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Welcome to May's Crossroads! In your inbox on the last day of April, Crossroads is chock-full of important news, fun and informative events, and key dates to save from our Members and friends. Today is the last day to send in your nominations for Local Covid Pandemic Heroes who we will honor at our Business Coming Out Party. In this issue, you'll also meet our newest Member, find great ideas for Mother's Day, and receive important updates from the Department of Family Medical Leave and the SBA's Office of Disaster Assistance, plus a lot more!

Crossroads is our Members' platform to share their latest news with fellow Chamber Members and our community. Thank you for entering your upcoming offerings on our Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in Crossroads. May 15th falls on a Saturday, so Crossroads comes the Friday before!
NEXT ISSUE: MAY 14, 2021.
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.
Last Call for Heroes!
To be honored at our Summer Coming Out Party

Have you heard? The Chamber is planning a humdinger of a coming out party and we can’t wait… BUT, we have to. We are so looking forward to seeing everyone, celebrating with you, enjoying entertainment and libations, and having some laughs. As we await the green light, with the best guess being that this will happen sometime between mid-June and early July, we’re coming up with ways to make this event very special!

Who is your Hero?
We are seeking Local Covid Pandemic Hero nominations from our members, so we can show our appreciation and honor them at this celebration. You may know a healthcare worker, a member of your local police or fire department, an EMT, or just a neighbor who went out of their way to help you get through a difficult time or circumstance over the last year.

Maybe your Covid Hero is the person at church who set up a puzzle swap or a socially distanced drumming circle around a campfire, or someone who inspired a new homebound hobby like playing an instrument, knitting or gardening. Simply email Alix with your nominee’s name and a paragraph or two about their helpful deeds. We’re currently looking into producing a tribute video featuring brief profiles of our heroes and their actions which we’ll get to view during our celebration. We will also have awards to present to these folks who have risked much and gone above and beyond the call in assisting our neighbors and friends during this perilous time.

Want to nominate your Local Covid Pandemic Hero? Please email Alix or give us a call if you have any questions.
Nominations must be received by the deadline: TODAY, April 30, 2021.

Sponsorships & Raffle Donations
The Chamber is also seeking companies that would be interested in sponsoring the event and/or donating raffle items and prizes. We would love for everyone to go home a winner on this night! Email Alix if you would like to know more about sponsorship or contribute cool goodies for our raffles. We have four sponsorship levels:

Platinum Sponsor - $5,000 THANK YOU KARL STORZ!
               Includes name and logo prominently on all promotion with links, mentions at event and 8 tickets
Gold Sponsors - $1000–5000
               Includes name and logo on all promotion with links, mentions at event and 4 tickets
Silver Sponsors - $500-1000
               Includes name on all promotion with links, mentions at event and 2 tickets
Bronze Sponsors - $250-500
               Includes name on all promotion with links, mention at event

Stay tuned as party plans develop and we’re keeping our fingers crossed that we will soon see the yellow light turn to GREEN for GO!
An Important Request from the Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML). 

Every MA employer must assign a leave administrator to DFML. Beginning May 11th, action is required to ensure uninterrupted access to DFML accounts. 

If you are the Leave Administrator or Human Resources representative currently managing claims for Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML), DFML will be requiring you to authenticate your employer account starting May 11th. This helps protect your employees and your company information. Join us for a Webinar to walk through the process on May 6th from 12-1 p.m.

To authenticate your employer account, you will need information contained in the quarterly contributions return filed with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR). In order to prepare for this, we are asking employers to work with the person or organization that is registered to manage their MassTaxConnect account. The registered tax administrator will need to Log into MassTaxConnect and copy contribution information from the most recent period for which you, as the employer, have filed. 

As the Leave Administrator, you will need to keep this information on hand so you can verify your employer account on May 11th. Walk through the process to learn more. 

  • If you manage leave for multiple companies, you will need to complete this process for each Employer ID number (EIN) on your account.

  • If you have a $0 contributions balance with DOR, your registered tax administrator can rectify the account by following these instructions.

  • If your administrator has questions about MassTaxConnect or PFML contributions, they can call (617) 887-6367.

  • If you have questions about your employer account, please call (833) 344-7365.
Shuttered Venue Operators Grant
This grant provides emergency assistance for eligible venues affected by COVID-19.

The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, and amended by the American Rescue Plan Act. The program includes over $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues, to be administered by SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance.

