Minutes of the Hoito Restaurant March 27, 1918 to May 2, 1920
Translated and Introduced by Saku Pinta
This work is dedicated to the staff of the Hoito Restaurant, past, present, and future.
2
The Origins of the Hoito Restaurant: A History from Below By Saku Pinta
Then Slim headed to Bay Street, where he read a sign upon a door Inviting the world workers up onto the second floor Come right in Fellow Worker, hang your crown upon the wall And eat at the Wobbly restaurant, you'll pay no profits there at all - “The Second Coming of Christ” by Pork-Chop Slim1
In continuous operation in the same location for over 100 years, the Hoito Restaurant has served Finnish and Canadian food in the city of Thunder Bay, Ontario while also serving as an important local landmark and gathering place. The restaurant the New York Times called “arguably Canada's most famous pancake house” has, since it opened on May 1, 1918, occupied the bottom-floor of the 109-year old Finnish Labour Temple on 314 Bay Street – a building formally recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 2011.2
In recognition of the centenary of the founding of the Hoito Restaurant the Thunder Bay Finnish Canadian Historical Society is proud to publish, for the first time in English-language translation, the entirety of the restaurant's first minute book. This unique and historically significant primary source document begins on March 27, 1918, with the first meeting to discuss the establishment of the restaurant, and concludes over two years later on May 2, 1920. The proceedings record the discussions, debates, and decisions made by the Board of Directors and General Assembly during the course of the first two years of the restaurant’s existence. This translation attempts to adhere as closely as possible to the tone and meaning of the original Finnish. Only minor edits have been made to correct errors and to ensure consistency in spelling. Footnotes have been included to provide additional explanation where necessary. Also, it should be noted that unlike the somewhat scattered order of the Board of Directors and General Assembly minutes in the original document, the translation below has been placed in chronological order, beginning with the original Hoito Constitution and By-laws.
This work formed a considerable portion of the 2018-2019 “Increasing Access to the Finnish- Language Archives” project, made possible by funding from the Library and Archives of Canada (LAC) Documentary Heritage Community Programme (DHCP). It is the hope of this author that this document will remain in the public domain in perpetuity for the benefit of working people everywhere, to whom this history rightfully belongs.
The aim of this introduction is to place the origins and formative years of the Hoito Restaurant in historical context, and in so doing, provide some insight into the lives of its founders, their motivations, and the times that helped to shape their ideas. It is a short study in class- consciousness in the way that historian E.P. Thompson defined it, as the way that the working-class experience is “handled in cultural terms” and “embodied in traditions, value- systems, ideas, and institutional forms.”3 The story of the Hoito Restaurant is one of immigration and is tied to the seasonal rhythms of the logging industry in northern Ontario, the Finnish-Canadian lumber workers who pooled their resources to establish it, and the
1 Lakehead University Archives, CTKL fonds, MG10, F 15, 22, I 33. 2 May 12, 2015 “Finnish pancakes with a side of Canada's labour history,” New York Times. 3 E.P. Thompson, The Making of the English Working Class (London: Penguin Books, 1991), 9. 3
Industrial Workers of the World (IWW or “Wobblies”) union, with which the restaurant and Labour Temple maintained a close association for decades. For the restaurant's proletarian patrons, the Hoito signified much more than a place to have a meal. It was an establishment that they controlled directly, representing an imperfect, but nonetheless small-scale working model of the society that they sought to build – the guiding principle being that more can be achieved by combining resources collectively than through individual effort alone.
Immigration and the Economy of Northern Ontario, 1884-1931
Finnish immigrants began settling in North America in large numbers in the late nineteenth century, a phenomenon popularly known as Amerikan kuume (American fever). Over 300,000 Finns arrived in North America, the majority of whom settled in the United States, before the outbreak of the First World War in Europe stopped immigration. By 1914 some 22,000 Finns had settled in Canada. Less than twenty years later their numbers had nearly doubled.4 Most were economic migrants, landless workers from rural areas who hoped to find work and a better life in Canada. Immigration agents helped to persuade potential migrants with tales of the work and wealth in this new land where one could “carve gold with a wooden knife.”5 Others fled political repression or conscription into the Russian military in the pre- independence period, before 1917, when Finland belonged to the Russian Empire. Similarly, the turbulent post-independence period witnessed a Civil War in 1918, a short but brutal conflict that ended with the victory of the non-socialist “Whites” over the socialist “Reds”. Thousands of Finns left the war-torn and politically divided country.
A dedicated minority of these immigrants held socialist views, helping to found newspapers, organizations, and perhaps most importantly, the labour halls that could be found in nearly any urban or rural community with a sizeable Finnish population. Built in 1910, the Finnish Labour Temple in Port Arthur (now modern-day Thunder Bay) is a product of this era.
During this same period, northern Ontario was also undergoing a massive transformation. On May 16, 1885, workers near Jackfish, Ontario, on the rugged north shore of Lake Superior drove the last spike on the stretch of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) connecting Winnipeg to Montreal.6 As the Thunder Bay Sentinel newspaper announced in 1884, in typical colonial fashion, “that which has been hitherto a howling wilderness untrodden by the foot of man, will in the course of a few months resound with the rush and bustle of railway life.”7 More than the “rush and bustle” of the railway, the CPR served to open northern Ontario up to mass settlement, as did other short-line railways built soon after specifically for the purpose of hauling the mineral and timber wealth out of the northern hinterland. The population of northern Ontario grew rapidly, from roughly 55,000 in 1891 to more than 360,000 forty years later.8 Immigrants helped to fill the tremendous demand for the cheap, “unskilled” labour that powered the railroad construction, longshore, mining, and logging industries.
4 Varpu Lindström-Best, The Finns in Canada (Ottawa: Canadian Historical Association, 1985), 7. 5 Bay Street Project No. 2. Thunder Bay Finnish Canadian Historical Society, A Chronicle of Finnish Settlements in Rural Thunder Bay (Thunder Bay: Thunder Bay Finnish Canadian Historical Society, 1976), 18. 6 Lyle Nicol. Jackfish Ontario: Memories of a Lake Superior Ghost Town. Lake Superior Magazine, February 1, 2009. 7 Quoted in Pierre Burton, The Last Spike: The Great Railway, 1881-1885 (Toronto/Montreal: McLelland and Stewart Limited), 270. 8 Mark Kuhlberg, In the Power of Government: The Rise and Fall of Newsprint in Ontario, 1894-1932 (Toronto: Univeristy of Toronto Press, 2015), 11. 4
The logging industry, one of the key segments of the northern Ontario economy, reflected this ethnic diversity. “It looked like the goddamn United Nations out there,” as one logger recalled.9 As historian Donald MacKay noted, lumber workers in Canada have called themselves by many names: lumberers, shantymen, timberbeasts, lumberjacks, loggers, forestiers, and bûcherons.10 To this list may be added the kämppäjätkät (camp lads), a Finnish-Canadian term that applied not only to lumber workers but also to railroad construction crews who toiled seasonally and lived in camps close to their work. In the early 1930s the District of Thunder Bay alone accounted for roughly 20 percent of the total Finnish immigrant population in Canada.11 It was in this District, along with the Algoma Central Railway north of Sault Ste. Marie and along the Canadian Northern Railway west of Sudbury, that Finnish lumber workers dominated the pulpwood camps.12
From the 1920s to the mid-1940s, with few exceptions, logging in Ontario employed between 20,000 to 30,000 workers per year. The seasonal work of felling and bucking timber typically began in the late autumn, stretching through the winter, and ending in the early spring with the log drive. Along with the softwood destined to become dimensional lumber in sawmills, an astounding quantity of railway ties were cut in the north woods. It is estimated that between 1875 and 1930 – in the period before railway ties were treated to prevent rot and had to be replaced more frequently – lumber workers in northwestern Ontario produced more than 55 million railway ties by hand, through the skillful use of the broad axe.13 However, pulp and paper would become the most significant segment of the logging industry in northern Ontario, in terms of the large amounts of capital invested in pulp and paper mills and the rising demand for paper, especially from the United States. The pulpwood cutters and paper mill workers of northern Ontario supplied much of the newsprint for the mass daily papers in the northeastern and midwestern United States.14
The Finnish-Canadian Wobblies
Life in the remote logging camps of northern Ontario was often dangerous, difficult, and poorly paid. A letter published in the Port Arthur-based Työkansa (The Working People) newspaper in October 1911 provided the following vivid description of the abysmal conditions that workers commonly encountered.
The rugged old-growth forest is felled by the sweat of thousands living in intolerably cramped and dirty camps, often a haven for small vermin that do not even grant these tired limbs a good night’s rest. Unhealthy, rotten meat, eggs, butter, and so on, passed over in the cities by the hungriest customers, are regularly shipped to the camps. Surely they will even eat excrement in the camps,
9 Andrew Neufeld and Andrew Parnaby, The IWA in Canada: the Life and Times of an Industrial Union (Vancouver: IWA Canada/New Star Books, 2000), 8. 10 Donald MacKay, The Lumberjacks (Toronto: McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited, 1978), 8. 11 See Seventh Census of Canada, 1931, Volume II – Population By Areas, 426-427. 12 Ian Radforth, Bushworkers and Bosses: Logging in Northern Ontario, 1900-1980 (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1987), 108. 13 J.P. Bertrand, Timber Wolves: Greed and Corruption in Northwestern Ontario's Timber Industry, 1875-1960 (Thunder Bay: Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society, 1998), 41. 14 For a summary of the scale of the newsprint industry in Ontario and the political issues related to it see Kuhlberg, In the Power of Government, 297-311. 5
muse the merchants as they pack and dispatch this filth to the woods. The wretchedly low wages are the final indignity.15
Food never strayed too far from the minds of the lumber workers. The average logger burned more than 7,000 calories a day in the era when trees were felled using hand tools. As a result, inadequate or poorly prepared food could, and often did, result in walkouts and other forms of protest. The topic even furnished material for songs and poems. The “Lumberjack's Prayer”, penned by T-Bone Slim (the pen name of Matti Valentinpoika Huhta), used humour to discuss the poor quality of the food in the logging camps. The final stanza suggests the earthly means to improve it.
I pray dear Lord for Jesus' sake Give us this day a T-Bone steak Hallowed be thy holy name But don't forget to send the same
Oh hear my humble cry, oh Lord And send me down some decent board Brown gravy and some German fried With sliced tomatoes on the side
Observe me on my bended legs I'm asking you for ham and eggs And if thou havest custard pies I like, dear Lord, the largest size
Dear Lord we know your holy wish On Friday we must have a fish Our flesh is weak and spirit stale You better make that fish a whale
Oh hear me Lord, remove these dogs These sausages of powdered logs Your bull beef hash and bearded snouts Take them to Hell or thereabouts
With alum bread and pressed beef butts Dear Lord, you damn near ruined my guts Your white wash milk and margarine I wish to Christ I'd never seen
Oh hear me Lord, I'm praying still But if you won't, our union will Put pork chops on the bill of fare And starve no workers anywhere16
15 Työkansa, October 13, 1911. 16 The “Lumberjack's Prayer” has been reproduced multiple times since it was first published in 1920. See for example The Little Red Song Book to Fan the Flames of Discontent, 36th Edition (Ypsilanti: Industrial Workers of the World, 1995), 6
Before the widespread presence of labour unions in the industry, workers would simply leave to find employment in other camps where wages, food, or conditions might be better. But these individual acts did little to improve the lives of the lumber workers in any meaningful way, much less provide any sort of mechanism with which to make or enforce demands. Around the same time that the famous IWW-led Fraser River Railway strikes broke out in western Canada, Finnish-Canadians emerged as the main driving force behind labour union organizing efforts in the logging industry in northern Ontario.
In the spring of 1912 Finns established the first lumber workers local of the IWW in Ontario in the camps along the Algoma Central. By the spring of 1918 the IWW lumber workers there had conducted what is in all likelihood the first successful strike to be carried out under a union banner in the logging industry in Ontario, winning improvements in pay, hours, and conditions.17 The union soon spread to logging camps across northern Ontario aided considerably by the much larger Finnish-American IWW movement, the network of Finnish socialist halls, and an already combative working-class movement. The IWW had been active in province since 1906, establishing its first locals in the mines of northeastern Ontario, under the auspices of the Western Federation of Miners.18 The arrival of the IWW into the logging camps in Ontario owed much to the traditional union militancy of the miners.
Founded in Chicago in June 1905, the IWW positioned itself as a rival to the dominant craft or trade union federations like the American Federation of Labor. The rise of machine production in the twentieth century, the founders of the union concluded, had made unions organized on the basis of the tools used in production outdated and conservative. The craft or trade method of organization now divided rather than united the working class. A single workplace or industry could include multiple trade unions that often would or could not honour the picket lines of a separate union or local on strike. Moreover, the craft distinctions previously common in manufacturing simply did not correspond to the realities of the new mass production industries.
In the opening lines of the 1905 Industrial Union Manifesto the founders of the IWW maintained, in terms that could easily be applied to current discussions on automation and the divide between rich and poor, that:
Social relations and groupings only reflect mechanical and industrial conditions. The great facts of present industry are the displacement of human skill by machines and the increase of capitalist power through concentration in the possession of the tools with which wealth is produced and distributed.19
As an alternative, the IWW promoted a new union vision whereby workers would be organized by industry – all workers in the same industry should belong to the same union,
40-41. For a selection of T-Bone Slim's other writings see Franklin Rosemont (ed.), Juice is Stranger than Friction: Selected Writings of T-Bone Slim (Chicago: Charles H. Kerr Publishing Company, 1992). 17 See Saku Pinta, “The Wobblies of the North Woods: Finnish Labor Radicalism and the IWW in Northern Ontario” in Peter Cole, David Struthers, and Kenyon Zimmer (eds.), Wobblies of the World: A Global History of the IWW (London: Pluto Press, 2017), 140-167. 18 Ibid. 19 Industrial Union Manifesto, issued by Conference of Industrial Unionists at Chicago, January 2, 3 and 4, 1905: https://www.iww.org/history/library/iww/industrial_union_manifesto. 7 and all unions combined into a single labour organization. This industrial form of union organization would enhance the bargaining power of the working class as well as its ability to make improvements in wages and conditions. But the Wobblies had long-term goals in mind too. As an organization with revolutionary commitments, the seeds of the new society were also to be found in the industrial unions. "The army of production," states the Preamble to the IWW constitution, "must be organized, not only for everyday struggle with capitalists, but also to carry on production when capitalism shall have been overthrown.”20 The IWW envisaged a new society – sometimes described as "industrial democracy" or the "co-operative commonwealth" – where the workers' themselves would directly control all land, factories, and infrastructure that produced the wealth of the world, to be distributed on an equitable basis.
