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Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Jocelyn Callis
1st Vice Chair
Michael Checkosky
__________
Board Members
Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co.
Jim Donahue
Honorary Board Member
Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
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Greetings from the Chamber of Central Mass South!
CROSSROADS EVENTS is in your inbox on Friday before a big holiday weekend! There is so much to see and do as we welcome another spectacular spring. Don't miss a huge Grand Opening at 508 International on Earth Day! We'll also keep you in the know on important news from our Members, invite you to golf with us in June, and offer opportunities for you to network and learn with us later this month!
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!
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You're Invited to a Special
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Celebration!
508 International
April 22, 11am to 7pm
On Earth Day, April 22, the Chamber will cut the official ribbon to mark the Grand Opening of one amazing new venue in Charlton: 508 International!
We will be celebrating in a festival atmosphere with live music, art, games, food trucks, retailers, product demos, and more. The competition space will offer open rides for dirt bikes, ATVs, 4x4s, BMX, obstacle course running, slacklining, and other action sports! The event happens all day long, from 11am to 7pm and we sure hope you will join us for all the action!
This event is open to the public and all are welcome. Tickets are $10 online and $20 at the gate for the general public. Read on for more about this incredible new venue and find a link below to reserve your ticket(s) to the Grand Opening!
508 International's mission is to create a vibrant hub for sports entertainment where new experiences, competitions, and partnerships emerge.
Check out all the action sports 508INTL has to offer-Dirt Bikes, ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, Trucks, BMX, Cyclocross, Mountainboarding, Climbing, Slacklining, Disc Golf, Adventure Races, and more. Don't miss your chance to drive, ride or run the courses first!
GRAND OPENING SCHEDULE
11:00: Doors open: Speakers and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
11:30: Main Stage: National Anthem. Speakers & Proclamations.
11:45: Tracks: First Ride (All participants do a slow lap.)
12:00: Festival begins
GET YOUR TICKETS!
To order your tickets, go to:
Exclusive Offer for Chamber Members!
Contact us at 508-347-2761 for instructions for pre-ordering your FREE tickets (2 per Member).
Vendor Booths at 508 International's Grand Opening
508 International is offering a free vendor booth to the first 6 members of the Chamber that sign up. Send your request to
weare@508intl.com with "Free Vendor Booth for Chamber Members" in the subject line.
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NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Fun at Five!
Tuesday, April 25 at 5:00pm
502 Main Street, Sturbridge, 508-347-2321
Join us for networking and more at
The Duck!
For more than 30 years, this Greek revival-style building has housed one of Sturbridge's favorite restaurants, known to locals as "The Duck." A special place to indulge in a choice-cut steak, enjoy a fantastic seafood special, bite into a mouth-watering cheeseburger, or delight in a signature cocktail at the now-famous sunken bar, the Duck has something for everyone.
Never content to rest on their laurels, Table 3 has some big changes in store for the Duck in 2017. Please join us at this Fun at Five to learn about upcoming renovations and changes to the concept and menus. Chef Tony will be preparing some future menu items for us to try as well as several local brewers will be on hand for some fantastic micro-brew pairings. Be one of the first to be "in the know" about the exciting upcoming changes for a perennial favorite, The Duck.
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
Thank you to our
April Fun at Five sponsor!
Since 1972. Dave's Pest Control has been providing both homeowners and commercial property owners with complete pest control services throughout the Worcester County area
for over 40 years.
541 Main Street, Fiskdale, MA
508-347-2687
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CMS Chamber Brown Bag Seminar Series
Can't We All Just Get Along?
How To Deal
with Difficult Employees
with Rita Schiano, Founder of
Live a Flourishing Life
™
Tuesday, April 25 at Noon
Chamber Conference Room, 46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
FREE for CMS Chamber Members,
$50 for non-Members.
Space is Limited! Please RSVP by April 24.
Call 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org to save your spot! Feel free to bring your lunch.
Relax, learn and grow with us!
Does making everyone on your team happy sometimes seem like an impossible task?
Not every person is always going to be pleased with your leadership. That's just how it is. Sometimes there is that one team member who is never happy. If you say yes, he says no; if you say store it up high, she says stash it down low. This person disagrees with everything, believing his/her way is the only way; he or she refuses to get on board with the rest of the team. It's amazing how one individual can make your life miserable.
But before you bang your head against the wall again, there are some solutions! Come learn practical strategies, tools and techniques that can be put into action immediately.
 Presented by Rita Schiano
Founder, Rita Schiano-
Live a Flourishing Life™
Rita is a resilience strategist and coach, speaker. A former corporate vice-president, Rita's leadership knowledge, strategies, and insights draw from both sides of the aisle. As a personal strategic coach, Rita helps clients focus specifically on their most important goals, interests, challenges, and needs.
See more online at www.ritaschiano.com.
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Presenters Needed
Would you be interested in presenting an upcoming Brown Bag Seminar? Our Education Committee is looking to line up further seminars this year. If you would like to share your expertise on a topic you are passionate about with your fellow Members, please contact us. Our Brown Bag Seminars take place at noon in the Chamber office on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except July and August). Our next open date is November 28.
Please Contact Alix if you are interested in being a presenter.
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Don't Forget t
o use your M2M Card!
