Otis just held a big vote on the future of its regional school agreement — and after years of debate, the town made it official. Frank Tolopko breaks down what changed, what’s next, and what it means for your tax bill.

By Sandy Balayan

Out here in Otis, we’re not the only ones who call these woods home. Black bears are a regular part of our lives!

By Lyn O’Brien

Reminder: Town Caucus April 15th, Otis Town Hall, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

By Peter Cameron

Ever wondered why there’s a little block of land in Southwick that looks like it should be Connecticut on a map, but is actually Massachusetts? Peter Cameron explains.

By Patricia Racine

Winter in Otis wouldn’t run half as smooth without the quiet power of our local plow drivers. This piece tips its hat to the folks behind the wheel—up before dawn, out in the worst of it—keeping roads clear and neighbors safe. It’s our small-town thank-you to the big machines and the bigger hearts that drive them.

Hilary Harley interprets the stars to help readers navigate the month ahead with clarity and confidence.

Terry Gould shares the latest from the Otis Food Pantry, including recent donations, current needs, and how the community continues to step up for one another. It’s a quick look at the vital work happening behind the scenes—and how you can help.

From cult classics to forgotten gems, Eileen W. Cohen curates a monthly lineup of films that surprise, challenge, and entertain. In this column, she shares her latest picks—and why they’re worth a spot on your watchlist.

The Otis Book Sale will be Saturday, May 3rd, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Otis Ridge Ski Lodge.

By Patricia Racine

When thru-hikers pass through Otis on the Appalachian Trail, one local woman makes sure they’re met with kindness, care, and a place to rest. This story shines a light on the quiet generosity of a true trail angel—and the unexpected ways her simple acts ripple far beyond the trailhead.

By Katharine Adams

Some terms survive, while others fade, in a language that evolves in playful ways beyond just practical communication.

By Sandy Balayan

Even in the quiet season, life in Otis doesn’t slow down—it just shifts. While snow fell and woodstoves burned, neighbors were busy behind the scenes: creating, building, planning, and showing up. Here’s a look at what’s been happening around town while we were all hibernating.

By Sandy Balayan

Candles are more than just decorative—they set the mood, mark the seasons, and bring comfort to any space. In this feature, we take a look at a local company with a story behind each scent.

By Tom Burke, Treasurer, Otis Library Board of Trustees and Building Committee

A library isn’t just a building with books—it’s a community hub, a meeting place, and a gateway to learning. From 3D printing and book clubs to an upcoming new library building, Otis Library is expanding what it means to serve the town. Find out what’s next for this local treasure.

By Stephanie Skinner, Director

What do three Pulitzers, a secret society, and the Librarian of Congress have to do with tiny Otis, MA? Library Director Stephanie Skinner dives into the surprising literary connections of Archibald MacLeish and why libraries—especially ours—stand as monuments to civilization. Plus, check out new arrivals and the next book club pick!

By Peter Cameron

The Otis Historical Commission is launching a new program to spotlight the town’s historic properties, complete with research, signage, and an interactive website. Soon, residents and visitors will be able to scan QR codes at key sites to uncover their rich past. Learn how this project will bring Otis’s history into the present.

The article showcases two photos from the from the event taken by Ellen Dilts.

In this month’s column of The Rural Ethicist, Katharine Adams breaks down how March is when the Barred Owls of New England begin their courtship, filling the night with an eerie mix of hoots, howls, and even monkey-like calls and explains that now is the perfect time to catch a glimpse—or simply listen—to one of nature’s most captivating nocturnal hunters.