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News Around Greater Gardner MA

News Story Links and Archives

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Mayor’s Update Page – 2022 and 2023 Updates — Gardner City Council 2022 and 2023 Meetings —– Politics 2023 —- Editorials —- Environment —- Non-Profits —- Public Safety —- Fictional Fun —- TOPICS IN DROP-DOWN AND RIGHT COLUMN

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.

• Ride-Along 2025

  

  Gardner Mayor Works Late Shift in Annual Snow Storm Ride-along

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has created a tradition of riding with the DPW during a plowing event each year. In the last snow storm, the Mayor did the late shift.

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson posted the photos used in our collage and commented: “Thank you to Gardner DPW Foreman Doug Munroe for letting me join him for our annual snow storm plow ride-along. While I try to do a ride-along in a plow with the crews once a year, this was my first time doing a night storm. Things really are different in the plows from 11pm to 3am compared to during the daytime.

  I really enjoy learning the first hand perspective of what our DPW employees do in order to keep our streets open and safe during these winter weather events. Thank you to all of our DPW employees for the work you do every day, but especially these late nights and long days during the winter!“

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• Dynamic Duo

  

  Penney and Bujak Honored as Successful Dynamic CEO-CFO Duo

  Heywood Healthcare stated, “Heywood Healthcare is excited to announce that Rozanna Penney, CEO, and John Bujak, CFO, have been named to Becker’s Top 30 Highly Successful CEO-CFO Duos!”

  From Becker’s Hospital Review: Rozanna Penney, CEO & John Bujak, CFO of Heywood Healthcare (Gardner, Mass.). Under Ms. Penney and Mr. Bujak’s direction, Heywood Healthcare successfully navigated a Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring from October 2023 to September 2024, achieving financial stability and operational growth. Their strategic cost reduction initiatives saved $14 million annually, while service line optimization generated an additional $2 million in savings. Despite financial restructuring, they expanded critical services, including reopening the inpatient mental health unit to full capacity for the first time since 2017, increasing inpatient, surgical and ambulatory volumes, and boosting labor and delivery by 15% and perioperative volume by 17%. They also launched a doula program, adding 11 new doulas, and introduced a non-emergency medical transportation program to improve patient access. Employee satisfaction also improved by 6.4% for the first time in five years under their tenure. See the complete list, CLICK HERE. View 100 great community hospitals, CLICK HERE. Healthcare related news from Becker, CLICK HERE.

  From the Heywood Healthcare website: Maternity Information – Virtual Tour —- Behavioral Health Services —- Listing of all services

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• Clear Hydrants

  

  An Easy Life and Property Saving Measure in Greater Gardner MA

  When time counts, a clear path to a fire hydrant may make the difference. The Gardner Fire Department posted, “Shoveling snow away from fire hydrants is crucial to ensure emergency responders can access them quickly in case of a fire. Delays caused by buried hydrants could hinder firefighting efforts, putting lives and property at risk. With the recent snowfall, please take a few minutes and shovel any fire hydrants near your home.”

  Further suggestions: Clear at least 3 feet around the hydrant and clear a path to the street.

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• Romantic Restaurant

  

  Full Transparency: All poll results and the number of votes. Conclusion: Question not really answered.

  Real Poll on Romantic Restaurant Gives Mixed Results

  Gardner Magazine noticed that another publication had published a poll regarding what is the most Romantic Restaurant in the area. Only problem: The names of restaurants were pre-listed with some local restaurants already excluded. So we decided to do a real poll with local Social Media members choosing their own options. When publishing a poll, the user must have at least one option, so we put in what we thought was an innocuous term, “Home”. Our observation was that some thought the question was ridiculous and others took it seriously. Also note that the term “Greater Gardner” means something different to different people. So here are the actual unvarnished results after 1 week. Click on each poll graphic to see a larger view.

  

  Gardner MA Uncensored: Home 8%, There isn’t one 67%, I guess Sawa 6%, Taco Bell 4%, Corner booth at William’s 6%, Gardner Ale House 3%, Williams 2%, Dumpster behind McDonald’s 2%, Backseat of car 2% Total Votes 89

  

  Gardner MA What’s Going On: Home 47%, Ale House 11%, Williams 14%, Sawa 11%, Shane’s Hot Dogs 5%, The Old Mill Crackerbarrel Lounge 8%, Taco Bell 2%, Cumberland Farms 2%. Total votes: 69

  

  Publisher’s Note: We all know how far off various polls can be even when careful protocols are observed. For example, even in a Presidential poll, pollsters rotate which candidate’s name is mentioned first as even that can affect results. In our case, one social media group seized upon “Home” as a desired response, the other did not, but seized upon a member’s “there isn’t one”. Conclusion: Our poll did not really answer the original question, but we decided it would be useful to publish the results along with the number of respondents.

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• Committee 2-10-25

  

  Gardner School Committee Holds Meeting on Monday February 10, 2025

  The Gardner School Committee is expected to accept grant funds in the amount of $100,000 and accept a donation in the amount of $75,000 to establish a scholarship. The committee is also expected to vote on various expenditures.

  During the meeting, school policies will be discussed including non-discrimination and harassment, Cori policy, Committee powers and duties, relations with nonpublic schools, health policies and requirements, student photographs, public gifts to the schools, public solicitations, and advertising in the schools.

  Complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

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• Shelter Reform

  

  Representative Jonathan Zlotnik Comments on House Passage of Right-to-Shelter Reform Bill

  Representative Jonathan Zlotnik joined colleagues in the Massachusetts House in voting to pass a bill reforming the state run homeless shelter system. Right-to-Shelter was put in place more than 4 decades ago and many, including Zlotnik, have described the current system as “not sustainable.” In a Press Release, Representative Zlotnik stated “While this bill is not perfect it is a significant step forward, especially in the area of cost containment.” Importantly, the bill gives the HLC the authority to require benefits to be provided only to families who are residents of Massachusetts and who are United States citizens or otherwise lawfully permitted to reside in MA. In Gardner, it was recently announced by the State of MA that the Super 8 hotel will cease being used as a shelter by June 30^th. Read the complete Press Release, click here.

  Jonathan Zlotnik also added the following comments for Gardner Magazine: “I also want to add a few things I didn’t get into in depth in the release. This is the 2nd session where funding for this program has been done in a separate bill. As I said, I didn’t vote for the last one, but during that debate I voted for many amendments that offered reforms that did not pass. Some of those were included in this bill and there still some others that I think are good ideas that will hopefully gain more support in the future.”

  “I also want to point out that while unfortunately this bill is being used by some to make this a partisan issue, House Republicans offered as their plan for this bill on the floor yesterday, and voted for, to authorize $200 million now, and come back again later in the year for more funding. That’s because I think everyone recognizes that cutting back a 40-year-old program that currently houses ~6,000 families is not something you can do overnight without causing severe problems even for those of us who think that this program needs to be deeply reformed and scaled back. The other piece that is getting missed by most of the coverage that has focused on the immigration angle, is that throughout this crisis, about half of the families statewide in the shelter system are American citizens.”

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• Red Songs

  

  

  “Tell Your Valentine ( I Love You)” and “The Red Charger”

  2 Songs Released for Valentine’s Day

  A Valentine’s Day Song called “Tell Your Valentine (I Love You)

  For the song page with complete lyrics and another version, CLICK HERE.

  Another Red song called “The Red Charger” – a classic rock song about getting a fast, red Dodge Charger. Play on any device. CLICK PLAY

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• Job Title 2-8-25

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Job Title” – original song about Job Titles

  Job Titles have somehow become more creative in recent years and this song makes fun of the more interesting titles. Listen to the FUNK song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Are you a Chief Sanitation Engineer or Hollywood Cleaning agent, World Social Media trailblazer or Facebook Addict? Technical evangelist or spiritual equipment officer, King or queen of signals or the family counselor.

  For the song page with complete lyrics and additional versions, CLICK HERE.

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• 18 HR. Commentary

  

  Commentary – 18 Hour Trade War – Not a Conflict at All

  The recent 18 Hour Trade War was not a war at all. Listen to the commentary on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to the song featured in the commentary by itself, the 18 Hour Trade War song. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Visit the song page with lyrics and an additional version of the song, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 2-8-25

  

  Planning – Resources – Funding – Legislation – Policy Focus of WGAW Hotline Radio Program

  Hotline Radio Program on WGAW aired Saturday February 8, 2025 from noon to 2pm. Here are some of the highlights:

  
  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke with host Steve Wendell on various topics including Project Planning for the City of Gardner —- A Deep Dive Report with Jack and Jill on Veterans Resources in Massachusetts – ABC Report on Defunding the U.S. Department of Education —– Interview with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik on Housing and MA legislation —- 18 Hour Trade War Commentary and Song by Werner Poegel. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Miss a past Hotline Radio show? Visit the WGAW Hotline Radio Archive page and listen to past shows, CLICK HERE.

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• Storm 2-8-25

  

  An AUDIO message from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson regarding the storm and parking ban. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Winter Storm Warning 7pm February 8^th to 1pm February 9^th in area and state

  The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning from 7pm on Saturday February 8, 2025 to 1pm on Sunday, February 9, 2025. Heavy snow is expected with total snow accumulations between 4 and 7 inches. All of Massachusetts east of the Berkshires is affected except for the Cape and Islands. Travel could be very difficult and extreme caution is advised. Stay home if possible.

  From Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson “Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban beginning this evening, Saturday, February 8th, at 9:00pm, and expiring at 3:00pm tomorrow, Sunday, February 9th. There will be a public parking lot ban from 3:00pm tomorrow evening 5:00pm tomorrow, Sunday, February 9th.Residents are advised to restrict all travel to only that which is necessary during the parking ban, to allow crews to adequately plow the roads.”

  For more weather information, please visit our Greater Gardner Weather Center page, CLICK HERE.

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• This Week 2-7-25

  

  This Week in the Chair City – an Update by Gardner Magazine

  Gardner Magazine on some of what is going on in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Business Openings —- Fundraisers — Budget News —- Gardner Super 8 —- Black History Month —- Events —- Registrations — Sponsorships —- Health and Wellness Fair —- Gardner Farmers Market —- Various Upcoming Meetings in Gardner – Levi Heywood Memorial Library

  If you’d like to have your event on the periodic “This Week in the Chair City” just email News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• No Parking – Yes Trash

  

  

  No On-Street Parking Thursday, Yes There will be Trash Collection

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has informed us that there will be an on-street parking ban on Thursday, February 6th from 7am to 7pm.

