| |
|
|
|
Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
|
|
Executive Committee
Jocelyn Callis
1st Vice Chair
Michael Checkosky
_______
Board Members
Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co.
Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
Chamber Staff
Executive Director
Finance & Administration
Communications Specialist
|
| Chamber Links |
|
|
|
|
|
Greetings from the Chamber of Central Mass South!
Welcome to February's CROSSROADS NEWS!
We recap our Awards luncheon, invite you to network, learn, and attend an upcoming lunch with Massachusetts Governor Baker in this issue. You'll also find a flurry of cool events to help you make the most of winter as well as items of interest from our Members.
Got news? Email us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in the next issue of Crossroads! Thank you for posting your 2017 events to our online events calendar! We love sharing them with our readers! Extra for Experts! Connect with us on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest for more from your Chamber! |
North Brookfield
Savings Bank
and
Salem Cross Inn
Fun at Five
Tuesday, February 7th at 5:00pm
North Brookfield Savings Bank partners with
Salem Cross Inn to bring you this Fun at Five.
Mingle and network with a terrific crowd, enjoy delicious appetizers and chances to win great prizes! Warm up by the fire and relax in the
ambience of a restored 1705 farmhouse and one of the finest examples of colonial restoration in the country.
Salem Cross Inn has won the 2016 WeddingWire's Couple's Choice Award, been selected three consecutive years as The Best of The Knot for weddings, and was recently featured in
Worcester Living Magazine
and
Foodies Magazine
! Visit www.salemcrossinn.com for more!
Bring your sweetheart, take home some sweet treats and start the celebration early at this delightful Valentine's themed event!
You could WIN a brand new GoPro Hero+
and take home more "sweet" giveaways
courtesy of North Brookfield Savings Bank!
The cost to attend Fun at Five is $10 for Chamber members who pre-register, $15 for members at the door, $20 for non-members.
Thank you to our February
Fun at Five Sponsor!
North Brookfield Savings Bank
North Brookfield | East Brookfield | West Brookfield Ware | Belchertown | Palmer | Three Rivers
|
|
|
CMS Chamber Brown Bag Seminar Series
How To Stage
Your Home For Sale
with Chamber Member Terri Ricard,
Tuesday, February 28, at Noon,
Chamber Conference Room,
46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
FREE for CMS Chamber Members,
$50 for non-Members. Space is Limited!
Please RSVP by February 27.
Call 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org to save your spot! Feel free to bring your lunch. Use our microwave to heat it up! Relax, learn and grow with us!
This Brown Bag lunch seminar will be presented by Terri Ricard of ERA Key Realty Services and will cover all you need to know about staging your home when it's time to sell. Terri has many years of experience in this area and knows that your home has just one chance to make a great impression on potential buyers.
Terri's presentation will include information on:
- What is home staging?
- Does it cost a lot of money?
- Curb appeal of your property
- General Interior Tips room by room
- Time to show your home
Terri will also provide printed handouts on all the staging tips and information which is covered.
 More About Terri Ricard
Terri Ricard has been in the real estate business since 2005 and serves the Sturbridge/Charlton area. Terri has extensive experience in new construction, waterfront properties, and helping people find their new homes.
You can reach her at her Sturbridge Office, ERA Key Realty Services, Sturbridge MA, 01518, 508-615-5450 or
tricard@erakey.com.
|
KEEP WARM WITH M2M DISCOUNTS!
The Chamber's Member2Member Program
Discounts from Members... for Members!
CHECK OUT THIS BRAND NEW M2M OFFER FROM
Want to save money on your energy needs at work and at home? Pioneer Oil and Propane can help you do both!
Want to offer your employees a great benefit at no cost to you? As employees of Chamber Members, Pioneer can provide a plan to help them as well. 10 cents per gallon off every gallon of automatic oil delivery, 25 cents per gallon off every gallon of automatic propane deliveries and a free Easy Comfort Service Plan on their heating equipment.
Just as importantly, we can take care of your business and residential needs with the industry leading Service, Quality and Value ... Guaranteed!!
We THANK YOU for KEEPING IT LOCAL!
|
|
|
With deep appreciation...
The Chamber of Central Mass South presented the 2016 Annual Awards to its Citizen and Business of the Year at our Annual Meeting at The Barn at Wight Farm on January 19. Heartfelt testimonials were offered and we were very pleased to have so many join us as we honored Margo and Brian for all they have done.