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!
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.
Would you be interested in serving on our Board of Directors?
 
We are currently accepting letters of interest from Members in good standing who would be interested in serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors.
 
Service on the Board is typically a 3-year term though we currently have four vacancies with remaining terms between 1 and 2.5 years. All openings are renewable in future terms. This is an excellent opportunity for members to build leadership skills in their employees.
 
The Chamber's Board of Directors is responsible for the Chamber's governance, ensuring its financial stability, setting policies, and assisting the Chamber in carrying out its mission and objectives.
 
Board members must regularly attend and actively participate in scheduled Board meetings, hold a seat on at least one Chamber committee, demonstrate public support for the Chamber, volunteer and assist in recruiting new Members, act as ambassadors and advocates, and lend their expertise in support of the Chamber's mission and objectives.
 
If you would like to serve, please send a letter of interest to Alix by Friday, April 30, 2021.
 
Mailing Address:
Alexandra McNitt
Chamber of Central Mass South
46 Hall Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
 
 
Feel free to call if you have further questions. 508-347-2761.
Welcome, New Member!

The Chamber of Central Mass South is very pleased to welcome our new members!
Heal Sturbridge, Inc.
OPENING SOON!
Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary (Recreational)
660 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA, 508-492-2010

Join the team! Heal Sturbridge is holding a JOB FAIR On May 7 & 8! Details are below!
FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER DISCOUNT!

508-764-3349
Free dessert with the purchase of entree


Click on the M2M logo to see this and many more great offers from Members... for Members!
Cornerstone Bank to hold Young Professionals Day, Saturday, May 1
Professional development and networking event at Old Sturbridge Village

WORCESTER Mass. Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, will host Young Professionals Day on Saturday, May 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Bullard Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village. The event is geared towards people starting or changing their career, looking to network, opening a small business or looking for a better work-life balance.

“This event is a great opportunity for people just starting out or looking to make a career change,” said Cornerstone Bank CEO Todd Tallman. “Networking and other professional development opportunities took a big hit during the pandemic and young professionals suffered the most. Following safe social distancing protocols, we are proud to bring this event to the Central Massachusetts community.”

Young Professionals Day will feature a TEDx talk about money and relationships, interactive budgeting activities, a panel of small business owners, a discussion about health insurance and benefits options and an overview of the best-selling talent assessment tool, CliftonStrengths.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to speak with Cornerstone Bank employees about career opportunities and personal banking options. Every participant will receive a Yeti tumbler and padfolio, and there will also be raffles throughout the event for other prizes.

Entry into Old Sturbridge Village is $28 for adults and $14 for college students. Tickets must be purchased on their website in advance. There is no additional fee for entry to Young Professionals Day. The first 25 people to register will receive free entry to Old Sturbridge Village. Email ndigregorio@cornerstonebank.com to secure your spot.
 
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.
Newly Named Petco Love Invests in Lifesaving Work of Second Chance
Grant of $3,500 will help save more pet lives in Massachusetts

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (April 19, 2021) – Second Chance Animal Services announced today a $3,500 grant investment from the newly named, Petco Love, to support their lifesaving work for animals in Massachusetts.

Petco Love is a nonprofit leading change for pets nationally by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since their founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, they’ve empowered organizations with nearly $300 million invested to date in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And, they’ve helped find loving homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations, like ours, nationwide.

“Today Petco Love announces an investment in Second Chance and hundreds of other organizations as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessary euthanized,” said Susanne Kogut, President of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only one component. This month, we will also launch the first of our national tools to empower all animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us.”

“So many pets come to Second Chance with significant medical needs. This grant will not only help save lives but give pets in need the best start with their new families when adopted,” said Lindsay Doray, Development Director of Second Chance Animal Services.
Second Chance is a nonprofit animal welfare organization helping pets in need. Since 1999 Second Chance has helped over 250,000 pets to live better lives through adoption services, veterinary care and programs to educate the future generation of animal lovers.
For more information about Second Chance, visit secondchanceanimals.org, and click here to learn more about Petco Love.

PHOTO: The grant will help provide veterinary care for pets like Chance, a 9-year-old shepherd mix currently waiting to find his forever home.

