News Around Greater Gardner MA
News Story Links and Archives
Top 100 Current Headlines 2024: December — November — October – September – August – July – June – May – April –March – February – January —- 2023: December – November – October – September – August – July – June – May – April – March – February – January —- 2022: December – November – October – September – August – July – June – May – April – March – February – January —- 2021: December – November – October – September – CIRCULATION: 20,000+ UNIQUE HOUSEHOLDS —-Politics 2023 —- Editorials —- Environment —- Non-Profits —- Public Safety —- Fictional Fun
Mayor’s Update Page – 2022 and 2023 Updates — Gardner City Council 2022 and 2023 Meetings —– Politics 2023 —- Editorials —- Environment —- Non-Profits —- Public Safety —- Fictional Fun —- TOPICS IN DROP-DOWN AND RIGHT COLUMN
This page carries our 40 most recent stories. For the next 120 stories, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine is also Gardner Herald, and a newspaper of general circulation for Greater Gardner MA. Easy URL for Mobile is 3MX.us —- Jump to News of Nearby Communities — LIVE TV NEWS News & Events: News@GardnerMagazine.com
Listen to any or all of 32 versions of the Chair City Christmas Song. Traditional, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Country, Reggae, Classical, Blues, Classical …more Chair City Christmas page, CLICK HERE. FREE DOWNLOAD too!
From its founding, the City of Gardner has always been a faith-based community. May the Lord Jesus Christ always be with you, your family, and your friends. God Bless You. CLICK FOR PAGE.
- Hotline 5-10-25
WGAW Hotline Radio Features Relay for Life Events and “Dirty Tricks” on Facebook
Gardner Mayor Nicholson with an update including paving —- Dirty Tricks on Facebook Commentary with Werner Poegel — Dirty Tricks on Facebook Commentary with Steve Wendell — Light the Town Purple Gardner Event for the Relay for Life 2025 with speakers including Mayor Nicholson, Council President Tyros and Representative Zlotnik — Relay for Life 2025 Light the Town Purple Event in Fitchburg with various speakers.
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY
Hotline Radio 5-10-25 WGAW Hotline Radio airs Saturdays from noon to 2pm on WGAW – AM 1340 – 98.1 FM – and streaming to anywhere in the world 24/7. Listen Live to the station right now, CLICK HERE. — There is also a page of archived Hotline shows going back almost a year, CLICK HERE.
- This Week 5-9-25
This Week in the Chair City – for May 9, 2025
Gardner Magazine with an update of what’s going on in Gardner Massachusetts. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 5-9-25 NEWS: Graduation – Gardner Airport – Heywood Healthcare Recognition – City of Gardner Recognition – Master Plan – MWCC Mascot – Facebook Follies – Veterans Hub – 25 Main Street
Events: Farmer’s Market, Pop-up Food Pantry, Greenwood Pool, Levi Heywood Memorial Library, Election, plus more…
Podcasts: Non-profits
Upcoming meetings: Conservation, School Committee, License Commission, Disability Commission, Bandstand Committee, Zoning Board of Appeals.
Have info? Email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Relay Theme
Gardner Magazine Releases “Relay for Life Theme” to Raise Awareness of Worthy Event
Cancer has touched the lives of almost everyone you ask in some way. This year’s theme of the Relay for Life is “Journey of Hope”. Listen to this original song on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Relay for Life Theme Hotline Radio to Feature “Relay for Life” segments
WGAW Radio will feature special segments on the Relay for Life this Saturday, May 10, 2025. The show runs from 12:10 to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, or streaming to anywhere in the world. Host Steve Wendell has hosted hundreds of shows to date focusing on local news, events, newsmakers, issues, and non-profits.
The Greater Gardner Relay for Life is Friday June 13, 2025 from 6pm to Saturday June 14, 2025 at 2pm. Location: Mount Wachusett Community College, Gardner MA Greater Gardner Relay for Life website, CLICK HERE.
- UUC Spring Fair
Spring Fair the Day Before Mother’s Day at Gardner Church
The Unitarian Universalist Society of Gardner is having its Spring Fair on Saturday, May 10, 2025 starting at 9am and running through 2pm. The fair is known for its variety of indoor and outdoor plants. There will be various vendors, kids activities, eco-friendly demonstrations, live music, and a Spring auction.
Highlights include a kids potting station and arts activities. You can even grab a bite to eat with the bake sale and lunch cafe. Shop for Mother’s Day with the local crafters and vendors. Stay for the raffle and enjoy the live music. Location: 66 Elm Street, Gardner, MA.
- Non-Profits 5-8-25
For more information. Here are the website links:
AED Foundation, CLICK HERE —- Central VNA & Hospice, CLICK HERE —- Alyssa’s Place, CLICK HERE —- Gardner C.A.C. CLICK HERE —- Mount Wachusett Community College, CLICK HERE.
FOCUS ON NON-PROFITS – 5 podcasts about important local Gardner Organizations
Part of Gardner Magazine’s initiative for 2025 is to profile local non-profits. We’re using our characters, the “Chair Man” and the “Chair Lady” for podcasts on the AED Foundation, Central VNA Hospice, Alyssa’s Place, The Gardner CAC, and MWCCC’s Monty the Mascot. Listen on any device. Just CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – AED Foundation DEEP DIVE – Central VNA & Hospice DEEP DIVE – Alyssa’s Place DEEP DIVE – Gardner CAC DEEP DIVE – MWCC – Monty the Mascot Our intention is to profile as many non-profits this year as possible. Have a suggestion? Email News@GardnerMagazine.com.
