Do you freeze Cheezies?

 Presented By

Gooood morning everybody! It is March… St. Patty’s Day. Maple syrup. Madness. Maybeee some good weather?

Today around the Bay

• VARAK Week

• BOQ Home show

• Frozen Cheezies… excuse me?

and much more…

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. Experience the Thairific difference beyond typical meals at your next event! 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 -2°C 🌡️ Low -23°C | ☁️ Scattered clouds | Winds variable

Tuesday
High 2°C 🌡️ Low -6°C | 🌧️❄️ Rain and snow | Winds variable

^{For the most update weather head to our weather tracker.}

Spreading kindness, one act at a time

A lasting local legacy

The 29th annual Violence Awareness and Random Acts of Kindness (VARAK) Week runs from March 3rd to 9th, honouring the memory of Mark Fyke, a Belleville student whose life was tragically taken in 1996. What started as a local tribute has become a community-wide movement inspiring kindness across Quinte and beyond.

How it works
Each year, elementary and high school students are encouraged to get creative through colouring contests, Kindness Citizen nominations, and surprise acts of kindness. This year’s Kindness Citizen will receive a laptop, printer, and bursary — thanks to community sponsors.

Why it matters

This grassroots tradition started with a heartbreaking loss but has evolved into a powerful reminder of how small acts of kindness can strengthen the entire community. Whether it’s buying someone coffee, leaving a thoughtful note, or volunteering time, everyone is invited to join the movement.

Want to get involved? The week is packed with events, including a Community Candle Light Vigil, Blue Ribbon of Hope Day (wear blue to show support) and more. Follow along with VARAK’s schedule and sprinkle some kindness into your week.

Let’s all try do something nice for someone this week.

News Notes

2025 Bay of Quinte Home Show set for April 25-27
The Bay of Quinte Home Show is back April 25th, 26th, and 27th at the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre. With over 2,000 attendees expected, it’s a prime chance for businesses to showcase products, connect with local customers, and build brand awareness — all under one roof. (Bay of Quinte Home Show)

Guardian Angel Gala honours Tom and Golda Lafferty
More than 400 supporters gathered at the Belleville Armoury on Saturday night to celebrate Tom and Golda Lafferty, who were honoured at this year’s Guardian Angel Gala for their incredible philanthropy across the community. From the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign to Three Oaks Shelter and the BGH Foundation, the Laffertys have left their mark on countless organizations. The evening, hosted by The Children’s Foundation, raised funds for Reach for Success, a scholarship program supporting local youth in care. (The Intelligencer)

Program cancellations at Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre
Planning a visit to the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre next week? Heads up — some programs are cancelled between March 3rd and 10th due to a swim meet and March Break camps. It’s always a good idea to check the schedule before heading out. (Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre)

Wellington fast-tracks trunkline construction
The County is doubling shifts to speed up work on the Wellington trunk watermain and sanitary sewer, aiming to reopen Wellington Main Street earlier than expected — moving the timeline from late spring to early spring 2025. (The County of Prince Edward)

Touré’s first AHL goal helps Sens slide into playoff spot
Djibril Touré scored his first AHL goal Friday night, helping the Belleville Senators take a 5-3 win over the Manitoba Moose at CAA Arena. The victory bumps the Sens into the final playoff spot in the AHL North Division, setting the stage for a crucial five-game road trip starting in Laval. (Belleville Senators)

Ontario Parks is hiring for summer
If your dream office includes lakes, forests, and fresh air, this is your sign — Ontario Parks is hiring for a wide range of seasonal jobs across the province. From park wardens to visitor service reps, these gigs come with epic views and serious nature perks. (Ontario Parks)

March 2025 government payments to watch for
Several federal and provincial payments are heading to Canadians’ bank accounts this month:

• Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Arrives March 20 — payments increased by 4.7% in 2024.

• Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB): Lands March 10, combining energy, property tax, and sales tax credits. (Daily Hive)

Frozen Cheezies?
Canadian Comedian Brent Butt just spilled his backstage essentials on Bob Kronbauer’s Instagram — Crown Royal and Hawkins Cheezies, because of course. Bob brought both along for the debut episode of his CHEK TV show, and Brent kicked off a very serious cheese dust debate. The real shocker? Brent swears by freezing his Cheezies. Bold move — but are we the weird ones for eating them at room temp, or is this just comedy fuel in the making?

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.*

JYSK lands in Trenton — and they’re throwing a party

Business Spotlight

Calling all decor lovers and deal hunters. JYSK is officially opening its Trenton doors on Saturday, March 8th at 135 Dundas St E, Quinte West. Expect door-crasher deals, giveaways, and enough home inspo to fill your Pinterest board twice. Oh and pssttt… Be one of the first 200 customers to visit and receive a $20 JYSK Promo Card***. Check link for details. (Facebook Events)

Woops
Correction from Friday, Pickleplex Social’s actual address is going to be located at Bell Front Shopping Center (across from Quinte Mall) 366 North Front Street Unit 250a.

Unplug & Recharge

Presented By I-Float Spa

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.

Kick-start your wellness journey today. Try a float session and experience total relaxation—mind and body. Get your first float session today. Book now.*

What’s Happenin’

Thursday, March 6

Quinte International Women's Day 2025: Accelerate Action | 5:00-8:00 p.m. | Venue 1906 | Celebrate and support local women in business at this action-packed evening.

International Women's Day Gala | 5:30-9:30 p.m. | The Grand | Honouring women’s achievements with a night of celebration and advocacy.

The Irish Rovers: 60 Years A-Roving! | Time TBA | The Empire Theatre | $59+ | The legendary Irish Rovers bring their iconic folk tunes back to Belleville.

RISE - Because We Are Equal! | 4:00-6:00 p.m. | Quinte Arts Council | Free | An art exhibition celebrating women in the arts — and everyone’s invited.

Dare to Dream Luncheon | 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. | Trent Port Marina | A lunchtime celebration of ambition, empowerment, and community.

Saturday, March 8

International Women's Day with Micky Colton | 3:00 p.m. | Belleville Public Library | Free | Hear Micky’s story — from 6,900 flying hours to founding Horse Sense Equine Guidance.

_{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.

The Great March Flood

A Moment in Time

I don’t know about you, but looking at this makes me completely content with the current weather.

Presented by Local Author
Sarah Taylor-Malo

Have you ever looked at your life one day and thought, “How did I get here?” Maybe you don’t recognize yourself or the life you’re living. You thought by this time you’d be somewhere else. But here you are, and you have so many questions.
If this sounds familiar, this book might be for you. While the specifics always differ, the common threads of personal hardship, fear of the unknown, and self-discovery remain. Buy the book here.

Step into a world of colour

Art, Theatre & Culture

Step into a world of colour at CHROMA QUEST
This March, Oeno Gallery in Bloomfield is turning up the colour dial with CHROMA QUEST, a stunning exhibition exploring the power of bold hues, rich pigments, and artistic imagination. Running every Saturday, this vibrant show features works from Burton Kramer, Milly Ristvedt, Pat Service and more — all celebrating how colour can tell a story, spark a mood, or even change how we feel. If your walls (or your soul) could use a pop of inspiration, this is the place to find it. (Oeno Gallery)

Signing Off

That’s all folks - share this with someone who like’s Cheezie’s in the freezer.