Top 100 News Headlines – Gardner News Magazine: Local News & Articles in Gardner MA

Top 100 Gardner MA News Headlines

This Week 4-17-26 - Our Weekly News Magazine: This Week in the Chair City for Friday April 17, 2026 Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY. In this week’s edition: Complete coverage of the announcement by State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik to not seek reelection and the 3 currentContinue Reading
Reilly for State Rep - Ashburnham Resident John Reilly Jr. Announces Run for State Representative John Reilly Jr. had decided to run for State Representative prior to Jonathan Zlotnik’s recent decision not to seek reelection. Reilly registered the domain name, reillyformass.com on March 9, 2026, CLICK HERE and has a Facebook page, CLICK HERE. ReillyContinue Reading
Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis - Watch video right from this page or click to watch in a larger view from YouTube. CLICK on infographic below for a larger, printable letter-size view. Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis – What Insurance Option is best for FY 2027? The City of Gardner is currently self-insured and the bills areContinue Reading
Public Service 4-16-26 - Public Service Committee Reviews DPW, Engineering, and Conservation at April 16th meeting. The committee addressed critical infrastructure updates, budgetary deficits within the Department of Public Works (DPW), and a significant proposed multi-year water rate increase. Key takeaways include a $3,000 full water/sewer abatement due to administrative oversight, a severe $811,000Continue Reading
Boudreau for State Rep - View this Press Release from Nathan Boudreau, CLICK HERE. Former Gardner City Councilor Nathan Boudreau Announces Run for State Representative On April 16, 2026, Nathan Boudreau announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is Boudreau’s statement: “Nathan Boudreau has announced his candidacy for State Representative in the 2nd Worcester District,Continue Reading
Nicholson for State Representative - Links: Nomination Papers – Donate to Campaign –Request a Lawn Sign – Campaign Volunteer Form – Email Sign-up Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Announces Run for State Representative On April 16, 2026, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is the Mayor’s statement: “I am excited toContinue Reading
Planning 4-14-26 - Local Development Projects, Signage Regulations, and Master Plan Subject of Planning Board The City of Gardner Planning Board met on April 14, 2026 and addressed several local development projects and legislative updates. A decision on 0 Emerald Street was postponed due to pending variance approvals regarding property frontage and deckContinue Reading
Officer Spain Honored - Top: Officer Ryan Spain and family. Bottom: Deputy Chief Maroni, Chief McAvene, and Officer Spain. Publisher’s Note: Due to various proactive efforts, the crime rate in Gardner has fallen by almost half in the last 5 years. Officer of the Year Announced at Gardner PD Awards Banquet On Friday, AprilContinue Reading
Zlotnik 4-16-26 - State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik’s tenure has been notable for his work in supporting various initiatives including education, job training, veteran’s housing, and bringing home funding for various projects including the Rear Main Street Project and the Waterford Community Center. Zlotnik also secured helpful funding for Heywood Hospital during their financialContinue Reading
Yard Waste April ’26 - Gardner Magazine is using just a little bit of humor to get out this schedule information. Have fun with your yard work! Transfer Station Availability for Yard Waste Disposal Affected by ongoing Construction The Gardner Health Department put out this advisory to residents of Gardner: “TRANSFER STATION UPDATE: Due toContinue Reading
Finance 4-14-26 - The infographic below provides further detail on the meeting of the Finance Committee, April 14, 2026. Finance Committee Reviews the Numbers and Discusses Proposed NEW Chief of Staff position Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The committee recommended that the full City Council approve a 5Continue Reading
Appointments 4-14-26 - Appointments Committee Reviewed Several Appointment Items Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Appointments Committee meeting held on April 14, 2026, focused on the review of several city board appointments, the clarification of appointment term lengths, and the implementation of new administrative tracking procedures. KeyContinue Reading
License Commission 4-14-26 - Municipal Alcohol Licensing Matters Focus of 7 Minute License Commission Meeting Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Various municipal alcohol licensing matters are addressed. On the agenda: Polish American Citizens Club, Sawa Asian License Transfer, and seasonal license renewals. The Commission expressed frustration over a year-long delayContinue Reading
Gardner Academy 4-15-26 - Principal Bartkus is the principal for Gardner High School and Gardner Academy effective April 14, 2026. Mr. Beauregard and Mr. Baumeister will continue to be the school’s lead teachers. Collaboration with MWCC will be expanded. Students will have more access to mental health and tiered supports. Gardner Academy for LearningContinue Reading
