Gardner News Magazine: Local News & Articles in Gardner MA

News Around Greater Gardner MA – MOBILE

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• Hubbardston HubbConnect

  

  Town of Hubbardston MA Creates Groundbreaking Website platform for Residents

  The Town of Hubbardston officially launched its completely redesigned website and introduced HubbConnect “a groundbreaking, locally-built platform that modernizes how residents access town services while streamlining internal operations.” A Gardner Magazine “Deep Dive” podcast explains it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Town of Hubbardston wrote this: “Developed entirely in-house by Town staff using Microsoft 365, CivicPlus, assisted digital coding, and Power Automate, HubbConnect represents a flexible, cost-saving solution created specifically to meet the needs of a small rural community. This innovative approach eliminates the need for multiple expensive off-the-shelf systems while delivering exceptional value to residents through enhanced access and transparency”. Hubbardston website, CLICK HERE.

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• Phillipston Common

  

  Town of Phillipston Reviews Town Common Study

  The first draft of the Phillipston Town Common Study was released on June 25, 2025. Here’s a copy on pdf.

  The Town of Phillipston is asking residents for feedback through the month of July. The study itself was funded by the Community Preservation Committee and the expenditure was approved by residents at Town Meeting.

  Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” podcast explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Send feedback to CAO Adam Lamontagne at this email: alamontagne@phillipston-ma.gov.

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• Top of the Hill

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Top of the Hill”

  Sometimes avoiding adversity can be planned. Most often it can’t. This original song is about a geographic advantage, being at the top of the hill. Pop and Jazz versions. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “When the rest are flooded out ,I’ve got my dry place to brag about, ’cause I’m at the top of the hill, And my house is dry still…(dry still)…dry still“

  The meaning of the song goes much further than a simple house on a hill.

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• Kindness 6-26-25

  

  

  Kindness Rampant in Gardner

  Gardner was recently deemed the kindest City in Massachusetts and #96 in the nation for everyday kindness. Survey page, CLICK HERE:

  
  Two local businesses are representative of the kindness norm in Gardner.

  Tractor Supply made a generous donation of dog food to the Gardner Animal Shelter. Gardner Animal Shelter posted, “THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Tractor Supply-Gardner for your generous donation of dog food. Our resident K9’s truly appreciate it!” And the Paramount Cafe is giving out FREE water during hot days. Neighboring business John’s Sport Shop posted, “Kindness is Easy & goes a long Way!!!! Thank you Neighbors!!!” Spot kindness in Gardner? Email News@GardnerMagazine.com

  And thank you for your everyday kindness.

  Previous article containing our “Deep Dive” podcast on the Cities of Kindness Report and the song “Gardner, City of Everyday Kindness” CLICK HERE.

  

  

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• Pool 6-25-25

  

  A Gardner mother posted on Facebook about the incident, “I brought my daughter swimming at the Gardner Pool this afternoon. The water was amazingly clear and perfect temperature. We were there for about 30 minutes before the pool started back washing with green/brown.. the lifeguards were yelling to get out… the ENTIRE pool was green/brown within 30 seconds…“

  Accidental Backwash Results in Short Pool Closure – then Human Discharge Closes it for Remainder of Day.

  The Greenwood Memorial Pool was closed for a short time due to an employee activating the backwash accidentally. Just prior to reopening, a child vomiting in to the pool necessitated closing the pool for the remainder of the day so it could be sanitized.

  Statement from Mayor Michael Nicholson:

  “We have been made aware of an incident that took place at the Greenwood Memorial Pool today that caused the color of the water to change. An employee of the pool inadvertently clicked the backwash switch on the control panel, which caused the filter system to begin to backwash, causing the color of the water to change. The materials that were sent into the pool had already gone through the pool’s filtration and chlorination system and had been sanitized. However, out of an abundance of caution, the Board of Health was called in to test the water to ensure it was safe for swimmers. These tests confirmed that there was nothing harmful in the water and that the water was safe for swimming.

  To be extra cautious, the Board of Health requested that the pool be closed for one hour and chlorine levels increased to ensure full sanitization of the water. Following this process, the Board of Health reinspected the water again for chlorination and clarity and approved the pool to continue operating as usual.

