Welcome to Crossroads News!
Mid-April brings many delights including Easter, Patriots' Day celebrations, Spring Vacation Week, the opening of the Farmer's Market at Hitchcock Academy and more warmth and sun! We are very excited to announce that May’s Fun at Five will be held at the new Rapscallion Pub in Sturbridge. Come and network with us and discover this special place! Thank you for sending us your press releases and entering your happenings on our calendar. Let us know what you have on tap for May. We love sharing your news and events with our members, neighbors and friends! Happy Spring and keep on KEEPING IT LOCAL in every season!
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: APRIL 29, 2022.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
CLOSED MONDAY, APRIL 18 FOR PATRIOTS' DAY
OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
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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FUN AT FIVE!
TUESDAY, MAY 17, 5:00-7:00PM
Rapscallion Pub
3 Arnold Road, Sturbridge, 508-347-7500
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Join us for Networking at the NEW Rapscallion Pub!
Recently moved to its new location at 3 Arnold Road, Rapscallion Pub has maintained its inviting rustic ambience while adding the new flair of a full bar and kitchen. Enjoy Rapscallion’s hand-brewed beer, great company, fresh bites, and the warm and friendly vibes offered by one of Massachusetts’ favorite brewpubs at Fun at Five!
Raps Runs for Charity!
Join Rapscallion Table & Tap in Acton on May 22 for a fast, fun 5K to benefit AccesSportAmerica, and Rapscallion Brewery on August 28 for a beautiful country 5K to benefit Second Chance Animal Services.
Register for Fun at Five by email or phone.
508-347-2761
Cost is $12 for Members who pre-register, $15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.
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THANK YOU TO OUR MAY FUN AT FIVE SPONSOR! |
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Country Bank is one of the most highly capitalized mutual savings banks in the Commonwealth offering full-service consumer and commercial banking services. Country Bank serves Central and Western Massachusetts and is a proud Founding Member of the Worcester Red Sox. Deeply committed to helping local communities thrive, Country Bank recently pledged $1 million dollars to the Worcester Country Food Bank and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. In 2021, donations exceeded $1.1 million dollars and supported more than 300 organizations throughout the region.
800.322.8233
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Annual Meeting Recap: April 12, 2022 |
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PHOTO: (L) Maura Healey speaks at CMS Chamber Annual Meeting
PHOTO: (R) CMS Chamber Board members with AG Healey (l-r) Alix McNitt, Rita Schiano, Rich Suitum, Steve Gardiner, Erika Travinski, Maura Healey, Chris Hadis-Blackwell & Dan Friel.
The Chamber held its 2022 Annual Meeting on April 12 at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center. We were so pleased to see many of our members, enjoy a delicious lunch and hear from our special guest speaker State AG Maura Healey. We wanted to extend sincere thanks to the Attorney General and her staff, the wonderful folks at Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center, our sponsor The Center of Hope, and all of our guests.
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SAVE THESE DATES IN JUNE!
June 11: Driving for Health and Education Car Show at Oakholm Brewery
Presented by the Chamber of Central Mass South and Harrington Auxiliary
June 23: CMS Chamber GOLF CLASSIC at Heritage Country Club
Sponsored by Cornerstone Bank
DETAILS ARE COMING SOON!
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We wanted to share a resource made available by our colleagues in the Department of Public Health regarding COVID-19 preparedness. DPH is working to remind our communities that we all have the tools to protect ourselves against the virus and its variants.
Please review this COVID-19 Preparedness Checklist and feel free to share. This webpage hosts a number of PDF fliers in English and Spanish (with more translations to follow) that can be printed and posted, and which feature a QR code to direct folks back to the mass.gov/CovidVaccine webpage that has helpful information regarding vaccines, testing, therapeutics and other mitigation tools. It has been a long two years battling this virus, but today we have the tools to manage COVID-19, and should continue to remind our communities of these resources.
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Upcoming Regional Employer Road Shows
The Baker-Polito Administration, including MassHire Career Centers and Workforce Boards and the Commonwealth Corporation, is hosting a series of 10 regional employer roadshows from late April to May, with the goal of connecting employers to new and existing workforce supports from the Commonwealth. You can register for the below sessions today:
- MetroWest | Monday, April 25, 4:30 PM | Joseph P. Keefe Technical High School, Framingham, MA
- Southeast | Tuesday, April 26, 3:00 PM | Bridgewater State University, Bridgewater, MA
- Central #1 | Monday, May 2, 10:00 AM | Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School, Charlton, MA
- Merrimack Valley | Tuesday, May 3, 11:00 AM | Northern Essex Community College - Lawrence Campus, Lawrence MA
- Pioneer Valley | Thursday, May 5, 1:00 PM | Holyoke Community College, Holyoke, MA
We are also working to schedule the following sessions. You can PRE-REGISTER for these sessions now, and we will notify you when a date and time is confirmed.
- Cape & Islands | Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical High School, Bourne, MA
- Berkshires | Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC), Pittsfield, MA
- Greater Boston | Bunker Hill Community College, Charlestown, MA
- Northeast | Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School, Danvers, MA
- Central #2 | Worcester Tech, Worcester, MA
The roadshows will be a unique opportunity to hear from MA workforce leaders and to share your perspective with them. Attendance will vary by event but speakers may include Lt. Governor Polito, Secretary Acosta, Secretary Peyser, and Secretary Kennealy, among others.
The roadshows will be hosted by workforce partners, including community colleges and vocational training institutes. Each event will be ~1.5 hours and will have roughly the same agenda.
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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 several 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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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, the new Driving for Health & Education Car Show and the Chamber's GOLF CLASSIC. We are actively seeking businesses that would be interested in sponsoring these events.
Our event sponsors are given positive exposure and enthusiastic crowds that are eager to share the good word about your business with their friends, neighbors and business contacts!
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 [email protected]. |
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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 [email protected] if you have any questions or to arrange a pickup. Thank you for your contributions!
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FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
508-347-2321
15% discount off food purchases only.
Does not apply to holidays, special events and cannot be combined with any other promotion.
Click on the M2M logo for more details on this offer and view more valuable offers from Members... for Members!
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A Leader's Legacy
Donna Boulanger retires as CEO and will assume Board Chair role;
Marco Bernasconi assumes CEO role effective April 1, 2022
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On April 1, 2022, Donna Boulanger handed over the North Brookfield Savings Bank reins to Marco Bernasconi Jr. as she walked out the doors at 35 Summer Street and into retirement. Donna will become Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, and Roland Gauthier will serve as Vice-Chair. Bernasconi, who has served as President since April 2021, will also assume the CEO role.
“When I reflect on my time with North Brookfield Savings Bank what matters most to me is the dedicated group of employees that I have had the privilege to work alongside and the Board of Trustees who have always put the Bank and its future at the top of all priorities. They are the heart and soul of this Bank who truly embody the Core Values that were adopted in 2018 of EXCELLENCE, TEAMWORK, SUPPORT OF OUR COMMUNITY, ACT WITH INTEGRITY AND SHARE KINDNESS,” said Donna Boulanger.
Donna was North Brookfield Savings Bank’s first female president, and she has overseen remarkable development and expansion of the Bank. During Donna’s tenure as President and CEO, North Brookfield Savings Bank saw increased success in growing the Bank from $165 million in assets to over $350 million but, most notably, raising capital from $21 million to $40 million under her leadership, all while enduring an economic decline in 2008 and a pandemic over the past two years.
“I am honored to lead North Brookfield Savings Bank and continue upon Donna’s many successes. Her leadership and mentorship to the team has been unwavering, and she has prepared them well for this transition and change in leadership,” said Bernasconi. “I am proud to lead an organization that the community, auditors, and peers have so well regarded, and that is a product of Donna’s work.” Recently, the Bank was voted Best Bank in Central Massachusetts by voters.
She is a leader who is a significant role model for women, a highly respected financial industry leader, and a community leader across Central Massachusetts. The Worcester Business Journal recognized Donna in 2021 as an Outstanding Woman in Business, and she also received the Massachusetts Bankers Association’s Outstanding Woman Leader award in 2020 and 2014 as a Woman on FIRE by The Warren Group.
She was elected to the Board of Directors of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston, FHLBB, in 2014. Donna was the first female board member elected from the membership and represents Massachusetts-based FHLBB members. She now serves as the Chair.
Donna was also the first woman elected by the membership to serve as a Director on the Board of the Depositors Insurance Fund and was on the Investment Committee, Long Range Planning Committee, and the Watch Bank Committee. She has also previously served on the Board of the Massachusetts Bankers Association, the Massachusetts Charitable Foundation, and the Scholarship Fund and served on the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston’s Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council.
“Donna’s unwavering leadership, community values, and lifetime achievements are nothing short of admirable. On behalf of North Brookfield Savings Bank, I wish Donna all the best on her new journey and look forward to partnering with her in her role as Board Chair,” said Bernasconi.
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. For additional information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
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Second Chance Receives Two Tractor-Trailer Loads of Donated Beds
to Aid Local Dogs in Need
Beds Distributed to Pet Owners at the April 9th Fitchburg Vaccine Clinic
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EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (April 5, 2022) – Second Chance Animal Services was selected by Greater Good Charities, in partnership with BARK, Inc, to receive a donation of dog beds to help enhance adoption efforts and temporary experiences for local pups. The beds will be offered to new adopters and approximately 200 beds were distributed at the April 9th community vaccine clinic in Fitchburg, MA to help local pet owners care for their pets.
Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray says Second Chance is grateful for the donation that will provide a comfy bed for those welcoming new pets from the nonprofit’s adoption center in East Brookfield. According to Doray, the beds won’t just help shelter pets but will help pets in the community. “Second Chance is committed to preventing pet homelessness. Our hospitals and many of our programs aim to keep pets in their homes and out of shelters by helping pet owners care for their pets. Distributing these beds at our low-cost community vaccine clinic will provide comfort to pets and educate pet owners about the resources available to them.” The beds will be distributed free of charge to pet owners who have registered their pet for the April 9th vaccine clinic which will be held at the Fitchburg Fire Department.
This local donation is part of BARK’S initial $10 million commitment in BARK products to enhance and expand initiatives by Greater Good Charities’ partner shelters and rescues to drive adoptions. Greater Good Charities is working with partner shelters nationwide to utilize thousands of BARK’s memory foam dog beds to help shelters enhance adoption drives and create dog adoption starter kits when individuals and families adopt new dogs. In addition, the nonprofit organization is offering BARK dog beds to pet-friendly domestic violence and homeless shelters to help families in crisis create a safe haven for their pup.
BARK’s partnership with Greater Good Charities is an expansion of the company’s ongoing work in giving back to dogs and their people. Since 2017, working with an internal network of over 1,000 partners in dogs and animal welfare across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, BARK has donated around $1 million annually in goods, services, and direct funding in order to help dogs stay in homes. Greater Good Charities, works to amplify the good in the world, and has provided more than $400 million in impact, including cash grants, in-kind supplies, and programmatic support, to over 5,000 charitable partners in 121 countries since 2007.
PHOTOS: (L) Just one of two tractor-trailer loads of beds donated to Second Chance. (R) Olivia, a lucky recipient of a new bed donated by BARK to Second Chance.
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.
About Greater Good Charities
Greater Good Charities is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit organization that works to help people, pets, and the planet by mobilizing in response to need and amplifying the good. Greater Good Charities, with a 100/100 rating on Charity Navigator, and has provided more than $400 million in impact, including cash grants, in-kind supplies, and programmatic support, to over 5,000 charitable partners in 121 countries since 2007. To learn more about how Greater Good Charities is amplifying the good across the globe, please visit greatergood.org or follow Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
About BARK
BARK is the world’s most dog-centric company, devoted to making dogs happy with the best products, services and content. BARK’s dog-obsessed team applies its unique, data-driven understanding of what makes each dog special to design playstyle-specific toys, wildly satisfying treats, personalized meal plans and supplements, and dog-first experiences that foster the health and happiness of dogs everywhere. Founded in 2012, BARK loyally serves dogs nationwide with themed toys and treats subscriptions, BarkBox and BARK Super Chewer; custom product collections through its retail partner network, which includes more than 33,000 stores across the U.S., including Target and Amazon; its high-quality, personalized nutrition and meal plans with BARK Eats; and health and wellness products that meet dogs’ needs with BARK Bright®. At BARK, we want to make dogs as happy as they make us because dogs and humans are better together. Sniff around at bark.co/ for more information.
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Watch The Center of Hope's Powerful Video: Join Our Efforts |
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Click the thumbnail to view the video.
Thank you for taking a few minutes to view this Video. Our hope is that you will now talk to your legislators, your neighbors and friends about the need to support people with disabilities by advocating for the funding that will truly allow each person the opportunity to be full participants in all aspects of the community. This necessitates support that allows individuals to walk their own path, use their own unique talents and live a life of dignity and respect. This requires a competent, well-trained staff who will be able to work in this field because they are paid the appropriate wages for the complex, professional work that they carry out every day. We need to value the individuals we serve and the people who support them enough to fund these services. Now is the time… this cannot wait. Join us.
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UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Appoints Two New Board Members
SOUTHBRIDGE, MA, April 8, 2022 – UMass Memorial Health – Harrington, at its Community Hospital Board Meeting in March, elected Gina Plata–Nino and Sarai Rivera to the Board of Directors.
Gina Plata-Nino is a local attorney at the Central West Justice Center in Worcester, working on both the state and federal levels on policy matters affecting low-income families, elders and persons with disabilities. Plato-Nino is the Co-founder and President of the Oon-Jai Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to alleviate poverty in Southeast Asia by promoting practical, sustainable, healthy living.
Also elected to the board is Worcester City Councilor Sarai Rivera, MSW. She is serving a sixth two-year term as District Four Councilor working professionally within the Worcester community in the field of human services and mental health. Her extensive experience in the areas of community mental health and interventions for multicultural populations in urban settings has allowed her to dedicate her life’s work to issues of social justice.
“We are extremely thrilled to have these two members as part of our Board,” says Mike Engel, board chair, UMass Memorial Health – Harrington. Diversity is an integral element of our core mission, values, strategies, and key initiatives. We continue to recruit community leaders like Gina Plata–Nino and Sarai Rivera to serve on our various boards who represent the diverse communities that we serve.”
“The community members who volunteer their time are critical to our mission and keep us connected to the people we serve and their unique needs,” said Ed Moore, president, UMass Memorial Health – Harrington. “Gina Plata–Nino and Sarai Rivera bring new skill sets to the Board and with their knowledge and expertise, Harrington can continue to better serve our patients and community.”
UMass Memorial Health – Harrington provides outstanding health care to patients in more than 25 communities throughout south central Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. We are dedicated to our role as the health and wellness partner of the people in our communities and we are relentless in the pursuit of healing. Our comprehensive array of health care services and locations provides our patients with unparalleled access to care. Harrington Hospital in Southbridge provides medical and surgical inpatient care, 24-hour emergency services, inpatient adult psychiatry, an intensive care unit and comprehensive outpatient services. Harrington Hospital at Webster, Harrington at Charlton, Harrington at 169 and Harrington at Sturbridge offer primary care and specialty physicians, diagnostic imaging and more. Harrington Physician Services is our primary care and multi-specialty physician group, UrgentCare Express at Harrington in Oxford serves as a walk-in medical center for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, and the Cancer Center at Harrington in Southbridge allows patients to receive advanced, local oncological and hematology care.
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Country Bank Welcomes Patrick O’Hara, Vice President, Commercial Lending Officer
April 8, 2022 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce that Patrick O’Hara of Hopkinton has joined its Commercial Lending Division in Worcester. A 17-year industry veteran with immersive client engagement, O’Hara will architect and deliver go-to-market strategies to support growth in the Commercial Banking portfolio while also delivering on Country Bank’s exceptional customer service standards. O’Hara has held several positions in commercial lending and business development with SunTrust Bank, Bank of America, Santander Bank and most recently Citizens Bank covering the Worcester and MetroWest Boston markets before joining Country Bank. In his new role, he will serve Central and Eastern Mass to support businesses throughout the region.
"Welcoming Patrick to the Business Lending Team at Country Bank is very exciting for us; he has an extensive background working with business owners to develop business plans, financing strategies, and, in the process, building long-term partnerships. These partnerships define Country Bank, and Patrick is a valuable addition to our team and exemplifies our iSTEP Corporate Values of Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence, and Prosperity. We are pleased that he has chosen Country Bank to be his Employer of Choice," stated Tom Wolcott, First Senior Vice President and Commercial Lending.
O’Hara holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Providence College, he is accredited in Commercial Credit from Omega Performance, and has received multiple top performer and excellence awards throughout his career. He is also an avid supporter of St. Vincent De Paul and New Horizons which supports Veteran’s issues and mental health. “I’m extremely excited to join a bank with such an impressive history of helping businesses grow and thrive in our region. Country Bank is one of the most well capitalized banks in the market, with a tremendous reputation for integrity and service to the community. I look forward to contributing to our continued growth and success across central and eastern Massachusetts, and beyond,” stated O’Hara.
Patrick looks forward to connecting with the local community and can be reached at [email protected] or 413-277-2111.
About Country Bank
Country Bank is one of the most highly capitalized mutual savings banks in the Commonwealth offering full-service consumer and commercial banking services. Country Bank serves 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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Old Sturbridge Village President & CEO Jim Donahue receives
2022 Paul & Niki Tsongas Award from Preservation Massachusetts
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Sturbridge, M.A. – Preservation Massachusetts announced winners of the 2022 Preservation Awards on Friday, April 1, and Old Sturbridge Village President & CEO, Jim Donahue, is one of 9 winners to be honored with the Paul and Niki Tsongas Award, Preservation Massachusetts’ highest honor. This outstanding achievement is reserved for people and projects that display the maximal level of commitment to historic preservation in the Commonwealth and was first given to the late Senator Paul E. Tsongas in 1988. Preservation Massachusetts recognized Donahue’s accomplishment of preserving an entire village which is beyond the requirement of a single program or building preservation.
Since coming to the Village 12 years ago, Donahue has balanced future-forward thinking with preservation of history. This has led to the preservation of one of the Commonwealth’s historic resources and preserved jobs, resources, culture, history, and community. As the largest living history museum in New England, Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) has been consistently recognized as one of New England’s most important cultural attractions.
Under Donahue’s leadership, OSV has preserved buildings as well as many of the museum’s programs and events. One of the first preservation initiatives Donahue pursued was the restoration of the grand front hall of the Salem Towne House, a c.1976 building moved from Charlton, MA to the Village Common in 1955. He established and grew many programs to expand the Village’s audience, providing opportunities for appreciation and connection with history. Always focused on the mission of educating, Donahue spearheaded the reopening of the Museum Education building and its programs, which welcomed back school field trips, serving thousands of New England school students each year and brought a charter school to Old Sturbridge Village in 2017. Old Sturbridge Academy serves children Kindergarten through 8th grade from 12 surrounding towns, the Village is their home for innovative and experiential learning.
This recognition is even more pertinent as it aligns with Old Sturbridge Villages’ 75th anniversary yearlong celebration, concluding on June 4, with a 75th Anniversary Gala.
“I am very honored to be recognized with this prestigious award along with such inspiring people and projects dedicated to preserving Massachusetts history. All of the initiatives, improvements, and innovations we have put in place to ensure the Village continues to be a historical resource to the community could not have happened without the support of our staff, trustees, donors, members and residents of the area. It truly takes a Village to bring forth the kind of success we have been fortunate to experience at OSV,” Donahue stated.
Bringing Communities Together is this year’s theme for Preservation Massachusetts, acknowledging projects and people that have encouraged collaboration among the Commonwealth’s diverse constituents. The 2022 Preservation Awards program is a month-long multimedia celebration that coincides with National Historic Preservation Month. The 2022 award recipients demonstrate how preservation goes beyond historic buildings and landscapes to include stories and important lessons for the future.
Jim Donahue and his 2022 preservation award peers will be honored during National Preservation Month in May. The celebration culminates on May 11, with a live event at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston.
PHOTO: Jim Donahue (R) with colleagues in front of the Salem Townhouse
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Brimfield Farmers’ Market at Hitchcock Academy
2022 Season kicks off on April 16
New hours will be 9am-1pm
BRIMFIELD – Spring is here, and Farmers’ Market season is upon us. The Brimfield Farmers’ Market will kick off its 2022 season on Saturday, April 16th in the parking lot of Hitchcock Academy. The market’s new hours are 9am to 1pm on Saturdays, and all the shoppers’ favorite farmers are returning with a few new vendors to offer locals the freshest ingredients money can buy.
Attendees can purchase a hot or cold cup of artisanal coffee from Joy of Beans (whole and ground beans are also sold), and snack on a scone or other Turnabout Farm’s baked goodies while they peruse tables of starter plants herbs from Flourish Farm and fruits, and vegetables from Hunt Road Berry Farm. Meal planning or grill planning is easy with a full menu of hormone and antibiotic-free beef and pork products offered by long time vendor Rocky Ridge Beef Farm. And weekend pancakes aren’t complete without a drizzle from Thompson’s Maple Farm syrup, nor is a market bounty without a pint of their homemade ice cream, crafted from John’s own special recipe.
The market is pleased to welcome Macaron Moon, a new home bakery out of Wales, who will share the popular, delicate French confections which happen to be gluten-free.
Additional vendors will be joining soon offering succulents, houseplants, and perennials, as well as lavender care products from Brimfield’s AP Lavender Essentials and hand-sewn gift items from CC Crafts. Brimfield’s Westwind Farm Food Truck will also join for those who need to tend to their hunger before shopping.
“After powering through two pandemic seasons thanks to the fierce leadership of Market Manager Linda Fuchs, where our farmers weathered so much more than their usual challenges, this season feels like a homecoming, like a celebration,” says Hitchcock Academy Executive Director Cindy Skowrya, “We can’t wait.”
Plants will also be on sale at Hitchcock’s 3rd annual Plant Sale on the organization’s lawn on May 7 from 8am to 2pm.
The market will run every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9am to 1pm, excluding Brimfield Flea Market weeks (May 14, July 16, and September 10), until October 29th. Some vendors accept cards, some only accept cash. SNAP benefits are also accepted by some of the vendors.
Hitchcock Academy is a community center located at 2 Brookfield Road in Brimfield serving the surrounding community with educational, recreational, and cultural programming. More information can be found at www.hitchcockacademy.org.
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Calling all watercolor artists!
Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, 111 Main St, Southbridge, will be hosting a watercolor show to open May 14, and be up for the month of May. This exhibit will have an entry fee of $10 per piece, or $25 for 3 pieces. The exhibit will coincide with our May Day Festival on May 14th, with a celebration on the lawn including food, music, vendors, and traditional May day activities!
To submit work, please go to our website, ruthwellscenter.com, and register under Call for Art.
Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, also known as Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts and Humanities, was founded in 1978 and is located in the historic Ammidown house at 111 Main Street. For 40+ years, the Center has offered a variety of art classes, music performances, children’s classes- all to advance their mission: The Quinebaug Valley Council for Arts & Humanities is a non-profit organization headquartered at the Ruth Wells Center for the Arts. It is our goal to enrich & enlighten through creative exploration of the arts.
The May watercolor exhibit is open to all local artists and the organization hopes that this opportunity will reach many who have not had the opportunity to exhibit in the light of Covid restrictions the past two years. For more information, contact the Ruth Wells Center, 508 764 3341. Please leave a message and your call will be returned asap.
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Careers at Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
The Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center has the following job opportunities available at our 203-Room property, featuring 2 restaurants, 24,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space and a fitness center.
Food and Beverage Manager, Catering Sales Manager, Lounge Bartender,
Server/Waitstaff/Banquet Staff, Front Desk Agent, Night Auditor, Guestroom Attendant
Sign on bonuses of up to $2,000 may apply!
If you, a friend or a relative is interested, please click on the following link to apply:
or apply in person at the front desk.
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“Why They Marched” an Author Event with Susan Ware
Sturbridge, MA — Join Joshua Hyde Public Library in the Winthrop Room at The Barn at Wight Farm on Wednesday, April 27th at 6:30 PM for an author event with Susan Ware, a celebrated feminist, historian, and biographer. Susan will be introducing her latest book, Why They Marched, a history of the women’s suffrage movement told through nineteen biographical portraits. These portraits resonate powerfully today as a new generation of young women demand to be heard.
Susan Ware is the author and editor of numerous books on twentieth-century U.S. history. Educated at Wellesley College and Harvard University, she has taught at New York University and Harvard, where she served as editor of the biographical dictionary Notable American Women: Completing the Twentieth Century (2004). Since 2012, she has served as the general editor of the American National Biography, published by Oxford University Press under the auspices of the American Council of Learned Societies. Other books by Susan Ware include written biographies of Amelia Earhart and Billie Jean King.
The event will begin with light appetizers at 6:30 PM and the speaker will start at 7:30 PM sharp. A cash bar will also be available. This event is FREE and registration is required. Please visit the library’s website at www.sturbridgelibrary.org to register online, or call the library at 508-347-2512 to register by phone. This event is sponsored by The Friends of JHPL & Mass. Cultural Council.
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Now Introducing IMAGINE 2050: A Vision for Central Massachusetts
This comprehensive regional plan will establish long-range strategies for our 40-community region. Working with residents, business owners, governments, and institutional partners, CMRPC will facilitate development of the community-driven plan. The project aims to identify the resources, problems, possibilities, and needs of the region to inform a plan that improves the welfare and prosperity of those who live, work, and visit Central MA.
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Now Offering American Red Cross training programs
At ColBro First Aid & Safety Training, LLC we are all about finding the right program for you.
By adding ARC programs to our library of course offerings, we provide you with more options.
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Changing Banks is definitely not on anyone's bucket list. But, when a change is needed, North Brookfield Savings Bank has you covered. We pride ourselves on making local decisions and by building lifelong relationships with our customers.
Oh, and did we mention, we were voted Best Bank in Central Mass in 2021? So, when you're ready, look us up. With locations in West Brookfield, East Brookfield, North Brookfield, Ware, Palmer, Three Rivers and Belchertown, we guarantee you will find some peace of mind knowing you are covered. 508-867-7442
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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
Financial Services Roundtable: The Future of Crypto Currency
Thursday Apr 21, 2022, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Virtual on Zoom
Fees/Admission: No charge for members of the Financial Services Industries.
Join The Worcester Chamber of Commerce and members of the Financial Services industry as we host Crypto expert Bruce Fenton, to discuss the future of Crypto Currency. 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.
Starting Your Business
April 19 | 6 pm
Starting a small business requires more knowledge, skills, perseverance and planning than meets the eye. Save valuable time and money starting here! This 3-hour workshop will help you clearly understand the details, challenges, opportunities and rewards.
Legal Business Entities
April 21 | 12 pm
Join our presentation on the legal issues facing all business owners. Part 1.
We will be discussing the different Legal Business Entities. We will look at the difference and similarities.
Make Your Website Work For You
April 22 | 12 pm
Join Bryan Caplan, Speaker for Grow with Google, for an info-packed webinar dedicated to growing your business online.
In this 45-minute webinar, learners will discover how to create a search-friendly website that drives user action and supports their goals. Whether launching a new website or sprucing up an old one, this workshop will help. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Grow with GOOGLE en Español
Alcance a sus clientes en línea con Google
Abril 26 | 6 pm
Aprende cómo encontrar tu negocio en línea con Google. Este taller explica cómo funciona el Buscador de Google y cómo puedes mejorar la visibilidad de tu página web a través de la optimización de motores de búsqueda (SEO). La sesión también presenta productos como Google Mi Negocio, Google Trends, Search Console, Google Analytics, Google Ads y más. REGISTRARSE
Ponga su negocio en la búsqueda de Google y Maps
Abril 27 | 5 pm
Aparecer cuando los clientes realizan búsquedas en línea es más importante que nunca. Asegúrese de que los clientes puedan encontrar información precisa y actualizada sobre su empresa local en la Búsqueda de Google y Google Maps, sin importar qué dispositivo utilizan. En este taller, aprenderá a crear y administrar un perfil comercial de Google de principio a fin. REGISTRARSE
Dale utilidad a tu sitio web
Abril 28 6 pm
Hoy en día no solamente es importante tener una presencia en línea con una sitio web profesional sino también asegurarnos de que esa página sea fácil de navegar y que aparezca en el Buscador de Google. REGISTRARSE
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Apr 19 Writing a Business Plan Part 6 - Financial Information
Apr 21 Basics of Starting Your Business
Apr 26 How to Open a Business in Massachusetts Legally
Apr 27 Building an End-User Statement that Meets Your Specific Needs
Apr 27 Intro to Doing Business with the Federal Government
Apr 28 Transforming Your Product Idea into a Successful Venture
Apr 28 Instagram Reels
Apr 28 13 Must-Have Canva Hacks
Apr 28 Using Financial Statements to Manage 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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Art Exhibit: Color Fields
The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, 111 Main St in Southbridge, is very pleased to be hosting an exhibit of original works by artist Nils Lee, entitled "Color Fields". His exciting, colorful and thought-provoking works will appeal to all ages.
The gallery will be open to the public Saturday and Sunday (except Easter) 10am- 2pm, and Wed 3-5pm until the closing April 24.
The gallery is free and open to the public.
For more information, call 508-764-3341 and leave a message. Your call will be returned asap.
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Acclaimed author and reformed drug trafficker, Freeway Rick Ross and NBA legend and Hall of Famer, Gary Payton will be visiting Green Meadows on Tuesday, April 19th, for an autograph session to celebrate the launch of their new cannabis brands, Freeway and Payton's Place! The event will take place in the dispensary from 2:30-4pm, and you must be 21+ for admission. |
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GREEN MEADOWS
64 Mill Street, Southbridge, MA 01550
(508) 909-5880
STORE HOURS
Mon - Thur: 10am - 7pm, Fri - Sat: 10am - 8pm, Sun: 10am - 6pm
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Spring Break Events at Joshua Hyde Public Library
Sturbridge, MA — As many of the local area schools release for Spring Break, Joshua Hyde Public Library wants to remind the public that they have a few entertaining free events scheduled to help pass the time.
Here is the JHPL Spring Break event line-up:
Tuesday, April 19 @ 11AM
Folktales from Asia - Join us as we hear Motoko reveal Folktales from Asia for kids of all ages. Registration is required and each child must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Sponsored by the Sturbridge Cultural Council. This event is part of our You Belong Here campaign committed to creating a community in which all patrons can participate in and contribute to the life of the library, regardless of race, gender, gender identity, class, religion, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of their identity.
Wednesday, April 20 @ 11 AM
Financial Literacy for kids: Bunny Money Financial literacy programs with Cornerstone Bank presents...Bunny Money. After listening to the Max and Ruby story, children will get the opportunity to work together to find out where Max went wrong and play a fun bunny ear game. For children in K-grade 3. Registration required.
Wednesday, April 20 @ 1 PM
Financial Literacy for kids: Budgeting In this program, students will choose the life they would like to live and the career they would like to have and create a budget that works for both. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required.
Wednesday, April 20 @ 6:30 PM
Armchair Travelers - Join us for a discussion of the book, The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson. Pick up a copy at the library! Sponsored by the Friends of the JHPL.
Thursday, April 21 @ 11 AM
National Tea Day @ Dragon's Tea Shop - It’s a PAR-TEA! Join us for a peek at tea around the world while we hear stories and eat a light snack. Enjoy an introduction to tea and a chai making demonstration/tasting with Pia Rogers, proprietor of Sturbridge Coffee House. Ever wonder what boba (bubble) tea is? Let's find out together while also creating tea-rrific tea art! For kids ages 4+ welcome with an adult caregiver. Registration required. This is a “You Belong Here” event! Sponsored by the Friends of JHPL & Sturbridge Coffee House.
Thursday, April 21 at 6:30 PM
LEGO Club: April Meeting - We meet once a month on Thursday evenings in the Library Meeting Room. Suitable for children ages 5 - 12 with adult caregivers. Sponsored by the Friends of the JHPL. Registration Required.
Friday, April 22 at 11 AM
Deb's Sing & Swing - Join us for stories and songs with Deb Hudgins. Lots of movement and audience participation too! For children ages infant to 6 with an adult caregiver. Registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Joshua Hyde Library.
Saturday, April 23 @ 1PM:
STEAM: Earth Day - celebrate Earth Day with some hands-on STEAM crafts using recycled materials! Suitable for children ages 5+ with an adult caregiver. Registration is required. Sponsored by the Friends of the JHPL.
Don’t forget Joshua Hyde Public Library always has free events scheduled every month on their calendar. Visit www.sturbridgelibrary.org for a detailed calendar of events, or call us 508-347-2512 for more information.
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Westview Farms Creamery is OPEN on April 16 and 17 for their 4th Annual Easter Egg Hunt! |
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Westview's Easter Egg Hunt will be held on April 16-17th at 11am-4pm each day.
Click the tickets button for more information and to purchase tickets online.
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Moondance - Van Morrison Tribute
April 16, 6:00pm at The Barn at Wight Farm
Rock and Roll doesn’t get any better than Van Morrison. Van the Man has done it all—from classics like Brown Eyed Girl and Domino to legendary tunes like Tupelo Honey and Into The Mystic. Moondance is the ultimate Van Morrison tribute concert. This incredible show captures the Van Morrison concert experience like no other. The show is packed with one VM classic after the next. Ticket prices range from $45-55 and are available exclusively through eventbrite.com.
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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Salem Cross Inn is now OPEN Thursday through Sunday! |
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CELEBRATE EASTER AT SALEM CROSS INN! APRIL 17
Easter is the perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones and enjoy a home-cooked feast, and what could make this special day more enjoyable? Not having to do any of the heavy-lifting! Spend this holiday at the Salem Cross Inn, where you can enjoy a carefree home-cooked meal in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Tables fill up quickly, so please make your reservations early by phone.
Our Dining Room is open from 11:30 to 4:00 with reservations on the half hour.
NOW OPEN THURSDAYS!
SPRING HOURS:
Thursday: 4-8, Friday: 4-8, Saturday: 4-8, Sunday: 12-5
We are currently looking to fill Server, Bartender, Bussers & Dishwasher positions. Click here to apply.
508-867-2345
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Easter with Table 3
For a special Easter celebration leave the cooking to Table 3 Restaurant Group. Our talented chefs have prepared sensational menus so you can enjoy a stress-free and relaxing holiday meal.
Celebrate Easter at one of Table 3’s highly acclaimed locations. We have so many terrific dine-in options it may be difficult to choose!
The Duck and Avellino will be serving a traditional à la carte menu with all your holiday favorites, fantastic holiday cocktails, and decadent desserts. Call 508-347-2321 for Easter Dinner reservations at The Duck & Avellino. Seating is 11am–4pm.
The Barn at Wight Farm’s spectacular annual Easter brunch buffet returns this year. The Barn’s buffet will be brimming with all your favorites. The price for this Easter feast (plus tax & gratuity). Call The Barn at 774-241-8450 for reservations. Seating is 10am-4pm.
Cedar Street Grille will be offering their unique brunch menu all day plus some great Easter specials. Call 508-347-5800 for reservations. Seating is 10am–4pm.
Cedar Street Café will be offering table service featuring a plated Easter brunch specials menu along with their awesome new menu. Seating for Cedar Street Café will be on a first come, first served basis and they will be open from 7am-2pm. Contact us at 508-347-6800.
If you require a gluten-free meal or have an allergy, please call the restaurant directly at the numbers listed above or let your server know when you arrive.
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Easter Dinner Buffet at The Publick House
Sunday, April 17th, 2022
Seatings from 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Adults $40.95 Children $16.95 (4-12yrs)
(plus tax & gratuity)
Maximum seating time allotted per each reservation
Reservations Required, Credit Card Required to Hold
72 Hour Cancellation Policy
For Reservations please call 774-304-1524
Monday – Friday 10 AM – 5PM
See the menu:
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Old Sturbridge Village
April School Vacation Week, April 18 - 22, 2022;
3-Day and 5-Day Programs Available, Times: 9 AM – 3 PM
Discovery Adventures are immersive day programs that give kids a chance to step back in time and experience life in the 1830s at Old Sturbridge Village. Every session offers kids the opportunity to explore an aspect of 19th-century history and daily life. All programs include an afternoon snack, hands-on crafts, and the chance to learn something new while making lasting friends and memories. LEARN MORE
Patriots’ Day Celebrations
Saturday, April 16; Sunday, April 17; Monday, April 18
Patriots’ Day observances at Old Sturbridge will resound with the stirring beat of drums and the thrilling call of the fife!
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Presents April Vacation Programs |
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Coming this APRIL VACATION...Encanto Dance Camp!
Filled with Fun dance choreography! Singalong!
Arts & Crafts! Fun games!
Reserve your spot now because this one WILL fill up fast!
Date: Friday, April 22nd Time: 9:30AM-12PM
Cost: $45
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April Vacation gives the perfect opportunity for your child to utilize their creativity & imagination!
Join us on a 2-day Fairytale Adventure this April vacation with our Musical Theatre Program! Learn Songs, Words & Motion to perform a Fairytale Skit at the end of the camp!
Dates: Monday, April 18th & Wednesday, April 20th
Times: 9:00AM-12PM
Ages: 4-7
Cost: $90
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CLICK THE GRAPHICS TO VISIT ONLINE OR CALL 774-441-0232 FOR INFO! |
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Hope Day Celebration
Saturday, April 23rd, 1:00-3:30pm (Rain Date April 30th)
Southbridge Town Common (Parking on Crystal St.)
Last Fall, Open Sky partnered with the Town of Southbridge to plant a "Hope Garden" of yellow tulips. The tulips bloom in the Spring, which is a perfect time to enjoy the garden and share messages of hope. We invite you to attend our Hope Day Celebration on April 23rd! This Hope Day event will bring us together to celebrate in anticipation of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, smash the stigma around mental health, and bring suicide prevention and mental health awareness to the community. The event will include speakers, performers, resources, activities, and the Hope Happens Art Show.
The Yellow Tulip Project is a youth-driven, nonprofit organization that aims to reduce mental health stigma.
We would love to collaborate with the Southbridge Community!
If you are interested in hosting a resource table or activity, volunteering, or otherwise participating in the event, please contact:
Brought to you by the Yellow Tulip Project, Open Sky Community Services and Southbridge Police Department.
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Opacum Land Trust
Annual Meeting Breakfast
Saturday April 30, 2022 at 10:30 AM
Together, we are protecting land, water, and wildlife for current and future generations.
We are gathering this year at:
Hamilton Rod & Gun Club
24 Hamilton Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566-0954
Come together with Opacum Land Trust and members this spring! Learn about the positive impact you’ve made on land conservation in our region and new projects we’re working on!
Catch up with friends, enjoy free breakfast, and meet Laney Wilder, the new Executive Director. At noon we will take a walk at neighboring Plimpton Community Forest, led by Opacum Board of Directors.
or call 508-347-9144
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
Hamilton Rod & Gun Club ● Sterling Engineering ● Marita Tasse, Re/MAX Professional Associates ● Personnel Strategies
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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
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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