Welcome to February's Crossroads News!

February is here and the Chamber calendar is full of opportunities to learn, network and play! The deadline to register for the Annual Meeting with Dr. Charles Steinberg at The Publick House is February 5th. We’ll be networking at the newly rebranded Wellsworth Hotel in Southbridge on Tuesday the 13th. On Friday the 16th, the Chamber will present a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially welcome PickleballU, a brand new pickleball complex in Sturbridge. You will also find big news and some lovely event offerings from our Members in this issue.

CROSSROADS is our Members' platform to share their latest news with over 1,000 fellow Chamber Members and subscribers in our community. Help us fill up our 2024 Events calendar with your happenings and keep us posted by emailing us your press releases, links and photos for inclusion in CROSSROADS. NEXT ISSUE: FEBRUARY 15, 2024

CHAMBER OFFICE INFO

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

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

CMS CHAMBER OFFICE, 1A RIVER ROAD, STURBRIDGE

CHAMBER OF CENTRAL MASS SOUTH

ANNUAL MEETING

FEBRUARY 9, 2024 8:00am to 9:30am

GUEST SPEAKER: DR. CHARLES STEINBERG

PRESIDENT OF THE WORCESTER RED SOX

THE PUBLICK HOUSE HISTORIC INN

277 MAIN STREET, STURBRIDGE

You are cordially invited to attend as The Chamber of Central Mass South holds its Annual Meeting on Friday, February 9, 2024, from 8:00am – 9:30am in Paige Hall at The Publick House in Sturbridge.

The Chamber is very pleased to welcome the President of the Worcester Red Sox Dr. Charles Steinberg as our keynote speaker. Dr. Steinberg will speak to some of the challenges the WooSox have experienced due to Covid, share some success stories, and speak to the new ownership of the team.

Agenda

8:00 Breakfast Buffet Begins

8:15 Welcome from Christina Hadis-Blackwell,

Board Chair, Chamber of Central Mass South

8:30 Highlights from the Past Year,

Alexandra McNitt, Executive Director, Chamber of Central Mass South

8:50 Dr. Charles Steinberg, Worcester Red Sox, President

9:15 Q&A

9:30 Adjourn

Breakfast Buffet Menu

House-Made Pecan Sweet Rolls, Muffins & Coffee Cake with Butter

Fresh Fruit, Melon & Berries

Assorted Cold Cereals

Scrambled Eggs

Belgian Waffles

Tuscan Vegetable Quiche

Breakfast Potatoes

Bacon & Sausage Links

Orange & Cranberry Juices

Regular & Decaffeinated Coffee & Assorted Hot Teas

The cost to attend is $35 per person for Chamber Members

($300 for a table of 10) or $40 per person for non-Members.

Please RSVP by phone or email by noon on February 5.

508-347-2761

email: [email protected]

JOIN US FOR NETWORKING!

Fun at Five!

Tuesday, February 13, 5:00-7:00pm

Wellsworth Hotel

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

www.wellsworthhotel.com

Refined, Renewed, and Refreshed – Welcome to the Wellsworth Hotel

After 23 wonderful years as Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center, we’re excited to showcase our new name: Wellsworth Hotel, a symbol of our commitment to innovation, excellence, and renewed vision. Wellsworth pays homage to American Optical Company, founded by George Wells more than 160 years ago in the very spot we're in now. Wellsworth Hotel today honors the legacy of its name with careful preservation of the

American Optical historic clock tower, façade, foyer, and elegant marble staircase.

For more information and our detailed history, head to the History page of our new website.

A variety of food selections from our menu will be served at Fun at Five.

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 Wellsworth Hotel

just for attending Fun at Five!

Will you join us for 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 February Fun at Five Sponsor!

Our Mission

Consistently deliver tools defined by unparalleled quality, usability, and craftsmanship,

ensuring exceptional value for our customers with every HYDE® product.

Hyde Tools, Inc.

A Hyde Group Company

54 Eastford Road, Southbridge, MA, 01550

You're Invited to a Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening Celebration!

Sturbridge Plaza, 178 Main Street, Suite C, Sturbridge, MA

pickleballu.com

Friday, February 16, 2024 at 2:00PM

The Chamber of Central Mass South invites the community to join in as it welcomes its newest member business, PickleballU, to Sturbridge with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony followed by a Grand Opening celebration on Friday, February 16 at 2:00pm.



