Welcome to Crossroads Events!
We hope 2022 is off to a productive start for you! We’ve got the latest news from our Members plus some very chill winter events awaiting you in this issue. ENJOY! Central Mass South, the 2022 Chamber Directory & Regional Guide, has arrived from the printers. You can view the digital version in the article below and request hard copies to be delivered to your location. We also recap last week’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and share interesting news items from our Members and friends in this issue of CROSSROADS.
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 Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS.
NEXT ISSUE: FEBRUARY 1, 2022.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
CLOSED on Monday, January 17 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-247-2761 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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NETWORKING UPDATE
In light of increasing cases of the Covid-19 Omicron variant, we will not hold any networking events in January 2022.
We expect the number of cases to go down by mid-January and we will be back in late February for Fun at Five.
Thank you for understanding and stay tuned for details!
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SAVE THE DATE FOR FEBRUARY NETWORKING! 2.22.22
FUN AT FIVE ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 5:00-7:00PM
STURBRIDGE PORTERHOUSE
407 Main Street (Route 20), Sturbridge MA 01566, 508-347-2700
MORE DETAILS COMING SOON!
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Ribbon Recap! Premier Exteriors and Design
The Chamber of Central Mass South presented a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Opening at Premier Exteriors and Design on Wednesday, January 5th, 2022 at 500 Main Street, Sturbridge (Fiskdale). Premier Exteriors and Design offers services including metal & asphalt roofing, vinyl siding, energy efficient windows and doors, gutters and gutter protection, custom decks, fences and hardscaping options. Premier Exteriors and Design opened for business at their Sturbridge location in September of 2021.
“We are excited to become members of such a great community,” said Rob Germain, Event Marketing Manager at Premier Exteriors & Design. “We would love to learn who you are and show you how we can help you save money today and live better tomorrow.”
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Enjoy! Central Mass South 2022
The Chamber's Directory & Regional Guide is hot off the presses.
The guide is a comprehensive Member directory designed to help residents and visitors navigate our area's resources. We will be distributing copies to our local town halls and libraries this month.
Would you like some copies to distribute to the public at your place of business?
Just drop an email to Alix and we will bring copies to you at your convenience! Thank you!
You may view the PDF of the guide by clicking on the cover image.
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Welcome, New Members!
The Chamber of Central Mass South is very pleased to welcome our newest regional partner members through our affiliation with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Apple, Computer Software/Hardware Sales & Service, 700 K Street, 7th floor, Washington, D.C.
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Would you be interested in serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors?
We are currently accepting letters of interest from Members in good standing who would be interested in serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors.
Service on the Board is typically a 3-year term. We currently have two vacancies. These openings are renewable in future terms. This is an excellent opportunity for Members to build leadership skills in their employees.
The Chamber's Board of Directors is responsible for the Chamber's governance, ensuring its financial stability, setting policies, and assisting the Chamber in carrying out its mission and objectives.
Board members must regularly attend and actively participate in scheduled Board meetings, hold a seat on at least one Chamber committee, demonstrate public support for the Chamber, volunteer and assist in recruiting new Members, act as ambassadors and advocates, and lend their expertise in support of the Chamber's mission and objectives.
If you would like to serve, please send a letter of interest to Alix.
Mailing Address:
Alexandra McNitt
Chamber of Central Mass South
46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Feel free to call if you have further questions. 508-347-2761.
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Be Visible, Stay Visible:
2022 Marketing For Members Only Packages
The Chamber's Marketing For Members Only packages for 2022 are available to be reserved!
These packages include low cost advertising opportunities using all the Chamber's channels.
Crossroads NEWS and EVENTS ads
Chamber Website banner ads
Dedicated Email blasts
Featured Member Spotlight in the Chamber Corner of Southbridge News
Whether you need a comprehensive package or a few dedicated E-blasts throughout the year,
the Chamber's Marketing For Members Only program enhances and amplifies your message and offerings.
Check out the 2022 M4M packages and individual marketing items by visiting the link below.
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Get Great Exposure for Your Business!
