| |
|
|
|
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 March and CROSSROADS NEWS!
Winter is winding down which means Spring and Maple Days are almost here! We are networking at Sturbridge Seafood this month. Attend for a chance to win tickets to Opening Day at Fenway! We're also hosting a seminar on engaging your legislator this month and there is still space to join us for Lunch with the Governor on March 23rd.
Got news? Thank you for emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in Crossroads! Keep 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! |
|
NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Fun at Five!
Monday, March 6 at 5:00pm
Sturbridge Seafood
376 Main Street (Route 20), Sturbridge, 508-347-2600
Join us for networking and more at
Sturbridge Seafood!
Sturbridge Seafood offers the freshest seafood
and meat dishes served in creative and interesting ways. Join us in March as we get together for networking, delicious appetizers, cool drinks, and awesome drawing prizes!
Distinctions for Chef Ken and Sturbridge Seafood
Sturbridge Seafood's Chef Ken Yukimura
was a Winner of the Peoples' Choice Award at Worcester's Best Chef in 2016 and again in 2017 and a Three-Time 1st Place Winner of Chowder Fest in Sturbridge.
Sturbridge Seafood offers daily lunch specials from their 'On The Fly' Express Service. Our guests will also get an update on Sturbridge Porter House, Chef Ken's new venture, set to open soon!
You could win TWO Tickets to
OPENING DAY AT FENWAY PARK
Red Sox vs Pirates
Monday, April 3rd
Game time 2:05pm
courtesy of our sponsor, bankHometown!
Cost:
$10 for registered Members, $15 at the door or $20 for non-Members.
RSVP by phone at 508-347-2761
or email info@cmschamber.org
We look forward to seeing you at Fun at Five!
Thank you to our
March Fun at Five sponsor!
Did you know...?
bankHometown has been serving local communities for more than 125 years.
They are dedicated to offering quality products with superior customer service
that will meet the needs of their customers.
331 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA
508-347-3312
|
|
Brown Bag Seminar
How To Engage
Your Legislator
with Chamber Chair & Executive Vice President/COO
The Center of Hope Foundation: Cindy Howard
Tuesday, March 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 March 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!
If you don't know who your Legislators are or if you are a veteran "political junkie" this session will be helpful to you. We will present a short overview about the legislative process in Massachusetts and how to get to know your legislator, while they learn about what is important to you.
"It's all about relationships" and we will discuss how to create that connection.
More About Cindy Howard
Chamber Chair
Executive Vice President/COO The Center of Hope Foundation
Cindy is the Director of Administrative and Arc Services for the Center of Hope Foundation, Inc. She has a B.S. degree in Education and a graduate degree in Psychology, and taught in local school systems for several years before beginning work at the Center of Hope in 1988. Her work includes being the legislative liaison at the state and federal levels for the 64 town wide area that our local Arc covers, as well as many other public relations and administrative duties.
|
Sturbridge Business Breakfasts
March 21 & 28
This March the Town of Sturbridge, in collaboration with Idea Agency, will be hosting a Sturbridge Business Breakfast at The Barn at Wight Farm. Here's an opportunity to network and meet with Town Officials, learn how the business community can pull together and benefit by unifying under the Sturbridge brand with Christine Tieri, learn about Discover Central Mass with Christina Andreoli, hear what's the latest business news and voice your opinions directly to Town leadership.
We have broken the breakfast up into two sessions. The first is for businesses who cater to tourists or visitors (Hotels, Restaurants, Merchants, etc.). The second session will be for professional and industrial businesses in Sturbridge. The breakfasts are open to any business owners or manager in Sturbridge, all are welcome. Coffee and pastries will be served courtesy of Table 3.
The sessions will be from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 21st for Hospitality Businesses and from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 28th for Professional and Industrial Businesses. These events are free to all.
If you would like to participate, please RSVP with Kevin Filchak either by email or by phone (774-318-8032). The attached flyer has all of the necessary details. Please feel free to forward this flyer to others you think might be interested in participating.
|
|
|
Remember...
MEMBER TO MEMBER!
Discounts from Members... for Members!
We THANK YOU for KEEPING IT LOCAL!
|
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.
|
Welcome New Chamber Member!
