News Around Greater Gardner MA
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This page carries our 40 most recent stories. For the next 120 stories, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine is also Gardner Herald, and a newspaper of general circulation for Greater Gardner MA. Easy URL for Mobile is 3MX.us —- Jump to News of Nearby Communities — LIVE TV NEWS News & Events: News@GardnerMagazine.com
Listen to any or all of 32 versions of the Chair City Christmas Song. Traditional, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Country, Reggae, Classical, Blues, Classical …more Chair City Christmas page, CLICK HERE. FREE DOWNLOAD too!
From its founding, the City of Gardner has always been a faith-based community. May the Lord Jesus Christ always be with you, your family, and your friends. God Bless You. CLICK FOR PAGE.
- Oktoberfest 2025
Gardner Downtown Event to be More Fabulous than Ever
The focus of the September 27, 2025 event is shifting completely to the 20th Annual Gardner Oktoberfest and 15th annual Gardner Chair Luge. This year’s theme is Beetlejuice.
We have a complete schedule of events in our complete article on this FABULOUS Downtown Gardner event, CLICK HERE or scroll down the page to the August 14th article.
It’s an all day event of music, food, and fun starting at 10am. And with it being the 20th year milestone of the Oktoberfest, the event is expected to be more fabulous than ever.
- Hotline 8-23-25
Steve Wendell has offered to provide a 15 minute recorded segment for each of the candidates in the upcoming election even if they don’t have opposition. Wendell states that the segment will be presented exactly as received and will not be edited.
WGAW Hotline Radio Packed with Information on August 23, 2025
Listen to the entire program on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 8-23-25 The August 23rd WGAW Hotline Radio show featured a lengthy update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson in which he explained the challenges of retaining good employees, the reason for the salary study, and the meeting with the City Council on non-union salaries. The Mayor explained unions in the City, went over job openings with the City, and announced some new hires. The discussion continued on educational programs, preparing for snow, the Greenwood Pool, and the paving list. Steve Wendell spoke about Criminal Illegal Aliens and featured a segment on Boston Mayor Michelle Wu on cooperation with ICE.
In the 2nd Hour: Steve Wendell read the detailed Gardner Paving List. Werner Poegel provided a commentary on learning with back to school arriving soon. Steve Wendell reminded listeners that WGAW will be covering Gardner High School Friday Night Football in the upcoming season. The show closed with a Town Crier podcast with Stephanie Lahtinen of Westminster.
- Original Song – Social Media Ditch
Gardner Magazine releases “Social Media Ditch” an original song about falling for lies
The original song “Social Media Ditch” features some really great piano and saxophone sections. Just for fun, there’s 4 different versions: Pop Rock, Pop Funk, Rock, and Modern Jazz. Enjoy any or all on any device, CLICK PLAY.
POP ROCK – Social Media Ditch POP FUNK – Social Media Ditch ROCK – Social Media Ditch MODERN JAZZ – Social Media Ditch
- Templeton Municipal Light
Templeton Municipal Light GM Refutes Bennett Claims
The General Manager of Templeton Municipal Light, John Driscoll, took the unusual step of responding publicly to claims made on Social media by Jeff Bennett. According to Driscoll, Bennett inaccurately stated “every water customer pays $353.64 per year just to receive a water bill, plus cost of water used.” Driscoll writes “The $353.64 is actually the quarterly customer charge” and he explains how those funds are spent on paying off capital costs. See the entire response on pdf, CLICK HERE. Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and Chair Lady analyzing the situation, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE -Templeton Water 8-22-25 Templeton Municipal Light website, CLICK HERE.
- Paving Update 8-22-25
Increased Funding Means More Paving in Gardner – A Paving List from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
Gardner Mayor Nicholson released the following statement on August 22, 2025: “The City of Gardner is pleased to announce that the following streets are set to be re-paved in 2025. (see provided graphic below)
Thanks to increased funding from the Commonwealth, Gardner was able to add additional streets to the list to be repaved. For Fiscal Year 2026, Gardner will receive $1,150,212.17 through the Commonwealth’s Chapter 90 program—more than double the $525,266.41 received in Fiscal Year 2025, marking a 119% increase.
In addition to Chapter 90 funds, the City secured multiple state grants to expand its infrastructure program: Municipal Paving Grant – covering the full cost of repaving Pearl Street. MassTrails Grant – funding the paving of Crystal Lake Drive. City Contribution – allocating $363,617 of municipal funds toward these projects.
Street selections are based on the City’s annual paving priority list, developed by the Department of Public Works and Engineering Department. Streets are evaluated on a range of factors, including overall condition, presence of sidewalks, number of residential and business properties, traffic volume, and the length of time since the last paving. Where sidewalks already exist, they will also be reconstructed alongside the roadway.
The City is currently working with its on-call paving contractor, Mass Broken Stone, to schedule these projects for the fall season, pending weather conditions.
“With this plan, we will have paved over one-third of Gardner’s roads in just the last five years,” said Mayor Michael Nicholson. “I’m proud of the investments we’ve made into our infrastructure and grateful to our state partners for helping us achieve this milestone. There is still more to do, and we are committed to pursuing every available resource to continue strengthening Gardner’s roadways and pedestrian infrastructure for the future.”
