Welcome to the last CROSSROADS of 2022!
We hope to see you at our biggest party of the year, Holiday Fun at Five at The Publick House on the evening of December 20th! The next afternoon, we'll be at Brush It Off Art & Pottery Studio in Sturbridge to celebrate the 10 Year Anniversary of the studio with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony and reception! In January, the Chamber will present An Evening with Steven the Medium at The Barn at Wight Farm! You will find all the details on these events and more in this issue.
Thank you for SHOPPING LOCAL this holiday season and we wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. Thank you for entering your upcoming Holiday offerings on our NEW Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS.
NEXT ISSUE: JANUARY 4, 2023
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CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
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.
HOLIDAY HOURS
The Chamber offices will CLOSE at 1:00PM on December 23, 2022
and remain CLOSED until 9:00AM on January 3, 2023 to accommodate staff vacations.
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Holiday Fun at Five!
Tuesday, December 20, 5:00-8:00pm
The Publick House, 277 Main Street, Sturbridge
Join us for some holiday cheer with our Members and Guests on the evening of Tuesday, December 20th!
Be a part of the celebration at The Publick House in Sturbridge featuring fantastic food, a festive atmosphere in a glowing hall, NEW activities and great prizes, a 50/50 Raffle, and our chance to celebrate the season with you!
Activities include:
Dress as Your Favorite Holiday Character Contest
Ugly Sweater Contest
Stick the Nose on Rudolph
Holiday Bingo
Reindeer Ring Toss
and
Stuffed Stocking Silent Auction
What is a Stuffed Stocking Silent Auction? Glad you asked!
Members are encouraged to donate a holiday stocking to our silent auction. A portion of proceeds will be used to purchase gift cards for teenagers in need. Stocking can be filled with product you make or sell, you can fill the stocking based on a theme, or use a tiny holiday stocking for a gift card – the possibilities are endless.
Let Alix know if you will be making a donation to our Stuffed Stocking Silent Auction.
Thank you!
We look forward to celebrating with you at Holiday Fun at Five...
COST
$20 for Members who register, $25 at the door, or $30 for non-Members.
RSVP TO REGISTER
PLEASE RSVP BY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16!
Help us help our hosts at The Publick House receive an accurate count,
so they can have plenty of goodies for all of us! Thank you!
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Thank you to our Holiday Fun at Five Sponsor!
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In a world where people have more choices than ever about how and where to manage their finances, Cornerstone Bank inspires a true feeling of confidence among the customers who entrust us with their financial well-being.
Where large banks lack personal attention, and local banks lack depth and expertise, Cornerstone builds trust with its business and retail customers through respectful, reliable relationships, problem-solving proficiency, and an unwavering commitment to community.
Cornerstone Bank rests on the foundation that relationships are built on trust.
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10 Year Anniversary & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!
Brush It Off Art & Pottery Studio
December 21, 4:00-6:00pm
559 Main Street, Sturbridge Marketplace, Sturbridge, MA
774-241-3444
The Chamber of Central Mass South cordially invites you to attend the 10th Anniversary of Brush It Off along with the Grand Opening of the Brush It Off Pottery Studio. All are welcome to join in on Wednesday, December 21st from 4:00 to 6:00pm as studio owner Denise Morgan introduces and welcomes her guests to the "Art Wing and Patio" of the Sturbridge Marketplace at the Falls.
Meet 25 year veteran Master Potter Dave Hebert who teaches Brush It Off's Pottery classes Monday through Fridays. Dave will be demonstrating his techniques on the Pottery Wheel at the event. You’ll also have the opportunity to mingle with members of the Brush It Off team who provide loads of Paint Fun at the studio every Wednesday through Sunday.
At the anniversary celebration, beer and wine will be available from the Brush It Off bar along with complimentary finger snacks from a local bakery and catering company for all guests to enjoy. And just in time for Christmas, Brush It Off will have door prizes, gift certificates to the studio and other cool giveaways!
