Last night on the eve of the holiday the Prešeren prizes for special achievements in arts and culture were given away. The evening ceremony focused on tradition. This year's prize recepients are novelist Vladimir Kavčič and composer and author Pavle Merku.

In his acceptance speech Mr. Kavčič touched on Slovenia’s future and the problems the country faces not only in culture. He warned of the rising number of young people leaving the country in search of work, and the threats that Slovenia’s language and culture face.

Receiving the prize Mr. Merku was more emotional and touched on his illness and how much this award meant to him. He said he’ll die a happy man.

K. J., Radio Si