The City of Bethlehem held its annual St. Patrick’s Day Flag Raising March 15, as the Irish flag was hoisted by Bethlehem businessman Neville Gardner, members of the city of Bethlehem Pipe Band played Irish melodies, two members of the Liberty HS Grenadier Band performed “The Star Spangled Banner,” and students at the O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance high stepped to several Irish tunes on the Payrow Plaza. Mayor Bob Donchez hosted the annual event noting “Today we carry on the tradition of celebrating the Irish,” and citing their accomplishments and participation in the community. Donchez also recognized Pipe Major James Ruhf, a participant in the annual event for twenty-five years, with an official proclamation making it ‘James Ruhf Day’ in Bethlehem.