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In This Issue
Fun at Five Visits Zukas!
Here Comes GEOFEST!
M2M Offers
Free Software Training
Clambake Memories
CBA Meeting
Hometown Bank Announces Promotion
HHS Awarded $10,000 Grant
NBSB Hosts Renovation Celebration
NBSB Chairman of the Board Recognized as an "Honorary Guardian"
North Brookfield Savings Bank Appoints New Help Desk Technician
NBSB Hires Commercial Credit Analyst
TLGV: Be a Part of Tastes of the Valley
Harrington Welcomes Physicians
Textile Weekend at OSV
Free Fun Fridays!
Painting Party
Cruising for Charity Car Shows
Cooking with Rico: Great Pizza
Jazz on the Patio
Bill Mastro Memorial Golf Tournament
Publick House Community Feasts
Salem Cross Inn Dining Events
TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure
Stageloft Theater
Harrington's Car & Motorcycle Show
Village Toastmasters Meetings
Free Saturday Tastings
The Spencer Fair
The Woodstock Fair
Brimfield Shows are Back!
Dr. Vanvooren Golf Tournament
Alzheimers Fundraiser
Harvest Craft Fair
Nipmuck Pow Wow
Wine, Beer & Food Festival
Concerts on the Commons
Local Farmers' Markets & Farm Stands
24/7 Training
Save these Dates!
Southbridge CU
NBSB Business Center
C-Mass Geofest
Chamber of Commerce 
Board of Directors
 _________

Executive Committee
 
 
     
Michael Checkosky
Chairman
 
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

Jessica Bettencourt
Klem's

Jocelyn Callis
 
Chris Canniff

Bob Datz 
datzmedia 

Alycia Dzik
Webster First Federal Credit Union

Rita Schiano 
 
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

Counsel
Padgett D. Berthiaume
 
 __________

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 August's Crossroads Events!
This issue has you covered right up through Labor Day weekend and beyond with fantastic events happening in our area, plus important news items from our Members.

Check out the details on a great Chamber networking event at Zukas, C-MASS GEOFEST, our area's very first geocaching event, Textile Weekend and a Free Fun Friday coming to Old Sturbridge Village, and more!

Fall's coming! We urge you to check our calendars and post your events for autumn to the Chamber's
Events page. We love to share your events with our 800+ subscribers! Thank you for posting them!

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

Fun at Five
visits
Zukas Hilltop Barn 
September 14  
 
89 Smithville Road, Spencer 
508-885-5320  

All are welcome to join the Chamber at Zukas Hilltop Barn in Spencer for an evening of networking and fun on Monday, September 14. We invite you to enjoy tasty treats, a cool cocktail, chances to win some nifty drawing prizes, and networking at this striking  
hilltop venue.
 
Chef-owned and operated for over twenty years, Zukas is a banquet facility featuring stunning views, grounds and gardens and a veteran staff whose only goal is to make every component of your special event come off flawlessly.

Cost to attend is $10 for Chamber Members who register, $15 at the door, or $20 for non-Members.  
 
RSVP to the Chamber at 508-347-2761 or email:
 
Thank you 
to our Fun at Five Sponsor!
SpencerBank  
176 Main Street, Spencer   
C-Mass Geofest
August 19-23, 2015
Sturbridge, MA & Surrounding Area
GC5W6B
 
Soon to be a major regional event for geocachers old and new, C-MASS GEOFEST launches with events running August 19-23 in and around Sturbridge. Enthusiastic geocachers will fill the hole in their August calendars. Other events will entertain children and families between forays onto our abundant trails and scenic spaces in search of, well, geocaches. 
Activities in natural and exhilarating surroundings will familiarize visitors with the historical, dining and shopping finds as well. It will be a celebration of activism in the outdoors and residents and visitors alike are invited to mingle.

Registration for the geocaching is free.
Visit the website for more info and check out these cool events happening in conjunction with the Main Event!

C-MASS Geofest EVENTS
Wednesday, August 19
5:00-7:00pm
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for a Geocaching Event
  Jimmy D's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shoppe,
413 Main St., Sturbridge

7:00-9:00 pm 
"Cachaoke" Teddy Style/ GEOFEST Welcome Bash
Teddy G's Pub & Grille, 179 Main St., Sturbridge

Thursday, August 20
2:00-5:00 pm 
C-MASS Bowl & Putt-Putt
Bogey Lanes, 199 North Brookfield Rd.,
East Brookfield

6:00-8:00 pm 
C-MASS joins Concert on the Common
Sturbridge Town Common, Route 131

Friday, August 21
5:00-8:00 pm 
C-MASS GEOFEST 2015 Meet & Greet
Hyland Orchard & Rapscallion Brewery,
195 Arnold Rd., Sturbridge

Saturday, August 22
 
1:00-6:00 pm 
THE MAIN EVENT
C-MASS GEOFEST
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
345 Main St., Sturbridge

Workshops and Activities
1:00-6:00  Registration
1:00-5:00  Kids Activities
1:30   Geocaching 101
2:30   Puzzle Think Tank
3:30  Group Photo
4:00  Geocaching Ethics

Sunday, August 23
11:00 am-2:00 pm
See You in 2016 Send-Off
Hyland Orchard & Rapscallion Brewery,
195 Arnold Rd., Sturbridge

Sponsored by Sturbridge Tourist Association 
Presented by the Chamber of Central Mass South 
M2M Again and Again... All Summer Long!
M2M logo
Use your M2M Card for Great Deals on
Dining, Lodging, Attractions, Shops & Services!
From Members... For Members!

