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This page carries our 40 most recent stories. For the next 120 stories, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine is also Gardner Herald, and a newspaper of general circulation for Greater Gardner MA. Easy URL for Mobile is 3MX.us โ- Jump to News of Nearby Communities โ LIVE TV NEWS News & Events: News@GardnerMagazine.com
- City Council 12-15-25

The Gardner MA City Council meeting of December 15, 2025 is the last City Council meeting of the year. View the infographic for this meeting below. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.
Gardner City Council Meets for the Last Time in 2025
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
City Council 12-15-25
The council addresses several key issues, including approving a transfer of funds for professional services to address the vacant auditor position and authorizing another fund transfer to purchase new recording equipment for the council chambers. Furthermore, the council reviews updates from the Public Service, Public Safety, and Economic and Community Development committees, which cover topics like departmental staffing, infrastructure repairs, and various ongoing projects like the Maki Park investigation and the status of the Greenwood Pool Pavilion. The discussion also involves technical procedures, such as amending an ordinance concerning parking regulations and the formal approval of a revised city auditor job description, with council members also offering remarks on the successful launch of the Gardner Community Youth Center. For more information on Maki Park, view our article on the December 12th Community Development meeting.
- Development 12-12-25

The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on December 12th and focused on updates for numerous municipal projects. Those projects are seen in the infographic below.
Many Project Updates at Development Committee Rounds out Busy 2025
Listen to the lengthy meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Development 12-12-25 The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on December 12th and focused on updates for numerous municipal projects. The Rear Main Street infrastructure project is at a stage which involves moving utility lines underground. There was a lengthy discussion on the Maki Park Project focusing on ADA compliance concerns and project financials. Director Stephens acknowledged that while the Maki Park solutions are not perfect, the park is ADA compliant subject to railings to be installed in Spring 2026 and the Building Commissionerโs approval of the stone dust currently being used.
The committee also reviews several Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) initiatives, such as the downtown phase 5 upgrades and the Greenwood Memorial Pavilion construction, while also addressing ongoing planning efforts like the Master Plan update and the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The directorโs report emphasizes the cityโs success in securing and efficiently utilizing numerous state and federal grants for these projects, specifically noting that taxpayer funds are minimized. View our infographic below. Click Image for a larger view.
- Handel’s Messiah
Greater Gardner Community Choir Performs Handelโs Messiah
The Greater Gardner Community Choir delighted the audience at Perry Auditorium on December 14, 2025 with selections from Handelโs Messiah. Listen to the AUDIO on any device in full STEREO, CLICK PLAY.
Handelโs Messiah 12-14-25 From the Greater Gardner Community Choir website: โThe Greater Gardner Community Choir is a non-auditioned mixed choir open to teens and adults of all backgrounds and abilities from Gardner, MA and surrounding communities. We sing varied programs of secular, sacred and popular accompanied choral music, and our Chamber Singers perform an array of acapella works. We are a member of the Central Massachusetts Choral Consortium, and a 501c3 non-profit organization.โ Website, CLICK HERE.
- Golf 12-15-25
Winter Maintenance and Planning for New Facility on Agenda at Golf Commission
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Golf Commission 12-15-25
In the Meeting: An update on a building feasibility study for a new restaurant with architects. The commission addresses golf course maintenance efforts, specifically focusing on winterizing equipment and clearing brush to speed up play, as well as the marketing of online gift cards and the management of lost and found items. Financial discussions show the golf course at 47% of its annual revenue and there was an outline anticipated large expenditures in the coming spring for planned work that will impact the budget.
- Christmas All Over the World – original Song
Gardner Magazine Releases original Traditional Christmas song: โChristmas All Over the Worldโ
In the tradition of the songs you remember from when you were a child, this original song is intended to capture the magic of Christmas. Listen to โChristmas All Over the Worldโ on any device. CLICK PLAY.
TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS โ Christmas All Over the World From the song: โChristmas Time is once a year, And Christmas time is here. Christmas in our neighborhood, And Christmas All Over the World. Itโs Christmas, Itโs Christmas. Christmas All Over the World. Itโs Christmas, Itโs Christmas. Christmas All Over the World.โ
Gardner Magazine has a page of original Christmas Songs, CLICK HERE. In addition to Christmas All over the World, listen to Song of the Season, Snow Day, Christmas Garden, Light the Tree, I Saw a Snowflake, Sneaky Snow, A Christmas Memory, A Chair City Christmas, Christmas Wish for Peace, A Gardner Christmas Wish, The Gift of Christmas, and Officially Christmas in Gardner.CLICK HERE.
- Stay on Track
Stay on Track โ Gardner Magazine Guide to Overcoming Financial Distractions
The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss how to overcome financial distractions in this โDeep Diveโ podcast on Financial Wellness. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE โ Financial Wellness Some key takeaway suggestions: Consistently check in on finances to make the process less intimidating over time. Tackle one goal at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Perhaps take an online course. Clarify your financial goals. Limit temptation. Build an Emergency fund.
CLICK GRAPHIC for a larger view.
In a separate article, we have an original song entitled โSave, Save, Saveโ, CLICK HERE.
- Save, Save, Save – original song
Gardner Magazine Releases an original song: โSave, Save, Save!โ
An original song about avoiding the trap of buying so much crap where the paycheck disappears and soon youโre in arrears. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
COUNTRY ROCK โ Save, Save, Save! FAST BLUES ROCK โ Save, Save, Save! BLUES ROCK โ Save, Save, Save! From the song: โI want to spend, spend, spend, But Iโm gonna save, save, save. I want to get far ahead,..(far ahead) So Iโm gonna save instead.โ
- Assessors Dec 2025
Another Super Exciting Board of Assessors Meeting in Gardner MA
Always exciting, the Gardner Board of Assessors met on Thursday, December 11th. The business-like 2 minute meeting focused on procedural matters including the acceptance of meeting minutes, the denial of a motor vehicle excise abatement due to timing issues relating to registration and cancellation. The meeting ends by going in to Executive Session because various abatement applications are not discussed in public. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Board of Assessors 12-11-25
About the Issue of Motor Vehicle Excise Abatements: Abatements are commonly granted for reasons such as selling, trading, or losing the vehicle, moving out of state, or if the assessment is incorrect. You are not eligible for an abatement if you cancel your registration but keep the vehicle, or if you move to a different Massachusetts town during the tax year. In that situation, you owe the excise to the town where you lived on January 1st.
- Server Upgrade
Gardner Magazine Upgrades Servers โ Again!
Gardner Magazine has upgraded its servers once again. Due to website traffic and visitor volume, we have upgraded our servers to provide the most robust site experience. The private server has a processor with 16 cores. We have plenty of bandwidth and storage to handle our rich multimedia content. The upgrade resulted in 10 minutes of downtime on the morning of December 15, 2025.Here are some statistics which illustrate why the upgrade was needed: In the month of November 2025, Gardner Magazine had $5.3 million hits, 579,000 pageviews, 263,000 visits, and a unique circulation just over 90,000. See attached chart from our servers.
Gardner Magazine is pledged to provide you with the content you utilize for many years to come. Thank you for your readership. And remember, we love to publicize non-profit organizations. Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.
- Public Service 12-12-25
Huge Undiscovered Leak, Cost of Irrigation During Drought and Project Updates Subject of Public Service Committee Meeting
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Public Service Committee 12-12-25 Representatives from a childcare program came in to appeal a significantly high water bill despite plumbers finding no leak, leading to a discussion about potential causes such as sporadic toilet issues and the Cityโs lack of an alert system for high usage.
The President of Chair City Baseball and Softball came in to request financial assistance to cover a large water bill for their newly irrigated field. The committee proposed to consult the City Solicitor about a possible cap on their non-profit water expense.
Updates discussed included completed projects like the Salt Shed construction and Crystal Lake roof replacement along with challenges such as requiring new plow trucks and the issue with signing a pump station contract due to the absence of a City Auditor. Also discussed: the Rail Trail Project, Capital Planning requests, environmental and compliance matters, and the pursuit of various grants to offset the cost of a multi-million dollar culvert project on Keyes Road. Two infographics are below.
- Deep Dive – History of Christmas
A Gardner Magazine โDeep Diveโ โ The History of Christmas
This podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady takes a Deep Dive into the History of Christmas. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE โ The History of Christmas The celebration of Christmas with all of its traditions has evolved over a couple thousand years since the birth of Jesus Christ. As stated in the โDeep Diveโ, itโs a complex tapestry woven from ancient religious mandates, shifting political calendars, and even a fair amount of Medieval mischief. Christmas is the annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ observed primarily on December 25th. Itโs a public holiday for billions, including many non-Christians. The โDeep Dive, History of Christmasโ goes beyond the tinsel and delves into historical detail.
Merry Christmas!
- Hotline 12-13-25
Holidays โ Gardner Projects โ Resolutions โ Energy, and a bit of comedic relief on Hotline Radio for December 13, 2025
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 12-13-25 The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of December 13th kicked off with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who spoke about codeRED and storm readiness. f you registered for codeRed after March 1, 2025, youโll need to re-register for Code Red. Host Steve Wendell and the Mayor discussed 911 and how it works locally. โ Steve asked about employment with the City in Public Safety and the Mayor stated available jobs with the City are posted on the City website. The status of the Sludge Landfill Project was reviewed along with various alternatives โ The Mayor stated that โthe watershed will be protectedโ โ The status of Maki Park was reviewed โ some work hasnโt been done because of the weather. Holiday Events: Handelโs Messiah performance will be at Gardner City Hall Sunday December 14th. Caroling with the Mayor event is December 22nd. Inauguration will be January 8th at Perry Auditorium. โโโ
Steve Wendell reviewed FREE publicity for non-profits โ A Christmas song featuring the Charlie Brown Character โ Resolutions Commentary with Werner Poegel โ Masons Selling Christmas Trees at 42 Central Street in Gardner. Tall ones only $55.
2nd Hour: Discussion with Shawn Hayden of GAAMHA on Christmas Tree Sales at 827 Green Street (Route 140) lot โ Mike Urban Commentary on the Massachusetts Energy Crisis โ
Steve Wendell on Christmas tunes: with a comedy segment on Hot Mamma, an artist from India who does hilariously bad versions of โSleighrideโ , Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and Rockinโ Around the Christmas Tree.
- Disability 12-10-25
Anne Hurst re Maki Park :โ ..it might meet requirements, but itโs still not right.โ as Disability Commission Meets
The Gardner Disability Commission met on December 10, 2025 and Chair Anne Hurst and other members expressed multiple frustrations with the status of the project, while also acknowledging and expressing appreciation to Director Jason Stevens for his efforts in addressing issues caused by others prior to his arrival. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
There were extensive discussions about accessibility and compliance issues within municipal projects, particularly Maki Park. Commission members and city staff examine how the new park, while meeting 521 CMR compliance (Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regulations), is still not fully inclusive or welcoming to people with disabilities due to design flaws, such as multi-level access and the use of unsuitable stone dust surfacing.
The meeting also covers the inaccessible city council chambers due to a long-broken elevator awaiting expensive repairs, ongoing efforts to improve private business compliance through outreach and checklists, and plans for the commission to become proactively involved in the early stages of future city projects to ensure better universal access.
With regard to Maki Park, Director Jason Stevens noted that the West Street Parking Lot itself is not ADA compliant due to the grade, but that the 3rd level entrance to Maki Park is compliant. Stevens stated that it would be up to the Building Commissioner to determine if the park is ADA compliant. It was noted by members of the Disability Commission that it is unlikely that people will disabilities will use the park due to the accessibility issues. Jason Stevens noted that he was not working for the City at the beginning of the Maki project, but pledged to work closely with the Disability Commission regarding upcoming projects such as the Greenwood Pool Pavilion.
- This Week 12-12-25

