Welcome to Crossroads News!
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September has arrived, right on time, which means only three weeks of summer remain. We hope you’ve been enjoying it! Today is Election Day in Massachusetts. Make your voice heard. To check your registration status, find your polling place, view a sample ballot, and more visit Voting | Mass.gov.
Crossroads is your platform to share your latest news with your fellow Chamber Members and our community. Enter your upcoming happenings on our Events calendar for inclusion in the next issue. Thank you for emailing us your press releases, links and photos!
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Massachusetts Launches “My Local MA” Campaign to Drive Economic Activity
and Safely Support Small and Local Businesses
Office of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito
Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development
Governor's Press Office
BELMONT, August 25, 2020 — Today, Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito announced the launch of an effort to encourage residents of the Commonwealth to support their local economies by shopping at local Massachusetts businesses and attractions, safely – in person, online, and using curbside pickup or takeout. The Baker-Polito Administration’s “My Local MA” advertising campaign is kicking off this Friday in tandem with the Sales Tax-Free Weekend taking place August 29-30, and was developed as a response to the economic impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on Massachusetts local businesses and communities.
The intent of the campaign is to showcase Massachusetts’ vast array of businesses and attractions – from family owned-restaurants to artisan boutiques to museums – that are a critical part of the Commonwealth’s economy. From Stockbridge to Provincetown, our local retailers and restaurants are open for business, utilizing safe practices and, in many cases, for online shopping, curbside pickup or takeout and delivery.
The campaign, running through December, will include print, broadcast, billboard and digital ads, along with social media. The website, FindMyLocalMA.com, will feature resources for consumers and more information on the campaign.
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Supporting beloved local businesses also means acting responsibly. “Masking up” and practicing social distancing will be emphasized throughout the campaign to protect our quality of life and ensure that businesses can safely serve customers.
The Commonwealth’s small business community plays a vital role in the composition of the Massachusetts economy. According to the US Small Business Administration in their 2019 Small Business Profile, small businesses in Massachusetts employ approximately 1.5 million workers, accounting for approximately 45 percent of the Commonwealth’s total workforce. Through “My Local MA,” residents are encouraged to protect and preserve those elements that make Massachusetts unique.
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Stay Connected: JOIN a Committee
Looking for a way to stay connected to your Chamber? Consider joining one of the Chamber's committees and become an active member of our business community. It’s a great way to meet like-minded business leaders, develop business relationships and build your resume. Committees typically meet for an hour each month and work on projects designed to strengthen our membership and our community.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Role
- Organize and produce various educational opportunities on behalf of the membership, including seminars, legislative forums, and workshops
- Ensure members are aware of the educational opportunities available
PROMOTE COMMITTEE
Role
- Create opportunities for members to promote their business and cultivate relationships, including networking, the Annual Meeting, the Annual Clambake, events, and advertising
- The Tourism Committee is a subcommittee of this committee
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Role
- Attract new Members
- Retain existing Members
FINANCE AD HOC COMMITTEE
Role
- Prepare the annual budget
- Convene to address specific financial issue on an as needed basis
SCHOLARSHIP AD HOC COMMITTEE
Role
- Convene each April to review all scholarship applications and make a recommendation on recipients to the Chamber’s Board of Directors
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Would you be interested in serving on our 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 though we do have two vacancies with a shorter commitment. 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 by Wednesday, September 9, 2020.
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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Massachusetts STEP Grant Program
The application period is now open for the Massachusetts STEP Grant Program!
The STEP program is intended to help offset international business development and related costs for small businesses. Eligible businesses may apply for grants ranging from a minimum of $6,000 to a maximum of $12,000 per business to reimburse for costs associated with pre-approved projects, activities or services undertaken during the period October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2022. Click here for full details and requirements.
The Massachusetts Export Center will offer a free webinar about the Massachusetts STEP program on Wednesday, September 16 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Click here for further details and registration.
