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News Around Greater Gardner MA

• Civics – A Report

  

  

  A Comprehensive Gardner Magazine Report on Civics in Massachusetts and American Schools

  Gardner Magazine has undertaken this comprehensive set of “Deep Dives”, infographics, and provided materials to encourage a more rigorous and comprehensive Civics Curriculum in Greater Gardner MA.

  Generation Citizen says: “Quality Civic education is essential for an inclusive and thriving democracy that drives young people to contribute positively to their communities. The youth of our nation are experiencing the same hyperpolarization and loss of trust that adults are.” Website, CLICK HERE.

  Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” podcast focusing on educational initiatives aimed at fostering civic literacy and engagement. Civics covers foundational government concepts including historical influences, civil rights, the role of the press, and active youth participation in social change and elections. Listen to the “Deep Dive – Blueprint for Civics Readiness” on any device.

  

  Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” on the Massachusetts K-12 History Social Science Curricular Materials Guide published by the Rennie Center in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The guide is designed to assist Massachusetts educators in selecting course materials for students in K-12. Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device, CLICK PLAY

  View the K-12 History Social Science Curricular Materials Guide on pdf, CLICK HERE.

  And here’s a White Paper from Generation Citizen on “Ensuring Civic Readiness in a 21st Century Democracy” CLICK HERE.

  

  

  Gardner Magazine has also generated 2 valuable infographics on the subject of Civics. CLICK either IMAGE FOR LARGER VIEW.

  Gardner Magazine encourages all Greater Gardner MA School Districts to conduct further, more rigorous evaluations of material to ensure a more comprehensive Civics curriculum which will benefit the students for a lifetime to come. — FYI: the State of MA had a $1 million grant program. See website, CLICK HERE ==== An organization called Icivics, based out of Cambridge MA was founded by former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. See website, CLICK HERE. They say: “We need Civic education that is relevant, meaningful, and engaging for each new generation.” ==== Even the American Bar Association has expressed interest and has a page on the subject, see website, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 11-22-25

  

  WGAW Hotline Radio Show of Saturday, November 22, 2025

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

  First up was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who gave updates and discussed the following topics: Snow Removal Readiness – Code Red Update – Gardner 911 System – Cybersecurity and Director O’Keefe’s Recognition – Maki Park – Greenwood Pavilion – Farmers Market – Paving and Road Repair – Bridges – Washington D.C. Visit regarding Grants – 20 or 30 grant applications are currently pending, most are infrastructure based. The City applies for everything it can. The Mayor stated “We always shoot for the stars and hope we reach the moon in between.” – Holiday Season Events – Donation bins are set up in Gardner City Hall for unwrapped new toys for the Gardner CAC – about 500 families have signed up for the program. There’s also a donation bin for food for the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, especially needed are canned goods, dry goods, and spices.

  —– A Thanksgiving Commentary with Werner Poegel – Steve Wendell had a Commentary on what he called a scam by Kimberly Blake focusing on a current effort under something called the “Army of Angels” to collect items for an entity which Wendell states is not a non-profit. Wendell suggested donations to the Gardner CAC as a better alternative – ABC Report on Food Consumption including Ultra-Processed Foods – Gut Check the Foods we Eat – Mike Urban on Taxes in MA – Interview: —Steve Wendell speaks with GAAMHA CEO Shawn Hayden on Christmas Trees. Sales start on Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving and the lot will be open 7 days a week. Santa Claus will be there on November 30th and people can sign up to have pictures with Santa.

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• Development 11-21-25

  

  The Maki Park Project is anticipated to be formally closed out at the 2nd City Council meeting of December.

  Maki Park Subject of Economic Development Committee Meeting

  The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on November 21, 2025. Listen to the complete meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Director Jason Stevens gave the committee an update on the Maki Park Project. Discussions centered on the nearing completion of the project, including the installation of a new ADA-accessible concrete ramp and railings with final payment anticipated by December 12th. Stevens shared documentation including design plans and a filed building permit that preceded the start of the current construction phase. Council President George Tyros and Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas expressed satisfaction with the transparency and thoroughness of the department’s work, passing a motion to have Director Stevens present a complete update and financial packet to the full City Council at the 2nd December meeting to formally close out the project.

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• This Week 11-21-25

  

  This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, November 21, 2025

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

  In this week’s edition: Christmas Song — Road Safety Grant – Leapfrog – ZBA – Public Welfare with Recreation and the Airport – Code Red Cybersecurity Incident – Gordon Deal – East Wing Gallery at MWCC – City Council – Rockwell Meeting – Golf Commission – Focus on Gardner’s Future Interview – Grace Curley – Turkey Trot – Upcoming Meetings.

  Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.

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• I Saw a Snowflake

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases an original Christmas Song: “I Saw a Snowflake”

  Have you ever looked at a single snowflake and realized just how beautiful it is and how much of God’s work went in to it? The original song “I Saw a Snowflake” explores this example of intelligent design. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “I Saw a Snowflake,It meant everything to me, I Saw a Snowflake, I was awed by its beauty…A snowflake, a snowflake, Designed with love from God Above, A snowflake, a snowflake, Bringing forth some Christmas Love.”