PickleballU is a state-of-the-art 19,000-square-foot, indoor facility located at 178 Main Street in the Sturbridge Plaza which offers 6 regulation pickleball courts, a players’ lounge and fully stocked pro shop, year-round memberships, open play, league play, tournaments, and intro clinics for all ages and skill levels. If you play or are curious to learn more about this incredibly popular sport, PickleballU is your local destination to get in the game!

The Chamber will present the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on February 16th at 2:00pm sharp and the open house will follow with tours of the facility, free pickleball play, giveaways, treats and a raffle for valuable prizes!

Come join us for “Free Play Friday.” Register at pickleballu.com to reserve your open play time and complete your waiver.

For more about PickleballU, visit pickleballu.com or email requests to [email protected].

All are welcome to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

There is no cost and no need to RSVP.

New Member Spotlight:

Engravity Engraving for Custom Promotional Items

Engravity Engraving stands as your local go-to destination for high-quality, customized promotional products. Let us be the key to unlocking a world of possibilities for your brand, fundraising endeavors, booster clubs, and employee appreciation initiatives. Elevate your brand, make a statement, and leave a lasting impression. Engravity can turn items like patch hats, trays, coasters, engraved leatherette goods, key chains, glassware, glass awards, acrylic awards, trophies, name badges, pens, patches, tumblers, water bottles, and many more into personalized brand statements. Whether enhancing your brand, fundraising, or expressing employee appreciation with personalized gifts, Engravity has a solution for you.

Visit Engravity online at engravityengraving.com/ to browse their catalog, and find over 2500 5-Star reviews of their products.

Engravity's online store offers FREE shipping on orders over $75.

Their Etsy shop offers FREE shipping over $35. Etsy.com/shop/engravity

You can also find Engravity on Facebook and Instagram.

Massachusetts Hotel Undergoes Name Change, Rebranding  

The newly named Wellsworth Hotel blends historic ambience with rich amenities for the leisure and business traveler.

Photo credit: Wellsworth Hotel 

SOUTHBRIDGE, MA (January 22, 2024) - The Southbridge, Massachusetts-based Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center has completed a name change and rebranding to the historically rich Wellsworth Hotel.  

The change of name, brand reconfiguration and new website pays homage to the historic and entrepreneurial spirit of George Washington Wells, who was the owner of what became one of the largest and most respected optical companies in the world - the American Optical Company, locally known as “AO.”  

Wells believed that everyone who needed them - not just the elite - should have access to eyeglasses. Thus, he changed

history by bringing eyeglass manufacturing to the U.S. in the late 1800s, by converting a textile mill in Southbridge, Massachusetts, into an optical factory, which houses the Wellsworth Hotel today. The company used the Wellsworth trademark starting in 1911 until 1927. The evolution of the Wellsworth brand began as a type of lens, the Wellsworth Crookes, then extended onto a frame, the Wellsworth Windsors aka “the most beautiful spectacle in America,” and then to AO’s ahead-of-its-time lifestyle magazine, The Wellsworth. 

In fact, the historic landmark holds such reverence that the American Optical Historic District was formally designated to the National Register of Historic Places during a plaque ceremony at the hotel on January 25, a major step toward preserving the area.  

“As the pandemic changed the way people travel, growing a larger mix of business and leisure travel clientele came into a stronger focus,” said Charles "Chip" Norton, owner of the hotel. “The hotel embodies a distinctive hybrid of hospitality with storied history, top-notch amenities and a state-of-the art-conference center. The rebrand better tells this story and carries it forward as we continue to attract new leisure guests and business clients.”  

Embracing the best elements of the former Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center, the Wellsworth Hotel draws on the original brand ethos that balances beauty, form, and function with rich historical significance. The property features 203 guest rooms and suites, a fitness center with a racquetball court and basketball court, indoor pool, outdoor courtyard, restaurant, lounge and more. 

Accredited by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC), the hotel’s event and meeting space is a hub for innovation and gathering of minds. Steve Gardiner, general manager, added “the Wellsworth Hotel offers 24,000 square feet of flexible meeting and conference space. We’re also centrally located between all the major cities in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island creating an optimal setting for organizations, corporations, and associations across the Northeast to host business functions, whether intimate or large in size.”   

