Local News Greater Gardner MA Holidays – Gardner News Magazine: Local News & Articles in Gardner MA

Holidays Greater Gardner MA Local News

Holidays Around Greater Gardner MA

2023 Holiday Events page, CLICK HERE

Holidays are listed in descending order

Templeton – Declaration Reading 2026 (5/23/2026)

Reading of the Declaration of Independence – July 4, 2026 from noon to 4pm on the Templeton MA Town Common

Thirteen Voices, One Common: Templeton’s Old-Fashioned Path to 2026

The squeak of a bicycle wheel, the rhythmic tap of a walker on the pavement, and the clear resonance of a neighbor’s voice carrying across the grass—these are the sounds of democracy in its most intimate form. As the United States prepares for its “Semiquincentennial,” the landmark 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it is easy to get lost in the grand scale of national monuments and massive fireworks displays. Yet, the true pulse of American heritage isn’t found in marble statues; it beats within the heart of small-town centers like Templeton, where the weight of history is grounded in the familiar soil of the town common where a reading will take place this Independence Day. Listen to the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss it. CLICK PLAY.

SHORT DEEP DIVE – Reading of the Declaration

The Power of Thirteen

On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the centerpiece of this historic milestone will be a rhythmic, shared recitation of the Declaration of Independence. In a deliberate nod to the nation’s origins, thirteen townspeople and local officials will take turns reading portions of the document. This choice is profoundly symbolic, with each reader standing as a living surrogate for one of the thirteen original colonies. By distributing Thomas Jefferson’s words among the community, the town transforms a static, 250-year-old text into a vibrant performance. It is a reminder that the document does not belong to the archives in Washington, but to the people gathered on the grass in the afternoon sun.

Here’s a short video about this occasion:

A Long-Awaited Return to the Common

This performance marks a poignant homecoming for a community that cherishes its rituals. The annual reading was last held in 2019, hosted by the First Church of Templeton, before the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic forced a multi-year silence. Now, the Templeton Cultural Council is bringing the tradition back with renewed vigor, shifting the stage from the church steps directly onto the Templeton Common. Scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. on that historic Saturday, the event is built around the simple, restorative atmosphere of an “old-fashioned picnic.” The resilience of this tradition, returning just in time for the national anniversary, underscores how local social fabrics are mended through shared presence and public celebration.

Continuity in Motion: From Doll Carriages to Senior Walkers

History is often viewed as a look backward, but Templeton’s celebration ensures the entire timeline of the town is in motion. One of the day’s most evocative features is the parade of decorated doll carriages, bicycles, and senior walkers. This is inclusivity in its most radical, heartfelt form. When a toddler on a tricycle follows a senior citizen with a decorated walker, the “low-barrier” nature of the event creates a bridge across generations. It is a visual representation of the continuity of the American experiment—showing that the responsibility of carrying our shared history passes seamlessly from the eldest residents to the very youngest, all marching together on the same path.

A Sacred Training Ground

The choice of the Templeton Common as the venue adds a profound layer of gravity to the day’s festivities. This is not merely a public park; it is a “historic spot” where the town’s militia once stood in formation, training for the very conflict that the Declaration of Independence set in motion. To hear the grievances against the Crown read aloud on the same ground where local defenders prepared for war creates a “layered history” that a modern stadium could never replicate. With the Narragansett Historical Society open to the public and a genealogist from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) on hand, attendees are invited to dig into their own roots while standing on the literal foundation of the town’s revolutionary past.

The Old-Fashioned Community Ecosystem

The celebration thrives on a diverse ecosystem of local contributions that make the day feel like a town-wide embrace. From the ice cream social hosted by the First Church to the presence of colonial re-enactors and the hum of live music, the event is a tapestry of local flavor. There are raffles to enter and archives to explore at the historical society, yet the overarching spirit is one of accessibility and open invitation. “Bring your lunch and enjoy an old-fashioned picnic on the common! All welcome. FREE.”

Preserving History on a Human Scale

As we look toward the 250th anniversary of the United States, Templeton’s planned celebration serves as a vital reminder: national identity is most effectively preserved at the local level. While massive monuments provide a sense of scale, it is these small-scale, “old-fashioned” traditions that provide a sense of belonging. As the voices of thirteen neighbors echo across the common where the militia once marched, we must ask ourselves: could the simple act of reading our founding document together, under the shade of our own town trees, be a more powerful way to safeguard our history than any monument ever built?
Memorial Day 2026 (5/20/2026)

From the City of Gardner: “The City of Gardner will commemorate Memorial Day with a parade and ceremony featuring the Gardner High School Band. Beginning at the American Legion 22 Elm Street 9:30 a.m. Ceremonies at Monument Park. In case of rain, proceed to City Hall Auditorium.”

On this Memorial Day, let us mourn those who have fallen in service to our country. And even more than that, let us remember them all with great gratitude and solemn thanks.

Celebrating Memorial Day 2026 – and the History of the Holiday

Memorial Day is Monday May 25, 2026. Gardner Magazine is showing you a beautiful American Flag which we noticed in Downtown Gardner and thought it fitting to show as a part of this article.

In the words below, we cover the history of Memorial Day. And in a podcast the Chair Man and the Chair Lady speak about Memorial Day. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Memorial Day

Beyond the Barbecue: The History of Memorial Day

For many, the final Monday of May is a pastel-colored blur of backyard barbecues, department store sales, and the “unofficial start of summer.” It is a day defined by leisure, yet it was forged in the bone-deep exhaustion of a divided nation. From the wreckage of the American Civil War—a conflict that claimed 620,000 lives, a staggering 2% of the population—a new liturgy of grief emerged. By 1870, the logistics of this mourning were monumental; the remains of nearly 300,000 Union dead had been painstakingly reinterred across 73 new national cemeteries.

To Truly Understand Memorial Day

To truly understand Memorial Day is to look beneath the charcoal smoke and see a history that is, at turns, grassroots, subversive, and deeply sacred. We must look past the “day off” to the counter-intuitive truths of a tradition that began not with a government mandate, but as an act of liberation.

The Subversive Sanctuary: Charleston, 1865

While many Northern and Southern towns claim the title of “first,” one of the most visceral precursors to the holiday occurred in the very cradle of the Confederacy. On May 1, 1865, in Charleston, South Carolina, a group of formerly enslaved people performed an act of radical reclamation.

During the war, the Washington Race Course—a site of elite Southern leisure—had been converted into a brutal Confederate prison camp. At least 257 Union soldiers died there, buried in unmarked, shallow mass graves. Once the city fell, the recently freed population spent weeks unearthing the fallen, giving them proper burials, and erecting a white fence around the new cemetery, which they inscribed with the words “Martyrs of the Race Course.”

On that May morning, a procession of 10,000 people erupted into the streets. Led by 3,000 Black school children carrying armfuls of flowers and singing “John Brown’s Body,” they marched around the track. This was the first “Memorial Day” in practice: a subversive act where those once owned as property honored their liberators on a site formerly reserved for the sport of their oppressors.

A Messy Map of Memory: Waterloo and the Southern Precedents

History is rarely a straight line; it is often a landscape of localized traditions that the government later attempts to codify. In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a proclamation naming Waterloo, New York, as the “official” birthplace of the holiday. Waterloo earned its crown through a century-old commitment to silence and ceremony, specifically for its community-wide closing of businesses starting May 5, 1866.

Yet, this official status erases a more complex reality. In the South, a parallel movement was stirring, led not by political decree but by the mourning of widows. In Columbus, Georgia, Mary Ann Williams, secretary of the Ladies Memorial Association, issued a call to the press on March 11, 1866, to set aside a day for the “debt we owe” the fallen.

“Let the soldiers’ graves, for that day at least, be the Southern Mecca, to whose shrine her sorrowing women, like pilgrims, may annually bring their grateful hearts and floral offerings…” — Mary Ann Williams, March 1866

While Williams’ vision was initially tied to the “Confederate Memorial Day” on April 26, the impulse was the same across the map. In Columbus, Mississippi, women famously decorated both Confederate and Union graves in a gesture of reconciliation that moved the national heart. Meanwhile, in the North, towns like Boalsburg and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, were already tending to “passionless mounds” by late 1864.

The Botanical Logic of May 30th

The transition from local mourning to “National Decoration Day” came through General John A. Logan’s General Order No. 11 in 1868. Logan, commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, selected May 30 for reasons that were both tactical and poetic.

Crucially, the date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of any particular battle. Logan sought a neutral ground that would focus the nation’s attention on the soldier rather than the strategy, the sacrifice rather than the victory. Beyond this tactical neutrality was a seasonal necessity: according to Logan’s wife, late May was simply the optimal time for the “choicest flowers” to be in full bloom in the North.

“…Gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with the choicest flowers of Springtime; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from dishonor…” — General John A. Logan, May 5, 1868

Though the term “Memorial Day” was used as early as 1882, the holiday retained its “Decoration Day” identity for nearly a century, not becoming officially renamed until 1967.

The Noon-Time Ritual: A Metaphorical Sunrise

For the modern observer, Memorial Day is often a static holiday, but its protocol suggests a dynamic, time-bound ritual of mourning and renewal. The American flag follows a unique choreography: it is first raised briskly to the top of the staff, then solemnly lowered to half-staff. It remains there until exactly noon, at which point it is raised once more to full-staff.

The symbolism is profound. The morning hours at half-staff represent the nation’s collective mourning for the more than one million men and women who have died in service. The noon-time rise to full-staff serves as a metaphorical sunrise—a sign of the nation’s persistence and a tribute to the living who continue the fight.

To anchor this in the modern world, the National Moment of Remembrance Act of 2000 asks for a pause at 3:00 p.m. local time. These time-bound rituals are essential “interrupts”—friction in our leisure that forces us to reconcile the comfort of our present with the cost of our past.

The Red Poppy: A Baptism of Blood

The red poppy, the global emblem of remembrance, was born not from the Civil War, but from the industrial slaughter of World War I. Inspired by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae’s 1915 poem “In Flanders Fields,” which described poppies blooming between the crosses of the dead in Belgium, the flower became a symbol of life persisting in the wake of destruction.

Moina Michael, an American secretary, made it her mission to distribute silk poppies to honor the “baptism of blood” on the battlefield. By 1920, the American Legion adopted the poppy, cementing a tradition that connects modern remembrance to the mud and trenches of the Great War.

Memorial Day as Monday Holiday:

The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971 officially moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30th date to the last Monday in May. While this created the three-day weekend we recognize today, it also sparked a lasting tension. Organizations like the VFW have long argued that this shift diluted the holiday into a “nonchalant observance,” turning a day of “memory and tears” into a retail event.

Yet, Memorial Day persists as a pillar of our “secular civil religion”—a time when the nation attempts to make sense of its history through the lens of sacrifice. As President John F. Kennedy observed in 1963: “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers…”

In our busy, modern world, the challenge is to ensure that these “shines” do not go untended. We must decide if the holiday is merely a gateway to summer, or if we can still find the time to pause—to allow the noon-time flag and the 3:00 p.m. silence to remind us that the greatest casualty is being forgotten. On this Memorial Day, let us mourn those who have fallen in service to our country. And even more than that, let us remember them all with great gratitude and solemn thanks.
Earth Day 2026 (4/14/2026)

View our complete Earth Day page with multiple reports, DEEP DIVE and Debate podcasts, a short video, and detailed infographics. For the complete page, CLICK HERE

For details on the April 25th Keep Gardner Beautiful Day, visit their Facebook page, CLICK HERE.

Earth Day 2026: Gardner Magazine Reports

Earth Day is April 22, 2026 and Gardner Magazine has complete coverage of its history, impact, protecting the earth, and the evolution of U.S. Environmental policy. For the complete page, CLICK HERE. And don’t forget, Keep Gardner Beautiful Day is coming up on Saturday, April 25th. Facebook page, CLICK HERE.

Jump to a report, CLICK a LINK: Earth Day: Origins, Global Evolution, and Environmental Impact —- The $2,000 Gamble That Saved the World: 7 Surprising Truths About the Birth of Earth Day —- Our Planet, Our Power: A Guide to Protecting the Earth —The Story of Earth Day: From a Campus Idea to a Global Movement —- Strategic Communications Plan: Scaling Environmental Stewardship Through Thematic Mobilization — The Evolution of United States Environmental Policy: From Resource Utilization to Regulatory Oversight

Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on any device providing an in-depth analysis.

DEEP DIVE – Earth Day 2026

Listen to a “Debate” podcast on any device with a critical discussion about Earth Day.

DEBATE – Earth Day and the Environment

Mount Wachusett is Launching “The Mount Seed Library” on Earth Day

Mount Wachusett Community College will officially launch the Mount Seed Library on Tuesday, April 22nd in honor of Earth Day.

In a Press Release, MWCC noted: Co-sponsored by the MWCC LaChance Library and the Environmental Conservation and Regenerative Agriculture Program, The Mount Seed Library will be a resource for the community to “check out” seeds (saving and returning seeds is optional), encouraging biodiversity and promoting sustainability and community engagement through seed sharing, seed saving, and education.”

The Mount Seed Library founding will be celebrated with a launch and a seed swap event from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the LaChance Library. The event is open to students, faculty, staff, and the broader community. Attendees are invited to bring seeds to swap, enjoy refreshments, and explore the new library.

In addition to the seed library launch, MWCC will celebrate Earth Day with a Farmer’s Market from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Commons, and a workshop on seed starting with recycled materials from 4:30 to 5:30 pm in the LaChance Library.

The Mount Seed Library is the result of a collaborative, campus-wide effort involving MWCC staff and students, CAPS Collaborative students, and faculty in the environmental programs. The initiative also benefits from the guidance of librarians at the Mass Aggie Seed Library at UMass Amherst.

The library’s initial collection includes hundreds of seeds generously donated by The Good Earth Farm and Garden Center in Gardner, as well as seeds grown and harvested at the MWCC Greenhouse. Aubuchon Hardware in Gardner has also pledged future seed donations.

“The Mount Seed Library reflects our commitment to sustainability, education, and community connection,” said MWCC President James Vander Hooven. “It’s a resource that empowers individuals to grow their own food while learning about environmental stewardship.”