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• Road Safety Grant

  

  Road Safety Grant Awarded to City of Gardner for a Variety of Initiatives

  Gardner has been awarded just under $31K through the Municipal Road Safety Grant Program for the purpose of enhancing traffic and road safety initiatives throughout the City of Gardner. Included are road safety patrols, bicycle helmets and car seats for community distribution, educational programming by the Gardner Police Department, and two new radar speed signs to help monitor and calm traffic in key areas across the city. See complete Press Release on pdf, CLICK HERE.

  Mayor Nicholson stated: “this grant strengthens our efforts to make Gardner’s streets safer for everyone.” State Representative Zlotnik stated: “…road safety programs like this one not only prevent accidents but also strengthen the relationship between the police and the community…” Councilor Craig Cormer stated:”…will support educational programs designed to safeguard our citizens and promote a culture of safety among our youth.” Complete comments in Press Release, CLICK HERE.

  
  The Municipal Road Safety Grant Program, administered by EOPSS’s Office of Grants and Research, provides funding to local police departments to address roadway safety issues through a mix of enforcement, equipment, education, and community engagement. Funded through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the program helps municipalities reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities while promoting safe driving practices across Massachusetts. Mayor Nicholson stated, “Every step we take to make our streets safer helps us build a stronger, more connected Gardner.”

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• Westminster December 2025

  

  Westminster Events and Community Information for December 2025

  The December edition of the Westminster South Street Sentinel focuses heavily on holiday events and community information. CLICK HERE for PDF. Included is the Tree Lighting celebration. Lions Club Christmas Tree sales, and concerts, plus updates from different town departments.

  For detailed information, read the pdf. or listen to a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Public Logic Launch

  

  
  Nate Boudreau posted: “Go-live day. We built this in the shadows—thank you to everyone who tested, edited, and nudged it forward. PublicLogic grew from many town hall desks: when the structure is steady, small teams can breathe easier. Proud to go live with Dr. Allison Weiss Rothschild leading PublicInsight (people-first training & readiness), and VAULT—the simple structure that keeps departments organized without new software.”

  Nathan Boudreau’s Public Logic is Launched – All the Details and a “Deep Dive”

  PublicLogic has been launched. Complete Press Release, CLICK HERE. According to the Press Release, “PublicLogic has launched as a municipal modernization firm serving communities across Massachusetts. The company helps towns organize their internal operations, strengthen consistency, and prepare for the long term as roles shift, staff retire, and workloads grow.

  PublicLogic was created by Nathan Boudreau, MPA, MCPPO, a municipal administrator who has spent years building the systems that keep local government running. The firm is built on a simple belief: communities function better when their internal work is clear, consistent, and easy for staff to follow.” Website CLICK HERE.

  Gardner Magazine has also generated a PublicLogic Step by Step Guide, CLICK HERE

  Nate Boudreau is currently the Hubbardston Town Administrator where he helped pioneer their website platform HubbConnect. Previous article on Hubbardston, CLICK HERE. — “Deep Dive” on HubbConnect, CLICK HERE.

  Listen to our “Deep Dive” about PublicLogic on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Editorial – Leapfrog

  

  

  Gardner Magazine Calls Out Leapfrog for Shocking Bad Practice – We give Leapfrog a Big Fat F

  Imagine this: You choose not to participate in a survey so the survey provider decides to just give you a bad grade. Not because they have any evidence. Not because they have any facts. Simply because they want to stick it to you. Doesn’t sound like that could be possible, does it? Well, it apparently happened. One local hospital system, Heywood was a victim of Leapfrog, getting D’s when they weren’t really even graded. They just didn’t choose to participate because they didn’t want to waste valuable staff time or resources on the survey provider. Here’s proof right on Leapfrog’s website, CLICK HERE

  
  We say shame on Leapfrog, and congratulations to Heywood Healthcare which includes Athol Hospital, Heywood Hospital, and Heywood Medical Group for providing excellent patient centered care in the region for over one hundred years. In our opinion, we hope that Heywood and the other hospitals similarly targeted take appropriate legal action for what in our opinion was an egregious attempt to besmirch the reputation of a fine organization which is spending its time on quality, patient-centered care rather than on obviously misleading surveys.

  In our opinion, Leapfrog “stuck it to Heywood” simply because Heywood declined to respond to a survey. And that’s just not OK.

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• ZBA 11-18-25

  

  ZBA Holds Meeting on Various Land-Use Applications

  Listen to the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting of November 18, 2025 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  1. An initial request from NH Signs for a sign requirement release for 4 Oak Street was withdrawn without prejudice.

  2. The Board took up the special permit request by the Walnut Heritage House Trust for a 7 unit dwelling at 63 Walnut Street. This is a resubmission of a previously approved project

  3. A special permit application by Patrick J. Comiskey related to 381 East Broadway to continue their existing motor vehicle light service business including fuel sales, oil and fluid changes.

  A key theme throughout the discussions is ensuring compliance with established conditions and addressing concerns from abutting property owners regarding issues like parking and ongoing construction activities.

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• Public Welfare 11-18-25

  

  Public Welfare Committee Hears about Gardner Recreation from Dan Forte and about the Gardner Airport from Isabelle Davis

  The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on November 18, 2025 with Councilors Judy Mack, David Thibeault-Munoz, and Dana Heath assembled to hear updates. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Recreation Director Dan Forte outlined the success of the summer programs and detailed upcoming recreational offerings including changes to youth basketball and the growth of various sports clinics, while also considering the need to potentially establish a separate municipal recreation department to expand services including offerings for adults.

