• Templeton 10-21-26 - We are providing two additional infographics below for further information on the meeting. CLICK Image for larger view. Templeton Special Town Meeting – Complete Coverage Listen to the entire meeting of October 21, 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY. (silence during voting periods has been removed) On October 21, 2026,Continue Reading
  • Templeton Special Town Meeting 10-21-26 - 8:00pm 10-21-26: Article 2 passed at the Templeton Town Meeting, which means that $1.2 million in stabilization funds will be used to maintain the positions previously outlined by the Select Board. More detailed coverage on the meeting will be provided tomorrow.Continue Reading
  • Stay Ahead of Parking Bans - Bookmark the official municipal website, subscribe to CodeRED emergency alerts, and save the dedicated (978) 991-1515 hotline number, so you can easily navigate Gardner’s winter season. It’s really that easy…it really is! Essential Ways to Stay Ahead of Winter Parking Bans in the City of Gardner Waking up to aContinue Reading
  • City Council 10-19-26 - Only 7 members of the 11 member Gardner City Council attended the meeting on October 19, 2026. City Council Meets – Sends “Tyros Ordinance” to Second Printing Listen to the Gardner City Council meeting of October 19,2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY. The meeting addressed capital project oversight, municipal appointments,Continue Reading
  • Old Burying Ground Tours - Halloween Morning Tours of the Old Burying Ground on Green Street in Gardner From the Levi Heywood Memorial Library: “Levi Heywood Memorial Library and Gardner Historical Commission Partner for Halloween Morning Walking Tours of the Old Burying Ground 28 Green St. Gardner, MA. Guided tours celebrate Gardner’s founders and RevolutionaryContinue Reading
  • Templeton Advisory - Templeton Advisory Committee Releases Recommendations in Advance of October 21st Special Town Meeting Listen to this debate podcast on the various issues (including use of Stabilization Funds) on any device, CLICK PLAY. Town of Templeton Advisory Committee evaluated eleven warrant articles scheduled for the Fall Special Town Meeting on OctoberContinue Reading
  • The Tyros Ordinance - Gardner Magazine has prepared a complete report and policy analysis on PDF, CLICK HERE. We also have the 3 infographics below. CLICK Image for larger view. The Tyros Ordinance – Complete Report – Analysis and Debate On Monday, October 19,2026 the Gardner City Council will take up the “Tyros Ordinance”.Continue Reading
  • Who Should be Mayor? - Publisher’s Note: Gardner Magazine does not agree with all of the assertions made in the DEBATE, but we present it here because it results from an objective analysis and will help create discussion. Who Should Lead Gardner – An Objective Gardner Magazine Report Gardner Magazine put all the Pros andContinue Reading
  • Weekly News Briefing 10-18-26 - Want even more detail? We have individual comprehensive Weekly News Briefings on North Central MA, Massachusetts, National News and World News. Each has a separate podcast, narrative, and infographics for your perusal. Gardner Magazine News Briefing for the Week of October 18, 2026 It was a busy news week andContinue Reading
  • Hotline Radio 10-17-26 - A Mid-October WGAW Hotline Radio Program Listen to the entire show from October 17, 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY. First up on the show was an uplifting song: Yankee Doodle Dandy. First guest was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Host Steve Wendell asked the Mayor about the upcoming winter: Gardner’sContinue Reading
  • Westminster Town Crier Episode 35 - Westminster Town Crier Episode 35 with Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen Listen to the podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. Episode 35 of the Westminster Town Crier, hosted by Town Administrator Stephanie Latin on October 6 (broadcast October 8). The primary operational focus for the Town of Westminster enters a busyContinue Reading
  • MWCC CCAMPIS - For more information about Mount Wachusett Community College, please visit their website, CLICK HERE. MWCC Childcare Support Gets Boost with CCAMPIS award From Mount Wachusett Community College: “Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) has been awarded $1.188 million over four years through the federal Child Care Access Means Parents in SchoolContinue Reading
