“We are deeply grateful for the recent contributions from the Birdsong Foundation, as they are evidence of the foundation’s commitment to a vibrant Assembly Center for members of the Virginia United Methodist Conference and beyond,” said Executive Director Samuel A. McCracken.  “Such generosity to the Assembly Center greatly aids our progress as we work to ensure a financially stronger future.”

Originally started as a farm supply store in 1914, Birdsong Peanuts has become a world leader in the peanut industry.  The company shells raw peanuts (purchased from peanut farmers) and markets them to customers throughout the world. Birdsong Peanuts operates plants in Georgia, Texas and Virginia and supplies manufacturers both domestically and internationally.

Dr. Jennifer L. Braaten was the keynote speaker assisted by her husband Rev. Conrad A. Braaten.  Dr. Braaten has served as President of Ferrum College since 2002 and was previously President at Midland Lutheran College in Fremont, Nebraska.  She was the first woman president at both institutions.  Rev. Braaten is a retired Lutheran minister.

The Revs. Brandon and Rachel Gilmore, pastors in the Elizabeth River District, served as worship leaders.

Josh Wortham, Music Director and Organist atChesterUnitedMethodistChurchprovided the weekend’s music.

Revs. Ed and Libby Wright conducted the 50^th Anniversary Celebration.

The following parody was written by Libby Wright, Pat Mumford and friends in celebration of the 50^th Anniversary:

“Happiness Is Coming To Blackstone”

Happiness is coming to Blackstone

Isn’t it great to be here today?

Happiness is greeting our old friends

And making new ones – don’t rush away.

Happiness is laughing a lot at the way we live—

And happiness is learning how to give.

Happiness is coming to Blackstone

Just with your good friends, no telephone.

Happiness is learning who’s moving—

Knowing you won’t be packing this year.

Happiness is counting your blessings sent from above.

And Happiness is fun with those you love.

Happiness is morning and evening; daytime and nighttime, too—

For happiness is anyone and anything at all—

That’s loved by you.

Blackstone

 Retreat, Renew and Know Christ’s Peace

2012 Board members photographed left to right:  Rev. James M.Tongue, Chair; Jim Bergdoll, Rev. Jeane D. Dunkum, Co-Secretary; Debra A. Broadwater, Dolly Porter, UMW Representative; Catherine Bolton, Co-Secretary; Frances Johnston, Former Board Chair; Samuel A. McCracken, Executive Director; Rev. E. Tommy Herndon, Jr.; Rev. Herndon P. Jeffreys III, Rev. Gerould A. Ward, Jr.; Rev. Burton E. White, Mary R. Jordan, The Honorable Glen A. Huff, Treasurer; Donn L. Lee, Donald L. Myers, Vice-Chair; Rev. Lee B. Sheaffer.  Not Present: Rev. Marc D. Brown, William DuBois, Rev. Robert J. Parks, Jr.; Jennifer Secki Shields

Reuben L. Blanton, Jr., Rev. Gene Tatum, Mary Nell Tatum and Sam McCracken stand in the stripped down parlor.

The New Year is beginning in an exciting way for the Blackstone Conference and Retreat Center.   A generous gift has been given in memory of Nell Ruth Clay Blanton by her son, Reuben L. Blanton, Jr. and her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Nell Blanton Tatum and Rev. Gene C. Tatum.  This gift and memorials made by friends at the time of her death will be used to renovate and refurbish the first floor parlor (room 113).  Mrs. Blanton graduated in 1937 from Blackstone College for Girls.

“I can think of no better way to memorialize our Mother than to renovate a room in her memory at Blackstone.  Blackstone College and the Church were very special to her,” said Mary Nell Tatum.

“We are thrilled with the Blanton/Tatum gift in memory of their mother Nell Blanton.   Their generosity is a dream come true as we strive to begin much needed renovation work to this wonderful historic property,” said Executive Director Sam McCracken.

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January 16, 2012

On November 4 & 5, the 34th Annual United Methodist Men’s Spiritual Life Retreat lit up Blackstone.

November 4 – 5, 2011