Gardner Magazine has served Gardner Massachusetts and 18 surrounding communities since 2000
GARDNER WEATHERNews and Interesting Information from Around Greater Gardner and Beyond
Around Greater Gardner MA
- Transformer Shortage
Listen to the Transformer Special Report on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The “Shocking” Story of the Transformer Shortage in Greater Gardner MA and the United States
Publisher Werner Poegel speaks to our AI, Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers about various reports on this issue. Listen to the report on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Key Impacts of the Transformer Shortage Completed homes sit empty as builders wait for distribution transformers. Delays connection of wind and solar farms to the grid. Delays grid expansion and impacts grid reliability. Negatively impacts national security due to reliance on overseas suppliers. Grid resilience hinges on securing a consistent, secure, and reliable supply chain. There are concerns that a coordinated assault on the American grid would not only affect civilians but would also critically harm essential military installations. The cascading effects could jeopardize homeland defense missions, posing a grave threat to national security.
- Bombaci 3-18-24
Progress in Downtown Gardner – Interview with Jon Bombaci on March 18, 2024
We had the honor of speaking with Jon Bombaci of Candor Realty on March 18, 2024. The reason was some big news happening in the Bull Nose Building at 25 Main Street, the arrival this summer or fall of a brand new Coffee Shop, Restaurant, and Bakery. It will be the third location for Brilla who currently operate in Holden and Northborough. The spot will be about 3500 – 4000 square feet upon completion is planned to be by October or sooner. Listen to the complete interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Bombaci stated, “They’re a great, great established coffee shop, but they’re going to be launching a full-scale restaurant in the building, complete with a whole bunch of other things that they’re experimenting with down in their Holden location. So we’re excited…. so I think they’re going to go from breakfast all the way through dinner. They’re planning to serve alcohol. They’re planning to kind of be open for whatever it is you want, and having a changing menu from breakfast, lunch, to dinner. They’re already experimenting with this in Holden, and they found some success at it, and so we’re kind of looking forward to helping them launch full service, three meals a day type of a space.”
Other plans for the 25 Main Street building include setting aside 800 square feet for Candor Realty offices. The second and third floor are going to be apartments with a total of 14 units of mostly two bedroom units. Press Release from Candor Realty regarding Brilla.
The Garbose Building
Bombaci spoke about progress on the building. “ We’re working on a couple of leases, but should have announcement over a business moving into what is 8 Parker. That will kind of complete the ground floor. Upstairs, the framing is going on, but we’re kind of at a little bit of a stop where the buildings require a tremendous amount of electricity, which makes sense. And so the holdup at the moment is we’re working with National Grid on sourcing power.” The issue is that with using more electricity to heat and cool, National Grid needs to provide a new transformer. There’s actually a shortage of transformers nationwide which is holding up building. Aside from rough framing and inspections, they will wait “until we can get a firm timeline from National Grid on when we’ll be able to energize the building.” We found an excellent article from Builder on this Nationwide issue, CLICK HERE. Apparently, the shortage of transformers has even slowed down the completion of single family homes.
Other Buildings
82-84 Main Street, a vacant commercial building. “There’s two spaces there that we’re working on filling, and then there’s a basement with a walkout to the back, which is kind of cool.” 88 Main Street is where they have their current offices. Work was wrapped up in 2023 at 104 Parker Street where the Buffer Zone hair salon is.
Real Estate Forecast
Jon Bombaci was very honest in that it is hard to predict the direction of the Real Estate market, but “The real estate market in 2024 is ramping up…There’s a lot of people out looking at houses. The buyer demand is there. Rates haven’t come down yet. So that’s kind of kept people in check a little bit.”
Mission of the Company
Jon Bombaci spoke about his company: “Historically, what our focus is value-add multifamily. We like buying two to 50-unit type buildings, fixing some operational problems, increasing the building, make them safer, update them, make them more comfortable for everybody, and then either pass them off to our investors or refinance them and do those types of things. We have a full service team where we do in-house construction, we do in-house property management, and we’re getting to the point that we’re offering those services to other people. So we’ve historically only helped our clients, but now we’re kind of getting to the point that we can help people we don’t know. And so part of our goal is, you know, our mission is to help people reach financial independence to real estate.” Candor Realty website, CLICK HERE.
- Cyber Secure
Under Bob O’Keefe’s IT Leadership, Gardner, MA is setting another Gold Standard for Excellence, this time in how it handles Cyber Security and attempts to be ahead of the curve and ahead of the threats.
Publisher’s Note; With threats from hackers within the United States and concerns about possible cyber attacks from other countries such as China or Russia, being proactive now saves money later.
Gardner’s IT Director O’Keefe is Proactive Cyber Protector
Gardner Magazine recently visited Gardner MA IT Director Bob O’Keefe at Gardner City Hall. O’Keefe didn’t have much time to talk because they were in the middle of doing proactive security updates on City-owned computers. In the few short minutes we were there, another 4 machines were patched. O’Keefe explained that he occasionally gets calls from other communities regarding their security needs. And as Gardner is the model for doing it right (our words, not his) he is able to steer them in the right direction. O’Keefe’s goal when operating system updates come out is to update machines as soon as possible. This has kept the City’s data safe. We were amazed at how O’Keefe was able to tell just how many machines had already been secured. While other communities were just getting started, Gardner was already 85% done.
On Monday, March 18, 2024, there is a request going before the City Council for just over $77k for a cloud storage appliance and about 3 years of support, as well as a few other related Cyber Security items. The equipment features 36 terrabytes of storage and can handle 10 gigabytes of bandwidth. The firm O’Keefe proposes using just built a new 10 million dollar facility in the last year. WCA Solutions was started in 1979 and employs 140 computer professionals at its location in Southwick, MA. The provider states it was rated recently by VarBusiness magazine as being a high level engineering firm in the largest 1% of all Solution Providers in North America. In the past, the Gardner City Council has approved these requests expeditiously. Bob O’Keefe has an office in Gardner City Hall and in the past year saw the City get a $200,000 fiber grant which allows for greater connectivity and security among City Buildings and Schools.
- Fictional 7
Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater Episode 7 Shopping Shenanigans – Joe and Don Grocery Shopping
Joe and Don are back with a visit to the grocery store to get food for a meal with the ladies. As usual, they trade barbs back and forth. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
In a world that often feels divided, Joe and Don serve as a reminder that unity and enjoyment can be found in the most unexpected places. Their story is a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of cherishing the moments of connection that bring us closer together. If Joe and Don can get along, so can the rest of us.
This was a work of fiction presented by Gardner Magazine. Episodes 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 are also available on Fictional Fun page, CLICK HERE.
- Clearing Record
Listen to the explanation Council President Kazinskas gave on WGAW Hotline Radio on Saturday, March 16, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
WGAW Hotline Radio is heard every Saturday from 12:10 to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and live streamed to anywhere in the world. CLICK HERE for the 24/7 live stream.
Council President Kazinskas Clears Up Record – Marijuana Article Passed After All
In an interview heard on WGAW Hotline Radio on Saturday, March 16, 2024, Gardner MA City Council President Kazinskas announced she was correcting an error – Marijuana Quota Article only needed simple majority to pass for first printing, not 2/3 of Council as previously stated, so she’s clearing up the record and the item passed. At the previous City Council Meeting of March 4, 2024, she had announced that 8 votes out of 11 were required and that the measure did not pass because it received only 7 votes. The item will be on the agenda for 2nd Printing on Monday March 18th. Kazinskas says that will need 8 votes to be finalized. See complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.
