CMS Chamber logo  

 

In This Issue
Annual Meeting Deadline
2020 CMS Chamber Scholarships
Spotlight on Tuscany
M2M Discounts
Planning for Healthcare in Retirement
2020 Regional Guide
February's Fun at Five
MOBD: Office Hours are Filled
Seeking Presenters, Hosts & Sponsors for 2020
Sturbridge Business of the Year Awards
Shaunna Monts Joins VentureCS
NBSB Thanks Community for Spreading Good Cheer
OSV Announces Partnership with Coggeshall Farm Museum
FrOST Annual Meeting Tonight
Cornerstone Sponsors the Canal District Shuttle
Who is SCU?
Wanted: Loan Officers
NBSB Warms Residents with Hearts for Heat Fundraiser
How to Successfully Negotiate Your Worth
Holland Community Center
Evening of Illumination
Warm Up! Fireplace Feast
Stageloft Theater
Auditions for "The Cemetery Club"
Free Community Supper
Winterfest at Rapscallion
Good Acoustics at The Barn
50+ Networking Group
Village Toastmasters
24/7 Training
SCU CR ad
Chamber of Commerce 
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
 
Laurie Cashman 
Chair 
Yellow Iris Farm
 
Erika Travinski
1st Vice Chair 
 
Jessica Bettencourt
Immediate Past Chair
 
Bruce Watkins
Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision
_________

Board Members

Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group  
 
Michael Checkosky
 
Angela Chviek
 
Kimberly Cobb
 
Craig Dolphin

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union 
 
Rich Eichacker

Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
 
 
Steve Gardiner

Les Gardner
Les Gardner Photography

 
Nathan Hardt
 
Leila Hurt
 
Lynn Mero
 
Rich Suitum

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 CROSSROADS EVENTS!
 
Today is the last day to RSVP for the Chamber's Annual Meeting on January 22. We're thrilled to have a terrific storyteller, Dr. Steinberg, the President of the Worcester Red Sox, as our guest speaker. Drop us a line by noon today to reserve your spot. Among the other important news in this issue you will find that our 2020 Regional Guide has arrived, our Planning for Healthcare in Retirement Brown Bag Seminar is filling up fast, it's time to apply for the 2020 Chamber Scholarships, and we congratulate the winners of the Sturbridge BUSINESS OF THE YEAR awards (all Chamber Members!). There is also info on February's Fun at Five, a free presentation on our Fall trip to Tuscany coming on January 29, plus much more from our Members and friends in this issue. 
 
WANTED: Your 2020 Events!   
We rely on you to share with us and our community your news and events. Whether your business employs thousands or you are a one-person operation, Crossroads is your platform to share your latest news and happenings. 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 to share them!  
 
Extra for Experts! Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest for more from your Chamber!  
CMS Chamber logo
  CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH 
ANNUAL MEETING 
JANUARY 22, 2020  
11:30am-1:00pm
RSVP DEADLINE  
IS NOON TODAY!  
THE BARN AT WIGHT FARM 
420 MAIN ST, STURBRIDGE
 
GUEST SPEAKER:  
DR. CHARLES STEINBERG 
PRESIDENT OF THE WORCESTER RED SOX 
 
AGENDA 
11:00-11:30  REGISTRATION & MINGLING 
11:30  WELCOME 
12:15  DR. CHARLES STEINBERG 
12:45  QUESTIONS & ANSWERS 
1:00  ADJOURN

MENU 
GARDEN SALAD SERVED WITH  
ROLLS & BUTTER 
NOT YOUR AVERAGE CHICKEN CORDON BLEU with SUPREME SAUCE 
SEASONAL RAVIOLI (VEGETARIAN OPTION) 
MASHED POTATOES 
BROCCOLINI 
APPLE CRANBERRY CRISP

COST 
$30 PER PERSON FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS (TABLES OF 8 FOR $225) 
$40 FOR NON-MEMBERS  
(TABLE OF 8 FOR $320)

PLEASE RSVP BY NOON ON 
JANUARY 15, 2020.
BY CALLING 508-347-2761 
 
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR:
QCC 

It's time to apply for the
2020 CMS Chamber Scholarships!

The Chamber of Central Mass South typically awards three $1000 scholarships per year. Scholarships are disbursed directly to the student upon presentation of grades from first semester completed after the award is announced and a minimum 3.0 GPA attained.

Students must be a resident or student within the towns served by the Chamber of Central Mass South. (Southbridge, Sturbridge, Charlton, Spencer, the Brookfields, Warren, Wales, Holland and Brimfield.)
For information call 508-347-2761.

