Welcome to 2025 and Crossroads News!

We hope your new year is off to a great start! You're invited to join the Chamber and our guests on February 27th for Medium Night with Gary McKinstry at The Barn at Wight Farm with thanks to our sponsor, Steve’s Collision Center. Only 100 seats will be sold. See the details below and get your tickets now. Like last year’s Medium Night, this event is very likely to sell out! You’ll find more fun and illuminating local events, plus the latest news items from our Members in this issue. We look forward to working with you in 2025!

CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news and events with around 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. We love sharing your events with our readers, take a minute to add them to our Events calendar anytime 24/7. Keep our readers informed of your latest news and offerings by emailing your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: JANUARY 15, 2025

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

The office will be CLOSED today, Friday, January 3rd for staff vacation.

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

MEDIUM NIGHT WITH GARY MCKINSTRY

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2025 FROM 7:00-9:00PM

THE BARN AT WIGHT FARM, 420 MAIN STREET, STURBRIDGE

Internationally known Psychic Medium Entertainer, Gary McKinstry, will share his gift to connect with the spirit world and bring intuitive messages to our guests at the Chamber’s Medium Night. Gary McKinstry has worked as a psychic medium for over 30 years, and he is dedicated to helping people in all walks of life and death. Gary will deliver your messages to those who have crossed over with style.

To learn more about Gary and his work visit www.garymckinstry.com.

Tickets are $60 for CMS Chamber members and their employees, or $65 for non-Members. Cash bar.

This intimate and enlightening evening with Gary is limited to 100 attendees, so get your tickets now! This event will sell out.

Questions? For tickets and info give the Chamber a call at 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org.

With Gratitude to our Sponsor: Steve’s Collision Center, Inc.

Dedicated to Perfection - Complete satisfaction is our #1 priority at Steve’s Collision Center, Inc. We understand being in an accident is a significant inconvenience, and we are here to help. We work with all insurance companies, but most importantly, we work for you as our customer. Our main goal is to exceed your expectations. That’s what it takes to be the best!

Steve’s Collision Center

210 Charlton Road, Route 20, Sturbridge, MA

508-347-9116

https://www.stevescollision.com/

Welcome, New Members!

The Flight Deck Southbridge

220 Airport Access Rd , Southbridge , MA , 01550

(508) 909-6043

www.theflightdecksouthbridge.com

NOW OPEN!

The Flight Deck is an aviation-themed diner, focused on providing a pilot-friendly experience

and giving local families a great place to eat, grab an ice cream, and plane-watch!

HOLIDAY FUN AT FIVE!

We could not have asked for a warmer welcome than the one we received at The Publick House Historic Inn on the evening of Thursday, December 12th for our annual holiday get-together. The Chamber welcomed around 100 guests and enjoyed a Charlie Brown Christmas-themed evening in historic and beautifully decorated Paige Hall. The Stuffed Stocking Silent Auction raised $1998, a portion of which was used to purchase gift cards for local teenagers in need. Thank you to all of you who contributed amazing items to bid on, all the bidders and auction winners! Your kindness and generosity made the holidays even brighter for many local teens. We are also truly grateful to the great folks at Cornerstone Bank for being our awesome Holiday Fun at Five sponsor!

Thank you to all who joined in the celebration!

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.

North Brookfield Savings Bank’s Successful Food and Toy Drives During Season of Giving  

NBSB Employee Jessica Shimansky featured outside of the North Brookfield Branch assisting Christie Driscol from St. Joseph’s Parish with non-perishable food and monetary donations from NBSB’s Annual Food Drive Collection.

NBSB Employee Joseph Ribeiro featured inside of the West Brookfield Branch assisting the West Brookfield Police Department with toy and monetary donations from NBSB’s Annual Toy Drive Collection.

North Brookfield, MA – In the spirit of Season of Giving, North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) is thrilled to announce the success of its annual Food and Toy Drive. These initiatives reflect the Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities it serves and making the holidays brighter for those in need. Due to the overwhelming generosity of community members, employees and neighbors of NBSB, the Food and Toy Drive made an impact in each of the Bank’s communities.

During the NBSB annual Food Drive, held from October 1st through October 25th, the Bank’s communities came together to donate 693 non-perishable food items and over $1,000 in monetary donations. NBSB contributed an additional $3,000 to further support local food pantries. These generous donations have had a profound impact this season of giving, providing crucial assistance to individuals facing food insecurity.

