The Detroit Estonian Educational Society “Kodu”/Detroidi Eesti Haridusselts “Kodu” (DEHS Kodu) invited Estonian Society of Central Florida/Kesk Florida Eesti Selts member Lisa A. Mets to join them for their November 11, 2023, luncheon in the Latvian Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Founded on October 17, 1926, DEHS Kodu is one of the oldest active Estonian associations in the United States. A former Ann Arbor resident and participant at DEHS Kodu gatherings, it was a treat to be back among old and new friends again. It was a special treat to see Harry Kansman in attendance; his parents were among the “Kodu” founders in 1926!
The gathering this day at just under 20 participants was small but enthusiastic. Attendees were invited to dress in Halloween and Mardipäev costumes. The top prizes were awarded to Linda Einpaul and Ingrid Peil, two dedicated DEHS Kodu Board members. In addition to the delicious smorgasbord lunch, a highlight of the afternoon was the DEHS Kodu program. Krista Pärdi offered an informative lecture on the evolution of Estonian academic societies. Aksel Peil offered insight into Estonian traditions on Mardipäev. The afternoon concluded with a group photograph, taken outside on an uncharacteristically and mercifully warm November afternoon in Michigan.
DEHS Kodu invites friends of Estonia to visit with them when they are in the Detroit area. You may find their information on their website, https://www.detroitestonians.com/, which also includes a link to their Facebook page. We congratulate DEHS “Kodu” on the recent announcement that their website has been selected by the US Library of Congress for inclusion in the Voices: Eastern and Central European Americans Web Archive! Bravo! Palju õnne!
Florida Estos 
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