HAPPY APRIL! Spring is busting out all over! We hope you are enjoying the season so far. This issue of Crossroads includes news and events from our Members and friends. Read on for the status of the May Brimfield Shows, a call-out for Brown Bag Seminar topics and presenters, local trails cleanup days, ideas for Easter and Spring Vacation Week, and many more! Find out which of your favorite local destinations are re-opening for in-person dining and activities this month. FYI: Today is the deadline for submitting applications for the 2021 CMS Chamber Scholarships.
Crossroads is our Members' platform to share their latest news with fellow Chamber Members and our community. Thank you for entering your upcoming happenings on our Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in Crossroads. NEXT ISSUE: APRIL 15, 2021.
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
The Chamber office is open by appointment only.
Please give us a ring at 508-347-2761 if you will be visiting.
Masks must be worn.
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Important announcement about May from the Brimfield Antique Shows
Even though the State and the Board of Health is allowing the show, the following shows are opting out of a May show because it would be impossible to conduct a successful show for either our vendors or our shoppers under the current regulations and instead we will continue to work with the Town and the Commonwealth toward a safer show in July and September. The health and well-being of our Brimfield Show community and that of the Town of Brimfield is our utmost priority and as much as we want to get back to the fields, it is not feasible under the current conditions.
SHOW FIELDS NOT OPENING FOR MAY SHOWS
Hertans, Central Park, Stephen’s Place, Quaker Acres, Heart of the Mart, May’s, Mahogany Ridge, Green Acres, New England Motel, Collin's Apple Barn, Francesco's, Dealer’s Choice, Midway, Brimfield Acres North, Shelton's, Sturtevant's
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LAST CHANCE: 2021 CMS Chamber Scholarships
APPLICATIONS ARE DUE TODAY!
The Chamber of Central Mass South typically awards three $1000 scholarships per year. Scholarships are disbursed directly to the student upon presentation of grades from first semester completed after the award is announced and a minimum 3.0 GPA attained.
Students must be a resident or student within the towns served by the Chamber of Central Mass South. (Southbridge, Sturbridge, Charlton, Spencer, the Brookfields, Warren, Wales, Holland and Brimfield.) For information call 508-347-2761.
The Chamber does not discriminate against an applicant because of race, color, sex/gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness.
Please return the completed application, transcript, recommendations and student essay
by April 1, 2021 to:
Scholarship Committee
Chamber of Central Mass South
46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA, 01566
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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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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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MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!
508-347-2111
10% off on Bulk Products: Herbs and Teas
Click on the M2M logo to see this and many more great offers from Members... for Members!
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Second Chance to Host Hybrid Dinner Auction
to Help Pets in Need
Attendees Can Choose from In-Person or To-Go Dining
EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (March 15, 2021) – Tickets are now on sale for Second Chance Animal Services’ 22nd Annual Dinner Auction. The fundraiser, to be held May 15th, will give attendees the option to pick-up their meal in advance and join the festivities online or attend the event in person that evening at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center. Either way, supporters will be helping pets in need while enjoying a delicious meal and bidding on the opening block of auction items.
Development Director Lindsay Doray is excited to offer the option for a limited number of supporters to attend in person. “Earlier this year we renamed the event Fetch! Sit! Stay! – meaning supporters would fetch their meal, sit down at home to enjoy the meal and stay tuned for the kick-off of the online auction. When we learned that state restrictions would be easing, we immediately reached out to Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center to see what we could do. Together we came up with the hybrid plan to give supporters a choice to participate that made them comfortable.”
Second Chance is now accepting sponsorships and item donations for the dinner auction. Doray is grateful to the many sponsors who have already stepped up to support pets, including RE/MAX realtor Wendy Johnson who was also last year’s major sponsor.
Doray shared a special appeal for pet lovers who also want to support local restaurants called Plates for Pets. “For over 20 years, local restaurants have been our partners, helping pets in need by donating gift certificates for our dinner auctions and golf tournaments. We know times are tough for our restaurant friends right now, so we’re encouraging supporters to consider purchasing gift certificates to local restaurants to donate to Second Chance for our upcoming Annual Dinner Auction.
The annual dinner auction is Second Chance’s largest and most important fundraiser, providing funding for all the programs that help pets in need from adoption services to vaccine and spay/neuter clinics to access to veterinary care for all.
