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Welcome to May's Crossroads!

May flowers with many events including tonight's Fun at Five networking event at Old Sturbridge Village, two ribbon cuttings, our seminar with an expert on Artificial Intelligence, and a Meat Raffle featuring meats smoked by B.T.'s Smokehouse. The Brimfield Shows are also back and celebrating their milestone 65th year with a ceremony commemorating its birthplace and Brimfield Auction Acres' listing in the National Register of Historical Places. You can read more about this distinction and find great events from the Chamber and our members happening today through Mother's Day in this issue.


CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news and events with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. If you have events to share in CROSSROADS, you can add them to our Events calendar anytime 24/7. Keep our readers informed of your latest news by emailing your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: MAY 15, 2024

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

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

CLOSED ON FRIDAY, MAY 10 FOR STAFF VACATION.

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

NETWORKING!

TONIGHT'S Fun at Five!

Wednesday, May 1, 5:00-7:00PM

Old Sturbridge Village

Ox & Yoke Mercantile

1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge MA 01566

www.osv.org


Located in the Oliver Wight Building just outside the main Visitor Center the Ox & Yoke Mercantile

is a great place to meet for coffee or tea, Village-made pastries, soups, salads, and desserts.

Looking for a gift? Find a wide variety of Village-made crafts and designs, plus New England made food items, gardening supplies, children’s books, toys, and so much more.

 

Join us for Networking at OSV’s Ox & Yoke Mercantile and Café!

Come see the newly renovated Ox & Yoke Mercantile and Café at Old Sturbridge Village. Enjoy delicious sweet and savory offerings including: Mediterranean inspired appetizers, Flatbread pizza, Short ribs,

Mashed potatoes, Root vegetables, Triple Chocolate Chip Cookies, Beer and Wine cash bar.

 

Get a peek behind the scenes at OSV and learn about what the Village has planned for the year ahead including special Christmas by Candlelight offerings and new membership perks. In addition, there will be games, raffles, prizes, and networking.

 

Will you join in the FUN?

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.

Thank you to our May Fun at Five Sponsor!

A handle. A Blade. And 200 years of experience. Dexter-Russell is a leading manufacturer of high-quality professional cutlery, with a history dating back to 1818. The company was founded in Southbridge, Massachusetts and began crafting knives and tools for local farmers and tradespeople. Today, Dexter-Russell is recognized as a top choice among chefs and foodservice professionals worldwide, offering durable, reliable, and expertly crafted knives that are designed to meet the needs of the modern kitchen.

Visit the Dexter Factory Outlet Store for great deals on quality products like kitchen cutlery, kitchen tools, industrial cutlery, tactical knives, and more! We have first quality as well as factory seconds at discounted prices.

 

OUTLET STORE HOURS: Thursdays 3:30pm – 6:30pm, Saturdays 8am – 12pm

Please call 1-800-343-6042 to confirm hours.

 

Dexter-Russell, 44 River St, Southbridge, MA, 508-765-0201, https://dexter1818.com/

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House

REGUS

Date: Friday May 3rd

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location: 198 Charlton Rd. Suite 8, Sturbridge, MA 01566


Regus and the Chamber of Central Mass South cordially invite you for an afternoon with snacks and refreshments

to celebrate the opening of the new Regus location in Sturbridge.

Guided tours are organized so that you can view the workplaces throughout the center.

The Chamber will cut the official red ribbon at 1:00 p.m.


ABOUT REGUS

For more than 30 years, Regus has helped businesses find and create the perfect workspace for their people.

Their extensive network of locations enables companies of all sizes to work wherever and however they need.

VISIT ONLINE FOR MORE.


Let us know you are coming

RSVP BY EMAIL: sturbridge.charltonrd@regus.com

Artificial Intelligence Seminar

Presented by Delcie Bean, CEO of Paragus I.T.

 

Wednesday, May 8 from 5:30-7:00pm

The Publick House Historic Inn - Craft's Hall

277 Main Street (Rte 131), Sturbridge

 

$25 per person.

Space is Limited! Please RSVP. 

Call 508-347-2761 or email info@cmschamber.org to save your spot!


Few things have been hyped as much as Artificial Intelligence. However, behind all that hype, many business owners are left wondering if, when and how AI is going to impact their business. In this highly interactive presentation we’ll take a moment to align on where AI is today, why everyone is talking about it, and where it is going in the near future. After establishing some context, we’ll explore how AI is being used today and more importantly, how you can start using it in your own business. Finally, we’ll leave lots of time for your questions.

 

Enjoy hot and cold hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar in Craft's Hall while we learn about Artificial Intelligence from an expert in the field.