Also, unlike the craft unions of the early twentieth century, the IWW welcomed all workers regardless of nationality or gender. Solidarity was to be built through inclusivity. No worker could be denied membership as long as they did not possess the power to hire or fire. Additionally, low initiation fees and monthly dues removed financial obstacles to membership.
Tens of thousands of workers, above all immigrants and those employed in the resource industries, flocked to the union in the first three decades of the twentieth century. Along with their inclusive approach, the IWW represented one of the only labour organizations on the continent concerned with organizing “unskilled” workers on a large scale during this period. For many immigrants, the revolutionary vision of the IWW came to be viewed as the best method to realize the promise of material prosperity that had attracted them to North America in the first place.
The experiences of Nikolai “Nick” Viita, the manager of the Hoito Restaurant from 1925 to 1931, serve as a fairly typical example.21 Viita was born in Kankaanpää, Finland in 1902, the oldest of three children. His father immigrated to Canada in 1908, first finding employment in the mines in Cobalt before working in the logging camps. After six long years Viita's father had earned enough money to send for his wife and children. Upon arrival in 1914, at the age of twelve, Nick Viita began working alongside his father felling and bucking timber with a crosscut saw in Camp Mile 26-27 along the Algoma Central Railway line north of Sault Ste. Marie. Viita's father built a tarpaper shack near the camp bunkhouses where the family lived year-round. He would attend school for three months of the year when the logging season ended.
Like most of the logging camps along the Algoma Central, stretching from Sault Ste. Marie to Hearst, the lumber workers that the Viita family lived and worked with were mainly Finnish immigrants, and nearly all of them belonged to the IWW. It is not known if Viita's father had encountered the union while working in the mines, but by 1914 he had become an strong supporter of the Duluth, Minnesota-based Finnish-language IWW daily newspaper Sosialisti (The Socialist, later renamed Industrialisti or The Industrialist). The camp had a sauna and workers would gather on weekends for improvised entertainments, often featuring Finnish folk and labour songs, recitations, and short speeches. At age fifteen Viita joined the IWW on his
20 Preamble to the IWW Constitution: https://www.iww.org/culture/official/preamble.shtml. 21 The following biographical details of Nick Viita's life have been drawn from “Notes from reminiscences of Nick Viita,” recorded by Fred Thompson, Lake Worth Florida, February 1968, included in a letter to Jean Morrison, October 20, 1970; Jean Morrison's interview notes with Nick Viita (not dated, c. 1972); Industrialisti October 25, 1966; and Chronicle Journal March 14, 1977. 8 own request, as the camp delegate only made union membership obligatory on adults. One year later he participated in the successful 1918 Algoma Central IWW strike witnessing, first hand, how an organized movement can harness the potential of ordinary workers to effect change. Viita would later complement his meagre elementary school education by attending the Work People's College, a residential labour college financed and operated by Finnish Wobblies near Duluth.22 Viita's experiences in the logging camps, the hardships that his family endured, and the robust culture and egalitarian vision of the union had drawn him, and thousands like him, to the IWW movement.
A Good Meal at a Reasonable Price
The story of the Hoito Restaurant begins with this revolutionary union vision. The idea originated in Kallio's logging camp outside of Nipigon, Ontario. While the precise location of the camp remains unknown, it was most likely somewhere along the Black Sturgeon River pulpwood concession west of Nipigon.23
Armas Topias Mäkinen (better known as A.T. or “Tom” Hill) had toured the logging camps in the District of Thunder Bay, promoting the new Finnish-language newspaper Vapaus (Liberty) and supporting union organizing efforts. Hill arrived at Kallio's logging camp in January 1918, where the workers had formed an IWW union committee, winning some improvements in working conditions. Discussions soon focused on the quality of the food in the camp. As Hill recalled, the “first discussion with the camp cook resulted in an expressed suggestion that a co-operative restaurant again be opened in the basement of the Labour Temple.”24
This solution satisfied one of the workers' problems beyond the “shop floor”. Affordable accommodations could be easily obtained while lodging in the city in one of the many boarding houses located in the Finnish quarter around Bay Street, where lumber workers from the region frequently assembled in the off-season. However, finding a good meal at a reasonable price proved to be much more difficult. A co-operatively operated restaurant, controlled by the workers' themselves, best suited their values as union members. Such an establishment could also serve as a vital centre to support union recruitment efforts.
The workers at Kallio's camp sought support for the idea from other workers in the District. The proposal first arrived, by letter and word of mouth, at a logging camp in Linko Siding, some 75 kilometres northwest of Thunder Bay, and then to other camps soon after. When the logging season drew to a close in the early spring, discussions about establishing a new restaurant carried on in the city.25
As recorded in the minutes below, the first formal meeting was held on March 27, 1918 at the Finnish Labour Temple. Alex Lehto, Niilo Nurmi, Frank Laine, Ed Mäki, and Väinö Pelto
22 For an account of the Work People's College as an IWW school see Saku Pinta, “Educate, Organize, Emancipate: The Work People’s College and the Industrial Workers of the World,” in Anarchist Pedagogies: Collective Actions, Theories, and Critical Reflections on Education (Oakland: PM Press, 2012), 45-68. 23 J.J. Carrick and S.A. Marks won the lease to the Black Sturgeon River pulpwood concession in 1916. There is at least one account of a predominantly Finnish logging camp 50 miles up the Black Sturgeon River in 1919. See Kuhlberg, In the Power of Government, 124-125 and MacKay, The Lumberjacks, 222. 24 A.T. Hill, “Historic Basis and Development of the Lumber Workers Organization and Struggles in Ontario,” unpublished manuscript, 1952, 4. 25 Vapaus, April 23, 1968. 9 unanimously decided to proceed with the establishment of a “poikatalo.” Before the restaurant had a name it was simply referred to as the poikatalo, a uniquely Finnish North American term meaning “boarding house,” or literally “bachelor house.” In the twentieth century, these boarding houses could be found in nearly every community in the United States and Canada with a sizeable Finnish population, forming an important part of the support network for immigrant workers. Despite the fact that the hall and the restaurant did not offer lodging, poikatalo has remained one of the nicknames for both the Labour Temple and the Hoito ever since. The actual name Hoito (meaning “care” in Finnish) was chosen on April 28, 1918, only three days before the restaurant opened.
During the March 28, 1918 meeting it was announced that the Port Arthur Finnish Socialist Local, the organization that controlled the Labour Temple at this time, had responded to the restaurant committee request that the basement of the hall be used for the restaurant. They demanded that some definite information be presented to demonstrate support for the initiative.
The Finnish Socialist Local's Board of Directors had good reason for proceeding with caution. The space that the Hoito Restaurant now occupies had, since 1910, served as the location for multiple restaurants, both co-operatively and privately operated, as well as other enterprises, including the offices of the Työkansa newspaper, a poolroom, and a soft drink foundry. The Board wanted to ensure that this new initiative had some likelihood of success. Also, as historian Jorma Halonen observed, the Finnish immigrant neighbourhood surrounding the Labour Temple had seen a major upsurge in co-operative activity, not matched since, in the years leading up to the founding of the Hoito. However, these co-operative enterprises had gone bankrupt in 1915 owing, in part, to the effects of an economic recession and the outbreak of the First World War.26 The Labour Temple itself had gone into receivership in 1915 after defaulting on a loan payment.27
To comply with the demand of the Finnish Socialist Local, the restaurant committee decided to compile a list of supporters to present to the Board. They also made the decision to collect $5.00 “comrade loans” from prospective customers in order to raise the necessary start-up money. They hoped to collect at least $300.00 (the equivalent of about $4,750.00 in 2019). They came to within $5.00 of this goal. The names of 45 of the original 59 individuals who contributed “comrade loans” to establish the Hoito appear on receipts contained in the Canadan Teollisuusunionistinen Kannatus Liitto (Canadian Industrial Unionist Support League) fonds in the Lakehead University archives.28 They are as follows:
26 Jorma Halonen, “Short History of the Hoito,” Thunder Bay Finnish Canadian Historical Society (not dated). See also Marc Metsäranta (ed.), Project Bay Street: Activities of Finnish-Canadians in Thunder Bay before 1915 (Thunder Bay: Finnish Canadian Historical Society, 1989), 212-213. 27 This situation persisted until the Finnish One Big Union Support Circle assumed both the debt and control of the hall in 1919. See Industrialisti, October 13, 1970. 28 See Lakehead University Archives, CTKL fonds, MG10, Box 1, Folder 1. It should be noted that the names listed above are transcribed as they were written on the “comrade loan” receipts, with any further information available following in parentheses. 10
A. Halonen F. North Leonard Hanqiste (or possibly Hanqvist) John Pelto Antti Johnson Eland Perho Jack Koski W. Rinneri Fred Lahti F. Leppänen Alex Lehto E. Pantynen John Mammi Jan Anttila A. Niemi H. Blom A. Oja Henry Mustonen Emel Ojala Gusti Norman J. Rahkonen E. Outinen Kusti Rajala J. Santanen Victor Ronkka J. Seppälä J. Sado (also spelled Sato) Kalle Waranen Wikki Seikkula O. Kolehmainen Kalle Sutinen E. Niemi Heila Santeri Lauri Inki J. Ware (also spelled Wäre or Väre) F. H. Vuori Kalle Anttila Arvid Seppala (Seppälä) Emil Elo Edward Sjon (Mathias Edward Sjön) O. Hanninen Matti Ramppi (Ramppainen) Elias Holsa Oskar Paananen (alias Oskar Johnson) E. Outinen
Unsurprisingly, all of the individuals above, with the possible exception of F. North, have Finnish first names or surnames. Several names are partially anglicized by omitting the diacritical marks above some of the vowels in surnames, while a few first names and surnames are apparently fully anglicized.
A Workers' Restaurant
The Hoito Restaurant opened its doors on May 1st, 1918, the day celebrated as “May Day” or International Workers' Day. It is noteworthy that Aarnio, the owner of the restaurant that immediately preceded the Hoito, had agreed to vacate the space by May 2nd. Although the decision is not recorded in the minutes, it appears that the founders of the Hoito had insisted on moving that one day earlier so that they could officially launch the restaurant on May Day. The symbolic act of opening the restaurant on the day that workers around the world celebrate the achievements of the labour movement is but one indication of their beliefs, also concretely embedded in the rules that governed how the Hoito functioned.
The original Constitution and By-laws reveal a highly democratic structure and egalitarian approach. These rules prohibited the payment of dividends to members and amassing large sums of money. A reserve fund of $300-$500 would be maintained to help deal with the unknown. Prices would be lowered or money invested in higher quality food stuffs if the reserve fund exceeded this amount. After most of the “comrade loans” had been repaid, the Board of Directors decided that all patrons who purchased weekly meal tickets would be equal in terms of their decision-making power. When the restaurant opened, a weekly meal ticket cost $6.00. This not only entitled the ticket holder to three meals a day, but also 11 provided the right to attend the monthly General Assembly – the highest decision-making body in the organization – and eligibility for election to the Board of Directors, which oversaw auditing and other day-to-day matters. Terms on the Board of Directors, limited to three months, ensured a frequent rotation of members. This rotation was designed to prevent the formation of an entrenched bureaucracy or controlling elite.
The Hoito had, early on, been set up explicitly as a consumers' co-operative. As can be seen in the original Hoito Constitution, the word “co-operative” was crossed out due to the term's association of with traditional shareholder co-operatives. As was made abundantly clear in a report delivered during the Hoito Restaurant's ten-year anniversary celebrations, published in Industrialisti, traditional co-operatives were to be regarded as middle-class organizations, not suitable to the needs of the working-class movement. Traditional co-operatives, the report stated, had been formed by small producers to combat the dominance of large-scale capital in production, exchange, and consumption, and in the process, frequently lowered workers' wages and standard of living in an effort to compete in the market. In contrast, the consumers, rather than shareholders, held all decision-making power in consumers’ co-operatives. Furthermore, the consumers' model provided practical benefits directly to wage workers by purchasing goods in larger quantities, resulting in increased affordability and quality. Although the report did not discuss how those working in consumers' co-operatives benefit from this model it is notable that, even during the Great Depression, the Hoito paid wages at more than twice the pay of private restaurants, and more than three dollars above the rate of other establishments.29
The restaurant operated in accordance with these rules until 1974, when the Hoito came under the full control of the Finlandia Club, with only a few changes. In the late 1920s, the reserve fund amount had been increased to $3000-$5000 and this was again increased in the 1950s to $10,000. Also, in the 1950s voting rights in General Assemblies had been limited only to those with a full-year record of patronage on any matter pertaining to rules, money, or property. The final significant change to the rules prohibited the contribution of any assets to any political organization or towards furthering their aims.30 The influence of the IWW is again evident, as the union remained skeptical, if not outright hostile, to the notion that political parties or electoral methods could improve the lives of working people. The IWW vision of social change has its basis in the action of workers' organizations alone, without political intermediaries.
The values of democratic rank-and-file control extended to the management of the restaurant. The manager was to be elected from among the patrons themselves and answerable to the Board of Directors. A.T. Hill was hired as first manager of the Hoito, the first of many union organizers to hold the manager position, receiving a salary of $50 per month. Hanna Hill (apparently no relation to A.T. Hill) was hired as the first head cook of the Hoito Restaurant, earning a monthly salary of $40 per month. The other members of the original Hoito Restaurant staff were Hulda Viertola (Mäki), Eva Taskinen (Nurmi), Hilja Klint, Ventla Haapala, Naimi Oja (Laine), and Saimi Kölövi. Their wages ranged from $30 a month for the cook's helper to $27 a month for servers and other staff. The Hoito maintained a tradition of including meals in addition to wages for all staff for decades.
29 Industrialisti May 16, 1928 and Halonen, “Short History of the Hoito.” 30 Industrialisti May 16, 1928; Industrialisti April 23, 1968; and Halonen, “Short History of the Hoito.” 12
The manager traditionally did not interfere much with the day-to-day activities of the staff, particularly in the kitchen, contributing to the development of a fiercely independent, proud, and largely self-managed workforce. Servers and kitchen staff organized their own schedules for their respective areas and regularly brought their concerns forward to the Board of Directors and General Assembly. In the mid-1920s they too joined the IWW, forming a local of the General Recruiting Union. In 1938 the Hoito workers voted on a mandate to strike to enforce a demand for a six day work week, with no reduction in pay, and an eight-hour day on all jobs. However the matter appears to have been resolved without strike action.
