Local News Gardner MA

Gardner MA Breaking News

• Mobile Home Fire

  

  Gardner Fire Department Battles Mobile Home Fire

  While no injuries were reported, the RV sustained tens of thousands of dollars in damage and is a total loss.

  Gardner Firefighters responded to a fuel fed fire in a motor home across from 164 Manca Drive on December 1, 2024. Group 4 was the on-duty shift.

  The owners and their pet dog were not in the RV at the time of the fire and reportedly obtained temporary housing through the American Red Cross.

  

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• Lighting 2024

  

  Gardner Kicks off Christmas Season with Music, Merriment, and Lights

  Gardner Magazine’s Collage of Photos is due to the picture and video taking efforts of Gardner’s Queen of Fun Patti Bergstrom and Merry Mayor Michael Nicholson who were both on hand with scores of people on Sunday, December, 2024.

  Mayor Nicholson posted, “It’s officially Christmas Time in the City – with the lights all on in Monument Park, Lafayette Square, Downtown, City Hall, and in South Gardner.” Listen to the song “Officially Christmas in Gardner” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Festivities began at 4pm at Gardner City Hall with Music and Caroling. A parade brought event goers to Monument Park where there was more music and Santa Claus recited “The Night Before Christmas”. Triple T Family Farm provided FREE carriage rides to those attending. Gardner High Band and Gardner Middle School Chorus delighted the crowd.

  Mayor Nicholson posted that carriage rides will be back during a horse drawn carriage Christmas Light Tour of the Downtown on December 19th from 4-6pm. Cost: FREE.

  Gardner Magazine has a special “A Chair City Christmas” page with 31 versions of an original tune. CLICK HERE.

  

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• Crisis Intervention

  

  
  CIT also supports police departments in Central Massachusetts in establishing their own CIT teams, comprising trained officers who collaborate with local providers. This week-long program is an innovative training model designed to equip first responders with crisis intervention skills.

  Gardner PD in another Proactive Effort to Assist Individuals with Mental Health and Substance Disorders

  Area police departments including the Gardner PD took part in Open Sky’s Week-long Crisis Intervention Training. Training covered suicide prevention, mental illness, runaway assistance, intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, homelessness and officer self-care

  Gardner PD posted, “The Gardner Police Department extends its gratitude to the CIT staff, Open Sky, and all the guest speakers who shared their experiences and expertise throughout the week. Your contributions were greatly appreciated. (Sorry about the picture, the projector should have been turned off)“

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• Gardner Engine 2

  

  Gardner Fire Department Reveals Engine 2 – Sutphen Heavy Duty Custom Pumper

  There’s nothing like a beautiful new fire truck! This machine has a wheelbase of 180 inches, a travel height of just under 10 feet, and a travel length of more than 30 feet. It has a Heavy-Duty Custom Chassis, a 56 inch extended cab which can hold 4 firefighters and has a 10 inch raised roof. The engine is 450 horsepower. There’s a 1000 gallon water tank and a 30 gallon foam tank. Design sheet is below. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

  

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• Mike Rock Opera

  

  Explanation: Lyrics are original. Music and Vocals generated by very sophisticated AI. Enjoy whatever version is to your liking.

  EDITIORIAL SPECIAL: Gardner Magazine with a “Rock Opera” on Mike the Champion

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has paid his dues and taken some abuse along the way. He’s made a few mistakes, but his willingness to think outside of the box has helped to propel Gardner forward. Nevertheless, he’s endured ridiculous made-up lies from some of Gardner’s Rogue elements via Social Media and otherwise. Being right 99% of the time has made Mayor Mike a champion of Gardner’s success. In 4 1/2 years, the City’s Chief Executive and his Team have spruced up the City via municipal, State, and Federal funding; precipitated revitalization of Downtown Buildings by private investors, taken abandoned City-owned buildings and put them back on the tax rolls, and worked to strengthen Gardner’s fiscal posture, all while welcoming new businesses and residents. The following “Rock Opera” is both a recognition and a thank you for the achievements, and a repudiation of the few naysayers who don’t appreciate the enormity of the turnaround. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Hotline 11-30-24

  

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

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

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

  Hotline Radio is heard every Saturday from noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1FM and on the 24/7 LIVE STREAM.

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• GAAMHA Trees

  

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

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

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

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

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• GFD Ban Lifted

  

  GFD Lifts Outdoor Open Fire Ban, Reminds of GFD Cooking-Camp Fire Policy and Outdoor Brush and Yard Debris Prohibition

  Gardner Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy’s Press Release states “Due to the recent transition to a more normal, seasonal weather pattern, the open fire ban is lifted” Lifting of ban applies ONLY to contained fires for cooking, recreational, ornamental, or camping purposes. Lagoy reminded that the open brush burning season only runs annually from January 15^th through May 1^st, and only by permit even during that time. “All residents are also asked to continue to use caution with any type of open fire. The risk, while now significantly lowered, is never at zero.”

  Complete Press Release of November 29, 2024, CLICK HERE.

  Cooking/Camp Fire Policy, CLICK HERE.