Earth Day 2026 - View our complete Earth Day page with multiple reports, DEEP DIVE and Debate podcasts, a short video, and detailed infographics. For the complete page, CLICK HERE For details on the April 25th Keep Gardner Beautiful Day, visit their Facebook page, CLICK HERE. Earth Day 2026: Gardner Magazine Reports Earth DayContinue Reading
School Committee 4-13-26 - Looming Fiscal Challenges Dominate Discussion at the Gardner School Committee Meeting Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. While there have been significant academic achievements and high accountability ratings at Gardner High School, the district is grappling with a projected $1.5 million budget deficit even after $1Continue Reading
Conservation 4-13-26 - Lengthy Meeting of Conservation Commission Addresses Environmental Violations and Ongoing Projects The Gardner Conservation Commission met on April 13, 2026. Listen to the 1 hour+ meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Sludge Landfill enforcement order, with members deciding to keep theContinue Reading
Golf Commission 4-13-26 - Irrigation Crisis at Gardner Golf Course – Failing Pump House The Gardner Golf Commission met on April 13, 2026 to address a critical irrigation crisis caused by a failing pump house. Officials detailed how corroded metal pipes and a decaying wet well have allowed sediment to block the watering system,Continue Reading
Westminster – Issues and Answers - “Town Meeting 101” Guide incorporated in the Westminster Town Crier Episode 23 Listen to the podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen provides a comprehensive municipal update regarding upcoming community events and local governance. The discussion highlights springtime activities such as the farmers market, town cleanupContinue Reading
Fire 4-11-26 - Gardner Fire Department Provides Mutual Aid to Hubbardston Brush Fire – Highlights High Fire Risk Gardner’s Truck 5, Truck 10, and C1 responded to the Town of Hubbardston on Saturday, April 11, 2026. The firefighters were there to put out a brush fire. GFD posted: “Please use extreme caution whenContinue Reading
MWCC Celebrations 2026 - For a printable letter-size version of above, CLICK HERE to download. Mount Wachusett Community College Releases Year-End Celebration Schedule All events will be held on the Gardner campus at 444 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Details, live streams, and programs will be posted at mwcc.edu/celebrate. The 61st Commencement Ceremonies are MayContinue Reading
Hotline Radio 4-11-26 - Area 4-1-1 on April 11th: WGAW Hotline Radio The WGAW Hotline Radio Show on April 11, 2026 provided listeners with the 4-11 (a play on the date) , details on area goings on. Listen to the entire program on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner Mayor Nicholson was first up onContinue Reading
National Pet Day 4-11-26 - Listen to this short “Deep Dive” about National Pet Day. The Chair Man and the Chair Man suggest doctors prescribe a shelter pet. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. National Pet Day is Saturday, April 11, 2026 in Greater Gardner MA Why National Pet Day is More Than Just aContinue Reading
Golf Course 4-9-26 - Golf Course is Open for the Season The Gardner Municipal Golf Course has opened for the season. Golf carts are allowed, but attention needs to be paid to the ropes, stakes, and arrows identifying wet areas. Course will be open daily after 5am when play can safety begin without theContinue Reading
Athol MA Budget and Town Meeting Results - Publisher’s Note: We have elevated this to a front-page story rather than just having it appear on the Athol page because it is a case study which could very well be replicated in the region as other decisions are made. Athol’s Recent Election and Ramifications Recent election results in AtholContinue Reading
Budget – Elections – Meetings – Decisions - Communities throughout North Central Massachusetts and the Greater Gardner MA area are facing budget challenges for their upcoming Fiscal 2027 budgets. Social media is loaded with posts from residents of various communities expressing concerns about any tax increases so any proposed overrides which might be brought to voters are expectedContinue Reading
City Council 4-6-26 - Gardner City Council Gets Visit from State Representative Zlotnik Featured at the Gardner City Council meeting of April 6, 2026 was a comprehensive district update from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. Zlotnik details critical shifts in state funding formulas, noting a significant increase in road maintenance aid and the final implementationContinue Reading
City Council – Planning 4-6-26 - Joint Public Hearing Focuses on Signs The Gardner City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing on April 6, 2026 to discuss moving the city’s signage regulations from the zoning code to the general ordinances. Officials argue that the current zoning requirements are too restrictive and time-consuming, citingContinue Reading
