Editorials

Editorial – Opinion – Reflection

• Commentary – MA State Parks

  

  A Commentary by Werner Poegel: Massachusetts State Parks

  Covering Massachusetts State Parks. What’s available. How to obtain an annual pass. All the ins and outs. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Fiscal 6 Findings

  

  

  Editorial: Findings of the Fiscal 6 Project About Gardner MA

  Listen to a commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  So what did we discover which has set Gardner apart and for which we can accurately give Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, the Gardner Team, the Gardner City Council, the Gardner School Committee, Department Heads and School Administrators a lot of credit. Here goes:

  The findings: There’s been a concerted effort to improve basic city services including upgrading the electronic interfaces with City Hall to make things easier, better, and more efficient. There’s been a focus on turning blighted private properties into future promise by, for example, getting an absentee landlord who owned 8 properties in Downtown to sell 7 of them to private investors who would renovate them and make downtown look better. We observed the proactive effort to either sell unused City properties so they can be put to good use and bring in tax money, or in the case of Waterford Street School, turn it in to something fabulous like the Waterford Community Center from which we seem to get good news every other month or so.

  Findings continued: There has been a better way of interacting with City employees with the “people are policy” approach so that for the most part, excellence is displayed across all departments. An initiative was launched in 2020 to be more transparent – and here’s where the Mayor really stands out by being so detailed in his communications with the Gardner City Council that many questions are answered ahead of time. Agendas and documents are displayed with meeting notices and now about 1300 videos of various meetings, a huge effort to keep the citizenry informed. An online checkbook was established where you can see every bill paid in the last week or over a decade ago. We observed the proactive approach to improving education by improving facilities and working on the actual curriculum with various programs in place to make sure each student rises to their level of ability and interest. There has been a greater awareness of the environment and energy and work in that regard. Under Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, the City of Gardner has practiced a high degree of fiscal responsibility resulting in 4 years in a row of perfect Federal audits and similar private audits of the City finances. We observed a focus on bringing in needed housing to meet needs in the City with additional proactive efforts to be addressed going forward with the first ever Master Plan. There have been infrastructure improvements including a higher percentage of streets paved each year, water and sewer upgrades, and internet connectivity enhancements. To bring the City in to the 21^st century, a huge amount of work has been done to update the City Charter, various ordinances, administrative rules, and policies. The books were completely cleaned up such as rescinding outdated loan orders. There’s been a lot of out of the box thinking such as the fountain at Orpheum Park, and so many aesthetic improvements in so many different areas. Mayor Nicholson himself has made improving public transportation a priority and still serves as the Chair of the MART advisory board. Gardner has become a hub for veterans services, and programs for Gardner’s older population are added to all the time. This is but a glimpse in to what Fiscal 6 shows about the City of Gardner.

  Werner Poegel – Publisher

  To see the complete Fiscal 6 Project, please visit Fiscal6.com for complete interview AUDIO, complete text of the interviews, and so much more Fiscal6.com, CLICK HERE.

  The Fiscal 6 Project explores in detail the changes and successes which have occurred in the City of Gardner over the last 5 years. There are more than 3 dozen categories, ALL with success stories. Fiscal6.com, CLICK HERE.

  

  

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• Flake and Dr. Mayo

  

  Gardner Magazine Debuts Fictional Radio Play “The Story of the Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo”

  On the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of 7-12-25, there was a debut of the Radio Play “Our Lady the Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo”, along with a commentary by Werner Poegel. The Radio Play is a work of fiction which took over 6 hours to produce. Listen to the Commentary/Play on any device. Or listen to the Radio Play separately.

  The point of the commentary and the play is to dissuade individuals from making false posts and comments instead of discussing actual local issues. The commentary covers these problems and the play “The Story of the Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo” is intended to drive the point home.

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• Commentary – Petty Gripes

  

  Commentary – Petty Gripes

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Firefighters – Razzmatazz

  

  We thank our firefighters for putting out fires wherever they may be, saving people and animals, providing first aid, responding to incidents, doing the rescues, disaster relief, and fire prevention work including inspections, education, community outreach, and so much more… THANK YOU!

  Something Really Special for our Firefighters – Firefighters with Pizzazz

  Honoring our firefighters with an assemblage of original song of very high caliber. All of these songs were more complex productions than usual (Hollywood quality) and you’ll appreciate the theme. From solos, complete chorus, instruments, etc. We bring you Razzmatazz for Firefighters with Pizzazz. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Thank you Firefighters! You have Pizzazz!

  Firefighters Commentary

  Complete Firefighters Commentary with Werner Poegel detailing all the good our firefighters do. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

  WGAW Radio Coverage

  The recent Gardner Firefighters Memorial Service is part of the Saturday, Hotline Radio Show on WGAW for Saturday, June 21, 2025. Show airs noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streamed worldwide.

  To listen to archives of the past year of Hotline Radio shows, visit this page on the WGAW website, CLICK HERE.

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• Gardner Educators

  

  To the Gardner School Committee and Gardner Educators, Administrators, and Staff: When you think about these things this summer in the middle of having the summer fun you deserve, I hope you say to yourselves, let’s do more of this next year. Let’s positively affect the lives of more students. Let’s show off the Gardner model for education. Because what you’re doing is nothing short of extraordinary.

  Gardner Magazine Recognizes “Gardner Educators” with Pop Ballad – Also Commentary

  Gardner Magazine is recognizing Gardner Educators from the pre-school to High School level, Gardner Public School Administrators, and the Gardner School Committee. Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to the song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Publisher Werner Poegel stated, “I’ve been watching Gardner Educators, the Gardner School Committee, and Gardner Public School Administrators. I’m been observing you for a few years, watching you out of the corner of my eye and with closeup vision. And what I see is nothing short of extraordinary. And I thought it was time to tell you. Because you deserve to know.“

  Poegel stated, “Let’s tackle the difficult subject of D.E.I. In the Gardner Public Schools, you have taken the DEI song and made it your own, molded it so it resulted in a better vision. In some parts of the country, DEI is used to dummy down the general populace of students so that others can feel better about themselves. I’m very impressed that in Gardner, you do it differently. From the youngest pupils to graduating seniors, you seem to have a process in place which identifies the specific learning needs of each individual. And because you do that, each individual is able to rise much higher towards their full potential. You’re not dummying down, you’re always lifting up. And that effort has been extraordinary in the Gardner Public Schools. That is why your reading scores are trending up. That is why you have so many high school graduates with college courses under their belt. You are setting these students up to be successful in life. You have created the modernized version of reading, writing, and arithmetic and you have nearly perfected it.”

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• Editorial $2.24

  

  Editorial: Where did the $2.24 go on July 24, 2014 in Gardner MA?

  Gardner MA Open checkbook offers an incredible level of detail and there was indeed a check written by the City of Gardner for just over 2 dollars on July 24, 2014. It was check number 183329 and Gardner Magazine picked it at random to prove a point. Despite the incredible level of inaccurate and false nonsense continually peddled by a few wackos, the City of Gardner is actually completely transparent as to where it spends money and what it takes in. In fact, everyone can access the open checkbook and find out what was paid out last week or over a decade ago. Look for yourself anytime at this link, CLICK HERE.

  On the other side of the ledger: The State of Massachusetts is transparent about the monies received by municipalities. To view the Cherry Sheet detail by Program, visit the Department of Local Services page, CLICK HERE.

  Any more questions? Simply call the Mayor’s office at (978) 630-1490 or ask your City Councilor to get you some information. In addition, Gardner Magazine publishes all the AUDIO of City Council, School Committee and other meetings at which revenues and expenses are often discussed in great detail.

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• Commentary – Summer Concerts

  

  Commentary – Summer Concerts

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY

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• Commentary – Budget

  

  Commentary – Budget

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY

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• Gardner Kindness

  

  This is the song featured in the longer podcast about the honor Gardner received as a City of Kindness.

  From the song: “I’m in the City of Everyday Kindness, I’m in the City of Gardner Mass., People greet you warmly on the street, People are kind to whomever they meet.”

