commentary by Werner Poegel
  • Child in Car (8/19/2025)

  • Commentary – Downtown Gardner (8/16/2025)
    Commentary: Downtown Gardner – A Place to Enjoy

  • Commentary – Gardner Oktoberfest (8/16/2025)
    REPORT: Gardner Oktoberfest

  • Lab of Lies (8/15/2025)
    Lab of Lies

  • Commentary – 25 Years (8/9/2025)
    25 and 80 Years Commentary 8-9-25

  • Commentary – MA State Parks (8/2/2025)
    State Parks Commentary 8-2-25

  • Fiscal 6 Findings (7/27/2025)
    Fiscal 6 Project Commentary high saturation
    Fiscal 6 Project logo
    Commentary – Fiscal 6 Project
    Banner 1 1380
    Banner 2 1380

  • Commentary USPS 78 Cents (7/19/2025)
    USPS Commentary 78 Cents

  • Flake and Dr. Mayo (7/12/2025)
    Lady Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo 1380
    Commentary and Play 7-12-25
    RADIO PLAY – The Story of the Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo


  • Commentary – Petty Gripes (6/28/2025)
    Commentary 6-28-25

  • Firefighters – Razzmatazz (6/20/2025)
    Firefighters with PIzzazz 1380
    EXPERIMENTAL POP – Firefighters with Pizzazz
    POP MALE with CHORUS – Firefighters with Pizzazz
    POP MALE – Firefighters with PIzzazz
    POP ORCHESTRAL – Firefighters with Pizzazz
    Firefighters Commentary – Werner Poegel for 6-21-25

  • Gardner Educators (6/9/2025)
    Gardner Educators 1380

    Commentary 6-14-25
    POP – Gardner Educators

  • Editorial $2.24 (6/9/2025)
    Open checkbook with title 1380

  • Commentary – Summer Concerts (6/7/2025)
    Commentary – Concerts – 6-7-25

  • Commentary – Budget (5/24/2025)
    Budget Commentary 5-24-25

  • Gardner Kindness (5/14/2025)
    Gardner City of Everyday Kindness
    POP – Gardner City of Everyday Kindness

    Commentary – City of Kindness 5-17-25
    DEEP DIVE – Cities of Kindness Report
    POP – Gardner City of Everyday Kindness

  • Commentary – Happened in Gardner (5/10/2025)
    Commentary – Happened in Gardner 5-10-25


  • Editorial – Blake (5/4/2025)
    Dirty Tricks Editorial and Song
    Interest Chart Blake


    POP – Dirty Tricks
    FUNK – Dirty Tricks
    COUNTRY – Dirty Tricks
  • Winchendon 4-22-25 (4/22/2025)
    Common Sense on the Override
    COMMENTARY: Common Sense Override
    Winchendon Override Song

  • Commentary – Drought (4/19/2025)
    Commentary – Drought 4-19-25

  • Commentary – When It’s Free (4/12/2025)
    Commentary – When It’s Free 4-12-25

  • Commentary – Siberian Wendell (4/12/2025)
    Commentary – Siberian Wendell


  • MART Riders (4/12/2025)
    Bus Collage

  • Commentary – (4/5/2025)
    Commentary – The Calendar 4-5-25

  • Commentary – Government Information (3/29/2025)
    Commentary- Government Information 3-29-25

  • Commentary (3/22/2025)
    Commentary – People and Pets 3-22-25

  • Election Apology (3/19/2025)
    Album Cover Election Apology Song
    Election Apology Song

  • Commentary – (3/15/2025)
    Commentary – Immigration Policies for 3-15-25

  • Threshold of 3 (3/3/2025)
    The Threshold of 3 1380
    Commentary 3-2-25

  • Commentary (3/1/2025)
    Who Listens to WGAW – Commentary 3-1-25

  • Commentary – Volunteers (2/22/2025)
    Commentary – Volunteers 2-22-25

  • Throne of Shame (2/18/2025)
    Throne of Shame
    NOVELTY SONG – Throne of Shame

  • Commentary – (2/15/2025)
    Commentary: Presidents 2-15-25

  • 18 HR. Commentary (2/8/2025)
    18 Hour Trade War
    18 Hour Trade War Commentary
    18 Hour Trade War song

  • Commentary – Nothing Like a Book (2/1/2025)
    Commentary – Nothing Like a Book 2-1-25

  • Commentary – Comedy One Liners (2/1/2025)
    Comedy One-Liners 2-1-25

  • Groundhog Day (2/1/2025)
    Groundhog Day Special Report
    Groundhog Day – song
    Groundhog Day – SPECIAL REPORT

  • Bring Critical (1/29/2025)
    Gardner Magazine Editorial Collage


  • Commentary – (1/25/2025)

    Commentary – Alternatives to Cable

    Commentary – Alternatives to Cable – 1-25-25

  • Commentary – State of the City (1/18/2025)
    Commentary – State of the City 1-15-25

  • Commentary – A Time for Faith (1/4/2025)
    Commentary – A Time for Faith 1-4-25

  • City of Grace (12/23/2024)
    Gardner City of Grace 1380

  • Homeless Commentary (12/19/2024)
    Homeless Resources 1380 green
    Homeless Resources 12-19-24

  • Commentary – Dump the Grump (12/14/2024)
    Commentary – Dump the Grump 12-11-24
  • Commentary – Pearl Harbor (12/7/2024)
    Pearl Harbor Commentary – 12-7-24

  • Commentary – Thanks for the Presidents (11/30/2024)
    Commentary – Thanks for the Presidents 11-30-24

  • The Grants (11/26/2024)
    75k vs 20 million investment
    Nicholson on Grants

  • Pinocchio Paul (11/24/2024)
    Pinocchio Paul The Lying SOB
    Pinocchio Paul is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER which bears no resemblance to any person, living or dead.

