Patricia Racine recounts her bumpy dive into the world of health insurance—complete with nonstop calls, fine-print surprises, and the hard-won lessons of navigating coverage on her own.

David Mittler takes readers on a flavorful journey through the history of bread—from trail-ready matzoh to space-faring tortillas—celebrating the traditions and stories baked into every slice.

Hilary Harley offers guidance for navigating the season with clarity, steadiness, and a little celestial push.

In this month’s column, Peter Cameron unearths the remarkable journey of a Hessian soldier-turned-New Englander who brought the Christmas tree tradition to our corner of the world.

A family meat-pie tradition takes a hilarious turn as Patricia Racine navigates vague recipes, critter catastrophes, and generations of strong opinions in her quest to perfect the holiday tourtière.

Otis artists lit up the library again as Open Mic Night returned—an evening of music, stories, and local talent that proved too good to hold just once.

A packed town meeting ended with a decisive vote to keep Otis in the state library grant program. Stephanie Skinner recounts the passionate voices, close vote, and community spirit that carried the day.

The next big decision in Otis’s new library project is here. The design team will present two building options, and the committee’s vote will determine the path forward toward a modern community library.

When AMVETS Post 77 teamed up with the Knox Trail Inn, a lifesaving device found a new home in Otis. Sandy Balayan shares how one AED—and a few dedicated neighbors—could make all the difference in an emergency.

Cynthia Fletcher reports on new efforts to strengthen Otis—from exploring community paramedicine and affordable housing to engaging local businesses and residents in shaping the town’s future.

When an uninvited mouse tries to move in, Katharine Adams wrestles with compassion, pest control, and the quirks of country living—finding humor and heart in everyday ethical dilemmas.

After years behind the counter, Patricia Racine reflects on friendship, trust, and the lessons learned from running a small-town store—where every customer has a story and community is the true reward.

Jackie Gentile recaps a season of delicious eats, live music, and neighborly fun as food trucks turned Otis nights into community gatherings—proving good food really does bring people together.

From creative pumpkin painting to an inspired Open Mic Night, Stephanie Skinner shares how the Otis Library has become a lively hub for art, stories, and community connection—with more events on the way.

From KnoxGiving to live music and community meetings, November is packed with ways to connect, give back, and celebrate small-town spirit. Check out all that’s happening in Otis this month!

Peter Cameron traces the roots of Massachusetts back to two groups seeking religious freedom—revealing how their beliefs, conflicts, and resilience helped shape the spirit of Otis today.

From summer’s garden abundance to holiday comfort foods, Terry Gould shares how the pantry continues to nourish both body and spirit—thanks to a generous, ever-caring community.

As the growing season winds down, Margie Klein reflects on the garden’s bounty, teamwork, and the quiet joy of feeding neighbors. A grassroots success story rooted in gratitude and community.

From trolls to egg cups, everyone treasures something. Sandy Balayan explores why we collect—nostalgia, beauty, memory, or the thrill of the hunt—and how these keepsakes tell the stories of our lives.

November’s cosmic energy digs deep. Hilary Harley explains how to ride the season’s powerful shift instead of resisting it.