We are very proud to introduce our newest Member!
Second Chance Animal Shelter
Non-Profit Animal Shelter and Wellness Center.
LOOKING FOR A CHAMBER MEMBER?
|
Marsha Fearing, M.D., Joins Harrington Physician Services
Pediatrics Department
 Harrington Physician Services (HPS) welcomes Marsha Fearing, M.D., M.P.H., to its pediatric practice in Southbridge.
Dr. Fearing is board-certified in pediatrics and medical genetics and has more than 15 years of experience caring for newborns through adolescents. She will join Dr. Diana Rabkina and Dr. Cynthia Wilson-Grillo in the HPS pediatrics department, located at 100 South Street, Suite 102.
Patients interested in scheduling an appointment can call 508-765-7860.
Dr. Fearing most recently practiced at the Department of Pediatrics at Northern Navajo Medical Center in Shiprock, NM. Prior to that, she was a pediatric physician with Barton Associates in Peabody, MA.
"We are happy to have Dr. Fearing join our pediatric team," said Kristin Morales-Lemieux, chief operating officer for HPS. "She is a great fit to our medical staff and is very focused on the complete care of children of all ages."
Dr. Fearing received her medical degree from the Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, LA, where she completed her pediatric residency. She also completed a clinical genetics fellowship at Children's Hospital Boston. She was a member of the United States Army Medical Service Corps Officer in the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, KY.
Her professional affiliations include the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Harvard Veterans Alumni Organization.
|
Country Bank Offers Assistance For Heating in North Brookfield
During the winter months many of us take for granted that our homes will be a warm haven against the cold weather outside. For some, that comfort is not a reality. Country Bank is doing their part to help their neighbors in need by supporting Hearts for Heat in North Brookfield, with a donation of $2,500.00. Hearts for Heat is a community-based charitable organization dedicated to providing assistance for heat to qualified residents of North Brookfield. Since 2013, Country Bank has donated $11,000.00 to this local chapter.
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
.
|
Southbridge Savings Bank Hires Brian Loveless
as Senior Vice President & CFO
Southbridge Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Brian Loveless has joined the organization as the Bank's Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer.
A resident of Avon, Connecticut, Loveless has more than 20 years of experience in corporate and CFO roles as well as business line management at financial institutions and corporations across the United States. Prior to joining the team at Southbridge Savings Bank, Loveless's most recent position was Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer at Passumpsic Savings Bank in St. Johnsbury, Vermont.
In his new role at SSB, Loveless will be responsible for aligning financial goals and reporting with the Bank's strategic plan to assure safe and sound risk management practices for the financial well-being of the Bank. He will be responsible for all corporate finance functions and interface with internal and external audit firms and play an active role in analyzing the Bank's profitability, as well as defining cost drivers and pricing. Loveless will be a key member of the senior management team, reporting directly to the President.
"Brian's vast knowledge and experience will provide an insightful perspective in all areas of corporate finance and banking," said Southbridge Savings Bank President Todd M. Tallman. "His expertise will help lead us forward in our recent merger with SpencerBANK while we remain focused on the financial fundamentals that have made us successful through the years. We believe his expansive experience and myriad of accomplishments will make Brian an invaluable addition to our team."
"It is a tremendous opportunity to join Southbridge Savings Bank at such an exciting time," said Loveless. "I'm eager to work with the executive team to help scale the bank for long-term financial and operational success."
About Southbridge Savings Bank:
Southbridge Savings Bank currently has 9 full-service branches throughout Central Massachusetts. Deposits are insured in full by a combination of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Depositors Insurance Fund. Southbridge Savings Bank and SpencerBANK are both wholly owned subsidiaries of SSB Community Bancorp, MHC.For more information log onto their website,
southbridgesavingsbank.com, visit them on
facebook.com/southbridgesavings or call toll free 800-939-9103.
|
Paula Poundstone Fundraiser in Southbridge Brings Awareness
for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Recovery
In just a few weeks, Harrington HealthCare System will welcome comedian Paula Poundstone to Southbridge. Paula Poundstone, a legendary comedian featured on NPR's
"Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me," will perform an exclusive comedy show on Saturday, April 1 at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center.