 

HORS D' OEUVRES

Classic Beef Tartar on Potato Crisps, Roasted Beef, Basil & Goat Cheese Tartlets

Artichoke Beignets, Beef Bourguignon Puffs, Mac & Cheese Croquettes, Miniature Chicken Pot Pies


About the Presenter: Delcie Bean, CEO of Paragus I.T.

 

Since founding the company at the age of thirteen, Delcie Bean has transformed Paragus I.T. into one of the most successful, fastest-growing IT firms in the region. The company’s unique corporate culture and strategic approach to providing outsourced I.T. services to small-to-medium sized businesses have earned many accolades, including Inc. Magazine’s list of 5,000 fastest-growing businesses and Forbes Magazine’s 25 Small Giants.

 

As the company has grown, so has Delcie’s commitment to equity and inclusion. In 2014, he created Tech Foundry, an educational nonprofit designed to address the need for a skilled I.T. workforce by providing in-depth training for promising individuals from marginalized or underrepresented communities. In 2016, Delcie began the process of transitioning Paragus to a 100% employee-owned company.

 

Today, Delcie is on a mission to grow Paragus into a $250 million firm with offices all throughout the country. In doing so, Delcie aims to create more than 100 employee-owner millionaires. Most recently, Paragus expanded into Central Massachusetts by acquiring Comportz Technologies and opening an office in downtown Worcester.

 

When he isn’t at the helm of Paragus, Delcie is living the quiet life with his wife of 15 years and their three boys in southern NH, serving as a trustee of Bay Path University, and fulfilling his commitment to lifelong learning through his service to YPO.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Condesa Restaurante Mexicano

Date: Thursday, May 16th

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Sturbridge Plaza, 178 Main St, Suite A, Sturbridge

sturbridge.condesarestaurant.com

508-213-3337

As you step through the doors of Condesa, you're not just entering a restaurant; you're embarking on a sensory journey that will transport you to the heart of Mexico. The Chamber of Central Mass South invites you join us as we cut the official red ribbon and extend a warm welcome and best wishes to our newest Members at Condesa Restaurante Mexicano on Thursday, May 16th at 11:30am.

 

The welcoming ambiance at Condesa is carefully crafted to ensure that every visit is a memorable one. Our attentive and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through our menu, answer your questions, and make recommendations tailored to your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Mexican cuisine or a first-time explorer, we're here to make your dining experience enjoyable and informative.

 

Condesa extends a warm and genuine welcome to all of their guests, inviting you to become a part of their extended family. Guests of the ribbon cutting can enjoy authentic tastes of Mexico including tapas style samples of chicken quesadillas, chicken flautas, chips, salsa, street corn, and Horchata (rice and cinnamon drink).

 

Condesa will also be giving away three $25 Gift Certificates at the event!

 

Condesa is OPEN now with reservations, dine-in and takeout options available.

Visit sturbridge.condesarestaurant.com or

give them a ring at (508) 213-3337 and make a reservation today.

 

We hope you can be there for the Ribbon Cutting!

There is no cost to attend, and no RSVP is needed.

The Chamber of Central Mass South

MEAT RAFFLE

Charlton Beagle Club

103 Bond Rd., Charlton

Sunday, May 19, 3-6 PM

It’s time to fire up the BBQ!!

 

Six Rounds with Six Meats at Each Round

Each Round Features a Meat Smoked by BT’s Smokehouse

 

Meat Raffle Ticket Pricing: 

1 ticket for $1

6 tickets for $5

12 tickets for $10

25 tickets for $20

 

Meats include, but are not limited to:

Steaks, Roasts, Ribs, Smoked Ham, Brisket, Chicken, Hamburger, Hot Dogs and more!

 

Also, a 50-50 Raffle, Door Prize Raffle, and Gift Basket Raffle

Food and beverages provided by the Beagle Club


Help us spread the word!

Download, print and display this flyer where folks will see it!

Thank you for your support!

Welcome, New CMS Chamber Members!


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


A&M Tool and Design

www.am-tool.com

64 Mill Street, Southbridge, MA

(508) 764-3241


Established in 1948, A&M has been family owned since opening. Over the years, A&M has updated its facilities to remain on the cutting edge of machine shop capabilities and efficiency, while maintaining its industry-leading reputation and high precision part production abilities.


As a manufacturing facility, we also are aware of our surrounding environment. We are a green facility equipped with over 1200 solar panels and a wide array of recycling, with the goal of becoming a zero-waste shop. We also reach out to support our community in Southbridge and the surrounding Worcester County area wherever possible.



