Welcome to October's Crossroads Events!

BOO! CROSSROADS is in your inbox on Friday the 13th! The 33rd Annual Harvest Festival happens this weekend on the Sturbridge Town Common. We hope you can come by and join in the fun! You'll also find the latest news and many scintillating seasonal events from our Members and friends in this issue. Enjoy!

CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. If you events to share with our readers on our Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: NOVEMBER 1, 2023

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

The office is OPEN Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-347-2761 to be sure we are here.

CMS CHAMBER OFFICE, 1A RIVER ROAD, STURBRIDGE

The 33rd Annual Harvest Festival

October 14 & 15, 2023

Sturbridge Town Common

The Annual Harvest Festival on the Sturbridge Town Common is a family fun tradition.

The event includes countless local crafters, artisans, specialty food vendors, farm fresh harvests

and the Publick House Scarecrow Contest!

CRAFTERS! LIVE MUSIC & MAGIC! SPECIALTY FOOD TRUCKS!

ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

SATURDAY

10:00-12:45pm ERIN HARPE'S CBD (Country Blues Duo)

1:15-2:00pm Magic Show by AWESOME ROBB (followed by 2 hours of roving Magic)

2:30-5:00pm RAILROAD HOUSE

SUNDAY

11:30-12:15pm Magic Show by AWESOME ROBB (followed by 2 hours of roving Magic)

1:00-3:45pm NEVER SAY NEVER

FOOD TRUCKS LINEUP

FRY'D GUYS

JB'S MOBILE CAFE

THAI PLACE FOOD TRUCK

UNCLE E'S BBQ EXPRESS (ON SATURDAY ONLY)

MELISSA FLAHERTY CAKES

ADMISSION IS FREE! PARKING IS FREE!

Festival hours are 10am to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sunday.

Rain or Shine.

PRESENTED BY THE CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: STURBRIDGE TOURIST ASSOCIATION

Did you know? Employers across the country reported 2.6 million injury and illness cases in private industry in 2021. Through the DIA Workplace Safety Grant, Massachusetts-based and operating employers can keep their workplace free of known health and safety hazards. 

Employers will find that implementing safety and health programs help:

• Prevent workplace injuries and illnesses
• Improve compliance with laws and regulations
• Reduce costs, including significant reductions in workers' compensation premiums
• Engage workers
• Enhance their social responsibility goal

Now accepting applications through Monday, October 23, 2023

Massachusetts-based and operating employers may request up to $25,000 to administer workplace safety training. Please note the Workplace Safety Grant is a reimbursement program, and grant recipients will be reimbursed as agreed upon in approved contract documents.

Second Chance Animal Services Celebrates 75,000th Spay & Neuter Surgery Milestone in September

NORTH BROOKFIELD, MA (October 9, 2023) – Second Chance Animal Services, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the welfare of animals, is thrilled to announce a monumental achievement in their mission to reduce pet overpopulation. In September, the organization performed its 75,000th low-cost spay and neuter surgery, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to create healthier communities for pets.

This achievement builds on the success of Second Chance's longstanding commitment to providing accessible and affordable spay and neuter services. The organization began its low-cost program in 2005 at their East Brookfield shelter, aiming to address the root causes of pet homelessness. Today, the nonprofit's hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester continue to serve hundreds of pets each month in state-of-the-art surgical suites, made possible by grants and generous donors.

Spaying and neutering not only contribute to controlling the population of stray and unwanted animals but also play a vital role in enhancing the overall health and well-being of pets. These procedures can prevent various cancers and other serious health issues while positively influencing pets' behavior by reducing aggression and roaming tendencies.

Sheryl Blancato, the CEO and founder of Second Chance, expressed her pride in the organization's impact through 75,000 surgeries. "This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our team and the support of our community. However, our work is far from over. We are committed to continuing our efforts to reach even more pets in need."

Blancato urges all pet owners to consider spaying or neutering their pets, emphasizing the preventative benefits. "Routine spays and neuters can protect pets from life-threatening conditions, including pyometra and testicular cancer. Our goal is not only to address the immediate needs of pets but to contribute to a healthier pet community in the long run."

Pet owners interested in availing themselves of the low-cost spay and neuter program can visit www.secondchanceanimals.org and complete a S.P.O.T application under the Vet Care tab.

PHOTO: Two kitten siblings await surgery at Second Chance’s North Brookfield Community Veterinary Hospital.