Council on Aging 4-6-26 - Council on Aging – Complete Briefing The Gardner Council on Aging (COA) meeting on April 6, 2026, focused on a critical assessment of the fiscal year-end projections, operational challenges, and upcoming transitions. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Despite successful programming and high volunteer engagement, theContinue Reading
Board of Health 4-6-26 - Short Board of Health Meeting Addresses a Number of Topics There was a rather short Gardner Board of Health meeting on April 6, 2026 at which Lauren Saunders was introduced at the newly appointed Health Director. This is Saunders second time in the position. You may recall Health Director SaundersContinue Reading
Vision Zero - Vision Zero Action Committee Developing Comprehensive Roadway Safety Plan. The Vision Zero Action Committee for the City of Gardner had its first meeting on March 31, 2026. The goal is to develop a comprehensive roadway safety plan. City officials and consultants from Kimley Horn discuss a federal grant-funded initiative toContinue Reading
Senior Center April 2026 - Gardner Senior Center Programming and Services for the month of April 2026 Listen to this “Deep Dive” podcast covering all the programming and services for April 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY. The entire newsletter is available on PDF, CLICK HERE. This video covers the April 2026 programming and services.Continue Reading
Gardner Going Nuclear - Gardner Magazine has prepared a series of reports on this topic including explanations on strategic deployment, how it is possible to bring to Gardner, the strategic framework, implementation strategy, a technological primer, and the concept of passive safety allaying those “meltdown” concerns. For the complete page, CLICK HERE. The CityContinue Reading
This Week 4-5-26 - Special Easter Edition: This Week in the Chair City for April 5, 2026 Listen to our AUDIO news magazine, “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY. In this week’s program: A comprehensive update on recent developments in Gardner, highlighting both Mayor Nicholson and George Tyros regardingContinue Reading
Hotline 4-4-26 - Gardner City Leaders Headline Hotline Radio Show of April 4, 2026 Both Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and City Council President George Tyros appeared on the program. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. First up on Hotline – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – Safe Roads and Streets The Mayor spoke ofContinue Reading
Public Welfare 4-3-26 - To view the infographic below in greater clarity, click the IMAGE for a larger view. Gardner Community Youth Center Success Focus of Public Welfare Committee Meeting The Gardner Public Welfare Committee meeting on April 3, 2026 revealed a successful Gardner Youth Center. Director Brandon Hughey reviewed the progress of theContinue Reading
Airport Commission 4-1-26 - To view the infographic below with clarity, click the image for a larger view. Airport Commission Chair Widely Criticized at April 1st Meeting. Gardner Massachusetts has a full-time Airport Manager in Isabelle Davis and Airport Commission members heavily criticized Airport Commission Chair James Woods for what they felt was notContinue Reading
Health Director 4-2-26 - Is the Second time a Charm? Lauren Saunders is Director of Public Health in Gardner Lauren Saunders has been chosen as the Director of Public Health in Gardner. It had come down to two candidates who were interviewed at a March 12th meeting, Saunders and Assistant Director Angelia DiPrima. Saunders’Continue Reading
Drought Update 4-2-26 - Drought is Better, but Fire Danger is Real in Greater Gardner MA. According to Drought.gov, the number of people in Worcester County affected by drought is down almost 90 percent since last month. However, Worcester County had the 9th driest February on record over the last 132 years. While notContinue Reading
Fire Safety 2026 - 2026 Fire Safety Grants Announced The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced that 307 Massachusetts Fire Departments will share $5 million in grant funding to support the purchase of new safety equipment. The following area communities received grants: Some Departments and award amounts: Town of Ashburnham $12,926.27, Town of Ashby $12,500.00, Town ofContinue Reading
What’s Coming Up in April 2026 - For details of items on the infographic below, visit one of the individual communities by clicking on a link. 19 Communities – 19 Articles – Many Events and Meetings – FULL COVERAGE Gardner Magazine has gone all out to provide you with complete coverage on what’s coming up for AprilContinue Reading
Finance Committee 3-31-26 - Performance Updates, Infrastructure Grants, and Budget Focus of Finance Committee The Gardner Finance Committee met on March 31, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Finance Committee meeting held on March 31, 2026, focused on departmental performance updates, the management of major infrastructure grants, and upcoming budgetary transitions. KeyContinue Reading
