Local

Around Greater Gardner MA

• Cannabis and Driving

  

  Marijuana – Cannabis Users in Greater Gardner MA Risk High Chance of Death If They Drive

  A study of a county in Ohio showed 40% of deceased drivers tested positive for active THC with average blood levels far exceeding typical impairment limits. If you live in Greater Gardner MA and drive soon after smoking pot or consuming cannabis in any other form, you most likely will end up DEAD, sooner rather than later. Listen to our podcast “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Read the Press Release from the American College of Surgeons, CLICK HERE. Information from the CDC, CLICK HERE.

  Bottom Line: Both organizations emphasize that driving while impaired by cannabis is dangerous and illegal, posing a serious public safety risk. And worse: The impairment causes crashes resulting in fatalities. Solution: Don’t use and drive just like you don’t drink and drive.

  ---

• Got My Smile in Gardner – Original Song

  

  Inspired by the good people of Gardner, Gardner Magazine Releases “Got My Smile in Gardner”

  When some people come to Gardner, Massachusetts, they are so impressed with the warm welcome from the community that they end up staying in the City. Listen on any device to the original song “I Got My Smile in Gardner (And It Won’t Go Away”. CLICK PLAY to any of 3 versions.

  A man came for dinner in Gardner and ended up staying and buying a home. This is a fictional song based on true stories.

  ---

• Tiny Houses

  

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Initiatives to Help Homeless Proposes Additional Step

  At the Gardner City Council meeting on Monday, October 6th, the councilors will discuss a
  proposal signed by Mayor Michael Nicholson and Councilor Karen Hardern to modify zoning to promote housing growth and production in Gardner. The proposal would allow up to 10 tiny homes and efficiency homes per acre by right in residential and overlay districts. Projects exceeding 10 units per acre or those in a commercial district would require review by the Planning Board. A non-profit, for example, could build 10 units on a lot to help the homeless. They could do that by right. For more units, they’d just get permission from the Planning board. View details in the complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  The Gardner Mayor has been working with various non-profits to better address identified housing issues in Gardner. During the past 5 years, Nicholson has been actively promoting additional housing units and the Gardner Team has been working with developers to bring projects to fruition.

  ---

• El Coqui Open Again

  

  El Coqui Latin Food Store Open Again

  El Coqui Latin Food Store is open at 13 Pleasant Street in Downtown Gardner. They were originally located at the corner of Main and Parker Streets when they got all 5 star Google reviews.

  “Great market!! The cashier was super sweet, and they have a little bit of everything here. Coco Lopez, sofrito, fresh yuca, Malta India, pastelillos de guayaba and more. Honestly, if you’re missing just a little taste of the island, or even if you’ve never tried Puerto Rican snacks and drinks before, this is the place to go in Gardner. Let’s continue to support our local shop owners!“

  “The cashier was nice. The store was clean and nice in selections. It is also the most affordable Spanish market I have been to. I will definitely return.”

  El Coqui Latin Food Store at 13 Pleasant Street, Gardner is located directly to the right of Parker House of Pizza.

  Another great destination in Downtown Gardner, “A Place to Enjoy.”

  ---

• Encampment Cleanup

  

  Gardner Police Department Informs Community about Encampment Site Cleanup

  The Gardner Police Department Community Policing Team along with individuals from GAMMHA, Inc., Alyssa’s Place Peer Recovery and Resource Center, Gardner Walmart, and Keep Gardner Beautiful came together on October 4, 2025 to clean up a former encampment site.

  The Gardner PD posted: “This effort included helping a community member relocate with support and resources, ensuring care and respect were at the center of our actions. We’re grateful to our partners and volunteers for showing how compassion and teamwork keep Gardner strong.”

  

  ---

• Development – October

  

  Development Committee Gets Updates

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

  
  The Economic and Community Development Committee meeting was held on October 3, 2025, with Director Jason Stevens detailing updates on several key municipal projects and initiatives. Discussions centered on the Rear Main project, which is facing delays due to waiting on approval from National Grid for underground utility movement, and the Master Plan, which involves public outreach via an October open house and has seen internal departmental review of inventory and assessment reports. The committee also covered updates on the Hazard Mitigation Plan, noting a lack of public attendance at a recent information session in September.

