Greater Gardner MA News October 2023
- Before – After (10/31/2023)
Answer to what happened in August, September, October 2023 – the largest table of data we’ve ever posted on Gardner Magazine.
Objective Data: More achieved in last 3 months since our interview than some Mayors achieve in a year. We took the information straight from our news articles, so if you want to read all the details, just select an archive page from the top of this page.
Before and After 2020 to 2023 – The Interview
Gardner Mayor Nicholson agreed to talk to us about the Before and After from Spring 2020 to Fall 2023 in great detail. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Before and After – Mayor Nicholson 11-2-23 We covered everything in every category in this interview. We spoke about what people notice coming in to Gardner and how that came about.
Mayor Nicholson told us of some of the common sense changes he has made to handling various matters and what the results have been. The Mayor has stated that “People are Policy” and he spoke in great detail about the focus in the City of helping to make the lives of people better.
Our interview includes a discussion of positive changes in Gardner education.
Mayor Nicholson explained what has transpired in terms of long-term infrastructure.
The Mayor outlined efforts regarding the environment. Progress with respect to business and industry in the Chair City was discussed.
We went over transparency and learned that some of what Mayor Nicholson does is being adopted by other communities due to Gardner’s strong record in communicating with the public in various ways he outlines.
The Mayor spoke about finances and his efforts on keeping taxes as low as possible. We went into great detail on how the City of Gardner is practicing sound fiscal policy. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Before and After – Mayor Nicholson 11-2-23 Before…, …After, – What’s happened since our July 2023 Interview
So what’s happened in 3 short months since our July 2023 interview with Mayor Michael Nicholson during which we spoke of the last 3 years of success? First, listen to the original interview on any device. CLICK PLAY. (Then listen to the November 2, 2023 Before and After Interview where we go over everything.)
JULY 2020 to July 2023 The theory we explored is that past performance is a predictor of future behavior, and that if reelected, Mayor Nicholson would continue to excel. So let’s put this to an objective test. In August, September, and October 2023, let’s list out what happened.
3 months of August – September – October 2023 Oct. – Uptown Rotary Project Work begins Oct – Progress on Paving – Promise Kept Oct. – Grants: Funding for Development and for a new Master Plan for the City Oct. – Nicholson’s DPW Director and City Engineer Come up with Dog Park Piping Plan Oct. – Promised Landscaping and Playground at GES showcased Oct. – Facade Work in Downtown Gardner to a number of buildings Oct. Growing Places reaches Licensing Agreement and opens Kitchen at Waterford Oct. Citizen Dialog regarding Policing in the City Oct. Mayor makes effort to recognize 3 important national months in Gardner Oct. Team member Assessor Christine Kumar gets no questions from DOR on values submitted – Job well done Oct. Team member Paul Topolski and Mayor brief City Council on Disaster Response Plans Oct. Lower electric rates on City Plan take effect 11/1 Oct. Higher Reading Scores Announced and Progress on Training Staff for Medical Emergencies Oct. Airport Master Plan Takes Next Steps Oct. Governor Chooses Gardner to Announce Tax Cuts – Nicholson deemed a partner in cutting taxes Oct. – Free cash certified at earliest time in about 4 decades Oct. – Enterprise Funds healthy Sept. – Mayor prominent participant at Oktoberfest Sept. – Bailey Brook Park Amenities Announced Sept. – MART announces selection of Mayor Michael Nicholson for another term as Chair of Advisory Board Sept. – Waterford St. School Active Construction Site Sept. – Team members at Gardner PD have a new drone Sept. – Downtown Festival and Oktoberfest now officially combined event – Festival Committee bringing community together. Sept. – Mayor receives endorsement for Environmental Work Sept. Team Member Lynette Gabrilla appointed by Governor to Veterans Equality Review Board and process started to honor Goldstar families Sept. Mayor honors Hispanics for 3rd year in a row with Mariachi Band Sept. – Mayor waives Yard Sale Permit Fee Sept. – Successful Centennial Parade gets compliments Sept. Gardner shines during storm offering aid to neighboring Leominster Sept. Acclaimed hire Tom Zuppa as Building Commissioner announces progress at Public Safety Committee meeting Sept. Mayor continues with unprecedented transparency with Video and written material regarding charter changes Sept. Education Progress announced – Gardner way ahead on various programs – Great news on grants Sept. Effort to increase dedicated support to infrastructure projects explored re DIF Aug. – Initial Idea of West Street Parking Garage announced Aug. – CDBG Grant Awards Announced ($1.65million) also Helps Homeless and After school programs, funding towards elimination of athletic user fees Aug. – New grocery store, Aldi, gets green light Aug. – Gardner Hosts Open House re updating 100+ year old Electric Transmission lines which run through Gardner. Aug. to Oct – More businesses open, Nicholson’s end of year estimate of 12 already exceeded. Aug. – Nicholson demonstrates commitment to affordable housing with visit of Cabinet Secretary Ed Augustus. Aug. – First window goes in to historic Garbose Building Aug. – $200,000 fiber optic grant announced – huge tech upgrade for City Aug. – Nicholson at National Night Out – highlights in weekly update at location Aug. – Wood’s Plus starts service – states idea born out of conversations with Mayor Nicholson about transportation needs in Gardner.
- Carolyn Kamuda (10/31/2023)
Candidate Self-Profile – Carolyn Kamuda for Councilor at Large – Gardner MA
Carolyn Kamuda is a candidate for the upcoming Gardner election on November 7th. She is running for Councilor at Large. She wrote the following self-profile. We will run submissions from any candidate. Simply email to News@GardnerMagazine.com.
from Carolyn Kamuda
“1. I have been a resident of Gardner for over 35 years and a homeowner for 27 of those years.
2. I have owned and run small businesses in Gardner – Kamuda Real Estate, Kamuda Photography and I started the first art gallery at 371 Main Street known as Surroundings Gallery, now owned by Chuck & Vickie Heidorn.
3. I have served in a professional capacity on the Board of Realtors as a Director, a member of the membership services committee as well as the Education and Ethics Committee. I have won several awards such as the Realtor Honor Society, the Banker and Tradesman Leaders Making a Difference and the highest sales award (The Platinum Award) for real estate sales.
4. I have served in Gardner on the Habitat for Humanity Family Selection Committee, the School Building Needs Committee, the Massachusetts Cultural Council (formerly known as the Arts Lottery Council) and have been a former member of the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce where I served as an Ambassador. I have also been a member of the First Baptist Church in South Gardner where I participated on the Executive Committee and Church Choir.
5. I am a graduate of Keene State College with a degree in Chemistry and Biology and a minor in Art. I also have taken graduate courses at Boston University and Anna Maria College.
6. I founded the Greater Gardner Artist Association in 1988 with a grant from the Mass. Cultural Council. I facilitated the development of the Non-profit legal work and guided the association during its formative years.
All of what I wrote here is fine and I am very accomplished, but the real question is “What am I going to do?” The answer is that I am going to do my best to help Gardner grow in a positive direction, I will scrutinize the budget to make sure your tax dollars are going to be spent wisely, and I will serve the citizens and always work in their best interest. I call Gardner my home and want to continue to be proud of where I live. Serving as City Councilor will help with that goal, not only for me but for you.
Thank you for your time. I appreciate you and humbly ask for your vote next Tuesday.”
– Carolyn Kamuda, Candidate for Councilor at Large
- Project in Faith (10/31/2023)
Gardner Magazine Launches Project in Faith
The project is simple: Increase awareness of God and His importance to our daily lives. Through this, promote the values espoused by the Holy Bible. Here’s what we want to do: Enhance our coverage of Churches and Faith-based organizations. Improve our coverage of Faith-based events. Too often, God is missing in the media and the words “Jesus Christ” are not even mentioned. Let’s change that. We would be glad to add an AUDIO interview about your church to our pages.
Email information about your church or faith-based organization to News@GardnerMagazine.com. And we will also take any advice we can get from any experts on this subject. Our current Churches page is found here.
- Recycling – Oct. (10/30/2023)
Gardner MA Health Department Captures Teaching Moment on Recycling
Recycling is great because it helps the environment, but unfortunately not everything can go to the recycling bin. The Gardner Health Department posted, “Here’s a scary Halloween story…candy wrappers in the recycling bin! Candy wrappers are NOT recyclable. Enjoy your treat stash, then send the wrappers to the trash. “
It’s easy to look up what can be recycled. The Gardner Health Department recommends Recyclopedia which has a convenient search function and great info. CLICK HERE.
There’s a great Frequently Asked Questions page.
- Paul Tassone (10/30/2023)
Candidate Self-Profile – Paul Tassone for Ward 3 Councilor – Gardner MA
Paul Tassone is a candidate for the upcoming Gardner election on November 7th. He is running for Ward 3 Councilor. He wrote the following self-profile. We will run submissions from any candidate. Simply email to News@GardnerMagazine.com.
from Paul Tassone
I am Paul Tassone, and I have had the privilege of serving as your Ward 3 City Councilor this year. With over 30 years of business and civic leadership experience, I understand both the opportunities and challenges facing our residents and local businesses. My service on the School Committee and Redevelopment Authority has provided invaluable insight into improving our schools, infrastructure, and economy. More importantly, i am invested in this community as a fellow resident, raised my family here. I am committed to preserving Gardner’s hometown spirit while fostering new business opportunities. With your partnership, I believe we can shape and even brighter future. I would be honored to have your support, but more importantly, I want to hear your voice. Thank you for considering me as your advocate on the City Council. I look forward to working hand-in-hand with you to build upon the growth and heart of our city”
– Paul Tassone Ward 3 Gardner City Councilor
- Gardner Chronicle (10/29/2023)
Gardner Square Two Inc. reminds area TV viewers of Gardner on TV
Gardner’s Downtown Association, Gardner Square Two Inc. posted, “Exciting News! —- Gardner will be featured on Chronicle in the upcoming episode “Main Streets and Back Roads of the Mohawk Trail” It’s airing on Monday, October 30th at 7:30pm on WCVB Channel 5. Filming took place 2 weeks ago at The Velvet Goose, The Gardner Museum, The Big Chair, and at other local spots.”
Gardner has been featured on TV before. In June of this year, the Parker House of Pizza was featured on New England Perspectives showcasing various food, and of course, pizza. Click here for that article.