Condesa Restaurante Mexicano

sturbridge.condesarestaurant.com

178 Main St, Suite A, Sturbridge Plaza, Sturbridge, MA

(508) 213-3337


At Condesa, our story begins with a deep love for Mexican cuisine and a commitment to sharing it with the world.

Step inside and discover a world of mouth-watering & refreshing drinks, all crafted with love and served with a smile.

Our menu is designed to offer a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.


OPEN NOW for Takeout, Dine-in, Reservations, Outdoor seating (coming soon!)

DON'T MISS THE RIBBON CUTTING ON MAY 16TH!

M2M logo

FEATURED MEMBER2MEMBER OFFER!


SALEM CROSS INN

508-867-2345


Salem Cross Inn offers a 10% discount off of entrees. 

Does not apply to holidays, special events, or ticket sales and cannot be combined with any other promotion.


Click on the M2M logo to view all the M2M deals!

Are you using your Member2Member Discount Card? Take advantage of valuable discounts offered by our Members for our Members while you KEEP IT LOCAL! DOWNLOAD AND PRINT this one-page PDF flyer for details of this program which is a benefit of Chamber Membership you can pass on to all your co-workers and employees. Feel free to contact us if you have questions, need help adding your offer to the program, or need more M2M Cards.

SAVE THE DATE FOR A LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST WITH ANNE GOBI, MA DIRECTOR OF RURAL AFFAIRS

THE BARN AT WIGHT FARM

JUNE 11, 8:00-9:30AM

SPONSORED BY NORTH BROOKFIELD SAVINGS BANK

SAVE THE DATE FOR A NEW ENGLAND CLAMBAKE AT THE PUBLICK HOUSE!

MUSIC BY THE ISLAND CASTAWAYS BAND

JUNE 13, 5:00-8:00PM

SPONSORED BY COUNTRY BANK

BRIMFIELD AUCTION ACRES – National Historical Landmark

2024 ANTIQUE SHOW DATES MAY 14 – 18, 2024

Photo: Brimfield Rush - still going strong 65 years later.

BRIMFIELD, MA: The birthplace and originator of the world-famous “Brimfield Antique Show” will be recognized this May as listed in the National Register of Historical Places by the United States Department of the Interior. Planning, design and contributions came from the Brimfield Historical Society, the property’s current owners, the Corriveau family and a partial grant from MOTT (Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism).


In the exact field where visionary and auctioneer Gordon Reid started his vision of creating “The greatest outdoor antique show under the sun” in 1959, Gordon will be memorialized in bronze and stone in front of the iconic red barn where his auctioneer days began.


Along with the image of the entrepreneur, the plaque states: 


Birthplace of the world-famous Brimfield Antique Shows - Auction Acres - Auctioneer Gordon Reid gathered sixty-seven dealers on this farmland, aptly called “Auction Acres”. He launched the "Greatest Antique Show Under the Sun" envisioning Brimfield as the antiques’ center of the nation, and during his lifetime, the dream reached fruition. The show would grow to rival the nation’s most prestigious antique shows and today is touted by many as the greatest outdoor antique show on earth.


Gordon’s children, Gordon Jr., Jill and Judy, carried on the tradition as Auction Acres & J&J Promotions. The Shows, simply referred to as "Brimfield", eventually included nearby fields opening their own shows to accommodate the overflow of dealers who were vying for space at the antique center of the country.


Brimfield Shows evolved into a week-long event thrice a year, attracting thousands of dealers and show-goers from around the world and contributing millions of dollars in tourism to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.


This property is listed in the National Register of Historical Places by the United States Department of the Interior.


The unveiling of the monument is scheduled for 7:00am on May 17th, 2024 at 35 Main Street, Brimfield. The public is welcome to attend.


Photo (r): The Iconic Barn built circa mid 1800s which has been converted into Brimfield Winery.


About Brimfield Auction Acres

Originally opened by Gordon Reid in 1959 as the first outdoor antique show in Brimfield Massachusetts, Auction Acres is now run by Rusty and Kate Corriveau who welcome hundreds of dealers each year to show their wares on the 36-acre property. The original barn still sits on the property and is home to Brimfield Winery and Cider Barn, founded in 2019 by the Corriveau family. During the antique shows – as well as throughout the spring, summer and fall seasons – the Winery is open to guests looking for delicious wine, live music and an outdoor experience. 


