The company aims to capture a large share of the market with cheap ticket prices, says Taskila, who took over the running of the airline last June. See page 17.
Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen hosted a small gathering of economic officials in northern Finland over the past weekend. Last year 1.8 billion people around the world participated in it as a way of demonstrating their concerns about climate change. Generally, newborn animals are unnaturally separated from their mothers, given little room to move, fed in such a way that guarantees low overheads rather than animals that are healthy and capable of functioning normally, allowed limited or no time outdoors (depending of the type of animal), and slaughtered after a short time unless they can be used for laying eggs or providing milk. "The attraction of Earth Hour lies in how it connects people. CORD HEL SINK I T IME S
FINNISH
Bringing people together Although the past years have seen greater internationalisation in Finland, it is still easy to feel left out. Although it can be argued that Finnish farms compare favourably to those in other countries, an animal's life on an average farm
Mikonkatu 5, Helsinki, Tel. Secretary General Angel Gurria said that Europe needed "the mother of all firewalls" in order to combat possible contagion in the on-going sovereign debt crisis. (09) 628 825. See page 19.
ALL AN BAIN HEL SINKI TIMES
ASK ANYONE
on the street what a vegetarian eats and the majority of people will have a fair idea. According to the airline's chief executive Tero Taskila, the company will begin with three flights a day between the two capitals, which over the course of the next two years will be increased to six a day. ISSUE 13 (244) · 29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012 · 3 · W W W.HEL SINKITIMES.FI
DOMESTIC
Katainen ridiculed by Nobel Prize winner
DAV ID J. On the agenda is a continued push for austerity as well as increasing the bailout fund. Because it falls on a weekend this year, the participation of schools, office buildings, and the like will be smaller than in previous years.
L E H T I K U VA / H E I K K I S A U K KO M A A
Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen.
would only back an increase to 700 million. See page 4.
LIFESTYLE
Ride the rabbit Check out HT's new weekly series Finnish Idioms that explain word by word the thinking behind well-known Finnish phrases. Ask someone what a vegan is and you're far more likely to elicit a look of confusion which may turn to disbelieve once the person is told what a vegan refuses to eat. Since the first Earth Hour was held in spring 2007, the event has become
will resume flights between Helsinki and Tallinn. Welcome Weeks aims to engage some 100,000 foreigners living in the Greater Helsinki area this autumn. Currently Finland's commitment to the European Stability Mechanism is over 12.5 billion euros.
CULTURE
UN blacks out for Earth Hour
HEL SINKI TIMES
Estonian Air resumes Helsinki-Tallinn flights
ST T / HT
ESTONIAN AIR has announced that it
Girls on film Artisokka Film Festival, held this weekend, focuses on women on screen as directors, filmmakers and actresses. Paul Krugman, the winner of the 2008 Nobel Prize in Economics and proponent of fiscal stimulus policies, quickly lambasted Katainen and posted statistics on his New York Times blog proving the Finn wrong. See page 18.
EAT & DRINK
"WE WILL turn off the lights in all UN buildings for Earth Hour. Earth Hour, which takes place this year on Saturday 31 March, is a worldwide initiative to increase awareness of the causes and consequences of climate change. "What do they eat,
then?" is the all-too-common unimaginative retort. The OECD urged the eurozone nations to double the bailout fund's lending capacity from 500 billion euros to 1 trillion. He showed that Latvia's economy remained some 16 per cent below pre-crisis levels, while Ire-
land's GDP had fallen about 11 per cent and barely improved. In Finland, lights will go off for Earth Hour in public buildings, including the Presidential Palace, and at important landmarks throughout the country. They may mistakenly say that some vegetarians eat fish, although that's forgivable when a surprising number
of self-professed vegetarians themselves add the completely illogical qualification "but I eat fish" to their description of their chosen diet. As positive examples of the theory, Katainen cited the experiences of Ireland and Latvia. It's wonderful that irrespective of geographical location and income level people can participate in a shared event. This year Earth Hour is bound to be most popular in Asia, where many people are suffering because of poor electricity distribution, but still want to take part," says the head of the Finnish branch of the World Wildlife Find, Liisa Rohweder. Finnish Finance Minister Jutta Urpilainen said she was prepared to increase the bailout fund slightly. here is a miserable one. Two-fifths of respondents to the survey said they would now be highly reluctant to fly with Finnair, and a further fifth said they were somewhat reluctant to fly with the trouble-riddled Finnish company. As for the question of why people make these choices, the conventional answer is animal welfare and/or animal rights. By doing so we want to show our commitment to the goal of developing sustainably produced energy for all the world," UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced earlier this week. German Chancellor Angela Merkel demurred at swelling the fund to such an extent, saying that she one of the world's most widespread environment-themed happenings. Some of the participants used the occasion to continue demands for countries to cut spending. According to a survey carried out by Finnish commercial television channel MTV3, the ongoing scandals involving Finnair have made many fliers want to take their business elsewhere. "Remarkably, the claim that Ireland was recovering seems to have settled into the consciousness of Europe's `Very Serious People'," Krugman wrote. Katainen advocated "growsterity," the idea that growth can come from austerity measures. "Our goal is to get passenger levels on the route up to 100,000 a year, compared to 67,800
last year. The assembly of Katainen and his peers in Saariselkä was seen as a pre-meeting for the more important gathering of eurozone finance ministers on Friday 30 March. She said that a 940 billion euro
fund had been proposed, but that it would be "difficult" for Finland to almost double its commitments. The projected figure for this year is around 85,000." Estonian Air has already opened up routes between Tallinn and Jyväskylä and Tallinn and Joensuu, and next week will begin flights to and from Kajaani. Read more on page 3.
More to veganism than just animal rights
Gourmet falafel Opened in December last year, the self-proclaimed gourmet fast food outlet Fafa's has quickly risen to prominence on the local restaurant scene. But don't despair as help is at hand. Although it is a popular concept among European leaders today, it has few adherents among traditional economists. This is music to the ears of competitors, including Estonian Air. The International Monetary Fund and G20 finance ministers have made similar pleas
Oberg highlights failure to learn the language as evidence of stage two. This is the same inconsistency seen in Kurikka, who condemns Lutherans while preaching that all religions are equal. The opinions expressed in this section are the writers' own and do not represent the official policy of the Helsinki Times.
Dr. August threw himself into the flames, picked up the girls, and had almost escaped when the floor collapsed. A former colleague of his recalled to me that Oberg was "a very approachable person" and "very sensitive to my needs". Upon arriving in Nanaimo he flipped between this and Oberg, a rough Swedish translation of his surname, but his son was registered as Kalervo Wuorinen when he was born. The lumber operation didn't make enough money quickly enough, which plunged the island into debt, leading to food shortages and accusations of corruption. If you are still in culture shock after many years, the model is not wrong. In fact, there is a great deal of empirical evidence, especially based on research with international students, to back up Oberg's first two stages at least. The editor of Työmies, one of Finland's biggest newspapers (avidly read by Finns in Nanaimo), he denounced capitalism, and even marriage as "a capitalist license to rape". Oberg wrote his 1928 graduating essay, at the University of British Columbia, on Sointula and why it failed (without any reference to the fact
we should not criticise Oberg too harshly. It is a littleknown part of Oberg's life and it may well partly explain why he was the one to the develop culture shock and develop it as he did.
EVEN before Oberg was born, in January 1901, his father August, who had left Finland for Canada in 1888, was busy planning the commune, of which he was to be treasurer. Oberg defends all this. So, you are either mad or you accept this idea. 2
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
VIEWPOINT
HELSINKI TIMES
Viewpoints are commentaries written by experts and authorities about specific topics. Committed to a mental hospital, the hospital's records show that Hilma spoke almost no English despite having been in Canada since 1895. Finns had been arriving in Nanaimo, British Columbia, since the 1880s. For Oberg, all cultures (seemingly including dictatorial regimes) are equal because different cultures are "just another way of living". Indeed, when Oberg's brother died aged 21 in 1923, Oberg's mother slowly lost her sanity, completely breaking down when she visited her remaining son in Chicago in 1932. But it seems that it may also have given it culture shock.. But worst of all, Sointula suffered a catastrophic fire in 1903 that killed eleven people, eight of them children.
THE CHILDREN slept communally, their parents in another building, another of Kurikka's increasingly resented ideas. Sointula was Stage Two on a grand scale. BUT OTHER parts of the model seem to come straight from the mind of Matti Kurikka. Accordingly, it's unsurprising that the empirical research indicates that expatriates never reach what Oberg calls "complete adjustment" even if they experience "reverse culture shock" when they return home after a long time abroad.
Western behaviour is solely the product of history and culture. For Oberg, culture shock is a mental illness that can be cured only when you accept that the new culture is "just another way of living". It collapsed within a year, partly due to widespread alcoholism, but it was then that August Oberg and his fellow miners paid for Kurikka to come to Canada and lead them.
THE GOVERNMENT leased them Malcolm Island on condition that the children would be educated in English. Helsinki Times reserves the right to accept or reject submissions, as well as to edit or shorten the text. The idea that you can change how you feel just by thinking something different also reflects Kurikka's belief in "mind over matter". Kurikka believed in "the supremacy of mind over matter". August had left Lammela, a farm in Merikarvia near Pori, to work in Nanaimo's coal mines, as had so many others. Since then, it has grown into a very influential idea. His book Culture Shock and Multiculturalism is published by Cambridge Scholars Publishing (2012). It was a remote, forest-
that he was there or that the August Oberg whom he interviewed was his own father!). The commune would be called Kalevan Kansa ("Folk of Kaleva"), a reference to Finland's national epic Kalevala, published in 1831 and a central part of the country's growing nationalist fervour.
Finnish Lutheran Church, railing in favour of a religious community based around love and equality. Not only was this commune the epitome of stage two of culture shock but Oberg strongly defended the commune's ideology and his cul-
imply that August Oberg was a rather mysterious man. It fell apart in 1904. But few realize that it was thought up by an academic who was raised in a Finnish national romantic commune on a wild Canadian island and that it actually keeps alive some of that commune's utopian ideology. Matti Kurikka (1863 1915) was a celebrity for Finns, at home and abroad. But for the Finns, this was how they would recreate their romantic understanding of the country that they had left behind. The recriminations were Sointula's death knell. They renamed the island Sointula ("Place of Harmony"). At some point in early adulthood, he changed his surname from Mikkola to Wuorinen (Vuori meaning "mountain"). Finland has given the world Nokia, the Moomins and the sauna. She couldn't to get back in to save her two daughters, aged four and five. THIS WAS the three-stage model of culture shock presented by Canadian-born anthropologist Kalervo Oberg (1901-73) and published in academic journal Practical Anthropology in 1960. It was all that was harmonious about Finland: the forests, the rivers, the closeness to nature and, of course, other Finnish "peasants", just like them. And putting aside the utopianism, culture shock seems to be an important social fact and it was Oberg who was the first to look at it in detail.
"Culture Shock" article seems to romanticise less developed cultures just as Kurikka romanticised certain kinds of religion. But you soon reject the new culture, exclusively befriend fellow foreigners (often to moan about the `natives') and irrationally romanticise your own culture. But Oberg sees Western and non-Western peoples as fundamentally different. You remain psychologically ill. They slipped from his grasp and perished. This is the second stage after which comes the breakthrough and the final stage. And by 1902, there were 200 Finns on the island, living communally and trying to fund themselves through fishing and lumber export.
THEY WERE not able to do so. There is a tragic (Finnish) `cult' behind culture shock. Kurikka believed that all religions were equal, yet he condemned Finnish Lutheranism. August eventually settled on Oberg. Oberg was raised, in his early years, in a Finnish nationalist, utopian commune with a charismatic, divinely-inspired leader. Oberg also condemns the stereotyping of "natives" but finds it acceptable to stereotype Western expatriates as being part of a "cocktail circuit". Edward Dutton is Docent in Anthropology at Oulu University. NonOBERG'S
SO, THE next time you feel a sense of culture shock in Finland don't forget that the anthropologist who gave the world "culture shock" may not have done so were it not for the influence on his childhood of a utopian, Finnish national romantic commune. The settlers really only had in common the fact that they were Finns vaguely yearning for something better. Articles should be at least 5,000 characters-with-spaces long (maximum length 10,000). In his graduating essay, Oberg passionately defends both Kurikka and his views. Oberg's mother, Hilma, managed to get into the burning building and rescue Kalervo and his baby brother. Kurikka believed that all personality differences were a product of culture, meaning we could successfully create a utopia. BUT MAYBE
Few realise that "Culture Shock" was thought up by an academic who was raised in a Finnish national romantic commune on a wild Canadian island and that it actually keeps alive some of that commune's utopian ideology.
Kalevan Kansa rejected the native culture and romanticised the homeland.
THE RECORDS
AND considering Oberg's extraordinary background, we can understand why culture shock should have fascinated him even more than other culture experts. People began to return to the mainland. Even British soccer players talk about undergoing culture shock when they transfer from one soccer team to another.
ture shock model reflected it in many ways. Exchange students and expatriate business people are told that they will experience culture shock, just as Oberg explains it. You just haven't had your breakthrough yet. You can submit your articles to viewpoint@helsinkitimes.fi. BUT KURIKKA'S ideas didn't die. Oberg even argues that if "Kurikka had succeeded in bringing Finn-
ish socialists to his own high level of thinking", Finland could have avoided its 1918 civil war between nationalists and socialists.
WE CAN understand a little more about why culture shock fascinated Oberg. But Western behaviour such as "ethnocentrism" and "stereotyping" is not explained away by Western history and culture. But his eccentricity was nothing compared to that of the commune's leader. He strongly criticised the Finnish authorities, advocating independence from Russia. Forced out of the country in 1899, Kurikka set up a Kalevan Kansa commune amongst Finns in Australia. In fact, the mysterious religion is more equal than the wellknown one.
AND OBERG'S model also seems to be unfalsifiable. You realise that the new culture is `just another way of living.' After that, it all makes sense and your culture shock evaporates. Oberg blames Westerners for their behaviour and suggests that they need to reject it, implying that they have the freedom to do so and are responsible for the nature of their "culture". Kurikka was a vehement critic of the
ed wilderness and there were wolves and bears to contend with. Many of them didn't agree with Kurikka's idiosyncratic religiosity, which included the belief that all religions are equal, that you can change the world just by thinking differently and that all children should be illegitimate while married couples shouldn't have sex. He has also written a book on Finnish culture: The Finnuit (Akademiai Kiado, 2009).
The Finnish cult behind culture shock
The concept of Culture Shock turns out to have a fascinating history, writes Edward Dutton.
THERE can't be many expatriates in Finland who haven't come across "Culture Shock". Culture shock can ultimately be traced back to that great cause of it: Finland! THE FIRST stage is that you begin with a `honeymoon phase' of naïve fascination. Oberg argues that culture shock is overcome not by gradually getting to understand the culture but by accepting an idea: "it's just another way of living", and all cultures are equal just as, for Kurikka, all religions were equal
"The environmental effect of transporting soya is very limited when you look at the whole lifecycle of soya. Water pollution and water misallocation, deforestation in general and overfishing are some other examples of environmental problems connected to the meat and dairy industry.
thing to tell people what to eat for non-health reasons. "If we had the criteria in place, it would be much easier for these places [public-sector kitchens] to serve food that's less harmful to the environment." Asked about what the reaction of the meat and dairy industry would be to the Ministry explicitly promoting a vegan diet on environmental grounds, Innanen doesn't
A demonstration targeting factory farming at the end of last year is a good example of the animal rights and environmental movements championing the same cause. At the same time, Innanen doesn't think it would be necessary, even correct, for her ministry to promote veganism. For example, there are no [special] taxes on meat," says Marja Innannen from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, which is in charge of matters pertaining to food in Finland. She also thinks it would be hard for the average person to be vegan but doesn't rule out the promotion of veganism alongside a public information campaign to inform people about the ecological benefits of eating one type of meat over another.
Combining veganism and environmentalism This newfound common goal of reducing meat and dairy consumption notwithstanding, the animal rights and environmental movements haven't always been at ease with one another. Moreover, as Innanen notes, meat eating can, given specific conditions, be as praiseworthy from an environmental point of view as veganism. Alongside several animal rights groups at the protest were representatives of environmental groups like Luonto-Liitto and Friends of the Earth Finland.
think there would be a problem, as eating more sustainably would "benefit us all," she says. For example, farmed animals are estimated to produce between 10 and 18 per cent of world's greenhouse gas emissions as a result of the large amount of fossil fuels factory farming requires and the methane produced by sheep, cattle and goats. Currently, the vast majority of soya is eaten by livestock," he outlines before adding that soya can be grown in certain parts of Europe, making it possible to eat "semi-local soya," as he puts it. But it depends on the vegan, it depends if you're a pragmatist or not. "We've never done a survey on the subject, but my hunch is that animal rights are the most important for our members and vegans in general,"
although he points out that he's wary of speaking on behalf of all vegans. Innanen is currently part of a team preparing a report on sustainability. In other words, a vegan eschews meat, milk, cheese, eggs, yoghurt and honey as well as any product that contains ingredients obtained from animals. Stranius says that he hasn't seen any problems arise with advocacy of veganism entering the environmental movement. It's better to get protein directly, for example from soya that's been transported here by a big ship from Brazil. However, it's quite a new
L E H T I K U VA / V I L L E M Y L LY N E N
justification for veganism has emerged in the form of environmental conservation and preservation of natural resources. Environmentalists argue that such rainforest degradation as well as the partly related subject of soil erosion could be prevented if humans didn't rely on animal protein for sustenance because of the inefficiency of using huge tracts of lands for the purpose of feeding animals food we could eat ourselves. Loss of biodiversity is another pressing issue to which cutting down rainforest contributes, due to areas of rainforest being home to the vast majority of the world's different species. This is largely due to the former concentrating on the right of individual animals to life while environmentalists are more interested in the health of entire eco-systems rather than the fate of one animal. This experience finds something of a mirror image in the animal rights movement. "New health recommendations are being developed this year and next and I really hope environmental issues will be taken into consideration when these are drawn up," she explains. He also mentions the broad bean as an example of a protein-rich foodstuff that can be grown in Finland. "Maybe I'd ask, `Why should we promote veganism?' when you can get good, environmentally friendly protein from animal sources like freshwater fish and game," she argues. Of course, there's the rainforest issue, so you have to buy soya that's certified [as not having required rainforest clearing]," he continues. Ultimately though, the reason for someone choosing a vegan diet probably matters less to the environmentalist or animal rights advocate than does the effect the choice has on ecological degradation and lessening animal suffering, both of which are far from being overcome.
What a vegan doesn't eat A vegan diet is one that doesn't include any products derived from animals. Conversely, he knows of many environmental organisations that actively promote veganism. Maybe it's more something we bring up in a discussion." Piiparinen goes on to emphasise this last point. So-called ethical vegans, as opposed to "dietary vegans", also object to the use of animal products for other purposes, such as for clothing, furniture and so on.
Soya is a popular replacement for meat and dairy.
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DOMESTIC NEWS
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
3
The truth not always so easy to swallow
Despite increasing awareness of the environmental consequences of eating an excessive amount of meat and dairy products, a meat-free, dairy-free diet is still unfathomable to most Finns.
ALL AN BAIN HEL SINKI TIMES L E H T I K U VA / A N T T I A I M O - KO I V I S T O
From page 1.
A MORE RECENT
Promoting veganism If the benefits of veganism for the environment are so obvious, what is the Finnish government doing to promote this type of diet. "We've known about the environmental effects of meat eating for a long time. In environmental terms, eating soya isn't such a big issue. Although this subject has been discussed in lots of countries, there are no fiscal tools at present for affecting it. Rainforest destruction, which reduces the planet's ability to absorb carbon dioxide, is also a problem that's intimately linked to the meat and dairy industry, since, along with logging, a large part of the reason for this destruction is the need to provide space for grazing and for growing crops to feed farm animals around the world. As part of this, the government wants to increase the amount of organic, vegetable-based and seasonal food used in public-sector kitchens, although, as Innanen points out, "these are only recommendations and we don't know how many kitchens actually follow them." Innanen says that her ministry has, in addition to this initiative, run many other campaigns promoting the eating of vegetables and financed other organisations to do the same to the tune of many millions of euros but laments the lack of government recommendations on how to eat sustainably. Nothing, quite frankly, at least not explicitly. 09 689 67422 Read more about Helsinki Times ready-to-use English lessons at www.helsinkitimes.fi/htep. Innanen and Taina Nikula at the Ministry of the Environment admit that neither of the ministries for which they work have an official policy on veganism, although both women point out that the Finnish government promotes sustainable development and has, for example, passed a resolution in 2009 on sustainable public procurement, with one of the five central areas being sustainable eating. Asked whether vegans driven by animal welfare and rights considerations think
that using environmental arguments to justify veganism draws too much attention away from the issues of animal mistreatment and exploitation, Niklas Piiparinen, who heads the board of Finland's vegan society Vegaaniliitto, has this to say: "I haven't experienced it like that, but I don't think that speaking about environmental reasons puts animal rights in the shadow," before adding that arguments for veganism based on environmental concern, "are easy to understand and to explain to people; they make veganism easy to market. Leo Stranius, the secretary general of the nature organisation Luonto-Liitto as well as a vegan, is less convinced.
