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This page carries our 40 most recent stories. For the next 120 stories, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine is also Gardner Herald, and a newspaper of general circulation for Greater Gardner MA. Easy URL for Mobile is 3MX.us —- Jump to News of Nearby Communities — LIVE TV NEWS News & Events: News@GardnerMagazine.com
In our Nearby Communities section below:
Town of Ashburnham Wayfinding Survey —- Town of Hubbardston FY25 Budget —- Welcome to Westminster Event 4-4-24 —- Town of Templeton Updated Reports – — Consecutive Winchendon Meetings: Select Board on 3-25 with Beal’s Memorial Library presentation – Joint meeting with Planning Board concerning Fiscal 2025 Budget – Motor Vehicle and Bus Collide in Barre on March 28, 2024 with no Serious Injuries Reported – Bus in the ditch – No Injuries – in Hubbardston MA —- Ashburnham Sidewalk Project begins —- A report on the Town of Templeton for 3-14-24 —- Winchendon Board of Selectmen March 11, 2024 – complete meeting AUDIO —- Technical Assistance Grants Awardees Include Town of Westminster MA —-News of Westminster, Massachusetts including pdf of its 14 page Newsletter —– The Winchendon Select Board met on February 26, 2024 in a more than 3 hour meeting. Landfill was discussed. Town of Winchendon Holds Meeting on Budget Issues with Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee —- Whitney Hall Study Complete —- Petersham Open Space Update —- Hubbardston Safe Roads Plan —- Athol Update and Interesting Water Quality info —- Ashby Electric Rates at 11 cents —- Ashburnham MA Master Plan including 2022 Raw Data and various Chapters —– Templeton Annual Town Meeting —-Winchendon Water Main Break —- Otter River Pub Reopening —- Westminster South Street Sentinel — JUMP TO SECTION.
- Fictional 9
Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater Episode 9 – Don and Joe Go to Mars
This time, Joe and Don are on their way to Planet Mars. Will Joe and Don need replacements on the ballot or will Don’s Space Time Derivative work? Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Also Listen to Episodes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 on our Fictional Fun page. CLICK HERE.
This is a work of fiction. No actual politicians participated in this series. And they did not actually travel to Mars.
Upcoming Episodes: Joe and Don Form a Rock Band, Joe and Don at the Junkyard, Joe and Don Meet the Aliens, Joe and Don Travel U.S. by Train.
- Zoning 3-27-24
Zoning Board of Appeals With Spirited Discussions at Recent Meeting
During the meeting of March 27, 2024, there were discussions, explanations, and information presented.
Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
- Yard 2024
Gardner Residents Gear Up for First Yard Waste Pickup of 2024
Gardner MA residents will be putting out yard waste on their regular trash pickup day during the week of April 2nd through April 5th. This will be the only yard waste pickup until the next one during the first week of May. Yard Waste pickup is the first week of every month from April through October, with 2 pickup weeks in November.
What you can put out: Grass clippings and leaves may be placed in paper yard waste bags or loose in open barrels with no lid. EL Harvey has asked that residents no longer use cardboard boxes. There is no limit to how many containers or bags of yard waste you can put out. Sticks less than 2 inches thick and up to 3 feet long may be place out in bundles. All bundles and containers must weigh less than 50 pounds each.
What is a prohibited NO NO: Yard waste may not include rocks, gravel, sod or dirt.
The City of Gardner issued this reminder: “If your yard waste is not removed by the end of your scheduled day, please call EL Harvey Call Center within 48 hours to report at 1-800-321-3002.”
- Conservation 3-25-24
Various Properties Focus of Conservation Commission in Gardner MA
The Gardner Conservation Commission Took up Various Matters on March 25, 2024. Complete Agenda, CLICK HERE.
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Matters concerned vegetation management on Kendall Pond, property located on Wampanoag Road South, 130 Crystal Lake Drive for the North Central Pathway Nature Trail Connector, All Purpose Storage LLC regarding buffer zones of a bordering Vegetated Wetland, contractor building and associated site improvements at 170 Mill Street Gardner
- Golf 3-25-24
Season of Golf to Begin in Gardner MA at Municipal Golf Course
The Golf Commission met on March 25, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
There was a discussion of promoting the Veterans Discount at the Golf Course through a free program.
The computer system is ready to go. Staff has been training on it. It is cloud-based. There was a discussion on when the Golf Course will open. “We’re going to see next week if we can get people walking around….It will be way too wet for golf carts.” They will try next week to see if they can roll some greens.
Right now, receipts are $515,000 and expenses are $725,000 so Golf Course is in the red. However, “As memberships pick up and the golf course opens, that should turn around.”
- Welfare 3-26-24
Complete Agenda and Packet with Monty Tech Budget Information. Budget shows assessments for all participating communities. CLICK HERE.
Gardner Public Schools MVP Academy and Monty Tech FY 25 Budget Take Up Public Welfare Meeting
The Public Welfare Committee chaired by Councilor Judy Mack met on March 26, 2024. Presentations at the meeting included: Gardner Public Schools MVP Academy, Monty Tech Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Presentation, and a discussion on Ordinance to create an Agricultural Commission. Complete Agenda and Monty Tech FY 25 Complete Budget information is included, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY
Agricultural Commission item is in separate short 2 minute AUDIO matching short 2 minute video posted by City of Gardner. It was agreed that more time that was needed before a recommendation was rendered. Listen to the exciting 2 minute meeting conclusion on any device, CLICK PLAY.
- Council 3-25-24
Council President Kazinskas stated, “The Community Development Block Grant, or CDBG Program, provides funding and technical support for projects that achieve the city’s development objectives while principally benefiting low- and moderate-income persons and or addressing slum and blight conditions. Funding for the CDBG Program is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development under the guidelines of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended.”
Director Trevor Beauregard responded by describing some funding being held up by the need for an environmental review and indicated that his Department did respond to an audit for the 2021 grant. Hear his opening comment, CLICK PLAY
Other Councilors asked questions of the Director. (Best to listen to entire meeting) Councilor Judy Mack alleges Gross Negligence by a Former Development Department Employee. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner City Council Meets on CDBG Grants and Goes over Issues
Various State Reviews of prior year CDBG Grants are taking place and Director of Development and Planning Trevor Beauregard was on hand to answer Councilor questions. Councilor George Tyros (the City Council designee to the Steering Committee) had requested the meeting to review the City’s management of the Community Development Block Grant Program. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Councilor Tyros stated, “In preparation for the first CDBG meeting of this year, I reached out to the Director in February to request an update on previous block grant projects, specifically the demolition of the Greenwood indoor pool, construction of a new pavilion in its place, and the construction of Maki Park downtown. The Director informed me that the Block Grant 2022-2023 funds have not yet been released, so no project could be initiated. And in a follow-up question, he informed me that all work related to the Block Grant 2022-2023 grant would need to be completed by the Assistant Director after he starts. The reason why we’re here this evening is because at that meeting, the Director shared with me and the committee that as a part of regular monitoring and review by the State of the program, issues were found in the administration of both construction and public social services aspects of the Block Grant program. Issues that, as I’ve said before, are not detrimental, but are holding up funding for important projects and opportunities that we have to action on if we want to continue moving Gardner in the right direction and keep this important funding.” Tyros stated his objective was to have a discussion about the challenges being faced, to make sure changes are being made, and to prevent future issues that could threaten the source of funding. Listen to Councilor Tyros’ full remarks on any device. CLICK PLAY.
We reached out for further comment to a number of people and Councilor Judy Mack responded, “The grant audit list of errors is a direct result of someone not doing their job of which they were responsible for which was why I said it was a gross negligence on the person who was responsible.”
We did reach out to the former Assistant Director, current Director Trevor Beauregard, Councilor George Tyros, and Mayor Michael Nicholson. We will post their comments here if they choose to add something.
- Transportation Survey
How to provide Transportation Input: (1) Fill Out the Survey CLICK HERE. (2) If you have further thoughts, email Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson via Mayor@Gardner-MA.gov or call his office at (978) 630-1490. To view a larger version of the image above, just click on it.
Take a FREE, 1 Minute, Easy Transportation Survey and Help Yourself and other Commuters
Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated, “The City and Wood’s Ambulance are conducting a transportation survey for the City to gauge the demand for residents looking for transportation from Gardner to the Wachusett Commuter Rail Station for both work or entertainment/travel purposes.”
- Service 3-25-24
Gardner MA Public Service Committee Gains Intel on City Progress
Chair Councilor Paul Tassone along with Councilor George Tyros and Councilor Thibeault-Munoz met on March 25, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Chair Paul Tassone recounted a Zoning problem and is asking that a committee or something be put together to study it. Tassone spoke to a business which is zoned commercial 2 but was erroneously told he was in industrial 2 due to a defect in the Zoning database. City Engineer Rob Oliva stated, “So historically, the GIS survey department has maintained the zoning map. And for some reason, the zoning change had been made. Everybody started looking at the zoning map. It didn’t reflect the change that was made back in the early 2000s at this particular site. When the building department started looking into it, they were having trouble finding the vote of the city council on the issue. So it kind of compounded. But long story short, it was found. Everybody agreed it zoned correctly. The zoning map just never got changed.“
DPW Director Dane Arnold informed about several old pieces of equipment which need to be declared surplus to “at least recoup some of the money.” Arnold reported on staffing and the effect on the last storm, “We have 12 vacancies in the entire DPW, including two retirees that will be retired by the end of this month. On top of that, we have one on medical leave and one on the Family Medical Leave Act, so that leaves us with 14 vacancies currently that we had over the weekend in this last storm. There were seven routes that didn’t have anyone in it, so that just means our guys worked one and a half times longer to get out to cover these routes.” The Director reported that they had received offers from both unions, “hopefully if the salaries increase, we can get some more employees in here.”
Bid was opened last Thursday regarding the transmission line for the water main. Low bid was almost $1,065,000, “anything over $1 million, we’re going to have to pay out of the water enterprise account.” Director Arnold spoke of various paving plans.” I can only authorize for the water department what was excavated up. Obviously, I’m going to talk to the mayor and see if we can incorporate not only James but Highland and Reservoir and just try to get the whole neighborhood together. So I’ll put together a proposal, and hopefully we can get funding for it. We are looking at, the mayor and I, we’ve put together what we’re going to be paving as far as when that rotary project is done, Elm Street, Green Street, Pearl Street, and see what it’s going to cost. We’re also thinking about trying to tie in Chestnut Street, if we can afford it. So we are looking at doing that when that project is done.So that transmission line, we’re hoping to get started probably late June to July and get it wrapped up either by fall or spring of next year.” Regarding the James Street Pump Station, “On top of that, we have been verbally told that we have received a grant for the James Street pump station, which is up on top of the hill. That pumps water from the tanks over to the elevated storage tank, which is on the other side of 140, which feeds the elevated system. That plan has only been touched since the 80s, so we’re looking at like a million and a half bucks to upgrade that plant as well. Grant for Summit Pumps: We’re also looking for a grant for the Summit pumps, which is a sewer pump station, which is down in Industrial Park off of Suffolk Lane. We’ve been receiving more and more flow from Ashburnham to the point where the pumps actually need to be upgraded, so we’ve asked for a grant to redo that pump station, which I think is 1989, 1986, somewhere in that year. So hopefully we can get grants for that.” The Director stated that any disruptions to service would be several hours when they do that. Regarding a possible Wastewater Plant upgrade, “The other thing we’re looking at is we have to do another upgrade at the wastewater plant, which we have, again, been talking about for years. We’re working on a scope and a project cost. We’re looking at the sewer rates and what we can afford, and it’s somewhere in the $4 million range that we can afford to do down there. A lot of the mechanisms on the tanks, those large tanks.”