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 Second Chance operates Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, 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. Last year Second Chance helped over 44,000 pets live better lives through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & 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:  facebook.com/secondchanceanimals

Follow Second Chance on Instagram: @secondchanceas/

Follow Second Chance on Twitter:  @secondchanceas

North Brookfield Savings Bank Announces New Hires and Promotion

North Brookfield, MA— North Brookfield Savings Bank is pleased to announce the hiring of Katherine Meyer as Human Resource Director, Michelle Ramos as Compliance Officer, and the promotion of Ann Brady to Controller & Treasurer.

North Brookfield Savings Bank prides itself on not simply hiring for technical expertise but hiring individuals whose background will add to the bank’s culture; people who bring different experiences, offer unique perspectives, and create a diversity of thinking among the bank’s workforce.

Katherine Meyer, of northern Connecticut, has been hired as First Vice President, Human Resources Director for North Brookfield Savings Bank. She will be responsible for oversight of all aspects of the human resources function including recruitment, onboarding, engagement, and retention of valuable talent; development of competitive compensation and benefits programs; and strategic planning and change management.

For the past 7 years, Katherine held the role of Vice President, Human Resources for a Connecticut-based credit union. Prior to that, she held HR leadership roles in industries such as healthcare, hospitality, construction, and manufacturing. Katherine serves on Lockton’s Talent and Culture Advisory Board, is a member of the HR Association of Central Connecticut (HRACC) and looks forward to joining a local SHRM chapter in Western Massachusetts.  Katherine holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Connecticut, a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Cambridge College, PHR certification from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), and SHRM-CP certification from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

“I look forward to being a part of the continued success of NBSB which is so steeped in local community history, and helping to ensure that success by attracting the best talent to serve our loyal customers,” said Meyer. “I enjoy visiting our branch locations, meeting our teams, and observing the interconnectedness of all our processes. I am excited to be working among such a truly dedicated group of people.”

Michelle Ramos, of Gardner, MA, has been hired as Vice President, Compliance Officer for North Brookfield Savings Bank. She will be responsible for Oversight of the Bank’s Compliance Management Program.

For the past 20 years, Michelle has held a variety of roles for Fidelity Bank in Leominster, MA, including 8 years in Retail Banking, 4 years in and Corporate Training, and 8 years in Compliance most recently as AVP, Compliance Manager.

Michelle is currently a part of the Finance Committee for Cornerstone Church in Winchendon, MA. In addition, Michelle holds Certificates in Deposit & Lending Compliance, and has earned a certificate of professional development through Nichols College.

"As the new compliance officer for North Brookfield Savings Bank, I am dedicated to upholding the highest regulatory standards and ensuring the bank's operations remain fully compliant,” said Ramos.  “I am excited to contribute to the bank's strong commitment to ethical banking, trust, and exceptional service while collaborating with and supporting my new colleagues."

Ann Brady, of Wheelwright, MA, has been promoted to Vice President, Controller & Treasurer at our Corporate Headquarters Location.

Before coming to North Brookfield Savings Bank, Ann worked for Country Bank for Savings for over 18 years, starting as a Data processer before becoming the Assistant Accounting Supervisor.

Ann holds an Advanced Financial Services diploma from the Center for Financial Training. With more than 20 years of experience in the financial services field, Ann brings a wealth of knowledge, confidence and experience to her new role and existing team. In addition to her previous duties, Ann will now be responsible for overseeing the Accounting department and will sit on the Bank’s ALCO committee.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to expand my skillset by working with our CEO at a higher level,” said Brady. “The accounting team is comprised of extremely experienced and talented people, with whom I am excited to learn as we move forward.“

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, 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 recently announced they received a 5-Star Superior rating from Bauer Financial, the Nation’s Premier Bank Rating Firm once again. The Bank has earned and maintained this 5-star rating for 100 consecutive quarters, which furthermore means that North Brookfield Savings Bank qualifies for an elite designation of a “Sustained Superiority Bank”. This status is reserved for the top 10% of the nation’s banks, those that have maintained Bauer Financials' highest 5-Star rating longer than 90% of the industry. 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.

Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village returns!

Featuring a new "members-only" night and early access to tickets

for members starting October 13!

Sturbridge, MA – Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village is kicking off its season early this year with pre-sale tickets available to members starting at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 13. The popular holiday event will return with dates in November and December, inviting visitors to step into the past and celebrate New England holiday traditions of the 19th century and today.

Christmas by Candlelight makes a great family activity while guests are in town, a way to get in the spirit after a day of shopping, or a fun way to spend the afternoon with the kids when they are on school vacation.

