Finlandia Foundation® National

Our Mission is to sustain both Finnish-American culture in the U.S. and the ancestral tie with Finland by raising funds for grants and scholarships, initiating innovative national programs, and networking with local chapters. SPRING 2017 Signature Events for Finland 100

n tribute to Finland’s Declaration of Independence Finland 100 Signature Events taking place in 2017: Ia century ago, Finlandia Foundation National September 18 Santa Fe, New Mexico: Finland’s is hosting several former President Finland 100 Signature Tarja Halonen will Events throughout participate as a 2017. guest of the Women’s The first of these took International Study place in Florida on Center (WISC). February 18 in the September 22-23 Lake Worth/West Minneapolis: An all- Palm Beach area, Finnish concert by the with FFN as a major Minnesota Orchestra sponsor of the Finland under the baton of 100 Gala at the Delray Music Director Osmo Beach Marriott. A Vänskä. delegation from the Finnish Parliament, November 4 Seattle: led by Speaker Maria Finland 100 concert Lohela, graciously Dignitaries at the February 18 Finland 100 Gala include (far left) Consul by the Northwestern attended the event. General of New York Manu Virtamo; (center) Florida’s Honorary Consul Symphony Orchestra. Peter Makila; and Finnish Parliament Speaker Maria Lohela (in blue he Gala was gown). Photo by Rodney Paavola November 9 New one of several York City: FFN is a T Ossi Rahkonen (below, left) and Consul General Manu Virtamo visit at activities that sponsor of the Finland the Chamber luncheon. Photo by Timo Vainionpaa, usasuomeksi.com weekend, including Centennial Forum the Finnish American at the Union Club, Chamber of Commerce with Keynote Speaker luncheon; Speaker President Martti Lohela addressed the Ahtisaari. meeting. FN has designated FFN President Ossi Fthe springtime Rahkonen attended U.S. concert tour by the events and had the Ida Elina, a modern opportunity to meet Finnish kantele with dignitaries while player, as a Finland representing Finlandia 100 Signature Event. Foundation. Additional FFN Word from the President FFN Recognizes Kiltinens Hyvät Ystävät: with Award of Excellence e are well s described elsewhere in this newsletter, FFN’s inlandia Foundation trustees have selected Winto Finland’s Amain role is in support of Finland 100 events FPauline and John Kiltinen of Marquette, Centennial Year 2017! The organized by its chapters which now, with the recent Michigan, as recipients of the organization’s Award celebrations started in addition of the newly organized FinnsConnect of Excellence. The bi-annual recognition was January. I had the honor South Florida and just---at press time---Finlandia initiated in 2015, during the 150th anniversary of attending a series of Foundation of Montana in Missoula, now number celebration of the birth of composer Jean Sibelius, to recognize outstanding efforts in the U.S. on events in Minneapolis 54 chapters in 25 states and Washington, D.C. behalf of Finnish and Finnish-American interests, January 11-14 with individuals and achievements. Ambassador Kirsti We provide funding to the chapters to arrange Kauppi, culminating in their own centennial events, and we provide them The inaugural award was presented to the Seattle a Minnesota Orchestra lecturers and musical performers at subsidized Symphony in March, 2015 during its three-week festival, “Luminous Landscapes: The Sibelius concert on January 13 rates. This involvement by affiliated groups is the Symphonies.” and the inauguration of the Traveling Sauna, given only way that we will be able to increase broad the name “Sisu,” on January 14. I understood that awareness of the contributions of Finland and he Kiltinens have long been involved in Finnish- this was the “official” opening of Finland 100. Finnish-Americans, historically and today, to the TAmerican projects and programs in the Upper fabric of life in the United States. Peninsula and with FinnFest USA. Last year, the Republic of Finland designated John as Knight, Finlandia Foundation will recognize Pauline and John Kiltinen The Traveling Sauna started its touring of the U.S. with its Award of Excellence during inn est USA 2017 in First Class, of the Order of the Lion of Finland, and F F right away, heading first to Texas, then to L.A. and We see 2017 shaping up as a year with a multitude September. awarded Pauline the Cross of Merit of the Order of the West Coast at the end of March, and onward in of exciting Finland 100 events all over the U.S. the White Rose of Finland. a year-long tour that will end in Washington, D.C., This will require substantial financial resources. in December. FFN is one of the sponsors. FFN will present the Award of Excellence to the Catch Centenary Lecturers I look forward to working with you in raising the couple in September at FinnFest USA 2017 in inlandia Foundation’s first Finland 100 resources required under the common theme Minneapolis. Together at FinnFest 2017 “Together.” Fsignature event took place in the Lake Worth/ By Jon Saari West Palm Beach area with the Finland 100 Gala at Regards, FFN Trustee and LOY Coordinator the Delray Beach Marriott on February 18. FFN was Embassy Has Array of o date, the five Centenary Lecturers have been one of the major sponsors. A delegation from the Finland 100 Projects Tbooked in about a dozen places around the Finnish Parliament, led by Speaker Maria Lohela, country, from Tucson to Boston, and the Finger honored the gala by its presence. As in Minneapolis he Embassy of Finland in the United States Lakes Finns in upstate New York to the FF chapter a month earlier, a series of events took place in the Ossi Rahkonen Tis playing an active role in the Finland 100 in the mountains of Colorado. area during the February 17-20 timeframe. President celebrations, including the participation by Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi in Minneapolis in In keeping with the Finland 100 “Together” theme, they will appear together at FinnFest USA 2017 in FFN has further Finland 100 signature events January, when the Minnesota Orchestra performed Minneapolis, September 22-23. In two, 90-minute taking place this year, as outlined on page one. a program of Jean Sibelius and Kalevi Aho. And she was there to see Sisu, the Traveling Sauna, begin its periods they will address Finnish independence and journey around the country. The Ambassador will identity as viewed from this side of the Atlantic, attend additional events across the U.S. throughout where our scholars have all made their careers. the year. ollowing a recent Minneapolis screening of the Embassy Communications Coordinator Emilia Fnew Eero Saarinen film and a lecture about Fin- Honkasaari announces several online programs, land in the Protestant Reformation, the city’s public including short video greetings by famous Finnish- is prepped about Finland’s centennial and ready to Americans and friends of Finland such as composer learn about its independence and national identity FFN BOARD Richard Ahola Betsey Norgard Tarja Silverman Mailing address: Kaija Saariaho, artist Eric Aho, performer Taina Elg, in a deeper, more probing way. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] P.O. Box 92046 PRESIDENT TV host Conan O’Brien and Minnesota Wild hockey Dundee, NY Bovey, MN Greystone, NY Pasadena, CA 91109-2046 Centenary Lecturers are available for chapter pro- Ossi Rahkonen player Mikko Koivu. View them on the YouTube [email protected] Dennis M. Anderson grams until June, 2018. Find their bios and pro- Tim Nurvala Anita Häkkilä Smiley FinlandiaFoundation.org channel 100 Friends of Finland. McLean, VA [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] gram descriptions at FinlandiaFoundation.org. FFN Rochester, MN Preston, CT VICE PRESIDENT Gladwyne, PA The newsletter is produced fascinating 12-part series, “Centennial Story Finland 100 grants (up to $1,000 per chapter) may Paul O. Halme Jacqueline Harjula Anne-Mari Paster Hanna Wagner twice yearly by the FFN of Finland” is linked at the Embassy website be used to help with the hosting expenses; details [email protected] A [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Communications Committee: Finland.org. are also online. Solvang, CA Thomaston, ME Lexington, MA Washington, D.C. Jacqueline Harjula, chair; and nd to see them all, in lively interaction, plan a TREASURER Katariina Lehtonen Katariina Lehtonen, Betsey She reminds event sponsors about finland100usa. Dirk Schulbach Teuvo Pulkkinen [email protected] teuvo_pulkkinen@ Norgard, Tarja Silverman com/calendar.html. “The calendar will be updated Atrip to Minneapolis to attend FinnFest USA in [email protected] Contact Finlandia Portland, OR Lake Oswego, OR hotmail.com Foundation National: throughout the year, so please send information September, 2017! San Diego, CA Editing and production Peter Makila Maria Kizirian, Assistant to about your upcoming events to finland100USA@ SECRETARY by FFN Communications [email protected] Jon Saari the Board of Trustees Päivi Anneli Tetri Manager Kath Usitalo gmail.com.” Include the name of the event, date, Lake Worth, FL [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] time and place, a short description and link to the St. Louis, MO Marquette, MI 626.795.2081 event website and photo. 2 3 The Portland Chamber Orchestra is turning 70 in Finland’s centennial year, and plans are underway Grants 2017: Together! to celebrate both anniversaries by reflecting back on the orchestra’s beginnings, history and legacy. To this end, the orchestra will present Northern By Päivi Tetri Sounds: A Nordic Festival, which will include two FFN Trustee multisensory performances featuring the work of Sibelius and other Finnish composers. There will inland will turn 100 this year and the theme established for Finland 100 by be a piano master class for young and emerging Fthe Finnish government is “Together.” As we look forward to this important day, pianists, a recital featuring select Sibelius works, Finns and Finnish-Americans are proud to work together to showcase Finland and and a lecture exploring the Finnish national identity as it emerged through the eyes of Sibelius and his Finnish culture. This year, Finlandia Foundation National has once again had the The Houston International Dance Coalition inner circle. honor of awarding many worthy grants to applicants eager to launch programs was awarded grant funding to cover the costs for and projects that explore our heritage, express aspects of our culture, educate the USA-Houston debut of the Susanna Leinonen Former FFN Lecturer Company, one of Finland’s most critically acclaimed of the Year Carl others about Finland, preserve our common heritage, and celebrate Finland and modern dance companies, at the 2017 Dance Salad Rahkonen is compiling Finnish identity. Festival. The company will perform Romeo and a book on the Finnish- Juliet, choreographed by Susanna Leinonen and American Musical Journey. Dr. Rahkonen, OUR 2017 GRANT RECIPIENTS celebration edition of Jouka Valkama and set to music by Sergei Prokofjev The Otherworld Cycle, with a contemporary score by Kasperi Laine, with his background Sam Houston State University professor and an original Finnish- and Touch of Gravity, choreographed by Susanna in librarianship and linguist Helena Halmari received a grant to American musical Leinonen and set to music by Kasperi Laine. archival research and study the bilingual correspondence between Jean odyssey, to Finland. his formal training in Sibelius and his wife Aino. The study will focus on The work features The Suomi Koulu of Los Angeles organizes folklore and musicology, what their choices of Finnish or Swedish language Finnish and Karelian cultural events twice a year to raise funds for is uniquely qualified to in their personal letters tell us about them and instruments such as programming and education of the local community do this work. Funds were their world in the time before Finland gained its kantele, jouhikko, bells about Finnish culture. Funding was granted to