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Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
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Executive Committee
Jocelyn Callis
Chair
Jessica Bettencourt
1st Vice Chair
Cindy Howard
Immediate Past Chair
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Board Members
Michael Checkosky
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 August and CROSSROADS NEWS!
The last full month of summer is packed with goodness including Redcoats & Rebels at Old Sturbridge Village, the oldest continuously running church auction in the country, a 100th birthday celebration at Brookfield Orchards, as well as our region's only major geocaching event, C-Mass Geofest! We highlight these and many more cool events and share news items from the Chamber and our Members in this issue! New Members and veterans alike are invited to our free September Orientation session designed to help you make the most of your Chamber Membership. We'll be decorating cupcakes at our September Brown Bag, too! We hope you can make it!
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! Extra for Experts! Connect with us on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest for more from your Chamber! |
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 Hit the Trails at C-MASS GEOFEST!
August 15-19, 2018
C-MASS GEOFEST, our region's only major geocaching
festival, returns for more fun in the summer of 2018!
Check out the promo on YouTube!
Join us August 15-19 in and around Sturbridge as enthusiastic geocachers comb our region in search of geocaches. Other events will entertain children and families between forays onto our abundant trails and scenic spaces! In our fourth year, we're planning another leap forward for turnout and activities!
OUR NEW MAIN EVENT VENUE: Westville Recreation Area. Westville Lake is an impoundment of the Quinebaug River, created and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and straddling the boundary between Sturbridge and Southbridge. There are great picnic areas, open spaces and woods trails, plus picnic shelters and launches for canoes and kayaks. C-MASS Geofest takes place in many locations in Sturbridge.
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Get the Most from Your Membership!
New Member Orientation
September 19, 8:30AM TO 9:45AM
The Chamber offers these 75-minute sessions to help our new members and people who may be considering joining the Chamber to maximize the benefits they receive from their membership. Veteran members are welcome to join in as well and get a refresher on all the benefits of being a Chamber Member. We are very pleased to invite you to participate the next session which will take place on the morning of Wednesday, September 19th in the Conference Room at the Chamber Office in Sturbridge.
The details of this
FREE program follow.
Please RSVP if you are able to attend.
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
SEPTEMBER 19, 8:30AM TO 9:45AM
(Please arrive at 8:15 for a prompt 8:30 start)
CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH CONFERENCE ROOM
46 HALL ROAD, STURBRIDGE, MA
AGENDA
Welcome
Introductions
My Chamber Experience
Maximizing Your Membership
Networking Exercise
CMS Referral Group
Venly
SCORE
Coggno
Advocacy
Affiliation with Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce
Committees
Questions & Answers
Closing
Coffee & Light Refreshments will be available.
We sincerely hope you will join us as we present these tools, tips, and strategies to help you get the very most out of your Chamber Membership. Feel free to give us a ring if you have any questions.
If you are able to attend, please RSVP
to Paulette via phone at 508-347-2761 or email
pjh@cmschamber.org
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If you are unable to attend this session but would like to be informed of future sessions, please let us know. Thank you for your time and we look forward to seeing you soon!
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Welcome New Members!
Please join us in welcoming our newest Members.
Anastasi Insurance Agency, Inc.
Personal & Commercial Insurance Agency
4 Brookfield Road, Charlton, MA
Baystate Dental of Sturbridge
Dental Office
OPENING SOON!
Ribbon Cutting on September 18!
100 Charlton Road, Suite 25, Sturbridge, MA
NEW Family-friendly Adventure Park
154 River Road West, Berlin, MA
Casino scheduled to open August 24, 2018.
One MGM Way, Springfield, MA
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Remember... MEMBER TO MEMBER!
We THANK YOU for KEEPING IT LOCAL...
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Let's Cake Decorate with Susan!
Presented by: Susan Gaulin of "Let's Cake Decorate"
Tuesday, September 25 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!
Susan will introduce you to her world of sugar art and her business
"Let's Cake Decorate."
Even if you feel that cake decorating isn't 'your thing' you'll see that Susan's classes can be designed for anyone, because everyone likes entertainment! Classes can be arranged as simply entertaining fun, all the way to more technique-specific classes. It's a great activity for co-worker events as well as family and friends' get-togethers, especially for the upcoming holidays!
Come get a taste of this edible art as she guides you step-by-step to decorate two cupcakes with autumn buttercream flowers that you can take home and enjoy! Learn how fun and easy decorating can be!
 About the Presenter: Susan Gaulin
Hi Everyone! My name is Susan and I'm thrilled to share with you my love of the beautiful sugar art of cake decorating! I've been decorating for 25+ years since I first enrolled in the Wilton Method of Cake Decorating Courses as a teenager. At that time, they were offered as correspondence courses that were sent in the mail. I can still feel the excitement I had when that big box of decorating tools and instructions arrived at the doorstep! I couldn't wait to dig in and practice!
Well, practice I did, over and over I would make those detailed roses and rosebuds. I practiced and learned enough to make my own wedding cake (what Cake Boss would call old-school) with pillars, fountain, staircases and all!
Although I still enjoy making occasional specialty cakes for friends and family, I realized the enjoyment of showing others how to decorate their own beautiful sweet creations. So eventually, after enrolling in many more skills and technique classes and training at the Wilton School (and raising four wonderful boys with many, many birthday cakes) I started my own business "Let's Cake Decorate" teaching classes throughout Central Massachusetts at various local venues, community centers, and private In-Your-Home Class/Parties.
