What with all that’s going on in recent weeks – oil gushing into the Gulf, attempts to pass another worthless NYS gun control law, no state budget, rain-induced lawn grass and weed growth, etc., etc.– some of us may not be taking the time to exhale and enjoy what good weather we normally get now to partake in some of our plentiful local outdoor recreation.

Since the month of June normally offers us some of the best weather conditions we’ll see prior to the heat and humidity of July and August, let’s not waste too much of it. Regardless of your interests there’s far more available to do right around here than you might imagine. All it takes is a bit of investigating and planning to enlighten yourself to the what-and-where.

Although fishing ranks right up there with many, just about any sporting activity involving water has a host of fans. If you have a canoe or kayak, or a friend that does, consider a leisurely trip down one of our scenic rivers – the Chenango, Unadilla, Upper Susquehanna, or Tioughnioga. Pack a lunch and some beverages and take a short lunch break along the way. Oh, and you might want to take along a camera (in a waterproof bag of course) because you never know what sights you may encounter, be they wildlife or scenery. If you fish, toss in that gear and catch a few fish along the way and take a few “grab-and-grin” shots of your catches.