Biggest "Hajduk Split" Emblem Painted Ever. (So Far) / Blanka Vlasic Named AIPS World Athlete of the Year.

This is just kind of a Croatian sports fan current-events type addition. Something light, airy and neutral before the start of the new year.   'Hajduk Split' are one of the 2 most popular teams in the Croatian Soccer League, and have a rivalry that goes way back with 'Zagreb Dinamo' from Croatia's capital.  (I'm a fan of both teams, since they both have a long and rich soccer tradition in Croatia, and both cities as well). I even had an opportunity in July of '09 to visit Split for a short time, and even bought an official jersey and was lucky enough to have caught a soccer match there as well.

Anway, soccer fans from the coastal city of Split decided to paint the largest mural ever of the logo of the teams soccer club, Hajduk Split, on a building. The fans of the team are known to paint murals across the city in homage to, and to show their undying love and loyalty to the city's soccer club, Hajduk Split.

A view of the painting logo against the Split skyline. Source: www.jutarnji.hr

The massive logo of the soccer team, which has remaind unchanged since the founding of the team, this time takes up the whole front side of the building. A tower of scaffolding was needed to complete the huge painting. It took the fans 50 days to complete painting the logo, which also includes the historic Croatian "Grb" (Chequy Coat of Arms) and considering it's size, was a fairly quick undertaking. For fans of Hajduk Split like these, Hajduk are much more than just a soccer team. The team is something that personifies a part of themselves and their identity. They are almost like a religion.

 A few other examples of the Hajduk Split logo painted throughout the city. 

 Hajduk Split fans showing support at a home game in Poljud Stadium.

Some images of other Hajduk Split artwork found throughout the city of Split. (The music is the 90's hit 'Ništa Kontra Splita' by deceased Croatian pop singer Dino Dvornik)

 February 13th, 2011 will mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the club in a centuries-old pub U Fleků in Prague (then also part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire) by a group of students from Split.

Although the official crest will have "19" and "11" on opposite sides of the the central grb to signify the year of the founding of the team,  this version is to be found in many places, especially throughout Split.  There are a few legends as to the meaning of the quotation mark-like lines that are used very often.  One explains that replacing the "9" with "1", thus merges the year of founding as well as giving homage to the four Croatian students. However at their home, Poljud Stadion, the "1911" version is used on the east stand seats, throughout the building as well as on the jerseys. (But that's another topic.) Many great Croatian soccer players, especially one's that have played for the Croatian National Team started their careers with Hajduk. Including current National Team Manager, Slaven Bilić.  More about the interesting history of Hajduk Split can be read here: HERE. Or you can visit the teams official website at www.hajduk.hr

Some footage from a Hajduk soccer match at Poljud Stadium in Split.

The plaque that is found at the pub  U Fleku in Prague, this is where four students from the city of Split...... Fabijan Kaliterna, Lucijan Stella, Ivan Šakić and Vjekoslav Ivanišević founded the team.

Sources: www.dalmacijanews.com

www.tportal.hr

www.footballshirtculture.com

Blanka Vlasic Named AIPS World Athlete of the Year.

And on the topic of Split, Croatian highjumper and Split native, Blanka Vlasic, was voted by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), as the Female World Athlete of the Year in Lausanne, Switzerland. (This chicks medals and awards shelf must be getting pretty packed by now) She shares the honours with Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal who took the Men's category. Blanka was also very recently awarded Croatia's Best Female Athlete, sharing the honors with skier Ivica Kostelic taking the Mens award. Hmmm? I wonder if she's a Hajduk Split fan?

Source: en.rian.ru

Related: www.iaaf.org

www.aipsmedia.com

www.index.hr

www.vecernji.hr

winterheart-zombieboy.blogspot.com

winterheart-zombieboy.blogspot.com

winterheart-zombieboy.blogspot.com



World No. 1 tennis player Rafael Nadal of Spain and Croatia's high jump queen Blanka Vlasic have been named by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) as the best male and female athletes of the year. Nadal, the winner of three Grand Slam tournaments this year, had a narrow victory by 63 votes over Lionel Messi, an Argentinean national football team star and Barcelona forward. Nadal's compatriot Andres Iniesta, a player for the Spanish national football team, received third place in the list of the best athletes.

