Crossroads News banner
Welcome to September & Crossroads News!
CROSSROADS is in your inbox on the cusp of Labor Day weekend and Brimfield week. If you can spare a few hours to greet visitors at our Brimfield Information booth next week, please drop us a line. You can find the available shifts in the Events section below. In this issue, we welcome our newest Member, feature the newest Member2Member Discount, share the latest news and highlight amazing seasonal events coming up in the first half of month. We wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!

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 latest offerings on our Events calendar and emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2023
CHAMBER OFFICE INFO
The office will be CLOSED for LABOR DAY, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4.
At this time, the office is ONLY OPEN Monday through Thursday from Noon to 5:00pm due to an extended illness.
No appointment is necessary. Give us a ring at 508-347-2761 to be sure we are here.
Welcome, New Chamber Member!

Join us as we welcome the newest Member to the Chamber of Central Mass South!

No Birthday Left Behind
Melody Beach
63 Newell Avenue, Southbridge, MA 01550
(508) 330-0343

NBLB's mission is to provide every homeless shelter child an opportunity to celebrate their birthday in a special and memorable way!
Sponsorships Available

Get noticed! Sponsoring a Chamber event or program can give you exposure to the people that you want to do business with. Our affiliation with the Worcester Regional Chamber means exposure to 2,300 member businesses and an e-mail list of more than 10,000 professionals.

Programs for the Chamber's fall and winter season are in the works. We will be seeking sponsors for upcoming Fun at Fives and other events. If your company would be interested in being a sponsor, or would like more information about sponsorship, please contact Alix at 508-347-2761 or email [email protected].
NEW MEMBER2MEMBER OFFER!

508-344-4536

Chamber Members, Use your M2M card and get
10% off massage services from Rebecca J Sey, LMT.

Click on the M2M logo to view all the M2M deals!
Phantoms by Firelight tickets are on sale now!
 Halloween programming returns to Old Sturbridge Village weekend evenings in October.
Bryce Crumlish as ringmaster Andrej performing during Phantoms by Firelight at Old Sturbridge Village.

Sturbridge, M.A. – Phantoms by Firelight returns to Old Sturbridge Village for 12 nights this Fall! Ticket sales for the popular Halloween program started on Friday, August 25 with special early access and a discounted rate for Old Sturbridge Village and Coggeshall Farm Museum Members. For more details on the event or to purchase tickets visit: www.osv.org/phantoms.
 
New 2023 featured performances
For 2023 there will be four completely new acts added to each nightly show. These include:
·    Hand balancing and Cyr wheel performances by circus artist Joel Herzfeld.
·    Kyle Breen will be spinning and dancing with fire.
·    Kayla Ernst-Alper will perform high above the crowds with mesmerizing aerial silks on a Lyra (aerial hoop).
·    Andre Sguerra will be entertaining crowds on stilts and the unicycle.
 
Returning acts from 2022
·    Classic ballet dancers turned circus performers, Richard Hankes and Ashlee Montague have performed in Cirque du Soleil’s Broadway Show Paramour among other accolades.
·    Bryce Crumlish will bring back an even spookier performance. Crumlish will be joined by Jade Genga. These two experienced Ringmasters will entertain visitors each step of the way throughout the evening performances.
 
At Phantoms by Firelight visitors can also:
·    Learn about the history of Halloween traditions, as well as coffin making, diseases and cures, funeral practices, and more.
·    Play classic outdoor games like cornhole or attempt stilt walking.
·    Listen to haunting ghost stories by the bonfire.
·    Meet author of A Guide to Haunted New England, Thomas D’Agostino on select nights.
·    Come dressed in costume and participate in the Village’s version of trick-or-treat, Clues & Candy.
·    Create photo opportunities and join a Spooky Selfie contest.
·    Enjoy a seasonal menu of hot and cold and savory and sweet items as well as on-theme adult and non-alcoholic beverages.
·    Shop in Miner Grant and the Ox & Yoke Mercantile for all your seasonal and holiday home décor.
 