  • Festival of Trees 10-16-26 - Printable version of above, CLICK HERE. Festival of Trees Begins November 11th at the Gardner Museum in Gardner MA The Gardner Museum Festival of Trees is November 11, 2026 through December 5, 2026. Museum Hours during the festival: Wednesdays and Thursdays 1 to 4pm, Fridays 1-7pm, Saturdays and Sundays 10amContinue Reading
  • Relay for Life 10-16-26 - Printable version of above, CLICK HERE. Relay for Life – Greater Gardner – to be Huge 1 Day Event in 2027 The Greater Gardner Relay for Life will be a HUGE 1 day event this coming year. Date is Saturday June 12, 2027 from 10am to 10pm. Location is theContinue Reading
  • NOAA – Winter 26-27 - NOAA – Winter Outlook – 2026-2027 Listen to this podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. On October 15, 2026, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its U.S. Winter Outlook for the period spanning December 2026 through February 2027. The primary atmospheric driver for the upcoming season is aContinue Reading
  • Governor Debate 10-15-26 - Last Debate for MA Governor – October 15, 2026 – FULL COVERAGE Listen to the debate on any device, CLICK PLAY. The final Massachusetts gubernatorial debate between incumbent Democratic Governor Maura Healey and Republican challenger Mike Manogue. The debate centered on acute economic pressures facing Massachusetts residents—including high housing, energy,Continue Reading
  • 3 Generations – Weights and Measures - Appointments Committee – a 36 Year Veteran Retires and a 3rd Generation Legacy Begins The Gardner Appointments Committee met on October 14, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. After 36 years in the role of the Sealer of Weights and Measures for the City of Gardner, Stephen Hirons hasContinue Reading
  • Assessors 10-15-26 - Inside the Board of Assessors: Lessons from this 3-Minute Meeting On Thursday, October 15, 2026, at precisely 9:01 AM, Assessor Christine Kumar and Member Paulette Burns convened in an empty room. There were no packed public benches, no grand speeches, and no heated debates. , the Board of Assessors meetingContinue Reading
  • Ashburnham Incident 10-14-26 - Incident in Ashburnham 10-14-26 – FULL REPORT The Ashburnham Police Department issued 2 Press Releases, one from the Department, CLICK HERE, and a thank you from Chief Conrad, CLICK HERE. Ashburnham Police Operation and Suspect Apprehension: On the morning of October 14, 2026, the Ashburnham Police Department, in coordination withContinue Reading
  • School Committee 10-13-26 - Consequential School Committee Meeting Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The October 15, 2026, regular meeting of the Gardner School Committee addressed major municipal governance disputes, capital facility updates, district administrative policy changes, and student achievements. The central governance issue involved a proposed City Council ordinanceContinue Reading
  • Annunciation Fall Bazaar 2026 - Popular Annunciation Parish Fall Bazaar is October 16 to October 18, 2026 in Gardner MA – FULL COVERAGE Listen to this podcast about the event on any device, CLICK PLAY. Crafting the Perfect Fall Tradition: Highlights from the 2026 Annunciation Parish & Holy Family Academy Bazaar Is there anything quiteContinue Reading
  • Beacon Connect Begins - If you need assistance with the app, Beacon Connect support email is support@gobeacon.com or you can call GPS at (978) 632-1000, ext. 4570. Gardner Public Schools Launches “Beacon Connect” on Tuesday, October 13th Parents of Gardner Public School students will be able to stay connected to their child’s Gardner PublicContinue Reading
  • Drug Bust 10-12-26 - Gardner Police Department Announces Columbus Day Drug Bust The following is the Press Release from the Gardner Police Department: “This morning, 10/12/2026, members of Gardner PD and the North Worcester County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 242 Pine St #2 in Gardner. As a result of theContinue Reading
  • Winchendon Fall Festival 2026 - Winchendon Fall Festival 2026 a Big Success – Date Planned for Next Year The Winchendon Fall Festival was held on October 10, 2026 was a huge success. Hundreds of people attended the event which had many vendors. Organizer Nicole Roberts has already posted next year’s date as October 9, 2027.Continue Reading
  • Weekly News Briefing 10-11-26 - Want even more detail? We have individual comprehensive Weekly News Briefings on North Central MA, Massachusetts, National News and World News. Each has a separate podcast, narrative, and infographics for your perusal. Gardner Magazine Weekly News Briefing for the Week of October 11, 2026 Listen to the Weekly News BriefingContinue Reading