Click on the logo to view all current M2M Offers...
or Call us Today to add your offer!

Free Business 
Software Training
for Your Employees

Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation (QVCDC) is providing FREE training on MS Office software and QuickBooks to incumbent employees of companies that pay into the MA Workforce Training Fund through their payroll taxes.

QVCDC will train at or near your business location in Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire or Franklin Counties. We offer training on Word, Excel, Access, Essential Computing Skills, Windows 8 and QuickBooks and provide the training computers, text books and instructors at no cost to the business!

Companies eligible for training complete a simple 1-page application and provide proof of current Worker's Comp coverage and a Certificate of Good Standing from the MA Dept. of Revenue. (Forms and assistance available from QVCDC.) Employees have to be paid their regular wage while in training.

We will schedule training when convenient for your business, so call 413.967.3001 or email [email protected] for more information.

Funding for the Regional Capacity Building Pilot Grant is provided in full through the MA Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and is administered by the Commonwealth Corporation.

Quinebaug Valley Community Development Corporation
23 West Main Street, Ware, 01082
413-967-3001

Visit QVCDC online.
Raffle Winner!
2015 Clambake: Thanks for the Memories!

We sure had a perfect night at the beautiful Publick House Historic Inn for this year's annual outing! The Chamber extends its gratitude to our wonderful host and their gracious staff, our band, Livestock, and the evening's entertainment sponsor, United Lens Company.

Thanks are also due to all who came and enjoyed a fantastic feast with us and everyone who supported this year's Chamber Raffle! Congratulations to our BIG Winner, Troy Bennett of Wales who took home the grand prize of $1000 in lottery scratch tickets. Troy has scratched winning tickets worth $735!  

CONNECT WITH
cba
Next CBA Meetings
WHAT: Community Business Associates Meeting
WHERE: Oliver Wight Tavern, Old Sturbridge Village
WHEN: 7:15 a.m., August 28
 
If you are looking for a more formal marketing platform than Fun at Five, check out CBA!  
CBA is the business networking and referrals program of the Central Mass. South Chamber. The group meets at 7:15 a.m. in the Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village on the second and fourth Friday of each month. Guests are welcome at no charge. CBA meetings also feature networking and community updates and adjourn by 8:30 a.m.

Hometown Bank Announces Promotion

Susan Rheault Susan Rheault has been promoted to supervisor of operations, according to Vice President of Human Resources and Operations Norma Collins. In her new position, she will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operational efforts of the Bank and ensuring that established operational and security policies and procedures are followed.

Ms. Rheault started her career with Hometown Bank in 2008 as a full time teller in the Oxford office.  She later held the position of bookkeeper within the accounting department before moving to the operations department in 2011. In 2014, she was selected to participate in Hometown 360, the Bank's year-long management training program.

A resident of Putnam, CT, Ms. Rheault is a graduate of Oxford High School and is presently pursuing an associate's degree in business management at Quinebaug Valley Community College.
 
Hometown Bank is a $400 million mutual bank with offices in Athol, Auburn, Leominster, Oxford, South Lancaster, Sturbridge and Webster, Massachusetts.

Hometown Bank
Harrington HealthCare System Awarded $10,000 Grant
from Janet Malser Humanities Trust
 
Malser Grant
Nurse Danielle Croteau with one of the blanket warmers purchased through the awarded grant.
Harrington HealthCare System has been awarded a grant of $10,000 from the Janet Malser Humanities Trust as a contribution toward equipment for the Diagnostic Imaging Department, at its Webster campus on Thompson Road, and its Rehab Department, on Cudworth Road in Webster.
 
This grant will allow Harrington to meet increased demand and develop a more robust Sports Medicine program. According to Pam Zouranjian Connor, Harrington's Executive Director of Satellite Operations, in 2014, Harrington HealthCare at Webster provided 12,195 physical therapy visits and 1,374 occupational therapy visits, for a total of 13,569 visits. Total visits are expected to increase by five percent this year.
 
For the sports medicine program, Harrington has purchased two Hi-Lo treatment tables and a recumbent bicycle with upper-body ergometer. Zouranjian Connor says that Hi-Lo tables are ideal for patients whose mobility is compromised and who may have difficulty stepping up. In addition, the Hi-Lo table will allow Harrington to provide better care to its lymphedema and bariatric (obese) patients.
 
The recumbent bike will distribute the rider's weight comfortably over a larger area. This is also a benefit for patients with limited mobility, many of whom are elderly, post-operative knee/hip patients, and those working on conditioning. This piece of equipment also has a UBE (Upper- Body Ergometer), which is like a bicycle that you peddle with your arms. This function of the equipment works well for shoulder problems, cardiac endurance, and pulmonary function.
 
For the Diagnostic Imaging Department, Harrington purchased a blanket warming unit, which can provide heating from 98 degrees to 200 degrees to "ensure maximum patient comfort and safety." Zouranjian Connor says that heated blankets have been proven to help calm patients, especially when many feel cold, anxious, and uncertain. The application of pre-warmed blankets also has a positive psychological impact.
 