The property’s meeting and event spaces include a ballroom, a 250-seat auditorium and multiple breakout rooms. The space can accommodate almost any setting, from a 500-person company retreat to a VIP board meeting. Ergonomic chairs, high-speed Wi-Fi, and audiovisual equipment and technicians will help support any company gathering.  

For more information, visit wellsworthhotel.com. 

About the Wellsworth Hotel  

Situated in the quaint town of Southbridge, Massachusetts, the Wellsworth Hotel gracefully blends historic touches with a modern feel and resort-style amenities, making an ideal setting for business and leisure travel. Formally home to American Optical Company, an eyeglass and optics manufacturer and innovator for 160 years, today, the property features more than 200 guest rooms and suites infused with modern comforts and traditional New England character. The historic landmark is designated to the National Register of Historic Places. Hotel amenities include a fitness center with indoor pool and basketball court, lounge, restaurant, and outdoor courtyard, as well as 24,000-square-feet of state-of-the-art meeting space. The hotel is accredited by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC). For more information, visit wellsworthhotel.com. 

Senator Fattman and Representative Smola present

$10K to Old Sturbridge Village to fund field trips in 2024

Funds to help schools afford the cost of a visit and encourage new visits

Sturbridge, M.A. – Almost everyone familiar with Old Sturbridge Village knows it because of a school field trip they or their children took at one point in the last 40 years. The Museum Education department at the Village has seen hundreds of thousands of students, teachers, and chaperones through its doors to date. Schools from surrounding areas and states plan visits to support their humanities curriculum and enjoy a day traveling back in time to learn about life in the 1830s.

On Friday, December 14th Senator Ryan C. Fattman (R) and Representative Todd M. Smola (R) presented a check for $15K to aid experiential learning opportunities for local school students. The funds were acquired through the 2024 Fiscal Year state budget. As a result of the 2021 redistricting, the town of Sturbridge was added to Fattman’s district (Worcester Hampden). Fattman’s goal is to understand the economic and educational assets in his district therefore creating this relationship with the Village. This is the first time Senator Fattman has acquired a budget earmark for Old Sturbridge Village.

Says Fattman, “There are a number of gems within my district and there is no doubt that Old Sturbridge Village is one of those. Allowing students to visit and experience OSV is critical to their understanding of the history of our area,” Senator Fattman continues, “This funding through the state budget will provide students in the greater area the ability to see history come alive."

The Museum Education department offers several different options for school visits from self-guided tours to custom, hands-on workshop experiences, to Town Hall meetings or debates.

Says Jim Donahue, "We are grateful to Representative Smola and Senator Fattman for their continued support for Old Sturbridge Village and more importantly, for the students of Worcester County. We are eager to welcome the students who will be funded by this generous support."

Second Chance Animal Services Achieves Unprecedented Milestone,

Aiding Over 49,000 Pets in 2023

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (January 16, 2024) – Second Chance Animal Services proudly announces its remarkable accomplishment in 2023, breaking all previous records by assisting 49,036 pets in living healthier lives. As the nonprofit organization commemorates its 25th anniversary this year, it expresses gratitude to its dedicated team of volunteers, supporters, and staff who have demonstrated exceptional resilience in a year marked by challenges, rising to address the growing needs of pets within the community. 

Second Chance Animal Services is unwavering in its commitment to preserving the bond between pets and their owners, striving to keep pets in their homes whenever possible. This commitment is realized through accessible and affordable full-service veterinary care, a pet food pantry program ensuring no pet goes hungry, and adoption services for homeless pets.

Sheryl Blancato, CEO, and founder of Second Chance, expresses her heartfelt appreciation for the organization's accomplishments and acknowledges the collective effort that made them possible. "In a year of widespread challenges, the demand for assistance has been significant. Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, we actively address the root causes of pet surrender and homelessness."

Blancato highlights the organization's focus on providing access to quality veterinary services for all pet owners, supporting those struggling to provide for their pets during difficult times, and fostering stronger bonds between families and their beloved animal companions. She notes that Second Chance veterinary hospitals provided assistance to more pets at subsidized rates than ever before, and the pet food pantry program saw record distributions to meet requests from local human food pantries.

