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Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
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Executive Committee
Jessica Bettencourt
Chair
Board Members
Michael Checkosky
Alycia Dzik
Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co.
Jim Donahue
Honorary Board Member
Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
Chamber Staff
Executive Director
Finance & Administration
Communications Specialist
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Welcome to February's CROSSROADS NEWS!
The shortest month of the year is packed with winter fun, festivals and many opportunities to learn and grow. We would love to catch up with you at The Sturbridge Host Hotel for February's Fun at Five. We welcome you to join us for an informative Brown Bag Seminar on finding business resources for FREE at your library. This lunchtime seminar is also FREE for our Members. In this issue, you will also find important news items from our Members and terrific local events including some sweet ideas for Valentine's Day!
Got news? Thank you for emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in
Crossroads!
Keep posting your upcoming events to our online events calendar! We love sharing them with our readers!
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NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Fun at Five!
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
at 5:00pm
Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center
366 Main Street (Rte 20), Sturbridge 508-347-7393
Join us for Valentine's themed Networking!
Bring your business cards and your sweetie along as we network in the heart of Sturbridge, at the Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center on the Monday evening before Valentine's Day!
There will be tasty treats, wine, beer and cocktails, chances to win some cool prizes and opportunities to mix and mingle with a spirited crowd of local professionals.
You could win...
A Valentine's Day Overnight Package for Two
which includes an overnight guestroom one night, four course meal at The Oxhead Tavern for two and Breakfast for two in our Greenhouse Restaurant.
This package is available between
2/13/19 - 2/16/19.
or
Dinner for Two at The Oxhead Tavern
Thanks to our friends at the Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center!
or
"A Basket of Services" including Car Detailing at
"Just the Details"
Thanks to The Center of Hope!
Register for Fun at Five by
email
or phone.
508-347-2761
Cost is $10 for Members who pre-register,
$15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.
We would LOVE to see you there!
Thank you to our
February Fun at Five Sponsor!
The Center of Hope
The Center of Hope Foundation has been servicing local individuals with disabilities for more
than 60 years.
The Center of Hope Foundation provides people with disabilities and their families the resources, services and opportunities to be contributing members of their communities, and to achieve the most fulfilling and meaningful lives possible.
Did you know...
The Center of Hope operates several small Service Businesses employing and supporting people with disabilities that we can use every day including:
All Manners of Banners & Signs
Honest Town Postal & Print
Hope Sweet Hope
The Daily Grind
Yards of Hope
and more...
Visit the website and check the Agency Businesses tab to see them all!
100 Foster Street, Southbridge
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2019 Chamber Scholarships: Apply Now!
The Chamber of Central Mass South is now accepting applications for the 2019 CMS Chamber Scholarships. You may download the application to apply below.
Typically, three $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year. The final decision is subject to our Board of Directors approval.
Scholarships are disbursed directly to the student upon presentation of grades from first semester completed after the award is announced and a minimum 3.0 GPA attained. Students must be a resident or student within the towns served by the Chamber of Central Mass South.
For information call 508-347-2761. The Chamber does not discriminate against an applicant because of race, color, sex/gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness.
DEADLINE: Return the completed application, transcript, recommendations and student essay by April 1, 2019 to Scholarship Committee, Chamber of Central Mass South, 46 Hall Rd., Sturbridge, MA 01566
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Welcome New Members!
Please join us as we welcome the newest Members to the Chamber of Central Mass South!
Deb K Hypnosis
Hypnosis/EFT/Coaching
Going from Survive to Thrive.
511 Main Street, Sturbridge MA
508-579-6314
Vocero Hispano Newspaper, Inc.
Hispanic Language Weekly Newspaper
Circulated statewide at over 400 locations
44 Hamilton Street, Southbridge MA
508-792-1942
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Remember... MEMBER TO MEMBER!
We THANK YOU for KEEPING IT LOCAL...
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7 FREE Online Business Resources at Your Library
Presented by: Becky Plimpton
Director, Joshua Hyde Library, Sturbridge, MA
Tuesday, February 26 at Noon
Chamber Conference Room
46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
FREE for CMS Chamber Members, $15 for non-Members.
Space is Limited! Please RSVP.
Feel free to bring your lunch. Use our microwave to heat it up! Relax, learn and grow with us!
Help! Where can I find...? There is a ton of information available online to support your business - and it's free through your library.
- Looking for an online course to improve your negotiating skills, business budgeting, or how to build a website with WordPress?
- Need to learn some Spanish phrases specifically for business?
- Wondering what the best printer is to buy for your business?
- Tired of paying for an online subscription to Fast Company or Entrepreneur?