For anyone interested in sponsoring, donating or participating in the Fetch! Sit! Stay! Dinner Auction, complete information and tickets can be found at www.secondchanceanimals.org/fetch.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded in 1999. Second Chance began as an animal shelter and grew to help more pets in need. Today SCAS operates three Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Springfield, and Worcester providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all. Subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities to ensure access to care for all pets in need. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. Second Chance is 501c3 tax exempt organization – EIN: 04-3490671.
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Cornerstone Bank announces promotion of Maria Salvatore
Human resource director now holds role of Senior Vice President, Chief Culture Officer
SOUTHBRIDGE, Mass. – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout central Massachusetts, recently promoted Maria Salvatore to a new role within executive management. Effective January 1, 2021, she was elevated from Senior Vice President, Human Resources (HR) Director to her new role: Senior Vice President, Chief Culture Officer.
A seasoned human resource professional, Salvatore joined Cornerstone Bank in 2018 after amassing relevant banking and human resources experience from her time spent in comparable leadership roles at financial institutions throughout the Commonwealth. In her previous position at Cornerstone, she was responsible for human resources, training and partnering with management to drive employee engagement. In addition, she negotiated and selected benefits programs and helped to drive company culture.
As Cornerstone’s new Chief Culture Officer, she will build upon the foundation she laid over the past five years, continuing to lead HR functions while overseeing team learning and development opportunities, and facilities and project management activities. In addition, she is responsible for the management of both employee and community relations teams.
Of the promotion, Salvatore shared that, "It is a pleasure to work with a team that embraces positive change. I look forward to embarking on this new journey within an organization that places such an emphasis on both the professional development of its employees and strengthening its ties with members of the community.”
A resident of Sutton, MA, Salvatore is a graduate of Rhode Island College and Northeastern University where she received her master’s in human resources.
About Cornerstone Bank
Cornerstone Bank is an independent, mutual savings bank serving residents, businesses and communities throughout Central Massachusetts. Our customer promise, Built on Trust, is not just a brand, but also a corporate focus. Whether a business or personal partnership, Cornerstone Bank rests on the foundation that relationships are built on trust. 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. To learn about Cornerstone Bank’s personal and business banking offerings, please visit cornerstonebank.com or call 800-939-9103.
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JC Penney Sturbridge Location is
CLOSING
Sturbridge Plaza, 194 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA
Retail Fixtures, Furniture & Equipment for Sale
Clothing Racks, Mannequins, Jewelry Displays, Christmas Décor, File Cabinets, Office Furniture,
Pallet Racking, Shelving, Select Shopping Carts, Salon Equipment & more!*
*Selection may vary by location.
The sale is now, but most of the items can't be released to the buyer until the store is done with them.
Currently, the store is scheduled to close May 16.
For more information please contact:
David Seim
(843) 412-1274
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Cornerstone Bank recognizes employees for dedicated service
Years of Service Award recipients honored
Worcester, MA– Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, is celebrating 24 employees who have hit a landmark in their tenure with Years of Service Awards. Employees are honored for every five years of service they have completed with the Bank.
“The passion and commitment our employees bring to the workplace every day is inspiring,” said CEO of Cornerstone Bank Todd Tallman. “These 24 employees have helped us maintain steady growth over their years of service and embody our values of respect, integrity, trust and excellence. We thank you all for your dedication and loyalty over the past 5, 10 and even 45 years!”
“Despite the hardships of this past year, these employees and the rest of our staff have pushed through, showing tremendous strength and resilience,” said President Randal Webber. “I applaud our service award recipients for their longstanding devotion to our organization.”
Below is a list of employees receiving the Years of Service Award:
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Second Chance Performs 60,000 Spay/Neuter
Low-Cost Program Continues to Combat Pet Homelessness
SPRINGFIELD, MA (March 24, 2021) – Second Chance Animal Services reached a new milestone in their history of helping pets in need. The organization performed their 60,000th spay/neuter surgery earlier this month through the low-cost program offered at all Second Chance Community Veterinary Hospitals.
COO of Hospitals Amanda Normandin is proud of the accomplishment and the work the spay/neuter teams have accomplished despite the challenges of the past year. “We know just how important spay/neuter services are. Not only does the program help control pet homelessness, it also improves the lives of pets receiving the surgery. Week after week, Second Chance hospitals perform emergency surgery for female pets suffering from pyometra, a potentially deadly infection of the uterus. Routine spays and neuters can help protect pets from many life-threatening conditions including pyometra and testicular cancer.”
