Published: September 15, 1999
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-42.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 42 continues Valentina Krčmar’s impassioned defense of Croatia’s integrity amid international scrutiny. This issue centers on the country’s strained relationship with the Hague Tribunal and the frustration among Croatians—both at home and abroad—over the world’s perceived double standards in judging war crimes. Alongside her signature editorial, the issue includes community news, political updates, cultural commentary, and coverage of the 36th Annual Croatian Soccer Tournament in North America.
Motrišta: “My Only Party is Croatia”
In her lead essay, Valentina Krčmar firmly declares independence from political parties, writing that she belongs “only to Croatia.” She expresses frustration with the disunity among Croatians, arguing that internal division has weakened the nation’s ability to defend itself in the international arena.
Krčmar condemns the Hague Tribunal’s treatment of Croatia and questions why Croatian defenders are prosecuted while the architects of aggression—Serbian and some Bosnian leaders—walk free. She defends Minister Mate Granić Šeparović, who resisted international pressure and stood up for national dignity, encouraging readers to support him against “blackmail and manipulation.”
“Whoever attacks Operation Storm, Operation Flash, or President Tuđman,” she writes, “attacks all of us. We defended our homes; we attacked no one.”
Her essay closes with a warning that if Croatia continues to bend under international influence, even Vukovar’s defenders could someday face trial in The Hague.
From the Editor
Valentina opens with a reflection on community engagement at a local picnic organized by Fond Slavonija. She thanks readers who approached her to discuss Iskra and clarifies how she selects articles for publication — emphasizing that diversity of thought is essential for a democratic press.
“Sometimes I agree with an author, sometimes not,” she writes, “but journalism must not wear a party color. It must remain fair and free.”
She ends on a somber note, mourning the death of Nena Herak, a beloved community member and friend of the publication, describing her as “a great Croatian woman who believed in these newspapers.”
Key Topics
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Croatia and The Hague Tribunal: A series of articles debate whether the Croatian government has done enough to cooperate with international justice while protecting national interests.
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Corruption and Accountability: Commentary criticizes HDZ’s failure to confront corruption decisively, calling for greater transparency in government institutions.
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Upcoming Elections: Reports outline changes in electoral units, including voting rights for the Croatian diaspora, as well as growing calls for nonpartisan election oversight.
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Economic Notes: The national budget shows a deficit of four billion kuna, while Croatia remains one of Europe’s safer tourist destinations despite ongoing misperceptions abroad.
Cultural and Community Life
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Tribute to Vukovar: Sculptor Đuro Ostoja discusses his monument for Vukovar, describing it as “the result of deep sorrow and eternal gratitude.”
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Croatian Film Triumphs in Montreal: A report celebrates the international success of a Croatian feature film, highlighting the nation’s growing cinematic recognition.
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Community Farewells: The issue includes heartfelt farewells to community members and priests who have served Croatian parishes in Canada.
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Petrica Kerempuh: The satirical column returns, offering humorous but biting commentary on Croatian politics and society.
Health and Science
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Seasonal Allergies: A Toronto-based doctor provides practical advice for managing ragweed-related allergies common in Southern Ontario, emphasizing prevention and proper use of antihistamines.
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Sinus Infections and Fungi: A Mayo Clinic study reveals that chronic sinus infections may be caused by fungal reactions, opening the door to new treatment approaches.
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Global Health Facts: WHO reports that one-third of the global population is infected with tuberculosis, with developing nations bearing the greatest burden.
Sports
The 36th Annual Croatian Soccer Tournament of Canada and the U.S. was hosted by Hrvat Kitchener at the Croatian Franciscan Centre in Norval. Twenty-five teams from across North America competed over two days of spirited matches.
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Champion: Hrvat Kitchener
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Runner-Up: Jadran Chicago
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Top Scorer: Mark Hale (Milwaukee Hrvat Orlovi, 4 goals)
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Best Goalkeeper: Tim Kelly (Jadran Chicago)
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Best Sportsmanship: Croatia Sault Ste. Marie
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Queen of the Tournament: Katica Kokošarević (Croatia Toronto)
The event drew large crowds and was praised for excellent organization, sportsmanship, and community spirit.
Closing Thought
Iskra No. 42 stands as both a defense and a plea — a defense of Croatia’s hard-won independence and a plea for national unity. Valentina Krčmar reminds readers that patriotism is not blind loyalty to politics but steadfast love for one’s homeland, rooted in honesty and courage.