  • WGAW Hotline 10-10-26 - WGAW Radio Columbus Day Weekend Hotline Radio Show On the Columbus Day Weekend Hotline Radio Show on WGAW which aired on October 10, 2026, Gardner Mayor Nicholson provided an extensive update, Werner Poegel provided a commentary and report on Columbus Day, and the audience heard the entire Healey-Minogue Debate. ListenContinue Reading
  • City Council November Food Drive - Gardner City Council Organizes Food Drive The Gardner City Council is sponsoring a community food drive scheduled for Saturday, November 14, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. The objective of the drive is to stock the food pantries of the Massachusetts Veterans Outreach Center, Inc. (MVOC) and the Gardner CommunityContinue Reading
  • Hubbardston Fall 2026 Town Meeting - Hubbardston Fall 2026 Special Town Meeting Town of Hubbardston’s Special Fall Town Meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Hubbardston Center School. The warrant addresses eleven primary articles, covering municipal financial adjustments, historic preservation grants, regulatory general bylaws, comprehensive zoning updates to match Massachusetts GeneralContinue Reading
  • FBI 10-7-26 - Enforcement action was a collaborative effort with extensive interagency involvement: Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, DEA, FBI, IRS-CI, and Massachusetts State Police, supported the Massachusetts National Guard, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, and by nine local police departments including Leominster, Fitchburg, Clinton, Worcester, Gardner, Lunenburg, Webster, Holden, and Millbury.Continue Reading
  • Finance Committee 10-9-26 - 2 additional infographics are featured below. Borrowing – Savings – Hiring Freeze – Strategies – Topics of Gardner Finance Committee The Gardner Finance Committee met on October 9, 2026. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Finance Committee convened on October 9, 2026, to address keyContinue Reading
  • Nicholson the Candidate - For more information about Mike Nicholson and the various issues affecting the 2nd Worcester District, visit the candidate’s website, CLICK HERE. Michael Nicholson the Candidate – From Drum Major to Mayor and Beyond Listen to the Chair Man and the Chair Lady speaking about the candidate and reviewing the variousContinue Reading
  • Templeton Fall Town Meeting 2026 - Following a failed override vote in September, Templeton voters will make critical decisions at this Town Meeting which will impact Public Safety and other positions in the town. A printable version of the article graphic is available (CLICK HERE) A printable version of the Citizen Guide is available (CLICK HERE)Continue Reading
  • MA Oil Bill Help - One of the infographics below shows the eligibility table by household size and income. Massachusetts Announces the Middle Income Heating Oil Relief Program Listen to this podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. To address the rising cost of home heating oil, Governor Healey has made additional Massachusetts state funds availableContinue Reading
  • Council on Aging – October - Realities Faced by the Senior Center in Gardner MA Listen to the Council on Aging meeting of 10-5-26 on any device, CLICK PLAY. Facility Repair Costs and Budget Deficits were discussed: Unanticipated, critical repairs to the senior center’s aging elevator—including load retests and a full circuit board replacement—along with anContinue Reading
  • Airport Commission – October - Gardner Airport Commission Addresses Critical Infrastructure Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Airport Commission convened on October 7, 2026, to address critical infrastructure projects, fiscal constraints, operational policies, and lease agreements. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of a major citywide budget shortfall announced byContinue Reading
  • Traffic Commission 9-29-26 - Traffic Commission Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Traffic Commission met on September 29, 2026, to address key municipal traffic control, parking policy revisions, neighborhood safety petitions, and grant-funded infrastructure projects. The primary focus of the meeting centered on resolving communication and enforcement challenges regardingContinue Reading
  • Little Anthony’s Closes - Little Anthony’s Closes – Has message for Customers Little Anthony’s Restaurant has been open in Winchendon for over 3 decades, having been founded by the LaGrassa family in 1993 and later sold in 2024 to retired educator Alexis Curry. Little Anthony’s was noted for its seafood, burgers, and ice cream.Continue Reading