Phantoms by Firelight Schedule
Dates: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays October 6 through 29
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
 
Phantoms by Firelight Ticket Details
Ticket sales began Friday, August 25 for Members only. This a fantastic time to become a member and save big while also getting other membership perks like 10% off on food, beverage, and retail items in our shops plus additional discounts for Christmas by Candlelight 2023. Learn more about all the membership benefits online at www.osv.org/membership/become-a-member/
 
General admission tickets go on sale beginning September 9, 2023.

For more details on the event or to purchase tickets visit: www.osv.org/phantoms.
Second Chance Animal Services Empowers Pet Owners
A Force for Preventing Pet Surrenders

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (August 21, 2023) - In the face of a troubling increase in pet surrenders across the nation, animal shelters are grappling with a surge of distressing pleas from individuals seeking to part with their cherished animal companions. At a critical moment where empathy meets social responsibility, it's crucial to remember that pets are far more than disposable items. Adopting a pet involves a deep commitment and a lifetime of care. Second Chance Animal Services is committed to turning the tide by instilling a sense of responsibility during the adoption process and providing ongoing support for new pet owners.

Making the decision to adopt a pet requires thoughtful consideration, as highlighted by Wendy Hall, Director of Second Chance's Animal Relocation programs. "Pet ownership is like raising a child—it takes time, care, and resources and Second Chance is here to help," emphasizes Hall. "Pets have emotions and needs and rely on their owners for food, medical attention, love, and companionship. By investing effort from the start, many common problems can be avoided, leading to a happy and lasting pet-owner relationship."

Hall recognizes the emotional strain behind some surrenders, especially when owners face medical or financial challenges. "When someone calls about surrendering their pet, we make sure they know about the resources we offer to prevent unnecessary surrenders. Yet, some situations, like illness or job loss, can lead to heartbreaking decisions." In such cases, Second Chance understands the heartache owners go through and offers assistance during these tough times.

To prevent unnecessary surrenders, Second Chance provides a range of resources and assistance for pet owners facing difficulties. The organization believes that open communication and guidance can often resolve issues without giving up a pet. Knowledgeable shelter staff are available by phone or email to listen to owners' concerns and offer advice on various pet-related matters. Whether it's dealing with behavior problems, training challenges, or introducing a new pet to the family, they offer personalized solutions. In addition, Second Chance operates four full-service veterinary hospitals to ensure pets receive necessary care. Located in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield and Worcester, the hospitals are open to everyone and offer reduced rates for those who qualify, along with weekly low-cost vaccine clinics. The nonprofit also has a pet food pantry program that supplies pet food to local human food pantries, helping pet owners facing financial difficulties.

New Second Chance adopters also get access to a week of free one-on-one online training through an app designed to help dog owners address behavioral issues and foster positive interactions with their pets in their homes. Owners can continue to use the app for a minimal charge as needed. Well-trained pets are more likely to stay in their homes with their families.

Second Chance remains committed to educating pet owners, providing resources, and promoting responsible pet ownership to create a community where pets are valued as cherished family members. With the right support and effort, many challenges can be overcome, allowing pets to stay where they belong—with the families who love them unconditionally. For more information on Second Chance's programs and resources, visit www.secondchanceanimals.org. Together, we can build a future where the bonds between pets and their caring owners remain unbreakable, regardless of the obstacles.
 
PHOTO: Mack, a two-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, is just one of the pets waiting to find a home at Second Chance’s Adoption Center in East Brookfield.
 
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
It is that time of year again and we are excited to bring a new version of Pub Quiz to United Way! Please join us for our 2023 Campaign Kickoff and Pub Quiz Night on Friday, September 29th! Use the QR or visit our website to register. Don’t forget to be creative with your team name. We will have a Best Name prize along with the Sharpest Knife in the Block trophies. Look forward to seeing you there as you battle for the “Sharpest Knife in the Block”!
Country Bank and The Worcester Red Sox Announce the 2023 WooStars
August 23, 2022 - Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, and the Worcester Red Sox Foundation recently announced the 2023 WooStars, a program that supports non-profit leaders throughout the region.

