CMS Chamber logo  

 

In This Issue
Fun at Five at Rovezzi's
Next CBA Meeting
Info Center Position Available
Members on the Move
Free Saturday Tastings
Members Make "Best of" List
TLGV's Explore Guide Deadline is Today
NBSB Hires Jim Algie
Family Center of Worcester Receives Donation from SSB
Salem Cross Inn
WinterFest and More at OSV
TLGV's Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure
Let Your Green Lights Shine!
Annual Kid's Expo
Publick House Community Feast
YMCA Benefit Dinner
Cooking with Rico: Stocks, Soups, & Sauces
"Narnia the Musical"
6th Annual Chowder Fest
First Aid Training
New England Agriculture Marketing Conference & Trade Show
Career Information Session
Free Seminar: Get Found Online in 2015
Wild Game & Beer Dinner
Ice Racing Series
Poultry Seminar
Table 3 Chefs Cooking Class
Fishing Tackle Rep Day at Klem's
24/7 Training
Save these Dates!
NBSB Business Center
Chamber of Commerce 
Board of Directors
 _________

Executive Committee
 
 
     
Michael Checkosky
Chairman

 

Brian Treitman

First Vice Chair 

B.T.'s Smokehouse

 

Cindy Howard

Second Vice Chair

Center of Hope

 

Melissa White
Immediate Past Chair 

Venture Community Services


John Lafleche
Bay Path Voc. Tech. High School
Treasurer 
__________ 

Board Members

Cheryl Barber
Country Bank

Jessica Bettencourt
Klem's

Jocelyn Callis

OFS

 

Chris Canniff

Harrington HealthCare System 


Bob Datz 
datzmedia 

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union

Jordan Hoy

Savers Bank 


Jonathan Krach

The Vienna 

 

Rita Schiano 

Live a Flourishing Life

 
Jean Sullivan
Sullivan & Company Real Estate

Barbara Vacarr
Encore.org 

Michael Wales
Michael L. Wales Painting Co.

Bruce Watkins 

Jim Donahue
Honorary Board Member
Old Sturbridge Village

George I. Hammond

Attorney at Law 

Legal Counsel

 __________

Chamber Staff

Alexandra McNitt
 Executive Director

Paulette Hughes
Finance & Administration

Jack Starkey
Communications Specialist 

Chamber Links

CMS Chamber logo
Stur Townships - Everything but Ordinary  

    

 
Welcome to February's Crossroads Events!
This issue covers the latest news from our Members, and amazing local events from wonderful WinterFest at Old Sturbridge Village right through to Maple Days in March! Believe it or not, spring is right around the corner!    

Would you like us to promote your events in Crossroads? Post your happenings to the Chamber's
Events page and we'll share them with our nearly 800 subscribers.

Follow us on Facebook, Google+, and Pinterest for more from the Chamber and our Members!     

NETWORK WITH YOUR CHAMBER 
FUN at FIVE
Fun at Five logo
Monday, March 16
5:00 to 7:00pm 
at
Rovezzi's Ristorante  
Rovezzis
2 School Street, Sturbridge
508-347-0100  www.rovezzis.com 
 
Mingle and network with a friendly crowd at Rovezzi's, enjoy a cocktail, some amazing appetizers, chances to win great prizes and more fun and surprises!

We hope you will join us!

Cost: $10 for pre-registered Members,
$15 at the door, $20 for non-Members.

Call 508-347-2761 or email [email protected] to register.
 
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR! 
Venture CS  
1 Picker Road, Sturbridge
508-347-8181
www.venturecs.org 
cba

 Next CBA Meeting 

WHAT: Community Business Associates Meeting
WHERE: Oliver Wight Tavern, Old Sturbridge Village
WHEN: TODAY, 7:15 a.m., February 13, 2015

 

MEMBER PRESENTERS

Bob Datz of datzmedia
Tom Marino of Rousseau & Marino, PC
 

Community Business Associates welcomes business and professional visitors to attend as guests and begin to make fruitful business contacts along with hearing presenters and speakers. The group meets on the second and fourth Friday each month. 

 

Guests may attend at no charge. The meeting, in the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village, runs from 7:15 to 8:30 a.m.

 

CBA is a networking/referrals program of the Chamber of Central Mass South.

 

Part-time Position Available

Info Center

 

Are you a people person? Do you enjoy knowing what's going on in the area and sharing it with others? Do you know how to use email and find things on the internet? If so, then you've got what we need!