"From an environmental perspective freshwater fish can be good choices, but if the average Finnish diet would really be based on eating them, meat consumption should be much more restricted. Hemp could be added to this list as well
Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen (NCP) thinks that the decisions made increase the country's credibility as well as strengthen the foundations of Finland's economy. An event partner could be a local football team, for example, perhaps one with many Finns who want international players to become involved, or a team predominantly made up of foreigners who'd like to see if Finns only show their sporting prowess on the ice hockey rink. · A new tax bracket will be created for those earning over 100,000 euros a year. · Private investors will be given a tax reduction when they invest in an unlisted growth company.
After winning a couple of gold medals at the Finnish Junior Championships, Lepistö's first full season at senior level in 2007/08 saw her win Finnish Senior gold, silver in the Nordic Championship and bronze at the Euros. Spring sees the planning phase of the project trying to find event partners and sponsors and getting the planning of events underway. "We strongly believe that cooperation in actively engaging internationals is the shortest way to make people welcome and feel at home," she says.
Ambition and drive Not lacking in ambition and drive, Welcome Weeks plans to try to engage about 100,000 foreigners residing in the Greater Helsinki Region this autumn. STT / HT
IN THE coming years, more tax will have to be paid on incomes, goods and services will become more expensive, savings will be made in education, and child benefit won't be increased. With these, social benefits will rise in the coming years as agreed. The point is bringing people together and showing the possibilities and opportunities of living in this region no plan is too small to be considered.. Whereas the six-party coalition announced that the aimed-for level of savings was 2.7 billion euros, the measures actually arrived at only 2.3 billion. "The planning period is followed by finalisation of plans during May and June, and in July and August the marketing campaign gets under way. Also, Child Home Care Allowance will remain unchanged. Whereas the sixparty coalition announced that the aimed-for level of savings was 2.7 billion euros, Minister of Finance Jutta Urpilainen (SDP) later explained that the measures actually arrived at only 2.3 billion. Taxes: · VAT will be raised by one percentage point. In making its decisions, the government used the traditional "cheese slicer" method: a little of everything was cut. The point of the project is to act as a facilitator for people who have a plan and are willing to follow it through. The existing lenient system for dealing with repeat driving offences has been widely criticised since early January of this year, when an eleven-year-old girl was run down and killed on a zebra crossing on Viikintie in Helsinki. Likewise, there are many Finns who crave interaction with the new arrivals, be they IT specialists, members of the refugee community or exchange students. "This tax solution is a compromise, but I can easily live with it because it guarantees that the majority of the new tax revenue will be generated by other means than flat tax rates," said Urpilainen. This is what the government decided last Thursday
L E H T I K U VA / S A R I GU S TA F S S O N
Minister of Finance Jutta Urpilainen (left) and Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen at a press conference held on 22 March where the outcome of the government's negotiations was announced.
L E H T I K U VA / J A R N O M E L A
during negotiations in which a framework for the government's incomings and outgoings for 2013 to 2016 was drawn up. The people out there have the connections and ideas we just help bring them together," says Rasmussen. Improving Helsinki's rail yards will affect the entire rail network in Finland. Social security won't be cut. For instance, new transportation projects, such as the upgrading of Helsinki's rail yards, were allocated money. Furthermore, increases in benefits tied to the cost of living index will be made. According to Katainen, indebtedness would've been headed off with measures adding up to 2.5 billion euros, but agreement on some additional adjustments was still possible before negotiations ended. The SDP and the Left Alliance think that compromises have to made during times of economic difficulty and that raising VAT was hard to avoid in the present economic climate. According to the minister, the aim is to get the changes implemented within the current electoral term, which ends in 2015. Unable to wear skates for more than 15 minutes at a time due to a nerve problem, on Sunday 25 March Lepistö sadly announced her retirement from competitive skating.
Parties forced to compromise As is generally the case in these sorts of negotiations, the final outcome was a compromise, meaning that some of the election promises made last year by each of the six governmental parties weren't kept. Tipped for World Championship gold, 2010/11 crushingly saw her miss several major competitions as well as the World Championships through injury. HRWW will aid the events with marketing, inclusion on the HRWW 2012 website, badges for all participants at your event, posters and other optional material and importantly assistance with first coordination and bringing together relevant actors," explains Rasmussen.
Those who are interested in participating should contact soeren.rasmussen@helsinki.fi www.welcomeweeks.fi
What a welcome is all about
DAV ID DUNNE HEL SINK I T IME S
THE PAST few years have seen
greater internationalisation in Finland, and the Greater Helsinki Region in particular has been at the coalface of this change in Finnish society. This is the second year the Welcome Weeks will run and the plan is to build on last year's success to make information and existing services more accessible.
At this month's launch the organisers have laid out their plans for this autumn's events, or to be more precise, have invited you to suggest your event to help internationals and locals become better acquainted. The following year saw a Finnish all-time best of bronze at the World Championships. `I'm in favour of a points system, and the aim is to get the matter underway as soon as possible,' Kyllönen told the paper. Urpilainen thinks that these decisions will help cement the idea that Finland is still a country which takes good care of its own economy.
Cut, increase, stimulate
Spending: · State equalisation payments will be taken away from municipalities, but one half will be replaced by increasing tax revenue. · Tax on large pensions will be raised to match income tax. Taxing goods and services one percentage point more will bring the state roughly 750 million euros, which accounts
Welcome Weeks' Project Coordinator Søren Berg Rasmussen explains how they aim to facilitate events under the Helsinki Region Welcome Weeks (HRWW) umbrella. Also, travel reimbursements will be cut, volun-
tary pension security will be weakened, health insurance reimbursements for private care will be lowered, property tax may rise, and transfer tax will be increased. State equalisation payments to municipalities will be reduced, making their economic situation more difficult. The Prime Minister, however, doesn't think that the cuts will cause any real problems for Finland's economic growth. Though some multinational corporations provide induction courses, and the various higher education facilities have their open weeks, it is still easy to feel left out in the cold unless you have a ready-made
network of friends. For example, the National Coalition (NCP) was forced to give up its goal of keeping income tax unchanged while the Social Democrats (SDP) were unable to prevent VAT being raised. · Child benefits won't be tied to the cost of living index in 2013-15. "Stabilising state finances by reducing indebtedness will be realised, and economic structures will be strengthened," Katainen said. · For industry, a double possibility to depreciate until the end of 2014. Prior to the negotiations, it was reported that the allowance's scope would be reduced.
ducing international talent and local employers. Urpilainen explained the 400 million shortfall to journalists on Tuesday by saying that the 2.7 billion goal was a `political decision done in the context of the spending negotiations.' The precision amount of savings agreed upon in the negotiations will be announced on 4 April, the minister promised. "We need proposals for events, people to help out with one of the featured events or just to help us market HRWW 2012 through your networks. Annika Forsander, who is Director of Immigration Affairs for the City of Helsinki, explains the aim and thinking behind the project. Spending cuts had to be made because the government's programme, which was worked out during postelection negotiations last year, stated that the growth of Finland's indebtedness had to be halted. After missing two seasons to recover she was part of the Finnish team which controversially travelled to North Korea in February this year for an event that was used by the Koreans to honour the late Kim Jong-il. · Health insurance reimbursements for private care will be lowered. The driver, who fled the scene, was later found to have been drunk at the time,
Government agrees on tax and savings programme
Tax increases and savings totalling 2.3 billion euros lie ahead.
JOHANNA VESIK ALLIO S T T ALL AN BAIN HT
Urpilainen explains savings shortfall
On Tuesday, Minister of Finance Jutta Urpilainen (SDP) tried to put an end to the confusion that has arisen over the actual scale of the savings achieved in last week's negotiations on state spending cutbacks. 4
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
DOMESTIC NEWS
HELSINKI TIMES
COLUMN
and had six previous convictions for drunk driving. HT
Aamulehti: Points system may be introduced for driving offences
Minister of Transport Merja Kyllönen (Left Alliance) told the Aamulehti newspaper that a new points system will be introduced to monitor motorists convicted of drunk driving and other offences. Growth: · A tax break on the community tax for companies that support product development aimed at growth. Leader of the Greens Ville Niinistö said at a press conference that the negotiations were "an operation to rescue the welfare state."
Who: Laura Lepistö From: Espoo Famous for: Being a former European Championship-winning figure skater who retired last week
for about half the savings needed. Some of the featured events this year are City Welcome (Espoo 25 August and Helsinki 5 September), Find a flat, Mate! which aims to bring together international students and providers of accommodation, Hidden City Race, Learn the Local Lingo and Talent Factory intro-
Child Home Care Allowance remains unchanged At the same time, other areas saw an increase in state spending. With this in mind, the Cities of Espoo and Helsinki, the Uusimaa Regional Council and the Helsinki Education and Research Area (Hera), in partnership with Helsinki Times and Designer Helsinki, are running the Helsinki Region Welcome Weeks from 25 August to 16 September. · Tax on inheritance of over one million euros will be increased. In 2008/09 she won European gold, as well as three silvers and a bronze in major competitions. EU membership has brought, along with an increase in international trade, an influx of foreign professionals and those whose interests lie in the academic field
This would be in the best interests of one-parent families, stepfamilies, so-called "rainbow" families, immigrant families, and so on."
ers. In the worst cases staff members have received burns to their faces," according to the head of land use of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Harri Palo. HT
Savon Sanomat: New law on compulsory police measures to be amended
Savon Sanomat reported on Tuesday that the law regulating the methods of interrogation and compulsory measures that can be used by the police is already up for reform, only one year after being passed by Parliament. The problem has been known for years, but it is only now that decisive action is being taken to rectify the matter, according to the report. "There should be public discussion on what counts as good care and good parenting, as well as how the child's interests are defined. Paloniemi maintains however that placement with foster families would cost only about a quarter of the cost of institutional care. HT
TS: Most popular coffin model to be banned
Turun Sanomat reported on Tuesday that the model of coffin most frequently used in Finland is to be banned. Based on the materials analysed, Hiitola concludes that it is impossible to as-
sess whether decisions to take immigrant into care are made on false pretences, but it is clear, she says, that in some cases the administrative courts have failed to be even-handed in their treatment of immigrant families. The reason is that the synthetic fabric used in the coffins is highly inflammable, and has on many occasions posed a threat to crematorium staff and to premises. In many cases ageing forest owners are no longer able to tend the forests, and problems with the organisational structure of the timber industry has also contributed to many forest owners being unable to sell their wood. The Ministry of Justice has appointed a working group to consider how the legislation can be best modified. One of the regions where things are going best, she says, is Kotka, where over 70 per cent of those in need of foster care are placed with families. The law, which will come into force only from
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Minister of Defence Stefan Wallin (SFP) is facing criticism over the preservation of the Swedish-language Dragsvik garrison. Things are worst, in her view, in small municipalities, where it is fairly common for all needy children and youth to be placed in institutions due to lack of willing foster families in the area. In analysing hundreds of administrative court documents concerning foster compulsory foster care decisions involving immigrant families, Hiitola came to the view that successful parenting was invariably defined and judged according to the standard of the "average", typically middle-class, heterosexual nuclear family. The trend in Espoo and Vantaa has been more or less the same, according to Paloniemi. Differences also emerged between the position of Finnish and immigrant families when it came to reporting of domestic violence. We need to get out of the grip of the old perceptions and norms. "The City of Oulu has also done exemplary work in successfully organising family placements," Paloniemi says. According to a survey carried out last year by the Central Union for Child Welfare, decisions on where to locate troubled children and teens are often affected by local government agencies' preference for placing them in institutions. According to the information she has received, the two, who have both since moved out of her home, are now receiving professional care. According to the study, the Finnish administrative courts have very little understanding conceptions of family that differ from the standard Western model. HELSINKI TIMES
DOMESTIC NEWS
L E H T I K U VA / M I K KO S T I G
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
5
COLUMN
the start of 2014, has been sharply criticised for making it practically impossible for police to effectively investigate hacking and other data breaches. According to Hiitola, the documents show that administrative court officials often applied a double standard: for example, in situations where a Finnish mother is described in documents as being clearly exhausted, mothers of immigrant background were judged far more harshly, as being incapable of looking after their children. Although Hiitola's study focused on immigrant families, she emphasises that her findings are relevant for all families that differ in some respect from the standard model. "The ribbons tied to the top of the coffin have sometimes burst into flame when the coffin is being pushed into the oven. Hiitola feels it is imperative to re-evaluate the criteria by which parenting and childhood are judged to be successful. In addition to raising her biological children, in her home in Vantaa she has also raised several foster children at different times. Although Susanna has a keen sense of the importance of troubled children being placed in foster homes instead of institutions, for some children she says the latter may be the better option. Family crisis placements usually last from a few weeks to several months, and require one of the foster parents being at home full-time. Increased efforts at forest conservation have also had an effect, according to the report. "Municipalities have been generally eager to keep these care institutions in full use; the result is that a great many children and teens are in the wrong place."
MT: Quarter of forests untouched for decades
The provincial newspaper Maaseudun Tulevaisuus reported on Wednesday that over a quarter of all forests in Finland has been free of logging for over 30 years. The number of children and teens who are successfully relocated with a foster family varies greatly from one local authority to the next.
Shortage of foster families Member of Parliament Aila Paloniemi (Centre) is chair of Perhehoitoliitto ry, an organisation that represents surrogate and family car-
Crisis care system generally failing immigrants
HEL SINK I T IME S
SOCIAL psychologist Johanna
Hiitola's study of the treatment of immigrant children in compulsory foster care made headlines last summer. According to the report, there is a combination of reasons for this. "When parenting is assessed according to this model, many sorts of family formations are ruled inadmissible, even when they are not self-
evidently harmful to the interests of the child," Hiitola says. The Central Criminal Police have been particularly scathing about the new provisions, saying that in the worst case they will have the absurd effect of making it impossible to carry out electronic surveillance of suspected criminals without the prior consent of the suspects themselves. HT
In addition to raising her biological children, Susanna (not her real name) has been the mother of a crisis family for many years.
Crisis foster care system needs reform, critics say
Things are worst in small municipalities, where it is fairly common for all needy children and youths to be placed in institutions.
H A NN A NISSINE N S T T HT
SUSANNA (not her real name) has been the mother of a crisis family for many years. Do you think that Wallin should resign?
Yes 39.5 % No 60.5 %
View details and this week's question at www.helsinkitimes.fi.
Kisa Kissa
Information on Finnish Courses because you want to learn Finnish
www.finnishcourses.fi
HELSINKIESPOOVANTAAKAUNIAINEN. Violence perpetrated by native Finnish fathers was generally seen by the courts as a family-specific problem, Hiitola says, whereas domestic violence in immigrant families was "culturised," treated as indicative of broader problems in the man's or the family's culture. The situation in the capital region is also relatively good, or at least improving: whereas five years ago only 42 per cent of needy children and youth were placed with families, the proportion has now risen to 48 per cent. "Some children are so badly traumatised that they may
be a danger to themselves" without professional care, she says, adding that she had such an experience with one child she fostered. A few years ago two children were placed in her home, both of whom in Susanna's view were in need of institutional care instead. The children were placed in her care after being removed from settings that were harmful to them. According to Paloniemi, currently about a third of all children taken into care in Finland are re-homed. Local authorities pay family carers at least 650 euros a month, but in the capital region the figure is higher.
Foster families like Susanna's are sorely lacking throughout the country, because a law that came into effect at the beginning of this year has made it mandatory for home care, rather than institutional care, to be the first option for children and youth with severe problems at home
Pekka Mattila who is the CEO of Desentum Oy, the company behind the vaccine, hopes that with the help of the vaccine antihistamines would no longer be needed. Due to the recent scandal involving Finnair, the state's
Every second Finn suffers from allergy symptoms at some point in their life.
TURUN SANOMAT 25 March
Allergy vaccination may make antihistamines redundant
"IT'S HOPED that an allergy vaccination currently being developed in Finland will revolutionise the treatment of allergies. MARKO JUNKKARI
Finland's international image changed last year
"ON FRIDAY, the Ministry for
Foreign Affairs published a summary of the press reviews Finnish embassies collected in 2011. The bonuses that Finnair paid its management and which were the cause of the aforementioned scandal were worth 2.8 million euros." liamentary elections. Given the reaction Finnair's improprieties have engendered, it's surprising that Solidium's mega operation fails to evoke strong feelings. KARI HÄNNINEN
Master's Degree Programme in
"A SURVEY
The degree programme in Service Innovation and Design is a 90 ects credits professional programme, which lasts 1.52.5 years and trains students from diverse backgrounds to become practising service business developers. When Minister for International Development Heidi Hautala (Greens) suggested reducing the state's ownership of this greatly unprofitable company, it raised a storm of objections in the media as well as in Parliament. Find out more at: servicedesign.laurea.fi The online application form is at
period: The application pril, 2012 5 March to 3 A
L E H T I K U VA / J A R N O M E L A
Service Innovation and Design
Huge survey yields promising results for Nokia
sent to nearly 600,000 mobile phone users in 188 countries gives Nokia some encouraging news. If the development of the vaccine continues to be successful, it will help people suffering from the
most common pollen, food and animal allergies. The entire market value of Finnair, half of which
is owned by the state, is 300 million euros. The Greek press paid attention to Finns Party (PS) leader Timo Soini's comment `let's not give money to the lazybones of the south.' In addition to commenting on troublemaking, the biggest change in the attention given by foreign media to Finland
was the considerable amount of space dedicated to last year's parliamentary elections. 6
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
FROM THE FINNISH PRESS
T R A NSL AT IONS B Y A INO B A IN
HELSINKI TIMES
L E H T I K U VA / M AT T I B J Ö R K M A N
AAMULEHTI 25 March. The Romanian president, Traian Basescu, called Finland `unEuropean' in the local media. `As far as we know, no one else uses the same technology as we do,' Mattila says. According to the study, 36.9 per cent of respondents plan to buy as their next mobile phone a Nokia model. A third of
ownership of companies has been the talk of the country in the past few weeks. The Russian media described PS as anti-Russian. As a consequence of the sale, the state will lose about 70 million euros of dividends annually. These revealed a new kind of image of Finland: the star pupil of the EU turned out to be a troublemaker after it opposed admitting Bulgaria and Romania into Schengen and demanded that Greece provide collateral. HEIKKI IKONEN
Trading in a winning company for a bunch of losers
"THE ADMINISTRATOR of the state's listed property, the investment company Solidium, sold private institutions 450 million euros' worth of its TeliaSonera stock. In itself, it's normal to shift the focus of a stock portfolio, but Solidium is taking quite a risk. If the state sold all its Finnair shares, the price would be, at most, 20 per cent of the TeliaSonera deal. In the countries in question, Finland was also strongly criticised. In addition, a vaccine for latex and wasp allergies is being developed. Of all participants, 12.5 per cent would choose a Samsung, and only 3.8 per cent would go for an LG. Every second Finn suffers from allergy symptoms at some point in their life. The work is based on modifying the allergenic protein with the help of gene technology. The success of PS was linked to the rise of extreme nationalistic forces in the whole of Europe, but the election result was also interpreted as a sign of the star pupil growing tired of always having to pay out. In Sweden, the top news about Finland was the parL E H T I K U VA / M I K KO S T I G
Timo Soini's comment about giving "money to the lazybones of the south" was picked up on in the world press.