This year, Vlasic became the World Champion for the second time in her career as well as grabbed the title of the European Champion. She had a confident victory in the poll having left behind with over 200 votes Lindsey Vonn of the United States, who won the 2010 Vancouver Olympics gold in downhill. Belgium's tennis star and former World No. 1 Kim Klijsters received the third most number of votes for the best female athlete of the year. AIPS voting for the best athletes of the year is an annual event and involved this year 515 sports journalists from 93 countries.

Zagreb/Sljeme Ready For The 2011 Vip Snow Queen Trophy

It's that time of year again, the 2011 edition of the VIP Snow Queen Trophy. This time both the ladies and men will have races at night under the lights. The only stop on the FIS Ski World Cup tour to do so. One of the personal touches that Croatia added to the event. A combined total of 150 world class skiers from 28 countries and 4 continets will come to Croatia to vie for the title as well as a EUR 120,000 prize amount, for both the male and female winners each. The name "Snow Queen Trophy" is in honour of legendary Croatian skier Janica Kostelić. I mentioned last years event HERE. The articles below explain more in depth. You can also visit the official "VIP Snow Queen Trophy" website at: www.snowqueentrophy.com

Source: www.fisalpine.com

Related: www.zlatnimedvjed.hr

www.vecernji.hr

gol.hr

www.hrsport.net

www.net.hr

www.novilist.hr

ww.24sata.hr

www.index.hr

www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

croatia.hr



One of the biggest and most important sports events in Croatia – the Audi FIS Ski World Cup “Vip Snow Queen Trophy” – will take place on 4 and 6 January 2011. Once again, this time for the seventh consecutive time, Sljeme will become the centre of the skiing world. Moreover, for the first time ever, both ladies´ and men´s slalom races will be held at night.

Natko Zrnčić-Dim, Ana Jelušić, and Ivica Kostelić (With father Ante Kostelić)in a promotional spot for the races.

At the press conference held on Wednesday, 22nd December 2010, in the Westin Hotel Zagreb, Croatia's media representatives have been informed that Zagreb/Sljeme are ready for the 7th edition of the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Vip Snow Queen Trophy slalom races. On the "Crveni spust" Zagreb/Sljeme World Cup slalom course there are currently 60 cm of snow. And from the organizing point of view, Zagreb/Sljeme are now more ready than ever at a point of 2 weeks prior to the start of the races.















Preparation works on Sljeme reached the final stage while works at all locations, at which the Vip Snow Queen Trophy 2011 and the accompanying events will be held, are progressing according to plan and the foreseen dynamics.

Towards the end of the week, three truckloads full of protective fencing with a length of 2,300 m will arrive, which will then be installed at its planned positions. By the end of the week the interior design of tents will begin as well, after which the furniture will arrive. Commentator cabins, a big video wall and smaller video walls as well as the PA system will arrive in the week between Christmas and New Year.

So far, all portable stands, which arrived in as many as 16 trucks, have been erected, as well as all the platforms, apart from the TV tower.

Ticket sales for the seventh edition of the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Vip Snow Queen Trophy 2011 races, which will be held on 4 and 6 January 2011 atop Sljeme, began on 16 December at select Vip centres as well as Generalturist and Eventim branches.

Here is what one of the best ladies' alpine skiers of all times, Janica Kostelic, says about the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Zagreb/Sljeme slalom races: "Sljeme is a special World Cup race and my favourite, of course. I hope that all skiing fans will come once again this year and that they will create the supporter atmosphere that Sljeme is famous for. I believe that Sljeme will be packed once again and that we will create a great atmosphere, especially because both races are night races”.

Nika Fleiss with some thoughts about the "Sljeme Snow Queen Trophy" and about Janica Kostelic from last years edition.

Charity drive by Janica Kostelić for the Gornja Bistra hospital

Source: www.snowqueentrophy.com

Related: www.janica.croski.hr



The general sponsor of the Croatian national alpine ski teams and the races on Sljeme is Vipnet, which has been supporting the development of skiing in Croatia for four consecutive years now.

The Chairman of the Management Board of Vipnet Mladen Pejković expressed his satisfaction with the cooperation with the Croatian Ski Association and excitement about another Vip Snow Queen Trophy.

