Even More Greater Gardner MA News

News Around Greater Gardner MA (next 120 stories)

For the most recent Top 40 stories, CLICK HERE. Stories 41-160, click here —- This page stories 161-280 — Stories 281-400 click here —- Stories 401-520 click here

• Public Service (8/6/2025)

  

  Excessive Water Use by Various Properties Brings Owners In and Leads to Discussion.

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

  AUDIO cuts off because Video ended abruptly.

  The faucet drips. The toilet leaks. Or there’s another leak. The water bill comes and the much larger bill is a surprise. Most of the time, the ratepayer will be faced with paying the high bill, but it’s worth checking with the Public Service Committee. For example, if a leak does not cause extra sewage usage, the sewer portion may be abated. In any case, more time may be given to pay the bill.

  At a Public Service Committee meeting of July 31, 2025, there were 8 properties listed. A few came in to talk to the committee. Details below:

  A homeowner came in for a water bill abatement after having his property thoroughly evaluated by a 3^rd party. DPW Director Dane Arnold suggested the homeowner have the Water Dept. go back to the house to take a look at what the potential problem is and then come back to a subsequent Public Service Committee meeting. The homeowner questioned the amount of the water shown as being used. — A representative for 25 Main Street had a request for water service which was quickly approved. — Another person came in with a $6500 water bill at a childcare facility the 123 Grown Center at 838 West Broadway in Gardner. Ratepayer was complaining that there was no immediate notification of high usage. Director Dane Arnold said there was still an issue with the property as shown by recent reading. Ratepayer is responsible usage. Recommendation was for a plumber to take a look at the property.

  
  There was a short discussion on accessory dwelling units. Dane Arnold and Rob Oliva recommended a policy that separate water and sewer be established for an accessory dwelling unit to avoid potential issues.

  ---

• Greenwood Pool Closed (8/6/2025)

  

  200 Pound Motor Sidelines Greenwood Pool Until Repairs are Completed.

  The Gardner MA Greenwood Pool will be closed until further notice for repairs.

  Gardner City Hall posted: “Greenwood Pool closed until further notice for repairs”

  Jessica Francis, Head Lifeguard and Certified Pool Operator told us that: “The motor from the filter pump needed to be repaired. It has been taken out to be worked on in the shop. Pool will reopen when pump is repaired and reinstalled. It is about 2-3 feet wide and a couple hundred pounds. Royal Steam Heater pulled out the pump and Morse Electric is repairing the motor.”

  ---

• Particulates in Air (8/5/2025)

  

  Air is unhealthy for sensitive children and adults, such as those with asthma, lung or heart disease, and older adults. Sensitive children and adults should limit prolonged outdoor activity.

  Fine Particulates Plague Air Quality – Unhealthy for Sensitive Individuals

  Air quality in the Greater Gardner area continues to be affected by the fine particulates from Canadian wildfires. As of 10pm on August 5th, the level was at 106 which represents “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” This is due to Canadian wildfire smoke mixing down to the ground level. Highest concentrations are expected to be in western Massachusetts.

  For the latest interactive map from the EPA, CLICK HERE.

  The AirData Air Quality Monitors app is a mapping application available on the web and on mobile device that displays monitor locations and monitor-specific information. It also allows the querying and downloading of data daily and annual summary data. Monitors for all criteria pollutants (CO, Pb, NO2, Ozone, PM10, PM2.5, and SO2), PM2.5 Chemical Speciation Network monitors, and more. CLICK for Interactive Map.

  ---

• Concert 8-9 (8/5/2025)

  

  Summer Concert Series Featuring “The Long Run” playing Eagles classics

  Saturday August 9, 2025 from 6-8pm, the stage at Monument Park will be transformed in to a trip down memory lane from decades ago with the Central Massachusetts band, “The Long Run”. The Band plays music of the Eagles and is made up of: RICK BARRETT – guitars, keyboards, vocals – CARL BONGIOVI – bass – KATHY FINN – keyboards, vocals – GLENN JACKSON – guitars, vocals – DAN KIROUAC – drums, vocals.

  Gardner Magazine has a really cool Deep Dive podcast for you all about the Eagles. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ADMISSION IS FREE!

• Council 8-4-25 (8/5/2025)

  

  Informal Meeting Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE

  Regular Meeting Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE

  For previous City Council meetings, visit our Gardner City Council page, CLICK HERE.

  Informal meeting with MART and Regular Meeting

  Because of the absence of Council President Tyros, Alek Dernalowicz was elected Council President Pro Tem for each of the meetings. The Gardner MA City Council met in an informal session with representatives from MART. The meeting had been requested by Councilor Karen Hardern who had voiced concerns about ridership and safety. Following a presentation by MART, there was a complete question and answer session. Our AUDIO has the complete meeting. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Charts focused on ridership data and after hours services data. If you wish to view the charts spoken about during the presentation, the Youtube video is your best source. Gardner City Councilors asked questions about routes, safety, and customer frustration when the bus leaves prior to picking up riders who may be waiting inside a structure.

  The Gardner MA City Council held its regular meeting following the informal session. Listen to the regular meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Various appointments were certified by the Council. — Gardner Zoning amendment passed unaimously and will now allow Blessington Corporation expansion as their industrial zoned lot was located next to land not previously zoned for that purpose.

  Council Elizabeth Kazinskas had concerns about the revolving account for Lifeline. Listen separately to her comments here about the City taking on the role of a “massive for-profit company” and the possible associated legal liabilities. She stated she is still waiting for answers. Listen to the councilor’s comments on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Kazinskas proposed amending the revolving account amount limit to $10,000 instead of $20,000. Councilor Brooks stated that the monthly expenditures total about $18,000 for the year so the $20,000 is close to that. Councilor Heglin supported the $10,000. Amended motion carried. Councilor Mack said “I just don’t think this is a business the City should be in”. The motion did pass and the revolving account was approved.

  The renewal of the veterans service agreement with Ashby was approved. —- $10,000 was approved so the interim Building Commissioner’s work can be paid .— Jennifer Dymek was once again elected to Treasurer and Collector of Taxes for another 3 year term. —– In Councilor remarks: Councilor Brooks and Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas remembered Attorney John Flick who recently passed away. Councilor Heglin recognized Josh Cormier for bringing the film industry to the City.

  ---

• Hazard Mitigation (8/5/2025)

  

  City of Gardner Emergency Management page, CLICK HERE.

  Local Ordinances affecting Emergency Management in Gardner as adopted by the Gardner City Council, CLICK HERE.

  State of Massachusetts resources on local mitigation planning, CLICK HERE.

  City of Gardner Updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan – COMPLETE COVERAGE

  The City of Gardner is updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan which is in place to reduce risks to the public and infrastructure from natural hazards. Gardner Magazine has extensive resources including 3 Deep Dives and links to various comprehensive documents for your review.

  The City of Gardner put out a Press Release: “The City of Gardner is updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan, and we want to hear from YOU! This plan helps us identify and reduce the risks from natural hazards like flooding, severe storms, and heavy snow. It also ensures Gardner stays eligible for federal funding to support these efforts. Here’s how you can get involved: 1. Take the Survey. Tell us about your experiences with natural hazards and what matters most to you when it comes to safety and preparedness. Open until October 10, 2025 at midnight! 2. Attend the Public Meeting Learn more about the plan, the risks we face, and help us prioritize actions to keep Gardner resilient. Date: September 18, 2025 Time: 6–7 PM RSVP here: Virtual option: Link coming soon. A draft of the plan will be posted soon for public comment, stay tuned! Your input helps us plan smarter and respond stronger. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or community stakeholder, your voice helps shape a safer, stronger Gardner. Let’s plan for a more resilient future, together.

  

  Gardner Hazard Mitigation Plan

  Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” discussion podcast on the Gardner Hazard Mitigation Plan. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Background: The City of Gardner, MA, like other municipalities, is required to have a Hazard Mitigation Plan to be eligible for FEMA funding for disaster recovery and mitigation. This plan helps identify potential hazards, assess risks, and develop strategies to reduce the impact of these hazards. 10 Years ago, the 611 page plan was developed. Here is the Gardner portion, CLICK HERE.

  

  Montachusett Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan

  
  Gardner, along with other communities in the Montachusett Region, has been working with the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) on hazard mitigation planning. Complete 611 page Montachusett Hazard Mitigation Plan from 2015, CLICK HERE. Gardner Magazine has a Deep Dive on the complete 611 page plan. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  

  FEMA published a Local Mitigation Planning Policy Guide on April 11, 2025, CLICK HERE. —- Fact Sheet, CLICK HERE.

  Gardner Magazine has a DEEP DIVE on this extensive plan. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Key Elements of a Hazard Mitigation Plan: Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards (natural and human-caused) and assessing their potential impact on the community. Capability Assessment: Evaluating the community’s ability to respond to and recover from these hazards, including existing resources and infrastructure. Mitigation Strategy: Developing specific actions and projects to reduce the risk and impact of hazards. Plan Maintenance: Establishing procedures for regularly updating and reviewing the plan. Gardner’s Specific Efforts: Gardner participates in the Montachusett Region Hazard Mitigation Plan, which involves updating hazard maps, assessing vulnerabilities of critical facilities, and identifying mitigation measures. The city has also been actively involved in developing a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Plan, focusing on climate resilience. Public participation is crucial, with opportunities for residents to provide input on the plan and its implementation. Why is it important? Eligibility for Funding: Hazard Mitigation Plans are required for communities to be eligible for FEMA funding for disaster recovery and mitigation. Increased Awareness: . The planning process raises awareness of potential hazards and vulnerabilities within the community. Reduced Risk: By identifying and addressing risks, the plan helps communities become more resilient to future disasters.

  ---

• Labor Day First (8/4/2025)

  

  Labor Day First, First Day of School Second

  In the City of Gardner summer is still well underway but soon thoughts will turn to Labor Day Weekend and what comes right after. Labor Day is September 1^st, and the first day of School in the city of Gardner is September 2^nd. Consult your individual town website for your community. CLICK for the full Gardner MA 2025-2026 school calendar. The calendar is discussed in a “DEEP DIVE” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady. Listen on any device, CLICK HERE.

  August 19^th and 20^th will be Administrative Council Retreat Days. August 21^st is Teacher Leader Training Day. Then, there are 4 full days of professional development for faculty and staff to prepare for the upcoming school year. Everybody gets Labor Day off and then return to school begins on September 2^nd. If the 2025/2026 winter is not too bad, the last day of school will be a half day on June 12, 2026. Once school is out, there will be a couple weeks of preparation for a big national event: the 250^th birthday of the United States on July 4, 2026.

  ---

• Chair City Jobs 8-4-25 (8/4/2025)

  

  Job Openings – City of Gardner

  The City of Gardner is looking for a Building Commissioner, Local Building Inspector, Young Adult Staff Librarian, DPW Truck Driver, and an Executive Aide to the Mayor.

  For more information and to apply online, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• 25 Years – Gardner Magazine (8/4/2025)

  

  Gardner MAgazine – 25 Years

  We placed a new graphic on the top of the right column of the website because Gardner Magazine is celebrating 25 Years of service to the region. Thank you for your continued readership. To reach us via email: News@GardnerMagazine.com

  ---

• Upcoming Council 8-4 (8/3/2025)

  

  The Public Safety Committee had met on 8-1-25 for a very short 2 minute meeting. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Appointments Committee had met on 7-30-25 to consider various appointments. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Getting Ready for the Meetings – FULL INFO

  The Gardner MA City Council is meeting twice on Monday August 4^th. The Gardner City Council appointments committee met on July 30th: Appointments will go before the full City Council for approval at the meeting coming up on Monday August 4th. Update 8-4-25: Public Welfare Committee met on August 4^th at 8:30am and recommended the approval of both the Zoning map amendment regarding Dinan Drive/Zub Lane and the renewal of the intermunicipal agreement with the town of Ashby for veterans services. Listen to the short meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY:

  The Finance Committee met on July 31^st and you can listen to that meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Discussion at the Finance Committee included the veterans agreement with Ashby, funds for an interim Building Commissioner, and the City’s health insurance.

  Gardner Magazine will publish AUDIO of both of tonight’s City Council meeting when available.

  Scheduled for Monday is an informal City Council meeting at 6:30pm on a request from Councilor Karen Hardern to have an informal meeting with MART to discuss rider and pedestrian safety and route utilization and ridership. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  Then the regular City Council meeting gets underway at 7pm. Matters to be discussed include license applications, a zoning map change, various finance items, several appointments, and the July Economic and Community Development update. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  Previous City Council Meetings Coverage – Visit the City Council page, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Waiting for a Text (8/3/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases the original song “Waiting for a Text”

  Listen to the original LOVE song “Waiting for a Text” on any device. There are 2 versions.

  From the song: “I spent all day waiting for a text, put life on pause and didn’t do next, I spent all day waiting for a text, been so long my feelings are mixed…..”

  “Believe me, believe me, I love you too…(I love you too!) Believe me, believe me, I love you too…(I love you too!) “

  ---

• Update 8-2-25 (8/2/2025)

  

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updates the City of Gardner in a 25 minute update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with an Extensive Monthly Update following July 2025

  Our graphic is intended to depict the many topics covered by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson in his monthly update. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Topics covered in this month’s update: Streamflow measurements led to non-essential water ban in the City of Gardner —- Greenwood Pool will be open first two Sundays in August (July Sunday attendance was 70-80 people) — August Yard Waste Pickup August 5th through August 8th — City Hall closed for Labor Day on September 1, School starts September 2nd. — 12th Annual Greater Gardner Night Out is Thursday, August 7th from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School — Weekend Concerts at Monument Park continue — Farmers Market Saturday August 16th at Gardner Community Center —- Theatre at the Mount announces performances of Grease — Gardner Senior Center Social Security 90th Birthday Party on Wednesday August 13th from 2-3pm — Gardner Elks Charity Ride is Saturday August 30th — Information on parking garage construction near 30 Pine — Thanks to those advocating for, and performing work at Gardner Dog Park — New Fire Trucks have fully arrived — Helen Mae Sauter School to be sold through RFP Process, City still will own Big Chair —– A walk through of paving projects —- Information on Rear Main Street Project — a thank you to departing Executive Aide Katie Jablonski.