  Not in Gardner? Check with your local community Fire Department for current information.

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• Conservation 11-25-24

  

  Conservation Commission Discusses Gardner Landfill Topics

  DPW Director Dane Arnold came to the meeting and addressed some concerns relating to erosion and contamination.

  DPW took action after receiving a complaint of erosion issues at the landfill. A small amount of sediment was noticed to have been deposited in the Wetland beyond the fence and that the fence has fallen over some. DPW mitigated the issue and put up some new fence. DPW also coordinated with Conservation Agent Justin Enright who did a site visit. Arnold explained DPW’s efforts in detail. DPW visits the site about once a month and after a significant rain event. Dane noted that the storm water system was built in 1984 and thus is not up to current. Conservation Commission Chairman Greg Dumas requested DPW maintenance logs going forward or where Justin can access them.

  Dane Arnold speaks towards the beginning of the meeting. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  A resident had questions for Dane Arnold relating to what else could be done and the Director stated he had some ideas. Dumas suggested maybe they sketch something up with Rob and maybe have Justin do a site visit. An abutting resident had concerns about what is discharging from that site including a dioxane leak, mentioning that dioxane had shown up in testing of nearby wells. The resident is concerned about possible carcinogens. A lengthy discussion ensued and the Conservation Commission will bring up the issue again at the next meeting.

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• Dane Arnold 11-22-24

  

  Gardner DPW Director Dane Arnold gave a complete update to the Public Service Committee. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  DPW Director Dane Arnold Updates City on Paving, Projects, Equipment, and Staffing

  Director Arnold stated “2024 Paving is Done” and spoke about various streets. The spring list is being compiled. Initial planning will include $273,000 which was recently approved by the City Council and whatever Chapter 90 funds come in from the State. The City is applying for grant money to fund the paving of streets which intersect the new Uptown Rotary and need paving.

  Dane Arnold spoke about a rather large need coming up. “We are going to be going up to bid for the leachate pump station, which is located down in the sanitary landfill down off of West Street. That pump station takes flow from the sanitary landfill and the sludge landfill. That has been designed, and we’re ready to go up to bid. I believe it’s vintage 1980 pump station. It’s on the brink, so we’re going to go up to bid. We’re estimating it’s going to be around $800,000. So I’m going to be going to the council to ask for not only the construction costs, but also a company to oversee the construction of the project itself. So they’ll be asking the council that probably within the next month.”

  Other DPW needs include funds to replace aging equipment. Current annual repair costs are high. Director Arnold detailed various pieces of equipment which he has eyed for future replacement when funds are available.

  Staffing Considerations

  Overtime is frozen right now except for emergencies. “So we are filling some vacancies. The union just updated their contract. Both unions, they have signed an understanding and an agreement. We are starting to fill some vacancies. I believe I’m down five employees right now on the city side, which includes two mechanics. We are starting to fill the equipment. However, I’m going to stop filling. I’ll hire a mechanic, but I’m going to stop hiring any additional staff because the contract is going to cost the city quite a bit of money. And I don’t want to have to be facing layoffs at the end of the year. I’ve frozen overtime. So we’re not doing overtime unless there’s an emergency or we have to do certain things. Like we have to go put up wreaths. So it’s easier to do when there’s no traffic. So we do that at night.”

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• The Grants

  

  How Gardner Turned $1 into $266.67 – 75,000 Times

  It was a simple request at the time and eventually $75,000 was spent on a 3^rd party grant writer to supplement in-house efforts. A few were skeptical and then the unthinkable happened. Gardner got back $20 million in grant funds, some 266 times the investment.

  Now the City is ready for Round 2, equipped with up to $100,000 to do it again. Last time the pitch was, just one successful grant will more than cover it. This time the pitch was, look at the results.

  We recently spoke with Gardner Mayor Nicholson about the subject. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City of Gardner has an almost $80 million annual budget. Saving $20 million through grants in an amount which represents about 1/4 of the property tax bill of each Gardner property owner is a significant amount.

  
  Publisher’s Note: A Rogue Social Media Knucklehead actually suggested that the City of Gardner should be investigated for wrongdoing by the U.S. Justice Department for approving the $100,000. We suggest the following: If the knucklehead doesn’t appreciate saving thousands in potential taxes, then he could easily write a check to the City of Gardner in whatever amount of donation to relieve guilt. Otherwise we say, sit back and be thankful you have local officials who are looking out for the taxpayers every single day and managed to save them $20,000,000 with just one good decision. Millions more in grants have been written in-house by elected officials and City employees for both municipal needs and School Department needs. An effort to be congratulated…. We send applause.

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• Golf 11-25-24

  

  Gardner Golf Commission Meets Before Thanksgiving

  The Gardner Golf Commission Met on November 25, 2024. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Discussion revolved around the success of this year and some plans for next season. Current surplus at this time is about $227,000 with approximately 50 new members this year and a roster of just under 800. This year is winding down, but they are starting to work on the Golf Course schedule for next year for golf course events.

