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Welcome to Crossroads NEWS!

You will find this issue packed with important news from our Members and friends, including all the details of our SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS AND WIN CONTEST which begins on Sunday. We are looking forward to networking around the bonfire at Salem Cross Inn on the 5th. The weather looks good, so give us a ring to reserve your spot! Events in this issue include Second Chance's DinnerLESS Auction, Venture Community Services Virtual Raffle and New Hope's Highlights of Hope Breakfast.

Crossroads is our Members' platform to share their latest news with fellow Chamber Members and our community. Enter your upcoming happenings on our Events calendar and email us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in the next issue!

SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS AND WIN!
Campaign and Contest Begins November 1!

The Chamber is proud to announce our SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS Campaign and Contest which kicks off on November 1 and runs through December 15, 2020. We will be encouraging folks to SHOP, DINE, & PURCHASE EXPERIENCES AND SERVICES at designated CMS Chamber Member businesses and incentivizing them to KEEP IT LOCAL with cash and prizes. Here's how it will work:

Shop at 6 different Chamber of Central Mass South businesses and enter a raffle for great prizes.
$500 Cash Grand Prize!
Gift Cards and other Prizes, too!

Thank you to our Members for donating these terrific raffle prizes!
A Dexter-Russell Gift Basket donated by Dexter-Russell
A $100 Table 3 Restaurant Gift Card donated by Webster First Federal Credit Union
A Gift Basket donated by the Harrington Auxiliary Gift Shop
A Bottle of Wine and $70 Gift Certificate to Brush-It-Off donated by Brush-It-Off Paint & Sip Bar
A $25 Gift Card to Kid Power Gymnastics donated by Kid Power Gymnastics
A Gift Card to Michael L. Wales Painting Company donated by Michael Wales
A Gift Card to Klem's donated by Klem's
A Wrapping Sterling Silver Bracelet donated by Lake Road Living

RULES:
1) Shop at any six Chamber businesses between Nov. 1, 2020-Dec. 15, 2020
2) Mark each business you shop and note the date/amount you spent (gift certificates included) on the entry form.
3) You must shop at 6 different businesses per entry
You may enter multiple times as long as you are making 6 different and original purchases per entry
4) Take a photo of you shopping at at least one of the businesses you marked and include with entry form for our use
By entering this raffle you agree to our use of the image and information you provide
5) Email a completed entry form and photo to info@cmschamber.org or drop off at the CMS Chamber office
at 46 Hall Rd., Sturbridge (open M-F 10-4), no later than noon on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020

Winners will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020
The contest entry form and official rules are available to download from the Chamber website
or directly from the link below.

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY, CO-WORKERS & EMPLOYEES!
THANK YOU FOR BEING A LOCAL HERO!


You can also pick up entry forms at these locations:
Alternatives for Health Herbal Apothecary, Cornerstone Bank (Sturbridge & Southbridge branches)
Hitchcock Free Academy, Hydrangea Home Décor, Kid Power Gymnastics, Klem's, Lake Road Living,
Sturbridge Coffee Roasters (Southbridge) & Sturbridge Pottery
SINCERE THANKS TO OUR 'SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS AND WIN' SPONSOR!
November Networking Bonfire
Thursday, November 5, 3:30-5:30PM
Salem Cross Inn, West Brookfield
260 West Main Street (Route 9) • West Brookfield, MA • 508-867-2345

NETWORKING CASH BAR PASSED LIGHT HORS D'OEUVRES
$15 PER PERSON

Meet us by the fire pit for a networking bonfire at the historic Salem Cross Inn
on the first Thursday after Daylight Savings Time ends!
Members, bring your own chair. You may also bring a small side table if you desire.
We will need to remain seated as standing and mingling is prohibited due to Covid.
Chairs can be placed 6 feet or more apart near the bonfire or in small groups.
Masks must be worn.
Park in the field near the fire pit.

If you would like to make a dinner reservation for after the bonfire, the Inn will be open!
Give a call to reserve at 508-867-2345.

Register today!
Give us a shout to reserve your spot at our November Networking Bonfire at the historic Salem Cross Inn in West Brookfield!
Reservations for the bonfire will be given on a first come, first served basis and attendance will be limited to 50 guests.
Guests must register and pay in advance ($15pp) for this event.

Call 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org

Thank you to our sponsor!
Call for a Free Estimate (413) 245-7368
Baker-Polito Administration Announces Partnerships for Recovery,
$774 Million Economic Recovery Plan
 
BOSTON — Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced a $774 million comprehensive plan to stabilize and grow the Massachusetts economy. The plan focuses on getting people back to work, supporting small businesses, fostering innovation, revitalizing downtowns and ensuring housing stability. Partnerships for Recovery begins today by directing $115 million in new funding to small businesses and Main Streets hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and for workforce training efforts. Additionally, the Administration is aligning multiple funding sources, both existing and proposed, to appropriately respond to the crisis.
 
Partnerships for Recovery supports five key recovery efforts:
 
  • Getting Massachusetts back to work
 
  • Supporting small businesses
 
  • Revitalizing downtowns
 
  • Supporting housing equity and stability
 
  • Fostering innovation
 
Governor Charlie Baker, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy, Labor and Workforce Secretary Rosalin Acosta, and Administration and Finance Secretary Michael J. Heffernan joined Joe Kriesberg, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations to announce the plan at the Gardner Auditorium.
 
“This plan represents a comprehensive strategy to get people back to work and to support the small businesses hit the hardest by the pandemic, putting the Commonwealth on a path to recovery,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “By leveraging existing tools and programs and implementing new ones this plan will allow us to make critical resources and assistance to those who need it most available now.” 
 
“While we continue to combat this pandemic, this plan takes an approach that addresses key needs of the businesses in downtowns and main streets, provides housing support for vulnerable families, and opens new doors for people seeking to return to work,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “While we acknowledge we still have a ways to go, this plan will help to jumpstart our innovation economy and position Massachusetts to be on a path for success.”
 
  • Putting $115 million to work right away for small businesses and workforce training, including more than $25 million to get people back to work;
 
  • Directing $323 million in existing capital programs as part of the response to continue doing more of what works;
 
  • Filing for $122 million through the Revised H.2 budget to supplement existing funding in support of struggling Main Street businesses and skill building for residents;
 
  • Steering $43 million in Federal, trust and other state funding toward our most critical needs; and
 
  • Committing $171 million to keep people safely housed during the pandemic.
 