Streets on the list are Green, Beech, Cross, Pearl, Stephanie Drive, Heywood, Sylvan Road, James, Reservoir, Glazier, Highland, Crystal Lake Drive, Abbot Avenue, Chatham, Lakeview Drive, Plymouth, Ida Hill, and Elizabeth
- This Week 8-22-25
Our Weekly News Magazine: “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday August 22, 2025
Listen to our Weekly News Magazine: “This Week in the Chair City”, August 22, 2025 edition on any device, CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 8-22-25 Drought and Fires — ZBA Goof up — Helping the Homeless — Hazard Mitigation — Gardner Airport – Non-Union Salaries at City Council — First Day of School — Gardner Museum — Greater Gardner Weather Center —- City of Gardner Job Openings —- Original Song Releases — Upcoming Meetings in the City of Gardner
Contact Gardner Magazine via News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324
- Fire and Drought
For more information from Drought.gov on Fire and Drought, see various maps, CLICK HERE.
For up to date drought conditions in Gardner MA at any time, please visit this page, CLICK HERE.
Greater Gardner Drought Outlook: No Drought – But: Wildfires in Western United States
The Greater Gardner MA weather this year has been somewhat of an oxymoron with the 30th driest June on record over the past 131 years and the 32nd wettest year to date over the past 131 years as measured from January to June 2025. Right now, no people (0%) in Worcester County are affected by drought. However, from time to time, air quality will vary due to wildfires in Canada.
If you travel to the Western United States, you’ll find many large fires. Our graphic shows current conditions. Gardner Magazine’s Chair Man and Chair Lady have a “Deep Dive” explaining conditions in the United States. It highlights current fire incidents, environmental factors contributing to drought and fire risk, forecasts for future conditions (including heat and precipitation), and various impacts including the impact of wildfire smoke on air quality. An informative report. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE: Fire and Drought 8-20-25
- Zoning 8-20-25
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Zoning Board of Appeals 8-19-25 Procedural Goof-up taints Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting on August 19, 2025
The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals is composed of 5 members with a majority vote of 4 needed to approve an item. (3 does not meet 2/3 requirement) However, at the meeting of August 19, 2025, Chairman Ray Lafond brought the matter of 163-165 Pine Street to a vote and announced a 3 to 3 split decision which was promptly questioned by Attorney Christine Tree who appeared on behalf of petitioner Jonathan Bombaci. The ZBA took another vote and the result was announced as 3 yeas to 2 against. However, rather than being approved, the matter is denied because a 2/3 vote or 4 out of 5 is needed for approval. Attorney Tree stated she would be meeting with her client for the next steps. Listen to that segment of the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Vote and Revote 8-29-25 The reallocation of six parking spaces within an existing lot at Hannaford Supermarket was approved.
Unauthorized Driveway? The Laperriere Complaint
The meeting concludes with a citizen complaint by Colleen Laperriere who alleges among numerous things that her neighbor is building an unpermitted driveway. The discussion lasted 16 minutes. Laperriere was advised to draft a formal letter to various departments. Here what Laperriere said on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Colleen Laperriere before ZBA 8-29-25
- North Star Family Services
North Star Family Services has a website, CLICK HERE. — Brochure, CLICK HERE. — One-sheet on Endowment Campaign, CLICK HERE. For those who want to help there is a wish list, CLICK HERE. There’s a donation page with a secure donation link and a mailing address, CLICK HERE.
Helping Homeless Families – An Interview with Jon Hogue of North Star Family Services – and the Gardner Mayor’s Local Efforts
Gardner Magazine had the honor of speaking with Dr. Jon Hogue, the President & CEO of North Star Family Services, Inc., a Leominster non-profit which helps the homeless every single day. Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.
North Star Family Services – Interview with Jon Hogue 8-20-25 North Star Family Services has been around over 20 years and serves families “that are struggling, low-income, and homeless families with children. Families that don’t have the security of having a home. And if you don’t have a home, you don’t have food security, because you don’t have a fridge.”
Jon Hogue says that the homeless crisis is growing every year because wages aren’t keeping up with costs and rental costs or buying a home have skyrocketed to ridiculous levels. North Star has its shelter in Leominster on Main Street (shown in our graphic). Hogue describes it as a family resource center and we go over all the details.
Under our graphic, we are providing links to the website, a brochure, a wish list, a donation page link, and a one sheet on the 12 month endowment campaign. A donor is willing to match donations up to $750,000. The endowment would be used to help sustain the organization for the future.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has been working with Jon Hogue to try to get a similar program for the homeless up and running in Gardner.
Gardner Efforts with Mayor Michael Nicholson
Gardner Mayor Nicholson works behind the scenes in order to help many non-profits.. Right now, the Mayor has been talking with Jon Hogue about how to better help the homeless in Gardner. This is what Jon Hogue said, “So, I’ve gotten to know the Mayor over the last couple of years. I’m actually a resident of Gardner myself, so I care about the families all over, including my home city, so I’ve been working with the Mayor about trying to lay some groundwork to try to do some affordable, supportive, subsidized housing in Gardner. And we’re trying to identify the means to do that because there’s a lot that goes onto it, into it rather, you know, you have to have land or a building that’s suitable, you have to have funding to renovate or construct the building, and then you have to have ongoing operational costs that are very hard to come by, so you’ve got to have a mechanism or a strategy for that. So, he and I are having regular conversations around this, and I’m pretty confident that we will have something in the works soon, but like I said here at North Star, for our Journey Home Program that we just finished, it took seven years to get it done. So, this isn’t an overnight solution, but if we start now, the sooner we’ll be done. So, since we finished our Journey Home Program, or housing project, we learned a lot as an agency. We also learned how funding could potentially work, so we’re ahead of the game when we’re looking at trying to do something in Gardner, and, you know, the mayor’s been very supportive of what North Star is doing and would like us to do something in Gardner, so that’s the plan.”
