http://www.croatia.org/crown en-us http://www.croatia.org/crown N/A letters@croatia.org Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:57:16 +0000 20 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11440/1/Darko-Vodopich-CEO-of-Global-Med-Travels.html Darko's extensive background in both medicine and travel gives him a unique perspective in the medical tourism industry. His journey from guiding travelers across Europe to founding and leading GlobalMedTravels shows a seamless integration of his passions for healthcare and global exploration. With over 30 years of experience in the medical field across various regions in the USA and Europe, his deep knowledge of both patient care and international travel positions him as a key figure in making healthcare accessible worldwide. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Wed, 12 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11362/1/Anthony-F-Lucas-the-father-of-Petroleum-Engineering-entering-into-the-history-of-cooking.html Anthony F. Lucas (1856-1928), born in the city of Split, Croatia, discovered the first major gusher in 1901, in Texas, Spindletop. He is the father of Petroleum Engineering. An excellent illustration of the possibilities of this petroleum was provided at a dinner given at Port Arthur, Tex., in 1901 to the directors of a large producing and refining company. A special salad was served with some show of ceremony and, after the guests had partaken of it, the toast-master asked them for their gastronomic opinions. The verdict was favorable À" unanimously so. They then were informed that the oil used on the salad was not a ' 'Lucca oil," but a "Lucas oil". darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 23 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11361/1/MICROBLINK-a-mobile-vision-software-development-company-founded-in-Croatia-in-2012.html Microblink is a mobile vision software development company. BlinkID enables scanning of over 100 international identity documents including driving licenses, national identity cards, passports and others. PDF417 SDK or WEB API enables scanning and parsing 1D and 2D barcodes such as QR, PDF417, and others. PhotoPay SDK captures payment information from standardized and non-standard payment slips and it's often used in mobile banking apps. BlinkReceipt SDK captures raw OCR data or structured information from retail receipts. This technology grew out from experience accumulated from PhotoMath, created by Jurica Cerovec and his colleagues in Croatia's capital Zagreb. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 22 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11359/1/United-States-and-Republic-of-Croatia-sign-new-Income-Tax-Treaty.html The National Federation of Croatian Americans Cultural Foundation (NFCA) is pleased to announce that on Wednesday, December 7th at the U.S. Department of State that Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and Croatia's Minister of Finance Dr. Marko Primorac, signed a comprehensive income tax treaty between the United States and Croatia. This article was written by Mr. Steve Rukavina, USA (on the photo). ruksj@aol.com (Steve Rukavina) Wed, 14 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11353/1/Croatian---Indian-Links-monograph-marking-30-years-of-diplomatic-relations-1992-2022.html The publication Croatian-Indian Links: Thirty Chapters for Thirty Years of Diplomatic Relations (1992-€"2022) marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between and India and Croatia and highlights a legacy in which the contributions of our writers, scholars, artists, travellers, politicians are unified in one volume. Some chapters in the volume present certain important individuals and others present some themes or groups of individuals. Preparing this publication was suggested by H. E. Mr. Raj Kumar Srivastava, ambassador of India to Croatia (on the photo). darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 29 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11345/1/Peljesac-bridge-connecting-Croatia-with-EU-and-China.html The Peljesac Bridge, constructed by a Chinese consortium led by the China Road and Bridge Corporation, across the Bay of Mali Ston in the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia, connecting the country's mainland with the Peljesac Peninsula, has officially opened to traffic on Tuesday, making it easier for locals to travel. As the largest construction project of transportation infrastructure since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Croatia, the Peljesac Bridge, 2,440 meters long and 22.5 meters wide, is also a model project for China, Croatia and the EU to carry out tripartite cooperation. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 04 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11279/1/Jan-De-Jong-interview-for-the-CROWN.html Jan: "Instead of importing tomatoes from the Netherlands into Croatia, I strongly believe that we can build the required infrastructure in Croatia to turn this country into a food exporting nation again. But if we wish to compete with other countries, we need to have the best technology currently on the market. And that is exactly what we plan to build in Croatia through our company - CROP... I focus on putting everything in place to ensure we build value within our business - long term." Jan, you are a bright star on a Croatian horizone. Dobro nam do¹ao letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 12 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11269/1/MIRET-ecological-sneakers-made-with-97-natural-materials.html Hrvoje and Domagoj Boljar, from the town of Duga Resa near the city of Karlovac, Croatia: "We are industry insiders who have inherited a factory from our father in our 20s. We have manufactured sneakers for some of the most famous high-end brands in the world. We realised that the footwear industry is horrible to the environment. So we set out to use our manufacturing experience to really redesign shoes from bottom up and make them compatible with nature. Step into durable and comfy unisex sneakers and leave no toxic legacy to the next generations that will walk the Earth." darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 03 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11182/1/Vladimir-Novak-Croatians-in-America-fascinating-photomonograph-published-in-2018.html  Vladimir Novak (1928-2016) darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sun, 27 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11176/1/Kraljevski-vinogradi--Royal-Vineyards-near-Zadar-producing-some-of-the-best-Croatian-wines.html Top quality grapes from the stone vineyards and excellent taste of wines are the results of a special microclimate, its position by the sea and a full day of direct sun exposure, on average 2600 hours per year. This microclimate allows high-quality grape-growing that is extract and healthy for the production of white and red varieties. Bura acts as a fan that ventilates the grapes in the bedrock base, and at night cold air from Velebit, which descends towards the sea gives pleasure to create the most powerful extract. The director of the Royal Vineyards (Kraljevski vinogradi) is Zoran Pantalon. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11159/1/Lucija--Dusko-Rilov-and-their-Studio-Turtula-of-driftwood-paintings.html Lucija & Du¹ko Rilov live in the city of Trogir, which has been included into the UNESCO World Heritage List. They are creating beautiful life out of driftwood pieces, found on the seashore along the Croatian coast. Their inspiration are small island towns, which bring them peace and inner balance. Numerous galeries and souvenir shops possess their works of art. Their work is connecting two very different areas: ecology with artistic expression. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 24 Jun 2019 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11147/1/RIMAC-0-100-KMH-IN-19-SEC-CONFIRMED.html The Rimac C_Two is the world'€Â™s most powerful electric hypercar, demonstrating the company'€Â™s expertise in high-performance vehicle systems. Powered by a four-motor powertrain system with 1.914 hopsepower and instantly available 2300 Nm of torque, the C_Two accelerates 0-60 mph in 1.85 seconds, and reaches 300 kph in 11.8 seconds. The 120 kWh battery capacity enables 550 km of range in WLTP cycle (650 km NEDC). ). These figures have taken the world by surprise, but with new development efforts, the C_Two can, and will, see upgrades. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 11 Mar 2019 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11145/1/American-Airlines-flights-to-Dubrovnik-DBV-Airport-three-times-weekly-from-June-7-till-September-27-2018.html The new nonstop flights will take you to Dubrovnik, a top Game of Thrones filming location. Flights to Dubrovnik (DBV) Airport will run three times each week starting June 7 and ending September 27, 2018. Though travelers flock to this destination to explore its key Game of Thrones filming sites, there'€Â™s more to the city than the fictional Seven Kingdoms. Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities on the Mediteranean. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 23 Feb 2019 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11125/1/Croatian-islands-products---Hrvatski-otoeki-proizvod.html àÃÂÃÂàÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂàÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂàÃÂÃÂàà darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 26 Nov 2018 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11106/1/Nenad-Bach-posjetio-poduzece-Hedona-u-Krizevcima-koje-zaposljava-osobe-s-invaliditetom.html Nenad Bach je 24. kolovoza 2018. posjetio Kri¾evce, a cilj njegova posjeta bila je socijalno poduzeæe Hedona. I sam osoba koja se godinama bori s bole¹æu, posebno je senzibiliziran za svaki projekt koji ukljuèuje osobe ogranièenih moguænosti. Hedona, projekt zapo¹ljavanja osoba s invaliditetom sve vi¹e prerasta u uspje¹an proizvodni brand, kri¾evaèku èokoladu! Nenad Bach u ambijentu Choco bara Hedone, u zgradi Razvojnog centra i tehnolo¹kog parka, razgovarao je s Goranom Borèiæem, direktorom Hedone i Petrom Gatariæem, predsjednikom Udruge osoba s invaliditetom Kri¾evci. darko.zubrinic@gmail.com (Darko ®ubriniæ) Sun, 26 Aug 2018 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11013/1/Mara-Vitols-Hrgetic-program-director-of-the-MEETING-G2-3-project-in-Zagreb-6-8-Nov-2017.html The MEETING G2.3 Conference will be organized in two parts: 6-7th November in Zagreb, and on the 8th November in the city of Osijek. The Keynote Speaker on the 7th Nov will be The Honourable Zed ©e¹elja, Senator for The Australian Capital Territory. Former women's top ranked world tennis player and French Open Champion, Iva Majoli and Croatian coaching legend, Miroslav Æiro Bla¾eviæ, will be sharing their knowledge. The participants will visit the city of Osijek on 8th November, in particular, the Osijek Software City. On the photo Mara Vitols-Hrgetiæ, program director of the Meeting. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 27 Oct 2017 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/11022/1/Vjeko-Martinko-director-of-Hotel-Villa-Astra-in-Lovran-celebrating-his-70th-birthday-in-October-2017.html Vjeko Martinko, director of the Hotel Villa Astra in the town of Lovran, Croatia, celebrated his 70th birthday with his friends and colleagues, including his schoolteacher Ana Ujeviæ. As always, Vjeko is full of energy, fresh ideas and challenges for the future. The celebration was held in a peaceful and very pleasant environment of the hotel and the surrounding beautiful park, filling us with a special energy and enthusiasm. Hotel Villa Astra is one of the trademarks of Croatian private entrepreneurship, offering its guests a unique place for creative rest in a friendly atmosphere, where one feels like at home. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 16 Oct 2017 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10940/1/SurfnFries-Croatian-franchise-products-in-Moscow-announcing-at-least-100-outlets-in-Russia.html The most successful franchise from Croatia, that was launched in 2009 by Andrija Èolak (on the photo) and Denis Poliæ from the city of Rijeka, is now set to expand its business into Dubai, China, Russia, the United States etc. Their master franchisor has big expectations and announces at least 100 Surf'n'Fries outlets in Russia. This Croatian franchise is now ready to conquer some of the biggest world markets. Хотите попробовать картофель фри от Surf'n'Fries? Приезжайте в Шереметьево, а потом как можно быстрее в Хорватию. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 29 Dec 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10926/1/Mara-Vitols-Hrgetic-of-Venezuela-and-Don-Markusic-of-Australia-describing-their-bussiness-work-in-Croatia.html Mara Vitols Hrgetiæ of Venezuela (on the photo, of Latvian parents) and Don Marku¹iæ from Australia, were guests of Marijan O¾aniæ in his monthly interview dedicated to entrepreneurship in Croatia. An example of Mara Vitols Hrgetiæ is quite interesting since she is a Lathuian born in Venezuela, married to a Croatian (also born in Venezuela) Josip Hrgetiæ, who started the FORUM Centre in Zagreb, aiming, among others, to economically connect Croatians from diaspora to the country of origin of their predecessors. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Wed, 30 Nov 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10909/1/FORUM-G2-2-synergy-initiative-between-Croatian-diaspora-and-homeland.html Josip Hrgetiæ and his wife Mara Vitols are the founders of the FORM Centre in Zagreb, which organized an important  very successful G2-2 Meeting between Croatian diaspora and homeland in October 2016. Among distinguished guests were Mark Begich, representative of Alaska at the US Senat, Ivan Hrvoiæ, Croatian scientist and enterpreneur in Canada, and many other. The Meeting discussed various possibilities of improving economic cooperation between Croatian enterpreneurs throughout the world with similar organizations and institutions in Croatia. On the photo senator Mark Begich with Josip and Mara Vitols Hrgetiæ, during the G2-2 Meeting in Zagreb. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 15 Oct 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10907/1/Robert-Schenk-founder-and-director-of-the-Accord-Case-company-in-the-city-of-Pula-in-Croatia.html     darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Wed, 05 Oct 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10883/1/MEETING-G22-10-12-October-2016-in-Zagreb--invitation-to-Croatia-and-its-diaspora-for-new-business-opportunities.html   The aim is to connect Croatians abroad with people and business opportunities in Croatia via practical online and offline knowledge-sharing, matchmaking and networking forums. The vision is to secure a future where possibilities, opportunities and dreams of doing business with or in the homeland will drive a new era of Croatian economic development, growth and productivity. On the photo Josip Hrgetiæ, director of the Forum Center in Zagreb and Project director of G2.2 conference to be held at the Forum Centre in Zagreb from 10th to 12th October 2016. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 11 Aug 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10871/1/Air-Pannonia-Croatian-aircraft-company-directed-by-Miroslav-and-Jasna-Vlasic.html   The Air Pannonia company is a result of the long-standing experience in aviation. The Osijek airport LDOS in Croatia is the base airport for training. The Vla¹iæ family has spent their entire lives in aviation industry, and they founded their first company, Air Tractor d.o.o. in 1993. They own the EASA ATO certificate. Aside from ATO, they also have certificate for the pilots’ English language proficiency, and also a valid flight simulator certificate. It is less known that the same company is also a successful aircraft maintenance company, as well as a CAMO organization. Airplane maintenance is performed throughout the entire territory of neighboring countries, EU and Turkey, where the company managed part of maintenance for general aviation. Air-Pannonia is directed by Miroslav and Jasna Vla¹iæ; Zrinka, their daughter, is on the photo. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 22 Jul 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10867/1/Ivan-Mrvos-of-Croatia-designed-the-best-smart-street-bench-in-the-world.html Steora is the world's best street bench, and its designer is Ivan Mrvos from the town of Solin, Croatia. It provides phone charging and internet to users and beautifies the street. All powered by green solar energy. Steora is more than a bench. Steora is the future of cities. The benches are equipped with an independently developed wireless device charger and two smart USB connectors, providing fast charging for mobile devices whilst ensuring battery protection. Internet access is constantly available within a four-meter diameter of the bench, delivered by a superfast 4G mobile router. The product is exported to Australia, and the product is tested in the USA, Switzerland, etc. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 16 Jul 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10848/1/FRODDO-international-Croatian-shoemaker-superbrand-for-toddlers-and-preschoolers.html Best friends since childhood, Iva and Doris started Zagy Shoe Shop (Zagy being derived from the name of Zagreb) with the mission of offering Canadian toddlers and preschoolers the highest quality shoe for the development of healthy and happy feet. The two got together with the manufacturer in Croatia who has been producing quality kids shoes for the last 70 years. The first order arrived to Canada in March 2015. The related Ivanèica company was established as a small business made up of a group of shoemakers. Through mutual assistance, updating our knowledge and hard work, they have become a company with over one thousand employees – today a leading footwear manufacturer in Croatia. On the photo Nada Zver, director of Ivanèica, which produces 5000 pairs of shoes for children daily, or more than a million pairs of shoes per year. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 04 Jun 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10840/1/Andrija-Colak--Denis-Polic-founded-SurfnFries-franchise-in-Rijeka-Croatia-awarded-in-Las-Vegas.html Andrija Èolak and Denis Poliæ, two young Croatians from the city of Rijeka, founded Surfnfries franchise company in their native city in 2010. Since then, in only six years, their franchise network has grown to 40 franchise companies. Their attached companies are blossoming not only in Croatia, but also in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Turkey, Iran, Vietnam, Thailand, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, etc. On February 15th 2015 in Las Vegas Andrija Èolak received an award given out by the International Franchise Association for Next Generation Franchising. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Tue, 17 May 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10835/1/MEETING-G22-Conference-in-Zagreb-10-12-October-2016-aiming-at-revitalisation-of-Croatian-economy.html It is very important that Croats living outside the Republic of Croatia be connected with each other, not only with the Croats in the homeland. We wish to strenghten our impact on the Office for Croats outside Republic of Croatia and on Matica Iseljenika around the world, and to connect more strongly with the emmigration Congress and Croatian World Congress, in order to achieve synergy through the cultural, ethnological and business cooperation. On the photo Mara Vitols Hrgetiæ, Program Director of the meeting. MEETING G2.2 Conference is organized at the Forum Center in Zagreb 10-12 October 2016 darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 30 Apr 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10818/1/Branka-Cubelic-and-her-Dreamtime-Events-Croatia.html Branka Èubeliæ is CEO of Dreamtime Events Croatia, which is an international  team of professional creative event planners. Their diverse staff, having lived and worked in Australia, Canada, and Croatia, has over 30 years of experience in creating stylish, memorable, and of course, fun weddings and events. First class event planning experience from their native countries coupled with all of the amazing possibilities that Croatia has to offer. The Dreamtime is the Aboriginal understanding of the world, of it’s creation, and it’s great stories. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 18 Mar 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10809/1/Mate-Rimac-lecturing-at-the-Stanford-University-about-the-Electric-Car-Industry-start-up-in-Croatia.html In January 11 2016, Mate Rimac had the honor to deliver a lecture about his Electric Car Startup in Croatia upon the invitation from the prestigious Stanford University, USA. The technological novelties of this company in Croatia, which now has about 150 employees (out of which only 5 foreigners), have raised enormous interest among global leaders in the field. The novelties are expected to have a big impact on the global production of cars and other vehicles in decades to come. Numerous excursions, professional and educational, are organized to the Rimac automobili co. near Croatia's capital Zagreb, including from Israel. Some of the principal investors come from China. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 19 Feb 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10808/1/Petition-for-direct-flights-between-Croatia--USA.html Dubrovnik, Zagreb, New York and Split are world's most vibrant and entrepreneurial cities but DO NOT have an overseas direct non stop flights which could connect our cities in just over 8 hours. Through our petition we can show the Airlines there's strong demand for a direct New York - Dubrovnik - Zagreb flight, providing essential market research on how profitable the route could be. Croatia is on many charts the most desirable destination for tourists. It offers great business opportunities... Instead of traveling for 20 + hours, why not do it in 7-9 hours? letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 17 Feb 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10806/1/Mate-Rimac-How-We-Build-The-Worlds-Fastest-Electric-Car-.html Focused on high-performance that comes from a unique fusion of light build, and pure, seamless power, Rimac Automobili was driven from the world we were, passionate petrolheads, into the world of electric propulsion that we are today. Rimac Automobili is a family of enthusiasts, engineers and designers on their quest to discover new ways of making cars faster, and to prove to the World that fun can be electric - far more than anyone ever imagined. Located in Croatia, near Zagreb, the Rimac factory is a place where magic has happened since 2009. When you love what you do, you don't work, you play and thus create art.  darko.zubrinic@gmail.com (Darko ®ubriniæ) Tue, 16 Feb 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10805/1/Monaco-Police-testing-Croatian-Bikes--Greyp-Bikes-breakthrough-to-institutional-markets-worldwide.html Greyp Bikes is a sister company of the better known Rimac Automobili in Croatia. With its electric bicycle G12S the company Greyp Bikes has recently gained attention from a significant number of institutional buyers from around the world.  Among several interested parties coming from various continents, Police Department of Monaco stands out as the institution which has for some time been extensively testing the everyday usage of Greyp Bikes. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Tue, 16 Feb 2016 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10764/1/Croatian-emigrants-are-a-great-potential-for-growth-and-development-of-the-Croatian-economy.html President of the Republic of Croatia Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic has officially opened a business conference Meeting G2.1 and expressed her support to the work of the conference as an important step in connecting Croatia and Croatian Diaspora. The event has been organized by the FORUM center in Zagreb, directed by Mara and Josip Hrgetiæ on the photo. Mr. Hrgetiæ was born in Caracas as a second generation of Croatians living in  Venezuela, while his wife Mara Vitols Hrgetiæ, also from Venezuela, has Latvian roots. They both now live in Croatia's capital Zagreb. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sun, 22 Nov 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10761/1/The-Story-of-Ilija-Letica-by-distinguished-Croatian-filmmaker-Jakov-Sedlar-.html We present the readers of the CROWN a fascinating documentary by Croatian filmmaker Jakov Sedlar about the life and work of Ilija Letica in the USA, about his very successful LETICA CORPORATION in the USA, with a special emphasis on his ties with Croatia and on his life philosophy. LETICA is a multi-faceted packaging company with diverse talent and technologies to support business on a number of fronts. The company works in multiple technologies such as thermoform, injection mold, paper-forming and sheet extrusion as well as with multiple mediums including paper, rigid and thinwall plastic, reclaimed post-consumer fiber, and other environmentally-friendly materials. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 14 Nov 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10730/1/Marijan-Busic-The-Cravat-Day-to-be-marked-on-October-18th-each-year-throughout-the-world.html   Academia Cravatica, a non-profit institution dedicated to the phenomen and culture of Croatian necktie, the cravat, aims to promote the cravat as a part of Croatian, European and also world heritage. This year, Academia Cravatica decided to pay special attention to international celebration of the Cravat Day, and is now in the process of inviting numerous Croats and their ancestors living abroad to join together on October 18th, put on their Croatian cravat with pride and, joining with others, remember the values it represents. The founder and director of Academia Cravatica is Mr. Marijan Bu¹iæ, successful and very creative Croatian entrepreneur in the city of Zagreb. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 21 Aug 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10729/1/Mate-Rimac-and-his-fastests-electric-car-in-the-world-in-Wall-Street-International-by-Zdravko-Basaric.html Zdravko Basariæ wrote a nice article for the Wall Street Journal about Mate Rimac on the photo, his car factory near Zagreb, and about his team of young experts (average age of employees is less than 30 years), who make top quality bicycles, boats and super sport cars. Concept One car has a brutal power of 1088 HP and the torque 1600 Nm, from 0 – 6500 rpm (this applies only for cars with electric engine!), acceleration 0-100 km/h (62mph) in only 2,8 seconds! This is a real 4WD car because every wheel has own electro engine and computer control with high precise sensors which manage this vehicle by precisely defined power. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 20 Aug 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10720/1/Josipa-Majic-from-Croatias-capital-Zagreb-is--founder--CEO-of-Teddy-the-Guardian-global-enterprise-.html Josipa Majic is the founder and CEO of Teddy the Guardian, Zagreb, Croatia, the first smart teddy bear on the market. During play, the teddy bear seamlessly captures the child's heart rate, saturation of blood with oxygen and body temperature, and wirelessly sends the data on a mobile app. This creates a truly child friendly experience for hospitals and home care. With specialization in medical technology, Majic's work places a special emphasis on a more human approach to patients and users. She has previous experience in delivering medical applications and wearable technology solutions. On the photo Josipa Majic and Ana Burica, Zagreb, authors of the idea of Teddy the Guardian. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sun, 26 Jul 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10708/1/Mireo-co-from-a-small-village-of-Banjole-in-Croatia-outbid-Google-in-Dubai-with-their-navigational-tool.html Ivica Siladiæ, PhD in Math, is a founder of Mireo company in Croatia, in a beutiful village of Banjole on Croatia coast. Mireo's Genius Maps is a free application that installs on your mobile device. It's an offline route planning, exploration and navigation app that does not require a mobile internet connection to search and navigate. There are no roaming costs and your battery lasts longer. In 2014 Mireo's navigational program has been chosen to be used in Dubai. It is amazing that a small Croatian team of 25 employed experts outperformed Google. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 06 Jul 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10657/1/Robert-Benmosche-1944-2015-CEO-of-AIG-found-paradise-in-Croatia.html Robert Benmosche: I was in Dubrovnik in Croatia back in 1997 and found it was a beautiful place. I said to myself, "Bob, what do you want to do when you retire?" I had read an article that said Zinfandel may have come from Croatia. And so I said that is an interesting idea.  In 2006, I was able to get two pieces of land. One in Dingac where my vineyard manager's property is, and another in Viganj, about 12 acres, right on the sea. I chose it because it had these yellow flowers called broom. They say where the flowers grow is great for growing grapes. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 14 Mar 2015 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10633/1/Forum-Center-in-Zagreb-connecting-Croatia-Venezuela-and-Latvia-via-Croatian-Glagolitic-Script.html The aim of Congress Centre FORUM Zagreb is to satisfy the needs of their customers by providing dedicated and customized quality services, as well as prompt and efficient solutions at any time. It is directed by Josip Hrgetiæ, a Croatian born in Venezuela, and by his wife Mara Vitols Hrgetiæ, of Latvian origin. The Centre organizes seminars, workshops, courses, market research, launching of new products, video conferences, press conferences and other  business and social meetings. Their charming halls are docorated with Croatian Glagolitic Script, and moreover, the halls are named after Croatian Glagolitic characters. darko.zubrinic@gmail.com (Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 01 Dec 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10626/1/PhotoMath-smart-camera-calculator-and-PhotoPay-created-by-Jurica-Cerovec-and-his-colleagues-in-Croatia.html It's really stunning: the PhotoMath video on Vimeo has very quickly reached 2 million views. Their web page has over 9000 page views each minute, and the iOS app alone was downloaded more than 1.6M times in less than three days in the Automn 2014, becoming the top free app in most countries around the world. It has been created by Jurica Cerovec and his colleagues at MicroBLINK in Croatia. Their products have recently been shown with great success in London, and they have created enormous interest throughout the world. They open completely new perspectives in education and other areas. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Mon, 10 Nov 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10621/1/Darko-Sertics-Applied-Ceramics-company-in-California-Croatia-Taiwan-Japan-and-Israel.html Darko "Matt" Sertic is a well respected entrepreneur who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Applied Ceramics headquartered in Fremont, California. Applied Ceramics, Inc., is a worldwide leading fabricator and supplier of custom-made ceramics, quartz, silicon and sapphire components for the semiconductor processing equipment industry. The company has facilities in California, Croatia, Taiwan, Japan and Israel. He also founded the culinary academy in Sisak, Croatia, called Kul In. darko.zubrinic@gmail.com (Darko ®ubriniæ) Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10571/1/Nikola-Tesla-Electric-Vehicles-Rally-Croatia-2014-directed-by-Igor-Kolovrat.html Nikola Tesla Electric Vehicles Rally Croatia 2014 was the first international electric vehicle rally in Croatia. It was held from May 27 till May 31 2014, covering approximately 150 -200 km per day and accompanied by entertainment programs. Croatian engineers have designed and produced a considerable number of electric car models (for example, Rimac, Dok-ing) which were be showcased during the event. The director of the EV Rally in Croatia is Igor Kolovrat. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Tue, 10 Jun 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10562/1/Ivan-Hrvoic-Croatian-scientist-inventor-entrepreneur-and-benefactor-in-Canada.html Ivan Hrvoiæ completed his studies in Electrical Engineering at the University of Zagreb, and earned his PhD in the field of Experimental Physics from the same university. In 1972 he immigrated to Canada, where in 1982 he founded Geo Systems, Inc., which is today the leading producer of magnetometers in the world, exporting its product to numerous countries, including Israel. In the late 1980's he participated in founding the Alumni Society of former students of Croatian Universities (AMCA Toronto), and from 1990-1995 was the president of this organization. His humanitarian and media activities in Canada were extremely important during the 1990-1995 aggression on Croatia. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Fri, 16 May 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10545/1/Ignacio-Frezik-Croatian-that-flooded-Colombia-and-half-of-the-world-with-his-strawberries.html For half a century, The Frezik-Rozman Family is reputed to sell the most delicious strawberries in EL FRESAL (The Strawberry Place) located at Saucio neighborhood, Choconta Municipality of Colombia. Ignacio Frezik came to Colombia in 1954 as a refugee from World War II after escaping from four concentration camps. With his wife Elizabeth Rozman (on the photo) and their children also from Croatia, he began less than zero: Bricklayer, domestic service, foreman, farmer, cook and micro-entrepreneur. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 12 Apr 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10541/1/Quietest-road-race-ever-Croatia-hosts-electric-vehicle-rally-in-May-2014.html Nikola Tesla would be proud. In May, Croatia will host its first electric car rally that winds from the northern coast to the capital Zagreb through some of the country's most scenic spots. The route includes a visit to electricity pioneer Tesla's hometown too. Over five days, electric car and motorcycle drivers will pass through three national parks - Paklenica, Plitvice Lakes and Krka - as well as resort towns like Opatija and Rovinj. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Tue, 25 Mar 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10522/1/Development-and-production-of-electric-vehicles-in-Croatia.html The development and production of vehicles in Croatia started in 1951 by a tram prototype. This was followed by several key mile-stones: trolley bus, diode type locomotive, thyristor type locomotive, thyristorisation of diode type locomotives, chopper trams, transistor tram, all the way to the transistor electric multiple unit (EMU) in 2009. The development and production of electrical equipment for submarines started in 1970 by developing and producing the main and auxiliary propulsion for a large submarine. This was followed by the development and production of the auxiliary and main propulsion for a small submarine. Written by Professor Zvonko Benèiæ, University of Zagreb. zvonko.bencic@fer.hr (Prof.Dr. Zvonko Benèiæ) Tue, 18 Feb 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10510/1/Marin-Soljacic-Croatian-physicist-and-inventor-founder-of-WiTricity-Corp-announces-quotGOODBY-WIRESquot.html The story starts one late night a few years ago, with professor Marin Soljaèiæ, standing in his pajamas, staring at his cell-phone on the kitchen counter. “It was probably the sixth time that month that I was awakened by my cell-phone beeping to let me know that I had forgotten to charge it. It occurred to me that it would be so great if the thing took care of its own charging.” To make this possible, one would have to have a way to transmit power wirelessly, so Soljaèiæ started thinking which physical phenomena could help make this wish a reality. In October 2013 Intel was involved in a $25 million Series E funding round for WiTricity, founded by Marin Soljaèiæ. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Sun, 26 Jan 2014 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10476/1/IN2---the-largest-Croatian-IT-company-founded-by-Ante-Mandic.html Mr. Ante Mandiæ and his IN2 Group’s IT solutions have received worldwide acknowledgments, and their software solutions have won the highest recognitions. In London, March 13 2013, IN2 Group won a prestigious annual European IT & Software Excellence Award for its software products in the category Government Solution of the Year. In Houston, Texas, in July 2013, IN2 Group won the world Microsoft Partner of the Year Award in the category of Public Sector Partner of the Year – Public Safety/National Security, which Microsoft Corp. grants every year in various categories. m.ozanic@raza-tpz.hr (Marijan O¾aniæ) Wed, 30 Oct 2013 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10366/1/Goran-Oreskovic-founder-and-owner-of-VESKI-Ltd-Croatian-export-and-knowledge-based-company.html Mr Goran Ore¹koviæ is a mechanical engineer and a mathematician, an entrepreneur and our greatest expert in machine vibrations. He is the founder and owner of VESKI Ltd. (www.veski.hr), and a man who has spent his whole career in developing the most complex products in the field of high technologies. The fact that VESKI Ltd. exports its products even to Australia is one the greatest confirmations of its success. In addition, its products have been awarded with numerous international and Croatian prizes for innovations and scientific contributions. m.ozanic@raza-tpz.hr (Marijan O¾aniæ) Tue, 05 Feb 2013 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10358/1/Mate-Rimac-young-Croatian-inventor-created-the-fastest-electric-car-in-the-world.html Mate Rimac, young Croatian inventor, created the fastest electric car in the world rushing faster than 300 km/h. The U.S. TV Bloomberg ranked him in its list of "Best of 2012". The car has four electric motors with a total of 1088 horsepower. The Rimac Concept One utilizes a 92-kWh battery to power four sets of electric motors (one for each wheel). Each motor operates independently, accelerating and decelerating hundreds of times per second in what the brand calls “All-Wheel Torque Vectoring”. darko@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach and Darko ®ubriniæ) Wed, 02 Jan 2013 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10335/1/Zvonko-Viduka-Croatian-enterpreneur-selling-high-tech-products-in-35-countries-worldwide.html Since 2002 ALTPRO Ltd., founded and directed by Mr. Zvonko Viduka, has been included in the Railway Gazette – Railway Directory. Since June 2004 ALTPRO Ltd. has become a full member of UNIFE – The Association of the European Rail Industry, as the only non-EU firm admitted in the association. ALTPRO Ltd. is the only Croatian firm that has become a full member of an EU economic association. It is also a member of two working groups in Brussels and has been granted the CENELEC certificate. m.ozanic@raza-tpz.hr (M.Sc. Marijan O¾aniæ) Sat, 27 Oct 2012 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10331/1/Victor-and-Vlado-Krizek-sucsessfully-direct-Croatian-jewelry-company-Zlatarna-Krizek-.html In the production of gold and silver jewelry, Zlatarna Kri¾ek is using modern machinery such as computer engraving machines and modern machines for casting, etc. However, aware that there is no machine that can compensate for artistic creativity, Zlatarna Kri¾ek employs more young, talented designers and this is the assurance that the design and hand-made jewelry Zlatarna Kri¾ek will continue to attract with their beauty and originality. On the photo brothers Victor and Vlado Kri¾ek. darko.zubrinic@gmail.com (Darko ®ubriniæ) Sat, 13 Oct 2012 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10282/1/Zagreb-Technopolis---Silicon-Valley-on-the-Sava-River-in-Croatia.html Zagreb Technopolis, or the Silicon Valley on the Sava River, is a large science and technology park of 236 000 m2 envisaged on the site of the never completed hospital. That would be the place of the future science and technology park for high-tech firms, an entrepreneurial zone for large productive enterprises, business schools and various accompanying facilities like multimedia halls, conference rooms, laboratories, banks, restaurants, kindergarten. Zagreb Technopolis won’t be just some large office area for accommodation of various big and small firms. It will be the place where entrepreneurs, companies and products for export will be developed, and new jobs opened. m.ozanic@raza-tpz.hr (M.Sc. Marijan O¾aniæ) Mon, 25 Jun 2012 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10276/1/Sasa-Casic-young-Croatian-winemaking-prodigy-of-Pakrac-and-his-teacher-Ivan-Enjingi.html Sa¹a Æasiæ is 28 year old professional wine maker from the town of Pakrac on Croatian north. He has been awarded as the most successful young entrepreneur in 2012 by the Ministry of Enterpreneurship and Crafts of the Republic of Croatia. This is a result of ten years of hard work and advices of his older colleague, another distinguished Croatian wine-maker Mr. Ivan Enjingi. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Thu, 07 Jun 2012 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10212/1/BusyBasket8482-designed-by-Diana-Peekaj-Vukoviae.html Diana Peèkaj Vukoviæ is a professional journalist, art historian, Germanist, book  and screenplay writer, award-winning innovator and the owner of the Jupiteriana, company for inventing of new products. BusyBasket™ is an innovative basket for carrying a laptop or briefcase on a bicycle. It was awarded a gold medal at the British Invention Show 2009 in London. Looking for business partner to manufacture and license the product worldwide. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 26 Dec 2011 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10206/1/MeL-Lovric-meat-industry-company-in-Croatia.html The Lovric family started its traditional manufacture stemming from the cottage industry in the 1980s. Each MeL's product has been created by working hard, step by step. The company distributes products in its own chain of stores, but it also supplies hotels, cruise ships, restaurants, etc. MeL products are proud holders of the titles "Croatian Quality" and "Croatian Creation". Jakov Lovriæ on the photo. ilija.veselica@gmail.com (Ilija Veselica) Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10163/1/Brodosplit-shipbuilding-company-in-the-city-of-Split-Croatia.html Brodosplit shipyard is located in Split, the regional center of the eastern Adriatic coast and the second largest city in Croatia. At this point Brodosplit grows into the largest Croatian shipyard, today covering an area of 560 000 square meters. Brodosplit’s wider expansion within the demanding international market started in the second half of the past century. Brodosplit's production program is wide and varied. Basic and most important products of the company are, of course, ships: commercial, passenger, container, ships for the transport of liquid and bulk cargo, dredgers... and other special types of ships, mostly built for international clients. ilija.veselica@gmail.com (Ilija Veselica) Sun, 18 Sep 2011 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10169/1/The-fastest-electric-car-in-the-world-comes-from-Croatia.html When the sheet is lifted from the Rimac Automobili Concept One electric hypercar on September 13th at the Frankfurt Motor Show – Hall 4.0, Stand A43 at 3:00 pm, in case you plan on attending – we hope the Croatian company has some heated neck pads on hand. There may be a few cases of whiplash that need treating. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Sun, 11 Sep 2011 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10084/1/DOK-ING-remote-controlled-fire-fighting-system-developed-in-Croatia.html Mr. Vjekoslav Majetiæ is the founder and director of a very successful DOK-ING company in Zagreb, specialized in sophisticated robot controlled systems for demining, fire fighting, and electric cars. Recently the Russian Federation has ordered 14 fire fighting systems. The electric cars raised considerable international interest. The company has about 200 employed, mostly young creative engineers. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10073/1/Kava-Cafe-in-New-York-City-gets-rave-reviews.html John Saric (left), the owner of Kava Cafe was so impressed with Stumptown Coffee Roasters that he was moved to open a coffee bar within walking distance of his home in New York City. "Kava" is the Croatian word for "coffee." The name is a tribute to Saric's parents, who are from Croatia. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Mon, 14 Feb 2011 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10042/1/Ivan-Gligoras-Pag-Cheese-awarded-with-the-Superior-Taste-mark-in-Brussels-2010.html The famous Pag cheese produced in the cheese plant Sirena – Mala sirana in Kolan at Island Pag owned by Ivan Gligora, has recently been awarded two golden stars and the right to label this cheese with the Superior Taste mark at the international Superior Taste event in Brussels. This is the greatest award so far for this cheese that has thus been included in the circle of seventy top food products in the world. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Thu, 02 Dec 2010 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/10016/1/Eight-perfect-days-for-Croatians-in-Perth-Australia.html The Consulate of the Republic of Croatia and the Croatian Community of Western Australia are coordinating the participation of Croatia at this year’s fair Perth Royal Show. The goal is to showcase Croatia’s tourism and commerce as well as the trade and commerce of the Croatian community. The Elie Eaton pavilion the size of 1000 m2 was assigned to Croatia by the organizers. Hrvoje Petru¹iæ, the consul general of the Republic of Croatia in Perth, wrote the article. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Fri, 03 Sep 2010 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9974/1/Sensational-Croatian-electric-car-launched-at-the-Geneva-Motor-Show-2010.html Dok-Ing is the Croatian producer of high-tech robots, primarily for the US military. It has recently launched an attractive electric mini-car with vertical-opening doors. It can achieve 130km/h, acceleration of 0-100km/h in 7.7s. After 8 hours connected to a 220V network it gets a full charge of its lithium-phosphate, and can travel up to 250km without having to plug it. Director Vjekoslav Majetiæ on the photo and design by Igor Juriæ. darko_zubrinic@yahoo.com (Prof.Dr. Darko Zubrinic) Sat, 29 May 2010 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9951/1/New-app-brings-Croatian-Easter-tradition-to-your-iPhone--.html  1337bit Ltd. (pronounced Elite Bit) has created a new exciting iPhone game that is based around the old Easter family tradition of egg tapping around the Easter breakfast table. The old Easter tradition of Egg tapping for Easter breakfast involves family members sitting around the Easter breakfast table tapping painted hard boiled Easter eggs into each other. janko@kattare.com (Dr. Janko Mrsic Floegel) Thu, 01 Apr 2010 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9915/1/Robert-Herjavec-Croatian-born-Canadian-entrepreneur-businessman-and-TV-star.html Herjavec began his career with IBM mainframe sales but in 1990 founded BRAK Systems which soon became Canada's top provider of Internet security software. BRAK Systems was sold to AT&T in 2000 for $100 million. Subsequently Herjavec founded and runs The Herjavec Group, a fast-growing security software company. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 15 Jan 2010 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9899/1/Original-Zinfandel-Crljenak-Katelanski-arrives-in-the-United-States.html The almost extinct Dalmatian grape varietal Crljenak Ka¹telanski has been resurrected and replanted by one of Croatia’s top winemakers, Zlatan Plenkovic. The first shipment of Zlatan Crljenak arrived in the U.S. two weeks ago! Zlatan Crljenak comes from Plenkovic’s vineyards in Makarska. It is a vibrant, youthful and very intriguing Croatian Zin. stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Mon, 14 Dec 2009 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9661/1/Slavonski-Poduzetnik-a-Croatian-success-story.html Vladimir Mihajloviæ, on the photo, is a newspaperman of Slavonski Poduzetnik - Slavonian Entrepreneur. He sent us a few very interesting stories published in this monthley issued in Osijek, a major town in Slavonija. Slavonia is a very fertile historical region on the north of Croatia. The editor in chief of this excellent bussiness journal is Tihomir Jelaviæ. vladom@xnet.hr (Vladimir Mihajloviæ) Sun, 23 Nov 2008 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/9504/1/Mateo-Juric-Croatian-Real-Estate-Specialist-in-Las-Vegas.html Mateo Juric (left) and his team have sold over $320,000,000 in residential properties just in recent years and are currently the leading real estate team in Prudential Americana Group in Las Vegas. their specialty and focus is particularly with bank/foreclosure properties, REOs and builders' close-outs. This could be the best time to consider Las Vegas hottest properties! stecak@sbcglobal.net (Marko Puljiæ) Tue, 18 Mar 2008 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8920/1/Croatia-Gifts-established-by-Pam-Kelley-and-Melissa-Obenauf.html     letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Tue, 30 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/8898/1/Kastav-Croatia-on-the-World-map-thanks-to-Darko-Ivaneiae--ELCON----KEZIA-formed.html One of the most demanding businesses that ELCON Marine carried out was equipping the largest cruise ship in the world, Queen Mary II with the "heart" of  AV systems - audiovisual racks for local entertainment for the entire cruise ship. Numerous awards and acknowledgments followed.   