  • The Closet (11/13/2024)
    Fiction Kamala Don Joe In the Closet
    In the Closet – Kamala, Don, and Joe

  • Commentary – AI Music (11/9/2024)
    Commentary – AI Music 11-9-24

  • Election Editorial (11/7/2024)
    Election Editorial Collage
    recount percentage

  • Commentary – Bruce Chester (10/26/2024)
    Commentary – Bruce Chester 10-26-24

  • Fake Social (10/21/2024)
    Fake News Social Media An Editorial

  • Commentary – Voting (10/19/2024)
    Commentary – Voting – 10-19-24

  • Commentary – Without a Teleprompter (10/19/2024)
    Commentary – Without a Teleprompter 10-19-24

  • Waterford Fact (10/16/2024)
    Scott Graves at Council Chamber in July 2024

  • No Teleprompter (10/12/2024)
    No Teleprompter Commentary with Werner Poegel

  • Heywood 2107 (10/2/2024)
    Heywood Hospital Future Rendering

  • GAAMHA 9-27-24 (9/27/2024)
    gaamha college 9 27 24
    Gaamha Commentary 9-27-24

  • Compliments (9/19/2024)
    Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Rachael Roberts Katherine Jablonski
    Rachael Roberts – Michael Nicholson – Katherine Jablonski
    Commentary 9-19-24

  • Commentary – Morning News (9/14/2024)
    Commentary – the Morning News 9-14-24

  • Commentary – Taxes (9/7/2024)
    Commentary — Taxes 9-7-24

  • Social Ridiculous (9/5/2024)
    Journey to Ridiculous Social Media Undercover

  • Commentary 8-30-24 (8/30/2024)
    Commentary Fentanyl and Drug Overdoses Werner Poegel
    Commentary 8-30-24

  • Commentary – Hold Your Nose (8/24/2024)
    Commentary – Hold Your Nose 8-24-24

  • Commentary – Puddle of Nonsense (8/17/2024)
    Commentary – Puddle of Nonsense – National Policies – 8-17-24

  • Magazine Milestone (8/12/2024)
    WebTech Online Neon

  • Commentary – Gardner’s Welcome Mat (8/10/2024)
    Commentary – Gardner’s Welcome Mat 8-9-24


  • Commentary – Complaint Xeroxing (8/3/2024)
    Commentary – Complaint Xeroxing 8-3-25

  • Path from Here (8/3/2024)
    Commentary Path from Here with Werner Poegel
    Editorial with Walter C. 8-3-24

  • Route 140 Survivor (7/28/2024)
    Traffic on Route 140 July 26 2024

  • Commentary – 5 Years (7/27/2024)
    Commentary – 5 Years 7-27-24

  • 5 Years (7/26/2024)
    Commentary the 5th Year

  • Commentary 7-21-24 (7/21/2024)
    Horse Racetrack Commentary 7 21 24
    Racetrack Commentary – Making Sense of It

  • Commentary 7-12-24 (7/12/2024)
    Commentary Common Sense on the Racetrack
    Commentary: Common Sense on the Racetrack 7-12-24

  • Fake Social Meda (6/5/2024)
    opinion-600
    Werner Poegel 6-5-24

  • Commentary – Excellence (5/24/2024)
    Commentary Excellence in Gardner
    Commentary on Excellence 5-24-24

  • Blake 5-17-2 (5/17/2024)
    Kimberly Blake
    Editorial re Blake 5-17-24

  • Crazy Social Media (5/11/2024)
    WGAW Hotline Radio 5 11 24
    Steve Wendell 5-11-24

  • Facebook Commentary (5/2/2024)
    Commentary on Problem Facebook Posts
    Commentary – Werner Poegel 5-2-24

  • Editorial – Facebook (4/28/2024)
    Fake News Victim

  • Scales of Justice (4/12/2024)
    Scales of Justice Werner Poegel Commentary
    Scales of Justice – Werner Poegel

  • Happy Puppy (3/23/2024)
    National Puppy Day March 23 2024

  • The Twenty (3/21/2024)
    Fake Bill

  • Freebies 2024 (3/20/2024)
    Freebie King or Queen 2024
    Commentary FREEBIE “King” or “Queen” 2024

  • Common Sense (3/6/2024)
    Commentary Energy Border Cyber Security 1200
    Commentary – Common Sense – Werner Poegel

  • Fictional Theater 2 (3/1/2024)
    Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater Episode 2 The Confessional

  • Magazine Tour (2/29/2024)
    Gardner Magazine AUDIO Tour
    Audio Tour – Voice of Mel

