BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//EstoSite - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:EstoSite X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.estosite.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for EstoSite REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240523T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240523T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240522T155937Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240522T161051Z UID:10620-1716485400-1716489000@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Lecture: Sofi Oksanen to Speak at Stanford University DESCRIPTION:The Helena Brandt Visiting Scholar Program Inaugural Lecture \n\n\n\nwith Sofi Oksanen\, the internationally-acclaimed\, best-selling author of a number of works of historical fiction\, including the novel Purge (2008)\, a tale of three generations of Estonian women and human trafficking\, as well as Stalin’s Cows (2003) and When the Doves Disappeared (2012). \n\n\n\nRSVP Here: https://bit.ly/3wFTbgi \n\n\n\nPhoto credit: Toni Härkönen URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/lecture-sofi-oksanen-to-speak-at-stanford-university/ LOCATION:Levinthal Hall\, Stanford University\, 424 Santa Teresa St\, Stanford\, CA 94305\, Stanford\, California\, 94305\, United States CATEGORIES:Culture,Estonia,Estonian Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/sofi-oksanen-may-23-stanford.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240515T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240515T083000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240426T051405Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240514T150610Z UID:10448-1715761800-1715761800@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Symposium on Opportunities with Stanford University and Estonia DESCRIPTION:Vabamu (Estonia)\, Stanford University Libraries\, and the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs host this symposium on May 15\, 2024 to explore existing and new collaboration opportunities between Estonia and Stanford University.  \n\n\n\nYou will have a chance to learn about the world-leading university\, its Baltic Studies program\, and student and scholar exchange between Stanford and Estonia. The symposium also introduces Vabamu’s international activities and Vabamu Global Conversations strand. \n\n\n\nWe look forward to welcoming everyone who is interested in collaboration with Stanford University\, including government officials\, Estonian scientific community and potential fellowship applicants\, members of memory institutions and the start-up community. This is an in-person event. See program below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nProgram \n\n\n\n3.30pm Estonian time \n\n\n\nOpening words by Jonatan Vseviov\, Secretary General at Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia \n\n\n\n3.40pm Introduction to Vabamu’s international activities by Kadri Paju\, Stanford Global Project Manager at Vabamu \n\n\n\n3.45pm Stanford and Estonia by Michael Keller\, Vice Provost and University Librarian\, Stanford University \n\n\n\n4.00pm Stanford-Estonia fellowships and internships with Ralf-Martin Soe\, Anna-Maria Osula and Marek Tamm\, Global Digital Governance and Short-Term Research fellowship alumni \n\n\n\n4.15pm Looking into the Future by Luukas Ilves\, Special Advisor at Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications of Estonia \n\n\n\n4.25pm Business opportunities in the USA and Closing Remarks by Andrew Thompson\, Kistler-Ritso Foundation \n\n\n\n“Curated cocktails” where guests have the opportunity to talk to the presenters in designated areas and ask about the following topics: Stanford Fellowships and internships (with Liisi Esse); Business opportunities in the USA (with Andrew Thompson); Stanford University (with Michael Keller); Vabamu international collaboration (with Kadri Paju) \n\n\n\n5.15pm Optional tour of Vabamu’s permanent exhibition  \n\n\n\nMore information on 2025 Stanford Fellowships can be found here: https://vabamu.ee/en/news/2025fellowships/ URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/stanford-university-estonia-symposium/ LOCATION:Vabamu\, Toompea 8b\, Tallinn\, Estonia CATEGORIES:Education,Estonian Culture,Opportunities END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240514T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240514T133000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240514T142309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240514T162607Z UID:10589-1715693400-1715693400@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Online event: The Legacy of Juri Lotman in Tartu\, Estonia and the World DESCRIPTION:This online program hosted by the New York Public Library will celebrate Tartu\, Estonia as a 2024 European Capital of Culture\, Tartu 2024 including luminaries of worldwide interest like Juri Lotman. The celebration will take us to memorable places in Tartu that are connected to the cultural heritage and legacy of this unique man and his city. \n\n\n\nSpeakers include Merit Maran\, Elen Lotman\, Peeter Torop. Read more about them below. \n\n\n\nPlease register to receive Zoom link to join! \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister here \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nJuri Lotman (1922-1993) was an internationally renowned intellectual and scholar. Born to Ukrainian Jewish parents in Leningrad\, he escaped the ongoing wave of antisemitism\, culminating in the “Doctors’ Plot”\, by finding refuge in Tartu\, within the safety of ancient walls of its university. Although Estonia was also occupied by the Soviet Union at the time\, the environment was considerably more Western and Lotman didn’t experience hostility to his ethnic background. \n\n\n\nAs his academic career developed at the University of Tartu\, Lotman became the key figure in cultural semiotics. Well loved by his students and internationally respected for his works\, Lotman went beyond the academe to have his own program on the national TV and also wrote extensively on cinema. In the 2020s\, after the celebrations of his centenary\, Lotman’s intellectual legacy is still relevant and exciting – as is his life story. \n\n\n\nSpeakers include Merit Maran\, Elen Lotman\, Peeter Torop. Read more about them below. \n\n\n\nThis online program is a result of cooperation between the New York Public Library and Estonian Writers Union which was mediated by the Tartu 2024 European Capital of Culture Foundation and the Consulate General of Estonia in New York. In 2022\, the Tartu branch of the Estonian Writers Union produced a webcast on Estonian polymath Uku Masing for the World Languages Collection of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library at the NYPL\, with its premiere and online Q&A on April 26\, 2022. That webcast can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z19HnOPox-U. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpeakers include Merit Maran\, Elen Lotman\, Peeter Torop. \n\n\n\nABOUT THE SPEAKERS\n\n\n\nPeeter Torop\, PhD – Professor of Semiotics of Culture at the University of Tartu. Torop expanded the scope of the semiotic study of translation to include intratextual\, intertextual\, and extratextual translation and stressing the productivity of the notion of translation in general semiotics. He is also a co-editor of the journal Sign Systems Studies\, the oldest international semiotic periodical. As a student of Lotman himself\, Torop shares his memories of Lotman as a teacher and mentor\, ever in search of fresh insights. \n\n\n\nMerit Maran (Rickberg)\, PhD – Head of the Juri Lotman Semiotics Repository at the University of Tallinn. Maran was the main curator of Juri Lotman 100 centenary celebrations in 2022 and defended her PhD thesis\, “Towards Complexity Thinking with Juri Lotman: Modelling Cultural Dynamics in Educational Systems” in 2023. Dr. Maran focuses on the contemporary and ongoing relevance of Lotman’s approach to complexity in cultural systems. \n\n\n\nElen Lotman\, PhD – Associate Professor of Film Arts\, Baltic Film\, Media and Arts School. An award-winning cinematographer\, director and lecturer\, Elen Lotman is a granddaughter of Juri Lotman and has also translated his works on film into Estonian. Sharing a more personal side of her grandfather\, she tells of her childhood full of stories\, fun and discovery\, as well as Juri Lotman’s daily habits and love for Tartu. \n\n\n\nThis webcast has been made possible by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia and the Estonian Ministry of Culture.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAll programs are subject to change or cancellation. \n\n\n\nAssistive Listening and ASL \n\n\n\nASL interpretation and real-time (CART) captioning available upon request. Please submit your request at least two weeks in advance by emailing accessibility@nypl.org. \n\n\n\nNYPL The New York Public Library \n\n\n\nEesti Kirjanike Liit / Kultuuriministeerium \n\n\n\n#JURILOTMAN \n\n\n\n#ESTONIA#Tartu2024 URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/online-event-the-legacy-of-juri-lotman-in-tartu-estonia-and-the-world/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Culture,Estonia,Estonian Culture,Online Discussion END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240514T060000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240514T060000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240510T210137Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240513T212431Z UID:10514-1715666400-1715666400@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Conference: "Security and Defence in the Baltic Sea Region" DESCRIPTION:The Estonian World Council (ÜEKN) in collaboration with the Estonian Embassy in Helsinki and the Network of Estonian Organisations in Finland (EOVS) hosts the hybrid conference\, “Security and Defence in the Baltic Sea Region” on Tuesday\, May 14\, 2024 (starting 13:00 Helsinki time / 6 am Eastern US) at the Embassy of Estonia in Helsinki\, Finland.  \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nThe conference will be livestreamed here and also by Estonia’s national broadcaster ERR \, website globalestonian.com and by Finnish media. The event will also be made available for later viewing. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nThe conference aims to foster a deeper understanding of the current and emerging security challenges within the Baltic Sea region. Topics of discussion include the implications of Russian aggression and disinformation\, the role of NATO in ensuring regional security\, and strategies for civil defence preparedness. The conference will be available for post viewing on EANC’s YouTube channel\, ERR website\, and the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage\, as well as on globalestonian.com.  \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nConference program is as follows: \n\n\n\nConference moderator – Reet Marten Sehr\, Chair Estonian World Council foreign relations committee\, Chair\, Estonian Central Council in Canada \n\n\n\n13:00 – Introductory remarks \n\n\n\n• Sven Sakkov\, Estonian Ambassador to Finland  \n\n\n\n• Sirle Sööt\, Chair\, Estonian World Council\, Association of Estonians in Sweden \n\n\n\n• Margus Tsahkna\, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Estonia (Livestream) \n\n\n\n13:30 – Introduction of keynote speaker by Tuuli-Emily Liivat\, Global Estonian Youth Network \n\n\n\n• Keynote: Douglas Hickey\, US Ambassador to the Republic of Finland \n\n\n\n14:00 – Panel discussion: “NATO’s Role in Baltic Sea Region Security” \n\n\n\n• Martin Roger\, Director-General for NATO and Trans-Atlantic Relations\, Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs  \n\n\n\n• Joakim Paasikivi\, Lieutenant Colonel\, Swedish Defence University \n\n\n\n• Andres Kasekamp\, Professor of History\, Chair of Estonian Studies\, Munk School of Global Affairs\, University of Toronto \n\n\n\n• Moderator Märt Vesinurm\, Network of Estonian Organisations in Finland \n\n\n\n15:30 – Keynote: Jessikka Aro Finnish journalist and writer\, author of “Putin’s Army” and“Putin’s Trolls”  \n\n\n\n16:15 – Panel discussion: “Civil Preparedness and Disinformation” \n\n\n\n• Jay Janzen\, Strategic Communications Director (J10) at NATO \n\n\n\n• Jakub Kalensky\, Senior fellow\, Atlantic Council Eurasia Centre\, former Deputy Director of COI Hybrid Influence \n\n\n\n• Marko Mihkelson\, Member of Estonian Parliament\, Chair of Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee \n\n\n\n• Moderator Marcus Kolga\, President\, DisInfoWatch\, Fellow McDonald Laurier Institute\, Central and Eastern European Council in Canada \n\n\n\n17:15 – Closing Remarks – Ilona Kolberg\, Network of Estonian Organisations in Finland URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/hybrid-conference-security-and-defence-in-the-baltic-sea-region/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Education,Government of Estonia,Online Discussion,Security,Security & Baltic Cooperation,Virtual gathering ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Cover-sec2024-1920x1080-live-correct.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T090000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240426T043207Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240513T212810Z UID:10428-1714726800-1714726800@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Stanford University Lecture: Cultural and Philosophical Roots of Russian Totalitarianism DESCRIPTION:Many Western assessments of Russian totalitarianism depart from the premises that although the country has no democratic tradition\, the basic ideas about the state and the political subject current in Russian society are nonetheless the same as what Western socio-political discourses operate with. The goal of this lecture is to show that this is not the case. Russian totalitarianism has longstanding cultural roots based on the idea of historical messianism and national uniqueness (“the Russian soul”)\, which permeated also the modernizing discourses that developed in Russia\, under the influence of Hegel\, during the latter half of the 19th century and led to the establishment of the Bolshevist regime. As a result\, all influential Russian political ideologies have jettisoned the citizenship-based political visions that derive from Enlightenment ideals and advocate instead a theory of the political subject that must find its self-realization in its sacrificial commitment to the Russian/Communist idea. In combination\, these circumstances have given rise to both the Russian totalitarian doctrine and a society that actually sees itself in its terms.   \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRein Raud is the Distinguished Professor of Asian and Cultural Studies at the School of Humanities\, Tallinn University. His circle of research interests is broad and ranges from cultural semiotics and sociology to process philosophy and theories of the subject on the one hand\, and various aspects of Asian and Western cultural history on the other. His academic books include Being in Flux: A Post-Anthropocentric Ontology of the Self (Polity\, 2021)\, Asian Worldviews: Religions\, Philosophies\, Political Theories (Wiley-Blackwell 20121)\, Meaning in Action: Outline of an Integral Theory of Culture (Polity 2016) and Practices of Selfhood (together with Zygmunt Bauman\, Polity 2015). \n\n\n\nRSVP Here \n\n\n\nVisit this website for more information \n\n\n\nMore info: creeesinfo@stanford.edu URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/stanford-university-lecture-presentation-talk/ LOCATION:Stanford University\, Encina Commons\, Room 123\, 615 Crothers Way\, California\, 94305 CATEGORIES:Community ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/the-cultural-and-philosophical-roots-of-russian-totalitarianism_45933447940138-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240502T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240502T090000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240430T025033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240430T204016Z UID:10476-1714640400-1714640400@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Global Estonian Virtual Forum DESCRIPTION:The Foreign Ministry’s 7th virtual forum for Estonians worldwide will be held May 2 at 9 a.m. Eastern (6 a.m. Pacific). \n\n\n\nThis time\, the Forum looks at opportunities in Estonian available to young people of Estonian origin living abroad\, Estonia is a land that is located on the coast of the Baltic Sea amidst forests and bogs\, and is growing unicorns at a heady pace. We will look at the present and peek into the future. We are starting with a new format – a video postcard of the community. The forum is moderated by Ellen Valter\, the soul and leader of KESKUS\, the International Estonian Centre in Toronto\, and music will be provided by musician and poet EiK\, who just won the popular vote of the Language Achievement Award. \n\n\n\nThe virtual forum will be translated into English and Russian. \n\n\n\nParticipate to be entered into the prize drawing: Win a round-trip plane ticket for two to Estonia\, plus two nights of hotel accommodation in Tallinn. The drawing will be held on May 10 at 12.00 Estonian time. \n\n\n\nPARTICIPATION LINK:https://worksup.com/app?id=FOORUM24 \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nProgramme \n\n\n\n15.45 \n\n\n\n\nWatch a live stream from an Estonian nature camera\n\n\n\n\n16.00 \n\n\n\n\nIntroduction by Ellen Valter\n\n\n\nWords of welcome by Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jonatan Vseviov\n\n\n\nTartu – European Capital of Culture 2024\n\n\n\nPanel ‘Estonia as an opportunity’ (Rebeka Dronia\, Kristi Marika Lampi\, William Persson)\n\n\n\nFirst-hand experiences from the private IT school kood/Jõhvi (Egon Saks with his wife Cristina)\n\n\n\nMusic by EiK\n\n\n\n\n17.00 \n\n\n\n\nEstonia is searching for whom – both today and 10 years from now? (Work in Estonia\, Susanna Vatter)\n\n\n\nEstonia as the breeding ground for unicorns (Startup Estonia\, Eve Peeterson)\n\n\n\nVideo postcard from the Estonian community in Switzerland  \n\n\n\nMarin Mõttus talks to Ellen Valter\n\n\n\nMusical finale by EiK\n\n\n\nEstimated end of the event at 17.45/18.00\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpeakers \n\n\n\nJonatan VseviovSecretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs \n\n\n\nRebeka Droniaan Estonian raised in Namibia \n\n\n\nKristi Marika Lampian Estonian raised in the USA \n\n\n\nWilliam Perssonan Estonian raised in Sweden \n\n\n\nEgon Saksstudent of the IT school kood/Jõhvi \n\n\n\nSusanna VatterWork in Estonia \n\n\n\nEve PeetersonStartup Estonia \n\n\n\nEllen Valter (Moderator)leader of Toronto’s International Estonian Centre KESKUS \n\n\n\nMarin MõttusSpecial Diplomatic Representative of Global Estonia \n\n\n\nMusic by EiKmusician and poet \n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nThe virtual forum’s prize drawing for plane tickets and more \n\n\n\n\nEveryone who watches the virtual forum for Estonians across the globe on 2 May 2024 at 16.00 Estonian time can enter a prize draw and win return plane tickets for two to Estonia.\n\n\n\nThe prize draw is held on 10 May at 12.00 Estonian time\, and if you register for subsequent viewing of the virtual forum\, you can still enter the draw until 9 May at 23.00 Estonian time.\n\n\n\nThe flight must take place during the 2024 calendar year.\n\n\n\nThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact the winner and will put them in touch with the travel agency in Tallinn where the tickets must be bought (they can be replaced with bus\, ferry or train tickets).\n\n\n\nThe prize includes a two-night stay at the Hotel in Tallinn.\n\n\n\nWe are also offering the winner a tour of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while they are in Estonia.\n\n\n\nAs it is a big world and plane ticket fees vary enormously\, there is a cap on the ticket price.\n\n\n\nPlane ticket price cap: economy class within Europe up to €600\, rest of the world up to €1200.\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nFacebook event: https://fb.me/e/4XnZpeFs6 \n\n\n\nParticipation link: https://worksup.com/app?id=FOORUM24 \n\n\n\nProgramme and Prize Draw: https://globalestonian.com/en/news/virtual-forum-estonians-across-globe-will-be-held-may-2 URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/global-estonian-virtual-forum-7/ LOCATION:New York ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/vm-2024-eng.png.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240427T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240427T100000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240418T191803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240418T191806Z UID:10352-1714212000-1714212000@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Talgud (Spring Clean Up)@ Lakewood Estonian House DESCRIPTION:SPRING CLEAN UP! We look forward to seeing you on Saturday\, April 27th! Volunteers are needed to maintain and clean the Lakewood Estonian House and grounds\, to ensure it is clean and comfortable for our members and guests. \n\n\n\nJoin the Lakewood Estonian community\, and do your part to keep our Estonian House looking its best! \n\n\n\nAll are welcome. Bring your own work gloves\, rake\, and a good mood. Lunch will be provided! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKUTSUME TALGUTELE! MEIL ON ABI VAJA! \n\n\n\nKohtume laupäeval\, 27. aprillil\, algusega kell 10 am. Veedame kogu päeva koos! Pakume lõunasööki!Ootame vabatahtlikke abilisi\, et teha Eesti Maja ja ümbruse puhtaks lehtedest ja prahist. Ka maja seest on vaja aknaid pesta jne. \n\n\n\nPalun tulge ja osalege Lakewoodi Eesti kogukonnas ja tehke oma osa\, et hoida Eesti Maja ilus ja korras.Kõigi abi on teretulnud. Kui tuled võta töökindad\, reha ja hea tuju kaasa! URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/talgud-spring-clean-up-lakewood-estonian-house/ LOCATION:Lakewood Estonian House/ Lakewoodi Eesti Maja\, 4 Cross Street & E Veterans Hwy\, Jackson\, Connecticut\, United States CATEGORIES:Community,Estonian Culture,Family activities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG-3793.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Lakewood Estonian Association - Lakewoodi Eesti %C3%9Ching":MAILTO:lakewoodestonianhouse@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240427T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240427T090000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240420T132500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240426T052850Z UID:10455-1714208400-1714208400@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Talgud: Spring Clean-up @ Connecticut Estonian Grounds DESCRIPTION:Connecticut Estonian Society Estonian land (Eesti maa) spring cleanup (Talgud) day \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Connecticut Estonian Society invites members\, friends\, and supporters – all are welcome to pitch in as the community gets the beloved Eesti Maa grounds back in shape for events\, picnics\, tournaments\, activities and more. \n\n\n\nKõik on teretulnud! \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nThe Eesti Maa spring cleanup day will be on Saturday\, April 27th (rain date April 28th)\, starting at 9:00 AM\, at the Eesti Maa\, 25 Times Farms Road\, Andover\, CT 06232. Kristian Kõiva\, the Eesti Maa manager\, will direct the cleanup. \n\n\n\nPlease bring the necessary tools – rakes\, shovels\, saws\, leaf blowers\, hedge clippers\, work gloves\, etc. But if you lack such tools\, come anyway because tools are always available. \n\n\n\nCarol Klammer will provide hot\, homemade soup. Kristi Rakfeldt will supply build-your-own sandwich items. Thus\, soup\, sandwiches\, and hot coffee will be served for lunch! URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/talgud-spring-clean-up-connecticut-estonian-grounds/ LOCATION:Connecticut Estonian Grounds – Connecticut Eesti Maa\, 25 Times Farm Roa\, Andover\, Connecticut\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/437094180_10231927178832261_6040808129405028419_n.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Estonian Society - Connecticuti Eesti Selts":MAILTO:estoniansocietyct@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240426T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240426T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240418T192811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240418T192947Z UID:10357-1714154400-1714154400@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Keelekohvik Lakewoodi Eesti Majas DESCRIPTION:Keelekohvik on mõeldud kõigile inimestele\, kes oskavad või soovivad õppida eesti keelt\, harjutada kõnekeelt\, saada juurde kõnejulgust\, ning teha seda vabas vormis ja meeldivas keskkonnas. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/keelekohvik-lakewoodi-eesti-majas/ LOCATION:Lakewood Estonian House/ Lakewoodi Eesti Maja\, 4 Cross Street & E Veterans Hwy\, Jackson\, Connecticut\, United States CATEGORIES:Community,Estonian Culture,Family activities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lakewood-keelekohvik.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Lakewood Eesti %C3%9Ching / Lakewood Estonian Association":MAILTO:helica40@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240426T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240428T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240419T174648Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240424T181507Z UID:10385-1714089600-1714348799@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Estonian Consular Mission to Boston Area DESCRIPTION:The Estonian Consul in New York will conduct a consular mission to Boston\, MA on April 26th\, 27th\, and April 28th. Consular services are available at the following locations and times: \n\n\n\nHonorary Consul’s office: 2222 Centre Street\, West Roxbury\, Boston\, 02132 MA \n\n\n\n Friday\, April 26\,1:00 – 4:00 pm \n\n\n\n Saturday\, April 27\, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm \n\n\n\nBoston Estonian School: Congregational Church\, 15 Princeton Street\, North Chelmsford\, MA 01863 \n\n\n\n Sunday\, April 28\, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm \n\n\n\nNote: Passport & ID card renewal applications can also be done by mail or at the self-service portal of the Estonian Police Board (https://www.politsei.ee/en/)\, if your fingerprints on file are less than 6 years old. \n\n\n\nYou may update your fingerprints with the consul even if you do not need to renew a document at this time. This could save you a future trip to New York or Washington\, DC\, should you need to renew a document in the next few years and discover that your fingerprints are or will be outdated. This service is free of charge. \n\n\n\nPlease see updated consular service fees as of April 3. https://newyork.mfa.ee/state-fees/.  \n\n\n\nPayments during consular mission must be made in cash or check – no credit cards will be accepted\, as we don’t have a card terminal. \n\n\n\nTo schedule an appoint\, please contact: \n\n\n\nMs. Anne-Reet Ilves Annunziata\, PhD \n\n\n\nEstonian Honorary Consul in Boston for Massachusetts & Rhode Island \n\n\n\n2222 Centre Street\, West Roxbury\, MA 02132 \n\n\n\nTel: + 1 (617) 543-9234\, e-mail: annereet@yahoo.com URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/estonian-consular-mission-to-boston-area/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Estonia,Government of Estonia END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T170000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240410T045400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240426T045508Z UID:10438-1713891600-1713891600@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Induction of Estonian Erika Puussaar into Cleveland Hall of Fame DESCRIPTION:Estonian Ambassador to the United States\, Kristjan Prikk\, will induct Estonian Erika Puussaar into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame. \n\n\n\nErika earned this honor through her long involvement with the Cleveland Cultural Garden Federation as a Member of the Board\, as well as being the President of the Estonian Cultural Garden. She has always been a visible Estonian\, supporting outreach to area libraries to help introduce Estonia to the Greater Cleveland community. She was invited to share the Grand Marshall role\, with Latvian and Lithuanian leaders in the Ukraine Independence Day Parade in Cleveland. \n\n\n\nCleveland area Estonians are excited to see one of their own receive this honor. The induction will take place at Windows on the River at 5pm April 23\, 2024. \n\n\n\nCleveland International Hall of Fame2024 Induction Event Details\n\n\n\nThe 2024 induction event will be held at Windows on the River on Tuesday April 23\, 2024.  Parking is available in the huge lot adjacent to the building. \n\n\n\nDoors will open at 5:00 PM for cocktails (cash bar) and networking and the event will begin promptly at 6 PM. \n\n\n\nDress is business casual but we encourage attendees to dress in traditional cultural or ethnic dress! \n\n\n\nDinner will be served after the Color Guard and National Anthem and opening remarks from our Master of Ceremonies Russ Mitchell from WKYC-TV.  A few distinguished leaders will also give some brief remarks and then dinner will be served. \n\n\n\nThe inductions will take place immediately after dinner. A special person will give a few remarks about the inductee and then the honoree will give his/her acceptance speech. \n\n\n\n2024 Class\n\n\n\nThe 2024 Class was chosen unanimously by the committee from almost 100 worthy nominations.  In alphabetical order: \n\n\n\n\nDona Brady\n\n\n\nAmbassador Edward Crawford\n\n\n\nVeronica Dahlberg\n\n\n\nDr. Eugene Jordan (posthumous)\n\n\n\nErika Puussaar\n\n\n\nJohnny Wu\n\n\n\n\nFor ticket information contact Debbie Hanson at (216) 406-6594.For additional info contact Toomas Tubalkain\, toomast1910@gmail.com URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/induction-of-estonian-erika-puussaar-into-cleveland-hall-of-fame/ LOCATION:Windows on the River\, 2000 Sycamore Street\, Cleveland\, Ohio\, 44113 CATEGORIES:Community,Culture,Estonia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/crowd-teevi-oanh-erika_hz.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cleveland International Hall of Fame":MAILTO:info@clevelandinternationalhalloffame.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240419T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240422T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240315T191913Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240319T131511Z UID:10250-1713519000-1713801600@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Estonian Consular Mission to Florida DESCRIPTION:The Estonian Consul in New York will conduct a two-day consular mission in Florida on April 19 – 20\, and April 22 – 23. 15. All consular services other than visa applications can be addressed at these times. \n\n\n\nApril 19-20\, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm in Crystal River: 3939 North Eagle Point\, Crystal River\, FL 34428 \n\n\n\nApril 22-23\, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm in Miami: 1384 SW 18 St\, Miami\, FL 33145 \n\n\n\nNote: Applications for passport and ID card renewals can be submitted by mail or at the self-service portal of the Estonian Police Board if your fingerprints on file are less than 6 years old. \n\n\n\nIn a planning-ahead move\, this visit is a good opportunity to update your fingerprints on file with the consul\, should you need to renew a document in the next few years. This proactive step could save you a future trip to New York or Washington! The service is free of charge. \n\n\n\nPlease note: Fees will change at the beginning of April\, those utilizing the mission in Chicago should see fees listed for after April 3 https://newyork.mfa.ee/state-fees/. Payments during consular mission must be made by cash or check – no credit cards will be accepted\, as we do not have a card processing terminal. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo schedule an appoint\, please contact \n\n\n\nMs.  Kaie Tiina Põhi Latterner\, kaiet@earthlink.net\, phone 612-669-9765 to schedule an appointment in Crystal River\, FL. \n\n\n\nEstonian Consulate General in New York\, nyconsulate@mfa.ee\, phone 212-883-0636 to schedule an appointment in Miami\, FL. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/consular-mission-fl-2024april/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Government of Estonia END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240414T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240415T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240313T021350Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240313T031723Z UID:10237-1713052800-1713225599@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Estonian Consular Mission to Chicago Area DESCRIPTION:The Estonian Consul in New York will conduct a two-day consular mission in the Chicago area on April 14 and 15. All consular services other than visa applications can be addressed at these times. \n\n\n\nSunday\, April 14\, 9:30 am- 4:00 pm: @ Chicago Estonian House\, 14700 Estonian Lane\, Riverwoods IL \n\n\n\nMonday\, April 15\, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM @ 678 Foxdale Ave\, Winnetka IL \n\n\n\nNote: Applications for passport and ID card renewals can be submitted by mail or at the self-service portal of the Estonian Police Board if your fingerprints on file are less than 6 years old. \n\n\n\nYou may update your fingerprints on file with the consul\, if you will need to renew a document in the next few years and your fingerprints are or will be outdated by then. This proactive step could save you a future trip to New York or Washington! The service is free of charge. \n\n\n\nPlease note: Fees will change at the beginning of April\, those utilizing the mission in Chicago should see fees listed for after April 3 https://newyork.mfa.ee/state-fees/. Payments during consular mission must be made by cash or check – no credit cards will be accepted\, as we do not have a card processing terminal. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo schedule an appoint\, please contact Honorary Consul Mr. Siim Sööt\, tel. +1 (847) 372-7560 to schedule an appointment with the Consul for services\, such as passport and ID renewals\, first-time applications and updating your fingerprints \n\n\n\nFirst-time applicants may also call to inquire about how to apply. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/estonian-consular-mission-to-chicago-area/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Chicago,Estonia,Government of Estonia END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240408T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240412T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240305T035310Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240322T124357Z UID:10168-1712534400-1712966399@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Baltic Advocacy Days 2024 DESCRIPTION:Join Estonians\, Latvians Lithuanians\, supporters and friends at this year’s Baltic Advocacy Days. Your voice matters\, so be sure to participate in-person or via virtual meetings over Zoom. Registration deadline March 25. \n\n\n\nBaltic Advocacy Days consists of meetings coordinated by the Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) between constituents and offices of the United States Congress to further the ties between the U.S. and the Baltic states. Meetings typically last approximately 20 -30 minutes with a goal of at least two-three meetings per participant.  \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\nVirtual meetings will be scheduled from Monday to Wednesday\, April 8 -10. In-person meetings will take place on April 11-12 (Thursday).  \n\n\n\nOur advocacy efforts for 2024 will be focused on these points: \n\n\n\n•    Security assistance to Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania (Baltic Security Initiative\, Foreign Military Financing\, etc.) \n\n\n\n•    Ukraine security assistance necessary to help it defend itself against Russia \n\n\n\n•    Maintaining a strong NATO alliance and transatlantic relations  \n\n\n\n•    Other Ukraine-related legislation \n\n\n\nHelping defend Ukraine is to defend Baltic security\, U.S. interests and democracy around the world. Anyone interested in strengthening U.S.-Baltic relations and advocating for transatlantic security is encouraged to register or at least reach out (contacts listed below) for more information. No prior knowledge is required\, as talking points will be emailed to participants. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration is open for Baltic Advocacy Days! Now is the opportunity to make your voice heard and to help speak out on issues of interest and concern to the Baltic American community. \n\n\n\n\nRegister today\n\n\n\n\nOur advocacy this year will be focused on strengthening U.S. Baltic relations through the Baltic Security Initiative and ensuring Ukraine has the funding needed to defend against the Russian invasion. \n\n\n\nApril 8 – Virtual Meetings \n\n\n\nApril 9 – Virtual Meetings \n\n\n\nApril 10 – Virtual Meetings \n\n\n\nApril 11 – In person meetings and reception (Washington DC) \n\n\n\nApril 12 – In person and virtual meetings \n\n\n\nWe encourage anyone interested in strengthening U.S.-Baltic relations to register. No prior knowledge is required! \n\n\n\nYou may register by filling out the google form through the QR code or through this link: https://forms.gle/Nd9aiNR4H3KmqBcK9 \n\n\n\nWe look forward to seeing you during Baltic Advocacy Days! URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/baltic-advocacy-days-2024/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Advocacy,Security,Security and Baltic Cooperation,Virtual gathering ORGANIZER;CN="Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC)":MAILTO:jbanc@jbanc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240405T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240405T140000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240305T045359Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240323T211658Z UID:10177-1712325600-1712325600@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Conference: 75 YEARS of FREE ESTONIAN WORD – The Art of Connecting Past and Future. DESCRIPTION:For 75 years\, the newspaper Vaba Eesti Sõna (Free Estonian Word) has been a faithful companion to the Estonian-American community\, keeping Estonian families in far-away places and also those close by connected\, and abreast of community news\, current events\, cultural happenings\, social announcements\, and everyday helps with Estonian traditions and homelife. In today´s unsettled world\, community journalism is more important than ever. \n\n\n\nThis important anniversary conference will discuss the role played by Vaba Eesti Sõna in keeping alive hope and the fight for restored independence Estonia and its part in connecting the Estonian community abroad. We will also discuss the chronicle’s continued relevance\, as Estonians abroad continue to champion Estonian culture\, values\, and interests in their every day lives. \n\n\n\nJoin new and veteran newspaper editors\, journalists\, staff\, contributors\, and supporters for an intelligent conference on the life and times of Estonians in America through the pages of the Vaba Eesti Sõna. \n\n\n\nWe look forward to seeing you in person\, at 2 pm at the New York Estonian House. Pre-registration not required\, donations welcomed. \n\n\n\nIf you cannot attend in person\, we encourage you to use the link below to attend virtually via Zoom. \n\n\n\n\nTo attend virtually\, register here \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConference \n\n\n\nSession 1: The role of the Estonian-American newspaper Vaba Eesti Sõna in keeping alive hope for the restored independence of the Republic of Estonia and nourishing the spirit of idealism. \n\n\n\nSession 2: Staying the Course: Connecting Estonian-American families and communities. \n\n\n\nThis conference and small reception celebrating Vaba Eesti Sõna coverage\, contributors\, and community offers a wonderful lead into the Estonian Cultural Days Festival 2024. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVaba Eesti Sõna sünnipäeva konverents / Free Estonian Word Anniversary Conference\n\n\n\nReede\, 5. aprill 2024\, kell 14:00 – 17:30 EDT / Friday\, April 5th\, 2024\, 2 pm – 5:30 pm EDT \n\n\n\nNew Yorgi Eesti Maja / NY Estonian House\, 243 E 34th St\, New York\, NY 10016 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKutsume Teid ameerikaeestluse kandja Vaba Eesti Sõna sünnipäeva konverentsile VABA EESTI SÕNA 75: KUNST SIDUDA MINEVIKKU JA TULEVIKKU reedel\, 5. aprillil algusega kell 14:00 New Yorgi Eesti Maja sinises saalis \n\n\n\n\nKuidas on hoidnud eesti ajaleht Eesti Vabariigi taastamise lootust ja idealismi vaimu\n\n\n\nKuidas ajaleht ühendab jätkuvalt Ameerika eestlaste kodusid ja kogukondi\n\n\n\nArutamine ja sõnavõtud – olete lahkesti oodatud kõnelema\n\n\n\nKohvilaud\, sünnipäevakook\n\n\n\n\nLaupäeval\, 6. aprillil kell 10:00 – 13:00 toimub Vaba Eesti Sõna sõpradele kaastöö tegemise õpituba. Kõik vanused teretulnud. \n\n\n\nVõimalus osaleda üritustel Zoomi vahendusel. Eel-registreerimine www.vabaeestisona.com või www.estosite.org. \n\n\n\nVõtke sõbrad kaasa ja kohtume varsti. Olete oodatud! \n\n\n\nTervitades\,The Nordic Press Estonian-American Publishers\, Inc.ajalehe Vaba Eesti Sõna väljaandja \n\n\n\n\nRegistreeri siin\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlease join us for this anniversary conference celebrating decades of dedicated coverage of the Estonian American community 75 YEARS of FREE ESTONIAN WORD: THE ART OF CONNECTING PAST AND FUTURE \n\n\n\nFriday\, April 5th\, 2 pm NY Estonian House\, Blue Room \n\n\n\n\nThe role of the newspaper in keeping hope alive for the restored independence of the Republic of Estonia and nourishing the spirit of idealism\n\n\n\nConnecting Estonian-American families and communities\n\n\n\nDiscussion and tributes – speakers from the audience welcomed\n\n\n\nReception and birthday cake\n\n\n\n\nSaturday\, April 6th\, 10 am – 1:30 pm\, workshop: Tips on how to contribute important and interesting information about your communities and how to get involved. All ages are welcome. \n\n\n\nWe hope to see you in person\, but you can also join us virtually. Pre-register: www.vabaeestisona.com or www.estosite.org. \n\n\n\nWe encourage you to share this invitation! \n\n\n\nLooking forward to seeing you\,The Nordic Press Estonian-American Publishers\, Inc.of the newspaper Free Estonian World \n\n\n\n\nRegister here URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/conference-75-years-of-free-estonian-word-the-art-of-connecting-past-and-future/ LOCATION:NY Estonian House\, 243 E 34th St\, New York\, New York\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:Community,Culture,Estonia,Estonian Culture,Family activities,Online Discussion END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240325T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240325T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240322T130028Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240322T131808Z UID:10327-1711324800-1711411199@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Registration deadline: Baltic Advocacy Days DESCRIPTION:This is a crucial time to advocate loudly in support of Estonian\, Latvian\, and Lithuanian security interests. Your voice matters\, and your calls make an impact. The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) coordinates meetings between constituents and offices of the United States Congress to further the ties between the U.S. and the Baltic states. Talking points will be emailed to participants. We know the threats\, we must make them understood in DC. \n\n\n\nThis year’s Baltic Advocacy Days will take place from April 8-12\, 2024\, consisting of both in-person and virtual meetings over Zoom. Meetings typically last approximately 20 -30 minutes with a goal of at least two-three meetings per participant. \n\n\n\nVirtual meetings will be scheduled from Monday to Wednesday\, April 8 -10. \n\n\n\nIn-person meetings will take place on April 11-12 (Thursday). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOur advocacy for 2024 will be focused on these points: \n\n\n\n•    Security assistance to Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania (Baltic Security Initiative\, Foreign Military Financing\, etc.) \n\n\n\n•    Security assistance for Ukraine necessary to help it defend itself against Russia. \n\n\n\n•    Maintaining a strong NATO alliance and transatlantic relations. \n\n\n\n•    Other Ukraine-related legislation. \n\n\n\nWe encourage anyone interested in strengthening U.S.-Baltic relations and advocating for transatlantic security to fill out the form below. No prior knowledge is required\, as talking points will be emailed to participants. \n\n\n\nClick Here to Register URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/registration-deadline-baltic-advocacy-days/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Advocacy,Community,Online Discussion,Security and Baltic Cooperation,Ukraine ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-Advocacy-Days-QR.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC)":MAILTO:jbanc@jbanc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240323T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240323T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240312T040238Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240312T040404Z UID:10231-1711216800-1711216800@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Live Music & Dance Show "Dawn till Dusk" by Diina Tamm & Valev Laube DESCRIPTION:Join us for a unique multidisciplinary performance that fuses together dance and musical interpretations of Estonian mythology\, folk calendar traditions\, and old archive recordings dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. Let’s embark on a journey through a year in life\, experiencing mystic rituals\, old and new folklore tunes\, and traditions that have shaped modern-day understandings and practices of our cultural identity. \n\n\n\nDirected by Estonian-born artists Diina Tamm and Valev Laube\, this folk-inspired contemporary performance will uncover aspects of Estonian culture that\, though no longer celebrated daily\, continue to influence our cultural legacy and ongoing evolution. \n\n\n\nWe welcome you to join us for this multisensory exploration of life’s cycles. \n\n\n\n5 PM – Doors Open6 PM – Performance/Showtime7:15 PM – Meet & Greet Downstairs \n\n\n\nNote: Suitable for Estonian speakers and non-Estonian speakers alike\, great for audiences of all ages. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/live-music-dance-show-dawn-till-dusk-by-diina-tamm-valev-laube/ LOCATION:New Yorgi Eesti Maja/ New York Estonian House\, 243 E 34th Street\, New York City\, New York\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:Community,Culture,Education,Estonia,Estonian Culture,Family activities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Dawn-til-dusk-postr-2024-NY.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240316T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240316T110000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240201T044138Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240304T161331Z UID:9991-1710586800-1710586800@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Annual Meeting of the Estonian Archives in the U.S. DESCRIPTION:THIS MEETING HAS BEEN POSTPONED. New date to be determined. Member organizations and delegates reconvene in Lakewood\, NJ for part 2 of its 2023 Annual Meeting. \n\n\n\nThe Estonian Archives in the U.S. are a registered 501c3 nonprofit organization. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/annual-meeting-of-the-estonian-archives-in-the-u-s/ LOCATION:Estonian Archives\, 607 E 7th Street\, Lakewood\, New Jersey\, 08701\, United States CATEGORIES:Community,Culture,Estonia END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240308T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240310T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240125T061133Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T204316Z UID:9945-1709856000-1710115199@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Think S*N*O*W! Esto Ski Weekend @ China Peak\, CA DESCRIPTION:China Peak has received 5 inches since yesterday(Jan 23)\, for a season total of 5 feet of snow! With China Peak’s new snow-making system\, on top of this base\, we are guaranteed to have an amazing weekend!As expected\, rooms in the lodge are filling up fast\, so we encourage everyone to claim their room ASAP. The online reservation system is working nicely. and you can book your room athttps://www.skichinapeak.com/the-inn-at-china-peak\, or by calling  (559) 233-1200 to book your room.Some of us will already be arriving on Thursday. We look forward to seeing you all there for what will be an amazing weekend!Think Snow!Heidi and Andres URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/think-snow-esto-ski-weekend-china-peak-ca/ LOCATION:China Peak Skiresort\, 59265 Highway 168\, Lakeshore\, CA 9363\, Lakeshore\, California\, 93634 CATEGORIES:Community,Sports ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/esto-skiitrip-chinapeak.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240307T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240307T213000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240304T172636Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240306T205622Z UID:10145-1709841600-1709847000@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:IN FOCUS with EANC: Estonian Consular Services in the U.S. after Consulate Closures. DESCRIPTION:IN FOCUS:  Estonian Consular Services in the U.S. after Consulate Closures \n\n\n\nThe Estonian American National Council is hosting a follow-up virtual session on Thursday\, March 7\, beginning at 8 pm Eastern\, to discuss important information regarding consular services upon the upcoming closing of the Estonian consulates in New York and San Francisco. The purpose of the session is to provide information about how consular and related services will be provided after the closures\, including by the network of honorary consuls. (The session’s purpose is not to review the closure decision itself).  \n\n\n\nThe session will cover: \n\n\n\n\nConsular services available to Estonian Americans\n\n\n\nExpected changes in how services will be provided due to the closures\n\n\n\nThe timeline for transition of services\n\n\n\nQ & A\n\n\n\n\nEANC is honored to welcome our four distinguished panelists – Deputy Chief of Mission Margus Särglepp (Estonian Embassy in Washington\, DC)\, Consul General Maria Belovas (Consulate\, San Francisco) \, Consul\, Acting Head of Mission Tarmo Punnik (Consulate\, NYC)\, and Honorary Consul Jaak Treiman.   \n\n\n\nWhile some details of this transition are still being worked out\, the Estonian American National Council looks forward to your participation in this opportunity to hear the latest information directly from representatives of the Estonian government\, and to bring your questions about how this might impact you and other Estonian Americans. \n\n\n\nAfter initial presentations by our panel members\, there will be opportunity for Q and A.  The session will be in both Estonian and English. Register here for the link. This is an extraordinary opportunity. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFOOKUSES: Eesti konsulaarteenused USA-s pärast konsulaadi sulgemist \n\n\n\nNeljapäeval\, 7. märtsil kell 20:00 – 21:30 (EST) \n\n\n\nAmeerika Rahvuskomiteel Ühendriikides on heameel kutsuda Teid osalema neljapäeval\, 7. märtsil\, algusega kell 20.00 Idaranniku ajajärgi\, virtuaalse järelistungil\, kus arutatakse olulist infot konsulaarteenuste kohta seoses Eesti konsulaatide peatse sulgemisega New Yorgis ja San Franciscos. Infotunni eesmärk on anda teavet selle kohta\, kuidas pärast sulgemist konsulaar- ja seonduvaid teenuseid osutatakse\, sealhulgas aukonsulite võrgustiku poolt. (Istungj eesmärk ei ole sulgemisotsuse enda läbivaatamine). Peale meie kutsutud külaliste ettekandeid\, on publikul võimalik esitada seotud küsimusi. \n\n\n\nInfotund käsitleb: \n\n\n\n• Konsularateenuste kättesaadavus Ameerikas olevate eestlastele \n\n\n\n• Eeldatavad muudatused teenuste osutamises seoses sulgemisega \n\n\n\n• Teenuste ülemineku ajakava \n\n\n\nPaneelis osalevad neli lugupeetud külalist – Suursaatkonna esinduse juhataja asetäitja Margus Särglepp (Eesti saatkond Washingtonis)\, peakonsul Maria Belovas (konsulaat\, San Francisco)\, konsul\, esinduse juhi kohusetäitja Tarmo Punnik (konsulaat\, NYC) ja aukonsul Jaak Treiman. \n\n\n\nKuigi mõned selle konsulaatide ülemineku üksikasjad on alles väljatöötamisel\, ootab ERKÜ teie osalemist sellel heal võimalusel kuulda värskeimat teavet otse Eesti valitsuse esindajatelt ning esitada oma küsimused selle kohta\, kuidas võimalikud muudatused puudutavad teid ja teisi eesti ameeriklased. Pärast meie paneeliliikmete esmaseid ettekandeid on võimalik esitada küsimusi. Virtuaalne programm viiakse läbi eesti ja inglise keeles. Registreerimine on nüüd avatud. (Registreerijatele saadetakse osalemiseks link.) URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/eanc-to-host-estonian-officials-on-march-7-for-online-discussion-about-future-consular-services-in-the-u-s/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual gathering ORGANIZER;CN="Estonian American National Council":MAILTO:erku@estosite.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240307T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240310T140000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20231220T053146Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T204120Z UID:9667-1709809200-1710079200@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:2024 ESTO SKI @ Mont-Tremblant DESCRIPTION:In its 70th anniversary year\, Eesti Spordiliit USAs invites you to celebrate with sports all year long! \n\n\n\nESTO Ski is headed back to Mont-Tremblant to celebrate its 60th ANNIVERSARY!  