In January, fifth- and sixth-grade students from Paxton Center School and their families and friends enjoyed an exhibition opening of a one-of-a-kind art show in the Paxton Senior Center Café. The theme, “What Makes Me Happy,” guaranteed a unique, colorful and personal art show. Art teacher Elizabeth Rauktis was instrumental in helping to organize the exhibit that displayed the creativity of 21 students. Each image gave an interesting view into what modern day students really enjoy. The public is invited to view the show, which will be on display through the end of April, during regular senior center hours. Come and remember what made you happy at age 11 or 12 - or even think about what makes you happy now. To see all 21 pieces of artwork, click here.

Holden

• The Jason S. Bradshaw Memorial Scholarship is offered in memory of Jason, a member of Wachusett Regional High School, Class of 1990. Jason was a bright young man who dealt with many challenges during his battle with health issues and resulting learning disabilities. His dream was to go to college. Established in 1993, the scholarship has been distributed to 50 students (including this year). 

 Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to two graduating WRHS students who have shown perseverance through health, learning or other challenges and who would like to continue their education in a post-secondary environment. Preference will be given to candidates on IEPs or 504 plans. Candidates should fill out the common scholarship application with at least one letter of recommendation and return to K. Henry at WRHS, Special Education Dept., or mail to WRHS, 1401 Main St., Holden, MA, 01520. Deadline for completed applications to be received is April 10, 2026.

• The law firm Mirick has strengthened its Worcester-based litigation bench with the addition of Attorney David Viens, a seasoned business lawyer and commercial litigator with nearly 20 years of experience in Massachusetts state and federal courts. Viens, a Holden resident, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester and earned his J.D., summa cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School.

• The deadline to nominate a candidate for the Holden Woman’s Club’s Person of The Year Award is April 8. HWC would like to recognize a Holden resident of any age or gender who has generously given time and effort for the betterment of the town. A written description of the nominee’s accomplishments should be sent to [email protected]. Please include your name and contact information.

Paxton

 • Congratulations to Robert Birkbeck, Paxton’s new full-time town administrator. Birbeck has been interim town administrator for about six months and was offered the position at the February 9 Select Board meeting. His contract will run through June 30, 2027. Citing a rise in town employee morale, Birkbeck’s respectful and low-key management style and his talent, Chair Peter Bogren said hiring Birkbeck was a home run for the town.

• While the Paxton Garden Club sends out grant applications and solicits private donations and in-kind contributions to support its vision for a community garden in town, local business Burgess Homes LLC has made a major contribution by offering to build the shed, which is an integral part of the design. 

Richard Fenton of the Paxton Lions Club, Cassina Pingitore, and Sam Lane. Photo submitted

 • The Paxton Lions Club is pleased to announce that Paxton residents Sam Lane and Cassina Pingitore, both former students at Wachusett Regional High School, are the recipients of a 2025 Robert J. Zoppo Memorial Scholarship. Lane is the daughter of Diane and James Lane and Pingitore is the daughter of Julia and Michael Pingitore. The awards were presented to the students after they completed their first semester of study at their chosen university. These students were chosen from a number of outstanding scholarship applicants based on academics and community and school involvement. The Paxton Lions Club wishes Lane and Pingitore great success in their chosen fields of study.

Rutland

• Congratulations to Library Director Kerry Remington, who received the 2026 Moses How Award for Excellence in Public Service. At their March 2 meeting, members of the Select Board unanimously voted for Remington to receive the award, citing her many years of service to the community in her role as library director and the positive impact that tenure has had on Rutland and its residents. Remington will receive the award at the first Concert on the Common in June, date to be determined. She plans to retire in July.

•  The Select Board is now accepting article requests for the Annual Town Meeting, which will be held Saturday, May 9 at 6 p.m. The warrant will be open until 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 16. Any resident who wishes to submit a citizen’s petition can pick up the papers from the Town Clerk’s office, Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. W