Getting People Back to Work
In order to get people back to work, new investments are being made to build workforce skills, growing training programs and pathways, forging new partnerships between employers and workers, and supporting internet connectivity to facilitate remote work and online career advancement. The more than $25 million available now includes:
 
  • $10.4 million to engage Massachusetts employers by expanding workforce partnerships with large employers in target sectors to create aligned statewide training-employment pathways;
 
  • $9.2 million to subsidize internet for low-income populations, and to expand hot spots in unserved and underserved communities;
 
  • $3.2 million to modernize MassHire virtual pathways to assess and connect UI claimants to appropriate services and supports;
 
  • $2 million to bolster manufacturing training by purchasing a standardized virtual training program to increase workforce for the manufacturing sector; and
 
  • $300,000 to supplement $8.4 million toward Career Technical Institutes in H.2 to help close the skills gap for skilled technician jobs and align training to industry needs.
 
An additional $54 million is available to support workforce recovery efforts through existing programming such as the Skills Capital Grants program, the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund, and the Workforce Training Trust Fund.
 
Revised House 2 also proposes $17.9 million in workforce funding, including $8.4 million in funding to transform vocational high schools into Career Technical Institutes running three shifts per day. This initiative is designed to train 20,000 new workers over four years in skilled trades and technical fields including plumbing, HVAC, manufacturing, and robotics. This will consist of a combination of enrolling more high school students in high-impact vocational trade programs and expanding capacity for adults to earn industry-based credentials, aligned to apprenticeships and post-secondary degrees.
 
"These funds will provide critical re-employment services to our workforce, helping people make the transition from unemployment benefits to good paying jobs in some of the Commonwealth's key long term job growth sectors," said Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Rosalin Acosta.
 
Direct Support to Small Business and Main Street
To generate economic growth amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and support Main Streets across Massachusetts, the Administration is investing $322.8 million in direct support of small and diverse businesses and local communities. This funding includes grants (see details below) to the hardest hit small businesses, especially small businesses owned by women, minorities, veterans, or members of other underrepresented groups. These grant awards will allow small businesses to cover expenses such as rent, payroll, and utilities as they get back on their feet. Additional funding will support small businesses through hands-on and personalized technical assistance, including targeted support for women- and minority-owned businesses around digital and online technology as their business model pivots away from a brick-and-mortar location.
 
Many communities have seen their Main Streets and downtown districts hit particularly hard by the pandemic, and new funding aims to help cities and towns plan for short-term innovations and long-term recovery. A new $10 million round of the Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program will continue to help cities and towns quickly implement or expand improvements to sidewalks, curbs, streets, on-street parking spaces and off-street parking lots in support of public health, safe mobility, and renewed commerce in their communities. Separately, local recovery planning grants will soon be available to cities and towns to assist with long-term planning for their business districts. A total of $10 million is available for this program.
 
To support the museums and other cultural facilities that have faced a particularly challenging reality this year, but remain a cornerstone of what Massachusetts offers to visitors, these institutions will be eligible for $10 million in Cultural Facilities Operating Grants. This funding will help these organizations to make safety improvements and other upgrades to allow them to continue to offer their unique attractions and exhibits.
 
As part of this recovery plan, the Governor’s recently filed revised budget proposal recommends over $100 million in additional funding for economic recovery and development efforts, including $35 million for community development financial institutions (CDFI) grants and loans, and $15 million for matching grants for capital investments by businesses with 20 or fewer employees. Additionally, more than $115 million in existing capital through programs such as MassWorks, and those in the MassDevelopment portfolio (Brownfields Redevelopment Fund, Site Readiness Program, Transformative Development Initiative, and Collaborative Workspaces), will be leveraged in support of economic recovery. This recovery plan complements the Administration’s $275 million economic recovery package, which was announced in June.
 
Small Business and Main Street Highlights (new funding):
 
  • $50.8 million in Small Business Grants to help the hardest hit businesses;
 
  • $10 million to continue funding the Shared Streets and Spaces Program;
 
  • $10 million for local recovery planning grants to support cities and towns;
 
  • $10 million to support cultural facilities such as museums;
 
  • $8.3 million in small business technical assistance to help businesses access grant programs and loans, as well as help build business management skills, resilience, and other support in navigating pandemic impacts;
 
  • Including $2.3 million to provide personalized technical assistance to woman- and minority-owned businesses;
 
“Our current circumstances call for a plan with the size and scope to match the urgency we need to address the most pressing challenges we now face,” said Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Mike Kennealy. “By targeting vital resources toward these key areas, this strategy will allow us to lay a solid foundation for our path to recovery.”
 
“During this unprecedented public health emergency, the Baker-Polito Administration is continuing to invest significant resources to support recovery and growth initiatives for small businesses and Main Streets across Massachusetts,” said Secretary of Administration and Finance Michael J. Heffernan. “Through close coordination with federal, state, and local partners – including our Legislative colleagues – we are proud to put forth a plan that thoughtfully invests funds from multiple sources to equip employers with the tools, resources, and supports to help navigate the new COVID-19 landscape.”
           
“We greatly appreciate Governor Baker’s sense of urgency to move these grant dollars now, while also working with the Legislature to secure additional funds in the state budget and the economic development bill,” said Joseph Kriesberg, President of the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations and Board Member of the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation. “Small business owners have sacrificed to help keep all of us safe and healthy. This initiative is our opportunity to have their back.”
 
Additional Investments
In order to keep people safely in their homes during the pandemic and support small landlords with expenses, the Administration recently announced $171 million in support of the Eviction Diversion Initiative. This comprehensive strategy includes funding to help to cover housing costs such as rent and mortgage payments, invest in new programs around mediation and legal representation, and provide repaid rehousing when a tenant is evicted. Additionally, the Administration continues to invest in the Commonwealth’s stock of affordable rental housing with $121 million in direct subsidies.
 
Massachusetts has long been a hotbed of innovation and creativity in science and technology, and sectors such as the life sciences and advanced manufacturing are not only critical to the innovation economy, but also continue to contribute to the response to the coronavirus. To ensure we continue to lead in this space, $62 million in existing capital funding through the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, and MassVentures is available to support recovery and growth.
 
Small Business Grant Program Details
Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) is administering the Small Business Grants program, with $50.8 million available beginning today. Grant awards range between $25,000 – $75,000, and eligibility criteria and applications are available here.
 
As part of this grant program, preference is given to small businesses whose owners are women, minorities, veterans, members of other underrepresented groups, or focused on serving the Gateway Cities of Massachusetts, who have been unable to open and those most adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Preference is also given to applicants that have not been able to receive aid from other federal programs, including PPP and other relief related to COVID-19.
 