Sponsor an upcoming Chamber event
Our Promotions Committee is hard at work planning the schedule of Chamber happenings including FUN at FIVE networking events and the Chamber's Annual Meeting. We are actively seeking businesses that would be interested in sponsoring these events.
Our FUN at FIVE sponsors are given positive exposure and an enthusiastic crowd that is eager to share the good word about your business with their friends, neighbors and business contacts! The Annual Meeting is expected to draw around 100 Chamber Members and the public and features a keynote speaker of local interest and a sit-down breakfast or lunch.
If your company would be interested in being a sponsor for these upcoming events, or would like more information about sponsorship, please contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or email alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org.
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We Welcome Interesting Goodies for our Welcome Baskets!
The Chamber has teamed up with the Center of Hope to create gift baskets to welcome new members to the Chamber of Central Mass South. The Chamber presents our new members with gift baskets that will not only have a monetary value but also to give the recipient an opportunity to learn more about other Chamber members and their services. These baskets make a terrific first impression and are a great way to introduce your business to new prospects. Can you help us fill these baskets with interesting goodies?
We are always seeking interesting, practical items to include in our welcome baskets. We welcome your contributions of items like modest gift certificates, discount coupons, items with your company's logo like piggy banks, thumb drives and coffee mugs, free trial items, small items your company manufactures or whatever else might promote your company and be a value to our new members.
We are looking to assemble about a dozen baskets at a time so that time sensitive material will not be out of date when received. If you would like to donate items for this program, please drop them off at the Chamber office or give us a call to arrange pick up your donated items. Contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or e-mail alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org if you have any questions or to arrange a pickup. Thank you for your contributions!
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NEW MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
508-579-6314
CMS Chamber Members, set up a free consultation and receive a 10% off coupon code for any Zoom hypnosis program. Weight loss/weight management, Stop smoking, Stress and anxiety, and much more. (See details below.)
Click on the M2M logo to see this and many more great offers from Members... for Members!
Want to offer your fellow Members a discount in 2022?
Give us a ring and we'll get you set up in a jiffy!
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Can you imagine doing hypnosis in the convenience of your own home?
Set up your free 30-minute consultation
Are you curious of the possibilities of what blocks and self-sabotaging behavior and beliefs you can let go of?
- Weight loss/weight management
- Stop smoking
- Stress and anxiety
- and much more
Why Zoom sessions are so successful:
- You can relax in your own home.
- Let go of worries of weather conditions and the virus that is going around.
- Easily accessible and effective way to achieve your goals.
Are you ready to make the changes to have your best 2022?
CMS Chamber Members, Use your M2M Discount,
Sign up for a free 30-minute consultation and receive a 10% off coupon code for any Zoom hypnosis program.
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511 Main Street, Sturbridge, 508-579-6314
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APPLY TODAY! 2022 CMS Chamber Scholarships
Deadline for Applications is April 1.
The Chamber of Central Mass South typically awards three $1000 scholarships and makes charitable contributions on behalf of the business community to roughly a dozen local non-profits each year. Scholarships are disbursed directly to the student upon presentation of grades from their 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 more 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, 2022 to:
Scholarship Committee
Chamber of Central Mass South
46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA, 01566
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Cornerstone Bank donates $50,000 to Worcester County charitable organizations
Donations include $40,000 to Worcester Community Action Council and $10,000 to Worcester County Food Bank
WORCESTER, Mass. – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, has donated $50,000 to two Worcester County nonprofit organizations: $40,000 to the Worcester Community Action Council and $10,000 to the Worcester County Food Bank. The two groups are dedicated to improving quality of life by ending poverty and food insecurity throughout the region, respectively.
“Both of these organizations share our deep commitment to the wellbeing of residents throughout Central Massachusetts, which is why we are supporting them with these significant donations,” said Cornerstone Bank CEO Todd Tallman. “They are each providing the underserved residents of Worcester County with the essentials they need to survive and succeed during a difficult time.”
