Sleepless in Sturbridge: Massachusetts: Southbridge

RMV MOVING BACK TO SOUTHBRIDGE (01550)

The Registry of Motor Vehicles closed up next to Big Bunny in Southbridge last August and reopened in Charlton off the Mass Pike.  There has been much controversy as to why the move took place and how safe it really was.  I, for one, really didn't like the people turning on a busy 4 lane road to get into the RMV in Charlton.  It wasn't safe at all. 

After a 8-1 vote on Monday, June 28th, a 10 year lease was approved to bring a new branch of the RMV into the Casaubon Senior Center on Larochelle Way.  The Senior Center is moving to the Community Center on Chestnut Street within 30 days.  You can look for the new RMV location to be open within the next 60 days.

The Express RMV in Southbridge will offer limited services leaving the driving and licensing permit tests to the Department of Transportation in Sturbridge.  They have discussed possibly expanding in the future, but nothing has been set at this time.  The RMV will be renting from the town for free for the next 2 years and then they will begin to pay $10,569.96 the 3rd year, increasing until they pay $16,383.48 in the final year. 

This is great news for locals that have been used to having the RMV in Southbridge for years and were sad to see it close up and move to Charlton.  I much prefer going to Southbridge for my renewal needs.

Hours of operation will be Monday - Friday from 9AM - 5PM except for holidays.

 JUST LISTED - 58 PARK AVE. IN SOUTHBRIDGE MA - 01550

$169,900

OPEN HOUSE SUN. 3/7 12-2PM! Charming cape nestled on a quiet street lined w/sidewalks. You will love this well cared for home w/many updates. New vinyl siding, replacement windows, updated electrical, oak & yellow pine floors, ceramic tile in main level bath, 2nd floor laundry room, 1 car garage w/loft, professionally manicured yard w/private patio. Formal dining rm featuring built in China cabinet, lrg living rm w/beautiful fireplace & pellet stove, kitchen w/new appliances & pantry. Must See!

Vienna Restaurant & Historic Inn - Dining in Southbridge MA is a classy restaurant featuring classic Austrian, European & Continental cuisine in a very romantic setting.  Owners Lisa and Jonathan Krach are very friendly, outgoing and charming people that I had the pleasure of meeting at some Chamber of Commerce events. 

The menu at the Vienna Restaurant & Historic Inn features Hungarian Goulash, Schnitzel Cordon Bleu, Beer Battered Shrimp and much more!  Luxurious accommodations are available for very reasonable rates.  The accommodations include an in suite private bath, living room, queen size bed, European down comforters, toiletries, mineral water and organic lemon verbena hand/face soap.  You will also receive a cocktail or beverage of your choice upon arrival, a full gourmet breakfast and Chef inspired hor d'oeuvresof the day between 4-6PM.   The food is absolutely delicious, the atmosphere is enchanting and the owners are delightful.  I strongly recommend Vienna Restaurant & Historic Inn if you are looking for a getaway or a romantic dinner in the Southbridge/Sturbridge area. 

To learn more about other great places to dine and visit in Central Massachusetts, check out our series 100 Days of Central Mass.

 100 DAYS OF CENTRAL MASS FEATURES HARRINGTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Located in South Central Massachusetts in the city of Southbridge is Harrington Memorial Hospital.  Harrington is a non-profit institution that opened it's doors in 1931.  The hospital provides healthcare to 17 towns in South Central Mass and parts of Connecticut and about 350 square miles.  Harrington Memorial strives to provide outstanding care and seeks donations from the community to expand and grow.  This modern facility now has 113 beds. 

Their Mission Statement:

The mission of the Hospital is to provide high quality healthcare services to our patients in a safe environment and in an efficient and effective manner which provides superior value to the residents of South Central Massachusetts. The overall mission also includes the responsibility to respond to the needs of the organization's employees, community, and other constituencies. The vision of the Hospital is to develop organizational capabilities required to respond to improving the health of the communities in South Central Massachusetts through integrated health care.

Ed Moore,
CEO and President

100 South Street
Southbridge, MA 01550
Tel: 508-765-9771
TTY: 508-765-3149
Physician Referral: 508-765-9771, ext. 3455

100 DAYS OF CENTRAL MASS FEATURES WESTVILLE DAM RECREATION AREA

Close to downtown Southbridge you will find Westville Dam Recreation Area. The dam is located on the Quinebaug River in the towns of Southbridge and Sturbridge.  The recreation area of the park offers 2 covered picnic areas that can be reserved for a fee, lots of picnic tables with grills, a three acre athletic field for soccer and softball teams, and two boat launch areas.  The Westville Dam Recreation Area is a popular spot for fishing, fly fishing, canoeing, kayaking, ice skating, sledding and cross country skiing.  This is a great park to visit if you're looking for a nice day outdoors to fly a kite or have a picnic.  Check it out if you're ever in the area or try it out for your next family reunion!