The Hoito followed the rhythms of the logging season in its early years. In the late fall and early winter, lumber workers migrated from the city to remote logging camps in droves to begin the work of felling trees and skidding and hauling logs over frozen trails and roads. This would typically be a quiet time for the restaurant. In some years the manager would be laid off for part of the winter season with all administrative tasks jointly managed by the staff and Board of Directors. With the arrival of the spring and the log drive, lumber workers flooded back into the city. The Hoito regularly served between 200 to 300 customers daily who, during the first 15 years of the restaurant, sat at long communal tables that seated 12 people.
The restaurant dealt with its share of troubles thanks to its association with the radical-wing of the Canadian labour movement. In September 1918 – less than five months after the Hoito was established – the Canadian federal government outlawed the IWW along with several other, primarily immigrant, organizations. As the minutes show, the Board of Directors provided loans or collected donations so that their fellow workers who had violated the government ban would be able to secure legal defense. The ban on the union remained in place until 1923. Lumber workers joined the legal One Big Union of Canada (OBU) in the interim, and reflecting this change, the Finnish OBU Support Circle became the majority shareholder of the Finnish Labour Temple in 1920. Large numbers of lumber workers re- joined the Wobblies when the union re-appeared in northern Ontario in 1925, with control of the Labour Temple shifting to the Canadian Industrial Unionist Support League, a Finnish- Canadian IWW support organization. By this time the District of Thunder Bay had become the single-largest stronghold of the IWW movement in Canada.
While each generation has left its distinctive mark on the Hoito, the menu has remained largely unchanged for a century. It represents the culinary embodiment of the “Finglish” dialect spoken in Thunder Bay – a distinct combination of working-class Canadiana with Finnish characteristics – with its origins in the food served in logging camps 100 years ago. As one of the oldest restaurants in Canada “The Hoito”, as it is known to locals, remains a living monument to Finnish-Canadian history, culture, and heritage.
13
The Constitution of the Hoito Co-operative Restaurant
1. This consumers' co-operative restaurant is in Port Arthur and began operations on May 1, 1918.
2. The purpose of this co-operative restaurant is to purchase and serve food for payment in cash.
3. This co-operative restaurant's membership is composed of all the co-operative restaurant's patrons.
4. This co-operative restaurant began operations by taking five dollar ($5.00) loans from its members until the required start-up sum was collected. These loans will be repaid later.31
5. Those individuals who have provided a $5.00 loan and those who pay for meals in advance through the purchase of weekly tickets shall have voting rights for all issues concerning this co-operative restaurant.
6. This co-operative restaurant shall not pay dividends to its membership and large sums of capital will not be accumulated. Only a small reserve fund of $300 to $500 will be necessary to maintain the restaurant year-round.
7. The membership of this co-operative restaurant shall elect from among themselves a manager, a 7-member Board of Directors, and other necessary officials.
8. The duties of the manager are to handle the co-operative restaurant's finances, maintain bookkeeping, and fulfill tasks as instructed by the Board of Directors. The manager must also obtain a bond in an amount determined by the membership.
9. The Board of Directors will be elected and that during every monthly meeting two members will vacate their positions and be replaced by two elected members and every three months three members will be replaced. In this way the term for a member of the Board of Directors will be three months. The Board of Directors is responsible for all of the co-operative restaurant's assets.
10. These rules can be amended or supplemented at a membership meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote.
By-Laws Concerning Management
I. The Board of Directors will supervise management in the following ways: a) The Board of Directors members shall hold the cash register key. b) Each member of the Board of Directors shall in turn count the cash [after dinner] when the restaurant is closed, with the following procedure:
31 This section was crossed out in the original document, likely after the loans had been repaid. 14
1: The weekly ticket stubs that were sold that day are to be counted and the weekly tickets to be sold for the following day are to be given to the cashier.
2: The cash register tape is to be counted and reviewed to ensure that the sales for that day matches the number of tickets sold.
3: The revenue for the entire day is to be calculated with the manager; the manager's and cashier's daily count is to be reviewed and compared with the revenue for the entire day, from which it will be seen if any errors were made in handling cash, and if someone taking care of the till has made an error they must be informed of this.
4: Finally, a clear count must be compiled for that day, dated, and signed by the auditor.
5: The duties of the auditor also include presenting this information alongside the manager's activity report.
II. The manager's duties and their supervision. a) The manager cannot run the till except for during his shift, and cannot exchange money at the till alone without the cashier’s consent. b) The manager must be present when the cashier’s shifts start and end to ensure that the cash is counted correctly. Similarly, in the evenings the manager must be present to receive the cash and to record the day’s revenue in the logbook, at which point the Board of Directors member whose turn it is to serve as auditor must be present to ensure that this is recorded correctly. c) The manager must deposit the previous day’s revenue daily in the bank. The auditor must ensure every evening that the sum from the previous day has been deposited in the bank by reviewing the bankbook. d) The manager cannot withdraw a penny from the bank, nor can the manager sign for a withdrawal unless it is validated by a Board of Directors member with signing authority. e) All bills are to be paid through the bank. If smaller expenditures arise from time-to-time, that cannot be paid through the bank but rather must be paid in cash, the double receipt method must be used. f) The manager will have some amount of money with which to change large and small amounts at the till when it is needed. Attention
These rules are to be presented on the last page of the consumers' restaurant minute book.
15
Minutes drafted at the meeting to establish the “poikatalo” held at the Labour Temple March 27, 1918. V. Pelto opened the meeting.
§ 1
F. Laine was chosen as the chairman and the undersigned as the recording secretary.
§ 2
We discussed the possibilities of establishing a co-operative restaurant for the community, and it was unanimously decided to start this undertaking.
§ 3
We discussed the possibility of obtaining a location for the aforementioned purpose, and a five person committee was selected to find out if the Local and Aarnio would hand over the basement restaurant premises for the “poikatalo.”32 If it this will not be permitted, the committee is to look elsewhere for a location. Selected to the committee were: Alex Lehto, Niilo Nurmi, Frank Laine, Ed Mäki, and V. Pelto.
§ 4
For the committee, noted in the section above, was also left the drafting of rules for the “poikatalo” and they were tasked to bring them for approval at the next meeting.
§ 5
A collection was taken for the cost of renting the meeting room which is $2.00. The collection produced $2.50.
§ 6
Comrade Alex Lehto was chosen to receive the collection and to pay the rent and give Ed Mäki 25 cents for obtaining the paper for the minutes.
§ 7
The calling of the next meeting was left to the committee noted in Section 3, as soon as they
32 The term “Local” refers to the Port Arthur Finnish Socialist Local of the Finnish Socialist Organization of Canada, an affiliate of the Social Democratic Party of Canada (1911-1918). The Port Arthur Finnish Socialist Local was the majority shareholder of the Finnish Building Company, the incorporated joint-stock company that owned the Finnish Labour Temple, when the Hoito Restaurant was established in 1918. The Hoito Restaurant paid rent to this organization for the use of the restaurant we it started in 1918. In 1920 the Finnish One Big Union Support Circle became the majority shareholder of the Finnish Building Company.
Aarnio refers to the individual that owned the restaurant in the basement of the Finnish Labour Temple previous to the Hoito Restaurant. 16 can get everything in order.
Meeting adjourned. On behalf of the meeting, Edward Mäki Frank Laine (approved March 28)
Minutes drafted at the meeting to establish a co-operative restaurant March 28, 1918. Comrade E. Lehto opened the meeting.
§ 1
F. Laine was chosen as the chairman and the undersigned as the recording secretary.
§ 2
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and approved them with amendments.
§ 3
The committee chosen at the previous meeting announced that they had asked the Local about the basement for the purpose of establishing a “poikatalo.” The Local has requested definite information on whether or not there are truly enough bachelors here backing this effort so that it does not end up a mess. It was decided to compile a list of those who support this effort and later we will collect $5.00 for shares (loans) for the purpose of raising start-up funds. It was decided to provide this list of names to the Local meeting on the 31st of this month.
§ 4
A collection was take for the cost of renting the meeting room, which produced $2.00.
§ 5
The previously selected rules committee was instructed to request that the meeting room be provided free of charge for the “poikatalo” meetings.
§ 6
It was decided to hold the next meeting on the evening of April 3rd in the upper hall of the Labour Temple.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, 17
Edward Mäki Frank Laine (approved April 3)
Minutes drafted at the meeting to establish the “poikatalo” held at the Labour Temple April 3, 1918.
§ 1
The meeting was opened by comrade A. Lehto. F. Laine was chosen as the chairman and the undersigned as the recording secretary.
§ 2
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
§ 3
K. Ahlbom, on behalf of the Finnish Socialist Local negotiating committee, announced that Aarnio will vacate the restaurant space on May 2nd, so the premises will be available to the new “poikatalo,” which was unanimously approved. The final approval will, however, wait until the Local presents its rent proposal etc.
§ 4
It was decided to take the remaining food stuffs from Aarnio when he leaves.
§ 5
Comrade F. Laine read the draft rules prepared for the “poikatalo” on behalf of the rules committee which were approved in their original form after being reviewed in their entirety, section by section. Their transcription will wait until the Board of Directors obtains the required licenses.
§ 6
A Board of Directors was chosen, to which the following seven members were accepted: comrades A. Lehto, J. Sato, A. Hill, M. Koski, J. Wäre, O. Suomela, and E. Tuomi.
§ 7
The Board of Directors was tasked with collecting five ($5.00) dollar shares or loans from bachelors in the community for the purpose of raising the required start-up funds, as well as advertising the opening for the manager position.
§ 8
It was decided to obtain a $500.00 bond from the manager. 18
§ 9
We proposed a discussion about assigning a name for the new “poikatalo,” but since nobody had suggested a suitable name the matter was left until the next meeting.
§ 10
Comrade A. Lehto was tasked with finding out at the Local meeting if we can use the upper hall for free for our meeting.
§ 11
The matter of calling the next meeting was left to the Board of Directors.
§ 12
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, Armas T. Hill (Recording Secretary)
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 4, 1918. All members of the Board of Directors were present. A. Lehto was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as the recording secretary.
§ 1
We discussed obtaining necessary staff and decided to: a) advertise the open manager position and find out if it is possible to fill the position with someone from the community by purchasing advertisements in front of the Labour Temple. The application period will be open until May 8th and if there are no applicants by then we will advertise the open position in the newspaper. Placing the advertisements was left to the recording secretary. b) Comrades A. Lehto and J. Sato were chosen to inquire about the desired wages of current cook Mrs. Hill and the girls Saimi Kölövi and Evi Taskinen and if they still wish to remain.
§ 2
Comrades M. Koski and O. Suomela were selected as loan collectors.
§ 3
We decided to hold the next meeting on Monday the 8th in the evening.
Meeting adjourned
19
In witness whereof, Armas Hill (Recording Secretary)
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 8, 1918. Present were comrades J. Sato, O. Suomela, M. Koski, J. Wäre, E. Tuomi, and the undersigned. Comrade J. Sato served as chairman.
§ 1
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
§ 2
Since we only we received one application for the manager position, it was decided that it would be appropriate to advertise the open position in the Vapaus and Industrialisti or mention it in both, so that the Board of Directors cannot be accused of inactivity.33 The task of sending the advertisements was left to the recording secretary.
§ 3
Comrade J. Sato announced that cook Mrs. Hill and the girls have agreed to remain in their roles.
§ 4
Comrades J. Wäre and M. Koski were chosen as representatives to the Local's Board of Directors meeting to draft a rental agreement.
§ 5
Comrade J. Sato proposed that repairs done to the restaurant kitchen flooring be presented to the Local's Board of Directors, which was left to the individuals mentioned in the previous section.
§ 6
Obtaining additional staff was left to the staff inquiry committee selected at the previous meeting.
§ 7
Comrade A. Hill proposed that it is necessary to begin making arrangements with regards to food stuffs. This was discussed and Comrade Hill was chosen to find out how it would be
33 The Vapaus (Liberty), published in Sudbury, Ontario, was the newspaper of the Finnish Socialist Organization of Canada. Industrialisti (Industrialist), published in Duluth, Minnesota, was the Finnish-language daily newspaper of the Industrial Workers of the World union. 20 possible to obtain the majority of food stuffs for the most favourable wholesale prices, and to inform us of the terms of small grocery stores in the event that grocery wholesale terms cannot be secured. He was also tasked with making arrangements with the current milk deliverer with regards to milk.
§ 8
The calling of the next meeting was left to the recording secretary, if important matters emerge before the 20th.
§ 9
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, Armas T. Hill (Recording Secretary)
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 21, 1918. Present were comrades Wäre, Sato, Lehto, Koski, Suomela, and the undersigned. A. Lehto served as chairman.
§ 1
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
§ 2
Comrades Sato and Lehto informed us that they were still unsure with respect to staff as they have not not treated the matter very urgently. However, having been ensured that we will get staff, the interviews will still be left in their care.
§ 3
Comrade Hill informed us that there is a possibility for grocery wholesale for flour, among other things, but not for fresh meat. We will have the same terms for milk delivery as Aarnio previously did.
§ 4
Comrade Lehto proposed that we try to negotiate with Kivelä for the purchase of flour, grains etc., the decision of which was left for the next meeting.34
34 This refers to Kivelä Bakery on 111 Secord Street. 21
§ 5
Two applications for the manager position were received, which were read, discussed, and briefly evaluated based on what is known about the applicants. However, the Board of Directors decided not to recommend anyone in particular, but left the matter to be decided entirely by the general assembly.
§ 6
The loan collectors reported that the total sum of loans collected is $250.00. The meeting tasked them to acquiring some more, at least up to $300, so that there will be some start-up funds left after rent ($100) is paid.
§ 7
Comrade O. Suomela was chosen as treasurer.
§ 8
The next meeting was left to the Board of Directors to decide to change if important matters demand it.
§ 9
The meeting was adjourned with the unanimous decision to attend the Finnish Socialist Local's Board of Directors meeting as a group to discuss and negotiate the rental agreement.
In witness whereof, Armas T. Hill (Recording Secretary)
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 21, 1918. The meeting was opened by A.T. Hill.
§ 1
Comrade Ikonen was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as the recording secretary.
§ 2
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
§ 3
We read the Local's Board of Director's proposed rental agreement, which was approved. Since it became apparent in the rental agreement that the Board of Directors will be responsible for the Local's furniture in the restaurant, it was decided to make an amendment 22 to the rules to include the Board's duties and responsibilities for the co-operative restaurant's use of assets.