The program has two distinct funding “doors” based on business size, with different eligibility criteria, which is available online. Applicants must review the information to determine which program to proceed with applying.
My Local MA Campaign Update

Starting this week, MOTT has changed the campaign website URL to lovemylocalMA.com to reflect the next phase of the campaign, supporting engagement as we move from “find” to “love.” All traffic automatically redirects from the prior site.

Our Partnerships page has been updated to include over 350 listings.
 
Keep an eye out for new and updated toolkit assets and instructions for business owners and consumers, coming next week. These will include additional downloadable assets including customizable banners, posters, an email signature file, and social media templates.

Local business radio opportunities: Starting this week, local businesses can participate in a value-added-value opportunity through iHeart Radio stations. Businesses can visit supportlocalinmass.com to submit a recording for their chance to be featured on a local station this November or December. 2,380 promotional spots are available!

Campaign video shoots: Last week MOTT captured behind-the-scenes footage and the power of community connections when they filmed spots at 11 locally owned businesses across the state. These video advertisements will air on television and online starting in late November.
Join MOTT for the My Local MA workshop on November 2
 
MOTT and the Massachusetts Downtown Initiative will present a virtual “My Local MA” campaign workshop November 2, 10:00-11:30 am.
 
The workshop will provide an overview of the statewide campaign, and provide detailed examples for local involvement, focusing on hyperlocal personalization using the lovemylocalMA.com website and toolkit materials.
 
The workshop is open to all MA Regional Tourism Councils, Chambers, small business owners, regional planners, community development officers, and more!
 
Please register in advance for this meeting at
KEEP IT LOCAL!
REMEMBER YOUR MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
Click on the M2M logo to see many great offers from Members... for Members!
Like these...
10% off at B.T.'s Smokehouse
25% off any Paint Class at Brush It Off
10% off Any Purchase at Studio 20/20
$50 off your purchase of $500 or more/
$25 off your purchase of $250 or more at Morin Jewelers
...and many more!
bankHometown Supports Local Food Pantries with
17th Annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fundraiser
Annual Campaign Kicks off November 1
 
Oxford, Massachusetts, October 16, 2020 – Robert J. Morton, president and CEO of bankHometown, announced the November 1 start of the bank’s annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors fundraising drive for 2020 to help support local food pantries.

This marks the bank’s 17th year of hosting the program, which invites bank customers, employees, and members of the community to donate money toward food pantries throughout the month of November. All donations will be matched dollar for dollar by bankHometown and the total raised will be divided among participating food pantries across Massachusetts and Connecticut in the communities the bank serves.

In 2019, through contributions and matching donations, the campaign raised $26,000 and resulted in $2,000 contributions to participating food pantries.

The bank encourages donations of any amount, with contributions of as little as $1 to $5 helping to provide 10 to 50 meals. As an added incentive to give, the bank will offer those who donate the opportunity to win a $25 gift card at each of its 16 locations.    

Neighbors Helping Neighbors is a terrific example of how communities come together to help others in need,” said Morton. “bankHometown is proud to lead this annual giving tradition and thankful to our valued customers and employees who selflessly give each year.”

Those who wish to participate have until November 30 to make their donations. Checks should be made payable to “bankHometown Neighbors” and can be dropped off at any bankHometown branch or mailed to:

Mary C. Mulrenin
Executive Secretary
bankHometown
31 Sutton Avenue
Oxford, MA 01450
 
The food pantries that will be supported in 2020 include:

Massachusetts:
  • Athol Salvation Army Food Pantry
  • Auburn Youth and Family Services, Inc. Food Pantry
  • CARE Food Pantry - Clinton
  • Food Share - Southbridge, Charlton & Sturbridge
  • Friendly House Pantry, Worcester
  • Friends of the Millbury Seniors
  • Ginny’s Helping Hand, Inc. - Leominster
  • Oxford Ecumenical Food Shelf
  • Sutton Senior Center’s Michael A. Chizy Food Pantry
  • St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry - Webster

Connecticut:
  • Community Kitchens of Northeastern CT - Killingly
  • Daily Bread - Putnam
  • Friends of Assisi - Killingly
  • Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group (TEEG)

About bankHometown
Founded in 1889, bankHometown is headquartered in Oxford, Massachusetts, and has $1.2 billion in assets and 15 branches located throughout central Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. Through its sponsorship and charitable giving program, bankHometown and the Hometown Bank Community Foundation support non-profit organizations and causes throughout Worcester and Windham Counties. In 2019, the bank and foundation donated more than $328,000 to nearly 270 organizations. Over the last four years, the program has donated more than $1.1 million. For more information, visit bankhometown.com.
United Way of South Central Ma Kicks Off Annual Campaign
With $450,000 in Grants

Southbridge: Thursday morning the United Way of South Central Massachusetts (UWSCM) kicked off its annual appeal campaign via a virtual Zoom event. “Usually we hold a breakfast and invite our workplace campaign managers, corporate partners, member agencies and individual donors to a breakfast event to introduce the new campaign theme and video and to learn more about our programs. But due to Covid-19 restrictions, we all have to do things differently this year,” stated UWSCM Executive Director Mary O’Coin. The United Way of Webster & Dudley merged with the United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton in April creating the United Way of South Central Massachusetts. By combining the two regions, resources and programs were combined. The funds raised in the 2020 We are Stronger Together campaign will support the $435,000 in grants awarded to 28 local non-profit programs through the UWSCM Community Impact Fund. In addition, UWSCM has raised and distributed more than $15,000 in grants to help local food pantries impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, bringing its total recent grant awards and distributions to $450,000.

The UWSCM Community Impact Fund makes grants annually to programs that address the region’s most critical needs in the areas of health, education, and financial stability. The recent round of grants will support a wide variety of programs that provide services including housing and shelter, food and nutrition, early literacy resources, and youth engagement.

“We are honored to support these dedicated and mission-driven organizations, as the need for these critical services has never been greater,” says 2020 Campaign Chairman Jim Croteau. “We look forward to working together to strengthen our community during this unprecedented time.”

Several non-profits have received Community Impact Fund grants for multiple years, enabling them to build long-term partnerships with UWSCM. For example, both the Boys and Girls Club of Webster-Dudley and YMCA of Central MA Tri-Community Family Branch in Southbridge continued to receive funding for their services for families and children experiencing both daily and afterschool childcare needs.

“There is the rich history of support and partnership between the Tri-Community YMCA and the United Way of South Central MA,” says Christina Hadis-Blackwell, Branch Director of Tri-Community YMCA. “From childcare to teen programs, summer camp to family programming, the United Way and the YMCA Tri-Community Family Branch are committed to working together to make our community a place for families to learn, grow and thrive. We look forward to continuing our work together and ensuring the success of the region.”

