Local News Gardner MA

Gardner MA Breaking News

• City Council 11-18-24

  

  Gardner City Council Meets in Both Informal and Formal Sessions on November 18, 2024

  Informal Meeting: Regarding Administrative Legislation and Rules of the City Council . Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Formal Meeting: Regarding Various Matters. Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City Council approved a request from Mayor Nicholson for a $100,000 appropriation from FREE CASH for 3rd party grant writing. More than $20 million has been awarded with an expenditure of about $75,000.

  The item regarding $45,000 for a recount was taken off the agenda as paperwork was not submitted by candidate Bruce Chester. Councilor Hardern stated, “I’m relieved the taxpayers will not have to shoulder this cost. ..I can understand the frustration that comes from campaigning and running for office for 5 years and not winning. However, it’s on all of us who run for office to be responsible with recounts, especially given the cost to the public. Part of what comes from running for office is being prepared to accept how the people vote.”

  Councilor Tyros stated, “You know, this election was not determined by a handful of votes but by hundreds of votes and I was very disappointed to see some of the commentary in our community about, you know, there being questions around the integrity of this election.” Councilor Tyros later spoke about the cost to the taxpayers when the 13 Open Meeting Law complaints were filed by Paul DeMeo and not one of the complainants followed up with the AG’s office.

  Cost of parking at meters in Gardner will be 50 cents per half hour. According to Mayor Nicholson, enforcement begins in January 2025.

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• Nicholson Interview 11-20-24

  

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead

  A Discussion with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead in Gardner. We discuss various topics including the recent recount issue, various City projects, and the Road Ahead with all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Re the potential recount: Even though Bruce Chester requested an incorrect form, City Clerk Titi Siriphan reached out to the State and then to Bruce Chester to make sure he got the correct form. Clerk’s office was staffed until 5:15pm on day of deadline to give Chester every chance. However, he did not turn in the forms. Interview contains complete explanation from the Mayor.

  Re Paul DeMeo: Interview addresses some of the nonsense perpetrated against the City and some very good people.

  Project Updates: We go over many of the projects as to status, speak about grants, and talk about possible uses for the roughly unspent $8million from the new Elementary School loan and the inherent restrictions. Note that Director Trevor Beauregard is leaving the City in December.

  The Road Ahead – And literally at the end of the interview, Mayor Nicholson was on the road to meet with an investor interested in Gardner. Gardner Magazine will update you if there’s more good news to share down the road.

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• The Clerk

  

  City Clerk staff actually waited until 5:15pm on deadline day to give Bruce Chester every possible opportunity.

  City Clerk Titi Siriphan Unjustly Attacked – Actual Email Shows Effort to Be Fair

  Candidate Bruce Chester came in to the City Clerk’s office for recount forms and was given the usual District-wide forms customarily used when vote tallies are within ½ of one percent. As it turns out in this case, a different form needed to be used which was later made available to Chester. City Clerk’s office was staffed until 5:15pm on date of deadline. Documents were even left at police station with access 24 hours per day. Chester did not submit by deadline, so no recount is taking place. Cost would have been $45,000 to the City due to statutory requirements of how ballots must be handled in a recount.

  So what happened? Paul DeMeo unleashed a nasty attack in an email. SEE IMAGE. Bruce Chester disavowed DeMeo in an email. SEE IMAGE. And of course, here’s the email in which it is very clear Clerk Siriphan made the correct forms easily available to Candidate Chester. SEE IMAGE.

  Note: Bruce Chester is still on Social Media even today complaining about Gardner Magazine’s reporting prior to the election. We stand by our articles as they accurately reflected actual AUDIO of what Chester said and accurately showed actual State documents re various campaign issues.

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• Coleman Legal

  

  Graphic shows screenshot of Go Fund Me which was launched by Olivia Coleman.

  Gardner Facebook Admin Starts Go Fund Me for Alleged Victims of DeMeo and Others

  A Gardner Facebook Admin has launched a go fund me releasing the following statement “A number of people have suggested a gofundme for legal fees, including Jeff Hermanson! So here it is: A fundraiser for a retainer to pursue legal action for individuals who have been the victims of slander, libel and/or defamation by Kimberly Blake, Paul DeMeo and/or Bruce Chester” The Go Fund Me was launched just after 3pm on November 20, 2024. At the time of this article, 5 dollars out of a goal of $15,000 had been raised. CLICK HERE

  Gardner Magazine reached out to Olivia Coleman for further comment and she stated, “It’s open to anyone that has been a victim of their that would like to purse legal action. If someone has been a victim, they can reach out to me and I’ll start a running list. Depending on how many there are, we may look into in a group suit rather than individual…Funds will paid directly to the atty that is selected to handle the case(s).”

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• Parking 50 cents

  

  Cost of Metered Parking to Double in Downtown Gardner

  The parking meters are being installed one at a time and enforcement won’t begin until early 2025. Cost has been 25 cents per half hour for 20 years, but will go up to 50 cents per half hour if the Gardner City Council votes to approve the recommendation of the Public Safety Committee. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Plan is to have both cash and app options to pay for parking. Note that Downtown Gardner does have a number of FREE parking locations available such as in back of City Hall and right across from the Gardner Ale House. The Rear Main Street Project will also add parking and the Mayor is proposing a parking garage at the site of the West Street Parking Lot.