The Chamber does not discriminate against an applicant because of race, color, sex/gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness.

Please return the completed application, transcript, recommendations and student essay
by April 1, 2020 to:

Scholarship Committee
Chamber of Central Mass South
46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA, 01566

Spotlight on Tuscany
September 30 - October 8, 2020
9 Days, 10 Meals
FREE Info Session on January 29 

Get away with your Chamber as we offer this 9-day trip to Tuscany in Fall of 2020!
 
We will be hosting a presentation about this trip for anyone who is interested in learning more on January 29, 5:00pm at The Chamber offices. Please RSVP by noon on January 29 to 
508-347-2761 or info@cmschamber.org
 
The trip includes a single hotel stay (Hotel Ercolini) from which you will visit Montecatini Terme, Florence, Lucca, the World War II Gothic Line, Pisa, take a cooking class, Siena (choose to visit a gothic cathedral or take a guided tour through a Siena neighborhood), take a Winery Tour, visit a Cheese Farm and San Gimignano.
 
These are just the highlights!!
You can also find pricing and more details.
 
For more information or to book, please contact
Patti Wilmot or Joe Fitzgerald at
(800) 267-1858 or (413) 668-6202
Remember... MEMBER TO MEMBER!
M2M logo  
 
We THANK YOU for KEEPING IT LOCAL... 
Brown Bag Seminar
Planning for Healthcare in Retirement
Presented by Christopher Mallon, Program Manager
Financial Planning & Investment Team at Cornerstone Bank
Tuesday, January 28 at Noon
Chamber Conference Room, 46 Hall Road, Sturbridge

FREE for CMS Chamber Members, $15 for non-Members.
Space is Limited! This session is filling up fast!
Please RSVP. Call 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org
to save your spot!
 
Feel free to bring your lunch. Use our microwave to heat it up! Relax, learn and grow with us!
 
This presentation includes an overview on Medicare, as well as some related planning strategies.
  • Key questions that will be answered in the presentation:
  • What is the current outlook for healthcare system in USA?
  • How much will my healthcare expenses be during my retirement?
  • When do I become eligible for Medicare?
  • How do I enroll or make changes (if I'm already enrolled)?
  • What are the different parts of Medicare & what do they cover?
  • What's the difference between traditional Medicare & Medicare advantage plans?
  • What are some strategies to help me save on my Medicare expenses (i.e. prescription coverage, etc.)?
  • Are there any helpful resources I should be made aware of?
If you've ever asked yourself any of the above questions and want to learn more - please register for this event!

Important note: This is NOT a product sales presentation of any kind and is kept strictly educational.

PRESENTER BIO: Christopher Mallon, Program Manager

Mr. Mallon serves as the Program Manager for the Financial Planning & Investment team located at Cornerstone Bank. In this role he is responsible for client engagement & marketing initiatives. Prior to joining, he spent over a decade partnering with top Financial Advisors across the Midwest and Northeast on behalf of some of the industry's largest asset managers; including Putnam Investments & Nuveen Investments. Mr. Mallon brings a wide array of Wealth Management, Practice Management & Investment expertise to the team. He is a both a registered Investment Advisor and Securities Broker and holds his Series 7 & 65 licenses. He is the proud father of identical girls and enjoys fly-fishing and golfing in his spare time.
  2020 Regional Guide  
2020 Regional Guide is in! 
 
Our 2020 Regional Guide & Membership Directory is hot off the presses! We will distribute copies at the Annual Meeting. You can download a lo-res PDF of the guide by clicking the image at right or stop by the office during business hours to pick up hard copies.  
 
These directories will be distributed to high traffic venues throughout our region over the next several months.  
NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Fun at Five!
Tuesday, February 18, 2020
5:00-7:00pm
Sturbridge Host logo
Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center
366 Main Street (Rte 20), Sturbridge, 508-347-7393

Join us for a Mid-Winter Warm Up Fun at Five at the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center. Enjoy a signature cocktail or two offered at a cash bar with complimentary soft drinks and water. Partake in tasty treats and appetizers!
Take a tour of guest rooms, the hotel's meeting space, and historic Oxhead Tavern.

You could win...
A Romance Package
($210 value)
Thanks to our host, the Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center!
The package includes an overnight guestroom for one night, a four course meal at
The Oxhead Tavern for two and Breakfast for two in our Greenhouse Restaurant.
(This package is available for one full year after the Fun at Five, based on availability. Peak blackout dates, such as New Year's Eve, will apply.)

Register for Fun at Five by email or phone.
508-347-2761
Cost is $12 for Members who pre-register,
$15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.
 
Thank you to our February Fun at Five Sponsor!
 
