Welcome to September & Crossroads News!
We will be networking this month at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center at our September 13th Fun at Five. Please save the date and we will have more details on the event very soon. We recap the Chamber's GOLF CLASSIC, our field trip to Polar Park, introduce our newest Members, and share the latest news and upcoming events from our Members in this issue. The Brimfield Shows return next week. We could still use help from volunteers at our Info Booth at the shows. If you can help out by grabbing a shift, please give us a ring. Enjoy your Labor Day holiday and thank you for Keeping It Local!
CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. Thank you for entering your upcoming offerings on our NEW Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS.
NEXT ISSUE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2022.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
CLOSED ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 AND LABOR DAY MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5.
No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-347-2761 to be sure we are here.
To keep everyone safe, we ask that you kindly wear a mask when visiting. Thank you!
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New Chamber Website!
Members, create your profile on the new Chamber website: www.cmschamber.org. Login to the "members only" Info Hub to create your Account. Click the Member Login button at the top of the home page to get started. Your email address must be in our new system for you to be instantly approved. If it is not, give us a ring or email and we can add your email address from our end.
Once you have joined, you will be able access vital resources, advertise your upcoming events, post any Hot Deals you may be offering, register for Chamber events, post Member 2 Member discounts, pay invoices, even create Job Postings to recruit new employees!
We look forward to your feedback!
If you run into technical issues or questions, don't hesitate to drop us an email or call 508-347-2761.
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GOLF CLASSIC RECAP
What an absolutely perfect day we enjoyed at our GOLF CLASSIC on August 18! Sincere thanks to our Presenting Sponsor Cornerstone Bank, our Corporate Sponsor Southbridge Credit Union, our Corporate and Lunch Sponsor Karl Storz, and our Tee Box Sponsors: Schott North America, Exsel Advertising Group, The Center of Hope, Literacy Volunteers of South Central Mass, ColBro Electrical Services, and ColBro First Aid and Safety Training. We would also like to express our gratitude to our hosts at Heritage Country Club and all who came out to play and support the Chamber's Charities & Scholarships Fund!
(Pictured top left) Mike and Jackson Checkosky are ready to play! (top right) Lunchtime in the clubhouse.
(Pictured lower right) This year's winning foursome, the team from Cornerstone Bank: Mike Bogacz, Patrick Lafluer, Clayton Mount and Tony Fontaine posted a remarkable 14 under par score to take home the trophy as champs of the 2022 GOLF CLASSIC! Congratulations to to this formidable foursome!
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WOW! We Witnessed Woo Sox Walk-off Winner!
How cool was that? The Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce let us borrow their suite at Polar Park on August 17th and we were so pleased to invite our members to join us for a Worcester Red Sox ballgame. If you haven't experienced Polar Park yet, it is a fantastic place to catch a game with a welcoming, engaging atmosphere for fans of all ages. Amazing amenities, tasty food options (including offerings from our friend, B.T.), convenient parking, and it's all brand new! We experienced a brief rain delay but stuck around for a dramatic walk off hit with two outs in the bottom of the ninth which gave the Sox a 2-1 win. Gatorade baths for all!! Thank you, Worcester Chamber!
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FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
508-882-1111
Members get $10 Off on American Heart Association Courses: Heartsaver® CPR/AED, Heartsaver® First Aid, Heartsaver® First Aid/CPR/AED or BLS Provider. AHA Heartsaver® First Aid courses are now module based so you can get the program that meets your needs. Some preset AHA Heartsaver® First Aid programs are Lifesaver, Babysitter, Office and Educator. If you are looking to meet OSHA Guidelines for First Aid in your workplace, the Heartsaver® Total First Aid/CPR/AED program meets that standard. Does your workplace offer child care or day care? Then Heartsaver® Total First Aid/CPR/AED Pediatric is what you need to meet Mass EEC requirements.
Members Only! Hold a CPR class of 5 or more of your employees and get 5% off of a new DEFIBTECH or ZOLL AED.
Click on the M2M logo to view all the M2M deals!
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TLC Home Services Offers Cleaning Support to Cancer Patients
By Lucy Lee
Local Cleaning Company Making a Difference
Sturbridge, MA – August 1, 2022 – TLC Home Services, LLC has partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a nonprofit providing free home cleaning to cancer patients. The company has a history of performing charitable cleanings and now wants to extend their reach to helping cancer patients in the community.
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“My father passed away at the age of 54 with bone cancer and my mom just had breast cancer surgery in mid-July of this year,” said Tammie Chenevert, owner and president of TLC Home Services. “Mom is doing fine, but there are many doctor follow-ups and treatments to endure. I have a big heart for the elderly and cancer patients and I always look for opportunities to lessen the burden by helping with what I know we can do well. With this partnership, we hope to help cancer patients who are recovering from surgery, in active treatment, or in hospice to focus on their health and spending valuable time with loved ones.”