  Airport Manager Isabelle Davis highlighted the need for increased funding to cover long-delayed maintenance and safety issues, such as roof repairs and tree obstruction removal. Also discussed was efforts to increase activity and revenue by attracting new users and securing dedicated revolving funds for the airport’s financial needs.

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• Code Red Incident

  

  City of Gardner Informs Public Regarding Code Red Cybersecurity Incident

  The City of Gardner released this statement: “Code Red system had a cybersecurity incident that was contained to but damaged the OnSolve CodeRED environment. In an abundance of caution, they have decommissioned the CodeRed platform and have expedited a plan to move all customers to a new CodeRed system by Crisis25 Solutions. Once the City of Gardner has completed the onboarding we will notify the public. This new system may require all users to re-register under the new system. Updates and new links will be posted on the city website and social media platforms as soon as they become available. Please continue to monitor these sites for updates.”

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• Templeton Town Meeting 11-12-25

  

  A report on the Templeton MA Special Town Meeting Held on November 12, 2025

  This article has been updated on 11-19-25 to reflect the amended town meeting article which reduced the roof article by $2 million from the original $12.9 million figure. The Templeton Town Meeting approved $10,864.548 for roof repairs including $9,176,314 for the Narragansett Regional High School and $1,688,234 for the Narragansett Middle School. Vote was 57 yes and 7 no Listen to AUDIO of the amendment on any device. CLICK PLAY

  It will also go on the ballot. It will also need to be approved by a Phillipston town meeting and ballot. However, the Narragansett School District has been approved for an MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) 59% reimbursement grant, MSBA does not yet show a revised figure, see PDF.

  Based on a decades-old regional agreement, the split would be Templeton 85% and Phillipston 15%. Phillipston has a special Town Meeting on December 3^rd at 7pm to consider only one item, the roof. View the entire meeting warrant on pdf, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Community Preservation Act Funding for the Memorial Congregational Church exterior ($15,500), the Narragansett Historical Society Grange Hall Kitchen ($20,000), the Boynton Library Rehab ($60,000), the Templeton Agricultural Commission Community Garden ($5,900) was all approved. The meeting concluded with a lengthy and contentious debate and vote on an article concerning authority over public water fluoridation, ultimately failing to pass either the original or a substitute motion before the meeting was dissolved.

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• America’s First News

  

  Why Gardner’s First Morning Newscast is a Big DEAL

  Gordon Deal headlines the WGAW “America’s First News” every weekday morning at 5am and Saturday mornings at 6am. The show stands out and is an essential listen each day for thousands in the region on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streaming.

  The Chair Man and the Chair Lady explain what the show is all about and why it’s such a big hit in a “Deep Dive” podcast. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  With Gordon Deal you get the first look on politics, business news, and more. The show’s success hinges on the whole team. Gordon Deal started out as a play-by-play sports announcer and became a popular host on New York City radio, developed a distinctive reporting style, and still serves as the public address announcer for Army Football. Like any great broadcast, it’s not a one-man show. Nicole Murray is the news anchor and also anchors the “Your Money Now” reports. Producer Mike Gavin teamed up with Gordon Deal almost 2 decades ago and they have a unique, positive synergy.

  Morning News 6-9am: Following Gordon Deal every weekday from 6-9am is Newsman and WGAW Station Owner Steve Wendell who before WGAW had served as a newsman behind the television camera where he developed his vast experience in covering news and doing interviews.

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• East Wing Gallery

  

  
  More about the East Wing Gallery at Mount Wachusett Community Collage and more of the artists’ statements can be read in detail on this webpage, CLICK HERE.

  East Wing Gallery at MWCC showcases Art of Megan Marden and Amanda Millis

  Mount Wachusett Community College is showcasing recent works of Megan Marden and Amanda Millis until December 6th. There will be a final day of the exhibit reception on Saturday, December 6th from noon until 2pm. Gallery Hours are Monday through Thursday from 8am to 8pm, Friday 8am to 5pm and also during Theatre at the Mount performances.

  MWCC released this statement from Megan Marden: ““I build paintings from direct observation, found images, and constructed setups. The paintings are grounded in perception but pushed by memory, revision, and a refusal to accept an easy read. As soon as I establish a sense of space, I scrape, repaint, veil, or otherwise disrupt it, then try to uncover it anew. This repeats until the image feels inevitable without being closed.”

  MWCC released this statement from Amanda Millis: ““There are moments when light, or the intensity of a moment stop me — the impossible glow of the blue hour, the shifting shape of light across a curtain, the way a familiar room suddenly feels strange. My paintings are a meeting place between inner and outer worlds, where perception, memory, and feeling converge. I return to certain motifs over time, observing how light and the passage of time change both my seeing and understanding.”

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• City Council 11-17-25

  

  View the entire agenda and packet on pdf, CLICK HERE.

  Gardner MA City Council Met on November 17, 2025

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

  
  The Housing Ordinance passed. Request to utilize just over 200 grand for road paving was approved.

