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News Around Greater Gardner MA

News Story Links and Archives

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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.

• Graduation 2025

  Gardner Graduation 2025 – Gardner High – Gardner Academy – Baccalaureate Ceremony – Music, Speeches, Celebration!

  

  Listen to the Gardner High School Graduation Ceremony (held May 31, 2025) on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  

  Listen to the Gardner Academy Graduation (held May 30, 2025) on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  

  Listen to the Gardner Baccalaureate Ceremony (held May 27, 2025) on any device. CLICK PLAY

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• Coffee in the Morning

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases original “Coffee in the Morning” Feel Good song

  An original Pop duet “Coffee in the Morning”

  Coffee.

  Coffee.

  Coffee in the morning.

  Listen to the song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  “Love the feeling coffee sends, when I drink it with friends, coffee is always better, when it’s enjoyed together.”

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• Happy Birthday Gardner

  

  Gardner was founded in 1764, incorporated as a town in 1785, became a City in 1923, celebrated its 100th year as a City in 2023, and celebrates its 240th Birthday in 2025.

  More information on the event from Gardner Square Two, CLICK HERE.

  Gardner to Celebrate 240th Birthday

  The Gardner 240th Birthday will be celebrated with Small Business Saturday and a Happy Birthday Gardner Festival on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Gardner merchants, eateries, and service establishments will welcome the public beginning at 10am. More information There will be crafters, non profit agencies and Food Trucks with games, music, and costumed characters to delight everyone. Vendor registration deadline is June 6th, CLICK HERE. Fireworks at the PACC at dusk will complete the day. Gardner Magazine is releasing 4 versions of the Happy Birthday Gardner song. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• This Week 5-30-25

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” for May 30, 2025

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

  In the news: Graduations, Memorial Day, 5 Years Ago, Junior Police Academy, Relay for Life, K-9 Rocky, Flood Maps, Election.

  Meetings Coming Up include both an informal and regular meeting of the Gardner City Council on June 2nd.

  Events in the Chair City including Small Business Saturday and Happy Birthday Gardner Festival on June 21st. Fireworks same night at PACC.

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• Workforce Report

  

  Inaugural Workforce Data Report Released – Explained in full-length podcast

  The Healey-Driscoll Administration has released its Inaugural Workforce Data Report. The report aggregates data from employers with 100 or more workers across both public and private sectors. The analysis is on workplace equity.

  View the complete report on pdf, CLICK HERE.

  Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on the subject on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• History 2020 – 2025

  

  

  5 Years Ago Til Now – A Look Back, Then to Now

  It was a different time, over 5 years ago when the Gardner City Council met on May 4, 2020. Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas was serving as the Acting Mayor as well as the Council President. Current Council President George Tyros had a full beard and a head of hair. Alan Agnelli was the City Clerk. Gardner and the nation was dealing with the first 6 weeks of the Covid pandemic. The meeting was conducted via ZOOM. Let’s take you back to the challenges 5 years ago. Listen to the AUDIO on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  City Council – Fast forward 5 years: Some of the issues handled with difficulty then are handled more easily now with refined procedures. City Council rules and procedures have been updated and oversight has been increased.

  The Mayor: On June 30, 2020 Michael Nicholson was elected Mayor of Gardner with over 69% of the vote to 29% of the vote for Scott Joseph Graves. (25.07% of registered voters cast a ballot) On November 2, 2021, Mayor Nicholson was reelected with 2255 votes to 576 votes for Peter T. Sargent. (22.41% of registered voters cast a ballot) On November 7, 2023, Mayor Nicholson was reelected with 2,459 votes to 1,189 votes for Kimberly Blake. (26.54% of registered voters cast a ballot) Nicholson is running for reelection in 2025. Mayor Nicholson gave his first update to the City on July 24 2020 after taking office on July 13th. It was about 5 minutes long. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A City Transformed in 5 Years

  Fast forward almost 5 years to May 2025: The City of Gardner emerged post-pandemic fiscally stronger and more transparent to its citizens through the publication of meeting videos, agendas, and comprehensive packets of material. Dozens of new businesses came in to the City and a much higher percentage of storefronts are occupied. City leaders have spearheaded improved stewardship of City buildings and welcomed private investors who began a renovation renaissance in Downtown Gardner. Added parks such as Orpheum, Maki, and Park Street have contributed to appeal. A much higher percentage of roads have been paved annually in the last 5 years than in the decades before. Current Mayor Nicholson spearheaded updates to the City Charter and City ordinances. And now, the City of Gardner is working on its first Master Plan. SEE PREVIOUS ARTICLE.