  • 1000 Videos (2/21/2024)
    City of Transparency Gardner MA 1200 rev wider res

  • Interesting Rules (2/14/2024)
    Interesting Rules in Gardner
    Colonel Thomas Gardner 1200
    Crystal 11
    You Can’t be in a City Park from Sunset until 8am without permission from Director of Public Works.
    Interesting Rules in Gardner – 2-14-24
  • Good Things (2/10/2024)
    So Many Good Things The City of Gardner MA without text


  • Insta Minutes (2/5/2024)
    Editorial Insta Minutes False Allegations

  • January 20th (1/20/2024)
    January 20 2024 Collage
    January 20th – a Day of Many Days

  • Pennington Search (1/6/2024)
    Aaron Pennington Photo 10 11 23 enhanced

  • Homeless Help (12/24/2023)
    Homeless Merry Christmas

  • Share City (12/19/2023)
    Share City

  • Mashed Potato (11/8/2023)
    Story of Pauly Potato

  • Birthday Mike (9/24/2023)
    Birthday cake for Mike

    The Mayor of Gardner Massachusetts, Michael Nicholson is 29 on September 24, 2023. He has helped the City of Gardner become well-known across Massachusetts and the nation. Gardner has become a Model City for America.

    Editorial – Happy Birthday from Gardner MA to Mayor Mike

    To the Mayor of Twenty-Nine
    Who’s helped his City Shine.
    Known in the State and D.C. too.
    This was because of you.
    3 Years a Perfect Federal Audit
    Citizens say thanks and applaud it.
    A cheapo you are with taxpayer money
    At finding grants like a fertile bunny.
    You attacked the blight with a surgical sword
    A more beautiful Downtown just one reward.
    You welcomed companies wanting to invest.
    Now the City of Gardner is truly blessed.
    To people under served you gave attention
    From Schools to Violence to Drug prevention.
    You prepared Gardner for future development
    Upgrading technology and daily management
    Using the hands of multi-project juggler
    Music to completion as an expert bugler
    From one side of the City to the other
    Each person treated like sister or brother.
    Happy Birthday to the Mayor who gets things done.
    Some projects, some measures are not yet won.
    So to all who will see this posted right here.
    Best gift to Mayor Mike is a vote this year.

  • Explaining Confusion (9/8/2023)
    Route 140 Zoning and Water Protection Area
    Route 140 zoom in
    Route 140 is the black line – parcels were not shown on City map as protected.

    Editorial – Clarity Needed for Future

    With the recent debate over Route 140 Zoning on 2 parcels, there is some ambiguity left as to other parcels. We suggest a careful inspection of every parcel as to “Open Space” protection . For example, we just pulled up this map from the City of Gardner database. The purple line is around the water protection area. You’ll notice some areas not within the line are claimed to be protected. That may very well be why the original proposal was made with the honest belief the land could be used as commercial even though others thought differently. Solution now is update official records accurately after researching data. Review all parcels in City as to intended use and document for benefit of future generations.

    The Mayor is right. Councilor Dana Heath and other Councilors are right. Gardner needs more business to help lower taxes for its residents. It needs to make the best use of its existing buildings. The current Mayor has helped to bring in business and get blighted properties back on the tax rolls. And the citizens are right. Land needs to be examined and used for the highest, best use. In some cases, that would be a new commercial business. In other cases, that may be nothing but open space with a view to the sky. We are so fortunate the City of Gardner has room for both visions.

    Who owns What in Route 140 area? (Near Winchendon line) – City owns 653 acres – GAAMHA Inc. owns 115 acres – Private Homes are marked as HOME and small parcels of vacant land are marked as LAND. The online Map database can be explored. CLICK HERE.

    Land Parcels near Route 140 in Gardner MA

  • Marijuana Deadly (9/4/2023)
    Marijuana Grim Reaper

    The Gardner City Council has before it a measure which would increase the number of allowed marijuana establishments in Gardner. Benefits to Gardner would include increased tax revenue from the added establishments. However, approval would almost certainly result in harm to the public health, considering the studies profiled by respected DailyMail.com which we have quoted here.

    So there is no doubt: Here’s the official U.S. Government source listing the dangers of marijuana: CLICK HERE.

    Need more proof? From the National Institute of Drug Abuse: CLICK HERE.

    Need even more proof of the dangers. This is from Web MD: CLICK HERE

    A reader shared this link to an article in the Worcester Business Journal – CLICK HERE.

    Teens Losing IQ Points —- Florida Deaths from Cannabis —- Marijuana Overdose Fatalities —- Legalization, more opioid deaths —- From the CDC

    Recent Studies May Affect City Council Vote on Increasing Number of Marijuana Establishments in the Chair City of Gardner MA

    Before the truth was known, television, radio, and magazine ads touted the health benefits of cigarettes. Similarly, marijuana has been touted a a benign drug. Turns out studies show this is a lie too. According to DailyMail.com, the number of adults using marijuana has doubled to 40 million in the last 10 years.(about 1 in 8 members of the U.S. population) Partly because of the increased potency in the current drug, its use has become increasingly dangerous and “can be a death sentence in pregnant users” The article lays bare the health effects of weed and why expanding the number of marijuana establishments in Gardner would be foolish and dangerous to public health. CLICK HERE. Information is confirmed by 3 other sources. See left column.

