The Duxbury Rural and Historical Society is pleased to announce that the annual Clark’s Island Picnic, open to the public, will take place Sunday, July 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Cedarfield on the east side of the island.

A Duxbury resident has been named chief of staff in Governor Deval Patrick’s office. Arthur Bernard of Keene Street, who had previously been a senior advisor to the governor, will replace Doug Rubin, who will now head Patrick’s re-election effort, according to a statement released by the governor’s office.

Thirty-one Duxbury residents will be competing in the 30th Pan-Massachusetts Challenge this August to raise money to fund cancer treatment and research.

I knew Barbara first.  She died years ago, but Barbara Arsenian touched my life and many others with her spirit and sparkle, touched us enough to save lives.  I cherish the moments later on when I could return the favor in a small way, enough to reassure her a little bit when she could use it.

Duxbury residents, eager for the first glimpse of good weather in what seemed like weeks, packed onto the beach for the annual 4th of July Beach Party Friday night. Despite a rising tide and a few scattered showers, the event was well attended and the music and bonfire went off without a hitch. Click for more photos.

The first day of the Duxbury Farmers Market, located in front of the former Tarkiln Schoolhouse on Route 53, was a rousing success, according to the event's organizers. The fair included fresh produce from local organic farmers, ready-to-eat meals and lobsters as well as arts and crafts from area artists. Click for more photos.

Big crowds and perfect weather –– that was the story of Duxbury’s 4th of July parade.

“It couldn’t have gone any better,” said Parade Co-chairwoman Maggie Kearney.

Independent film is coming to the Duxbury Performing Arts Center. The PAC has formed a working relationship with the Coolidge Corner Theater of Brookline and will be showing films on Saturdays, starting on July 11 and continuing through August.