- Airport 5-7-25
Airport Commission Meets Re Gardner Airport
A discussion of all things “Gardner Airport” at the meeting of May 7, 2025. Progress at the airport, paperwork issues, and various needed repairs including the loader which the Chair of the Airport Commission stated could not be used last winter. Chair plans to reach out to the Finance Committee for guidance on some needed expenditures. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.Airport Commission 5-7-25
- Heywood Top 150
Heywood Healthcare has a specific page describing employment opportunities, CLICK HERE.
Heywood Healthcare Named to Becker’s Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare
Heywood Healthcare has been named by Becker’s Hospital Review to the Top 150 List of Places to Work in Healthcare for 2025. Becker states the list is based on nominations and editorial research and says “These organizations are committed to supporting their teams through comprehensive benefits, opportunities for both personal and professional growth, inclusive and empowering work environments, and resources that promote a healthy work-life balance. Many also extend their positive impact beyond the workplace, engaging in community service and championing social responsibility.”
What Becker says specifically about Heywood Healthcare
“Heywood Healthcare is an inclusive employer deeply invested in improving employee and patient satisfaction via collaborative leadership and values rooted in compassion, integrity, teamwork and accountability. The organization offers a comprehensive and flexible benefits package that includes $0 deductible care options, 403(b) matching, wellness initiatives and a unique concierge service, all of which prioritize accessibility, mental health and work-life balance. Employee engagement has risen significantly, with a 6.4% increase in satisfaction scores in 2024 and efforts like the President’s Advisory Council and PAC Tiger Teams driving leadership development and customer service excellence. The system also builds an equitable workplace through inclusive hiring partnerships and targeted training programs. Its culture of caring extends beyond the clinic with peer-to-peer support through the “Caring for Colleagues” fund, free emergency meals, onsite wellness centers, and assistance with housing, childcare and elder care. 70% of Heywood Healthcare employees give five or more years of service, and the system is making continuous investments in further career advancement.”
- Best Bang – Buck
Gardner MA makes Top 150 Cities in America List
Advance America surveyed 3,021 real estate professionals across the United States to discover the cities that truly deliver on comfort, community, and cost. The survey is billed as revealing the U.S. Cities offering the best bang for your buck. Gardner came in at #115 on the list.
Here’s what they said about Gardner – Nicknamed “The Chair City,” Gardner is reinventing itself beyond its furniture roots. It’s affordable, green, and full of community spirit. Median home price is $395,000, cost of living is 9% below the Massachusetts average, and the city has over 20 public parks and recreation areas. With New England charm and lower prices, Gardner is a comfy seat for anyone looking to settle down. Only 2 other Massachusetts communities made the list, Westfield and Fitchburg.
“These cities prove that you don’t have to sacrifice lifestyle to save money,” says Laura McCutcheon, VP of Marketing at Advance America. “Whether you’re a young professional, raising a family, or planning your retirement, there are places across the country where your dollar works harder – without compromising on quality of life.” Website, CLICK HERE. Advance America is a site which offers various money saving tips on different topics.
- Master Plan
Gardner Master Plan Process Launched – COMPLETE INFORMATION
The City of Gardner is preparing a new master plan, a road map for the next several years of the Chair City’s development. Focus will be on 4 major areas to include housing, economic development, land use, and transportation. Listen to the Gardner Magazine Deep Dive for an AUDIO discussion of the Master Plan on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Deep Dive – Gardner Master Plan Ways to provide input:
Take the community survey. Use this active link, CLICK HERE. The City of Gardner is also seeking input from residents, business owners and others interested in the future of Gardner.
Come to the community workshop. There will be a community workshop on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 5:30 pm, in Perry Auditorium, located at Gardner City Hall. Complete Details on the Master Plan, CLICK HERE
More Details on the Gardner MA Master Plan
Housing – The Master Plan housing element will provide an assessment of population growth and demographics, household, and housing data sufficient for someone to understand Gardner’s development history and to see how housing policies have influenced the size and make-up of the city’s households. This element will identify current and future housing needs in the City and programs and policies by which Gardner can meet those needs in a sustainable manner.
Economic Development – Economic development is about how people live and work and the opportunities they have to maintain or improve their quality of life. Jobs, wages, education and skills, access to employment choices, and availability of goods and services are all part of a community’s economy. This element will summarize the status of economic activity in Gardner and describe the City’s efforts to further develop economic strategies consistent with residents’ needs and the City’s character.
Land Use – Land use is the centerpiece of every master plan. It describes the long-term plan for conservation and development, designating critical natural resources and open space as ‘protection areas’ and developable land as ‘growth areas’ for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. This element will form the basis for future zoning, sustainable development, and other regulatory changes to implement the master plan.
Transportation – The Master Plan’s transportation element focuses on the City’s current and proposed transportation system of roadways, bike paths, sidewalks, and parking. This element will address current transportation issues and future challenges associated with growth and change, both locally and in the region. It will identify strategies to improve multi-modal mobility and connectivity within the City and to key regional destinations.
- Monty the Mascot
Mount Wachusett Community College Reveals New Mascot – Monty!
Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) is thrilled to announce a new chapter in its school spirit with the unveiling of the new mascot, Monty the Mountain Lion. Gardner Magazine was so inspired by the good cheer that we are releasing an original song called “The Monty Song” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
The Monty Song Press Release Provides More Details
Monty made his first appearance on April 29th at a mascot reveal party. Students gathered to welcome Monty with food and entertainment. On May 6th the Leominster campus will welcome Monty.
Monty is a revamped version of the previous mascot, Marty, a transformation which modernizes and improves the connection of the mascots story and imagery to better represent the community, energy, and spirit of MWCC. After listening to feedback from students, staff, and alumni, the decision was made to give the mascot a fresh new identity that resonates with the growing culture and pride at Mount Wachusett Community College.