But the evening won't just be about laughter - it is Harrington's major fund raiser for 2017, with partial proceeds benefitting recovery services for the community, and it's that mission that is getting the attention of the general public.
Substance use disorder is a health crisis that's gripping headlines and taking young lives around the nation and south central Massachusetts is no exception.
Harrington HealthCare has dedicated the last several years to creating better access for patients who need treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. The organization's behavioral health initiative is a widespread, comprehensive, multi-year plan to offer what is most needed to the community - care that is local, accessible and safe.
"This isn't just about hiring one more psychiatrist or opening one more building," said Ed Moore, President and CEO of Harrington HealthCare. "It's giving people second chances. It's treating every aspect of a person who needs help. We are building a pathway to recovery."
While behavioral health at Harrington has been in place for many years, the urgency to do more began in 2014 when Harrington received a $3.4 million grant from the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC).
Almost immediately, the health care system created a Patient Navigation Program, which put licensed mental health clinicians and specialists in critical patient care areas, including primary care offices and emergency care centers. These individuals identify "at-risk" patients, connecting them with appropriate behavioral health services on the spot and helping them overcome barriers to care.
A portion of the HPC grant also allowed Harrington to begin construction of a 16-bed inpatient co-occurring disorders unit (CDU) in Webster. One of very few in the entire state, the CDU can treat adults with both mental health and substance use disorders simultaneously - in a dedicated, patient-centric model that includes inpatient treatment and outpatient support.
Webster now also houses second Partial Hospitalization Program, the first being on its Southbridge campus. These programs are a step down from inpatient care and can provide the patient with a structured plan to continue their journey through recovery. Coupled with intensive outpatient day programs, partnerships with the Southbridge Police Department CARE program and a variety of counseling services, Harrington has responded to the need to treat the entire patient, from initial diagnosis to their transition back into the community.
Paula Poundstone's show on April 1 is a positive and fun way for individuals to support a need that has gotten bigger than most communities.
|
Hank Phillippi Ryan to be Guest Speaker at Woman in Business
Motivational Gathering in May
 Woman In Business, Inc., a 501c(3) that supports women by fostering networking, sharing information and experiences, and providing educational opportunities, will be hosting its annual Motivational Gathering on May 10 with Guest Speaker Hank Phillippi Ryan, noted author and on-air investigative reporter. Doors at Old Sturbridge Village will open at 5:00pm for networking with cash bar and appetizers. The evening will also include a book signing for Hank's new book, "Say No More." The cost is $15 for WIB Members and $20 for Non-members. Pre-registration is recommended as seating is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at www.wibsturbridge.org or at the door the evening of the event.
How does an Emmy winning reporter become a best-selling author of fast-paced murder mysteries? And how does a just-the-facts journalist add mystery fiction to her resume? How does she juggle being a reporter, author, wife, and grandmother, and navigate making a mid-life career change? In her talk, "An Inside Look at Mysteries, Television, and the Mysteries of Television," Hank Phillippi Ryan shares all.
Hank will talk about the span of her career from radio reporter in 1971 to Rolling Stone Magazine to the US Senate to undercover investigations at Boston's Channel 7, and the obstacles, rewards, and challenges of being a newbie reporter as well as an experienced senior reporter, mentoring, and taking risks. Learn how she ended up where she is at 67, and what it takes to make a career change at mid-life.
This event is Hosted by Woman In Business and Sponsored by Christopher Heights of Webster, Webster First Federal Credit Union, Spiewak Consultants and Your Hometown Shopper.
HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN is the on-air investigative reporter for Boston's WHDH-TV, winning 33 EMMYs and dozens more journalism honors. The bestselling author of nine mysteries, Ryan's also an award-winner in her second profession-with five Agathas, two Anthonys, two Macavitys, the Daphne, and Mary Higgins Clark Award. Critics call her "superb." Her novels have been named Library Journal's Best of 2014 and 2015 - Ryan's newest novel SAY NO MORE is a Library Journal Best of 2016 and a Mary Higgins Clark and Agatha Award nominee. Hank is a founder of MWA University and 2013 president of National Sisters in Crime.