Join us on the French-Canadian slopes from March 7th through March 10th\, 2024. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMont-Tremblant is a remarkable resort town best known for its exceptional skiing\, undeniable charm\, magnificent landscape\, and for the impressive amount of activities that are available for all ages.The Eesti Spordiliit ESTO Ski weekend will feature our traditional group events including: Apres-Ski mixer\, downhill & cross-country ski races\, and an awards party. \n\n\n\nWe hope to see you in Canada!   URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/2024-esto-ski-mont-tremblant/ LOCATION:Mont Tremblant Village\, Quebec\, CA CATEGORIES:Community,Family activities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/estoski_n.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Eesti Spordiliit USAs / Estonian American Amateur Athletes Association":MAILTO:info@eaaasport.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240304T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240318T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240304T054523Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T171534Z UID:10140-1709510400-1710806399@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Boston Baltic Film Festival (virtual) DESCRIPTION:Following a successful in-person weekend of Baltic film at the Paramount Emerson Center in Boston\, the Boston Baltic Film Festival (BBFF) organizers now bring to you two weeks of virtual screenings across the U.S.  Virtual screenings will be offered March 4-18\, 2024. Documentaries\, drama\, mysteries\, action\, love stories\, comedy…. get to know the Baltic soul. See what all the buzz is about! \n\n\n\nEANC is a proud support of this event. \n\n\n\nThe full line-up of 20 critically acclaimed films offered from Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania can be seen on the website: www.bostonbalticfilm.org \n\n\n\nTickets and passes for virtual screenings on sale now. \n\n\n\n\nBox Office\n\n\n\n\nThe film industries in the three Baltic countries consistently produce films that garner awards in international festivals around the world. Boston audiences will be able to engage with the filmmakers in The Festival is organized by the Baltic Film Committee and the American National Latvian League (ALTS)\, in collaboration with ArtsEmerson. For more information visit the BBFF homepage www.bostonbalticfilm.org\, follow them on Facebook\, Instagram\, or contact info@bostonbalticfilm.org. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/botson-baltic-film-festival-virtual-festival/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Community,Culture,Estonia,Estonian Culture,Family activities,Latvia,Lithuania END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240303T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240303T123000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240121T032754Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T014019Z UID:9907-1709463600-1709469000@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Sneak Preview: The Paradox of Seabrook Farms @ Boston Baltic Film Festival DESCRIPTION:EANC is proud to help present the long-awaited documentary The Paradox of Seabrook Farms will be shown as part of the 6th Annual Boston Baltic Film Festival (BBFF) at the Emerson Paramount Theater Center in downtown Boston. The in-person festival runs March 1-3\, followed by a two-week virtual festival. (Please note that the Seabrook film will not be available virtually at this time.)Film-maker Helga Merits will be present to introduce the film and for an introductory talk\, where she will also take audience. On Friday\, March 1 she will also be participating with other filmmakers on a panel discussion about the Baltic film industry. \n\n\n\nEANC is a proud supporter of this documentary\, and welcomes its addition to the line-up of events marking 80 years since the 1944 Mass Flight of Refugees\, a tragic time in history when 80\,000 Estonians were forced to flee their beloved homeland to escape the terror of Soviet occupiers. Documentaries such as ‘The Paradox of Seabrook Farms: Shattered Dreams\, Restored Hopes’ are important vehicles for keeping the historical record straight. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/premiere-screening-the-paradox-of-seabrook-farms-boston-baltic-film-festival/ LOCATION:Emerson Paramount Center\, 599 Washington Street\, Boston\, Massachusetts\, 02111\, United States CATEGORIES:Commemorating The Mass Flight of Refugees 1944,Community,Culture END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240301T210000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240301T233000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240201T050132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T013638Z UID:9996-1709326800-1709335800@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Boston Baltic Film Festival Opening Night & Opening Reception DESCRIPTION:EANC is proud to once again support this quality film festival\, presenting films from Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania\, with opportunities to meet & speak on site with some of the filmmakers themselves. \n\n\n\nOpening day events: \n\n\n\nA Panel Discussion with the filmmakers\, \n\n\n\nScreening of The Invisible Flight\, \n\n\n\nOpening Receiption @ “Fajitas & ‘Ritas” 25 West Street\, Boston\, MA \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for three days of the latest award-winning films from Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania. Immerse yourself in movie magic! \n\n\n\nThe Sixth Annual Boston Baltic Film Festival (BBFF) will take place in March 2024 with in-person screenings followed by two weeks of virtual screenings across the U.S. In-person screenings and events will take place at the Emerson Paramount Theater’s Bright Family Screening Room in downtown Boston March 1-3\, 2024.  Virtual screenings will be offered March 4-16\, 2024. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe line-up of 20 critically acclaimed films offered from Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania can be seen on the website: www.bostonbalticfilm.org\, \n\n\n\nTickets and passes for both in-person and virtual screenings will go on sale through our website on February 5\, 2024. \n\n\n\nThe film industries in the three Baltic countries consistently produce films that garner awards in international festivals around the world. \n\n\n\n Boston audiences will be able to engage with the filmmakers in Q&A after the screenings and during a panel discussion on Friday\, March 1\, 2024.The Festival is organized by the Baltic Film Committee and the American National Latvian League (ALTS)\, in collaboration with ArtsEmerson. For more information visit our homepage www.bostonbalticfilm.org\, follow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, or contact info@bostonbalticfilm.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTHE INVISIBLE FIGHT /Estonia\n\n\n\nOur highly anticipated opening feature will be Rainer Sarnet’s latest award winning film The Invisible Fight – a wild and zany martial arts action comedy shot like a vintage drive-in movie that is set in an orthodox monastery. A film that\, according to Variety\, could attract cult status.  \n\n\n\n“EVERYTHING COOL IS BANNED IN THE SOVIET UNION”Rafael/The Invisible Fight\n\n\n\n“Delightfully inventive and riotously funny\, The Invisible Fight makes it clear that the joy of kung fu cinema is celebrated worldwide\, even as far as Estonia.” Yep it looks amazing! Funny and smart and unique. I’m in.”Alex Billington/ Firstshowing.net URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/bbff-2024-opening-night-opening-reception/ LOCATION:Emerson Paramount Center\, 559 Washington St Boston\, MA 02111\, Boston\, Massachusetts\, 02111 CATEGORIES:Community,Culture,Estonia,Family activities,Latvia,Lithuania,Virtual gathering END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240301T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240303T205000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240229T022737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T023635Z UID:10129-1709312400-1709499000@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Boston Baltic Film Festival DESCRIPTION:In person and Virtual film festival \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoston\, MA. The Sixth Annual Boston Baltic Film Festival (BBFF) will take place in March 2024 with in-person screenings followed by two weeks of virtual screenings across the U.S. In-person screenings and events will take place at the Emerson Paramount Theater’s Bright Family Screening Room in downtown Boston March 1-3\, 2024.  Virtual screenings will be offered March 4-16\, 2024. \n\n\n\nThe line-up of 20 critically acclaimed films offered from Estonia\, Latvia\, and Lithuania can be seen on the website: www.bostonbalticfilm.org\, \n\n\n\nTickets and passes for both in-person and virtual screenings will go on sale through our website on February 5\, 2024. \n\n\n\nThe film industries in the three Baltic countries consistently produce films that garner awards in international festivals around the world. Boston audiences will be able to engage with the filmmakers in Q&A after the screenings and during a panel discussion on Friday\, March 1\, 2024.The Festival is organized by the Baltic Film Committee and the American National Latvian League (ALTS)\, in collaboration with ArtsEmerson. For more information visit our homepage www.bostonbalticfilm.org\, follow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, or contact info@bostonbalticfilm.org. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/boston-baltic-film-festival-4/ LOCATION:Emerson Paramount Center\, 599 Washington Street\, Boston\, Massachusetts\, 02111\, United States CATEGORIES:Commemorating The Mass Flight of Refugees 1944,Community,Culture,Estonian Culture,Family activities,Latvia,Lithuania END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240224T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240403T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240302T034643Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240312T025438Z UID:10223-1708732800-1712188799@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Applications Accepted for Stipend toward Internship in Estonia DESCRIPTION:The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) invite Estonian youths (age 18-35) living abroad to apply for a stipend to complete a professional internship in Estonia. \n\n\n\nThe aim of the stipend is to provide an opportunity to get to know the Estonian culture\, language\, potential living and working opportunities and build professional networks. \n\n\n\nThe stipend application deadline is April 3\, 2024 at 11:59PM (Estonian time). \n\n\n\nThe stipend consists of two parts: \n\n\n\n\na basic stipend in the amount of 3000 euros;\n\n\n\nif necessary\, a travel stipend for the journey from the place of residence to Estonia and back.