This is Allen '19' Strk back from Red Bull Arena where a special promotion took place called 'Croatian Heritage Night' on June 10th. It was a night where all Croatians got together for the occasion to watch the New York Red Bulls take on the New England Revolution. Despite no Croatians playing, everyone still managed to have a great time.

Red Bull Arena is really impressive when you first step inside. It feels like you are in a great European club stadium and it always blows me away.

I went with my friend Kyle to the game, who is Irish but has started to like Croatians more and more. We met up with our friend Alex (in the middle of the first picture, checkered jersey) and his Croatian friends. We sat together but then eventually moved around to start chants. My cousin Tony came by as he recently moved to America. He grew up in New Zealand for most of his life, but is Croatian and a major Croatian soccer follower. We all gathered up with Croatians around the arena and started chants. The Hajduk chant was loud on more than one occasion and I easily saw more Hajduk jerseys than Dinamo. I don't follow the Prva Liga that much, but because of my dad, I pull for Hajduk. The New England Revolution fan club was extremely loud by us, but the Croatians were way more packed and were yelling much more than they did.

A few leaders from the Croatian group finally decided to unleash the huge jersey. I heard rumors it was going to be a flag, but it turned out to be a 70x70 foot checkered jersey. It was the last thing I expected and it came down flowing through two sections to the right of us. I went over there and started holding the flag and waved it for a bit. It looked like the exact same thing fans did in Euro 2008 when Croatia defeated Germany. A buzz was sparked amongst Croatians in the stadium and it was an instant upgrade to a rowdy crowd. The Red Bulls saved a penalty during this time and then scored on an own goal after an awful clearance attempt by the Revolution. It led to the Revolution fan club being absolutely silent and the Croatians roaring. It amazed me how loud they still were despite no Croatians playing. It was so epic that I wish I could have been a player to experience the match from ground level.

It was a wonderful experience and I would do this again in a heart beat because the Croatians were so loud and were in full support. Everyone was united and it was definitely worth the price of admission.

A funny moment occurred when a rumor went around that former Croatian international and Genoa midfielder Ivan Jurić was in the stadium. I laughed as most Croatian fans could care less for him. I was telling my friends that Jurić was a huge bust for Croatia and never seemed to care for the national team. While it wasn't as humbling as the Tottenham experience (I sat in the 11th and 3rd row, seeing the three Croatian Spurs), it still was an event I would tell everyone to go to.

It's great to be united with Croatians and to really have a fun night out. I thank you for taking the time to read this Fan Zone as I always try to say what makes the best out of everything. You may hate the MLS or be totally against it, but when you see so many people around you having a good time, you should join in. Hopefully one day, an old Croatian comes to the MLS and plays for any team, regardless if it's New York. I have my hope in two to three years that I see Ivan Klasnić in New York! Now that would be so worth paying for!

On May 23rd, 2011 the Croatian American Charitable Foundation held its 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing and Awards Dinner at North Hills Country and North Hempstead Country Club in Long Island, New York. Over 220 golfers help raise money to help the American Cancer Society, Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic research, The Cam Neely Foundation and Croatian Mine Action Centre.

Some of the special guests this year included former 3-Time NBA Champion with the Chicago Bulls Toni Kukoc, legendary NY Red Bull Mike Petke and Croatian Consul General of New York Mr. Marijan Gubic.

In addition to the golfers nearly 75 companies participated in supported the charity. Rally Mercedes, A-Val Architectural, All State Insulation, Matura Insulation, IDC, Johns Manville and Amira Group signed on as Major Sponsors to support the foundation.

For the first time, the New York Red Bulls teamed up with the foundation to sponsor the Hole-In-One Contest and auctioned off a Luxury Skybox for the June 10th game between the Red Bulls and New England Revolution. In addition, New York will be hosting its first ever Croatian Heritage Night on June 10th. Proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the CACF.

REMEMBERING A LOSS
This year’s event marked the first since the loss of its co-founder, Vlado Blaskovic. Mr. Blaskovic was recognized with a moment of silence prior to tee-off and a speech during the awards and dinner. It was announced that the second golf outing held every October at Mill River Club will be renamed the Vlado Blaskovic Memorial Golf Outing so that his legacy and contribution to the CACF will be remembered.

The New York Red Bulls and Croatian American Charitable Foundation have teamed up to host the 1st ever “Croatian Heritage Night” for the NY Red Bulls/NE Revolution match on Friday June 10th, 8:30pm at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. The “MLS game of the Week” will be broadcast nationally on Fox Soccer Channel and its nearly 40 million cable subscribers.