 

The Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce is looking for a part-time employee to work at the local Tourist Information Center at 380 Main Street in Sturbridge, across the street from the entrance to Old Sturbridge Village.  

 

Responsibilities include welcoming visitors, helping them make the most of their visit to the area, answering phones and email, keeping abreast of what goes on in the region, stocking and organizing the informational flyers and brochures, and other related tasks as assigned.  

 

The hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. alternating Fridays, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. either Saturday or Sunday. The right candidate is someone with an engaging personality who works well with others and independently, and is flexible enough in scheduling that they can cover the occasional vacation or holiday to accommodate other personnel. We are always closed New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

 

Interested parties should call the Chamber's Executive Director, Alix McNitt, at 508-347-2761 for more information and to apply.

 

We've Moved
Members on the Move!  
Please... make a note of it.

 

Sturbridge Coffee House will be re-opening in mid-February at their new location: 408 Main Street, Sturbridge (across from B.T.'s Smokehouse). Some great changes are coming---quicker service, much better parking, longer hours, food available until closing, and Pia is also working on bringing Children's Music Hour back, open mic night and maybe a little speed dating! 

Follow on Facebook for the latest from Pia and Sturbridge Coffee House.  

 

Les Gardner announces that as of February 1, 2015 he is in a new location after sharing three great years with the Sturbridge Coffee House. Les Gardner Photography is now located at 212 Main Street (Route 131) in Sturbridge sharing the old ZZZ Tech building with new owner Dennis McCurdy and McCurdy Insurance Group who also just recently moved in. Les is excited to be doing business in his third Sturbridge location and in April, he will be celebrating 23 years! Reach Les Gardner Photography at (508) 347-7177.   

 

Winebuyers Outlet

Free Saturday Tastings!

 

Please join The Winebuyer's Outlet / Sturbridge Cheese & Chocolate at their Free Tastings of Artisan Cheeses, luscious Chocolates & Fine Wines every Saturday from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. This is a great way to taste before you buy and discover new favorites!

 

179 Main Street, Sturbridge    

508-347-1500 www.winebuyersoutlet.com

Chamber Members Make "The Best of Greater Sturbridge"
in Sturbridge Times Readers' Choice Awards for 2015
graphic-award-header.gif

Congratulations to all of this year's winners in the Sturbridge Times Readers' Choice Awards!

The Chamber of Central Mass South is thrilled to see so many of our Members make the list. Visit these fine establishments and experience the very best of Greater Sturbridge!

 

In Restaurants, Food, Fun 

General Excellence Restaurant - Publick House

Italian Restaurant - Avellino

New Restaurant - Jimmy D's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop

Budget Restaurant - Annie's Country Kitchen

Gourmet Quality Food - Salem Cross Inn

Seafood Restaurant - Sturbridge Seafood

Bar Menu - Teddy G's Pub & Grille

Late Night Dining - Teddy G's Pub & Grille

Cocktail - Rovezzi's

Bakery - Publick House

Wine & Cheese - The Winebuyer's Outlet

Small Quick Market - Micknuck's

Appetizers/Tapas - Cedar Street Grille

Cup of Coffee - Sturbridge Coffee House

Deli - Micknuck's

Dessert - Publick House

Farmers' Market - Hitchcock Academy

Ice Cream - Jimmy D's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop

Family Entertainment - Cinemagic

 

In Shopping

Clothing/Children - New 2 You Consignment

Clothing/Consignment - New 2 You Consignment

Clothing/Work - Klem's

Antiques/Collectibles - Sturbridge Antique Shops

Gifts - Sadie Green's

Jewelry - Garieri Jewelers

Artisan Jewelry - Sadie Green's

Primitives - The Handmaiden

Sporting Goods - Klem's

Lawn & Garden - Klem's

Greenhouse - Velvet Greene Garden Center

 

In Services 

Manicure/Pedicure - The Hair Gallery Salon & Spa

Financial Advisor - Jeff Burdick (Edward Jones)

Insurance Agency - McGrath Insurance Group

Gym - Everybody's Fitness Center

Hair Salon/Barber - The Hair Gallery Salon & Spa

Bank/Credit Union - Savers Bank

Travel Service - Sturbridge Travel

Accountant - Tom Dubrey (Dubrey, Culliton, Fanning)

Fine Cabinetry - Fine Lines Custom Cabinetry & Furniture

Fix-It Person - Michael Beaudry 

 

TLGV's Deadline for Inclusion in the Explore Guide is Today!