Discounts from Members... for Members!
We THANK YOU for KEEPING IT LOCAL!
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Chamber of Central Mass South
GOLF CLASSIC 2017
To Benefit the Chamber Scholarship Fund
Sponsored by Southbridge Savings Bank
Heritage Country Club, Charlton
June 22, 2017
Join us as we hit the links at Heritage Country Club for a fun-filled day of golf and camaraderie on the course at our annual Golf Classic. Check out the details and find registration information below.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
7:45 am Registration
9:00 am Shot Gun Start
2:30 pm Dinner Reception
YOUR DAY INCLUDES:
Continental breakfast
Greens and cart fees
Heritage Country Club in Charlton, MA
Cookout lunch on the course
Spectacular raffle prizes!
Contests:
Longest drive, male & female
Closest to the pin
Refreshments available on the course
Reception and dinner after play
SCRAMBLE FORMAT:
All players hit from the best lie
COST:
Foursome: $475
Individual: $125
Dinner Only: $30
View and download the detailed brochure.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE.
$100 Tee Box Sponsor:
Includes a sign with your business name and logo at the tee box or green.
$750 Corporate Sponsor:
Includes 1 Foursome, Tee Box Sponsor, 4 additional meal tickets for guests, featured in all promotional materials at event.
CONTACT MICHAEL CHECKOSKY
FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Phone: 508-764-0012
Fax: 508-765-1187
SPONSORED BY:
Make all checks payable to:
Central MA South Chamber of Commerce
Mail your check with the brochure's reservation form to:
Southbridge Savings Bank
c/o Mike Checkosky
253-257 Main Street
Southbridge, MA 01550
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Harrington Auxiliary Presents 26th Annual Lucky Duck/Family Fun Day
 Time to get your ducks lined up! Harrington Auxiliary presents its 26th annual Lucky Duck/Family Fun Day on Sunday, May 7, 2017 from 11 am to 3 pm. Note that this year's event takes place at Fay Mountain Farm on Stafford Street in Charlton, MA.
Tickets for the event will be on sale Fridays and Saturdays during April at Bartlett High School in Webster; Big Bunny Supermarket in Southbridge; Klem's in Spencer; Market Basket in Oxford; Marty's Liquor Store in Dudley; Moto Cross Park in Charlton; Nipmuck Liquors in Webster; Park 'N Shop in Dudley; Savers Bank in Southbridge; Shaw's Supermarket in Sturbridge; Southbridge Credit Union; Stop & Shop in Sturbridge; Harrington Auxiliary Gift Shop; Harrington Hospital Lobby; Ted's Package Store in Charlton; and Walmart in Oxford, Leicester and Sturbridge. Duck tickets may also be purchased the day of the event between 11 am and 1:45 pm.
The donation for one Lucky Duck is $5; a Six Quack (one free bonus duck) for a $25 donation; a Whole Flock (13 ducks for the price of ten) for a $50 donation. The Grand Prize is $1,000 with several other cash prizes for 2nd through 5th place.
Family members of all ages will have plenty to do from face painting and games to a pie-eating contest and snap "n" flash photos. Children are invited to decorate a duck cookie and to participate in a child ID program. Several crafters will be on hand to display and sell their creations and a variety of food vendors will provide sumptuous treats to tempt any palate. Activities begin at 11 am and wrap up at 3 pm.
For more information, call the Lucky Duck hotline at 508-765-6473.
Harrington Auxiliary, established in 1932, is a non-profit organization of dedicated and impassioned volunteers whose mission is to support and enhance the excellent services provided by the Harrington HealthCare System.
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FREE TRAINING
Understanding Your Customers with Dementia & Memory Changes
A Training Course by StilMee™
Coach Sharon F. Whittemore, LICSW
Tri-Valley invites employees of the business community to attend a FREE 2-hour program to help them better understand customers with dementia and memory changes. This training is made possible by a grant from the Mass. Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
FREE TRAINING PROGRAMS:
Thursday, April 20, 2017
SESSION 1: 10 am - 12 noon
SESSION 2: 2 pm - 4 pm
Friday, May 5, 2017
SESSION 3: 10 am - 12 noon
SESSION 4: 2 pm - 4 pm
All sessions to be held at
Tri-Valley, Inc.
10 Mill Street, Dudley, MA 01571
Seating limited to 40 people per session -- register early.
RSVP to Susan Salisbury, Community Services & Information Program Director at ssalisbury@tves.org with attendees' names and SESSION # (2 choices)
For more information call 1-800-286-6640 Ext 3088
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Valley Gives Day at Hitchcock: Raise Funds While You Color!
Sue Gregory created a 3" Bob Ross Pin as a prize for Valley Gives Day.
Sign up today to join in the coloring fun!
Artist Patrons of all ages and abilities can help Hitchcock Academy raise funds by coloring!
Invite your friends to make a donation along with you!
Event organizers have chosen a secret mural to recreate, but here is the trick... we have divided the mural into sections and participants will receive only a small section of the mural to color on materials provided.
Ask for your square to color today! Completed squares to be returned by April 26th.
We ask each artist to pledge to make a donation to Hitchcock on Valley Gives Day and encourage friends and families to join them in supporting arts, educational and recreational programs at Hitchcock. One artist's name will be drawn at the reveal to win a one-of-a-kind handmade pin of PBS artist Bob Ross (see photo above.)