For more information about how the seed library works, to register for the event, and for seed library hours, please visit: The MWCC Seed Library packets will be available at the launch event on Earth Day.
National Pet Day 4-11-26 (4/10/2026)

Listen to this short “Deep Dive” about National Pet Day. The Chair Man and the Chair Man suggest doctors prescribe a shelter pet. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – National Pet Day – Adopt a Pet

National Pet Day is Saturday, April 11, 2026 in Greater Gardner MA

Why National Pet Day is More Than Just a Social Media Trend: 5 Surprising Truths

There is a specific kind of silence in a house that only the heartbeat of a pet can fill—the rhythmic thumping of a tail against a floorboard or the steady, vibrating hum of a cat curled in a sunbeam. For those of us who share our lives with animals, every day feels like a celebration of that bond. However, since 2006, April 11 has served as a global focal point for this connection. Founded as National Pet Day, this date has evolved from a simple excuse to post a photo on Social Media into a sophisticated platform for medical awareness and radical animal advocacy.

1. Your Pet is a Prescription for Heart Health

For years, pet owners have claimed their animals “heal” them, but over the last decade, science has finally caught up to the sentiment. Through a rigorous 10-year partnership, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been quantifying the physiological magic that happens when humans and animals interact. The research moved beyond mere observation, proving that our animal companions are essentially walking, breathing heart-health supplements.

The data confirms that the presence of a pet doesn’t just make us feel better emotionally; it physically alters our internal chemistry. By shifting our biological response to stress, pets act as a natural buffer against the wear and tear of modern life. As the research highlights:

It turns out that not only can pets steal our hearts, but they also contribute to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.

By reducing the “stress hormone” cortisol and stabilizing blood pressure, our pets are active contributors to our longevity. They aren’t just cute additions to the family; they are vital partners in our long-term physical wellness.

2. The Radical Origins of “Don’t Shop! Adopt!”

While we often use National Pet Day to pamper our own companions, the holiday was born from a more urgent, activist spirit. Established in 2006 by animal welfare advocate and lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, the day was designed to shine a light on the crisis of shelter animals. The core mission is summarized in three words: “Don’t Shop! Adopt!”

The brilliance of this holiday lies in how it uses the joy of current pet ownership as a bridge to advocacy. It challenges us to move beyond the private celebration of our own pets and look toward the animals still waiting in rescues for their “forever homes.” There is a powerful psychological shift that happens when we share our pets’ stories. When you tell a neighbor about the quirks of your rescued dog or the loyalty of a shelter cat, you aren’t just bragging—you are humanizing the “rescue” label. Personal stories are the most effective tools we have to dismantle the stigma of shelter animals and encourage others to choose adoption over breeders.

3. A Celebration for the “Scale and Feather” Crowd

One of the most refreshing aspects of National Pet Day is its radical inclusivity. This isn’t a holiday exclusively for the “cats and dogs” majority. The source of the holiday’s spirit is clear: every critter that provides companionship deserves its moment in the spotlight. Whether you want to hug your hedgehog, bond with your bunny, or cut your kitty some catnip, the day is about honoring the unique spark of animal connection in all its forms.

The holiday specifically recognizes the deep bonds formed with the “scale and feather” community, reminding us that companionship isn’t limited to traditional mammals: Hedgehogs, Bunnies, Reptiles, and Birds. By celebrating this diversity, we acknowledge that the emotional support provided by a bird or a reptile is just as valid as that of a golden retriever.

4. The “Love is an Action” Checklist

In the world of animal welfare, love is a verb. While National Pet Day is a perfect excuse for extra treats and new toys, the journalist in me must remind you that the most profound way to honor a pet is through the “boring” parts of ownership. True celebration includes ensuring their long-term security through a practical safety-oriented checklist. Check Pet Tags: Ensure contact information is current and hasn’t worn away. — Update Vaccinations: Use this date as an annual trigger to verify health check-ups are current. — Review Home Safety: Inspect your living environment for new hazards or wear and tear in fencing and crates. — It is easy to celebrate the fun moments, but the “Love is an Action” checklist is what ensures those moments continue for years to come. Security is the highest form of affection we can offer.

5. The Mental Health Miracle

The psychological benefits of pet ownership are often described as a miracle, but they are actually rooted in a beautiful reciprocity. Our pets provide a reliable anchor for emotional support and stress reduction, but the real magic lies in the routine they demand.

For many, a pet provides a “reason to get out of bed in the morning.” This isn’t just a cliché; it’s a vital mental health tool. A dog doesn’t care if you’re having a bad day—they still need their walk. This “forced” movement and outdoor activity serve the owner’s mental health as much as the pet’s physical health. We feed them, and in return, they provide us with a sense of purpose and a necessary rhythm to our lives. By meeting their needs, we inadvertently meet our own.

A Legacy of Companionship

National Pet Day is a testament to the fact that animals are not just “living in” our homes—they are the heart of them. While we spend April 11 honoring the furry, feathered, or scaly loved ones currently taking up space on our sofas, the ultimate legacy of this holiday is the push to help every shelter animal find that same security. As you celebrate your companion today, take a moment to reflect on the quiet ways they’ve reshaped your world: How has your pet changed your perspective on your own health or happiness?
Presidents’ Day 2026 (2/10/2026)

Presidents’ Day is Monday, February 16th in Greater Gardner MA

That’s what we call it, but officially in Massachusetts the actual name of the holiday is Washington’s Birthday. Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on the holiday on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Presidents’ Day

Local, state, and federal government offices are closed. The U.S. Post office, courts, and the stock market are closed. Open and having sales are retail stores around the region and around the country. Sales focus: Big ticket items such as mattresses, furniture, and televisions with most calling it a “Presidents’ Day Sale” even though the official name is Washington’s Birthday.

Want to know more? We have 2 separate reports on Presidents’ Day and a VIDEO. CLICK for page, CLICK HERE.
MLK Day 2026 (1/16/2026)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, January 19, 2026. Post Offices, City Hall, and Town offices are closed. Most retail is open. The Gardner City Council meeting will be on Tuesday, January 20th due to the holiday.

FULL COVERAGE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 19, 2026

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a United States Federal Holiday – Monday, January 19, 2026 – established to honor the life and legacy of the prominent civil rights leader. Observed annually on the 3rd Monday of January, the holiday commemorates King’s dedication to nonviolent activism and his role in achieving significant legislative reforms for racial equality. The legislation was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 despite significant political opposition and was not recognized by all 50 states until the year 2000. The Day is also designated as a National Day of Service. Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” about the holiday and a “Debate” explaining the various politics involved.

Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Listen to the “DEBATE” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Caroling with the Mayor 2025 (12/23/2025)

Caroling with the Mayor 2025

Caroling with the Mayor 2025 – Available is VIDEO and AUDIO of this beloved Gardner tradition.

Caroling with the Mayor 2025 is Released

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has released the 2025 “Caroling with the Mayor”, the annual virtual caroling event to celebrate the 2025 holiday season. Listen to the AUDIO on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Caroling with the Mayor 2025

Or if you wish, play the video right out of this page so you can see all the performers. Greater Gardner Community Choir opens it up with a performance from Handel’s Messiah “Unto Us a Child Is Born”. There’s a diverse array of musical performances from local schools, church groups, and community choirs showcasing the city’s artistic talent. Interspersed between the songs, the Mayor highlights various festive decorations within Gardner City Hall, including a tree honoring military members and entries from a departmental door-decorating contest. Mayor Michael Nicholson acknowledges the contributions of local organizations such as a task force dedicated to domestic violence awareness and prevention. The program concludes with a community-wide sing-along and a message of gratitude toward the citizens and staff who made the celebration possible. This annual program serves as a communal tribute to Gardner’s spirit and local traditions during the Christmas week.

If you watch Caroling with the Mayor on your phone, you can orient the phone so that you can view it wide screen. If you watch on the computer, you can make it go full screen for a better view. Or listen to the AUDIO we have provided.
Mayor’s Pre-Christmas Update (12/22/2025)

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson reviews holiday schedules: City Hall closed at noon on December 24th and closed Christmas Day and December 26th, closed at noon on December 31st and closed New Year’s Day and January 2nd. See infographic below for more information.

A Pre-Christmas Update from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – IMPORTANT Holiday Schedules

Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s December Update 12-22-25

Mayor Nicholson provides essential holiday information regarding City operations and special events, addressing holiday closures for City Hall and the local transfer station while also outlining an adjusted trash and recycling collection schedule for the final weeks of the year.

Residents are encouraged to register for the Code Red emergency alert system to receive accurate winter parking ban notifications following technical upgrades.

Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines several community traditions including a televised caroling program, the upcoming inauguration ceremony in January, and a discounted early-bird sponsorship for the City’s Downtown flower pots.

The Mayor concludes with a call for year-round charity and a preview of family-friendly library activities scheduled for the winter break.
Senior Center Activities Dec 25 (12/18/2025)

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with his caricature.

Some of the Activities at Busy Gardner Senior Center

Graphic shows various activities in December 2025 at the Gardner Senior Center. Local caricature artist Don Landgren Jr. stopped by December 17th and gave FREE drop-in caricatures. The Senior Center posted: “We were also thrilled to have special appearances from several local departments, including Mayor Nicholson and his team, who all stopped in to have their caricatures drawn!“

Middle photo shows the Senior Center holiday party on December 15th. Senior Center posted: “…afternoon was filled with holiday cheer, great music, delicious food, raffles, contests, and a fun holiday-themed game. We truly enjoyed celebrating the season together! A special thank you to The Terryrifics for spending the afternoon with us and sharing incredible jazz, blues, and holiday music.”

The American Red Cross came to the Gardner Senior Center and shared fire safety information. “
They reminded us that the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is the busiest time of year for home fires, due to increased cooking, more people in the home, cold weather, space heaters, and older holiday decorations.”

Some key takeaways from the Red Cross Fire Safety Tips: 1. Stay alert and avoid distractions while cooking. 2. Be aware pets an accidentally knock over candles and space heaters, creating a fire risk. 3. Keep Christmas trees watered and dispose of them when they dry out to avoid one of the biggest fire hazards 4. Lights and extension cords can be dangerous. 5. Smoke Alarms should be replaced every 10 years. The American Red Cross will install a detector for FREE. To schedule a free smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector installation, you can contact Luca at the American Red Cross at (774) 261-0581 or the Toll Free 24/7 Hotline at 800-RED-CROSS
Handel’s Messiah (12/16/2025)

Greater Gardner Community Choir Performs Handel’s Messiah

The Greater Gardner Community Choir delighted the audience at Perry Auditorium on December 14, 2025 with selections from Handel’s Messiah. (UPDATE: 12-21-25 AUDIO now includes complete performance) Listen to the AUDIO on any device in full STEREO, CLICK PLAY.

Handel’s Messiah – 12-14-25 – Complete Performance

From the Greater Gardner Community Choir website: “The Greater Gardner Community Choir is a non-auditioned mixed choir open to teens and adults of all backgrounds and abilities from Gardner, MA and surrounding communities. We sing varied programs of secular, sacred and popular accompanied choral music, and our Chamber Singers perform an array of acapella works. We are a member of the Central Massachusetts Choral Consortium, and a 501c3 non-profit organization.” Website, CLICK HERE.
Christmas All Over the World – original Song (12/15/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases original Traditional Christmas song: “Christmas All Over the World”

In the tradition of the songs you remember from when you were a child, this original song is intended to capture the magic of Christmas. Listen to “Christmas All Over the World” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS – Christmas All Over the World

From the song: “Christmas Time is once a year, And Christmas time is here. Christmas in our neighborhood, And Christmas All Over the World. It’s Christmas, It’s Christmas. Christmas All Over the World. It’s Christmas, It’s Christmas. Christmas All Over the World.”

Gardner Magazine has a page of original Christmas Songs, CLICK HERE. In addition to Christmas All over the World, listen to Song of the Season, Snow Day, Christmas Garden, Light the Tree, I Saw a Snowflake, Sneaky Snow, A Christmas Memory, A Chair City Christmas, Christmas Wish for Peace, A Gardner Christmas Wish, The Gift of Christmas, and Officially Christmas in Gardner.CLICK HERE.
Deep Dive – History of Christmas (12/14/2025)

A Gardner Magazine “Deep Dive” – The History of Christmas

This podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady takes a Deep Dive into the History of Christmas. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – The History of Christmas

The celebration of Christmas with all of its traditions has evolved over a couple thousand years since the birth of Jesus Christ. As stated in the “Deep Dive”, it’s a complex tapestry woven from ancient religious mandates, shifting political calendars, and even a fair amount of Medieval mischief. Christmas is the annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ observed primarily on December 25th. It’s a public holiday for billions, including many non-Christians. The “Deep Dive, History of Christmas” goes beyond the tinsel and delves into historical detail.

Merry Christmas!
Holiday Spotlight (12/11/2025)

A Community Christmas Holiday Spotlight

The Gardner PD recognized two young men (shown in photo collage) who once again raised money to help others: “…A huge shout-out to two incredible young men who, for the third year in a row, raised money and purchased essential items for the homeless and those in need. Their efforts year after year—are nothing short of inspiring. It’s young people like them who remind us that even small acts of generosity can make a big difference. Thank you both for continuing to lead by example and for showing our community what it means to care. We are proud of you!!!”

The Gardner Senior Center hosted the Hubbardston Singers who performed an afternoon of Christmas songs on December 10th. “Our Golden Agers had an amazing time Thank you for sharing your talent and bringing the spirit of the season to our community!” Here’s a sampling of their singing for any device, CLICK PLAY.

Hubbardston Singers 12-10-25

Two Upcoming Events

A Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the Acadian Social Club on Parker Street in Gardner. Benefits the Andrew Boucher Scholarship Fund. Bake Sale, 50/50 Raffle, and Chance Auction.

Caroling with the Mayor will be held on December 22, 2025 at 4pm . “Everyone knows that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear!” Complimentary Hot Chocolate and Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Front of Gardner City Hall from 5 to 7pm.
FREE Wrapping (12/8/2025)

Got the Gifts but not the Wrap? – Here’s How to Wrap for FREE!