"We are grateful for the Janet Malser Trust and its generous gift," said Zouranjian Connor. "They continue to show great support and enthusiasm for our projects that benefit local communities."
 
In June 2014, the Janet Malser trust awarded Harrington $8,298 for equipment for the new Remillard Family Emergency Department at the Webster campus.
 
Janet Malser was a lifelong resident of Dudley and Webster, Mass. She established this trust so that the causes she was involved with would continue to be supported when she was no longer here. She loved art, history, nature, and music.
 
The Janet Malser Humanities Trust was established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation. Its purpose is to fund educational, cultural, historic and charitable causes in the towns of Dudley, Oxford and Webster. For more information, visit janetmalsertrust.org.

Harrington Healthcare logo
NBSB Hosts Renovation Celebration for Ware Branch & Business Center
NBSB's Ware Branch & Business Center unveiled after one year of restorations
A ribbon cutting was held at the NBSB Renovation Celebration for the new Business Center, which houses a strong commercial lending team. Shown at the ceremony were (left to right) M. Richard Pluta, NBSB Trustee; Lewis Iadarola, Ware Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman; John Carroll, Ware Selectmen; Anthony Piermarini, NBSB Senior VP/Senior Commercial Loan Officer; Donna Boulanger, NBSB President & CEO; Paul Opalinski, Ware Community Development Authority Member; William Braman, Ware Business & Civic Association President; Tracy Opalinski, Ware Community Development Authority Member; and Leonard Weake, Quaboag Hills Chamber President.
 
North Brookfield Savings Bank has recently hosted a Renovation Celebration of the renovated and restored Ware Branch & Business Center, located at 40 Main Street in Ware, MA.
 
North Brookfield Savings Bank President and CEO Donna Boulanger welcomed guests to the Renovation Celebration and shared some of the new convenient features of the Ware Branch & Business Center located at 40 Main Street in Ware.
 
The renovation celebration, held on June 23, was attended by more than 75 local leaders who had the chance to meet the Ware branch staff and Business Center team. Tours of the state-of-the-art facility and demonstrations of cash recyclers were also available. Additionally, there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the building's new Business Center.

The Ware Branch & Business Center has an innovative, contemporary setting. The offices and hallways have been updated to contain partial glass walls to create a welcoming, open and bright atmosphere. The building also received an improved, technology-enhanced teller line, better able to streamline everyday teller line transactions and improve the customer's banking experience. 

NBSB's new Business Center has brought a strong commercial banking team to the Ware location. This additional Business Center complements the North Brookfield Business Center and Belchertown Business Center. 

"We want to thank our neighbors and friends for their patience during this process. We are so proud to be part of Ware's thriving and enthusiastic community," said North Brookfield Savings Bank President & CEO Donna Boulanger. "After a year of renovations, we couldn't be happier with the improvements and expansion of the Ware Branch & Business Center. It has been a long time coming, and it feels great to see it all finally come to fruition."
NBSB logo
NBSB Chairman of the Board Recognized as an "Honorary Guardian"  
by Quinsigamond Community College  
Roland Gauthier, NBSB Chairman of the Board, receives an "Honorary Guardian" designation for 20 years with QCC; Mary DiBara, co-chair of QCC's event, applauds in background.
 
North Brookfield Savings Bank is proud to announce that the Bank's Chairman of the Board Roland Gauthier has been recognized as an "Honorary Guardian" by Quinsigamond Community College for his nearly 20-year dedication to the school.

At QCC's 50th Anniversary Celebration on June 17 at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, QCC also honored those who have made significant strides in their community as well as their personal lives as a "Guardian Protector" of the college. The designation, awarded to QCC alumni, symbolizes the spirit of the College's mythological dragon mascot, the Wyvern, as the guardian protector of Worcester, England.

Additionally, those who have worked diligently for the College, whether alumni or not, are, on special occasion, deemed "Honorary Guardians," which is the tribute that Gauthier, along with five others, received.

Gauthier has been a key member at QCC since the beginning of his involvement with the school's Foundation in 1996 before being appointed to the Board of Trustees in 1998. Later, he went on to serve as Vice Chairman, Chairman and President of the Foundation. When he retired from the QCC Foundation Board in 2012, he was elected as a "Lifetime Director."

In addition, Gauthier, of North Brookfield, is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants, and has taught accounting classes at Worcester State College and Mt. Wachusett Community College. Gauthier also owns an accounting firm on Main Street in Spencer. He has been a Trustee with North Brookfield Savings Bank since 1978.

"I truly believe that the most important investment one can make is in the education of students," Gauthier says. "QCC gave me the opportunity to instill my belief and offer continuous contributions to the community throughout the years, and I'm grateful for all of the support I've received."
NBSB logo
North Brookfield Savings Bank Appoints New Help Desk Technician 

Scott Garrand North Brookfield Savings Bank is pleased to announce the recent hire of Scott Garrand as Information Technology Help Desk Technician. Garrand previously served as the Information Technology Specialist at Masonic Health Systems in Charlton, MA for four years. He was also previously a Teller at NBSB in 2009.

