Bunch nominated for arts award
Published 9:58 pm Thursday, November 6, 2008
As vice president of the board of directors of the Cultural Alliance of Greater Hampton Roads, Linda Bunch knew she would be closely involved with the program associated with the group’s ALLI Awards.
Still, she said, it came as a surprise when she learned that her fellow Alliance board members had nominated her for one of their awards.
“I’m extremely flattered by that,” she said. “It’s nice to know they think that much of me.”
The ALLI Awards are given by the Cultural Alliance to recognize the contributions and achievements of businesses, media, arts professionals and volunteers.
Bunch, the executive director of the Suffolk Art League, was nominated in the professional category for her commitment to the Suffolk Art League through leadership, creativity and extraordinary fundraising ability.
As executive director, Bunch helps coordinate the class offerings, exhibits, outreach programs and school programs. She writes grants, helps staff the Suffolk Museum, helps coordinate the art league’s antique show, and keeps up with the hundreds of art league members.
“It was a real honor that my board thought that I was worthy,” she said. “They’re all very worthy candidates.”
Bunch is up against 11 others from throughout Hampton Roads for the award in the professional category. Others include Robert Arthur, currently a finalist for poet laureate of Virginia; Hugh Copeland, founder and artistic director of the Hurrah Players; and Peter Mark, artistic director and principal conductor for the Virginia Opera since 1975.
The awards will be presented on Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, 206 High St., Portsmouth. Members of Todd Rosenlieb Dance and the Porte Towne Magic! Orchestra will perform. The ceremony begins at 4 p.m., and a reception and buffet supper, catered by Rodman’s Barbecue, will follow.
Attendees are encouraged to play with the many interactive exhibits in the museum, as well. Some tickets, on sale for $50, are still available.
For more information, call 889-9479 or visit www.culturalli.org.