Crossroads News banner
Welcome to November and CROSSROADS NEWS! The Chamber is looking forward to a busy month as we network at The Barn at Wight Farm on the 9th, cut the Ribbon at CrossFit Charlton's Grand Opening on the 12th, and offer a breakfast meeting on disaster preparedness for business on the 15th at Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center. We also welcome our newest Chamber Member and share some awesome events in this issue, including very tasty ideas for your Thanksgiving feast! Holiday shopping days are here and every purchase makes a difference. Thank you for Keeping It Local by supporting your favorite neighborhood shops and restaurants 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 Holiday offerings on our NEW Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. 
NEXT ISSUE: NOVEMBER 15, 2022.
CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-347-2761 to be sure we are here.
CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF VETERAN'S DAY ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11.
NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER
Fun at Five!
Wednesday, November 9, 5:00pm
The Barn at Wight Farm
420 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA, 774-241-8450

The Barn at Wight Farm is the picture-perfect choice for Sturbridge weddings, receptions, corporate events, anniversary parties and functions of all types. All our function rooms offer a rustic elegance that is unmatched in the area. Our three function rooms—The Barn, The Alpheus Room, and our newest addition, The Winthrop Room—are set on nearly four acres of manicured grounds in a colonial village setting which includes a patio, fire pit, and gazebo.

Part of the award-winning Table 3 Restaurant Group, The Barn at Wight Farm brings barn weddings to a new level. With four Table 3 Group restaurants within one mile of the property, we also have the perfect space to accommodate your rehearsal dinner or bridal shower.

Meet us there for networking, prizes, food, drinks and FUN on November 9!

Register for Fun at Five by email or phone.
508-347-2761 
Cost is $12 for Members who pre-register, 
$15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.
Thank you to our November Fun at Five Sponsor!
Country Bank is one of the most highly capitalized mutual savings banks in the Commonwealth with 1.8 billion in assets 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.

Our Story

Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference.

When we listen to our customers and learn what’s important to them, when we promise to support each other, and strive always to do the right thing, we can have a positive impact on our customers and our community. By working hard. By being accountable. By finding answers. By giving back. That’s not just we believe in. It’s what we were made for.
 
800.322.8233
You're Invited!
Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!
Saturday, November 12, 10:00am to Noon
CrossFit Charlton
168 Worcester Road (Route 20), Charlton, MA 01507
(508) 769-2308

CrossFit Charlton's official grand opening will take place on Saturday, November 12th.
The event will kick off at 10 a.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony presented by the Chamber of Central Mass South, which will be followed by an open house of the brand new gym at 168 Worcester Road
in Charlton until noon.

The ceremony will include presentations by local dignitaries and the snipping of the official red ribbon!
Locally crafted food and beverages will be available at the open house!
 
CrossFit Charlton’s grand opening event will welcome local visitors, including Charlton Selectmen Stephen Koronis and Barbara Zurawski, Charlton Town Administrator Andrew Golas, Officer Derek Gaylord and K9 Officer Dozer of the Charlton Police Department, the Charlton Fire Department’s “Touch a Truck” program, where kids are invited to explore and touch a real fire truck, and food and beverages from local venues, including Toasted Roasters, Work of Art Cookies, and Fay Mountain Farm. 

All are welcome to attend. There is no cost and no need to RSVP.

Floods. Tornadoes. Hurricanes. They are increasing in frequency and intensity.
Are you ready?

Business Preparedness and Resiliency
During Times of Disaster
Tuesday, November 15, 7:30-9:00am
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
14 Mechanic Street, Southbridge
 
Presented by:
Kevin Filchak, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)
 
This workshop will provide the tools necessary to identify, mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from any and all hazards that may affect you and your business. This interactive session will draw on recent examples and lessons learned.
Topics of discussion include, but are not limited to:
Hazard identification and rating
• Prioritization of hazards
• The Preparedness Cycle
----о Plan
----о Organize and equip
----о Train
----о Exercise
----о Evaluate and improve
• Recommended plans
----о Emergency operations plan
----о Continuity of business plan
----о Resource list
• Tools and resources
• Q&A
Menu – The Vision
Scrambled Eggs with Fresh Herbs, Smoke House Bacon
Seasoned Breakfast Potatoes, Sliced Seasonal Fruit with Honey Yogurt Dip
Assorted Breakfast Baked Goods
Individual Chilled Juices, Freshly Brewed Coffee
Decaffeinated Coffee and Assorted Tea

Cost is $30 per person for Members.
Please RSVP by November 9 to reserve your spot.

To RSVP:
Call 508-347-2761 or email [email protected]
Members may login to register and pay for this event online on the Chamber website.
FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT FROM OUR NEWEST MEMBER!

413-213-3980
Lilly's Restoration will come to your residential or commercial property and perform a Free no obligation Moisture inspection, If we find that you have an interior moisture issue due to failing plumbing we can assist you with our Water Damage Restoration services and even bill your property insurance carrier. Please call 413-213-3980

Click on the M2M logo to view all the M2M deals!
Welcome, New Chamber Members!

We are very pleased to welcome our newest Members to the Chamber of Central Mass South!

Lilly's Restoration
24/7 Emergency Water & Fire Restoration
At Lilly’s Restoration, our #1 priority is to restore your property to its perfect, pre-disaster condition.
We Specialize in Water Damage Restoration, Fire Damage Restoration, & Mold Remediation.
Call for a FREE estimate.

(413) 213-3980

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. 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].
New Chamber & Tourism Websites!

Members, create your profile on the new Chamber website: www.cmschamber.org. Login to the "members only" Info Hub to create your Account. Click the Member Login button at the top of the home page to get started. Your email address must be in our new system for you to be instantly approved. If it is not, give us a ring or email and we can add your email address from our end.

Once you have joined, you will be able access vital resources, advertise your upcoming events, post any Hot Deals you may be offering, register for Chamber events, post Member 2 Member discounts, pay invoices, even create Job Postings to recruit new employees!

Also, take a peek at www.sturbridgetownships.com, the new tourism site for visitors to our area. If you post your event to the Chamber calendar and it is tourism related, we will feature it on the Sturbridge Townships page, too!

We look forward to your feedback!
If you run into technical issues or questions, don't hesitate to drop us an email or call 508-347-2761.
Teddy G’s Pub & Grill is teaming up with Caring Partners' Coats
for Kids & Families To Collect Winter Coats of All Sizes
For Those in Need Through November 30th
 
Winter coats needed to fulfill one mission:
“Anyone who needs a coat will have one.”
STURBRIDGE, MA, October 14, 2022 – In tough economic times and cold New England weather, a warm coat isn’t a luxury, it is a necessity. In our very own community, there are hundreds of children and adults who may otherwise not have access to warm winter coat this winter.

For the third year in a row, Teddy G’s Pub & Grille, at 179 Main Street, Sturbridge, will be conducting a month-long winter coat drive beginning Tuesday, October 25 and ending Wednesday, November 30, according to owners Ted and Jenna Gidopoulos.

The local effort is being conducted in partnership with the Anton’s Cleaners Coats for Kids & Families program that has collected, cleaned, and distributed 1,150,631 since the program began in 1995.

“In 2021, Teddy G’s collected more than 100 coats, and this year, we’re hoping to surpass that number,” says Ted. “Donate one or more warm winter coats for children or adults, and we’ll say ‘thank you’ with a complimentary $10 Teddy G’s gift card (one gift card per customer please). Just place your donated coat(s) in a bag, and exchange the bag for a gift card from the host on arrival.”

Coats collected at Teddy G’s will be cleaned free of charge by Anton’s Cleaners then made available to a network of over 90 distribution partners made up of local nonprofits, social service agencies, schools, and religious groups, including the Federated Church of Sturbridge & Fiskdale, to ensure the coats are given to those who really need them, also free of charge.

“For nearly three decades, Caring Partners has had one mission: anyone who needs a coat, will have one,” said Arthur Anton Jr., COO of Anton’s Cleaners and founder of the program. “Local schools, companies, clubs, and nonprofits collaborate each year to collect, clean and distribute 50,000 winter coats - it is nothing short of a miracle. We are proud this program gives back directly to the communities we serve.”

“Coats for Kids & Families accepts warm winter coats – kids, adults, and babies -- that are gently used, good quality, and all sizes (especially XL and infant/pre-K sizes). The drive does not accept coats with rips, tears, broken zippers, or permanent stains, nor can we accept sweatshirts, vests and spring coats,” advises Jenna. “Please donate coats you would give a friend to wear in the winter, and please be sure to empty all pockets.”

Teddy G’s is a casual American Pub & Grille that is open for dining and take-out Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays). Reservations are accepted until 3 p.m. daily at (508) 347-1900 or (508) 347-9300.

Partners for the 2022-2023 Coats for Kids & Families drive include Anton's Cleaners, Enterprise Bank, Jordan's Furniture, Boston 25, KISS 108, JAM’N 94.5, 101.7 The Bull, and WBZ News Radio.
Cornerstone Bank donates $5,000 to 2022 Fall Food Comedy Festival
Festival to be hosted by Spencer Exchange Club on November 5
 
WORCESTER, Mass. – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 10 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, has donated $5,000 to the Spencer Exchange Club to help support their 2022 Fall Food Comedy Festival, which will take place November 5 at the Spencer County Inn. Proceeds from the event will go towards improving the parks and recreation areas in the town of Spencer. The event is back in 2022 after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
 
We have previously supported this event, which was a roaring success,” said Tallman. “Back in 2019, our donation supported Spencer Exchange Club’s renovation of the age six and under area at Powder Mill Park in Spencer, making it a safer place for children to play. It brings us great joy to know we will again be helping create improved places for people of all ages to enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces in our region.”
 
Throughout the years, the Exchange Club of Spencer has been responsible for community improvements of all types, such as the beautification of town parks, the Town Hall clock restoration, Memorial Day flags, and the Spencer Little League Association refreshment booth.
 
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.
Find Great Deals at the Dexter Outlet Store
Dexter Russell, Inc. is the largest manufacturer of professional cutlery in the United States and continues to maintain a tradition of excellence in both materials and workmanship. Visit the Dexter Factory Outlet Store for great deals on quality products like kitchen cutlery, kitchen tools, industrial cutlery, tactical knives, and more!

DEXTER OUTLET STORE HOURS
Thursdays from 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Saturdays from 8:00 AM - 12 NOON

FACTORY SECONDS
30% off First Quality List Price
SPECIAL
JUMBO STEAK KNIFE
4 FREE knives with any sale over $100

DEXTER FACTORY OUTLET, 44 RIVER STREET, SOUTHBRIDGE, Tel: 800-343-6042
Annual Toy Drive Returns to North Brookfield Savings Bank
North Brookfield Savings Bank proudly partners with toy collection programs in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Three Rivers and Palmer to collect toys for local children. Local Children assist us in finding the best toys for children in need.
  
North Brookfield, MA For North Brookfield Savings Bank the holiday season is a special time of year. It is when people and communities come together, and what better way to do so than by helping make sure that all children in our communities experience a wonderful, joy-filled, holiday season.
 
Starting November 1st and running through November 30th North Brookfield Savings Bank’s Annual Toy Drive aims to ensure holiday wishes comes true for our younger community members. Monetary donations and new toys will be collected at Bank branch locations.
 
During the Toy Drive, community members are welcome to visit any branch location to make their donations of new unwrapped toys for children. All toys collected will be donated to local toy programs in each community, to ensure that local children in need will receive holiday presents. This year, the Bank’s Ware branch location will be primarily accepting monetary donations to help their local toy program partner the Ware Police Department, who has reformatted their program to be more tailored to each family in need. Our Belchertown location will only accept donations of toys, not funds, as their local toy program partner the Belchertown Police Department, has also reformatted their program for 2022.
 
In addition to toys, NBSB will accept financial contributions in each branch location to purchase additional gifts for the toy drive. The Bank will match every dollar donated, as well as contribute $1 for every toy collected, up to $250 per branch location.
 
“As a local Bank that places a high importance on embracing and committing to the values of kindness and community support, North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to continue the tradition of hosting our Annual Toy Drive at our locations,” said Nicole Syriac, Digital Marketing Strategist at North Brookfield Savings Bank. “We want to ensure that every child has the opportunity to have a wonderful holiday season, this year and every year. We know this goal is possible with the continued support and kindness of our local community. We invite all of you to visit us, as you have so generously done in the past, to make your contribution.”
 
Donations are being accepted at these North Brookfield Savings Bank branches:
 
  • North Brookfield Branch, 9 Gilbert Street – partnering with the North Brookfield Police Association’s Toys for Joys Program
 
  • East Brookfield Branch, 100 West Main Street, Route 9 – partnering with the East Brookfield Toys for Joy Program
 
  • West Brookfield Branch, 128 West Main Street, Route 9 – partnering with the West Brookfield Police Association Holiday Toy Program
 
  • Ware Branch, 40 Main Street, Route 9 – partnering with the Ware Police Department Holiday Toy Program- only accepting monetary donations for 2022.
 
  • Belchertown Branch, 4 Daniel Shays Highway, Routes 9 and 202 – partnering with the Belchertown Firefighters Association Adopt-a-Family Program-only accepting toy donations for 2022.
 
  • Palmer Branch, 1051 Thorndike Street – partnering with the Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program
 
  • Three Rivers Branch, 2060 Main Street – partnering with the Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program
 
Syriac continued, “The holiday season is about caring for those around us and being generous. It is heartwarming every year to witness how our community members support each other. By partnering with the local toy drive organizations and our giving residents we are able to bring a child holiday cheer and truly embody the spirit of the holiday season. Thank you to everyone who plans to give this year and has supported this effort in the past.”
 
To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank’s community giving efforts and all the convenient banking products and services offered, visit www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
 
ABOUT NORTH BROOKFIELD SAVINGS BANK
North Brookfield Savings Bank is a mutual savings bank with full-service branches in North Brookfield, East Brookfield, West Brookfield, Ware, Belchertown, Palmer, and the Three Rivers Village of Palmer. NBSB offers a wide variety of deposit and loan products for individuals and businesses throughout Central and Western Massachusetts and has been a steadfast supporter of the communities it serves since 1854. All deposits are insured by the FDIC and the Depositors Insurance Fund. North Brookfield Savings Bank was voted Best Bank in Central Massachusetts for 2021 and was named “Community Icon” Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation in 2022. For more information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com. 
Decoration Distribution
Sat 11/5 & Sun 11/6 9:00a-4:00p (or any part of the day)
Sun 11/13 TBD

We will start at the Warehouse on Mill Street and then will be moving goods to locations on Main Street and the Common. If you have a truck, that's a HUGE help and trailers work, too! This year we have had very LOW turnout and if we don't get help, this program will go away...please consider giving us time!

The tree lighting happens on November 26th.

The 2022 Vision needs you!
Please signup today!
Visit our Facebook, Email us
or Contact Denise: 508-277-4494
The virtual New England Regional Job Fair will be held on Premier Virtual and allows employers to interact with job seekers through a virtual booth, instant message or chat, and view resumes.
Questions? Please contact your local MassHire Career Center.
Registration Deadline: TODAY November 1, 2022
Click REGISTER YOUR COMPANY TODAY (above) or use this link.
Rotary Club of Sturbridge Announces
2nd Annual TREK Sturbridge Halloween 5K, 1K & Fun Walk Winners
Sturbridge, MA – The Rotary Club of Sturbridge has announced the winners of its second annual TREK Sturbridge Halloween 5K, 1K and Fun Walk that was held on Sunday, October 30, 2022, according to club president and race director Klaus Hachfeld.
 
The family-friendly event included two timed races, including a 5K Trail Run, a 1K Road Run, and a 5K Trail Fun Walk using the Old Sturbridge Village Education Center on Old Sturbridge Village Road and the Arbitus Park Trail in the Leadmine Mountatin Conservation Lands. The event also included free games for younger children, a costume parade, and relay races organized by a volunteer team from Burgess Elementary School.
 
“We were blessed with beautiful weather, wonderful volunteers, supportive sponsors, and lots of costumed runners of all ages,” says Hachfeld. “Thanks to everyone who helped make this event so successful for a second year in a row.”
 
The results below were tabulated by Doug Kingman for RaceWire:
 
Top male finishers in the TREK Sturbridge Halloween 5K Trail Race included first place, Trent Sturtevant (19:14); second place, Brandon Delpriore (21:03); third place, Harrison Broderick (21:17).  Top female finishers included first place, Haley Courtney (22:11); second place, Michele Frigon (22:10), and third place, Kylie McCarthy (24:22).
 
Top male finishers in the TREK Sturbridge Halloween 1K Pre-Teen Road Race included first place, Archer Gendron, Age 8, (05:23); second place, Riker Gendron, Age 7, (05:33); and third place, Sonny Saad, Age 2, (14:22 ).  Top female finishers in the 1K Pre-Teen Road Race included first place Samantha White, Age 11, (05:06); second place, Aurora Gagne, Age 10 (06:41), and third place, Mackenzie Clancey, Age 10 (07:04).
 
The Trek Sturbridge Halloween 5K and Fun Walk is a Sturbridge Rotary Club fundraiser, with all profits going to local student scholarships and other community needs projects. Gold Sponsors for the event included Hearthstone Market, Marino Law, P.C., Old Sturbridge Village, The Publick House, RE/MAX Professional Associates, and Southbridge Credit Union. Silver Sponsors included Baba Sushi, Clearcom IT Solutions, Cormier Jewelers, Dave’s Pest Control, Rick Simoneau/Fairway Mortgage, Studio 20/20, and Tasse/Crowley Fuel Corporation. Bronze Sponsors included Cook’s Farm Orchard, George Davis, Attorneys at Law, I Am T-Shirts, Jeffrey M. Chasse, Attorney at Law, Joe Klimavich Public Relations, McCurdy Insurance, Safety Source N.E., and Unique Hair by Chrissy.
 
Rotary International is a worldwide service organization of business and professional men and women united to provide Humanitarian Service, encourage High Ethical Standards in all vocations, and help build Goodwill and Peace throughout the world. The Sturbridge Rotary Club meets for dinner at 6 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of the month at the Publick House Historic Inn on Sturbridge Common, Route 131, Sturbridge. New members are welcome. For additional information, visit the Sturbridge Rotary Club website at sturbridgerotary.com/

Photo: Kegan Cline (Center) brought sons Kegan, Jr. and Julian out for the race in full regalia.
The #1 Hispanic Newspaper in MA
The latest digital issue of Vocero Hispano is available on their website.
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email [email protected] to get started.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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

Manufacturing Roundtable: Supply Chains
Wednesday Nov 9, 2022, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EST, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce offices
Free to Chamber Members
Our Q4 Manufacturing Roundtable will be a discussion on supply chain management with Josh Chernin of Business Improvement Group. Josh has more than 30 years of manufacturing and operations leadership in the US and Europe, and has visited and consulted for over 300 manufacturing plants in his career. As supply chains continue to be an issue with unusually long lead times, workforce shortages, and inflation, Josh will lead a discussion where we will share best practices in adapting to the new realities of supply chain management. LEARN MORE & 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.

Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs
Nov 2 | 10 am
Discover how to create a collaborative environment where everyone is responsible for design. REGISTER

Simplifying Social Media Marketing for Small Business
Nov 10 | 12 pm
Social Media can be a powerful tool for winning new customers and clients. REGISTER

View more upcoming SCORE Webinars Here.


BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar

Nov 2   Writing a Business Plan Part 1 - Legal Formation
Nov 2   Access to Capital
Nov 4   Best Practices for Global Trade Compliance Risk Assessment globe
Nov 7   Basics of Starting Your Business
Nov 8   How to Open a Business in Massachusetts Legally
Nov 9   Writing a Business Plan Part 2 - The Business Description
Nov 9   Nuts and Bolts For Federal Contracting
Nov 10   Massachusetts Health Connector: Affordable, Flexible Health Coverage for Small Business
Nov 10   Business Tax Considerations for 2022 and 2023

Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these sessions and more.
Walktober 2022
September 17 - November 6

The Last Green Valley is celebrating 32 years of Walktober in 2022! We know from the past two years of Walktober that we can safely provide plenty of opportunities, in partnership with groups like yours, to help people best experience what makes this region worthy of being a National Heritage Corridor. We have wide-open spaces to explore with walks, hikes, historic tales, paddles, bike rides, farm visits, and more offered by dedicated & passionate Walktober leaders and the generous sponsors that make it happen. Thank you to them all!

Looking to experience your own adventures? Visit our online calendar here or view the 2022 print brochure here. When available, the online calendar of events provides the most accurate and up to date information on Walktober, including cancellations and additions.

SALEM CROSS INN IS OPEN!
Repairs to the barn are complete and Salem Cross Inn is open with regular hours.
THURSDAY - FRIDAY - SATURDAY: 4:00-8:00
SUNDAY: NOON TO 5:00

FIREPLACE FEASTS ARE BACK!
The 2022-2023 season begins on November 4th!
TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW!
SEE THE DETAILS AND RESERVE YOUR DATE HERE.

Celebrate THANKSGIVING with Salem Cross Inn
Thursday, November 24th, 2022 from 11:30am – 3:00pm
Reservations can be made by calling 508-867-2345 Tuesday – Friday from 10:00 – 2:00.
If there is no answer, leave a message and we will try to return your call during office hours.
Cost is $65. for adults and $25. for children 10 & under including tax and gratuity.

Visit the Facebook page for the latest updates.

508-867-2345
Join us in Celebration! Ribbon Cutting in Holland on November 2

The Town of Holland and Opacum Land Trust are delighted to invite you to join us in a ribbon cutting to celebrate the purchase of the Stevens Brook Sichol Community Forest in Holland, MA.
What: Ribbon Cutting for Stevens Brook Sichol Community Forest
When: Wednesday, November 2nd at 1 PM
Where: Blodgett Road Trailhead, Holland MA 01521 (at the end of Blodgett Road, just past 18 Blodgett Road)


Standing ceremony - bring your own chair if you want to sit. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, join us for a short walk around the property. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Light refreshments will be provided.
Please contact us with any questions. We hope to see you there!

Laney Wilder, Executive Director, Opacum Land Trust
508.347.9144

Stacy Stout, Holland Town Administrator
413.245.7108 x 101
Auditions for “The Monkeybar Mafia”

Gateway Players Theatre announces auditions for “The Monkeybar Mafia”, written and produced by Ed Humphries, and directed by John Kennedy. Auditions will be held on Sunday, November 20th at 6:00 pm and Monday, November 21st at 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street in Southbridge, MA. Entrance is on Park Street (around corner). You only need to attend one of the dates. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script and slight improv. One role (female) involves a little bit of acapella singing.

Performance dates are March 3, 4, 10, 11 and 12. Rehearsal schedule TBD but likely 2 nights a week. All actors must be vaccinated. There are roles for 2 men, ages 21-42, 1 man, age 45-60, and 1 man any age, and roles for 4 women ages 28-40 (one role must be able to sing), and 1 woman aged 18-25. For more detailed information on the characters, please send an e-mail to [email protected].

Synopsis: Ryan Coulton spent his adult life as a corporate drone; a career that took him far away from his true passion; writing. When he finds himself ‘displaced’ – another victim of a crumbling economy – Ryan’s wife encourages him to clear his mind of the arduous daily job search by reconnecting with his kids. His daily trips to the playground bring him into the orbit of ‘The Monkeybar Mafia’ – a collection of Stay-at-Home Moms bound together by their shared love of friends, family and a good Cosmo. Ryan soon develops a close friendship with one Mom in particular; a woman who shares his ‘regret’ at having left true talent behind for other pastures. As the two inspire each other to rekindle sparks of their own creative passions; a scandal forms that threatens to derail Ryan’s journey. The Monkeybar Mafia is a humorous and poignant look at joblessness, restlessness and the paths we choose and those we leave behind as we travel this road of life.
Traditional Thanksgiving Day Feast at The Duck & Avellino

A bountiful and festive dinner with all your favorites and some of ours too. Our prix-fixe Thanksgiving Day Menu includes a bakery basket, choice of soup or salad, entrée with sides, and choice of dessert—all for $42.95 per guest (plus tax & gratuity).

Choice of Entrée
Traditional Roast Turkey & Stuffing
King-Cut Prime Rib Dinner
Pecan Crusted Salmon
Pumpkin Sage Ravioli

View the full menu here. Make your reservation now by calling 508-347-2321.
Thanksgiving Day Buffet
at The Barn

Join us for Bountiful Thanksgiving Buffet including Hors d’oeuvres, Salad, Assorted Breads and Rolls, Carved Fresh Roast Turkey & Prime Rib of Beef, Cracker Crusted Cod, Chef’s Holiday Sides, and Scrumptious Dessert Selection.

Cost is $42.95 per guest and $22.95 per child ages 5–12 (plus tax & gratuity).

View the full menu here. Make your reservation now by calling 774-241-8450.
Thanksgiving Catering

Enjoy a complete Thanksgiving Dinner or choose from scrumptious salads, sides, sauces, and desserts to enjoy at home.
~Heating Instructions Provided~

See a full list of menu items available here.

To order, call the Café at 508-347-6800. Orders must be placed by 2pm Monday, Nov. 23. Pick up at Cedar Street Café Wednesday Nov. 24 from 7am–3pm.
Join us for a Traditional Publick House
Thanksgiving Dinner
Thursday, November 24, 2022
Seatings from 11:00am – 7:30pm
Adults $60.00 Children (3-12yrs) $22.00
Inclusive of Tax and Gratuity

Three-Course Plated Dinner
Maximum seating time allotted per each reservation
Advanced Payment Required
Call Monday through Friday between 9:00am – 6:00pm for reservations: (774) 304-1524

DINNER
Roasted Native Turkey with Gravy
Sausage-Cornbread Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes,
Butternut Squash Puree and Cranberry Sauce

With Starters, Vegetarian Dinner Options, Beverages and Desserts!

Country Folk Art Craft Show
November 25-26-27, 2022
Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center
366 Main St, Sturbridge, Ma 01566

Craft lovers will find a huge array of unique decorating needs from such themes as: Farmhouse Style, Primitive, Shabby Chic, Cottage, New Country, Vintage, Whimisical, Traditional and Fine Art. Some of our popular items are repurposed and upcycled treasures, handcrafted furniture, home and garden decor, jewelry and accessories, textiles, holiday decor, wearable art, handmade candles and soaps, quilts, paintings, framed art, florals, iron work, wood carvings, baskets, stained glass, wineries and many gourmet delights.

SHOW HOURS: Friday 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun 10am - 4pm
Tickets are available for online purchase. ($7)
Learn more, get your tickets:
Southbridge Garden Club Greens Sale pre-sale

SOUTHBRIDGE: The Southbridge Garden Club is geared up for its annual Greens Sale in December and right now you can pre-order one (or more!) of our beautiful, custom-made holiday wreaths. 
 
The traditional Red Bow Wreath has assorted greens, faux red berries and white tipped pine cones, topped with a broad red velvet bow. The Naturalistic Plaid Bow Wreath features abundant assorted greens, faux red berries and gilded yucca stems, topped with a large plaid bow. The Gilded Wreath includes break-proof sugar balls, white-tipped pine cones, and gilded yucca stems and twigs and is topped with a large double gold bow.
 
Each 22-inch Noble Fir wreath is $45. Quantities are limited so order now! Proceeds support scholarships, educational programs, and environmental projects of the Southbridge Garden Club.
 
To order, send your name, address, phone number and email address with your check to: Southbridge Garden Club, P.O. Box 912, Southbridge, MA 01550. Wreath Curbside pick-up takes place on Thursday Dec. 1, 10am-5pm or Friday Dec. 2, 5pm–7pm at the Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, 111 Main St (RT 131), Southbridge, MA.
 
Thanks for your continued support!!
PetSaver™ Pet CPR, First Aid & Care
Saturday, December 10, 2022 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

PetSaver™ Training: Premier 8-hour class including CPR techniques, first aid skills, dental care, senior care and health & wellness information for dogs and cats.

Additionally, the class includes our PetSaver 40-page handbook and upon successful completion, each participant will receive a certification card. Sometimes the unexpected happens… Will you be prepared to take action when it does?

Email Rob with questions and to register. Register online here.

Class Price: $135

Class Location:
89 Main St Suite 5
Ware, MA 01082 United States

Looking for more local events? Check out our Facebook Events page for even more from our neighbors and friends! Click here to visit!


Executive Committee

Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope

Cynthia Saucier, 1st Vice Chair
Country Bank

Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.



Board of Directors

Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group

Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union

Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp

Dan Friel
Old Sturbridge Village



Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center

Christina Hadis-Blackwell
The Center of Hope

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
46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Alexandra McNitt
Executive Director
Jack Starkey
Communications & Media