  ---

• Hotline 8-2-25 (8/2/2025)

  

  WGAW Hotline Radio Show of August 2, 2025

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson opened up the program and told the audience about taking the lead on fighting against electric company scams where people are switched to a different electric company which ends up costing them more money. Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Also about energy pipeline to Massachusetts —-Lottery options in Massachusetts — State money for road repair – state increased amount of investment to cities and towns so Gardner will receive just under a million dollars. It will be busy for paving in September and October. Green Street paving project is underway now. —Dog Park Improvements — Greenwood Pool Sunday opening to continue for 1^st 2 Sundays in August — Veronica Patty on 12^th Annual Greater Gardner National Night Out taking place on Thursday, August 7^th from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School —-2^nd Hour: Paul Topolski, Director Gardner Emergency Management on preparing for various emergencies — YMCA song segment – State Parks in Massachusetts with Werner Poegel — An interview with Brian Shortsleeve, Republican Candidate for Governor (election is next year)—-

  ---

• Fiscal Responsibility (8/1/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Spoke with Gardner Mayor Nicholson About Fiscal Responsibility

  In a segment which is part of the Fiscal 6 Project series, Gardner Magazine spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about Fiscal Responsibility. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Mayor Nicholson explained Gardner’s approach: “We’ve taken a very careful approach with what we’ve been doing with our spending, with our finances, and really following the policies that we have in place, too. A lot of people may not realize that for the past eight or so years, it actually was one of the projects I worked on when I was the executive aide in this office, we’ve made financial policies that the administration, the executive branch of the city’s government has to follow. Now that includes when things get put up before the city council, how our spending goes, what projects get what type of funding, everything from there. And we follow those policies, and that’s what gets us to where we are today. “

  Mayor Nicholson continued: “We have to be very careful because there’s many communities in Massachusetts that are looking for things like a Prop 2.5 override, that are looking for substantial budget cuts because they can’t afford certain things right now. And many in our area are in that spot now. And we’ve been able to avoid that here because we take that careful approach and really, you know, it’s not just double crossing your Ts and double dotting your Is, but also making sure that, yeah, we’re not guessing that the revenue is going to be too high in the budget. We’re not asking for more than what we need. We’re making sure that our one-time funds are going to one-time projects and working towards that type of cyclical look at things, because you need to be conservative in your finances, otherwise you set yourself up for failure.”

  For more about Gardner’s 94% rule and the 6 signature process, the millions saved for Gardner electricity rate payers through a prudent decision, the effort to increase revenue and reduce expenses, and the 50 Grand which brought in 50 Million, and several related interviews, please visit the Fiscal 6 project page, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• This Week 8-1-25 (8/1/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” for August 1, 2025

  Our Weekly News Magazine. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Sully the Comfort Dog — Gardner Magazine 25 Years — Water Restrictions — Greater Gardner National Night Out Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School — Google very positive conclusions on Fiscal 6 Project and the City — Monument Park Concerts — Greenwood Pool —– Songs Released — Various meetings in the Chair City are detailed.

  To list your event email News@GardnerMagazine.com.

  ---

• Sully 8-1-25 (8/1/2025)

  

  Comfort and Therapy Dog Sully Brings Joy to Dispatchers

  Everybody is smiling, the dispatchers and Sully the comfort and therapy dog on August 1, 2025.

  The Gardner Fire Department put out this statement: “The Gardner Fire Department’s therapy dog Sully, made a special visit to our city’s dedicated 911 emergency dispatchers today.”

  Gardner Magazine does not know if Sully’s handlers brought treats to the dispatchers or if Sully got any belly rubs or dog treats. We can confirm from the photograph that Sully got lots of love.

  Gardner Magazine is releasing the original song “Sully the Comfort Dog”. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Westminster 8-1-25 (8/1/2025)

  

  A busy August in the Town of Westminster MA – Complete Coverage

  Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 11 AM to 5 PM, Westminster’s beloved Town Benefit Day is back on Academy Hill, packed with familiar favorites and exciting new attractions. Details are found in Volume 19 of The South Street Sentinel for August 2025. CLICK HERE. The Chair Man and Chair Lady discuss all of the items in this edition. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  On the same date is also the 38^th Annual Town Benefit Day.

  Academy Hill Park is Now open to the delight of children in the community. It will be open 8am to dusk and provides 24 hour surveillance for safety.

  Westminster Farmers Market is Fridays from 3-6pm on Academy Hill. There are almost 20 vendors. For more details please visit their Facebook page, CLICK HERE:

  On Wednesday, August 6^th the Town Band will perform on Academy Hill from 7-9pm . Raindate is the next day. For more info, please visit their facebook page:
  
  

  Coming up in Westminster: — The Blues Express will be playing at the VFW Field, August 24, 2025 from 3-5pm. Admission is FREE. Music will be Blues Classics and originals. There will be a Snack Shack and Bounce Houses. 3 Eaton Street, Westminster. Taking place inside in event of rain. — The 10^th Annual Westminster Cracker Festival October 18, 2025 from 10am to 5pm in the Village Square, Westminster. There will be live music from The Fools, Mr. Strickland, The Tribe, Fred Ellsworth, and the Westminster Elementary Band. —- Any day of the week there’s something to do at the Crocker Pond Recreation Area which is open daily until August 24^th. Open weekends only August 30^th to September 1 and September 6-7. The Forbush Library is active with Author Talks: The Bird Book August 2^nd at 2pm, Casey McQuiston August 20^th at 7pm, and Dr. Tasha Eurich August 28^th at 2pm. For more details, CLICK HERE. There’s also an opportunity to meet MWCC’s Monty the Mountain Lion on Tuesday August 12^th at 10:30am. And the Wickedly Fun Scavenger Hunt is taking place from August 2^nd to August 17^th. —- The Westminster Fire Department is having a Handtub Muster on August 16^th and the Police Department is having the 54^th Bike Rodeo Tuesday August 5^th from noon to 1pm at Westminster Elementary School. —-The 5^th Annual Ashburnham/Westminster National Night Out is Tuesday, August 12^th from 5:30 to 8pm. Town of Westminster website, CLICK HERE.

  Town Crier Podcasts with Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen include: Episode 10 on Summer Safety. Episode 11 is about understanding your tax bill. Episode 12 is a Master Plan Update.

  The Town podcast page is located here, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• 25 Years – Gardner Magazine (8/1/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Celebrating 25 years of service

  Gardner Magazine was launched on August 4, 2000 as GreaterGardner.net. As the term “online magazine” became more widely used, the Gardner Magazine url was substituted as the main url. For most of the years, the site used aggregated news from other sources. In recent years, Gardner Magazine has been publishing much more original material. What sets Gardner Magazine apart, besides being completely FREE to the public, is the inclusion in articles of original sources such as PDFs of meeting agendas or Press Releases and frequent AUDIO podcasts which are available on any device.

  Currently, Gardner Magazine’s unique circulation is officially listed as 25,000+, though in recent months it has well exceeded 30k with well over 120,000 site visits in the month of July 2025. Daily visits averaged 4000+. For those who like to quote website “hits”, Gardner Magazine had 4.1 million hits in July 2025.

  On August 4^th, Gardner Magazine enters its 26^th year.

  ---

• Water 7-31-25 (7/31/2025)

  

  No nonessential outdoor water use from 9 am to 5 pm. in the City of Gardner triggered by low streamflow. The Chair Man and Chair Lady did a “Deep Dive” to explain the Water Management Policies in Massachusetts. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Low Streamflow Values Trigger Water Restrictions in Gardner MA

  The City of Gardner announced: “On July 27, 2025, City Officials informed MassDEP of low streamflow values which triggered the requirement in the Water Management Act permit requiring nonessential water use restrictions. This is an operational requirement in the City’s permit. No nonessential outdoor water use from 9 am to 5 pm.

  MassDEP regulations (310 CMR 22.15(8)) require that all public water systems establishing mandatory restrictions on water use notify the Department in writing within 14 days of the effective date of these restrictions.” The City of Gardner is proactive in meeting these requirements. Here is the letter sent by the City’s vendor, Veolia IMAGE CLICK HERE. PDF CLICK HERE

  So what are the requirements to which the City of Gardner must adhere? For Gardner that is when the streamflow is at 11 cubic feet per second at USGS Gage ID#01163200. The reasoning is this from the WMA guide: “All groundwater permittees with withdrawals in subbasins with significant groundwater depletion must minimize the impacts of their withdrawals in those subbasins.” WMA guidance is contained in a 69 page guide which we are providing for our readers here in its entirety, CLICK HERE.

  Further information was provided by Fabienne Alexis, the Deputy Press Secretary for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection who noted the following in an email to Gardner Magazine, “The City of Gardner informed MassDEP on July 27, 2025 that low streamflow values triggered the requirement in their WMA permit requiring nonessential water use restrictions (see attached). This is an operational requirement in the City’s permit. This is not the same as a state-declared drought. Note that there may be many reasons for a town to impose watering restrictions. They could be due to local operational issues, local water quality issues or other stresses on their water supply, requirements in a town’s permit issued by MassDEP, or a drought declaration. For Massachusetts, droughts are determined by the secretary of Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) and are based on recommendations from the Drought Management Task Force. The Task Force’s last monthly meeting was in early July and assessed conditions through the end of June. The next meeting will be on August 9 to discuss conditions through the end of July. The City of Gardner currently notes on its website the State’s Drought status that is in effect from June 1, 2025. Gardner is in the Central Region, which is not currently identified as being in a drought. For more information on the EEA Secretary’s determinations and Task Force meeting schedules, please visit: Drought Management Task Force. For more information about data compiled on Drought.gov, please contact the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS).”

  ---

• ZBA 7-28-25 (7/29/2025)

  

  Continued Again…ZBA fails to reach resolution of 163-165 Pine Street

  The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals met on July 28, 2025. Attorney Christine Tree made a lengthy presentation on behalf of Jonathan Bombaci concerning 163-165 Pine Street in Gardner. The matter has been before the ZBA for many, many months. There was a lengthy back and forth between the Board and Attorney Tree. The question of parking has been the issue and the modified plan has one less unit. Attorney Christine Tree asked the ZBA for a final resolution. “We need to bring it to a close.” Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Board has requested that the petitioner communicate with abutter to resolve matter of tilting the driveway to avoid runoff to the abutters property. Attorney Tree said that a photovoltaic plan was a bit too much to ask for. The issue of a survey also came up as there is a question regarding the property line. The meeting ended in the following way: Matter was continued to August. Attorney Tree may communicate with the interim Building Commissioner who is available on Mondays and Fridays.

  The YouTube video shows the detailed various plans. CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Night Out 8-7-25 (7/28/2025)

  

  12th Annual Greater Gardner National Night Out is Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School in Gardner MA. FREE Admission. FREE Food.

  

  12th Annual Greater Gardner National Night Out Coming up August 7th

  DATE AND LOCATION: The 12th Annual Greater Gardner National Night Out will be taking place on Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:00pm at Gardner High School on 200 Catherine Street in Gardner. Admission is FREE and even the food including hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and other refreshments is 100% FREE! Event is sponsored by the Gardner Community Action Team and the City of Gardner, CLICK for Event poster

  EVENT PURPOSE: The aim of the community event is to increase awareness of crime prevention and drug abuse prevention within the Greater Gardner area. Both the Gardner Police Department and the Gardner Fire Department will participate with K-9 Rocky and Comfort Dog Sully in attendance. Parents will be able to obtain Child ID Kits

  FREE ACTIVITIES: The family-friendly event has activities for kids of all ages to include bounce houses, obstacle courses, basketball hoops, archery, the new trackless train rides, charity dunk tank, and the hydro blaster.

  FREE ENTERTAINMENT and FREE ATTRACTIONS: Entertainment and attractions at the Greater Gardner National Night Out consist of music entertainment, a reptile show, a petting zoo, dozens of resource and vendor tables, and free raffles.

  FREE COOKOUT!: Food provided FREE consists of free hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, and other refreshments.

  FREE HAIRCUTS! Families can come for FREE haircuts which will be provided FREE.

  More event information from GCAT: Vendor and Resource Space signup link, CLICK HERE —- Baked Goods Sign up, CLICK HERE —- 2025 GCAT Community Service Award nomination form, CLICK HERE.

  About the National Event: National Night Out is held annually in August in most of the United States with an overall goal of bringing people in the community together and encouraging interaction. Across the nation, the event provides opportunities to meet and interact with local law enforcement in an effort to build trust and strengthen relationships. The goal is to raise awareness about crime prevention programs and resources. And most, like Gardner, make it fun with activities for all ages.

  ---

• Fix it Fever Song (7/27/2025)

  

  From the song “Fix It Fever” – “I’ve Got Fix It Fever, it’s not curable, ever – I won’t give up, never, I’ll pull the fix-it lever….Fix It Fix It, it’s time to Fix it, don’t ignore it, fix it, let’s fix it…”

  Gardner Magazine Releases a fun original song “Fix It Fever”

  OK. Everybody! Let Go. It’s time to fix it! Listen to any version of the song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Google Analysis – Fiscal 6 (7/27/2025)

  

  Google AI Draws Strong Conclusions About Gardner’s Approach.