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• Westminster Meeting

  

  

  Special Town Meeting Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Westminster Elementary School at 9 Academy Hill Road, Westminster

  Westminster: Special Town Meeting November 19th

  Registered Voters in the town of Westminster will be attending a Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Westminster Elementary School.

  Town Meeting Warrant pdf, CLICK HERE.

  The first 6 articles are money articles. Article 7 would dissolve the Holmes Park Water District and place the water service under the jurisdiction of the town of Westminster – MA legislature would still to to also approve. Article 8 concerns notification to the town of a change in volume or character of pollutants to be discharged into the sewer system. Article 9 concerns whether the Town will approve Tax Increment Financing in an agreement between Westminster and Home Depot. TIF provides for real estate exemptions. Article 10 concerns TIF Financing between Westminster and Global Packaging. Article 11 asks the town to seek an additional liquor license allocation for Vincent’s Country Store at 109 Main Street – Legislature would need to approve. Article 12 is a Citizen’s Petition would would restrict the total of full liquor licenses in Westminster to 2 (two) until the population of the town exceeds 10,000 per the most recent Federal census. Current population is about 8400. Next Federal Census is in 2030. Growth was 12.3% from 2010 to 2020 but has since slowed to an annual rate of 2.3%.

  Information sheet on T.I.F. (Tax Incremental Financing)

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• Hotline 11-16-24

  

  News from Hotline Radio November 16, 2024

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas gave updates. The Veterans Ceremony was aired in two parts. Listen to the complete program on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  At the beginning of the show, Mayor Nicholson describes his notification from the City Clerk that Bruce Chester was planning to submit papers for a recount, thus prompting him to request $45,000 to cover the cost from the City Council – however, according to the Mayor, Chester did not submit any papers by the 5pm deadline and thus a recount will not be held. Council President Kazinskas spoke of items on the agenda. The other part of the program featured the recent Veterans Day Ceremony.

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• Fill-A-Cruiser

  

  Gardner Police Department to Hold Food Drive Supporting Gardner CAC and Gardner Senior Center

  The Gardner Police Department has announced that it is launching a new event: The First Annual Fill-A-Cruiser Food Drive. Event will be held in front of the Gardner PD on Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 9am to 1pm.

  The Gardner PD wrote: “We are excited to announce that we will be hosting our first annual Fill-A-Cruiser food drive event this year in support of the Gardner CAC and Gardner Senior Center! Help us kick off the holiday season by filling a cruiser with non-perishable food items, hygiene products and necessities for members in our community. Join us in front of the Gardner Police Department at 200 Main St. on Saturday, November 23 from 9:00AM-1:00PM. We are appreciative of the continued support from our community and look forward to seeing you there!

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• Fire Towers

  

  Fire Danger Very Serious in Greater Gardner MA

  The Gardner Fire Department posted a very serious message on November 16, 2024: “Sadly, we are still continuing to respond to people illegally burning in their yards on a daily bases. We thank all the citizens who have called these fires in to us. For people who disregard our warnings, please know that ALL Massachusetts State Fire Towers are up and running daily, and on high alert. Our closest fire tower is on top of Wachusett Mountain and has a clear birds eye view of Gardner, and quickly can spot the smallest amount of smoke. They then immediately call us, give us the location and we respond. We might not see you burning, but the Massachusetts Fire Towers will. Please, do not do any outside burning until this dangerous drought is over, that includes cooking, camp, and ornamental fires.“

  Here is a message from MEMA Director Dawn Brantley regarding the wild fire situation in Massachusetts and the alarming increase in fires. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Recount 2024

  UPDATE 11-16-24: Bruce Chester did not turn in papers by 5pm deadline yesterday. Therefore according to Mayor Michael Nicholson who appeared on WGAW’s Hotline Radio on Saturday November 16th, there will be no recount. Again, papers not turned in. There will be no recount.

  

  Note: According to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, even if a District-wide was requested, the City of Gardner would still have to bear the total local cost. Facebook posts stating otherwise are not correct.

  Recount of Zlotnik-Chester Race in Gardner to cost Taxpayers $45,000

  The Gardner City Council Meeting Agenda and packet for Monday November 18, 2024 was amended to include a request from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson for $45,000 from FREE CASH to cover the costs of a hand recount of all 5 Gardner precincts. Recount is taking place at the request of candidate Bruce Chester who lost the race for State Representative for the 2^nd Worcester District to Jonathan Zlotnik who has held the office for over a decade.