In his position as Information Technology Help Desk Technician, Garrand provides daily technical support to all NBSB staff and helps to streamline customer satisfaction using his vast knowledge in the information technology field.

"It was apparent how customer driven and technologically savvy Scott was when we first met him, and we knew he would be a great asset to our technology team," said Donna Boulanger, NBSB President and CEO. "We're very excited to have him on board."
NBSB logo
North Brookfield Savings Bank Hires Commercial Credit Analyst 
for New Ware Business Center

Gary Doane North Brookfield Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Gary Doane has been hired as a Commercial Credit Analyst for the Bank's new Business Center at the Ware branch. In his new role, Doane will be developing financial profiles and working with our commercial loan customers, among other responsibilities. He looks forward to growing with his new team.

Doane brings more than 25 years of financial experience to the Bank as he enters this role. Most recently, Doane served as the Financial Consultant of Barcol Air USA in Oxford, Connecticut. Before that, he was President/Chief Operating Officer of National Association of Credit Management Connecticut Inc., Senior Credit Analyst of TD Bank and Corporate Group Credit Manager of Mestek, Inc. In addition, he has earned certifications as a Group Administrator, Lifetime International Credit Professional and Lifetime International Credit Executive.

"We're extremely excited to welcome Gary to our team of commercial financial experts at the new Ware Business Center," said Donna Boulanger, NBSB President and CEO. "His many years in the financial industry and balanced knowledge of finance, economics and accounting is a key component to the continued success of North Brookfield Savings Bank."
NBSB logo
TLGV Invites You to Be Part of Tastes of the Valley 
 
The Last Green Valley invites you to be a part of Tastes of the Valley!
  • Attend - tickets are going fast, cost $65, and can be purchased at http://shop.thelastgreenvalley.org/collections/events 
  • Sponsor - $200 (includes 1 ticket), $400 (includes 2 tickets), $800 (includes 4 tickets), $1,200 (includes 6 tickets).
  • Donate - raffle baskets (get together with fellow business folks and create a "town raffle basket"), auction items, farm product for chefs to choose and create with
  • Create - your restaurant is invited to choose from the available donated local product and create your special taste!
We can't do it without all of you!
Thank you so much, and we hope to see you tasting and sipping at Tastes of the Valley! 
Tastes of the Valley
Board-Certified Emergency Physicians
Dr. Mary-Elise Smith, Dr. Kathy Finn, and Dr. Josh Flanagan
Join UrgentCare Express at Harrington
Harrington Welcomes MDs

Harrington HealthCare has named three board-certified physicians who will work at its recently announced urgent care center. Dr. Mary-Elise Smith and Dr. Kathy Finn have joined UrgentCare Express at Harrington as staff physicians, and Dr. Josh Flanagan has been named Medical Director.

The urgent care center, which will provide walk-in medical care for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses, is scheduled to open in September. It will be located inside the Harrington HealthCare at Charlton building at 10 North Main Street.

"It is important that we offer our patients the best quality of care possible," said Kristin Morales, Executive Director of Harrington Physician Services, Harrington's primary care and multidisciplinary group. "To do this, we are staffing UrgentCare Express with board-certified emergency physicians. Not all urgent care is created equal, and we believe that our doctors will make the difference."

Dr. Smith is currently employed at UMass Memorial Medical Center as an Attending Physician in its Emergency Medical Department and is also the director of its Emergency Preparedness Education and Training program, and the Division of Disaster Medicine & Emergency Management.  She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biological Sciences and a Doctorate of Medicine, both from New York University, as well as a Masters in Disaster and Emergency Management from American Military University in Charles Town, West Virginia. She also completed an Emergency Medicine residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Smith is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and has won numerous honors and awards, including "Woman of Distinction" from Girls Scouts of America.

Dr. Kathy Finn has been with Harrington for several years as an Attending Physician in the Harrington Emergency Departments (in Southbridge and Webster) and the Harrington Wound Care Center. She has a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Adelphia University in Garden City, NY and a Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from the University of Osteopathic Medicine at Des Moines. She also completed an Emergency Medicine residency at Geisinger Medical Center in Philadelphia. She is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and is certified in in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Advanced Trauma Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.

In addition to his role as Medical Director, Dr. Flanagan will continue working in the Harrington Emergency Departments as well as serve as one of the on-site physicians at the new urgent care center. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Middlebury College in Vermont as well as a Doctorate of Medicine from UMass Medical School, where he also did his residency in Emergency Medicine. He is certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Advanced Trauma Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.
Harrington Healthcare logo
Don't miss these terrific local events!
Textile Weekend: Everyday Elegance: Early 19th Century Clothing for Ladies and Gentlemen
Saturday, August 15, 2015 to Sunday, August 16, 2015
For a schedule of Saturday's events, click here
For a schedule of Sunday's events, click here

Come to the Village this weekend for a celebration of textiles, including these special activities:

    A Laundry Demonstration on Saturday
    An Ironing Demonstration on Sunday
    Sewing Shoe Uppers
    Making Clothing for the Family
    Knitting for a Cause
    Re-dyeing Clothing
    Constructing Men's Garments
    Dressing Out: The Layers of Fashion
    Making Paper Dolls and Soldiers
    A Tour of Plants Used for Making Dyes
    A 19th-century Fashion Show

Even the everyday clothing worn by New England residents in the early 19th century had a certain understated elegance that seems lacking in comparison to today's fashions. Bonnets, belts, cuffs, collars, combs, tailcoats and top hats were commonplace and gave an air of formality to what was considered regular day wear, as opposed to modern tastes for cut-off jeans, shorts, t-shirts and tank tops. While today comfort is paramount, elegance was the norm in the 19th century. Historians at Old Sturbridge Village will salute this style with "Everyday Elegance" at the annual Textile Weekend that features special tours, demonstrations and a fashion show on August 15-16.