Every piece is vital! Together we can make amazing things happen. All is revealed on May 2 at 6:30-8:30 where we will have music and activities!
Mini coloring sessions will be held for those in need of guidance or use of 99 crayon colors:
Anna Ozolins - Tues April 4, 9-11
Loretta Medeiros - Wed April 5, 6-7
Marcia Beal - Thurs April 6, 6-7
Hitchcock Seeks an Assistant for Publicity
2-3 evenings a week 6:00-9:00 PM Tuesday, Thursday, and alternating Fridays.
There may also be a few weekend days annually.
Submit applications by April 23, 2017
or mail to P.O. Box 155 Brimfield, MA 01010
Hitchcock Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Join us in support of our Happy Little Community Center!
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Hires Kimberly Cobb
as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) is pleased to announce the recent hire of Kimberly Cobb as the Bank's Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
In her new role, Cobb will be responsible for all aspects of the Bank's finances, including oversight of the budget, the investment portfolio, and the internal and external financial reporting. Additionally, she will supervise the Accounting and Deposit Operations departments and work closely with senior management to develop strategy consistent with the Bank's mission.
Cobb most recently held the position of First Vice President and Controller as well as Interim Chief Financial Officer at South Shore Bank. She previously held various other positions in the finance industry, including Manager of Network, Cash and Reserves at CVS Caremark Corporation, Director of Accounting for Sallie Mae Inc., and Chief Financial Officer of Mansfield Municipal Electric Department.
"I look forward to becoming well-versed in the operations of North Brookfield Savings Bank, and developing strong relationships with the staff, management and with our local communities," said NBSB Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Kimberly Cobb. "I would like to become a familiar face in our communities so that I have the opportunity to learn more about our customers who have been an integral part of NBSB's success. I hope to explore this beautiful and historical part of Massachusetts."
Cobb, of Mansfield, MA, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Bentley College and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Isenberg School of Management.
"We are so pleased to welcome Kimberly to North Brookfield Savings Bank. I am confident that with her depth of financial knowledge and experience, along with her strong background in management, that she will be a valued team member," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President & CEO Donna Boulanger. "I know she will be a key contributor to the overall success of the Bank and will help us to serve our customers even better."
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Parents Keeping Kids Safe Program at Hitchcock Academy on April 26
Parents Keeping Kids Safe is a program to help parents navigate their children through issues of bullying and teen dating violence to stop it before it begins. This special presentation will be held at the Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield, MA at 6:30pm on April 26, 2017. The guest speakers will be Melanie Lucash of New Hope, Inc., and Maggie Nicholson of the YWCA Central Massachusetts. This event will be open to the public. If you need to bring your children, a separate children's area will have simple activities for them as needed.
A key component in preventing bullying and teen dating violence is stopping it before it begins. Prevention strategies need to focus on healthy behaviors in relationships. As a senior student at Bay Path University I am working on a project for my WEL440 class (Leadership in Practice), which encourages women to set in motion an opportunity for change. In conjunction with StopAbuseToday, and its coordinator Margo Chevers, this presentation is an opportunity to encourage and support parents in teaching children the importance of building positive and healthy relationships.
Bullying can be physical or verbal and be very complex. Teaching strategies to recognize bullying and what actions to take can begin when children are young. Just as important is preparing children from an early age about teen dating issues. Children of all ages can begin to learn the skills that can help them distinguish healthy and positive relationships for when they begin to date. By discussing both these important issues parents can help their children begin to build a foundation for recognizing abusive behavior during their teen years. Relationships skills, which include communication and problem-solving abilities, can be taught while children are still young. It is our hope to help parents by discussing some of these skills as they raise children in a world that continues to see high rates of violence.
For more information please contact Mary Jo Mason at 413-544-8136/mason.maryjo@yahoo.com
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Donates to Hearts for Heat
$1,500 donation to North Brookfield chapter helps make fuel payments possible
From left to right: North Brookfield Savings Bank Senior Vice President of Retail Banking Patty Ostrout with Hearts for Heat North Brookfield Chapter members Sue Lewandowski, Tom Lewandowski, Ellen Smith, Crystal Caron and North Brookfield Savings Bank Trustee Betsy Cuddy.
Thanks to the work of the North Brookfield Chapter of Hearts for Heat and a donation from North Brookfield Savings Bank, many residents didn't have to suffer through another New England winter without heat.
On March 10th, North Brookfield Savings Bank presented a $1,500 check to members of the North Brookfield chapter of Hearts for Heat, a community-based, non-profit organization dedicated to covering fuel costs to provide heat for residents in need. The $1,500 check represented a matching donation, equal to what residents contributed during the Hearts for Heat capital campaign.
The North Brookfield Hearts for Heat chapter confidentially provides fuel, including oil, gas and wood, to North Brookfield residents on a fixed income, including the elderly, those who are disabled or sick, and unemployed or underemployed individuals and families. Additional Hearts for Heat chapters located in Leicester, Spencer and Princeton, provide the same service for residents of those towns.