DPW Director Dane Arnold also spoke of progress with the Disc Golf Course going up off of Leo Drive. He spoke of the planter built twice at Monument Park – the first one lasted 16 hours before a motor vehicle had an accident and drove right through it. “Fortunately, no one was up there working on it at the time.” The whole thing was built again the next day.
City Engineer Rob Oliva reported that the Uptown Rotary Project is slated to start back up in the middle of April with a fall finish date. Regarding the Sludge Landfill Project: “The sludge landfill project, we’re still moving forward with that. Our consultant is still working on it. We recently met with a consultant and state officials from DEP and the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs regarding our upcoming submittal to MEPA for our draft environmental impact report. As part of that, they recommended we have some public outreach, so there was some discussion on how to do that and what would work. So our consultant’s putting together a plan for our public outreach to have MEPA review and say, yes, this is what we’re looking for. So we’ll keep you updated on that. At some point, we’ll have some sort of public meeting to discuss the project.” Regarding Flood Control, ” South Gardner Flood Control Project sees an annual inspection from the Army Corps of Engineers. They’re coming April 3rd to do that, so I’ll go out with them. We drive to all the sites. They do their inspections and produce a report every year.”
Conservation Agent Doug Dillon reported on the dam, ” At one of my meetings, I had received some concerns from the commission members, you know, regarding the condition of the dam, so I reached out to the Office of Dam Safety and they sent out an engineer to view the area, you know, as far as the rain this month. They noted no change in condition from the last report, which I think was April, May of 23. So, you know, for the time being, it’s stable, I guess.” On the North Central Trail Connector, “which is going to be running, you know, along Crystal Lake and connecting to the old rail bed. Some of the concerns that I have with that was the wetland area crossing with a culvert that holds a wetland replication area. And I’ve been working with the applicant, which is the city, and their consultant, Ty Vaughn, to hopefully, you know, create a resilient and worthy project of, you know, the funds it’s receiving and the people that will be using it.” Dillon indicated it would be a pretty substantial project as it will be 10 to 12 feet wide with an additional 5 feet cleared out at the sides.
- Health 3-25-24
Gardner Health Director Micah Blondeau Updates City at Board of Health Meeting
Gardner Board of Health met on March 25, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Abandoned Housing – The Director has a plan in place for handling abandoned housing with the ACO’s office of the State, “Whenever we identify a new house that we think they would find suitable, we’re going to refer that to them.”
Landfill – Director Blondeau stated, “I’m going to be meeting with our environmental consultants at the landfill so we can get a clear view of the sort of work that we need to do. And then we’ll start getting close and working on figuring out how to pay for those projects. …We did get a quote to install some precast concrete steps where the residents throw the trash into the bagel containers. So that was about $3,000 for pre-made steps. And then we would be able to install them. And we probably need railings. So we’re still exploring our options with that.”
E.L. Harvey – No complaints “since the last meeting, we haven’t had any complaints regarding E.L. Harvey and co-handling trash recycling or anything like that.”
Norovirus at a restaurant – “We did get one complaint about potential food borne illness, but we don’t have a lot of details on it other than two different people ate at a restaurant at two different times, and they both had norovirus, but we don’t know what they ate or when they ate. We did do a preliminary inspection today and just went with it as far as making sure they’re following the procedures for restricting or excluding employees, hand-washing, educating about norovirus, all that good stuff. So we will keep working on that as much as we can.” What is norovirus? Here’s the detail from the CDC, CLICK HERE.
Vaccine Clinics – “We are still waiting on a schedule for the next clinics, where the vaccinations go.”
Health and Wellness Fair – So far, there are 54 vendors for April 17th.
Gardner Health Department on Facebook:
- Homeless Help
Report: Research Finds at Least 4 Successful Examples of Tiny House Villages for Homeless
The Concept is to provide a small shelter to a homeless person with other needed services on-site. There might be 20 or more such tiny shelters on the same parcel of land. We found 4 successful examples from Oregon, Washington, and Texas – links are included below. With appropriate zoning, this could be done on City or town-owned property of as little as 1 acre in size which could be leased to a non-profit for a nominal $1 a year. In the links below, you will be able to read in detail about what has worked, what associated services are provided to help with some of the challenges the homeless face, and what details are involved. The pending MA housing bill and other grant opportunities might provide startup funding.
Square One Villages —- Community First —- Quixotec Communities —- Dignity Village.
- Tassone 3-24-24
Listen to the Complete Interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner’s No Nonsense Councilor Is “No Boloney Tassone“
We spoke with Gardner MA City Councilor Paul Tassone on March 24, 2023 and again on March 24, 2024. We’re calling our conversation, the “No Boloney Tassone” Interview. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
The Councilor filled an unexpired term and is now serving a full 2 year term after being re-elected in November 2023. We asked about improvements in the past year and Tassone responded, “We’ve done quite a bit of infrastructure work with the roads and sidewalks. And coming this summer, we’ll be doing more work both on Reagan, Moran, and I believe Greenwood. And there’s several other streets that we’ll be working on.”
Councilor Tassone is earning the trust of his ward through some hard work. “I’ve had the honor of speaking with many of the residents in Ward 3, whether it be about trees being dead or being removed on their particular street or whether or not, they’re having issues from a property perspective. I’ve made house visits. I’ve listened to what people had to say. Anytime someone gives me a call on the phone, I answer the call. And I’m always good to follow up and follow through.”
No Boloney: Tassone stated he’s had fairly good success in working with City Departments including DPW, Building, or Health. “I am a straight shooter, Werner, 100%. What comes out of my mouth is I’m going to come straight at it and I’m going to get to the bottom of it.” We asked, “Is that why some constituents are calling you No Boloney Tassone?” and the Councilor said, ” I love it, from time to time, I guess that’s OK.”
Tassone complimented the Mayor on his transparency. He understands why a new salt shed was needed, but wants the City Council to do its due diligence to get the money back in to the stabilization account. Tassone also complimented the City Council President on the job she does.
Regarding Downtown Gardner: “It’s very easy to drive through the downtown and see the major improvements that we’ve done to our downtown and much more to come with rear Main Street as well. Businesses continue to open up housing, rental housing available in the downtown area. More prevalent now than in years past. Millions of dollars have been spent in our downtown to improve the look, the feel, and the overall community, to be quite honest with you, I’m proud of what I see moving forward and moving in the downtown area.”
Tassone had much more to say which you can hear in the complete AUDIO of the interview above. He concluded, “I would just say I appreciate my constituents in Ward 3 having confidence in me, and voting me in for two more years this past November. I do appreciate that. I’m going to continue to work hard, and we’ll continue to see Gardner improve over the next year. I’m sure we’ll talk before then, Werner, but I think we will have even more exciting things happening in the next year, for sure.”
- Power 3-24-24
Power Outages Affecting MA on Sunday March 24, 2024
Of over 1.35 million customers, National Grid reports that just over 900 were without power on Sunday March 24, 2024. In Franklin County, 371 customers were expected to have power by 4:30pm. Worcester County, 506 customers were expected to have power back by 8:30pm, and 40 customers in Middlesex County were expected to have power back by 3:45pm.
Is winter finally over? That we will only know in hindsight a month or two from now. However, weather beginning midweek is expected to be 50 degrees or higher and any precipitation is expected to be rain.
- Week 3-24-24
Gardner MAgazine THIS WEEK – March 24, 2024 with the “Chair Man”
Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers, the “Chair Man”. voices Gardner MAgazine This week. In this periodic AUDIO magazine, you’ll hear about various events in the City of Gardner and the surrounding area. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
More information about the news stories mentioned and links to further resources can be found in various articles on our home page.
Thank you for listening to Gardner Magazine This week. If you hear of news you think we should cover, please email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Happy Puppy
Editorial: A Salute to Dogs on National Puppy Day in Greater Gardner MA
Dog owners know the joy of having a dog. “Man’s best friend” – as dogs are often called, provide companionship, comfort, and service. There are the public examples of Comfort Dog Sully who works with the Gardner Fire Department and K-9 Rocky who assists the Gardner Police Department and caught a burglar on his first day.
The private examples are the millions of dogs who have brought joy to the lives of so many people. But all dogs, like people, start off as small dogs. That is why we want to properly honor National Puppy Day on March 23, 2024. There’s is no love like Puppy Love. And the adult dogs they will soon become, one of God’s greatest gifts to our world.
Often, dogs in the area share much joy in socializing with each other at the Dog Park located at Pulaski Park off either Wright Street or Charbonneau Street in Gardner.
- Hotline 3-23-24
Paul Topolski on Hotline Radio – We’re Getting Back 336 grand
Gardner Emergency Management Director Paul Topolski appeared on WGAW’s Hotline Radio on Saturday, March 23, 2024 for an interview with host Steve Wendell. He announced that FEMA has approved a $336,000 reimbursement to the City for expenses incurred during Covid.
The reimbursement will cover expenses of the mailings, advertising, Covid Call Center, items purchased, huge number of materials and more. “But originally submitted for about a half a million, and then FEMA came back and were telling us that some of those expenses weren’t valid. I’ll give you one example. We had to run the internet into Perry Auditorium, but because that was considered a permanent fixture, that wouldn’t be reimbursable. So there were certain things that they wouldn’t allow, some overtime at the fire department, for example. But $336,000, that’s still a good hunk of change. “
WGAW is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streaming to anywhere in the world.
Persistence pays off: Gardner almost didn’t get reimbursed for the Call Center, but Topolski and others pressed the issue and the City is getting the money. “FEMA originally looked at it and said, well, no, we’re not going to pay for any of that. And they made a very strong argument with them that, you know, we needed the call center because we had such a population that didn’t have access to smartphones or the internet. So we told them that at our peak, we had 300 available appointments at the call center, and that day we received 57,000 calls for people trying to get in because they heard that Gardner had vaccines. So once they understood the importance of it, they capitulated, and the call center, all of the labor for the call center, and all of the hardware that we had to buy, and the online services, the internet services that it required were all paid for.”
Mohawk Radio Club
Topolski welcomed the WGAW audience to be a guest of the Mohawk Radio Club which holds a meeting Monday March 25th at 7pm at the Gardner Police Station. If you can’t make that just send Director Topolski an email and he’ll get you in touch with folks at the club. paul.topolski@comcast.net
Solar Flares
Topolski spoke about solar flares: “The other part of what’s going on is the part of the solar cycle. And we’re approaching the peak, which should be around December of this year, before it starts sliding down again on that 11-year cycle. In my shack here, I monitor the solar conditions. And right now we’re in the process of having a radio blackout in portions of the world because of solar flares that are happening on the sun. So it’s very much a natural effect that happens to affect our atmosphere….We had a very large solar flare, what they call an X-Class, on December 31st. And it killed 40 of those new Starlink satellites that are going up. It just killed the satellites altogether.”