  • Casavant – Geyster Interview - An Interview with Superintendent Dr. Chris Casavant and Business Manager Ann Marie Geyster of the Narragansett Regional School District. Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY. Key operational, financial, and programmatic insights regarding the Narragansett Regional School District (NRSD), derived from an interview conducted by Gardner Magazine PublisherContinue Reading
  • Samuel Nieves Honored - Campus Compact Gives MWCC Student Samuel Nieves Newman Civic Fellow Honor The following is the complete Press Release from Mount Wachusett Community College: Mount Wachusett Community College Student Samuel Nieves Named 2026–2027 Newman Civic Fellow GARDNER, MA – October 5, 2026 – Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) student and BoardContinue Reading
  • Conservation – end September - Conservation Commission – Final Meeting of September 2026 Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Conservation Commission convened on September 28, 2026, addressing critical environmental enforcement actions, public infrastructure concerns, property development filings, and departmental administrative challenges. Here’s what was discussed: There Was Public AlarmContinue Reading
  • West Nile – Gardner - West Nile Detected in Gardner Mosquito – Risk Level Remains LOW The following is a Press Release from the Gardner Health Department on October 6, 2026: The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) has confirmed that West Nile virus (WNV) was detected in a mosquito sample collected in Gardner recently.Continue Reading
  • Board of Health 10-5-26 - Gardner Board of Health Meeting of October 5th Had some Mind-Boggling Surprises Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Mind-Boggling Local Surprises Hidden in the Board of Health Meeting bring High-Stakes Drama: To the uninitiated, a Board of Health meeting sounds like an infallible cure for insomnia—aContinue Reading
  • City Council 10-5-26 - Gardner Magazine has 3 infographics at the end of this article focusing on a summary of the October 5, 2026 Gardner City Council Meeting, a Municipal Action Report, and 5 Takeaways from the Meeting. Gardner City Council Holds First October Meeting of 2026 Listen to the meeting on any device,Continue Reading
  • Winchendon – Music - 5 Unmissable Music Happenings in Winchendon, MA This Week Wondering what to do close to home this week without making the drive to Boston or Worcester? You don’t have to go far to find high-energy entertainment, rich culture, and genuine community connection right here in Winchendon! From October 8 throughContinue Reading
  • Golf Commission 10-5-26 - Good News in Short Meeting of Gardner Golf Commission The Gardner Golf Commission met on October 5, 2026 to review administrative updates, financial standing, and seasonal maintenance operations. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Officials reported a successful autumn membership drive, adding dozens of new sign-ups whileContinue Reading
  • Columbus Day Reports - Columbus Day – The Complete Gardner Magazine Report Columbus Day in Greater Gardner MA is Monday, October 12, 2026. City and town offices will be closed and some are celebrating the day as Indigenous People’s Day. Gardner Magazine has complete coverage including the various controversies on this page, CLICK HEREContinue Reading
  • One Stop Awards - Greater Gardner and North Central MA Communities Benefit from FY27 One Stop for Growth Awards Listen to this podcast explaining it all from the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY. In the City of Gardner:The City of Gardner combines transit-oriented land-use planning with major brownfieldContinue Reading
  • Weekly Briefing 10-4-26 - Want even more detail? We have individual news sections on North Central MA, Massachusetts, National News and World News. Each has a separate podcast, narrative, and infographics for your perusal. Weekly Briefing – Gardner Magazine for October 4, 2026 Listen to the Weekly Briefing on any device, CLICK PLAY. AsContinue Reading
  • WGAW Hotline Radio 10-3-26 - WGAW Hotline Radio – October 3, 2026 Listen to the entire program on any device, CLICK PLAY. Host Steve Wendell spoke about recreational opportunities in the area in light of the good Fall weather including State Parks and reflected on the fact that “snowburgers” going to Florida can still getContinue Reading
  • Code Red Winter 2026 - Parking Bans will be Announced via CodeRed again this Winter in Gardner MA Never Miss an Alert: What You Need to Know About Gardner’s CodeRED System The High Stakes of Staying in the Loop: Imagine waking up on a freezing winter morning to discover your car has been towed fromContinue Reading