About Second Chance Animal Services:
Second Chance is a nonprofit 501c3 tax exempt organization that began in 1999 in East Brookfield and relies solely on donations from grants to operate. The organization operates an adoption center in East Brookfield, Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Springfield, and Worcester. Second Chance helps over 40,000 pets a year through adoption, spay/neuter, veterinary care, community outreach, educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. For more information, visit Second Chance’s website at www.secondchanceanimals.org.

About Petco Love (Formerly Petco Foundation)
Petco Love is a nonprofit changing lives by making communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we’ve empowered animal welfare organizations by investing nearly $300 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We’ve helped find loving homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Today, our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit petcolove.org to be part of the lifesaving work we’re leading every day.
Country Bank welcomes Justin Roberts to the Marketing Team

Ware, MA – April 26, 2021 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving central and western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce that Justin Roberts has joined the Marketing and Community Relations Team as the Vice President of Marketing. Roberts, who resides in Wilbraham and grew up in Sutton, has a unique understanding of Country Bank's vast marketing area. Robert's experience in strategic marketing spans over ten years in various industries. As a former small business owner, he also brings more than just his marketing savvy; he brings real-life experience.

"I am excited to join the Country Bank team; having admired the brand for several years, I am looking forward to help activate the Bank's founding partnership of the Worcester Red Sox and promoting Country Bank's presence throughout the region."

In Robert's previous positions, he worked as the Development Officer at American International College (AIC) in the Office of Institutional Advancement. He also worked at MassLive Media, where he helped lead the Digital Marketing Strategy team to support local, regional and national clients. His entrepreneurial spirit recently led him to open his own marketing and community relations agency before joining the Country Bank team.

Roberts earned his Bachelor's and MBA from AIC in Marketing and is the founder of Suit Up Springfield. This non-profit organization provides professional attire and mentorship to the young men of Greater Springfield. He also serves as the Vice President of the Board for Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity. He has served on many non-profits, including AIC, the Wonderfund of Massachusetts, the Young Professionals Society of Greater Springfield, Rotary Club of Springfield, and Square One.

"We are thrilled to welcome Justin to the Marketing and Community Relations team; his experience in Marketing and digital strategies, combined with his extensive civic and community engagement, makes him a perfect fit for Country Bank," stated Miriam Siegel, First Senior Vice President of Human Resources. "We're proud of Justin's efforts within the communities we serve and look forward to his profound passion for community service while representing Country Bank. His overwhelming energy and creativity align and support our iSTEP Corporate Values of Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence, and Prosperity. We are pleased that he has chosen Country Bank to be his Employer of Choice."

Justin is a member of the New England Financial Marketing Association (NEFMA) and received the Game Changer award from the Center for Human Development for making a positive life-changing difference in the community. He enjoys golfing and spending his free time dabbling in gourmet cooking with his family.

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.
Connectivity Point Offers Employees $250 Bonus
and Paid Time Off to get COVID Vaccine

Auburn, Maine – April 22, 2021 - Connectivity Point President, Doug Watt has announced that the company will be offering a $250 bonus to all employees that get a COVID-19 vaccine. They will also receive 4 hours paid time off to receive the shot, 8 hours in the case of the double dose vaccines. In addition, if an employee has a reaction and needs to take the following day off, they will be allowed an additional 8 hours paid time off. The recent announcement from the White House regarding Tax Credits for COVID vaccinations will extend the offering beyond the extra day if employees need additional time to recover.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Connectivity Point has focused on putting the health and safety of their employees first, especially the technicians that must continue to work on-site in order to do their jobs. All company vehicles were immediately outfitted with COVID Precaution Kits, containing masks, gloves, thermometers and hand sanitizer, and employees adhered to the company-issued COVID-19 Safety Plan.

Management at the company reviewed many vaccine policy options in the effort to make an informed decision. It came down to finding the balance of protecting their employees with respecting individual rights. “I strongly believe that the vaccine is an important part of turning the pandemic around,” said Doug Watt, Connectivity Point President. “I also believe that I do not have the right to tell other people what to do with their bodies. With an incentive, I hope to encourage those who are on the fence to get the vaccine, and the paid time off removes a potential barrier.”

Since the internal announcement on April 1, the company has received positive feedback from employees and even had some decide to pledge their $250 bonus to local non-profits.

For more information, contact Liz McLellan, Marketing Manager, at lmclellan@conectivitypoint.com.
 
