Liberty Tax at 512 Main St. in Athol, one of the sponsors of the Athol to Orange River Rat Race, welcomed Paddles, the official mascot of the annual race on the Millers River. Posing with Paddles (Tom Henry) is Torchie, the Liberty Tax mascot. It would seem, from the photo, that Torchie is giving Paddles some tax strategies as he consults with him. Joey Lovett, along with Jennifer Lovett and Bill Rhines, are the owners of the company, which is now enjoying its third year here in Athol. The Athol Lions River Rat Race is on Saturday, April 13, at 1 p.m. and registration closes on April 11 at 8 p.m. Signups can be done online at https://www.RiverRatRace.com or in person at Else Where at 1485 Main St. in Athol. PHOTO BY MITCHELL R. GROSKY