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• Town Crier 5-29-25

  

  Catching Up on Westminster Town Crier Podcasts 3-8

  
  The Town of Westminster MA releases podcasts with Stephanie Lahtinen every couple of weeks. A previous article featured Episodes 1 and 2. Here are Episodes 3 through 8. Visit the official podcast page, CLICK HERE.

  Submit questions to podcast@westminster-ma.gov

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• The Flake – Evil Dr. Mayo

  

  An Editorial – Gardner Magazine Releases an original song “The Flake and Evil Dr. Mayo”

  Sometimes the best points are made in song. This song is about 2 fictitious villains in the northeast who tell bold lies and expect others to believe them. As the song goes “Driven by vengeance of an imagined wrong, their stories are bold but their lies are long.”

  “No more to wreak havoc among the masses, our villains were found to be asses, to get those lies out of your head, listen to the truth instead.”

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• Hubbardston ATM 2025

  

  Hubbardston to Hold Town Meeting – Town Administrator and Town Clerk Review Articles

  Hubbardston Town Administrator Nathan Boudreau and Town Clerk Melody Green presented a video on the warrant articles for the upcoming Town Meeting to be held Monday June 2, 2025 at 7pm (Doors open at 6:30pm). Listen to the AUDIO on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Complete Final posted warrant, CLICK HERE. Complete information on Town of Hubbardston website, CLICK HERE:

  Some of the articles are usual housekeeping articles: To choose all necessary officers, to hear reports, agreements with DOT re public highways, acceptance of grants, the Holden Hospital account, revolving funds, paying invoices from past years, and the Monty Tech assessment.

  Other articles relate to expenditures for the School Boiler Project, the share of the Quabbin Regional School District budget and debt, landfill testing, securing grant services, the Hubbardston Cable Advisory Committee, relocating broadcast equipment to 48 Gardner Road, capital improvements, retiring the Rainbow’s End playground note, rehabilitation of the library basement, direct Community Preservation annual revenue, purchasing a new fire truck, purchasing a used plow truck, and purchasing a new brush mower.

  One article would expand the Town Treasurer’s options with regard to investing town funds. Limitations have resulted in approximately 25% being concentrated on pharmaceutical companies.

  One article would authorize the Select Board to acquire the First Parish Unitarian Church at 2 Main Street, Hubbardston for general municipal purposes.

  One article relates to Williamsville Road and acquiring land to accomplish any alterations.

  Several lengthy articles relate to adding a new article to the Zoning Bylaws relating to Battery Energy Storage systems, adopting a new article relating to accessory dwelling units, adopting a new flood plain bylaw, and changing zoning relating to site plan review.

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• School Report

  

  Gardner Magazine Reports on Schools – Student Attendance, Teacher Retention, and Dropout Rates

  Gardner Magazine utilized data from the Massachusetts Department of Education for this report and the associated “Deep Dive” podcasts. View the data yourself right here, CLICK for WEBSITE.

  Gardner Magazine looked in to what percentage of students are attending school, what percentage of teachers are being retained, and the dropout rates. Districts were compared across the State of Masaschusetts. The Town of Winchendon stood out with one of the lowest attendance rates in the area, one of the lowest teacher retention rates in the area, and one of the higher dropout rates in the state of Massachusetts.

  Student Attendance: Best student attendance in the state was the MA Academy for Math and Science at 98.6%. Gardner was at 92.4%. The Town of Winchendon was at 89.9%. Ashburnham – Westminster 94.9, Athol – Royalston 91.9, Gardner 92.4, Monty-Tech 96.2, Narragansett 94.1, Orange 94.2, Petersham 93.6, Quabbin 93.8, Wachusett 94.3, Warwick 94.3, Winchendon 89.9 Other communites: Boston: 90.5, Fitchburg: 90.9, Greenfield 91.9, Leominster 93.2, Springfield 90.8, and Worcester 91.9 . Listen to the Attendance Data Deep Dive on any device, CLICK PLAY

