CMS Chamber logo  

 

In This Issue
Holiday Fun at Five!
2017 Marketing For Members: Be Visible all Year Long.
Brown Bag Series: Landscaping Seminar
Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon
Harrington Holds Annual Meeting, Elects Officers
NBSB: Avoid Online Holiday Shoppping Fraud
Idea Agency Wins Davey's
MA Wellness Tax Credit
Country Bank Donates $1 Million to Baystate Wing Hospital
SCR Donation Benefits Harrington Cancer Center
NBSB's November Hat Contest
Priceless Gifts from The Last Green Valley!
Stop Abuse Today
Auxiliary Dedicates Chapel Artwork
Feast of the Seven Fishes
Christmas by Candlelight
Cannery Shows
Holidays at Salem Cross Inn!
National Marionette Theatre at OSV
New Year's Antique Show at Sturbridge
United Way's Baby Boomer Comedy Night
Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Free Saturday Tastings
24/7 Training
Save these Dates!
SCORE Workshop
SCU CR ad
BankHometown ad
Chamber of Commerce 
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
  
Cindy Howard
Chair
Center of Hope
 
Bruce Watkins
Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision 

Jocelyn Callis
1st Vice Chair
OFS

Michael Checkosky
Immediate Past Chair
__________ 

Board Members

Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group  

Jessica Bettencourt
Klem's
 
Chris Canniff

Susan Collins
Bank Hometown


Bob Datz 
datzmedia 

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union

Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty


Les Gardner
Les Gardner Photography


Laurie Nelson
Christopher Heights

Heather Pedersen
Country Bank

Rita Schiano 

Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co. 
 
Jim Donahue
Honorary Board Member
 
Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
 
 __________

Chamber Staff

Alexandra McNitt
 Executive Director

Paulette Hughes
Finance & Administration

Jack Starkey
Communications Specialist 

Chamber Links

CMS Chamber logo
Stur Townships - Everything but Ordinary  

Welcome to December's Crossroads EVENTS!

Ho, Ho, Hold on there... This year is not over yet and you'll find some timely news from the Chamber and our Members as well as ways to keep the seasonal revelry going in this last Crossroads of 2016.

Holiday Fun at Five at The Publick House is just days away. It's always a warm and festive event and we hope to celebrate with you! Details are below and there is still time to RSVP. The first seminar in our Brown Bag Lunch Series is coming in January. Check out the info below and save your spot. These seminars are FREE for Members! We are also very proud to reveal the 2016 Business and Citizen of the Year in this issue!  
 
Do you have events we can share with our readers? We urge you to post your upcoming events to the Chamber's Events Calendar.   We love sharing your news items and events! Thank you for posting them!  

Connect with us on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest for more from your Chamber!
    
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Holiday
 
FUN at FIVE! 
Monday, December 19 
5:00-8:00pm 
The Publick House Historic Inn
Publick House  
277 Main Street, Sturbridge 
 
Join us for some holiday cheer with our Members and Guests on the evening of
Monday, December 19! 
The final Fun at Five of the year will be a memorable bash at 
The Publick House in Sturbridge 
featuring amazing food, a joyous atmosphere,
great prizes, a 50/50 Raffle, and your chance to revel with a festive and fetching crowd!

We will be collecting for TOYS FOR TOTS at
Holiday Fun at Five. If you are able to donate an unwrapped new toy, your contribution would be most welcome and help spread holiday joy and smiles to the less fortunate. 
Thank you for your generosity!

We look forward to celebrating with you!

RSVP by phone at 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org.   
Cost: $10 for pre-registered Members,
$15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.

Thank you 
to our  
Holiday Fun at Five Sponsor!
Klem's Logo 
Klem's  
117 West Main Street, Spencer   
508-885-2708  
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Be Visible in 2017 with
Marketing for Members Packages

Since this is the last Crossroads EVENTS of 2016, it's a great time to remind you of our Marketing For Members program. Now's the time to reserve one of the advertising packages that we have created to help you be more visible, maximize your marketing dollars, and get more business.
 
Dive right in with our comprehensive Gold Package which includes opportunities to advertise your business in all of the Chamber's media outlets. Or pick and choose the individual items that suit your business' needs from our print and digital a la carte menus. The choice is yours!
 
