Final Preparations for the Fall Festival

Final Preparations for the Festival of the Arts
By: Fr. John Hagemann, O.S.B.

We are making the final preparations for this year’s Festival of the Arts. Yesterday I put up the Mount Michael banner that was used when we traveled to Des Moines to see the then-new Pope, John Paul II. Along with it, I placed one of Br. Mel’s hats on the same pole. I feel it brings Mount Michael nothing but the best.

I would also like to give a shout out to Tom Hastings, a classmate of mine from our college days at SJS. He has partnered with fellow alum Tony Tang in a business called Grandpa Tom’s Heritage. They provided much of the food for my 50th anniversary on August 8, and their products will be available at the festival in the Guest House.

The pickled asparagus is to die for, and of course there are many other favorites too: pickled eggs, sausages both mild and hot, and more. I encourage you to stop by and try them.

Both Tom and Tony are proud alumni of Mount Michael. Tony continues to share his musical gifts and will accompany us at the concert in the chapel at 2 p.m. Tom has also been a generous benefactor for many years. Let us show our gratitude and support for them by visiting the Guest House during the festival.

I look forward to seeing many of you this Sunday. Be sure to visit me at my flower stand where I will be handing out complimentary apple crisp.