  Teacher Retention: With data last updated on April 3, 2025: Retention rates in the area were – Gardner 84%, Ashburnham – Westminster 90%, Athol – Royalston 79.2%, Boston 83.8%, Fitchburg 81.8%, Leominster 86.9%, Monty-Tech 90.8%, Narragansett 94.2%, Orange 85.7%, Quabbin 89.5%, Springfield 81.9%, Wachusett 94.3%, Winchendon 68.5%. Listen to the MA Teacher Retention Deep Dive on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Dropout Rates: Winchendon had one of the higher dropout rates at 7.5%, Lawrence was higher at 7.8%. Gardner – 2.9%, Ashburnham – Westminster- 3%, Athol – Royalston – 2.9%, Narragansett – 3.2%, Monty-Tech – .2%. Leominster 1.2%, Fitchburg 2.1%, Boston 4.5%, Quabbin 3%, Many Massachusetts cities and towns had dropout percentages of 0 or under 1%. Listen to the MA Dropout Rates Deep Dive on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Memorial Parade 2025

  

  Listen to AUDIO of Memorial Day Ceremonies, CLICK PLAY

  Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies Held in Gardner

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson posted these photos on Memorial Day and stated, “Thank you to everyone who came out to today’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. I’m proud to be the mayor of a City that does so much to honor and remember the sacrifice and service of our veterans. May all those who served our Country and are no longer with us rest in the peace they served to protect.”

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• The Idiom Song

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases an original novelty HIT “The Idiom Song”

  Listen to “The Idiom Song” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “This song should be a piece of cake unless I beat around the bush. Really the ball is in your court ’cause it might cost an arm and a leg…Idioms make you feel at home, each one hits a unique zone...”

  
  From Dictionary.com: Idiom – “an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements, as kick the bucket or hang one’s head, or from the general grammatical rules of a language, as the table round for the round table, and that is not a constituent of a larger expression of like characteristics.”

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• Memorial 2025

  

  Honoring Memorial Day

  Memorial Day is Monday, May 26, 2025. We honor all who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We mourn our military who have died in the line of duty protecting us.

  Memorial Day has been celebrated nationally since 1868.

  Thank you to all who serve and put themselves at risk while protecting America.

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• Trump Effect

  

  Like Him or Not – the United States of America is under “The Trump Effect”

  President Donald Trump is the 47th President of the United States. His approach to the job is either loved or criticized depending on your point of view. Gardner Magazine is releasing this original Rock-Blues song, “The Trump Effect” about the Trump phenomenon sweeping the nation. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Inspirational words from the song: “Rise to the level of your ability, don’t languish in false tranquility, be excellent at what you daily do….”

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• The Future

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases an original Barbershop Quartet song, “The Future”

  Listen to the song on any device. There are 2 versions. CLICK PLAY.

  Meant to be inspirational, this song is about the concept that the future is built from history – from what the great minds of today do today. Starting with integrity and built with ingenuity a future of prosperity is not too far away. Projects started years ago come to fruition now. The future is a landscape of possibility. It is what we make it.

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• Summertime, Summertime

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases: Summertime, Summertime original song

  The song is written to capture the joy of summer in 3 different styles. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  “Loving the Summertime, I love the summertime..”

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• Krista Sturgeon 5-23-25

  

  Krista Sturgeon to Kimberly Blake: “Please Just Stop, Just Stop, I Thought you Were Running on a Fair and Nice Campaign” Claims Blake Lied to FBI

  Gardner Magazine interviewed Krista Sturgeon who states she at one point was a friend and supporter of Kimberly Blake. Sturgeon feels differently now. After a number of Facebook message exchanges, Publisher Werner Poegel agreed to meet Sturgeon at a public place for an interview with the understanding that he would record everything and present it in its entirety for the public to hear. Interview was recorded Friday May 23, 2025 at the Walmart Subway in Gardner. Bottom line: Krista Sturgeon had a lot to say about Kimberly Blake. According to Sturgeon, many of Blake’s statements have been made with no factual basis at all. CLICK PLAY.