The Council President stated, “And then we also have one regarding the quota of marijuana establishments in the city. And I do want to take the time now to clear something up on that. There’s a process for these type of ordinance amendments and there is an initial printing. and then there is a second and final printing that these amendments have to go through. And at our previous meeting, I had announced for both of these that there’s a two-thirds vote that is required for them. And so the motion that was taken on both of these amendments was to go to first printing. And the sports betting ordinance amendment had received more than two-thirds vote so that passed the first printing. And then the marijuana establishment quota ordinance amendment had received seven votes, eight votes of the two-thirds vote. So I had announced that it did not go to first printing because it didn’t receive the two-thirds vote that’s required. “
“Well directly after the meeting, I’m speaking with the clerk, and we did go back and look at it where for initial printing, there actually no vote is required by the general laws of the commonwealth. And in Gardner, we require a vote for an initial printing, which is first printing. But it actually is only a majority vote for six votes. And in the case of that particular item, it would have passed because it received seven votes. So what’s important is that people may not be expecting this item to be on our agenda again at the next meeting because I had announced that it needed a two-thirds vote for that initial printing or first printing. But that’s actually incorrect. It actually doesn’t require a vote at all. But in Gardner, because our rules are a little bit more stringent, then that rule gets followed and it really only requires a majority vote, which is six votes. So I will be clearing that up at the meeting on Monday. I wanted to mention it because these have been on our agenda for a very long time. They’re important items. This is a zoning ordinance amendment, which has a state process that it follows. This is the very last kind of stage of it. And so, again, it’s important to people. We don’t do them very often … We haven’t had them in front of us very often. So that is the process. And I did notify the council about that. I will be clearing it up at the next meeting. And the second and final printing vote that will be taken on both of these items, that requires a two-thirds vote, and that is by state statute, which the city also has as well. So those final printings, which would pass them, require eight votes. So we’ll see what happens on Monday’s meeting, but I did want to take some time to acknowledge that.”
- Brilla Coffee
Construction is expected to begin shortly and approvals from the City have been obtained.
Mayor Nicholson stated he has worked directly with Mr. and Mrs. Vallejos for several years to bring them to Gardner, “When I was first sworn in as Mayor in July of 2020, I invited Alexis and Osiris to attend the ceremony and spoke when them about looking at downtown for a new storefront…”
Brilla Coffee to open Coffee Shop and Bakery at 25 Main Street in Gardner MA
In a Press Release sent out on Saturday, March 16, 2024, Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated, “They have a really strong business model and a great product, and I’m excited to welcome them here to the Chair City.” View Press Release, CLICK HERE.
Brilla Coffee currently has locations in Holden and Northborough, Massachusetts. Owners Alexis and Osiris Vallejos say “We are third generation farmers from Nicaragua, Coffee Roasters, and professional baristas which allows us to know and control our Coffee quality very well from the Farm to your Cup.”
Planned offerings include a full menu ranging from breakfast to dinner with meals and sandwiches and “more unique and healthy options such as granola bowls.” Pastries and desserts will be baked in-house at the new 25 Main Street, Gardner location.
- Update 3-15-24
Mayor Nicholson spoke of various City events and also had a big announcement: The City has been awarded a $920,000 grant by the Federal government to replace the James Street pump station. “that gets the water from the storage tanks on top of James Street and Reservoir Hill out into the north section of the City.” Last year, the City was awarded a $1 million grant to replace the City’s main water transmission line.
Publisher’s note: The plural of flyer is either “fliers” or “flyers”
With Event Fliers on Display and Sporting St. Patrick’s Day Attire, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
In his March 15, 2024 Update, Mayor Nicholson spoke of various events, provided some reminders, updates, and announcements. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
The Fliers: AED Foundation- website – First Annual Everyone Wins Tournament Taking Place on March 23rd at Golf RX, 109 Main Street. $75 per person or $300 per team FLYER, CLICK HERE Purple Paws – 2nd Annual Event takes place on Saturday April 27th from 9:30am to noon at Pulaski Park – FLYER, CLICK HERE. Health and Wellness Fair– April 17th 5pm to 7pm at Gardner City Hall Perry Auditorium. FLYER, CLICK HERE. FREE MART transportation available at City Hall is a bus stop.
Reminders: Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony March 29th at 10am in front of Gardner City Hall —Keep America Beautiful Cleanup taking place on Saturday, May 4th. More Info —- During the first week of April, April 2nd through the 5th, the annual yard waste collection cycle starts. —- Pick up your dog waste, Mayor’s been getting calls about you. —- Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday July 13, 2024 from noon to 7pm. ARTICLE CLICK HERE —- VIPS Program is accepting applications – Gardner residents can work hours at City Hall and get a discount on property taxes. More info from city of Gardner, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Municipal Golf Course has its artificial grass driving range open. The Golf Course was discussed at a recent Public Welfare Committee Meeting, CLICK HERE.
For previous updates, please visit the Mayor’s Update AUDIO page. We list every update from 2022, 2023, and 2024 with a link to the individual article and the ability to play any update you choose. For the page, CLICK HERE.
- Safety 3-15-24
Public Safety Update on Police – Fire- Traffic – Building – Health in Gardner MA
The Committee met with various individuals of the following departments. Note that the recording started with Chief McAvene already in progress, so our AUDIO starts similarly. Access on any device. CLICK PLAY
Councilors Dana Heath, Karen Hardern, and Craig Cormier heard from various department heads.
Police Department – Police Chief Eric McAvene —- Building Department – Building Commissioner Tom Zuppa —- Public Health – Health Director Micah Blondeau —- Fire Department – Fire Chief Greg Lagoy —- Traffic Commission – Deputy Police Chief Nicholas Maroni
From Police Chief McAvene – The chief reported that the Police headquarters building is starting to have some wear and tear issues. “We replaced the post caps on the front of the building because they were cracking and separating and it must have been just a faulty cap piece when they put it in it was a precast. Didn’t have rebar in or something and as the water got in and froze it would just completely expand..” The police department has been successful in interacting with the community. Examples the Chief gave were the Senior Citizens Academy and another Junior Academy is planned for mid-July and that is grant-funded. Staffing is at 31, they are authorized for 33. “So these next two hires will bring us the full staff.”
From Building Commissioner Tom Zuppa – “We are still Trying to hire a second local inspector in order to provide the proper services and protection to the city.” Zuppa also spoke about City Hall maintenance being a hurdle including an outdated heating system, roofing, front facade columns, and front entry way. The Commissioner also noted that many more items related to building can be completed online and “We’re adding more as we move forward.”
From Health Director Micah Blondeau. 54 Vendors are signed up so far for the Health and Wellness Fair to be held on the 17th of April. A week later there is a Gardner High School Health Fair on April 24th. Other items include an AED Foundation fundraiser, Escape the Vape, Game Changers, and Heal Gardner. Blondeau also spoke about various challenges at the landfill including the pumping systems and erosion control. The Director also informed the Committee that “We finished grinding of the yard waste, the wood, and brush, and trees…. It was last done in 2020.” Blondeau is also hoping for a better structure for where the attendant sits and some real running water, “Currently there’s the only water out there is on spigot on the side of one of the sheds so they don’t have any place to wash their hands.” The restroom there is actually a porta-potty.
From Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy. The Fire Department is “Currently fully staffed, which is definitely good news.” The chief went over the specifics regarding equipment being put into service. “ On the fleet side of things, the new fire apparatus that was ordered with ARPA funds about two years ago, all three units are now well into production, the ambulance is scheduled for delivery here in early May, which we desperately need, and the new engine and heavy rescue, they’re both scheduled for delivery in July. After that, each one of those units will have to have final equipment mounting, radio installation, and then the firefighters will have to train on them and they’ll go in service.” The Chief also informed the Committee that temporary repairs to the roof have been completed and it is weather-tight at this point.