Looking ahead, Blancato emphasizes Second Chance's commitment to expanding services to meet the rising needs. "We are actively hiring at all our hospital locations to extend our reach and assist more pets in need."

Additionally, Second Chance serves as an emergency partner for various agencies, responding to natural disasters and aiding pets rescued from unimaginable living conditions.

Blancato concludes, "Our mission to advocate for pets in need is ongoing. We must continue to fight for their well-being."

For those looking to contribute to Second Chance's vital work, donations can be made online at www.secondchanceanimals.org/help or by mail to Second Chance, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515.

PHOTO: 11-month-old Omari, who found himself at Second Chance through no fault of his own, is waiting to find his forever home.

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

Country Bank Appoints Mary McGovern as President and Chief Operating Officer

January 26, 2024 — The Board of Trustees of Country Bank announced today the appointment of Mary McGovern as President and Chief Operating Officer, effective April 1, 2024. In her new role, Mary will oversee the bank's operations and drive its strategic growth initiatives. Paul Scully who has been the President and Chief Executive Officer will remain as the CEO.

Mary brings over thirty years of experience in the banking industry, making her a valuable asset to Country Bank. She holds degrees from Emmanuel College and Babson College, and her extensive knowledge and expertise have been instrumental in the bank's success. Mary joined Country Bank in 2011 as its Chief Financial Officer and has since been an esteemed member of the Bank's Leadership Group.

Mary recently attended the American Bankers Association (ABA) Wharton Leadership Lab at the University of Pennsylvania, earning an ABA Wharton Leadership Certificate. This accomplishment further solidifies her commitment to excellence and continuous professional development.

"We are thrilled to announce Mary's appointment as the next President of Country Bank," stated James Phaneuf, Chair of the Board. "Mary's proven track record, dedication, and strategic vision make her the ideal candidate for this role. We are especially proud to break the proverbial glass ceiling by appointing the first female president in Country Bank's 174-year history." Mr. Phaneuf further stated “The Board is confident that Mary's leadership will drive the bank's continued success and growth. With her extensive experience, strategic mindset, and dedication to excellence, Mary is poised to lead the bank into a new era of innovation, and customer satisfaction while maintaining its position as one of the most highly capitalized financial institutions in the region.”

Mary, a resident of Wilbraham, is married to Stephen, and they have two children, Abigail and Aidan. Her deep roots in the community and passion for serving others makes her an exceptional fit for Country Bank's customer-centric approach.

About Country Bank

Country Bank is a full-service $1.8B financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts with 14 offices in Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, Brimfield, Belchertown, Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, Paxton, Charlton and Worcester. Country Bank is a member of FDIC, DIF and the SUM network. Country Bank can be reached at 800-322-8233 or online at countrybank.com.  

bankHometown Donates $27,000 to United Way

OXFORD, MASSACHUSETTS, January 26, 2024–bankHometown and its employees recently made donations of more than $27,000 to three United Way organizations in Central Massachusetts.

Employees pledged over $17,000 of their own funds in the bank’s United Way workplace campaign for 2024. Combined with the bank’s donation of $10,000, the campaign total of $27,419 will be divided among the United Way organizations of Central, North Central, and South Central Massachusetts as determined by the employees. The campaign lets employees donate and direct funds to advocate for causes most important to them. As a long-time contributor, the bank and its employees have donated more than $176,000 through the workplace campaign and donations to other United Way-related campaigns, events, and initiatives.

The United Way is a volunteer-driven organization that serves residents through its own programs and services as well as those of its partner agencies. The organization works to advance the common good by focusing on the building blocks for a good life – education, financial stability, health, and basic needs.

“bankHometown and our employees are proud to support the United Way in its mission to unlock the full potential of our friends, neighbors, and communities in need throughout Central Massachusetts,” said bankHometown President and CEO Robert J. Morton.

In the Photo: (L to R) Kory Eng, president and CEO of the United Way of North Central Massachusetts; Timothy Garvin, president and CEO of the United Way of Central Massachusetts; Tina Puzo, vice president and branch officer of the Auburn office of bankHometown and the bank’s workplace campaign coordinator; Robert J. Morton, bankHometown president and CEO; Mary O’Coin, executive director of the United Way of South Central Massachusetts.

