CMS Chamber logo  

 

In This Issue
July's Fun at Five
C-MASS GEOFEST
Golf Classic Champs!
Welcome Hannah, Our New Venly Fellow
KID POWER Gymnastics Ribbon Cutting!
Celebrate Summer at the Chamber Clambake!
Hometown Bank Donates to Sponsor Day Kimball Volunteers
NBSB's Hat Contest Winner
TLGV Launches Community Enrichment Grant Program
Norcom Mortgage Welcomes Daniela Gatti
New Hope's Open House
Cornerstone Awarded 1st Place in 4 Categories at New England Banking Choice Awards
Wanted: Loan Officers
Publick House Feast
Holland Community Center Events
Stageloft Show
Fraud Prevention Seminar
Cruising for Charity Car Shows
Cooking with Rico & Eric
Novena to Saint Anne
Dock Dogs Days at Klem's
TLGV's July Calendar of Events
Craft Beer & Roots Music Festival
Rewards Night at the Bravehearts
Cabaret Lulu at The Host
Lunch & Learn: HR Topics
Gateway Players Auditions
Publick House Feast
Farmers' Dinner at Salem Cross Inn
Concerts on the Commons
Village Toastmasters
24/7 Training
Save these Dates!
SCU Mortgage Loans
Member2Member 
Discounts
M2M logo
  Click the M2M logo to view all current discounts!
Chamber of Commerce 
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
 
Jessica Bettencourt
Chair
 
Laurie Cashman 
1st Vice Chair
Bruce Watkins
Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision
_________

Board Members

Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group  
 
Michael Checkosky
 
Angela Chviek
 
Kimberly Cobb
 
Rich Eichacker

Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
 
 
Steve Gardiner

Les Gardner
Les Gardner Photography

 
Leila Hurt
 
Lynn Mero
 
Rita Schiano 
 
Rich Suitum
 
Erica Travinski

Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co. 
 
Jim Donahue
Honorary Board Member
 
Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
 
 __________

Chamber Staff

Alexandra McNitt
 Executive Director

Paulette Hughes
Finance & Administration

Jack Starkey
Communications Specialist 

Chamber Links

CMS Chamber logo
Stur Townships - Everything but Ordinary  

Welcome to your mid-July CROSSROADS EVENTS!
 
Summer is in full swing now and it's time to hit the trails... at C-MASS GEOFEST! Our little geocaching festival has grown to be a MEGA event in its 5th year with over 500 people expected! Check out the details below and come be a part of a new tradition.  
It starts this week!  
 
How's your summer going so far? We'd love to hear all about it and hope to see you at Cedar Street Cafe tomorrow night for July's Fun at Five! Use the link in the article below to register and we'll see you there! Don't forget about our Summer Outing: A New England Clambake at The Publick House on August 1. Will it be Lobster, Steak or the Vegetarian entree? Register below and just bring your appetite and perhaps some comfy shoes! We can't wait! 
 
We want to share your news and events! Thank you for emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in Crossroads! Keep posting your events to our online events calendar! We love sharing them with our readers! 
 
Extra for Experts! Connect with us on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest for more from your Chamber!  
NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Fun at Five!
Tuesday, July 16 
5:00-7:00pm
Cedar Street Cafe logo  
Cedar Street Café 
420 Main Street 
Sturbridge, MA, 508-347-6800 
 
Join us for Fun at Five at The Cedar Street Café on July 16th. Cedar Street Café offers innovative and creative fare for morning and lunch dining including delicious house made pastries and air-roasted coffees. The café features indoor dining in the beautifully renovated Alpheus Wight farmhouse and outdoor dining on the patio, all centrally located at The Collection at Wight Farm, 420 Main Street, Sturbridge, Mass.   
 
For the Fun at Five event we'll have Beer, Wine, and probably a creative cocktail or two along with some great snacks to munch on.  We'll also have some raffles for a few fun door prizes.  See you there! 
 
You could win! 
A $50 Gift Card  
to HearthStone Market & Catering
A $50 Gift Card to Kaizen
Thanks to our Fun at Five Sponsor,   
The McCurdy Group 
 
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.
 
Thank you to our
July Fun at Five Sponsor!
McCurdy Group  
McCurdy Insurance Agency has been in business in Sturbridge since 1975.  At McCurdy's, our belief is Prevention is Always the Best Insurance. We've got you covered whether it is your car, home, boat, motorcycle, or classic car, we can handle all your personal insurance. We are also specialists in small business insurance, from contractors, manufacturers to restaurants and offices. Our philosophy is "make it as easy as possible for our customers." We are serious about our work and protecting you and we believe in a fun, friendly atmosphere (as much fun as insurance can be). We invite you to meet our friendly, courteous staff to let them help you insure your future!

We like to let the customers speak for us:  
"Hey Dennis, just wanted to say that Emily has been WONDERFUL!! She's the perfect mix of professional and friendly. Sounds like I'm well on my way to switching over to your Group." -Vanessa Roney

"My wife and I would like to thank Rebekah for her time and expertise pertaining to our insurance coverage (we feel she went above and beyond)." 
-Harold & Pamela Leaming     
 
The McCurdy Group 
212 Main Street, P.O. Box 531, Sturbridge, MA 01566 
Phone: (508) 347-9343 
www.mccurdyinsurance.com

C-MASS GEOFEST,
our region's only major geocaching festival,
returns for more fun in the summer of 2019!