Center of Hope logo
The Center of Hope
The Center of Hope Foundation has been serving local individuals
with disabilities for more than 60 years.

The Center of Hope Foundation provides people with disabilities and their families
the employment, day services, social and other opportunities
to be contributing members of their communities,
and to achieve the most fulfilling and meaningful lives possible.
 
100 Foster Street, Southbridge, 508-764-4085
 Mass. Office of Business Development: Office Hours at the Chamber The Session is Filled. Request an Appointment for next time! 
 
We are very pleased to announce that on Thursday, January 16 we have state leaders available at the Chamber of Central Mass South to meet with you to discuss your specific business needs as well as state-provided resources that may be available to meet those needs. All available appointments have been booked for this session.
 
If you would like us to contact you to save a spot for MOBD's next visit, or if you have any questions, please contact Alexandra McNitt at 508-347-2761 or email: alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org 
Present a Brown Bag Seminar, Host or Sponsor Fun at Five in 2020

The Chamber's Education Committee is currently planning our schedule of Brown Bag Seminars for the first half of 2020. Typically 1 hour long, these seminars are intended to attract intimate audiences of 5-30 people. Seminars are held at the Chamber office on the 4th Tuesday of the month at noon.
 
Presenting a Brown Bag Seminar is a great way to shine a spotlight on your business and the services you offer. You create the lesson plan, we do the rest including creating the invitations and promoting your seminar.
 
We are now planning for the months of March, April, May and June. If you are interested in sharing your expertise with your fellow Chamber Members while promoting yourself and your business, we would love to hear from you!
 
Just drop Alix a line with the topic you would like to present and your preferred month to get the ball rolling! Email Alix at alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org 
 
 
Fun at Five logo
Host or Sponsor a Fun at Five
The Chamber is also planning its schedule of monthly networking events for the year. If you are interested in hosting or sponsoring a Fun at Five, contact Alix and she'll give you all the details. Our next opening is March's Fun at Five.
Call or email Alix for more info. 508-347-2761 


Sturbridge Business of the Year Award - Winners Announced

Beginning at the end of November, the Sturbridge Tourist Association (STA) announced they were seeking nominations for the first ever Sturbridge Business of the Year Awards. Businesses could be nominated in one of four categories: Shop, Eat, Stay or Play. After that announcement, the STA collected nominations for the award through the first few weeks of December via an online nomination form. By the close of the nomination period, the STA had received seventy-five nominations for Sturbridge businesses. At their December 17th meeting STA members reviewed all of the nominations and selected the following four businesses as the 2019 winners:
The STA is proud of all of its winners. For winning the 2019 Business of the Year, the STA is awarding each business with the following:
  • Recognition at the January 21st meeting of the Board of Selectmen with the presentation of the award (public is welcome to attend)
  • A $1,000 reimbursable marketing grant to promote their business in 2020
The STA would like to congratulate all those businesses who received nominations for their hard work in 2019. The STA would also like to thank all those who helped nominate these fantastic Sturbridge businesses. The Business of the Year award will continue going forward, so the STA encourages all businesses to continue all of their great efforts in 2020.
Shaunna Monts Joins Venture Senior Management Team
Accomplished HR Executive Named as Vice President of Human Resources

Shaunna Monts Venture Community Services, one of the Commonwealth's leading providers of innovative human services has announced the selection of Shaunna Monts as its new Vice President of Human Resources & Professional Development. In this role, Shaunna will oversee all of the agency's HR initiatives compliance, while ensuring HR is aligned with Venture's vision.

Shaunna brings over 15 years of professional experience to Venture and has a strong history of human resource management that includes strategic initiatives, employee retention programs, labor relations, policy management and employee development.

She most recently served as The Director of Human Resources for Wellmore Behavioral Health where she served an employee base of 350 people who provided clinical and home-based treatment to those in need. Shaunna has also held positions in the HR field at Community Health Resources, The Metropolitan District and American Medical Response. She has served on the Diversity Committee of the Human Resources Association of Central Connecticut, the African-American Affairs Commission and on the board of Jewish Family Services.

"We are very pleased to have Shaunna join our Senior Management Team," said Venture President & CEO Mike Hyland. "Shauna brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to Venture's workforce and mission."

Shaunna received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development & Family Resources from University of Connecticut in Storrs and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of New Haven as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of Hartford in West Hartford, CT.
 
