WGAW Hotline Radio – October 3, 2026
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Host Steve Wendell spoke about recreational opportunities in the area in light of the good Fall weather including State Parks and reflected on the fact that “snowburgers” going to Florida can still get WGAW via streaming.
Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson: Topics included: Discussion of the pedestrian and bike path over 140, upgrades at the Uptown Rotary, the Ben’s Pond Dam in the Mill Street area – a grant application has been submitted to fund a feasbility study, staffing vacancies at the DPW with some positions cut from the budget while vacant, underground tanks needing removal at the DPW – state and federal funding not available because Gardner was proactive in stopping usage before a leak occurred.
Also discussed with the Mayor: Nitrogen upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant – majority is grant funded, but $1.6 million Gardner share needs to be approved by City Council, Karen Butler doing a great job as City Auditor – working with Dept. of Revenue to improve City systems, inventory being conducted of City vehicles, cost of health insurance in the City of Gardner – every municipality is being slammed with health insurance costs – working collaboratively with City Council President George Tyros on the issue, a discussion of the Mayor’s campaign for State Rep. “it’s been really fun,” – Mayor says he would like to have the State work better with cities and towns. – a discussion of possible businesses and projects.
Other Show segments:
Steve Wendell reminded listeners that all qualified candidates for office can get FREE airtime. Steve Wendell spoke about the planet Saturn being the closest to Earth – closer than any other time this year, look to the Eastern sky.
An interview with M.L. Altobelli preparing for winter – note that drought was mentioned in the interview and host Steve Wendell noted after the break that the drought is no longer in effect.
Mason Pumpkin Sale is going on right now at the Helen Mae Sauter school. Steve Wendell interviews Christopher Turcotte from the Masons. Price range is $1 to $3 for small pumpkins and large pumpkins can be $10 to $25.
Gardner Mayor Nicholson’s September Monthly Update – note that some events discussed had already taken place but most are for October and November.
Steve Wendell spoke about an assassination attempt on a Maine Wire reporter, who was almost run down by the would-be assassin who is now in custody. The reporter has been covering the illegal marijuana farms.
Oil Prices Commentary with Werner Poegel – the reasons behind the spike in home heating oil prices in Greater Gardner MA and the nation.
Illegal SNAP benefits in Massachusetts – Mike Urban reports on the EBT scam going on right now. Immigrants are opening buying food and then shipping it overseas. An undercover report