“Monty is a name that embodies the heart of our community and the strength of our values,” said James Vander Hooven, President of MWCC. “The change reflects our commitment to creating a positive and engaging environment for our students and community members. Monty will be a symbol of inclusivity, pride, and the adventurous spirit we foster here at MWCC.”
“The introduction of Monty marks an exciting new chapter for MWCC,” said Stephanie England, Director of Marketing & Communications. “This mascot rebrand was the result of months of planning, collaboration, and creative development—driven by student feedback and a strong desire to strengthen our campus identity. Monty is more than just a new face; he symbolizes the energy, pride, and unity that defines the MWCC community. We’re confident he will play a vital role in bringing our students together through events, engagement, and school spirit.” Keep an eye out for Monty at upcoming events, including the Grad Bash on May 5th and at future college events.
- Westminster ATM 2025
Westminster Town Meeting Approves Everything
The Town Budget of $28.4 million and various other approvals were given at the town meeting of May 3, 2025. See pdf for all the details, CLICK HERE.
- Candidate Dips
DeMeo Tells a Whopper – Blake Support Dips
As added to our previous Editorial, CLICK HERE. , Gardner resident Paul DeMeo retaliated for the editorial by falsely claiming this Publisher had made verbal attacks against “Animal Control Officers” who we hold in high regard and have often recognized. DeMeo twisted a comment made to Kimberly Blake, “You don’t deserve to be dogcatcher, let alone Mayor“. As it takes great character to handle the job of dogcatcher properly, the insult is to the candidate, not the dogcatcher. In this Publisher’s opinion, Kimberly Blake’s unwillingness to immediately remove false, sick, or perverted comments on that DeMeo-Blake Group (she stated simply that they shouldn’t be posted anonymously) renders her unsuited for the strength of character needed for the position she is seeking. BLAKE SUPPORT DIPS: After a 3 day poll on the Mayor’s Race, Blake was able to obtain interest in the poll of only 1.7% of group members. In this Publisher’s opinion, this is simply fallout from what went on when Blake ran for Mayor in 2023 and the public does not soon forget.
- Council 5-5-25
At the end of the meeting, 3 councilors commented on the Light the Town Purple event.
Gardner City Council approves Veterans Agreement with Town of Winchendon
The Gardner City Council met on May 5, 2025. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
City Council 5-5-25
With this approval, the Town of Winchendon joins the Wachusett Veterans Service District now includes Winchendon, Gardner, Westminster, Ashburnham, Princeton, and Ashby with a total population of just under 53 thousand people. Staff includes full time director Corey Hasselman, a full time assistant director and a full time administrative assistant. Offices are in Gardner City Hall.Complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. The Council voted to refer the Zoning items to the Public Welfare Committee and the Planning Board and to schedule a joint public hearing with the Planning Board and and the City Council.
The good news on the AUDITS was noted and placed on file.
Councilors Tassone, Heglin, and Tyros commented on the Light the Town Purple event held in front of Gardner City Hall on May 5th. Here are those comments to play on any device. CLICK PLAY.
COMMENTS – ReLight the Town Purple Event
- Winchendon Election 5-5-25
Results of Winchendon Election – $1.9 million override narrowly passes
Winchendon Residents cast their ballots. Question 1: $1.9 million override passed with 896 YES votes and 884 NO votes. Question 2: $2.9 million override failed with 645 YES votes and 1105 NO votes. Further action on the budget will be taken at the upcoming May 19th town meeting.
Other votes: Moderator: Glenn LaRochelle 926, Rick Ward 379. —- Board of Selectmen 3 YR. (Top 2 win) Audrey LaBrie 716, Tiffany Frances Newton 625, Yvonne Senecal 590, and Christine Haslam – Giovannucci 521. —- School Committee 1YR (Vote for 1) Tara N Teixeia 983, Michael Gaynor 101 —Board of Health 3 YR Glenn LaRochelle 1108, Barbara Zisk 49 — COMPLETE UNOFFICIAL RESULTS CLICK HERE
Next step: Annual Town Meeting is May 19, 2025
- Mother’s Day 2025
Happy Mother’s Day
May 11, 2025
Gardner Magazine Releases original “Mother’s Day” for May 11, 2025 – Mother’s Day 2025
“What a joy to be loved so much, be embraced with my mother’s touch, entering the world with so much love, I was the miracle from God above.”
Listen to any version on any device. CLICK PLAY.
EMOTIONAL POP – Mother’s Day SOUL – FUNK – Mother’s Day CLASSIC 60’S – Mother’s Day SOFT ROCK – Mother’s Day POP ROCK – Mother’s Day POP – FEMALE – Mother’s Day
- Editorial – Blake
Editorial: Blake on an Island of Few – Up to Old Tricks?
This week Kimberly Blake announced she was running for Mayor instead of Gardner City Council. Weeks before, Blake arranged this Publisher’s re-admittance into the DeMeo Facebook Group. I’ve been posting a few things including a very positive post about the 4 years of perfect audits achieved by the Nicholson Financial Team. False Attacks began again, against me, against the Mayor, even against the State Representative, some using anonymous accounts. Of course I corrected the record and asked Blake via private Facebook message to honor her promise of not allowing false or personal attacks in that group. – Her response: “Comments like those should be made using the persons real name, not anonymous.” In other words, she would not honor her word, but did take down a few anonymous attacks. I spent many minutes on Saturday, May 3rd responding to the most salacious and ridiculous posts with facts, not attacks against anyone. This upset the liars and false mud slingers who reported me to Paul DeMeo.
