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In This Issue
Group Travel Survey
Clambake Memories
Kid Power Ribbon Recap
TLGV's Calendar Photo Contest
Holland Community Center Health Fair
Register for Day of Caring
QCC Offers Free Training
SCU Promotes Thomasina (Nina) Caplette
Event Space at Baba Sushi
Wanted: Loan Officers
Cornerstone Bank Donates to Tri-Valley
Church Auction Sets Record
National Night Out
Harrington NEON Fun Run/Walk
TLGV Returns to Offices
Hometown Promotes Karen Yancik
Stageloft Show
Holland Community Center Events
Center of Hope Golf Tournament
Cruising for Charity Car Shows
Caregivers Connect
Dining Events at Salem Cross Inn
Cooking with Rico & Eric
Running Out of Summer 5K
Spencer Street pARTy
Tastes of the Valley
Rotary Club Golf Tourney
Publick House Feast
Muster Day & Kids Free!
Brimfield Shows
Concerts on the Commons
Village Toastmasters
24/7 Training
Save these Dates!
SCU Back to School Loans
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 August's CROSSROADS EVENTS!
 
You'll find this issue packed with mid-summer treats! We look back fondly at our Summer Clambake at The Publick House, a fun and absolutely adorable Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Kid Power Gymnastics and fill you in on news and happenings from many of our Members and friends. With a number of fantastic dining events, fun festivals, road races, free concerts, even a huge street party on tap, there is still a lot of summer left to enjoy! We hope your season has been unforgettable so far.
 
We would appreciate your opinion as the Chamber is considering offering group travel. If you have two minutes to take our 5-question survey, this will help us gauge interest in the program. The link to the Group Travel Survey is in the first article below. Thank you very much for participating!
 
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, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest for more from your Chamber!  

TAKE OUR GROUP TRAVEL SURVEY

The Chamber is considering offering a new service to members and the community - group travel. Many Chambers across the country have successful, annual group travel packages. To get an idea if this is something we should explore further, we would appreciate your candid responses to the following short (5-question) survey. If you have not participated yet, you can take the survey here:

THIS SURVEY CLOSES AT 11PM ON AUGUST 28.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR THOUGHTS!
Summer Clambake 2019 Recap
The Chamber and nearly 200 of our Members and friends enjoyed our summer outing, A New England Clambake, at The Publick House on the evening of August 1, 2019. Fantastic weather, a beautiful venue, a delicious feast, wonderful company... who could ask for more? Thank you to Country Bank and Savers Bank for sponsoring, our wonderful hosts at The Publick House, the band Worcester Jazz Collective, and all of our guests! Check out a slideshow from our website.

Kid Power Ribbon Cutting!

We had a terrific time on Saturday, August 10 as we cut the official red ribbon at the new Kid Power Gymnastics facility on Sturbridge Road in Charlton. Congratulations to Kelly, her family and all of her staff on their fantastic new building! It was such a treat to see so many happy, active children enjoying the day with us. Thank you to all who came out to celebrate! Looking for an exciting place to play? Visit Kid Power Gymnastics online to find out more!
Calling All Photographers!  
Show off Your Talent in TLGV's 2020 Calendar

The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) is searching for 13 photos that capture the unique spirit of the National Heritage Corridor. The selected images will appear in the 2020 TLGV Calendar and hang proudly in businesses and homes throughout the National Heritage Corridor and beyond!

Photos must convey the exceptional natural, historic and cultural resources of The Last Green Valley. We welcome photos of people caring for and enjoying the National Heritage Corridor, but we must have the subject's permission to publish the photo.

The TLGV Calendar is a full 8.5 by 11 inches, printed in color on high quality paper. The back cover includes a map of the National Heritage Corridor with additional information. The 2020 TLGV Calendar will be available through the TLGV online shop, with all proceeds supporting the programs and projects of the non-profit.

