection owner Al Widlan has been hosting the end-of-season car show for ten years to help pets here in Massachusetts. Widlan encourages car enthusiasts to bring their car out and enjoy a day of full fun. “It’s a great day for a great cause.”
Second Chance volunteers are excited to break out the Halloween Barktacular kids’ games. After Covid forced the nonprofit to cancel both the 2020 and 2021 Halloween Barktacular, a group of volunteers brought a few of the games to last year’s Cruise for Critters. This year, volunteers are planning even more fun for kids.
Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato is grateful to Service Connection and Westview Farms Creamery for their ongoing support for pets in need. “Rising inflation has been forcing pet owners to make difficult decisions. That may mean giving up their pet or, if they can keep their pet, worrying about how they will care for their pet. This fundraiser supports Second Chance programs that can make a difference to pets here in our community.”
The event will be held from 10 am to 3 pm and will also feature all the fall fun that Westview Farms Creamery has to offer including pumpkin picking and a corn maze. Spare Parts will be on hand to provide entertainment and visitors can take a chance to win some great raffle prizes.
Event organizers are appealing to local businesses and vendors to join the fight for pets in need. For more information on sponsorships or to become a vendor, visit secondchanceanimals.org/events/cruise.
The event will be free to spectators and there’s a $20 show car entry fee with every dollar supporting pets in need. In case of bad weather, the rain date is Saturday, October 1.
PHOTO: File Photo from 2021 Cruise for Critters
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The #1 Hispanic Newspaper in MA
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com to get started.
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Learning & Networking Opportunities
You'll also find webinars, online workshops and courses from Worcester Chamber, SCORE and MSBDC. Most are FREE! Got something going on? Please add your happenings, online or in-person, indoors or out, to our calendar or email Jack the pertinent info and we will share in the next CROSSROADS!
WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Young Professionals Night Out at X Golf Worcester
Tuesday Aug 30, 2022, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 287 Grove Street, Worcester
Join the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce's members and community for a networking night out with old and new friends. We will be enjoying free appetizers and a cash bar. X Golf Worcester is a completely new experience that lets golfers play on the world’s top courses, compete in a wide variety of game formats, and of course—enjoy some of the best golf they’ve ever played, in a high-energy indoor entertainment facility. FREE for Worcester Chamber Members, $20 for Non-Members. Must be 21+ to attend. MORE INFO AND REGISTRATION AT THIS LINK
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. Check out these upcoming FREE live webinars.
Learn the Art of Public Speaking to Make Your Business Grow
Aug 16, 23 and 30 from 10:00-11:00am
Marketing yourself and your business to others is important, and you want to leave a good impression! When you speak effectively you’re seen as a more credible business owner and an expert in your field. In this three part series, Susan Bloomstone teaches how to effectively communicate to help you grow as a business owner. Please attend all three sessions in order to fully benefit from this interactive workshop. LEARN MORE & REGISTER
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Aug 1 Basics of Starting Your Business
Aug 9 How to Build a Website in a Day
Aug 10 Nuts and Bolts For Federal Contracting
Aug 18 Basics of Starting Your Business
Aug 24 NAICS, PSC, FSC and Forecasts
Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these sessions and more.
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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August at Hitchcock - Calendar Listings
UPBEAT BARRE with Rebecca Lehman: UpBeat Barre combines moves from ballet, Pilates, yoga and muscular endurance based strength training to provide a low-impact, mind, body and high-energy program. UpBeat classes will tone, tighten and lengthen muscles, provide strength in everyday movement and bring confidence, coordination and an UpBeat attitude after every class. This barre class is all about music. The moves are choreographed to fun UpBeat music which is how this class differs from other barre classes. Mondays 6-7pm. Aug. 8 to 29. $50.
HIGH FITNESS with Rebecca Lehman: The combination of aerobic and anaerobic training, complemented by active recovery tracks, makes this class an extremely effective and efficient form of training. Alternating bouts of high-intensity movement with moderate/active recovery means you avoid plateaus, and constantly challenge your body in a safe and effective way that works for YOU. HIGH Fitness is a ZERO equipment, full body workout that has been shown to improve overall endurance, stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health. More importantly, it yields extremely important mental health benefits. Beyond the workout, HIGH Fitness brings fun, fabulous music, and a community like no other – connection, support, and inclusion reap their own benefits on both the mind and body! Tuesdays 7-8pm. Aug. 9 to 30. $50.
WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE FITNESS with Caroline Degon: A fun full-body workout that is physically and mentally stimulating. This class builds strength, leans and tones the body, all while learning core self-defense movements and techniques. Flexibility, balance, and body awareness will also be gained. All levels are welcome and no prior experience is needed. Women will feel empowered, confident, and healthier. For ages 12 and older. Great class for mother/daughter pairs. Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45pm. Aug. 2 to 23. $60 per person.
GUITAR LESSONS with Reese Crosby: Learn how to play your first song in 2 weeks or less! Acoustic and electric guitar lessons for beginner to advanced levels, ages 7 and up. Learn how to read tablature and get an introduction to music theory. You will also have the opportunity to try the different guitars before you buy one. Wednesdays, Aug. 3 to 31, 5 classes for $125 or Sundays, Aug. 7 to 28, 4 classes for $100. Schedule your 30 minute lesson on Sundays between 12pm and 4pm or Wednesdays between 3:30pm and 8pm. After registration, the instructor will reach out to you to schedule your lesson.
BUDDIES DOG TRAINING with Laurie Merritt: This dog training basics class is for canines of all ages (puppies welcome) and provides positive training methods, good management practices, and problem-solving strategies. The first week is mandatory, and dogs do not attend. Vaccinations must be up-to-date. Bring the household! Children under 14 must be with an adult. Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30pm. Aug. 10 to Sept. 14. $137 per dog.
SIP & STARS: 8th annual stargazing benefit for Hitchcock Free Academy with generous support from Country Bank, B.T.’s Smokehouse, and Rapscallion Brewery. Enjoy a guided tour of the night sky during the peak of the Perseids Meteor Shower. Live music will play until the sun sets when Geoff and Kim McLean from Thames Astronomical Society will share their telescopes and knowledge. Wednesday, Aug. 10 (Rain Date Aug. 11) 6 – 10pm. Brimfield Winery - 35 Main Street (Route 20) Brimfield. Tickets: $25 for 21+ and $10 under 21. Price includes admission, one full pour of beer or wine. SEE THE EVENT POST BELOW FOR MORE INFO.
SUMMER DAYS AT HITCHCOCK: Kids ages 4-7, 8-10, and 11-13 enjoy weekly morning programs focused on arts & crafts and sports & games or afternoon STEAM programs focused on hands-on experiments to help your children think creatively and critically. AM programs run from 9am to 12pm. PM programs run from 1pm to 3:30pm. Extended day offered 8:30am to 4pm. Programs offered through Aug. 12. Starting at $90 per week.
FREE HITCHCOCK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES ON THE COMMON: Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of great music. Wednesdays 6-8pm. Aug. 3, 17, and 24.
FARMERS’ MARKET: Farmers and Artisans selling homemade goods and locally-grown, seasonal plants, produce, meat, baked goods, maple products, ice cream, crafts, soap, and more. Saturdays 9am – 1pm rain or shine in the Hitchcock parking lot.
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.
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Joshua Hyde Public Library
Calendar of Events August 1-16
Sturbridge, August 2022– There are plenty of fun, free events planned at the Joshua Hyde Public Library for the month of August. As always, our events and links can be found on the library website at www.sturbridgelibrary.org. For more information, updates, links, and events, you can also call the Library directly at 508-347-2512, and/or follow the Library on Facebook and Instagram at @sturbridgelibrary.
August 1-31: KINDERGARTEN SCAVENGER HUNT. Library open hours. Children entering kindergarten are invited to participate in a brief Children’s Room scavenger hunt. Upon completion, each student will receive a special prize from the Friends of the Joshua Hyde Public Library. Free.
Continuing through August 10th:
Summer Reading Program: Read Beyond the Beaten Path — Register to participate in the 2022 Summer Reading Program (SRP) at the Joshua Hyde Public Library. Summer Reading is for ALL AGES! You’ll have the chance to win prizes and attend great events! Let’s read about the great outdoors with this year’s theme: Read Beyond the Beaten Path. The Summer Reading Program runs from June 29th to August 10th. For more information, visit the 2022 Summer Reading Program page on the Library website. Registration is Required.