KAUPPALEHTI 23 March. The Bulgarian media considered Finnish actions to be unreasonable and unfair. A working vaccine would make the lives of hundreds of millions of allergy sufferers a lot easier. Germany's Financial Times Deutschland characterised the Finnish election result as `a heavy blow to the eurozone'. Third place was
In a recent survey, 36.9 per cent of respondents said that their next mobile phone would be a Nokia.
www.laurea.fi/apply
taken by BlackBerry with 20.8 per cent. On the other hand, users of Apple and
BlackBerry are most loyal to their current brand. Costing 1.6 billion euros, it's the biggestever investment by Finland, maybe even by the Nordic Countries, in a factory. The work of the Finnish company Desentum Oy is based on a patented scientific breakthrough. The Finnish brand is more than 12 per cent ahead of its closest rival, second-place Apple, with only 24.8 per cent of respondents planning to buy the latter. It is offered in English and can be completed alongside a full-time job. `We're relatively far along with modifying the allergen from birch pollen, and soon we may be able to test the production of small amounts of it. Nokia was the clear winner. The money will be invested in the mining company Talvivaara, the steel company Outokumpu and in Outotec, which produces metal technology. One gets an idea of the size of this TeliaSonera billion-euro operation when it's compared to the Stora Enso factory being built in China. According to the BBC, Soini `draws a crowd like flypaper catches flies.'"
Finns get runny noses caused by an allergy. In addition, it will give out a 600 million-euro loan that can later be exchanged for TeliaSonera shares. In the wake of PS' `big bang', the first comments made were related to fears about the weakening of the position of the Swedish language as well as to fears about increasing anti-immigration opinion. The situation is worst for LG, as a significant majority of users of its phone are considering an Apple, a Blackberry or a Nokia as their next phone.". Vuclip, a company that, amongst other things, makes video applications for mobile phones, asked which brand of mobile phone survey participants would buy next. The operation is worth more than a billion euros. In the UK, Soini was the most written about. For several years, there have been attempts to develop an allergy vaccination in different parts of the world, but results haven't been encouraging. Thanks to the strong position and results of TeliaSonera, the company has been a real dividend generator. We're also somewhat far along with the modification of certain food-related allergens such as apple and celery," Mattila adds.
HELSINGIN SANOMAT 24 March
Two-thirds of the population is under the age of 30, and that age group accounts for 90 per cent of the jobless. "I will study the matter indepth and make an appropriate announcement on Labour Day," he was reported as saying by The Star newspaper on 20 March. In 2008, the World Bank ranked Egypt as one of the top 10 remittance recipient developing countries. The government is caught between having to shore up votes in an election year and the meeting the demands of manufacturers. Young Egyptians, who were the drivers of political change, have so much potential in terms of contributing to the economic devel-
Remittances make a difference Remittances have been the most important source of private investment in rural and urban Egypt, from lower as well as from higher skilled occupations, for the past 30 years. It represents the main source of foreign currency in the country. A minimum wage policy is one of Najib's most important reform planks. "Reforms like fair wages, and a proper educational and healthcare system is what we need right now," 25- year-old Egyptian business graduate Hassan Massri says. The travel and tourism industry plays a crucial role in generating employment as well as aiding in reducing reliance on other economic sources. "For this reason, the development of new frameworks for regional and international economic cooperation with public and
L E H T I K U VA / J U S S I N U K A R I
SIMBA SHANI K AMARIA RUSSE AU IPS
Unemployment a major challenge According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), unemployment in the Arab world was 10.3 per cent in 2011 compared to a global rate of 6.2 per cent. A middle class of 20 per cent struggles to pay off loans on houses, cars and credit cards. "The IOM World Migration Report 2011 assumes that the sudden return of large numbers of migrant workers to developing countries in the course of the political transitions that took place in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya's civil conflict may have a serious
A Swedish travel guide giving information to tourists by a pool in Hurghada, Egypt on 30 January 2011. "Many of them are already struggling with high unemployment, and now they have to absorb large numbers of returnees into their labour market. But the biggest hurdle is the upcoming general election whose outcome can go either way. "Four million of them earn less than 162.5 dollars a month," said Arulchelvam Sinnaiyan, secretary-general of the Parti Sosialis Malaysia, a small but vocal party that has two lawmakers in parliament. 60 dollars for SME workers, but manufacturers say they are already struggling to stay afloat on a profit margin of three to six per cent and will lose out to competitors in Asia, especially China and India. In Egypt, tourism employs almost two million workers, generates 11 per cent of the GDP, and is the principle source of foreign currency accounting for 20 per cent of the total. impact on the economic stability of these states," IOM Cairo programme manager Piera Solinas says. Last year, the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Index revealed that institutions in the MENA region have failed to create supportive economic and social environments that could encourage youth entrepreneurship. At the same time, mass protests across the country calling for the resignation of longtime president, Hosni Mubarak, were going on.. He also
gets other incentives to take home 390 dollars, barely living wages in Malaysia. "To date, nearly 200,000 Egyptian migrants have returned back to Egypt. Najib cannot ignore warnings by Malaysia's Employers Federation that the closure of 200,000 SME units would mean the loss of four million jobs in a population of over 28 million people.
HUMAN
In Malaysia, 20 per cent of the people enjoy 70 per cent of the wages, while the bottom 60 per cent earn 20 per cent.
voters, many of whom are struggling on wages that are way below the official poverty line of 247 dollars a month. Most are semi-skilled adult males, and were likely to have been single and/or primary breadwinners who were supporting dependents through remittances, which have now been disrupted."
Arab Spring brings some sour fruits
Recent shifts in the Middle East and North Africa have presented several economic challenges such as high unemployment, an exodus of migrants from Libya and reduced tourism revenue. According to a UNDP country report, Malaysia is one country in Asia that has a wide income gap, with the top 20 per cent of people enjoying 70 per cent of the wages and the bottom 60 per cent earning 20 per cent. Egypt's population of about 85 million, which constitutes a third of the Arab world, is growing by two percent a year. Given that economic discontent played a vital role in the Arab uprisings, economic growth has become vital to sustain the fruits of revolution.
private sector organisations should be a priority, not only for the direct benefits that such cooperation would provide, but also in the interest of long-run stability and prosperity in the societies concerned." According to the Arab Tourism Organisation (ATO), popular uprisings that began a year ago leading to the toppling of regimes in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya cost the Arab world nearly 96 billion dollars, with 18 per cent of those losses in the tourism sector. "Investing in young entrepreneurs could offer alternatives for recent graduates who are entering a non-existent job market. Our talents shouldn't be wasted."
and prevent possible political upheavals. It shows the power of our votes," said factory worker Muniandy Ramasamy, 42, of Kajang, a city about 30 km south of the capital Kuala Lumpur. The region has struggled to get back on its feet with ongoing instability in countries like Bahrain where recent statistics indicate that 12 months of political unrest has cost businesses nearly 800 million dollars. Labour advocates are already calling for minimum wage deals in Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The ruling NF government wants to fix minimum monthly wages at 292. Last year, Syria generated more than 8 billion dollars due to a 40 per cent increase in the number of tourists before the uprisings. These countries are also likely to be hit financially, as migrant workers returning home will no longer be able to send remittances." This is strongly the case in Egypt, Solinas says. The country is trapped in a low-cost economy and has to move out to higher skills and higher cost manufacturing as neighbouring Singapore did in the past two decades. These countries, including Thailand and Indonesia, plan to raise wage levels to counter the widening income gaps opment of this country. China, the world's manufacturing hub, is raising its minimum wage by 13 per cent in stages over the next five years. Many of Malaysia's neighbours have minimum wage packages and use them as a social safety net to help lowly paid workers manage in tough times. But, Selangor has had to set aside 97.5 million dollars to assist state-owned companies that are unable to pay the new wages. He needs to convince SME workers that the government stands for them and not just for the rich, powerful and well connected. "I can now take home a decent wage with that," he said, adding that while his basic pay is low, he earns more by working overtime. HELSINKI TIMES
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
7
Malaysia weighs minimum wage policy
Malaysia plans to introduce a national minimum wage for its workers against stiff opposition from employers and manufacturers who warn that such a policy would shut down nearly 200,000 small and medium enterprise (SME) units.
Adding to the pressure, the opposition-ruled state of Selangor declared a Malaysian ringitt 1,500 (487 dollars) minimum wage for its employees, starting 1 January. Rising unemployment and loss of remittances from overseas migrant workers have also contributed to economic stagnation.
CAIRO, EGYPT
"IN SOCIETIES
characterised by young populations, and by a need to create hundreds of thousands of new jobs every year in order to absorb new workforce entrants, efforts to reshape economic policies and restructure the various economic sectors are of extreme importance," Ziad Majed, assistant professor of Middle East studies at the American University of Paris tells IPS. Najib has been giving One Malaysia' aid to low-income families totaling nearly 650,300,764 dollars and has promised more doles if the economy improves. "A minimum wage of 293 dollars is great news and shows how desperate they are to win. In the latest of a series of scams, a minister was forced to resign after her family diverted funds meant to make the country self-sufficient in beef production into buying plush condominiums and expensive cars. In the 2008 general elections, the bottom 60 per cent of voters, many of them SME workers, rebelled, choosing the opposition Pakatan Rakyat over the ruling National Front (NF) in the biggest upset since independence from Britain in 1957. Najib sees the four million SME workers as potential
L E H T I K U VA / M A R T T I K A I N U L A I N E N
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
BAR ADAN KUPPUSAMY IPS
resources minister Subramaniam Sinnapan has dismissed the manufacturers' claims as "false and alarmist," but Prime Minister Najib Razak appears rattled and has delayed an announcement until 1 May. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), tourism is considered a major source of foreign exchange after remittances from overseas migrant workers. While Najib is popular, he has a lot of baggage carrying the NF, especially corruption issues. In Tunisia, tourism provides employment for approximately 400,000 Tunisians and generates nearly 8 per cent of the GDP
Muxlim jumped through the same hoops as anyone else. There could also be different philosophical worldviews that come into play in the business environment. Why doesn't Helsingin Sanomat write a full-page article about every Tekes-funded company that collapses. Normally true. I DON'T want to be rude to Tekes, but I wish they weren't necessary. Don't be upset that your taxes went into a small company that failed. Many people dislike boasters. "Personal contact is key to understanding." When American Robert Sramek moved to Finland, he was struck most not by a national conventional image, but by a difference in labour policy. Mohamed 2.0 tells the story of Mohamed El-Fatatry and Muxlim, the company he founded. immigrants, for example," Hurme continues. Journalist Esa Mäkinen of Helsingin Sanomat received an advance copy of the book and wrote a critical article on 18 March about the collapse of Muxlim. National differences are often exaggerated in the research (and popular) literature, based upon evidence from bygone times."
David J. Don't oversell, and keep your promises. Still, Tekes' failure rate is tiny. He wanted to build a bridge of tolerance and understanding between Muslim immigrants and Westerners. It has been suggested that in many Western cultures time is viewed linear, but in the East it is considered as more cyclical. I'm practically certain as certain as anyone can be who wasn't part of the process. If so, what should one know about it to thrive in a Finnish company?
L E H T I K U VA / J U S S I N U K A R I
decrease, although they still exist," he explains. "I think that Finns definitely take things at face value," he explains. He is also a private investor with over ten years of experience.
Your taxes and Muxlim
A BOOK I
wrote is causing controversy, and it has not even been released yet. "The biggest difference was vacations, for sure," he says. We need them to take risks in small start-up compaDid all this hype nies, just like they did induce Tekes to give with Muxlim.
While some immigrants might find the Finnish business culture peculiar, Finns could have their own problems adjusting to working abroad. "It is true that concepts of time differ across cultures. It and El-Fatatry received a great deal of attention, both here and abroad. The best advice is to be truthful and concise. "Thus, all companies face the challenge of creating a common organisational culture. Some may have a custom of not shaking hands over a threshold. "National stereotypes may serve a useful function they can help one in initial orientation with a new acquaintance," he says. Cord david@helsinkitimes.fi The writer is a journalist and columnist for Helsinki Times. disabled, various ethnicities, and natives vs. Even the writing of the book was part of it, which my editors did not fail to notice. THE future of the Finnish economy lies in these small start-ups. Hurme thinks that some Finns could have difficulty with tardiness, giving business gifts, and being able to engage in small talk, all of which could be integral parts of other business cultures. This custom is common in much of Northern Europe. This happens, but very rarely. Unfortunately, if Tekes disappeared we couldn't make that up. Unless we are able to greatly increase our private venture capital sector, we need tax money to help fund them. He gleefully used it to promote his business, his ideas and himself. On average, about 1% Tekes-funded companies go bankrupt each year. I devoted a significant portion of the book to explore this hype and spent a lot of time arguing with El-Fatatry about it. (This is often related to power issues: those with power can make you wait.) While there are differences between Eastern and Western cultures in regard to the concept of time, there are also differences between various Eastern cultures and between various Western cultures."
grants to Muxlim?
ARE SOME of Tekes bets
The stereotype
wrong. WE IN THE press loved to write stories about this charismatic Egyptian immigrant and his grand ambitions. After all, there are talkative Finns and silent Italians." Hurme thinks that in today's globalised world with executives doing stints abroad, manufacturing facilities located a continent away, and main customers across borders there is a more homogenous worldwide corporate culture. Yet Hurme points to another perspective: superdiversity. But is there any truth to these stereotypes. old, women vs. I wish that private Finnish venture capitalists could invest 610 million into 1,928 companies like Tekes did in 2011. C O R D HEL SINKI TIMES
WHEN an immigrant first moves to Finland, she is given a host of advice about dealing with the Finnish business world. El-Fatatry came to Finland to study and started a social network for Muslims. +358-9-616 621, info@hotelanna.fi
Finns can't make "small talk" with colleagues.
www.hotelanna.fi. "No and yes," says Pertti Hurme, the head of the Department of Communication at the University of Jyväskylä. 8
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
BUSINESS
HELSINKI TIMES
Cultural differences in business
Is there a Finnish business culture. Among the complaints floating around Finnish cyberspace is about taxpayer money going to a financial failure. Being on time is considered professional and polite. Normally true. On his part, El-Fatatry loved the positive attention. men, healthy vs. No. "Advocates of superdiversity, like Steven Vertovec, tend to regard diversity as positive for the economic and cultural well-being of persons living in diverse communities and working in diverse companies," says Hurme. "When it comes to viewing time as linear or cyclical, this is a philosophical question that actually may bear some truth," Hurme opines. Generally, if a Finn wants to know something, he will ask. Conceivably, this could impact things such as a project planned by staff members of different cultures, where Westerners might
want a rigid time schedule but Easterners want more fluidity. Generally, Finns are accepting of individuality. Be glad that someone was willing to take the risk.
Finns take a lot of time off.
Finns shake hands when meeting.
Cosy hotel in the heart of Helsinki
Annankatu, 00120 Helsinki tel. If you do partake, always drink responsibly. We need Tekes. They are always on time. "It can also be positive for creativity and, ultimately, for the world economy." With the globalisation of the economy continuing at a steady pace, many organisations are turning to experts in intercultural communication. Engaging in small talk, giving business gifts and dealing with tardiness could be difficult for some Finns.
DAV I D J . THE GIST of Mäkinen's article is completely correct. "US employees hardly get vacations or take what vacations they get. Everything is relative, but yes, Finns do have a lot of holiday time compared to some other cultures. Not true. There are other factors besides nationality, such as education, experience, personal traits and gender. Muxlim was hyped, received some public funding from Tekes, and collapsed. Did all this hype induce Tekes to give grants to Muxlim. Of course. "If you promise something, they expect you to deliver." Different philosophies While some immigrants might find the Finnish business culture peculiar, Finns could have their own problems adjusting to working abroad. Not true. Their track record may be too good, in fact. "It's always good to be perceptive of other cultures, but at the same time to have a solid foundation in one's own," he concludes.
Finns dislike boasters.
NOW we come to the heart of the matter. Hurme points out that one university that prepares such experts is the University of Jyväskylä in its Master's Programme in Intercultural Communication. Finns don't ask questions in meetings. But many Finns like to get to know colleagues in social situations, which could involve the sauna. However, I have seen that some of my co-workers do work a bit while on vacation." Still, Sramek observed one common character trait in Finns that was helpful for his business life. It depends upon the individual. The press and politicians loved him. It is because the story of El-Fatatry and Muxlim is so compelling. less educated, young vs. A compelling case could be made that they need to take more risks.
SO WHY was Muxlim's failure such big news. Personal interaction with coworkers, both face-to-face and technologically mediated, is of paramount importance." He says that diversity can be regarded as a problem, as it is so often depicted in public discussions on multiculturalism. Maybe this was an experiment in meta-nonfiction.
Finns are quiet and won't ask questions during meetings.
Finns hate tardiness.
Finns expect you to drink alcohol at business parties.
Finns like to negotiate and seal important deals in the sauna.
Superdiversity "Depending upon the definition, all companies and organisations have many diverse cultures: educated vs. Muxlim ended up failing, and some people are angry about the tax money it received.
MUXLIM was variously a social network for Muslims, a content aggregator, and a consumer consultant. They believe in egalitarian business structures. "National differences are just one type of difference across people living in different cultures. "Comparison by national cultures makes little sense, as there is so much varia-
tion within national cultures. Some Finns might be uncomfortable making small talk, but others could be experts in the art.
Useful clichés Even though the old Finnish business culture clichés are less apparent today, Hurme thinks that they could have some value. Finns embrace their holidays and actually take the time to relax. "I believe that there is an international business culture emerging, where national differences tend to
The truth Not true, but there are always individual exceptions. For instance, being late in a meeting is not tolerated in Finland, the USA and China, whereas it is more acceptable in some other cultures. It was a mutually-beneficial relationship. If you don't want to drink, they will accept that. This is the nature of venture capital
Since then Eloranta has been continually working with members of parliament and the public at large to emphasise that the time is right to push the agenda of attracting investments forward. Foreign investors need to know why
they should invest in Finland, and this requires a proactive strategy. When competing for international investments, it is sensible to further strengthen the standing of the metropolitan area as the stronghold area of Finland."
Implementation While the plan is well and good, it means nothing if there is not the political
will to make the required reforms. HELSINKI TIMES HELSINKI TIMES
HELSINKI Business Hub
BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS
www.helsinkibusinesshub.fi
4 4 APRIL 2012 29 MARCH 10 MARCH 2010
9 9
P E T R I K RO O K
Attracting foreign investment is a matter of willingness
Jorma Eloranta, the former head of Metso, has crafted a plan to bolster the flow of investments into Finland.
OVER the past several weeks
Jorma Eloranta has been creating momentum in the highest levels of government to make Finland more attractive for foreign investments. "Both ministers in the Ministry of Employment and the Economy Jyri Häkämies and Lauri Ihalainen were most thankful when I presented the report to them. "We all form the community: international companies that have invested in Greater Helsinki, the entities in the region that provide services to these firms, universities and research organisations, innovators, start-up entrepreneurs and talented individuals. Shah helps these firms with business intelligence, access to contacts and participation in forums. He also
helps them with support on Finnish legislation, taxation and recruitment through a network of service provider companies. It is especially urgent as Parliament is currently discussing the upcoming budget.
ICC SUOMEN OSA S TO
"If we are unable to get more jobs in the private sector, we will be unable to have the needed economic growth and balance," he continues. Shah says the feedback has been positive.
"We see the Helsinki Business Hub as a community," he says. He was appointed as Head of a Government Commission to focus on the issue, and working at break-neck speed, Eloranta has already come up with a plan. "Implementation is the main point," confirms Eloranta. Eloranta also points to the strength of the Greater Helsinki area: "The capital area region is internationally recognised and attractive. In addition, GHP acts as an avenue for companies to make suggestions to improve the Finnish business environment. High impact international investments are mostly knowledge-driven, they improve the international accessibility of the region and increase the global standing of Greater Helsinki.
Jorma Eloranta
Concrete proposals The report consists of a review of the current situation, as well as five main theses and forty concrete proposals to improve the state of affairs. Also my discussions with the Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen have been very positive." With a left-right coalition in Government and increasing calls for austerity, getting proposals enacted could be tough. Greater Helsinki Promotion drives all these entities to work together and create success. "We have seen some indicators what will happen with my proposals as the outcome of the strategic framework budget meeting in March, and the response in this meeting was fairly positive as far as can be seen based on the information available at this time. As Head of Investor Development at Greater Helsinki Promotion,
his task is to fulfil one of the criteria in Eloranta's report. As the Government is currently in discussions regarding public finances, it has the opportunity to make this a stated priority and follow it up with a concrete programme. In mid-March the Bank of Finland released statistics about Finland's foreign direct investment situation. The report emphasises that Finland must develop our strengths and turn our weaknesses into strengths. These firms will be invited to networking events and information will be delivered to them. This is a very challenging target. These include implementing investment-friendly tax and labour market reforms. This could also be practical issues related to living in Finland and doing business here." GHP will contact nearly 100 companies that have made a high-impact investment in the Greater Helsinki area over the past three years. Together, we strive to make the Helsinki Business Hub a dynamic world-class centre for business and innovation."
