Published in The BANAR September 2007
by Al Haggerty, Proud resident since 1969
All of the volunteers who contributed to the success of this year’s Fun Fair are to be thanked and congratulated. The joy and excitement displayed on the faces of the children and their parents was well worth the effort.
On this 40th Anniversary of Blackburn Hamlet, it was most appropriate that Eldon and Lois Kemp should be parade marshals. As one of the original resident families of Blackburn, they overtly welcomed the new arrivals who swarmed into the new development created by Costain in 1967. Lois was an energetic, guiding light during the early years of the Fun Fair and much of its success can legitimately be attributed to her Herculean efforts.
The very first Fun Fair was a one-evening affair held at Glen Ogilvie School in 1971. A full-day affair followed in 1972 and was very successful, even though the organizers had to contend with a torrential deluge from Hurricane Hazel. The fair has grown and changed over the years but the main theme has always been the support of “Community” and “Children”.
Finally, and most emphatically, appreciation is extended to this year’s chair, Jennifer Cloutier. She would undoubtedly refer to a full team effort and to that there would be no argument. However, with every successful enterprise, there has to be a leader and Jenn most certainly met that qualification. She was everywhere! Responding to queries of all kinds, making suggestions, providing instructions and always smiling. People could not help but want to assist her in every way possible. She is but one of the new generation’s shining lights within the hamlet and, to us original owners, a source of satisfaction that the community spirit of which we have been so proud is being carried forward with exemplary zeal. Congratulations all!