  
  Unfortunately, as the pool was about to re-open, a child vomited into the pool, causing the pool to be closed for the remainder of the day so the water can be re-sanitized per health regulations and standards. As such, the pool will be closed for the remainder of the day (Wednesday, June 25)“

  
  

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• Conservation 6-23-25

  

  Landfill Topic and Others Come Up Again at Conservation Commission Meeting

  Listen to the June 23, 2025 meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Winchendon 6-28-25

  

  
  Winchendon Food Truck Festival and Battle of the Bands

  The Winchendon Food Truck Festival and Battle of the Bands is Saturday, June 28, 2025 from noon to 7pm at GAR Park, 52 Murdock Avenue, Winchendon MA

  Food Truck Favorites Include: The Taco Dude • Mac Daddy • Berrysweets • Birds Nest Italian Street Food • Potato Potato • Sauced and Tossed Chicken Co • Uncle Joey’s Cannoli • Travelin’ Bones BBQ • Sugarcane Hut • Nom Nom Hut • Moe’s Sweet Eats • Eggroll Cafe Food Truck • Breez Freez • Dogfather • Bono Appetit • Easy Street Tacos

  Battle of the Bands Noon: The Faceless Hobos featuring Pat Townsend and Dave Romanowski, a duo who began playing together in 2017. 1:15pm: Sheep Dip with James Erikson, Jacqi Brown and Diane Wood 2:45pm: Rock 201 – a high energy classic rock band that has been rocking since 1998. 4:15pm – 5 piece party-cover band Plead the 5^th 5:45pm: Down Daizy – 80’s music that Rocks! With Bill Leger on guitar, Jay Sharron on drums, Joe Hazelwood – bass and Jamie Gauthier with those 80s vocals!

  The Town of Winchendon says: “Bring your appetite, your friends, and your dancing shoes — this is one summer celebration you won’t want to miss! FREE admission • Live entertainment • Family fun all day long!” For more about upcoming events in Winchendon, here is the Winchendon Parks and Recreation web page, CLICK HERE.

  Upcoming: Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday, July 12th.

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• Sweeney Injured

  

  Here’s what happened: At the intersection of Temple and Elm Street in Gardner, a Gardner City employee was up in the air in the bucket of a bucket truck repairing a flashing light. Then, an 18 wheel tractor- trailer truck clipped the bucket of the truck. This apparently caused the harness worn by Gardner Electrical Inspector Darrell Sweeney to break, propelling him to the ground and resulting in severe injuries including several broken bones. Sweeney was transported to the hospital via Life Flight and was conscious and speaking when Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson went to visit him.

  City Electrical Inspector Darrell Sweeney Seriously Injured in Accident

  A freak accident at the intersection of Temple and Elm Street in Gardner involving a tractor trailer truck hitting the edge of a bucket from a utility bucket truck resulted in serious injuries to a Gardner City employee.

  Statement by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Accident today Involving City Electrical Inspector Darrell Sweeney:

  “Earlier today, City of Gardner employee Darrell Sweeney was seriously injured in a work-related accident. I was able to visit and speak with him briefly in the hospital, where he is being cared for by a dedicated team of medical professionals. Darrell has a difficult road ahead, but he is in good hands, and we are all hoping for his steady healing and full recovery.

  I want to express my sincere gratitude to the first responders who arrived quickly and provided critical assistance at the scene, as well as to the hospital staff who continue to care for Darrell with great skill and compassion. Their actions made an enormous difference during a very serious situation.

  Our thoughts and our prayers are with Darrell, his family, and his colleagues. The City of Gardner stands ready to support them however we can in the days and weeks to come.

  Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson“

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• Gardner Jobs 6-23-25

  

  For a current list of jobs available in Gardner Massachusetts, CLICK HERE.

  Chair City of Gardner MA has Job Opportunities

  Gardner Massachusetts is a growing City being recognized by others in the State and the Country. Working for a municipality like Gardner has its benefits well beyond the wage the position pays including health insurance and a vested retirement after 10 years. As of June 23, 2025, there are a number of openings.