Check out the promo on YouTube:

Join us July 17-21 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 fifth year, we're planning another leap forward for turnout and activities!  
 
MEGA IN 2019!  
C-MASS GEOFEST has achieved MEGA status among geocaching events with over 500 participants expected to attend this year's festival! See the events included below and come join the fun! 

Activities in natural and exhilarating surroundings will familiarize visitors with the historical, dining and shopping finds as well. It will be a celebration of activism in the outdoors and residents and visitors alike are invited to mingle.

Registration for the geocaching is FREE.
Register and learn more at:  

OUR 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.

Schedule of Events

Wed., July 17
Music Bingo at Mexicali Mexican Grill  7-9 pm

Like regular bingo but instead of numbers you match musical cues on a card

Thur., July 18
Canvas Painting with Brush It Off at the Publick House
6-8 pm
We'll paint an 11"x14" canvas, subject is the Moon Landing!
$25 pp, call 508-347-2761 to register for this!

Fri., July 19
I Scream for Ice Cream at Westview Farms Creamery 
2-4 pm
Enjoy some of the creamiest ice cream on the planet while watching baby goats frolic on the hilltop

Bonfire and the History of the Apollo Mission with the Aldrich Astronomical Society 8 pm
Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing with the Aldrich Astronomical Society, stories about the Apollo program, and rocket launching with the kids

Sat., July 20
The Main Event at Westville Dam

Registration 12 - 5

Vendors: Space Coast, JB's Mobile Café and Suzy Q's Ice Cream 12-5
Westville Caching 12 - 5
Kids Activities 12 - 4
Ammo Can Toss 12 - 4
1st Scouting Geocaching Badge Class with Scout338 at 12:30 
Meet & Greet with Massachusetts's newest volunteer Reviewer (Massquerade) at 12:30
Group Photo 1:00
Hands on Geocaching with 4Swans at 1:30  
Build Your Own Birdhouse Class at 2:30
2nd Scouting Geocaching Badge Class with Scout338 at 2:30  
History and Tour of the Westville Dam at 3:30  
Raffles, 50/50.... at 4:00  

Sun., July 21
Flotilla on Lake Siog up Quinebaug River Trail with Cider and Donut Launch at 9 am

This nationally designated National Recreational Trail is a flat-water course with no portages, approximately 5 miles in length, and several caches to pick up along the way.

Send-Off at Rapscallion Brewery 2-4
Enjoy a craft brew as we bring the C-MASS GEOFEST to a close for 2019.
GOLF CLASSIC: Congratulations to the 2019 Winning Team from  
Harrington HealthCare System!
Golf Classic Winning Team
Congratulations to the foursome from Harrington HealthCare System! Team members are Cameron Cormier, Emil Pablico, Russ Geller and Michael Gago. The team took home the championship cup, a beautiful art glass trophy donated by Karl Storz with a combined score of 11 under par. Thanks to our golfers, our amazing hosts at Heritage Country Club, our presenting sponsor Cornerstone Bank, our corporate sponsors Harrington HealthCare System and Southbridge Credit Union and our Lunch Sponsor, Incom. Thanks as well to our Tee Sponsors, Southbridge Credit Union, Harrington HealthCare System, Incom, The Center of Hope, Venture Community Services, Cornerstone Bank, Vibra Healthcare, The Meadows, Exsel Advertising Group, and Howell Marketing. Plus a shout out to our volunteers for helping out behind the scenes and, of course, Mother Nature for providing a superb day for golf! The Chamber's GOLF CLASSIC takes place annually in June and proceeds from the tournament benefit The Chamber Scholarships & Charities Fund. 
CMS Chamber Welcomes New Venly Fellow and Social Media Consultant, Hannah London

Hannah London The Chamber of Mass South is excited to introduce our new Venly Fellow, Hannah London. Hannah has recently completed extensive training and certification at Venly's headquarters in Cambridge, MA. She is available now to meet with our Members to offer expert advice and coaching for their endeavors in the increasingly important realm of social media. CMS Chamber Members are encouraged to contact the Chamber to set up a free 40-minute consultation with Hannah to receive a comprehensive evaluation of their online presence and recommendations for improvement. After this person-to-person meeting by webconference, you have the option to contract Venly for ongoing reviews, maintenance and assistance with your social media strategy for one-time setup charge and a small daily fee.

"Social media has revolutionized how businesses connect to consumers" said the Chamber's Executive Director Alexandra McNitt. "Having partnered with Venly for several years now, I can attest to how beneficial working with experts in this discipline is for our business and others."