This Weekโs Expanded Edition of our Weekly News Magazine โThis Week in the Chair Cityโ for Friday, December 12, 2025
Listen to โThis Week in the Chair Cityโ on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 12-12-25 In this weekโs Edition: Gardner PD recognition, Christmas singing, Holiday Craft Fair, performance of Handelโs Messiah, Free gift wrapping at Library, Holiday Cheer at Heywood Hospital, Winter Coat Distribution, original Christmas songs, Donation of Bicycles, Gardner CAC reaches fundraising goal, Spring Flowerpots, City Hall step construction, updates on Fire โ Police โ and Health Departments , Municipal Finances, Planning Board meets on projects, cross-jurisdictional conflict regarding pond expansion, Maki Park accessibility and ADA compliance, Conservation Commission on 2 projects, hazard mitigation plan, master plan, code red system, common courtesy and kindness, School Committee recognizes scholarship recipients, upcoming meetings, jobs in the City of Gardner
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? Itโs easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- Holiday Spotlight
A Community Christmas Holiday Spotlight
The Gardner PD recognized two young men (shown in photo collage) who once again raised money to help others: โโฆA huge shout-out to two incredible young men who, for the third year in a row, raised money and purchased essential items for the homeless and those in need. Their efforts year after yearโare nothing short of inspiring. Itโs young people like them who remind us that even small acts of generosity can make a big difference. Thank you both for continuing to lead by example and for showing our community what it means to care. We are proud of you!!!โ
The Gardner Senior Center hosted the Hubbardston Singers who performed an afternoon of Christmas songs on December 10th. โOur Golden Agers had an amazing time Thank you for sharing your talent and bringing the spirit of the season to our community!โ Hereโs a sampling of their singing for any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hubbardston Singers 12-10-25 Two Upcoming Events
A Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the Acadian Social Club on Parker Street in Gardner. Benefits the Andrew Boucher Scholarship Fund. Bake Sale, 50/50 Raffle, and Chance Auction.
Caroling with the Mayor will be held on December 22, 2025 at 4pm . โEveryone knows that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear!โ Complimentary Hot Chocolate and Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Front of Gardner City Hall from 5 to 7pm.
- Bike Donations
Organizations in Gardner will benefit from over two dozen bicycles donated by E.L. Harvey & Sons.
E.L. Harvey has posted about their employees putting together bikes to โbrighten Christmas for kids in our communityโฆHuge shoutout to our employees..โ
E.L. Harvey is the waste hauler for Gardner Massachusetts residents and has private customers throughout Central Massachusetts.
The Gardner Community Action Committee stated: โBiggest thanks to E.L. Harvey for their generous donation of assortment of bikes, that will be distributed through our community and will most definitely put a big smile on many little facesโ
Mayor Michael Nicholson stated: โThank you to E.L. Harvey & Sons, the Cityโs contracted trash/recycle hauler, for donating 25 bicycles to the City to be given to various organizations for children around the City for the Christmas season!โ
- Step Construction
Advisory Regarding Access to Gardner City Hall During Step Construction
The City of Gardner advised: โThe front entrance to City Hall will be closed for the next few weeks while construction occurs to refurbish the steps. During this time, all other entrances to City Hall will be open to the public during regular business hours and for any public meetings that occur. The City Hall Drop Box in the front walkway will still be accessible during this time period as well. Thank you for your patience during this time.โ
Background: The Gardner City Council earlier this year voted to reappropriate just under $8.2 million from the Gardner Elementary School surplus to other City projects having a useful life of at least 30 years. Listed for City Hall are the following: electrical service upgrade โ $525,000, facade improvements โ $50,000, bathroom renovations โ $85,000, entryway repairs โ $115,000, and $400,000 for window and door replacements in Perry Auditorium.
- Public Safety 12-11-25