  Current Opportunities with Link to Complete Details on City of Gardner Website
  DPW Mechanic – Skilled Equipment Mechanic and Operator
  Animal Control Officer – Full Time
  DPW – Full-Time Financial Administrator
  Economic Development and Finance Manager –performs professional, administrative, and technical work in both economic development and financial management.
  Mechanic – Gardner Municipal Golf Course –
  Seasonal Lifeguards – for Greenwood Pool
  Truck Driver – DPW

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• Cooling 6-23-25

  

  Cooling Centers Activated Due to High Temps

  Residents of Area Communities should check with their local town hall regarding the availability of a local cooling center to help deal with the high temperatures expected Monday June 23rd and Tuesday June 24th.

  In the City of Gardner for example, the Community Room at the Gardner Police station and the Gardner Senior Center are available until 7pm both June 23rd and June 24th as cooling centers. In addition, the Greenwood Pool will be open an extra 2 hours both days, until 7pm.

  Publisher’s Note: The graphic we used is from last year in June when we had a similar couple of hot days.

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• Trump Address 6-21-25

  

  President Donald Trump’s Address to the Nation

  President Donald Trump addressed the nation on Saturday, June 21, 2025 after the United States struck 3 sites in Iran. Listen to the 4 minute address on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• This Week 6-21-25

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City on Saturday June 21, 2025

  Listen to the weekly news magazine on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Summer Reading Kickoff – the view from Willow Street – Greenwood Pool opening details – Board of Health meeting – Power Outage – Fireworks, music, and Birthday Celebration – Budget approval – Relay for Life update – Songs published – City Events

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• Hotline 6-21-25

  

  A Busy Hotline Radio Show on WGAW

  Listen to the entire show on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of June 21, 2025 featured an ABC Report on the Karen Read trial and not guilty verdict. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the June 21st Gardner Festival, Happy Birthday Celebration, and Fireworks. The Mayor provided details on the Greenwood Pool opening and spoke of upcoming paving in the City. Hotline featured the Pastor of the Mission Grace Church. Winchendon Town Manager Bill McKinney provided an update on his community. State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik spoke about funding received due to the “millionaire’s tax.” The AUDIO of the Firefighters Memorial Ceremony was played. Firefighters were remembered and current firefighters were honored. A Firefighters Commentary with Werner Poegel.

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• View of PD

  

  Construction Fence is Down and Landscaping Fence is Up with Great view of PD

  The Gardner Police Department with its beautiful Big Chair entrance was easily visible on Friday June 2025 as workers were putting up landscaping fence around the former Rome building lot.

  The building was recently torn down and at least portions of the lot are expected to be sold at some point by the City of Gardner through an RFP process. Residents are hoping part of the plans include allowing a left turn from Willow Street to Main Street – previously not possible due to the obstruction by the building which is now gone.

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• Greenwood Open

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson explained cause of the short delay in opening on WGAW Hotline Radio. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Greenwood Pool Open for Season

  Greenwood Pool opened for the season on Friday June 20, 2025. Hours are Monday through Saturday noon to 5pm and lap swim on Fridays from 9:30-11:30am. Daily fee is Adults $5, Children $4, Seniors and Veterans $3. Season passes save 50 cents per adult visit and $1 per child visit. Passes are available online, CLICK HERE

  Greenwood Pool will be open extended hours through 7pm on Monday June23rd and Tuesday June 24th due to the expected hot weather.

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• Health June ’25

  

  June Board of Health Meeting Reveals Daily Challenges of Department

  The June 16, 2025 Gardner Board of Health meeting lasted almost an hour. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The Board of Health meeting covered a wide range of topics. A citizen was there to provide comments on the landfill and ask questions. An engineer spoke about a variance request via speakerphone. The group discussed regulations via private wells. Director Micah Blondeau updated the Board regarding the leachate pump project stating that a 2nd company went out to the landfill that day for the purpose of preparing an estimate. Results of landfill monitoring are expected any day now. Since the last meeting 29 routine food inspections and 40 housing inspections were conducted. There were no foodborne illness complaints. National Night Out is being planned by Prevention Coordinator Veronica Patty.

  Assistant Director Angela DiPrima reported on challenges faced dealing with one particular food establishment (name was not given) with repeat violations every year since 2023 regarding expiring foods and dirty coolers. Last visit and citation was June 10th. Next step might be a possible suspension.

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• Outages 6-20-25

  

  

  Update 2:30pm on 6-20-25

  Almost 1500 still out, says reassessing condition?