  Here is what the Mayor wrote on Wednesday “On the advice of the DPW and Police Dept, Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban, tomorrow, Thursday, February 6, beginning at 7:00am and ending at 7:00pm tomorrow evening (February 6th). A further reminder will be issued tomorrow.

  EL Harvey has informed the City they plan to move forward with trash collection as regularly scheduled tomorrow. (February 6th)”

  School Closings Thursday February 6th

  School Closings Thursday February 6, 2025 as of 9:40pm on day before: Ashburnham-Westminster, Athol-Royalston, Fitchburg, Gardner, Leominster, Montachusett Regional Voc. Tech, Mount Wachusett Community College, Nashoba Regional, Nashoba Valley Technical, North Middlesex, Quabbin Regional, Wachusett Regional, Complete MA list, CLICK HERE. In addition, Winchendon Schools Facebook page shows Winchendon is also closed on Thursday February 6th. If you aren’t sure about your community, please check local resources.

  The Gardner Senior Center and the Levi-Heywood Memorial Library will be closed Thursday, February 6th.

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• City Council 2-3-25

  

  In a statement during Council Comments and Remarks, Council President Tyros emphasizes why oversight is so important in the context of a July 31, 2024 meeting. We have details below and AUDIO from that meeting.

  Gardner City Council Meets on February 3, 2025

  The Council added a Committee on Economic and Community Development on a vote of 9 -0. — Feasibility Study for Middle School Roof Replacement passed. City will borrow $100,000 —- A Human Resource Manager position was added. —- Jayden Kumar was confirmed as Assistant City Clerk after receiving compliments from many Councilors.. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Council President Tyros Issues Statement During Council Comments and Remarks

  
  “After about a month of operating with these new council rules, I want to take a moment to highlight the positive effects they have led on our council operations. As we just saw, tonight’s agenda was clear and straightforward, including only items that undergone subcommittee review and were ready to be acted upon. For example, this evening’s agenda included a time-sensitive item regarding the MSBA’s accelerated roof repair program for the middle school roof. In the past, the norm would have been for this to go on the council agenda where it would have either been referred to finance committee or, because of the timeliness, been asked for a vote right away. The rule change enabled us for a direct assignment of this item to proper subcommittee once adequate information was submitted by the mayor and department head. Without this change, the only information the council would have had to work with for a six-figure appropriation would have been a single email from the school department’s director of finance and operations. However, the finance committee was able to ask questions, request information, and delve into the reasons why this appropriation was needed before bringing the item to the council for attention. All requests for appropriation deserve to be carefully reviewed, and that responsibility grows with the size of the request. We as a council should be able to, in a timely manner, and we should be able to work on a deadline. This situation showed that, and importantly showed, the value of the new rules and procedures. I want to highlight why this process is so important. At the Capital Improvement Planning Committee meeting on July 31, 2024, the school department’s director of finance and operations, when asked to clarify the math behind the planned reimbursement for one-time funds for other in-flight projects using capital improvement project funds, of which the middle school roof replacement is part of, his response was evasive. He claimed it would, quote, get into the nitty-gritty of school finances. It’s on YouTube if anyone’s interested. Getting into the nitty-gritty of our finances is exactly what I think our responsibility is to the taxpayer. We will be judicious in making sure that we have the proper information and we ask the right questions in order to make the best decisions possible for the city. We should all want this, and we should all work towards this. These updated council rules allow us to do that by functioning more transparently ourselves and fulfill our duties of legislative oversight, as demonstrated here tonight. “

  Listen to the Capital Improvement Committee meeting Council President Tyros referenced and hear what Tyros called the evasive response from Director of Finance and Operations, Mark Hawke when asked a question by City Purchasing Director Cormier and then what ensued when Tyros followed up. Video Link Here. We have AUDIO of the complete meeting at right and the concerning 3 1/2 minute exchange Council President Tyros is referencing in his comments above.

  Discussion Revolved around the $8 million surplus. Councilor Tyros and other committee members asked some very specific oversight questions at the meeting. Hear the concerning responses from Mark Hawke in this excerpt from the meeting. CLICK PLAY.

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• Black History Month 2025

  

  Resources to learn more about Black History Month:

  The Library of Congress hosts a complete website devoted to Black History month. Covers events, exhibits, collections, AUDIO, video, and has a great guide for teachers. CLICK HERE.

  The Smithsonian has a Black History Month page, CLICK HERE.

  The U.S. Census website has a complete page on Black History month with complete statistics such as the more than 50 million Black Americans and the more than 160,000 Black owned employer businesses in the U.S. CLICK HERE.

  The National Museum of African American History and Culture has a Black History month page: CLICK HERE.

  

  Local, State, and Federal Executives Honor Black History Month

  In the City of Gardner, Mayor Michael Nicholson and Council President George Tyros issued a Proclamation which is also signed by Councilor Dana Heath. The Proclamation states in part, “February is designated Black History Month, a time for honoring and exploring the culture and history of African Americans and recognizing that our society’s rich diversity is one of our greatest strengths… Observing Black History Month provides opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of African American history and acknowledge the centuries of struggles for equality” Read the complete Proclamation by clicking on the image below:

  

  At the State level, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey posted on X: “Black History is American History. Black history is Massachusetts history.
  Learn it. Embrace it. Celebrate the Black change makers and innovators who continue to push our state and our nation toward full freedom, justice and equality for all. Happy Black History Month.”