The United Way of South Central Massachusetts serves the communities of Charlton, Dudley, Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton. To learn more about programs, view the new United Way video and donating to the United Way visit www.uwscm.org .
North Brookfield Savings Bank is Proud to Announce the Recent Promotion of Five Bank Employees
North Brookfield, MA – North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to announce the recent promotion of Bank employees, Meagan Brousseau, Joseph Ribeiro, Jessica Shimansky, Hayley Sprague, and Kyle Leonard, who have continuously displayed their commitment to the customers, communities, and the overall success of the Bank.

“We are so happy to announce these well-deserved promotions and to have Meagan, Joseph, Jessica, Hayley, and Kyle, as a part of the North Brookfield Savings Bank team,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO Donna Boulanger. “I know that as they continue to grow within the Bank their support and commitment to our communities and values shall continue as well.”
 
Meagan Brousseau, of East Brookfield, has been promoted to Branch Manager and will be based out of the Bank’s West Brookfield Branch location at 128 West Main Street. She previously held the role of Assistant Branch Manager with the Bank.

In her new role, Brousseau will be responsible for managing the day to day operations of the branch, overseeing the teller line, scheduling, account openings, and inputting loan applications. She has worked in banking for over 19 years and brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to customer service into her new position. Brousseau enjoys volunteering at many community events such as, are the Asparagus Festival in West Brookfield, the Apple Country Fair in Brookfield, and the East Brookfield Fire Department Meat Raffle.

“I am excited to continue building relationships with the wonderful customers that come to the West Brookfield branch,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank Branch Manager Meagan Brousseau, “I look forward to being able to continue to provide the best customer service possible for our customers and to continue to offer support to the local communities.”

Joseph Ribeiro, of Ludlow, has been promoted to the role of Assistant Branch Manager, IRA Specialist & Bank Security Officer. He will be primarily based out of the Bank’s North Brookfield branch at 9 Gilbert Street. He previously held the role of Supervisor, IRA Specialist & Bank Security Officer. Where his responsibilities included overseeing all of the Bank’s IRA accounts and any transactions processed through them, as well as opening and closing the branch, overseeing tellers and their work, and serving with customers on a day to day basis.

In his new role, Ribeiro will be responsible for all of his previous duties as well as processing account openings and assisting Branch Management. Ribeiro holds a Fundamentals of Banking Certificate from the New England College of Business and has extensive experience in customer-facing positions that included the handling and processing of monetary transactions in addition to his 3 years with the Bank.

“The biggest thing I am looking forward to is the experience and knowledge I will gain from my new responsibilities. The knowledge and experience will help me grow in my current position as well as any other positions I pursue,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank Assistant Branch Manager Joseph Ribeiro, “My main goals for this new position are to work toward becoming a Branch Manager, as well as, continuing to expand my knowledge regarding my IRA Specialist and Bank Security Officer roles.”

Jessica Shimansky, of Brookfield, has been promoted to the role of Assistant Branch Manager. She will primarily be based out of the Bank’s East Brookfield Branch at 100 West Main Street. She previously held the role of Supervisor where she was responsible for resetting online banking, customer check ordering, opening accounts, and opening or closing the branch.

In her new role, Shimansky will continue to be responsible for all of her previous duties as well as, assisting customers with any issues in banking, managing the branches daily needs, opening consumer and business accounts, reviewing business account folders for proper documentation, loan applications, and producing instant issue debit cards. Shimansky has over a decade of strong experience in customer service and administration in addition to her 5 years with the Bank.

“I am looking forward to continuing to grow and increase my knowledge of the banking field,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank Assistant Branch Manager Jessica Shimansky, “As I do, I hope to take on more loans that come into the branch and be able to better serves our customers. I am also eager to volunteer more in the community when we are able to do so again.”

Hayley Sprague, of Three Rivers, has been promoted to the role of Loan Servicing Representative. She previously held the role of Supervisor where she was responsible for ensuring excellent customer service with all transactions and working with customers to resolve any issues that may have come up in their banking experiences. She was also responsible in conjunction with the branch manager, for daily ATM and Vault balancing, cash ordering, and taking on consumer loans.

In her new role, Sprague will be responsible for the servicing loans in both filing hard copies and maintaining the files electronically, as well as, providing excellent customer service and embodying NBSB’s core values. Sprague holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Education from UMASS Amherst.

“I am excited to learn how everything works behind the scenes in the back office after being on the teller lines for the last year and a half as well as gaining a better understanding on the workings of servicing loans.,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank Loan Servicing Representative Hayley Sprague. “My new goals for this position are to learn as much as possible through trainings and my loan team members while providing excellent customer service for our customers.”

Kyle Leonard, of Spencer, has been promoted to the role of Assistant IT Manager. He previously held the role of IT Security Analyst I where he was responsible for Administering user access changes, security controls, configurations and providing user assistance with any login or password issue. As well as, reviewing daily security reports and findings and providing appropriate documentation on any reported issues or configuration changes.

In his new role, Leonard will be responsible for vulnerability and risk management, vendor management, quarterly access reviews, security awareness training, in addition to all of previous responsibilities. Leonard is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Information technology with a focus in IT Management and is expecting to graduate in December 2021. He has 5 years of previous experience in IT security and support with the U.S. Army and BJ’s Wholesale Club.

“I am looking forward to the new challenges and opportunities I am able to take on, looking for any way I can increase my current responsibilities to better help the IT department and the Bank as a whole,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank Assistant IT Manager Kyle Leonard, “A continuous goal for myself is to continue to adapt to the constant changes the IT field brings and allow myself to be an channel for those outside the department to help them understand a problem that may require ITs involvement. Another goal of mine is to become an educator of IT. I hope to provide great information in easy terms of understanding that non-IT members comprehend so they can learn from IT issues and help to prevent any issues in the future by being prepared.”
Venture Virtual Raffle 2020
Now - November 5

We are disappointed we won’t be able to see you in person at our popular Wine & Beer Tasting event this year, so in lieu of the live event, we will be hosting a virtual raffle so you can still:

Sip, Sample & Support…. from home!

Thank you for your continued support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Our agency and staff continue to adapt to the ever-changing situation and ensure all in our care are safe, healthy and engaged.

