Gardner MA News February 2022

• Ukraine Support (2/28/2022)

  

  

  Supporting Ukraine: Gardner MA Liquor Store Pulls Russian Products from Shelves, City Hall Changes Colors

  Anthony’s had the following statement on Facebook, “Anthony’s Liquor Mart 12 Pearson Blvd. Gardner, Massachusetts has removed all Russian made and Russian “Branded” products from our store. We ask our colleagues in the liquor industry, both on and off premise to do the same.

  Gardner City Hall had the following statement, “Gardner City Hall is illuminated blue and yellow, joining many other buildings across the country in support of the people of Ukraine.”

• Gardner E-Commerce (2/28/2022)

  

  E-Commerce with Gardner MA

  There are many ways for individuals and businesses to interact with the City of Gardner MA online. We have a complete article with lots of links. CLICK HERE.

• City Council and Fees (2/28/2022)

  

  Read the packet provided on the City of Gardner website. CLICK HERE.

  

  Are Higher Fees needed in Gardner MA? Not so Fast…

  The Gardner MA City Council meets informally March 7, 2022 and once again will take up the issue of whether to raise Building Department and Fire Department Fees as requested by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.

  How Much Money is Coming in Now?

  Note that while the fees Gardner has been charging may be less than other communities, they are certainly not less than planned for in the budget. For example, Fire Department fees for fiscal year 2021 were planned to be about $5500, but more than double that , $12,975.00 was actually collected. Calendar year 2021 construction was valued at $12.5 million and the Building Department collected almost $377,000 in fees on this, or a little over 3 percent. Does Gardner really need a larger slice of the pie? The Gardner City Council will decide.

  The Mayor’s Position on Fire Dept. Fees

  Mayor Michael Nicholson took the position in a January 19. 2022 letter to the Gardner City Council entitled RE: Ordinance Proposal – Fire Department Fees “increase the fees for permits to reduce the amount that the taxpayers – who are not benefiting from the work being done – subsidize the work individuals and companies undertake by their own choosing.”   However, it is noted that contrary to the Mayor’s position in the Fire Dept. letter,  the mayor himself has spoken in favor of the benefits of the growth in the Chair City, some of which has made more Fire Department inspections necessary.

  City Auditor Email

  It is noted that according to a provided communication by the City Auditor John Richard,  the 2021 Revised Fire Department Budget had a line item planning for 5,539.00 in fees, but actual fees were $12,975.00, more than double what was anticipated. And that was for fiscal year 2021.

  

  It is also noted that the Mayor states “the functions of the inspections required by these permits took up approximately 50% of the time put in by our two fire departments inspectors, which equates to a time value of approximately $101,811.14.”  If that statement is accurate, it means each Fire Department inspector in total costs the City over $100,000 per year each.  Is that figure accurate?

  

  The Mayor’s Position on Building Department Fees

  In another letter of the same January 19, 2022 date entitled, “RE: Ordinance Proposal – Building Department Fees.” Mayor Nicholson stated, “With the large increase in permit applications and the larger request for inspections, we are looking to increase the fees for permits to reduce the amount that the taxpayers – who are not benefiting from the work being done – subsidize the work individuals are doing on their homes. “ Once again, it is noted that contrary to the Mayor’s position,  the mayor himself has spoken in favor of the growth in the City and its benefits to citizens, and citizens who were not part of the over 1000 building permits in the last year will benefit from the lower tax rate, and the fact that their neighbors who did improve properties will pay a higher share of overall property taxes.

  

  According to Roland Jean, C.B.O. Building Commissioner/Zoning Enforcement Officer, for the calendar year 2021, there was $12.5 million in construction value, of which $2.4 million was new residential, over $1.5 million was new commercial, and $8.6 million was additions/renovation.   The Inspectional Department Revenues on this was $366,916.00, or 3 percent of the construction value.   This represents fees higher than a year’s of interest on a mortgage and far exceeds the amount in points banks are charging.   Some citizens argue overall fees are too high, not too low.

  

  Commentary: Time will tell whether the City Council will raise the Fire and Building Departments fees either because they legally can or because they haven’t been raised in years, OR whether they will consider the very real positive  financial benefits Gardner citizens have enjoyed as a result of these long-running subsidies.  It may have been an inadvertent experiment in fiscal policy, but there are those citizens who would argue the lower fees have been an overall HUGE BENEFIT to the city which is in danger of having its positive growth trajectory being severely undermined by a 180 degree policy change.

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• Heywood 2-25-22 (2/27/2022)

  

  Watch the Heywood update on YouTube. CLICK HERE.

  Heywood Hospital of Gardner MA changes some Covid Policy

  According to statements made in a video update by Heywood CEO Win Brown, each patient not under precautions can have one healthy visitor. Visitors must still go through screening, wear masks, and use gel in and out. The CEO says he’s a little nervous with the dropping of mask mandates locally and school vacation and encourages residents to still wear masks inside when going to different places. Brown stated that as of 2-25-22, there were 10 Covid positive patients at Heywood.

  In good news for Heywood employees, Win Brown explained that while some employees have not received raises since the hospital raised its minimum starting wage to $18/hour, they will soon. starting with some employees getting increases in February and continuing until all commensurate increases have occurred.

  

  

  Surgical Wing Construction

  Win Brown also announced that parking will be soon limited due to the start of construction of the new surgical wing. He says permission has already been obtained for staff to park on Green Street and the hospital is inquiring whether the use of Mathews Street will be possible. The new Surgical Wing is expected to be completed sometime next year and add to Heywood’s capabilities.

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• Toothpicks (2/26/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Citizens React to the Toothpick Question

  With so much serious news, we thought it would be nice to take a break and venture into the world of triviality, in this case TOOTHPICKS. So I posted this on social media. “I’m doing an investigative article on toothpicks. Just what are these insidious objects up to in Gardner? I’d like to have the inside scoop on any of you who might know. We must get to the bottom of this.”

  Toothpicks are not a very controversial item, but nevertheless, the question drew a huge variety of comments.   Some took the question seriously, others thought I was completely out of my mind or was hacked, and others took it as humor.   While it was popular on one group, another social media group moderator censored the post and took it down because it was considered spam.  But, Gardner’s largest social media group seemed to have fun with it, even providing me with some fun graphics for this article.

  

  Gardner MA Toothpick Comments

  …I’m amongst the lost and confused here. If you mean why do folks ‘chew’ on them, or if they are an oft littered item, or if old Gardner furniture is being whittled or some other point (no pun intended) you didn’t quite make that clear…

  

  

  ….This made me laugh today THank you!

  ….Were you hacked?