“For the fourth year in a row, Vipnet, as the general sponsor, has once again tried to bring the Sljeme ski spectacle as close as possible to our customers, as well as all other visitors of our city. That is why we have prepared many prize games, competitions and quizzes, fun activities and ski games, as well as meetings with our skiers, to whom I wish the best possible results atop the Zagreb hill,” Pejković said.

The cheer song "To Sam Ja" by the Ajmo Skupa Band.

Snow queen Janica Kostelić has organised a charity drive to help the Gornja Bistra special hospital for children’s chronic diseases. On Friday, 24 December, on the first floor of the Vip centre in Gajeva Street, Janica will sell autographed tickets for the spectacle on Sljeme — the Audi FIS World Cup Vip Snow Queen Trophy races. All the fans of this winter sport will be able to spend time with the ski star from 12 to 2 p.m.

Janica autographing tickets for the 2011 Sljeme VIP Snow Queen Trophy.

Within this season’s races on Sljeme, fourth in a row, Vipnet will organise a photo competition. The received photos from the Vip Snow Queen Trophy races will be posted on Vipnet’s Facebook page, where fans will have an opportunity to choose 12 best photos by liking every individual photo. A special jury comprising photographers and members of the family of Renco Kosinožić will then decide on the best among the 12 photos. The author of the winning photo will win a money prize and a special, Renco Kosinožić prize, while money prizes will also be given to the 11 authors whose photos followed the first one based on the number of votes. The 12 awarded photos from the past seasons’ Vip Snow Queen Trophy races will be presented at an exhibition that will be opened at the Europa Theatre on Tuesday, 28 December, at 11 a.m.

An aerial view of Sljeme from last years "Snow Queen Trophy".

The opening of the "Crveni Spust"(Red Run) coincides with the pre-Snow Queen Trophy festivities. Fotogallery: www.jutarnji.hr

Organizers say preparations are on time and anticipate large crowds.







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Severina: Pop Singer, Actress, Celebrity.....and Cosmetics Girl

Well, I have a few free moments before jumping into the shower (tuširati se), and decided to do something off the wall, or campy. Tounge in cheek even.  Anything to get that relentless infernal mall  and coffee shop holiday music out of my ears. .(How many ****ing versions of Jingle Bells are there anyway?) But then the lightbulb went on. This would be a perfect opportunity to explain my point of view regarding a gossip item that happened a few years ago in Croatia. I mentioned Severina on my blog previously HERE and HERE . If you are a newly arrived reader here and are unacquainted with her, then you can read more about her at: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Severina_Vuckovic

Taking the time midway through to say "Hi Mom!"(Pozdrav Mama!) to the camera that she didn't know was there was a very underappreciated and sweet thoughtful thing. 

Anyway, when the news first came out about a leaked sex video of her with Milan Lučić, a Croat businessman from neighbouring Hercegovina, it shocked quite a few people in Croatia, as well as Croatians outside of Croatia. Mainly the conservative types who think Croatia is still the way they left it in the 50's and 60's. Part of the reason is probably because he was married. But I think it's also because  the media built up this wholesome image of her over the years, and she was, and still is, in the news and gossip/fashion magazines very much as well. Probably her involvement with charities over the years has a lot to do with it too. This was supposedly scandalous for "The Croatian Sweetheart" to have done something so vulgar, so unlike her media induced innocent wholesome image portrayed.  Especially for someone who represented Croatia at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006.

At 3:06 Severina contributed to 1991's "Hrvatski Band Aid". The charity song "Moja domovina" (My Homeland) was performed as the aggression on Croatia was accelerating. (My how hairstyles and fashion choices change. )

Severina performing Moja Štikla (My High Heel) at the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest.

Severina on the cover of the Croatian edition of "Maxim" magazine.

Severina on a recent episode of "Skrivena Kamera"(Hidden Camera)

  

Severina giving an interview for Croaian RTL television.

Now, I don't see what all the fuss is/was about. For an amateur tape, it's really not bad at all. (I've seen a lot worse out there in the adult entertainment world, and I mean A LOT worse. I mean stinking awful.)  Now for what you've been waiting for. If one is so inclined, (or the moment you've been waitng for, take your pick), you can watch the video at THIS LINK.  (My current blog settings don't allow me to embed the video here)  and you can agree or disagree with my own observations that I added. You can also click onto the links for more information about who Severina is, or visit her official fanclub website at www.sevefanclub.com

Being a singer/dancer I believe helped with her technique and flexibility.