- Fictional 5
Joe and Don at Gardner City Hall – Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater
Our couple goes to Gardner City Hall to do some errands and end up running in to Don and Joe, who don’t get a job but look for a burger place. Our couple meets some really great people at Gardner City Hall and the husband gets a job with DPW. Listen to the adventures of this couple who run in to Don and Joe on any device, CLICK PLAY
The production is entirely fiction. Send suggestions for future episodes and ideas for real news stories to News@GardnerMagazine.com
More Information About City of Gardner
For more information about services available from the City of Gardner and how to reach various departments and various officials, CLICK HERE for the website.
- Break 3-13-24
Water Main Break From City of Gardner 7:57pm 3-13-24: “This is a message from the City of Gardner. Crews are currently responding to a water main break on Union Street in the area of Linwood Street between Winter Street and Timpany Boulevard. Residents in the area may experience water shut off while repairs are being made. Repairs and shut off may last through the night to morning. Thank you for your patience while construction is happening”
- Cactus Giveaway
A Unique promotion – Artist and Photographer Carolyn Kamuda to give away Cactii.
On Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 11am to 2pm, Carolyn Kamuda will be showcasing various works at her gallery at 400 Pleasant Street in Gardner. Just for stopping by you get a FREE Cactus plant. (One per person) Facebook Event listing, CLICK HERE.
This will also be an opportunity for the public to wish Kamuda well since her resignation from the Gardner City Council just 2 months ago due to health and family reasons. Previous article, CLICK HERE.
- Solutions 3-13-24
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson discusses real solutions to real problems. Many cities and towns are trying to emulate the Gardner Model of transparency, financial stability, and incoming grants which reduce taxpayer burdens. CLICK PLAY.
Real People. Real Problems. Real Solutions. The “Solutions” Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.
On March 13, 2024 we spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about issues directly affecting Gardner residents. Listen to the “Solutions’ Interview on any device. CLICK PLAY
We spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson at his office in City Hall about issues directly affecting Gardner residents including transportation, housing, parking, grant funding helping Gardner, Maintaining City Buildings including Waterford and Helen Mae Sauter, the Waterford story including ADA accessibility and project status, goals for 2024, the Rickity Salt Shed, and various initiatives providing solutions to real problems. The Mayor is open to Gardner doing anything to help the homeless and we discuss.
Mayor Nicholson spoke of the upcoming budget and the internal procedures involved in coming up with a budget to present to the City Council.
The Grant Bonanza
The Gardner City Council had approved $60,000 for a 3rd party grant writer. The City has spent $25,000 of that. Total return so far, $2.7 million. As a result of this success, the Mayor will be submitting a proposal to the City Council for an additional grant writer to specialize in one area so both State and Federal grants can be covered, “the best bang for our buck.”
- Footsteps 2 Brilliance
Gardner Public Schools Posts About Pre-K to Third Grade Literacy Program
Gardner Public Schools posted about Footsteps 2 Brilliance posting, “is a great resource for our students and is absolutely FREE for families to use. The app helps students access literacy curriculum through games and reading materials that help make learning fun!” Parents can register their child at this link, click here to register:
The free literacy app is available in both English and Spanish and is directed to the pre-k to third grade group. The company’s trademark phrase is “Big Brains for Little People”.
Footsteps 2 Brilliance has a YouTube Channel with over 100 videos about the resource, some directed at parents, and some specifically for students. CLICK HERE.
The AUDIO of the Gardner School Committee meeting of March 11, 2024 contains the presentation of Gardner Elementary School Principal Earl Martin, CLICK HERE.
- School 3-11-24
School Committee Hears from Principal Earl Martin of Gardner Elementary School
At a meeting of March 11, 2024, the Gardner MA School Committee heard a presentation from Earl Martin, the Principal of Gardner Elementary School. MTSS refers to Multi-tiered systems of support. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
In the packet and agenda for the Gardner School Committee meeting for Monday, March 11, 2024, CLICK HERE for pdf, extensive information is provided on the Program of Studies and Curriculum and various policies.
Gardner Magazine has a companion article on the Mission of the Gardner Public Schools, CLICK HERE.
- Lore Exhibit
Landscape Artist Mark Lore Comes to Gardner Museum in Gardner MA
For 5 decades, local artist Mark Lore has created art. On March 10, 2024 he greeted visitors to the Gardner Museum to open a featured exhibit of his work which will be on display through May 26th.
Gardner Museum posted, “How lovely it was to open the museum back up after our winter break! We called and many people came: Our first event this season, the opening reception for our spring exhibit, was a huge success. Don’t miss Mark Lore‘s wonderful solo-exhibit! It is open during our regular hours until May 26.” Previous Article
At Mark Lore’s website, CLICK HERE, the artist showcases original oil and acrylic works, canvas prints, drawings, murals, note cards, and greeting cards.
The Gardner Museum has an active year planned. For more information including the Preliminary 2024 Spring Lecture Series Schedule on pdf, CLICK HERE. Schedule is subject to change, but this is the latest available.
For the Gardner MA Museum website, CLICK HERE. The Gardner Museum opened for the season on March 1, 2024. An annual membership is: Student -$1, Individual -$20, or Family $30.
- Week 3-10-24
Gardner MAgazine THIS WEEK – March 10, 2024 with the “Chair Man”
Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers, the “Chair Man”. voices Gardner MAgazine This week. In this periodic AUDIO magazine, you’ll hear about various events in the City of Gardner and the surrounding area. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
More information about the news stories mentioned and links to further resources can be found in various articles on our home page.
Thank you for listening to Gardner Magazine This week. If you hear of news you think we should cover, please email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Hotline 3-9-24
To be a guest on Hotline email SteveWendell@WGAW1340.com or call (978) 632-1340. It’s beamed to planet EARTH!
WGAW HOTLINE RADIO brings local guests to planet March 9, 2024
Steve Wendell hosts Hotline Radio, Saturdays from noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streaming to anywhere on planet earth. CLICK HERE.
Guests and Reports on the HOTLINE March 9, 2024 Show Included: Mayor Michael Nicholson – Various updates regarding the City of Gardner including the start of paving on various streets. Also, the Uptown Rotary project will resume in April. Weekly Update Article City Councilor Karen Hardern – The Councilor said she voted against increasing the marijuana establishment quota because she didn’t want to hurt the existing cannabis establishments. Hardern also said she would like parking meters removed in Downtown Gardner. Hardern spoke of the meters in a January interview, CLICK HERE. A report on Switching to Daylight Savings Time on 2am Sunday March 10th. Article, CLICK HERE. A Commentary on the State of the Union featuring Don and Joe. See complete article and hear Fictional Theater Episode 3 Report on Student Loan Forgiveness – $10,000 in student loan forgiveness is being activated now, it’s called the SAVE plan and is based on income. Here’s more information and the link to apply. State Senator Peter Durant spoke about the State Budget. Durant also spoke about the danger of Massachusetts becoming a magnet for migrants, “You get a roof over your head, $64 per day/ per person” He also spoke about migrants being able to get cash out of ATM’s using EBT cards and then purchasing whatever they want. The Senator is scheduled to have office hours at Gardner City Hall from 1-2pm on Monday March 11, 2024 State House Contact page, CLICK HERE. A report on the Oscars which is happening on Sunday. Here is the official website, CLICK HERE.
- Timpany Happenings
Things are Happening in the Timpany Plaza in Gardner MA
From the data we have at Gardner Magazine regarding the public’s interest, Greater Gardner MA residents are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Aldi grocery store to be located at the site of the former Stop and Shop. A sign at the plaza has announced the opening date to be April 4, 2024. Aldi website CLICK HERE.