TLGV's Explore Guide The Last Green Valley reminds all business members/owners/organizations that the deadline to be included in the new Explore! guide is today - Friday, February 13th. TLGV is bound to this deadline in order to ensure the design and print processes are done in a timely fashion. Their ETA for receipt of and to begin distribution of these new and exciting guides is late April. Already people are asking for them, so that is a great sign!

TLGV has hired 3 "Information Ambassadors" to make sure the 130+ delivery locations are always filled with Explore! Plus, they have new volunteer Rangers that will be out at fairs and festivals during the warmer months to come.

Although the guide is certainly going to feature more outdoor activities than ever, The Last Green Valley still urges you to include your business/organization listing, too. More folks will discover you! You each have your own adventure to share in your shops, restaurants, civic groups, service businesses... you get the picture!

Basic listings are just $100 annually ($50 for nonprofits). Enhanced listings and ads are also available for additional fees. Call 860-774-3300 for more information.

Here is a link to the forms if you don't have the ones that were mailed out handy.


The Last Green Valley absolutely looks forward to working together with you in in order to have folks enjoy it all! 

TLGV logo
North Brookfield Savings Bank Hires Jim Algie as
Senior Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer

NBSB's Jim Algie North Brookfield Savings Bank is pleased to announce the hiring of Jim Algie as Senior Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer.

 

Algie was most recently First Senior Vice President at Country Bank, where he managed the commercial banking division and commercial credit area. He has nearly 40 years commercial banking experience.

 

In addition to Country Bank, Algie was an officer and instructor in HSBC's formal credit training program in New York City. He also lent in the garment district in New York City. Before moving to Country Bank he was a commercial lending team leader in Rhode Island for the former Shawmut Bank. He holds both a bachelor's and master's degree from Clarkson University.

 

"I am delighted to join a community bank that is so deeply invested in the communities it serves," said Algie. "North Brookfield Savings Bank has the unique ability to meet the needs of area businesses through customized commercial loans and fast, local approval. I look forward to helping businesses grow and meet their goals."

 

Algie, of Wilbraham, MA, is a founding member and past president of the Quaboag Valley Business Assistance Corporation and current treasurer of the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation.

 

Algie joins NBSB as the Bank continues to expand its commercial lending operations throughout Central and Western Massachusetts at its Business Centers.

 

"We are extremely pleased to welcome Jim Algie aboard and to offer his experience and expertise to new and existing business customers. He is a valuable addition to our growing commercial lending team," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President & CEO Donna Boulanger.

 

"Our commitment to the local business community is strengthened with the addition of Jim to our lending team. His knowledge of the market and his business acumen will help us better serve our commercial customers," added NBSB Senior Vice President and Senior Commercial Loan Officer Anthony Piermarini.  

 

To speak with Jim Algie about commercial loan opportunities, call 413-531-0531 or [email protected]. For commercial loan and deposit information, contact the Business Center at 508-867-1302 or [email protected].

 

NBSB logo

Family Health Center of Worcester

Receives Donation from Southbridge Savings Bank

SSB Domates to Family Health Center

Pictured are from left: Southbridge Savings Bank President & CEO Todd Tallman, Dr. Laura Petras, Site Director & Physician, Family Health Center, Noreen Johnson-Smith, M.P.H. VP of Development & Advancement, Family Health Center, Ron Cooper, VP & Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee

 

Southbridge Savings Bank's Charitable Donations Committee was proud to start the new year with a donation of $5000 to The Family Health Center of Worcester (FHCW). Health care is an important issue in this country and with organizations like this, everyone can get the care they need, even if they cannot afford to pay for it.

 

Family Health Center of Worcester improves the health and well-being of underserved, low-income and culturally diverse residents by providing accessible, high-quality, comprehensive primary care, dental care and social services to individuals and families in the Greater Worcester County area, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. In March, FHCW expanded their coverage and opened a new family medicine practice on Orchard Street in Southbridge to provide access to primary care for underserved individuals and families.  A major goal of FHCW is to add comprehensive dental services at the Southbridge satellite health center as well.