"Croatians are one of the most passionate and dedicated soccer fans in the world today.", said John Peros, Board Member of the CACF, “We are thrilled that the Red Bull organization recognize and are supporting the Croatian Community in the NY Tri-State area.” It is estimated that there are over 120,000 Croatians that live within the NY-Tristate Area with an additional 50,000 that reside in the South Jersey-Philadelphia region.

At last year’s Barclays Cup Challenge over 20,000 fans, many of them Croatian, came to watch the NY Red Bulls play the Tottenham Hotspurs with Croatian players Luka Modric, Vedran Corulka and Niko Krancjar.

Peros added, “We had Croats by the thousands come out to watch that game so the fans are there. These types of events galvanize our community so I expect a huge turnout for the game. It will be a night to remember.”

A portion of each ticket sale will be donated by the Red Bulls to the CACF and its ongoing demining efforts in Croatia. Tickets can be purchased on the Red Bulls website ( www.newyorkredbulls.com ) or CACF website ( www.croatiancharities.com ).

The New York Red Bulls and soccer legend Davor Suker have teamed up to host the 2nd Annual "Mini Clinic for Charity" to benefit the Croatian American Charitable Foundation. The event will take place on Saturday, May 21st 2011 at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) campus in Old Westbury, Long Island.

"We want to thank both Mr. Suker and the Red Bull New York organization for supporting our foundation with this clinic." said Tomislav Nogalo, President of the CACF. "Last year’s event was such a great success and now to have Red Bull New York join the event is truly remarkable." Joining Suker at the clinic will be some members of the Red Bull Reserves Team.

In addition to the three (3) hour clinic, all participating students will receive two (2) tickets to an upcoming Red Bulls match and a shirt commemorating the event, courtesy of Red Bull New York and Davor Suker.

The clinic will be for children between the ages of 9-13 and all proceeds will benefit the CACF and its ongoing battle for removing mines in Croatia.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation announced today that former European and NBA superstar Toni Kukoc will be attending the 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing and Awards Dinner on Monday, May 23th 2011 in Long Island, New York.

"We are excited and thrilled that Mr. Kukoc will be joining us at this year’s outing"’, said Vincent Naletilic, Board Member of the CACF. "Toni is a true hero in the Croatian community and a tremendous golfer as well."

In a recent interview, Kukoc indicated his desire to represent Croatia as a golfer for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. “Golf is my great love and the best game invented by man. I practice four or five times a week and have a three handicap. I'm so happy because golf has returned to the Olympic family," added Kukoc . Croatian officials have talked to him about playing and/or coaching its golf team that will vie to play in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Mr. Kukoc career accomplishments include (3) NBA Championships with the Chicago Bulls, (3) Euro League Championships (1) FIBA World Championship, (2) Olympic Silver Medals and (1) FIBA World Junior Championship. He has been awarded the NBA Sixth Man Award (1996) and has been named European Player of the Year 3 times.

Kukoc will be joining Croatia soccer legend Davor Suker and New York Red Bulls fan favorite Mike Petke at the event which benefits the American Cancer Society, Cam Neely Foundation, Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic research, and demining efforts in Croatia.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation announced today that legendary New York Red Bull Mike Petke will be attending the 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing and Awards Dinner on Monday, May 23th 2011 in Long Island, New York. The event will benefit the American Cancer Society, Cam Neely Foundation, Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic research, and demining efforts in Croatia.

Petke, a native of Bohemia, NY in Long Island, was drafted by New York in the first round of the 1998 MLS College Draft and made his MLS debut on April 17, 1998. Petke spent (8) eight years of his career with the NY franchise and remains one of the most beloved players in team history. Petke is the Red Bulls all-time leader in games and minutes played and is currently ranked in the top ten in MLS history in both these categories.

After leading New York to the Eastern Division regular season title in 2000, Petke went on a two week trial with Bundesliga side Bayern Munich. After his trial with Bayern, FC Kaiserslautern offered Petke a contract, but he elected to remain with New York. In 2004, Petke won the MLS Cup as a starter for DC United. He then helped stabilize the Colorado backline and was a key player in helping the Rapids reach the Western Conference Finals in 2005.