Our Marketing For Members page details the packages and individual items that are available to you. Email Jack today to reserve your choice(s) or to answer any questions you may have about our "Marketing For Members" program.
 
Take advantage of your Membership in the Chamber and let us help you design a well-rounded advertising campaign to help your business be more visible... and stay visible all year long!  
CMS Chamber Brown Bag Seminar Series
Most Common Landscaping  
Questions & Concerns
with Chamber Member Calvin Montigny
Calvin Montigny
Tuesday, January 24, Noon to 1pm  
Chamber Conference Room, 46 Hall Road, Sturbridge

Free for CMS Chamber Members, $50 for non-Members. Space is Limited! Seats filled on first come first served basis. Please RSVP by January 20.
 
Feel free to bring your lunch.
Use our microwave to heat it up.
Relax, learn and grow with us!

We are very pleased to invite you to the first in our series of Brown Bag lunch seminars for 2017. Sessions will be held in the new Chamber conference room at 46 Hall Road in Sturbridge.

This Brown Bag lunch seminar will focus on the concerns heard most often by Calvin Montigny, whose 33 years in business as Montigny Landscaping in the Sturbridge area has focused on homeowners and residential landscaping. (www.montignylandscaping.com). Come learn best practices for long-term health of lawns and plantings, installation of yard-enhancing features and best utilization of property for a pleasing natural outdoor environment. Bring questions of your own. The presentation emphasizes patience and devotion to one's outdoor stock and environment rather than a quick-fix approach, in order to provide the greatest satisfaction year after year.
 
Major topic and discussion areas are:
 
1.    Lawn in bad shape; "What's wrong with my lawn?"
  • Nutrient program or lack thereof
  • Insect control
  • Watering / drainage habits
  • Soil and indicators of pH problems
  • Recovery Time Expectations: realistic time line vs. "miracle" claims
2.    What to do to spruce up for sale, curb appeal?
  • Planning ahead
  • Working with what you have; thinning, pruning, etc
  • Newer, bigger plantings and their costs
  • Hardscapes as an option
3.    How to plan ahead for lot development - before excavation/lot clearing
  • Siting within lot
  • Consider existing natural assets
  • Plan later enhancements now
4.    Water: Handling the Watering Bans / Water Table Worries / Water Needs
  • Timing
  • Dormancy for lawns
  • Sod vs. Lawns
  • Water efficiency
5.    When is the right time to ...?
  • Plant
  • Prune
  • Seed
  • Nourish
  • Install a hardscape
  • Think about and plan for the above / consider engaging a professional
Call 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org to save your spot!
Chamber of Central Mass South
Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon
Thursday, January 19, 11:30am to 1:00pm
The Barn at Wight Farm, 420 Main Street, Sturbridge

Please join us as we enjoy a luncheon meeting with our special guest speaker US Congressman James McGovern and the presentation of the 2016 Chamber Service Awards. We hope you will attend as we will recognize and pay tribute to our very deserving 2016 Business and Citizen of the Year Awards Winners.

Guest Speaker: US Congressman James McGovern
US Congress_man James McGovern
 
This year's Chamber Award honorees are:  
Citizen of the Year, Margo Chevers and Business of the Year, B.T.'s Smokehouse. 
2016 Honorees
                                                    Margo Chevers               Brian Treitman, B.T.'s Smokehouse
 
Agenda
                              11:30     Registration & Mingling
                              11:45     Lunch Begins & Welcome from the Chairman of the Board
                              12:15     Guest Speaker US Congressman James McGovern
                              12:45     Citizen of the Year & Business of the Year Award Presentation
                                1:00     Adjourn
 
Menu
Garden Salad
Boursin Filled Statler Chicken Breast with Chipolini Onion, Caramelized A Jus
Whipped Herb Potato
Pancetta Brussels Sprouts
Warm Bread Pudding with Whipped Cream
Coffee & Tea Station

Cost: $29 per person for Members, Table of 10 for $250 
$35 per person for non-Members, Table of 10 for $350

Please RSVP by January 13. 
info@cmschamber.org or 508-347-2761 
Member to Member for the Holidays!
M2M logo 
Discounts from Members... for Members!
Click the logo to view the current offers!
Enjoy your M2M Discount at these Attractions and Retail Shops!

OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE
THE LAST GREEN VALLEY
BRUSH-IT-OFF PAINT & SIP BAR
ALTERNATIVES FOR HEALTH HERBAL APOTHECARY
THE HANDMAIDEN
MORIN JEWELERS
SADIE GREEN'S CURIOSITY SHOP
STURBRIDGE POTTERY
 
Thank you for keeping it Local! 
Harrington HealthCare Holds Annual Meeting; Elects Officers
Harrington Officers
            Jay Deterando                     James Waddick                  Deborah J. Boyd                      Randall Becker

The annual meetings of the Harrington HealthCare System and Harrington Memorial Hospital were held on October 25, 2017 and included the election of new members, directors and officers for 2016-2017.
 
New Members elected to three-year terms expiring in 2019 include Randall Becker, Timothy Bent, Honorable Timothy Bibaud, Michael Engel, Roxana Gomez-Vargas, Glenn Juchno, Pamela Leduc, Kevin Smith, Nataley Stanley, DMD and Steve Thebodo.
 
Deborah J. Boyd, of Fiskdale, and Randall Becker, of Webster, were elected to the Board of Directors.
 
Newly-elected officers to one-year terms include A. Jay Detarando, Chair; Mark Palmerino, Vice Chair; Edward H. Moore, President; Randall Becker, Secretary and Thomas J. Sullivan, Treasurer.
 
Members heard reports from the Finance Committee, the Investment Committee, the President of the Medical Staff, Francis Powers, M.D.; the President of the Auxiliary, Helen Lenti; Harrington Physician Services; the outgoing chair, James Waddick; the incoming chair, A. Jay Detarando and President and CEO Ed Moore.
 
Outgoing Chair James Waddick thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve in that capacity. "Harrington has been fortunate to have exceptional people serving as Members and Directors," he said, "and, to have a visionary President/CEO who has substantially grown our Healthcare System and has assembled and developed an outstanding senior leadership team."
 
Newly-elected Chair A. Jay Detarando thanked Members for their nomination and support, then went on to thank Waddick for his three years of service as Chair. "Jim Waddick is not the guy who looks for the spotlight or recognition," he said, "but I'm going to give it to him anyway, for just a minute."

"As you know," he continued, "Jim has served as chairman for the last 3 years and has done it in a way consistent with the selfless approach he has used for many years serving our community, including the United Way, Rotary, the Chamber, and a local financial institution, as well as the Hospital to highlight just a few. He is always prepared and well-read and has always put the Hospital and the community before himself or any self-interest. He is a strong leader with tremendous business and life experience and it's been rewarding serving under him. I would like to thank Jim for all that he has done for the Hospital, the community and for me personally."

Harrington Hospital NEW
North Brookfield Savings Bank Suggests 
Seven Ways to Avoid Online Fraud with Holiday Shopping
 
With more and more holiday shopping being completed online each year, North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) continues to bring awareness to the important topic of cybersecurity by highlighting seven tips to help its community members protect themselves from online fraud.
 
Every year, millions of consumers fall victim to cybercrime. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, in 2014 consumers lost more than $800 million from scams initiated through the web.
 
"At NBSB, we want to make sure our customers and the communities are informed on how to protect themselves from cybercriminals," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President & CEO Donna Boulanger. "Criminals are becoming more sophisticated with their hacking techniques and are commonly using the Internet as a tool to commit fraud against unsuspecting online shoppers."
 
NBSB recommends the following tips to keep you safe online while doing your holiday shopping:

Keep your computers and mobile devices up-to-date.
Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware and other online threats. Turn on automatic updates so you receive the newest versions as they become available.

Create complicated passwords.
A strong password is at least eight characters in length and includes a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters.

Watch out for phishing scams.
Phishing scams use fraudulent emails and websites to trick users into disclosing private account or login information. Do not click on links or open any attachments or pop-up screens from sources you are not familiar with. Forward phishing emails to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at spam@uce.gov - and to the company, bank or organization impersonated in the email.

Keep personal information personal.
Hackers can use social media profiles to figure out your passwords and answer those security questions in the password reset tools. Lock down your privacy settings and avoid posting things like birthdays, addresses, mother's maiden name, etc.  Be wary of requests to connect from people you do not know.

Secure your internet connection.
Always protect your home wireless network with a password. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious about what information you are sending over it.

