Published: February 28, 2002
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-102.pdf
About This Issue
This celebratory issue of Hrvatska Iskra is a joyful tribute to the XIX Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City and Croatia’s shining star, Janica Kostelić. Editor Valentina Krčmar captures the pride, emotion, and unity felt across the Croatian diaspora in Canada as Janica skied her way into history — becoming the first woman to win four Olympic medals in alpine skiing.
The edition blends national pride, personal reflection, and community spirit, offering both emotional and intellectual depth. It covers everything from Janica’s triumphs to commentary on Milošević’s trial, Croatian politics, and health advice, all delivered in the warm, conversational tone that defines Iskra.
Editorial: “A Letter from the Editor”
Valentina opens her editorial with heartfelt gratitude and awe, writing directly to her readers — “you and I, Croat to Croat, understand each other these days.” She describes how Janica’s Olympic success brought light and joy after years of worry and heartache over Croatia’s struggles.
She sharply criticizes the Swiss skier Sonja Neff for calling the Croatian anthem “ugly,” labeling such comments as unworthy of a true athlete.
“Our anthem played three times first. How could anyone not feel proud? In our souls there is only celebration — not bitterness.”
Valentina praises Janica’s humility and patriotism, calling her “a true lady — simple, hardworking, and devoted to her homeland.” She admits she would dedicate the entire issue to Janica if not for the pressing realities in Croatia and the ongoing Milošević trial in The Hague.
“What is happening in The Hague is a mockery of justice. The victims now face the man who destroyed their lives — and he questions them. It is a slap in the face to truth.”
She closes by lamenting the transformation of the once-beloved Matica Iseljenika into a politicized publication after the resignation of Nenad Goll, expressing nostalgia for “the beautiful, lively magazine we once enjoyed.”
Feature: “Janica — Symbol of a New Era”
The front-page feature, “Janica — Symbol of a New Croatia,” describes her as a national heroine whose perseverance reflects the rebirth of Croatia itself.
“If Goran Ivanišević symbolized the end of one turbulent Croatia with his Wimbledon victory, Janica’s triumph marks the beginning of a new one — steadfast, humble, and hardworking.”
Her father and coach, Ante Kostelić, is praised for raising athletes who owe nothing to politics or privilege. His guiding principle:
“Everything we have was given to us by the Croatian flag.”
The article contrasts Janica’s simple beginnings with the magnitude of her achievements, emphasizing how she inspired not only athletes but an entire nation to believe in itself again.
Olympic Reflections: “Canadians and Croatians United in Pride”
A beautifully written essay celebrates the Olympics as a shared victory for Canada and Croatia.
As Canadians of Croatian heritage, Valentina writes, “we were doubly blessed.” Canadians rejoiced in their first hockey gold in 50 years, while Croatians around the world were united in awe as Janica captured medal after medal.
“We didn’t know which hat to wear — the Canadian or the Croatian — because both are ours.”
Valentina notes that Janica’s success is proof that greatness can come from modest beginnings:
“Janica showed us that even without wealth or privilege, with faith, love, and hard work, anything is possible.”
News & Reports
The issue also includes updates from Croatia and the diaspora:
-
Refik Šabanović arrives as Croatia’s new Consul General in Toronto, warmly welcomed by the community.
-
Croatian youth prepare to host pilgrims for the World Youth Day 2002 visit of Pope John Paul II.
-
A new Croatian library and reading room opens in Mississauga, built entirely by volunteers.
-
Readers are invited to send congratulatory emails to Janica at janica@hrt.hr.
Letters from Readers
Readers across Canada express joy and admiration for Janica’s victories and gratitude to Iskra for chronicling them.
One letter from Jagoda Smeh condemns Canada’s refusal to issue a visa to Dr. Miroslav Tuđman, calling it “an absurd injustice” and questioning why the community has not spoken out.
Another, from Toni Novaković, writes tenderly from a retirement home, thanking Valentina for “articles about Zagreb that bring tears to my eyes.”
Community & Culture
The Croatian Hunters and Anglers Club Jelen hosts its annual dinner in Toronto, celebrating camaraderie and tradition with venison and wild game stew.
Reports also highlight cultural events, poetry for children, and local recipes — including “Grandmother’s Bean Soup” and a health column featuring “Ten Most Valuable Foods.”
Health & Lifestyle
Dr. Darko Desaty contributes a practical guide to healthy eating, recommending tomatoes, spinach, garlic, nuts, salmon, and blueberries as essential “disease-fighting foods.”
He warns against excessive consumption of potatoes, noting their effect on blood sugar and heart health.
Closing Reflection
Valentina ends the issue with pride and warmth:
“Our Janica has given us happiness that words cannot express. She has shown the world what it means to love one’s homeland and to fight for it with courage, faith, and grace.”
Iskra No. 102 stands as both a celebration of Croatian excellence and a touching reminder of how one young woman’s courage united a nation — and a diaspora — under the same flag.