More about Downtown Gardner
For more than 5 pages of Gardner Magazine article listings regarding Downtown Gardner (you can click through to each full article) – CLICK HERE.
- Alek Dernalowicz (10/29/2023)
Candidate Self-Profile – Alek Dernalowicz for Ward 5 Councilor – Gardner MA
Alek Dernalowicz is a candidate for the upcoming Gardner election on November 7th. He furnished us with the following self-profile. We will run submissions from any candidate. Simply email to News@GardnerMagazine.com.
Alek Dernalowicz Submission
“My name is Alek Dernalowicz and I am running for re-election as the Ward 5 City Councillor. I have served in this role since January of 2020. While I am running unopposed, I wanted to take the opportunity offered by The Gardner Magazine to reach out to the residents of Gardner.
It is my close ties to Gardner that motivates me to run for office. My family has always been active in the community and it was ingrained that public service was to be held in the highest regard. My role as a Councillor allows me to continue that tradition of service.
I grew up in Gardner and graduated from Gardner High in 2001. I graduated from UMass-Amherst and Suffolk University Law School in Boston. I am the fourth generation to own my family home, where I live with my wife, Angela, and our children.
I have been a licensed attorney since 2010, working in areas of the law ranging from Social Security Disability and Veterans Benefits to pursuing claims against the manufacturers of faulty medical devices and defective pharmaceuticals. Prior to that, I held jobs in a wide range of fields such as construction, customer service, and education that provided me with great experiences and perspectives.
Over my almost 4 years on the Council, Gardner has made great strides forward. The pairing of public and private money has spurred an extraordinary amount of investment throughout our City. In South Gardner alone we have seen Community Health Connections open a brand new Health and Urgent Care Center, the construction of Timpany Crossroads, and the old Pewter Owl building being replaced by Gardner Spirits. Prospect Street School has been sold with plans for new housing. At Timpany Plaza, new businesses have moved in, while others are in the construction or planning phases.
As we have all seen, investment and transformation is happening throughout Gardner. Downtown is seeing an unprecedented overhaul. There are new parks and playgrounds. Blighted buildings are being revitalized or demolished. All these actions are a group effort from private actors to employees of the City; elected or otherwise. It has been an honor to be a part of this effort. I am excited for the future of The Chair City and I appreciate your consideration when you head to the polls on November 7th.”
- Unfounded Attacks (10/28/2023)
Peter Sargent 
Kimberly Blake, candidate for Mayor – Supporters are threatening businesses. Blake called out on WGAW Hotline Radio for the illegal threats made by her supporters.
Two-time Blake Donor Caught Making Unfounded Attacks on Business in Gardner MA – Blake Supporters Threaten Downtown Businesses
Peter Sargent, who goes by Piper Tulloch on Social Media has been bashing Gardner for allowing properties to be sold to the Millennium Holding Group. Sargent posted, “As this administration works to get buildings back on line utilizing Millennium Holding Group rather than a more community-oriented organization it is impressive how they are pouring money into Gardner and how they are causing real estate prices to balloon.” He accuses them of getting wealthy off our “little city” when of course so far all they have been doing is mostly incurring expenses of building repairs and interest on construction loans. However, the irony is that this penalized Gardner attorney, (see Telegram article from 2014, CLICK HERE) actually sold a property this year to the very group he is criticizing. While criticizing others for benefiting monetarily from property sales to Millennium, Sargent himself sold his former law office building at 82-84 Main Street to a Millennium Group entity. Gardner Magazine spoke with Jon Bombaci on October 28, 2023 and he confirmed that Sargent knew exactly to whom he was selling.
Jon Bombaci responded, “…our focus was to buy the worst buildings we could find at numbers that made sense. In Gardner specifically, along with the other investors working in the city, we’re starting to see the tide in the downtown turn. But that said I honestly believe we haven’t had much impact on the local real estate market in terms of rent and pricing.” It should be noted that Jon Bombaci has made an effort to purchase locally. Windows at the Garbose Building were purchased from Maki which makes them in Gardner. Bombaci states, “about 75-80% of routine maintenance stuff for the management company is handled by local contractors…on the bigger stuff it’s probably more like 40-50% to local companies.” on 2-10 Parker the windows and just about all supplies / material to date has come from Maki’s (local), the windows were installed by a local company, and the painting was done by a local company.
Blake Attacks Developer Without Cause
Kimberly Blake verbally attacked Jon Bombaci on Facebook, pushing the narrative that a previous owner of one of the properties purchased was “pushed out to make way for you… This whole beautification of downtown Gardner is a great (sic), but it’s also been strategic and played out…” Another false statement was “Those who have donated to him have a leg up, those who haven’t, they don’t matter.” The statement is patently false on its face because the properties were purchased from private sellers. Just like any other properties, they were listed online via MLS and anyone could purchase them if an offer was accepted by the seller. The only role that City Hall such as the Development Office plays is encouraging business to come to Gardner and advertising the Chair City as a good place to invest. If a developer asks if there are properties for sale, they may be directed to the appropriate Realtor. Publisher’s Note: It is unknown whether Blake simply doesn’t understand the process or makes the statements as some sort of attack strategy. Update 10-29-23 3pm: Jon Bombaci messaged me stating, “have to be honest I did not feel attacked by Kim. I can see how comments could be read that way but I felt no more attacked by her than I did by anyone else on that page.” Publisher’s Note: It is true that some of her supporters attacked him as well, but in the view of Gardner Magazine, only Blake is running for office and we thought that was more significant.
Blake Supporters Threatening Businesses
Some Blake supporters have been overtly vicious to supporters of Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on Facebook, but the situation has taken a more serious turn which Gardner Police may investigate. Businesses are being threatened by Blake supporters simply for having signs out for her opponent. Neither Gardner Magazine nor radio station WGAW will identify those businesses for fear that they might be targeted with harm. This is what Hotline Radio host and WGAW Owner Steve Wendell said on his show this week, (Saturday `10-28-23) “And I ran into some of my accounts this past week, and I understand that some of the supporters of Kimberly Blake, who is running for mayor, some of their supporters for the Kimberly Blake campaign are calling up, threatening and harassing different businesses in the Gardner area who happen to have posters or signs up of the opposing candidate. And they’re threatening the business owners in Gardner to put them out of business. So this harassment is going on not only in text messages, email messages, but also on Facebook, too. And this is not right and this has to stop.”
Kimberly Blake herself has a history of making false statements and attacks on Social Media. See our article on this earlier in the campaign. Recently, the campaign was ordered to forfeit funds to the State of MA due to an illegal fundraiser. See article and documentation . We have no way of contacting the Blake Campaign for comment because she has us blocked as well as any Gardner voter who dares to ask her either too many questions or those she doesn’t know how to answer. Fortunately, Election Day is coming up very soon on November 7th.
- Uptown Rotary (10/27/2023)
Work Begins on Uptown Rotary Project in Gardner MA
Cost of the project was projected at $2.6 million in 2020 when proposed and is being covered by grants. EH Perkins Construction is the Massachusetts Department of Transportation contractor handling the up to 18 month project with a completion goal of about a year from now. Purpose is to improve safety of the intersection by creating a better traffic flow. Drainage and utility work is beginning now.
According to Mass DOT, during typical construction operations, all roadways in the project area will remain open to vehicular traffic. Occasional short traffic disruptions and travel lane – shoulder – parking lane closures may occur. Pedestrian and vehicular access to abutting properties will be maintained throughout construction.
Details of the original proposed improvements included the reconstruction of the existing intersection to meet modern roundabout standards and the following:
Central truck apron, central landscape island, splitter islands at approaches, and re-aligned intersection approaches into the intersection • Splitter islands will form entry deflection angles to reduce vehicle speeds, improving pedestrian safety • Resurface the roadway, reset curb lines and modify drainage infrastructure within the project limits • Reconstruct existing sidewalk and install new sidewalk to enhance pedestrian accommodations throughout the project limits • Construct Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) / Architectural Access Board (AAB) compliant accessible sidewalks and curb ramps within the project limits • Stripe new high-visibility ladder-style crosswalks, STOP lines, centerlines, lane lines, gore areas, parking lanes, and shoulder lines within the project limits. • Install new traffic signage
- Update 10-27-23 (10/27/2023)
Mayor’s Update 10-27-23 Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson Updates the Chair City of Gardner
Mayor Nicholson took several minutes at the beginning of the update to speak about the tragedy which occurred in the City in the last week which left a mother dead, 4 children without parents, and a father on the run. He indicated more information would be disseminated once it is appropriate as investigation is ongoing. Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update 10-27-23 Events: Heywood Healthcare 5k – October 28, vendor tables open at 8am, race kicks off at 9am at the Heywood Hospital campus. —- Trick or Treat – October 31 from 5 to 7pm —- Municipal Election November 7th —-Regional Household Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday November 11th from 9 to noon at the Gardner Landfill and Transfer Station on West Street —- Veterans’ Day Exercises on November 11th at 11am at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall.
Reminders: 2nd quarter tax bills are due November 1st. —- Unpaid excise taxes should be paid to avoid additional fees. —- Water, sewer, trash bills are coming out
Projects: Work has begun on the Uptown Rotary – it’s an 18 month project – drainage and utility work is beginning now. Elsewhere in the City: Various paving gets started on October 30th. See other article detailing streets.
Grants: Funding for development in the Downtown and for a new Master Plan for the City.
- Fall Paving (10/26/2023)
Gardner MA City Hall Announces Paving Updates
Gardner City Hall announced, “Lot of work being done in Ward 3 in the next few weeks. If you travel on any of these roads, please be sure to remember this when planning your commute.
Beginning on Monday, October 30, crews will be out on Parker Street (From House Number 491 to the Templeton Town Line), Fredette Street, Wilkins Rd., Coleman Street on both sides of Fredette Street, and Industrial Rowe to lower metal structures in the road. Milling Crews will be out shortly after that with the goal of having the base coat of pavement on before the winter.”
In a recent interview, “The Conductor” Mayor Michael Nicholson stated regarding paving, “This one’s always tough because there’s always more that we could do or would like to do than our funding allows us to do. If we have paved 20% of our City’s roads in the three-year-time period, its really an investment that were making in the future and one I hope we can continue.” Complete Interview, CLICK HERE.