The Worcester Community Action Council is one of 23 community action agencies in Massachusetts with the mission of helping people toward economic self-sufficiency through programs, partnerships and advocacy. To break the cycle of poverty for tens of thousands of people annually, WCAC helps to provide opportunities for energy assistance, early education and care, financial empowerment, positive youth development, and career pathways.
The Worcester County Foodbank is dedicated to engaging and educating the region in creating a hunger-free community through partnerships with donors and volunteers, as well as business and community leaders. Last year, their network of 115 local pantries and programs helped to distribute nearly 6.1 million pounds of donated food to 75,000 people across 60 Worcester County communities.
“As a community bank, we live and work in Central Massachusetts, which is why we are committed to supporting these causes that improve the quality of life for those around us,” continued Tallman. “We are honored to work alongside both these charitable organizations and look forward to the good that will come from these donations.”
To learn more about Cornerstone Bank and their charitable work, please visit cornerstonebank.com.
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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You achieved the 25-25 Challenge!
Together, we are protecting land, water, and wildlife for current and future generations.
Opacum Board of Directors stepped forward and pledged to match $25,000 of donations made to Opacum in the "25-25 Challenge!" last month.
With your help and support, we have reached the $50,000 goal to scale up land conservation work where you live. We are beyond grateful for meeting and, yes, EXCEEDING our year-end goals for 2021.
Thank you! You are part of conserving land in our local area for water, wildlife, and future generations.
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The numbers are in...
The Opacum Board of Directors matched $25,550 of gifts that members and donors like you contributed. Above our original $50,000 goal!
We are so humbled and grateful for all of your generosity, and a bright start to continue to protect land in our local area in 2022, thanks to YOU.
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Hitchcock Academy Hosts It All: Warrior Yoga to Calligraphy,
Fencing to Cake Decorating, Judo to Dog Training
Movement, Music Making, and More to Ward Off the
Winter Doldrums for All Ages and Interests
Brimfield, MA – Find out if the pen is mightier than the sword, or if the yogi is as mighty a warrior as a fencer as you try out Calligraphy, Warrior Yoga, or Fencing this winter, and celebrate your victories with a slice of gorgeously decorated chocolate cake. Hitchcock Academy, a community center in Brimfield, is rolling out a cavalcade of classes for all ages and interests, including several new and unique offerings.
The center’s longtime Pilates instructor Karen Larsen is teaming up with Fencing instructor Andrew Bloch to offer a new Warrior Yoga class in February. Warrior Yoga is an adventurous style of yoga for the advanced-beginner that incorporates a blend of slightly more intense Yoga poses mixed with some Martial Arts forms. This more athletic style of Yoga will take participants through poses of power and strength with the transitions of flow. It will be offered on Thursdays from 5:15 to 6:15pm starting February 3rd.
Fencing will also continue with its next session beginning on January 13th, and Pilates’ next session starts on February 2nd.
On January 20th, armed with felt tipped pens and paper, participants will be guided by Christine Ohristo in an introduction to the age-old craft of Calligraphy. The two hour evening workshop will present the opportunity for each student, after demonstration and instruction, to create a card or poem of their own calligraphy artwork, and perhaps for a new hobby to carry forth.
For those looking to master a new instrument, Guitar is offered monthly in four weekly Wednesday sessions by Reese Crosby.
The center’s longtime Martial Arts Club run by Israel Lopez is offering a steal in January for those interested in trying the sport. While an annual membership fee still applies, tuition is waived for the month for all students, existing and new. That’s a dozen opportunities to try a sport that promises to increase your balance, strength, and confidence. Judo is offered to both an All Ages group on Wednesdays and Fridays 4:30 to 6pm and an Adults group Mondays and Fridays 6 to 7:30pm.
For the pups in the family, Laurie Merritt continues her popular series of Dog Training classes on January 19th, and those interested in K9 NoseWork can look forward to another session coming soon.
Let’s Cake Decorate continues its series of playful decorating workshops with a For The Love of Chocolate & Roses cake on Sunday, February 13th, the eve of Valentine’s Day, for anyone looking to treat themselves or someone special to a sweet confection for the holiday.