§ 4
The question of choosing a name for the restaurant emerged from the unfinished business of the previous meeting, but since we have still not heard any suggestions it was again left to the next meeting.
§ 5
Two written applications for the manager position were received: Beck from Two Harbors and Helstein from Fort William. Also A.T. Hill, who was in attendance, presented his application. We discussed and briefly evaluated the applicants in so far as we were knowledgeable about their personal abilities, and afterwards unanimously selected A.T. Hill for the position. His wages will be $50 a month plus food and he promised to secure a reasonable bond prior to starting the position.
§ 6
We discussed drafting by-laws for the purpose of the general upkeep of the business and the control of the manager's activity, which was left to the Board of Directors to prepare in time for the next meeting.
§ 7
Comrade A. Lehto reported that he is incapable of serving on the Board of Directors because of his employment, so Oscar Johnson was selected as his replacement and Comrade Matt Ramppainen was selected to replace A.T. Hill.
§ 8
Comrades Jack Koski, Eino Johnson, and Niilo Vahtera were chosen as auditors.
§ 9
The Board of Directors reported that $250 in loans have been collected, but the Board has the intention of collecting at least $300, which the meeting also approved.
§ 10
The Board of Directors was tasked with securing the necessary staff in time for the next meeting.
§ 11
The calling of the next meeting was left to the Board of Directors.
23
§ 12
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, Armas T. Hill (Recording Secretary)
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 22, 1918.
§ 1
We discussed unfinished business from the previous meeting related to obtaining staff. It was decided to ask former employees and obtain more as the need arises.
§ 2
We discussed obtaining flour and grains and decided to ask Kivelä if we can get them cheaper through him. Information on where to acquire groceries for the cheapest terms was left to the manager.
§ 3
We selected three individuals – M. Koski, J. Wäre, and J. Sato – to draft by-laws and bring them to the next meeting of the Board of Directors.
§ 4
We discussed cash management and decided to arrange it in the same way as before.
§ 5
Meeting adjourned.
O. Suomela
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 26, 1918. Present were Sato, Wäre, Tuomi, Koski, Ramppainen, and the undersigned.
§ 1
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved with minor edits.
24
§ 2
We discussed the wages for the servers and decided to pay 27 dollars per month.
§ 3
We discussed obtaining a license and decided to acquire it after the general assembly has chosen a name etc.
§ 4
We discussed advertising our business in the newspaper but left the matter to the general assembly.
§ 5
The manager was tasked with finding out where it would be most affordable to obtain meat and butter.
§ 6
M. Koski and O. Johnson were chosen on behalf of the “poikatalo” to reserve the furniture that Aarnio surrendered for use by the co-operative restaurant.
§ 7
The “poikatalo” general assembly was decided to be held on Sunday the 28th at 1 p.m.
§ 8
We discussed the purchase of wood and left the matter for the manager.
§ 9
We reviewed the by-laws drafted for the manager which were approved as such.
§ 10
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O. Suomela Recording Secretary
25
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly April 28, 1918
§ 1
The meeting was opened by Armas Hill, J. Wäre selected as chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
§ 3
The name of the “poikatalo” was discussed. Three proposed names received support which were put to a vote. Hoito received (10) ten votes, Taisto (6) six votes, and Allen (2) votes, so the name chosen was Hoito.35
§ 4
It was decided to add a section to the rules, that the Board of Directors is responsible for all of the assets used in the “poikatalo.”
§ 5
Staff wages were discussed and the Board of Directors proposal was approved that kitchen and dining room staff will be paid 27 dollars a month, the cook's helper between 27 and 30 dollars a month, and the cook 40 dollars a month.
§ 6
We read the by-laws drafted by the Board of Directors which were approved, except the taking of cheques was left out.
§ 7
The arrangement of food portion sizes was discussed, but the matter was left in the care of the Board of Directors.
§ 8
Tuomi asked who is responsible if it happens that we are fined for some reason. It was decided that the restaurant will be responsible.
35 The first two of these names in English are Care (Hoito) and Struggle (Taisto). Taisto (Struggle) refers to the class struggle as well as the first line in the chorus of the popular left-wing anthem the Internationale - “C'est la lutte finale” in the French original, literally “this is the final struggle,” translated as “Tää on viimeinen taisto” in the 1905 Finnish translation Kansainvälinen. As to the final proposed name, the somewhat curious Allen, this may be a play on the Finnish adverb ”alle” meaning below or underneath in reference to the basement location of the restaurant. 26
§ 9
It was decided to still keep the price of food the same as it was before, during Aarnio's time. Weekly tickets are six dollars and tickets are in effect only for one week unless the individual that leaves for a day or two has informed the manager. If an individual leaves the city before the ticket has expired they will be refunded for the remaining value of the ticket when claimed.
§ 10
We discussed the question of providing free coffee for those that have a weekly ticket or if we will charge separately for coffee now, at the beginning, until the restaurant gets going a little better, which was put to a vote. Against free coffee 17 votes and for free coffee 12 votes, so the result is that we will charge everyone for coffee.
§ 11
It was decided to ask the manager for the notice period for servers, and for cooks the notice period will be one month and one week for other staff.
§ 12
It was decided to hold monthly general assemblies on the first Sunday of the month unless that Sunday is the first day of the month. In that case it will be held on the second Sunday.
§ 13
Restaurant advertisements were discussed but left to the next meeting.
§ 14
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, M. Koski Approved May 19, 1918 A. Lehto
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant Board of Directors meeting April 29, 1918. Present were Sato, Wäre, Johnson, Ramppainen, Koski, Tuomi, and the undersigned.
§ 1
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
27
§ 2
We decided to purchase three account books and weekly tickets for the restaurant.
§ 3
J. Wäre was tasked with interviewing servers.
§ 4
It was decided that the manager and cook are to follow the orders of the foodstuffs authorities.
§ 5
It was decided to take the restaurant license under the name of the “Hoito Restaurant.”
§ 6
It was decided to hand over loan monies as needed for the purchase of food stuffs.
§ 7
M. Koski was selected as auditor for the funds and cash register for the first week.
§ 8
Mrs. Hill was chosen as the signing authority for bank deposits.
§ 9
It was decided to obtain a tobacco and soda pop licence for the restaurant.
§ 10
It was decided to hold the next meeting on Sunday May 5th at 1 p.m.
§ 11
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O. Suomela Recording secretary
28
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting May 5, 1918. Present were Sato, Ramppainen, Koski, Johnson, and the undersigned.
§ 1
We read the minutes of the previous meeting and they were approved as such.
§ 2
A. Hill presented the meeting with his bond, the final approval of which was left to the general assembly.
§ 3
The manager presented his report on the activities of the restaurant in its first three days, which appeared satisfactory, and was approved as such.
§ 4
We discussed cleaning the kitchen oven and left the matter of hiring a man to clean it in the care of the manager.
§ 5
It was decided to place an iron grill on the window of the wood room, the work was left in the care of M. Koski.
§ 6
O. Suomela reported that he had accounted for the money collected by the manager.
§ 7
It was decided to present the issue of cleaning up the backyard to the Local's Board of Directors, and the task was left in the care of A. Hill.
§ 8
It was decided to obtain more milk in place of coffee as well as improve the food in the dinner pails.36
36 Dinner pail is translated from the Finglish “tiner peili.” Dinner pails – roughly equivalent to a lunch box – were cylindrical vessels, sometimes with multiple compartments that fit together, used by workers to bring their food to work in the early twentieth-century. They became a popular symbol of the manual worker during this period. The term “dinner pail” became popularized during American President William McKinley's successful campaign for re-election in 1900 under the slogan “Four More Years of the Full Dinner Pail.” It is not clear if meals in the early days of the Hoito Restaurant were served in dinner pails, or similar vessels, or if the term is used here as slang to refer to the meals in general. 29
§ 6
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O.Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting May 10, 1918. Present were Sato, Koski, Tuomi, Johnson, Ramppainen, and the undersigned.
§ 1
We read and approved the minutes of the previous meeting.
§ 2
Hill reported to the meeting that the window of the wood room has now been affixed with an iron grill and the pipes in the room have also been cleaned.
§ 3
The manager reported on the activities of the restaurant up to now, which was approved as such.
§ 4
It was decided to hold the “poikatalo” general assembly on Sunday the 19th of this month at 1 p.m.
§ 5
J. Wäre reported that some individuals had made accusations against the manager, which were discussed, but mainly for the purposes of clarification. The matter was left to the next Board of Directors meeting.
§ 6
J. Wäre will be the auditor next week.
§ 7
We discussed ordering newspapers for the “poikatalo” as well as advertising in newspapers, but we left the matter to be brought forward at the general assembly.
30
§ 8
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O.Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting May 17, 1918. Present were Sato, Koski, Tuomi, Johnson, Ramppainen, and the undersigned.
§ 1
We read the minutes of the previous meeting which were approved with minor edits.
§ 2
We discussed unfinished business arising from the previous meeting, the accusations against the manager. The matter was dismissed as groundless due to lack of proof.
§ 3
We heard the manager's report which was approved.
§ 4
It was decided to take a general inventory of the restaurant's assets to present to the general assembly.
§ 5
Johnson asked if we could put milk in the dinner pails and this was not seen as possible, at least during the summer.
§ 6
J. Sato was ordered to be the auditor for the next week.
§ 7
It was decided to present to the Local's Board of Directors the buying of a new water tank for the kitchen. M. Koski was selected to bring the issue to the Board of Directors.
31
§ 8
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O.Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly May 19, 1918.
§ 1
The meeting was opened by M. Koski, A. Lehto was chosen as chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved without corrections.
§ 3
Advertising the “poikatalo” in the newspaper was discussed and it was decided to advertise in both Industrialisti and the Vapaus and to place bigger ads a couple of times, and then we will take out local advertisements once a week.
§ 4
The matter of sending the advertisements was left to the Board of Directors and the manager.
§ 5
The issue of subscribing to newspapers was discussed which was put to a vote, the result being 14 against and 9 in favour. So against won.
§ 6
We read the account statement which was unanimously approved as pure profit up to this point was $94.95.
§ 7
The issue of free coffee for those that have weekly tickets was discussed, which was put to a vote. The results were 17 in favour and 11 opposed. So it was decided to that free coffee service will begin on Monday May 20, 1918.
32
§ 8
The manager's bond letter was reviewed that his father, Topias Hill, had sent. He pledges to be responsible for up to $500. His home is located in Potts Township, Lot 9 Concession 3 in Rainy River District, Finland, Ontario. A. Petterson and A. Juhala were witnesses. This was unanimously approved.
§ 9
It was decided to leave the bond letter with the Board of Directors' treasurer, which the Board of Directors will also look after.
§ 10
The use of weekly meal tickets was discussed but this was unanimously dismissed.
§ 11
Punching the tickets three times per day was also presented but it was decided to begin using a name list on to which the day and evening will be marked, and we will only punch tickets every second day.
§ 12
The meeting was adjourned in good order.
On behalf of the meeting, David Tuomi
Approved June 2, 1918 John Sato
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting May 26, 1918. Everyone except for Tuomi was present.
§ 1
We read and approved the minutes of the previous meeting.
§ 2
O. Johnson was selected as the auditor for the next week.
§ 3
M. Koski reported that he had brought the issue of obtaining a new water tank to the Local's Board of Directors, who had promised to obtain a new one. 33
§ 4
Hill presented the accounts report which was approved.
§ 5
We discussed how often to pay restaurant staff wages. It was decided to pay twice per month and to withhold one week's pay if below.
§ 6
Johnson suggested that there are improvements to be made in the running of the till in the mornings, so that payment is collected from everyone. We instructed the manager to arrange for a girl to run the till in the mornings until the general assembly can decide if a specific staff person will fill this role.
§ 7
The boys of the Board of Directors were tasked with splitting wood for the restaurant's kitchen.
§ 8
Meeting adjourned
In witness whereof, O.Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting May 31, 1918. Everyone except for Tuomi was present.
§ 1
We read and approved the minutes of the previous meeting.
§ 2
Hill presented the accounts report which was approved, also M. Koski was chosen as a second person in the task of making an estimate of food stocks for the monthly accounts.
§ 3
It was decided to hold the general assembly on Sunday June 2nd at 7 p.m.
§ 4 34
Johnson reported noticing a mistake on the register which was discussed, however it became clear that it was an entry mistake and we decided to wash the numbers away and to give a notice to handle the register more carefully in the future.
§ 5
M. Ramppainen was chosen as auditor.
§ 6
Meeting adjourned.
O. Suomela
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly June 2, 1918.
§ 1
The meeting was opened by John Sato.
§ 2
John Sato was chosen to be the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 3
The “poikatalo” accounts were read to the meeting, which were as follows:
(including loaned capital) General revenues 3,259.55 General expenses 2,909.51 Remainder $354.04
Estimate of Assets Assets Savings 350.06 Food stuffs and Equipment 352.00 Total $702.06
Liabilities unpaid wages 51.50 unpaid bills 41.30 value of remaining tickets 102.00 Loan capital 295.00 35
Total $489.80
Pure profit for May $212.24
§ 4
The accounts were approved unanimously and the Board of Directors was granted freedom of responsibility [tilivapaus].
§ 5
Kalle Mäki and Vikke Laine were elected to the Board of Directors, as the rules state that two members of the Board of Directors are to vacate their positions after two months as well as on the third month, and new members elected to take their place.
§ 6
The auditor requested to be relieved of their duties, which was granted, and Edward Mäki was selected as a replacement.
§ 7
It was discussed if we should begin repaying the comrade loans, but the assembly saw it as best to leave them unpaid until the treasury increases to $300.00.
§ 8
It was decided to hire a cashier who will, with the manager, be subordinate to the Board of Directors' selected auditor during the audits who will possess the key and open the cash register during the manager and cashier girl's shift change.
§ 9
It was decided to hire the cashier for as little as possible, but we will not pay more than 27 dollars per month.
§ 10
The manager asked for a 10 dollar wage increase per month but, after a short discussion, he withdrew his request.
§ 11
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Edward Maki
36
Approved June 21, 1918 Kalle Mäki
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors extraordinary meeting June 3, 1918.
§ 1
It was decided to repair the restaurant's cash register, which is broken. M. Koski and A. Hill were chosen to obtain someone to repair it.