Venture Community Services is committed to providing compassionate, person-centered services that assist individuals and families in reaching their goals. What began as an organization with two small group homes has grown into one of the largest human service providers in Massachusetts, and with over 750 employees, one of the largest employers in the Worcester County area. Venture encourages independence through a continuum of support which includes community residential services, day programs, supported employment, transportation, autism supports and shared living.
North Brookfield Savings Bank Thanks Community  
for Spreading Good Cheer through Toy Drive 
NBSB Toy Drive
North Brookfield Savings Bank branch locations each collected toys for their local communities to help spread joy and holiday cheer. Shown are just a small portion of the toys collected and donated to families in need. From left to right are North Brookfield Police Officers Kyle Cassavant and Jeffrey Martin, Brianna Kilborn of North Brookfield Savings Bank, North Brookfield Police Officer Richard Caron, North Brookfield Savings Bank Branch Manager Tammy Gustafson and North Brookfield Police Sergeant David Churchey.
 
North Brookfield Savings is pleased to announce the overwhelming success of its Annual Toy Drive, which was held during November and into December of 2019. In total, the Bank collected over 2,900 toys thanks to the generous customers, community members and NBSB employees who shared some kindness and supported their communities by making donations. In addition, North Brookfield Savings Bank donated $1,750 to local toy programs to further help those in need during the holiday season.
 
For the Toy Drive, the bank accepted donations of new and unwrapped toys for children at any of its branch locations. This year's donations from community members included several impressive items such as bicycles, scooters, and oversized stuffed animals among many other various board games, puzzles, dolls, trucks, crafts and toys. All toys collected were donated to local toy programs in local communities, to ensure that children in need were able to receive holiday presents.
 
"Each year we look forward to supporting our communities during the holidays by partnering with local toy donation programs. This gives us the chance to join together with our neighborhoods to share kindness and bring joy to community members in need," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO Donna Boulanger. "This year was no different. We truly appreciate the efforts of all the local organizations that manage these programs. The generosity of our customers, community members and employees is heart-warming. Thank you all for making our Annual Toy Drive a great success once again."
 
North Brookfield Savings Bank proudly partnered with the North Brookfield Police Association's Toys for Joys Program, the East Brookfield Toys for Joy Program, the West Brookfield Police Association Holiday Toy Program, the Ware Police Department Christmas for Kids Program, the Belchertown Holiday Toy Program, and the Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program.
 
With their established core values at the hearts of everything they do, North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to continually give back, show support, share kindness and be an integral part of their local communities. 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.
Old Sturbridge Village and Coggeshall Farm Museum Announce Partnership
Old Sturbridge Village will take on management of Coggeshall Farm Museum,
invest in living history in the New England area
   
On Jan. 1, 2020, Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) in Sturbridge, M.A., and the Coggeshall Farm Museum in Bristol, R.I. launched a transformational partnership intended to sustain and expand living history in the New England area. Under the agreement, Old Sturbridge Village will manage the Coggeshall Farm Museum, handling all back-office functions, supporting day-to-day activities, bringing new programming to the Farm and positioning OSV President and CEO Jim Donahue as Executive Director at the R.I.-based museum.
 
The Coggeshall Farm Museum sees about 10,000 visitors annually, while Old Sturbridge Village brings in over 260,000 in an average year. Through this partnership, Coggeshall Farm Museum will benefit from the proven success and knowledgeable staff at Old Sturbridge Village - expanding opportunities for reach and visitation. The two entities will work collaboratively to rebuild the successful agricultural and horticultural programs that the Farm is known for, while introducing new programs and experiences that have seen past success at OSV. Two full-time employees from the Village will be stationed at the Farm year-round to oversee new and existing operations, supervised and supported by the team at Old Sturbridge Village.
 
This partnership provides a mutual benefit to the two museums, which are synergistic in both mission and organizational structure. Old Sturbridge Village interprets life in an early 19th-century rural New England village, while Coggeshall Farm Museum interprets life on a marsh farm in the 1790s. In this partnership, Old Sturbridge Village will bring greater sustainability to Coggeshall Farm Museum and help better utilize financial resources. A small management fee, paid to OSV by the Farm, will be invested back into the larger initiative of supporting living history as a critical piece of the New England experience.
 
"When visitors come to Coggeshall Farm Museum and Old Sturbridge Village, we want them to find meaning and relevance in the stories of the lives of New Englanders who came before us," says Jim Donahue, President and CEO at Old Sturbridge Village. "We want them to be inspired to learn a craft, to raise a garden, to farm and to find out more about the people who lived in our community two centuries ago. We hope that our visitors become members - and that our members find their inner historians, curators, farmers and crafters through experiences at both of our museums."
 
Donahue also gave credit to the boards of both museums for having a bold vision for sustaining living history in the region through this partnership.
 