  Background: Krista Sturgeon is a taxpayer who owns a home in Gardner and has lived in Gardner for about a decade. She lives with a partner of 10 years. Due to Parkinson’s Disease and lupus, Sturgeon has a service dog named Daniel Boone who came with her to the interview. He was adorable and well-behaved..

  Some statements from the interview:

  Krista Sturgeon refers to a time recently when she messaged Blake about salacious posts containing false allegations against Mayor Nicholson “If you’re going to do this, take that down..”

  According to Sturgeon, Kimberly Blake made a false report to the FBI about a video which Sturgeon does not believe actually exists. Publisher Poegel asked “Well, you messaged me, and you were very specific, that you thought that Kimberly Blake had lied to the FBI. Is that correct? “Sturgeon stated: “That is correct. I’ve never seen the video.”

  After their friendship soured Sturgeon says that at one point, Blake accused Sturgeon of being a sexual predator. Sturgeon stated, “Blake will destroy people’s lives for no reason.” “And I don’t believe that’s all she’s capable of lying about.”

  Sturgeon ”But if somebody has a differing opinion from Kimberly Blake, it doesn’t matter what it’s about, you might go back and forth with people, but then you end up getting blocked. And it’s like, well, what are you going to do if you’re mayor? You can’t block everybody under the sun.”

  Sturgeon “The thing is, other people are scared to come forward. So she will ruin their lives further. I cannot even begin to tell you the number of people that she’s just tried to completely destroy their lives for no reason. And I’m willing to talk, because I’m like, what are you going to do to me? What more are you going to do to me?” Sturgeon claims that Blake has 4 or 5 online profiles. “I don’t know how any sane human being can have, like, four or five profiles and keep up with it. Of those fake profiles, if I remember the names, I would tell you. I don’t know.”

  Sturgeon: “But Kimberly Blake is a narcissist. She knows how to get into people’s heads very easily. She’s very good at it.”

  Sturgeon revealed that when Blake would receive donations for the homeless shelter, they would go to her partner’s cash app. Gardner Magazine could find no record of a non-profit being established for the purpose of collecting funds for the homeless shelter.

  As far as Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson receiving the honor of being elected to the Massachusetts Mayors Association, Sturgeon said “How can that possibly be a bad thing….Leave it to Paul and Kim and everybody that follows them to make it a bad thing. I’m like, how can you possibly spin that to be a bad thing…I have a screenshot somewhere of when that was announced and they spun it as a bad thing”

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• This Week 5-23-25

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” May 23, 2025

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

  Recap of Various News items including Memorial Day Weekend: Memorial Day weekend is upon us with the Vietnam Veterans of America 21^st Annual Memorial Day Motorcycle Ride. It is hosted by the Patriot Riders of America Chapter 3. It starts at Kendall Pond at the Polish American Citizens Club Registration for riders is from 7:15 to 9:45am. Registration is $25 per bike and passengers ride free. —-Gardner’s Memorial Day Parade on Monday May 26th begins on Elm Street at 9:30am and goes to Monument Park for the traditional Memorial Day ceremonies. —- City Hall is closed on Monday, May 26^th in observance of Memorial Day.

  Other news items: Budget Hearings, City Council meeting, parking meters, flood maps, no drought, and election.

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• Public Safety 5-22-25

  

  Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Public Safety Committee Holds Budget Hearings

  
  The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Meetings under the purview of the Public Safety Committee include Building, Health, Fire, Police, Animal Control, Dispatch, Civil Defense, Ambulance, Animal Shelter, Landfill Closure, and Solid Waste Expense.

  Mayor Nicholson was on hand and various Department Heads provided info and answered questions including Micah Blondeau -Health, Tom Zuppa – Building, PD – Eric McAvene, and Fire- Greg Lagoy. The Committee recommended the various department budgets be approved by the Full Council.

  During a discussion of parking meters, Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier noted that Park Mobile charges a 40 cent convenience fee for use of their app. Councilor Hardern commented that some business owners need to be retrained so they don’t park in front of their businesses.

  

  Publisher Editorial note to businesses: If you or your employees park in front of your business you are costing your business money because you are making it harder for customers to get to you.

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• Zuppa Leaving

  

  
  Here’s a link to all jobs currently posted for the City of Gardner, CLICK HERE.

