More Local News – Gardner News Magazine: Local News & Articles in Gardner MA

More Greater Gardner MA Local News

News Around Greater Gardner MA (next 120 stories)

For the most recent Top 40 stories, CLICK HERE. – This page stories 41-160 For the next 120 after this page, Click here.

Changes 12-17-24 (12/17/2024)
This is the complete Press Release of Mayor Nicholson on 12-17-24. See separate article re George Tyros report to the City Council, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Mayor Nicholson Makes Changes in Light of Maki Park Issue

In a Press Release of December 17, 2024, Mayor Michael Nicholson stated the following:

I would like to thank Councilor Tyros and the City Council for their thorough review of the processes related to the Maki Park Project. I was disappointed and surprised when the issues arose with relation to this project, and I believe the review that was conducted brought to light various breakdowns in departmental communications that need to be addressed in order to ensure our departments and employees are operating as efficiently and effectively as possible. Put simply, there are policies and procedures that need to change. In a modern working environment, it is important to give individual departments a certain degree of autonomy to do the work they were hired to do. We hire our staff based on the education, training, and experience they bring to the table without being micromanaged in the projects they undertake. However, when issues arise and significant errors occur, such as in this instance, it is my job as mayor to ensure that these issues get corrected to prevent this from happening again- both in the immediate short term and in the longer term.

To that end I have made, or will soon be taking the following actions.
- I have appointed Katharine Jablonski, my executive aide, to the CDBG Steering Committee. This will give my office direct oversight of the CDBG program allowing me to keep a closer eye on their projects.
- The CDBG Steering Committee will meet monthly.
- I am changing the departmental report policy. When I took office, I instituted a policy whereby City department would submit to my office bi-annual (6-month) reports of current and pending projects. Going forward, this will be done quarterly.
- Full department head meetings will also be increased to quarterly to coincide with quarterly reports. This will synchronize communication and updates between departments so department heads are aware of work being done elsewhere in the City that may impact their department, or that their department should have a role in.
- I will require and conduct weekly staff meetings for the Department of Community Development and Planning until all current and pending projects reach completion.
Our role in local government is to work together to ensure that we work together to move the City forward and provide our residents with the quality services they deserve. This is an example of how that collaboration works. I appreciate the work of Councilor Tyros in bringing these issues to light, but also in working to come up with a plan to make sure things simply get better.

As I continue to review this situation, and the Department of Community Development and Planning in general, I will submit a full proposal to the City Council for longer term responses to these issues in early 2025 to include operational adjustments, ordinance proposals, and updated internal procedures.

Michael J. Nicholson, Mayor of the City of Gardner.
Council 12-16-24 (12/17/2024)

Varied Topics at City Council Meeting of December 16, 2024

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

City Council 12-16-24

The Gardner City Council approved $800k from sewer retained earnings to sewer leachate project and $150k from water retained earnings for the valves project. City has 1000 water valves and this is the first phase of multi-year project in a proactive approach to prevent future breakage issues

Councilor George Tyros reported on Maki Park. See separate article, CLICK HERE. Item was referred to the Finance Committee for possible further action.

Councilor Calvin Brooks made 3 different amendments to Administrative legislation. All were defeated on divided votes.

During Councilor remarks, Councilor Dana Heath asked the Mayor when Chipotle was opening and the Mayor responded, “Chipotle’s open day is Friday.”
Maki Park 12-16-24 (12/17/2024)

Written Report, CLICK HERE.

Councilor Tyros Finds Fault with Development and Planning Department in Report to Council

Councilor Tyros concluded an almost 3 month investigation into why Maki Park ended up not being ADA compliant. In a short, special meeting of the Gardner City Council on September 9, 2024, Councilor Tyros stated, “Is this an unsalvageable problem? Of course not. But state and city resources were spent, and it’s now apparent that the final product is not what was originally presented to the council. We were also not talking about aesthetic choices or minor tweaks. We’re talking about differences that go against the core basis this project was submitted and the information we used to make our decision to support it.” The Council appointed Tyros to investigate the matter Original article, special meeting, CLICK HERE.

At the December 16, 2024 meeting of the Gardner City Council, George Tyros presented his findings. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Next Steps: Finance Committee will take up the matter.

Key Statements in the George Tyros Presentation to the Gardner City Council 12-16-24

George Tyros stated, “The design of the park changed from initial concept to bid award. The conceptual layout created by Ty and Bond and presented to the City Council in June of 2022 showed three terraces with individual ramp accesses to each level. The Mayor’s letter supporting the project cited, quote, the terraces would correct grading issues, bring the slopes to a level that is compliant with ADA standards, and allow us to utilize the area in a productive manner. However, in May of 2023, the bid set drawings utilized during the public bidding process for the project clearly showed ramp entrances to the bottom and top terraces with stairs connecting each to the middle. The second key finding was that the Department of Community Development and Planning did not apply for or obtain a building permit for Maki Park prior to its completion. This issue was confirmed by both the Building Commissioner and Director of Community Development and Planning. In the notice of violation by the Building Commissioner, he stated, quote, Mackey Park does not meet the accessibility requirements as outlined in section 19 of 529 CMR, Massachusetts Accessibility Code, as the middle tier of the park is not accessible to persons with disabilities.”

Development Department Had Policy of Not Following Requirements

“Building Commissioner, in a span of a few hours, was able to articulate the issues and violations with this project. The trouble is, the Building Commissioner wasn’t brought into the project until complaints were made by the public after its completion. This happened in this order because, despite there being a requirement to do so, the Department of Community Development and Planning did not apply for a building permit for this project. The Director informed me that his department had never applied for a building permit for any project they had done of a similar scope. This appears to have been a long-standing practice in his department since before this administration. This approach to internal policies is what I see as the first domino.”

Department Member Didn’t Know Where Maki Park Was

“In another instance, the member of the department responsible for the project inquired with the engineering firm where Maki Park site was located. Let that sink in. Nearly two years after the council appropriated funds for this project, the department was asking outside engineers for the specific location of the project, which is visible from this building. In general, it seemed like there was not a lot of policies or standard operating procedures guiding this project.“

Levels of Cooperation Varied

“Overall, I think this investigation went smoothly, but as you can probably tell by reading this report, there were varying levels of cooperation and resistance. But one point I want to make sure is clear, the Mayor was very cooperative and stepped in where necessary to support my work.”

Recommendations Going Forward

“My first recommendation is the creation of an economic development subcommittee. The council should consider establishing a new subcommittee to cover economic development. It would also allow the committee more focused attention on the topic and the department, enabling better and stronger council oversight….. The second is progress reports. The council should stipulate as a condition when large appropriations like this are made, that regular and thorough progress reports are made until the project or goal is accomplished….Finally is a new ordinance proposal that earlier today I submitted to the city clerk, a proposal for the finance committee to review. That proposal is that this community development block grant steering committee shall meet monthly, and I would suggest for a period of 18 months.”

Our previous articles: Construction fencing going up in May 2024 — Lack of ADA Compliance August 2024 —- Mayor placed fault on design engineers August 2024 — Mayor spoke about fixes September 2024 —- City Council meeting September 2024
One Day (12/16/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases “One Day in Gardner”

One Day in Gardner: the scenery changed, the leadership changed, the attitude changed, the finances changed, opportunities changed, connections grew stronger, public spaces grew, excellence became normal, and as a result: The Gardner Stars are brighter, everyday worries are lighter, the future holds the promise, of the Chair City’s success. Listen to the complete song on any device, CLICK PLAY

POP COUNTRY DUET – One Day in Gardner

For the complete lyrics and 3 other versions of the song, please visit the One Day in Gardner song page, CLICK HERE.

DREAM POP version – One Day in Gardner

80’s POP version – One Day in Gardner
Kumar 12-15-24 (12/15/2024)

Gardner’s Assessor Christine Kumar is part of the great Finance Team in the City of Gardner. Mayor Michael Nicholson and various City Councilors frequently compliment the team on its transparency, efficiency, and competence. Gardner does very well on objective State and Federal audits.

Gardner has an online checkbook which anyone can view at anytime, CLICK HERE. Search for anything. The books are open to you.

Assessor Christine Kumar at Work in the Chair City

Gardner’s Assessor Christine Kumar allowed us to take a good picture as we use a screenshot from the Board of Assessors meetings. Christine Kumar stated, “We have a great Finance Team here.” Kumar prides herself on being very understanding. The meetings may be short but the tasks are important to the City. Here’s a link to the Assessor’s page.

Just what does an assessor do? Classify and determine “full and fair cash value” of all real and personal property according to Massachusetts General Law (Chapter 59), Review and act upon all real and personal property abatement applications, Process all motor vehicle abatement requests, Review and process all exemption applications for qualifying elderly, widowed, blind, or disabled veteran citizens, Review all applications for accuracy regarding tax incentives for land used for recreational, forestry, or agricultural purposes, Implement a revaluation of the Town’s real and personal property every 5 years. Gardner Magazine publishes the Board of Assessors meetings which are frequently about 5 minutes long. Meetings frequently go in to Executive Session to discuss certain items and applications privately. It’s easy to look up any property record card CLICK HERE
Dump the Grump (12/14/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases “Dump the Grump”

You’ll find the complete lyrics to this original song on this page, CLICK HERE.

Have you ever had a grump put a grumpy thump in your day? Then this song is for you.

Dump the Grump

Alternate Versions

R&B

ROCK
Hotline 12-14-24 (12/14/2024)

News from WGAW Hotline Radio Show on December 14, 2024

Hotline featured: The weekly update of Mayor Nicholson – an ABC Report on Biden Pardons – Various speakers at the One-Stop Grant Announcements – City Council President Kazinskas about the upcoming Monday December 16th meeting – Wreaths Across America speakers – Dump the Grump Commentary with Werner Poegel. Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY

Hotline Radio 12-14-24
Maki Park Investigation (12/14/2024)

Gardner City Council to Hear Results of Maki Park Investigation

Gardner City Councilor George Tyros was tasked by the City Council with investigating the Maki Park Project. Once built, it was immediately apparent that Maki Park was not ADA compliant. The City Council will hear a presentation by Tyros at its Monday, December 16^th meeting. View the complete report, CLICK HERE.

Key Findings in Report

Conceptual layout presented to the City Council in June 2022 showed 3 terraces with individual ramp entrances to each level. However, Director of Planning and Development Trevor Beauregard could not explain to George Tyros why drawings changed and why those used during the bidding process did not reflect ADA compliance. In addition, Department of Community Planning and Development did not apply for or obtain a required building permit for construction of Maki Park. The complete report goes in to much more detail, CLICK HERE. —— For the complete agenda and packet for the December 16th City Council meeting, CLICK HERE.
Listens 12-14-24 (12/14/2024)

Publisher’s Note: It gives me great joy to report on the good people of Gardner whether it’s elected officials, business owners, non-profit leaders, or individuals. The 3 councilors mentioned here are part of a group of 11 really good people. Send any article ideas to News@GardnerMagazine.com. The local hero may be the person standing right next to you.

Gardner Public Service Committee Compassion Strikes a Chord with our Readers

The Gardner Public Service Committee is composed of City Councilors: Chair Paul Tassone, George Tyros, and David Thibeault-Munoz, Gardner Magazine reported on an example of compassion shown to someone who spoke to the Public Service Committee about a water bill. Here’s the original article with the AUDIO. The AUDIO of that interaction has had 5,478 listens in December 2024 up to December 13th. Add the listens in November of 1656 and the total is 7134. The kindness shown in that interaction apparently struck a chord with our readers.

The next most popular AUDIO items this month so far have been the Gardner City Council meeting of November 18^th with 3,019 listens and the Nicholson “Road Ahead” interview with 2,914 listens. (1604 listens in November, total 4518) Rounding out the top 10: the entire Public Service Committee meeting – 2,901, ZBA meeting 2,857, First Responder Odyssey 26 min. song – 2,614, City Council Informal Meeting 2,613, Nov Finance Committee Meeting – 1,943, Nov. Public Welfare meeting – 1906, Planning Board Nov. – 1899, and School Committee Nov. – 1802. The GAAMHA Christmas Tree song – 1760, Mike the Champion Dream-Pop- 1674, Officially Christmas in Gardner 1558, Trump Dance only 430. Songs page. These stats are for December listens only up to 12-13-24.
One Stop 12-13-24 (12/13/2024)

State Chooses City of Gardner as Location to Announce Grants

State and local officials including Secretary Yvonne Hao of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development were on hand for an awards ceremony held at Gardner’s Perry Auditorium on December 13, 2024. According to Mayor Michael Nicholson, “Gardner did not apply for or receive this award this year, but they chose our City for this event to highlight the successes we’ve been able to achieve through this program in the awards we have received in the past.”

37 grant awards through the Underutilized Properties Program totaled .$18,704,674. “Through Community One Stop for Growth, we’re building stronger communities throughout Massachusetts,” said Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao. “By redeveloping blighted and vacant properties, we are fostering an equitable economy for future generations and ensuring that every community has the right resources to succeed.”

Complete List of grants is contained in this Press Release from the Healey-Driscoll Administration, CLICK HERE.
Update 12-13-24 (12/13/2024)

Decorations at Gardner City Hall

A Holiday Season Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Listen to the December 13, 2024 update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 12-13-24

EVENTS – Saturday December 14th: Good Earth Farm and Garden Center on West Broadway hosts Santa Claus from 10am to 2pm. —- Sun. December 15th: Winter Carnival with Elsa and Anna at the Black Dove Art Studio from 3pm to 5pm. — Tues. Dec. 17th is Senior Center Christmas Caroling Sing Along from 1:30 to 3pm. —- Weds. December 18th: Library has Pajama Story Time with Santa Claus at 6pm —- Weds. December 18th: Gardner High School Winter Concert being held at the gym at 7pm. —- December 19th: Annual Christmas Lights Tour on horse-drawn carriage from 4pm to 6pm, ride is FREE and leaves from Gardner City Hall.