Appointments 3-31-26 - Candidate Interviews and Administrative Improvements Focus of Appointments Committee Meeting. The Gardner Appointments Committee met on March 31, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. The committee interviewed candidates for the Council on Aging and the Bandstand Committee, focusing on their professional backgrounds, volunteer history, and commitment to the city’sContinue Reading
Expanding News - Gardner Magazine Expands News Coverage Gardner Magazine has been adding to our traditional News Around Greater Gardner MA to give you enhanced coverage of the region, state, and world around you. Added sections: Gardner Magazine has added sections for North Central MA News, Massachusetts Weekly News Roundup, National News WeeklyContinue Reading
2000 Days – Nicholson - Photo shows Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson holding a canvas presented to the City by Gardner Magazine on occasion of the Mayor’s 2000 Days in Office and in recognition of the strategic initiatives that have led to Gardner MA being labeled a “Model City for America.” 2000 Days Towards the “ModelContinue Reading
Everlasting Life – original song - Gardner Magazine Releases the original Classic Rock song – Everlasting Life – in Time for Easter Listen to the original song on any device, CLICK PLAY. Easter Sunday in 2026 is Sunday, April 5, 2026 and this song is about Easter. From the chorus of the song: “Renewal, Hope, andContinue Reading
This Week 3-29-26 - Weekly News Magazine – This Week in the Chair City – March 29, 2026 This Week in the Chair City is our “News Magazine” recapping the week and has an upbeat musical theme. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. This Week’s Edition: Our weekly news magazine provides a comprehensive updateContinue Reading
Everyday is Purple - Have news about your Greater Gardner Relay for Life Team? Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324. Gardner Magazine would be honored to interview any Team members and share your stories or promote your fundraising efforts. Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324. GardnerContinue Reading
Hotline 3-28-26 - WGAW Hotline Radio airs Saturdays from noon to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1FM, or streaming anywhere. Hotline Radio: Gardner Budget – No Kings Rally and Relay for Life – Police Safety – Westminster Town Hall Listen to the entire WGAW Hotline Radio show from March 28, 2026 on any device,Continue Reading
Update 3-27-26 - March Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines a variety of upcoming community events and municipal initiatives as the city transitions into spring. Residents are encouraged to participate in local traditions like the Downtown flower pot sponsorship,Continue Reading
President’s Desk 3-26-26 - Council President George Tyros with a March 2026 Gardner City Council Update View the update on pdf, CLICK HERE. The March 2026 update from Gardner City Council President George Tyros highlights a significant jurisdictional conflict regarding labor negotiations for the newly formed Department Head union. At the center of thisContinue Reading
Gardner Safety Action Plan - Safety Action Plan Announced in Gardner MA The City of Gardner has announced the creation of a comprehensive Safety Action Plan aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries on local roads. Complete Press Release, CLICK HERE. Supported by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, this initiativeContinue Reading
Master Plan Open House - Invitation from the City of Gardner – Community Open House The City of Gardner is inviting residents to a Community Open House on Wednesday April 15th between 4pm to 6pm to review the full draft of Gardner’s Master Plan. According to the City of Gardner’s post “ We’re excited toContinue Reading
Economic Development 3-25-26 - Infrastructure and Community Improvements Focus of March 25, 2026 1 hour+ Meeting of Economic and Community Development Committee Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson provided a detailed status report on the Waterford Community Center, noting nearly completed electrical and plumbing upgrades aimedContinue Reading
Planning Board 3-24-26 - To view a large version of the infographic below, CLICK the IMAGE. Planning Board: Industrial Land Use, Residential Development, and Commercial & Technical Upgrades The Gardner Planning Board met on March 24, 2026. The meeting covered several local land use and development projects. The board addressed a special permit amendmentContinue Reading
CDBG 3-24-26 - The Gardner Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Steering Committee -Fund Reallocations, Project Updates, Social Services, and Application Timeline Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Steering Committee meeting held on March 24, 2026, focused on the reallocation of prior-year funds,Continue Reading
Assessors 3-24-26 - Exciting 69 second Board of Assessors Meeting There were no drum rolls. There was no orchestra. There was City Assessor Christine Kumar and Member Paulette Burns during the Gardner Board of Assessors meeting of March 24, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. The session began in the early afternoonContinue Reading
