Welcome to January's Crossroads Events!

Let's get together this month for some professional networking! We'll meet up at The Lounge at Comfort Inn & Suites Sturbridge on the evening of Wednesday, January 24th for Fun at Five. We would love to see you there! Tickets are selling briskly for Medium Night with Gary McKinstry on February 29th. Only 100 total tickets will be sold. Less than 80 remain. Get yours before they sell out! Did you know OSV is offering FREE admission to residents of 12 local towns on Martin Luther King Jr. Day? Read all about it in the Events section of this issue and enjoy your holiday weekend!

CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. Help us fill up our 2024 Events calendar with your big happenings and keep emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: FEBRUARY 1, 2024

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

The office is OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

CLOSED ON MONDAY, JANUARY 15 FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-347-2761 to be sure we are here.

CMS CHAMBER OFFICE, 1A RIVER ROAD, STURBRIDGE

NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER

Fun at Five!

Wednesday, January 24, 5:00-7:00pm

Comfort Inn & Suites Sturbridge, MA

83 Hall Road, Sturbridge, MA

Reservations: 508.347.3306

www.sturbridgecomfortinn.com

Let's meet up at The Lounge at Comfort Inn for a casual evening of cocktails and networking!

Come and network with your fellow members!

Enjoy cheese and crackers and drinks from the cash bar PLUS other special offerings to be announced.

Catch up on all that is new in the New Year!

You could win:

An Overnight Stay for Two at Comfort Inn & Suites Sturbridge

or

A Gift Certificate to Just the Details ($165 value)

(Car Detailing Service at The Center of Hope)

just for attending Fun at Five!

Will you join us for FUN?

Register for Fun at Five by email or phone.

508-347-2761 

Cost is $12 for Members who register, $15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.

Thank you to our January Fun at Five Sponsor!

The Center of Hope Foundation, Inc.

For over 66 years, The Center of Hope Foundation, Inc. has served individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from 64 towns in South Central MA and Northeastern CT. 

The mission of the Center of Hope Foundation is to provide people with disabilities and their families from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds with the resources, services, and opportunities to be contributing members of their communities and to achieve the most fulfilling and meaningful lives possible. This is achieved through day programs, employment support, in-home support, residential, and advocacy. 

The Center of Hope’s small businesses are designed as training facilities and work experience opportunities for program members. These businesses offer services directly to the local community and provide additional funding for programs. Every business is staffed by experienced workers who are licensed, certified, and/or trained in the business. Core employees ensure a high-quality product or service, which provides an important set of affordable resources for our community.

Services Offered to the Local Community:

Can Redemption

Shredding Services

Packaging, Production, Assembly, and Kitting Services

Auto Detailing 

Lawn Care Services

Janitorial Services

Construction Services

Printing Services

Other Agency Businesses:

Scoops of Hope, 54 Foster St, Southbridge, MA

The Festive Home

Hope's Treasures Thrift Store

Click to Learn More About These Business & Services  

Center of Hope's Businesses-Providing Employment Opportunities

Center of Hope Foundation, 100 Foster Street, Southbridge, 508-764-4085

www.thecenterofhope.org 

[email protected]

Enjoy! Central Mass South 2024

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? Feel free to drop by the Chamber office to pick up as many as you need or just drop an email to Alix and she will bring copies to you at your convenience!

Thank you!

Be Visible, Stay Visible with 2024 Marketing For Members Only Packages

The Chamber's Marketing For Members Only packages for 2024 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

Tourism Sector: Home Page Banner ads on The Sturbridge Townships

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 2024 M4M packages and individual marketing items on the Chamber website here.

Contact Jack with any questions or to get started.

GUEST SPEAKER: Dr. Charles Steinberg, WooSox President

SAVE THE DATE!

CMS CHAMBER ANNUAL MEETING

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024, 8:00-9:30AM

VENUE, SPONSOR, MENU AND MORE INFO COMING SOON!

Sponsorships Available

Get noticed! Sponsoring a Chamber event or program can give you exposure to the people that you want to do business with. Our affiliation with the Worcester Regional Chamber means exposure to 2,300 member businesses and an e-mail list of more than 10,000 professionals.