Food/Clothing/Toy Drive in Gardner City Hall Rotunda going on now to benefit the Gardner CAC. Please bring in donations by December 23rd.

Looking Ahead: House of Peace and Education hosts a night of games on Friday, January 3rd from 6:30 to 8:30pm.
Welfare 12-12-24 (12/13/2024)

Lots of information here. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Public Welfare 12-12-24

Gardner Public Welfare Committee Hears Update from Various Departments in a lengthy meeting on December 12, 2024

Veterans: Veterans Agent and Director Cory Hasselmann provided an update. Nolan Buck is the assistant veterans agent. To reach the office call (978) 630-4017.

Historical: Charles LaHaye spoke on behalf of the Historical Commission and the ongoing work to document City’s artifacts. Helen Mae Sauter roof is leading on to 3^rd floor, causing damage. Items from the former School Street School will be going to the Gardner Museum before demolition.

Airport: Airport Director Isabelle Davis re Airport Commission. Airport is now open to the public Davis spoke about getting rid of the “dead wood” on the Airport Commission and was advised by Chair Judy Mack that it was inappropriate to discuss the names of individual members. MIT has done testing at the Gardner Airport to test drones. Airport Commission Chair also spoke. Airport was discussed at length.

Senior Center/Council on Aging: Mike Ellis said about 2000 people participated in various programs. Volunteers performed about 15,000 hours of volunteer work. Ellis spoke extensively about the activities at the senior center.

Disability Commission: Amanda Morse reported that the Chair of the Disability Commission resigned. Currently there are 3 members. A minimum of 5 are needed. Greenwood Pool: Councilor Mack expressed that she would like the Greenwood Pool open on Sunday if possible. Director Morse was favorable to the idea. Morse also stated that the Spray Park will be open this year.
Finance 12-11-24 (12/13/2024)

Finance Committee Hears About Gardner Fire Department Budget and DPW Improvements

Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 12-11-24

A report and discussion regarding the Fire Department budget took up most of the meeting. Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy informed the members about staffing levels, overtime expenses, and the possible future request for FREE CASH. Cost of responding to fall brush fires impacted the budget. The Fire Department will be close to full staffing again in January, even after 2 departing members.

DPW Director Dane Arnold and DPW Business Manager Chris Coughlin reported on a request to transfer $800k in sewer retained earnings to sewer lechate pump station improvements. Another request for $150k from water retained earnings would go for water repairs needed for valve replacements. Director Arnold reported that there are over 1000 valves in the system. Plan is to exercise the valves and replace the defective ones. New water main which was grant funded has been installed – it was covered by a $1 million grant.
Empire 12-13-24 (12/13/2024)

“M” and “BOA” Building Owners Praised for the Look

There’s heaps of praise online for the owners of Empire Management who have spruced up the building housing their company, decorate the BOA building they purchased and will rent out at some point, and who have announced plans to repair the large clock.

If you only saw the picture at lower right, you’d think it was a small display. Turns out, it’s rather tall when you look at the photo above.
Winter Concert 2024 (12/11/2024)

Gardner High Winter Concert Having Several Performing Groups

The gym at Gardner High School will be the venue for the Winter Concert on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 7:00pm. Concert goers are asked to please use the doors near the cafeteria entrance. (Auditorium is under renovation.)

For the admission charge of $4 for adults and $3 for students and seniors, the audience will hear music and song from the talents of a number of performing groups.

Performing groups include the Jazz Band, 8th Grade Chorus, 8th Grade Band, Select Choir, Color Guard, High School Chorus, and High School Band.
Water Settled (12/10/2024)

Initial Filing 2017

PRESS RELEASE re Water Lawsuit SETTLEMENT from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on December 10, 2024:

Mayor Nicholson wrote “Please be advised that the class action lawsuit filed by Janice Magliacane in 2017 alleging various claims against the City of Gardner and Suez Water Environmental Services, Inc., the City’s previous water treatment contractor, in relation to the City’s public water supply has been settled. The full terms of the settlement agreement remain subject to negotiation between the parties and final Court approval. The City will provide more information once the final terms of the settlement have been approved by the Court. No additional information is currently available at this time.”

Lawsuit Settled

Gardner Magazine will update you as the settlement is finalized, receives court approval, and further information and details are released. View recent documents and original lawsuit filing below.

The lawsuit had been scheduled for trial in October 2025. One of the allegations was that Gardner water caused copper heating system coils to fail prematurely. In recent years, local heating oil companies have utilized coils made with alloys other than copper to avoid any potential problem with Gardner water. Gardner water reports show that the City’s water meets all applicable standards prescribed by law. Here is the most recent report, CLICK HERE.

Court Documents in the Case

Settlement Filing Awaiting Final Court Approval, CLICK HERE. —– Progression of the case from its filing in December 2017, CLICK HERE —- To see the entire history of this case from its filing to date, you can access case number 1785CV02005 on this site, CLICK HERE. This is the actual case filing of the 29 page original lawsuit, CLICK HERE.
Health 12-9-24 (12/10/2024)

Board of Health to Coordinate Joint Meeting Regarding Landfill

Director Micah Blondeau stated he will be scheduling a meeting between Health, DPW, and Conservation departments to compare notes on the landfill. He also stated that mitigating the landfill erosion is projected to cost over $173k with the work to be done in the Spring. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Board of Health 12-9-24

In other matters, Chipotle has been inspected and will be opening soon with both dine-in and take out service. The former Crown Chicken location in Downtown is being taken over by Tata’s who will be serving Puerto Rican Food. Tata’s has had a mobile location.
Trump Dance (12/9/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases “The Trump Dance” for a little bit of fun…

Whether you’re a Trump fan or not, Donald Trump’s goofy dance moves to the Village People’s YMCA are being replicated by young or old. This is a new song called “The Trump Dance” and asks you to “Angle the ankles, leverage the legs, hug those hips, turn those heads…Do the Trump Dance” This version is in the style of a 70s Disco Hit. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

The Trump Dance

More versions are on our Original music page, CLICK HERE.

Other recent releases include: Officially Christmas in Gardner, Christmas Wish for Peace, WGAW Hotline Barbershop Quartet, Heroes of Gardner are Everywhere, and Gettin’ Ready for the New Year.
Homeless 12-9-24 (12/9/2024)

This article provides links to State of MA Guidance to Municipalities regarding Homeless Shelters and a list of some local resources and website links.

Homeless Crisis Forefront of Local Concerns in Gardner MA

A group of local residents in Gardner got together in the past week and managed to get about a half dozen homeless people off the street out of the cold weather. Hundreds of positive responses were received on Social Media. Any naysayers pointed to concerns about adhering to State or Local regulations. Gardner Magazine researched the issue and found some guidance from the State, but homeless shelters do not even appear to be mentioned in the City Code. More below and also a list of local resources with helpful links.

Guidance: State of MA

According Guidance from the State of MA to municipalities, Homeless Shelters fall under 105 CMR 410.000 (Housing Code). Municipalities are allowed to enact stricter requirements as long as they don’t conflict with the laws of the commonwealth or provisions of the code. “Since Massachusetts law gives homeless families a right to shelter, any regulations enacted at the local level which would have the effect of limiting the siting of homeless shelters could be interpreted as violating the state law regarding the right to shelter.” Complete Document, CLICK HERE. Any questions may be directed to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Community Sanitation Program at (617) 624-5757 or via email: CommunitySanitation@mass.gov.

Local Homeless Resources Do Exist

In the local area, the Gardner Emergency Housing Mission, GEHM provides resources for homeless families. According to GEHM “The focus of the Gardner Emergency Housing Mission is providing short-term (3 months), transitional housing for families with children in the Gardner schools system. The structure is unique because it eliminates families being relocated or split up to receive shelter. This keeps families in their established, local community and near schools, while maintaining work-life consistency in their time of need “. CLICK HERE for website. ==== MOC Inc. provides some housing services. According to MOC, ” MOC provides supportive services and case management to eligible families placed in family shelter facilities. Re-housing services focus on assisting families in shelter to find permanent housing and include: developing a housing search & budget plan; providing referrals to appropriate housing services and credit counselors; ongoing case management and short- and medium-term rental subsidies when funds are available.” Website CLICK HERE. ==== The Gardner Community Action Committee provides a limited amount of emergency funds for the homeless and of course operates a Food Bank stating, “focused on serving the needs of economically disadvantaged individuals throughout the Greater Gardner community.” Website, CLICK HERE. ==== MVOC, the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center has some housing resources. stating, “MVOC offers a variety of housing options- independent apartments, permanent supportive housing, and transitional supportive housing.” Website, CLICK HERE. ====The Gardner Housing Authority provides a list of resources. Website, CLICK HERE. ====UPDATE 12-11-24: North Star Family Services, Inc. President and CEO Jon Hogue contacted Gardner Magazine stating they routinely serve Gardner residents. Here’s a link to their website, CLICK HERE. ==== GAAMHA “GAAMHA is an organization dedicated to providing a wide range of services to individuals throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire” link to their website, CLICK HERE. – Local code enforcement regarding housing is described on this page on the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.
Heroes 12-7-24 (12/7/2024)

In Gardner, Heroes are Everywhere – Gardner PD Honors 2 of them

Gardner PD posted, “Detective Starzynski, Officer Webb, and Officer Neufell had the pleasure to meet Chase and Ryder. These two worked hard, raised money, and decided to put their money together to make bags for the homeless and those in need. The bags consisted of snacks, toiletries, clothes, and other items to help get people through this cold holiday season. The Gardner Police Department can’t thank Chase and Ryder enough for their hard work and thoughtfulness.”

In honor of these and other Gardner Heroes, “Gardner Heroes are Everywhere”, CLICK HERE.

Active Gardner PD Community Involvement

The Gardner Police Department is actively and positively involved and engaged in the community. This link is to 7 pages of articles we have done over the past few years in which the Gardner PD shows up in news stories. CLICK HERE. You can do your own custom search as well at the top of the home page.
Hotline 12-7-24 (12/7/2024)

WGAW Has Busy Hotline Radio Show on December 7, 2024

Host Steve Wendell spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about some Holiday events. Mayor Nicholson confirmed that the City does not know of a specific location of a new homeless shelter, but has heard of Facebook posts. The Mayor explained the role of the Commonwealth of MA and the City of Gardner with respect to homeless shelters. Listen to the entire program on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline 12-7-24

Other segments included: Gardner Museum Festival of Trees with Scott Huntoon — Werner Poegel Commentary on Pearl Harbor 12-7-41 and “Peace Through Strength” — Wendell Warning re possible Homeless Shelter scam —- Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas and the work of subcommittees —- ABC Report on Pearl Harbor — clip of FDR speech to Congress regarding attack —- Highlights of Gardner Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring Patti Bergstrom, Santa Claus, song “Oh Christmas Tree” and Santa reciting “Twas the Night Before Christmas”, and highlights of Templeton Town Meeting on Waste Plastics Incineration Moratorium.
Templeton 12-5-24 (12/6/2024)

Templeton Citizens Act on 3 articles – Waste Plastics – Senior Center Project – Solid Waste

The Town of Templeton held a Special Town Meeting on December 5, 2024 that was attended by hundreds of residents. Concerns over possible Waste Plastics Incineration were discussed during the first part of the meeting. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Town Meeting 12-5-24

View the Special Town Meeting Warrant, CLICK HERE.

Meeting Results: Article 1: Enact a 1 year Moratorium on Waste Plastics Incineration within Templeton – YES, passed unanimously. Article 2: Transfer $175,000 from Capital Stabilization Account for Senior Center Project – YES, APPROVED. Article 3: Bylaw Amendment to Solid Waste Management – YES, and will take effect after approval from Massachusetts Attorney General’s office.
Update 12-6-24 (12/6/2024)

Holiday Season Underway in Gardner and the Mayor has plenty to say in Update to City

Gardner Mayor Nicholson provided an uplifting look at Holiday themes and events in Gardner during the update of December 6, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 12-6-24

Invitation to view decorations: As he did his update from the Gardner City Hall Rotunda, the Mayor invited all to stop by and check it out at City Hall, the Rotunda, and Perry Auditorium. The Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force has been setting up white and purple Christmas Trees to raise awareness of resources. Another tree in the Rotunda is dedicated to all veterans stationed at various places around the globe.

View the numerous events mentioned in the update in the list below.

Numerous Events: Gardner Square Two 23rd Annual Memorial Lights campaign continues and helps pay for the Christmas lights decorating the various trees at Monument Park, Lafayette Square, and even the wreaths put on the Victorian light posts. —- The Mayor thanked those who participated in the recent Tree Lighting —- The Sound of Music is currently running at the Mount — Final day of the Gardner Museum Festival of Trees is December 7th. —- The Senior Center Christmas Party and Christmas Concert will take place on Monday, December 9th from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. —-Escort for the Wreaths Across America on their stop here in Gardner on their way to Arlington Cemetery. 5:30pm, Monday December 9th at MWCC. —- The Gardner Middle School Band Concert is going to be taking place on Tuesday, December 10th at 6 p.m. —- The Gardner Middle School Chorus Concert is going to take place on Thursday, December 12th at 6 p.m. —- Gardner Elementary School PTO a showing of the Polar Express at Gardner Cinemas. Tuesday, December 17th at 6 p.m. —- Gardner High School Winter Concert Wednesday, December 18th at 7 p.m. —-Library is doing a Pajama Storytime with Santa Claus Wednesday, December 18th from 6 to 6 45 p.m. —- Gardner CAC accepting donations of unwrapped Christmas gifts for children, non-perishable food donations, and clothing items with a special need for winter coats.
Wreaths 12-13-24 (12/6/2024)

Wreaths Across America Honoring Veterans at Cemetery in Winchendon

On Friday, December 13, 2024 at 9am, the laying of Remembrance wreaths will occur at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon. The ceremony includes saying the name of each and every veteran aloud.