  Listen to the Deep Dive on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  In this earth-shattering Deep Dive, the Google AI analyzes the Fiscal 6 Project and the approach during the past 5 years of Gardner Massachusetts. It is about the most positive piece we have ever heard about Gardner, MA. “Gardner is genuinely setting a new standard.”

  Here is the all important conclusion Google made: “So you’ve just taken a deep dive into Gardner, Massachusetts, a city that has truly redefined what’s possible in local governance. Yeah, from those fiscally sound practices, that just stunning return on grant funding to the proactive modernization of services and that deep, deep commitment to community wellbeing. Gardner is genuinely setting a new standard. As the mayor put it, you can always come and pull up a chair here in the Chair City. I love that quote. It really speaks to the place they’ve built based on the belief that residents should feel supported, heard, and just proud to call it home. So as you reflect on Gardner’s success story, this city that transformed itself by being both incredibly financially shrewd and deeply people-focused may be consider, what bold proactive steps could your own community take to build a stronger tomorrow? And what surprising aha moments might be waiting just around the corner if you just start looking for them?“

  ---

• Fiscal 6 Findings (7/27/2025)

  

  

  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.

  

  

  ---

• Hotline 7-26-25 (7/26/2025)

  

  A “Hot” Hotline Radio Show on WGAW for Saturday July 26, 2025

  As usual, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke with host Steve Wendell. Nicholson informed the audience that the Greenwood Pool Sunday openings have been successful and will continue through the first 2 Sundays in August as well. Other matters discussed included: Budget Matters – Work in the City – Projects in the City – Progress on the Salt Shed and proactive preparations for winter. Fiscal Planning for later in the year – Planning for upcoming School Year – Property Reevaluation in Gardner. Listen to the entire program on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel had a commentary on the Fiscal 6 Project which documents the 5 years of positive change in Gardner MA. — The late Hulk Hogan was honored with a special report and Hulk Hogan’s appearance at the Republican National Convention in July 2024 was replayed. — Rachael Flurry from the Templeton Recreation Commission — The passing of Chuck Mangione —- Westminster “Town Crier” podcast with Stephanie Lahtinen.

  ---

• This Week 7-25-25 (7/25/2025)

  

  This Week in the Chair City of Gardner MA for July 25, 2025

  Listen to our weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Junior Police Academy – Fence at Greenwood – Road Construction on Green Street – Board of Health – Fiscal 6 Project – Housing – Gardner Puzzle – Original Songs – Monument Park Concerts – National Night Out – Meetings in the Chair City including Gardner Housing Authority, Golf Commission, Retirement Board, Conservation Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Council on Aging, and the Airport Commission.

  This information came in after we recorded the podcast — Update 7-25-25 1:25pm from Gardner City Hall “The Sunday pool openings have been a great success! The community response has been overwhelmingly positive. With that in mind, we’re excited to extend Sunday openings beyond the initial four-week trial in July. The pool will also be open the first two Sundays in August.”

  ---

• Housing 7-25-25 (7/24/2025)

  

  Housing Focus – An Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on Housing Efforts

  As part of our Fiscal 6 Project, Gardner Magazine interviewed Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about Housing in Gardner and efforts to be proactive. Printable pdf of entire text, CLICK HERE Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Mayor NIcholson stated that “Gardner is no stranger to the housing crisis that’s facing Massachusetts and the country as a whole.” The Mayor outlined some of the work he believes “we just need to do.” In the course of the 11 minute interview, Nicholson was specific that Gardner needed to work on housing production due to demand for housing. One of the proactive efforts has been and is working with some of the owners of property in the Downtown that are or can be converted to housing units. “It’s also one of the reasons why we are currently working on our city’s first ever Master Plan….one of the chapters in that is a housing production plan.” Gardner has had portions of a Master Plan in the past but Nicholson has pushed for this comprehensive undertaking which will positively affect the Chair City’s path forward for decades.

  Mayor Nicholson spoke about the need for public-private partnerships, the need to look at the zoning code, to cut back on the red tape, and to work with other government leaders who can bring in grant funds to help boost housing production. The Mayor had a roundtable discussion in collaboration with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik this past January to foster a frank discussion on what changes can be made to make progress on the issue. Many more specifics are outlined in the complete interview which you can read on PDF or listen to above. More than 3 dozen subject areas are covered with complete AUDIO and complete text right on the page at Fiscal6.com, home of the Fiscal 6 Project.

  ---

• Hubbardston 7-23-25 (7/23/2025)

  

  Two officials from the Town of Hubbardston explain Hub Connect and the Sandpit Overlay District Project. Town of Hubbardston website, CLICK HERE.

  The Hubbardston Interview – with Nathan Boudreau and Leeanne Moses

  Gardner Magazine spoke with Hubbardston Town Administrator Nathan Boudreau and Administrative Coordinator Leeanne Moses on July 23, 2025 about HubConnect and the Sandpit Overlay District Project. Complete Interview text on pdf, CLICK HERE. Interview page with text of interview, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Nathan Boudreau explained HubConnect: “It is our currently-in-creation, ever-evolving digital government platform, built using CIVIC-optimized Microsoft 365, Power Automate, and SharePoint to modernize how we serve residents and support staff. It connects services, automates tasks, and centralizes records. It’s not off-the-shelf, and that’s what I like about it. It’s not finished, and that’s what I like about it. It’s actively rolling out, improving week by week. We’re building while using it, and that’s the point. Real work, real feedback, real results. And I couldn’t speak higher on the potential of this project to really allow us to utilize the existence of modern technology to enhance our ability to serve the public. A good example of some of the things we’re going to be doing with this is HubFix, a automated routing system for constituent reporting. We do job licenses. We’re doing HR. I have automated our accounts payable system. We’re going to be using it in almost any way over the next year that used to be a paper form.”

  Boudreau explained the Sandpit Overlay District Project: “So the Sandpit Overlay District is a project that we’ve been working on for about six months now. We’re working with an engineering firm called Niche Engineering, and it is to take the very large sandpits owned by approximately six to eight individuals on the Hubbardston-Gardner border and figure out what would be appropriate there. We’re looking to maintain the rural charm of the Town of Hubbardston while also understanding that these sandpits have been dangerous. Every couple of years there’s a death there. We get calls about ATV accidents and trespassing all the time. So we were able to receive a rural community funding grant through the Community One Stop, which is a grant portal, in 2024. And after putting out the request for proposal and receiving the award to Niche Engineering, we are finally at a point where we’re going to be able to seek public input.”

  Leanne Moses provided additional details on the project. “So it’s very important to the Town of Hubbardston that we hear what the people are interested in seeing in this potential development. We want to make sure that it’s something that the community is involved in, has a say in, and is listened to about because we’re aware of the history of this location. So on August 4th, we’ll be launching a survey to the residents of Hubbardston to complete and give us their input on what they would like to see there, what they wouldn’t like to see there, what they would like it to look like, what they wouldn’t like it to look like, how big or how small they would like it to be. And then, additionally, on August 26th, it’s a very important date. We are going to be having a community discussion in the Senior Center, and it’s going to be a public forum to review the initial concepts that Niche has presented to us and gather in-person feedback.”

  The lengthy text of the entire interview including everything happening in Hubbardston, MA is on this special Hubbardston Interview page, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Paving – July (7/23/2025)

  

  Road Construction to Begin on Green Street in Gardner

  During the next few weeks, the construction zone will be from the Uptown Rotary to Bertha Avenue. In the graphic, Red indicates New Asphalt paving and Blue indicates New Sidewalks. Currently, no sidewalks exist on Heywood Street.

  According to the City of Gardner, here’s what the road construction project will include: Repaving Green Street from the Rotary to Bertha Ave, along with Heywood St and Beech St between Woodland Ave and Green Street. Project will involve the removal of the old concrete and asphalt capped sidewalks. Pulverizing the streets, grading, compacting. Installation of new asphalt berms, sidewalks, concrete handicap ramps, and paving streets.

  The City of Gardner posted, “Expect traffic delays on Green Street from the Pearl Street Rotary to Bertha Ave. for the next 2-3 weeks as new sidewalks are installed and paving work ensues.”

  ---

• Health 7-21-25 (7/22/2025)

  

  Gardner Board of Health has Answers re Landfill and other Matters

  The Gardner Board of Health met on July 21, 2025. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Director Micah Blondeau had an extensive report. The City has a new quote on the leachate pump system and based on that quote, the Board of Health is short about $40,000 in funds and will seek approval from the City Council so that a bid process can begin. The projected completion would be in November before winter.

  Blondeau said the results came back regarding wells near the landfill and there was no real change from previous results. Risk is considered gw3 and the results indicate that the samples were not even close to exceeding contaminate levels. Sampling will continue at regular intervals.

  As far as private well regulations, the Board of Health expects to vote on the matter soon and put the regulations in to effect the 1st of the year. Other matters discussed included food establishments, housing, prevention, arboviruses and ticks, emergency plans, and vaccines.

  The National Night Out is scheduled for Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Director Blondeau said that Veronica Patty is still looking for local bakeries to attend, whether a trusted residential kitchen or a bakery.

  ---

• Gardner Puzzle (7/21/2025)

  

  Showcasing the Gardner Puzzle

  On any given day, there are so many unique pieces which come together to form the model city of Gardner Massachusetts.

  Our collage from left to right, top to bottom shows Ocean State Job Lot in the Gardner Plaza, the Greenwood Memorial Pool on Park Street, the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, Monument Park, a view of Downtown Gardner, Community Health Connections, Aldi Supermarket, Universal Insurance Agency, Park St. Park view of Crystal Lake, view from the Walgreen’s parking lot, Gardner Police Headquarters, Staples in the Gardner Plaza, Plants at Walmart, Timpany Plaza stores, Main Street in Downtown Gardner, Gardner Fire Station, 25 Main Street, Gardner City Hall.

  There are many more pieces which form the view of Gardner MA. Each piece is independent, simultaneously growing stronger alone and together with the other components of community. This is the Gardner puzzle, and it fits together very well.

  ---

• King is In (7/21/2025)

  

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

  For a list of Winchendon Public School staff, CLICK HERE.

  Winchendon Appoints King to be Interim Superintendent

  Charlotte King has been formally appointed the Interim Superintendent for Winchendon Public Schools on a vote of 4 to 1. Karen Kast McBride was the sole NO vote, stating that what the district needs is “a superintendent who actually has experience.” A further vote approved entering into negotiations relating to King’s pay.

  Citizens commented negatively to the School Committee at the beginning of the meeting about the process of selection. Listen to the discussions revolving around the decision from the School Committee meeting of July 17, 2025 in the full AUDIO presented here.

  McBride asked School Committee Chair Michael Barbaro a question which he said he could not answer because of an NDA: How much did it cost to get rid of Barbaro? McBride stated that it could be stated because they had a non disparagement agreement, not an NDA and she wanted to be transparent with the public. The amount was not disclosed at the meeting.

  Barbaro stated he is “truly confident in Charlotte King in her ability lead the district moving forward…she is caring, she is all in, and wants to do the best job that she can…and we will find out how good a leader she is for us.” King was the Director of Pupil Services from August 2023 to February 2025 before being appointed to Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Student Services.

  
  In final comments: Karen McBride said the district needs to do better with transparency and objected to the brevity of Barbaro’s letter announcing Gosselin’s departure. Greg Vine said he sincerely hoped the committee could pull together in the same direction and refrain from competing for who is the smartest in the room…Chair Barbaro said his statement was short due to legal advice. “I talked to our lawyer and he suggested the shorter the sweeter about why the Superintendent left.” Barbaro also stated, “sometimes things are not as they appear and I apologize for that.” There will be a meeting on July 31^st at which Charlotte King will bring forth some items.

  ---

• Monument Park July (7/20/2025)

  

  Classic Rock Coming to Monument Park during last Concert of July

  On Saturday, July 26, 2025, popular classic rock band Mr. Strickland will take the outdoor stage at Monument Park from 6 to 8pm. The band plays killer classics from the 60’s, 70’s, and beyond. In the event of rain, the band will play Sunday, July 27th at 2pm.

  Top Photo shows the audience on Saturday, July 19th. Bottom photo shows Mr. Strickland at a recent performance.

  Next 4 concerts: August 2^nd: Green Sisters with Folk Music 6-8pm, August 9^th: The Long Run with an Eagles Tribute playing from 6-8pm, August 16^th: 4EverFab with a Beatles Tribute playing from 5-7pm, and August 23^rd: Jay & Bill with Country Rock playing from 5-7pm. All Concerts are FREE. Donations are always welcomed.

  
  For more information Email: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov

  ---

• Doggy in a Woggy (7/19/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine releases original song “Doggy in a Woggy”

  Dog owners understand that our canine friends become part of the family. This original song is about the joy of owning a dog. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “He’s a doggy in a woggy, with a big canine smile, sometimes waking up groggy, ‘cause he’s been around a while….So much joy in all the little things, with the love in great abundance. A dog who talks and almost sings, spreads affection with no reluctance.”

  ---

• Hotline 7-19-25 (7/19/2025)

  

  

  A busy Hotline Radio Show on WGAW – July 19, 2025

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

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson was featured in an extended segment at the beginning of the program. Nicholson had just left the Junior Police Academy graduation which this year had 25 graduates. – The Mayor spoke of the the Gardner Farmers Market taking place on the day of the show. – The Mayor thanked City Councilor Judy Mack for making the suggestion to open the Greenwood Pool on Sundays. It is open 7 days a week in July. Nicholson also reassured the public that the fencing going up around the old indoor pool building is being erected so that abatement work can be done. The actual demolition won’t take place until the Greenwood Pool closes for the year so there is absolutely no safety risk to anyone. – The Mayor gave a paving update. – Nicholson spoke about the award received for Gardner Elementary School as a 21st Century Learning Environment. – There was also a discussion about the successes of the last 5 years and plans for the future including solutions for housing, economic development, and revitalization. – The Mayor gave a big Thank You to the crowd who came out for the Filming Festival for “Bolio, “Spirit of the Mustang” movie. As the streets were closed anyway, the event gave a boost to local businesses.