The Chamber of Central Mass South will present the Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 4:00pm sharp. The ceremony will include presentations by local dignitaries and the snipping of the official red ribbon followed by the Grand Opening and 10th Anniversary Celebration! Everyone is welcome and we hope you join in as the Chamber and our guests provide a warm welcome, congratulations, and best wishes for the future to Denise Morgan and the entire Brush It Off team! There is no cost and no need to RSVP.
Brush It Off Art & Pottery Studio is located in Sturbridge Marketplace at the Falls, 559 Main Street, Sturbridge (Fiskdale). Visit Brush It Off online at www.brush-it-off.com or reach the studio by phone at 774-241-3444.
Everyone is Welcome!
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An Evening with Steven the Medium
Thursday, January 19, 2023, 6:30-8:30pm
The Winthrop Room at The Barn at Wight Farm
420 Main Street, Sturbridge
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Medium ∙ Attorney ∙ Intuitive ∙ Healer ∙ Radio Host ∙ Teacher
Steven F. Macek—better known as Steven the Medium—is a nationally renowned medium who has been developing a connection to Spirit for the past ten years. Steven is a bridge between the spirit world and our day-to-day, physical world—relaying messages and insight from those who have passed on to people seeking answers in the here and now.
Have you been missing your loved ones who have passed? Maybe you just need to know they are OK? Please join us for this special event at The Barn at Wight Farm on the evening of January 19th. One simple validation can change your life!
Steven will connect attendees to the spirit world through live readings—delivering detailed, powerful, and sometimes humorous messages from the other side. In addition, he will read a number of handwritten notes, transcribed word-for-word from your loved ones in Spirit to their intended recipients in the audience.
The Chamber is excited to present this special evening in the beautiful Winthrop Room at The Barn at Wight Farm. The event will include a full bar and Steven will offer two raffles for free readings. Tickets are $39 for Chamber Members and $45 for non-Members.
LEARN MORE ABOUT STEVEN THE MEDIUM
For most of my life, I had no idea that I had an ability to communicate with Spirit. There were no great signs during my youth, except perhaps not wanting to visit my dad’s grave. He died when I was eight years old and when I was a teenager, my mother and brother would get upset when I didn’t want to go to the cemetery. In hindsight, I felt a strong connection with my father—I didn’t need to go to the cemetery to feel his presence.
In 2010, Spirit set me on a path to mediumship when my husband, Elix, and I attended an event of a well-known Massachusetts medium. The venue was full, with over 100 people hoping to be chosen for a reading. When the medium was about to begin, she walked over to me and said, “You are a medium but don’t know it.” She then walked away and never approached me again.
Although intrigued, I didn’t act on this information right away. My interest in spirit communication piqued years later when Elix registered me for a mediumship training and encouraged me to simply embrace the learning process and the experience. I loved it immediately! Eager to hone my skills and learn as much as possible, I worked with some of the world’s most well-respected teachers to develop an understanding of my abilities and how to use them. In 2013, I earned a certification as a medium from the Imagine Spirit Intuitive Arts Institute in Arizona.
This profession as a medium allows me to fulfill my purpose of helping others in a completely different way than law does. My mission is to connect with those in Spirit to share messages that offer healing, love, and guidance. Clients often leave my office with a newfound sense of peace, connection, and a distinct clarity that they didn’t have before. It’s a beautiful thing to see someone change in real-time. Especially when someone is hanging on to grief or some type of burden. Feeling those energies and auras change is the most rewarding aspect of what I do. My mediumship has also led me to help others discover and develop their own psychic abilities, which is so satisfying.
Two years ago, I created my signature “A Whisper in a Note”. I ask someone in spirit to stand next to me and dictate to me what they want me to write down for their loved one who is here on earth. I use software to scan the note and include a visual recording explaining every word, every sentence and emotion their loved one in spirit was feeling when they dictated what I wrote in the note.