I currently schedule routine classes at Charlton Arts & Activities Center, Hitchcock Academy, Bay Path High School Evening Classes, Seven Hills Foundation, along with private In-Your-Home Classes and occasionally other venues, libraries, and restaurants.
My favorite part of teaching is hearing a student look at their sweet decorated creation at the end of class and say, "I'm so proud of myself right now - I made this!"
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Harrington Black-Tie Fundraiser Nets $220,000
for Southbridge Emergency Department
Elise Wilson, RN, and her family attend "A Fare to Remember"
Members of the Harrington Emergency Department pose for a group photo.
Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola entertain the crowd at Mechanics Hall.
Harrington HealthCare System is celebrating a successful black-tie fundraiser held July 14 at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, which raised more than $200,000 toward the renovation of its Southbridge Emergency Department (ED).
The event featured tastings from more than a dozen local restaurants including Rovezzi's, Porterhouse, Baba Sushi, Mexicali, The Clambox, Metro Bistro and Burton's Grill. Coffee and dessert were provided by Sturbridge Coffee Roasters, Whoopie-Doo and Cupcakes Too, and The Publick House.
Guests Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola held a one-hour exclusive meet and greet for VIP ticket holders, then entertained all 500 attendees with a brief on-stage appearance that included autographing jerseys and replica Lombardi trophies. The signed memorabilia was auctioned off and raised more than $17,000.
Elise Wilson, the Harrington nurse who was stabbed at work by a patient in 2017, gave an emotional speech on stage later in the evening, encouraging everyone to support local healthcare and remember how fortunate they are to have a local Emergency Room.
"If I was anywhere else when the attack took place, I probably would not be here today. I am alive because of these people," Wilson said. "The next life they save could be yours."
Her speech preceded a Live Appeal to all guests, which surpassed the intended $25,000 goal in a matter of minutes.
The theme of the evening was Harrington Heroes, poignantly displayed by four-foot letters in illuminated marquee style on the center of the stage. A one minute video by Governor Charlie Baker was also shared with guests, as he commended the healthcare system on being a great partner in the Commonwealth, and offered his admiration for Elise in her recovery.
A ceremonial groundbreaking for the Southbridge ED will be held in September, but preliminary construction begins this month. The project is expected to take about 13 months to complete.
The last major renovation of the Southbridge ED occurred in 1998. Since then, the annual volume of visits has grown 23%, from approximately 22,000 to nearly 30,000.
This renovation will increase the number of exam rooms by three, expand capacity to serve 35,000 patients annually by adding 2,400 square feet and modernizing the existing 8,500 square feet through renovation. Patient flow, security and technology upgrades are also included in the plans.
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Harrington ER Construction Update (Southbridge Campus)
To Our Valued Patients, Visitors & Community:
Harrington has begun construction on its new Southbridge Emergency Department. This project has four distinct phases; the first is expected to take 6 months to complete. We acknowledge this is a very challenging project, and we are working diligently to do everything we can to accommodate our patients and visitors to minimize disruption. Our Emergency Department will remain open during the entire construction process, but modifications will be made for patient entrance, security and parking.
Beginning Friday, August 3rd, the current entrance to the ER will be closed off for construction
. Patients and visitors will be routed to a new temporary entrance adjacent to the construction area (see photo). We will continue to employ the same security protocols as the safety of our patients, visitors and employees remains a top priority.
We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding. Should you have any concerns when you arrive, please reach out to our Public Safety or ED staff; everyone is doing their best to make this process as smooth as possible. We will keep you updated as the phases progress on this project. We are all looking forward to the new Southbridge ED at the completion of this construction!
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Second Chance Facing Unprecedented Challenges in 2018
Fighting to Never Say No to a Second Chance
Patty is a 3-year-old lab mix with a congenital heart defect. Surgery can repair her heart but the estimated cost for her care is nearly $8000. Help give Patty a second chance at life by contributing to her
Second Chance Animal Services is no stranger to adversity. The nonprofit that grew from a small shelter to a pioneering pet services organization now encompassing three full service veterinary hospitals, two mobile adoption and veterinary units working in the community, a transport facility for pets arriving from out of state and satellite adoption facilities, has faced more than a few bumps in the road. 2018 has already presented many bumps, including numerous rescues arriving with great medical needs, water damage during renovations at the new Community Veterinary Hospital in Springfield, record-breaking attendance at area vaccine clinics and a drop in donations.
CEO Sheryl Blancato is proud of the work the organization does to help over 34,000 pets a year, but often loses sleep trying to figure out how to take care of all the pets in need that come to Second Chance. Blancato noted "In 2018, we are seeing an unprecedented number of rescued pets in need of great medical care like Cheeto, the orphaned Bengal kitten born at Second Chance after his mother was abandoned in distress during labor and Lelia, a gentle dog who arrived from Puerto Rico on a recent transport in dire need of eye surgery. Our caring and talented staff were able to save the kitten, though the mother's health was too far gone and sadly could not be saved, and Lelia came through surgery well and will be going to stay with a foster to continue her recovery. These are just a couple examples of the rescues we help each day. We are the advocates for pets in need and we never want to say no to a 'Second Chance.'"