In 2008, to the delight of Red Bull fans, New York reacquired Petke. During the 2010 season Petke announced that he would retire at the end of the season. He concluded his (13th) thirteenth and last professional season appearing in 16 regular season matches, and helped New York capture its second Eastern Division regular season title. His final goal was on 20 March 2010, when Petke scored the second goal for Red Bulls in a 3-1 victory against Santos FC, which was the first match played at the new Red Bull Arena.

Internationally, Petke was part of the 2002 U.S. Men’s National Team player pool, earning his first cap during a scoreless draw with Ecuador in Columbus on June 7, playing the full 90 minutes. Was part of the 1996 U.S. Olympic Team player pool in Atlanta. Captained the U.S. Under-21 Team, and was a member of the U.S. squad that competed in the 1995 World University Games in Japan.

Petke was a 3-Time MLS all star for New York and was voted by the fans as one the all-time XI for the New York Red Bulls in March 2010. He is currently an Assistant Coach and Business Operations Manager for the New York Red Bulls.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation announced today that soccer legend Davor Suker will be attending the 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing and Awards Dinner on Monday, May 23th 2011 in Long Island, New York. This is the third consecutive year that Mr. Suker will be attending this event that will benefit the Croatian Mine Action Centre, American Cancer Society, Cam Neely Foundation, Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic research and Doctors Without Borders.

"We are delighted to have Mr. Suker joining us again and supporting the CACF.", said Tomislav Nogalo, President of the CACF. “Mr. Suker is a wonderful supporter of our organization for a few years now and we look forward to seeing him at our outing.”

Mr. Suker’s legendary career have included stops at Sevilla, Arsenal and Real Madrid. In La Liga Šuker was highly-regarded, showing consistent form with Sevilla and being amongst the top goal scorers for consecutive seasons. He signed with Real Madrid 5 years later, and was again amongst the league's top scorers, which helped Madrid claim the La Liga title, the Supercup trophy and win the Champions League during his tenure there.

He led Croatia to their first major international tournament, the Euro 1996, with a then record of 12 goals in 10 matches during the qualifying tournament. At the final tournament in England, he scored three goals in four matches, including two in the 3–0 group-stage win over defending champions Denmark, where he set the final score with an unforgettable looping shot over Denmark's keeper Peter Schmeichel. It is still remembered as one of the greatest goals in Euro history, which also earned him a place in the EURO 96 Team of the Tournament.

He then went on to help Croatia to qualify for their first World Cup as he scored five goals in nine appearances during the qualifying for the 1998 finals in France. He scored six goals in seven matches, netting one goal in every match where Croatia scored, including the winning goals in 1–0 victories over Japan in the group stage and Romania in the round of 16. In the quarter-finals against Germany, Šuker scored the final goal in a 3-0 victory. He also brought the team to the doorstep of the Final by scoring the opening goal of the semifinal against France before Lilian Thuram took back the lead for the hosts with his only two international goals and gave France a 2–1 victory for a place in the Final. Šuker scored the winner in a 2–1 victory against the Netherlands in the third-place play-off, leading the Croatian team to their sensational third-place finish in the country's very first World Cup appearance since becoming independent. Šuker won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer, and the Silver Ball as the second most outstanding player after Brazil's Ronaldo.

Mr. Suker was recognized by FIFA as one of the 100 greatest soccer players in history and was named Croatia’s “Golden Player” by UEFA in 2003. Towards the end of his playing career, Šuker opened his own football school, the Davor Šuker Soccer Academy, with training camps in the Croatian capital city of Zagreb as well as a couple of other cities. To date, he still puts time and effort into the youth academy which trains many young athletes with career aspirations.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation ( www.croatiancharities.com ) is an accredited 501 C 3 organization that was formed by members of the Croatian American Community in the New York City area to support organizations, groups, and individuals in need of financial support.

The group is fully funded through the generous donations from individuals, companies and various fund raising events held each year. The foundation members are all volunteers and collectively solicit worthy causes to donate their financial support.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation announced today that it is hosting the 9th Annual charity golf outing and dinner on Monday May 23rd, 2011 at North Hills Country Club and North Hempstead Country Club on Long Island in New York. Net proceeds from the event will benefit the American Cancer Society, Doctors Without Borders, The Cam Neely Foundation, The Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic research and the Croatian Mine Action Centre.

