Welcome to November & Crossroads News!

We hope you will join us as we get back to networking this month at the Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center on the 15th! We also reveal the date of the Holiday Fun at Five as well as many ways to get into the holiday swing in this issue. Thank you for posting your upcoming events to our calendar! We love sharing your latest news and happenings with our readers!

CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. If you have events to share please post them on our Events calendar and keep emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: NOVEMBER 15, 2023

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

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

The office will be CLOSED on Friday, November 10 to observe Veteran's Day.

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

CMS CHAMBER OFFICE, 1A RIVER ROAD, STURBRIDGE

NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER

Fun at Five!

Wednesday, November 15, 5:00-7:00pm

Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center

14 Mechanic Street, Southbridge, MA, 508-765-8000

www.SouthbridgeHotel.com

We will meet at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center in Shades Lounge.

Come and network with your fellow members! A variety of food selections from our menu will be served.

Try a specialty drink or grab a cold craft brew from one of our 10 taps!

You could win:

An Overnight Stay for Two including Breakfast at Southbridge Hotel

just for attending Fun at Five!

Register for Fun at Five by email or phone.

508-347-2761 

Cost is $12 for Members who register, $15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.

 We hope to see you there!

Thank you to our November Fun at Five Sponsor!

About TLC Home Services, LLC

TLC Home Services is a woman-owned company that has been cleaning homes and businesses with 100% satisfaction for the past 16 years. The company serves a variety of homes, offices, AirBnBs, campsites, and other spaces for clients.

TLC Home Services partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a non-profit organization for cancer patients. We give back to our community by donating two free home cleanings for any man, woman or child who are undergoing treatments.

“Our core values define who we are as a company,” said TLC founder and owner Tammie Chenevert. “They have brought us to where we are today and will carry us into the future. We are a small business with a big heart.”



TLC Home Services has earned Best Cleaning Service 2022 and Best Cleaning Service 2023. The company is also registered with S.A.M.gov to work on government jobs. To learn more visit tlchomeservicesllc.com.

TLC Home Services, LLC

Sturbridge, MA 01566

Phone: 508-347-3275

Email: [email protected]

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 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].

SAVE THE DATE FOR HOLIDAY FUN AT FIVE!

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12th @ THE PUBLICK HOUSE!

MORE INFO COMING SOON!

bankHometown Supports Local Food Pantries through

20th Annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fundraiser

Oxford, Massachusetts, October 16, 2023 – Robert J. Morton, president and CEO of bankHometown, is kicking off the bank’s annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors fundraising drive for 2023 to help support local food pantries. The annual appeal is part of the bank’s charitable giving program, The Giving Tree, which reflects the bank’s commitment to making a real difference in the neighborhoods it serves.

This marks the 20th year of the bank’s annual appeal, which invites bank customers, employees, and community members to donate money between November 1 and November 30 to help fight food insecurity. All donations up to $2,500 per customer will be matched dollar for dollar by bankHometown and the total raised will be divided among participating food pantries across Massachusetts and Connecticut in communities the bank serves. In 2022, through contributions and matching donations, the campaign raised over $66,000, and since inception has donated more than $331,000.

Donations of any amount are encouraged. As an added incentive to give, the bank offers those who donate the opportunity enter a drawing to win a $25 gift card, which will be awarded at each of its 16 locations.

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors shows how communities can come together to help others in need,” said Morton. “bankHometown is proud to lead this annual giving tradition. We thank everyone who selflessly gives each year.”

Those who wish to participate have until November 30 to make their donations. Checks should be made payable to “bankHometown Neighbors” and can be dropped off at any bankHometown branch or mailed to:

Mary C. Mulrenin

Executive Secretary

bankHometown

31 Sutton Avenue

Oxford, MA 01450

A total of 16 food pantries will be supported this year and include:

Massachusetts Food Pantries:

Athol Salvation Army Food Pantry

Auburn Youth and Family Services Food Pantry

CARE Food Pantry, Clinton

Food Share, Southbridge, Charlton & Sturbridge

Friendly House Pantry, Worcester

Ginny’s Helping Hand, Inc., Leominster

Millbury Senior Center Food Pantry

Oxford Ecumenical Food Shelf

Sutton Senior Center Michael A. Chizy Food Pantry

St. John’s Food for the Poor, Worcester

St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, Webster

Connecticut Food Pantries:

Community Kitchens of Northeastern CT, Killingly

Daily Bread, Putnam

Friends of Assisi, Killingly

Project PIN Food Pantry, Moosup

Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group

About bankHometown

Founded in 1889, bankHometown is headquartered in Oxford, Massachusetts and has $1.3 billion in assets and 16 branches located throughout Central Massachusetts and northeast Connecticut. Through its sponsorship and charitable giving program, The Giving Tree, bankHometown and the Hometown Bank Community Foundation support non-profit organizations and causes throughout Worcester and Windham Counties. In 2022, The Giving Tree donated approximately $320,000 and over the last decade has donated more than $2.5 million. For more information, visit bankhometown.com.

Second Chance Named 2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit 

GreatNonprofits Award Based on Community Recommendations

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (OCTOBER 20, 2023) Second Chance Animal Services announced today it has been named a “2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, the leading website for community recommendations of charities and nonprofits. Second Chance offers programs and services that help over 44,000 pets a year to live better lives. 

“We are honored to be named a 2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit,” says Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray. “We are proud of our accomplishments this year. The importance of our work has never been more pronounced as the economy continues to take a toll on pets in our communities. At our vet hospitals, more pet owners are relying on subsidized rates than ever before to care for their cherished companions. Meanwhile our shelter is taking in local surrenders at a rate not seen in over a decade.

The Top-Rated Nonprofit Award is based on the rating and number of reviews that Second Chance received from volunteers, donors, and aid recipients. In one review, a volunteer shared “I have been a volunteer with Second Chance for the past couple of years and continue to be impressed with how hard they work to not only help and care for the animals they rescue, but also the resources they give to animal owners in the communities they serve. From veterinary services, vaccine clinics, pet grooming, food banks, and more. They truly are an impressive organization.” 

“Second Chance is a great example of a nonprofit making a real difference in their community,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits,

“Their award is well-deserved recognition not only of their work, but the tremendous support they receive, as shown by the many outstanding reviews they have received from people who have direct experience working with Second Chance.”

GreatNonprofits is the largest donation website for nonprofits and where people share stories about their personal experiences on more than 1.6 million charities and nonprofits. The GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Awards are the only awards for nonprofits determined by those who have direct experience with the charities – as donors, volunteers, and recipients of aid.  

The complete list of 2023 Top Rated Nonprofits can be found at: https://greatnonprofits.org/awards/browse/Campaign:Year2023/Issue:All/Page:1

PHOTO: Rudy, a 5-year-old Manchester terrier mix is just one of the many pets waiting to find a new home at the Second Chance 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

Tickets for Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village

on Sale to the Public at the Best Discounts Available

Buy your tickets early and save on this popular holiday tradition!

Sturbridge, MA – Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village tickets go on sale to the general public beginning at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Oct. 27. This popular holiday event returns with select dates in November and December, inviting visitors to step into the past and celebrate New England holiday traditions of the 19th-century and today.

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

The staff of the Village plans year-round for this visitor's favorite event. This year over 80 cut trees will be delivered for the Christmas Tree Trail, over 4,000 candles in tin lanterns will light the Village, and over 2,000 yards of garland will adorn the Village buildings in their holiday finest.

Jean Contino, Coordinator of Domestic Crafts, says, “We started planning for 2023 the day after we closed in 2022!” With the help of over 200 volunteers and the United Way of South Central Massachusetts, her team has assembled over 1,500 craft kits for the event.

This year’s event will see the return of many favorite holiday activities, and always with a new spin.