"Second chances are not limited to rescues," added Blancato. "Every day, there are clients coming through the doors of our hospitals with pets that have extraordinary medical needs. We work hard to keep our prices affordable and to continue to offer subsidized pricing so that pet owners have options. Without the support of our generous donors, none of what we do would be possible."
Second Chance has never wavered in its mission to help pets in need. The Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Springfield and Worcester were created to provide affordable veterinary care for everyone, so that all pets have access to healthcare to enhance their lives and pets facing medical need can stay in the best place for them - with their loving owners. Second Chance hospitals are the only hospitals operated by an animal welfare organization in Massachusetts offering subsidized pricing for qualified individuals. The new, and much larger, Springfield location will enable the organization to meet the growing need in the area. Water damage from heavy rains in January set back the project slightly but the facility was able to hold its grand opening and open house on May 23rd.
Every spring, Second Chance goes out into the community to provide life-saving vaccines at local vaccine and microchip clinics. In 2018, the organization has seen a tremendous response to the clinics. At a recent clinic in Fitchburg, the line streamed down the street. The staff stayed well past the scheduled hours, vaccinating hundreds of pets.
The organization has seen a decline in the number of donations in 2018. It's too early to know whether this is a temporary trend, but concern is mounting. Second Chance relies solely on donations and grants to operate. In 2017 they responded to the back to back hurricanes, sharing supplies with shelters in the hard-hit areas and rescuing 120 pets from Florida and Puerto Rico. Many of those pets arrived with serious medical conditions that needed to be addressed before they could find new homes, placing a strain on the nonprofit's budget.
The need is great right now and Second Chance needs to be sure they are ready for anything that might come through the door. Anyone interested in supporting Second Chance can send donations to 111 Young Road, East Brookfield, MA 01515 or visit www.secondchanceanimals.org to make an online donation.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance is a nonprofit 501c3 tax exempt organization that began in 1999 in East Brookfield and relies solely on donations and grants to operate. The organization operates an Adoption Center in East Brookfield, and three full-service Community Veterinary Hospitals North Brookfield, Springfield and Worcester. Second Chance helps over 34,000 pets a year through adoption, spay/neuter, veterinary care, community outreach, educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry.
For more information, visit Second Chance's website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
Follow Second Chance on Facebook: www.facebook.com/secondchanceanimals
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Volunteer Case Reviewers Needed!
Volunteer case reviewers are essential participants of the foster care review panel. The panel consists of one Volunteer Case Reviewer, one DCF case reviewer, and one administrative staff from the local DCF office. They work to ensure the safety and progress of the foster children in the Commonwealth. This position offers the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child in Massachusetts. Volunteer Case Reviewers provide honest, unbiased, and independent feedback to assure that goals are in place and actions are being taken to meet those goals. The Chamber of Central Mass South encourages all able individuals to consider taking on this critical volunteer responsibility.
For more information on becoming a volunteer, please visit:
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Cornerstone Bank Donates to Worcester State Foundation
Pictured L to R: (back) Worcester State President Barry M. Maloney; Cornerstone Bank Chairman and CEO K. Michael Robbins and EVP, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Lending Officer Randal D. Webber; Worcester State Vice President of University Advancement Thomas M. McNamara; (front) Cornerstone Bank EVP, Chief Administrative Officer and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee Susan A. Gunnell; Worcester State Dean, School of Education, Health and Natural Sciences Linda S. Larrivee; and Cornerstone Bank President and Treasurer Todd M. Tallman.
Cornerstone Bank's Charitable Donations Committee (CDC) is proud to have recently donated $6,000 to the Worcester State Foundation. This donation is the first installment of a 3-year, $18,000 pledge and will be used to help establish and maintain a new summer program at Worcester State University geared toward incoming freshmen students who need personalized academic support before starting the semester.
Named the Cornerstone STEM Scholars, this new program developed by the University will enable the participation of 20 freshmen students in the Bridge to Excellence: Summer STEM Retention Program. This program is offered to eligible freshmen students who have declared a major in biology or biotechnology to better prepare them for the rigors of these academic majors. The first program will start with accepted freshmen for the 2018 fall semester.
"Worcester State's mission is to champion academic excellence in a diverse, student-centered environment, and this program is just another way for the University to provide support and resources for many students," said Chairman and CEO of Cornerstone Bank K. Michael Robbins. "We are proud to be able to help our future generations pursue a higher education."
"Everyone deserves the best opportunity possible to attain a degree," stated President and Treasurer of Cornerstone Bank Todd M. Tallman. "It's a great way for us to give back to our community."
If you are interested in learning more about Worcester State University or the Cornerstone STEM Scholars program, visit
www.worcester.edu or call 508-929-8000.
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, N. Oxford, 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, on
Facebook or call 800-939-9103.
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North Brookfield Savings Bank's Back to School Supply Drive
Returns for Second Year
Backpacks, lunchboxes and supplies will be collected at all branches
for local school children in need.
North Brookfield Savings is proud to be a strong supporter of local school systems and the talented and ambitious students who attend them. They believe that each and every child, regardless of their financial circumstances, should have the opportunity to start the school year feeling confident, excited and ready to learn. That is why North Brookfield Savings Bank is kicking off the second year of their overwhelmingly popular
Back to School Supply Drive.