Parking Changes This Year

According to the website, “For the safety of volunteers and staff, there will be no parking available at the cemetery on Friday, December 13th. All volunteers are welcome and encouraged to park at the Winchendon Community Park located at 88 Ingleside Rd. in Winchendon as well as the American Legion Post 193 located at 295 School St. in Winchendon. Shuttle buses will be available to transport volunteers to and from the cemetery. Handicap accessible transportation will be provided as well. Thank you for your support of this great program.”

Convoy Stop in Gardner

A large convoy of over 50 vehicles has been traveling from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery and has a planned stop at Mount Wachusett Community College on Monday, December 9th with a ceremony beginning at 5:30pm. Some wreaths will be dropped off to be used at the laying of the wreaths December 13th in Winchendon.

Convoy Stop in Gardner December 9, 2024
Public Safety 12-6-24 (12/6/2024)

Public Safety Meeting Reveals Number of Auto Dealers in Gardner

Gardner may only have one dealer in NEW vehicles, but it has over a dozen businesses who sell vehicles in the City to include: (Website Link is included where available) AC Auto Clinic, 411 Parker Street —- Brian’s Auto Sales, 549 West Broadway —- Blake Motors, 412 Main Street —- Gardner Auto Mart Inc., 182 West Street —- Gardner Motors, LLC, 119 Pearson Boulevard —- JPJ Automotive, LLC, 78 East Broadway —- Mike’s Auto, 251 East Broadway —- Osagi Enterprise, LLC, 43 Tobey Street —- Ric’s Radiator Repair Used Car Sales, 800 West Broadway —- Riverside Auto, 65 Riverside Road —- Salvadore Chevrolet, 421 West Broadway and 249 Timpany Boulevard —- TJ & Sons Auto Sales, 537 West Broadway —- J. Wood Inc. 361 West Street. Others: Gardner Five Star Motor Sales

Some of the dealers sell numerous vehicles. Others sell a small number. All have their licenses reviewed on an annual basis. Deputy Chief Nicholas Maroni was on hand at this particular meeting to answer any questions and to report on any issues with any of the establishments. If we inadvertently left anyone out, please let us know and we’ll add to this article. Listen to the Public Safety meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Safety 12-6-24
WGAW 12-7 (12/5/2024)

WGAW Plans Excellent Show for Saturday December 7, 2024

Gardner’s WGAW Radio is the home of the HIT interview show, “Hotline Radio” which airs every Saturday beginning at noon. Show runs until 2pm. It is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and is streamed to anywhere in the world. 24/7 stream, CLICK HERE.

Hotline Radio has been hosted by Steve Wendell for years and features local newsmakers such as Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, candidates for office, non-profit representatives, public safety officials, and other exciting guests on many subjects. WGAW maintains an archive of Hotline shows, CLICK HERE.

Our original song page features the WGAW Hotline Radio Barbershop Quartet song, CLICK HERE to go directly to the song.
Wish for Peace (12/4/2024)

Christmas Wish for Peace Song Released

18 versions available at our original songs page. We hope one version moves you, captures your heart, and inspires you to share the quest for peace with others. Visit this song, CLICK HERE.

May you find Peace this Christmas season and throughout the year…
Council 12-2-24 (12/3/2024)

Publisher’s Note: In this meeting, taxpayers learn about a loan paid off in full 3 years early, a crane which lasted 53 years, lease agreements coming to fruition at Waterford, a Mayor spending the time to update ordinances, a Council President spending the time to update Council rules, and confirmation that Gardner’s beloved Rachael Roberts will be around another couple years at least. A day to be proud of the Chair City.

Agendas and Packet: Finance City Council

City Finances, Ordinances, and Rules Subject of Finance Committee and City Council Meeting

The Finance Committee of the Gardner City Council met prior to the regular December 2, 2024 meeting. Good news from Mayor Nicholson: More FREE cash available. Lease agreement ready with Growing Places at Waterford Community Center. Lease agreement ready with Gardner CAC for Waterford Community Center. Parking meter fees proposed to be waived for month of December.

Fiscal Responsibility Showcased

Great Fiscal news: Mayor proactively asking City Council to completely pay off the remaining $356k principal of original $550k loan for Waterford and proactively asking City Council to set up a revolving account for Waterford to easily track money in and out.

Bad news from DPW: They need $100k for a new $129k crane. However, the current one is 53 years old so the City of Gardner got it’s money’s worth. Dane Arnold explains further and states DPW found $29 k from another account to go towards the tab.

Listen to the Finance Committee Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 12-2-24

The Finance Committee recommended approval by the full City Council.

Gardner City Council met and approved the Finance Committee recommendations. So, parking at the meters is FREE in Downtown for the month of December. Waterford loan is to be paid off 3 years early. Dane Arnold DPW gets its badly needed crane. Updated ordinances which the Mayor spent so much time revising and revising again were approved. Updated rules of the City Council credited to hard work by Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas were approved. (City Councilors had helped too on both) Listen to the City Council meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY

City Council 12-2-24

Other good news: Mayor Nicholson communicated that Gardner favorite Rachel Roberts has been appointed again to serve as Executive Secretary until January 1, 2026
Mobile Home Fire (12/2/2024)

Gardner Fire Department Battles Mobile Home Fire

While no injuries were reported, the RV sustained tens of thousands of dollars in damage and is a total loss.

Gardner Firefighters responded to a fuel fed fire in a motor home across from 164 Manca Drive on December 1, 2024. Group 4 was the on-duty shift.

The owners and their pet dog were not in the RV at the time of the fire and reportedly obtained temporary housing through the American Red Cross.
Lighting 2024 (12/1/2024)

Gardner Kicks off Christmas Season with Music, Merriment, and Lights

Gardner Magazine’s Collage of Photos is due to the picture and video taking efforts of Gardner’s Queen of Fun Patti Bergstrom and Merry Mayor Michael Nicholson who were both on hand with scores of people on Sunday, December, 2024.

Mayor Nicholson posted, “It’s officially Christmas Time in the City – with the lights all on in Monument Park, Lafayette Square, Downtown, City Hall, and in South Gardner.” Listen to the song “Officially Christmas in Gardner” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Officially Christmas in Gardner – Lyrics by Werner Poegel, Music and Vocals via AI

Festivities began at 4pm at Gardner City Hall with Music and Caroling. A parade brought event goers to Monument Park where there was more music and Santa Claus recited “The Night Before Christmas”. Triple T Family Farm provided FREE carriage rides to those attending. Gardner High Band and Gardner Middle School Chorus delighted the crowd.

Mayor Nicholson posted that carriage rides will be back during a horse drawn carriage Christmas Light Tour of the Downtown on December 19th from 4-6pm. Cost: FREE.

Gardner Magazine has a special “A Chair City Christmas” page with 31 versions of an original tune. CLICK HERE.

Merry Mayor Mike Nicholson and Queen of Fun Patti Bergstrom
Crisis Intervention (11/30/2024)

CIT also supports police departments in Central Massachusetts in establishing their own CIT teams, comprising trained officers who collaborate with local providers. This week-long program is an innovative training model designed to equip first responders with crisis intervention skills.

Gardner PD in another Proactive Effort to Assist Individuals with Mental Health and Substance Disorders

Area police departments including the Gardner PD took part in Open Sky’s Week-long Crisis Intervention Training. Training covered suicide prevention, mental illness, runaway assistance, intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, homelessness and officer self-care

Gardner PD posted, “The Gardner Police Department extends its gratitude to the CIT staff, Open Sky, and all the guest speakers who shared their experiences and expertise throughout the week. Your contributions were greatly appreciated. (Sorry about the picture, the projector should have been turned off)“
Gardner Engine 2 (11/30/2024)

Gardner Fire Department Reveals Engine 2 – Sutphen Heavy Duty Custom Pumper

There’s nothing like a beautiful new fire truck! This machine has a wheelbase of 180 inches, a travel height of just under 10 feet, and a travel length of more than 30 feet. It has a Heavy-Duty Custom Chassis, a 56 inch extended cab which can hold 4 firefighters and has a 10 inch raised roof. The engine is 450 horsepower. There’s a 1000 gallon water tank and a 30 gallon foam tank. Design sheet is below. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.
Mike Rock Opera (11/30/2024)

Explanation: Lyrics are original. Music and Vocals generated by very sophisticated AI. Enjoy whatever version is to your liking.

EDITIORIAL SPECIAL: Gardner Magazine with a “Rock Opera” on Mike the Champion

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has paid his dues and taken some abuse along the way. He’s made a few mistakes, but his willingness to think outside of the box has helped to propel Gardner forward. Nevertheless, he’s endured ridiculous made-up lies from some of Gardner’s Rogue elements via Social Media and otherwise. Being right 99% of the time has made Mayor Mike a champion of Gardner’s success. In 4 1/2 years, the City’s Chief Executive and his Team have spruced up the City via municipal, State, and Federal funding; precipitated revitalization of Downtown Buildings by private investors, taken abandoned City-owned buildings and put them back on the tax rolls, and worked to strengthen Gardner’s fiscal posture, all while welcoming new businesses and residents. The following “Rock Opera” is both a recognition and a thank you for the achievements, and a repudiation of the few naysayers who don’t appreciate the enormity of the turnaround. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

ROCK OPERA –Mike the Champion

FOLK – Mike the Champion

GYPSY JAZZ – Mike the Champion

DREAM POP – Duet – Mike the Champion
Hotline 11-30-24 (11/30/2024)

WGAW Hotline Show with Split Themes Hour 1: Holidays, and Hour 2: Various Reports

WGAW Hotline Host Steve Wendell runs down some Holiday Events. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson speaks about Holiday events in Gardner including the Holiday Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 1st which starts with lining up at Gardner City Hall at 4pm. MVOC’s Stephanie Marchetti speaks about a Holiday Gift Award and on help for veterans. Listen to the show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 11-30-24

Library Director Stephanie Young reported on the Levi Heywood Memorial Library. Werner Poegel reported on Presidents of the United States since 1885. M.L. Altobelli from Good Earth Farm and Garden Center gave a comprehensive report on Tree Health in an interview with host Steve Wendell.

Hotline Radio is heard every Saturday from noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1FM and on the 24/7 LIVE STREAM.
GAAMHA Trees (11/29/2024)

The Joy of a Christmas Tree Found at the GAAMHA Lot on Route 140

For the 2nd year in a row, GAAMHA is operating a popular Christmas Tree Lot at the farm on Route 140. With attractive trees, easy parking, and cordial help and assistance, GAAMHA says it’s the Number 1 Christmas Tree lot in the area. Proceeds benefit GAAMHA programs. Gardner Magazine says it’s fit for a song called “A GAAMHA Christmas Tree” Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

JAZZ – DO Wop Version

POP Version

Christmas Tree prices range from $30 for a 3 to 4 foot tree all the way up to $90 for an 8 to 9 foot tree with various prices for other sizes in the middle. The Lot is open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: Thursdays and Fridays from 3 pm to 7 pm and 8 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

GAAMHA is also selling some unique Christmas Tree Ornaments and has a Horse Calendar available.
GFD Ban Lifted (11/29/2024)

GFD Lifts Outdoor Open Fire Ban, Reminds of GFD Cooking-Camp Fire Policy and Outdoor Brush and Yard Debris Prohibition

Gardner Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy’s Press Release states “Due to the recent transition to a more normal, seasonal weather pattern, the open fire ban is lifted” Lifting of ban applies ONLY to contained fires for cooking, recreational, ornamental, or camping purposes. Lagoy reminded that the open brush burning season only runs annually from January 15^th through May 1^st, and only by permit even during that time. “All residents are also asked to continue to use caution with any type of open fire. The risk, while now significantly lowered, is never at zero.”

Complete Press Release of November 29, 2024, CLICK HERE.

Cooking/Camp Fire Policy, CLICK HERE.

Not in Gardner? Check with your local community Fire Department for current information.
Conservation 11-25-24 (11/27/2024)

Conservation Commission Discusses Gardner Landfill Topics

DPW Director Dane Arnold came to the meeting and addressed some concerns relating to erosion and contamination.

DPW took action after receiving a complaint of erosion issues at the landfill. A small amount of sediment was noticed to have been deposited in the Wetland beyond the fence and that the fence has fallen over some. DPW mitigated the issue and put up some new fence. DPW also coordinated with Conservation Agent Justin Enright who did a site visit. Arnold explained DPW’s efforts in detail. DPW visits the site about once a month and after a significant rain event. Dane noted that the storm water system was built in 1984 and thus is not up to current. Conservation Commission Chairman Greg Dumas requested DPW maintenance logs going forward or where Justin can access them.

Dane Arnold speaks towards the beginning of the meeting. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

A resident had questions for Dane Arnold relating to what else could be done and the Director stated he had some ideas. Dumas suggested maybe they sketch something up with Rob and maybe have Justin do a site visit. An abutting resident had concerns about what is discharging from that site including a dioxane leak, mentioning that dioxane had shown up in testing of nearby wells. The resident is concerned about possible carcinogens. A lengthy discussion ensued and the Conservation Commission will bring up the issue again at the next meeting.
Dane Arnold 11-22-24 (11/26/2024)

Gardner DPW Director Dane Arnold gave a complete update to the Public Service Committee. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Dane Arnold 11-22-24

DPW Director Dane Arnold Updates City on Paving, Projects, Equipment, and Staffing

Director Arnold stated “2024 Paving is Done” and spoke about various streets. The spring list is being compiled. Initial planning will include $273,000 which was recently approved by the City Council and whatever Chapter 90 funds come in from the State. The City is applying for grant money to fund the paving of streets which intersect the new Uptown Rotary and need paving.

Dane Arnold spoke about a rather large need coming up. “We are going to be going up to bid for the leachate pump station, which is located down in the sanitary landfill down off of West Street. That pump station takes flow from the sanitary landfill and the sludge landfill. That has been designed, and we’re ready to go up to bid. I believe it’s vintage 1980 pump station. It’s on the brink, so we’re going to go up to bid. We’re estimating it’s going to be around $800,000. So I’m going to be going to the council to ask for not only the construction costs, but also a company to oversee the construction of the project itself. So they’ll be asking the council that probably within the next month.”

