Otis Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary
By Cynthia Fletcher with Tom Soules and Ellen Ryon
September 2026
On August 8, the Town of Otis celebrated America’s 250th anniversary of freedom at an event honoring local vets and hosted by AmVets Post 77. A wave parade of military vehicles and decorated cars gathered at the Knox Trail Inn. Led by Grand Marshal Leonard Alexander and followed by a personnel vehicle driven by soldiers Mike Clingerman and Philip Chery, the parade arrived at Izaak Walton Field at midday. The Field was festively decked out in red, white, and blue. Residents and visitors were greeted by the wafting aroma of roast pig, and music from Kellioke’s Kelly Morales.
Photo by Suzy Avery
Photo by Frank Tolopko
Photo by Frank Tolopko
A stream of vehicles going to the Otis Celebration of America's 250th Anniversary. Photo by Suzy Avery
Under the pavilion, Matt Gamelli delivered a stirring rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, followed by an opening welcome by AmVets’ Tom Soules. Otis’s own Knox Trail expert Tom Ragusa shared some of his fascinating insights into our town’s part in General Knox’s incredible journey.
A grand community feast ensued. Fred and Wendy Lampro prepared and served the delectable pork that had been cooking since 4:00 a.m. Matt Hood and Scott Stone grilled burgers and hot dogs. An abundant array of sides brought by the community rounded out the picnic fare with baked beans, corn bread, cole slaw, and pasta and potato salads. The delicious dessert bar, including a large assortment of cookies from the ovens of Roberta Parry and Gail Soules, was the perfect sweet touch.
On the field, Lilly Godwin created made-to-request skin paintings and her mom Katy Utensis applied temporary tattoos. Cornhole competitions were waged. Greg and Marge Middleton’s full Colonial attire won them an award as Best Period Costume. Kay Koloski, Theresa Kolsalka, and Sara Johnson were awarded the prize for Best Decorated Vehicle. T-shirts with logos designed for the event by Karen Amanti were popular items for sale. Raffle items included a modern muzzleloader, won by Donny Chaffee III; a Colonial flag, won by Jim Thomas, and an eagle flag won by Michelle Love. A handcrafted cornhole board was donated for raffle by Chris and Deb Bliss, and won by a very lucky young woman.
The Soular Eclipse Band treated us to a wonderful set before the rain cut things short. AmVets Local 77 would like to thank all who helped make this community day such a great success, especially the Otis 250 organizing group, the Knox Trail Inn, and Izaak Walton Field.