Yoga will be offered online for the session that is underway, but a new session anticipated to resume as an in-person class will begin on March 7th.
“That’s ten invitations to enrich your winter,” says Executive Director Cindy Skowrya. “We look forward to welcoming friends new and old, young and young at heart, human or canine. All are welcome, and we’ve got something for everyone.”
For more information or to register, visit www.hitchcockacademy.org. Hitchcock Academy is a community center enriching lives through educational, recreational and cultural programs for all ages and serving Brimfield, Sturbridge, Holland, Wales, The Brookfields, and beyond. Hitchcock is located at 2 Brookfield Road in Brimfield.
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Second Chance Surprised by Outpouring of Donations in Honor of Betty White
Nonprofit to Use 100% of #BettyWhiteChallenge to Help
Low-Income Senior Pet Owners
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (January 10, 2022) – Second Chance was closed for the holiday when the much-loved actress Betty White passed away, just weeks shy of her 100th birthday. Those passionate about animal welfare privately mourned the loss of a powerful advocate for animal rights. Quietly at first, a movement began to honor her legacy of love for animals of all kinds. Soon the #BettyWhiteChallenge was born, encouraging lovers of animals and lovers of Betty White to donate to an animal shelter in honor of what would have been her 100th birthday – January 17, 2022. Donations began to pour into shelters across the country including Second Chance Animal Services.
Second Chance Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray was off for the New Year when she got an alert that a donation was made in Betty White’s name. “I was touched. She’s been a great inspiration to many of us at Second Chance and I thought it was a beautiful way to honor her legacy.” Doray said that as more gifts came in, she started to think about just how White would want these gifts to be used.
“We have a very special program called Homebound to the Rescue that brings veterinary services directly to low-income senior communities at no cost. The program was founded when we learned that many seniors on fixed incomes had to choose between caring for their pet and putting food on their table. We knew we had to find a way to help so these seniors could keep their beloved pet who may be their sole daily companion.”
According to Doray, the program is made possible in part by a grant from the Banfield Foundation and is entirely funded by grants and donations. “We know the need is great this year. Covid has made it so much more difficult for many seniors to get care for their pets. These gifts mean that we can help more seniors.”
Anyone wishing to make a gift in White’s honor can donate directly to the challenge on Second Chance’s Facebook page, online at secondchanceanimals.org/donate/ or you can mail a check to Betty White Challenge, Second Chance Animal Services, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515.
PHOTO: Meatball poses for a photo during his Homebound to the Rescue visit to Second Chance's mobile veterinary clinic.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance is a nonprofit 501c3 tax exempt organization that began in 1999 in East Brookfield and relies solely on donations from grants to operate. The organization operates an adoption center in East Brookfield and Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through adoption, spay/neuter, veterinary care, community outreach, educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
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Cornerstone Bank recognizes 24 employees for dedicated service
Worcester, MA – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, has presented Years of Service Awards to 24 employees who have hit landmarks in their tenure. Employees are honored for every five years of service with the Bank.
“The dedication of these 24 employees is inspiring,” said CEO of Cornerstone Bank Todd Tallman. “We work to foster a culture of growth and development within our institution, and it is a true testament when we see the longevity of some of our team members. I congratulate them for their years— and some for their decades—of loyalty and commitment to our customers.”
The following employees received the Years of Service Award:
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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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Country Bank Promotes Jessica McGarry to First Vice President, Commercial Lending Lead
January 10, 2021 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving central and western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce that Jessica McGarry has been promoted to First Vice President, Team Lead for its Commercial Lending Division in the East. McGarry, who joined Country Bank in 2017, resides in Sutton and has over 20 years of experience in the financial services focused on commercial lending.
Jessica earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Nichols College, was a recipient of the Forty Under 40 designation in 2014 from Worcester Business Journal, and was a member of Leadership Worcester, Class of 2015-2016.