Other DPW needs include funds to replace aging equipment. Current annual repair costs are high. Director Arnold detailed various pieces of equipment which he has eyed for future replacement when funds are available.

Staffing Considerations

Overtime is frozen right now except for emergencies. “So we are filling some vacancies. The union just updated their contract. Both unions, they have signed an understanding and an agreement. We are starting to fill some vacancies. I believe I’m down five employees right now on the city side, which includes two mechanics. We are starting to fill the equipment. However, I’m going to stop filling. I’ll hire a mechanic, but I’m going to stop hiring any additional staff because the contract is going to cost the city quite a bit of money. And I don’t want to have to be facing layoffs at the end of the year. I’ve frozen overtime. So we’re not doing overtime unless there’s an emergency or we have to do certain things. Like we have to go put up wreaths. So it’s easier to do when there’s no traffic. So we do that at night.”
The Grants (11/26/2024)

How Gardner Turned $1 into $266.67 – 75,000 Times

It was a simple request at the time and eventually $75,000 was spent on a 3^rd party grant writer to supplement in-house efforts. A few were skeptical and then the unthinkable happened. Gardner got back $20 million in grant funds, some 266 times the investment.

Now the City is ready for Round 2, equipped with up to $100,000 to do it again. Last time the pitch was, just one successful grant will more than cover it. This time the pitch was, look at the results.

We recently spoke with Gardner Mayor Nicholson about the subject. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Nicholson on Grants

The City of Gardner has an almost $80 million annual budget. Saving $20 million through grants in an amount which represents about 1/4 of the property tax bill of each Gardner property owner is a significant amount.

Publisher’s Note: A Rogue Social Media Knucklehead actually suggested that the City of Gardner should be investigated for wrongdoing by the U.S. Justice Department for approving the $100,000. We suggest the following: If the knucklehead doesn’t appreciate saving thousands in potential taxes, then he could easily write a check to the City of Gardner in whatever amount of donation to relieve guilt. Otherwise we say, sit back and be thankful you have local officials who are looking out for the taxpayers every single day and managed to save them $20,000,000 with just one good decision. Millions more in grants have been written in-house by elected officials and City employees for both municipal needs and School Department needs. An effort to be congratulated…. We send applause.
Golf 11-25-24 (11/26/2024)

Gardner Golf Commission Meets Before Thanksgiving

The Gardner Golf Commission Met on November 25, 2024. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Discussion revolved around the success of this year and some plans for next season. Current surplus at this time is about $227,000 with approximately 50 new members this year and a roster of just under 800. This year is winding down, but they are starting to work on the Golf Course schedule for next year for golf course events.

The Golf Course is also in the process of ordering an AED and planning for staff training on the device once the machine comes in. The device “kind of mirrors what the Fire Department has.”
Compassionate Call (11/26/2024)

Compassionate Call 11-22-24

We also have AUDIO of the entire meeting available here. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Public Service Committee Balances Consistency with Compassion with distraught Property Owner

The Gardner Public Service Committee has the responsibility of ruling on water and sewer abatement requests. Out- of- town Property Owner Terri owns a 4 unit property on Chelsea Street and got an unexpected large water bill due to usage from a leaking toilet. Bill was $3000 . The members of the committee listened to Terri who attended via a telephone call. Dane Arnold informed the committee that usually the only resolution would be a payment plan. Other councilors informed that the committee had to be consistent. The interaction was difficult and the committee members handled the issue with compassion and came up with a creative solution. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Compassionate Call 11-22-24

Typical bill has been 550-900. This bill was $3000. Tenant notified landlord and landlord had plumber fix the leak. Normally, no abatement is available because the water was still used. Caller was very emotional, stating that she was having trouble paying the mortgage as some tenants have not been paying her the rent. It was explained to the caller that the City can’t control the tenant piece. However, the committee ended up taking off $500 out of compassion and then allowing the remainder of $2500 to be paid over 12 months at $208 per month, starting in January. Interest was also waived. A case of consistency balanced with care and compassion.
Kamuda Art (11/25/2024)

Gardner Artist Opens Gallery to All for Special Event

Renowned Local Artist and Photographer Carolyn Kamuda is having a 6 hour event at her Kamuda Gallery on Pleasant Street in Gardner on Black Friday November 29th from noon to 6pm.

Area residents looking for a unique Christmas gift will find small canvas paintings priced from $10 to $50 each and all are on sale that day at 30% off. If you can’t make it Friday, Kamuda is also opening Saturday, November 30th from 10am to 1pm.

Kamuda is reportedly retired. However, from looking at her picture, Gardner Magazine could find no evidence of aging. When you see Carolyn, ask her what her secret is. For more information, visit her Facebook page, CLICK HERE
Greater Gardner 11-25-24 (11/25/2024)

News Around the Greater Gardner MA area

Winchendon: 3 finalists for Winchendon Superintendent position include: current interim Superintendent Dr. Marc Gosselin, Dr. Greg Rosenthal of Douglas Public Schools, and Mark McLaughlin of South Hadley Public Schools. Next step: School Committee will make its selection.

Westminster: Recent Town Meeting Results – Articles 1,2,3,4,,5, and 6 YES Articles 9 and 10 regarding TIF: NO. Article 11: NO and Voters passed over article 12. Previous article with details, CLICK HERE.

Ashburnham: Equipment options for the new Winchester Park Playground will be previewed at a presentation by consultants M.E. O’Brien and Sons, Inc. on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 6:30pm at Overlook Middle School, 2^nd Floor Team Room, 10 Oakmont Drive, Ashburnham. A question and answer session will follow the presentation. —– Toys for Tots donations will be accepted through December 6^th at the DPW and Town Hall. —- The Select Board will hold a tax classification hearing on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Training Room at the Public Safety Building. The purpose of the hearing is to inform taxpayers and interested persons of the choices open to the Select Board in setting a single tax rate for all real estate and personal property, or two tax rates, one for residential and open space and one for commercial, industrial and personal property. Members of the Board of Assessors will be present to explain the options available in choosing the classification. The public is welcome to attend.

Templeton: A special town meeting is scheduled for December 6, 2024 at 6pm at the Narragansett Middle School Auditorium. Here is the complete town meeting warrant, CLICK HERE. The Town of Templeton has a construction schedule update, CLICK for DETAILS. The Digital Equity Plan comment period ends on December 6^th. View a pdf of the plan, CLICK HERE.

Phillipston: The Phillipston Lions have started a soup kitchen. Next Soup Kitchen is Wednesday, December 11^th at the Phillipston Church on the common. For details, CLICK HERE. —- The Ladies Benevolent Society is sponsoring a Holly Berry Fair on December 10, 2024 from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Phillipston Congregational Church. Highlights are: Christmas Vendors, Ladies Benevolent Society Raffle Table, Lion’s Lunch – Soup & Sandwiches Dessert, Cookie Walk Table, Come take a picture with Santa, Pets Welcome! Bring your camera!

Holiday Happenings (11/25/2024)

Holiday Happenings abound in the Greater Gardner MA area. Holiday Tree Lighting in Gardner is Sunday December 1st.

Holiday Happenings in the Greater Gardner MA area

Thanksgiving Week Events

Date	Event Details
Thurs. Nov. 28th	Macy’s Parade – Gardnerites- Em Shouse, Olivia Charette, Alexia Minkin, Ellen Brooks, and Jonathan Hastings – will be with the UMass Minuteman Marching Band at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Parade Details from Macy’s CLICK HERE.
Thurs. Nov. 28th	51st Annual Turkey Bowl Narragansett Warriors take on the Murdock Blue Devils for the 51st Annual Turkey Bowl at 10am. For those who can’t attend in person here’s the live stream link, CLICK HERE.
Sat. Nov. 30th	Small Business Saturday Holiday Market is happening November 30th from 10-4pm at the Gardner PACC, “Dozens of local makers and artisans,” More Details…
Sun. Dec. 1st	Gardner Tree Lighting – Meet at City Hall and Stroll to Monument Park at 4:30pm. Led by GHS Band and GMS Music. And Santa. Refreshments for sale by Holy Family Academy MA and Boys Scouts. Carriage rides and caroling Details from Gardner Square Two, CLICK HERE.
Sun. Dec. 1st	Pictures with Santa 10am to noon at the GAAMHA Christmas Tree Lot on Route 140, Gardner. Christmas Tree Sales and Meet the Ponies. Register, CLICK HERE.
Sun. Dec. 1st	Templeton Holiday Tree Lighting at the Templeton Common Park from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 pm Complete details from Town of Templeton, CLICK HERE.

Following Week:

Date	Event Details
Thurs. Dec. 5th	Tree Decorating Party -Westminster Parks and Recreation Department plans to host a tree-decorating party from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Academy Hill Gazebo.
Fri. Dec. 6th	12th annual Ashburnham Tree Lighting and Santa Parade – 5:30 pm at the Town Hall Common, Santa Parade at 5:45 pm Tree will be lit at 6 pm Complete details from Town of Ashburnham, CLICK HERE
Sat. Dec. 7th	Winchendon Festival of Lights and Holiday Fair The annual Holiday Fair features Breakfast with Santa, a Holiday Craft Fair, Hot Cocoa with Santa & Mrs. Claus, crafting activities, letters to Santa, Pictures with Santa, Caroling and a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Grout Park at the Old Murdock Senior Center from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m More from Town of Winchendon, CLICK HERE
Sun. Dec. 8th	Westminster Tree Lighting starts at 5 pm at the Academy Hill Gazebo. Fire Pit with s’mores and hot cocoa. Westminster Elementary School chorus with caroling at 5:30 pm. Pictures with Santa at 6pm. More in the South Street Sentinel on pdf, CLICK HERE.

Pinocchio Paul (11/24/2024)

Pinocchio Paul is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER which bears no resemblance to any person, living or dead.

Editorial – The Tale of Pinocchio Paul – He knows it’s false, he has actual malice.

Perhaps you know an individual like this: A man who accuses almost anyone of anything knowing it is false. A man who makes statements with actual malice towards many in the community. A man who has targeted public officials including the Mayor, the City Council, the Police and Fire Departments, and employees of the City. A man who knows he is lying, but does it anyway. A man who targets Non-profits with false statements. A man who states false things about individuals. A man who silences dissent. A man who makes up the foulest stuff just because he thinks he can. REALITY CHECK: If there is such a man, the law will eventually catch up with him. FREE SPEECH doesn’t cover it when you know it is false. FREE SPEECH doesn’t cover it when you have actual malice towards someone. FREE SPEECH assumes purity of thought, not EVIL INTENT. Is there an individual in Gardner like this? I hope not.
November Shopping (11/24/2024)

Upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday Brings Shoppers to Gardner MA Stores

Hannaford, Price Chopper, Walmart, and Aldi were busy in Gardner this week as households prepared for Thanksgiving.

Thursday, November 28, 2024 is Thanksgiving. Friday, November 29th is Black Friday. Saturday November 30th is Small Business Saturday.
Hotline 11-23-24 (11/23/2024)

News was Flowing out of the Radio on the WGAW Hotline Show just before Thanksgiving

WGAW Host Steve Wendell had a jam-packed program on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor Michael Nicholson with an Update, Civil Defense Director Paul Topolski on the continued Fire Danger, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas on Council Rules and other matters, Commentary with Werner Poegel who has a dream about cleaning closets at the White House, Scott Huntoon on the Festival of Trees at the Gardner Museum, and Stephanie Marchetti from the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center on the various programs for veterans.
Fire Risk (11/22/2024)

Despite Brief Rain – Fire Risk Remains in Greater Gardner MA

Area Fire Departments have been busy in the month of November with various brush fires in Greater Gardner MA area towns. Pictured is a collage of several of those incidents. Recent rain will not prevent dangerous conditions to return in a couple of days of sun and high winds. Outdoor burning of any kind is still banned in the region.

Gardner Magazine obtained the following statement from Gardner Fire Chief Greg Lagoy, “I concur that the rainfall from this recent storm, while greatly beneficial, will not alleviate the high brush fire risk conditions. The dry conditions will quickly return after a day or two of sun and high winds (which is exactly what the forecast is calling for). We really need several similar rain events to lower the risk level.”

The Chief continued, “The outdoor fire ban will continue for the foreseeable future. State officials, including State Fire Marshal Jon Davine and Chief State Forest Fire Warden Dave Celino, are meeting daily to monitor conditions, re-evaluate the situation, and give advice to local fire departments. My advice to residents is to continue to be aware of the risks and cautious with their actions. Please continue to report any violations of the outdoor fire ban to your 911 Dispatch center, firefighters will respond and extinguish unauthorized fires and educate the residents.“

Update 11-22-24 (11/22/2024)

Gardner Mayor Nicholson with a Holiday-Themed Update

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updated the Chair City on November 22, 2024. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Update 11-22-24

UPDATE: in the Mayor’s Update, the wrong date is given for the wrapping station at the library. The correct date is Saturday December 21st from 10am to noon.

Mayor Nicholson opened the update congratulating Gardnerites who are marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this coming week.

The Mayor spoke about a letter which went out to offer guidance to people who might have lead in their private pipes. Mayor Nicholson stated “there is no lead in Gardner’s water” Report available on the City of Gardner website.

Square Two 23rd Annual Fund Drive for our Memorial Lights is underway. A wonderful opportunity to make a contribution to honor family members and friends, or show your holiday spirit and community pride. The forms for this are at Gardner City Hall, John’s Sport Shop, and The Velvet Goose.

19th Annual Festival of Trees is taking place at the Gardner Museum until Saturday, December 7th. Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4, Fridays 1 to 7, Saturdays and Sundays 10 to 4 p.m.