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. For more information, visit bankhometown.com.

25th Annual Second Chance Dinner Auction to Benefit Homeless Shelter Pets: Tickets Now on Sale

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA (January 25, 2024) – Embrace the spirit of compassion as tickets for the 25th Annual Second Chance Dinner Auction are now available for purchase. This significant fundraising event marks the kickoff of Second Chance's yearlong 25th-anniversary celebration, promising an evening of philanthropy and joy to benefit homeless shelter pets in need of veterinary care. The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 23, at the La Salle Reception Center in Southbridge.

Animal lovers and advocates are invited to join us in making a difference for shelter pets by participating in this milestone event. The evening commences with a delightful cocktail hour at 4 pm, giving attendees the opportunity to peruse and bid on a myriad of silent auction items and try their luck with exciting raffle prizes. The main event unfolds with a delectable dinner at 6 pm, followed by the highlight of the night – the auction. Tickets are $55 per person with the option to reserve a table for 9 for $495.

Lindsay Doray, Chief Development Officer, emphasizes the importance of this year's dinner auction, stating, "Our annual dinner auction serves as a lifeline for our shelter pets, ensuring they receive the necessary veterinary care to embark on their new journeys. With the challenges we anticipate this year, your support is more crucial than ever."

The success of the event relies on the generosity of sponsors and item donors. Second Chance encourages businesses and individuals to consider lending their support by becoming a sponsor or contributing items to make this event truly impactful. The popular event features both a silent and live auction featuring hundreds of items ranging from gift certificates for local businesses and restaurants to gift baskets and everything in between.  

Doray highlights, "Our community's commitment to animals through the years has been truly heartwarming, and we welcome sponsors to join us in our mission to ensure that all pets can get the second chance they deserve. Your support will directly contribute to providing shelter pets with the medical care they need for a brighter future."

To enhance the auction experience, a selection of gift cards and small, easy-to-ship items will be available for advance online bidding March 14th to the 21st.

PHOTO: The Dinner Auction will help shelter pets like Bella get the care they need. Bella was suffering when she came to Second Chance in need of surgery for a severely broken leg. She stole the hearts of her foster family who plan to adopt her.

For those interested in sponsoring, donating items, or attending the event, complete information and tickets can be found at http://www.secondchanceanimals.org/dinner-auction.

Southbridge Garden Club Scholarships

SOUTHBRIDGE: The Southbridge Garden Club will again offer scholarships to high school seniors who will be attending accredited colleges and universities. The amount of the award will be $1,000 and we anticipate awarding two scholarships this year. Applications are due April 5, 2024.

Scholarships are available to students with a major focusing on horticulture, landscape design or architecture, conservation, forestry, environmental studies, land/soil management, botany, and allied subjects.

The applicant must be a resident of Massachusetts, have a minimum “B” average (3.0 on a 4.0 scale), and be of good character. Application forms are available at applicant’s high school guidance office.

The student is required to complete all parts of the application. The review committee will not consider incomplete applications and the applications will not be returned. The application must include:

1.    Student’s name, address, email address and telephone number

2.    Short paragraph on family background (parents and siblings).

3.    Short paragraph or a resume describing extra-curricular school and community activities.

4.    Names of colleges or schools to which student has applied and the acceptance status.

5.    Short paragraph on area of academic concentration and future goals.

6.    An essay (300-500 words) focusing on a person or event that influenced your career choice.

7.    Student’s most recent school transcript.

8.    Three letters of recommendation.

Please return completed application and all related documents to: Southbridge Garden Club Scholarship Committee, c/o Elaine Bouvier, 37 Tipton Rock Road, Southbridge, MA 01550.

The Southbridge Garden Club has been serving the Tri-Community area since 1953 and became a member of the Garden Club Federation in Massachusetts in 2003. The Club’s mission is to “share an interest in horticulture and to expand our knowledge of gardening for our mutual benefit and that of our local communities.”

Dexter Factory Outlet | 44 River Street | Southbridge, MA 01550 | 800-343-6042

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.

Business Planning Workshop with Quaboag Valley CDC

Our Business Planning Workshop is back!

Are you a new entrepreneur?

A young enthusiast eager to kickstart your business journey?

Or a current small business owner seeking direction to maximize your growth?