The Levi Heywood Memorial Library has opened its FREE Wrapping Station which is available during regular library hours.

The library posted: “The Library’s Wrapping Station is OPEN! Now through December 23, stop by during regular library hours and take advantage of our free gift-wrapping station in our Exhibit Gallery! We provide the wrapping paper, tape, tags, ribbons, and supplies — you bring the gifts. Wrap them here and leave ready for the holidays! Come add a little sparkle to your season at the library.”
Holiday Cheer at Heywood (12/8/2025)

Heywood Employees and Community Members Spread Some Holiday Cheer

Heywood Healthcare CEO Roxanna Penney, Santa Clause from the North Pole, employees of Heywood Hospital, and community members celebrated a bit of Holiday Cheer on December 7, 2025 in the front lobby of Heywood Hospital in Gardner.

The hospital posted: “Holiday Cheer with Santa at Heywood! Yesterday, our Heywood Lobby was transformed into a magical winter wonderland as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, Cindy Lou Who, the Grinch, and a team of elves brought holiday joy to our community! From cookie decorating to festive photos, the event was filled with laughter, smiles, and so much holiday spirit. We are incredibly grateful to our amazing employees and the community members who joined us to make this event so special. Check out the photos from this unforgettable afternoon of holiday fun!“

Song of the Season – Original Song (12/6/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases an original Christmas song “Song of the Season”

This original Christmas song is a creative Male-Female Duet with a traditional theme. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

POP CHRISTMAS – Song of the Season

From the song: (Complete Lyrics below) “This is the song of the season, Christmas Time is here, The Birth of Jesus is the reason, We celebrate this year. Christ Jesus is the reason for the song of the season, Christmas Time is here and Jesus is the reason, Any gift received will never reach the value, Of the birth of Jesus Christ to me and you.”

{Verse 1} Shoppers gather buying gifts, Snowflakes scatter making drifts, Christmas lights adorn the town, The Holidays is the most-used noun.	{Verse 2} The festivities are so much fun, Like Reindeer Rudolph on the run, Or Santa Claus in a big red suit, And Christmas cookies oh so cute.	{Chorus} This is the song of the season, Christmas Time is here, The Birth of Jesus is the reason, We celebrate this year.	{Verse 5} Christ Jesus is the reason for the song of the season, Christmas Time is here and Jesus is the reason, Any gift received will never reach the value, Of the birth of Jesus Christ to me and you.
{Chorus} This is the song of the season, Christmas Time is here, The Birth of Jesus is the reason, We celebrate this year.	{Verse 3} Families gather for the holiday, Enjoying each other’s company, With a special meal and special treats, And children hard to keep in their seats.	{Verse 4} Christmas Carols exalt the miracle, Of the world’s holiest spectacle, The Birth of a Savior for all mankind, Bringing salvation for all to find.	{Chorus} This is the song of the season, Christmas Time is here, The Birth of Jesus is the reason, We celebrate this year.

Hotline 12-6-25 (12/6/2025)

Holidays – Events – Spirit of Giving – AI, Topics of Hotline Radio Show of December 6, 2025

Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY

WGAW Hotline Radio Show 12-6-25

Highlights of the program included: Michael Nicholson – Topics: Caroling with the Mayor on December 22^nd 4-5pm, 5-7pm FREE Carriage Rides — Snow Readiness – Salt fully loaded in new Salt Shed and using up salt in old salt shed. – Parking Meters not enforced in month of December – Status of Code Red: back up and running. Steve Wendell discussed the new Code Red System with the Mayor and the various initial glitches in extra calls which have been resolved. — Baptist Church Lunch – Christmas Toy Drive by Gardner CAC and Food Drive by MVOC – Last Day of Festival of Trees – Monday Christmas Sing-a-long at Gardner Senior Center. The Mayor went over other Christmas events “A month of giving for us here”.

The Mayor thanked departing City Auditor John Richard for his exceptional service to the City of Gardner. He also thanked the other members of the financial staff at Gardner City Hall for upholding the fiduciary responsibility to the taxpayers – Job openings in the City of Gardner –

Other Hotline Segments in the first hour: A Special Report: AI Julia McCoy – AI Fundamental Shift — St. Nicholas Day Commentary with Werner Poegel — 2^nd Hour: Paul Topolski – Gardner Emergency Management on Winter Preparation and Advice – a discussion of the Amateur Radio hobby — Mike Urban: Auditing of Massachusetts Legislature – Julie Mehan of the Gardner CAC on the Christmas Toy Drive.(deadline is December 15th)
GAAMHA Trees 2025 (11/27/2025)

GAAMHA Says “Buying a Tree Saves a Goat” as Christmas Tree Lot opens for season

Our graphic shows the Christmas Tree lot in 2024 and a posting advertising the lot opening on Friday November 28, 2025. Hours are 11am to 8pm and the location is 827 Green Street (Route 140) in Gardner. Proceeds are used to support GAAMHA’s operation at the location including the animals. Pricing varies depending upon size of tree.

GAAMHA posted: “…Get ready to find your perfect Christmas centerpiece! We are thrilled to announce that Gardner’s #1 Christmas Tree Lot officially opens this Black Friday! Skip the mall chaos and kick off the holiday season with the fresh scent of a beautiful, hand-picked tree. We have the freshest selection of premium, high-quality Christmas trees, from classic Balsam Firs to stunning Frasers, all ready for your holiday decorations. Bring the family and make finding your tree an annual tradition! We can’t wait to see you!“

Gardner Magazine spoke with Jim Hunt on Friday, November 28th while snow flurries were coming down. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Jim Hunt – GAAMHA – 11-28-25
Thanksgiving Holiday (11/23/2025)

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Gardner Magazine Explores in Detail the History of the Thanksgiving Holiday

What is religious or was it secular? Did a feast involving the Pilgrims and Native Americans actually take place? The answer is complicated and deserves a telling of the whole story. Gardner Magazine has an exclusive report with a single narrator “Evolution of a National Tradition – Report on Thanksgiving in the United States. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

REPORT – Thanksgiving in the United States

You can also read the written report on which the narration is based, CLICK HERE. Not to be outdone, we also have a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discussing the history, origin, and evolution of Thanksgiving. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has a complex history. As our report states: The modern holiday is a complex tapestry woven from historical fact, political action, national myth, and commercial influence—a tradition continuously reshaped to reflect the nation’s evolving identity and values.

Publisher Werner Poegel also has a Thanksgiving commentary expressing gratitude and also covering various Holiday events in Gardner. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Thanksgiving Commentary and Holiday Events – Werner Poegel

Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of you in the Greater Gardner MA area…and beyond!
I Saw a Snowflake (11/21/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases an original Christmas Song: “I Saw a Snowflake”

Have you ever looked at a single snowflake and realized just how beautiful it is and how much of God’s work went in to it? The original song “I Saw a Snowflake” explores this example of intelligent design. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

FEMALE VOCAL – I Saw a Snowflake

DUET – I Saw a Snowflake

MALE VOCAL – I Saw a Snowflake

From the song: “I Saw a Snowflake,It meant everything to me, I Saw a Snowflake, I was awed by its beauty…A snowflake, a snowflake, Designed with love from God Above, A snowflake, a snowflake, Bringing forth some Christmas Love.”
Hotline 11-15-25 (11/15/2025)

THANKSGIVING Turkey Trot with Candy Graves and Winter Preparation with Gardner Civil Defense Director Paul Topolski on WGAW Hotline Radio of November 15, 2025

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

The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of November 15th featured an ABC Report on the Government Shutdown with a focus on SNAP Benefits. Steve Wendell interviewed Candy Graves on the 46th Annual Turkey Trot Race taking place on November 27th. The fundraiser for track and field groups starts at Gardner City Hall. There was an ABC Report on weight loss drugs. Paul Topolski spoke with Steve Wendell about Winter Preparation. Mike Urban had a report on Home Energy prices. Werner Poegel had a commentary on National Philanthropy Day.
Veterans Day 2025 (11/12/2025)

Gardner Veterans Day Ceremony

A Veterans Day Ceremony was held on November 11, 2025 at 11am in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Listen to the ceremony on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Steve Wendell served as MC and Keynote Speaker as State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and MVOC Director Stephanie Marchetti scooted off to Winchendon to finish off the ceremony there. Speakers at the Gardner ceremony included Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, City Council President George Tyros, Steve Wendell, and Niqui LaViolette.

Music from the Gardner High School Band included America the Beautiful, a medley of Armed Forces Service Anthems, and there was a Poem recital “In Flanders Fields”

Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated in a post after the ceremony: “Thank you to the Gardner Veterans Council for organizing today’s Veterans Day Ceremony at City Hall! Thank you to all of our veterans for your sacrifice and service both while in uniform and the ways you’ve continued to serve our communities after. I’m proud to be the mayor of a City that does so much to honor those who have served.”
Festival Trees 2025 (11/9/2025)

Gardner Museum 20th Annual Festival of Trees Set to Begin November 12th

Gardner Museum 2025 Festival of Trees runs from November 12^th through December 6^th. The Festival of Trees features beautiful displays of Christmas Trees, fabulous holiday displays, and such items as gift baskets. Whatever is donated is raffled off and proceeds benefit the Gardner Museum.

Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays 1pm to 4pm, Fridays 1pm to 7pm, Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 4pm. The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner.

The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for the Gardner Museum. Win a fabulous tree or other donated item by purchasing raffle tickets. Drawing starts December 6^th at 3pm. The cost for 1 sheet of tickets is $5 which includes admission (you can buy more tickets if desired). If you decide to just look at the displays, the museum’s regular admission of $3 applies.
Happy Veterans Day – original Song (11/6/2025)

To each and every veteran: Thank you for your service. This original song is for you.

Veterans Day Services take place at 11am on November 11th in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall.

Gardner Magazine releases the original song “Happy Veterans Day”

It is a tribute to all veterans. The original song, “Happy Veterans Day” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Original song – Happy Veterans Day

Veterans Day is November 11, 2025. Without the brave men and women willing to fight for us since 1776, we wouldn’t be the country we our today. Thank you for your service.

From the song: “On the 11^th hour of the 11^th day,Of the Month of November we say, Happy Veterans Day, Happy Veterans Day….Veterans, we salute you for your service, Veterans, we thank you for your sacrifice, Veterans, we are grateful for what you have done, Veterans, Thank you for every war you have won. … Veterans, we salute you for your service, When we’re at peace we still do notice, Veterans, we are grateful for conflicts avoided, Because of you, before they begin, many wars are voided. … Veterans, we understand some carry a big burden, … Living with the horrors of what you have seen, Veterans, let us open that difficult curtain, Embracing you with the love of a nation.”

Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” podcast on Veterans Day with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady covering the history of the holiday in depth. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Veterans Day
Deep Dive – Columbus Day (10/13/2025)

A “Deep Dive” on the Columbus Day Holiday in the U.S. and other Countries

Listen to the “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Columbus Day
Song – Independence Day (7/3/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases an original 4^th of July song “Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day”

“Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)” is an original patriotic song for the 4^th of July. The song celebrates America. We’re releasing it in the following versions: Pop Duet, Modern Country, Patriotic Rock, Patriotic Orchestral Overture, and Traditional.

POP DUET – Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)

MODERN COUNTRY – Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)

PATRIOTIC ROCK – Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)

ORCHESTRAL OVERTURE – Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)

TRADITIONAL – Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)

from Publisher Werner Poegel: “I wrote this with a love of the greatest nation on earth. I wrote this with a profound love for America. On this 4^th of July as we celebrate Independence Day, let us rejoice and let us recognize how lucky we are to be Americans.”

Happy 4^th of July! — Happy Independence Day!

From the song: “It is self-evident that all are created equal,and Another two hundred years will be America’s sequel,Living life with liberty and the pursuit of happiness,With a government given all of its rights from us.”
Not Just Another Day – It’s Independence Day (7/3/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases “Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)”

Listen to the original song in celebration of the birth of the United States of America on any device, CLICK PLAY.

POP DUET – Not Just Another Day

TRADITIONAL – Not Just Another Day

ORCHESTRAL – Not Just Another Day

PATRIOTIC ROCK – Not Just Another Day

MODERN COUNTRY – Not Just Another Day
Juneteenth 2025 (6/18/2025)

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

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

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

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

SOFT POP – Sentient Soul

BALLAD – Sentient Soul

COUNTRY AMERICANA – Sentient Soul

CHAMBER POP – Sentient Soul

ROCKABILLY – Sentient Soul

CLASSIC ROCK – Sentient Soul

ELECTRO-SWING – Sentient Soul

ORCHESTRAL – Sentient Soul
Memorial Parade 2025 (5/26/2025)

Gardner MA Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies 2025

Listen to AUDIO of Memorial Day Ceremonies, CLICK PLAY

Memorial Day 2025

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies Held in Gardner

Gardner Mayor Nicholson posted these photos on Memorial Day and stated, “Thank you to everyone who came out to today’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. I’m proud to be the mayor of a City that does so much to honor and remember the sacrifice and service of our veterans. May all those who served our Country and are no longer with us rest in the peace they served to protect.”
Mother’s Day 2025 (5/4/2025)

Happy Mother’s Day

May 11, 2025

Gardner Magazine Releases original “Mother’s Day” for May 11, 2025 – Mother’s Day 2025

“What a joy to be loved so much, be embraced with my mother’s touch, entering the world with so much love, I was the miracle from God above.”

Listen to any version on any device. CLICK PLAY.

EMOTIONAL POP – Mother’s Day

SOUL – FUNK – Mother’s Day

CLASSIC 60’S – Mother’s Day

SOFT ROCK – Mother’s Day

POP ROCK – Mother’s Day

POP – FEMALE – Mother’s Day
Patriot’s Day 2025 (4/20/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases “Flag of Patriot’s Day” to Celebrate 250th Anniversary of original Patriot’s Day

What better way to celebrate Patriot’s Day than with this original celebratory song. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Flag of Patriot’s Day – 2025

In April 1775, soldiers fought the inaugural battles of Lexington and Concord in the American Revolutionary War. 250 years later, we are celebrating Patriot’s Day on April 21, 2025.

