CULLMAN, Ala. – St. Bernard Prep School is no exception to feeling the impact of the coronavirus pandemic including its 36th Annual Bloomin’ Festival Arts and Crafts Fair. Governor Kay Ivey ordered all events postponed and nonessential businesses closed statewide until April 30 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Once school dismissed for spring break, students were advised to “shelter in place” for the next two weeks, which turned into virtual learning for the remainder of the academic year. Regrettably, due to circumstances beyond our control, the 36th Annual Bloomin’ Festival is canceled. However, as promised, the Jeep Renegade and other prizes will be given away at 4 p.m. April 19 via Facebook Live.
Festival Director Joyce Nix said, “We are heartbroken. Our school depends on this festival for daily operations of the good work we do here at St. Bernard. We held out to the last minute to make this call, but at the end of the day the health and safety of our monks, students, faculty, staff, visitors, and guests is our top priority.”
The school has refunded thousands of dollars in booth fees to the artisans who are also struggling as the majority have had no shows this year due to the pandemic.
The good news is someone will win the 2020 Jeep Renegade on Sunday, April 19, as the school will give away the prizes as scheduled. Tickets for the prize giveaway as well as festival t-shirts may be purchased online by visiting www.bloominfestival.com.
“The monks join me in saying ‘Thank you!’ for supporting the work we do at St. Bernard. We appreciate each of you and ask you to join us as we pray for complete healing of our nation and especially the healthcare, medical, and emergency workers,” Nix continued.
Saint Bernard looks forward to hosting the fourth annual Bernard Blues and BBQ festival Sept.12-13, 2020.