  …Remember mint flavored toothpicks in individual packs with a point on each end?

  …Rietta Ranch has booth 26 , claims to be homemade

  

  

  …Just when we thought FB had become useless

  …I have enjoyed the use of a tooth pick or 2. When you get food jammed between your teeth you will appreciate having a tooth pick.

  

  …They are waiting patiently for some appetizers to pierce into and a bunch of friendly visitors to enjoy it with a few beers or glasses of wine.

  …I use them to color my buttercreme frosting with gel colorant when decorating cakes.

  …I’ve pricked by fingers because of these nuisance pieces of wood being stuck in the hor d’oeuvres

  …Most people who are paranoid about getting something stuck in their teeth carry dental floss and or dental picks!

  We thank Tammy for sharing this. “The Yankee tradition was to whittle a toothpick on demand. It did not make sense to spend money on something one could make for oneself, let alone for something that would be used once and then discarded. But Forster came up with ingenious marketing schemes. He first targeted stationers, who dealt in small items. When he could not place his product in their stores, he hired personable young people to go to those same retailers and ask for wooden toothpicks. Naturally, the retailers had to turn away the potential customers. Shortly afterward, Forster would make return visits to the stores, where he easily sold his wares. To reinforce the wisdom of the shopkeeper’s decision, Forster’s shills soon came back to ask again for toothpicks, and this time the sales were made. The boxes of toothpicks were then returned to Forster, who could resell them to the retailer, who now was prepared to talk them up to real customers.”

  Known in all cultures, the toothpick is the oldest instrument for dental cleaning. Hominin remains from Dmanisi, Georgia, dated to about 1.8 million years ago, bear lesions indicating the repeated use of a “toothpick”. Toothpicks made of bronze have been found as burial objects in prehistoric graves in Northern Italy and in the East Alps. More on toothpicks from wikipedia.

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• Mayor’s Update 2-25-22 (2/25/2022)

  

  Watch the entire Mayor’s Update on YouTube or on our Mayor’s update page. CLICK HERE

  We took the time to transcribe the Mayor’s comments on the Gardner Police Department situation. They are below.

  Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson comments on Review/Investigation of Gardner Police Department.

  The Mayor stated that it was announced this week that there are personnel changes at the Gardner Police Department, going on to state that those are personnel matters so we can’t say too much, but stating the Chief and Deputy Chief have been placed on paid administrative leave for non-disciplinary reasons. And then the mayor said quite a lot and we quote exactly what he said below:

  “We want to highlight that it is a non-disciplinary reason.  It’s following votes of no-confidence taken by the 4 police unions.  That’s the Patrol officers, the superior officers, so the sergeants and lieutenants, the dispatchers, and the animal control officers.   So what’s currently being done is we have currently have someone doing a review of the department’s operations, they’ve interviewed the employees of the department. We’ve just completed interview 35 with that individual.  The chief and the deputy chief are also being interviewed as part of this so they are in the process as well.  And it’s just a way to find out what’s going on, what could be changed, and how to make the department better.  In the meantime, retired Police Chief Vincent Alfano, who used to be the Police Chief in Bolton and Ashland is helping lead the department there. And there was a story and a profile about him in the Gardner News this past week as well. So we want to thank you for  your patience.  And particularly,in,  we’re asking people to remember, that these are personnel matters.  That we have to make sure that the review and the  investigation that’s happened  is done as fair and objectively as possible.  So that’s why the specifics of the investigation and what was, the issues that were raised and things like that can not be made public until after the investigation is done, at which case the investigation report will be considered public record and can be obtained at that point.  But we want to make sure that everything between what’s happening now and when that report gets released is as fair, honest, and objective as possible and isn’t swayed by some public opinion by the rumour mill  going by once the story gets out about something and changes and changes.  So that’s why things in terms of the details in terms of  the investigation can’t be released now.  But we want to let you know that we are doing everything we can to make sure that everything gets done in a quick and efficient manner that’s also effective and fair for those involved.  So thank you very much for your patience on that matter as well.”

  

  Mayor Nicholson gave his usual thanks, praise, and condolences during his weekly update. The Mayor has proposed waiving all student athletic fees in the upcoming School Budget. Previously, the fees estimated to be about $100 per student have been covered by various grants and according to Nicholson no Gardner High student has had to pay fees in the last two years..

• FREE TESTS GIVEN (2/25/2022)

  

  Over 3000 FREE Covid Test Kits distributed February 24, 2022 at PACC in Gardner MA

  According to Mayor Nicholson, “We gave away about 35 cases (each case has 90 kits) there’ll still be some available for free at the Health Department in City Hall”

• Board of Health News 2-23-22 (2/24/2022)

  

  Watch the entire meeting. CLICK HERE.

  Gardner MA Board of Health Lifts Mandate and Advisory

  With Gardner’s Covid positivity rate of 26% in January having dropped to 8.9% and continuing to fall, the Gardner MA Board of Health has immediately lifted its mask mandate for municipal buildings and senior housing.  The community mask advisory was also immediately lifted.

  

  Property changed hands in 2020 according to the Worcester Registry of Deeds. But, a previous owner is somehow collecting rents from tenants and somehow interfering with current owner’s desire to make repairs to property for benefit of renters. — It’s all headed for COURT!

  Update on Graham Street Violations and Owner Dispute

  According to the Gardner MA Board of Health, the currently listed owner and landlord attempted access to the property to address a tenant’s heat problem. However, Gardner Police were summoned to the property by a man who was a previous owner and is somehow collecting rents illegally according to the current owner. To avoid confrontation, owner left and repairs were not made. Board of Health states tenants are using space heaters to stay warm. In an attempt at remedying the problem, The Board of Health has filed in Housing Court. Gardner MA City Solicitor Flick will represent the City on Friday, March 11th. No reason was given why previous owner on property illegally was not arrested and why current owner was not assisted by Gardner PD in helping tenants, as suggested by Board of Health at January meeting.

  Board Doing Right Thing to Help Citizen

  Board did not identify property involved in another situation apparently involving the Gardner MA Building Department, Fire, EMS, and police. A property was condemned due to no electricity, no running water, ceilings falling in, and lots of mold. Individual received temporary housing and was signed up for Mass Health.

  The Honey Buns and Expired Food Scandal

  Board did not identify a local business it is calling before the Board of Health at its next meeting March 28, 2022 in person at Gardner MA City Hall. Business is accused of having expired food on the shelves despite numerous inspections uncovering the same, having leaks in the ceiling, illegally splitting up packages of Honey Buns, and maintaining a store temperature of 48 degrees. No explanation as to why the business was not immediately cited and closed down. Board of Health Administrative Coordinator Angela DiPrima stated to Gardner Magazine that the business would be identified in the agenda for the upcoming March meeting, generally released about a week before.