During Textile Weekend, interpreters will offer a gallery talk in the special exhibit called "Sight Unseen: Embellished Undergarments of the Early 19th Century," which exposes the normally hidden garments that, while not seen in public, were carefully crafted. The detailed needlework that was done to decorate these pieces is thus often under appreciated, until now. In contrast to finely decorated pieces, some garments were heavily altered or repaired in areas that did not show. Artifacts displayed in the exhibit include embroidered petticoats, men's waistcoats, bedtime clothing, and even carved busks--wooden or bone implements that aided women in maintaining a straight posture.

All Textile Weekend programs are free for OSV members, and included with regular admission.
See more at www.osv.org.

COMING UP: Family Fun Days, September 5-7 
Bring the whole family and celebrate Labor Day Weekend with games and excitement for everyone! See the details on the website.

Free Fun Fridays! 
Highland Street Foundation's 'Free Fun Fridays' offers visitors no cost admission to many of the most treasured cultural venues in Massachusetts.
See the schedule here.
August 28
Old Sturbridge Village
will participate in Free Fun Fridays on August 28.
Admission to the Village will be FREE!

ATTENTION:
Due to the high volume of visitors expected, the access road from Route 20 to I-84 will be CLOSED on August 28. Please make a note of it.
Painting Party
Painting Party
August 15, 7-9pm
Gateway Players Theatre, 111 Main Street, Southbridge
 
As part of our Summer "One Night Stands" fundraising programs, Gateway Players Theatre will be hosting a Painting Party on Saturday, August 15th at 7pm. Our own Simone Germain will be the instructor for the night. The theme of the painting is still to be decided, but it will be theatrically related. Cost is $35 per person. Snacks will be provided, and all you budding artists can BYOB! Please call the Barn at 508-764-4531 to sign up for this fun event. And bring a friend!

Cruising for Charity Car Shows

Every Wednesday Night at 5pm in the field next to Klem's Starting June 3rd through August 26th, 100% of the profits go to the Masonic Children's Charity.

 

Weekly Show Classes:

August 19th: Best Corvette & Best of Show

August 26th: Best of Season, Mason's Choice & Driver's Choice

 

Please note if there is a cancellation or rain out, the missed week's awards will be given out at the next cruise along with the scheduled awards. In the event that the Grand Finale show is rained out, the season will be extended one week in order to hand out awards.

 

Klem's                   117 West Main Street               Spencer, MA
Cooking with Rico: Secrets to Great Pizza
August 20, 2015 at 6:30pm
Avellino
Pizza as we knew and loved as kids has taken on a whole new epicurean life and now the varieties and places to enjoy it are endless. Brick-oven, grilled, Neapolitan, margherita, deep dish, New York-style are just some of the many way we take an ancient recipe to new places. Chef Rico is no stranger to pizza. Founder of the original Enrico's Brick-Oven Pizza, he has a knowledge and love for good pizza that just about any pizza junkie will appreciate. In this series of Cooking with Rico, you will learn some of Rico's trade secrets and discover just how simple great pizza made at home can be.

This event is $69 per person with wine pairings, or $52 without.* Price includes all taxes and gratuities Make your reservations now by calling Avellino at 508-347-2321.
 
Table 3
Jazz on the Patio, Friday, August 21, 5:00-7:00pm

We're planning an intimate jazz get-together on the patio at Avellino & The Duck. On Friday afternoon August 21 from 5:00-7:00 pm, Brian Kearsley's Joyco Jazz Duo will be laying down the tunes. Avellino & The Duck will provide complimentary appetizers. If you would like to join us for dinner after the jazz we'll be offering a $10 off coupon. So come on over and enjoy some great late summer weather, the progressive sounds of Joyco, some scrumptious complimentary appetizers, and make a night of it with a great dinner deal in either of our fine restaurants.

Please RSVP by calling 508-347-2321 and get on the list for a great kick-off to the weekend.
Golf ball
Bill Mastro Memorial Golf Tournament
August 22, 7:30am to 2:00pm, Pine Ridge Country Club
 
$100 per person includes golf, cart, dinner, and prizes.

A raffle for some great items will also be held, and non-golfers are welcome to attend the dinner for $20. New this year will be a Putting contest. Both golfers and non-golfers can enter for $10, and a chance to win a great prize.

To register your team of four golfers or an individual player, call 508- 864-2595.  Order tickets online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1833251

Hole sponsorships are also available at $100 per hole, and any prize donations for the raffle are greatly appreciated. 

This will be a fundraiser for Gateway Players Theatre and the Bill Mastro Memorial Scholarship, which is given each year to a deserving high school senior who has been involved with Gateway Players.
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!
 