The generosity from their communities continued through the annual Toy Drive, which ran from November 1st through November 29th. Community members, employees and neighbors stepped up to the plate again, where NBSB was able to collect 388 toys for children in need, alongside $1,432 in monetary donations. NBSB contributed an additional $1,500 to support those who need it the most and bring joy to children in the communities it serves this holiday season.

“Community is at the heart of everything that we do, and the success of this year’s Food and Toy Drives is a testament to the compassion and generosity of our customers, employees and neighbors,” said Audrey Moulton, Marketing Manager at North Brookfield Savings Bank. “We are proud to hold our annual Food and Toy Drives, making a positive impact for those in need during the Season of Giving.”

The Bank proudly partnered with the East Brookfield Baptist Church Food Pantry, Sharing Cupboard Food Pantry - First Congregational Church, St. Joseph's Parish Food Pantry, First Congregational Church of North Brookfield, Trinity Episcopal Church - Jubilee Cupboard, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Food Pantry and Palmer Food Share, Inc. through their Food Drive.

During the annual Toy Drive, NBSB proudly partnered with the North Brookfield Police Association’s Toys for Joy Program, East Brookfield Toys for Joy Program, West Brookfield Police Association Holiday Toy Program, Ware Police Department “Christmas for Kids” Program, Belchertown Firefighters Association Adopt-a-Family Program and Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program to offer support to the communities they serve through the Toy Drive.

To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank’s Community giving efforts and 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, 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. For additional information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.

Second Chance Marks 85,000th Spay/Neuter Surgery

WORCESTER, MA (December 17, 2024) Second Chance Animal Services, a leader in affordable veterinary care, is thrilled to announce the completion of its 85,000th spay/neuter surgery. This milestone is a reflection of the organization’s dedication to reducing pet overpopulation and improving the lives of pets in need and comes as the year continues to break records in both the number of surgeries performed and the demand for its services.

One-year-old Mia had the honor of being the 85,000th patient when she received her spay surgery at Second Chance’s Worcester Community Veterinary Hospital.

"Reaching 85,000 spay/neuter surgeries is a tremendous accomplishment for our team and a testament to our ongoing commitment to the well-being of pets," said Sheryl Blancato, CEO and founder of Second Chance. "Spaying and neutering not only help prevent unwanted litters but also provide significant health benefits. By reducing the risk of reproductive cancers and infections, these surgeries contribute to longer, healthier lives for pets."

In response to increasing demand, Second Chance recently expanded its spay/neuter surgery schedule at its Springfield location. The nonprofit’s low-cost spay/neuter program, launched in 2005, continues to address the root causes of pet homelessness and provides vital services to underserved communities. With hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester, Second Chance performs hundreds of spay/neuter surgeries each month. Subsidized rates are available to ensure that no pet is left behind due to financial barriers.

"As we approach the end of what has already been a record-breaking year, we reflect on the tremendous support from our team and community," Blancato added. "We remain committed to our mission of making a lasting difference in the lives of pets and their families, and we look forward to continuing this important work well into the future."

For more information about Second Chance's low-cost spay/neuter programs, visit www.secondchanceanimals.org/s-n.

PHOTO: One-year-old Mia 

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. Last year Second Chance helped over 49,000 pets live better lives 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.

Follow Second Chance on Facebook:  facebook.com/secondchanceanimals

Follow Second Chance on Instagram: @secondchanceas/

Follow Second Chance on Twitter:  @secondchanceas

Pages and Packs Pantry at the Joshua Hyde Public Library is now open

The Pages and Packs Pantry is a joint initiative by the Joshua Hyde Public Library (JHPL) and the Tantasqua/Union 61 School District, coming together to support individuals and families across Sturbridge and the surrounding school communities. 

Beginning Monday, December 30, 2024, this program will provide backpacks filled with nutritious food and inspiring books to anyone in need. Whether you’re seeking support or simply looking for resources, visit the Joshua Hyde Public Library (306 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA) during library hours to discreetly select or fill a pack that works for you.