help granted to allow for travel independence. The letters are mainly in Swedish, and overtone flutes. The defray costs for their efforts to preserve Finnish to Finland to study at with Finnish translations. She will also translate group was awarded a language and culture among the children and the Institute of Migration the first volume of letters into English, making them grant to help defray families with ties to Finland, as well as non-Finns in Turku and at the accessible to non-Finnish or Swedish speaking travel costs. interested in learning more about Finland. Folk Music Institute in Sibelius scholars and others interested in Sibelius Kaustinen. and Finnish history. The Raivaaja Finlandia Foundation Berkeley Chapter is Foundation was awarded launching a program of outside lectures at monthly Holly Chernobyl of the The Finnish American Heritage Association of a grant to digitize 100 cultural events at their hall. Lectures about Finnish dance/theater company Ashtabula, Ohio has discovered five silver nitrate years of historical and history, genealogy and film, as well as musical NIGHTPARADE, received film reels of a 1927 concert tour that the Humina culturally significant events, are planned in this centennial year. a grant to travel to Band of Ashtabula made to Finland. One concert material published by Finland to attend a butoh includes Jean Sibelius in the audience. Some of the Raivaaja Publishing Poet Susanna Immonen-Brougham received (a form of Japanese dance) workshop in Helsinki, the reels have deteriorated beyond use and FAHA Company newspaper a travel grant to visit Finland for research and and to organize and perform a butoh procession as requested funds to reproduce the remaining film prior to ceasing publication in 2009. Digital inspiration for a volume of poems tentatively titled part of the Night of the Arts event in Helsinki. Her onto discs to retain a record of this local history. records will preserve the material and make it more A Kalevala for Eva. The poems explore emigration procession will draw inspiration from the Finnish Sales of copies will go toward supporting accessible to scholars and historians. from Finland to Maine, specifically to the town of landscape, and four Finnish artists will participate their museum. West Paris, where the author grew up. The focus with her in the hour-long performance. The East Metro Symphony Orchestra of the Twin of this volume is on the experiences of her great- Rent Romus and Heikki Koskinen have been Cities received a grant for Traditions: A Celebration grandmother. The author finds connection with the The Bay Area Book Festival has become a literary invited by the Kerava Jazz Festival to bring a special of Finnish Music. The program will focus on music immigrant experience and Kalevala themes. tradition in the San Francisco area, drawing tens inspired by Finnish folk legends and the Kalevala, of thousands of people for indoor including music by Sibelius, Uuno Klami and Filmmaker Kristin Ojaniemi keynotes, interviews and panels Erkki Melartin. received funding to produce the featuring hundreds of leading celebratory documentary 100 Years authors from around the world. Yvonne Hiipakka Lockwood received funding of Settler’s Co-op. It tells the local International understanding, on behalf of FinnFest USA 2017 for Finnish history and mission of the co-op in tolerance and the experience of American Folk Artists: Definition, Presentation, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and migration will be among the major Commemoration of active Finnish Folk Arts Traditions the history of the co-operative store themes of the 2017 festival. Funding in America. The project will showcase traditional movement in the Midwest. Settler’s was granted to bring author Pajtim Finnish folk art traditions as American forms of Co-op, founded in 1917 by Finnish- Statovci, of Finland, to the festival expression. This project will support 10-12 folk Americans, is a monument to the to showcase a modern day Finnish artists from around the United States by providing heritage of the area. It is fitting that literary voice to a wide variety of lodging and transportation. this mainstay of life in the town of people who may be unfamiliar with Bruce Crossing is celebrating its 100 Finland and Finnish literature. years in the same year as Finland’s centennial.

5 The Historical Society of Cheshire County has trip to Finland which will result in a mixed media planned six educational initiatives under the art exhibition, gallery talk and workshops in hand auspices of its program Finnish Culture and the printed textiles, emerging technologies and digital Monadnock Region of New Hampshire. Funding was story telling, and Finnish folk himmeli crafts. It granted to create programming specifically related will be presented at the Nordic Center in Duluth, to the history and culture of the local Finnish Minnesota and beyond. community. It includes a teacher workshop on immigration experiences, a “wonder box” of artifacts The New York Scandia Symphony was awarded a for use in the schools, the creation of a curriculum grant to bring music from Finnish composers to the on the theme of immigration, projects to preserve popular 12th Annual Scandinavian Music Festival Finnish culture, and community gatherings around in New York’s Fort Tryon Park. FFN Performer of the special events and festivals. Year Pirjo Polari-Khan will share her music, poetry, The North Stars Chamber Orchestra received a in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this study seeks to songs and puppetry with children and the young travel grant to take 17-20 young musicians from reveal if substrate Finnish effects in the dialect are The American-Scandinavian Foundation received at heart. Bellingham, Washington to its Sister Ciy of Vaasa, present and to what degree and direction they funding to support Independent Finland—Images of The RaumArs Artist in Residence Program in Finland. Concerts performed in Vaasa will honor are changing. Modern Women. The exhibition is organized by the Rauma, Finland has offered a residency to Ron the official Finland Centennial theme “Together.” Ateneum Museum/Finnish National Gallery and The Nordic Heritage Museum in Seattle is will be shown at Scandinavia House: The Nordic Saunders for his project Artist Restraint. RaumArs Funds were given to Ralph Tuttila for Keeping pleased to offer its second annual Nordic Culinary Center in New York City. It presents the work of asks artists to engage and participate with the the Beat—Finnish Music and Dance in America. Conference. It will feature acclaimed Finnish four of Finland’s most celebrated painters: Helene community, and he will initiate a new body of Funding will go to forming an intergenerational chef Sasu Laukkonen, with fellow chefs from Schjerfbeck, Ellen Thesleff, Sigrid Schauman and work where artists come together and create and intercultural ensemble of experienced and Denmark and Iceland. Chef Laukkonen will offer Elga Sesemann. The exhibition explores the topic drawing collaboratively. To ensure that this project beginning musicians to share, learn and perform two distinct programs, one engaging participants from the perspectives of engages as many people traditional and contemporary Finnish social dance with an experience in traditional Finnish baking women as the subjects of as possible, multiple opportunities for public music. Musicians will be instructed with folk/oral and the other a survey of modern culinary trends the paintings as well as method, print music and recordings. The ensemble and practices. In addition, the Nordic chefs will of female artists as the interaction will be will perform at the local Finland100 Concert/Dance collaborate on a banquet to celebrate the conference creators of those images. established. Exhibitions weekend in the Twin Cities. and the Finnish Centennial. Funds were granted to in Rauma, Helsinki and offset the costs of bringing Chef Laukkonen to the Kate Hodges owns an Atlanta, Georgia are The Keravan Mieslaulajat (pictured above) has conference. urban farm in central planned. been invited by the Embassy of Finland to travel Ohio that grows and from Kerava to Washington, D.C. to participate in Olli Hirvonen is a former Finlandia Foundation sells culinary herbs, The Vantaa Gymnastics Finland 100 celebrations in early December. The National Performer of the Year. He is the winner of native and superfood club, Team Ajattomat, purpose of the visit is to showcase Finnish male the 2016 Montreux Jazz Guitar Competition and berries and foraged wild received a travel grant to choir music and to act as “singing ambassadors” one of the most accomplished Nordic musicians of edibles. FFN provided a showcase their project for Finnish culture. Funds to help defray the cost of his generation. He received a travel grant to bring grant for equipment and Motional Greetings from travel were granted to the choir. his quartet to Bellingham, Washington for Vappu professional services to Finland. The group celebrations in this centennial year. produce a series of short has been invited to The Kaleva Historical Society of Kaleva, Michigan videos about Finnish wild Washington, D.C. in received a grant for Steam Up and Take the Plunge. Fintiaanien Mailla (In the Land of the Finndians) is a food culture. They will June to present multiple Funds were sought to construct a (non-functioning) well-received and widely acknowledged non-fiction be shareable through performances at a day- demonstration sauna building behind the museum book in Finland. Published by WSOY, it has sold out social media, still long event at the National to acquaint visitors with traditional sauna practices of its third printing. The work is an exploration of photographs, a workshop Mall. The team will also and culture. The sauna will be constructed of the lives of the descendants of Finnish immigrants and presentation, with organize Finnish outdoor materials and dimensions and Native Americans the goal of transporting games and competitions common to early in the Upper Peninsula Finnish wild food culture for children. Other events Kaleva saunas, and will of Michigan, Northern to Ohio. and performances are incorporate all of the Minnesota, Wisconsin planned during their stay. elements of a traditional and the north side of Greg Isola was awarded a grant for completing sauna building. Lake Superior in Canada. and launching his book Modern Finnish Genealogy, Ensemble Mise-En, a New York-based ensemble in which he captures forty years of family history of young musicians, will present CONNECTIONS: Authors Maria Seppälä th Wil Rankinen, professor and Katja Kettu and research and genealogical study. In addition to Finland-All Generations-100 Anniversary, in which of Communication photographer Meeri personal family history, the author will include the group will perform the work of three living Sciences and Disorders Koutaniemi received information about associated and related genealogy Finnish composers representing each generation of at Grand Valley State funding supporting of other northern peoples. Generalized information music artists working today. The performance will University, received translation of the book for genealogical research will also be included. be held at Scandinavia House in November 2017. funding for his project into English. Finnish American Lisa Fitzpatrick, Alison Aune and Kirsten The Ameriikan Poijat Finnish Brass Band has Influence on Michigan’s Aune received funding for Luova Taide Yhdessä: been performing and preserving Finnish Brass Upper Peninsula English. Creative Art Together (pictured above). The goal of septet music for over 25 years. A travel grant was By examining the speech this project is to bring 100 years of independence given for a two-week tour of Finland in July. The production of how in Finnish art and design to Minnesota. The grant group will also be doing a series of concerts and Finnish Americans talk will cover an intensive research/documentation dances throughout the upper Midwest in 2017.