Becky Plimpton, library director at the Joshua Hyde Public Library in Sturbridge, will show you how to access the resources to answer these and many other business related questions with your library card. Don't have a library card? We can give you one at this workshop!
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Annual Meeting with US Congressman Richard Neal
The Chamber is most grateful to Congressman Richard Neal for spending time and sharing his views with our Members and guests at our Annual Meeting that took place on January 23, 2019. Thank you as well to the fabulous staff of Table 3 Restaurant Group and The Barn at Wight Farm for a warm welcome and a tasty lunch! Special thanks to North Brookfield Savings Bank for sponsoring the Chamber of Central Mass South Annual Meeting!
Hot off the Press: We also released and distributed our
2019 Annual Report and the
2019 Member Directory & Regional Guide to our guests at the Annual Meeting. If you'd like some copies, come on by our office or
email Alix and she will bring some to you.
(pictured: The Congressman speaking with members from North Brookfield Savings Bank in the foreground. l-r: Donna Boulanger, Kim Cobb, Andrea Healy and Patty Ostrout.)
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Would you like to get more out of your Chamber? Consider joining one of our committees. Our committees are a vital part of making our programs and services happen. They are also a fantastic way to build relationships with other business people in the area and strengthen your own business network or professional resume.
Two of our committees meet each month, and the third meets every other month, typically for one hour. Between meetings there may be a few light tasks to advance the interests of the membership. The options are:
Promotions Committee - typically meets the last Wednesday of the month at 4 pm at The Duck. They plan the Fun at 5s, Annual Meeting, Clambake, discuss tourism marketing, Chamber marketing, the Job Fair, Membership Directory, our Brimfield booth and the like. Next meeting will be February 27.
Education Committee - typically meets the first Friday of the month at noon at the Chamber. They plan our Brown Bag Seminars, larger seminars, and legislative events. Next meeting will be March 1.
Membership Committee - typically meets every other month on the second Thursday at 2:30 at the Chamber. They plan recruitment and retention strategies, and coordinate 2-3 New Member Orientations per year. Next meeting will be 3/14.
If you would like to join one of our committees, please reach out to Alix at
[email protected]. You'll be glad you did!
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Be Visible, Stay Visible: Marketing For Members Only Packages for 2019
The Chamber's Marketing For Members Only packages for 2019 are available to be reserved!
These packages include low cost advertising opportunities using all the Chamber's channels.
Crossroads NEWS and EVENTS ads
Chamber Website Homepage banner ads
Dedicated Email blasts
Featured Member Spotlight in the Chamber Corner of Southbridge News
Purchase individual items or a comprehensive package to keep you visible all year long.
with questions or to get started.
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Cornerstone Bank Donates To the Dudley-Charlton Education Foundation
Pictured here, L to R: DCEF Board Members Meghann Dean and Erin Lefebvre; DCEF President John A. Grondalski; Cornerstone Bank Charlton Branch Manager and DCEF Vice President Sabrina L. Webb; and Cornerstone Bank EVP/Chief Administrative Officer and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee Susan A. Gunnell
Cornerstone Bank is pleased to announce its recent donation of $2,500 to the Dudley-Charlton Education Foundation (DCEF), in support of its mission to provide innovative and creative learning opportunities for the district's seven public schools.
The Dudley-Charlton Education Foundation promotes educational excellence by strengthening community support and funding programs that encourage innovation and enrichment throughout the district. DCEF offers grants to create programs that foster leadership, creativity and advanced problem-solving skills.
"Every student deserves to have access to a good education," commented Susan A. Gunnell, Cornerstone Bank EVP/Chief Administrative Officer and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee. "We are pleased to assist the DCEF and help them continue funding programs and projects for our local schools."
About Cornerstone Bank:
Cornerstone Bank is an independent, mutual savings bank serving the residents, businesses, and communities throughout Central Massachusetts from offices in Charlton, Holden, Leicester, Rutland, Southbridge, Spencer, Sturbridge, Warren, Webster 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. For more information, visit online at
cornerstonebank.com, on Facebook or call 800-939-9103.
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Yelena Samofalov, M.D., Joins Harrington Physician Services
Pediatrics Practice
 Harrington Physician Services is pleased to welcome Dr. Yelena Samofalov to its pediatrics practice in Southbridge.
Dr. Samofalov will join Dr.'s Cynthia Wilson-Grillo and Diana Rabkina and Nurse practitioner Ariel Bullock in Suite 102 of the Medical Arts building in Southbridge. Dr. Samofalov will treat pediatric patients of all ages, including newborns.
Board certified in pediatric medicine, Dr. Samofalov is a native of Ukraine. She has more than 10 years of experience. Her most recent position was at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Dr. Samofalov completed her medical degree at Kiev Medical Institute in Kiev, Ukraine. She then went on to complete her residency at Children's Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark New Jersey when she came to the United States. She is fluent in English, Ukrainian and Russian.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Samofalov, please call their office at 508-765-7860.