Our community thrives when we care for one another, and there are many ways to help! Donations of non-perishable food items (gluten and peanut-free are welcome) and monetary contributions are greatly appreciated. Your generous donations will help provide nutritious meals and snacks for those facing food insecurity, especially students and their families who need access to food outside of school hours. Every contribution—whether food, funds, or volunteer hours—makes a difference in creating a stronger, more resilient community where everyone can thrive. 

For any inquiries please email: PagesandPacks@gmail.com or call the Office of Student Support at (508) 347-3560.

Ribbet Cleared for Adoption After Remarkable Recovery

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (December 18, 2024) – Ribbet, the resilient Labrador Retriever puppy whose heartbreaking story captured hearts nationwide, has reached an incredible milestone in his recovery. Following his latest X-rays, Second Chance Animal Services’ veterinary team has confirmed that Ribbet’s skull fracture has healed properly, the swelling has resolved, and he is thriving. With this clean bill of health, Ribbet has officially been cleared for adoption!

Ribbet’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. After suffering life-threatening injuries that required emergency surgery to remove both eyes, he has made a stunning recovery in the loving care of his foster family, who has now become his forever family. His new family has been teaching him how to play fetch with a jingle ball, and Ribbet’s supporters are celebrating his transformation with a joyful video showing him in action.

“This moment is a testament to the resilience of animals and the incredible power of community support,” said Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services. “Ribbet has shown us all that, with the right care and love, even the most challenging odds can be overcome.”

Second Chance is sharing Ribbet’s story not only to celebrate his triumph but to remind pet owners about the importance of responsible rehoming and Second Chance’s lifetime support policy for adopted pets.

The video of Ribbet enjoying his favorite new activity, fetch, has brought smiles to the faces of his supporters who have followed his story on social media and the Second Chance blog: www.secondchanceanimals.org/ribbet.

As Ribbet embarks on this new chapter, Second Chance continues its mission to provide lifesaving medical care for shelter pets in need. Stories like Ribbet’s highlight the importance of these efforts and the significant costs involved in providing such specialized care. 

You can help ensure more pets like Ribbet get their second chance. Donations made to Second Chance will go directly toward medical care for pets in need. Visit http://www.secondchanceanimals.org to make a difference today. Every contribution helps provide hope and healing to pets facing extraordinary challenges.

PHOTO: Ribbet napping with his new family.

VIDEO: YouTube Link: https://youtube.com/shorts/eZ0FZo4c5B8

Evening of Illumination

Old Sturbridge Village

Select Saturdays | Jan. 25, Feb. 8, and Feb. 22

Times: Tours leave every 10 minutes from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. Timed tickets are required.

Cost: $35 Member Adults, $50 Non-Member Adults

Meets at Ox & Yoke Cafe (across from the entrance to the Visitor Center)

How did New England families spend their evenings before the intrusion of texting, telephones, TVs, and computers? Visitors to Old Sturbridge Village will get a rare chance to find out as they tour the historic Village lit only by candles, oil lamps, lanterns, and firelight during Old Sturbridge Village’s Evening of Illumination. Guided tours around the Village Common allow guests to visit select homes and shops to see how early New Englanders spent their evenings in the days before electricity. Visitors will be treated to music and storytelling throughout the tour and will see Village artisans at work by candlelight. Each tour will begin with hot cocoa or coffee and will conclude in the Bullard Tavern, where guests can enjoy warm beverages and light fare.* This program is designed for adults.

*Light fare and beverage is included in your ticket.

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

EVENING OF ILLUMINATION IS SPONSORED BY NATIONAL GRID

Wild Bird Trivia Night at Klem's!

Thursday, January 23, 2025 (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM)

Join us at Klem’s for a night of feathered fun with the Shafer Rep, Tom! Test your bird knowledge in an engaging trivia competition all about wild birds. ‍Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious about our winged friends, this event is perfect for nature enthusiasts of all levels. 

Enjoy:

• Exciting and educational trivia rounds with prizes for the top winners!

• Expert tips on bird care and feeding from the Shafer Rep! 

• Save Big! Shop special discounts on wild bird products during the event! 

• Event Exclusive: Free Gift with Purchase of Wild Bird Products! See store for details. 

• Q&A Session! Free Raffles & Seed Samples! • Become a Rewards Member and learn how you can earn Free Wild Bird Food! 