Second Chance’s spay/neuter program was paused briefly at the beginning of the Covid outbreak to conserve critical supplies for emergency surgeries as both human and animal hospitals dealt with supply shortages. “When we were able to resume spay/neuter, we faced a significant backlog and our surgical team has been working hard to catch up, adding additional days to the surgical schedule to help as many pets as possible.”
Second Chance’s low-cost spay/neuter program began in 2005 at the East Brookfield shelter to help stem pet homelessness in the surrounding community. Today, hundreds of pets come to the three nonprofit hospitals in Springfield, Worcester and North Brookfield each month for spay/neuter surgery in state-of-the-art surgical suites made possible by grants and generous donors.
Second Chance surgeons are specially trained to perform the highest-quality high-volume surgeries. Pets check in early morning and are discharged later the same day so they can recuperate in the comfort of their own homes with their owners.
Second Chance founder and CEO Sheryl Blancato is proud of the longstanding low-cost spay/neuter program and said, “Thanks to these surgeries, less pets are ending up in Massachusetts shelters, which means more pets in shelters are getting a second chance.”
Pet owners who would like to take advantage of this program for their pet can visit www.secondchanceanimals.org and fill out a S.P.O.T application under the Vet Care tab.
PHOTO: The Second Chance North Brookfield Spay/Neuter team with all the surgical packs they need for one day's surgeries.
About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded in 1999. Second Chance began as an animal shelter and grew to help more pets in need. Today SCAS operates three Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Springfield, and Worcester providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all. Subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities to ensure access to care for all pets in need. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. Second Chance is 501c3 tax exempt organization – EIN: 04-3490671.
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Country Bank Promotes Russ Fontaine to Senior Vice President
Ware, MA – March 24, 2021 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving central and western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce that Russ Fontaine has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Customer Experience. Fontaine has an extensive background and is a seasoned banking professional with 30 years of experience in key management and leadership roles in consumer sales and service. Fontaine previously held the position of First Vice President, Sales and Market Management with Country Bank, where he oversaw sales and service. One example of a new program introduced by the Bank, as a result of Fontaine's recommendation, was the deployment of a "Voice of the Customer" program that enables the Bank to measure and better understand the overall customer experience through various survey metrics.
In the newly created role, Fontaine is tasked with leading a bank-wide collaborative effort to view things from the customer's perspective; this applies to both the Bank's external customer and its internal customer. "This increased focus of looking at things through the lens of the customer will strengthen Country Bank's ability to deliver a "Best in Class" customer service experience and as a result, attract new customers for the Bank while deepening the relationships of existing ones," stated Fontaine.
"For over 170 years, providing excellent customer service has been a hallmark value and priority for Country Bank. In today's ever-changing dynamic customer service landscape, customer-facing companies must ensure that the entire customer experience is a primary focus. Russ exemplifies Country Bank’s iSTEP Corporate Values of Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence and Prosperity and is the perfect person to fill this new role," stated Mary McGovern, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Country Bank.
"We are pleased to elevate Russ into this newly created position and focus for the Bank. Russ's extensive banking experience and dedication to a superior customer experience will serve the Country Bank community well," stated McGovern. McGovern oversees the Customer Experience area and Retail Banking, Retail Lending, IT, and Operations departments at Country Bank.
Fontaine is very active within the community; he currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Central/Western Massachusetts March of Dimes and is a 2021 co-chair for the March for Babies fundraising event in Massachusetts. He has also served on the Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, including holding the chair role for the organization's Restore committee. Additionally, Fontaine has been an avid supporter of the United Way and the Western Mass Special Olympics.
About Country Bank
Country Bank is a full-service mutual community bank serving central and western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton, and Worcester. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF, and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at countrybank.com.
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Harrington Scholarship deadline extended
SOUTHBRIDGE: The Harrington Hospital Auxiliary is pleased to announce the continuation of its annual scholarship program, which offers five $2000 scholarships to students pursuing a career in health care.
Scholarship Application Information:
- Five (one year) scholarships will be awarded by The Harrington Hospital Auxiliary in June of 2021. Each scholarship will be in the amount of $2000.00. Applicants must be planning to pursue a career in Health Care and must be accepted into an accredited Health Care Program.
- To be eligible, applicants must reside in one of the Central Massachusetts or North Eastern Connecticut communities served by Harrington Hospital.
An Applicant must be identified as one of the following:
- A student who is graduating from an area high school in 2021.