Winners who submitted the photos chosen for each month will be given 5 copies of the 2020 TLGV Calendar and their photo will be printed with their name and photo title. The photographer selected to illustrate the cover will also be featured in a press release about the calendar, in addition to receiving 10 copies of the 2020 TLGV Calendar.

Each photograph must be in color digital format, sized to 8 x 10 inches, and at least 300 dpi.

Contestants are asked to fill out one form per photo submitted and deliver them via email. There is a limit of three entries per person. Calendar Photo Contest forms are available online at thelastgreenvalley.org. All submissions will become the property of The Last Green Valley, Inc. Submissions are due by email no later than noon on Sept. 26, 2019. Send to LyAnn@tlgv.org, subject line "Calendar Photo Contest."  For more information, please call 860-774-3300 or send questions to LyAnn@tlgv.org, subject "Calendar Photo Contest."  

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!
Holland Community Center  
Annual Health Fair Seeks Participants 
 
The Holland Community Center will be holding its 3rd annual Health Fair this year on Tuesday, September 17th from 10 am - 2pm. We would be thrilled to have you host a table for us. Depending on how many we have interested in doing so, we will set up a separate room to give short presentations. Each presentation would be about 20 minutes long, with a set up and break down time of 5 minutes. Please contact the center for more info or to set up a time for that day, and to let us know you would like a table in the main hall. The center's phone number is 413-245-3163 and the email is activities@hollandma.org. 
Day of Caring
REGISTER FOR DAY OF CARING! 
 
The 13th Annual Day of Caring registration is open! We hope you are able to join! The day will be slightly different than in past years. The day begins with all the volunteers gathering at the Sturbridge Host Hotel starting at 7:30am for registration check-in, receive your T-Shirt and snack bag and start the morning with a hearty breakfast buffet. Everyone then leaves by 8:45am to arrive at their project sites, which you get to select during the online registration process! There is only ONE shift, 9am-1pm. So work with your co-workers, friends and family on a project
that interests you and enjoy the day!  
 
QCC Offers Free Training in Vital Business Skills
Free Upcoming Information Sessions being held in August

Massachusetts businesses can learn how to utilize free business training and learn vital business skills by attending one of Quinsigamond Community College's free upcoming information sessions being held on August 20, 21 and 22.

Companies that are eligible for these free training workshop opportunities must be located in Massachusetts, pay into the MA Unemployment Fund, which allocates money into the Workforce Training Fund, and hold a Certificate of Good Standing with the MA Department of Revenue.

Upcoming information sessions are located at three central locations:

Tuesday, August 20, 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., Marlborough Chamber of Commerce, 11 Florence Street, Marlborough
Wednesday, August 21, 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., QCC Southbridge, 5 Optical Drive, Southbridge
Thursday, August 22, 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., QCC's Center for Workforce Development and Continuing Education, 25 Federal Street, Worcester

Earlier this year QCC was awarded a $143,000 Direct Access Grant from the Workforce Training Fund to be used to train both employers and employees in essential business skills needed to remain competitive in today's global marketplace. This is the first time QCC has been awarded a Direct Access Grant, which is part of $2.98 million in Small Business Direct Access Program grants awarded to qualified training organizations.

"This the perfect way for businesses to work 'smarter not harder' by taking advantage of this state-wide program," said QCC President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja.

QCC chose to offer soft skills workshops due to the overwhelming need that was expressed by businesses in the region. The six workshops being offered this fall by QCC include:
  • Essential Business Skills
  • Time Management
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Presenting with Impact
  • Communicating with Clarity and Impact
  • Creative Problem Solving and Decision Making  
"Soft skills are not only highly valued in today's marketplace, they are necessary if the business and the individual are to succeed," said Dean of the Center for Workforce Development and Continuing Education, Kathleen Manning. "Strong soft skills ensure a productive, collaborative, healthy and effective work environment, key attributes for organizations in an increasingly competitive, global world."

For more information or to register for an information session, contact Business Services Specialist Christine McNally 508.751.7900 or Business Services Specialist Eileen Morgan at 508.751.7929.

