Published: May 31, 1999
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-35.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 35 marks Croatia’s Statehood Day, honoring the unity, struggle, and vision that shaped the nation’s independence. The issue balances reflection and celebration: Drago Geoheli’s Motrišta explores the meaning of statehood, while Editor-in-Chief Valentina Krčmar shares an emotional message of pride, perseverance, and remembrance. Alongside these pieces, readers find political updates from Croatia, reports from Canada’s Croatian community, cultural reflections, recipes, and poetry — all woven together in a spirit of national gratitude and hope.
Motrišta: “To Our Statehood Day”
In this passionate editorial, Drago Geoheli opens by wishing all readers a joyful Statehood Day, recalling how Croats at home and abroad united to defend the dream of independence. He credits the victory not to politicians, but to the unity of all Croats who “stood on the same side” during the Homeland War.
Geoheli recounts a conversation with former Foreign Minister Zvonimir Šeparović, who once said Croatia’s rapid international recognition was “not my work, but Vukovar’s” — a tragedy that became a triumph.
Geoheli also acknowledges divisions within the Croatian community over which date best symbolizes statehood, urging understanding and patience. “Let time decide,” he writes, “for nothing human should be carved in stone except the State itself and the will of its people.”
Ultimately, he calls for a Croatia that embodies unity, dignity, and peace — “a joyful meeting place of all Croats and Croat women,” quoting Bruno Bušić.
From the Editor’s Desk
Valentina Krčmar’s message to readers is heartfelt and celebratory. She opens by wishing everyone a happy Statehood Day, thanking the Herak family, whose generosity made possible Iskra’s first full-color cover. She recalls the difficult early years when Croatians around the world worked tirelessly for freedom and says now is the time “to look at those efforts with pride and think of the future — how much stronger we are together.”
She shares breaking news: The Hague Tribunal has issued an arrest warrant for Slobodan Milošević and four top Serbian officials. Though she welcomes the decision, Valentina questions why justice came so late — “over 300,000 lives too late.” Her reflection closes with gratitude to readers and a call for continued dialogue, unity, and hope.
News from Croatia
The issue’s news section, curated by Valentina Krčmar, includes major developments of May 1999:
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President Bill Clinton’s Letter — The U.S. President congratulates Croatia on its Statehood Day, expressing confidence in Croatia’s democratic progress and partnership for peace in Southeast Europe.
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Electoral Reform Agreement — The HDZ and opposition “Six” reach consensus on new proportional election rules, creating ten voting districts and ensuring transparency in campaign financing.
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War Crimes Trials — Proceedings begin in Vukovar for 22 accused of genocide and crimes against civilians; only one defendant appears in court.
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Mass Grave Found in Berak — Remains of 29 Croats discovered, presumed victims of 1991–92 Serbian occupation.
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Croatian Ambassador Smiljan Šimac in Le Monde denounces Western “false symmetries” equating Croatia’s defensive war with Serbia’s aggression.
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U.S. Letter to Tuđman — Clinton assures continued American support, stating, “We know we can count on you.”
Community Highlights
Mississauga Croatian Folklore Festival
A vibrant feature recounts the 25th Croatian Folklore Festival in Mississauga, where thousands gathered for Mass led by Monsignor Dr. Đuro Sudar and a two-day celebration of music and dance. Performances included groups like Zrinski-Frankopan, Sljeme, and Adria, with children, parents, and parish leaders uniting in joyful expression of faith and culture.
Međimurje Banquet
The Croatian Society “Međimurje” hosted its annual dinner in Oakville, raising funds for a children’s home in Čakovec. Guests enjoyed songs, traditional jokes, and folk performances from Brampton’s group Hrvatska.
HDZ Toronto Events
The HDZ Toronto branch launched its “Croatian Unity Fridays,” featuring film screenings and community discussions. The Croatian Credit Union announced an upcoming general meeting to align its bylaws with new financial legislation.
Culture and Heritage
Cardinal Franjo Kuharić: “Life in a Free Croatia”
A reprint of the late Cardinal’s reflections celebrates faith as the foundation of national endurance, urging Croats to protect freedom through honesty and compassion.
Maja Freundlich: “Sell Me, Sell Me” and “Frame for a Portrait”
Two of Freundlich’s literary works appear side by side — symbolic explorations of exile, memory, and identity. Her writing continues to stand as a cultural bridge between Croatia and its diaspora.
Varaždin: City of Harmony and Heritage
A feature on Varaždin describes it as “a rare urban jewel” — once the capital of Croatia, now a vibrant cultural center renowned for its baroque architecture, festivals, and hospitality.
Everyday Life and Traditions
The Svaštice section revives Alojz Šenoa’s 19th-century kitchen wisdom, sharing baking techniques, natural coloring tips for pastries, and recipes like Šarlota — a Croatian take on classic charlotte cake. A folk poem, “Na Griču,” captures the timeless charm of love in Zagreb’s old streets.
Sports
Reports highlight violent clashes between Bad Blue Boys and police during a Dinamo–Hajduk match, reflecting ongoing tensions in Croatian football. The piece urges reform and greater discipline in sports culture.
Closing Thought
Iskra No. 35 is both a patriotic tribute and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with freedom. Through reflection, remembrance, and celebration, it captures a defining moment in Croatia’s journey — a young state reaffirming its unity, faith, and identity at home and abroad.