We have some great prizes available and you can take a chance to win by donating online: (3) for $25 or $10 each. Enter as many times as you would like!
The Prizes:

Winners will be drawn on Thursday, November 5th (original date of our Wine & Beer event) and will be notified via phone or email. Free delivery of home bar within 20 miles.
Pictured here, L to R: Public Safety Building Committee Member Lois Sugrue, Public Safety Building Committee Member Karen Spiewak, Public Safety Building Committee Co-Chair Stephen Coleman, Cornerstone Bank AVP, Senior Market Manager Sabrina Webb, Public Safety Building Committee Co-Chair Noreen Smith.

Cornerstone Bank Donates to the Charlton Public Safety Building Campaign

Worcester, MA— Cornerstone Bank is pleased to announce its recent donation of $2,500 to support the Charlton Public Safety Building Campaign.

The proposed Charlton Public Safety Building, to be built on Masonic Home Road next to the current police station, will become the headquarters for the police and the fire departments. The new building will provide Charlton with a 911 communications center for coordinated emergency response, emergency responder training, and the storage space for town-owned emergency and firefighting equipment.

“We are proud to support the town of Charlton,” stated Cornerstone Bank President & Treasurer and Chairman of the Bank’s Charitable Donations Committee Todd M. Tallman. “In an emergency, every second counts, and our community must have access to modern safety facilities to keep up with increasing calls for service.”

To learn more about the Charlton Public Safety Building Campaign, please visit: https://www.townofcharlton.net/.

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.
Pictured: Grand Finale Auction Items

Month-Long DinnerLESS Auction Enters Grand Finale
Second Chance’s Online Auction Helping Pets
 
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (October 23, 2020) – The end is drawing near for the Second Chance DinnerLESS Auction which means it’s time for supporters to start bidding on some great items normally reserved for the live auction finale.
 
"Year after year, there’s a group of supporters who donate items for the much-anticipated live auction because helping pets in need is so important to them,” said Second Chance development director Lindsay Doray. “While we’re so disappointed that we won’t be together as the auction paddles raise around the room due to COVID, the bidding in our online grand finale auction is just starting to get lively.” Doray is grateful for every bid in a year where pets need help more than ever.
 
“For years, Eunice Jones has donated a week’s stay at Big Sky Resort in Montana. This popular trip sleeps six in gorgeous condo accommodations. Making its third auction appearance is the Cannes for Rent donated by Second Chance volunteer Maria McDonnell featuring a seven-night stay for two in an adorable apartment in Cannes, France.” JetBlue has also once again donated two round trip domestic tickets.
 
For those staying closer to home, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office has donated two handcrafted solid wood Adirondack chairs that have been getting a lot of attention and there’s a sophisticated Vera Bradley set donated by longtime supporter, Klem’s.
 
For collectors, there’s a baseball signed by Brandon Workman donated by the Red Sox (when Workman was a pitcher for the Red Sox) and a 7-book collection signed by W. Bruce Cameron, author of the NY Times bestseller A Dog’s Purpose.
 
Brand new to the auction this year is a local restaurant gift card package valued at over $380 that was originally planned as a super raffle item. 
 
New items are still coming in and Doray encourages bidders to check back and see what’s new. The online auction continues through November 1st. The proceeds from every winning bid supports all the Second Chance programs that help pets in need.
 
Doray expressed gratitude to all who donated the item and to the sponsors for their support when the event was moved online. “The DinnerLESS Auction was made possible by the generous support of RE/MAX realtor Wendy Johnson in loving memory of Pam Crawford. Pam Crawford was a longtime supporter of Second Chance who devoted her life to her family and to helping people find a home. She will be greatly missed by all.”  
 
Interested supporters can visit www.secondchanceanimals.org for links to each block of auction items and they’ll also find this year’s DinnerLESS Auction video with a look back at the nonprofit’s work in 2019, an update on COVID-19 efforts along with behind the scenes footage and some adorable Second Chance alumni.
 
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. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
Follow Second Chance on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/secondchanceanimals
Follow Second Chance on Twitter:  https://twitter.com/secondchanceas
North Brookfield Savings Bank Hires Jeffry Kerr as Vice President, Marketing Director

North Brookfield, MA – North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to announce the recent hiring of Jeffry Kerr as Vice President, Marketing Director for North Brookfield Savings Bank.
 
“We are thrilled to have Jeff join our Team,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO Donna Boulanger, “We know his wealth of knowledge and experience will be a great asset to the Bank and our communities moving forward. His enthusiastic approach to marketing and the customer journey will benefit both the Bank and the community.”
 
In his role as Vice President, Marketing Director, Kerr will be responsible for managing the marketing department, maintaining the marketing budget, a creating strategic marketing plan and setting goals, and most importantly highlighting the value of North Brookfield Savings Bank to the communities that it serves.
 
Kerr, of East Longmeadow, most recently served as the Vice President of Marketing for PeoplesBank. Prior to that he held the position of Director of Agency Marketing at MassMutual Financial Group. In total he brings over 26 years of experience in marketing in the financial industry to North Brookfield Savings Bank.
 
Kerr earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from Mass College of Liberal Arts, is a candidate for Master’s in Education from American International College, and is a Certified Educator by the Massachusetts Department of Education.
 
Kerr is an active participant in the community, volunteering for such programs as Habitat for Humanity, the Read-a-loud program, and the Springfield school volunteers. He is looking forward to being involved in North Brookfield Savings Bank sponsored community events and volunteer efforts.
 
“I look forward to adding value to an organization that has contributed so much to the local communities,” said North Brookfield Savings Bank Vice President, Marketing Director, Jeffry Kerr. “It is a goal of mine to highlight the ongoing mission and values of North Brookfield Savings Bank of supporting our communities and customers throughout their financial journeys.”
 
Jeffry Kerr, Vice President, Marketing Director, can be reached directly by calling 508-637-7444 or by emailing jkerr@BankNBSB.com. For more information, contact the North Brookfield Savings Bank Business Center at 508-637-7500 or visit 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 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 in which it serves since 1854. North Brookfield Savings Bank is a 2018 Banking Choice 1st place award recipient in all categories including Overall Quality, Customer Service, Technology and Tools, and Community Contribution and 2019 for Community Contribution. All deposits are insured by the FDIC and the Depositors Insurance Fund. For additional information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
TLGV Awards More Than $22,000 in Grants
 
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) has awarded more than $22,000 in a new grant program designed to help non-profits build capacity during challenging times. As non-profits strive to advance their mission while not being able to offer their usual programs, events and opportunities, TLGV provided up to $1,500 for equipment, services and training to help organizations improve communication or provide alternative means of engaging the public.
 
“As we were learning how to adapt to a world where in-person programming was not possible, we realized many of our partners were struggling with the same issues,” said Lois Bruinooge, executive director. “We wanted to be as supportive as possible to help our fellow non-profits navigate these changing times.”
 
