Elizabeth & Kenneth Lundeen Named Honorary Chairs of 19th Annual Celebration of the Arts in Howard County

The Howard County Arts Council (HCAC) is pleased to announce that Elizabeth and Kenneth Lundeen will serve as Honorary Chairs of the 2016 Celebration of the Arts in Howard County. The Celebration gala will be held on Saturday, March 19, 2016 from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. at the Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center at Howard Community College. Mr. and Mrs. Lundeen will make opening remarks in the Smith Theatre during the 90-minute program, which features the Rising Star Competition.

Elizabeth and Ken Lundeen are active consumers and supporters of the arts. Ken has served on the Center Stage Board of Trustees for the last 25 years and is a former Board member of the Columbia Festival of the Arts. Together they have chaired and organized various events for these and other arts organizations. Ken is the president of Environmental Reclamation Company. Both are long-time residents of Howard County and have attended every Celebration of the Arts from 2000.

About the Celebration gala, Ken Lundeen said, "Elizabeth and I are pleased to serve as Honorary Chairs of what we consider to be the artistic highlight of the year in Howard County. Rivaling the opportunity for the participating artists is the opportunity for the audience to experience in one evening a diverse array of the visual and performing arts presented at a very high level." Elizabeth Lundeen added, "I cannot say enough positive about this incredible event. It offers an opportunity for emerging performers from our community to showcase their artistic talents on stage before a full house, coupled with a chance to win a financial award that will help further their artistic goals."

The Celebration is the Arts Council's major source of annual corporate support. In 18 years, the event has netted more than $1.3 million. Proceeds from the event provide the Arts Council with the resources necessary to fund grants and scholarships, to support a guest artist series at HCC, and to offer arts programs year-round. A highlight of Celebration 2016 will be the Rising Star competition for emerging performing artists. The winner of the competition receives a $5,000 professional development award. Richard W. Story, Senior Vice President, Community Relations and Government Affairs, and Business Development Liaison for Howard Bank, will serve as Event Emcee. Other highlights include a reception featuring delectable edibles from distinctive Howard County restaurants, a silent auction of artwork by local artists, musical entertainment, and the Howie Awards, recognizing individuals and businesses for their significant contributions to the arts.

Sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, and internships are available. Tickets are $100 (Reception and Smith Theatre) and $50 (Reception and Studio Theatre). For more information, call 410.313.ARTS (2787) or visit hocoarts.org.