Part A:
The first celebration took place on February 15th as a hybrid meeting at a large kitchen in a cohousing complex in Edmonton, with others online. This was a participants’ focused event with AEHS president Kelly Schuler-McDonald as the “emcee” and Thea Williams as the local host. Thea grew up in Australia and moved to Alberta where she studied culinary arts, then had a career as a cooking instructor. Thea was the kama sponsor of the event. Through her recently established small business Uuviht, she sources organic Alberta grown barley, oats, rye and dried yellow peas, then grinds and roasts them for packaging and shipment. She offered trial packages to online registrants. Those present in-person were treated to kama and coffee at the celebration.
Participants were invited to share a memorable Estonian Independence related story. These ranged from light-hearted to emotional.
Honorary Consul Külliva Kangur addressed attendees with a message on behalf of the Estonian government. Rein Pääsuke explained the timeline and history of the events leading up to Estonia’s independence in 1918.
Participants were invited to share a memorable Estonian Independence related story. These ranged from light-hearted to emotional.
AEHS vice-president John Erdman announced that the Estonian Central Council (EKN-ECC) has awarded a silver medal to long time AEHS president Kelly Schuler-McDonald. The actual presentation will take place at a future date as Kelly was not able to travel to Edmonton this day. Kelly expressed gratitude to all involved. Walter and Terri Johanson led the singing of “Mu Isamaa, mu õnn ja rõõm” and “Hoia, Jumal, Eestit”.
Part B:
The 108th anniversary commemoration continued online on the evening of February 24th, hosted by former AEHS vice-president Evelin Fodor. A video of the Estonian national anthem began the event. Evelin read out greetings received from Margus Rava, Ambassador of Estonia to Canada, and shared a video-recording from Margus Tsahkna, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia. AEHS president Kelly Schuler-McDonald welcomed everyone.
Next Evelin mentioned the news about Kelly’s EKN/ECC medal. Kelly expressed gratitude for the recognition and for the support of the EKN, the AEHS, her family and to Helgi Leesment, her mentor. She also spoke about the preciousness of life and freedom, and our gratitude for the tremendous sacrifices made for Estonia’s freedom.
Kelly further shared about AEHS events, highlighting the AEHS collaboration with University of Tartu linguists project and a planned pre-book launch of the AEHS’s recently translated Memories of Estonians in Crimea 1861-1920.
In keeping with this year’s theme, everyone was encouraged to wear a traditional Estonian hat or headdress, adding a festive and cultural touch to the two-part commemoration.
Evelin Fodor showcased the outstanding photographs submitted to the AEHS 2025 Photo Contest and announced the three winners selected by the volunteer judging panel, along with the People’s Choice award recipient. Everyone was encouraged to participate by voting for their top three selections. Notably, the first-place winner in both categories was “Cranes Take Flight in Sri Lanka,” captured by Judy Ustina during her travels in South Asia. All submitted photographs can be viewed at www.AEHS.ca
The celebration also featured a musical greeting from Estonia performed by Maribel Muusika, which added a lively and engaging touch to the program. Participants enjoyed an online game of Two Truths and a Lie, which led to a discussion about Estonia’s Winter Olympic medals and medalists.
In keeping with this year’s theme, everyone was encouraged to wear a traditional Estonian hat or headdress, adding a festive and cultural touch to the two-part commemoration.
The Alberta Estonian Heritage Society expresses appreciation to the hosts of our double event, our members and supporters: Estonian Foundation of Canada, Estonian Central Committee in Canada and the Government of Estonia.
Helgi Leesment, Evelin Fodor, Kelly Schuler-McDonald