At left: Representative Todd Smola, Chamber Executive Director Alexandra McNitt, Citizen of the Year: Margo Chevers, State Senator Anne Gobi and Chamber Chair Cindy Howard. At right: Anne Gobi congratulates Brian Treitman of B.T.'s Smokehouse, the Chamber Business of the Year.
Thank you to Les Gardner for taking and sharing these photographs. You may view the gallery of photos from the Annual Meeting here.
|
Welcome New Chamber Members!
We are very proud to introduce our newest Members!
Stephen Fleshman Architect, LLC
Full Service Architectural firm providing thoughtful designs
for residential, commercial, institutional and industrial clients.
99 Apple Road, Brimfield
508-347-7188
LightWire, Inc.
Providing outsourced IT support with monthly plans
to small and midsize businesses.
600 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA
Mexicali Mexican Grill
Authentic Mexican Cuisine.
117 Main Street, Spencer, MA
New England Custom Closets, LLC
Custom Closet, Mud Room & Pantry Installations.
19 Carol Street, Enfield, CT
Tantasqua Education Foundation
Provides grant monies to teachers and staff of Tantasqua Union 61 District schools
who apply for extraordinary projects not funded in the school budget.
P.O. Box 222, Fiskdale, MA 01518
www.tedfound.org
LOOKING FOR A CHAMBER MEMBER?
|
Lunch with Governor Baker
March 23, 2017 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
14 Mechanics Street, Southbridge MA, 01550
The Chamber is very excited to welcome His Excellency Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker who will share the latest news from Beacon Hill and answer your questions. We are pleased to offer this invitation to the Members of the Chamber of Central Mass South as well as our affiliates with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and hope you will join us for an informative and delicious luncheon at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center.
Please call or email us for more information or to reserve your space.
Governor Baker's Bio
 Governor Charlie Baker was inaugurated as the 72nd Governor of Massachusetts on January 8th, 2015. Since taking office, he has been making Massachusetts a great place to live, work and raise a family while delivering a customer-service oriented state government that is as hard working as the people of the Commonwealth.
Upon taking office, Governor Baker worked to close two budget gaps worth more than $2 billion without raising taxes, while bolstering local aid for our schools and communities, investing in a more reliable public transportation system and prioritizing funds to fight the opioid and heroin epidemic.
Governor Baker has supported robust business sectors by reforming the Commonwealth's regulatory environment, holding the line on taxes, and advancing efforts to rein in energy costs.
Ensuring Massachusetts continues to be a national leader in education, Governor Baker has invested over $4.6 billion in Chapter 70 education funding -- the highest level of local education aid in state history.
Confronted with a devastating opioid and heroin epidemic, Governor Baker's administration has implemented a plan focused on prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery support, including partnering with the legislature on passage of landmark legislation.
Met with a historic snowfall during his first winter in office that halted our beleaguered mass transit system, Governor Baker undertook a major overhaul to fix the MBTA by appointing a Fiscal and Management Control Board to oversee the system's operations and finances, and prioritize investments in the core system that over one million daily riders depend upon.
Prior to his election, Governor Baker was a highly successful leader of complex business and government organizations, serving as a cabinet secretary to both Governor William Weld and Paul Cellucci, and leading Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, as CEO, from the brink of bankruptcy to one of the nation's highest ranked health care providers.
Raised in Needham, Governor Baker and his wife Lauren reside in Swampscott, and are the proud parents of their three children, Charlie, AJ, and Caroline.
The Luncheon Menu
Spring Salad
Field greens, candied walnuts, raspberries, and goat cheese
Surf & Turf
Coffee crusted filet with baked stuffed shrimp
Bananas Foster
Caramelized bananas, griddled pound cake and vanilla ice cream
To Attend:
The cost is $39 per person with tables of 10 for $375 for Members and affiliates.
The cost for non-members is $50 per person with tables of 10 for $500.
The Deadline to RSVP is March 16.
|
|
Join MA Energy Commissioner Judith Judson to Learn about
Clean Energy Economic Development Opportunities in 2017
THIS MORNING! Feb 1, 2017, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm EST
 Please join Commissioner Judith Judson, fellow chamber leaders and member businesses for an update on the state's 2017 clean energy priorities and the economic development opportunities for local chambers and their member businesses.