- Phone Scam
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Warns of Recent Phone Scam
Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis is issuing a warning to residents regarding a recent phone scam involving the Sheriff’s Office. The phone scammer poses as an employee of the Sheriff’s Office and informs the victim that they have an arrest warrant or charges filed in their name or that of a loved one. The scammer then demands payment of a fine to avoid being arrested and serving jail time. Another common phone scam involves telling individuals they have missed jury duty, which also results in a fine.
“Unfortunately, we recently received a report of an individual who was scammed out of over $20,000,” commented Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis. “With the amount of information sharing and readily available data on consumer habits, scammers may know where you bank, the products you buy, or the names of your loved ones. Scam artists will go to any length to trick you into sharing personal information or issuing irreversible payments.”
According to the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, this type of scam is called spoofing. Spoofing is when a scammer deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to your caller ID display to disguise their identity. Scammers often use neighbor spoofing so it appears that an incoming call is coming from a local number or spoof a number from a company or a government agency that you may already know and trust.
In the case of the Sheriff’s Office scam, the scammers use the names of actual officers and “spoof” the department’s phone number. The scammer asks for money to clear up a non-existent warrant. In some instances, the caller requests that payments be made in the form of gift certificates or via apps such as Venmo or Cash App. The scammer will then have the victim remain on the line until the victim purchases the gift certificates or relays specific financial information to the scammer.
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office encourages people to be aware of calls like this and to never give personal or financial information over the phone to anyone whom you didn’t call yourself.
“Our department does not contact residents and demand payment or ask for credit card information. Today’s scam artists are always testing new tactics. Residents need to beware of any unsolicited calls that ask for their personal or financial information,” commented Sheriff Evangelidis. “These callers can sound convincing, may be aggressive, and try to intimidate you with threats of jail time or steep fines. We encourage anyone who gets a suspicious call to hang up and contact their associated institutions directly to verify any requests.”
- Update 3-22-24
Mayor Nicholson Addresses the Chair City with a “Jam-Packed” Update
Listen to the Update on any device, CLICK PLAY
Correction: Mayor Nicholson accidentally gave out incorrect yard waste info last week. Here’s the correct information – Yard Waste collection takes place the first full week of the month from April through October and the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month in November only.
Business News – Blue Spire Property Management had their ribbon cutting at Central Park Building —- Tanguay Jewelers had grand reopening —- Hometown Barbers grand reopening is March 30th — Aldi is opening on April 4th at Timpany Plaza —- Joint Operations opens April 20th at Timpany Crossroads —- In the works: Chipotle, Five Below, and Jersey Mike’s. Brilla Coffee will open at 25 Main Street in late Summer or early Fall.
Reminders – Fire Hazard: Gardner Fire Department reminds people that extra fire hazards happen when we have windy conditions like this . —- Gardner Police Department is accepting applications for the annual Citizens Police Academy, it’ll be held Wednesdays from 6pm to 8pm from May 1st through June 19th. Cost is FREE. —- K-9s Rocky or Sully may be able to make it to your event. Just ask PD or Fire Chief —- One week left to get your dog license which is due April 1st. —- Permit is needed for a yard sale. However it is FREE. —- Johnny Appleseed Trail Association Books available at City Hall.
DPW News – A new planter was built by DPW at Monument Park twice this week as a car hit the first one.
Events: Friday, March 29th is Vietnam Veterans Memorial Day to be celebrated on the front steps of City Hall at 10am. —- Holy Family Academy is having their annual gala on April 6th
Personnel: Human Resources Director Debra Pond has decided to leave her job of 20+ years. On December 4, 2023, Pond’s re-appointment was confirmed on a 9 to 2 vote by the Gardner City Council. The Appointments Committee had recommended against her re-appointment. Listen to both meetings and view the article, CLICK HERE.
- Zlotnik 3-21-24
Positive on Business – Interview with Jonathan Zlotnik
State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik is Positive on Business in general, and especially positive on Gardner’s newest furniture factory, Wood You Build It. Listen to the Interview on any device, CLICK PLAY
Jon Zlotnik posted about the visit to Wood You Build It, “Last Friday we toured Wood You Build It, a new furniture factory in the City of Gardner. This business moved from Etsy to a 25,000 square foot factory with the help of the Wachusett Business Incubator. I’m very proud of the work the incubator is doing to help local start up businesses. Wood You Build It specializes in kitchen islands. Their products are hand made and custom made to order by expert craftsmen and artisans.” According to their website, the company makes kitchen islands, trash bins, stools & chairs, pet furniture, storage benches, and miscellaneous furniture. They write, “If you dream it, we can build it.”
“Wood You Build It is trying to bring the notation of handcrafted, heirloom furniture back to the City of Gardner, MA for which it belongs, one home at a time.”What started out with a makeshift basement workshop, has now become an endeavor of over a dozen employees. We now manufacture out of a 25,000 sqft facility.”
Economic Development Zlotnik’s Top Priority for the last 12 Years
Representative Zlotnik spoke of his priorities, “The number one need in this region, and certainly in my district: The creation of jobs, the creation of opportunity, the revitalization of vacant or underused properties is so important, not just for the,… community at large, but also really for the local tax base, to make sure that the municipalities out here can provide the services that their residents need and expect, and make sure that, the community can grow, prosper, be safe, and have all those opportunities.” Ten years ago, Jon Zlotnik and some business leaders were instrumental in starting the Wachusett Business Incubator. “The one that has become really a standout success is Would You Build It.”
Other Sections of Gardner
Jon Zlotnik spoke of the changes in Downtown Gardner and the conversion of manufacturing buildings to housing. He spoke of the possibility of another industrial park in Gardner. Zlotnik spoke of another ribbon cutting ceremony on West Lynde Street and celebrating the grand re-opening of Tanguay Jewelers being passed from the next generation to the next. He spoke of “investments from the state, federal, and local government into water and sewer infrastructure to make sure that those capacities are up to snuff for a growing population and a growing business community, as well.” We spoke of the Route 68 area, the tenants in Timpany Plaza, and the former Garbose metal property which is still up for grabs. “along Route 68 is, I think, one of the prime areas for significant economic development.”
On Politics
Zlotnik concurred that moving forward regardless of party is the way he thinks. We asked, “How about everybody just cooperate on ideas, forget the party, and just move forward, ” Zlotnik’s response: “I couldn’t agree more...” He pointed out the of 12 State budgets he’s worked on, 11 have been passed with unanimous or near unanimous support. “Despite the lopsided nature of the partisan balance in Massachusetts, there’s still a lot of effort to make sure that we can come together.” He also stated, “Political bickering and partisan fighting serves almost no one.”
- The Twenty
A wonderful human lesson shared by City Councilor Paul Tassone
You are all special. Listen to this short story passed along on Facebook by Gardner MA City Councilor Paul Tassone. Listen on any Device. CLICK PLAY.
- Cleanout Kings
Spring Means Clean Out – These Guys are the Kings
We keep seeing information about Cleanout Kings on Facebook, so our curiosity got the best of us. We interviewed Eric Olson, the Cleanout King at Cleanout Kings. Apparently, they do small jobs to big jobs. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Olson explained how empathy is important in his business as sometimes he deals with hoarders. Olson stated, “I started my business three years ago. We do junk removal, everything from single item pickup all the way up to commercial cleanouts. We also specialize in hoarding situations and deal with estate sale or estate cleanouts.” All of his reviews on Google are 5 star, the best you can get. This may be why as he stated, ” We try to be as understanding as we can and try to guide people and work with them even if it takes a while and we have to really be patient.“
Contact information: Facebook, CLICK HERE. Telephone: (978) 790-5081 SPRING FLYER, CLICK HERE.
- Freebies 2024
Instruction on Being a Greater Gardner MA FREEBIE “King” or “Queen” in 2024
Publisher Werner Poegel with an informative commentary on things which are FREE and how to save on the rest. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Earn FREE TVs just by saving on coffee. Get your cell service for half. Save on electricity and water. Enjoy FREE local amenities, FREE transportation, FREE concerts, FREE car washes. Borrow all sorts of media for FREE and take advantage of FREE radio.
Will you give yourself the title of FREEBIE “King” or “Queen”? Listen to our commentary and save thousands every year without giving up anything!
- The Pumps
DPW Dane Arnold on the Main water line to be replaced – first installed 136 years ago!
Main Water Pipe Project to Start After Bids Opened, Pumps Next
Gardner MA DPW Director Dane Arnold provided us with more detail on the badly needed $1 million main water line. “We open the Bid today at 1: pm. It will consist of a new 16” Cement Lined Ductile Iron Pipe to run from Crystal Lake Treatment Facility up to the Tanks up on Reservoir Hill. This line will replace a 16” line that was installed in 1888 and a portion in 1903! Construction should commence this summer and be completed by spring 2025. The City applied for and received $1 million in Grant Funds. Any additional funds to offset the cost of the project will need to come from the Water Enterprise Fund which I would need Mayor and Council approval for once we know the bid cost of the project.” Recently, the City of Gardner was also awarded a grant for new pumps at James Street – over $900k.
Arnold says he has really enjoyed working for the City of Gardner for almost 23 years: “and think we have accomplished a lot, but more is to come. I couldn’t do any of it without the great crew we have at the DPW. They are the best in the State, and I mean every word of that. They are the most dedicated and committed group and I am blessed to work with them every day. From the foremen, the crew, and the clerical staff , Gardner is very lucky to have them and so am I.”
- Appointments 3-18-24
Two Gardner Directors Speak at Appointments Committee Meeting
Both DPW Director Dane Arnold and Senior Center Director Mike Ellis were confirmed again by the Gardner City Council on March 18, 2024. The real story is the overwhelming praise given to both men by Mayor Nicholson and the Councilors at an earlier Appointments Committee meeting and the information shared by both Directors. Listen to the Appointments Committee meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DPW Director Dane Arnold was praised for doing an excellent job. He began the job in 2001 after having been appointed by then Mayor Kelly. He has served the City for over 2 decades. Arnold provided details about work at the DPW.
Senior Center Director Mike Ellis was praised for his work during the past 3 years. He was appointed to the position by Mayor Michael Nicholson. Ellis provided details about the Senior Center.
DPW Director Dane Arnold praised his staff and the City, “I love working for the city. I have a great crew.I couldn’t do anything without the DPW staff that I have and the crew that I have in the administration office, including right down at Clerical. Just a great staff and a great city to work for…. So the wastewater upgrades, the water upgrades between the distribution system. Right down to the parks and playgrounds that we’ve worked on and continually try to work on. I’m very proud of my staff. I can’t reiterate how happy I am with the crew that I have, the DPW staff that I have.” Arnold spoke of the million dollar grant paving the way for work on the new water transmission line by early Summer and the $900k+ grant recently awarded for the James Street pump station. He also spoke of planned work on paving, potholes, and sidewalks.
Senior Center Director Mike Ellis provided some statistics on the people who come to the Center in a given year. “1,600 people come into the center. 784 of them were between the ages of 60 and 78. 567 are 75 and older, and under 59 were 99, and then we have an unknown 147. I think the important thing there to note, though, is we get about 50% of people who sign in or swipe into our system. So if you look at the numbers, it’s about 3,100 people served. But more importantly, we had, and this is an amazing stat, we had 640 VIP hours at the Senior Center. We had 405 volunteers that gave 10,500 hours to the Gardner Senior Center. If you do the math, at $20 an hour, because we have nurses and case managers and social workers who make certainly more than $20, and then we have folks that just help move tables. The minimum value of that to the citizens of Gardner and the Senior Center is about $206,000 in volunteer work.” Ellis related more details about the staff, volunteers, services, and programs at the Senior Center.
