Published: July 2002
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-108.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 108 was published just after Prime Minister Ivica Račan’s resignation and during one of the hottest Toronto summers on record. In her opening letter, Valentina Krčmar writes with her familiar blend of political insight and human warmth — reflecting on the political instability in Croatia, the exhaustion of the working class, and the compassion still present within everyday life.
Her tone balances disillusionment with affection: disappointment at Croatia’s internal divisions and inefficiencies, yet deep pride in its people and culture.
Editorial: “A Letter from Croatia”
Having just returned from a visit to Croatia, Valentina shares her unfiltered impressions of a homeland she loves deeply but finds increasingly disorganized and disillusioned.
“It seems to me that Croatia needs a good mother — someone to tidy up the house. There are too many masters and too few caretakers.”
She recalls scenes that left her unsettled:
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A courtroom in Split where defendants from the Lora prison war crimes case were met with applause.
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Border chaos caused by customs strikes that left tourists waiting for hours.
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Poor tourist management in Rovinj and Zeleni Vir, where facilities were closed or ill-prepared for the summer season.
Her tone turns wry as she describes roadwork beginning during peak travel days and hotels running short on staff.
“Croatia’s tourism is like a garden with locked gates.”
Political Commentary
Valentina takes a sharp but thoughtful look at Croatia’s leadership.
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She criticizes Račan’s interference with the courts, calling it incompatible with democracy.
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She questions the cancellation of a trade agreement with Iran at the request of the U.S., noting that France immediately stepped in to sign a similar deal.
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She revisits the issue of war donations and the HDZ Foundation, supporting Dr. Ivo Sanader’s call for full transparency and for all wartime funds to be returned to the Croatian people.
While her criticism is firm, it’s grounded in hope — an appeal for integrity rather than outrage.
Culture & Society: “Faith, Football, and Folly”
Writing about the 2002 World Cup, Valentina captures both pride and self-awareness.
“Before the match against Ecuador, the music ‘We Are the Champions’ blared across Ban Jelačić Square. But when we lost, the square was empty.”
She reminds readers that patriotism must be paired with humility.
“I believe only in effort and decency — both were missing from our players and our fans.”
National Day Reflections
Reflecting on Statehood Day (June 25), she laments the government’s lack of imagination and energy.
“If I were Prime Minister, I’d have organized fireworks, parades, and music. Instead, there was a short military band, a Mass, and speeches about corruption. That was all.”
Her words are both a critique and a plea for Croatia to rediscover joy and national pride free from politics.
Community News
The Toronto section includes:
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Reports on Račan’s resignation and the collapse of his coalition.
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Responses from Croatian diaspora societies calling for transparency in community institutions, particularly the Croatian Credit Union.
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Reader letters expressing gratitude to Valentina for her resilience and honesty after months of personal and professional challenges.
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A recap of the DORA Foundation’s 10th Annual Golf Tournament, which raised funds for children in need across Croatia.
Health & Lifestyle
Dr. Darko Desaty contributes a detailed article on food-borne illness prevention, emphasizing the importance of proper food handling and hygiene during the summer months.
Višnja Milas Matutinović shares comforting recipes for kotlovina, grenadir marš, and krpice sa zeljem, preserving the link between food, memory, and identity.
In Memoriam
A heartfelt tribute honors Drago (Charlie) Dorić (1904–2002), a cherished figure in Toronto’s Croatian community.
“We will miss his chair, his laughter, his stories. Some people pass through your life briefly; others, like Charlie Dorić, remain forever.”
Poetry and Children’s Corner
This section features poems by Zvonimir Balog and Branko Hribar, along with children’s verses celebrating nature and home. The poem “Mirna” describes the still river valleys of Istria — a quiet metaphor for peace and belonging.
Closing Message
Valentina closes with her characteristic blend of realism and hope:
“Many young Croatians are leaving, seeking hope elsewhere. Who can blame them? Yet I still believe in the goodness of our people — that one day we will find order, honesty, and compassion again.”
Her final words remind readers why Iskra endured for so long: not as a political platform, but as a voice for truth, conscience, and love of home.