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WANTED
Norcom Mortgage is on the hunt for licensed and experienced Loan Officers.
Do you have 2+ years of MORTGAGE EXPERIENCE?
Do you have a solid knowledge of FHA, CONVENTIONAL & VA LOANS?
*WE ARE NOW OFFERING REVERSE MORTGAGE LENDING*
INTERESTED?
CONTACT KRISTEN WALTHER
774.241.0770
LEARN MORE BY VISITING US AT
Please share this information with your friends and colleagues who may have an interest!
Thank you!
This is not an offer to make a loan or to make a loan or any particular terms. All loan applicants must qualify under underwriting requirements and satisfy all contingencies of loan approval. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. NMLS ID #71655 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
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Harrington Recovery Services Welcomes Sarah Calnan, D.O.
 Dr. Sarah Calnan has joined Harrington Recovery Services, providing outpatient behavioral health treatment for adults.
Dr. Calnan will work in Harrington's Behavioral Health office in Putnam, CT, offering outpatient therapy and treatment options.
To schedule an appointment please call (860) 821-2985.
Dr. Calnan received her medical degree from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Most recently, she practiced at the Institute of Living at Hartford Hospital.
Dr. Calnan has presented several presentations on drug addiction, substance use and childhood trauma. She is also a member of several professional affiliations, including the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, American Psychiatric Association and Family Medicine Education Consortium.
Harrington Behavioral Health provides a full range of services for substance use disorder and addiction, including diagnostic evaluations, individual and group therapy and treatment programs. Its Connecticut outpatient office is located at 17 Kennedy Drive, Putnam, CT. An additional outpatient office is located in Southbridge, MA on Main Street.
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TLGV Opens New Grant Round
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) announces round two of a new small-grant program, the Heritage Transaction Fund, for non-profits, towns and cities in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor.
The grants will be awarded to projects that will permanently protect significant historic properties or structures, agriculture or forested lands, important wildlife habitat or open spaces suitable for passive, nature-based recreation. The grant funds can be used for closing costs such as filing fees, title work, attorney fees, surveys, appraisals and other costs associated with projects that are "nearing the home stretch" but need additional funds to complete the deal.
"We're trying to fill in the gaps for organizations with this grant program," said Lois Bruinooge, executive director of TLGV. "We think it will pair well with other funding opportunities and be helpful in addressing the costs federal, state and private grants won't fund. This grant can provide that extra funding to get a project to the finish line."
TLGV is a non-profit, member-supported organization charged with oversight of The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor. The National Heritage Corridor covers 35 towns and cities from Preston, CT in the south to East Brookfield, MA in the north.
Grants will range from $2,000 to $3,000 and must be spent within a year of approval. The deadline for grant applications is 4 p.m. March 29. All applications must be received or postmarked by the deadline. Applications should be sent to LyAnn Graff at
[email protected]
or mailed to P.O. Box 29, Danielson CT, 06239-0029.
Funds will be dispersed on a reimbursement basis and must be matched at least 1:1 by cash or in-kind contributions. All grant applications will be reviewed by a committee and then approved by TLGV's Executive Committee and/or Board of Directors. To learn more about the grant program details visit thelastgreenvalley.org. To discuss a proposal prior to submission, please contact Lois Bruinooge at 860-774-3300 or
[email protected]
The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. The Last Green Valley, Inc. works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. Together we can care for it, enjoy it and pass it on!
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Cornerstone Bank and Employees Donate $45,000 to the United Way
Featured here with Cornerstone Bank employees are representatives from the United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton (UW SSC). From left: UW SSC's Board President Jessica Brigham, Board Vice President and Campaign Chairman April Parzych, and Executive Director Mary O'Coin; Cornerstone Bank's EVP/Chief Administrative Officer and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee Susan A. Gunnell, Webster Branch Manager and UW SSC Board Member Angela L. Sarna, VP/Controller and UW SSC Treasurer Scott M. Dungey, and Bank President and Treasurer Todd M. Tallman.
Cornerstone Bank and its employees have contributed over $45,000 to three local United Way organizations. During the recent holiday season, the Bank held a company-wide pledge campaign where employees were given the opportunity to donate to the non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the needs for education, income, and healthcare for communities across the globe.
The money raised included employee contributions of $23,551, as well as a $22,000 corporate gift.
Three different United Way organizations were supported through the Cornerstone Bank campaign: United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton; United Way of Webster and Dudley; and United Way of Central Massachusetts.