Considered to be one of the most successful Croatian based charity groups in the United States, the CACF has donated several hundred thousand dollars over the years to various charities but has paid particular attention to the demining efforts in Croatia. The 2010 event alone attracted over 230 golfers and 60 companies as well as VIP guests such as soccer legend Davor Suker and the President of Istria, Mr. Ivan Jakovcic.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation is an accredited 501 C3 charity organization formed by members of the Croatian community in New York City. All members of the foundation are volunteers who work together to solicit donations from companies and individuals throughout the community.

Today, December 6, 2010, on this symbolic day when we celebrate the St. Nicholas Day, the representatives of the Croatian-American Golf Foundation brought their gifts to the Republic of Croatia for the fourth time.

In the premises of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, the representative of the Croatian-American Golf Foundation Mr. Željko Matura handed over today a donation cheque to the amount of 50.000 USD to the Vice Prime Minister of the Croatian Government Mrs. Jadranka Kosor. The event was attended by Mr. Zdravko Modrušan, director of the Croatian Mine Action Centre.

With this donation, the total amount of their donation for demining of Croatia shall amount to 200.000 USD. In the previous years, their donations were used for demining of 94.796 m2 of houses and house yards in Novo Selište (Petrinja) in Sisak-Moslavina County, then community of Široka Kula, Gaj hamlet and Lovinac municipality in Lika-Senj County.

The headquarter of the Croatian-American Golf Foundation is in New York and it consists of Croatian emigrants, businessmen and respectable members of the Croatian community in the USA.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation announced today that it is hosting a charity golf outing and dinner on October 4th, 2010 at the Mill River Golf & Country Club on Oyster Bay, Long Island in New York. Net proceeds from the event will benefit the Croatian Cultural Club “Cardinal Stepinac”, a NY based cultural group.

This is the second outing hosted by the Croatian American Charitable Foundation in 2010. In May 2010, the CACF hosted its 8th Annual Golf Outing and Dinner which attracted over 230 golfers and 60 corporate sponsors and proved to be a rousing success. Proceeds from this event benefited the American Cancer Society, Doctors Without Borders, Croatian Mine Action Centre and the Cam Neely Foundation.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation has donated $10,000 to the Dubrovnik General Hospital to help in the renovation of the hospital children’s ward.

"It is our pleasure to help such a worthwhile cause and to help the children of Croatia", said Mr. Tome Nogalo, President of the CACF. The donation was officially presented on August 25th to the Director of the Children’s Hospital, Branko Bazdan. Mr . Ivica Glavinić, secretary of the CACF and one of its long standing members, presented the check to the hospital.

“I am sorry that I could not be there but I want to thank our friends from America. I'm very glad that the Croats outside of Croatia recognized our campaign and help us raise an additional $10,000. ", said former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic.

On July 8th, Mr. Ivanisevic, along with former Wimbledon and US Open Champion John McEnroe, staged a charity match in the ancient city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. The event, organized by LETS DUit!, will provide all net proceeds to benefit the children’s ward of Dubrovnik General Hospital.

“When we heard that Goran and John were staging this event to benefit the children, we were motivated to help the hospital meet it needs.” said Mr. Nogalo.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation ( www.croatiancharities.com ) is an accredited 501 C 3 organization that was formed by members of the Croatian American Community in the New York City area to support organizations, groups, and individuals in need of financial support.

The group is fully funded through the generous donations from individuals, companies and various fund raising events held each year. The foundation members are all volunteers and collectively solicit worthy causes to donate their financial support. The CACF has been proud to donate to various charities, including the American Cancer Society, Adopt-A-Minefield UNA-USA, Croatian Minefield Group, Cam Neely Foundation, Doctors Without Borders, Dubrovnik Children’s Hospital as well as many local charitable groups in the New York area.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Vlado Blaskovic at the age of 65. Vlado was a founding member of the Croatian American Charitable Foundation and Chairman of our Annual Golf Outing. His dedication and generosity were an inspiration to all those involved with the CACF and made our Foundation the success that it is. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

On May 17th, 2010 the Croatian American Charitable Foundation held its 8th Annual Charity Golf Outing and Awards Dinner at North Hills Country and Cherry Valley Club in Long Island, New York. Over 230 golfers and 60 companies help raise money to help the American Cancer Society, Doctors Without Borders, The Cam Neely Foundation and Croatian Mine Action Centre.

“It was our most successful fundraising event ever”, said Tomislav Nogalo, President of the CACF. “We are so grateful to have such a loyal group of people, sponsors and companies that participate in this event every year.”