    Aside from the very real benefits to cancer patients and MS patients, marijuana has been proven extremely dangerous.

    The List of Proven Marijuana Dangers
    Marijuana is behind 3 in 10 schizophrenia cases
    Chronic use quadruples risk of bipolar disorder
    Regular use disrupts balance of neurotransmitters which regulate mood and motivation
    High-potency marijuana vapes have been causing psychotic breaks, suicidal thoughts, and deaths by suicide
    Those with depression who use it for calming abilities often get opposite effect.
    Research shows over 20 percent of users become addicted
    Marijuana users have double the rate of insomnia
    Pregnant users have 70 percent higher risk of having baby with major birth defects and 15% increased risk of stillbirth, and 85% higher risk of premature birth.
    Marijuana use contributes to coronary artery disease because it causes heart to beat faster and blood pressure to rise. Also increases risk of clots.
    Three quarters of marijuana smokers get emphysema which is worse than the 2/3 of tobacco users who get the disease. Only 5% of non-smokers get emphysema.
    Teens who smoke marijuana heavily lose IQ points – literally becoming dumber. And those who quit as adults don’t get all their smarts back. Read more.

    Publisher’s note: There are contrary studies out there presumably funded by the industry which tout the safety of marijuana. There are even those who propose the legalization of all drugs. But as the battle against drug overdose deaths continues locally, the dangers of any drug must be taken seriously. Addiction is a lifelong illness. Help is available. GAAMHA is an excellent local resource. —- The Gardner Community Action Team can also help, CLICK HERE.


  • Big Picture (9/1/2023)
    Work the Big Picture on Labor Day

    Happy Labor Day to all who work on behalf of their communities or their families. Many work very hard under the radar, while we benefit from their labors. On Labor Day, we hope you take a few minutes to relax a bit and crack a smile.

    Editorial: Understanding the Big Picture on Occasion of Labor Day

    To the Mayor of Gardner, Michael Nicholson who is constantly pushing ahead for the benefit of Gardner and has the courage to proceed knowing some ideas may fail. To the businesses who put in the work to become successful in the Chair City. To the masters of local industry who have put Gardner on the map. To members of the Gardner Team such as the DPW workers who worked overtime this summer to keep the grass mowed. To the Moms and Dads who provide for their families. To the volunteers out there who receive no compensation for their efforts. To Police and Fire for keeping us safe. To healthcare workers for keeping us well. To those with the courage to try, as positive impact to the community comes from those who care enough to make the effort in spite of criticism and who realize that the price of great success is a few failures along the way. Happy Labor Day, Monday, September 4, 2023.

    Gardner is succeeding because of hard work in being transparent with citizens such as availability of documents, meetings, and weekly updates. Gardner is succeeding because of hard work to get noticed by those who can benefit the City whether at the State or Federal level. Gardner is succeeding because even its leaders are willing to help others via work with non-profits. This is the Big Picture of hard work in Gardner. A day off for Labor Day is well deserved. Thank you all. You are appreciated!


  • Ethics – Transparency (8/30/2023)
    opinion-600

    How important is this issue?

    Kamuda Candidate for City Council AUDIO Interview: 10,887 listens as of 8/29/23

    Mayor Nicholson 8-11-23 AUDIO Update: 8,548 listens as of 8/29/23

    3 Years Mayor Nicholson AUDIO interview: 4,101 listens as of 8/29/23

    Bay State Racing AUDIO Interview: 3,888 listens as of 8/29/23

    These numbers include listens from August 2023 only. Based on our records from the past 2 years, this issue is a very important one for both those in favor and opposed. Our pages and articles regarding the issue and anything related have received a high amount of traffic.

    Editorial – The Ethics of Transparency Playing Out in Gardner MA

    On August 29, 2023, this Publisher did not hesitate to call out the CEO of a local business organization when the information imparted to us was not accurate or fair to a member business. This is the role of a trusted publication like Gardner Magazine. We try to tell it like it is. Unfortunately, that sometimes ruffles some feathers.

    Local Land – Zoning Issue

    I’m writing this at 4:20am on August 30, 2023 . I woke up really troubled by another example of the ethics of transparency. The citizens of Gardner are awaiting information regarding a local land issue. The same business impacted above wants to build in Gardner and is spending money towards that effort. At the same time, citizens opposed are spending money making lawn signs, creating graphics, and taking time away from friends and family on an issue which concerns them.

    What if the outcome is known? What if there is information given to City Officials which would immediately settle the issue, one way or the other? We say the ethics of transparency call for immediate disclosure to the public. No waiting until the next City Council meeting even if its only a few days away. No waiting until the next Planning Board meeting even if its only a couple weeks away. The Ethics of Transparency call for immediate disclosure, even if it’s not convenient. Disclosure is not a choice, it’s an obligation. And we urge that obligation be taken seriously without deliberation and without consideration of what timing would be best. True and pure transparency does not a jury need – it only needs to value the public’s right to know more than personal convenience.

    Werner Poegel, Publisher.