For more information about QCC, contact Josh Martin, Director of Institutional Communications at 508.854.7513 or jmartin@qcc.mass.edu

Quinsigamond Community College provides the community with high quality, affordable higher education in Worcester County. As a regional leader in education and workforce development, QCC serves the diverse educational needs of Central Massachusetts by providing affordable, accessible, and high quality programming leading to transfer, career, and lifelong learning.
Southbridge Credit Union Promotes Thomasina (Nina) Caplette

T Caplette Please join us in congratulating Thomasina ("Nina") Caplette on her promotion to Mortgage Loan Originator! Nina is now part of our Lending Center Team in Southbridge. Although with Southbridge Credit Union for only almost one year, Nina brings 17 years of experience in the banking industry and 7 years of lending experience.

"As a long time local resident, I'm looking forward to creating strong bonds with our members and community in order to guide them through the process of their financial needs and goals," said Nina. She continued to say, "I'm also excited about enhancing my skills and becoming even more knowledgeable in this area. I'm excited to put my many years of banking experience to use in my new role as Mortgage Loan Originator." 

Nina can be reached at 508-909-7184 or via email: CapletteT@sbgecu.org. She looks forward to serving you soon! Congratulations Nina!
Baba Sushi
Book your next Private Function at Baba Sushi Sturbridge!
 
Baba Sushi Sturbridge has amazing function rooms that can accommodate any kind of event.  
Baba Sushi has been voted Worcester's Best Sushi Restaurant nine consecutive years in a row and a 5-time winner of the prestigious Worcester's Best Chef award. Chef Wilson Wang is pleased to bring the freshest, most original sushi creations to the newer Sturbridge, MA location.  
 
Get more info and see what they have to offer in this PDF document.
 
Baba Sushi Sturbridge
453 Main Street Fiskdale, MA 01518
774.304.1068
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)
Cornerstone Bank Makes Donation to Tri-Valley, Inc.  
Cornerstone Donation
Pictured here, L to R: Cornerstone Bank Business Development Sales Manager and Tri-Valley, Inc. Money Management Program volunteer Colleen K. Lord; Bank Chairman & CEO K. Michael Robbins; Tri-Valley, Inc. Protective Services Program Director Patricia Berthiaume; and Bank VP/Compliance, BSA and Security and Tri-Valley, Inc. Money Management Program volunteer Pamela L. LeBlanc
 
Cornerstone Bank recently donated $2,000 to Tri-Valley, Inc., an organization whose mission is to help seniors and people with disabilities live independently in their own homes.  
 
This donation will go toward the organization's Money Management Program. This program is a free service that assists low-income elders who are at risk of losing their independence due to an inability to manage their own finances. Volunteers are matched with elders who need help paying bills and other routine financial tasks. 
 
"Tri-Valley, Inc. provides exceptional quality care management for our elders and those who are disabled," stated Cornerstone Bank Chairman & CEO K. Michael Robbins. "We are pleased to assist the Money Management Program and help seniors manage their finances and keep their independence." 
 
For more information about the Money Management Program or if you would like to become a volunteer, please visit www.trivalleyinc.org, or call 1-800-286-6640.
 
A bout 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, on Facebook or call 800-939-9103.
Federated Church of Sturbridge & Fiskdale Auction Sets New Record
Auction Winners

Bidding was hot and heavy at this year's 70th Annual Federated Church of Sturbridge and Fiskdale Antique Auction on the Sturbridge Common with the Sturbridge Chair (#25 in the series) and The Publick House Chair (#48 in the series) commanding new record prices.
 
The enthusiastic audience hollered and cheered as auctioneer Gwen Carbone, of Robert E. Glass Auctioneers, deftly negotiated the price on both chairs to new heights, and gave each of the winners a standing ovation at the end of their hard-fought competition. When the dust settled, the Sturbridge chair sold for a new record for this series of $1,900 and the Publick House Chair sold for another new record price of $2,500.
 