  Mayor Michael Nicholson wrote, “The City has been made aware that Mr. Bruce Chester, who was a candidate for Representative to the General Court for the 2^nd Worcester District in the November 5, 2024 election will be turning in petitions for a recount of the election for each Ward in the City.” Elections Division advised all costs to be born by the City. Mayor’s appropriation request covers the cost of having to recall all of the poll workers to do a hand recount of the ballots cast. View entire agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  Original Unofficial Results from all Gardner Precincts

  

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• Finance 11-14-24

  

  Finance Committee has Honor of Hearing from Assistant Director Evan Cudmore

  All were impressed as Assistant Director of Community Development and Planning Evan Cudmore updated the Gardner MA Finance Committee on various projects and grants. Mayor Nicholson also added some information, but Cudmore was thorough. Cudmore has been with the City about 8 months, but this is his first meeting appearance. See a complete list of Project Updates below. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The Gardner Tax Rate has been certified at $14.36. Auditor John Richard spoke and praised the Assessor. Gardner was the 39th community in the entire State of MA to set its tax rate. Mayor Nicholson spoke about how this will help in planning.

  The Finance Committee is sending some FREE CASH recommendations to the entire City Council include monies to the Stabilization Fund, 10% to roads, 100k towards a 3rd party grant writer, and 95k for IT software and cloud backup. Nicholson said he would wait until about April to utilize additional FREE CASH to be cautious. This is a strategy the City of Gardner usually uses because until Winter is over, for example, the total cost of snow removal is unknown.

  Updates Provided to the Finance Committee by Evan Cudmore on 11-14-24

  Rear Main Street Phase 2 North: The $3.64 million project is under construction right now Rear Main Street Phase 2 South: The $3.5 million housing works grant was recently awarded to the City. Bike trail, nature trail construction is continuing. The layout of the trail and the sub-base material is complete. The crossings are installed, and the contractor is working on finalizing the agreements with New England Power. The pathway should be complete this year, and landscaping is to be complete in the spring. Maki Park ADA Compliance Solutions: The Building Commissioner is reviewing 2 options for ADA compliance submitted by the City’s engineering firm. One option is $30,000, the other is $50,000. Funding may come from some CDBG projects which came in under budget. Potential New Industrial Park: City’s Engineering firm of Hudson O’Neill is currently developing concept plans for a potential build-out of proposed site based on wetlands and topographic data. Once complete, market analysis will be developed, and the location of land is south of Route 140 from Route 101 to Mathew Street. City would have to purchase the land. Currently Gardner has the Gardner Industrial Park, the North Gardner Industrial Park, and the Suffolk Industrial Park. This would be adding a 4th one. 16 Lot Subdivision being considered by Planning Board. See separate article. Public hearing is continued to the next meeting on December 10th. Greenwood Indoor Pool Building Demolition: Contractor has completed the site survey. The lake delineation testing and the hazardous materials testing is complete. Contractor is working on finishing the sketches for the plan and hopes to have that done by the end of the year. And then given the swim season in mind, demolition will be done probably late winter, early spring at most. 205-213 Main Street (Old Rome Building) Demolition across from Police Station: Bids were opened on November 13th. Awaiting Awarding of bid. Target time for demolition is mid to late December. Later, grant funding would be sought to improve the intersection itself. Listen to the meeting for even more information.

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• Public Welfare 11-14-24

  

  Committee Hears Reports from Library, Golf Course, and Cable TV

  The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on November 14, 2024 and heard updates from directors of the following areas: Library, Golf, and Cable. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Outgoing Library Director Stephanie Young spoke for more than 20 minutes regarding the various programs and matters involving the library, noting that participants in programs has increased from hundreds to the thousands in the past year. —- The Golf Course has increased to almost 800 members this year and the finances look good. — Tim Josti of GETV spoke about the various programs being recorded for the City and some upgrades he would like to make both in services and personnel hours. All 3 updates were very positive and deserve a listen.

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• Planning Board 11-14-24

  

  Gardner Planning Board Reviews Proposed new Compass Lane subdivision on Templeton Line

  The Board Viewed plans and heard a presentation from Mr. Fletcher from PrivateOversight, LLC. 16 Duplexes are now proposed for a total of 32 units on a 900 foot cul-de-sac roadway and a new traffic plan was presented to correspond with the number of units. 6.6 acres would be developed and 10.1 acres being left undeveloped.

  Phase 1 consists of temporary sediment basins. Then roadway construction can begin. Permanent basins can then be constructed. And Phase 3 will consist of constructing the various units, 1 at a time. However, following the presentation, a public hearing was held. There were some questions and concerns from the public in attendance. An interesting fact was brought out by one of the Templeton residents who asked questions and the PrivateOversight, LLC representative also confirmed that Templeton had not yet been approached even though the entrance to the project would be through Templeton. Mr. Fletcher advised that the plan was to contact Templeton once the Gardner side of the project was further along. View the complete agenda, CLICK HERE.

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

  Based on concerns, the Gardner Planning Board ordered a 3^rd party site plan review of items such as traffic and storm water. The public hearing was continued to the next meeting.

  This meeting is a great example of showing the complexities involved in this endeavor as many of the plans are shown. For those wishing to see more plan specifics, we recommend viewing the video from youtube, CLICK HERE.

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• School Committee 11-12-24

  

  School Committee Meets – Achievements Recognized

  The Gardner MA School Committee met on November 12, 2024. At the beginning of the meeting, Superintendent Pellegrino recognized Retired Principal Cherie McComb (spelling corrected) and other retired teachers who have supported a program of education for immigrants. McComb spoke about the program and how people are learning English and getting assistance to obtain Driver’s licenses and employment. Doctor Catherine Goguen gave an MCAS update, details achievements and what work is ongoing to better student performance. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Complete Meeting Packet and Agenda, CLICK HERE.

