The Bethlehem Murska Sobota Sister Cities flag raising June 12 at Payrow Plaza celebrated the 30 year relationship between the City of Bethlehem and Murska Sobota in Slovenia. Developed during the term of former Mayor Don Cunningham by founder Stephen Antics Jr. the sister city relationship recognized the ties between the two cities and their residents, as well as the preservation of the contributions, culture and history of those connections.

Making her first visit to Bethlehem, Slovenian Consul General Suzana Cesarek, expressed her gratitude for both the invitation to attend as well the work to preserve the Slovenian heritage. She also thanked Antalics from the government of Slovenia. Slovenia is also celebrating its 35th anniversary of statehood according to Cesarek.

“We are thankful to have the relationship with Murska Sobota,” said Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds, who presented a proclamation to Murska Sobota Mayor Damjan Anzelf that proclaimed it Murska Sobota Sister City Day.

“Today we are celebrating the friendship, cooperation and mutual respect between our two cities,” said Anzelj, who presented Reynolds a framed photo of Murska Sobota.

For his efforts thirty years ago Mayor Anzelj awarded Antalics honorary citizenship in Murska Sobota. Noting his 17 visits to Slovenia over three years as he researched the connection to Bethlehem, Antalics reacted saying, “this is a very deep honor for me.”

Northampton County Executive Tara Zrinski reflected on her own search for her foreign roots decades before while visiting Europe. “Understanding who you are is knowing where you came from,” said Zrinski. She noted how strongly her connection to far away Slovenia meant to her during her period of self exploration.

State Rep. Steve Samuelson was unable to attend and had Cheryl Baker present a certificate of recognition on his behalf.

Cunningham raised the American flag and Anzelj raised the Slovenian flag as Betty Silva sang both National Anthems and Alex Gergar accompanied her on the accordion.

Participants attended a luncheon at Saucon Valley Acres following the 30th anniversary celebration.