  The rest of the show lineup: USPS Commentary with Werner Poegel with First Class Stamp price up to 78 cents – ABC Report on Fall River Assisted Living Facility fire resulting in 10 deaths — Jack McGrath with Patriot Riders Free Food for everyone starting at 11am Sunday July 20^th at Gardner Fish and Gun Club. It’s the Patriot Riders of America – Day in the Park Celebration — Steve Wendell on some local and regional news items — Phone calls with listeners segment – Deep Dive on Center for Exotic Snakes. — a tribute to Connie Francis

  ---

• Don’t Know Don’t Care (7/18/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases a snarky original song “Don’t Know and Don’t Care” just for fun

  Ever have someone say to you “I don’t know and I don’t care“. That happened to me one day and inspired the original song “Don’t Know and Don’t Care” Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “I don’t know and I don’t care, got no answer from just thin air, it won’t come from just anywhere, ‘cause I don’t know and I don’t care!“

  ---

• Downtown Revitalization (7/18/2025)

  

  Marketing and Branding Plan in the works for Downtown Gardner MA

  Gardner Magazine interviewed Mayor Michael Nicholson on July 17, 2025. We did 8 interviews on that date for the Fiscal 6 Project. The topic of this interview is Downtown Revitalization: Downtown Gardner in 2020 vs 2025 – The efforts made leading to the ability to consider a specific marketing and branding plan. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Mayor Nicholson spoke about the changed look of Downtown Gardner, “If you drive through downtown and look at like a street view picture on an online map from 2019, and you look at it now, it’s night and day. …There’s really a lot that’s happened downtown, and I’m really proud of the amount of work that’s been done” When asked why people are doing this Nicholson responded, “…They’re seeing what Gardner has to offer. I think they’re seeing that we’re open for business, that we’re a place that’s going to be willing to work with people, and we’re willing to invest in our community, so why shouldn’t they invest in us as well?“

  Investments in Downtown: The Mayor spoke about the investments in Downtown Gardner by the City itself, through State and Federal grants, and by the businesses themselves. “We’ve done everything we can to make sure we’re bringing back every penny we can in grant funding from both the state and federal government into Gardner.”

  Regarding formerly blighted properties: An ordinance a few years back co-sponsored with City Councilor George Tyros set a minimum standard for properties so that Gardner would never again look like a run-down community. Nicholson stated, “It’s really something that we are doing to make sure that the city looks the way it’s supposed to be looking, and we have a place that looks like a lively community.”

  Mayor Nicholson spoke about Rear Main Street and its future impact. “That is a new 100-spot parking lot, event plaza, water feature, food truck court, and some green areas as well there, too. That’s phase two of the project that’s there, and phase three is the eventual construction of a multi-story housing building in Rear Main’s area. And I’ve got to say, that’s going to be game-changing for the downtown area.”

  The Mayor spoke about one of the cool things about the movie “Bolio, Spirit of the Mustang” of which portions were filmed in Downtown Gardner. “The movie ends with a soapbox, Cart Race, and they’re doing it right by the West Street parking lot, which is the home of the starting line for our Gardner chair luge that we have...”

  As far as marketing Downtown Gardner, “We did a wayfinding study last year that’s been completed that we’re currently reviewing the results of to see how we can improve signage in the area to make sure people can get to where they’re going and know what’s around them there, too. We’re currently working right now on beginning a marketing and branding plan for the downtown area and the city as a whole, so we can see how we can market ourselves not only to new businesses coming in, but to people who are looking to call Gardner their home, and really make it so that we build that community from the ground up by working in every sector that we can.”

  ---

• This Week 7-18-25 (7/18/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” for July 18, 2025

  Listen to our weekly news magazine on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Fiscal 6 Project — Downtown Revitalization and Marketing — Fiscal Responsibility — 632 Signatures — Work at the Dog Park — Conservation Commission Topics — Song Release of “Stuck to the Phone” —-Farmer’s Market on July 19th and August 16th — Upcoming Meetings.

  ---

• Fiscal 6 Project (7/18/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Unveils Fiscal 6 Project Documenting Gardner’s 5 Years of Change

  
  So what is the Fiscal 6 Project? It is a project undertaken by Gardner Magazine to document how and why Gardner got to where it is after the last 5 years of unprecedented positive change.

  It’s sort of a “look under the hood” and on ongoing living documentary about the City of Gardner, which is increasingly being called called the “Model City for America”

  The Fiscal 6 Project is located at Fiscal6.com, CLICK HERE. featuring a series of interviews with Gardner Mayor Nicholson about very specific subjects, relevant embedded videos for each of the previous 5 fiscal years, and important links.

  

  Visit the Fiscal 6 Project at Fiscal6.com, CLICK HERE.

  There are dozens of interviews and many resources.

  Here are the topics covered so far at fiscal6.com: Aesthetic Improvements, Background and Approach, Basic City Services, Blighted or Private Properties, Blighted or Unused City Properties, Business Vacancies, City Employees, City Transparency, Downtown Revitalization, Education Facilities, Education Improvements, Elder Support, Environment and Energy, Endorsements and Recognition, Fiscal Responsibility, Health-Related, Housing and Real Estate, Industrial Space, Infrastructure Improvements, Internet and Connectivity, Legal Updates for the City, Non-Profits in Gardner, Out-of-the-Box Thinking, Parking in Gardner, Patriotism and Ceremony, People are Policy, Promoting the City, Public Safety, Public Transportation, Recreation and Open Space, Roads and Infrastructure, Veterans Services, and Water & Sewer.

  ---

• Mud Pit (7/17/2025)

  

  Mud Pit is GONE– Dog Park Looking Great

  Gardner’s DPW Crew spent a couple days at the Gardner Dog Park at Pulaski and the results speak for themselves. The drainage project was done in 2 phases with the other side of the park being done more than a year ago. This time the focus was on an area which had become known as the “Mud Pit” by frequent dog park visitors. Before applying the appropriate materials, the team dug down about 4 feet to create the needed drainage. Photographs were taken by Claude Vautour who has spearheaded the effort along with City Councilor Karen Hardern, DPW Director Dane Arnold, and City Engineer Rob Ovila. The project had been on the DPW list for some time. And now, it’s done. Gardner Magazine spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on July 17, 2025 about the project and that it’s just the beginning of improvements at the park. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated: “There’s going to be a lot more work done at the dog park throughout the course of the summertime. But there’s always been concerns about drainage issues at the dog park there, too. So I really have to say a special thank you to our DPW Director, Dane Arnold, and our City engineer, Rob Oliva, who over the past several months and almost a year have been really doing engineering studies of the Gardner Dog Park to see how we can make those drainage issues a thing of the past. So there’s a lot of work that’s being done over right now at the Pulaski Park Dog Park to fix those issues and really make it so that we have the best situation for our four-legged friends who go and utilize that park. I do want to say a very special thank you also to one of our local residents, Claude Vautour, who voiced the concerns originally that something had to be done, and our Ward 4 city Councillor, Karen Hardern, for her advocacy in this as well. This really was a collaborative team effort that’s there. And so while the work started to be done, get ready to see some work being done there throughout the course of the summer.”

  ---

• Conservation 7-14-25 (7/15/2025)

  

  The Gardner Conservation Commission met on July 14, 2025

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

  The meeting revolved around discussions on various matters. Enforcement Orders Discussed: Sludge Landfill, 36 Nicole Terrace, and 282 Brookside Drive. Matters to be brought up again. —- 170 Mill Street on the calendar for a year. If no info received soon, Chair Greg Dumas said the commission would ask legal counsel to step in. —- Nature Trail Update: Members suggested barriers are needed so people can’t drive on the trail. The Chair asked the Conservation Agent to reach out to Tighe and Bond as to why they didn’t feel a barrier was needed. Chair Dumas is concerned about liability. —- Perley Brook Culvert Failure: No information back from National Grid. Conservation Agent will make sure it’s blocked off to avoid someone going over it. Commission will communicate with DPW and National Grid —- 122 Saunders Street: Discussion revolved around the concern over persons riding there with ATV’s. —- Conservation Agent Justin Enright commented on various issues in his report.

  The next meeting is July 28^th.

  ---

• Nicholson Official (7/14/2025)

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson Turns in more than 10 times required signatures

  On July 14, 2025, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson turned in 632 signatures from registered voters. Nicholson only needed 50 signatures but overwhelming support delivered more than 600. It has been exactly 5 years since Nicholson was sworn in on 7-14-2020.

  The Mayor issued this statement after turning in the signatures. “Five years ago, after a very interesting special election cycle, I had the honor of being sworn into office as Gardner’s 20th Mayor. Today, I turned in my nomination papers for re-election and officially qualified to be on the ballot this November 2025.

  Thank you to everyone who signed my nomination papers and to all those who offered to bring a sheet home to their families and friends so they could sign as well. Although we only needed 50 signatures to qualify for the ballot, we were able to turn in signatures from 632 registered voters. (no Gardner phone number pun intended with the 632)

  I could not be more thankful for all of the support and encouragement that I’ve received this election cycle and since I launched my first campaign for this office.I’m very proud of all we’ve been able to accomplish together over the last five years, and look forward to what the future has to bring.I’m asking for your vote this November to keep Gardner moving forward”

  Campaign Links: Donations — Lawn Signs —Volunteer — Email Updates — Website

  ---

• Stuck to the Phone (7/13/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Stuck to the Phone” an original song about an obvious problem.

  Listen to the song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “Sorry I can’t pay attention, Have zero memory retention, Have no time for reflection, ‘Cause I’m stuck to the phone….Stuck to the Phone, I can’t leave it alone, I’m stuck to the phone, stuck in the phone zone.”

  However, the song ends with redemption and someone “no longer stuck to the phone.”

  ---

• Fire Training (7/13/2025)

  

  Gardner MA Fire Department Does Summer Training on Thursdays

  In the Gardner Fire Department, Thursdays are one of the Training Days in the Summer. We are showing a photo posted of Tower 1.

  The Gardner Fire Department stated, “From June through September, Thursday training sessions are dedicated to operator qualification. To become qualified on Tower 1, one must complete a cone course, pass a driving test, demonstrate knowledge and testing of equipment, operation of the pump, and perform aerial exercises, including navigating near obstacles such as wires, trees, and road slopes to reach a designated target.”

  ---

• Trucks 7-12-25 (7/12/2025)

  

  Gardner MA has great weather for Food Truck Festival

  Food Trucks serving a wide variety of food and desserts were on hand on Pleasant Street and City Hall Avenue on July 12, 2025. Besides the food, beverages were served ,various vendors sold their wares, and various organizations were represented.

  One of the organizations at the event was the Massachusetts Disabled American Veterans. Gardner Magazine spoke with Mike Euvrard (not Mark), the 3rd Jr. Vice Commander, Department of Massachusetts. Listen to our short interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Massachusetts Department of Disabled Veterans website, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Gardner PD Excellence (7/12/2025)

  

  The Gardner PD has a Facebook page, CLICK HERE

  Here is the Gardner Police Department page on the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.

  Showcasing Excellence at the Gardner PD

  Well-trained K-9 Rocky was at the Gardner Food Truck Festival on July 12, 2025 and a team of officers was on hand to keep the public safe. When you look at the Gardner Police Department building, you see a chair in the outline of the building. If you look further, you’ll see that even the shrubs are well-trained and well-groomed.

  We spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on July 1, 2025 in an lengthy interview and have included excerpts of what he said about the Gardner PD: Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  

  ---

• Flake and Dr. Mayo (7/12/2025)

  

  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.

  ---

  ---

• Hotline 7-12-25 (7/12/2025)

  

  Community Events, Politics, Disaster Preparedness, Religious Freedom, and Non-Profits Focus of WGAW Hotline Radio Show

  On the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of July 12, 2025: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about various events including the Food Truck Festival, the Filming Festival on July 16th, the Junior Police Academy graduation, and the Farmers Market on July 19^th at Waterford Community Center. —Werner Poegel has a commentary focusing on false Facebook posts and introduces the radio play, ” The Story of the Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo” — the YMCA Song is played —- Jack McGrath with Patriot Riders is interviewed on “America Day in the Park” coming up on July 20^th at the Gardner Fish and Gun Club where food is FREE to everybody. McGrath also talks about “Smilin” Ernie, a 100 yr. Old World War II veteran who just passed away Patriot Riders website, CLICK HERE — Host Steve Wendell speaks on bringing Non-Profits to the radio for FREE and advised leaders of Non-profits to email News@WGAW1340.com to get booked on the show which is heard on AM 1340, 98.1FM, and streamed to everywhere in the world. Listen to the show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  2^nd Hour: An ABC Report on the floods in Texas followed by Paul Topolski, Gardner’s Director of Emergency Management. Topolski spoke of My Radar, website, CLICK HERE, and signing up for Gardner’s Code Red, CLICK HERE. Topolski also provided advice on chargers for phones and gave some details on Amateur Radio. —- Steve Wendell gave on an update on IRS regulations pertaining to churches and introduced a report, “This Week on Capitol Hill”.

