Published: September 30, 2001
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-92.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 92 opens with one of Valentina Krčmar’s most emotional editorials to date—written in the days following the September 11 terrorist attacks. Through personal reflection, she connects the grief felt across America to the pain Croatians experienced during the Homeland War. The issue also features strong national coverage, including the tenth-anniversary reunion of Vukovar’s 204th Brigade, commentary on Croatian politics, tributes to fallen heroes, and rich community news from across Canada.
Editorial: “To Our Neighbours in Mourning”
Valentina begins with heartfelt empathy for the American people, condemning the insensitive comments she heard suggesting that the U.S. “deserved” the attacks.
“No tragedy—no matter whose—should ever bring satisfaction to another human being.”
She acknowledges her own earlier resentment toward American politicians who ignored Croatia’s suffering in the early 1990s, yet admits that witnessing the horror of 9/11 reshaped her view:
“That day, when the towers fell, I cried not only for them but for us—because pain recognizes no borders.”
She reminds readers that America ultimately helped end Croatia’s war, and calls on all communities to show compassion rather than judgment.
“If we forget how to share another’s sorrow, we forget our own humanity.”
Iskra-92
Feature Report: “The 204th Vukovar Brigade Reunited”
Marking ten years since its formation, the legendary 204th Brigade—the unit that defended Vukovar—was officially paraded for the first time. Over 1,200 survivors, families, and officials gathered to honour the fallen.
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Former commander Branimir Borković – Mladi Jastreb reminded the crowd that “the 204th was the seed from which the Croatian state grew.”
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General Martin Špegelj and Minister Ivica Panđić attended; Mile Dedaković – Jastreb was absent.
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A minute of silence and the raising of the national flag closed the ceremony.
Despite political tension and boycott calls from opposition parties, the event stood as a moving moment of unity.
“Now I know,” Borković said, “that this gathering, despite all attempts, will not divide us.”
Book Feature: “Hello Toronto – Ovdje Zagreb”
Valentina previews the release of Damir Borovčak’s new book, a collection of wartime reports and reflections. She praises it as “a necessary record for a nation that too easily forgets.”
“His words return us to the streets and homes where history was written—not by generals, but by ordinary people.”
She urges readers to support Borovčak’s publication financially, noting that Iskra has been proud to print his articles for years.
Letters and Reflections
A letter from Zlata Derossi, editor of Borovčak’s book, commends Valentina’s precise command of the Croatian language and praises Iskra’s literary quality:
“I am thrilled that Hrvatska Iskra is edited by someone with such a strong feeling for our language.”
Another letter from Ivan Krlin (Hamilton) thanks Valentina for balancing political and cultural content, encouraging more focus on folklore, traditions, and community life:
“Politics is necessary, but Iskra must remain the link between culture, faith, and everyday people.”
Health Column: “Why Some People Stay Healthier Than Others”
Dr. Mladen Seidl explores how mindset affects physical well-being, offering simple principles for a healthier life:
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Laugh often—laughter strengthens the immune system.
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Keep moving—regular activity boosts mood and endurance.
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Meditate or pray—calm thoughts promote resilience.
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Eat simply and avoid quick-fix diets.
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Stay social—friendship is medicine against loneliness.
“A cheerful heart is half of health.”
Community News
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Fund Slavonija Picnic: Held September 16 at Father Kamber Park, featuring a Mass by Fr. Kecerin dedicated to 9/11 victims. Traditional food and music filled the day.
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Cultural Events: The Croatian Zavičajno Society announces its autumn play “The Kordun Hunter” and “Mowing on the Kordun” in Oakville.
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HBZ Concert: The Toronto chapter hosts Pitomačanka Folklore Ensemble from Podravina.
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Sports: Vladimir Baotić of Hamilton appointed as Canada’s official representative to FIFA, bringing pride to Croatians worldwide.
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Education Appeal: Valentina urges parents to enroll their children in Croatian language schools, warning that class sizes are shrinking:
“Our children are forgetting the words that built our songs.”
Recipe Corner: “Dolores Pernar’s Perfect Kremšnite”
Dolores Pernar shares her acclaimed recipe for Croatia’s beloved cream pastry, calling it “the best kremšnita this side of Samobor.” Valentina adds her own endorsement, encouraging readers to keep Croatian culinary heritage alive.
Poetry and Song
A tender dialect poem, “Zagrebačke Španciracije”, by Zvonimir Špišić, captures the city’s evening charm:
“Zagreb in the mist, and me with it in my heart—it was beautiful, and it always will be.”
Closing Thoughts
Valentina concludes with humility and gratitude, admitting minor errors from the previous issue and thanking readers for their attentiveness and support. She closes with optimism before leaving for Croatia to attend Borovčak’s book launch and the 10th anniversary of the humanitarian organization OORA.
“No paper could live without its readers—and no nation without its memory.”
