I don't know if everyone in the National Assembly now has a reading badge.

On August 10, 2026, the annual gathering at Prežihova Bajta took place, marking the birthday of Voranc Prežih, a beloved figure in Slovenian cultural life. The event, held under the auspices of the Koroska Regional Museum (KPM), focused on the theme of reading, particularly highlighting the 65th anniversary of the first issue of the reading badge on the Prevalje. This tradition, which has long been associated with the celebration of Voranc Prežih’s legacy, drew its usual circle of devoted attendees, though numbers were reportedly lower than in previous years. The day was also marked by the passing of Slavko Pregl, a respected writer who had served as president of the Reading Badge Association. His death at the age of 81 was noted during the event, with his contributions to Slovenian literature acknowledged by guest speaker Tone Partljič, a prominent Slovenian author. Partljič, who took over the role of association president following Pregl's passing, paid tribute to Pregl’s enduring influence on Slovenian literary culture and emphasized his unique significance. During a conversation with Darko Tancer Kajnih, longtime editor of the magazine Otrok in knjiga, Partljič shared several anecdotes tied to the creation of his novel Voranc and his personal experiences of living in the region. He reflected on how the people of Koroška continue to speak of Voranc with personal names, viewing him as an irreplaceable treasure. Partljič expressed his ongoing commitment to the project, noting that he continues to take on new responsibilities, including the upcoming release of a continuation of his novel. Župan Raven Tomaž Rožen, representing both the Prežihova Foundation and the local municipality, outlined activities between last year’s and this year’s gatherings. These included the publication of Partljič’s novel and the anthology Neznani znani Prežih, edited by Irena Oder and Silvija Borovnik, which was released during a symposium on Voranc in Ravnica. Some excerpts from the anthology were distributed among participants, underscoring the community’s engagement with literary initiatives. Rožen also highlighted the importance of finding financial support for publishing quality works and encouraged continued reading, emphasizing that readers should not become confused or disheartened. Partljič echoed these sentiments, recalling past challenges in securing funding for excellent ideas and stressing the value of previously supported publications backed by the town council. The discussion turned to the broader implications of reading, with Partljič noting that while there are rockets in space, traffic on roads, and more boats in water, people still walk and swim, just as they have always done, and will continue to read. Darka Tancer Kajnih further elaborated on parallels between Prežih and Partljič, focusing on their relationship with the individual, social sensitivity, and civic engagement. The event concluded with a musical program curated by Luka Pernek and Lucija Štrekelj. Before the main gathering, traditional flower arrangements were made in the town square, with roses placed at the entrance of the local library in honor of Voranc. Attendees brought flowers as part of the initiative inspired by the movement “Radmance,” symbolizing a lasting connection to the cultural heritage celebrated each year at Prežihova Bajta.