August 24
The Yellow House, Palmer
Nick Perry Memorial Foundation
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:
Salem Cross Inn header
Farmers Diner
Upcoming Farmers' Dinners  

August 26

September 2

September 23 

From our farm to your plate...back by popular demand! 

  

The Salem Cross Inn in West Brookfield, MA held its first Farmers' Dinner in September of 2014 and it was such a hit that there will be a series of them held during the gardening season for 2015. The inspiration for the menus are based on what is growing in the gardens just steps from the kitchen.  Chef Laurent keeps tabs on what is growing daily and tailors his menus around what he sees in front of him.  The herbs and vegetables are grown by Jonathan Cook, John Salem and Bo Salem.  It's a group effort!  When beef is used as the entr�e, it is beef raised right here by David Salem of Salem Cross Farms.  Whatever isn't grown at the Salem Cross Inn farm is locally sourced for a delicious, fresh, and memorable meal.  Informal garden tours will be offered and there will be a demonstration by one of the chefs who will share some cooking tips.

  

Upcoming dates for these dinners are August 26 (featuring pork), September 2 (featuring braised short ribs), and September 23 (featuring lamb shank).    

 

Pictures from the August 12 "A Taste of West Brookfield" Farmers' Dinner. 

Salem Cross Gardens
Salem Crosss Chef 
The menus will be posted on www.salemcrossinn.com about 1 month in advance but, as everyone knows, Mother Nature rules so they are subject to change!

Tickets are $75 per person including tax and gratuity and may be purchased on the website or by calling 508-867-2345.     

SCI and REDO
  SALEM CROSS INN          WEST BROOKFIELD          508-867-2345 
TLGV logo  
TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure
The Full Moon Above 
August 29, 7-8:30pm
Lyon Preserve, Pomfret, CT  
 
 Where: Wyndham Land Trust Lyon Preserve, Pomfret CT
On Wrights Crossing Rd.-> take Rte. 101 -> Mill Rd -> Wrights Crossing.
Lyon Preserve is on the sharp corner just off Mill Road.
Look for The Last Green Valley Acorn Adventure signs.
Drive in and park - then let us EXPLORE!

Details: Acorns Celebrate the Full Moon!

*Explore! We'll hike around Lyon Preserve & enjoy a scavenger hunt!

Then by the fire, we'll enjoy all this!
*Nature Charades: Think of ideas, and we'll act out all sorts of nature-themed charades!

*Stories: Tell your favorite summer time things to do!

*Bring: Camera, binoculars, smiles!

Together we can Enjoy, Share and Pass on The Last Green Valley!

Snacks, Acorn Club stickers & full moon fact sheets provided for the kids of all ages, too!
https://www.facebook.com/events/374600026079359/

Thanks to Putnam Bank for sponsoring Acorn Adventures.
Special thanks to Wyndham Land Trust for sharing their special property with all of us!
Stageloft Repertory Theater Presents
Sex Please, We're Sixty
August 7-29
Sex Please, We're Sixty

This fast-moving farce is set in Mrs. Stancliffe's Rose Cottage Bed & Breakfast, where her guests - nearly all of whom are women - return year after year.

Her next-door neighbor, the elderly, silver-tongued Bud "The Stud" Davis believes they come to spend time with him for "romantic liaisons." The prim and proper Mrs. Stancliffe steadfastly denies this, but doesn't do anything to prevent it, reluctantly accepting the fact that "Bud the Stud"
is good for business.
 
Her other neighbor and would-be suitor, Henry Mitchell, is a retired chemist who has developed a blue pill called "Venusia," after Venus, the goddess of love.
The concoction is intended to increase the libido of menopausal women.
But the pill hasn't been tested.
 
The guest list then adds three older women: Victoria Ambrose, a romance novelist whose personal life seems to be lacking in romance; Hillary Hudson, a friend of Henry who has agreed to test the Venusia; and Charmaine Beauregard, a Southern belle whose libido doesn't need to be increased!
 
Bud gets his hands on some of the Venusia pills and the fun begins, as he attempts to entertain all three women. The women mix up Bud's Viagra pills with the Venusia, and we soon discover that it has a strange effect on men - giving them all the symptoms of menopausal women, complete with hot flashes, mood swings, weeping and irritability!

As the mayhem settles down, each woman finds her life moving in new and surprising directions.
 
Show Run: Aug. 7 to Aug. 29
(Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m.,  
with special 2 p.m. Saturday matinee on Aug. 29)
To reserve tickets by phone, call (508) 347-9005.

OPENING SEPTEMBER 4: ON GOLDEN POND
 
Stageloft Repertory Theater
450A Main Street, Sturbridge MA 01518
Harrington Auxiliary Cruises into Healthcare with
Annual Classic Car and Motorcycle Show

Harrington HealthCare System's Auxiliary is hosting a classic car and motorcycle show on Sunday, August 30 at Thompson Speedway in Thompson, Conn. The show will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and trophies will be presented at 2 p.m.
 
This year, the Auxiliary, which has hosted the classic car show for the past several years, is including classic motorcycles in the showcase. Registration costs $10 per entry. Dash plaques, entertainment, food, and ice cream from Bogey's Ice Cream will be available throughout the event.
 