  Several property sales in urban renewal zones that are moving forward with buyers were discussed including the Garbose Property on Mill Street and 205-213 Main Street. (property across from Gardner PD). Director Stevens noted that anything built on that lot will not obscure the view. Regarding the demolition of the Greenwood Pool building: While the asbestos abatement successfully completed, the city is now waiting for Mass DEP regarding concerns over waste oil in various equipment Finally, the meeting addressed the status of and ongoing issues related to Maki Park construction funding and timeline. Work at Maki Park is still expected to be completed by sometime in November.

  ---

• Hotline 10-4-25

  

  WGAW Hotline Radio Show Highlights Progress in the Chair City- and Heartwarming Dennis Praeger Interview

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

  Kicking off the WGAW Hotline Radio Show on Saturday, October 4, 2025 was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Topics included: MWCC Auto Program Ribbon Cutting at Linus Allain Avenue – Levi Heywood Memorial Library expanded hours – How the library is funded – Hispanic Heritage Month – Domestic Violence Advocate at Gardner PD and Domestic Violence Vigil – Road Updates – Maki Park Contract signed and work to begin in a few weeks – Electricity Program ===== Integrity Commentary with Werner Poegel ====-Levi Heywood Memorial Library – interview with Director Marita Klements and Gardner City Councilor Judy Mack – Celebrating the newly expanded hours of the library. Also comments by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas and a youngster named Caleb. ====ABC Report on Jane Goodall who passed at 91. ==== In the 2^nd hour: An Interview with Dennis Praeger. His program has aired on WGAW from noon to 3pm prior to Praeger’s catastrophic injury. Praeger is now a paraplegic.

  ---

• Hope Masonic Pumpkins

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson Promoting Pumpkins in the Chair City on Friday, October 3, 2025

  This time, the non-profit Gardner Mayor Nicholson is promoting has lots of pumpkins just in time for the season.

  The Mayor posted, “It’s pumpkin season again in the City! Stop by the Big Chair at Helen Mae Sauter School at 130 Elm Street for the Hope Masonic Lodge’s annual pumpkin charity fundraiser. All funds raised from the pumpkins sold go to local charities for their work throughout the year.”

  ---

• This Week 10-3-25

  

  Our Weekly News Magazine – This Week in the Chair City for Friday, October 3, 2025

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

  Included this week: Levi Heywood Memorial Library – Comfort Dog – MWCC – Fiscal 2026 Budget – Veterans Services Agreements – Cottage Kitchens – Electric Plan – Breast Cancer Awareness – Song Releases – Upcoming Meetings – Progress with Gardner Youth Center – Modifying Zoning for Tiny Homes.

  Contact Gardner Magazine via email: News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324

  ---

• Library – October

  

  For more information, please visit the Levi Heywood Memorial Library website, CLICK HERE.

  Levi Heywood Memorial Library October 2025

  The library is having a teen open house on Saturday October 4^th from 11am to 3pm. A Meet and greet with the new teen librarian is included. Teens can share ideas for the space, programs, books, and more and enjoy snacks and activities. Other activities coming up include Tuesday, October 14^th at 4pm: Korean snacks, romance novels, and K-Pop, and, Undead Dolls Thursday October 30^th from 5-7pm to celebrate the spooky season.

  Gardner Library starts October with Expanded Hours of Monday and Tuesday: 9am-6pm, Wednesday and Thursday 9am to 7pm, and Friday and Saturday 9am to 3pm. The library is closed on Sundays.

  Another free program is on Wednesday October 8^th at 6pm feautirng Varla Ventura, who will dive deep into the folklore of werewolves, including Scandinavian lore.

  Gardner Magazine was provided with a complete calendar of the October Children’s programs, CLICK HERE.

  On October 15^th at 5:30pm, the library has a program for teens and adults called “Witchy Book Craft”. The FREE program includes FREE supplies but is limited to the first 30 participants.

  ---

• Woody 10-3-25

  

  GES Comfort Dog Gets Official Vest

  GES posted, “Woody passed all of his tests to swap his training vest for an official GES Facility Dog vest! We are so proud of him!“

  Before Woody was able to serve Gardner Elementary School, the chocolate lab trained for 1000 hours with ColdSprings Healing Paws. Woody was funded by a $10,000 grant from the William Rockwell fund. Woody is currently about 18 months old.

  Woody is the very first facility dog at Gardner Elementary School.