  Publisher’s Note: Kindness and civility are encouraged in Gardner, whether it’s the City Council meetings, School Committee meetings, or Boards and Commissions. Local non-profits show kindness every day. Even parts of the Gardner School Curriculum teach kindness. DPW workers, Firemen, and Police officers are community-oriented. Gardner is very deserving of the recognition.

  Gardner Does It Again – 3^rd Honor in a Week – Named Kindest City in Massachusetts

  In the Greet Streets Survey, the City of Gardner was singled out as topping the entire state of Massachusetts for everyday kindness. Visit survey website, CLICK HERE. The following commentary aired on WGAW about Gardner, the City of Kindness

  Gardner Massachusetts came in at number 96 nationally. And, according to this survey, it tops Massachusetts for everyday kindness. Here’s what the survey providers said: “Gardner’s got that tight-knit, friendly energy where people greet you even if they’ve only met once. In Monument Park or near the downtown shops, you’ll hear laughter, friendly conversations, and maybe even an impromptu hello from someone passing by.”

  AMFM Health ran a survey of 3,011 travelers in order to rank U.S. cities and towns by how often people greet strangers in public – whether it’s a nod on a hiking trail, a “good morning” at the coffee shop, or a friendly “how ya doin’?’” in line at the grocery store. Hilo, Hawaii was #1, and 4 communities located in either North or South Carolina were in the top 10.

  Why does it matter? Research shows that small social interactions with strangers can boost mood, reduce stress, and create a stronger sense of belonging. A quick smile or hello can be surprisingly powerful in helping people feel less isolated – even on their busiest days. Listen to our “Deep Dive” explaining it all and introducing the “Gardner: City of Everyday Kindness” song. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  In the past week, Gardner was singled out as the #115 City in the Country for the “Best Bang for Your Buck”, SEE ARTICLE, CLICK HERE. and Heywood Healthcare was named to the Top 150 List of Places to work in Healthcare, SEE ARTICLE, CLICK HERE.

  
  If you’d like to download the song separately, here it is:

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• Commentary – Happened in Gardner

  

  Commentary – Happened in Gardner

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A very positive take on what’s happening in Gardner, Massachusetts and some clips of the song, “The Chair City is Back”

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• Editorial – Blake

  

  

  Editorial: Blake on an Island of Few – Up to Old Tricks?

  This week Kimberly Blake announced she was running for Mayor instead of Gardner City Council. Weeks before, Blake arranged this Publisher’s re-admittance into the DeMeo Facebook Group. I’ve been posting a few things including a very positive post about the 4 years of perfect audits achieved by the Nicholson Financial Team. False Attacks began again, against me, against the Mayor, even against the State Representative, some using anonymous accounts. Of course I corrected the record and asked Blake via private Facebook message to honor her promise of not allowing false or personal attacks in that group. – Her response: “Comments like those should be made using the persons real name, not anonymous.” In other words, she would not honor her word, but did take down a few anonymous attacks. I spent many minutes on Saturday, May 3rd responding to the most salacious and ridiculous posts with facts, not attacks against anyone. This upset the liars and false mud slingers who reported me to Paul DeMeo.

  The Group did a Poll and almost Nobody Cared

  A self-serving poll was attempted in that group stating “With nearly 17k members in this group, I have to ask, who has your vote for mayor? Only 232 group members responded (almost all for Blake) but only 1.4% of the group even cared to respond in 18 hours. That means 98.6% of the group didn’t care during that time. In light of the goings on of last time, it is very clear, Blake’s candidacy is on an island of the very few. In my opinion, given Blake’s past actions, demeanor, and varied concerns on the part of many, it would be a sad day if that person was ever elected Mayor of Gardner. Why would you not rehire Michael Nicholson who by all objective data has done an excellent job since he took office in July 2020? UPDATE: 5-4-25 9:30PM – Interest rose slightly to 1.5% with 36 more participants. Update 5-6-25 3:30pm Interest rose to 1.7%

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  In my opinion, DeMeo Threw a Fit

  In my opinion, Paul DeMeo was just not having it. People would be called out on false attacks and/or false statements. That just couldn’t be. He was losing the narrative. So, once again this Publisher was removed from that Facebook Group. For a brief time, he actually posted a poll “your vote will decide Werner Poegel’s fate.” When I had some fun and added an option for me to become an admin and some members voted for that, well that was it for the poll. The poll itself disappeared and so did me from the group. Some have commented to me that I was only made a member again so that Blake could use me for the vast platform Gardner Magazine has – my opinion agrees with that sentiment. What they didn’t count on is Gardner Magazine is about facts and you will always get the truth reported here. We only hope that other local media will not be manipulated to spread what in my opinion is often nonsense.

  Update 5/5/25: DeMeo Retaliated for this article by falsely claiming this Publisher had made verbal attacks against “Animal Control Officers” who we hold in high regard and have often recognized. DeMeo twisted a comment made to Kimberly Blake, “You don’t deserve to be dogcatcher, let alone Mayor“. As it takes great character to handle the job of dogcatcher properly, the insult is to the candidate, not the dogcatcher. In my opinion, Kimberly Blake’s unwillingness to immediately remove false, sick, or perverted comments on that DeMeo-Blake Group (she stated simply that they shouldn’t be posted anonymously) renders her unsuited for the strength of character needed for the position she is seeking. BLAKE SUPPORT DIPS: After a 3 day poll on the Mayor’s Race, Blake was able to obtain interest in the poll of only 1.7% of group members. In my opinion, this is simply fallout from what went on when Blake ran for Mayor in 2023 and the public does not soon forget.

  Hope for a Positive Campaign

  Gardner Magazine is hoping that Blake will opt for a positive campaign without dirty tricks. However, should it be otherwise, we will call out any false statements in the event they occur. Maybe a song will dissuade bad behavior. So just for fun, we have an original song called “Dirty Tricks” available in 3 versions. Play on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Facts matter…

• Winchendon 4-22-25

  

  This Editorial in Commentary form. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to the full song “Winchendon Common Sense Override” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  An Editorial Letter to the People of Winchendon on the Proposed $2.9 million Override

  With so many barbs being thrown about with regard to a Prop 2 ½ override, I thought I’d approach the issue with my own brand of common sense and also keep it simple without any political mumbo jumbo. My article contains an actual song I wrote on what I’m calling the “Common Sense Override” Bottom Line: Yes, Winchendon has had some problems over the years and has some big fiscal challenges Bottom Line: Yes, having to do an override sucks. But let’s look at reality. Things are so much more expensive than they were a few years back and the normal tax levy just won’t cover the bills. Even Duxbury which hasn’t had an override in almost 4 decades is seeking one this year. (Vote failed last month -2,174 no votes and 1,981 yes votes) Winchendon is not alone. But it is the only town in the United States named Winchendon. It is a truly special community. And it needs the support of its community of people to continue its progress. The $2.9 million override if approved would result in continuing a positive trajectory. It would be a win for the town. It would be a win for you.

  The average single family Winchendon home is valued at just under $341 grand with a current tax bill of $4,006. Without the override, the bill goes up to $4,187 an increase of $181 or 15 bucks a month. With the $2.9 million override, the bill goes up to $4948, an additional increase of $761 or just under $64 bucks a month. You know what I would do in my household? I’d vote for the override because the value of the services maintained is worth it. After all, it’s part of why you live in such a wonderful town. If my budget was tight, I’d say, Hmm, I’d get rid of some of my expensive cable tv services instead, you know you could easily save about 80 bucks a month getting the same channels through a streaming service. And by the way, the FREE library can get you a lot of media for zilch, nothing. And do you really want to be the person who doesn’t support the senior citizens in Winchendon. Do you really want to cut badly needed supplies for Parks, Recreation, Fire, and public works. Do you really want to cut athletics, staffing, and programs at the schools? What is the monthly value of all that? It’s worth the 2 bucks a day extra you’d be spending. Keep what is needed to maintain a great town. Set up Winchendon for a better fiscal future. I know for some the thought is this: You’re tired of everyone picking your pocket. And you’re right. It pisses me off too. Every time we turn around, something goes up. Things you don’t have control over. So the tendency with an override that you have control over would be to start with a NO. However, funding your town is about as close to home as it gets and the consequences are very impactful. Please consider spending an average of an extra $64 per month to give Winchendon, your town, the full support it deserves. And then, after you say YES, I’d like you to do this. Stay involved locally. Make sure today’s leaders are followed tomorrow by fiscally responsible leaders. Let them know you are willing to invest in Winchendon. You’re willing to invest in Winchendon’s Future. You’re willing to invest in your kids future. You want people to be attracted to Winchendon so in case you ever want to sell your house, you can get what it’s worth, not tens of thousands less because you decided not to invest in your town. And remember this: You’re the boss. You employ the town’s leaders. You employ the administrators in the schools. And you have every right to demand competence and excellence. not one penny of your tax money should be wasted.