Woman in Business, Inc. (WIB) represents primarily women in the workforce in the south central MA area, women (and men) are welcome to join the organization, regardless of their employment status or residence. WIB holds monthly luncheon programs, workshops, seminars, and other learning and networking opportunities throughout the year. For additional information visit www.wibsturbridge.org.
Event: Annual Motivational Gathering with Hank Phillippi Ryan
Date: May 10, 2017
Time: 5pm
Venue: Old Sturbridge Village (OWT: Grecian Room)
Ticket Prices: $15 for WIB Members; $20 for Non-members. Seating is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at www.wibsturbridge.org
Photo Credit - Iden Ford
|
SpencerBANK Donates to YWCA of Central MA to Benefit
Girls CHOICE Program
Pictured here: (from left) Linda Cavaioli, YWCA of Central Massachusetts Executive Director
and
K. Michael Robbins,
SpencerBANK President & CEO
SpencerBANK is pleased to announce its recent donation of $2,500 to the YWCA of Central Massachusetts to benefit the Girls CHOICE Program.
The Girls CHOICE program (an acronym that stands for Choosing Hope, Opportunity, and Independence through Career and Education) provides leadership training and service learning through an intensive, six-year program of mentoring and wrap-around support for at-risk girls. This donation will help support weekly programming held for 34 weeks throughout the academic year for middle and high school girls.
"We are proud to support such an influential program as Girls CHOICE," said President and CEO of SpencerBANK K. Michael Robbins. "The positive impact this program brings is invaluable."
The Girls CHOICE program provides girls with access to a network of services including: mentoring, violence reduction and women's empowerment programming, academic support, leadership development, and civic engagement. Girls CHOICE uses a blended curriculum of interactive, research- and evidence-based strategies, including Girls Circle and Safe Dates.
For more information on the YWCA of Central Massachusetts, please visit: www.ywcacentralmass.org, and for more information on Girls CHOICE, please visit: www.ywcacentralmass.org/support/girls-choice.
About SpencerBANK:
Founded in 1871, SpencerBANK is an independent, mutual savings bank serving the residents, businesses, and communities of central Massachusetts from offices in Spencer, Leicester, Rutland, Warren, and Worcester. Deposits are insured in full by a combination of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Depositors Insurance Fund. The Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Equal Housing Lender, and SBA Preferred Lender. SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank are both wholly owned subsidiaries of SSB Community Bancorp, MHC. For more information, visit
online, on
Facebook or call 800-547-2885.
|
It's About Time (Management, That Is)
H. Jackson Brown, Jr. wrote, "Don't say you don't have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo DaVinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein."
Time management, in a nutshell, is how we get things done. When you develop good time management skills you are in control of your time, your life, and your stress level. So, if you feel the need to be more organized, more productive, start by considering the following:
1)
Meet your Time Bandits.
Do you set out to check your e-mail, or your Facebook page updates, or your favorite Internet news site, and suddenly find that ninety minutes has flown by? Do you set out to play fifteen minutes of your latest online game "just to clear my mind" and suddenly three hours has passed you by? These Time Bandits are insidious time-wasters that steal time we could be using much more productively.
2)
Establish routines and stick to them as much as possible.
While unexpected interruptions or crises will arise, you will be more productive if you have a plan of action to follow.
3)
Set time limits for tasks.
Reading and answering e-mail can consume a large portion of your day if you are not mindful. Set a time limit of one hour a day for this task and stick to it. If checking e-mail is part of your work routine, plan no more than 4 to 6, ten-minute intervals each day.
Making these simple, small changes can help lower your stress. For more ways to live a flourishing life, visit my web site:
www.ritaschiano.com.
Embrace joy. Be mindful. Live a flourishing Life.
Rita
|
SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank Employees Collaborate
to Support Power of One Campaign
Pictured here (from left): Jennifer Anderson, Deborah Decoste, Jennifer Wilson, Lisa Swift, Sheryle Gaudette, Njeri Njoroge, Paul St. Onge, Pamela Ferrara, Tom Langmeyer, Jaime Salerno, Kyle Hill, and Lori Kelly.
SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank employees recently teamed up by holding another Denim Day fundraising event. Employees collected $750 which was donated to the Power of One Campaign benefiting Harrington Recovery Services, a behavioral health initiative of Harrington Hospital.
Bank employees were given the opportunity to wear jeans to work on Friday, January 27 in exchange for a donation to support the Power of One Campaign. Donations made to this campaign will benefit Harrington Hospital's Recovery Services at Webster and will allow individuals suffering from mental health and substance use disorders access to the treatment they need.
"Once again, we are pleased to have joined forces for such an important cause," said President and CEO of SpencerBANK K. Michael Robbins. "I am proud of our employees for coming together to help raise awareness in support of the Power of One Campaign."
The Harrington Recovery Services program is a comprehensive continuum of care-from a 16-bed inpatient co-occurring diagnosis unit to individualized outpatient therapy. The facility will be the first inpatient unit in central and western Massachusetts to offer treatment for patients with both psychiatric and substance use disorders. For more information on the Power of One Campaign, please visit www.power-of-one.org.
About SpencerBANK:
Founded in 1871, SpencerBANK is an independent, mutual savings bank serving the residents, businesses, and communities of central Massachusetts from offices in Spencer, Leicester, Rutland, Warren, and Worcester. Deposits are insured in full by a combination of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Depositors Insurance Fund. The Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Equal Housing Lender, and SBA Preferred Lender. SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank are both wholly owned subsidiaries of SSB Community Bancorp, MHC. For more information, visit
online, on
Facebook or call 800-547-2885.
About Southbridge Savings Bank:
Southbridge Savings Bank currently has 9 full-service branches throughout Central Massachusetts. Deposits are insured in full by a combination of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Depositors Insurance Fund. Southbridge Savings Bank and SpencerBANK are both wholly owned subsidiaries of SSB Community Bancorp, MHC. For more information, log onto their
website, visit them on facebook.com/southbridgesavings or call toll free 800-939-9103.
|
Tammy Abel of Three Rivers is NBSB's January Hat Contest Winner
Tammy Abel
(right), North Brookfield Savings Bank's January Hat Winner,
with Janel Holmes (left), Palmer Universal Supervisor.
The month of new beginnings was extra special for one lucky Three Rivers resident. Tammy Abel began her 2017 as the winner of the January North Brookfield Savings Bank Hat Contest and of a $100 gift certificate.
Each month, anyone spotted wearing an NBSB hat in the community by a Bank representative is entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift certificate to a local establishment. Abel, who was spotted wearing her NBSB hat in Palmer by Universal Supervisor Janel Holmes, was later awarded a $100 gift certificate to The Steaming Tender Restaurant in Palmer, MA.
About North Brookfield Savings Bank
North Brookfield Savings Bank is a mutual savings bank with full-service branches in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Palmer, and 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 in which 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
NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
|
Southbridge Savings Bank Supports Tri-Community Exchange Club
with Donation
Pictured (L to R):
Tri-Community Exchange Club Member
David Cantwell, Southbridge Savings Bank President and CEO Todd Tallman,
Tri-Community Exchange Club Member
Brenda Lecaire, SSB Branch Manager and Tri-Community Exchange President Sheri Bibinski, Tri-Community Exchange Secretary Russell Penney, SSB VP and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee Ron Cooper.
Southbridge Savings Bank's Charitable Donations Committee is proud to announce the donation of $2,500 to the Tri-Community Exchange Club to support the recognition of local residents through several of the Club's programs.
The Tri-Community Exchange Club offers support to the community through a number of services. The Southbridge Savings Bank donation will benefit the ACE Program (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence), the Young Citizenship Award and services that provide meals to the needy during the holidays.
"The Charitable Donations Committee (CDC) is pleased to be able to assist the efforts of the Tri-Community Exchange Club," said SSB Vice President and Chairman of the CDC Ron Cooper. "This extraordinary program of services offers support and recognition to our community members, and we're proud to support such an initiative."