Country Bank recently recognized nine local WooStars and the non-profits they are affiliated with at Polar Park to include: Mari Gonzalez – El Buen Samaritano Food Program, Inc., Jenna Rahkonen – HomeFront Strong, Brian Feeley – Miracle League of Western Mass, Todd Stewart – Camp Putnam, Sharon MacDonald – Guild of St. Agnes of Worcester, Inc., Anna Rice – Dismas House, Gina & John Connolly – Lou Gehrig Little League and Joseph Kenadek – Jack Barry Little League. Each non-profit was presented with a $5,000 donation.

"Country Bank and the Worcester Red Sox Foundation are passionate about supporting the communities we serve. The "WooStars" is a partnership program between our two organizations. It is so meaningful to us as our community members nominate the WooStars and support the non-profits they serve. In its third year, we have awarded 27 WooStars with $135,000 in donations. These community leaders are genuinely making a difference, and we are honored to support them," said Shelley Regin, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Country Bank.

"Country Bank has been an ideal community partner," said Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, President of the Worcester Red Sox and the WooSox Foundation. "Our WooStars partnership sheds the light on some wonderful organizations—and that's in addition to our collaboration on our Police vs. Fire Baseball Classic and our MVT program that supports our Most Valuable Teachers. We thank our friends at Country Bank, and we salute our 2023 WooStars."

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 12 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.

About the Worcester Red Sox
The Worcester Red Sox are the Triple-A affiliate of baseball’s beloved Boston Red Sox. Their inspiring and aspiring players live locally, most in the heart of Downtown Worcester, and play at Polar Park, the city’s sparkling new year-round venue that opened in 2021. The club and the WooSox Foundation are proud to be partners with Country Bank on many community endeavors. 
Cruise for Critters Drives Back to Westview Farms Creamery,
Revving Up Support for Pets in Need 
Annual Car Show Returns with a Heartfelt Mission and Exciting Fall Festivities
MONSON, MA (August 23, 2023) – The engines are revving, the excitement is palpable, and the countdown has begun for the much-anticipated Cruise for Critters to Westview Farms Creamery on Saturday, September 23rd. Now in its 11th year, this beloved car show, proudly sponsored by Service Connection of Monson, is set to once again make a meaningful impact on the lives of pets in need at Second Chance Animal Services. 
 
Service Connection owner, Al Widlan, has championed this remarkable event for over a decade, rallying car enthusiasts and compassionate hearts alike to come together for a worthy cause. As the wheels of time turn, Cruise for Critters continues to shine a light of hope for furry companions across Massachusetts. Widlan enthusiastically invites car aficionados to join in the festivities and revel in a day of fun at a fantastic venue.
 
This year's Cruise for Critters promises an array of fall-themed activities for attendees of all ages. A captivating vendor fair will offer a treasure trove of unique finds and is expected to be the largest Cruise for Critters vendor fair to date. The much-loved Halloween Barktacular kids' games will be back thanks to dedicated Second Chance volunteers who are gearing up to provide an unforgettable experience for children and families alike.
 
Lindsay Doray, Chief Development Officer of Second Chance Animal Services, extends her heartfelt gratitude to Service Connection and Westview Farms Creamery for their unwavering commitment to the welfare of pets. As economic challenges and uncertainties persist, many pet owners find themselves facing difficult decisions. The choice between parting ways with a cherished pet and struggling to provide proper care is a heavy burden to bear. Doray emphasizes that the funds raised through this event directly contribute to Second Chance's vital programs that make a tangible difference within the local pet-loving community.
 
The festivities are set to kick off at 10 am and continue until 3 pm, encompassing great food and ice cream and an assortment of fall-inspired attractions that Westview Farms Creamery is renowned for. From pumpkin picking to navigating through a corn maze, a delightful autumn adventure awaits every guest. Live music by Spare Parts will provide the perfect soundtrack for the day, while the allure of enticing raffle prizes beckons attendees to try their luck.
 