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• City Council Fees 2-22-22 (2/23/2022)

  

  Watch the February 22, 2022 Gardner MA City Council meeting on YouTube or visit our Gardner MA City Council page. CLICK HERE.

  

  The subject of fee increases will come up again at a meeting of the whole in March with input for the Gardner MA City Council.

  Will the Gardner MA City Council Increase Fees and shut off the valves of Growth, Progress, and Community Improvement or would it be a much- needed course correction?

  The Gardner MA City Council is not moving hastily on the matter. A meeting of the committee as a whole will gather additional input in March regarding Fire Department, Building Department, and other fee schedules before increasing them. We have a section going in to more detail on the pros and cons of fee increases. CLICK HERE.

  More News – Approved Items of Interest

  The City Council rescinded its order to spend free cash for a new police department vehicle as the funds can come instead from the American Rescue Plan funds. Downtown Gardner trash containers will be replaced at a cost of $15,000. Money for the athletic fields at the high school was not immediately approved as councilors wanted more information on the project. The Witches Wardrobe was granted a second-hand goods license and now also has the first fortune teller license in the Chair City. The Ordinance increasing fines dramatically for not clearing snow in Downtown was sent to a second printing, making it a done deal.

  Much Disagreement over S. Graves Lawsuit

  Councilor James Boone explained that the scope of the S. Graves lawsuit against the City of Gardner concerns desired information about heating unit coils allegedly damaged by questionable city water. Boone asked why zero information is being released and why doesn’t anybody question why there are no answers. Boone motioned to ask the City Solicitor why it’s a conflict of interest to represent the City – it was defeated 4-6. The overall motion to transfer $5000 to the S Graves lawsuit account passed 6-4. Issues with Gardner water causing premature failure of heating coils continues to this day as evidenced by disgruntled residents who comment in news on Social Media.

  Other Matters Before the Gardner City Council

  

  

  During a brief joint convention of the City Council and School Committee, Eric Commodore was appointed to a 4 year term on the Monty Tech School Committee.

  It was disputed whether the other appointment on the meeting agenda, that of an unexpired 2 term was actually a valid vacancy. The recording of the meeting was corrupted at this point so we don’t have details on how that vote turned out. Play the video, CLICK HERE

  More News on the Fees

  

  Growth Formula or Fees Too Low?

  Some would argue that when things are going your way, you don’t mess with the formula.  For years, the City of Gardner’s winning recipe kept various Fire Department and Building Department fees below the actual cost of the work involved, sometimes far below. Packet from last meeting with examples of other towns

   In fact, when the matter was brought before the City Council, examples of fees charged by other area communities demonstrably proved that Gardner was charging far lower fees than it could.   Documents proved that the fees simply were not covering the cost of the work.  Gardner was subsidizing almost every building built and every home improvement made.  The Chair City had its highest year ever of building permits recently with over one thousand in the recent year.

  

  Unprecedented growth with the Subsidy

  Whether it was a major contributing cause or not, the fact is the City of Gardner did have unprecedented growth during the period of this fee subsidy.  The Chair City had highest total number of building permits of any year, ever.  

  …Many announcements of businesses choosing Gardner.   …Government leaders choosing Gardner in approving grants.   …The City of Gardner had begun a snowball of success with the valves of Growth, Progress, and Community Improvement seemingly wide open with a very good future ahead of the Chair City.  

  

  Argument for Increasing fees

  The argument for increasing fees was this:  The business desiring the service should pay for it, not the citizens of the city. And the cost of services provided by the Fire and Building Departments was not being covered by the fees charged.

  Department budgets had to be increased to cover the costs.  And similarly, the homeowner desiring the renovation should pay fully for the cost involved in inspections etc., which could be garnered through increased fees.   Lastly, Gardner was so far below what other area communities are currently charging that  the City’s success shouldn’t be affected negatively if it simply brought fees up to par.

  

  Argument for Leaving Fees alone and continuing subsidy

  The argument against increasing fees included this: The cost of subsidizing fees impacting business was far outweighed by the huge benefit to the City of Gardner MA from getting more business in a community which had been losing it before.  

  And the argument against increasing fees for homeowners is that when a property is improved, its assessment goes up.  Those who choose not to improve or who can’t afford to improve get the benefit when their taxes are lowered, such as when the tax rate dropped substantially this year.  Arguably, citizens who didn’t improve had a net financial benefit by the City incentifying others to improve with the lower fees.  Arguably, the lower fees charged business was more attractive policy than some believed.

  The Future will be the Judge

  Time will tell whether higher fees impact negatively the amount of business or industry attracted to Gardner.   History will be the judge of whether increasing fees to homeowners negatively affects the number of those who choose to improve.  The future will be the judge of whether subsidizing fees for the Building and Fire Departments was pure genius that demonstrably helped Gardner, or whether the City was just flushing money down the drain.

• Paycheck Protection (2/23/2022)

  

  According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Paycheck Protection Program is an SBA-backed loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Covid-19 crisis.  U.S. Government page, CLICK  HERE.   Information from the U.S. Treasury Department – CLICK HERE.

  Paycheck Protection Program for Greater Gardner MA Gets Watchdog

  Who in Gardner got PPP loans and how much?   A searchable website called PPP Detective was started to make sure businesses who received the money actually existed.  The paycheck protection program was intended to offset the dire consequences many businesses faced due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Search

  While most all of the names on this list obviously exist, the PPP detective asks that citizens flag any which were made to non-existent businesses or to businesses who grossly overstated the number of employees. Here’s a link to PPP Loans for Gardner.  You can customize the search for your community. CLICK HERE We also have pdfs of all the Gardner MA loans. Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6 and Part 7

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• School Vacation (2/20/2022)

  

  What to do during Greater Gardner MA School Vacation Week of February 21-25, 2022

  Take a trip to the Movie Theater and see a flick. Use or get a library card at your local library. Buy some stuff at a local store. Stay home and stream something. Or go on an adventure like below:

  

  Ecotarium, Worcester  Tues. 2/22 to Fri. 2/25

  Their education team cooks up creative ways to learn and have fun — all designed especially for school-age kids and their families. Visit Site.

  

  Wachusett Winterfest Science on the Slopes – February Vacation week Mon 2/21 to Friday 2/25

  This is NOT the week to sit at home! Come enjoy a full list of activities with your friends and family here at Wachusett! In addition to skiing, enjoy a fun week of programming at the mountain. Visit Site.

  

  Massachusetts State Park Programs

  There are February Vacation Week programs at Massachusetts State Parks. Visit Site.