  • Economic Development 10-2-26 - 5 Unexpected Lessons from the Frontlines- CLICK on the infographic for a larger view. Gardner Magazine Reader Briefing – CLICK on the infographic for a larger view. View a Comprehensive Project Status Matrix of all key projects in the City of Gardner in the infographic below. CLICK IMAGE for largerContinue Reading
  • Public Service 10-1-26 - DPW is facing critical staffing deficits. Here is why: The DPW is currently down nine positions, representing one-third of its overall workforce. 3 positions frozen 4–5 years ago.4 positions eliminated entering FY27.2 active unfilled vacancies.Impending Retirements: Two veteran employees with over 30 years of dedicated service each are retiring (oneContinue Reading
  • Finance 9-29-26 - Gardner Finance Committee Reviews City Fleet, Financial Policies, and Projects – DETAILED REPORT Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Finance Committee meeting held on September 29, 2026, focused on fiscal stabilization, infrastructure investment, and the implementation of stricter administrative oversight. Key takeaways include aContinue Reading
  • Council President Update 9-26 - From the President’s Desk – September 2026 Update with Gardner City Council President George Tyros Press Release from George Tyros: A+ Collaboration: Strengthening Council & School Committee Oversight – On September 14th, I had the privilege of presenting an amendment to my ordinance to Strengthen Oversight and Transparency of CapitalContinue Reading
  • Phillipston Opts to Use Savings - Phillipston Chooses Savings Withdrawal Instead of Tax Increase Listen to this short podcast on the subject, CLICK PLAY. At a Special Town Meeting on September 30, 2026, Phillipston residents decisively prioritized the use of municipal savings over property tax increases to address a nearly $200,000 funding gap in the NarragansettContinue Reading
  • Templeton PD Advisory - Override Defeat Already Having a Negative Public Safety Effect in Templeton As predicted by this publication and others, the Town of Templeton desperately needs to send a different signal that Templeton is protected from crooks. Commit a crime in Templeton and they’ll catch you. The Templeton PD put out aContinue Reading
  • MA Ballot Questions 2026 - Voters Pay Attention: 5 November Ballot Questions Could Redefine the Commonwealth of MA Listen to this podcast explaining the consequences of YES or NO to all the ballot questions on the November 3, 2026 ballot. CLICK PLAY. The November 3, 2026, Massachusetts State Election features nine binding statewide ballot questionsContinue Reading
  • Templeton 9-28 Vote Results - Templeton Override is narrowly defeated at September 28, 2026 Special Election. YES: 809 NO: 929 46.5% YES, 53.5% In the May 18, 2026 Special Election in which voters had 2 override options, the differences were much greater with a $2 million override option rejected with 416 Yes votes and 1094Continue Reading
  • Home Heating Oil – Now - Home Heating Oil Price is Way Up – Gardner Magazine Reports on the How and Why Experts disagree on the overall cause and eventual solution to the unprecedented high home heating oil prices. Gardner Magazine’s Max and Maxine Rogers debate the issue. CLICK PLAY. The home heating oil market isContinue Reading
  • MWCC Trio Programs - $1.1 Million Dollar Federal Grant to MWCC Supports Student Support Services, Talent Search, and the Educational Opportunity Center From Mount Wachusett Community College: Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) has been awarded more than $1.1 million in annual federal funding to continue three TRIO programs that expand access to education andContinue Reading
  • Brilliant Music Decision - Gardner Magazine research shows that music is the “Academic Multiplier”. The decision to fund music in Gardner Public Schools pays many academic dividends as the rest of this article will demonstrate. Listen to this podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. Years after Brilliant Music Decision, Gardner Mayor Nicholson is AllContinue Reading
  • Weekly Briefing 9-27-26 - Want even more detail? We have individual news sections on North Central MA, Massachusetts, National News and World News. Each has a separate podcast, narrative, and infographics for your perusal. Weekly News Briefing – Gardner Magazine – for September 27, 2026 Listen to the Weekly Briefing on any device, CLICKContinue Reading