"Once again, our employees have come together to help others," stated Cornerstone Bank VP/Controller and UW SSC Treasurer Scott M. Dungey.
"We are pleased to support the United Way," commented Cornerstone Bank President and Treasurer Todd M. Tallman. "This donation demonstrates our generosity and commitment to the communities we serve."
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Two Area Executives Added to Board for
The Employers Association
of the Northeast
Meredith Wise, President of the Employers Association for the Northeast (EANE), today announced the addition of two new members -- Marilyn Lopez-Haddad (at left) and Pattie Hallberg (right) -- to the EANE Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2019, for three-year terms.
The EANE board represents a cross section of professionals throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island who provide certified expertise in the areas of business, human resources, and financial management. "Our board members are leaders in their professions and their experience guides our vision of creating successful workplaces throughout the Northeast," EANE President Meredith Wise said.
"Our newest additions to the board have been active members of EANE, and have demonstrated a commitment to the best practices that develop employees and give organizations a competitive advantage."
The new board members are:
Marilyn Lopez-Haddad, Vice President of Human Resources, joined the Seven Hills Foundation senior leadership team in January 2008. Lopez-Haddad oversees the HR office and Seven Hills Corporate College. She provides leadership in the areas of employee relations, recruitment and retention compensation and benefits, learning and development. Seven Hills is an integrated health and human services network based in Worcester, MA.
Before joining Seven Hills, Lopez-Haddad worked for various municipalities in Connecticut as the head of HR, personnel and labor relations. She also worked as a Social Security Disability Associate in Florida. Most recently, Lopez-Haddad worked as an adjunct professor at Clark University in Worcester where she taught Global Talent Development.
Lopez-Haddad holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Fairfield University, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law. She was admitted to practice law in Connecticut and Massachusetts. She is a certified executive and career coach and has also acquired the SPHR and SHRM-SCP certifications.
Pattie Hallberg is the Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts (GSCWM) headquartered in Worcester and Holyoke, MA. Hallberg joined GSCWM as CEO in 2008 to lead the merger of the three Girl Scout councils into one organization with a commitment to developing girl's leadership potential. Under her direction, GSCWM has emerged as a leader in central and western Massachusetts in advocacy for girls.
Hallberg is a commissioner on the Hampden County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. She serves as a co-chair for the Investing in Girls Alliance in Worcester, and is a founding member of the advisory committee for the Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact and an advisory board member of the Young Women's Leadership Institute with the Women's Fund of Western Massachusetts.
Hallberg serves as a board member and member of the finance committee for New England Public Radio (NEPR). She is a member of the Women's Suffrage Celebration Coalition of Massachusetts and a member of the Western Mass Women Presidents' Organization. She is on the Advisory Board of the Institute for Women's Leadership at Nichols College and a volunteer for the Springfield Schools Read-Aloud Program. In 2013, she received the Outstanding Women in Business Award from the Worcester Business Journal.
About EANE:
With more than a century devoted to creating successful workplaces, EANE offers members access to a powerful network of experienced HR professionals, providing talent, training and tools to retain, develop and engage employees. Its reach extends throughout the Northeast to over 900 organizations - ranging in size from Fortune 1000 companies to one employee -- in industries including manufacturing, finance, health and human services, education, retail and beyond. With a staff of 20+ professionals, four offices in three states, and over a dozen training centers, EANE offers members a local connection with a national perspective.
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Cornerstone Bank Donates to Tri-Community Exchange Club
(Pictured here, L to R) Tri-Community Exchange Club Members Laurie DeMartino, Susan Cepeda, Miguel Cepeda, and Exchange Club Treasurer Lee Standrowicz; Cornerstone Bank AVP/Senior Branch Manager and Exchange Club President Sheri A. Bibinski, and Bank EVP/Chief Administrative Officer and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee Susan A. Gunnell
Cornerstone Bank recently made a $1,500 donation to the Tri-Community Exchange Club. This donation will benefit the Club's Holiday Program, as well as their other programs of service.
The Tri-Community Exchange Club is a local service club that gives back to the communities of Charlton, Sturbridge and Southbridge. The Exchange Club's programs include the ACE Program (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) recognizing high school seniors that have overcome obstacles, Young Citizenship Awards Program recognizing 6th grade students who give back to their community, and a Holiday Program that provides gifts to local children and families in need during the holiday season.
"The Tri-Community Exchange Club gives back to our local communities in many ways," said Cornerstone Bank EVP/Chief Administrative Officer and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee Susan A. Gunnell. "We are pleased to assist with funding their many programs of service."
The Exchange Club's largest fundraising event, their 10th annual Chowder Fest, will take place on Sunday, February 10, 2019, from noon to 3:00pm at the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center. All proceeds will benefit families in need living in Charlton, Sturbridge and Southbridge. For more details, please contact Tri-Community Exchange Club President Sheri Bibinski at
[email protected].