\n\n\n\n\nThe basic stipend is intended for a full-time internship with a duration up to two months (a minimum of 4 weeks). \n\n\n\nWho can apply? \n\n\n\n\nA person of Estonian origin\, 18-35 years of age\, who is living abroad and has done so for at least the last 5 years consecutively;\n\n\n\n… and who has completed higher or vocational education\, or completed at least one academic year from a currently ongoing higher or vocational education program.\n\n\n\n\nThe stipend application deadline is April 3\, 2024 at 11:59PM (Estonian time). \n\n\n\nApplications must be sent by e-mail to the address  taotlused@estdev.ee  by the deadline. \n\n\n\nCounseling: if you want to participate\, but you don’t know where to start\, send a motivation letter to the e-mail  diaspora@mfa.ee \n\n\n\nAll questions regarding the stipend programme can be directed to the coordinator: Annika Leek annika.leek@estdev.ee \n\n\n\nFor more information in English download the document here. \n\n\n\nFor more information in Estonian visit the ESTDEV website here. \n\n\n\nGlobal Estonian | Stipend for Estonian compatriots to complete an internship in Estonia URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/applications-accepted-for-stipend-toward-internship-in-estonia/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Community,Education,Estonia,Government of Estonia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Eesti-noor-voorsil.png ORGANIZER;CN="Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Estonian Centre for International Development":MAILTO:annika.leek@estdev.ee END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240224T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240225T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240225T040350Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240225T041151Z UID:10102-1708732800-1708905599@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Baltic Action Alert: Ukraine rallies Feb. 24-25 DESCRIPTION:A Message from our friends at the ALA (American Latvian Association) Call to Action Unit \n\n\n\nDear Friend of the Baltics\, \n\n\n\nFeb. 24 will mark two years of Russia’s murderous invasion of Ukraine\, and almost 10 years of Russia’s illegal occupation of Ukrainian territory since 2014. It is an anniversary to rally support against the violence\, lies and threats perpetrated by the regime in Moscow – not only against Ukraine\, but also against the U.S.\, the Baltics and our allies. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn this election year\, Congress and candidates need to see and hear public support for Ukraine\, to ensure the U.S. continues to support Ukraine now – and the Baltics in the future. \n\n\n\nWe urge you to use this tragic anniversary to demonstrate need and resolve by participating in a rally or other event that local Ukrainians are hosting on Feb. 24 or Feb. 25: \n\n\n\nCA – Los Angeles:https://www.facebook.com/events/1433291477623836/https://www.facebook.com/events/1086304085855262/ (auto rally)CA – San Diego:https://www.facebook.com/events/1328666797840700/ (fundraiser)CA – San Francisco:https://www.facebook.com/events/844859137439082/ (auto rally)CO – Denver:https://www.facebook.com/events/324173363737901/CT – Hartford:https://www.facebook.com/events/349605357965212/District of Columbia – Washington DC: https://www.facebook.com/events/892714775681965HI – Honolulu:https://www.facebook.com/events/1163343175046955/IL – Chicago:https://www.facebook.com/events/1048034142978491/MA – Boston:https://www.facebook.com/events/388857010366529/MI – Detroit:https://www.facebook.com/events/637067795140957/MI – Grand Rapids:https://www.facebook.com/events/936960738090306/MN – Minneapolis:https://www.facebook.com/events/344734181850945/NC – Asheville:https://www.facebook.com/events/3381827465443069/NY – New York:https://ukrainianinstitute.org/event/24-february-2024/ (open house)OH – Cleveland:https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=779257527565985PA – Philadelphia: https://www.facebook.com/events/310533904861294/PA – Pittsburgh:https://www.facebook.com/events/7395367410520111/SC – Columbia:https://www.facebook.com/events/3687116931611887/SC – Greenville:https://www.facebook.com/events/963025491931998/TN – Nashville:https://www.facebook.com/events/1082021496331001/TX – Austin:https://www.facebook.com/events/751180146927665/TX – Dallas: https://www.facebook.com/events/424210626701438/ (auto rally)VT – Dummerston (near Brattleboro):https://www.facebook.com/events/784936526788877/WA – Seattle:https://www.facebook.com/events/763608985821498WI – Milwaukee:https://www.facebook.com/events/755763479310616/ \n\n\n\nPlease check local times and locations. Bring your family members\, friends and Baltic flags! Let’s show Baltic support for Ukraine! \n\n\n\nAitäh\, paldies\, ačiū\, thank you.ALA Call to Action Management Committee \n\n\n\nAlong with its partners the Estonian American National Council and the Lithuanian American Council\, ALA is a parent organization of the Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC). JBANC works to represent Baltic Americans on Capitol Hill. \n\n\n\nALA is not affiliated with any of the groups organizing these events and is not responsible for event content or changes. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/baltic-action-alert-ukraine-rallies-feb-24-25/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Advocacy,Community,Estonia,Family activities,Latvia,Lithuania,Ukraine ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/ALA.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240224T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240224T235959 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240221T152832Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240225T043153Z UID:10080-1708732800-1708819199@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Estonian Independence Day DESCRIPTION:photo: www.riigikogu.ee\n\n\n\nHappy Estonian Independence Day! \n\n\n\nHead Eesti Vabariigi aastapäeva! \n\n\n\n(scroll down for Estonian) \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nRemarks on the 106th Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia\n\n\n\nDear fellow Estonians\, dear friends\, \n\n\n\nThe importance of February 24 is not lost on any Estonian. It was 106 years ago that Estonia declared its independence in the proclamation Manifest kõigile Eestimaa rahvastele. Drafted by a committee of nationally-minded Estonians\, this „Manifest to all peoples in Estonia“ was approved during the short window at the end of WWI when Russian invaders were leaving and the Germans had yet to arrive. We are rightly proud of this bold act and of all those that followedas Estonia fought to gain and regain independence over the next century.  Estonians do not take their freedom for granted. This year\, as we enter the third year of Russia’s vile invasion of Ukraine\, historical events continue to ring loudly in our collective memory. \n\n\n\nWhereas February 24th\, 1918\, marked the birth of the Republic of Estonia\, it wasn’t until two years later\, February 2\, 1920\, that the Tartu Peace Treaty was signed to mark the end of Estonia’s War of Independence\, and in which Soviet Russia recognized the independence of the Republic of Estonia in perpetuity. The treaty has been called Estonia’s birth certificate\, and had pioneering significance in international law\, in that it cited the concept of a people’s right to self-determination\, to decide their own destiny.   \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSo today we celebrate the freedom and self-determination that Estonia has\, and which Ukraine is fighting so hard to keep. Let us celebrate this day whole-heartedly\, with joy and with pride in our freedom\, community\, and identity. Even under the shadow of Russia’s continuing war on Ukraine\, it is important to make space in our hearts to celebrate Estonia for all that it has accomplished\, what it continues to achieve\, and for its strong international voice in these disruptive and disturbing times.  \n\n\n\nIt is certainly troubling that the war in Ukraine continues\, and we are right to be uneasy about current events\, both in Europe and here in the U.S. We urge you to channel these thoughts into inspiration for action. We encourage you to use the privilege we have as Estonian Americans – that of using our voices and participating in the democratic process. Across the US\, a record number of Estonian Americans participated in advocacy activities during the year following Russia’s invasion\, speaking out for Ukraine and for Baltic security interests.  It is of utmost importance to continue these efforts in the coming year. So much is at stake in the U.S. Congress and in the understanding of the American people.  \n\n\n\nAs Estonians we are especially aware of the stakes. As has often been said of Baltic Americans: “They know.”  We know. And we remember. This year we commemorate 80 years since the Mass Flight of 1944\, when so many fled Estonia to escape the invading Soviet forces. Our parents and grandparents were faced with the impossible choice\, they experienced the life-altering disruption – whether they fled or were left to face the brutal Soviet regime. Our families were shattered. So many years later\, eight decades later\, even as Estonia has blossomed in regained freedom\, we as a people are still putting together the pieces of family and memory to fill in the gaps of our history.  \n\n\n\nIn Estonia\, the Mass Flight of 1944 is only very recently entering the public dialogue and national consciousness in a more open way. For many younger descendants of Estonians abroad\, the story of how and why our communities developed at the same time also remains largely unknown\, or only vaguely recalled. \n\n\n\nTo help keep the conversation going\, EANC is proud to be part of a larger commemorative project that we can all support together. A memorial sculpture and place of remembrance has been commissioned in Estonia to create a permanent reminder of the Mass Flight. This graceful and symbolic sculpture will depict the last moment of the countless goodbyes\, the last touch of hands at departure\, a moment encompassing uncertainty about the future\, no matter if you left or stayed. To be sited on grounds beside the Pärnu River\, one of the areas from which thousands fled in small boats\, this memorial sculpture is scheduled to be unveiled on September 21\, 2024.  