Blackstock News

by Janet Van Camp

The Van Camp, Rudkin, and Bisschop families recently celebrated the baptism and first birthday of Archer Michael Dale Van Camp at the Blackstock Nestleton United Church. What a lucky boy to have had great-grandparents (Jake and Barb Bisschop), grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, great-aunts and uncles, and a great-great-aunt (Aileen Van Camp) in attendance. Lots of visiting took place in the afternoon.

The Blackstock Agricultural Society has started its annual sponsorship campaign. If you would like to be a sponsor, please contact Janet Van Camp (bassponsorshipchair@gmail.com), and you will receive information via email. Your support helps make our events possible.

The Blackstock Truck and Tractor Pull is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this summer. This is a remarkable feat for a small community! Times have certainly changed, as the prize money offered 50 years ago is nothing like the almost $30,000 offered this year. Of course, the competing trucks and tractors have changed dramatically as well! The Truck and Tractor Pull takes place on July 3rd and 4th, and the Fair and Demolition Derby on August 22nd.

At the end of March, the Blackstock Curling Club enjoyed a potluck meal at the Church. Prizes were awarded to the top three teams from each schedule. Winners of the second schedule were: 1st-Ron Vivian, Lois Vivian, Meredith Woodland and Steve Borovskis; 2nd-Chris Duke, Karen Duke, Abi Duke and Dustin Gervais; 3rd-Steve Bailey, Drew Bailey, Corrie Stender, and Chase Prouse. Thanks to the Executive for organizing another wonderful season of curling and socializing.

Blackstock Nestleton United Church will be closing at the end of June this year. There are four upcoming special dates which you might want to add to your calendars. On April 26th, Elizabeth Peeters will speak about growing up in the Blackstock community and her memories of Sunday School. The second will be on May 10th, with a service celebrating the UCW and its role within the Church and the community. The theme for May 24th will be Memories. People are asked to submit their memories of BNUC via email to Rev. Jennifer Uhryniw (jennifer.uhryniw@gmail.com), and she will include these in her reflection for the day. Finally, on June 28th, a final Celebration of the Life of BNUC will take place where former ministers will be recognized and favourite music will be shared. This service will be followed by a potluck lunch, and there will be an open mic for people to share their memories of Blackstock Nestleton United Church.