The third annual Calhoun’s Got Talent brought in more than $11,000 in ticket sales over the three show time period, July 21, July 28 and August 4. Winners of the $1,000 first prize were brothers and talent duo, 20-year-old Aric Bunch and 18-year-old Michael Bunch. The second place winner of $500 was 23-year-old Arielle Lawrence, and the third place prize of $200 was 43-year-old Angela Childers. The three finalists were chosen from a group of 20 talented singers, but only three could win. The show, normally held at the Harris Arts Center, was moved to the GEM Theatre to seat the large number of tickets sold in the past two years of the show.

“There was so much great talent in the show that we were really surprised to hear our names called for first place,” said first place winner Aric Bunch. “Overall, we would just like to thank everyone who supported us, and we are very grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of it. It was an honor to get to perform alongside such friendly and talented people.”

When asked about their plans for the prize money they received the Bunch brothers replied they would be giving a portion of it back to their church, after splitting it evenly between one another.

“Of course, we will split the $1000 50/50. First, we will be setting aside some of it to give to the church,” said Aric Bunhc. “After that, we plan to save what we can, but some of it will certainly go towards paying for our educations.”