Monday, August 1: BROWN BAG BOOK CLUB @11:15 AM – 12:00 PM. For students entering Grades 4, 5, & 6. We’ll be reading “The One Thing You’d Save” by Linda Sue Park. Read independently, discuss, create, and explore. Bring your own beverage. Pizza provided at this meeting. This is a series of 4 meetings; students should plan on attending the series. Registration is required. Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL.
Monday, August 1: TEENY TINY ART SHOW. LIBRARY OPEN HOURS. All submitted Tiny Artwork will be displayed at the Library from July 27 to August 8. All are welcome to vote online or on paper at the library.
Monday, August 1: Walking Event with FRoST (Friends of Sturbridge Trails) 6:00 – 7:00 PM for a hike of Stafford Turnpike Loop at Heins Farm Conservation Area, approx. 1.2 miles. Difficulty level: easy. The trail crosses fields to the high point on the old Stafford Turnpike. History: This is one of the longest remaining sections of the 19th century turnpikes in Massachusetts. The privately financed Worcester-Stafford turnpike was completed in 1810. The toll road carried commercial traffic. These roads encouraged manufacturing and market farming.
Tuesday, August 2: BOOKS ON TOUR STORY TIME @ 10:45 AM. Join us for stories, songs, Take & Make craft & more! For children of all ages with caregiver. Drop-in. Today’s location: Hyland Orchards (rain or shine) Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL.
Wednesday, August 3: NAFCA and BUILD YOUR OWN TRAIL MIX. A member of the local chapter of the North American Family Camping Association will discuss various aspects of camping. Come to learn about NAFCA and have your camping questions answered! Following the program, children 5 years and over will create their own trail mix. Nuts will be available in factory-sealed packets. Pre-registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL. Free.
Saturday, August 6. BEAD AND STAMP! 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Drop in the Children’s Room to create something unique and fun! For children 3 – 13 years. Some beads may pose a choking hazard. Parental supervision required.
Monday, August 8, CRAFTERNOON FOR KIDS FROM 2-4 PM. Drop-in for a variety of fun crafts to create! Suitable for children ages 4+. Supplies are limited. Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL.
Tuesday, August 9: BOOKS ON TOUR STORY TIME @ 10:45 AM. Join us for stories, songs, Take & Make craft & more! For children of all ages with caregiver. Drop-in. Today’s location: Town Common Gazebo. (rain location: library meeting room) Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL.
Wednesday, August 10 - SUMMER READING PROGRAM FINALE! WILDLIFE ON WHEELS! @ 2:00 PM: The Zoo at Forest Park and Education Center will visit with several animal ambassadors. Learn about these fascinating creatures! Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL. Registration required. Free.
Wednesday, August 10 – TEENY TINY ART SHOW & FRIENDS OF JHPL BOOKMARK CONTEST AWARDS FROM 3:00 – 3:30 PM. Winners of the Teeny Tiny Art Show and the Friends Bookmark contest will be announced. Sturbridge Town Common.
Saturday, August 13 – FRIENDS OF JHPL BOOK SALE FROM 10:00 AM TO 2:00 PM. Join The Friends of Joshua Hyde Public Library as they host their biggest Book Sale of the year. Open to the public. Read the press release below for more info.
Tuesday, August 16 - Origami Storigami by Motoko to visit Sturbridge
The Joshua Hyde Library is pleased to announce a special event on Tuesday, August 16 at 11:00 AM. Parents’ Choice Award winner Motoko regales families with delightful folktales from her native Japan, combined with hands-on origami activities. Motoko’s step-by-step instructions make the ancient Japanese art fun and accessible. Children will learn focus, imagination, and precision while creating pieces of art. Suitable for children ages 5 years and over with caregiver. Pre-registration required; at www.sturbridgelibrary.org.
Free. Sponsored by the Sturbridge Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
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Southbridge Day at Polar Park
The date is Friday, August 5th, and the game starts at 6:45pm.
All tickets bought through this link, fevo.me/towntakeover, will count towards the town takeover standings for each town. In this case, you would buy from the Southbridge Night offer.
$5 from every ticket bought through the link will benefit Our Bright Future, a non-profit from Southbridge!