Enchantment abounds  – Old Sturbridge Village’s 200-acre campus will be decorated for the holiday season. Guests can wander the Christmas Tree Trail and Christmas Wish Bridge, a nature path lit up with Christmas trees along the Quinebaug River. Or watch the evening come to life at a lighting ceremony every night at 4:30 p.m., ride in the horse-drawn carryall around the Village Common, visit the 500+ piece nativity set in Friends Meetinghouse, and view Christmas décor from the 1830s, 1850s, and 1870s in the Salem Towne House. Thanks to special contributions from Oakwood Farms Christmas Barn in Spencer, MA, the Asa Knight Store will feature the history of glass ornaments. The cabinetmaker will be crafting wooden toys and gifts and the tinners will be punching tin lanterns. Take in the sights and smells of holiday baking at the Freeman Farmhouse and visit with the farm animals, and so much more!

Step back in time – The households throughout the Village will feature various traditional craft demonstrations including making woolen ornaments, authentic marzipan, knitting Christmas stockings, baking cakes, punching tin lanterns, making pottery, and more. Sample mulled cider and Polish gingerbread and see other holiday treats being made.

“If you haven't been you have to go at least once! It's delightful!” —Social media comment

Get hands-on with crafts – Visitors can make crafts at various stations throughout the Village, purchase craft kits in our shops for gift giving, and try candle dipping for an additional fee.

Hear stories of the season – Visitors can sit and listen to readings of The Nativity Gospel of Saint Luke and The Nativity Gospel of Saint Matthew in the Friends Meetinghouse or hear classic Christmas tales being told including Spanish readings of Un Cocqui de Boriquen a Puerto Rican children’s story.

If you missed your chance last year to learn about the oldest dance on the island of Puerto Rico, join us at this year’s Christmas by Candlelight event. “I loved seeing kids and their families joining in the fun of the story I read about the Puerto Rican coqui and Los tres Reyes Magos and dancing with me,” says Jasmin Rivas, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access. “It’s a special feeling to be able to share about my culture with others.”

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

“We went a couple of weeks ago and it was snowing. It was magical and so beautiful.” – Guest comment from 2022

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

Gingerbread House Contest– An annual favorite, enter our Gingerbread house baking contest and put your creation on display. Families, professionals, as well as home bakers are all welcome and guests can vote for their favorites! Enter your creation by November 12, 2023. Details online.

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

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

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

Lodging Packages – For those traveling a distance or meeting family in the area, enjoy a peaceful night at the Old Sturbridge Inn & Reeder Family Lodges. Special packages are available for Christmas. Start planning your visit today and save big while creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Ticket Information

Ticket sales launch to the general public on October 27 with early bird rates through November 23 and are available online in advance at a discount. It is highly recommended that you purchase tickets online in advance. Tickets will be full price at the door. To find the list of available dates, as well as event and ticket information, go to www.osv.org/event/christmas-by-candlelight/.

Save with Membership

Members save more! Not a member? Membership is a gift that keeps giving all year long. Explore the benefits of membership at www.osv.org/membership/.

Fundación MAPFRE Donates $70,000 to United Way

 for Childcare and Nutrition Programs

Southbridge, MA – United Way of South Central MA (UWSCM) is pleased to announce that it has received a $70,000 grant from Fundación MAPFRE, a global non-profit organization that provides social assistance and promotes road safety. The grant is the first major gift this year that will support UWSCM's Bridging the Gap Campaign, which provides funding for critical childcare and nutrition programs in South Central Massachusetts.

“We are grateful to Fundación MAPFRE for their generous support of our partner agencies that provide affordable childcare and nutrition services for families and older adults,” said Mary O’Coin, Executive Director at UWSCM. “This funding will help us to ensure that children in our community have access to the high-quality preschool and afterschool childcare and nutrition for families so they can all thrive.”

The Bridging the Gap Campaign supports a variety of programs that provide childcare and nutrition assistance to low-income families in South Central Massachusetts. These programs include:

• Childcare subsidies that help families afford high-quality childcare at the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club of Webster-Dudley.
• Nutrition assistance programs through Tri-Valley, Inc. that provide food to older adults and individuals with disabilities.
• A weekly dinner program for families through the YMCA – Tri-Community Branch “What’s for Dinner” program.