Considered to be one of the most successful Croatian based charities in North America. the CACF has managed to raise generous amounts of money for various charities throughout the world but has paid particular attention to the demining of Croatia. “Our golf outing has become an international event, with Croatians around the world joining in the festivities”, said David Rosini, board member of the CACF

Some of the special guests this year included soccer legend Davor Suker, President of the Istria Region of Croatia Mr. Ivan Jakovcic and Croatian Consul General of New York Mr. Marijan Grubic. Two days prior to the outing Mr. Suker held a “Mini Clinic” for charity, with all proceeds benefitting the CACF. The event, held at the NYIT school in Westbury, was a tremendous success.

AUCTION AND RAFFLE A ROUSING SUCCESS
With donated items from New York Giants All-Pro Offensive Tackle David Diehl, IDC/Johns Manville and Davor Suker, the CACF held a very lively and successful auction that evening. Some of the items auctioned off were an all expense paid trip to see the New York Jets/Denver Broncos NFL game on October 17th, signed football and jersey from David Diehl and two signed National team jersey’s from Davor Suker. Over 50 items were raffled that evening, including items donated by the New Jersey Nets of the NBA, New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer and the Long Island Lizards of Major League Lacrosse. New York City restaurants Arno, Murano and Triomphe also donated all inclusive dinner packages as well.

EMOTIONS RUN HIGH
Absent and from this year’s event was the Founder and Chairman of the CACF, Mr. Vlado Blaskovic. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Vlado and his family today,” added David Rosini, “Our foundation would not be here today without his support and generosity. We miss him and look forward to seeing him at our 2011 event.”

The event hit an emotional peak during the presentation of checks to each of the charities when Matthew Sikeric came up to accept the donation to the Cam Neely Foundation. Matthew’s brother, Joey, passed away due to brain cancer the previous year. This tragic event inspired the CACF to start donating to the Cam Neely Foundation on behalf of Joey Sikeric. “It was a difficult and emotional moment for us all when Matthew came up to accept our donation”, said Tom Nogalo. “The time and effort put in by our volunteers and committee to make this happen really hits home when moments like this occur. It makes all of realize why we make the effort.”

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation (CACF) announced today that Davor Suker will be holding a “Mini Clinic for Charity” on Saturday, May 15th 2010 at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) campus in Old Westbury, Long Island from 10am-1pm.

The clinic will be for children between the ages of 9-14 and all proceeds will benefit the CACF and its ongoing battle for removing mines in Croatia.

The Davor Suker Soccer Academy ( www.sukeracademy.com ) was established at the end of Mr. Suker playing career with training camps in Zagreb, Croatia and other cities around the world. Over the past 4 years, Mr. Suker has held camps in the US (New York), Canada (Calgary & Toronto), Austria, Switzerland, Croatia and Bosnia & Hercegovina.

In November 2003, to celebrate UEFA's Jubilee, Šuker was selected as the Golden Player of Croatia by the Croatian Footall Federation as their most outstanding player of the past 50 years. In March 2004, he was named by Pelé as one of the 125 greatest living footballers and was the only Croatian player to be added to the list. After the 2002 World Cup, he retired from international football and went on to be a icon for many children around the world, but mostly in Croatia where he was seen as national hero. Šuker won a total of 69 international caps for Croatia, and scored a total of 46 international goals. With 69 international caps, he is currently only the third most-capped player in the Croatian national team, but his goal scoring record of 45 goals for the team will probably remain unbeaten for decades, since the nearest followers have all scored less than 30 goals.

For further information or to reserve space, please contact Zvone Antolos at (212) 904-0422 or David Rosini at (917) 912-1621

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation announced today that soccer legend Davor Suker will be attending the 8th Annual Charity Golf Outing and Awards Dinner on Monday, May 17th 2010 in Long Island, New York. This is the second consecutive year that Mr. Suker will be attending this event that benefits the Croatian Mine Action Centre, American Cancer Society, Cam Neely Foundation and Doctors Without Borders.

In addition, Mr. Suker will be hosting a special one day only soccer clinic on Saturday, May 15th 2010 in Long Island. All proceeds from this event will go to benefit the Croatian American Charitable Foundation.

"We are delighted to have Mr. Suker joining us again and supporting the CACF.", said Val Blaskovic, Chairman of the Golf Outing and founding board member of the CACF. Mr. Blaskovic further added, "Our foundation help many charities but pays particular attention to the removal of mines in Croatia. We are proud to help support this ongoing effort and will continue to do so until this problem is resolved."