  The Golf Course is also in the process of ordering an AED and planning for staff training on the device once the machine comes in. The device “kind of mirrors what the Fire Department has.”

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• Compassionate Call

  

  We also have AUDIO of the entire meeting available here. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Public Service Committee Balances Consistency with Compassion with distraught Property Owner

  The Gardner Public Service Committee has the responsibility of ruling on water and sewer abatement requests. Out- of- town Property Owner Terri owns a 4 unit property on Chelsea Street and got an unexpected large water bill due to usage from a leaking toilet. Bill was $3000 . The members of the committee listened to Terri who attended via a telephone call. Dane Arnold informed the committee that usually the only resolution would be a payment plan. Other councilors informed that the committee had to be consistent. The interaction was difficult and the committee members handled the issue with compassion and came up with a creative solution. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Typical bill has been 550-900. This bill was $3000. Tenant notified landlord and landlord had plumber fix the leak. Normally, no abatement is available because the water was still used. Caller was very emotional, stating that she was having trouble paying the mortgage as some tenants have not been paying her the rent. It was explained to the caller that the City can’t control the tenant piece. However, the committee ended up taking off $500 out of compassion and then allowing the remainder of $2500 to be paid over 12 months at $208 per month, starting in January. Interest was also waived. A case of consistency balanced with care and compassion.

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• Kamuda Art

  

  
  Gardner Artist Opens Gallery to All for Special Event

  Renowned Local Artist and Photographer Carolyn Kamuda is having a 6 hour event at her Kamuda Gallery on Pleasant Street in Gardner on Black Friday November 29th from noon to 6pm.

  Area residents looking for a unique Christmas gift will find small canvas paintings priced from $10 to $50 each and all are on sale that day at 30% off. If you can’t make it Friday, Kamuda is also opening Saturday, November 30th from 10am to 1pm.

  Kamuda is reportedly retired. However, from looking at her picture, Gardner Magazine could find no evidence of aging. When you see Carolyn, ask her what her secret is. For more information, visit her Facebook page, CLICK HERE

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• Greater Gardner 11-25-24

  

  

  
  News Around the Greater Gardner MA area

  Winchendon: 3 finalists for Winchendon Superintendent position include: current interim Superintendent Dr. Marc Gosselin, Dr. Greg Rosenthal of Douglas Public Schools, and Mark McLaughlin of South Hadley Public Schools. Next step: School Committee will make its selection.

  Westminster: Recent Town Meeting Results – Articles 1,2,3,4,,5, and 6 YES Articles 9 and 10 regarding TIF: NO. Article 11: NO and Voters passed over article 12. Previous article with details, CLICK HERE.

  Ashburnham: Equipment options for the new Winchester Park Playground will be previewed at a presentation by consultants M.E. O’Brien and Sons, Inc. on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 6:30pm at Overlook Middle School, 2^nd Floor Team Room, 10 Oakmont Drive, Ashburnham. A question and answer session will follow the presentation. —– Toys for Tots donations will be accepted through December 6^th at the DPW and Town Hall. —- The Select Board will hold a tax classification hearing on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Training Room at the Public Safety Building. The purpose of the hearing is to inform taxpayers and interested persons of the choices open to the Select Board in setting a single tax rate for all real estate and personal property, or two tax rates, one for residential and open space and one for commercial, industrial and personal property. Members of the Board of Assessors will be present to explain the options available in choosing the classification. The public is welcome to attend.

  Templeton: A special town meeting is scheduled for December 6, 2024 at 6pm at the Narragansett Middle School Auditorium. Here is the complete town meeting warrant, CLICK HERE. The Town of Templeton has a construction schedule update, CLICK for DETAILS. The Digital Equity Plan comment period ends on December 6^th. View a pdf of the plan, CLICK HERE.

  Phillipston: The Phillipston Lions have started a soup kitchen. Next Soup Kitchen is Wednesday, December 11^th at the Phillipston Church on the common. For details, CLICK HERE. —- The Ladies Benevolent Society is sponsoring a Holly Berry Fair on December 10, 2024 from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Phillipston Congregational Church. Highlights are: Christmas Vendors, Ladies Benevolent Society Raffle Table, Lion’s Lunch – Soup & Sandwiches Dessert, Cookie Walk Table, Come take a picture with Santa, Pets Welcome! Bring your camera!

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• Holiday Happenings

  

  

  Holiday Happenings abound in the Greater Gardner MA area. Holiday Tree Lighting in Gardner is Sunday December 1st.