“Fundación MAPFRE is pleased to support the United Way of South Central Massachusetts in its important work in the community,” said Jaime Tamayo, President and Chief Executive Officer of MAPFRE Insurance and Chief Representative of Fundación MAPFRE in the U.S. “We are proud to help the United Way’s Bridging the Gap Campaign to provide more essentials to children and adults.”

About Fundación MAPFRE

Fundación MAPFRE is a global non-profit organization that provides social assistance and promotes road safety. The foundation was established in 1975 by MAPFRE, a leading insurance company. Fundación MAPFRE works to improve the lives of people in need through a variety of programs and services, including support for children and families, disaster relief, and road safety initiatives.

About United Way of South Central MA

United Way of South Central MA is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of people in need in the towns of Southbridge, Sturbridge, Charlton, Dudley and Webster. UWSCM funds over 26 programs and services that address the critical needs of the community, including education, income, health, and housing.

The 2023 campaign will run through December 31. People can donate online at www.uwscm.org or by mail to United Way of South Central MA, 176 Main Street, Suite 400, Southbridge, MA 01550.

Annual Toy Drive Returns to North Brookfield Savings Bank

North Brookfield, MA – For North Brookfield Savings Bank the holiday season is a special time of year. It is when people and communities come together, and what better way to do so than by helping make sure that all children in our communities experience a wonderful, joy-filled, holiday season.

North Brookfield Savings Bank’s Annual Toy Drive aims to ensure holiday wishes come true for our younger community members. Starting November 1st and running through November 30th  monetary donations and new toys will be collected at Bank branch locations.

During the Toy Drive, community members are welcome to visit any branch location to make their donations of new unwrapped toys for children. All toys collected will be donated to local toy programs in each community, to ensure that local children in need will receive holiday presents. This year, the Bank’s Ware branch location will be primarily accepting monetary donations to help their local toy program partner the Ware Police Department, who has reformatted their program to be more tailored to each family in need. Our Belchertown location will only accept donations of toys, not funds, as their local toy program partner the Belchertown Police Department, has also reformatted their program.

In addition to toys, NBSB will accept financial contributions at each branch. The Bank will match every dollar donated, as well as contribute $1 for every toy collected, up to $250 per branch location.

“As a local Bank that places a high importance on embracing and committing to the values of kindness and community support, North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to continue the tradition of hosting our Annual Toy Drive at our locations,” said Nicole Syriac, Digital Marketing Strategist at North Brookfield Savings Bank. “We want to ensure that every child can have a wonderful holiday season, this year and every year. We know this goal is possible with the continued support and kindness of our local community. We invite all of you to visit us, as you have so generously done in the past, to make your contribution.”

Donations are being accepted at these North Brookfield Savings Bank branches:

• North Brookfield Branch, 9 Gilbert Street – partnering with the North Brookfield Police Association’s Toys for Joys Program

• East Brookfield Branch, 100 West Main Street, Route 9 – partnering with the East Brookfield Toys for Joy Program

• West Brookfield Branch, 128 West Main Street, Route 9 – partnering with the West Brookfield Police Association Holiday Toy Program

• Ware Branch, 40 Main Street, Route 9 – partnering with the Ware Police Department Holiday Toy Program - only accepting monetary donations for 2023

• Belchertown Branch, 4 Daniel Shays Highway, Routes 9 and 202 – partnering with the Belchertown Firefighters Association Adopt-a-Family Program - only accepting toy donations for 2023

• Three Rivers Branch, 2060 Main Street – partnering with the Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program

Syriac continued, “The holiday season is about caring for those around us and being generous. It is heartwarming every year to witness how our community members support each other. By partnering with the local toy drive organizations and our giving residents we are able to bring a child holiday cheer and truly embody the spirit of the holiday season. Thank you to everyone who plans to give this year and has supported this effort in the past.”

To learn more about North Brookfield Savings Bank’s community giving efforts and all the convenient banking products and services offered, visit www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.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, 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 and 2023. For additional information, please call 1-866-711-6272 or visit us online at www.NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank.com.