This year’s event will see the return of many favorite holiday activities, always with a new spin. Start planning your visit today and save big while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Enchantment abounds  – Old Sturbridge Village’s 200-acre campus will be decorated for the holiday season. Guests can wander the Christmas Tree Trail and Christmas Wish Bridge or watch the evening come to life at a lighting ceremony every night at 4:30 p.m., ride in the horse-drawn carry-all around the Village Common, visit the 500+ piece nativity set in the Friends Meetinghouse and view Christmas décor from the 19th century. Thanks to special contributions from Oakwood Farms Christmas Barn in Spencer, MA, the Asa Knight Store will feature the history of glass ornaments. Our cabinetmaker will be crafting wooden toys and gifts and the tinners will be punching tin lanterns. Take in the sights and smells of holiday baking at the Freeman Farmhouse, visit with the farm animals, and so much more!

Get hands-on with crafts – There will be holiday craft activities for young and old, or try candle dipping for an additional fee. The households throughout the Village will feature various traditional craft demonstrations including making woolen ornaments, making marzipan treats, knitting Christmas stockings, baking cakes, punching tin lanterns, making pottery, and more.

Hear stories of the season – Listen to readings of The Nativity Gospel of Saint Luke and The Nativity Gospel of Saint Matthew in the Friends Meetinghouse or hear classic Christmas tales being told such as The Night Before Christmas, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and English and Spanish readings of Un Cocqui de Boriquen, a Puerto Rican children’s story.

Enjoy live music and magic – See historical musical performances around the Village including our costumed historians playing various instruments, The OSV Singers (on Sundays), and different local performers each night. There is also a not-to-be-missed magic show with Bob Olsen in the Dennison Gallery!

Find festive foods – Enjoy hot foods and beverages at various locations throughout the museum, including treats that you’ll see being made in the Village. Sample mulled cider, gingerbread, and other favorites of the season. Visit the Bullard Tavern Café and Patio for hearty soups, hot sandwiches, festive desserts, hot and cold beverages, and specialty cocktails. Or enjoy a treat from one of our concession stands in the Countryside or on the Common. There’s also the Ox & Yoke Café with soups, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages on your way into or out of the Village.

Gingerbread house contest – An annual favorite, enter our Gingerbread house baking contest and put your creation on display. Families, professionals, home bakers are all welcome and guests can vote for their favorites! Enter your creation here.

Holiday Express model trains – Come see what the Worcester Model Rail Roaders have in store this year with their charming display of miniature trains.

Visits with Santa – Santa Claus will make an appearance each night for little ones to tell him their special Christmas wish. Come make a craft and meet with the man himself!

Holiday shopping – This year we are proud to have expanded our offering of unique handcrafted holiday items available at the Miner Grant Store and the Ox & Yoke Mercantile each evening during the event. Find craft kits, books, clothing, bath and body, and Village-made ware for your gift-giving list. And new this year, you can shop online at shop.osv.org!

Lodging Packages – For those traveling a distance or meeting family in the area, enjoy a peaceful night at the Old Sturbridge Inn & Reeder Family Lodges. Special packages are available for Christmas.

New this year! Enjoy a members-only night on November 26! There will be a reduced capacity for the evening. Enjoy the Village with less crowds and more fun!

Ticket Information

Beginning October 13 advance tickets are on sale to members for a special, member-only discount. Ticket sales will launch to the general public on October 27 with early bird rates through November 23.

Tickets sell quickly so consider the benefits of membership and get your tickets now. Not a member? Membership is a gift that keeps giving all year long. Explore the benefits of membership at www.osv.org/membership/.

Tickets for Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village must be purchased online in advance. Read details at www.osv.org/christmas.

Second Chance Helping 16 Cats Rescued from Challenging Conditions 

Two Pregnant Cats Mean More on the Way

NORTH BROOKFIELD, MA (OCTOBER 10, 2023) — Second Chance Animal Services recently took in 16 cats rescued from a challenging living situation in a nearby town. The cats are now safe, and Second Chance is asking for the public’s support as efforts are underway to provide them with the love, attention, and medical care they deserve. At this time, the nonprofit estimates the cost of their care will exceed $10,000.

The rescued cats, ranging in age from 9 months to 5 years with the majority falling in the 2–3-year range, were brought to Second Chance’s Almost Home facility adjacent to their North Brookfield Community Veterinary Hospital. Here they each received a thorough check-up to assess their needs. Despite their challenging past, the majority of the cats are incredibly friendly, showcasing the resilience and spirit of these remarkable animals. There are two pregnant cats who are currently being cared for in foster homes.  