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson gave a presentation on non-union compensation and the matter was discussed with considerable debate and several amendments regarding step increases and years of service recognition. Council President Tyros requested a roll call vote on the item. There were 8 votes in favor with Councilors Brooks and Thibeault Munoz voting against. Councilor Heath was not at the meeting.

  The council addresses several National Grid utility petitions for infrastructure installation and discusses safety and welfare items, including applications for a motor vehicle dealer’s license. Additionally, updates are given on the Waterford Community Center project revealing slow progress on the city’s side, and the council confirms multiple mayoral appointments to various boards and commissions.

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• Rockwell Committee

  

  Rockwell Meeting Held – Applications opening December 1st

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

  The Gardner William Rockwell Educational Gift Fund Committee meeting was held on November 17, 2025. Attendees reviewed the status of outstanding grants, noting that the vast majority of allocated funds had been spent effectively on items like new school furniture and band equipment. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Raymond James investment update, which covered the fund’s overall performance, asset allocation (approximately 60-65% equities), and total investment gains for the year, showing strong performance despite market volatility. The trustees then voted to segregate 90% of the year-to-date investment gain*—totaling over $322,000—for the upcoming grant cycle and moved to extend the grant application period for teachers until the end of January to accommodate the holiday break. Applications for the school year open December 1^st and will close January 30, 2026

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• Ad Hoc 11-17-25

  

  Gardner Ad Hoc Committee sends recommendations to City Council

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

  The Gardner Ad Hoc Compensation Proposal Committee met on November 17, 2025. Gardner Mayor Nicholson chaired the meeting which reviewed the comprehensive packet distributed to members including a list of positions to be included or excluded, financial forecasting for 3, 5, and 10 years, revenue projections, and comparable data from other communities. The proposed ordinance to be sent to the City Council for approval included a step sale based on a salary survey designed to address previous feedback regarding step length, percentage consistency, and recognition of prior service credit.

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• Golf Commission 11-17-25

  

  Gardner Golf Commission Approves Proposed 2026 Rates But Leaves Cart Fees Alone

  Listen to the Golf Commission meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  The Gardner Golf Commission met on November 17, 2025 and discussed setting the golf course rates for 2026, particularly noting that cart fees were already higher than local competitors and they decided not to increase them, while approving the proposed 2026 rates overall. Significant portions of the discussion focused on the winterization of the golf course, including aeration and over seeding efforts, and the challenges of maintaining the grounds** due to cold weather and budget priorities, such as the poor condition of the bunkers. The commission also reviewed the current financials, noting a temporary surplus, and formally presented the proposed $1.3 million budget for fiscal years 2026-2027. Finally, they scheduled a site walk for a building feasibility study.

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• Focus on Gardner’s Future

  

  A very positive interview about Gardner’s Future. We cover many areas. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Focus on Gardner’s Future – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

  On November 17, 2025, Gardner Magazine spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson in a very positive interview “Focus on Gardner’s Future” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  We covered a myriad of topics. Here are some highlights of what the Mayor said.

  Roads and Paving: ” I think there’s going to be a lot of the continuation of the work that we’ve done to keep up with our infrastructure. You know, we’re already starting to think about what the paving list is for next year. We recently just appropriated just over $210,000 to add supplemental funding so that when we go into paving season next year, we’ve already got some seed funding in. So by the time we get our Chapter 90 funds, we’ve already got some money in there. And working through the priority list of the roads that we have, and again, we rank our streets on a list of how many houses are on that road, how many cars normally drive on that road, if there’s any businesses on that road. And all of those things come into mind. So those are the conversations we’re having now so that when the spring comes around, we can start to really execute that”

  The Mayor explained that there’s never enough funds to do all the roads he’d like to pave. “To get to everything that we prioritize or what we call it a Category 1, and those are the ones that really need to be repaved, that haven’t been repaved in a while, that are just in the state of disrepair, it would probably take us around $6 million to do so. So where, you know, last year we got $1 million from the state, which was helpful, and we always put aside 10% of our certified free cash, which is our unappropriated reserves that we have from the previous fiscal year. So, you know, that’s a lot less than $6 million, but we do what we can.”

  Nicholson explained that he’s really excited about the South Gardner project which is finally becoming a reality. ” We received a million and a half from the Mass Works grant to move all of the overhead utility wires in the South Gardner Village Center. So from the area around the standard chair factory down to the Gardner Martial Arts Academy, take all those overhead telephone poles, put underground conduit in, run the wires under the sidewalks, install the new sidewalks, pave the road over the trenching that’s done there too, and really improve the visual area, visual view of that area. We’ve done a lot of work in our main downtown in recent years, so it’s time to continue that progress going into South Gardner’s downtown over there….When you drive through, one of the things I’ve often said is when you drive in an area of the city, sometimes things become so familiar that you kind of put them out of sight, out of mind. You don’t notice how many wires are there overhead until you notice how many wires are there overhead. And when you do, you realize just how many they are, just how much they block from the view in the area. So I’m hoping this helps make the area more, one, visually appealing, but also more attractive to the businesses in the area and make it morefeel that it is a downtown commercial center just like our main downtown is.”