It has been a great, fulfilling ride—and this is just the beginning! Visit Steven online at www.steventhemedium.com.
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With Gratitude to our Sponsor
for An Evening with Steven the Medium
Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home
The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home is dedicated to providing services to the families of Southbridge, Sturbridge, Charlton Massachusetts and surrounding communities with care and compassion.
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Get Great Exposure for Your Business!
Sponsor an upcoming Chamber event!
Our Promotions Committee is hard at work planning the schedule of Chamber happenings including 2023 FUN at FIVE networking events. We are actively seeking businesses that would be interested in sponsoring these events.
Our event sponsors are given positive exposure and enthusiastic crowds that are eager to share the good word about your business with their friends, neighbors and business contacts!
If your company would be interested in being a sponsor for these upcoming events, or would like more information about sponsorship, please contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or email alexandra_mcnitt@cmschamber.org.
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New Chamber & Tourism Websites!
Members, create your profile on the new Chamber website: www.cmschamber.org. Login to the "members only" Info Hub to create your Account. Click the Member Login button at the top of the home page to get started. Your email address must be in our new system for you to be instantly approved. If it is not, give us a ring or email and we can add your email address from our end.
Once you have joined, you will be able access vital resources, advertise your upcoming events, post any Hot Deals you may be offering, register for Chamber events, post Member 2 Member discounts, pay invoices, even create Job Postings to recruit new employees!
Also, take a peek at www.sturbridgetownships.com, the new tourism site for visitors to our area. If you post your event to the Chamber calendar and it is tourism related, we will feature it on the Sturbridge Townships page, too!
We look forward to your feedback!
If you run into technical issues or questions, don't hesitate to drop us an email or call 508-347-2761.
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FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT
508-347-2111
Members, use your M2M Card, get 10% off bulk products.
Click on the M2M logo to view all the M2M deals!
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NBSB’S Kelly Connelly Selected for NMP’s “40 Under Forty” Class of 2022!
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North Brookfield, MA— North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to announce that Kelly Connelly, First Vice President/Director of Mortgage Lending at North Brookfield Savings Bank, has been chosen by National Mortgage Professional for their “40 Under Forty”- Class of 2022. A panel of judges reviewed several nominations and concluded that Kelly’s credentials, accomplishments, and contributions to the Banking Industry make her a distinctive leader.
“I am humbled and honored to have been nominated and included amongst such an incredible group of inspirational leaders in our industry,” said Kelly Connelly. “I am beyond grateful to my teams and mentors, both past and present, who have continuously placed their faith in me and provided opportunities for me to evolve and grow throughout my career.”
Kelly started her Banking career in 2009 and as she expanded her experience from retail to lending, she quickly found herself in leadership roles. She was most recently at Hingham Institution for Savings for 7.5 years where she started out as the Collections Officer for the first 3 years of her time there which included managing OREO, foreclosures, and portfolio risk. After successfully streamlining these functions of lending with Hingham Institution for Savings, Kelly took over the oversight of Loan Operations and Residential Lending where she streamlined a high level of manual tasks within the departments using outsourced technology and internal low code automation.
Kelly constantly goes above and beyond to seek inefficiencies and develop solutions with a continuous improvement attitude. She is always looking for the best way to serve the Bank, the customer, and the community. Kelly has received a variety of training in several fields that give her a unique position on many processes. Kelly currently holds the following degrees and certificates: Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School, BSBS from New England College of Business in Banking & Finance, 2021 Certification for Massachusetts Bankers Association School of Commercial Lending and 2021 Certification for Massachusetts Bankers Association Compliance Academy. Kelly embodies our core values here at NBSB through her commitment to our communities, operational excellence, team building with kindness, integrity, and teamwork through the well-rounded work she produces.
Congratulations to not only our very own, Kelly Connelly, but the entire 2022 class of NMP’S 40 under 40 for their unwavering efforts, steadfast attitude, and unmatched experience.