  Power Out in South Gardner MA – Cause and Status Unknown

  Shortly after noon on Friday, June 20, 2025, the power went out to more than 2500 electric customers in the South Gardner area. As of 1:30pm, power was still out to 2,687 customers. While the estimated restoration time is listed as 2:15pm, the case status is listed as unassigned. Outage map, CLICK HERE

  In another outage situation: Gardner City Hall did not have internet service on Friday, June 20, 2025. City Hall uses comcast. As of the 1pm closing time for City Hall, the service was still out.

  Gardner Magazine will provide more information as available. UPDATE 6-20-25 940pm: While most all of the power was restored hours ago, less than 5 customers are reportedly still without power at this hour and the estimated restoration time is about 10pm.

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• Fireworks 2025

  

  Fireworks and Music Details for Saturday, June 21st

  Fireworks will fill the sky over Kendall Pond after dusk on Saturday June 21, 2025. (Approximately 9pm) The Gardner Polish American Citizens Club advises that once their parking lot is full, parking will be at the Gardner Airport with shuttles running every 15 minutes from 2pm until after the fireworks. Food trucks expected are Shane’s Hot Dogs, Diavuolo Pizza, Isabella’s Ice Cream, and Monty’s Candy Clouds. A wide array of refreshments will be available. There’s live music all day with Point the Finger from 2 to 5pm and Maximum Recoil from 6-10pm. Admission is FREE and there is no cover charge. PACC asks that people do not bring outside coolers, drinks or food.

  At the Lithuanian Beach Club, you can relax by the beach enjoying the music and your favorite beverages. Music is from 7-11pm with The Phukovs and the Mistreaters – Atomic Blues and Electrifying Rock. Admission is FREE. Location: 23 Airport Road, Gardner.

  Earlier in the day, the Small Business Saturday and Happy 240^th Gardner Birthday celebration takes place in Downtown Gardner. Scroll down this page for the previous article with all the details, or CLICK HERE.

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• Firefighters – Razzmatazz

  

  We thank our firefighters for putting out fires wherever they may be, saving people and animals, providing first aid, responding to incidents, doing the rescues, disaster relief, and fire prevention work including inspections, education, community outreach, and so much more… THANK YOU!

  Something Really Special for our Firefighters – Firefighters with Pizzazz

  Honoring our firefighters with an assemblage of original song of very high caliber. All of these songs were more complex productions than usual (Hollywood quality) and you’ll appreciate the theme. From solos, complete chorus, instruments, etc. We bring you Razzmatazz for Firefighters with Pizzazz. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Thank you Firefighters! You have Pizzazz!

  Firefighters Commentary

  Complete Firefighters Commentary with Werner Poegel detailing all the good our firefighters do. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

  WGAW Radio Coverage

  The recent Gardner Firefighters Memorial Service is part of the Saturday, Hotline Radio Show on WGAW for Saturday, June 21, 2025. Show airs noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streamed worldwide.

  To listen to archives of the past year of Hotline Radio shows, visit this page on the WGAW website, CLICK HERE.

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• ZBA 6-17-25

  

  Last Spring Meeting of ZBA for 2025

  The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals held a 2 hour meeting on June 17, 2025 to go over more than a half dozen different cases. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Changing a two family to a three family, constructing two multi-family dwelling, condo driveways, reduce a front setback, a variance extension request, and a request for a special permit to clear land, install fence, gravel, and seasonal open storage. The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals is now 5 members.

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• Stephanie Drive

  

  First Day of Summer to Bring Milling and Grinding to Stephanie Drive

  Gardner Paving Plan in Motion: As more paving gets underway in the City of Gardner, Stephanie Drive (off West Broadway) is scheduled for milling and grinding on Friday, June 20, 2025, the first day of summer. As a mile of paved road now costs about a million dollars, funding Gardner receives from the State of MA covers less than a mile of pavement and Gardner has 100 miles of roads. There are some funds in the City budget and Gardner Mayor Nicholson has asked the City Council to allocate a higher percentage of FREE CASH to paving than was done prior to Nicholson taking office.

  From the City of Gardner: “On Friday, June 20th Stephanie Drive is scheduled for milling/grinding in preparation for paving. Expect temporary detours and road closures.” Gardner Magazine will alert you to more paving announcements as they occur.