.........So here are my thoughts about the famous "Severina Sex Tape":

1) I really like the way she gets into it. The pretzel thing is tres cool. Her moans and such are good as well. She doesn't just lie there like a chicken defrosting in the sink,(piletina u sudoper), but rather is showing initiative, openess to new ideas and being experimental.  In the aviation industry this is known as streamlining. Bravo!

2) She knows WHEN to moan, oooh and aaaah. (Very important) She doesn't get verbal when the situation doesn't call for it. Sort of like when you are talking to a woman, and some stupid idiot barges up and starts bugging you for change or a cigarette. It just ruins the mood and then you lose your train of thought.  She moans at the right moments. (AKA timing) It adds to the overall ambience and excitement. Her partner then can concentrate on more  important things like performance and satisfaction instead of getting out of ryhthm and having to say constant reminders. "Moan for me baby! Tell me you love it! Say my name again!"  All that. (Very important also)

3) I'm straight, and only pay attention to her moves, but at least she picked a similarly attractive guy to compliment her. If your partner doesn't look like someone you would walk holding hands to the local department store with without a problem, then you're underacheiving. That's very important, it sets the tone for the adult movie-films suspensful and climactic scene. It doesn't really turn me on to watch a hot chick doing it with a guy who looks like the guy who picks up cigarette butts in the 7-11 parking lot.  'Nuff said.

4) Pulling out the champagne and glasses part way through? Very classy. Like something I would have done. (I maybe would have thrown in some ice cream (Sladoled) or some low fat dessert topping. Possibly also some pieces of fruit, something juicy, like a peach or plum. If you spill some, not a problem. Just incorporate it into the session. This can lead to more licking in places never licked before) Maybe bringing out some other extra goodies from the fun bag would be a good idea. Also, it gives you a breather, replenishes fluids, and can make you more relaxed too. Ready for round 2 if you will.

5) Depending on the physical condition of the partner, it shows a lot of wisdom in taking command of the situation and doing some of the more physically demanding aspects to keep things flowing. And all without coaxing. Such as like going on top, from behind, etc. Initiative is a very much admired quality. Awesome form and technique.

6) She has good technique when performing fellatio. Not afraid to perform without being asked too. Good grip, yet gentle at the same time. 2 Complimentary attributes that in the end work like a charm. Like sweet and sour chickenballs, or honey-garlic spare ribs.  Bravo again!

7) Very good hygeine practice,  neatly trimmed pubes, etc. It's really annoying when a guy goes down and needs a toothpick, or is going "ptooh...ptooh!"or sounding like he's got a cherry pit stuck in his throat for the next 15 minutes. Some women are hesitant about their guy going down on them, but believe me, once you start they don't want you to stop. You can never go wrong with a tidy and in order jewel box.

8) Lastly, good choice of location. The sound of the boat rocking and waves gets a big 2 thumbs up from me. Nothing worse than hearing traffic, yelling neighbours, garbage trucks or wino's in the alley to ruin the mood. Overall, considering it is a first attempt, I give it a 8 1/2 Grbs out of 10. Better luck next time.



*Note - Since the time this post was made, Severina has decided to foray into the make up and perfume business industry as well as continue the marketing of her 30 Greatest Hits CD compilation.. She has found a partner willing to invest in her CD promotions and potential future make up/perfume business from Serbia. Severina already has experience by assisting with the Grand Openings of several make up and ladies hair product stores in Croatia.  Severina has also decided to exchange vows with her new business partner to show that she is very serious about her make up and perfume business succeeding and becoming profitable and in extending her market presence.  It is not known if she is still seeing the Bosnian Croat businessman or other businessmen for late night or weekend important business meetings, or whether she wore white to the exchanging of the vows/perfume/make up business official contract signing.  She has hopes though, that her new perfume/make up business will result in brisk sales in Kosovo and in Црна Трава, Serbia.  Through the rumour mill, it has been reported that she has plans for a new line of Severina vaginal cream and anal lube. Her new buisness partner has reportedly been quoted in media reports as saying that there are absolutely no good perfume/make up business opportunites or entrepeneurs to be found in Serbia at all these days, and that because of the current Euro debt crisis,  Kosovo problems and news coverage of the  Serbian bull testicle cooking championships, then a Severina brand vaginal cream and anal lube may be just what the country needs to boost its ecomony and tourism image.