Westminster PD 3-23-26 - Westminster PD Press Release Explains Large Police Presence Yesterday in the Town View the complete Press Release, CLICK HERE. On Monday, March 23, 2026 at approximately 4:42pm, officers from the Westminster Police Department responded to a residence on South Ashburnham Road to serve an arrest warrant on a 22 yearContinue Reading
City Hall Entrance - Construction Affecting the Entrance to Gardner MA City Hall Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson released the following statement: City Hall Entrance Construction Notice Beginning Monday, March 23, the City will begin the construction at City Hall which will affect the accessibility ramp and front entrance. Phase 1: Accessibility Ramp WorkConstruction onContinue Reading
U.S. News Media - View our complete page, CLICK HERE. Jump to a section, CLICK a LINK: Consumption and Trust — Generational News Gap —- Communication Strategy — Surprising Truths — Strategic Assessment — Navigating the Media Ecosystem Gardner Magazine Reports – U.S. News Media We have 6 different reports in the categories shown in our graphic. CLICK HERE for complete page. The ChairContinue Reading
Gardner Parks – Open Spaces - Report and Commentary: – Gardner MA Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Listen to the report from Werner Poegel on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner is a small City which we have called the “Model City for America” for a number of reasons. With a size of about 23 square milesContinue Reading
Hotline 3-21-26 - WGAW Hotline Radio 3-21-26 Listen to the entire broadcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson kicked off the broadcast with a cautious “Vision for the Future” because “this is going to be a rough budget year for us in the City.” Mayor Nicholson explained that healthcare costsContinue Reading
Winchendon Fire 3-20-26 - Abandoned Winchendon Factory Burns to the Ground – No Injuries Reported Just before 4am on Friday, March 20, 2026 firefighters from Winchendon, Gardner and 6 other area Fire Departments responded to 283 Lincoln Avenue Extension in Winchendon which was the site of the former White Mountain Freezer Company. The 3Continue Reading
This Week 3-20-26 - Weekly News Magazine – This Week in the Chair City – March 20, 2026 This Week in the Chair City is our “News Magazine” recapping the week and has an upbeat musical theme. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. This Week’s Edition: In Gardner, Massachusetts, the City’s identity is forgedContinue Reading
Winchendon – March 2026 - Winchendon MA News, Community Happenings, and Shopping for March 2026 Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner Magazine focuses on Winchendon’s local governance and community life. The week of March 23rd (detailed in the infographic below) will be a busy one for municipal meetings includingContinue Reading
Templeton – March 2026 - Highlighting Goings-on in Templeton MA for March 2026 The Chair Man and the Chair Lady speak of it all in this podcast which you can listen to on any device, CLICK PLAY. Various events and deadlines are coming up in Templeton, MA. Nomination papers for the town election are dueContinue Reading
Hubbardston – March 2026 - An Overview of Upcoming Events in Hubbardston MA for March 2026 Listen to a “Deep Dive” going over all the details on any device, CLICK PLAY. Our infographic provides details for Hubbardston Massachusetts with various municipal updates and community services. This year, Hubbardston saw the appointment of an interim TownContinue Reading
ZBA 3-17-26 - Lengthy Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Has Full Complement of Board Members Listen to the entire ZBA meeting of March 17, 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY. The board introduced its first full five-member panel and established procedural ground rules. The session primarily focused on three specific property cases involvingContinue Reading
License Those Pups – Original Song - Time to License Those Pups – Gardner Magazine Releases an original hit single Dogs Need to be Licensed in Gardner by the end of March. Listen to the original song on any device, CLICK PLAY. Different communities have different deadlines. In the City of Gardner, the deadline to license yourContinue Reading
Advanced Ultrasound - Grant Bringing Advanced Ultrasound to Heywood Hospital The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts has announced a $150,000 grant to Heywood Hospital to fund the purchase of advanced ultrasound technology. This investment aims to modernize the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities, allowing for faster and more precise medical evaluations for patients inContinue Reading
Firefighter Graduates March 2026 - Phillipston and Templeton Firefighters among Graduates of Call/Volunter Recruit Class #124 The 33 members of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class #124 graduated at the Department of Fire Services’ main campus in Stow on the night of March 11. They represent the fire departments of Athol, Ayer, Douglas, Grafton, Hardwick, Hatfield, Lincoln, Medfield,Continue Reading