Investments by country of origin USA 15 International consortium 6 France 5 Sweden 5 UK 4 China 3 Estonia 2 Germany 2 Japan 2 Denmark 1 Hong Kong 1 Ireland 1 Norway 1
www.helsinkibusinesshub.fi
This page is provided by Greater Helsinki Promotion.. Last year investment inflows were 400 million euros. "This could be advice on international schools and forums, like Otaniemi International Network. Bureaucratic hurdles must be lessened, such as combining various permit and registration procedures. Some organisations are doing that already. Luckily, response has been positive so far.
"The big issue is how the Government is willing to invest into growth and development initiatives at the same time they simply have to cut spending and increase some taxes," Eloranta concludes. After considering pass-through flows, where money comes to Finland only to be immediately reinvested abroad, the central bank says "on average, there were practically no direct investment inflows in 2008-2011."
Time is right "Finland needs more private sector jobs," Eloranta says bluntly. "That would mean a lower living standard for Finns, since there would not be an economic basis for our present level of well-being."
Greater Helsinki Promotion drives high impact international investments into Helsinki. "We want to support the individual business leaders with international backgrounds al-
so on a personal level," Shah continues. The Government was able to agree to some important actions based on my and others' proposals."
High Impact International Investments into Greater Helsinki in 2011
Ecosystem Information communication tech Knowledge-intensive business services Life sciences Logistics Cleantech Financial services Nanotech Total Investments 19 12 10 4 1 2 1 48 Jobs created or secured 646 378 535 416 85 10 62 2,132 Economic value (MEUR) 481.7 72.9 127.9 27.7 200 900.2 9 1,119.4
Taking care of business
ONE OF JORMA ELORANTA'S
main proposals to improve investments into Finland is the active courting of foreign investors. Secondly, Eloranta reports that fundamentals influencing investment decisions must be in place. "Hopefully, happy and thriving companies become successful, grow and expand with significant positive impact on the region," he explains. It is mission impossible without foreign workers and foreign direct investment to Finland." His comprehensive 96-page report was released in February. Sandeep Shah's main job is to take care of international companies in the Greater Helsinki region. The first main point is that attracting foreign investment is a matter of willingness. "I as well as the working group for financial strategy headed by Kari Stadigh said that Finland needs 200,000 jobs in the private sector by 2020. The final proposal is that attracting foreign investment requires active sales
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Elop says. `We've stumbled, we're back on our feet and we're running again'..."
tack unless severely provoked. `I think it would have been better left unsaid,' the diplomat said. The management plan presents various measures to protect the wolf population, including compensation for damage caused by wolves. Since talk of wolves generates strong feelings and contradictory views, a management plan for the wolf population was drafted in 2005. Shortly after Mr. herding areas, the wolf The last time anyone is a protected species, and hunting wolves is was killed by a wolf therefore forbidden.
THE WOLF is an endangered species in Finland. Viren fell in the 10,000-metre event in the 1972 Munich Olympics, picked himself and went on to win gold and set a world record. Since these concerns are more psychological than fact-based, they must be allayed by some other means than killing wolves. Elina Väisänen from the New Zealand Scandinavia Business Association said the comments were outrageous and the Finnish economy could teach Brownlee plenty. Wolves have always been a subject of debate for Finns. Finland-based Nokian Tyres promoted its wares by having test driver Janne Laitinen take the electric car called the
Electric RaceAbout (E-RA) across a really cold six-kilometer (3.75-mile) test track on Lake Ukonjärvi in Inari, near the northern tip of Finland. `Our power stations are built by French,' he said, while stressing there were two more nuclear power stations underway. Its protection is guaranteed by international agreements, including the EU's Habitats Directive. Many people and organisations around Finland were interviewed when this plan was drawn up. He said Nokia is `standing on a burning platform' and that only a radical overhaul of culture and technology would save the onetime corporate champion. Mr. `That's us," Mr. `Member states have a couple of years to take austerity measures to restore and strengthen credibility for when the operations end.' The European Central Bank's 1 trillion euros ($1.3 trillion) of three-year loans to lenders since December were `extremely necessary and successful,' helping avoid an acute crisis and buying time for fiscal changes, he said..."
Satu Haapanen is an MP for the Greens.
Wild and fascinating wolves
AMONG Finland's four
large predator species wolf, bear, wolverine and lynx the wolf is certainly the one that evokes the most emotions in people. Parents are apprehensive of letting their children walk to school in more remote areas and joggers are nervous about running on forest paths. ONLY
in Finland was in the 19th century.
AUTOBLOG GREEN 25 March
Finland-built electric car reaches 156 miles per hour on ice
"THE WORLD'S fastest-ever speed by a electric car on ice was reached this week. On 27 March, Brownlee apologised for the offence his comments had caused.
GLOBE AND MAIL CANADA 23 March
ARAB NEWS 26 March
Finland offers Kingdom expertise in N-energy
"A VISITING
high-ranking official from Finland told Arab News on Wednesday in an exclusive interview that his country could provide security installation services to the Saudi atomic energy project, given the country's expertise in this concern." "Esko Hamilo [undersecretary of state for ministry of foreign affairs] said that Finland did not have the technology, as there are only a few countries in the world
that do. Unfortunately, the way wolves are portrayed in stories and myths has done little to allay people's fear of them.
THIS FEAR has led to wolves being hunted, and in the late 19th century this drove them to extinction in Finland. Cooperation and agreements are needed so that the wolf may live in peace. Elop won't say whether the worst is over for Nokia. `Our main exports are sent to Europe, but as Europe is currently in recession, we have to find new partners and a new market, and Saudi Arabia is obviously one of them.' The official said his twoday visit to Jeddah and Riyadh was not a traditional one. It was losing market share and value at alarming rates. In reindeer herding areas, in particular, talks should be held between the various parties in order to enable reindeer herding to be successful despite the presence of wolves and other predators. At the time, Nokia was a mess. He already has a new metaphor and it is Lasse Viren, Finland's most famous runner. Answering a question on the agenda of his visit, he said, `I am representing the Finnish government, as I am the foreign affair undersecretary for external economic affairs. `This will create a storm when the comments go back to Finland.' He added. `You get a hell of a lot more money selling a Nokia than a couple of sheep.' Väisänen acknowledged Finland might have more murders, but said random acts of violence were very rare. Wolves are regarded with both fear and admiring respect. Nevertheless, there is a genuine fear of wolves in areas where they roam. But hunters' claims that wolves affect elk populations are on a shaky foundation, as there are certainly enough elks for both wolves and humans. Outside reindeer severely provoked. We got to test drive the car at the 2011 Michelin Challenge Bibendum, but not at such high speeds. However, reindeer and sheep losses caused by wolves and other predators are a real problem, which is why reindeer herders receive compensation for damage caused by wolves. But you get nutters everywhere.' On Friday, Brownlee said the debate on Finland and the Labour leadership was essentially humorous though within humour, there was satire, and within satire, some truth. Sadly, illegal hunting is relatively common even today, especially in the eastern parts of Finland and in the reindeer herding areas of the north. HEALTHY wolves are afraid of humans and will not at-
New Zealand's Minister for Economic Development Gerry Brownlee's comments about Finnish people have sparked outrage and made headlines in Europe. Wolves have been here longer than humans. Mr. However, over the last 100 years, wolf migration from Russia has compensated for this, and there are currently about 150-165 wolves in Finland. Elop joined Nokia, he used a brutally honest internal memo to employees promptly leaked to read them the riot act. If you don't believe us, we've got video proof after the break.
T O P S P E E D.C O M
The E-RA garnered attention last August when it completed a lap at the famed Nürburgring in Germany in 9 minutes 40 seconds and was, of course, a Progressive Automotive X-Prize contender.
Laitinen and his 375-horsepower E-RA reached a speed of 156.64 miles per hour. Finland's wolves are a part of Russia's wolf population, and the gene flow from Russia through Finland to other Nordic countries must be guaranteed. Illegal hunting has no place in the 21st century.. He said the debate should not have offended Finns..." Saudi Arabia in one of the countries that experience good growth, in contrast to European countries, according to Hamilo. The E-RA garnered attention last August when it completed a lap at the famed Nürburgring in Germany in nine minutes and forty seconds and was, of course, a Progressive Automotive X-Prize contender. Now, hit the jump for some..."
few have come face to face with a wolf. But he's optimistic, to the point he's ready to douse the `burning platform' metaphor. `This is actually a very focused delegation to visit companies that work in mining and the mining industry here in Saudi Arabia.' He continued, `We discussed various business opportunities and cooperation, such as with Ma'den Company in Jeddah and Sabik in Riyadh.' ..."
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
11
Finns fuming at Brownlee's comments
"A TOP
BLOOMBERG BUSINESS WEEK 24 March
minister has sparked a near-diplomatic incident after suggesting Finns are uneducated, unemployed murderers who don't respect women.
Speaking in Parliament, Leader of the House Gerry Brownlee rejected Labour's plans to model the economy on Finland, `which has worse unemployment than us, has less
L E H T I K U VA / M A R T Y M E LV I L L E
Euro Leaders Need to Step Up Austerity, Finland's PM Says
"EUROPEAN policy makers can't rely on the central bank to manage the region's crisis and must now follow with measures to cut debt and restore economic confidence, Finland's Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen said. HELSINKI TIMES NEW ZEALAND HERALD 25 March
FINLAND IN THE WORLD PRESS
growth than us, can hardly feed the people who live there, has a terrible homicide rate, hardly educates its people, and has no respect for women.' Ari Hallenberg, Finland's consul-general in Auckland, said Brownlee's comments were inaccurate. The car was riding on Nokia Hakkapeliitta 7 studded tires, which the company said exhibited `relentless grip and stable handling necessary at extreme speeds.' The ERA was built by Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. `You get a few school shootings every once in a while, which nobody is proud of. My role is to open doors for companies, and the companies themselves will do the business.'
Stephen Elop: Putting Nokia back in the race
"TWO-AND-A-HALF years later (after Elop was appointed head of Microsoft's business division), Nokia came knocking and he was made CEO of the world's biggest mobile phone company, complete with a $6-million (U.S.) signing bonus. `Crisis management can't be outsourced to the central bank,' Katainen said in an interview in Saariselkä, Finland. Government-subsidised school transportation could help relieve parents' anxiety. According to the OECD, Finland has the best education system in the world. The new hunting licences risk wiping out wolves entirely from reindeer herding areas.
AS WITH other challenges in society, broadly-based cooperation is essential in predator policy too. The last time anyone was killed by a wolf in Finland was in the 19th century. But these compensation funds are currently running out, which is why the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry last week grantHealthy wolves are ed 15 new wolf hunting afraid of humans and licences for Lapland, will not attack unless Koillismaa and Kainuu. `Very hard to predict,' he says
The use of electronic cigarettes has earlier been prohibited or restricted by airlines, the national railway company VR, some municipalities and in restaurants.. There is also a risk of respiratory symptoms in nearby persons from the release of steam and glycerol fumes from the liquid cartridge of the cigarettes. The first such competition will be held during the spring, and the bonuses will come into effect in the autumn. The bonus may be granted for reduced fuel consumption, and for more efficient exhaust gas cleaning.
Break in metro service in July
The metro service will be out of service from 14 July through 22 July. biogas, biodiesel, or bioethanol. Since then, the whole range of positions in public transport have become open to women. The main reason for employing women was economic: whereas male conductors demanded a monthly salary of 185 Marks a month, women settled for 140. At the time, employing women conductors caused a scandal, and the men feared that soon they would all be out of work. The Kulosaari-Ruoholahti line will be completely closed during that period, on account of the excavation work carried out with explosives during that time. It was feared that the presence of female staff would only act as further temptation for males to misbehave on board. 12
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
HELSINKI TIMES
Women's careers on the rails began with conducting
Photo courtesy of Helsinki City Museum photo archives.
The first female tram conductors in Finland, 1917.
The first female conductors in Finland began work a century ago. Conducting was cold, uncomfortable work, since the shortage of vehicles was made up for with open-backed trams with no heating and thin, uninsulated walls. When the men returned from war, the women returned to their work as conductors, and there were no more female drivers on Helsinki's trams until 1966. On and between these dates, there will be metro service only between Mellunmäki to Kulosaari, and Vuosaari to Itäkeskus. Nowadays, a full one-third of tram drivers are women. Women drivers tend to be more patient, and are flexible when it comes to customer service."
HSL introduces eco-bonuses for bus operators
Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) will start to grant credits to bus operators who implement effective emissions-reducing measures. The ban is due to the risk of the electronic cigarettes being mistaken by other passengers and customers for regular cigarettes, which would inevitably lead to difficulties. At first there was widespread scepticism of women's ability to cope with the work, since the job description included keeping order on the trams. There are fifteen traffic supervisors, of whom six are women. HSL has reserved 600,000 euros for the initiative. The bonus model will take account of carbon dioxide emissions and harmful related emissions. To avoid any risk of scintillation, the female conductors wore ankle-length skirts and keenlength boots.
Female drivers
During the war years, a need for women drivers arose when the men were off fighting on the front. The bonus will only be awarded for using biofuels made from recycled materials, however. Transport operators can showcase their proposed measures in a bidding process which will be held annually. The criterion for awarding the bonuses include use of biological fuels, i.e. "Nowadays steering the trams is not physically demanding. The effects of emissions are calculated according to the sustainability criteria set out in European Union directives. The first trams came into operation in Helsinki in the 1890s, and for the first two decades the industry was entirely male-dominated. Based on her long experience of trams, director of HKL Tram transport Eija Tuomonen takes the view that women do well on the rails, often even better than men. The training was rushed, and the work was hard: the women had to drive through blacked-out parts of the city at night, and when air raid sirens went off they had to direct passengers to the nearest shelter. The tram company recruited its first female conductors in 1917. The connections to eastern Helsinki from the city centre will be replaced with additional bus routes. Helsinki city centre can be reached from Itäkeskus by bus 99 and from Herttoniemi by bus 99B. In addition, Herttoniemi, Roihuvuori and Laajasalo feeder buses will run to and from the city centre (Railway Station) during the time the metro is out of service.
Electronic cigarettes not permitted on public transport
HSL does not permit the use of electronic cigarettes on any of its vehicles, in HSL offices or service points, nor in HSL staff break rooms
Less than five per cent of all rental properties remain company-owned. The financial benefit company-owned housing brings is significant. In the capital region, rent of over 14 euros per squared metre was paid, while in the rest of the country it was around 9.50 euros. Meckelborg doesn't think that deceit is involved in the cheapness of company-owned properties; the state simply wants to support cheap accommodation, he says. One of the oddities is that when values for tax purposes are calculated, Finland is divided into a mere two zones the capital region and the rest of the country. In the capital region, the least sales were made in Espoo.
The capital region is notorious for its high rents, but some people in leading positions in companies are able to avoid paying these.
Low rents for high earners
The average person has no other option but to pay market prices for rent or take out a large mortgage.
ANT TI AUTIO ST T ALL AN BAIN HT
Capital region plot prices for detached houses very steep
HEL SINKI TIMES
LAST YEAR,
the average price per squared metre of a plot of land for a small house was 161 euros in the capital region, while elsewhere in Finland the price was 14.2 euros, according to data released by Statistics Finland earlier this month. The 4.3 per cent increase in detached house prices from last year seen in the capital region was the strongest. He admits, however, that in some cases legal or moral issues could be highlighted. In October-December last year, prices of detached houses increased throughout most of the country. This guaranteed the availability of a workforce. Moreover, the sum paid is treated like a salary when taxed. Ostrobothnia was also the area where the price of old high-rise flats rose the most in the whole country, by about 12 per cent. At the same time, Meckelborg states that generalisations mustn't be made about the matter. · The rents of capital-region houses unsupported by the state increased markedly quicker (5.2 per cent) than those located elsewhere in the country (2.7 per cent). Also in Southwest Finland and Kymenlaakso noticeably fewer houses were sold than a year ago. For example, rents went up in Jyväskylä by only 0.5 per cent and in Lahti by 1.5 per cent. Due to the complicated nature of calculating values for tax purposes, however, the benefit is less used than it could be, says Meckelborg. Of all fringe benefits, the company-owned house is
the oldest. Company-owned dwellings rose in prominence in
connection with Finnair CEO Mika Vehviläinen's living arrangement.
Oldest fringe benefit Meckelborg says that there are tens of thousands of families in Finland with a company-owned property. As such, Meckelborg says that the value for tax purposes of one property located in the centre of Turku is the same as for a property of similar size and age in Utsjoki.
Over three per cent rise in rents
· Last year, rents went up, on average, by 3.3 per cent in the whole country. Prices of plots of land consistently dropped during the whole of last year, with the trend accelerating at the end of the year. Only in North Karelia were slightly more sales made than in February 2011. Thus, the benefit isn't well known and few can be bothered finding out what's involved. · According to Statistics Finland, in the whole country rent per square metre for houses unsupported by the state was 10.74 euros. Renting properties to employees is no longer the done thing, and the houses have been sold. However, the company-owned flat isn't a relic of the past and still lives on, prospering as a form of housing for company management. Therefore, if the person occupying the dwelling pays a 50 per cent rate of tax, like high earners do, the cost of the property for this person will be 620 euros. "Nowadays, the companyowned dwelling is more often a fringe benefit for international experts or people in leading positions," says Sales Director Petri Meckelborg of the real estate agency Vuokraturva. During the year, prices dropped by around three per cent in the whole country and during October-
December by 10.5 per cent on the corresponding period the previous year. Conversely, prices became more expensive in the capital region during the year by almost two per cent. HELSINKI TIMES
HOUSING
L E H T I K U VA / A N T T I A I M O - KO I V I S T O
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House sales down in February
HEL SINKI TIMES
THE AMOUNT of house sales fell in the whole country in February. Elsewhere in the country prices went up by 0.5 per cent. Compared to July-September, prices dropped by around 0.5 per cent in the whole country.
DURING past decades, employers of large numbers of people owned entire blocks of houses and rented these company-owned dwellings out to the company's own employees at a cheap rate. · So-called Arava flats, which are partly funded by cheap state loans, were 10.80 euros per squared metre in the capital region and just over nine euros elsewhere in the country.
L E H T I K U VA / M A R J A A I R I O. An average person living in the capital region will only get a 30 m2 studio apartment in Vantaa's Myyrmäki for the same price. "The taxman intentionally keeps values for tax purposes low," Meckelborg emphasises. For instance, according to Vuokraturva's calculations, a 110 m2 fourbedroom house in the upmarket district of Kruununhaka in
Helsinki that would normally cost 2,700 euros a month to rent has a value for tax purposes of only 1,240 euros a month. In Ostrobothnia, there was almost a 50 per cent drop in the number of house sales, making it the area where houses were least bought. There were 15 per cent less sales than during the corresponding time period last year, says the real estate agency Suomen Asuntoverkko.
The data is based on the Logica and Etuovi.com service, which together with Suomen Asuntoverkko represents 80 per cent of all house sales made in Finland
3) I pay 196 per month. In the countryside it has been more common for people to build their own homes," Lehtinen says.
GRANDPARENTS in presentday Finland, in the days long before they were grandparents, typically bought their home for life. For the generation that experienced the wars,
loan periods were long, but mortgage interest rates were far lower than they are now. 3) I pay nearly 800 a month. · Do you have a suggestion for a topic that you would like to see featured in the upcoming issues?