  Tom Zuppa Leaving – Gardner MA Looking for Building Commissioner

  The Building Commissioner position is posted on the City of Gardner website and Tom Zuppa is leaving the City of Gardner within the next week or so. The Building Commissioner is responsible for the enforcement of the Massachusetts State Building Code and zoning decision matters as they pertain to the City of Gardner. The Building Commissioner is also responsible for the management of the Building Department and the oversight of building/facility operations.

  Zuppa raised the ire of City Council President George Tyros recently when he advocated for large increases to building department fees and simultaneously asked for a large increase in salary. Mayor Nicholson did not present the proposal to the City Council because he did not agree with it. However, Zuppa had sent a letter to the City Clerk and therefore Tyros found out about it. In an effort to be transparent and to make sure everyone knew Gardner wasn’t raising building department fees, Tyros brought the matter up as a resolution in front of the City Council. City Council passed a resolution at the time opposed to any fee increases. It is unknown whether Zuppa’s departure is related to that matter.

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• Green Thumbs

  

  City of Gardner Looking for Green Thumbs of All Types

  Green Thumb Volunteers of all types are wanted to help plant flowers throughout the City of Gardner on Friday, May 30th (and possibly Saturday May 31st if not done). The City of Gardner stated, “If interested in a day of getting your hands dirty please let us know! Contact Katie Jablonski to sign up and get more info. Email KJablonski@gardner-ma.gov or call (978) 630-1490“

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• Flood Plan

  

  FEMA has an interactive Flood Map website. As of the date of this article, the online maps still show a date of July 2, 1981, but there are some notations of modifications since then. Simply put in your location and you can easily find your home’s status, CLICK HERE. —- There is also a very useful FAQ on the FEMA website. — There is also a new online location comparing the map changes, CLICK HERE.

  For example, the current flood map for the location of Gardner City Hall can be found here.

  Gardner Flood Maps Change In July – Complete Information

  The City of Gardner is informing residents that FEMA has published updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps that will become effective July 8, 2025. According to the City, these maps are based on updated flood studies and are easier to read and interpret than the previous maps. There are various resource links below so you can get more information. Gardner Magazine has prepared a “Deep Dive” podcast which explains it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Here is the information page from the City of Gardner with download links for all of the maps and individual map panels, CLICK HERE.

  Two things can happen if there’s a change in the status of your property when maps change. 1. For some homeowners, a flood insurance policy may no longer be required. However, it may be prudent to continue a policy as FEMA notes that up to 40% of flood damage occurs outside of the mandatory flood insurance zone. 2. Some homeowners may now be required to obtain flood insurance. However, Gardner residents facing a flood insurance payment increase may be eligible for a discount the first year and any premium increases may be capped at 18% annually.

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• Drought Gone

  

  Gardner Magazine has previously reported on the improving Drought Conditions in an April article, CLICK HERE. — – Our article in March, CLICK HERE

  Normal Conditions in Greater Gardner MA – NO DROUGHT.

  According to a statement from MEMA on May 20, 2025: “Today, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared the Connecticut River Valley, Western and Northeast Regions have been downgraded to Level 0-Normal Conditions, joining the Central Region. The Islands and Southeast Regions remain at Level 1 – Mild Drought, while the Cape Cod Region continues at Level 2 – Significant Drought.”

  “Recent rain has improved streamflow and reduced fire risk across the state. However, drought conditions continue to affect groundwater levels, which typically take longer to recover. Most regions received about 4-6 inches of rain so far this month, while the Cape and Islands saw substantially less at 1.5-3 inches. Although some regions have recovered at the regional scale, there may be localized deficits in a few areas that will take more time for full recovery.”

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• BOH 5-19-25

  

  Portion of meeting on transfer fees:

  Gardner Board of Health Meets – Raises Transfer Station Fees

  The Gardner Board of Health met on May 19, 2025. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Discussion continued on private well regulations for more than the first half of the meeting.

  Full Meeting Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. — There was discussion on increasing access fees for a vehicle sticker for the transfer station and to increase fees for the disposal of various items. Micah Blondeau explained that the current fees do not cover costs. The intent of suggested increases is to cover Gardner’s costs. The Board approved an increase in fees effective July 1st. Prior to the vote, Chair Susan Avalone stated she did not believe a public hearing was required. Gardner Magazine will provide a list of the updated fees when available.

