The 45th annual Gate Island Picnic was held on August 1st, bringing friends, family, and neighbors together for a day filled with good food, fun, and plenty of laughs!

Margie Klein unlatches the garden gate of the Otis Community Garden at 7:30 am every Wednesday to pick safe, clean, fresh, locally grown lettuce! In the spirit of great teamwork, the community is busy with a new fence project on the horizon.

From music to books to celebrations, here’s your monthly guide to what’s happening in our terrific little town!

Smile Like Jack Memorial Road Race—'A great way to keep Jack alive.' 700 participants begin the fifth annual 5K/10K walk and run road race in memory of Jack William O'Brien, who died in a 2022 crash. By Izzy Bryars, The Berkshire Eagle, republished with permission by the Berkshire Eagle 

Pete Adams and Bobby Sweet’s ‘Southwest Passage’ album release and country dance show is Sunday, August 9 at 7 PM at The Stationery Factory in Dalton, MA!

The Otis Fire & Rescue Annual Steak Roast returns for a summer evening of great food, live music, dancing, and community connection! Join local volunteers, neighbors, and friends at Center Station for a delicious steak dinner while supporting the dedicated first responders who help keep Otis safe. This beloved tradition promises a night of fun for all ages.

Between September 1–October 15, 2026, the Otis Cultural Council is accepting grant applications for 2027 cultural programs that enrich and connect the Otis community. Artists, performers, educators, and cultural organizations are invited to apply for funding that supports access to the arts, humanities, and educational experiences for residents of all ages!

Join AMVETS for a Once-in-a-Generation Celebration of America's 250th on Saturday, August 8! All residents and visitors are invited to join in this Big Bash hosted by the AMVETS Chapter 77. Anyone can join the veterans in the parking lot of the Knox Trail Inn at 11:30 AM to take part in the Wave Parade, lead by Grand Marshall Lenny Alexander, followed by gathering at the Izaak Walton Field to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with live music, delicious food, family fun, and a heartfelt salute to the town’s veterans.

The Rural Ethicist: Helping Our Turtle Friends explores the quiet ways compassion and conservation intersect along the roads and landscapes we share with wildlife. Katharine Adams highlights the story behind the “turtle crossing” signs sprouting up in Otis.

In Peter Cameron’s Otis History: The American Revolution — The War Drags On follows the long and difficult years after Saratoga, as the struggle between the Patriots and British forces spreads from the northern colonies to the South. With shifting alliances, fierce battles, and new strategies, the war enters a critical phase as both sides fight for control and survival.

The Spiritual Essence of Water: The Art of Gail Gelburd and Tenzin Wangchuk brings together a contemplative exploration of water’s beauty, power, and spiritual resonance. Their artwork will be shown at Sanctum Gallery, 148 North Street, Pittsfield, MA, August 6-31, 2026. Hours: Friday – Monday 11:00-5:00. 

Reception: August 7, 4:00-7:00, during Pittsfield’s First Friday.

In When Emotions Take Over: Keeping Conversations from Becoming Conflicts, Richard Sgaglio explores how strong emotions can derail even the best-intentioned conversations—and how simple communication techniques can keep disagreements from escalating. Drawing on his experience teaching conflict resolution, he offers practical strategies for responding with respect, listening more effectively, and preserving relationships … even in difficult moments.

In "Streams, Ponds and a Big A$$ Reservoir," Patricia Racine explores three scenic state forests where hiking and waterways go hand in hand. From Otis Reservoir to York Lake and the Hubbard River, she shares local history, trail recommendations, and a few favorite stops along the way for readers looking to make the most of a summer day outdoors.

Pickleball players can serve up support for a great cause at the 3rd Annual FUN(d)raising Pickleball Tournament benefiting Berkshire Bounty, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting food insecurity through food rescue and distribution. Registration opens August 1 for the September 26 event at Bousquet Sport Club, with all proceeds helping Berkshire Bounty continue its mission of feeding local communities.

In Hear Me Roar, Hilary Harley’s newest column, she explores the astrological themes shaping August 2026, a month marked by bold creativity, personal growth, and transformative energy. As powerful planetary alignments encourage readers to embrace change, take risks, and pursue their passions, Harley also offers guidance for navigating the month's eclipses with intention and purpose.

This month’s In These Times highlights the many education and career resources available throughout Berkshire County for adults of all ages. From college degrees and job training to GED programs, literacy support, and lifelong learning opportunities, the guide connects readers with organizations ready to help them reach their personal and professional goals.