About NMP’S 40 Under 40
In every profession, the future is written by the young. They bring fresh perspectives, new energy, innovative approaches, and fiery passion that are critical to keeping business thriving. While those with more years on them may bring wisdom borne of experience, the young bring perspective unhindered by dogma, unconstrained by convention. That’s why features such as this one, that peek at the promise of so many, are important. We need to step back, even if only once a year, and appreciate that there are up-and-comers across the mortgage world who are actively scanning the profession with fresh eyes and making it better, with enthusiasm. Learn more about National Mortgage Professional here: nationalmortgageprofessional.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 the 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 it serves since 1854. All deposits are insured by the FDIC and the Depositors Insurance Fund. North Brookfield Savings Bank was voted Best Bank in Central Massachusetts for 2021 and was named “Community Icon” Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation in 2022. For more information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.
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Country Bank Announces Promotions
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Country Bank Promotions (l-r): Scott Emerson, Jason Bourbeau, Dianna Lussier and Lisa DiMarzio
December 2, 2022 - Country Bank, a full-service financial intuition serving Central and Western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce recent promotions.
Lisa DiMarzio and Scott Emerson have been promoted to First Vice Presidents. Lisa oversees the bank's Compliance and Community Reinvestment Area. She has worked in various positions as a long-tenured team member with 36 years at Country Bank. Lisa holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Anna Maria College. In addition, she is a graduate of The New England School for Financial Studies and the American Bankers Association - Stonier Graduate School of Banking, where she also earned a Wharton Leadership Certification.
Scott Emerson has over 20 years of experience in the technology industry and has been an essential part of the Innovation and Technology team at Country Bank for the last 17 years. Scott holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from UMass Amherst and has completed several technology-related certifications throughout the course of his career.
Dianna Lussier, who oversees the Risk Management area, has been promoted to Vice President. Dianna has been with Country Bank for 18 years. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Worcester State University with a concentration in Finance and Accounting. Dianna is also a graduate of The Massachusetts Bankers New England School for Financial Studies. She is currently attending the American Bankers Association - Stonier Graduate School of Banking and completing her Wharton Leadership Certification.
Jason Bourbeau was promoted to Technology Architecture Officer. Jason has been with Country Bank for eight years, earned an Associate's Degree in Computer Systems Engineering from Springfield Technical Community College, and is certified as a Cisco Network Professional.
"We are excited to announce these promotions, not just in recognition of these team members' contributions to the bank's success but also because each individual's history with the bank demonstrates the various career paths available in community banking. We are committed to helping each team member identify their career goals and work with them to reach those objectives. Their actions contribute to the bank's overall success, and we're pleased to be able to promote these individuals for their dedication to the organization," said Miriam Siegel, First Senior Vice President, Chief Culture and Development Officer of Country Bank.
About Country Bank
Country Bank is one of the most highly capitalized mutual savings banks in the Commonwealth offering full-service consumer and commercial banking services. Country Bank serves Central and Western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton, Springfield 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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UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Welcomes Xingzi "Shirley" Shangguan, MD
to Southbridge Family Medicine Practice
SOUTHBRIDGE, MA, December 9 , 2022 – UMass Memorial Health – Harrington (UMHH) has welcomed Xingzi "Shirley" Shangguan, MD to its Family Medicine practice located at 100 South Street, Suite 208 in Southbridge, Massachusetts. To schedule an appointment, call 508-765- 7899.
Dr Shangguan is board-certified in Family Medicine. She also holds a Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine and is co-author of a number of sports medicine papers published in a variety of medical journals. In addition, she has presented on various topics related to sports medicine to medical residents as well as at various medical conferences, and has provided sports medicine physician coverage for high school and collegiate-level athletic teams and events.
Besides her primary care and sports medicine clinical experience, Dr. Shangguan has participated in medical research studies at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Hudson Valley Heart Center and Vassar College.