- 25 Main Water
Water Line Takes a Second Day
Pleasant Street in Downtown Gardner is closed again for water line work on August 20, 2025.
Gardner City Hall posted, “Please be advised:Pleasant Street will be closed again today Wednesday, Aug. 20th between Parker Street and City Hall Avenue as private crews install the new water line tie-ins for the Brilla Coffee location and new apartments being constructed at 25 Main Street. The sidewalks remain open to pedestrian travel to businesses in the area while the work is being done. Thank you for your attention and your patience.”
- Accident Route 2
Gardner and Westminster Fire Departments Respond to Route 2 Accident
On August 19, 2025, Gardner and Westminster Fire Departments responded to a motor vehicle accident which resulted in Route 2 being closed for about a half hour while the accident was cleared.
Gardner Fire Department posted, “Earlier today, Group 1 firefighters, assisted by Westminster Fire, responded to reports of a motor vehicle accident on Route 2 westbound. Crews arrived on scene to find a two-vehicle accident, with one vehicle that had overturned. EMS transported both occupants to local hospitals. The incident resulted in a temporary closure of Route 2, lasting approximately 30 minutes.”
- Non-Profits Interview
Supporting Non-Profits in Gardner – Interview with the Mayor
Gardner Magazine recently spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about how the City and the Mayor have supported non-profits in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Interview – Non-Profits in Gardner Mayor Nicholson spoke about the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, the Gardner CAC, Growing Places, Gardner Emergency Housing Mission, and also working with North Star Families regarding the homeless, Heywood Hospital, organizations regarding substance abuse prevention and domestic violence prevention, the Health and Wellness Fair, and the faith-based community.
For AUDIO interviews (and complete text of questions and answers) on about 3 dozen local issues visit the Fiscal 6 Project at Fiscal6.com.
- Airport Deep Dive
Updates – Research – Tech – Creative Ideas at Gardner Airport
There’s so much more than you might expect going on at the Gardner Airport. Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady pulling back the curtain on the Gardner Airport. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – The Gardner Airport Learn about the difficulty of managing the complex infrastructure, battling nature, vegetation management, mapping and flagging the wetlands, pioneering new tech, and the MIT Project, dealing with an intermittent gate issue, navigating financial waters, and creative ideas. Learn about the major milestone of being able to submit the closeout report for the runway reconstruction to the FAA.
- City Council 8-18-25
Gardner Magazine has a complete analysis of this meeting with a “Deep Dive” from the Chair Man and Chair Lady who go over the meeting and explain Gardner’s strategic move to keep talent. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Gardner Salary Showdown Non-Union Salaries Topic of 93 Minute City Council Meeting
The Gardner City Council met on August 18, 2025 for the purpose of discussing non-union salaries. Council President George Tyros recused himself from the proceedings as he has a family member who would be impacted. The Councilors elected Craig Cormer President Pro-Tem. The packet for the meeting is 774 pages on pdf, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Gardner City Council 8-19-25 We also have a “Deep Dive” analysis of this meeting. Look under the graphic. During the meeting, the Mayor told the Councilors that Veterans Services Director Cory Hasselmann has accepted a position with the City of Leominster after being offered a $100,000 salary there. Councilors asked many questions about all aspects of the issue, with the Mayor answering questions for well over an hour. The Council will have to vote on the matter in the next month or so to avoid delaying the setting of the tax rate which is based on the City budget including approved supplemental spending.
The meeting ended with a motion by Councilor Brad Heglin to send to the Finance Committee for review and report. Motion was approved unanimously. The desired outcome is for the City Council to approve measures which make it easy to retain employees and hire new employees by paying competitive salaries. Once the City Council gets the report from the Finance Committee it is expected to act on the recommendations.
- Child in Car
Editorial: A Stark Reminder to Never Leave a Child Alone in a Car
An incident August 18, 2025 at Heywood Hospital in Gardner MA is a stark reminder to never leave a child alone in a car. A vehicle was stolen with the child inside, but luckily for the child, the thief stopped and let the child out of the car. Police tracked the vehicle using cell phone data and initially were in pursuit until it became unsafe due to the way the thief was driving. The vehicle was found in Lowell. The thief has not yet been caught.
On a similar subject: Leaving a child, elderly adult, or your pet dog or cat in a hot vehicle for even a few minutes can result in tragedy. Don’t do it. If you can’t take your child in with you, make arrangements ahead of time to have your child stay safely with a friend or relative. As far as your dog or cat, leave your dog or cat safely at home in air-conditioned comfort.
- Beaches 8-18-25
Some Area Beaches Closed Due to Bacterial Exceedance
Area beaches closed include: Damon Pond in Ashby, Eagle Lake in Holden, Lunenburg Town Beach, Beamans Pond Day Use and Campground in Templeton, Pearl Hill Pond in Townsend, Crow Hill Pond in Westminster, and Lake Dennison Day Use and North Camp in WInchendon. For the complete list of more than 4 dozen beaches, CLICK HERE.