- Council 3-18-24
Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas Invokes Section 24 at Gardner City Council Meeting
Based on Section 24 of the City Charter (shown in graphic here) Council President Kazinskas clarified that a majority of City Council is required for 1st printing, thus the vote of 7-3 at meeting of March 4, 2024 was sufficient to get Marijuana Zoning Article to next step. For convenience, here is her explanation and apology from the March 18, 2024 meeting. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY. (Entire meeting AUDIO is further below)
While the CDBG Block Grant Resolution was approved, Councilor George Tyros objected to the lack of the informal meeting which had been scheduled but was subsequently canceled. —- Cyber Security item and Grant writer item were sent to Finance Committee for study and report —- The $625,000 request for a new salt shed was approved by a unanimous vote. —- Adopted and sent to 2nd printing were the Two Zoning Articles: adding Sports Betting to the table of uses and increasing the quota of Marijuana Establishments to 35% of the total liquor licenses allowed. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
The Complete Gardner MA City Charter on pdf from which the above screenshot was made, CLICK HERE. —- Massachusetts Law Relating to Zoning Changes, CLICK HERE. —- Gardner City Code, CLICK HERE.
- Transformer Shortage
Listen to the Transformer Special Report on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The “Shocking” Story of the Transformer Shortage in Greater Gardner MA and the United States
Publisher Werner Poegel speaks to our AI, Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers about various reports on this issue. Listen to the report on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Key Impacts of the Transformer Shortage Completed homes sit empty as builders wait for distribution transformers. Delays connection of wind and solar farms to the grid. Delays grid expansion and impacts grid reliability. Negatively impacts national security due to reliance on overseas suppliers. Grid resilience hinges on securing a consistent, secure, and reliable supply chain. There are concerns that a coordinated assault on the American grid would not only affect civilians but would also critically harm essential military installations. The cascading effects could jeopardize homeland defense missions, posing a grave threat to national security.
- Bombaci 3-18-24
Progress in Downtown Gardner – Interview with Jon Bombaci on March 18, 2024
We had the honor of speaking with Jon Bombaci of Candor Realty on March 18, 2024. The reason was some big news happening in the Bull Nose Building at 25 Main Street, the arrival this summer or fall of a brand new Coffee Shop, Restaurant, and Bakery. It will be the third location for Brilla who currently operate in Holden and Northborough. The spot will be about 3500 – 4000 square feet upon completion is planned to be by October or sooner. Listen to the complete interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Bombaci stated, “They’re a great, great established coffee shop, but they’re going to be launching a full-scale restaurant in the building, complete with a whole bunch of other things that they’re experimenting with down in their Holden location. So we’re excited…. so I think they’re going to go from breakfast all the way through dinner. They’re planning to serve alcohol. They’re planning to kind of be open for whatever it is you want, and having a changing menu from breakfast, lunch, to dinner. They’re already experimenting with this in Holden, and they found some success at it, and so we’re kind of looking forward to helping them launch full service, three meals a day type of a space.”
Other plans for the 25 Main Street building include setting aside 800 square feet for Candor Realty offices. The second and third floor are going to be apartments with a total of 14 units of mostly two bedroom units. Press Release from Candor Realty regarding Brilla.
The Garbose Building
Bombaci spoke about progress on the building. “ We’re working on a couple of leases, but should have announcement over a business moving into what is 8 Parker. That will kind of complete the ground floor. Upstairs, the framing is going on, but we’re kind of at a little bit of a stop where the buildings require a tremendous amount of electricity, which makes sense. And so the holdup at the moment is we’re working with National Grid on sourcing power.” The issue is that with using more electricity to heat and cool, National Grid needs to provide a new transformer. There’s actually a shortage of transformers nationwide which is holding up building. Aside from rough framing and inspections, they will wait “until we can get a firm timeline from National Grid on when we’ll be able to energize the building.” We found an excellent article from Builder on this Nationwide issue, CLICK HERE. Apparently, the shortage of transformers has even slowed down the completion of single family homes.
Other Buildings
82-84 Main Street, a vacant commercial building. “There’s two spaces there that we’re working on filling, and then there’s a basement with a walkout to the back, which is kind of cool.” 88 Main Street is where they have their current offices. Work was wrapped up in 2023 at 104 Parker Street where the Buffer Zone hair salon is.
Real Estate Forecast
Jon Bombaci was very honest in that it is hard to predict the direction of the Real Estate market, but “The real estate market in 2024 is ramping up…There’s a lot of people out looking at houses. The buyer demand is there. Rates haven’t come down yet. So that’s kind of kept people in check a little bit.”
Mission of the Company
Jon Bombaci spoke about his company: “Historically, what our focus is value-add multifamily. We like buying two to 50-unit type buildings, fixing some operational problems, increasing the building, make them safer, update them, make them more comfortable for everybody, and then either pass them off to our investors or refinance them and do those types of things. We have a full service team where we do in-house construction, we do in-house property management, and we’re getting to the point that we’re offering those services to other people. So we’ve historically only helped our clients, but now we’re kind of getting to the point that we can help people we don’t know. And so part of our goal is, you know, our mission is to help people reach financial independence to real estate.” Candor Realty website, CLICK HERE.
- Cyber Secure
Under Bob O’Keefe’s IT Leadership, Gardner, MA is setting another Gold Standard for Excellence, this time in how it handles Cyber Security and attempts to be ahead of the curve and ahead of the threats.
Publisher’s Note; With threats from hackers within the United States and concerns about possible cyber attacks from other countries such as China or Russia, being proactive now saves money later.
Gardner’s IT Director O’Keefe is Proactive Cyber Protector
Gardner Magazine recently visited Gardner MA IT Director Bob O’Keefe at Gardner City Hall. O’Keefe didn’t have much time to talk because they were in the middle of doing proactive security updates on City-owned computers. In the few short minutes we were there, another 4 machines were patched. O’Keefe explained that he occasionally gets calls from other communities regarding their security needs. And as Gardner is the model for doing it right (our words, not his) he is able to steer them in the right direction. O’Keefe’s goal when operating system updates come out is to update machines as soon as possible. This has kept the City’s data safe. We were amazed at how O’Keefe was able to tell just how many machines had already been secured. While other communities were just getting started, Gardner was already 85% done.
On Monday, March 18, 2024, there is a request going before the City Council for just over $77k for a cloud storage appliance and about 3 years of support, as well as a few other related Cyber Security items. The equipment features 36 terrabytes of storage and can handle 10 gigabytes of bandwidth. The firm O’Keefe proposes using just built a new 10 million dollar facility in the last year. WCA Solutions was started in 1979 and employs 140 computer professionals at its location in Southwick, MA. The provider states it was rated recently by VarBusiness magazine as being a high level engineering firm in the largest 1% of all Solution Providers in North America. In the past, the Gardner City Council has approved these requests expeditiously. Bob O’Keefe has an office in Gardner City Hall and in the past year saw the City get a $200,000 fiber grant which allows for greater connectivity and security among City Buildings and Schools.
- Fictional 7
Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater Episode 7 Shopping Shenanigans – Joe and Don Grocery Shopping
Joe and Don are back with a visit to the grocery store to get food for a meal with the ladies. As usual, they trade barbs back and forth. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
In a world that often feels divided, Joe and Don serve as a reminder that unity and enjoyment can be found in the most unexpected places. Their story is a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of cherishing the moments of connection that bring us closer together. If Joe and Don can get along, so can the rest of us.
This was a work of fiction presented by Gardner Magazine. Episodes 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 are also available on Fictional Fun page, CLICK HERE.
- Clearing Record
Listen to the explanation Council President Kazinskas gave on WGAW Hotline Radio on Saturday, March 16, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
WGAW Hotline Radio is heard every Saturday from 12:10 to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and live streamed to anywhere in the world. CLICK HERE for the 24/7 live stream.
Council President Kazinskas Clears Up Record – Marijuana Article Passed After All
In an interview heard on WGAW Hotline Radio on Saturday, March 16, 2024, Gardner MA City Council President Kazinskas announced she was correcting an error – Marijuana Quota Article only needed simple majority to pass for first printing, not 2/3 of Council as previously stated, so she’s clearing up the record and the item passed. At the previous City Council Meeting of March 4, 2024, she had announced that 8 votes out of 11 were required and that the measure did not pass because it received only 7 votes. The item will be on the agenda for 2nd Printing on Monday March 18th. Kazinskas says that will need 8 votes to be finalized. See complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.
The Council President stated, “And then we also have one regarding the quota of marijuana establishments in the city. And I do want to take the time now to clear something up on that. There’s a process for these type of ordinance amendments and there is an initial printing. and then there is a second and final printing that these amendments have to go through. And at our previous meeting, I had announced for both of these that there’s a two-thirds vote that is required for them. And so the motion that was taken on both of these amendments was to go to first printing. And the sports betting ordinance amendment had received more than two-thirds vote so that passed the first printing. And then the marijuana establishment quota ordinance amendment had received seven votes, eight votes of the two-thirds vote. So I had announced that it did not go to first printing because it didn’t receive the two-thirds vote that’s required. “
“Well directly after the meeting, I’m speaking with the clerk, and we did go back and look at it where for initial printing, there actually no vote is required by the general laws of the commonwealth. And in Gardner, we require a vote for an initial printing, which is first printing. But it actually is only a majority vote for six votes. And in the case of that particular item, it would have passed because it received seven votes. So what’s important is that people may not be expecting this item to be on our agenda again at the next meeting because I had announced that it needed a two-thirds vote for that initial printing or first printing. But that’s actually incorrect. It actually doesn’t require a vote at all. But in Gardner, because our rules are a little bit more stringent, then that rule gets followed and it really only requires a majority vote, which is six votes. So I will be clearing that up at the meeting on Monday. I wanted to mention it because these have been on our agenda for a very long time. They’re important items. This is a zoning ordinance amendment, which has a state process that it follows. This is the very last kind of stage of it. And so, again, it’s important to people. We don’t do them very often … We haven’t had them in front of us very often. So that is the process. And I did notify the council about that. I will be clearing it up at the next meeting. And the second and final printing vote that will be taken on both of these items, that requires a two-thirds vote, and that is by state statute, which the city also has as well. So those final printings, which would pass them, require eight votes. So we’ll see what happens on Monday’s meeting, but I did want to take some time to acknowledge that.”
- Brilla Coffee
Construction is expected to begin shortly and approvals from the City have been obtained.
Mayor Nicholson stated he has worked directly with Mr. and Mrs. Vallejos for several years to bring them to Gardner, “When I was first sworn in as Mayor in July of 2020, I invited Alexis and Osiris to attend the ceremony and spoke when them about looking at downtown for a new storefront…”
Brilla Coffee to open Coffee Shop and Bakery at 25 Main Street in Gardner MA
In a Press Release sent out on Saturday, March 16, 2024, Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated, “They have a really strong business model and a great product, and I’m excited to welcome them here to the Chair City.” View Press Release, CLICK HERE.