More information on this partnership can be found at: osv.org/coggeshall
 
About Old Sturbridge Village
Old Sturbridge Village, first opened to the public in 1946, is one of the country's oldest and largest living history museums, celebrating life in early New England from 1790-1840. It is the largest living history museum in the Northeast. Each year, more than 250,000 visitors interact with costumed historians, experience up-close demonstrations of early American trades, and meet heritage breed farm animals. Situated on 200 scenic acres, the Village is a collection of more than 40 historic buildings - including homes, meetinghouses, trade shops, working farms and three water-powered mills - restaurants, shops, the Old Sturbridge Academy Charter School and the Old Sturbridge Inn and Reeder Family Lodges.
 
Located just off the Massachusetts Turnpike and Routes I-84 and 20 in Sturbridge, Mass., Old Sturbridge Village is open year-round, but days and hours vary seasonally. Daily admission is: $28 for adults, $26 for seniors, $14 for College Students, $14 for children ages 4-17, and children 3 and under are admitted free. Each admission includes free parking. Village Members and Season Pass holders receive free standard daytime admission. For details, visit www.osv.org .
 
About Coggeshall Farm Museum
Coggeshall Farm Museum was incorporated in 1973 as "a quiet, authentic place for 20th-century Americans to observe the lifestyles of 1750 Rhode Island." In the last decade, interpretation of the site has refocused primarily on the 1790s, the decade between the American Revolution and the Industrial Revolution, known as the Federalist Era.
 
The Coggeshall Farm Museum preserve and interprets this 1790s Rhode Island salt-marsh farm. It serves the local community and beyond as a living museum and vital educational resource through demonstration of daily farm activity and honest interpretation that reflects its historical, multicultural influence. For details, visit: www.coggeshallfarm.org .
TONIGHT: Friends of Sturbridge Trails to Hold Annual Meeting

Sturbridge Trail enthusiasts can join in with all those who support and love our Sturbridge trails at The Friends of Sturbridge Trails (FrOST) 6th annual meeting, to be held on Wednesday, January 15th at 7 PM, graciously hosted by The Publick House.

Presentations include a special presentation on developing "flow trails" on the Riverlands Property, an update on the three ongoing trail grant projects totaling over $700,000.00, a special drone video presentation of the Leadmine trails, and an update on the 2019 work effort and the 2020 plans of our trail committee.

Copies of our 2020 event calendar will be available, which includes 2 Yoga in the fields trail hikes, an early morning light photography hike, a trail dedication and celebration, and our famous "Night Hike" returns again this year, along with several other hikes and bike rides. The recently updated Sturbridge Trails Guide will be available and so much more!

FrOST Membership is open to anyone and dues will be collected. Thanks to our members, all FrOST events are open to the public at no charge.

For more information visit our Facebook page at:
or email us at: Sturbridgetrails@gmail.com
Cornerstone Bank Makes Three-Year Commitment to Sponsor  
the Canal District Shuttle

Pictured here, holding a presentation check outside of Crompton Place building during October: Cornerstone Bank AVP Senior Business Development and Sales Manager Nada Kanaan; Cornerstone Bank Chairman & CEO K. Michael Robbins; Cornerstone Bank VP Commercial Team Leader Jim Sandagato; Canal District Developer Edward Murphy; Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer Todd Tallman; Owner of Crompton Place Dino Lorusso; and Canal District Developer Allen Fletcher.

Cornerstone Bank is honored to announce its recent three year, $60,000 commitment to sponsor the Canal District Shuttle. The shuttle provides free service to employees and customers of the Canal District by driving from four satellite parking lots and making stops throughout the district.

The area is a popular dining and shopping destination and the traffic is likely to increase with the addition of Polar Park. The Canal District shuttle will offer convenience to those parking off-site.
These lots are located at 156 Washington Street, 172 Washington Street, 182 Washington Street, and 9 Langdon Street, creating over 200 free parking spaces.  

"It is an exciting time for Worcester, and we're happy to be able to contribute with a sponsorship that will help both businesses and customers," said Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer Todd M. Tallman. "We are pleased to support the Canal District and their expansions," commented Cornerstone Bank Chairman & CEO K. Michael Robbins.

For more information on the Canal District Shuttle, visit www.canaldistrictshuttle.com.
Who is SCU?
We've Got You
We've Got You

At SCU, we are volunteers. We are coaches. We are friends. We are neighbors. We are community. We've got you.

SCU is a not-for-profit, membership-owned financial institution. Known for our strong consumer-orientation, we are organized to serve our community. SCU, incorporated in 1938, is a community credit union with both federal and private deposit insurance. You may become a member at any time.