  Vote for the $2.9 million override because it’s in your best long-term interest. But before you vote YES at town meeting, let the town leaders know that it’s your money and you will expect and demand that it be spent wisely, this year and years down the road.

  Werner Poegel, Publisher Gardner Magazine.

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• Commentary – Drought

  

  Commentary – Drought

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY

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• Commentary – When It’s Free

  

  Commentary – When It’s Free

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• MART Riders

  

  EDITORIAL – Full, Half Empty, a few riders, or empty – which is it?

  Gardner City Councilor Karen Hardern got approval to have an informal meeting with the City Council and MART to discuss safety concerns and the amount of ridership. MART has been FREE and Hardern suggests the model may not be working.

  FREE ridership on MART may not make any sense if ridership doesn’t increase by 20 fold in some cases as Councilor Hardern complains that some routes have no riders or 2 riders.   With 2 riders, you’d need a 50% increase in riders to have just 1 more person.  So what’s relevant are the real numbers. My idea would be that ridership would not be FREE, but could be rebated to an individual if a desired threshold is met, thus encouraging public transportation and actually making a difference in the environment.  It appears the current model might actually be having a negative effect if Hardern’s concerns have validity.  Without any real numbers but just percentages, we have no real data to really know what’s going on.   Are the buses successfully full, half empty, or often empty?   The answer would be helpful.

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• Commentary –

  

  Commentary – The Calendar

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – Government Information

  

  Commentary – Government Information

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary

  

  Commentary – People and Pets

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Election Apology

  

  Editorial: Gardner Magazine Publisher to be Publicly Flogged for Election Story Screwup (no flogging please)

  Gardner Magazine published an incorrect date in an Election story.

  The correct date to obtain nomination papers in Gardner is beginning April 1st.

  We regret the error so much we have released an official apology song. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Here is our story with the correct information, CLICK HERE. Complete Schedule included.

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• Commentary –

  

  Commentary – Immigration Policies

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Threshold of 3

  

  Renting a storefront, putting up a sign, and doing Social Media posts is not a recipe for success. We’ve seen too many local businesses fail because they don’t understand the need for REAL ADVERTISING whether it’s here, WGAW Radio, TV, Direct Mail, flyers, or shouting from the rooftops.

  Investopedia has a helpful article on the top 6 reasons why new businesses fail. It’s worth a read, CLICK HERE.

  Editorial: Threshold of 3 Violated Daily in Greater Gardner MA – and Commentary

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  It’s a simple concept violated daily by local officials, business owners, non-profit operators, and individuals – failure to cross the threshold of 3. The average person needs to be exposed to something about 3 times in order for it to sink in. That means relying on Facebook posts alone has caused the failure of information to get across and contributed to the demise of local businesses.

  Every business, organization, or government entity should have a website and post ANY material there (on the home page) of whatever is important enough to post on Social Media. Only about 3 percent of the membership of any one Facebook Group visit on any given day – no more than a few hundred people. Gardner Magazine has thousands of daily visits. WGAW has thousands of daily listeners. Thousands watch TV. Thousands get their mail. It’s important for businesses to do REAL advertising, reaching people often, crossing the threshold of 3, and building the business. Only 25% of new businesses make it to the 15 year mark. But those with an organized advertising plan rarely fail.

  Let me give you some local examples of those who didn’t really advertise and failed in Downtown: Crown Chicken (not once, but twice), the Nutrition Shake Shop (not once but twice), a downtown fashion store which lasted about 2 months, a bridal shop, a thrift shop, and the grocery store on the corner of the Garbose Building. New business coming in to Gardner is wonderful. Keeping a business afloat requires avoiding the violation of the Threshold of 3. Real success requires some sort of planned, real promotion which yes, costs some money, but not as much as you think. And certainly not as much as the heartache of having to close your doors.

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• Commentary

  

  Commentary – Who Listens to WGAW

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – Volunteers

  

  Commentary – Volunteers

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Throne of Shame

  

  Musical Editorial – “Throne of Shame” Released by Gardner Magazine

  With so much talk about the proposed Sludge Landfill Expansion, we’re releasing a musical editorial. The subject is the “Throne of Shame”. We all sit there and do our business with little thought of the consequences. As the song says, “Just send it away with the push of a lever, Thinking it’s gone, but it’s here forever.” No matter what the waste, we need to think of the consequences to the future and the wellbeing of our children and grandchildren.

  Listen to the quirky, nutty, but hopefully thought-provoking song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary –

  

  Commentary – Presidents

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• 18 HR. Commentary

  

  Commentary – 18 Hour Trade War – Not a Conflict at All

  The recent 18 Hour Trade War was not a war at all. Listen to the commentary on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to the song featured in the commentary by itself, the 18 Hour Trade War song. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Visit the song page with lyrics and an additional version of the song, CLICK HERE.

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• Commentary – Nothing Like a Book

  

  Commentary – Like a Book

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – Comedy One Liners

  

  Commentary – Comedy One Liners

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• Groundhog Day

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Groundhog Day” song and Groundhog Day Special Report.

  Groundhog Day is February 2nd every year. It has a long history which we chronicle in our lengthy special report below. We also have a fun song entitled “Groundhog Day”. Listen to the fun song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  In the Groundhog Day Special Report, you’ll learn more than you ever wanted to know about the history of this day, the groundhog, and whether he will see his shadow or not. Listen to the report on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Bring Critical

  

  Editorial: Being Critical Part of Media Role

  Gardner Magazine is often criticized for being overly positive about the Chair City. We agree. This publication has a “cup is half full” approach. It’s often easy to be positive as current Mayor Nicholson has been instrumental in turning things around. But in the rush to complete badly needed tasks on the to-do list, certain items get overlooked.

  99% of City employees are great and do their jobs very well. But when they don’t, we believe accountability is key. Even if someone just got appointed and the City would owe them 2 years pay, in my opinion it is shortsighted to keep them on the payroll. Cut them loose no matter what it costs because the “good” employees don’t like it when a bad performer is allowed to remain. And it can be argued that the damage they may cause more than offsets the immediate costs of letting them go. The same goes for Boards and Commissions, some of which are admittedly hard to staff. Even so, if a Board Chair mistreats a member of the public they should be gone. In my opinion, such a situation happened recently. We expressed our strongest concerns very privately but heard nothing back. Our public editorial comments were a bit watered down, our outrage tempered with a bit of restraint.

  Years ago when local newspapers still did editorials and letters to the editor were published officials had to respond. When I used to fill in for Ken Ash on WGAW’s Party Line as a 20 year old, if a businessman was mistreated at a meeting, there would have been many calls and the official would either apologize, resign, or be terminated. City Councilors openly and publicly criticized each other’s positions and it was very healthy for democracy. Today, Social Media fills some of the void, but unfortunately many negative comments are inaccurate or simply false so people tend to take things with a grain of salt and call it “unwanted drama.”

  Gardner Magazine will continue to be positive most all of the time because positivity is better than negativity and 99% of the time it is warranted. But, we will also hold public officials to account for their actions and sometimes we will even be wrong in the assessment, but we pledge to bring you accurate information in the form of AUDIO of meetings and full PRESS RELEASES so you can make up your own mind. Facts are facts, but almost everyone has a different opinion about a given situation.