Some of the cats were spayed or neutered this week. Six will need dental surgery and eight of the cats are currently receiving specialized medical attention for various health issues, including upper respiratory infections (URI), skin conditions, and eye and ear problems.

Two of the rescued cats, affectionately named Beetlejuice and Hippo, will be available for adoption later this week. Interested adopters are encouraged to watch the nonprofits website for more information.

To support the medical needs and ongoing care of these cats, Second Chance has launched a fundraising campaign. The funds raised will help to cover veterinary bills, medications, and the unique care requirements of each cat. For more information about the cats or to make a donation, visit: www.secondchanceanimals.org/16cats.

PHOTOS: SOME OF THE 16 AFTER THEIR ARRIVAL AT SECOND CHANCE.

North Brookfield Savings Bank Named Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation

NORTH BROOKFIELD– North Brookfield Savings Bank, a local North Brookfield icon, was just named among the top extraordinary banks in the United States by The Institute for Extraordinary Banking™.

NBSB was recognized with the Institute’s Banky™ Award for its commitment to strong community banking. This recognition is given to top community banks across the country to help people find the best banks in their communities.

“At our Bank, we firmly believe that a thriving community is built on providing individuals with the necessary support and resources for success. Our dedication goes beyond simply offering financial services; we strive to make a genuine and lasting impact on people's lives.” said Kaz Borawski, President & CEO of North Brookfield Savings Bank, “Through innovative community outreach programs, educational initiatives, and responsive lending practices, we empower individuals and local businesses to flourish and positively contribute to the growth of our community. We are honored to have been named an extraordinary institution that uplifts every individual and family within our community by fostering a better future for themselves and their loved ones.”

The Extraordinary Banking™ Awards emphasize the indispensable contribution community banks have on their communities—how deeply woven into the fabric of the community they are. Their role in elevating the national economy is profound yet often misunderstood.

Community banks are the beacon that illuminates their local communities and the pillar of small business success.

Roxanne Emmerich, Chair and Founder of The Institute for Extraordinary Banking™, proclaimed during the awards ceremony: “Community banks recognize aspirations, dreams, and silent hopes of small businesses and individuals within their communities. The heart and soul of an extraordinary community bank is the visionary blueprint for the community's success and ability to enact that plan. Those banks were chosen to receive this year’s Banky awards.”

To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank, visit www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.

Dexter Factory Outlet | 44 River Street | Southbridge, MA 01550 | 800-343-6042

33rd Annual Walktober

September 16 to November 5, 2023

We're celebrating 33 years of Walktober in 2023! Our many partners are helping to make this Walktober incredible and shine a light on this amazing National Heritage Corridor. We have wide-open spaces to explore with more than 280 walks, hikes, historic tales, paddles, bike rides, farm visits and more offered by dedicated and passionate Walktober leaders and the generous sponsors that make it happen. Thank you to them all!

You can also get your copy of the Walktober 2023 Guide at the NEW Visitor Information Center!

(1A River Road, Sturbridge)

Visit online for the calendar of events and more information: thelastgreenvalley.org/explore/walktober/

Phantoms by Firelight at Old Sturbridge Village

Friday - Sunday, October 6th - 29th

A Halloween experience of epic—and eerie—proportions!

As the sun sets at Old Sturbridge Village this October, come see Phantoms by Firelight. Explore the myths and folklore of Halloween at the museum. Evening guests will see the Village in a darker, more eerie light. Adding to the experience is a mysterious troupe of performers who have taken over the Village with their captivating performances.

Visit the webpage for details and tickets. www.osv.org/event/phantoms-by-firelight/

My Son is Crazy, But Promising

Gateway Players Theatre of Southbridge presents “My Son is Crazy, But Promising” by Tim Kelly. Presented by permission through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals. Performances will be held on October 6, 7, 13, 14 at 7:30pm & October 15 at 2pm. All performances will be held at the Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street in Southbridge. Parking is available on Elm Street, or in the parking deck behind the Southbridge Town Hall.

This production will be directed by Mikey Dearn, and produced by Lynn Boucher. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for seniors and youth under 18. Tickets may be reserved by calling Gateway at 508-764-4531. Online credit card ticket sales are available at gateway-players.ticketleap.com/my-son-is-crazy-but-promising

Ox Weekend at Old Sturbridge Village

October 14–15, 9:30 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.