  • Flowers (8/23/2023)
    Flowers which are red and yellow

    Editorial: The Gardner Magazine Zoning Plan – It’s a Blooming Nutty Idea

    OK, so everyone is talking about zoning for the parcels on Route 140 in Gardner MA. So we’re throwing out another idea, rather nutty, and I’m the one who thought of it.

    Zone the parcels as “Beautiful Flowers Only” – Get the most beautiful flowers from everywhere in the country and plant them there. It will drive tourism to Gardner and what a beautiful sight for hikers.

    Do you and 9 other citizens have a better idea as to how these parcels should be zoned? Well, make a request to the Gardner City Council and the Planning Board will then have to consider it.


  • Parcels – Rumors (8/13/2023)
    Business Wish List

    So Many Possibilities of Commercial Businesses Wanting to Come to Gardner MA

    Should commercial land become available in Gardner, there are dozens of businesses which may be interested. Our Business Wish List page now has a gallery of possibilities. CLICK HERE If you’d like to hear the Mayor’s Update at the starting point of his explanation on the Zoning Process – the complete and correct explanation, CLICK PLAY on any device.

    Zoning Process 8-11-23 Mayor Michael Nicholson

  • Racetrack Angst (8/11/2023)
    opinion-600

    Publisher believes the reality of Horse Racing in Gardner is a longshot. Other business ideas probably would rate higher on “best interest of City” scale.

    Editorial – Why Council Members and the Mayor Can’t Pre-judge a Proposal

    Whether it’s a Horse Racing Track, a space museum, or robot factory, any business has a right by law to respond to a request for proposal. Part 1 covers what they propose to do with the property and Part 2 covers how much they’re willing to pay for it. Massachusetts Law requires the Mayor to consider proposals based on what is in the best interests of the City. If he were to publicly say YES or NO in favor of one idea or another, it would not be fair to all bidders who rightly expect a complete and fair review. With that said, there is a history of Horse Racing proposals being rejected by many communities for a variety of reasons so my suggestion is this: If ultimately the property becomes available as commercial land, make sure other parties propose something which is better for the City and you won’t have to worry about Horse Racing. Additionally: They should consider what businesses residents think we actually need and what’s in the best interest of the City – and, they are already required to do that under the law. So, is there really a problem or is it Social Media nonsense yet again?


  • Circ July 23 (8/2/2023)
    gardner magazine circulation 1200

    Gardner Magazine Releases Circulation Data

    Gardner Magazine Unique Circulation exceeds 20,000+ and AUDIO continues to be popular. We have details on this page, CLICK HERE.


  • Observed from Afar (7/30/2023)
    Observed from Afar

    Editorial: Everyone Has Their Eyes on Gardner MA and what this man is up to….

    This man was often masked during his first days in office in 2020. People could not see his smile as Gardner conducted one of the most effective vaccine operations in the State. And behind closed doors, this man made a list and used his time efficiently in planning to fix some long standing issues: A Downtown with buildings in need of revitalization. City-owned buildings which were off the tax rolls and falling apart. Projects in need of funding. Roads in need of more money. Citizens in need of services. Students at risk from not being in school. Now unmasked, the positive progress is quantifiable and transparently viewable, even from afar. People know where Gardner is and speak of the Chair City fondly.

    Gardner is in the 4th year of a better age. Its success is fueled by common sense, competency, and a willingness to think outside of the box. Gardner is being seen on viewscreens very far away, and what they see is good. Our best wishes to Mayor Michael Nicholson and the Team now and in the years ahead.


  • Gardner Fix It 2 (7/19/2023)
    fixitfever-1200

    Gardner MA Still Has “Fix It Fever”

    In July 2022, we reported on this contagious condition and are pleased to report that there has been no cure. Show your support and post this on your wall. “I Caught Fix It Fever Gardner MA” Printable pdf

    Positive Consequences of the “Fix It Fever” Phenomenon in the Chair City.
    A growing list of Projects are in progress with grant, investor, and taxpayer money with great results.
    Roads, sidewalks, and storefronts, and lighting have seen physical and aesthetic improvements.
    Entire buildings and facades have been getting complete overhauls to the delight of the community.
    Parks are being constructed and more work is planned. Example, Park Street Park.
    Art and Music support has increased and an Art and Music Center is in the works.
    A decline in Business Growth has been reversed with positive increases reported.
    A proactive effort is being made to improve various life issues in tangible ways..

    What’s happening in Gardner one year later? “Fix It Fever” is more contagious than ever. Everybody’s noticing it and everybody likes it. Gardner MA doesn’t need a cure for “Fix it Fever.” The blessings it brings continue to improve Gardner as a great place to Live, Work, Play, and Visit.


  • DPW Openings (7/13/2023)
    Exciting DPW Job Openings

    Gardner MA Acclaimed DPW Department has Openings

    It is Gardner’s “Much Loved” Department because it fixes the roads, plows the streets, mows the lawns does the digging, changes the bulbs, makes the signs, and helps so many. And good news, there are openings! There are currently 3 types of positions open: DPW Mechanic who performs skilled repair and maintenance of motor equipment and more, DPW Laborer who performs a variety of labor duties and gets to be outside in the fresh air a lot, DPW Truck Driver who operates any piece of motor driven equipment.