  ---

• MWCC Auto

  

  MWCC Facility on Linus Allain Avenue Holds Ribbon Cutting

  On October 2, 2025, MWCC posted, “We had an amazing ribbon cutting today at our Automotive Education Facility! This beautiful new space and the equipment filling it are here for, and because of, our students! Thank you all for choosing the Mount, and thank you to our partners for the support that has allowed us to create this leading educational facility.”

  ---

• Aleksander Dernalowicz

  

  Gardner Magazine has received permission to post Angela’s statement and the photos shown here.

  Angela Dernalowicz, wife of Ward 5 Councilor, Aleksander Dernalowicz Releases Statement

  Angela Dernalowicz posted:

  “I was recently made aware by a social media post that people don’t really know my husband, Dern, and the fact hes the ward 5 councilor. Also that he is “unengaged and uninterested” in the City of Gardner. So, I thought this would be a great chance to introduce him

  Dern has lived in Gardner his entire life, right here in the same house, in South Gardner (Ward 5). His family has deep roots in the community, his father a local teacher and professor, and his grandfather ran the recreation department for many years.

  For the past 6 years, Dern has proudly served on the City Council. He works full-time, currently chairs the Finance Committee, and has also chaired the Welfare Committee in the past. He’s a member of the Golf Commission, runs a local golf league, and most importantly, is an active and dedicated father.

  I’ve seen firsthand how much time and effort he puts into helping constituents, attending events, and the hours spent preparing for meetings. He cares deeply about this city and about the people he represents.

  Dern is once again running for Ward 5 Councilor! Come out and vote on November 4, 2025!”

  ---

  “

• Finance 10-1-25

  

  Gardner Finance Committee Discusses Various Municipal Matters

  The Gardner MA Finance Committee met on October 1, 2025 and heard a detailed update from the City Auditor John Richard regarding the Fiscal 2026 Budget, the free cash certification process, and the status of the health insurance trust fund. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The committee also considered and recommended several financial orders to the full council and other revenues for a supplemental budget that includes police body cameras and an ambulance purchase, and a measure to authorize borrowing for the Middle School roof replacement project under MSBA guidelines. Finally, the committee addressed the formation of a review committee for RFP submissions for city-owned properties and a renewal of an intermunicipal agreement for veteran services.

  ---

• Public Welfare 9-29-25

  

  Public Welfare Committee Makes Recommendations and Hears Department Updates

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

  
  The committee first considers and approves a measure allowing the Mayor to enter an intermunicipal agreement with the town of Hubbardston for veteran services, expanding the regional district through mid-2028. Following this, there is extensive discussion regarding a proposed ordinance to amend the city’s zoning code to allow the operation of cottage kitchens in residential districts, an effort to reduce “red tape” and formalize existing home-based food businesses. Finally, the meeting includes Department updates from the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, where the director highlights newly expanded open hours and infrastructure improvements, the Cable Commission discussing programming and challenges with outdated equipment, and the Senior Center, which reports significant financial and social services impact provided to its constituents.

  ---

• Hubb Connect Intro

  

  HubbConnect Officially Launched at Taste of Hubbardston on October 2, 2025.

  The Town of Hubbardston was recently honored with the Excellence in Municipal Service award at the Massachusetts Digital Government Summit for its creation of HubbCONNECT — According to the Town of Hubbardston “This recognition places Hubbardston alongside other communities acknowledged for real impact in public service and tech innovation creating proof that small towns can lead.“

  The Chair Man and the Chair Lady have a “Deep Dive” podcast on the HubbConnect event and more. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Town of Hubbardston posted, “We’re formally sharing HubbCONNECT with residents at Taste of Hubbardston and at the Grand Opening of our municipal campus at 48 Gardner Road on October 2. Come see live modules, try interfaces, and talk with the team.”

  ---

• Electric Plan – Gardner – 2025

  

  City of Gardner Announces 36 month Electric Plan

  The City of Gardner has announced that the new electricity supplier for the Community Choice Power Supply Program from November 2025 to November 2028 will be First Point Power. According to the First Point Power website, CLICK HERE, the supplier serves channel partners in Massachusetts and 4 other New England States.