Meanwhile, an area has been blocked off so that demolition of the former Santander Bank building can begin in order to make room for the future Chipotle Restaurant can be built on the site.
While all of this is going on, other area movie goers are enjoying the comfortable seating at the Gardner Cinemas which replaced the traditional movie seats with luxury reclining seats just about a year ago. Get your movie times right here, Website.
- Welfare 3-7-24
Gardner Public Welfare Committee with “Round 2” on March 7, 2024
The Public Welfare Committee met for a second time on March 7, 2024 to heard from Airport Manager Isabelle Davis, Bill Franklin on behalf of the Golf Course, and Human Resources Director Debra Pond provide a written update which Chair Judy Mack read for the meeting and the public. Disability Commission did send an update. The Historical Commission did not respond again to Mack’s request for them to appear before the committee. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The Airport Commission met separately on March 6, 2024. Listen to that hour long meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY
- Update 3-8-24
Proclamation pictured is for Sudden Unexplained Death in Children Awareness Month. Here is information at sudc.org, CLICK HERE.
Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on March 8, 2024
The Mayor reminded listeners about various events. Daily Savings Time starts on Sunday, March 10th and the Fire Department recommends checking your smoke detectors as well. —- Vietnam Veterans Day taking place March 29th at 10am on front lawn of Gardner City Hall. —- Deadline to get Dog License is Monday, April 1st because March 31st is a Sunday. —- Various events are going on at the Gardner Museum including a display by landscape artist Mark Lore. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor Nicholson spoke about paving in the Chair City and that the City’s asphalt contractor opens their plant on May 1st. He also went over a major water break on Leo Drive which will mean some paving will need to be redone. Repair of Gardner roof will cost about 1.2 Million with all but a deductive of $5,000 being covered by insurance.
The Mayor concluded by asking for citizen input regarding parking meters in Downtown. Currently most of the meters don’t work, but there still is a 2 hour parking limit. Some options are no meters, new meters, or a kiosk. What do you want? Call the Mayor’s office at (978) 630-1490 or email Mayor@gardner-ma.gov.
- Rockwell 2024
Williams -Rockwell Educational Gift Fund Providing $82,831.60 in grants to applicants
The Committee finalized the grants to 15 different items of applicants from the Gardner Public School System on March 7, 2024. View the complete Press Release containing comments from officials and recipients and more detail, CLICK HERE.
Background: The Williams-Rockwell Education Gift Fund was established in 2014 following the auction of Norman Rockwell’s “Willie Gillis in the Convoy” painting. The fund was set up to provide financial assistance to projects and programs requested by the faculty and administration of Gardner Public Schools to enrich the experiences of Gardner’s students. The grants are funded by the interest and capital gains earned from investments of the sale price of the painting. From the auction to the disbursement of the grants, the Williams-Rockwell Educational Gift Fund has been a collective effort in bringing about a way to give back to the city and its students for years to come. To date, the Committee has awarded $610,064.00.
COMPLETE DETAILS in Press Release, CLICK HERE.
View Large Image of Painting and details about it, CLICK HERE.
Description of Grant Awarded Amount 1. Learning Through Arts and Music $800 2. Attendance at Great East Band Festival for 4th Grade Band $3000 3. Attendance of Elementary Students to Showing of Finding Nemo the Musical $3000 4. Artwork Exhibition Display Panels for Art Shows at 3 Schools $13,000 5. Cost of Gardner Middle School students to attend Nature’s Classroom $20,000 6. Fitness and Recreation Supplies for Gardner Academy Intramural program $2000 7. Two (2) new spotlights for Gardner High School Auditorium $1900 8. To Fund Artist Bren Bataclan as Artist in Residence for a week at Gardner Elementary School $3750 9. New Concert Tuba for Gardner High School Concert Band $5420 10. Student Sound Lab Equipment for Gardner Academy $1300 11. State of the art laser cutter for Gardner Academy $5500 12. Train a service – emotional support – comfort dog to assist students at Gardner Elementary School $10,000 13. Baby Simulators and Software for Gardner High School $6594.60 14. Peer Mediation Training Materials for Gardner Middle School $2000 15. Study Space Creation at Gardner High School with purchase of furniture $4100
- School Mission
The emphasis on helping each individual student has been something for which the Gardner Public Schools has receiving ongoing praise from a number of circles.
Gardner Public Schools Showcases its core values of C.A.R.E. in Latest Proposed Curriculum
In the packet and agenda for the Gardner School Committee meeting for Monday, March 11, 2024, CLICK HERE for pdf, extensive information is provided on the Program of Studies and Curriculum and various policies.
One statement we’re singling out in the packet concerned Gardner High School: “Gardner High School provides an enriched academic environment fostered through relevance, rigor and relationships and ensures that each student learns at a high level.● In the classroom, we challenge all students in a supportive, positive environment that promotes scholarship and helps students develop the skills and characteristics to make them successful for their future. ● On the field, stage, or court, we create fun, engaging opportunities for students to excel in athletics, the arts, and co-curricular groups. ● We promote personal development and a sense of service to our community.”
CORE VALUES: C.A.R.E.● Community: We work together to achieve for all in a culture steeped in tradition ● Appreciation: We accept our roles, respect different perspectives, and acknowledge the good in others. ● Responsibility: We own our actions and honor our commitments by being prepared, involved community members. ● Excellence: We do our best and take pride in all we do in our community.
Gardner Magazine Artificial Intelligence Analysis of Core Values Statement Results in Very Positive Imagery (CLICK FOR LARGER IMAGE) – We used a specialized tool which generates detail.
Publisher’s Note: It is not easy to get an AI Image Generator to create such excellent representations of a positive learning environment. All we did is used the Gardner Public Schools well thought words to achieve this result, a testament to the thoughtfulness of those who are working in our Schools.
- License Trauma
Remember, a Happy Dog is a Licensed Dog.
Dogs in Greater Gardner MA Shocked Licenses Not Yet Renewed
Fido in your Greater Gardner household is being traumatized every day Fido’s Dog License is not renewed. (A little bit of humor to get your attention.) In Gardner, Fortunately, redemption is within reach as you have until the end of March to get your dog license and vaccination records up to date. You’ll avoid late fees by getting your dog license today, giving you the money to get those dog treats your pet loves. Check with your town clerk’s office in your community. In Gardner here’s the official page, CLICK HERE. Any questions, call the Gardner City Clerk’s office at (978) 630-4058.
Licensing your dog is an important public safety requirement. All owners or keepers of a dog 6 months or older are required by state law to license it annually. Proof of alteration must be provided when first licensed and rabies vaccination must be current.
In Gardner, No licensing fee will be assessed for any dogs owned by individuals ages 70 or older. Proof of age, such as a copy of a Driver’s License or Birth Certificate must be provided.
By the way, let them know if you no longer have a dog licensed in the City or an area town so you can be removed from the system.
- Brad Heglin
Brad Heglin Sworn in as member of Gardner City Council
Brad Heglin was sworn in as a City Councilor-at-Large at the Meeting on Monday, March 4, 2024. He works as an English teacher at Gardner High School. Heglin was Chair of the Gardner Centennial Committee last year. Prior to getting a Master of Education degree at UMass Lowell, the Councilor actually graduated from Gardner High School over 15 year ago.
To contact Brad Heglin, email: bheglin@gardner-ma.gov or call (978) 632-3872
- Aging 3-4-24
Gardner MA Council on Aging Meeting 3-4-24
Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
- Rickity Shed
Rickity Salt Shed Is What Gardner MA has for Now
At the City Council meeting of March 4, 2024, more time was requested regarding the proposed $625,000 expenditure for a new Salt Shed. Gardner Magazine wanted you to see the gravity and urgency of the need, so we took some close up pictures.
