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A mystery announcement + local heroes

What’s happenin with packs deli, new Quinte mall opening and much more...

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Top o’ the mornin’ to ya Bay of Quinte! Spring is officially underway — there were even some patios open this weekend. According to the farmers almanac, we still have some Winter left in the tank in Ontario… but we’re not going to listen to that, are we?

Today around the Bay:

  • New biz in the BOQ

  • A couple sneaky announcements

  • Hero’s worth recognition

and much more…

The Answer

Last week we asked what your thoughts on artificial intelligence were, here’s what the BOQ thinks about the future of AI.

  • Most of you (65.7%) are all for AI—as long as it’s used right.

  • A solid chunk (roughly 20%) admitted AI spooks them. No shame—Skynet gave us all trust issues.

  • A handful (under 10%) are taking the “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” approach.

  • A few (really, just a few) have never seen The Terminator and have no clue what’s happening. We’ve got movie night recommendations for you.

Experience The Difference

Presented By Thairific

Thairific offers more than just food truck services; we provide full catering for private dinners, office lunches, or holiday gatherings.

Whether you're hosting a small team lunch or a large party, we can accommodate your needs with a customizable menu that includes a variety of dishes—from savoury appetizers to mouthwatering entrees. Follow us on facebook and instagram to see our delicious food and offers.*

Weather

Monday
High 6°C 🌡️ Low -4°C | 🌤️ | 0% | NW 15 km/h

Tuesday
High 11°C 🌡️ Low 1°C | ⛅ | 10% | SW 20 km/h

In Case You Missed It

Photo: Packs Deli / Instagram

Packs Deli Announcement?
Seemingly out of nowhere, the much-anticipated deli dropped a teaser on Instagram, hinting at a big announcement coming Monday (today). Could an opening be on the horizon? Keep an eye on their Instagram today to find out.

PS - love the interior already.

News Notes

Urban Kids Opens at Quinte Mall
New store alert: Urban Kids is now open in Quinte Mall, taking over the former Forever 21 location. If you’ve got little ones who need a wardrobe refresh, this is a new spot for trendy children’s clothing. (Facebook)

Playtime meets coffee time in Trenton
Parents, this one’s for you. Café au Play is now open in Downtown Trenton, serving up lattes alongside an interactive indoor play area for kids under ten. Families can drop in for weekday play, book weekend sessions online, or even throw a birthday bash. Because caffeine + happy, occupied kids = a winning combo. (City of Quinte West)

Three local paramedics honored for bravery
Heroes walk among us—three Hastings-Quinte paramedics just received the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery for putting their lives on the line to save others. From pulling an ATV rider from rushing waters to rescuing an unconscious person in a smoke-filled home, Dominic Rehayem, Roger Litwiller, and Dave Valdes are living proof that courage isn’t just a word—it’s an action. (InQuinte)

Habitat for Humanity PEH Celebrates 30 Years
Three decades, 90+ homes, and counting. Habitat for Humanity Hastings-Prince Edward just hit a major milestone, marking 30 years of providing affordable housing in the region. Up next? A 66-unit project at the former Belleville Police Station. Rising construction costs aren’t slowing them down—and neither is community support. ( InQuinte)

Bridge services temporarily relocating ahead of Hub opening
Change is coming for The Bridge drop-in services in Belleville. They’re temporarily moving from Bridge Street United Church to 125 S Church Street on April 1 while renovations wrap up at the new Bridge Integrated Care Hub. Bonus news: Ashley Vader (former Grace Inn Shelter Director) is stepping in as The Bridge’s new director. ( InQuinte)

Sens Stay in the Hunt
The Belleville Senators took down the Bridgeport Islanders once again, staying just two points behind Syracuse for the final playoff spot. Jan Jenik racked up three points, Angus Crookshank tied the franchise goal record (76), and Malcolm Subban shut the door with 30 saves. Next up: a crucial three-game weekend against Toronto and Cleveland. Playoff push is on. (B-Sens)

CCB payments land this week
Parents, check your accounts—Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments of up to $648 per child start dropping March 20. The tax-free benefit helps cover child-related expenses, with amounts based on income and family size. Bonus: Some provinces add top-ups of up to $300 per child. Keep those tax returns filed to stay eligible. (Narcity)

Feel good fitness starts here.