Located just miles from the Massachusetts Turnpike, Auction Acres and Brimfield Winery is located on Route 20 at 35 Main Street in Brimfield, Mass. For details, visit Brimfieldauctionacres.com, Brimfieldwinery.com or on Facebook @brimfieldBest, @brimfieldwinery

Block Party to Celebrate 25 Years of Helping Pets: Second Chance Teams Up with Klem’s and Timberyard Brewing Co. for Milestone Anniversary Event


EAST BROOKFIELD/SPENCER, MA (April 19, 2024) – Second Chance Animal Services is thrilled to announce a collaboration with Klem’s and Timberyard Brewing Company for a fun-filled Anniversary Block Party, commemorating 25 years of unwavering dedication to improving the lives of over 386,000 cherished pets. The celebration, set for June 22nd, promises a dizzying array of exciting activities and heartfelt reunions.

 

Since its humble beginnings in 1999 as a small, volunteer-driven shelter on the founder’s sunporch with just $400 and a dream, Second Chance has evolved into a beacon of hope for over 49,000 animals annually. Founder and CEO Sheryl Blancato reflects on this remarkable journey with gratitude, stating, “Our achievements are a testament to the incredible support of our community. What better way to honor this milestone than with a block party where it all began? The event will celebrate not just past accomplishments, but all that we can accomplish in the future.”

 

Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray echoes Blancato's sentiments, emphasizing the interconnectedness of success among event’s cohosts: “There's an abundance of milestones to celebrate, including Klem’s 75th Anniversary and Timberyard Brewing Company's recent 5th Anniversary. Our journeys have intertwined over the years, reinforcing our shared commitment to animals.”

 

The festivities kick off at 10 am with exciting demonstrations at Klem’s and a vendor fair in the adjacent field offering a wide range of items for people and pets. At 11 am, animal enthusiasts are invited to a special book signing of Walking Off Leash with authors Joe and Sheryl Blancato at Timberyard. The book tells the story of Second Chance and was originally released in 2020 with no opportunity for a debut book signing. Meanwhile, a Reunion Yappy Hour awaits pets and their adoptive families from 11 am to 1 pm in the Timberyard beer garden, with a group photo at 11:30 am. The day continues with a range of engaging activities, including special guests, pet trivia, raffles, an auction, and the opportunity to meet and adopt furry companions from the mobile adoption unit stationed in the Timberyard parking lot.

 

Tickets are now on sale for the anniversary barbecue featuring wood-fired grilled chicken dinner cooked over local hardwood and smothered in house-made stout barbecue sauce, bacon-braised collard greens and homestyle mac and cheese. The vegetarian option will be tahini smoked local carrots with honey, toasted sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds with a side of homestyle mac and cheese. Tickets must be purchased in advance for the meal, with seatings at 12 noon and 6 pm. Visit secondchanceanimals.org/anniversary/ to purchase tickets and for a detailed schedule of events.

 

Second Chance extends a warm invitation to potential sponsors, donors, and vendors interested in contributing to this memorable occasion. The vendor fair, scheduled from 10 am to 4 pm, offers a prime opportunity for businesses and individuals to engage with a passionate audience. Complete information can be found at secondchanceanimals.org/anniversary/.

 

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 49,000 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:  https://www.facebook.com/secondchanceanimals

Follow Second Chance on Twitter:  https://twitter.com/secondchanceas

bankHometown Donates $10,000 to NewVue Communities

Fitchburg Arts Community Housing Development Project

OXFORD, MASSACHUSETTS, April 19, 2024 — bankHometown recently donated $10,000 to Fitchburg-based NewVue Communities’ innovative housing development project.

 

NewVue is dedicated to creating strong and healthy neighborhoods by helping families, small businesses, and communities with homeownership, housing development, community organizing, and small business technical assistance. While they provide services to the 22 towns in their footprint, they have identified Fitchburg as their primary focus. Their work is at the center of many redevelopment efforts in Fitchburg, and they hope to further enhance their presence by offering a multitude of programs and services to families and businesses in the city.

 

“NewVue has a history of delivering opportunities to help people realize their dreams of homeownership, business ownership, and financial independence,” said bankHometown President and CEO Robert J. Morton. “We’re proud to strengthen the foundation of our communities with this partnership and help so many realize their full potential.”

 

According to Marc Dohan, executive director at NewVue, this housing development project focuses on the construction of the Fitchburg Arts Community which began in June 2023 and is the culmination of 10 years of work to get to this point. This community will provide 68 mixed-income, artist preference apartments in three former historic municipal buildings. NewVue is converting the former BF Brown Middle School (62 Academy Street), the former City Stables, and the former High School Annex (82 Academy Street) into apartments and artist amenities. The project is located across the street from and in partnership with the Fitchburg Art Museum. Dohan says this project is more than just innovative affordable housing that allows families to find a place to call home, but is an opportunity to nurture and sustain a creative community in Fitchburg, providing residents with professional development and programming.