  Most all programs are free unless noted. Parking fees may apply. Dress for the weather, carry water and snacks, and cell phones.

  

  Enchanted Forest at Fruitlands, Harvard through Sun. February 27, 2022

  The Frost King has come to spend the winter at the Fruitlands Fairy Forest and he has brought all sorts of new enchantment. Visit Site.

  

  Ice Castles, New Hampshire

  Ice Castles is an award-winning frozen attraction built using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists to create breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, and fountains. Visit site

• Help Wanted (2/19/2022)

  

  A great site to use in looking for work is Indeed.com as you can easily search by area and type of job desired. CLICK HERE. Another great source for employers and job seekers is the MassHire North Central Career Center. CLICK HERE

  

  

  Gardner MA Employers Competing for Workers

  If you are a hard worker or have unique talents, right now might be a great time to look for work as many Greater Gardner MA employers want you! See links to resources at left.

  On February 19, 2022 there were a number of Administrative jobs available:

  Seaman Paper Company is looking for an Executive and HR Administrator, Mount Wachusett Community College is looking for Clerk IV ACT (Academic, Career, and Transfer), Patient Scheduler, Secretary -Radiology at Heywood Hospital, After School Program Coordinator at House of Peace & Education, Inc., Transfer Station Monitor for city of Gardner, Transportation Coordinator at NRT Bus Inc., Payroll Administrator at Temp-Secure Staffing, Maintenance Clerk at Garlock Printing & Converting, Furniture Warehouse Manager at Lachance Interiors, and Clerk III Box Office at Mount Wachusett Community College, Database Administrator at Gardner Public Schools

  If you’re looking for Healthcare, we found these:

  Patient Registrar, Patient Registration at Heywood Hospital, Lab Assistant at vivitide in Gardner, Dental Office Manger at Javad Mirzai DMD  PLLC, Dental Assistant at Gardner Family Dental Care, and Behavior Technician at Behavioral Health Links.

  Do you like to be involved in the making of things? Manufacturing Jobs available include:

  Packer at Garlock Printing and Converting, General Laborer at Titan Transportation Services, Packers at Advanced Cable Ties, Machine Operator at Standard Chair of Gardner, Polisher at Continental Feed Screw, Door and Window Manufacturing at Specialty Wholesale Supply/Maki Building Centers in Gardner, and Wood Department Group Leader at Standard Chair.

  

  Customer Service, Retail, and Food Industry Jobs are available at a number of locations in Gardner MA:

  

  KFC Team member, Cashier at Price Chopper, Barista at Starbucks, Crew Team member at McDonald’s, Retail Store Associate at CVS, Store Associate/Stocker at Big Lots, Crew member at Dunkin Donuts, Ice Cream Preparer at Friendly’s (16+), Footwear Fitting Sales Associate at Dow Shoe Store, Entrance Screener at Heywood Hospital, Store Associate at Hannaford, Greeter and Customer Service Representative at SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service, Host Staff, Bartender, Dish Machine Operator, and Servers at Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub, Retail Sales Associate at Staples, Wedding Hostess, Restaurant Server, and Banquet Server at Colonial Hotel, Domino’s Pizza Delivery, Retail Staff at Gamestop, Sales Floor Associate at Dollar Tree, Delivery Driver at Papa Gino’s, Asset Protection Coach Trainee/Manager at Walmart, Team Member at Tractor Supply, Furniture Delivery Driver at Lachance Interiors, Verizon Wireless Sales Consultant, T-Mobile Retail Sales Associate, Lumber Yard Worker at National Lumber.

  

  Interesting Jobs available outside of the City of Gardner MA include a Radio Show Morning Host, a Library Director, an Athletic Director, or a Surveillance Investigator

  Radio Show Morning Host at WPKZ Radio in Fitchburg, Library Director for the City of Fitchburg or Town of Erving, Hall Monitor at the Ralph C. Mahar School District in Orange, Landscape Gardener at Fassett Farm Nursey in Jaffrey NH, Reading Tutor at the Village School in Barre, Railroad Laborer in Worcester, Middle High School Athletic Director in West Boylston, Board Clerk/Secretary – Town of Lunenburg, Camera Shader, Worcester Red Sox, Worcester – , Photographer for the Worcester Red Sox, also Technical Director and Broadcast Audio Operator, Automotive Detailer at Bouchard Automotive Group in Fitchburg, Barn Help at Highland Hill Farm in Berlin, Heavy Equipment Operator at Accura Construction Corp in New Ipswich, NH, Police Officer at Barre Police Department, Doggie Daycare Attendant at Destination Pet LLC, Shrewsbury, Entry Level Surveillance Investigator at DigiStream New England, Fitchburg and Worcester, Athletic Director at Camp Atwater in North Brookfield, Director of Finance and Operations, Winchendon Public Schools, Horseback Riding Instructor at Century Mill Stables in Bolton, Academic Recruitment Counselor at Fitchburg State University, Canine Center Attendant at NEADS World Class Service Dogs in Princeton, Bridal Consultant at Country Bridals and Formal Wear in Jaffrey, Art Model at SharonKnettell in Worcester, and Crew member at Sisco Timber in Winchendon.

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• Celebrating Presidents’ Day (2/18/2022)

  

  Gardner MA February 22, 2022.  – Presidents’ Day

  Our Special Presidents’ Day page Chronicles all of the U.S. Presidents. CLICK HERE. Our “Poem of the Presidents”  is a tribute to the service of all of U.S. Presidents.   CLICK HERE.

• Mask Mandate Gone (2/18/2022)

  

  Read 2/28/22 letter from Gardner Superintendent of Schools Mark Pellegino. CLICK HERE.

  Not so Fast! Greater Gardner Mask Mandate only Partially Rescinded.

  While on February, 28, 2022, masks will no longer be required in Gardner Public Schools and other schools in area communities, all students and staff must still wear masks on school buses. There are other requirements and recommendations, and changing circumstances could bring the masks back.

• Win 10 Grand! (2/18/2022)

  

  Huge Drawing Looms in Greater Gardner MA Super Raffle

  On February 23, 2022 at 7pm, 11 lucky tickets will be drawn out of no more than 400 tickets sold.  Top prize is $10,000.   See image at left. For more information, you can visit the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce website. CLICK HERE.

• Concept to Reality (2/18/2022)

  

  

  From Concept to Reality – Real new Gardner MA Elementary School getting closer to Artist’s drawing.

  We have a progress photos page using screenshots from publicly provided drone video. To view the exciting page of photos of the school slated to open to students in Fall 2022, CLICK HERE

• Mayor’s Update 2-18-22 (2/18/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson releases weekly update

  View on YouTube or on our Mayor’s Update page. CLICK HERE. Mayor Nicholson did not address the Police Department situation in this week’s update.