Dial in: (888) 392-4560
Code: 26765
Co-Hosted by:
Blackstone Valley Chamber, MA Department of Energy Resources, Amherst Area Chamber
Questions? Contact Daren Cheatham at
|
|
North Brookfield Savings Bank Hires John Downs as
Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer
 North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) is pleased to announce the recent hire of John Downs as the NBSB Business Center's Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer.
In his new position, Downs will be responsible for business customer outreach and the development of commercial loan relationships with NBSB.
He has worked in the banking industry for over 32 years, with the most recent position of Vice President/Commercial Lender at Berkshire Bank for the last three years. Downs also held the position of Vice President/Commercial Lender at Chicopee Savings Bank, and has held various positions in the lending and management departments at PeoplesBank.
"We're happy to have John on board, and know his expertise and experience in lending will be invaluable to the commercial lending team and our business customers," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President & CEO Donna Boulanger.
Downs looks forward to growing business relationships with NBSB. His main goal is continuing to develop the commercial loan portfolio with quality customers, using the responsive and competitive products and services the Bank offers.
"I am thrilled to be a part of a banking team that works so hard to care for and be involved in its communities," said North Brookfield Savings Bank Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer John Downs. "I look forward to taking care of the commercial loan customers of NBSB, and assisting them to help their businesses grow."
Downs, of Belchertown, MA, holds several degrees, including an Associate's in Business from Holyoke Community College, a Bachelor's in Finance and Economics from American International College of Springfield, MA and an MBA in Finance from Western New England College of Springfield.
"It's a pleasure to welcome John to the NBSB Business Center team," adds North Brookfield Savings Bank Senior Vice President/Senior Commercial Loan Officer Tony Piermarini. "He strengthens our team even more with his knowledge and experience and I am confident he will be instrumental in helping our existing and future business customers succeed."
To speak with John Downs about commercial loan opportunities, call 508-637-7501 or email jdowns@BankNBSB.com. For commercial loan and deposit information, contact the NBSB Business Center at 508-637-7500 or BusinessCenter@BankNBSB.com.
|
Explore Business & Nonprofit Partnerships with The Last Green Valley
in 2017!
 The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) is hard at work producing another all-new
, comprehensive adventure and recreation guide to our National Heritage Corridor. Explore! Outdoor, Indoor & Around Town Adventures in The Last Green Valley will feature even more places to hike, bike, paddle, swim, shop, tickle your taste buds, rest for the night, dally in a museum, enjoy farms open to the public, and engage in every other sort of adventure imaginable. Businesses and nonprofit organizations should contact TLGV now in order to be listed in the 2017 edition. The 25,000 printed copies are quickly gobbled up by residents and visitors to our regi
on!
Partnerships with TLGV include a listing in the printed Explore! Guide, a listing in the online directory, tireless promotion through social media, and the opportunity to host or lead a Walktober and/or Spring Outdoors adventure. Partnerships are a must for land trusts, historical societies, farms, restaurants, vineyards, accommodations, nonprofits, campgrounds, theaters, leisure activities, local shops and service businesses. Simply put, if you have something to be discovered, shared and enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, you need to be included in this fun-filled, content-packed publication. Contact The Last Green Valley at 860-774-3300 for all the details or email marcy@tlgv.org for answers to your questions.
The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is 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.
|
|
Small Office Space For Rent
212 Main Street, Sturbridge
Need to get things done in Sturbridge? Les Gardner has a small office available to rent within his space in the McCurdy Insurance Building at 212 Main Street, Sturbridge. The space measures approximately 12' x 12' or 150 square feet. This convenient work space includes internet access and a desk. If you are interested or have more questions, contact Les directly at 508-347-7177.
|
Country Bank Welcomes New Commercial Lender
 Country Bank is pleased to announce that Jessica McGarry has joined their Commercial Lending Division. McGarry, who resides in Sutton, brings with her 17 years of experience in the industry. Beginning as a part-time teller, she worked her way through the branch system for several years, then to the Commercial Credit Department, where she learned commercial lending from the ground up. Jessica has been a commercial lender in the Worcester market for the past four years, coming to Country Bank from Webster Five.