  Resident Alan Rousseau commented on well testing in the last part of the meeting and expressed continued concerns about possible well contamination despite recent testing. The Board discussed when area ponds will be tested for contamination. Swimming pools will require one test prior to being permitted for the season. A resident asked about the upcoming demolition of the indoor pool building at the Greenwood Pool site.

  
  As of July 1st the new rates will be:

  Fees and Costs	Volume Loads	Bulk Items
  Transfer station annual sticker – $30 Pre-paid trash bags – $3.50	Car – $15 SUV/Mini-Van – $25 6ft Truck Bed/Trailer – $30 8ft Truck Bed/Trailer – $35	Appliances/Electronics – $20 Upholstered Furniture – $20 Mattress or Box Spring – $25 Wood Furniture – $15 Tires – $8 Fluorescent Light Bulbs/propane tanks – $2

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• Council Meetings 5-19-25

  

  Gardner City Council Holds 2 meetings – Budget Major Topic

  The informal meeting of May 19, 2025 was convened to hear a School Budget presentation. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  At the regular meeting of May 19, 2025, the budget items were referred to appropriate sub-committees for further review. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  The 1 year appointment of Jason Stevens to the position of Director of Economic Development and Planning was approved. In addition, the Director’s request to increase the salary to be offered to a combined management position in the amount of $85,000 was approved. Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas explained Council actions and discussion from 3 years ago regarding salaries in a statement near the beginning of the meeting. State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik made a guest appearance to brief the City Council on state budget matters. Zlotnik explained that Massachusetts has the 3rd highest stabilization fund in the country.

  The Gardner Master Plan community meeting is May 22, 2025 5:30PM at Perry Auditorium -Gardner City Hall. More details and link to community survey, CLICK HERE.

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• Winchendon 5-19-25

  

  Winchendon Town Meeting Held – Voters Approve Budget

  The Fiscal 2026 Town Budget was approved at the Winchendon Town Meeting held on May 19, 2025. Included in the nearly $19.3 million approved is the $1.9 million override previously approved at the May 5^th town election. At that time, the override was approved by a margin of just 12 votes. 8 articles involving FREE CASH spending were pushed to the fall Town meeting by which time the State of Massachusetts is expected to have certified the FREE CASH amount. In addition, the just over $18 million school budget was also approved. COMPLETE TOWN MEETING WARRANT, click here.

  As a result of the Town Meeting vote, services will continue at the library, senior center, and other areas which would have been impacted had the $1.9 million override not been approved. A motion had been made during the meeting to remove the $1.9 million override. Discussion arose because that motion would not apportion the override properly among the municipal and school budgets. Town counsel advised that voters would need to review each item line by line if the budget were not approved in its entirety. Discussion continued on both sides of the issue. After nearly 2 hours 22 minutes in to the Town Meeting, article 11 came to a vote and the budget with the $1.9 million override passed 61% to 39%, a much larger margin than the 12 votes at the Town election about 2 weeks earlier.

  The town meeting had a large turnout, nearly filling the gym in which it was held. Community Connector provided free transportation to the Town Meeting and Murdock High School students had offered free babysitting to allow families to attend. At the meeting, a display showed text of what the speakers were saying, in real time.

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• Take It Down Act

  

  Local Facebook Admins Take Note: Social Media Groups are subject to this law.

  A “Deep Dive” Explaining newly signed Take It Down Act signed by President Trump

  First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump has led the bipartisan initiative to get the bill passed in Congress. The intention is to protect those who would otherwise by victimized by online images. The Gardner Magazine “Deep Dive” explains the law in great detail. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  President Donald Trump signed the law just before 3:30pm on Monday, May 19, 2025.

  

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• Budget Served

  

  Gardner MA Budget is Served – City Council to Review

  The Gardner City Council will meet Monday, May 19, 2025 to review the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. The year begins on July 1, 2025. Prior to the regular meeting, the City Council will meet informally (see agenda and packet, CLICK HERE), to hear a presentation of the School Budget. The Regular meeting agenda and packet includes the Municipal Budget, Enterprise Funds etc. (Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE)

  Unlike the sugar-coated raspberry dollar sign in our graphic, the budget served is presented in a very clear format anyone can understand. If you have questions such as: What did we spend before? How much has an item increased? Is there anything new? View the documents and your questions will be answered. Gardner Magazine will present the AUDIO of both meetings once they are held. While the meeting agenda includes the order for both budgets, past practice is to refer the budget to various subcommittees for further detailed review prior to approval.