Mayor Michael Nicholson proposes to use $625k from the Stabilization Fund for this project. DPW Director Dane Arnold has already noted that DPW will do some of the work which reduced the proposed cost to this amount. A new shed would be located on City-owned land across the street.
DPW has been praised for its frugality. For example, it makes its own mulch from downed trees which has been used at the Golf Course and the Dog Park, saving the City of Gardner money.
The picture below shows that DPW is also frugal with its fleet and equipment. Picture taken March 4, 2024.
- Council 3-4-24
UPDATE March 16, 2024: Council President Kazinskas announced that she made an error, the Marijuana article did in fact pass first printing as only simple majority was required. Complete information in this article, CLICK HERE.
Complete Agenda and Packet. CLICK HERE.
Zoning Article re Pot Establishments failed due to NO votes by Councilors Mack, Brooks, and Hardern. Apparently a 2/3 vote of the total number of councilors was required, or 8. 2/3 of the 10 councilors present would have been 7, but apparently that was insufficient. Council President Kazinskas stated, “It did not receive 8 votes, so it does not pass.” This is correct according to State of MA which refers to a 2/3 Super Majority of members.
NO DECISION on New Salt Shed: Councilor Mack requested more time on the item. Therefore, the request for $625k from stabilization for a new Salt Shed will be taken up again.
Storm Damage and Pot Establishments Big Topics at City Council Meeting
Heglin sworn in: As expected, Brad Heglin was sworn in to replace the late Ronald F. Cormier as Councilor-at-Large.
The Video Which Saved the City of Gardner over a Million Bucks: Mayor Nicholson explained that the City’s insurance company will cover entire cost of Fire Department roof except for the City’s $5000 deductible, and they mentioned the existence of the video as aiding in that determination. As the Mayor put it, we’re getting a million dollar roof for 5 thousand bucks. His explanation took up the first 1/4 hr. of the meeting. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The City Council voted to respond to Paul DeMeo’s latest Open Meeting Law complaint by stating that no violation occurred.
The Zoning Article related to adding Sports Betting to the table of uses passed. We commented on this item in a previous article, CLICK HERE.
The Zoning Article related to increasing the quota of Marijuana establishments in Gardner was defeated on a vote of 7 to 3. Councilor Brooks gave a lengthy statement opposing the increase in the number of establishments. Also opposed were Councilors Mack and Hardern. Councilor Tassone was absent from the meeting. It is unknown whether he would have been a YES or NO vote. The remaining 7 Councilors voted yes.
- Zlotnik 3-4-24
Other items included details on the State budget and taxes, and the possibility of the State taking over the entirety of Route 140.
Representative Jonathan Zlotnik Addresses Gardner City Council on 3-4-24
Jon Zlotnik was heard in an informal meeting of the City Council. Listen to his address on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Zlotnik gave some updates regarding various Home Rule petitions:
On the City Charter: “the petition relative to changing the city charter that was submitted to me a few months ago. Last week that was approved by the subject committee to which it was assigned. So the process will go from here now and the next step will be to come to the House floor for a vote to the Senate for a vote, and then the Governor for her signature.”
On the Visitors Center land swap: “We are moving through that process.”
On Civil Service: Numerous communities in the state have moved to get out of civil service. State legislature put a general pause on this. However, because Gardner opted in to the system via a town meeting vote, it can similarly opt out of the system. Or it can stay in and benefit from various reforms that are in the offing.
- Spring Alarms
Tips for Checking Alarms When Setting Clocks Ahead in Greater Gardner MA
At 2am on Sunday, March 10, 2024, you’ll move your clocks forward an hour. The sun will rise and set an hour later. More on Daylight Savings Time.
CHECK ALARMS: The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services suggests checking your alarms. According to the State, “If the alarm uses regular batteries, change the batteries when you change your clocks. A “chirping” sound indicates that it’s time to change the batteries. Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years. Alarms are labeled with their date of manufacture. If there is no label, they are older than 10 years and must be replaced. Replacement battery-operated smoke alarms must be photoelectric and have a sealed, long-life battery and a “hush” feature.”
Protect Your Home and Family with Smoke Alarms: Have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside bedrooms, at the top of open stairs and at the base of cellar stairs. Maintain smoke alarms. Test them once a month.
Complete Home Safety Flyer on pdf, CLICK HERE. Complete Smoke Alarms Flyer on pdf, CLICK HERE.
- Library Catalog
Shop the only catalog that’s FREE – Levi Heywood Memorial Library
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library announced on March 4, 2024 that the new catalog has been released. A great time for you to get your FREE library card. Visit this website, CLICK HERE.
New books. New large print books. New audio books. New film and tv. New e books. New e audio.
The library posted, “Our new and improved catalog launched this morning!! If you have the old catalog bookmarked on your PC or device you might need to update the link to the new web address:“
For more information in general including the various ongoing programs, visit the Levi Heywood Memorial Library website, CLICK HERE.
- Welfare 2-29-24
Gardner Public Welfare Committee Meets for 1 1/2 Hours at Gardner Library
The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on February 29, 2024 at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library at 55 West Lynde Street. Various updates were received by the Committee. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Chair of the Committee is Councilor Judy Mack. Members are Councilors Calvin Brooks and Alek Dernalowicz. Chair Judy Mack said the plan is to have 4 meetings a year with half the departments each time, (thus each department will present twice per year.) Giving Reports were various Directors: Library – Stephanie Young, Veterans– Agent Lynette Gabrilla, Recreation – Youth Commission – Dan Forte, Cable Commission – Tim Josti, Senior Center – Council on Aging – Mike Ellis. The Historical Commission was scheduled, didn’t show, but will be invited to the next meeting. City Clerk Titi Siriphan was there too.
- U.S. Debt
Website has current statistics which are updated continuously, CLICK HERE.
Unique website keeps track of U.S. National Debt in Real Time
We took a snapshot at about 8pm on March 3, 2024. The United States National Debt is approaching $34.5 trillion, over $100k per citizen, over $250k per taxpayer. To put this in perspective, just the interest on the debt this budget year is at $761 billion while the defense budget is about 100 billion above that at $864 billion. Also listed is state and local debt and many other current statistics. There’s even a mortgage/loan calculator
- Cancer Research
Massachusetts has 2.1% of the U.S. Population. However, it gets 4 times that, or 8.5% of the American Cancer Society grant funding. Support the Gardner Relay for Life.
Massachusetts Gets 8.5% of all American Cancer Society Research Funding
The Gardner Relay for Life and other relays throughout the state may support the American Cancer Society, but that money is coming right back to the State of Massachusetts in the form of research grants to find cures for cancer.
Support the Relay for Life. All the details,, CLICK HERE.
Of all U.S. States, the Massachusetts population is about 7 million, or 2.1% of the U.S. population of 332 million. However, the American Cancer Society on its website shows Massachusetts with a total of 92 grants worth $40.4 million out of a total of $472.6 million awarded nationwide. That’s 8.5% of the total. That means Massachusetts gets nearly 4 times the money you would expect by population. Visit this page: Here’s the latest research news:
- Week 3-3-24
Gardner MAgazine THIS WEEK – March 3, 2024 with the “Chair Man”
Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers, the “Chair Man”. voices Gardner MAgazine This week. In this periodic AUDIO magazine, you’ll hear about various events in the City of Gardner and the surrounding area. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
More information about the news stories mentioned and links to further resources can be found in various articles on our home page.