Bacterial exceedance means the measured levels have surpassed the acceptable limits set by health and safety regulations. These limits are established to protect public health, as high levels of bacteria can pose a risk of illness, particularly gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes, and ear or eye infections, according to health agencies. Some other beaches outside of this area are closed for a harmful cyanobacterial bloom.
- Back to School
Gardner Magazine releases a short, but fun original song “Back to School”
Back to School is just around the corner.
Listen to the song on any device, CLICK PLAY.
POP ROCK – Back to School From the song: “Eat a good breakfast so the brain’s in gear, nutrition sets you up for a great year,Get plenty of sleep to rest that noggin, no use in class if you’re head’s foggin…so rest that noggin…(rest that noggin)….not gonna message when I’m in class, better lock that phone under glass, gonna keep my eye on the ball, so I’m in college next fall…(college next fall)…college next fall…Let’s go back to school, these days school is cool…”
- Gardner Museum Fall 2025
On the web, visit the Gardner Museum website, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Museum – Fall Lecture Series with a “Deep Dive”
The Gardner Museum located at 28 Pearl Street in Gardner MA has announced an impressive Fall Lecture Series. CLICK FOR PRINTABLE PDF. Gardner Magazine’s Chair Man and Chair Lady cover it all in a “Deep Dive”. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Museum Fall Lecture Series 2025 The Fall-Winter Sports Exhibit kicks off the season on September 3rd from 1 to 4pm featuring displays of area high school sports. That exhibit will run until December 19th. Other exhibits include: Sports Cheats —- Faith, Family, and Heritage on Song — Sports Exhibit Grand Opening Event with the MWCC Mascots on September 13th — History and Legends Through Song, Veterans Roundtable, Unveiling Harrison Cady, Madness in Crowds, KIds’ Art Session, and the Averill House Uncorked – Wine, Wisdom, Dry Edition. The 20th Anniversary Festival of Trees begins on November 12th. For dates and times see the printable pdf.
- Weather Center Upgrade
Gardner Magazine Upgrades Greater Gardner Weather Center
Gardner Magazine is pleased to announce that the Greater Gardner Weather Center has been upgraded. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Weather Forecasts from multiple sources including Forecast 7, Meteo Blue, Tomorrow Weather, Booked.net, Meteored, Weather Rx, and a detailed forecast from the National Weather Service.
- Fire Risk for multiple locations including Athol, Gardner, Ashburnham, Westminster, Fitchburg, and Worcester.
- Air Quality and Pollen Conditions
- Interactive Weather Map from Meteo Blue
- National Weather Service Map
- Worcester County Drought Conditions
The Greater Gardner Weather Center can be found right here.
- Gardner Brain Drain
Gardner Brain Drain – City Council to Discuss – and our DEEP DIVE
The Gardner City Council has a meeting of the whole on Monday, August 18, 2025 to discuss what’s in the 774 page agenda concerning non-union compensation. Here is that huge agenda, CLICK HERE. Gardner is trying to agree on a way to modify its pay schedule for non-union employees for greater retention of current employees and easier recruitment for the future. The Deep Dive analysis shows Gardner intends to pay at least the average pay for a particular job, so the City doesn’t lag behind, but doesn’t pay too much either. Changes would be in the form of an ordinance passed by the City Council. The City Council meeting is Monday, August 18, 2025.
Listen to a discussion, explanation, and interpretation with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device. We’re calling it “The Gardner Brain Drain – Keeping Key Employees.” CLICK PLAY.
The Gardner Brain Drain – Keeping Key Employees Gardner Magazine will have the AUDIO of the Gardner City Council meeting when available.
- Basic City Services
For all of the AUDIO interviews (plus text of all questions and answers included) from all 3 dozen categories of the Fiscal 6 Project, please visit Fiscal6.com, CLICK HERE. — Also, there’s more on this topic at MIchaelNicholsonMA.com, CLICK HERE.
Basic City Services – An interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
As part of the Fiscal 6 Project, Gardner Magazine spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about his vision for Basic City Services and what has been improved since 2020. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Basic City Services, – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson The Mayor specifically mentions the public’s online access to services and a desire to continue expanding interaction with the pubic, the work on revamping the ordinance code, the Prevention Coordinator, and the Domestic Violence Advocate. The mayor also stated there are “different projects that we have in the pipeline right now that I’m really excited for that are too early to announce right now but I think they will make some big differences around the City.” More at the Mayor’s campaign website, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson stated, “I think there’s a lot of work that we’ve been able to do just to make it so it’s easier for people to interact with City Hall. Expanding our online permitting system so that if you need you know the services of City Hall you can get those from the comfort of your home on a 24-7 basis rather than only when City Hall has working hours. We’ve increased our veteran service offerings not just for Gardner but for the region by adding two additional staff members to that department and then taking on the veteran services for not just Gardner but also the towns of Ashburnham, Westminster, Ashburnham, Winchendon, Princeton, and Ashby. And we’ve got other communities that are also looking at joining our district here too. And it’s one of those things that these smaller towns didn’t have the resources to have a full-time veterans agent. …. Our outreach services that we’ve done through our Prevention Coordinator and Domestic Violence Advocate, And then just some of the ways that we interact with the public here too, cutting back the red tape that we have in our ordinance code and going back and looking through those and the big administrative legislation package that we did last year. There’s a lot that’s been done and there’s a lot that we still plan to do and I’m really happy with how we’ve been able to increase our access to the public, our transparency to the public as a result of that and really work towards setting us up so people know what we’re doing in City Hall each and every day on their behalf.” For more, listen to the interview.