More about the Chamber's new Venly Fellow, Hannah London
Born and raised in Hull, Massachusetts, Hannah attended University of Massachusetts Amherst where she graduated with a B.A. in Communication. Hannah worked her way through school in retail, restaurant, and day care center roles. From those experiences and looking forward, she developed a passion for helping local businesses. Coming from a tight-knit small town, Hannah sees the Fellowship as a chance to strengthen community connection across geographies and markets through outreach and engagement, e-commerce, web operations, and cybersecurity. You may contact Hannah by phone or email. Direct: (781) 242-9536 Main: (617) 379-0003 hannah.london@venly.com

About Venly
Venly partners with area Chambers of Commerce to help local businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen the community. Venly provides in-person training services to local business owners to get the most out of the big ten social media channels. Venly can help you create a customized social media strategy for your business. Find out more at Venly.com
SAVE THE DATE FOR A RIBBON CUTTING!
kID poWER
Saturday, August 10th 10am-2pm
Join us at the BRAND NEW Kid Power Gymnastics facility!  
 
Come explore Kid Power's 8,400 sq ft building, enjoy FREE open gym time for ages up to 12 yrs old (parents required in the gym), register for summer classes, daytime summer gym jam & September classes, and snack on cookies and lemonade!
FREE color changing Kid Power cup for every child who attends!
 
MORE INFO COMING SOON! 
 
508-439-9987 // info@kidpowergymnastics.com
Address: 221 Sturbridge Rd (Route 20) Charlton 
You're Invited to
A New England Clambake!
Thursday, August 1, 2019
5:00-8:00pm
The Publick House Historic Inn, On the Common, Sturbridge

The Chamber's Annual Summer Outing is back! We hope you will join us for a traditional New England Clambake hosted by The Publick House! We can't wait to get together with our Members and friends and enjoy a summer clambake with all the fixin's! Here are the details!
 
COCKTAIL HOUR:
5 to 6pm at The Little Red Barn
Butlered hors d'oeuvres. Cash Bar.
 
CLAMBAKE BUFFET:
6 to 8pm in the Garden Tent
New England Clam Chowder, Steamed Clams, Assorted Breads & Salads, Boiled Red Bliss Potatoes, Corn on the Cob
 
WITH YOUR CHOICE OF:
1 1/4 lb. Lobster, 12 oz. Sirloin Steak or Vegetarian Entree
 
DESSERT: Chef's Choice. Assorted Coffees & Teas.
 
Also featuring our annual raffle benefiting the Chamber's Charities & Scholarships Fund. Just $10 per ticket for "Your Chance to be a Millionaire!"
Win $1000 worth of lottery scratch tickets!
This will be your last chance to buy tickets!

Every ticket purchased this night earns you an entry into a separate raffle for a pair of
RED SOX - YANKEES TICKETS!
Friday, September 6 at Fenway Park, Boston
The winners will be drawn at the Clambake!
 
Bring some comfy shoes and try out the Publick House's new human Foosball game!
 
Why not make this your company outing? Groups of any size can be accommodated. Just tell us how many are in your party, and we'll reserve your table.
 
COST
$55 per person or tables of 10 for $525.

CONTACT US TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!
Remember to let us know your meal choice! Lobster, Steak or Veggie?
 
Deadline to RSVP is July 24.
508-347-2761 pjh@cmschamber.org

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Country Bank
&
Savers Bank
Hometown Bank Community Foundation donates $6,500 to Sponsor Day Kimball Healthcare Junior Volunteer Program
Hometown Donates
Pictured (L to R): Janet Johnson, Volunteer Services Coordinator, Day Kimball Healthcare (DKH); Jeffrey Corrigan, Vice President of Human Resources, DKH; Matthew LaFlamme, Branch Officer, bankHometown; Susan Collins, Cash Management Officer, bankHometown; Matt Sosik, President & CEO, bankHometown; Anne Diamond, President & CEO, DKH; Peter Deary, Board of Director, bankHometown and DKH; and Kristen Willis, Director of Development, DKH.

Matthew S. Sosik, President and CEO of bankHometown, announced that the Hometown Bank Community Foundation awarded a $6,500 grant in support of Day Kimball Healthcare's (DKH) 2019 Junior Volunteer Program at Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, CT.

The sponsorship funds will support the highly-competitive Junior Volunteer Program, available to an average of 60 area high school students for seven weeks during the summer months. Junior volunteers have the opportunity to gain valuable insight into possible future careers in healthcare while also providing valuable service to the community.

"We believe the Junior Volunteer Program at Day Kimball Healthcare presents many fantastic opportunities to our younger working community and sets them up for success when potentially looking for future employment in the health services field," said Matthew S. Sosik, President and CEO of bankHometown. "That's why we love to sponsor this program."

In order to become a Junior Volunteer, candidates must be between the ages of 14 and 18, have graduated 9th grade before entering the program, attend one eight-hour training day, and commit to one eight-hour day per week for the months of July and August. Students are able to spend the summer with new friends learning about various careers in the hospital setting, building their resume, and fulfilling community service requirements that they might have.

Day Kimball Healthcare's service areas include northeast Connecticut, as well as nearby Massachusetts and Rhode Island communities. Their comprehensive network offers more than 1,100 employees, including nearly 300 associated, highly-skilled physicians, surgeons and specialists.