Ashburnham March 2026 - Spotlight on Ashburnham MA – March 2026 The Town of Ashburnham is currently navigating a period characterized by significant environmental challenges, cybersecurity threats, and upcoming legislative adjustments. As of early 2026, the primary concerns for the municipality include a Level 3 – Critical Drought affecting Millers Basin and a riseContinue Reading
Phillipston March 2026 - Phillipston MA Happenings March 2026 The Town of Phillipston put out a comprehensive guide to local civic engagement and upcoming Spring festivities. CLICK HERE. The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss it all. Listen on any device. The Phillipston Newsletter details critical municipal deadlines, such as obtaining nomination papersContinue Reading
Town Crier Episode 21 - Westminster MA Town Crier Episode 21 – Future of Westminster’s Old Town Hall The Town Crier podcast is hosted by Westminster MA Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen. Listen to this episode on any device, CLICK PLAY. The episode primarily focuses on the restoration of the Old Town Hall, a landmark thatContinue Reading
Board of Health 3-12-26 - The choice of the next permanent Health Director for Gardner MA is a big decision and we are providing complete coverage with the AUDIO of the 2 interviews, an explanation podcast discussing the issues, a debate with Max and Maxine Rogers each picking one candidate over the other, and anContinue Reading
Gardner PD 3-16-26 - Editorial – What Makes Gardner PD Great I listened to the Gardner City Council meeting on March 16, 2026 and it was filled with life in a few ways. First the lively sound of a very happy baby who I am convinced was intrigued by the political process and willContinue Reading
City Council 3-16-26 - The Gardner City Council authorized the Council President to seek legal clarification regarding its ability to participate in contract talks when individuals who report to the City Council are involved. While George Tyros’ remarks are included in the meeting AUDIO, we highlight them here. Despite Absence of 3 Councilors –Continue Reading
Library – March 2026 - Levi Heywood Memorial Library has Community Programming for the Youngest to the Oldest The Community Programming offered by Levi Heywood Memorial Library located at 55 West Lynde Street in Gardner is wide-ranging. Hours are Monday and Tuesday from 9am to 6pm, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 7pm, and FridayContinue Reading
Leapfrog Decision - Rozanna Penney, CEO of Heywood Healthcare stated: “We are encouraged to see a federal judge recognize that these survey practices can be misleading. Our community knows the quality of care delivered at Heywood Healthcare, but ratings that assign failing grades to hospitals that did not participate in a survey riskContinue Reading
Hotline 3-14-26 - WGAW Hotline Radio – Daylight Savings Time Edition Spring officially begins on Friday, March 20th at 10:46am. This is the first Hotline Radio Show with Daylight Savings Time for 2026. Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson was up first on the showContinue Reading
Car Crash into Burger King - Summary: Car crash resulted in no injuries. Building sustained damage, but Burger King expected to be open later today, March 13th, or at the latest, the morning of March 14th. Car Crashes into Gardner MA Burger King On the afternoon of March 13, 2026, the Gardner Fire Department received aContinue Reading
This Week 3-13-26 - Weekly News Magazine – This Week in the Chair City – March 13, 2026 This Week in the Chair City has a new musical theme and a new style. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. This edition of our weekly news magazine provides a comprehensive overview of various stories GardnerContinue Reading
Interview with an AI - A Bold Interview – Werner Poegel Interviews Artificial Intelligence Just how far has AI advanced? Can an AI carry on a natural conversation? Gardner Magazine got permission from Amazon and put Alexa to the test. The result is this rather unusual interview with Artificial Intelligence. Listen on any device. WeContinue Reading
Drought 3-12-26 - Despite Recent Snow – It’s Dry, Dry, Dry in Greater Gardner MA Some of Gardner is in the moderate drought zone. However, that big blob is the severe drought zone according to the Drought and Dryness categories from Drought.gov. To check any time visit this link: Future forecast conditions areContinue Reading
Public Welfare 3-12-26 - Efforts of Historical Commission highlights Public Welfare Meeting The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on March 12, 2026 and primarily focused on updates from Chris Pera, chair of the Historical Commission. Highlighted were recent efforts to restore a local cemetery and the necessity to secure additional funding for long-term preservation.Continue Reading
Disability Commission 3-11-26 - Disability Commission Discusses Improving Citywide Accessibility in Gardner MA. Listen to the March 11, 2026 meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. DPW Director Dane Arnold addressed the challenges of snow removal and the ongoing efforts to install compliant sidewalk ramps. The commission also examined a state notice regarding accessibility issuesContinue Reading