  The rate quoted is $0.14280 per kWh for 36 months. The City of Gardner posted, “For comparison purposes, National Grid’s Basic Service rates are fixed from August 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026 — Residential at $0.15484 per kWh and Commercial at $0.14411 per kWh. No action is required by individual consumers. All accounts currently enrolled in the City’s Program will be switched to First Point as of the November 2025 meter reads. This change will be noted on the November 2025 bills and will be seen on the December 2025 bills. …For more detailed information about the City’s Program, including how to OPT-OUT or OPT-IN, or to access National Grid’s Basic Service rates, please visit colonialpowergroup.com/gardner or call First Point at (888) 875-1711. You may OPT-OUT or OPT-IN at any time in the future with NO CHARGE. Basic Service rates change twice a year or more, depending on rate class. As a result, the aggregation rate may not always be lower than the Basic Service rate. The goal of the aggregation is to deliver savings over the life of the Program against National Grid Basic Service. However, future savings cannot be guaranteed.”

  ---

• Breast Cancer Awareness

  

  Staff at Gardner City Hall Goes Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

  In an effort to save lives, the staff at Gardner City Hall went pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
  According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, breast cancer death rates in the United States have dropped by 44% since 1989. “For 40 years, Breast Cancer Awareness Month” has helped raise awareness of breast cancer across the nation. It has encourages millions to take action, resulting in increased early detection and advancements in treatment that have saved more than half million lives.” Website, CLICK HERE.

  Here’s a helpful resource. A pdf of “The 10 Screenings Women Should Know”, CLICK HERE.

  There are numerous resources on the National Breast Cancer Foundation website for you to download free. CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Templeton Update 10-1-25

  

  Periodic Town Report Provides View of Templeton Happenings.

  Activities of various municipal departments are detailed including Administration and Finance, Public Services, Building and Grounds, Parks and Recreation, Public Safety, and Development Services. Listen to a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady discussing the report and Templeton topics. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Juggling the Accountant Does. Tax Breaks. Highway, Buildings and Grounds. Public Safety and Training. Parks and Recreation. Social Services including rides. The library and story hour. Public Health and the Drought. TCTV. Building Permits. Community Preservation Committee. Zoning Board of Appeals.

  View a pdf of the Templeton report, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Ashburnham Oct ’25

  

  Ashburnham to hold Special Town Meeting on October 27, 2025

  A special town meeting originally scheduled in September will be held Monday, October 27, 2025 at 7pm. Location: Oakmont Regional High School Auditorium, 9 Oakmont Drive, Ashburnham.

  As of now, the expected Special Town Meeting articles may include: Article 1: Amend Chapter 250, Zoning Bylaws, Part 3, Sect 3.2.4, Floodplain District — Article 2: Adopt New MBTA Communities Multi-family Overlay District — Article 3: Veteran Exemption Amount Adjustment Based on the Hero Act — Article 4: Repair of Slate Roof and Restoration of Cupola at Town Hall — Article 5: Furnace Replacement (Piano Museum) — Article 6: Acceptance of state LAND grant for the purchase of conservation restrictions on 327 Ashby Rd (Timberlost Farm) and associated appropriations.

  More from the Town of Ashburnham website, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Ambulance – Phillipston

  

  Town of Phillipston Auctioning off Old Ambulance

  Available for sale is a 2007 Ford/Horton Ambulance that was recently taken out of service as it was replaced by a new ambulance. The Town of Phillipston has declared this vehicle as surplus property as they do not have a current need for it. The body is in good shape, the tires have been recently replaced, and the engine was rebuilt last year. Includes Stryker power lift stretcher. Interested parties need to place a bid on the item. On October 1, 2025 the current highest bid was $5,000.00. The auction ends on Monday October 13^th at 1pm. If you want to bid, here’s the link, CLICK HERE.

  Town of Phillipston website, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Winchendon PD

  

  Winchendon Police Chief Gives Presentation to Board

  At the Winchendon Select Board meeting of September 22, 2025, Winchendon Police Chief Daniel Wolski made a presentation about the Winchendon Police Department. Listen to the presentation and the questions asked by the Select Board on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Winchendon has 16 full time police officers. Chief Wolski spoke about all of the activities, programs, and challenges of the Winchendon PD. Wolski went over staffing levels and equipment needs. The chief spoke of community policing and partnerships with organizations to benefit the community. Wolski spoke of “aggressive investigation and prosecution of drug dealers that are dealing poison on the streets of our community.” There was also discussion about the current police department building and upcoming repair needs.