For more information about the Tri-Community Exchange Club, visit them on Facebook or call 508-347-3226.
|
|
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.
|
Forward March into Spring!
|
Hitchcock Happenings
This dog training basics class is for canines of all ages (puppies welcome) and provides positive training methods, good management practices, and problem-solving strategies. The first week is mandatory, and dogs do not attend. Vaccinations must be up-to-date. (6 classes)
Time
: 6:30-7:30 PM; Fee: $130 per dog; Instructor: Laurie Merritt, M. Ed, Certified Dog Trainer
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org for more details.
Take some time just for YOU to breathe, stretch, strengthen, balance and relax. While this is not a fitness-type Yoga, classes are designed to help you reduce stress, build strength, and feel more calm and balanced. No experience necessary, but also great for those continuing their Yoga practice. Bring a mat, blanket, water, and blocks if you have them. (6 classes)
Time
: 7-8:15 PM; Fee: $60 Instructor: Sharon Palmer, M.Ed., Certified Kripalu Yoga Teacher;
www.AllCanDoYoga.com
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org for more details.
Learn more by visiting our website
at www.hitchcockacademy.org for more details.
Enjoy a Pizza dinner and then learn different rhythms and jam out with Drum Instructor Time Kane. Time: 6-7:30; Fee: $6 per person, $30 max per household; Instructor: Time Kane.
Registrations required, space is limited.
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 (1 class) 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.
|
International Speech Contest
Thursday, March 2, 7:00 - 8:15pm
Southbridge Savings Bank Conference Room, 200 Charlton Rd, Sturbridge
Village Toastmasters of Sturbridge hosts its annual International Speech Contest.
Speech contests are a Toastmasters tradition. Each year over 30,000 contestants in over 116 countries compete in the Toastmasters International Speech Contest, making it the world's largest speech contest.
This year's contest will feature two-time speech contest winner Steven Hall of Sturbridge. He plans to deliver a speech entitled "Words of Discouragement," which explores the dispiriting noise that one can hear while following their dreams.
Visitors and guests are always welcome at Village Toastmasters meetings and contests.
|
Jacob Edwards Library/Krosslink Entrepreneur Greenhouse
Invites you to present at the
Bar-Stool Pitch Sessions
Thursday, March 02, 2017
6:00 - 7:30 P.M.
Networking and Refreshments from 7:00-7:30.
Talk about your business idea in a short pitch session and garner feedback from your fellow entrepreneurs!
Sessions will be moderated by Elvis Dyer.
Format for your pitch should be:
- A quick 60 second introduction to let the group know who you are and what your background is.
- A no more than 2 minute talk about what your business idea is and why you are excited about it (you need to be able to explain why you are passionate about your idea).
- A no more than 1 minute talk about what is stopping you from executing your idea (pick the most important one that is stopping you or preventing you from jumpstarting what you want to do).
- Keep your pitch informal and genuine. We want you to be honest and candid so that the mentors and attendees can provide the right feedback/suggestions/recommendations. No Powerpoint presentations please, just informal discussions!
- Thank you for agreeing to participate!
Jacob Edwards Library, 236 Main Street, Southbridge
508-764-5426
KROSSLINK ENTREPRENEUR GREENHOUSE
|
Job Day at Workforce Central Career Center
FRIDAY, MARCH 3, 2017, 1-3:00 PM
6 Companies Participating:
IPG Photonics, Oxford
Schott No. America, Southbridge
Venture Community Services, Sturbridge
FedEx Ground, Willington Ct
CoWorx Staffing, Sturbridge
Snapchef, Worcester
PLEASE CALL TO REGISTER 508-765-6430
Bring resume and dress properly for an interview!
|
|
March 4, 10am-11am at
Klem's
Free to attend. All knowledge levels welcome. Join us for fun and interactive learning with Nutrena® Guest Speaker.
Basic Care, Nutrition, Common Ailments, Flock Maintenance, Egg Laying, Summer Care and Questions & Answers. 1 DAY ONLY · Discounts & In-Store Specials!
|
Maple Days and more at OSV
Maple Days at Old Sturbridge Village
Saturday, March 4 to Sunday, March 5
Saturday, March 11 to Sunday, March 12
Saturday, March 18 to Sunday, March 19
Saturday, March 25 to Sunday, March 26
For many at Old Sturbridge Village, the first whiff of spring isn't the aroma of spring flowers - it's the smell of wood smoke and maple syrup, a sure sign that the sap is rising and spring is on the way. Join us for four weekends of our Maple Days event throughout March, where you can see maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century rural New England in OSV's working sugar camp.