Through partnership with Cleaning for a Reason, TLC Home Services supports two cancer patients’ homes each month for two consecutive months free of charge. This is an ongoing service to patients residing in West Brookfield, North Brookfield, East Brookfield, Brookfield, Warren, Brimfield, Sturbridge, Wales, Holland, Southbridge, Dudley, Webster, Oxford, Charlton, Spencer, Leicester, and Auburn.
About TLC Home Services, LLC
TLC Home Services is a woman-owned company that has been cleaning homes and businesses with 100% satisfaction for the past 15 years. The company serves a variety of homes, offices, AirBnBs, campsites, and other spaces for clients.
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Originally homeschooling her two children, owner Tammie Chenevert was caring for her own home and family. In 2006, when her husband’s health forced him out of a job, Chenevert started cleaning jobs to help provide for her family. She soon realized that in order to keep paying her family’s bills, she would have to expand into a cleaning business. Chenevert met with a financial advisor at Clark University and decided to officially start her cleaning company, TLC Home Services, LLC in 2007. Six months after launching, the recession hit. Chenevert determined that “failure was not an option,” so she threw all her profits into advertising and grew her company while other cleaning companies were going out of business.
Fifteen years later, Chenevert has grown the company on the core values of exceptional customer service, honesty, and respect. Chenevert has always had a heart for giving back and alongside her staff has performed donated cleanings for local churches, retreat sites, and households in need.
“Our core values define who we are as a company,” said Tammie Chenevert. “They have brought us to where we are today and will carry us into the future. We are a small business with a big heart.”
TLC Home Services has earned Best Cleaning Service 2022 and Best Window Cleaning Service 2018. The company is also registered with SAM.gov to work on government jobs. To learn more about this company, go to tlchomeservicesllc.com.
About Cleaning for a Reason
Cleaning for a Reason partners with more than 1,200 residential cleaners throughout the United States and Canada to offer free house cleaning to any household battling cancer. Since 2006, the nonprofit and its partners have donated more than $15.5 million in services, helping more than 46,000 cancer patients. In 2017, Cleaning for a Reason was adopted by ISSA Charities, the charitable arm of ISSA, The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association. To learn more about Cleaning for a Reason and to apply for free house cleaning, see cleaningforareason.org.
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North Brookfield Savings Bank named in Fast 50 by Banker & Tradesman
North Brookfield, MA - North Brookfield Savings Bank has been named in the Banker & Tradesman “Fast 50” for both Commercial and Residential lending, a special recognition given to the Top 50 banks with the fastest loan growth. This includes being named #3 for Commercial Loans and #11 for Commercial Loan Volume.
The Fast 50, compiled from data collected by The Warren Group, publisher of Banker & Tradesman, reveals the 50 fastest growing lenders in Massachusetts. And while larger financial institutions may be originating greater volumes of loans, smaller community banks and credit unions saw some of the greatest year-over-year increases in this year’s list. Community banks benefited greatly where commercial lending was concerned in this year’s Fast 50.
“I could not be prouder of our lending team and their growing success year over year. Customer Service is the hallmark of our lending team’s success and something they do not take lightly," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO Marco Bernasconi. “I, along with my team, are excited for what the future will hold in terms of growth and opportunity, and I am honored we have received this recognition. I am immensely proud to collaborate with this team of professionals every day.”
ABOUT NORTH BROOKFIELD SAVINGS BANK
North Brookfield Savings Bank is a mutual savings bank with full-service branches in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Palmer, and the Three Rivers Village of Palmer. NBSB offers a wide variety of deposit and loan products for individuals and businesses throughout Central and Western Massachusetts and has been a steadfast supporter of the communities it serves since 1854. All deposits are insured by the FDIC and the Depositors Insurance Fund. North Brookfield Savings Bank was voted Best Bank in Central Massachusetts for 2021 and was named “Community Icon” Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation in 2022. For more information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
ABOUT THE WARREN GROUP
Customers use The Warren Group to identify new business opportunities through access to comprehensive real estate and mortgage data, analytics, industry news coverage, networking, and education opportunities. Based in Boston, the company was established in 1872 and is now in its fourth generation of family ownership and management. The Warren Group is the publisher of Banker & Tradesman, The Commercial Record and Registry Review and architect behind some of the leading events and conferences for banking, legal, and real estate professionals in all of New England. For more information visit www.thewarrengroup.com.
