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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​After 10 years, Linda Welch has stepped down as the President of the Society of York Region Artists. She was a dedicated and hardworking president, making SOYRA and its members a priority, and always pushing forward for the betterment of art in our communities.

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Linda has now assumed the role of Past-President, which comes with a different set of responsibilities, and a continued relationship with SOYRA.

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At the last members’ meeting of 2024, Linda gave a heartfelt farewell speech, as did many of the executive members who had the privilege of working with Linda over the years. She was surprised by the celebration and afterward, in an email to the executive, she wrote something we would like to share will all of you.

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“To my party planners with affection,

 

A remarkable evening I won't soon forget...if ever. 

 

Such thoughtful planning and very secretive, I might add. Who knew you guys could keep a secret??? I guessed there would be cake and maybe flowers - and I would have been very happy with that. Then the emails from Lucy and Shelley Ware, Aurora Special Events. Then, Phil Rose, Mgr Aurora Town Square walked in....and your personal tributes. 

 

I loved having you share how we met and became involved with SOYRA. That must have been so inspiring to those in the audience. We are not just about art; we are about relationships and your words moved me more than you can imagine.  

 

But - I am very glad I did not open the envelope in the bouquet until I got home. Your gift was so very unexpected and so very generous....I am beyond words....and tears did flow. I am very touched by the way you honoured me and will enjoy planning my next special workshop. You truly are a remarkable group of friends. XO

 

Sincerely,

Linda"