This past spring has been quite busy for VEMU. In March, University of Toronto professor Anne Agur gave a lecture on the topic of “Management of Joint Pain Using Ultrasound Guided Nerve Blocks and Ablations.” Anne thoroughly introduced this new method of pain therapy that is used in physical therapy treatment programs. At the end of the month, Johanna Helin gave a lecture on “An Estonian Village in Africa” about Estonia’s involvement in development cooperation. The intriguing lecture was followed by a documentary film titled “An Estonian Village in Ghana” and the opportunity to purchase beautiful items crafted by women in Africa involved in projects associated with Estonian development cooperation.
Following the theme of handicrafts, Helle Arro and Maaja Matsoo led a very popular Estonian wrist warmer knitting workshop at the end of March. The attendees learned patterns and were guided through the process of making wrist warmers. Another creative event from the popular “Cooking with Susi” series took place in early April focusing on the topic of “Homemade Bread is the Sweetest.” Susi took the audience through the process of making bread from start to finish, as well as how to make some desserts using bread. All participants were given some delicious samples after the presentation.
Two more lectures closed off the season. Andres Kasekamp, the new Chair of Estonian Studies at the University of Toronto, spoke on the topic of “What is Happening in Estonian Politics?” Many interested listeners came to hear the latest about the political landscape in Estonia. In May, VEMU had guests from the Estonian National Archives visiting for three weeks. One of the guests, Sven Lepa gave an informative lecture on the topic “How to Research Your Roots With a Computer on Your Sofa.” His presentation gave an overview of how to use the Estonian National Archives database from home.
Although this season was quite packed with events, we are already looking forward to next season featuring more exciting speakers and events!