Jessica earned her Bachelor's Degree in Business from Nichols College, was a recipient of the Forty Under 40 designation in 2014 from Worcester Business Journal, and was a member of Leadership Worcester, Class of 2015-2016.
"As a person, I am serious and diligent when it comes to my work. I take great pride in making sure my customers are well taken care of, with the right products, a high level of service, and a lender that is both qualified and caring," states McGarry. "I live and work in Worcester County, so the success of the people and businesses here is something that I hold close to my heart."
"We are excited to have someone with Jessica's experience and knowledge of the Worcester area join our staff. She brings with her a commitment to the local community and a great foundation of customer relationships," stated Scott Pasquale, First Vice President of Commercial Lending.
Jessica is based in the Worcester Branch of Country Bank at 278 Park Ave and may be reached at jmcgarry@countrybank.com or at 413-277-2065.
About Country Bank
Country Bank is a full-service mutual community bank serving central and western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton and Worcester. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at
countrybank.com
.
|
The Last Green Valley is Seeking Spring Outdoors Walk Leaders!
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) is coordinating its second annual Spring Outdoors and is looking for walk and event leaders. Spring Outdoors launched in 2016 and was a great success. In 2017, Spring Outdoors will run from the Spring Equinox on March 20 until the Summer Solstice on June 21.
Similar to Walktober, nonprofits and businesses can benefit by hosting a walk or event that will connect people to their organization's lands, trails, waters, treasures, services and stories. Walktober was tremendously popular this past fall, drawing more than 64,000 people with almost 300 opportunities to enjoy all of our wonderful resources in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor's 35 towns. Walktober leaders are encouraged to take this new opportunity to reach more visitors through Spring Outdoors. Land trusts, conservation commissions, trails committees, farms, historical societies and small businesses can again highlight what makes each of them unique.
If you have not been a Spring Outdoors or Walktober leader before, now is the time to step up! TLGV Project Administrator Marcy Dawley (marcy@tlgv.org or 860-774-3300) is ready to help. There is only one requirement to offer a Spring Outdoors and Walktober activity - you, your organization or your business must be a TLGV member or partner. It's that easy and it's fun!
Spring Outdoors promises to grow just as Walktober has done, and it will be wonderful to experience many of these properties, trails, museums, camps, woods, waters and more in both the spring and fall!
TLGV will develop a web-based brochure that can be downloaded and printed listing all of the activities, plus all of the choices will be listed on TLGV's Facebook page and website events calendar.
Learn more about the National Heritage Corridor and Spring Outdoors at The Last Green Valley's website, www.thelastgreenvalley.org.
|
Local Author to Hold Writing Workshop
 Local author and Chamber member Ed Londergan will hold a creative writing and publishing workshop on Sunday, March 12 from 10-2:30 at the Salem Cross Inn in West Brookfield.
The workshop is open to people of all ages especially those that have a story to tell. The workshop is geared to anyone who wants to write and does not know where to start or those that have some writing experience but either haven't written anything for a while or are not sure what to do next.
The workshop will cover the entire writing and publishing process from how to develop ideas, story structure and creation of atmosphere/location, how to put together a chapter, character development, creating authentic dialogue, the flow of the book and how to hold readers interest. Also included are writing exercises and group discussion of common issues and problems like overcoming writer's block.
The how's and why's of publishing will also be covered from self-publishing to finding an agent, to using small publishing houses, to marketing including press releases and author events to increase book sales.
The cost is $65 and lunch is included. Registration is required. To register, email Ed at ed.londergan@gmail.com.
|
Cleanup Funds Available from The Last Green Valley
Thompson students spread mulch in a Thompson, CT park.
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) is once again looking for people who care about this beautiful place we call home. TLGV will provide funds to nonprofit organizations and municipal, regional, state or federal agencies that sponsor a 2017 land or river cleanup in the region. Last year, 1,559 volunteers from 35 groups removed more than 66,101 pounds of trash from our rivers, parks, and roadways!
TLGV will reimburse organizations up to $500 for expenses like publicity, cleanup supplies such as trash bags and work gloves, and food for volunteers. TLGV will also help publicize the event and work with each organization to recruit more volunteers.