  Community Development Block Grant

  The Mayor reports that the City has received a $825,000 Community Development Block grant.  It is Federal money State of MA divides among communities for development projects including infrastructure improvements and social programs.   600 grand is allocated towards infrastructure in Downtown Gardner, 30 thousand towards design of next  year’s investments, and the remaining almost $200,000 is going towards assistance in homelessness programs, domestic violence counseling, substance abuse prevention programs, and other counseling services.

  FREE Covid 19 Test Distribution

  There will be another Covid 19 test distribution day at the PACC  Thursday, February 24, 2022 from 12 noon  until 7pm at the Polish American Citizens Club., 171 Kendall Pond Road West, Gardner.   CLICK FOR DIRECTIONS.   3 kits each containing 2 Rapid tests.  Gardner and Westminster MA residents eligible.

  

  Mask Mandates

  Gardner Board of Health votes next week regarding mask mandate for public buildings and mask advisory for rest of City.

  As far as masks in Gardner Public Schools, the Mayor made reference to the statewide lifting of the mask mandate on Feb. 28th. Later in the day, Gardner School Superintendent Mark Pellegrino issued a letter lifting the mandate as of 2/28/22. See Full letter. CLICK HERE.

  The Gardner School Committee approved a new program of studies for Gardner High School requiring Gardner Juniors to take a financial literacy course.

  Upcoming Items

  The Gardner City Council is meeting Tuesday next week because of the Presidents Day holiday – Mayor has submitted various proposals. Agenda packet includes items from Inaugural and is a huge 437 pages. CLICK HERE.

  Food Truck Festival is back on Saturday, July 9th with 20 food trucks confirmed to date.

  Gardner High School has an upcoming musical entitled, “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” March 17,18, & 19, 2022 7pm at Landry Auditorium and Gardner Middle School has upcoming concerts 3/8 and 3/9.

• Gardner Police (2/18/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Police Chief Braks and Deputy Police Chief Trifiro out on paid Administrative Leave

  According to published reports, the two men were placed on leave following a group of no-confidence votes by Gardner PD members represented by all four unions in the Department.  Jennifer Law, who served as Gardner Dispatch Director also got a no-confidence vote and voluntarily left her position. Former retired Bolton Chief of Police Vincent Alfano is acting Gardner Police Chief.  An outside investigation is underway.

• Puzzle Swapping (2/18/2022)

  

  Want to improve short-term memory? Some studies show doing jigsaw puzzles can improve cognition, visual-spacial reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

  Greater Gardner MA Residents engaged in PUZZLE SWAPPING.

  Some of us can’t even put a simple item together despite accurate directions. Then there are the elite of us who can put 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles together. Once done, many like to Puzzle Swap with other skilled Puzzle People. Some do it among themselves, some through Gardner MA area libraries, organizations, or groups. We even found a Jigsaw Puzzle Swap Exchange. CLICK HERE.

• Dog Laws (2/17/2022)

  

  With Dog Licensing now FREE in Gardner MA for residents over age 70, Gardner Magazine posts all MA Dog Laws.

  For a PDF of Massachusetts General Laws in Effect on February 17, 2022 concerning dogs, CLICK HERE. Good info to know.

  Note: It appears that Service Animals are included in the NO FEE provision under Section 139 (c). Also, if you are over 70 and you pay the dog licensing fee by mistake, the law states you don’t get a refund.

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• Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals (2/16/2022)

  

  In Gardner MA, the approval process regarding construction and property improvements is designed for a result fair to all concerned parties. Input is possible from the public at Meetings.

  Inside the Gardner MA Zoning Board of Appeals

  During the meeting of February 15, 2022, the Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals is chaired by Raymond F. LaFond.   Michael Gerry is the Clerk.  The other member is Randall Heglin.  Rachael Taylor is the Administrative Coordinator. To watch the meeting on YouTube  CLICK HERE.

  We’re highlighting this meeting because it showcases just how carefully and just how seriously this Board takes their duties to advance progress while at the same time protecting the community.  The main topic in this meeting was a multi-family property located at 163-165 Pine Street in Gardner – CLICK FOR MAP – for which Gardner Holding Company was seeking a special permit.   Essentially, the contractor will be bringing one of Gardner’s blighted buildings back into use, benefitting potential renters and the tax rolls. 

  However, citizens of Gardner should be aware of the careful process.   There are nine requirements for special permits:  In summary, it shall be suitably located in the neighborhood, provide convenient and safe vehicular and pedestrian movement, provide adequate space for parking etc., provide adequate and appropriate facilities and utilities etc., shall not constitute and nuisance etc., shall not be a substantial inconvenience or hazard etc., shall not have a significant detrimental impact on city etc., and be consistent with City’s community development plan or master plan.    For complete official list of  9 requirements, CLICK HERE.

  The Board approved the variance after reviewing each of the required elements and even hearing from the applicant again.  This was also after a site visit which the Board did on its own time on a weekend day. The Board can take 14 days to write its decision.   Once the applicant receives a time-stamped decision, it must wait 20 days to allow for potential appeals from others. Once 20 days has expired, the applicant can move forward.   Often an applicant may work with various other City Departments including the Planning Board, Building Department, and others. For the official page of the Gardner Zoning Board, CLICK HERE

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• Local Flower-Gift (2/16/2022)

  

  Last Minutes Gift and Flowers of Gardner MA Gets Perfect Score

  Gardner Magazine publisher Werner Poegel wrote this on Social Media, “Not sure how they did it, but Gardner’s Last Minute Gifts and Flowers has a perfect customer review score on Google. I don’t know them myself, but I plan a visit to learn something about customer service, because evidently they have mastered it, all in the middle of a hectic Holiday. Congratulations!”    Reaction was swift with over 117 likes and over 57 comments of praise for the merchant on “Gardner What’s Going On” and  51 likes with 21 comments of praise on “Gardnerites United.” Congratulations on a public well satisfied!

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• Schools 2-14-22 (2/15/2022)

  

  

  The Gardner MA School Committee meetings can be watched on YouTube or on our School Committee page. CLICK HERE.

  The meeting ended with positive comments by School Committee members:

  Shannon Ward-Leighton thanked the Central office staff for getting her up to speed. Impressed with school improvement plans.

  Anne Hurst – stated that there was a lot to be proud of in this district and she was proud to be part of it. “The people who think so negatively about things are not informed, and don’t realize what is actually happening. I appreciate everybody and all they do.”