  During the regular meeting, State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik is expected to make a guest appearance to give a State Budget update.

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• The Budget

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases original song “The Budget”

  No matter how much money you make or take in, it’s easy to run out of money before you run out of month. Solution: “Changing your mindset, don’t spend it. save it.” Listen to the song on any device in a few versions, CLICK PLAY.

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• Case of Water

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases Totally Ridiculous original song: “Case of Water”

  The song is about the ridiculous premise of a case of water being watered down. The song features a lengthy opening instrumental riff and is a combination of Pop, Funk, and Classic Rock. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  From the song: “Got a case of water and they watered it down, think it doesn’t matter, but it’s all over town….they watered down my water, I rest my case… And now I’m living in disgrace! (disgrace)…”

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• Hotline 5-17-25

  

  This is the Commentary on the City of Everyday Kindness contained within the show:

  WGAW Hotline Radio has one of the best shows of the year!

  On Saturday, May 17, 2025, all in one show, WGAW Radio featured the Mayor, the City Council President, the State Representative, the President of MWCC, a student speaker, a Kindness Commentary, and Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr. Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Hour One: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson called in live from the location of the monthly Gardner Farmers Market at the Waterford Community Center — The City of Gardner budget – Paving Update – Pothole s – Other City Projects – ==== State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik on the budget and issues in the district. ===== James Van Der Hooven at MWCC graduation followed by student speaker Lia Gomez graduating at age 46.

  Hour Two: Council President George Tyros made his debut on Hotline Radio – Tyros spoke about the new Economic Development Committee, various projects throughout the City of Gardner, upcoming School Budget presentation to City Council, and improvements to City Council section on website, –==== Steve Wendell on Anonymous Facebook posts ===-Commentary: City of Everyday Kindness with Werner Poegel ====Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr

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• Finance May ’25

  

  Gardner Finance Committee Has Discussions on Impactful Matters

  Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  
  The Gardner Finance Committee met on May 14, 2025 to consider various requests and financial matters. The Committee is recommending that the Gardner Community Action Committee be allowed to proceed with a modification of their leased space at the Waterford Community Center. It would be a 9 foot tall interior wall with an extended size door to provide safe and accessible entrance for the individuals they serve. The wall would provide security for stored USDA foods and refrigerated items, according to a letter from the CAC to Mayor Michael Nicholson. — Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier updated the Committee on the City’s Health Insurance Trust Fund. — Councilor Judy Mack reiterated that the full City Council needs to rescind its 2024 vote naming the City Council Chamber the Ronald F. Cormier Chamber. Discussions revolved around the cost of a bronze plaque honoring the late councilor – it will cost in the vicinity of $4500 to $6000. —- Also discussed: Creation of a special committee for Waterford, proposal that the City Council discuss the City’s current sexual Harassment and other policies, and the current state of facilities management for all municipal buildings.

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• Winchendon ATM 5-19-25

  

  Winchendon Holding Town Meeting on May 19, 2025

  The Town of Winchendon voters narrowly approved an override of $1.9 million at the annual town election. Article 11 funds the Town operating budget with just under $19.3 million for fiscal year 2026 and includes the previously approved override. View complete Meeting warrant here.

  Date/Time: May 19, 2025 7pm Location: Murdock Middle High School, 3 Memorial Drive, Winchendon.

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• Biden – Hur

  

  Biden – Hurr Interview AUDIO – portions released

  While still in office, President Biden was interviewed by Special Counsel Robert Hur. Hur had released a report on the interview stating that Biden was ” a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” Hur was criticized for suggesting in the report that Biden would not be competent to stand trial for his misuse of classified documents and the Biden Administration had refused to release the AUDIO. Now some of it has come out. Here is some of the AUDIO. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• This Week 5-16-25

  

  Gardner Magazine with “This Week in the Chair City” May 16, 2025

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

  Events: Farmers Market, Alyssa’s Place – Small Business Saturday – Food Truck Festival

  Recognitions: City of Gardner – Heywood Healthcare – 4th Grade Student Council – WGAW Morning News

  Information: Pothole Facts – Keno – Greenwood Pool – City Wide Yard Sale – Levi Heywood Memorial Library – Election – MWCC Graduation – Chair City Pharmacy closing

  Upcoming Meetings: Board of Health, Public Welfare, Historical Commission, ZBA, Traffic Commission.