    These are prestigious positions which help keep the City of Gardner going at so many levels, offering tremendous job satisfaction, and come with benefits which increase the effective hourly rate. View the jobs with links to full descriptions and how to apply right here.


  • Bristles on the Backside (7/4/2023)
    Bristles on the Backside Fictional Play

    Gardner Magazine Debuts “Bristles on the Backside” Fictional Play

    The short play follows a Fictional City Hall scandal from beginning to resolution. No backsides were harmed in the production of the play. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

    Bristles on the Backside – Fictional Play – 7-4-23

    Included are characters playing people from the Mayor’s office, City Councilors, Chiefs McAvene and Lagoy, Conservation Agent Sophie Dorow, Building Commissioner Tom Zuppa, City Auditor John Richard, City Solicitor John Flick, Directors Dane Arnold, Trevor Beauregard, and Mike Ellis, Prevention Coordinator Veronica Patty, and City Clerk Titi Siriphan.

    hard toilet paper
    Bristles on the Backside

  • Aliens – City Hall (7/2/2023)
    Aliens at Gardner City Hall 6 29 23

    Aliens Shown in Photo of Summer Kickoff in Gardner MA Weren’t There…

    Yes, it looks like the child at left and the woman are looking at the alien. However, the extra-terrestrials are there only through our use of technical wizardry.

    With today’s technology, photos, videos, and audio can be created of events which never happened.

    So if you encounter something which looks fishy, don’t believe it right away. Healthy skepticism has saved many people from being scammed.

    View a High Res version of image to see if you can spot the edits. CLICK HERE.


  • Penguins (6/28/2023)
    King Penguins in Falkland Islands

    Penguins Spotted Having Conversation – Is it about Gardner MA?

    Gardner Magazine is willing to concede that these King Penguins may not be talking about Gardner. However, with everyone else praising the progress in the Chair City, is it really that much of a stretch?


  • Sizzling Summer (6/26/2023)
    Sizzling Summer Saturday 2023

    Coming Up: Chair City Summer Kickoff Thursday June 29, 2023 —- Food Truck Festival Saturday July 8, 2023 —- Summer Centennial Celebration Saturday July 22, 2023.

    Our Reflections on a Sizzling Summer Saturday in Gardner MA

    The weather was far from perfect on Saturday, June 24, 2023, but the people couldn’t have been closer to perfection.

    Downtown Businesses showed their Yankee strength and strove on with enclosures for the rain. Downtown restaurants served delicious meals to eager customers.

    The Gardner CAC collected jars of peanut butter for their Food Drive.

    The Kendall Pond Betterment Association put on a Fireworks show to celebrate Gardner’s 238th birthday and Centennial as a City.

    Gardner Mayor Nicholson was in Downtown playing with a huge snake. Gardner Magazine wonders what is harder? Handling a real snake or navigating the outside agencies he must in order to bring funding in to the City.

    Of course, a big highlight of Saturday was the absolutely sizzling artwork presented by hundreds of students from Gardner Elementary School. It graced the Downtown. Theresa Thompson of the Centennial Committee took a photo of the contest winners who each took home a gift basket.

    It may not have been a perfect weather day, but when Gardner gets together as a community, it’s about as close to perfect as it can get. And that is always worth celebrating….


  • Corner Disney (6/9/2023)
    Disney Portraits of the Corner Office rev

    Disney Portraits of Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, Executive Aide Colin Smith, and Executive Assistant Rachael Roberts

    Editorial: A Week in Gardner MA out of a Disney Script

    In Disney Movies, everything seems to go right sometimes. Such was the week in Gardner Massachusetts. Straight off the 3rd year of a perfect audit, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and his team including City Auditor John Richard prepared the budget so well it received no opposition from the Gardner City Council despite the scrutiny of various Committees. A job well done. The Ribbon Cutting at the Gardner Elementary School was a cause for celebration as the City has its first school in 100 years built for kids k-6. Various Park Improvements continue. Renovations are underway in Downtown as flowers are blooming. Upcoming music events were highlighted. And behind the scenes the team in the corner office is working on greater support for Art in the Chair City. Yes, some weeks things just seem to go right….


  • Light On (5/10/2023)
    The Light is On in Gardner

    The Light is On in Gardner MA and the Future is Bright

    The Gardner DPW is Hanging Lights in Downtown Gardner to brighten it up for the summer. This action inspired the Gardner Magazine production of “The Light is on in Gardner” featuring over a dozen different musical artists and an uplifting narrative. Listen on any device to this CD quality production. CLICK PLAY

    The Light is On in Gardner

    The City of Gardner is a shining beacon of promise in Central Massachusetts and this production literally in vocals of light showcases the Chair City’s positive values. More is coming to the Great Chair City of Gardner. From parks and recreation, to arts and music. Increased health care. Businesses you want. Industries providing jobs.

    Spread the word. Gardner is in the light. And the future is bright. So much is within reach. So much is within sight.


  • Accolades (5/5/2023)
    Accolades Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

    Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Accumulating Accolades

    Mayor Nicholson of Gardner has a long list of adjectives, nouns, and verbs to his credit. The latest is being named one of this year’s Power 50 by the Worcester Business Journal. See Press Release, CLICK HERE.