  • WGAW Hotline Radio 9-26-26 - First Fall 2026 WGAW Hotline Radio Show Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY. Interview and update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – A discussion abut the Gardner Oktoberfest with the Chair Luge canceled for this year due to weather and safety concerns re wet pavement —Continue Reading
  • Mayor’s September 2026 Update - Infographics below provide additional detail. The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of scheduling, public services, and civic observances. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the City Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY. Key updates, community events, and infrastructure developments for the City of Gardner, as outlined byContinue Reading
  • Oktoberfest Update 2026 - Gardner Oktoberfest 2026 is STILL ON! – Here is the statement we received from Rick Walton regarding events of the day: “The party is still happening, adapted of course for the weather. We will be outside and if we get too much rain we go inside. All contests and musicContinue Reading
  • Mike Ellis Interview 9-25-26 - The September 25, 2026 interview with Gardner Senior Center Director Mike Ellis reveals a “Model Senior Center” which does over 3000 programs every single year. Each of the 5 infographics below can be viewed as a larger image simply by clicking on it. There’s an overview summary of the interview,Continue Reading
  • Netanyahu at U.N. - Too much info, photos etc. for the home page: Gardner Magazine has the September 24, 2026 speech of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu along with 3 separate reports and 4 separate infographics on this complete page, CLICK HERE.Continue Reading
  • Those Great Windows - Window Project Moving Along at Gardner City Hall Photos from September 24, 2026: The windows being installed at Gardner City Hall are showcased here. Only the street-side section still needs to be done. Simultaneously work is being done at the front of Gardner City Hall. When exactly will it beContinue Reading
  • Phillipston Giant Pumpkins - The Phillipston Giant Pumpkin Contest and Fair will take place on October 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Phillipston Common. Phillipston Giant Pumpkin Contest and Fair On the morning of October 11th, the air over the historic Phillipston Town Common will carry the scent of woodsmokeContinue Reading
  • Sunny, then Rain, Rain, Rain - First weekend of Fall in Greater Gardner MA Looks Like a Soaking A sunny Thursday will change rapidly to a rainy Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in the Greater Gardner area. It will feel raw and cold in this first weekend of FALL 2026. Thursday September 24th is characterized by sunnyContinue Reading
  • Westminster MA – October 2026 - Two Articles in One – Westminster South Street Sentinel October 2026 and Town Crier Episode 34 Listen to this DEEP DIVE podcast about the Westminster South Street Sentinel, October 2026. CLICK PLAY. Listen to Episode 34 of the Town Crier podcast with Westminster MA Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen which focusesContinue Reading
  • Storage Unit Arrests - Winchendon Police Arrest Two Individuals on Numerous Charges Relating to Self-Storage Break-ins The Winchendon PD issued this Press Release on September 24, 2026: “On 9/12/2026 between 0023-0145hrs and, again, on 9/14/2026 between 0844-1022hrs., several self-storage units located on the property of Winchendon Self Storage (67 Gardner Rd.) were broken intoContinue Reading
  • The Tree (Tree Man) original song - Gardner Magazine with a Tunes of Progress original song release: The Tree (Tree Man) Listen to this modern jazz tune on any device, CLICK PLAY. This original song was written by Werner Poegel and produced under the Tunes of Progress Band name. Some lyrics from the song: {Verse 1}When theContinue Reading
  • Conservation – Arborists in MA - Wetlands Restoration, Certified Arborists, Land Disturbances, and Training Focus of Mid-September Conservation Meeting. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Conservation Commission meeting of September 14th focused on various local environmental and land-use issues. The board discusses ongoing enforcement orders and repair updates for properties onContinue Reading
  • The Loose Moose - Moose Graces the “Model City for America” On the first day of Fall, September 22, 2026, a wandering moose took a tour of the “Model City for America”, Gardner Massachusetts. The massive moose was spotted on Main Street and walking through a parking lot. Gardner Magazine was unable to obtainContinue Reading
