MUST SUPPORT
For nearly 150 years, the non-profit humanitarian group, the Odd Fellows & Rebekahs of Cobourg has made a difference in the community. The local group stayed open during the pandemic and continued to loan out critical medical aids and equipment to people in need: anything from wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, bed rails and bath seats to raised toilet seats and commodes. There are no fees for this service. You may ask, “Why the name Odd Fellows?” While many fraternities were forming in England to help themselves, there were “odd” men who formed fellowships to help those less fortunate. Donations are always welcome, including gently used equipment.
Facebook: @CobourgMemorialTemple
MUST CAST A LINE
One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish! The kids will love fishing off a dock or a pier, angling for smallmouth bass, trout, perch and walleye. All you need to land one of these easy-to-catch species is a hook, a bobber and bait. Let the kids pick up the worms and the grownups bait the hooks. Check out Bay of Quinte Tourism’s tips for family outings to intro the younger fisher-folk to fishing. One more reason to make the most of the outdoors – and catch a little dinner!
MUST HIGH FIVE!
One of the best parts of being a kid is the friends we make along the way. And for young girls, friendship is hugely impactful when it comes to building confidence and self-esteem. While social networks help people connect, they can’t replace face-to-face experiences that bond us together, which makes Reaching for Rainbows so valuable. The Picton-based group provides an after-school space in St. Andrew’s Church for girls ages six to nine to play and find friends, do yoga, crafts and just hang out and have fun! Program leaders and volunteers run the no-cost program that relies on financial support from the community, service agencies and granting agencies.
MUST GET BETWEEN THE COVERS
Cheers to Books & Company the beloved independent bookstore in downtown Picton that is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. And cheers to owners David and Barbara Sweet (and their resident cat) who are devoted to their customers, to local authors and to their community. After you’ve browsed the bookshelves of this local treasure, pass through the open doorframe for a hot cup and a bite at Miss Lily’s Café.
MUST GET WILD
Flowers are blooming and woodland creatures are reawakening after months of hibernation! Explore the beautiful trails along the Corbyville section of the Eastern Ontario Trails system, which is noted for its wildlife habitats. Corbyville is an ideal starting point for hiking or biking north to Stirling and beyond, although you don’t have to trek that far. Along the way, you might see deer, rabbits, foxes, woodpeckers and wild turkeys that can run at up to 19 kilometres per hour and fly up into the trees. So bring your camera!
Cannifton Road North, Corbyville thetrail.ca
MUST TAKE CARE
Farming is hard work with long days and uncertainty. The job can take a physical and mental toll, no matter how much a farmer loves the land and the animals. Northumberland Federation of Agriculture sponsors a confidential mental wellness program for farmers and their families to support them through the stress and isolation. The service provides four counselling sessions free of charge. And you can do this virtually in the comfort of your home or in person after the initial consultation