About Connectivity Point
Connectivity Point Design and Installation is a fast-growing technology company providing design, installation, and support services for low-voltage infrastructure and equipment. Our professional services fall into five major disciplines: Structured Network Cabling, Audio-Visual Solutions, Security Solutions, Wireless Networks, and Telephone Systems. Established in 2002, this Maine-based business has more than 175 employees in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and South Carolina. They perform work in 44 states and 35 countries. Learn more at www.connectivitypoint.com.
Cornerstone Bank welcomes new Assistant Vice President, Commercial Lender
Klara Carter, NMLS #910601, joins the team with 20 years of banking and mortgage experience
 
WORCESTER, Mass. – Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout Central Massachusetts, recently welcomed Klara Carter as its new Assistant Vice President, Commercial Lender. Carter has worked in the banking industry for more than 20 years specializing in helping small businesses with financing.
 
“Klara will be a great fit in our organization,” said Cornerstone Bank CEO Todd Tallman. “She already has an incredible track record assisting business owners in acquiring the financing they need, which we hope to apply to many of the great small businesses we serve across our community.”
 
A resident of Danielson, CT, Carter graduated from Nichols College with a degree in business administration and management, focusing on general administration and finance.
 
“I am eager to begin my role with Cornerstone Bank as the next chapter of my career,” said Carter. “This past year has been so difficult for our area businesses and I look forward to helping them get back on their feet and supporting their future growth.”
Photos: (L) Mary O’Coin, Bill Keefe, VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Award recipient Scott Dungey and James Croteau
(R) Bill Keefe, Harrington Healthcare's Ed Moore, Christine Lee and Jim Croteau

United Way of South Central MA holds
Hybrid Award Ceremony and Annual Meeting

SOUTHBRIDGE: On April 8th, board members of the United Way of South Central MA and a few invited guests met in person at the Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center with members agencies and donors to honor the 2020 Campaign and special award recipients. With 25 individuals attending in person and many more via Zoom, it was a special occasion after 13 months of restrictions.

Lisa Prince, Executive Director of Tri-Valley, Inc. was the keynote speaker. She stated that “Tri-Valley staff and volunteers never stopped working this past year. Delivering meals to senior citizens and the disabled continued but had to be modified for safety. Meals on Wheels drivers could not have the direct contact that so many of the elderly need and rely on daily. They were able to give a wave from behind a door and check in by speaking to those receiving meals through doors and windows.  This contact was the only many in our community had for months at a time. “

Jim Croteau, the 2020 Campaign Chair, gave an overview of the past year’s campaign. Mr. Croteau thanked all United Way volunteers for working so hard to make the 2020 Campaign as successful as it was. “A pandemic can be good for some organizations for fundraising but for others, it’s a little more difficult. Considering we had companies and residents adversely affected by the pandemic, we have done an outstanding job. It is through the generosity of folks in our audience, whether here or on Zoom, that made this possible.”

The 2020 Campaign reached 92% of its overall goal of $535,000. “Quite an accomplishment considering the circumstances,” Mr. Croteau continued. “With no in person campaign presentations, no special events, relying solely on print and digital materials to spread the word, we had a limited number of fund-raising options. Even so, as of this morning we are short of goal by only $42,000.“

Two special awards were presented. Harrington Healthcare received the SERVICE TO COMMUNITY award for outstanding service and commitment of providing healthcare and vaccinations During the Covid-19 Pandemic. Harrington Healthcare President Ed Moore and Vaccination Center Volunteer Coordinator Christine Lee accepted the award on behalf of the hospital. The 2020 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR award was presented to outgoing United Way board Treasurer, Scott Dungey. Mr. Dungey is the Controller for Cornerstone Bank; has been a volunteer board member for 10 years and has been a diligent treasurer during those years. Mr. Dungey ensured that the United Way maintained its financial records and reporting to the highest standards.

Other awards of recognition were presented to the following companies for either their level of employee participation, or for total money raised through their individual campaigns.

Good Neighbor Award - Over $10,000 and under 70% participation
  • Hyde Tools, Inc. & Employees for their continued support of over $15,000
                                                                       
Silver Award - 85 - 99% Employee Participation
  • Savers Bank & Employees – 95% with a $17,000 campaign. 
                                                                                                  
Gold Award Small Business - 25 or less employees 100% Employee Participation
  • St. Luke’s Health Care
 
Diamond Award - Employee & Corporate Gift Totaling $30,000 or more
  • Incom, Inc. & Employees - $34,000                                                                                             
  • Cornerstone Bank & Employees - $53,000 combined total for the local United Ways
  • Karl Storz, Endovision & Endoscopy Divisions & Employees - Our largest corporate donation and campaign at almost $61,000!
  • Fundación MAPFRE for a $80,000 grant.
 