  Holiday Happenings in the Greater Gardner MA area

  Thanksgiving Week Events

  Date	Event Details
  Thurs. Nov. 28th	Macy’s Parade – Gardnerites- Em Shouse, Olivia Charette, Alexia Minkin, Ellen Brooks, and Jonathan Hastings – will be with the UMass Minuteman Marching Band at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Parade Details from Macy’s CLICK HERE.
  Thurs. Nov. 28th	51st Annual Turkey Bowl Narragansett Warriors take on the Murdock Blue Devils for the 51st Annual Turkey Bowl at 10am. For those who can’t attend in person here’s the live stream link, CLICK HERE.
  Sat. Nov. 30th	Small Business Saturday Holiday Market is happening November 30th from 10-4pm at the Gardner PACC, “Dozens of local makers and artisans,” More Details…
  Sun. Dec. 1st	Gardner Tree Lighting – Meet at City Hall and Stroll to Monument Park at 4:30pm. Led by GHS Band and GMS Music. And Santa. Refreshments for sale by Holy Family Academy MA and Boys Scouts. Carriage rides and caroling Details from Gardner Square Two, CLICK HERE.
  Sun. Dec. 1st	Pictures with Santa 10am to noon at the GAAMHA Christmas Tree Lot on Route 140, Gardner. Christmas Tree Sales and Meet the Ponies. Register, CLICK HERE.
  Sun. Dec. 1st	Templeton Holiday Tree Lighting at the Templeton Common Park from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 pm Complete details from Town of Templeton, CLICK HERE.

  Following Week:

  Date	Event Details
  Thurs. Dec. 5th	Tree Decorating Party -Westminster Parks and Recreation Department plans to host a tree-decorating party from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Academy Hill Gazebo.
  Fri. Dec. 6th	12th annual Ashburnham Tree Lighting and Santa Parade – 5:30 pm at the Town Hall Common, Santa Parade at 5:45 pm Tree will be lit at 6 pm  Complete details from Town of Ashburnham, CLICK HERE
  Sat. Dec. 7th	Winchendon Festival of Lights and Holiday Fair The annual Holiday Fair features Breakfast with Santa, a Holiday Craft Fair, Hot Cocoa with Santa & Mrs. Claus, crafting activities, letters to Santa, Pictures with Santa, Caroling and a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Grout Park at the Old Murdock Senior Center from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m More from Town of Winchendon, CLICK HERE
  Sun. Dec. 8th	Westminster Tree Lighting starts at 5 pm at the Academy Hill Gazebo. Fire Pit with s’mores and hot cocoa. Westminster Elementary School chorus with caroling at 5:30 pm. Pictures with Santa at 6pm. More in the South Street Sentinel on pdf, CLICK HERE.

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• Pinocchio Paul

  

  Editorial – The Tale of Pinocchio Paul – He knows it’s false, he has actual malice.

  Perhaps you know an individual like this: A man who accuses almost anyone of anything knowing it is false. A man who makes statements with actual malice towards many in the community. A man who has targeted public officials including the Mayor, the City Council, the Police and Fire Departments, and employees of the City. A man who knows he is lying, but does it anyway. A man who targets Non-profits with false statements. A man who states false things about individuals. A man who silences dissent. A man who makes up the foulest stuff just because he thinks he can. REALITY CHECK: If there is such a man, the law will eventually catch up with him. FREE SPEECH doesn’t cover it when you know it is false. FREE SPEECH doesn’t cover it when you have actual malice towards someone. FREE SPEECH assumes purity of thought, not EVIL INTENT. Is there an individual in Gardner like this? I hope not.

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• November Shopping

  

  Upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday Brings Shoppers to Gardner MA Stores

  Hannaford, Price Chopper, Walmart, and Aldi were busy in Gardner this week as households prepared for Thanksgiving.

  Thursday, November 28, 2024 is Thanksgiving. Friday, November 29th is Black Friday. Saturday November 30th is Small Business Saturday.

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• Hotline 11-23-24

  

  News was Flowing out of the Radio on the WGAW Hotline Show just before Thanksgiving

  WGAW Host Steve Wendell had a jam-packed program on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  Mayor Michael Nicholson with an Update, Civil Defense Director Paul Topolski on the continued Fire Danger, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas on Council Rules and other matters, Commentary with Werner Poegel who has a dream about cleaning closets at the White House, Scott Huntoon on the Festival of Trees at the Gardner Museum, and Stephanie Marchetti from the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center on the various programs for veterans.

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• Fire Risk

  

  Despite Brief Rain – Fire Risk Remains in Greater Gardner MA

  Area Fire Departments have been busy in the month of November with various brush fires in Greater Gardner MA area towns. Pictured is a collage of several of those incidents. Recent rain will not prevent dangerous conditions to return in a couple of days of sun and high winds. Outdoor burning of any kind is still banned in the region.

  Gardner Magazine obtained the following statement from Gardner Fire Chief Greg Lagoy, “I concur that the rainfall from this recent storm, while greatly beneficial, will not alleviate the high brush fire risk conditions. The dry conditions will quickly return after a day or two of sun and high winds (which is exactly what the forecast is calling for). We really need several similar rain events to lower the risk level.”

  The Chief continued, “The outdoor fire ban will continue for the foreseeable future. State officials, including State Fire Marshal Jon Davine and Chief State Forest Fire Warden Dave Celino, are meeting daily to monitor conditions, re-evaluate the situation, and give advice to local fire departments. My advice to residents is to continue to be aware of the risks and cautious with their actions. Please continue to report any violations of the outdoor fire ban to your 911 Dispatch center, firefighters will respond and extinguish unauthorized fires and educate the residents.“

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• Update 11-22-24

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson with a Holiday-Themed Update

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• ZBA 11-19-24

  

  ZBA hears both a Special Permit request and a Variance for a single family

  The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals met on November 19, 2024 to hear two matters. Listen to the meeting on any device.