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Community of Supporters are Helping to Raise the Roof
for Pets in Need
Second Chance Offers an Update on the Raise the Roof Capital Campaign
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (August 15, 2022) – Second Chance Animal Services announced today that they have received over $65,000 toward the goal of $85,000 to replace three roofs which play a vital role in the journey of homeless pets on their way to a ‘second chance.’ When Second Chance launched the $85,000 capital earlier this year, the goal seemed daunting. Two major supporters generously promised to match the first $15,000 donated, but $85,000 seemed a long way off. But Second Chance supporters care deeply about the animals the nonprofit helps, and donations began to come in.
By the end of May, the challenge match was met. With initial funds secured, work began on the Adoption Center roof as fundraising continued. “This roof sees thousands of animals every year,” said Second Chance CEO and founder Sheryl Blancato. “It was a priority to ensure we are always ready for all the homeless pets that need help.”
But there was still an additional $55,000 needed to replace the roofs and the transport vehicle. The aging high-top transport vehicle was now only reliable for short trips, which meant renting a vehicle for longer journeys. And there was still a third roof over the Almost Home Transport Facility in North Brookfield that needed replacing. Pets that come through transport are brought to this building to spend their first 48 hours for a state-mandated quarantine period. Here animals get a check-up and receive any necessary care in the adjacent hospital.
In June, an amazing thing happened. A group of anonymous supporters came together to offer a match totaling $20,000 to make all three roofs over homeless pets a reality.
Blancato said, “Over the summer, donors have taken advantage of the match to double the impact of their gift. We’ve now raised over $63,000 including the matches that have been activated. We are so incredibly grateful to our community of supporters including Tito's Handmade Vodka and the ASPCA who offered the original match challenge. Each of these gifts is helping homeless pets right here in Massachusetts and pets in crisis across the country.”
Approximately $22,000 remains to replace all three roofs, and $11,000 of that has been pledged to match donations that are received. Anyone interested in making a gift to the Raise the Roof capital campaign can visit secondchanceanimals.org/raisetheroof.
Gifts can also be mailed to Second Chance, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515 with RAISE the ROOF on the memo line to be eligible for the match.
PHOTO: Mack, a one-and-a-half-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog mix, is just one of many pets looking for a home at the Second Chance Adoption Center in East Brookfield.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded in 1999. Second Chance began as an animal shelter and grew to help more pets in need. Today Second Chance operates Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all. Subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities to ensure access to care for all pets in need. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
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Harrington Auxiliary awards scholarships
SOUTHBRIDGE: This past June, the Harrington Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship Committee awarded $15,000 in scholarships to area students planning to pursue a career in healthcare.
The Harrington Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship Committee awarded its first scholarship in 1959. Since that time tuition costs and student needs have increased dramatically, motivating the Harrington Auxiliary to adopt more fundraising endeavors to support more scholarships. Today, the primary scholarship fundraising activities include the Auxiliary’s Annual Lucky Duck and Family Fun Day and the annual Car and Motorcycle Show. Revenue from the Harrington Auxiliary Gift Shop also financially supports the scholarship program.
Students residing in the communities served by the UMass Memorial Harrington Health System were invited to apply for one of the scholarships. The committee received many applications, with at least one student representing several of the communities in the Harrington Hospital service area.
Due to high COVID positivity rates in June, the committee was unable to hold an in-person ceremony. Members of the committee visited each recipient at her home to deliver their certificates and a gift.
The Harrington Auxiliary Scholarship Committee members presented five $3,000 scholarships for a total of $15,000. The recipients included the following students.
Brooke Fettig graduated from Tourtellette Memorial High School and is pursuing a career in radiologic technology at the University of Hartford.
Clare Jetter graduated from Quaboag Regional Middle High School and will be studying nursing at American International College.
Tantasqua Regional High School graduate Emma Lalashius plans to pursue a career in occupational therapy at Western New England University.
Faith Mwangi, graduate of Tantasqua Regional High School, will follow her dream of becoming a physician at George Washington University.
Emilia Pianka will enroll in the physician assistant program at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She is a graduate of Shepherd Hill Regional High School.
The Harrington Auxiliary, established in 1932, is a non-profit organization of dedicated and impassioned volunteers whose mission is to support and enhance the excellent services provided to the 25 communities the UMass Memorial Harrington Health System serves in MA and CT.
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Cornerstone Bank named among most charitable companies in Massachusetts
by the Boston Business Journal
WORCESTER Mass. – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 10 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, has been named as an honoree in the Boston Business Journal’s 2022 Corporate Citizenship Awards, a recognition of the region's top corporate charitable contributors. The Business Journal annually publishes this list to showcase companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities.