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Announces Four Promotions
North Brookfield Savings Bank is pleased to announce the recent promotions of four employees; Ann Brady, Samantha Hammond, Rachael Slozak and Joseph Ribeiro, who have consistently displayed their commitment to the customers, communities and overall success of the Bank.
"We are so pleased to announce these very well-earned promotions and to have these individuals continue to grow with North Brookfield Savings Bank," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO Donna Boulanger. "They are dedicated employees who are committed to providing a wonderful banking experience for all our customers and care for our communities. I know they will continue to be valuable members to North Brookfield Savings Bank."
Ann Brady
, of Wheelwright, has been promoted to Assistant Vice President/Controller. Brady will be responsible for preparing regulatory reporting on a monthly and quarterly basis, preparing and executing trades from the investment portfolio, preparing reports for the board and senior management, reviewing all general ledger activity for accuracy, and reviewing and fine-tuning accounting procedures.
Brady has previously served at North Brookfield Savings Bank as an Accounting Clerk, Senior Accountant, and Assistant Controller. She has more than 18 years of experience in banking and has received a General Banking Diploma from The Center for Financial Training. In addition, she is currently working to obtain an Advanced Financial Services Diploma. Brady provides community support by volunteering annually to serve dinner to cancer survivors at the Quaboag Valley Relay for Life Survivors Dinner and by proudly walking with fellow employees in the Belchertown Fair Parade.
"I feel fortunate to work at a company where I enjoy my work, my peers and management, and where I am part of a wonderful and kind community," said Assistant Vice President/Controller Ann Brady. "I look forward to learning in my new position, being responsible for more high-level functions and continuing to give back to our communities."
Samantha Hammond
, of Charlton, has been promoted to Loan Servicing Manager. Hammond will be responsible for overseeing the loan servicing department, reviewing loans that have been booked, as well as working closely with the North Brookfield Savings Bank residential lending and retail banking departments.
Hammond joined North Brookfield in 2014 when Family First Bank merged with North Brookfield Savings Bank and most recently served as the Senior Loan Servicing Representative. She has more than 6 years of experience in the banking industry and is a graduate of Holyoke Community College. Samantha gives back to the Bank's local communities by participating in the Belchertown Fair Parade and the Ware Flair Parade, and in addition volunteers for the East Brookfield Independence Day Celebration and the West Brookfield Asparagus and Heritage Festival, among others.
"I am excited to help my team improve upon their already strong skillsets as well as encourage and foster learning opportunities within additional areas of loan servicing," said Loan Servicing Manager Samantha Hammond. "I am most looking forward to working with my team and peers to provide our customers with the very best service possible."
Rachael Slozak
, of Warren, has been promoted to Branch Manager. Slozak will be responsible for overseeing the teller line and all team members of the Three Rivers branch location. Furthermore, she will provide exceptional service to customers, help with deposit and loan product inquiries, open accounts, take loan applications and ensure the branch follows the banks policies and procedures.
Slozak joined North Brookfield Savings Bank in 2014 when Family First Bank merged with North Brookfield Savings Bank and most recently served as the Assistant Branch Manager. She has more than 6 years of experience in the banking industry and is a graduate of Holyoke Community College. She has also received a Fundamentals of Banking Certificate from the New England College of Business. Slozak is very active within the Three Rivers and surrounding communities, volunteering for the Three Rivers Right TRACK Festival, West Brookfield Asparagus and Heritage Festival and the West Brookfield White Christmas Open House in past years. She has also decorated the North Brookfield Savings Bank tree for the PHCC Tree and Wreath Festival and participated in the Ware Flair Parade.
"I am eager to grow in my new position and to guide my team members so we can continue to provide the best service to North Brookfield Savings Bank's customers and the Three Rivers community," said Branch Manager Rachael Slozak. "I'm looking forward to all the new challenges and accomplishments I can meet and achieve with my new position."
Joseph Ribeiro
, of Ludlow, has been promoted to Supervisor/IRA Specialist. Ribeiro will be responsible for overseeing all of our IRA accounts and any transactions processed through those accounts, as well as opening and closing the branch, supervising tellers, and interacting with customers on a day-to-day basis to provide the best service possible.
Ribeiro joined North Brookfield Savings Bank in 2017 as a Teller and quickly advanced to his most recent role as Teller/IRA Specialist. In addition to his two years at North Brookfield Savings Bank he has 8+ years of experience in the service industry in customer facing positions and received a Fundamentals of Banking Certificate from the New England College of Business. His commitment to the communities the Bank serves is evident through his volunteerism efforts for the Three Rivers Right TRACK Artisan Fair, Celebrate Palmer, the East Brookfield Independence Day Celebration, in addition to participating in the Ware Flair Parade and assisting with tree decoration for the PHCC Tree and Wreath Festival. Ribeiro also proudly served dinner to cancer survivors at the Quaboag Valley Relay for Life Survivors Dinner.