- Hotline 8-16-25
WGAW Hotline Radio of Saturday, August 16, 2025
Listen to the entire show on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 8-16-25 1st Hour: First guest was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Topics: The election process. A question about a call re rodents. — Greenwood Pool update — Chapter 90 Road Repair — Green Street progress — the Sludge Landfill — Gardner Oktoberfest — Sports Camps Starting Up — Opening up Schools —- 20th Oktoberfest Report with Werner Poegel — Downtown Commentary with Werner Poegel “A Place to Enjoy” — The record shop in Downtown Gardner, Straightaway Records —
2nd Hour: Steve Wendell on the Morning News and News Throughout the Day —- Wendell report on Criminal illegal aliens in the United States and an experience he had at the laundromat — Report: Crime in Washington, D.C. — podcast with Stephanie Lahtinen of Westminster on various events and local issues and meetings.
- Lab of Lies
Lies are still being cooked up on a Rogue Gardner Facebook Group. But, the public is tired of the antics.
Gardner Magazine is releasing an original song “Lab of Lies.” Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Lab of Lies EDITORIAL: Rogue Gardner Facebook Group Steps up Lab of Lies
The “Lab of Lies” was stepped up today on that Gardner Rogue Facebook Group with some ridiculous salacious posts. The group admins are Paul DeMeo and Kimberly Blake who are allowing anonymous posts with awful, false allegations against local public officials. A former friend of Blake messaged me that she thinks the post was made by Blake, but we can’t confirm this. No matter who wrote it, she has a responsibility to see that it is removed. As if that wasn’t enough, the group had a post the other day which called out any contributors to current Mayor Michael Nicholson and then, according to complaint posts made in other groups, promptly retaliated and removed those individuals from the DeMeo-Blake group – So much for believing in democracy. Ironically, after an unprecedented period of success over the last 5 years, Gardner Mayor Nicholson enjoys wide public support. This publisher drove around the City of Gardner today on several streets while taking photos. I saw over 2 dozen signs for Mayor Nicholson, 6 signs for Kimberly Blake, and 1 sign for Ann DeBarros in my short trek. As far as contributions, the Mayor has 33 times the support with reported donations of $18,610.69 versus Blake at $559.10. That support of course includes local businesses and local residents which is a good thing, not a bad thing as portrayed by Blake and DeMeo. In my opinion, Blake should be ashamed of herself. A campaign should be about local issues, not a forum for making up stuff just because you’re mad the public doesn’t support you enough and businesses don’t support you enough. —- And as far as Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, the Fiscal 6 Project chronicles more than 3 dozen categories of Gardner’s documented success over the last 5 years. CLICK HERE.
- Supplemental FY25
Governor Healey Files Supplemental Budget Bill
The actual Fiscal Year 2025 ended on June 30, 2025 but the state is still dealing with it. On Thursday, August 14, 2025, Governor Maura Healey filed a supplemental budget bill to strengthen Massachusetts’ financial standing amid national economic uncertainty and end Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) with a balanced budget. The legislation appropriates $2.45 billion in gross spending, at a net cost to the state of $947 million after revenue offsets, to address deficiencies and meet time-sensitive budget needs as Massachusetts closes the books on FY25. Complete Press Release, CLICK HERE.
In a “Deep Dive” the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the bill. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Supplemental Budget FY 25
- This Week 8-15-25
Our Weekly News Magazine: “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday August 15, 2025
Listen to our Weekly News Magazine: “This Week in the Chair City”, August 15, 2025 edition on any device,, CLICK PLAY.
This Week August 15, 2025 Reports this week on Downtown Gardner – Gardner Fire Department – Celebrating Social Security – Gardner Oktoberfest – 90 Degree Weather tips – Gardner Infrastructure – Hazard Mitigation – First Day of School – Song Releases – Upcoming Meetings in the City of Gardner – Events –
Contact Gardner Magazine via News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324
- Oktoberfest – Chair Luge 2025
Gardner Downtown Event Will Hit a Milestone
Saturday, September 27, 2025 is the 20th annual Oktoberfest, Party in the Street, in Downtown Gardner. Established in 2006 by Gardner Ale House owner Rick Walton, the event draws hundreds and hundreds each year. A few years after the start of the event, the Chair Luge was born and this famous event is celebrating year number 15. 2025 will be the 15th Annual Chair Luge. This year’s Chair Luge Theme is Beetlejuice. There will be live music all day long. The event is sponsored by Moon Hill Brewing Company.
Schedule of Events: 10am: Run for a Beer, 11:00am: Hofbrauhaus Bavarian German Folk Band starts playing, 11:30am: Keg Tap with singing of Ein Prosit, 1pm: Men and Women’s Stein Holding Competition (Hold a 5lb mug of Oktoberfest Lager for as long as you can) 2pm: Chair Luge (a chair with wheels and some kind of brakes is all you need), 3pm: Cornhole Tournament. 3:00pm: Live Music on the Stage starting with Chris Fitz, 4:30pm Live Music with Disco Lemonade, 6:15pm: Music with Midnight Riders.