The sound you hear during the Public Safety meeting is the ongoing work being done at the front Portico of City Hall. We have an extensive infographic below.
Department Updates: Fire, Police, and Health During Public Safety Committee Meeting.
The Gardner Public Safety Committee met on December 11, 2025. Chief Gregory Lagoy from the Fire Department discussed staffing, grant procurement for new radios, and the status of vehicle orders and completed roof repairs. Chief Eric McAvene from the Police Department update focused on personnel changes, including new recruits and upcoming retirements, the successful implementation of the body-worn camera program, and community outreach efforts like the new domestic violence advocate role. Acting Health Director Angela DiPrima spoke about Health Department staffing vacancies, the resolution of housing condemnation issues (including a severe bed bug infestation and a building fire), and updates on landfill maintenance and grant applications for repairs, concluding with the recommendation and approval of several motor vehicle dealer licenses. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Public Safety 12-11-25 
- Finance 12-10-25

The extensive infographic below illustrates the key decisions from the Finance Committee meeting of December 10th.
Municipal Finance Actions Focus of December Finance Committee Meeting.
The Gardner City Council Finance Committee meeting held on December 10, 2025 concerned a vote to approve a transfer of funds to contract with an auditing firm, CLA, to act as an interim city auditor following the departure of Auditor John Richard. Additionally, the committee considered confirming a large gift from the Department of Public Works (DPW) to the Gardner Community Action Committee, derived from collected scrap metal, while acknowledging that the proper disposal procedure had not been followed initially. Another item addressed was a transfer of funds to purchase a dedicated โowlโ camera and laptop for recording City Council standing committee meetings to improve audio quality. Finally, the meeting included an update on the cityโs health insurance payments and trust fund, noting that claims are currently higher than deposits, driven partly by GLP-1 prescriptions and elective surgeries. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Finance Committee 12-10-25 
- Planning 12-9-25
Planning Board Focuses on Various Sites During Meeting
City of Gardner Planning Board meeting on December 9, 2025, detailed several important municipal topics. Key agenda items included addressing a withdrawn site plan application for a Mount Wachusett Community College project, which was withdrawn after modifications lowered the required number of new parking spaces and removed the need for a public hearing. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a definitive site plan review application for the GAAMHA Green Street project, involving the construction of a new 7,400 square-foot barn facility for expanded client services, including discussions on environmental concerns, drainage, and water supply issues with city officials and external consultants. Updates were given on the progress of two municipal planning efforts: the cityโs new Master Plan and a five-year Housing Production Plan. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.Planning Board 12-9-25 Cross-Jurisdictional Conflict Re Pond Expansion Brought up During Last Portion of Planning Board Meeting
A Presentation followed regarding the Hubbardston Pond Expansion and took up the balance of the meeting. (It had been referred to in the agenda as Templeton, which was in error). The man-made pond is located in both Hubbardston and the project site is located within Gardnerโs Zone 2 protected water supply zone. The core environmental concern is that man-made ponds can create a direct interface with the groundwater aquafer, potentially introducing pollutants. Next step: Internal consultation by the City Engineer with the Building Commissioner regarding the application of Gardnerโs zoning rules.
- Maki Park ADA Compliance