Oxen are domesticated cattle trained to work as draft animals. A “yoke” of oxen was often cheaper to buy than horses and that made them the farm machinery of the 1830s. Farmers used them to haul goods to town in wagons, haul lumber for building, and round the farm and to do the heavy work of plowing fields.

On this weekend the oxen team at Old Sturbridge Village will display their talents as they host visiting oxen teams from other farms and compete in plowing matches, obstacle courses, and parades. Guests can even try hand plowing with the oxen. All activities are part of standard daytime admission. To buy tickets go to https://www.osv.org/event/ox-weekend/.

Fall Fest at Foskett

Friday, October 13, 2023, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Camp Foskett, 189 Daniels Road, Charlton, MA

Join us for a Spooktacular night featuring a not so scary movie, costume party, bobbing for apples, face painting, and so much more!

For more information please visit ymcaofcm.org or call 508-765-5466 ext. 7101

October Walks with Opacum!

Opacum Woods Historic Stone Features - October 14, 2023 

Back by popular demand! Take a walk with a different perspective at Opacum Woods with Archaeologists Al Smith and Ed Hood to explore the historic farm site and intriguing stone features of this property. The walk is off-trail on uneven terrain, about a mile long, and will take about 3 hours. PLEASE RSVP as space is limited for the walk (20 people). Part of The Last Green Valley's Walktober Series. 

When: October 14, 2023 at 10 AM 

Where: The tour will depart from the trailhead at the end of Old Brook Circle, Google Map ref. 2-8 Old Brook Circle, Sturbridge, MA. Park at the end of the cul-de-sac. 

Cost: Free (RSVP required)

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER: www.opacumlt.org/events/opacum-woods-historic-stone-features-walk/

Explore Trails at Claire Birtz and Morse Properties - October 22, 2023 

Join Opacum Land Trust in taking an autumn hike at the Gradon & Virginia Morse Woodland Preserve and Claire Birtz Wildlife Sanctuary Preserve. Moderate terrain, the walk will take 2-3 hours and cover about 2 miles on this loop trail. PLEASE RSVP as space is limited for the walk (20 people). Part of The Last Green Valley's Walktober Series. 

When: October 22, 2023 at 1 PM 

Where: The Claire Birtz Wildlife Sanctuary Preserve and Gradon and Virginia Morse Woodland Preserve are located at 444 Tipton Rock Rd in Southbridge, MA. 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). Park at the trailhead parking area on Tipton Rock Rd. 

Cost: Free (RSVP required)

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER: www.opacumlt.org/events/explore-trails-at-claire-birtz-and-morse-properties/

ROCKTOBER CONCERT! The Eagles Experience

October 14 @ 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Brimfield Winery

Featuring: The Eagles Experience – 6PM – 9Pm

Gates open 4 PM Warm up: Larry Simonetti 4:00 PM

Food Truck: Flippin the Bird BBQ -Come early for dinner!

Tickets are only available at drive in- Only $50 a CAR LOAD.

RAIN OR SHINE

THE EAGLES EXPERIENCE aims to be the most authentic tribute show to the Eagles available today. There are many great bands on the road that market themselves as a “Tribute to the Eagles” or a “Tribute to Eagles music”, but this does not make them an actual “TRIBUTE SHOW”. With a one-to-one lineup that reflects the Eagles during their heyday in the late 1970s, the members of THE EAGLES EXPERIENCE each emulate their respective “Eagle”, playing the correct instrument and singing the songs as sung by their protégé.

See more online! brimfieldwinery.com/event/rocktober-concert-the-eagles-experience/

Palermo is the capital of the Italian island of Sicily. Palermo cuisine shows traces of all cultures that have existed on the island of Sicily over the last two millennia.

Although Palermo cuisine has a lot in common with today’s Italian cuisine, Sicilian food has distinct Greek, Spanish, French and Arab influences. Much of the island's cuisine encourages the use of fresh vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes, pasta, and fresh fish.

In this Cooking with Rico series, Rico will demonstrate how with just a few regional ingredients, simple and hearty Palermo inspired dishes can be prepared. 

This event is $52 per person, tax and gratuity are not included. Wine, beer, and cocktails are available from our bar at an extra cost. Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321.

Scoops of Hope & Center of Hope Foundation invite you to join us &

Touch A Truck

Where: Scoops of Hope, 54 Foster Street, Southbridge, MA

When: October 21, 2023

Time: 11 am - 2 pm

Cost: FREE

Touch-A-Truck is a community event for kids and their families to explore giant trucks, fire trucks, police vehicles, and other massive machines. Kids will be able to touch the trucks, climb aboard and explore, honk the horn, and pretend to drive these massive machines! There will be free games, crafts, music, & more!