"I am excited for my new position and for the chance to expand and share my knowledge of IRA accounts with customers," said Supervisor/IRA Specialist Joseph Ribeiro. "I'm looking forward to the experience I will gain in my new role and growing within North Brookfield Savings Bank."
Joseph Ribeiro can be reached at 2060 Main St., Three Rivers, MA, or by calling 413-283-5681, or by emailing
[email protected].
Rachael Slozak can be reached at 2060 Main St., Three Rivers, MA, or by calling 508-637-7640, or by emailing
[email protected].
Ann Brady can be reached at 35 Summer St., North Brookfield, MA, or by calling 508-637-7418, or by emailing
[email protected].
Samantha Hammond can be reached at 35 Summer St., North Brookfield, MA, or by calling 508-637-7409, or by emailing
[email protected].
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Do you know about MASSCOR?
The Commonwealth's prison industries program was officially recognized and statutorily authorized in 1887. Over the last 128 years the program's mission of subsidizing the cost of incarceration while providing a meaningful vocational training experience has remained virtually unchanged.
A decade ago, the Department of Correction made a commitment to reconstitute the correctional industries program, which was rebranded as MassCor, shorthand for Massachusetts Correctional Industries. Instilling the importance of work ethics and vocational skills to over 500 offenders, MassCor operates 17 manufacturing operations within seven institutions.
MassCor's customers consist of Massachusetts residents, Businesses, Camps, Nursing Homes, Schools, Cities, Towns, Hospitals, Police, and Fire Departments, Social Service Agencies, Veterans agencies and others who can reap benefits from our service of providing high quality products for a modest price.
Shops operated by MASSCOR
Binder Shop, Clothing Shop, Embroidery Shop, Engraving Shop, Furniture Assembly Shop, Flag Shop, Janitorial Shop, Furniture Shop, Mattress Shop, Metal Shop, Optical Shop, Plate Shop, Print Shop, Sign Shop, Silk Screen Shop, Upholstery Shop, Validation Shop, Wood Shop.
MassCor is proud to offer their products and services under these available Statewide Contracts.
Buy MassCor and Never Bid Again.
Learn more by visiting MassCor online (
www.Masscor.us) or call 1-800-222-2211 or 1-508-850-1070.
Thanks to Sue Gregory, Executive Director of
Hitchcock Academy, for letting us know about the excellent experience she has had using MASSCOR.
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"There is always in February some one day, at least,
when one smells the yet distant, but surely coming, summer."
-Gertrude Jekyll
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260 West Main Street, Route 9, West Brookfield, MA
Rich with history, the
Salem Cross Inn
is a restored 18th century farmhouse
nestled on 600 acres of New England countryside.
DID YOU KNOW... Yankee Magazine has chosen SALEM CROSS INN
as the "Best New England Cuisine" in Massachusetts!
Valentine's Day Dinner & Fireplace Feasts in February!
Fireplace Feast dates: February 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 & 24
Join us for a special dining event as the Innkeepers at the Salem Cross Inn announce their series of 1700's style feasts, prepared on the open hearth of a great fieldstone fireplace. Relax by the fire or lend a hand as dinner is prepared for you in colonial style. Stir the chowder as it bubbles in our cast iron cauldron. See your prime rib, roasted 'to a turn,' as the only known authentic Roasting Jack still operating in America rotates 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. Shake off the chill with warm mulled wine or cider upon your return. Browse our extensive collection of colonial and federal period American antiques. The Fireplace Feast makes a thoughtful and unique gift for special friends or deserving associates.
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.
Love is in the air, and it's time to start thinking about Valentine's Day!
Bring your significant other and have dinner with us at Salem Cross Inn for Valentine's Day.
We will be serving our Dinner Menu from 5-9 pm on Thursday, February 14.
Call us today at 508-867-2345 to make your reservations.
Winter Schedule:
JANUARY and FEBRUARY 2019
Friday (Lunch & Dinner) - 11:30am to 9:00pm
Saturday (Dinner) - 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Sunday (Dinner) - 12 Noon to 8:00pm
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Winterfest at Rapscallion
The first of four annual seasonal festivals, Winterfest marks the release of Rapscallion's annual Winterfest beer, a double maple brown ale, with live music, Rapscallion's on-site food truck and a weekend-long party! Visit drinkrapscallion.com.