Please send any feedback or suggestions you have to info@helsinkitimes.fi
saved for five years before buying, Lehtinen himself for three, and his son not at all. Now, those who are at the age when it's time to consider buying one's own home generally demand more space than their predecessors. Nowadays the same subsidising function is carried out through the markets. 4) When I am older I will buy a house. Luxurious features include pale oak parquet flooring, tiled bathrooms with underfloor heating and attached sprucepanelled saunas. 2) How many square metres is your apartment or house. Their own children typically ended up purchasing old single- or two-roomed apartments, which they usually left when children came along. Focusing in particular on the capital region, Lehtinen
Savings a thing of the past In Lehtinen's view, the upward trend in standards of living has never been reflected in people's homebuying practices in the capital region. SATO Vuokraus ja myynti
Calls from fixed lines 8,28 cents/call + 7 cents/minute, from mobile phone 8,28 cents/call + 17 cents/minute.. 4) No, I think it is too expensive here. Consequently, because of the larger mortgages needed, loan periods have stretched again, up to between 20 and 25 years. This is the basic picture of things presented by researcher Ilkka Lehtinen, who has studied and compared trends in first-home buying across the generations since the war years. When I've finished my studies I might buy a house back home. 2) My apartment is roughly 76 square metres. The first state-financed apartment in the country
was built in Helsinki only in the late 1940s. In bygone years, it was essential for people to save before being able to take out a morgage. 4) Would you consider buying your own apartment or house?
Joanna (20) from Finland 1) I live in Kannelmäki in Helsinki. This, says Lehtinen, is no different from the early post-war years. 3) I pay 388 euros each month. 2) 24 square metres. "Elsewhere in the country the general path of development has been somewhat different. Lehtinen says his own family was a typical case, and that his own family tree is a perfect example of the change that has taken place in this regard: his own father
Compiled by Kassandra Guy and Leanne Sullivan.
Have your say
· What did you think of the topics discussed in this housing themed issue. "Finland in the 1950s was a country with very little capital. Amir (25) from Kosovo 1) I live in Itäkeskus in Helsinki. Loan periods had genL E H T I K U VA / S A R I GU S TA F S S O N
erally shortened by this time, but getting a mortgage had also gotten a lot harder than in their parents' day. Spacious floor plans, solid concrete walls and huge industrial-style windows lend an impressive loft feel. 3) How much rent do you pay. Mortgage interest rates have generally dropped. The most typical home size in the capital region nowadays is around 60 square metres, with one or two bedrooms. 4) I will in the future.
The most typical home size in the capital region nowadays is around 60 square metres, with one or two bedrooms.
Back to the future for Helsinki homebuyers
According to a Statistics Finland study, the trend in first-home purchases in the capital region has moved back towards the pattern of the early post-war years: long-term mortgages, at low interest rates.
JA ANA VA AHTIO ST T HT
found a great deal of diversity, and no little imagination, in the ways in which people have secured their first home at different times in Finland's recent history. 14 2929 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012 14 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
HOUSING
L E H T I K U VA / M I N N A R A I TAV U O
HELSINKI TIMES
Helsinki Times asks...
1) Where do you live. Siiri (20) from Finland 1) At the moment I live in Herttoniemi in Helsinki. One major reason for this is that real estate prices have risen in tandem with increased earnings. Loan periods are long and interest rates low," Lehtinen summarises.
Individual rental living in five-star SATO RentHome
Kamppi, Lönnrotinkatu 32, 00180 Helsinki This old industrial building dates back more than 100 years and now boasts unique city homes. 2) I rent a room that is approximately ten square metres but I share an upper floor with other people
The majority of estate agents still have faith in Oikotie," says Kouhi. Alma Mediapartners is holding co-determination negotiations with the employees at Etuovi. From the start of the year the drop has been as much as 30 per cent. A few weeks ago, Etuovi also launched a service that allows estate agents to place adverts with a limit-
ed amount of information on the website for free. HELSINKI TIMES
HOUSING
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Competition intensifies on the property listing market
The Etuovi, Jokakoti and Oikotie property portals compete with their prices and services.
NINA TÖRNUDD ST T HT
THERE
is intense competition for visitors and advertisements on the Finnish property listing market. It is also particularly popular
in the areas in which it has a newspaper partner, such as Helsingin Sanomat, Turun Sanomat, Kaleva, EteläSuomen Sanomat and the Sanoma Group's local papers in South-East Finland.
Adverts are a source of news Riikka Wulff, Managing Director of Alma Mediapartners, says that there is no use in having a large number of advertisements if users cannot find what they are looking for easily. In their traditional form, property listings have provided a profitable package of classified advertisements for the weekend papers. "Alma publishes articles on advertisements that have news value. Hakala from Jokakoti predicts that newspapers will become much less important as purchase decisions are increasingly made on the internet.
You'll love the way we print it
www.iprint.fi. "We have put a lot of effort into improving the usability of the service," says Wulff. Jokakoti currently has almost twice as many advertisements as its competitors, approximately 35,000. However, many people who dream of buying a property also look at property listings on the internet," says Wulff. Matti Hakala, Business Director at Jokakoti, explains that the service's visitor numbers have increased substantially on the previous year, from under 100,000 visitors per week to 275,000 visitors per week. Oikotie has over 400,000 individual visitors per week. The major estate agent chains have transferred their advertisements to the Jokakoti service, which they own with the MTV3 television station. However, we are looking for visitors who are genuinely interested," says Wulff. Kouhi and Wulff believe that the newspapers and internet services com-
plement one another. "Print can also reach those people who are not actively searching for a property. Large newspaper advertisements create the image of a major estate agent, which is an important factor when buying properties. Etuovi has over 400,000 visitors per week, and boasts the best-functioning user interface on the basis of user research. "Would you rather sell balloons in a deserted square, or somewhere where there are lots of people. The advertisements on Jokakoti provide material for an MTV3 programme that is aired on Sunday mornings, and articles about properties advertised on Oikotie are often featured in the property section of Ilta-Sanomat. At times there is reason to be
L E H T I K U VA / M A R K K U U L A N D E R
A few weeks ago, Etuovi launched a service that allows estate agents to place adverts with a limited amount of information on its website for free.
The internet has space for a lot more information about, and pictures of, properties.
envious of what Ilta-Sanomat does when the articles have a lot of text and visibility. Riikka Kouhi, Business Director at Oikotie, says that measured by visitor numbers the service provided by Sanoma is still the overriding favourite. According to Wulff, Etuovi has intentionally kept a low profile in this type of cross-marketing. All three services have connections with media companies and these links are utilised in various ways. However, Etuovi.com, owned by Alma Media and Arena Partners, and Oikotie, owned by Sanoma and other media groups, are not going to give up without a fight, even though they have lost
a substantial share of their advertisements to Jokakoti. The breakthrough of the internet has changed this as the internet has space for a lot more information and pictures. That is their choice
"Logomo can offer a novel environment, where these companies can network and establish themselves, with the help of the Logomo brand. "We can, for instance, have a wedding ceremony here, a business conference there, while a big concert takes place in the middle," she explains. Meanwhile, the European Parliament is set to convene in Logomo in June.
Throughout Turku's year as European Capital of Culture, Logomo, as the main arena for happenings, was the name on everyone's lips. "Although the old building is being remodelled and fitted with modern infrastructure and technology, it's done in a way that respects the old building and its surroundings allowing history and stories to live on." The adaptability of Logomo is truly remarkable. The recently completed Logomo hall and the smaller auditoriums, to be completed in the fall, can stage a plethora of events, from concerts to company events and fairs. And of course, Logomo is a meeting place also for the people of Turku."
LO G O M O
It's alive Preparations for the Cultural Capital year began in 2009 for Logomo when Hartela purchased the property, a former VR machine shop. "We are not a temporary solution", stresses Päivi Rytsä, the managing director of Logomo. "Overall, Logomo is a multi-faceted unity where something is constantly happening," says Rytsä. "Location and walls alone do not guarantee anything," she acknowledges. "This sort of public-private collaboration is not exactly typical," Rytsä admits, referring to Turku's status as a minority shareholder, "but it is an indication of how the potential of creative economy is recognised in Turku and demonstrates the city's desire to promote it." The first section of the machine shop was constructed in 1876, the last in 1970. Turku is well known for its educational opportuni-
ties in the creative field and its creative know-how. "And many events are yet to be announced," hints Rytsä.
LO G O M O
LO G O M O
"Overall, Logomo is a multi-faceted unity where something is constantly happening," says Päivi Rytsä, the managing director of Logomo.
Logomo Köydenpunojankatu 14 20100 Turku Exhibitions open 10-18 Tuesday to Sunday www.logomo.fi
Logomo is also a perfect venue for symphony orchestras.
Finnish rock band Sielun Veljet performed in Logomo in December 2011.
This page is provided by the City of Turku.
LO G O M O. Logomo, still partially a construction site, is preparing for the first live broadcast of the reality singing competition The Voice of Finland, set to start in few hours. "We welcome various companies associated with creativity as well as those who supplement and utilise the creative field but do not necessarily regard themselves as part of it. "A fact that is manifested by the investments made here." The property was renovated to become the main arena for the events of 2011 and symbolised the European Capital of Culture year for many, but Logomo plans to remain at the heart of culture and creativity in Turku, "as a converging element", signals Rytsä. Yet, somehow the rehearsals proceeded smoothly, Hartela workers and the opera cast taking turns in the spirit of co-operation," Rytsä smiles. Thereby, Rytsä touts, Logomo also welcomes individual journalists, freelancers, photographers and others working from home who recognise the need for social interaction. "The Voice of Finland is absolutely the biggest thing for us this spring," Rytsä admits. "But it is vital that we do not profile ourself as a venue for only certain types of events but remain genuinely diverse." That it certainly is. Yet its substance may remain vague to many, while others ponder the future of the distinguished facility. Ahead is the Logomo hall, from which occasional flashes of red light and sounds penetrate the hall. "The fact that we have skilled professional organisers who believe in the potential of Logomo can make all the difference." Such events surely claim the headlines, as did the première of the highly acclaimed production of the opera Erik XIV conducted by Leif Segerstam in late November. Currently, two exhibitions have been extended to July due to popular demand: Fire! Fire!, which combines science and history and allows the people to relive the fire of Turku; and Only a Game. "There are over 300 microphones and nearly 200 speakers in the hall, and the feedback from the artists has been laudatory." Meanwhile, the tailor-made seating structure of Logomo-hall, weighing 164 tons, can be pushed back to increase the capacity from 800 to 3,500. 16
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
HELSINKI TIMES
Logomo is more than a temporary venue
Logomo plans to remain at the heart of culture and creativity in Turku.
T E X T: A L E K S I T E I VA I N E N
Logomo is located a stone's throw from both the Turku Central Railway Station and the bus station.
form at will to allow a variety of events, from rock concerts to conferences, and from banquets to opera, without compromising sound reproduction, vows Rytsä. The venue of Finland On Friday 9 March, the barelooking entrance hall of Logomo reverberates with footsteps and chatter. The schedule for 2012 also includes such Finnish pop-favourites as Apulanta and The Rasmus, as well as the 30th anniversary tour of the legendary W.A.S.P. Rytsä, nevertheless, remains confident. Communality and networking opportunities are especially valued by our end-users." Rytsä, nevertheless, assures us that the aim is not to compartmentalise but to truly embrace the diversity of the creative sector and to converge small and large companies to compose a flexible and diverse community. Moreover, separate entrances for auditoriums allow a number of events to take place simultaneously. "We have to organise events and attract companies, but I believe Logomo will become a permanent player, not only regionally but nationally and internationally." Structure and services In essence, the services of Logomo can be divided into two categories: short-term and long-term leasing. March alone features Mixed Martial Arts and a Turku Jazz 2012 event. The 24 000 square metres trans-
Still, attracting foreign superstars to Turku instead of the better-connected Helsinki seems a daunting task. "The opera was particularly memorable because the stage wasn't completed until six hours before the première. However, according to Rytsä, the field consists of small, albeit skilled, companies, and remains scattered. "The concept of Logomo is to bring together various elements of the creative sector into a location near the city centre." The location is indeed central, a stone's throw from both the Turku Central railway station and the
bus station, and within walking distance from the Turku Market Square. People are being escorted around and construction workers stroll in the lobby, while snacks are being prepared and tables set. The planned 8,000 square metres of workspace, similarly, allow companies to lease anything from a single workspace to 250 square metres. by UEFA, which explores Europe's fascination with football,. Once completed, Logomo will boast 24 000 square metres of creative space. Elsewhere, workspace is available for artists and companies in the creative sector
I try to avoid using the chat application and the news feed option because it's addictive. "Having coffee with friends is a great way to spice up your life. Walking and biking in this area is very pleasant. Here you can find pretty much everything without having to use a car. Sello shopping mall is big
L E H T I K U VA / J A R N O M E L A
enough that you can find everything you need and still small enough that you won't get lost! The library in Sello is the prettiest and the best library I have been to in Finland. We will have to do it more often now that we know that most Finns agree," Linda Herranen says.
Ei olla jäniksen selässä
Exploring Finnish idioms
In this weekly series, Helsinki Times looks at a common idiom in the Finnish language.
Direct English translation: Not being on the back of a rabbit. These are the findings of a survey commissioned by Kraft Foods Finland, according to which 60 per cent of Finns feel they meet their friends too seldom. · Finland's main harness racing track Vermo, which is officially regarded as the racecourse of Helsinki, can actually be found in Leppävaara. Sometimes I use skype but in the future I will be using it everyday. Very often you can see animals such as squirrels, rabbits and hogs. · North of Leppävaara's train station is Leppävaaran Urheilupuisto ("Leppävaara's stadium") where the 2005 IPC Athletics Open European Championships were hosted. You don't need to offer anything fancy because most people are more interested in you than in what you serve at the table. · Shopping centre Sello is located in Leppävaara. In this neighbourhood, there are schools, kindergartens, a library, a Kela office, an unemployment office, the Sello shopping centre, train and bus stations, pharmacies, health centres, a movie theatre, a theatre, a bowling alley, supermarkets, restaurants, parks, forests.... I use it to keep in touch with my friends from other countries mainly. I am moving to Glasgow and I will need to keep in touch with my family. Example: Ei tässä nyt olla jäniksen selässä, bussikin lähtee vasta vartin päästä. 2) It has some affect on friendships because now there is no need to ask how somebody's day went. We live in southern Leppävaara in Espoo. Explore different areas of Helsinki and its surroundings with a local guide!
LEPPÄVAARA
Shopping centre Sello is located in the heart of Leppävaara.
Maria Luisa Lozano Letelier and her daughter enjoy the winter.
Modern living in a green garden-like environment
Maria Luisa Lozano Letelier, is originally from Chile and raised in Brazil. 2) No I always make time for my friends.
Viivi (19) from Finland 1) It depends on the type of day I am having. What kind of neighbourhood is it. "You find yourself thinking about how you will need to serve various dishes and have an immaculately clean house, which is next to impossible when you have kids. It appears that Finns surf the net even though they would like to spend more time with friends. She moved permanently to Finland 10 months ago after being evacuated from Egypt with her family. Meaning: Not being in an immediate hurry. Friends can call by without bringing presents or hav-
ing any particular reason. Train from Leppävaara will take you to the Helsinki Central railway station in about 15 minutes.
Did you know. And you never get around visiting anyone yourself, even though you could easily call in on someone on your evening walk," Herranen says. Leppävaara is a district of Espoo and a very nice, calm, central and easy neighbourhood. Sello was the first European shopping centre to be granted the golden LEED environmental certificate so it can boast of being environmental friendly with a clean conscience. How long have you lived there. They promote a lot of fun events, seminars and classes for children and adults all year around. I love the idea of being in a great central location, and yet having the feeling of a quiet "village". There were no geographical differences in the responses. "A third of the respondents felt that social media
was to blame for the fewer visits," says Haikola. One in two respondents said they visit friends less often and that they also receive visitors less often than before. Sometimes I will spend up to an hour on Facebook. The survey was conducted in autumn 2011 and included a total of 1,019 Finns of different ages.
Meeting for coffee spices up life We asked three women about the changes in how often we visit people and the findings of the survey did not surprise them. In this survey, social media had a rather prominent role. What does it matter how tidy or messy your house is, sitting down for a cup of cof-
fee with a friend is always a lovely thing to do," says Katja Loikkanen, a mother of two small children. HELSINKI TIMES
LIFESTYLE
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
17
HEL SINK I T I M E S
In this fortnightly series, Helsinki Times has a chat with different people about the places they live in. It's quick and convenient.
Compiled by Kassandra Guy and Leanne Sullivan.
no longer meet as often as they would like to. Please recommend one shop or service in your neighbourhood that you would like to promote. What do you like about your neighbourhood. I think it is good for contacting my friends who live abroad. We are not in an immediate hurry; the bus is only leaving in 15 minutes.. You're always busy and home less often than you used to be. 20 European and 12 world records were broken during the event.
Helsinki Times asks...
1) How much time per day do you spend in social media, Facebook e.g.. We also create our own obstacles for visits. 2) Do you think you meet your friends less because of social media?
Finns want to meet up with their friends more often
According to a recent survey, social media has had an effect on how often we visit each other.
HEL SINKI TIMES
Ida (18) from Finland 1) I spend one hour per day on Facebook. You already know by checking their status on Facebook. A great place to go to! Other things you would like HT readers to know about your neighbourhood. "In fact, an even greater proportion two out of three of women felt this way. But while mothers would like to meet their friends, everyday life brings its challenges. There are also many sports facilities including an ice rink, a swimming hall, ski tracks, a track and field and you can walk to all of these places! What is special about your neighbourhood. Facebook, online chats and texts now take up much of the time we used to spend by making visits. Social media can be praised and blamed for many things and it does influence how often we meet our friends and visit each other. I like going to my friend's house and chat to them there or to the cinema.
FRIENDS
Maria (20) from Finland 1) I usually spend one hour a day on Facebook. Where do you live. She's one of the founders of the Grupo Cultural Gente Brasileira, a non-profit organisation that seeks to promote Brazilian culture and language for children and adults alike. 2) No I prefer to meet with my friends and talk face to face. You can see plants and flowers, even berries and butterflies! Or nice snowy forests... "The threshold for asking friends over has become higher in recent years. Especially those in families with children under 7 years of age wished for more visits," says Ville Haikola from YouGov Finland, who conducted the survey. We have lived here for 10 months now. Linda Herranen, who hosted our get-together, easily recognised herself from the answers
Organised by the Finnish Tattoo Artist Association for the first time in 1995 at the Old Student House, the exhibition has expanded to incorporate a wide variety of styles by different artists, with the current trend being Japanese-inspired artwork. Next up, in the first of two films this year based on Snow White, Mirror Mirror sees the oft-brilliant director Tarsem Singh teaming up with Julia Roberts, and Phil Collins' daughter Lily, to share their Grimm perspective. An original member of The Libertines, who exploded onto the scene in 2002 as the Best New Thing in British Music with the single What a Waste, Doherty became a household name with the release of the band's fulllength debut, Up the Bracket,
and the growing number of tales detailing his excessive lifestyle. First up sees the second installment of the Clash of the Titans series. Finally, the brilliant Aardman Studios are back to their stop-motion best in Pirates! after flirting in recent years with computer animation. Seuss has yet to be successfully brought to the screen, that won't stop Hollywood from trying. Thirdly, Delicacy (Nainen, jonka nimi on Nathalie), introduces audiences to Audrey Tatou's French widow, still in mourning after the death of her husband three years earlier. Furthermore, a Woman and Film seminar is being staged at Bio Rex on Friday asking the question: Does sex matter in the Finnish film industry?
Artisokka Film Festival 29 March-1 April www.artisokka.fi
Sunday is a fun day
1 April is prankster's paradise everywhere from Brazil to Japan and Italy to South Africa.
DAV I D DU N N E HEL SINKI TIMES
THIS SUNDAY
is April Fools' Day, when people across the planet play tricks and goodnatured jokes on friends, family and work colleagues. Callers to the esteemed national broadcaster enquired as to whether a spaghetti tree might bear fruit in the UK. Seuss' The Lorax tells the tale of a 12-year-old boy seeking the one thing that will enable him to win the heart of his dream girl. Full credit must go to the UK's BBC, whose current af"Best Japanese Tattoo", "Best Backpiece Tattoo" and "Best Neoclassic Tattoo, as well as a "Best of the Day" tattoo category. With the addition of the esteemed Danny Huston to the cast, joining the likes of Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes for more Greek mythology-based shenanigans, one can't help but be intrigued. 18
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
CULTURE
HELSINKI TIMES
Cinematic sextet
J A M E S O ' S U L L I VA N HEL SINKI TIMES
Mia Hansen-Løve's Goodbye First Love captures the agony and the ecstasy of adolescence.