The street party ends at 8pm. However,the pub at Moon Hill Brewing Company and the Gardner Ale House stay open a little longer. The Gardner Ale House is expected to once again have authentic German sausages, sauerkraut, potato salad, and soft pretzels. And of course, there will be Italian sausages, hamburgers, hot dogs, and pizza. If you go inside the Gardner Ale House, you can even get Wiener Schnitzel and other German delicacies. More information, CLICK HERE.
The event used to have a Festivals component sponsored by Gardner Square Two, but the last year of that was 2024. All Downtown Gardner businesses are at least expected to be open regular hours with some choosing to be open extended hours and/or have special things going on. Gardner Magazine will add additional information as to any participating non-profits and/or vendors as that becomes available.
Downtown Gardner is “The Place to Enjoy.” See Downtown Gardner Business Profile and Business List, CLICK HERE. See Article with Downtown Gardner song, CLICK HERE
- Fire Department 8-13-25
Gardner Fire Department Celebrates New Vehicles with an entourage of officials
The celebration was held at Gardner Fire Department Headquarters on August 13, 2025. Federal, State, and City funds paid for 3 vehicles and various equipment. The check being held represents the Federal share of close to 2 million dollars. Congresswoman Lori Trahan is holding the ceremonial check.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson posted: “Yesterday, Congresswoman Lori Trahan joined us in Gardner to celebrate the new vehicles Gardner was able to purchase for the Gardner Fire Department. Using $1,800,410.14 of federal grant funds, we were able to purchase a new heavy rescue truck, fire engine, and ambulance for the department. These vehicles were then fitted out with new equipment purchased with $35,556.48 of state grant funds and $175,000 from City funds that the City Council voted to approve the proposal for sent by my office. Aside from the vehicles and the equipment on them, over the last few years, we’ve purchased new SCBA oxygen tanks, vehicle accident rescue equipment, EMS protective jackets, and more. The investments we’ve made in our fire department provide our firefighters with the tools they need to be safe in their jobs and efficient and effective in their work serving the community, and will make an impact on the Chair City for years to come!”
- SSA – Senior Center
Gardner Senior Center Celebrates 90th Anniversary of Social Security
At an event held on August 13, 2025, attendees of the Gardner Senior Center were joined by various officials to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Social Security along with representatives from AARP.
Gardner Senior Center posted this statement: “What an exciting afternoon we had celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Social Security with AARP Massachusetts and The Greater Gardner/Chair City Chapter 3237 of AARP! We had a full house and were honored to be joined by some incredible guests, led by AARP Massachusetts State Director Jennifer Benson. A huge thank you to our speakers and special guests: Congresswoman Lori Trahan – Senator Peter Durant – Representative Jonathan Zlotnik – Mayor Michael Nicholson – City Councilors Alek Dernalowicz & Calvin Brooks. And the amazing team from the Social Security Administration: Brenton Allen, Jess Matthews, and Marilenin Vasquez. Special thanks to the dedicated staff and volunteers from AARP Massachusetts who helped make the event such a success – from setup and breakdown, to video coverage and lighting setup, and even providing the cake! Here’s to 90 years of Social Security!”
- Attack of the Radio People
Gardner Magazine Releases a mid summer smash: “Attack of the Radio People”
Just imagine if an alien race of “radio people” came to earth with the intent of converting the population. But they met people they didn’t expect, the bickering politicians in Washington D.C. and rejected colonization. The only time the politicians saved the world. Listen to this original fun song “Attack of the Radio People” on any device, CLICK PLAY.
ROCK-FUNK- Attack of the Radio People From the song: “The radio people came to take over the world, everyone in fear as their blinking dials swirled, one was all talk and the other was all news, got in a scuffle and gave each dial a bruise….They came with their heads of dials aglow, But rejected our planet for being out of the know…(out of the know)…”
- Farmers Market August 16th
80’s and Mostly Sunny Weather Expected for Saturday Gardner Farmers Market
The Gardner Farmers Market is Saturday August 16, 2025 at the Waterford Community Center with a 9:30am opening. The market is scheduled to be open until 1pm.
Gardner Farmers Market posted, “Stop by the market and shop local farm fresh produce, artisan goods, listen to music by Drew Paxton, stop by the Levi Heywood Library table for a kids craft. SNAP accepted at participating vendors and for information Ascentria – SNAP-ed will be available to answer questions.”
You’ll find locally grown produce including top quality fruit and veggies, fresh cut locally grown flowers from multiple vendors, local bakeries with lots of choices, and a wide variety of local meat, eggs, honey, maple syrup, and more. Unique locally made crafts available include soaps, cutting boards, fibers, pottery, and more. The monthly market will be held until October at this location with a Harvest Fair held in November at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall.
- American Flag in Gardner
CLICK either image for a larger view.
American Flag is Proudly on Display in Gardner MA
These Gardner Photos were taken over the last couple of years as the American Flag has been proudly waving in Gardner. Whether it’s a public event, a public building, or a private building, you are likely to see a beautiful flag. We show the flag flying at a Press Conference, Gardner City Hall, the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, South Gardner, multiple places in Downtown Gardner, the Senior Center, the High School, and the Police Station.
On July 4, 2026, we celebrate America’s 250th.