  75 Oak Street: Change a 2 family to a 3 family dwelling – Attorney Christine Tree requested a continuance to the January meeting and discussed various issues with the Board.

  68 Acadia Road: Build a Single family ranch on an existing lot. An engineer representing the property owner spoke about various issues including a concern re lack of clarity from the Conservation Commission. However, Conservation Agent Justin Enright was on hand and suggested the matter could be discussed with Conservation at a December meeting. Matter was continued with the ZBA.

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• Drought 11-21-24

  

  Rain was welcomed in Greater Gardner as the area has suffered from drought. It is unclear whether the current predicted rainy weather will be sufficient to change the Drought designation after the 2nd driest October since the late 1800’s.

  Greater Gardner MA in Severe Drought – Winter May Be More Normal

  The Greater Gardner MA area is considered to be in Severe Drought at this time, along with a total of 49% of Worcester County. 51% of Worcester County is experiencing even worse conditions with a designation of Extreme Drought. Streamflow conditions are Low (Red) or Much Below (Dark red) Yellow indicates Below, Green is Normal, and there’s one near Worcester which is Above.

  This is a time to conserve water and to be extremely careful with anything flammable. Various area fire departments have been responding to fires throughout the region. Drought.gov notes that October 2024 was the 2^nd driest October on record over the past 130 years with 2.68 inches of precipitation less than normal. However, because of much higher precipitation earlier in the year, 2024 is so far the 44^th wettest year to date over the past 130 years. (January to October 2024 had 3.09 inches of precipitation more than normal) It has been a year of extremes.

  Winter Weather Outlook

  NOAA – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting above normal temperatures in December through January 2024 for Massachusetts. Precipitation is expected to return to normal at some point according to the NOAA map. For more info, visit NOAA, CLICK HERE.

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• Odyssey – First Responders

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases – Odyssey of First Responders

  The Odyssey of First Responders is a song running 26 minutes and 21 seconds as a thank you and salute to first responders. The Odyssey incorporates various musical genres including the Blues for the Men and Women in Blue, Jazz for Firefighters with Pizzazz, Rock for the EMT’s who Rock, Country for DPW – Public Works, K-Pop for Lifeguards, and Patriotic for the Military. Complete page including individual songs and album covers.

  Original Lyrics of the song were written by Werner Poegel. Music and Vocals were rendered by very sophisticated AI.

  Download for your friends. Send across the country to salute First Responders anywhere. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Thank you First Responders. You mean everything to us. May God keep you all safe and thank you all for your service.

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• City Council 11-18-24

  

  Gardner City Council Meets in Both Informal and Formal Sessions on November 18, 2024

  Informal Meeting: Regarding Administrative Legislation and Rules of the City Council . Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Formal Meeting: Regarding Various Matters. Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City Council approved a request from Mayor Nicholson for a $100,000 appropriation from FREE CASH for 3rd party grant writing. More than $20 million has been awarded with an expenditure of about $75,000.

  The item regarding $45,000 for a recount was taken off the agenda as paperwork was not submitted by candidate Bruce Chester. Councilor Hardern stated, “I’m relieved the taxpayers will not have to shoulder this cost. ..I can understand the frustration that comes from campaigning and running for office for 5 years and not winning. However, it’s on all of us who run for office to be responsible with recounts, especially given the cost to the public. Part of what comes from running for office is being prepared to accept how the people vote.”

  Councilor Tyros stated, “You know, this election was not determined by a handful of votes but by hundreds of votes and I was very disappointed to see some of the commentary in our community about, you know, there being questions around the integrity of this election.” Councilor Tyros later spoke about the cost to the taxpayers when the 13 Open Meeting Law complaints were filed by Paul DeMeo and not one of the complainants followed up with the AG’s office.

  Cost of parking at meters in Gardner will be 50 cents per half hour. According to Mayor Nicholson, enforcement begins in January 2025.

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• Nicholson Interview 11-20-24

  

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead

  A Discussion with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead in Gardner. We discuss various topics including the recent recount issue, various City projects, and the Road Ahead with all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Re the potential recount: Even though Bruce Chester requested an incorrect form, City Clerk Titi Siriphan reached out to the State and then to Bruce Chester to make sure he got the correct form. Clerk’s office was staffed until 5:15pm on day of deadline to give Chester every chance. However, he did not turn in the forms. Interview contains complete explanation from the Mayor.

  Re Paul DeMeo: Interview addresses some of the nonsense perpetrated against the City and some very good people.

  Project Updates: We go over many of the projects as to status, speak about grants, and talk about possible uses for the roughly unspent $8million from the new Elementary School loan and the inherent restrictions. Note that Director Trevor Beauregard is leaving the City in December.

  The Road Ahead – And literally at the end of the interview, Mayor Nicholson was on the road to meet with an investor interested in Gardner. Gardner Magazine will update you if there’s more good news to share down the road.

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• The Clerk

  

  City Clerk staff actually waited until 5:15pm on deadline day to give Bruce Chester every possible opportunity.

  City Clerk Titi Siriphan Unjustly Attacked – Actual Email Shows Effort to Be Fair

  Candidate Bruce Chester came in to the City Clerk’s office for recount forms and was given the usual District-wide forms customarily used when vote tallies are within ½ of one percent. As it turns out in this case, a different form needed to be used which was later made available to Chester. City Clerk’s office was staffed until 5:15pm on date of deadline. Documents were even left at police station with access 24 hours per day. Chester did not submit by deadline, so no recount is taking place. Cost would have been $45,000 to the City due to statutory requirements of how ballots must be handled in a recount.

  So what happened? Paul DeMeo unleashed a nasty attack in an email. SEE IMAGE. Bruce Chester disavowed DeMeo in an email. SEE IMAGE. And of course, here’s the email in which it is very clear Clerk Siriphan made the correct forms easily available to Candidate Chester. SEE IMAGE.

  Note: Bruce Chester is still on Social Media even today complaining about Gardner Magazine’s reporting prior to the election. We stand by our articles as they accurately reflected actual AUDIO of what Chester said and accurately showed actual State documents re various campaign issues.

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• Coleman Legal

  

  Graphic shows screenshot of Go Fund Me which was launched by Olivia Coleman.

  Gardner Facebook Admin Starts Go Fund Me for Alleged Victims of DeMeo and Others

  A Gardner Facebook Admin has launched a go fund me releasing the following statement “A number of people have suggested a gofundme for legal fees, including Jeff Hermanson! So here it is: A fundraiser for a retainer to pursue legal action for individuals who have been the victims of slander, libel and/or defamation by Kimberly Blake, Paul DeMeo and/or Bruce Chester” The Go Fund Me was launched just after 3pm on November 20, 2024. At the time of this article, 5 dollars out of a goal of $15,000 had been raised. CLICK HERE

  Gardner Magazine reached out to Olivia Coleman for further comment and she stated, “It’s open to anyone that has been a victim of their that would like to purse legal action. If someone has been a victim, they can reach out to me and I’ll start a running list. Depending on how many there are, we may look into in a group suit rather than individual…Funds will paid directly to the atty that is selected to handle the case(s).”

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• Parking 50 cents

  

  Cost of Metered Parking to Double in Downtown Gardner

  The parking meters are being installed one at a time and enforcement won’t begin until early 2025. Cost has been 25 cents per half hour for 20 years, but will go up to 50 cents per half hour if the Gardner City Council votes to approve the recommendation of the Public Safety Committee. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Plan is to have both cash and app options to pay for parking. Note that Downtown Gardner does have a number of FREE parking locations available such as in back of City Hall and right across from the Gardner Ale House. The Rear Main Street Project will also add parking and the Mayor is proposing a parking garage at the site of the West Street Parking Lot.

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• Westminster Meeting

  

  

  Special Town Meeting Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Westminster Elementary School at 9 Academy Hill Road, Westminster

  Westminster: Special Town Meeting November 19th

  Registered Voters in the town of Westminster will be attending a Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Westminster Elementary School.

  Town Meeting Warrant pdf, CLICK HERE.

  The first 6 articles are money articles. Article 7 would dissolve the Holmes Park Water District and place the water service under the jurisdiction of the town of Westminster – MA legislature would still to to also approve. Article 8 concerns notification to the town of a change in volume or character of pollutants to be discharged into the sewer system. Article 9 concerns whether the Town will approve Tax Increment Financing in an agreement between Westminster and Home Depot. TIF provides for real estate exemptions. Article 10 concerns TIF Financing between Westminster and Global Packaging. Article 11 asks the town to seek an additional liquor license allocation for Vincent’s Country Store at 109 Main Street – Legislature would need to approve. Article 12 is a Citizen’s Petition would would restrict the total of full liquor licenses in Westminster to 2 (two) until the population of the town exceeds 10,000 per the most recent Federal census. Current population is about 8400. Next Federal Census is in 2030. Growth was 12.3% from 2010 to 2020 but has since slowed to an annual rate of 2.3%.

  Information sheet on T.I.F. (Tax Incremental Financing)

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• Hotline 11-16-24

  

  News from Hotline Radio November 16, 2024

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas gave updates. The Veterans Ceremony was aired in two parts. Listen to the complete program on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  At the beginning of the show, Mayor Nicholson describes his notification from the City Clerk that Bruce Chester was planning to submit papers for a recount, thus prompting him to request $45,000 to cover the cost from the City Council – however, according to the Mayor, Chester did not submit any papers by the 5pm deadline and thus a recount will not be held. Council President Kazinskas spoke of items on the agenda. The other part of the program featured the recent Veterans Day Ceremony.

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• Fill-A-Cruiser

  

  Gardner Police Department to Hold Food Drive Supporting Gardner CAC and Gardner Senior Center

  The Gardner Police Department has announced that it is launching a new event: The First Annual Fill-A-Cruiser Food Drive. Event will be held in front of the Gardner PD on Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 9am to 1pm.

  The Gardner PD wrote: “We are excited to announce that we will be hosting our first annual Fill-A-Cruiser food drive event this year in support of the Gardner CAC and Gardner Senior Center! Help us kick off the holiday season by filling a cruiser with non-perishable food items, hygiene products and necessities for members in our community. Join us in front of the Gardner Police Department at 200 Main St. on Saturday, November 23 from 9:00AM-1:00PM. We are appreciative of the continued support from our community and look forward to seeing you there!

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• Fire Towers

  

  Fire Danger Very Serious in Greater Gardner MA

  The Gardner Fire Department posted a very serious message on November 16, 2024: “Sadly, we are still continuing to respond to people illegally burning in their yards on a daily bases. We thank all the citizens who have called these fires in to us. For people who disregard our warnings, please know that ALL Massachusetts State Fire Towers are up and running daily, and on high alert. Our closest fire tower is on top of Wachusett Mountain and has a clear birds eye view of Gardner, and quickly can spot the smallest amount of smoke. They then immediately call us, give us the location and we respond. We might not see you burning, but the Massachusetts Fire Towers will. Please, do not do any outside burning until this dangerous drought is over, that includes cooking, camp, and ornamental fires.“

  Here is a message from MEMA Director Dawn Brantley regarding the wild fire situation in Massachusetts and the alarming increase in fires. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Recount 2024

  UPDATE 11-16-24: Bruce Chester did not turn in papers by 5pm deadline yesterday. Therefore according to Mayor Michael Nicholson who appeared on WGAW’s Hotline Radio on Saturday November 16th, there will be no recount. Again, papers not turned in. There will be no recount.

  

  Note: According to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, even if a District-wide was requested, the City of Gardner would still have to bear the total local cost. Facebook posts stating otherwise are not correct.

  Recount of Zlotnik-Chester Race in Gardner to cost Taxpayers $45,000

  The Gardner City Council Meeting Agenda and packet for Monday November 18, 2024 was amended to include a request from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson for $45,000 from FREE CASH to cover the costs of a hand recount of all 5 Gardner precincts. Recount is taking place at the request of candidate Bruce Chester who lost the race for State Representative for the 2^nd Worcester District to Jonathan Zlotnik who has held the office for over a decade.

  Mayor Michael Nicholson wrote, “The City has been made aware that Mr. Bruce Chester, who was a candidate for Representative to the General Court for the 2^nd Worcester District in the November 5, 2024 election will be turning in petitions for a recount of the election for each Ward in the City.” Elections Division advised all costs to be born by the City. Mayor’s appropriation request covers the cost of having to recall all of the poll workers to do a hand recount of the ballots cast. View entire agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  Original Unofficial Results from all Gardner Precincts

  

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• Finance 11-14-24

  

  Finance Committee has Honor of Hearing from Assistant Director Evan Cudmore

  All were impressed as Assistant Director of Community Development and Planning Evan Cudmore updated the Gardner MA Finance Committee on various projects and grants. Mayor Nicholson also added some information, but Cudmore was thorough. Cudmore has been with the City about 8 months, but this is his first meeting appearance. See a complete list of Project Updates below. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The Gardner Tax Rate has been certified at $14.36. Auditor John Richard spoke and praised the Assessor. Gardner was the 39th community in the entire State of MA to set its tax rate. Mayor Nicholson spoke about how this will help in planning.

  The Finance Committee is sending some FREE CASH recommendations to the entire City Council include monies to the Stabilization Fund, 10% to roads, 100k towards a 3rd party grant writer, and 95k for IT software and cloud backup. Nicholson said he would wait until about April to utilize additional FREE CASH to be cautious. This is a strategy the City of Gardner usually uses because until Winter is over, for example, the total cost of snow removal is unknown.

  Updates Provided to the Finance Committee by Evan Cudmore on 11-14-24

  Rear Main Street Phase 2 North: The $3.64 million project is under construction right now Rear Main Street Phase 2 South: The $3.5 million housing works grant was recently awarded to the City. Bike trail, nature trail construction is continuing. The layout of the trail and the sub-base material is complete. The crossings are installed, and the contractor is working on finalizing the agreements with New England Power. The pathway should be complete this year, and landscaping is to be complete in the spring. Maki Park ADA Compliance Solutions: The Building Commissioner is reviewing 2 options for ADA compliance submitted by the City’s engineering firm. One option is $30,000, the other is $50,000. Funding may come from some CDBG projects which came in under budget. Potential New Industrial Park: City’s Engineering firm of Hudson O’Neill is currently developing concept plans for a potential build-out of proposed site based on wetlands and topographic data. Once complete, market analysis will be developed, and the location of land is south of Route 140 from Route 101 to Mathew Street. City would have to purchase the land. Currently Gardner has the Gardner Industrial Park, the North Gardner Industrial Park, and the Suffolk Industrial Park. This would be adding a 4th one. 16 Lot Subdivision being considered by Planning Board. See separate article. Public hearing is continued to the next meeting on December 10th. Greenwood Indoor Pool Building Demolition: Contractor has completed the site survey. The lake delineation testing and the hazardous materials testing is complete. Contractor is working on finishing the sketches for the plan and hopes to have that done by the end of the year. And then given the swim season in mind, demolition will be done probably late winter, early spring at most. 205-213 Main Street (Old Rome Building) Demolition across from Police Station: Bids were opened on November 13th. Awaiting Awarding of bid. Target time for demolition is mid to late December. Later, grant funding would be sought to improve the intersection itself. Listen to the meeting for even more information.