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• The Closet

  

  The Closet – A Work of Fiction Featuring Kamala, Don, Joe, and Werner.

  Just a little bit of fun in a commentary for WGAW. While they might sound like the real thing, the characters are fictional. Launch on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Packing boxes. What could go wrong?

  WGAW Hotline Radio referenced in this skit airs every Saturday from noon to 2pm on WGAW. On AM 1340, 98.1FM, and streaming worldwide. Listen for great interviews with host Steve Wendell.

  There are 13 Episodes of Joe and Don Fictional Theater, CLICK HERE for the page.

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• Festival Trees 2024

  

  Gardner MA Museum Festival of Trees Set to Begin

  Gardner Museum 2024 Festival of Trees runs from November 13^th through December 7^th.

  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. Due to the Uptown Rotary Project, the parking spaces in front of the building are more visible . There is also a small parking lot to the rear of the building with a handicapped entrance.

  The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for the Gardner Museum. Win a fabulous tree by purchasing raffle tickets. Drawing starts December 7^th at 3pm.  The cost for 1 sheet of tickets is $5 which includes admission (you can buy more tickets if desired). If you decide to just look at the displays, the museum’s regular admission of $3 applies.

  In addition to the regular raffle tickets to win one of the displayed trees & other items, there is a special raffle for a beautiful, circa 100-year-old wooden journeyman’s chest (3 tickets for $10). Aside from looking at the Christmas Wonderland, the museum’s fall – winter photography is still on display in the first floor’s glass cases. Tickets for the special raffle for one of Jeff Sargent’s amazing framed photographs are 10$ for 2 tickets or $12 for 3 tickets. The drawing will be on December 12, 2024.

  Photo Gallery from 2023, click here.

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• Veterans Ceremony 2024

  

  Veterans Honored with Ceremony in Gardner MA

  Veterans were honored in prayer, in words, and in music at the Veterans Day Exercises which took place in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall on Veterans Day, November 11, 2024. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Original Music

  

  Original Music page, CLICK HERE. including “Veterans of Service”

  Gardner Magazine Presents – Original Music

  Here’s the page, CLICK HERE. “Who Started Goofy with a Huge Screw Loose”, the “Rockin’ Gardner City Council”, “Election Day”, “Chair City of Heart”, “To Grow A Valentine”, “WGAW, One Station on the Dial”, “Gardner, City of Maximum Potential”, “Everyone Loves the Velvet Goose”, “Hotline Radio Steals the Show”, “Gardner Magazine Know Where You’re Coming From”, ” Gardner Magazine Blues”, “Heywood, Mission of Compassion”, “Zone it in or Zone it Out”, “Greatest Board of Assessors”, “Liver Awareness Month” and introducing “Veterans of Service” in time for Veterans Day.

  Chair City Christmas has a separate page, CLICK HERE.

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• Wooden Flags

  

  Patriotism and Love for Veterans Is Alive at Gardner High School

  Veterans protect our country from adversaries who would harm us and who would disrupt the lives of our youngest to our oldest. Students in a class at Gardner High took the time to salute our nation’s heroes by making unique wooden flags.

  GHS posted, “Students in our Advanced Woodworking class made these beautiful wooden flags and presented them today to Cory Hasselmann, the Director of Veterans Services. It was a great project for our students and a nice way to thank our local veterans. Community at its best.”

  Happy Veterans Day

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• Rockin’ Council

  

  “Rock Stars” of Gardner City Council Inspire Rock Song

  They are the Gardner 11, a mix of men and women from different backgrounds who represent the citizens of Gardner Massachusetts. They are the “Rock Stars” of the Gardner City Council, the money musicians of the Chair City, often praised for their intellect, fiscal responsibility, and public awareness. Listen to a rock song singing their praises on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Downtown 11-9-24

  

  The Classy Look of the “M” Building in Downtown Gardner.

  The building is home to Empire Management, Gardner Coins and Cards, and Garden Pizza. The outside look of the building was enhanced earlier this year, and now the front facing and additional side facing signs complete the look. Empire Management also purchased the Bank of America Building. New tenants including a potential new restaurant are expected there in the coming months.

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• Progress 11-8-24

  

  Visual Rear Main Street Update

  The Rear Main Street Project has many months to go before completion. Here’s a visual progress report from November 8, 2024.

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• Hotline 11-9-24

  

  WGAW has “Hot” Hotline Radio Show on Saturday November 9, 2024

  Hot Announcements with Mayor Michael Nicholson on Gardner CAC Lease, RFP’s on Community Center Leases, Waiting on GES Audit and $8 million remaining from School loan, and Veterans Day. Hot Warnings about Fire from EMD Paul Topolski and Hot News about the Gardner PD Kitchen. Scott Huntoon on the Hot Excitement about the Popular Festival of Trees at the Gardner Museum. ABC on Hot Election Results and Hot Stock Market. Hot Interview and Hot Topics with Congressional Candidate Cornelius Shea. Hot ABC Election Analysis. Hot AI Song Report and original Chair City Christmas Tunes with Werner Poegel.