§ 2
We discussed the girl, who was decided will take care of the cash register, but were unable to do anything with respect to this. The members of the Board of Directors were tasked with finding out if a suitable individual is available. It was decided that the issue will be discussed in more detail at the general assembly.
§ 3
A. Hill was tasked with bringing the kitchen floor repair requirement to the Branch's Board of Director's meeting.
§ 4
Meeting adjourned.
O. Maki Interim recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting June 7, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes of the previous extraordinary meeting of the Board of Directors were read and approved.
§ 2
Hill reported that the cash register, which was decided to be repaired, is now in order.
§ 3
Hill reported that a girl has been hired to handle the cash register. The manager was tasked with informing weekly diners to notify the cash register attendant when they come to eat.
37
§ 4
The manager presented his report for the past week, which was approved.
§ 5
O. Suomela was tasked with auditing next week. It was decided to ask Pertti Oja to take the key to the register and be available when the cash is counted.
§ 6
The manager reported that he had notified the Branch's Board of Directors about the repairs to the kitchen floor.
§ 7
We discussed if we could get a retail license for the restaurant so that we could purchase goods for a cheaper price. The issue was discussed but not resolved. The issue was left for the general assembly.
§ 8
We discussed if we should be paid for splitting wood for the kitchen. It was decided that we would do the splitting as before.
§ 9
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O. Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting June 14, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
The meeting was informed that P. Oja was not able to take custody of the register key. It was decided that the manager will continue to have it.
38
§ 3
O. Mäki will be the auditor next week.
§ 4
The manager presented his report for the last week which was approved as such.
§ 5
The general bi-monthly assembly was decided to be held next Wednesday at 8 p.m.
§ 6
The meeting tasked the manager with giving a reminder to the cashier and to Eva(?) to carry out their duties better.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
O. Suomela
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” interim general assembly June 21, 1918
§ 1
John Sato opened the meeting, Kalle Mäki was elected chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved without corrections.
§ 3
The bi-monthly account statement was read and also approved.
§ 4
The use of the cash register key was discussed and how it might be organized for those responsible for audits, but this was left for the next general assembly.
§ 5
A new Board of Directors member was chosen to replace Matti Koski, Ed Mäki was elected.
39
§ 6
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, David Tuomi
Approved July 7, 1918 A. Lehto
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting June 28, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
E. Mäki was tasked as auditor next week.
§ 3
Hill presented a report on the restaurant's accounts which appeared satisfactory and was approved.
§ 4
It was decided to hold the next general assembly on Sunday July 7th at 7 in the evening.
§ 5
O. Suomela was assigned to be the second goods receiver.
§ 6
Meeting adjourned.
O. Suomela Recording secretary
40
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly July 7, 191837
§ 1
Ed Mäki opened the meeting, A. Lehto was elected chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
It was decided to let the cash register keys remain as before as the assembly could not organize it any better.
§ 3
The June accounts for the “poikatalo” were read to the assembly. They are as follows:
Savings with loan capital from May 350.04 General revenue from June 3291.50 Total 3641.54
General expenses 3011.63 Savings 540.91
Summary of Hoito co-operative restaurant assets
Assets Savings 540.91 Food stuffs and furniture combined 430.00 Total $970.91
Liabilities Loan capital 295.00 May savings 212.14 Unpaid wages 56.65 Unpaid bills 22.76 Value of paid meal tickets 78.00 Total 664.55
Pure profit for June $306.42
The accounts were approved as correct and the Board of Directors granted a freedom of responsibility.
37 The date is incorrectly entered in the minute book as June 7. 41
§ 4
The Board of Directors elected new members. Elected in place of Ramppainen, Sato, and Wäre were:
Väinö Perna Kusti Perna Heikki Lingsrom
§ 5
It was discussed if we should begin repaying the comrade loans. It was unanimously decided to pay as much as we are able to people who want to move out of the community and for everyone else we will pay as much as our funds will allow, but under no circumstances so much that our savings decrease below $300 (three hundred) dollars as the “poikatalo” Hoito holds $300 (three hundred dollars) as a large cash reserve for security and to maintain the restaurant.
§ 6
The manager and cook both asked for a (10) ten dollar per month wage increase which was granted starting on the first day of July.
§ 7
Vilho Bohm and Paavo Wikkonen were chosen as auditors in place of Ed Mäki and J. Koski.
§ 8
It was decided that the manager will post the “poikatalo” rules on the wall of the “poikatalo” so that everyone who wishes to aquatint themselves with the rules can read them.
§ 9
It was decided to stop advertising the “poikatalo” in Industrialisti because this newspaper has been banned from coming to Canada.
§ 10
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, Edward Mäki
42
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting July 12, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved as such.
§ 2
W. Perna was tasked with auditing next week.
§ 3
The manager presented his report which was approved as such.
§ 4
Changes to food arrangements were discussed. Many statements were made, but it was left unchanged.
§ 5
It was decided to immediately begin storing the register tape as a precaution with the auditor's initials and the date on the tape.
§ 6
O. Suomela was chosen for the bi-monthly inventory.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
O. Suomela
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting July 19, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
The manager presented his report on the accounts and this was also approved.
§ 3
It was decided to obtain a cigarette license on the basis of the manager's report. 43
§ 4
Hill suggested that we obtain a telephone for the restaurant, which was supported by many who took the floor. This was left for the general assembly.
§ 5
Hill reported that Saimi wants to leave, it was decided to let her do so.
§ 6
Mrs. Lahti has informed us that she wants to work at the restaurant. It was decided to hire her to replace Saimi on a 25 dollar probationary wage on the condition that the kitchen girl may first take a position as a sever if she wants.
§ 7
O. Suomela was tasked with auditing next week.
§ 8
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O. Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting July 26, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
The manager presented the statement of accounts which was approved as such.
§ 3
O. Mäki was tasked with auditing next week.
§ 4
W. Perna was tasked with the monthly inventory.
44
§ 5
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O. Suomela Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting August 2, 1918.
§ 1
The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
The manager presented the statement of accounts, which appeared satisfactory and was approved.
§ 3
W. Laine was tasked with auditing next week.
§ 4
Hill reported that one girl has been hired for the restaurant, obtaining another one remained in the manager's care.
§ 5
The cash register attendant notified that she wanted a wage increase. It was decided to pay 25 dollars per month.
§ 6
The main meeting had concluded, after which we made the decision that we would not sell milk or any other food stuffs off premises, or at least nowhere other than the Local's restaurant.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, O. Suomela Recording secretary 45
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly August 4, 1918.
§ 1
Armas Hill opened the meeting, John Sato was chosen as chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
§ 3
We read the July account statement which was approved along with the auditor's statement. This is as follows:
Savings with loan capital from July 31 $540.91 General revenue July 31 $3765.20 Total $4306.11
July 31 expenses in total 3513.68 Savings 792.43
Summary of Hoito co-operative restaurant assets
Assets July 31 savings In the Bank 755.83 Cash 36.60 Total 792.45
Food stuffs and furniture combined $360.00 Total 1152.43
Liabilities July 31 Loan capital 260.00 May savings 212.14 July savings 306.42 Unpaid wages 45.45 Unpaid bills 32.05
Value of paid meal tickets 156 Cash savings 140.57 Total 1152.43
46
§ 5
Kalle Laine, Iivari Laine, and Eli Kaipio were selected to the Board of Directors.
§ 6
Hill proposed that it is necessary to get a telephone for the restaurant which after a brief discussion was approved.
§ 7
It was decided to give milk with lunch for all those who want it.
§ 8
It was decided to request that the Board of Directors get a replacement table and to pay enough that it will be obtained.
§ 9
It was decided to pay off all of the comrade loans since there is money for it.
§ 10
It was discussed whether the restaurant should be closed in the evenings. After a short debate it was put to a vote. The proposals were 10:00 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. which was determined by one vote. The restaurant will close at 10:30 p.m.
§ 11
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, Kalle Laine Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors extraordinary meeting August 5, 1918.
§ 1
We discussed the wages of the kitchen girls, as they had requested an increase. We decided to pay them the same wage as the dining room girls, so 30 (thirty) dollars per month and three dollars more to the assistant cook, so 33 dollars.
47
§ 2
There was the issue of changing the ticket system for weekly diners, which would be more practical if the manager used a receipt book so that the buyer would receive a receipt upon purchase and the other half of the receipt would remain in the book. However we decided to leave this unchanged for now.
§ 3
It was decided to give the manager's bond letter, which was held by one of the individuals on the Board of Directors, to the undersigned for storing as the previous holder had left the Board.
§ 4
It was decided to always record the names of those present in the minutes in the future.
§ 5
Those present were:
Väinö Perna Kusti Perna Vikke Laine Kassu Laine Armas Hill
And on behalf of the meeting, Kalle Mäki
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting August 9, 1918.
§ 1
Ivari Laine was chosen as the auditor for next week.
§ 2
It was decided to leave the wood splitting in the care of the manager.
§ 3
It was decided to hold an inventory from which it can be determined if it is necessary to call a general assembly in two weeks.
48
§ 4
The undersigned was chosen to arrange the inventory along with the manager and auditor.
§ 5
It was decided to notify the manager that the sale of groceries, milk, or other food stuffs will not be permitted, except for the needs of the Local.
§ 6
Present at the meeting were:
Ivari Laine Vikke Laine Kusti Perna Väinö Perna
As well as in certainty, Kalle Mäki Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur Hoito “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting August 16, 1918.
Present at the meeting were Armas Hill, Kusti and Väinö Perna, Ivari Laine, Vihtori Laine, and Kalle Laine.
Kusti Perna was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 1
We read the bi-monthly expense and revenue statement which was unanimously approved, since the restaurant had produced profit.
§ 2
We discussed how the food might be arranged so that the foodstuffs authorities cannot fine us, so that it would not produce too much extra work, and so that there would be sufficient food, but the matter was left to the manager.
§ 3
We discussed the hiring of another girl to the restaurant but this matter was left to the manager.
49
§ 4
There was a discussion about what to do with respect to milk bottles if they break while being washed. It was decided that the “poikatalo” is not responsible.
§ 5
Eli Kaipio was chosen as the auditor for next week.
§ 6
It was decided to pay Vihtori Laine $1.50 for a milk bottle that he purchased to replace a broken one and that the cost be placed on the equipment account.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Hoito “poikatalo” Board of Directors meeting in Port Arthur August 23, 1918.
Väinö Perna was the chairman – Recording secretary.
All of the members of the Board of Directors were present, so as follows:
Kai Kaipinen Väinö Perna Kusti Perna Ivari Laine Vikke Laine Kassu Laine Armas Hill Kalle Mäki
§ 1
We read the minutes from the previous meetings, both of which were approved with the notice that going forward the recording secretary write the decisions made in full.
§ 2
Due to the increase in diners it was seen as necessary to hire another girl who will work in the kitchen as well as the dining room. 50
§ 3
It was decided to apply the food stuffs authorities directive for serving the types of food that the directive pertains to.
§ 4
We read the bi-monthly accounts statement which shows that the restaurant has advanced satisfactorily, so there was no reason for discussion.
§ 5
Kusti Perna was chosen as auditor for next week.
In witness whereof, Kalle Mäki Recording Secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly September 8, 1918.
§ 1
The meeting was opened by V. Pelto who was also chosen as chairman, the undersigned served as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved as such.
§ 3
With respect to the unpaid loans, it was decided to pay them as people come to collect them.
§ 4
We read the Hoito co-operative restaurant account statement for August 1 to September 1.
Revenue August 1 savings $792.43 August 31 revenue over the month $4678.50 Total $5470.93
August 31 expenses in total $4667.65 August 31 savings $803.28
51
Summary of assets
Assets August 31 savings $803.28 Food stuffs and furniture value combined $580 Total $1383.28
Liabilities August 31 Loan capital $150 May profit 212.14 June profit 306.42 July profit 140.37 Unpaid bills 94.10 Unpaid wages 64.35 Value of paid meal tickets 168 August profit 247.90 Total 1383.28
§ 5
New members were selected to the Board of Directors in place of those leaving. V. Pelto in place of V. Laine. Niilo Nurmi in place of K. Laine. J. Lehtimäki in place of E. Mäki.
§ 6
O. Suomela was selected as auditor in place of E. Johnson.
§ 7
It was proposed that meal times begin at 11:30 in the day and 5:30 in the evening however this was then left as it has been.
§ 8
The manager proposed to the assembly that we restrict coffee time during the day. After a long discussion it was decided to restrict coffee time as follows: 9:30 in the mornings on weekdays and 10:00 on Sundays and in the evenings 4:00 to 5:00, and the previous time in the evenings.
§ 9
The assembly was informed that it has been noticed that some diners have had to wait for the cashier sometimes. The assembly decided to give the manager a notice about this issue.
§ 10
The issue pertaining to prevailing agreement among staff was left to the Board of Directors 52 and the manager to settle.
§ 11
The assembly determined that two servers be arranged for morning service.
§ 12
Meeting adjourned.
J. Wäre Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly October 6, 1918.
§ 1
J. Wäre opened the meeting and was also chosen as chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved as such.
§ 3
The account statement of the previous meeting was read and approved along with the auditor's statement.
Revenue September 1 savings $803.28 September 30 revenue in total $4457.90 Total $5261.18
September 30 expenses in total 4698.72 September 30 savings 562.46 Total $5261.18
Summary of assets
Assets September 30 savings $562.46 Food stuffs and furniture value combined $670 Total $1232.46
53
Liabilities September 30 Loan capital $105 Previous month savings 906.83 Unpaid wages 58.35 Value of paid meal tickets 66 Savings 96.28 Total $1232.46
§ 4
The Board of Directors was granted freedom of responsibility.
§ 5
We discussed those causing trouble for the restaurant staff. It was decided that a single individual, without an individual chosen by the general assembly or the Board of Directors, does not have the right to give orders to staff. Conciliation was left to the Board of Directors.
§ 6
The manager presented a request for a 10 dollar wage increase, and it was granted.
§ 7
An observation was brought forward about dining times, since arriving to eat amidst service times is not allowed. After a few statements were made the matter was left to be addressed by the Board of Directors.
§ 8
We handled the issue of the crushed, hot coffee pulla.38 We came to the decision that the Hoito co-operative restaurant is not responsible for said pulla.
§ 9
It was decided that the manager will place a notice on the wall of the restaurant that the consumers of the pulla will be responsible for the pulla being crushed.
§ 10
The acquisition of a heating stove for the dining room was left in the care of the Board of Directors.