Grants were awarded to the following organizations:
 
  • Avalonia Land Conservancy in Mystic, CT: $1,500 to purchase social media software and computer equipment to provide Zoom meetings.
  • Chamberlin Mill in Woodstock, CT: $962 to purchase software and training to produce a digital newsletter for the Chamberlin Mill, Inc.
  • CliCk in Windham, CT: $1,064 for creation of an outdoor “open air” learning space in Willimantic.
  • Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution in Lebanon, CT: $853 to hire a videographer/marketing company to produce a video to promote the history of the Wadsworth Stable.
  • Eastern Connecticut Conservation District in Norwich, CT: $1,500 to purchase and train staff on a social media platform to enhance and coordinate their social media capabilities.
  • Franklin Historical Society/Ashbel Woodward Museum in Franklin, CT: $1,000 to upgrade a computer, purchase domain name for website, purchase archival storage, a photo light box and associated equipment and install countertop area for digitizing photos.
  • Girl Scouts of Connecticut in Lebanon, CT: $1,500 for equipment to enhance virtual learning at the environmental lab at Camp Laurel.
  • Hitchcock Free Academy in Brimfield, MA: $1,500 to purchase computers and video equipment and to improve internet capabilities to better serve their public by offering online training and computer classes.
  • Joshua's Tract Conservation and Historic Trust in Mansfield, CT: $500 for the purchase of equipment and software to increase their ability to film and promote their properties throughout the region.
  • Lebanon Historical Society in Lebanon, CT: $800 to install interpretive signage at various Lebanon historical buildings.
  • Mansfield Historical Society in Mansfield, CT: $750 to purchase a digital camera and equipment to expand their website and social media presence.
  • The Mill Museum in Willimantic, CT: $1,490 to develop and implement online educational programs to promote the region’s history.
  • Norwich Historical Society in Norwich, CT: $1,500 for the production of three videos to improve public awareness of Norwich history and increase NHS and Leffingwell House Museum's storytelling capabilities.
  • Opacum Land Trust in Sturbridge, MA: $1,500 to improve and expand remote communications through their website and other digital platforms to better promote their properties.
  • Our Bright Future in Charlton, MA: $1,048 to purchase a printer/scanner and video camera to reduce costs, improve their remote abilities and expand awareness of the organization. 
  • Pomfret Historical Society in Pomfret, CT: $750 for equipment to digitize images and documents for use on their website.
  • Windham ARTS in Windham, CT: $1,500 to upgrade their website and purchase video equipment, software and provide training to produce videos to promote local artists.
  • Windham County 4-H Foundation, Pomfret, CT: $1,500 for the purchase of equipment to offer virtual learning experiences. 
  • Windham Regional Chamber of Commerce, Inc. in Windham, CT: $1,500 to upgrade their website and purchase video equipment, software and provide training to produce videos for local businesses.
 
All grants were matched by at least 1:1 cash or in-kind contributions. Applications were accepted on a rolling basis. Non-profit 501(c) organizations with missions aligned with the vision and strategies of the management plan for The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor were eligible.
 
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. is a member- supported, non-profit organization working for you in the National Heritage Corridor. Together we can care for, enjoy and pass on The Last Green Valley!
Tallman to assume role of Cornerstone Bank CEO on January 1
 
Worcester, MA—Effective January 1, 2021, Cornerstone Bank President and Treasurer Todd Tallman will be appointed the Bank’s CEO. Tallman steps into the role as a banking veteran with over 20 years of experience.
 
“Knowing Todd as well as I do, I am fully confident he will serve as an outstanding CEO,” states K. Michael Robbins, who will retire as Cornerstone Bank CEO on December 31, 2020, but continue to serve as the Bank’s Chairman. “Todd’s management, leadership and professional skills—not to mention that he’s a fine, caring individual by nature—make him eminently qualified for this position.”
 
A Certified Public Accountant, Tallman began his career as an Audit Manager at KPMG. After joining Southbridge Savings Bank in 1998 as Chief Financial Officer, he served in increasingly senior positions until his promotion to President/CEO in 2014. Subsequently, in 2016, when Southbridge Savings Bank and SpencerBANK created a merger of equals to form Cornerstone Bank with assets totaling $1.3 billion, Tallman was named President and Treasurer.   
 
With a passion for supporting communities and enriching the lives of others, Tallman serves on the Boards of several nonprofit organizations—including Big Brothers Big Sisters of America—and is past President of the United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton.
 
“I can’t thank Mike [Robbins] and the Cornerstone Board of Directors enough for the trust and confidence they are placing in me. As the saying goes, Mike will be a very tough act to follow. I’m tremendously excited about helping further Cornerstone’s legacy as a financially sound, highly trusted community bank—and I will ensure that, as a team, we are in the best position possible to make that happen.”
Did you know...?
You can read the latest digital issue of Vocero Hispano on the News Posts Feed on the Chamber website. ISSUE 1597 - Digital Version - Free For Members
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com to get started.
UPCOMING EVENTS
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME
ends at 2:00 AM on Sunday, November 1
Enjoy the extra hour!
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

Developing a Strong Personal Brand on LinkedIn
November 3, 8:30-10-00am, Worcester Regional Chamber, Conference Room.
Free for Chamber members, $25 for non-members
Building a strong personal brand can have many benefits including career advancement, increased sales, enhanced networking and various other opportunities. As a brand ambassador for your company, a strong personal brand can also help drive new business for your organization by retaining customers, improving your ability attract new hires and deepening brand awareness.
During this hands-on session, we will dig deep into the most popular channel for personal business branding – LinkedIn. Attendees should come ready to work with a laptop, tablet or mobile device and be logged into their active LinkedIn profile.
Presenter: Shelley Regin, CFMP, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Country Bank

Business Succession Planning in Tough Times: Know your Options
November 10, 10:00-11:00am, Virtual via Zoom, FREE
Are you a business owner who was already thinking of retirement when Covid-19 hit? Or are you thinking of making a partial or full transition out of your business for the first time now, due to retirement, the pandemic, or other reasons?

2020 Worcester Women's Leadership Conference
Monday, November 16, 2020, 7:30am- 4:30pm
This event will be held virtually with the same great speakers and breakout sessions.
This one-day leadership development forum is presented by the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and features amazing keynote speakers, a variety of educational workshops, and a virtual marketplace. Now in its 11th year, the conference has grown to attract more than 800 attendees, exhibitors, and expert speakers on issues that most impact women, such as business empowerment and entrepreneurship, work/life balance, and career advancement. VISIT THE CONFERENCE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS & REGISTRATION


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 titles for more info and registration.