Shop safely.
Before shopping online, make sure the website uses secure technology. When you are at the checkout screen, verify that the web address begins with https. Also, check to see if a tiny locked padlock symbol appears on the page.

Read the site's privacy policies.
Though long and complex, privacy policies tell you how the site protects the personal information it collects. If you don't see or understand a site's privacy policy, consider doing business elsewhere.

NBSB logo
Idea Agency Wins Prestigious Davey Awards

Davey Awards The Davey Awards have again awarded the Idea Agency with a number of placements. The Davey's are prestigious awards for smaller to mid-sized agencies who use powerful concepts to achieve great results. Idea Agency has won numerous awards over the years and this year was no exception as they received five silvers in the 2016 competition.

The fields of Web, Design, Video, Advertising, and Mobile & Social are judged by several brilliant industry minds and is sanctioned by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts. They are specifically looking for agencies using big ideas and unlimited creativity to overcome limited budgets. Idea Agency received awards in the following five categories:

Corporate Identity Manual / Style Guide:
edHealth - edHealth Identity Manual
Commercial Low Budget ($10,000-$15,000): Fallon Health - NaviCare - DRTV Commercial

According to Christine Tieri, Idea Agency president, "Our work with edHealth really speaks to the power of branding at every level of an organization. It's not just about creating an attractive brand identity package, it's about creating a unique position that reflects who the company is from their operations through their look and feel." Tieri, the only Certified Brand Strategist in New England continued, "We are thrilled with the Fallon Health NaviCare commercial. We found a way to create a high-quality spot with limited resources. That's what Davey is all about."
In addition, Idea Agency received three awards for their work with the Hudson Valley Community College in the "That's Bold" campaign:

Integrated Campaign Promotional/Branding:
See the case study here.
Commercial: Schools/Colleges/Universities: See the commercials here:
Specialty Categories Editing: 
See our Creative Director describing how the commercials were made here.

Idea Agency Creative Director, Paul Tonelli commented on the award-winning work for Hudson Valley, "Of course, the vast options college prospects are given makes for a tremendous challenge. For our message to be heard, we felt it was vital to deliver a clear, fact-based communication in a unique and unexpected way. Our primary objective, across all media, was to showcase the many benefits and opportunities students find at Hudson Valley for a fraction of the costs of four-year colleges by literally showing a big picture perspective."
idea agency
Apply by Dec 31, 2016 for the MA Wellness Tax Credit! 
 
Small businesses (200 or fewer employees) that establish a certified wellness program may be eligible to apply for a state tax credit of up to 25% of the cost of their wellness program (maximum credit is $10,000 per year). 
 
Businesses must meet certain eligibility requirements and must apply by December 31, 2016 to be considered.
 
Tax Credit Checklist:
__See if your business and wellness program qualify: www.mass.gov/wellnesstaxcredit
__Certify your wellness program by completing a short, online application available at www.mass.gov/wellnesstaxcredit
__Submit your Certificate and Seal of Approval with your 2016 tax return (You will receive a Certificate and Seal of Approval upon approval for the tax credit).
 
If you are a small business, take advantage of this cost saving opportunity!
 
Division of Prevention and Wellness
Bureau of Community Health and Prevention
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
250 Washington Street, 4th Floor
Boston, MA  02108
Phone: 617.624.6065
Country Bank Donates $1 Million to Baystate Wing  
Emergency Department Project
Country Bank donation
Pictured (l-r) are Robert Haveles, Baystate Wing Hospital and Country Bank trustee; Mary McGovern; chief financial officer, Country Bank and Baystate Health Foundation trustee; Teresa Grove, philanthropy officer, Baystate Health Foundation and Country Bank trustee; Mike Moran, president & chief administrative officer, Baystate Health Eastern Region; Paul Scully, president & CEO, Country Bank and Baystate Wing Hospital trustee; and Jim Phaneuf, Baystate Health, Baystate Wing Hospital and Country Bank trustee.

Country Bank has announced a generous $1 million contribution towards the construction of Baystate Wing Hospital's new Emergency Department.  The project, which is scheduled to begin construction in 2017, will right size the emergency department at our Palmer campus to better accommodate current patient volumes. In the new facility, private rooms will replace curtained bays to enhance patient privacy, a dedicated space will be created for behavioral health patients, and caregivers will have access to the most sophisticated medical technology. This expansion will ensure that Eastern Region patients continue to receive outstanding emergency care close to home.