The mission of Day Kimball Healthcare is to meet the health needs and well-being of our diverse community through our core values of clinical quality, customer service, fiscal and environmental responsibility and local control.

bankHometown, a member of the Hometown Financial Group family of banks, is headquartered in Oxford, MA and has 13 branch offices serving central Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. Through its sponsorship and charitable giving program, bankHometown and the Hometown Bank Community Foundation support non-profit organizations and causes throughout the surrounding communities and have donated $216,394 to over 110 organizations in the year of 2018. For more information or to apply for funding, please visit hometowncoop.com/resources/.

Hometown Financial Group, Inc. is a $2.7 billion mutual multi-bank holding company headquartered in Easthampton, Massachusetts and is the parent company of bankESB, bankHometown and Abington Bank. These separate and distinct banking franchises offer a complete line of consumer and business deposit and lending products through its 30 branch offices located throughout Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. For additional information about Hometown Financial Group, please visit www.bankhfg.com.
North Brookfield Savings Bank Hat Contest Winner is Caitlyn Toomey 
NBSB Hat Contest
    North Brookfield Savings Bank's Assistant Vice President/Marketing Manager Caitlin O'Connor presented a $100 Klem's gift certificate to NBSB's May Hat Contest Winner Caitlyn Toomey, of North Brookfield.
 
We can all feel the change in the air as summer quickly approaches. The days are getting warmer and the excitement of vacations and fun summer activities is in full force. For Caitlyn Toomey, a North Brookfield resident, the summer excitement got a jump start when she found out that she was the May winner of North Brookfield Savings Bank's Hat Contest.
 
Each month, anyone spotted wearing a North Brookfield Savings Bank hat in the community by a Bank representative is entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift certificate to a local establishment. Caitlyn Toomey was spotted wearing her NBSB hat by Assistant Vice President/Marketing Manager Caitlin O'Connor at North Brookfield's May Festival while she was with her father Ryan Toomey and her brother Jake. Caitlyn later visited the North Brookfield branch to receive her gift of a $100 gift card to the Klem's, a local, favorite department store in Spencer, MA. When asked what she was planning to use the gift card for, Caitlyn replied that she was thinking of getting some pet fish.

To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank Hat Contest and all of the convenient banking products and services offered, visit www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
TLGV 25
TLGV Launches $50,000 Community Enrichment Grant Program
 
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) is pleased offer its largest grant program in almost a decade. TLGV's new Community Enrichment Grant Program will fund projects aimed at conserving, celebrating or enhancing The Last Green Valley's significant natural and historic resources or promoting economic development such as tourism and outdoor nature-based recreation.
 
TLGV is a member-supported non-profit charged with stewardship of the unique agricultural, natural, historic and cultural resources of one of the nation's oldest national heritage corridors, The Last Green Valley.
 
"To celebrate 25 years of this amazing national heritage corridor TLGV wanted to create a program that also honors the community partnerships that make this region so unique and special," Lois Bruinooge. TLGV executive director. "As a nonprofit we ensure every dollar of our funding becomes multiple dollars of community benefit and this grant program is a way for TLGV to extend that benefit even further."
 
Projects must demonstrate tangible results and lasting benefits to the community and can be related to sustainable agriculture, trails and water trails, accessibility, streetscape improvements, community gardens, tourism, land use planning, light pollution control, open space, wildlife habitat, water quality, farmers markets, Brownfields, forestry, town common enhancements, interpretive materials, historic preservation or other projects that advance the visions and strategies of Vision 2020, the management plan for The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor. Vision 2020 can be found at www.TheLastGreenValley.org
 
Grants may range from $2,500 - $10,000. Funds will be dispersed on a reimbursement basis and must be matched 1:1 by cash or in-kind contributions. Municipalities, schools and non-profit 501(c) organizations are eligible to apply for projects located within The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor.
 
Applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered by 4 p.m. Aug. 29.  Applications may also be emailed to LyAnn@tlgv.org before midnight Aug. 29.
 
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!
Norcom Mortgage Welcomes Daniela Gatti to "The Mama K Team"
 
Daniela Gatti Let Daniela Gatti help you to your new home.  
A mortgage and loan professional for more than eighteen years, she has additional training and certification in management and business development and credit remediation. She has the knowledge and experience to help you through the loan process, find the terms that are right for your budget, and make sure all the legalities are competently handled so that the closing goes smoothly and you can take possession of your new property with confidence.
 
Whether you're a first-time home buyer, looking to trade up, deciding to downsize, or simply wishing for a change, Daniela can help you before you ever make an offer on a property. She can sit down with you and look over your budget, income and savings, helping you get a clear picture of what type and amount of loan is realistic. There are many factors to consider when securing financing; interest rates are only one element of the complete package. Daniela will help you consider all your options so you can concentrate on making the best decision for your needs.
 
The financial aspects of home buying can be stressful and overwhelming-but they don't have to be, not with a trained and caring professional in your corner.
 