Join us for an empowering workshop designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the world of entrepreneurship.

Cost: $100. Registration: https://qvcdc.coursestorm.com/course/business-planning-workshop

What you’ll gain:

•   Build your Business Team
•   Develop a plan for success
•   Strategic Marketing Approaches to Expand Your Reach
•   Discover Financing Opportunities
•   An additional personalized session focused on learning how to project your income and expenses

Whether you're a current small business owner in need of guidance or a budding entrepreneur with a vision, this workshop is your gateway to success!

There will be 5 Workshop Sessions:

•   Tuesday, February 6th, 2024, 6pm-7:30pm
•   Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, 6pm-7:30pm
•   Tuesday, February 20th, 2024, 6pm-7:30pm
•   Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, 6pm-7:30pm

A 1:1 session will be scheduled upon completion of the workshop

All sessions will be held at: E2E 79 Main Street, Ware, MA 01082

Financial Assistance is available for income-qualified small businesses. For small businesses interested in financial assistance: Please contact Lindsay at 413-497-4409 or [email protected] BEFORE registering for this workshop

Moondance - A Tribute to Van Morisson

February 9, 2024 at 5:30PM

The Barn at Wight Farm

If Van Morrison isn’t coming to your town, Moondance is the next best thing! An incredible recreation of the Irish legend.

Rock and Roll doesn’t get any better than Van Morrison. Van the Man has done it all—from classics like Brown Eyed Girl and Domino to legendary tunes like Tupelo Honey and Into The Mystic. Moondance is the ultimate Van Morrison tribute concert. This incredible show captures the Van Morrison concert experience like no other. The show is packed with one Van classic after the next. Ticket prices range from $55-$60 and are available exclusively through Eventbrite.com.

All shows are accompanied by a complete buffet meal including salad and rolls. A full cash bar is always available and decadent desserts can also be purchased at an additional charge. There are always several protein options to choose from. Vegetarian and Gluten-Free options are available with advanced notice to our staff. Doors open at 5:30 pm, buffet begins at 6:00 pm, music starts at 7:30 pm.

Please visit thebarnatwightfarm.com or our Facebook page at facebook.com/thebarnatwightfarm to keep up to date on new shows or upcoming events. You can also call The Barn at 774.241.8450 for questions or for more information. 

Tickets can only be purchased here on eventbrite.com.

Evening of Illumination at Old Sturbridge Village

Select Saturdays | Jan. 27, Feb. 10, & Feb. 24

Times: Tours leave every 10 minutes from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. Timed tickets are required.

Cost: $35 Member Adults, $50 Non-Member Adults

How did New England families spend their evenings before the intrusion of texting, telephones, TVs, and computers? Visitors to Old Sturbridge Village will get a rare chance to find out as they tour the historic Village lit only by candles, oil lamps, lanterns, and firelight during Old Sturbridge Village’s Evening of Illumination. Guided tours around the Village Common allow guests to visit select homes and shops to see how early New Englanders spent their evenings in the days before electricity. Visitors will be treated to music and storytelling throughout the tour and will see Village artisans at work by candlelight. Each tour will begin with hot cocoa or coffee and will conclude in the Bullard Tavern, where guests can enjoy warm beverages and light fare.* This program is designed for adults.

*Light fare and beverage is included in your ticket. Get your tickets: www.osv.org/event/evening-of-illumination/

Pre-registration is required and will likely sell out.

MAPLE DAYS AT OSV BEGIN ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23. GET TICKETS HERE

OPEN ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 FOR VALENTINE'S DAY!

* SEE THE VALENTINE'S DAY SPECIALS MENU HERE *

Bring your significant other and have dinner with us at Salem Cross Inn for Valentine’s Day.

We will be serving our Dinner Menu from 4-8 pm on Wednesday, February 14 in addition to the specials.

Fireplace Feasts are almost completely SOLD OUT.

Get your tickets before they're all GONE!

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!

HOURS OF OPERATION

Open now through February 11:

Friday, & Saturday: 4pm - 8pm

Sunday: 12pm - 5pm

Open Valentine's Day - Wednesday, Feb. 14, 4 - 8pm

After Valentine's Day (starting 2/15) we will be open:

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

French Canadian Weekend

Feb 17-18, Noon-8:00 pm

Rapscallion Pub, 3 Arnold Road, Sturbridge

Join Rapscallion for a French Canadian weekend celebration! We will have French Canadian food specials (meat pie, anyone?), live music, Caribou Juice, hot mulled wine, and tons of French Canadian heritage. Bring your French Canadian gear, paint your face Quebec blue (ok, this isn’t a requirement), and celebrate our heritage in style. Canada-eh!