"Country Bank's pledge to the new Emergency Department at Baystate Wing Hospital supports the Bank's longstanding financial commitment to its community hospitals," said Paul Scully, President and Chief Executive Office of Country Bank.  "Over the years, the Bank has never wavered on its support of both Baystate Wing Hospital and Baystate Mary Lane, as it believes that communities with local access to quality healthcare thrive.  With this pledge of $1 million, Country Bank welcomes others in the community to follow its lead in supporting this terrific project."

The new emergency department will feature 20 patient rooms, including trauma, behavioral health rooms, and other dedicated specialty care areas. The facility will include separate ambulance and public entryways. Input on design concepts was gathered from staff, emergency medical service providers, infection control experts, and patients.

"We are grateful for the continued generous support of Country Bank," said Michael Moran, President and Chief Administrative Officer for Baystate Health's Eastern Region, which includes Baystate Wing Hospital and the Baystate Mary Lane Outpatient Center. "We are committed to providing Emergency Services at both of our campuses. While the Baystate Mary Lane Emergency Department is appropriately sized for their patient volumes, Wing's Emergency Department is significantly undersized and this project will allow us to better accommodate current Emergency Department volumes."  
 
Country Bank's donation is just the latest example of the regional bank's steadfast philanthropic commitment to both Baystate Wing and Baystate Mary Lane, loyally serving as an annual major sponsor of community events and funding patient care needs within both facilities for more than three decades. Country Bank has also funded vital initiatives in support of patient care in the region, including new surgical suites and inpatient units at Baystate Wing Hospital and the more recent renovation of Baystate Mary Lane Radiology Department and Oncology Services.

"Country Bank continues to set the gold standard for exemplary corporate responsibility and philanthropy," said Jane Albert, Executive Director of the Baystate Health Foundation. "It has meaningfully impacted a wide range of healthcare services and programs in Ware, Palmer and the surrounding communities by generously supporting both Baystate Wing and Mary Lane."
Baystate Health is committed to keeping medical care locally rooted across the communities of western Massachusetts, while utilizing the wide reach of specialties and services offered across the health system. To ensure the continuity of care for patients, physicians and care teams have immediate access to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, the only Level 1 Trauma Center and pediatric trauma center in western Massachusetts. By providing safe and sophisticated medical care in the most advanced facilities possible, we are able to improve patient experiences, limit health care expenses, and maximize patient convenience.

"The benefit of being a part of an integrated health system is that we are able to rely on the many resources of our various hospitals,  including some of the nation's most accomplished physicians and  nurses," said Dr. Mark A. Keroack, President & CEO of Baystate Health. "It is imperative that we provide safe and reliable emergency care to our neighbors in the eastern portion of the Pioneer Valley. I could not be more grateful for the generosity and altruistic corporate character of Country Bank. This donation will impact scores of patients and families for generations to come."
Country Bank

Sturbridge Coffee Roasters October "Think Pink" Donation
Benefits The Cancer Center at Harrington
SCR Donates to Harrington
Sturbridge Coffee Roasters (SCR) recently donated $255 to The Cancer Center at Harrington Hospital as a result of their "Think Pink" campaign. During the month of October, Sturbridge Coffee Roasters donated $1 for each pound of freshly roasted coffee purchased to The Cancer Center, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To commemorate our "Think Pink" campaign, coffee was also sold in special pink bags to further raise awareness. The campaign ran at both SCR coffee roasters shops - in Southbridge and the recently opened Dudley location.
 
The campaign was part of Sturbridge Coffee Roasters on-going business plan to give back to the community. Each month, owner Elvis Dyer and his wife Karen choose a charity to donate to on behalf of their business.

Extended Holiday Hours
SCR is pleased to announce their extended holiday hours from December 11-December 24th!
The Southbridge & Dudley location will be open Monday-Friday: 7AM-5PM and Saturday 8AM-3PM. Southbridge will be open Sunday from 9AM-2PM. Stop by and grab some coffee, snacks, food, and great holiday gifts! 