 

“bankHometown has a strong and important presence in the community,” said Dohan. “We are grateful for their generosity as they support the final and most exciting stage of the Fitchburg Arts Community.”

 

In the Photo (left to right)                                 

Delores Thibault-Munoz, deputy director, NewVue Communities

Marc Dohan, executive director, NewVue Communities

Donna Daigle, vice president, regional branch manager in Leominster, bankHometown

Rob Morton, president and CEO, bankHometown

Kerry Flathers, director of development and communications, NewVue Communities

Christina DiRusso, vice president, commercial lending, bankHometown and NewVue Board of Directors treasurer


About bankHometown:

Founded in 1889, bankHometown is headquartered in Oxford, Massachusetts. We have $1.4 billion in assets and offer a complete line of consumer and business deposit and lending products and services through 16 branches located throughout Central Massachusetts and northeast Connecticut. We’re proud to fulfill our community banking mission—providing individualized financial support, a suite of comprehensive products and services, and smart banking technology—all to ensure our customers can unlock their potential and build a successful future.

 

Through our 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 2023 alone, The Giving Tree donated nearly $400,000 and over the last decade has donated more than $2.7 million. bankHometown was proud to be named a 2023 Corporate Citizenship Award winner by Boston Business Journal. For more information, visit bankhometown.com.

New Energy Management Resource Available from EPA’s ENERGY STAR Program


ENERGY STAR has been working with U.S. manufacturers for over 20 years, helping them to reduce energy waste in their manufacturing operations. Now, ENERGY STAR is opening regional Industrial Assistance Networks (IANs) where manufacturers can learn about energy management and how to save money! There is no cost associated with enrollment in the network or training.


Participants will receive: 

  • Trainingmonthly, hour-long, virtual training on energy management; 
  • Networkingquarterly workshops and meetings to share best practices; 
  • Coachingassistance from industrial energy management experts to refine your energy program; and, 
  • Tools – introduction and access to ENERGY STAR resources and services provided by other regional energy efficiency programs working with ENERGY STAR. 

 

Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce members are invited to join the Region 1 ENERGY STAR Industrial Assistance Network by emailing a short note to R1EnergyNetwork@energystar.gov indicating their interest and providing basic contact information (e.g., name, title, organization, site location, email address). We are hoping to start training this spring, so we want to get as many manufacturers enrolled as possible before the first training begins. 


You can learn more about the ENERGY STAR Industrial Assistance Network at www.energystar.gov/assistancenetwork.

If you have any questions, please contact R1EnergyNetwork@energystar.gov.

bankHometown Rehires Capone as Branch Officer in Lancaster


OXFORD, MASSACHUSETTS, April 22, 2024 — bankHometown recently rehired Jerry Capone as branch officer of its Main St., Lancaster office.

 

Capone, of Leominster, has more than two decades of experience in banking. Before joining bankHometown, he was a lending specialist at Central One Federal Credit Union. Before that, he was assistant branch manager at bankHometown’s Lancaster office, as well as branch manager at TD Bank, Athol Savings Bank and Southbridge Savings Bank. Capone earned an associate degree from Mount Wachusett Community College and is active in the community, having served as both an organizer and teacher at NewVue Communities, and a restoration volunteer for Habitat for Humanity.

Arrive by 6:15pm for the singing of the National Anthem by Sarah Clarke, 

Director of BSA and Compliance at Southbridge Credit Union.


THANK YOU TO OUR NIGHT WITH THE WOOSOX SPONSOR:

Southbridge Credit Union has been a trusted part of your neighborhood since 1938. SCU was created by local people and is led by local people. We are a credit union, not a bank. That means that our members are our top priority, and ensuring your financial health will always be our focus. We offer a full range of products and services to support you and your financial goals. As a trusted credit union, and a not-for-profit organization, we’re able to pass on more savings and better rates to our members, while also supporting the community where we all live and work.


At SCU, we are volunteers. We are coaches. We are friends. We are neighbors. We are community. We’ve got you.

UMass Memorial Health - HARRINGTON Community Education Series

To Register

Call 508-765-2154 or email marysol.cruz@umassmemorial.org

To Register

Call 508-765-2154 or email marysol.cruz@umassmemorial.org

Presented In Spanish

Call 508-765-2154 or email marysol.cruz@umassmemorial.org

Dexter Factory Outlet | 44 River Street | Southbridge, MA 01550

UPCOMING EVENTS

Hometown Mortgage: Free Homebuyer Seminar


Hometown Mortgage, bankHometown’s mortgage division, is hosting a free homebuyer seminar on May 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at bankHometown’s Worcester office, 270 Grove Street, Worcester, MA, 01605. Join our experienced lending professional Francisco Valdes (NMLS# 1622231) in partnership with Brian Carpenter, broker and owner of 1 Worcester Homes. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, our experts will guide you through the process from start to finish. Learn about home loans, down payments, credit scores, and more. Get your questions answered and gain valuable insights to make your homebuying

journey a smooth one.