“I look forward to leading the Commercial Lending Division in Worcester as Country Bank continues to provide high quality business financing in Central MA. Our team is knowledgeable and dedicated, with deep connections that will continue to drive growth in the region. Strategic and hard-working individuals, coupled with dynamic lending solutions and a responsive approval process will position our team to capitalize on large and small opportunities as we move into 2022 and beyond.”
"We are excited to promote Jessica to the First Vice President in the Commercial Lending Division for the East. Jessica’s extensive background working with commercial customers, financing strategies, and, in the process, building long-term partnerships in the east has been a part of Country’s success in the Worcester market. These partnerships define Country Bank, and Jessica’s leadership exemplifies our iSTEP Corporate Values of Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence, and Prosperity," stated Tom Wolcott, First Senior Vice President and Commercial Lending.
Jessica is based in the Worcester Business Banking Center at 315 Main Street and may be reached at jmcgarry@countrybank.com or at 508-762-0272.
About Country Bank
Country Bank is a full-service mutual community bank serving central and western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton, Springfield and Worcester. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at countrybank.com.
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Apply for Town of Charlton Business & Non-Profit Assistance Grants
We wanted to share with you the grants available through the Town of Charlton for businesses and non- profits. These are also available for businesses looking to move into Charlton. Thanks to Sabrina Webb of Cornerstone Bank for passing along this information!
Find more info and the grant application at these links:
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Second Chance Sets Goal to Help a Record Breaking 45,000 Pets in 2022
Nonprofit Makes Plans to Help Pets Get Up to Date
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (January 13, 2022) – The past two years have been hard on everyone, including pets. While your newsfeed may have been filled with the playful escapades of quarantine puppies or kittens welcomed into families, a serious health situation was brewing for pets. Day after day, more and more pets began to fall behind on basic vaccines and routine care as Covid made it challenging for pets to be seen by their veterinarian. Second Chance Animal Services is rolling out plans to help a record breaking 45,000 pets this year to help get pets up to date.
Covid all but sidelined local pet vaccines clinics for 2020 and 2021. Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato said “we usually have a full schedule of towns to visit each Spring, vaccinating hundreds of pets at a time. We were able to hold a few last year, but many pets are falling behind on critical vaccines that protect them from rabies or parvo. We do have weekly vaccine clinics in our hospitals, but it’s imperative to bring vaccine clinics directly to communities for those who can’t easily get to us.” Second Chance is working to set up a full schedule of town vaccine clinics and will be announcing dates and locations shortly.
Second Chance is also looking to their newest Community Veterinary Hospital in Southbridge to help get more pets seen this year. Blancato says the new location is currently open three days a week and will be expanding to five as additional veterinary staff come on board. “Like all businesses, we’ve faced staffing shortages, but we are excited to welcome some new recruits.”
Homebound to the Rescue, a special program that helps keep seniors and their beloved pets together, is getting an unexpected boost from the viral #BettyWhiteChallenge that has fans making a donation to an animal welfare organization in honor of what would have been her 100th birthday. Second Chance has earmarked 100% of the funds raised through the challenge to Homebound to the Rescue to bring veterinary care to low-income senior housing communities at no cost. “We know it’s been especially difficult for seniors to get their pets seen by a vet, so this program is more important than ever,” says Second Chance’s Lindsay Doray who is tasked with finding funding. The program is entirely dependent upon gifts and grants and is made possible in part by the Banfield Foundation.
The nonprofit’s shelter and transport programs continue to serve homeless pets here in Massachusetts and from overcrowded southern shelters. Blancato points out that many shelters down south are reaching capacity and rely on Second Chance to help at-risk pets get the help they need to find a forever home.
“We are also trying to help some very shy cats from last fall’s local large-scale rescue find a home. We’ve created a reimagined shelter we are calling the Almost Home Lounge. Here the cats are free to roam and interact with interested adopters in one of our offices. It’s a great way to see their true personality and they are so much more relaxed now.” Adopters must call 508-867-5525 for an appointment to visit this special lounge. No appointment is needed to visit the adoption center in East Brookfield during public hours.