This Gardner Magazine Report concerns the Maki Park Project. It is intended to provide a factually accurate basis for discussion and evaluation. The Gardner City Council will decide at its next meeting whether Maki Park has been completed to its satisfaction.
The Question of Maki Park Accessibility and ADA Compliance Explained in this Gardner Magazine Report
Maki Park was the subject of an investigation by current Gardner City Council President George Tyros and as a result of subsequent actions, recent modifications to Maki Park have been made in an effort to make it ADA compliant. However, certain concerns still remain. The question: If access to persons with disabilities is still not optimal, can Maki Park still be considered ADA Compliant? That is a question to be decided by the full Gardner City Council at its second December meeting at which it has been proposed that the item be finalized.
The Facts: There are 4 levels of which accessibility is currently still limited. Access Issues: Via access from West Street Parking Lot โ Currently there is only handicapped access to Level 3. From level 3 there is no access to level 4 (the grassy area), level 2 (cornhole area), or level 1. Via access from street level near intersection โ Currently there is handicapped access to level 1, an accessible ramp to level 2, and no access to level 3 or level 4. Ground Issues: Ground within the the levels 1,2, and 3 areas is a combination of concrete, soil and stone dust with certain areas currently not suitable for wheelchairs as they get stuck and canโt move freely.
ADA Requirements: There is a requirement for alterations to existing land (i.e. the Maki Park Project) to be ADA Compliant. However, there are exceptions to these requirements relating to whether changes would be structurally impractical (i.e. grassy area in level 4). Or whether changes would affect an areaโs primary function (i.e. a ramp in level 2 would disrupt Cornhole area) Or cost, if it exceeds 20% of the cost of the project. More details are provided below.
Conclusion: While current accessibility is still limited in practical scope, Maki Park may still be ADA compliant in accordance with regulations. It will be up to the City of Gardner through its City Council to make the final determination if it is prudent to bring the project to a formal close or keep it open for further consideration, further debate, and/or further changes.
The excerpts below are from the 143 page document of complete ADA Standards, CLICK HERE.This may relate to level 4 โ the grassy area.: (2) Exception for structural impracticability. ==(i) Full compliance with the requirements of this section is not required where a public entity can demonstrate that it is structurally impracticable to meet the requirements. Full compliance will be considered structurally impracticable only in those rare circumstances when the unique characteristics of terrain prevent the incorporation of accessibility features. ==(ii) If full compliance with this section would be structurally impracticable, compliance with this section is required to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable. In that case, any portion of the facility that can be made accessible shall be made accessible to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable. == (iii) If providing accessibility in conformance with this section to individuals with certain disabilities (e.g., those who use wheelchairs) would be structurally impracticable, accessibility shall nonetheless be ensured to persons with other types of disabilities, (e.g., those who use crutches or who have sight, hearing, or mental impairments) in accordance with this section.
This may relate to level 2 โ the Corn Hole area where alterations might affect its primary function == (4) Path of travel. An alteration that affects or could affect the usability of or access to an area of a facility that contains a primary function shall be made so as to ensure that, to the maximum extent feasible, the path of travel to the altered area and the restrooms, telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, including individuals who use wheelchairs, unless the cost and scope of such alterations is disproportionate to the cost of the overall alteration.
About path of travel: (ii) A โpath of travelโ includes a continuous, unobstructed way of pedestrian passage by means of which the altered area may be approached, entered, and exited, and which connects the altered area with an exterior approach (including sidewalks, streets, and parking areas), an entrance to the facility, and other parts of the facility. == (A) An accessible path of travel may consist of walks and sidewalks, curb ramps and other interior or exterior pedestrian ramps; clear floor paths through lobbies, corridors, rooms, and other improved areas; parking access aisles; elevators and lifts; or a combination of these elements.
Costs are a factor: == (iii) Disproportionality. == (A) Alterations made to provide an accessible path of travel to the altered area will be deemed disproportionate to the overall alteration when the cost exceeds 20 % of the cost of the alteration to the primary function area. == (A) When the cost of alterations necessary to make the path of travel to the altered area fully accessible is disproportionate to the cost of the overall alteration, the path of travel shall be made accessible to the extent that it can be made accessible without incurring disproportionate costs.
These are excerpts from the complete ADA Standards which can be viewed on pdf here, CLICK HERE. Or visit the webpage, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine also has a โDeep Diveโ which explains ADA Standards in general over a wide variety of public and private projects. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE โ ADA COMPLIANCE STANDARDS
- TEAM Recognition
TEAM Excellence and Merit Award Given to Local First Responders for Frozen Lake Rescue
Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D Early Jr. has recognized first responders who swift and coordinated actions led to the successful rescue of two adults who fell through the ice on Queen Lake earlier this year. Members of the responding agencies โ including Phillipston Fire and EMS, Phillipston Police Department, the Phillipston Highway Department, Templeton Fire and Police Department, and Athol Fire Departmentโ were presented with the District Attorneyโs Team Excellence and Merit (TEAM) Award, which recognizes outstanding action and service by those in public safety.
On February 20, 2025, Phillipston Fire and EMS were dispatched to Queen Lake near Lambs Cove after two individuals broke through the ice roughly 100 feet from shore. One of the victims managed to call 911 using their smartwatch, reporting that both were partially atop the ice but unable to move due to rapidly deteriorating conditions.
The responding Phillipston police officer arrived on scene and confirmed visual contact with both victims, who were conscious and alert but still trapped. Within minutes, Phillipston Fire personnel arrived with the departmentโs ice rescue sled and boat. Two firefighters donned ice rescue suits, tethered themselves to a vehicle on shore, and entered the water with the departmentโs โbanana boat.โ Rescuers reached the first victim, pulling them onto solid ice, before moving to the second victim, removing their snowshoes, and securing them onto the rescue sled. Both individuals were safely extricated within seven minutes, with assistance from mutual aid arriving on scene. Templeton Fire paramedics evaluated the victims, who declined transport to the hospital.
โThis rescue was a total team effort,โ Mr. Early said. โFrom the 911 call to the rapid arrival of police, fire, and EMS, every part of the response worked exactly as it should. Their training, coordination, and courage prevented a tragedy that day.โ Mr. Early commended all agencies involved, noting that their professionalism and teamwork embody the spirit of the TEAM Award. โThis rescue was a great team effort between all the responding personnel on that cold winter day. They quickly used ice and rope rescue skills to successfully rescue these two individuals within just seven minutes of being on scene,โ said Phillipston Police Chief William Chapman and Phillipston/Athol Fire Department Chief Jeffrey Parker.
The TEAM Award was created by Mr. Early in 2019 to recognize public safety employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. Contact the Worcester County District Attorneyโs Office at (508) 755-8601 to nominate someone for this award.
The Team Award was Presented to:
Phillipston Police Department
Officer Jennifer Harding
Phillipston Fire Department
Captain John Seamon, Jr.
FF/EMT Laurie Parker
FF/First Responder Cesar Franco-Uribe
Templeton Police Department
Officer Noah Welch
Templeton Fire Department
FF/Paramedic Kyle Daniels
FF/Paramedic Andrew Francis
Athol Fire Department
Chief Jeffrey Parker
Captain Jamal Hamilton
Captain Andy Soltysik
FF/EMT Bruce Dubrule
FF/EMT Owen AnderholmTempleton Regional Dispatch
Dispatcher Ariana Deery
Dispatcher Eric Baker
Phillipston Highway Department
Highway Superintendent Rick Tenney
Highway Worker Scott Boutwell
- Wreaths Across America 2025
Wreaths Across America Event in Winchendon
Wreaths Across America will be at the Massachusetts Veteransโ Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 9am. However, there is NO PARKING at the cemetery location. People are encouraged to park at the American Legion Post 295 School Street, Winchendon where shuttle buses will take you to the cemetery. There will also be a ceremony in the chapel at 11:45am on Saturday, December 13th. Listen to the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the event on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE โ Wreaths Across America โ Winchendon Event 
- Conservation 12-8-25
Conservation Commission Meets on Several Development Projects and Ongoing Issues
Our infographic focuses on projects at 677 Timpany Bouelvard involving the proposal by Walmart to construct a Walmart fuel station and convenience store and 827 Green Street regarding a new building and parking. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Conservation Commission 12-8-25 The meeting involves detailed engineering discussions on storm water management and soil classification, and questions about potential fuel spills, fire suppression, and minimizing impact within the wetland buffer zones. Thereโs also a preliminary presentation on the proposed Victory Lane Veterans Housing expansion which is largely deemed outside the commissionโs direct jurisdiction.
- Hazard Meeting
Director Jason Stevens Holds Virtual Meeting with Planners from Weston and Sampson regarding Hazard Mitigation.
The QR code in our graphic can be accessed if you wish to participate in a survey to provide input before a final Hazard Mitigation Plan is presented to the Gardner City Council. The infographic below summarizes the strategy.
The meeting on December 3, 2025 was convened to discuss Gardnerโs strategic effort to prepare the City of Gardner for significant natural hazards like extreme weather, unlocking Federal funding through FEMA. The presentation by planners Erin Herock and Elizabeth Haney goes over the process and timeline for completion, which involves submitting the plan to the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for approval in early 2026.