Brilla Coffee currently has locations in Holden and Northborough, Massachusetts. Owners Alexis and Osiris Vallejos say “We are third generation farmers from Nicaragua, Coffee Roasters, and professional baristas which allows us to know and control our Coffee quality very well from the Farm to your Cup.”
Planned offerings include a full menu ranging from breakfast to dinner with meals and sandwiches and “more unique and healthy options such as granola bowls.” Pastries and desserts will be baked in-house at the new 25 Main Street, Gardner location.
- Update 3-15-24
Mayor Nicholson spoke of various City events and also had a big announcement: The City has been awarded a $920,000 grant by the Federal government to replace the James Street pump station. “that gets the water from the storage tanks on top of James Street and Reservoir Hill out into the north section of the City.” Last year, the City was awarded a $1 million grant to replace the City’s main water transmission line.
Publisher’s note: The plural of flyer is either “fliers” or “flyers”
With Event Fliers on Display and Sporting St. Patrick’s Day Attire, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
In his March 15, 2024 Update, Mayor Nicholson spoke of various events, provided some reminders, updates, and announcements. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
The Fliers: AED Foundation- website – First Annual Everyone Wins Tournament Taking Place on March 23rd at Golf RX, 109 Main Street. $75 per person or $300 per team FLYER, CLICK HERE Purple Paws – 2nd Annual Event takes place on Saturday April 27th from 9:30am to noon at Pulaski Park – FLYER, CLICK HERE. Health and Wellness Fair– April 17th 5pm to 7pm at Gardner City Hall Perry Auditorium. FLYER, CLICK HERE. FREE MART transportation available at City Hall is a bus stop.
Reminders: Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony March 29th at 10am in front of Gardner City Hall —Keep America Beautiful Cleanup taking place on Saturday, May 4th. More Info —- During the first week of April, April 2nd through the 5th, the annual yard waste collection cycle starts. —- Pick up your dog waste, Mayor’s been getting calls about you. —- Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday July 13, 2024 from noon to 7pm. ARTICLE CLICK HERE —- VIPS Program is accepting applications – Gardner residents can work hours at City Hall and get a discount on property taxes. More info from city of Gardner, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Municipal Golf Course has its artificial grass driving range open. The Golf Course was discussed at a recent Public Welfare Committee Meeting, CLICK HERE.
For previous updates, please visit the Mayor’s Update AUDIO page. We list every update from 2022, 2023, and 2024 with a link to the individual article and the ability to play any update you choose. For the page, CLICK HERE.
- Safety 3-15-24
Public Safety Update on Police – Fire- Traffic – Building – Health in Gardner MA
The Committee met with various individuals of the following departments. Note that the recording started with Chief McAvene already in progress, so our AUDIO starts similarly. Access on any device. CLICK PLAY
Councilors Dana Heath, Karen Hardern, and Craig Cormier heard from various department heads.
Police Department – Police Chief Eric McAvene —- Building Department – Building Commissioner Tom Zuppa —- Public Health – Health Director Micah Blondeau —- Fire Department – Fire Chief Greg Lagoy —- Traffic Commission – Deputy Police Chief Nicholas Maroni
From Police Chief McAvene – The chief reported that the Police headquarters building is starting to have some wear and tear issues. “We replaced the post caps on the front of the building because they were cracking and separating and it must have been just a faulty cap piece when they put it in it was a precast. Didn’t have rebar in or something and as the water got in and froze it would just completely expand..” The police department has been successful in interacting with the community. Examples the Chief gave were the Senior Citizens Academy and another Junior Academy is planned for mid-July and that is grant-funded. Staffing is at 31, they are authorized for 33. “So these next two hires will bring us the full staff.”
From Building Commissioner Tom Zuppa – “We are still Trying to hire a second local inspector in order to provide the proper services and protection to the city.” Zuppa also spoke about City Hall maintenance being a hurdle including an outdated heating system, roofing, front facade columns, and front entry way. The Commissioner also noted that many more items related to building can be completed online and “We’re adding more as we move forward.”
From Health Director Micah Blondeau. 54 Vendors are signed up so far for the Health and Wellness Fair to be held on the 17th of April. A week later there is a Gardner High School Health Fair on April 24th. Other items include an AED Foundation fundraiser, Escape the Vape, Game Changers, and Heal Gardner. Blondeau also spoke about various challenges at the landfill including the pumping systems and erosion control. The Director also informed the Committee that “We finished grinding of the yard waste, the wood, and brush, and trees…. It was last done in 2020.” Blondeau is also hoping for a better structure for where the attendant sits and some real running water, “Currently there’s the only water out there is on spigot on the side of one of the sheds so they don’t have any place to wash their hands.” The restroom there is actually a porta-potty.
From Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy. The Fire Department is “Currently fully staffed, which is definitely good news.” The chief went over the specifics regarding equipment being put into service. “ On the fleet side of things, the new fire apparatus that was ordered with ARPA funds about two years ago, all three units are now well into production, the ambulance is scheduled for delivery here in early May, which we desperately need, and the new engine and heavy rescue, they’re both scheduled for delivery in July. After that, each one of those units will have to have final equipment mounting, radio installation, and then the firefighters will have to train on them and they’ll go in service.” The Chief also informed the Committee that temporary repairs to the roof have been completed and it is weather-tight at this point.
- Fictional 5
Joe and Don at Gardner City Hall – Gardner Magazine Fictional Theater
Our couple goes to Gardner City Hall to do some errands and end up running in to Don and Joe, who don’t get a job but look for a burger place. Our couple meets some really great people at Gardner City Hall and the husband gets a job with DPW. Listen to the adventures of this couple who run in to Don and Joe on any device, CLICK PLAY
The production is entirely fiction. Send suggestions for future episodes and ideas for real news stories to News@GardnerMagazine.com
More Information About City of Gardner
For more information about services available from the City of Gardner and how to reach various departments and various officials, CLICK HERE for the website.
- Break 3-13-24
Water Main Break From City of Gardner 7:57pm 3-13-24: “This is a message from the City of Gardner. Crews are currently responding to a water main break on Union Street in the area of Linwood Street between Winter Street and Timpany Boulevard. Residents in the area may experience water shut off while repairs are being made. Repairs and shut off may last through the night to morning. Thank you for your patience while construction is happening”
- Cactus Giveaway
A Unique promotion – Artist and Photographer Carolyn Kamuda to give away Cactii.
On Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 11am to 2pm, Carolyn Kamuda will be showcasing various works at her gallery at 400 Pleasant Street in Gardner. Just for stopping by you get a FREE Cactus plant. (One per person) Facebook Event listing, CLICK HERE.
This will also be an opportunity for the public to wish Kamuda well since her resignation from the Gardner City Council just 2 months ago due to health and family reasons. Previous article, CLICK HERE.
- Solutions 3-13-24
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson discusses real solutions to real problems. Many cities and towns are trying to emulate the Gardner Model of transparency, financial stability, and incoming grants which reduce taxpayer burdens. CLICK PLAY.
Real People. Real Problems. Real Solutions. The “Solutions” Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.
On March 13, 2024 we spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about issues directly affecting Gardner residents. Listen to the “Solutions’ Interview on any device. CLICK PLAY
We spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson at his office in City Hall about issues directly affecting Gardner residents including transportation, housing, parking, grant funding helping Gardner, Maintaining City Buildings including Waterford and Helen Mae Sauter, the Waterford story including ADA accessibility and project status, goals for 2024, the Rickity Salt Shed, and various initiatives providing solutions to real problems. The Mayor is open to Gardner doing anything to help the homeless and we discuss.
Mayor Nicholson spoke of the upcoming budget and the internal procedures involved in coming up with a budget to present to the City Council.
The Grant Bonanza
The Gardner City Council had approved $60,000 for a 3rd party grant writer. The City has spent $25,000 of that. Total return so far, $2.7 million. As a result of this success, the Mayor will be submitting a proposal to the City Council for an additional grant writer to specialize in one area so both State and Federal grants can be covered, “the best bang for our buck.”
- Footsteps 2 Brilliance
Gardner Public Schools Posts About Pre-K to Third Grade Literacy Program
Gardner Public Schools posted about Footsteps 2 Brilliance posting, “is a great resource for our students and is absolutely FREE for families to use. The app helps students access literacy curriculum through games and reading materials that help make learning fun!” Parents can register their child at this link, click here to register:
The free literacy app is available in both English and Spanish and is directed to the pre-k to third grade group. The company’s trademark phrase is “Big Brains for Little People”.
Footsteps 2 Brilliance has a YouTube Channel with over 100 videos about the resource, some directed at parents, and some specifically for students. CLICK HERE.
The AUDIO of the Gardner School Committee meeting of March 11, 2024 contains the presentation of Gardner Elementary School Principal Earl Martin, CLICK HERE.
- School 3-11-24
School Committee Hears from Principal Earl Martin of Gardner Elementary School
At a meeting of March 11, 2024, the Gardner MA School Committee heard a presentation from Earl Martin, the Principal of Gardner Elementary School. MTSS refers to Multi-tiered systems of support. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
In the packet and agenda for the Gardner School Committee meeting for Monday, March 11, 2024, CLICK HERE for pdf, extensive information is provided on the Program of Studies and Curriculum and various policies.
Gardner Magazine has a companion article on the Mission of the Gardner Public Schools, CLICK HERE.
- Lore Exhibit
Landscape Artist Mark Lore Comes to Gardner Museum in Gardner MA
For 5 decades, local artist Mark Lore has created art. On March 10, 2024 he greeted visitors to the Gardner Museum to open a featured exhibit of his work which will be on display through May 26th.
Gardner Museum posted, “How lovely it was to open the museum back up after our winter break! We called and many people came: Our first event this season, the opening reception for our spring exhibit, was a huge success. Don’t miss Mark Lore‘s wonderful solo-exhibit! It is open during our regular hours until May 26.” Previous Article
At Mark Lore’s website, CLICK HERE, the artist showcases original oil and acrylic works, canvas prints, drawings, murals, note cards, and greeting cards.
The Gardner Museum has an active year planned. For more information including the Preliminary 2024 Spring Lecture Series Schedule on pdf, CLICK HERE. Schedule is subject to change, but this is the latest available.
For the Gardner MA Museum website, CLICK HERE. The Gardner Museum opened for the season on March 1, 2024. An annual membership is: Student -$1, Individual -$20, or Family $30.
Nearby Communities and the Region
Templeton – Phillipston – Winchendon – Ashburnham – Westminster – Hubbardston
Most recent stories of nearby communities will be shown here. For more info, visit individual town page.
Area Communities
- Ashburnham Survey
Ashburnham is conducting a Downtown Inititiative: Wayfinding and Branding Survey
The Town of Ashburnham with the assistance of the Massachusetts Downtown Initiative (MDI), is working on branding the Downtown and creating a distinct visual identity for Main Street and the Village Center. These design elements will be incorporated into a revamped wayfinding system throughout Downtown. For this project we have joined forces with two consulting teams, Innes Associates and LANDAU Design+Technology..
The Town sponsored a workshop on March 26, 2024 to discuss options for updating wayfinding signage throughout the Downtown. This survey is designed to get your input on these 5 types of wayfinding signage: Town Recognition, Downtown Recreational, Town Destination, Downtown Recognition, and Destination Directional. For much more information and to take the survey, CLICK HERE.