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 15 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4848/1/E-HRT---CROATIAN-RADIO-TELEVISION-America.html CROATIAN RADIO TELEVISION - America HRT-America www.hrt-america.com HRT-Australia www.hrt-australia.com PICTURE OF CROATIA is the North American television broadcast of Croatian Radio and Television, HRT (Hrvatska Radiotelevizija), the national public broadcaster of the Republic of Croatia. Picture of Croatia offers information on Croatian history, culture, and heritage as well as news, sports and entertainment programs of interest to Croatians living abroad.The channel consists of an 8-hour block of original programming broadcasted from 8pm to 4am ET (5pm to 1am PT) followed by two rebroadcasts of the initial 8-hours block.Picture of Croatia offers American viewers the latest daily entertainment as broadcasted in Croatia, including a 30-minute news bulletin from TV DNEVNIK to keep you informed on the current events in Croatia and the world.VOICE OF CROATIA is Picture of Croatia's full-time companion international radio channel, which replaces HR International. Voice of Croatia is specifically for the Croatian population living abroad. Focusing on social, economic and cultural issues, Voice of Croatia keeps listeners informed about current events and culture events back home.For more information, visit www.hrt.hr or contact us at:Experience the Croatia of today by subscribing to HRT's Picture of Croatia and Voice of Croatia - your direct link with Croatia - now available in North America as Pay TV.For $15.99 US dollars a month, HRT's Picture of Croatia and Voice of Croatia comes directly to your home via satellite. All you need is a GlobeCast WorldTV satellite system, including a satellite dish, a satellite receiver and an authorized smartcard to decode the Television & Radio progam.HRT - America Inc. 6708 Stoneybrooke Lane,Alexandria, VA 22306 Tel: 1-703-768-2746 | E-mail: info@hrt-america.com HRTPrisavlje 3,10 000 Zagreb, CroatiaE-mail: satelitski_program@hrt.hrHRT-America www.hrt-america.com HRT-Australia www.hrt-australia.com  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 09 May 2005 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4847/1/H-ATP-TURNIR-CROATIA-OPEN-UMAG-25-31-srpnja-2005.html ÂATP TURNIR CROATIA OPEN UMAG 1990.- 2005.Âwww.croatiaopen.hrÂOd 1990. godine, kao prvi nosioc turnira u srednjoj i Istočnoj Europi i prvi hrvatski turnir, Umag se nalazi na karti ATP-a, svjetske teniske organizacije koja pokriva sve kontinente.U pripremi je Åesnaesta izvedba ATP turnira Croatia Open Umag koji će se održati u Umagu u periodu od 25. do 31. srpnja 2005.g. sa ukupnim nagradnim fondom od 400.000 EUR. Već sada, nastup na turniru 2005.g. potvrdili su; Starace, Volandri, Ljubičić, Moya, Nadal, Canas. Croatia Open jedini iz Hrvatske odnosno Åire regije ovog dijela Europe pripada među 63 turnira u 32 zemlje svijeta iz vrhunskog muÅkog profesionalnog teniskog ciklusa poznatog u svijetu kao ATP. Njime je naÅa domovina uvrÅtena u âdruÅtvo malo ali odabranoâ€? koje predstavlja ekskluzivni i prestižni sportski sustav, koji je četvrta sportska institucija u svijetu I vodeća u individualnim sportovima od kojih je tenis najpopularniji. Teniski centar Stella Maris sagrađen je 1989/1990 da bi na hrvatskoj obali Mediterana započeo međunarodni turnir iz ciklusa ATP. U dosadaÅnjih petnaest uzastopnih godina Međunarodno prvenstvo Hrvatske u tenisu prolazilo je kroz stalan rast i razvoj te stasalo u događaj koji je ugledan i uvažen u svjetskim razmjerima. Malo se turnira može pohvaliti činjenicom da je od toliko igrača koji su sudjelovali čak njih petorica bilo broj 1 na prestižnoj ATP listi najboljih: Thomas Muster, Magnus Norman, Gustavo Kuerten, Carlos Moya i Marcello Rios.Svjestan svojih prednosti na međunarodnoj sceni, prije svega jakog imagea jednog od najljepÅih malih turnira kojega igrači drže za svoje omiljeno mjesto, ali i neiskoriÅtenih ili nedovoljno iskoriÅtenih potencijala ovog događaja kao vrhunskog medijsko-marketinÅkog proizvoda Republike Hrvatske, ovogodiÅnji petnaesti po redu Croatia Open nastavio je ostvarenje koncepcije âTournament of Excellenceâ€? započeto 2002.g. Oslonjen na dosadaÅnja iskustva i nedvojbene uspjehe, a posebno na tri iznimno važna i vrijedna priznanja âAward of Excellenceâ€? ( 1998.g., 2000.g.i 2001.g.) dodijeljena od svjetske teniske zajednice, turnir je postavio jasnu strukturu i odabrao pristup koji će razvijati slijedećih godina s ciljem stasanja u viÅu klasu međunarodnih teniskih natjecanja. Potrebno je naglasiti da je 2001.godine na zavrÅnici 12. ATP turnira Croatia Open Umag taj događaj uveličala prisutnost predsjednika Republike Hrvatske, predsjednika Republike Slovenije i predsjednika Republike Kazakhstan, Åto je potom na sastanku direktora ATP-a održanog u New Yorku krajem kolovoza te godine, gosp Mark Miles, predsjednik Uprave ATP-a, posebno istaknuo kao jedinstveni događaj u povijesti ATP-a.Croatia Open jedini je predmet poslovanja tvtke Istra â Golf d.o.o. u sklopu hotelsko â ugostiteljske tvrtke Istraturist d.d. Umag . SjediÅte joj je u Umagu u međunarodnom teniskom centru Stella Maris. âIstra Golfâ€?, a u daljnjem tekstu Croatia Open. Ovom prilikom vrijedno je istaknuti veliku pomoć sponzora bez koje bi bilo nemoguće upriličiti ovakav sportski događaj. ProÅle godine Umag i Hrvatska obilježili su 15 godina turnira Croatia Open i 10 godina neponovljive sage o jednom tenisaču i jednom turniru â deseti uzastopni dolazak Carlosa Moye na turnir u Umagu. Carlos Moya je, kao jedan od igrača TOP 10 na ATP ljestvici i četverostruki pobjednik Umaga (1996., 2001.,2002. i 2003. godine).Unatoc pobjedi argentinca Guillerma Canasa, neprikosnoveni Âkralj Umaga ostaje Carlos Moya koji je pristupom pokazao da je provjereni prijatelj Hrvatske. Medu svojim prijateljima, suigracima i u medunarodnoj javnosti poznat je po svojoj posebnoj privrženosti umaÅkom turniru i Hrvatskoj. Jedan je od nekolicine ATP igraca koji su prepoznati kao âsportske i medijske licnostiâ€? te predvode cjelokupni ATP kao cetvrtu sportsku organizaciju u svijetu. Priznanje ovom velikom igracu, a nadasve promicatelju Hrvatske proÅle je godine, predsjednik republike Hrvatske, gospodin Stjepan Mesic osobno urucio dana 21. srpnja u svom Uredu uz prisustvo Mark Milesa, CEO ATP, De Erice Gomez-Acebo, Sebastian, Veleposlanik Åpanjolske, Carlos Gomez, regionalni direktor Sol Melia Hrvatska d.o.o., Gordana Tomicic, predsjednica Uprave Istraturista d.d. I Slavka Rasbergera, direktor Croatia Open Umag. Osim tog priznanja, grad Umag, kao domacin turnira Croatia Open Umag nagraduje Carlosa Moyu za sve ove godine u kojima je dao veliki doprinos njegovoj promidžbi. Sam turnir možemo reći da je započeo tradicionalnom tiskovnom konferencijom 15. lipnja 2004.g. u hotelu âOperaâ€? u Zagrebu gdje je osim velikog odaziva sponzora i novinara, bila prisutna I potpredsjednica Vlade, gospođa Jadranka Kosor koja je tom prilikom pozdravivÅi sve prisutne potvrdila svoj dolazak u Umag. Pod pokroviteljstvom Ministrice Ministarstva obitelji, branitelja I međugeneracijske solidarnosti, gospođom Jadrankom Kosor te uz direktan prijenos HRT-a, kao uvod u ovogodiÅnji, jubilarni turnir , u petak, 16. srpnja na centralnom terenu ITC-a održan je humanitarni koncert pod nazivom âNajbolje od nasâ€?.Turnir je osim po igračima koji uvijek rado stižu u Umag specifičan I po dolascima vrlo važnih gospodarstvenika I uglednika. Tako su i ove godine, osim predsjednika RH, gospodina Stjepana Mesića kao pokrovitelja turnira, među uvaženim i cijenjenim gostima turnir pratili guverner Narodne banke, gosp. Željko Rohatinski, Župan istarski, gosp. Ivan Jakovčić, predsjednik Uprave Zagrebačke banke, gosp. Franjo Luković, predsjednik Uprave TDR-a, gospodin Ante Vlahović, predsjednik Uprave INA-e, gosp. Tomislav Dragičević, predsjednik Uprave Podravke, gosp. Darko Marinac i ostali.ÂO značaju turnira govori I činjenica o medijskoj zastupljenosti turnira. HRT je i proÅle godine direktno prenosio mečeve od ponedjeljka do nedjelje cca 22 sata . Službeni medijski pokrovitelj proÅlogodiÅnjeg turnira bio je Europapressholding na čelu s gospodinom Ninoslavom Pavićem. O interesu novinskih kuća za turnir govori činjenica da je na proÅlogodiÅnjem turniru prisustvovalo 40 hrvatskih, 14 slovenskih i 10 stranih redakcija sa zahtjevom za akreditiranje svojih novinara kako bi izvjeÅtavali o turniru. Ukupno je na turniru bilo 147 akreditiranih novinara. S RITV-om je 2004. godine potpisan ugovor gdje je jedna od njihovih obveza bila svakodnevno emitiranje emisije u kojoj su se prikazivala zabavna događanja oko turnira. Internet stranice Turnira očitane su viÅe od 100 000 puta u periodu od 14 dana. Brojnim zanimljivim sadržajima stranice su privukle posjetitelje kako iz Hrvatske tako iz cijelog svijeta. Zabilježen je i velik broj posjetitelja za vrijeme održavanja turnira (cca 60.000. posjetitelja)Croatia Open okarakteriziralo je do sada 15 godina napornog i kvalitetnog rada te upornih godina nastojanja organizatora, teniskih djelatnika Hrvatske i turističkih djelatnika Istre da pokažu ljepotu Hrvatske svijetu i nagli rast njene ekonomije jer sport i turizam a u ovom konkretnom slučaju Umag, tenis i turizam, neÅto Åto ide ruku pod ruku te predstavljaju čvrste temelje za stvaranje turističke perspektive a znamo da je turizam jedna od najpropulzivnijih industrija sa direktnim utjecajem na gospodarstvo.ISTRA - GOLF d.o.o. Savudrijska cesta bb, p.p. 105, 52470 Umag, CROATIAPhone (385) 52 741 704, Fax (385) 52 741 513Âwww.croatiaopen.hr letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 09 May 2005 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4845/1/E-Istraturist---New-Web-Page.html ÂIstraturist - New Web Pageswww.istraturist.hrJedna od najvecih hotelijersko-turistickih kuca u Istri Istraturist is a company with a forty years tradition of tourism.ÂOp-edÂI have been guest at Sol Koralj Hotel last year, participating at the concert "Najbolje od Nas" - Toni Cetinski and Friends. From food, to hospitality everyone at the hotel passed the test of the tourist from the west. I wholeheartedly recommend your staying at those hotels, especially if you are visiting during Croatia Open, because it is just few minutes walk as they say Lungomare. Boardwalk near the blue Adriatic sea.