  At the Federal level, President Donald Trump wrote in a Proclamation: “Every year, National Black History Month is an occasion to celebrate the contributions of so many black American patriots who have indelibly shaped our Nation’s history.

  Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most consequential leaders, shaping the cultural and political destiny of our Nation in profound ways. American heroes such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Thomas Sowell, Justice Clarence Thomas, and countless others represent what is best in America and her citizens. Their achievements, which have monumentally advanced the tradition of equality under the law in our great country, continue to serve as an inspiration for all Americans. We will also never forget the achievements of American greats like Tiger Woods, who have pushed the boundaries of excellence in their respective fields, paving the way for others to follow.”

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• Super 8

  

  State says: Gardner Super 8 use as Migrant Shelter ends June 30th

  Tyler Newhall, the Legislative Director for Emergency Assistance & Director of Municipal Relations for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has informed the City of Gardner that this is part of the State’s efforts to phase out the use of hotels as Emergency Assistance shelters by the end of 2025. The City of Gardner has had no control over migrant placements. A check of Trip Advisor shows that the last public review of Super 8 Gardner was February 2023 and before that numerous ones from 2022 indicating just how long the facility has been utilized as an EA shelter.

  Here’s exactly what Tyler Newhall wrote in an email sent simultaneously on February 3rd to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, State Senator Peter Durant, and State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik:

  “I am writing to inform you of the planned closure of the Gardner Super 8 as an Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter site by Monday, June 30th, as part of our efforts to phase out the use of hotels as EA shelters by the end of 2025.

  In the coming months, service provider Making Opportunities Count (MOC) will continue to support families with case management and to secure permanent housing. It is our shared goal to support as many families as possible to exit the shelter system into safe and stable housing prior to the site closure. For many families, this will include utilizing rental assistance through the HomeBASE program, and we appreciate the community’s support in identifying potential landlords and available apartments. EOHLC will support any families that remain eligible for EA who have not successfully exited shelter for stable housing by the site closure to transfer to an alternative family shelter location.

  In the coming days, we will notify partners of these site closure plans and take the following steps to support the transition:

  EOHLC and the contracted shelter service provider will communicate directly with families at the shelter location to inform them of the planned closure date and resources and services available to support them. This will include resource materials translated to multiple languages and an in-person town hall for all shelter residents.

  The Department of Elementary & Secondary Education will contact your superintendent to inform them of the planned closure date and help prepare the district for any potential changes to enrollments or transportation needs.

  EOHLC and state partners will directly contact community-based organizations and local partners to inform them of the planned closure date.

  On behalf of the Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC) and the Healey-Driscoll Administration, I’d like to express enormous gratitude for your partnership and commitment to serving children and families placed in emergency shelter in your community during this extraordinary time.

  Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any questions or if I can be of assistance in any way.

  All the best,

  Ty“

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• Monument Park 2025

  

  Have questions? Like to support the Summer Concert Series at Monument Park? Send an email to: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov

  Gardner’s Unassuming Monument Park is Really a Big Deal

  For years Gardner’s Bandstand Committee has met prior to the Summer Concert Series season. Its next meeting is Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 3:30pm located at the DPW office at 50 Manca Drive in Gardner. At the meeting the committee will be finalizing the 2025 Concert Schedule and discussing various contracts. They will also be reviewing their financial statements and that’s where individuals and businesses can help. All of the Summer Concerts at Monument Park are FREE, but the artists are top notch, costing much more than attendees imagine. Donations support the series and additional business sponsors and individual donations are always welcome.

  How wonderful would it be if individuals and business owners showed up at the April 24^th meeting with support in the form of a check. Have questions? Send an email to: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov Last year was awesome with a variety of music including the 60’s, Classic Rock, Country, Oldies, Blues, and even the Beatles. With support, this year will be even better than last.

  The Bandstand Committee includes Chairman Michael Zlotnik, Mark Monahan, Nancy Binder, Denise Merriam, Edward Vipond and Administrative Assistant Marry Rojas. Have questions? Send an email to: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov

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• Indecision 2025

  

  Song page with lyrics and additional graphics, CLICK HERE.

  A Wacky 80’s Pop Song About Indecision – Think About It

  Ever asked a question only for someone to say, let me think about it, let me look in to it, or let me check on that…hmm, I’ll have to get back to you.

  Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Weather 2-2-25

  

  National Weather Service Issues Winter Weather Advisory – Local Parking Bans Announced

  The National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory on Sunday, February 2, 2025.

  Snow expected: Total snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches including Central and Western Massachusetts. Taking place from 7pm on Sunday February 2nd to 7am on Monday February 3rd. Plan on slippery road conditions including possible hazardous conditions at the start of the Monday morning commute in the area. Snow will develop from west to east between 7 and 9 pm. The snow may become briefly heavy at times late this evening Sunday February 2nd before tapering off between 2 and 4 am Monday.

  From the City of Gardner: “Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban this evening, Sunday, February 2nd, beginning at 9:00pm, and expiring at 7:00am tomorrow, Monday, February 3rd.  There will be a public parking lot parking ban from 7am to 9am once the on street ban has been lifted.”