Thank you for listening to Gardner Magazine This week. If you hear of news you think we should cover, please email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Introducing Chair Man
Gardner Magazine Introduces Powerful Voice – the “Chair Man” for News Updates
Periodically, Gardner Magazine presents a recap of news stories in an AUDIO format. We are pleased to announce that due to a miracle breakthrough in Artificial Technology, we have been able to create the “Chair Man”, a powerful clear voice intended to cut through the clutter and be easy to understand. Full name is Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers, forming the acronym, CHAIR. Listen to the “Chair Man” introduce himself on any device. CLICK PLAY.
- Plastic Trouble
Beware of Plastics in Greater Gardner MA
On Saturday May 4, 2024, Keep Gardner Beautiful is organizing a City-wide litter cleanup and nip hunt. Article, CLICK HERE. Much of the problem is due to people tossing plastics and other trash. In fact, plastic pollution is a problem worldwide for the Earth’s environment, so doing something on a local level makes a difference.
Plastic pollution is such a huge problem that online encyclopedia, Wikipedia has a 57 page article on it. For pdf, CLICK HERE. As the article states, “Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic objects and particles in the Earth’s environment that adversely affects humans, wildlife, and their habitat…Plastics are inexpensive and durable, making them very adaptable for different uses; as a result, manufacturers choose to use plastic over other materials.” The problem: Plastics are slow to degrade. Plastics affect humans and animals because plastic pollution can afflict land, waterways, and oceans. “Some researchers suggest that by 2050 there could be more plastic than fish in the oceans by weight.”
Conclusion: Learn more about plastics. Avoid issues. Help Keep Gardner Beautiful in the Gardner clean up and help similar efforts in your local community. SEE OUR ARTICLE.
- Council 3-4-24
Twin Gardner City Council Meetings on Monday March 4, 2024
The Gardner City Council meets on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 7pm to hear a District Update from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. Once available, we will post AUDIO of the entire presentation.
The Regular City Council meeting is at 7:30pm. Here is the complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE AUDIO will be posted once meeting is held.
Mayor has details on City Property Damage as a result of the windstorm of 2-28 to 2-29. Photos of the Fire Station roof damage are included. Photos of damage to a City-owned building at 73 Stuart Street are included. The Flagpole in front of City Hall was damaged as well. Also included in the packet is the 2022 Fire Department Audit in which the roof was referenced as an item needing repair.
Brad Heglin is expected to be sworn in as a Councilor-at-Large. In accepting the position, he wrote, “I have received your correspondence regarding the vacancy on the City Council, specifically for councillor-at-large. I write to inform you that I humbly, though with heavy heart over former Councillor Ron Cormer’s passing, accept this position.”
Another Open Meeting Law complaint by Paul DeMeo – He filed a complaint about the City Council’s reaction to his previous complaint about Executive Session Minutes. Publisher’s note: In reading DeMeo’s latest complaint in an attempt to present facts to our readers, we had a tough time navigating the sense of DeMeo’s logic, on its face his complaint just doesn’t appear to make any sense. So we’ll post his exact document here to see if any of you can figure out what his issue is: View attached pdf, CLICK HERE. Let us know, maybe some of you can decipher it.. News@GardnerMagazine.com
Other items to be discussed: Zoning Amendments: Add Sports Betting to Table of Uses and Increase Quota of Marijuana Establishments and the decision on whether to appropriate $625,000 from Stabilization for DPW Salt Shed.
Appointments being considered. The City Council is considering a long list of appointments made by Mayor Nicholson. Listen to the most recent Appointments Committee Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY
- Fictional Theater 2
Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater – Episode 2 – The Confessional
Don and Joe are back, this time in the confessional with a few honest admissions. Will the former rivals get along? What secrets will they spill? Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
No real politicians participated in this work of fiction.
- Update 3-1-24
Tuesday, March 5, 2024 is Election Day. Complete information from the City of Gardner, CLICK HERE
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with his First Update of March 2024
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the City of Gardner on March 1, 2024. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
The Mayor gives a detailed account of the roof damage at the Gardner Fire Station as a result of wind. A temporary emergency repair has been made to keep the roof stable and a more permanent solution is being considered. The Mayor stated, “I do want to stress that no firefighters were injured as a result of this, nor was any equipment damaged as a result of this. It’s just one of those fluke incidents that happens just because the wind blew the right way at the right time and hit the right spot of the roof.”
The Mayor thanked DPW for work on a water main break which occurred on Leo Drive.
Mayor Nicholson has been sworn in as a member of the Governor’s Transportation Task Force. SEE ARTICLE on this.
Brad Heglin will be sworn in as a Councilor-at-Large at the next City Council meeting. The Mayor spoke of various appointments he has before the Council and that several dozen ordinance changes will be addressed in April.
Events: Thursday, March 28th is a Status of Women Public Hearing at MWCC from 5:30pm to 7:30pm —Dog license applications are due by April 1st to avoid a fine or penalty. Keep Gardner Beautiful is Saturday May, 4, 2024. — Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday July 13, 2024 from noon to 7pm on the front lawn of Gardner City Hall. —
- Transportation Taskforce
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Appointed to Transportation Funding Taskforce by MA Governor Healey
According to a Press Release, “Taskforce to develop recommendations for a long-term, sustainable transportation finance plan for roads, bridges, railways, & bus and transit.” View the Complete Press Release, CLICK HERE.
As a representative of the Massachusetts Municipal Association members, Mayor Nicholson was the only municipal elected official appointed to the taskforce and he stated, “I am very excited to be a part of this group and look forward to the work we will accomplish … Transportation touches every aspect of how people view our state. From economic development, housing production, public health, and more, people need to get where they want to go and often times our streets are the first impression people have of our communities. Programs like Chapter 90 funds, the Transportation Improvement Program grants, regional transportation authority funding, and more directly impact our communities, and I look forward to adding a voice with that perspective to this work. I want to thank Governor Healey for appointing me as a representative of local officials in Massachusetts” Additional Press Release from Massachusetts Department of Transportation, CLICK HERE.
Around Massachusetts and New England
- 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.
The Washington Times stories: News The Washington Times stories: News
- Supreme Court turns down Peter Navarro's request to stay out of jailby Alex Swoyer on March 18, 2024 at 10:19 pm
Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. on Monday turned down Trump White House aide Peter Navarro's request to remain out of jail while he appeals his conviction.
- Congress scrambles for spending deal, haggles over DHS funding ahead of looming shutdownby Alex Miller, Ramsey Touchberry and Ramsey Touchberry, Alex Miller on March 18, 2024 at 9:20 pm
Lawmakers are once again staring down the barrel of a government shutdown after Congress failed to reach a spending deal Monday amid disagreements over illegal border crossings.
- Experts war-game scenarios for 'deepfakes' disrupting the 2024 electionby Staff on March 18, 2024 at 9:08 pm
During a mock exercise simulating the events of an Election Day in New York, experts gathered to confront the grim realities of spreading falsehoods through advanced technology.
- C-SPAN turns 45by Jennifer Harper on March 18, 2024 at 9:07 pm
Let's have a grand round of applause for C-SPAN, which marks its 45th year of covering Congress on Tuesday. A mission statement offers some clues about the public affairs cable channel's remarkable longevity.
- Mayor delays D.C. budget proposal amid funding crisisby Sean Salai on March 18, 2024 at 8:56 pm
Mayor Muriel Bowser has delayed presenting her proposed budget for fiscal year 2025 to the D.C. Council as the nation's capital faces an unprecedented funding crisis.
NPR Topics: News NPR news, audio, and podcasts. Coverage of breaking stories, national and world news, politics, business, science, technology, and extended coverage of major national and world events.
- The U.S. bans most common form of asbestos, after decades of pushback from industryby Joe Hernandez on March 18, 2024 at 10:43 pm
More than 50 other countries have already banned the substance, which has been known to lead to lung and ovarian cancer, mesothelioma and other deadly illnesses.