ÂNenad BachÂÂABOUT US Dear VisitorsWelcome to Istraturist Umag d.d. website!Istraturist is a company with a forty years tradition of tourism. Our basic activities are providing accommodation and catering services in hotels, tourist settlements and campgrounds. We would also like to emphasize our participation in organizing the International Tennis Tournament, ATP Croatia Open Umag for the past 15 years.All our facilities are located on the northwest coast of the Istrian Peninsula, in the are of the towns of Umag and Buje, as well as the Brtonigla community. We own 7 hotels, 4 tourist settlements and 5 campgrounds, totaling 20,000 beds. According to 2004 data, Istraturist holds 10% of the total Istrian tourist market and 4% of the total Croatian tourist market.Istraturist development strategy is directed towards systematic improvement of product quality according to the general vision of development of Istria into a prestige tourist destination. In accordance with this strategy, our investment politics are centered on the establishment of 3***star and 4**** star accommodation categories for our facilities. These investments will also highlight Istrian visual images and the overall image of each individual facility. In 2004, 42% of our hotel facilities were categorized as 4****star and 23% were categorized as 3***star accommodations. According to our achieved category levels, we are implementing high international standards for our catering services. We have also developed educational programs as well as activities directed to the satisfaction of our employees. The business strategy of our company is to provide our services in an environmental friendly atmosphere, which includes in all its segments protection of our natural environment, maintenance of local cultures, way of life and developing a friendly relationship with local communities. Management strives to achieve efficient and economical results for the benefit of owners and shareholders. More information ABOUT US can be found throughout our website, so we invite you to learn moreâVISION Istraturist Umag, d.d. is a hotel catering Company which with its development potential aims to become a prestigious tourist company in the Mediterranean, carrying on restructuring and market repositioning. DEVELOPMENTAL STRATEGY Participation in regional development plans Supporting public institutions in activities to achieve quality positioning for Istria in the tourist market Directing investment politics towards improvement of accommodation categories of our own facilities to the level of 3***star and 4****star Investments to be based on following of Istrian visual images and the image of each individual facility To develop new tourist products which meet the interest and needs of guests, their activities, and emotional experiences in order to prolong the duration of the tourist season To think and act ecologically, to maintain and protect natural resources, local culture and way of life To continually apply the highest international standards of the catering industry services To invest in educational programs and higher standards for employees.HOTELSSo far, investments in hotels have enabled a variety of hotel offers. Therefore, Istraturist offers in 2004 a mixture of facilities with 42% of hotel accommodations categorized as 4****star and 23% categorized as 3***star.Hotel Koralj****is our first 4****star hotel and belongs to a group of hotels with a long tradition. A specialty of this hotel is its maintenance of high quality gastronomic offers and sports facilities. Katoro bb, 52470 Umag, Istra - Croatia Tel: ++385 52 701 000, Fax: ++385 52 701 999E-mail: sol.elite.koralj@istraturist.hr ...Sol Koralj is above all renowned for its particular food offer dominated by delicacies and aromas of the Istrian region, recommended and prepared by the famous chef. It is located in the proximity of a valuable archaeological site - the Villa Tiola, to which it is linked through its wellness centre bearing the same name, which takes us to ancient timesâlocated amidst a pinewood and only 100 m from the beachrooms and luxurious apartments with a sea viewbuffet restaurant with show cooking and a rich offer of delicaciestavern âMediteranâ€? with international dishes and marvelous Istrian meals, wide range of winesthematic Istrian gastro-nights, authentic meals, Istrian dances andinstrumentselegant aperitif barnew Wellness Villa Tiola that will impress you with its atmosphere and take you back to the times of the ancient Romans (amber, sandal-wood, and ginger treatments, cupping, acupuncture, Thai, Shiatsu and Chi Nei Tsang massages, Reikiâ)an indoor swimming pool and 3 outdoor swimming pools with salt water, 2 of which are for children, fitnessfor your business meetings, workshops and congresses there are 3 modern conference halls and wireless Internetentertainment hall with light-show and barnearby valuable archaeological sitelong, rocky beach with arranged plateaus, water-splash, buffet Koralj on the beach with grill and live music in the eveningsport and entertainment: near the hotel there is a trim path, 14 open air and 2 covered tennis courts with tennis school, water sports, mini golf, beach volley, table tennis, water splash, handball, football and basketball courts and riding centre; guests can take advantage of bike and roller-blades rental; entertainment is organized by the Sol Melia entertainment team which prepares day and evening entertainment for children and adults and offers a possibility of recreation in Activities Club and Mini ClubparkingHotel Aurora**** is a 4****star hotel reconstructed in 2002, creating a warm and special ambience. Its traditional interior was renovated to blend itself with its beautiful natural environment. This hotel is perfect for those guests who want relaxation in a natural Mediterranean atmosphere.Hotel Umag**** is a 4****star hotel designed as a hotel resort for year round operation. With its wide selection of offers, it satisfies the needs of the most demanding guests. A wellness program is available for those guests who are want to step away from the fast pace of life through active rest and relaxation in an oasis of Istrian ambiance. The Meeting Center was opened in October of 2004, completing the hotel's offers and contributing to the operation of its facilities during the off season. Therefore, Hotel Umag aims to widen its services to those who enjoy combining business meetings with sports and relaxation activities. Garden Istra Accommodation Complex*** â In the year 2004, the first phase of Garden Istra Accommodation Complex has been completed, while its final phase is planned for 2006. Apart from other accommodation facilities renovated in 2004, this complex will include Hotel Istra which is to be reconstructed by 2006, totaling 1,500 bed. The future Hotel Istra will be positioned on the market as a ''sports hotel'' offering sports, recreation, leisure adventures and water and entertainment theme parks.Convention Hotel Adriatic â Its middle â long term investment plan includes complete reconstruction of the existing Hotel Adriatic into a high category Convention Hotel, meant for middle-sized meetings. Hotel Sipar***After a complete refurbishment hotel Sipar has obtained the 3 stars category. The goal of the Company is to have a total hotel offer which, beside the 4 stars hotels, will include 3 stars facilities of high quality that will satisfy the needs of a wide range of different target groups. Hotel Sipar has modern interior and amenities, and is meant for the whole-year operation.ECOLOGYWe are actively involved in several development projects using method which are environmentally friendly. We pay special attention to the preservation of the environment and reasonable use of natural and energy resources. Beach Development ProjectsBeach development projects are carried on through a program called Plava Zastava (Blue Flag). These blue flags represent the high standard of cleanliness of our Istrian beaches. In 2004, seven Istraturist beaches were flying blue flags.SavudrijaPolynesiaKatoroAuroraLaguna (Sol STella Maris) - The most beautiful Croatian beach in the year 2003.Ladin Gaj(The City of Umag also has the Blue Flag for ACI Marina Umag and the Green Flag for the elementary school V.C.Emina)Landscape Architecture ProjectsWe are planning in detail the arrangement of green areas, enriching them with plants of local origin. We actively maintain our wooded areas. In 2004, in an area the size of 17 hectares, approximately 400 Pinus Pinea trees (Stone Pine) and olive trees were planted, while through ecological felling, the existing woods were treated. Public Lighting Projects We have installed environmental friendly public lighting only, which gives protection from light pollution and also preserves animal life and vegetation.Water Protection Programsare related to â reduction of wastewater volumeâ Installation of water flow control mechanismsâ Installation of water saving devicesSquirrel Protection ProjectThis project is being carried on in cooperation with Marija and Lina Elementary School in Umag, which for the past few years has had the status of an ''''EKO-school''''.CONTACTIstraturist Umag d.d.Jadranska 66, 52470 Umag, CroatiaTel: +385 (52) 719 000Fax: +385 (52) 719 271E-mail addresses:info@istraturist.hr marketing@istraturist.hr prodaja@istraturist.hr financije@istraturist.hr nabava@istraturist.hr posao@istraturist.hr informatika@istraturist.hr investicije@istraturist.hr Reservations: Info telephone toll-free number:800 33 00 22 (only for calls from Croatia) Tel:+385 (52) 71 91 00 (hotels&settlements)+385 (52) 71 91 10 (hotels&settlements)+385 (52) 71 91 22 (camping sites)Fax: : +385 (52) 71 99 99e-mail: hotel@istraturist.hr camping@istraturist.hr crs@istraturist.hr ÂSrdacan pozdrav, Jelena SimunovicOdjel marketinga i prodajeIstraturist Umag d.d.Tel: +385 (52) 719 105Fax: +385 (52) 719 380e-mail: jelena.simunovic@istraturist.hrwww.istraturist.hr  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 09 May 2005 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4844/1/E-ATP-CROATIA-OPEN-UMAG-The-Tournament-history.html ÂATP TURNIR CROATIA OPEN UMAG 1990.- 2005.Âwww.croatiaopen.hrÂ25th April 2005.ATP CROATIA OPEN UMAG The Tournament history 1990.- 2005.For the past 15 years ATP Croatia Open Umag, has been known as one of the most intriguing tennis tournaments of ATP International series in Europe. The unique Âshell shape of central stadium, location just on the beach, excellent combination of tourism, economy and sport Event, have been the trade marks of Umag, and Croatia itself. Great skill of tournament personal in finding a good combination of daily great matches and evening entertainment, are a magnet for numerous spectators, Croatian leading companies and world famous players. Not so many tournaments in this category can be praised with participation of players from clay tennis elite: Thomas Muster, Gustavo Kuerten, Marcelo Rios, Carlos Moya, Alberto Berasategui, and newcomers such as Filippo Volandri and Rafael Nadal. ÂWinners :â90 â G. Prpic â94 â A. Berasategui â98 â B. Ulihrach â02 â C. Moyaâ91 â D. Poliakov â95 â T. Muster â99 â M. Norman â03 â C. Moyaâ92 - T. Muster â96 â C. Moya â00 â M. Rios â04 â G. Canasâ93 â T. Muster â97- F. Mantilla â01 â C. Moya Thomas Muster, 3 times winner of the Tournament, and Carlos Moya, 4 times winner of the Tournament, have been both awarded from the town and government institutions for great sport and political involvement in promoting Umag & Croatia.As far as the Tournament awards, besides numerous national awards, the ATP community has honored the Tournament organization by presenting it the Award of excellence 3 times. 