Date	Event Description
Saturday 11-23-24	Special Thanksgiving Farmers Market 10am to 1pm at Perry Auditorium – rear of Gardner City Hall – Everything from vegetables, produce, turkeys, knick-knacks, little crafts…
Saturday 11-23-24	First annual Fill a Cruiser food drive event this year in support of the Gardner CAC. Gardner Police Department at 200 Main Street on Saturday, November 23rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Holiday Hours	City Hall is going to be closing at noon Wednesday November 27th. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Friday November 29th.
Saturday 11-30-24	Small Business Saturday, nationally recognized on Saturday, November 30th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday 12-1-24	Holiday Stroll and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 1st, from 4 p.m. to about 6 p.m. Meeting first at the front steps of Gardner City Hall, where the Gardner High School Wildcat Marching Band will be playing some selections.
Saturday 12-21-24	Saturday, December 21st, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., there’s a wrapping station at the Gardner Library for all ages, co-sponsored by the Gardner High School Leo Club.

ZBA 11-19-24 (11/22/2024)

ZBA hears both a Special Permit request and a Variance for a single family

The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals met on November 19, 2024 to hear two matters. Listen to the meeting on any device.

Zoning 11-19-24

75 Oak Street: Change a 2 family to a 3 family dwelling – Attorney Christine Tree requested a continuance to the January meeting and discussed various issues with the Board.

68 Acadia Road: Build a Single family ranch on an existing lot. An engineer representing the property owner spoke about various issues including a concern re lack of clarity from the Conservation Commission. However, Conservation Agent Justin Enright was on hand and suggested the matter could be discussed with Conservation at a December meeting. Matter was continued with the ZBA.
Drought 11-21-24 (11/21/2024)

Rain was welcomed in Greater Gardner as the area has suffered from drought. It is unclear whether the current predicted rainy weather will be sufficient to change the Drought designation after the 2nd driest October since the late 1800’s.

Greater Gardner MA in Severe Drought – Winter May Be More Normal

The Greater Gardner MA area is considered to be in Severe Drought at this time, along with a total of 49% of Worcester County. 51% of Worcester County is experiencing even worse conditions with a designation of Extreme Drought. Streamflow conditions are Low (Red) or Much Below (Dark red) Yellow indicates Below, Green is Normal, and there’s one near Worcester which is Above.

This is a time to conserve water and to be extremely careful with anything flammable. Various area fire departments have been responding to fires throughout the region. Drought.gov notes that October 2024 was the 2^nd driest October on record over the past 130 years with 2.68 inches of precipitation less than normal. However, because of much higher precipitation earlier in the year, 2024 is so far the 44^th wettest year to date over the past 130 years. (January to October 2024 had 3.09 inches of precipitation more than normal) It has been a year of extremes.

Winter Weather Outlook

NOAA – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting above normal temperatures in December through January 2024 for Massachusetts. Precipitation is expected to return to normal at some point according to the NOAA map. For more info, visit NOAA, CLICK HERE.
Odyssey – First Responders (11/21/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases – Odyssey of First Responders

The Odyssey of First Responders is a song running 26 minutes and 21 seconds as a thank you and salute to first responders. The Odyssey incorporates various musical genres including the Blues for the Men and Women in Blue, Jazz for Firefighters with Pizzazz, Rock for the EMT’s who Rock, Country for DPW – Public Works, K-Pop for Lifeguards, and Patriotic for the Military. Complete page including individual songs and album covers.

Original Lyrics of the song were written by Werner Poegel. Music and Vocals were rendered by very sophisticated AI.

Download for your friends. Send across the country to salute First Responders anywhere. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Odyssey of First Responders

Thank you First Responders. You mean everything to us. May God keep you all safe and thank you all for your service.
City Council 11-18-24 (11/20/2024)

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

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

Informal City Council 11-20-24

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

City Council 11-18-24

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

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

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

Cost of parking at meters in Gardner will be 50 cents per half hour. According to Mayor Nicholson, enforcement begins in January 2025.
Nicholson Interview 11-20-24 (11/20/2024)

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead

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

Road Ahead – Nicholson Interview 11-20-24

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

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

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

The Road Ahead – And literally at the end of the interview, Mayor Nicholson was on the road to meet with an investor interested in Gardner. Gardner Magazine will update you if there’s more good news to share down the road.
The Clerk (11/20/2024)

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

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

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

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

Note: Bruce Chester is still on Social Media even today complaining about Gardner Magazine’s reporting prior to the election. We stand by our articles as they accurately reflected actual AUDIO of what Chester said and accurately showed actual State documents re various campaign issues.
Coleman Legal (11/20/2024)

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

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

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

Gardner Magazine reached out to Olivia Coleman for further comment and she stated, “It’s open to anyone that has been a victim of their that would like to purse legal action. If someone has been a victim, they can reach out to me and I’ll start a running list. Depending on how many there are, we may look into in a group suit rather than individual…Funds will paid directly to the atty that is selected to handle the case(s).”
Parking 50 cents (11/18/2024)

Cost of Metered Parking to Double in Downtown Gardner

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

Public Safety 11-15-24

Plan is to have both cash and app options to pay for parking. Note that Downtown Gardner does have a number of FREE parking locations available such as in back of City Hall and right across from the Gardner Ale House. The Rear Main Street Project will also add parking and the Mayor is proposing a parking garage at the site of the West Street Parking Lot.
Westminster Meeting (11/18/2024)

Reflection on Wyman’s Pond Westminter

Westminster Town Hall

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

Westminster: Special Town Meeting November 19th

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

Town Meeting Warrant pdf, CLICK HERE.

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

Information sheet on T.I.F. (Tax Incremental Financing)
Hotline 11-16-24 (11/16/2024)

News from Hotline Radio November 16, 2024

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

Hotline Radio 11-16-24

At the beginning of the show, Mayor Nicholson describes his notification from the City Clerk that Bruce Chester was planning to submit papers for a recount, thus prompting him to request $45,000 to cover the cost from the City Council – however, according to the Mayor, Chester did not submit any papers by the 5pm deadline and thus a recount will not be held. Council President Kazinskas spoke of items on the agenda. The other part of the program featured the recent Veterans Day Ceremony.
Fill-A-Cruiser (11/16/2024)

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

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

The Gardner PD wrote: “We are excited to announce that we will be hosting our first annual Fill-A-Cruiser food drive event this year in support of the Gardner CAC and Gardner Senior Center! Help us kick off the holiday season by filling a cruiser with non-perishable food items, hygiene products and necessities for members in our community. Join us in front of the Gardner Police Department at 200 Main St. on Saturday, November 23 from 9:00AM-1:00PM. We are appreciative of the continued support from our community and look forward to seeing you there!
Fire Towers (11/16/2024)

Fire Danger Very Serious in Greater Gardner MA

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

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

FIRE DANGER
Recount 2024 (11/15/2024)

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

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

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

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

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

Original Unofficial Results from all Gardner Precincts

Finance 11-14-24 (11/15/2024)

Finance Committee has Honor of Hearing from Assistant Director Evan Cudmore

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

Finance Committee 11-14-24

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

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

Updates Provided to the Finance Committee by Evan Cudmore on 11-14-24
Rear Main Street Phase 2 North: The $3.64 million project is under construction right now Rear Main Street Phase 2 South: The $3.5 million housing works grant was recently awarded to the City. Bike trail, nature trail construction is continuing. The layout of the trail and the sub-base material is complete. The crossings are installed, and the contractor is working on finalizing the agreements with New England Power. The pathway should be complete this year, and landscaping is to be complete in the spring. Maki Park ADA Compliance Solutions: The Building Commissioner is reviewing 2 options for ADA compliance submitted by the City’s engineering firm. One option is $30,000, the other is $50,000. Funding may come from some CDBG projects which came in under budget. Potential New Industrial Park: City’s Engineering firm of Hudson O’Neill is currently developing concept plans for a potential build-out of proposed site based on wetlands and topographic data. Once complete, market analysis will be developed, and the location of land is south of Route 140 from Route 101 to Mathew Street. City would have to purchase the land. Currently Gardner has the Gardner Industrial Park, the North Gardner Industrial Park, and the Suffolk Industrial Park. This would be adding a 4th one. 16 Lot Subdivision being considered by Planning Board. See separate article. Public hearing is continued to the next meeting on December 10th. Greenwood Indoor Pool Building Demolition: Contractor has completed the site survey. The lake delineation testing and the hazardous materials testing is complete. Contractor is working on finishing the sketches for the plan and hopes to have that done by the end of the year. And then given the swim season in mind, demolition will be done probably late winter, early spring at most. 205-213 Main Street (Old Rome Building) Demolition across from Police Station: Bids were opened on November 13th. Awaiting Awarding of bid. Target time for demolition is mid to late December. Later, grant funding would be sought to improve the intersection itself. *Listen to the meeting for even more information.*

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

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

Public Welfare 11-14-24 (11/15/2024)

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

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

Public Welfare Committee 11-14-24

Outgoing Library Director Stephanie Young spoke for more than 20 minutes regarding the various programs and matters involving the library, noting that participants in programs has increased from hundreds to the thousands in the past year. —- The Golf Course has increased to almost 800 members this year and the finances look good. — Tim Josti of GETV spoke about the various programs being recorded for the City and some upgrades he would like to make both in services and personnel hours. All 3 updates were very positive and deserve a listen.
Planning Board 11-14-24 (11/14/2024)

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

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

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

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

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

This meeting is a great example of showing the complexities involved in this endeavor as many of the plans are shown. For those wishing to see more plan specifics, we recommend viewing the video from youtube, CLICK HERE.
School Committee 11-12-24 (11/13/2024)

School Committee Meets – Achievements Recognized

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

School Committee 11-12-24

Complete Meeting Packet and Agenda, CLICK HERE.
The Closet (11/13/2024)

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

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

In the Closet – Kamala, Don, and Joe

Packing boxes. What could go wrong?

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

There are 13 Episodes of Joe and Don Fictional Theater, CLICK HERE for the page.
Festival Trees 2024 (11/11/2024)

Gardner MA Museum Festival of Trees Set to Begin

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

Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays 1pm to 4pm, Fridays 1pm to 7pm, Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 4pm. The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner. Due to the Uptown Rotary Project, the parking spaces in front of the building are more visible . There is also a small parking lot to the rear of the building with a handicapped entrance.

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

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

Photo Gallery from 2023, click here.
Veterans Ceremony 2024 (11/11/2024)

Veterans Honored with Ceremony in Gardner MA

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

Veterans Day 11-11-24
Original Music (11/11/2024)

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

Gardner Magazine Presents – Original Music

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

Chair City Christmas has a separate page, CLICK HERE.
Wooden Flags (11/11/2024)

Patriotism and Love for Veterans Is Alive at Gardner High School

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

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

Happy Veterans Day
Rockin’ Council (11/10/2024)

“Rock Stars” of Gardner City Council Inspire Rock Song

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

Rockin’ the Gardner City Council
Downtown 11-9-24 (11/9/2024)

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

The building is home to Empire Management, Gardner Coins and Cards, and Garden Pizza. The outside look of the building was enhanced earlier this year, and now the front facing and additional side facing signs complete the look. Empire Management also purchased the Bank of America Building. New tenants including a potential new restaurant are expected there in the coming months.
Progress 11-8-24 (11/9/2024)

Visual Rear Main Street Update

The Rear Main Street Project has many months to go before completion. Here’s a visual progress report from November 8, 2024.
Hotline 11-9-24 (11/9/2024)

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

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

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

Hotline Radio 11-9-24
Roof 11-9-24 (11/9/2024)

Gardner Fire Department Roof Project Well Underway

A gust of wind damaged the roof. A camera captured that gust. Insurance covered the repair. The roof is under repair at the Gardner Fire Department Headquarters.
Waterford Lease Signed (11/9/2024)

Waterford Community Center Lease Signed with Gardner CAC

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

Waterford CAC Lease Signing

The City of Gardner is expected to announce additional tenants in the coming months. Earlier in the year, Governor Healey signed a bill passed unanimously by the Legislature authorizing the site for general municipal use. It was previously called the Waterford Street School. According to previous statements of Mayor Michael Nicholson, while Waterford Community Center is the current official name, the final name has yet to be decided.
Update 11-8-24 (11/8/2024)

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

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

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson With a weekly update and FIRE ADVISORY

Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 11-8-24

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

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

Advisory: Effective immediately due to extreme weather conditions, any and all types of outdoor open fires are prohibited in the city of Gardner. All forms of open flame, including for the purposes of cooking, recreational, or ornamental fires are banned until further notice. This includes fires associated with fire pits, chimneys, and outdoor fireplaces. Also the burning of brush and other yard debris is prohibited at this time. All residents are also asked to use extreme caution when disposing of smoking materials, ensure that they are fully extinguished prior to disposing of them, and only use non-combustible containers to dispose of those smoking materials.
Election Editorial (11/7/2024)

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

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

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

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

On Jonathan Zlotnik

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

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

On Bruce Chester

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

While Chester claims to teach ethics, according to the state of MA, Chester exudes the exact opposite given his ongoing scrutiny and multiple troubling audits by the Office of Campaign Finance. In my opinion, Bruce Chester was by far the weaker candidate. And now, rather than gracefully accepting his loss by about 4 points, some of his more radical supporters are claiming Gardner election fraud, thus attacking the character of the dozens of good people who make elections work in the Chair City. As recounts very rarely change the vote total dramatically, it simply seems like the actions of a sore loser.
Fire 11-7-24 (11/7/2024)

Extreme Fire Hazard Persists in Greater Gardner Area

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

Drought Map of Massachusetts on 11-7-24

Gardner and surrounding communities are shown to be in moderate drought while Worcester is shown to be in extreme drought.
Veterans Day 2024 (11/7/2024)

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

Veterans Day 2024 is Monday November 11^th

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

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

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

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

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

Ashburnham: Prior to Veterans Day on Thursday, November 7^th, the Stevens Memorial Library hosts a discussion about the significance of national service from 6:30 to 7:30pm. From the library website, “Please join us for a discussion of the importance and impact of national service. A panel of Ashburnham veterans will talk about their experiences in uniform and how their service shaped their lives. The panel will be hosted by Brigadier General (retired) Paul “Greg” Smith, who will also offer readings from his recently published book, “Confessions of a Weekend Warrior: 35 Years in the National Guard.” Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing (A portion of the proceeds will benefit Montachusett Veterans’ Outreach, Inc.)”
Trump Elected (11/6/2024)

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

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

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

Trump Victory Speech 11-6-24

Election Results 2024 (11/5/2024)

Final Electoral Map 2024

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

Trump Elected 47th President

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

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

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

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

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

Council 11-4-24 (11/5/2024)

Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE.