See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to "sugaring off," and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England.
Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products by the hearth at the Village's Freeman Farm.
March 11: Hearthside Bounty
Experience an evening in a 19th-century tavern, complete with a meal cooked over the hearth by OSV staff, old-fashioned entertainment and a look into table manners of the 1800s. In addition to a supper prepared in part at the hearth, guests may enjoy beverages fashionable in early New England, hear music and stories from an earlier time, and explore period games and entertainment.
$54.95 per person (OSV Members $49.95)
Inclusive of tax and gratuity
Museum Hours: March - April
Open Wednesday - Sunday | 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
|
Moon & Star Watching Night Hike at Heins Farm
March 4
Join us for a star watching night hike at Heins Farm. We will talk about the stars, moon and planets visible in the spring sky; there will be a telescope on hand to get a closer look.
(If the skies are cloudy we will still have a night hike.)
When: Saturday March 4th 7:30pm - 9:30pm
(Please RSVP via e-mail to facilitate planning)
Where: 197 Leadmine Rd
Opportunities to get involved.
Join FrOST
The Friends of Sturbridge Trails is a not-for-profit group that helps support and maintain the trails in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. FrOST depends on memberships to support our wonderful Trail system.
|
Rock for Jess
Sunday, March 5th at 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The Cannery Music Hall
12 Crane St. Southbridge, MA.
(Park & Enter Behind Silver Building)
"Rock for Jess" is a fundraiser celebrating the life of Jessica Dailey.
All proceeds benefit the Center of Hope in Southbridge, where Jessica had many friends.
Tickets are $5.00 each at the door.
Please join us for a Chinese Raffle, 50/50 raffle and the musical talents of
The David Michael Nelson Project.
If you would like to make a donation or donate a gift basket,
please contact Lisa Hamlin at (508) 320-1597.
|
Second Chance Animal Shelter Preview Night
March 10, 5-7pm, Leicester Country Club
1430 Main Street, Leicester, MA
Due to the popularity of this year's 18th Annual Dinner Auction Fundraiser we will be doing a preview night where you can come and pre-bid on the fabulous items we will have up for auction! There will be a cash bar and crackers and cheese platter.
Join us from 5-7pm at the Leicester Country Club. Tickets are $10 per person.
CMS Chamber Members!
We are new to the Chamber and would like to meet our fellow Chamber Members and show what we do here at Second Chance so we are offering tickets at a reduced rate to Chamber Members!
Use coupon code: 'chamber' and get in for just a $5 donation per person.
The bids will not close until the following night at our 18th Annual Dinner Auction.
Visit this link to register online:
|
|
March 11, 11am-12:30pm at
Klem's
Free to attend. Tips for Beginners!
Instructed by Roland Sevigney, who has 44 Years of Experience, as well as, Member & Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Worcester County Beekeepers Association.
|
Center of Hope Foundation's
MEAT RAFFLE
Saturday March 11, 2017, 6-9PM
Italian Club - 20 North Street, Southbridge, MA
50/50 Raffle - Open Cash Bar & Snacks Available
A Butcher will be available to cut the meat the way you want it.
508-764-4085
|
Saturday March 11, 2017, 7PM
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND---- TRIVIA NIGHT, Saturday, March 11 at 7pm. This year's event will have a Saint Patrick's Day theme. Teams of 4 can compete for prizes and a special trophy. Refreshments will be available, contestants may BYOB. Entry fee is $80 per team, or $20 per person. To register or for more information, call Gateway at 508-764-4531. Online tickets are available at: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2873543
Advance registration is required. Once again, Jim Varrichio will lead the trivia contest and we are very happy to have him come back to Gateway. If you are an individual looking to participate, we will place you on a team.
Come to the barn for a fun night of friendly competition and a test of your knowledge. This will be an entertaining way to spend a Saturday night.
|
Writing Workshop with Ed Londergan
March 12 at Salem Cross Inn
 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.
|
Experience Fireplace Feast!