Throughout the entire month of August,
North Brookfield Savings Bank will be collecting school supplies and monetary donations at all branch locations in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Palmer and Three Rivers. All donations collected will be delivered to local public schools to be distributed to school children who may not have the needed supplies to start their year. To get things underway, the Bank kicked off the fundraiser by purchasing over $700 in supplies. The branch employees, equipped with brightly patterned backpacks, lunchboxes, pencil cases, notebooks and various other fun supplies, are getting creative with their "Back to School" themed tables, in hopes it will encourage those visiting the branch to donate as well.
Some suggested school supply donation items that can be dropped at any North Brookfield Savings Bank branch location are: New Backpacks (unisex), Lunchboxes, Spiral Notebooks, Pocket Folders, 12" Standard Rulers, #2 Pencils, Pencil Sharpeners, Pencil Case, Colored Pencils
Washable Markers, Erasers, Glue Sticks, Scissors, Tissues
"North Brookfield Savings Bank is incredibly proud to once again host the Back to School Supply Drive. We want all children to begin the school year with the essential supplies they need, in turn giving them the confidence and enthusiasm that allows them to continue to learn successfully," said Andrea Healy, Senior Vice President and Director of Human Resources. "It was so amazing to witness the generosity displayed during our first Back to School Supply Drive. Customers, community members and our employees were so giving and really showed how much they care for the children of our schools. We look forward to seeing that same generosity this year!"
To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank's community giving efforts and all of the convenient banking products and services offered, visit
www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
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Cornerstone Bank Participates in Habitat for Humanity
Operation Playhouse Build-A-Thon
Pictured here are the Cornerstone Bank volunteers and employees who participated in Operation Playhouse on June 28, 2018. Team Barnyard for the Wing family (L to R): SVP/Retail Lending and Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/ Greater Worcester Board Member Scott L. Auen, Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer Todd M. Tallman; Facilities Manager Arthur H. Breault; VP/Marketing Lori L. Kowal; VP/Compliance, BSA & Security Pamela L. LeBlanc; Southbridge Office Branch Manager Carly B. Wilson; AVP/Training Donna L. Tibbetts; AVP/Collection Manager Albert Cacciagrani; and VP/Commercial Loan Operations Rachel A. Briggs.
Team American Flag for the Magdycz family: VP/ Controller Scott M. Dungey; Charlton Branch Manager Sabrina L. Webb; VP/Mortgage Loan Officer Lynne M. Esposito; AVP/Sturbridge Senior Branch Manager Sheri A. Bibinski; Southbridge Big Y Plaza Branch Manager Angela L. Sarna; Leicester Branch Manager Andrew J. Philbrook; and VP/HR Business Partner Bonnie B. Losavio.
Cornerstone Bank employees were hard at work on Thursday, June 28th at the Habitat for Humanity Operation Playhouse Build-A-Thon. This event brought businesses from the MetroWest and Greater Worcester area together to build, paint, and decorate themed playhouses for Veteran and military families.
Nineteen Cornerstone Bank employees spent the day building two playhouses. At the end of the Build-A-Thon families were presented with their playhouses. An American flag themed playhouse went to the daughter of current US Air Force First Lieutenant, Allen Magdycz and his wife, Nicole Magdycz, of Westfield, MA. A barnyard themed playhouse went to the two daughters of US Marine Corps Veteran, Michael Wing and his wife, Ashley Wing, of Lancaster, MA.
"Operation Playhouse is a great way to give back to the community," said Todd M. Tallman, Cornerstone Bank's President and Treasurer. "We're honored to have been a part of this rewarding day."
Cornerstone Bank would like to thank Mr. Magdycz and Mr. Wing for their service and the service of all our military men and woman. We would also like to thank Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/ Greater Worcester for organizing this wonderful event and Veterans Inc. in Worcester for hosting the event.
"Our military members have sacrificed so much to protect the life that we enjoy here today in the United States. It was a privilege to be able to attend the Playhouse Build-A-Thon and give back to military families in our community," stated Scott L. Auen, Cornerstone Bank's SVP/Retail Lender and MetroWest/ Greater Worcester Habitat for Humanity Board Member.
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Baba Sushi Event Raises $500 for Kids in the Congo
On Thursday, July 19, Baba Sushi and Hosts Skip and Judy Nielsen, of Sturbridge, held a special event at which restaurant owner, Wilson Wang pledged 10% of his receipts for the entire day to
Kids in the Congo (KIC), a local charity based at St. Anne Shrine. A week later, Sara Gallant, manager of Baba Sushi Sturbridge presented the group with a check for $500.
Based in Sturbridge, MA, Kids in the Congo (KIC) provides educational support for children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. "Our children have never known peace and stability in their lifetime," said Lynne Brouillette, president of Kids in the Congo. "For many of them, getting an education is a dream come true. It is a way out of poverty that has trapped generations of Congolese families due to war and tribal violence."
Brouillette said the $500 raised by Baba Sushi and the Nielsens will educate ten children for an entire year. "We are so grateful to Wilson Wang for his generosity, to the Nielsens for organizing the event, and to the community at large for turning out to support Kids in the Congo while enjoying some delicious food!"
