More than 160 people were on hand for the annual 161st annual Belleville Chamber of Commerce President’s Dinner.
Chamber President Chris Auger presented Loyalist College President Mark Kirkpatrick with the President’s Recognition Award for his dedicated support of the board. Auger says the award is for Kirkpatrick’s dedicated support of the board of directors and government affairs committee, which has moved the advocacy efforts of the Belleville Chamber to both provincial and federal recognition within the chamber network. He has also made significant effort to use local suppliers where possible, and convened a public procurement session to assist small business owners navigate the process of bidding through Supply Ontario and other barriers that provincially-funded agencies must consider when spending money.
Chris Auger, Trent Valley Distributors received recognition for his service as the 160th president in 2024/2025, presented by President Lisa Comerford, Central Lakes Association of Realtors. Mayor Neil Ellis also presented Chris with the Heart of the City, a new commendation created to recognize the work of individuals to the community through the chamber.
The Community Partner award is presented to a person or organization that has been a valued partner with chamber initiatives and they receive the honorary “Key to the Cabin.” The tradition started with the Rotary Club of Belleville, in honour of the 100-year commitment to work together. This year, Aspira Quinte Gardens was presented the Key to the Cabin for their willingness to step up every day in any way to support the community. Whether it is the offer of a patio or meeting space, a free lunch for the AGM or important learning sessions, or even to help out partnering organizations with catering – the team at Quinte Gardens has been absolutely wonderful anytime they’re asked to help.
Dr Aruna Alexander was given the Citizenship Award CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Jeff Cox was the winner of the Founder Award CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Amber Darling took the Mentor Award CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Lisa and Rob Hallsworth went home with the Visionary Award CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
The Legacy Award was given to the Raycroft Family CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Finally, Bernie Ouellet was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Bernie is not new to awards for his compassion, but rarely do people talk about the reputation and businesses he’s supported in the community through his own vision. Bernie joins past recipients Maurice Rollins, Gerry Bongard, Alvin Parkhurst, Ed Lehtinen, Armin Quickert, Bob Doyle, Peter Knudsen and Roli & Linda Tipper for his continued service to the transportation industry and property development in Belleville.
