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.

Get ready for one of Otis’s biggest community celebrations of the year 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.

Otis Community Day was filled with music, community spirit, and small-town charm. The incredible turnout and the absolutely stellar, perfect weather contributed to this wonderful event!

Appointed by the Select Board, the seven-member committee and one alternate of the Town of Otis Revitalization Committee has developed a comprehensive strategy focused on economic vitality, aesthetic appeal, and quality of life. See details within about the results of their surveys.

Celebrate the music and legacy of jazz icons Miles Davis and John Coltrane when the Ted Rosenthal Quintet performs at Tanglewood on July 26. The Tanglewood Learning Institute also offers a jazz appreciation program and a thought-provoking new lecture series beginning July 3, “Arts and the Rule of Law,” presented by Lesley Rosenthal.

In Why Do We Fear Public Speaking?, Richard Sgaglio explores one of the most common fears people experience.

In this edition of Peter Cameron’s in-depth, well-researched Otis History column, he discusses the American Revolution in his latest piece, Saying Goodbye to Mother.

In “Trail Mix and Sass: Are There Bears in Beartown?” Patricia Racine muses about that familiar gem of a State Forest bearing (wink) the same name, covering about 12,000 acres of forested ridges and hidden ponds.

In this month’s column, Katharine Adams writes about one of the most well-documented stories of female military service during the American Revolution, Deborah Sampson, recognized as the American Revolution's only pensioned female veteran.

Otis resident and musician Pete Adams and singer-songwriter Bobby Sweet of Becket have united musical forces to record a collection of songs harkening back to the heyday of electric and steel guitar instrumentals of the ’50s. See them live on Sunday, August 9, at 7 pm at The Stationery Factory in Dalton, MA!

Hilary Harley’s thoughtful and witty essays beseech us, in July, to carefully craft what we say, as even the most sincere apology often cannot undo damage. Meticulous and precise Venus in Virgo asks whether we really want to speak what is better left unsaid? Take a breath and hit the pause button this month, because you never regret the things you do not say.