Annual Artisokka
J A M E S O ' S U L L I VA N HEL SINKI TIMES
on women on screen as directors, filmmakers and actresses, Artisokka Film Festival is being held this weekend, screening over 20 films. While the rather mad world of Dr. Ricky Bahl tipping fantasy over the edge. And 1508 the French poet Eloy D'Amerval refers to poisson d'avril or April fish in France and Spain the trick is to try tack a paper fish to the victim's back without being noticed. sees performances from The Flaming Sideburns and Sami Saari and the Teasers with burlesque artist Loulou D'vil.
Helsinki Ink 2012 30 March-1 April Tickets 12-20 (free entry for the carers of the disabled) Cable Factory Tallberginkatu 1 Helsinki
SANT TU SARK A S
tale of Freud and Jung and the birth of psychoanalysis. However, plagued by reports of Doherty's ongoing substance-abuse problems, the band eventually folded after the release of their selftitled 2004 follow-up. Furthermore, a number of competitions will be held across the weekend, such as
some time out from keeping the tabloid headlines busy, Pete Doherty arrives in Finland to remind us all that he is still a musician, with a solo show at Korjaamo on Thursday 29 March. Perhaps the forthcoming Snow White and the Huntsman might be an improvement, with Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth doing battle with Charlize Theron's evil queen. Elsewhere, the Johnny Depp-led Hunter S. In 1698 on 1 April people were tricked into going
fairs programme Panorama ran a special on 1 April 1957 showing Swiss people harvesting spaghetti from `spaghetti trees' perhaps one of the greatest mass-pranks of modern times. Young Adult, meanwhile, sees director Jason Reitman and screenwriter Diablo Cody teaming up again for the first time since the acclaimed Juno. This year sees Wuthering Heights director Andrea Arnold visiting the festival as a guest, as well as an appearance on Friday by Swedish documentary filmmaker
FOCUSING
Jessica Nettelbladt, who will be attending the screening of her film I Am My Own Dolly Parton. Last year Google ran a clever April Fools' prank involving Google translate for animals, which would allow people to talk to the animals. The Flemish tradition is for children to lock their parents or teachers outside, only letting them in when they offer treats and during the Joseon Dynasty in Korea the pranks involved sending boxes of snow to the victims the tricks also meant that a servant could play a prank on the king with no repercussions. And for those seeking to celebrate once the event has closed its doors on Saturday, an event at Virgin Oil Co. However, the joke was on Google in 2004 when the beta release of Gmail on April 1 that year was taken by many to a practical joke.
THIS week sees a walloping six new films on release, from a number of genres. However, she gradually becomes able to smell the roses again when her Swedish co-worker begins to court her. The local scene is represented by a series of short films. An evil queen (Roberts) steals control of a kingdom, with Collins' now-exiled princess seeking the assistance of seven resourceful rebels to help reclaim what's rightfully hers. We Need to Talk About Kevin offers a nightmarish scenario of parents who grow to discover that their son is not the loving boy they would like him to be. Disparate perspectives of India are on display this year, with the arthouse film Mumbai Diaries joining Michael Winterbottom's Trisha in the reality stakes and Bollywood spectacle Ladies Vs. Promising ample flexing of muscles and windswept long locks, along with a hefty dose of incredible logic, this will no doubt come close to the huge box office haul of its predecessor's half a billion dollars. Currently working on new material, Doherty will be supported at Korjaamo by DJs Wagner and Mustapha Million, who will be warming up proceedings from 8 pm.
Pete Doherty 29 March, 20:00 Tickets 29-35 Korjaamo Töölönkatu 51 A-B Helsinki. This
week, animated flick Dr. Quickly changing gears, Doherty went on to form Babyshambles, with their unpolished debut Down in Albion hinting sporadically at Doherty's talent, without allowing it to fully shine through. Local documentary Rouva Presidentti, meanwhile, follows Tarja Halonen around with a camera as she traverses the globe during the last year of her presidency. In many countries the fooling finishes up at midday or the joke is on you though in
the majority countries where this fun day is celebrated the victims are fair game for the full 24 hours. Advance word has been lukewarm, however. Aussie actor Sam Worthington reprises his role as Perseus in Wrath of the Titans, as he seeks to rescue his father, Zeus, who has been captured. Historically April Fools' origins may come from the Iranian celebration of Sizdah Bedar which has been a prank day since at least 536 BC. He sets out to discover the story of the grumpy yet charming creature Lorax, who holds the key to his success. Follow-up Shotter's Nation was the last hurrah
for the band, with Doherty moving on to release a solo album in 2009, Grace/ Wastelands, which saw him teaming up with Shotter's Nation producer Stephen Street and Blur guitarist Graham Coxon. No word yet on whether the original version, with Hugh Grant and Salma Hayek on vocal duties, will screen here in Finland, or only the Finnish-dubbed version.
Wrath of the Titans (K12) Release Date: 30 March Director: Jonathan Liebesman Starring: Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson Mirror Mirror (K7) Release Date: 30 March Director: Tarsem Singh Starring: Julia Roberts, Lily Collins Delicacy (Nainen, jonka nimi on Nathalie) (S) Release Date: 30 March Director: David and Stéphane Foenkinos Starring: Audrey Tatou, Francois Damiens Dr. This year boasts a line-up of 90 exhibitors for the three
TAKING
Helsinki Ink takes place at the Cable Factory from 30 March until 1 April.
days of tattoo celebration, along with a performance from Japanese dance performer Sanaxxx each day. Thomp-
son adaptation The Rum Diary finally hits screens here, after its release date was pulled at the last minute in November last year. A Dangerous Method sees David Cronenberg step even further away from his body horror beginnings, with this to visit The Tower of London to `see the lions washed'. Seuss' The Lorax (K7) Release Date: 30 March Director: Chris Renaud Starring: Zac Efron, Danny DeVito Rouva Presidentti (S) Release Date: 30 March Director: Aleksi Bardy Pirates! (K7) Release Date: 30 March Director: Peter Lord Starring: Aku Laitinen, Antti LJ Pääkkönen
Got ink?
HEL SINKI TIMES
For Pete's sake!
HEL SINKI TIMES
GATHERING
tattoo fans both local and from abroad for the 18th occasion, Helsinki Ink is being staged from 30 March until 1 April
KITCHEN 11-24 SAT 12-02 . "It's very easy to open another pizzeria; it's very easy to open another burger house. "At the same time it
was to prepare something that people are familiar with. f i. A candle burns in the kitchen, yet the air is not romantic as the two cooks scurry about in haste. After a brief glance at the Fafa's logo on the wall I wonder just how they came up with the name. "Falafel is vegetarian, but I wanted to offer other things than vegetarian. It's really juicy and it comes fresh; we fry it medium rare, chop it into slices and serve either with hummus and tahini, or offer Mediterranean flavours with tzatziki, fried eggplant and matbucha, a Moroccan tomato chilli paste (8.90 euros)." Chicken also figures on the menu, with chicken schnitzel and grilled chicken on offer at 8.50 euros each. (09) 694 4207 Mon-Fri 10.30-21.00 Sat 10.30-19.00 Sun 11.00-19.00
· T A M P E R E
A NEW BAR & BISTRO IN TOWN!
Come and check it out!
MONTHU 1121 FRISAT 1124 SUN 1120 RESERVATIONS: tel. A handful of customers wait patiently for their gas-cooked meals to be prepared but shouldn't falafels normally be deepfried. In short: get your falafel with tahini and salad (6.50 euros), tzatziki and halloumi (7.80), goat's cheese and pesto (7.80) or feta cheese, fried eggplants, kalamata olive paste, feta and tzatziki (8.20). "We develop our concepts and try to bring new things to the market," Karavani continues. Outside, six seats accommodate those brave enough to sit in the chilly air. Also, in `Fafa's' you can see the word `falafel'." "Also, nowadays there are brands like Farang, Fazer and Farouge," Walden chips in. For those seeking yet another variety of flavours, then sabich (7.80) could suffice: a pita stuffed with hummus, fried eggplant and boiled egg, salad, tahini and falafel. "When I designed this I thought of what would be a great place to have in New York, not Helsinki. Furthermore, if you don't wish to have pita with your meal, the majority of selections are avail-
able as a salad, along with a meze plate (8.90), with falafel, humus, eggplant, tabbouleh, salad, tomato, cucumber, matbucha and tzatziki. Yet people are still willing to wait, it seems, for a taste of freshly made falafel. After I take a sip of organic ginger beer (2.90) and dip my final piece of pita into a side dish of delicious hummus (2.50), the gentle hue of spices lingers in my mouth as I gather my things and prepare to leave. It's that good!
Fafa's Mon-Thu 11:00-21:00 Fri-Sat 11:00-05:00 Sun closed Iso Roobertinkatu 2 Helsinki
Taste the fuss And so, some 20 minutes later I am down to the final few bites of my plain falafel pita, and am somewhat surprised
The best falafel in town.
AFTER WORK
MON-FRI 16-19
0,3 l
PILSNER URQUELL
2,50
Eteläesplanadi 24 tel. When you look at Helsinki and Finland in general there's a lot of monopoly, there's not a lot of variety. It is definitely the best falafel I've tasted in town, crispy and with a soft centre. "We wanted to offer people something other than McDonald's," Karavani states." It's like a big party here at 4 am, which is really nice. m a n h a t t a n s t e a k h o u s e . HELSINKI TIMES
EAT & DRINK
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
19
HELEN HAWI
F for Fafa's
Serving your fast food fresh.
J A M E S O ' S U L L I VA N HEL SINKI TIMES
STANDING
in Fafa's on a Wednesday afternoon, I immediately sense that something is not right. There's no denying the fast and fresh experience on offer at Fafa's, so much so that I find myself returning to the small eatery on two separate occasions later in the week as a paying customer. Entrecote is the best part of the meat. They buy things ready-frozen and use the microwave." Fafa's serves around 150 people per day, a figure that seems all the more remarkable considering the tight space available. We have to differentiate ourselves so we look and taste different." Enjoying opening hours that coincide with the district's penchant for late night revelling on Friday and Saturday nights, Fafa's is open all through the night until 5 am on both Saturday and Sunday mornings. The lighting inside the Punavuori eatery is moody perhaps a little too much so. "When I came up with this concept, I didn't know how people would take it," Karavani recalls. "It means `grandfather' in Swedish. 010 832 2600 | email. We like to be creative and bring something new, that's what the market wants."
All in the name We are joined for a moment by the second of four co-owners, Osmo Walden, who is responsible for the look and design of the eatery. "The idea was to offer food prepared a fast way, with fresh ingredients," explains co-owner Doron Karavani. "Yes, the `F' is in!" Karavani deadpans, a split second before they both burst out laughing.
U Z I VA RO N
"With the price range and fast food that we have here, this is the best in Helsinki," Walden professes. 09 6981225, helsinki1@vapiano.fi, www.vapiano.fi MON-THU 11-24 . Aside from the two tables and eight chairs, the bench looking out over Iso Roba has room for another two. KITCHEN 11-23 FRI 11-02 . We don't want to compete with the same old places. "We were sitting together and Osmo came up with the name," Karavani explains. "You brought energy!" Karavani exclaims to his colleague, as the cook proceeds to fire up the deep fryer.
FIRST VAPIANO IN HELSINKI IS NOW OPEN! COME AND ENJOY!
FRESH DELICIOUS HEALTHY
VAPIANO HELSINKI MIKONKATU 15 tel. I grew up on falafel. "There are plenty of good restaurants in Helsinki, but nothing where you can just come, sit, go," Karavani observes. Soon it becomes apparent that there has been a power cut. Pleasantly, there is no sign of the heavy feeling typically experienced immediately after consuming fast food. There is nothing new in how we set up this place; we haven't copied anything, it is gourmet fast food."
that there are a further two falafel balls situated at the bottom of the pita. (09) 611 217 Mon-Tue 10.30-23.00 Wed-Sat 10.30-24.00 Sun 12.00-23.00
H E L S I N K I · L A H T I
Forum Mannerheimintie 20 tel. Suddenly the interior of the eatery is bathed in light,
Fafa's is located on Iso Roobertinkatu and serves roughly 150 people a day.
with the moment that the power is switched back on comically coinciding with the exact time that one of the workers walks through the door to commence her shift. cafe@flada13.fi Kalevankatu 13, Helsinki | www.flada13.fi
WESTON'S ORIGINAL 2,50
½ pint
SANTA ANA WINES
12 cl Eco Malbec or Eco torrontes Welcome!
2,50
BEST STEAKS IN TOWN Welcome!
w w w . On the streets of Tel Aviv you have falafel everywhere." Opened in December last year, the self-proclaimed gourmet fast food outlet has quickly risen to prominence on the local scene, with its range of Middle Eastern street foods earning a loyal following. KITCHEN 12-24 SUN 12-24 . KITCHEN 12-23
FREE WIFI
HELSINKI STOCKHOLM BERLIN NEW YORK PARIS LONDON WIEN TALLINN
Falafel on board A glance at the chalkboard hanging over the top of the service counter reveals a handful of variations on the same theme. "Fast food here sucks; the pizzerias and the fast food places are bad. Furthermore, the pita is soft and warm, without any signs of dryness, and all ingredients within are flavoursome and fresh
Delving a little deeper into the subject, the Mayo Clinic site is one of the more reliable sources, and suggests that antioxidants called polyphenols in wine protect the blood vessels surrounding the heart. Opening hours Mon-Fri 11am-11pm / Sat 4pm-11pm / Sun 1pm-5pm
Mechelininkatu 39-FIN 00250 Helsinki tel: +358(0) 9-440833 www.lehtovaararavintola.fi to the Sibelius Monument
Intimate Spanish style tapas restaurant.
Tapas BarCelona
WELCOME
e-mail: lehtovaara@lehtovaara.inet.fi
HI
L MA A
GROOVING BAR KITCHEN
Hits! Mon-Sat, Pianist Thu-Fri After Work time Burgers, lava stone grill specials Mon-Sat
Nepalese Cuisine
Since 1993
The Oldest Nepalese Restaurant in Finland
Open Mon-Fri 11-23, weekends 12-23, Lunch: Mon-Fri 11-15 Contact Ratakatu 1B, 00120 Helsinki. 12:00-23:00 sun.......... 12:00-22.00 tel/fax: 09-693 3010 e-mail: yetinep@gmail.com www.yetinepal.fi Itämerenkatu 12 Near Ruoholahti metro station
Et. Aged in French Barrique for 8 months, this is a powerful, impressive wine from an area which we don't usually associate with quality red wines. 10:30-22:00 fri............. Checking out the statistics, it seems that most Finns agree. Ripasso is a wine made from the leftover grapes of Amarone, which is famous for its full-bodied character and in-your-face appeal. Solo Passione Rosso Veronese, from Venice and made with typical varietals from the area such as Corvina/Rondinella at 9,99, gives you a plummy nose with a little chocolate on the palate and is quite full-bodied for a wine of this price. Studies show that it prevents against obesity and diabetes, both strong risk factors for heart disease. +358 9 611 077, +358 40 707 1140 www.satkar.fi
Lehtovaara is known for its warm atmosphere, friendly, appreciated service and delicious portions that indulge the taste buds. 135 4148 www.kolumbus.fi/zinnkeller
Fredrikinkatu 46 (Kamppi, Autotalo). 09 694 0750 Mon-Fri 11-23, Sat 12-23, Sun 12-22
www.ravintolatandoor.net
Wide selection of beers
taste & enjoy!
PUB GASELLI
Aleksanterinkatu 46 (courtyard)
SIR EINO PUB
Nepalese cuisine in Helsinki
A CLASSIC SINCE 1932
Lunch time 10:30-15:00 Opening hours mon-thu.. There also seems to be a link to reduction of inflammation and blood clotting, which are related to the same. Having said all that, there are few pleasures that can bring you as much relaxation and satisfaction as a decent glass of the red stuff. 00100 Helsinki, Finland Tel. The latter is usually quite expensive and Ripasso is obviously less so but it is seldom that you find a decent one at 11,89. Lehtovaara is famous for its high quality Finnish and international kitchen. Spring's well on its way but there's always room for a gulp of red wine in good company or as good company. Italy might be the fourth most popular country in red wine sales, but it has definitely dominated this month's selection. +358 9 6128 5200 mon-thu 11-24, fri 11-01, sat 13-01, sun 13-23 www.royalravintolat.com. This one's different and at a price of 11,89, it is satisfying and pleasing. 10:30-23:00 sat........... One in particular, resveratrol, is getting a lot of attention. Puh. Book your table tel. Verrocchio Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso 2009 is rounded and smooth with jam and cherries and yummy chewable tannins. In the good words of Benjamin Franklin, "Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance."
Das Lokal mit der besonderen Note
Neben Spezialitäten aus den verschiedenen Regionen servieren wir Ihnen Deutsche Biere und Weine
HERZLICH WILLKOMMEN
Nepalese Restaurant
The biggest Nepalese Restaurant in Helsinki · Suitable for group parties · Fully licensed · Delicious food with tandoor
Welcome to Satkar
Meritullinkatu 25, 00170 Helsinki. (09) 647 551, mob 040 7347 638 www.himalaya.fi
YA
NIGHT CLUB & Karaoke Fri-Sat ´til 04
Salomonkatu 19, Helsinki Tel. Terre Augustee 2009, made from Sangiovese/
Ciliegiolo/Syrah/Merlot at 8,85, is a mouthful of tannins but it does have some saving graces in that it's got a good deep fruity nose and then spiciness on the palate. Wine from this part of the world is often loaded with tanning, regardless of which region it comes from. Hence the huge selection and variety available at Alko these days. Good value for money and a good combination with game or heavy red meat dishes. The big surprise on the list is an organic product from Greece. In the first few months of 2012, it clearly is the drink of choice and surpasses even beer and strong spirits consumption by a large margin. From the well-known house of Tsantalis and cultivated by the monks of Mount Athos, Agathon Limnio Cabernet Sauvignon is a cuvée of the eponymous varietals. Hesperiankatu 22 tel. 20
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
EAT & DRINK
RESTAURANTS · PUBS · BARS RESTAURANTS · PUBS · BARS
HELSINKI TIMES
Red, round and robust
Early spring brings us a selection of muscular fruits of the vine.
V I O L E T TA T E E T O R HEL SINKI TIMES
THE BENEFITS of drinking red
wine in moderate quantities are well known and much discussed
Sat 31 Super Saturday! TERRACE NOW OPEN!! ROCK ON! Sun 1 April No Shoe Sunday! Come get fooled! Mon 2 - POKER NIGHT! Only 27 seats, register in bar! DONT BE LATE! From 7pm. HELSINKI TIMES
EAT & DRINK
RESTAURANTS · PUBS · BARS
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
21
RESTAURANTS · PUBS · BARS
RESTAURANTS · PUBS · BARS
Yrjönkatu 26, Helsinki, tel. 045 325 0850
Finnish Cuisine
"like my mother cooks"
Keskuskatu 6, Citykäytävä, Helsinki
Lapinlahdenkatu 3, 00180 Helsinki
oluthuone.com
NUMBER ONE FOR FANS!
· KAIVOKATU 8, HELSINKI (OPPOSITE THE CENTRAL RAILWAY STATION) · TEL. Fri 30 Thank FUNK its FRIDAY! DJ's from 9.30pm. Wed 4 LIVE MUSIC with "James Laschelles" from 10pm.
Come and have a Tooheys or two!
AUSSIE BAR Salomonkatu 5, Kamppi 00100 Helsinki, Finland Tel. +358 9 635 732 www.juuri.fi
Transforming Finnish gifts of nature in an innovative manner to suit modern tastes.
Proudly sponsored by:
The world of beer in all its glory
BEER HOUSE KAISLA
Vilhonkatu 4
Mon-Thu 1302, Fri-Sat 1303, Sun 1302
www.oluthuone.com
LET'S
ROLL
Open: 14-02 Sunday-Tuesday 12-03 Wednesday-Saturday
TO
Te n n i s p a l a t s i n a u k i o 4 - H e l s i n k i - o l u t h u o n e . c o m
WHAT'S ON AT THE AUSSIE BAR:
Thurs 29 DJ DIRTY 9.30pm plus cocktail specials 7-11pm. +358 9 4336 6330 omalleys.torni@sok.fi / www.omalleys.fi Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-1am Fri-Sat 2pm-2am, Sun closed
Two more pints please!