  Solar panels and the return to the City: ” Two years ago we talked with the city council and they voted to approve a project to put solar panels on all of our city-owned buildings. Because of supply demand, the time it took us to get the panels actually ordered, we should be able to start to see some of that work done in the upcoming year. But again, you’re dealing with national grid connections and availability of the stock of the solar panels. But we have started to pre-purchase some of those with our contractor who’s helping us out with that. So that is moving forward. We’re hoping that that helps reduce some of the electrical bills that we’re seeing here in City Hall and at our other city-owned buildings so that we can reallocate those resources in other places financially.”

  On Education: “One of the things I’m looking forward to in the next year is expanding our MVP Academy, our Montachusett Vocational Partnership Academy is what it stands for, with plumbing. And really what that means right now is for the past couple of years we’ve had students in electrical and carpentry be able to take shop classes at Monty Tech. And we’re growing that this time of year by adding plumbing as an option for our students to be able to take part in that too.” The Mayor also detailed the work being done at the various school buildings in the coming year. We also spoke about the constant review of policies including discipline. Here’s what the Mayor stated about enrollment numbers. “Our projections say that we’re going to see more increases in the elementary school that will eventually, within the next five to ten years, move off to the high school.”

  On Housing: “Gardner is around 700 to 750 housing units short of the demand that we currently have. And that’s not projecting out to what would the demand be in 10 years from now. So, we are working right now on a new housing ordinance to try to cut back a lot of that red tape in the permitting process for new housing development. A lot of that red tape in renovating existing housing units that we currently have and making it easier for housing to actually develop and grow here in Gardner across all sectors. Senior housing, multi-family housing, veterans’ housing. I know working with a couple of the councilors, some of the comments we received back was needing to take a step on student housing. And making it so that the students at in Mount Wachusett Community College have a place that if they want to stay in Gardner...” We spoke about the impending sales of the Helen Mae Sauter and School Street Schools which may add additional housing units if developed and the impending work Tony Molina will be doing at the former Prospect Street School as that becomes new housing. As far as other CIty properties, there is a purchase and sale agreement being reviewed for the Garbose property and we’ll be sure to let you know when we have news as to what type of development that will be.

  Master Plan and Hazard Mitigation Plan: “This being the city’s first full master plan, it’s going to be a process. There’s going to be some time in between, but I really can’t thank the committee enough who’s been working on that. We’ll hopefully be able to have a draft of it soon.” As far as the hazard mitigation plan, it is designed to identify vulnerabilities in the City and enumerate in advance what steps are to be taken should a problem event occur.

  Cutting Back Red Tape: “…What are we doing right now to make it so that if we say we’re open for business, are we actually open for business? Are there any setbacks? Are there any not needed things that are there in terms of sign ordinances for new businesses that are looking at opening up? Are our regulations too strict? What other different impediments are there opening up a business or a large business park or anything like that? So, that’s going to be something that we’re looking at within the course of the next two, maybe two to three years.“

  We also spoke about the Sludge Landfill, public transportation, parking, future grants, city projects including upcoming improvements to the Ovila Case playground and the upcoming Greenwood Pavilion, wayfaring (signage) in the City, and even repairs to City Hall itself. Mayor Nicholson wants to see Gardner continue the monentum and detailed various areas. For all the details, listen to the entire interview.

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• WGAW Weekdays

  

  Massachusetts Native Headlines Noon Hour on WGAW Radio

  The Grace Curley Show airs from noon to 2pm on Gardner MA WGAW, heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streamed worldwide. Shown in the graphic is the complete weekday program schedule.

  For more information including the Saturday, Sunday, and special program schedules, visit the WGAW website, CLICK HERE.

  Grace Curley is from Milton, Massachusetts and off the airwaves is also a contributing writer for the Boston Herald and Spectator USA. Curley graduated Magna Cum Laude from Providence College in 2014 and became a mailroom manager’s assistant for the Howie Carr Radio Network. Curley learned about the radio industry from Howie Carr and soon earned the position of Executive Producer. In the fall of 2019, Grace produced the top charting podcast Dirty Rats and quickly became a radio personality, amassing a large following.

  Gardner Magazine often reports on the WGAW Hotline Radio Show which airs Saturday from noon to 2pm. Listen to archived shows, CLICK HERE.

  A WGAW weekday starts off with Gordon Deal and his team delivering America’s First News. Following is Steve Wendell with the Morning News from 6-9am. The popular Mike Gallagher runs from 9 to noon, Grace Curley at noon, Scott Jennings at 2pm, Hugh Hewitt at 3pm, Mark Levin at 6pm, John Batchelor at 9pm, and Red Eye Radio at 1am. The station is on the air 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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• Pearl Street Paving Update

  

  Weather Delays Completion of Pearl Street Paving

  Here is the alert issued by the City of Gardner: “Pearl Street Paving Work To Be Completed on Mon. Nov. 17th. Please be advised that due to the unexpected weather, crews got a late start and were unable to finish Pearl St. paving. Project will be completed on Monday, Nov. 17th if weather cooperative. Traffic will be allowed down Pearl St from rotary to Catherine St but traffic exiting Catherine will use detour to Lawrence St. Thank you for your patience.”

  Gardner Elementary, Gardner Middle, and Gardner High Schools are all located off of Pearl Street. That is why the logistics of completing the work while working around the school schedule have been difficult. The original plan was to finish the paving on Saturday when school is not in session.