Contact Daniela Gatti today at Norcom Mortgage and let's get started making your home-ownership dream come true.  Norcom Mortgage is located at 135 Main Street (Route 131), Suite 4, Sturbridge. Reach them by phone at 774.241.0770. 
Open House Invite
Cornerstone Bank Awarded First Place in Four Categories at the  
2019 New England Banking Choice Awards
Banking Awards
Cornerstone Bank has been recognized in four categories at this year's New England Banking Choice Awards. The awards were accepted on June 28th at the Best Bank Expo held at MGM Springfield. Cornerstone Bank President and Treasurer, Todd M. Tallman, took part in the discussion panel. 
 
Cornerstone Bank has been named the first place statewide winner for Technology and named first place in Central Massachusetts in three categories: Overall Quality, Customer Service, and Technology and Tools.
 
"We are honored to be recognized at this year's New England Banking Choice Awards," said Chairman and CEO of Cornerstone Bank K. Michael Robbins. "We thank our customers for their continued support and our employees for their contributions toward obtaining these awards."
 
The awards are presented by American Business Media and Customer Experience Solutions LLC who interview thousands of banking customers in a double-blind format. These banking benchmarks are created without any financial institutions involved, making it highly respected.
 
"It was an honor to sit on the discussion panel with other bankers from top-ranking financial institutions," stated President and Treasurer of Cornerstone Bank Todd M. Tallman. "It's an exciting time to be in banking, and we're honored to be recognized for our commitment to excellence."
 
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.

Norcom  
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)
"The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses." 
-  Hanna Rion 
The Publick House  
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 organizations will split a minimum of $4.00 from every dinner served!

July 15  
Alzheimer's Association 
Ladies of the Oriental Shrine
ITALIAN FEAST
 
CASH DONATION 
Adults $14 / Children $5
(4-12 yrs.) 
BUFFET STYLE  
Held in Paige Hall or under the Tent!

Two Seating Times 
SEATING ONE: 4:30pm-6:15pm
SEATING TWO: 6:30pm-7:30pm

Casual Dining * Open Seating * No Reservations    
All Feasts include... 
Tossed Salad with Maple Vinaigrette, Dinner Rolls, Dessert, Coffee & Soft Drinks     
 
Thank you for your support! 
Holland Community Center
Holland Community Center Events
40 Brimfield Rd, Holland, 413-245-3163
 
July 15, 1-2pm: DISC GOLF INSTRUCTION: Brock Jenkins, our Kitchen Chef, is an avid Disc Golf player. He has donated a Disc Golf Basket and now he's going to teach us how to play.
 
July 17, 6-7pm: PACE PRESENTATION: Zoraida Fontanez will be here to present you with information about the PACE program and what it can do for you. This is a very informative presentation and we encourage all who can, to join us.  
 
July 18, 1-3pm: KAYAKING ON LAKE SIOG: Join Brenda at Lake Siog to kayak around the lake for an afternoon of socializing and conversation.  
 
July 22, 1-2pm: PAINTING WITH APRIL: To go with our Sea Theme this month, the painting will be of a lighthouse. Thanks to the COA the cost of this class is $10. This class starts at 1pm. If you would like to join us for lunch at noon before hand, please let us know 48 hours in advance.  Lunch for this day will be Smoked Pork BBQ, Potato Salad, Dessert. Cost of lunch is $3 and $5 if you'd like a take-out.

July 23, 1-3pm: UNDER THE SEA PARTY: Calling all Mermaids and Mermen of all ages, come join us for light refreshments, activities, and games. This is our chance to do something for the younger crowd now that they are out of school.  Please RSVP so we can get a head count.
 
July 24, 1-3pm: MOVIE DAY AT THE CENTER: In keeping with our summer sea theme.  We will be showing JAWS 2 this week. Years after the shark attacks that left Amity Island reeling, Sheriff Martin Brody finds new trouble lurking in the waters. Mayor Vaughn wants to rid the beach town of the stain on its reputation. But the disappearance of a pair of divers suggests that all is not right. When Sheriff Brody voices his warnings about holding a sailing competition, everyone thinks its post-traumatic stress. That is, until a shark fin cuts through the water. Movies are always free at the Center. Movies start at 1pm. If you would like to join us for lunch at noon, please give us a 48 hour notice.  The menu for this day is Italian Grinders & Chips, Dessert. Cost of lunch is $3 and $5. if you wish to take-out. 
Join Stageloft for their 25th season and enjoy another year filled with laughter, music and inspirational performances!
7 Ways to Say I love You 
7 WAYS TO SAY I LOVE YOU
By Adam Szymkowicz
July 12 - 21
Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm
 
This collection of funny, sweet, silly, poignant and stylistically diverse short plays from New York favorite Adam Szymkowicz has something for everyone. From the awkwardness of asking out a pizza store clerk (Ambience Pizza), to a campy infidelity revenge comedy (Film Noir), to the couple destined to be together no matter the obstacles (John and April), this collection explores heart, grief, pain, and humor as the plays dance around the eternal human theme of love.
 
Presented by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc.
   
Visit online or call for tickets. 
Stageloft Theater         450A Main Street, Fiskdale         508-347-9005 
Fraud Prevention
Wednesday, July 17th, 5:00pm-7:00pm
Mapfre/Commerce Insurance
16 Sutton Road, Building D, Webster

Join us for a Seminar on Fraud & Scam Prevention
Our expert banking professionals, O'Connor Insurance Agency, Mapfre Insurance, and the Webster Police Department are teaming up to present how to avoid consumer and business fraud, imposter scams, and identity theft.