"We are so thankful for the efforts put forth by the North Brookfield Hearts for Heat chapter members and the local community for their contributions," said Donna Boulanger, North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO. "North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to contribute to help heat local homes and to offer our support to such a vital organization."
For more information about Hearts for Heat, visit www.HeartsForHeat.org.
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.
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Hitchcock Academy Receives Grant in Honor of Dot Gerrish
Dot Gerrish, right, has been remembered and honored with a grant donation to Hitchcock Academy.
Hitchcock Academy received a generous grant of $2,500 from Mulcahy Family Charitable Fund, a donor Advised Fund of the U. S. Charitable Gift Trust. This donation is in honor of Dot Gerrish.
Dot was a long time attendee of programs at Hitchcock Academy, in particular the Tuesday Morning art group. Each week friends gather at Hitchcock with their art supplies and draw, use watercolors, color pencil and other medium to create their own art work. The Friends share expertise and assist each other when needed and quite often head out to lunch after a morning of art.
The art group recently did a challenge to paint the same covered bridge and to share their work together. This program is open to all, bring your supplies and join the fun Tuesdays 9:00-11:30.
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SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank Honor Long-time Employees for Years of Dedication
Photo caption: SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank honor long-time employees at annual Length of Service Awards dinner on March 15, 2017.
Seated, L to R: Heather Loranger, 10 years; Deborah DeCoste, 20 years; Jaime Salerno, 15 years; Colleen Lord, 15 years; and Chelsea Prizio, 10 years.
Standing, L to R: Todd Tallman, Southbridge Savings Bank President & CEO; Michael Checkosky, 20 years; Leanne Normandin, 5 years; Robert Mangan, 5 years; Donna Reynolds, 15 years; Claire Kasper, 5 years; Wendy Coran, 15 years; K. Michael Robbins, SpencerBANK President & CEO; Lori Kowal, 15 years; Cynthia Roberts, 10 years; Brenda Alano, 30 years; Brenda Bachant, 5 years; Lisa Swift, 15 years; and Stacie Moulton, 15 years.
Absent from photo:Pamela Keyes, 35 years; and Gina Petruzzi, 5 years.
SpencerBANK and Southbridge Savings Bank recently held their annual Length of Service Awards dinner at Avellino in Sturbridge. The Banks, which honored 19 employees this year, host this event each year to recognize the dedication and longevity of their employees.
"We attribute much of our success to our employees and we truly value their commitment to the Bank and to the community," said K. Michael Robbins, president & CEO of SpencerBANK. "Congratulations to this year's recipients and we thank you for your loyalty."
"We value the work of our employees and could not ask for a better group. Every day they show up to work ready, willing and dedicated to the Bank and our customers," said Todd M. Tallman, president & CEO of Southbridge Savings Bank. "Congratulations to all the recipients!"
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 at spencerbankonline.com, 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, southbridgesavingsbank.com, visit them on facebook.com/southbridgesavings or call toll free 800-939-9103.
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Visits Local
Elementary Schools for Community Reading Days
Tonya Morrill (center), North Brookfield Savings Bank Regional Branch Manager, shown with Channing LeBlanc (left), North Brookfield Elementary School Paraprofessional and Mrs. Ahearn (right), Kindergarten Teacher.
North Brookfield Savings Bank is a proud supporter and promoter of literacy, especially when it comes to the next generation. This is why as a part of the Bank's community initiative to encourage literacy among the younger generations, NBSB management staff visited their local Elementary Schools to read to children from Kindergarten to 4th grade.
Tonya Morrill, North Brookfield Savings Bank Regional Branch Manager read aloud the book
Sir French Toast and Lady Pancake to Mrs. Ahearn's Kindergarten classroom at North Brookfield Elementary School. The students listening to Morrill narrate the story had a wonderful time interacting and traveling on a journey with the book's characters. Afterward, the Bank gave students pencils for their schoolwork and piggy banks to practice early saving habits.
"It was a wonderful experience to see a room full of young students listening attentively to a very entertaining story," said Caitlin O'Connor, Assistant Vice President/Marketing Manager. "North Brookfield Savings Bank is so glad to do our part to promote literacy in our communities and reading to school children is such a rewarding and fun way to participate. We look forward to continuing to visit the local schools in the future."
In addition to participating in North Brookfield Elementary School's Community Reading Day, North Brookfield Savings Bank management staff also read at The Stanley M. Koziol Elementary School in Ware, East Brookfield Elementary School, West Brookfield Elementary School and Warren Elementary School, with more reading to be scheduled moving forward.
An impressive number of local professionals and community leaders also read to students in other classrooms as a part of Community Reading Day in all communities.
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Raptors, Red Giants, Tech Talk, Wearable Art, a Fair & More!
April 15 - April 21, 2017
Bald Eagle Photo by E. Linkkila
As Earth Day approaches, this week's Spring Outdoors leaders extend invitations to some naturally-terrific places. Horizon Wings in Ashford, Goodwin Forest in Hampton, the "Mill Museum" in Willimantic, Quinebaug Valley Community College and Cat Hollow in Killingly, and Sprague Land Trust's preserve in Franklin are some of the places you can visit in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor this week!