  The various topics discussed are similar to those faced by all of the police departments in the Greater Gardner area.

  ---

• Original Song – Positivity

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases the original song “Positivity”

  Take the moments of life in stride. Focus only on the positive side. Try to leave the big worries behind. Make your thoughts only the positive kind. We have 4 versions of the song, 3 varieties of ROCK and 1 is JAZZ. Listen to “Positivity” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  ---

• Emergency Preparedness

  

  A Gardner Magazine “Deep Dive” – Family Emergency Preparedness

  September is National Preparedness Month. The Chair Man and the Chair Lady speak about the ideal Emergency Kit, a Family Action Plan, and Prepping Your Home. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City of Gardner participates in CODE RED, a notification system. For additional information and to sign up, CLICK HERE.

  For more information from the State of MA on preparing for emergencies, CLICK HERE

  The U.S. Government has a very informative emergency website at Ready.gov, CLICK HERE.

  September is National Preparedness Month. Here’s more information, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Original Song – Integrity

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases the original song about truth: “Integrity”

  Listen to the original song “Integrity” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “Integrity is a life of truth, of honor, a protective inside moral banner, A righteous asset worth more than gold, Never, ever should honesty be sold. “

  

  Integrity – Truth, has a value greater than gold.

  ---

• Oktoberfest Held

  

  Oktoberfest and Chair Luge Held in Gardner

  On Saturday, September 27, 2025, the 20th Annual Oktoberfest and 15th Annual Chair Luge were held in Downtown Gardner.

  Weather was good and hundreds came for the food, the beer, the vendors, the fun, the music and the Chair Luge. Winner of the Chair Luge for the 4th year in a row was “Green Machine”

  ---

• Hotline 9-27-25

  

  The Winner of the 15th Annual Gardner Chair Luge is: “Green Machine” – which is their 4th win in a row. Prize is $200 in 1 dollar bills.

  Hotline Radio “on the road” with a LIVE Broadcast from the Chair Luge in Downtown Gardner

  The WGAW Hotline Radio Show on Saturday September 27, 2025 was extended past 2pm to broadcast the 15th Annual Chair Luge from Downtown Gardner. Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Host Steve Wendell opened the program with a rundown of local events taking place in the area.

  Next up was first guest Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who spoke from his location at the 20th Annual Oktoberfest in Downtown Gardner and also mentioned the Library book sale. Discussion then focused on projects in Gardner with the Mayor stating he had signed the contract in the past week for the work to commence at Maki Park. Nicholson provided interesting information on the City’s 3rd party grant writer who is out of D.C. and has a team of 7.

  The Mayor went over the work done at Waterford in the past week – Social Media posts about 1000’s of gallons of water were and are completely false. Waterford meets all fire codes. Various inspections, clearances, permits, and tests have been done and the building is safe for the public. Don’t believe the nonsense on Social Media. — The Mayor discussed the sale of various buildings — Nicholson went over the timeline on demolition of the Greenwood Pool building which is expected in about 2-3 weeks. There was about a 1 week delay due to a larger than anticipated amount of asbestos found in the building.

  Other topics on Hotline Radio included: —- National Museum Day Commentary with Werner Poegel focusing on the Gardner Museum of Gardner MA. —- ABC Reports on James Comey indictment and gun violence in the U.S. —- Interview with Erika Kirk on the Salem Network. —- Interview with Shawn Hayden of GAAMHA. — Steve Wendell was LIVE in Downtown Gardner for the Chair Luge. Various officials stopped by to share a few comments. There was a beautiful LIVE performance of the Star Spangled Banner by an individual identified only as Jeremy. The entire Chair Luge was broadcast LIVE with play by play descriptions of the various runs.

  ---

• National Museum Day

  

  Highlighting the Gardner Museum of Gardner MA on National Museum Day

  Listen to our commentary and report on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  National Museum Day is Saturday, September 27, 2025 and is a perfect opportunity to highlight one of the true gems of Gardner, the Gardner Museum. Located at 28 Pearl Street right off of the Uptown Rotary, the Gardner Museum features so much more than local history.

  On Sunday, September 28th, the Gardner Museum features the opening of the Harrison Cady Exhibit with a special ribbon cutting and raffle at 3pm. 21 Harrison Cady works will be on display. The Seal of the City of Gardner was designed by Cady in 1922.