  • Appointments 9-21-26 - High Caliber Candidates Focus of Appointments Committee Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Appointments Committee session of September 21, 2026 featured Mayor Michael Nicholson’s introduction of candidates, followed by personal testimony regarding their professional backgrounds and specific qualifications for their respective departments. Notable appointments includeContinue Reading
  • April Cover – Statement of LOVE - Templeton SelectWoman April Cover tonight released a statement of LOVE to her fellow Templeton residents. Cover’s statement is also in favor of a YES vote on the September 28th override vote. Entire statement on PDF, CLICK HERE. Gardner Magazine has created the graphic below of April Cover’s statement of LOVEContinue Reading
  • Candace Graves 9-22-26 - Templeton at a Fiscal Crossroads – The Candace Graves Interview Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY. In this interview, Selectwoman Candace Graves discusses the severe fiscal crisis facing the town of Templeton, Massachusetts. She advocates for a tax override to address a massive budget shortfall caused byContinue Reading
  • City Council 9-21-26 - At the City Council meeting of September 21st, 9 Councilors participated in person with Councilor Tassone calling in remotely and Councilor Hardern was absent, still recovering from back issues. Gardner City Council meets on the Last Day of Summer 2026 Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY,Continue Reading
  • Trump – U.N. Speech – 9-22-26 - Economic Performance and Domestic Stability The address posits that the United States economy is currently the strongest in its history, characterized by high investment levels and record-breaking stock market performance. Macroeconomic Indicators Chart Below: Metric Reported Status/Value Private Sector Jobs 1 million+ new jobs created since the start of theContinue Reading
  • Bennett – Ryan Interview 9-21-26 - An interview with Templeton Town Administrator James Ryan and Police Chief Michael Bennett Listen to this interview on any device, CLICK PLAY In this interview, Templeton Town Administrator James Ryan and Police Chief Michael Bennett discuss a looming budget deficit and a critical tax override vote scheduled for September 28th.Continue Reading
  • Like a Chicken Talking with a Duck - A Gardner Magazine Comedic Investigation Into Miscommunication – When a Duck and Chicken Talk You’ll hear a comedic parody jingle and a crazy conversation with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady which in the end actually makes sense. CLICK PLAY. What actually happens when a duck has a conversationContinue Reading
  • Gardner – Tax Title - This subject will come up at the Gardner City Council meeting of Monday September 21, 2026. Gardner Magazine is publishing this analysis to once again showcase the strong fiscal focus of the “Model City for America.” In this article we cover the impact on municipal liquidity, land court proceedings andContinue Reading
  • Police Local Endorses Override - Publisher’s Note: Gardner Magazine research has found that in communities which have substantially cut public safety funding the following consequences have occurred: 1. Property values have decreased 10 to 15% which in Templeton is $40,000 to $60,000 on the average home (compared to average annual cost of $439 of YESContinue Reading
  • Weekly Briefing 9-20-26 - Gardner Magazine Weekly Briefing – September 20, 2026 The Gardner Magazine Weekly Briefing combines the news of North Central MA, North Quabbin, the State of Massachusetts, National News, and World News. Listen to this short podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. Want even more detail? We have individual news sectionsContinue Reading
  • Hotline Radio 9-19-26 - WGAW Hotline Radio Extended Edition – Gardner Updates, Construction and Events – Westminster Update Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY. First up on WGAW Hotline Radio: Steve Wendell spoke about chopping down a hickory tree because it was interfering with satellite. FREE wood is available. BringContinue Reading
  • October 15th Chamber Event - Additional infographics on the 2026 Chili and Chowder Taste Off and the Chicken Poo Bingo are below, CLICK Image for larger view. Double Header Chamber Event on October 15th to be One Great Time! On the same night as the Chili Taste-Off which this year boats 8 local favorites –Continue Reading
  • Council on Aging 9-15-26 - Council on Aging Zeroes Out Fiscal Year 2026 But Discusses Budget Issues for Fiscal Year 2027 Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Council on Aging (COA) meeting held on September 15, 2026, focused on the closeout of Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) and the initialContinue Reading