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• The Cannon

  

  Go to “The Cannon” song page for 15 additional versions and the song lyrics, CLICK HERE.

  

  “The Cannon” Continues to be Heard – Source not yet Identified – Song Written and Produced

  The sound of a cannon is heard periodically in Gardner and surrounding communities. Law enforcement has speculated on where the source might be, but the culprit of the elusive cannon has not yet been caught. All local media and Social Media is abuzz including radio station WGAW which has played a recording of the actual cannon on the hit Saturday show, Hotline Radio. Gardner Magazine has produced 16 versions of a song called, “The Cannon”. Listen to the Classic Rock version here on any device.

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• Groundhog Day

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Groundhog Day” song and Groundhog Day Special Report.

  Groundhog Day is February 2nd every year. It has a long history which we chronicle in our lengthy special report below. We also have a fun song entitled “Groundhog Day”. Listen to the fun song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  In the Groundhog Day Special Report, you’ll learn more than you ever wanted to know about the history of this day, the groundhog, and whether he will see his shadow or not. Listen to the report on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Hotline 2-1-25

  

  Chapter 90 and Chapter 70 Funding Likely to Increase – Mayor Nicholson on Hotline Radio

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson appeared as the first guest on WGAW’s Hotline Radio on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Listen to the entire show on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Should the legislature approve, the Chair City of Gardner is slated to receive more money this coming year from the state for paving and for the schools. Mayor Nicholson stated “The governor released her budget last week, and it’s actually really good for us in Gardner. The Chapter 90 bill that was proposed has Gardner getting a 58 percent increase in what we’d be receiving for road paving for the year. This is the first time we’ve seen an increase in Chapter 90 funding since 2012. So if that gets passed by the legislature, that’ll be really positive for us here in Gardner. And then the Chapter 70 funding also came in a million dollars over what we were planning to expect. So that’s the funding that goes to our schools.”

  The Mayor also spoke about other public and private projects in the City of Gardner.

  Other segments included a Law Enforcement Ceremony at Fitchburg State – Gardner Fire Chief Lagoy on 2024 activity of the Department —a Deep Dive with Jack and Jill on Cancer in Massachusetts — Comedy One Liners

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• This Week 1-31-25

  

  This Week in the Chair City – An Update by Gardner Magazine

  Gardner Magazine with an Update on some of what is going on in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Library Programs — MWCC — Fire Dept. — Earthquake — Nicholson elected President — various fundraisers and events — Health and Wellness Fair — Farmers Market vendors — Gardner MA Meetings

  If you’d like to have your event on the periodic “This Week in the Chair City” just email News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• MWCC Audio

  

  MWCC Adds 6th AUDIO Studio to Facilities

  For decades, Mount Wachusett Community College has trained students in the operation of AUDIO and Video equipment and most recently has maintained 5 AUDIO Studios. On February 7, 2025, the Mount will dedicate its 6th AUDIO studio to retiring Chief Engineer of Media Services, Arthur Collins.

  
  “Robust audio programs with facilities like ours are rare in Communications and Media programs,” says Professor John Little, Media Arts & Technology Department Chair. “Equipment like we have here is almost only found in music recording schools.  We’re thrilled to offer this level of audio training in a two-year school toward disciplines in television, film, and music.  We know how lucky we are to be able to train at this level, and so do our students.  Some of them commute an hour and a half to study here.”

  What’s Special About This Studio?

  The new audio studio is unique in that it is built around a state-of-the-art sound board that is designed for shows in large arenas, concert halls, and stadiums.  “No other school in New England is doing anything like this,” says Rick Scott of Pason’s Audio LLC in Woburn, MA who consulted in the studio’s design.  The system is appropriate for stereo music production, 5.1 surround sound mixing in films, and training the concepts of high-end equipment used in mixing sound at live shows.  A slightly smaller portable version of the same sound board will be used throughout the campus with various sound systems for training in the program’s brand-new course on Live Sound Reinforcement.

  The Designers

  The room was acoustically engineered by Lou Clark of Sonic Space, an architectural company in Portsmouth, NH, who also designed MWCC’s Audio Studio 5.  Every surface, angle, color, and placement of every component is set to the architect’s design.  The room was built by Dave Ruthart of Ruthardt Woodesign, in Sudbury MA.  The equipment was installed and commissioned by MWCC’s Media Services team. For more information on the 4 curriculum paths offered at MWCC’s Dr. Vincent S. Ialenti Media Arts and Technology Center, visit the website, CLICK HERE.

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• Bring Critical

  

  Editorial: Being Critical Part of Media Role

  Gardner Magazine is often criticized for being overly positive about the Chair City. We agree. This publication has a “cup is half full” approach. It’s often easy to be positive as current Mayor Nicholson has been instrumental in turning things around. But in the rush to complete badly needed tasks on the to-do list, certain items get overlooked.

  99% of City employees are great and do their jobs very well. But when they don’t, we believe accountability is key. Even if someone just got appointed and the City would owe them 2 years pay, in my opinion it is shortsighted to keep them on the payroll. Cut them loose no matter what it costs because the “good” employees don’t like it when a bad performer is allowed to remain. And it can be argued that the damage they may cause more than offsets the immediate costs of letting them go. The same goes for Boards and Commissions, some of which are admittedly hard to staff. Even so, if a Board Chair mistreats a member of the public they should be gone. In my opinion, such a situation happened recently. We expressed our strongest concerns very privately but heard nothing back. Our public editorial comments were a bit watered down, our outrage tempered with a bit of restraint.