- An individual who has already graduated from an area high school and who has not been a previous recipient of a Harrington Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship.
- An individual who has received a high school graduate equivalency diploma (G.E.D.).
- An individual who has been home educated and who has met all high school graduation criteria as set forth by their local School Board.
Any person who is an employee or a relative of an employee of Harrington Hospital and affiliations who meets the above criteria is eligible to apply.
COMPLETED APPLICATION PACKETS MUST INCLUDE:
- A current TRANSCRIPT of your high school or college record, including grades, grade point average, and rank in-class (when applicable).
- PSAT, SAT I or II, ACT scores, or other pertinent standardized test scores.
- A personal (student written) ESSAY (on a separate sheet) describing why you wish to further your education in the field of Health Care.
- TWO letters of reference. We request one letter from a faculty member, guidance counselor, or other school personnel. The second letter should be written by an individual who knows you from the workplace, church, organization, or volunteer organization.
Harrington Auxiliary, established in 1932, is a non-profit organization of dedicated and impassioned volunteers whose mission is to support and enhance the excellent services provided by the Harrington HealthCare System.
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Spring Break Teacher's Special! April 16-25
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STEMing into Sports Program
In-Person Offered Weekly July - August 2021
Early Bird Special $50 Off ends May 1st, 2021
Nichols College, 121 Center Rd., Dudley MA, Davis Hall
The purpose of Our Bright Future STEMing into Sports Program is to provide Robotics and Sports for youth ages 9 years old to 17 years old in a safe, caring, and supportive environment at Nichols College Campus in Dudley, MA. Our Bright Future is structured to develop and implement programs and activities that prepare youth for success. Members are encouraged to participate in all 5 core areas of programming: Character & Leadership Development, Education & Career Development, Health & Life Skills, The Arts, Sports & Fitness, and Recreation. Children within Our Bright Future STEMing into Sports Program receive the benefits of a structured child care program within a full-functioning safe environment.
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
For more information and registration, please visit:
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Cornerstone Bank to Award Sixteen $2,000 Scholarships
Students in Central Massachusetts can apply now
SOUTHBRIDGE, Mass. – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout central Massachusetts, will be awarding sixteen $2,000 scholarships to students in the area it serves. Cornerstone Bank is hoping to help 2021 high school graduates throughout their community pursue higher education and foster advancement in the fields of business and finance. The sixteen scholarships will be awarded to the students who best demonstrate achievement in academics, extracurricular activities and community involvement.
“Making sure the future leaders of America get a great education is so important to us at Cornerstone Bank,” said CEO Todd Tallman. “We are excited to be able to help students achieve their dreams every year to go into the business or finance industries. Access to a good education can be difficult for many students, especially with how difficult this past year has been, so we hope the help we are able to provide to this group of graduates helps them to reach their goals.”
To apply for a scholarship, the student must:
- Be a 2021 high school graduate
- Reside within 10 miles of a Cornerstone Bank branch or office
- Anticipate being a full-time student at an accredited, degree-granting institution of higher education
- Anticipate studying in a business or financial field
- Demonstrate achievement and high standards in academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement
- Submit an official transcript and GPA from their guidance office
In addition, the student must choose one of the following prompts and submit a one-page typed essay:
1. Are there any challenges you have had to overcome in your high school career?
OR
2. What are your goals for the future, and how will this scholarship assist you in meeting them?
Applications must be submitted or postmarked to Cornerstone Bank by April 5, 2021. Please send all applications to scholarships@cornerstonebank.com, or mail to Cornerstone Bank Scholarship Committee: P.O. Box 370, Southbridge, MA, 01550. Selected recipients will be announced by the week of May 24, 2021. Scholarship funds will be disbursed to the student after successful completion of the first semester, and upon presentation of an official copy of the first semester transcript and second semester bill.
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Bid Local To Support the WOMAN IN BUSINESS Scholarship Program
For 30 years, Woman In Business, Inc. has raised money for and awarded over $60,000 in scholarship prizes to over 100 well-deserving students from our community high schools for their continuing education. We raise money for our scholarship program all year long through raffles at our monthly meetings and at our annual fundraiser held in conjunction with the Tantasqua High School Drama Club. We don’t need to tell you that this year is different, especially for our graduates who have already missed out on so much!
One of the signature features of WIB’s annual fundraiser is our auction of local items and packages donated by members and other community businesses. This year, because we have been unable to hold our monthly meetings and cannot plan for a fundraising event, we have taken our auction online. And we would appreciate your help.