Programs for the Chamber's winter season are in the works. We will be seeking sponsors for upcoming Fun at Fives and other events. If your company would be interested in being a sponsor, or would like more information about sponsorship, please contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or email [email protected].

An Evening with Gary McKinstry

Thursday, February 29, 2024, 7:00-9:00pm

Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center

14 Mechanic Street, Southbridge, MA

Join the Chamber of Central Mass South and our guests at Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center for a mind-blowing night with Gary McKinstry, the incredible Psychic Medium Entertainer, on February 29, 2024, at 7:00pm.

Internationally known Psychic Medium Entertainer, Gary McKinstry, will share his gift to connect with the spirit world and bring intuitive messages to our guests at the Chamber’s second annual Medium Night. Gary’s work as a psychic medium for over 30 years not only includes clients in the USA, but also Brazil, France, Australia, Germany and Canada. Whether one on one or in a large arena, Gary is dedicated to helping people in all walks of life and death and will deliver your messages with style.

Gary is from Dudley, MA and he attended Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School. He is well known locally for his appearances at The Publick House Historic Inn in Sturbridge. Gary has appeared on live radio shows throughout New England since 1995, made TV appearances, and is featured in several printed publications. Gary and his wife Virginia currently reside in Norway, Maine.

To learn more about Gary and his work visit www.garymckinstry.com.

Tickets are $50 for CMS Chamber members and their employees, or $55 for non-Members. Cash bar.

This intimate and enlightening evening with Gary is limited to 100 attendees, so get your tickets now!

Consider dining out locally before the event! Shades Lounge at Southbridge Hotel offers New England-style comfort food and craft beers. Fins & Tales and Honest Town Eats are also close by! Pick your favorite and make your evening even more memorable! 

Questions? For tickets and info give the Chamber a call at 508-347-2761 or email [email protected].

With Gratitude to our Sponsor

for An Evening with Gary McKinstry

Dedicated to Perfection

Complete satisfaction is our #1 priority at Steve’s Collision Center, Inc. We understand being in an accident is a significant inconvenience, and we are here to help. We work with all insurance companies, but most importantly, we work for you as our customer. Our main goal is to exceed your expectations.

That’s what it takes to be the best!

210 Charlton Road, Route 20, Sturbridge, MA

508-347-9116

www.stevescollision.com

Second Chance Receives $1.1 Million Grant

From Petsmart Charities® to Improve Accessible Veterinary Care

January 3, 2024— EAST BROOKFIELD, MA – Fifty million pets in the U.S. experience a lack of access to even basic veterinary care. Rising costs and other barriers mean these pets struggle to access services such as spay/neuter procedures, vaccinations and critical medical and preventative care. With as many as 70% of households now including pets, this issue affects families in nearly every community.

PetSmart Charities has committed $100 million over the next five years toward improving access to veterinary care. The “Accelerator” low-cost veterinary care grant program is a key part of this effort. These grants support the expansion of low-cost veterinary care by funding growth and operations for up to four years for nonprofit clinics looking to expand their services, serve their communities better and inspire other veterinary providers by sharing their experiences.

The grant made to Second Chance Animal Services in the amount of $1,100,000 will support the expansion over the next three years at the nonprofit’s surgical center that provides lifesaving surgeries for animals. The anticipated impact on local pets and families includes saving the lives of more pets in need of urgent or emergency care who have nowhere else to turn.

“We are so grateful to PetSmart Charities for their continued support of our work to keep pets in their homes with the people they love,” said Sheryl Blancato, Second Chance CEO and founder. “Second Chance is a place that many turn to for lifesaving surgeries to save their pets, and to keep them together with the families that love them.” 

Second Chance offers a two-tiered system of subsidized rates for pet owners at their four Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester. Pet owners who are 150% of the poverty level received a subsidized rate lower than Second Chance’s standard rates. Those that do not fit in this category pay the standard low-cost rate. This helps to ensure access to care for all pets.

Overwhelmingly, people consider their pets important members of the family. Pets make a significant impact on the health and wellness of the people they love. This grant will enable more families to get the preventative and standard care that ensures their pets thrive at home and stay out of shelters.

