Published: August 15, 1998
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-16.pdf
Summary
Iskra No. 16 captures a powerful moment in Croatia’s postwar evolution — one marked by national pride, public debate, and the quiet work of rebuilding lives at home and abroad. The issue blends emotional editorials, political reflections, and stories from the Croatian-Canadian community, exploring how patriotism, morality, and justice continued to shape the young nation’s identity.
Editor’s Note: Reflections of Gratitude
Valentina Krčmar opens the issue by marking Gratitude Day, encouraging readers to take time to appreciate what Croatia has achieved since independence. She writes that gratitude is both a spiritual and civic duty, reminding the diaspora that freedom was purchased at great cost and must be protected through integrity and unity.
Her editorial also calls on Croatians abroad to support rebuilding efforts through small acts of generosity — donating to humanitarian causes, preserving the language, and passing on cultural pride to their children. “We must never let comfort replace conscience,” she writes, urging her readers to remain connected to their homeland not only through memory, but through action.
A Speech that Stirred Croatia
A major highlight of this issue is coverage of the 283rd Sinjska Alka, an annual traditional knights’ tournament held in Sinj. The ceremony drew nationwide attention when General Mirko Norac, one of Croatia’s youngest military heroes, delivered an impassioned speech as Alkar Vojvoda (tournament marshal).
Norac’s address praised the courage of the nation’s defenders but also criticized corruption and moral decline within Croatia’s leadership. His words, aimed subtly at Defense Minister Andrija Hebrang, warned that the values won in war were being endangered by greed and political hypocrisy.
“Certain individuals without moral principles,” Norac said, “seek to impose their standards of corruption on a society that was built through the blood and sacrifice of true Croats.”
His remarks sparked immediate debate. Some saw him as a patriot defending truth; others viewed his speech as too political for a ceremonial event. Hebrang responded diplomatically, praising Norac’s generation for defending Croatia and acknowledging that the greater challenge now was to build a just and honorable state.
This exchange symbolized a generational shift — from warriors who fought for independence to leaders tasked with shaping the peace that followed.
News from Toronto and Beyond
The issue continues with vibrant community coverage from Toronto, Mississauga, and Hamilton.
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Parish events fill the calendar, from picnics and summer festivals to church anniversaries and fundraisers.
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Croatian Community Services launches workshops on Canadian social benefits and employment programs for newcomers.
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The Croatian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce hosts a small business forum focused on building trade ties between Canada and Croatia.
An English-language section reports on The Canadian War Memorial in Ottawa — a feature celebrating its Croatian sculptor, Ivan Meštrović, who created the monument in the 1930s. The article connects Meštrović’s art to Croatia’s broader legacy of creativity, endurance, and contribution to global heritage.
National News and HINA Reports
HINA dispatches in this issue highlight:
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Rising tensions in Kosovo, with reports of Serbian military action and international mediation efforts.
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Domestic updates on forest fires in Dalmatia and firefighting efforts by local and international crews.
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Expanded social insurance programs in Croatia aimed at veterans and families displaced by war.
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Economic reforms and political analysis of government divisions following high-profile cabinet disagreements.
Health, Heritage, and Humor
Iskra balances politics and emotion with everyday reading. The “Health” section explores the importance of balanced nutrition and hydration during summer heat, while “Through My Eyes” offers a reflective essay on living between two worlds — Croatia and Canada.
The “Svastice” section provides homemaking tips, Croatian recipes, and household advice, while the children’s page features short stories and language games that keep younger readers connected to their roots.
A humorous column closes the issue, with playful exchanges between characters “Reza” and “Jula,” whose down-to-earth wit remains a reader favorite.
Closing Reflections
Iskra No. 16 is a portrait of a nation still defining itself. It acknowledges the tension between patriotism and politics while celebrating the power of honesty, culture, and faith. Through heartfelt writing and community pride, Valentina Krčmar and her contributors remind readers that rebuilding a homeland is not a single act, but a lifelong calling.