Prior to this most recent role, Dr. Shangguan provided care in Family Medicine and Urgent Care at the University of Miami Family Medicine Clinic. She earned her medical degree from St. George’s University in Grenada and went on to complete a residency in Family Medicine at New York University in Brooklyn, New York as well as a fellowship in Sports Medicine at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California.
UMHH Family Medicine providers care for all ages, from birth through adulthood. They provide comprehensive primary care with a scope of services that ranges from well visits to acute care, in both the inpatient and outpatient environment. For more information, visit harringtonhospital.org.
UMass Memorial Health – Harrington provides outstanding health care to patients in more than 25 communities throughout south central Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. We are dedicated to our role as the health and wellness partner of the people in our communities and we are relentless in the pursuit of healing. Our comprehensive array of health care services and locations provides our patients with unparalleled access to care. Harrington Hospital in Southbridge provides medical and surgical inpatient care, 24-hour emergency services, inpatient adult psychiatry, an intensive care unit and comprehensive outpatient services. Harrington Hospital at Webster, Harrington at Charlton, Harrington at 169 and Harrington at Sturbridge offer primary care and specialty physicians, diagnostic imaging and more. Harrington Physician Services is our primary care and multi-specialty physician group, UrgentCare Express at Harrington in Oxford serves as a walk-in medical center for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, and the Cancer Center at Harrington in Southbridge allows patients to receive advanced, local oncological and hematology care.
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Country Bank Supports Senior Centers
with $42,000 in Donations
December 9, 2022 - Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, recently announced donations to 21 local senior centers throughout the region.
Supporting communities has been part of Country Bank’s mission since 1850, the bank is committed to the people, businesses and non-profits it serves. A total of $42,000 in donations were made to local senior centers. These donations are made without restriction for those necessary items that may not be met within annual budgets.
“Everyone at the West Brookfield Senior Center appreciates the partnership that’s been established with Country Bank. We will be using the $2,000 to support our senior center programs and activities and will use some of the funds for our annual Christmas Party,” stated Betty Frew, Assistant Director.
“We know what a difference this makes for the senior centers and we are honored to be able to support the great work that they do to help our seniors,” said Jodie Gerulaitis, Vice President of Community Relations at Country Bank.
In addition to its annual monetary support, Country Bank also sends teams of its “Difference Makers” to volunteer at local senior centers on a monthly basis.
The bank’s volunteer team which they dub, “Difference Makers” keeps busy throughout the year, but during the holiday season, there is always an extra-special feeling for them when they give back to their home town and its seniors, stated Gerulaitis.
PHOTO: (Left to right) Brede Woods, Susan Raymond, Betty Frew, Assistant Director at the West Brookfield Senior Center and Elise Kowal, Retail Banking Officer at Country Bank West Brookfield Banking Center.
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North Brookfield Savings Bank Named a 2022 WWCMA WorkWell
Massachusetts Awards Winner for Exemplary Worksite Health Promotion
Award recognizes successful corporate health improvement and wellness program
North Brookfield, MA – North Brookfield Savings Bank, a local community bank in Worcester County is proud to have been named a 2022 WorkWell Massachusetts Awards program Award Winner in the small group category for exemplary worksite health promotion. The awards, powered by Healthiest Employers, recognizes North Brookfield Savings Bank’s achievements in providing best-in-class programs and supporting employees through a culture of well-being.
The Bank believes that supporting the whole employee and their families is important, weather it is health, financial or mental wellness, in total they all play into how an employee shows up as their best selves each day.
“Given all of the unique challenges that organizations have been facing over the last few years, our goal is to recognize those companies that are finding ways to approach well-being in a more holistic way, and meet the needs of employees and their families,” says Jenna Carter, WWCMA Board Director and Awards & Recognition Committee Co-Chair.
“With the tremendous pressure to be an employer of choice, there’s an emphasis to build well-being into the fabric of their workplace. These organizations foster an environment where employees can thrive in and are empowered through various tools, resources, and communication to be their best selves,” explains Archana Kansagra, WWCMA Board Director; Awards & Recognition Committee Co-Chair, and founder of the WorkWell MA Awards program.
