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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

By Patricia Racine

Spring in the Berkshires means it’s ramp season! Patricia Racine shares her love for foraging these wild delicacies, along with tips, personal stories, and the importance of sustainable harvesting. A flavorful glimpse into a cherished seasonal tradition.

By Linda Rocke

Otis voters turned out to nominate candidates for a variety of town positions during the April 15th caucus. 

By Peter Cameron

How did Otis come to be? Local historian Peter Cameron traces the winding path from early colonial land grants and shifting town borders to the official founding of Otis in 1810. A fascinating look at the town’s origins and the people who helped shape it.

Celebrate creativity and connection during Art Week Berkshires with local artists Gail Gelburd and Celeste Watman. Their open studio event on May 17 & 18 offers a unique look at thought-provoking works inspired by nature, community, and the human spirit—all set in a stunning historic mill setting.