- Shumsky Sworn In

Think you would be great at this job? Hereโs your chance. The Worcester County Sheriffโs Office is now accepting applications for its 65th Basic Recruit Training Academy, beginning in Spring 2026. More information is available at this link, CLICK HERE
Winchendon Man Sworn in as Correctional Officer for Worcester County.
A. Shumsky of Winchendon was sworn in on December 5, 2025 along with 11 others as an Academy-trained Correctional Officer .
โAfter 13 demanding weeks, I am proud to present some of the best and brightest in corrections,โ said Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis. โOur Training Department is among the strongest in the state, and these graduates are ready to serve as full-time correctional officers and support our mission. Congratulations to them as they begin their careers.โ
The Sheriffโs Office Academy offers a paid, full-time 13-week training program designed to prepare recruits for maintaining the care, custody, and control of inmates at the Worcester County Jail & House of Correction. Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on practice. Recruits receive instruction in key areas, including de-escalation, the duty to intervene, fire safety, defensive tactics, and first responder procedures, along with significant training on suicide prevention, mental health, and substance abuse awareness.
The Worcester County Sheriffโs Office is dedicated to protecting the residents of Worcester County and building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. The graduates of B.R.T.A. #64 form a capable group of new correctional officers, bringing unique skills and experiences to the department. This class comes from eight Massachusetts towns, as well as towns in Rhode Island and Connecticut, and includes four individuals with current or prior service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
- Code Red Update 12-9-25
Some Gardner Residents Will Need to Re-register for the codeRed Alert system
The new codeRed system is up and running with most telephone numbers migrated over to the new system now utilizing the onsolve platform.
However, the City of Gardner informs residents that:
โThe New codeRED system is up and running. The downside is anyone that signed up for codeRED after March 31, 2025, will need to re-register. If you have not yet signed up for codeRED here is the linkโIf you registered for the codeRed system after March 31st of this year, you will need to reregister. Here is the link, CLICK HERE.
Code Red is how you find out about Winter Parking Bans and other important community alerts. Itโs as simple as registering your telephone number.
- Kindness – Anne Hurst
Anne Hurst Reflects on the Necessity of Common Courtesy and Kindness
During comments at the December 8th School Committee meeting, member Anne Hurst focused on the importance of kindness and appreciation in everyday interactions. Hurst recounted a personal anecdote where a store employee was rudely dismissed by a customer after offering assistance with finding a sewing kit. This incident prompts a reflection on the necessity of common courtesy, particularly during potentially stressful times like the holidays. Anne Hurst argues that people in service roles deserve to be treated with respect and appreciation, highlighting that a simple โthank youโ or acknowledging a job well done can have a significant positive impact. Ultimately, Hurst advocates for a greater practice of kindness and consideration toward others. Listen to Anne Hurstโs comments on any device, CLICK PLAY
Anne Hurst on Kindness 12-8-25
- School Committee 12-8-25
Gardner MA School Committee Holds Last Meeting of 2025
The Gardner School Committee Meeting on December 8, 2025 opened with recognitions for 53 recipients of the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship and the acceptance of a $2,500 donation from Yen Yen Restaurant for school food programs. Subcommittee reports were heard on finance and policy, where members discuss financial health, out-of-district tuition increases, and the first and second readings of several policies, as well as the removal of redundant policies. There is an extensive School Improvement Plan presentation by Dr. Ann Berado for Gardner Academy that highlights student challenges, such as high rates of trauma and substance use history, and outlines innovative efforts like trauma-informed practices and career readiness programs. The meeting concludes with updates from various coordinators and heartfelt farewells to a departing committee member, Shannon Ward-Leighton who did not seek reelection to the School Committee. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
School Committee 12-8-25 The infographic illustrates highlights from the Gardner Academy presentation.

- FREE Wrapping
Got the Gifts but not the Wrap? โ Hereโs How to Wrap for FREE!
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library has opened its FREE Wrapping Station which is available during regular library hours.
The library posted: โThe Libraryโs Wrapping Station is OPEN! Now through December 23, stop by during regular library hours and take advantage of our free gift-wrapping station in our Exhibit Gallery! We provide the wrapping paper, tape, tags, ribbons, and supplies โ you bring the gifts. Wrap them here and leave ready for the holidays! Come add a little sparkle to your season at the library.โ
- Holiday Cheer at Heywood
Heywood Employees and Community Members Spread Some Holiday Cheer
Heywood Healthcare CEO Roxanna Penney, Santa Clause from the North Pole, employees of Heywood Hospital, and community members celebrated a bit of Holiday Cheer on December 7, 2025 in the front lobby of Heywood Hospital in Gardner.
The hospital posted: โHoliday Cheer with Santa at Heywood! Yesterday, our Heywood Lobby was transformed into a magical winter wonderland as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, Cindy Lou Who, the Grinch, and a team of elves brought holiday joy to our community! From cookie decorating to festive photos, the event was filled with laughter, smiles, and so much holiday spirit. We are incredibly grateful to our amazing employees and the community members who joined us to make this event so special. Check out the photos from this unforgettable afternoon of holiday fun!โ
- Coat Distribution 2025
Alyssaโs Place Members Among Recipients of Worcester County Sheriffโs Annual Winter Coat Distribution
From the Sheriffโs Office: ย โWorcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and staff from the Worcester County Sheriffโs Office visited Gardner CAC, Alyssaโs Place, Restoration Recovery, Community Health Connections, Leominster Police Department, Leominster Womenโs Recovery Center, Spanish American Center, and several other local nonprofits to deliver hundreds of brand-new winter coats for community members in need.
These Northern Worcester County visits were part of the Sheriffโs Officeย Annual Winter Coat Drive, which included more thanย thirty stopsย countywide. The Sheriffโs Office distributedย 4,000 winter jacketsย during November. All jackets were purchased by the Worcester County Reserve Deputy Sheriffโs Association, a nonprofit that raises funds year-round to support the coat drive and other community-focused programs. View Complete Press Release on pdf, CLICK HERE.
โThe Sheriffโs Annual Winter Coat Drive has made a tremendous impact on Alyssaโs Place, ensuring our members have the warmth and dignity they deserve through the cold months,โ commented Brady Wagoner, Program Director at Alyssaโs Place Peer Recovery & Resource Center. โEach donation not only meets a basic need but strengthens the sense of care and community we strive to build every day. This generosity extends far beyond our center, touching families throughout the greater Gardner community and reminding us all of the power of showing up for one another.โ
โHanding out these coats each year is truly a joy,โ said Sheriff Evangelidis. โThey represent far more than a warm layer for winter. They reflect a community and law enforcement organization that cares. The individuals who receive these jackets are always grateful, and this drive gives our department a special opportunity to connect with the communities we serve.โ
โThe level of support we receive each year is remarkable,โ added Sheriff Evangelidis. โEvery contribution directly helps make our communities stronger and safer.โ
Beyond their stops in North County, Sheriff Evangelidis and his team delivered coats to nonprofits in the greater Worcester area and Southern Worcester County, ensuring residents across the region have access to warm winter apparel as the cold weather approaches.

