In contrast to the biting cold of last year, Savour the Chill, downtown Belleville’s celebrated soup making competition enjoyed almost tropical weather. No doubt this was responsible for the record turnout and the dispensing of fifteen hundred litres of savoury liquids. Volunteers from Bridge Street United Church ensured everything ran smoothly. Celebrities Carson Arthur and Matt DeMille and the judging panel concluded that last year’s winner Chilango’s would retain their crown. Toro Sushi picked up the People’s Choice award. Can they maintain the momentum?
Good news from the ‘District Spaces’ whose initiative has resulted in more business locating in the downtown. Bree’s Bookkeeping & Taxes and Crepe Escape are now open for business.
Ideal Bike has an improved selection of e-bikes and pedal-assist bikes to explore and much new inventory for 2020. Don’t forget the service department is always there to help. Ideal Bike is also the area’s sole retailer of long board and skateboards. Talk to Ed if you want to get on your bike. idealbike.com
In an endorsement of the downtown, Lafferty’s Crossings celebrates its third year of success. Says Murray, “The new location was a timely as the core is experiencing a rejuvenation. We will continue to offer quality product at very affordable prices. For spring we are introducing sportswear by Lacoste and an we would encourage everyone to take a look.” See more of Lafferty’s Crossings on Facebook.
Miss Priss has new lines of European jewellery, from Spain Ciclon which is characterised by a “bo-ho funky” style and from France, there’s Ori Tao which is funky and chunky. Liquid metal from Miami continues to be popular and so are pearls. A & C offers light weight and very feminine lines which are good for layering. “Jewellery enhances clothing, come shopping for clothes and leave with a comple look!” says Julie. See Miss Priss on Facebook.
UpFront Gallery & Home Store is all about the big picture. “We specialize in custom window coverings and furniture, at the best prices around offering floor to ceiling solutions for every room” says Diane. After building the successful retail store, Diane is again offering staging and design consulting services. Examples of her work can be seen on her website. For DIYers, Diane offers workshops in chalk painting, decoupage, and distressed furniture painting techniques. upfrontgallery.com
Spah owner Connie Bourgoin rejoices in her new space on the ground level. Skin care, facials, pedicures and waxing are keeping the team busy. Sugaring if offered as gentle alternative to waxing. Reflexology is popular, it’s a massage for the feet that targets pressure points relating to all major parts of the body: it leaves you feeling just great. Dr’s. Remedy is a new line of natural nail care products of which the Spah is the sole local supplier.
Karen Poste of City Hall recommends, “Take some time to explore all we have to offer. There’s unique shops and restaurants and great rejuvenation services. Stroll the updated streetscape, soon you’ll be able to hang out on one of the many outdoor patios. Make the most of springtime in Belleville.”