Organizers extend a warm invitation to local businesses and vendors, calling upon them to unite in support of pets in need. Information on sponsorship opportunities and becoming a vendor can be found at secondchanceanimals.org/events/cruise.
 
The event will welcome spectators free of charge. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to take part in the show by contributing a $20 entry fee per vehicle, with every dollar earmarked for the betterment of pets' lives. A rain date has been set for Saturday, September 30, 2023.
A Labor of Love Leads to A Revitalization of Tennis Courts
and Newly Added Pickleball Courts in Brimfield
Community Invited to Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Upcoming Golf Tournament
to Fund Future Maintenance of Community Courts

BRIMFIELD – For nearly a year, unbeknownst to passersby, volunteers Emerson and Laurie Recore have been working steadfastly to repair the surface of the long-neglected tennis courts tucked back behind Hitchcock. Collectively they have put in hundreds of hours carefully clearing and filling cracks in the court, painting, and repairing the surrounding fence. As a result, Brimfield is now home to revitalized tennis courts and the addition of two pickleball courts, soon to open. The community is invited to come to a ribbon-cutting on the evening of Tuesday, September 12th to celebrate.
 
Nestled among the trees at the end of path that runs along the far edge of the Academy’s property is Charles Field. Originally a ball field installed for use by students of Hitchcock Academy when it acted as the area’s high school, before Tantasqua’s existence, tennis courts were added some time after the high school transformed into the community center it is today.
 
The courts gradually fell into disrepair over time without funding to maintain them. There had been efforts to continue to use the courts for basic tennis instruction during Hitchcock’s summer programs, but never enough to restore them for full use.
 
A community-led effort a few years back was significant in helping to clear heavy brush and growth.
 
The courts have long been a focus of brainstorming, discussion, prospecting, and grant research by the organization and its trustees, with costs looming large and daunting.
 
Emerson, a long-time Brimfield resident and former Hitchcock trustee, said he was inspired by all the activity he has seen happening at Hitchcock recently, and wanted to take on this project to contribute. His and Laurie’s has been the largest, most dedicated and most impactful effort the courts have seen.
 
On top of the hundreds of hours they put in, they had even begun scrubbing the court’s surface manually until Marchand’s Power-Washing owner Alan Marchand offered his services pro-bono, saving immense amounts of time and labor.
 
Other volunteers have also assisted with painting and mowing around the courts.
 
On Tuesday, September 12th, Hitchcock will hold a soft opening for the newly revamped courts. From 5 to 6:30pm, the community is invited to come and take a look. This will mark the reopening of the courts which will be available for community use from that point forward. More information on availability will be shared on the organization's website.
 
Proceeds from the upcoming Fore A Great Cause Golf Tournament will go toward ongoing maintenance of what has, until now, been a labor of love.
 
For anyone who wants to contribute to the effort, but doesn’t play golf, donations are also being accepted into a fund for court maintenance.
 
Hitchcock Board President Mark Carron was the first donor to make a monthly donation to kickstart the fund.
 
“That court was a big part of my childhood here in Brimfield, and I couldn’t be happier to see it coming back to life,” says Carron.
 
Executive Director Cindy Skowyra first learned to play tennis on the courts in a summer recreation program in the 1970s. “Kids would just show up with a racket and a can of tennis balls.” She went on to play competitively at Tantasqua, and has fond memories of playing on the courts.
 
“Everyone has memories here,” says Skowyra. “It’s time for new ones to be made.”
 