- Song of the Season – Original Song
Gardner Magazine Releases an original Christmas song โSong of the Seasonโ
This original Christmas song is a creative Male-Female Duet with a traditional theme. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
POP CHRISTMAS โ Song of the Season From the song: (Complete Lyrics below) โThis is the song of the season, Christmas Time is here, The Birth of Jesus is the reason, We celebrate this year. Christ Jesus is the reason for the song of the season, Christmas Time is here and Jesus is the reason, Any gift received will never reach the value, Of the birth of Jesus Christ to me and you.โ
{Verse 1}
Shoppers gather buying gifts,
Snowflakes scatter making drifts,
Christmas lights adorn the town,
The Holidays is the most-used noun.{Verse 2}
The festivities are so much fun,
Like Reindeer Rudolph on the run,
Or Santa Claus in a big red suit,
And Christmas cookies oh so cute.{Chorus}
This is the song of the season,
Christmas Time is here,
The Birth of Jesus is the reason,
We celebrate this year.{Verse 5}
Christ Jesus is the reason for the song of the season,
Christmas Time is here and Jesus is the reason,
Any gift received will never reach the value,
Of the birth of Jesus Christ to me and you.{Chorus}
This is the song of the season,
Christmas Time is here,
The Birth of Jesus is the reason,
We celebrate this year.{Verse 3}
Families gather for the holiday,
Enjoying each otherโs company,
With a special meal and special treats,
And children hard to keep in their seats.{Verse 4}
Christmas Carols exalt the miracle,
Of the worldโs holiest spectacle,
The Birth of a Savior for all mankind,
Bringing salvation for all to find.{Chorus}
This is the song of the season,
Christmas Time is here,
The Birth of Jesus is the reason,
We celebrate this year.
- Hotline 12-6-25
Holidays โ Events โ Spirit of Giving โ AI, Topics of Hotline Radio Show of December 6, 2025
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY
WGAW Hotline Radio Show 12-6-25 Highlights of the program included: Michael Nicholson โ Topics: Caroling with the Mayor on December 22nd 4-5pm, 5-7pm FREE Carriage Rides โ Snow Readiness โ Salt fully loaded in new Salt Shed and using up salt in old salt shed. โ Parking Meters not enforced in month of December โ Status of Code Red: back up and running. Steve Wendell discussed the new Code Red System with the Mayor and the various initial glitches in extra calls which have been resolved. โ Baptist Church Lunch โ Christmas Toy Drive by Gardner CAC and Food Drive by MVOC โ Last Day of Festival of Trees โ Monday Christmas Sing-a-long at Gardner Senior Center. The Mayor went over other Christmas events โA month of giving for us hereโ.
The Mayor thanked departing City Auditor John Richard for his exceptional service to the City of Gardner. He also thanked the other members of the financial staff at Gardner City Hall for upholding the fiduciary responsibility to the taxpayers โ Job openings in the City of Gardner โ
Other Hotline Segments in the first hour: A Special Report: AI Julia McCoy โ AI Fundamental Shift โ St. Nicholas Day Commentary with Werner Poegel โ 2nd Hour: Paul Topolski โ Gardner Emergency Management on Winter Preparation and Advice โ a discussion of the Amateur Radio hobby โ Mike Urban: Auditing of Massachusetts Legislature โ Julie Mehan of the Gardner CAC on the Christmas Toy Drive.(deadline is December 15th)
- Heywood Healthcare 12-6-25
Athol Hospital of Heywood Healthcare Recognized for Excellence by Chartis Center
Athol Hospital has been recognized by the Chartis Center for Rural Health for Performance Leadership. Of the 100 hospitals on the list for 2025, CLICK HERE, Athol Memorial Hospital is the only hospital in Massachusetts on the Performance Leadership Award list. Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield was recognized on the list of the top 100 Rural and Community Hospitals for 2025. For reference, here is the Chartis website, CLICK HERE. View the complete Press Release from Heywood Healthcare announcing this recognition, CLICK HERE.
Heywood Healthcare stated in a Press Release: โAthol Hospital proudly announces that we received the 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Outcomes. Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards program recognizes rural hospitals performing in the top quartile nationwide in Quality, Outcomes, and Patient Perspective.
The award is based on findings from the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEXยฎ, a trusted and comprehensive framework widely used to benchmark performance across all rural hospitals, health systems, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health in the United States.
โThis recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the entire Athol Hospital team,โ said Rozanna Penny, President and CEO of Heywood Healthcare. โEvery day, our employees and medical staff demonstrate an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality care and improving outcomes for the patients and families of our region. We are honored to be recognized among
e nationโs top rural hospitals and remain focused on strengthening the health of our community.โAthol and Heywood Hospitals, as well as all inpatient and outpatient Heywood Healthcare diagnostic and treatment services, are fully operational and open. Our patients can continue to rely on the quality, safety, and compassionate care that define our organization.
This national recognition affirms the exceptional work of our clinicians, staff, and community partners. Their dedication to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care is reflected in this national acknowledgment of our strong outcomes and commitment to our rural communities.โ
Gardner Magazine has a โDeep Diveโ with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discussing the award and why this is such a HUGE win. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE โ Heywood Healthcare โ Athol Hospital 2025 Performance Leadership Award 
- This Week 12-5-25
This Weekโs Edition of our Weekly News Magazine โThis Week in the Chair Cityโ for Friday, December 5, 2025
Listen to โThis Week in the Chair Cityโ on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City โ December 5, 2025 In this weekโs Edition: Gardner Municipal Airport Partnership with Aeromodeling Club โ Original Song: Chill Out โ Gardner Parks and Recreation โ City Auditor Search โ City Council Decisions โ Public Safety โ Council on Aging โ Gardner CAC, MVOC, and Pool Pavilion โ Gardner Redevelopment Authority on Rear Main projects โ Gardner Public Schools and college or trade paths.
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? Itโs easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- GHS – Pathways to Success
Gardner Public Schools Offering Multiple Pathways to Success
A student at Gardner High School might be interested in going to college or might be interested in a trade. Either option is available. With arrangements made with Mount Wachusett Community College, students take college courses while still in high school. A number of students are well on their way to graduating with not only a high school diploma, but also an Associates Degree. Those credits can be used to shave off a couple years from a 4 year degree. And for those interested in a high paying trade, the arrangement with Monty Tech comes in to play. Best of all, cost to students is FREE. Gardner Magazine has a โDeep Diveโ discussing this. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE โ GHS Pathways to Success This information is from the School Committee meeting packet for December 8th, CLICK HERE.
The GHS Early College Academy continues to thrive. 89 students are enrolled in the program.
Although most of the students in the program take classes on the MWCC campus, many of them return
to GHS in the afternoons to take additional high school classes. This year there are 16
juniors who take two college classes at the high school, which are taught by MWCC professors. Those
students are also enrolled in three afternoon high school classes. Five current seniors are on track to graduate from the Academy with full associateโs degrees. All these classes continue to be free of charge for students. Recruiting efforts for the 2026-2027 school year will be starting in January.The Pathways and Gateway to College Programs are undergoing a bit of a change with the creation of
some new MOUs with other districts. Pathways currently has 41 students enrolled who will be
receiving GPS diplomas and all those students are on track to earn a full associateโs degree by their
graduation. Gateway to College currently has 37 students enrolled in the program and those students will be earning a Gardner Academy diploma. Those students are enrolled in college classes that are used towards earning their diplomas while covering all GPS graduation requirements.
MVP Academy: The MVP Academy, the partnership program with Monty Tech, currently has 15 students enrolled. There are 5 seniors (two in carpentry and three in electrical) and 10 juniors (five in carpentry and five in electrical) in the program. GHS is excited to be adding plumbing to the trades offered through this program for next year. Although GHS is waiting for official notification, all indications from DESE are that the application will be approved and then Gardner High School will be adding 10 additional students in this new trade (five juniors and five seniors) for the 2026-2027 school year. Recruitment for next year will be beginning in January.
- Airport 12-3-25
Essential Updates and a New Club Takes Flight at Gardner Municipal Airport
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Airport Commission 12-3-25 At the Airport Commission meeting of December 3, 2025, the group heard essential updates regarding the airportโs infrastructure and introduced a proposal for a new aviation club. An update from Gail Associates focused on progress toward securing necessary approvals for future work, including the submission of an environmental categorical exclusion document and addressing FAA comments on a crucial obstruction study report. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the complex and time-intensive process of acquiring navigation easements on private property, which is required to secure federal funding for tree clearing and might jeopardize the airportโs ability to meet the 2026 grant application deadline.
New Club Takes Flight: Later in the meeting, representatives from the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) proposed chartering a small high-performance RC model aircraft club to utilize the paved runway. The AMA proponents emphasized their rigorous safety programming and insurance coverage while also suggesting that hosting large community outreach events could provide a substantial new source of revenue for the airport. The commission acknowledged these proposals and the need to discuss the financial and logistical terms for the clubโs potential operation alongside other administrative needs, such as replacing the new windsocks.
- Chill Out – original song

