Otis Observer is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization serving the residents of the Southern Berkshires.
In this month’s Otis Revitalization Update, Cynthia Fletcher reports on the town’s newly awarded planning grant, outlining the next steps in reimagining downtown Otis and moving long-discussed revitalization efforts forward.
The Season Turns the Page
Stephanie Skinner reflects on Otis’s slow slide into winter and the library’s evolving plans—from building updates to cozy December programs—in a warm, thoughtful look at the season ahead.
Terry Gould shares how the Otis Food Pantry continues to thrive through generosity, teamwork, and creative seasonal initiatives—proving once again that this community shows up for one another.
In this month’s Rural Ethicist column, Katharine Adams reminds us how listening, empathy, and shared humanity ground even the most turbulent times.
From festive workshops to family movie nights, December in Otis is packed with activities—proving once again that when it comes to holiday fun, this little town is the place to be.
Insurance Woes
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.
A Toast to Bread: A Tribute to Bread Though History
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.
Tourtière Trials
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.
Open Mic at the Otis Library Redux!
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.
Petition to Withdraw from the Small Population Grant is Turned Back
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.
Library Building Committee Joint Meeting Scheduled
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.
AED in the Heart of Our Community
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.
Town of Otis Revitalization Committee Update
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.
The Rural Ethicist: No Vacancy at the Wildlife Hostel
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.
The Retail Diaries, Part 5
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.
Rolling in Flavor: A Successful Food Truck Summer
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.
What’s New at the Library
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!