As will be obvious to readers of this issue of Arts in Guelph the year 2000 is more than just the beginning of the new millennium for Guelph Arts Council. It also marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of Guelph Arts Council. You will also have read of the many accomplishments chalked up over the past quarter of a century, and, we hope, noted our plans to celebrate this 25th Anniversary on Wednesday, April 19, 2000.
So, if you haven’t done so already, do circle that date on your calendars now, and plan to join us at 7:30 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church. What we’d also like you to do is reflect on the moments when Guelph Arts Council has touched your life. Without you, our members and supporters, Guelph Arts Council could not have survived for 25 days — let alone 25 years.
For our 20th anniversary we wrote a play about our history. This year, we will create a “River of Time” – a paper mural and the accompanying stories that mark the currents and waterfalls, the whirlpools and the smooth waters of the first 25 years of Guelph Arts Council’s life.
So, jump right in – the water’s fine! We’ll organize some of the tales but we’re sure you have some stories of your own. Whether you’ve known Guelph Arts Council for 25 years, or just for a few months, what do you remember best? If you have a photo, news clipping, anecdote or memento that illustrates or symbolizes your story, please bring it (or a copy) along on April 19, share it with others and add it to the River of Time.
We’ll enjoy some music, refreshments and good company, and take a little time for the usual business of an annual general meeting. We’ll update you on the activities of the past year, and elect members to fill vacancies on our Board of Directors. For, Although the day-to-day operation of Guelph Arts Council is managed by the elected Board with the assistance of office staff, these individuals are all ultimately responsible to you, the membership of the Council.
But mostly on April 19, we will celebrate the “community” in our community arts council, affirming the arts, culture and heritage that have made Guelph the unique city that it is today. In these times of cuts and retrenchment, such an affirmation will give us all a boost.
So, put yourself in the flow! Come celebrate Guelph Arts Council’s 25th Anniversary on April 19. Join in the happy birthday chorus! If your organization is a group or business member of Guelph Arts Council, plan to send a representative. Support the arts in your community!
If you are coming, we’d appreciate having your RSVP in advance. Also, if you want more information about the event or about Guelph Arts Council membership or about serving on the Guelph Arts Council Board of Directors, call (519) 836-3280. Our fax is (519) 766-9212, and our email is gac@sentex.net. Or you can drop into our office at 147 Wyndham Street, Suite 404, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.
— SW