Application deadline is Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 p.m. There is no advantage for early applicants. We encourage you to participate on the September 16 webinar and compile a thoughtful, strategic application for the greatest chance of approval.
Click here to contact the Massachusetts Export Center with questions.
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Covid-19 Travel Order|Mass.gov
Are you hitting the road this weekend?
See the latest information from Mass.gov including the Massachusetts Travel Form, Lower-risk States, Quarantine Requirement and Testing Options, How to Quarantine, International Travel, and more.
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Second Chance Vet Hospitals Continue to Innovate
Nonprofit’s Vet Hospitals Find Creative Ways to Safely Restore Programs
NORTH BROOKFIELD, SPRINGFIELD, WORCESTER, MA (August 14, 2020) – Second Chance Animal Services is rising to the challenges presented by COVID-19, continuing to innovate for the health of Massachusetts pets. Last month the nonprofit’s three veterinary hospitals found a way to safely restore lifesaving vaccine clinics and put a plan in place to cut down on the significant backlog of pets waiting for spay/neuter surgery.
Second Chance had to put their popular weekly vaccine clinics on hold indefinitely in March to safeguard the health of pet owners and staff. In July, they slowly rolled out a new format where pet owners pre-register and arrive at their reserved time slot. “We thought this was a temporary fix, but pet owners loved the new format,” reports Second Chance Chief Operating Officer Amanda Normandin. “No more waiting in line, no more filling out paperwork while minding a pet, and so much less stress on the pets.”
The nonprofit’s low-cost spay/neuter program continues to face a backlog of pets waiting due to an almost 3-month suspension. The wait for cats is especially significant, so in July the North Brookfield location began scheduling catch up days, starting with a 50 male cat day. Second Chance surgeons are specially trained in high-volume spay/neuter, but typically see a mix of female cats and dogs each day resulting in extra time spent resetting between cats and dogs and male and female. Concentrating on a single surgery format allows veterinary staff to help more pets in one day.
Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato says she’s grateful to be able to restore these two important programs. “As the pandemic began to close down Massachusetts, we began to worry about a second health crisis. Vaccine clinics are instrumental in stopping the spread of rabies and parvo and suspending this program weighed heavily on my mind.” Blancato said she expects the backlog of pets waiting for the spay/neuter program to continue throughout the remainder of 2020. “There are still hundreds of applications awaiting scheduling at each of our locations. We are doing everything we can to get caught up and ask for continued patience.”
Pet owners interested in registering their pet for an upcoming vaccine clinic can visit secondchanceanimals.org or watch the Second Chance Animal Services Facebook for registration announcements. The spay/neuter SPOT application, which stands for Stop Pet Overpopulation Today, can also be found on the website. Second Chance is scheduling spay and neuter appointments in the order they were received, so new applicants may not receive a call until September or later. The vaccine clinics and spay/neuter program are available at all Second Chance Community Veterinary Hospitals with locations in North Brookfield, Springfield and Worcester. Full-service veterinary care is also available by appointment, and subsidized rates are available for qualified households.
PHOTO: A recent patient returning to their owner after being seen at Second Chance's North Brookfield Community Veterinary Hospital.
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, Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, 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.
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Pictured, L to R: Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer and Chairman of the Bank’s Charitable Donations Committee (CDC) Todd M. Tallman
and Old Sturbridge Village President and CEO James Donahue
Cornerstone Bank Donates to Old Sturbridge Village
Worcester, MA— Cornerstone Bank is pleased to announce its recent donation of $5,000 to Old Sturbridge Village. This donation will support OSV in various ways, including one of the most popular events of the year, the Village Trick or Treat.
Old Sturbridge Village provides a unique, historical atmosphere to our community. When you enter the Village, you are stepping into the largest outdoor history museum in the Northeast. It features costumed historians and more than forty original buildings depicting 1830s rural New England, including homes, a working farm, trade shops, and much more. OSV truly offers a unique experience for people of all ages.