Check out Southbridge Credit Union's new video on YouTube! Visit online to find out more.
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)
North Brookfield Savings Bank will Help Keep Residents Warm through NB Hearts for Heat Fundraiser and $2,000 Donation
$2,000 donation and fundraiser collection will make possible much needed fuel payments 
NBSB Hearts for Heat
North Brookfield Savings Bank presented a $2,000 donation to the North Brookfield Chapter of  
Hearts for Heat. 
From left to right:  NBSB Senior Vice President of Retail Banking Patty Ostrout, Hearts for Heat North Brookfield Chapter Board Members Sue Lewandowski, Crystal Caron, Ellen Smith with NBSB Assistant Vice President/Marketing Manager and Hearts for Heat board member Caitlin O'Connor. Not shown are Hearts for Heat Board Members Tom Lewandowski, Michele Petraitis, and Tina Buzzell.
 
North Brookfield Savings Bank is no stranger to helping their neighbors in need when it matters most. With the New Year underway, and winter weather in full swing, the Bank is continuing their support of a vital, longtime community partner, the North Brookfield Chapter of Hearts for Heat. Not only has North Brookfield Savings Bank recently made their annual $2,000 matching donation to help North Brookfield residents stay warm during cold winter months, but the Bank's North Brookfield Branch will kick off 2020 by hosting a community fundraiser "Warm Hearts, Warm Homes" to benefit the organization.
 
Want to donate? Anyone is welcome to visit the North Brookfield Branch location at 9 Gilbert Street in North Brookfield to make their donation into the collection jars at the branch designated for the "Warm Hearts, Warm Homes" campaign.
 
All donations will directly support the North Brookfield Chapter of Hearts for Heat, a community-based, non-profit organization dedicated to confidentially providing payments for fuel, including oil, gas, and wood, to North Brookfield residents on a fixed income, including the elderly, those who are disabled or sick, and unemployed or underemployed individuals and families.
 
"North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to continue our partnership with the Hearts for Heat North Brookfield Chapter and to help our local neighbors to stay warm," said Caitlin O'Connor, NBSB AVP/Marketing Manager and NB Hearts for Heat Board Member. "It is an unfortunate truth that many people struggle to afford their fuel payments, often having to make the difficult choice between heating their homes, feeding their family, or other important needs. Every donation received, no matter what amount, will help local residents of North Brookfield."
 
North Brookfield Savings Bank is committed to supporting their local communities and knows that just one small act of kindness can extend beyond the initial act. The "Warm Hearts, Warm Homes" campaign aligns with the Bank's established Core Values of "Support Our Communities" and "Share Kindness" and will help bring comfort and peace to local residents.
 
"With North Brookfield Savings Bank's sustained generosity combined with the kindness and support of our amazing community members, the Hearts for Heat North Brookfield Chapter is able to help our local friends and neighbors who are in need of fuel assistance during the colder months," said Sue Lewandowski, Hearts for Heat North Brookfield Chapter Founder & President. "On behalf of the Hearts for Heat Board Members, and the North Brookfield residents who are assisted, I wholeheartedly thank you for your continued support."
 
In addition to the North Brookfield Savings Bank's "Warm Hearts, Warm Homes" campaign, The North Brookfield Chapter of Hearts for Heat will be hosting their annual Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser on Saturday, January 25th from 5-7PM at the North Brookfield Elementary School Cafeteria, featuring live music, raffles and delicious food, all for a good cause. To learn more about this event visit the Hearts for Heat Facebook page. For more information about Hearts for Heat, visit www.HeartsForHeat.org .
"I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past." -Thomas Jefferson 
How to Successfully Negotiate Your Worth
TODAY: January 15, 11:45am-1:00pm, The Publick House 
 
Gain confidence and improve your negotiation style with these tips to help you better identify and articulate your worth.
 
Guest Speaker Rachel Ferreira, Director of the Institute for Women's Leadership, Nichols College.
 
Before she started working at Nichols College 6 years ago, Rachel Ferreira's focus was on human rights and access to education working in the non-profit sector. In her current role as Director of Nichols College's Institute for Women's Leadership, she works to bring awareness and advocacy to the issues that face women in their professional lives, acts as a resource for female students at Nichols, as well as engaging both men and women in the conversation to bring about change in the wage gap, underrepresentation in leadership, and confidence gap, in addition to other topics addressing women in the workplace.
 