  Gardner MA School Committee meets for Valentine’s Day session

  The tone of the Valentine’s Day School Committee meeting was overwhelmingly positive as a successful teacher was recognized and the various school principals chronicled the successes of the various programs which have been put in place to improve learning in the Schools. The common theme was one of stressing continual evaluation through constant data gathering to improve academic performance, attendance, and discipline. It was stated that when students feel supported, they come to school more.

  Next year’s Junior class will be the first class where financial literacy will be a graduation requirement. Goal: Students can balance a checkbook, cook a meal, and sew a button. Superintendent Pellegrino added, “No credit cards, don’t be in debt.” Other discussions focused on the positive aspects and development and increased parental involvement including the PTO.

  Robert Swartz reported that the School District had ordered 90 tons of salt for the winter and had already used 65 tons due to the type of winter we’ve had.

  Student Representative Gino Divito announced that the High School had begun practice for the yearly Musical which this year will be “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” to be performed March 17-19. Also, the National Honor Society inducted 24 new members.

  Supt. Pellegrino indicated he’ll be making a decision on masks on Friday after the Safety Committee Meeting, noting the masking mandate is done as of February 28, 2022.

  The School Committee voted unanimously to accept students for School Choice in the coming year and approved School Calendar 2022-23 Option 1 which features 4 full days of professional development up front and 4 1/2 days at other times in school year. A survey of parents and staff had been held with 59% desiring Option 1.

  

  Jennifer Pelavin -“Everything is starting to come together. It’s just all positive news and I’m glad to see it.”

  Gino Divito – “It’s a lot cooler to see how much things have changed over the years.”

  Robert Swartz – “Thanks for the nurses who are working very hard to keep us healthy.”

  John LaFreniere – “Thanks to the Principals and their staffs for putting together these programs and presenting to us. Looks great, proud of them.”

  
  Rachael Cormer – ” I have praise for Alison Lombardi.”

  Mayor Nicholson – “Rockwell committee committed just under 100 grand.”

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• Math of Covid update (2/15/2022)

  

  

  (We credit the Boston Herald for a records request from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health which shed light on the issue.)

  The Real Risk of Dying From Covid in MA is Finally Out

  First, direct from the Covid Dashboard, there have been 22,188 deaths in MA as of February 13, 2022, Click on Chart at left for larger view.

  Cases by Vaccination Status

  Unvaxed Cases since December 2020: 928,178 – Hospitalizations: 19,766 – Deaths: 6,515 – .70%

  Fully Vaccinated breakthrough Cases since December 2020: 325,204 – Hospitalizations: 5,299 – Deaths: 1,319 – .41%

  Cases in Boosted Individuals: 69,398 – Hospitalizations: 586 – Deaths: 180 – .26%

  Printable pdf combining two recent Covid Articles, CLICK HERE.

  Bottom Line – Risk of Death

  So what does this all mean? it means that if you get vaxed, you cut your risk of death from Covid by 41%. If you get boosted, you cut your risk of death from Covid by 62%. Note: Underlying illness is a great risk as of all breakthrough deaths, 63% had underlying illness.

  

  

  How Do Masks Work?

  Masks are helpful in reducing viral transmission. But, it’s important to know the entire story.

  We have a very complicated 11 page PDF from the National Institutes of Health. CLICK HERE.

  Risk of Getting Covid – Do Vaccines Work?

  The differences are much greater when we unpack the overall risk of having to deal with what all agree can be a very unpleasant illness. More than half of unvaxed people get Covid. Only 1 in 16 vaxed people get the disease. And only 1 in 38 people who are boosted get the disease.

  The Details

  Unvaxed in MA: 1.7 million, Cases 928,178 since December 2020 54% get Covid —- Vaxed in MA: 5,200,000, Cases 325,204 since December 2020 6.3% get Covid —– Boosted in MA: 2,700,000, Cases 69,398. 2.6% get Covid

  .

• Gardner MA Covid (2/14/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Positive Covid Cases down 91 percent from the last report one month ago. View report from last month

  The State of Massachusetts also does Covid-19 Response Reporting. Information was just updated as of 5:30pm 2/14/22. Chart below. Here’s the link if you want to view more data. CLICK HERE.

  Gardner MA Covid School Cases Down, Wide Participation in Covid Testing

  The Gardner Public School Covid-19 Bi-Weekly DASHBOARD was updated just before 11am on February 14, 2022.  Total Current Positive Cases are 10, down from 114 reported one month ago, a decrease of over 91 percent.    A new statistic is being reported: 324 staff in home testing program and 638 students in home testing program.     The Massachusetts Mask Mandate for schools goes away February 28, 2022.   Gardner has not  yet announced whether the mask mandate will be lifted locally.

  Note: The Gardner MA School Committee meets Monday, February 14, 2022 at 7pm in the City Council Chamber. We’ll bring you information from this meeting as soon as it becomes available. Here is the posted agenda: CLICK HERE

  Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Interactive Covid Response

  

  

  The Covid Cases rates per 100,000 people have also fallen. For example, on the last report Gardner was at 200.2. In this recent report covering the past 2 weeks. the number has dropped to 119.3, a drop of more than 40%. With this trend, the overall current number of Covid cases in the Gardner MA population is likely much lower as the data reporting covers a rolling past two-week period.

  CLICK on the image at left for a large view showing Covid Case Counts/100,000 covering past 2 weeks for all towns of Worcester County.

• Valentine’s Day (2/13/2022)

  

  Greatest Valentine’s Day Card

  Happy Valentine’s Day Greater Gardner MA. View our article on the Greatest Valentine’s Day card and original poem. For the complete article, CLICK HERE.

  

• Poem – Presidents (2/13/2022)

  

  We have a love of everything history including that of the Greater Gardner MA area. For more on Presidents of the United States, please visit our special page for the holiday. CLICK HERE.

  Poem of the Presidents released in Templeton MA

  Gardner Magazine publisher Werner Poegel has released an original 50 Stanza poem entitled “Poem of the Presidents” as a tribute to the service of our nation’s Chief Executives on the occasion of Presidents’ Day 2022. For the complete poetic work, CLICK HERE

• Mayor 2-11-22 (2/12/2022)

  

  Watch the Gardner MA Mayor’s Updates on YouTube or via our Mayor’s Update page. CLICK HERE.

  Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson Delivers List of Reminders This Week

  Dog Licenses now available. Fees waived for residents who are 70 or turn 70 this calendar year. However, all must register dogs by March 31 to avoid late fees.

  Excise tax bills recently mailed out. Reach out to City Hall if bill not received in next week or so.

  Sign up for Code Red to get notifications regarding parking bans and other announcements.

