Gray skies and drizzle forced the annual Slovenian flag raising ceremony from Payrow Plaza into Town Hall on June 23, but the spirit of those in attendance was not dampened.

Bethlehem-Murska Sobota Sister Cities Association founder Stephen Antalics Jr. acted as master of ceremonies and Robi Poredos of the Slovenian Press Agency gave the invocation and benediction.

The guest speaker was Deputy Chief of Mission at the Republic of Slovenia Embassy Vladimir Kolmanic, who attended with his wife, Vesna, and son, Amir. Kolmanic noted the 26th anniversary of Slovenian independence and 21st anniversary of the Sister City relationship between Bethlehem and Murska Sobota.

Alex Karras represented Mayor Bob Donchez offering welcoming remarks and Rosemary Hensel presented a proclamation recognizing Slovenian independence and the Sister Cities Association on behalf of Representative Steve Samuelson.

Alex Gergar provided musical accompaniment and Betty Sylva and Frank Podleiszek led the singing of both country’s national anthems and “America the Beautiful.”