These highly prized chairs, decorated in bronze powder stenciling with a lovely Sturbridge or Publick House scene by auction committee members Tim Bardsley and Brian Rhea, 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.
 
To watch a video of the exciting bidding online, visit the Federated Church of Sturbridge and Fiskdale Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FederatedChurchSturbridgeFiskdale.
National Night Out: Towns of Sturbridge & Southbridge
National Night Out
On Tuesday, August 6th, the Southbridge and Sturbridge Police Departments celebrated National Night Out on The Common in each town. This was the second year that Sturbridge P.D. took part and the first year for Southbridge P.D. Both towns had successful and well-attended events!

Southbridge Credit Union was thrilled to join both towns and host some activities for the kids while also getting to know our community better and providing families with information about our institution.
 
National Night Out is a community-building campaign which takes place once a year. This event promotes police-community partnerships and it also gives everyone the opportunity to meet and see the faces of our police officers, firefighters and other key emergency responders while also taking part in a variety of activities for all kids and their families to enjoy. If you missed this year, please be sure to check it out next year!
REGISTER TODAY! 
Harrington 2019
 
Fun Run/Walk For Behavioral Health
Saturday, September 21, 2019 9:30am
 
Wear your brightest, craziest NEON colors for a 1.5 mile single loop or 5K double loop starting and ending on the Southbridge Common at Southbridge AutumnFest 2019!
 
Adults: $30
Students/Seniors: $15
Children under 10: Free
(Early Birds save $5 - just register before 9/1/19)
 
Awards:
  • Best NEON Spirit Outfit - Individual
  • Best NEON Spirit - Team
  • Largest Participating Team
For more details and to register visit the link on Eventbrite.
UPDATE - TLGV Moving Back to its Office Space
 
The Last Green Valley, Inc. is returning to its offices at 203B Main St., Danielson, CT. We will be moving Tuesday, August 13 and the office will not be open until noon. We will welcome visitors and calls Tuesday afternoon.
 
TLGV had to vacate its offices in downtown Danielson as the landlord remediated asbestos and mold issues on the second floor of the building. TLGV has been located in temporary space at Quinebaug Valley Community College since early June.
 
"QVCC has been incredibly accommodating to us and turned a difficult situation for our organization into a far more manageable one," said Lois Bruinooge, TLGV's executive director.
 
TLGV also wants to thank ServiceMaster by Mason for its expertise and guidance during the remediation process.
 
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!
Hometown Financial Group Promotes Karen Yancik to Senior Vice President, Senior Compliance and Risk Management Officer
 
Karen Yancik Matthew S. Sosik, CEO of Hometown Financial Group, Inc., announced that Karen Yancik has been promoted to the position of Senior Vice President, Senior Compliance and Risk Management Officer. Yancik has responsibility for internal audit, compliance and risk management for the subsidiary banks of Hometown Financial Group; bankESB, bankHometown and Abington Bank.
 
Yancik joined the company in 1987 and has held significant positions in the areas of internal audit, compliance and risk management, and most recently, Vice President of Compliance and Risk Management.
 
Yancik received her Bachelor's Degree from Nichols College. She is also a member of the Massachusetts Bankers' Association Legal and Regulatory Compliance Committee, the Eastern Massachusetts Compliance Network and the Western Massachusetts Compliance Association.
 
Yancik resides in Dudley, Massachusetts with her twin sons.
 