The 3rd annual Fore A Great Cause Golf Tournament will take place at Heritage Country Club in Charlton on Sunday, September 24th at 1pm. The fee is $120/player with the option to sign up as a foursome or individual. This includes entry to the tournament, cart, steak dinner, contests, prizes, and snacks. The tournament will be played in scramble format. Players or foursomes can register at www.hitchcockacademy.org/fore-a-great-cause-golf-tournament.html.
Country Bank’s Executive Vice President, Mary C. McGovern graduates from
American Bankers Association Wharton Leadership Lab
August 30, 2023 - Country Bank announced that Mary C. McGovern, executive vice president, chief financial and operating officer, successfully completed the inaugural American Bankers Association (ABA) Wharton Leadership Lab at the University of Pennsylvania last week. She earned an ABA Wharton Executive Leadership Certificate, a prestigious credential that demonstrates her excellence in leadership and strategic planning.
 
The ABA Wharton Leadership Lab is a rigorous, immersive program that challenges executive bankers on the reality of leadership in today’s world at an Ivy League level. The program, which included 42 students, covers topics such as creating and sharing a vision, goal setting, managing talent, driving innovation, and sustaining meaningful relationships.

Mary is an influential executive leader with more than 30 years’ experience in the financial services industry. Her leadership has contributed to the bank’s continued success for the past 12 years. Mary’s participation in the ABA Wharton Leadership Lab reflects her commitment to continuous learning and professional development at a critical time in the industry as regulations, technologies and the work force continues to rapidly evolve.

“Mary’s commitment to Country Bank is admirable, with oversight of operations, finance, facilities, retail banking delivery and technology, she has continued to drive strategic change throughout the Bank,” said Paul Scully, President and CEO. “On behalf of the entire team and the Board of Directors, we would like to congratulate Mary for this achievement and look forward to her continued leadership as we navigate the next few years in a challenging economy.”
Dexter Outlet | 44 River Street | Southbridge, MA 01550
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 [email protected] to get started.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Brimfield
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at the Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Shows
2023 SHOW DATES: September 5-10

ONE MORE TIME in 2023! The Brimfield Antiques and Collectibles Show has been dubbed "the Queen of the outdoor shows" and a Smithsonian Treasure.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The Chamber is urgently seeking volunteers to staff its Information Booth at the Shows Tuesday through Saturday next week. Volunteers sell T-shirts, supply visitors with info, and enjoy some fine people-watching.

All of the 11am to 2pm shifts have been filled. Morning shifts (8am-11am) and afternoon shifts (2pm-5pm) are available throughout the week. The need is critical due to a back injury Alix sustained while setting up the new Chamber offices. She will be on hand to direct the easy processes of loading, setup and breakdown but she is not able to bend, lift or stretch. If you can help out, please contact Alix. Thank you!
We're so excited to introduce a new series of unique dining events for you:
Community Brew Feasts!
Come join us for this late-summer season dinner series! This series will feature five different dinners inspired by summer gardens and favorite foods. Plus, each feast is accompanied by a curated tasting of three different beers from our friends at Lost Towns Brewing.
We can't wait to serve up these special offerings consisting of some of our favorite seasonal foods and flavors! Take a look at this Community Brew Feast schedule, and be sure to purchase tickets to save your seats today!
September 1: Gone Fishing...
Ale & Garlic Mussels, Salem Cross Garden Salad, Herbed Grilled Swordfish with Pico Butter, Garden Vegetable Jambalaya,
Peach Crisp with Obsessive Whipped Cream

September 8: Finger Lickin' Chicken
Hot Honey Fried Chicken Wings, Salem Cross Garden Salad, Meyer Lemon & Herb Grilled Statler Chicken, Garlic Whipped Potatoes, Summer Vegetable Ratatouille, Grilled Pound Cake with Berry Compote

September 15: We've Got the Beef!
Open Fire Cauldron Chowder of the Sea, Salem Cross Garden Salad, New York Sirloin “London Broil”, Loaded Spiced Baked Potato, Garlicky Green Beans, Cherry Cheesecake

Tickets are $75 per person and include sales tax and gratuity. Tickets can be purchased on our website or over the phone (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.

Visit the Facebook page for the latest updates.