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• Paving Man

  

  The “Paving Man” is saluted by Gardner Magazine in original song

  Everyone wants to see the paving man. Everyone wants their street to be first. Arguably, the paving man is one of the most popular characters in the City or Town. Listen to the fun tune on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “I can go on any City street, and the pleading starts from fifteen feet. When are you coming to do my road?, It’s shabby in front of my abode!…Fund me, fund me please, I will do the roads with ease, a million bucks does only a mile, the cost really cramps my style….I do as much as I can do, paving another avenue…”
  

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• Juneteenth 2025

  

  Juneteenth Celebrated on Thursday, June 19, 2025 – Federal, State, Local Offices Closed

  Juneteenth is a Federal Holiday celebrated annually on June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. This is the 5th year the holiday has been celebrated. Federal, State, and local offices will be closed. Most retailers and private businesses will remain open.

  Gardner Magazine put out an original song last Fall created from an original Juneteenth poem written by Werner Poegel. This year, the song has been redone in various genres. The powerful theme states the following: “The sentient soul is only free amidst absolute equality. White, black, brown, or blue, every color of the rainbow too. Differences embraced as perfect creations of a loving God. Discrimination disgraced as perpetrating the ultimate fraud…This is the Sentient Soul of American Freedom, all of us equal as God’s will be done.” Differences are simply variations on perfection.

  Listen to “Sentient Soul” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  

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• Bergstrom 6-17-25

  

  Small Business Saturday – Happy Birthday Gardner Interview with Patti Bergstrom

  

  Patti Bergstrom is one of Gardner’s Super Heroes who loves Gardner and loves her Downtown. Bergstrom was chosen to help coordinate Downtown Gardner events for June 21, 2025 and we had the honor of conducting an interview. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  All the details on the exciting events and activities for the entire family. The shopping. The many vendors. The non-profits. The delicious food. Patti Bergstrom covers it all. It all starts at 10am in Downtown Gardner on Saturday, June 21st. Later in the evening there will be Fireworks at Kendall Pond and FREE CONCERTS at both the PACC and the Lithuanian Beach Club

  Click on any of the following images for a larger view. Downtown Shops – Schedule – Vendors

  

  

  

  

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• City Council 6-16-25

  

  Gardner City Council Approves Budget for Fiscal Year 2026

  The Gardner City Council met on June 16, 2025 and approved the various zoning ordinances and financial ordinances. The overall budget was reduced by the salary item which the Council restricted to the original increase. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Card Man

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Card Man” – an original Soul song

  Those who struggle with answers and the decisions of life will identify with this original Soul song, “Card Man” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song” Oh, oh, oh, oh, I struggle so, took myself where I could go, still looking for the answers, hoping someone really cares….Help me, help me to find my way, to see the brightness in the day, direct the sunshine to my way, know that I’ll, that I’ll, be okay… I’m the card man, playing with a full deck…”

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• Relay Ends

  

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life Ends Close to Goal

  With about $35k to go, the Relay for Life is close to its goal. To donate, visit the Greater Gardner Relay for Life page, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 6-14-25

  

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life Highlight of WGAW Hotline Radio

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of June 14, 2025 featured the Relay for Life opening ceremonies. Listen to the complete program on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Segments of the show: Mayor Nicholson Update –Mayor Michael Nicholson Update —- Greater Gardner Relay for Life opening ceremonies including remarks of local officials, a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, and other comments and blessings. The relay began with the Survivors Lap of Hope —- How to be a “Hotline Hero” and promote your Non-profit on Hotline —- Positive Commentary on Extraordinary Gardner Educators byWerner Poegel —- Massachusetts State Senator Peter Durante regarding budget matters, state funding, and various projects.

  To get your Non-profit on Hotline Radio, simply call (978) 632-1340

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• Burger and Fries

  

  “I’ve got my eyes, got my eyes, on a big burger and fries, I don’t want a fast food surprise, just a big burger and fries.”