  ---

• This Week 7-11-25 (7/11/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” for July 11, 2025

  Our weekly news magazine for July 11, 2025. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Mosquito Control — July 16th Festival in Downtown — Mayor Nicholson on Education Curriculum and Programs — Youth Center Director — Songs Released — Upcoming Meetings in Gardner.

  ---

• Superintendent Shuffle (7/11/2025)

  

  Winchendon Superintendent of Schools Shuffle

  The Town of Winchendon is once again looking for a School Superintendent as Marc Gosselin is not staying beyond his contract which ends this month. Gardner Magazine reached out via email to all 5 Winchendon School Committee members.

  Mike Barbaro – Chair, Email: Barbaro@winchendonk12.org, David Iannaccone – Vice Chair, Email: Iannaccone@winchendonk12.org, Greg Vine – Email: gvine@winchendonk12.org , Karen Kast-McBride, Email: kkast-mcbride@winchendonk12.org, Tara Teixeira – Email: tteixeira@winchendonk12.org.

  We requested an interview with any or all of the members. Gardner Magazine will let you know if/when we receive a response.

  Publisher’s Editorial Comment: Winchendon needs to hire an individual with the mindset of solving its Public School issues – an individual who understands the difficult task and has the energy, acumen, and steadfastness to rise above the local politics and gain the confidence of not only the public, but also all the employees of Winchendon Public Schools.

  ---

• Planning Board 7-8-25 (7/11/2025)

  

  Planning Board Reviews Various Requests Including Factory Expansion

  The Gardner Planning Board met on July 8, 2025 and reviewed a site plan for multi-family residential units, was shown some plans for a proposed factory expansion which would need a zoning change for an abutting lot, and various other preliminary plans for site improvements.

  Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY

  ---

• Mosquitos July 2025 (7/10/2025)

  

  Mosquitos in for the “Fight of July” as Spraying Gets Underway in Greater Gardner Area

  In a letter sent to the City of Gardner, the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project announced that its personnel will be tentatively be in Gardner on July 10, 17, 24, and 31. See image of letter, CLICK HERE. Website, CLICK HERE. Those wishing to request service may call the CMMCP office at (508) 393-3055 between 7am to 3:30pm Monday through Friday.

  On the website you are able to schedule service, get spray schedules, get information on mosquito spread viruses, and find out about pesticides. Mosquito control in Massachusetts operates under M.G.L. Ch. 252 (Improvement of Low Land & Swamps) and the State Reclamation & Mosquito Control Board. Other pertinent laws and regulations on mosquito control can be found here.

  The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project was created by the Massachusetts State Legislature in 1973, and currently consists of 44 cities and towns in Central Massachusetts, from both Worcester and Middlesex Counties, covering over nearly 810 square miles. Please click here for more information on the CMMCP service area.

  ---

• Block Party (7/9/2025)

  

  Filming Day Festival July 16, 2025 11am to 6pm:
  “I’m very proud to welcome the cast and crew of Bolio to Gardner and look forward to seeing the Chair City up on the silver screen,” said Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson. “It’s great to see Gardner getting the attention it’s receiving from different production companies and the impact it’s having on our local economy.”

  City of Gardner to Hold Filming Day Festival Downtown on July 16th

  On Wednesday, July 16th from 11am to 6pm, Downtown Gardner will become a block party featuring the music of 7 Day Weekend with food, beverages, ice cream, and fun. It’s all to celebrate the filming of the movie Bolio: Spirit of the Mustang in downtown. COMPLETE PRESS RELEASE, click here. The City of Gardner stated: “Join Us downtown to welcome the cast and crew and maybe catch the filming while you’re there.”

  Gardner Magazine is releasing the rock block party song “Film Festival” to help promote the event. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  LOCATION: Maki Park – Parker Street between Orpheum Park and Lafayette Square.

  RESTRICTIONS: Logos, text, or images not pre-approved by the production company can’t appear on clothing or signs.

  FOOD DRIVE – SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE: Will be held at the festival to support the food pantries of both the Gardner CAC and the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center.

  ROAD CLOSURES: On the day of the festival, Parker Street will be closed from Central Street to Oak Street and Nichols Street beginning at 8am, and Connors Street will be closed between Parker Street and City Hall Avenue beginning at 6am. All roads will be back open by 8pm.

  ---

• Festival 7-12-25 (7/9/2025)

  

  Gardner Gearing Up for Food Truck Festival

  The Widely Anticipated 8^th Annual Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday, July 12, 2025 from noon to 7pm.

  Run by WooTrucks, the festival promises a wide variety of foods from a large number of trucks parked on Pleasant Street in front of Gardner City Hall and on City Hall Avenue. Admission is FREE. Beer and Wine will be available. Vendors and Artists will be selling their wares. And some form of music is expected.

  The BIG LIST of Participating Food Trucks: POTATO POTATO – Birds Nest Italian Street Food – Braised Food Truck – Nom Nom Hut – Minuteman Kettle Corn – Berrysweets – MOES SWEET EATS – Clyde’s Cupcakes – Kona Ice of Shrewsbury – Sabrosa Venezuela – Travelin’ Bones – Sugarcane Hut – Uncle Joey’s Cannoli – Travelin Pizza – Shanes Hot Dogs – Trolley Dogs – Fryd guys – wacky candy – shack – Summa madness llc – Dogfather – Easy Street Tacos – Mac Daddy – Moon Hill Brewing

  ---

• Beat the Heat (7/9/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases original song “Beat the Heat’

  Turning up the air conditioner? Cooling off at the pool or beach? Trying to beat the heat? Listen to the original song in 3 versions on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “I still feel the heat,still need to beat the heat, I want to beat the heat, I need to beat the heat”

  ---

• City Council 7-7-25 (7/8/2025)

  

  Gardner City Council Moves Various Matters Forward

  At the Gardner City Council meeting of July 7, 2025, the Council approved the new position of Youth Center Director. The request of the Gardner CAC to build a kitchen at the Waterford Community Center was approved, and Councilor Brad Heglin gave a report on Waterford. The Helen Mae Sauter School will go up for sale through the Request for Proposal (RFP) Process with a minimum bid of $300,000. Councilor Judy Mack commented that the Greenwood Pool was mobbed on its first Sunday open. Greenwood Pool is open 7 days a week from noon to 5pm in the month of July. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City Council also had a joint meeting with the Planning Board concerning a zoning change request. Attorney Christine Tree gave a presentation. The change would change a parcel on Dinan Drive to industrial 1 from commercial 1 and allow for Blessington Corporation to expand its existing facility locating on an abutting parcel which is already zoned industrial. The company specializes in the fabrication and installation of architectural millwork. Our graphic shows Dinan Drive at the bottom and the existing Blessington building in the Summit Industrial Park. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Elks Movie Night (7/7/2025)

  

  Gardner Elks Brings Exciting Movie Night to Gardner MA

  This Friday, July 11th, it’s Outdoor Movie Night at the Gardner Elks off Park Street in Gardner featuring the iconic Robert Zemeckis film “Back to the Future”. The location overlooks beautiful Crystal Lake. Here’s what the Gardner Elks said about the event: “HEY HEY HEY! What are you doing THIS Friday? Come down to the Gardner Elks #1426 and catch a viewing of the classic movie Back to the Future with a gorgeous view of Crystal Lake!!! No cover! Concessions will be available! Doors open at 7pm, movie will start at 8pm. Come have some fun with the Best People On Earth!“

  Here is a scene from the movie when the Doc shows Marty how the DeLorean travels through time with his dog. “What did I tell you, 88 miles per hour”. Just CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Nicholson’s Gardner (7/6/2025)

  

  An eye-opening analysis from a national company, “Google” concludes other towns or cities could learn from Gardner’s approach.

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Website Analyzed by Google AI – And It Finds Progress

  Those of you reading Gardner Magazine regularly completely understand that we love to promote the City of Gardner. So when we found out that the Mayor of Gardner put out a campaign website detailing various issues, we had to check it out. We then asked Google to give it an objective analysis. The result: Google actually titled the “Deep Dive” podcast “Mayor Nicholson’s Gardner: Progress and Development.” Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The Google analysis concluded “It’s clear his pretty unique educational background, those dual degrees, a master’s in public policy, the law degree, really set the stage. It seems like it provided a broad toolkit. Yeah. For everything from landing that historic grant funding and sparking downtown revitalization to opening new schools, modernizing how the city actually runs, and tackling housing with these innovative solutions, the progress seems really tangible. It does. And it makes you think, doesn’t it? It raises this question, really, for you, the listener, to consider. How might a city’s deep commitment to detailed planning, combined with, let’s say, diverse expertise in its leadership, how does that translate into such concrete improvements for the people who live there? And maybe, what lessons could other towns or cities take away from Gardner’s approach?”

  ---

• Movie in Gardner (7/5/2025)

  

  “BOLIO: Spirit of the Mustang” is the latest flick to be filming in Gardner. Gardner has been a past location for portions of TV series and movies including Dexter: New Blood, Castle Rock, School Ties, Summer Interlude, Marble, and Viewpoint.

  

  Movie Permit to Film a Movie in Gardner, CLICK for PDF. — More information from the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.

  Movie Filming in Gardner During July and August

  Director Jim Issa is bringing his cast and crew to the City of Gardner in July and August and is actively looking for volunteers to act as extras for a school assembly scene. And, there will be a Filming Day Festival on July 16th in Downtown Gardner across from the Gardner Ale House to celebrate the movie” BOLIO: Spirit of the Mustang”, also featuring a food drive for MVOC that day. A school assembly scene will be filmed at a Gardner School location on July 23rd. 100+ extras are wanted. Email: bolioextras@gmail.com NO compensation is provided. Minors need parental permission.

  Movie Plot Synopsis (from Moviedelic)

  The plot revolves around Dale Bolio, a high school shop teacher struggling with personal challenges. The tragicomic tale depicts his life overshadowed by recent setbacks. While he is already coping with the death of his mother, Dale’s wife decides to leave him. Moreover, he also senses a lack of respect at his workplace. His mundane existence turns around when he encounters Chuck Swayze, a charismatic life coach hired by the school to motivate the students. Dale and Chuck quickly form a strong friendship, but the former soon learns some unsettling truths about the latter, revealing that his new friend may not be as genuine as he appears.

  Gardner’s film liaison is also its Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier who wrote, “As the City of Gardner’s Film Liaison, I have had the privilege of working with various members of the film industry, at all levels of production and within numerous styles, and I can assure you that the city understands the positive impact that such projects have on our community. From larger productions such as Castle Rock and Dexter to the smaller commercials or independent productions and every project in between, the City of Gardner has provided aesthetic and proper locations, the support required to ensure an efficient and successful project, and the ancillary resources that strengthen a positive relationship within the process. We look forward to continuing this successful relationship with the film industry and welcoming more projects in the future.”

  The following is part of Mayor Michael Nicholson’s welcoming message: “As the Mayor of Gardner, Massachusetts, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all those seeking our city as a remarkable filming destination. Our city, with its captivating charm and diverse offerings, is the perfect backdrop for your next project. Gardner boasts a wealth of possibilities, from unique neighborhoods to expansive commercial businesses, picturesque recreational opportunities, and a vibrant historic downtown commercial district….”

  ---

• This Week 7-4-25 (7/4/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” for July 4, 2025

  Our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for July 4, 2025. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Greenwood Pool Sunday openings — Fiscal 6 interview — Editorial on the “Nonsense” — – Youth Center Director — – Songs – Events —- upcoming City Council meeting — A discussion regarding Helen Mae Sauter disposition — Other upcoming meetings

  Full Fiscal 6 Interview, CLICK HERE

  We also have the entire complete meeting AUDIO of the Finance Committee of 7-2-25. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Song – Independence Day (7/3/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases an original 4^th of July song “Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day”

  “Not Just Another Day (It’s Independence Day)” is an original patriotic song for the 4^th of July. The song celebrates America. We’re releasing it in the following versions: Pop Duet, Modern Country, Patriotic Rock, Patriotic Orchestral Overture, and Traditional.

  from Publisher Werner Poegel: “I wrote this with a love of the greatest nation on earth. I wrote this with a profound love for America. On this 4^th of July as we celebrate Independence Day, let us rejoice and let us recognize how lucky we are to be Americans.”

  Happy 4^th of July! — Happy Independence Day!

  From the song: “It is self-evident that all are created equal,and Another two hundred years will be America’s sequel,Living life with liberty and the pursuit of happiness,With a government given all of its rights from us.”

  ---

• Big Beautiful Bill (7/3/2025)

  

  House Passes Senate Version of “Big Beautiful Bill”

  On July 3, 2025 at about 2:30pm, the United States House of Representatives passed the “Big Beautiful Bill” with a vote of 218 to 214. As the Senate passed this version a few days ago, next step is the President’s signature. The bill is expected to be signed by President Donald Trump in time for an Independence Day July 4th ceremony at the White House.

  ---

• Beaches 7-3-25 (7/3/2025)

  

  A check on Area Beaches Closed Due to Bacterial Exceedance

  

  CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

  In the town of Templeton: Beamans Pond Campground and Beamans Pond Day Use are closed. In Winchendon: Lake Dennison State Park Day Use Beach is closed. The entire spreadsheet is listed here. CLICK on Image for larger view.

  Note to readers: Gardner Magazine checked out the closed beaches on the state of Massachusetts website. However, due to a coding error, the site does not show any towns after the letter s. The only way to get an accurate list is to download the data which we did. Attached. We have sent emails and and left a voicemail to let the State of MA know. Here is a link to the state beach dashboard, CLICK HERE. Under the graphic showing only towns up to a certain letter, you’ll see icons for various download options.