Gardner City Council Meets on Monday Before Election

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

City Council 11-4-24

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

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

At the end of the meeting Councilor Brooks explained the voting procedures at polling places in Gardner. Councilor Mack reminded residents that there is an Open Fire Ban in place because of dry conditions.
Election Song (11/5/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases original song “Election Day”

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

Election Day – Soft Rock

POP – Male

POP – Female – Greatest Equation

COUNTRY – Male

COUNTRY – Female

Gardner Magazine will provide Election Day results from Federal, State, and local races when available.
Fire Danger (11/4/2024)

All Open Fires BANNED in Gardner due to Extreme Weather Conditions

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

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

COMPLETE PRESS RELEASE CLICK HERE.
Help Animals (11/4/2024)

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

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

Donations can be in the form of wet and dry cat or dog food, pet toys, used or new towels, Dawn dish detergent, plus dog and cat treats. Sheets and pillows can’t be accepted. Open food or treats can’t be accepted. For more information including contact info and pet adoption info, CLICK HERE
Cormier Honored (11/4/2024)

Gardner PD Sergeant Honored for Leadership Training

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

According to the Gardner PD, “The two-week course covered topics of Leadership Principles, Interpersonal Communication, Discipline, Conflict Management, Problem Solving, Community Engagement and Liability. Congratulations Sgt. Cormier!“
Fire 11-3-24 (11/4/2024)

Gardner Fire Department Extinguishes Car Fire on Mill Street

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

Check Alarms

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

Alarms not requiring you to change batteries are an increasingly popular option with Smoke Alarms going for just over 20 dollars and Smoke – Carbon Monoxide detectors at well under 50 dollars. Something easy to buy at Walmart, Amazon, Home Depot and other retailers.
Chester Questions (11/3/2024)

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

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

Additional Questions Emerge Regarding Candidate Bruce Chester

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

Treasurer Signature Situation

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

Various Audits and Issues

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

Campaign Contributions and Expenditures

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

Claims of Various Chester Occupations

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

False and Inaccurate Posts re Jonathan Zlotnik

Zlotnik has been the subject of false and/or inaccurate attacks on a Rogue Gardner Facebook Group suggesting in some posts that he is in favor of taxes. In just one counter example, Jonathan Zlotnik is known to be spearheading an effort to eliminate the inventory tax for businesses in an effort to lower taxes. Under current law, it is hard for a company to take advantage of a lower price on a quantity of raw product needed in manufacturing because the excess inventory would be subject to tax. The Zlotnik bill would help in 2 ways. 1. Eliminate a tax Zlotnik feels is unfair. 2. Reduce the manufacturing cost for businessses. We refer you to our recent interview for more information on Zlotnik’s actual record, CLICK HERE.
Hotline 11-2-24 (11/2/2024)

WGAW Hotline Pre-Election Show

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

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

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

CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

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

This is the Election Commentary by Publisher Werner Poegel contained in the WGAW Hotline Show. Detailed Analysis of Red, Blue, and States within 5 points, and a history of the past 40 years. CLICK PLAY.
Safety 11-1-24 (11/1/2024)

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

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

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

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

Public Safety 11-1-24
Update 11-1-24 (11/1/2024)

Gardner Mayor Nicholson with first update of November 2024 and last before Election

Gardner Mayor Nicholson opened with a description of various project announcements which we cover in separate articles on this page. The Mayor also went over polling locations in detail for the election on November 5^th. Polls open 7am to 8pm. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 11-1-24

MART announced a new partnership with Woods Ambulance and their Swift Ride Woods Plus program to extend bus services in Gardner from where it right now ends at 6 p.m. all the way to midnight. You can take a evening bus ride for a cost of $10. You can get anywhere in the city up until midnight. (978) 400-9338. MART bus rides continue to be free for at least the next year.

Daylight Savings Time ends this weekend. Set your clocks back Saturday night.

“Gardner Square 2 is pleased to announce its 23rd round of the annual Memorial Lights Drive. Donation is $10 per light.That helps cover the cost of all of the different Christmas lights in the different parks, Monument Park, Lafayette Square…”
Finance 10-30-24 (10/31/2024)

Pictured: Councilors Dernalowicz, Kazinskas, and Mack – Auditor John Richard and HR Director Amanda Morse, Veterans Agent Cory Hasselmann and Mayor Michael Nicholson

Gardner MA Auditor Reveals Dispute with Blue Cross – Blue Shield involving $920k

During the Finance Committee meeting of October 30, 2024, Gardner MA City Auditor John Richard went over various matters and disclosed a dispute with Blue Cross – Blue Shield over a $920,000 payment saying that the City can prove payment, but Blue Cross won’t budge. Gardner Magazine reached out to Blue Cross Media contact Amy McHugh and left a voicemail explaining that the City of Gardner online checkbook shows the payment for all to see and maybe they should take a look and apologize to the City. Kelsey Pearse returned our call and explained they did in fact see that the payment was made, would be discussing the matter in-house, and would send me an email when she could confirm the matter had been resolved. Listen to the portion of the Finance Committee meeting during which the matter was discussed on any device. CLICK PLAY.

John Richard Re Blue Cross

In other matters, HR Director Amanda Morse updated the Finance Committee on various things she is doing including updating job descriptions to more accurately reflect the work actually performed.

Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier spoke to the Committee about the desire to get Council authorization to enter into certain 5 year contracts to economically benefit the City.

Veterans Agent Cory Hasselmann updated the Finance Comittee regarding the participation of veterans in a tax workoff program.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke first about free cash and the possibility of that increasing by about a half million dollars and the status of Enterprise Accounts.

Listen to the full Finance Committee Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 10-30-24
Water Groundbreaking (10/30/2024)

Gardner Breaks Ground on Water Main Project

Gardner Officials and members of the DPW and Gardner’s Engineering Teams were on hand for the official groundbreaking on the Water Main Project. The current pipe is from 1888, some 136 years ago. Mayor Nicholson thanked DPW Business Manager Chris Coughlin who authored the successful $1million dollar Federal grant application.

Other speakers included State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas.

Listen to the remarks made on October 30, 2024 on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Water Main 10-30-24
Liver Awareness (10/30/2024)

Susan Avallone and Dr. Molakatalla speak on Liver Health Awareness Month

Gardner’s Prevention Coordinator Veronika Patty had both Avallone and Molakatalla as guests during a segment aired on a local Gardner cable show. Listen to the AUDIO on any device, CLICK PLAY.

GCAT – Liver Awareness

SAVE A LIFE – READ THIS ARTICLE and LISTEN TO THE PROGRAM!

Gardner Magazine is grateful to both for providing us with valuable information to help save lives in our coverage area with the following written by Dr. Phani Molakatala and RN Susan Avalione.

Do You Know About Fatty Liver Disease? Here’s What You Need to Know

Did you know that 4.5 million adults in the U.S. are living with known liver disease? That’s about 1 in 50 Americans. Liver disease is actually the 9th leading cause of death; but many people don’t feel symptoms right away. As a result, liver diseases kill about 33,000 Americans by causing cancer, each year. One major concern is Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), which affects an estimated 80-100 million Americans—though only a few have been diagnosed. The newer term for this condition is MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease). October is National Liver Awareness Month, and we want to help you understand the importance of liver health. The liver is our largest internal organ and plays a crucial role in keeping our body healthy. It helps break down nutrients from food, stores energy, filters toxins, helps with blood clotting, and fights infections. Unfortunately, while doing all this important work, the liver can be exposed to a variety of harmful substances and diseases. Fatty liver disease or MASLD is often caused by excess body weight, diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol/lipid levels. Although it’s more common in adults, it’s becoming increasingly prevalent among children and teenagers. In fact, it’s now the most common liver disease in children in the U.S., and its rate has more than doubled in the past 20 years. In severe cases, fatty liver disease can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver, a condition known as cirrhosis. This process can take decades, and symptoms typically do not appear until it’s too late. Once the liver fails, a transplant may be the only option, and the number of liver transplants needed for liver failure is comparable to those for hepatitis C.

The good news is that early diagnosis can help reverse fatty liver disease, even if there is some scarring. Testing options include blood tests, special ultrasounds or MRI scans, and sometimes a liver biopsy. Once diagnosed, lifestyle changes are crucial. This includes gradually losing weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables (Mediterranean diet being one option), reducing processed carbohydrate intake, and exercising regularly. Medications may also be an option in certain cases. The key takeaway is that liver disease can affect anyone, even those who drink little or no alcohol. Many people don’t show symptoms; so getting screened is vital. Please talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis is essential to create an individualized treatment plan and prevent serious complications like liver failure. For more information on liver health, prevention, and resources, visit the American Liver Foundation’s website, CLICK HERE. American Liver Foundation . You can also take a simple liver health quiz, to see if you’re at risk and learn what steps to take next CLICK HERE. by visiting .Take control of your liver health today—your future self will thank you!

-Susan Avallone, MSN, RN, NCSN-E and Phani Molakatalla MD MPH, Gastroenterology physician
Announcement 10-28-24 (10/28/2024)

Gardner Magazine is publishing text of all comments in their entirety.

Announcement 10-28-24

Phase 3 Zone

Formal Phase 3 Announcement for Rear Main Street Project

Representative Jonathan Zlotnik announced the $3.5 million State Grant last week in a Press Release. On October 28^th it was a big event with local leaders, officials, and business leaders all praising Zlotnik’s extraordinary effort in collaboration with others in the City. According to a separate statement by Director of Development and Planning Trevor Beauregard, “These funds will allow the City to complete the public sector infrastructure improvements to support the private sector housing project along Derby Drive, which is the last phase of a $20 plus million public / private partnership in the Rear Main Corridor” A formal announcement and comments on the project was held on Monday October 28, 2024. Given the magnitude of this project for Gardner, we are publishing the entire text of all the comments as well as the AUDIO which you can hear on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Announcement 10-28-24

“Take this spot that’s been vacant and run down in the city for almost two decades now and bring new life back to an area here in Gardner.”

Mayor Nicholson stated, “Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you for joining us on this virtual grant announcement. Very exciting for us here in Gardner. If you’ve been watching the mayor’s updates or seeing the videos and the news that we’ve been putting out here in Gardner lately, you saw that last week we broke ground on phase two of Gardner’s Rear Main Street revitalization project. That included a 100-plus spot parking lot, event plaza, food truck court, water feature, and a lot more over on Rear Main Street and Derby Drive, just behind places that are familiar to us here in Gardner, like John’s Sports Shop, the Velvet Goose, Priscilla Candy, right by Levi Heywood Memorial Library. We’re here today to announce that we’re continuing that progress here in Gardner and announcing that Gardner has recently been awarded $3.5 million from the Commonwealth Housing Works grant program for us to continue that process so that we can go from that smokestack on Rear Main Street all the way to behind the Gardner Police Department, Cumberland Farms, Diamond Heart Art Studios, and finish that out there, too. We know it’ll be some type of residential structure with some more parking, some green spaces, and really take this spot that’s been vacant and run down in the city for almost two decades now and bring new life back to an area here in Gardner. So you’re going to hear from several people today who are going to be related to that project, have some type of involvement in that project, or will benefit directly from that. So I’d like to hand it off right now to our State Representative, Jonathan Zlotnick.”

“It’s great to be back on this site twice in two weeks to announce the next phase of this. And another big grant, you said $3.5 million, which I want to point out is one of the biggest awards the state made through the One Stop program this year, right here, making this important investment in Gardner.”

Jonathan Zlotnik stated, “Thank you, Mr. Mayor. It’s great to be back on this site twice in two weeks to announce the next phase of this. And another big grant, you said $3.5 million, which I want to point out is one of the biggest awards the state made through the One Stop program this year, right here, making this important investment in Gardner. And like the Mayor said, this is something that we’ve been at for many years, but this is an important piece towards the revitalization and redevelopment of downtown Gardner. I don’t think I’m going on much of a limb to say that when this is done, with the units of housing that this is going to add, the event space, the parking, that this is really going to be transformative for the city of Gardner in better utilizing this space in what we call Rear Main Street along Derby Drive, which was put in by another state grant that we announced on this spot many years ago. So I’m very happy to have been a partner in this project for many years, through several rounds of grants. And that’s the important part. Everyone you’re going to hear speak from today, and some people who couldn’t join us today, a project as big as this over as many years as this has taken doesn’t get done and isn’t a success unless every single person along the way, when it comes their turn, does their job and does so successfully, whether that’s myself, the Mayor, the City Council, the City Council President, the GRA, and the private sector, as well as the City’s Economic Development Department. Everybody has to do their job to make something like this happen. So I’m very proud and happy to have played a part in that, and I look forward, just like we were on the other end, breaking ground over there, to be back here soon enough, breaking ground on this phase of the project. So thank you. And I’d like to introduce another important person in making this all possible, through her leadership of the City Council, the City Council President, Elizabeth Kasinskas.”