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• MWCC Grad ’25

  

  MWCC Graduation 2025

  Mount Wachusett Community College celebrated the academic achievements of its graduates during the college’s 60th Commencement on May 14, 2025. A total of 662 students graduated, with 424 associate degrees and 310 certificates being conferred.

  MWCC President James Vander Hooven welcomed graduates and guests, “To Commence means to begin, to move forward. While your educational journey at the Mount may be coming to an end, this is really just a beginning. But this beginning comes with responsibility. The responsibility to use what you have gained for the betterment of your communities and families. On behalf of the entire College, congratulations on commencing today!”

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• Pharmacy Closing

  

  Chair City and Athol Pharmacies Closing – Management Decision

  Both Chair City Pharmacy in Gardner and Athol Pharmacy in Athol are closing. Chair City Pharmacy located on Connors Street in Gardner will be closing May 27, 2025. The company website shows “Notice of Closure” and instructs current customers to do the following: “To transfer prescriptions or patient file information, please call (978) 410-4976 or visit the pharmacy prior to May 27th. After May 27th, please contact your physician.”

  Gardner Magazine reached out to Chair City Pharmacy to see if we could find out the reason for the closing. Management stated, “We appreciate the patronage and we appreciate the years of service that we had.” When asked about a reason for the closing: “It was more of a management decision so I wouldn’t want to go in to details on that.”

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• Farmers Market 5-17-25

  

  Vendors are Preparing for First Monthly Gardner Farmers Market of 2025

  Date: Saturday May 17, 2025 Time: 9:30am-1pm

  Location: Waterford Community Center, 62 Waterford Street Gardner

  The Gardner Farmers Market says “Get ready for an amazing day at the market on May 17! Stop by for fresh, local produce – Handmade artisan goods – Live music by Bob Jordan – Kids Craft provided by Levi Heywood Memorial Library – Free Parking – MART’s free market route – drop off & pick-up right at the market…Come shop, support, and celebrate our local farmers and artisans! Market runs rain or shine.”

  For more info visit the website, CLICK HERE.

• Templeton ATM 5-14-25

  

  Gardner Magazine presents “AUDIBLE” Templeton Town Meeting

  The Templeton Annual Town Meeting of May 14, 2025 as presented on YouTube contained out-of-focus video and extremely noisy AUDIO. Gardner Magazine was able to electronically remove much of the background crowd noise to produce AUDIO you can understand. Listen to the nearly 5 hour meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Templeton Town Administrator’s Office advised us that the Town Clerk is in charge of releasing written meeting results. We will post the written results here when available.

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• Pothole Facts

  

  Facts About Potholes in Gardner

  Gardner Magazine reached out to DPW Director Dane Arnold to get the “facts” about potholes in Gardner because “facts matter.” It turns out the City of Gardner has a daily pothole plan which apparently has been well conceived and professionally implemented. DPW Director Dane Arnold explained the City of Gardner Pothole Plan.

  City of Gardner Pothole Plan

  “Pothole repair requests can be submitted through the “Report a Pothole” feature on the City website, by phone or email from residents, or through City Councilor requests. These reports are received by our Administrative Assistant and myself, printed, and delivered daily to the Highway Foreman.

  The Foreman compiles a work list each day, picks up hot mix from the asphalt plant, and dispatches the crew to make repairs throughout the City. During the spring, when freeze-thaw cycles have significantly damaged the roads, this process is often carried out daily—weather permitting.

  To ensure better quality repairs, we utilize two Hot Boxes that keep the asphalt mix at the proper temperature. In the summer months, reports are collected and scheduled in batches to make each trip to the asphalt plant, using a city-owned dump truck and operator, cost- and time-effective.

  Please note that the Mayor is not involved in the pothole repair process. Dane E. Arnold, Director Department of Public Works”

  Have a pothole? Here’s the “Report a Pothole” page, CLICK HERE.