  The Gardner Museum recently kicked off its fall season with the Fall-Winter sports exhibit which runs until December 19th. The 20th Anniversary Festival of Trees begins on November 12th.

  ---

• Update 9-26-25

  

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson Updates the Chair City

  In this first update of Fall 2025, Gardner Mayor Nicholson has a wide array of municipal announcements and covers numerous community events. From the 20th Annual Oktoberfest and 15th Annual Chair Luge taking place on September 27th to dates for Halloween to cultural events, listen so you’re fully informed. On any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Mayor Nicholson also goes over the status of various buildings and provides an update on paving projects.

  ---

• This Week 9-26-25

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” for September 26, 2025

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

  New Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson — Kimberly Blake’s trouble with the state —CDBG Committee — 20th Annual Oktoberfest and 15th Annual Chair Luge — Board of Health —Conservation Commission — Bob O’Keefe Honored —- Economic Development —- Levi Heywood Memorial Library new hours — Original songs — Job openings with the City – 1 upcoming meeting.

  Here’s how to contact Gardner Magazine: Email News@GardnerMagazine.com and we’ll get back to you right away. Or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.

  ---

• Tough Questions 9-25-25

  

  “Tough Questions” Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on September 25, 2025. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  We asked tough questions because it is almost impossible to get Mayor Nicholson to say anything bad about anyone, let alone his opponent in the upcoming Mayoral Election, Kimberly Blake. The subject was a false post in Blake’s Rogue Facebook Group about thousands of gallons of water being pumped out of the Waterford Community Center basement. There was a truck there doing work, but not to pump out water. In the event there ever was any water, there are 2 new industrial grade sump pumps in place which would take care of the water. So again, the post was completely made-up nonsense yet again.

  UPDATE 9-25-25 8pm: At this hour, Kimberly Blake has not yet removed the anonymous post Blake knows is completely false. No truck was at Waterford removing thousands of gallons of water. In our interview, Gardner Mayor Nicholson explains how issues at Waterford were remediated and how 2 industrial sump pumps had been installed in the event there was any water at all coming in due to wet weather. The pumps would take care of any potential problem before there was even close to an issue.

  Here’s what Mayor Nicholson said about the Waterford basement: “There are two sets of sump pumps that are there in case it does get any water, it pumps it out. Now, this is New England. When it rains, just like several other houses that we have in the city, there may be times that the sump pumps do pump water out of there. And is it 100% bone dry? No, but neither is any basement here in the city. But we’ve had air quality reports done on the location. It shows that it’s safe. The air is safe in there. The basement is safe in there. There’s a lot of stuff that we’ve done to that building to remediate a lot of those concerns that have happened, and it’s all taken care of. Was there some work that was being done on the pumps earlier this week? Yes, there was. In fact, it’s a dirt floor sub basement that’s in there. So there was some filth that clogged up one of the pipes. So we had someone come in and unclog the pipes, install some filters, and now we’re ready to go, and everything’s working fine.”

  With respect to Blake’s bold-faced lies the Mayor was reserved: “My job isn’t to deal with the random lies that someone has for desperate click bait here and there. My job is to run the city, and that’s all we’re doing here….We’ve got a job to do, and that’s what I was elected to do here, to do the job, and that’s what I’m going to be doing.“

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson answered a number of questions centered around some of Kimberly Blake’s ridiculous suggestions, which if implemented, would cut out essential services like Fire, Police, and DPW due to lack of funding. We went over Mayor Nicholson’s efforts to reduce increases on property taxes through for example, the aggressive pursuit of grant funding which has brought in $60 million, and through efforts to increase revenue in other ways to soften the impact on property tax payers. Once again, Nicholson explained his efforts to put much more money in to paving roads than those who held the office before him. The Mayor also spoke about his efforts to bring a homeless shelter to Gardner and how he has been actively working with a number of non-profits towards that goal.

  ---

• CDBG 9-23-25

  

  Community Development Block Grant Committee Discusses CDBG Funding and Projects

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

  The Gardner Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Steering Committee Meeting was held on September 23, 2025.