About Hometown Financial Group, Inc.
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 .
"The function of freedom is to free someone else." 
  -Toni Morrison  
Newsies  
Stageloft Presents
DISNEY'S NEWSIES
Music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Jack Feldman, Book by Harvey Fierstein
Based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White
August 9 - 18
Fridays & Saturdays @ 8pm, Sundays @ 2pm
 
New York City, 1899. Jack Kelly and his ragtag team of newsboys make a meager living selling newspapers on the city streets. But when the prices of "papes" are hiked and the newsies are hung out to dry, there is nothing left to do but "open the gates and seize the day!" Led by charismatic Jack and independent, young newspaper reporter Katherine Plummer, the Newsies form a union and organize a strike against the greedy publisher of the New York World. Can a group of idealistic newsboys win against a foe as powerful as acclaimed publisher Joseph Pulitzer? Inspired by the true story of the 1899 Newsboys Strike, Newsies is an ebullient, joyful, and entertaining musical capturing the strength that young people have when they join together and stand up against injustice.
Presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)
    
Visit online or call for tickets. 
Stageloft Theater         450A Main Street, Fiskdale         508-347-9005 
Holland Community Center
Holland Community Center Events
40 Brimfield Rd, Holland, 413-245-3163
 
6th Annual Zucchini Festival & Antique Car Show 
August 18th from 12-4 pm at Holland Community Center

ANTIQUE CAR SHOW, RESTO MODS & HOT RODS - Register your antique car (pre 1995) and participate on our Antique Car show as well.  You can win in the following categories: "Best Car", "Best Retro Mod", "Best Hot Rod", "Best Interior", "Best Paint".  The price is $5 for each car entry.
 
Zucchini ZUCCHINI COOKOFF - The rules have changed back to the previous design used in past years, and there is no entry fee. Entries will be in three categories: Salads/Appetizers, Entrees/Casseroles, and Desserts/Breads.  As I mentioned, there is no entry fee but all entries must fill out an application AND submit the recipe.  Feel free to bring in a copy of your recipe, and the application earlier than the 18th.  You will purchase or grow your own zucchini.  Entries (food items) must be submitted on the day of the Zucchini Festival, August 18th, by 12:30 pm.  There will be no access to heating these entries unless you bring it in a crock pot or chaffing dish set up.  We prefer to see the items cut into bite size pieces if possible, if not, that's ok.  Please remember, the success of this event only works if you submit an entry.  Lots of people had said they were going to submit an entry last year and only two did.  Ironically for the same dish.  The winner in each category will win one of our new Zucchini green t-shirts.  It's lots of fun and gives you bragging rights till 2020.

CRAFTERS & VENDOR TABLES - Our event just wouldn't be complete without our vendor and nonprofit tables.  Any craft vendor or business can rent a table for $10.  If you are a nonprofit, you can join us for FREE.  
 
BAKE SALE - This year the Friends of the Holland Community Center are having a Bake Sale table.  We are looking for bake sale donations of any kind.  If you bake cookies or pies bring them in and we will separate them into sellable packages accordingly.  
 
CHINESE RAFFLE - Come down and try your luck at our Chinese Raffle.  We have some great donation already including jewelry, gift baskets, Christmas items, Table Runners & Quilts, and more! Of course, we are always looking for items we can use at our Raffle tables so please bring items down during the month of August so we can add them to our table.  
 
FUN THINGS FOR KIDS - For our second year in a row we are bringing back the bubble machine.  Wear appropriate clothing to run through the bubbles for hours of fun.  We will also have a face painter, a musician, a magician, the Spirit of Zucchini, crafts, and games.  
 
BOY SCOUTS MAN THE GRILL - Each year we pick a regional scout troop to participate in our Zucchini Festival.  This year the Sturbridge Boy Scouts will be cooking hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. and they get to keep all the profits.  It's always fun to have them join us.  
 
Email Activities@HollandMA.Org for more details. 
 
MORE EVENTS AT HCC 
August 21, 1-2pm: Grief - Repotting Ourselves: When left unattended, sorrow (whether from everyday losses such as broken trust or the loss of a loved one) accumulates and diminishes the flow of the life force. We learn how to connect with grief while not being overwhelmed by it. The unattended sorrow once felt, gradually peels away the layers, allowing one's heart to expand once again. Join our symbolic planting to allow yourself to move forward. Presentation is free, and starts at 1pm. If you would like to join us for lunch that day, the meal will be Pork Fajitas, Black bean salad. Cost of lunch is $3.00 and if you would like a take out, the cost is $5.00.
 