Rotary Club of Sturbridge Announces 3rd Annual TREK Sturbridge

Halloween 5K, 1K & Fun Walk Winners

Photo (r): Halloween costumes and rain gear were the fashion of the day as runners left the starting line for the 3rd Annual TrekSturbridge Halloween 5K/Fun Walk & 1K Road Race. (RaceWire Photo)

Photo (c): Brooks Billings (Age 4) came in first in the pre-teen category.

Photo (l): Eli Aliengena (Age 5) joined his dad, Josh, with a “best costume” award.

Sturbridge, MA – A heavy downpour didn’t dampen the spirits of runners and walkers in the third annual TREK Sturbridge Halloween 5K, 1K and Fun Walk that was held on Sunday, October 29, 2023. According to race director Klaus Hachfeld, the event went on with much enthusiasm and only minor inconvenience to the more than 100 participants and race volunteers.

The family-friendly event included a 5K Trail Run, a 1K Road Run, and a 5K Trail Fun Walk using the Old Sturbridge Village Education Center on Old Sturbridge Village Road and the Arbitus Park Trail in the Leadmine Mountain Conservation Lands. The event also included free games for younger children, a costume parade, and relay races organized by a volunteer team from Burgess Elementary School.

“What’s a little rain when you have such wonderful volunteers, supportive sponsors, and delightfully costumed runners of all ages,” says Hachfeld. “Thanks to everyone who helped make this event so successful for a third consecutive year.”

The results below were tabulated by Jody Kingman for RaceWire:

Top male finishers in the TREK Sturbridge Halloween 5K Trail Race included first place, Cole Cashman (18:38), second place, Andrew Herzog (19:52), and third place, Joshua Aliengena (20:46). Top female finishers included first place, Ann Considine (25:28); second place, Jessica Billings (27:25), and third place, Carolyn Bressette (28:56).

Top finishers in the TREK Sturbridge Halloween 1K Pre-Teen Road Race included first place, Brooks Billings (Age 4); second place, River Gendron (Age 5); third place, Eli Aliengena (Age 4); fourth place, Zachery Barberio (Age 12), and fifth place Reagan Herzog (Age 5).

The Trek Sturbridge Halloween 5K and Fun Walk is a Sturbridge Rotary Club fundraiser, with all profits going to local student scholarships and other community needs projects. Sponsors for the event included Big Bunny Supermarket, ClearCom IT Solutions, Cook’s Farm Orchards, Cormier Jewelers, Cornerstone Bank, Dave’s Pest Control, G&R Fish Market, George & Davis Attorneys at Law, Hearthstone Market, I Am T Shirts, Jeffrey N. Chasse Attorney at Law, Joe Klimavich Public Relations, Marino Law P.C., McCurdy Insurance, Old Sturbridge Village, Publick House Historic Inn, RE/MAX Professional Associates, Southbridge Credit Union, Studio 20/20, Tasse Fuel Corporation, Teddy G’s Pub & Grille, and Unique Hair by Chrissy.

Rotary International is a worldwide service organization of business and professional men and women united to provide Humanitarian Service, encourage High Ethical Standards in all vocations, and help build Goodwill and Peace throughout the world. The Sturbridge Rotary Club meets for dinner at 6 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of the month at the Publick House Historic Inn on Sturbridge Common, Route 131, Sturbridge. New members are welcome. For additional information, visit the Sturbridge Rotary Club website at https://sturbridgerotary.com/

The #1 Hispanic Newspaper in MA

The latest digital issue of Vocero Hispano is available on their website.

View the Latest Issue in Digital Online - Free to Members

Reach the Hispanic Market directly with the #1 Statewide Hispanic Newspaper in Massachusetts. Email [email protected] to get started.

33rd Annual Walktober

September 16 to November 5, 2023

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

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

(1A River Road, Sturbridge)

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

Opacum LT Visits Rapscallion TODAY!

Let's Drain the "Opacum Ale" Keg!

In honor of the limited release of "Opacum Ale", we're excited to invite you to join Opacum Land Trust for a casual meet-up event at Rapscallion Pub in Sturbridge!

Join Opacum Executive Director, Laney Wilder, and Board President, Leslie Duthie, for this fun opportunity to catch up with old friends and meet new ones, all while enjoying delicious Rapscallion beer and supporting Opacum's mission to protect land, water, and wildlife in central Massachusetts for current and future generations.