“We are excited to support the Village as a President Business Partner,” stated Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer and Chairman of the Bank’s Charitable Donations Committee Todd M. Tallman. “They provide unique, one of a kind experiences to our community, and we are especially excited about sponsoring the Village Trick or Treat. It’s a fun time for kids to celebrate Halloween while exploring the Village.”
To learn more about all that the Village has to offer, including this year’s Village Trick or Treat, please visit osv.org.
About Cornerstone Bank:
Cornerstone Bank is an independent, mutual savings bank serving the residents, businesses, and communities throughout Central Massachusetts from offices in Charlton, Holden, Leicester, Rutland, Southbridge, Spencer, Sturbridge, Warren, Webster, and Worcester along with a Loan Center in Westborough. Deposits are insured in full by a combination of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Depositors Insurance Fund. The Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Equal Housing Lender, and SBA Preferred Lender. For more information, visit online at cornerstonebank.com, on Facebook, or call 800-939-9103.
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TLGV Announces New Board Officers and Members
At its recent Annual Meeting, held at Creaser Park in Coventry, members of The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) elected new officers and board members.
Joining Board Chairman Mike Nelson of Norwich, CT are Myra Ambrogi of Plainfield, CT as Vice Chairman; Lisa Hayden of Sturbridge, MA as Secretary, and Marty Nieski of Woodstock, CT as Treasurer of the Board of Directors.
Current board member Karyn DiBonaventura of Pomfret, CT was re-elected to a three-year term. DiBonaventura is owner of Longmeadow Automotive and a passionate nature photographer whose images are often featured in TLGV publications.
Wayde Schmidt of Pomfret, CT returns to the board of directors for a three-year term. Schmidt is an Associate Director at Raytheon Technologies Research Center, with a Ph.D. in physical and analytical chemistry and an M.B.A. in Management Technology and a TLGV Volunteer Ranger. Schmidt previously served on the board after a one-year hiatus due to term limits.
The TLGV Board also welcomes the following first-time board members for three-year terms:
Ann-Marie Aubrey of Killingly, CT is also the town’s Director of Planning and Development. Aubrey brings to the board years of land use planning and legal experience.
Kent Boudreau of Union, CT is a retired pilot who says The Last Green Valley really is that dark spot in the middle of the east coast’s urban sprawl and an important navigation marker for pilots. Boudreau is an avid hiker.
Sandra Gibson-Quigley of Sturbridge, MA, is a retired teacher with expertise in cultural history and extensive experience on municipal boards and committees.
Christopher Hadis of Oxford, MA has a public health and safety background and is an animal health inspector with the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture.
Courtney Squire of Pomfret, CT, is the owner of Unbound Glory Farm with extensive experience in the retail food market.
Joining the board for the first time and filling a two-year vacancy is Rick Canavan of Pomfret, CT, an environmental scientist with 25 years of experience, specializing in wetlands and water quality.
Joining the board for the first time and filling one-year vacancies are:
Kwasi Acheampong from Brimfield, MA, founder of Our Bright Future, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to empowering youth and developing bright leaders through robotics, sports and academic guidance.
Nicholas Adamopoulos from Webster, MA, a tax attorney who has focused his volunteer efforts on economic and community development.
Board Chairman Nelson said the new board brings an array of experience to help TLGV continue building partnerships and advocating for The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor.
“This is an exciting time for us as an organization and for the region,” Nelson said. “I am looking forward to what this board can accomplish.”
The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. The Last Green Valley, Inc. works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. Together we can care for it, enjoy it and pass it on!
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PPE Items Available
Oceans Promotions has completed the approval process with the State of Massachusetts to sell PPE items* to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The items include adult and child face masks, disposable latex free gloves, face shields, N95 masks, protection eye goggles, containment gowns, hand sanitizer gel and wipes. Most have FDA certifications and testing documentations.
Oceans Promotions is also working with a manufacturer that makes true HEPA (13) medical grade portable air purification systems that are currently being sold to towns, schools and offices around the country.
If you need to make a purchase, contact Christine today.
*PPE items are available including hand sanitizers, gloves, gowns, face masks and face shields. Most are FDA CERTIFIED and most testing documents are available.
Printed custom face masks are also available.
Oceans Promotions
508-340-2939
Offices in Massachusetts and Florida
State of Mass Contract OFF44 /Vendor Number VC0000532691
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Two Great Blogs - One Great Dog Product!
Did you know that approximately 50% of your customers are dog owners?
Did you know that Americans spent nearly 72 billion dollars on their dogs in 2018?
There are many good reasons to consider adding a CBD Tincture for dogs, and we outlined a bunch of them in two new blogs. The first, "CBD for Dogs? Yes! Don't forget our furry friends" outlines a bunch of reasons why you should consider selling a CBD tincture for dogs.
Finally, if you read through those and want to place an order for our Dog Tincture, please feel free to click here to get started!
High Purity Natural Products, 328 Main Street, Suite 3, Southbridge, MA 01550, United States, 508-450-8902
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ESCAPE THE PIKE IS OPEN!!
Escape the Pike has successfully reopened with our newest escape room game, "Son of the Zodiac". We now have three entirely different games to offer for your entertainment and mastery of skills: Podunk, our "mechanical" experience; Merlin's Vision, our "magical" experience; and Son of the Zodiac, our "maniacal" experience. You are invited to come play for your personal recreation or to contact us to set-up a private corporate team building experience.
We are now open from 11:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. every day. Since our re-opening, we ask for games to be booked a minimum of two hours in advance. Or please call (774) 241-0508 for information and to book.
View the "Son of the Zodiac" trailer on YouTube
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Virtual Photography Travelogue Program Now Available
Our Virtual Photography Travelogue program is narrated by our professional photographer Ron Rosenstock whom I represent through Sbrogna’s Artistic Promotions.
We offer many one-hour virtual programs for purchase. A few locations which might be of interest to your staff or to your residents in Senior Living are Italy, Morocco, Ireland, and Iceland/Greenland. Please click on the thumbnail to see a trailer for our Italy presentation!
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This will give you an idea of what you can expect if you should invite us to do a virtual program at your facility. If you’re interested, please check out our website at www.sbrognaart.com and/or email at linda@sbrognaart.com or call me 508-318-3267.
We are working hard to find ways to continue to inspire, educate, and show the beauty of our world to the community as we all continue to go through our current health crisis.
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Cruise for Critters Fundraiser Cancelled Due to COVID-19
Second Chance Plans Adoption Event and Virtual Vendor Fair
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (August 21, 2020) – Second Chance Animal Services has announced that the 2020 Cruise for Critters planned for September 19 at Westview Farms Creamery in Monson has been cancelled due to COVID-19. The late season car show and vendor fair, presented by Al Widlan’s Service Connection of Monson, has been held annually since 2013 to benefit animals in need. Event organizers plan to offer a virtual vendor fair to help continue the long tradition of support with local vendors and the Second Chance mobile adoption team is planning to be at Westview Farms Creamery on September 19 with adoptable pets.
Cruise for Critters founder Al Widlan is very disappointed. “This is our first cancellation since we began eight years ago.” Widlan and event organizers, who were closely monitoring the situation and adjusting plans to safely present the event, were left with little choice after event capacity restrictions were lowered in Massachusetts due to the pandemic.
Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato added “because pets need us now, more than ever, we tried very hard to make this event possible. Based upon the current restrictions in place, we could not risk the health and safety of visitors, car owners, vendors and volunteers that would be attending the event. We are grateful to Al and his team of volunteers and to the owners of Westview Farms Creamery for all their effort to try to make this event a reality. We hope this is all behind us when it comes time for the 2021 Cruise for Critters.”
Blancato encourages visitors to come out to Westview Farms Creamery on September 19th. “It’s an amazing destination for food and fall fun. Visitors that day can also meet an adoptable pet or two and we’ll be accepting donations.” She also encourages supporters to visit the Second Chance website or watch the Second Chance Facebook page to shop the virtual vendor fair. “Many of these vendors have been supporting Second Chance for years by participating in our events. With so many event cancellations this year, it’s been a tough year for them too.” Blancato notes that over 100 events, crucial to fundraising, have been cancelled this year for Second Chance.
The mobile adoption event is currently scheduled for 10 am to 3 pm on September 19th at Westview Farms Creamery, 109 East Hill Road, Monson. Interested adopters can visit www.secondchanceanimals.org for the most up-to-date information and see which pets will be attending. Vendors interested in participating in the virtual vendor fair will find more information on the Second Chance website’s Cruise for Critters page, which will showcase the virtual vendors.
PHOTO: Carl, a 4 year old hound mix currently waiting to be adopted at Second Chance.
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The Capstone Planning Group Team: Christopher J. Mallon, Program Manager; Jamey A. Mekal, Client Relations Associate;
Jason D. Main, SVP/Investment Services; John T. Jawor, VP/Investment Services
Worcester, MA — To provide the highest quality service possible, Cornerstone Bank is pleased to announce that SSB Investment Services has been rebranded as The Capstone Planning Group. This rebranding will not in any way affect existing accounts or require customer action.
Previously branded as SSB Investment Services, The Capstone Planning Group will offer an enhanced service model with two investor strategies: Private Client Services, with comprehensive, in-person financial guidance; and Capstone EDGE, designed for emerging investors.
“We’re very excited about the rebranding initiatives at The Capstone Planning Group,” stated Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer Todd M. Tallman. “They’ve added new options which will help an even wider range of clients.”
In a separate development, Christopher J. Mallon has been hired as Program Manager at The Capstone Planning Group. A LPL Investment Advisor Representative, with both Series 7 and 65 licenses and registrations held with LPL Financial, Mr. Mallon has over ten years’ experience partnering with financial advisors across the Midwest and Northeast. “I’m looking forward to meeting the clients here so I can understand their unique situations and goals, and help them pursue successful financial futures,” said Mr. Mallon.
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Cornerstone Bank and The Capstone Planning Group are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered Representatives of LPL offer products and services using the name The Capstone Planning Group, and may also be employees of Cornerstone Bank. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of Cornerstone Bank or The Capstone Planning Group. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by FDIC or Any Other Government Agency | Not Bank Guaranteed | Not Bank Deposits or Obligations | May Lose Value
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MAKE A RESERVATION TODAY: 508-867-2345
Main Dining Room Hours:
Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Sunday – 12 Noon to 6:00pm
Special COVID 19 Notes
- Reservations are required at this time by calling. If no answer, leave a message and we will return the call.
- Size of a party seated at a table cannot exceed 6 people.
- We are asking people to limit their time at the table to 90 minutes.
- Face masks will be required.
508-867-2345
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Brush It Off is OPEN!
Hold your next private party at the Brush It Off studio or outside function spaces. Brush It Off will shut down the studio just for you! 10 guest minimum at $35 per person, your choice of Canvas, Lighted Bottles, Ceramics or Glassware to paint with professional instruction.
Gift Certificates Deal!
GET $10 back for every $35 Gift Certificate purchased to paint at a later date of your choice.
OPEN FOR FUN! With air purifiers and following Covid-19 regulations. Paint here or take home kits are still available, you can now view and purchase them in the studio or on facebook to pay by phone and pick up. Call 774-241-3444.
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Second Chance Rising to the Challenges of 2020
Nonprofit Committed to Fighting for Pets in Need
PHOTO: Ethel (l) & Molly (r) are two pets currently at the Second Chance Adoption Center in East Brookfield.
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (August 28, 2020) – Second Chance Animal Services has risen to many challenges brought about by COVID-19 as the nonprofit’s shelter and community veterinary hospitals have remained open throughout the pandemic to provide essential services for pets. Now they are left with a major challenge – donations are down while the cost of caring for pets in need has gone up.
“On an early morning conference call in March, as news of the pandemic was growing more dire, a decision was made to do everything we could to remain open. We knew that pets would need us now more than ever,” recounts Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato. In the months that followed, Second Chance took on the challenges brought about by COVID-19, continuing to help homeless and at-risk pets to find loving homes and caring for the medical needs of pets in the communities they serve. “I am so incredibly proud of our staff for all they have accomplished during this crisis, I am astounded by their ingenuity in finding new ways to help pets while enhancing safety for all. Now Second Chance must tackle the financial challenge so we can continue to be there for pets.”
As a nonprofit, Second Chance relies on donations and grants to operate. Blancato notes that donations are down by over 40% this year. Over one hundred events, including major fundraisers, have been postponed or cancelled this year. These events provide critical funding for all the programs that help pets in need. “We know times are tough for many of our supporters, too. Every day, we’re all facing new challenges brought upon us by the pandemic. We’re not alone in sleepless nights of worry. One thing that’s carried me through is knowing we can continue to make a difference for pets in need.”
Second Chance had to limit volunteer activity due to state restrictions, resulting in increased costs to run some programs like the pet food pantry which distributes pet food to local food pantries. The food pantry has been a lifeline for pets with owners facing serious financial challenges according to Blancato. We’re helping more pantries than ever before with more food than ever before.
Second Chance remains committed to be there for all the pets in. They are still on track to help over 40,000 pets once again this year. “Since the crisis began, our veterinary hospitals have been seeing two to three times our normal caseload. So many pet owners are turning to Second Chance because other area veterinary programs have been forced to limit services or close altogether. And there are pet owners who have been financially impacted by the pandemic and need the help of our subsidized rates to save their seriously ill pets. We cannot let them down.”
Those able to help sustain all the programs that help pets in need in our community can make a donation at www.secondchanceanimals.org, directly on the Second Chance Animal Services Facebook page or by mail to Second Chance, 111 Young Road, East Brookfield, MA.
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Congratulations to Abed Hamid: 40 UNDER FORTY
Photo | Matthew Wright
Congratulations to Abed Hamid, Environmental health and safety leader at KARL STORZ Endovision,
for being selected to the Worcester Business Journal's 40 UNDER FORTY Class of 2020.
Hamid has decreased the company's annual industrial waste by 43 tons and overseen a 50% three-year reduction in occupational injury rates.
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Online Opportunities
Are you offering online learning opportunities, webinars, or podcasts? Please add your happenings, online or in-person, indoors or out, to our calendar or email Jack the pertinent info and we will be happy to share in the next CROSSROADS!
WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Breakfast Club
Thursday, Sep 3, 2020, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM on Zoom
Please join us for this event which features a speaking program, salutes to area businesses and a networking breakfast.
Webinar: Top 10 Best Practices for Successful Online Students
Tuesday Sep 8, 2020, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM on Zoom
After surveying hundreds of former online students, and facilitating many focus groups to determine the best practices of the most successful online students, Dr. Riordon has compiled a list of the Top Ten (10) Best Practices of Successful Online Students.
FREE Web Seminar Series: "Protect Your Business from Hackers"
Wednesday Sep 9, 2020, 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM EDT
Location: on-line, Fees/Admission: FREE
Determine the extent your business may be at risk to some of the most common cyber-attacks, especially business email compromise (BEC) and corresponding wire fraud. See actual examples of credential harvesting tools in action, including dark web scans, and the Social Engineering Toolkit (SET) for spear-phishing attacks. Leave informed with resources to better protect your business from hackers. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Seminar Series: Hiring Best Practices
Tuesday Sep 15, 2020, 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Location: Worcester Regional Chamber, George & Sybil Fuller Conference Room
311 Main Street, Suite 200, Worcester, MA 01608
Free for Chamber members, $25 for non-members
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. Click on the program title for more info and registration.
Tuesday, September 1, 2020 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM EDT
Online event.
Tuesday, September 8, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM EDT
Online event.
Wednesday, September 9, 2020 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM EDT
Online event.
Monday, September 14, 2020 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM EDT
Online event.
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
COGGNO is the Chamber's 24/7 Training platform. Low cost and even free online courses are available for CMS Chamber Members.
DEB K HYPNOSIS
Change is in the air! What would you like to change? Now taking in office clients as well as virtual. Call 508-579-6314.
To join Deb K Hypnosis private Facebook group for support and resources click here:
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Summer at Hitchcock Academy
Enjoy one more concert this season! September 2: The James Paul Band at 6:00 pm.
This year, the concerts are hosted by Green Acres and will take place at 66 Palmer Road, (Route 20) in Brimfield. Although the shutdown prompted by Covid-19 meant postponement, current Phase 3 guidelines mean the shows can go on. As in years past, concert goers are encouraged to bring bug spray. This year they are also asked to adhere to the Phase 3 guidelines regarding masks and social distancing. Please note Green Acres' expanded area provides plenty of room to spread out.
The Farmers' Market at Hitchcock is open every Saturday from 9 am - 2 pm.
Check the HFA website for the latest information on these and other upcoming classes and events or call 413 245-9977.
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Evening At The Village
Friday, September 4, 5:30-7:30
Enjoy being outside and spend a summer evening at the Village after our normal hours of operation! Stroll through our scenic campus, explore our gardens, take a horse-drawn wagon ride, and enjoy period music. Feel free to bring a picnic to enjoy on the Village common! Beer, wine, and limited snacks will also be available for purchase.
Due to current capacity limits, pre-registration is required. Register here.
Non-member Adults: $10
Member Adults: $8
Kids: Up to 3 kids per adult get in for free. Additional kids are $5 each.
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Small Business Solutions: Your Business During & Following COVID Recovery
Friday, September 11, 12:30pm-1:00pm
Free Virtual Seminar
Join Cornerstone Bank’s Charlton Branch AVP, Senior Market Manager, Sabrina Webb, and Virago Business Development & Consulting owner, Sarah Brown, for a seminar geared toward small businesses to help them navigate and adapt to this year’s challenges.
What we’ll discuss:
Recognize Yesterday
Local marketplace, established customer needs, traditional product or service
Redefine Today
Understand the new needs of your customers. Safety, value, expediency
Be Skilled for Tomorrow
Supporting the new consumer experience, direct vs. digital
Meeting details will be emailed to you on the morning of the event. If you have any questions, please contact Sabrina Webb at 508-248-7323.
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Guide to the Market hosted by Edward Jones with JP Morgan
Tuesday, September 15 at 6:00 PM
You are invited to join Trevor Nielsen and Jeff Burdick for an Edward Jones market update web conference with JP Morgan. All you need to participate is a computer and phone. During the event, Trevor and Jeff will give a brief presentation on current events in the market and economy.
Important Webinar Details
Date and time: Tuesday, September 15 at 6:00 PM
To attend this meeting, please click the following link.
If the link does not work, please copy and paste it into your computer's address bar.
Meeting ID: 918 5902 7722
Passcode: 085545
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
We hope you'll be able to join us. You are welcome to invite a friend.
Jeff Burdick and Trevor Nielsen, Financial Advisors
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Business Planning Class On Zoom
Develop a plan for success
Build Your Business Team
Get Advice from a Marketing Specialist
Discover Financing Opportunities
Learn how to project your income and expenses
$25 per Business
Your money will be returned if you attend all four sessions of the course.
Financial Assistance may be available. Preregistration is required.
Classes will be held on Zoom on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 pm
September 16 to October 7
To Learn more about this class, or to preregister, please call
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MOBILE ADOPTION UNIT is coming to Klem’s!
On the road to saving more lives! Be sure to stop by and say hi to some of the sweet dogs looking for a new home!
Let adoption help you find your next best friend.
1 Family allowed on board at a time. Masks required. Fall in love!
Friday, September 18th from 2pm-4pm
Click here to RSVP on our FB Page
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Craft Weekend 2020 at Old Sturbridge Village
September 19-20
At this celebration of artisans, the Village will showcase New England crafts and trades from the early 19th century. The Village’s craftspeople will showcase their skills by crafting more complicated or unique items that are not usually displayed at the Village. From textile work to woodworking, experience “handmade” from the past.
All of the artisans have a passion for the traditional elements of their trade and for bridging techniques between the past and the present as well as sharing their talents with visitors. This weekend will give guests the opportunity to take a step back from their busy lives to focus on the importance of these crafts and their relation to modern life. Visitors can observe how much effort and time goes into these hand-made pieces, and we hope that learning about these crafts will encourage them to think in innovative and creative ways.
New to this year's event is our Exhibition of Craft, which invites the public to enter objects that they have crafted to be displayed alongside those of other visitors and Village staff. This event is about bringing together the entire craft community touched by our museum and will not be judged.
See more and get tickets to Craft Weekend here.
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Friends of the Center of Hope
Golf Tournament 2020
September 29, 2020, 9:00 AM Start
Heritage Country Club, Charlton, MA
$400 Per Foursome
(includes: 18 holes of golf, cart, lunch and draft beverage)
Due to COVID-19 all golfers must be registered by September 18th.
To keep communication open we ask that 1 team member be the primary point of contact for his/her team.
Register your contact player under the 1st Golfer spot.
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Save the Date! Tastes of the Valley, Harvest Tour
October 8, 2020, 4:30-8:00pm at The Publick House
Tastes of the Valley showcases the talents of local farms, orchards, vintners, brewers and restaurants by pairing products grown, raised and created in The Last Green Valley's 35 towns with a variety of local chefs.
This year, we invite you to take a gourmet Harvest Tour of The Last Green Valley! Enjoy a farm-to-table, 3-course dinner from one of our area's best restaurants each week for the first four weeks of Walktober, the last date being held right here at The Publick House.
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LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS
HITCHCOCK ACADEMY
The Farmers' Market will be open every Saturday from 9 am - 2 pm through October 31.
SOUTHBRIDGE FARMERS MARKET AT BIG BUNNY MARKET
The Farmers Market at Big Bunny operates on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm through Columbus Day.
STURBRIDGE FARMERS MARKET ON THE COMMON
The Farmers Market on Sturbridge Common operates on Sundays from 9am to 1pm through October 11.
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WANTED
Norcom Mortgage is on the hunt for licensed and experienced Loan Officers.
Do you have 2+ years of MORTGAGE EXPERIENCE?
Do you have a solid knowledge of FHA, CONVENTIONAL & VA LOANS?
*WE ARE NOW OFFERING REVERSE MORTGAGE LENDING*
INTERESTED?
CONTACT KRISTEN WALTHER
774.241.0770
LEARN MORE BY VISITING US AT
Please share this information with your friends and colleagues who may have an interest!
Thank you!
This is not an offer to make a loan or to make a loan or any particular terms. All loan applicants must qualify under underwriting requirements and satisfy all contingencies of loan approval. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. NMLS ID #71655 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
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Executive Committee
Laurie Cashman, Chair
Yellow Iris Farm
Erika Travinski, 1st Vice Chair
The Center of Hope
Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
Board of Directors
Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group
Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank
Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union
Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp
Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty
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Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
Les Gardner
Les Gardner Photography
Nathan Hardt
Old Sturbridge Village
Leila Hurt
Country Bank
Lynn Mero
Southbridge Credit Union
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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