Kids in the Congo has partnered with the Augustinians of the Assumption (Assumptionists) who staff parishes and schools throughout the Beni-Butembo Diocese of Eastern Congo. This partnership was made possible through the Assumptionist presence at St. Anne Shrine in Sturbridge and Assumption College in Worcester. For more info, please visit
kidsinthecongo.org.
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August Blood Drive at Palmer North Brookfield Savings Bank
Each eligible donor will receive a free Big E ticket, while supplies last
With the nation facing a critical blood shortage and the American Red Cross issuing an emergency call for blood donors to "give now and help save lives", North Brookfield Savings Bank will be hosting a Blood Drive at the Bank's Palmer branch on Friday, August 10th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The blood drive will supply much-needed blood to Baystate Medical Center of Springfield, the only Level 1 Trauma Center Western Massachusetts, along with all Baystate Health hospitals.
"North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to host the Baystate Health Bloodmobile at our Palmer location in an effort to provide our community members with easy access to make blood donations," said Donna Boulanger, President and CEO of North Brookfield Savings Bank. "Each person that gives blood can save multiple lives so this is a perfect opportunity to make a difference."
The Blood Drive will be conducted inside the Baystate Health state-of-the-art bloodmobile:
NBSB PALMER BRANCH
Friday, August 10th, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
1051 Thorndike Street, Palmer, MA 01069
Appointments are optional and can be made by contacting the North Brookfield Savings Bank Palmer branch location or the Baystate Health Blood Donor Center at 413-794-4600.
Each eligible donor at the blood drives will receive a free ticket to the Big E, while supplies last. To participate, donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in general good health.
"After strange winter weather and the worst cold and flu season in history, it is so important to donate blood to your local hospital during the summer months, especially when donations tend to decline. 100% of the blood donated to the Baystate Health Blood Donor Program stays local to help patients in all Baystate Health hospitals, including Baystate Wing Hospital. North Brookfield Savings Bank does an incredible job of bringing the community together to make a difference," said Amy Benson,BMC Recruiter. "We look forward to continuing to partner with them, and to meeting the generous donors at the blood drives."
To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank's community giving efforts and all of the convenient banking products and services offered, visit www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
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Sip & Stars Fun-Gazing for Hitchcock Academy
Photos used with permission
Left panel: Kate and Rusty Corriveau (owners of Brimfield Winery,) Christina Mealy, Cedric Daniel, and their daughter Nora (owners of Rapscallion Brewery) invite you to join them in supporting Hitchcock Free Academy by attending Sip & Stars on August 8th.
Right panel: Geoff and Kim McLean from the Thames Astronomical Society will be joined this year by Aldrich Astronomical Society volunteers with their telescopes and displays and rocket demonstrations.
By Diana Caissie
Stargazers, set your calendars for Wednesday, August 8th-Hitchcock Academy is holding their 4th annual beer/wine tasting and stargazing fundraising event-Sip & Stars! After last year's spike in attendance, Hitchcock Academy, Rapscallion Brewery of Fiskdale and Brimfield Winery & Cidery is joining forces to host Hitchcock's largest fundraiser of the year at Brimfield Winery's sprawling fields!
Hitchcock Academy served as Brimfield's high school from 1855-1954 and since then as a community center enriching lives for residents of all ages with a wide variety of offerings. Hitchcock depends on fundraisers such as Sip & Stars to help make programming possible for the community, to provide meeting spaces for classes, community groups such as Boy and Girl Scouts and Family Foundations 5 and to maintain the 163 year old historic building.
Brimfield Winery is joining Sip & Stars for the first time in 2018. Kate Corriveau, from Brimfield winery shares her thoughts, "We are so grateful to the Hitchcock Academy board and Rapscallion Brewery to be asked to be part of this unique and fun family event. One of our major goals for Brimfield Winery & Cidery is to enhance and help the beautiful community we live in, this is a perfect event to display that intent." In addition to providing the field, Brimfield Winery is also arranging for a food from Landmark Catering and hot dog cart to be present.
The expansive field at the Winery lends room to attendees who wish to enjoy the evening sky in relative silence, or who wish to follow along with the guided stargazing from Geoff and Kim Mclean of the Thames Amateur Astronomy Society. August 8th is an excellent time to turn to the night sky-it is just before the peak of the Perseids meteor showers and since it is near a new moon, light from the moon will not interfere with viewing. Mars will be the closest it has been to earth in 50 years so viewing should be spectacular. Aldrich Astronomical Society volunteers will be joining us as well and they will offer opportunities for kids to learn about Newton's Laws as they help launch safe air propelled rockets & screaming rocket balloons into the sky! Meteorites will be displayed along with space artifacts and a Mars Soil Simulant diorama with a matchbox scale model of the Curiosity Rover on Mars! The Astronomical Societies will also have telescopes on hand for attendees to view celestial objects in detail!
Though Sip & Stars centers on sampling craft beer and wine, children are more than welcome to join in the celestial fun! Country Bank's family friendly area will be open before sunset and kids of all ages can put their hands on some meteorites, touch some simulated Mars soil and discover something about Newton's law during air burst rocket launch traveling 100 MPH and rising 600-700 feet in the air. Enjoy some interstellar games, a picnic on the grass, Rapscallion's homemade root beer, in the kids' activity area, open 6-dusk to entertain families as they await the appearance of planets and stars, meteors and constellation.
