Florida Estos

Outdoor picnics are among our favorite ways of gathering! On a beautiful warm and sunny day, Kesk Florida Eesti Selts (KFES)/Estonian Society of Central Florida–55 members, friends and children–celebrated the 104th Anniversary of Estonian Independence on Sunday, February 27, 2022, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm EST, in Walsingham Park (click on the link for park information), Shelter 8, 12615 102nd Ave, Seminole, FL 33778.

KFES President Merit Laansalu officially opened the afternoon program and offered moving personal reflections on the significance of our celebration of Estonian Independence Day in light of Ukraine’s fight for its continuing independence. Vincent Delaidatti offered a blessing for our meal and a special prayer for independence. Kersti Totsas Linask, our former KFES President, visited us from her home in Virginia and brought greetings from the Washington DC Estonian community. In a moving song of prayer for Eesti led by Birgit and Vincent Delaidatti, we stood and joined together in the singing of Hoia Jumal Eestit. Birgit Deladatti and Moonika Mägi followed with Põhjamaa. In our traditional patriotic salutes, our program began with the singing of the American National Anthem and closed with the Estonian national anthem. During our meal, Heinar Normet offered two special toasts: one to support Ukraine in its fight for continuing freedom and the second to salute Vaba Eesti. On behalf of KFES, Aukonsul Kaie Põhi Latterner offered thanks to the Märten Vaikmaa family, who have hosted prior KFES events at their beautiful home.

Jüri Toomepuu introduced his special guest joining us this day: Jaak Madison, Estonian member of the European Parliament and member of its Committee on Foreign Affairs and its delegation for relations with the United States. Mr. Madison offered greetings and remarks on current affairs and was happy to mingle with our members throughout the afternoon.

This special occasion celebrated our Estonian heritage and culture through songs lead by Eesti Aukonsul and Accordionist and Pianist Extraordinare Kaie Põhi Latterner and our talented singers Vincent Delaidatti, Birgit Delaidatti and Moonika Mägi. Aided through song sheets, everyone especially enjoyed the afternoon of ühislaulud that have become so familiar to all of us.

A main dish of traditional cabbage rolls, our usual potluck smorgasbord made possible through our members and friends, and drinks were organized by the KFES Juhatus (Estonian Society of Central Florida Board). In addition to the adjacent playground and open fields for our children to play, KFES President Merit Laansalu supervised an activity table for children, who were proud to make Estonian flags. Thank you to all who made this another memorable event in the life of the Kesk Florida Eesti Selts. Enjoy the photos that reflect the joy we felt to be together on this special occasion.