Ravintola Martta
Pohjoinen Makasiinikatu 7 mon-thu 11-22 fri 11-02 sat 12-02 Tel. +358 10 766 4300 SPORTSACADEMY.FI
THE LEADING NORDIC SPORTS RESTAURANT
Korkeavuorenkatu 27 Helsinki Tel. +358 (0)9 737 373 E-mail: aussiebar@aussiebar.net www.aussiebar.net
Bassment Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 21 Tickets 6 www.bassment.fi
Sat 31 March Cunninlynguists (USA), Tonedeff (USA) Hip hop. Ateneum Kaivokatu 2 Tue-Fri 10:00-18:00 Wed, Thu 10:00-20:00 Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Tickets 0/10/12 www.ateneum.fi
OTHERS
Thu 29 March-Sun 1 April Artichoke Film Festival Festival focusing on women on screen as directors, filmmakers and actresses. Semifinal Urho Kekkosen katu 4-6 Tickets 5/6 www.semifinal.fi
Nika Roza Danilova aka Zola Jesus.
MUSIC
Thu 29 March Pete Doherty (UK) Acclaimed British rock musician. Bar Loose Annankatu 21 Tickets 6/8 www.barloose.com Sat 31 March Club Balkan Fever: DJ SUPERSTEREO (HUN) Balkan beats. On Sunday 1 April, Tavastia will fill with the fascinating voice and appearance of this young "rara avis", whose music is a strange blend of electro, gothic rock, art pop and classical music. Savoy Theatre Kasarmikatu 46-48 Tickets 28 www.savoyteatteri.fi Tue 3 April Alejandro Vela (MEX): Piano concert, Etude Fantasies A Mexican pianist of international stature. Finnish National Opera Helsinginkatu 58 Tickets 14-77 www.opera.fi. Korjaamo Culture Factory Töölönkatu 51 B Tickets 23/25 www.korjaamo.fi Fri 30 March Harmaja Lyrics and melodies influenced by Finnish folk traditions. Zodiak Cable Factory Tallberginkatu 1 B Tickets 12/20 www.zodiak.fi Sat 31 March-Wed 4 April Tanssiteatteri ERI: Passio Dance piece depicting the suffering of Christ. Sun 1 April Tavastia Urho Kekkosen katu 4-6 Tickets 20/22 www.tavastiaklubi.fi
Fri 30 March- Sun 1 April Aki Suzuki Spirits: Giselle Noh-theatre interpretation of the ballet classic. Kuudes Linja, Hämeentie 13 Tickets 6 www.kuudeslinja.com Fri 30 March Melrose Classic rock. Kuudes Linja, Hämeentie 13 Tickets 17/20 www.kuudeslinja.com Thu 29 March Stam1na Metal. Korjaamo Culture Factory Töölönkatu 51 B Tickets 26/29 www.korjaamo.fi Sat 31 March Poets of the Fall Rock. In addition to cities, focus is also on individual living in a city. The Cable Factory Tallberginkatu 1 Tickets 8/10 www.helsinkivintage.fi
THEATRE & DANCE
Thu 29 March Susanna Leinonen Company: Blinded Mind Dance and visual arts performance which combines Leinonen's characteristically strong movement language, impressive costumes and unique music by Kasperi Laine. The Circus, Salomonkatu 1-3 Tickets 40-55 www.thecircus.fi Fri 30 March Kuullos Orchestra & Joakim Berghäll Jazzy moods and saxophones. Espoo Cultural Centre (Louhisali) Kaupinkalliontie 10 Tickets 18/30 www.espoo.fi Fri 30 & Sat 31 March La Bayadére One of the masterpieces of 19thcentury Russian ballet. Kuudes Linja Hämeentie 13 Tickets 15 www.kuudeslinja.com Sat 31 March The New Tigers Pop rock. Sibelius Academy, 19:00 Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 9 Free entry Wed 4 April Example (UK) British singer and rapper. Bar Loose, Annankatu 21 Tickets 10/12 www.barloose.com Fri 30 March UMO Rytmi: Stevie Wonder Night Key works of Stevie Wonder interpreted by Finland´s top soul musicians. Savoy Theatre Kasarmikatu 46-48 Tickets 34 www.savoyteatteri.fi
Fri 30 March Seminaarinmäen Mieslaulajat Energetic male choir. In 2009, Danilova released her homemade debut album The Spoils. Korjaamo Culture Factory Töölönkatu 51 B Tickets 7-9 www.korjaamo.fi Fri 30 March 1974 Tribute to Abba Abba classics performed by the 1974 band. Korjaamo Culture Factory Töölönkatu 51 B Tickets 32/35 www.korjaamo.fi Thu 29 March Church of Misery (JPN) Doom metal with gloomy lyrics. Tavastia Urho Kekkosen katu 4-6 Tickets 17/19 www.tavastiaklubi.fi Thu 29 March Rusalka Richard Jones' reading of Dvoak's best-known opera. Stoa Turunlinnantie 1 Tickets 15-18 www.stoa.fi Sat 31 March & Sun 1 April The Spring Recital of the FNO Ballet School Alexander Theatre Albertinkatu 32 Tickets 8/15 www.opera.fi Sat 31 March & Sun 1 April Liisu Risu: Huono (Fail) Dance piece based on The Piano Teacher (1983), Elfriede Jelinek's incisive novel portraying sexuality, sadism, power and a twisted mother-daughter relationship. The next year, her second full-length album Stridulum II received a positive review in the music magazine NME, which praised Danilova´s classically trained voice as "the deadliest weapon in her arsenal" and called the album a "dark masterpiece". Bar Loose Annankatu 21 Tickets 6/8 www.barloose.com Wed 4 April Rödsögården Rock. 22
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
WHERE TO GO
COMPILED BY ANNA-MAIJA LAPPI
HELSINKI TIMES
Beautiful oddity
Nika Roza Danilova, one of the most remarkable new American artists and better known by her stage name Zola Jesus (USA), is visiting Finland for the first time. Sello Hall Soittoniekanaukio 1 (Espoo) Tickets 15 www.espoo.fi
EXHIBITIONS
Until Sun 22 April Lauri Laine: Paintings of Light and Space The retrospective exhibition presents Laine's paintings from the mid-1980s to the present. Bio Rex/Maxim Mannerheimintie 22-24/Kluuvikatu 1 Tickets 5/8 www.artisokka.info Fri 30 March-Sun 1 April Helsinki Ink 2012 International tattoo convention. As a teenager, Danilova was studying opera and classical music and being inspired by alternative artists such as Diamanda Galás, Throbbing Gristle and Joy Division at the same time. Tavastia Urho Kekkosen katu 4-6 Tickets 18/20 www.tavastiaklubi.fi Sat 31 March White Hills (USA) Space rock. Korjaamo Culture Factory Töölönkatu 51 B Tickets 8/10 www.korjaamo.fi Wed 4 April Stella Pop rock from Eastern Finland. She started buying voice lesson tapes and opera sheet music at the age of seven, and soon, after imploring her parents, began working with a vocal coach. Virgin Oil CO. Nosturi, Telakkakatu 8 Tickets 12 www.elmu.fi Fri 30 March Darkroom # 9 Addictive house/techno club. Le Bonk Music Machine Yrjönkatu 24 Tickets 8 www.lebonk.fi Sat 31 March Progressive Music Evening Esa Kotilainen, Strandberg Project and Paidarion. Kunsthalle Helsinki Nervanderinkatu 3 Tue, Thu, Fri 11:00-18:00 Wed 11:00-20:00 Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Tickets 0/5.50/8 www.taidehalli.fi Until Sun 22 / 29 April HPB12: No Exit -Urban Space / No Exit -Urban Being Helsinki Photography Biennial 2012 offers perspectives on the kind of urban space we construct for ourselves and the changes that are taking place in cities across the world. Stoa Turunlinnantie 1 Tickets 12/20 www.stoa.fi Sat 31 March & Sun 1 April Chisu Brilliant Finnish pop. Kuudes Linja Hämeentie 13 Tickets 25 www.kuudeslinja.com Sat 31 March The Zombies (UK) Psychedelic rock. The Cable Factory Tallberginkatu 1 Tickets 15/18/22 www.helsinki-ink.fi Sun 1 April Helsinki Vintage Vintage culture "hulabaloo". Vuotalo Mosaiikkitori 2 Tickets 14/16 www.vuotalo.fi Fri 30 March Club Indian Summer New indie disco club night. Her accomplished third album, Conatus (2011), is a beautiful, dramatic struggle between dark and light, hope and despair. Kaivopiha Mannerheimintie 5 Tickets 8 www.virginoil.fi Fri 30 March Symphonic Metal Night: Amberian Dawn, Kivimetsän druidi, Brymir Symphonic metal. Raised in the forested hinterlands of Wisconsin by Russian-American parents, Danilova started her musical journey at an early age. Helsinki Music Centre, 19:00 Concert Hall Mannerheimintie 13 Tickets 6-25 www.musiikkitalo.fi Fri 30 March DDT (RUS) Russian rock. Tavastia Urho Kekkosen katu 4-6 Tickets 15/17 www.tavastiaklubi.fi Wed 4 April Iiris (EST) Unique pop. Hakasalmi Villa / Sederholm House Mannerheimintie 13 / Aleksanterinkatu 18 Wed-Sun 11:00-17:00 Thu 11:00-19:00 Free entry Until Sun 29 April Carl Larsson: In Search of the Good Life Exhibition of one of Sweden's most beloved artists includes over a hundred paintings, and it also presents Carl and Karin Larsson as designers of furniture and art handicrafts. Nosturi Telakkakatu 8 Tickets 19-29 www.elmu.fi Wed 4 April Den Svenska Björnstammen (SWE) Pop. Finnish National Opera Helsinginkatu 58 Tickets 14-77 www.opera.fi
Thu 29 March HPO: Meta4 One of the most internationally successful Finnish string quartets
Germany/2008. Starring: Robert De Niro, Cybill Shepherd, Jodie Foster. Jason is shocked with Chrystal's plan and the witch coven is making the vampires shifty. 22:50 Geordie Shore 23:50 Kung Fu Killer (K16) FILM Directed by Philip Spink. 17:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. 08:55 Marienhof In German. Mexico's president has declared a war to the drug cartel led by Barillo (Willem Dafoe) who in his turn has turned to General Marquez (Gerardo Vigil) to overthrow the president. 00:30 Ghost Adventures 01:30 The X Files
TV2
06:50 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 02:20 Oz (K16)
TV2
06:50 Children's Programming In Finnish. Based on Charles Dickens' classic novel. 00:30 4D: The 27 Inch Man 01:25 Black Dynamite (K16) FILM Spiced with humour this action packed film tells the story of Black Dynamite (Michael Jai White), one man's army who is going to revenge his little brother's murder. 15:00 Red Bull Cliptomaniacs 15:30 Flipping Out SEASON FINALE. Sookie isn't happy with Eric and asks help from Bill who's now the King of Louisiana. 23:05 Conan the Barbarian (K16) FILM Directed by John Milius. 01:35 72 hours: True Crime (K16) 02:00 Paranormal State 02:30 Unschuldig (K16) In German. HELSINKI TIMES
TV GUIDE
Helsinki Times T V Guide offers a selection of English and other language broadcasting on Finnish television.
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
23
thursday
TV1
10:00 11:05 12:35 17:08
29.3.
MTV3
10:05 Emmerdale Two episodes. He realizes the trap on the last minute and Kate's destiny seems to be sealed.
Deception Nelonen 22:00 07:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 07:00 Airline 08:00 That 70's show 08:50 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:15 Jon & Kate Plus 8 13:10 X-Weighted 14:05 Jon & Kate Plus 8 14:35 King of Queens 15:05 Relic Hunter 16:00 Airline 16:30 America's Funniest Home Videos 17:30 My wife and kids 18:00 That 70's show 19:00 The King of Queens 19:30 3rd Rock from the Sun 20:30 Blackadder The Third 21:00 Long Weekend (K16) FILM Directed by Pat Holden. 17:10 Wild at Heart 19:00 Kingdom Hidden motives. 13:00 Doctors 14:00 Jamie's Food Escapes SERIES FINALE. 21:30 Snow Cake FILM A touching film in which a car accident forms a unique friendship between an exconvict and an autistic woman. 22:55 Human Trafficking (K16) Part 4/4. 19:00 David Copperfield Part 4/4. 03:15 Melrose Place
SUB
08:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. Starring: Woody Harrelson, Kristin ScottThomas. 01:05 Sensing Murder 02:10 WC-Racing: Portugal SPORT 10:05 13:00 14:05 15:05 17:05 18:00
NELONEN
Wild at Heart Yle News In English Last of the Summer Wine Figure Skating WC SPORT 19:00 As Time Goes By 22:00 Figure Skating WC SPORT 23:25 Stuart: A Life Backwards (K16) DOC What can turn a small child into a violent drug addict. Directed by Scott Sanders. Phil 22:00 Deception FILM Hot thriller of a New Yorkian auditor McQuarry (Ewan McGregor) who's life is turned upside down when he meets mysterious and charismatic Wyatt (Hugh Jackman). In the heart of the film there is a mysterious quitarhero El Mariachi (Antonio Banderas) who is currently retired from his career as a hitman. Starring: Michael Jai White, Tommy Davidson. Starring: Alan Rickman, Sigourney Weaver. Soon McQuarry is also tangled in the web of lies looming over the club. Steve is terrified because he has yet to meet them.
SUB
08:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. 08:49 Flying Doctors 11:10 Die Swarzwaldklinik In German. Clouds on paradise. This visually engaging actionfilm combines a handful of Hollywood's finest. 02:50 Geordie Shore 03:40 Relic Hunter
YLE TEEMA
17:00 Gérard Depardieu: Une Force Qui Va DOC In French. Starring: Johnny Depp, Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Mickey Rourke, Eva Mendes, Enrique Iglesias. USA/2007. Beatrice is having a ball playing a homemaker while Lyle is ready for new challenges. USA/Canada/2008. 21:00 The Young Ones DOC Part 5/5. How are aging and old people seen in Britain?
TV5
06:30 How'd You Get So Rich. The Pacific Ocean's fish stock is in danger because of the new fishing methods. In the midst of it all there is also El Mariachi's gorgeous wife (Salma Hayek). The profilers conclude that the murderer only kills when there's a tornado and the forecast says there will be more of them. If the participants really feel younger, how can the results be assessed with scientific methods. 23:20 Numb3rs (K16) 00:20 Long Weekend (K16) FILM Directed by Pat Holden. 22:05 Figure Skating WC SPORT
TV5
06:30 Blackadder The Third 07:00 Airline 08:00 That 70's show 08:50 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:15 Jon & Kate Plus 8 12:45 Love.com FILM In German. As often happens, Depp steals the show and even the trilogy's main character, El Mariachi, is pushed back.
Taxi Driver
A classic drama from 1976 that was nominated for four Oscars. 11:05 Yle News in English 12:35 Last of the Summer Wine 16:00 Human Planet DOC Part 3/8. USA/1976. Directed by Martin Scorsese with Robert de Niro starring as the taxi driver. UK/Canada/USA/2005. France/2008. In the aftermath of a tornado there are two teenagers bodies found with body parts missing. 08:55 Marienhof In German. A scientist makes friends with Stuart, who's leading a tough life and ends up writing an unusual biography of him.
Long Weekend T V5 21:00 07:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 19:00 Lost Kingdoms of Africa DOC Part 1/4. It's time for the review of the experiment. Sarah is doing Jury Duty but Lance doesn't have to worry because the temp is pretty as a button and she has taken a liking to Lance. 03:50 Relic Hunter
YLE TEEMA
18:30 Design: Sacco Chaise DOC In French. 22:35 Hockey Night SPORT 22:45 WC-racing: Portugal Racing Extra SPORT 22:55 The Walker FILM Directed by Paul Schrader. Peter is finally free from his brother's tragedy and the house is filled with life. 23:20 Wild Thing (K16) DOC France/2010.
JIM
12:15 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 13:35 Airline 14:05 JIM D biography: Justin Timberlake 15:05 Dragon's Den 16:00 Pawn 16:30 Ultimate Tourist Scams 17:00 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Part 2/2. Nubia. UK/ Canada/USA/2005. 16:30 Marienhof In German. USA/1982. Starring: Paul Campbell, Kristina Copeland, Moneca Delain, Brendan Fehr. 18:30 Bullrun 21:00 JIM D Rikos: Beyond Scared Straight (K16) 22:00 Cowboy Builders 00:30 Fifth Gear 01:00 Jack Osbourne Adrenaline Junkie 02:00 Man Hunters: Fugitive Task Force 02:30 Naked and Funny Two episodes.
JIM
12:20 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 13:40 Airline 14:10 Extreme Fishing 15:05 Dragon's Den 16:05 Pawn Stars 16:30 Ultimate Tourist Scams 17:00 Extreme Makover: Home Edition 18:00 Dragon's Den 19:30 South Park 21:00 JIM D History: Brad Meltzer's decoded 22:00 Rude Tube (K16) 23:00 South Park 23:30 Naked & Funny 00:00 JIM D: Candy Day 01:30 Pawn Stars
Programmes on Yle Teema may be viewed in the original language(s) by changing the digital receiver's settings.
The Walker MT V3 22:55
Once Upon a Time in Mexico
Rodriguez's "Mariachi" trilogy's final part. 19:00 The King of Queens 19:30 3rd Rock from the Sun 21:00 Taxi Driver (K16) FILM Directed by Martin Scorsese. Canada/2006. He has a very atypical view on right and wrong thus his actions may seem peculiar at best. 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 Will & Grace 19:00 Friends 19:30 American Idol 20:30 The Simpsons 22:30 C.S.I. The only sparks of light in his own life are gorgeous presidential campaign worker Betsy he is head over heels in love with, and a 12-year-old runaway Iris he is hell-bent on saving.
Nelonen 22:00
TV5 21:00. 00:30 It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia 01:00 Bones 01:55 Ghost Adventures
10:00 South Pacific DOC Part 6/6. Starring Josh Stewart. 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 American Idol 20:30 Simpsons 22:30 Breakout Kings SERIES BEGINS. Directed by Marcel Langenegger. 15:05 Build a New Life in the Country 16:05 Extreme Makover: Home Edition Part 2/2. Wyatt intoduces him to the so called The Listsex club. Distressed by the state of the metropolis he's decided to try and do his part in making the city a better place to live in. 08:55 Pitchin' In 09:25 Travel with Kids 10:30 Makeover Wish 13:00 Travel with Kids 14:05 Makeover Wish 14:35 Fresh with Anna Olson SEASON BEGINS. Sergei's group takes the bait and Kate gets face-to-face with the boss. Lonely Travis (De Niro) drives a night shift at the fringe of the city. 08:55 Fresh with Anna Olson 09:25 Travel with Kids 10:30 Makeover Wish 13:00 Travel with Kids 14:05 Makeover Wish 14:35 Fresh with Anna Olson 15:05 Gary Unmarried 15:35 Everybody Hates Chris 16:05 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 17:10 Accidentally on Purpose 17:45 Dr. USA/2009. 11:55 Lonely Planet 15:50 Fifure Skating WC SPORT 17:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. USA/2008. Anna is cooking her favourite slowly cooking foods: country style ribs with a cut of pork short-ribs in a stewlike Italian-style sauce, a vegetable tagine and as a dessert baked apple almond cake. Directed by Marc Evans. 21:00 House SEASON BEGINS. Directed by Oliver Dommenget. 14:00 My Life As an Animal DOC 15:00 Red Bull Cliptomaniacs 15:30 Flipping Out 16:30 Marienhof In German. CIA agent (Johnny Depp) who has gone roque plans to hire El Mariachi to stop druglord Barrillo's plans. Only Gloria is feeling blue. Starring: Paul Campbell, Kristina Copeland. Starring: Ewan McGregor, Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams. 20:30 Free Radio The Temp. Being a Vietnam War Veteran has caused insomnia and he can't sleep during the day either so he spends his days in sleazy movie theatres watching porn flicks. Mexico/USA/2003. 12:55 Yoga 16:15 Heartland 17:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, James Earl Jones, Max von Sydow, Sandahl Bergman. 22:05 True Blood (K16) You Smell Like Dinner. 15:05 Middle 17:05 The Young and the Restless 18:00 Emmerdale Two episodes. 02:35 UEFA Europa League Highlights SPORT
friday
NELONEN TV1
30.3.