  Email your comments to News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• Commentary –

  

  Commentary – Alternatives to Cable

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – State of the City

  

  Commentary – State of the City

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• Commentary – A Time for Faith

  

  Commentary – A Time for Faith

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• City of Grace

  

  Editorial Christmas Message – Gardner is a City of Grace

  And let me say one more thing especially to those rare individuals who criticize the Mayor and the City Council. Have you seen the Caroling with the Mayor 2024 video? Mayor Michael Nicholson opens with a beautiful Christmas song and ends with a very moving Spanish song as a dedication to his late aunt.

  Your mayor is a man of faith and approaches his daily job with the same passion for doing good. Mike Nicholson has been a go getter working his tail off. Some have criticized him for not calling out individual employees who may not work to expectations – what you don’t know is Catholics are taught to show others grace and let others save face. It’s easy to cast blame – it’s much harder to show grace, and I admire Mayor Nicholson for his practice of doing so. The Mayor also shows grace and respect to other religions. People who work for the City of Gardner leave with their dignity intact and I think it is a quality to celebrate especially at Christmas.

  And with respect to the City Council

  Ever notice earlier this year when there were disruptions? City Council President Kazinskas was polite, said a few words, but took a recess to say stronger words off camera. Elizabeth Kazinskas is respectful to all who come to the City Council Chamber and this is also something to celebrate at Christmas. The City of Gardner was founded as a community of faith so many years ago. I find it very nice to know that the officials in Gardner are people of faith who do the work of the City in the context of kindness. It is not an unfair bias to recognize the good in people when it genuinely exists, as it does in Gardner. From the 11 hard working members of the Gardner City Council, to those who work for the City and the Schools, a business community which for the most part gets very good Google reviews, and the unsung heroes of the non-profits who do so much every single day for those who really need them. Thank you. God Bless You. And Merry Christmas!

  Werner Poegel – Publisher

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• Homeless Commentary

  

  Editorial: Shedding A Light on Greater Gardner Homeless Resources

  The homeless are not forgotten in Gardner. In fact, there are a number of excellent, highly vetted resources in the Chair City and the region who provide help to those who need it. This commentary sheds some light on these organizations. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  For our previous article listing all the names and website links, please CLICK HERE.

  Sometimes the desired resources to help those less fortunate are right in front of you. Consider making a donation to any of these organizations who help so many throughout the year.

  For those who have asked how to donate to the Gardner C.A.C. here is the secure donation link, CLICK HERE.

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• Commentary – Dump the Grump

  

  Commentary – Dump the Grump

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• Commentary – Pearl Harbor

  

  Commentary and Report – Pearl Harbor

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• Commentary – Thanks for the Presidents

  

  Commentary – Thanks for the Presidents

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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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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• 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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• 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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• Commentary – AI Music

  

  Commentary – AI Music

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Election Editorial

  

  Actual guidance on recounts from the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s office, CLICK HERE for the 16 page guide. As the margin was about 4 percent. it appears this election would not be eligible for a recount as difference must be not more than 1/2 percent.

  

  Editorial: Election Results Should be no Surprise and Should Teach Lessons

  Election Day was this week. Some were surprised by the results. They shouldn’t have been. On the National level, the result reflected that the majority of America was not happy with the current administration in Washington because of various problems including border policy , inflation, crime, and foreign policy. Under normal circumstances if Donald Trump did not have some high negatives because of his sometimes offensive approach, the win could have been larger, more like when Ronald Reagan won 49 states. For example, Trump almost won the state of New Jersey, turning a double digit Biden lead in 2020 into a just a 5 point Harris lead in 2024. Trump did win the National popular vote, mainly because of his strategy of asking for votes everywhere. I’m hoping he’ll take this second chance and do well with it.

  On the local level: Voters were faced with the choice of long-time State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik who has a perfect voting attendance record and a long list of achievements including specific help for veterans, but failed to adequately campaign, AND, Bruce Chester, a man who has run 3 times for the job, but has faced rebuke because of his alleged unethical handling of campaign finances and obvious lack of knowledge.

  On Jonathan Zlotnik

  A classic case of a good candidate not campaigning or taking the time to update Social Media to document his achievements. Had he done that, his vote tally would have been higher. Representative Zlotnik did do interviews with Gardner Magazine and WGAW and chronicled his achievements. A Rogue Gardner Facebook Group published many false items about Zlotnik which continued with simply made up falsities after Zlotnik won.

  Zlotnik needs to campaign in his next election and post more items documenting his work. He almost lost because he didn’t do that. And it should be easy as he has a long list of successes and a history of benefiting his district. For example, Zlotnik has worked with the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center and has helped get more housing for veterans. Zlotnik helped get much needed funding for Heywood Hospital and numerous grants for Gardner and area communities. The irony is Zlotnik often works his tail off on behalf of the public rather than wasting time on Social Media. Well, maybe take 5 minutes each day. Just a thought.

  On Bruce Chester

  A classic case of a deeply flawed candidate who took the time to campaign and used Social Media to a certain extent. Despite running for the office 3 times, Chester could not answer very simple questions about legislation during a WGAW interview. Voters reached out to us both anonymously and by name prior to the election. We investigated and Gardner Magazine prepared a complete report using Bruce Chester’s own words to reveal very real concerns and we also published State documents revealing the ethics issues.

  While Chester claims to teach ethics, according to the state of MA, Chester exudes the exact opposite given his ongoing scrutiny and multiple troubling audits by the Office of Campaign Finance. In my opinion, Bruce Chester was by far the weaker candidate. And now, rather than gracefully accepting his loss by about 4 points, some of his more radical supporters are claiming Gardner election fraud, thus attacking the character of the dozens of good people who make elections work in the Chair City. As recounts very rarely change the vote total dramatically, it simply seems like the actions of a sore loser.

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• Commentary – Bruce Chester

  

  Commentary – Bruce Chester

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY

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• Fake Social

  

  Fake and False News Pervasive on Social Media

  Perhaps you’ve seen them – the myriad of false allegations usually made against some very good public officials and sometimes made against this Publisher or other media outlets. Our goal is to not only publish accurate news, but also provide backup documentation such as complete copies of Press Releases and actual AUDIO of meetings, updates, events, and interviews. While we quote a unique circulation of 20,000+, this effort has paid off as the lowest unique circulation in the past year was 25,882 in December 2023. Last month exceeded that by several thousand. AUDIO files have listens in the 1500 to 9000 range per file in a particular month with 100,000 to 150,000 monthly AUDIO file downloads being typically recorded.

  Have a news story idea, comment, or have event information to share? Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com .

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• Commentary – Voting

  

  Commentary – Voting

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – Without a Teleprompter

  

  Commentary – Without a Teleprompter

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Waterford Fact

  

  How do we know bill had no opposition? 1. From the vote itself 2. Bills get posted daily and a legislator could object in advance of a vote. If 10% of House members, or 16 for example would agree to the objection then a roll call vote would be required. While we have no doubt the rants will continue, we hope they will be ignored for the nonsense they’ve been proven to be.

  Editorial: Former Councilor Scott Graves Makes Fool of Himself with Waterford Rants

  For weeks now, former City Councilor Scott Graves has posted various rants regarding Massachusetts approval of the former Waterford Street School usage change to general municipal use. That approval means the City of Gardner can enter into leases with prospective tenants. Graves says there should have been a 2/3 vote because of other concerns. Well, the bill passed unanimously on a voice vote by both the House and Senate. 2/3 would be 67%, the bill got 100%. That’s more than 2/3, Scott! It had NO opposition so a roll call vote was not required. And prior to the legislation being passed, the bill had undergone careful scrutiny by lawyers at the State House. In my opinion, this is a very clear example of egregiously false information allowed by that rogue Gardner Facebook Group.

  The Waterford Community Center is an example of the best of government, coming together for the good of the taxpayers by preserving a building rather letting it fall in disrepair. The good to be done at the Center will benefit Gardner for generations to come.

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• No Teleprompter

  

  
  Editorial: No Teleprompter – A Commentary by Werner Poegel on What’s Great in Gardner

  Listen to this commentary also aired on WGAW on October 12, 2024, on any device, CLICK PLAY

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel comments on what’s great about Gardner at this point in time, focusing on aesthetic improvements, business growth, and various amenities.