Monday | Nov 2 | 1:00 pm
In this webinar, learners will discover how to create a search-friendly website that drives user action and supports their goals. Whether launching a new website or sprucing up an old one, this workshop will help.

Tuesday | Nov 3 | 9:00 am
If your business isn’t on Instagram then you’re missing out on great marketing opportunities. On Instagram mobility is king. Join this 101 Instagram webinar and discover the simple steps to getting up and running quickly. Dale Shadbegian is leading a webinar that will help you to get started using Instagram for your business. You will get tips on what works for your profile, tips on how to build your strategy, how to keep track of what’s working, and much more.

Thursday | Nov 5 | 10:00 am
Are you considering entrepreneurship as a career option but want a proven business model to get to your goals more quickly and safer? Would you like to run a business of your own that will provide greater autonomy and independence, but are not sure how to find, or choose, the right business for you?

Thursday | Nov 5 | 1:00 pm
Developing strategies to coordinate E-Commerce with your website and social media platforms. Create marketing programs to drive clients from marketing channels to your E-Commerce platform for sales conversion.

Monday | Nov 9 | 1:00 pm
Putting it all together. Learn how to collect data from your social media platforms and develop an overall strategy to drive clients to your website.

Tuesday | Nov 10 | 11:00 am
Negotiation is a "must have" business skill. Join this important two-session webinar and discover the Keys to becoming a more successful negotiator while building better business relationships.

Wednesday | Nov 11 | 9:30 am
This workshop first addresses how to accomplish your goals using distance meeting technology. This workshop explores ways to foster audience interaction: encouraging and using participation and minimizing potential problems such as audience involvement, crowd control, and time management.

Thursday | Nov 12 | 9:00 am
Learn some of the basics of using QuickBooks Online. A sample business will be used to give instruction. Open the sample and follow along with the instructor

View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.


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

Nov 2 Basics of Starting Your Business (webinar)
Nov 2 Using Data to Drive Growth (Marketing Toolbox) (webinar)
Nov 3-5 QuickBooks Desktop for Beginners (webinar)
Nov 4 How to Become a Women-Owned Certified Business with SBA (webinar)
Nov 5 Global Marketing and Sales Series: Drive Inbound Global Sales (webinar)
Nov 5 E-Commerce Advanced (Marketing Toolbox) (webinar)
Nov 5 Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Business Fundamentals (webinar)
Nov 9 Attracting Clients to Your Website (Marketing Toolbox) (webinar)
Nov 10 Massachusetts Food Trust Program Information Session (webinar)
Nov 12 Global Marketing and Sales Series: Reach Global Markets Through Social Media and Creative Content Development (webinar)
Nov 12 Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Understanding Business Financials (webinar)

Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these and many more.


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:


COGGNO is the Chamber's 24/7 Training platform. Low cost and even free online courses are available for CMS Chamber Members.
Online Programs with Rita Schiano via Zoom

Resilience: The Key to Retirement Well-Being
Dates and Times: Friday, 10/30: 11:00 am, Friday, 11/13: 11:00 am, Friday, 11/13: 2:00 pm
Investment: $47
Having a satisfying and healthy retirement is a case study in resilience. This course looks at the six basic life areas and offers resilience-based strategies that make for retirement well-being. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Time Management
Dates and Times: Saturday, 10/31: 11:00 am, Wednesday, 11/11: 11:00 am, Wednesday, 11/11: 7:30 pm, Thursday, 12/10: 3:00 pm
Investment: $47
Time management is a big concern. Our work life and home life is filled with more and more duties and obligations and less and less time to get it all done. An effective time management strategy can help you stay on task, accomplish your work, reduce stress, and gain more time for yourself. In this 60-minute LIVE program you will learn practical strategies, tools, and techniques you can put into action immediately! MORE DETAILS AND REGISTRATION

Habitudes I: Exploring our habit formation, key decisions, and early influencers
Dates and Times: Wednesday, 11/4: 11:00 am, Wednesday, 11/4: 7:30 pm, Monday, 11/16: 11:00 am, Monday, 11/16: 7:30 pm
Investment: $59.95
Habits shape our lives far more than we realize— they are so strong, in fact, that they cause our brains to cling to them at the exclusion of all else, including common sense. And along the way we develop what I call Habitudes -- those persistent ways of thinking and acting that shape your personal narrative. The good news? Habitudes can be changed, if we understand how they work. So how do we change these habits that do not serve us? How do we make the shift towards positive thoughts and actions? By exploring, breaking down, and understanding the Habitude process. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Habitudes II: Creating Categorical Change
Dates and Times: Thursday, 11/5: 11:00 am, Thursday, 11/5: 7:30 pm, Saturday, 11/7: 11:00 am, Monday, 11/23: 11:00 am,
Monday, 11/23: 7:30 pm
Investment: $59.95
All human motivation can be understood as a desire to fill a basic human need. So if we want to direct our lives, we must understand what and how our basic human needs drive our thoughts and behavior. Yes, environment and events play a major role our mental and emotional development. And, as we learn in Habitudes I, habits shape our lives far more than we realize. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Embracing Change
Dates and times: Tuesday, 11/10: 11:00 am, Tuesday, 11/10: 7:30 pm
Investment: $59.95
Accepting and embracing change allows us to adapt and become more flexible, more resilient. And it is our capacity for resilience that enables us to deal with life's difficulties. Change can be transformative, allowing us to see what we are truly capable of doing and being. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

The Healing Power of Forgiveness
Dates and Times: Thursday, 11/12; 7:30 pm, Saturday 11/14; 11:00 am
Investment: $59.95
When I was young, I had no idea what forgiveness was truly about. Truth be told, I didn’t have any real clue about true forgiveness until I was in my early 50s, when I began writing the story about my father. Forgiveness is a gift that we give to ourselves. And now, in the LIVE online program, I want to share all that I learned with you. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Call Rita 774-230-5670
Visit Online: www.ritaschiano.com
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020
ELECTION DAY
VISIT MASS.GOV TO VIEW A SAMPLE BALLOT,
FIND YOUR POLLING PLACE, AND MORE.
Painting Class at Brush It Off
FALL
November 6, 6:30-9:00pm

Come paint this image in about 2 1/2 hours with step-by-step instruction along with our professional artist at Brush It Off. Original painting by Brush It Off LLC. 10" X 20" Canvas.
Price per seat: $35 includes 1 beverage.

Gals night out, family gatherings, partners, whatever your reason to get out for some fun, with easy painting techniques our professional artists will teach you while having a GREAT time! You might want to wear something you don't mind getting paint on (should it happen).