  Years ago when local newspapers still did editorials and letters to the editor were published officials had to respond. When I used to fill in for Ken Ash on WGAW’s Party Line as a 20 year old, if a businessman was mistreated at a meeting, there would have been many calls and the official would either apologize, resign, or be terminated. City Councilors openly and publicly criticized each other’s positions and it was very healthy for democracy. Today, Social Media fills some of the void, but unfortunately many negative comments are inaccurate or simply false so people tend to take things with a grain of salt and call it “unwanted drama.”

  Gardner Magazine will continue to be positive most all of the time because positivity is better than negativity and 99% of the time it is warranted. But, we will also hold public officials to account for their actions and sometimes we will even be wrong in the assessment, but we pledge to bring you accurate information in the form of AUDIO of meetings and full PRESS RELEASES so you can make up your own mind. Facts are facts, but almost everyone has a different opinion about a given situation.

  Email your comments to News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• Comedy One-Liners

  

  A Touch of Goofiness to Break Up the Week – Comedy One-Liners

  Gardner Magazine presents various voices with Comedy One-Liners, a little bit of goofiness and silliness sprinkled with a bit of funny. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A sample of the dozens of one-liners portrayed in the AUDIO.

  A man entered a local paper’s pun contest. He sent in 10 different puns, in the hope that at least one of the puns would win. Unfortunately, no pun in 10 did.
  
  Thanks for explaining the word “many” to me. It means a lot.

  What did one DNA say to the other DNA? Do these genes make me look fat?

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• Health 1-27-25

  

  UPDATE 1-28-25 8pm: Gardner Magazine reached out regarding this matter to Board of Health Chair Susan Avallone, Director Micah Blondeau, and Mayor Michael Nicholson. We will update this article should any or all provide comments to us.

  
  Board of Health Hears Spirited Appeal of Tobacco Suspension

  
  The Gardner Board of Health heard an appeal from James Kraskouskas of Anthony’s Liquor Mart regarding an alleged under age tobacco sale. Kraskouskas emphasized the spotless record of Anthony’s Liquor Mart in a lengthy presentation in which he also raised the issue of entrapment and the unfairness of the suspension. Kraskouskas pointed out that the individual was 18 and not 16 or 17 as preprinted on the form. Kraskouskas was frequently interrupted during his testimony by the Chair of the Board of Health and by a member of the Tobacco Alliance. Kraskouskas also related a past situation in which he alleged that the Tobacco Alliance was headhunting for him, noting 2 visits on the same day in October 2023 – Tobacco Alliance denied the allegation at the hearing and stated that they had never gone to a store 2 times in the same day since 1994. The Board of Health reduced the suspension to 1 day which will be February 7th. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Other discussions in the meeting concerned the landfill. Paul DeMeo appeared and Micah Blondeau stated that DeMeo was overstating the urgency of the matter. Avallone was reelected Chair of the Board.

  Publisher’s Note and Editorial Comment: Anthony’s Liquor Mart is a long-time successful Gardner business and James Kraskouskas is a well-respected Gardner business owner. In my opinion, Chair Avallone displayed an inappropriate hostile attitude towards Kraskouskas and allowed him to be unfairly interrupted by the Tobacco Alliance representative during a hearing regarding an alleged tobacco violation. Gardner Magazine has spoken to James Kraskouskas who was clearly disturbed by what he described as the “pompous attitude of Avallone” and in the public interest we have offered to publish all of the materials Kraskouskas was not allowed to present to the Board of Health. Listen to the meeting and or watch it on Youtube and see if you agree with our assessment. We also suggest that the City of Gardner cut ties immediately with the Leominster Tobacco Control Alliance due do concerns we have about statements made during the hearing. When the subject of Homeless Resources came up: We were also dismayed that Avallone as the Chair of the Board of Health did not know at what temperature warming centers are made available, she wrongly stated that maybe it is 30 degrees – factually the Community Room at the Police station is made available with temperatures below 20 degrees and then the Library and Senior Center are made available when less than 10 degrees. In my opinion when lives are at stake, it is very important to state the facts accurately.

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• Smoke Alarms 1-27-25

  

  Gardner Fire Department with example of Smoke Alarm Saving Lives in Gardner MA.

  The Gardner Fire Department posted, “Smoke alarms are crucial for early fire detection and providing life-saving seconds to escape danger.

  Yesterday, Gardner Firefighters responded to a home with smoke in the basement. Firefighters found a small fire in the basement and extinguished it quickly.

  It was later discovered that the occupants were awoken and alerted by the smoke alarms in the home. Early notification by the smoke alarms undoubtedly saved the family’s lives and home.

  Please be sure to have working, compliant smoke alarms in your home.”

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• Drugs 1-27-25

  

  Alleged Drug Dealers Nabbed in Gardner MA

  In a Press Release, (CLICK IMAGE for larger view) Detective Lieutenant Matt Arsenault of the Gardner Police Department announced a joint effort between the Gardner PD and the North Worcester County Drug Task Force which resulted in the arrests of 2 alleged drug dealers. A 31 year old male and a 37 year old male were arrested after search warrants were served at two separate addresses. View the Press Release image for details.