That night is also a Wepas game, where we honor Latin/Hispanic countries in the pregame, and our team changes from the WooSox to Los Wepas de Worcester!
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Redcoats and Rebels 2022 at Old Sturbridge Village
August 6-7
After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Redcoats and Rebels is BACK at Old Sturbridge Village. See the largest military re-enactment in New England with hundreds of costumed Revolutionary War reenactors, both soldiers and civilians, encamped on the Village Common. Visitors can not only explore our exhibits, galleries, and demonstrations and talk with our costumed historians about everyday life in early New England, but also tour the camps, witness recreated skirmishes and battles, see special presentations, and enjoy fife and drum music. www.osv.org/event/redcoats-and-rebels-2022/
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The Pan-Mass Challenge
August 6-7
The Pan-Mass Challenge is a Massachusetts-based bike-a-thon that raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the country. Always held the first weekend in August, the PMC raises funds for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a world leader in adult and pediatric cancer treatment and research Riders and volunteers often describe Sturbridge as a reunion. The beginning of the original route, it is the place where riders and volunteers congregate, register for the event, share a meal together and participate in the opening ceremonies.
On Saturday morning, volunteers prepare a healthy breakfast for the riders and manage the challenge of getting several thousand riders out of the hotel parking lot by 5:30 am!
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Auditions at Gateway Players
Gateway Players Theatre, Inc. will hold auditions for "Out Of Order", a British farce written by Ray Cooney, on Sunday, Aug 7 at 4pm and Monday, Aug 8 at 6:30pm in Fellowship Hall of Elm St. Congregational Church. Carole Hayes will direct, with Barbara Day as producer and Diane Servant as stage manager. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Performances are scheduled for October 7, 8, 14, 15, 16. Men and women are needed. For more information, call 508-764-4531. This farce is full of fun scenes, improbable comedy, and a window that features famously.
Synopsis: When Richard Willey, a government junior minister, plans to spend the evening with Jane Worthington, one of the opposition's typists, things go disastrously wrong. Wrong rooms, mistaken identity, and a body that keeps moving- all add to the improbable humor.
Gateway Players Theatre started in 1975 and has been a vital part of the community for going on 50 years. The group was located in the Arts Theater Barn on the grounds of the Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, 111 Main St in Southbridge, until the barn developed structural issues. For the last few years, the group has performed in the Fellowship Hall of Elm St. Congregational Church on Park St. This location is spacious and handi-cap accessible and Gateway Players is grateful for the community support.
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2022 Southbridge Concerts on the Common
Sunday Evenings from 6:00-8:00pm
Southbridge Town Common, Mechanic Street, Southbridge
Bring a Chair and Enjoy the Music!
August 7 - Holdin' Back Band sponsored by Southbridge Innovation Center
August 14 - Gracie Day sponsored by Cornerstone Bank
For more information, call Southbridge Recreation: 508-764-6459
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West Brookfield Concerts on the Common
West Brookfield Town Common, Routes 67 & 9
Relax and enjoy the 49th season of live music on the West Brookfield Town Common!
ALL concerts are from 7-9pm on Wednesday evenings. Bring chairs, blankets, picnics!
August 3 - Eddie Forman Orchestra
August 10 - The Midnight Riders
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2022 Sturbridge Summer Concert Series
Thursday Evenings, 6:00-8:00PM
Sturbridge Town Common, Main Street, Route 131
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets!
Escape the Pike welcomes you to accept their Table Top Games Challenge at the Sturbridge Concerts!