  The committee discussed several topics related to CDBG funding and projects. There was an update on the demolition of 205-213 Main Street, which is now fully closed out with the land sale pending. Also discussed was the Greenwood Pool demolition and Outdoor Pavilion construction, noting slight delays due to asbestos abatement and the need for securing additional funding for the pavilion phase. The committee reviews the status of social services funding for Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024, highlighting improved processes for grant agreements and reporting requirements. Finally, there is extensive discussion regarding the potential sale or demolition of the School Street School, which holds a large portion of available unexpended CDBG funds, and initial conversations about new potential projects such as a community garden expansion and a private housing rehabilitation proposal.

  ---

  
  
  

• Oktoberfest Reminder

  

  Gardner MA 20th Annual Oktoberfest is Saturday, September 27th

  Rick Walton of the Gardner Ale House started a small Oktoberfest celebration at his restaurant back in 2006. Now, 20 years later, it is a City-wide event attended by visitors from many towns around.

  Schedule of Events: 10am: Run for a Beer, 11:00am: Hofbrauhaus Bavarian German Folk Band starts playing, 11:30am: Keg Tap with singing of Ein Prosit, 1pm: Men and Women’s Stein Holding Competition (Hold a 5lb mug of Oktoberfest Lager for as long as you can) 2pm: Chair Luge (a chair with wheels and some kind of brakes is all you need), 3pm: Cornhole Tournament. 3:00pm: Live Music on the Stage starting with Chris Fitz, 4:30pm Live Music with Disco Lemonade, 6:15pm: Music with Midnight Riders.

  The street party ends at 8pm. However, the pub at Moon Hill Brewing Company and the Gardner Ale House stay open a little longer. The Gardner Ale House is expected to once again have authentic German sausages, sauerkraut, potato salad, and soft pretzels. And of course, there will be Italian sausages, hamburgers, hot dogs, and pizza. If you go inside the Gardner Ale House, you can even get Wiener Schnitzel and other German delicacies. More information, CLICK HERE.

  

  Gardner MA 15th Annual Chair Luge is Saturday, September 27th

  Chair Luge starts at 2pm. This year’s Chair Luge Theme is Beetlejuice. There will be live music all day long. The event is sponsored by Moon Hill Brewing Company.

  The Chair Luge is simple. Some sort of chair with wheels designed by each individual racer is propelled by its own power downhill a few hundred feet on Parker Street. It’s an environmentally friendly event since the only fuel is gravity itself.

  ---

• Original Song – Gobbledygook

  

  Gardner Magazine releases original song about nonsense “Gobbledygook”

  Ever hear a nonsense chant in the form of a political rant? Been victim of a one-sided conversation made up of meaningless techo jargon? Had a discussion in which you didn’t even know what the other person was talking about? Then you’ll enjoy this Rockabilly song “Gobbledygook”. It’s stupid, silly, and fun all at the same time. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “I heard a lot of nonsense, Just meaningless words, Just a lot of techno jargon, Made a mess of my noggin, Cause It was gobbledygook…(gobbledygook)“

  ---

• Health 9-22-25

  

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

  1 member was absent at the meeting and the Board of Health is looking for an additional member. The Board of Health is now a 5 member board.

  Gardner Board of Health Meets with 3 members

  The Gardner Board of Health met on September 22, 2025. Topics included the adoption of revised private well regulations which will take effect on January 1, 2025. Several minor edits and clarifications were addressed regarding property transfers and rental properties.

  The Board also reviewed and approved a Title 5 local upgrade approval application for a failing septic system at 9 Stone Street. Health Director Micah Blondeau provided a comprehensive update to include info on the landfill leachate pump replacement process, safety and efficiency improvements at the transfer station, a discussion of the Swap Shop now open Fridays and Saturdays, and the successful negotiation of a new curbside trash collection contract with E.L. Harvey.

  ---

• Sandy Beach

  

  The hidden “Laptop Man” is Commission Chair Gregory Dumas.

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

  Conservation Commission Discusses a “Sandy Beach” at First Meeting of Fall

  On September 22, 2025, the Gardner Conservation Commission held a hearing relative to a property on Kendall Pond. The Commission approved the request filed by Frances McFaul for the proposed addition and distribution of sandy fill next to his home at 71 Kendall Pond East in Gardner. The fill is for the beach next to Kendall Pond.

  The various enforcement orders were continued to October 27th. Agent Justin Enright detailed efforts to revise Standard Operating Procedures for site visits. The commission also discussed potential designs for a local nature trail with plans to get pricing from DPW for installation.

