Slovenian Statehood was celebrated with a gathering at Cleveland City Hall and the Terminal Tower lit up in the colors of the Slovenian flag.
Consul General Alenka Jerak presented the successes of Slovenia in the 32 years of independence in many areas, as well as special relations with Ohio - especially with Cleveland, Ljubljana's sister city. The most deserving members of the community were honored with proclamations by the Office for Slovenes Abroad and the Consulate General in Cleveland.
Speakers included Mayor of Cleveland Justin Bibb, Cuyahoga County Executive Director Chris Ronanye, the only Slovenian Councilman Mike Polensek and former Ohio Senate Minority Leader, State Senator Kenny Yuko. Proclamations were received from Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Mayor Bibb. Consul General Alenka Jerak and Mayor Justin Bibb
The cultural program was provided by Mojca Slak, Clari-ton trio, the folklore group Kres and accordionist Kathy Hlad.
Joe Valencic prepared an interesting exhibition entitled "Slovenes in the USA", while the SNPJ Cultural Heritage Center from Pennsylvania presented a traveling exhibition of Slovenian cultural heritage.Guests were able to try home-made culinary delights, as well as wine from Goriška Brda , Kukec beer from the Žalec beer fountain, and famous Radenska sparkle water.
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