Can you donate a service, product or experience to our auction? We are looking to showcase our region and all we have to offer, so we are looking to keep our auction items local in theme but our auction open to bidders everywhere through a special online bidding platform. Our online auction will be held May 12-19, 2021. More information will be announced shortly.
If you are interested in making an auction donation please complete the attached form. You can email it back ( info@wibsturbridge.org), mail it in (PO Box 483, Sturbridge, MA 01566) or drop off your item and form at the office of Your Hometown Shopper, 46 Hall Road, Sturbridge, MA (call first: 413-329-6554). All donation items are due April 16th.
Thank you for your support!
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Position Opening: Executive Director, Opacum Land Trust
Opacum Land Trust (OLT) is seeking a new leader with a passion for conservation to lead OLT into and through its next phase of growth. This position will also play an important leadership role in the regional conservation efforts of the MassConn Sustainable Forest Partnership, helping to coordinate and implement several federally funded, multi-state projects.
Opacum Land Trust is a nonprofit organization founded in 2000 to protect the natural and cultural resources in south-central Massachusetts. OLT has helped to permanently protect more than 3,400 acres of land, including 2,011 acres that we directly own or hold conservation easements on. We are committed to protecting our current properties and providing opportunities for passive recreation, while proactively pursuing new opportunities to protect additional land, wildlife, and natural resources.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Executive Director (ED) is responsible for advancing the mission of OLT through leadership in the areas of land protection and stewardship, development, community relations, regional partnership coordination, and board development. The ED will bring vision, energy, and creativity to develop strategies and new opportunities for Opacum in service to its host communities and partners. In collaboration with an active and dedicated Board of Directors and an experienced Assistant Director, the Executive Director will develop and carry out the strategic and programmatic goals for Opacum Land Trust.
This is a full-time position. Our office is in Brimfield, MA, but some remote work is allowed.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
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Virtual Photography Travelogue!
Our Virtual Photography Travelogue program is narrated by professional photographer Ron Rosenstock whom I represent through Sbrogna’s Artistic Promotions.
We offer many one-hour virtual programs for purchase. A few locations which might be of interest to your staff or to your residents in Senior Living are Italy, Morocco, Ireland, and Iceland/Greenland. Please click on the thumbnail below to see a trailer for our Italy presentation!
This will give you an idea of what you can expect if you should invite us to do a virtual program at your facility. If you’re interested, please check out our website at www.sbrognaart.com and/or email at linda@sbrognaart.com or call me 508-318-3267.
We are working hard to find ways to continue to inspire, educate, and show the beauty of our world to the community as we all continue to go through our current health crisis.
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Members of the Chamber of Central Mass South have access to special partner discounts every time they shop in store. They can save on an assortment of products, from signage to PPE to business essentials and more.
20% off your in-store Print & Marketing Services order
• Floor decals, signs and posters
• Indoor and outdoor banners
• Disposable menus and more
10% off your in-store purchase of regularly priced items
• Safety essentials like face masks, sanitizer and more
• Office supplies like paper, ink and toner and more
• Remote furniture like chairs, desks and more
Ready to start saving? First, you must be a Staples Rewards Member.
Already a Staples Rewards member? You'll just need your Rewards number to enter on the sheet linked below.
To get your number, login to your account, click Rewards, and then click Rewards Profile to locate your Rewards number or call 800-793-3320 for assistance.
Click HERE to add your name and info to the CMS Chamber Discount enrollment spreadsheet.
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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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Online Opportunities
Worcester Regional Chamber will offer Business After Hours via Zoom with all affiliate chambers on April 15th. You'll also find FREE workshops and courses from SCORE and MSBDC. 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!
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WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Business After Hours with Affiliate Chambers (Auburn, Blackstone, CMS, Wachusett and WDO)
(see the graphic above)
Virtual via Zoom
Thursday, April 15, 2021, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM on Zoom
FREE for Chamber Members
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. Includes break-out groups for networking. Join us and hundreds of area professionals for a fun, informal networking event! Click on the graphic above or here to REGISTER.
HR Roundtable: HR for Non-HR Professionals
Tuesday, April 6, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM on Zoom
No charge. For Chamber members in HR only.
Whether you are a recently appointed HR Manager, are new to the role or have a non-HR job with HR responsibilities, this seminar will give you an overview of the HR function. You will learn HR's role in an organization, essential functions, future trends, and their impact and how to develop an action plan to put to work in your company no matter your job title. Presenter: Karyn Rhodes REGISTER
FREE ONLINE BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY SCORE
SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Since 1964, SCORE has provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs.