Gardner City Hall and town offices throughout the region are closed.

Happy Patriot’s Day!
Easter song (4/19/2025)

Happy Easter! – Gardner Magazine Releases “The Easter Song – Life from Death”

About 2 thousand years ago at a single tomb, the life of Jesus was about to resume because of a miracle conceived by God as a gift to the human race. Easter is celebrated because Jesus rose from the dead. This song is intended to honor the miracle we are afforded through Christ. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

The Easter Song – Life from Death

Happy Easter to All!
April Tools (3/30/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases “April Tools Day” just in time for April Fools Day

Spring is here and Spring projects abound. Why waste a day when you can have April Tools Day. Listen to the original song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

POP Funk – April Tools Day

From the song: “Give me a wrench or a brand new drill, a nice tool bench would be better still, I’m in for the tools and not the fools, on this day the best tool rules….It’s April Tools Day, even the fools say it’s April Tools Day.”

This year on April 1st celebrate April Tools Day!
Luck of the Irish (3/16/2025)

Gardner Magazine Releases “Luck of the Irish” for St. Patrick’s Day.

Our original Irish Folk Song for St. Patrick’s Day is “Luck of the Irish”. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Luck of the Irish – IRISH FOLK SONG

From the song’s chorus, “The Luck of the Irish, will grant your wish, the Luck of the Irish, on Saint Patrick’s Day.”

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2025. Good luck to you and yours in the coming year!
Song – Presidents (2/12/2025)

The Long song versions took many, many hours of work to research the historical fact and edit about a dozen or so individual parts into the final songs.

HAPPY PRESIDENTS DAY!

An Ambitious Release in Honor of Presidents Day

Presidents Day is Monday February 17, 2025. Most City Halls and Town Offices will be closed for the Federal Holiday. Gardner Magazine is releasing “Song of the Presidents” – a normal length tune as well as our ambitious project, the “Symphony Song of the Presidents” which runs more than 1/2 hour long. Entire Lyrics of both compositions are on this page, CLICK HERE.

Baroque Pop – Song of the Presidents

CLASSIC ROCK – Song of the Presidents

Symphony – Song of the Presidents

CLASSIC ROCK – Symphony Song of the Presidents
Black History Month 2025 (2/4/2025)

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:

Black History Month 2025

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.”
Groundhog Day (2/1/2025)

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.

Groundhog Day – song

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.

Groundhog Day – SPECIAL REPORT
First Baby 2025 (1/3/2025)

A Photo of the First Baby of 2025 born at Heywood Hospital

Alexandra Hunt is the proud mother of baby girl Adyline Hunt born at the Lachance Maternity Center at Heywood Hospital on January 1, 2025 at 7:39am. Adyline weighed 7 lbs. 3 oz. and measured 21 inches long.

Heywood Hospital offered congratulations in a post “Congratulations to Alexandra Hunt on the arrival of her New Year’s baby! Welcome to the world, baby girl Adyline!… Wishing you and your family all the best as you begin this new chapter!”

Heywood Hospital has one of the lowest c-section rates in the state of Massachusetts. It also describes itself as a “birthing friendly” hospital.

For more information about the Lachance Maternity Center at Heywood Hospital, please visit their website for all the details, CLICK HERE.
New Year ’25 (12/30/2024)

A Happy New Year Wish from Gardner Magazine

To our readers: We wish you all the best in 2025. If you’re making New Year’s resolutions, try this on for size: “Gettin’ Ready for the New Year”. Play on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Gettin’ Ready for the New Year

Don’t forget: We love to hear about the activities of your non-profit, church, School Group, class, Police Department, Fire Department, you name it. Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com
Christmas 2024 (12/24/2024)

Images of different versions of “A Christmas Wish for Peace”

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Merry Christmas in Original Song from Gardner Magazine

Gardner Magazine has released a number of Christmas songs this season. “A Christmas Memory” was released on Christmas Day. Merry Christmas to You.

Christmas Song Releases

A Christmas Memory – released Christmas Day 2024 – lyrics click here

BALLAD – A Chair City Christmas more versions click here…

Christmas Wish for Peace – more versions click here

A Gardner Christmas Wish Lyrics, CLICK HERE

The Gift of Christmas – Song page and lyrics, click here

Officially Christmas in Gardner, lyrics click here

Feel Good Songs About Gardner

Heroes of Gardner are Everywhere, lyrics CLICK HERE

For the New Year

Gettin’ Ready for the New Year, lyrics CLICK HERE

Thank you to our First Responders

Please visit our Complete Odyssey of First Responders Page, CLICK HERE

Complete Odyssey of First Responders

The Odyssey incorporates various musical genres including the Blues for the Men and Women in Blue, Jazz for Firefighters with Pizzazz, Rock for the EMT’s who Rock, Country for DPW – Public Works, K-Pop for Lifeguards, and Patriotic for the Military. Individual songs available on the page, CLICK HERE. Merry Christmas and a big THANK YOU!
Caroling 2024 (12/23/2024)

Gardner Releases Caroling with the Mayor Video

Gardner has released the 2024 Caroling with the Mayor Video. You’ll hear Mayor Nicholson singing and various participants from throughout Gardner including Bands and Choirs from the Schools, Churches, and area organizations. Mayor Nicholson even plays the trumpet at the end of the program in a song tribute. The video is worth watching and we’ve have embedded it here, but there’s also AUDIO for any device. CLICK PLAY.

Caroling with the Mayor 2024
Listen to Scrooge (12/21/2024)

Gardner Magazine Presents “Scrooge”

We have two presentations, one is a rather long version of Scrooge from a 1935 movie. The other is a radio play entitled “A Christmas Carol” done in 1939 featuring Lionel Barrymore. Listen to either or both on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Scrooge AUDIO of 1935 Movie:

Scrooge 1935

A Christmas Carol, 1939:

A Christmas Carol 1939

Ebenezer Scrooge is a fictional character in Charles Dickens’s 1843 novel, A Christmas Carol. Scrooge starts out as a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas. The story is about his redemption after he gets visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.
Gift of Christmas (12/20/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases “The Gift of Christmas”

This Christmas song was written by Werner Poegel. Music and Vocals by sophisticated AI. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

The Gift of Christmas

Christmas is a special time of year with glowing lights and Christmas sights. Celebrations are held around the world. Christmas sounds are all around and family parties certainly abound. Stores are packed and sell their wares. But Christmas hopes someone cares about the most important gift of Christmas. the Salvation through Jesus Christ. This song is intended to revere the true meaning of Christmas as the package of salvation is unsealed. Remember Christ’s love never ends. Merry Christmas to all of you. Song page and lyrics, CLICK HERE.

Werner Poegel, Publisher.
Update 12-13-24 (12/13/2024)

Decorations at Gardner City Hall

A Holiday Season Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Listen to the December 13, 2024 update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 12-13-24

EVENTS – Saturday December 14th: Good Earth Farm and Garden Center on West Broadway hosts Santa Claus from 10am to 2pm. —- Sun. December 15th: Winter Carnival with Elsa and Anna at the Black Dove Art Studio from 3pm to 5pm. — Tues. Dec. 17th is Senior Center Christmas Caroling Sing Along from 1:30 to 3pm. —- Weds. December 18th: Library has Pajama Story Time with Santa Claus at 6pm —- Weds. December 18th: Gardner High School Winter Concert being held at the gym at 7pm. —- December 19th: Annual Christmas Lights Tour on horse-drawn carriage from 4pm to 6pm, ride is FREE and leaves from Gardner City Hall.

Food/Clothing/Toy Drive in Gardner City Hall Rotunda going on now to benefit the Gardner CAC. Please bring in donations by December 23rd.

Looking Ahead: House of Peace and Education hosts a night of games on Friday, January 3rd from 6:30 to 8:30pm.
Update 12-6-24 (12/6/2024)

Holiday Season Underway in Gardner and the Mayor has plenty to say in Update to City

Gardner Mayor Nicholson provided an uplifting look at Holiday themes and events in Gardner during the update of December 6, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 12-6-24

Invitation to view decorations: As he did his update from the Gardner City Hall Rotunda, the Mayor invited all to stop by and check it out at City Hall, the Rotunda, and Perry Auditorium. The Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force has been setting up white and purple Christmas Trees to raise awareness of resources. Another tree in the Rotunda is dedicated to all veterans stationed at various places around the globe.

View the numerous events mentioned in the update in the list below.

Numerous Events: Gardner Square Two 23rd Annual Memorial Lights campaign continues and helps pay for the Christmas lights decorating the various trees at Monument Park, Lafayette Square, and even the wreaths put on the Victorian light posts. —- The Mayor thanked those who participated in the recent Tree Lighting —- The Sound of Music is currently running at the Mount — Final day of the Gardner Museum Festival of Trees is December 7th. —- The Senior Center Christmas Party and Christmas Concert will take place on Monday, December 9th from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. —-Escort for the Wreaths Across America on their stop here in Gardner on their way to Arlington Cemetery. 5:30pm, Monday December 9th at MWCC. —- The Gardner Middle School Band Concert is going to be taking place on Tuesday, December 10th at 6 p.m. —- The Gardner Middle School Chorus Concert is going to take place on Thursday, December 12th at 6 p.m. —- Gardner Elementary School PTO a showing of the Polar Express at Gardner Cinemas. Tuesday, December 17th at 6 p.m. —- Gardner High School Winter Concert Wednesday, December 18th at 7 p.m. —-Library is doing a Pajama Storytime with Santa Claus Wednesday, December 18th from 6 to 6 45 p.m. —- Gardner CAC accepting donations of unwrapped Christmas gifts for children, non-perishable food donations, and clothing items with a special need for winter coats.
Wish for Peace (12/4/2024)

Christmas Wish for Peace Song Released

18 versions available at our original songs page. We hope one version moves you, captures your heart, and inspires you to share the quest for peace with others. Visit this song, CLICK HERE.

May you find Peace this Christmas season and throughout the year…
Hotline 11-30-24 (11/30/2024)

WGAW Hotline Show with Split Themes Hour 1: Holidays, and Hour 2: Various Reports

WGAW Hotline Host Steve Wendell runs down some Holiday Events. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson speaks about Holiday events in Gardner including the Holiday Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 1st which starts with lining up at Gardner City Hall at 4pm. MVOC’s Stephanie Marchetti speaks about a Holiday Gift Award and on help for veterans. Listen to the show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 11-30-24

Library Director Stephanie Young reported on the Levi Heywood Memorial Library. Werner Poegel reported on Presidents of the United States since 1885. M.L. Altobelli from Good Earth Farm and Garden Center gave a comprehensive report on Tree Health in an interview with host Steve Wendell.

Hotline Radio is heard every Saturday from noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1FM and on the 24/7 LIVE STREAM.
GAAMHA Trees (11/29/2024)

The Joy of a Christmas Tree Found at the GAAMHA Lot on Route 140

For the 2nd year in a row, GAAMHA is operating a popular Christmas Tree Lot at the farm on Route 140. With attractive trees, easy parking, and cordial help and assistance, GAAMHA says it’s the Number 1 Christmas Tree lot in the area. Proceeds benefit GAAMHA programs. Gardner Magazine says it’s fit for a song called “A GAAMHA Christmas Tree” Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

JAZZ – DO Wop Version

POP Version

Christmas Tree prices range from $30 for a 3 to 4 foot tree all the way up to $90 for an 8 to 9 foot tree with various prices for other sizes in the middle. The Lot is open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: Thursdays and Fridays from 3 pm to 7 pm and 8 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

GAAMHA is also selling some unique Christmas Tree Ornaments and has a Horse Calendar available.

Update 11-22-24 (11/22/2024)

Gardner Mayor Nicholson with a Holiday-Themed Update

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updated the Chair City on November 22, 2024. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Update 11-22-24

UPDATE: in the Mayor’s Update, the wrong date is given for the wrapping station at the library. The correct date is Saturday December 21st from 10am to noon.

Mayor Nicholson opened the update congratulating Gardnerites who are marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this coming week.

The Mayor spoke about a letter which went out to offer guidance to people who might have lead in their private pipes. Mayor Nicholson stated “there is no lead in Gardner’s water” Report available on the City of Gardner website.

Square Two 23rd Annual Fund Drive for our Memorial Lights is underway. A wonderful opportunity to make a contribution to honor family members and friends, or show your holiday spirit and community pride. The forms for this are at Gardner City Hall, John’s Sport Shop, and The Velvet Goose.

19th Annual Festival of Trees is taking place at the Gardner Museum until Saturday, December 7th. Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4, Fridays 1 to 7, Saturdays and Sundays 10 to 4 p.m.

Date	Event Description
Saturday 11-23-24	Special Thanksgiving Farmers Market 10am to 1pm at Perry Auditorium – rear of Gardner City Hall – Everything from vegetables, produce, turkeys, knick-knacks, little crafts…
Saturday 11-23-24	First annual Fill a Cruiser food drive event this year in support of the Gardner CAC. Gardner Police Department at 200 Main Street on Saturday, November 23rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Holiday Hours	City Hall is going to be closing at noon Wednesday November 27th. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Friday November 29th.
Saturday 11-30-24	Small Business Saturday, nationally recognized on Saturday, November 30th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday 12-1-24	Holiday Stroll and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 1st, from 4 p.m. to about 6 p.m. Meeting first at the front steps of Gardner City Hall, where the Gardner High School Wildcat Marching Band will be playing some selections.
Saturday 12-21-24	Saturday, December 21st, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., there’s a wrapping station at the Gardner Library for all ages, co-sponsored by the Gardner High School Leo Club.

Wooden Flags (11/11/2024)

Patriotism and Love for Veterans Is Alive at Gardner High School

Veterans protect our country from adversaries who would harm us and who would disrupt the lives of our youngest to our oldest. Students in a class at Gardner High took the time to salute our nation’s heroes by making unique wooden flags.

GHS posted, “Students in our Advanced Woodworking class made these beautiful wooden flags and presented them today to Cory Hasselmann, the Director of Veterans Services. It was a great project for our students and a nice way to thank our local veterans. Community at its best.”