Interested organizations should submit a letter to TLGV, on their organization's letterhead, at least four weeks before the proposed event. The letter should: include basic details about the cleanup - what, when, where, and who - plus contact information, including an email address; explain what you hope to accomplish; provide a budget detailing how you will use TLGV funds; let TLGV know who will be picking up and disposing of the trash (TLGV can't cover that cost); describe how youth - the future stewards of The Last Green Valley - will be involved in the cleanup; and include a plan for publicizing not just the event, but the results. Nonprofit organizations should also submit a copy of their 501(c) designation letter from the IRS.
TLGV reserves the right to approve or deny funds based upon the likelihood of project success and the availability of funds. Decisions will be made within two weeks of project submission. Funded organizations will be asked to sign a short agreement and to acknowledge TLGV's funding in all publicity materials. Funded organizations will also be asked to complete and return TLGV"s "Trash Tracker" form to compile region-wide results. For more information, contact LyAnn Graff at (860) 774-3300 or lyann@tlgv.org.
|
Country Bank Supports QVCDC with $50,000 Donation
PICTURED: Shelly Regin, Country Bank, Alexandria Martinez & Sheila Cuddy, QVCDC, and Deb Gagnon, Country Bank.
Country Bank announced that it donated $50,000 to the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation, to assist them in their commitment to economic development and helping small businesses grow and prosper in the Quaboag Hills Region. The QVCDC offers many great programs to help small businesses which include training programs such as computer courses, how to write a business plan or individual consulting in addition to offering small business loans.
"We're delighted to be able to support our local CDC and all of the work that Sheila and her team does to make Ware and the surrounding towns thrive," states Paul Scully, President and CEO of Country Bank.
To learn more about how the QVCDC might be able to assist your business, please visit:
qvcdc.org
|
Warm it up with some hot events!
|
Friday February 3rd stop by to create an entry to the Junior Duck Stamp
"Conservation through the Arts" Program at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield
Hitchcock Academy presents Pouring Medium Painting February 2, Friends & Family Fridays February 3, Tai Chi Seminar February 4, Write What You Love February 4. For more information about these and a variety of other classes visit us at
www.hitchcockacademy.org or call 413-245-9977.
Pouring medium is a new liquid acrylic medium that is very unique and can be used to create abstract and/or realistic paintings. In this class, you will learn about the many ways to use this new medium with acrylic paints. Join this fun class as we pour, paint and pour again. Open to beginners to intermediate level. Bring palette knives, plastic forks or other items that can be used to create patterns to this class. Time: 9:30-Noon Fee: $40 Instructor: Loretta Medeiros
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org for more details.
MA Duck Stamp drawing competition. Create and enter your own drawing guided by Marcia Beal
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org for more details.
Each three-hour seminar will include a variety of Tai Chi & Chi Kung. Some previous experience required. Time: 9 AM-Noon, Fee: $28 for 9-12 or $9 for 9:00-10:00 only. Instructor: David Masera
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org for more details.
Write What You Love, to look at how to celebrate a person, place or thing in fiction, nonfiction or poetry. What we love can seem easy to capture, but how do we write about it without using clichés, without assuming everyone knows why someone or something is so great....
Time: 12:30-5:00 Fee: $55 Instructor: Suzanne Strempek-Shea, local author of numerous books
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org
|
Jacob Edwards Library/Krosslink Entrepreneur Greenhouse
Invites you to
 CASE STUDY & EXPERT SPEAKER SESSION
Thursday, February 02, 2017
6:00 - 7:30 P.M.
SPEAKER:
JUDY FERGUSON, OWNER
VILLAGE PHOTO & PORTRAIT STUDIO
AGENDA:
6:00-6:30pm SPEAKER
6:30-7:00pm Q&A SESSION
7:00-7:30pm NETWORKING
Jacob Edwards Library, 236 Main Street, Southbridge
508-764-5426
KROSSLINK ENTREPRENEUR GREENHOUSE
|
Change Your Habitudes, Change Your Life Workshop!
Rita Schiano's Upcoming Speaking Engagements
Thursday, February 2, 7:00 p.m. Tewksbury, MA
Seven Steps to Achieving Your New Year's Resolutions
Did you know that each year, more than 158 million Americans make a resolution, but only 12 million achieve their goal. 146 million people -- 92% of those who make resolutions -- quit.. give up... fail. JOIN ME at the Tewksbury Public Library to learn how you can become one of the 8% by following my 7 simple steps! Free event!
