Ottawa Estonians celebrated the 93rd anniversary of Estonian independence on February 24 at the Royal Oak Pub-On the Canal. Around two dozen people attended. The program was informal. Riho Kruuv, Chargé d'affaires of the Estonian embassy delivered a short well received
aktusekõne (speech) in English which concluded with the statement that we can be proud of our country and a toast to the fatherland.
Everyone stood for a minute of silence to remember and mourn the young victims of the fire at Haapsalu orphanage. Extracts from president Ilves' speech were passed around the tables. It was a very enjoyable friendly evening that was slightly marred by the disappointing absence of several familiar faces, the owners of which had decided to attend a performance of the Mariinski (Kirov) Ballet from Russia that night.
Photo and text: PB