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• Lost My Elbow – original song

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases an original song, the very goofy and silly “Lost My Elbow”

  Listen to the original fun song “Lost My Elbow” in Country, Pop, and Barbershop versions.

  From the song: “I lost, I lost, I lost my elbow,Can’t find it, where did it go? – I lost, I lost, I lost my elbow, Can’t find it, where did it go?…(where did it go?)“

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• Inside Council 11-17-25

  

  The Gardner Tax Rate has been set at $13.77. Image shows the math approved by the State of MA. CLICK Image for larger view.

  DEEP DIVE – Upcoming City Council Meeting of November 17, 2025

  Gardner Magazine has prepared a “Deep Dive” with hosts the Chair Man and the Chair Lady who discuss the upcoming Gardner City Council meeting of November 17, 2025. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  The meeting is jam-packed with information including the Tax Rate Recapitulation, (Tax Rate $13.77), the Gardner Housing Priority Zone as part of a proposal to promote housing growth, and the details of improvements at the Gardner Landfill. Some MART ridership details are also addressed. The demolition process for the Greenwood indoor pool is also reviewed. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Once again, Gardner Mayor Nicholson is proposing 10% of free cash be earmarked towards Gardner roads. The DEEP DIVE is very helpful if you find the subjects complicated (like we do) and Gardner Magazine hopes it is helpful to you.

  

  

  Shown at Left: – The proposed City of Gardner Housing Priority Zone. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

  Shown at Center: Various parts of the Gardner Sanitary Landfill. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

  View the entire City Council packet of 11-17-25 for more information, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 11-15-25

  

  THANKSGIVING Turkey Trot with Candy Graves and Winter Preparation with Gardner Civil Defense Director Paul Topolski on WGAW Hotline Radio of November 15, 2025

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

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of November 15th featured an ABC Report on the Government Shutdown with a focus on SNAP Benefits. Steve Wendell interviewed Candy Graves on the 46th Annual Turkey Trot Race taking place on November 27th. The fundraiser for track and field groups starts at Gardner City Hall. There was an ABC Report on weight loss drugs. Paul Topolski spoke with Steve Wendell about Winter Preparation. Mike Urban had a report on Home Energy prices. Werner Poegel had a commentary on National Philanthropy Day.

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• This Week 11-14-25

  

  This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, November 14, 2025

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

  In this week’s edition: AUDIO Snafu – Festival of Trees Opens – Pearl Street Paving – Heywood Healthcare and Telebehavioral Health – Gardner Housing Authority – Conservation Commission – Science of Asphalt – Veterans Day Ceremony – School Committee members speak out about election – Nurses Recognized – MCAS Scores – Events at Chestnut St. United Methodist Church – Hazard Mitigation input – Handel’s Messiah – original songs – Upcoming Meetings.

  Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.

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• AUDIO Snafu

  

  Publisher’s Note: Gardner Magazine utilizes the City of Gardner YouTube videos to generate the AUDIO we provide in articles. Usually our editing only involves cutting out blank AUDIO at the beginning of meetings or when there’s a recess. The meetings recorded by Gardner Educational TV do have consistently better AUDIO.

  Council President Tyros Requests Proactive Action After AUDIO Snafu

  Gardner residents going to the City of Gardner YouTube page, CLICK HERE this week will notice that there’s no AUDIO in the recording of both the Finance Committee and Appointments Committee meetings of November 13th. Apparently other subsequent meetings met the same fate but are not posted.

  Council President George Tyros has made a request for proposals to create a more permanent setup. Currently, a meeting Owl is used in combination with a laptop. Tyros wrote to IT Director Bob O’Keefe: “I just spoke with the Clerk to confirm that we did not capture audio of the three Council subcommittee meetings this week, even after the initial issue was found after Wednesday’s meetings. I find this highly unusual but think it has highlighted an inefficiency the City has had for a long time in the process of recording meetings that I would now like addressed.

  I’d like to request two proposals for the setup of a permanent video conferencing & recording solution that stays in the room and is managed by the IT Department. One proposal for the Council Chamber. And a second proposal for the Council Chamber, Hubbard Conference Room and Mayor’s Conference Room. Please let me know when you expect to have the proposals complete.”

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• Festival of Trees Opens

  

  Festival of Trees Opens

  Gardner Museum 2025 Festival of Trees runs through December 6th. The Festival of Trees features beautiful displays of Christmas Trees, fabulous holiday displays, and such items as gift baskets. Admission to the Festival of Trees is $3 or FREE for members or FREE if you buy a sheet of 26 raffle tickets for $5. You may buy as many sheets of raffle tickets as you wish. Drawing starts December 6th at 3pm. Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays 1pm to 4pm, Fridays 1pm to 7pm, Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 4pm. The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner.

  The Gardner Museum wrote: “Not feeling like decorating a tree this year? We’ve got you covered! Our 20th Annual Festival of Trees is NOW OPEN to the public! We love to put up this wonderful annual community event! Look at the festive holiday magic all through our beautiful historic building! You could win a decorated tree and take it home for the holidays. And your ticket money supports our nonprofit museum When you visit, please consider donating an item for our annual Winter Coat Drive: gently (!) worn or new winter coats, boots, other winter items, toiletries & non-perishable food items (collection box in Lower Lobby). Everything will be distributed directly to Gardner families in need through the Gardner CAC. Our community’s need for support is bigger than ever. Please share the word & help us help others!”