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) has two program choices this week. First up is TLGV's monthly member program. "Cleanup Day at Horizon Wings" is happening Saturday, April 15th from 9 am - noon. Volunteers will help rake leaves and clear debris. Following the cleanup, TLGV members can enjoy pizza and snacks as well as the chance to meet resident raptors including bald eagle Atka and golden eagle Chrysos. Please RSVP to Bill@tlgv.org or call 860-774-3300 so he knows whoooo is coming to Ashford to help. Then, TLGV Rangers Geoff & Kim will be "Deep Sky Observing" on Friday, April 21st at 8 pm in Franklin. Gaze at galaxies, clusters of stars, Red Giants, Nebulae & more! This is a family-friendly event, but no dogs or lanterns please.
Goodwin Forest has a handful of choices to get you digging into nature. The "Gardener's Roundtable" workshop is for all experience levels on Saturday, April 15th from 10 - 11:30 am. Best practices and pitfalls, successes and failures, expertise and questions will all be discussed. Also at Goodwin on Saturday April 15th, cast your attention to "Fly Fishing: How & Why" with Trout Unlimited from 2 - 3:30 pm. Trout streams, strategy, timing, insect id basics, & skills are just some of the topics that very knowledgeable speakers will share. Then, on Monday, April 17th from 4:30 - 5:30 pm, "Nature Tech Talk" encourages merging outdoors and technology for all ages to connect with nature. Plan to take a stroll on the Goodwin trails to try your new tech skills, then attend the "How Flowers are Affected by Climate Change" from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Fulbright Scholar & UConn Ph.D. student Tanisha Williams will share her knowledge with you. Finally, "Spring Bird Watching" at Goodwin is always exciting! Join Conservation Educator Michael Grady on Wednesday, April 19th from 11 am - 1 pm for sightings. Bring binoculars and do not wear bright clothing.
Enjoy a spot of tea on Saturday, April 15th, from 4 - 6 pm at the Windham Textile & History Museum during "Tea & Just Desserts featuring 40 Years of Creative Clothing." Laura Crow, curator of the current exhibit "The Timeless Art of Dyllis: Forty Years of Creative Clothing" will give a brief talk. Reservations are required to 860-456-2178 or email themillmuseum@gmail.com, $15 per person.
The "Every Day is Earth Day Environmental Fair" brings a robust day full of activities on Tuesday, April 18th. Start off at 6 am with the "On the Air Water Fair" live on WINY Radio 1350am by heading to the WINY parking lot to receive a water collection bottle from Northeast District Department of Health and the CT Department of Public Health for FREE testing of your well water, a $150 - $200 value! The party moves to Quinebaug Valley Community College from 10:30 am - 2 pm with dozens of earth-friendly vendors, water experts, student murals, music, an upcycle "Trash to Treasures swap" and more. Impressive and much-sought after author, Brenda Ekwurzel, Ph.D. will speak at 12:30 pm in the QVCC Auditorium. Can't make this time slot? Dr. Ekwurzel will speak again at the CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret at 7 pm the same day.
Friday, April 21st closes out the week with something for the family and kids of all ages. Killingly Library's "Story Walk at Cat Hollow" is a leisurely walk through Cat Hollow Park while enjoying a nature-related story from 10 - 11:30 am. This is perfect for little legs and strollers. Registration required to 860-779-53863 or info@killinglypubliclibrary.org.
To get all the Spring Outdoor choices and clean-up opportunities, visit www.thelastgreenvalley.org or TLGV's Facebook page. New adventures are being added all the time, so be sure to check in often!
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 works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. Together we can care for it, enjoy it and pass it on!
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Becker College Receives Donation from SpencerBANK
Pictured here (L to R): Becker College Executive Director of Institutional Advancement & Leadership Giving Jane Grant; SpencerBANK Vice President of Marketing Lori Kowal; and Becker College Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Chief Business Development Officer Colleen L. Bielitz, Ph.D
There is no better investment than one that supports our future generation, and SpencerBANK is proud to have recently donated $1,000 to Becker College. This donation will support a summer STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) camp for girls from low-income households in Worcester and surrounding towns.
The STEM camp benefits girls in grades 6-8, that attend economically disadvantaged public schools. The program gives girls an opportunity to learn, for the first time, about technology by teaching math, logic and programming skills. The students will work side by side with each other under the guidance of mentors from the camp staff.
"This camp can make such a difference for many middle-school aged girls, and give them the confidence in courses not traditionally pursued by young girls," said K. Michael Robbins, President and CEO of SpencerBANK. "We couldn't think of a better way to give back than to support this inspirational program."
"Becker College is so grateful to SpencerBANK for their generous support of our STEM summer camp program helping young girls explore technology and empowering them to grow into transformational leaders of tomorrow," says Jane Grant, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement & Leadership Giving. "On behalf of the entire Becker campus, thank you for your community partnership and commitment to Becker College."
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Suggests 6 Tips
for Spring Cleaning Your Finances
As spring cleaning season begins, you start to open up the windows and brush away the winter dust. North Brookfield Savings Bank is also encouraging you to do some financial spring cleaning by putting a priority on organizing your finances and is offering some helpful tips to get your financial house in order.
"With the tax season coming to an end, spring is a great time to take a look at your bank account and your budget," said Patty Ostrout, Senior Vice President/Retail Banking of North Brookfield Savings Bank. "Once you have a clear view of your current financial situation you will be able to make stress-reducing changes or updates that will help you financially moving forward."
