Chamber News

Oh, what a night!!!  Truly an evening to celebrate some special people for their contributions to the Chamber and the community.  We tried something new last year by adding the Cornerstone Awards to the traditional swearing in of your President and Board Recognition and I think we've tapped into something special by creating an opportunity to recognize people and share some amazing stories.  

	Getting ready to greet you - Rosi, Matt, Susan and I dragged Don Udall into the traditional "Staff" photo - we have to make sure the camera is working of course!  Thanks to Michael Brethour for capturing the evening's events in the best light possible!
A great group shot of our Past-Presidents in attendance, following the official swearing in of new President, Jon Tuer - Mayor Mitch Panciuk serving double duty as both Mayor AND Past President.  Back row: Richard Courneyea, Craig Rushnell, Jody Brooker, Tim Farrell, Suzanne Hunt, Jon Tuer, Mitch Panciuk  Front row: Ray Dassylva, Matt Gemmell, Jody Brooker, Derrick Morgan
	Past President Suzanne Hunt, presents Derrick Morgan for his years of service on the Board from 2014-1018
Sarah Hannah was the recipient of the President's Recognition award this year - presented to a member that has been instrumental in assisting the president in carrying out their duties or supporting the Chamber's activities.
	President Jon Tuer recognizing Suzanne Hunt for her term as President.  Mayor Mitch Panciuk also presented Suzanne Hunt with a key to the City - a new tradition that recognizes the importance of the work and relationship between the City & the Chamber.
Guenther Huettlin, GH Manufacturing, was presented with the Cornerstone Founder's Award for his continued efforts in manufacturing and commitment to his employees and the United Way.  Get the full story
	Paul Stinson, Stinson Builders Ltd.  was also recognized as a Founder for his 40+ years in the construction business and support for local organizations.  Get the full story
Sandie Sidsworth, CMHA was recognized as our Cornerstone Mentor and was moved to tears when she received a standing ovation as she received her award.  Get the full story

	Rhonda Barriage, Beauty Works Day & Medi Spa brought esthetics to Belleville over 40 years ago, long before the skin care and wellness industry became possible for most and was credited as a Visionary with her award. Get the full story
Alvin Parkhurst, Parkhurst Transportation, was presented the 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award by our 2018 recipient, Gerry Bongard, Stephen Licence.   Alvin still goes in every morning at 5:00 am to greet the drivers and wish them a safe day.  He will be celebrating his 93rd birthday this summer.  Get the full story

The CORNERSTONE Awards

The FOUNDER award is presented to a Chamber member who has built a business from its beginning or expanded an existing business that enhances the reputation of Belleville as a place where business can come to grow.   

The VISIONARY award will be presented to a Chamber member who has seen an opportunity to revive or create something unique or unprecedented. Their dedication to this vision has resulted in raising the profile of Belleville and has contributed to the overall prosperity of the community.

The MENTOR award will be presented to a Chamber member who, through their daily work, intentionally or not, helps develop others with their leadership and guidance.

The CITIZENSHIP award will be presented to a Chamber member who has embraced the spirit of the community by their selfless acts and support to causes that improve the lives of Belleville’s citizens.  This award will be presented at a later date.

 Ultimately, the winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award could receive each of these awards individually – and as we begin the process of recognizing the pillars of our business community, there is no doubt some should win in multiple categories now.