The Presenters:

Sabrina Webb
Cornerstone Bank Business Development
Sales Manager, NMLS #719015
Angela Sarna
Cornerstone Bank Business Development
Sales Manager, NMLS #719011
Daniel O'Connor
O'Connor Insurance Agency
Barbara Zurawski
O'Connor Insurance Agency
Lieutenant Gordon D. Wentword Jr.
Webster Police Department
Detective Joseph Reed
Webster Police Department
Representative
Mapfre/Commerce Insurance

RSVP to Sabrina Webb at 508-248-7323 by July 12th. Walk-ins are welcome.

Light refreshments will be served courtesy of O'Connor Insurance Agency.
 
Cruising for Charity Car Shows at Klem's 
June 5th through August 28th 
Every Wednesday 5 p.m. until Dusk  
 
2019 Weekly Show Classes 
July 17th, Week 7: Best 60's & Best of Show 
July 24th, Week 8: Best 70's & Best of Show 
July 31st, Week 9: Modern Muscle & Best of Show 
August 7th, Week 10: Best Truck & Best of Show 
August 14th, Week 11: Best Mustang & Best of Show 
August 21st, Week 12: Best Corvette & Best of Show 
August 28th, Week 13: Best of Season, Mason's Choice & Driver's Choice    
 
Please note that if there is a cancellation or rain out, the missed week's awards will be given out at the next cruise along with the scheduled awards. In the event that the Grand Finale show is rained out, the season will be extended one week in order to hand out awards.    
Donations Accepted. 100% of the profits go to the Masonic Children's Charity! 
 
Avellino
Cooking with Rico and Eric: A Tribute to Jacques Pépin
Thursday, July 18, 2019, 6:30pm

Jacques Pépin is world renowned as a French born American chef and as the host of popular cooking programs on public television. He has been cooking for 70 years and counting and has written 31 books, enlightening us about French food. He has also taught at Boston University for more than 30 years. Pépin was born in Bourg-en-Bresse, near Lyon. His first exposure to cooking was as a child in his parents' restaurant, Le Pelican. At age thirteen, he began his formal apprenticeship at the distinguished Grand Hotel de L'Europe in his hometown. He subsequently worked in Paris, training under Lucien Diat at the Plaza Athénée. From 1956 to 1958, Pépin was the personal chef to three French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle.

Moving to the United States in 1959, Pépin worked first at New York's historic Le Pavillon restaurant and studied at Columbia University, ultimately earning an M.A. degree in 18th-century French literature in 1972. In addition to his multifaceted career as a chef, author, and PBS television pioneer, Pepin was a columnist for The New York Times and writes a quarterly column for Food & Wine. He also is a popular guest on such commercial TV programs as The Today Show and Good Morning America.

Join us and experience how Jacques Pepin has influenced Chef Rico and so many other chefs throughout the years. Enjoy some favorite recipes from this culinary giant and hopefully, bring an idea or two home. This event is $55 per person with wine pairings, or $42 without. Tax and gratuity are not included. Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321. Visit online at www.avellinorestaurant.com.
Novena to Saint Anne
July 18-26 
 
Pilgrims of all Faiths are invited to a Novena to St. Anne. Our theme this year is "We Are All Called to Holiness, Each in Our Own Way". A variety of speakers and music ministries (African, Hispanic, Filipino, Polish and  Vietnamese) will enhance our liturgies. We have a procession reciting the rosary beginning at 6:30 pm with Mass to follow at 7:00 PM.
 
St. Anne's Shrine    16 Church Street     Fiskdale/Sturbridge     508-347-7338
 
Dock Dogs Days at Klem's
Friday, Saturday & Sunday · July 19th, 20th & 21st!

The World's Premier Canine Aquatics Competition

High Flying Dogs & Family Fun - Don't Forget Your Pet!
 
Free Admission, Prizes, Give-A-Ways, Adoption Events & More!
 
July 19: Second Chance Animal Adoptions from 2-4pm 
MOBILE ADOPTION UNIT is coming to Klem's! On the road to saving more lives!
Be sure to stop by and say hi to some of the sweet dogs and cats looking for a new home!
Let adoption help you find your next best friend. Dog Days of Summer!  
   
TLGV 25
TLGV's July Calendar of Events
 
TLGV Acorn Adventure with Horizon Wings: 10 -11:30 a.m., July 20, 9 Sand Hill Road, Ashford, CT. Tour the Horizon Wings Raptor Rehabilitation facility and meet the raptors. We'll meet all the birds and get to know the owls. We'll talk about the food chain and then we'll get to dissect owl pellets! Join us for this rare opportunity to see the amazing birds of Horizon Wings in their homes.  For more information contact Fran Kefalas at 860-774-3300 or fran@tlgv.org . Acorn Adventures are Sponsored by Putnam Bank.
 