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

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• Roof 11-9-24

  

  Gardner Fire Department Roof Project Well Underway

  A gust of wind damaged the roof. A camera captured that gust. Insurance covered the repair. The roof is under repair at the Gardner Fire Department Headquarters.

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• Waterford Lease Signed

  

  Waterford Community Center Lease Signed with Gardner CAC

  On November 8 2024, Gardner Mayor Nicholson and Julie Meehan, CAC Director signed a lease for use of a portion of the Waterford Community Center. It is a grant lease with no monthly payment due in consideration for what the Gardner Community Action Committee provides in services to the community. The Grant Lease was authorized recently by a vote of the Gardner City Council. Until actually occupying Waterford, the CAC will continue providing services out of its Pleasant Street location. Listen to the lease signing ceremony and various statements on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The City of Gardner is expected to announce additional tenants in the coming months. Earlier in the year, Governor Healey signed a bill passed unanimously by the Legislature authorizing the site for general municipal use. It was previously called the Waterford Street School. According to previous statements of Mayor Michael Nicholson, while Waterford Community Center is the current official name, the final name has yet to be decided.

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• Update 11-8-24

  

  MORE DETAILS: Farmers Market at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Saturday November 23, 2024 10am to 1pm

  Erica Bosse advises that about 30 vendors will have more than 40 tables. Jordans Turkey Farm and Wildwood Farm both have pre order Turkey options for pick up at the market and buying limited amount available at the market. Will have produce and veggies including Rock Harvest Farm, My County Mushrooms, Guys Bees, Plant Matter Microgreens, and Growing Places and more. Will have HIP and SNAP vendors there. Also Brew Biscuits, Plainview Alpaca Farm, and lotions and salves. Also a wonderful baker and food line up with Deercreek Bagels, Victoria Coffee, and lots more including pies. The Gardner CAC will be doing a drive. There will be Live Music. It’s a mix of returning vendors and new vendors from our North central MA region.

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson With a weekly update and FIRE ADVISORY

  Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  This Weekend: Annual Veterans Day ceremony Monday, November 11th at 11 a.m. in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. The Mayor stated, “I highly suggest you get there around 10:45, 10:30, just to make sure that you’re in your place because once 11 o’clock hits, that’s when people start marching in.:”

  Events: On November 13th, the ever-popular Festival of Trees is coming back to the City of Gardner over at the Garden Museum for its 19th year in a row. —- Turkey raffle to benefit the Gardner CAC on November 15th at 7 p.m. at the Acadian Social Club. The mayor stated, “The CAC is one of our strongest partner organizations that we have here in the city. —- The Gardner 2024 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day will be on November 16th from 9 a.m. to noon at the Gardner Transfer Station —- Yard waste will be picked up again this month in the week of November 19th to 22nd, again on your normal trash day. — Special Thanksgiving edition of the Gardner Farmers Market in Perry Auditorium is Saturday, November 23rd from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. —- Annual tree lighting ceremony and holiday stroll December 1st from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., starting at Gardner City Hall, going up Main Street and Central Street over to Monument Park. FREE horse-run carriage rides again this year. Memorial Lights forms available at City Hall, Velvet Goose, and John’s Sport Shop.

  Advisory: Effective immediately due to extreme weather conditions, any and all types of outdoor open fires are prohibited in the city of Gardner. All forms of open flame, including for the purposes of cooking, recreational, or ornamental fires are banned until further notice. This includes fires associated with fire pits, chimneys, and outdoor fireplaces. Also the burning of brush and other yard debris is prohibited at this time. All residents are also asked to use extreme caution when disposing of smoking materials, ensure that they are fully extinguished prior to disposing of them, and only use non-combustible containers to dispose of those smoking materials.

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• Election Editorial

  

  Actual guidance on recounts from the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s office, CLICK HERE for the 16 page guide. As the margin was about 4 percent. it appears this election would not be eligible for a recount as difference must be not more than 1/2 percent.

  

  Editorial: Election Results Should be no Surprise and Should Teach Lessons

  Election Day was this week. Some were surprised by the results. They shouldn’t have been. On the National level, the result reflected that the majority of America was not happy with the current administration in Washington because of various problems including border policy , inflation, crime, and foreign policy. Under normal circumstances if Donald Trump did not have some high negatives because of his sometimes offensive approach, the win could have been larger, more like when Ronald Reagan won 49 states. For example, Trump almost won the state of New Jersey, turning a double digit Biden lead in 2020 into a just a 5 point Harris lead in 2024. Trump did win the National popular vote, mainly because of his strategy of asking for votes everywhere. I’m hoping he’ll take this second chance and do well with it.

  On the local level: Voters were faced with the choice of long-time State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik who has a perfect voting attendance record and a long list of achievements including specific help for veterans, but failed to adequately campaign, AND, Bruce Chester, a man who has run 3 times for the job, but has faced rebuke because of his alleged unethical handling of campaign finances and obvious lack of knowledge.