Thanks to generous sponsorships from Rapscallion Brewery, Brimfield Winery & Cidery, Country Bank, B.T's Smokehouse, Ross Solar Group, Southbridge Credit Union, Sturbridge Host Hotel, McCurdy Group, Michael L. Wales Painting, Village Green Campground, Water-Pros, Integer/Lake Region, Cornerstone Bank, All Star Incentive Marketing, Hitchcock is able to offer a fun and enlightening community event! In addition to raising funds through ticket sales.
Hitchcock will also be holding a 50/50 raffle and a raffle for a telescope, a historic poster of the phases of the moon, and a few surprises!
Attendees, both returning and new, will find a pleasant August evening under the stars with their family and friends surrounding them. To purchase tickets or learn more about Sip & Stars, visit Hitchcock Academy's website,
hitchcockacademy.org, or call their office at 1-413-245-9977.
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"That August time it was delight / To watch the red moons wane to white."
-Algernon Charles Swinburne
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Wednesday Night Cruising for Charity Car Show
Every Wednesday Night!
Starting June 6th · 5pm to Dusk · 100% profits go to the Masonic Children's.
Weekly Show Classes
August 1st: Modern Muscle & Best of Show
August 8th: Best Truck & Best of Show
August 15th: Best Mustang & Best of Show
August 22nd: Best Corvette & Best of Show
August 29th: Best of Season, Mason's Choice & Driver's Choice
Klem's 117 West Main Street, Spencer 508-885-2708
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Rewards Night at the Worcester Bravehearts!
Klem's Rewards Exclusive! Tickets Only $5!
Save With Your EXCLUSIVE Discounted Ticket Valid For Klem's Rewards Members ONLY!
Fitton Field, Worcester
Choose From 4 Select Games With Fireworks Show (one date left!):
Friday, August 3rd
Simply show your Rewards Card at the main gate on a select game date to receive the discount!
Seats are based on availability.
Klem's 117 West Main Street, Spencer 508-885-2708
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Redcoats & Rebels at Old Sturbridge Village
BREAKING NEWS: KIDS ARE FREE IN AUGUST AT OSV!
(Up to 3 kids per full-price paying adult)
August 4-5
See the
largest military re-enactment in New England with nearly 1,000 soldiers portraying British, Irish, Spanish, Scottish, French and Colonial troops. The Village is transformed into a military camp from the time of the War for Independence, as it was known in early New England. Come see what it was really like for those who fought to win America's freedoms.
Daytime events on both days include activities such as:
- Mock battles and skirmishes
- Tours of the British and American camps
- "School of the Soldier" training demonstrations
- 18th-century Fashions in the Press featuring military and civilian clothing
- Cannon demonstrations
- Musket drilling with kids
- Martial music
- Help with camp laundry
- Learn scouting techniques during "Reconnoiter with a Ranger"
- Drilling and inspection of the troops
- Visit the battlefield hospital - see small pox inoculations and treatment of the wounded after the battles
- See the daily life of a Revolutionary War soldier - including delivery of uniforms, pay calls, and prisoner exchanges
- Play 18th-century baseball
- Attend a "Service for the Troops"
- Learn 18th-century dances
- Explore interactive miniature war gaming
Please note: Free admission passes may not be used on Redcoats & Rebels. Standard admission (or a Season Pass or Membership) apply.
This event is generously sponsored by: Dexter-Russell.
This summer, Old Sturbridge Village and Brian Clowdus Experiences bring the beloved story of Charlotte's Web to life at the Freeman Farm with a live musical production based on the classic and beloved tale by E.B. White. This production is a reinvented version of the story, set in a timeless New England era that honors the 1830s but with a modern license to breathe fresh air into the story!
Show Dates & Times:
Shows will take place Wednesday - Sunday from July 5 thru August 26 (except no shows on August 4-5 due to Redcoats & Rebels).
Shows times are 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. Performances are just under an hour in length and take place on the Freeman Farm. Please plan to arrive at least 40 minutes prior to show time to allow sufficient time to check in and walk to the farm.
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road
Sturbridge MA 01566
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Wednesday, August 8th, 2018 6-10 pm
(Rain Date: Thursday, August 9th)
4th Annual Beer & Wine Tasting and Stargazing Event
presented with generous support by Country Bank and BT's Smokehouse
(Click on the image for details)
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Join us for a casual networking event to kick off the new year of Woman In Business events. Enjoy Rapscallion brews and bar munchies while reconnecting with fellow members, meeting our new Board of Directors, and learning about the year ahead. Prospective members welcome - this is a great opportunity to learn more about us! Learn more at this link.
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Stony Creek Brewery Pint Night
Thursday, August 9, 2018, 6:30pm
Hailing from Branford, CT, Stony Creek's brew master has been focusing on the fusion of clean, bold, and aggressive West Coast flavors and East Coast balance and drinkability. He calls this "Aggressively Laid-Back Beer" and he's been at it for nearly two decades. Stony Creek produces a wide range of IPAs, lagers, ales, seasonals, stouts and porters... something for everyone for sure. So head over to The Duck and find out what Stony Creek's "Aggressively Laid-Back Beer" is all about.
At The Duck's pint nights...Meet local and craft brewers. Learn about what's new. Taste some of the great brews from The Duck's new "state-of-the-art" tap system. Listen to some great live music! Visit
The Duck online for more.