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• Pearl Street Paving

  

  It’s Pearl Street Paving Time! – Saturday November 15, 2025 in Gardner MA

  Preparations have been made. And now the long awaited paving date is here. Pearl Street in Gardner will be paved on Saturday November 15th. It has been a difficult project due to the road’s proximity to the entrances to Gardner High School, Gardner Middle School, and Gardner Elementary School.

  The City of Gardner advised: “ATTENTION!! Pearl Street Paving Work on Saturday Nov. 15th. Please be advised that there will be paving construction detours on Pearl Street tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 15th between Betty Spring Road and the Uptown Rotary at the intersection of Elm St and Green Street. Seek alternative routes!“

  Over the past week, there have been numerous reports of drivers getting flat tires on their vehicles. Drivers have been advised by the City of Gardner to go through their own insurance companies who may in turn seek reimbursement from the contractor.

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• Behavioral Health Success

  

  Heywood Healthcare Demonstrates Success in School-Based Telebehavioral Health

  We have the complete Fiscal Year 2025 School- Based Telebehavioral Report for your review, see pdf, CLICK HERE, Gardner Magazine also prepared a “Deep Dive” podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  In a post, Heywood Healthcare pointed out that the report highlights the statewide impact of this innovative pilot program and that Heywood Healthcare is featured as a key partner with the lowest no-show rate of just 9% vs. 15% at other sites, with a stronger reach of 5.6% of enrolled students accessing services vs. 2.5% and better outcomes with 45% of students showing improved anxiety and depression scores.. Heywood stated: “
  A huge thank-you to our funder, The Brookline Center, our amazing SBS staff, school partners, and the students & families who make this work possible.”

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• Public Housing Upgrades

  

  Weatherization and Heating Efficiency Upgrades made at public housing authorities – What it means for Gardner and the region.

  Massachusetts oversees about 43,000 units of state-funded public housing. The finalized contracts, executed with local housing authorities across the state, will help make those homes warmer, healthier and more energy-efficient for tens of thousands of residents. The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (HLC) announced that construction upgrades are underway at 54 public housing authorities across the state, Complete details from Mass.gov, click here.

  The Gardner Housing Authority is getting $6,098,222.00 for oil furnace to air-source heat pump conversion and $1,104,353.00 for gas stove replacement with electric for a total of over $7.2 million. Elsewhere in the region, the Fitchburg Housing Authority is getting $3,361,104.00 for emergency roof replacement and rooftop ventilation repairs. The Holden Housing Authority, $2,116,030.00 for electric baseboard to air-source heat pump conversion (Phase 2). Lancaster Housing Authority, $517,133 for fire alarm upgrade. – The Ware Housing Authority, $412,858.00 for paving.

  “Public housing should be warm in the winter, cool in the summer and efficient all year long,” said Ed Augustus, Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. “These investments deliver common-sense upgrades — from tighter windows and doors to modern heating systems and heat pumps — that make homes more comfortable, reduce energy costs and extend the life of our buildings. HLC is proud to move this work forward with our local housing authority partners.”

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• Conservation 11-10-25

  

  Conservation Commission Reviews Wetlands Protection Act Compliance for Various Local Projects

  The Gardner Conservation Commission met on November 10, 2025. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  The Commission held several public hearings and administrative updates. The primary focus of the meeting is the review of Wetlands Protection Act compliance for various local projects, including a request to build a carport at 31 Travers Street that faces significant opposition due to its proximity to a brook and within a no-build zone. Two other notices of intent are discussed: one for drainage improvements at Dunn State Park and another for a building addition and parking lot at Mount Wachusett Community College, both of which receive favorable reviews for improving environmental conditions. The commission also addresses a proposal for a multi-purpose barn at 827 Green Street for a treatment facility, which is continued pending a state file number, and concludes with updates on a culvert replacement and meeting scheduling.

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• Greater Gardner Asphalt

  

  The Science of Asphalt and its Greater Gardner Impact – a Gardner Magazine Report

  Road paving in Greater Gardner is often a source of considerable discussion because the citizenry would like roads paved in a more timely manner. However, at $1 million per mile, road paving is expensive. In the City of Gardner, paving all 100+ miles of roads in one year would in total be more than the total Municipal, School, and Enterprise fund budgets for the entire year. Our question: Is there science which documents that a different paving mix would yield a longer lasting road and could the City of Gardner ask for a different mix? We have a Deep Dive with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discussing Plastic in Asphalt which might solve 2 problems: find a home for plastic waste and create longer-lasting pavement. And the Deep Dive covers the concept of developing an asphalt mix. The research is not over and is needed before major changes are made. Listen to the findings on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  In the City of Gardner

  So what if the City of Gardner said to a contractor, I would like a different mix? Well, we actually asked DPW Director Dane Arnold who explained that “ I would hate to change from MDOT to our own mix recipe and then have it fail and waste taxpayers’ money. I’d weigh on the safe side until there was a proven better mix type for the Northeast.” And to understand why Arnold made that statement, we take you to the process undertaken by the State of Massachusetts which is rigid: Paving companies have to get approval from the State for the particular mix they will be using. Webpage, CLICK HERE.