The City of Gardner has made paving a focus of thinking and of action in the last couple of years. Here are the results of a “paving” search on Gardner Magazine and the volume of articles containing paving. CLICK HERE.
- Candidates Night (10/26/2023)
Candidates Night held in Gardner MA
Candidates Night was 6-8pm on October 26, 2023 in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall and was sponsored by the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce.
Mayoral Candidate Michael Nicholson was there on time. Candidate Kimberly Blake arrived at around 6:41pm. When we were there and asked why her booth was empty, Chamber of Commerce CEO Rebecca Marois informed us that there had been a family emergency and that Kim had called to let them know she would be late. State Senate candidates: Jonathan Zlotnik was there on time. His opponent Peter Durant was said to be on his way from Boston.
Candidates for Mayor, City Council and School Committee were there to meet the public and answer questions. The event did not attract a large crowd.
- Pennington Photos (10/26/2023)
Photos of Aaron Pennington, a suspect wanted in the murder of his wife. For a larger view, click on either image.
Gardner Magazine enhanced a low resolution photo from the Press Release. Modified Criminal Complaint alleges possibility crime may have been premeditated. CLICK HERE.
Pennington Recent Photos
GARDNER – Authorities are sharing this most recent photo of Aaron Pennington from Oct. 11, 2023 as the search for his whereabouts remains ongoing, according to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr.
Gardner Police, State Police Detectives assigned to the District Attorney’s Office, and the Massachusetts State Police are continuing to work on locating Pennington, who is wanted on a murder warrant in connection with the death of his wife, Breanne Pennington.
Pennington left his home at 42 Cherry St. in Gardner around 9 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22, in a white 2013 BMW. His vehicle was located in a wooded area off Kelton Street in Gardner near Camp Collier on Monday night. At this time, Pennington is believed to be on foot.
Pennington is a white male with blonde hair, blue eyes, 6′ 2″ and approximately 175 Ibs. Anyone who sees someone matching the description of Pennington is encouraged to call 911. Police are warning the public not to approach Pennington as he is believed to be armed and dangerous.
Anyone with any information about this case is encouraged to contact the State Police Detectives assigned to Worcester County District Attorney’s Office at 508-832-9124 or Gardner Police at 978-632-5600.
- Park Solution (10/26/2023)
Pile of rocks generated by AI. Stone Culvert and pipe generated by AI. Actual culvert will match what is needed at the Gardner Dog Park. 
Dogs Say Thank You to Dane Arnold and Rob Oliva Once Again, Gardner MA DPW Coming Through with Smart Solution
Putting their heads together, DPW Director Dane Arnold and City Engineer Rob Oliva have come up with an appropriate solution to the puddling and mud issues at the Gardner Dog Park which have frustrated owners with an estimated project completion date of before winter if it is possible. (Will depend on what else comes up, DPW is still short-handed.) Various people including this publisher have suggested red-neck solutions such as putting a pile of rocks on top of the mud. Turns out our uninformed ideas were a little dumb as that could have caused injury to dogs paws and the rocks would get shot out from the lawn mowers. The solution: a stone trench and perforated pipe to take care of problem long-term and properly.
Here’s what Dane Arnold stated,”The City Engineer and I both looked at it today. The park is actually in pretty good shape other than the area in the dog play area and a wet area along the fence. We are going to install a stone trench and perforated pipe from the play area entrance the entire length and tie it into a catch basin on the other side of the park. When this will be done – I cannot give a date, but we will try and get it before the winter. The drainage in the park does work, but the entire park is a low-lying area and the ground is saturated and becomes muddy and causes pooling in some areas.I am not just going to dump a load of stones in the park. I’ll then hear complaints that the stones hurt the dogs feet and the lawn mowers are shooting across the park.”
For those who don’t know: It was Dane Arnold and the DPW who came up with the implementation of the fountain at Orpheum Park after the Mayor saw a similar fountain elsewhere. DPW also increased the safety of the intersection near Heywood Hospital. City Engineer Rob Oliva is also often involved in various planning to make sure things are engineered properly in the best long-term interests of the City of Gardner.
- Pennington Update (10/25/2023)
Aaron Pennington Not Yet Located – Formal Murder Warrant Issued
A large number of Law Enforcement Officials have been searching an area off Kelton Street for the Gardner man accused in the death of his wife. Officers have been using every tool at their disposal including trained K-9’s. An Update will be made when appropriate information is available.
Gardner Magazine is refraining from publishing unneeded details as there are two issues of importance here: (1) An investigation which is ongoing and (2) a grieving family which is having a hard enough time.
- Other Side (10/24/2023)
Gardner City Hall and Orpheum Park 
The Other Side of the Tower: One view is the view of Gardner City Hall on Pleasant Street in Gardner with a majestic American Flag flying in the sky. The other view is Orpheum Park with its beautiful fountain and flowers and the same City Hall tower in the background.
- Forward Paths (10/24/2023)
The Continued Path to the Future in Gardner MA Is Promising
A More Beautiful Path at Every Turn 
Celebrating the Past to Meet the Future 
A Changing Landscape in the Chair City 
The Promise of What is to Come – the Rear Main Street Project promises residential, commercial, and more when complete.
- GES Postcard (10/24/2023)
Gardner MA Elementary School a Picture Postcard in the Chair City
Landscaping is shaping up, kids are enjoying the playground, and parents – teachers – staff – administrators are getting compliments every week about Gardner’s investment in its future. As far as learning? Reading scores are up as was brought up in a recent School Committee Meeting, CLICK HERE. And in 2023, Gardner Public Schools moved from tier 3 status to TIER 1.
- South Gardner (10/24/2023)
Attention: South Gardner MA Has a Face Lift in its Future
In the last couple of years, efforts have been made to give added importance to South Gardner. In this view are upgraded streetlights and beautiful flower pots. Gardner Mayor Nicholson has proposed am ambitious project to remove all of the overhead electrical lines and move service underground, like a typical Downtown. Discussions have been held as to what grant funding might be available for such an endeavor.
- Search Update (10/24/2023)
Gardner PD Chief Eric McAvene at News Conference Search Continues for Gardner MA Murder Suspect
Police give update on October 24, 2023 regarding search for Aaron Pennington who has not yet been found. Gardner PD Chief Eric McAvene asks people to check their trail cameras. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
News Conference regarding Search 10-24-23 Pennington is wanted in connection with the death of his wife.
- Nicholson Success (10/24/2023)
Documenting 3 Years of Success under Mayor Michael Nicholson of Gardner MA
Chronicling the last 3 Years of Success under Nicholson with Evidence. A long list with links documenting transparency, focus on needed housing, bringing in business, and turning blight into promise. Articles, Interviews, and more… It’s overwhelming and so has been the level of success…
Gardner’s Progress over the years has been incremental until Accelerated Development began to occur 3 years ago under the current administration of Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Success is chronicled as Gardner has become a Model City for America. Most of the links below contain the actual interview as well as text.
Here’s the overwhelming evidence and links: https://ModelCityforAmerica.com Articles on Weekly Updates: https://gardnermagazine.com/mayors-update-audio-page/ Efforts on store fronts: https://gardnermagazine.com/operation-storefront/ 1000 building permits for first time in 2021:https://gardnermagazine.com/gardner-growth/ April 2022: Future of the Chair City: https://gardnermagazine.com/future-of-the-chair-city/ July 2022: “We Not Standing by Twiddling our Thumbs” – Gardner’s Success: https://gardnermagazine.com/gardner-success/ – July 2022: Various Projects outlined: https://gardnermagazine.com/projects-interview/ August 2022: Citizen Concerns Addressed and Department Functions Explained:https://gardnermagazine.com/gardner-ma-mayor-michael-nicholson-citizen-concerns-and-city-departments-interview/ September 2022: Gardner Going Forwardhttps://gardnermagazine.com/go-forward-with-gardner-ma-interview-with-mayor-michael-nicholson-september-12-2022/ —
Accelerated Development, October 2022. We spoke with the Mayor about the unprecedented partnership of Government, Business, Community and Private Collaboration to achieve an expedited properity. https://gardnermagazine.com/accelerated-development/ The page on Gardner’s Top 40 Projects from October 2022: https://gardnermagazine.com/chair-city-of-gardner-ma-top-40-hit-projects/ November 2022: What’s Next – https://gardnermagazine.com/whats-next-interview/ The Good News of 2022: https://gardnermagazine.com/local-good-news-of-gardner-massachusetts/ The Mayor explains plans for the future – December 2022: https://gardnermagazine.com/turn-of-the-century-interview/ Mayor Nicholson spoke about the various Lessons of Gardner History in January 2023 and there’s a 62 page ebook: https://gardnermagazine.com/lessons-about-gardner-history-gardner-mayor-michael-nicholson-interview/ In February 2023, Colin Smith spoke about how the City supports Gardner’s Non-profits: https://gardnermagazine.com/have-a-heart-supporting-gardners-non-profits/ March 2023: Projects and Progress; https://gardnermagazine.com/march-to-success-projects-and-progress/ April 2023, Gardner Going Great: https://gardnermagazine.com/gardner-ma-going-great/ Accomplished: 2 Dozen Categories of Accomplishments covered in a 68 minute interview. All text of questions and answers provided. https://gardnermagazine.com/accomplished-in-gardner-ma/ In September 2023, we spoke with Mayor Nicholson about the serious business of government. https://gardnermagazine.com/the-conductor-the-serious-business-of-government/ – CONCLUSION: Gardner is on the map because the last 3 years under Mayor Michael Nicholson have been an overwhelming success by any objective measure. We thought you’d like to see the list of documentation.
- Gardner Homicide (10/24/2023)
Police identify this photo as that of 33 year-old Aaron Pennington of Gardner 
Officials at Press Conference on October 22, 2023 Previous stories on this are found on our Public Safety page.
Mayor Nicholson previously released a statement explaining that no vigils will be held until matter is no longer in an active state and asked people to not post scanner info on Social Media as it can impede the investigation. Complete statement.