North Brookfield Savings Bank has highlighted six tips to help you organize your finances:
- Evaluate and pay down debt. Take a look at how much you owe and what you are paying in interest. Begin paying off existing debt, whether that's by chipping away at loans with the highest interest rates or eliminating smaller debt first.
- Review your budget. A lot can change in a year. If you've been promoted, had a child, or become a new homeowner or renter, be sure to update your budget. Determine what expenses demand the most money and identify areas where you can realistically cut back. Develop a strategy for spending and saving - and stick to it.
- Check your credit report. Every year, you are guaranteed one free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus. Take advantage of these free reports and check them for any possible errors. Mistakes can drag down your score and prevent you from getting a loan, or cause you to pay a higher than necessary interest rate.
- Download your bank's mobile app. From the palm of your hand, you can make a deposit or access a record of all your recent transactions. You can download the North Brookfield Savings Bank app which includes the convenient Deposit on the Go Mobile Check Deposit feature. Be sure to download the latest updates when they are available.
- Sign up for eStatements, paperless billing and text alerts. Converting to paperless billing will help keep your house-physical and financial-more clean and organized, and will help protect you from fraud. Text alerts can help to remind you when an upcoming bill is due so you are less likely to miss a payment or let you know when your account balance is getting low.
- Set up automatic bill pay. By signing up for automatic bill pay, you'll never have to worry about a missed payment impacting your credit score. You can set it so that money is withdrawn from your checking account on the same day each month.
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SpencerBANK Donates to StandUp For Kids Worcester
Pictured here (L to R): SpencerBANK's Worcester Senior Branch Manager Nada Kanaan and Executive Director of the Worcester chapter of StandUp for Kids Donna Katsoudas
SpencerBANK recently made a $1,000 donation to the Worcester chapter of StandUp for Kids, an organization whose mission is to end youth homelessness.
"StandUp for Kids plays a very important role in our community," said K. Michael Robbins, President and CEO of SpencerBANK. "We are pleased to support this organization and their mission to provide these adolescents with help and guidance to a positive future."
StandUp for Kids, founded in 1990, is a national non-profit organization that strives to provide life-saving and outreach services to homeless and at-risk youth. The organization, run almost entirely by volunteers, has local programs in many states across the country. To learn more about the Worcester chapter of StandUp for Kids, visit them online at www.standupforkids.org/worcester.
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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.
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New Series Focuses on Dark Skies in The Last Green Valley!
Once in a Blue Moon. Photo by Linda Sulkazi
"Green by day" and "dark at night," The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is a relatively undeveloped notch in the midst of the most urbanized region in the nation. By day, green fields and forests confirm the surprisingly rural character of our 35 towns. At night, the region appears distinctively dark amid the urban and suburban glow when viewed from satellites or aircraft.
This year, as part of The Last Green Valley's (TLGV) Spring Outdoors programming, TLGV Rangers Geoff and Kimberly McLean of McLean Research Associates will share their astronomical expertise and focus our attention on The Last Green Valley's dark skies.
"Get the Scoop on Pluto" kicks off the series on Friday, April 14th at 7 pm in TLGV's headquarters in Killingly. Learn about this bizarre little planet that defies all preconceptions. This talk is most appropriate for ages 10 and up. Space is limited to the first 50 people to pre-register. Sign up now at register@mcleanresearch.com.
On Friday, April 21st, visit the Sprague Land Trust property on Holton Road in Franklin for "Deep Sky Observing" starting at 8 pm. Be ready for night observing of some distant objects like galaxies, clusters of stars, Red Giants, and Nebulae. Learn how to find the North Star. If you have a telescope - bring it. If you don't know how to use it, come early and we'll help you get started. Rangers Geoff and Kim will talk about, and answer, all kinds of astronomical trivia while we observe those great skies. This is a family-friendly event. Please, no lanterns, and flashlights should have only red lights (no white lights). No dogs except for guide dogs. This program will be repeated on Friday, June 16th, same place, same time. Plan to attend both sessions!
"Light Pollution 101" takes place at TLGV's headquarters in Killingly on Friday, May 19th at 7 pm. The Last Green Valley is the sole remaining coastal area between Boston and Washington with dark skies. We need to preserve the dark and yet still feel safe. Discover what light pollution is, how to prevent it, what it does to animals, and most important how it affects your health. Learn how by reducing light pollution you can save money at the same time. Dark skies are not just for astronomers, but for everyone. The talk is appropriate for ages 5 and up. Space is limited, and pre-registration is necessary. Email register@mcleanresearch.com to assure your spot.
For more details, or to view all the other Spring Outdoor choices, TLGV has developed a web-based brochure (that can be downloaded and printed) at www.thelastgreenvalley.org. Events are listed on TLGV's Facebook page, too. New adventures are being added all the time, so be sure to check in often!