The Group did a Poll and almost Nobody Cared
A self-serving poll was attempted in that group stating “With nearly 17k members in this group, I have to ask, who has your vote for mayor? Only 232 group members responded (almost all for Blake) but only 1.4% of the group even cared to respond in 18 hours. That means 98.6% of the group didn’t care during that time. In light of the goings on of last time, it is very clear, Blake’s candidacy is on an island of the very few. In my opinion, given Blake’s past actions, demeanor, and varied concerns on the part of many, it would be a sad day if that person was ever elected Mayor of Gardner. Why would you not rehire Michael Nicholson who by all objective data has done an excellent job since he took office in July 2020? UPDATE: 5-4-25 9:30PM – Interest rose slightly to 1.5% with 36 more participants. Update 5-6-25 3:30pm Interest rose to 1.7%
In my opinion, DeMeo Threw a Fit
In my opinion, Paul DeMeo was just not having it. People would be called out on false attacks and/or false statements. That just couldn’t be. He was losing the narrative. So, once again this Publisher was removed from that Facebook Group. For a brief time, he actually posted a poll “your vote will decide Werner Poegel’s fate.” When I had some fun and added an option for me to become an admin and some members voted for that, well that was it for the poll. The poll itself disappeared and so did me from the group. Some have commented to me that I was only made a member again so that Blake could use me for the vast platform Gardner Magazine has – my opinion agrees with that sentiment. What they didn’t count on is Gardner Magazine is about facts and you will always get the truth reported here. We only hope that other local media will not be manipulated to spread what in my opinion is often nonsense.
Update 5/5/25: DeMeo Retaliated for this article by falsely claiming this Publisher had made verbal attacks against “Animal Control Officers” who we hold in high regard and have often recognized. DeMeo twisted a comment made to Kimberly Blake, “You don’t deserve to be dogcatcher, let alone Mayor“. As it takes great character to handle the job of dogcatcher properly, the insult is to the candidate, not the dogcatcher. In my opinion, Kimberly Blake’s unwillingness to immediately remove false, sick, or perverted comments on that DeMeo-Blake Group (she stated simply that they shouldn’t be posted anonymously) renders her unsuited for the strength of character needed for the position she is seeking. BLAKE SUPPORT DIPS: After a 3 day poll on the Mayor’s Race, Blake was able to obtain interest in the poll of only 1.7% of group members. In my opinion, this is simply fallout from what went on when Blake ran for Mayor in 2023 and the public does not soon forget.
POP – Dirty Tricks FUNK – Dirty Tricks COUNTRY – Dirty Tricks Hope for a Positive Campaign
Gardner Magazine is hoping that Blake will opt for a positive campaign without dirty tricks. However, should it be otherwise, we will call out any false statements in the event they occur. Maybe a song will dissuade bad behavior. So just for fun, we have an original song called “Dirty Tricks” available in 3 versions. Play on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Facts matter…
- Solutions 5-2-25
Trained in history, political science, and with a Doctorate in the Law, Gardner Mayor Nicholson has approached the job with a “to do list.” With the experience of actual daily employment with politicians of both parties, and the ability to juggle multiple roles to give visibility to Gardner (President of MA Mayors Assoc.), the Mayor faces challenges with a goal “to solve problems”. This interview explores just some of those challenges & solutions.
Challenges and Solutions – Questions and Answers in an Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
Some of the challenges included: Turning around the Economic Development Department – Plans for the School Street School – The Rome Building – Waterford Community Center – Board of Health and the staffing of Boards and Commissions – Antiquated City Ordinances – School Curriculum – Increasing Transparency to the public – Staffing DPW, Fire, and PD – Long-needed renovations and repairs to Municipal and School Buildings – Ever-changing Technology – the Sludge Landfill – Rising Costs – Veterans Support – City Charter Update – Holding the City to a Higher standard of sound fiscal management —– Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Challenges and Solutions with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Page with complete text of interview with all questions and all answers, CLICK HERE.
- Audit 4
Details of Federal and 3rd party AUDITS in the packet for the May 5th City Council meeting, CLICK HERE.
They did it again! – 4 years running!
In a communication to the Gardner City Council for the May 5th meeting, Mayor Michael Nicholson thanked his financial team of Auditor John Richard, Treasurer Jennifer Dymek, Purchasing Director Joshua Cormier, and Assessor Christine Kumar for their work throughout the year that has allowed the City to continue its trend of a clean financial audit with no findings or reports for the last few years.
- Projects 5-2-25
Projects May 2, 2025
Rear Main Street
(LEFT) – Rear Main Street – View shows construction has begun.
Willow and Main
(RIGHT) Willow and Main – With measures in place to protect the nearby property, the building was razed, debris was loaded in to a semi, and hauled away. It was a tidy mess.
CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VIEW
- 25 Main 5-2-25
Awaited Transformer to “Jumpstart” stalled 25 Main Street Project
The wait for a transformer had put certain aspects of the 25 Main Street project on hold. A relieved Jon Bombaci posted about the recent development in the long process “The transformer is finally here! Our 25 Main Street in Gardner project has been sitting in limbo—intentionally delayed because we didn’t have enough power to turn it on. After 18 months of radio silence and vague timelines, I got a call two weeks ago that the transformer was going in on 4/30. Honestly, I didn’t believe it… but here we are. Now it’s time to go full send and bring this project back to life. “
This is the transformer they did not receive…
- This Week 5-2-25
A Jam-Packed with Gardner MA News – This Week in the Chair City for May 2, 2025
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 5-2-25 News Items: Graduation – Gateway Fiber – Women’s Circle of Giving – Central Mass Dental – Anthony’s Liquor – Monty Python – Farmer’s Market – South Gardner Hotel – Yard Waste – Greenwood Pool – Board of Health – Power Outage – Levi Heywood Memorial Library – Election – Demos – Surgical Pavilion – Garbose Metal site – Election
Events: Light the Town Purple – Farmer’s Market – Alyssa’s Place 10th Anniversary – Gardner Festival – GAAMHA Golf – Food Truck Festival
Meetings in the Chair City including the City Council – packet for May 5th meeting click here. – and more meetings.