For more information follow us on social @scoopsofhope

or contact us at [email protected].

Scoops of Hope, a division of the Center of Hope Foundation, Inc., provides meaningful employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while offering delicious ice cream and more to the Southbridge community.

Stew & Story

Gateway Players Theatre and The Women's Fellowship of Elm Street Congregational Church are combining to present a fun evening of food and entertainment. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 21st at 5:30 pm in Fellowship Hall at Elm Street Church, 61 Elm Street in Southbridge. The menu includes beef stew, salad, rolls, dessert, and beverages. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for children 10 and under, and must be purchased by October 15th. They can be purchased/reserved by calling the church office at 508-765-8058, Gateway Players Theatre at 508-764-4531, or Harriet Lacasse at 508-347-3464.

The entertainment will be a staged reading of "The Wacky Horror Cyber Show" presented by Gateway Players Theatre. Gateway Players Theatre is very happy to be doing a joint fundraiser with the Women's Fellowship of Elm Street Church - which highlights our respective talents. We do the theater - and they provide the food!

As summer fades into fall, we have a special but limited time in our region to take advantage of the bounties of the late summer growing season.

Head Chef Joe Milillo and his culinary team are eager to create a multi-course harvest dinner, highlighting ingredients with the distinctive flavors that only this special season can bring. You’ll also learn about some of the locally grown or raised treasures right in our own community.

The cost for this special dinner is $58 per person and includes a special themed autumn cocktail, wine, or beer. These dinners often sell out quickly so make your reservations now by calling 508-347-2321. Hope to see you there!

Visit www.greenpathcannabis.com for further info

Join the Central Mass Library Advocates

for the Annual Trivia Night fundraiser!

Friday, November 3 

Sturbridge Host Hotel Doors open at 6:30 - Trivia starts at 7pm 

We will be joined by Guest Emcee, Representative Michael Soter!

$10 per person - Teams of up to 8 people. 

Register your team here: https://forms.gle/7URXCXQGXyAjXHuRA 

Don't have a team but want to be a part of the fun? We will put together a team for you! Register a player here: https://forms.gle/XL32FsJowFyb6vFR6

Select Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from November through April.

Join us for a special dining event as the Innkeepers at the Salem Cross Inn announce their series of 1700's style feasts, prepared on the open hearth of a great fieldstone fireplace. Relax by the fire as dinner is prepared for you in colonial style. Stir the chowder as it bubbles in our cast iron cauldron over a crackling fire. See your prime rib, roasted 'to a turn,' as the only known authentic Roasting Jack still operating in America rotates slowly over a crackling fire of wild cherry logs. Beware the brimming bowl of freshly whipped cream - the perfect complement to New England's best apple pie. While your dinner is cooking to perfection, enjoy a horse drawn wagon or sleigh ride through the valley on the Inn's pristine 600 acres. Shake off the chill with warm mulled wine or cider upon your return. Browse our extensive collection of colonial and federal period American antiques. The Fireplace Feast makes a thoughtful and unique gift for special friends or deserving associates. VIEW THE FIREPLACE FEAST BROCHURE HERE.

The Fireplace Feast is just one of our many dining events that provides an authentic colonial experience. At Salem Cross Inn, we capture the history and culture of 1700's America. Salem Cross Inn's dining events, excellent cuisine, and atmosphere have been featured on Food Network's "The Best Of," WCVB TV5 Boston's "Chronicle" and chosen as the "Hidden Jewel" by Boston's Phantom Gourmet and WGBY. SEE MORE DETAILS AND GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!



Spend Your Turkey Day with Us!

Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is right around the corner! Have you made plans for the big day yet? Let Salem Cross Inn take care of all the cooking, serving, and cleaning this year so you can relax and spend more time with your loved ones!

We'll be taking reservations from 11:30am to 3pm on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 23.

SEE THE THANKSGIVING MENU HERE!

To enjoy this incredible feast, the cost is $65 for adults and $25 for children's turkey dinner for those 10 and under.

Non-refundable payment and entrée selections are required upon making your reservation.

Tables fill up fast, so be sure to call us as soon as possible to secure yours!

Reservations can be made by calling 508-867-2345. If you are unable to reach us by phone, please leave a message and a daytime callback number so we can get back to you as soon as possible.

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