We hope this date will be a focus for Estonians worldwide to remember and to commemorate these terrible events\, each in their own way.  \n\n\n\nAs Estonian Americans we have the privilege and responsibility to connect future generations to this story. We who have ourselves experienced or have a family legacy of the experience of brokenness\, recognize the gift of this inheritance – our story — as we celebrate EV106 and commemorate the Mass Flight of 1944. \n\n\n\nWe at the Estonian American National Council urge you to celebrate the day and share the gift.   \n\n\n\nElagu Eesti! \n\n\n\nMai-Liis Bartling \n\n\n\npresident \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nEesti Rahvuskomitee Ühendriikides tervitus Eesti Vabariigi 106. aastapäeva puhul \n\n\n\nKallid sõbrad! \n\n\n\nVabariigi aastapäeva tähistades pühitseme oma rahva lugu \n\n\n\n24. veebruari tähtsust teab iga eestlane. 106 aastat tagasi kuulutas Eesti “Manifestiga kõigile Eestimaa rahvastele” välja oma iseseisvuse. \n\n\n\nRahvuslikult meelestatud eestlastest koosneva komitee koostatud manifest kiideti heaks Esimese maailmasõja lõpu lühikeses ajaaknas\, kui Vene sissetungijad olid lahkumas ja sakslased polnud veel saabunud. Oleme õigustatult uhked selle julge teo ja kõigi järgnevate tegude üle enam kui saja aasta jooksul\, kui Eesti võitles iseseisvuse taastamise nimel. Eestlaste jaoks ei ole meie vabadus iseenesest mõistetav. Tänavu\, kui astume kolmandasse aastasse Venemaa alatust sissetungist Ukrainasse\, helisevad ajaloosündmused meie kollektiivses mälus jätkuvalt valjult. \n\n\n\nKui 24. veebruar 1918 tähistas Eesti Vabariigi sündi\, siis alles kaks aastat hiljem\, 2. veebruaril 1920 sõlmitud Tartu rahuleping\, millega  Nõukogude Venemaa tunnustas Eesti Vabariigi  iseseisvust igavesest ajast igavesti\, lõpetas Eesti Vabadussõja. Lepingut on nimetatud Eesti sünnitunnistuseks ja see oli rahvusvahelises õiguses teedrajava tähendusega\, kuna viitas rahva enesemääramisõigusele ning õigusele otsustada oma saatuse üle. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTäna tähistame vabadust ja enesemääramist\, mis Eestil on ja mille säilitamise nimel Ukraina nii kõvasti võitleb. Tähistagem seda päeva kogu südamest\, rõõmuga ja uhkusega oma vabaduse\, kogukonna ja identiteedi üle. Ka Venemaa jätkuva Ukraina-sõja varjus on oluline teha oma südames ruumi\, et tähistada Eesti saavutusi\, Eesti jätkuvat arengut ning Eesti tugevat rahvusvahelist häält praegusel segasel ja häirival ajal. \n\n\n\nKindlasti on murettekitav\, et sõda Ukrainas jätkub\, ja meil on õigus olla rahutud praeguste sündmuste tõttu nii Euroopas kui ka siin USA-s. Kutsume teid üles muundama need mõtted tegutsemise inspiratsiooniks. Soovitame teil kasutada privileegi\, mida omame ameeriklastena – kasutada oma häält ja osaleda demokraatlikus protsessis. Üle USA osales Venemaa invasioonile järgnenud aastal kaitsetegevuses rekordarv Ameerika eestlasi\, kes võtsid sõna Ukraina ja Balti riikide julgeolekuhuvide eest. Ülimalt oluline on neid jõupingutusi jätkata ka järgmisel aastal. Nii palju on kaalul USA Kongressis ning ameeriklaste arusaamades. \n\n\n\nEestlastena oleme panustest eriti teadlikud – nagu balti-ameeriklaste kohta sageli öeldakse: “Nad teavad.” Me teame. Ja me mäletame. Tänavu tähistame 80. aasta möödumist 1944. a. suurpõgenemisest\, kui nii paljud põgenesid Eestist pealetungivate Nõukogude vägede eest. Meie vanemad ja vanavanemad seisid võimatu valiku ees\, tehes elumuutva otsuse – kas põge-neda või jääda silmitsi jõhkra nõukogude korraga. Meie pered purunesid. Palju aastaid – kaheksa aastakümmet hiljem\, isegi kui Eesti on õitsele puhkenud taastatud vabaduses\, paneme rahvana ikka veel kokku perekonna- ja mälukilde\, et täita oma ajaloo lünki. Eestis on 1944. aasta suurpõgenemise teema alles jõudmas avalikku dialoogi ja rahvuslikku teadvusesse. Paljude noorema põlve väliseestlaste jaoks on see samuti tundmatu või ähmaselt meenutatav lugu\, kuidas ja miks meie kogukonnad ühel ja samal ajal välja kujunesid. \n\n\n\nTeema ühisruumis ülalhoidmiseks osaleb ERKÜ uhkusega suuremas mälestusprojektis\, mida saame kõik koos toetada. Koos ÜEKNi teiste liikmesmaade esindajatega tellisime mälestusskulptuuri ja oleme loomas püsivat suurpõgenemise mälestuspaika (vt ka 12. lk). See graatsiline skulptuur kujutab sümboolselt lugematute hüvastijättude viimast hetke\, viimast käte puudutust lahkumishetkel\, mis hõlmas ebakindlust tuleviku suhtes olenemata sellest\, kas lahkuti või jäädi. Mälestusskulptuur hakkab paiknema Pärnu jõe ääres\, sealt põgenesid väikeste paatidega tuhanded inimesed. Mälestusmärk avatakse 21. septembril 2024. Loodame\, et sellel kuupäeval mälestavad eestlased kogu maailmas neid kohutavaid sündmusi –  igaüks omal moel. \n\n\n\nAmeerika eestlastena on meil eesõigus ja kohustus selle looga siduda ka meie tulevasi põlvkondi. Meie\, kes oleme ise kogenud perede rebenemist või omame seda perekondlikku pärandit\, tunneme ära selles pärandis kingituse – meie rahva loo – mida pühitseme\,  tähistades EV 106. aastapäeva ja mälestades 1944. aasta suurpõgenemist. \n\n\n\nEesti Rahvuskomitee Ühendriikides esinduskogu kutsub kõiki üles seda päeva tähistama ja seda kingitust jagama. \n\n\n\nElagu Eesti! \n\n\n\nEesti Vabariigi 106. aastapäeva puhul \n\n\n\nMai-Liis Bartling \n\n\n\nERKÜ president URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/estonian-independence-day-2/ LOCATION:New York CATEGORIES:Estonia,Estonian Culture,Family activities,Government of Estonia,Security END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240217T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240217T170000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240121T030920Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240121T030922Z UID:9899-1708187400-1708189200@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Film & Concert Night w/ Mart Sander & Triin Lellep at NY Estonian House DESCRIPTION:Estonian stars of stage and film Mart Sander and Triin Lellep bring a double feature of Estonian culture and entertainment. Come for the screening\, stay for the show! \n\n\n\nAdvance screening of “Dr. Sander’s Sleep Cure.” \n\n\n\nThe official American premiere will take place on February 24th at the Nevermore Film Festival in Durham\, NC. Come to find out how this film made it into the Guiness Book of World Records. Run-time is 1h 38 minutes\, and will be followed by a Q&A session. \n\n\n\nBegins at 4:30 pm; tickets for the film are $10 at the door. \n\n\n\nConcert: “Tallinn\, Broadway\, Hollywood” \n\n\n\nFeaturing Mart Sander and Triin Lellep\, who will be performing beloved melodies from Estonian legend Raimond Valgre’s catalog; as well as A.L. Webber and Edith Piaf’s repertoire. They will also perform some well-known Broadway and Hollywood film songs. Tickets for the concert are $25 at the door. \n\n\n\nDiscounted tickets for both events are $30 at the door. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEstonian House Bar and kitchen open 4-11pm. \n\n\n\nAfter the concert\, Mart Sander invites you all to the bar for one of his legendary jam sessions. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBaar ja köök avatud 16:00 – 23:00. \n\n\n\nKell 16:30 (Ernst Jaaksoni saalis) on teil ainukordne võimalus näha filmi “Dr. Sander’s Sleep Cure\,” mis jõudis Guinnessi rekordite raamatusse ning mille ametlik Ameerika esilinastus toimub Eesti Vabariigi aastapäeval\, Nevermore Film Festivalil Durham\, NC. Film kestab 1:38 ning peale filmi toimub ka Q&A. Filmi pilet on $10 uksel. \n\n\n\nKell 18:30 toimub meie suures saalis kontsert “Tallinn\, Broadway\, Hollywood”. Esitlusele tulevad armastatud meloodiad nii Raimond Valgre kataloogist kui ka A. L. Webber\, Edith Piafi repertuaarist. Lisaks ka mõned tuntud Broadway kui ka Hollywoodi laulud. Kontserdi pilet $25 uksel. \n\n\n\nMõlema ürituse sooduspilet $30 uksel. \n\n\n\nPeale kontserdi kutsub Mart Sander teid kõiki alla baari legendaarsele “jam sessionile”. URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/film-concert-night-w-mart-sander-triin-lellep-at-ny-estonian-house/ LOCATION:New Yorgi Eesti Maja /New York Estonian House\, 243 East 34th Street\, New York City\, New York\, 10016 CATEGORIES:Community,Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.estosite.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2024-MArt-Sander-Triin-Lellep-NYEM.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="NY Estonian House & Society for Estonian Arts & Letters":MAILTO:info@estonianhousenewyork.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240217T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240217T210000 DTSTAMP:20260405T192853 CREATED:20240118T044639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240225T131904Z UID:9895-1708182000-1708203600@www.estosite.org SUMMARY:Connecticut Estonian Independence Day Celebration DESCRIPTION:Eesti Vabariigi 196. Aastapäeva tähistamine \n\n\n\nThe Connecticut Estonian Society’s Estonian Independence Day celebration will occur on Saturday\, February 17th\, at 3:00 PM. The event will again be held at the Baltic Restaurant\, 237 New Britain Road\, Berlin\, CT. 06037. This venue replicates an actual Baltic Manor and features superb Baltic Sea regional cuisine. \n\n\n\nCES is honored to welcome this years guest speaker\, Mr. Margus Särglepp\, the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the Estonian Embassy in Washington\, D.C. The short program will feature a performance by Dr. Hando Nahkur\, one of the leading Estonian pianists of his generation. Hando is internationally acclaimed with numerous awards and has concertized in more than eighteen countries worldwide. \n\n\n\nThe program may well include a few other local performers\, and our traditional raffle with quality prizes. The evening´s DJ music for listening and dancing is provided by Kristjan Karu. \n\n\n\nThe full Baltic buffet features roast pork loin\, sauerkraut\, stuffed cabbage\, chicken\, kielbasa\, and more. For dessert\, we have homemade Kringel. \n\n\n\nTickets are Adults-$65\, young people-$55\, children 12-3 ($30)\, little kids – free (Please see RSVP form below). Please RSVP by February 12th to the CES treasurer\, Margus Laan. \n\n\n\nChecks should be made to CES (Connecticut Estonian Society) and mailed to Margus Laan\, 3 Russell Street\, Wallingford\, CT 06492-3220. Reservations may also be made via email to Margus (mtlaan@att.net) or by phone (203-214-0517)\, with payment by check on-site at the event. We hope to see you all there! URL:https://www.estosite.org/event/connecticut-estonian-independence-day-celebration/ LOCATION:Baltic Restaurant\, 237 New Britain Road\, Berlin\, Connecticut\, 06037\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Estonian Society - Connecticuti Eesti Selts":MAILTO:estoniansocietyct@gmail.com END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR