Welcome to September's Crossroads Events!
We hope you like to celebrate because here comes the season of festivals! Read all about Southbridge Autumnfest & Harrington Auxiliary’s Lucky Duck and Family Fun Day, AppleFest at Cook’s Orchard, Cruise For Critters, TourOpacum, The Second Annual Sturbridge Herbfest, Rapscallion’s Oktoberfest, the 31st Annual Harvest Festival, and more… all coming up soon! We also hope you will join us as we present a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to welcome our newest Member, Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness, tomorrow afternoon in Sturbridge! Get all the juicy details on fantastic local events, plus news from our Members and friends in this issue. Great to see many of you at last night's Fun at Five!
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: OCTOBER 1, 2021.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
Due to staff vacation and medical leave, the Chamber office will be open
Monday through Thursday from noon to 5:00pm now through October 18.
No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-247-2761 to be sure we are here.
CLOSED ON OCTOBER 11 FOR COLUMBUS DAY.
To keep everyone safe, we ask that you kindly wear a mask when visiting. Thank you!
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You're Invited!
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness
TOMORROW!
Thursday, September 16 at 4:00pm
71 Main Street (Rte 131), Sturbridge
Join the Chamber of Central Mass South, local dignitaries, our neighbors and guests as we offer a warm welcome to our community to our newest Member, Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness!
Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness, where the love of dance has no age limit, nor expiration date! Our mission is to create a love of dance by fostering creativity and artistry for all ages, from children to adults.
Our school aged program offers an array of programs which include, the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) technique for ballet, Latin dance, Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, and a Competition Group.
We are also proud to present FD&F After Dark, which is our adult program. This unique program gives adults the chance to learn social Ballroom/Latin, Adult Ballet, Total Barre Fitness and Yoga. These classes are designed specifically for adults who are looking to exercise and socialize in a fun way! Also to note, the Ballroom/Latin classes do not need a partner to join!
Come, witness the cutting of the official red ribbon, tour the studio, meet the staff, enjoy light refreshments and take a chance at cool raffle prizes! We hope to see you there!
Contact Fitzgerald Dance & Fitness by phone at 774-441-0232.
Visit online at
No charge! No RSVP necessary for the ceremony! Just come on by!
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FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
508-867-2345
Members, take 15% discount off of entrees.
Does not apply to holidays, special events, or ticket sales and cannot be combined with any other promotion.
Click on the M2M logo to see this and many more great offers from Members... for Members!
New Hires? Give us a ring if you need more M2M Cards to share this Chamber benefit with all of your employees.
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NEW BENEFIT: GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE
What do you need to know? We're taking questions!
The CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH is pleased to bring you a new member benefit putting you in the driver’s seat when it comes to your health insurance plan costs. You can find out more at our website, or contact us directly with questions by replying to this email.
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Brown Bag Seminars will return in 2021
Do you have a topic to present?
The Chamber's Education Committee is entertaining the idea of getting our Brown Bag Seminars going again. Typically 1-hour long, these seminars are intended to attract intimate audiences of 5-30 people.
Members, do you have a subject you would like to pose for an upcoming seminar? Presenting a Brown Bag Seminar is a great way to shine a spotlight on your business and the services you offer. You create the lesson plan, we do the rest including creating the invitations and promoting your seminar.
We anticipate offering the Brown Bag Seminars in-person by Fall 2021 but we would also be interested in offering seminars prior to the Fall in a virtual format. If you are interested in sharing your expertise with your fellow Chamber Members, in-person or virtually, while promoting yourself and your business, we would love to hear from you!
Just drop Alix a line with the topic you would like to present and your preferred month to get the ball rolling!
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Central Mass South Referral Group: Networking & Referrals
Chamber Members can now join for FREE!
The Central MA South Referral Group is the official networking and referrals group of CMS Chamber.
JOIN FOR FREE! Previously, Membership to the referral group was an additional fee on top of Chamber dues of $45 per quarter. We are pleased to announce that you can now join the group for FREE! Learn more by emailing CMS Referral Group member Rich Eichacker.
ABOUT CMSRG
The CMS Referral Group currently meets each Friday morning virtually. Meetings are designed to provide a venue for networking, enhance your public speaking skills, exchange of business referrals and marketing ideas, and guest speakers who share their knowledge of the latest developments in business. Comprised of local business owners and professionals, CMS Referral Group is committed to establishing and strengthening relationships with companies and community organizations in the Chamber’s service area through networking, education and trust.
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Care and Compassion Have No Schedule
Second Chance Garners Top Ratings Among Nonprofits
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (September 1, 2021) – Second Chance Animal Services’ work is drawing national recognition. The nonprofit recently received a Platinum rating from Guidestar, the highest rating offered by the world’s largest source of nonprofit information. Second Chance was also named a 2021 Top-Rated Nonprofit by GreatNonprofits, the leading website for community recommendations of charities and nonprofits. Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato says she’s honored by the recognition for the nonprofit she founded 22 years ago, but she gives much of the credit to the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly in the name of pets.
Day after day, a similar scene plays out. Second Chance veterinarians and vet techs go about their day, seeing pets for checkups and sick visits, or performing scheduled surgeries while reception staff greet pets and pet owners and schedule future appointments. They may have plans after work, even if it’s just to put their feet up and relax. When a phone call comes in of a very sick pet, all those plans change.
It was already mid-afternoon recently when Second Chance received a call about a dog that couldn’t pee due to a blockage of stones. An emergency facility had temporarily unblocked him, but this was just a temporary fix. Without immediate surgery the dog would suffer in pain, unable to pee, and die. Emergency hospitals are stretched to the limit, just like the owner’s budget. Second Chance was this dog’s only chance.
Suddenly those afterwork plans changed. Schedules were quickly shifted. A vet and two surgery techs agreed to extend their already long day to perform the surgery after their regular day ended.
The dog arrived late afternoon and was prepped for surgery. The surgery began and it didn’t take long to see that the dog was a lot sicker than originally thought. There weren’t just a few stones…there were hundreds of tiny stones. The expected one- to two-hour surgery continued for nearly five hours. Exhausted, the team plugged along. The vet carefully removed the stones while the surgery techs monitored the dog’s vital signs.
The hospital director had left for the day just as the surgery began, expecting the staff to be there just a couple of hours. When the surgery continued into the night, she left her family to provide support. She picked up snacks and Chinese food on the way back to the hospital. It was now after 9 PM and the surgery had to continue, there was no stopping. They had to be sure that no stone was left behind, risking another blockage.
The surgery finally ended a little after 10 PM. Now it was time to monitor the dog’s recovery. The staff could finally sit down and have something to eat. The dog recovered well, the family was ecstatic, and the weary team headed home just before midnight.
“This is not an isolated story. It happens more often than you think. This dog is alive today and with his family because three staff members gave up their time and their plans to save a life,” said Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato. “I am in awe of the work our staff does at our hospitals and adoption center every day, going above and beyond when necessary to help a pet in need if possible."
Last month, Second Chance announced plans to adjust their surgery schedule at their largest vet hospital in North Brookfield in response to the current emergency veterinary care crisis affecting pets in Massachusetts and across the country. The facility reduced their spay and neuter surgery capacity, allowing them to provide critical care and surgeries for an average of 25 pets every week. Low-cost spay and neuter services are still available at Second Chance vet hospitals in Springfield and Worcester.
PHOTO (L): Second Chance North Brookfield Community Veterinary Hospital surgical team.
PHOTO (R): Dr. Jackie Celmer visits with a pet who underwent an almost 5 hour surgery last month 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 and 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. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
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Harrington Auxiliary and Lucky Ducks
Save the date! The Harrington Auxiliary will hold its 29th annual Lucky Duck and Family Fun Day, in conjunction with Southbridge Business Partnership’s AutumnFest, on Saturday, September 18, 2021. The event takes place on the Southbridge Common from 10 am to 2 pm.
Lucky Duck tickets will be available for purchase that day. One duck is $5; a “6-quack” is $25; a flock of 13 ducks is $50. Awards include $1,000, $500, $300, $200 and $100 for first, second, third, fourth and fifth prize, respectively. The drawing takes place at 2 pm; winners do not have to be present.
To purchase tickets now or for more information, please call the Volunteer office at 508-765-6472.
Thanks to generous supporters of the Lucky Duck event in the past, the Auxiliary has been able to provide much-needed equipment, programs and support for Harrington Hospital. For example, the Auxiliary has conducted educational programs and projects that promote patient safety and has given new and/or updated equipment to several hospital departments.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 18, 2021 for the Harrington Auxiliary Lucky Duck and Family Fun Day.
The Harrington Auxiliary has been “Neighbors Helping Neighbors" since 1932.
Photo from 2019 Southbridge Business Partnership AutumnFest
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15th ANNUAL DAY OF CARING
The 15th Annual DAY OF CARING is Friday and Saturday, September 24 and 25th. This day helps to promote the value of volunteerism, increase the awareness of local non-profit agencies and schools, and demonstrate what people can accomplish when joining forces for the good of our community. An opportunity for over 100 volunteers from businesses, organizations and private citizens working on projects located at sites in all five towns that UWSCM serves. Friday volunteers will paint, weed, plant and install floors for non-profit agencies, churches and municipal sites. Saturday is a Food Drive for local food pantries
Volunteer spots are still available. Click here to register.
All volunteers receive a Day of Caring T-shirt sponsored by CORNERSTONE BANK.
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Eighth Annual Cruise for Critters Car Show to Feature Halloween Barktacular Games
Car show to benefit animals in need hosted by
Al Widlan’s Service Connection
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (September 9, 2021) – After a year’s delay, Second Chance Animal Services is gearing up for the eighth annual Cruise for Critters Car Show to be held at Westview Farms Creamery in Monson, Massachusetts. The event, which takes place on Saturday, September 18 from 10 am – 3 pm, will include games from the popular Halloween Barktacular fundraiser that had to be cancelled due to the uncertainty of Covid.
Second Chance Development Director Lindsay Doray says the organization is thrilled to be able to hold this great fall fundraising event. “We are looking forward to returning to Westview Farms Creamery. It’s a beautiful venue with homemade ice cream and there’s something for everyone. In addition to the car show, vendor fair, raffles, K9 demo and live music from Steel-N-Eazy, we’re bringing along the most popular of our Halloween Barktacular games.”
Westview Farms also has a corn maze, pumpkin picking, a petting zoo, playground, and a restaurant offering 30 handmade flavors of ice cream. Visitors can feel free to bring their dogs if they are leashed. If the event is rained out, it will take place on Sunday, September 25. The car show entry fee is $20, and all spectators enter for free. Visit secondchanceanimals.org/cruise for more information.
Doray hopes car enthusiasts, animal lovers and families looking for fun fall activities will all come out to take in the fun event. “With so many of our fundraisers cancelled or moved to virtual or hybrid in the past year, we are so excited to see our supporters again. So many pets are counting on us, and we can’t let them down.”
The Cruise for Critters Car Show was founded by Al Widlan, owner of a Service Connection which specializes in custom dual exhaust installation. Widlan’s Service Connection also offers repairs and services for classic and modern vehicles, plus flatbed towing.
PHOTO: Classic cars lined up for the 2019 Cruise for Critters with Westview Farm's corn maze in the background
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Get ready, get set, GO - to Tour Opacum!
Join us in our biggest event of the year on Sunday, September 19th
If you are planning to ride for the event, be sure to register by Thursday, September 16th at www.touropacum.org to save! You can still register afterward and at the event, the price just goes up!
We have routes for all ages and abilities that will take you along beautiful country roads (all paved & marked) and past properties that Opacum Land Trust has conserved. Serious riders can choose a challenging 50 or 100-mile ride through the hills of Brimfield and Monson, or you can enjoy a beautiful 26-mile loop, our new 10-mile route, or a family-friendly 2-mile ride. Check out the route maps here. Snacks and rest stops will be provided throughout your Tour.
Don't miss the after-ride party at the Brimfield Winery & Cidery with live music, craft beer from Rapscallion Brewery, wine from Brimfield Winery, food, and fun!
Proceeds from the ride will help Opacum Land Trust protect critical land, water, and wildlife, and provide outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Thank you to our amazing sponsors who make this all possible: Southbridge Credit Union, Rapscallion Brewery, Brimfield Winery & Cidery, Southbridge Bicycles, The Centered Place Yoga Studio, Maddies Dogs, and Globe Sign Co.
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Harrington Physician Services Welcomes Endocrinologist Sorin Herscovici, M.D.
Sturbridge, MA, September 13, 2021 – Sorin Herscovici M.D. has joined Harrington Physician Services’ Endocrinology and Diabetes Care practice in Sturbridge, providing specialized care to patients with all types of endocrine disorders and illnesses including diabetes management, obesity management, adrenal disorders, metabolic diseases, reproductive endocrinology, thyroid disease and more.
Dr. Herscovici has been practicing medicine for more than 30 years and has specialized in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism for more than 20 years. He has presented on the treatment of diabetes at international conferences and conducted research on the role of certain hormones in the endocrine response to fasting. He was also presented with New England Medical Center’s Oliver Smith Award for extraordinary service and care.
Dr. Herscovici is board certified in Internal Medicine and in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), and is a member of The Endocrine Society, the International Endocrine Society and the European Society for the Study of Diabetes.
He earned his Doctor of Medicine from University Carol Davila in Bucharest, Romania, and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at Metro-West Medical Center in Framingham followed by an Endocrinology Fellowship at Tufts Medical Center in Boston.
Dr. Herscovici joins Robert Cooper, MD and Jessica Locke, NP at the Endocrinology and Diabetes Care specialty practice located at 198 Charlton Road in Sturbridge. To learn more about endocrinology and diabetes care at Harrington, and to request an appointment, visit harringtonhospital.org or call (508) 347-7585.
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. Visit www.ummhealth.org/harrington.
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The Federated Church of Sturbridge & Fiskdale
Pumpkin Patch is Back!
STURBRIDGE, MA – Organizers at the Federated Church of Sturbridge and Fiskdale are busy putting the final touches on this year’s 4th Annual Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser, which is slated to open on Saturday, September 25 on the front lawn of the church at 8 Maple Street, Sturbridge.
According to committee chair Tom Mapplebeck, the annual fall event made its first appearance in 2018 as a fundraiser that benefits church operations and numerous regional ministries, with a significant benefit going to the Navajo Nation in Farmington, NM where Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers employs over 700 Native Americans during the harvest months of September and October. They also have a full time off-season NM staff that is comprised of entirely Native Americans. This has a positive and lasting impact on a region with 42% unemployment.
“Now our Pumpkin Patch has become so popular that residents from Sturbridge and surrounding towns look forward to the arrival of the tractor trailer truck that delivers the pumpkins and gourds from New Mexico and the activities that follow throughout the month of October,” Mapplebeck adds.
Once the pumpkins go on sale, volunteers from the Pumpkin Patch Committee and other church and community members will be on hand to assist with sales Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weather permitting. Masks may be required depending on current Massachusetts guidelines. Mapplebeck says the committee would welcome volunteers from other local community groups to help unload the initial order of pumpkins when they arrive at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 25. Additional volunteers are also needed to help with sales whenever the Pumpkin Patch is open to the public.
This year’s Pumpkin Patch Committee is also hoping to schedule an array of different pumpkin-inspired events and activities throughout the month of October, including a pumpkin carving demonstration by Roger Williams Park Jock-o-Lantern Spectacular carver Simone Germaine on Saturday, October 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and another demonstration the following day with local artist Heidi Curboy. “We’re proceeding a bit cautiously scheduling others at the moment,” says Mapplebeck. “We’re keeping a close watch on what’s happening with the Delta variant and the local healthcare scene. Naturally, we want to be sure we can conduct the event in as safe a manner as possible.” More scheduled events will be announced closer to the opening of this year’s Pumpkin Patch.
Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers began in 1974 in North Carolina with 3 acres of pumpkins and a partnership with one church. They agreed to let the church sell the pumpkins and they would share the proceeds. There was no contract, no legal proceedings…just a handshake and trust in each other. Richard and Janice Hamby have been growing pumpkins and adding partners ever since.
It's a wonderful partnership of trust. Over 1,000 churches and non-profit organizations, including the Federated Church of Sturbridge and Fiskdale, trust Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers to grow and deliver 1,200 acres of great, hardy pumpkins, and they, in turn, trust those organizations to be diligent in selling their pumpkins, honest in reporting their sales, and attentive to paying a percentage of sales toward all of the costs associated with growing, harvesting and shipping.
For additional updates, please go to the Sturbridge Federated Church Facebook page, visit the Church website at sturfed.org, or call the Church office at (774) 304-1021.
Photo Credit: Christine Bronson
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Comfort Inn & Suites
83 Hall Road, Sturbridge, MA
Looking to grow our team…
Comfort Inn & Suites is looking for ENERGETIC INDIVIDUALS WHO LOVE TO CLEAN AND HAVE ATTENTION TO DETAIL for our 77 room hotel. Must be able to work independently and complete their assignments. Pay is based on experience - starting at $13.50+. MUST BE ABLE TO WORK WEEKENDS (full time and part-time positions available). Potential to grow within the team. Looking for team-players. Immediate positions to fill. Please come in and fill out an application and meet with a manager.
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Jeff D. Helgerson Excavating & Septic Services is HIRING
**Rare Opportunity, with Amazing Benefits**
CDL Class A & B Drivers Wanted
Are you looking for a change and want to work, drive & haul locally with regular work hours?
Our servicing hours are Monday-Friday, 7AM-3:30PM, with OT available.
Helgerson's is a well-established and reputable Septic & Excavating Company that drives quality, integrity, superior performance & Teamwork. We are a Family-Owned Company servicing our Customers for over 25 years.
Benefits:
- 100% paid Medical Insurance premiums
- STD & Life Insurance
- Simple IRA, with matched contribution
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Uniforms
- On Call Incentive Pay
- Annual Bonus
- On Job Training
- Growth Opportunities
Requirements:
- Valid Class A or B license
- Current Medical Card
- Tankers Endorsement & Air Brakes
- Flexibility
- Experience with Septic Cleaning, Wastewater Hauling or Industrial Vacuum equipment is a plus. Mechanic background also a plus.
Competitive pay based on abilities & experience.
Interested applicants may direct questions and application requests to Jessica Pinto-Boniface at 508.248.7242.
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Nueva edición!
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com to get started.
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Learning & Networking Opportunities
You'll also find webinars, online workshops and courses from Worcester Chamber, SCORE and MSBDC. Most are FREE! Got something going on? Please add your happenings, online or in-person, indoors or out, to our calendar or email Jack the pertinent info and we will share in the next CROSSROADS!
WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
HR Roundtable: Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making – Frameworks for Strategy, Decision-Making and Execution
Wednesday, September 15, 2021, 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Life and business have been thrust into the world of VUCA … Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity. This session will introduce you to a Framework for Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making. Join this discussion for arriving at decisions that are aligned with your core ideology, strengths, and available resources.
No charge. For Chamber members in HR only. Zoom invitation will be sent to registered attendees only.
Business After Hours
Thursday, September 23, 2021, 5:00-7:30PM
AC Hotel Worcester, 125 Front Street. Worcester, MA 01608
Fees/Admission: Chamber Members: $20, Non-Chamber Members: $50
Business After Hours is an opportunity for you to network with other Chamber members and guests. Meet new contacts, develop new leads, and exchange ideas. Join us and hundreds of area professionals for a fun, informal networking event! This event is hosted with the Corridor 9 / 495 Regional Chamber of Commerce. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Seminar Series: The Best Way to Slow Global Warming? You Decide in This Climate Simulator
Thursday Sep 30, 2021, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
In Person: George & Sybil Fuller Conference Room, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce,
311 Main Street, Suite 200, Worcester, MA OR Zoom Link sent with registration
*Please be advised that all guests entering the Chamber offices will be required to wear a mask for the duration of their visit.*
Fees/Admission: Free for Chamber Members, $10 for Non Members
Within seconds, test the impact of your preferred solution to global warming in this real-time demonstration of a powerful climate simulator. Visually see the effect on future temperature, air pollution, cost of energy, greenhouse gas emissions and more.
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.
Excel Tips and Tricks - Put Excel Magic to Work for You
Wed | Sept 15 | 10 AM
Learn to mystify and amaze with Excel features and techniques you can use every day to work smarter and get more done.
Multiply Your Small Business Success with Public Speaking even online
Thurs | Sept 16 | 12 pm
How to leverage public speaking to get in front of your ideal clients & win them over once you’re on stage (virtual or in-person). Hint: The first sale is to yourself! REGISTER
The Effective Elevator Pitch
Mon | Sept 20 | 2 pm
As a business owner, you are always selling. You must have a concise message that tells prospective buyers what is your unique value proposition, what you do and how you can help them. In this workshop you will learn how to write an effective elevator pitch.
Selling for Owners and Non-Sales people
Wed | Sept 22 | 12 pm
The program breaks down the sales process into the essential preparation strategies and first impression tactics which improve sales confidence and results. REGISTER
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Sept 17 Financing Export Sales: Resources for Massachusetts Businesses globe
Sept 28 Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Business Fundamental
Sept 29 B2G Matchmaker Preparation
Sept 30 Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Understanding Business Financials
Sept 30 2021 Major Changes to the Export Administration Regulations globe
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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Cooking with Rico: Umbria
Avellino • Thursday, September 16 • 6:30pm
Umbrian cuisine is very rustic, often called “cucina povera,” or peasant cooking, as it's created with minimal ingredients and methods of preparation that rely heavily on local products such as grains, vegetables, fresh mountain herbs, black and white truffles, pork, cured meats, sausages, strangozzi and stringgozi pasta and of course olive oil, Umbria's liquid gold.
Chef Rico will demonstrate how Umbria cuisine combines quintessential Italian staples to offer an idyllic taste of a country known for its culinary pedigree.
As always, each course is accompanied by a specially chosen wine pairing. This event is $57 per person with wine pairings, or $47 without.* Tax and gratuity are not included. Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321
More Cooking with Rico dates:
October 14: Emilia-Romagna
November 18: Piemonte
December 16: Feast of The Seven Fishes
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Fore A Great Cause Golf Tournament
September 18, 2021
Heritage Country Club, Charlton, MA
Hitchcock Academy introduces their inaugural fundraiser: Fore A Great Cause Golf Tournament at Heritage Country Club in Charlton, Central Mass’ premier public course on Saturday, September 18 at 1 pm. Swing into action and register now! Cost is $120 for 18 holes of golf, cart, raffle, prizes, and the clubs infamous steak dinner. There are sponsorship opportunities for this tournament such as “hole sponsorships” for $100 as well opportunities at other levels.
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Southbridge AutumnFest 2021
Saturday, September 18, 2021, 10AM–5PM
Event by Southbridge Business Partnership
Following all state and local COVID guidelines, we are happy to bring back AutumnFest to the Southbridge Town Common. Watch the Facebook event page for future details.
Preliminary Agenda includes:
10AM-10:30AM: Opening Ceremony
10AM - 5PM: Food Vendors
10AM - 5PM: Local Crafters, Farmers Market, Informational Tables
10AM - 5PM: Entertainment
12PM - 5PM: Beer & Wine Tent
11:30AM-1:30PM: Live performance by "She's Busy"
2PM: Harrington Hospital Auxiliary Duck Pluck
3PM-5PM: Live performance by "The Island Castaways Band"
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Exhibit at Ruth Wells Center for the Arts
The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts also known as the Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts and Humanities, will host a live art exhibit September 18-October 17 at their gallery at 111 Main Street, Southbridge.
Gallery hours will vary, so call 508-764-3341 for information. The Ruth Wells Center is very excited to feature a variety of local artists after a Covid-induced period of isolation. The exhibit will include photos, oils, acrylic and watercolor pieces. Many will be offered for sale. The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts is located in the historic Ammidown house donated by Ruth Wells in 1978 to establish a culture corner in Southbridge. A well-attended Kids Arts Camp was held last month, a drawing class is held weekly, as well as an informal painting group. Call the Center for more information.
An ongoing art and craft sale may be found at the website, ruthwellscenter.com. The Ruth Wells Center facebook page offers current events and information, videos and photos, and new members are always welcome.
Do plan to visit the gallery – stroll over during Southbridge Autumnfest - the works displayed will bring joy and contemplation to a world that sorely needs beauty and peace. Call 508-764-3341 and your call will be returned in a timely fashion.
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TourOpacum is back! Sunday, September 19
Sponsored by Southbridge Credit Union
Join Opacum Land Trust on September 19th, 2021 for this spectacular scenic bike ride through several of our conservation properties in Brimfield, Sturbridge, Monson, and surrounding towns, and join us for the after-party at Brimfield Winery complete with wine, craft beer, live music, games, and more!
You’re going to have a great day while supporting a great cause - proceeds from the ride will help Opacum Land Trust protect critical land, water, and wildlife, and provide outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.
About Opacum Land Trust
Opacum Land Trust is a non-profit land conservation organization serving the south-central Massachusetts region. Our goal is to protect undeveloped land and open space for the benefit of the public and the protection of our environment.
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Gateway Players: Auditions for "Bethlehem's Inn"
Gateway Players Theatre, Inc. of Southbridge, will be holding auditions for "Bethlehem’s Inn”, by Joshua Powell, on Sunday, September 19th and Monday, September 20th at 6:00 pm in Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street, Southbridge. Entrance is on Park Street (around corner). The cast for this Holiday production includes five women age 20-60, and eight men age 20-60. Some roles may be doubled up. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Actors will be required to show proof of vaccination.
Performance dates are December 3, 4 & 5. Rehearsal days to be decided. Presented by permission through the author, Patricia Haddock is the Director, and Kathi Grenier is the Producer. For questions about auditions call 508-764-4531, and leave a message.
Synopsis: Marcus is an inn owner in Bethlehem but longs to make his business more profitable so he can move to Jerusalem and open an inn there. He views the current census as an opportunity needed to do that. His sister Becca, the manager Philip, and the hotel staff are all struggling to accept his new vision for the small inn and bring it to fruition. When Marcus denies two special guests a room at the inn, he begins to second guess his plans for the future.
Gateway Players Theatre, Inc. started in 1975 and was located on Main St, in the Arts Barn of the Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts and Humanities. For several years now, the group has been borrowing space at ESCC. This is the first scheduled audition since Covid hit and forced quarantine and other restrictions. We are very excited to be able to offer performing opportunities. For history and information, go to gatewayplayers.org or check the facebook page under Gateway Players Theatre.
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Business Dialogues: Child Care as the Backbone of the New Economy
Calling all Business Leaders! Registration is now live for our free Business Dialogue on Child Care as the Backbone of the New Economy.
SEPTEMBER 20, 1:00PM TO 2:30PM, Online
About this event
Engagement with businesses within the Commonwealth has revealed that child care is a leading concern for their employees who are parents - especially as companies adopt new policies and adapt approaches for their workforce.
The Department of Early Education and Care, in partnership with Commonwealth Corporation and the Business Coalition for Early Childhood, is hosting a series of Business Dialogues to better understand what innovative models in child care can meet new needs in the future of work.
This Business Dialogue series features leaders in the child care industry and is meant to inspire creative thinking for the future wellness of our youth. Join us to answer questions like:
- What are employers considering as they balance company and employees’ needs in the return to work?
- What impacts are anticipated for employees with young children?
- How can child care meet these changing needs?
See more on Eventbrite and register for this FREE ONLINE event at this link.
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Cedar Street Grille’s Global Tapas Dinners: Farmer’s Market
Tuesday, September 21, 2021 • 5:30pm
Join the Cedar Street team and Chef Rico for a multi-course dinner, highlighting ingredients with the distinctive flavors that only this special season can bring. Chef Rico will be heading out to the area’s best farmer’s markets to source locally grown or raised treasures from in our own community, for a true “farm-to-table” experience.
Make your reservations early because we expect this dinner to sell out quickly. Pricing for this dinner is $65* per person and includes a special autumn cocktail, wine, or beer. The price does not include tax or gratuity. Please call the restaurant directly at 508-347-5800 for reservations. Doors open at 5:30pm and dinner begins promptly at 6:30pm.
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Reprogram Your Weight With Hypnosis!
Wednesday, Sept 22, 6:00pm-8:00pm on Zoom: $147
Deb K Hypnosis
(if you cannot make it live there is a recording available when you sign up)
Are you ready to get back on your healthy path?
With working from home or other changes over the last 18 months I am hearing from people that they feel out of control with eating habits. I have develop a group hypnosis workshop for healthy eating! This could be for you!
This 2 hour Zoom workshop includes:
- 4 weeks Facebook private support group.
- Additional audio recording to listen to reinforce the change.
- Email support.
What will be covered?
- Emotion Eating and the 3 B’s
- The Identity Shift
- The Aversion
- Emotional Clearing Trauma Release
- Stepping into Self-Love and Forgiveness
- Self-Hypnosis
- Bonus: Breakthrough Protocol and Window Eating, this will be posted in the private Facebook group.
Find a private and quiet area in your own home for this zoom workshop. We will be doing hypnosis throughout the workshop and learn tools to keep you on your healthy path.
If you would like the discount coupon, contact me immediately! First 10 people to sign up will receive coupon and $17 off.
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AppleFest at Cook's Orchard, Brimfield
September 25 & 26
Fall is the time of year when the fun really starts at Cook's Farm Orchard. Pick-your-own apples and enjoy the crisp air, sun-warmed fruit, and the sights & scents of autumn in the orchard.
Cider, Apple Pies
Fire Engines
Family Fun, Wagon Rides
Baked Goods, Face Painting, Live Music!
Don't forget to stop by the Bakery for Apple Pies, Pumpkin Pies, Brownies, Jams and Jellies, Fruit Preserves and Mini Pies! Whether you're ordering pies, or just stopping in for a quick snack, the staff is always friendly and ready to serve. Call for hours and more info. (413) 245-3241. See more from Cook's Orchard on facebook.
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Community Shred-It Day
Date: Saturday, September 25, 2021
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Locations: Southbridge Credit Union’s Main Office and Hobbs Brook Branch
Protect your identity and bring your personal documents to our FREE Community Shred-It Day to safely be destroyed! Shredding is a quick and convenient way to dispose of your information in a manner that provides added security against identity theft – and it’s great for the environment, as they are recycled. Stop by with your documents and have them shredded on site.
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Sturbridge to host National Public Lands Day Event
Sturbridge: The Sturbridge Trail Committee in partnership with the Friends of Sturbridge Trails and The Last Green Valley, are hosting a special National Public Lands Day/Walktober event on Sunday Sept 26, 2021, with the first walk at 6:30 AM, YES! 6:30 AM. (see below event schedule) .
This is the first time in several years that Sturbridge Trail Committee has held a National Public Lands Day/Walktober event, celebrating all that is good about preserving and enjoying our public lands. All of the day’s activities will take place at the #10 Old Sturbridge Village Rd. trail head parking lot. Check in station with trail maps, copies of the Sturbridge Trail guide and light refreshments will be available.
Sturbridge National Public Lands Day/Walktober events:
- Photo Walk, led by Wally Hersey, 6:30 AM (goal is to capture some rising/early sun photos) Learn from a local photographer how to capture the sun & use light in your photos.
- Trail Run Led by Jen Scherer at 7 AM approx. a 2-mile run, wide trails, easy hills.
- Forestry Walk led by Kevin Scherer at 8:30 AM Learn about our native trees and some nonnatives that can grow in Sturbridge and explore what an “old growth” tree area looks like. Hike is about 1 mile long, easy walking,
- Yoga on the Trail program led by Jen Songer, 9 AM Join Jen on a short trail walk to the field for a yoga exercise class, Bring your mat. Hike less than 1 mile.
- Kids Mt Bike Ride led by Darcy Foley at 10 AM Darcy will lead first time, non-experienced kids (and adults!) on an easy 2–3-mile trail ride. Bike Helmets required. A bike tool station will be available for last minute tune-ups.
- Teen Mt Bike trail ride led by Luke Goodwin at 10:15 am for teens and more experienced mt bike riders, join Luke for a 4–5-mile trail ride on slightly more challenging terrain. Bike helmets required. A bike tool station will be available for last minute tune-ups.
This is a family friendly event, strollers, well behaved dogs on a 6 ft. leash are welcome, Bring your bug spray, (Mosquitos & Ticks) mask, and water bottle. Event will cancel if heavy rain.
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Chef Rico's Patio Dinners
at The Collection at Wight Farm
420 Main Street, Sturbridge
September 29: Steak House Traditions
$65 per person*
Chef Rico Giovanello is hosting this multi-course patio dinner to be savored in the open air on the beautiful grounds of The Collection at Wight Farm. Reservations are required, please call Kate at 774-241-8450. In the event of rain, the dinners will he held indoors at the Barn or Café. *Beer and wine will be available at an additional cost. Pricing does not include tax or gratuity.
The Collection at Wight Farm | 420 Main Street | Sturbridge, MA 01518
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The Second Annual Sturbridge Herbfest
Saturday, October 2, 2021, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Sturbridge Senior Center
480 Main Street (Rte. 20), Fiskdale, MA
This Herbfest is a brainchild of three local herbalists: Salli Greene, Jo Anne Grubert, and Chris Haller. There are very few herbal conferences nationally and none in this area. This can make it difficult for herbalists, young and old, male and female, to gain more education in a conference setting. Sturbridge, because it is centrally located, is an ideal location and is expected that the Herbfest will be an annual event.
There will also be craft, jewelry, and product vendors set up on the lawn of the Sturbridge Senior Center.
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Phantoms and Fire at Old Sturbridge Village
Wednesday-Sunday, October 13 - 31
Times: Phantoms and Fire runs 5:00 - 8:30 pm
Tickets on sale now! Buy before the end of September and SAVE!
Explore the museum after hours where you will find spooky delights, from bats and bonfires to cauldrons and candy, from ghosts and guitars to horror and spooky drama! Take your entire family, as there is something for every age around every corner. Pre-registration is required; purchase tickets here.
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IT'S BACK! SAVE THE DATES!
The 31st Annual Harvest Festival
On the Sturbridge Town Common & The Publick House
October 16 & 17, 2021
Crafters, Specialty Food Trucks, Live Music & Magic!
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Salem Cross Inn is OPEN Thursday through Sunday!
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FIREPLACE FEASTS RETURN IN NOVEMBER!
Main Dining Room Hours:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 4 – 8pm
Sunday Noon – 5pm
We are currently looking to fill Server, Bartender, Bussers & Dishwasher positions. Click here to apply.
for the latest updates.
508-867-2345
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Looking for more local events? Check out our Facebook Events page for even more from our neighbors and friends! Click here to visit!
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Executive Committee
Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope
Laurie Cashman, Immediate Past Chair
Yellow Iris Farm
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
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Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
Christina Hadis-Blackwell
Tri-Community YMCA
Nathan Hardt
Old Sturbridge Village
Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital
Anthony Marini
BankHometown
Trevor Nielsen
Edward Jones
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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