Aug 4- Donnelly Road (Classic Rock), Sponsored by Betterment Committee
Aug 11- Music Matters Band (Top Hits), Sponsored by Betterment Committee
Aug 18- Island Castaways (Trop Rock), Sponsored by Savers Bank
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8th Annual Sip & Stars Has Hitchcock
Starry-Eyed About Community Gatherings
A benefit for Hitchcock Free Academy
With generous support from Country Bank, B.T.’s Smokehouse and Rapscallion Brewery
Weds., August 10 (Rain Date - Thurs., August 11) 6 – 10 PM
At the Brimfield Winery - 35 Main Street (Route 20) - Brimfield
BRIMFIELD – Take time to stop and smell the roses, and while you’re at it, stop and watch for meteors, too, as the Perseid Meteor Shower hits its annual summer peak. Hitchcock Academy invites you to do just that at its 8th annual Sip & Stars fundraiser for the nonprofit community center at the Brimfield Winery which offers ample space to spread out and enjoy the beauty of the night sky. With generous support from Country Bank, Rapscallion Brewery, B.T.’s Smokehouse and host Brimfield Winery, the sky is the limit on Wednesday, August 10th (Rain date Thursday, August 11th) from 6 to 10pm. Attendees will enjoy live music until the sun sets, as they then gather for a guided tour of the night sky in the company of friends and other skygazers, while enjoying beer and wine along with BBQ or a packed picnic. The signature summer celebration highlights the community building and life-long learning for which Hitchcock is known, while encouraging us all to slow down and enjoy one of life’s simplest pleasures.
“After two years running the event under strict limitations, we are thrilled to be able to open the event up and enjoy a relaxing evening together - that alone is still something to celebrate,” says Hitchcock Executive Director Cindy Skowrya.
Admission includes a full pour of Brimfield Winery’s own wine or Rapscallion beer and a guided tour of the night sky by Geoff and Kim McClean, Lead Night Sky Rangers with The Last Green Valley. The annual Perseid Meteor shower has been known to boast 50 to 100 meteors per hour. In the early hours before sunset, crowds can enjoy live music. BT’s Smokehouse food truck will be on site offering bbq options for purchase. While food may be brought in, no outside alcoholic beverages are allowed.
Tickets are $25 for patrons 21 and over; under 21 tickets are $10 and are available at www.hitchcockacademy.org. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs, bug spray and flashlights.
In the case of overcast skies or rain interruption, an astronomy demonstration will take place under the covered pavilion.
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.
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August Networking at Oakholm Brewery
Woman In Business, Inc.
Wednesday, August 10, 2022, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Join us for an evening of networking and appetizers at Oakholm Brewery, 80 Lake Road, Brookfield.
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Summer Book Sale @ Joshua Hyde Public Library
Sturbridge, August 2022 — August 13
The Friends of Joshua Hyde Public Library will hold their largest book sale of the year on Saturday, August 13th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Selections from all genres will be available. Find a book for yourself, a friend, your children or grandchildren; there’s something for everyone! All proceeds support the library by covering the cost of items not included in the annual budget. These include most children’s programs, special programs for teens and adults, museum passes, along with supplies and equipment. Stop by and support your library!
We welcome volunteers to help prepare for the sales and on the day of the sales. Please ask a librarian for more information on volunteering!
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Southern Crawfish/Shrimp Boil
Saturday, August 13, 2022, 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Brimfield Winery
Southern Crawfish/Shrimp Boil! With special New Orleans jazz & more by the Catnip Junkies!
Brimfield Winery is going down South! Tickets are $35 until August 7th. Going to $40 Sunday, August 8th!
We are joining our friends at Off the Hook Roadside Eatery to bring you an experience to remember. With a ticket, you will enjoy a Crawfish boil dinner including portions of crawfish, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and fresh corn on the cob! Dinner will be served at 2:00pm.
The AFTER DINNER PARTY will be rocking with our guest band Catnip Junkies – Catnip Junkies is a bunch of cool cats who really know how to swing. From NOLA jazz and classic swing all the way to jazzed up modern pop songs, Catnip Junkies plays it all!
Grab your friends and get ready for some GREAT music Lets get this party started! Hurry, get your tickets before they are gone!!
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SUMMER HOURS:
Thursday: 4-8, Friday: 4-8, Saturday: 4-8, Sunday: Noon-5
We are currently looking to fill Server, Bartender, Bussers & Dishwasher positions.
508-867-2345
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Looking for more local events? Check out our Facebook Events page for even more from our neighbors and friends! Click here to visit!
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Executive Committee
Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope
Cynthia Saucier, 1st Vice Chair
Country Bank
Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
Board of Directors
Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group
Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank
Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union
Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp
Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
Dan Friel
Old Sturbridge Village
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Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
Christina Hadis-Blackwell
The Center of Hope
Tom Henry
North Brookfield Savings Bank
Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital
Anthony Marini
BankHometown
Trevor Nielsen
Edward Jones
Rita Schiano
Live a Flourishing Life
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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