Special Appreciation Awards
  • Fels Foundation
  • Randy & Donna Becker/Herman Becker Family Charitable Foundation
 
Immediately following the awards ceremony, Board President Bill Keefe presided over the Annual Meeting. He stated “Last April the merger between the United Way of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton and the United Way of Webster and Dudley was finalized and, as you know, we are the United Way of South Central MA. To complete a merge during a world-wide pandemic is a challenge. Thankfully, the footwork of planning had been done prior to April and the transition was smooth for the office.”

UWSCM welcomed three new board members. Christopher Mallon, Vice President of Program Management at Cornerstone Bank/ Capstone Group, Rosemary Picard, President & CEO of Savers Bank and Alan Whitney, Vice President of Marketing at Cornerstone Bank.  The new members of the executive board for the United Way of South Central MA are James Croteau, Board President; Kris Marier, 1st Vice President and 2021 Campaign Chair, Denise Gorski, 2nd Vice President, John Kokocinski, Treasurer and Mary O’Coin, Executive Director/Board Secretary.

United Way plays a vital role in creating positive change within our community. UWSCM spends its time, energy, and funds on five initiatives: Health, Education, Financial Stability, Basic Needs, and Literacy, funding more than 28 programs through 22 non-profit partner agencies annually for programs and services that focus on the initiatives.

If you would like to give or contact the United Way, please contact: admin@uwscm.orgor call (508) 765-5491. 
Please visit: www.uwscm.org or follow on Facebook for the latest news.
Think outside the books.
Nature’s Classroom and the Prindle Pond Conference Center

For over 45 years, Nature’s Classroom has given students and teachers the opportunity to experience education
from another perspective: outside the walls of the classroom.

Renew your mind, spirit, and body at Prindle Pond Conference Center in Charlton, MA. A fully accessible and modern conference center sits on over 600 acres of wooded property on serene Prindle Pond. Nature's Classroom hosts a wide variety of weekend and week-long events, and can provide programming and team-building facilitation to meet the goals of your retreat. Offering guests inspiration for personal growth, creativity, and renewal by offering accommodations for workshops, meditation, individualized retreats, and encounters with nature.

Nature’s Classroom is a residential environmental education program operating at four locations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island offering immersive programming tailored to the needs of each group.

Learn more by visiting online at www.naturesclassroom.org

If you have any questions about services or availability, please contact Nature's Classroom director, Lee Wyant:
prindlepond@gmail.com or 203-843-2933
JC Penney Sturbridge Location is
CLOSING
Sturbridge Plaza, 194 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA

Download, Print & Bring this flyer in for a 10% discount

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
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.
Nueva edición!
Read the latest digital issue of Vocero Hispano on the News Posts Feed on the Chamber website. ISSUE 1623 - APRIL 29 - Digital Version - Free For Members
Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email advertising@vocerohispano.com to get started.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Online Opportunities

You'll also find webinars, online workshops and courses from Worcester Chamber, SCORE and MSBDC. Most are FREE! Got something going on? Please add your happenings, online or in-person, indoors or out, to our calendar or email Jack the pertinent info and we will share in the next CROSSROADS!

WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Seminar/Webinar Series: PlanWell - Financial Wellness Information
Tuesday, May 11, 2021, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT, On ZOOM, FREE for Chamber Members
The PlanWell Series from Baystate Financial is here to help bolster your HR department and educate your employees – with turnkey onsite and virtual engagements delivered by specifically trained individuals at no cost to you or your team.

Business After Hours - Annual Awards Ceremony - May 2021
Thursday May 20, 2021, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM EDT, On ZOOM
Join us for our Annual Awards Ceremony, followed by a Virtual networking event. REGISTER

Visit the Worcester Chamber calendar of Chamber Events online here.


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.