Many celebrity watchers however have been writing in their editorials that Severina isn't exactly a wise player in the business venture business.  She had opportunities  from Russian businessmen, who would have bought her her very own company and made her president with a desk, chair, sofa and really nice curtains in a really big office in Moscow, Paris, Rome or Munich. This way she wouldn;t  have to stand around cutting ribbons at grand openings of lipstick stores. The Serb businessman reportedly was turned down by 2010 Miss Albania Anxhela Martini, who was quoted through various sources as stating that she would "rather have a lobotomy than open some pigfarm/perfume store in Serbia", he also recieved similar replies from Miss Bulgaria 2005 through 2011, including a threat to his person, if he didn't quit buying her flowers and cheap Serbian chocolates, from 2005 Miss Bulgaria  Rosi Ivanova.  (There are rumours of business propositions to other Miss Universe contestants involving Miss's from Spain, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Poland, Croatia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Sweden, Greece, Denmark and a few others), However, the Serb businessmans constant crying and telephone calls explaining his predicament were reportedly what finally broke her to accept his buiness proposal, as well as a few truckloads of free Serbian chocolates.

Recent footage of the excitement as people prepare laying the foundations of the new "Severina Emporium", a combination of new lipstick hut and anal lube boutique/cafe just outside of Govnodubre, Serbia.

Related: www.jutarnji.hr

dnevnik.hr

www.facebook.com/severina

www.youtube.com/user/SeveFanClub

www.index.hr

ww.vecernji.hr

www.tportal.hr

www.novilist.hr

www.gloria.com.hr

www.gloria.com.hr

Bolnica Bistra, How Much They Make A Difference Is Up To You.

This is an addition I had no problem doing. To me it's got nothing to do with favoritism in religion, politics, hairstyles, shoes or tattoos, or touchy-feely. It relates perfectly with my own personal views about showing kindness to "my kin, my friends and those who deserve it." ...as for the rest.   Anyway, with it being the holidays and all, (whatever that means) I didn't feel today like adding something about supposedly religious stuff, about the latest Croatian related gadgets, toys, gifts, dildos, blow up dolls, concerts, whatever. This one is about a hospital located just outside Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. I've had a sidebar link on my blog regarding the hospital and maybe this will help in bringing more awareness to this cause.

The hospitals purpose is to help with the needs of children with genetic and neurological diseases. Most of the children are in the hospital because they're orphans or their parents don't have the resources or ability to cope with a child with neurological impairments.   They rely very much on the donations of people and volunteers to help them continue to make even the smallest difference in these childrens lives. Most are not expected to acheive adulthood because of their disease. The hospital specializes in treating children aged up to 18 years of age who suffer from effects of incurable diseases to the central nervous system and other disordes, and for many of them this is the only home they have ever known, and quite possibly ever will.

Some footage of volunteers for the hospital and other charitable causes.

Even music festivals, sporting  and other events in Croatia are helping to make a difference with proceeds going to the hospital. The children are from all parts of Croatia, and volunteers even come from surrounding coutries, not just Croatia alone. One can click onto the links for more information. More information about Bolnica Bistra is available on the attached links or at their website at: www.bolnica-bistra.hr.  If you are interested or able to donate, in one way or another, contact information is at the bottom.  Happy Holidays!

Related: www.bolnica-bistra.hr

www.hrt.hr

www.croatiantimes.com

www.fashion.hr

vijesti.gorila.hr

dnevnik.hr

www.zagrebancija.com

www.seebiz.eu

www.prima-mid.com

www.zagrebancija.com

dnevnik.hr

malaanja.blog.hr

dnevnik.hr

www.prima-mid.com

www.croportal.net

www.liderpress.hr

www.vlada.hr

www.fashion.hr

www.24sata.hr

gol.hr

dalje.com

www.nacional.hr

www.vecernji.hr

www.prima-mid.com

dalmacijanews.com

A recreational/activity room at the hospital.

Some donations given to the Hospital.

A rest/sleeping room.

Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor visiting the hospital earlier this year.









 

Behind the scenes at Bolnica Bistra.