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Stageloft Theater Presents
NOISES OFF
by Michael Frayn
August 10 - 26
Called "the funniest farce ever written," Noises Off presents a manic menagerie of itinerant actors rehearsing a flop called Nothing's On. Doors slamming, on and offstage intrigue, and an errant herring all figure in the plot of this hilarious and classically comic play.
"The most dexterously realized comedy ever about putting on a comedy. A spectacularly funny, peerless backstage farce. This dizzy, well-known romp is festival of delirium."
- The New York Times
Presented by Special Arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.
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The Center of Hope Foundation's 11th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on
Friday, August 10, 2018 at the
Heritage Country Club in Charlton, MA. Registration begins at 7:30. Individual golfers $140. Foursomes and individual golfers welcome. For more information please call Marie Smoker at (508)764-4085 or email at
msmoker@thecenterofhope.org.
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Federated Church of Sturbridge & Fiskdale to Host 69th Annual Auction
The Federated Church of Sturbridge and Fiskdale will hold its 69th Annual Antique Auction on Saturday, August 11, 2018, on the beautiful Sturbridge Common across from the landmark Publick House Historic Inn. The auction will be held, rain or shine, under tent, with a preview of items to be sold beginning at 9:00 a.m. and bidding starting promptly at 10:00 a.m.
A real old fashioned country auction, this event is now known as the longest annually held church auction in the nation, according to auction committee chair, Ken Benson. Items up for bid include an amazing assortment of antique items donated by church and community members, many in original condition and some lovingly restored by local artisans.
As a special feature of this year's auction, any bidder whose purchases total $500 or more will receive dinner for two, courtesy of The Publick House Historic Inn and Restaurant. Bidders whose purchases total $1,000 or more, will receive one night of lodging and dinner for two.
Items on the auction block include a 4-drawer reproduction Queen Ann bureau by Bevan Funnell Ltd, New Haven England, which makes classic English furniture using carefully selected quality materials and veneers. The bureau was a winner of the 1967 Queen's Award to Industry, an annual award by Queen Elizabeth for business innovation and performance.
A highlight of the auction is the sale of two featured chairs, the Sturbridge Chair (#24 in the series) and The Publick House Chair (#47 in the series). These highly prized items, which always command a lot of attention, are decorated in bronze powder stenciling with a lovely Sturbridge or Publick House scene. The chairs are part of a limited series with only one of each produced each year and they are only available at the Federated Church annual auction.
Other items up for bid include a mahogany drum table with a leather top and harp base, a unique corner cabinet, a lady's rocker with caned seat, a child's high chair with caned seat, antique tools, an oak porch rocker, and more than 50 items from the estate of the late Carl & Mabel Silverberg, longtime Sturbridge residents and Federated Church members who were very active in the auction for many years.
The event also includes a silent auction featuring gift baskets, handmade crafts, gift certificates from local vendors, a bake sale and food booth. The auction is handicapped accessible and open to the general public free of charge with ample free parking around the Common and the Church.
The auction is being conducted for the 45th year in a row by the highly professional and entertaining Robert Glass Jr. and Gwen Glass Carbone of the Robert H. Glass family of auctioneers. Auction Committee members include Tim Bardsley, Ken Benson, Pat Hilton, Brian Rhea, Bruce Smith, and Michael Walker. For more information, please call the Church office at (508) 347-3915 or email
churchoffice@sturfed.org.
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Salem Cross Inn
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!
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: These Jokes are Killing Me
Next Show: August 12
Salem Cross Inn and
Cornely Productions present a Murder Mystery Dinner: Our interactive dinner theater, These Jokes are Killing Me...
Friends of a lovely woman discover she is dying. To bring some joy into her last days they organize a dinner party where everyone, including patrons, delivers jokes in order to bring laughter to her final days.
But you never know if she will make it through the night. Who has the last laugh now!?
Join us for a laugh-filled night, a great dinner, and a mystery we need your help solving.
Menu
Tossed Garden Salad with Creamy Italian Dressing
Rustic Boneless Breast of Chicken - Supreme Sauce
Seasonal Potato and Vegetable
Homemade Rolls
Ice Cream Cakeballs with Homemade Hot Fudge
Brewed Tea or Coffee
The Murder Mystery Dinner is an advanced ticket purchase dining event. To order tickets, please call Salem Cross Inn at 508-867-2345 or submit your order online. $56 per person, includes all taxes and gratuities. Arrive 6:45pm. Show begins at 7:00pm.
Farmers' Dinner
Welcome to our fifth season of Farmers' Dinners...
The inspiration for this menu is solely based on what we have grown here, on our own farm, just steps from our gardens and pastures. The vegetables are grown by our gardener and Bo Salem, the herbs are grown by John Salem and the beef is raised by David Salem. Your dinner is prepared by Chef Laurent and his staff who would love to share tips on their cooking with you. Feel free to join in, ask questions or just meet some new people. We look forward to sharing some great dinners with you at this new dinner series. We'll see you in the garden!
Thursday, August 23
Featuring Local Farm Raised Chicken
Enjoy our Magnificent New England View!
In the Yard - 6:00pm arrival Relax and unwind with...
Hors d'oeuvres
Cool refreshing drinks
An informal garden tour
Chef demonstration
In the Barn - 7:00pm Dinner One big, long table will be set in our barn, reminiscent of family dinners. Enjoy a delicious dinner that has been inspired by our farm and gardens,
just steps away from our kitchen.