Presented by The Fit Collective

If you’re looking for a gym that’s equal parts welcoming and fully equipped, The Fit Collective has you covered. With a mix of free weights, machines, and expert-led classes — all in a friendly, down-to-earth space — it’s designed to help you build confidence while crushing your fitness goals.

Explore membership options and class schedules, and follow @fitcollectivebelleville for all the latest events, challenges, and gym news.*

Events

Monday

Cameron & Cameron, Saint Patrick's Day at The Acoustic Grill | 6 p.m. | The Acoustic Grill, Picton
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with live music at The Acoustic Grill.

LIVE MUSIC: Cat Named Earl at Meyers Creek Brewing | 7-9 p.m. | Meyers Creek Brewing, Belleville
Enjoy a lively St. Patrick’s Day set with Cat Named Earl, plus green beer and Flat Cap Irish Stout.

Tuesday

Buck(ish) Shuck Oysters at The Local Social House | 3-10 p.m. | The Local Social House, Belleville | Free
Savor fresh Raspberry Point oysters at market price every Tuesday, paired with your drink of choice.

Wednesday

Benni’s Piano Bar | 7-10 p.m. | The Cardinal, Trenton
Sing along to classic hits and requests with Benni Vandergaast at The Cardinal.

Monster | 8-9:30 p.m. | The Brake Room, Belleville | C$20.00
A gripping one-person play by Daniel MacIvor that delves into 16 characters and psychological suspense.

Note: Events may be cancelled or have changed times. Be sure to see our event calendar and reach out to the venue before going.

🔗 To see more info on these events and many more, hit the button below

Hosting an event? Submit it to our calendar here.

Looking to feature an event? Go here.

Unplug & Recharge

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This local float spa is changing the way people relax—helping them de-stress, sleep better, and relieve pain effortlessly.

If you’re constantly feeling drained, dealing with sore muscles, or just need a break from the chaos of daily life, floating might be exactly what you’re looking for. A one-hour float in a weightless, sensory-free environment has been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and even enhance creativity.

Try a float session and experience total relaxation—mind and body. Book now.*

🌱 3 Simple Ways to Prep Your Garden for Spring

Home & Garden

Winter’s finally almost packed its bags, and your garden is begging for a comeback.
Here’s 3 early Spring tips to get growing:

  • Clean up & prune – Remove leaves, branches, and debris to keep pests away. Trim dead or damaged branches on trees and shrubs for healthy new growth. (Wait until spring to allow wildlife to emerge from Winter habitats)

  • Prep the soil – Test pH levels (kits available at local garden centers) and mix in compost or aged manure to improve drainage and nutrients.

  • Plant early crops – Cool-season veggies like kale, spinach, and peas can go in now, while warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers should be started indoors.

📍 Where to get your garden essentials:

Don’t miss this hidden gem; Terra Edibles is a local growers favourite for seeds.

Foodie Friday - March Menu Madness

​🍽️ Welcome to March Menu Madness. In each newsletter for the rest of March, we're spotlighting a local Bay of Quinte eatery and giving away a $50 gift card to one lucky subscriber. To enter, simply click on the featured restaurant's link in our Foodie Friday section; we'll randomly select a winner from those who do and email you.

Spice, Flavour, and Everything Nice

Brought to you by BayLeaf

If you’re looking for a flavour train and exceptional customer service, stop right here.

BayLeaf Belleville isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a full-on dining experience. Bringing a modern twist to authentic Indian cuisine, this Downtown spot is all about fresh ingredients, rich spices, and a passion for sharing incredible food. Whether you’re dining in, hosting a corporate dinner, or looking for first a date spot to impress , BayLeaf’s team is ready to serve up something unforgettable.

Check them out here. (psst—this is how you enter)

The Local Find

We just stumbled on a dreamy countryside escape with a built-in brewery—Fogorig Farmstead & Brewery is up for grabs, and it’s got everything from a historic grist mill to 64 acres of prime land. If you’ve ever wanted to run a craft brewery or turn a scenic farm into something big, this might just be your shot.

Signing Off

That’s a wrap, thanks for reading as always, share this with someone who you’re going to buy a brewery with.

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