  ---

• IT Honors

  

  Two Local Communities Honored by Executive Office of Technology Services and Security

  On September 18, 2025, the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security held the 31^st annual Digital Government Summit in Boston. City of Gardner IT Chief Bob O’Keefe got the Cybersecurity and Risk Management Award. O’Keefe is known to be on top of appropriate computer and server updates to include the operating system and the latest and most effective anti-virus software and other cybersecurity measures. Other communities have been known to call O’Keefe for advice. O’Keefe has been instrumental in helping City of Gardner residents use technology to better access City services electronically, with particular help to the City Clerk’s office. Examples: Online Business Certificates , — City of Gardner Online Payment Center, CLICK HERE. — City of Gardner openGov Online services, CLICK HERE.

  The Town of Hubbardston got the Excellence in Municipal Service Award for their platform, HubCONNECT. Hubbardston Town Administrator Nathan Boudreau collaborated with others in the town to create HubCONNECT completely in-house, creating a unique user experience which is visible on the town’s website, CLICK HERE. –

  Other Massachusetts Excellence in Technology Awards which were presented included: The Secretary’s Leadership & Innovation Award went to Matthew Joseph of City of New Bedford. Excellence in Service Award was presented to the IT Team of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC). The Collaboration & Partnerships Award goes to the City of Chelsea, Metropolitan Area Planning Council for their WiFi Initiative. The Spirit of Massachusetts Award goes to the Town of Orleans for their program, Device Advice. The OneGov Partnership Award goes to EOTSS own Mass Digital. Last but not least, the Gov’s Citations – Municipal Cybersecurity Award was presented to Central Massachusetts Collaborative Technology Team’s Alden Thompson, Town of Arlington Information Technology Department, Town of Easton, Information Technology Department’s Mike Deltano, Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office’s Joshua Straughn and the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Information Technology Department, Town of Shrewsbury Public Schools and SELCO (Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations) Team, and Holbrook Public Schools’s Robert King.

  ---

• Development Sept 25

  

  Maki Park Construction to be Completed by November

  At the September 19, 2025 meeting of the Gardner Economic Development and Planning Committee, Director Jason Stevens provided a complete update on funding and construction timelines for the completion of Maki Park. The construction is being done to address some ADA compliance issues discovered after the park was initially constructed over a year ago. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  Economic Development and Finance Manager Iris Kwafo-Mensah (pictured lower-left) was introduced at the meeting. Director Jason Stevens went over her qualifications which includes a Master’s degree from Harvard, experience as a grant management consultant, and previous work with the Ministry of Finance in the country of Ghana during the Covid pandemic.

  More regarding the Maki Park Project

  Busy Bee Nurseries will complete the work to include railings, ramps, landings, and other details such as wheelchair accessible tables to bring the park to ADA compliance. Total cost of the upcoming construction: $58,863. Gardner Magazine has reached out the Jason Stevens and offered to publish the updated design plans. Work is to begin after the September 27th Oktoberfest event in Downtown Gardner with completion by late November at the latest.

  ---

• Streamflow 9-25

  

  Gardner MA Streamflow is Still Low

  The City of Gardner MA bases water restrictions on the streamflow at Otter River. Live Data, CLICK HERE.

  Measurements on September 21, 2025 show the streamflow at 3.87 cubic feet per second. Our graphic shows values for the past year, 30 days, and 7 days.

  The City of Gardner had informed Mass DEP of low streamflow values on July 27, 2025 because values had fallen below 11 cubic feet per second at USGS Gage ID#01163200 in Otter River. That triggered a requirement in the Water Management Act permit requiring nonessential water use restrictions. Current restriction is no nonessential outdoor water use from 9am to 5pm.

  If and when values exceed 11 cubic feet per second for 7 consecutive days, the water ban would be lifted. Right now, it’s still well below half that value. Our previous article in July featured a “Deep Dive” on the Water Management Act, CLICK HERE. The Water Management Act Guidance is contained in a 69 page guide, CLICK HERE.

  ---

• Original Song – Fall

  

  Gardner Magazine releases the original song: “Fall”

  The first day of Fall, 2025 is Monday, September 22, 2025. Listen to this original pop ballad with great piano and saxophone on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “The days get shorter, The air gets cooler, The leaves change color, Animals prepare for winter. It’s time for Fall.”

  ---

Around Massachusetts and New England

• Various Links to Various Content

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

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

  

  

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

  

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

  

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