“Our veterinary system is in crisis,” said Kate Atema, director of community grants and initiatives at PetSmart Charities. “Rising costs are putting standard veterinary care out of reach for as much as 50% of pet-owning families. We need innovative solutions that make veterinary care affordable for the families in every community who want the best for their four-legged companions but struggle to meet the cost of vet care. We’re inspired by the incredible work Second Chance is doing to create solutions that will build strong families and a healthy community.”

Last year, Second Chance helped over 48,000 pets including a beautiful black long-haired cat named Onyx who got into Christmas decorations. Her owner had seen Onyx chewing on tinsel and noticed that Onyx had not felt well for many days and was showing signs of being in much pain. She was seen at an emergency veterinary hospital, but her owner couldn't afford the price they quoted for surgery. Her family was grateful to learn that Second Chance veterinarians could perform the surgery at a reduced rate, allowing them to save their beloved pet. Onyx showed signs of feeling better as soon as the surgery was completed and home to celebrate the holidays with her loving family. 

For more information Second Chance Animal Service’s Community Veterinary Hospitals, visit www.secondchanceanimals.org/vetcare.

PHOTO: Onyx’s family turned to Second Chance when he needed emergency surgery after getting into Christmas decorations.

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. Last year Second Chance helped over 44,000 pets live better lives 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.

Follow Second Chance on Facebook: facebook.com/secondchanceanimals

Follow Second Chance on Instagram: @secondchanceas/

Follow Second Chance on Twitter: @secondchanceas

About PetSmart Charities®

PetSmart Charities is committed to making the world a better place for pets and all who love them. Through its in-store adoption program in all PetSmart® stores across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, PetSmart Charities helps up to 600,000 pets connect with loving families each year. PetSmart Charities also provides grant funding to support organizations that advocate and care for the well-being of all pets and their families. Our grants and efforts connect pets with loving homes through adoption, improve access to affordable veterinary care and support families in times of crisis with access to food, shelter and emergency relief. Each year, millions of generous supporters help pets in need by donating to PetSmart Charities directly at PetSmartCharities.org, while shopping at PetSmart.com, and by using the PIN pads at checkout registers inside PetSmart® stores. In turn, PetSmart Charities efficiently uses more than 90 cents of every dollar donated to fulfill its role as the leading funder of animal welfare in North America, granting more than $500 million since its inception in 1994. Independent from PetSmart LLC, PetSmart Charities is a 501(c)(3) organization that has received the Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the past 18 years in a row – placing it among the top one percent of rated charities. To learn more visit www.petsmartcharities.org.

Follow PetSmart Charities on Instagram: @PetSmartCharities

Follow PetSmart Charities on Twitter: @PetSmartChariTs

Find PetSmart Charities on Facebook: Facebook.com/PetSmartCharities

See PetSmart Charities on YouTube: YouTube.com/PetSmartCharitiesInc

Hometown Mortgage promotes Harris to Residential Lending Administrative Officer

EASTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS, January 5, 2024 — Hometown Mortgage recently promoted Jennifer Harris to residential lending administrative officer. Hometown Mortgage is a division of bankESB, a Hometown Financial Group company that also includes bankHometown and Abington Bank.

Harris, of Raynham, has seven years of banking experience. She joined the former Envision Bank Mortgage Division, now Hometown Mortgage, in 2016 as a loan coordinator. In her new role, she will be the administrator for the residential lending department.

Harris also has been a yoga wellness and therapy instructor at the Whitman Wellness Center since 2011 and has 15 years of teaching experience with certifications in senior yoga and energy healing. She has an associate degree in natural sciences from Massasoit Community College.

About Hometown Mortgage

At Hometown Mortgage, we help potential borrowers unlock the right home financing solution for their unique needs. As a division of bankESB, a Hometown Financial Group company that also includes bankHometown and Abington Bank, we leverage our combined strength coupled with shared services and technology to work with homebuyers across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and neighboring states to make homebuying simple and stress-free. At the same time, our commitment to community banking and local roots mean we can focus on the unique needs of those who live and work in the communities we serve.