1998, 2000, 2001, each time acknowledging the growing improvements in organizing this type of event.Sponsorship aspectSince the Tournament beginnings in 1990, Croatia has passed many transformations, from socialism to democracy, trough war to liberty, not stopping the Event trough the whole time, making the Tournament the only international Event in the country during the war, proving its importance and value beyond everything.Today, Croatian economy has reached a status of marketing expanding community, and presenting a company on the tournament in Umag has become an important step, almost a âmustâ€? for all mayor Croatian and European trademarks with importance in this region.The sponsorship value has been acknowledged by many Croatian companies, covering the most important Croatian brands from paint producers to water, and international brands such as Pepsi, Toyota etc. Trough the 15 years the tournament has gathered a strong sponsor family, celebrating with many of them a constant 10 year old cooperation.Various promotional opportunities, from visual exposure in tennis center and central court, to VIP sponsor village with daily presentations, have created many interesting details in capturing different promotional requests for each sponsor. Besides standard promotional packages / from 25.000 â to 100.000 â / tournament goal is to reach to all various sponsors challenging them with new promotional ideas and combinations.Media coverageTelevision coverage of the Event is a valuable asset of the sponsorship market. In 2004 edition, Croatian national television, HTV, covers the Event with cca 22 hours of direct broadcasting, reaching more than 400.000 viewers. Private national wide TV channels, NOVA TV and RTL, have reported about the tournament ( estimated value cca 500.00 Kn / cca 67.000 â ). Several international broadcast companies have transmitted few matches and the final match.ISTRA - GOLF d.o.o. Savudrijska cesta bb, p.p. 105, 52470 Umag, CROATIAPhone (385) 52 741 704, Fax (385) 52 741 513ÂÂwww.croatiaopen.hrÂOp-edÂA special article about Director of the Croatia Open, Slavko Rasberger, and the Institution of Croatia Open will be published on CROWN soon. This is one of the Croatia's Brands worth paying attention to. And if you love tennis, July 25 - 31 2005, be there in Umag and enjoy our Croatian hospitality and a beautiful nature, great hotels, sports and culture. ÂNenad Bach Site: INTERNATIONAL TENNIS CENTER PO BOX 105, Istraturist 52470 Umag tel: 385-52/741704 fax: 385-52/741513 www.croatiaopen.hr Direktor: Slavko Rasberger tel: 385-52/741704 ili 710888 fax: 385-52/741513 slavko.rasberger@pu.htnet.hr  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 09 May 2005 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4843/1/E-Pam-Kelley-and-Melissa-Obenauf-HEART-OF-CROATIA.html  Pam Kelley and Melissa Obenauf  HEART OF CROATIAwww.croatiagifts.com HEART OF CROATIA GIFTSPam Kelley and Melissa Obenauf (pictured above) are thrilled to welcome you to HEART OF CROATIA GIFTS, where you will find gifts of exceptional and long-lasting quality to help you celebrate the beauty and richness of our wonderful CROATIAN CULTURE...HEART of CROATIA Gifts will be setting up shop in the following location on the following dates:*YOUNGSTOWN, OH: April 30-May 1 St. George's Day*PITTSBURGH, PA: May 27-28-29 Pittsburgh Folk Festival*PITTSBURGH, PA: June 26 Lodge #1 Picnic*CHICAGO, IL: July 1-2-3 CFU Jr. Tamburitzan Festival*PITTSBURGH, PA: July 9 Tamburaland Festival*YOUNGSTOWN, OH: September 4 Lodge Picnic*EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ: November 4-5-6 CFU Adult TamFESTHeart of Croatia will bring its store to YOUR Croatian event; just call us at 740-587-7715.Our ALL NEW, ALL CROATIAN Scrapbooking Kit...is now here!!!Remember to purchase your special Croatian FATHER a unique and special gift right here!Don't Miss Our Newest Category...the Adriatic Spa Collection!!!LONELY PLANET voted Croatia as the "hottest travel destination" in the world in 2005. HEART OF CROATIA is proud to carry LONELY PLANET's Travel Guide to Croatia, (by Jeanne Oliver) one of the most authoritative travel guides on Croatia on the market today! Go to Books Category to order your copy! 3rd EDITION IS HERE AND HOT OFF THE PRESS!Visit our CD Category; our newest additions are by the wonderful tambura ensembles, OTROV and SELO! And, Heart of Croatia also now offers a wonderful instructional kolo DVD/video! Heart of Croatia is the official North American representative for famed Croatian Naive Artist, Ivan Generalic. Just contact us by email or by phone at 877-906-8314 (toll-free in USA). You are receiving this email from Heart of Croatia because of your interest in our Gift Shop, or because of your interest in Croatia. To ensure that you continue to receive emails from us, add info@heartofcroatia.com  to your address book today.  Melissa Pintar Obenauf and Pamela Lacko Kelley, Proprietorsobenaufm@alink.com www.croatiagifts.com   letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 09 May 2005 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4846/1/E-MARASKA-5-centuries-of-tradition-and-world-reputation.html ÂÂ5 centuries of tradition and world reputationÂThis is not only a slogan, this is an experience carried over the centuries into MARASKA ZADAR, the house which continues the famous liqueur tradition of the ancient city Zadar. MARASKA products have the name known all over the world, while the confidence of the consumer is obtained by high and stable quality of its products based on the experience which has been brought through the centuries. Maraska has improved its range of liqueurs, strong drinks, fruit syrups and juicesIn peace and quietness of Zadar Dominican monastery, at the beginning of 16th century, the recipe of authentic Zadar liqueur was made and noted, liqueur which for the first time was prepared just by the apothecaries of the Dominican monastery.Special and full flavoured liqueur was known under the name of “ROSOLJ” (which came from the word “ros solis”- “the sun dew”). Later on, this liqueur was named MARASCHINO, as it was produced from the essence of ripe fruits of Dalmatian cherry marasca as well as from the leaves of its sprigs. In 18th century when at Zadar started the industrial production of liqueurs, Maraschino set out from Zadar and “sailed” into every more important European ports and metropolis.On the way Maraschino "sailed away" from Zadar and spread over the world, a very long time ago Prunus Cerarus Marasca sailed from Middle Asia to Zadar. Prunus Cararus Marasca - a noble plant with beautiful flower and rich fruits - our Dalmatian cherry marasca. It became attached to Dalmatian Karst, and in its sun and red soil "crljenica" marasca found the source of its vigour. It successfully thrives on the territory of Northern and Middle Dalmatia, from Zadar to Makarska, mainly in the continental regions and partly on the Dalmatian islands too.Thanks to the mild Mediterranean clime and to the specific kind of soil, cherry marasca reached the best quality. Fresh or manufactured, cherry marasca has different roles: as food, as prevention, protection and as medicine for human organism. As raw material, cherry marasca is "worth a gold" for the liqueur industry. So at MARASKA - ZADAR, the fruits of cherry marasca together with stone and leaf are used for the production of liqueurs (Maraschino, Cherry Brandy, Half), strong drinks (Kirsch, Mare), desert wines (Cherrica), fruit syrups (Amarena), and fruit juices (Maraška). Besides minerals, vitamins and proteins, marasca fruits are rich in aromatic substances, amino acids, sugar and colours.Hence, it can be said with good reason MARASKA - Sun in each drop!http://www.maraska.hr/engleski/e_povijest.html  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Wed, 04 May 2005 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4849/1/E-A-Val-Architectural-Metal-Corp--Val-Blaskovic.html ÂWelcome to A-Val Architectural Metal CorporationCreators of custom made architectural metal and glass designs.Among the best in the New York Metropolitan area.Established in March of 1984, A-Val Architectural Metal Corp. started with three employees and one truck. We now operate with more than fifty employees and twelve trucks to provide you with high quality professional service. A-Val Architectural Metal Corp. started in the storefront business, but has since evolved into one of the largest most respected architectural metal and glass companies in the Tri-State area. We specialize in, but are not limited to custom railings, lobby entrances, curtainwalls, interior metal and glasswork, custom storefronts and canopies. All ornamental metal and glass projects receive the same attention to detail no matter the size. Whether your project is bronze, stainless steel, aluminum or all glass, you can count on A-Val to work closely with your design build team to optimize quality as well as economy.Our office staff includes in-house engineering/drafting department with AutoCAD capabilities, project managers to see your project through and administrative personnel to insure proper flow of paperwork.Call Today A-Val Architectural Metal Corporation15-06 129th St., College Point, NY 11356Phone: 718 539 2391Fax: 718 353 1316E-mail us: val@a-val.com website: www.a-val.com God Bless AmericaEditor's Note:Val Blaskovic deserves another page in category People as well as Charity on CROWN. His contribution and style in which he does that, is among the best of us. His heart is as big as Manhattan (Big Apple). Always giving and never bragging. People see this and appreciate your kindness and generosity. Hvala !Nenad BachSome of our clients:A.J. Contracting Alexander Wolf & Son Americon Ammirati Puris Lintas Anchor Construction Atco Construction Corp. Barr & Barr Boston Properties Builders Group Cauldwell Wingate CDS Mestol Construction Citibank Citiscape Construction Compusite Turnkey Construction Core Construction Crow Jones Construction Designers Fore Ltd. Donna Karen Dorff Construction Duce Contracting Emmis Communications Estee Lauder Estee Lauder Store Des. Excel Interiors Gabe Construction George Hillenbrand Associates GM Services H.M. Hughes Helmsley - Spear, Inc. Hennegan Hines Property Management HJ Kalikow & Co. LLC HLW Services Humphreys & Harding IBM Icon Interiors IDI Construction J.T. Magen & Company Inc. Jaeger James E. Fitzgerald James G. Kennedy Jar Construction JCS Design Associates John A. Grillo Architects John F. Davie Construction Justin Management Kajaro Management Kasper Ast. Ltd. Kotier Construction Lehr Construction Lehrer McGovern Bovis Lincoln Building Associates Manda Corp. Matura & Sons MBI Construction McHugh DiVincent Alessi Mendik Reality Company Inc. Morse Diesel Nine West NTX Interiors Oat Construction Corp. Oestreicher Construction Orsid Realty Pavarini Construction Peter Marino & Associate Architects Plaza Construction R.P. Brennan Rectenwald Brothers RFC Construction Richter & Ratner Rudin Management Sciame Construction Selby Construction Inc. Skyline Construction SPK/Lewis Construction Starwood Lodging Structure Tone The Vanderbilt Group Trebor Management Tri-M Construction Tri-Star Construction Turner Interiors ULM II Holding Corp. Vanguard Construction Vertical Club W & W Construction West Contracting Whitestone Construction Whitney Museum of Art Yorke Construction York-Hunter Zaffulo Construction  letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Fri, 26 Mar 2004 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4850/1/E-CROATIAmonthly.html ÂA Window To The Republic of Croatia! CROATIAmonthlyÂCROATIANS AROUND THE GLOBEÂFrom as far back as the 1830's the first wave of mass emigrations to the countries of the New World occurred, which mainly saw the Croatian population fit into the context of European migration flows of the time. There were many reasons why Croatians emigrated to foreign countries: economic underdevelopment, political reasons and for reasons of adventure and exploration. But for the majority of people who left their homes at the time the main reason was the economic situation. The most striking example of this was the so-called "Wine Clause," stipulated in an 1891 trade agreement between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy, which was particularly unfavorable to Dalmatian viticulture. The Wine Clause allowed the import of cheap Italian wines under very favorable conditions. The Dalmatian wine industry was heavily affected by this resolution by the Viennese authorities, which reduced its market in Croatia itself. The agreement lasted decades and was not revised for some time.Political conditions as the main motive of emigration was the result of the First World War and became much more significant immediately after World War II, when hundreds of thousands emigrated for fear of retaliation and the suppression of democracy by the Yugoslav authorities. The emigrants were mostly men from rural areas, young and without professional qualifications. In general it is safe to say that they performed the hardest and the most dangerous physicallabor in the countries they moved to. So-called chain emigration results in compact groups of emigrants, often related by family connections, place of emigration, region, etc. Thus, many emigrants from Dubrovnik have large communities in California, Peru, emigrants from the island of Hvar in Argentina, emigrants from Korcula in Brazil, emigrants from the Lika region in the American Midwest, emigrants from Makarska in New Zealand and Dalmatians in Australia.The most recent research conducted can't conclusively reveal how many Croatians have left their country and how many currently live abroad. It is estimated, from a combination of sources, that there are over 1.5 million Croatians who have emigrated and taken up permanent residence in one of the destination countries. Together with descendents, the number of Croatians that live in overseas countries can be estimated at 2.5 million.