About Sturbridge Coffee Roasters:
Sturbridge Coffee Roasters is your local, fresh roasted coffee shop. The business opened in 2004 in Sturbridge, Mass., in a small space where beans were roasted and delicious coffee drinks were served to locals and tourists. We quickly discovered that our customers also wanted a place to relax with their coffee, which led to the relocation 5 miles down the road to our present location in Southbridge, Mass. In August 2014, the business was sold to the current owner and coffee lover, Elvis Dyer. In July 2015, we opened our second location in Dudley, Mass. Our bean offerings continue to expand to provide opportunities for coffee lovers to experience new flavor profiles and beans from around the world.

Sheryl Rhoades of Palmer Wins NBSB's November Hat Contest
Sheryl Rhoades
, NBSB's November Hat winner, with her husband Arthur Rhoades.

While some of us journeyed over the river and through the woods this past month, one local resident was stopping by Three Rivers at just the right time. Sheryl Rhoades, resident of Palmer, MA was awarded a $100 gift certificate for being the North Brookfield Savings Bank "Where It's At" November Hat Contest winner.

Each month, anyone spotted wearing a NBSB hat by a Bank representative is entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift certificate to a local establishment. Rhoades was spotted wearing her North Brookfield Savings Bank hat and won a $100 gift certificate to The Steaming Tender in Palmer, MA.

Sheryl Rhoades and her husband, Arthur, had recently visited the Three Rivers Branch located at 2060 Main Street to make a donation of a children's bicycle to the NBSB Annual Toy Drive. Toy donations are being accepted at all NBSB locations through December 10 and are donated to local toy programs in each community, to ensure that local children in need will receive holiday presents.

To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank and the "Where It's At" Hat Contest, visit www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
NBSB logo
Share Your Love of The Last Green Valley by Giving Priceless Gifts  
This Holiday Season!

TLGV logo 'Tis the season to celebrate and to give! The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is a sparkling gift we all enjoy in so many ways - the 35 towns in eastern Connecticut and south central Massachusetts each has something unique for you to love and share.

Help ensure The Last Green Valley's future - gifts of membership and donations made in honor of those you love are gifts from the heart. Pair a Last Green Valley membership with a 2017 Explore The Last Green Valley Calendar, with beautiful scenes from throughout our National Heritage Corridor. For the outdoor adventurer on your list, how about a brand-new and updated Paddle Guide for the Quinebaug, Willimantic, and Shetucket Rivers, featuring miles of designated National Recreation Water Trails!  These gifts and more are available online at www.thelastgreenvalley.org, which also includes information about programs, volunteering, business and nonprofit partners, contests, and an events calendar. Keep up to date with The Last Green Valley on Facebook and Instagram, too.  


Shop local and share your love for The Last Green Valley, where your dollars will have a big impact on the region's future!


The Last Green Valley is a National Heritage Corridor - the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C.  The Last Green Valley, Inc. works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. We help you to care for it, enjoy it and pass it on. 
Stop Abuse Today
Stop Abuse Today
Stop Abuse Today is the vision of the Tri-Town Domestic Violence Task Force

Area community members combine forces to bring the message of healthy relationships to all in our community.  Every three months, the Task Force meets at Hitchcock Academy with representatives from DCF, police, schools, shelters, politicians, DTA, Healthy Families, church groups and community members. Together, they are working to develop programs and support systems to help stop abuse today! For more information, visit stopabusetoday.org.
 
Harrington Hospital Auxiliary Dedicates Chapel Artwork

Chapel Art
The Harrington Hospital Auxiliary held a dedication ceremony on November 28, 2016 to celebrate the installation of new artwork in the hospital chapel. The unique glass and ceramic piece, titled "Released," was funded by donations in memory of Lorraine Langevin, long-time Southbridge resident and active Auxiliary volunteer who passed away on February 7, 2014, and an appropriations grant from the Auxiliary.

The triptych is the creation of Dot Burnworth, owner Sawmill Pottery in Putnam, CT, and Amy Jackowski, owner Aspinock Spring Pottery & Glass, also in Putnam, who collaborated on this modern, non-denominational piece of art that represents hope and invites interpretation from the viewer. Comprising three panels of varying shades of blue and white and seven doves, "Released" reflects Lorraine's love of water and art.

During the dedication ceremony, Reverend John Shaw, pastoral outreach at Harrington Hospital, dedicated the artwork to all who visit the chapel in search of peace and serenity and a quiet place to reflect. Lise Travinski, one of Lorraine Langevin's daughters, said, "My mother would be very proud and thrilled that there is a place for contemplation, respite and peace within the hospital."  