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Visitors to Old Sturbridge Village in January and February will be treated to a festive story experience in which residents of a 19th century New England town prepare for a seasonal celebration - a winter ball, filled with "warmth and cheer!" Each trade shop, home, and business on the Village Common will be brought to life by costumed historians as they talk about how 19th- century folks would have prepared for such a lively event. While such occasions were relatively rare, rural balls most typically took place in winter when there was less pressing work on the farm. Visitors will gain insight into how people in early New England planned for an evening of dancing, socializing, and fun.
No detail will be overlooked as visitors will see how period clothing was tailored, watch a printer prepare invitations to the ball, play games, learn about the latest fashions, listen to 19th-century music, and enjoy popular libations of the time. Guests will also learn about early hairstyles and cooking for company on an open hearth.
Please note that during this time, certain exhibits in the countryside and mill areas (such as the Bixby House and Blacksmith shop) will not be open and staffed.
Warm Up and Enjoy Hot Soup and Speciality Cocktails in the Bullard Tavern.
Open 11:30 am - 3:00 pm.
$13.00 per person (includes tax)
Includes:
Choice of Soup - Beef Stew (gluten-free), Clam Chowder or Gourd Soup (gluten-free and vegetarian)
Dinner roll and butter (gluten-free bread available upon request)
Dessert - 2 options to choose from - Chef's choice of a warm homemade fruit dessert (such as Apple Crisp, Mixed Berry Crisp, or Cobbler) or Homemade bread pudding. Both served with whipped topping. There will be a gluten-free option.
Cocktails:
We will be offering 3 specialty cocktails at the bar for an additional fee.
Times: The Village will be open 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
Cost: Included with daytime admission, a season pass, or Village membership
The Village will be open daily February 16 - 24 (school vacation week) | 9:30 am - 4:00 pm.
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road
Sturbridge MA 01566
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The Perfect Dinner Conversation
 Interested in a career that offers
independence, flexibility and unlimited
earning potential? Consider a career as
a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones.
Join local Financial Advisors for dinner as they
share their experiences growing a business.
You'll learn about our unique business model,
our extensive training programs and our network
of supportive colleagues across the country.
If you demonstrate leadership skills and strong
initiative, we can teach you how to build a
financial services practice.
Join us for this event and take the first step toward a rewarding career.
Date: Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Time: 6:00PM - 8:00PM
PLEASE NOTE NEW LOCATION: Avellino, 502 Main Street, Fiskdale, MA 01518
Edward Jones does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
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Stageloft Theater Presents
HATE MAIL
A Comedy by Kira Obolensky & Bill Corbett
February 14, 15 & 16
Thursday & Friday @ 8pm, Saturday @ 2pm
Presented in collaboration with JEMS Theater Company
Join Stageloft for their 25th season and enjoy another year filled with laughter, music and inspirational performances!
Hate Mail will have a limited run of just three performances: Thursday, February 14 & Friday, February 15 at 8pm and Saturday, February 16 at 2pm. Audience members attending on Thursday, February 14 will receive special Valentine's refreshments at no additional charge. Tickets are $20, $18 for seniors (60+), students, and military and can be purchased online at
www.stageloft.org. Advance ticket reservations can be made by calling Stageloft at 508-347-9005. All seating is reserved and our theater is fully accessible. Please call Stageloft to inquire about ticket discounts for groups of 20 or more.
Starring real-life married acting couple extraordinaire Kaitlyn Ekstrom-Doig and Nick Doig, Hate Mail is an epistolary play something like Love Letters, with two actors reading letters and other correspondence, but it's a little wilder and more hysterically funny. It tells the story of Preston, a spoiled rich kid who meets his match in Dahlia, an angst-filled artist. Their worlds collide when Preston sends a complaint letter that gets Dahlia fired from her job, and then there's no turning back. The play follows their increasingly crazed correspondence as they move from hate to love, and then right back again.
Presented by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc.
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Preparing Your Estate Plan
You're Invited
It's a topic people tend to put off or ignore, but one of the most important things you can do is to develop a sound estate plan. Doing so lets you take a giant step toward a more secure future for yourself and generations to come.
Attend our
Preparing Your Estate Plan presentation and you'll learn more about:
- What to consider when creating your will
- The benefits of trusts in estate planning
- How to help reduce taxes on your estate
- How insurance can help protect your family
Josephine Veglia from Durbin & Veglia will be available to answer questions.
We hope you will join us. Please call Mariah from The Overlook at 508-434-2318 by 02/05/2019.
Lunch will be served.
Friday, February 15, 2019
11:30AM - 1:30PM
The Overlook
88 Masonic Home Road
Charlton, MA 01507
Event will be held in the Great Room
Jeff Burdick, AAMS®
Financial Advisor
419 Main Street
Sturbridge, MA 01566
508-347-1420
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal a
dvice. You should consult with a qualified tax advisor or legal professional regarding your specific situation.
