Chamber News

At the recent Heritage Week celebration event on Feb. 22, two of the three recipients receiving the 2024 Outstanding Achievement in Heritage Revitalization from Heritage Belleville are proud Belleville Chamber members.  We congratulate YourTV Quinte and Meyers Creek Brewing Company.   

Karen Fisk, Chair of Heritage Belleville, presented YourTV Quinte with a ‘Preservation of Historical Significance’ award for the many shows it presents that demonstrate the history and cultural expression of Belleville’s past. Ann Werkoven, Producer at YourTV, accepted the award and thanked the City of Belleville and Heritage Belleville for its past partnerships.

Nancy Roberts, Heritage Belleville committee member, presented the award for Outstanding Revitalization to Zubin Gillespie and Kim Fedor from Buhran Developments Inc. for their restoration of 212-214 Front Street (Cummins building). It is the company’s third restoration in downtown Belleville and the Blue Violin demonstrates creativity, detail and artistry in its two renovated suites.

The third award was presented by Mark Stoliker, Heritage Belleville Committee member, to Meyers Creek Brewing for Landmark Revitalization. The original structure of Meyers Creek Brewing was built in 1884. Gretta Barnwell, one of the owners, described the preservation process which showcases not only the heritage brick wall but also the 100-year-old newspaper found in the walls. The property has an eclectic history that connects with the community and its history.

“Belleville is very fortunate to have these three brave pioneers who share their visions of revitalization and preservation with all of us,” said Heritage Belleville Chair Karen Fisk. “Thank you.” 

The awards were preceded by the premiere of the film , “Belleville City Hall:  Journey to Icon”, a Cogeco YourTV Quinte production and were followed by a question-and-answer period with Richard Hughes and JP Lemieux. The audience was very appreciative and asked many questions about the preservation of Belleville’s most cherished properties.