Gardner MA Suspect still sought in wife’s homicide
Gardner Police report that 33 year old Aaron Pennington, the suspect in the homicide of his wife, 30 year old Breanne Pennington was not found after an exhaustive search of the Kelton Street area. A shelter-in-place order for that area was lifted just before 10pm on October 23, 2023 after being put in place just after 5:30pm. The area was searched by officers including a K-9 and helicopters were in the air. It is reported that the white BMW Pennington had believed to be driving was found and towed out of the Kelton Street area. It is unknown whether the suspect is still in the area or obtained another vehicle and fled. Out of an abundance of caution, a police presence will remain in the area on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. However a statement read, “Following an exhaustive search conducted by the Gardner Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police, the area has been deemed to be safe with no threat to public safety. “
Police put out a photo of Pennington and a description of Pennington’s vehicle on Sunday, October 22, 2023 after he was not at their Cherry Street home in Gardner when the body of Breanne Pennington was found by first responders shortly after 9am. The couple’s 4 children ages 2,5, 7, and 9 are safe in DCF custody after having gone to a neighbor.
The investigation into the death is ongoing by State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office and the Gardner Police Department. Aaron Pennington is a white male with blonde hair, blue eyes, 6’ 2” and approximately 175lbs. Anyone who sees Pennington is encouraged to contact law enforcement. Police are warning the public not to approach Pennington as he is potentially armed.
- Change – Gardner (10/22/2023)
Positive Changes Continue in Downtown Gardner MA
Positive change is here and more positive change is coming to the Chair City. Soon, the Rome Building at the corner of Main and Willow Streets will come down. Rear Main Street will be developed with millions already allocated. At some point, the Greenwood Indoor Pool Building will come down to make way for an Outdoor Pavilion.
104 Parker Street has a new look.
42-52 Parker Street is well underway.
The Garbose Building is in progress.
The Empire Management Building is getting a new facade.
Central Park Building is getting new siding and renovations.
And, 25 Main Street – The Flatiron Building, will have a new restaurant called, “The Vault” at some time in the near future.
- Blake Penalty (10/21/2023)
Blake Forfeits Money to State After Holding Illegal Fundraiser
Candidate for Gardner MA Mayor Kimberly Blake was asked by the state to forfeit $210 to the State of Massachusetts from her campaign account after the Massachusetts Office of Campaign and Political Finance ruled a Bingo fundraiser she held on September 10th was illegal. A copy of the check with the bank account information redacted is included here.
Prior to the fundraiser, members of various Gardner Facebook Groups advised her that it would be illegal as a campaign event. Some objected that she was teaching young kids to gamble and faulted her on moral grounds. Others pointed out regulations regarding Charity Bingo. However, Kimberly Blake chose to proceed anyway. We haven’t seen a letter from OCPF as to why exactly the event was illegal, but it was as it evidenced by the forfeiture check. According to the campaign, the state of Massachusetts OCPF contacted the Blake Campaign when the State noticed there was $210 extra in the campaign account. OCPF required an immediate forfeiture to the state of the funds.
Gardner Magazine had contacted the OCPF as to whether an official letter would be issued to the campaign and received this response from Director Jason Tait, “If a letter is issued, it becomes public and is listed here, usually under public resolution letters: https://www.ocpf.us/Legal/AgencyActions ….For background, and in general, OCPF does not confirm the existence of a legal review. So even if we were looking into an individual from Gardner, it would not be public until the case is resolved and a letter is issued. ” As of the date of this article on October 21, 2023, there is no letter regarding Kimberly Blake at that link.
- Hotline 10-21-23 (10/21/2023)
Hotline Radio is an interview program aired by Gardner Radio Station WGAW on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streaming to anywhere in the world 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. LISTEN LIVE NOW. – Hotline Radio airs Saturdays from 12:10 to 2:00pm
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is usually the first guest on the program and answers questions posed by host Steve Wendell.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson speaks about Community Center on WGAW Hotline Radio
Big News as Growing Places will be utilizing the kitchen at the Waterford Community Center under a licensing agreement with the City of Gardner. The Mayor explained that Growing Places gets excess produce from different sites in the area and “they process it to make things like zucchini noodles or different types of carrot chips or things like that…” The Mayor also once again explained that the monies approved for Waterford are being used for structural issues, energy efficiency issues,and “there were some roof leaks and things like that. We have to fix those items that keep the building going.”
Mayor Nicholson also noted that this work will avoid Waterford becoming the next Greenwood Pool building which must be torn down or the next School Street School.. “This is our preemptive work which is being done.” The Mayor also addressed some of the nonsense allegations being made regarding use of the money allocated to the school – none are true. Monies will be used as intended period and no monies can even legally be used to reimburse any non-profits for improvements. The Mayor explained, “There’s actually an amendment to the Massachusetts Constitution known as the anti-aid amendment that says cities and towns are actually legally prohibited from giving any of our public funding that’s not received as a grant from the federal government or the state government to any non profit ,to make sure that there’s no nepotism going on between nonprofits on the local level.”
Regarding the Police Department and Calling Rather than Posting
Mayor Nicholson also spoke of the meeting held at the Gardner Police Department to give residents a chance to discuss various issues. One important item: Migrants are not causing any increase in police calls in the area. The Mayor did mention a problem regarding people posting about police activity on Social Media. By mentioning that many officers are at one particular location, “actually you’re severely hindering the investigation on the other side, if you’re saying, oh, all of these police cruisers are over here.” The Mayor also stated, “Deputy Chief Maroni said at that meeting that I feel like is worth echoing…If you see something going on in the City, call the Police Department. Don’t post about it on Facebook and hope someone else called.” Apparently there was an item posted on Facebook last year and the Gardner PD found out about it 3 days later. People actually posted, “How come the City didn’t fix this? This has been like this for 3 days…because no one bothered to actually call the police and no one called the city….So make sure you making those calls directly to the Police Department.”
- Coats 2023 (10/21/2023)
Shown in top photo is Gardner Museum Coordinator Marion Knoll, Sheriff Lew Evangelidis, and Gardner Museum President Scott Huntoon – the Museum has served as a drop-off location for the coat drive. Bottom photo shows the Sheriff and his staff.
For our previous article on the “Sheriff of Light” including an interview, CLICK HERE
“Sheriff Of Light” and the Winter Coat Drive 2023
Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis runs a Winter Coat Drive every year and has announced a Distribution Schedule. CLICK FOR COMPLETE SCHEDULE in pdf format.
Starting Tuesday, October 24th, and continuing through the 27th, Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and his team will distribute thousands of coats directly to community members and organizations. These coats will provide warmth and comfort during the colder months and serve as a symbol of support and care from local law enforcement.
“As recipients tell us, these coats represent so much more than a winter jacket, they represent a community that cares,” commented Sheriff Evangelidis. “The department has received countless displays of appreciation from the recipients, which shows just how much of an impact this gesture has. This is a special time of the year for the Sheriff’s Department and we’re looking forward to connecting with the community members we serve.”
Local Distribution times are as follows:
Gardner CAC, 294 Pleasant Street, Gardner – Friday October 27th at 10:00 am
Alyssa’s Place, 297 Central Street, Gardner – Friday October 27th at 10:30am
- Update 10-20-23 (10/20/2023)
From Opening a Kitchen, to Open Dialog, to the Budget, Varied Topics in Mayor’s Update
Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update October 20, 2023 Growing Places was approved by the Zoning Board and entered into a licensing agreement with the City of Gardner to utilize the kitchen at Waterford Street School for their new distribution center. They take produce from different farmers in the area and prepare for people in need. According to Mayor Nicholson, “they are now fully moved in to that section of Waterford Street School…So it’s great to see the first leg of our Community Center up and running over in that location….The construction on the rest of the building is happening and we’re excited to be able to open the first part there.”
Gardner PD met with some citizens to go over various issues of concern after a few incidents occurred in a short period of time. “Deputy Chief Moroni pulled up some statistics that showed that we really are on par with the last five years of calls that we’re receiving in the city. Regarding the vetted refugees staying at two lodging locations in Gardner: “They are not undocumented…these are individuals who are not illegal.” Since these new arrivals, Gardner PD calls to the Super 8 have actually gone down.
Mayor Nicholson indicated the supplemental fiscal year 2024 budget and the tax rate classification hearing will be before the City Council on November 20th. The mayor spoke about various matters relating to the subject.
The Mayor described going on a 4 hour mission as a guest of the Air Force and Army National Guard to refuel f15’s – it was part of their Employer appreciation program. Nicholson attended along with the Mayor of Westfield and the Town Administrator of Rutland and others.
City of Gardner Events mentioned in Update St. Paul’s Harvest Festival taking place Saturday October 21, from 11am to 2pm Chamber of Commerce Candidate Meet and Greet, Thursday October 26th from 6pm to 8pm at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Falloween October 27th from 10am to noon – for Preschool Children in Downtown Gardner Heywood Healthcare Healthy Harvest 5k Saturday October 28th. More details, CLICK HERE. Halloween October 31st from 5 to 7pm – City of Gardner Trick or Treat Time
- PTO Partners (10/19/2023)
Two Gardner MA Businesses Partner with Gardner Elementary PTO
The Gardner Elementary School PTO will be receiving $5 from every car washed Saturday October 28th and Sunday October 29th at Alltown Carwash located at 17 Pearson Boulevard in Gardner. PTO gets another $10 for Unlimited Club signups.
Then, on November 1st, a portion of all proceeds from Parker House of Pizza on 17 Pleasant Street will go to the GES PTO. Patrons just mention they are there in support of GES PTO Fundraiser when ordering lunch or dinner for take out or eat in. Parker House has a history of supporting the community including providing FREE pizza for the carolers at Christmas. The Parker House number is (978) 632-9383
- Halloween 2023 (10/19/2023)
Trick or Treating on Same Day in the Greater Gardner Area
In the City of Gardner, Trick or Treat Hours are October 31 from 5-7pm.
Nearby Communities:
Templeton: Oct 31 5-7pm
Phillipston: Oct 31 4-7pm
Winchendon: Oct 31 5:30 -7:30pm
Ashburnham: Oct. 31 5-7pm
Westminster: Oct 31 5-7pm
Hubbardston: Oct 31 5-7pm
Various additional events are also planned in certain communities. Visit your town website for details.
For other communities, visit official town websites posted on our individual town pages.
- Chamber 10-18-23 (10/19/2023)
National Chamber of Commerce Day Celebrated by Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce
According to USChamber.com “ Each year on the third Wednesday in October, we celebrate National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day and thank local chambers across the country for all they do to help entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes thrive.