6 7 The Finnish Language School in Washington, Funding was D.C. received funding to upgrade and modernize given for Finnish learning resources. The award will supplement Classical grant funding from other sources to pay one Music Past and person’s salary for one semester. It will also Present, a series investigate digital learning resources and create of four chamber a more engaging and personalized learning concerts to be environment that might become a teaching model performed in for other suomi-koulus, as well. Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. Marja Eloheimo has created a three-part project Opportunities entitled Presenting Finland in Image and Word: to hear Finnish Perspectives Through Time of a Finnish-American art song and Woman and Scholar. Ms. Eloheimo was granted clarinet solo funding to support compiling and producing in DVD and chamber format images, audio, poetry and music gathered music with over more than 30 years. This program will include piano are rare, a live presentation as well as DVDs offered for and the goal of sale. Finally, Ms. Eloheimo will travel to Montreal this series is to to participate in the Society of Ethnobiology promote greater Conference, where she is planning to give a recognition of the Twin Cities choir director Eeva Savolainen requested Museum, interview local residents of Finnish presentation on the power of exploring heritage to contribution this music has made to world culture. grant funding for the creation of the Suomi Finland descent, and research town records to identify help cultivate a sense of place and identity Former Finlandia Foundation Performer of the Year 100 Chorus (above), a group of up to 100 singers, to when and where Finnish immigrants settled in in cultures. Craig Randal Johnson will accompany each event. present a concert of classical music in partnership southern Vermont. They will identify farmsteads with the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra in and homes that were occupied by Finns, and Pianist Kati Eriikka Eeva Sallinen Simard and Essi Kivitie are October 2017. The main goal of this concert is determine whether Finnish-built structures are still Arikoski-Johnson was at work on a book tentatively titled Oman to engage Finns and non-Finns in the singing on the properties. The buildings will be measured, awarded a travel grant to Onnensa Käsikirjoittajat—Suomalaisten Naisten of Finnish choral music in concert, and making photographed and mapped to preserve this history present a classical piano Onnistumistarinoita Maailmalta (Writers of Their that music accessible to all in the Twin Cities of Finnish construction. concert at Gethsemane Own Happiness—Success Stories of Finnish Women community. Translations and notes in the concert Lutheran Church in Overseas). The book, to be published by Otava program will help the audience understand the Viipurin Lauluveikot is the oldest Finnish male Virginia, Minnesota as Publishing Company, Ltd., will study the lives music and its connection to history. choir, known for celebrating its Karelian heritage. part of their local Finland of 14-15 Finnish women through the medium of The Finlandia Foundation Suomi Chapter received 100 event. Ms. Arikoski- interviews. The authors were given a travel grant for University of California, Berkeley Institute a travel grant to help bring this unique choir to Johnson will perform the conducting research. of European Studies-Nordic Studies received a the U.S. to present centennial concerts across the music of four Finnish grant for a program entitled Celebrating 100 Years western United States. composers: Jean Sibelius, Marianne Wargelin requested funding on behalf of Finnish Independence. This program will entail Einojuhani Rautavaara, of FinnFest USA 2017 to bring the five Finlandia several panel discussions on the topics of Finland’s Grant funding for the Finland Centennial Tour Einar Englund and Leevi Foundation Centenary Lecturers to the September history and current society and arts. The speakers 2017 was given to the organizing steering committee Madetoja. event in Minneapolis to lecture individually and to will be visiting Finnish scholars. UCB is working for financial support of the Marquette City Band participate in a panel discussion on North American together with the Finlandia Foundation Berkeley and the Marquette Choral Society performance tour The Finnish American Perspectives on Finnish Independence and Identity. Chapter to develop the to Finland. Marquette, Cultural Corporation A travel grant was awarded. program. Michigan is Sister received funding to City to Kajaani, help defray costs for The Finlandia Foundation New York Metropolitan The Vermont Finland and these a luncheon program Chapter was granted funding for a street fair and Division for Historic musical groups, series to be held at the evening party to celebrate Finland 100. These very Preservation received totaling 120 plus Holocaust Memorial visible events will feature food and many types of a grant to launch a performers, will follow Center in Farmington Hills, Michigan. One program vendors, as well as performances. This will be the project to research, separate itineraries, will focus on early history of Jews settling in or largest mass gathering of the Finnish community identify and document culminating in a relocating to Finland, another on World War II. undertaken in New York City. examples of buildings joint performance in A third program will be coordinated with the constructed by Kajaani where they Cranbrook School and tailored to those interested in The House of Finland of San Diego received Finnish immigrants will be welcomed by Eliel Saarinen and his architecture. partial funding for concerts and receptions to celebrate Finland 100: two concerts in April by in Southern Vermont Kajaani’s Sister City renowned kantele player Ida Elina, and Sibelius during the first half representatives. of the 20th century. Inspiration by cellist Jussi Makkonen and pianist Congratulations to Nazig Azezian in October. They will review the Vermont Finnish- all of our 2017 American Society grant recipients! archives held by the Black River Academy

8 9 Board Meets in Windy City

inlandia Foundation trustees headed to FChicago for the spring board meeting Friday- Saturday, March 10-11, preceded by committee meetings on Thursday. The agenda included committee reports on 2017 grant and scholarship award recommendations as well as reviews of all FFN programs, including Performer of the Year and Centenary Lecturers, Soiva International Music Camp at Concordia College in June, and A Post-Concert the matching scholarships available to students attending Salolampi Language Village. FFN Visit with Salonen also offers travel grants to assist students with Satu Mikkola, with Seattle Symphony conductor Thomas Daus- transportation costs to both Soiva and Salolampi. gaard after the orchestra’s salute to Sibelius in 2015, was instrumental to the success of many FFN programs such as the The board discussed plans for FFN Finland 100 Sibelius 150 Jubilee. Signature Events and grants to chapters to assist hen FFN trustees get together each spring and evening following adjournment of their Saturday with their centennial celebrations this year. Many thanks to Jacqueline Harjula for her four- Wfall to discuss the business of the nonprofit session. year service as secretary. Between the Finland 100 efforts and its regular, organization and plan for its future, the board Members of the board and the Chicago area affiliate annual programs, the board approved distribution his was the last meeting for a valued board selects a meeting location where there is a Finlandia FASM mingled at a reception before heading to of some $325,000 in 2017. An important agenda Tmember, Satu Mikkola, who stepped down after Foundation chapter. This provides an important the Chicago Symphony Center for a premiere item was fundraising and new initiatives to meet the serving Finlandia Foundation in many capacities, opportunity for the trustees to meet and socialize performance of Esa-Pekka Salonen’s Cello Concerto, increased financial commitments FFN has made in including treasurer for six years and as longtime with local members. The March meeting in Chicago which he wrote expressly for Yo-Yo Ma. The cellist pursuit of its mission. Performer of the Year coordinator. She continues to was no exception. performed the work with the Chicago Symphony The board elected its slate of officers for the term be active in Finnish-American organizations and With the help of Oscar Forsman, president of the Orchestra under the baton of Salonen. projects in the Pacific Northwest, and is regional 2017-2019: Finnish-American Society of the Midwest (FASM), ot only was it a special experience to be in the speaker, Finnish Expatriate Parliament, Region President: Ossi Rahkonen FFN trustees and guests enjoyed a most memorable audience for this rare event, but afterward the United States and Latin America. Her institutional N Vice President: Paul O. Halme maestro, who is N Patron, graciously met privately knowledge of FFN and insights---not to mention her FF Treasurer: Dirk Schulbach with the Finnish-American group and engaged in bright smile---will be missed. Performer of the Year Now Secretary: Paivi Tetri a relaxed exchange with members. Many thanks Available Into 2018 to Oscar and the members of FASM who made it By Betsey Norgard happen. FFN Trustee and POY Coordinator Post-Joint Chapter Meeting Work Underway t its spring meeting in Chicago, the Performer of t has been six months since the Finlandia Athe Year Committee decided to extend the term IFoundation Joint Chapter Meeting was held of current POY Pirjo Polari-Khan through August 31, in Washington, D.C., the first assembly of FFN 2018. This will allow everyone to take advantage of affiliated organizations since 2006. Representatives both FFN’s ongoing programs as well as the special from 34 chapters---two thirds of our membership- opportunities available during the Finland 100 year. ---gathered for informational sessions, informal The POY Committee will also use this time for reflec- exchange, roundtable discussions and socializing. tion and conversation about the program itself, now The follow-up evaluation forms provided FFN with more than 20 years old: its purpose, popularity and good input for planning the next such session possible future directions. which, according to feedback, should be scheduled for the year 2021---every five years---if not more irjo’s programs delight audiences of all ages often. Pthrough puppetry, storytelling and song, from six-year-old children to all who are young at heart. At its meeting in March, the board reviewed During the centennial year, Pirjo has incorporat- suggestions that arose from the sessions, several ed Finnish history and the richness of the Finnish of which are being addressed and will be relayed to language into her programs, aiming to guide children chapter representatives. Members had an opportunity to network at the 2016 Joint and adults—both Finnish and Finnish-American— ome members have already taken advantage Chapter Meeting of FFN affilliated organizations. into greater interest in Finnish culture. She is happy of one action item that has been implemented to talk with program hosts about tailoring content S as the board and committee chairs (not the entire to provide an easy way for chapters to interact: for their audience. chapter membership). a private Facebook page where chapter leaders Pirjo describes her program in a short video; find the may ask questions, share ideas and exchange For more information and to request access or link on the POY page at FinlandiaFoundation.org. information. The page is classified as a secure submit names to the Facebook group contact t) For more information or to book an appearance, FFN Past President Anita Smiley (lef visits with FASM member “secret” Facebook page, and is open only to FFN Communications Manager Kath Usitalo at Karen Maki be ore the Chicago Symphony concert eaturing Yo- chapters should contact POY Coordinator Betsey f f individuals in chapter leadership positions such [email protected]. Yo Ma, conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen. Norgard at [email protected]. 10 11 FFN SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS 2017

cholarship Chair and FFN Trustee Hanna SWagner and a committee of volunteers evaluated applications and awarded scholarships to 14 students in the U.S. and Finland. 1 2 3 4 5 6 on campus: an all-female 1. LISBET BÄCK, a studied at Sibelius State University. a cappella group, and Academy and Folkwang 11. TUOMAS Finnish immigrant of He plans to work is a second- a mixed-voiced chorus. UdK in Europe, and is now TOMUNEN over 12 years, resides in areas related to year Ph.D. student in During the summer Ingrid training at Aaron Copland in North Texas where climate change, Finance and Economics at works as a counselor School of Music with Nina she says she has “an environmental Columbia Business School at Salolampi Finnish Lelchuk. Markus has amazing opportunity to protection, social in New York. Prior to his Language Village, where been soloist of Joutseno pursue my childhood justice and doctoral studies, Tuomas she has been a camper Art Summer, Wratislavia, dream career here in the sustainability, and received his master’s or counselor for the last St. Peter’s Festival and U.S. as a police officer.” pursue a master’s degree in economics from 13 years. She continues Queens College Chamber Lisbet, a sergeant with degree and doctoral Aalto University, Finland. her study of Finnish at a department in Tarrant orchestras, and the studies. His goal Harvard, and this year County, says, “My passion QC Symphonic Wind is to become a 12. LAURA has added Swedish is a is to provide high quality Ensemble, and performed university professor TUOMAINEN language study. In the master’s student at the service by serving and at international festivals 7 8 9 10 and researcher future, she hopes to University of Eastern protecting the public. I am and Mannes, LeFrak involved in public pursue graduate studies Finland majoring in pursuing my education and Carnegie Halls. He at the High Museum of policy formation. “In in Scandinavia. Finnish language, with in Criminal Justice at was a Solo Piano Fellow Art in Atlanta, where my free time, I learn minors in literature, Lamar University to at Music Academy of the she developed and more Finnish, play 4. VILMA JAAMURU subject teacher’s improve my capabilities was born in Keller, Texas West in Santa Barbara assisted in curating the piano, share pedagogical studies, to give back and pursue three years after her in summer 2015, and is 20 exhibitions during time with friends, and Finnish as a second my chosen career in law parents moved from Oulu, excited to participate in her five years there. explore Finland, and language. She will enforcement.” Finland. At the University Chautauqua Institution’s She received a BA in travel when I have spend the academic year of Minnesota Twin Cities Piano Program in Art History from the the possibility. I am 2. HANNAH upstate New York this 2017–18 in the Fulbright is a third she is working on a University of Georgia in also an active singer BAGDASAR July. He is considering foreign language teaching year undergraduate at the bachelor of sciences in 2011. in a community Mannes School of Music assistant program at the University of California chemical engineering, and choir.” at The New School and 7. JONATHAN University of Minnesota Berkeley, majoring plans to earn a minor in is a dual Manhattan School of KILPELA 10. JAAKOV in Minneapolis. “My in Legal Studies with biochemistry. “When I am citizen of the U.S. and 11 12 13 will tasks there are teaching, not focused on my studies, Music for a Master SCHULMAN minors in Public Policy Finland, and grew up attend Columbia assisting and studying I enjoy spending my of Music in Piano and Scandinavia. “As in a bilingual household. University for the Master some courses of my time playing intramural Performance. 8. MIKELA MARY challenges of dance. She part of the Scandinavian After graduating from in International Affairs choice. I enjoy studying soccer and volunteering is a ELSA NYLANDER- plans to become a physical minor I have had the 6. MARIA KELLY Michigan Tech in 2014, program, where he plans linguistics, and will at the Finnish Language half-Finnish graduate FRENCH, who is therapist specializing opportunity to study he taught science for to study international become a teacher of School of Minnesota like student at Columbia studying exercise science, in dance and sports Finnish in a classroom two years at Jeffers High food security in the Finnish as a second I did back home with University in the Modern kinesiology and dance at injuries. She wants to help setting, which led to my School in Upper Michigan. framework of nonprofits language.” the Finnish Language The College at Brockport, individuals, dancers and Foreign Language and Art: Critical & Curatorial “In August 2016, I moved and intergovernmental School of North Texas. I State University of New athletes recover from and was Area Studies Fellowship Studies master’s to Finland with my organizations. At 13. PAUL VOGEL also enjoy reading and York, was born, raised, prevent future injuries so born in the U.S. to Finnish last summer in Helsinki program. Specializing wife, Alina, to begin my Columbia, he aims listening to music by and attended school that they may live healthy, parents, and moved to and Turku. Finnish has in contemporary studies at the University to merge his previous Overwerk. In the future, I in Chapel Hill, North active and fulfilling lives. Finland when he was been such a unique, but photography, her thesis of Jyväsyklä, pursuing research experience hope to study in Finland if Carolina. Her mother, seven. He and his young defining part of my college will consider the concept a master’s degree in 9. JACK RÄISÄNEN on food policy and his not as an undergraduate from Joensuu, Finland, friends made films, in experience, and has of memory through items educational sciences. of Cokato, Minnesota is exposure to the practice of then as a graduate student met her U.S.-born father English, he says, although allowed me to make closer we leave behind, and how My master’s thesis will working on his Bachelor international development earning my master’s.” in Helsinki. Mikela most knew just a few connections to my family those traces are altered focus on discourse and of Natural Resources with microeconomic inherited her mother’s words. “I guess we were in Finland.” when the individual is argumentation in Finnish of Sustainable Coastal analysis, econometrics, , not present or known. love of dance and studied Management at Novia aiming for international of 5. MARKUS KAITILA science classrooms. trade policy and financial 3.INGRID GOETZ a Helsinki native, is a Prior to enrolling at ballet and trained in University of Applied distribution.” Paul Saint Paul, Minnesota, is In my free time I enjoy management. prizewinning concert Columbia, Maria was the North Carolina, New York Sciences in Ekenäs, followed his passion in the a sophomore at Harvard playing the piano, singing pianist lauded for his curatorial assistant of City and Finland. The Finland. He is also undergraduate program of University studying first tenor in Mieskuoro artistic substance, Photography & Exhibitions physical and emotional earning credit toward a Media Producing at Turku design in the department Sirkat, cycling, cross- awareness of form and demands of ballet resulted bachelor’s degree in liberal of History of Art and country skiing and racing crystalline clarity. He marathons.” in her strong desire to studies from St. Cloud Architecture. She sings understand the human in two vocal ensembles physical form and 12 13 Arts Academy, and worked 1. ANTTI LUHTALA is a in advertising before Helsinki-based third-year Chapter News: Welcome, FinnsConnect South Florida! applying to the University associate in the capital of Southern California markets and securities School of Cinematic Arts. practice of a Finnish “Now I am in my second law firm. He holds an semester, being taught by LL.M. degree from the amazing faculty, many University of Helsinki and whom have Academy M.Sc. (Econ.) degree from 1 2 Awards on their shelves, Aalto University School in studio-like facilities of Business, with a study that are unparalleled abroad semester at the to anywhere else. It is University of Southern truly humbling, and at California, Marshall the same time, I feel that School of Business in