Happy Veterans Day
Veterans Day 2024 (11/7/2024)

Veterans Day is Monday November 11, 2024. Area communities have events starting as early as Thursday, November 7th.

Veterans Day 2024 is Monday November 11^th

It is a day we honor men and women who have served in the United States military and thank them for preserving the freedoms we all enjoy. City and town offices are closed on Veterans Day.

Gardner: Veterans Day Exercises will be held at 11am in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. The Gardner Elks Lodge is having a Veterans Turkey Raffle Friday November 8^th at 7pm with proceeds benefitting our veterans. Doors open at 6pm, raffle starts at 7pm. In addition, the Gardner Elks will host a Veterans Ceremony Sunday, November 10^th at 10am honoring “our veterans past and present.”

Winchendon: Winchendon American Legion Ceremony at 11am honors veterans in the community. Coming up on December 13, 2024 at 9am the Winchendon Wreath Fund will lay wreaths on the graves of fallen heroes at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Hubbardston: Purple Heart Ceremony on Saturday November 9^th at noon on the Hubbardston common. From the town of Hubbardston website “The Town of Hubbardston is proud to be designated as a Purple Heart Town, honoring the courage and sacrifice of our service members who were wounded or lost in combat. Join us in recognizing the bravery of Hubbardston residents who have been awarded the Purple Heart.”

Westminster: Veterans and Scouts meet at the VFW Veterans Monument just prior to 11am to hold a period of reflection and thanks to all Veterans who have served and are still serving.

Ashburnham: Prior to Veterans Day on Thursday, November 7^th, the Stevens Memorial Library hosts a discussion about the significance of national service from 6:30 to 7:30pm. From the library website, “Please join us for a discussion of the importance and impact of national service. A panel of Ashburnham veterans will talk about their experiences in uniform and how their service shaped their lives. The panel will be hosted by Brigadier General (retired) Paul “Greg” Smith, who will also offer readings from his recently published book, “Confessions of a Weekend Warrior: 35 Years in the National Guard.” Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing (A portion of the proceeds will benefit Montachusett Veterans’ Outreach, Inc.)”
Chair City Christmas (10/27/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases an Original Christmas Song

Publisher Werner Poegel wrote “A Chair City Christmas” to share what is truly special about the City of Gardner at Christmas. There are 3 versions: Traditional, Soft-Rock, and Country EZ below and other 15 versions on the Chair City Christmas page.. Listen on any device and/or download. There are a total of 18 different versions across various genres. Go to the “A Chair City Christmas” page, CLICK HERE.

A Chair City Christmas – Traditional

A Chair City Christmas – Soft Rock

A Chair City Christmas – Country, EZ

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.
Columbus 2024 (10/13/2024)

Happy Columbus Day

Columbus Day, and Indigenous People’s Day is celebrated on Monday, October 14, 2024.

Gardner City Hall, various town offices, and the post office are closed.

For more on Columbus Day, Christopher Columbus, and Indigenous People’s Day, CLICK HERE.
Memorial Ceremony 2024 (5/27/2024)

Gardner MA Holds Memorial Day Ceremony

On Memorial Day 2024, May 27, 2024, Gardner had a parade with a ceremony at Monument Park. The event featured distinguished service members, public officials, and the public gathering to honor those who have served and who we remember. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

To view video, click play button below.
Honor Never Expires (5/27/2024)

Listen to this story on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Ghosts of the Chosin Honor Never Expires

A Hero is Returned – Jacob Casavant’s story of his great uncle, Army Corporal William C. Knight.

26 Year old Jacob James Casavant of Winchendon has a story to tell about just one of America’s heroes. He was kind enough to share this with Gardner Magazine. It’s called, “Ghosts of the Chosin” Honor Never Expires and it’s about his late great uncle Army Corporal William C. Knight who was flown home after being MIA from the Korean War. We thought it only fitting to publish this story on Memorial Day as we honor all of the fallen who have given so much to preserve America’s freedoms.

“Ghosts of the Chosin” Honor Never Expires

The tarmac at Logan International airport stretched out before us as we stood in solemn anticipation. The Boeing 737, touched down with a sense of gravity that echoed the weight of history onboard. Shrouded in a flag that bore the stars and stripes, lay the remains of a hero – my great uncle, Army Cpl. William C. Knight. After sixty-three years of being missing in action from the Korean War, his journey home was finally over.

Cpl. Knight was a young man of just twenty when he was killed in action in December 1950, he fell at the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. His remains were lost in the annals of war until a mass grave was unearthed in North Korea in 2002. It took until 2013 for modern science, in the form of DNA testing, to definitively identify his remains. With due honor, his body was brought home to be laid to rest alongside his parents in the peaceful soil of Oakham, Massachusetts. Yet, there was an omission, a haunting reminder of the horrors of war: North Korea refused to return his skull to American soil, a stark symbol of the inhumanity that lingers long after the battle’s last shots.

The Battle of the Chosin Reservoir is etched in history as one of the most brutal and unforgiving chapters of American military engagements. The unforgiving terrain, relentless enemy advances, and merciless cold stand out in the collective memory. It was on the 14th of November 1950 that a brutal Siberian cold front descended upon the Chosin Reservoir, driving temperatures down to a bone-chilling -36 °F. Soldiers not only faced the threat of the enemy but also the creeping danger of frostbite as they trudged through frozen ground and icy roads. The weapons, essential for their survival, often malfunctioned under the extreme conditions.

Cpl. Knight’s story, as recounted within my family, unfolds against this backdrop of a frozen hellscape. Under a storm of ice and enemy fire, Cpl. Knight took a selfless moment to assist a comrade with a rifle malfunction and, in a cruel twist of fate, was felled by an enemy bullet. The Chinese forces, numerically superior and wielding burp guns and grenades, swarmed the American positions with bugles blaring, an eerie symphony of death. The bravery exhibited by the U.S. soldiers at Chosin is almost beyond words. Out of 25,000 American troops, a staggering 6,000 were killed, wounded, or captured, while another 6,000 suffered the cruel embrace of frostbite. The Chinese, despite their eventual victory, paid a terrible price – 72,500 casualties, 60% of their 120,000 strong army. The Chosin Reservoir marked a pivotal moment, taking General MacArthur and the United Nations forces completely by surprise, and instantaneously reshaping the trajectory of the war.

My grandfather, a young boy when his brother embarked on his fateful journey to war, had aged into a gray-haired old man by the time Cpl. Knight’s remains were finally brought home. The retrieval of William’s remains was, for him, a profound closure. A lifetime of questions finally answered. A year ago, my grandfather passed away, and it brings comfort to know that he had the chance to say a final goodbye to his brother before his own time came. But the bitter truth remains, more than 7,900 Americans remain unaccounted for from the Korean War, as reported by the Department of Defense. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, with a solemn mission, strives to provide the fullest possible accounting for those missing in action from past conflicts – a task that encompasses World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars, and other recent conflicts. As of the latest update on May 22, 2023, the number of missing American soldiers stands at more than 81,000.

The story of my great uncle, Army Cpl. William C. Knight, serves as a stark reminder that honor never expires. We bear a sacred duty to bring the fallen home, to return them to their final resting place. The act of retrieval and the act of remembrance are but the smallest gestures we can offer in the face of their ultimate sacrifice. These men, my great uncle included, are the ghosts of the Chosin – their spirits linger in the chilling winds of history, and their memory will never fade.

By Jacob Casavant.
Patriot’s Day (4/12/2024)

Patriot’s Day is Monday, April 15, 2024

Gardner City Hall and various area Town Halls are closed in celebration. The 128th Boston Marathon takes place as 100 years of the Start Line in Hopkinton is celebrated. Boston Marathon website, CLICK HERE
Gardner’s Tree (4/6/2024)

April Storm Topples Tree – Mayor Nicholson – “We’re Looking to See What We Can Do“

Gardner’s Christmas Tree was there when Mayor Michael Nicholson was born and when he attended what is now Holy Family Academy as a child. In his weekly update of April 5th, Nicholson stated, “And I do want to alleviate the biggest concern that I got in my office before we’re filming this video on Friday. We are looking to seeing what we can do about the Christmas tree over in Lafayette Square that blew over as a result of the windstorm. If anyone has seen any of these updates in the past four years, you all know Christmas is my favorite holiday, so I’m sure we’re going to have something in place there too. It is sad to see that giant Christmas tree fall as a result of the wind that we had during the storm and the ice, but we’ll come up with some type of plan to move forward with that. We don’t have a plan yet because it just happened, but when we do, I’ll be sure to let you all know. I was shocked to have over 50 calls yesterday and today about that Christmas tree, but it means a lot to people. But we’ll see what we can do with that.”

Gardner’s Tree 2021

Gardner’s Tree After Being Lit 2021

U.S. Flag Flying at High School Field 4-6-24

U.S. Flag Flying at Monument Park 4-6-24
Easter 2024 (3/29/2024)

Happy Easter 2024

May the Blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you as you celebrate Easter on March 31, 2024. Jesus died for our sins. And with the Resurrection of Jesus, God showed His love for us. Let us Honor Him by showing love for one another each and every day.

HAPPY EASTER!

Love poem to Jesus, CLICK HERE
Vietnam 2024 (3/29/2024)

Honoring Vietnam Veterans – National Vietnam Veterans Day

National Vietnam Veterans Day is March 29^th. On March 29, 2024, National Vietnam Veterans Day was celebrated in front of Gardner City Hall.

March 29, 2024 marks 7 years since the Vietnam Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 was signed into law by then President Trump. Hundreds of events were scheduled around the country.

The commemoration has a special website: VietnamWar50th.com, CLICK HERE. We also have AUDIO of the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on March 29, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK HERE.

National Wreath Laying Ceremony at Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Learn more with this booklet, CLICK HERE. —- Fact Sheet, CLICK HERE. —- Complete Public Information.
Presidents 2024 (2/18/2024)

Presidents Day 2024 in Greater Gardner MA

Presidents Day is Monday, February 19, 2024 in Greater Gardner MA. It is also the start of School Vacation Week. While the Post Office and most government offices are closed, most services such as trash pickup in area towns will continue as usual. Retail and restaurants will be open as usual.

We wrote on article last year on Presidential Speculations, CLICK HERE.
Heart-Shaped (1/15/2024)

Planning a Heart-Shaped Pizza for Valentine’s Day in Greater Gardner MA?

After we saw a Facebook post about Heart-Shaped pizzas, we used our Artificial Intelligence software to come up with the perfect Heart-shaped pizza. The AI took the extra step of cutting almost everything in the shape of a heart. A Facebook user had posted in part, “Which pizza shop do you think would accommodate putting the pepperoni in a heart shape for me on a pizza?”

Gardner’s West Broadway Pizza and Seafood responded, “We can, we have, and we will do it again.” They also posted a photo of a Pizza Bouquet.

Gardner’s Parker House of Pizza responded, “We would love to make you a heart shape pizza or make a heart shaped on the pizza, for your anniversary!!”

Ask your pizza shop if they’ll make you a heart-shaped pizza for Valentine’s Day.
MLK 2024 (1/13/2024)

Martin Luther King Day Celebrated Monday January 15, 2024 in Greater Gardner MA

The Reverend Martin Luther King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech on August 28, 1963 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. His dream was that all “would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for combating racial inequality through nonviolent resistance. Sadly, he was assassinated in 1968. More, CLICK HERE.

All of us are equal in the eyes of God.

Celebrate this day with love in your heart.
First Day (12/28/2023)

First Day Hikes Include Dunn State Park in Gardner MA

First Day Hikes will take place in State Parks across the State of Massachusetts on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2024. The 1.5 mile hike at Dunn State Park at 289 Pearl Street in Gardner will start with registration at the Pond House at 9am, hike at 10am, and hot chocolate served after the hike. Complete flyer of all locations, CLICK HERE.
Update 12-22-23 (12/22/2023)

STOCKING STUFFER OPPORTUNITY – Centennial Ball Tickets still available at City Hall Mayor’s Office and at the Velvet Goose. $30 each. Ball is Saturday, December 30, 2023

Gardner Mayor Nicholson with a Christmas Wish and an Update for the Chair City

Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY

Mayor’s Update December 22, 2023

The Mayor explained that a mechanical issue has prevented the flag from being raised completely in front of City Hall – pulleys inside the pole snapped.

The Mayor spoke about his White House visit, “There was about 20 or 30 different state and local officials and tribal leaders from around the United States who met as a part of this to talk about different things from grant funding to the infrastructure programs, what’s working, what’s not. And then it concluded with a private reception in which President Biden himself was in attendance.” 5 of the group was from Massachusetts.

Events: Winter Centennial Ball Saturday December 30, 2023 at Perry Auditorium at City Hall. 120 out of 300 tickets have been sold. They are $30 each and still available. Great Stocking Stuffer! Available at Mayor’s office, Velvet Goose Downtown. City’s Inauguration Thursday, January 4, 2024 in Perry Auditorium —- Interfaith Prayer service January 11, 2024 at Higher Ground Ministries for City and newly sworn in elected officials. And a Catholic Mass for City at Holy Spirit Chapel, 50 Metcalf Street Gardner, January 28, 2024 at 4pm.

We want to remind people that City Hall is going to open at noon Tuesday, December 26th.
Christmas Show (12/16/2023)

Gardner Magazine Releases – Christmas Show 2023

Featuring some songs you haven’t heard before, the 1/2 hour Gardner Magazine Christmas Show features 12 tunes, playable on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Magazine Christmas Show 2023

Enjoy Santa’s New Suit, It’s Christmastime Again, It’s the Holidays, Atmospheric Auld Lang Syne, Christmas Day, Santa Won’t You Listen to Me, Greatest Gift of All, Come on Mrs Claus (Let Me Be Your Man), Christmas is Coming, Jingle Bells, Fall in Love This Christmas, and We Wish You A Merry Christmas.

Lights – City (12/15/2023)

Enjoy Downtown Gardner this Season.