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3rd Annual Family Farm Fest - April School Vacation Week
Saturday, April 15, 2017 to Sunday, April 23, 2017
Young and old are invited to celebrate spring with the arrival of baby animals and the prepping of our fields at Old Sturbridge Village. Meet the Village's cuddly, heritage breed newborns up-close and experience first-hand the responsibilities of raising animals on a farm in 1830. At the Freeman Farm, families will learn about 19th century agriculture practices and tools, as well as learn how they are applicable to today's farmers and Laura Ingalls Wilder, as portrayed by historian Melanie Stringeren backyard gardeners. Kids will even have a chance to try their hand at seasonal chores!
Visit with a variety of animals including cattle, lambs, goats, chicks, bunnies and piglets. Compete in our Farm Yard Games, take a hay wagon ride around the country side, and learn more about farming and gardening. On weekends, listen to music in the Center Meetinghouse and meet guest teamsters from around New England.
All week during Family Farm Fest, guests will thrill at "meeting" Laura Ingalls Wilder, of the "Little House" series, as portrayed by historian Melanie Stringer. Stringer provides research-based, factual information about Wilder, her husband Almanzo, daughter Rose, and their family and friends. Her in-character answers to questions from the audience will reflect Ms. Wilder's known activities, tastes, opinions, experiences, beliefs, and manners.
Enjoy expanded hands-on and interactive activities throughout the Village, along with family-friendly performances and entertainment, including music and storytelling. Meet the new arrivals at the farm (every day). On Easter Sunday, April 16, children ages 10 and under are invited to participate in a Great Easter Egg Hunt at 2:00 pm. Participants should meet in the Visitor Center. Children can find up to 6 eggs each and redeem them for a free cookie in the Bake Shop.
Massachusetts-based roots musician Hannah Rose Baker & Friends will perform on the weekend of April 15-16, presenting bluegrass, classic country music, and traditional Appalachian and English song.
Legendary folk musician Jeff Warner will perform on the second weekend, April 22-23. Warner is among the nation's foremost performer/interpreters of traditional music. His songs from the lumber camps, fishing villages and mountain tops of America connect 21st century audiences with the everyday lives and artistry of 19th-century Americans.
April Hours
Open Wednesday - Sunday | 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Open Daily | April 15 - 23 | 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
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April 15, 11am-12:30pm at
Klem's
Free to attend. Tips for Beginners!
Instructed by Master Beekeeper, Mary Duane, who has been a bee keeper for 18 years, and is the current President of Worcester County Bee Keepers. She is also the Massachusetts state representative for the Eastern Apiary Society and is a recipient of the Bee Keeper of the Year award for Worcester County Bee Keepers.
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Fireplace Feasts in April!
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
Celebrate Easter at the Salem Cross Inn!
April 16
Easter is a great time to get together with family or friends and enjoy a home-cooked feast,
and what better place to spend it than here at Salem Cross Inn!
Tables fill up quickly so please make your reservations early.
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Easter Events at Table 3
Easter at The Duck and Cedar Street Grille
Sunday, April 16
For a special Easter celebration leave the cooking to the Table 3 Chefs. Our talented chefs have prepared sensational menus for Easter Sunday. The Duck and Avellino will be serving a traditional pre-fixe menu with all your holiday favorites. Cedar Street Grille will be offering a unique Easter brunch menu all day. The brunch menu will feature a mix of breakfast and dinner items, but with the special twist that always makes dining at Cedar Street such a special experience. Make your reservations now and enjoy a holiday free from stress in one of our fine restaurants.
Call 508-347-2321 for The Duck and Avellino seating: 11am-4pm
Call 508-347-5800 for Cedar Street Grille seating: 10am-4pm
Easter Jazz Brunch at the Barn
Sunday, April 16, 10am - 3pm
Join us from 10am-3pm for our first annual Easter Brunch Buffet at The Barn at Wight Farm while listening to the jazzy sounds of Swings Both Ways. The Barn's buffet will be brimming with all your favorites and some of Chef Tony and Chef Rico's inspirations. The price for this Easter extravaganza is just $36.95 per guest (plus tax & gratuity). Make your reservation now by calling Danielle Green at 774-241-8450.
The Barn at Wight Farm
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Easter Brunch at the Oliver Wight Tavern
Sunday, April 16, 2017 - 10:00am to 3:00pm
Adults | $39.95 Seniors | $35.95
Children ages 3 -12 | $13.95 Children under 3 | Free
(prices are inclusive of tax & gratuity)
Reservations are required; Please call 508-347-0230 or 508-347-0225.
The Easter Brunch offered at the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village promises an extensive buffet in a charming setting.
A Sampling of Our Menu:
Fresh Rolls with Whipped Butter, Fresh Fruit, Caesar Salad, Garden Salad
Mediterranean Salad, Smoked Salmon Display, Shrimp Cocktail
Rosemary and Garlic Carved Leg of Lamb with Mint Pesto
Prime Rib of Beef with Au jus and Horseradish Cream
Smoked Pit Ham with Bourbon Maple Glaze
Baked New England Cod with Chardonnay and Butter
Shrimp & Scallop Scampi, Cheese Stuffed Shells, Rice Pilaf, Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes
Honey Glazed Baby Carrots, Scrambled Eggs, Eggs Benedict, Duck Confit Sweet Potato Hash
Omelet Station, Waffle Station, Bacon and Sausage, Coffee, Tea, Juice
Kid's Buffet
French Toast Sticks, Chicken Tenders, Smiley Fries, Macaroni and Cheese,
Assorted Dessert Displays
There will also be a Great Easter Egg Hunt in the Village for kids, included with Village admission (separate from Easter Brunch price).