“I want to thank Rep Zlotnik for his huge role in this, as well as everyone who’s put a piece of it together, and also here joining me today, my fellow city councilors, Brad Heglin, Alek Dernalowicz, and Paul Tassone, and on behalf of the City Council, I just want to say how excited we are…”

Elizabeth Kazinskas stated, “Good afternoon, everyone, it is wonderful to be here today. Again, I echo a lot of what the Rep had said about being here, back in rear Main Street, second time in just a couple of weeks, to make another exciting announcement. The City Council’s piece of all of these types of grants, typically to do a matching piece of it, it’s been several years where rear Main Street continues to be developed, and this is pretty monumental, as it’s phase three of this three-phase project, that now, since we have the funding, we can move forward and complete it. What we do at the City Council level is we review funding that we need to match these kinds of grants, and it’s significantly less than usually what the overall state contribution is, but it’s a huge part when it comes to what we have in the city to give and to distribute. And so when we put our piece into it, and the city side, and then we get rewarded on the state side or federal side, at times, for these kinds of grants to continue this type of development, it just, again, shows that you have to go hand-in-hand, you have to do your part, and it becomes more desirable to award us this money because we do our part on the city side, and we work to do the things we need to do to develop it, but we would not be able to do this by any means in the amount of time that we have and the scope that we have if we didn’t have our state partners, and I want to thank Rep Zlotnik for his huge role in this, as well as everyone who’s put a piece of it together, and also here joining me today, my fellow city councilors, Brad Heglin, Alek Dernalowicz, and Paul Tassone, and on behalf of the City Council, I just want to say how excited we are to be here today to celebrate this and to see what’s moving forward at the next groundbreaking and the ribbon cuttings and all the celebration down the road, but as many years as this takes to develop, there’s even more years ahead of us, so the city’s going to be able to enjoy it, and it’s going to be something really special for Gardner. It is my pleasure to introduce a fellow city councilor, but also the chair of the GRA, Paul Tassone.”

Paul Tassone stated, “How exciting is this? $3.5 million for the revitalization of this downtown area, from the smokestack to City Hall to the Gateway. I was here when we first broke ground for the Gateway to downtown Gardner, the city. $3.5 million, and from a GRA perspective, we worked behind the scenes acquiring and working with the city to ensure that we could make this project viable, so on behalf of the Gardner Redevelopment Authority, I’d like to thank Rep Zlotnick and Mayor Nicholson for their due diligence to help us get this award for $3.5 million, so thank you very much, and now I will introduce Patti Bergstrom.”

“How exciting is this?“

“Thank you Jon, and to all of the good people that help and work together to make this city as fabulous as it is, I’m really excited about this.”

Patti Bergstrom stated, “What a fabulous day in the city that we love. It is so exciting for me, who has been downtown for 37 years, to watch this project happening, because when I joined in 1987, the Rear Main Street was a project that was just talked about. We have all the elements that we need to make our downtown and our city even more successful and more fabulous. Housing is important down here, parking is very important, new businesses like Diamond Heart Studio, old businesses like the Paramount, John’s Sports Shop, Priscilla’s Candy, they’ve been here nine decades, six decades, eight decades, and I’ve been here almost four decades, and to have a fabulous mayor, a supportive city councilor, a state rep who makes our dreams come true, thank you Jon, and to all of the good people that help and work together to make this city as fabulous as it is, I’m really excited about this. Now, on a personal note, could I say that, I did announce my retirement last week, but I want you to know that even though I may be retiring, I am the self-appointed CFO of Gardner now, Chief Fun Officer, and I plan to use this event space and all that’s going on in our city to make it even more fabulous, so thank you. Oh, was I supposed to introduce? Sorry. The next speaker are Sean and Nancy Bray, who are also the newest downtown business, and we’re so excited to have them, and talk about fun. These people wrote the book on fun and are teaching us all.”

Sean and Nancy Bray stated, “ Hi. So we’re Sean and Nancy Bray. We own Diamond Hearts Art Studio, which is… Right there. The back of the studio will be to the back of this completed project. We are super excited to have so many more residents in Gardner, and so much more opportunity to have fun and new friends. When the mayor was asking us about, did we want to open our business in downtown Gardner, one of the things that sold us was he was talking about this exact project and how much vitality it was going to bring to the Main Street area, the behind Main Street area, and it sold us. We just got very excited. We can’t wait to meet all of our new neighbors. If Gardner is as welcoming to them as it has been to us, they’re going to love living in Gardner. Thank you. Mr. Mayor.”

“The housing crisis that’s facing Massachusetts is no stranger to us here in Gardner, so being able to work towards finding some type of a solution for that by the apartment building that’s going to be here and adding new residential space to Gardner. This, with phase two, almost doubling the amount of parking that we have in the downtown.”

Mayor Nicholson closed with these remarks, “ I think you’ve seen the excitement that’s here around this project, and it’s true that this has been happening for quite some time. Patty mentioned that in the 1980s this was an idea, but this used to be an old factory site. In 2006, this started to enter into our urban renewal plans. In 2015, we had the new road funding approved by MassWorks to purchase the property that was there. The road was built in 2018, and we had the ribbon-cutting for that ceremony actually in this park. I remember that because I was just hired in the mayor’s office in a staff position at the time, and that was one of the first things that I got assigned was making this a ribbon-cutting spot for the brand new road that was there. That, hopefully, later on the road, something happened, literally down the road. Here we are about to launch into the final phase of this project and getting this going. The housing crisis that’s facing Massachusetts is no stranger to us here in Gardner, so being able to work towards finding some type of a solution for that by the apartment building that’s going to be here and adding new residential space to Gardner. This, with phase two, almost doubling the amount of parking that we have in the downtown to face the concerns that several businesses who are looking out to the area who want to know, am I going to be able to survive here? Where are my customers going to park? Now we’ve got an answer to that question. While it may not be the final answer, we’re getting there because we continue to invest in our community, and we continue to move Gardner forward. I want to thank the people on my team, our community development director, Trevor Beauregard and his staff in our community development project, who unfortunately weren’t able to be here today due to other scheduling conflicts, the members of the Gardner Redevelopment Authority, Paul Tassone and Magnus Carlberg, who are here with us today, the City Council, State Representative Jonathan Zlotnick, who’s been an integral part in this project alone, let alone all the other projects happening around Gardner, and making sure that we continue to work as a team to really make us stronger for a better future for us here in Gardner. And that’s exactly what this project’s doing, and I look forward to seeing the benefits that this brings, and we’ll see you at the groundbreaking for this part of the project in the very near future. Thank you all very much for tuning in and joining. If you have any questions, you can contact my office at any time, and we look forward to getting this going. Thank you very much.”
Chair City Christmas (10/27/2024)

Gardner Magazine Releases an Original Christmas Song

Publisher Werner Poegel wrote “A Chair City Christmas” to share what is truly special about the City of Gardner at Christmas. There are 3 versions: Traditional, Soft-Rock, and Country EZ below and other 15 versions on the Chair City Christmas page.. Listen on any device and/or download. There are a total of 18 different versions across various genres. Go to the “A Chair City Christmas” page, CLICK HERE.

A Chair City Christmas – Traditional

A Chair City Christmas – Soft Rock

A Chair City Christmas – Country, EZ

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.
Factory Demo (10/26/2024)

The Adventures of an Abandoned Factory – What the Future Holds

73 Stuart Street: It was abandoned for decades and was an eyesore. Then along came Mayor Michael Nicholson and his Gardner Team who have made an effort to get properties like this back on the tax rolls. The initial Request for Bids went out with a minimum of just $1 and was quickly corrected to reflect the City Council’s approval for a minimum bid of $17,000 to cover back taxes owned by the previous owner.

One bidder made the minimum bid, but due to a number of factors, the bid went no further and the City retained the property.

A storm caused part of the building to collapse on a neighboring lot prompting the City of Gardner to proceed with demolition which had to take in to account asbestos on the site. When completely cleaned up, the property will be sold as a vacant lot. Minimum bid would be approved by the Gardner City Council. Mayor Nicholson has stated he would request a figure corresponding to the value of the land. (currently assessed at 73,800 according to Gardner property records.)

Gardner Magazine will let you know when the bid process is active and then perhaps your new adventure can begin where X once marked the spot.
Hotline 10-26-24 (10/26/2024)

Officials and Candidates on WGAW Hotline Radio of October 26, 2024

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

WGAW Hotline Radio 10-26-24

Hour 1: Mayor Michael Nicholson on Good news and some events in Gardner —- Dawn Casavant of Heywood Healthcare 12^th annual Healthy Harvest 5k Walk —– Jonathan Zlotnik on successful grant announcements and stable state budget local aid lottery revenue Expects housing to continue being on the legislative agenda as a top priority. Zlotnik also speaks on other legislative priorities.—-

Hour 2: City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas speaks on the collaboration which has led to the funding of the 3 phases of the Rear Main Street Project —– “When you do it and stick with it, you’re rewarded for it.”—- Werner Poegel with a report on Bruce Chester in His Own Words —- ABC Report on Fraud in the Election Cycle
Red Flag 10-26-24 (10/26/2024)

Dry Conditions Prompt Red Flag Warning

A Red Flag Warning is in Effect in the state of Massachusetts for Saturday October 26, 2024.

From the National Weather Service:

..RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 AM THIS MORNING TO 7 PM EDT THIS EVENING FOR MASSACHUSETTS… * AFFECTED AREA…All of Massachusetts east of the Berkshires. * TIMING…From 8 AM this morning to 7 PM EDT this evening. * WINDS…West 5 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 38 percent. * TEMPERATURES…Up to 63. * IMPACTS…Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. Any fires that start may spread rapidly and become difficult to extinguish.
Update 10-25-24 (10/25/2024)

For all the information, listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 10-25-24

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with an Update for the Chair City

Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 10-25-24

Outreach: Mayor Nicholson spoke of hosting about 100 people this past week including Mayors and Town Administrators from across Massachusetts during an event held at the PACC.

Ongoing: Early Voting continues through this next week in Perry Auditorium.

Events: Heywood Hospital Community Health Fair and Vendor Sale Saturday October 26th from 9am to 1pm at the Heywood Hospital main parking lot. – Heywood Healthy Harvest 5k too. ==== Gardner Trick or Treat is Halloween October 31st from 5 to 7pm —- Dinosaur Tea Party on Saturday November 9th at 11am at Levi-Heywood Memorial Library —- Gardner Festival of Trees begins November 13th at the Gardner Museum —-Thanksgiving Gardner Farmer’s Market at Perry Auditorium Saturday November 23rd from 10am to 1pm —-
Rear Main Construction (10/25/2024)

Rear Main Street Phase 2 Construction Has Begun

Temporary construction fencing has enclosed the site. A couple pieces of construction equipment can be seen operating. The Rear Main Street Project Construction has begun. Completion of this phase is expected in 2025. With funding now approved for the next phase, see article, in a few short years this portion of Downtown Gardner will be transformed. Groundbreaking article, CLICK HERE.
One Stop 2024 (10/24/2024)

Representative Jonathan Zlotnik announced state funded grants for the greater Gardner area. The grants were awarded as part of the Executive Office of Economic Development’s Community One Stop for Growth program, which streamlines the application process for communities and other eligible entities seeking to access various economic development grant programs. In the FY25 round of Community One Stop for Growth awards, three recipients in the 2nd Worcester District are receiving important grant funding.

Gardner, Winchendon and Templeton “One Stop for Growth” Awards Announced by Jonathan Zlotnik

These state funded grants were announced on October 24, 2024. Gardner is benefitting from the new Housing Works Grant Program rolled out for Fiscal Year 2025 in the amount of $3,500,000, the Gardner Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center’s Winchendon project will receive $876,717 under the Underutilized Properties Program and Templeton gets $290,000 under the Rural Development Fund.

Details of Each of the Grants

The City of Gardner received $3,500,000
under the Housing Works Grant Program. The funding will be used to continue the North project, which will transform a vacant area into a vibrant public space by making public improvements to the water/sewer and drainage infrastructure along with associated parking to support a private development 45-unit multi-family market rate residential project.

The Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center (MVOC) received $876,717 under the Underutilized Properties Program. The funding will be used to support the redevelopment of the Streeter and Poland Schools in the Town of Winchendon into housing for veterans by supporting construction, demolition, elevator and steel work at the site.

The Town of Templeton received $290,000 under the Rural Development Fund. The funding will be used to fund all engineering costs related to the rehabilitation of Templeton’s Barre Road. The project consists of the design and permitting phase of the rehabilitation of nearly 4 miles of public roadway in poor and failure condition and also aims to support Barre Road’s residents, adjacent conservation lands, and farms and small businesses by maintaining public infrastructure and continuing the goals of RPAC in the process.
Zoning 10-22-24 (10/24/2024)

Link to City of Gardner Zoning page, CLICK HERE,

Agenda for October 22, 2024, CLICK HERE

Pine Street Project Delay prompts Intensive questioning of Attorney Tree by new member

In the first 54 minutes of over 1 hour meeting:

The Zoning Board of Appeals met with all 5 members on October 22, 2024 to discuss progress with parking at Pine Street. The overall project has been with the board for over a year. Resolution: Signed contract by the end of January with a contractor. Project completed by June 16^th. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Initial Problem: A previous contractor put a wall in the wrong place, has to be taken down, and the proper wall built.

Board motion unanimously approved: Extension until January 31^st to get signed contract with contractor. Current lot to have temporary pavement lining. To send communication re options at Heywood Apts. for parking. Project completion by June 16^th. Chairman Raymond Lafond asked for an update via letter prior to the February meeting.

The other matter on the agenda was postponed to another date after speaking with the Realtor who was representing the homeowner.

Gardner Magazine announces our release of the Gardner Zoning Theme Songs. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Zoning Main Theme Song

Gardner Zoning Theme Song 2
Assessors 10-22-24 (10/23/2024)

Exciting Gardner Board of Assessors Meeting on 10-22-24

The Board gets so much done in 5 minutes that they have a new theme song on Gardner Magazine which you’ll hear in the meeting AUDIO “Greatest Board of Assessors in the City”

Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Board of Assessors 10-22-24
Council 10-21-24 (10/22/2024)

City Council Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE.