$20 Members, $30 Non-members. Advance registration required:
Holland Community Center Events
 
Belly Dancing for All: Jan 6-Dec 28, 2020, Monday nights 6-7pm. Cost: $5 per class/$3 for seniors.
Want a fun, low-impact way to get in shape? Try this Beginner Bellydance class. Your instructor Dina LeDuke has been performing, choreographing, and teaching the art of Bellydance for over twenty years, and she will teach you exciting new ways to keep your body moving in your middle years and beyond. Bellydance is good for the female body and soul, guaranteed to help you get in touch with your feminine mystique. Class includes includes a yoga-based warmup, a meditation cool-down, and a good core workout. Bring a water bottle, wear comfortable workout clothes, and tie a scarf around your hips to accent their movements.
 
Alzheimer's - The Basics: January 15, 1:00pm to 2:00pm .   This program provides information about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, the benefits of early detection, causes and risk factors, treatment and support resources.
 
40 Brimfield Rd, Holland, 413-245-3163
Old Sturbridge Village
Eve
Fridays, January 17 & 31
 
How did New England families spend their evenings before the intrusion of texting, telephones, TVs and computers? Visitors to Old Sturbridge Village will get a rare chance find out as they tour the historic Village lit only by candles, oil lamps, lanterns, and firelight during Old Sturbridge Village's "Evening of Illumination."  Guided by lantern light around the Village Common, guests visit select homes and shops to see how early New Englanders spent their evenings in the days before electricity. Visitors will be treated to music and storytelling throughout the tour, and will see Village artisans at work by candlelight.
 
Following the tours, visitors return to the Bullard Tavern for light refreshments, mulled cider, and a cash bar.  Tours are limited to 15 people, and leave from the Visitor Center every 10 minutes from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
 
Advance registration is recommended as this event historically sells out.
 
According to Old Sturbridge Village historians, early New Englanders stayed warm and productive during the fall and winter despite dwindling daylight and long hours of darkness. With light and heat coming only from candles, oil lamps, lanterns, and fireplaces, 19th-century families gathered around the fire and played music, games, or listened quietly as someone read aloud by candlelight. In contrast, today's hectic schedules rarely allow for quiet time like this in the evening - unless the power goes out in a snowstorm.
 
Also check out WINTER WARMTH AND CHEER.  
Weekends from January 11-February 23.  
 
MUSEUM HOURS
Through February 9, 2020: Open Weekends | 9:30 am - 4:00 pm 
 
 
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 2020.
 
graphic-heart.gif  
Valentine's Day! 
Bring your significant other and have dinner with us at 
Salem Cross Inn for Valentine's Day. 
We will be open all day on Friday, February 14. 
Call us today at 508-867-2345 to make your reservations. 
 
Warm up at Fireplace Feast this month! January 17, 24, 26 & 31  
Take a trip back in time and enjoy our 1700's colonial inspired feasts,  
prepared on the open hearth of a great fieldstone fireplace.
Make your reservations online or call Salem Cross Inn at (508) 867-2345.
Fireplace Feasts run through April! 
 
Visit our Facebook page
for updates (including weather), event photos and future menu postings!
   
Main Dining Room Hours: 
Winter Schedule (Starting January 1st, 2020): 
Friday (Lunch & Dinner) - 11:30am to 9:00pm
Saturday (Dinner) - 5:00pm to 9:00pm 
Sunday (Dinner) - 12 Noon to 8:00pm
 
Hexmark Tavern Hours 
Winter Schedule (Starting January 1st, 2020): 
Friday (Dinner) - 4:00pm to 9:00pm
 
White Liars
THE WHITE LIARS & BLACK COMEDY
Two Classic One-Act Comedies by Peter Shaffer
January 10 - 19
Fridays and Saturdays @ 8pm, Sundays @ 2pm

  The White Liars depicts a fateful encounter between a down-and-out fortune teller, a rock musician, and his agent. The agent bribes Baroness Lemberg to fake some hocus-pocus over a crystal ball, ostensibly to discourage the musician from pursuing his girlfriend. The trickery entangles each of them in a dense web of mendacity.

In Black Comedy, lovesick and desperate sculptor Brindsley Miller has embellished his apartment with furniture and objects d'arte "borrowed" from the absent antique collector next-door, hoping to impress his fiancée's pompous father and a wealthy art dealer.

A joint production by BEAT Theatre Co and Stageloft Repertory Theater with permission from Samuel French, Inc.

  View the website for more information on all Stageloft events
including youth performances, concerts and more.

Visit online or call for tickets.
450A Main Street, Fiskdale         508-347-9005
Gateway Players: Auditions for "The Cemetery Club"  
 
Gateway Players Theatre of Southbridge, will be holding auditions for "The Cemetery Club", by Ivan Menchell, on Sunday, January 19th and Monday, January 20th at 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street, Southbridge. Entrance is on Park Street (around corner). The cast for this Romantic Comedy includes four women and one man. All characters are in their late fifties to early sixties. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script.  
 