  On Jonathan Zlotnik

  A classic case of a good candidate not campaigning or taking the time to update Social Media to document his achievements. Had he done that, his vote tally would have been higher. Representative Zlotnik did do interviews with Gardner Magazine and WGAW and chronicled his achievements. A Rogue Gardner Facebook Group published many false items about Zlotnik which continued with simply made up falsities after Zlotnik won.

  Zlotnik needs to campaign in his next election and post more items documenting his work. He almost lost because he didn’t do that. And it should be easy as he has a long list of successes and a history of benefiting his district. For example, Zlotnik has worked with the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center and has helped get more housing for veterans. Zlotnik helped get much needed funding for Heywood Hospital and numerous grants for Gardner and area communities. The irony is Zlotnik often works his tail off on behalf of the public rather than wasting time on Social Media. Well, maybe take 5 minutes each day. Just a thought.

  On Bruce Chester

  A classic case of a deeply flawed candidate who took the time to campaign and used Social Media to a certain extent. Despite running for the office 3 times, Chester could not answer very simple questions about legislation during a WGAW interview. Voters reached out to us both anonymously and by name prior to the election. We investigated and Gardner Magazine prepared a complete report using Bruce Chester’s own words to reveal very real concerns and we also published State documents revealing the ethics issues.

  While Chester claims to teach ethics, according to the state of MA, Chester exudes the exact opposite given his ongoing scrutiny and multiple troubling audits by the Office of Campaign Finance. In my opinion, Bruce Chester was by far the weaker candidate. And now, rather than gracefully accepting his loss by about 4 points, some of his more radical supporters are claiming Gardner election fraud, thus attacking the character of the dozens of good people who make elections work in the Chair City. As recounts very rarely change the vote total dramatically, it simply seems like the actions of a sore loser.

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• Fire 11-7-24

  

  Extreme Fire Hazard Persists in Greater Gardner Area

  Because of dry conditions, all outdoor fires are dangerous right now. In most area communities, any outdoor burning is prohibited. If you have any questions, please contact your local Fire Department.

  Drought Map of Massachusetts on 11-7-24

  

  Gardner and surrounding communities are shown to be in moderate drought while Worcester is shown to be in extreme drought.

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• Veterans Day 2024

  

  Veterans Day is Monday November 11, 2024. Area communities have events starting as early as Thursday, November 7th.

  

  Veterans Day 2024 is Monday November 11^th

  It is a day we honor men and women who have served in the United States military and thank them for preserving the freedoms we all enjoy. City and town offices are closed on Veterans Day.

  Gardner: Veterans Day Exercises will be held at 11am in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. The Gardner Elks Lodge is having a Veterans Turkey Raffle Friday November 8^th at 7pm with proceeds benefitting our veterans. Doors open at 6pm, raffle starts at 7pm. In addition, the Gardner Elks will host a Veterans Ceremony Sunday, November 10^th at 10am honoring “our veterans past and present.”

  Winchendon: Winchendon American Legion Ceremony at 11am honors veterans in the community. Coming up on December 13, 2024 at 9am the Winchendon Wreath Fund will lay wreaths on the graves of fallen heroes at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

  Hubbardston: Purple Heart Ceremony on Saturday November 9^th at noon on the Hubbardston common. From the town of Hubbardston website “The Town of Hubbardston is proud to be designated as a Purple Heart Town, honoring the courage and sacrifice of our service members who were wounded or lost in combat. Join us in recognizing the bravery of Hubbardston residents who have been awarded the Purple Heart.”

  Westminster: Veterans and Scouts meet at the VFW Veterans Monument just prior to 11am to hold a period of reflection and thanks to all Veterans who have served and are still serving.

  Ashburnham: Prior to Veterans Day on Thursday, November 7^th, the Stevens Memorial Library hosts a discussion about the significance of national service from 6:30 to 7:30pm. From the library website, “Please join us for a discussion of the importance and impact of national service. A panel of Ashburnham veterans will talk about their experiences in uniform and how their service shaped their lives. The panel will be hosted by Brigadier General (retired) Paul “Greg” Smith, who will also offer readings from his recently published book, “Confessions of a Weekend Warrior: 35 Years in the National Guard.” Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing (A portion of the proceeds will benefit Montachusett Veterans’ Outreach, Inc.)”

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• Trump Elected

  

  Trump Political Comeback Complete – Elected 47th President of the United States

  At around 2am on November 6, 2024 Donald J. Trump became President-Elect of the United States. Only one President before him, Grover Cleveland, has won the White House in a non-consecutive term. At 78 years old, Trump will be the oldest U.S. President when he leaves office, but his stamina leading up to Election Day was greater than many men much younger, often having multiple campaign rallies in the same day. In his victory speech, he said he has done his last rally, but goes on now to do something more important.

  The President-elect will have an easier time getting his cabinet choices confirmed as the United States Senate will have a Republican majority. As of 2am, the question of whether the House will have a GOP majority had yet to be decided. Listen to the Trump Victory Speech on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Election Results 2024

  

  Final Electoral Map 2024

  

  
  Gardner Magazine Reports the following as of 11:29am 11-12-24

  Trump Elected 47th President

  Results will be periodically updated. Unofficial Results from all precincts in Gardner, CLICK HERE.