Member SIPC
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MOVIE MADNESS! Kids Week at Sturbridge Host Hotel
Feb 17, 2019 - Feb 22, 2019
Don't miss Kids Week at the Sturbridge Host Hotel during February School Vacation Week!
February 17-22.
Kids Week 2019! We are rolling out the Red Carpet for Movie Nights and movie themed activities! Free popcorn and soda!
Superhero Art, Glowing Sugar Skills, Fruit Kabobs, Mummy Luminaries, Frozen Freeze Tag, Day of the Dead Pinata, Special Entertainers, and Beach Party with a DJ and MUCH MORE!
$124 per night. Package includes: Overnight stay: Breakfast for Two Adults per room and all activities for the day of your stay. Kids under 12 eat FREE!
CALL THE HOST TODAY FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO: 508-347-7393.
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Collective Arts Beer Dinner
February 21, 2019 at 6:30 pm
Collective Arts Brewing is a grassroots craft brewery that aims to fuse the creativity of craft beer with the inspired talents of emerging artists and musicians. Collective Arts Brewing was founded on two beliefs: The first that creativity fosters creativity. And the second, that creativity yields delicious pints. They feature limited-edition works of art on their beer cans and labels, and they work to make sure the liquid on the inside is as diverse and creative as the artists they profile.
Their brewery is located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and this is where they brew everything from their flagship IPA Ransack the Universe to our World Beer Cup-winning Stranger than Fiction porter.
Head Chef Dan Finger and his culinary team have also become known for fusing creativity with local foods with amazing results. Pairing the Duck's culinary talents with Collective Arts' specialty brews is a sure-fire recipe for an incredible night to remember. These events are limited and sell out quickly so make your reservation today by calling
The Duck at 508-347-2321. $55 per person, not including tax and gratuity.
 Valentine's Day Reservations: With the Valentine's holiday landing on a Thursday night this year, it's not too early to be thinking about making reservations at your favorite Table 3 restaurant. In addition to special Valentine's menus, our regular menus will also be available. Make your reservations now at
508-347-2321 for the Duck and Avellino, and
508-347-5800 for Cedar Street Grille.
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Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Thursday Evenings, 7:00-8:15pm
CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH CONFERENCE ROOM
46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
Village Toastmasters is a local group focused on helping its members improve their public speaking and leadership skill while building confidence in their abilities.
As of Thursday, April 27, 2017, Village Toastmasters will meet every Thursday from 7:00-8:15 pm
at the offices of the Chamber of Central Mass South, located at 46 Hall Road, Sturbridge.
Guests are always welcome!!
Please arrive 15 minutes early (6:45pm) as meetings start promptly.
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Worcester 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group
NETWORKING WORKS!! Your AGE really is your EDGE!!
Funded by AARP and Managed by MCOA, we have expanded our 50+ Job Seekers Regional Networking Group program to support and assist people in the 50+ demographic living in the greater Worcester area and looking for a new job, a totally new career direction, re-entering the workforce after an employment gap or looking for a Second Act career.
Meet and network with fellow job seekers at our bi-weekly networking group meetings.
Learn how to Network!
New Topic at each Meeting!
Come join Melody Beach, an experienced Human Resource professional who is the Facilitator for this collaborative Networking Group.
Start your journey towards self-realization, re-invention and transformation!
WHO: Mature Job Seekers! That's YOU! (50 years of age +)
WHEN: Meetings are on the
2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Doors open at 1:30pm
for registration and casual networking so come early! And often!
WHERE: Worcester Senior Center located at 128 Providence St., Worcester, MA (508-799-1232)
Did you know: 85% of all jobs are found through NETWORKING!! REALLY!!
For more Information and Pre-Registration (required), please feel free to contact:
The Worcester COA at 508-799-1232.
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Click on the image to browse our catalog of Coggno training courses!
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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 [email protected] if you have any questions or to arrange a pickup. Thank you for your contributions!
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Important Dates to Save!
February 2:
Groundhog Day
February 2-3: Winterfest at Rapscallion
February 8: Winter Scholarship Gala
February 10: Chowder Fest
February 12: Fun at Five at Sturbridge Host Hotel with The Center of Hope
February 13: Edward Jones Career Dinner
February 14: Valentine's Day
February 17-22: KIDS WEEK at The Sturbridge Host Hotel
February 18: Presidents Day
February 26: Brown Bag Seminar '
7 FREE Online Business Resources at Your Library'
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VISIT US ONLINE FOR LOCAL EVENTS AND MORE
www.cmschamber.org
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