§ 11
The housekeeper asked if she could use the “poikatalo's” wood in her apartment, which was
38 Pulla is a sweet Finnish desert bread flavoured with cardamom. 54 approved without discussion.
§ 12
Meeting adjourned.
Gust Perna Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly November 3, 1918.39
§ 1
The meeting was opened by F. Laine and he also served as chairman.
§ 2
We read the account statement of the previous meeting which was approved.
§ 3
Hoito co-operative restaurant account statement October 1 to November 1.
Revenue October 1 savings 562.46 October 31 revenue in total 3472.95 Total $4035.41
October 31 expenses in total 3826.41 October 31 savings $209.00
Summary of assets
Assets October 31 savings $209.00 Food stuffs and furniture value combined 921.50 Total 1130.50
Liabilities October 31 Loan capital 90 Previous month profit $1003.11 Unpaid wages 58.35 Unpaid bills 60.95
39 The date for this meeting was incorrectly recorded as October 3 in the minutes. 55
Value of paid meal tickets $48 Savings 96.28 Total $1260.47 Loss $129.91
The Board of Directors was granted freedom of responsibility on the basis the auditor's statement.
§ 4
As the accounts from the previous month show, our restaurant made a loss last month. The manager was asked to provide an explanation as to what the biggest reason is for the loss. The answer was as follows: the price increase for many different ingredients and the staff wage increase. We did not see any other method to correct this other than to increase the price of the weekly tickets by 50 cents per week. So from this point onward the price of weekly tickets will be $6.50 and coffee 15 cents, to begin at some time in November.
§ 6
We voted on coffee, on the question of if an individual who does not come for breakfast can get coffee once or twice. The decision was made with 17 votes in favour that a diner with a ticket who does not eat breakfast can get coffee once in the morning. There were 2 votes in favour of getting coffee twice.
§ 7
Two new members were selected for the Board of Directors, A. Typpö and E. Retonen.
§ 8
The manager was asked to place a notice of the new prices on the wall of the restaurant.
§ 9
Paavo Mikkonen asked to be relieved of his auditor duties which was granted. R. Mäki was selected in his place.
§ 10
The Board of Directors decision to increase staff wages cost around 27 dollars.
§ 11
If any important matters emerged the Board of Directors must call a general assembly.
56
Meeting adjourned.
Gust Perna Recording secretary
Minutes draft at the December 8, 1918 Port Arthur Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly.
§ 1
J. Wäre opened the meeting and he also served as the chairman.
§ 2
The Hoito co-operative restaurant account statement for the previous month was read.
From the restaurant accounts November 1 to November 30.
November 1 savings 209.00 November 30 revenue in total 3004.70 Total 3213.70
November 30 expenses in total 2940.31 November 30 savings 273.39 Total 3213.70
Summary of assets
Assets November 30 savings 237.39 Food stuffs and 853 furniture value combined 121.91 October loss 1256.30 Total
Liabilities October 31 Loan capital 75 Previous month savings 1003.11 Unpaid wages 58.35 Unpaid bills 39.70 Value of paid meal tickets 79 Profit 8.14 Total $1256.30
57
§ 3
The Board of Directors was granted freedom of responsibility on the basis of the auditor's statement.
§ 4
Two new members were selected to the Board of Directors. J. Runsela in place of V. Nurmi and P. Mikkonen in place of Iivari Laine.
§ 5
We discussed the use of weekly tickets and made the decision that there is no need to mark them, but the buyer keeps the receipt for the ticket.
§ 6
The proposal was brought forward to close the restaurant Sunday mornings but since the issue did not receive support, it was left for consideration for an undetermined amount of time.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
Gust Perna Recording secretary.
Minutes drafted for the Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly January 5, 1919.
§ 1
Jussi Seare served as the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
We read the minutes of the previous meeting which were approved.
§ 3
The issue, raised at the previous meeting, of closing the restaurant Sunday mornings was discussed but was left on the table.
§ 4
The accounts for the previous month were read and approved on the basis of the auditor's statement and the Board of Directors was granted freedom of responsibility. 58
§ 5
Accounts
From the restaurant accounts December 1 to January 1 1919.
December 1 savings 273.39 December 31 revenue 3369.40 Total 3640.79
Expenses
December 31 food stuffs account 1208.78 Meat account 1080.11 Milk account 371 Sweets, tobacco, and soft drink account 185.60 Expense account 15.50 Furniture account 24.55 Rent account 100 Capital paid 5.00 Wages account 324 Savings 326.25 Total 3880.79
Summary of assets
Assets December 31 savings 326.29 Food stuffs and furniture value combined 785 Total 1240.16
Liabilities December 31 Loan capital 70 Previous month profit total 1011.25 Unpaid wages 58.35 Unpaid bills 26.45 Value of paid meal tickets 42 Profit 38.08 Total $1240.16
§ 6
J. Wäre asked if it is necessary to add another section to the restaurant's rules so that the Board of Directors would be elected in the winter, which was dicussed. It was decided to make a change that every diner has the same rights as those who have loaned money, in 59 other words those that use weekly tickets.
§ 7
Three new members were selected to the Board of Directors to replace those that left. F. Leppänen, M. Romppainen, and V. Perna were selected.
§ 8
Suomela was chosen as auditor and choosing the second one was left to the Board of Directors.
§ 9
Manager Armas Hill informed that he desired to be let go from his service which was unanimously approved, by January 10.
§ 10
The hiring of a temporary manager was discussed. J. Wäre informed us that he asked the current cashier Hilja Klint if she would take the temporary role, which she did, for the wage of 40 dollars per month, which was approved.
§ 11
J. Tenhunen asked if it would be necessary to demand a bond which was discussed. It was decided that we would ask for a 200 dollar bond and the issue was left in the care of the Board of Directors.
§ 12
A. Hill asked the assembly if he could grant a server a two week vacation without pay as the restaurant is not busy. This was approved and left to the Board of Directors.
§ 13
E. Engström proposed that the Board of Directors receive free coffee during evenings when they meet, which was approved.
§ 14
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, V. Perna Recording secretary
60
Minutes drafted at the Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly February 4, 191940
§ 1
J. Sato was selected as the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 3
We read the accounts which were approved on the basis of the auditor's statement and the Board of Directors was granted freedom of responsibility.
§ 4
Revenues January 10 1919.
January 1 savings 326.25 January 10 revenue total 797.20 Total 1123.45
Expenses
January 10 mixed items account 182.57 Meat account 205.41 Milk account 64.75 Sweets, tobacco, and soft drink account 39.90 Expense account 43.60 Rent account 80 Wages 37 Loans paid 5 Wages account 324 Balance 465.22 Total 1123.45
Summary of assets
Assets January 10 savings 465.22 Food stuffs and furniture value combined 620 Rent acquired 54.80
40 The month is incorrectly recorded in the minutes as January. 61
Loss 64.32 Total 1127.34
Liabilities January 10 savings 65 Profit and loss account 913.42 Unpaid wages 126.55 Unpaid bills 62.87 Value of paid meal tickets 19.50 Total 1197.34
Revenues and expenses January 10 savings 465.22 January 31 revenues 1614.35 Total 2079.57
Expenses January 31 mixed goods account 404.05 Meat account Milk account 88 Tobacco, sweets, soft drinks 67.40 Expense account 8 Furniture 5.75 Wages account 118.54 Savings 861.54 Total 2079.59
Summary of assets Assets January 31 inventory 504.50 Savings 861.54 Loss 257 Total 1368.21
Liabilities January 31 Share capital 65 profit and loss 866.10 unpaid wages 152.30 unpaid bills 252.71 Value of tickets paid in advance 32.50 Total 1368.61
§ 5
M. Koski was selected to be on the Board of Directors in place of Paavo Mikkonen.
62
§ 6
Two more were selected as auditors, J. Saano and J. Koski.
§ 7
We discussed an additional section to the rules which was approved, that every restaurant diner has the same authority in matters related to the restaurant.
§ 8
This section will be in place until decided otherwise.
§ 9
J. Wäre brought a matter to the assembly from the Board of Directors concerning the former manager A. Hill's request for a letter of reference, which was discussed and left for the Board of Directors to do.
§ 10
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, W. Perna
Minutes of the meeting of the “poikatalo” Hoito general assembly, March 9, 1919
§ 1
F. Laine was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 3
We read the account statement for the previous month and this was approved on the basis of the auditor's statement and the Board of Directors granted freedom of responsibility.
63
§ 4
Account statement February 1 to March 1, 1919.
Revenues
February 1 savings 861.54 February 28 revenue 2175.55 Total 3037.09
Summary of assets
Assets Savings 805.40 Inventory 491.33 Total 1296.73
Liabilities Starting capital 65 profit and loss February 1 863.53 unpaid bills 221.85 unpaid wages 66.75 Profit for the month 79.87 Total 1291.73
§ 5
Väinö Pelto was chosen in place of E. Engström on the Board of Directors.
§ 6
It was decided to advertise the open manager position until March 23.
§ 7
It was decided to pay the temporary manager D. Bohm 70 dollars per month.
§ 8
It was decided to demand a $300 bond from the temporary manager. For the incoming manager the Board of Directors will determine an amount commensurate with the size of the restaurant.
§ 9
It was decided to put a suggestion box into effect where diners can leave suggestions on whatever changes or improvements with respect to food. The Board of Directors can review the letters at their meetings. 64
§ 10
A great dissatisfaction emerged at the assembly with regards to food, in that it was intolerable. This is in part due to the temporary cook. The assembly made the decision that the improvements are to be made to the food one way or another. This was left to the Board of Directors to arrange.
§ 11
The Board of Directors was given the order to try and reduce the cook's leave time or then to obtain a better temporary cook.
§ 12
The rumours circulating about manager A.T. Hill's activity in the service of the restaurant are to cease or be substantiated. The assembly decided to select a three person committee to review the restaurant's books for the entirety of Hill's time. The following were selected to the committee: V. Pelto, L. Inki, and F. Laine.
§ 13
It was decided to hold an evening social during this spring, the organization of which will be handled by a five person committee. Selected to the committee were D. Bohm, L. Inki, V. Pelto, U. Vahala, and M. Ramppainen.
§ 14
The assembly decided to pay the hospital and doctor's fees of Hilja Klint, who served as manager, for March.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur Hoito co-operative restaurant meeting in Port Arthur March 23, 1919.
The meeting was opened by Väinö Perna who was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 1
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
There was a discussion about the ”poikatalo's” assets, so its financial value, and how much 65 there is which is not clear to many.
§ 3
There were two applications to the manager position. Frank Laine and Teeri Bohm. After a lengthy discussion this was put to a vote. Frank Laine received 47 votes and Teeri Bohm 27.
§ 4
The bond which will be required from the manager was left in the care of the Board of Directors.
§ 5
It was decided to put the restaurant suggestion box into effect, so that anyone that has suggestions with regards to the restaurant submit a letter.
§ 6
It was decided that that the price of a meal would be increased to 40 cents for breakfast, 45 cents for lunch and dinner, and $7 for a weekly ticket.
§ 7
The committee that investigated the former manager have given a statement that A. Hill has acted honestly.
§ 8
The need for an evening social was dismissed.
§ 9
A festival lunch was proposed but the issue was left for the Board of Directors.
§ 10
It was decided to pay Hilja Klint's hospital expenses for this month.
§ 11
Suomela wanted and recieved a release from the task of auditing. Kusti Lunpi replaced him. Jäkki Koski was also released from the same task and Kalle Laine took his place.
§ 12
The ”poikatalo's” cook has given her notice to be relieved of her services.
66
§ 13
With respect to the new cook, it was decided to advertise in the community by letter and a two person committee was chosen to search for candidates in person. Väinö Kallio and Teevi Bohm were selected to the commitee.
§ 14
It was decided to restore the restaurant's tables to their original condition.
§ 15
Arranging staff was left in the care of the Board of Directors.
§ 16
Nobody is allowed to address the kitchen aside from the restaurant's servers.
§ 17
It was decided that the closing date for the cook position will be April 20.
§ 18
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine
Minutes drafted for the Port Arthur ”poikatalo” Hoito restaurant general assembly Sunday April 6, 1919.
Johan Sato opened the meeting and was chosen as chairman. The undersigned served as recording secretary.
§ 1
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
§ 2
It was decided to pay hospital and doctor's fees of Hilja Klint for March which cost $50.65.
§ 3
One of the committee members responsible for finding a new cook has left the area. Teevi Tuomi has taken his place. 67
§ 4
The account statement was read and approved on the basis of the auditor's statement.
§ 5
Johan Sato, J. Wäre, and Frank Leppänen were replaced on the Board of Directors with Antti Typpö, Heikki Kari, and Johannes Saari.
§ 6
It was decided to maintain the price of meals as is.
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine
Revenue and Expenses
Revenue
March 1 cash 805.40 March 31 cash 4174.83 Total 4980.23 6 cents(?)
Expenses Miscellaneous goods account 3370.89 General expense account 543.50 Shares paid out 35 Money in the till 939.89 Total 4980.23
Summary of assets
Assets March 31 money in the till 939.89 Inventory and furniture 696.34 Assets 1636.23
Liabilities Loan debt 30 profit and loss account 143.40 unpaid wages 66.75 unpaid bills 2.40 68 tickets purchased in advance 93 March 1 profit and loss account total 1636.23
Restaurant's assets March 31 Total assets $1444.08
Kalle Laine
Port Arthur “poikatalo” general assembly Sunday April 13, 1919
Väinö Perna opened the meeting. Väinö Pelto was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 1
Three applications were received for the cook's position. Hilma Saarinen from Port Arthur, Santra Matson from Duluth, and Ida Kolehmainen from Toronto. After a short discussion Miss Santra Matson was chosen as the cook.
§ 2
It was decided to send Miss Matson a telegram and a letter to notify her that she has been chosen as the “poikatalo's” cook.
§ 3
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine
Minutes drafted for the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Hoito restaurant general assembly May 4, 1919.
§ 1
Matti Koski opened the meeting and was chosen as chairman and the undersigned served as recording secretary.
§ 2
The account statement for the previous month was read and unanimously approved and the auditor was granted freedom of responsibility. (Continued in section 9).
69
§ 3
Johan Wäre asked, what is to be done with the “poikatalo” financial assets, which continue to grow? After a brief discussion it was decided to improve the food as much as possible, and the rules that we have broken can be fixed by changing the rules.
§ 4
We discussed changing the meal tickets. The matter was resolved by a vote that they would remain as is.