  Second printing of increased fines for non-compliance with Downtown Gardner snow removal ordinance to occur February 22, 2002 at next City Council meeting. Action deemed needed due to some property owners not clearing snow.

  Next FREE Covid Rapid test distribution day to be Saturday February 26, 2022 from 1 to 7pm. Available to residents of City of Gardner and town of Westminster.

  FREE Salt and sand available at DPW if you bring a bucket.

  Chamber Super Raffle now going on

  Catholic Charities Housing assistance program – Grand Opening on Lake Street February 17, 2022 at 4pm

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• Mask Mandate (2/12/2022)

  

  Gardner Public Schools is currently not making any data available as to the number of staff and students afflicted with Covid. No word as to why.

  Gardner MA Schools go DARK on Covid Data, Mum on Masks

  Gardner Public Schools Covid Dashboard hasn’t been updated in a month. The current DASHBOARD was checked on January 28, 2022 and again on February 12, 2022 – still states updating and has missing data. No word on why. With the statewide Mask Mandate expiring February 28, 2002 we are waiting for word on whether Gardner Public Schools will be requiring masks in March or not. As of this date, the official website has no information.

• White Cloud (2/11/2022)

  

  More of the Diner Experience

  Other diners in the area with decent Google reviews include Blue Moon Diner, Gardner MA Facebook Directions – Kellies, Athol MA Website Directions – Ruschioni’s Cruisin 12 Diner, Winchendon MA Website Directions – Hometown Cafe, Winchendon MA Directions – Hubb Town Diner, Hubbardston MA Website Directions – Heavy Evies Diner Rutland MA Website Directions – The Hen House East Templeton MA Directions -Westminster Cafe Westminster MA Facebook Directions

  White Cloud Diner in Orange MA Knows How to Communicate

  Occasionally we come across a business which can serve as a positive lesson to others. In this case, the White Cloud Diner located at 627 E. River Street Orange, MA 01364 Directions.

  The diner posted its menu board on Facebook with the most graceful and clear penmanship we’ve seen in a long time. And that’s not the only communication art at which the diner excels. With a 4.6 Google Rating consisting of 315 Reviews, these courteous business owners recently responded to a 4 star rating with “Thank you, we hope you come back and we can earn that last star.” And here’s what one reviewer said, “Do not sleep on this little gem. This cozy spot will leave you floating on a little bliss cloud.” Check the reviews out yourself. CLICK HERE.

  From White Cloud: ” Our family owned and run diner has been in operation since 1958, although the newest family has only started in December 2018. We are across from the Orange Airport, and offer a delicious selection of breakfasts and lunches. Come check us out!”

  White Cloud Diner has a Facebook page: CLICK HERE

• Bud Barn (2/10/2022)

  

  Cannabis Business – Grand Opening Winchendon MA 2-12-22

  At the site of what was the Cozy Cupola Gift Shop for over a decade, Co-owner Marla LaGrassa is now in the POT business. The Bud Barn, located at 682 Spring Street Winchendon has a website for more information. CLICK HERE.

• Covid February Update (2/9/2022)

  

  For the Massachusetts Covid Dashboard, CLICK HERE.

  Covid Reports are a Mixed Bag for the Greater Gardner MA Area

  The Covid Incidence Rate per 100,000 is still high for the past two weeks in the Greater Gardner MA area. However, cases in Massachusetts as a whole are plummeting to the lowest levels in months. See the sharp downward lines on the 4 graphs below. CLICK on the image at left or below for larger view.

  

• Dog Licenses (2/9/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Dog Licenses Now Available

  From the City of Gardner, “2022 Dog Licenses are now available. For more information please call the Clerk’s Office at 978-630-4058 or visit https://www.gardner-ma.gov/702/Dog-License.” Please note: Due to a City Council vote 2 days ago, if you’re over 70, your dog license(s) are FREE.

• City Council 2-7-22 (2/8/2022)

  

  Watch Gardner MA City Council meetings on YouTube or on our City Council page. CLICK HERE.

  Complete Meeting Agenda and Complete Packet, CLICK HERE.

  Read our Editorial opposing Fee Increases. CLICK HERE.

  Gardner MA City Council Bunch Has Busy Monday Meeting

  The Gardner City Council met virtually on 2-7-22. Jim Boone was sworn in. Various mayoral appointments were confirmed. Councilor Heath attended via a combination of audio and sometimes video as well. The meeting recessed for swearing in of airport commissioners, and the rest of the meeting was presented as a second YouTube recording.

  

  Take the Sliver, or not

  A motion to put $30,000 of free cash in reserve was approved for the purpose of purchasing some small slivers of land near uptown rotary if needed. A related eminent domain proposal was also approved. It is believed the City of Gardner owns the land. Money to be returned to free cash if not needed.

  Free Dog Licenses for 70+

  Gardner residents aged 70 and over no longer have to pay for dog licenses. Proof of vaccinations still required, but license fees are gone. Cost to city up to about $5,000 per year.

  Praise for DPW and Appeal for Patience

  Councilors Heath and Boudreau praised the work of the DPW. Councilor Boudreau asked for citizens to be patient.

  Fortunes in Your Future?

  Applications by Witches Wardrobe for license to deal in second hand articles and for a Fortune Teller License were sent for further review.

  Feeling the Heat

  A motion to abate asbestos and design a new heating system for the South Gardner Fire station drew considerable debate as it was discussed that heat was needed mostly per FEMA requirements. Others suggested FEMA equipment could be stored at Prospect Street School. However, Mayor Nicholson explained FEMA storage is actually three trailers which require garage access and Gardner actually stores a fire engine with a water tank on it. The motion did pass with an appropriation of $22,200.00. Note: State is requiring boiler replacement after a failed inspection.

  Certain Fees May Be Going Up

  Council voted to have Fire Chief appear before full council to explain proposed new fees and to review new proposed fees from Building Department. According to the packet provided to the City Council, Fire Department collected $12,975.00 in service fees in last fiscal year. However, the 2 fire department inspectors put in time worth more than 8 times monies collected. Some fees would double. One fee, that for a plan review of less than 7500 square feet would go from $10 to $50, an increase of 400%.

  View agenda and packet document for current and proposed new fees as well as documentation that Gardner fees are in some cases much lower than some other communities. CLICK HERE. Current City fees are dated December 2013. To view CLICK HERE. Regarding Building Department Fees, Mayor Nicholson in a letter to the City Council stated “The last time the City adjusted building department fees was in 2007…revenue we collect on permits is much lower than surrounding and other comparable communities.”