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• Heywood 2107

  

  Editorial: Heywood Healthcare on its way towards Positive 200^th anniversary

  In just 83 years, Heywood Hospital will have been in Gardner 200 years. It is likely the future will include building modifications to reflect the advances of the time.

  An exterior with rounded corners utilizing fusion energy for lighting. Operating rooms with state of the art equipment appearing to be straight out of a Star Trek episode. A landing pad near the emergency room for a high-tech flying ambulance. A modern interior with amenities right out of a dream.

  This future will be made possible by a committed team who turned their unrelenting focus on patient care into a victory over a short-term, financial obstacle. A future of many hundreds of babies being born in the Maternity Center. A future of many lives saved in a Surgical Pavilion eventually completed after a short-lived wait and a subsequent expansion in 2044. A future with many varied suites for treatment of the ailments of the time. Parking issues solved with a futuristic expansion utilizing as yet unknown technology. Life-saving stasis chambers in the Emergency Room making even the impossible, possible. To the staff of 1907, today’s team in 2024 and today’s facilities would appear just as amazing.

  A future made possible by the actions of today. Congratulations!

  Werner Poegel, Publisher.

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• GAAMHA 9-27-24

  

  A Commentary – Short Documentary on GAAMHA – Service to the Community

  Commentary and information on this beloved non-profit. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Community Based Day Services…. Employment Services…. Substance Use Disorder Residential Services… Transitional Supporting Housing…. Permanent Housing…. Community Support Services …. Recovering Coaching… Transportation Services

  GAAMHA website, CLICK HERE.

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• Compliments

  

  The Truth Through Compliments – Commentary by Werner Poegel

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Very often, Social Media posts attack others. This commentary is the opposite. A slew of compliments to the people in the corner office at Gardner City Hall, other officials including the City Council, Department Heads, Pastors, Non-profit leaders, Retail Staff, Teachers and School Personnel, and of course local WGAW Hotline Radio host Steve Wendell. Thanks to all of you for all you do. Werner Poegel – Publisher.

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• Commentary – Morning News

  

  Commentary – Morning News

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – Taxes

  

  Commentary – Taxes

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Social Ridiculous

  

  In my opinion, we would be all best served by discussing policy differences rather than disparaging those with whom we disagree. While I took the time to follow this through for about two days, it was consuming. Today the group has less ridiculous posts and I hope that continues.

  Editorial – Journey to Ridiculous – Social Media Undercover

  It was a journey on Social Media to the Ridiculous and I swallowed some of my pride to do it as I wasn’t really undercover using my real name. There’s an “Unbiased, Uncensored” Group in Gardner which has become infiltrated by those posting mostly anti-Trump or anti-Biden/Harris material. I posted the most ridiculous AI photos including Trump and Harris eating lunch and asking if Harris would be a good choice for his Attorney General if he won. I put down Trump by musing that he might be Harris’ landscaper if she won. I posted the pic of multiple Trumps speculating that if you saw more than one you had Trump Derangement Syndrome. And the most ridiculous of all, I speculated that a President Harris would have a Chinese Chief of Staff.

  Here’s what I discovered. People on either side of the issue are in general not debating policy. They are demeaning others simply for having a different opinion and that is wrong. With about half of the country supporting one candidate and the other half supporting the other, you can’t say that everything about the other side is awful. That’s just not true. But compiling an accurate list of attributes is difficult as networks like Fox are very much pro Trump and anti-Harris with the other extreme being MSNBC which praises Harris and ranks on Trump. In general, Trump’s policies are not heavily criticized as it is his demeanor and character which is most often negatively assailed. In general, Harris’s policies are tied to the Biden record which gets mixed reviews, but she gets praised for her lower key approach.

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• Commentary 8-30-24

  

  Commentary: Fentanyl, the Border, and Drug Overdose Deaths

  A commentary with Publisher Werner Poegel. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Featuring the Music of: Ekoh-Fentanyl, the Beatles -Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, Eric Clapton – Cocaine, The Border – Little River Band, and Huey Lewis and the News – I Want a New Drug.

  Need help? Call the Suicide and Crisis Line at 988 on any phone. Someone overdosing? Use narcan and call 911 for help.

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• Commentary – Hold Your Nose

  

  Commentary – Hold Your Nose

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Commentary – Puddle of Nonsense

  

  Commentary – Puddle of Nonsense – National Politics

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Magazine Milestone

  

  Gardner Magazine Starts 25th Year

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel stated, “Gardner Magazine was started as GreaterGardner.net on August 4, 2000 with the Gardner Magazine name added later. We are proud to serve a circulation exceeding 20,000+ unique households. Businesses wishing to establish an advertising presence with our publication may leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. We can handle almost any desired ad format whether text, visual, AUDIO, or VIDEO.”

  Are you a reader and wish to support us? We do not charge any subscription fees but do accept donations via this secure paypal link, CLICK HERE.

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• Commentary – Gardner’s Welcome Mat

  

  Commentary – Gardner’s Welcome Mat

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A welcome mat to businesses. The merits of advertising.

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• Commentary – Complaint Xeroxing

  

  Commentary – Complaint Xeroxing

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Commentary features a lengthy statement by Gardner MA City Councilor Judy Mack.

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• Path from Here

  

  The late, famous newscaster Walter C. voiced this editorial for us. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Editorial Commentary – Path from Here – the Racetrack

  BayState Racing LLC submitted a revised Host Community Agreement in which it substantially increased the financial rewards for Gardner. It answered every citizen and City Council mentioned concern in a considered, respectful manner. Accordingly, out of fairness, the City Council should allow more time for review. Certainly there are emotions involved whether it’s animal care or water, but in reality, those two issues have already been solved in concept and will be objectively addressed in any mandated obligations of the project proponent. What’s left is a bias against horse racing and/or gambling shared by many. But is that fair? Think of this: I personally don’t like animal racing, gambling, lottery tickets, alcohol sales, cigarette sales, cannabis establishments, and motorcycles. But, with that said, a consistent application of fairness would give this group due consideration. And who knows, upon review, even the staunchest opponents might just see “all the answers” and “all the rewards” for Gardner. Werner Poegel, Publisher.

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• Route 140 Survivor

  

  A Route 140 Survivor – Editorial by Werner Poegel

  Last Friday afternoon July 26, 2024 just after 4pm, I embarked on one of the scariest adventures of my life. I went on Route 140. Turning left from Green Street, I managed to skillfully avoid oncoming cars by waiting, waiting, waiting, waiting, and waiting. Once on the road, I felt safer, confident in my vigilance. The Horse Farm was a short flash in my view at the right. I turned around at the convenience store, headed back towards Gardner and took some photos, hoping some would come out ok because I couldn’t look through the camera while driving. Back on Green Street, I had a sigh of relief. I was a Route 140 survivor. To all those thinking there’s traffic on Route 140, what are you talking about?

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• Commentary – 5 Years

  

  Commentary – 5 Years

  Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• 5 Years

  

  A Commentary on the Big Event in Gardner of July 15, 2024

  Publisher Werner Poegel reflects on the courage of the man who has made a difference in the City of Gardner MA. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Completely by accident, this piece about the first 4 years ended up being 4 minutes and 44 seconds long.

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• Commentary 7-21-24

  

  Making Sense of Information Swirling About – Horse Racetrack Commentary

  A Commentary on the Horse Racetrack with Werner Poegel. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Explaining the parties to the proposed transaction of land at 827 Green Street in Gardner. —- Putting Care of Horses Issue in perspective —- Putting watershed issue in perspective —- explaining informal meeting and public hearing scheduled for July 23rd —- Dispelling falsehoods about public hearing being one-sided. Truth: All sides of issue welcome.

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• Commentary 7-12-24

  

  Common Sense on the Racetrack – Commentary by Werner Poegel

  Putting a little perspective back in to the discussion. Exploring the Emotional, Ideological, and Objective reasons for and against. Encouraging treating all involved with respect. We go over the various particulars with an honest assessment of the road forward. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Fake Social Meda

  

  This editorial on pdf, CLICK HERE.

  Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Social Media Hits new Low in Gardner MA

  This week I published an accurate report on the disruptive conduct of Kimberly Blake and others which occurred the night of the Gardner City Council meeting. Earlier in May, I posted an accurate article about Blake’s illegal food pantry. Fast forward to now: All week there have been false allegations levied against local public officials leading up to Kimberly Blake and Paul DeMeo urging people to go to City Hall to somehow take their City back. It’s a small group which has been misled, but it is unfortunate for the City. There’s nothing to take back. The City is well managed and has had perfect State and Federal Audits for 4 years. Other posts have shown court reports about cases in which the people have been found innocent or acquitted, all in an effort to besmirch the reputations of some very good people. False allegations have been made about abuse, you name it, they’ve put up the nonsense posts. The owner of WGAW has been attacked verbally simply for reporting accurately on what is going on. And the latest, someone posted nonsense about me, the Publisher of Gardner Magazine stating falsely that I was not able to rent out an apartment at my residence due to some bad act. Nothing like that ever occurred. I can rent it out anytime I choose, but currently it’s used for a family member and storage and badly needs updating before I could get market rent for it. I urge anyone who really wants to be involved in change to run for City Council, the 6 top vote getters are elected to Councilors at large. That would be the right way to do it, not making up false things about good people.

  Werner Poegel. Publisher

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• Commentary – Excellence

  

  Editorial Commentary – Excellence in Gardner Government and Schools

  I want to tell you very specifically why I am so proud and honored to report on the City of Gardner and its dedicated Team. Gardner has changed for the better in the last 4 years. The Gardner City Council does an excellent job of oversight. Gardner Schools have become excellent. Gardner is welcoming to new residents, business, and industry. Listen to the commentary on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Blake 5-17-2

  UPDATE May 17, 2024 – Simple Explanation of Issue – 1. Food Pantry not allowed by State Law in residential area 2. If home was somehow deemed OK for food pantry, permits must first be obtained and inspections must be conducted prior to opening 3. No approvals of any kind were sought or obtained. 4. Person in this instance appears to have known opening was considered unlawful and proceeded anyway. 5. Idea of food pantry to help those in need a wonderful idea. 6. Even those with good ideas must follow the law. 7. Person was not disparaged by Gardner Magazine or WGAW as claimed by Blake. 8. Mayor Nicholson not involved at all as claimed by Blake.. 9. Blake was not even mentioned by Gardner Magazine or WGAW until it was falsely claimed she had been disparaged. (see original article simply referencing a Gardner resident)

  

  Listen to the editorial on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  EDITORIAL: Kimberly Blake Making False Statements Yet Again – this time about Gardner Magazine, WGAW, and the Mayor

  Kimberly Blake has announced that she is above the law and will open a food pantry at 25 Baker Street in Gardner despite warnings against doing so stating, “I’m aware that the city has plans to try and fine me or have my pantry taken down.” All of us including those who want to help others have to follow the rules. In Massachusetts, according to Massachusetts State law, a food pantry is not allowed in an area of residential homes. And where it is allowed, various inspections and permits must be obtained prior to opening. One of the reasons for certain activities and businesses not being allowed in residential areas has to do with the obvious problem of parking and the effect on neighbors. We checked, Blake has not sought appropriate permits from the City. However, she has falsely attacked Gardner Magazine and WGAW stating, “Gardner Magazine and WGAW can continue to write disparaging articles, I’m not worried.” This publication wrote an article and did not mention Blake by name. We spoke with WGAW and they have simply attempted to post information about what’s not allowed under Massachusetts law.

  And then, as usual she is attacking Gardner Mayor Nicholson when she knows he isn’t even involved in the independent actions the Board of Health or the Gardner Building Department may take. Helping people is always a great idea. But, in my opinion, no matter how great the idea sounds, we are all still subject to the law. Imagine if everyone in the City opened up something wherever they would like, ignoring Zoning, ignoring requirements for inspections. It would be chaos and we would all be unsafe. We all have to follow the law. We can’t make up our own laws when we feel like it. The laws are there to protect all residents. And current food pantries are inspected and follow all sanitary laws and requirements and have safeguards in place. Why Blake thinks she is above the law? Who knows. In my opinion, it Makes no sense.

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• Crazy Social Media

  

  From the Publisher: Gardner Magazine has been publicly criticized on Social Media for its positive reporting on Mayor Nicholson, the Gardner City Council, and the Gardner Team of great municipal and school employees. Our response is simple: It’s not our fault they’re doing a good job. But it is somewhat fun to report on all the successes of the past 4 years.

  Gardner MA Social Media Goes Crazy – WGAW’s Steve Wendell Responds

  Since 2011, WGAW’s Steve Wendell has interviewed the Gardner Mayor nearly every single week on Hotline Radio which airs Saturdays from noon to 2pm, most recently interviewing Mayor Michael Nicholson for the last 4 years. Wendell sees the Facebook lies being circulated right now and decided to speak up. Listen to the comments from Steve Wendell aired Saturday May 11, 2024 on any device. CLICK PLAY

  Ironically, former mayoral candidate Kimberly Blake often chimes in with comments about Mayor Nicholson, but as Wendell states, “She was the one who actually set up that illegal children’s bingo and basically was fined by the state…and I don’t think she gave back the money to the people who came to the children’s bingo, no refunds were made.” During the campaign last year, Blake often made wild statements including a false one about a portrait, CLICK HERE.

  Comment from Publisher Werner Poegel: Opposing viewpoints on ideas are the hallmark of our political system as is free speech. However, the false allegations being perpetrated on one particular local Facebook Group are simply made up nonsense. We had a previous commentary regarding possible criminal consequences for the false statements, CLICK HERE.

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• Facebook Commentary

  

  Civil and Criminal Penalties – Commentary on Problem Facebook Posts

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel with a commentary on problem Facebook posts. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  In my opinion, if there are local Facebook posts which make false allegations or harmful statements without evidence it may cost admins or members civil liability. However, it doesn’t stop there. If you use social media platforms to track, monitor, or harass individuals causing them significant emotional distress that’s called cyberstalking, and that’s a crime. If you intentionally and repeatedly make posts aimed at causing distress or fear to another person including threats, abusive messages, making derogatory comments, or spreading false information with the intention of harm, that’s criminal harassment. If you conspire with others to do this and have discussions about how to “get this guy”, that’s a criminal conspiracy. And if you go after people who object to your posts or comments or perhaps as an admin suspend or remove a group member, that could be criminal witness intimidation. Think before you post.

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• Editorial – Facebook

  

  Facebook Postings Can Lead to Huge Damage Awards – Even Loss of House

  The hypothetical situation: A local Facebook Group makes egregious false statements suggesting falsely that individuals have committed crimes, even repeating similar false statements over a period of months in an attempt to make false claims sound legit. When confronted, it doubles down on the postings which only provides further evidence of actionable malice.

  HUGE Awards for damages: The law does not look fondly on actions like this. The offense is Facebook defamation and it can lead to some huge jury awards or large settlements. A post made about a woman got her a settlement of $500,000. Details here: In another case, “venting” on Facebook led to a $65,000 defamation judgment and liability for 3^rd party comments. Details Here: A $75,000 defamation award for false allegations against a female prison officer: Details Here. Many more examples are out there. It is not an amusing situation at all as unfortunately there are some who believe false accusations. However, it is clear, in the end it could cost a Facebook Admin his/her house and those who chime in might have to shell out thousands.

  Bottom Line: Unless someone has actually been arrested for a crime and you have an official law enforcement Press Release to prove it, it’s never a good idea to use Facebook to accuse anyone of anything illegal. Gardner Magazine, for example, does not customarily publish the names of those arrested, the names of crime victims, or the names of accident victims. That way, for example, an innocent person is not victimized by an internet article which never goes away and a family does not have to relive a tragedy which keeps coming up with an internet search. We will publish an official Press Release as appropriate. Maintaining the dignity of individuals is important. Unfortunately today, many people are victimized by those getting a thrill out of getting the reactions of others by simply making things up. Fortunately, that thrill eventually costs them – big time!