Mr. Suker was recognized by FIFA as one of the 100 greatest soccer players in history and was named Croatia’s “Golden Player” by UEFA in 2003. Towards the end of his playing career, Šuker opened his own football school, the Davor Šuker Soccer Academy, with training camps in the Croatian capital city of Zagreb as well as a couple of other cities. To date, he still puts time and effort into the youth academy which trains many young athletes with career aspirations.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation ( www.croatiancharities.com ) is an accredited 501 C 3 organization that was formed by members of the Croatian American Community in the New York City area to support organizations, groups, and individuals in need of financial support.

The group is fully funded through the generous donations from individuals, companies and various fund raising events held each year. The foundation members are all volunteers and collectively solicit worthy causes to donate their financial support. The CACF has been proud to donate nearly $600,000 since its inception to various charities, including the American Cancer Society, Adopt-A-Minefield UNA-USA, Croatian Minefield Group, Cam Neely Foundation, Doctors Without Borders as well as many local charitable groups in the New York area.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation in NYC has donated $5,000 to Doctors Without Borders to help assist in the Haitian Hurricane Relief Effort.

“We thank the CACF in their generous donation to help in the Haiti relief efforts. The money will be used primarily for Surgical Care and Post Operation recovery” says Allison Morris, head of the Donor Services Department of Doctors Without Borders in NYC.

“The CACF is committed in helping those in need after the devastation in Haiti. We wanted to make sure that our donation went to the people that need it most. DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS has an impeccable track record in helping those in need and we are honored to be working with them’, says John Peros, Executive Board member of the CACF.

The CACF is a registered 501 C3 charitable organization based in New York.

Today, Mr. Vladimir Blašković, chairman of the Croatian-American Golf Foundation handed over a donation cheque in the amount of 50.000 USD to Mr. Oto Jungwirth, Director of the Croatian Mine Action Centre. This donation will be used for demining operations of house yards and agricultural areas in Novo Selište settlement near the Town of Petrinja. Handover ceremony was also attended by Mr. Petar Ljubičić, Croatian Consul-General to New York thus confirming his support to Croatian emigrants’ efforts to help their motherland through this donation.

This is third donation from the Croatian-American Golf Foundation that has so far donated the total of 150.000 USD for demining of Croatia. With last year’s funds, the area of the settlement of Široka Kula, Gaj helmet and Lovinac settlement in Lovinac Municipality, both in Lika-Senj County has been demined. The Croatian-American Golf Foundation, based in New York, gathers Croatian emigrants, successful business people and eminent members of the Croat community in the United States

By Josip Bogovic

On May 18th,2009 the Croatian American Charitable Foundation, Inc. put on its 7th Annual golf Outing Event at the North Hills Country Club in Manhasset, NY. The event, which is organized by the smart and giving people of the Croatian Business Community with the support of their business associates and Croatian volunteers, has since its existence given hundreds of thousands of dollars to the American Cancer Society, Adopt-A-mine Field Organization and the Croatian Mine Action Centre (located in Sisak) and has thus elevated itself to being one of the most successful Croatian based fund raising platforms of all time. The outing is done in very cordial and professional level as is demonstrated by its repeatedly strong turnout. This year’s outing in particular was in such demand that the organizers had to rent a second course – the Cherry Hill Golf Course. Two hundred and fifty golfers played in this event, also making it one of the most successful fund-raising events on Long Island. The formula for its success is simple: Organize a charitable event professionally and base it around a sport, in this case golf, that your guests like to play. Provide good food and a festive, relaxed atmosphere.

Tomislav Nogalo, David Rosini, Vladimir Blaskovic, Susan Naletilic and Ivica Glavinic were some of the main organizers of this event along with dozens of other volunteers (including Peter Jurkovic) and committee members. The golf outing has numerous business sponsors (over 60) as can be seen in the charitable foundation’s published book of the event. The main sponsors this year were Johns Manville Corp., IDC Corp., Armitage/USI (Dominick Scotto Pres.), Alltate Insulation Corp. and Silver Star Mercedes. The master of ceremonies was the well spoken and witty John Peros. Special guests included the world famous 1998 World Cup golden boot winner Davor Suker, who was kind enough to auction away some of his memorabilia including autographed soccer balls and shirts. He will be holding a soccer camp in the Metropolitan area in August of this year. Emmy award winner Pete Roadovich helped raise thousands of dollars through his television show “Inside the NFL”. The emotional tone and focus of the event was best encapsulated by Radovich: “My friend and someone I admire as a person in my life and wished that my sons would be like him as they grow up is the 29 year old Joey Sikeric. Joey was an avid soccer player and just an overall wonderful human being who was unfortunate to be stuck with brain cancer. He has been fighting his disease for a number of years with some success, though it’s an ongoing battle, I’m here tonight and we are here tonight to help people like Joey through the work of the American Cancer Society”, said the well spoken and on points sports producer.