§ 5
It was proposed that diners that purchase weekly tickets should receive free coffee, and at the same time this proposal was opposed, which was also resolved by a vote. The result was that everyone must pay for coffee for the time being.
§ 6
Väinö Perna and Matti Ramppainen left the Board of Directors and were replaced by Alja Kaipio and Paavo Mikkola.
§ 7
A rules committee was chosen which will make changes to the rules as needed. The following were selected to the committee:
Väinö Perna Frank Kasper Väinö Kallio J. Wäre J. Sato
They will bring their changes to the meeting next month for review.
§ 8
The manager was given the authority to do his best with respect to one of our countrymen who has fallen into a very wretched position.
§ 9
General Revenues
April 1 cash 939.89 April revenues 5472.96 Total 6412.85
70
General expenses 4727.40 Money in the till 1685.45 6412.85
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Edward Mäki
Minutes drafted at the “poikatalo” Hoito statutory general assembly June 6, 1919.
§ 1
Ed Mäki opened the meeting and was also chosen as chairman. The undersigned served as recording secretary.
§ 2
The general revenues and expenses for May were as follows.
Revenues and Assets
Food stuffs and fuel 650.65 Furniture 60 May 31, 1919 Cash 1636.10 Total 2346.75
Expenses and Liabilities
Unpaid wages 64.15 Meals paid in advance 59 unpaid bills 120.20 Loan debt 15 Assets 2088.40 2346.75
§ 3
Changes to particular rules were discussed, and ultimately the rules that were approved for the “poikatalo” are the ones that are presented in the following pages in this minute book. They are to be posted on the walls of the dining room.
§ 4
It was Väinö Pelto and Matti Koski's turn to leave the Board of Directors. Ronkka and Suomela were selected in their place. 71
§ 5
John Wäre was chosen as auditor and J. Sato as a backup. The former auditors were Kalle Laine and K. Perna.
§ 6
Advertising in the annual summer publication was discussed. It was decided to not place an advertisement.
§ 7
The Board of Directors activity report was approved as a notice to be published in the Vapaus.
§ 8
Changes to the price of meals were discussed. It was decided to keep prices as they are. It was decided that the food should be improved a little rather than worsened.
§ 9
The manager reported that he had purchased a grated door. The Board of Directors was instructed to send a bill for $31.50 to the tenant of the room.
§ 10
Meeting adjourned.
Väinö Pelto, Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the “poikatalo” Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly July 6, 1919.
§ 1
The meeting was opened by Kari Pöyh(?). Lauri Viitasaari was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved as such.
§ 3
The July accounts were read. 72
General revenues and expenses for June
Revenues 4538.33 June 1 till 1636.10 Total 6174.43
Expenses
Miscellaneous goods 1630.65 meat 918.60 milk 629.50 tobacco, soft drinks, 267.75 and sweets wages 372.55 rent 100 miscellaneous 39.60 June 30 cash 2206.78
§ 4
Victor Ronkka, Jalmar Saari, and Kari left the Board of Directors. Lehtimäki, Eetvart Suomi, and Väinö Hallio took their place. One more person, Väinö Mäki, was selected in place of Tyypö.
§ 5
Improvements to the food were discussed which was left in the care of the manager.
§ 6
The purchase of a safe was discussed which was left in the care of the Board of Directors.
§ 7
The price for women's meals was discussed, which will be 35 cents per meal.
§ 8
There was the question of giving free coffee for those individuals that dine with weekly tickets, which was approved.
§ 9
Meeting adjourned.
Bruuno Kallio Recording secretary 73
Minutes drafted at the Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly August 3, 1919.
§ 1
Lauri Viitasaari served as the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved as such.
§ 3
The Board of Directors purchased a safe in July, which was approved.
§ 4
The accounts for July were read.
July revenues and expenses
July revenues 4307.17 July 1 cash 2206.78 Total 6513.95
Expenses
Miscellaneous goods 1254.21 meat 946.89 milk 513.10 tobacco, soft drinks 271.95 wages 339.85 fuel 59.50 rent 100.00 miscellaneous 127.90 July 31 till 2401.55 6513.95
§ 5
It was decided to make improvements to the food.
§ 6
Those leaving the Board of Directors were replaced with the following: Lauri Viitasaari Mr. Engström Wille Huumo
74
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, Frank Lahti
Minutes from the Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly September 7, 1919.
§ 1
John Lehtimäki was chosen as the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved as such.
§ 3
Frank Laine, the restaurant's manager, read the accounts from the previous meeting which were as follows:
August revenues 5599.90 August 1 cash 2401.55 Total 8001.45
Expenses Miscellaneous goods 2397.78 Meat 1127.92 Milk 851.07 Candy and soft drinks 355.85 Wages 422.25 Fuel 47.50 Rent 100.00 Miscellaneous 22.09 August 31 till 2676.99
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 117.50 Meals paid in advance 259.00 Loan debt 15.00 Assets 2768.24 Total 3254.99
75
The aforementioned accounts were approved on the basis of the auditor's statement.
§ 4
The following were selected to the Board of Directors to replace those whose terms have ended or have left the community: Matti Koski, Urho Räiviö, and Nick Lepistö.
§ 5
Frank Laine reported that the servers have requested a $5.00 wage increase per month. It was decided to increase the servers' and manager's wages by $5.00, which will come into effect on the first of this month.
§ 6
The manager informed us that the cook has resigned, but the Board of Directors has chosen Mrs. Hill as a replacement. The assembly approved the Board of Directors' action.
§ 7
F. Laine explained the Board of Directors' activity on the issue of fixing the kitchen drain. The assembly supported the Board of Directors, and in addition these drains should be fixed as soon as possible, and that the co-operative restaurant has the right to pay these costs to the hall, but the costs will be recouped in the payment of rent to the hall.
§ 8
The meeting was informed that Emil Krupek wants to pay $10.00 per month for food waste. It was decided to give these to him for this price on the condition that he clean the garbage from the backyard and empties the cans.
§ 9
The manager was accused of allowing server staff to sign the cook's name on cheques when the signing should only be done by the cooks. The issue gave rise to a lively discussion and two individuals were chosen to review these cheques to see if errors had occurred as a result of those that had signed. Suomela and Joonas Seppälä were selected.
§ 10
The manager F. Laine reported that two servers had resigned. This was discussed but no firm decision was reached.
76
§ 11
The meeting was adjourned amid a general mishmash.
On behalf of the meeting, Kusti Lampi
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly October 5, 1919.
§ 1
Matti Koski opened the meeting and was chosen as chairman. The undersigned served as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the previous meeting were read with the notice that the manager's name was spelled incorrectly.
§ 3
Frank Kasperi, the restaurant's manager, read the accounts statement for the previous month which was approved on the basis of the auditor's statement.
Account statement
September revenues 5595.14 September 1 cash 2676.99 Total 7972.13
Expenses Miscellaneous goods 2790.00 Meat 980.39 Milk 676.00 Tobacco, soft drinks, and sweets 178.67 Wages 451.45 Loans 5.00 Rent 100.00 Miscellaneous 45.15 September 30 till 2745.47 Total 7972.13
77
Assets
Food stuffs and fuel 603.40 September 30 cash 2745.47 Furniture 105.00 Total 3453.87
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 115.35 Unpaid bills 92.00 Meals paid in advance 279.00 Loan debt 10.00 Assets 2957.52 Total 3253.87
§ 4
During the previous meeting, a payment signature forgery was discussed. The issue was discussed at the meeting, and based on the statement by the selected reviewers, the signatures were forged on several purchases. The manager was told to handle the signatures better, which he promised to do. It was also decided to keep the restaurant's by-laws in effect.
§ 5
The waste drain issue from the last meeting was discussed. The manager reported that the work has begun but has not yet removed the grease. This was approved as such.
§ 6
Emil Niska and Heikki Rouvinen replaced those that had left the Board of Directors. The outgoing auditor John Wäre was replaced by Lockhead and Matti Ramppainen.
§ 7
The manager reported that the licence for the legal sale of soft drinks and tobacco has not be submitted. With respect to this, Lockhead was chosen to take out a licence in his own name as well as in the name of the Hoito co-operative restaurant.
§ 8
The manager reported that the costs for the wood room for the co-operative restaurant totalled $3.30 and to pay Matti Koski $3.00 in wages for installing the door, which was approved unanimously.
78
§ 9
The manager asked the assembly if weekly ticket diners should be given milk with their eggs. It was decided not to give milk unless eggs are charged separately.
§ 10
A proposal was made to assist the staff who are currently in the hospital, Hilja Klint and Olga Hietala. Two different proposals were made regarding Hilja Klint's fees. First, that $35.00 is paid to the doctor. Second, that the entire $50.50 for doctor and hospital fees are to be paid. It was decided by a vote of 8 to 4 to pay $35.00. The fees for Olga Hietala were left for the time being, but the manager Frank Kasper was instructed to visit the hospital and to ensure that she is receiving proper care and a peaceful room.
§ 11
It was reported that cashier duties have been handled carelessly in the mornings and diners have eaten without paying since there has been nobody at the till. It was decided to purchase a clock which can be used when there is nobody at the till and the assembly instructed the manager to come in the morning once or twice a week to look after it.
§ 12
Complaints that the food has worsened were brought forward and it was decided that the food is to be improved not worsened.
§ 13
The manager informed the assembly that we have been taxed $800 and asked if there is an room to haggle, but it was decided not to do so.
§ 14
The meeting was adjourned without a final ceremony.
On behalf of the meeting, Emeli Niskanen
Minutes from the Hoito co-operative restaurant extraordinary meeting, October 10, 1919
§ 1
L. Wiitasaari opened the meeting and was also chosen as chairman with the undersigned as recording secretary.
79
§ 2
The assembly proposed selecting a temporary manager to replace the previous one who has left the community. The Hoito co-operative restaurant Board of Directors proposed Samuel Holm, which after a lively discussion was approved, and required to provide a $300 bond in cash to be deposited in the bank.
§ 3
It was decided to advertise the manager position opening in the Canada in the Vapaus and in America in Industrialisti. Those eligible for the position must know English and bookkeeping. It was decided to maintain the requirement of a $300 bond. The opening will close on October 31.
§ 4
The assembly unanimously decided to give a $500 loan from the restaurant's treasury to support our jailed comrades and that a 5 man committee formed to secure the services of a lawyer. Matti Aalto, H. Rouvinen, Joonas Aho, Samuel Holm, and the undersigned were selected to the committee.
§ 5
H. Rouvinen and S. Holm were chosen to go meet with F. Moore in West Fort William in the hopes that with his help we can secure a Winnipeg lawyer to assist those that have been jailed.
§ 6
Meeting adjourned.
E. Wiskanen Recording secretary
Minutes from the Hoito co-operative restaurant extraordinary meeting October 12, 1919
§ 1
The meeting was opened by Wiitasaari who was also chosen as the chairman. The undersigned served as recording secretary.
§ 2
Samuel Holm, the temporary manager chosen at the last meeting, informed us that he is unable to take the position for personal reasons. Karl Ahlbom was chosen in his place and will require a $300 bond.
80
§ 3
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, E. Niskanen
Minutes of the Hoito co-operative restaurant November 2, 1919
§ 1
The meeting was opened by H. Rouvinen. J. Lehtimäki was chosen as the chairman for the meeting and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the 3 previous meetings were read and approved.
§ 3
Kalr Ahlbom, the restaurant's manager, presented the account statement for the previous month which was approved on the basis of the auditor's statement.
Account Statement
October revenues 5442.32 October 1 cash 2744.09 Total 8186.41
Expenses Milk 850.80 Miscellaneous goods 2987.10 Meat and Fish 947.29 Tobacco and soft drinks 291.80 Wages 485.10 Loans 505.00 Heat and Rent 318.00 Miscellaneous 131.55 October 30 till 1669.27 Total 8186.41
81
Assets
Stock, loans, food stuffs, fuel, tobacco, and soft drink inventory in the stockroom 614.40.
Furniture 124.00 Rent paid in advance 200.00 Defence loans 500.00 Savings account 1000.00 Cash flow 1067.88 Change in the till 30.00 October 1 revenue 193.48 Total 3729.76
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 97.59 Meals paid in advance 252.00 Unpaid bills 303.49 Loan debt 5.00 Externally purchased goods 622.79 Assets 2448.89 Total 3729.76
§ 4
J. Wäre, Väinö Perna, O. Suomela, Albin Mäki, and Emil Sundell replaced those whose turn it was to leave the Board of Directors.
§ 5
The activity of the manager was discussed. The Board of Directors reported that there have not been any applicants but presented the applications of Karl Ahlbom and Emil Sundell for the temporary position. Karl Ahlbom was approved again for the temporary position.
§ 6
The support of Olga Hietala during her illness was discussed but was left for the next meeting as there was no need to make a decision.
§ 7
Wiitasaari informed the assembly that the Board of Directors has made a unilateral decision to hire an additional cook's helper, because of a request from the kitchen workers, with the promise to pay them more money when they work until two. The assembly approved the decision of the Board of Directors.
82
§ 8
Taavitti Miettinen offered the assembly help in peeling potatoes for payment in food, but the the food wages worker was not approved.
§ 9
The assembly was informed that it has been noticed that we have had visitors at night who have distributed food stuffs. The manager has placed better locks on the basement doors for the time being.
§ 10
The restaurant's losses were discussed. It was decided to increase weekly tickets from $7.00 to $8.00.
§ 11
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, E. Wiskanen Recording secretary
Minutes of the Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly December 7, 1919
§ 1
The meeting was opened by John Sato who was also chosen as the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read with the notification that the recording secretary had only mentioned the hiring of one helper for the kitchen rather than two.
§ 3
The restaurant's manager Ahlbom presented the monthly account statement which was approved on the basis of the auditor's statement.
83
Revenue
November revenues 5051.44 November 1 cash 1669.27 Total $6720.71
Expenses Miscellaneous goods 2509.50 Meat and Fish 1087.65 Milk 780.00 Tobacco and soft drinks 241.08 Wages 514.15 Heat and Rent 302.85 Miscellaneous 55.85 November 30 till 1229.57 Total 6720.71
Assets
Goods in the stockroom according to the inventory 944.60 Furniture 126.00 Rent paid in advance 100.00 Defence loans 500.00 Savings account 1000.00 Cash flow 667.07 November 29 and 30 revenue 296.05 Change in the till 30.00 Total 3663.72
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 126.70 Unpaid bills 126.70 Meals paid in advance 188.00 Loan debt 5.00 Externally purchased goods 709.50 Assets 2507.82 Total 3663.72
84
§ 4
The issue of Olga Hietala's illness assistance that was left on the table at the previous meeting was moved to the next meeting.