Los being here is taking me Angeles. He is now in the one step closer to where I Doctor of Laws program at hope I’ll be one day.” the University of Helsinki, and in August 2017 will enter Harvard Law School’s one-year LL.M. program. “Harvard offers lorida is now home to one of the oldest and The group had a booth at the Midnight Sun Festival a truly unique access the newest Finlandia Foundation chapters. in Lake Worth in March, and plans a fun-filled to the world’s leading F P. J.C. 3 4 The Florida Chapter based in Lantana has been calendar of events throughout its inaugural year, teaching and research in affiliated with FFN since 1954, and now FFN including a Suomi 100 Vappu Picnic, Ruska Festival LINDFORS my fields of interest, and U.S. Court of Appeals to both pursue intriguing welcomes FinnsConnect South Florida as its 53rd and picnic, Finland Independence Day-Suomi 100 LEGAL I really look forward to for the Second Circuit, courses in my field and chapter in 25 states and Washington, D.C. celebration, and Christmas activities for children probably one of the most Sullivan & Worcester engage with high-level The mission of FinnsConnect South FL is to “create and adults. FinnsConnect South FL hosts Florida STUDIES FUND exciting and inspiring LLP, and Columbia Law practitioners.” Experience Panthers hockey watch parties and game nights. years of my life.” School. After graduating gained in Finland includes an environment that fosters and conserves Finnish culture through events and networking in the Check out their activities at their website, ertti Lindfors, a 2. AATOS SOHAGEN from Fordham and clerking at the highest taking the New York bar court of the European Miami-Dade and Broward counties area.” Kati finnsconnect.com, and Facebook (FinnsConnect- Pretired Finnish- graduated with law Mäkinen serves as president. South-FL). American attorney degrees (LL.B and LL.M) exam, Mari will stay in Union and working the city, working as an pro bono for the peace in San Francisco, from the University of Helsinki in 2013, and attorney. She is secretary mediation organization established a immediately went to of the Finnish American CMI, founded by Finland’s scholarship fund work at an international Chamber of Commerce, former President and for American law business law firm in and assists Finnish Nobel Peace Prize winner, LAFF Warrior Survives students to study in Helsinki. He has long been companies in accelerating Martti Ahtisaari. their business in the U.S. ScanFest Adventure interested in studying for Pirita is enrolled in the Finland, and Finnish In her free time, Mari loves an LL.M. degree in the Harvard Negotiation ikings overran Kingsman Park in Thousand students to study law to solve jigsaw puzzles and United States because, and Mediation Clinical VOaks April 1-2 for the 42nd Scandinavian keeps dreaming of her own in the U.S. he says, the laws and Program, is a board Festival at California Lutheran University, reports sailboat. Los Angeles Finlandia Foundation member Corey Four students benefit legal practices from the member of the Harvard U.S. have a huge impact Frederickson (with helmet). from his generosity 4. PIRITA TUULIA Women Law Association, on the way lawyers think and vice president of the “All raiding camps were well represented as in 2017: everywhere, including VIRTANEN is specializing in Harvard Law European hundreds gathered from Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Finland. “I look very Law Association. Her Denmark and Finland,” he says. “I arrived at camp much forward to learning international dispute resolution (mediation, goal is to “effect change for armor fitting and training and met up with the about the U.S. legal in Finland’s dispute Rus (roose) Commander. Before I could go raiding system at the University of negotiation, diplomacy) resolution culture and the outposts for food like aebelskivers, meatballs California Berkeley.” and leadership in her pursuit of an LL.M. promote peace worldwide.” and lingonberry, I had to learn invading Viking 3. MARI TOMUNEN degree at Harvard Law strategies by playing a game called tafl (toffle).” is pursuing her LL.M. School. “I have had an Like chess, the objective of tafl is to capture the degree in Corporate Law exceptional opportunity king. “I played a few games and failed miserably, at Fordham University. and was then sent onward to the weavers’ camp.” Since moving to New York in 2015, she has aria Kizirian of the Finlandia Foundation worked for the Honorable MNational office spoke at ScanFest, which is Judge Denny Chin at the sponsored by the Scandinavian American Cultural and Historical Foundation with support from Cal Lutheran. Sunday’s ScanFest program included a multi-national church service with prayers for world peace at Samuelson Chapel. 14 Welcome Mat is Out at San “Sisu and Creativity” at Connecticut Historical Society Diego’s House of Finland

By Teuvo Pulkkinen By Stan Karro FFN Trustee and House of Finland Vice President Finnish American Heritage Society

he House of Finland in San Diego became the n Friday, March 24, the board and members T50th chapter of Finlandia Foundation National Oof the Finnish American Heritage Society of in 2015. Despite being a fairly new affiliate of FFN, Canterbury attended the opening reception at the House of Finland (HOF) has a long history in the Connecticut Historical Society’s (CHS) exhibit “Sisu and Creativity: Finnish Cultural Heritage in San Diego. Connecticut.” The exhibition is open to the public HOF was formed in 1939 when the American Red until May 6, 2017, at the CHS facility in Hartford. Cross asked a group of local Finnish Americans to gather civilian supplies to be sent to Finland to help The event helps to provide a focus on Finland’s alleviate WWII-caused shortages. HOF has been in 100th anniversary of independence this year, as well as the 30th anniversary of our Finnish continuous operation ever since. American Heritage Society. A third tribute is the oday the objectives of HOF are to promote 25th anniversary of FinnFunn Weekends held in the Tliberty, peace and better understanding among Northeast Region. peoples of all nations, races and ethnic groups; to he evening was hosted by the administration and promote the development of our Finnish culture; Tstaff at the historical society and included Lynne to promote social activities among its members; to Williamson, director of the state’s Cultural Arts instill the principles of liberty, charity, justice; and House of Finland officers are President Eeva Syvanen (left), Program. She has been instrumental in obtaining to provide a meeting ground for Finnish people and Vice President and FFN Board Member Teuvo Pulkkinen, and extensive grants for FAHS for sauna construction, friends of Finland. Secretary Kirsi Alen-Uronen. weaving, wood carving, fiddling and birch bark he exhibition represents the Finnish immigrants weaving. Anita Smiley and Stan Karro of FAHS living in Connecticut over the last century. HOF belongs to the House of Pacific Relations (HPR), delivered opening remarks, and Finnish music was T Research conducted by architectural historian a nonprofit community organization in San Diego. performed by Hannu Makipuro and Saul Ahola. HPR was founded in 1935, and is dedicated to Rachel Carley in the 2014 publication “Our furthering cooperation and understanding between A cooperative arrangement with CHS and FAHS, the Stories, Our Places, Finnish Cultural Heritage national groups in the United States. HPR consists exhibition consists of extensive art works, images, in Connecticut” is shared in detail in placards West Central Michigan describing the daily lives, culture and traditions of of 34 national groups, many of which have their documents of community history, rare historic Finns and Finnish-Americans. Chapter Turns 30 own cottage in Balboa Park. publications, a sauna display and illustrations of farming life. Many items are on loan from the or more about the exhibit go to CHS.org; learn he international cottages, HOF being one of FAHS museum and archives of the Finnish Hall in F about about FAHS at fahs-ct.org. Tthem, are furnished and staffed by native Canterbury. groups and offer visitors a delightful window into each country’s culture, history and traditions. The cottages are open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. Northeastern Minnesota Finland 100 Team Meets every Saturday and Sunday. FN members attended the Northeastern Congressman Rick Nolan’s office, in which he is In addition, HOF is active in the HPR program of FMinnesota Finland 100 group’s monthly meeting quoted: “2017 is a big year for Finland and Finnish- special events for Balboa Park, including an Ethnic at the historic Kaleva Hall in Virginia. Americans who are gathering together to celebrate Food Fair on Memorial Day weekend and Lawn 100 years of Independence. I am a founding co- Programs on Sunday afternoons from March to mid- In the front row, from second left, are Mary Ann Gomsi of Finnish- chair of the Friends November. On the outdoor stage in the cottage area, Americans and of Finland Caucus each national group has its own program featuring Friends (Hibbing in Washington, the songs and dances of that nation. Chapter), FFN Trustee D.C. The Friends Betsey Norgard of the of Finland Caucus he International Christmas Festival is the serves to strengthen biggest event of the year. During the two-day Twin Cities Chapter, T and Fran Lahti, the ties between U.S. celebration on the first weekend of December, over and Finland and 350,000 visitors come to Balboa Park to welcome Hibbing Chapter. Her husband, Ken Lahti, to serve as a forum the holiday season and to enjoy the international The Finnish American Society of West Central Michigan is is behind her (in the for dialogue among celebrating its 30th anniversary as an organization, and this atmosphere, ethnic foods and festivities at dark sweater). members of Congress year marks its decade-long affiliation with Finlandia Foundation each cottage. and the government National. A grand time was had by all who attended the St. The photo appeared of Finland.” Urho’s Day Celebration on March 11, including several folks in the newsletter who have been members of the group for 25-plus years. Marie issued by Minnesota Fowler is president of the society. Congratulations!