“We are honored to have been recognized for our charitable contributions throughout 2021,” said Cornerstone Bank CEO Todd Tallman. “Our giving efforts last year included nearly $400,000 in donations to local organizations such as the YMCA of Central Massachusetts, United Way, Family Health Center of Worcester, Worcester Community Action Council, UMass Memorial, Worcester County Food Bank and others, as well as 16 scholarships to graduating high school seniors.”
This year, only 95 companies qualified for the distinction by reporting at least $100,000 in contributions to Massachusetts-based charities last year. The honorees include companies from such industry sectors as financial and professional services, health care, technology, retail and professional sports.
“The past couple of years has presented companies and communities with many challenges, and their needs have continued to grow,” said Carolyn Jones, Boston Business Journal market president and publisher. “It is with honor that we present our list of the Top Charitable Contributors in Massachusetts. Collectively, they gave $322 million in cash contributions—a true example of the business community coming together to help those in need. We are proud to celebrate these organizations who give both money and time to make the greater Boston area a stronger and better place for all.”
Cornerstone Bank and other honorees will be celebrated at the Boston Business Journal’s 16th Annual Corporate Citizenship Awards on Thursday, September 8 at the Revere Hotel Boston Common.
“Giving back to our community is an important part of our foundation,” continued Tallman. “We take great pride in the help we can offer to our neighbors here in Central Massachusetts, especially when it comes to education and financial literacy. We are on track this year to continue this giving tradition, having already donated nearly $300,000 to local charities and organizations so far.”
About Cornerstone Bank
Cornerstone Bank was formed in 2017, born of a long history of supporting the community, and providing a strong foundation to help people and businesses thrive. Serving Worcester County, Massachusetts, Cornerstone Bank’s local presence and community-based banking model enables a unique ability to deliver outstanding service, with a personal touch. Cornerstone provides the highest level of service and expertise for individuals, businesses, and community organizations with branch locations throughout Central Massachusetts. Cornerstone works to connect customers with opportunities, through a broad range of deposit and loan products, and services. Built on Trust is not just a tagline, but also one of our guiding corporate values. Whether a business or personal partnership, Cornerstone stands on the foundation that relationships are built on trust. To learn about Cornerstone Bank’s personal and business banking offerings, please visit cornerstonebank.com or call 800-939-9103.
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Second Chance Welcomes 20 Beagles from the Envigo Facility in Virginia
Dogs Who Spent Their Entire Lives in Medical Breeding Facility Prepare for their New Lives
NORTH BROOKFIELD, MA (August 24, 2022)— Two by two, the young beagles were carried off a transport vehicle yesterday to a special place called Almost Home. Danielle and Cheyanne, two of Second Chance Animal Services’ Almost Home team members, spoke to them in reassuring voices. They made each one comfortable in the nonprofit’s transport facility where they will be prepared for new lives that they can’t even imagine.
Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato, who made the trip with Danielle to pick up the beagles from the Humane Society of the United States’ care facility in Maryland, said she was struck by the enormity of the rescue as she spied the tattoo on one of the beagles ears. “They’ve lived their entire lives inside a facility, known only by the tattoo on their ears,” said Blancato. “Soon they’ll have names, they’ll learn the feeling of their paws on grass, and they’ll have a place to call home filled with people who love them.”
Today each of the beagles got a name, with each pair sharing a first letter, like Harper and Hadley, and Jukebox and Jive. The beagles will complete a state-mandated 48-hour quarantine at Almost Home and receive all medical care to be ready for adoption. This includes any vaccines, a microchip and many other things including spay or neuter surgery for each of the dogs.
Blancato notes, “All of the dogs are between the ages of four and seven months and appear healthy. They were very quiet on the ride, but everything is new to them. I can’t wait to see them learn to play and just be dogs.”
The Humane Society of the United States is coordinating the removal of approximately 4,000 beagles housed at an Envigo RMS LLC facility in Cumberland, VA which bred dogs to be sold to laboratories for animal experimentation. The transfer plan was submitted by the Department of Justice and Envigo RMS LLC, with the agreement of the Humane Society of the United States to assume the responsibility of coordinating placement. The transfer will take place in stages over approximately 60 days, and the dogs will be up for adoption via Second Chance and other shelters and rescues.
The transfer plan comes as a result of a lawsuit filed against Envigo by the Department of Justice in May, alleging Animal Welfare Act violations at the facility. Repeated federal inspections have resulted in dozens of violations, including findings that some dogs had been “euthanized” without first receiving anesthesia, that dogs had received inadequate veterinary care and insufficient food, and that they were living in unsanitary conditions.