Performance dates are April 3, 4, 17, 18 and 19. Rehearsals will be on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Presented by permission through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. 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.    
 
Synopsis:  Three Jewish widows meet once a month for tea before going to visit their husbands' graves. Ida is sweet tempered and ready to begin a new life; Lucille is a feisty embodiment of the girl who just wants to have fun; and Doris is priggish and judgmental, particularly when Sam the butcher enters the scene. He meets the widows while visiting his wife's grave. Doris and Lucille squash the budding romance between Sam and Ida. They are guilt-stricken when this nearly breaks Ida's heart.
Free Community Supper
January 25, 4:30-6:00pm 

As part of the mission of Elm Street Congregational Church, our members provide a Community Supper to Church members and any resident of the greater Southbridge community each month. Please note that the suppers are held on the fourth Saturday of the month.  
The suppers are FREE, with donations accepted.

SIMPLE SUPPER
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25th
4:30pm-6:00pm
ALL ARE INVITED
CHICKEN CORN SOUP
JUST-BAKED BREADS & SPREADS
SALAD
DESSERTS
BEVERAGES

We are always looking for people to help out with the preparation and serving of the supper.  
If you can help out in any way, please contact the church office.

Fellowship Hall, Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street, Southbridge, MA, 508-764-8058

 
 
Winterfest at Rapscallion 
January 25-26, 2020
 
Join Rapscallion for an epic Winterfest 2020... with a great line up of beer on tap and musical acts all weekend long.
 
The Barn 
  Good Acoustics - An Acoustic Tribute to Simon Garfunkel & James Taylor
 
Friday, January 31 at The Barn at Wight Farm
 
Come along and listen to the songs of James Taylor and Simon and Garfunkel faithfully recreated by Good Acoustics. These are the songs that defined more than three decades of chart-topping hits that bring you back to simpler times in the relaxing and beautiful atmosphere of The Barn at Wight Farm. This show is comprised of a rock-solid trio that have been performing all over the east coast for over 30 years. This show will simply amaze you at the harmony displayed by these very talented musicians.
 
All shows are accompanied by a buffet meal with several protein options*, including salad and rolls. House-made desserts can be purchased at an additional charge. Doors open at 6:00 pm, buffet at 6:30 pm, music starts at 8:00 pm. Ticket prices range from $40-$55 and can only be purchased at Eventbrite.com.
50+ Job Seekers Networking Group
NETWORKING WORKS!! Your AGE really is your EDGE!! 
Fall has Arrived! A Perfect Time to Turn Over a New Leaf!

Funded by AARP and Managed by MCOA, we have expanded our 50+ Job Seekers Regional Networking Group program to support and assist people in the 50+ demographic living in the greater central mass area and looking for a new job, a totally new career direction, re-entering the workforce after an employment gap or looking for a Second Act career.  
 
Meet and network with fellow job seekers at our bi-weekly networking group meetings. Learn how to Network!
 
New Topic at each Meeting!  Come join Melody Beach, an experienced Human Resource professional who is the Facilitator for this collaborative Networking Group.  
Start your journey towards self-realization, re-invention and transformation!
 

WHO: Mature Job Seekers! That's YOU! (50 years of age +)

 

WHEN: Our First meetings began in September and typically we will be meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Doors open at 9:00 am for registration and casual networking so come early! And often! 

 

WHERE:  

  • Worcester Senior Center located at 128 Providence St. Worcester (508-799-1232)  
  • Auburn Public Library at 369 Southbridge St, Auburn  (508) 832-7790)
  • Northampton Senior Center located at 67 Conz Street Northampton (413)587-1228
Did you know: 85% of all jobs are found through NETWORKING!! REALLY!!
Our First Session Topic: Self-Assessment/Transferable Skills:
"What Do I Really Want to Do Now that I'm Grown Up?!" Life After 50+!
 
For more Information and Pre-Registration (required), please feel free to contact:   
The Worcester COA at 508-799-1232.
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!
January 15: Woman in Business: How to Successfully Negotiate Your Worth     
January 17 & 31: Evening of Illumination at OSV 
January 20: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 22: CMS Chamber Annual Meeting
January 25-26: Winterfest at Rapscallion
January 28: Brown Bag: Planning for Healthcare in Retirement 
January 29: Spotlight on Tuscany Information Session 
January 31: Good Acoustics at The Barn at Wight Farm
February 18: Fun at Five at The Sturbridge Host Hotel with The Center of Hope  

Thank you for posting your events to our Events Calendar!

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