"This is always one of the Auxiliary's favorite annual events and this year we are so excited to include motorcycles in addition to the beautiful classic cars our community members showcase," says Kelly Hibbard, Harrington's Volunteer Coordinator and a lead in planning the event.
 
The Auxiliary holds several fund raising events per year, giving all the proceeds back to the Harrington HealthCare System. The money goes toward patient care services and equipment.
 
For more information about the car show, please contact Volunteer Services at 508-765-6472.
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Village Toastmasters Weekly Meetings
Thursday Evenings, 7:00-8:15pm
Southbridge Savings Bank Community Room
200 Charlton Road, Sturbridge
Village Toastmasters

 

Looking to develop speaking and leadership skills? Ace a job interview? Ignite your career? Confidence is earned amongst a supportive group of like minded individuals.

 

Guests are always welcome!! Visit the Toastmasters online.

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

Spencer Fair
The Spencer Fair
September 3-7
48 Smithville Road, Spencer 
 
The annual Spencer Fair will take place this year on September 3-7, 2015. The Spencer Fair is an old time, traditional country fair including ox and horse pulls, cattle, rabbit and poultry shows, hall exhibits, midway and outdoor entertainment, and should be a great time for all who attend.

With agricultural and commercial exhibits, stage shows, a midway, crafts, and a farmers market, this year will prove to be the best. See all the offerings for this year's fair at www.spencerfair.org
For more info at Fair time call 508-885-5814.

Woodstock Fair
The Woodstock Fair
September 4-7
281 Route 169, Woodstock, CT 
 
The Woodstock Fair takes place every year on Labor Day weekend. In 2015, the Fair will be celebrating its 155th year of preserving the agricultural heritage of the region.

Fairgoers will find exhibits, delicious food, exciting rides, amusements, demonstrations, all kinds of entertainment and much more. See old-fashioned tractor pulls and horse shows. Take a spin on the go-kart track or watch baby chicks hatch and more at the Fair's many agricultural exhibits. Sample local food products like apples and maple syrup. Ride the rides on the midway, sample tasty treats at the many concession stands and experience top-flight entertainment acts on multiple stages on the fairgrounds. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Campers and RVs are welcome.

Visit the website for more information.

'The Woodstock Fair is a Harvest Celebration; it's a Homecoming; it's Fun, Educational, and Entertaining. It's an Institution of its very own.'

One more time this year! The Brimfield Shows are back!

Upcoming 2015 Show Dates: September 8-13 

  

The Brimfield Antiques and Collectibles Show has been dubbed "the Queen of the outdoor shows" and a Smithsonian Treasure.  A New England tradition, the extravaganza represents the largest outdoor gathering of antique and collectibles dealers in the country with acres of tents showcasing the merchandise of thousands of dealers! As many as 4,500 dealers make Brimfield their home away from home three times a year (in May, July and September) and sell their wares on a one mile stretch of Route 20. Rain or Shine. Visit www.brimfield.com for more information.

Flea finder app logo  

Get the Brimfield App: The Brimfield Flea Finder app uses GPS technology to help you find the treasures you seek at the Brimfield Shows! Great tool for shoppers and dealers! It even helps you find your car after a long day in the fields. Find what you are looking for while saving you time and energy! http://www.insidebrimfield.com/app/
    

Are you ready for the hunt? Check out our "Brimfield Shows" board on Pinterest!

Dr. Vanvooren Golf Tournament 
September 9, 9am-5pm, Raceway Golf Course, Thompson, CT 
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Sponsored by Harrington & Rotary Club of Southbridge

TEE TIME: 9:00 AM
OPENINGS FOR TEAMS OF 4 OR INDIVIDUAL GOLFERS
$125.00/GOLFER

INCLUDES: Coffee & Donuts before golf, appetizers, a delicious beef or chicken dinner after golf.
Goody Bag for all golfers.

HOLE IN ONE ON SPECIFIED HOLE WINS A NEW CAR !!
CLOSEST TO THE PIN PRIZES
PUTTING CONTEST WITH $5000 PRIZE
LIVELY RAFFLE FOR GREAT PRIZES

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO HARRINGTON HOSPITAL'S CARDIAC REHAB PROGRAM  
& SOUTHBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB'S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

For more information or a tournament application:
EMAIL Terry Lisle - [email protected]
CALL JUDY FLANNERY    508-765-2990
A Walk to End Alzheimers Fundraiser
September 10, Knights of Columbus, Southbridge

The 2015 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Worcester County takes place in Worcester, MA on Sunday, October 4th, 2015.

Support "A Walk to End Alzheimers" by attending this local fundraiser.

Attend dinner and a show featuring Gary McKinstry who is a well known medium/psychic on Sept. 10, 2015 at the Knight's of Columbus, 487 Worcester St., Southbridge, MA. Doors will open at 5:30 with a baked ziti dinner including salad, garlic bread, assorted desserts and coffee or tea from 6:00 to 7:00.  We will have a door prize, raffles and a 50/50 chance.

Tickets are $35.00 each or a $60.00/pair. Tickets can be purchased at Fred's Variety in Fiskdale or by calling Martha at 508-612-4233. Tickets will be sold at the door but Gary's shows sell out quickly so it's best to purchase ahead of time.
 