§ 5
Mäkinen reported to the meeting that some milk distributor sells milk to the Marriaggi Hotel for 40 cents a gallon. The meeting instructed the manager to investigate the matter.
§ 6
Meals times were discussed but it was mentioned that these have already been decided to maintain as they are. Lunch 12-1:30 and dinner 6-7:30.
§ 7
The Board of Directors reported complaints that the food has worsened. After a many-sided discussion we came to the decision that we cannot please everyone's tastes but will try to get more varied food.
§ 8
Closing the restaurant on Saturdays at 9 in the evening was proposed at the Board of Directors meeting. There were two differing opinions. The result was 9-6 that the restaurant will be open until 10:30 every evening.
§ 9
The purchase of a dictionary for the restaurant was discussed and it was unanimously decided to purchase one and that it will be the manager's responsibility to purchase it.
§ 10
The Board of Directors proposal to the general assembly on eating a bird on Christmas was left to the Board of Directors to decide.
§ 11
The purchase of free bonds for the workers using the co-operative restaurant's funds was discussed, and it was decided to purchase one of every price, so $8.00 worth.
§ 12
Niskanen's proposal was discussed, that the co-operative restaurant's defence committee be filled to replace those that have left. J. Sato, E. Sjön, and Huugo Johnson were selected.
85
§ 13
Meeting adjourned.
In witness whereof, E. Niskanen Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the “poikatalo” Hoito general assembly December 17, 1919.
§ 1
E. Niskanen was chosen as the chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The reason for calling this meeting was that the Board of Directors had noticed that the restaurant had generated a $240.96 loss in the first half of this month. After a long discussion we came to the unanimous decision to get the revenues to match the expenses. Raw fruit was left out for the time being and free coffee will not be given to weekly ticket diners.
§ 3
We also discussed the loss of staff. The issue was left as is for now.
§ 4
S. Holm proposed that we don't place bourgeois newspapers so prominently on the tables and till so that workers' newspapers will have space. It was decided that workers' newspapers will have the priority space from here on in.
§ 5
K. Rajala proposed that we make this restaurant exclusively a unionist's dining place. No decision was made.
§ 6
K. Rajala asked if the staff are already all union members and, if they are not, then would it be necessary to force them to join? It was decided that for the time being we will not be using any coercive measures.
86
§ 7
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, J. Wäre
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Hoito restaurant general assembly December 27, 1919
Jalmar Saari opened the meeting, Frank Kasper was chosen as chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 1
The assembly demanded and the manager supported the decision to select a five person committee to investigate why the “poikatalo” is still generating losses.
§ 2
The following were chosen to the committee: Matti Aalto, Kalle Laiho, Frank Kasper, Kalle Laine, Alex Sipilä, and two alternates, Martti Korpi and Olli Kolehmainen.
§ 3
The task of the committee is to review all of the business of the restaurant and to find out why the “poikatalo” is generating losses.
§ 4
The “poikatalo” manager made a wage increase demand, from $75 to $150, for the reason that he has had to use his own money when the cash register has been short.
§ 5
It was decided to advertise the “poikatalo” manager position as open because the assembly did not approve the manager's wage demand.
§ 6
The manager requested and the assembly approved that his resignation take effect on January 15, 1920.
§ 7
It was decided to advertise the manager's position opening three times in the Vapaus newspaper. 87
§ 8
The manager may make the wage demand himself.
§ 9
The application period will remain open until January 10 and the new manager will be chosen at a meeting on the same day.
§ 10
A proposal to adjourn the meeting was accepted.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine
Minutes from the Port Arthur “poikatalo” Hoito restaurant general assembly January 4, 1920.
The meeting was opened by Henry Rouvinen, Johan Sato was chosen as chairman, and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 1
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved with the addition to Section 4 that K. Ahlbom's wage increase demand did not result from the register being short but also that his current wage is too small, and that it does not match current wages when compared to current conditions.
§ 2
The committee that investigated the “poikatalo's” rumoured fall have provided an explanation that any losses that have been incurred have come from natural reasons.
§ 3
The December account statement was read and approved with the auditor's statement and the auditor was granted freedom of responsibility.
§ 4
It was decided to keep the “poikatalo” food prices the same for the time being.
§ 5
It was Emel Niskanen and Henry Rouvinen's turn to leave the Board of Directors, and they 88 were replaced by Wille Huumanen and Otto Sjöblom.
§ 6
The auditor Ramppainen was replaced by Henry Rouvinen.
§ 7
The assembly decided to pay Mrs. Heitala's doctor's fees. $55 will be paid to Dr. J. Jakens but the assembly declined to pay for her hospital fees.
§ 8
It was decided to order the Vapaus newspaper to the “poikatalo” dining room.
§ 9
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Kalle Laine
Minutes from the extraordinary meeting January 11, 1920
§ 1
John Wäre was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The chairman explained that this meeting has been called primarily to choose a manager for the restaurant.
§ 3
Two individuals submitted written applications for this position: Frank Kasper from Nipigon, $85.00 per month and free food and S. Yli-Sipola from Toronto, $90 per month, free food, and an apartment. Frank Kasper was unanimously chosen as the manager since he is already known here, as opposed to the other candidate who is not as well-known and is demanding a higher wage. The responsibility of informing Frank Kasper that he has been chosen for this position was left to the Board of Directors.
§ 4
A fundraising letter arrived from the Work People's College Support Ring in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario in support of jailed comrades John Palokangas and Oscar Pelto. It was decided to take this letter into account and a three person committee was chosen to handle the 89 collection. The following were chosen to this committee: Kalle Laiho, Martti Pirinen, and Sjön.
§ 5
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Kusti Lampi
Minutes of the Hoito co-operative restaurant general assembly February 8, 1920
§ 1
John Sato was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The manager Frank Kasper reported that $43.98 had been collected for the fundraising request from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and this was sent to the assigned location.
§ 3
The account statement for January was read, which is as follows:
Revenue from January 1 to 15
January 1 to the evening of the 15 revenues $1822.80 January 1 cash 1398.69 Total 3221.49
Expenses Miscellaneous goods $599.15 Meat and Fish 322.09 Milk 202.25 Tobacco and soft drinks 91.15 Wages, heat, and rent 53.75 Miscellaneous 77.40 January 15 till 1875.70 Total 3221.49
90
Assets and debts
Assets
Goods in the stockroom according to the inventory 775.40 Furniture 138.00 Defence committee loans 150.00 January 15 cash 1875.70 2939.10
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 324.83 Unpaid bills 191.32 Meals paid in advance 62.85 Rent due 48.35 Loans 5.00 Assets 2306.75 2939.10
January 16 – 31
January 16-31 1993.40 January 16 cash 1875.70 Total 3869.10
Expenses Miscellaneous goods 1019.42 Meat 451.90 Milk 284.25 Tobacco and sweets 132.40 Wages 435.50 Rent and fuel 138.00 Miscellaneous 9.15 January 31 cash 1398.48 3869.10
91
Assets and debts
Assets
Food and fuel in the stockroom according to the inventory 777.15 Furniture 125.00 Defence committee loans 50.00 January 31 cash 1398.48 2380.63
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 125.95 Meals paid in advance 39.00 Unpaid bills 68.40 Assets 2147.28 2380.63
§ 4
O. Sjöblom, O. Suomela, J. Wäre, K. Ahlbom, E. Sjön, J. Sato, and E. Hämäläinen were chosen to replace those whose turn it was to leave the Board of Directors.
§ 5
H. Rouvinen, K. Nyman, and F. Anttila were chosen as auditors.
§ 6
The price of meals was discussed and it was decided to raise them as follows, effective February 9. Breakfast 40 cents and dinner 50 cents for men, 40 cents for women, 25 cents for children, and the lowest price for lunch is 35 cents.
§ 7
A decision on obtaining a business license was left for the Board of Directors.
§ 8
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, Edward Sjön
92
Minutes drafted for the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant general assembly March 7, 1920
§ 1
John Sato was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
§ 3
Frank Kasper read the February account statement which is as follows.
Revenue
February revenue 3585.17 February 1 cash 1398.48 $4983.65
Expenses Miscellaneous goods $1801.92 Meat 560.84 Milk 306.00 Tobacco and sweets 155.18 Wages 499.55 Fuel 28.25 Miscellaneous 49.59 February 29 cash 1582.32 $4983.65
Assets and debts
Assets
Inventory $781.45 Furniture 145.00 Defence committee loans 50.00 Change in the till 30.00 February 29 cash 1582.32 $2588.77
93
Liabilities
Unpaid wages 120.95 Meals paid in advance 59.00 Unpaid bills 186.00 February rent 100.00 Assets 2122.82 $2588.77
Assets January 31 2147.28 Assets February 29 2122.82 February losses 24.46
§ 4
Emel Engström was chosen to replace Ahlbom on the Board of Directors.
§ 5
Purchasing new glasses and coffee cups was discussed. It was decided to purchase new ones to replace the worst ones.
§ 6
Frank Kasper reported that he has sent the collection money.
§ 7
It was decided to order a subscription to Industrialisti for the co-operative restaurant, as well as six month subscriptions to Viesti from Sweden and Savon Kansa from Finland.41
§ 8
Improvements to the dinner pails were discussed. It was decided that everyone can order what they want in the pail.
41 Viesti (Message) was a Finnish-language left-wing newspaper published in Stockholm, Sweden that appeared at various times bi-weekly, weekly, a monthly between 1918 and 1920. The political views of Viesti became increasingly close to the international Communist movement after the founding of the Communist Party of Finland in exile in August 1918. Savon Kansa (The People of Savo) was a Finnish-language newspaper published in Kuopio, Finland that appeared as at various times as a three-times and six-times weekly between 1918 and 1920, and changed names several times during this period. The Savon Kansa newspaper was originally the organ of the left-wing opposition inside the Social Democratic Party of Finland and later the newspaper of the Socialist Workers Party of Finland. 94
§ 9
Meeting adjourned.
Antsu Broks
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant meeting in Port Arthur April 1, 1920.
§ 1
Tahlgren was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved.
§ 3
Frank Kasper read the revenues statement for March which was as follows:
Revenue and Expenses
Revenue March Revenue $4,874.90 Cash March 1st $1582.32 Total 6,457.22
Expenses general goods $2,536.94 meat $794.22 milk $689.50 tobacco and sweets $170.25 wages $528.70 rent $400.00 fuel $117.40 miscellaneous $53.45 Cash March 31 $1166.06 6,457.22
Assets and Liabilities
Assets
Food stuff and fuel stocks $995.60 as per the inventory Equipment 40.00 Rent, two months in advance 200.00 95
Petty cash in the cash register 30.00 Cash March 31 1,166.06 2,531.66
Food payments in advance 92.00 Unpaid bills 135.20 Unpaid wages 125.95 Assets 2178.51 2531.66
Assets February 29 2,122.82 Assets March 31 2,178.51 March profit 55.69
§ 4
Olli Kolehmainen took the place of Otto Sjöblum on the Board of Directors and Alex Wiskari in place of Hämäläinen
§ 5
A 5-member working group was selected for auditing, which includes Urho Räiviö, H. Johnson, and Frank Anttila.
§ 6
The serving staff called for a 5 dollar wage increase, which was increased for everyone except for the manager and the head cook, beginning April 1.
§ 7
The manager will provide a full explanation and notifications for those individuals who tend to their spouse while at work, and the rules will be posted on the walls of the “poikatalo.”
§ 8
Obtaining salt fish was left to the manager, when it is obtainable.
§ 9
It was decided to a young men's evening social on behalf of the “poikatalo.” A 5-member committee was selected which includes the following individuals: J. Sato, Frank Kasper, Urho Räiviö, Alex Sipilä, and Matti Koski.
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§ 10
Meeting adjourned.
Alex Sipilä Recording secretary
Minutes drafted at the Port Arthur co-operative restaurant meeting in Port Arthur May 2, 1920.
§ 1
J. Lehtimäki was chosen as chairman and the undersigned as recording secretary.
§ 2
We read the minutes of the previous meeting which were approved.
§ 3
Frank Kasper read the April account statement which was approved.
§ 4
The term for the following members of the Board of Directors has ended: G. Saimi, J. Wäre, and J. Sato. The following were chosen as their replacements: K. Laine, J. Unssi and T. Hill. Wiskari reported that he will also vacate his position and M. Paavola was chosen.
§ 5
J. Wäre was chosen to replace Urho Räiviö as auditor.
§ 6
Comrade J. Sato reported to the meeting that the Board of Directors has given a $400 loan to the One Big Union Finnish Support Circle for which the Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring repayment, which was also approved.
§ 7
Comrade J. Sato asked the meeting if it would be necessary to purchase the old furniture of the “poikatalo.” Several statements were made. It was decided to move this decision for the consideration of the Board of Directors.
§ 8
Comrade J. Sato proposed to the meeting that the aforementioned evening social be held 97 next Saturday the 8th and that the funds go to support the One Big Union Finnish Support Circle, this evening social being carried out by the bachelors of the “poikatalo.” This was approved and it was decided to charge 40 cents for admission.
§ 9
Comrade S. Holm asked the meeting if the aforementioned evening social should be advertised in the Vapaus newspaper. Several statements were made, and a vote taken in which 2 votes were for the advertisement and 17 against. It was decided against advertising in any newspaper in order to save funds.
§ 10
Comrade Frank Kasper read the Hoito co-operative restaurant account statement for April.
Revenues and Expenses
April revenues 5931.45 April 1 Cash 1166.06 7097.51
Expenses general goods 2494.67 meat 979.33 milk 728.50 tobacco and soft 945.83 drinks wages 596.35 miscellaneous 437.62 April 30 cash 1615.21 7097.51
Assets and Liabilities Food stuff and fuel stocks 766.55 as per the inventory Equipment 135 1 month rent paid in advance 100 Loan to the One Big Union 400 Finnish Support Circle Petty cash in the cash register 30 Cash April 30 1615.21 3046.76
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Liabilities Unpaid wages 129.50 Unpaid bills 267.95 Food payments in advance 82 Pure assets 2567.31 3046.76
Assets April 30 2567.31 Assets March 31 2178.51 April profit 388.80
§ 11
Since the restaurant has generated profit it was discussed whether prices should be lowered, or the food improved. It was decided to keep the prices unchanged and for the manager to take care of food improvements.
§ 12
Meeting adjourned.
On behalf of the meeting, J. Saari
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