Country Bank Announces Promotions

PHOTO (Left-right): Shane Elder, Brett LoCicero, Justin Calheno, Antonio Palano and Cuc Nguyen

January 10, 2024 - Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce recent promotions of several key team members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in their respective roles. These promotions reflect the bank's commitment to recognizing and developing talent within the organization.

Shane Elder has been promoted to First Vice President, Business Banking Team Lead. With over 11 years of experience in commercial lending and eight years in commercial lending management, Shane has proven himself as a valuable asset to the Business Banking Department. In addition to his role as Team Leader, he also oversees the Cash Management Sales Department.

Brett LoCicero has been promoted to First Vice President, Facilities and Security. With seven years of service to the bank, Brett’s expertise in managing facilities and security operations. He holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Nichols College and is pursuing his PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.

Justin Calheno has been promoted to Vice President, Retail Lending Business Development Officer. With an impressive 20 years of lending experience, including the last seven years with Country Bank, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Westfield State University and is currently attending the American Banker Association – Stonier Graduate School of Banking.

Antonio Palano has been promoted to Vice President, Retail Lending. Tony’s 15-year tenure at Country Bank showcases his commitment and dedication to the organization. Having progressed through various roles, he currently manages the Retail Lending Servicing and Operations Departments. Tony holds an Associate's Degree in Business Administration from Springfield Technical Community College and is a 2023 graduate from the New England School of Financial Studies.

Cuc Nguyen has been promoted to Retail Banking Officer of the Paxton Banking Center. With over 16 years of banking experience, Cuc brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role. Her previous experience at Commerce Bank, Berkshire Bank, and DCU has equipped her with a deep understanding of frontline management and customer satisfaction. Cuc holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Finance from Southern New Hampshire University.

"We are excited to announce the promotions of Shane, Brett, Tony, Justin, and Cuc," said Miriam Siegel, First Senior Vice President, Chief Culture and Development Officer of Country Bank. “We are thrilled to be able to recognize their hard work, dedication and contribution to the Bank’s success. We are proud to support the commitment of all of our team members to their ongoing professional and personal growth leading them down all of the many career paths in community banking today.”

Country Bank congratulates these individuals on their well-deserved promotions and looks forward to their continued success in their new roles.

About Country Bank

Country Bank is a full-service $1.7B with 17.0% Tier 1 Capital mutual community bank serving central and western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton 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.  

The #1 Hispanic Newspaper in MA

The latest digital issue of Vocero Hispano is available on their website.

View the Latest Issue in Digital Online - Free to Members

Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email [email protected] to get started.

Old Sturbridge Village Winter Hours, Events, and Programs

Sturbridge, M.A. – Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) is open for the 2024 season with visitor-favorite programs returning as well as expanded programming and new offerings. Opening day for 2024 is Friday, January 12. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through February 18. In time for February school vacation week, beginning Wednesday, February 21 the museum is open Wednesday through Sunday.

As a part of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, AmeriCorps team members will bring several special programs to OSV on Monday, January 15, 2024. Old Sturbridge Village AmeriCorps team members will lead several special activities such as a youth hearth cooking workshop (pre-registration required), contribute to the community quilt display, and will give special readings. In honor of the day, Old Sturbridge Village is offering free standard daytime admission on Monday, January 15 for residents of the towns in the Old Sturbridge Academy school district: Brimfield, Brookfield, East Brookfield, North Brookfield, Holland, Monson, Palmer, Southbridge, Spencer, Sturbridge, Wales, and Webster. Adults must provide proof of town residency for free admission.

On select Saturdays through February 24, visitors to Old Sturbridge Village will get a rare chance to tour the historic village lit only by candles, oil lamps, lanterns, and firelight during Evening of Illumination. Visitors will be treated to music and storytelling throughout the tour and will see OSV artisans at work by candlelight. Each tour will begin with hot cocoa or coffee and will conclude in the Bullard Tavern, where guests can enjoy warm beverages and light fare. This program is designed for adults. Evening of Illumination takes place on January 27, February 10, and February 24. Tours begin at 6:00 p.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. $35 for Old Sturbridge Village members and $50 for non-members. Pre-registration is required.

Maple Days returns on select dates in February and March. OSV’s working sugar camp demonstration shows maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century New England. See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to “sugaring off,” and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England. Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products and the tinner and cooper will make maple-related items.

New this winter season and being served on select dates, guests can enjoy expanded food and beverage offerings. A limited number of seats are available for Afternoon Tea on Saturday, February 3, and Sunday, February 4. Ox & Yoke Café will be transformed into a simple, yet classic, atmosphere complete with linens, flowers, and more. Guests can sip an assortment of teas, and taste a variety of small bites including delectable sandwiches and mini desserts. Reservations are required. Visitors to OSV on Saturday, February, 17 have the option to dine in the Bullard Tavern Great Room. Live music, a warm atmosphere with a fire in the hearth, and traditional hearty fare are part of Fireside Lunch which is offered for an additional fee. Menu and additional details online at www.osv.org.

Starting January 12th, the Ox & Yoke Mercantile is open Friday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Find gifts for every occasion made here in New England including home décor, bath and body, books, unique food items, Village-made crafts and kits, gardening supplies, children’s books, toys, and so much more.

Tickets to Old Sturbridge Village can be purchased online in advance. For more information visit www.osv.org.

Good Acoustics - Tribute to Simon & Garfunkel and James Taylor

January 19, 5:30pm - 10:00pm

The Barn at Wight Farm, 420 Main St, Sturbridge, Ma

PERENNIAL FAVORITES GOOD ACOUSTICS IS RETURNING TO THE BARN!

Come along and listen to the songs of James Taylor and Simon & 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. A full cash bar is always available and decadent desserts can also 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, the buffet begins at 6:00 pm, music starts at 7:30 pm.

Tickets are $55-$60.

Please visit thebarnatwightfarm.com or our Facebook page at facebook.com/thebarnatwightfarm to keep up to date on new shows or upcoming events. You can also call The Barn at 774.241.8450 for questions or for more information. 

Tickets can only be purchased on eventbrite.com.

Before joining Table 3 Restaurant Group, Chef James “Sid” Cavallo had been delighting diners in various regions of the South for many years with his distinctive take on Creole cuisine. Sid’s unique style of cooking skillfully blends West African, French, and Spanish influences with the conventional flavors of the Southern United States.

Come join us on this remarkable 10-course Creole culinary tasting journey into the rich, diverse flavors that have been shaped by so many cultural influences. This event is $65 per person, tax and gratuity are not included. Wine, beer, and cocktails are available from our bar at an extra cost.

Call 508-347-2321 to make your reservations today.

See more on Facebook: www.facebook.com/events/194476146994499

7 Bridges Road: An Acoustic Tribute to the Eagles

January 26, 5:30pm-10:00pm

The Barn at Wight Farm, 420 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA

7 BRIDGES ROAD IS BACK AT THE BARN! 

Is there a better way to spend a Friday evening in January than with New England’s own 7 Bridges Road Band? Returning to The Barn at Wight Farm and performing in our Winthrop Room, this acoustic tribute to the one and only Eagles is not to be missed. If you are even a little bit of an Eagles fan this show will have you singing along from the first song. This show sold out for their last 5 appearance at The Barn…so make sure you purchase your tickets early.

All shows are accompanied by a complete buffet meal including salad and rolls. A full cash bar is always available and decadent desserts can also 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.

Please visit thebarnatwightfarm.com or our Facebook page at facebook.com/thebarnatwightfarm to keep up to date on new shows or upcoming events. You can also call The Barn at 774.241.8450 for questions or for more information. Ticket can only be purchased on eventbrite.com.

Tickets: $55 – $60 Purchase on eventbrite here.

You can also call The Barn at 774.241.8450 for questions or for more information.

January Wine Tastings at Tutti Quanti

Tutti Quanti Wine Tasting: Saturday, January 27th from 1:00pm-3:00pm

Wine Tasting featuring wines from Southern Italy.

Abacus Distributing will be here to share knowledge on three wines from Southern Italy.

Free to attend and open to the public!

Tutti Quanti Wine Tasting: Tuesday, January 30th from 6:30pm-8:00pm

Savor a carefully curated selection of our wines paired with our products.

All Wine Tastings are from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Attendees will gain insights into the principles of pairing different wines with specific types of cuisine, creating a sensory journey that celebrates the nuances of both food and wine in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Savor a carefully curated selection of our wines paired with our products.

Registration fee is $10 and can be purchased on EventBrite (see link below). No refunds.

Guests will receive a $5 voucher to be used for a store purchase and are able to shop for wine and food after the event.

To Register: www.tuttiquantifoods.com/wine-tastings-events/

PLEASE NOTE: If you register for an event, we count on you seeing you there.

As you may expect, we prepare food and wine based on our registration numbers.

Please email Laurie if you need to cancel your registration.

Tutti Quanti, 538 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01518, 774.241.0476

Auditions for "Off She Goes"

Gateway Players Theatre in Southbridge, MA is hosting auditions for the world premiere of a brand-new play, “Off She Goes”, written by local playwright Ed Humphries (“Dad’s Dance”, “The Lost World”, “The Monkeybar Mafia”) on Sunday, January 28th at 3 pm and Monday, January 29th at 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street in Southbridge, MA. Entrance is on Park Street (around the corner).

Directed by Ed Humphries, Producer is David Corkum, and Stage Manager is Gwen O'Brien. Interested performers need only attend one audition. Show dates are May 3, 4, 5, 10 & 11. Rehearsals will begin in late February. Auditions will consist of cold reading(s) from the script.

The production is looking to fill the following roles: Ellie - Female - late 50's and older (the character is in her 80s so an actor can be aged up) Anna - Female - same as above Clark - Male - 20’s Young Ellie - Female - 20’s Arthur - Male - late 50's and up Jackson - Male - 20's and up (can be any adult age) Michael - Male - 30's and up Corinne - Female - 30's and up Peter - Male - 30's and up The characters of Ellie, Anna, Arthur and Young Ellie should be performed with a British accent.

Please contact Ed Humphries ([email protected]) with any questions.

Synopsis: “Off She Goes” is a comedy/drama about a British war bride, Ellie - who after saying goodbye to her husband of 60 years, moves into an assisted living community - assuming she’ll just mark time until her own time comes. But fate has other plans for her when she meets her new roommate, Anna - also a British war bride who came to the States after the war and finds she shares a surprising connection with Ellie. As Ellie flashes back to the pivotal moments of her life - the two women form a friendship and come to realize that while they may never have gone home again, maybe home has finally come back to them.

All January & February Fireplace Feasts are SOLD OUT.

Get your tickets for a March Feast while they last!

Join us for a special dining event as the Innkeepers at the Salem Cross Inn announce their series of 1700's style feasts, prepared on the open hearth of a great fieldstone fireplace. Relax by the fire as dinner is prepared for you in colonial style. Stir the chowder as it bubbles in our cast iron cauldron over a crackling fire. See your prime rib, roasted 'to a turn,' as the only known authentic Roasting Jack still operating in America rotates slowly over a crackling fire of wild cherry logs. Beware the brimming bowl of freshly whipped cream - the perfect complement to New England's best apple pie. While your dinner is cooking to perfection, enjoy a horse drawn wagon or sleigh ride through the valley on the Inn's pristine 600 acres. Shake off the chill with warm mulled wine or cider upon your return. Browse our extensive collection of colonial and federal period American antiques. The Fireplace Feast makes a thoughtful and unique gift for special friends or deserving associates. VIEW THE FIREPLACE FEAST BROCHURE HERE.

The Fireplace Feast is just one of our many dining events that provides an authentic colonial experience. At Salem Cross Inn, we capture the history and culture of 1700's America. Salem Cross Inn's dining events, excellent cuisine, and atmosphere have been featured on Food Network's "The Best Of," WCVB TV5 Boston's "Chronicle" and chosen as the "Hidden Jewel" by Boston's Phantom Gourmet and WGBY. SEE MORE DETAILS AND GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!

OPEN ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 FOR VALENTINE'S DAY!

* MENU COMING SOON *

Check here for the latest info

JANUARY HOURS OF OPERATION

Friday, & Saturday: 4pm - 8pm | Sunday: 12pm - 5pm

Call 508-867-2345 for reservations.

Visit the Facebook page for the latest updates.

www.salemcrossinn.com

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