- Circulation 5-1-25
Gardner Magazine Surpasses 25K in time for 25 years
As of May 1, 2025 you will see the unique circulation posted on our home page has changed to 25,000+ due to 14 consistent months surpassing that figure. Daily circulation ranges from 3000 to 4800. Monthly pageviews are 300,000+. Monthly Downloads are 180,000+. We use 1.5 to 2 TB of bandwidth monthly to run Gardner Magazine.
Gardner Magazine will officially be 25 years old on August 4, 2025.
Thank you for your readership and your listenership. As always, email News@GardnerMagazine.com.
- BOH April ’25
The first 50 minutes of the meeting was a discussion regarding Private Well regulations. To listen to only the Board of Health Updates, listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
BOH Update 4-28-25 Gardner Board of Health Welcomes Member, Meets for an Hour
New member Emma Chaitin (pictured far left) stated she has lived in Gardner for 4 years and works for Mass General Hospital. The City Council expanded the maximum number of members to 5 in December 2024. Chaitlin brings total to 4.
The Board of Health undertook a review and the Board discussed the draft regulatons for private wells for the first 50 minutes of the meeting. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
BOH Meeting 4-28-25 BOH rehired a former inspector who worked for the Department about 20 years ago and is coming back — Erosion control project is on hold “because we really never had concrete funding for that.” as far as the leachate pumps, “working with purchasing to get the bid process started”, As far as the ground water monitoring wells, they are on the schedule to be repaired May 13th so that the wells can start to be sampled once again. BOH Consultant CEC will be there to make sure work is done according to requirements. CURRENT REGULATIONS, CLICK HERE for pdf. —- DRAFT REGULATIONS, CLICK HERE for pdf
Later in the near future BOH will have new software which will help with inspections.
Super 8 is winding down operations. However, there was an issue in Westminster with a lodging faciity there, so some additional families have had to be relocated to Gardner. Super 8 is expected to return to normal operations. BOH does not expect any issues.
Next meeting of the BOH will be Monday, May 19th.
- Winchendon 4-30-25
Complete information about the Winchendon budget and the proposed override is available on the Town of Winchendon website, CLICK HERE.
Interview with Town Manager Bill McKinney on the Winchendon Budget challenges and the override. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Bill McKinney Interview Open Letter from Winchendon Library Director, CLICK for article
Publisher Werner Poegel commentary on the Winchendon Override. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Commentary – Override Important April Winchendon Meetings
Gardner Magazine is providing the AUDIO to several important April meetings in Winchendon Massachusetts. The School Committee of April 17th, the Candidates Night at Beal’s Memorial Library, the Select Board Meeting of April 28th, and the Joint Select Board – Finance Meeting of April 29th. Winchendon citizens will vote on May 5th regarding the proposed override, so more information on any of the local issues is helpful to voters.
Editorial Endorsement of Override
Gardner Magazine has endorsed the $2.9million override because of a very simple truth: Inflation over the past few years has made expenses rise much faster than revenue. With Prop 2 ½ artificially limiting taxes even in times of urgent need, the override is what is needed to keep Winchendon on a positive track. Cost to taxpayers is an estimated additional $65 per month for the average home. Cost to taxpayers of not approving the override is possible loss of $50,000 in value to average home in the next 5 years due to diminished geographic desirability risks, (more than 10 times the proposed investment). Some would say the $50k loss is overestimated, others might say it might be more.
Listen to any of the meetings on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Winchendon School Committee 4-17-25 Winchendon Select Board 4-28-25 Winchendon Candidates Night Winchendon Select Board – Finance 4-29-25 
Real World Financial Implications of Override
The $1.9 million override would result in a $24 per month increase in a $200k home to a $109 per month increase on a $900k home. The $2.9 million override would result in a $37 per month increase on a $200k home to a $167 increase on a $900k home. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.
- Power 4-29-25
Power Out Briefly in Several Towns in Greater Gardner MA – Cause a Mystery
For some it was 5 minutes, others a few seconds, but the power went out in the Greater Gardner area including the City of Gardner, Templeton, and Westminster just after 8pm on April 29, 2025.
As of this story, power was still out in the Phillipston – Royalston area to a few hundred customers. Gardner Dispatch told us power had gone out briefly in most of Gardner, but no cause was known.
Gardner Magazine will provide more details when we have answers to the mystery.
Update 4-30-25 11:45am: Templeton Municipal Light informed us that a problem with a High voltage line in Vermont was behind the issue, but there still is no explanation as to cause of that problem. Note that the line is over 100 years old and work is planned within the next year or so to replace a transmission line which goes from Vermont, through Gardner, to Leominster. You’ll see it referenced in meetings as the A1/B2 transmission line.
- Library May ’25
Complete Press Release on pdf, CLICK HERE.
For more information about the many programs and services offered at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, please visit the website, CLICK HERE.
Levi Heywood Memorial Library Announces May Events
Meet Local Author Rev. Timothy Crellin – Book Signing and Community Conversation : Join us for a special evening with Rev. Timothy Crellin, Rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Gardner since 2022, as he discusses his compelling new historical novel, The Land of the Living. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 14 at 6PM at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, 55 W Lynde St., Gardner.
Enchanted Plants: Folklore, Magic, and Botany with Varla Ventura: Step into a world of mystery and magic with celebrated folklorist, “rotten botanist,” and author Varla Ventura as she presents Enchanted Plants: An Exploration of Common and Uncommon Plants in Folklore and Magic. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 21 at 6PM at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, 55 W Lynde St., Gardner.
- Next Demo
“X” Marks the Spot – You‘re Next in Line for Demo
Bids for the demolition of the old Greenwood indoor pool building closed within the last week. Soon we can expect an announcement of which company will be doing the demo work.