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Cooking with Table 3: Small Plates & Tapas
Thursday, April 20, 6:30pm, Avellino
Traditional tapas can vary from a dish of local olives to a small gourmet meal in itself. Simply put, the Spanish tapa is a small dish of food served with a drink, where the most important part of enjoying tapas is sharing good food with friends. The last part of this description is the concept that Cedar Street Grille was started with over six years ago. Carrying that tradition forward to today, Chef Nick Faucher has created an extraordinary menu that features an eclectic mix of small plates seved up in a casual, comfortable atmosphere that is perfect for sharing, exploration, and the celebration of food. Chef Nick will be leading this class demonstrating some of the most popular small plates from the Cedar Street menu and showing you the new small plates coming up on the new spring menu.
As always, these events often sell out so make your reservation early. This event is $55 per person with wine pairings, or $42 without. Tax and gratuity are not included. Make your reservations now by calling
Avellino at 508-347-2321.
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Live Music at The Cannery Music Hall!
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Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at Salem Cross Inn
Starts April 21
Salem Cross Inn and the
Stageloft Repertory Theater present a Murder Mystery Dinner theater dining event,
"A Healthier Life - The Making of an Info-mercial." We need your help. Oppie Losefree needs you to cast a ballot as to which strategy should be chosen for the upcoming info-mercial about leading a healthier life. Meet some health experts as they battle for the spotlight in an upcoming television ad. Hopefully the battle won't result in a murder! But you never know with these health fanatics...
The Murder Mystery Dinner is an advanced ticket purchase dining event.
Menu for the Murder Mystery Dinner
Tossed Garden Salad with Creamy Italian Dressing (served at 7:00pm)
Rustic Boneless Breast of Chicken - Supreme Sauce (served at 7:45pm)
Seasonal Potato and Vegetable
Homemade Rolls
Ice Cream Cakeballs with Homemade Hot Fudge
Brewed Tea or Coffee
Arrive by 6:30pm. Show begins promptly at 7:00pm.
Visit the website for more information and tickets.
$56 per person (Tax and gratuity included. Tickets are non-refundable. Advance purchase only)
To attend our Murder Mystery Dinner, visit the website, or call us at 508-867-2345.
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Equipment Consignment Auction
April 22, 10am to 4pm at Klems' Field
Free to attend. Open to the public.
Tractors, Farm & Landscape Equipment And All Types Of Agriculture Related Items!
Hosted by Raucher Brothers Auctioneers.
For commission rates please contact: Donald Raucher
(413) 537-3177 or donraucher@verizon.net
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2017 Country Bank Brimfield Trail 5k
April 22, 2017, 9AM start
Five Bridge Road, Brimfield, MA 01010
To benefit the Brimfield Trail Association's trail reclamation project
Please Note: We are now starting and ending the race at the field on the corner of
Five Bridge Road and Holland Road. Roughly 1/2 mile down from the trail head.
www.brimfieldtrail.org/trail-race
Register Online
RAIN OR SHINE!
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TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure
Salamander Story Walk
Sunday, April 23, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm
Meet at the parking area on Pond Bridge Road, Holland, MA.
Map to parking area at Pond Bridge Road.
WALK Lake Siog Pass Trail.
READ the book "Big Night for Salamanders."
LOOK for live squirmy salamanders, too!
Last year we found so many salamanders at this location and Acorn Adventure,
we could not wait to come back for another visit!
We're sure to learn & discover more!
Snacks, Acorn stickers & fresh air FUN always included!
Dress for the weather, and bring a friend!
FREE! All ages welcome.
Learn more about Holland Trails -> town.holland.ma.us/trails-committee
Explore, visit, engage & connect with the things that make our National Heritage Corridor special, like our trails, salamanders, nature & fresh air!
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Spaghetti Supper
April 27, 4pm - 7pm
Polish American Club, 18 Ballard Street, Southbridge
Help support Summer Enhancement Programs For YMCA Childcare Families.
COSTS:
$7 Adults (in advance) / $8 at the door
$5 Children (12 and under)
$5 Seniors (60+)
Tickets available at all YMCA locations
Tri-Community YMCA
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Click the image to register on the United Way website.
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Hophead Fest 2017
Saturday, April 29, 2017, 12pm-10pm
Join us for this annual tradition, with hoppy beers from a dozen breweries and live music
from Will Hatch 1-5pm and Big Jon Short 6-10pm, along with the kick-off of
Hyland Orchard's 2017 season with live music in the pavilion!
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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!
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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.
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Click on the image to browse our catalog of training courses!
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Save these Dates!
April 16:
Happy Easter!
April 17: Patriot's Day
April 22: Grand Opening Celebration: 508 International
April 22: Equipment Consignment Auction at Klem's
April 25: How to Deal with Difficult Employees Seminar
April 25: Fun at Five at The Duck with Dave's Pest Control
April 28: United Way Pub Quiz
April 29: Hophead Fest at Rapscallion
May 5-6: Country Folk Art Craft Show at Sturbridge Host Hotel
May 9-14: Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Shows
June 22: Chamber GOLF Classic
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