Economic Development 3-11-26 - Economic Community Development Committee Reviews Progress on Infrastructure and Social Service Initiatives. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Director Jason Stevens explained a significant 300% cost overrun for the Rear Main project, attributed to a three-year delay in receiving electrical back-charge estimates from National Grid. ToContinue Reading
Planning Board 3-10-26 - Cannabis on the Menu at Gardner Planning Board Meeting held on March 10th Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. Primary discussion involves a proposal from the Heady Co., a cannabis business seeking to modify its permit to include residential delivery services under social equity provisions. BoardContinue Reading
Finance Committee 3-10-26 - Finance Committee Hears Extensive Operational Updates at March Meeting Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Assessor’s Office reported on tax rates, property abatements, and a troubling increase in aggressive public behavior toward staff, prompting a committee discussion on implementing new safety protocols. Human Resources detailedContinue Reading
Winchendon BOS 3-9-26 - FULL COVERAGE: Winchendon Board of Selectmen March 9, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. During the over 2 1/2 Hour meeting of the Winchendon Board of Selectmen on March 9, 2026, the focus was on local governance and infrastructure updates. A significant portion of theContinue Reading
Gardner Redevelopment 3-10-26 - Electrical Costs from National Grid Push Up Costs of Rear Main Street Project – Gardner Redevelopment Authority Meets Listen to the entire meeting (except for the Executive Session) on any device, CLICK PLAY. During the Gardner Redevelopment Authority meeting on March 10, 2026, officials discussed critical budget overruns for theContinue Reading
School Committee 3-9-26 - Gardner School Committee March Meeting Focused on Local Educational Progress and Fiscal Challenges Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. A central highlight is the presentation on College and Career Readiness, detailing the success of early college initiatives and vocational partnerships like the MVP program. Officials shareContinue Reading
Rietta opening April 5th - Rietta Flea Market, off Route 68 in Hubbardston, Massachusetts is opening for the season on April 5, 2026. Rietta Flea Market Readies for April 5th Opening 2026 is Rietta’s 60th year. The vendor fee is still $40 per table, a price that Rietta Flea Market has held for 7 years.Continue Reading
Conservation 3-9-26 - Future of Sludge Landfill Discussed at Conservation Commission Meeting. The Gardner Conservation Commission met on March 9, 2026 where members and the public discuss the management of a local sludge landfill. A concerned resident urges the board to maintain an enforcement order, citing missed safety details in recent reports andContinue Reading
Appointments 3-9-26 - Greenwood Pool to Be Run by Youth Center Director This Summer – Gardner Appointments Committee The Gardner Appointments Committee meeting held on March 9,2026 focused on a significant wave of personnel transitions, departmental restructurings, and procedural refinements. A central theme of the proceedings was the positive impact of Gardner’s departureContinue Reading
Airport Commission March 2026 - Infrastructure Updates Focus of Gardner Airport Commission at March Meeting. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. The Gardner Airport Commission convened to discuss critical infrastructure updates, specifically focusing on archaeological assessments required for a new perimeter fence and federal NEPA review compliance. A representative from GailContinue Reading
MWCC Monty’s Cubs - Top Photo: MWCC President James Vander Hooven, Coordinator of Student Parent Supports Ann Reynolds, and Monty the Mountain Lion. Bottom Photo: Ann Reynolds stands with the “Birthday Hut” at the newly reopened Monty’s Cubs Child Watch on the MWCC Gardner Campus, first floor. Monty’s Cubs Child Watch is Open AgainContinue Reading
Board of Health – March 2026 - Board of Health Meeting: Staffing Changes, Landfill Repairs, and House Condemnation Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY. At the Gardner Board of Health meeting of March 4, 2026, the board covered various municipal updates and administrative actions. Acting Health Director Angela DiPrima details significant staffing changes,Continue Reading
Spring Has Sprung – original song - Gardner Magazine Releases a wonderfully sappy song for the upcoming season: “Spring Has Sprung” Listen to the original song on any device, CLICK PLAY. Excerpts from the song: Spring has sprung, spring has sprung, it’s the season of life for everyone. Spring has sprung, spring has sprung, the song ofContinue Reading
This Week 3-8-26 - Weekly News Magazine – This Week in the Chair City – March 8, 2026 This Week in the Chair City has a new musical theme and a new style. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. The past week in Gardner was a masterclass in civic resilience and administrative navigation. WhileContinue Reading