  The Rigid Asphalt Mix Approval Process in Massachusetts

  The State maintains a webpage with a list of approved asphalt mix companies. There are about 2 dozen in Massachusetts. To be an approved asphalt plant the facility must: Submit a quality systems manual, be audited by the research and materials sections, use a NETTCP qualified laboratory which can perform specific tests required by the State of MA, and possess MassDot approved Superpave mix designs. In addition, the MassDOT RMS will issue a mix design approval letter for each year. Therefore, when the City of Gardner goes out to bid for a particular project, it specifies that a mix approved for the particular use be used. Second-guessing the already existing system might sound exciting, but as Arnold points out, it might “waste taxpayers’ money.” Here’s the current list of asphalt production facilities in the State, CLICK HERE. We also have a Federal HMA Asphalt Guide available on pdf for your review, CLICK HERE.

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• Veterans Day 2025

  

  Gardner Veterans Day Ceremony

  A Veterans Day Ceremony was held on November 11, 2025 at 11am in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Listen to the ceremony on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Steve Wendell served as MC and Keynote Speaker as State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and MVOC Director Stephanie Marchetti scooted off to Winchendon to finish off the ceremony there. Speakers at the Gardner ceremony included Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, City Council President George Tyros, Steve Wendell, and Niqui LaViolette.

  Music from the Gardner High School Band included America the Beautiful, a medley of Armed Forces Service Anthems, and there was a Poem recital “In Flanders Fields”

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated in a post after the ceremony: “Thank you to the Gardner Veterans Council for organizing today’s Veterans Day Ceremony at City Hall! Thank you to all of our veterans for your sacrifice and service both while in uniform and the ways you’ve continued to serve our communities after. I’m proud to be the mayor of a City that does so much to honor those who have served.”

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• Hurst – Swartz on Election

  

  Just under 25% of registered voters cast ballots in the recent Gardner Municipal Election. Here is a pdf of the unofficial results from the City Clerk’s office, CLICK HERE.

  Anne Hurst and Robert Swartz Speak Out About Election

  Listen to their comments on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  School Committee Member Anne Hurst on the Contentious Election: “...It was a little contentious this year, and we really need to, as a society, just really think more about what we’re saying and doing, and really not making the problems worse by spreading false information, or even just passing, social media is so hard because it can make you depressed in, like, five seconds. And, you know, whether you’re for the left or for the right, it doesn’t matter. We don’t need to share it because we don’t need to be divided. And that’s all I have to say.”

  School Committee Member Robert Swartz on Low Voter Turnout: “Relative to the election last Tuesday, I’m a warden for a 3A, and then what I say could be multiplied to all the other precincts throughout the city. I just find it amazing that in 3A there are 1,706 registered voters, and there is only 362 people that voted. I know some of the attitudes are, it’s not important. Every election, whether it be local, state, or federal, is important. It’s essential that we exercise our privilege to vote, or otherwise that privilege will be taken away if we vote for the wrong person. Sorry to get on the soapbox, but I thought it was important.” And then Anne Hurst stated: “I already did that, so…”

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Looking for an older story? Or just want to read them? CLICK HERE for more Greater Gardner MA Local News Stories.

News Around Massachusetts – New England – Nation

• Shop Rietta

  Rietta Flea Market is now open Sundays beginning at 7AM. Last day of 2022 season is October 30^th Rietta is opening Sunday, April 2nd, 2023 and plans to serve you as a Flea Market for the next year and the next one and the next one….. Thank you for your patronage now and in the many years to come.. Website

  

More News Around Gardner MA

• Community Spotlight

  

  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: Ashburnham– Town of Lakes, Ashby – smallest town, Athol-the Tool Town, Barre – Town of Patriots, Gardner – The Chair City, Hardwick – Oldest Fair, Hubbardston -1015 above sea level, New Salem – Home of Quabbin Reservoir, Oakham – Coldbrook Springs, Orange – Home of Peace Statue, Petersham – Conservation, Phillipston – Historic Town Center, Princeton – Mt. Wachusett, Royalston – Forests and Falls, Rutland – Geographic Center of MA, Templeton – Town of 4 Villages, Warwick – Mt. Grace & Forest, Westminster – Historic Places, Winchendon – 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, ,Don’t play the fun games too long. Let us know what you like and what you’d 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 – ASHBY – ATHOL – BARRE – GARDNER – HARDWICK – HUBBARDSTON – NEW SALEM – OAKHAM – ORANGE – PETERSHAM – PHILLIPSTON – PRINCETON – ROYALSTON – RUTLAND – TEMPLETON – WARWICK – WESTMINSTER – WINCHENDON. A great tool to quickly find out what’s going on in the Greater Gardner region.

Massachusetts News This Week

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  In the Community

Greater Gardner MA News Extras

• Gardner Tops 21K

  

  Gardner MA Population Statistics

  According to the U.S. Census, Gardner has a population of 21,287.    Median Household Income is about $50,000.   Those with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher is close to 1 in 5.   More than half of the population is employed.  98% have health care coverage.   There’s 9,411 total housing units with 691 vacant according to the Census Bureau.  Gardner’s median estimated age of 41 is slightly above the median age in Massachusetts.  One statistic to note: Average Gardner commute time is just under ½ hr. so there’s room for more local employers.  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

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