- Keeping Cool
Keeping Cool in 90 Degree Weather
With temperatures at 90 degrees again, here are some tips to keep cool. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, as these can dehydrate you. Consider sports drinks to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat. Dress for the Heat: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Consider wearing a hat to protect your head and face from the sun. Seek Cool Environments: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces like libraries, shopping malls, or community centers or a cooling center if you don’t have your own air conditioning. When you buy an air conditioner for at home, get one with a good energy rating so you are more likely to use it when you need it. When outside: Seek shade whenever possible. Consider water-based activities like swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding to be keep cool while staying active. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself if you’re feeling unwell, and recognize the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Cool Down: Take cool showers or baths. Apply cool, wet cloths to your neck, wrists, or forehead. Consider using a spray bottle with cool water. Immerse your hands and feet in cool water. Other Tips: Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun. Think of others: Check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, children, and those with health conditions, who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. And very important: Never, ever leave children, elderly individuals, or pets in a parked vehicle as temperatures can rise rapidly and dangerously, quickly causing death.
- Downtown Gardner 8-12-25
Downtown Gardner Progress Announcement Released 8-12-25
The City of Gardner released a short announcement from Downtown Gardner featuring 4 speakers: State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, Community Development and Planning Director Jason Stevens, and City Councilor Brad Heglin. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Downtown Gardner Progress Announcement 8-12-25
Both State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the public and private investments in Downtown Gardner. The Mayor complimented Community Development and Planning Director Jason Stevens who also spoke about assessing current and future needs in the City of Gardner. City Councilor Brad Heglin spoke on behalf of the entire Gardner City Council on the progress in the City.State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik stated: “Good afternoon. I’m very happy to be out here in front of City Hall in historic downtown Gardner to mark a milestone. The city and the state government has partnered on the redevelopment of downtown Gardner for many years now. In the last five years, that’s really hit the accelerator due to the leadership of Mayor Nicholson, but tens of millions of dollars have been invested from the city, the state, and importantly, and the biggest contributor, the private sector, in buying and repurposing and redeveloping buildings in downtown, bringing them back to commercial use, and importantly, back on the tax rolls...These these projects include infrastructure improvements, improvements to the buildings themselves, additions of new park spaces in downtown, and the biggest single one, the redevelopment of Rear Main, which the city and state have been working on for well over a decade now. But with the demolition of the Rome Square block, nearly completing the redevelopment of the corridor from Route 2 into that entrance of downtown, we thought this was an important milestone to mark and take stock of the improvements that we’ve been able to make through this partnership in downtown Gardner. And we’re nowhere near done. I wouldn’t even say that we’re halfway done. There’s a lot of work to go and a lot more investment to bring to downtown.”
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson stated: “…We really have a lot to be proud of the work that we’ve been able to accomplish together in Gardner, and a team with our legislative delegation, the City Council, our team here in City Hall. Really, this has been a full press effort to make sure that Gardner is continuing to move forward, particularly in our downtown. I think of where we’re standing today, and just behind me, is a building that four years ago owed the city of over $600,000 in back taxes that now is currently under construction to be redeveloped. And that’s just one example of the work that we’ve been doing in the downtown….And that’s been the biggest goal that we’ve been having here, is breathing new life into the area, breathing a new sense of community, a new sense of pride, a new spirit of home right here in the middle of our city….You look at the projects that are on this map, and looking at what we’ve invested into the city through our grant funds from the state and federal government through our own funding that we’ve been able to provide for these projects. And then you match that up with the building permits that have happened over the last three, four years. For the private sector projects that are happening in the downtown, our investment has been matched by over $31 million of private investment here in the downtown, and that’s right from the data that we get from the source, from the permit applications that we get here too. We’ve shown that when we invest in ourselves, we set the stage and set the example for others to follow and give them a reason to invest in us too. And that’s really been the motto that’s driven us over the course of the last year.“
Director of Community Development and Planning Jason Stevens stated: “As the Director of Community Development and Planning, I want to take a moment to express my genuine appreciation for the support and partnership that has helped us move forward with so many meaningful projects here in Gardner. From infrastructure investments, land redevelopments, to thoughtful, long-range planning initiatives, my department is always striving to not only address today’s needs, but also laying the groundwork for a stronger, vibrant, and more resilient Gardner.…I want to also take a quick highlight for my incredible team behind these efforts, because I am not a one-man department. They are constantly bringing fresh insight and energy to the table, and I believe Gardner is a better place with them behind many of the projects that you’ve seen progressing.
City Councilor Brad Heglin stated: “It’s a real honor and pleasure to speak today on behalf of the entire City Council and Council President George Tyros. I do want to take a moment to thank Rep Zlotnik. I think his partnership at the state level has been so important for everything we’re doing here in the City of Gardner, and our changes not only in securing grants or earmarks, but also in making sure that private entities who are investing in Gardner can navigate state departments and bureaucracy to bring these products to fruition. And of course, our Mayor too. When he assumed office five years ago, he brought a lot of needed vision and energy that I think we were sorely lacking in the city, and we saw those sort of seeds of growth be planted and nurtured, and they’re starting to come about today. A lot of buildings have come down, a lot of blight has been renovated in our Downtown area, new places have opened up, and it’s been a really exciting time in Gardner. For me, the most development I’ve seen in my life and in my time here in Gardner.”