A separate bid process is being used for the Outdoor Pavilion which will replace the current structure. More details on both as available.
- Rome 4-29-25
No Loud Explosions as “quiet demo” takes place at Willow and Main
The old Rome Building at Willow and Main is on its way down. Much to the chagrin of thrill seekers, there were no loud explosions as the building was carefully demolished. Some traffic is being rerouted for safety reasons. Flags waving nearby were unaffected.
Because of the previous proactive steps in remediating asbestos and any other potentially hazardous materials, no extra special efforts have to be taken with regard to the ongoing demolition.
- Pavilion
Surgical Pavilion Deadline Extended for Heywood Healthcare – Resolution Awaited
In a recent court filing, Heywood Healthcare received approval to extend the Surgical Pavilion Deadline to June 30, 2025. The court mandated that a meeting take place on April 25, 2025 “in an effort to reach a resolution of the Pavilion Claims and/or the Pavilion-Related Claims”. Some sort of resolution is needed in order for construction to resume and for the Surgical Pavilion to be completed. Our graphic shows the current state of construction. Gardner Magazine will inform you when we have information as to the result of the meeting and/or what, if any, resolution has been reached.
Heywood Healthcare emerged independent from a Chapter 11 Filing in October 2024 and the original deadline to resolve the Surgical Pavilion issue was the 29th of March. At the time of its filing, Heywood had made a lease agreement to utilize the eventual Surgical Pavilion facilities. While Heywood owns the land, another entity owns the building at this point. Construction was paused in June 2023, almost 2 years ago. At the time Heywood announced it was “in discussions to adjust the project’s legal and financial structure to better position itself for the future…” Construction of the project began the summer before as a way to “address the aging infrastructure of Heywood’s current surgical platform.”
- McKinney 4-28-25
Bill McKinney on Running Winchendon Lean – Prop 2/12 Not Keeping Up with Inflation
Winchendon’s Town Manager has taken a sharp pencil to Winchendon’s budget and informed the community last year that the upcoming budget would need an override. Coming up in Winchendon this year is a vote at the ballot box on May 5th in which voters can choose a $1.9 million or $2.9 million override figure. The larger figure represents about a $65 per month increase to the average property owner. If either item is approved, a subsequent Town Meeting vote will still be held on which budget to approve for Fiscal year 2026. To clear up any misconceptions and to emphasize that this is an actual need, not a want, we spoke with Bill McKinney on April 28, 2025. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Bill McKinney 4-28-25 Interview McKinney urged voters to ignore the misinformation that’s out there and get the facts.
- Garbose Site
After almost 3 Decades, Former Garbose Site to be Sold
The Garbose Metal Company operated a metal salvage yard at 155 Mill Street in Gardner for about 40 years from 1958 to 1998. Contamination was found on much of the property to include PCBs, heavy metals, and petroleum compounds. After the City of Gardner cleaned up the property with the help of state and federal grants, it put the property on the market for sale to a commercial developer. (Total cleanup costs exceeded $2 million and occurred about a decade ago) The parcel is about 10.7 acres of land.
The Gardner Redevelopment Authority reviewed a number of offers for 155 Mill Street, the former Garbose property at a meeting on Friday, April 25th. The result is as follows: A bid was accepted and the documents finalizing the sale are in the works. Gardner Magazine will advise you when we are able to release more details as to who, the amount, and plans for the property etc.
155 Mill Street is the lot located directly to the right of Tractor Supply in the Timpany Plaza. In the upper left of our graphic, the profile of the irregularly shaped lot is shown.
- Success of a City
Gardner Magazine Releases “Success of a City (The Chair City is Back)”
With Gardner’s popular Mayor Michael Nicholson officially running for the office once again, Gardner Magazine has released “Success of a City” which chronicles just a small part of the positive transformation which has occurred in Gardner during the past 5 years. “The Chair City is Back, on a Truly Upward Track, Gardner is Noticed Again, a 10 out of 10.” Listen to the uplifting song on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Success of a City – (The Chair City is Back!) Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has had a unique tenure as Mayor, taking office in July 2020 during the middle of Covid, elected twice as Chair of MART, and recently selected as the President of the Massachusetts Mayors’ Association. Nicholson has also been tapped by the Governor to serve on various advisory boards, transportation is one example. The Mayor has used the exposure to promote the City of Gardner at every opportunity possible and takes pride in being Gardner’s “biggest cheerleader.”
- Sheriff K-9
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Introduces Puppy K-9 to the Office
The English Labrador Retriever Pup is named Milo and he goes home with Officer Lindsay McNamara every night. The 10 year veteran of the force will serve as Milo’s handler, daily trainer, and supervisor. Goal is for Milo to help lower stress levels among both inmates and staff as a Therapy K9.
“The Sheriff’s Office has established a staff-centric Therapy Dog Unit to enhance staff well-being, reduce workplace stress, and create a more supportive environment for all employees within the facility.”
View the complete statement from the Sheriff’s office below.
PRESS RELEASE: Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Introduces Staff Therapy K9
A further step in supporting dedicated staff and fostering a positive work environment. [Worcester, MA] – As the first signs of spring emerge in New England, Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office are rolling out a new program with the help of an English Labrador Retriever named Milo. The Sheriff’s Office has established a staff-centric Therapy Dog Unit to enhance staff well-being, reduce workplace stress, and create a more supportive environment for all employees within the facility.
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is held to high standards by various state and national organizations. Since 2008, the Sheriff’s Office has consistently met the American Correctional Association’s standards, which emphasize officer training, facility management, and staff well-being. With the introduction of the Therapy Dog Unit, the Sheriff’s Office aims to exceed these established standards and continue to prioritize staff welfare.