    The Mayor stated, “I’m extremely proud of all we’ve accomplished in Gardner in just a few short years. My team and I have worked to turn distressed areas into the promise of tomorrow, brought life into areas that were run down, invested in our education and infrastructure more than we ever have before, and we’ve put Gardner on the map as an up and coming community, one that will bring a revitalized area, a place people will want to live and work. But we still have a lot of work left to do- and I can’t wait.”

    Mayor Nicholson has announced his intention to run for reelection.


  • Confirmed 2023 (5/5/2023)
    Only Candidate So Far

    Gardner MA City Clerk’s office Reports No Candidates Yet

    As of Friday, May 5, 2023, there are no official candidates for any office in the upcoming Gardner election. Positions coming up for vote are Mayor, City Council, and School Committee. 50 certified signatures are required to get on the ballot. So far, according to the Gardner City Clerk’s office, there are no candidates. If this trend continues, the only thing in the voting booth this Fall might be a cuddly teddy bear.

    Don’t worry, candidates have until 5pm on August 15, 2023 to submit signatures. In 100 years as a City, we don’t know of Gardner ever having had an election without candidates. Gardner Election and Candidate Details on pdf, click here.

    Previous article on Elections 2023, click here


  • Meeting Sense (5/4/2023)
    Common Sense Meetings

    Common sense is sound, practical judgment concerning everyday matters, or a basic ability to perceive, understand, and judge in a manner that is shared by nearly all people.

    EDITORIAL – Common Sense Solution to Open Meeting Law Concerns and Worries

    Gardner Magazine reached out informally to a contact at the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office. In my view, for some time, Gardner has opened itself up to potential violations when a few simple changes could avoid ALL problems. Based on an exchange with my contact, here’s my suggestions.

    Councilor Walsh was simply being prudent. Most likely there is NO PROBLEM. However, I make the following common sense suggestions 1. If a group of Councilors want an item on the agenda (5 or less so it’s not a quorum) send the request to the Clerk’s office for inclusion on the agenda and discuss only at the Open Meeting. Don’t even email a meeting agenda, make Councilors get it from the same section on the website as the public. 2. Get rid of the very silly “New Business” and have an “Unanticipated Topics” section instead. If someone attempts to speak on something which clearly could have been anticipated, either the Council President or another Councilor could raise a point of order, suggesting that the matter be posted for discussion at the next meeting. Simple common sense changes, NO MORE POTENTIAL PROBLEMS. Sometimes a little common sense is the easiest solution. And common sense doesn’t cost anything.


  • Paraphrased in Error (4/4/2023)
    Paraphrasing Is Not Fact

    Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel Victim of Paraphrasing

    There is a difference in our journalism here. It is fundamentally positive. But more than that, it is intended to be 100 percent accurate. We publish the actual AUDIO of meetings and the entirety of Press Releases so there is no question as to the intent of the people involved. However, at a Joint Public Hearing of the Gardner Planning Board and City Council, I spoke in support of the Mayor’s Route 140 Zoning Proposal stating, “The Planning Board did not act with common sense in this matter”. However, in an article authored by Stephen Landry in the Gardner News the following false statement was made “Werner Poegel of Templeton said the Planning Board, which had previously voted unanimously to not recommend the proposed zoning changes, did not act with the city’s best interests in mind when coming to its decision.” I reached out to the reporter stating that in my opinion, “People can exercise what in the opinion of others is bad judgment while still in their view acting in the City’s best interests.”

    The Reporter’s Response

    The reporter emailed back and wrote, “I didn’t quote you, I paraphrased you. You said Winchendon and Templeton acted too slow, ergo it would be in the city’s best interest to vote the other way. “I wrote back to the reporter, “Give me a break.  You didn’t use quotes but you said I said something I didn’t say.  You used the words “Werner Poegel of Templeton said…” You made it seem that I said the Planning Board did not act with the city’s best interests in mind and I disagree with that statement.   What you don’t understand is people can believe they are acting in the best interest of the City, but be taking the wrong action in the opinion of others. I wrote to the reporter,”So where do we go from here?   Do you issue a retraction or do I have to call you out on my site?” The reporter responded in an email,” Do what you have to do” Had the position been reversed, we would have immediately corrected our error and don’t understand why he would not do so.

    Publisher’s Comment

    At Gardner Magazine, we believe in accurately quoting people. We make every effort not to paraphrase, as just in the case of my own situation here, it can result in inaccuracy. In this case, I had to reach out to the Planning Board to make them aware I was not criticizing their intentions, but only disagreeing with their conclusions. There is a fundamental difference as I believe all of the members of the Planning Board have the best interests of Gardner in mind when making their decisions. We do hope that their final recommendation is to support Mayor Nicholson’s position on the Route 140 Zoning change when they reconsider and reevaluate the facts.

    Responsible Paraphrasing

    Now how would my statement have been responsibly paraphrased? There is an online AI tool called quillbot.com which took my statement, “ The Planning Board did not act with common sense in this matter” and restated it as “The Planning Board handled this situation without using common sense.” As you can see, it is not exactly the same, but it does not erroneously change my statement to make it appear I was judging the intent of the Planning Board.

    Final Comment

    We believe the Gardner News is a fine publication and that Stephen Landry is a fine reporter. However, we fundamentally disagree with some of their approaches and would have preferred not to be forced into making a public big deal of this. I am smart enough to recognize that I approach life with my unique lens and have a built-in bias even though I don’t intend it. Therefore, I believe that by publishing Press Releases in their entirety,(usually in PDF format) and by publishing the actual AUDIO of interviews and the AUDIO of various meetings, we do a much better public service. Werner Poegel, Publisher.


  • Zoning Change (3/31/2023)
    Route 140 Zoning Change Editorial
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    Editorial – Gardner MA – Route 140 Proposed Zoning Change Is Common Sense Choice

    Approval of Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Route 140 Zoning Change proposal is simple common sense. Since being sworn in, the Mayor has looked at properties throughout the City in an effort for them to have their “best use”. The Development Department has been active in recruiting new property owners to renovate blighted properties. Unused City properties have been put up for sale to get them back on the tax rolls. Maki Park and Park Street Park have been authorized to provide additional recreational space. The City is getting State help to market the former Garbose Metal site.

    Business Interest in Gardner

    There’s been lots of interest from companies who want to come to Gardner, but need more land than is currently available. This change would not only mitigate that problem, but also allay concerns over too much potential future residential development in the Route 140 area which would have an actual adverse environmental and safety impact, and create a strain on City resources. In our opinion, the Planning Board erred in not recommending the Route 140 zoning change. This is something the Gardner City Council can correct on Monday. To the citizens of Gardner: Mayor Nicholson has proven he has your back – we all can see the changes for the better. Show your support by showing up at the Public Hearing Monday, April 3, 2023 at 6:30pm and speak in favor of Common Sense.


  • Official SuperHeroes (3/26/2023)
    Superhero Officials 3 26 23

    Editorial: Who Are They Really – Gardner’s Top Officials & Staff of the Corner Office

    Sometimes you just have to sit back and think a little bit. And then, like a light bulb emanating intelligence it becomes clear. Things are not what they seem. Mere humans could not have aided Gardner’s phenomenal growth and entrance into new found prosperity and excellence in the past couple years.

    So I ask, who are they really? Is Council President Kazinskas really Batwoman, is Mayor Michael Nicholson Superman, is Executive Aide Colin Smith, the Flash, and is Rachael Roberts Wonder Woman? It can’t possibly be that they are simply good at their jobs and are part of a team of everyday SuperHeroes, answering the Chair City call to success. No that can’t be it. Who are they…I mean…really?

    When you see each of these people this week, ask them, who are they really?


  • Comics Page (3/10/2023)
    Comics page collage

    Gardner Magazine Comics Page Makes Fun of Well Known People and More….

    President Trump as an Athlete. President Biden as an Oilman. Kamala Harris and her Yellow School Bus. Trump and Putin. What if Presidents Obama, Trump, and Biden opened a burger joint or a hot dog stand? See President Trump as a Nanny. See Ronald Regan, the Past – Present – and future together. Jimmy Carter. A Super K9 Dog. President Biden and his clone. Of course, President Trump with a huge burger and fries. Alex Trebek. Abraham Lincoln. All in good fun, some completely ridiculous! All and more on our Comics page. CLICK HERE


  • $6,000,000 Yes (3/7/2023)
    The 6 Million Dollar Yes

    EDITORIAL: Gardner MA City Council Funding Approval

    EDITORIAL: In what could be the biggest investment bargain in Municipal Government History, the Gardner City Council has approved Mayor Michael Nicholson’s request for $60,000.

    The money will be used to hire a 3rd party to go after EXTRA grants which current staff does not have sufficient manpower to pursue.. The City will pay for the time involved. With so many grant opportunities out there which could have fallen through the cracks, we predict this could be a $6 million Yes and a potentially huge return on investment. The City will receive monthly updates so we’ll all know very soon whether the idea is a stroke of genius like we think or a big flop. My bet is on the Chair City every time. We applaud the Gardner City Council for carefully considering and ultimately approving the Mayor’s idea. Werner Poegel, Publisher Detailed in City Council meeting article of March 6, 2023Here is the Scope of Assistance Plan


  • Shoe Sizes (2/15/2023)
    Impact of Shoes

    EDITORIAL: Impact of Shoe Sizes on the City of Gardner MA

    Gardner Magazine chooses not to publish the salaries of all City Employees because we see no useful purpose in it. However, we will say that it is great that Gardner is finally getting close to having competitive pay for talented individuals such as Gardner’s School Superintendent who arguably has done an awesome job in lifting up Gardner Education to its highest level in decades, those in Public Safety who keep residents safe everyday, those talented in Government who have helped to lift Gardner out of its malaise, and those gifted teachers who have earned higher pay by staying with the Gardner School system. Worth every penny in my opinion.

    More important is the Impact of Shoes. My freedom of information request would be to get the shoe size of everyone in the employ of the City. After all, bigger feet must wear City floors and carpets more and perhaps these individuals should be taxed for this benefit. (LOL). Positive reporting is what you’ll get out of Gardner Magazine. And we make no apologies for it. Werner Poegel, Publisher.