By Terry Gould

The Otis Food Pantry has seen an increase in families needing assistance this winter, but the community has stepped up with generous donations. From locals filling trucks with supplies to friends shipping contributions from miles away, support has been strong.

By Lyn O’Brien

The Otis Town Clerk provides key updates on local elections and voting procedures. Several town offices, including Selectperson, Town Clerk, and Finance Board positions, are up for election this year.

by Lyn O’Brien

The town is introducing electronic voting clickers at meetings to encourage participation and ensure anonymous voting. Residents can visit the town clerk’s office for more info or to see the clickers in action.

Westfield’s own Isabel Marcheselli brings a fresh mix of classical, jazz, and pop to the Brightwood Library in Springfield this month. Featuring her latest work and a soundtrack from an award-winning film, this free concert is the perfect way to welcome the season.

By Terry Gould

The Otis Food Pantry reflects on a busy and impactful year, continuing to serve 50+ households weekly with fresh produce, non-perishable items, and special meals, thanks to community generosity. Highlights include providing Thanksgiving meals, holiday gift cards, and a Recipe Sack Campaign to foster connection and support. Despite challenges, like closing for Christmas, the pantry remains steadfast, with plans to navigate uncertain food access in 2025. Gratitude abounds for the incredible support of local farms, organizations, and donors who make this vital work possible.

by Diane Provenz

Big news for Otis! The Jane and Jack Fitzpatrick Trust has awarded a $50,000 grant to support the transformation of St. Paul’s Church into the Otis Preservation Trust!

by Stephanie Skinner

Learn how the Otis Historical Commission (OHC) and the Otis Preservation Trust (OPT) are teaming up to preserve Otis’s rich history, from restoring the East Otis Schoolhouse to transforming St. Paul’s into a vibrant Otis Cultural Center.

by Lyn O’Brien, Town Clerk

Stay informed in Otis! Sign up for emergency phone notifications and daily email updates to get the latest on town news, events, and alerts. Don’t miss out—stay connected with your community!

Otis families and revelers join to light the Christmas tree and greet Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. Carolers shared holiday songs led by Larry Southard.

by Katharine Adams

Fred and Marie Besancon left an indelible mark on their community. Dive into the rich history of this remarkable couple whose legacy still echoes through the heart of Otis today.

The Rural Ethicist’s December 2024 column offers practical advice to help manage stress and how to budget to re-gift with flair. This guide reminds us that the holidays aren’t about perfection —they’re about connection, gratitude, and a little twinkly magic.

In this Special to the Observer, your input is requested regarding a hyperlocal Digital Equity Plan to improve internet access, tech support, and digital skills for all residents.

by Sandy Balayan

The Veterans Day assembly at Farmington River Regional Elementary School brought together students and veterans in a heartfelt celebration of service and sacrifice. From handmade thank-you cards to patriotic songs and performances, the event honored sixteen veterans, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made to ensure our freedom.

by Ilona Packie

Ken Packie and his longtime collaborator, Jake Swanson, spent nine days transforming massive logs into a breathtaking 32-foot wyvern sculpture. Built in 32 separate pieces, the wings and tail detach for delivery to a client’s dragon garden, showcasing the team’s artistry, precision, and a decade-long partnership in wood carving.

by Terry Gould

We are so grateful to the Town of Otis and the Town Hall staff who provide us with a space and never complain if we make too much noise or track up the floors. We could not exist at all without the support of our wonderful town.