Franchising 101: Small Business Ownership
Tues. | May 4 | 1:00 pm
Have you always thought about owning your own franchise but unsure of where to start? Join our Franchise 101 webinar to access information and resources through industry experts! REGISTER

Why you Should Not Go it Alone: Legal, Accounting, and Insurance for your Business
Monday, May 10 | 2 - 4 p.m. ET
Would you skydive without a parachute? Start a new business or sustain your small business without the services you need to thrive? This webinar will feature a panel that will help you sort out and select the financial, insurance and legal resources you need to consider as a small business owner. REGISTER

Creative Marketing on a Shoestring Budget
Monday, May 24 | 2 - 4 p.m. ET
Need ways to market your business when money is tight? These days, especially if you are a smaller business or solopreneur, you and your customers may have fewer resources on hand to spend on marketing. Find out how you can implement your marketing goals at minimal cost. REGISTER

View Previously Recorded SCORE Webinars Here.


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

May 4   What You Need to Know About the Paycheck Protection Program
May 4   Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Business Fundamentals
May 4   Business Fundamentals: Managing Business Financials and Bookkeeping
May 4-6   Quickbooks Desktop for Beginners (3 sessions)
May 5   Legal Requirements for Small Businesses
May 5   Building Sustainable Business Webinar Series: Strengthening Your Product and Service
May 5   Coaching Tools for Business Success
May 6   Filing a Provisional or Non-Provisional Utility Patent Application
May 6   Small Business Resources Forum
May 6   Basics of Starting Your Business
May 6   Basic Entrepreneurial Workshop: Understanding Business Financials
May 7   Biden on Trade: The First 100 Days and Beyond globe
May 11   Federal Marketing and Networking
May 11   Debt Relief Options for COVID-19 Impacted Businesses
May 11   Business Fundamentals: Conflict Resolution in the Workplace

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.
Woman's History Weekend
May 8-9, 2021
Old Sturbridge Village

Join Old Sturbridge Village as we acknowledge and celebrate extraordinary and everyday women in the early 19th century. Stop outside the historic houses of OSV to learn about how women ran their households, managing the essential work of clothes construction, cooking, laundry, and more. Join interpreters in the gardens for talks on indigenous plants, medicine, and discussions on the roles of women and children in gardening. Beyond the domestic sphere, we will explore issues surrounding gender, freedom, and rights occurring during the 1830s through readings of first-person accounts of the 19th century.

The Village is open 9:30am to 5:00pm. www.osv.org
All are welcome to participate in this fun event at Central Street Plaza in Southbridge!

This program is organized by Southbridge Economic Development.
Gates open at 6PM. Movie will start at dusk (after 7PM)
Limited capacity, advance purchase suggested. Online ticket sales close at 3PM (5/8/21).
Visit SBP's Events page and Facebook for tickets & more details!
Mother’s Day Dinner at The Publick House
Sunday, May 9, 2021
Seatings from 11:00am–4:00pm
Three-Course Plated Dinner

Prices listed do not include tax or gratuity.
Maximum 6ppl per table and 1.5 hour seating time allotted per each reservation.
Please call our reservation voicemail at (774) 304-1524 or email jkluge@publickhouse.com
your reservation inquiry information, we will respond as soon as possible.

ENTREES (Choice of One)

Roasted Native Turkey with Gravy $45++
Cornbread-Sausage Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Butternut Squash and Cranberry Sauce

Roasted Prime Rib of Beef $55++
Au Jus, Horseradish Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans

Five-Mushroom, Leek, Goat Cheese Quiche $35++
Tomato-mozzarella pesto salad

Pan-Seared Salmon $45++
Roasted tomato-basil sauce, artichoke-fennel jasmine rice and asparagus

Vegan Tofu Ravioli $35++
Tossed with herb-roasted vegetables and drizzled with balsamic glaze

Coffee, Tea and Soft Drinks included.
INCLUDES Publick House Sweet Pecan Rolls, Dinner Rolls, Starters, Desserts and a Children’s Menu (3-12) $7.95

++menu subject to change
It's Official!
Salem Cross Inn will be reopening on May 6th!
heart_mommy_card.jpg
OPEN for Mother's Day!
Seatings are at 12, 12:30, 2:30 & 3:00pm

for the latest updates.

508-867-2345

Avellino and The Duck
Will open at 11am on Mother’s Day and will be offering a fantastic holiday pre-fixe menu for $39.95.
Make your reservations now by calling The Duck at 508-347-2321. Pre-ordering is coming soon!
 

Cedar Street Grille
Will open at 10am and will feature their unique brunch menu all day plus some great Mother’s Day specials.
Make your reservations now by calling Cedar Street Grille at 508-347-5800. Pre-ordering is coming soon!