508-867-2345
Muster Day returns this September 2nd at Old Sturbridge Village
So much more to explore for the price of standard daytime admission.
Sturbridge, M.A. – On Saturday, September 2 there is more to see at Old Sturbridge Village as we host a full day of programming during Muster Day.
 
Muster Day is a day of military celebration, muskets, martial music, and more. In the early 19th century, farmers and craftsmen were required by law to serve in local militia units – the forerunner of today’s National Guard. Often, the various militia companies of several towns would come together for a regimental muster, a grand display that brought the townspeople out to cheer on the companies as they marched by in dashing uniforms.
 
Old Sturbridge Village is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and visitors can:
 
  • Talk to members of two uniformed volunteer militia companies.
  • Listen to early 19th-century martial music.
  • Watch musket and cannon firing demonstrations
  • See a “Sham Fight” as rival militia companies square off against each other in the field. Scheduled for 3:00pm (subject to change).
  • Our young visitors will get the chance to learn early 19th-century drill and marching with the militia officer’s instruction and a wooden toy musket.
  • See the “striped pig” and learn how it was used to skirt the early 19th-century liquor laws.
  • Learn why many New Englanders were pushing for reforms to the militia system and the role that intemperance played in those reforms.

Muster Day is included with standard daytime admission or membership to Old Sturbridge Village.

For a full list of the day’s activities and to purchase tickets visit : www.osv.org/event/muster-day/
Friends of Charlton Library - Old Home Day

CHARLTON: The Friends of Charlton Public Library, a registered 501(c)3 organization, is conducting a membership drive during September. The Friends will participate in the Old Home Day celebration on Sunday, September 3. Look for our table on the front steps of the Charlton Public Library. We will have membership forms and brochures available and current members will be on hand to answer any questions.
 
The Friends will also participate in Overlook’s 6th Annual Fall Festival, which takes place on the Overlook grounds on Saturday, September 30.
 
The Friends of Charlton Public Library supports the Charlton Library by funding programs for people of all ages, purchasing museum passes to provide the larger community with access to a variety of cultural experiences, sponsoring musical and literary performances for a range of tastes, supporting the children’s summer reading journey, and – best of all – bringing people together.
 
Membership forms are also always available at the circulation desk. New and renewing members can now sign up through PayPal.
 
For more information, check out the Friends of Charlton Public Library’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/charltonlibraryfriends/) or email [email protected].
4th Annual Lamoureux Ford Antique & Muscle Car Show
Saturday, September 9, 8:30 AM – 1 PM
Lamoureux Ford, 366 E Main St, East Brookfield, MA
Every year this event gets better and better! We love to see all the local artisans and crafters come together to make this craft fair awesome! This year we expect a lot of new crafters to join our Craft Fair. Only handmade items are accepted into this fair. We are limiting the amount of each craft for this fair and also the number of spots available are limited. We are excited to host this great Craft Fair! Check it out on Facebook for more info or call 508-867-6858.
QVCAH Members Exhibit & Fall Tag Sale
Saturday, September 9, 2023, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, 111 Main St in Southbridge, is holding the annual Members Exhibit in September, with the opening reception on Saturday, September 9, from noon to 4pm. Members will exhibit a variety of art, including paintings, sculpture and photos in the historic art center. Many of the pieces will be available for purchase. The gallery will then be open Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4pm throughout the month of September. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served at the opening reception. The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts has a large parking lot and is handicap accessible. Don't miss this opportunity to view some terrific art from a variety of talented artists.

The Fall Tag Sale will also be held on the lawn Saturday, Sept 9 from 10am to 4pm. Vendors will be selling an assortment of collectibles and treasures. We will also have several food trucks joining the fun. Don't miss this exciting day at 111 Main Street in Southbridge.

For more information: go to ruthwellscenter.com or call 508 764 3341
Bugs and Brews
September 10, 2023 at Rapscallion Pub 

Join Opacum Land Trust and Women on the Land at Rapscallion Pub for this fun event! Grab a drink and get ready to learn about the insects and diseases that affect our local forest’s health as presented by Forest Health Specialist and Opacum Director Felicia Hubacz, with specimens to see up close! This is a joint program with the Women on the Land Network and Opacum Land Trust, and women landowners are strongly encouraged to join!