Tuesday, February 14, 2:00 p.m. Suffield, CT
Living a Less Stressed , More Flourishing Life
An educating and entertaining exploration of the choices that determine our direction, and the decisions that ultimately dictate our destiny. The way stress impacts us does not necessarily have to be negative. We have a capacity for resilience, behaviors, thoughts, skills, and actions that can be learned and developed in anyone. Sponsored by the Kent Public Library. To be held at the Suffield Senior Center, 145 Bridge St, Suffield, CT 06078, USA
See more at:
|
Workforce Central Career Center is hosting a JOB DAY!
Friday, Feb. 3, 2017 from 1-3PM
at the career center, 5 Optical Drive, Suite 200, Southbridge, MA 01550
Participating companies: Gentex (Dudley), Rite Aid Distribution Center (Dayville CT), and Advantage Resourcing (Putnam CT)
Jobs include: Machine Operators, Operational Excellence Manager, Order Selector, Loader, Stocker, Molding and Coating Operators, Stock Room Clerk, Shipping, Customer Returns Clerk, and Assembly, plus others!
Please call to register at 508-765-6430.
|
Treat your sweetie to the Valentine's Day Fireplace Feast on February 14!
Experience Fireplace Feast in February!
February 3, 5, 10, 14 & 17
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 Fireplace Feast is just one of our many dining events that provides an authentic colonial experience. At Salem Cross Inn, we capture the history and culture of 1700's America. Salem Cross Inn's dining events, excellent cuisine, and atmosphere have been featured on Food Network's "The Best Of," WCVB TV5 Boston's "Chronicle" and chosen as the "Hidden Jewel" by Boston's Phantom Gourmet and WGBY.
Visit the link for tickets and all the details.
|
Tastefully Ted. at The Publick House
Friday, February, 3 2017, 7:00-10:00pm
Come join us for an evening of tasty appetizers, decadent desserts and music. This year the new Cedar Street Café will be representing Table 3 with something sure to please a crowd. Join Table 3, and many others from the Sturbridge area restaurant community, as we have a sweet time raising funds to benefit the Tantasqua Education Foundation. See you there!
|
Midwinter Mischief at OSV
Saturday, February 4 to Sunday, February 5
Saturday, February 11 to Sunday, February 12
Saturday, February 18 to Sunday, February 19
This February, Old Sturbridge Village is introducing an interactive and intimate way of experiencing the Village.
Midwinter Mischief combines theatrical storytelling, historical interpretation and period dining to offer guests a daytime winter adventure...
Imagine the tale of a Yankee peddler passing through the village who decides to settle down at the Bullard Tavern on a cold winter's night. There the peddler spends every dollar he has earned on food and drink, racking up a tab far beyond his means. After being confronted over his debt, the peddler fills up his cup with ashes from the hearth and promises the tavern owner that he will return with a cup overflowing of gold. From the Bullard Tavern, costumed storytellers, artisans and villagers will entice tavern guests to wander deep into the village where they will find evidence of the peddler's adventures and schemes.
Admission to a
Midwinter Mischief includes the one-hour and 45-minute outdoor/indoor experience and a period-inspired lunch in the Village's Bullard Tavern where guests can enjoy live music, demonstrations, and a cash bar featuring hot beverages and 1830s-inspired libations. Each day, the first experience departs the Bullard Tavern at 9:30 am and the last at 3:00 pm, with experiences beginning every 15 minutes. The Bullard Tap Room opens at 9:00 am where guests can purchase hot and cold beverages and breakfast pastries. At 11:00 am the Bullard Great Room opens for the inclusive 19th-century inspired lunch and a cash bar.
Midwinter Mischief was written and directed by P.J. Griffith.
Visit this link for tickets and more important information about this event.
January 2- February 17: Museum is Open Weekends Only from 9:30am to 4:00pm
From January 1 - February 19, the Museum Store is open Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 am-4:30 pm. No admission is required.
|
WINTERFEST AT RAPSCALLION
FEBRUARY 4, NOON TO 10PM
Rapscallion's annual Winterfest event will feature their 2017 Winterfest ale, food
and live music from bluesman Big Jon Short and bluegrass band Livestock.
|
Good Acoustics: A Tribute to Simon & Garfunkel/James Taylor
February 4, Doors open at 6:30pm
Come along and listen to the songs of James Taylor and Simon and Garfunkel faithfully recreated by Good Acoustics. These are the songs that defined more than three decades of chart topping hits that bring you back to simpler times in the relaxing and beautiful atmosphere of The Barn at Wight Farm. This show is comprised of a rock solid trio that have been performing all over the east coast for over 30 years. This show will simply amaze you at the harmony displayed by these very talented musicians.