  UPDATE: 7/4/25: 2:15PM – A very kind man from the State of MA reached out to me just a few minutes ago and we discussed the problem with the State of MA website. I got a commitment that the State would look in to what coding changes could be made so the information put out to the public was perfectly clear and accurate. I thanked the man for working on the 4th of July. And it should be noted: There are many State and Municipal workers in every range of public safety areas who are working today for our benefit. Thank them when you see them. Happy 4th of July to all of you.

  ---

• 4th – 2025 (7/3/2025)

  

  Happy 4th of July

  On this Independence Day 2025, Gardner Magazine wishes you all a very Happy 4th of July as we celebrate our nation’s 249th.

  July 4, 1776 to July 4, 2025

  In 2026, there will be a big celebration of our 250th.

  ---

• Greenwood – July (7/2/2025)

  

  Greenwood Pool Expands Availability

  The City of Gardner announces that Gardner’s Greenwood Pool will also be OPEN SUNDAYS in July from noon to 5pm.

  That means the pool will be open 7 days a week from noon to 5pm throughout the month of July.

  Greenwood Pool will be open every single day in July.

  Season passes are available for purchase online. Daily fees are: Walkins: $1, Seniors or Military(with valid id) $3, Children and Minors 17 and under $4, Adults $5

  ---

• Where Adam Landed (7/2/2025)

  

  To put Phillipston in context: The nearby City of Gardner is 23.02 square miles in area with a population of over 21,000. Phillipston is slightly larger with a total area of 24.6 square miles and a population of under 2000 people. A little bigger in size with 1/10 the people.

  For more information on the Town of Phillipston, MA, please visit the website, CLICK HERE.

  “Where Adam Landed” – Interview with Phillipston CAO Adam Lamontagne

  Gardner Magazine had the honor to speak with Phillipston CAO Adam Lamontagne on July 2, 2025. Lamontagne has been in the position since April. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Some of the Issues discussed:

  

  Lamontagne drafted a letter to the U.S. Postmaster General asking for a Phillipston Post office. See pdf of letter. or click image for larger view. Currently the town shares the Athol zip code.

  The Phillipston Chief Administrative Officer spoke of the Phillipston Town Common and a vision for improving the area. Phillipston Memorial building is getting paving due to a $50,000 state earmark. Town Meeting approved $100,000 for new gym at the Memorial School and Lamontagne looks forward to a beautiful basketball floor. He touched on some of the nice places in Phillipston including the well-known Red Apple Farm and the public beach at Queen Lake. Lamontagne is working with other communities to get electric rates down through aggregation. There’s also an effort to improve technology in the community. Lamontagne praised his public safety officials.

  Adam Lamontagne noted that the recent Phillipston Town Meeting was very efficient, approving all 32 articles in one hour. Lamontagne was very pleased on how well he was welcomed by the community.

  ---

• Fiscal 6 (7/1/2025)

  

  Fiscal 6 – The Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

  Fiscal 6 is the 6th Fiscal Year Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has been in office and that started on July 1, 2025. We spoke with the Mayor about various needs and issues, and how things have changed over the last 5 years. Listen to the almost 2 hour interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Topics covered included: Mayor’s qualifications, training, and passions – Business – City Properties – Private Properties – Recreation and Open Space – Aesthetics – Fiscal Responsibility – Health – Parking – Education – Internet and Connectivity – Public Safety – Roads and Infrastructure – Veterans and Services – Legal Updates – Transparency – City Employees – Education – Water and Sewer – Industrial – Housing – Non-Profits – Promoting the City – Public Transportation – Patriotism and Ceremony – Recognition – Outreach – Environment –

  ---

• Saving an Egg (7/1/2025)

  

  Gardner Fire Department Rescues an Egg

  
  From Gardner Fire Department: “Today, Group 3 perfected their technique using hydraulic extraction tools. One member lifted the cinder block with the spreaders while another member used the cutters to carefully remove an egg without breaking it.”

  We are also showing you a photo of Gardner’s new Rescue1.

  

  ---

• This Week 6-28-25 (6/28/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine’s “This Week in the Chair City”

  Listen to the weekly News magazine on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  4th of July – Updates – Kindness in Gardner – Job Opportunities with City of Gardner – Song Released – Upcoming Events – Airport Commission SWPPP – Gardner CAC Expansion – Helen Mae Sauter School Disposition – City Council Upcoming Meeting and Public Hearing with Planning Board – Zoning Board of Appeals re 23 apartment dwellings.

  Upcoming City Council meeting agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Hotline 6-28-25 (6/28/2025)

  

  Wide Variety of Topics on WGAW Hotline Radio Show – Saturday June 28, 2025

  Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY

  In hour 1: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson was the first guest on the show and updated residents about the Greenwood Pool and Splash Park and demo of old building happening approximately mid September. The Mayor spoke on other city items including the City Salaries proposal, City Pensions, Darrel Sweney recovery from injuries, Script Studio opening and movie filming in Gardner. Steve Wendell spoke on his short career as a Shakespearan actor and his time as a teacher. An energy pipeline report with John Batchelor (a host from 9pm to 1am)

  In hour 2: No Business Like Show Business song -Wendell on his Howdy Doody Show appearance – Paul Topolski on Ham Radio Field Day – Scott Huntoon, Gardner Museum on Songwriters Workshop – Werner Poegel Commentary on Petty Gripes – Report on Signs of Teen Abuse

  ---

• Nicholson 6-27-25 (6/27/2025)

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson Updates the City

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the City of Gardner on June 27, 2025. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Topics Covered: Heat and cooling centers – Greenwood Pool – Movie filming in Gardner – Yard Waste Pickup – July 4^th Hours – Food Truck Festival July 12^th – Monument Park Concerts – Farmers Market – Ribbon Cuttings – National Night Out – Projects in the City – TriCity Takeover Day at WooSox.

  ---

• Hubbardston HubbConnect (6/26/2025)

  

  Town of Hubbardston MA Creates Groundbreaking Website platform for Residents

  The Town of Hubbardston officially launched its completely redesigned website and introduced HubbConnect “a groundbreaking, locally-built platform that modernizes how residents access town services while streamlining internal operations.” A Gardner Magazine “Deep Dive” podcast explains it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Town of Hubbardston wrote this: “Developed entirely in-house by Town staff using Microsoft 365, CivicPlus, assisted digital coding, and Power Automate, HubbConnect represents a flexible, cost-saving solution created specifically to meet the needs of a small rural community. This innovative approach eliminates the need for multiple expensive off-the-shelf systems while delivering exceptional value to residents through enhanced access and transparency”. Hubbardston website, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Phillipston Common (6/26/2025)

  

  Town of Phillipston Reviews Town Common Study

  The first draft of the Phillipston Town Common Study was released on June 25, 2025. Here’s a copy on pdf.

  The Town of Phillipston is asking residents for feedback through the month of July. The study itself was funded by the Community Preservation Committee and the expenditure was approved by residents at Town Meeting.

  Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” podcast explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Send feedback to CAO Adam Lamontagne at this email: alamontagne@phillipston-ma.gov.

  ---

• Top of the Hill (6/26/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Top of the Hill”

  Sometimes avoiding adversity can be planned. Most often it can’t. This original song is about a geographic advantage, being at the top of the hill. Pop and Jazz versions. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “When the rest are flooded out ,I’ve got my dry place to brag about, ’cause I’m at the top of the hill, And my house is dry still…(dry still)…dry still“

  The meaning of the song goes much further than a simple house on a hill.

  ---

• Kindness 6-26-25 (6/26/2025)

  

  

  Kindness Rampant in Gardner

  Gardner was recently deemed the kindest City in Massachusetts and #96 in the nation for everyday kindness. Survey page, CLICK HERE:

  
  Two local businesses are representative of the kindness norm in Gardner.

  Tractor Supply made a generous donation of dog food to the Gardner Animal Shelter. Gardner Animal Shelter posted, “THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Tractor Supply-Gardner for your generous donation of dog food. Our resident K9’s truly appreciate it!” And the Paramount Cafe is giving out FREE water during hot days. Neighboring business John’s Sport Shop posted, “Kindness is Easy & goes a long Way!!!! Thank you Neighbors!!!” Spot kindness in Gardner? Email News@GardnerMagazine.com

  And thank you for your everyday kindness.

  Previous article containing our “Deep Dive” podcast on the Cities of Kindness Report and the song “Gardner, City of Everyday Kindness” CLICK HERE.

  

  

  ---
• Pool 6-25-25 (6/25/2025)

  

  A Gardner mother posted on Facebook about the incident, “I brought my daughter swimming at the Gardner Pool this afternoon. The water was amazingly clear and perfect temperature. We were there for about 30 minutes before the pool started back washing with green/brown.. the lifeguards were yelling to get out… the ENTIRE pool was green/brown within 30 seconds…“

  Accidental Backwash Results in Short Pool Closure – then Human Discharge Closes it for Remainder of Day.

  The Greenwood Memorial Pool was closed for a short time due to an employee activating the backwash accidentally. Just prior to reopening, a child vomiting in to the pool necessitated closing the pool for the remainder of the day so it could be sanitized.

  Statement from Mayor Michael Nicholson:

  “We have been made aware of an incident that took place at the Greenwood Memorial Pool today that caused the color of the water to change. An employee of the pool inadvertently clicked the backwash switch on the control panel, which caused the filter system to begin to backwash, causing the color of the water to change. The materials that were sent into the pool had already gone through the pool’s filtration and chlorination system and had been sanitized. However, out of an abundance of caution, the Board of Health was called in to test the water to ensure it was safe for swimmers. These tests confirmed that there was nothing harmful in the water and that the water was safe for swimming.

  To be extra cautious, the Board of Health requested that the pool be closed for one hour and chlorine levels increased to ensure full sanitization of the water. Following this process, the Board of Health reinspected the water again for chlorination and clarity and approved the pool to continue operating as usual.

  
  Unfortunately, as the pool was about to re-open, a child vomited into the pool, causing the pool to be closed for the remainder of the day so the water can be re-sanitized per health regulations and standards. As such, the pool will be closed for the remainder of the day (Wednesday, June 25)“

  
  

  ---

• Conservation 6-23-25 (6/25/2025)

  

  Landfill Topic and Others Come Up Again at Conservation Commission Meeting

  Listen to the June 23, 2025 meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Winchendon 6-28-25 (6/25/2025)

  

  
  Winchendon Food Truck Festival and Battle of the Bands

  The Winchendon Food Truck Festival and Battle of the Bands is Saturday, June 28, 2025 from noon to 7pm at GAR Park, 52 Murdock Avenue, Winchendon MA

  Food Truck Favorites Include: The Taco Dude • Mac Daddy • Berrysweets • Birds Nest Italian Street Food • Potato Potato • Sauced and Tossed Chicken Co • Uncle Joey’s Cannoli • Travelin’ Bones BBQ • Sugarcane Hut • Nom Nom Hut • Moe’s Sweet Eats • Eggroll Cafe Food Truck • Breez Freez • Dogfather • Bono Appetit • Easy Street Tacos

  Battle of the Bands Noon: The Faceless Hobos featuring Pat Townsend and Dave Romanowski, a duo who began playing together in 2017. 1:15pm: Sheep Dip with James Erikson, Jacqi Brown and Diane Wood 2:45pm: Rock 201 – a high energy classic rock band that has been rocking since 1998. 4:15pm – 5 piece party-cover band Plead the 5^th 5:45pm: Down Daizy – 80’s music that Rocks! With Bill Leger on guitar, Jay Sharron on drums, Joe Hazelwood – bass and Jamie Gauthier with those 80s vocals!

  The Town of Winchendon says: “Bring your appetite, your friends, and your dancing shoes — this is one summer celebration you won’t want to miss! FREE admission • Live entertainment • Family fun all day long!” For more about upcoming events in Winchendon, here is the Winchendon Parks and Recreation web page, CLICK HERE.

  Upcoming: Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday, July 12th.

  ---

• Sweeney Injured (6/23/2025)

  

  Here’s what happened: At the intersection of Temple and Elm Street in Gardner, a Gardner City employee was up in the air in the bucket of a bucket truck repairing a flashing light. Then, an 18 wheel tractor- trailer truck clipped the bucket of the truck. This apparently caused the harness worn by Gardner Electrical Inspector Darrell Sweeney to break, propelling him to the ground and resulting in severe injuries including several broken bones. Sweeney was transported to the hospital via Life Flight and was conscious and speaking when Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson went to visit him.

  City Electrical Inspector Darrell Sweeney Seriously Injured in Accident

  A freak accident at the intersection of Temple and Elm Street in Gardner involving a tractor trailer truck hitting the edge of a bucket from a utility bucket truck resulted in serious injuries to a Gardner City employee.

  Statement by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Accident today Involving City Electrical Inspector Darrell Sweeney:

  “Earlier today, City of Gardner employee Darrell Sweeney was seriously injured in a work-related accident. I was able to visit and speak with him briefly in the hospital, where he is being cared for by a dedicated team of medical professionals. Darrell has a difficult road ahead, but he is in good hands, and we are all hoping for his steady healing and full recovery.

  I want to express my sincere gratitude to the first responders who arrived quickly and provided critical assistance at the scene, as well as to the hospital staff who continue to care for Darrell with great skill and compassion. Their actions made an enormous difference during a very serious situation.

  Our thoughts and our prayers are with Darrell, his family, and his colleagues. The City of Gardner stands ready to support them however we can in the days and weeks to come.

  Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson“

  ---

• Gardner Jobs 6-23-25 (6/23/2025)

  

  For a current list of jobs available in Gardner Massachusetts, CLICK HERE.