 

Ron Cooper, SSB VP-Commercial Lending and Chairman of the Charitable Donations Committee stated, "There is nothing more important than taking care of one's health and this great organization makes it available to everyone regardless of their economic situation. We are happy to assist them provide this important service to the communities we serve."

 

If you need assistance or would like to help this great cause, visit them at www.fhcw.org/en/Home or call 508-860-7700.

 

For more information about Southbridge Savings Bank, call 800-939-9103 or visit them on the web at www.southbridgesavingsbank.com.

 

Salem Cross Inn header
UPCOMING EVENTS
  fireplace feast

Fireplace Feasts:  

February 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27 & 28

March 1, 7, 8, 14 & 15 

Lend a hand as dinner is prepared for you in colonial style or just relax by the fire with a hot glass of mulled cider or wine. Stir the chowder as it bubbles in our cast iron cauldron.  See your prime rib roasted "to a turn" on the only known authentic Roasting Jack still operating in America, rotating slowly over a crackling fire of wild cherry logs.  Beware of 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. After your ride, shake off the chill with warm mulled wine or cider at our dining event. Browse our extensive collection of Colonial and Federal period American antiques.  

The event includes:

Delicious Early American Fare for your consumption... you can even enjoy seconds!
Pie making, mulling and chowder demonstrations
Horsedrawn wagon or sleigh ride, weather permitting
Casual dress is a must for this event

Visit www.salemcrossinn.com for tickets and more information.

 

SALEM CROSS INN          WEST BROOKFIELD          508-867-2345 

WinterFest and more at Old Sturbridge Village
Winter Savings at OSV 
Visit Old Sturbridge Village in February, and adults, parents and grandparents
get in for $12 with a completed Winter Wonderful Savings Coupon.
That's 50% off their regular $24 adult admission. Visit the link for your coupon! 

 

Old Sturbridge Village is helping local visitors experience the charm of a New England winter by offering adults half-price admission in January and February to one of the nation's largest and most premier living history museums. Throughout January and February 2015 adults, parents and grandparents can visit the museum for $12 - 50 percent off the museum's regular $24 adult admission - by presenting a Winter Wonderful Savings coupon.  To redeem the winter offer, each adult guest is required to download, print and bring their completed Winter Wonderful Savings coupon to the OSV Visitor Center. Winter Wonderful Savings coupons can be downloaded at www.osv.org and redeemed any day Old Sturbridge Village is open now through Feb. 28, 2015.

February School Vacation Week is filled with fun and engaging activities for kids - and their parents! Be sure to read more about the special events planned for Washington's Birthday weekend celebration. Visitors can enjoy candle-making demonstrations, sleigh rides, and sledding on 1830s-style reproduction sleds (all snow-related activities are weather permitting).
 
OSV oxen in snow
After the Blizzard of 2015, there is no better place in New England to take in the
spectacle of the snow than at Old Sturbridge Village.  
 
    
February 14-22: WinterFest at Old Sturbridge Village

WinterFest kicks off on Saturday, February 14 with Be Mine:  Chocolate and Valentines.  See demonstrations of processing chocolate by hand using cacao beans in the manner of ancient Mexico, where chocolate originates.  Create Valentines, and "meet" the local woman responsible for the popularity of sending valentines in the United States.

 

The festivity continues on with Washington's Birthday and Presidents' Day.  Skirts will swirl as the Old Sturbridge Village dancers present a Washington Birthday Ball.  Learn various dances of the time, including contra dances and cotillions, which were forerunners of today's line dancing and square dancing.  Take part in traditional toasts to George Washington and other famous American patriots.  President Coolidge will be on hand to join in the celebration, and if your name is George or Martha, you receive free admission to the Village on Monday, February 16!

Throughout the week, enjoy hands-on crafts and special winter performances.  Snow permitting, try out our sleds and enjoy a sleigh ride!  You will also have the opportunity to watch our craftsmen at work, see hearthside cooking, and visit dozens of historic buildings.

 

On Saturday, February 21, come and see more than 20 horse-drawn sleighs at Old Sturbridge Village's Antique Sleigh Rally.  The sleigh rally competition will feature vintage sleighs pulled by a variety of horse breeds including Haflinger, Gypsy, Morgan, Arabian, Clydesdale, Percheron, and miniature horses. Participants will compete for prizes in a dozen different divisions including "Sleigh Dog" and "Currier & Ives."