- Hubbardston FY25
The Town of Hubbardston Fiscal Year 2025 Budget is available for review here. CLICK HERE.
From the Town of Hubbardston “Developing an annual budget is a complex process that involves making difficult tradeoffs and prioritizing competing needs with limited resources. Hubbardston is fortunate to have an Open Town Meeting governance system that empowers all registered voters to directly participate in this process and exercise their decision-making authority. By engaging in the budget development process, citizens can help shape the future of their community and ensure that tax dollars are spent in a manner that aligns with the communities values and goals.”
- Westminster 4-4-24
Welcome to Westminster Event
The Town of Westminster is having a “Welcome to Westminster” event on Thursday April 4, 2024 at the Forbush Memorial Library at 118 Main Street. It’s an opportunity to meet town leadership, find out what’s happening in the community, and check out various activities and places to explore.
- Templeton 3-28-24
Town of Templeton Report for 3-28-24 CLICK HERE. The Town Administrator is working on the final draft for the Town Meeting Warrant. The Highway Department did catch basin and culvert cleaning, pothole repairs, and took a ride to show the possible paving plan for the next fiscal year. Public Safety calls are detailed.
Town of Templeton Report for 3-21-24 CLICK HERE. Includes information from Board of Health, Conservation Commission, Building Department, Community and Senior Services,
Board of Selectmen meets on April 10th.
- Winchendon 3-26-24
Consecutive Night Meetings
The Winchendon Board of Selectmen met on March 25, 2024 for 1 ½ hours. . Meeting concerned appointments, permit-license applications, a presentation of Beal’s Memorial Library, Nicole Roberts update regarding Planning and Development, various new business, continued discussions on the landfill, and a 2nd review of the Town Manager Goals and Objectives. Complete Agenda, CLICK HERE. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
The Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee held a joint meeting on March 26, 2024 at which the fiscal year 2025 Final Budget was presented. As usual there were member comments and public comments. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY
- Bus in Barre
Motor Vehicle and Bus Collide in Barre – No Serious Injuries Reported
Barre Police reported in a Press Release that at about 7:15am on March 28, 2024, a school bus “was struck by a vehicle which crossed the center line, causing the bus to lose control and strike a guardrail and trees. There were students on the bus at the time. No one was seriously injured though the students were evaluated and one was transported as a precaution.” View Complete Press Release, CLICK HERE. The operator of the vehicle which struck the bus was placed in custody and is facing a number of charges enumerated in the Press Release.
The Hubbardston Fire Department had posted, “A2 responded mutual aid to West St in Barre this morning to assist with a motor vehicle collision involving a fully loaded school bus. A2 evaluated multiple patients and transported one with non life threatening injuries to Heywood Hospital. … We are very thankful that there were no serious injuries in this crash.”
- Bus – Hubbardston
Bus in the ditch – No Injures – in Hubbardston MA
A bus got itself in the ditch on New Templeton Road in Hubbardston on March 20, 2024.
According to a Press Release from Hubbardston Police Chief Ryan Couture, (SEE COMPLETE RELEASE, CLICK HERE), the bus operator attempted to pull over to the side of the road when a few children were acting up. The bus then became stuck in the mud and had to be pulled out. Hubbardston Police and Fire were on the scene. None of the 33 passengers on the bus were injured.
- Ashburnham Sidewalks
Ashburnham Police Department posted on Sunday March 17, 2024: “Just a reminder that construction will begin tomorrow, 3/18 from 7a-3p for the sidewalk renovation project in the downtown Main St area. Please use caution and seek alternative routes if possible. Thank you!”
- Templeton Reports 3-14-24
A Report on the Town of Templeton MA – March 14, 2024
Some reminders: The Fiscal year 2025 286 page Budget Book is available on the town website or you can view the pdf here, CLICK HERE.. The last day to take out nomination papers for Annual Town Election is Thursday, March 28th. All dogs 6 months or older need to be licensed by Monday, April 1st.
With Spring approaching, some road work has already begun. The highway Department reported “Pothole repairs Hamel Mill Bridge, Main Street bridge, Baptist Common Road, Liberty Street, Beech Street, Winchester Street, Barre Road, Baldwinville Road, and Upper Otter River. Clean catch basins and culvert pipes Baldwinville Road, Otter River Road, and Turner Street. Cut and chip trees on Brooks Road, and Baldwinville Road. Cleared a section of the ditch on Baptist Common. Spot treated roads where needed. Fixed ditch on Maple Street. Clear grates on Royalston Road and Henshaw Road due to beaver activity. Cut tree down at Greenlawn Cemetery with Buildings and Grounds.” The Templeton Select Board will meet on March 27, 2024. Templeton Town Manager Adam Lamontagne issues a report every week. View Complete Report on pdf for 3-14-24, CLICK HERE.
- Winchendon BOS 3-11-24
Complete Agenda, CLICK HERE. (Note: We are working with Town of Winchendon to get quality of document improved.)
Winchendon Select Board Meets 3-11-24
The Winchendon Board of Selectmen met on March 11, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
- Cleanup Grants
Technical Assistance Grants Awardees Include Town of Westminster MA
According to State of MA, the town of Westminster is receiving $20,000: “Westminster will use its award to engage technical expertise to review and interpret disposal site documents and information for the Bean Porridge Hill Road Area disposal site to increase public awareness by serving as a resource to town officials and the public. Contaminants of concern include PFAS impacting residential drinking water wells. “ Each of the grants awarded for 2024 support effective public involvement during the assessment and cleanup of oil and hazardous material disposal sites. More details from State of MA Website, CLICK HERE.
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bonnie Heiple stated, “We’re pleased to make this resource available to inform and empower municipal officials and citizen groups to meaningfully participate in local assessment and cleanup efforts.”
Each of the grants are in the amount of $20,000. Here is the list of communities who were awarded the grant. To Westfield “ Westfield Residents Advocating for Themselves will use its award to engage technical expertise to review and interpret disposal site documents and information for the Barnes Air National Guard Base “, to Greater Hynanis Civic Association, “to engage technical expertise to review and interpret disposal site documents and information for the Cape Cod Gateway Municipal Airport, “ to Lunt Neighborhood Action Group for Greenfield, “to engage technical expertise to evaluate and interpret existing information about the Former Lunt Silversmith Site in Greenfield to encourage better public participation in the ongoing cleanup.”, for Town of Barnstable “to engage technical expertise to review and evaluate site documents for the Barnstable County Fire Training Academy disposal site”, for Town of Carlisle Board of Health, “to obtain technical expertise to review and evaluate environmental data from the former Daisy Gasoline Station disposal site’, Duxbury Safe Water Committee, Inc. “will use its award to engage technical expertise to review and interpret disposal site documents and information for the Former Duxbury Landfill (McNeil Dump) and the Duxbury Municipal Landfill.”, and Town of Lee, “Lee will use its award to engage technical expertise to review and interpret information about the Upland Disposal Facility, an area permitted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for storage of contaminated sediments from the Housatonic River Superfund Site.
- Westminster 3-11-24
The Westminster Newsletter – the South Street Sentinel, covers a number of town topics in its 14 pages, CLICK HERE.
News of Westminster, Massachusetts
Westminster announces in the latest edition of The South Street Sentinel that it has attained a AAA Bond Rating from S&P Global Ratings. From the newsletter, “This is the highest possible rating a municipality can receive and this recognition reflects our strong fiscal management, prudent financial practices, and steadfast commitment to excellence…” Read the 14 page Newsletter – The South Street Sentinel, CLICK HERE.
In other Westminster news, the town is looking for photos for its 2023 Annual Town Report. Email (along with a name for credit) to Tchiarelli@westminster-ma.gov. Publication is anticipated in May 2024. Previous Town Reports can be found here, CLICK HERE.
Summer Farmers’ Market applications are available – it runs Friday afternoons from 3-6pm beginning in May and going through October. Rules and Regulations —- Crafters’ Application — Producers’ Application
- Winchendon Select Board 2-26-24
The Winchendon Select Board met on February 26, 2024 in a more than 3 hour meeting.
There was considerable discussion about the landfill and concerns about trucks and contamination to residents.
Order is as follows: Selectmen’s comments and announcements —- public comments and announcements — public hearings — appointments and resignations —- Permit – license applications — Boards – Committees – Commissions — New Business —- Old Business —- Town Manager’s Report —- Minutes —- Communications —- Agenda Items —- Executive Session —- Adjournment. View Complete agenda, CLICK HERE. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
- Winchendon 2-12-24
Town of Winchendon Holds Meeting with Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee
The lengthy meeting on February 12, 2024 concerned many budget matters and included a presentation by Interim Town Manager Bill McKinney on historic & projected expenses and revenues of the town. The amount of the increase in State Aid will be far less than usual and expenses are up considerably, so the Town Manager was there to share the figures with the various Boards so decisions could be made on how to proceed. The meeting also heard from School Superintendent Goguen on the School Budget. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Moonlit Hikes in Winchendon, February 24th 7pm: “Join us at the Winchendon Community Park for our Moonlit hikes! Hikes to take place under the full moon! Meet at the parking lot and be lead on a trail hike.“
Winchendon Fall Festival – complete information on Town of Winchendon website, CLICK HERE.
- Royalston – Whitney Hall
Royalston – Whitney Hall Study Complete
From Town of Royalston: “Keen Independent Research has completed its months-long marketing study of Whitney Hall. Please plan to come hear their final report at a public meeting on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 6:30 in the Upstairs Hall, Town Hall, 13 On the Common.”
- Petersham Open Space
Town of Petersham Holds Meeting on Open Space and Recreation Update
Meeting is Saturday March 2, 2:30pm to 4:30pm at Petersham Center School. It is a second round of input on the Open Space and Recreation Plan Update. Flyer and Meeting details pdf, CLICK HERE. The 2023 Survey Results of 209 residents, CLICK HERE.
- Hubbardston Safe Roads
The Hubbardston Select Board Seeking Input on Safe Roads Plan
From the Town of Hubbardston: “The Hubbardston Department of Public Works has developed a draft 5 year road plan for repairs and improvements in town. Before the Select Board considers endorsement of this plan, they would like to gather questions, suggestions and feedback from Hubbardston residents.
Please review the proposed projects that the DPW has prioritized based on engineering data and analysis. As community members, you have valuable perspectives on which roadwork should be highest priority from a neighborhood livability and daily use standpoint.
Your input will help guide the Select Board as they assess the proposed 5 year plan and decide whether to provide formal endorsement on March 4th. Thank you for voicing your views on project timelines, work needed on specific streets, overall priorities, or any other aspects of the proposal.
Please provide your feedback to bos@hubbardstonma.us by February 29th. Community guidance alongside engineering priorities helps ensure our road dollars are invested wisely.”
- Athol 2-17-24
Athol MA Proud of Its Water and the Community – Athol Update
Upcoming election information: Presidential Primary information and information on the Annual Town Election April 1, 2024. Complete Upcoming Athol Election information on printable pdf, CLICK HERE.
Athol January Properties for Sale Report, CLICK HERE for pdf. For lease report, CLICK HERE . Athol document on why I should locate a business in Athol, CLICK HERE.