State and local chambers of commerce provide a community for local business owners – hosting workshops, networking events, and mentorship opportunities. In addition, by bringing businesses together over common issues of concern, they play a critical role in strengthening the collective voice of their members and promoting pro-business policies at the local and state level.”
The Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce posted, Happy National Chamber of Commerce Day! How Chambers of Commerce empower local businesses: Networking opportunities for growth, Advocacy for business-friendly policies, Training, workshops, and professional development, Marketing and visibility support, Access to exclusive resources and benefits, Support your local Chamber of commerce, the backbone of your community’s success. ” Chamber website, CLICK HERE.
- BCAM 2023 (10/18/2023)
Gardner MA City Hall Pink to Raise Awareness of Breast Cancer
On October 18, 2023, Gardner City Hall was colored pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Officials from the Gardner Team are pictured. Women in particular should get screenings as recommended by their physicians.
Some statistics to think about:
About 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. About 1 in 39 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in women exceeded only by lung cancer. 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of the disease. Men can get breast cancer as well but accounts for less than 1% of all cases. More information, click here.
Some helpful ebooks you can download right here: Most Asked Questions – Signs and Symptoms —- The Cancer Caregiver Guide.
- Assessors 10-17-23 (10/18/2023)
Exciting Board of Assessors Meeting Has Assessor Smiling over DOR Approval
Beaming from ear to ear, Gardner MA Assessor Christine Kumar reported that the Department of Revenue did not have a single question on the values submitted – Values and New growth were approved. In the words of one of the members, “WOW.” Kumar stated that she had met with the City Auditor John Richard before the meeting and he’s “going to start answering things on his end for the recap sheet…”
In another item, the Board of Assessors is once again recommending a single tax rate for Gardner’s property tax payers. “We’re trying to attract commercial and industrial.” This will be decided by the Gardner City Council with a classification hearing tentatively scheduled for November 20th. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Board of Assessors 10-17-23
- ZBA 10-17-23 (10/18/2023)
Zoning Board of Appeals Hears Various Cases on October 17, 2023
The Gardner MA Zoning Board of Appeals held a meeting on various cases October 17, 2023. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY
Zoning Board of Appeals 10-17-23 
ZBA 10-17-23
- Emergency Plan (10/17/2023)
Gardner City Council Meets Regarding Review of City’s Disaster Response Plans
At the request of Gardner City Councilor George Tyros, the Gardner City Council had previously voted to meet informally to review the City of Gardner Disaster Response Plans. Listen to the meeting which includes the presentation of Director of Civil Defense Paul Topolski on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Informal City Council Meeting with Disaster Response Presentation Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke and went over some items in general. Gardner Emergency Management Director Paul Topolski gave a presentation and answered questions from the members of the City Council.
Regular City Council Meeting
In a short 8 minute meeting, the Gardner City Council addressed a number of items. Complete Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Regular City Council 10-16-23
- Festival – Trees 2023 (10/16/2023)
Gardner Museum Festival of Trees Begins November 8th
The Gardner Museum 18th Annual Festival of Trees is being held from November 8th until December 2nd. Hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4pm, Fridays from 1 to 7pm, and Saturday & Sundays from 10am to 4pm. There were 87 winners in 2021 and 102 winners in 2022. People win by buying raffle tickets and depositing them at the tree of their choice. Trees are donated by individuals and businesses. Winners are selected in the afternoon on the last day of the festival. Last year’s photos.
Funds are used for the operation of the Gardner Museum, which relies on donations and memberships for operations. The Gardner MA Museum is a showcase of the wonderful story and history which is Gardner Massachusetts.
The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner MA. For more information about the Gardner Museum, visit their website, CLICK HERE.
- Update 10-16-23 (10/16/2023)
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update October 16, 2023 Worth the Wait… Mayor’s Update is INFOPACKED on Monday October 16, 2023
The Update of Friday October 13th was released on Monday, October 16, 2023. (The weekend event at Annunciation Parish mentioned in the update occurred successfully last weekend.) The Update is INFOPACKED and worth listening to on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update October 16, 2023 In lieu of the update last week, Mayor Nicholson provided the Press Conference with Governor Healey regarding the tax cuts. In this update, the Mayor goes over various positive implications for Gardner residents.
Thank Yous to the following:
Workers who worked at the polls….White Dog Printing and City Clerk’s office for getting Charter packet ready for distribution….Commwealth Workskills Program for partnering with MWCC on grant program for Nursing Simulation Lab which just had a ribbon cutting…..Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force for offering service year round…Thanks to George to the Rescue and Comcast re Veterans Outreach Center.
Congratulations to Chair City Pipers and Surround Sound for continued time making music…Congratulations to GHS class of 1963 pm 60th class reunion and for invite….
Events Coming Up
Trick or Treat October 31st from 5-7pm. Falloween for preschool and under on Friday October 27th from 10am to noon. Heywood Hospital Harvest 5k on Saturday October 28th. GHS Hall of Fame inductions also on Saturday October 28th.
Information Items
The City will be mailing out a packet to residents regarding the upcoming question regarding the City Charter which will appear on the November 7th ballot. It’s a thick booklet, but also comes with a summary. Residents should also receive information on the new, lower electric rates available through the City program – if enrolled, rates will take effect at first November meter reading. Uptown Rotary work beginning soon with most of work to be done in the Spring. Paving work in the City wrapping up, Mayor goes over locations.
- The Picture (10/15/2023)
Complete Gallery including Park Street Park and views from across Crystal Lake, CLICK HERE
One Gardner Picture Says It All
Taken from across Crystal Lake, photo shows Park Street Park, Monument Park with wide sidewalks, upgraded lighting, Street signs, Street safety, Faith-based building showcasing American Flag, and people out for a stroll.
There’s some seating upgrades at Monument Park if you look close enough. Picnic tables, and even classy-looking trash receptacles.
A tribute to what’s great about the Chair City of Gardner MA. One Picture Says It All… Gallery
- Nicholson Effect (10/14/2023)
More and Less – An Interview Segment with Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson
In a segment on “The Nicholson Effect” lasting 11 min., 7 sec., matching the date, 11-7-23 when the Municipal Election will be held in Gardner, we ask about what is more, and what is less. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Nicholson Effect – More and Less We asked Mayor Nicholson to explain what is “more” since he took office. All these categories were more: Business, Housing, Grants, Building, Beautification, Parks, Tools for Police, City Buildings on Tax Rolls, Transparency, Music, Arts, College grads in senior class, MART stops, paving, medical services, investor opportunities, medical services, attention to detail, reliable water lines, computer security, fiber optics, and lighting.
We asked Mayor Nicholson to explain what is “less” since he took office. There was less time needed to review his budget, less Federal Audits needed in future, less blighted buildings, less unemployment, less calls to police, less hungry kids, less paper used, less roots in the road, less 100 year old water lines, less vacant storefronts, less mosquitos, and fortunately, less covid risk.
Conclusion: Since Mayor Nicholson took office in July of 2020, when you actually list it all out, there’s much more of what people want in the City of Gardner and less of what they don’t want.
- Great Leaders (10/13/2023)
Baby Deliveries at Heywood Hospital were up in the first 3 quarters of 2023 versus the same 3 quarters in 2022 and even the current month of October 2023 is on track to be higher than last year. Interview with Two Great Leaders of Heywood Healthcare in Gardner MA
A very important event happened in Gardner on June 27, 1907. Heywood Hospital opened its doors. Over the years it has grown from a staff of 100 to more than 1000. Heywood has sought to expand facilities and services at every turn. That recently led to some financial challenges which Heywood has met head-on with its usual competency and focus on patient care.
In fact, with the current challenges of a post-pandemic world, Heywood Hospital opted to be led by 2 Chief Executive officers. One with greater skills on the clinical side, Rozanna Penney, and one with greater skills on the financial side, Tom Sullivan. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Heywood Healthcare 10-13-23 Both Co-CEO’s were completely transparent about their extensive qualifications. Both are highly qualified and complement each other.
Rozanna Penney spoke about the Emergency Department and the safety of staff and patients, provided details on how Heywood is a true community hospital with the focus on serving its community, the hospital’s community work including the schools, getting the job done for patients in all areas of the hospital, and what hiring is going on right now.
Tom Sullivan spoke about the positive financial aspects of filing for Chapter 11 Protection, how daily operations have been positively affected, about a few bumps in the road, and how steps are taken so nothing is disrupted. He explained the various challenges of expenses and revenue. He emphasized that the focus is on good patient care.
Mini Baby Boom Begun?
While not by a huge amount, baby deliveries at Heywood Hospital were actually up by a total of 11 in the first 3 quarters of 2023 versus 2022. (This was reported inaccurately in another local publication.) The Lachance Maternity Center is described as an immaculate, beautiful unit with private labor recovery suites with nice, roomy queen beds. Heywood is noted for its excellent maternity care and notably has the 2nd lowest rate of c-sections in the entire state of Massachusetts. Heywood opened its first maternity center over 100 years ago.
- Vote Advisory (10/12/2023)
Where to Find Information on Candidates
Gardner Magazine has a list of Gardner MA Candidates at the top of the home page with a link to information on that candidate if available. Email submissions to News@GardnerMagazine.com
Other Information: Mayor’s Update Page – 2022 and 2023 Updates — Gardner City Council 2022 and 2023 Meetings — Schools and School Committee
- Craig Cormier (10/12/2023)
Candidate Self-Profile – Craig Cormier for Councilor at Large – Gardner MA
Craig Cormier Submission
Craig Cormier is a candidate for the upcoming Gardner election on November 7th. He furnished us with the following self-profile. We will run submissions from any candidate. Simply email to News@GardnerMagazine.com
My name is Craig Cormier, and I am running for Councilor at Large for Gardner. I was born and raised in Gardner, and after leaving for a few years to attend the College of the Holy Cross and work and travel after graduation, ended up returning to settle down to raise four children here with my wife, Tara.
Having seen and heard my father at City Council meetings since I was a small child, and knowing what kind of difference he has made to the city, and knowing that my grandfather, great uncle and cousin all served the city as well, my desire to help serve and grow my hometown was inevitable.