 

March Means Maple! Maple Days at Old Sturbridge Village

Weekends of March 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29

For many at Old Sturbridge Village, the first whiff of spring isn't the aroma of spring flowers - it's the smell of wood smoke and maple syrup, a sure sign that the sap is rising and spring is on the way.  Join us for four weekends of our Maple Days event throughout March, where you can see maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century rural New England in OSV's working sugar camp.

 

See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to "sugaring off," and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England.

 

Learn about how maple sugaring has changed over the years through our Maple Sugaring Timeline, an examination of different tapping techniques. See demonstrations of the traditional Native American methods, early 19th-century New England, 20th century metal buckets, and contemporary tubing.

 

Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products by the hearth at the Village's Freeman Farm. See a slide show.

   

Celtic Celebration: March 14-15 

St. Patrick's Day events will be in full swing at Old Sturbridge Village March 14-15. The daytime "Celtic Celebration" will feature Irish music, food, step dancing, and stories. Irish musicians will explain the difference between jigs and reels and tell of the Irish experience through song. Museum exhibits and historians will explain what caused the wave of Irish immigration in the 19th century and talk about what life was like for Irish families after they arrived in America.  

Extend your celebration into the evening on Saturday, March 14, 2015, by purchasing tickets to our Full Gael Celtic Concert, which will consist of an evening of Irish music and Irish themed food, starting at 6:00PM in the Stephen Brewer Theater.  

 

See more at www.osv.org 


Ranger Darcy's Acorn Adventure
Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventures
How Much Wood Can a Woodchuck Chuck - or Perhaps a Beaver
February 15, 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Buffumville Lake Boat Ramp, 229 B Oxford Road, Charlton

The Last Green Valley invites your family and all of your little acorns to join us each month!

 

TLGV's Ranger Marcy and U.S. Army Corps Engineer Park Ranger Jamie Kordack will team up to show you around this great property.

 

Since Groundhog Day is February 2nd, we will learn some fun facts about the groundhog (or woodchuck) as well as the busy beavers that live here! Who knows what we will see. Keep your eyes wide open (look for the beaver huts) and ears wide open (you might hear the beavers smacking their tails on the water if it is not frozen)!

 

This will be a rather flat and easy walk around the lake, totaling 3 miles. We will take a slow pace so all the "Acorns" (children) have time to discover whatever it is they may find along the way. 

Well behaved dogs on leashes welcome, but please be prepared to clean up after your dog.
Bring your camera, leave with memories and great photos. Leave only behind our laughter echoing and footprints.

 

Map and directions to Buffumville Lake Boat Ramp, 229 B Oxford Road, Charlton, MA:

Google maps 

 

Dress warmly, and bring a walking stick with you for balance if you would like.

Extreme weather (snow, ice, rain) will cancel this event.

Cancellation will be noted on TLGV's facebook.


TLGV logo

Let Your Green Lights Shine!


Get your green lights glowing in support of The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor! Everyone is invited to join the fun in this slightly off-kilter midwinter celebration. Participation is simple - just display a green light from February 15 - March 17. Change a porch light to green, hang an LED strand of green lights around the window, or display an electric candle with a green bulb.    

 

The Green Lights theme also offers local businesses an opportunity to reach a greater audience mid- winter. Having a clearance sale? Make it a Green Lights Sale! Want to increase lunch traffic? Offer a Green Plate Special! Want to attract new customers? Offer a discount on everything green in your store! Planning community events? Try a Green Lights snowman contest!  

 

Be sure to let The Last Green Valley know what you're doing, and we'll publicize your activity or promotion through The Last Green Valley website, events calendar, and Facebook page. We will run a contest on our Facebook page for the best residential and business displays, promotions, and activities. Email [email protected] with your Green Lights activity, and don't forget to include photos for us to post!

 

Green bulbs (25 watt) are available for purchase at TLGV's office for $3.00 or you may purchase 60 - bulb strands of LED lights for $12.00. Please call 860-774-3300 for details.  

 

The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. The Last Green Valley, Inc. works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. We help you to care for it, enjoy it and pass it on! 

 

TLGV logo
Kid's Expo at Sturbridge Host Hotel
Sturbridge Host
February 16, 2015

Time:  11:00am - 4:00pm
Sturbridge Host Hotel, 366 Main Street, Sturbridge

This annual event has grown in popularity every year.  Families within a 50 mile radius look forward to bringing the children and spending their winter vacation with the Sturbridge Host.  