TLGV Member Program - The Plight of the Bobolinks: 7-8:30 pm, July 31, 205 Roseland Park Rd. Woodstock, CT.  Bobolinks arrive in Connecticut after having migrated 5,000 to 6,000 miles from their wintering grounds in South America, traveling further than almost any other songbird. They arrive in our state at the beginning of May in search of open areas such as meadows, fields, or farmland to breed.  Eastern Connecticut's own Joanne Warren, Master Naturalist from the Goodwin State Forest and Conservation Center, will discuss problems facing the grassland bird species, and ways you can help protect them.  Join us for a 1-hour showing of the movie, Plight of the Grassland Birds, followed by a discussion. Refreshments will be served afterwards. RSVP Required: bill@tlgv.org or 860-774-3300.
 
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!
Beer
Craft Beer & Roots Music Festival
July 20, 2019 
Noon to 8:00pm
 
OSV's craft beer festival is BACK - complete with brews, bands, and bites! Nearly two dozen craft breweries from across New England will provide visitors an opportunity to sample and purchase some of the region's top beers and ales. At three stages, a variety of musical artists and bands will bring the sounds of Americana, bluegrass, country, folk and roots music to Old Sturbridge Village.

For those who are 21 and over, your paid admission* (or membership or season pass) to the Village includes a limited number of complimentary 2-oz samples of beer.  We will be checking IDs for everyone who wants to participate in the beer tasting so make sure to have a valid photo ID with you. You may also purchase additional full pours or sample cards.

PLEASE NOTE: The Museum is open for special hours on July 20, 2019, due to this event.  
The Village will be open from noon to 8:00 pm.

*Those with free admission passes to the Village and Sturbridge residents get free admission as usual, but must purchase beer sample tickets if they wish to sample beer.
 
Old Sturbridge Village
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road
Sturbridge MA 01566
www.osv.org/event/craft-beer-roots-music/
 
COMING IN AUGUST: REDCOATS & REBELS  
 
May 25 - September 2:
Open Wednesday - Sunday | 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
OSV  
Rewards Night
Rewards Night at the Worcester Bravehearts 
 
Tickets Only $6! Regularly $9! 
Save With Your EXCLUSIVE Discounted Ticket Valid For Klem's Rewards Members ONLY!

Choose From 4 Select Games With Fireworks Show, 3 Games left! 
Friday, June 28th...Bravehearts Won 7-4   
Saturday, July 20th
Friday, July 26th
Friday, August 2nd

Simply show your Rewards Card at the main gate on a select game date to receive the discount! Seats are based on availability. Limit 4 discounts per card.
   
Klem's             117 West Main Street, Spencer              508-885-2708
Cinemagic  
CABARET LULU PRESENTS
"LOVE IS THE THING"
Wednesday, July 24 2019, 11:30AM TO 2:30PM 
STURBRIDGE HOST HOTEL AT THE LAKESIDE THEATER, MA

"What does it matter if we're rich or we are poor?
Fortune and Fame they never endure 
Oh, LOVE is THE THING, LOVE is THE THING!"
A summer ice cream of laughter, sketches, audience participation, you will LOVE EVERY MINUTE!

YOUR MENU FOR THE DAY... 
Seasonal Soup or Tossed Seasonal Greens with 
Garden Vegetables with two dressings served on the side 
CHOICE OF: CHICKEN PICCATA in a LEMON CAPER SAUCE 
or HERB CRUSTED BAKED HADDOCK IN LEMON BUTTER 
ROLLS and BUTTER 
POTATO AND SEASONAL VEGETABLE 
CHEF'S SHORTCAKE 
COFFEE, DECAF, Assorted TEAS 
WATER on the tables

CALL FOR YOUR SPECIAL GROUP DISCOUNT PRICE 
FOR INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS 
CABARET LULU 
TEL: 212-308-8050 EMAIL: LUCIE9G@GMAIL.COM 
OUTSIDE METRO NEW YORK AREA CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-LULU (585-8872) 
Melody Beach Consulting
Is there an HR topic you'd like to know more about?
First Workshop: July 24, Noon, at McCurdy Group

Melody Beach Consulting is teaming up with Dennis A. McCurdy, CIC, CFP of McCurdy Group, and other subject matter experts for a series of six Brown Bag Lunch and Learn workshops on Human Resources topics. The workshops will be at noon on the third Wednesday of each month, with the exception of the first workshop, at Dennis' office at 212 Main St., Sturbridge.

The first workshop will be held July 24 at noon and the topic will be Employee Assistance Programs. We will talk about benefit trends and questions employers/EAP providers need to be asking themselves.
If you have any questions, contact Melody at
Gateway Players Theatre Auditions
Monster
"There's a Monster in My Closet"
 
Gateway Players Theatre will be holding Auditions for "There's a Monster in My Closet", by Angela D. Stewart, Music & Lyrics by Bill Francoeur will be held on Sunday, July 28th at 2pm and Tuesday, July 30th at 6pm in Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street, Southbridge. Entrance is on Park Street (around corner). Cast includes: 4 Teen Boys, 6 Teen Girls, 5 Adults, 1 Monster and 4 Children (age 8 or older).
 
Performance dates are October 4-6, 2019. Rehearsals will be on Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Presented by permission through special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Services. 
 