This is a free event, but space is limited. To register, visit www.HFGmortgage.com/HomebuyerSeminar.


About Hometown Mortgage

At Hometown Mortgage, we help potential borrowers unlock the right home financing solution for their unique needs. As a division of bankESB, a Hometown Financial Group company that also includes bankHometown and Abington Bank, we leverage our combined strength coupled with shared services and technology to work with homebuyers across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and neighboring states to make homebuying simple and stress-free. At the same time, our commitment to community banking and local roots mean we can focus on the unique needs of those who live and work in the communities we serve. For more information, visit HFGmortgage.com

Maui Jim and More Trunk Show at Studio 20/20

May 3rd from Noon to 5PM


Join Studio 20/20 for their 5th semi-annual trunk show. The featured sunglass collections are Maui Jim and Zeal. The featured frame collections are Roger Eyewear and Struktur Eyewear. This is your opportunity to have entire collections at your fingertips to try, buy, or record your favorites for a future purchase. Don't forget, sunglasses make great gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day, Grad gifts which are right around the corner. 


Everyone welcome. No appointment required.

Gateway Players Theatre: “Off She Goes”


Gateway Players Theatre of Southbridge presents “Off She Goes” by local playwright Ed Humphries. Performances will be held on May 3 & 4 at 7:30pm, May 5 at 2pm, and May 10 & 11 at 7:30pm. All performances will be held at the Fellowship Hall of Elm Street Congregational Church, 61 Elm Street in Southbridge. Parking is available on Elm Street, or in the parking deck behind the Southbridge Town Hall. 


This production will be directed by Ed Humphries, produced by David Corkum, and the Stage Manager is Gwen O’Brien. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors and youth under 18. Tickets may be reserved by calling Gateway at 508-764-4531. Online credit card ticket sales are available at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/gateway-players/off-she-goes 


The cast includes: Lynn Boucher – “Ellie” Linda Bouthillier – “Anna” Tey Gallipeau – Young Ellie” Eric Hart – “Arthur” Jordan Miller – “Clark” Mikey Dearn – “Jackson” Stephen Jean – “Michael” Samantha Reynoso – “Corinne” Sean Nault – “Peter” 


Synopsis: “Off She Goes” is a comedy/drama about a British war bride, Ellie - who after saying goodbye to her husband of 60 years, moves into an assisted living community - assuming she’ll just mark time until her own time comes. But fate has other plans for her when she meets her new roommate, Anna - also a British war bride who came to the States after the war and finds she shares a surprising connection with Ellie. As Ellie flashes back to the pivotal moments of her life - the two women form a friendship and come to realize that while they may never have gone home again, maybe home has finally come back to them.

Early Successional Forest & Birds Walk

When: May 4th @ 8 AM (Rain Date May 5th @ 8 AM)

Where: Sleepy Hollow, Brimfield, MA

Cost: Free, RSVP Required


Join Forester and Opacum Director Scott Gerrish to learn more about how a forest recovers from a tornado and about the importance of young forests as bird habitat.


Sleepy Hollow has a nice seasonal brook and diverse surrounding wetland and is a unique property in our region with great potential. Learn about what Opacum Land Trust has in store for this property too! The walk will last about 2 hours and cover a distance of approximately 1 mile over terrain that is uneven and shrubby. Dress appropriately and check for ticks.


PLEASE RSVP as space is limited for the walk (20 people).


**An Important Note About Parking** – There is limited parking available at the property. We are asking all attendees to meet at 7:45 AM at the Hitchcock Academy parking lot (corner of North Main Street and Brookfield Road in Brimfield). We will park there and carpool to Sleepy Hollow. The carpool will leave the Hitchcock parking lot promptly at 8:00 AM.


RSVP HERE


ALSO IN MAY: Saturday, May 11th at 1 PM – "Signs of Spring" Walk @ Heins Farm, Sturbridge, MA

MORE INFO AND REGISTRATION PAGE HERE.

Photo Workshop and More at Ruth Wells Center in May


The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, located at 111 Main Street in Southbridge, is honored to host a photography workshop, “Our Perceptions”, led by Arthur Furtado and Helen Boyle on Saturday, May 4 from 9-11am


The first hour of this workshop will be dedicated to detailing the process and general techniques of creating professional images with digital equipment. The second hour will cover the "eye" of the photographer and how to explore methods of creating images in a unique way.