  • City Hall Update 9-18-26 - An Update from Gardner Mayor Nicholson on City Hall Projects and Construction Updates From Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson: ” Beginning on Monday, September 21, 2026, crews will be returning to City Hall to complete the painting work on the front portico of the building. The timeline needed to complete thisContinue Reading
  • Pins for Possibilities - Scheduled Workshops and Events: Pins for Possibilities Event – Great Example of Community Cooperation The Gardner Area League of Artists (GALA) and the Winchendon Community Action Committee (CAC) have partnered to launch “Pins For POSSIBILITIES,” a major community fundraiser and arts engagement initiative scheduled for October 8, 2026. Held atContinue Reading
  • Temporary Tap Water Changes - Gardner MA Temporary Tap Water Changes – COMPLETE COVERAGE Beginning September 21, 2026, the City of Gardner Water Department will implement a temporary change in its water disinfection process, transitioning from chloramines to free chlorine. This shift is a proactive measures designed to address low chloramine residuals caused by nitrificationContinue Reading
  • Brilla 9-17-26 - Downtown Sleuth None Other Than Mayor Michael Nicholson Using his keen eyes of observation, the Mayor noticed the signs and then Mayor Nicholson posted: “Three new signs showed up in Downtown Today! Getting closer to fully welcoming Brilla Coffee Roasters to the Chair City.” Brilla Coffee has been eagerly anticipatedContinue Reading
  • Serious Petersham Accident - Motorcyclist Sustains Serious Injuries in Collision with Bear A 71-year old male Orange MA resident sustained serious injuries in a collision with a 160 pound bear while traveling on Route 122 in Petersham. The man was flown via Life Flight to U-Mass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester. The bear wasContinue Reading
  • CVS Wall - CVS Back open after Facade Collapse The Gardner MA CVS is back open after contractors took needed action. From the Gardner Fire Department: “Yesterday, Group 2 responded to CVS on Main Street for a reported building collapse. Firefighters arrived to find a large portion of the façade that had brokenContinue Reading
  • Ashburnham Street Fair 2026 - Printable copy of above, CLICK HERE. Ashburnham to Hold Street Fair on September 20th Listen to this podcast covering the upcoming Ashburnham Street Fair on September 20th. CLICK PLAY. The Celebrate Ashburnham Street Fair is a premier community event scheduled for Sunday, September 20, 2026. Presented by Cushing Academy andContinue Reading
  • ZBA 9-15-26 - Our infographics below illustrate the issue very thoroughly. Topic of Historic Preservation Dominates Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting The Gardner ZBA met on September 15, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. On September 15, 2026, the Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) convened toContinue Reading
  • Finance 9-15-26 - Our 4 infographics cover 1. The Gardner Finance Committee Meeting 2. Beyond the Balance Sheet, 5 Critical Shifts 3. Journey of a Property from Tax Delinquency to New Beginnings 4. Navigating the Municipal Ledger – a guide to municipal finance based on the subjects covered at the meeting. Finance CommitteeContinue Reading
  • Public Safety – September 2026 - Publisher’s Note: City Council meetings are often dismissed as dry, procedural affairs, but the decisions reached during the Public Safety Committee meeting on September 15th represent a significant “hardware update” for Gardner’s infrastructure. To the casual observer, parking ordinances and speed limit adjustments might seem like minor clerical shifts. However,Continue Reading
  • 21st Annual Gardner Oktoberfest - Printable version of above, CLICK HERE. 21st Annual Gardner Oktoberfest and Chair Luge is Saturday, September 26th Listen to the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss this exciting Gardner event. CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Oktoberfest and Chair Luge, scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, represents a significant community celebrationContinue Reading
  • School Committee 9-14-26 - Gardner MA School Committee Meeting of September 14, 2026: We cover facilities and infrastructure status, academic performance and strategic planning, governance and the city charter, administrative actions, and various updates. View the infographics below for additional details. Gardner School Committee Meets for First time this School Year Listen to theContinue Reading