I have now had the honor and privilege to serve this city as a councilor for four terms and have learned many lessons in the last eight years on how city government works and how to help it work effectively. Also, hearing feedback from constituents on a variety of topics I feel that my understanding of what the citizens of Gardner are looking and hoping for in their city has deepened.
I have been able to bring professional skills from my jobs as a parent, and in IT Management and as a director of the school drama program for Holy Family for the past 16 years to bear in discussions, money management and the decision-making processes on issues facing our community. With the help of the mayor we have been able to revitalize our city piece by piece. We have also been able to move our schools forward in quality of education and experience, culminating in a new elementary school that will serve our children for decades to come, as well as be a shining beacon to draw new families to our community.
With these skills I have been blessed to gain through my life, and the knowledge and understanding I have garnered over the last eight years as a councilor, I look forward to continuing to steward our city into the future. I thank the citizens of Gardner for entrusting me to serve this city for the last eight years and hope they will consider giving me the honor of doing so for another term.
- Planning 10-10 (10/12/2023)
Gardner MA Planning Board Considers Plan For 52 Unit Multi-Family Development
The Initial portion of the meeting was a continuation of the Definitive Plan for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC to expand existing self-storage.
The Planning Board met for a Public Meeting to hear the Definitive Plan for a proposed 52 unit multi-family development lying mainly in Gardner, with a portion lying over the municipal boundary in Templeton. According to the Planning Board agenda, “Of the total units, 43 units lie in Gardner. The Project will be constructed on 16.69 acres lying in the GR3 district at the westerly end of West Broadway close to the Templeton line on an undeveloped parcel. Project is proposed by Private Oversight, LLC.
Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY
Planning Board – 6:30, 7:00, and 7:45 meetings on 10-10-23
- Winchendon – Modern (10/12/2023)
Winchendon MA has unveiled new transparency tools for citizens including Winchendon TV
The Town of Winchendon has a number of tools available. We have created a Winchendon Meetings page on Gardner Magazine incorporating the ability to easily play Winchendon Meetings, CLICK HERE.
There is an online transparency center with current facts and figures, CLICK HERE.
Winchendon makes a huge amount of information available on its website, CLICK HERE.
- Jim Hunt (10/12/2023)
Candidate Self-Profile – Jim Hunt for Councilor at Large – Gardner MA
Jim Hunt is a candidate for the upcoming Gardner election on November 7th. He furnished us with the following self-profile. We will run submissions from any candidate. Simply email to News@GardnerMagazine.com.
Jim Hunt Submission
“My name is Jim Hunt and I am seeking your vote for an At Large position on our City Council in the upcoming election on November 7th.
I grew up here in Gardner, attended the public schools and graduated from Gardner High School in 1998. Though I’ve moved away a couple of times I always seem to end up back in Gardner! I now work here, own a home here and have a family. One of our children will be graduating this year and the youngest will be starting in the school system next year. In my current professional position I write grants and manage annual fundraising campaigns for one of our local Non-Profits.
Through my time here in Gardner I’ve always considered myself to be a community advocate. I was the co-organizer of the G-Vegas Striders for several years, I’ve organized the Annual Turkey Trot in the past and I’ve hosted several fundraisers over the years. More recently I’ve started a grassroots movement called Gardner Walks, an initiative to get people in Gardner out and active. I’ve been part of GCAT in the past and still volunteer for their events when asked.
Back in 2006/07 I sat on the Finance Committee in Winchendon while working and living there in Town. Being on that committee drove my passion for serving the community I lived in. I consider myself to be a numbers person. I like to look at and analyze data. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story.
If elected to the Council I will work with my fellow Councillors and other elected officials to position Gardner as an attractive location for responsible development and housing. There is unfortunately a lot of red tape when it comes to managing a municipality, we all wish it could be simpler but the reality is it’s not. The key to sifting through all of those legislative weeds is clear and consistent communication. This, I believe, is something I would excel in. I do believe Gardner is on a good trajectory of progress, but there is more work to do and I feel confident my abilities as a leader and decision maker are the attributes we need to get the job done.
As a decision maker I believe it’s important to view situations from ten thousand feet, this allows you to see all sides of the issue and make a more informed decision. I also like to remove emotion from decision making as it can sometimes cloud judgement.
I currently see a community divided through an election process, it’s sad to watch. My hopes are that whatever the outcomes of the upcoming election are, the community can come back together to achieve all the potential our City has.
Lastly, I want to encourage everyone to get out and Vote. During my nomination stage I was amazed at how many people I spoke to that were not registered because they felt their vote didn’t do anything. I understand how it can feel like that at times on the National level but locally, everyone’s vote counts and is important.”
- School 10-10-23 (10/11/2023)
TOP: School Committee — Left to Right Dr. Catherine Goguen, GES Principal Earl Martin, Nurse Becky, Grants Director Courtney Dunn, Student Representative Zayvian Rowe Class Members of the School Committee heard from Dr. Catherine Goguen and from GES Principal Earl Martin regarding the much higher reading scores which once again are higher than before. They detailed achievements and future goals.
Pictures were shown of the play area at the rear of Gardner Elementary School.
Nurse Becky highlighted progress in training staff for medical emergencies, “The nurses have been busy. The nurses have been busy. … I wanted to highlight a few things that we got done between last spring and now. we’ve done a lot of CPR, AED, first aid trainings in the district.” The advantages of the Heywood Telemedicine availability was described and the partnership with Price Chopper to provide vaccines was explained.
School Committee Focuses on Academic Success and other Positive Progress in Meeting of October 10, 2023
In its Mission Statement, the Gardner Public School System identifies its Core Values as “Academic Excellence, Creativity, Respect, and Responsibility.” To that end, the School Committee approves funding, sets policies, and hears updates regarding objectives. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
School Committee October 10, 2023 In the Meeting Agenda – Packet and Agenda, CLICK HERE for pdf Recognition by the Superintendent of K-1st and 2nd Grade DIBELs Teachers Acceptance of Grant Funds Approval of Expenditures Acceptance of Donations Reports of Facilities Subcommittee and Policy Subcommittee Student Advisory Board – Zayvian Rowe-Class – a Gardner High School Junior and in the Mount Wachusett Early College program. School Policies – Some first reading, and some second reading Superintendent Goals MOA Agreement between the School Committee and AFSCME Various Updates - Results 2023 (10/10/2023)
Gardner Magazine has the entire election results available on our Election Results page. Every result from every precinct in Gardner.
Incumbent Mayor Michael Nicholson and Kimberly Blake will face off in the November Election. Here is the pdf received at 8:49pm from the Gardner City Clerk’s office. CLICK HERE. The pdf is hard to read because of the rotation so we rotated it correctly, converted to an image, and posted on our election page so results are easy to read. CLICK HERE.
Unofficial Results for Mayor:
Candidate Number of Votes Percentage of Votes Michael Nicholson 1308 64% Kimberly Blake 654 32% Martin Gray 80 4% We spoke to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson at around 10pm on October 10, 2023 regarding the Election Results and future plans. CLICK PLAY.
Preliminary Election – Nicholson 10-10-23 School Committee: Based on unofficial results, the 6 candidates for school committee in the November election will be Rachael Cormier, John LaFreniere, Robert Swartz, Margaret Bissonnette, Brandon Hughey, and Stephen Sandoval. Voters will choose 3.
See complete results including the State Senate race on our Election Results page, CLICK HERE.
- Bazaar 2023 (10/10/2023)
Fall Bazaar at Annunciation Parish FRIDAY/SATURDAY/SUNDAY EVENT! Poutines, Rapees, Chicken Stew, Tacos, and more at Annual Fall Bazaar in Gardner MA
The Annunciation Parish Annual Fall Bazaar is Friday October 13th through Sunday October 15th. Hours: Friday 10-3, Saturday 10-4, and Sunday 10-3. The event is being held at the Holy Rosary hall at 135 Nichols Street in Gardner. There are featured events each day and featured food each day.
Food is available for eat-in or take out. For complete details, click here.
- Full Mural at Rotary (10/10/2023)
The Mural Beneath Railroad Bridge at Rotary in Gardner Our previous article from May 2022 shows the original start of the Mural. CLICK HERE.
- Gardner Spaceships (10/9/2023)
Officials at Gardner Municipal Airport at start of construction A proposal by Gardner Mayor Nicholson to hire a full-time Airport Manager was approved by the City Council and Isabelle Davis was hired. In a September 2023 Press Release stating, “The Sky’s the Limit, ” the scope of the Runway project was outlined. Publisher’s Note: With the enormous gains made in Gardner over the last 3 years, who knows, someday it might be called, “Gardner Spaceport.”
Future Plans of Gardner MA Airport are up to you…
Under the Nicholson Administration, the City of Gardner has received tens of millions of dollars in State and Federal grants to help move the City forward. The Mayor has made transparency a part of his ongoing stated policy of putting people first, and the Gardner Airport Master Plan is no exception as public comment is being solicited. The Gardner Airport Commission met on October 4th and held a 1 hour meeting to go over next steps. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Airport Commission October 4, 2023 Meeting The Airport Master Plan will be divided into Chapters for public comment. When ready, each section will be posted on the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE. The first few chapters were discussed at the meeting. An Airport Planner with Gale Associates had some questions regarding existing conditions at the airport. He explained, “the purpose of it is to take a look at the forecast of future activity at the airport and what’s expected in the future.” He explained that “we’re doing the data collection phase right now and getting all the background information together. Then we’ll move into forecasting future activity and that finally developing all the graphics that are necessary as part of the master.”
Chapter 2 is “where we inventory all the facilities and conditions on the airfield.” The planner indicated he would need the help of the members of the Airport Commission, “this is where I may need a little bit of help.” He explained that it will be presented with the runway environment being identified as good condition as “by the time it gets published, the runway project will be complete and everything will be up and running….so everything related to the runway, taxiway system, lighting system…”
In the Press Release, the Mayor stated, “We have done a lot in the last three years to invest in our infrastructure in Gardner, and this continues that work.”
- 10-10-23 (10/8/2023)
Preliminary and Primary Election is Tuesday October 10, 2023 in Gardner MA
3 Candidates for Mayor will be narrowed to 2 and 7 candidates for School Committee will be narrowed to 6. A primary will be held in the State Senate race being held to replace Anne Gobi who took a position in the Healey Administration.