When: Wednesday, November 1st from 4 to 6 PM.

Where: Upstairs @ Rapscallion Pub, 3 Arnold Road, Sturbridge, MA

Why: A portion of the proceeds from each pour of "Opacum Ale" will be donated to Opacum Land Trust.

What: Opacum Ale is an American brown ale brewed with locally sourced maple syrup that shows notes of warm bread, caramel, and roasted malt and is 5.7% ABV. Opacum Ale is available at Rapscallion Pub in Sturbridge for a limited time only!

Stop by, say hi, and bring a friend. We'd love to see you there!

About Opacum Land Trust

Opacum Land Trust is a nonprofit organization founded in 2000 to protect the natural and cultural resources in south-central Massachusetts. OLT has helped to permanently protect more than 3,800 acres of land, including 2,011 acres that we directly own or hold conservation easements on.  We are committed to protecting our current properties and providing opportunities for passive recreation, while proactively pursuing new opportunities to protect additional land, wildlife, and natural resources.  

Join the Central Mass Library Advocates

for the Annual Trivia Night fundraiser!

Friday, November 3 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Touch A Truck

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

When: November 4, 2023

(Rescheduled from October 21)

Time: 11 am - 2 pm

Cost: FREE

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

For more information follow us on social @scoopsofhope

or contact us at [email protected].

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

Select Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from November through April.

Tickets still available for the November 10 Feast!

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

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



Spend Your Turkey Day with Us!

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

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

SEE THE THANKSGIVING MENU HERE!

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

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

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

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

Served through Italy, Porchetta is a popular dish in the city of Florence and can be found as “street food” in the form sandwich and also as a main entree served often for special occasions and holidays. Porchetta or Carne Di Maiale Porchetta is a derivative of the word porco, “pork,” and is slowly roasted for hours to create a delicious, moist, and flavorful meal.

Join Chef Rico, for this sure to sell out event, and be there to enjoy this old-world delicacy. Chef Rico will be pairing his porchetta recipe with an amazing assortment of side dishes native to the Florence area.

With the holidays approaching, this is a fantastic dish to add to your holiday cuisine repertoire.

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

Adaptive Hip Hop Class

Thursday, November 16, 2023, 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM

Venture Community Services, 1 Picker Road, Sturbridge

Join us for our new adaptive and inclusive hip hop dance class. This class is free of charge and geared toward people 16ys and over that may have disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). No experience is necessary, so give it a try! 

The class includes upbeat music, dancing and stretching led by Dance Instructor Bridget Costa from Shining Stars Dance Studio. Dancers can wear their own shoes and active wear they feel most comfortable in. Participants must be accompanied by an adult and don’t need to be receiving services from Venture – All are invited! 

https://venturecs.org/event/hip-hop-dance-class/ 

For more info and to RSVP email Kelsey Mondor: [email protected]

Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet Feast

The Publick House Historic Inn

Thursday, November 23rd, 2023

Seatings from 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Adults $70.00 Children (4-12yrs) $25.00 (tax & gratuity included)

Maximum seating time is allotted per each reservation

VIEW THE COMPLETE THANKSGIVING BUFFET MENU.

https://publickhouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Thanksgiving-Dinner-Buffet-Menu-2023.pdf

Reservations Required, Advanced Payment Required

Call Monday through Friday 9AM – 6PM to schedule your reservation at (774) 304-1524

www.publickhouse.com • On the Common, 277 Main Street, Route 131, Sturbridge, MA 01566

The Duck & Avellino

Join us for a bountiful dinner prepared by the talented Table 3 Chef’s at The Duck & Avellino. We'll be serving all your favorites—and some of ours too!

There will also be a great selection of house-made scrumptious desserts. Last year was a sell-out, so make your reservation early by calling 508-347-2321. The price for this pre-fixe holiday feast is just $44.95 per guest (plus tax & gratuity).

