President’s Message
Tere!
Watching the US Presidential race and the election of Barak Obama strikes a chord with Estonians and Estonian descendents. The achievement of a suppressed minority, the breaking of bonds of social restraints and the attainment of power mirrors the struggles for freedom by the small Baltic country of Estonia.
This fall, our global society is taking stock of its resources and setting a new course. As challenging as the financial and social barriers standing in the way of this new leader may be, on a personal level, they are no more daunting than the situations of the early pioneers, or the refugees, who's eyes of disbelief, stared at a future stripped of the familiar, the comfortable and the known. They took the challenge, they went the mile, and set the course for us to follow.
Perhaps our ancestors are once again looking down with that look we recognize. A look somewhere between smugness and bewilderment. For some of us it may be time to roll up the sleeves, tighten the belt, and with neighborly support and encouragement, readjust our aspirations. Fortunately, we as a community have history on our side. We are strong and resilient. We have imagination, creativity and determination. Above all, we are in a country, which, although it cannot escape world trends, is in a far better situation than others. Lets take the liberty of assuming the social influence of our forefathers rippled beyond the local cooperatives.
AEHS is continuously surpassing the mark. Our history website is a superior accomplishment for a few descendants of a small country. We are planning to develop a companion Edukit website as a learning tool for school children and adults alike, accessible globally by virtue of the Internet.
Our Society is in good financial position. Although our operating costs are slightly higher than membership revenues, we have residual cash from the merger of old societies and positive event revenues. We will not need to raise membership fees in the foreseeable future. We would, however, like to increase our membership. Greater numbers would secure our financial position, and would also enrich our social and cultural bottom line.
We proved this summer that we still retain our basic old-fashioned entrepreneurial and social values. Although this was our 'quiet' year with no province-wide events planned, we were able to respond spontaneously to create an event such as the Great Estonian Stone Exchange. Having relatives from Estonia , previously trangers, take part in one of our historical pioneer events, was a cultural learning experience for residents on both sides of the Atlantic. It was another example of the overwhelming responsiveness of the Estonian community.
Our next major social event is well into the planning and organizing stage. Jaanipaev 2009 will be at Stettler, and I encourage all to become involved. If you have time and opportunity to contribute that is appreciated. But when all is said and done, your attendance is valued in staging another of our first rate social events.
So, kudos to all. Each of you is part of an organization of which to be proud. It has the foresight, willingness and tenacity to accomplish great things. Each new challenge elicits that uncanny Esto capacity to go further, reach new levels and have more fun in the process!
Tervitades, Bob Kingsep