Less than a month from now, voters will choose their Mayor for the next 2 years, 3 School Committee members, all 5 Ward Councilors, and all 6 Councilors at Large. As soon as the votes are tallied on Tuesday October 10th and on later on Tuesday November 7th, we will report the totals on this Election 2023 Results page.
- Watkins Shelving (10/7/2023)
Ticket Booth at Watkins Field Benefits from Talented Students in Gardner MA
Gardner High School posted, “Thank you to Mr. Jacobson and some of his woodworking students for building and adding some new shelving units to the ticket booth at Watkins Field. Great project for the kids and the shelves with be very helpful. Love the Wildcat paw prints! “
Other woodworking students in Gardner Public Schools are now making those small chairs Gardner gives away as souvenirs to those outside the City.
- Respiratory Illness (10/7/2023)
Massachusetts Respiratory Illness Dashboard, CLICK HERE. —- Covid 19 Data Dashboard, CLICK HERE —- Influenza Dashboard, CLICK HERE.
Massachusetts Launches Respiratory Illness Dashboard
Acute Respiratory Disease currently represents about 10% of all emergency room visits. Back in July, it represented about 8% of all emergency room visits. Based on past year’s data, the trend is down. A year ago, in October 2022, 15% of ER visits were related to acute respiratory disease, by the end of December last year, it was almost 24%, falling to 14% by the end of January 2023, and back under 10 percent by the end of June 2023.
From the State of MA, “The viral respiratory illness dashboards will streamline the previous weekly flu reports, which DPH has produced for many years during flu season, and the COVID-19 data updates, which DPH has provided daily and weekly since the early days of the pandemic in March 2020. COVID-19, flu, and RSV are the three viruses that are more likely to cause severe disease resulting in hospitalization and sometimes death.
State of MA on new dashboards: “The new dashboards build on our ongoing commitment to sharing comprehensive public data reports and align with increased recognition of the need to share data on viral respiratory diseases more broadly as illustrated by last year’s COVID-19, flu, and RSV ‘tripledemic,’” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown. “Our goals are to focus on metrics that are useful at this time for public health action and for individuals to make informed decisions about their choice of activity and use of prevention tools.”
Where we Were:
During the week of April 5, 2020, more than 1/3 of the 9,327 hospital admissions were for acute respiratory disease. More than half were Covid-19 related. In January 2022, over 20 percent of hospital admissions were related to Covid 19 with that falling to under 9 percent by the end of last year. Currently, only 3% of hospital admissions are related to Covid-19, but a total of about 13% are related to acute respiratory disease. This explains why the State of Massachusetts has chosen to make this additional information available to the public.
What is Acute Respiratory Disease?
The online dashboard specifically tracks Covid-19, influenza (the flu) and RSV. However, here’s a complete list of respiratory diseases from the CDC.
What is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome?
This is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. According to the American Lung Association, “Patients with ARDS are short of breath, often to a distressing level. They are breathing faster and their heart is beating faster. They may have pain as they try to take a breath. As the oxygen in the blood falls, their fingernails and lips may have a bluish color. “ More information from Lung.org
- Columbus 2023 (10/7/2023)
Happy Columbus Day in Greater Gardner MA
Columbus Day is Monday, October 9, 2023 in Greater Gardner MA.
Gardner City Hall and area town halls are closed.
State offices are closed.
Schools are closed.
The Post office is celebrating the Federal Holiday and is not delivering mail. Post offices are closed.
Most stores and restaurants are open.
Some communities in Massachusetts celebrate Columbus Day as Indigenous Peoples Day.
- Radio Press (10/7/2023)
HOT off the Radio Press – WGAW Hotline Radio in Gardner MA
In bad weather and in good and generally from wherever he is, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is the first guest on WGAW’s Hit Saturday (12:10 – 2pm) program, Hotline Radio. On Saturday, October 7, 2023, the Mayor spoke of the surprise phone call he received on Tuesday this week informing him that Gardner would be the first stop on Governor Maura Healey’s 6 stop Tax Cut Tour. On Thursday, the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and other officials were present for a Press Conference at Gardner Elementary School along with people speaking, sometimes emotionally, about how the tax cuts would positively affect their lives. After the interview with the Mayor by host Steve Wendell, the station played the entire Press Conference.
WGAW is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and on the LIVE STREAM 24.7, CLICK HERE, from anywhere in the world.
Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the Press Conference regarding the Tax Cut Bill. Seniors over the age of 65 will be able to get double off their real estate tax bill through the Senior Circuit Breaker program. The Mayor spoke of work going on right now at the Central Park Building. “the building is going to go from that white that attracts a lot of dirt…to a midnight blue, right in the heart of Downtown.” He also mentioned the Buffer Zone building, the Garbose Building, and the Empire Management Building. The Mayor spoke about the Uptown Rotary Project where the City paid for the design and the State is paying 100% of the construction costs. The same company which just did the Park Street Park is doing the construction which has an 18 month total timeline. The Mayor stated that FREE CASH was certified and 10 percent will go towards road paving. He concluded by reminding all that City Hall is closed Monday for Columbus Day and polls will be open 7am to 8pm on Tuesday for election day.
City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas is often on the show but was not this week.
Senate Candidate Bruce Chester spoke about various issues including his concerns about illegal immigration. He has reiterated that topic during each of his several WGAW interviews this year.
Martin Gray, a candidate for Mayor spoke live on WGAW. He stated he just retired a few years ago. When asked why he got involved in politics he stated, “the hospital had a lot to do with it, the construction of the parking lot…” He spoke negatively of former Mayor Hawke, stating, “all the things I’ve seen over the years with Mayor Hawke, how he skirted the people’s vote on the police station” “I felt like I have to do something, this climate change and everything, we need to address this issue and we shouldn’t waste any time….The city can do a lot more…” Gray believes climate change should be the number one issue. He also spoke about his concerns about building maintenance in the City and finished by reading some of his long letter to City Officials. “I know there was a building in the cemetery for years. It had never been painted. The roof had never gotten any attention that I know of since I’ve been here.” He asked for more time on other issues, and came back after the commercial break to read more of his letter. He again spoke negatively about former Mayor Hawke stating he did not like that the new police station got built when the voters said no. Gray complained about the City not picking up the trash before they cut grass and complained about how the City plants trees. Martin Gray said he had one good thing to say about Park Street Park – he likes the fence because it “It keeps dogs away from the water and keeps trash from blowing in the lake.” He also stated, “it’s disgusting all the trash that’s thrown on the side of the road.” “Climate change is the number one issue today, whether politicians want to make it or not.” As far as decision making, Gray stated, ” when I make a decision, I give it overnight. I may give it a week. I talk to people. I never make a fast decision.”
- Primary – Preliminary (10/6/2023)
Primary and Preliminary Election is Tuesday, October 10, 2023 in Gardner MA
Preliminary for Mayor: Kimberly Blake, Martin Gray, and Michael Nicholson. Mayor Nicholson has been endorsed by both political parties: current Democrat Governor Maura Healey and Democrat Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and former Republican Governor Charlie Baker and former Republican Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. The Mayor has an extensive list of other endorsements. Nicholson Interview —- Kimberly Blake has been plagued by accusations of making false statements and has retreated from having a public Facebook page to making it private as of this writing. Blake Interview —- Martin Gray has run a single issue campaign focused on climate change. Two of the three candidates will advance to the November 7, 2023 election.
Preliminary for School Committee: Because there are 7 candidates for School Committee, that will be narrowed down in the Preliminary election. Running are Margaret Bissonnette, Ayesha Coaxum, Rachael Cormier, Brandon Hughey, John Lafreniere, Stephen Sandoval, and Robert Swartz. Those chosen will move on to the November election.
6 Councilors at Large and 5 separate Ward Councilors will be chosen in the November election. City of Gardner Candidates list, CLICK HERE.
Primary for State Senator: Democrat: Jonathan Zlotnik – Republican: Choose either Bruce Chester or Peter Durant Libertarian: Janel Holmes
The Ballot question on the City Charter will be on the November ballot. Here’s the info packet:
- Editorial – Heywood (10/5/2023)
EDITORIAL: Heywood Hospital Unfairly Profiled in Another Publication
In any Chapter 11 filing, there is likely to be debt and tons of it. Otherwise, there would be no need to file. With a non-profit entity like Heywood Healthcare, it’s especially true. Why? Because it’s not set up to make a profit. It is set up to serve the community and provide great health care. So with the challenges of the pandemic and other issues related to the effort to provide patient care improvements and save more lives, Heywood ran in to trouble. It tried to do too much to help you, but it’s smart enough to reorganize so patient care is not affected. That should be the story.
The GN, a small local paper printed a list of large creditors as if it was an emerging story or revelation. It wasn’t. In truth, Heywood Hospital made all the information available to the public and its vendors transparently from its website. And it put forth a well-thought-out plan. Therefore, the public should have full confidence in its ability to provide continued service as it has been 100% honest in everything else. Be glad it is not a for-profit hospital or things might be different. In fact, the National Institutes of Health devoted a 24 page publication to the ethical issues with for-profit hospitals. You can read that here and be grateful for what we have: an institution which has always cared more about you than the almighty buck.
Gardner is fortunate to have a hospital so devoted to patient care for well over 100 years. We are going to report on the accurate story of how it’s entire team is devoted to its core mission as indicated in a corporate filing on June 4, 1986 when it took on Athol Hospital and described its purpose, “To support the advancement of the knowledge and practice of, and education and research in, medicine, surgery, nursing and all other subjects relating to the care, treatment and healing of humans, to improve the health and welfare of all persons, and to sponsor, develop and promote services and programs which are charitable, scientific or educational and which address the physical and mental needs of the community at large….” And that’s exactly what it has done. Heywood Healthcare is a non-profit not set up to make money. It spends money to save lives. For over 100 years it has supported the community. Let us give it the trust it has earned.
Werner Poegel, Publisher.
- Healey Visit (10/5/2023)
Listen to the Press Conference on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Tax Cuts: Governor Healey visits Gardner MA Complete details on each item are in the Press Release from Governor’s Office, CLICK HERE.
MA Governor Maura Healey visits Gardner MA to Highlight Tax Cuts
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey was at Gardner Elementary School on October 5, 2023 to highlight the tax cut package signed into law on Wednesday, October 4th.