BUSINESS START UP BASICS
Cash Flow Management for Small Businesses
Thursday | April 1 | 12:00 pm
Brief overview of financial reports with the main focus on the cash flow statement. You will learn why it is the most important report for small businesses, what it will tell you, how to improve your cash flow and how to anticipate and prepare for future short falls. REGISTER
Winning Nonprofit Fundraising Strategies
Wed | April 7 | 12:00 pm
Nonprofits are facing fundraising challenges more than ever before. Fun Fact: 90% of $$$ come from 10% of all donors.
Come hear about a focused approach that yields positive results. REGISTER
Simplifying Social Media for Small Business
Wed | April 7 | 1:00 pm
Social Media can be a powerful tool for winning new customers and clients, as well as continuing a relationship with existing ones, but it can also become very time consuming and expensive. Join us to learn more! REGISTER
Making a Business Plan: Leveraging Your Earned and Innate skills to Soar
Thurs | April 8 | 11:00 am
If you were planning a trip, one of the first aspects of the journey to plan would be the route to your destination. Planning a business is no different. Making a business plan not only outlines your ideal path to the destination you have in mind, it also prompts you to articulate who you plan to journey with, and which vehicles you may need. REGISTER
Women's Virtual Happy Hour
Thurs | April 8 | 5:30 pm
Make real connections virtually! Get to know people in a fun and interactive way. Rotate through virtual breakout rooms.
Develop meaningful connections. Build relationships. REGISTER
Do I Need a Bookkeeper? How Do I Find One?
Friday | April 9 | 10:00 am
This webinar will try to convince you that you do need a GOOD bookkeeper and with good bookkeeping your business can grow and become more profitable. REGISTER
Excel Pivot Tables — Dissecting and Analyzing Your Data
Wed | April 14 | 10:00 am
Pivot tables give you the power to digest and analyze large quantities of data, both to produce periodic reports and uncover secrets underlying your numbers. This live, one-hour session will show you how to structure your data for analysis and build Pivot Tables and Pivot Charts. REGISTER
How to Write a Low-Cost Digital Marketing Plan
Thurs | April 15 | 12:00 pm
Hope is not a marketing strategy! Every business needs a marketing plan to grow and prosper, especially now with the pandemic. Learn what you need to include (and why) in a comprehensive marketing plan that delivers results. REGISTER
MORE UPCOMING SCORE WEBINARS
View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.
BUSINESS WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK
Statewide Training & Event Calendar
Apr 1 Hiring and Managing Employees
Apr 1 Online Food Delivery Service
Apr 1 Target Marketing
Apr 1 Start-up Costs
Apr 1 Small Business Resources Forum
Apr 6 Will Your PPP Loan be Forgiven?
Apr 6 Increasing Your Enterprise Value & Growing Your Business
Apr 6 Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Business Fundamentals
Apr 7 Building Sustainable Business Series: Using Financial Tools
Apr 7 Credit Counseling
Apr 8 Basics of Starting Your Business
Apr 8 Facebook: Personal, Business & New Platform Changes
Apr 8 Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Understanding Business Financials
Apr 9 Restricted Party List Trends and Best Practices globe
Apr 13 Federal Government Contracting (Part 1)
Visit the online calendar for more info and to register for these 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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Help Opacum Land Trust get our trails ready for spring!
Join Opacum Land Trust for property clean-up days this April so we can get our trails ready for everyone to enjoy!
Help update trail markers, repair bridges, clear out fallen trees, and clean up the trails. Opacum will keep the groups small and everyone distanced for safety. Kids and families welcome.
Please wear a mask and bring work gloves, water, clippers, loppers, and hand saws if you have them.
No tools? No problem, just let us know and we'll bring extra.
We'll start at 9 am on the days below and will finish up by 12.
Please RSVP so we know how many people to expect and so we can contact you if it's rained out.
Want to help, but can't make it on these days? Let us know & we'll make sure to notify you about future workdays.
APRIL 1
Claire Birtz Wildlife Sanctuary - Southbridge
444 Tipton Rock Rd Southbridge, MA
Park at the trailhead on Tipton Rock Rd. Please be aware that sections of Tipton Rock Road are impassable! Do not approach from Blackmer Rd. or Lebanon Hill. Take Rt. 169 (N. Woodstock Road). More info on the sanctuary.