16 17 Florida’s Finland 100 Fun Began in 2016... FFN Sponsors Fall A Hot Tale Sibelius Inspiration Tour from the Sauna Trail

By Kaarina Langeland (salmon) and new dill usic has always been a major focus of Fin- By Corey Frederickson FFFC President potatoes, accompanied Mlandia Foundation. Its first scholarships were Member, Finlandia Foundation Los Angeles by a serving of Finnish awarded to music students, and FFN sponsors Soiva ince there will be a vast assortment of Finland vodka. Music Camp for young people each June. Finlandia his past weekend I caught up with the Traveling 100 celebrations during the course of this year, S Keijo Raikkonen of the Foundation Patrons Jean Sibelius and Esa-Pekka Sauna in Duarte, California. To enjoy the Finlandia Foundation Florida Chapter kicked off T Florida Male Singers, lent Salonen are giants of Finnish culture. Finnleo sauna, I first had to ride my Marin hybrid its Finland 100 activities early, on November 18, his strong baritone to a bicycle from the South Pasadena Metro Link station 2016, at our Annual Gala. “Vappu in November” It’s natural that a major initiative this year is the German drinking song, 14 miles along the bike route that follows the course incorporated Finland’s May first spring celebration Finland 100 Music Program, featuring past Per- and guest Madeline Bahr to the City of Duarte, where the sauna was located. by introducing our American friends to the only formers of the Year and outstanding talent from delivered a Broadway carnival-type of Finnish celebration. Vappu suits Finland. The U.S. tour by pop kantele player Ida After finally arriving, I changed into more show tune, while yours Florida very well in November because we always Elina is a FFN Signature Event of 2017. comfortable attire so I could experience the fire’s truly received a serenade experience spring! ellist Jussi Makkonen and pianist Nazig Azezian warmth and the steam from the cool waters that I to FFFC by Hans performed in February at the Finland 100 Gala poured over the hot rocks! It was invigorating as the Gunnar Penttinen’s lively Finnish accordion music Haggblom. C greeted more than 150 guests to Lantana’s Atlantis in Florida, and will return to the U.S. this fall with warmth from the fire and steam thawed my chilled n informative Country Club. The grand ballroom was beautifully their Sibelius Inspiration multi–media program; plan body from that day’s freezing temperatures. After presentation by decorated with colorful balloons, May Day pompoms A to catch a performance: being fully refreshed, I continued on my last few Dennis Anderson about and spring flowers. Anna-Lisa Jakobsson, opera In cap typically worn at October 14 – Seattle miles to the end of the line in Azusa, California. Finlandia Foundation singer and FFFC board member, led the ceremonies; Vappu, Anna-Lisa Jakobsson October 17 – Portland, Oregon National’s Soiva Music efore leaving I said my goodbyes to Chief Sauna her infectious enthusiasm enlivened the audience and Dr. Edgar Covarrubias October 22 – San Diego Camp was of particular Master Jouko Sipilä, Chief Sauna Ambassador and provided a warm ambiance. take a spin on the October 26 – Denver B interest to some of our Risto Sivula, and Finnish Trade Commissioner Suvi dance floor. October 29 – Newton (Boston area) ur dear Consul, Peter Makila, gave a humorous young musical guests. Aherto. Thank you all for a great day! Kiitos! November 11 – New York City Ospeech praising the ladies (Puhe Naiselle). The lively, invigorating Vappu parade around the Dinner included a Vappu favorite, gravad lax ballroom was an exhilarating ending to the evening. Find details on the appearances at the Finland 100 calendar at FinlandiaFoundation.org. Photos by Timo Vainionpaa, usasuomeksi.com ...and Continues in 2017 FFN Finland 100 Grants Support Variety of Activities By Anneli Ganger and Kaarina Langeland, FFFC Hymn, all 11 verses!), “Jääkärimarssi,” and our beloved “Finlandia.” entennial events in recognition of Finland’s River Finns in Minnesota are applying grant monies ith the theme “From Kalevala to An CDeclaration of Independence in 1917 are toward events that include traditional food, music, Independent Finland: Images, Tales and ost entertaining was the performance of scenes underway across the U.S., hosted by organizations and the chance to experience the hot sauna. W affiliated with Finlandia Foundation National. Music,” February’s FFFC annual meeting drew Mfrom the Kalevala (left) by Suvi Manner, Karen FFN is a sponsor of Sisu, the roving mascot that is a record attendance of over 80 people. Chapter Hoffecker and Brian Smith. Dressed in national Several chapters winning fans and generating media coverage and President Kaarina Langeland’s presentation covered garb, they brought the characters to life and the have already interest in Finnish America along the way. the most significant years of Finnish history, audience enjoyed the antics of Aino, Väinämöinen, taken advantage ere’s a sampling of Finland 100 activities to 1809-1917, from being a Grand Duchy of Russia Ilmarinen and others, performed with passion and of the FFN Hdate, with many more in the works: to independence. The talk, given in Finnish by zest. If only this had been the way we were taught Finland 100 grants that February-Duluth, Minnesota: Laskiaistiistai - Kaarina and in English Kalevala when we were in school! provide financial Finnish Sliding Event; Lake Worth, Florida: From by board member Maila support of up Kalevala to An Independent Finland Smith, included economic FFFC was a proud supporter of the February to $1,000 per March-Ithaca, New York: 1929 silent Finnish film development and the rise Finland 100 Gala organized by all Finnish-Floridian chapter to assist accompanied by live organ music by Kent Washburn of literature, music and organizations to honor the Speaker of the Finnish in producing visual arts. More than at Parliament, Maria Lohela. FFFC sponsored cellist a centennial April-Fairport Harbor, Ohio: An Evening of Nordic any other time, during Jussi Makkonen and pianist Nazig Azezian; board program or Folk Music by Sara Pajunen and Vidar Skrede; Moorhead, Minnesota: Sisu the Traveling Sauna Russian rule Finnish member Riitta Nurminen generously housed the activity. artists at her beautiful home. Over 200 guests made event with food, music and sauna; Pembroke Pines, culture expanded and its Many are Florida: Suomi 100 Vappu Picnic national identity gained the gala a tremendous success. applying their strength. Finland 100 June-Duluth: Juhannus s a proud member of Finlandia Foundation, grants to host FFN maintains a calendar of Finland 100 events on The Finnish Male Singers AFFFC joins in cherishing and celebrating concerts by its website, and updates it as information becomes of Florida (Floridan Finland’s 100 years of independence. While we now kantele player available; check it often at FinlandiaFoundation.org. Laulumiehet) movingly bask under the warm sun here in Florida, we will Ida Elina (above) and Sibelius Inspiration by cellist never forget the courage and sacrifices that were For video clips, a blog and more information about performed “Oolannin Jussi Makkonen and pianist Nazig Azezian. Sisu the Traveling Sauna go to travelingsauna.com. sota,” “Maamme-laulu” required to achieve and maintain an independent n communities along the nationwide route of Sisu (Finland’s National Finland. Ithe Traveling Sauna, chapters such as the Red 19 Works of Finnish Poet Newly Translated into English Finlandia Foundation Family Tree to Honor Loved Ones