Christmas Lights in the Chair City of Gardner MA

From the lights in Monument Park to the lights lining the streets of Gardner, Christmas Lights are spreading the spirit of the season in the Chair City. Even the walking and biking path near Crystal Lake has red and green lights. Private homes are adorned with festive displays. It’s Lights in the City, 2023. Complete Gallery, CLICK HERE.

Lights in the Chair City
‘Twas a Week Before Christmas and all through the City Shone Christmas Lights everywhere and they are Pretty. The Chair City is showing its marvels for all to view, And welcoming shoppers like me and like you.

Don’t miss Christmas in the City – The Main Event on Thursday, December 21, 2023 from 9am to 8pm. Your favorite shops will be open late and have in-store specials. Enjoy free Horse and Carriage Rides and see the beautiful lights for yourself.

Lights – Toys (12/11/2023)

Successful Schotanus Family Light Show at Brookside Drive brings in Toys for Gardner CAC

Gardner Police Department posted, “The Grinch didn’t steal Christmas this year!!Another successful Holiday Light Show and Toy drive by the Schotanus Family. Our truck was filled with all the generous donations from our community to make it an even Merrier Christmas.”

The Gardner PD and Fire Departments invited the public to the 2023 Holiday Show and Toy Drive which was held December 9th at 250 Brookside Drive in Gardner. New, unwrapped gifts are donated to the Gardner CAC. Gardner PD and Fire personnel were on hand to help collect toys. It was all in the spirit of making a child’s holiday as bright as the light show.

To add to the fun, the Grinch was on hand and was taken into custody. Of course, this was after a photo op. Then it was off in the paddy wagon to where grinches go. And the toys were off to the Gardner CAC.

More Toys for CAC!

On December 11, 2023, Gardner CAC posted, “Our future is looking bright! Today, Gardner Elementary School student council made a special delivery of toys for our Christmas Toy Program! Thank you, student leaders for helping our community “

Gardner CAC website, CLICK HERE
Tree Gallery (12/5/2023)

View the Complete Gallery of Trees, CLICK HERE.

Beautiful Christmas Tree Gallery Released by Gardner Magazine

Enjoy the Christmas Trees or send along one of the trees to a friend or family member to cheer them up. You’ll enjoy the themes in the Gardner Magazine Gallery of Trees.

View the Complete Gallery of Trees, CLICK HERE.

May you and yours have a blessed Holiday Season filled with the goodness and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Merry Christmas!
Christmas Video (12/1/2023)

Christmas 2023 Video

Featuring Faith-Based Scenes of Christmas Trees and a Tribute to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas to you and Your Family. Video is HD.

Merry Christmas to you and your Family. A way of getting you in the spirit of the season.

produced by GardnerMagazine.com

Christmas Video

Christmas Video

Christmas Video
Tree 2023 (11/26/2023)

Downtown Gardner MA Tree Lighting and the Christmas Spirit

Downtown Gardner was filled with the Christmas Spirit on Sunday, November 26, 2023. Before it started to get dark, the Surround Sound Chorus performed in front of 25 Main Street.

Just after 4pm, people gathered at City Hall on Pleasant Street for the Holiday Stroll to Monument Park, led by the Gardner High School Band. The Gardner Middle School Chorus and Gardner High School Band performed.

Santa arrived in a horse-drawn sleigh and the lights were lit for the Christmas 2023 season. Horse-drawn carriage rides around Downtown were made available FREE to the public, courtesy of Gardner Square Two.
Thanks 2023 (11/22/2023)

Greater Gardner MA Celebrates Thanksgiving 2023

In the name of our Heavenly Father we Gather

And say the praises of our Lord together,

As we welcome the Goodness of the Holy Spirit

Into the Hearts of all who will receive IT.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. May the blessings of our Heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be with you now and forever. May there be joy in your home and love in your family.

Happy Thanksgiving, November 23, 2023 to each and every one of you.

Listen to this Thanksgiving Wish on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Thanksgiving 2023
Vets 11-11-23 (11/13/2023)

Veterans Day Ceremony held in Gardner MA

On Veterans Day, 2023 at 11am, a Veterans Day Ceremony was held at Perry Auditorium in Gardner MA. Listen to the ceremony on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Veterans Day Ceremony 11-11-23

Veterans were honored. Speakers were heard. Music was played.

Our AUDIO version has the various silent sections removed so it’s a great program for listening.
Hotline 11-11-23 (11/11/2023)

WGAW Hotline Radio has Hit Veterans Day Program

Gardner’s radio station featured an interview with the Mayor of Gardner, Michael Nicholson, various speakers at Veterans Day exercises, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, and Carolyn Kamuda, a new Councilor-at-Large who won a seat by a margin of 1 vote. To listen to the AUDIO from the home page of the WGAW site, CLICK HERE.

Hotline Radio is LIVE Saturdays from 12:10 to 2:00pm and can be heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and via streaming from anywhere in the world.

Veterans 2023 (11/8/2023)

Veterans Day Modern American Soldier Card

A Salute to Veterans in Greater Gardner MA

Veterans Of Service – By Werner Poegel
Of service to our nation they Head directly to harm’s way. Protecting Freedoms cherished, Many brethren have perished
Those who wear the uniform Go in to an unknown storm. Danger lurks at every corner. All serve with great honor.
While Americans on every day Enjoy freedom in every way. Men and women in every force Keep us safe and stay the course.
Let us say thanks very loudly Waving our flag so proudly. Let us show much appreciation For those who serve our nation.
It is a day when we reflect On men and women so select. To our Veterans we gladly say Have a Happy Veterans Day!

Veterans Day Exercises will be held on Saturday, November 11th at 11am in Perry Auditorium. Gardner City Hall will be closed on Friday, November 10th in observance of Veterans Day. Listen to the poem on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Veterans of Service – 11-11-23

Columbus 2023 (10/7/2023)

Happy Columbus Day in Greater Gardner MA

Columbus Day is Monday, October 9, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA.

Gardner City Hall and area town halls are closed.

State offices are closed.

Schools are closed.

The Post office is celebrating the Federal Holiday and is not delivering mail. Post offices are closed.

Most stores and restaurants are open.

Some communities in Massachusetts celebrate Columbus Day as Indigenous Peoples Day.
The 4th – 2023 (7/1/2023)

The 4^th of July Celebrates the Declaration of Independence in Greater Gardner MA

The 4^th of July Celebrates the Declaration of Independence in Greater Gardner MA dating from July 4, 1776. Gardner was incorporated as a town 9 years later.

For the entire Declaration of Independence text, CLICK HERE. It has a list of signatories and also a link to a printable pdf

To listen to a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by the group of celebrities listed in the graphic, just press PLAY on any device.

A reading of the Declaration of Independence

Happy July 4th!

Juneteenth 2023 (6/18/2023)

Juneteenth to be celebrated Monday, June 19, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA

City Hall and Town Halls will be closed and U.S. mail will not be delivered. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans. It became a Federal Holiday when the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act became law in 2021. More on Juneteenth, CLICK HERE. – Original Poem below.

The Sentient Soul of American Freedom
The sentient soul is only free amidst absolute equality. White, black, brown, or blue, every color of the rainbow too. Differences embraced as perfect creations of a loving God. Discrimination disgraced as perpetrating the ultimate fraud
Each of us with an inner glow, a sentient soul to show. Beauty transcending physical form whatever it may be. True love of others practicing no visible discernment Instead cherishing the joy of what always lies within.
View those around you with a much more careful eye. Appreciating the unlimited variety of human existence. Upholding our freedoms with determined persistence. Understanding that rights for the one is rights for us all.
No one being is less and all of us together are more. Loving what is different as much as what is the same. Brings energy to the equality of the sentient soul. Achieving freedom for all as the American goal.

by Werner Poegel 2022

In Reverence (5/29/2023)

To all who serve their fellow community members in any capacity so that we may be safe and free, we say thank you today and every day.

In Reverence: Memorial Day Ceremonies in Greater Gardner MA

A parade in Gardner culminated with ceremonies at Monument Park. In Winchendon, a weekend of events were scheduled with ceremonies at GAR Park. In Baldwinville, ceremonies were held after a parade to Baldwinville Center. View video of Gardner Ceremony – or listen here on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Memorial Day Ceremony May 29, 2023

When our military men and women are sent in to harm’s way, they sometimes don’t make it home. Their ultimate sacrifices allow us to enjoy the freedoms of the United States of America. On Memorial Day, we honor them, we thank them, and we mourn them.

The day after Memorial Day is just another day in the lives of many of us. However, for some families, the thoughts of Memorial Day linger on for some time because a son or daughter, a father or mother, a brother or sister, a beloved friend, are forever lost in this earthly realm. Please take a moment and say a prayer for the families of those who have lost someone. They are making a sacrifice everyday too.

In Reverence. Memorial Day 2023.
Memorial Day 2023 (5/22/2023)

Greater Gardner MA to celebrate Memorial Day Mon. May 29, 2023

City of Gardner: The Memorial Day Parade begins at 22 Elm Street at 9:40am and heads to Monument Park in Gardner for 10am services. In the parade this year will be the Gardner PD, Veteran’s Organization Colors, Veterans by foot-car-van, the GHS Band, politicians, Order of the Elks, Scout Troops, Baseball players, private citizens, Gardner FD, and Patriot Riders and Elks Motorcycles.

Anne Marie Blake will deliver a welcome, Paul Leblanc will give the invocation, Mayor Michael Nicholson will deliver a greeting, City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas will speak, the GHS Band will perform America the Beautiful, GHS will perform the Gettysburg Address, Michael Valila will give the main address, GHS Band will play God Bless America, you’ll also hear from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and Veterans Agent Lynette Gabrila. The audience will stand for a Military Medley saluting the Marines, Army, Coast Guard, Air Force, Navy, and Space Force. Reverend David Cody will deliver the benediction. In case of rain, the ceremonies will be held in Perry Auditorium at City Hall.

Winchendon: A weekend of events are scheduled. CLICK FOR PDF. Ceremonies will be held on Memorial Day at the Grand Army Republic (GAR) Park at about 10:45am.

Templeton: Parade goes from Baldwinville Road to Baldwinville Center with a ceremony at 10am

Have we missed your community? Email details to News@GardnerMagazine.com and we’ll add to this article. Thank you.
Mother’s Day 2023 (5/7/2023)

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mother’s in Greater Gardner MA.

Mother’s Day is Sunday May 14, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA

What Is Mother’s Day?
Honors the Mother of the family or individual child
Honors Motherhood
Honors Maternal Bonds
Honors Influence of mothers in society

Mother’s Day is the 2^nd Sunday of May every year in the United States. It was first celebrated as Mother’s Day at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia in 1907 with a service led by Anna Jarvis. Anna Jarvis is quoted as saying a mother is “the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.” In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating Mother’s Day as a national holiday honoring mothers on the second Sunday in May. A version of Mother’s day is celebrated in many countries throughout the world with almost 100 celebrating on the 2^nd Sunday of May. The second largest group of countries celebrates the holiday in March.
Pretzel Day (4/23/2023)

National Pretzel Day is April 26, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA

Pretzels are available almost everywhere food is sold in the Greater Gardner area. What do you know about the history of the pretzel?

Pretzels.com says, “On April 26th, millions of pretzel lovers across America come together to celebrate their favorite twisted treat. This special holiday is the perfect opportunity for you to honor your passion for pretzels, and with today’s variety of forms and flavors, there are so many ways to celebrate!“

According to the site, pretzels came about in the 7^th century as a creation by a Christian monk in Italy who gave them as rewards for children who had learned their prayers. Called “pretolia”, or “little rewards”

In the 18^th Century, pretzels were made in bakeries started by German immigrants and to this day, 80% of all pretzels in America are made in the state of Pennsylvania which declared “National Pretzel Day” in 1983. And what do put on your pretzel? Well, there is actually a National Mustard Museum in Wisconsin. CLICK HERE.
Patriot’s Day 2023 (4/12/2023)

Patriot’s Day in the Greater Gardner MA area is observed Monday April 17, 2023

For more information on Patriot’s Day, CLICK HERE

Monday, April 17, 2023 is also the 127th Boston Marathon. Official website, CLICK HERE. The race will be covered LIVE on WCVB-TV Channel 5.1 Boston More info, CLICK HERE.

Gardner City Hall and various Town offices will be closed on Monday.

What Is Mother’s Day?
Honors the Mother of the family or individual child
Honors Motherhood
Honors Maternal Bonds
Honors Influence of mothers in society

Easter Poem (4/8/2023)

Happy Easter to each and every one of you in the Greater Gardner MA area and beyond as we celebrate the JOY of history’s Greatest Gift!

Dear Lord to Whom We Give our Thanks
In the hope many more will join the ranks
Of those who know the love and the hope
and the Certitude of the Big Gift’s scope.

It is a club to whom the price of admission
Is free to anyone of the human condition.
Saving those who otherwise might be lost
Because Lord Jesus absorbed the cost.

Oh, what a joy it must have been
As the Lord washed away the sin
Using the Love He had for us all,
To save every single Willing Soul.

He gave His life and rose in 3 Days
Providing a Path to Eternal Grace.
No more does Life Have to End.
Just Believe and the Future is Planned.

A Gift so freely given to all who accept Him
Makes the end of life a new place to begin.
He Turned What was a Deadly Intersection
Into Forever Life Through His Resurrection.

by Werner Poegel 2023

Love Poem to Jesus (4/6/2023)

A Love Poem to Jesus on Occasion of His Resurrection

Dear Lord to Whom We Give our Thanks
In the hope many more will join the ranks
Of those who know the love and the hope
and the Certitude of the Big Gift’s scope.

It is a club to whom the price of admission
Is free to anyone of the human condition.
Saving those who otherwise might be lost
Because Lord Jesus absorbed the cost.

Oh, what a joy it must have been
As the Lord washed away the sin
Using the Love He had for us all,
To save every single Willing Soul.

He gave His life and rose in 3 Days
Providing a Path to Eternal Grace.
No more does Life Have to End.
Just Believe and the Future is Planned.

A Gift so freely given to all who accept Him
Makes the end of life a new place to begin.
He Turned What was a Deadly Intersection
Into Forever Life Through His Resurrection.