Visit the link for the detailed menu and to purchase your tickets!
Outdoor Summer Grilling
Wednesday and Thursday 5:00 PM
Every Wednesday and Thursday, join us outside the Hexmark Tavern on our beautiful grounds
while we grill up some amazing food for you.
Main Dining Room:
Tuesday-Friday- 4:00 PM-9:00 PM
Saturday- 5:00 PM-9:00 PM
Sunday- 12:00 PM-8:00 PM
Hexmark Tavern:
Tuesday-Friday- 4:00 PM-9:00 PM
Live music every Friday starting at 6:30 PM
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Publick House Cooks for Community Organizations
Help us give back to the community by joining us for our monthly feasts to raise money for local organizations. Sponsored organization will split a minimum of $4.00 from every dinner served!
August 13
Nomads of Hope
Sturbridge Lions Club
TURKEY FEAST
CASH DONATION
(4-12 yrs.)
ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET!
Held in Paige Hall or under the Tent!
SEATING ONE: 4:30pm-6:15pm
SEATING TWO: 6:30pm-7:30pm
Casual Dining * Open Seating * No Reservations
All Feasts include...
Tossed Salad with Maple Vinaigrette, Dinner Rolls, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks & Iced Water
Thank you for your support!
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Klems' Farmers Market
Saturdays starting June 9th through October 20th · Rain or Shine
Fresh produce. Visit Many Local Crafters, Artisans & More!
Klem's 117 West Main Street, Spencer 508-885-2708
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Sturbridge Rotary Charity Golf Classic
August 20
The Sturbridge Rotary Club is hosting its
Charity Golf Classic on Monday, August 20 at Cohasse Country Club. Check in is at 9 AM with tee time at 10:30 AM. Watch for more details coming soon. Can't wait and want to sign up now? Contact Dave Zonia at 508-335-4550 or Bill Lemke at 508-347-7416 to request a registration form.
Download the brochure at this link.
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BROOKFIELD ORCHARDS IS CELEBRATING THEIR 100th YEAR OF BUSINESS!
ANNIVERSARY PIG ROAST HAPPENS ON AUGUST 25!
Brookfield Orchards has been family owned and operated since 1918 and we are so proud to be able to celebrate this joyous occasion with all of you!
On August 25th from 10:00am until 5:00pm, Brookfield Orchards is planning an awesome event to celebrate their big birthday and also their loyal, amazing customers! Join us on this date for a
PIG ROAST served by Damn Yankees BBQ!
Local Craft Beer brewed by Rapscallion Brewery! Delicious
Kettle Corn by Minuteman Kettle Corn!
And so much more to be announced!
We will be having 2 bands playing on this day!
Wibble will be back to our stage from 11:00am to 1:30pm and
Never Say Never will be on stage from 2:00 to 5:00!
We have added a
fun activity for the kids! A table will be set up with paper and markers for the kids to create us their very own special Birthday Cards for us! All cards will be displayed in the orchard the following day for the entire Fall season! SOOOOO EXCITING!!
Our Pig Roast is $20 a person and 1 craft beer is included with the ticket price. Our Snack Bar will also be open if you just want to come spend the day with us!
GET YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE! To help us get a head count and be able to have enough food for everyone, buying your tickets early for this event will aid in our planning so it will be an awesome day for everyone. We greatly appreciate it and can't wait for August 25th!
Visit online or find
Brookfield Orchards on Facebook for more!
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2018 Concerts on the Commons
Southbridge
Music, good quality, family friendly entertainment!
All performances are 6-8 pm. Southbridge Common (1 Mechanic St)
August 5: The Black & White Band (Rhythm & Blues/Rock) Southbridge Lions
August 12: Tipperary Road (Celtic) Southbridge Town Employees
Sturbridge
All concerts start at 6pm on the Sturbridge Town Common. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Please be mindful of those around you who are listening to the concert. Please refrain from parking directly on the Town Common. Thank you and enjoy the concerts!
August 2: Island Castaways (Summer Music)
August 9: LA's Backstage Pass (80s Rock Tribute)
West Brookfield
Relax and enjoy live music on the West Brookfield Town Common!
Bring chairs, blankets, picnics, and BUG SPRAY! 7-9pm.
August 1: Changes in Latitude
East Brookfield
Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM
Town Gazebo on Connie Mack Field
(Concerts are cancelled if it rains!)
August 2: Joe Macey
August 9 Tequila Bonfire
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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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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 alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org if you have any questions or to arrange a pickup. Thank you for your contributions!
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Important Dates to Save!
August 2: Our Summer Outing: A New England Clambake at The Publick House
August 4-5: Redcoats & Rebels at OSV
August 4-5: Pan-Mass Challenge
August 8: Sip & Stars
August 9: Stony Creek Brewery at The Duck
August 10: Center of Hope Foundation 11th Annual Golf Tournament
August 12: Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at Salem Cross Inn
August 25: 100th Anniversary Celebration at Brookfield Orchards!
September 4-9: Brimfield Antiques Shows
September 19: New Member Orientation
September 25: Brown Bag Seminar "Let's Cake Decorate!"
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VISIT US ONLINE FOR LOCAL EVENTS AND MORE
www.cmschamber.org
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