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• Scales of Justice

  

  Commentary – Scales of Justice by Werner Poegel

  This commentary is also posted on our national AUDIO site, PoeDM.net. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Poegel speaks about Asset Forfeiture, Pretrial detention, Speeding tickets in Foreign Countries, Justice Delayed, Court of Public Opinion, Unfair targeting of law enforcement, weaponization of justice, and the balance of public safety and individual rights.

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• Happy Puppy

  

  Editorial: A Salute to Dogs on National Puppy Day in Greater Gardner MA

  Dog owners know the joy of having a dog. “Man’s best friend” – as dogs are often called, provide companionship, comfort, and service. There are the public examples of Comfort Dog Sully who works with the Gardner Fire Department and K-9 Rocky who assists the Gardner Police Department and caught a burglar on his first day.

  The private examples are the millions of dogs who have brought joy to the lives of so many people. But all dogs, like people, start off as small dogs. That is why we want to properly honor National Puppy Day on March 23, 2024. There’s is no love like Puppy Love. And the adult dogs they will soon become, one of God’s greatest gifts to our world.

  Often, dogs in the area share much joy in socializing with each other at the Dog Park located at Pulaski Park off either Wright Street or Charbonneau Street in Gardner.

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• The Twenty

  

  A wonderful human lesson shared by City Councilor Paul Tassone

  You are all special. Listen to this short story passed along on Facebook by Gardner MA City Councilor Paul Tassone. Listen on any Device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Freebies 2024

  

  Instruction on Being a Greater Gardner MA FREEBIE “King” or “Queen” in 2024

  Publisher Werner Poegel with an informative commentary on things which are FREE and how to save on the rest. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

  Earn FREE TVs just by saving on coffee. Get your cell service for half. Save on electricity and water. Enjoy FREE local amenities, FREE transportation, FREE concerts, FREE car washes. Borrow all sorts of media for FREE and take advantage of FREE radio.

  Will you give yourself the title of FREEBIE “King” or “Queen”? Listen to our commentary and save thousands every year without giving up anything!

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• Common Sense

  

  A Commentary on Energy – The Border – Cyber Security with Publisher Werner Poegel

  In this commentary, I advocate for a Secretary of Common Sense. I suggest we decide on a border policy that we want and stick with it. I’m in favor of a common sense Energy Policy which protects the United States and leads to the future we want by utilizing our own resources to our advantage and doing the research and work to get where we choose to be. Common sense regarding climate change. And resources we need to protect us against Cyber Attacks. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Fictional Theater 2

  

  Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater – Episode 2 – The Confessional

  Don and Joe are back, this time in the confessional with a few honest admissions. Will the former rivals get along? What secrets will they spill? Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

  No real politicians participated in this work of fiction.

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• Magazine Tour

  

  Famous Voices “Mel” and “Orson” with an AUDIO tour of Gardner Magazine

  Can you recognize the imitation of the famous voice doing the AUDIO tour of Gardner Magazine? The tour explains how and where to find certain items and how to use them. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  What if it were possible for the the late Orson Welles to voice this instead? Well, here he is. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  These voice imitations are made possible through the advances in Artificial Intelligence technology.

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• 1000 Videos

  

  Gardner MA Reaches Milestone of 1000 Videos

  The City of Gardner YouTube page has reached a milestone of publishing 1000 videos as of February 21, 2024.

  The City of Gardner is noted for its transparency in government, providing videos of meetings, complete meeting packets, and an open online checkbook.

  Gardner YouTube Channel, —- CLICK HERE.

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel prepared this commentary about the “City of Transparency”, Gardner, Massachusetts.

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• Interesting Rules

  

  The Mayor is required each year to issue a proclamation proclaiming Patriot’s Day as Colonel Thomas Gardner Day. From the City Code, “Whereas history is prologue, and it is important that our children be cognizant of our past, especially the early sacrifices that established the freedom and democracy we enjoy today, annually, on or before the 19th of April, the Mayor shall officially designate Patriots Day as Colonel Thomas Gardner Day in the City of Gardner and shall cause a proclamation to be issued and read in all the schools of Gardner, to honor this patriot who died of wounds received during the Battle of Bunker Hill and for whom our beloved community was named.” Did you know that Gardner died at Bunker Hill on July 3, 1775 and his funeral services were attended by General George Washington. City Code

  

  

  Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Interesting Rules in the Chair City You May Not Know About

  There are usually rules to cover almost everything and the City of Gardner is no exception. However, we thought it would be interesting to highlight some you might not know or think about.

  Interesting Rules in Gardner
  Giving your dog junk food may subject you to a fine. (unless it’s in addition to good food) “No owner of any dog shall fail to provide such dog with a sufficient quantity of wholesome, nutritious food and potable water; adequate shelter from inclement weather; a humane means of exercise; and the necessary veterinary care upon sickness, disease or injury.” City Code
  The City Engineer is the official authorized to issue numbers for houses and other buildings. Numbers must be at least 3 inches in height. If you don’t display a house number properly, you could be fined $20. City Code.
  Every March the Mayor appoints someone to measure lumber in the City. City Code
  The Chief of Police is the “Keeper of the Lockup” City Code
  The City Clerk is the Keeper of the City Seal. All deeds given by the City shall be sealed with the City Seal. City Code
  You can’t wear roller skates or user roller blades in the City of Gardner while visiting a cemetery. Fine is $5. If you get caught 3 or more times, the fine increases to $25 each time. City Code
  After you bring something to the dump, it becomes the property of the City of Gardner. So don’t throw away your gold bars by mistake. You can’t get them back! City Code
  You need a permit for a harangue in any street or public way within the City. A harangue is defined as lecturing someone at length in an aggressive and critical manner. Therefore, parents pay attention. If you’re going to lecture your child at length in public, get that permit first. It’s also needed for a parade or a public address. City Code
  Only 1 temporary storage unit can be placed on a property at any one time. So no more getting 10 dumpsters at a time folks! However, if the area is zoned industrial, the rule doesn’t apply. City Code
  If a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces dies, the U.S. Flag shall be flown at half mast on all City Buildings until burial. City Code
  Like to have a yard sale every week? Can’t do it. You’re limited to 4 days each year between the hours of 8am and 4pm. Register at least 48 hours prior to the sale with the Building Commissioner. And you can’t sell stuff for a neighbor, only your own stuff is allowed. However, recognized charitable, religious, or benevolent organizations are exempt. City Code
  You are not allowed to offend someone in public. “No person shall address any offensive, derisive or annoying word to any person who is lawfully in any street in the City of Gardner, or any other public place, nor deride, offend or annoy him, or prevent him from pursuing his lawful business, occupation or duty.” The fine is $50. City Code
  Graffiti Removal must be Supervised by the Police Chief or someone the chief designates. Fines for placing graffiti on property carries steep fines. City Code
  There is a list of streets on which any vehicle exceeding 2 ½ tons in weight can’t go except for local deliveries. The fine for not complying is $25 City Code
  You can’t be in a City Park, recreational area, cemetery, or land owned by the City of Gardner from sunset until 8am of the following day unless you get permission from the Director of Public Works. So don’t forget your “Dane Arnold Letter.” However, if the land is under the control or jurisdiction of the School Committee, you need written authorization to go there (from the School Committee) between the hours of 8pm and 7am. Given they meet about once a month, you’d have to plan ahead. City Code

• Good Things

  

  Keep up on the “So Many Good Things” every week with the Mayor’s Updates, City Council, School Committee, various Committees and Commissions, and our interviews.

  EDITORIAL: So Many Good Things in the City of Gardner MA

  So many good things are happening in the City of Gardner. Did you know that the Waterford Street School Community Center Project is proceeding. Soon the City will have a great Community Center instead of another failing building, AND, it will have an income stream from tenants. Did you know that at this week’s Appointments Committee meeting that mounds of praise were given to the Council on Aging and Senior Center Director Mike Ellis? And the star of the week, Mayor Michael Nicholson whose proposal for the City Council to approve $60k for a 3^rd party grant contractor a while ago may pay back 250 times in the form of a RAISE Grant?