Specijalna bolnica za kronične bolesti dječje dobi Gornja Bistra

10298 Bistra
Bolnička 21
e-mail: specijalna@bolnica-bistra.hr
Matični broj: 3224244

Žiro-račun: 2360000-1101244382 (Zagrebačka banka)

Ravnatelj Bolnice
Ivan-Željko Weiss dr. med. specijalist pedijatar
telefon: +385 (0)1 3391 111


Zamjenica ravnatelja

Zlatka Kirschenheuter dipl. iur.
telefon: +385 (0)1 3390 032
fax: 33-152-75
e-mail: zlatka@bolnica-bistra.hr


Glavna sestra bolnice

Štefica Kozlek vms.
Tel:  +385 (0)1 3390 015
e-mail: specijalna@bolnica-bistra.hr
Računovodstvo

Višnja Sever-Šeni
telefon: +385 (0)1 3390 018

Liječnici

Olga Krot dr. med. specijalist pedijatar
Mr.sc. Branka Mučić-Pucić, dr.med. specijalist pedijatar
Gordana Kokanović dr. med. specijalist fizikalne medicine i rehabilitacije
Viktorija Antolović dr. med.
telefon: +385 (0)1 3390 015

Kontakti

Bolnička 21

10 298 Bistra

tel.: +385 1 3391 111

fax.: +385 1 3315 275

web: www.bolnica-bistra.hr

Zvecevo Celebrates 1.4 Billion Chocolate Bars Sold

I thought I'd throw in this tidbit today. Nothing earth-shattering really, just a little addition about a chocolate company in Croatia that when I read this article, brought back a cool memory of when I last had this. Nothing like sitting in the backyard in Zagreb where I was staying, having just finished dinner after a day of sightseeing and shopping, then kicking back on the hammock in the shade and having a Zvecevo chocolate for dessert with a Franck kava. (And not a fucktard in sight.) I like a good chocolate once in a blue moon but I don't necessarily have a sweet tooth. Anyway, this is one of the products I wanted to try when I visited Croatia last.  It was on my long list along with many other Croatian made snacks, drinks, beers, etc, on top of the more proper meals and dishes that I was looking forward to. Sure there are places overseas one can find Zvecevo chocolates, but it's just not the same. (Maybe you have to be Croatian to understand) You can visit the company's website for more info at:: www.zvečevo.hr



Source: www.croatiantimes.com

Related: planb.tportal.hr

www.jatrgovac.com

www.index.hr

www.she.hr

www.vecernji.hr

www.pozezani.com




Croatian chocolate factory Zvecevo has sold 1.4 billion of its "Braco" and "Seka" ( "lil' bro" and "lil' sis") signature chocolate bars since the time they were first produced in 1957.

"Braco" and "Seka" are amongst Zvecevo's most well-establish brands and are the oldest chocolate brand in the region. When they first appeared on the market, the bars bore a very simple name - "Milk Chocolate" - but because of the cute label featuring a little girl, the buyers soon started calling them "lil' sis." Soon, the company adopted the name and later lil' sis got a little brother, the portal Index writes.

The executive director of the company Krunoslav Alvir said that the number of chocolates sold is a testament to the 50 years of quality and tradition.

"In addition to cultivating our recognizable brands, Zvecevo continues to follow the needs of the market and creates new tastes," said Alvir.

"The number of sold "Braco" and "Seka" chocolates is a nice beginning to a festive 2011, when we will mark our 90th anniversary," he added.

Deva Pala Na Vjernike U Crkvi, Ali Što Je Uopće Radila Tamo?

I think once in a while I'm going to maybe put something in here that would be classified under "humour", "real life" or "just interesting".  Even if it doesn't take place in Croatia or involve Croatians, but only found on a Croatian site.  I came across this today and found it hilarious and funny enough to add to this blog.  At first glance I thought someone at the Croatian news site "24 Sata" made a mistake and used a Serbian word. 'Deva" in Croatian means camel, but in Serbian can mean "Virgin/Maiden" as in Virgin Mary. See my previous post HERE to explain. I had to investigate this and find out why they may have possibly used the wrong word. So at first glance I thought a statue of the Virgin Mary fell on a person at this Baptist church in Florida.  But it was written properly all along, because it actually WAS a spooked camel that fell over on some believers during some kind of biblical re-enactment. (I forgot we were talking about Baptists here, especially during the holidays. Quite the combination) You can click on the source link to watch it in better quality.