The Waterwise Newsletter of April 2023 is prominently showcased on the website of the town of Athol. In it, Athol beams with pride over its water stating, “The Super Says….Drink Athol’s water: it’s better than bottled.” Read the 8 page Waterwise Newsletter on pdf, CLICK HERE.
The town of Athol has every reason to be proud as it won recognition in a Taste Test. Second Place was awarded to Athol on September 14, 2022 in the Seventeenth Annual Water Taste Competition by the Rural Water Association.
Here is a convenient Government Contacts Directory for the town of Athol, CLICK HERE.
- Ashby Electricity
Save on Electric Automatically in Ashby MA
The Town of Ashby released information on the Electricity Program. See attached pdf, CLICK HERE. Residents are automatically enrolled unless they opt out by March 20, 2024. The program saves about 8 cents per kilowatt hour.
- Ashburnham Master Plan
Ashburnham MA Working on Master Plan
As shown by these photos we took on February 15, 2024, the town of Ashburnham is a beautiful community. However, it is planning for its future in a big way. The Town of Ashburnham MA is working on its Master Plan. It has published a worksheet which asks interested citizens to “Please list any important needs, goals, or objectives that will define the future you want for Ashburnham (for each chapter of the Master Plan) PRINTABLE PDF.
Categories are: Services & Facilities, Circulation (Roadways and Transportation), Economic Development, Natural & Cultural Resources, Housing & Housing Production Plan, Land Use, and Open Space & Recreation.
The Town of Ashburnham Released the 2022 Raw Data in a 147 page pdf, CLICK HERE.
Here are pdfs of chapters being considered: Transportation —- Economic Development —- Services and Facilities —- Historical and Cultural —- Natural Resources —- Land Use — Master Plan Strategy
Looking for an older story? Or just want to read them? CLICK HERE for more Greater Gardner MA Local News Stories.
News Around the Region – Massachusetts – New England – Nation
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More News Around Gardner MA
Gardner MA is a growing City with incredible upside potential. Gardner Magazine’s Go Forward with Gardner series gives a voice to those who will influence Gardner Going Forward. CLICK for Complete page.
- Community Spotlight
Spotlight on Communities Greater Gardner MA
Gardner MA is known as the Chair City, and the other communities covered by Gardner Magazine all have something special: Ashburnham– Town of Lakes, Ashby – smallest town, Athol-the Tool Town, Barre – Town of Patriots, Gardner – The Chair City, Hardwick – Oldest Fair, Hubbardston -1015 above sea level, New Salem – Home of Quabbin Reservoir, Oakham – Coldbrook Springs, Orange – Home of Peace Statue, Petersham – Conservation, Phillipston – Historic Town Center, Princeton – Mt. Wachusett, Royalston – Forests and Falls, Rutland – Geographic Center of MA, Templeton – Town of 4 Villages, Warwick – Mt. Grace & Forest, Westminster – Historic Places, Winchendon – the Toy Town.
- Check It out
Check It Out!
Check out the pages on Gardner Magazine including Local Area Attractions, the Moving to the Area page, and Fun Photo Galleries. Kiddingly we say, ,Don’t play the fun games too long. Let us know what you like and what you’d like to see on Gardner Magazine.
- Public Meetings
Public Meetings Calendars
Gardner Magazine has a new page highlighting Public Meetings Calendars. Most communities list all upcoming meetings in handy formats. Some communities either have few meetings or are not as comprehensive. Being aware of Public Meetings is a great way to be involved in your community.
- Event Machine
Easily find Greater Gardner Events
Click on the name of a town for an EASY Google Events Search for events taking place in that community. ASHBURNHAM – ASHBY – ATHOL – BARRE – GARDNER – HARDWICK – HUBBARDSTON – NEW SALEM – OAKHAM – ORANGE – PETERSHAM – PHILLIPSTON – PRINCETON – ROYALSTON – RUTLAND – TEMPLETON – WARWICK – WESTMINSTER – WINCHENDON. A great tool to quickly find out what’s going on in the Greater Gardner region.
Massachusetts News This Week
Greater Gardner MA News Extras
- Gardner Tops 21K
Gardner MA Population Statistics
According to the U.S. Census, Gardner has a population of 21,287. Median Household Income is about $50,000. Those with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher is close to 1 in 5. More than half of the population is employed. 98% have health care coverage. There’s 9,411 total housing units with 691 vacant according to the Census Bureau. Gardner’s median estimated age of 41 is slightly above the median age in Massachusetts. One statistic to note: Average Gardner commute time is just under ½ hr. so there’s room for more local employers. For the complete census data, click here.
- Visit Gardner
Visit Downtown Gardner Video Released
To celebrate a great place to shop, Gardner Magazine has released a Downtown Gardner MA video. Watch it in full HD. CLICK HERE.
- Expanded News
Gardner Magazine news pages are generally updated twice per day and contain about 10 news stories per page. Let us know how we are doing. Contact Us.
Announcing Expanded NEWS Coverage
Added News pages include: About the U.S.: Breaking, FDA, Top Showbiz Stories, Top U.S. Stories, U.S. Economy News, U.S. News Alternate Sources: CNN, Fox, BBC. Countries of Interest: Australia, Canada, China, European Union, Mexico. Health: Health, Cancer, CDC, Climate, Covid. Neighboring States: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New York. Politicians and Politics: Bernie Sanders, Capitol Hill, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, U.S. Politics. Topics: Aliens, Money, Science, Travel, UFOs.
All News pages are listed under the tab LOCAL-STATE-U.S.-WORLD NEWS
News around Boston MA
Boston Herald Boston news, sports, politics, opinion, entertainment, weather and obituaries
- New names, same results for Needham volleyballby Tom Mulherin on March 29, 2024 at 10:36 am
NEEDHAM – The central cast of characters looked a little different, but the three-time defending Div. 1 state champion Needham boys volleyball team still opened a new season with a familiar tune Thursday night. Despite a strong start from Div. 2 powerhouse Agawam in a battle between reigning champions, depth and progressive execution once again
- Howie Carr: The fall of National Panhandler Radioby Howie Carr on March 29, 2024 at 9:13 am
What’s happening at the local whine-and-cheese outlets was described perfectly in one of Ernest Hemingway’s early novels: “How did you go bankrupt?' 'Two ways,'” Hemingway’s hero replied. “Gradually, then suddenly.”
- Tyler O’Neill makes MLB history with 5th consecutive Opening Day homerby Gabrielle Starr on March 29, 2024 at 6:12 am
SEATTLE – “I got a five-game losing streak on Opening Day, and he has a four-game home-run streak (on Opening Days) so, analytics.” That was Alex Cora’s humorous pregame explanation for putting right-handed hitting Tyler O’Neill in Thursday evening’s lineup against Mariners starter Luis Castillo. Those analytics paid off in the top of the eighth, when
- Illinois advances to Elite Eight matchup against UConn, but not afraid of tall taskby Steve Hewitt on March 29, 2024 at 5:59 am
Illinois won't have much time to celebrate its Sweet 16 win over Iowa State, as the Illini have a herculean task in front of them on Saturday against UConn.
- ‘Godzilla x King Kong’ a hectic, wild rideby Katie Walsh on March 29, 2024 at 4:43 am
About halfway through, one does get the nagging sensation that this has jumped the kaiju shark, as director Adam Wingard slams the gas and doesn’t let up.
- Massive effort to clear Baltimore bridge collapse is an ‘incredibly complex job,’ governor says. Here’s how they’ll do itby James Kukstis on March 29, 2024 at 11:47 am
Crews working to clear the steel frame of the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge and the 984-foot cargo ship that felled it face “an incredibly complex job”...
- Progressive Jewish lawmakers caught in the middle of bitter Democratic divide over Israelby James Kukstis on March 29, 2024 at 11:45 am
A month into the raging war between Israel and Hamas, Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland was facing a moral dilemma. As a Jewish lawmaker,...
- Russia protects North Korea in the UN with veto of resolution to investigate sanction violationsby James Kukstis on March 29, 2024 at 11:43 am
Russia on Thursday vetoed a United Nations resolution that would renew an independent panel of experts investigating North Korea’s violations of Security Council sanctions, at a time when Pyongyang has...
- Byron Donalds, potential VP pick, once attacked Trump and praised outsourcing, privatizing entitlementsby James Kukstis on March 29, 2024 at 11:41 am
Florida Republican Rep. Byron Donalds, a Donald Trump loyalist and one of the former president’s most trusted surrogates, is widely viewed to be on Trump’s...
- North End restaurant owners pack meeting to protest outdoor dining restrictionsby Owen Boss on March 29, 2024 at 2:11 am
More than a dozen North End restaurant owners shut down their businesses for a couple of hours Thursday to protest the city’s outdoor dining restrictions,...