  

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• Downtown Work 1-27-25

  

  Activity in Downtown Gardner on the Last Monday of January 2025

  On January 27, 2025, there was activity in Downtown Gardner. Pictured at top is the Levi Heywood Memorial Library with the beautiful American flag shown in front of the building as patrons visited for various services. At 25 Main Street, the Sweeney lot was blocked off at the rear as construction progress was underway.

  Near the Elks Club there was a group of utility trucks. Pictured are workers in a bucket at the Gardner Fire Department forging ahead on the roof project. At Rear Main Street, a large crane was seen raising a basket high in the air and various construction was in progress.

  It may be winter, but something is still getting done in the Chair City.

  Elsewhere in Gardner: Big Lots is now offering 40 percent off at their closing sale. The Sawa Asian Bistro is staying open at Timpany Plaza for takeout, and the new Sawa location is open at the site of the former Southside Grille. Patrons have reported that it is beautiful inside.

  Wright Tree Service was out doing work, and bucket trucks were even parked near Wendy’s.

  It was the last Monday of January, 2025.

  

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  The Surgical Pavilion Project Site at Heywood Hospital is still temporarily closed. Gardner Magazine will inform you when there is more to report.

  

  The view from Park Street Park was a snow-covered Crystal Lake. The magnificent ducks are expected to return in the Spring as weather permits.

• Earthquake 1-27-25

  

  Earth shakes with 3.8 Magnitude earthquake near York Harbor Maine

  On January 27, 2025 at 10:22am, a magnitude 3.8 earthquake with a depth of 13.2km had an epicenter 10km southeast of York Harbor, Maine. It was felt many miles away as far away as Rhode Island and Boston MA. Local Social Media had numerous reports from the Greater Gardner area.

  Recent earthquakes in New England include today’s 3.8 magnitude 10km southeast of York Harbor Maine, a 1.6 magnitude quake on January 19^th 2km south of Henniker New Hampshire, and a 1.8 magnitude quake on January 18^th 2km south southwest of Moodus, Connecticut.

  To put this quake in perspective, there are 500,000 earthquakes each year with a magnitude of 2.5 to 5.4 which are felt and cause only minor damage. There are 350 quakes in the 5.5 to 6.0 range which cause slight damage to buildings and other structures. 100 quakes each year are in the 6.1 to 6.9 range and may cause a lot of damage in very populated areas. Major earthquakes causing serious damage number 10 to 15 each year and are in the 7.0 to 7.9 range. And every year or two, there is a great earthquake in the magnitude of 8.0 or greater which can totally destroy communities near the epicenter.

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• Chair Alive

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Big Chair Comes Alive”

  This fictional song tells the story of the day the Big Chair Comes Alive. Listen to any or all of the versions on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Big Chair Comes Alive Lyrics by Werner Poegel

  Gardner’s Big Chair sat there quietly, Watching the Chair City so patiently, Hoping and praying so fervently, That its leaders would act expeditiously.

  When the Chair saw a new day had begun, It rose from its legs in the brightness of the sun, Big Chair climbed to the air fueled by elation, Over the City of Gardner’s success sensation.

  Even the Big Chair has come alive, As Gardner is set to fully thrive, All of its people put this in motion, Working together is more than a notion.

  A Chair brought to life by the spirit of success, The magic of common sense fueled the progress, The progress created a glow over the City, So the Chair could rise upward so easily.

  Even the Big Chair has come alive, As Gardner is set to fully thrive, All of its people put this in motion, Working together is more than a notion. The Big Chair went back to its rest, Gardner’s people have aced the test.

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• Nicholson 1-25-25

  

  The Massachusetts Mayors Association was established in 1945. Mayor Nicholson was elected President of the MMA on January 25, 2025.

  Michael Nicholson elected President – of MMA

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson was unanimously elected President of the Massachusetts Mayors’ Association on January 25, 2025. Official Press Release, CLICK HERE. — Complete list of officers, CLICK HERE.

  Mayor Nicholson has been serving as the Massachusetts Mayors Association Association District 2 Representative. In the Press Release, The association complimented Nicholson on “bringing significant developments to Gardner.”

  “As President of the Massachusetts Mayors’ Association, Mayor Nicholson will lead advocacy efforts around housing, economic development, and other issues facing municipalities across the Commonwealth. In this role, Mayor Nicholson will work with state leaders, industry experts, and his colleagues to advocate for the needs of municipalities and to promote efficient, effective, and thriving local government.”

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson stated, “I am honored to have been elected by my peers as the President of the Massachusetts Mayors’ Association….I look forward to continuing a collaboration with my fellow mayors and state leaders as we continue to advocate for the many pressing issues facing municipal government. Local government plays a significant role in increasing the quality of life for residents throughout the Commonwealth and I look forward to working together to ensure our cities thrive.”

  

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• This Week 1-24-25

  

  This Week in the Chair City – An Update by Gardner Magazine

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel with an Update on some of what is going on in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Business News including closings, openings, and progress. —- City Demolition projects — Events at the Library —- New job for City Council member — Hearing re tobacco violation — Shelter for cold — Dog license time —- Assessors — Westminster Strummers performance —- New CDP Director —- Grant company chosen —- Fundraisers and sponsorships — Various Gardner meetings.