Officer Lindsay McNamara, a nearly 10-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office, will serve as Milo’s handler. Officer McNamara had previously served in various WCSO units, including receiving, classifications, and line operations. In her new role, Officer McNamara will oversee Milo’s daily training and responsibilities around the facilities. This will ensure the Therapy Dog Unit provides emotional and mental health support to employees around the clock.
“We’ve been looking into this type of program for years,” commented Sheriff Evangelidis. “After speaking with partners in corrections across the state who have existing therapy dog programs, we determined this program would bring tremendous value to our daily operations.”
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office currently employs around 600 individuals and has continuously been dedicated to creating a supportive and positive work environment.
“I’m honored to step into this role alongside Milo, supporting the team I’ve worked with for over a decade,” said Officer McNamara. “Stressful situations are a daily occurrence in any jail or house of corrections, but we have systems in place to help employees manage stress. By combining my experience in corrections with the skills that Milo will develop through hundreds of hours of training, we’ll be able to respond to various situations to connect with staff and help reduce anxiety and stress.”
Therapy dogs have been proven to show a decrease in stress for individuals exposed to high-stress environments or traumatic situations. While Milo and Officer McNamara will make their usual rounds in the facility to promote a positive atmosphere, they will also be there to help after critical incidents, working alongside a variety of teams, including Critical Incident Stress Management, Military Peer Support, and other programs focused on employee well-being.
“Just like police, fire, and other first responders, corrections officers have demanding and challenging jobs,” remarked Sheriff Evangelidis. “Access to mental health resources is crucial for ensuring our employees remain safe, happy, and healthy. Milo has made an immediate impact on the WCSO staff who work diligently to keep the residents of Worcester County safe.”
The necessity for mental health support within the Sheriff’s facility is important. More than half of the individuals who are incarcerated at the Worcester County Jail and House of Correction experience some sort of mental health illness. In addition to various internal K9 programs, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office partners with the Animal Assisted Therapy Services (AaTS) of Massachusetts. Through a contract with AaTS, therapy dog handlers visit certain populations within the facility to help lower stress levels and reduce tensions among inmates in the housing blocks.
Sheriff Evangelidis emphasized that prioritizing the mental health and well-being of staff leads to better outcomes for inmates. When employees are supported and maintain mental resilience, they can engage with inmates constructively and professionally. This approach fosters a more rehabilitative environment within the facility. Ultimately, it contributes to improved outcomes for incarcerated individuals. With the establishment of the Therapy K9 Unit, the Sheriff’s Office reaffirms its commitment to the wellness of both its staff and the overall mission of rehabilitation. Sheriff’s office website, CLICK HERE.
- Running for Office
Thinking of Runnin’ for Office? – You CAN do it! – Gardner Magazine Releases Original Song
Gardner will decide its next Mayor, 6 Councilors at Large, 5 Ward Councilors, and 3 School Committee members this year. This song is about Runnin’ for Office, Listen on any device.
Running for Office – POP Running for Office – FUNK Nomination papers are available at the Gardner Clerk’s office and need to be returned by July 15th.
Not ready to run for office but would like to serve on a Board or Commission? – contact Gardner City Hall for details on how you can serve.
- This Week 4-25-25
Gardner Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for April 25, 2025
Listen to our weekly update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 4-25-25 Graduation – Cleanups – Greenwood Pool – Parking Meters – Security issue – Budgets – City-WideYard Sale, – MART – Election – Maki Park – Fire Dept. Roof – Helen Mae Sauter – MWCC – Animal Shelter – Going through a list of events – Going through upcoming meetings and the various topics.
- Nicholson Update 4-25-25
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Delivers Monthly Address and Update to the Chair City
Listen to the entire update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Nicholson Monthly Update 4-25-25 Covered in the Update: A run down of Weekend Events for the last weekend in April —Future Events taking place in May and June — Yard Waste Pickup — Volunteers at the Animal Shelter — novel by Timothy Crellin — City-wide Yard Sale – Outdoor Pool Facelift and Pool Opening Date — Parking Meters Active —- Rome building demo and road closures — Bids on Greenwood Bldg. Demo — Congrats to new Pres. Of Fitchburg State — Gardner’s Small Business Saturday and Sidewalk Sale — MVP Program Ribbon Cutting — Gateway Fiber Internet Ribbon Cutting — GMS Moveup Night — National Day of Prayer Service — May Young Artists Contest — Central Mass Dental Ribbon Cutting — Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting — GES Concerts – Special Olympics – Motorcycle Ride “Edward’s Memorial” — Gardner Music Boosters — GMS Band Concert — Memorial Day Concert —- Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ride – Memorial Day Parade — Various graduation ceremonies. Contrary to the update, the Food Truck Festival is taking place on Saturday July 12th. – Website
- Winchendon Library
Winchendon Library Director Documents Efficiency in Operation of Beal’s in Open Letter
The Beal’s Memorial Library Board of Trustees released an “Open Letter to Winchendon voters from the Town Librarian”. Gardner Magazine is publishing the entire text.
There is an override vote coming up in the town of Winchendon, and because of this there has been a lot of interest from the taxpayers about how the various town departments are spending their money and whether it’s being spent wisely.
At the Beals Memorial Library we have a total FY2025 budget of $268,000. Voters may be surprise to learn that that is about $380,000 less, on average, than other libraries of our population size in North Central Massachusetts.
Of the $268,000 in the Beals Library budget, $199,540 goes to wages for five library staff members and one custodian. As Library Director I earn $72,040 annually, which is about $12,500 less than other directors in North Central Mass towns of around Winchendon’s size.
Also on the personnel side of the budget is $4,300 set aside for wages when staff covers for vacation and sick time. In addition, there is a total of $3,885 to cover the union negotiated longevity payments, paid annually to employees for their years of service to the town.
