Otis Observer is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization serving the residents of the Southern Berkshires.

Town Of Otis Revitalization Committee Update
By Cynthia Fletcher
The Otis Revitalization Committee is charting a path toward a more vibrant, connected, and resilient town. With clear goals and seven focused work groups now in place, the committee is laying the groundwork for thoughtful, community-driven progress.

Passion for Compassion
By Sandy Balayan
With heart, hustle, and an uncanny knack for connecting people with what they need, Karen Yvon’s “K’s Kloset” and her new role leading Otis’s Council on Aging are making a big impact. Read how one woman’s passion for compassion is transforming lives across our community.

Cannon at the Knox Trail Inn
By Sandy Balayan
A Revolutionary War-era tribute has landed at the Knox Trail Inn! Stop by to see the newly installed replica cannon—an homage to General Henry Knox—and enjoy the welcoming spirit and community hub owner Brooke Tame continues to cultivate.

Annual Otis Library Craft And Country Fair
Saturday, July 5, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Town Hall green in the center of Otis, MA (Routes 8/23)!

Get Out Your Fishing Rods!
By Sandy Balayan
Get ready to cast your line for a cause! The Smile Like Jack Memorial Fund has stocked Otis Reservoir with 500 trout—12 with green tags worth up to $500—as a heartfelt tribute to Jack O’Brien, turning a love for fishing into community fun and support.

Farmington River Regional School District News
Celebrating growth and success, the Farmington River Regional School District highlights the achievements and farewells of dedicated student teachers, as well as the impressive milestones of staff pursuing advanced degrees. Join us in recognizing their hard work and bright futures!

Cultural Council Grants, 2025
The Otis Cultural Council has awarded $10,700 in grants for 2025 to support local arts, education, and community events—from school programs to senior activities and library events. See what’s coming and how you can get involved!
Friends of the Otis Library
The Friends of the Otis Library hosted a successful spring book sale, raising over $1,100 and bringing the community together. A big thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and shopped —and see you next at the July 5th Country and Craft Fair!

News from Your Otis Library
By Stephanie Skinner
Otis Library’s big book sale was a success thanks to amazing volunteers! Don’t miss the Country Fair on July 5th, with books, food, and fun for all.

Otis Community Garden Update
By Margie Klein
The Otis Community Garden is in full bloom! With new members, fresh planting techniques, and early harvests already underway, this season is all about growth, giving, and the joy of sharing nature’s bounty with local pantries and neighbors.

Otis Food Pantry Update
By Terry Gould
Community care at its finest. From Easter meals and garden-grown veggies to weekly baked goods and big-hearted volunteers, the Otis Food Pantry continues to nourish both bodies and spirits—thanks to a town that always shows up for each other.
Take Me to the Pound
Hidden in plain sight: a piece of Otis history rediscovered. Join local historian Peter Cameron as he unearths the long-lost 18th-century Town Pound—connecting old maps, marriage records, and a snowy hike to bring a forgotten chapter of Otis back to life.

Share the Road
A peaceful walk turned close call. In this sharp and candid reflection, Patricia Racine urges drivers to slow down and share the road with pedestrians—because in our beautiful town, no one should have to choose between a stroll and their safety.

The Rural Ethicist: Inspiring Quotes for Graduation
By Katharine Adams
Graduation season is here—and so is the wisdom that comes with it. In this thoughtful piece, Katharine Adams shares timeless quotes and reflections on persistence, trust, and collaboration to inspire grads (and the rest of us) as we step into life’s next chapter.

When You Gotta Go
Trail treasure: the humble porta-potty. Patricia Racine confesses her deep appreciation for bathroom facilities on the trail—and takes us on a surprisingly funny, honest, and informative tour of the best (and worst) outhouse stops in the Berkshires.

Firing on All Engines: Pistons Working Overtime
By Hilary Harley
June's energy is full throttle! Big changes, bold moves, and a cosmic push to get things done are in the stars—alongside moments of care, reflection, and maybe even a few surprises. Curious what the universe has planned for you?

Town of Otis Revitalization Committee
A new committee has been formed to explore ways to enhance Otis’s economic vitality, infrastructure, and community life. Learn about their goals, upcoming meetings, and how residents can get involved in shaping the town’s future.

Volunteer Extraordinaire
By Sandy Balayan
Carol Lombardo is bidding farewell to Otis after more than two decades of dedicated service. From town government and church duties to countless volunteer roles, Carol’s contributions have touched nearly every corner of the community. Her impact will be felt for years to come.

A Message From The Town Clerk
By Lyn O’Brien
Get ready for Otis’s Annual Town Meeting and Election with this important update from the Town Clerk. Includes key dates, voting procedures, registration deadlines, and details on how to request absentee or mail-in ballots.

The Rural Ethicist: Squirrel Choreography and Car Horns
In this thoughtful and witty column, Katharine Adams reflects on wildlife encounters, honking etiquette, and the lessons learned from her father’s driving advice. A charming exploration of rural life’s small but meaningful moments.