  
  If you’d like to have your event on the periodic “This Week in the Chair City” just email News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• Sludge Update

  

  Upcoming Meeting to Give Citizens Input on the Proposed Sludge Landfill Expansion

  On February 10, 2025, there will be a meeting at Gardner City Hall’s Perry Auditorium from 6 to 8pm. In the notice for the public meeting, the City of Gardner outlines its purpose to provide an overview of the City’s wastewater services and the current problem of sludge disposal, review the proposed Sludge Landfill Expansion Project and its alternatives with resident, provide MEPA info including where Gardner is in the environmental review process, present the Project’s Public Involvement Plan, and obtain public feedback.

  Here are links to various Gardner Magazine articles on this subject: Sewage Sludge on May 25, 2022, Sewage Sludge update on July 12, 2022, Topic of Sludge August 11, 2022, Sludge Again August 23, 2022, Sludge Update October 23, 2022, Slinging the Sludge February 9, 2023, Sensible Sludge Statement June 5, 2023, Sludge Resolution December 27, 2023, An update during a Public Service Committee Meeting on May 6, 2024, Sludge Review August 31, 2024.

  
  Here is the update page from the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.

  The Millers River Watershed Council updated its page on the Gardner Sludge Landfill Expansion at the end of December 2024. Here’s the information page, CLICK HERE.

  The North East Biosolids and Residuals Association has an interesting article describing the bigger regional challenges, CLICK HERE.

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• Dogs 2025

  

  Orchestra of Dogs Say Get License Now in Greater Gardner MA

  If your dogs could get together and play one tune this time of year it would be a reminder that 2025 Dog Licenses are now available. In many communities, the process is very easy to do online. You may need to follow up and provide a valid rabies certificate. Why not get it out of the way and do it now?

  In the City of Gardner, visit the Dog License page right here.

  The City of Gardner states, “Licensing your dog is an important public safety requirement. All owners or keepers of a dog 6 months or older are required by state law to license it annually.  Proof of alteration must be provided when first licensed and rabies vaccination must be current. 
   
   No licensing fee will be assessed for any dogs owned by individuals ages 70 or older.  Proof of age, such as a copy of a Driver’s License or Birth Certificate must be provided.” There is a late fee after March 31st. Here’s the link to get your dog license right now, CLICK HERE.

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• Assessors 1-21-25

  

  Chair Leblanc created an amusing moment when speaking about printer frustrations, “When it comes out of the printer, you know, page after page, I’m like this. Exactly. And then I’ll go, son of a bitch. And then my wife says, are you doing the papers again? How’d you guess?“

  Board of Assessors Organizes for 2025, Votes to Accept Assessors Report “With Kudos” – Inspires a Song

  Charles Leblanc was reelected Chair of the Board of Assessors. Assessor Christine Kumar gave the Assessor’s update and information regarding some of the limitations with the Munis software that she needs to adjust manually. Chair Leblanc stated, ”
  The chair will accept the motion to accept the update from the assessor with kudos.” Listen to the Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY

  Chairman Leblanc’s “With Kudos” comment inspired an original song. It’s called “Kudos for Kumar”. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  from the song: {Chorus} Kudos to Kumar, Gardner’s great assessor, It’s Christine, greatness has possessed her. Kudos to Kumar, Gardner’s great assessor.

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• Council 1-21-25

  

  Gardner City Council Debates Oversight of Economic Development Department

  At the Gardner City Council meeting of January 21, 2025, councilors debated oversight of the Economic Development Department, likely creating a new sub-committee at a future meeting. Gardner Mayor Nicholson introduced Jason Stevens who was given a temporary 60 day appointment to the Director’s position. Nicholson indicated he is likely to subsequently appoint Stevens to an interim 1 year term. The requested Human Resource Manager position was approved. 3 firefighters were sworn in. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to the introduction given by Jason Stevens on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

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• Strummers

  

  Westminster Strummers to Perform at Gardner Senior Center

  The Gardner Senior Center posted, “Westminster Strummers Concert at the Gardner Senior Center! Come join us for an afternoon filled with fantastic ukulele music from the Westminster Strummers! This talented group is ready to bring smiles, fun, and lively tunes to the Gardner Senior Center. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some great live music, meet new friends, and celebrate the joy of community! Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and get ready for an unforgettable concert! Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 —Time: 1:30pm — Location: The Gardner Senior Center, Charles P. McKean Building, 294 Pleasant St, Gardner, MA

  If you enjoy this concert and want to participate in learning the ukulele yourself, feel free to sign up for The Gardner Senior Center’s new Beginner Ukulele and Ukulele Strum and Sing-Along classes beginning Monday, February 3, 2025. It’s Ukulele’s people!!! Come and have some strum…fun, we meant fun!”

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• Council 1-21-25

  

  Firm Selected to Handle Gardner’s 3rd Party Grants

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson utilized a review committee to come up with a recommendation for the up to $100,000 expenditure approved in October by the City Council. The result: Keller Partners Company was chosen out of 7 firms competing for Gardner’s business. While no further vote from the City Council is needed at this time, the communication was included in the Agenda – packet for the Tuesday, January 21st meeting. View complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  The last time Gardner did this the City invested $75,000 and got back tens of millions of dollars!

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