An A-Maze-Ing Hotline Radio Show of October 24, 2026
Listen to the entire program on any device, CLICK PLAY.
First up on the show: Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson who spoke about the Heywood Hospital Healthy Harvest 5K held today: There were over 200 runners. Reminds people about being active while giving back. “It was a really great time.” “Heywood Hospital is a huge help to us in the community.” “Having a top-notch hospital in our backyard is a huge benefit.” — A discussion about upcoming food drives: The Gardner City Council has partnered with the Gardner CAC and MVOC to collect food before the holidays. — Host Steve Wendell asked Mayor Nicholson about Christmas season events. Nicholson noted that while a schedule is being put together for a number of December events, the Sunday after Thanksgiving is the tree-lighting ceremony. — Mayor Nicholson spoke about a grant celebrated this week involving the MVP Academy where students can take shop classes at Monty Tech – a local restaurant building will be renovated with grant funding and culinary classes will be added to the available options. “It’s a great program that continues to grow.” Steve Wendell spoke with the Mayor about politics – people are doing standouts for Nicholson today in all 4 communities in the 2nd Worcester District: Gardner, Templeton, Ashburnham, and Winchendon. Deadline to register to vote is 5pm today. —
Steve Wendell highlighted that he has offered ½ hour of free airtime to all candidates. Wendell mentioned that candidate John Reilly has not responded to interview requests from WGAW, Gardner Magazine, and the Gardner News.
Steve Wendell interviewed various individuals at the Heywood Healthcare Healthy Harvest 5K where over 200 runners participated.
Mike Urban did a commentary on corruption in Massachusetts politics. Topics included $1.4 million benefit fraud case in MA, Levels of Corruption, Problems with Illegals, Food Stamp Fraud in MA, Stolen Identities, Individual Fraud, Gang Fraud
Steve Wendell reiterated that a $40,000 reward has been offered for the conviction of those responsible for previous sabotage of the station.
Commentary from Werner Poegel – the Mayoral Matrix – A review of all 11 Gardner City Councilors who might be in the running for Mayor. Host Steve Wendell stated that he predicts Brad Heglin would become City Council President and then take over as Acting Mayor in January.
SPECIAL HOTLINE REPORT – The Pennington Murder of October 2023, 3 years ago. Brianne Pennington was allegedly murdered by her husband Aaron Pennington who is on the FBI’s Most Wanted List.