  Electoral Votes for President: Trump 312, Harris 226 ———————————————– Vote for State Senator: Durant 55%, Dibb 45% Vote for U.S. Senator: Warren Won, Keaton Lost Vote for U.S. Congress: McGovern 71%, Shea 29% Vote for U.S. Congress: Trahan unopposed

  Vote for State Representative: Zlotnik: 10,682, Chester: 9798. By community – Templeton Zlotnik 2094, Chester 2327 Winchendon Zlotnik 1643, Chester 1774 Ashburnham Zlotnik 2002, Chester 1608 Gardner 4943, Chester 4089

  U.S. Senate: Democratic 47, Republican 53 U.S. House: Democratic 209, Republican 219, 218 is needed for a majority. GOP has a majority, there are 10 more races to be called.

  Ballot Questions: 1. Authority to Audit Legislature: Yes 72%, No 28% 2. Eliminate MCAS Requirement: Yes 59%, No 41% 3. Unionization Transportation: Yes 54%, No 46% 4. Legalization Psychedelics: Yes 43%, No 57% 5. Minimum Wage Tipped Workers: Yes 37%, No 63%

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• Council 11-4-24

  

  Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE.

  Gardner City Council Meets on Monday Before Election

  Mayor Michael Nicholson gave a presentation relating to adopting a factor for real estate and personal property taxation. The slides from his presentation are contained in the complete 394 page agenda and packet. To make it easier for the public, the City Council Agenda is laid out like a table of contents. For example, the Mayor’s letter and presentation begins on page 11. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The City Council once again set the residential tax rate factor at 1 which means all types of property in the City are once again taxed at the same rate.

  City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas submitted a proposal relative to the rules of the City Council.

  At the end of the meeting Councilor Brooks explained the voting procedures at polling places in Gardner. Councilor Mack reminded residents that there is an Open Fire Ban in place because of dry conditions.

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• Election Song

  

  
  Gardner Magazine Releases original song “Election Day”

  Original Lyrics by Werner Poegel, music and vocals via AI. CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Magazine will provide Election Day results from Federal, State, and local races when available.

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• Fire Danger

  

  All Open Fires BANNED in Gardner due to Extreme Weather Conditions

  In a Press Release of November 4, 2024, Gardner Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy stated that effective immediately “any and all types of outdoor open fires are prohibited in the City of Gardner. All forms of open flames, including for the purposes of cooking, recreational, or ornamental fires are banned until further notice. This includes fires associated with fire pits, chimineas (sic), and outdoor fireplaces. Also the burning of brush and other yard debris is prohibited at this time.”

  Lagoy explains the reason is “due to the ongoing lack of rain in the region resulting in drought conditions.”

  COMPLETE PRESS RELEASE CLICK HERE.

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• Help Animals

  

  
  A way to feel BETTER or spread your JOY after the Election

  
  No matter how you feel after November 5^th, there is a great way you can make yourself feel better or spread your joy. Help out the furry friends with a donation to the Gardner Animal Shelter located at 899 West Broadway in Gardner.

  Donations can be in the form of wet and dry cat or dog food, pet toys, used or new towels, Dawn dish detergent, plus dog and cat treats. Sheets and pillows can’t be accepted. Open food or treats can’t be accepted. For more information including contact info and pet adoption info, CLICK HERE

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• Cormier Honored

  

  Gardner PD Sergeant Honored for Leadership Training

  Gardner Police Sergeant Roger Cormier completed two weeks of leadership training in October at Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island. The course entitled “First Line Supervisor” is part of Roger Williams’ Justice System and Training Research Institute.

  According to the Gardner PD, “The two-week course covered topics of Leadership Principles, Interpersonal Communication, Discipline, Conflict Management, Problem Solving, Community Engagement and Liability. Congratulations Sgt. Cormier!“

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• Fire 11-3-24

  

  

  Gardner Fire Department Extinguishes Car Fire on Mill Street

  No injuries were reported in the car fire which prompted a response by Group 4 of the Gardner Fire Department on the evening of November 3, 2024. The fire was promptly extinguished.

  Check Alarms

  In a previous post, the Gardner Fire Department reminded all to check alarms at the same time of year that clocks are set back. Be sure to check alarm manufacturing dates, replace expired alarms, and replace alkaline batteries.

  Alarms not requiring you to change batteries are an increasingly popular option with Smoke Alarms going for just over 20 dollars and Smoke – Carbon Monoxide detectors at well under 50 dollars. Something easy to buy at Walmart, Amazon, Home Depot and other retailers.

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• Chester Questions

  

  Note from Publisher: With most stories we like to publish original source material whenever we can such as Press Releases, Agendas/Packets, and AUDIO. With a sensitive subject such as this, we included a considerable amount of material in an effort to demonstrate thoroughness and to provide our readers with first-hand information.

  To look up the Chester campaign yourself, here is the link, CLICK HERE. It is also a valuable tool for looking up information on any candidate running for office in Massachusetts.