This workshop is free to Ruth Wells for the Arts members, and is $15 for non-members. Membership sign up button is on the website, ruthwellscenter.com.


All attendees should contact Arthur Furtado (afurtadoart@verizon.net) to register. For more information, call the Center at 508 764 3341.


The month of May will feature the photos of Arthur Furtado and Helen Boyle on display in the Ruth Wells Center galleries. Gallery hours are Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4pm. The opening reception is Saturday, May 11 from noon to 4pm. Light refreshments will be served as visitors will have the opportunity to view the fine art on exhibit. The gallery show is free and open to the public.


The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts was established in 1977 as the Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts and Humanities and has continued to offer art and culture to the community. For more information, go to the website, ruthwellscenter.com or the facebook page. May is an exciting month with the photography workshop May 4, the opening reception May 11, the community tag sale on the lawn, May 11 and the gallery exhibit throughout the month.

Rapscallion: Cinco de Mayo with Carlos Odrio Trio

Sunday, May 5, 2024

Rapscallion Pub, 3 Arnold Road, Sturbridge


The Carlos Odria Trio is a high energy fusion band that performs original compositions and arrangements of jazz standards and Latin American popular music. Join us for Cinco de Mayo to enjoy this amazing live music along with food and drink specials to celebrate Latin heritage. 


See the food specials and more online!

Join us on May 5th for a day packed with Mexican flair and fun!


Experience the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of Mexico right here at Condesa Restaurante Mexicano. Our restaurant will be transformed into a hub of celebration, with music, laughter, and joy filling the air. Take a break from the ordinary and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Cinco de Mayo. Whether you're dining with family, friends, or flying solo, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.

Small Business Marketing Workshop

Elevate your marketing game by attending our Small Business Marketing Workshop.

This 2-day in-person workshop is ideal for new and existing small businesses aiming to enhance their marketing knowledge and drive growth.


This Small Business Marketing Workshop will feature:


Fundamentals of Marketing: Tuesday, May 6, 2024, 5:30pm-7:45pm

Explore the essentials of marketing with a focus on discovering your unique value proposition, crafting customer-first stories, and developing a strategic marketing plan. This class equips you with the knowledge to articulate what sets your business apart, connect with your audience on a deeper level, and create a roadmap to guide your marketing efforts efficiently.


Social Media Marketing: Monday May 13, 2024, 5:30pm-7:45pm

Learn to captivate and expand your audience with our Social Media Marketing course. Gain skills in creating engaging content and leveraging social platforms to elevate your small business's online presence and increase sales.


This 2-day workshop is presented by Aaron J. Keyes, a marketing professional.


Seats will be limited, Spots are filling FAST


$50.00 per person per 2 session workshop


Both sessions will be held IN PERSON at Jacob Edwards Library, 236 Main Street, Southbridge MA 01550


Financial Assistance is available for income-qualified small businesses.

Please contact: Lindsaya@qvcdc.org BEFORE registering if you are interested in applying for a Technical Assistance Grant.


REGISTER


Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation & Quaboag Valley Business Assistance Corporation

23 West Main Street, Ware, MA 01082, 413-967-3001, www.qvcdc.org

Flea Market at Brookfield Orchards

Saturday, May 11, 2024, 8:00am-2:00pm


We invite you to join us for our Flea Market in May! This is a traditional Flea Market with "USED ITEMS" only! We will have Live Music from 11am-2pm! Our Snack Bar will be OPEN for a bite to eat or to enjoy a Hot Apple Dumpling! Visit our Facebook page for fun updates!


Want to join the Flea Market: Show up between 6:30 and 7:30 to get your spot and unload. Spots are $20 a car and you are required to have your own tables and chairs and/or canopy. 


Any more questions? Give us a call at 508-867-6858

Join the FESTIVAL OF GIVING TREES for a fun night at Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino

Sat, May 11th 2PM-10:30PM


Includes: Round trip motor coach, Wine/beer and cheese and crackers on way to Casino, 5+ hours at Casino,

Dinner at Roadhouse ($20 credit pp), Dance Party at Wolf Den, Pizza on the ride home. Tax & Gratuities included!


VISIT ONLINE FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! https://sparklingtrees.com

heart_mommy_card.jpg

Mother’s Day

Sunday, May 12, 2024


It’s the day to celebrate the most important person in our lives… MOM!


So why not treat her to a lovely Mother’s Day meal and join us. 

Our Dining Room is open from 11:30 to 3:00 with reservations on the half hour.


Reservations can be made by calling 508-867-2345 during office hours Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please leave a message and a daytime phone number if you are unable to reach us and we will return your call.


VIEW THE MOTHER'S DAY MENU HERE!