Blancato said interested adopters can fill out an adoption survey or watch the Second Chance website to see when they are available for adoption. For more information about the beagles that Second Chance is finding homes for or to make a donation for their medical care as they are prepared for adoption, visit secondchanceanimals.org.
PHOTO: Cheyanne (L) and Danielle (R) welcome two of the beagles to Almost Home.
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Walker Scouting Memorial Carillon Project Meets Fundraising Goal
North Brookfield, MA – The campaign to restore the carillon chimes to the Walker Scouting Memorial at Walnut Grove Cemetery in North Brookfield has met and exceeded its fundraising goal, according to campaign chair, Joe Klimavich.
The campaign to install new carillon chimes was announced at the annual Scouting Memorial Service at the beginning of June. “It’s been an amazing two months since the start of the campaign,” Klimavich said. “The generous outpouring of support from the Scouting community, the local business community, area service organizations, and the community at large has been simply outstanding. There’s no other word for it.”
According to Klimavich, the new system has been ordered and is being assembled by Bells of America, an Oklahoma City multi-media company that specializes in a variety of carillon applications. Installation will be scheduled as soon as the equipment arrives and the committee is planning an early fall ribbon-cutting event and demonstration. Once the project is completed, it will be turned over to the Town along with any remaining funds, which will be designated for perpetual care.
The project involves repairing electrical service to Walker Memorial Garden, installation of an industrial amplifier in a vapor-controlled stainless steel container, housing new speakers in the carillon tower, an infrared beam interface that will activate the music when someone crosses its path, and a night-time automatic disconnect timer. The system includes programmable Westminster chimes with over one hundred liturgical and seasonal hymns and bugle taps.
“The infrared beam interface was actually a bonus of working with Bells of America,” said Klimavich. “It was our good fortune that the company we chose made the acquaintance of two Disney engineers who designed the exact interface we need to activate the chimes in the same way they worked in the original installation.”
At the request of cemetery commissioners, the project also includes the addition of overnight lighting on the flagpole at the center of the memorial that will allow the flag to fly around the clock as weather permits.
The fundraising campaign was bolstered in July by a $2500 matching gift challenge from Tasse-Crowley Oil & Propane in honor of Crowley Fuel’s Bob LaFlamme, who is retiring this year after 34 years of dedicated service to the 102-year-old home heating business and LaFlamme’s lifetime of service to the Scouting.
Walker Memorial Garden was designed and constructed by Norman Walker to honor the memory of his son, Ronald. Because both father and son shared a love for Scouting and because Scouting had brought them so close to one another, the idea for a “Living Memorial to Scouting” was born. It was dedicated on Memorial Day, May 25, 1970, and for the past 52 years, Scouts from around central Massachusetts have gathered there on the Saturday after Memorial Day to honor Scouters who died during the previous twelve months.
“The original memorial included a beautiful set of carillon chimes that were set into motion every time a visitor passed into the Memorial Garden,” explained Klimavich. “Sadly, weather and time took their toll on the carillon and the chimes have been silent for many years. Based on the many comments and messages from donors, we know just how important they were to this installation and how much they have been missed by area residents.”
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Cornerstone Bank pledges $20,000 to Quinsigamond Community College Foundation
Donation helps ensure accessible, affordable, and high-quality learning opportunities
WORCESTER, Mass. – Cornerstone Bank has pledged $20,000 to the Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) Foundation Inc. to continue and enhance its higher education offerings to Southbridge and surrounding communities. Cornerstone will donate $5,000 per year for four years, beginning in 2022.
“Since opening its Southbridge location in 2010, Quinsigamond has been the only brick-and-mortar higher education option in that town,” said Cornerstone Bank CEO Todd Tallman. “A significant poverty rate in Southbridge and limited mass transit services present significant barriers to residents seeking higher education. We are proud to help support the foundation’s efforts to ensure accessible and affordable educational opportunities to this community.”
QCC is a public higher education institution in Central Massachusetts providing postsecondary education and training to almost 8,000 students per year at its Worcester and Southbridge locations, regional satellites, and online. QCC students represent the communities they live and work in from first-generation, low-income college students, and racial and ethnic minorities, to full-time workers, non-native English speakers, parents, adult learners and traditional age college students.
QCC Southbridge provides general education courses and some lab courses towards an associate degree or certificate and/or transfer to a bachelor’s degree at a state college or university. In addition, QCC Southbridge offers pre-college programming for high
school students in-person and remotely. Day, evening, and weekend classes have been available since September 2020 from the college’s location at Southbridge High School, giving students access to add non-credit workforce development coursework. Student support services are also provided, including advising, tutoring, accessibility, and career placement services.
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The #1 Hispanic Newspaper in MA
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email [email protected] to get started.
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Learning & Networking Opportunities
You'll also find webinars, online workshops and courses from Worcester Chamber, SCORE and MSBDC. Most are FREE! Got something going on? Please add your happenings, online or in-person, indoors or out, to our calendar or email Jack the pertinent info and we will share in the next CROSSROADS!
WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Breakfast Club at the AC Hotel Worcester
Thursday Sep 8, 2022, 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM, AC Hotel Worcester, 125 Front Street, Worcester, MA
$40 - Members, $60 - Non Members, $375 - Table of 10
Please join the Chamber along with other business professionals as we salute area businesses with a networking breakfast and Key Note Speaker. Key Note Speaker: Consul General Peter Abbott, British Consulate-General Boston. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Construction & Real Estate Roundtable: Real Estate Tax Credits
Thursday Sep 15, 2022, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, Worcester Chamber office, FREE for Chamber Members
Please join the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce in welcoming Bob Dorfman of Dorfman Capital and Michael O'Mara of Ozone Capital Markets to our Q3 Construction & Real Estate Roundtable! LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Business After Hours MEGA w/ Corridor 9/495 Chamber
Wednesday Sep 21, 2022, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, 284 E Temple Street, Boylston, MA
Chamber Members: $20, Non-Chamber Members: $50.
Business After Hours is an opportunity for you to network with other Chamber members and guests. Meet new contacts, develop new leads, and exchange ideas. Join us and dozens of area professionals for a fun, informal networking event! This event is hosted with the Corridor 9 / 495 Regional Chamber of Commerce. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
FREE ONLINE BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY SCORE
SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Since 1964, SCORE has provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs. Check out these upcoming FREE live webinars.
Business Planning The Simpler Way
Sept 7 | 12 pm
This workshop will explore a simplified means of business and strategic planning through the use of Business Model Canvas. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Statistical Analysis Using Microsoft Excel
Sept 13 | 10 am
Understanding numbers takes more than sums and differences, you need to identify trends, and finding them is the province of statistics. Fortunately, Excel has a robust suite of statistical tools that can help you do this. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Leadership and Creativity
Sept 13 | 12 pm
The best ideas and the most impact always come from the intersection of leadership and creativity. Accessing both sides of our brains, connecting and integrating new ways of thinking and activating them into useful methods. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Multiply Your Small Business Success with Public Speaking
Sept 14 | 12 pm
How to leverage public speaking to get in front of your ideal clients & win them over once you’re on stage (virtual or in-person). Hint: The first sale is to yourself! LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Starting Your Business
Sept 15 | 9:30 am
Starting a small business requires more knowledge, skills, perseverance and planning than meets the eye. Save valuable time and money starting here! This 2-hour workshop will help you clearly understand the details, challenges, opportunities and rewards. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Finance Essentials For Small Business.
Sponsored by SCORE Boston and East Cambridge Savings Bank
Get all your questions answered about the finances of your business. From Cash Flow to Financing options. Learn from the experts. Our Free series is just what you need to assure your success.
Understanding Financial Ratios: Sept 8 | 12 pm REGISTER
Importance of Cash Flow: Sept 22 | 12 pm REGISTER
Financing a Business: Oct 6 | 12 pm REGISTER
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Sept 6 Federal Marketing & Outreach
Sept 14 Your First Business Loan
Sept 12 Basics of Starting Your Business
Sept 20 Massachusetts Health Connector: Affordable, Flexible Health Coverage for Small Business
Sept 21 Commonwealth of MA (State) Government Contracting
Sept 22 Basics of Starting Your Business
Sept 22 STEP Program Application Process
Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these sessions and more.
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CLICK THE GRAPHIC TO FIND MORE INFO ON FACEBOOK |
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September Programming at Hitchcock Academy
Hitchcock Academy is a community center located at 2 Brookfield Road in Brimfield serving the community with educational, recreational, and cultural programming. More information can be found at www.hitchcockacademy.org.
UPBEAT BARRE: UpBeat Barre combines moves from ballet, Pilates, yoga and muscular endurance based strength training to provide a low-impatc, mind, body and high-energy program. UpBeat classes will tone, tighten and lengthen muscles, provide strength in everyday movement and bring confidence, coordination and an UpBeat attitude after every class. This barre class is all about music. The moves are choreographed to fun UpBeat music which is how this class differs from other Barre classes. Mondays, 6 – 7pm, Sept 12 to Oct 17. $75
HIGH FITNESS: The combination of aerobic and anaerobic training, complemented by active recovery tracks, makes this class an extremely effective and efficient form of training. Alternating bouts of high-intensity movement with moderate/active recovery means you avoid plateaus, and constantly challenge your body in a safe and effective way that works for YOU. HIGH Fitness is a ZERO equipment, full body workout that has been shown to improve overall endurance, stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health. More importantly, it yields extremely important mental health benefits. Beyond the workout, HIGH Fitness brings fun, fabulous music, and a community like no other – connection, support, and inclusion reap their own benefits on both the mind and body! Tuesdays 7 - 8pm, Sept 6 to Oct 11. $75.
OUTDOOR YOGA: Breathe in the beauty of nature as we practice Yoga outside together, enhancing mindfulness, strength, flexibility, balance and well-being. Everyone (14 and up) is welcome in this all-levels class, no matter whether you have Yoga experience. Thursdays, 4 - 5pm. Sept 15 to Oct 13. $40. All proceeds to benefit Hitchcock.
CLOSING THE GARDEN: While the end of the season can be depressing, it's also the best time to get a jump start on the following year. We'll explore pruning, seed saving, mulching, and composting. Tuesday, Sept 20, 6 – 7:30pm. $20.
FENCING: Fencing is a sport of combat that originally started as practice for dueling with swords. Since that time, it has grown into a modern sport while maintaining those virtues that made it great: honor, valor, and grace. Bring a water bottle, sneakers & comfortable clothing. Class will be held outside, weather permitting and indoors in inclement weather. Thursdays, 6:15 - 7:15pm, Sept 22 to Nov 10. $105.
JUDO: Judo, the gentle way, is an Olympic sport, intended to train the body and mind. It involves using holds and leverage to unbalance the opponent. DEVELOP - discipline - confidence - teamwork - fitness and have fun practicing martial arts with the Sen-I-Judo Club. All Ages Wednesdays & Fridays in September 4:30 to 6pm. Adults Only. Mondays & Fridays in September. 6 - 7:30pm. $75 per month plus $75 annual enrollment fee.
2ND ANNUAL FORE A GREAT CAUSE GOLF TOURNAMENT: Price is $120/player with the option to sign up as a foursome or individual. Registration fee includes entry to the golf tournament, cart, steak dinner, contests, prizes, and snacks. Scramble format. Sunday, Sept 25, 1pm, Heritage Country Club, Charlton.
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Joshua Hyde Public Library
Calendar of Events September 1-15
Sturbridge, September 2022– There are plenty of fun, free events planned at the Joshua Hyde Public Library for the month of September. As always, our events and links can be found on the library website at www.sturbridgelibrary.org. For more information, updates, links, and events, you can also call the Library directly at 508-347-2512, and/or follow the Library on Facebook and Instagram at @sturbridgelibrary.
JHPL September 1-15 Events:
Thursday, September 8: ELF (Early Learning & Fun!) @ 10:45 AM. A brief book-in-hand program features stories, songs, and rhymes and is followed by playtime! For ages 9-18 months with caregiver. Pre-register, please.
Friday, September 9: Library closed until 1:00 PM due to staff training.
Friday, September 9: FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY MEETING @ 3:00 PM
Tuesday, September 13: DROP IN STORY TIME @ 10:45 AM. Join us for stories, songs, craft & more! For children of all ages with caregiver. Drop-in. Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL.
Tuesday, September 13: AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP: These Precious Days by Ann Pachett @ 1:00 PM
Wednesday, September 14: GUIDED MEDITATION with Sylvia Murphy @ 6:15 PM
These guided meditations for relaxation and healing are intended to assist you in releasing your stress and anxiety. By relaxing the body and the mind you can improve your overall sense of well-being. **Open to all - Free for patients, survivors, and caregivers attending with a patient. PinkHippy.org is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization.
Thursday, September 15: LEGO Club @ 6:30 PM Suitable for ages 5-12 years with caregiver. Pre-register, please.
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September 3: Muster Day at 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 musket and cannon firing 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.
- Join a group of ladies for “Ardent Spirits” as they discuss their concerns about temperance, how alcohol affects them and their families, and if starting a Ladies Temperance Society in Sturbridge is a good idea.
September 10-11: CRAFT WEEKEND at OSV See more
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One more time in 2022! Heads up for the September shows!
Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Shows
September 6, 2022 to September 11, 2022
Route 20, Brimfield
Can you help out at the Chamber's Brimfield Info Booth?
We could use help on the 2-5pm shifts and the Saturday shifts.
Please give us ring if you would like to volunteer for a few hours.
Thank you!
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Teen Suicide Awareness Charity Dance-a-thon
Friday, September 9, 2022, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Dance the night away for a very important cause! Suicide has hit so many families and sadly the suicide rate is the highest in teens and young adults. According to UCLA Health Connect, nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide with 9% of them attempting to take their lives. It is the second-leading cause of death among people ages 15-24.
We invite all to join us in a Dance-a-thon with all proceeds given to the charity Samaritans. Samaritans provides lifesaving suicide prevention services throughout Greater Boston, MetroWest, and across Massachusetts. Their services are free, confidential, and nonjudgmental.
Come join us to help create awareness and show these young people that they all have so much to live for! This is not a dance competition, but a fun freestyle dance for any age teen to adults! If you want to dance you can get sponsored for an amount for every song you are able to dance to. Spectators are also welcome to join and support the cause!
We will have raffles, music by DJ Mendez, and BT’s Smokehouse Food Truck to keep you energized!
To see event details on Facebook, click the flyer.
COST: $20 for spectators and dancers, get your sponsors! Tickets can be purchased at the door with cash.
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3rd Annual Lamoureux Ford Antique/Muscle Car Show
Saturday, September 10, 9 AM – 3 PM
366 E Main St, East Brookfield, MA
Join Lamoureux Ford for the 3rd Annual Antique/Muscle Car Show on Saturday September 10th.
Appearances by: NASCAR Wood Brothers Racing #21 Ford Mustang, South 9 Wangz & Thangz Food Truck and Music. This is a Rain or Shine Event. Car Show Entry is FREE (no clubs or groups).
Car Show Awards will be awarded at 1:30.
Food truck and Race Car available until 3pm.
Contact Derek Bachand at Lamoureux Ford (508-885-1000) with any questions
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Harvest Craft Fair
Brookfield Orchards
Saturday & Sunday, September 10-11
Every year this event gets better and better!
We love to see all the local artisans and crafters come together to make this craft fair awesome! This year we expect a lot of new crafters to join our Craft Fair. Only handmade items are accepted into this fair. We are limiting the amount of each craft for this fair and also the number of spots available are limited. We are excited to host this great Craft Fair!
If you are interested in being in our Craft Fair please give us a call at 508-867-6858!
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September Networking & Open House at Rapscallion
Wednesday, September 14, 2022, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Join Woman in Business for our first networking event of the fall at Rapscallion Pub in Sturbridge on September 14th at 5:30.
Food will be provided.
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Southbridge AutumnFest
SEPTEMBER 17, 2022
Southbridge Town Common (next to Police Station)
Mechanic Street, Southbridge
10AM-5PM | Rain or Shine
ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN FOR ALL AGES!
Crafters, Artisans and Food Vendors
BEER and Wine TENT
LIVE Music
Harrington Hospital Auxiliary “Duck Pluck” (See below for more info)
ADMISSION: FREE!
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Duck Season is Officially Open and The Harrington Hospital Auxiliary
30th Annual Lucky Duck & Family Fun Day is just around the corner!
<- Please click the DUCK to learn more about this popular event, Lucky Ducks!
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Southbridge Credit Union's Tour Opacum
Sunday, September 25, 2022
Co-hosted by Rapscallion Brewery at Brimfield Winery
Join Opacum Land Trust on September 25th, 2022 for this spectacular scenic bike ride through several of our conservation properties in Brimfield, Sturbridge, Monson, and surrounding towns. Don’t miss Rapscallion Brewery’s after-party at Brimfield Winery complete with wine, craft beer, live music, games, and more! You’re going to have a great day while supporting a great cause - proceeds from the ride will help Opacum Land Trust protect critical land, water, and wildlife, and provide outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.
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SUMMER HOURS:
Thursday: 4-8, Friday: 4-8, Saturday: 4-8, Sunday: Noon-5
We are currently looking to fill Server, Bartender, Bussers & Dishwasher positions.
508-867-2345
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Looking for more local events? Check out our Facebook Events page for even more from our neighbors and friends! Click here to visit!
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Executive Committee
Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope
Cynthia Saucier, 1st Vice Chair
Country Bank
Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
Board of Directors
Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group
Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank
Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union
Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp
Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
Dan Friel
Old Sturbridge Village
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Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
Christina Hadis-Blackwell
The Center of Hope
Tom Henry
North Brookfield Savings Bank
Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital
Anthony Marini
BankHometown
Trevor Nielsen
Edward Jones
Rita Schiano
Live a Flourishing Life
Rich Suitum
Exsel Advertising Group
Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Company
James Donahue
Old Sturbridge Village
Honorary Board Member
Counsel
Padgett Berthiaume
Berthiaume & Berthiaume
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46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
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Alexandra McNitt
Executive Director
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Jack Starkey
Communications & Media
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