• Complimentary Refreshments & More! Mark Your Calendars:️ 

When: Thursday, January 23rd (Snow Date: January 30th) Time: 6:00 pm Where: Klem’s, 117 West Main Street, Spencer, MA 01562 

We hope you will join us! Bring your bird-loving friends and your best bird facts—this is one trivia night you won’t want to miss!

Tutti Quanti Wine Tasting: January 28, 6:30 - 8:00pm

All Wine Tastings are from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Attendees will gain insights into the principles of pairing different wines with specific types of cuisine, creating a sensory journey that celebrates the nuances of both food and wine in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Savor a carefully curated selection of our wines paired with our products.

Registration fee is $15 and can be purchased on EventBrite (see link below). Note there is no seating. No refunds. Guests will receive a $5 voucher to be used for a store purchase and are able to shop for wine and food after the event.

PLEASE NOTE: If you register for an event, we count on you seeing you there. As you may expect, we prepare food and wine based on our registration numbers. Please email Laurie if you need to cancel your registration.

To Register: www.tuttiquantifoods.com/wine-tastings

7 Bridges Road: An Acoustic Tribute to the Eagles

February 1, 2025, 5:30pm-10:00pm

The Barn at Wight Farm

420 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA

7 BRIDGES ROAD IS BACK AT THE BARN! 

Is there a better way to spend a Friday evening in February than with New England’s own 7 Bridges Road Band? Returning to The Barn at Wight Farm and performing in our Winthrop Room, this acoustic tribute to the one and only Eagles is not to be missed. If you are even a little bit of an Eagles fan this show will have you singing along from the first song. This show sold out for their last 6 appearances at The Barn…so make sure you purchase your tickets early.

All shows are accompanied by a complete buffet meal including salad and rolls. A full cash bar is always available and decadent desserts can also be purchased at an additional charge. There are always several protein options to choose from. Vegetarian and Gluten-Free options are available with advanced notice to our staff. Doors open at 5:30 pm, buffet begins at 6:00 pm, music starts at 7:30 pm.

Please visit thebarnatwightfarm.com or our Facebook page at facebook.com/thebarnatwightfarm to keep up to date on new shows or upcoming events. You can also call The Barn at 774.241.8450 for questions or for more information. Ticket can only be purchased on eventbrite.com.

Tickets: $60 – $65 Purchase on eventbrite here.

Stewing Over Mysteries with Hank Phillippi Ryan

Thursday, February 13, 2025, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of thrilling mysteries and hearty comfort food as USA Today bestselling author Hank Phillippi Ryan comes to Sturbridge for an exclusive author event. Sponsored by the Friends of the Joshua Hyde Public Library, this event will take place on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the iconic Publick House in Sturbridge, MA. Stewing Over Mysteries is a night of captivating conversation, delicious food, and the chance to meet one of the country’s top mystery writers. 

Ticket Information:

 •General Admission: $20 – Includes admission to the event and dinner of beef stew, rolls, dessert, coffee/tea. A vegetarian and gluten-free option is available at time of ticket purchase.

 •Book & Ticket Package: $34 – Includes event admission, dinner, and a signed copy of Hank Phillippi Ryan’s novel, One Wrong Word 

Book Club on the Go is the official bookseller for the event. www.bookclubct.com/

Tickets are limited, so don’t miss out on this chance to dine, chat, and discover more about the art of mystery writing with one of the best in the genre. 

To purchase tickets, visit www.sturbridgelibrary.org 

HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN is the USA Today bestselling author of 15 psychological thrillers, winning the genre’s most prestigious awards: five Agathas, five Anthonys, and the coveted Mary Higgins Clark Award. She’s also investigative reporter for Boston’s WHDH-TV, winning 37 EMMYs. Her newest is the page-turning standalone ONE WRONG WORD – a twisty non-stop story of gaslighting, manipulation, and murder. She is the host of CRIME TIME on A Mighty Blaze, and co-host of THE BACK ROOM and FIRST CHAPTER FUN. She lives in Boston.

Select Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through April.

There are a limited number of spots for February. Please give us a call at 508-867-2345. We also have tickets available for March and April 2025! Imagine welcoming spring with a cozy evening by the fireplace, enjoying delicious food and great company.

GET ALL THE DETAILS AND PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS NOW!

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

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