Belica and Mala Subotica secured victories at the competition of the Međimurje County Association of Retirees, held in Mesap. 632 retirees participated in this year's gathering, with competitors taking part in two categories: singing and the creation of paper baskets and crepe paper flowers.
Ten choirs participated in the competition. The choir from Belica was declared the best, with second place going to the choir from Vratinec, and third place to Sveta Marija. Other choirs that performed included those from Strahoninec, Prelog, Nedelišće, Mihovljan, Donji Vidovec, and Čakovec. A special jury, specifically a judging panel for the song, was responsible for evaluating the performances.
In the category of paper basket and crepe flower creation, first place was awarded to Mala Subotica, specifically to the work by Ruža Ciglar. Second place went to Donja Dubrava, and third to Kotoriba. The works were also evaluated by a special judging panel.
The president of the Međimurje County Association of Retirees, Nadica Lovrec, highlighted that this gathering has been held for the fourth consecutive year. She stated that it is a day that combines singing and creative work. She noted that for the fourth consecutive year, they have a reason for dual celebration: enjoying the beautiful singing of choirs, while the space is adorned with incredible paper works.
Lov added that music heals the soul and erases age, while flowers bring colour and joy to life. She emphasised that true creativity has no limits and, like every sung note, carries within it love, effort, and life experience. She thanked everyone who, by their example, shows that one can live actively in their golden years, with a smile and in community.
Thanks were given to all choirs, the authors of flowers and baskets, the judging panels, the musicians, and the municipalities and the County of Međimurje for their financial support. Following the competitive part, the gathering continued with lunch, song, and dance. Mesap was, once again, the meeting place for many retired people from Međimurje.