- Supreme Court seems wary of barring government contacts with social mediaby Nina Totenberg on March 18, 2024 at 10:35 pm
At issue was a sweeping Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals decision that barred government officials from having contacts with social media platforms.
- Pregnant stingray Charlotte brings in traffic, business to North Carolina townby Lydia Wilson on March 18, 2024 at 8:57 pm
Charlotte the stingray in a small North Carolina aquarium has been attracting visitors since she got pregnant without a mate. Businesses in Hendersonville are delighted by the influx.
- Trump unable to post $450M bond in New York fraud case, his lawyers sayby Andrea Bernstein on March 18, 2024 at 6:58 pm
Trump's lawyers say they've approached 30 companies through four brokers and none will accept his real estate holdings as a guarantee on the bond and argue the judgment is unconstitutionally high.
- 'James' revisits Huck Finn's traveling companion, giving rise to a new classicby Carole V. Bell on March 18, 2024 at 5:53 pm
In a fever dream of a retelling, America's new reigning king of satire has turned a loved classic, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, upside down, placing Huck's enslaved companion Jim at the center.
- Billerica School Committee approves budget with likely staffing cutsby Peter Currier on March 19, 2024 at 12:20 am
The Billerica School Committee voted 3-2 in a special meeting Saturday at Town Hall to move forward with a proposed $82.8 million Fiscal Year 2025 budget that will result in cuts to certain positions within the district.
- Fatal shooting suspect appears in San Diego courtby Brendan Lewis on March 18, 2024 at 11:14 pm
WORCESTER — Police officials investigating the homicide of a mother and 11-year-old daughter confirmed that the suspect – who was caught Friday in San Diego, Calif. – can be brought back to Massachusetts to face charges for the March 5 fatal shooting. According to a spokesperson for the Worcester County DA, Dejan Belnavis, who is one of two suspects, appeared in court in San Diego on Monday and signed a waiver of extradition, which means he can now be brought back to Worcester to face charges. The arraignment in Worcester has not yet been scheduled. At around 3 p.m. on
- ‘Access Hollywood’ tape won’t be played at Donald Trump’s hush-money criminal trial, judge rulesby Associated Press on March 18, 2024 at 10:46 pm
Judge Juan M. Merchan said prosecutors can still question witnesses about the tape, which was made public in the final weeks of Trump’s 2016 White House campaign.
- St. Patrick Church celebrates its namesakeby Aleah Landry on March 18, 2024 at 10:39 pm
Lowell's St. Patrick Church celebrated its patron saint on his holiday Sunday with a multicultural Mass dedicated to the Revs. John, Timothy, Michael and Monsignor William O’Brien who led the church between 1848 and 1922.
- The top trends inspiring travel in 2024by Tribune News Service on March 18, 2024 at 9:51 pm
American Express Travel recently released its 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, revealing that 84% of respondents are planning to spend more or the same amount of money on travel in 2024 compared to last year.
- Fatal shooting suspect appears in San Diego courtby Brendan Lewis on March 18, 2024 at 11:14 pm
WORCESTER — Police officials investigating the homicide of a mother and 11-year-old daughter confirmed that the suspect – who was caught last Monday in San Diego, Calif. – can be brought back to Massachusetts to face charges for the March 5 fatal shooting. According to a spokesperson for the Worcester County DA, Dejan Belnavis, who
- Teams take the field for spring seasonby Nick Mallard on March 18, 2024 at 11:03 pm
FITCHBURG — The crack of the ball making contact with a bat echoed off the walls of the main building at Game On Fitchburg as the sun beat down on the turf. Bases were laid out around the field normally used for soccer. There was the repetitive pop of a ball meeting leather as throws
- ‘Access Hollywood’ tape won’t be played at Donald Trump’s hush-money criminal trial, judge rulesby Associated Press on March 18, 2024 at 10:46 pm
Judge Juan M. Merchan said prosecutors can still question witnesses about the tape, which was made public in the final weeks of Trump’s 2016 White House campaign.
- The top trends inspiring travel in 2024by Tribune News Service on March 18, 2024 at 9:51 pm
American Express Travel recently released its 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, revealing that 84% of respondents are planning to spend more or the same amount of money on travel in 2024 compared to last year.
- Commuter rail train collides with tractor-trailer at Littleton rail crossingby Peter Currier on March 18, 2024 at 9:50 pm
LITTLETON — Police responded to a collision at about noon Monday between a commuter rail train and a tractor-trailer at a rail crossing near King and Taylor streets.
In-Depth Stories
Massachusetts – NECN The latest news from around the state
- Chelsea registered sex offender accused of possessing images of child sex abuseby Thea DiGiammerino on March 18, 2024 at 7:47 pm
A Chelsea, Massachusetts, man who is already registered as a sex offender was arraigned on a child pornography charge Monday as part of an ongoing investigation prompted by a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Timothy Brown, 38, was arraigned on one count of possession of child pornography. His bail was set at $10,000. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office said the investigation began due to a cyber tip provided by Yahoo to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The tip reported an email sent by a user with photos attached. The photos showed a child getting undressed. Yahoo also provided data on the IP address that accessed the picture files and dates and times that the email was sent and the account was accessed. The tip was referred to Massachusetts State Police, and the department began investigating. Another man, identified as Kenneth Higgins, of Revere, was arrested on March 13 on the same charge. Higgins is also a registered sex offender, according to police. The DA said Higgins was identified through the email address and Brown was identified as using the IP address that accessed the email account. In a cellphone found in Brown’s home, investigators found a folder titled “13-17 year old females” with 600 images believed to be child sex abuse, according to the DA. Overall, they found 2,700 images of suspected child sex abuse on the device. Brown is a registered Level 2 sex offender. He was convicted in 2015 of indecent assault and battery on child under 14 years of age. “This investigation provides an excellent example of a tech company flagging a serious crime for law enforcement and then investigators from State Police and our human trafficking and exploitation unit following that lead directly to these two individuals. This should make clear to anyone who contributes in any way to the sexual exploitation of children that they are likely to be caught and brought to justice,” District Attorney Kevin Hayden said Get updates on what’s happening in Boston to your inbox. Sign up for our News Headlines newsletter.
