By Peter Cameron

After a decade of preserving Otis history, Diane Provenz is stepping down from her role as Co-Chair of the Historical Commission. From saving St. Paul’s Church to restoring the East Otis Schoolhouse, her legacy of dedication will leave a lasting mark on the town.

Big changes are in the stars this September. Hilary Harley breaks down what it all means for your daily life — and how to stay grounded while the universe pushes for transformation.

Sandy Balayan spotlights the heartwarming success of the new Blueberry Hill Farm Stand, a community-focused venture by locals Jake Tonlino and Dave Ripley. Offering fresh produce, local goods, and ice cream, the stand is more than a business—it’s a welcoming space where neighbors gather and family traditions thrive.

Sandy Balayan reflects on the powerful visit of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall to Lenox, offering local families a chance to honor loved ones lost in service. Otis veterans played a meaningful role in escorting and assembling the wall, a moving tribute to the sacrifice of over 58,000 Americans. 

In The Great Shift, astrologer Hilary Harley explores the intense energetic tides of early August 2025, urging us to rest, reflect, and realign before powerful cosmic forces propel us forward. With Mercury retrograde, a game-changing Full Moon, and supportive alignments from Jupiter and Venus, this is a pivotal moment to reset your intentions and prepare for bold new beginnings.

By Jackie Gentile

Despite a thunderstorm warning, Otis's first Food Truck Tuesday on July 2nd was a smashing success, with North Elm Butcher Block selling out in just three hours and community members gathering under the rain for food, music, and connection. With local favorites like Crescent City joining in and more trucks on the way, these weekly events are quickly becoming a delicious Otis tradition.

By Stephanie Skinner

From Chicago’s postwar neighborhoods to Otis, Massachusetts, Jeanne Randorf has lived a rich, fearless life full of language, travel, teaching, and love. A lifelong Francophile, devoted educator, and tireless caregiver, Jeanne brings wisdom, wit, and warmth to everything she touches—and when she smiles, the whole room feels it.

By Stephanie Skinner

The Otis Library Craft Fair on July 5th was a festive success, featuring 33 vendors, local crafts from quilts to honey, and plenty of delicious food.

By Peter Cameron

In 1935, tensions flared in Otis as second homeowners in East Otis—paying 80% of the town’s taxes—threatened to secede over poor road maintenance and lack of political representation. Plans to rename the area “Loudon” nearly became reality, but a town meeting and reassurances about spending quelled the crisis. Though the laws haven’t changed much, improved services have helped keep the peace ever since.

The Otis Community Garden is bursting with fresh produce thanks to dedicated volunteers who nurture everything from lettuce and beans to herbs and blossoms. Bonus: don’t miss Margie Klein’s zesty lemon vinaigrette recipe—perfect for your next homegrown salad!

By Terry Gould

As the Otis Food Pantry enters its sixth year, fluctuating funding and rising food costs have made community support more vital than ever. With back-to-school season approaching, the pantry is collecting school snacks and supplies in partnership with the Otis Police Department, while also continuing to rely on generous local donors, gardeners, and volunteers.

A listing of some of the events taking place in Otis in August 2025.

By Riley Bailey

The 4th Annual Smile Like Jack Road Race brought over 700 participants together on July 12th to honor the memory of Jack O’Brien, a beloved Otis native whose legacy lives on through a memorial fund supporting education and the trades.

In this month’s The Rural Ethicist, Katharine Adams wittily captures the joys and quirks of summer survival with a chorus of electric fans, furry pets, and a long-awaited leap into air conditioning. Balancing humor and practicality, she honors the unsung heroes of hot weather—those loyal little fans that hum through the haze with dignity and grit.

By Cynthia Fletcher

The Otis Revitalization Committee is driving progress through community input, local business support, and public safety improvements—like the new 30 mph downtown speed limit. From launching a town-wide survey to hosting Food Truck Tuesdays and business focus groups, the committee is building momentum toward a more vibrant, connected Otis.

Patricia Racine reflects on the joys and chaos of managing young employees at Katie’s, where the most unforgettable moments came not from customers, but from the laughter, mishaps, and growth shared behind the counter. From surprise ice cream spills to prank-filled shifts, she fondly recalls the bonds built and the pride she feels watching her former staff grow into amazing adults.

The Otis Pickleball Committee is excited to announce the launch of their new website to help players book courts, connect with others, and improve their game. The site features booking tools, local info, and monthly tips and rules via YouTube.

A new Otis Library will be more than just a place for books—it will be a welcoming hub for creativity, connection, and community growth. With programs for all ages, a makerspace, and accessible gathering areas, it will be designed to bring people together and help Otis thrive.

By Sandy Balayan

At just nineteen, Otis-born Will and Charlie Loring have built a thriving property services business while also working full-time plumbing and electrical jobs. Raised on hard work and family values, the brothers have quickly grown from mowing lawns to managing over 130 properties, proving that determination and community roots can launch big dreams.

The Otis Historical Commission has secured another $100,000 grant, pushing fundraising for the Otis Cultural Center past the $1 million mark. While the former church at the crossroads of Routes 8 and 23 may look quiet, a powerful transformation is happening behind the scenes.