Before the concert,
The Barn will provide an optional buffet for $19.95. Doors open at 6:30pm. Tickets for this special evening of music are only $20 (show only) and can be purchased through Eventbrite. Please call Danielle Green at 774-241-8450 for questions or dinner reservations.
|
February 4
Fennario (Grateful Dead Tribute) at The Cannery
|
Seminar: Developing a Customer Service Culture
February 7, 8:30am to 10:00am
Worcester Regional Chamber
Richard B. Kennedy Conference Room
446 Main Street, Suite 200
Worcester, MA 01608
Join us for this informational seminar and find out firsthand how to develop great customer service. Hear from area business on just how they've developed a great customer service culture within their respective businesses.
Attend this interactive session to explore issues such as:
* What it takes to develop a culture of customer service
* How technology affects service and the experience
* Why the employee and the customer experience is important
* Best practices when expectations are missed
Moderator & Speaker:
Michael Flippin, Sandler Training / SaleFish, LLC
Panel Participants:
Jessica Bettencourt, President Klem's
Michael Covino, Owner Niche Hospitality & Entertainment
Jamie Adams, Regional Market Manager, Worcester Region, TD Bank
Free for Chamber members, $25 for non-members.
Seating is limited. Pre-registration is required.
Special thanks to TD Bank for sponsoring the 2017 Chamber Seminar Series.
|
RAD Self Defense Training Program for Women
at Hitchcock Academy
Stop Abuse Today, a division of the Tri-Town Domestic Violence Task Force is holding a
RAD training for women on the evenings of
Feb 7, 14 (Tues) & Feb 17 (Fri).
Each class starts at 7PM at Hitchcock Academy, Brimfield, MA.
Funding from Stop Abuse Today has made this class for women available free of charge.
Registration is required.
Dates: Tues & Fri, Feb 7, 14, and 17
Instructor: Officer Patrick Swaine.
***Space is limited so please call 413 668-6965***
|
Woman In Business Annual Networking Luncheon
February 8, Oliver Wight Tavern at OSV
Bring business cards and promotional materials about your company and
get ready to share who you are and what you do with other members.
WIB's annual Networking Luncheon - a group favorite - gives each luncheon participant 5 minutes to share information about their company. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and learn about new businesses!
The WIB Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, February 8 at 11:45am - 1:30pm
at the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village.
$20 for WIB Members, $25 for Non-members.
New Members welcome!
To learn more about WIB and to register for our Networking Luncheon, visit our web site at:
www.wibsturbridge.org
|
Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Thursday Evenings, 7:00-8:15pm
Southbridge Savings Bank Community Room
200 Charlton Road, Sturbridge
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.
|
The Cover of Life
Gateway Players, Gateway Player Theatre, 111 Main Street, Southbridge
Gateway Players Theatre presents "The Cover of Life", by R.T. Robinson. Show dates are February 10, 11, 17, 18 and 19. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30pm, the Sunday matinee is at 2pm. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for under 18 and over 60. Tickets are available at the box office by calling 508-764-4531 and will be available soon online at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2759888.
Directed by Lou-Ellen Corkum and produced by Kathi Grenier. The cast includes: Lynn Boucher, Sydney Campbell, Melissa Earls, Caitlyn Gaughan, Angela Grove and Gwen O'Brien. Presented by permission through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.
Gateway Players is thrilled to kick off season 42 with this sweetly funny, nost
algic play. Be sure to get your tickets early.
Synopsis:
Tood, Weetsie, and Sybill are brides in rural Louisiana in 1943. Each married a Cliffert brother. The men are off to war and a local news story about these young wives keeping the home fires burning intrigues Henry Luce. He decides that they belong on the cover Life Magazine and assigns Kate Miller to the story. She has been covering the war in Europe and, though she views doing a "women's piece" as a career set back, she accepts because it will be her first cover story. Kate spends a week with the Cliffert women and her haughty urban attitude gives way to sympathy as she begins to understand them while coming face to face with her own powerlessness in a man's world. Filled with charm and fun, The Cover of Life is a deeply affecting story about the struggle for self worth.
|
Publick House Cooks for Community Organizations
Help us give back to the community by joining us for our monthly feasts to raise money for local organizations. Sponsored organization will split a minimum of $4.00 from every dinner served!
