Voices for Croatia

Published: April 15, 2000
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-56.pdf

About This Issue

Iskra No. 56 arrives in the Easter season, carrying with it a sense of renewal — in faith, in community spirit, and in Croatian unity at home and abroad. Editor Valentina Krčmar reflects on the flurry of parish and cultural events across Toronto, as the paper captures stories of perseverance, moral reflection, and social progress.

This issue balances joy and gravity: the optimism of Uskrs alongside calls for solidarity with Croatia’s elderly, concern for justice, and new projects bringing Croatians together under one roof.

Editorial: “An Invitation to Faith and Togetherness”

Valentina’s editorial opens with warmth and gratitude. As Lent comes to a close, she writes about the many events happening across the Croatian community — concerts, dinners, and spiritual gatherings — while reminding readers that Hrvatska Iskra can only highlight these efforts when invited.

“Every effort matters, but if it is not written about, it is less known — and every success smaller.”

She encourages organizers to include Iskra as a witness to their work, emphasizing that recognition helps sustain enthusiasm and connection within the diaspora.

Motrišta: “The Light Before Easter”

Valentina’s reflective Motrišta column offers a deeply personal meditation on optimism and faith. She begins with a simple observation — that daily frustrations often blind us to the good around us — then turns to a story of renewal: the long-awaited opening of CRO-SPORT 2000, a new Croatian community center in Streetsville.

The project, she writes, symbolizes what Croats can achieve when they trust one another.

“When Croatian hearts unite, even lead can swim.”

More than eighty investors, including Valentina’s own family, helped bring the project to life — proof that belief in collective strength can overcome doubt and cynicism. She calls it the first miracle of Easter: a reminder that faith in each other is as essential as faith in God.

She ends with a vision — perhaps the next community dream: a Croatian retirement home, where elders could live surrounded by familiar words, songs, and kindness.

“Maybe it’s too late for some, but not for many of our elders yet. So, friends from CRO-SPORT 2000 — shall we keep going?”

National and World News

Political Changes in Zagreb:
President Stjepan Mesić presents a proposal for constitutional reforms to Prime Minister Ivica Račan and Parliament Speaker Zlatko Tomčić, marking another step in reshaping Croatia’s post-Tuđman political structure.

Media and Freedom of Expression:
Journalist Maja Freundlich is dismissed from Vjesnik after decades of work, claiming political interference in the press. Her story underscores concerns about press freedom under Croatia’s new government.

Economy:
Average wages in Croatia reach 3,191 kuna in January 2000 — slightly lower than the previous month but still higher than the year before, reflecting the nation’s cautious economic stabilization.

NATO and Regional Relations:
Croatia is admitted as an observer state to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, a milestone in its path toward Western integration.

Faith and Reflection: “What Easter Means in Modern Times”

Contributor Biserka Milinković writes a heartfelt essay on the paradox of progress — how humanity’s scientific power has grown, yet its spiritual understanding lags behind.

Through a child’s innocent questions about Jesus and resurrection, she reminds readers that Easter cannot be grasped through reason alone.

“The mystery of Easter can only be understood through faith and love.”

Her reflection calls readers to pause, look beyond the noise of modern life, and rediscover humility and wonder.

Culture and Poetry

This issue features two poetic voices bridging generations:

Dr. Davorka Križaj-Kapljić’s poem “Stari kolodvori” (Old Train Stations) — a nostalgic meditation on childhood journeys and the passage of time.
Mia Bertić, age 15, contributes “A Place to Be,” a tender English-language ode to Croatia as home and belonging.

Together, they reveal how cultural identity endures — in memory, music, and language.

Health & Wellness: “The Antioxidant Revolution”

Dr. Darko Desaty provides a comprehensive guide on free radicals and antioxidants, explaining how vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene protect the body from premature aging and disease.

His advice is practical and hopeful — emphasizing exercise, balanced diet, and moderation as keys to longevity.

“It is easier to maintain good health than to regain it once lost.”

Letters to the Editor

A correction is published regarding the village name Banska Struga, mistakenly printed as “Bosanska Struga” in a previous issue — a heartfelt apology to the proud community known for its courage during the Homeland War.

Another letter offers a short prayer and reflection for Holy Week:

“God, grant me peace to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”

Community Highlights

AMCA Toronto quietly marks its 10th anniversary, honoring members who dedicated their efforts to Croatia’s independence and continued cultural life abroad.
Walk-a-thon for McMaster Children’s Hospital organized by the Croatian school in Oakville exemplifies how youth keep compassion and service alive.
Croatian Catholic Women’s Society hosts a Bake Sale on Palm Sunday, raising funds through homemade pastries — a beloved community tradition.
Drago Geoheli and Stavko Butković contribute historical reflections, including a tribute to April 10, 1941, marking Croatia’s early declaration of independence — an event remembered with solemn pride.

Closing Reflection

Valentina ends this issue on a note of gratitude — to readers, volunteers, and contributors who sustain Iskra’s mission. With Easter approaching, she invites the community to renew both their faith and their faith in one another.