“The golf outing is all about the serious business of removing mines and aiding the American Cancer Society in their mission, through the game of golf that so many people love to play,” said Tomislav Nogalo, the Croatian American Charitable Foundation (CACF) President.

A large raffle was also part of the after dinner program during which dinners from restaurants like Arno and Triomphe of NYC, along with a variety of prizes donated by many other donors were raffled off. Also part of the after-dinner activities were the golfing awards.

The best overall performance/score for the event was put in by the foursome of Gerald Maric, Mike Perkovic, Pashk Berisha and Jure Druzic with 14 under par 58. Luigi Romic won closet to the pin. Fifteen thousand dollar checks were given to ACS and Adopt-A –Minefield. As it occurred last year when Vlado Blaskovic flew ro Zagreb and went on to Sisak Island to hand over a $50,000 check to the Croatian Mine Action Centre, a board member will repeat the same deed this year.

The Croatian American Charitable Foundation Organization and golf outing is a brilliant idea executed professionally with a lot of love and compassion for the betterment of us and especially those affected.

On Wednesday, 5 March 2008, the general consul of the Republic of Croatia in New York Mr. Petar Ljubičić handed over a donation cheque on behalf of Mr. Vladimir Blašković, chairman of the Croatian-American Golf Trust Fund from New York in the amount of 50.000 USD to the vice president of the Government of the Republic of Croatia and Minister of Family, Veterans and Intergenerational Solidarity Mrs. Jadranka Kosor.

The ceremony was held in the premises of the Government of the Republic of Croatia in Zagreb and was also attended by the director of the Croatian Mine Action Centre Mr. Oto Jungwirth and manager of the trust fund ‘’Croatia without Mines’’ – trust fund for humanitarian demining of Croatia, Mr. Željko Krešić.

Namely, the Croatian-American Golf Trust Fund has so far donated the total of 100.000 USD for demining of Croatia. With last year’s funds and part of the Croatian state budget funds, the area of the settlement of Široka Kula, Gaj helmet in Lika-Senj County of the size of 23.435 m² has been demined.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Family Affairs, War Veterans and Intergenerational Solidarity, Jadranka Kosor, on Wednesday received the Croatian Consul-General to New York, Petar Ljubicic, who presented her with a USD 50,000 cheque for mine clearance operations in Croatia, the government said in a statement.

The donation from the New York-based Croatian-American Golf Foundation was presented at a meeting which was also attended by the director of the Croatian Mine Action Centre, Oto Jungwirth, and the head of the "Hrvatska bez mina (Croatia Without Mines)" Foundation, Zeljko Kresic

President of the Croatian-American Golf Foundation from New York Mr. Vladimir Blašković visited today the Croatian Mine Action Centre where he was attended by the director Mr. Oto Jungwirth and assistant director Mr. Miljenko Vahtarić. Members of the Foundation that gathers Croatian emigrants, successful businessmen and respectable members of the Croatian community have raised 50.000 USD intended for demining in the Republic of Croatia. Mr. Blašković handed over a cheque to the vice-premier and president of the Board of the trust fund for humanitarian demining "Croatia without Mines" Mrs. Jadranka Kosor who attended Mr. Blašković in Government premises.

During his visit to CROMAC, Mr. Blašković was presented the work of the Centre as well as mine situation in the Republic of Croatia and funding methods. Upon the talks held, Mr. Blašković visited the Scan Centre and expressed his satisfaction with the fact that the emigrants can also contribute to demining of Croatia. He was also presented a proposal of the project t o be financed by donated funds – house lots in the settlement of Gaj in Lički Osi k in Lika-Senj County.

By Josip Bogovic

On May 22 the 4th annual Croatian-American Golf Outing took place at the North Hills Country Club in Manhasset, Long Island. The event was blessed by great weather, by its participants, organizers and volunteers who care about the underlying reason for its existence. The outing was created to raise money for de-mining in Croatia and to fund the efforts of the American Cancer Society. There is perhaps nothing nobler, in our earthly existence than to help our fellow citizens in need.