The Host will welcome at least 1,000 attendees to walk through their doors during Kid's Week!  


Fun includes:

Bounce Houses
Kid Friendly Vendors and Trade Show
Face Painting
Ronald McDonald
and More!

Call 508-347-7393 for more info.

 

See the Kids Week Schedule of Events here

 

Publick House Cooks for Community Organizations

Help Publick House give back to the community by joining them for monthly feasts to raise money for local organizations. Each sponsored organization will receive $4.00 from every dinner served!

 

February 16, 2015 

Tri-Community YMCA
Visiting Nurses of Southern Worcester
ITALIAN FEAST

CASH DONATION
Adults $13 / Children $5 (4-12 yrs.)

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET!
Held in Paige Hall or under the Tent!

Two Seating Times
SEATING ONE: 4:30pm-6:15pm
SEATING TWO: 6:30pm-7:30pm

Casual Dining * Open Seating * No Reservations

All Feasts include...
Tossed Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Dinner Rolls, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks & Iced Water


SEE the full menus and the complete 2015 schedule:

www.publickhouse.com/sites/default/files/Publick_House_Fundraising_Dinners_2015_0.pdf  

 

YMCA Benefit Dinner at Publick House

February 16 

YMCA

The Tri-Community YMCA is hosting an All-You-Can-Eat Fundraising Dinner at The Publick House on February 16.  The buffet menu will consist of an Italian Feast of ziti with tomato sauce, meatballs, pasta primavera, salad, garlic bread and non-alcoholic beverages. 

There will be two seatings - 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm - for a ticket price of $13 per adult and $5 children (4-12 years).  Tickets can be purchased at the YMCA or at the door that evening.  The proceeds will support the LiveSTRONG at the YMCA program to help cancer survivors begin their journey toward recovery.

 

Tri-Community YMCA           43 Everett Street           Southbridge           508-765-5466
Cooking with Rico: Stocks, Soups, and Sauces
February 19, 6:30pm
Avellino  
Stocks are the backbone of western cuisine from which much of the kitchen depends. The preparation of the stocks, soups, and especially the sauces, are often reserved for the most experienced chefs. A sauce prepared with care can take a meal to the next level, creating a standard by which a diner will judge all others. The same importance is given to the soup course. The soup is served at or near the beginning of the meal, setting a tone for the quality of the course or courses to come. Chef Rico will take the mystery out of the preparation of these essential components to great cuisine and show you how to take your home-cooking to the next level.

This event is $55 per person with wine pairings, or $42 without.* Tax and gratuity are not included. Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321.

Gateway Players Theatre 
"Narnia the Musical"
February 20-22 
Narnia
   
Looking for a fun activity for February school vacation week?? Gateway Players Theatre, Inc. is presenting "Narnia the Musical" by Jules Tasca, based on the C.S. Lewis classic "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe". This production will be held Feb 20- 22 at 25 Cole Ave, Southbridge, site of the former Southbridge High School. Show times are 7:30 on Friday, 2pm and 7:30pm on Saturday and 2pm on Sunday. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for over 60 and under 18. For tickets or information, call Gateway Players at 508-764-4531.

This production is funded in part by a grant from the Southbridge Cultural Council, a local agency, funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. Presented by permission through special arrangement with Dramatic Publishing.

"Narnia" is being directed by Gina Metras, assisted by Gail Dupuis. Suzanne Adams is the producer, with Kerrianne Pelletier as music director. Allen Adams is stage manager and set builder. Assisting Allen is Sam Cloutier, as junior stage manager. Over 30 kids, ages 8-18 will be in the cast of "Narnia", singing and dancing across the (former) high school stage.

This musical adaptation is fun for the whole family, featuring unforgettable songs and popular characters. The story begins with the land of Narnia frozen in a perpetual winter of darkness and despair, seemingly all under the dominion of the White Witch, Queen Jadis, including the intelligent talking animals once ruled by the great and majestic lion Aslan, King of Narnia.

Though Aslan is often absent from the land (so that his very existence is doubted by some), he returns when the need for him is greatest, bringing with him an end to the long winter, and making an ultimate sacrifice of love, culminating in a battle between good and evil.
Entering at a moment of high adventure in the story are four children, transported from our world through a magical wardrobe.

This production kicks off Gateway Players' 40th season. For more information go to www.gatewayplayers.org.
 