  Additional Questions Emerge Regarding Candidate Bruce Chester

  In a previous Gardner Magazine report, CLICK HERE, we profiled Bruce Chester taking the unusual step of researching and presenting his own words. Part of that report covered the scrutiny Chester has been under after needing to reimburse his Committee in staggered payments as ordered by the State Office of Campaign and Political Finance. See previous article, CLICK HERE. Since our last article, we have received information from both anonymous and known sources. This article only covers what we could substantiate.

  Treasurer Signature Situation

  Former Chester Campaign Treasurer Scott M. Graves sent a letter to the OCPF stating he ceased being treasurer in 2022. According to his letter, this was the 2nd time informing them of this change. CLICK FOR IMAGE. However, a report with Scott M. Graves signature was sent to the OCPF in 2023, months after it was possible if in fact the Scott M. Graves assertion is accurate. CLICK FOR IMAGE. SEE REPORT. Compare that signature with a previous report when he was treasurer, CLICK FOR IMAGE. SEE REPORT.

  Various Audits and Issues

  Chester’s campaign has been audited several times. According to the OCPF, Chester used campaign funds for personal use and was obligated to reimburse the campaign committee. The OCPF has on numerous occasions informed the Chester campaign of problems. AUDIT: Expenses September 2024, CLICK HERE — Letter revealing Audit opened new audit —-Letter re lack of response to request by OCPF, CLICK HERE. Chester Campaign Reimbursements, CLICK HERE. — List of new AUDIT issues, CLICK HERE

  Campaign Contributions and Expenditures

  Bruce Chester contributions COMPLETE REPORT and Bruce Chester expenditures COMPLETE REPORT. Jonathan Zlotnik contributions COMPLETE REPORT and Jonathan Zlotnik expenditures COMPLETE REPORT.

  Claims of Various Chester Occupations

  Bruce Chester claims to be any of a number of occupations according to a pdf of his his website, CLICK HERE. His website claims “Actor, Author, Comedian, Host, Motivational Speaker, Educator, Veteran, Entrepreneur and all around good mensch” One of his claims is that he has been performing standup comedy in the New England area for almost 20 years. This was news to us as it did not show up in any of our earlier research. A YouTube search revealed a short appearance on a Leominster Cable Access Show from 11 years ago in which he was introduced as a comedian but did not perform comedy. Here’s a link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJrwWZL70eE

  False and Inaccurate Posts re Jonathan Zlotnik

  Zlotnik has been the subject of false and/or inaccurate attacks on a Rogue Gardner Facebook Group suggesting in some posts that he is in favor of taxes. In just one counter example, Jonathan Zlotnik is known to be spearheading an effort to eliminate the inventory tax for businesses in an effort to lower taxes. Under current law, it is hard for a company to take advantage of a lower price on a quantity of raw product needed in manufacturing because the excess inventory would be subject to tax. The Zlotnik bill would help in 2 ways. 1. Eliminate a tax Zlotnik feels is unfair. 2. Reduce the manufacturing cost for businessses. We refer you to our recent interview for more information on Zlotnik’s actual record, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 11-2-24

  

  WGAW Hotline Pre-Election Show

  ELECTION COVERAGE: Host Steve Wendell reminded the audience that WGAW Election Night Coverage with ABC News and correspondents throughout the country begins at 7pm on November 5^th. On AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streaming LIVE HERE. Listen to the 11-2-24 Hotline Show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on Water and the Water Main, various projects in the City, Memorial Christmas Lights — Highlights Rear Main Street and Water Main News Conference, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas explains upcoming items, Werner Poegel Commentary on Election with detail on Electoral College history over past 40 years. Congressional Candidate Cornelius Shea is interviewed in detail by Steve Wendell.

  Commentary by Werner Poegel has an Electoral College Prediction. This is what it looks like.

  CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

  You can view all the polls and make your own map at Real Clear Politics. CLICK HERE.

  

  This is the Election Commentary by Publisher Werner Poegel contained in the WGAW Hotline Show. Detailed Analysis of Red, Blue, and States within 5 points, and a history of the past 40 years. CLICK PLAY.

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• Safety 11-1-24

  

  Overnight Parking of RV’s and Campers Addressed by Proposed Ordinance

  The Gardner Public Safety Committee met on Friday, November 1, 2024 to consider a “Mobile Homes and Trailers” ordinance which according to Mayor Nicholson in a letter to the entire City Council “addresses the recent concerns regarding the increase in overnight parking of RV’s and campers in the City in areas other than the houses of those who own these vehicles.” The committee recommended approval by the City Council.

  In the language of the ordinance it states, “The intent of this ordinance is to prevent the obstruction of public streets and ensure that public ways remain accessible for public use.” The “ordinance seeks to regulate the use of campers and recreational vehicles on public streets to prevent long-term habitation in such vehicles and maintain the cleanliness, safety, and accessibility of public spaces.”

  Gardner Police Chief Eric McAvene had sent a letter to Mayor Nicholson on October 16, 2024 expressing concerns about campers and RV’s. The complete text is in the agenda and packet for this meeting, CLICK HERE. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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