- The Gardner Perspective
Gardner Magazine releases “The Gardner Perspective” – inspired by Rachael Roberts
This powerful, emotional, positive song about Gardner is an original inspired by the wisdom of Rachael Roberts who has worked in the Gardner Mayor’s office for over a decade. Listen to the song on any device, CLICK PLAY.
POP – The Gardner Perspective From the song: “Perspective is your truth and it starts with you, being grateful with a more positive overview.” The song enumerates the wonderful assets the City of Gardner is so lucky to have and embraces the concept of positivity in life. Thank you Rachael Roberts for your wise words and your ongoing contributions to the City of Gardner and to the people who are lucky enough to live in the Chair City.
- Mid Summer Blues
Gardner Magazine releases an original blues song “Mid Summer Blues” about Summer heat frustrations
Are you so hot when the weather turns 90 that you’re putting ice cubes between your toes. This song is a fun blues song about the “Mid Summer Blues” There are 2 separate blues versions, both are enjoyable for the vocals and the instrumental sections in between. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
BLUES – Version 1 – Mid Summer Blues BLUES – Version 2 – Mid Summer Blues From the song: “It’s so damn hot I got the blues, what’s the word for my silly woes, I’m using ice cubes in twos, and putting them between my toes.”
- Infrastructure 8-11-25
Infrastructure Report 8-11-25 Infrastructure in Gardner – The Complete Report
Gardner Magazine has spoken with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about Gardner infrastructure. Infrastructure is the set of facilities and systems that serve a City like Gardner and the term encompasses the services and facilities necessary for its economy, households, and firms to function. Infrastructure is composed of public and private physical structures such as roads, railways, bridges, airports, public transit systems, water supply, sewers, electrical grids, telecommunications like internet connectivity and broadband access. The report showcases the efforts over the last 5 years to improve Gardner’s infrastructure, drawing on recent and past interviews and a Press Conference. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.Infrastructure Report 8-11-25 You’ll hear about roads and paving, parking, basic city services, education facilities, gains in infrastructure through the use of a 3rd party grant writer, groundbreaking for the water main, expanding internet connectivity, the Viewpoint Online permitting system, legal items like the Charter and ordinances-policies, public transportation, preserving the environment and being efficient with energy, specific awards and recognitions, and how the Mayor puts constituents first.
- Deep Dive – Infrastructure
DEEP DIVE – Infrastructure
A conversation and report with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on both hard and soft infrastructure. The explanation is illuminating. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Infrastructure
- Pool Open 8-11-25
Greenwood Pool is open regular hours noon to 5pm. Repairs were completed. However, Yoga in the Park has been canceled on Monday, August 11, 2025 due to the heat.
- Downtown Gardner Guide
Profiling Downtown Gardner Massachusetts – What You’ll Find
Downtown Gardner MA has evolved over the years and there are so many reasons why Downtown Gardner is a Place to Enjoy. Here’s a listing of Downtown Businesses with links to websites if available. Did we miss one? Please email News@GardnerMagazine.com and we’ll add it.
Visit Downtown Gardner MA to eat at your favorite place, to buy an appliance or a TV, to see the art gallery or create art, to view apartments, to do your banking, to access business services, to buy some delicious homemade candy, to buy coins and cards, to buy gifts and collectibles, to buy clothing and sportswear, make arrangements for construction services, see a realtor, service a cell phone, buy natural foods and vitamins, shop for furniture, do business with the City at City Hall, get your hair done, access healthcare, buy a watch or jewelry, visit a non-profit, buy a bicycle, get something printed whether its on paper or on a teeshirt, or simply enjoy some recreation at Orpheum Park or Maki Park. When you need to go inside to rest, you can visit the library.
10 great places to eat in Downtown and dozens of businesses ready to serve you!Downtown Gardner is a Place to Enjoy!
- Downtown Gardner – Place to Enjoy
“Downtown Gardner – A Place to Enjoy” original song
Gardner Magazine is releasing an ensemble package of the original song “Downtown Gardner – A Place to Enjoy”. Downtown Gardner is such a great place that just one version of the song wouldn’t do Downtown Gardner MA justice, so the song has been mastered in almost every style of music which has existed since before Gardner became a City in 1923.Each song version was carefully produced. Listen to any or all of the versions of the song on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Some Modern Music Types: Versions of “Downtown Gardner – A Place to Enjoy”
POP POP BALLAD COUNTRY ROCK JAZZ FUSION PIANO POP ELECTRONIC DANCE HIP HOP – CLASSIC RAP R & B Song Types Through the Decades – Versions of “Downtown Gardner – A Place to Enjoy”
CLASSICAL WITH ORCHESTRA ROARING 1920’S 1930’s VOCAL 1940’s BIG BAND 1950’s ROCK 1960s FOLK 1970s CLASSIC ROCK 1970’s DISCO TRADITIONAL COUNTRY FOLK-ROCK PSYCHEDELIC ROCK 1980s HARD ROCK 1980s FUNK 80s ROCK 1990s NEW WAVE 1990s SYNTH POP 2000s GRUNGE 2000S ALTERNATIVE ROCK INDIE ROCK MODERN DISCO Downtown Gardner MA is welcoming to all, no matter what type of music fits your tastes. Downtown Gardner is looking better all the time. So listen to your favorite version of this song and then schedule a visit to Downtown Gardner, a place to enjoy!