Tri-Community Exchange Club
6th Annual Chowder Fest
February 22, Noon to 3pm at Sturbridge Host Hotel
The Tri-Community Exchange Club is having its 6th Annual Chowder Fest fundraiser. 
It is being held on February 22, 2015 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel from 12-3. 
The tickets are a $10.00 charitable donation per person.  There will be raffle and door prizes.  You can purchase tickets at Penny's Appliance 171 Charlton Road, Sturbridge or at Southbridge Savings Bank Sturbridge and Charlton locations.  Hope to see you there!

American Red Cross First Aid Training at the Y 

February 24, 6:00-7:00pm  

YMCA

American Red Cross First Aid Training course will teach you how to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies, such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illness, head, neck and back injuries, as well as heat and cold emergencies.  The cost is $45 per person. Registration required at Front Desk.

 

Tri-Community YMCA           43 Everett Street           Southbridge           508-765-5466

New England Agricultural Marketing Conference & Trade Show

February 25 and 26 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel 

 

Harvest NE The Harvest New England Agricultural Marketing Conference & Trade Show is once again coming to the Sturbridge Host Hotel in February 2015. This is the 5th biennial New England conference and it draws hundreds of farmers and farm industry members to idea-laden workshops and to hear motivational speakers. Mark your calendars now for February 25 & 26 2015 and join your fellow regional agriculturists for a jam-packed program!

 

The theme of the 2015 conference is Direct Marketing to Diversified Wholesale, Finding What Works. Attendees will experience nearly 30 workshops on topics such as retail and wholesale marketing, agri-tourism, business planning and more. An all day workshop for New England Farmers' Market Managers will be held on Wednesday, February 25th. Don't forget the trade show with a large variety of agricultural suppliers and vendors!

 

New for 2015 will be the concurrent meeting of the Massachusetts Association of Agricultural Commissions, sponsoring a series of workshops targeted for Agricultural Commission members in the region. Also new is the SNAP Resource Center-one stop shopping where farmers and market managers can complete their USDA application to accept SNAP benefits and obtain low cost wireless equipment to process SNAP payments.

 

 

Harvest New England (HNE) is a cooperative marketing program created by New England's state departments of agriculture in 1992. It has sponsored this regional conference since 2007.

 

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Career Information Session


Driven by taking charge of my career and my income.

THE FINANCIAL ADVISOR OPPORTUNITY

 

If you're ready to take control of your career and rise to new challenges in exchange for greater independence and more personal satisfaction, then you're ready to explore a career as an Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

 

As an Edward Jones Financial Advisor, you will form meaningful, long-term relationships with clients as you help them achieve their financial goals. With our award-winning financial and business development training and the ability to build your business, you will truly have unlimited earnings potential. You'll also receive your own firm provided-office, dedicated branch administrator and the ongoing support you need to build a successful career - all directly connected to the energy and effort you apply.

 

Want to learn more?

Attend our Financial Advisory Career Information Session

Date: Wed, February 25, 2015

Time: 6:00-8:00pm

Location: The Society Room of Hartford

RSVP: [email protected]

For more information, visit www.careers.edwardjones.com

 

For the 15th year, Edward Jones was named one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For 2014" by FORTUNE magazine in its annual listing, ranking No. 4 overall. These 15 FORTUNE� rankings include top 10 finishes for 11 years, top 5 rankings for six years and consecutive No. 1 rankings in 2002 and 2003.

Your are invited to join Worcester Magazine for a FREE SEMINAR.

Getting found online on 2015. Reaching today's consumer. 

February 26 at Webster First Federal Credit Union

271 Greenwood Street, Worcester

 sm icons

Statistics show that 70% of consumers go online first before going to a local business. To stay competitive, business owners like you have to be found online in all the right places. Do you know how today's consumer finds you? Join us and receive your own diagnostic digital assessment.

 

FREE Quarter Page Ad (over $400 value*)

FREE Digital Audit with customized report

Plus one lucky attendee gets an iPad Mini 3!

 

Complimentary Refreshments will be served.

Don't miss your chance! Space is limited!

 

To register: Call 508-749-3166 x-450

Email: [email protected] 

Online: worcestermagazine.com/seminar215 

 

TWO SESSIONS: 9:00AM & 1:30pm

 

*Available for new and existing clients outside of any existing commitment.