  I am overwhelmed by a feeling of great gratitude.

  The City of Gardner is run by some very good decent people who have shown in their words, deeds, and successes how much they care about the City. Each Committee of the City Council has proven invaluable and skilled in their oversight. The Mayor has excelled in his leadership. City Employees go above and beyond every single day. Yes, there are So Many GOOD Things happening in the City of Gardner. Sometimes, you just have to say it!

  So Many GOOD Things, and I am grateful to write about a City with a great big heart of community spirit. Thank you for this great feeling of joy.

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• Insta Minutes

  

  Editorial: Again, More Nonsense Allegations by Pauly Potato

  Meeting Minutes: The Gardner City Council Meeting Agenda and Packet for February 5, 2024 contains an an Open Meeting Law violation complaint made by Paul Demeo, known colloquially as “Pauly Potato.” He alleges that the meeting minutes are not provided in a timely manner. He complains about Executive Session minutes not being available.

  We’d like to point out what we call the “Insta Minutes”. Meetings are posted within 24 hours via YouTube videos. Click on Show Transcript and you’ve got Instant Minutes in text of the meeting. Now maybe Pauly Potato wants them in a specific font and maybe even on parchment paper using a specific ink, but come on, in a City which goes above and beyond in its transparency, enough is enough. Every one of these ridiculous nonsense complaints simply costs the taxpayers money. And if something isn’t shared with the public because it’s still a pending legal matter, well, that’s how you’re supposed to handle things.

  Complete City Council Agenda and Packet for February 5, 2024, CLICK HERE.

  “Insta-Minutes” Procedure: Go to the City of Gardner page on YouTube, CLICK HERE. Choose a video. Click on Show Transcript. Highlight the text. Paste in a document. Save it and/or print it. Instantly!

  Salacious Allegations: On a Gardner Community Group, some very serious falsehoods about a City official were allowed to remain for a short period of time on February 4th until the Admin, Kimberly Blake was contacted by legal counsel. It is disgusting what that group has allowed to be posted over the last year. Those who commented to Blake that the post should be taken down because it was slander were actually banned from the group. You will recall that Gardner Magazine had to call out various falsehoods stated by Blake during the campaign. This behavior is not helpful. Here is an article from September on a certain portrait. CLICK HERE.

  Waterford False Allegations: A new thread in the same group was started regarding the Waterford Street School conversion, under the misrepresentation of showing evidence of something improper. Nothing could be further from the truth. Even the posted emails, (if even genuine) when taken in the proper context show communications about how the City should proceed legally. What I don’t understand is this: If the Mayor of a City seeks advice about how to proceed properly on any matter and then does so to conform with the requirements of the law, isn’t that a good thing? And by the way, in a recent interview, Mayor Nicholson revealed that about $700,000 has already been spent. The building is well on its way towards becoming an awesome Community Center. And by the way, the City has an Open Checkbook – any citizen can see exactly what checks have been written going back an entire decade. From our interview with Mayor Nicholson, CLICK HERE.

  Here’s the irony: At the same time certain elements attempt to disparage its officials, the City of Gardner has established a great reputation for doing things the right way. I understand the disappointment some people feel about not being elected to the office of Mayor. But that’s no excuse for the continual false attacks and made-up scandals.

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• January 20th

  

  What does January 20, 2024 mean to Greater Gardner MA?

  January 20^th is 1 year away from the next Presidential Inauguration and it will be an interesting year to be sure. But what else is today? It is National No Phones at Home Day, Take a Walk Outdoors Day, National Coffee Break Day, National Cheese Lovers Day, International Day of Acceptance, National Camcorder Day, National Buttercrunch Day, National Disc Jockey Day, National Use Your Gift Card Day, and Penguin Awareness Day. Listen to our report on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  With so many days on one day, it’s easy to figure out that somebody or some organization simply thought these days into existence. Next year, they’ll exist again. On January 20, 2025, all the talk will be about who we will be inaugurated as the next President of the United States. Yes, it will be a most interesting year ahead.

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• Pennington Search

  

  This is one of the photos which we have enhanced which more accurately shows Aaron Pennington. Some of the other media reports have gone back to an original photo which law enforcement subsequently updated. Of course, today his appearance could be completely different.

  Editorial: Law Enforcement Has Been in Continual Search for Pennington

  Media Reports on January 5^th and January 6^th about a “resumed search” for Aaron Pennington are at worst somewhat inaccurate and at the very least incomplete. Law enforcement we have spoken to over the past several months have indicated that all avenues have been explored regarding the location of the fugitive suspected in the murder of his wife. The search is local, state, national, and international, and just because some local lead is pursued does not change the fact: they haven’t found him yet and they are looking everywhere using every local, state, and Federal tool at their disposal. He might be found tomorrow or sometime down the line. But rest assured, they are looking for him. And the best way of catching someone is not to reveal all the information which is known. That is the procedure followed in every fugitive hunt. Law enforcement is much more capable, talented, vigilant, and on the task than it is often given credit for and we are very thankful for the job they do every day.

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• Homeless Help

  

  A Christmas Editorial – Show Love for Those Without a Home

  While not of the magnitude as some other places and not as visible, homelessness is a very real local issue. I sent a message to City officials suggesting some Tiny Houses be located in the field at Waterford and that former district offices be used as a common building with bathrooms, kitchen etc. This type of effort has been successful in the very small number of places it has been tried. The Tiny homes generally have a bed, some limited electricity for lighting, and heat or cooling. If my proposal doesn’t make sense, there is one that does and I urge everyone to take the issue seriously until we come up with a viable solution whether funded by grants or by the City. History teaches us that taking on a problem head-on saves money in the long run.

  At Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is also a time in my opinion to act upon His desire that we show love for our fellow humans. Helping homeless people is one way we can do just that.

  John 13:34 –  “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”  Merry Christmas to all of you.

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• Share City

  

  Editorial: Chair City – Gardner MA will always be the Share City

  While changed in some respects, Gardner has been called the “Chair City” for many years. The number of chairs made in Gardner has declined, but Gardner will always be the Chair City, or in the modern vernacular, the “Share City”. A City to be proud of, where great ideas are born and shared, and resources are shared. Whether it’s the Mayor’s office, a City Council meeting, a School Committee meeting, or any number of gatherings where people talk and ‘share’. There are always chairs in the room and that simple device will always be a needed component of future success.

  The Chair City is Gardner’s legacy and the “Share City” is Gardner’s Future. Great people moving forward together by sharing common goals and a love for one another. The “Share City”.

  Whether you spell it “Chair” or “Share”, the Chair City of Gardner will always be the “Share City” of proud distinction. To those who say “formerly the Chair City” I say bah humbug… Some things which change sound exactly the same. The Chair City is the Share City.

  Werner Poegel, Publisher

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• Mashed Potato

  

  The Story of Pauly Potato – How a young Mashed Potato became a Hateful Facebook Admin

  In the City of Gardner, there are a number of responsible Facebook Groups. And then there’s one, and the Admin is Pauly Potato.

  No matter what the issue, the group is anti-Mayor, anti-business, anti-City Council, and anti-disagreement. Dare to disagree with the admin, you get banned.

  Gardner Magazine has been attacked many times by the group’s admin. And every time he does it, our readership grows. People know the truth when they see it. After all, we post actual Press Releases and the actual AUDIO of meetings. We hope the recent election for Mayor in Gardner stops some of the nonsense and that Pauly Potato looks out more for the interests of Gardner than for getting a cheap thrill at someone else’s expense.

  Maybe those hot peppers will help him see the light. Remember, there is good in everyone.

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• Birthday 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.

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• Explaining Confusion

  

  

  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.

  

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• Marijuana Deadly

  

  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.

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• Big Picture

  

  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!

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• Ethics – Transparency

  

  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.

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• Flowers

  

  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.

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• Parcels – Rumors

  

  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.

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• Racetrack Angst

  

  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?

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• Circ July 23

  

  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.

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• 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.

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