The other portion of the Library’s budget of $62,075 covers the operational expenses to maintain our 112 year-old building and to acquire new library materials (books, DVDs, etc.). This includes the costs of electricity, fuel oil, water & sewer, building repair, computer maintenance, copier expenses, contractual services (our network fees), office & janitorial supplies, acquisitions, subscriptions, and book processing.
It is important to note that I watch these expenses carefully to make sure we do not go over budget on any of these line items, and in the almost nine years that I have been Library Director I am proud to say that we have never had to go back to the town to ask for more money to cover our expenses.
It’s also important to know that the Library does not have a line item for programming. Every year we bring dozens of cultural and education learning experiences to community members of all ages. The money for these programs is generously provided by the Friends of the Library, who volunteer many hours to raise money for a Library they love. The Winchendon Cultural Council also provides grant funding for many of our programs. Mass Cultural Council funds are distributed to cities and towns by the state, and come from the money you spend locally on lottery tickets, and not from your taxes.
Beyond the budget appropriated each year at Town Meeting, the Library also goes after grants to further supplement the funds we get from the town. Last year we received over $25,000, money that helped to grow our collection, programs, services, and to make our physical space more comfortable and welcoming. Funders included the Winchendon Cultural Council to provide cultural and educational programs, and the American Library Association to continue our nationally recognized See Beyond the Spectrum Autism Inclusion Initiative which supports autistic, neuro-divergent, and special needs individuals and their families. It also included funds from the Robinson-Broadhurst Foundation who, along with monies raised by the Friends of the Library, paid for our new, ADA compliant circulation desk.
Because the Beals is certified by the Mass Board of Library Commissioners, we receive a little over $37,000 in State Aid to Public Libraries, money that is critical to the overall operation of the library. It pays primarily for library materials like books, DVDs, etc., but also for programs, equipment and services that the Library would not be able to afford otherwise.
For every dollar invested in the library, the town receives much more in return. To put it all in perspective, it’s important to know that the entire library operating budget represents less than three quarters of one percent of the total town budget, and that for the average taxpayer, funding the library for one year amounts to about the same price of one new book if purchased at a retail book store.
It’s been said that “No one goes to the library anymore”, but nothing could be further from the truth. In 2024 the Beals had 21,864 patron visits, 2,682 people attended our programs, we circulated 23,268 items, 8,889 e-books and/or audiobooks were checked out through the online app Libby, and 33% of Winchendon residents held a Beals library card.
Libraries are more relevant than ever, and are a critical part of a healthy and thriving community. They offer so much, including innovative programs, social support, and a civic space where members of the community can meet to discuss the issues important to their lives.
On top of all that, the Beals Memorial Library is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is an architectural gem that we all should be proud of and work to protect.
Please remember when you head to the polls to vote on Monday, May 5th, that the value the Library holds as a resource to the taxpayers of Winchendon is enormous, and I am proud to say that the Beals Memorial Library costs Winchendon residents significantly less to operate than other North Central Mass towns of similar population size.
Manuel King Library Director Beals Memorial Library
- Meters On
Parking 50 cents per half hour at meters in Downtown via quarters or ParkMobile app. FREE PARKING at West Street Lot, George Sweeney Park, Pleasant Street, Nichols Street Parking Lot, West Lynde Street Parking Lot North and West Lynde Street Parking Lot South
Meters “ON” in Downtown Gardner MA – Use Quarters or Mobile App
Gardner City Hall made the following announcement on April 24, 2025: “The City of Gardner is pleased to announce the reinstatement of metered parking in the downtown area, aimed at improving access to local businesses and promoting efficient use of public parking spaces. Effective immediately, metered parking will be enforced Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with a maximum parking limit of 2 hours. The rate is set at 50 cents per half hour.
To make the process easier and more efficient, Gardner is utilizing the ParkMobile app, which allows drivers to pay for parking directly from their smartphones. The ParkMobile app provides a solution for those who do not have physical change in their car, as it is a contactless, convenient option to pay the parking meter.
In addition to metered street parking, the City also offers free municipal off-street parking lots for those who need longer-term or alternative parking options. The free parking lots maintained by the City of Gardner are as follows: the West Street Lot, George Sweeney Park, Pleasant Street, Nichols Street Parking Lot, West Lynde Street Parking Lot North and West Lynde Street Parking Lot South.
The use of parking meters is designed to improve turnover and accessibility for our downtown businesses, while providing residents and visitors with a user-friendly way to park. For more information including further public parking details, the appeal process and to download the ParkMobile app, please visit” this page, CLICK HERE
- Nicholson Interview 4-24-25
Challenges and Solutions – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on April 24, 2025. The conversation revolved around various challenges and the corresponding solutions. Listen to the numerous questions and answers on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Challenges and Solutions 4-24-25 We spoke of some of the bumpy roads involving the Community Development Department and the current greener pastures since the Mayor hired a new Director, Jason Stevens, who as the Mayor put it has done “a year’s worth of work in one quarter.” We spoke of matters involving other Boards and Commissions, various City projects, plans for certain City-owned buildings, technology, staffing, budgets, expenses, the landfill, water, and so much more. The Mayor was very specific and informative in his answers.
- Pretzel Day
Gardner Magazine Releases Original Song for “National Pretzel Day”
National Pretzel Day is Saturday, April 26, 2025. Listen to the song on any device. CLICK PLAY.
POP – National Pretzel Day POP – FUNK – National Pretzel Day “Originally made from leftover dough, to resemble the cross that we know, the monks of the middle ages created, a sensation which hasn’t faded. Grab the pretzel of your choice, bite in to your pretzel and then rejoice, enjoy the taste which brings you pleasure, The pretzel is a national treasure. Happy National Pretzel Day… (National Pretzel Day)….National Pretzel Day!”