GO WILD! Wild Game and Beer Dinner 
Thursday, February 26, 2015, 6:30pm
The Duck
The Duck is pleased to present a five-course wild game dining experience created by Head Chef, Tony Pitts. As an avid sportsman and consummate chef, Chef Tony is excited to bring these two worlds together in this very special evening. Each savory course will be accompanied by a microbrew specifically chosen by Chef Tony and his culinary team for an ideal pairing. The cost for the wild game and beer dinner is $62 per person and includes all game courses, beer pairings, 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 Duck at 508-347-2321. 

Ice racing at Hamiilton Rod & Gun

Ice Racing at Hamilton Rod & Gun Club!

 

Come join the excitement of Ice Racing at Hamilton Rod & Gun Club, Sundays from now until March. Races begin at 10AM and go throughout the afternoon. Hundreds of racers and spectators enjoy this sport each week. Details can be found on Facebook: Sturbridge Ice Races or by contacting Oaky O'Connor (413) 267-4713.

 

The Ice Race Series is hosted by the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club at 24 Hamilton Road in Sturbridge. The club offers a mix of shooting and fishing programs.  

 

Visit www.hamiltonrg.org to learn more.

 

Poultry Seminar at Klem's  

March 7, 11am-Noon

 

 Chick Days are coming!

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN RAISING CHICKENS?

Klem's will be hosting a Poultry Seminar, Raising Backyard Poultry 101:  

Learn how to raise chickens in your backyard for meat, eggs and for fun.

 

Questions & Answers! In-Store Specials!

Contact Holly today for more information, 508-885-2708 or [email protected]

 

Klem's                   117 West Main Street               Spencer, MA
Table 3 Chefs Cooking Class

Wednesday, March 11  

Spanish Cuisine: Paella

The Collection at Wight Farm, 420 Main Street, Fiskdale

 

 

Table 3 Chefs Cooking Classes are for those looking for a more in-depth, "roll-up-your-sleeves" hands-on experience with the focus on the behind-the-scenes techniques that professional chefs use in their daily routines. Each cooking class features appetizers to warm up the palate, cooking instruction, hands-on cooking with Rico, and a class meal at the end to enjoy the results of the class's efforts. Classes can be purchased individually for $75 each. The cost of the classes is all-inclusive aside from the tax.*  

 

Please contact Dakota at 774-241-8450 to experience Table 3's newest culinary adventure.


 *Credit card information will be taken at the time of reservation. Cancellations must be made at least three days in advance. Refunds will be made in the form of a Table 3 gift card to be used in one of our restaurants or for a future special event dinner.

Annual Fishing Tackle Rep Day at Klem's  

March 14, 9am-4pm
hanging-fishing-hooks.jpg

 Reel in Savings with the Lowest prices of the year on Fishing Merchandise!  

Catch even more fish with the latest gear for 2015! Drawings, Give-a-ways & In-store specials!

 

ATTENTION ANGLERS - Meet the Reps and Experts from: Al's Goldfish, Berkley, Yum, Pflueger, Rebel, Mitchell, Bomber, Fenwick, Rapala, Arbogast, Shakespeare, Penn, Eagle Claw, Abu Garcia, Okuma, Tica, Heddon, Grizz Baits, Boag Hog, Caddis Waders, Kellogg Marine, Mason Tackle, Gamakastu, Spro, Yo-Zuri, Booyah, Abu-Garcia, Johnson, Live Target, Pinnacle, Spiderwire, Stren, Trophy Fish Taxidermy, Jackhammer Charters, Thomas & UglyStik

 

Dan Kenney from Go Fish will be signing autographs!

 

For more information contact Dave at [email protected] or 508-885-2708.

 

Klem's                   117 West Main Street               Spencer, MA
Coggno Training
Click on the image to browse our catalog of training courses!
Save these Dates!
February 14: Valentine's Day
February 14-22: February School Vacation Week  
February 16: Presidents' Day & Kid's Expo at Sturbridge Host Hotel   
February 21: Antique Sleigh Rally at OSV 

February 25-26: New England Agricultural Marketing Conference & Trade Show

 March 7: Poultry Seminar at Klem's 

March 8: Daylight Savings Time Begins  

March 16: Fun at Five at Rovezzi's with Venture Community Services 
March 20: First Day of Spring!  

Thank you for posting your events to our Events Calendar!

Chamber logo with tag