February 13
Dudley PTO
Hitchcock Academy
HAM DINNER
CASH DONATION
Adults $14 / Children $5
(4-12 yrs.)
ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET!
Held in Paige Hall or under the Tent!
Two Seating Times
SEATING ONE: 4:30pm-6:15pm
SEATING TWO: 6:30pm-7:30pm
Casual Dining * Open Seating * No Reservations
All Feasts include...
Tossed Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Dinner Rolls, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks & Iced Water
|
February 15, 11:30am to 12:30pm
Tri-Community YMCA, 43 Everett Street, Southbridge
Here at the Tri-Community Y, seniors have a chance to keep active and grow in spirit, mind
and body. Make new friends and enjoy a relaxed luncheon with others who share similar life experiences.
Guest Speaker: Dina Sexton, from the YMCA, to discuss the benefits of "Chair Yoga"
Menu: Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Finger Sandwiches and Salad
Y Members are Free and Prospective Members $2.00.
|
Tri-Community Exchange Club 8th Annual Chowder Fest
February 19
The 8th Annual Chowder Fest is being held by the Tri-Community Exchange Club on February 19 from 12-3 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel, 366 Main Street, Sturbridge.
The proceeds are going to assist needy families in the Tri-Community Area.
You can purchase tickets at Penney's Appliance, Route 20 Sturbridge and at Southbridge Savings Bank Sturbridge Branch.
|
TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure
Choo-Choo-Choose the Brimfield Trolley Trail
Sunday, February 19th, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm
Meet at the Brimfield Trail Association trail head, parking lot on Route 20., Brimfield, MA
Explore Brimfield's Trolley Trail in The Last Green Valley! This section of the Titanic Rail Trail is a scenic old rail bed. Enjoy nature & hear about flood control as we walk this former trolley line that ran from Springfield to Sturbridge!
Snacks, Acorn Adventure stickers and lots of FUN always included!
Dress for the weather, and bring a friend!
FREE! All ages welcome.
Learn more about Brimfield Trail Association by viewing their brochure/map-> Brimfield-Trail-Map
Explore, visit, engage & connect with the things that make our National Heritage Corridor special, like our trails, wildlife & fresh air!
Acorn Adventures are sponsored byPutnam Bank
|
Click on the image to browse our catalog of Coggno training courses!
|
We Welcome Interesting Goodies for our Welcome Baskets!
 The Chamber has teamed up with the Center of Hope to create gift baskets to welcome new members to the Chamber of Central Mass South. The Chamber presents our new members with gift baskets that will not only have a monetary value but also to give the recipient an opportunity to learn more about other Chamber members and their services. These baskets make a terrific first impression and are a great way to introduce your business to new prospects. Can you help us fill these baskets with interesting goodies?
We are always seeking interesting, practical items to include in our welcome baskets. We welcome your contributions of items like modest gift certificates, discount coupons, items with your company's logo like piggy banks, thumb drives and coffee mugs, free trial items, small items your company manufactures or whatever else might promote your company and be a value to our new members. We are looking to assemble about a dozen baskets at a time so that time sensitive material will not be out of date when received. If you would like to donate items for this program, please drop them off at the Chamber office or give us a call to arrange pick up your donated items. Contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or e-mail alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org if you have any questions or to arrange a pickup. Thank you for your contributions!
|
Important Dates to Save!
February 4: Winterfest at Rapscallion
February 7: Fun at Five at Salem Cross Inn with North Brookfield Savings Bank
February 7, 14 & 17: RAD Defense Training at Hitchcock Academy
February 8: Woman in Business Networking Luncheon
February 19:
Chowderfest at Sturbridge Host Hotel
February 28: Brown Bag Seminar: How to Stage Your Home For Sale
March 23:
Lunch with Governor Baker
at Southbridge Hotel
|
VISIT US ONLINE FOR LOCAL EVENTS AND MORE
www.cmschamber.org
|
|
|
| |
|