In-Depth Massachusetts News Stories
Massachusetts – NECN The latest news from around the state
- Suspect in Boston police officer shooting due back in courtby Staff Reports on March 29, 2024 at 7:33 am
The 31-year-old man accused of shooting a Boston Police Department officer last week is set to appear in court Friday. Avery Lewis allegedly shot the officer on March 18, while police responded to a call regarding a person with a gun in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood. The officer, who was wearing a bulletproof vest, was taken to Boston Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries, Boston police said. The other officers on scene were able to arrest the gunman without any other injuries. Lewis, of Dorchester, was held without bail on the following day during a hearing in Dorchester District Court. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. Lewis’ dangerousness hearing is scheduled for Friday morning. More Boston news 19 hours ago North End restaurants close to protest outdoor dining restrictions 19 hours ago Boston police seek suspect in Roxbury bus stop stabbing dorchester Mar 27 Police seek man who robbed Dorchester convenience store at gunpoint
- Here's a new, ‘twisted' look at the black hole at the center of our galaxyby Asher Klein on March 29, 2024 at 7:11 am
Black holes — how do they work? New images of the magnetic field of the black hole at the center of our galaxy, the Milky Way, may help us understand them a little better. The new view of the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* that was provided by the Event Horizon Telescope suggests that all black holes have a similar structure, according to astronomers at Harvard and the Smithsonian Institute who shared the imagery on Wednesday. The imagery shows a fiery swirl around Sagittarius A*, and a similar one around another supermassive black hole, M87*, seen through polarized light, according to the research published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. The supermassive black holes M87* (left) and Sagittarius A*, seen in polarized light “What we’re seeing now is that there are strong, twisted, and organized magnetic fields near the black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy,” said Sara Issaoun, a researcher with Harvard, the Smithsonian and NASA who co-led the project, in a statement. “Along with Sgr A* having a strikingly similar polarization structure to that seen in the much larger and more powerful M87* black hole, we’ve learned that strong and ordered magnetic fields are critical to how black holes interact with the gas and matter around them.” Sagittarius A* is about 4 million times more massive than the sun, which, according to NASA, makes it a rather small black hole to be at the center of the galaxy. The origin of such supermassive black holes remains mostly an astrophysical mystery. Handout: At left, the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way Galaxy, Sagittarius A*, is seen in polarized light, the visible lines indicating the orientation of polarization, which is related to the magnetic field around the shadow of the black hole. At center, the polarized emission from the center of the Milky Way, as captured by SOFIA. At back right, the Planck Collaboration mapped polarized emission from dust across the Milky Way. The first, much blurrier view of Sagittarius A* was published in 2019 through the same tool, the Event Horizon Telescope, a collaboration between, at the time, eight observatories around the world. (It’s since grown.) The new image appears clearer through polarization, the same process that gives polarized sunglasses their clarity. The black holes emit hot gas called plasma, which is magnetized, and light bends around those magnetic fields, according to the researchers, who said in a news release that it took lots of work to capture the fast-morphing structure at the center of the Milky Way. “By imaging polarized light from hot glowing gas near black holes, we are directly inferring the structure and strength of the magnetic fields that thread the flow of gas and matter that the black hole feeds on and ejects,” Angelo Ricarte, a Harvard Black Hole Initiative fellow and project co-lead, said in a statement. “Polarized light teaches us a lot more about the astrophysics, the properties of the gas, and mechanisms that take place as a black hole feeds.” More space news Eclipse Mar 19 Can you take a picture of the solar eclipse? An astrophotographer says yes, and here's how SPACEX Mar 18 PHOTOS: San Diego residents gaze up in awe as SpaceX rocket dazzles California sky
- Truck rolls over on I-495 in Bellinghamby Staff Reports on March 29, 2024 at 6:28 am
A tractor-trailer rolled over on Interstate 495 in Bellingham, Massachusetts, early Friday morning. The incident occurred on the southbound side of I-495. It’s unclear what caused the crash or if any injuries were reported. NBC10 Boston reached out to Massachusetts State Police for more information. This story is developing and will be updated. More Bellingham news hit-and-run Feb 8 New details on Mass. hit-and-run crash seen on shocking dashcam video Bellingham Aug 3, 2023 Truck crashes into Bellingham home, driver in critical condition Bellingham Nov 16, 2022 4 Dogs Missing After House Fire in Bellingham
- Man accused of attempting to lure young girls in Swanseaby Alysha Palumbo on March 29, 2024 at 6:08 am
Police in Swansea, Massachusetts, are searching for a man they say attempted to lure young girls into his car this week. The two 13-year-old girls were walking down a bike path that runs behind the Target store next to Milford Road in Swansea, when a man approached them and asked if they wanted a ride, Swansea police said. Surveillance photos show the man’s dark blue, four-door sedan that police say is possibly a Hyundai Sonata. The man was described as being in his 60s with gray hair and an average build, according to police. The man is accused of approaching the two girls at about 2:45 p.m. Thursday as they walked down the bike path and asked them if they wanted a ride. The teens ran away from the man and toward the Target store. When officers looked at the store’s security cameras, they saw the man a few minutes earlier removing items from the front and back seats of his car and placing them in the trunk. He then allegedly walked away from the vehicle and stared down the road, in the direction of where the girls were walking, before approaching them. Anyone with information about the man or his vehicle should call the Swansea Police Department at 508-674-8464. More Swansea news Swansea Feb 20 Man arrested after attempted robbery outside bank in Swansea, police say Massachusetts Jan 21 Alleged drunk driver charged in Swansea crash that injured 20-year-old Swansea Apr 18, 2023 4 Arrested in Paintball Gun Shooting of Car in Swansea, Mass.
- Rain dries out Friday morning, with the wind picking up later in the dayby Pete Bouchard on March 29, 2024 at 5:36 am
After all these days of rain, the message has become a little stale. Thankfully, we’re focused on terms like drying, brightening and warming in the days ahead. That said, Friday’s a struggle for the last two items. Rain will shut off quickly this morning, but the sun will struggle to take charge of the skies for the reminder of the day. Warming is another matter. 50 is within reach, but just barely As our storm departs, the wind will pick up later Friday afternoon and overnight. Saturday features a blustery start, with winds easing a bit in the afternoon. This will be the pick of the holiday weekend as highs recover to the low and mid 50s by afternoon. A quick-moving weather system will roll in during the night and lay down few early showers for sunrise services and Easter bonnets in the morning. Once again, sun will prevail for the afternoon (mixed with clouds) as highs recover to the low 50s. Next week continues on a soggy path. A storm arriving Tuesday will develop into a major offshore nor’easter in the Gulf of Maine by Wednesday and early Thursday. Initially, it’s rain but the potential is for snow to emerge as the storm intensifies. Right now, it seems that northern New England has the best chance for significant accumulation, but we’ll watch the track and evolution very closely through the holiday weekend. Either way, the end of the week and the following weekend look good. As does the eclipse on the April 8. We may even be treated to a warming trend by then. Imagine that. Have a great weekend!
National News
The Washington Times stories: News The Washington Times stories: News
- 5 dead and over 100 hospitalized from recalled Japanese health supplementsby Yuri Kageyama on March 29, 2024 at 7:27 am
In the week since a line of Japanese health supplements began being recalled, five people have died and more than 100 people were hospitalized as of Friday.
- Obama, Clinton and big-name entertainers help Biden raise a record $26 million for his reelectionby Colleen Long, Chris Megerian on March 29, 2024 at 3:56 am
Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and some big names from the entertainment world teamed up Thursday night to deliver a rousing New York embrace of President Joe Biden that hauled in a record-setting $26 million-plus for his reelection campaign.
- Filipino villager to be nailed to a cross for the 35th time on Good Friday to pray for world peaceby Jim Gomez on March 29, 2024 at 3:10 am
A Filipino villager plans to be nailed to a wooden cross for the 35th time to reenact Jesus Christ's suffering in a brutal Good Friday tradition he said he would devote to pray for peace in Ukraine, Gaza and the disputed South China Sea.
- Tony Bobulinski, Hunter Biden's ex-business partner, sues Fox News' Jessica Tarlov for $30 millionby Victor Morton on March 29, 2024 at 2:59 am
Hunter Biden's former business partner is suing liberal Fox News Channel commentator Jessica Tarlov over false remarks she made last week on "The Five."
- Ukraine's soccer win provides welcome distraction from tragedy of waron March 29, 2024 at 1:11 am
Ukrainians have expressed pride and gratitude toward their men's national soccer team for qualifying for the European Championship, a rare bit of good news and a welcome distraction from the war with Russia.
NPR News
NPR Topics: News NPR news, audio, and podcasts. Coverage of breaking stories, national and world news, politics, business, science, technology, and extended coverage of major national and world events.
- The White House issued new rules on how government can use AI. Here's what they doby Deepa Shivaram on March 29, 2024 at 9:21 am
The memo outlines how government agencies can implement artificial intelligence and requires that agencies have a chief AI officer.
- Bad news, chocolate lovers: Cocoa prices have risen faster than bitcoinby Alina Selyukh on March 29, 2024 at 9:01 am
It's been a wild historic ride: The price of cocoa topped the all-time record before Valentine's Day and has almost doubled since then, in time for Easter. The culprit is the weather.
- Boiling weeds, eating animal feed: People in Gaza stave off hunger any way they canby Fatma Tanis on March 29, 2024 at 9:01 am
Palestinians in Gaza tell NPR they've resorted to boiling weeds in seawater, eating animal feed and grinding date pits. "If the bombs don't kill us, the hunger will," a teenage girl says.
- Looking for Cinderella? Here's the biggest underdog left in March Madnessby Becky Sullivan on March 29, 2024 at 9:00 am
North Carolina State isn't a prototypical Cinderella — they're from a major conference, and they won it all in the 1970s and '80s — but they're the only double-digit seed left. Learn to love them.
- A comedian, a pug and a politician walk into the quiz. Do you know the punchline?by Holly J. Morris on March 29, 2024 at 9:00 am
Is Kevin Hart funny? Are pugs cute? Is Donald Trump a good politician? Thankfully, the quiz doesn't need to answer these questions — we'll just stick to the facts, thanks.
North County MA News
- ‘More special than anything’by Cheryl A. Cuddahy on March 29, 2024 at 8:24 am
FITCHBURG — Rob Haneisen believes in having fun, feeling good, and most importantly helping others along the way. “That’s the whole point in life, right?” Haneisen, a Fitchburg resident, and a first-time participant of this year’s Boston Marathon, said rhetorically. Haneisen’s love of running began – sort of by chance – when he started taking
- Celebrating National Vietnam War Veterans Dayby Submitted Article on March 29, 2024 at 7:22 am
PEPPERELL — National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed every year on March 29, and it is a way to thank and honor our nation’s Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Commemorative events like wreath-laying ceremonies, speeches, and luncheons are held to mark the occasion at venues that include the Vietnam
- St. Bernard’s High School announces new principalby Submitted Article on March 29, 2024 at 7:19 am
FITCHBURG — Following a nationwide search, St. Bernard’s High School announced its next visionary leader and 20th principal earlier this month – Joseph Cussen. Cussen, who is currently located in Seattle, Washington, is returning to his roots this summer to take the helm at the school effective July 1st. Cussen is a native of Arlington
- Editorial: Medicare benefit should ease seniors’ health-cost burdenby Editorial on March 29, 2024 at 4:48 am
In an effort to make Massachusetts “a more affordable state to grow older,” the Healey administration recently unveiled a new Medicare program that could help save senior citizens up to $3,000 annually in health-care costs. The new Medicare Saving Program, administered by MassHealth, will pay for some or all of Medicare beneficiaries’ premiums and other
- Community Calendarby Cheryl A. Cuddahy on March 29, 2024 at 4:23 am
Friday, March 29 Parent & Me Yoga: 10:15 a.m.; Thayer Memorial Library, 717 Main St., Lancaster. Explore yoga and movement through mindful themes, poses, songs, and a story. Led by Valerie Kacian. 978-368-8928. Little Scientists STEAM Play Group: 10:30 a.m.; Lawrence Library, 15 Main St., Pepperell. Engage in hands-on activities and explore the world around
Northeast MA News
- The Sun’s Girls Basketball All-Star Teamby James Albert on March 29, 2024 at 10:12 am
Gianna Donato and Carly DiMento of Tyngsboro headline an outstanding Sun Girls Basketball All-Star Team.
- Kathleen Ralls spotlights Chelmsford female athletes in latest bookby Christopher Hurley on March 29, 2024 at 10:00 am
"They shared their sports history, both individually and as a team, but more importantly they talked about the lessons they learned, traditions, experiences and how those experiences as a girls athlete at Chelmsford High positively impacted their adult lives, personally and professionally.” Kathleen Ralls
- Two seek a seat on the Billerica Select Board in April 6 electionby Peter Currier on March 29, 2024 at 9:12 am
In the middle of a busy local election season two candidates, Dina Favreau and incumbent Andrew Deslaurier, are vying for a seat on Billerica’s Select Board in the April 6 election.
- Celebrating National Vietnam War Veterans Dayby Submitted article on March 29, 2024 at 7:22 am
PEPPERELL — National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed every year on March 29, and it is a way to thank and honor our nation’s Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Commemorative events like wreath-laying ceremonies, speeches, and luncheons are held to mark the occasion at venues that include the Vietnam
- Editorial: Medicare benefit should ease seniors’ health-cost burdenby Editorial on March 29, 2024 at 4:48 am
In an effort to make Massachusetts “a more affordable state to grow older,” the Healey administration recently unveiled a new Medicare program that could help save senior citizens up to $3,000 annually in health-care costs. The new Medicare Saving Program, administered by MassHealth, will pay for some or all of Medicare beneficiaries’ premiums and other
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