Brimfield
Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Shows
Route 20, Brimfield
May 11, 2021 - May 16, 2021

For those considering coming for the May shows, please be aware only Brimfield Auction Acres (formerly J and J) and the Brimfield Barn show fields will be open in May. Brimfield Auction Acres will host approximately 300 vendors while Brimfield Barn's capacity is 12 vendors.
Woman In Business
Scholarship Fundraiser Auction

Woman In Business, Inc. (WIB), now in its 30th year of building community for women in our region by fostering networking, sharing information and experiences, and providing educational opportunities, is raising money for its annual scholarship program with a "Buy Local-For Local" auction that showcases our region and all we have to offer.

Over the last 30 years, we have 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.

Please join us in our efforts this year!

Visit Woman in Business online at wibsturbridge.org
Click the auction graphic to view the items and bid from May 12 to 21!
May 15: Fetch! Sit! Stay! Annual Dinner Auction

The annual dinner auction is Second Chance's largest and most important fundraiser of the year. Because we need to be there for all the pets who need help now, we invite you to Fetch! Sit! and Stay! for pets in need on Saturday, May 15th.

You'll have the opportunity to Fetch a delicious family-style meal & swag bag, Sit down at home and join us online for dinner and Stay tuned as we share amazing stories of the animals we've helped and take part in our online auction.

OR you can choose to join us in person! We are now accepting reservations for parties of 6 for our LIVE EVENT in accordance with COVID restrictions. There will be a limited number of tables available so we would like to accommodate as many supporters as possible in compliance with state restrictions. We may open up reservations for smaller parties, based upon availability, at a later date.

We're now accepting sponsorships and donations for the event. See our website for more information: https://www.secondchanceanimals.org/fetch/

Whether you choose to join us in person or from home, you'll be helping pets in Massachusetts and beyond.
What's on at the YMCA
HAPPY HEALTHY & WHOLE: What's for Dinner?
Can't decide on what to eat? Tired of eating the same things over and over?
Join us with your family to create a nutritious meal with all pre-portioned ingredients and included recipe!

  • Order Thursday nights through Mondays. Stop in the branch the following week to pick up meals anytime Thursday- Saturday.

  • Pay when you pick up! Only $1 per person!

Call 508-755-6101 (dial 0) or stop into the branch!

Tri-Community Family Branch YMCA, 43 Everett Street, Southbridge MA, 01550
Art in the City: Virtual Art Auction
Tuesday June 1, 2021 - Saturday, June 12, 2021
Facebook Live: Thursday, June 10, 2021

Art in the City 2021 will be a 12-day online auction featuring artwork created by dozens of regional artists. The auction will culminate with a live virtual event in celebration of Family Health Center of Worcester's work. Whether you are new to the arts or an avid collector, don’t miss this event! All proceeds support the delivery of high-quality, comprehensive health, dental, vision, and social services for low-income and uninsured patients at Family Health Center of Worcester, Family Health Center - Southbridge, the Lois B. Green Breast Health Center, and Worcester Health Care for the Homeless.

Auction Opens: The auction will open on Bidsquare.com on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. Stay tuned for more information!
Questions? Email ArtintheCity@FHCW.org.
Visit https://www.artinthecity.org/ for more information.
Venture Community Services
23rd Annual Charity Golf Classic
Friday, June 18, 2021
9am shotgun start
Blissful Meadows Golf Club, Uxbridge MA
Proceeds to support programming for people with developmental disabilities.
More info contact: Paige Mador, pmador@venturecs.org
Visit Online for more! REGISTER TODAY!




United Way's Pub Quiz is BACK!

Who's the Sharpest Knife in the block?
Sponsored by: Dexter



Click the graphic to visit the event page for registration!
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:
Golf
SAVE THE DATE!
THE 2021 CMS CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC
AUGUST 5, 2021
HERITAGE COUNTRY CLUB, CHARLTON
STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFO COMING SOON!

Executive Committee

Erika Travinski, Chair
The Center of Hope

Laurie Cashman, Immediate Past Chair
Yellow Iris Farm

Bruce Watkins, Treasurer
Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.

 
Board of Directors

Brad Arcoite
Table 3 Restaurant Group

Michael Checkosky
Cornerstone Bank

Nicole Courtemanche
Connectivity Point

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union

Rich Eichacker
Vibrance Technology Corp


Michelle Fanion
ERA Key Realty

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