Edgell Street from Elm to Lawrence Street, CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

City Council says NO to NO Parking on Edgell and Takes Up Agenda

At many a meeting, many of the votes are unanimously YES. However, at the Gardner City Council meeting of October 21, 2024, this vote was different. After a review by a Council sub-committee including hearing from residents and an in-meeting report from Ward 1 Council David Thibeault-Munoz, the Council voted NO to end the No Parking test. Listen to the exchange regarding the agenda item on any device. CLICK PLAY.

segment: City Council 10-21-24

The City Council heard from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who got approval from the City Council to use new revenue to pay down debt. The Mayor also spoke about enrollment figures in Gardner Public Schools. Some of the items in the Mayor’s communications were discussed in a Finance Committee meeting. SEE ARTICLE here. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 10-21-24

At the end of the meeting, there are Councilor Comments and Remarks. Councilor Brooks spoke about election observers. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Councilor Brooks 10-21-24
Velvet Goose 10-21-24 (10/21/2024)

Downtown Queen Patti Bergstrom of the Velvet Goose Is Retiring

Velvet Goose Owner Patti Bergstrom is beginning her retirement sale this week with plans to be out of her store location by the end of January. Bergstrom has operated her store since 1987. Even though she is retiring, new merchandise for the holiday season has arrived so the shopping experience this season will be truly special. We have a special interview for you. At the beginning of the interview is a tease of the Velvet Goose Song. After the interview, you’ll hear the entire Velvet Goose song (written by Werner Poegel as a tribute to a great store and fine lady). After the song, Patti tells her personal story of how she ended up in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Patti Bergstrom – Velvet Goose 10-21-24

The Velvet Goose posted, “The time has come for me to announce that I am planning to retire…This decision comes after a lot of thought, and it is truly bittersweet. I have spent more than 37 years at The Velvet Goose—that is more than half my life. My 3 year lease that I signed in March 1987 turned into my 37 year LOVE STORY!” The retirement sale begins on Wednesday October 23rd and will continue through Christmas.
Fake Social (10/21/2024)

Fake and False News Pervasive on Social Media

Perhaps you’ve seen them – the myriad of false allegations usually made against some very good public officials and sometimes made against this Publisher or other media outlets. Our goal is to not only publish accurate news, but also provide backup documentation such as complete copies of Press Releases and actual AUDIO of meetings, updates, events, and interviews. While we quote a unique circulation of 20,000+, this effort has paid off as the lowest unique circulation in the past year was 25,882 in December 2023. Last month exceeded that by several thousand. AUDIO files have listens in the 1500 to 9000 range per file in a particular month with 100,000 to 150,000 monthly AUDIO file downloads being typically recorded.

Have a news story idea, comment, or have event information to share? Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com .
Chester 10-20-24 (10/20/2024)

Bruce Chester in his own words – voters concerns become apparent

The Graphic shows a communication regarding payments Bruce Chester is/was making regarding having to reimburse his campaign committee from his own paycheck. We prepared a report detailing various Voter concerns relating to various subjects and the details are in Bruce Chester’s own words. Listen and decide the relevance for yourself on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Report – Bruce Chester

Topics include Chester’s knowledge of issues, qualifications, actions, statements, willingness to work with City officials, motivations, and more. Conclusions can be drawn not on opinion, but on Bruce’s Chester’s own words, carefully researched over a 2 day period.
Hotline 10-19-24 (10/19/2024)

WGAW Hotline Radio 10-19-24

Hour 1: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with Updates about the Chair City: Rear Main Street Project will add 125 or more parking spaces, the Bike Path, Business News, Holiday Festivities, the Mayor said the Facebook posting regarding 2000 additional migrants is FALSE. —- Host Steve Wendell Interviews Candidate Bruce Chester who answers various questions but struggles with those about pending legislation and legislation already passed. Chester mentions he would like to get vacant buildings back on the tax rolls to benefit the homeless. Host Wendell asks about the DeMeo disruption at the Rear Main Street ceremony and Chester says he wouldn’t have done that. —- An ABC Report on Kamala Harris Interview.

Hour 2: Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas – Werner Poegel Commentary on Voting – Rear Main Street Revitalization Project Groundbreaking Event with various speakers – Description of Grant Awards with Finance Committee.

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

WGAW Hotline Radio 10-19-24
Foliage 2024 (10/19/2024)

Foliage 2024 in Gardner MA

Photos are from October 15, 2024 in the Lake Wampanoag area, Route 140, Crystal Lake Park, Monument Park, and near Route 140.
Finance 10-16-24 (10/18/2024)

How diligently are they working to get grants for the City? The Mayor stated, “There have been $158 million worth of applications currently pending for the city right now. We’re not going to get half of those, but at least we tried. Maybe we get half, maybe we get three-quarters, maybe we get one of those things. But in the end, we get something more than what we have right now.” Councilor Dernalowicz remarked, “We would have possibly applied for a fraction of that amount and got half of that. So it’s a big difference to get all those applications out there and having someone, whatever group it may be, lobbying for it as well. It’s fantastic.”

Serious Discussion and Light Moments at Finance Committee October Meeting

Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Finance 10-16-24

Serious items such as debt service and new growth were discussed by the Mayor and members. Mayor Nicholson spoke of the revenue from Meals Tax, indicating that during the year, “We’re projected to get around $250,000 meal tax in based on receipts the commonwealth has received from… their statewide sales tax that they do on meals.” However, for planning purposes, the Mayor is only counting on $125,000 of that just to be safe. Total free cash amount is $2.5 million which is right in line with the percentage recommended by the State of MA. Finances regarding the Waterford Community Center were also discussed.

Light moments arrived when the return on the 3rd party grant writers was discussed. It was smiles all around when the Mayor stated, “So for a $75,000 investment between what was first appropriated for CMRTC and what was first appropriated for the Keller Partners contract, to have, you know, spend $75,000, get $20 million back is quite the return on that investment. So I’d like to keep that going..”

These and other matters will be discussed at the City Council meeting on October 21, 2024. Complete 414 page Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE.

“IT’S FANTASTIC” – Councilor Dernalowicz
Rear Phase 2 (10/18/2024)

Rendering – Rear Main Street Phase 2 – CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

Rear Main Street Project Breaks Ground on Phase 2

At a ceremony held in Gardner on October 17, 2024 various officials and business leaders gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of Rear Main Street Phase 2. Construction is expected to last at least until the summer of 2025. Official Press Release, CLICK HERE. To listen to the event on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Rear Main Street Groundbreaking 10-17-24

Speakers included Mayor Michael Nicholson who stated, “I’m really happy that we’re able to now celebrate this next milestone in this project.”

State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik stated, “I’m proud to say that this is the second time we’ve been able to deliver a big MassWorks grant to support this project, and maybe, I don’t know, maybe we’ll be back here again soon announcing some more state money to see this project go even further. “

Director of Development and Planning Beauregard provided a history of the project which was conceived in the early 2000’s and part of the Urban Renewal Plan approved in 2011. He explained that the 2000 foot long Derby Drive was built after the property was acquired with a $1.75 million MassWorks grant in 2016. The second MassWorks grant was for $4.1 million. Because design and engineering costs have gone up, the project was divided into a North and South portion. Beauregard stated, “This being a north portion, we put it out to bid probably a few months ago, hired UEL contractors, Construction Dynamics, out of Fitchburg, and yeah, they’re ready to go. They’re out here, and they’ve already started clearing the site and doing the good work. It’s going to be a really transformative project for the City of Gardner, and it’s really exciting for me to be able to be here.”
Early Voting (10/18/2024)

Time for Early Voting – Here’s the Schedule

In Gardner, early voting takes place at Perry Auditorium along the side of Gardner City Hall. Park in front of City Hall or in the designated lot adjacent to the auditorium. Entrances to the parking lot are from Knowlton Street and from Connors Street, directly across from the Binnall House.

It’s important to vote. Here’s a Commentary on Voting by Publisher Werner Poegel. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Voting Commentary
School 10-15-24 (10/18/2024)

Gardner MA School Committee Holds October Meeting

Meeting focused on the first reading of some school policies and the second reading of others. Other topics included the Superintendent Goals, District Improvement Plan, and various updates. See the complete agenda and packet for details and supporting information. CLICK HERE.

Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

School Committee 10-15-24

During the meeting, School Committee member Shannon Ward Leighton spoke for several minutes on Ballot Question 2. Leighton supports the elimination of the MCAS requirement. See our article re Ballot Questions and link to full booklet.

Anne Hurst spoke in favor of the new cellphone policy. The student representative spoke regarding the cellphone policy. Rachael Cormier spoke on the cellphone policy. Robert Swartz urged people to vote. (and inspired our commentary on the subject, CLICK HERE.)

Gardner Mayor Nicholson congratulated the Gardner Wildcats.
The Disruptor (10/17/2024)

Publisher’s Note: While the event was obviously disrupted as documented by the AUDIO we present here, the Mayor graciously diffused the situation in a calm manner. In the state of Massachusetts, the penalty for disrupting a public event in this manner is first offense: a fine of up to $150, second offense: a fine of up to $200,up to six months in jail or both.

The planners of public events obviously can decide who they wish to be in official photos of any portion of the event. While a public official can be photographed in public without expectation of privacy, officials do not have to pose for photos.]

In my opinion, DeMeo is lucky Gardner Mayor Nicholson was as patient in tone as he was. Perhaps that’s why Mayor Nicholson is a successful leader.

Disruptor Identified as Paul DeMeo has a problem at Rear Main Street Groundbreaking Event

The Rear Main Street Groundbreaking Event was held on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 3:30pm. (Gardner Magazine will have a full article on Friday October 18^th) After various speakers, a pre selected group of local leaders was lining up for the ceremonial groundbreaking. Bruce Chester had shown up with a shovel but was told he could not be in the official picture. Paul DeMeo, who has been supporting Chester on a rogue Facebook Group yelled at Mayor Nicholson, stating, “It’s public property!” The Mayor responded, “This is an event that’s set for something else, Paul.” Again, DeMeo yelled, “It’s a public event.” The Mayor responded, “It may be a public event but this is part of the program.” Again, DeMeo stated, “Anybody should be in the photo.” The Mayor responded, “You can take any photo you want when we are done, Paul.” DeMeo spoke again saying “Well, we’re gonna be complaining..” The rest of what DeMeo said is unintelligible in our recording of the event. Listen to the AUDIO on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Disruption at Rear Main Street event

Later in the AUDIO, Bruce Chester is heard asking the Mayor to take a picture with him. Knowing that Chester could use it as a campaign prop and recognizing that Chester had walked in the event with DeMeo, the Mayor is heard saying No. Paul DeMeo objected saying “Why not”, “Mike it’s public property. He could be in the photo.” This publisher asked DeMeo when he “will he stop levying false allegations to the detriment of the City?” and received no response.” Ironically, in a derogatory Facebook post made yesterday, Paul DeMeo wrote, “Another photo op for Nicholson and PLANNED right before the election.….”
Council on Aging 10-24 (10/17/2024)

Gardner Council on Aging Holds October Meeting

The Council on Aging met on various matters in October 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Council on Aging October 2024

Floor Finishing Plan – Plan is to purchase the floor finishing equipment and bring that down to Waterford. Cost: a couple thousand dollars. “Last time we had a contractor come in and do it, it was a couple of thousand dollars to do our floors So our plan now is to do that in- house.” Apparently one job done in-house pays for the equipment.

Gift Fund Balance is $80,836.45 and various budget items among various funds were discussed. Various grants were discussed. Various programs and functions were discussed. Various topics concerning the move to Waterford Community Center were discussed.
Alum Nicholson (10/16/2024)

Gardner Mayor Honored by U-Mass Amherst

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has received the 2024 “Young Alumni Award” from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. It is one of
six different honors were given out this year to recognize members of the UMass Alumni Community on their various outstanding achievements in their professional careers since their time at UMass.

Mayor Nicholson has attributed much of his success to his undergraduate education and stated, “I am truly honored to be named the recipient of this year’s Young Alumni Award… I am who I am today because of the lessons I learned, the experiences I had, and the friendships and connections I made as a student in Amherst. I would like to thank the UMass Alumni Association and Chancellor Reyes for this recognition and Dr. Timothy Anderson, Professor Alexandrina Deschamps, all of my professors, mentors, and friends for the help and support you have provided from my time as a Minuteman to now.”

The Outstanding Young Alumni award is dedicated to an Alumni who has graduated within the past ten years and who has utilized their UMass degree in their professional sector to help change the world for the better. Official Press Release from U-Mass, CLICK HERE.

Why U-Mass Bestowed the Honor

The UMass Amherst Foundation stated the following of Mayor Nicholson, “Throughout his time in office, Nicholson has his sights set on boosting economic development in Gardner, continuing to revitalize the downtown, expanding internet access for all residents, increasing educational opportunities for students, and improving access to public transportation. He is a member of the Governor’s Transportation Funding Taskforce, and the Local Government Advisory Commission, as well as the Chair of the Montachusett Regional Transportation Authority.”
Waterford Fact (10/16/2024)

How do we know bill had no opposition? 1. From the vote itself 2. Bills get posted daily and a legislator could object in advance of a vote. If 10% of House members, or 16 for example would agree to the objection then a roll call vote would be required. While we have no doubt the rants will continue, we hope they will be ignored for the nonsense they’ve been proven to be.

Editorial: Former Councilor Scott Graves Makes Fool of Himself with Waterford Rants

For weeks now, former City Councilor Scott Graves has posted various rants regarding Massachusetts approval of the former Waterford Street School usage change to general municipal use. That approval means the City of Gardner can enter into leases with prospective tenants. Graves says there should have been a 2/3 vote because of other concerns. Well, the bill passed unanimously on a voice vote by both the House and Senate. 2/3 would be 67%, the bill got 100%. That’s more than 2/3, Scott! It had NO opposition so a roll call vote was not required. And prior to the legislation being passed, the bill had undergone careful scrutiny by lawyers at the State House. In my opinion, this is a very clear example of egregiously false information allowed by that rogue Gardner Facebook Group.

The Waterford Community Center is an example of the best of government, coming together for the good of the taxpayers by preserving a building rather letting it fall in disrepair. The good to be done at the Center will benefit Gardner for generations to come.

Next 120 News Stories