Voices for Croatia

Published: December 1, 2003
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-127.pdf

About This Issue

Iskra No. 127 captures the close of 2003 — a year of political transition and personal reflection. With the Croatian parliamentary elections freshly concluded, editor Valentina Krčmar balances analysis of change at home with the warmth of the Christmas season abroad. The issue blends political commentary, diaspora news, community updates, health advice, poetry, and messages of faith, all under the theme of responsibility — civic and moral alike.

Editorial: “Time, the Greatest Gift”

Valentina opens the issue with her Christmas letter to readers, reflecting on how quickly the year has passed. She writes of loneliness during the holidays and reminds readers that the most meaningful gift one can give is time:

“The most beautiful gift you can receive from a friend is time — time for a conversation, a helping hand, or a smile.”

She celebrates HDZ’s election victory, expressing hope that new leadership will fulfill its promises and address the emigration of Croatia’s youth. Yet her tone remains measured and maternal — proud but aware of the challenges ahead.

Valentina thanks the Croatian community in Toronto for its continued engagement and invites contributions to future issues, assuring readers that Iskra remains their collective voice.

National Focus: “Croatia Votes — The People Speak”

The front pages analyze the November 23, 2003 parliamentary elections, which saw the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), led by Ivo Sanader, return to power with 65 seats.

The SDP coalition under Ivica Račan secured 43 seats.
The HNS emerged as the third strongest party with 11 seats.
The Croatian Peasants’ Party (HSS) gained 10, while the Croatian Party of Rights (HSP) took 8.
The Croatian Pensioners’ Party surprised many with 3 seats.

Sanader declared victory, promising “a new era for Croatia,” while Račan conceded, emphasizing continuity of democratic principles.

A companion column from Glas Koncila reflects on the maturity of Croatian democracy, praising peaceful elections and civic responsibility, while criticizing media manipulation and the public broadcaster HRT for creating unnecessary divisions.

Diaspora & Community

Toronto’s Croatian community bustled with winter events: parish banquets, cultural evenings, and charitable drives. Valentina and contributor Biserka Milinković highlight the Fond Slavonija’s annual “Kolinje” dinner, where members in traditional Slavonian dress welcomed guests with song and warmth.

She extends Christmas greetings to clergy, community leaders, imprisoned Croats in The Hague, and readers worldwide:

“May the message of Christmas fill our families with joy, love, and God’s blessing. May peace and unity prevail among our people, here and everywhere.”

Humanitarian Appeals

A heartfelt section lists ways readers can assist those in need:

Donations to families in Croatia through Caritas by calling 011 385 060 801 801.
Support for Croatian families in Argentina and orphans at the Home of St. Therese via Sister Kristina.
Aid to DORA, a children’s charity in Zagreb, through contact Stanko Trtnja in Mississauga.

Valentina reminds readers that “even the smallest act of kindness can begin a great journey.”

Culture & Poetry

This issue celebrates Croatian artistic and literary heritage:

Božica Jelušić’s poem “Dobrodošlica Božiću” evokes the sights and scents of a traditional Christmas home — apples in straw, cloves, and cinnamon in the air, the quiet glow of candles before midnight.
Katica Tot’s nostalgic verses “Zimska noć” and “Ne mogu va se sjetim” recall old Zagreb and the humor of aging with rhyme and affection.
Ivica Puhalo’s “Konobo moja” pays tribute to Dalmatian tavern culture and the enduring friendship found over song and wine.

Heritage & Architecture

A special feature traces the history of Zagreb’s Trg žrtava fašizma, from its 1930s origins and Ivan Meštrović’s pavilion to its changing names over decades — a reflection of Croatia’s turbulent political history and cultural resilience.

Health & Lifestyle

Medical contributions by Dr. Spomenka Tomek-Roksandić and Dr. Damir Eljuga address:

Andropause (male menopause) — symptoms, diagnosis, and lifestyle changes for men over 40.
Rising rates of ovarian cancer in Croatia, calling for early screening and awareness.
Increased cases of Type 2 diabetes among younger people, linked to modern sedentary habits.

Readers are encouraged to embrace Mediterranean diets, regular exercise, and moderation as paths to longevity and vitality.

Faith & Reflection

The issue closes with meditative verses and messages of peace. Christmas, Valentina writes, is both a mystery and a miracle — “the love of God made visible in a child born in humility.”