August 26, 1-3pm: MOVIE DAY AT THE CENTER: The movie today is Mary Poppins... When Jane and Michael, the children of the wealthy and uptight Banks family, are faced with the prospect of a new nanny, they are pleasantly surprised by the arrival of the magical Mary Poppins. Embarking on a series of fantastical adventures with Mary and her Cockney performer friend, Bert, the siblings try to pass on some of their nanny's sunny attitude to their preoccupied parents. Movie is Free and begins at 1pm after Lunch. If you would like to join us for lunch that day, the meal will be Crab Spring Rolls. Cost of lunch is $3.00 and if you would like a take out, the cost is $5.00. 
Center of Hope logo
COHF 13th Annual Golf Tournament
August 21, 2019  7:30am to 4:00pm
Heritage Country Club, Charlton 
 
Join the Center of Hope Foundation for our 13th Annual Golf Tournament!  
 
This fun filled day includes 18 holes of golf, a delicious dinner, raffles, prizes, games and GREAT company! Proceeds from this event benefit our Special Olympics Program, which provides our individuals the opportunities to participate in year round unified sporting activities, and our Holiday Giving Program, which provides gifts to children whose families are struggling in tough economic times.
 
View our website, www.thecenterofhope.org, to download the mail in pre-registration form or to learn how you or your business can sponsor this great event. Through your generosity, these programs can continue to grow.
 
Play, Socialize & Support a Great Cause!
 
Cruising for Charity Car Shows at Klem's 
June 5th through August 28th 
Every Wednesday 5 p.m. until Dusk  
 
2019 Weekly Show Classes 
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! 
 
Caregivers Connect  
Caregivers Connect
August 21, 5:30-7:30pm
Hitchcock Academy 
 
A unique opportunity for babysitters, nannies, and care providers to meet with families seeking reliable child care.  This two hour meet and greet is for both those seeking and providing the service.  Whether the need is daily, weekly, or occasionally this is the chance to make a connection. Additionally, staff from the D.C.F. foster care will be available to share information about becoming a foster care provider or respite worker for foster children. For more info or to register go to: www.hitchcockacademy.org 
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!
 
NEXT FARMER'S DINNER: SEPTEMBER 8, 2019 
     
Murder Mystery
September 13, 2019 
Salem Cross Inn and Cornely Productions present a Murder Mystery Dinner: 
Our interactive dinner theater, The Fashionable Murders. 
 
Guests may dress as casual, crazy, and comfortable as they choose, Most important, bring your thinking caps in case you are asked to solve a murder! 
 
The Murder Mystery Dinner is an advanced ticket purchase dining event.
Our next Murder Mystery Dinner is scheduled for September 13!

Make your reservations online, or call us today at 508-867-2345.
 
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
 
It's Outdoor Summer Grilling Season! 
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 
 
Avellino
Cooking with Rico and Eric: Cuban Cuisine
Thursday, Aug 22, 2019, 6:30pm

C uba's food culture is the direct result of several factors intermixing: the history of the different people who settled there, its island location, and its tropical climate. Cuban cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and other Caribbean cuisines. Some Cuban recipes share spices and techniques with Spanish and African cooking, with some Caribbean influence in spice and flavor. A small but noteworthy Chinese influence is rice. There is also some Italian influence. During colonial times, Cuba was an important port for trade and many Spaniards who lived there brought their culinary traditions with them. While the cubano sandwich has made it big stateside, there are a whole slew of other delicious Cuban dishes like torticas, ropa vieja, and comida criolla-that deserve your attention (and your appetite).

Join us and experience how Chef Rico and Chef Eric have been influenced by Cuban cuisine and enjoy some of their favorite recipes 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.
Second Chance 
Running Out of Summer 5K
August 24, 2019 
 
The Running Out of Summer 5k is a charity race to benefit Second Chance Animal Services, with locations in Central and Western Massachusetts. The race will start and finish at Rapscallion Brewery and is expected to sell out with a 500-runner cap this year. The event features live music, giveaways, and food and beer after the race. Taking place on August 24, 2019, the last weekend before Labor Day, this race is sure to be a fun and festive event.  
 