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Harvest Craft Fair 
September 12 at Brookfield Orchards

Harvest Craft Fair at Brookfield Orchards is being held on Saturday, September 12th from 10am to 4pm! The past two years have been great and this year will be even better!

If anyone is interested,Brookfield Orchards is accepting artisans, crafters, vendors and farmers displaying their handmade items, artwork, services and goodies. Spaces are 10'x 10' area for $35. For an application, call Martha at (774) 200-4674 or (508) 867-6858. This event is rain or shine.

The orchard will also be offering Pick Your Own Apples along with their Maze. The Snack Bar will be open serving delicious apple dumplings and let's not the forget the yummy cider donuts that will be made all day long. Their wagon will be giving rides through the orchard and of course the playground and parking is FREE to enjoy!!!

Bring the family and friends and let's make this event another memory for the ages!

nipmuck pow wow
THE NIPMUCK INDIAN COUNCIL OF CHAUBUNAGUNGAMAUG PRESENTS THE 35th ANNUAL
NIPMUCK POW WOW
LAKE SIOG PARK
DUG HILL ROAD, HOLLAND, MASSACHUSETTS

SEPTEMBER 12th AND 13th, 2015 - 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Traditional and contemporary foods, authentic drumming and dancing,
Indian crafts and jewelry.

PUBLIC WELCOME

Admission: Adults $3.00, Children 6 to 12 $1.00,
Children under 6 free, Elders $1.00

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 508-347-7829
Venture logo
wine and beer
Wine, Beer & Food Festival

Thursday, September 17, 2015   5:30-8:30pm 
The Oliver Wight Tavern at Old Sturbridge Village

Venture is proud to be in its 11th year hosting this exciting event with Ted's of Charlton. Join us for delicious food from area restaurants. Taste a variety of beer, wine, vodka, cider and more while enjoying games, raffles, and our extensive silent auction. Enjoy a night out while supporting our mission!

Play "Guess the Grape" and spin the Venture Prize Wheel
Play Venture "Beer Pong"
Play "Corks & Caps to win a prize"
Take a chance to win a giant tower of wine or a barrel full of beer
Taste some great food and vote for your favorite
Live music by Andrew DaRos & Laura Folker
Gather your friends for a photo at our photo station with props
Sample wine, beer, and more...       
All guests receive a logo souvenir wine glass and tote bag.

Sponsorship Opportunities & Food Vendor Space Still Available.

See more and get your tickets here!

For more information, please contact Paige Billings at (774) 922-1135
or
[email protected].
Concerts on the Commons
concert
Southbridge Town Common (Sundays 6-8pm) 
August 16: Kalifa & Koliba presented by Schott, Inc.
August 23: Impulse Ensemble presented by United Lens Company
August 30: East Woodstock Cornet Band presented by Southbridge Businesses & Community
September 6: Chasing Blue presented by Schott, Inc.

Sturbridge Town Common (Thursdays, All concerts start at 6pm) 
August 20: Black & White (Swing Blues)  Sturbridge Tourist Association
August 27: Island Castaways (Jimmy Buffett)   Desy Ice Cream

East Brookfield Summer Concerts (6-8pm at the Town Gazebo) 
August 20: The Fairlanes and Cruisin' (Car & Tractor Night)


Did you know you can check out the Chamber's online calendar and find locations of farmers markets, summer concerts on the common, and much more?

Simply visit www.cmschamber.org/events and enter your quest into the Search bar. You can search our calendar by event (search "concert" or "market") or by location (search for "Southbridge" or "West Brookfield" to get the details on great things happening throughout our area!  

Local Farmers' Markets & Farm Stands 

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Local Farmers Market at Big Bunny
Saturdays from 10am to 2pm starting May 23. 
Big Bunny Parking Lot, 942 Main Street, Southbridge

West Brookfield Farmers' Market
June 3 to October 14. Wednesdays. From 3:00-6:00pm.
On the Town Common, Route 67 & 9, West Brookfield.

Brookfield Farmers' Market 
Friday afternoons.  From 4:00-6:00pm. June to September.
Town Common, Rte. 148 & 9, Brookfield.

 

Sunday Heritage Farmers' Market at Old Sturbridge Village 
Outside the Visitor Center. May 24 - Oct. 11. Sundays from Noon to 4:00pm.
(Village admission not required.)
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge

Hitchcock Academy's Farmers' Market
Open every Saturday from 9:00-2:00pm until November 21.
HFA Parking Lot. 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield.

Overlook Farm, 15 Long Hill Road, Brookfield
Retail stand is open with limited product. Check the website for availability.

Klem's Farmers' Market
June to October, Saturdays 10am to 2pm.
117 West Main Street, Spencer

 

Find Farmers' Markets throughout Massachusetts at this link
from the Massachusetts Dept. of Agricultural Resources.

Coggno Training
Click on the image to browse our catalog of training courses!
Save these Dates!
August 15-16: Textile Weekend at OSV   
August 19-23: C-MASS GEOFEST  

August 26: Farmers' Dinner at Salem Cross Inn   

 August 30: Harrington's Car & Motorcycle Show
September 7: Labor Day Holiday  
September 8-13: Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Shows      
September 12: Harvest Craft Fair at Brookfield Orchards   
September 14: Fun at Five at Zukas with SpencerBANK 

Thank you for posting your events to our Events Calendar!

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