By Werner Poegel, April 5, 2023

Happy Easter (4/5/2023)

Easter Sunday is April 9, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA

Gardner Magazine wishes you a Happy Easter.

“For Christians, Easter represents Jesus Christ’s victory over death. His resurrection is proof He is the Son of God, and it is the reason we can find hope in an eternity spent with Him. During Easter, we celebrate what we believe to be the biggest moment in history.”

For more about Easter, visit this page from Christianity Today, CLICK HERE.

For a Greater Gardner Church near you, please visit our Churches page, CLICK HERE.

Here is a poem I wrote for Easter, CLICK HERE.
Vietnam Vets (3/27/2023)

National Vietnam War Veterans Day celebrated at Gardner City Hall March 29, 2023 at 10am

The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 was signed into law by 45th U.S. President Donald J. Trump, designating every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. More on this day, CLICK HERE

50 years ago on March 29, 1973, the last combat troops left Vietnam. Thank you all for your service.
St. Patrick’s 2023 (3/16/2023)

Happy St. Patrick’s Day 2023 in Greater Gardner MA and everywhere!

On Saint Patrick’s Day, it is customary to wear shamrocks, green clothing or green accessories. While not a legal holiday, it is a celebration of Irish and Irish-American culture. It has been observed in what is now the United States for over 400 years.

For more on St. Patrick’s Day, CLICK HERE.
Presidents Day (2/18/2023)

Presidents Day is Monday February 20, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA…

School Vacation Week is February 20-24

Gardner City Hall and various Town Offices are closed on Monday, February 20th.

Last year, we released Poem of the Presidents, CLICK HERE.

Valentine’s Day (2/14/2023)

Chair City of Heart – By Werner Poegel – February 10, 2023

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Chair City of Heart – Valentine’s Day Poem

Welcome to the Chair City of Heart,
Community Spirit right from the start.
Formed from Land Parcels Coming Together
Home to proud people is Gardner forever.

The love of its citizens shared with the region
Which comes to Gardner for its cohesion.
A spirit of teamwork had lead to success.
Of which many so joyfully profess.

So much is its construct from ideas construed,
And common sense values is the City imbued.
Building upon excellence will carry it far.
The City is lit with an encouraging star.

A place where solutions to problems are found.
A community of doers whose watches are wound
With the time and the patience to carry it far,
Because Diligence rewards those who care.

Come people, come business, come industry too.
The City of Gardner is welcoming you.
This is the great Chair City of Heart
Each person important and playing a part.

Centennial Event 1-14-23 (1/15/2023)

Centennial Merchandise Display

Event at Perry Auditorium Kicks Off Gardner MA Centennial Celebration on January 14, 2023

Various City of Gardner Centennial merchandise will be on sale throughout the year at various events. An announcement of some of the upcoming events will be forthcoming soon, according to Committee Chair Brad Heglin.

Visit our Centennial page for updates.

Marion Knoll – Brad Heglin – Jonathan Zlotnik

Just a few of the notable individuals in attendance at first event of 2023!

Centennial Pin
MLK 1-16-23 (1/15/2023)

Gardner Magazine Honors Martin Luther King Jr.: — Listen to “I Have a Dream” speech

The famous speech was delivered on August 28, 1963, almost 60 years ago. Listen on any device. Click Play. Learn more about MLK, click here.

Martin Luther King Day is a Federal Holiday celebrated on Monday January 16, 2023.
2023 Calendar (12/31/2022)

Basic Greater Gardner MA Printable Calendar

Here is the basic 2023 Calendar with Holidays, CLICK HERE.

The Radio Advertising Bureau puts out a 12 month Promotional Calendar. It gives you every promotional week and day throughout the year. CLICK HERE.
Rink Celebration (12/29/2022)

UPDATE 12/29/22: from the Centennial Committee: “The Centennial Celebration Kick-off Event scheduled for 12/31/22 is going to be postponed until Saturday, January 14, 2023. Other event details remain the same…..Due to the high temperatures, the ice rink cannot be completed as the water cannot freeze.”

Rink Celebration

New Gardner MA Skating Rink Kicks off Centennial Celebration

On New Year’s Eve, Saturday December 31, 2022 from 1pm to 3pm, Gardner will hold a Centennial Celebration Kick-off Event at Jackson Playground on 155 Cross Street, Gardner in conjunction with the new Outdoor Ice Skating Rink.

Those wishing to skate must bring their own skates. In event of bad weather, gathering will occur at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall on the same day and time.

There will be various vendors, cookies, hot cocoa, coloring station for kids, and ice skating. Remarks by Mayor and Local Officials.

The Chair City of Gardner MA celebrates its 100th Birthday as a City on January 1, 2023 on which date it will enter its 101st year. Various activities and events for 2023 are still being planned by the Centennial Committee.

Skating Rink at Jackson Park
Caroling 2022 (12/24/2022)

Caroling with the Mayor 2022

Click the middle Play button to play the video right out of the page, or play the AUDIO only version provided here as well. We also have a page with photos from the video, CLICK HERE.

Caroling with the Mayor Video 2022 Released just in Time for Gardner MA Christmas

The 3rd Annual Installment of “Caroling with the Mayor” with host Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson features lots of joyful singing including at the end, the song “Believe” from the Polar Express sung by the Mayor, who happens to be able to sing. It’s a great program. If you’d prefer to listen to just the AUDIO, play on any device.

Caroling with the Mayor 2022
Merry Christmas to You (12/24/2022)

Merry Christmas to You and Your Family. May the Blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ be with You now and always.
Carriage Rides (12/21/2022)

REMINDER: Horse Drawn Carriage Rides are ON – Downtown Gardner MA on Thursday, December 22, 2022 from 5 to 7pm – Start at Gardner City Hall and see the lights. TOTALLY FREE!!!

“Meet at City Hall and ride through Downtown to see the beautiful lights and store windows and Lafayette Square and Monument Park! FREE!”
Christmas Concert (12/20/2022)

Students of Holy Family Academy perform December 19, 2022 at Annunciation Parish in Gardner MA

Christmas Concert at Annunciation Parish in Gardner MA Features Proud Alum

Yes, that’s Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson (inset) playing the trumpet during the Holy Family Academy performance of Silent Night on December 19, 2022. Mayor Nicholson posted, “Congratulations to all of the students who performed in last evening’s Christmas Concert.” The Mayor returned to the place he attended in his younger days saying, “it was great to see all the talented students and even join the band with my trumpet for the playing of Silent Night!”

Holy Family Academy website. Annunciation Parish website.

Scenes of the Event (12/15/2022)

Main Event Collage 12 15 22 — **Scenes from the Main Event**

There’s FREE PARKING in Downtown Gardner MA for the entire month of December.

Public Enjoys Main Event in Downtown Gardner MA on December 15, 2022

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson led Christmas Caroling.

Gardner City Departments including Fire, PD, and DPW collaborated for extra lighting, managing traffic, providing safety cones, and valuable assistance.

Holy Family Academy and Principal Colette Goguen served hot cocoa and cookies.

John’s Sport Shop and the Velvet Goose hosted Santa Claus and Sasha the Snow Queen.

Parker House of Pizza treated carolers to party pizza after the event and posted, “How wonderful it was to see such joy and happiness in our community tonight. The Carolers were amazing. Thank you for making our night special. Happy holidays to all.”

It was announced that Carriage Rides will be happening Thursday, December 22nd from 5 to 7pm.

Great 100th (12/15/2022)

Great December – Downtown Countdown

The Great Downtown Countdown is Happening Now in Gardner MA

It is a “Great December” as Gardner celebrates its 100^th Christmas as a City. Whether you Shop Downtown, Drive Around and enjoy the lights, Watch a Movie, or patronize any of the businesses in the Chair City, you’ll know the feeling that it’s a special time of year. From its beginnings in 1764 to a town in 1785 and a City in 1923, Gardner has come a long way. It is because of you, the people who have businesses, work in, or live in the Great Chair City of Gardner MA that its future 2^nd century as a City will not only be possible, but filled with even brighter days ahead. Merry Christmas to all!

Remember, there’s FREE PARKING in Downtown Gardner the entire month of December, 2022
Great December (12/14/2022)

Great December

Main Event Thursday December 15th 5-7pm part of a “Great December” 2022 in Gardner MA

There’s literally Horse Drawn Carriage Rides (Sleighing), Singing with the Mayor, and Shopping at Downtown Stores Thursday December 15th. Update 12/15/22: Due to weather forecast, Carriage Rides are not possible this evening, but rest of event is still happening. But it doesn’t stop there. There’s a dozen more businesses in Downtown Gardner this year than last and parking is FREE through December. We spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Listen here on any device. CLICK Play.

Mayor Nicholson on the Main Event, Christmas, and Downtown Gardner.

For more on the Main Event, visit the Gardner Square Two website, CLICK HERE.

Main Event (12/10/2022)

Santa and Mayor on horse drawn carriage — **Santa with horse-drawn carriage**

Main Event to Take Place in Gardner MA on Thursday December 15, 2022 from 5pm to 7pm

FREE Horse and Buggy Carriage rides will be offered to those wishing to view the Christmas Lights in the Chair City in a unique way. The Route will start at City Hall and go down Main Street, circle LaFayette Park, head back up, and go back to City Hall via Pleasant Street.

Event was originally scheduled on a different date, now it’s Thursday December 15, 2022 from 5pm to 7pm.

Schedule of Events – Thursday, December 15, 2022 from 5pm to 7pm

Santa at Johns Sport Shop — **Santa at John’s Sport Shop**

Snow Princess at Velvet Goose — **Snow Princess**

5-7pm: Carriage rides! Starting in front of City Hall and sleighing through Downtown. Check out the beautiful shop windows and lighting displays on Main Street, Lafayette Square and Monument Park.

5-7pm: Naughty or Nice?! Visit with Santa at John’s Sport Shop.

5-7pm: You Light up our Life! Pose with Sasha the Snow Princess on Main Street. Sasha is a LED Stiltwalker and is excited to return to Downtown Gardner. Sponsored by John’s Sport Shop and The Velvet Goose.

5-7pm Hot Cocoa, Coffee and Treats! Holy Family Academy will be selling goodies for their fundraising programs. Visit them on Main Street.

6-7pm FaLaLa 🎶 Caroling with the Mayor. Join Mayor Nicholson as he spreads holiday cheer on Main Street. All Welcome!

Participating Businesses: Check with your favorite Downtown Businesses to see if they are open Thursday December 15th from 5-7pm. Some we know are participating include VIBE Studio, John’s Sport Shop, The Velvet Goose, Studio 4 Potters, The Witches’ Wardrobe, Terrapin Traders, and Happy Trails Natural Foods.

City of Gardner Main Event 12 15 22 1380

Christmas Cards (12/7/2022)

National Christmas Card Day

National Christmas Card Day is Friday, December 9, 2022 in Greater Gardner MA

Christmas is a joyful Holiday, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. We have a page of Christmas cards which you can download and email to family and friends to spread around the Holiday Sentiment.

May the blessings of the season be yours,
Even more joy than shopping the stores,
The price of admission is always free
Where the spirit of the Lord brings glee.

Werner Poegel, 2022

A blessed Holiday season to you and yours…
Christmas Video (12/5/2022)

Gardner Magazine releases Downtown Gardner MA Christmas Lights Video

Enjoy the Christmas Lights of Monument Park and the rest of Downtown Gardner set to the music of a “Downtown Christmas”.

Throughout the month of December, there is FREE PARKING in Downtown Gardner MA.
Tree Lighting 12-4-22 (12/4/2022)

Gardner MA Tree Lighting 12-4-22

Gardner MA Holds Tree Lighting Ceremony

Filled with the spirit of Christmas in sight and in song, the City of Gardner Massachusetts drew hundreds of people on Sunday December 4, 2022 for the Tree Lighting held at Monument Park. Gardner Mayor Nicholson arrived on the horse-drawn carriage with Santa Claus who delighted the crowd with his Red Suit and iconic white beard. Gardner Square Two President Patti Bergstrom thanked all of those who had contributed to the Annual Memorial Light campaign, personally reflecting on how much remembering those she has lost means to her. The band played, the choir sang, and there was even a solo of “All I Want for Christmas Is You”. Meanwhile, homes like the one on Vernon Street participated by lighting up their homes for the season in truly beautiful displays.

This is just the beginning of the Holiday season in Gardner. There’s FREE parking in Downtown Gardner for the entire month of December, and Downtown Shopping opportunities are abundant. Gardner MA Churches will be having various services throughout the month, including Christmas Eve. For our Churches page, CLICK HERE. Non-profit organizations have functions and many could use your Christmas donations. For our Greater Gardner Public Service Organizations page, CLICK HERE.

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Wreaths Winchendon MA (12/3/2022)

Wreaths Across America Planning for Laying of Wreaths in Winchendon MA

Veterans will be honored at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon on December 16, 2022 at 9am. According to Wreaths Across America “to Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud.” The cemetery is home to the graves of thousands of veterans.

For more information, please visit this page. Click Here.
Tree Lighting – 12-4-22 (12/2/2022)

Christmas Tree Lighting

Gardner MA Tree Lighting Ceremony Taking Place Sunday December 4, 2022 at 5pm at Monument Park

Highlights include performances by the Gardner Middle School Chorus, the Gardner High School Band, refreshments provided by Holy Academy, glow light sticks provided by Gardner Square Two, a visit from Santa Claus, and the availability of horse-drawn carriage rides.

Gardner Mayor Nicholson also offered, “Thank you to GFA Federal Credit Union for sponsoring the team of Belgian Draft Horses and carriage from Triple T Family Farm that will bring Santa into the event and then offer rides around the downtown after the ceremony!”

Christmas Lights on around the Chair City this year include Monument Park, Downtown Gardner, and South Gardner.
Festival of Trees (11/30/2022)

Gardner Museum Festival of Trees

Incredible Festival of Trees underway at Gardner Museum in Gardner MA

The 17th Annual Festival of Trees concludes Saturday December 3, 2022. Hours: Wednesday and Thursday 1-4pm, Friday 1pm-7pm, and Saturday 10am to 4pm. Drawing for trees is after closing on Saturday. Complete Photo Gallery, CLICK HERE.