Members of the executive committee of this not-for-profit organization, which is a part of the Croatia Fund, Inc., are Vladimir Blaskovic, Chairman, Pete Radovich, Honorary Chairman, Vedran J. Nazor Secretary, Tomislav Nogalo, Treasurer, John Belancich, Gerald Maric, Joseph Grgas, Boris Grzic, John Ivica Kajic, John Ivica Glavinic, Susan Naletilic, Vincent Naletilic, Nikola Peneva, David Rosini, Darko Smilovic and Ivan Starcic. To organize an event that includes in excess of fifty players, over 250 dinner guests, a raffle and a book that needed to be published listing the sponsors and other important information, is a large logistical task, not to mention the rules a not-for-profit organization has to deal with. The people who organized it themselves have very busy lives without a moment to spare.

The host for the formal program was the Emmy Award winning CBS sports producer Pete Radovich. With his quick and humorous wit, Radovich is a natural host. He uses his connections in the media and sports worlds to auction very hard to get tickets and events. For example, he auctioned off two pairs of tickets for the upcoming Super Bowl in Miami. Just those four tickets raised over 10 thousand dollars. The folks who won the auction will also receive a grand tour of the event, including a behind the scenes look at the spectacle and a trip to the commentator’s box. Over the years, Radovich has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the above causes.

At dinner were special guests from the Croatian community including the Consul General of Croatia Mr. Petar Ljubicic, who also played a round of golf, and Croatia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Mr. Amir Muharemi. Also in attendance were Fra Ivica Majstorovic and Don Robert Zubovic, as were representatives from the American Cancer Society and Mr. Zach Hudson from the UN organization Adopt-A-Mine Field. This organization matches the contribution given by the Croatian-American Golf Outing Organization.

Mr. Hudson made a detailed speech about the work Adopt-A-Minefield has done in Croatia along with the money it has received from the Croatian-American Golf Outing Organization. “The playgrounds and fields in the village of Medvedi have been cleared with the money donated by last year’s golf outing,” said Zach Hudson. Mr. Hudson also mentioned that there is much more work to be done for there are over five thousand anti-tank mines, five thousand anti-personal mines and over 40,000 unexploded ordinates placed on Croatian soil.

Thanks to all the above mentioned individuals and organizations, and especially to the Croatian business community under the leadership of Vladimir Blaskovic, who are caring and astute enough to make such an event possible. This event is an example of a collective effort with people at their best and all who contributed in some way are worthy of praise for making today a better world.

Tuesday, September 30th over 136 golfers participated in an inaugural Croatian American 2003 Golf Outing. Croatian Americans and their friends raised over $ 20,000 at the Long Island’s Colonial Springs Golf Course to benefit two charities:

- American Cancer Society – “Babe Zaharias Memorial Tournaments of Long Island” This fine organization funds breast and prostate cancer research and is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

- Adopt-A-Minefield - United Nations Association of the USA. U.S. Department of State has taken a lead role by providing matching funds for mine clearing projects in Croatia. There are still more than a million landmines unremoved in Croatia. During the last eight years more than 1034 people have been injured and 410 were killed. Demining is a very long and expensive project and it has a long way to go.

Ms. Beth Sachs of American Cancer Society/Director Babe Zaharias Memorial Tournaments thanked Mr. Vladimir Val Blaskovic, Chairman of the Golf Outing on a $ 10,000 donation. Ms. Nahela Hadi, Adopt-A-Minefield Executive Director was grateful for the $ 10,000 donation Adopt-A-Minefield received.

Over 200 in attendance saw a beautiful example of Croatian Americans of greater New York together with their American friends raise funds for 2 noble causes. They promised to come back next year.

2003 Golf Outing Committee
Executive Committee
Vladimir “Val” Blaskovic - Chairman
Joseph Grgas - Treasurer
Vedran Joseph Nazor - Secretary
Nick Penava, Tom Nogalo, Frank Perkovic,Ivan Starcic
Committee Members
John Belanich, George Druzic, Ilana Gavin, Ivica Kajic, John Kalinic, Gerald Maric, Mladen Marinic, Michael Matura, Mike Perkovic, Romeo Pericic MD, Mario Peruc, Luke Raguz MD, Luigi Romic, Darko Smilovic, Zivko Strika MD, Branko Zivkovic.