ove, Solitude, and the Face Journey through Finland’s n December 6, 1917 Finland declared its Because most FFN members trace their roots to Lof Death, a selection of Wars. Oindependence, a historic event worthy of Finland, we thought that this special year would be works by Swedish-speaking, the yearlong centennial celebration underway the ideal time to pay tribute to those loved ones who Finnish poet Edith Södergran eviewers say that Stina in Finland and among the Finnish-American came before us by creating a Finlandia Foundation (1892-1923), has been R“brings Södergran’s populations in the United States. Finnish Family Tree. immigrants settled at the translated into English by lines and images to us with our Centennial Honor New Sweden colony on breathtaking clarity and contribution will be Stina Katchadourian. the Delaware River in Y power,” and “Katchadourian’s noted at the Finlandia 1640, but the “Great When growing up in Finland translations are poems in their Foundation Family Tree Migration” of Finns to on the FFN website, and Stina, who is a member and own right, and capture the North America took place recorded in the FFN past president of Finlandia simple elegance and purity of between 1870 and 1930. Foundation San Francisco Södergran’s original.” archives, at one of three Bay Area Chapter, also spoke In the decades since, levels: those resolute early Swedish and is an award- Edith Södergran is now 1. For a gift of $100, your immigrants have been regarded as a leading Swedish loved one will be listed in winning literary translator. followed by others who language poet, and one of the FFN newsletter and on have come to this country She is also the author of three Finland’s major talents. the Finlandia Foundation for a variety of personal Family Tree page at books: Efronia: An Armenian and professional reasons. Love Story; Great Need over the The book is available for short FinlandiaFoundation.org. s a member of Water: The Letters of Theresa term loan from the FFN library 2. For a gift of $250, you Finlandia Foundation Huntington Ziegler, Missionary (contact Maria Kizirian at A will be able to provide a National you are [email protected] Honor your ancestors during this special Finland 100 year with a photo and a 250-word to Turkey, 1898–1905; and The expressing an interest in or phone 626.795.2081) and for tax deductible gift to Finlandia Foundation’s new Family Tree. story about the honoree, Lapp King’s Daughter: A Family Finnish America and in sale at amazon.com. which will appear in the Finland---past, present and future. Through FFN new Family Tree Log at FinlandiaFoundation.org. programs we strive to cultivate, support and honor This tribute is limited to the first 100 contributors the culture, tradition and history of the ancestral at the $250 level. homeland while encouraging the survival and growth of today’s Finnish-American community. 3. For a gift of $500, you will be able to provide two photos and a 500-word story about the honoree, New Consul General in LA Online Finland 100 Fun which will appear in the new Family Tree Log at FinlandiaFoundation.org. This tribute is limited to tefan Lindström, the new Consul General of he 100th Have you considered a the first 100 contributors at the $500 level. SFinland in Los Angeles, is no stranger to the Tanniversary of charitable bequest to office; he served independence is entennial Honor gifts must be made in the year in LA as Finland’s understandably Finlandia Foundation C2017. Because FFN is a 501(c)(3) organization, Deputy Consul a big deal in your donation is tax deductible. Additionally, the General from Finland, where National? Paloheimo Foundation will match donations to FFN (up to $100,000) annually. 2001-2005. festivities began A gift in your will or living trust is a simple and in January and versatile way of making a difference for the Make your Centennial Honor contribution of $100, In his 20-year will carry on nonprofit FFN, and donations from your estate are $250 or $500 today, and celebrate your family’s Foreign Ministry throughout 2017. exempt from federal estate taxes. history along with the 100th anniversary of career he has The organizing Finland’s independence. You may: largely focused committee has Your bequest enables you to make a gift without • use the envelope enclosed with this newsletter on issues related been encouraging impacting your current financial needs. Since • donate online at FinlandiaFoundation.org to trade and countries around bequests transfer upon death, you have full access • mail your contribution to FFN, PO Box 92046, economics in the world to recognize Finland 100, and the official to your assets during your lifetime. You may Pasadena, CA 91109-2046 roles that have website lists exhibitions, programs and other events change your mind at any time. (If yours is one of the first 100 Centennial Honors at taken him to in Hungary, Paris, Denmark, the U.S. and more. the $250 level or the $500 level, we will contact you India, Indonesia, Contact your attorney or estate planner with The website is a source for historical and current your intentions to establish a bequest. FFN vice for your family story and photo.) Portugal, Brussels event information, “best 100” lists and interactive president, attorney Paul Halme, can provide Questions? Contact Maria Kizirian at and Helsinki. features such as quizzes and Instagram challenges. examples of language to use in your will or living [email protected] or phone her at Much of the information is available in Finnish, trust. Reach him at [email protected]. 626.795.2081. he LA Swedish and English languages. Check it out at TConsulate suomifinland100.fi. Learn more about giving to FFN at represents Finland in 13 West Coast states. Find FinlandiaFoundation.org more about the Consul General and his office at the Embassy website finland.org. 20 21 Fund Honors Sundquist KIITOS!THANK YOU FOR YOUR GIFTS! November 2016 through March 2017, except gifts above $1,000, which are cumulative: ith the passing of George Sundquist in MAJOR GIFTS Satu & Juhani Mikkola FinnFest USA 2007 $100 to $199 WNovember of 2016, Finlandia Foundation Nokia Corp. Finnish Folk Festival lost a former board member, friend, and longtime Rauha Cole Estate Nestor Perala Naselle Frank Ballo in memory of supporter of FFN. Born in Munsala Parish, Finland, Curtin-Paloheimo Timothy Nurvala Walter Heikkila Ellen Niemi Ballo George immigrated to the United States in 1952, Leonora Foundation Anita & Jack Smiley Richard & Helvi Impola Peggy Freers where he met his wife Marion, a ballerina. They Aina Swan Cutler Sundquist Associates Birgitta Kaanto Alan Gluskin settled in California where George, a skilled carpenter, founded Sundquist Associates, a FF National Capital June M. Wepsala Ilkka Kalliomaa Karen Hakala construction company in Redwood City. Chapter Wil and Mae Kaven Sonja Haugen Haikala Associates $2,000 to $4,999 Kaino & Donald Leethem Antti & Mary Helne George’s passions were sports, music and exploring Ronald A. Helin Richard & Lois Lindgren in honor of Washington, his heritage. In addition to serving on the FFN Music lover George Sundquist (right) with Finnish pianist Janne Hilda M. Hendrickson Trust Richard & Janet Ahola D.C. Finns board he was president of Finlandia Foundation Andrew A. Luhtanen Mertanen and FFN President Ossi Rahkonen at a post-con- Dr. Vaino Hoover Anonymous Kaisa Inka Dolan San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, and a member of Marilyn Madden the Scandinavian American Cultural & Historical cert reception during the spring 2014 FFN board meeting in John & Pauline Kiltinen Janet Arvonen Kniffin John & Sue Karjala Peter J. & Arja Mäkilä Foundation, Swedish-Finn Historical Society, San Atlanta. Hilkka Kinnunen Jenny M. Duke, TTEE Fern Malila Barbara & Dan Krabill FF Columbia-Pacific Francisco’s Swedish Club and Norwegian Club, and Aune E. Koski Estate Eva & Heikki Mannisto in memory of Laina Koski the Finnish American Home Association. Marion has set up another fund to benefit FFN. To Esko Koskinen Chapter Nike, Inc. Garver everal years ago in honor of his wife, George donate, go to FinlandiaFoundation.org and under Gertrude Kujala FF Los Angeles Chapter Jussi & Satu Mikkola Col. George Rasula established the Finlandia Foundation Marion “Giving” click the George and Marion Sundquist John & Nancy Laine Finn Spark, Inc. Aino Rouvari in memory of George S Fund, or send a memorial gift to FFN at P.O. Box Jack & Sinikka Haikala Sundquist Endowment for the Arts Fund for the Edward Laissi Estate Odd Ryden Sundquist purpose of awarding scholarships to young, talented 92046, Pasadena, CA 91109-2046. Jacqueline L. Harjula Pertti Lindfors Eva Saari Arvid & musicians pursuing a career in music at a high Note: A profile of George and Marion appeared in the Anne K. Kanerva Earle I. Mack Foundation Prof. Borje O. Saxberg Marianne Parssinen level institution. This year, pianist Markus Kaitila Spring 2013 FFN newsletter, which you may view Paloheimo Foundation Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski Scandinavian American Robert J. Pemberton was the recipient of that award (see page 12). online at FinlandiaFoundation.org Leonora C. Paloheimo & John Koski Cultural & Historical David Peterson & Ossi J. & Karin Rahkonen Stina & Herant Foundation Joan Bennett GIFTS TO $99 continued Mary Rinki