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• Public Welfare 11-14-24

  

  Committee Hears Reports from Library, Golf Course, and Cable TV

  The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on November 14, 2024 and heard updates from directors of the following areas: Library, Golf, and Cable. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Outgoing Library Director Stephanie Young spoke for more than 20 minutes regarding the various programs and matters involving the library, noting that participants in programs has increased from hundreds to the thousands in the past year. —- The Golf Course has increased to almost 800 members this year and the finances look good. — Tim Josti of GETV spoke about the various programs being recorded for the City and some upgrades he would like to make both in services and personnel hours. All 3 updates were very positive and deserve a listen.

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• Planning Board 11-14-24

  

  Gardner Planning Board Reviews Proposed new Compass Lane subdivision on Templeton Line

  The Board Viewed plans and heard a presentation from Mr. Fletcher from PrivateOversight, LLC. 16 Duplexes are now proposed for a total of 32 units on a 900 foot cul-de-sac roadway and a new traffic plan was presented to correspond with the number of units. 6.6 acres would be developed and 10.1 acres being left undeveloped.

  Phase 1 consists of temporary sediment basins. Then roadway construction can begin. Permanent basins can then be constructed. And Phase 3 will consist of constructing the various units, 1 at a time. However, following the presentation, a public hearing was held. There were some questions and concerns from the public in attendance. An interesting fact was brought out by one of the Templeton residents who asked questions and the PrivateOversight, LLC representative also confirmed that Templeton had not yet been approached even though the entrance to the project would be through Templeton. Mr. Fletcher advised that the plan was to contact Templeton once the Gardner side of the project was further along. View the complete agenda, CLICK HERE.

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

  Based on concerns, the Gardner Planning Board ordered a 3^rd party site plan review of items such as traffic and storm water. The public hearing was continued to the next meeting.

  This meeting is a great example of showing the complexities involved in this endeavor as many of the plans are shown. For those wishing to see more plan specifics, we recommend viewing the video from youtube, CLICK HERE.

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• School Committee 11-12-24

  

  School Committee Meets – Achievements Recognized

  The Gardner MA School Committee met on November 12, 2024. At the beginning of the meeting, Superintendent Pellegrino recognized Retired Principal Cherie McComb (spelling corrected) and other retired teachers who have supported a program of education for immigrants. McComb spoke about the program and how people are learning English and getting assistance to obtain Driver’s licenses and employment. Doctor Catherine Goguen gave an MCAS update, details achievements and what work is ongoing to better student performance. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Complete Meeting Packet and Agenda, CLICK HERE.

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• The Closet

  

  The Closet – A Work of Fiction Featuring Kamala, Don, Joe, and Werner.

  Just a little bit of fun in a commentary for WGAW. While they might sound like the real thing, the characters are fictional. Launch on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Packing boxes. What could go wrong?

  WGAW Hotline Radio referenced in this skit airs every Saturday from noon to 2pm on WGAW. On AM 1340, 98.1FM, and streaming worldwide. Listen for great interviews with host Steve Wendell.

  There are 13 Episodes of Joe and Don Fictional Theater, CLICK HERE for the page.

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• Festival Trees 2024

  

  Gardner MA Museum Festival of Trees Set to Begin

  Gardner Museum 2024 Festival of Trees runs from November 13^th through December 7^th.

  Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays 1pm to 4pm, Fridays 1pm to 7pm, Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 4pm. The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner. Due to the Uptown Rotary Project, the parking spaces in front of the building are more visible . There is also a small parking lot to the rear of the building with a handicapped entrance.

  The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for the Gardner Museum. Win a fabulous tree by purchasing raffle tickets. Drawing starts December 7^th at 3pm.  The cost for 1 sheet of tickets is $5 which includes admission (you can buy more tickets if desired). If you decide to just look at the displays, the museum’s regular admission of $3 applies.

  In addition to the regular raffle tickets to win one of the displayed trees & other items, there is a special raffle for a beautiful, circa 100-year-old wooden journeyman’s chest (3 tickets for $10). Aside from looking at the Christmas Wonderland, the museum’s fall – winter photography is still on display in the first floor’s glass cases. Tickets for the special raffle for one of Jeff Sargent’s amazing framed photographs are 10$ for 2 tickets or $12 for 3 tickets. The drawing will be on December 12, 2024.

  Photo Gallery from 2023, click here.

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