March 12, 18, & 19
(March 3, 4 ,5, 10 & 11 are SOLD OUT!)
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.
|
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.
|
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!
March 13
Harrington Hospital Auxiliary
Federated Church of Sturbridge
IRISH FEAST
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
|
Free Home Buyer's Seminar
Join us for an Informative Session on Beginning Your Home Search
Wednesday, March 15th 6:30pm
Rapscallion Brewery, 195 Arnold Road, Sturbridge, MA
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED
Please RSVP to Jennifer Wilson at 800-547-2885 x19243 by March 10th
Win a $50 Gift Card!*
Here you will learn:
- Why it is important to hire the right buyer's agent to help you not only search homes, but to obtain valuable information that will help you in a competitive market
- What you might expect from the home inspection process
- What are the first steps to getting pre-approved for a mortgage
- All of the steps required from Offer to Purchase to Closing
- How a real estate attorney works on your behalf
Information provided by:
Patrick Harvey, Mortgage Consultant, SSB NMLS #857465
Joann Impallaria, Realtor with Coldwell Banker Brokerage
James G. Gerrish, Attorney at Gerrish & Rousseau
Michael Checkosky, Mortgage Consultant, SSB, NMLS #719009
CHARLTON | HOLDEN | NORTH OXFORD | SOUTHBRIDGE | SPENCER | STURBRIDGE | WEBSTER | WORCESTER
800-939-9103
* No purchase necessary. Must be 18 years of age or older. Southbridge Savings Bank employees and family members are not eligible to win.
|
Village Toastmasters Open House
Thursday, March 16
6:30 - 8:15pm, Southbridge Savings Bank, 200 Charlton Rd, Sturbridge
For over 90 years, Toastmasters has helped thousands of people improve their communication and leadership skills. People from all professions and ages have benefited. However, there are still many people that are unaware of Toastmasters and what they do.
Village Toastmasters of Sturbridge has the answers!
On Thursday, March 16 Village Toastmasters hosts an Open House for those that are curious about how they can benefit from the Toastmasters experience.
About Village Toastmasters
Village Toastmasters, located in Sturbridge, MA, is focused on helping members improve their public speaking and leadership skills while building confidence in their abilities. The group meets every Thursday night 7:00-8:15 p.m. at the Southbridge Savings Bank conference room. Visitors are always welcome. For more information, visit
VillageToastmasters.org.
|
7th Annual Empowering Women in Business Conference
March 23, 1:10-7:00pm
The Empowering Women in Business conference provides women with the dynamic opportunity to advance their career, grow their business, and help design their future by pursuing professional development within a welcoming environment of career-focused women leaders. Women can expect to gain a newfound inspiration, a sense of achievement, and an increased business network within the local community.
Announcing our 2017 keynote speaker, Angela Hucles.
Chief Empowerment Officer of Empowerment Through Sport, Angela is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist for US Soccer, two-time World Cup Bronze Medalist, former professional soccer player of the Boston Breakers and the President, Women's Sports Foundation, 2015 & 2016.
Date:
Thursday, March 23, 2017, 1:10pm-7:00pm
Where:
Nichols College, Dudley, MA
Only $25 to attend. Refreshments included. $10 for ALL college students.
REGISTER NOW!
SEATS ARE LIMITED.
508-213-2443
Visit this link for registration info.
|
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!
March 2: Krosslink Bar-Stool Pitch Sessions
March 4: Maple Days Begin at OSV
March 6: Fun at Five at Sturbridge Seafood with bankHometown
March 10: Second Chance Animal Shelter Preview Night
March 12: Daylight Savings Time Begins
March 12:
Writing Workshop with Ed Londergan
March 15: Free Homebuyers Seminar at Rapscallion Brewery
March 16: Village Toastmasters Open House
March 20: First Day of Spring
March 23:
Lunch with Governor Baker
at Southbridge Hotel
March 28:
Chamber Seminar 'How to Engage your Legislator'
|
VISIT US ONLINE FOR LOCAL EVENTS AND MORE
www.cmschamber.org
|
|
|
| |
|
March 2 - Belly Dancing