Some Lyrics from the Song Shake the stress which ruins your day,
Have more fun and do more play,
Take the time to push worries away,
Shake the stress which ruins your day.
Embrace the calm which comes your way,
To Shake the stress which ruins your dayโฆ(ruins your day)Without a doubt
Itโs time to chill out,
Chill out, chill out.
Forget about the emotional bout,
Itโs time to chill out,
Chill out, Just chill outโฆ(chill out)Gardner Magazine Releases an original HIT, โChill Outโ
Stress ever get to you? Has someone ever told you to just chill out? Well, give a listen to any of the versions of this original hit song, โChill Outโ on any device, CLICK PLAY.
ENERGETIC 90โS EURODANCE โ Chill Out UPBEAT HOUSE โ FEMALE VOCAL โ Chill Out FUNK DANCE WITH DISCO GUITAR โ Chill Out FUNK POP BLEND โ Chill Out POP DANCEABLE CHILLWAVE โ Chill Out POP ROCK DANCEABLE โ Chill Out COUNTRY ROCK with laid back guitar โ Chill Out COUNTRY ROCK 2ND VERSION โ Guitar Riffs โ Chill Out Chill Out
- Look Towards Spring
A Look Towards Spring โ Gardner Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Athletics
With a taste of winter just received, we thought a look towards Spring was in order. The City of Gardner is unique in that it combines the features of a small City with the amenities of a rural community. Gardner has been called the City with the Small Town Feel. Gardner features no less than about 2 dozen different parks for different ages ranging from toddlers to adults and even dogs, to recreation and open space, and plenty of areas for athletics at the various schools. CLICK IMAGE for a larger view.
To learn more about Gardner Parks, the City of Gardner has a page, CLICK HERE.
And, this is the main page for viewing Gardner parcels, a map of City projects, parks-open space & trails, playgrounds & recreation, and even the zoning map, CLICK HERE.
Nearby Communities and the Region
Templeton โ Phillipston โ Winchendon โ Ashburnham โ Westminster โ Hubbardston
Most recent stories of nearby communities , visit individual town page.
Looking for an older story? Or just want to read them? CLICK HERE for more Greater Gardner MA Local News Stories.
News Around the Region โ Massachusetts โ New England โ Nation
Local News by Topic

Odyssey of First Responders Page โ Songs Saluting our First Responders โ Direct Links to Individual songs โSinging the Blues โ Men and Women in Blue โ Firefighters with Pizzazz โ EMTโs Who Rock โ Ainโt No Ordinary Public Works โ Lifeguards We Need You โ Men and Women of Our Forces โ





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More News Around Gardner MA

Gardner MA is a growing City with incredible upside potential. Gardner Magazineโs Go Forward with Gardner series gives a voice to those who will influence Gardner Going Forward. CLICK for Complete page.
- Community Spotlight

โ Spotlight on Communities Greater Gardner MA
Gardner MA is known as the Chair City, and the other communities covered by Gardner Magazine all have something special: Ashburnhamโ Town of Lakes, Ashby โ smallest town, Athol-the Tool Town, Barre โ Town of Patriots, Gardner โ The Chair City, Hardwick โ Oldest Fair, Hubbardston -1015 above sea level, New Salem โ Home of Quabbin Reservoir, Oakham โ Coldbrook Springs, Orange โ Home of Peace Statue, Petersham โ Conservation, Phillipston โ Historic Town Center, Princeton โ Mt. Wachusett, Royalston โ Forests and Falls, Rutland โ Geographic Center of MA, Templeton โ Town of 4 Villages, Warwick โ Mt. Grace & Forest, Westminster โ Historic Places, Winchendon โ the Toy Town.
- Check It out

Check It Out!
Check out the pages on Gardner Magazine including Local Area Attractions, the Moving to the Area page, and Fun Photo Galleries. Kiddingly we say, ,Donโt play the fun games too long. Let us know what you like and what youโd like to see on Gardner Magazine.
- Public Meetings
Public Meetings Calendars
Gardner Magazine has a new page highlighting Public Meetings Calendars. Most communities list all upcoming meetings in handy formats. Some communities either have few meetings or are not as comprehensive. Being aware of Public Meetings is a great way to be involved in your community.
- Event Machine

Easily find Greater Gardner Events
Click on the name of a town for an EASY Google Events Search for events taking place in that community. ASHBURNHAM โ ASHBY โ ATHOL โ BARRE โ GARDNER โ HARDWICK โ HUBBARDSTON โ NEW SALEM โ OAKHAM โ ORANGE โ PETERSHAM โ PHILLIPSTON โ PRINCETON โ ROYALSTON โ RUTLAND โ TEMPLETON โ WARWICK โ WESTMINSTER โ WINCHENDON. A great tool to quickly find out whatโs going on in the Greater Gardner region.
Massachusetts News This Week
Greater Gardner MA News Extras
- Gardner Tops 21K

Complete Gardner Census Data from 2020. Gardner MA Population Statistics
According to the U.S. Census, Gardner has a population of 21,287.ย ย ย Median Household Income is about $50,000.ย ย Those with a Bachelorโs Degree or higher is close to 1 in 5.ย ย More than half of the population is employed.ย 98% have health care coverage.ย ย Thereโs 9,411 total housing units with 691 vacant according to the Census Bureau.ย Gardnerโs median estimated age of 41 is slightly above the median age in Massachusetts. ย One statistic to note: Average Gardner commute time is just under ยฝ hr. so thereโs room for more local employers. ย For the complete census data, click here.
- Visit Gardner

Visit Downtown Gardner Video Released
To celebrate a great place to shop, Gardner Magazine has released a Downtown Gardner MA video. Watch it in full HD. CLICK HERE.
- Expanded News