  Gardner Magazine Releases a very fun and funky original song “Burger and Fries”

  Listen to the song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A real fun version: JAZZ FUNK:

  Other versions, all funky, all fun in different ways:

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• Relay Update

  

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life on now through Saturday June 14th at 2pm

  They are like heroes out of a comic book. They are the fundraisers for the Greater Gardner Relay for Life which began Friday June 13^th. As of early Friday evening, the relay was at more than 75% of its $168,000 goal with just $40,000 to go. The Relay for Life runs through Saturday, June 14th at 2pm.

  With every donation, you are helping the American Cancer Society save lives.

  For inspiration, listen to our original song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• This Week 6-13-25

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” – an update on what’s going on in Gardner Massachusetts

  This program is a weekly news magazine strictly about Gardner. Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Budget Scrutiny — Explanation of 3 Deep Dive podcasts about Gardner Public Schools — Library Summer Reading —- Terri Hillman Retirement — School Committee — Construction projects — Explanation on the Greenwood demolition delay — Summer Concert Series — Junior Police Academy — Beach Boys Tribute — original songs released — upcoming events — upcoming meetings.

  Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com

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• Finance 6-12-25

  

  More Budget Scrutiny by Finance Committee Leading to Monday Council Meeting

  The Finance Committee of the Gardner City Council met on June 12, 2025 to further review budget matters and ask additional questions of Department Heads. The committee recommended the Council approve the Capital Improvement Plan. Upon various reviews, various other monetary recommendations were made. Amended Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. Listen to the Finance Committee meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City Council is meeting on June 16, 2025 at which time the budget is expected to be passed with any cuts made by the Council. 323 page Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. The Council will hear a report from the Welfare Committee relating to 3 zoning ordinances on the agenda for approval at the meeting. From the Finance Committee there a few dozen items relating to various expenditures – Listed as Committee of the Whole are even more orders and the School, Municipal, and Enterprise budgets for fiscal year 2026. Details are in the agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. The budget must be approved prior to the start of the 2026 Fiscal year on July 1, 2025.

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• Town Crier 9

  

  Stephanie Lahtinen with Me, Myself, and Your Questions

  The Town Crier is a podcast produced by the Town of Westminster and hosted by Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen. In this episode released June 12, 2025, various constituent questions are answered. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Topics covered included the annual town meeting, cell service coverage in Westminster, the Westminster Country Club property, The Old Town Hall, and the Adams Street 4db Project, and the Academy Hill playground. Lahtinen ended the podcast with an announcement of various events in the community. Visit the podcast page, CLICK HERE

  On cell service: “We currently own and operate a communications tower on South Ashburnham Road. You can see it if you drive down South Ash Road, it’s, you know, probably like 500 yards off the street. And so now we are, we have a RFP out, so a request for proposals for private cell carriers to lease space from the town and put their equipment on our tower.”

  On the Old Town Hall: “So the Old Town Hall, the plan is for it to be redeveloped with a historic preservation restriction. So the building will look exactly basically as it looks right now. All of the character, the historic structures, everything will be maintained and it’s going to have commercial on the first floor and the top two floors are planned for apartments. So the Old Town Hall will be fully rehabilitated. The building will be saved.”

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• Hotline Hero

  

  Hotline Radio is a Saturday interview program on Gardner’s WGAW Radio heard Saturdays noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1FM, and streaming worldwide. To be a Hotline Hero and get your non-profit featured on the show, call host Steve Wendell at (978) 632-1340

  Gardner Magazine Honors Long-Running “Hotline Radio” with original Hit Song

  Many guests on WGAW’s Hotline Radio wear an appearance as a badge of honor and so is born the original song “Hotline Hero” available in a number of genres. Listen on any device.

  For more about WGAW or to listen live 24/7, CLICK HERE.

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• Relay Friday

  

  The Greater Gardner Relay for Life is Friday June 13th and Saturday June 14th. Theme of 2025 is “Journey of Hope”.

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life is Friday June 13th

  Weather Outlook: Friday June 13^th looks like a very nice day with clouds and sunshine and a high of 76. Saturday is a bit iffy with showers in the morning and otherwise cooler with variable cloudiness and a temperature around 63.