Lou-Ellen Corkum is the Director, and Kathi Grenier is the Producer. For questions about auditions call 508-764-4531 or 774-230-1321, and leave a message.

This program is supported in part by the Southbridge Cultural Council, a local agency, which in part is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Synopsis: 
Emily has a sleepover with her best friend Stephanie when they discover there's a monster in her closet! To investigate they recruit their friends to help capture the monster. What they don't know is that Murray, the closet monster, doesn't mean any harm. He only wants to play Emily's new video game. He's more scared of kids than they are of him!

When the Dream King hears that Murray is goofing off on the job, Murray is put on probation. It's a fact that when a child is born, a monster is assigned to watch over them - not play with their things. Other wonderful entertaining characters include Sandy the Sandman and his dream weavers, Emily's big brother and friends, and various inhabitants of the dream world.

Actors will be required to sing, dance and memorize lines. This may sound challenging but at Gateway Players Theater we strive to make every show fun for all. Check out YouTube videos of other productions of There's A Monster in My Closet.
The Publick House  
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 organizations will split a minimum of $4.00 from every dinner served!

July 29   
Pearl Crawford Library 
Polish American Veterans
TURKEY FEAST
 
CASH DONATION 
Adults $14 / Children $5
(4-12 yrs.) 
BUFFET STYLE  
Held in Paige Hall or under the Tent!

Two Seating Times 
SEATING ONE: 4:30pm-6:15pm
SEATING TWO: 6:30pm-7:30pm

Casual Dining * Open Seating * No Reservations    
All Feasts include... 
Tossed Salad with Maple Vinaigrette, Dinner Rolls, Dessert, Coffee & Soft Drinks     
 
Thank you for your support! 
Salem Cross Inn logo
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.  
 
A Wedding Wire Couples' Choice Award
and The Knot Best of Weddings Award recipient for 2019.
Farmers Dinner
Welcome to our sixth 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 gardeners, Austin and Barry, the herbs are grown by John Salem and the beef is raised by David Salem. Your dinner is prepared by our Chef 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 22 
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!
    
Our Lunch, Dinner and Hexmark Tavern
Summer menus are now available!  
Why not try one of our Summer offerings on our outdoor patio?
See the summer menus here
 
Outdoor Summer Grilling Begins July 10! 
Enjoy live music every Friday night starting at 6:30 pm    
 
Make sure to visit our Facebook page for updates (including weather), event photos and future menu postings!
   
Open Full Schedule:
APRIL 4-DECEMBER 30, 2019
Tuesday to Friday (Lunch & Dinner) - 11:30am to 9:00pm 
Saturday (Dinner) - 5:00pm to 9:00pm 
Sunday (Dinner) - 12 Noon to 8:00pm  
 
Hexmark Tavern: 
Tuesday to Friday (Dinner) - 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm 
 
Concerts on the Commons  
Town Common
West Brookfield 
Relax and enjoy live music on the West Brookfield Town Common!
ALL concerts are from 7-9pm. Bring chairs, blankets, picnics, and BUG SPRAY!
July 17 - The Kings 
July 24 - Dixieland Stomp  
July 31 - Game On  
 
East Brookfield 
Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Town Gazebo on Connie Mack Field 
(Concerts are cancelled if it rains!)
July 18 - Bad Tickers  
July 25 - Retro Stew  
 
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!
July 18 - Glenwood Mills Band with Mark Chevalier   Sturbridge Cultural Council  
July 25 - Abletones    Lions & Rotary Clubs   
 
Brimfield
Concerts start at 6:30pm. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket for sitting. Feel free to get up and dance. In the event of rain, the concert will be moved from Brimfield Common to Hitchcock Academy.
July 16 - The Luke DeRoy Trio
July 23 - Radio Ranch
July 30 - October Moon
 
Southbridge 
Music, good quality Family friendly entertainment! All performances are 6-8 pm on Fridays. 
Southbridge Common (1 Mechanic St)
July 26 - Trend N Motion (Hip Hop Performance Group)    
 
Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Thursday Evenings, 7:00-8:15pm
CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH CONFERENCE ROOM
46 Hall Road, Sturbridge
Village Toastmasters
Village Toastmasters is a local group focused on helping its members improve their public speaking and leadership skill while building confidence in their abilities.  
The club has recently moved its meeting location.

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.
Thank you to the Chamber of Central Mass South for serving as the new meeting location!
We are grateful to our community partners!

Guests are always welcome!!  
Please arrive 15 minutes early (6:45pm) as meetings start promptly.  
 
Coggno Training
Click on the image to browse our catalog of training courses! 
Save these Dates!
July 16: Fun at Five at Cedar Street Cafe with McCurdy Group   
July 17-21: C-MASS GEOFEST
July 18-26: Novena to Saint Anne
July 19-21: Dock Dogs Days at Klem's  
July 20: Craft Beer & Roots Music Festival at OSV    
August 1: Chamber Summer Outing: A New England Clambake at The Publick House 
  August 8: New Hope's Open House
August 10: Ribbon Cutting and Open House at the NEW Kid Power Gymnastics 

Thank you for posting your events to our Events Calendar!

Chamber logo with tag