Now Serving... Spring has sprung here at Salem Cross Inn, which means we have a new menu of seasonal dishes available for you! Come on down to treat your taste buds to these spring food and drink offerings.

We'll see you soon!

HOURS OF OPERATION

Thursday, Friday, & Saturday: 4pm - 8pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm

Call 508-867-2345 for reservations.

Visit the Facebook page for the latest updates.


www.salemcrossinn.com

CLICK THE GRAPHIC FOR INFO AND RESERVATIONS

Mother’s Day Dinner Buffet

Sunday, May 12th, 2024

Publick House Historic Inn

Seatings from 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Adults $52 Children $25 (4-12yrs)

(tax & gratuity NOT INCLUDED)

Maximum seating time allotted per each reservation

Reservations Required, Credit Card Required to Hold

72 Hour Cancellation Policy

For Reservations please call 774-304-1524

Monday - Friday 10 AM – 5PM

VIEW THE MENU

VOLUNTEER at the Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Show

2024 SHOW DATES: May 14-19, July 9-14, September 3-8


It's back! The Brimfield Antiques and Collectibles Show has been dubbed "the Queen of the outdoor shows" and a Smithsonian Treasure. The shows celebrate 65 years in 2024!


VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The Chamber is looking to staff its Information Booth at the Shows with friendly volunteers who can orient visitors to the show, sell T-shirts and enjoy some fine people-watching. We have 3-hour shifts available Tuesday-Saturday between 8am-5pm. If you can help please contact Alix to reserve your shift!

Thank you to our awesome Brimfield volunteers who have already signed on!

MassHire Central Job Fair at the DCU Center

50 Foster Street, Worcester, MA

May 14, 2024, 11:00am to 3:00pm


We are very excited to once again offer the largest job fair in Central Massachusetts to our area employers on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM (employer check-in at 9:45AM). Join this amazing opportunity to meet and interview job seekers! 

Space is limited and participation is on a first come, first served basis. 


COST TO REGISTER: $520.00 WHAT YOU GET: – Access to qualified job candidates, in-person – One 6′ table with a table linen for your business – Your company name on some promotional materials advertising the event indicating your company’s participation in the event – Unlimited online job ads for your openings on JobQuest – Statewide marketing of the event through mediums such as online, social media campaigns, email blasts, text blasts, billboards, radio and television – Lunch and refreshments provided! – Validated Parking for all employer representatives


FREE for Job Seekers Register here

Employers: contact MassHire Central Career Center at 508-799-1600 for a table at the Job Fair.

Contact, pre-pay and find event info at www.sparklingtrees.com/cornhole

or Venmo after registering on Scoreholio @GivingTrees-FestivalGivingTree. Be sure to add team name.

West Brookfield Asparagus and Flower Heritage Festival

May 18, 2024, 10:00am-3:00pm

West Brookfield Town Common, 36 North Main Street, West Brookfield, MA


Join West Brookfield in celebrating all things asparagus! Always the 3rd Saturday in May.

Follow on Facebook for all the details: www.facebook.com/events/1071070957485724

Tutti Quanti Wine Tasting

May 21, 6:30 - 8:00pm

538 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01518


All Wine Tastings are from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Attendees will gain insights into the principles of pairing different wines with specific types of cuisine, creating a sensory journey that celebrates the nuances of both food and wine in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Savor a carefully curated selection of our wines paired with our products.


Registration fee is $10 and can be purchased on EventBrite (see link below). Note there is no seating. No refunds. Guests will receive a $5 voucher to be used for a store purchase and are able to shop for wine and food after the event.


PLEASE NOTE: If you register for an event, we count on you seeing you there. As you may expect, we prepare food and wine based on our registration numbers. Please email Laurie if you need to cancel your registration.


To Register: www.tuttiquantifoods.com/wine-tastings-events/


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Executive Committee


Christina Hadis-Blackwell, Chair

The Center of Hope


Emily Klamm, 1st Vice Chair

Old Sturbridge Village


Cynthia Saucier, Immediate Past Chair

Country Bank


Bruce Watkins, Treasurer

Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.



Board of Directors


Brad Arcoite

Table 3 Restaurant Group


Michael Checkosky

Cornerstone Bank


Alycia Dzik

Webster First Federal Credit Union


Rich Eichacker

Vibrance Technology Corp





Kelly Hibbard

Harrington Hospital


James Laney

Century 21


Christine Lee

Arborstone Outdoors


Anthony Marini

bankHometown


Trevor Nielsen

Edward Jones


Erika Travinski

The Center of Hope


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
Email Alix
Jack Starkey
Communications & Media 
Email Jack
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