WorkWell Massachusetts Awards is a corporate award program created by WWCMA, a not-for-profit member organization dedicated to the advancement of worksite wellness programs. WWCMA is partnering with Healthiest Employers, a trusted national awards program that recognizes people-first organizations taking a proactive approach to employee health.
The judging is based on each organization's Healthiest Employers Index — a metric focused on six categories: Culture and Leadership Commitment, Foundational Components, Strategic Planning, Communications and Marketing, Programming and Interventions, and Reporting and Analytics. The questionnaire, scoring, and benchmarking were formed with the help of a national, non-biased group of representatives from the academic, medical, and wellness communities. The assessment is scored rubric style on a 1 - 100 scale, with each question totaling .25 - 3 points.
“Employees are the backbone of the Bank, they deserve our support of their physical, mental and financial health. Our programs such as Annual Wellness Week and Year-Round Wellness Challenges, such as the Water Challenge, inspire our employees to think differently about their health and take steps to re-focus on themselves and their health,” said Andrea Healy, FSVP, Chief Administrative and HR Officer.
“We are proud to recognize these innovative employers for their outstanding wellness programs focusing on the health and well-being of their employees, especially with the challenges of a new hybrid work environment,” states Kristie Howard, WWCMA Board Chair.
North Brookfield Savings Bank will be recognized for their best practices in employee health and well-being and receive their WorkWell Massachusetts Award at a special celebration event on Tuesday, December 13 from 6 pm - 10 pm at Lord Hobo Brewing Company in Woburn, MA.
About Worksite Wellness Council of Massachusetts
The Worksite Wellness Council of Massachusetts (WWCMA) is the preeminent, independent, and objective resource for well-being in the workplace. The Council offers innovative wellness best practice education, networking, and training along with insightful resources for use by Massachusetts organizations and their corporate wellness teams. Visit us at wwcma.org and follow us @WorkWellMass.
About Healthiest Employers
Healthiest Employers® is a trusted awards program that recognizes people-first organizations taking a more proactive approach to employee health. Our goal is to be a resource for organizations focused on improving their employees’ health, creating a community invested in their populations' health and wellbeing. Since 2009, Healthiest Employers® has been the leading recognition program for employer wellness.
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UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Welcomes Elias Belezos, MD
to Sturbridge Primary Care Practice
STURBRIDGE, MA, December 12, 2022 – UMass Memorial Health – Harrington (UMHH) has welcomed Elias Belezos, MD to its Primary Care practice located at 198 Charlton Road in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. To schedule an appointment, call 508-765-3145.
Dr Belezos has been Board-certified in Internal Medicine for more than 25 years. He has extensive experience in both adult primary care as well as hospice and palliative care, and also has a particular interest in diabetes management and sports medicine.
Prior to this most recent role, Dr. Belezos served as a primary care physician at Grove Medical Associates in Auburn, MA. He has also served as part of the UMass Memorial Health medical care team in various positions in the past, including as a primary care provider early in his career, and later as director of the UMHH Hospitalist Program.
Dr. Belezos has also previously run his own private primary care practice in Southbridge, Massachusetts and served as medical director for various hospice organizations, as well as a medical consultant for the Boston Red Sox. He earned his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1992 and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA in 1995.
UMHH Internal Medicine providers take pride in providing comprehensive primary care to adults through their senior years, seeing their patients in the primary care office setting as well as in the hospital and even in nursing homes, coordinating care with other healthcare professionals as needed. In addition to the Sturbridge location, UMHH Internal Medicine providers are also available at primary care practices located in Southbridge, Spencer, Webster, and Brimfield. For more information, visit harringtonhospital.org.
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Do you need Marketing help?