Source: www.24sata.hr

A Camel Falls On Believers In A Church, But What Was It Even Doing There In The First Place? 

A camel was brought into this Baptist church in Florida to try to re-enact a biblical scene. (The scene where the camel walks into the church and falls on Abimelechs slave, who then fell on Hepzibah's goat, which made God angry and caused all the frogs to attack Abimelech and turned the goat into a pillar of salt)  However, the camel became nervous and disoriented and fell over onto some people in the nearby pews. Nobody was injured however. The dizzy camel survived and no fancy hats were crushed....this time.

Does PETA know about this I wonder?

Canadian Croatian Foundation for Demining Obtains Charity Status

This came out just a few days ago and I hope it really expedites removal of mines in Croatia. Children and adults have been victims of land mines since Croatia regained her freedom. Hundreds have even been killed. Also the related medical costs for survivors, including prosthetic limbs is a needless burden. The faster they can all get removed, the quicker this unpleasant legacy of the early 90's can be beat, and Croatia can move on. It just seems this problem doesn't get the exposure and attention it deserves because most of the mines are in rural, less populated areas, but mainly I think it's because it's not popular/politically correct to address this issue. 

Croatia becoming a world class tourist destination, sports accomplishments, growing awareness on the politcal, gastronomical, and more popular scenes is all fine and good, but the potential of children losing a limb, or worse, is more important. I figure the sooner resources are concentrated to rid this mine problem from Croatian soil, and have people worry free once and for all, the better.  The technology is there, the manpower is there, the willingness is there, but funds are harder to come by. Also, I think this item ties in perfectly with one of my previous posts from a few days ago, regarding the costs of being part of expensive foreign military excursions, and the danger to Croatian soldiers' lives in Afghanistan. You can read that addition HERE.

(Fotograf:: Leah Nash) In honor of a new playground in Valpovo children from Maza kindergarden sing songs about their town and wear traditional Slavonian clothing for a Playgrounds Without Mines program sponsored by the Croatian Red Cross.

Sources: newswire.ca/fr/releases

www.poten.com

www.canadianbusiness.com

Related: www.armedforces-int.com

www.hcr.hr

ww.icrc.org

www.mineaction.org

www.croatiantraveller.com

www.itf-fund.si



VANCOUVER, Dec. 9 /CNW/ - The Canadian Croatian Foundation for Demining (CCFD) is pleased to announce that it has been granted Canadian charity status and execution of a Contractor Intermediary Agreement with the International Trust Fund for Demining and Mine Victims Assistance (ITF). Charity status allows CCFD to issue tax receipts to Canadian donors, while the agreement with ITF will leverage Canadian donors' donations by matching each dollar raised with an additional dollar via the US Matching Fund Mechanism.

(Fotograf: Leah Nash) In Babin Dup dog leader Marko Kulas searches for mines using his trained german shepard Milo. Kulas works for Norwegian People's Aid (NPA) a mine action program the only non-profit demining company in Croatia. In 2007 28 commercial mine-clearance companies and the NPA work with 583 deminers 45 demining machines and 103 mine-detection dogs to perform demining in Croatia.

Even though mines are mostly a problem in rural areas in parts of Croatia, away from tourist hot spots, their removal and related medical expenses should be priority number one before diverting funds for expensive undefined foreign military expeditions for other countries' interests. Footage from Deutsche Welle.

Demining projects will be developed using the Croatian Mine Action Centre (CROMAC) database following CCFD's guidelines. These guidelines will focus demining projects at sites near schools, playgrounds and other highly frequented areas as well as land that is best suited for agricultural and other use.  Micro projects will be a priority as they will provide donors the opportunity to develop and fund entire projects.

Sara Shawesh, CCFD's President explained, "Many of us have forgotten that Croatia, Canada's NATO ally and soon to be EU member, has 800 000 people living in close proximity to suspected mine fields.  Croatia has signed and implemented the Ottawa Mine Ban Treaty and destroyed all landmine stockpiles.  CCFD's goal is to see that all landmines are removed from Croatian soil.  Obtaining charitable status in Canada will further help achieve this goal."

A sign warning of possible mines in a field in Croatia.