Learn more and Register today at racewire.com/register.php?id=10501. 
Spencer Street Party
Spencer Street pARTy
Join us on August 24th 11am-6pm - Downtown Spencer, MA!

The Town of Spencer is celebrating the local creatives,
both people and businesses in and around our town.

This event will have: Live Music and Dance Performances, Art Exhibits, Food Vendors,
Craft Vendors, Craft Beer Garden, Local Businesses, Interactive Activities, Activities for Children

Music:
11:30am-12:15pm     Zack Slik (Bluegrass/Americana)
12:15-12:45pm     Ladii Girl (R & B)
1:30pm-2:30pm    HoneyComb (Beat Box, Hip Hop, Electronic)
3pm-4:15pm    Gracie Day (Folk Rock)
4:45-6pm    Lobsterz from Marz (Jam-Grateful Dead)

Dance/Zumba Performance:
12:45-1

Comedy:
1:00-1:30, 2:30-3:00, 4:15-4:45

Activities & Demonstrations:
Live Blacksmithing by the WorcShop, Art Gallery by Massasoit Art Guild, Sword Fighting Circle by Primrose Pirates, Phoenix - Metal/Fire Sculpture, Silk Scarf Making by The Hot Pigeon, Face Painting, Spencer History Scavenger Hunt, Photo Booth, Sand Box for Kids by Bonds, Chainsaw Wood Carving, AND MORE TBA!

SUGDEN LIBRARY ACTIVITIES from 11am-3pm, Drop in, All Ages:
Stained Glass craft making & painting kindness rocks, Book reading 11am & 11:30,
Todd Civin will read his book in memory of Spencer French teacher, Philip Delongchamp titled "I Inherited Mr. D's Toe". We will paint kindness rocks with the message "Be Kind" in French ("Soit Gentil") to celebrate Mr. Delongchamp.

VENDORS: Food, Beverage, Artists, Crafters, Local businesses and Non-Profits
Beer Garden: Timberyard, Spencer Trappist, Kraftea

SPONSORS!
HUGE Thanks to Barnstorm, Cornerstone, Dumpster Services, Alpha Cars, Webster 5 Bank, Klem's, Bond, and Ahearn for their Platinum and Gold Level SUPPORT!!
Also big thanks to Dancing Hammer, Mercury Wire, Big Y, Black and White, Village Pizza and
Kostas Cafe!!
Thanks to these community supporting local businesses, we are able to create this event for you all for free!! So keep that in mind next time you are shopping in and around Spencer!!

Interested in being a Vendor/Sponsor/Volunteer - email us at SpencerstreetpARTy@gmail.com

Hope to see you there! Please invite and share with the Community!
Rain date set for Sunday 8/25
TLGV  
TLGV's Tastes of the Valley
August 25   
 
Tastes of the Valley: 4 p.m., Aug. 25, The Publick House, 277 Main St., Sturbridge, MA. Tastes of the Valley celebrates The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor's rich agricultural heritage and showcases the talents of the region's best restaurants and chefs. Join us for a one-of-a-kind dining experience that is also TLGV's largest annual fundraiser. The evening will include a cocktail hour and hors d'oeuvres, a four-course sit-down dinner, dessert and live and silent auctions. Tickets are $100 for members, $125 for non-members, which includes a membership to TLGV. For tickets or information call 860-774-3300 or visit TheLastGreenValley.org

Charity Golf Classic
Monday, August 26th, 2019

Check in: 9am
Tee time: 10:30am

Golf Foursome = $600
Individual Sign up = $150

Special Events and Prizes!
Featured Guest
Tom "Satch" Sanders, Boston Celtics and Hall of Fame Legend

A barbecue lunch will be provided on the course, social hour at 4:00 pm
and a full prime rib dinner will be served at 5:00 pm. Awards to follow.


Cohasse Country Club, 393 Eastford Road, Southbridge, MA

Contact Dave Zonia at 508-335-4550 or Bill Lemke at 508-347-7416
to request a registration form. Sponsorship opportunities also available.
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!

August 26 
Tri-Town Food Pantry
Kids in the Congo
BARBEQUE 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! 
mUSTER dAY
Muster Day
August 31, 2019
Old Sturbridge Village 
 
To supplement the meager armed forces, most early 19th-century farmers and craftsmen were required by law to serve in local militia units - the forerunner of today's National Guard. Fall militia musters often saw the various militia companies of several towns coming together for a regimental muster. These would have been grand spectacles with townspeople coming out to view visiting militia companies in their dashing uniforms. Come and join us for our fall muster day and cheer on your favorite militia company!

    Talk to members of two uniformed volunteer militia companies.
    Listen to early 19th-century martial music.
    Watch cannon and musket demonstrations.
    See a "Sham Fight" as rival militia companies square off against each other in the field.
    Our young visitors will get the chance to learn early 19th-century drill and marching with the militia officer's instruction and a toy gun.
    See the "striped pig" and learn how it was used to skirt the early 19th-century liquor laws. 
 
HEADS UP!
AUGUST 30 IS FREE FUN FRIDAY AT OSV! SEE MORE HERE
 
KIDS ADMITTED FREE IN AUGUST! 
During the month of August 2019, up to three kids 17 and younger are admitted FREE when accompanied by an adult paying full admission. Learn more here.
 
May 25 - September 2:
Open Wednesday - Sunday | 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
OSV  
Brimfield  
Brimfield Shows: September 3-8
 
The Brimfield Antiques and Collectibles Show has been dubbed "the Queen of the outdoor shows" and a Smithsonian Treasure. A New England tradition, the extravaganza represents the largest outdoor gathering of antique and collectibles dealers in the country with acres of tents showcasing the merchandise of thousands of dealers!  
 
THE CHAMBER WILL BE THERE GREETING VISITORS! THIS IS AN EXCELLENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY. CAN YOU LEND A HAND BY TAKING A SHIFT AT OUR INFO BOOTH?
CALL US AT 508-347-2761 TO FIND OUT MORE. 
 
Get the App! 
Here's a whole new way to do the Brimfield Shows! Get the smart phone app that uses GPS technology to help you find the treasures you seek at the Brimfield Shows! Great tool for shoppers and dealers! It even helps you find your car after a long day in the fields. Check it out and download this amazing app today! www.brimfieldapp.com
Concerts on the Commons  
Town Common

East Brookfield 
Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Town Gazebo on Connie Mack Field 
(Concerts are cancelled if it rains!)
August 15 - LeBeaus 
 
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 15: Southern Voice Band  (Sturbridge Tourist Association) 
August 22 - Good To Be King Tom Petty Tribute  (Betterment)
   Before the Concert on the Common on August 22nd, come early and enjoy  
some amazing and fun lawn games from 3:30 to 5:30! 
 
Southbridge 
Music, good quality Family friendly entertainment! All performances are 6-8 pm on Fridays. 
Southbridge Common (1 Mechanic St)
August 16 - Edwin Pabon Salsa Band    
August 23 - Gateways Players Perform "Stranger in the Attic"  
August 30 - Boston Baked Blues   
 
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!
August 21: The Center of Hope's 13th Annual Golf Tournament
August 22: Farmers' Dinner at Salem Cross Inn
August 24: Running Out of Summer 5K
August 24: Spencer Street pARTy   
August 25: Harrington Auxiliary Car Show
August 25: TLGV's Tastes of the Valley 
August 26: Rotary Club of Sturbridge Golf Classic
August 31: Muster Day at OSV
September 2: Labor Day 
September 3-8: Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Shows 

Thank you for posting your events to our Events Calendar!

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