UPDATE: The Press Conference held in the library of Gardner Elementary School at noon featured Governor Healey, Lt. Gov Driscoll, Mayor Michael Nicholson, Representative Jon Zlotnik, and others speaking on the positive impact of the tax cuts. Other members of the Healey Administration were scheduled to be present. After the event, the Governor was on her way to Haverhill.
$1 Billion in Tax Cuts
Provisions of the Tax cuts package include increased child and family tax credit, an increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit, an increase in the estate tax threshold, a reduction in short-term capital gains, an increase in the allowed rental deduction, a doubling of the senior circuit breaker tax credit, changes 3 factor apportionment system for businesses to apportionment based solely on sales, increases the annual cap of the low income housing tax credit from $40 million to $60 million, increases the annual cap of the Housing Development Incentive Program from $10 million to $57 million in 2023, and thereafter to $30 million annually, exempts employer assistance for student loan repayment from taxable income, increases the dairy tax credit program cap from $6 million to $8 million, applies low tax rates to a broadened class of beverages, doubles the lead paint abatement credit to $3000 for full abatement and $1000 for partial abatement, increases Title V Septic Tax Credits, adds items to deductible commuter transit benefits, expands eligible occupations for the apprenticeship tax credit, permits municipalities to adopt local property tax exemption for affordable real estate, increases the allowable property tax abatement available to seniors who perform volunteer services from $1500 to $2000, and increases the stabilization fund cap to $25.5% for the current 15%.
- Gem – City (10/4/2023)
20% of Gardner Roads Paved in last 3 years. This is Eaton Street. Gardner MA and its Journey to Becoming a Gem of a City
In the last few years, the City of Gardner has been making incremental, but significant progress towards becoming a Gem of a City. Beautiful parks and recreation areas, entire buildings being transformed, new businesses opening, and ongoing construction. Here’s a view from October 4, 2023.
1. Park Street Park off Park Street was an electric substation with a barbed wire fence. Now, it’s a beautiful and popular recreation site.
2. The 25 Main Street Building has undergone major interior and exterior work in the last year and has been transformed. More improvements are currently being made. We’re showing some being made to the rear of the building where there is parking. There’s talk of a new restaurant called “the Vault” which may open on the first floor.
3. The Old Wheelen Supply Warehouse on Main Street will soon be Golf Rx. The building looks beautiful on the outside and construction equipment was still being used inside.
4. The Garbose Building already has beautiful new windows, which were made locally,by SWS, a division of Maki’s in Gardner. A man was up in the air sprucing up the trim on the outside of the building.
5. The Empire Management Building is getting a whole new look on the outside. Work is ongoing.
6. No more windows at the old Stop and Shop as construction is fully underway to get ready for the opening of Aldi, a grocery store, by the end of this year or beginning of next year.
7. The grade is visible at the site of the future Maki Park. There will be 3 tiers for the public to use. The reason for tiering the site is because the current pitch is not ADA compliant.
8. Orpheum Park has flowers in bloom and a beautiful fountain. It is located on Parker Street.
9. The Rear Main Street Project has yet to get underway. But a photo of the street in a distance view shows an already beautiful sidewalk with flowers and attractive lamp posts. The project will consist of multiple floors of residential housing, commercial space, a food truck parking area, and perhaps even a rooftop restaurant.
This is just a small sampling of Gardner’s journey to becoming a Gem of a City. Right now, it’s a polished gemstone in some places and a jewel in the rough in others.
- Electric Reminder (10/3/2023)
Single Decision of Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson has potential to save households Millions
The electric contract Mayor Nicholson signed on May 1, 2023 (known as Municipal Electric Aggregation) at a rate of just over 14 cents per kilowatt hour goes into effect on November 1, 2023 and goes through October 31, 2025. It represents over a 9 cent per kilowatt hour reduction over the recent one year contract. The Mayor made a decision last year to go for one year because as he stated, “I notified the Council that while the rates were much lower than the rate National Grid was offering, they were still high, so I made the decision to only sign a one-year contract at this rate, rather than lock the City for three years at this rate.” The previous 2019-2022 contract had a rate of 13 cents per kilowatt hour.
With 8500+ households in Gardner MA and an average savings of $57 per month based on usage of 600kw, this new plan could save Gardner consumers over $480,000 per month over the previous rate or over $200,000 per month over National Grid’s recently announced basic rate.
Are there less costly options? There are 2 sources where you could save a negligible 1/10 of a cent per kilowatt hour for 12 months. Other options are more expensive. Check it out for yourself: To join the City of Gardner plan, visit this website:
Those already enrolled in the City’s program will be in the new program automatically. It is 22% lower than National Grid’s recently announced basic Residential Basic Service rate of just over 18 cents per kilowatt hour. For those switching to the City plan from another supplier, the City recommends customers verify terms before switching because of possible penalties or early termination fees. And remember, while the program is November 2023 through November 2025, “rates apply to service beginning and ending on the days of the month that your meter is read in your service area.” If you choose to leave the City plan at any time there is no fee to switch to another supplier. Also note: If you fail to pay your bill in a timely manner, you may be switched back to the National Grid basic service.
More information on City of Gardner website
- Council 10-2-23 (10/3/2023)
Gardner MA City Council Meets on Appointments, Financial Matters, and More…
The Gardner City Council heard from the Mayor that free cash was certified at $2,679,559.00 at the earliest time in about 4 decades, according to Councilor James Walsh. Various money orders were before the Council. The Council heard from various committees. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY
Gardner City Council October 2, 2023 The City Council approved Councilor Dana Heath’s motion to withdraw two ordinance proposals: (1) an ordinance entitled “Marijuana Establishments” to change the method to increase the quota allowed and (2) an ordinance to add “Sports Betting” to the Zoning Table of Uses. Councilor Heath stated he intends to resubmit the items. He was absent from the last two Planning Board meetings and the Planning Board’s recommendation was to “not recommend” both due to lack of information.
The Office of the Mayor prepared a complete Voter Information Packet for the 2023 Charter Ballot Question. It is being sent out to residents, and you can view it here in pdf format. Charter info Packet, CLICK HERE.
Complete City Council Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE.
- Finance 10-2-23 (10/3/2023)
Gardner MA Finance Committee Meets on October 2, 2023
The Mayor spoke to the Finance Committee regarding the recent certification by the State of Free Cash and retained earnings of Enterprise Funds. He detailed the various accounts and amounts. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Finance Committee 10-2-23 Passage of the Mayor’s various requests were recommended to be approved by the full City Council.
- Appointments 10-2-23 (10/3/2023)
Gardner MA Appointments Committee Meets on 10-2-23
The Gardner Appointments Committee met on October 2, 2023 and took up the matter of a Police Officer appointment, election officers, and assignments to polls. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Appointments Committee 10-2-23 Regarding officer Elijah Williams the Mayor stated, “Officer Williams has been a great addition to the police department.” Chief Eric McAvene stated, “Elijah Williams graduated from the Holyoke Police Academy on September 1st…all reports are fantastic thus far…he is originally a hometown kid. He left home and came back to serve the community.” Officer Williams detailed that he has been serving in the National Guard for almost 7 years now. His appointment was recommended.
The appointment of election officers and assignments to polls was recommended.
- Heywood Filing (10/2/2023)
Heywood Healthcare of Gardner MA Takes Major Step to Ensure Operational Stability
Heywood Healthcare has sought the protection of Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to address financial challenges and regain stability. This comes as good news to the many patients of Heywood Hospital, Athol Hospital, and Heywood Medical Group who have observed management changes this year and a halt to the construction of the new Surgical Pavilion. Heywood Hospital – 116 years of patient care. Athol Hospital – 73 years of patient care.
Co-CEO Tom Sullivan stated, “Though our health system has stood the test of time, we are not impervious to financial challenges. “ Co-CEO Rozanna Penney stated, “In the days and weeks ahead, Heywood Healthcare will continue to provide exceptional patient-centered care and remain laser-focused on operational stability.”
What exactly does the Chapter 11 filing do? Co-CEO Thomas Sullivan explains, “Reorganization is a strategic business measure that provides the necessary framework and process to address historical and pressing fiscal challenges. This path enables us to continue to provide essential healthcare services to our community, while restructuring historical financial obligations.”
The National Institutes of Health did a comprehensive study of what factors influence hospital bankruptcies. See article, CLICK HERE.The study concludes, “Based on our exploratory analysis, we contend both sound financial structure as well as supportive accreditation and quality performance all meaningfully insulate an organization against long-term economic under performance. In the case of Heywood Hospital according to their Press Release, “Strong volume, responsible fiscal management, excellent operational stewardship, robust revenue cycle work, and a dedicated workforce.”
A challenging operational period began 3 years ago when “in the midst of the pandemic, Heywood Healthcare and community hospitals across the Country were adversely affected by workforce and supply chain challenges and the revenue shortfalls in caused.” Athol Hospital recently received a 5 star rating. See previous article. According to the National Institutes of Health study, quality performance helps meaningfully insulate an organization against long-term economic under performance.
What is responsible for the increase in healthcare industry bankruptcies? According to the Gibbins Advisors research report, healthcare bankruptcy filings in the first six months of 2023 are on the rise with 40 in the first half of the year, with 46 filed in the full year of 2022. Complete report in pdf format, CLICK HERE.
Complete Heywood Press Release, CLICK HERE.
- Lego Club (10/2/2023)
Like Legos? Every Monday 4-5pm is Lego Club in Gardner MA
The Levi -Heywood Memorial Library in Gardner is noted for its child-friendly programs including Lego Club every Monday from 4 to 5pm for ages 6-12. On the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month from 4-5pm it’s Gamers Club with board,card, and word games for ages 6-12. On various dates in October, there’s Wicked Fun Wednesdays from 4-5pm.
This is just a sampling; For more information about Youth Programs at the Levi-Heywood Memorial Library in Gardner MA, CLICK HERE.
- National Test (10/1/2023)
FEMA and FCC Nationwide Test to be Broadcast to Greater Gardner MA via various methods
On Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at 2pm (or 1 week later if there is a significant real event), FEMA, in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). Purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. For more details, visit the FEMA page on this, CLICK HERE.
PRESS RELEASE in pdf format, CLICK HERE.
Regarding Cell phone alerts, “WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration. “
Around the Towns – News
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