Individuals and corporations interested in supporting demining efforts in Croatia are encouraged to donate by visiting CCFD's website available on the following link: www.deminecroatia.org. Membership and volunteer forms are also available on the website.

ITF is a humanitarian, non-profit organization devoted to eradication of landmines from the region of South-eastern Europe and the world.  For additional information on ITF please visit the following link: www.itf-fund.si

De-mining team disposing undestroyed mines in Lipovac, Croatia. Photo courtesy United Nations/J. Isaac

CROMAC is Croatian national institution responsible for the coordination of mine action activities in Croatia and it was founded in 1998 by Croatian Government.  For additional information on CROMAC please visit the following link: www.hcr.hr/en/index.asp
 

CCFD is a Canadian charitable registered non-profit society whose objective is to remove landmines in Croatia.  For additional information on CCFD please visit the following link: www.deminecroatia.org.

The problem mine areas lie in direct correlation with Serb occupied territory from the early 90's.

Ana-Marija and Andelo Ponos help tend to their father s olive trees in the village of Vuksic. The Ponos family has owned the land for more than 100 years but has been unable to cultivate it since the war due to landmines. In 2004 NPA (Norwegien People s Aid) demined the land which is now filled with olive trees. Their father used to work at a factory in town until it was destroyed in the war now his family survives with child support from the government and from their garden. In a few years when the trees are older they hope to bottle and sell the oil. (Fotograf: Leah Nash)

For further information:

Marko Dekovic
Director - Canadian Croatian Foundation for Demining 
Tel: 1-778-918-8394
Email: Marko.Dekovic@deminecroatia.org

 Project "Watch Out, Mines!"

Source: www.itf-fund.si



Mine Risk Education Project named »Watch out, mines!« was implemented during the last two years in Croatia. Due to success of the project, excellent results and needs of Bosnia an Herzegovina, ITF decided to support the same project also in this neighbouring country which is facing similar mine problem and is lacking educational material for children.


The goal of the project is to educate the children and community about the danger of mines through printing and presenting of ‘Watch out, mines!’ picture book in order to reduce and prevent the risk of injury from mines. It is planned to print 25.000 picture books and distribute them to the first grade students and public libraries on the teritory of Bosnia and Herzegovina


The project started in November 2009 and will be finished in November 2010 (upon the no-cost extension of the project timeline due to logistical troubles in Bosnia and Herzegovina).

Croatia Continues Fight Against Somalian Pirates

Members of Croatia's Military.

Source: www.croatiantimes.com


Related:

www.croatiantimes.com

dalje.com

www.somalia-pirates.com

www.eunavfor.eu

www.morh.hr

news.xinhuanet.com

sofiaeco.com

xenophilius.wordpress.com

www.foxnews.com

www.bbc.co.uk

www.smh.com

eupolitics.einnews.com

www.cbc.ca

www.croatiantimes.com

blog.norway.com





Croatian Times


The Croatian Parliament has approved the government’s decision to extend the participation of Croatian armed forces in the European Union "EU NAVFOR Somalia-Atlanta" peace mission.

Croatian Minister of Defense Branko Vukelic has said that the participation in the mission affirms the country’s strategic goal – EU membership – as well as making a contribution to the fight against pirates in Somalian waters and ensuring uninhibited sailing.

Croatian Dubrovnik-based captain Jurica Brajcic managed to evade Somali pirates from seizing the Oceania Nautica in 2008.

The crew of the Sirius Star were from Britain, Poland, Croatia, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines. The ship was seized by Somali pirates in 2008.

The mandate of the operation includes the protection of the ships under the world food program flag, protection of merchant vessels and undertaking necessary steps – including the use of force – to deter, prevent and intervene in cases of piracy and armed robberies.

French forces from the French navy vessel "Jean de Vienne", capture 19 Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden in this January 4, 2009 photo released by the French Navy. The French navy vessel was on patrol off the Somali coast as part of a European Union anti-piracy force when it came to the rescue of a Croatian cargo vessel and a Panamanian ship crossing the Gulf of Aden.

Somalian Pirate being taken into custody.

Croatia is currently contributing two officials to the mission. On June 14, the EU Council decided to prolong the mission for another two years. Up to five Crotians will participate in 2011 and 2012, the daily Vecernji List writes.