APRIL 15
Dingley Dell - Brimfield
51 Monson Road, Brimfield, MA
The trailhead and gravel parking lot are located at 51 Monson Road, just east of Sutcliffe/ Dingley Dell Road in Brimfield.
APRIL 17
Opacum Woods - Sturbridge
Old Brook Circle, Sturbridge, MA
APRIL 29
Quinlan Memorial Conservation Land - Monson
Reimers Road, Monson, MA
Meet at the trailhead on Reimers Road in Monson, approx. 1 mile from the intersection with Silver St and approx. 1 mile from the intersection with Stebbins Rd. There is limited parking in the parking lot, but plenty of parking available on the side of the road.
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Celebrate Easter with Table 3!
Dine in or Pre-order Your Easter Dinner from The Duck & Avellino or Cedar Street Grille!
For a special Easter celebration leave the cooking to Table 3. Our talented chefs have prepared sensational menus.
Enjoy a stress-free holiday in one of our fine restaurants, or if you prefer to enjoy an Easter meal at home, we will also be offering online pre-ordering menus where you select your favorite items and pick up times for Easter Sunday.
The Duck and Avellino will be serving a traditional à la carte menu with your holiday favorites.
Call 508-347-2321 for The Duck & Avellino seating: 11am–4pm
Cedar Street Grille at The Barn will be offering their unique brunch menu all day plus some great Easter specials.
Call 508-347-5800 for Cedar Street Grille seating: 10am–4pm
If you require a gluten-free meal or have an allergy, please call the restaurant directly at 508-347-2321.
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Candidates Forum: Sturbridge Selectmen
April 7, 7:00-8:30pm
Broadcast Live on Sturbridge CCTV
The Chamber of Central Mass South will host a forum between the four Sturbridge selectmen candidates on Wednesday, April 7th from 7:00pm to 8:30pm at the Sturbridge Town Hall. Each candidate will make brief opening statements and field questions developed by the Chamber’s Board and Executive Director. Sturbridge residents will also have the opportunity to pose questions live during the forum via text message. Due to the Town Hall being closed to the public, residents will not be allowed to attend the forum in person.
Moderated by the Chamber’s Executive Director Alexandra McNitt, the forum will be broadcast live on Sturbridge CCTV and periodically rerun until the election on April 12. The four candidates for Sturbridge Selectman are Chase Kaibenski (incumbent), Michael Suprenant (incumbent), Priscilla Gimas and Jamie Goodwin.
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United Way of South Central Mass
2020 Campaign Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting
Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 8 AM – 9 AM
Price: Free · Duration: 1 hr
Broadcast Live on ZOOM from Visions Restaurant at Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center
Please REGISTER by April 2.
We are almost ready to open the doors and meet in person with all our wonderful friends, corporate partners, donors and our Member Agencies…. but not quite yet! One more event to be held via Zoom with a few of our board members and award recipients in attendance.
Please join us for a recap of the 2020 Campaign, hear from our guest speaker, Lisa Prince, CEO of TRI-VALLEY Inc, and stay for our Annual Meeting as we introduce our new board members and Executive Committee.
Click on this registration link to have the Zoom information emailed prior to the event.
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Cedar Street Grille Re-Opens!
Thursday, April 8, 2021
Cedar Street Grille is excited to announce the return to their 12 Cedar Street home after a year of being closed and operating out of The Barn at Wight Farm. The Cedar Street Grille staff is “over the moon” about returning to their comfortable restaurant and to welcome back their customers in the setting that made Cedar Street a go-to fixture on the local and regional dining scene. Everyone at Table 3 is happy to see Cedar Street Grille return to action and we hope to see you there soon. Seating will be limited and reservations are encouraged. Please call 508-347-5800 to reserve your spot today.
All current CDC precautions will be in place including six-foot spacing, protective barriers (where applicable), enhanced cleaning and sanitization, and enhanced air filtration.
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SOUTHBRIDGE CREDIT UNION
Main Office: 179 Main Street Southbridge, MA
Hobbs Brook: 120 Charlton Road (Rt 20) Sturbridge, MA
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.
We’ve got you.
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April 10: Country Bank's Free Community Shred Day
Ware, MA – March 15, 2021 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving central and western Massachusetts, is partnering with PROSHRED® Security for its annual Shred Day to allow the public to discard their documents safely and securely.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, there were 1.4 million identity theft reports in 2020, and that number continues to rise. Country Bank offers this free shredding service to the public because it understands the importance of helping consumers keep their identity safe. All visitors are asked to practice social distancing and will be required to wear a mask.