Doors open at 1:30 PM for mingling and viewing specimens along with cash bar and complimentary snacks. The talk begins at 2:00 PM.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER: www.opacumlt.org/events/bugs-brews/
Friends and supporters of Dr. Van’s 39th Annual Golf Tournament are hitting the links for UMass Memorial Health – Harrington’s Cardiac Rehab program and the Rotary Club of Southbridge at the Thompson Raceway Golf Club in Thompson, CT.

The beneficiaries of this year’s tournament are UMass Memorial Health – Harrington’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program and the Southbridge Rotary Club’s high school scholarship program.

FOR QUESTIONS OR TO REGISTER EMAIL: [email protected] or [email protected]
Sip, Sample & Support 2023
September 14 @ 5:30pm - 8:00pm

Venture Community Services are so happy to be hosting our Sip, Sample & Support Event again with the support of Ted’s Package Store of Charlton/Webster/Spencer.

The Collection @ Wight Farm, 420 Main Street, Sturbridge (Winthrop & Alpheus rooms & patio seating)

Tickets are $50 each and should be purchased in advance. Everyone will get a Venture tasting glass.

Proceeds from the event will support people with developmental disabilities in our community and our new program for young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Visit this link for details and to Purchase Tickets: venturecs.org/event/sip-sample-support/
Craft Weekend at Old Sturbridge Village
Saturday & Sunday, September 16-17, 2023
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Join us for Craft Weekend, highlighting a variety of New England crafts and trades from the early 19th century.

The Village’s craftspeople will showcase their skills by crafting more complicated or unique items that are not usually displayed at the Village.

SEE MORE DETAILS ONLINE: www.osv.org/event/craft-weekend/
SEPTEMBER 16, 2023, 10AM-5PM
RAIN OR SHINE
Southbridge Town Common (next to the Police Station)

ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN FOR ALL AGES!
AutumnFest Activities on the Town Common
Raffle Tables
Crafters and Food Vendors
Beer & Wine Tent featuring Hardwick Winery & Rapscallion Brewery
Harrington Hospital “Duck Pluck”

VISIT THE WEBPAGE FOR DETAILS!
Southbridge Credit Union's Tour Opacum
Sunday, September 17, 2023

Join Opacum Land Trust on Sunday, September 17th, 2023 for this spectacular scenic bike ride through several of our conservation properties in Brimfield, Sturbridge, Monson, and surrounding towns. Don’t miss Rapscallion Brewery’s after-party at Brimfield Winery complete with wine, craft beer, live music, games, and more!

Co-hosted by Rapscallion Brewery at Brimfield Winery.

You’re going to have a great day while supporting a great cause - proceeds from the ride will help Opacum Land Trust protect critical land, water, and wildlife, and provide outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.

About Opacum Land Trust
Opacum Land Trust is a non-profit land conservation organization serving the south-central Massachusetts region. Our goal is to protect undeveloped land and open space for the benefit of the public and the protection of our environment.
More info and registration at: touropacum.org

Did we miss your best post? Send us a Facebook message if you've got BIG NEWS you would like us to share on social media! Click here to visit our Facebook Events page!


Executive Committee

Cynthia Saucier, Chair
Country Bank

Christina Hadis-Blackwell, First Vice Chair
The Center of Hope

Erika Travinski, Immediate Past Chair
The Center of Hope

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




Kelly Hibbard
Harrington Hospital

Emily Klamm
Old Sturbridge Village

James Laney
ERA Key Realty

Anthony Marini
bankHometown

Geraldo Maldonado
Quinsigamond Community College

Trevor Nielsen
Edward Jones

Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Company

Hadley Zabinski
Paw Plaza


James Donahue
Old Sturbridge Village
Honorary Board Member


1A River Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Alexandra McNitt
Executive Director
Jack Starkey
Communications & Media