  Chair City of Gardner MA has Job Opportunities

  Gardner Massachusetts is a growing City being recognized by others in the State and the Country. Working for a municipality like Gardner has its benefits well beyond the wage the position pays including health insurance and a vested retirement after 10 years. As of June 23, 2025, there are a number of openings.

  Current Opportunities with Link to Complete Details on City of Gardner Website
  DPW Mechanic – Skilled Equipment Mechanic and Operator
  Animal Control Officer – Full Time
  DPW – Full-Time Financial Administrator
  Economic Development and Finance Manager –performs professional, administrative, and technical work in both economic development and financial management.
  Mechanic – Gardner Municipal Golf Course –
  Seasonal Lifeguards – for Greenwood Pool
  Truck Driver – DPW

  ---

• Cooling 6-23-25 (6/22/2025)

  

  Cooling Centers Activated Due to High Temps

  Residents of Area Communities should check with their local town hall regarding the availability of a local cooling center to help deal with the high temperatures expected Monday June 23rd and Tuesday June 24th.

  In the City of Gardner for example, the Community Room at the Gardner Police station and the Gardner Senior Center are available until 7pm both June 23rd and June 24th as cooling centers. In addition, the Greenwood Pool will be open an extra 2 hours both days, until 7pm.

  Publisher’s Note: The graphic we used is from last year in June when we had a similar couple of hot days.

  ---

• Trump Address 6-21-25 (6/21/2025)

  

  President Donald Trump’s Address to the Nation

  President Donald Trump addressed the nation on Saturday, June 21, 2025 after the United States struck 3 sites in Iran. Listen to the 4 minute address on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• This Week 6-21-25 (6/21/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City on Saturday June 21, 2025

  Listen to the weekly news magazine on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Summer Reading Kickoff – the view from Willow Street – Greenwood Pool opening details – Board of Health meeting – Power Outage – Fireworks, music, and Birthday Celebration – Budget approval – Relay for Life update – Songs published – City Events

  ---

• Hotline 6-21-25 (6/21/2025)

  

  A Busy Hotline Radio Show on WGAW

  Listen to the entire show on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of June 21, 2025 featured an ABC Report on the Karen Read trial and not guilty verdict. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the June 21st Gardner Festival, Happy Birthday Celebration, and Fireworks. The Mayor provided details on the Greenwood Pool opening and spoke of upcoming paving in the City. Hotline featured the Pastor of the Mission Grace Church. Winchendon Town Manager Bill McKinney provided an update on his community. State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik spoke about funding received due to the “millionaire’s tax.” The AUDIO of the Firefighters Memorial Ceremony was played. Firefighters were remembered and current firefighters were honored. A Firefighters Commentary with Werner Poegel.

  ---

• View of PD (6/20/2025)

  

  Construction Fence is Down and Landscaping Fence is Up with Great view of PD

  The Gardner Police Department with its beautiful Big Chair entrance was easily visible on Friday June 2025 as workers were putting up landscaping fence around the former Rome building lot.

  The building was recently torn down and at least portions of the lot are expected to be sold at some point by the City of Gardner through an RFP process. Residents are hoping part of the plans include allowing a left turn from Willow Street to Main Street – previously not possible due to the obstruction by the building which is now gone.

  ---

• Greenwood Open (6/20/2025)

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson explained cause of the short delay in opening on WGAW Hotline Radio. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Greenwood Pool Open for Season

  Greenwood Pool opened for the season on Friday June 20, 2025. Hours are Monday through Saturday noon to 5pm and lap swim on Fridays from 9:30-11:30am. Daily fee is Adults $5, Children $4, Seniors and Veterans $3. Season passes save 50 cents per adult visit and $1 per child visit. Passes are available online, CLICK HERE

  Greenwood Pool will be open extended hours through 7pm on Monday June23rd and Tuesday June 24th due to the expected hot weather.

  ---

• Health June ’25 (6/20/2025)

  

  June Board of Health Meeting Reveals Daily Challenges of Department

  The June 16, 2025 Gardner Board of Health meeting lasted almost an hour. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The Board of Health meeting covered a wide range of topics. A citizen was there to provide comments on the landfill and ask questions. An engineer spoke about a variance request via speakerphone. The group discussed regulations via private wells. Director Micah Blondeau updated the Board regarding the leachate pump project stating that a 2nd company went out to the landfill that day for the purpose of preparing an estimate. Results of landfill monitoring are expected any day now. Since the last meeting 29 routine food inspections and 40 housing inspections were conducted. There were no foodborne illness complaints. National Night Out is being planned by Prevention Coordinator Veronica Patty.

  Assistant Director Angela DiPrima reported on challenges faced dealing with one particular food establishment (name was not given) with repeat violations every year since 2023 regarding expiring foods and dirty coolers. Last visit and citation was June 10th. Next step might be a possible suspension.

  ---

• Outages 6-20-25 (6/20/2025)

  

  

  Update 2:30pm on 6-20-25

  Almost 1500 still out, says reassessing condition?

  Power Out in South Gardner MA – Cause and Status Unknown

  Shortly after noon on Friday, June 20, 2025, the power went out to more than 2500 electric customers in the South Gardner area. As of 1:30pm, power was still out to 2,687 customers. While the estimated restoration time is listed as 2:15pm, the case status is listed as unassigned. Outage map, CLICK HERE

  In another outage situation: Gardner City Hall did not have internet service on Friday, June 20, 2025. City Hall uses comcast. As of the 1pm closing time for City Hall, the service was still out.

  Gardner Magazine will provide more information as available. UPDATE 6-20-25 940pm: While most all of the power was restored hours ago, less than 5 customers are reportedly still without power at this hour and the estimated restoration time is about 10pm.

  ---

• Fireworks 2025 (6/20/2025)

  

  Fireworks and Music Details for Saturday, June 21st

  Fireworks will fill the sky over Kendall Pond after dusk on Saturday June 21, 2025. (Approximately 9pm) The Gardner Polish American Citizens Club advises that once their parking lot is full, parking will be at the Gardner Airport with shuttles running every 15 minutes from 2pm until after the fireworks. Food trucks expected are Shane’s Hot Dogs, Diavuolo Pizza, Isabella’s Ice Cream, and Monty’s Candy Clouds. A wide array of refreshments will be available. There’s live music all day with Point the Finger from 2 to 5pm and Maximum Recoil from 6-10pm. Admission is FREE and there is no cover charge. PACC asks that people do not bring outside coolers, drinks or food.

  At the Lithuanian Beach Club, you can relax by the beach enjoying the music and your favorite beverages. Music is from 7-11pm with The Phukovs and the Mistreaters – Atomic Blues and Electrifying Rock. Admission is FREE. Location: 23 Airport Road, Gardner.

  Earlier in the day, the Small Business Saturday and Happy 240^th Gardner Birthday celebration takes place in Downtown Gardner. Scroll down this page for the previous article with all the details, or CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Firefighters – Razzmatazz (6/20/2025)

  

  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.

  ---

• ZBA 6-17-25 (6/19/2025)

  

  Last Spring Meeting of ZBA for 2025

  The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals held a 2 hour meeting on June 17, 2025 to go over more than a half dozen different cases. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Changing a two family to a three family, constructing two multi-family dwelling, condo driveways, reduce a front setback, a variance extension request, and a request for a special permit to clear land, install fence, gravel, and seasonal open storage. The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals is now 5 members.

  ---

• Stephanie Drive (6/18/2025)

  

  First Day of Summer to Bring Milling and Grinding to Stephanie Drive

  Gardner Paving Plan in Motion: As more paving gets underway in the City of Gardner, Stephanie Drive (off West Broadway) is scheduled for milling and grinding on Friday, June 20, 2025, the first day of summer. As a mile of paved road now costs about a million dollars, funding Gardner receives from the State of MA covers less than a mile of pavement and Gardner has 100 miles of roads. There are some funds in the City budget and Gardner Mayor Nicholson has asked the City Council to allocate a higher percentage of FREE CASH to paving than was done prior to Nicholson taking office.

  From the City of Gardner: “On Friday, June 20th Stephanie Drive is scheduled for milling/grinding in preparation for paving. Expect temporary detours and road closures.” Gardner Magazine will alert you to more paving announcements as they occur.

  ---

• Paving Man (6/18/2025)

  

  The “Paving Man” is saluted by Gardner Magazine in original song

  Everyone wants to see the paving man. Everyone wants their street to be first. Arguably, the paving man is one of the most popular characters in the City or Town. Listen to the fun tune on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “I can go on any City street, and the pleading starts from fifteen feet. When are you coming to do my road?, It’s shabby in front of my abode!…Fund me, fund me please, I will do the roads with ease, a million bucks does only a mile, the cost really cramps my style….I do as much as I can do, paving another avenue…”
  

  ---

• Juneteenth 2025 (6/18/2025)

  

  Juneteenth Celebrated on Thursday, June 19, 2025 – Federal, State, Local Offices Closed

  Juneteenth is a Federal Holiday celebrated annually on June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. This is the 5th year the holiday has been celebrated. Federal, State, and local offices will be closed. Most retailers and private businesses will remain open.

  Gardner Magazine put out an original song last Fall created from an original Juneteenth poem written by Werner Poegel. This year, the song has been redone in various genres. The powerful theme states the following: “The sentient soul is only free amidst absolute equality. White, black, brown, or blue, every color of the rainbow too. Differences embraced as perfect creations of a loving God. Discrimination disgraced as perpetrating the ultimate fraud…This is the Sentient Soul of American Freedom, all of us equal as God’s will be done.” Differences are simply variations on perfection.

  Listen to “Sentient Soul” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  

  ---

• Bergstrom 6-17-25 (6/17/2025)

  

  Small Business Saturday – Happy Birthday Gardner Interview with Patti Bergstrom

  

  Patti Bergstrom is one of Gardner’s Super Heroes who loves Gardner and loves her Downtown. Bergstrom was chosen to help coordinate Downtown Gardner events for June 21, 2025 and we had the honor of conducting an interview. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  All the details on the exciting events and activities for the entire family. The shopping. The many vendors. The non-profits. The delicious food. Patti Bergstrom covers it all. It all starts at 10am in Downtown Gardner on Saturday, June 21st. Later in the evening there will be Fireworks at Kendall Pond and FREE CONCERTS at both the PACC and the Lithuanian Beach Club

  Click on any of the following images for a larger view. Downtown Shops – Schedule – Vendors

  

  

  

  

  ---

• City Council 6-16-25 (6/17/2025)

  

  Gardner City Council Approves Budget for Fiscal Year 2026

  The Gardner City Council met on June 16, 2025 and approved the various zoning ordinances and financial ordinances. The overall budget was reduced by the salary item which the Council restricted to the original increase. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Card Man (6/15/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Card Man” – an original Soul song

  Those who struggle with answers and the decisions of life will identify with this original Soul song, “Card Man” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song” Oh, oh, oh, oh, I struggle so, took myself where I could go, still looking for the answers, hoping someone really cares….Help me, help me to find my way, to see the brightness in the day, direct the sunshine to my way, know that I’ll, that I’ll, be okay… I’m the card man, playing with a full deck…”

  ---

• Relay Ends (6/14/2025)

  

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life Ends Close to Goal

  With about $35k to go, the Relay for Life is close to its goal. To donate, visit the Greater Gardner Relay for Life page, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Hotline 6-14-25 (6/14/2025)

  

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life Highlight of WGAW Hotline Radio

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of June 14, 2025 featured the Relay for Life opening ceremonies. Listen to the complete program on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Segments of the show: Mayor Nicholson Update –Mayor Michael Nicholson Update —- Greater Gardner Relay for Life opening ceremonies including remarks of local officials, a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, and other comments and blessings. The relay began with the Survivors Lap of Hope —- How to be a “Hotline Hero” and promote your Non-profit on Hotline —- Positive Commentary on Extraordinary Gardner Educators byWerner Poegel —- Massachusetts State Senator Peter Durante regarding budget matters, state funding, and various projects.

  To get your Non-profit on Hotline Radio, simply call (978) 632-1340

  ---

• Burger and Fries (6/13/2025)

  

  “I’ve got my eyes, got my eyes, on a big burger and fries, I don’t want a fast food surprise, just a big burger and fries.”

  Gardner Magazine Releases a very fun and funky original song “Burger and Fries”

  Listen to the song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A real fun version: JAZZ FUNK:

  Other versions, all funky, all fun in different ways:

  ---

• Relay Update (6/13/2025)

  

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life on now through Saturday June 14th at 2pm

  They are like heroes out of a comic book. They are the fundraisers for the Greater Gardner Relay for Life which began Friday June 13^th. As of early Friday evening, the relay was at more than 75% of its $168,000 goal with just $40,000 to go. The Relay for Life runs through Saturday, June 14th at 2pm.

  With every donation, you are helping the American Cancer Society save lives.

  For inspiration, listen to our original song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• This Week 6-13-25 (6/13/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” – an update on what’s going on in Gardner Massachusetts

  This program is a weekly news magazine strictly about Gardner. Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Budget Scrutiny — Explanation of 3 Deep Dive podcasts about Gardner Public Schools — Library Summer Reading —- Terri Hillman Retirement — School Committee — Construction projects — Explanation on the Greenwood demolition delay — Summer Concert Series — Junior Police Academy — Beach Boys Tribute — original songs released — upcoming events — upcoming meetings.

  Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com

  ---

• Finance 6-12-25 (6/13/2025)

  

  More Budget Scrutiny by Finance Committee Leading to Monday Council Meeting

  The Finance Committee of the Gardner City Council met on June 12, 2025 to further review budget matters and ask additional questions of Department Heads. The committee recommended the Council approve the Capital Improvement Plan. Upon various reviews, various other monetary recommendations were made. Amended Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. Listen to the Finance Committee meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City Council is meeting on June 16, 2025 at which time the budget is expected to be passed with any cuts made by the Council. 323 page Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. The Council will hear a report from the Welfare Committee relating to 3 zoning ordinances on the agenda for approval at the meeting. From the Finance Committee there a few dozen items relating to various expenditures – Listed as Committee of the Whole are even more orders and the School, Municipal, and Enterprise budgets for fiscal year 2026. Details are in the agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. The budget must be approved prior to the start of the 2026 Fiscal year on July 1, 2025.

  ---

• Town Crier 9 (6/12/2025)

  

  Stephanie Lahtinen with Me, Myself, and Your Questions

  The Town Crier is a podcast produced by the Town of Westminster and hosted by Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen. In this episode released June 12, 2025, various constituent questions are answered. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Topics covered included the annual town meeting, cell service coverage in Westminster, the Westminster Country Club property, The Old Town Hall, and the Adams Street 4db Project, and the Academy Hill playground. Lahtinen ended the podcast with an announcement of various events in the community. Visit the podcast page, CLICK HERE

  On cell service: “We currently own and operate a communications tower on South Ashburnham Road. You can see it if you drive down South Ash Road, it’s, you know, probably like 500 yards off the street. And so now we are, we have a RFP out, so a request for proposals for private cell carriers to lease space from the town and put their equipment on our tower.”

  On the Old Town Hall: “So the Old Town Hall, the plan is for it to be redeveloped with a historic preservation restriction. So the building will look exactly basically as it looks right now. All of the character, the historic structures, everything will be maintained and it’s going to have commercial on the first floor and the top two floors are planned for apartments. So the Old Town Hall will be fully rehabilitated. The building will be saved.”

  ---

• Hotline Hero (6/12/2025)

  

  Hotline Radio is a Saturday interview program on Gardner’s WGAW Radio heard Saturdays noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1FM, and streaming worldwide. To be a Hotline Hero and get your non-profit featured on the show, call host Steve Wendell at (978) 632-1340

  Gardner Magazine Honors Long-Running “Hotline Radio” with original Hit Song

  Many guests on WGAW’s Hotline Radio wear an appearance as a badge of honor and so is born the original song “Hotline Hero” available in a number of genres. Listen on any device.

  For more about WGAW or to listen live 24/7, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Relay Friday (6/11/2025)

  

  The Greater Gardner Relay for Life is Friday June 13th and Saturday June 14th. Theme of 2025 is “Journey of Hope”.

  Greater Gardner Relay for Life is Friday June 13th

  Weather Outlook: Friday June 13^th looks like a very nice day with clouds and sunshine and a high of 76. Saturday is a bit iffy with showers in the morning and otherwise cooler with variable cloudiness and a temperature around 63.

  Timeline: Grounds open at about 3pm and some food trucks will already be there. The relay begins Friday at 6pm and goes overnight through Saturday at 2pm, a total of 20 hours. Location is the grounds of Mount Wachusett Community College at 444 Green Street, Gardner. Complete schedule, CLICK HERE. The Survivors Reception begins at 3:30pm and the Opening Ceremonies begin at 6pm. Various themed hours are scheduled from Friday evning, night and overnight all the way to Saturday afternoon

  Fundraising: As of 2 days before the relay, $117,000 out of a goal of $168,000 had been raised. For more information, CLICK HERE.

  Food vendors Friday June 13th: Big T’s Jerky House and Maddy’s Ice Cream arrive at 3pm. Kona Ice, Shane’s Hot Dogs, and Uncle Joey’s Canoli’s arrive at 4pm. All will be on hand to about 9 to 10pm. Food vendors Saturday June 14th include breakfast at 7am with the Westminster Cafe and Maddy’s and the rest of the above starting at about 10am.

  ---

• GPS 6-11-25 (6/11/2025)

  

  Exploring Gardner MA Public Schools Improvement Plan, Student Handbook, and Bullying Policy.

  Gardner Magazine explored in detail the Gardner Public Schools 3 year Improvement Plan, the Gardner Student Handbook, and the Gardner Public Schools Bullying Policy. Each is featured in a “Deep Dive” podcast. We also feature the actual documents for your review.

  Gardner Public Schools 3 Year Improvement Plan. Document, CLICK HERE. “Deep Dive” listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Public Student Handbook. Document, CLICK HERE. Unpack the crucial info with the “Deep Dive”. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY

  Gardner Public Schools Bullying Policy. Document, CLICK HERE. “Deep Dive” listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Beach Boys (6/11/2025)

  

  A Tribute to Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys

  Brian Wilson, founding member of the iconic group “The Beach Boys” passed away at the age of 82. In this Gardner Magazine review, we feature 12 of the best songs. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  More on the Beach boys, CLICK HERE.

  More specifically about the life of Brian Wilson, CLICK HERE.

  Official website of The Beach Boys, CLICK HERE.

  Our deepest condolences to fans, friends, and family.

  ---

• Reading 2025 (6/10/2025)

  

  Levi-Heywood Memorial Library to Kick Off Summer Reading Events

  The Levi-Heywood Memorial Library is kicking off its Summer Reading Program at Wednesday, June 25th. To view any of the images in this article in a larger view, just click on the image. Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” podcast explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  For more information at any time, visit the Levi Heywood Memorial Library website, CLICK HERE.

  PRINTABLE PDF of Summer Reading program, CLICK HERE

  

  

  

  

  ---

• Flag Day (6/10/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine releases the song “Flag Day” in honor of Flag Day, June 14, 2025

  By resolution of the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777, a flag of the United States was established. The resolution stated, “That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white. That the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

  Gardner Magazine is releasing this original patriotic song, “Flag Day” to help in the celebration. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Chorus from the song “Flag day celebrates the flag of our nation, it is a red, white, and blue occasion, to celebrate our American persuasion, Flag Day celebrates the flag of our nation,”

  ---

• School Committee 6-9-25 (6/10/2025)

  

  School Committee Meets, Terri Hillman Retires after 30 Years

  The Gardner MA School Committee met on June 9,2025. Following a positive Superintendent evaluation, the Gardner Superintendent was granted a 5% raise. However, Dr. Pellegrino said he would only accept a 2% raise, same as the teachers.

  Superintendent Pellegrino reviewed the District Improvement Plan Related Goals of 2024 to 2027 and spoke of the complete details including specifics on student behavior. The superintendent went through each section and commented on progress. The video of the meeting shows various charts. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  There was about 8 minutes of School Committee comments at the end of the meeting from all of the members. Recording Secretary Terri Hillman is retiring after 3 decades. It was her last meeting. This is what she said. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The School Committee meets next in September.

  ---

• Council 6-9-25 (6/10/2025)

  

  Zoning Matters and Budget subject of 2 City Council meetings

  Gardner City Council Held Public Hearings on 3 Zoning Matters on June 9, 2025 in conjunction with the Planning Board. The meeting began with a presentation by Attorney Christine Tree followed by the 3 public hearings. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Prior to the 3 public hearings, there was another informal meeting regarding the fiscal year 2026 budget. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Gardner City Council will be meeting again on June 16, 2025. The budget needs to be approved prior to July 1^st.

  ---

• Kurt Krakane (6/10/2025)

  

  Kurt Krakane of Westminster MA Among Academy Graduates

  For the 63rd time, the correctional officers oath was administered to graduates of the Worcester Country Sheriff’s Basic Recruit Academy located at the department’s Training and Command Center in West Boylston. On Friday, June 6, 2025, Worcester Country Sheriff Lew Evangelidis swore in Kurt Krane of Westminster and 15 others.

  “After 13 rigorous weeks of training, I present the best and brightest in corrections today,” commented Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis. “The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Training Department is one of the best in the state, and I can confidently say that these individuals are ready to join the ranks as full-time corrections officers and contribute to successfully executing our mission. Congratulations to these graduates as they begin their new careers.” Applications are now being accepted for the 64th class to begin in September 2025. Learn more, CLICK HERE.

  Before starting the academy, applicants must complete a written exam, a physical fitness test, a background check, and a psychological screening. To ensure fairness and impartiality, Evangelidis has implemented a policy that prohibits letters of recommendation from politicians and gives preference to hiring individuals who have served our country.

  
  The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Academy offers a paid, full-time program lasting 13 weeks, designed to equip recruits with the skills needed to manage and maintain the care, custody, and control of inmates at the Worcester County Jail & House of Correction. The academy includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

  

  While at the academy, recruits undergo extensive training in various aspects of corrections. This training includes skills such as de-escalation techniques, the duty to intervene, fire safety, defensive tactics, and first responder protocols. They also receive education in suicide prevention, mental health issues, and substance abuse awareness. In addition, recruits engage in daily physical fitness sessions, take weekly assessments on classroom material, and benefit from regular guest lectures and demonstrations provided by a range of public safety partners.

  The Sheriff’s office stated, “The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring public safety across the cities and towns in Worcester County. The department recognizes the importance of building a team that reflects the diverse community it serves. The graduates of B.R.T.A. #63 represent a highly qualified group of recruits, each bringing unique skills and experiences to their new roles as correctional officers. These officers come from nine different towns throughout Massachusetts and include 6 individuals who are either active members or veterans of the U.S. Army.”

  ---

• Gardner Educators (6/9/2025)

  

  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.”

  ---

• Construction 6-9-25 (6/9/2025)

  

  

  Construction Season in Full Swing in City of Gardner – Mayor Shares Photos and Details

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson issued a statement to inform residents about various construction projects in the City as of June 9, 2025.

  Mayor Nicholson stated, “Construction season is in full swing in the City of Gardner! Make sure to keep an eye out when traveling in these areas of the city as there may be detours while these projects continue.

  – Work on Phase 2 of the Rear Main Street project has started up again with work starting on the foundation of the project. This location will have a new parking lot, event plaza, food truck court, water feature, and grass area.

  – Work to re-pave Crystal Lake Drive (from Abbott Street through Crystal Lake Cemetery) has started with the road being pulverized today. This work is being done both to repair the road and connect the bike trail behind the Greenwood Pool to the trail made around Crystal Lake on the other side of the Cemetery.

  – DPW Crews are installing a new water main on Elizabeth Street. Once the pipe is installed and the trench settled, the goal is to then re-pave Elizabeth Street, including adding new sidewalks.

  – Unitil is currently installing new, updated Natural Gas Lines on Crystal Lake Drive (not in the same location being paved above) and Abbott Street.

  – Lastly, new sidewalks are being worked on at the former Rome Building site, as the loam and seeding work is done. The Gardner Redevelopment Authority owns this site and is looking to sell the property for future commercial development once the construction work is completed.

  Thank you to all of the crews and contractors performing the work, city officials for reviewing the plans, permits, designs, and proposals for these projects, and our partners in local, state, and federal government for the various funding proposals and grants that make these projects possible. It’s great to see Gardner continue to move forward and progress continue to be seen every day.”

  ---

• Editorial $2.24 (6/9/2025)

  

  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.

  ---

• Ready for the Music (6/8/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases a music-lovers compilation “Ready for the Music”

  “Ready for the Music” is a feel-good song about a music hound who loves music from classic rock, Pop Rock, the Beatles, the Oldies, Country, and Folk. Listen to “Ready for the Music” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The City of Gardner, Massachusetts has a huge series of Summer Concerts at Monument Park, the Polish American Citizens Club, and the Lithuanian Beach Club.

  Article: PACC and Lithuanian Club, CLICK HERE.

  Article: Concerts at Monument Park, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Hotline 6-7-25 (6/7/2025)

  

  Gardner – Templeton – Hubbardston Featured on WGAW Hotline Radio

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

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of June 7, 2025 features a Huge Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson including the regular weekly update in the first hour and a more comprehensive half hour extended update in the second hour.

  Host Steve Wendell spoke with newly elected Templeton Select Board member Candy Graves on Templeton recreation and other items.

  Hubbardston Town Administrator Nathan Boudreau and Town Clerk Melody Green were on the Hotline speaking of what’s going on in the town of Hubbardston.

  There was a very interesting ABC Update on the Chinese Fungus Plot. As Host Steve Wendell put it “We are at war with China.”

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel provided details on the 3 Summer Concert series coming to Gardner this year including the concerts at Monument Park, Polish American Citizens Club, and the Lithuanian Beach Club.

  ---

• Devel 6-6-25 (6/6/2025)

  

  Proposed 180 Unit Development Discussed

  The Gardner Development Review Committee met on June 6, 2025 and discussed the Harbor Classic Homes LLC proposal for 90 duplexes at Clark Street & Century Way. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• This Week 6-6-25 (6/6/2025)

  

  Gardner Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for June 6, 2025

  Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  News: Graduations Held and Honors Bestowed – Summer Concert Announcements – Gardner City Council on Non-union salaries – Junior Police Academy – Relay for Life – Flood Maps – Election

  Songs Released by Gardner Magazine

  Events in the Chair City

  Upcoming Meetings

  ---

• Various Links to Various Content

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Here is something we are working on: A new and improved Greater Gardner MA Photo Gallery.

  

  

  
  All Sports Page features 8 categories of sports – Major League Baseball, NFL Football, NBA Basketball, National Hockey League, College Football, College Basketball, Professional Golf. CLICK HERE.

  

  
  Here are the State News pages on Gardner Magazine: — Massachusetts 1, — Massachusetts 2, — New Hampshire, — Connecticut, — Vermont, — Rhode Island, — and Maine. — Plus, California, — New York

  

  
  Here are the various news pages on various U.S. Topics including: Capitol Hill — , Lifestyle — , Financial — , Technology —, Showbiz —, Top U.S. Stories —, U.S. Debt Clock — , Economy —, United States News. —