Blancato notes that despite rising costs, Second Chance is committed to expanding capacity in 2022. “We know there are many more pets who need help. We can’t let these pets down, but we can’t do it alone.” Those wishing to help can make a gift at secondchanceanimals.org/donate/ or checks can be mailed to Second Chance Animal Services, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515.
PHOTO: Jackimo is one of seven cats waiting to meet adopters in the Almost Home Lounge.
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Make a Difference: Take on a High School Intern
Calling all businesses willing to take on high school interns, help young adults explore career options, and build upon their skills for their futures!
Hello all! My name is Chelsea Lindblad and as the Career Coach at Quaboag Regional Middle High School, I am always looking to partner with businesses in the area to work alongside our 9-12th grade students in order to connect them with things like: internships, job shadowing opportunities, guest speaker spotlights, career exploration events, and all other career building experiences. We are even holding a Career Fair in April!
Our students are beyond excited to get out into the community, learn from industry professionals, and test out the waters to see which field may be the best fit for them. If this seems interesting or desirable to you, please contact me at clindblad@quaboagrsd.org. Let's make a difference!
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Literacy Volunteers of South Central Massachusetts
Seeking Board Members
Literacy Volunteers of South Central Massachusetts (LVSCM) is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote adult literacy. LVSCM furthers its mission by providing free, confidential, and individualized tutoring to adults and out-of-school youths over age 16 in basic literacy and English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) through the use of professionally trained and supported volunteer tutors.
LVSCM is accepting letters of interest from members of the public who would be interested in serving on the Board of Directors. The LVSCM Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring its financial stability, setting policies, and assisting the Executive Director in carrying out its mission and objectives. We are particularly in search of a candidate with a background in bookkeeping and/or accounting, as well as candidates with any other type of professional expertise.
Please direct letters of interest to our Board President, Yolanda Alvarado, at info@lvscm.org.
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Comfort Inn & Suites
83 Hall Road, Sturbridge, MA
Looking to grow our team…
Front Office Manager - Looking for a dedicated energetic individual who has attention to detail and hospitality experience. Must have customer service experience. Previous hotel experience preferred. Must be able to manage a team and be a leader. Weekends required. Looking for team-players. Please come in and fill out an application.
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Hitchcock Free Academy
Seeking a Treasurer
2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield, MA 01010
Under the direction of the President of the Board of Trustees, the Treasurer is an Officer of the Board and works with the Executive Director, Assistant Directors and Tax Accountant to maintain an accurate system of financial accounts and reporting for Hitchcock Free Academy. Part-time. $20 an hour. Apply today! See the full job description here on Indeed.com
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Nueva edición!
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com 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
Young Professionals Night Out at Wormtown Brewery
Tuesday, Jan 18, 2022, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Wormtown Brewery, 72 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester, Ma
*Must be 21 years of age to attend*
Join the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce members for a night out with new friends. We will be enjoying free appetizers and a cash bar at Wormtown Brewery. FREE. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
HR Roundtable: IMMIGRATION & I-9 COMPLIANCE WORKSHOP, The New Rules & Best Practices
Wednesday Jan 19, 2022, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM on Zoom. FREE. Open to HR professionals only.
Changes in immigration law affect our local employers in most every industry, including our two largest sectors: healthcare and higher education. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Seminar Series: Protect your small to mid-size businesses from cyberattacks
Tuesday, Feb 1, 2022, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, 311 Main Street, Suite 200, Worcester, MA
*Please be advised that all guests entering the Chamber offices will be required to wear a mask for the duration of their visit.*
Hosted by Bill Starbuck, Senior Business Development Manager and Corinne Winston, Account Executive, from chamber member Logically, this session will focus on what is needed today to protect your small to mid-size businesses from cyberattacks, and what a managed service provider is. FREE for Chamber Members, $20 for Non Members. 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.