- Marking the 34th anniversary of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art heistby Abbey Niezgoda on March 18, 2024 at 6:55 pm
This week marks 34 years since 13 works were stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The unsolved case still haunts Boston to this day, but even as the decades pass, investigators have not given up on locating the paintings and solving the mystery. It was the largest art heist in the world. Anthony Amore, the director of the museum’s security, said tips continue to pour in about the case, with people constantly reporting possible sightings of the stolen works. He said they got roughly 20 tips in the last year from people who thought they spotted the missing art in Zillow listings. “I think it’s incredibly unlikely they’re hiding in plain sight,” Amore said. He said the $10 million private reward that the museum is offering for information that leads to the paintings still stands and he hopes to pay it soon. He said the time that has passed since the heist could actually turn out to work in their favor. “These things are recovered very often after a number of decades because a scary person involved dies or isn’t scary anymore,” Amore said. A key witness at the center of the case passed away last month. Richard Abath, the former guard who opened the door for the thieves responsible for the heist, died after a long illness. He maintained his innocence but was constantly questioned by investigators who thought the heist was an inside job. Former assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Fisher spent years investigating the case. He said deaths like that could be a loss for the investigation, but could also lead to a break in the case. “Whenever that happens, there is hope that somebody who was maybe holding back some information that would implicate a loved one, a family member or a criminal associate would then come forward,” Fisher said. Back at the museum, officials said they are no longer concerned with prosecution. Their only goal is to fill the missing frames with the art that was taken. “Where are they right now? The people who know where they are right now, I believe, are still with us. Somebody has information.” Amore said. All tips can remain anonymous and can be reported to the Gardner Museum directly at this link. More local news ana walshe Mar 1 How Brian Walshe's years-long art fraud scheme unfolded, in episode 2 of our podcast Massachusetts Mar 6 Massachusetts art museum workers strike over wages
- Irish firefighter in Boston for St. Patrick's Day charged with rapeby Mike Pescaro on March 18, 2024 at 6:11 pm
A first responder in Ireland’s largest city is accused of raping a woman in Boston, where he traveled for St. Patrick’s Day weekend. The office of Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said Monday that 37-year-old Terrence Crosbie of Dublin has been charged with rape. Prosecutors identified Crosbie as a member of the Dublin Fire Brigade, explaining that he flew in with fellow members Thursday. A 28-year-old woman told Boston police she had been assaulted at the famed Omni Parker House hotel on School Street Friday morning, prosecutors said. Surveillance video showed Crosbie and the victim at the hotel and the Black Rose bar on State Street Thursday evening, according to the district attorney’s office. Authorities say Crosbie was initially scheduled to return to Ireland Tuesday, but booked a flight for 10:10 p.m. Saturday after police interviewed him earlier in the day. He allegedly boarded an even earlier flight that was set to leave Logan International Airport around 7 p.m. before state police stopped the plane and removed him. “As always in these matters, the willingness of the victim to come forward is crucial,” Hayden said in a statement. “This victim deserves enormous credit for doing that in this case. I’m grateful for the alertness of police in finding out that Mr. Crosbie was attempting to leave the country before he could be held accountable for his actions.” Appearing in Boston Municipal Court Monday, Crosbie was ordered held on $100,000 bail. He was ordered to surrender his passport and not leave Massachusetts. Crosbie is due back in court for a probable cause hearing April 16.
- Work authorization for migrant arrivals stagnant since Decemberby Sam Drysdale on March 18, 2024 at 4:39 pm
Gov. Maura Healey has frequently pointed to getting more migrants authorized to work as a key step in moving people out of the state’s overwhelmed emergency family shelter system, but the number of new arrivals who have work authorizations has stagnated since December. About half of the families in the state’s Emergency Assistance family shelter system are newly arrived immigrants, refugees or asylum-seekers, many of whom are not authorized to work in the United States. As the number of immigrants coming into Massachusetts has skyrocketed in the last year, Healey has repeatedly called on the federal government to expedite the work authorization process to help migrants who are eager to work leave state-funded housing and support their families financially. With family shelter cost estimates of close to $1 billion per year, both the House and Senate are now considering putting time limits on how long a family can stay in emergency shelter. Shelter limits would add urgency to the need for these authorizations as parents would need to be able to work to pay for housing once they are no longer able to stay in the shelter system. The House has proposed a nine-month limit on shelter stays, while the Senate will take up a bill later this week to impose a nine-month limit with opportunities for extensions. Either option would be a significant change to the system, where most families stay for over a year, according to the Healey administration. “The federal government is allowing people into the United States. And my position has been, if you’re going to allow people in, then work with us states on getting people working — expedite those work authorizations,” Healey said last fall. The administration held two “clinics” in November with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to help process work authorizations for shelter residents, where they said they helped “thousands” of new arrivals become eligible to work in the country. Though the clinics seemed to lead to a sharp increase in work authorizations, that number has since stagnated. As of Dec. 12, 2023, 813 newly arrived immigrants, refugees or asylum-seekers in Massachusetts’ shelter system had federal work authorizations. That number climbed to 2,713 individuals two weeks later. Since late December 2023, however, the number of non-citizens living in shelters and able to legally work in the U.S. has remained unchanged, according to reports from the governor’s administration. The most recent report on the EA family shelter system to come out of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities showed that as of March 7, there were still only 2,713 of these individuals with work authorizations. A Healey aide said the work authorization numbers are derived from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and recommended reaching out to them. Despite this stagnation, Healey continues to point at the success of the November clinics in expediting this process that she deems as critical to helping people out of shelter and opening up space for other families in need. At an unrelated press conference at the State House on Monday, responding to a reporter’s question about whether the migrant population is an “untapped labor market,” Healey replied, “I do. That’s why I’ve focused from the outset on getting work authorizations.” “I’m proud that we as a state have really led when it came to getting folks processed. I called on the federal government to act for a long long time, and I also said we’re not going to wait. And so we were able to get folks from DHS here on the ground… That work has continued,” she said. The News Service followed up, pointing out there have been no new work authorizations reported by her office since late December. “The work does continue… We continue to process people for work authorization,” Healey replied. “It’s a good thing right now that Salem Hospital was able to fill its janitorial and cleaning staff. It hadn’t been able to do that for years. So we’re continuing to look for opportunities.” She did not directly respond to a question on why her administration had not reported an increase in work authorizations over the last three months. In the time since late December when the number of new migrants eligible to work flatlined, hundreds of families have been added to the waiting list of folks waiting to be let into shelter. Around 400 families were on the waitlist — waiting for a spot after Healey capped the system at 7,500 families last fall. By early March, that number had reached about 780 families. Earlier this month, the Healey administration announced partnerships with eight resettlement agencies to help families exit shelter by connecting with resources such as housing, job searching and social services. Healey’s office said the initiative, funded by money included in last year’s supplemental budget, will enable families to access permanent housing. More on the migrant crisis migrant crisis Mar 7 Stoughton wants more state funding to manage migrant arrivals Massachusetts Mar 7 Mass. House approves migrant shelter funding, stay limits
- Woman facing charges in string of fires at East Boston businessesby Jericho Tran and Asher Klein on March 18, 2024 at 4:15 pm
A woman has been arrested in a string of fires at businesses at an East Boston business plaza in the last few days. Genesis Hurtado, 26, was arrested Monday on suspicion of setting a fire at an AutoZone on Border Street that broke out earlier in the day, police said. Seat covers had been used to set fire inside the business. Arson investigators had already been looking at fires set Saturday night inside a CVS pharmacy and a Marshalls department store in the same plaza, and officials said Monday that Hurtado was facing charges in connection with those fires as well. A fourth fire was set at a nearby McDonald’s Monday, but authorities weren’t connecting Hurtado to that blaze as of Monday afternoon. It wasn’t immediately clear if Hurtado had an attorney who could speak to her arrest; she was due in court Monday afternoon. No injuries have been reported in the string of fires. Police said that Hurtado, who’s from Chelsea, was arrested across Central Square Park about 10 a.m. Monday after someone reported a possible officer suspect running away. More East Boston news Mar 16 Arson suspected in East Boston store fires Boston Business Journal Mar 5 East Boston Neighborhood Health Center to rebrand boston restaurant talk Mar 4 Seabiscuit, a waterfront bakery and cafe in East Boston, is closing
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- Irish firefighter visiting for St. Patrick’s Day charged with raping woman at Boston hotelby Owen Boss on March 18, 2024 at 10:37 pm
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- Boston City Council eying charter change to avoid another New Year’s Day inaugurationby Gayla Cawley on March 19, 2024 at 12:20 am
Boston city councilors unhappy with having to work this past New Year’s Day are seeking a change in the city charter that would prevent mayoral and council inaugurations from being held on a federal holiday.
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The Chicago Cubs announced one of their most important offseason decisions Monday, naming John Steinmiller, formerly with the Blackhawks, as their new senior director of media relations. It’ s not exactly bringing back Cody Bellinger, but it’ s newsworthy, and that counts for something during this Cubs offseason, where President Jed Hoyer has been biding his time...
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