  Timeline: Grounds open at about 3pm and some food trucks will already be there. The relay begins Friday at 6pm and goes overnight through Saturday at 2pm, a total of 20 hours. Location is the grounds of Mount Wachusett Community College at 444 Green Street, Gardner. Complete schedule, CLICK HERE. The Survivors Reception begins at 3:30pm and the Opening Ceremonies begin at 6pm. Various themed hours are scheduled from Friday evning, night and overnight all the way to Saturday afternoon

  Fundraising: As of 2 days before the relay, $117,000 out of a goal of $168,000 had been raised. For more information, CLICK HERE.

  Food vendors Friday June 13th: Big T’s Jerky House and Maddy’s Ice Cream arrive at 3pm. Kona Ice, Shane’s Hot Dogs, and Uncle Joey’s Canoli’s arrive at 4pm. All will be on hand to about 9 to 10pm. Food vendors Saturday June 14th include breakfast at 7am with the Westminster Cafe and Maddy’s and the rest of the above starting at about 10am.

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• GPS 6-11-25

  

  Exploring Gardner MA Public Schools Improvement Plan, Student Handbook, and Bullying Policy.

  Gardner Magazine explored in detail the Gardner Public Schools 3 year Improvement Plan, the Gardner Student Handbook, and the Gardner Public Schools Bullying Policy. Each is featured in a “Deep Dive” podcast. We also feature the actual documents for your review.

  Gardner Public Schools 3 Year Improvement Plan. Document, CLICK HERE. “Deep Dive” listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Public Student Handbook. Document, CLICK HERE. Unpack the crucial info with the “Deep Dive”. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY

  Gardner Public Schools Bullying Policy. Document, CLICK HERE. “Deep Dive” listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Beach Boys

  

  A Tribute to Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys

  Brian Wilson, founding member of the iconic group “The Beach Boys” passed away at the age of 82. In this Gardner Magazine review, we feature 12 of the best songs. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  More on the Beach boys, CLICK HERE.

  More specifically about the life of Brian Wilson, CLICK HERE.

  Official website of The Beach Boys, CLICK HERE.

  Our deepest condolences to fans, friends, and family.

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• Reading 2025

  

  Levi-Heywood Memorial Library to Kick Off Summer Reading Events

  The Levi-Heywood Memorial Library is kicking off its Summer Reading Program at Wednesday, June 25th. To view any of the images in this article in a larger view, just click on the image. Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” podcast explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  For more information at any time, visit the Levi Heywood Memorial Library website, CLICK HERE.

  PRINTABLE PDF of Summer Reading program, CLICK HERE

  

  

  

  

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• Flag Day

  

  Gardner Magazine releases the song “Flag Day” in honor of Flag Day, June 14, 2025

  By resolution of the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777, a flag of the United States was established. The resolution stated, “That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white. That the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

  Gardner Magazine is releasing this original patriotic song, “Flag Day” to help in the celebration. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Chorus from the song “Flag day celebrates the flag of our nation, it is a red, white, and blue occasion, to celebrate our American persuasion, Flag Day celebrates the flag of our nation,”

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• School Committee 6-9-25

  

  School Committee Meets, Terri Hillman Retires after 30 Years

  The Gardner MA School Committee met on June 9,2025. Following a positive Superintendent evaluation, the Gardner Superintendent was granted a 5% raise. However, Dr. Pellegrino said he would only accept a 2% raise, same as the teachers.

  Superintendent Pellegrino reviewed the District Improvement Plan Related Goals of 2024 to 2027 and spoke of the complete details including specifics on student behavior. The superintendent went through each section and commented on progress. The video of the meeting shows various charts. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  There was about 8 minutes of School Committee comments at the end of the meeting from all of the members. Recording Secretary Terri Hillman is retiring after 3 decades. It was her last meeting. This is what she said. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The School Committee meets next in September.