Elma Randall Estate Katchadourian Marja O. Snyder Brigitta & Alvar Kauti in memory of Jack Smiley Jon & Christine Saari Brent Thompson Shackford Pitcher Robert Belden Florida Finnish-Americans Risto & Satu Laaksonen Judith Robbins & Jonathan Jean Sainio-Nolan Trust Johanna Thormod Charlene Riikonen in Mirja Bishop Anja & Raymond C. Miller Robbins in memory of Built Senior Compound Bert & Marjatta Salonen Leo Utter memory of Esko Riikonen Marlene Broemer Terri Muscato Normark Esther Ingrid Maki n October of 1970 a group of concerned and George & Marion Maija & Jay Rothenberg James Butler Nasdaq Stockmarket, Inc. Gerry & energetic individuals in the Lantana and Lake Sundquist $500 to $999 David & Jeannette Sharpe James & I Armi Nelson Margaret Schueman Worth areas of Florida decided to construct a Suomi-Seura, Finland Dr. Elaine Simpson Mary Ann Chellman Risto & Judy Stirkkinen Anne-Mari Paster Teuvo & Marjut Pulkkinen facility where Finns and Finnish-Americans could Eero Tetri in memory of Hilma Matthew Cirigliano Richard W. Ploe-Kaijala Paul & enjoy their retirement years in a setting where their Päivi & Brent Tetri Suvanto Sillanpaa Enrique & Nancy Garcia Anita L. Raistakka $200 to $499 Catherine Tulikangas heritage and customs were a part of daily living. Andrejs Udris Doris & Dale Snow Joan Hollander Allan & Linda Tuomaala U.F.B. & S. Lodge #1 Rapala USA Elaine Stevens By March of 1974 the first residents moved into the Helen & Bill Alberth Godfrey A. Holmstrom Arja & Turto Turtiainen of San Francisco Duane & Cheryl Rogers, Melvin & Carol Suokas Finnish-American Rest Home in Lake Worth; in Karl Bystrom Gordon & Dorothy Hughes Laila Williamson Raili & Miranda Richard & 1979 the American-Finnish Nursing Home opened. Regina K. Valley Hilja Davis Bill Hulkonen & Hanna & David Wagner Jo Ann Viinikainen Ira A. Ebeling Phyllis Marshall Now known as the Finnish-American Village, the Susan E. Walima Jonathan & Maarit Visbal FFN is a 501(c)(3) $5,000 to $9,999 Don & Margaret Fidler Maija Hulkkonen compound offers residents assisted living suites, Raymond & Pearl Wanttaja organization and donations Finnish Americans & David Y. Kokko meals, housekeeping, activities, programs, outings, J. Bradford $1,000 to $1,999 Aira & Peter Williams are tax deductible. Friends-Hibbing Chapter Candace Kovacic-Fleischer sauna and other amenities. Skilled nursing care & Pirkko Borland John & Judy Yesso Dennis Anderson in memory of Jack Rajala & Walter Fleischer You may contribute online and rehabilitation services are also available. John Brock in honor of Anita Smiley & Madeline Bahr Kathryn Alice Lang at FinlandiaFoundation.org & Sirpa Ristimaki-Brock Kirsti Phillips in honor of “We hope and request that the Finnish-American Kristina Antoniades David LaPierre or mail a check to: Finlandia Music Finnish Heritage GIFTS TO $99 communities here in the U.S. would provide Irmeli Corsi Christine Kalke in memory of Lily Hitchen Finlandia Foundation financial support to us to continue our important & Art Festival Robert C. Liimatainen & Louis Gerard Corsi & Rolf Thoresen Susan Ahl National, P.O. Box 92046 services to seniors in need of care,” says Robert Finnish-American Literary Pirjo & Matti Loikkanen Elissa & Renato Kirsti Frenzen Noring Prof. Arnold R. Alanen Pasadena, CA 91109-2046 Liimatainen, a resident and FAV board member. Heritage Foundation Patricia Maki Della Rocca Rajala Mill Company Robert & Brenda Anderson Paul & Susan Halme Jennifer A. Malone onations to the nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization Jeanne Doty Mark & Beth Rikkonen Susan Anderson Please report any errors to Olavi Hiukka Karen & Richard Michael Dare tax deductible. Seija & Lawrence Farber Dirk & Pirjo Schulbach Anonymous Maria Kizirian at: Rita Vermala-Koski George & Anne Ojalehto Find more information at farh.org or contact FF San Francisco Bay in memory of Aksel Salo office@ & Alvar Koski Anthony & Judith Olson Manager Katja Pukkila, RN 561.588.4333 ext. 121. Area Chapter John Arola finlandiafoundation.org Juha O. Mäkipää Paul & Nancy Rajala FF Seattle Chapter Ellen Beatty or phone 626.795.2081 22 23 Finlandia Foundation National P.O. Box 92046 Pasadena, CA 91109-2046

Finlandia Foundation® National Chapters: Year affiliated with FFN and president/chairman Find more information about the chapters at FinlandiaFoundation.org ALASKA FinnsConnect South Florida MICHIGAN OHIO Anchorage Suomi Finland /2017 Finnish Center Association F-A Heritage Association of Club/2015 Miami-Dade-Broward Counties /2004 Farmington Hills Ashtabula County/2004 Hanna Eklund Kati Makinen Mia Lamminen Elsa Shepard [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ARIZONA GEORGIA F-A Society of West Central Finnish Heritage Museum/2015 The F-A Club of Tucson/2007 Atlanta Finland Society, Inc. Michigan/2007 Coopersville Fairport Harbor Tommi Koskinen /1975 Marie Godell Fowler Lasse Hiltunen [email protected] Tina Huoso Harmon [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Finns and Friends F-A Cultural Corporation/2012 OREGON of Phoenix/2010 Royal Oak FF Columbia-Pacific HAWAII Frank Gottberg Joy Dorvinen FF Hawaii/2014 Honolulu Chapter/2001 Portland [email protected] [email protected] Vihtori Virta Greg Jacob [email protected] Finnish Theme Committee of [email protected] CALIFORNIA Hancock - FF Copper Country Finlandia Club of Sacramento IDAHO Chapter/2006 PENNSYLVANIA /2006 FF Inland Northwest Chapter James Kurtti FF Pittsburgh Chapter/1990 Marita Martin /1970 [email protected] Seija Cohen [email protected] Don Heikkila Upper Peninsula Chapter of [email protected] FF Berkeley Chapter/2016 [email protected] the League of F-A Societies F-A Society of the Delaware Kaj Rekola /2006 Marquette Valley/2006 Philadelphia [email protected] ILLINOIS Ron J. Hill Marja Kaisla F-A Society of the Midwest [email protected] [email protected] FF Los Angeles Chapter/1974 /1997 Chicago area Harvey Eidinoff Oscar Forsman MINNESOTA SOUTH DAKOTA [email protected] [email protected] Finnish-Americans and Frederick Forward - FF Dakota FF SF Bay Area Chapter/1956 Friends-Hibbing Chapter/1998 Chapter/2012 Hertta Bethell MAINE Rodney Ikola Heidi Marttila-Losure F-A Heritage Society of [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Maine/2012 West Paris Paula Salomaa Dale Piirainen FF Twin Cities Chapter/1993 Sons and Daughters of [email protected] [email protected] Betsey Norgard Suomi/2015 Deadwood [email protected] Steven Mitchell F-A Home Association/2005 Finnish Farmers Club/2012 Sonoma Monson FF Northland Chapter/2010 [email protected] Stephen Rowe Duluth Inez Goodine TEXAS [email protected] [email protected] Arlene Putikka Tucker [email protected] F-A Society of Dallas/ The House of Finland-San Finnish Heritage House/2007 Fort Worth/1991 Diego/2015 South Thomaston Red River Finns/2011 Moorhead Jeremy Martin Eeva Syvanen Jacqueline Harjula Ellen Liddle [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] UTAH COLORADO MARYLAND MONTANA FF Utah Chapter/2016 Provo FF Colorado Chapter/1993 FF Baltimore Area Chapter Finlandia Foundation of Tiina Watts Denver /1974 Montana/2017 Missoula [email protected] Kirsi St. Marie Markku Koppanen Jenni Rohrbach [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] VIRGINIA FF Tidewater Virginia Finn Club of Helena/2007 CONNECTICUT MASSACHUSETTS Chapter/1978 F-A Heritage Society/2011 Marjorie Peura Reilly Riikka Mohorn FF Boston, Inc./1955 [email protected] Canterbury Nathalie Forssell [email protected] Steven Bousquet [email protected] Red Lodge Knights and [email protected] Ladies of Kaleva/2011 Roberts WASHINGTON F-A Society of Cape Cod/2012 Claudia Morley FF Seattle Chapter/1968 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Stephen Trimble [email protected] Mikko Männistö FF National Capital Chapter [email protected] [email protected] /1959 The Finnish Center at Saima NEW YORK FF Suomi Chapter/2010 Mikko McFeely FF New York Metropolitan [email protected] Park, Inc./2005 Fitchburg Bellingham Maija Mård Chapter/1954 Maria Caceres-Bjorklund Eero Kilpi FLORIDA [email protected] [email protected] FF Florida Chapter/1954 [email protected] The Finnish Heritage Society - F-A Folk Festival/2011 Naselle Lantana Sovittaja/2006 Rutland Finger Lakes Finns/2006 Mike Swanson Kaarina Langeland Spencer Barry Heiniluoma [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Oiva Vesa [email protected] Swedish-Finn Historical Society/1991 Seattle Bill Carlson [email protected] 24