Cloud Implementation and Cyber Security
Jan 14 | 12 pm
Although many organizations are stuck with "bolt it on afterward" cyber security programs, building security into your operations (and IT systems) is vital today. FREE. REGISTER
Marketing Your Products or Services to the Federal Government
Jan 19 | 12 pm
There are some basic requirements that a business owner must fulfill such as proper registrations and completion of databases. FREE. REGISTER
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Feb 7 Basics of Starting Your Business
Feb 10 Basics of Starting Your Business
Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these sessions and more.
COGGNO is the Chamber's 24/7 Training platform. Low cost and even free online courses are available for CMS Chamber Members.
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Good Acoustics - An Acoustic Tribute to Simon & Garfunkel and James Taylor
January 15, 2022, 6:00pm-10:30pm
A fun and engaging evening listening to the music of JT and Simon & Garfunkel faithfully recreated by Good Acoustics.
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 beautiful new WINTHROP ROOM at 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 complete buffet meal including salad and rolls. House made desserts can be purchased at an additional charge. There are always several protein options to choose from. Vegetarian and Gluten-Free options are available with advanced notice to our staff. Doors open at 5:30 pm, buffet begins at 6:00 pm, music starts at 7:30 pm.
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Toastmasters: Is it for YOU?
Open House
January 20, 2022, 6:30 to 8:15 PM
Chamber Office, 46 Hall Rd, Sturbridge, MA
Want to improve your public speaking, presentation, communication, and leadership skills?
357,000 Men and Women from around the world do it with Toastmasters. (357,000 members, 16,600 clubs in 143 counties, since 1924)
Toastmasters is the best way to improve your communication skills and lose your fears of public speaking and learn skills that will help you be more successful in whatever path you've chosen in life.
The best investment in you in 2022.
Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality.
Our focus is to help members improve their public speaking and leadership skills while building confidence in their abilities.
Village Toastmasters meet every Thursday night from 7:00-8:15 pm at the offices of the Chamber of Central Mass South, located at 46 Hall Road in Sturbridge. Visitors are always welcome!
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Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness
Proudly Presents Alice The Musical
Rehearsals start January 22nd!
Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness is proud to present our first children’s musical directed by Kathleen Lamprey. Children ages 7-12 will be given instruction on how to act, sing & dance. At the end of this 10-week program they will put on the musical for friends and family at The Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield, MA. This is a great introduction to the world of musical theatre!
Rehearsals will be held every Saturday starting January 22nd
(excluding February 26th) from 10-12pm
Show date will be Saturday April 9th
Cost for the full program and performance is $340.
Please contact us for more details or to sign up online!
Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness
71 Main St
Sturbridge, MA 01566
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Wild Game & Beer Dinner
Jan 27, 2022, 6:30pm at The Duck
The Duck is pleased to present a five-course wild game dining experience created by Head Chef, Tony Pitts.
As an avid sportsman and consummate chef, Chef Tony is excited to bring these two worlds together in this very special evening. Each savory course will be accompanied by a 5 oz. micro-brew specifically chosen by Chef Tony and his culinary team for an ideal pairing.
The cost for the wild game and beer dinner is $76 per person and includes all game courses, beer pairings, dessert, and coffee. Tax and gratuity are not included.
This special event is limited and likely to sell out quickly, so make your reservation today by calling The Duck at 508-347-2321.
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Gateway Players: Auditions for the Youth Musical Production of
“Schoolhouse Rock Live, Jr.”
Gateway Players Theatre of Southbridge, will be holding auditions for the Youth musical production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live, Jr.”.
Audition Dates are Sunday, January 30th at 2pm and Monday, January 31st at 6:30 in Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street, Southbridge. Entrance is on Park Street (around corner). Looking for youth ages 8-18 to join us in this classic musical.
Auditions will include learning and performing a song from the show and individual cold readings from the script. Prior to the auditions check out some of the YouTube videos of past performances. All actors will be required to wear masks to the auditions.
Directed by Bill Guy and Produced by Lou-Ellen Corkum. Performance dates are April 22, 23, 29, 30 and May 1. We will also be looking for adults to be our onstage Stage Crew. If interested or for more details leave a message at 508-764-4531. Rehearsals will be on Sunday afternoons, and Monday and Wednesday evenings. Presented by permission through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.
Synopsis:
Based on the Emmy Award-winning 1970s educational animated TV series, Schoolhouse uses the familiar songs from the cartoons to teach grammar, math, science, history, social studies and political science while telling the story of Tom, a young teacher nervously anticipating his first day on the job.
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Winterfest '22
Saturday, February 5, Noon to 8:00PM
Event by Rapscallion. To be held at Brimfield Winery.
Winterfest is back in 2022 and better than ever! Held on February 5, 2022 at Brimfield Winery, Winterfest ‘22 will be combined with our 2nd Annual French Canadian Day, the first of which was held in February 2020. Inspired by Carnaval de Quèbec, Rapscallion’s festival honors the rich French Canadian heritage that plays such a pivotal role in the local communities of New England.
The festival will feature a specially brewed double IPA, homemade winter beverage inspired by Quèbec’s “Caribou Juice”, hot mulled wine, poutine, snowman competitions, bonfires, a beverage ice luge, live music, and more! You won’t want to miss this festive, fun event. Family and dog friendly!
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Gateway Players: Dad's Dance
Feb 11-20, 2022
Gateway Players Theatre of Southbridge presents "Dad’s Dance”, by local playwright Ed Humphries. Performance dates are February 11, 12, 18 & 19 at 7:30pm and February 20 at 2pm. All performances will be held at the Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street in Southbridge. Parking is available on Elm Street, or in the parking deck behind the Southbridge Town Hall.
This comedy will be directed by Eric Hart, and produced by Ed Humphries. The cast includes Mikey Dearn, Teresa Simpson, Patrick Bracken, Stephen Jean, Mary Darling, Prreeti Tiwari, Lynn Boucher, and Ed Humphries. Stage Manager is Diane Servant, Choreographer is Valerie Langlais, and Technical Director is David Corkum.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for seniors and youth under 18. WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE ONLINE, AS LIMITED TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR FOR EACH PERFORMANCE. Tickets may be reserved by calling Gateway at 508-764-4531. Online credit card ticket sales are available at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/5322152
Audience size for the performances may be limited in order to maintain social distancing. All audience members at all performances will be required to wear masks regardless of their vaccination status. Socially distanced seating will be in place. Thank you for helping us keep you, our patrons, safe.
The hall will be sanitized by an electro-sanitized sprayer before each performance.
Synopsis: Brendan Carter is a doting Dad who has watched his daughter Emma nurture her passion for dance from a very young age to the very edge of adulthood. In her Senior Year, he decides to take a major leap and join the choreographed Dad’s Dance; an annual event that is always the highlight of the big end-of-year recital. It’s there that Brendan falls into the good graces - or clutches - of a ragtag group of fellow parents who put all sense of dignity aside to put on a show for the audience and a smile on their children’s’ faces - no matter the toll to their two left feet and equally fragile pride. And in the lead-up to the big event, Brendan begins to learn a lot about the healing power of community.
'Dad’s Dance' is a contemporary comedy-drama about the indelible bonds that sometimes form between strangers on this grand and surprising stage of life - one where comedy and poignancy carry equal weight - and where Brendan begins to understand that true wealth is measured not in the treasures we keep but the memories we make.
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Salem Cross Inn is OPEN Friday through Sunday!
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NEW DATES FOR FIREPLACE FEAST ARE AVAILABLE!
We’ve got tickets on our website for January 15, February 11, 18, and 25!
Grab them quick because these won’t last long.
Main Dining Room Current Hours:
Friday and Saturday 4 – 8pm
Sunday Noon – 5pm
We are currently looking to fill Server, Bartender, Bussers & Dishwasher positions. Click here to apply.
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
Nicole Courtemanche
Connectivity Point
Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union
Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp
Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
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Christina Hadis-Blackwell
Tri-Community YMCA
Tom Henry
North Brookfield Savings Bank
Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital
Anthony Marini
BankHometown
Trevor Nielsen
Edward Jones
Rita Schiano
Live a Flourishing Life
Amy Shaar-Wildman
Green Meadows
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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