The Barn at Wight Farm

Join us from 11:30 am – 5:30 pm for our annual Thanksgiving Day Feast at The Barn at Wight Farm. The Barn’s buffet stations will be brimming with all your favorites and some of Chef Devon’s inspirations. The price for this holiday celebration is just $45.95 per guest (plus tax & gratuity). Make your reservation now by calling 774-241-8450.

Table 3 Thanksgiving Catering

Your one-stop shop for that perfect Thanksgiving holiday at home. The Barn and the Café will be preparing a fantastic assortment of all your favorites. You can order a complete Thanksgiving meal or select some great additions to make your Thanksgiving Day feast extra special. To order, call 774-241-8450. Orders must be placed by 2pm Monday, Nov. 20.*

*Pick up times for catering at The Barn at Wight Farm are Wednesday Nov. 22 from 7am–3pm. 

Santa will be visiting The Barn again this year for a fantastic holiday brunch and to listen closely to the Christmas wishes from all the good little girls and boys. Don’t miss this fun family event and photo opportunity having your little ones visit with Santa and his elves while enjoying an awesome brunch at The Barn. Pricing for this festive event is $24.95 for adults and $14.95 for children under 12.

Event to be held in the Winthrop Room at The Barn. Reservations are required. It may seem a little early to be thinking about Christmas, but all the Santa Brunch dates sold out last year so don’t delay in reserving your spot. Call 774-241-8450 to make your reservations now!

Enjoy a festive holiday buffet in the beautiful post-and-beam Winthrop Room at Wight Farm in Sturbridge, and then tour Christmas

by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village. Guests will enjoy a hot luncheon buffet with seasonal favorites including dessert and a full

cash bar. Afterward, head down the road to experience the Village lit up for the holidays. Learn about the origins of Christmas traditions, hear music and stories, taste holiday treats, inhale the aromas of mulled cider and gingerbread, ride the horse-drawn carryall, and more! Your guests will talk about this historical holiday event for months to come.

Limited space available. Book now!



• Friday, December 8th 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.

• Friday, December 15th 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.

Call 508-347-5056, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

All reservations should be requested before November 15th.

Lunch Buffet Menu includes:

• Mixed salad with dressing and rolls

• Stuffed pork loin

• Cracker-crusted cod

• Butternut Squash Ravioli

• Mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables

• Desserts with coffee and tea

• Full cash bar

Please notify us of any allergies, dietary restrictions, or mobility accessibility restrictions when you book.

The Winthrop Room, adjacent to the Barn at Wight Farm: 420 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA

Old Sturbridge Village: 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, MA

Free parking and easy access for motor coaches at both The Winthrop Room as well as Old Sturbridge Village Visitor Center.

Note: Minimum 16 people per group. A 50% deposit toward the package is required when booking. Full payment is required 30 days

before the package date with a confirmed headcount of guests by 2 weeks. Refunds will be honored until 2 weeks prior to the package date. Credit cards or checks should be made payable to Old Sturbridge Village. A confirmation letter will be emailed to the cardholder.

ENJOY AN EVENING

WITH COMEDIAN DAVE RUSSO & FRIENDS

Spend an evening with Boston Comedy Festival winner Dave Russo as seen on Comics Come Home

with Denis Leary and favorites at the Tropicana in Las Vegas. Featuring Foxwoods favorite - Pete Costello

who has shared the stage with over 25 national acts including Bruce Springsteen and Joan Rivers.

December 9, 2023

Pine Ridge Country Club

28 Pleasant Street, North Oxford, MA

Doors open: 6:30 pm. Show starts at 8:00 pm

Tickets $30. Raffles including 50/50

Tickets can be purchased online at www.eventbrite.com/e/laughing-all-the-way-comedy-

fundraiser-for-no-birthday-left-behind-tickets-709047037777

Or contact Cheri Holland at 508-320-0606

No Birthday Left Behind

"Every Child Deserves to Feel Special on Their Birthday"

No Birthday Left Behind is a non-profit supplying all the birthday

supplies to children in a Homeless Shelter in Worcester.

NBLB is a registered non-profit 501(C) (3), Tax ID 84-1822037

NoBirthdayLeftBehind.com

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