Gardner Magazine news pages are generally updated twice per day and contain about 10 news stories per page. Let us know how we are doing. Contact Us.
Announcing Expanded NEWS Coverage
Added News pages include: About the U.S.: Breaking, FDA, Top Showbiz Stories, Top U.S. Stories, U.S. Economy News, U.S. News Alternate Sources: CNN, Fox, BBC. Countries of Interest: Australia, Canada, China, European Union, Mexico. Health: Health, Cancer, CDC, Climate, Covid. Neighboring States: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New York. Politicians and Politics: Bernie Sanders, Capitol Hill, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, U.S. Politics. Topics: Aliens, Money, Science, Travel, UFOs.
All News pages are listed under the tab LOCAL-STATE-U.S.-WORLD NEWS
News around Boston MA
Boston Herald Boston news, sports, politics, opinion, entertainment, weather and obituaries
- Nebraska plans to be the first state to implement Trumpโs new Medicaid work requirementsby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:57 pm
Trump signed a law requiring states to start enforcing the requirements by 2027.
- Saturnโs moon Titan may not have a buried ocean as long suspected, new study suggestsby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:54 pm
New research suggests Titan instead may hold deep layers of ice and slush.
- Good news: Behind the scenes of some of the worldโs most uplifting stories of 2025by Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:49 pm
Journalists have captured some of 2025โs most uplifting stories amid global challenges.
- Strikes and a $100 million heist push the Louvre into historic crisisby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:48 pm
Pressure is mounting on Louvre President Laurence des Cars to resolve the crisis.
- Teen drug use remains low, but survey finds small rise in heroin and cocaine useby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:47 pm
The findings reveal a significant drop from 30 years ago.
- Senate passes $901 billion defense bill that pushes Hegseth for boat strike videoby Michael Mahar on December 17, 2025 at 6:05 pm
WASHINGTON (AP) โ The Senate gave final passage to an annual military policy bill Wednesday that will authorize $901 billion in defense programs while pressuring...
- Providence police asking for publicโs help identifying person seen near person of interest in Brown shootingby Michael Mahar on December 17, 2025 at 5:42 pm
Providence police have released images of someone who was seen โin proximityโ of the person of interest in the Brown University shooting. Police say they...
- Nick Reiner held without bail in murder of his parentsby Michael Mahar on December 17, 2025 at 5:38 pm
LOS ANGELES (AP) โย Rob Reinerโsย sonย Nick Reinerย made his first court appearance Wednesday on two counts of first-degree murder in the killing of his parents. The 32-year-old...
- Jack Smith tells lawmakers his team developed โproof beyond a reasonable doubtโ against Trumpby James Kukstis on December 17, 2025 at 4:02 pm
WASHINGTON (AP) โย Former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smithย told lawmakers in a closed-door interview on Wednesday that his team of investigators โdeveloped proof beyond a...
- Crash at gas station in Stoughton sparks fire, sends 3 to hospitalby James Kukstis on December 17, 2025 at 12:04 pm
A multicar crash at a gas station in Stoughton Wednesday created a scary scene just before 6 a.m. Wednesday. SKY7HD was over the scene, where...
In-Depth Massachusetts News Stories
National News
The Washington Times stories: News The Washington Times stories: News
- Trump can keep National Guard troops in D.C., appeals court saysby Stephen Dinan on December 17, 2025 at 5:04 pm
A federal appeals court gave President Trump permission to keep National Guard troops deployed to the streets of Washington for the foreseeable future, saying presidents have unique powers when it comes to the capital city.
- Ted Cruz tells FCC to avoid moves that could 'chill' protected speechby Tom Howell Jr. on December 17, 2025 at 5:03 pm
Sen. Ted Cruz warned the Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday to avoid punishing media companies that engage in "disfavored content," saying such moves would chill protected speech.
- Slender Man attacker won't contest state's effort to revoke release privileges after escapeby Todd Richmond on December 17, 2025 at 4:46 pm
A Wisconsin woman who almost killed her sixth-grade classmate to please horror villain Slender Man and then fled a group home won't fight the state's attempt to revoke her release privileges.
- Commission to study reparations in Maryland approved in General Assembly's veto overrideby Matt Delaney on December 17, 2025 at 4:26 pm
Maryland's Democrat-led General Assembly has authorized a commission to study providing reparations for slavery, overriding Gov. Wes Moore's veto of the proposal during Tuesday's special session.
- Jack Smith's lawyer speaks out ahead of ex-special counsel's closed-door testimonyby Susan Ferrechio on December 17, 2025 at 4:13 pm
President Trump and Republicans are engaged in "a retribution campaign" against former special counsel Jack Smith, his lawyer told reporters Wednesday ahead of Mr. Smith's deposition on Capitol Hill.
NPR News
NPR Topics: News NPR news, audio, and podcasts. Coverage of breaking stories, national and world news, politics, business, science, technology, and extended coverage of major national and world events.
- 'Vanity Fair' reporter gets an inside view from Susie Wiles, the woman behind Trump 2.0by Terry Gross on December 17, 2025 at 5:25 pm
Writer Chris Whipple interviewed Trump's chief of staff 11 times, getting her view on cabinet members,ย Trump's revenge tour, Venezuelaย policy, and why she says Trump has an "alcoholic'sย personality."
- More than 10% of Congress won't return to their seats after 2026by Stephen Fowler on December 17, 2025 at 3:30 pm
NPR is tracking the record number of congressional lawmakers โ now more than one in ten current members โ who have announced plans to retire or run for a different office in 2026.
- Greetings from Chiloรฉ Island, Chile, where the fast-moving tides are part of local loreby Michele Kelemen on December 17, 2025 at 2:49 pm
Far-Flung Postcards is a weekly series in which NPR's international team shares moments from their lives and work around the world.
- Trump's economic approval at new low. And, Congress set to let ACA subsidies expireby Brittney Melton on December 17, 2025 at 12:11 pm
A new NPR poll finds that President Trump's economic approval has hit a new low at 36%. And, Congress has two days to take action on health care subsidies.
- GOP House Rep. says it's 'unacceptable' to allow ACA subsidies to expireby Steve Inskeep on December 17, 2025 at 11:39 am
Rep. Mike Lawler says House Speaker Mike Johnson is correct in saying the health care system isn't working, but allowing ACA subsidies to expire without a plan to address rising costs is "idiotic."
North County MA News
- The Oscars will move to YouTube in 2029, leaving longtime home of ABCby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 6:04 pm
ABC will continue broadcasting the event until 2028, which will mark the 100th Oscars.
- Nebraska plans to be the first state to implement Trumpโs new Medicaid work requirementsby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:57 pm
Trump signed a law requiring states to start enforcing the requirements by 2027.
- Saturnโs moon Titan may not have a buried ocean as long suspected, new study suggestsby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:54 pm
New research suggests Titan instead may hold deep layers of ice and slush.
- Good news: Behind the scenes of some of the worldโs most uplifting stories of 2025by Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:49 pm
Journalists have captured some of 2025โs most uplifting stories amid global challenges.
- Strikes and a $100 million heist push the Louvre into historic crisisby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:48 pm
Pressure is mounting on Louvre President Laurence des Cars to resolve the crisis.
Northeast MA News
- Strikes and a $100 million heist push the Louvre into historic crisisby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:48 pm
Pressure is mounting on Louvre President Laurence des Cars to resolve the crisis.
- Teen drug use remains low, but survey finds small rise in heroin and cocaine useby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:47 pm
The findings reveal a significant drop from 30 years ago.
- Trumpโs National Guard deployment in Washington can continue for now, an appeals court saysby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:39 pm
The decision stays a lower-court ruling that had ordered an end to the troops' presence.
- Trafficked, exploited, married off: Rohingya childrenโs lives crushed by foreign aid cutsby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:36 pm
Violations against children in the camps have risen sharply this year, according to UNICEF.
- When measles hit West Texas, school absences soared and it wasnโt just sick kids who were outby Associated Press on December 17, 2025 at 5:29 pm
The study offers a glimpse at the toll on student learning from measles spreading.
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