For your enjoyment, we offer a nice selection of wines, local cold beers, snacks and non- alcoholic beverages.

We are following all the Covid-19 regulations specified for our industry based on restaurants and running air purifiers.

Brush It Off Gift Certificates make fantastic gifts!!
Available online or stop by the studio to purchase.

Chamber Members! Use your Member2 Member Card and save!
Enter CHAMBER1 as the promo code when you sign up for a class.
Visit the website: www.brush-it-off.com.
Click here to reserve some FUN: brush-it-off.com/studio-calendar/
New Hope’s Virtual Highlights of Hope Breakfast
Tuesday, November 10th, 8:00 am to 9:30 am

Please join us for New Hope’s Virtual Highlights of Hope Breakfast on Tuesday, November 10th from 8:00 am to 9:30 am.
This year the event will be live streamed on Zoom.

Highlights of Hope is a wonderful opportunity for the community to join our efforts in raising awareness and creating lives free of violence and exploitation. The breakfast, normally held in May, will recognize community and business partners who have been integral to our past year’s work. We will present several awards, including our “Edith Palmer Award,” named after our founder, to a person who represents the spirit of Ms. Palmer.

The event will be emceed by Boston Radio Personality and Broadcast Media Coach Loren Petisce. Our guest speaker is Cindi Perla, who after losing her daughter Maddilyn Rose Burgess to domestic violence, founded the Maddilyn Rose Memorial Foundation to raise awareness, honor victims and bring hope to survivors of domestic violence. During the event we will also share stories of individuals who have become survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence.

Congratulations to this year’s award recipients:
Edith Palmer Award: Jasmine Rivas
Community Partner: Trinity Catholic Academy
Business Partner: Spier Family Foundation
Volunteer of the Year: Personal Best Karate
President's Award: Representative Elizabeth Poirier

Attendance is Free!
RSVP by emailing development@new-hope.org or call 508-226-4015 ext. 2106.
To become a sponsor of this event, please contact development@newhope.org
If you'd like to make a donation, please visit www.new-hope.org/donate-today

New Hope has been providing services in our community for 40 years, and in the last year supported over 7,000 survivors and provided Prevention Education and Outreach to over 32,000 folks.
Veteran's Day at Old Sturbridge Village
Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Times: The Village is open from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm

Cost: All active, veteran and retired members of the military and their families* receive free admission on Veterans Day. (*up to 6 people); For non-military guests, Veterans Day activities are included with standard daytime admission or Village membership; Please make sure to reserve/purchase tickets before arriving! See details below.

To celebrate Veterans Day, Old Sturbridge Village will present special activities celebrating the nation’s military history. Listen to fife and drum music, watch musket and cannon demonstrations, and see how American military uniforms have changed over the past 200 years.

Weather conditions could impact where and how certain activities take place.

Remember: Active duty military and veterans, and their families (up to 6 people) receive complimentary standard daytime admission, with an additional 25% off for others in the party! Those who wish to take advantage of this discount will need to email visitorcenter@osv.org or call 508-347-0213 in advance to reserve your entry with a Visitor Center staff member. Proof of eligibility must be presented upon arrival at the Visitor Center.

Hours:
October 13 – November 28
Open Friday – Sunday | 9:30 am to 4:00 pm

COMING UP NEXT MONTH!
Home of the Brave 5K
Saturday, November 14, 2020
5k Run/Walk Virtual Event

Please join the Sturbridge Special Events Committee and the Friends of the Sturbridge Seniors as they honor veterans and those currently serving at our 2nd Annual Home of the Brave 5K Run/Walk – Virtual for 2020.
 
All proceeds will be donated to Project New Hope and Veterans Inc.

Registration fee through 11/13: $20
Register by 10/31 to receive a race logo face mask
Race logo winter hats can be purchased without race registration: $12
 
Register, purchase a winter knit hat, or donate at: www.lightboxreg.com
Search: Home of the Brave 5k

Scan the QR Code:
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 & cats looking for a new home!
Let adoption help you find your next best friend.

Thankful for a Home!
Friday, November 20th from 2pm-4pm

Click here to RSVP on our FB!
The Small Business Direct Access Grant is
Free Money to help your business run more efficiently
A well-trained team is more engaged and more productive... leading to better, smarter results for your business.

The shift to remote working has been a learning experience for many of us. We had to change the way we communicate, work, present, meet and more. Chances are, you (and your staff) may need a little help to master them. The Direct Access Grant is for businesses with 100 or fewer employees that would like to learn new skills and run more efficiently. Many courses are based around the virtual work environment.

Businesses approved for this grant can take advantage of these workshops and many more! Here are some examples.

  • Communications for Clarity and Impact
  • Managing the Virtual Workplace
  • Employee Accountability
  • Presenting with Impact using Virtual Technology

Don't Delay. Workshops Begin on October 20!

How to Apply:


For assistance with the grant application or course registration please contact:
Christine McNally, cmcnally@qcc.mass.edu
Eileen Morgan, emorgan@qcc.mass.edu
Thanksgiving at Salem Cross Inn!

Thanksgiving 2020… it’ll be a bit different! But, we’ve been meeting and thinking and deliberating about how to go about providing a safe and welcoming place for you to continue your traditions of celebrating a day that brings family together. Reservations must be made by calling the Inn during office hours, Tuesday-Friday, 10-2.
We will be serving a traditional turkey dinner, as always.

If you can’t come see us on Thanksgiving, we’d love to see you another time! 
Our dining room hours are
Thursday - Saturday: 4:00 – 8:00
Sunday : 12:00 – 6:00
Look forward to seeing you soon!
508-867-2345
LIGHT UP
STURBRIDGE
A community decorating contest!
December 4th, 5th, 6th
December 11th, 12th, 13th
From 5:00-8:00pm
 
All Entry Forms are due by November 30th
Please Review Official Contest Rules and Get the Entry Form Online here.
 
Email Entry Forms and Questions:
 
A road map of participating addresses will be provided.
Judging will be done by the public.
VOTE ONLINE for the best display per category!
 
farm_sign_vegetables.jpg
LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

OCTOBER 31 IS THE FINAL SATURDAY FOR HITCHCOCK'S MARKET THIS YEAR!
HITCHCOCK ACADEMY
The Farmers' Market will be open every Saturday from 9 am - 2 pm through October 31.
 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)

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

Kevin Berube
North Brookfield Savings Bank

Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union

Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp

Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty


Steve Gardiner
Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center

Les Gardner
Les Gardner Photography

Nathan Hardt
Old Sturbridge Village

Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital

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