David Prouty High School Marketing students can perform work such as maintaining a social media presence, redesigning a website (we use Wix), creating video advertisements, and designing any collateral such as brochures, business cards, direct mail postcards, flyers, etc. for small businesses that don't have a marketing staff. Students can perform these services in two different settings. One is doing work for the business under instructor supervision while they are in the classroom. The second is only for seniors who are qualified for outside placement. These students can work in a co-op placement 3-4 days a week from roughly 11:00-1:00 p.m. as long as they have their own transportation. If you are interested and would like to learn more about these opportunities, please email Peggy Bridges, Marketing, David Prouty High School at bridgesp@sebrsd.org
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Mina and Oreo are Home for the Holidays
Second Chance Helps Two Kittens Beat the Odds for a Very Happy Ending
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EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (December 7, 2022) – Oreo & Mina were just days old when they were found living outside on an abandoned couch with their siblings. The mother cat had not been seen for days and worried neighbors called for help. When Officer Pennachio of the Southbridge Police Department responded, she knew they needed help immediately. She brought the kittens to the nearby Second Chance Animal Services Community Veterinary Hospital in Southbridge.
Second Chance vets examined the kittens who were fighting to survive. Dr. Kat Clark brought them home the night they were found. She said, “They were all cold and hungry, and I syringe fed them for that first night while I was transitioning them to a bottle.” More hospital staff volunteered to bring them home at night so they could receive round the clock care until they were stable enough to go home with a foster experienced in caring for extremely young foster kittens. Sadly, only Oreo and Mina survived.
When the pair were four weeks old, they went home with another Second Chance foster for some extra special TLC. The family next door had just lost both their dog and cat to cancer within days of each other and they were devastated. When Oreo and Mina’s foster learned of their loss, she connected them to Second Chance. The neighbors were able to meet the little ones and fell in love.
“While they can’t replace their new owners’ beloved pets, giving these little babies a home is a win-win,” said Oreo and Mina’s foster who has fostered many pets for Second Chance. She added, “It’s so hard to let go, but it’s funny how things work out.”
Oreo and Mina were officially adopted on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, just in time to be home for the holidays.
Everyone at Second Chance is very happy for Oreo and Mina and their new family according to Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray. “These kittens are very lucky,” says Doray who encourages animal lovers to consider making a donation in their honor for all the pets who need help to stay in their home this holiday season. “Financial uncertainty is bringing more and more pet owners to our doors for help caring for their pets. We are committed to helping keep pets in their home whenever possible.” Donations can be made online a www.secondchanceanimals.org/help or by mail to Second Chance, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515.
PHOTO: Oreo and Mina cuddle together at the home of their Second Chance foster.
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. 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. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.
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Tri-Community YMCA is HIRING!
We are seeking part-time employees to fill vacancies in:
Membership Services,
Wellness,
Child Watch and
Out of School Time.
Apply in person or online.
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The #1 Hispanic Newspaper in MA
The latest digital issue of Vocero Hispano is available on their website.
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com to get started.
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The Dexter Outlet Store has great deals on quality products like kitchen cutlery, kitchen tools, industrial cutlery, tactical knives, and more! First quality as well as factory seconds at discounted prices. Dexter Outlet, 44 River Street, Southbridge, MA
HOLIDAY HOURS: Thursdays 3:30pm – 8:00pm (12/15, 12/22), Saturdays 8:00am – 12:00pm (12/17) CLOSED Saturday December 24
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Christmas by Candlelight 2022
Old Sturbridge Village
December 16, 17, 18, 23, 27, 28, 29, and 30, 2022
Times: 2:00 - 8:00 pm
Experience old and cherished traditions and create new ones at this year’s event, which runs through December 30th. This popular program has sold out in the past so get your tickets early.
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Free Holiday Concert at The Federated Church of Sturbridge & Fiskdale
The Federated Church of Sturbridge & Fiskdale will present a free community Christmas concert on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 7 p.m. in the Church sanctuary. According to music director Andrew Kosiba, the concert will feature holiday favorites from the newly formed Quinebaug Quartet and the church’s Chancel Choir. Admission is free of charge, but a free will offering will be taken during the concert.