LIVE MUSIC:

Saturday 4-8pm: Big Jon Short

Sunday 2-6pm: Livestock

SEE MORE: visitrapscallion.com/event/french-canadian-weekend/

The braising of meat and slow cooking with wine is most predominant in the Piedmont region of Italy. Often, the most common forms of braised meat are taken from a leg of veal or beef.

Over the years, Italian braised short ribs have evolved on this side of the world. Short ribs of beef are more readily found here rendering this popular dish and Italian-American favorite. In Italy and in the US, braising in Barolo wine is most common, but this dish can be made with any hearty red wine and recipes for this wonderful meal are abundant.

Join Chef Rico to see how he interprets the preparation of Italian braised short ribs and learn just how easy this amazing indulgence is to prepare at home. As usual, abundant appetizers and side dishes will accompany this popular Italian comfort food dinner.

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 early as Cooking with Rico events often sell-out quickly. 508-347-2321.

Gateway Players Theatre: Death by Chocolate

Gateway Players Theatre of Southbridge presents “Death by Chocolate” by Paul Freed. Performances will be held on February 23 and 24 and March 1 and 2 at 7:30pm, and on March 3 at 2pm. 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 Mikey Dearn, and produced by Eric Hart. The February 24th performance will be a Dessert Theatre. Tickets are $25 and will include a variety of desserts and beverages served prior to the performance and during intermission. Tickets for the other performances 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://gateway-players.ticketleap.com/deathbychocolate Presented by permission through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals. 

The cast includes: LADY RIVERDALE- Jenifer Stockdale JOHN STONE- Patrick Bracken DYSLEXIA- Bridgette Bachand ALFRED MELLOX- Stephen Jean RALPH DEADWOOD- Greg Glanville MARGARET DANIELS- Tey Gallipeau DICK SIMMERING- Peter Amaral SWEET PEA MEADOWBROOK- Deb Hollett NURSE ANNE- Cassidy Shaw EDITH CHILES- Deb Ostiguy HENRY MEADOWBROOK/ED PARLOR- Matthew Sedlier RESORT HOST/PHONE VOICES- Dawn Sedlier 

Synopsis: Members of the newly renovated Meadowbrook Health Resort are dropping like flies, including famed chef Edith Chiles! On the eve of the grand re-opening, this is not the best advertisement. It’s up to John Stone, the manager, to find the cause and the murderer. Delightfully sarcastic and cynical, Stone finds himself teaming up with Ed Parlor, mystery writer and amateur sleuth, in a wacky race against time. The clues point to a sinister box of chocolates, and the suspects include all the outlandish characters working for the resort. Could it be Lady Riverdale, owner of the resort and a woman with dark secrets? Or Ralph Deadwood, gym instructor and all-around cad? Dick Simmering, the aerobics instructor? Anne, the panic-stricken nurse? Or could it be “Sweet Pea” Meadowbrook, overweight and grieving daughter of the recently deceased founder of the resort? Death by Chocolate combines all the elements of classic murder mysteries with a scathing satire of today’s health crazes.

Tutti Quanti Wine Tasting

Tuesday, February 27th from 6:30pm-8:00pm

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). 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.

See all upcoming tastings and register here: www.tuttiquantifoods.com/wine-tastings-events/

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.

Tutti Quanti, 538 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01518, 774.241.0476

Go Wild Game Dinner

Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30pm

The Barn at Wight Farm in Sturbridge, Mass. is pleased to present a six-course wild game dining experience created by Chefs Tony Pitts and Devin Senior. As an avid sportsman, Chef Tony Pitts is excited to team up with accomplished chef, Devin Senior to bring their culinary expertise together for this very special evening.

The cost for the wild game dinner is $75 per person and includes all game courses, dessert, and coffee. Tax and gratuity are not included. This special event is limited and likely to sell out quickly, so make your reservation today by calling The Barn at 774-241-8450.

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!