The chapel is located on the second floor of Harrington Hospital and welcomes all visitors.

Happy Holidays!
Feast of the Seven Fishes  
Avellino 
Thursday, December 15, 2016, 6:30pm  

The traditional December "Feast of the Seven Fishes" banquet will be held on just one night this year: Thursday, December 15. This popular event is always a sell-out so call 508-347-2321 today to make your reservation.

The cost per person on this extravagant feast is $68 not including tax or gratuity.
Your Last Chance This Year to Experience...
Christmas By Candlelight logo  
Christmas By Candlelight  
Remaining 2016 Dates: December 16 - 18 and 23, 3:00 to 9:00 pm

Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village is an evening filled with New England holiday traditions, live musical performances, storytelling, sleigh rides, festive foods, a roaring bonfire, and strolls around the decorated Village Common. New this year is the North Pole Village where families will find Santa and his whimsical elves, Mrs. Claus' Bake Shop, a magical talking Christmas tree, a kids' holiday craft workshop, and an expanded G-scale train display.
And do not miss the nightly tree lighting and the ever-popular gingerbread house contest!

Visit www.osvchristmas.org for all the details!

OSV footer 
Cannery Show
Live Music at The Cannery Music Hall! 
Christmas Memories
December 17 
Salem Cross Christmas We all look for special and memorable Christmas events to attend with family and friends during the Christmas season. The Challenge? Finding Christmas events that will entertain everyone from Grandma and Grandpa to our dear little toddlers. Look no further, the Christmas Memories series at the Salem Cross Inn is a beautiful and entertaining event to attend with the family. 
 
Start a new tradition this year by coming to the Christmas Memories. Enjoy a play based on Dylan Thomas' "A Child's Christmas in Wales". Listen to the Stageloft Repertory Theater performers dressed in 19th century costumes sing over 20 carols. Better yet, sing along with them and rekindle memories of Christmases past while making memories of the Christmas present. During these Christmas events, the actors circulate throughout the room so everyone feels like a part of the festivities.

What's a Christmas event celebration without food? A traditional New England turkey dinner takes center stage for this one. Start with a tossed garden salad with the chef's homemade creamy Italian dressing and freshly made squash muffins and white dinner rolls. Indulge yourself with fresh, moist turkey, Grandmother's traditional bread stuffing, giblet gravy over real whipped potatoes, and fresh butternut squash seasoned to perfection. Complete your meal with a scoop of peppermint stick ice cream rolled in chocolate cake crumbs, topped with Salem Cross Inn's famous hot fudge, whipped cream, and a candy cane.

Join in the wassail toast and raise a glass to a new tradition. Glasses filled with farm fresh apple cider will be lifted to commemorate the holiday season. The decorations throughout the building are a joy to see. Salem Cross Inn during the winter months is a captivating scene. Bring the family, bring your friends, carve out some time for yourself. Singing Christmas carols brings out the goodness in everyone.

On Saturday, December 17th, children can visit with Santa from 10:30am - 11:30am. 
Be sure to bring your camera and get photos with jolly old Saint Nick! 
 
Appropriate for all ages.
Advance ticket sales only. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Order tickets online at www.salemcrossinn.com or call 508-867-2345.
 
 
Fireplace Feast
December 23
 
Lend a hand as dinner is prepared for you in colonial style or just relax by the fire with a hot glass of mulled cider or wine. Stir the chowder as it bubbles in our cast iron cauldron.  See your prime rib roasted "to a turn" on the only known authentic Roasting Jack still operating in America, rotating slowly over a crackling fire of wild cherry logs.  Beware the brimming bowl of freshly whipped cream, the perfect complement to New England's Best Apple Pie.

While your dinner is cooking to perfection, enjoy a horse drawn wagon or sleigh ride through the valley on the Inn's pristine 600 acres. After your ride, shake off the chill with warm mulled wine or cider at our dining event. Browse our extensive collection of Colonial and Federal period American antiques.
 