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• Event List

  Month	2025 Events at a Glance
  January	11th – Gardner Relay for Life First Lap. Visit Gardner Relay for Life page. Relay for Life 2025 is Friday June 13, 2025
  February	17th – Presidents Day – City Hall and various town offices are closed 17th – Random Act of Kindness Week 23rd – PACC Polish Drive Thru 11am to 2pm – Meals are 15 dollars 24th – Planned snow removal in Downtown Gardner with Parking Ban 7am to 3:30pm
  March	5th – Gardner Museum opens for the season, Website. 30th – Higher prices go in to effect on April 1 for Flower pot sponsorships in Gardner – only $150 until then. 31st – Dog License Registration closes in Gardner. Register dog before this date. License page
  April	6th – Projected opening day for Rietta Flea Market (weather permitting) Website 23rd – Earth Day Expo: Growing Business, Nurturing Fixtures Gardner PACC open to public 6-7:30pm – More details — all Chamber listed events 24th – Greater Gardner Health and Wellness Fair 5-7pm at Perry Auditorium in Gardner City Hall 26th – Saturday – Purple Paws Fundraiser 9:30am-noon at Pulaski Dog Park, Gardner Flyer, CLICK HERE.
  May	17th – first monthly Farmers Market for 2025 at Waterford Community Center. Website 31st – Saturday – Gardner City-Wide Yard Sale Article Email to submit addresses is: shopportunity5@yahoo.com
  June	13th/14th – Greater Gardner Relay for Life at MWCC. Complete Schedule. 19th: Juneteenth 21st – Small Business Saturday and Happy Birthday Gardner Festival. Website. 21st – Farmers Market at Waterford Community Center. Website 21st – Fireworks at PACC . Bands at PACC and Lithuanian Beach Club.
  Ongoing Music	Summer Concert Schedules: Monument Park – PACC – Lithuanian Beach Club
  July	11th – GAAMHA 4th Annual Golf Tournament 12th – 2025 Gardner Food Truck Festival
  August	6th: National Night Out
  September	27th – Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest – Downtown Gardner
  October	16th – Earth Day Expo: Growing Business, Nurturing Fixtures Gardner PACC open to public 6-7:30pm – More details — all Chamber listed events 31st: Halloween
  November	27th: Thanksgiving
  December	25th: Christmas Day
  Add Event	Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com

Odyssey of First Responders Page – Songs Saluting our First Responders – Direct Links to Individual songs –Singing the Blues – Men and Women in Blue — Firefighters with Pizzazz — EMT’s Who Rock — Ain’t No Ordinary Public Works — Lifeguards We Need You — Men and Women of Our Forces –

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  Spotlight on Communities Greater Gardner MA

  Gardner MA is known as the Chair City, and the other communities covered by Gardner Magazine all have something special: Ashburnham– Town of Lakes, Ashby – smallest town, Athol-the Tool Town, Barre – Town of Patriots, Gardner – The Chair City, Hardwick – Oldest Fair, Hubbardston -1015 above sea level, New Salem – Home of Quabbin Reservoir, Oakham – Coldbrook Springs, Orange – Home of Peace Statue, Petersham – Conservation, Phillipston – Historic Town Center, Princeton – Mt. Wachusett, Royalston – Forests and Falls, Rutland – Geographic Center of MA, Templeton – Town of 4 Villages, Warwick – Mt. Grace & Forest, Westminster – Historic Places, Winchendon – the Toy Town.
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  Gardner Magazine has a new page highlighting Public Meetings Calendars. Most communities list all upcoming meetings in handy formats. Some communities either have few meetings or are not as comprehensive. Being aware of Public Meetings is a great way to be involved in your community.

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  Click on the name of a town for an EASY Google Events Search for events taking place in that community. ASHBURNHAM – ASHBY – ATHOL – BARRE – GARDNER – HARDWICK – HUBBARDSTON – NEW SALEM – OAKHAM – ORANGE – PETERSHAM – PHILLIPSTON – PRINCETON – ROYALSTON – RUTLAND – TEMPLETON – WARWICK – WESTMINSTER – WINCHENDON. A great tool to quickly find out what’s going on in the Greater Gardner region.

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• Gardner Tops 21K

  

  Gardner MA Population Statistics

  According to the U.S. Census, Gardner has a population of 21,287.    Median Household Income is about $50,000.   Those with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher is close to 1 in 5.   More than half of the population is employed.  98% have health care coverage.   There’s 9,411 total housing units with 691 vacant according to the Census Bureau.  Gardner’s median estimated age of 41 is slightly above the median age in Massachusetts.  One statistic to note: Average Gardner commute time is just under ½ hr. so there’s room for more local employers.  For the complete census data, click here.

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  Visit Downtown Gardner Video Released

  To celebrate a great place to shop, Gardner Magazine has released a Downtown Gardner MA video. Watch it in full HD. CLICK HERE.

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