Admission is only $3. But you get in FREE if you buy $5 worth of raffle tickets (sheet of 26) As the Gardner Museum says, “Don’t Miss the Magic.” 100+ trees and other items to view and possibly win! Children are FREE if accompanied by an adult and members are FREE.

The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner MA. For more information about the Gardner Museum, visit their website, CLICK HERE.
Light Show – Toy Drive (11/29/2022)

Light Show and Toy Drive

Holiday Light Show and Toy Drive in Gardner MA this Saturday December 3, 2022

The Gardner Police and Fire Departments along with the Schotanus Family have invited the Public to a Holiday Show and Toy Drive at 250 Brookside Drive, Gardner this Saturday December 3, 2022 from 5pm to 8pm. Viewers are asked to bring a new unwrapped gift to donate to the Gardner CAC. Gardner PD and Fire personnel will be there to help collect toys.

For more information, visit the Gardner PD Facebook page. CLICK HERE.
Templeton Tree Lighting (11/29/2022)

Templeton MA Tree Lighting

Templeton MA Tree Lighting on Sunday December 4, 2022

The Town of Templeton is holding several events called “Tree Lighting of the Villages,” starting at 3:30pm on Sunday, December 4th with a performance in the Center of Templeton by the New Players Theatre Guild Singers. Parade featuring Santa, Elsa, and the Community starts at 4:10pm. Tree Lighting is at 4:30pm. Then at 5pm at the Scout Hall in East Templeton is a Sing Along. In Otter River at 5:30pm will be the Color Guard of the Massachusetts Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. At 6pm, the Narragansett High School Band performs on the Baldwinville Common. And at 6:30pm, The Templeton Senior Center will feature a Movie and Snacks.

For more information, visit the Templeton MA Recreation Facebook page.
Winchendon Tree Lighting (11/29/2022)

Winchendon MA Tree Lighting

Winchendon MA Tree Lighting and More Saturday December 3, 2022

The Annual Tree Lighting event in Winchendon MA is Saturday, December 3, 2022 from 5pm to 7pm at the Gazebo located at 52 Murdock Ave. Enjoy Christmas Carols along with FREE hot cocoa. Baked goods are also for sale and Santa & Mrs. Clause are making a special appearance. Actual Lighting occurs at 5:30pm.

Other Winchendon Events on December 3, 2022: The Holiday Craft Fair at the Old Murdock Senior Center is 9am to 2pm, the Festival of Trees takes place at the Beal’s Memorial Library, and the Old Centre Church has a table setting event.
Christmas – City (11/28/2022)

Orpheum Park – Gardner MA

Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Shares Festive Photos of November 28, 2022

The Mayor posted, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.” Even though Gardner Square Two Inc. and the City are still working on a new date for the Memorial Lights Ceremony, the lights are on! New this year are the wreaths in South Gardner, the new photo background prop in Orpheum Park, and the evergreen at the point of Monument Park! “Its Christmas Time in the City”

South Gardner MA

Lights at Monument Park Gardner MA

It’s Christmas Time – Sarantos Play on any device.

Christmas Tree – Parker Street Gardner MA

The lights are on as Gardner MA awaits the rescheduling of the Lights Ceremony which was postponed Sunday November 27th due to rain.

Lights at Gardner City Hall

Mayor’s Update 11-25-22 (11/25/2022)

Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Thank you 11 25 22 — **The Exact Moment in Time of a Big “Thank You” from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 11-25-22**

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson: “Gardner is a very special place and we’re very blessed to be here.”

Watch the Mayor’s Updates on our Mayor’s Update page, all AUDIO and prior Update articles on our AUDIO page, or listen here on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 11-25-22

Treelighting-1200 — **Tree Lighting 2021: This year’s Tree Lighting will be held at Monument Park**

Greenwood Pool 1923 — **Greenwood Pool and Bathhouse 100 years ago.**

Listen to this week’s Mayor’s Update on any device. CLICK Play.

Mayor’s Update November 25, 2022

Complete Article on City Council Meetings of November 21, 2022, CLICK HERE.

With a Grateful Spirit, Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Both Thanks and Updates the Chair City

A Message of Gratitude

No less than a dozen times in this week’s update, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson used the words Thank You. He thanked citizens for tuning in to the update, Lindsay Butler and Trevor Beauregard of Community Development, City Councillors for “your cooperation and partnership.”, department heads for their continued work, to GFA for sponsoring the horse-drawn carriage for the upcoming tree-lighting ceremony, Gardner Square Two for sponsoring additional Christmas decorations, to everyone who participated in the Memorial Lights campaign, to the members of the public for “all you do for the community….and staying involved,” to everyone who’s involved, and then a general “Thank You.” at the end.

Reminders to the Chair City

Salvation Army Kettle campaign underway. Most of funds collected go to Gardner CAC. – Volunteers still needed.

Small Business Saturday is Saturday 11-26-22. However, it’s Small Business Month in Gardner with FREE Downtown parking entire month of December. (2 hr. parking limit still applies.)

Congratulations to various Gardner Sports Teams. The Mayor mentioned the soccer teams, the Cross Country team, and that the Gardner Cheerleaders will be headed for the National Competition in Dallas in January. He said he was “very proud of all of our student athletes…”

Sunday’s Christmas Parade – From City Hall setup at 4pm eventually to Monument Park for the tree lighting after 4:30pm.

Festival of Trees – at Gardner Museum until December 3rd.

City Council Approvals

Community Development Block Grant 2 year plan approved. Funding to go to demolition of Greenwood Pool Building and construction of new Pavilion, demolition of Rome building at corner of Main and Willow Street, covering athletic fees for low to moderate income students, and to the Gardner Emergency Housing Mission.

Tax Rate set at $16.16, down from $18.59. Next bills should go down. Public Hearing coming up 12-5-22 as to whether residential, business, and industrial properties will continue to be taxed at same rate. Mayor is in favor of a single tax rate to continue to encourage business.

Supplemental Budget approved. Additional inspector to be added in Health Department, will help in keeping up with food inspections. Domestic Violence Advocate position reinstated at Gardner Police Department after a 15 year absence. “Positions to be posted shortly.”

Gardner City Council (11/23/2022)

Gardner MA City Council

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Gardner MA City Council has 11 Working Members

Top: Dana Heath, Elizabeth Kazinskas, Craig Cormier, George Tyros, and Karen Hardern. Bottom: James Boone, Alek Dernalowicz, Judy Mack, Ron Cormier, James Walsh, and Craig Cormier. Click Image for larger view.

The Gardner City Council is the legislative body of the Chair City of Gardner, Massachusetts. They are tasked with representing the people of the City. 2022 has been a busy year for the Council. Happy Thanksgiving to all of its members. To listen to any Gardner City Council meeting on any device, CLICK HERE.
Tree Lighting (11/23/2022)

UPDATE: 11/26/22: Sunday 11/27 Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting is postponed – A new date will be announced early to mid week. From Mayor Michael Nicholson: “The event is postponed. We will have a new date announce either on Monday or Tuesday. We need to first check with everyone who is going to be performing and participating to check their availability, and once we know that a new date will be announced. However, no matter what tomorrow’s event will not be occurring tomorrow it is postponed. Thank you!”

The Light are on in Gardner MA

Lights being put up at Monument Park in 2022

Gardner MA Lights a Taste of What’s to Come

The spirit of the upcoming Christmas season is already alive in the Chair City as these lights from November 22nd show. Thursday is Thanksgiving, Friday is Black Friday, Saturday is Small Business Saturday, and Sunday November 27, 2022 is the Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Schedule of Events Tree Lighting on Sunday November 27th

From the City of Gardner “Meet the Mayor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, GHS Band, and GHS Cheerleaders at City Hall on Pleasant Street. Join the Parade at 4:30 PM and march through Downtown to Monument Park for the Tree Lighting Ceremony! At Monument Park on Central Street –

Enjoy performances by Gardner High School Band, Gardner High School Cheerleaders, and Gardner Middle School Chorus. – Horse drawn carriage rides – Holy Family Academy will be selling hot coffee and cocoa to raise funds. Food Trucks will be set up. Presentations will be made to Gardner CAC and Gardner Music Boosters. Hear a few words from Mayor Nicholson, Patti Bergstrom for Gardner Square Two, Inc., and Santa!

After the event, there is a FREE Christmas Party at Chair City Church. The entrance to use is at 112 Central Street, Gardner. In the large auditorium there will be seating and tables with Christmas cookies, baked Christmas goods, hot apple cider, and hot chocolate. A special attraction will be Santa and his Elves. All is FREE to the public. We spoke with Pastor Dave Tralongo. Listen here on any device. Click Play.

Dave Tralongo Chair City Church
Thanksgiving Week (11/19/2022)

Thanksgiving Thursday 11-25-22

Thanksgiving Week in Greater Gardner MA

To conduct town business this week, check hours with your Town Hall. The City of Gardner will be open normal hours Monday and Tuesday, closed at noon on Wednesday, and closed Thursday and Friday. Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 24th.

Black Friday

Black Friday

Traditionally, Black Friday is a huge Shopping Day with consumers purchasing a wide variety of goods in-person and online.

With the number of businesses increasing in Gardner during the past year, there are more places to shop local on Black Friday.

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 26, 2022. Area residents are encouraged to SHOP LOCAL. A higher percentage of dollars spent locally stays in the community.

Towards Downtown Gardner MA

Christmas Tree Lighting

For more information on the Christmas Tree Lighting from Gardner Square Two, CLICK HERE

Gardner MA Tree Lighting – Sunday

The 2022 Christmas Tree Lighting Event kicks off Gardner’s 100th Christmas as a City. It will consist of a parade from Gardner City Hall down Main Street and up Central Street to the Monument Park bandstand. The parade will consist of the Gardner Wildcat Marching Band, The Gardner Middle School Bobcat Chorus, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and Santa will be brought in on a team of Clydesdale horses. Eventually the tree will be lit and this year glow sticks will be handed out to the public as part of the celebration.
Veterans Honored (11/11/2022)

Veterans Honored Gardner MA 11-11-22

Various Speakers took to the podium

Ceremony in Gardner MA Honors All Area Veterans

On Veterans Day, November 11, 2022, Veterans were honored in a ceremony in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. The exercises included a number of speakers including local Government leaders and Veterans. 99 year old World War II veteran Ernie Richard was present. Mayor Nicholson sang “God Bless America”.

In the video there are extended periods of silence while preparations are made and some of the sound is hard to hear. We have corrected that in the AUDIO version. We think you’ll find it is an enjoyable, inspiring, and reverent program. Listen on any device. CLICK Play.

Veterans Day Ceremony 2022 Gardner MA

Thank you to all of our Veterans!

The event was well attended

Patriotic Music was part of the program

Mayor’s Update 11-11-22 (11/11/2022)

Nicholson Update 11 11 22 — **Mayor’s Update November 11, 2022**

Watch the Mayor’s Update on our Mayor’s Update page or listen here on any device. CLICK Play.

Mayor’s Update 11-11-22

Holiday Lights Being Put Up at Monument Park 11 4 22 2 — **Holiday** **Lights Being Installed at Monument Park on 11-4-22**

Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson thanks voters – “A government of the people and for the people”

The Mayor thanked Election workers and voters who showed up in substantial numbers to cast ballots in the November 8th election.

Nicholson has reached out to the new and returning state constitutional officers to offer congratulations and to continue partnerships and start new ones. “We’ll continue to do everything we can to advocate for the people of our City.”

Mayor Nicholson congratulated Boucher Funeral Home on its 75th anniversary, stating that they were the first recipient of the facade improvement program and “We do still have money left over in our facade program and in our sign replacement and installation program” City contact is Jessica DeRoy, City Economic Development Coordinator. Website Link

To celebrate Gardner’s 100th Christmas as a City, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting will take place Sunday November 27, 2022 and feature Santa Claus on a horse-drawn sleigh with a team of horses for the Holiday stroll ending at Monument Park this year.

Gardner Mayor Nicholson spoke of veterans, “
We’ll never really be able to repay the debt that our veterans have paid for this country…. we owe them a a very deep and special thank you…”

Veterans 2022 (11/10/2022)

Happy Veterans Day 2022 11 11 22 — **Happy Veterans Day 11-11-22**

We interviewed Lynette Grabila, Veterans Agent and Director of Veterans Services for the City of Gardner. Listen on any device, Click Play.

Interview with Lynette Grabila – Veterans Agent

Greater Gardner MA Original Veterans Day Poem

Freedom has a shelf life others wish to shorten,
Sometimes its fragility is wantonly forgotten.
Trappings of daily life so actively pursued,
While warriors keep nation’s liberty renewed.

Remembering one hundred and four years ago
Hostilities did cease with a World War One foe.
Eleven hours, eleventh day, eleventh month.
Armistice replaced the ugly war’s labyrinth.

A day observed each year honors our veterans
Who proudly served to protect all Americans.
From the perilous threats of a dangerous world,
While carrying the Star Spangled Banner unfurled.

Support all our men and women in uniform,
Who stand in guard of world peace from a perfect storm.
Many wounds of war often run more than skin deep.
Affecting the families, friends and even their sleep.

Thank you for your service because it is so true,
We owe a big debt which we can’t repay to you.
For the lives we have because of freedoms you save.
Thank you our veterans who are certainly brave.

By Werner Poegel November 5, 2022

Halloween (10/22/2022)

Trick or Treat Hours Greater Gardner MA

Our page has Trick or Treat Hours for Greater Gardner MA. Some communities have not posted hours yet. If you know the hours please email News@GardnerMagazine.com so we can update. Trick or Treat Hours page.
Gardner 100th (10/15/2022)

Gardner MA Centennial

Gardner MA to Hit Milestone on January 1, 2023

Gardner celebrates 100 years a City in just….

Europeans first settled what would be named Gardner in 1764. It received land grants from surrounding towns of Ashburnham, Templeton, Westminster, and Winchendon to become an incorporated town in 1785. Two decades later, it became a center for lumber and furniture. Gardner was incorporated as a city in 1923.

Gardner City Centennial is January 1, 2023