  Clear the Sidewalk

  After announcing a letter was received on the topic by Gardner Square Two President Patti Bergstrom, a proposal to increase fines for property owners not clearing sidewalks in Downtown Gardner was approved and sent to first printing. It was pointed out that the current fine of $25 does not provide sufficient incentive to comply. New approved fine is up to 12 times as much: First offense: $100, Second offense $200, Third and subsequent offenses: $300.

  Appointments Approved

  Christine Oliva Kumar: City Assessor, term expiring January 19, 2025 – James Wood: Airport Commission Member, term expiring January 19, 2025 – Robert R. Swartz Jr.: Airport Commission Member, term expiring January 19, 2025. David Urquhart: Airport Commission Member, term expiring January 19, 2025. Ethan Kolodny: Assistant City Solicitor, term expiring January 3, 2023..

• National Pizza Day (2/5/2022)

  

  Celebrating Pizza in Greater Gardner MA February 9, 2022.

  National Pizza Day is celebrated in the Greater Gardner MA area on February 9, 2022.   With over 90 percent of Americans eating pizza at least once a month, it’s no wonder we all compare notes on PIZZA. And this area certainly has its fair share of pizza places. On any given day, more than 1 in 10 people aged 2 and over eats pizza.

  Restaurant Owners Facing Challenges

  Gardner Pizza places include Parker House, Domino’s, Sorrento’s, Garden, Papa Gino’s, West Broadway, Gardner Ale, and Patriot’s among others. Online reviews show that even the most popular pizza joints are having recent customer service issues on occasion due to various issues. Common complaints in the last month include lack of attention to quality of food, wrong orders, long waits or slow service, bad staff attitudes, and even bad attitudes when owners respond to reviews – never a good idea. There is one positive stand out to be noted: The Gardner Ale House is consistently getting great reviews in the last month. As far as other places, customers often note that the problem they faced was something new. So this week is a great time to turn things around.

  So on National Pizza Day, owners and pizza place staffers take notice: PAY ATTENTION, your future good business depends on it. And to the public: Please consider addressing the issue in person with the business before leaving a bad review online as most owners really want to please customers. Please staffers, owners, and customers, have patience with each other! And this week, try your pizza place again. You might just be pleasantly surprised.

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• First February Update (2/4/2022)

  

  

  Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson personally observes “Shovel Rage” and ADA violations

  In his Mayor’s Update of 2-4-22, Mayor Nicholson mentioned the challenges of recent weather. Desiring a first-person view, the Mayor did a ride along during snow clearing with a DPW plow driver. He observed a citizen throwing a shovel at the plow and reports that the shovel was crushed.

  Watch the updates on YouTube or on our Mayor’s Update page. CLICK HERE.

  Mayor Nicholson reminded Downtown Gardner property owners that snow needs to be cleared within 24 hours to meet ADA compliance and that a few tickets were issued to violators in the past week. He also passed along a request by the Fire Department to all citizens to please clear around Fire hydrants for everyone’s protection in the event of fire.

  

  Mayor Michael Nicholson reported that the FREE Covid Test Distribution was a successful event.   Gardner had reached out to 13 area communities regarding participation in a bulk order to help alleviate testing challenges faced by the communities.  

  Gardner, Athol, and Westminster did joint distribution that day. Others who elected to be included will announce separate dates. Gardner residents can pick up FREE Covid tests at the Board of Health in the basement of City Hall.

  

  Rockwell Grants

  Mayor Mike Nicholson announced that grants from the William Rockwell Educational Gift Fund amounted to over $99,000 this year, for a 6 year total of $548,000. Benefits to the school system include new art display cases so art shows can be held, coverage of sports program user fees for students receiving free or reduced lunch, and a unique Book Vending machine.

  

  The Book Vending machine at the new Gardner Elementary School will accept special tokens and change. This will allow teachers to reward children for good behavior by giving out tokens with which the kids can buy books and will allow all children to purchase books out of the vending machine to take home and read.

  The painting Willie Gillis in Convoy was produced in 1943, depicting Gillis, in combat gear, in the back of a covered military vehicle with his rifle in hand. Rockwell donated the painting to the Gardner High School for the graduating class, where it hung in the principal’s office until 2000.  The painting was sold in 2014 for $1.9 million with the proceeds used to create a foundation to benefit the schools in Gardner, the William Rockwell Educational Gift Fund . For more on the fictional character Willie Gillis created by Norman Rockwell, click here:

  

  Death of Don Lemieux

  Mayor Nicholson offered condolences and reflection on the death of Don Lemieux who coached the Gardner Swim Team and the Greenwood Memorial Swim Club and was still a Gardner City employee at the time of his death.

  

  Excise Taxes

  The Mayor advised citizens to contact the City Treasurer’s office if excise tax bill is not received in the next two weeks so late fees can be avoided. The concern is that apparently some bills get returned due to problems with addresses, the recipient doesn’t get the bill, and fees and penalties get added.

• Free Sanitizer (2/4/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Ocean State Job Lot offers FREE Hand sanitizer and wipes for Educators

  Now through February 16: Teachers, School Management, and school support personnel as well as homeschoolers can come in to the store and pick up hand sanitizer, hand wipes, and disinfectant wipes for FREE while supplies last. Ocean State says, “The COVID-19 pandemic has been especially difficult on our educators and we want to recognize these incredible individuals and help keep them-and their students-healthy.” Proof of employment required and homeschooler documentation needed. No purchase necessary.

• School Closings (2/3/2022)

  

  Greater Gardner MA School Closings

  The three network TV affiliates in Boston each publish updated school closing information for our area: Here are the links: ABC — NBC — CBS

• Accident (2/2/2022)

  

  Gardner MA Fire Department Responds to 5 Car Motor Vehicle Accident.

  From Gardner Fire 2-2-22 “Yesterday morning around 07:30, Gardner Fire Group 2 responded to Rt. 2 Eastbound for an MVA. On arrival they had a 5 car MVA, with one car rolled over on its roof in the middle of the highway.

  

  Gardner Fire apparatus were immediately positioned to shut the highway down to protect the civilians out on the highway and those still in the vehicles involved in the crash. In total, 9 people were involved in the accident with only one being transported to Heywood Hospital with minor injuries. Rt. 2 was shut down for about two hours until the vehicles could be towed away. A group recall was requested for station coverage while the on duty Fire and EMS crews were operating on Route 2.”

• Library Flood (2/1/2022)

  

  Ashburnham MA Library Damaged by Water

  On January 31, 2022, the Stevens Memorial Library in Ashburnham MA had to close due to a flood.   The Library announced: “We will be closed Wednesday 2/2 and Thursday 2/3 while we continue to address damage caused on Monday. The craft program scheduled for tomorrow night has been rescheduled for Wednesday 2/9.”

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