Country Bank's free Community Shred Day will take place on April 10th at the following Country Bank branch locations:
• 155 West Street, Ware from 8:30 am – 10:30 am
• 2379 Boston Road, Wilbraham from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
• 1084 Main Street, Leicester from 8:30 am – 10:30 am
• 37 Worcester Road, Charlton from 11:30am -1:30pm
Items to consider for shredding: old documents, tax returns, bank statements, receipts, bills, or anything that contains your personal identifiable information.
About Country Bank
Country Bank is a full-service mutual community bank serving central and western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton, and Worcester. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF, and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at countrybank.com.
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MassHire Career Central: EMPLOYER SCHOOL
Inviting all employers to a new series of bi-monthly short online presentations about the various MassHire Central Career Centers Business Services that are available to support your company. Topics will range from recruiting, hiring, and retaining employees; development and safety; to business law and regulations, with a focus on MassHire BizWorks Programs. These 45-minute online sessions will begin at noon and be held every other month. You do not have to engage live, but can just listen in while eating lunch!
The first session is scheduled for Wednesday, April 14, 12:00-12:45.
TOPIC: Training Funds For Employers through the Commonwealth Corporation Workforce Training Fund Program
PRESENTERS: Kristen Rayne, Outreach Manager, Commonwealth Corporation; and
Christine McNally, Business Development Specialist, Quinsigamond Community College
Learn how to become another company in Central Mass receiving up to $250,000 for training incumbents!
If you want to join us, please email JoyceD@masshirecentralcc.com with your name, title, email, company name, and company address. After we receive your email, we will send you the Webex link to connect on April 14.
If you have any questions, please contact us!
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Cooking with Rico: Flavors of Tuscany
Thursday, April 15, 2021 at 6:30 PM
Join us for the first Cooking with Rico of the 2021 season...Tuscan cuisine—or Rustic Italian Country Cooking—is appreciated the world over for its natural and flavorful ingredients. Tuscan food is based on the Italian idea of cucina povera or “poor cooking.” A concept that’s about simple meals that are inexpensive and could easily be made in large amounts. It is also the typical expression of the Mediterranean diet, considered among many to be the most wholesome and delicious. With a few basic top-quality ingredients, Tuscan chefs can create exceptional dishes.
In this Cooking with Rico series, Rico will demonstrate how with just a few regional ingredients, simple and marvelous rustic Italian dishes can be prepared. Who doesn't need this at home right now?
As always, each course is accompanied by a specially chosen wine pairing. This event is $55 per person with wine pairings, or $45 without. Tax and gratuity are not included. Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321.
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Earth Week at Old Sturbridge Village
April 17-April 25
Times: The Village is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
Seed, sow, celebrate! Join us throughout the week for a wide variety of talks, walks, workshops, and activities related to nature, ecology, stewardship, and our climate. Our interpreters will host talks exploring the deep connections between the environment and early 19th-century life and begin the seasonal work of preparing and planting the fields and gardens. This week will feature a different theme each day including, harvesting crops, sowing fields, planting seeds, and much more spring time preparation! You can also celebrate Patriots Day at the Village on April 19!
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Dining Rooms Re-Open on April 1st! That's TODAY!
The Publick House is pleased to announce that their dining rooms will be re-opening on April 1, 2021!
Open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday, closed Monday and Tuesday, weekly, until further notice.
Dining hours will be Wednesday-Thursday 12-7 PM, Friday-Saturday 12-8 PM, Sunday 12-5 PM.
Looking forward to serving you soon!
Prepared foods and meals are available from the Bake Shoppe. Please call ahead to allow for preparation time.
LOOKING FOR COLD PREPARED MEALS TO HEAT UP AT HOME?
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Be very quiet, Salem Cross Inn is in hibernation.
See you in the Spring!
for updates regarding their reopening.
508-867-2345
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SAVE THE DATE!
Southbridge Business Partnership is excited to announce the return of
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FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021
(5 movies in all! Each month thru September)
Southbridge Innovation Center
AO Back Parking Lot
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SAVE THE DATE!
THE 2021 CMS CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC
AUGUST 5, 2021
HERITAGE COUNTRY CLUB, CHARLTON
STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFO COMING SOON!
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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
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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
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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