The Quinebaug Quartet was founded by four New England based freelance musicians who spend much of their summers playing weddings. During one wedding in the summer of 2021, the four musicians discovered that they were a particularly fun and cohesive combination. They made the decision to continue playing together and the Quinebaug Quartet was born! Each player brings decades of experience playing solo, chamber, orchestral, church and operatic works throughout New England. See more on Facebook.
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Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Gather your friends and family and join us for our annual Christmas Eve Candlelight service on December 24th at 7:00pm as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, and reflect on the true meaning of the season.
For additional information, please call 508-764-8058. Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street, Southbridge, MA 01550
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Christmas Dinner Buffet at The Publick House
Sunday, December 25, 2022
Seatings from 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Adults $55.00 · Children $24.50 (3-12)
(tax & gratuity NOT INCLUDED)
Maximum seating time allotted per each reservation
Reservations Required, Credit Card Required to Hold
72 Hour Cancellation Policy
For Reservations, please call 774-304-1524
PUBLICK HOUSE BREADS
SALADS
ENTREES
CARVING STATION
SEAFOOD & CHARCUTERIE DISPLAY
ACCOMPANIMENTS
CHILDREN’S STATION
DELECTABLE DESSERT STATION
Christmas Eve
Offering our Regular Menu plus Chef Specials! Please contact us at 508-347-7323 ext. 230 to schedule a reservation.
On the Common, 277 Main Street, Route 131, Sturbridge, MA 01566
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The New Year’s Day Antique Collectibles Show
The Journal of Antiques and Collectibles—a national monthly magazine for dealers, collectors, antiquers, and enthusiasts of antique collectibles—will be returning New Year’s Day 2023 to the Sturbridge Host Hotel & Convention Center in Sturbridge, MA with its New Year’s Day Antique Collectibles Show, sponsored by the Sturbridge Tourist Association.
Produced by Weathervane Enterprises, Inc., publisher of Journal of Antiques and Collectibles, the New Year’s Day show will feature 50 hand-selected local and regional dealers covering 11,000 square feet with authentic, quality antiques and antique collectibles. The Antique Collectibles Show made its debut on New Year’s Day 2020, welcoming over 700 guests eager to kick off the New Year with some old finds. This year’s show kicks off with optimism as we all welcome in a new year and a return to doing the things we love.
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FIREPLACE FEASTS: 2023 Tickets Are Still Available
All 2022 Fireplace Feast dates have already sold out, but we still have tickets remaining for 2023, so don't delay!
They make excellent birthday presents, Christmas gifts, or excuses to spend time with your loved ones.
If calling for a reservation is your preference, we’re happy to accommodate! You can still purchase your tickets by calling us at 508-867-2345 during office hours Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 2 pm.
SEE THE DETAILS AND RESERVE YOUR FIREPLACE FEAST DATE ONLINE HERE.
Did the holidays sneak up on you again this year?
Fear not! Salem Cross Inn gift certificates make it easy for you to give the gift of an unforgettable, quintessential farm-to-table experience this holiday season! With our vast range of dining events that are fun for friends and family alike, there's bound to be something for everyone!
Salem Cross Inn is Hiring!
Become a part of our tight-knit team! We’re currently in need of a housekeeper.
OPEN THURSDAY - FRIDAY - SATURDAY: 4:00-8:00
SUNDAY: NOON TO 5:00
*Please note we are closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, & New Year's Day*
508-867-2345
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Looking for more local events? Check out our Facebook Events page for even more from our neighbors and friends! Click here to visit!
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Executive Committee
Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope
Cynthia Saucier, 1st Vice Chair
Country Bank
Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
Board of Directors
Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group
Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank
Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union
Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp
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Dan Friel
Old Sturbridge Village
Christina Hadis-Blackwell
The Center of Hope
Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital
Anthony Marini
BankHometown
Trevor Nielsen
Edward Jones
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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