The event includes:
Pie making, mulling and chowder demonstrations
Horsedrawn wagon or sleigh ride, weather permitting 
Casual dress is a must for this event

Visit the link for more dates, tickets and more information.
260 West Main St. Route 9
West Brookfield MA 01585 

NEW YEARS FIREPLACE FEAST IS SOLD OUT! 
The Feast is sold out but the dining room is not.  We'll be serving our full menu in addition to chef's specials.  Our dining guests are welcome to be a part of the party in the Tap Room where we will have a DJ playing popular music and a countdown to ring in the new year.   
Plenty of party hats and noisemakers to go around! 
 
PLEASE NOTE:
 In January, our hours will be changing. We will see you for dinner on Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays. For more details please see the schedule. 
 
Marionette
National Marionette Theatre at Old Sturbridge Village 
Shows: 11:00 am | 1:00 pm | 3:00 pm

The National Marionette Theatre is coming to Old Sturbridge Village for December school vacation week! Founded in 1967 by artistic director David A. Syrotiak, this award-winning marionette company has been entertaining and amazing audiences around the world with its imaginative productions for more than forty years.
 
OSV Members: $7 per person per show 
Non-Members: $9 per person per show 

Before or after attending a marionette show, non-members can enjoy a day at
Old Sturbridge Village for an additional $5 per person!

Visit this link for more information and tickets.

Performances are 50 minutes in length and each day will feature a different story:
 
December 28 - Pinocchio
December 29 - Sleeping Beauty
December 30 - Peter and the Wolf
December 31 - Hansel and Gretel
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The 3rd Annual Sturbridge Antique Show
Will be back on New Year's Eve 2016 and New Year's Day 2017,
Reserve now by calling Dave White at Navigator Publishing  508-488-6133

Come and see the best antiques Central Massachusetts has to offer! On New Year's Eve enjoy a festive atmosphere with old friends while enjoying a glass of wine & hors d'oeuvres. This will be your opportunity to browse the show and purchase! Call or email Dave White today at 508-488-6133 or email Dave: SturbridgeAntiqueShow@gmail.com

In a fun, relaxing atmosphere. This show will be held at one of the best and most comfortable venues in all of New England - The Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center - in the heart of Central New England.

So, come one and come all and enjoy a great start to the New Year!
Visit the show online for details, tickets, schedules and more.
Get Your Tickets Today!
United Way Comedy Night
A night of laughter to benefit the United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge & Charlton. The perfect night to enjoy this family-friendly event.  The Baby Boomer Comedy Show is 90 minutes of hilarious clean stand-up comedy focusing on work, family, do-it-yourself projects, and many other topics that these audiences can relate to! Kent Rader and Jan McInnis are both baby boomers who have spent the past 20 years performing for thousands of business groups, non-profit organizations and other professional events. They have a reputation for clean and funny humor - Jan was featured in the Wall Street Journal and the Washington Post for her clean humor, and Kent's clean comedy won him the Branson Comedy festival.

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door.
For tickets call 508-765-5491 or text COMEDY to 40403.
Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Thursday Evenings, 7:00-8:15pm
Southbridge Savings Bank Community Room
200 Charlton Road, Sturbridge
Village Toastmasters
 
Looking to develop speaking and leadership skills? Ace a job interview? Ignite your career? Confidence is earned amongst a supportive group of like minded individuals.
Guests are always welcome!!  
 
Please arrive 15 minutes early (6:45pm) as meetings start promptly.  
 

Winebuyers Outlet

Free Saturday Tastings!

 

Please join The Winebuyer's Outlet / Sturbridge Cheese & Chocolate at their Free Tastings of Artisan Cheeses, luscious Chocolates & Fine Wines every Saturday from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. This is a great way to taste before you buy and discover new favorites!

 

179 Main Street, Sturbridge    

508-347-1500 www.winebuyersoutlet.com

Coggno Training
Click on the image to browse our catalog of training courses!
SAVE 25% off COGGNO'S BEST-SELLING COURSES 
Purchase by 12/31 and use this code!
Coggno Coupon code
Save these Dates!
December 19: Holiday Fun at Five at The Publick House with Klem's  
December 21: Winter Begins    
December 23: Last Evening of Christmas By Candlelight at OSV    
  December 24: Hanukkah Begins
December 25:
Christmas Day
December 31- January 1:
Central Mass Antique Show at Sturbridge
January 19: Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon 
January 24: Landscaping Seminar with Calvin Montigny
January 28: United Way Baby Boomer Comedy Show 

Thank you for posting your events to our Events Calendar!

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