ÂIt should be noted that after the Homeland War of the last decade, large migrations from the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina have changed the ethnic aspect of that country. Today within Bosnia and Herzegovina there are an estimated 450,000 Croatians who are registered in BiH out of a totalpopulation of 2.5 million.Croatians in AfricaWith the exception of the Republic of South Africa there are no Croatian communities on the African continent. Over 13,000 Croatians live in South Africa today. The largest wave of emigrants which found its way to this region was the result of the Second World War.Croatians in AustraliaThe Croatian community in Australia is very vivid and is supported through the multicultural attachment of the country. Australia has very large Italian and Greek populations and, according to some studies, the third largest group of descendents residing in Australia are from Croatia. It is estimated that 350,000 Croatian immigrants and descendants live in this country.Croatians in ArgentinaThe new generation of Croatians in Argentina is constantly decreasing, and the wave of emigrants post second world war generation is estimated at 130,000.Croatians in AustriaThe Croatian minority in Austria (Gradisce-Burgenland) has an estimated 60,000 inhabitants, where over 15,000 live in Vienna. They have a highly developed ethnic consciousness, especially in the cultural aspect, and they strongly resist a loss of ethnic identity.Croatians in BelgiumAn estimated 12,000 Croatians live in Belgium. In addition to the older generation of emigrants (and today their descendents) who arrived in Belgium before and between the two world wars, the new, post-war emigrants make up most of the Croatian minority.Croatians in BoliviaAbout 1,200 Croatians live in this country which is today unfavorable to potential immigration due to poor standards. The majority of Croatians in Bolivia come from the Dalmatian region of Croatia.Croatians in Bosnia and Herzegovina782,068 Croatians used to live in Bosnia and Herzegovina, making up 17.4% of the total population. The decrease in this number is very distinctive and can be classified in the category of ethnic cleansing of the territory. Today the majority of Croatians in Bosnia and Herzegovina live in Western Herzegovina, Posavina and Central Bosnia. Last year official estimates revealed that 450,000 Croatians are registered inBiH.Croatians in BrazilIt is estimated that 80,000 Croatians live in Brazil. Unlike other Southern American countries in which the number of Croatians has stagnated or dropped after the war, Brazil is one of the few countries where the number of Croatian immigrants is constantly on the rise.Croatians in CanadaThere are about 400,000 Croatians in Canada today. The largest number of Croatians live in the province of Ontario. There are three waves of Croatianemigrants in this country; the first wave started arriving from the late 1800's. The second group came after the Second World War and the most recent emigration wave was the direct result of the Homeland War.Croatians in ChileDue to the global economic crisis and a shortage of profitable reserves of saltpeter, Chile has had difficulties in keeping up with the economic trends of the developed western world. This has caused a decrease of Croatians living in Chile and it has had a direct effect of the dynamics of their immigration. There are 25,000 Croatians living in Chile today.Croatians in the Czech Republic and SlovakiaThe Croatian communities in these countries are scattered among seven villages in Bohemia (Moravia) and seven villages in Slovakia (around Bratislava). Most of them live in Slovakia(Devinsko Selo, Hrvatski Grob, etc.). The number of indigenous Croatians in these countries is constantly decreasing. It is estimated that 6,000 Croatians reside in these countries today.Croatians in DenmarkUntil the conclusion of World War II, it was recorded that no Croatians lived in this country. Today, over 2,000 Croatians live in Denmark, half of whom reside in Copenhagen.Croatians in FranceAbout 40,000 Croatians live in France today. Most came to France after the 1960's, when the Communist regime opened the borders.Croatians in GermanyGermany is home to the largest Croatian community in western Europe. There are 193,000 permanent emigrants and another 230,000 working status Croatian emigrants.Croatians in HollandAbout 40,000 Croatians live in the Netherlands today. Most arrived after the 1960's, when the Communist regime opened the borders.Croatians in HungaryHungary and Croatia have a rich tradition and this can be seen mostly in the communities around Pecs and in Budapest. Over 73,000 Croatians live in Hungary today.Croatians in ItalyAt least, 33,000 Croatians live in Italy. The Croatian community in Abruzzi (Molise Croatians), in the village Acquaviva (the living water) and its surroundings maintains Croatian traditions, and the older residents even preserve their local dialect.Croatians in Latin AmericaThere are about 30,000 Croatians who found there way to this part of the world. Most were economic and political post-war emigrants.Croatians in LuxembourgThere are currently 1,200 Croatian emigrants registered in Luxembourg.Croatians in MacedoniaEstimates reveal a Croatian population of 3,400 currently living in Macedonia.Croatians in New ZealandAbout 19,000 Croatians live in New Zealand. In addition to a limited number of post-war immigrants, the number primarily refers to thedescendants of previous immigrants from the Makarska littoral area and the Zagora region that gravitates towards it(Vrgovac), together with natives of Korcula and Peljesac who began to immigrate to this country in the second half of the 19th century.Croatians in RomaniaA portion of the Croatians who emigrated to the Banat long ago found themselves within the borders of Romania after World War I. In the Caras-Severin district around Rasice(Resita), there are about a dozen Croatian villages where the majority of Croatians live. It is estimated that 12,000 Croatians live in Romania.Croatians in SloveniaAbout 55,000 inhabitants of Croatian nationality live in the Republic of Slovenia, making up about 3% of the total Slovenian population.Croatians in SerbiaCroatians in Vojvodina are a part of the indigenous population that has lived there for 300 or more years. There are 83,000 Croatians inVojvodina, making up 3.8%, 22,000 Bunjevci Croatians making up 1.1% and another 1,865 Sokci Croatians, making up 0.9% of the totalpopulation inVojvodina. Some estimates indicate that there are 110,000 Croatians in Vojvodina, but this still means that their number is in continuous decline. Another 8,178 Croatians lived inKosovo, but their number has drastically decreased over the last decade.Croatians in SwedenBesides Germany, this is one of the traditional destinations of Croatian labor migration. Today, most people belong to the category of permanent emigrants. A significant number of Croatians live inMalmo, Goteborg and Stockholm. It is estimated that 35,000 Croatians live in Sweden.Croatians in SwitzerlandThe majority of Croatians live in the German-speaking cantons of Switzerland. It is estimated that over 41,000 Croatians live in Switzerland.Croatians in the United States of AmericaThe United States is the leading immigration destination for Croatian immigrants. It is estimated that over 600,000 Croatians moved to this country and an additional 250,000 Croatians moved to this country after the Homeland War. The USA is home to more than 1.5 million Croatian descendents.A Window To The Republic of Croatia! CROATIAmonthlyCroatiamonthly is the only English printed newspaper in the Republic ofÂCroatia! Over 10,000 issues are printed on a monthly basis to reach out toall interested in our fascinating country - CROATIA! It is designed for theinternational community, foreigners attending business and professionalconferences, and for the many holiday visitors! Croatiamonthly can be seenonline Free of Charge at www.croatiamonthly.hrÂor if the hard copy is more for you subscribetoday and discover the fascinating country of Croatia! We welcome anysuggestions and enquires at info@croatiamonthly.hrÂDISCOVER CROATIA TODAY! Take Croatia home with your copy ofCroatiamonthly!infoMedia d.o.o. iC MEDIA d.o.o.Marticeva 5, 10000 Zagreb, HrvatskaTel: 01/455-4841 Fax: 01/461-2334Maticni broj: 0538264Ziro-racun: 2340009-1110010454, PBZ ZagrebJure Antunovic, direktorÂjure.antunovic@croatiamonthly.hrÂIvan Curic, Directorivan.curic@croatiamonthly.hrÂÂCroNetwork: The Croatian-American Organization for Young Professionals. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 22 May 2003 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4851/1/E-Croatian-Fraternal-Union-Lodge-789-Slobodna-Hrvatska.html http://www.cfunyc.com/index.htmlÂCroatian Fraternal Union Lodge 789, Slobodna Hrvatska, has been in existence for well over sixty years and as its name implies, has always been an outspoken supporter of a free and independent Croatia.Lodge 789 members strive to forge lasting friendships with other lodges throughout the US, Canada and Croatia. Some of the national events that Lodge 789 members have participated in over the last several years are: the Junior and Senior Tambura Festivals, Ski-Festivals, and the Croatian Humanitarian Aid Fund. It members are also encouraged to participate in national bowling, basketball, softball, and golf tournaments. Also on the national level an attractive scholarship program is available to all college-level members.On the local level, a hiking trip to upstate New York was recently held, in addition to an evening at an off-Broadway dinner theatre and a winter wine tasting exhibition. In past years, lodge members have attended the US Tennis Open in support of fellow Croats and participated in Croatian Cuisine Month at the United Nations.The goal behind all of these events is to promote fraternalism and offer Croats, both young and old, an opportunity to benefit from, and network with, an international organization that has been in existence since 1894 and boasts over 100,000 members. letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Mon, 24 Jun 2002 07:00:00 +0000 http://www.croatia.org/crown/articles/4852/1/EH-Do-Your-Part-For-Croatia---CroLinkscom.html ÂÂwww.crolinks.comÂDo Your Part For Croatia!As Croatia is recognized as an independent country (and as a strong force in world sports and science), it is the duty of all Croatians worldwide to do their part to publicize Croatia, and educate those around us. Be it through stories, pictures, or via links on the internet, we must show the world that we are a civilized, peace-loving people, contrary to the way we are portrayed in some media.As such, the task I have set for myself is to develop as large an index of Croatian links as possible. Links are broken down into self-explanatory categories. My goal is "unification" of Croatians worldwide through this project.As you look at my site, please keep in mind that this is a labour of love for Croatia, a strong feeling within me.Now that you see where I'm coming from, I hope you will help me in this endeavour. If you come across a URL you do not see on my pages, please send it to me, and I'll have it added within a day or two. At the very least, let me add you to our email or personal homepage list.ÂUcini Svoje Za Hrvatsku!Posto Hrvatska je priznata kao nezavisna drzava (i jaka sila u svjetskom sportu i znanosti), duznost je svih Hrvata sirom svijeta dati svoj udio u prosirivanju saznanja o Hrvatskoj, te da poduci sve oko sebe. Bilo to kroz price, slike ili kroz hrvatske tzv. "linkove" na Internetu, moramo dokazati cijelome svijetu da smo civiliziran i miroljubiv narod, protivno onome kako nas opisuju neki mediji.S time na umu sam preuzeo zadatak sloziti sto je moguce veci indeks hrvatskih linkova. Linkovi su razvrstani u jednostavne kategorije. Moj cilj je "ujedinjenje" Hrvata sirom svijeta kroz ovaj projekt.Dok gledate moje stranice, imajte na umu da je ovo rezultat moje ljubavi prema Hrvatskoj, a to je moj snazan osjecaj.Sada kad znate odakle dolazim, nadam se da cete mi pomoci u ovom nastojanju. Ako nadete URL koji nije na mojim stranicama, molim vas da mi ga posaljete, i dodat cu taj link za dan ili dva. U svakom slucaju, posaljite mi vasu email adresu da je stavim nalistu.Ante Milardovic"The most comprehensive listof Croatian links on the Net!",Â"Najopširnija listaHrvatskih linkova na Internetu!",www.crolinks.comhttp://web2.kw.igs.net/~amilardo/patriot.htm letters@croatia.org (Nenad N. Bach) Thu, 18 Apr 2002 07:00:00 +0000