MTV3
Emmerdale Doctors Find My Family UK Rita Rocks The Young and the Restless Emmerdale Two episodes. 30-yearold widower Eva and her divorced mother get tangled in the midst of online dating. 22:00 Once Upon a Time in Mexico (K16) FILM Directed by Robert Rodriguez. Starring: Annette Frier, René Steinke, Teresa Harder. 00:25 Frasier 00:55 Married...With Children 01:25 Cleaner (K16) SEASON FINALE. 17:10 Married...With Children 21:00 Criminal Minds (K16) There's no place like home. 14:35 King of Queens 15:05 Live to Dance 16:00 Airline 16:30 America's Funniest Home Videos 17:30 My Wife and Kids 18:00 That 70's show Two episodes. Directed by Pierre-André Boutang and Pierre Philippe. 08:49 Flying Doctors 11:10 Die Schwarzwaldklinik In German. 17:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. 23:00 Becky & Steve The Fridge is broken and Becky's parents have promised to repair it. 14:00 My Life As An Animal SERIES BEGINS. When she threatens to get in his way things take a turn for worse. 20:30 The Prankster Part 2/6
12:00 The Zoo Two episodes. USA/2001. 12:50 Hermanito DOC In French. Starring: Rob Lowe, Lauren Holly, Michelle Hurd. They're given free reigns to capture criminals with any means they see fit. 23:55 Big Love 01:05 Cleaner (K16) 02:05 Desperate Housewives
TV2
07:45 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 12:00 Getting On 12:30 Dino Stampede DOC 13:50 Gilmore Girls 15:05 Making Mao DOC 16:00 Miss Marple Part 1/2. USA/2009. In Mexico doctors and traditional healers often work side by side. Starring: Rachel HurdWood, Jason Isaacs. 02:10 WC Racing: Portugal SPORT
sunday
NELONEN TV1
1.4.
MTV3
07:40 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 19:40 Midsomer Murders Part 1/2. USA/Canada/2009. Directed by Marie Arnaud. 13:00 Animal Rescue 15:25 Waverly Place Wizards 15:55 Open Season FILM In Finnish. Starring: Chris Evans. 17:10 We Built the Titanic DOC Part 5/5. As most films in which Audrey Hepburn was casted this one too has received a cult status. Their older brother Ben(Raymond Goode) is unable to look after them and leaves them with a couple named Goode to take care of them. USA/2008. 00:10 Child Frozen in Time DOC 01:10 Supernatural 02:05 Sober House
SUB
13:45 Red Bull Cliptomaniacs 14:15 Will & Grace 17:15 American Idol Two episodes. Made in 1957 and directed by Stanley Donen this romantic feel-good musical comedy is still just as fine as it was back when it was made. 11:15 At the End of My Leash 13:45 Hope Floats FILM Touching drama on a woman, who has to find her new place in the world. After giving it a thought McGarrett takes the chance. She is at first reluctant to become a model and her attitude matches her opinion. Directed by Roger Allers, Jill Culton and Anthony Stacchi. Alex O'Loughlin (The Back-up Plan, The Shield), Scott Caan (Ocean's Eleven, What Lies Beneath), Daniel Dae Kim (Lost) and Grace Park (Battlestar Galactica) are seen in the leading roles. USA/1998. Steve McGarrett returns to Hawaii to hunt down the men who killed his father. USA/2002. 12:55 Frasier Four episodes. Part 2/2. Starring: Bruce Willis. 17:00 Big Bang Theory 17:30 2 Broke Girls 19:55 Mythbusters 21:00 Sunshine FILM Sci-Fi story of a group of men and women in a spaceship on a mission to revive the sun. Direcetd by Norma Bailey. USA/2003. Were there enough lifeboats at the Titanic and what kind of life vests were there for the passengers. Locals introduce Anthony to San Francisco's drinking culture and the following day he gets to take a look at the fast food culture. 22:50 Breakout Kings SERIES BEGINS. USA/1976. Ten years ago a woman was blamed for killing her husband while under hypnosis. USA/2005.
TV5
07:20 Airline 08:20 That 70's show Two episodes. Rock manager Angus Vail dives into New York's food culture and looks for its Irish roots. 19:00 Mobbed 21:00 Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (K16) FILM Vampires and werewolves are again on warpath. 22:30 WC Racing: Portugal Racing Extra SPORT 22:45 Die Hard 2 (K16) FILM Directed by Renny Harlin. Starring: Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire. 20:30 Design: Lego Bloc DOC In French. 20:00 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover San Francisco. 22:00 Big C (K16) 22:30 New Tricks Magic Majestic. In this documentary his road to success is under scrutiny. Starring: Geena Davis. Directed by Patrick Tatopoulos. 23:20 Navy NCIS 00:25 Ring of Death (K16) FILM Directed by Bradford May. Starring: Tyron Leitso, Wentworth Miller, Katie Carr. Starring: Aesop Aquarian. A Fashion photographer Dick Avery (Fred Astaire) takes a shy but gorgeous girl Jo Stockton (Audrey Hepburn) from a bookstore in Greenwich Village to Paris while trying to make a top model out of her. 14:50 Everybody Hates Chris 15:20 Accidentally on Purpose 15:50 Life Unexpected 21:00 The Twilight Saga: New Moon FILM Directed by Chris Weitz. 11:50 Ski Jumping SPORT 14:55 Nordic Combined SPORT 16:12 EURO2012: Football SPORT 16:40 Figure Skating WC SPORT 20:45 Figure Skating WC SPORT 22:14 Figure Skating WC SPORT
YLE TEEMA
11:30 Cuéntame Cómo Pasó In Spanish. 23:45 Cops With Cameras 00:45 Sensing Murder 01:40 Rock of Love 02:35 Rock of Love SEASON FINALE.
JIM
08:40 Fifth Gear 09:40 New York City Food Irish miracles. Directed by Rachel Boynton. Solving the case isn't as easy as it seems and even disbelieving Gerry is hypnotised during the investigation but everyone refuses to talk about what happened when he was under hypnosis.
George Harrison: Living in the Material World YLE Teema 21:00 08:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. Hawaii's governor asks him to establish his own special state task force on the island. France/2006. In the first episode Jean Smart (Frasier, 24, Samantha Who?) is making a guest appearance.
Funny Face
This film is loosely based on a 1927 Broadway musical production of the same name. Food Syracuse. 22:00 American Chopper 23:00 Cowboy Builders 00:00 World's Toughest Fixes 01:00 JIM D Crime: Beyond Scared Straight (K16)
TV2
07:45 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 17:00 Parenthood 17:55 National Geographic: Forever Young DOC 19:20 WC-Racing: Portugal Racing Extra SPORT 21:00 Revenge 22:35 Rubicon 23:35 Without a Trace 00:35 WC-racing: Portugal SPORT
NELONEN
08:05 Human Planet DOC Part 3/8. 10:55 Football Highlights SPORT 11:25 UEFA Europa League Highlights SPORT 15:00 Shrek FILM In Finnish. Hawaii's governor gives him free reigns and allows him to establish his own special unit. Slowly she warms to the idea though and things begin to go smoother. 21:00 JIM D Biography: Clark Gable A look into Clark Gable's rise from a small town boy to a Hollywood-star- and the numerous relationships with women that coloured his journey. 17:05 JIM D History: Brad Meltzer's Decoded 18:00 Invite Mr Wright Comedy in Malaysia. Silent Beatle had the time to lead many lives. 18:45 Cheetah The Price of Speed DOC Gnus populating the Southern Serengeti savannah are cheetahs' favourite prey. 17:45 Believe or Not 23:35 Hawaii Five-0 SERIES BEGINS. Starring: Jordan Hinson, Angie Harmon, Joel Gretsch, Jason London, Bobby Coleman. 23:15 Badass! (K18) 23:45 Kinky Pleasures (K18) 01:25 Tax Driver (K16) FILM Directed by Martin Scorsese. 16:05 Dangerous Encounters with Brady Barr Wild Wild West. Antes morir que perder la vida. Directed by Martin Scorsese.
JIM
10:05 Dinner Impossible 11:25 JIM D Biography: Nicolas Cage Actor Nicholas Cage is known for his personal and unique roles. 15:30 Globe Trekker Mali Art Wolfe familiarizes himself with Mali's Sahara Desert and the gorgeous buildings along the Niger River. 19:00 Man vs. 14:00 Two and a Half Men Three episodes. 16:15 Gridlock DOC 17:10 Une Village Français In French. The fateful night's biggest heroes were the men handling the pumps until the very end. 18:00 David Copperfield Part 4/4. 15:30 World Palooza 16:00 Friday Night Lights SEASON FINALE. USA/Canada/2008.
YLE TEEMA
16:20 The Young Ones DOC Part 5/5. 10:55 Animal Rescue Two episodes. 21:00 JIM D: Ancient Aliens 22:00 World's Toughest Fixes 00:00 Penn & Teller (K16) 01:05 Destination Truth 02:00 Naked and Funny (K16) Two episodes.
Too Late to Say Goodbye T V5 17:10
Cutthroat Island T V5 21:00
Hawaii Five-0
A remake of the 1968-1980 series with the same name. 15:35 Live to Dance 17:00 Breaking The Magician's Code: Magic's Biggest Secrets Finally Revealed 17:55 Peter Pan FILM Directed by P.J. Starring: Robert De Niro, Cybill Shepherd, Jodie Foster, Albert Brooks, Harvey Keitel. USA/1995. 23:20 Our Brand Is Crisis DOC Documentary on American political consultants and their work on Bolivian presidential elections in 2003. Directed by Danny Boyle. USA/1957. USA/1990. 21:55 Wire in the Blood (K16) Tony Hill is so closely involved in a case that he hasn't got enough time to worry about the cannibal murderer's escape plan. Directed by Forest Whitaker Starring: Sandra Bullock. Jenson. 00:35 Glass House - The Good Mother (K16) FILM A stand-alone sequel to the first part is kicked into action when teenaged Abby (Jordan Hinson) and Ethan's (Bobby Coleman) parents die. 01:15 Saving Grace Part 13/14. 10:40 Dinner Impossible 11:30 American Chopper 13:20 JIM D Biography: Nicolas Cage 14:20 Shark Tank 15:10 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations Food Porn Part 2. In each episode they're investigating a case while there are other, longer lasting stories ongoing in the background. The plot itself is simple enough but as often in this kind of movies it isn't the main focus.
Nelonen 23:35
YLE Teema 18:00. 15:55 Badminton Finnish Open SPORT 17:00 Figure Skating WC SPORT 21:00 Boardwalk Empire (K16) 22:15 Becky & Steve
SUB
12:00 Friends Four episodes. Hogan. 11:15 L'Instit In French. 02:00 Call Me Fitz 02:55 Kung Fu Killer (K16) FILM Directed by Philip Spink Starring: David Carradine. 21:00 George Harrison: Living in the Material World DOC Youth idol, mystic, guitarist, film producer, Formula fan, benefactor, spouse, friend, father. UK/2007. 03:25 Navy NCIS
TV5
08:55 Airline 09:25 The King of Queens 12:50 Adventures of Dinotopia FILM Directed by Marco Brambilla. 16:45 Strongman Champions Leaguen SPORT 18:00 Top Gear USA 20:00 Amazing Race 21:00 Terra Nova Part 10/13. He also visits the Dogons and The Great Mosque of Djenné finally ending his journey in Timbuktu. 21:00 The Genius of Design DOC Part 5/5. Safety first. Part 1/2. USA/2006. 09:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 12:35 X-Weighted 13:30 Packed to the Rafters 14:25 Cupcake Girls 14:55 The OCD Project 15:50 Psychic Challenge International 17:10 Too Late to Say Goodbye FILM Based on a true story of a murdering doctor who's trying to keep up appearances the best he can. Hermanito is one of the best known healers. 24
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
TV GUIDE
HELSINKI TIMES
saturday
TV1
31.3.
MTV3
07:50 Childrens Programming In Finnish. Directed by Steve Antin. Is this a fateful mistake?
Hope Floats MTV3 13:45 08:00 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 09:55 Animal Planet SERIES FINALE. USA/2006.
08:05 Cheetah The Price of Speed DOC 11:15 L'Instit In French. Steve McGarrett returns to Hawaii to hunt down the men who killed his father. 12:25 JIM D History: Ancient Discoveries 13:20 JIM D: Life After People 15:05 Shark Tank 16:00 Bondi Rescue 16:30 New York City Food 18:00 Weird or What. Starring: Rhona Mitra, Michael Sheen, Bill Nighy USA/New Zealand/2009. Malaysian stand-up comedian engages Ian in a stand-up duel. Cheetah mother has her paws full with trying to feed her babies and at the same time make sure that while she's hunting they won't be eaten by other predators. 13:45 Gilmore Girls 16:00 Miss Marple Part 3/3. Even though they're keeping up perfect appearance the life at Goode's is a nightmare and Abby is convinced that their new mother Eve (Angie Harmon) is trying to poison Ben. Starring: Kristen Stewart,Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner. 18:00 Funny Face FILM Directed by Stanley Donen. 20:00 Navy NCIS 21:00 Cutthroat Island (K16) FILM Directed by Renny Harlin
17:30 My wife and kids 18:00 That 70's show Two episodes. 00:30 JIM D Biography: Clark Gable 01:30 Naked and Funny (K16) 02:30 Pawn Stars
JIM
12:00 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. 08:55 Fresh with Anna Olson 09:25 Travel with Kids 10:30 Makeover Wish 13:00 Travel with Kids 14:05 Makeover Wish 14:35 Fresh with Anna Olson 15:05 Build a New Life in the Country 16:05 Life Unexpected Love's in the air. I assumed that BB was pretty much the worst we'd get, and things couldn't get any worse. 21:00 Songman: The Untold Story of Jimmy Croce DOC Biography of 1970s singersongwriter Jim Croce and the aeroplane crash that silenced him but not his music. Now I'm all for a bit of fruitiness, but it doesn't necessarily make good TV. Turns out, I was wrong. But is her father like she had imagined. Imagining losing Doug makes her realize her feelings towards him but is it already too late. Thanks to Sub TV we are now able to watch a show that manages to be pathetically sexist, incredibly unintelligent, badly made, and usher in the beginning of the end for, oh, only the entire human race. Nowadays majority of the activists who were onboard live on an idyllic island in New Zealand. On the second part of the documentary the prophets discuss oil crisis, problems regarding artificial intelligence and the threat of nuclear terrorism. I don't know, but I'm assuming it's a chance for Sub TV, purveyors of all things lowbrow, to flash some flesh on prime-time TV, titillating middle-aged dads and imbuing our young women with false notions of femininity, and so on, etc. 01:30 Naked and Funny (K16) 02:30 Pawn Stars
TV5
06:35 Around the World for Free 07:50 The Little Couple 13:05 Peter Pan FILM Directed by P.J. USA/2008. 22:00 Sex and the City Two episodes. 23:25 Frasier 23:55 Married... 22:05 Winners & Losers Sophie is celebrated as a hero. New York (K16) 00:25 Donor Unknown DOC 20-year-old Jo Ellen Marsh has two mothers. 17:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. 23:50 Numb3rs (K16) 00:40 Badass! (K18) 02:30 Relic Hunter
JIM
13:45 Airline 14:15 Dinner Impossible 15:10 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover 16:05 Invite Mr Wright 17:00 Man vs. But who does Amy really put her trust on and how has Caleb and Ashley's honeymoon gone. 22:30 Did Cooking Make Us Human?
Addicted to Food Sharon's Story Nelonen 22:00 07:00 Childens Programming In Finnish. I know! The basic premise is that a bunch of people you've never heard of are left in a jungle for a few weeks to survive by occasionally being put through their paces in ordeals involving eating disgusting things with more legs than I've had hot dinners. If you're British you might know I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, on which this version is based. 17:30 My wife and kids 18:00 That 70's show Two episodes. Starring: Will Smith. Starring: Rachel HurdWood, Jason Isaacs. Jungles. 19:00 The King of Queens 19:30 3rd Rock from the Sun 20:30 Little Britain 21:05 Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist FILM It has been 3 weeks, 2 days and 23 hours since Tris left Nick. Starring: Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal. The programme tests the six participants' physical and mental ability to overcome their fears. 16:15 Heartland 17:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. Sharon's family has a different tale to be told about a woman who first ate herself all the way to 285 kilos and then starved herself to death. The mind boggles. She has since found a new boyfriend and when Nick meets Norah he agrees to go on a date with her. 19:00 Un Village Français In French. Here we have, amongst others, Miss Finland 2011, Matti Nykänen's fiancée and some girl who was on Big Brother twice. 11:55 The Rainbow Warriors of Waiheke Island France's secret service sank Greenpeace's famous Rainbow Warrior trawler in 1985. 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 Will & Grace 19:00 Friends 19:30 Two and a Half Men 20:00 Big Bang Theory Sheldon's students are making fun of his dry lectures so Penny agrees to help him improve them. Directed by Peter Sollett. 15:00 Dragon's Den 16:00 Pawn Stars 16:30 Ultimate Tourist Scams 17:00 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 18:00 Dragon's Den 19:30 South Park 21:00 JIM D: Prophets of Doom Part 2/2. 19:00 Cuéntame Cómo Pasó In Spanish. Are the prophets able to agree on what's the worst threat to the humankind. Ha pasado un ángel. 08:55 Marienhof In German. A few years ago even watching an episode of Big Brother would be enough to drive me into a depressed funk for days on end. 22:00 Carlos (K16) DOC Part 1/6. The Netherlands/2009. 17:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. Happily, judging by the lead-in to the show, in most episodes we're going to be see some mud wrestling, quivering bosoms, half-naked beauties covered in insects (not sure about that one), and some accidental nipple flashes! It's almost like Janet Jackson's infamous Superbowl experience all over again, if it were being produced by the Teletubbies. I should warn you now, this country's version is even worse than the British one. Susan finds out who's Julie's baby's father. 23:00 South Park 23:30 Fear Factor 00:30 JIM D Crime: Cold Case Files (K16) Fingerprint Connects. USA/2005. The only people who should be sent to the jungle are the amateurs who made it.
Viidakon Tähtöset on Sub TV, Thursdays at 21:00.. Cate and Ryan's wedding day is drawing near. 23:25 5D: Love Me, Love My Doll (K16) Men living with dolls. Starring: Michael Cera,Kat Dennings, Aaron Yoo. 14:00 My Life As An Animal: Dogs DOC 15:00 Flipping Out 15:55 Jamie's 30 Minute Meals 16:30 Marienhof In German. 20:30 18 to Life 21:35 Football UEFA Champions League SPORT 23:50 EURO2012: Football SPORT 00:20 Football UEFA Champions League SPORT
YLE TEEMA
17:00 Lost Kingdoms of Africa DOC Part 2/4: Ethiopia. Viidakon tähtöset (Stars in the Jungle) is yet another show that's been nicked from elsewhere, crammed full of Finnish nonentities and thrown uncaringly onto our screens, presumably to suffer through one season before I sincerely hope it is mercifully euthanised. DOC How did people discover cooking food and is this invention what human race's success is based on. HELSINKI TIMES
TV GUIDE
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
25
monday
TV1
2.4.
MTV3
10:05 13:00 14:05 14:35 17:05 Emmerdale Doctors At the End of My Leash Bleep My Dad Says The Young and the Restless 18:00 Emmerdale 21:00 C.S.I. Food 18:00 Dragon's Den 19:30 South Park 20:00 The Crocodile Hunter 21:00 JIM D Crime: Cold Case Files (K16) Fingerprint connects. SEASON BEGINS. The writer knows the art of channel surfing.
Jungle isn't massive
It takes a lot, these days, to drive me to a state of despair, but Sub TV has done it. Venezuelan Ilich Ramírez Sánchez begins to take over the world by the means of terrorism. 17:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. The pride of the shipping company Titanic is leaving for its fateful maiden voyage from Sothampton. Finding any positive points is impossible. Best man or woman wins and gets 50 000 dollars. 21:00 Titanic Part 1/2. When the tragedy strikes is everyone on the same line. Miami 22:35 Closer 23:35 White Collar 00:30 Strongman Champions League SPORT
tuesday
NELONEN TV1
10:00 11:05 12:30 14:15 17:10 19:00
3.4.
MTV3
10:05 13:00 14:05 15:05 17:05 Emmerdale Doctors The Amazing Race Two and a Half Men The Young and the Restless 18:00 Emmerdale Two episodes. 16:15 Heartland Lou backs up Amy because the case Forrest summoned is threatening to ruin not only Amy's but the whole farm's reputation. Ben is in worse trouble than ever and Gaby finds a new strict babysitter. 01:40 My Life As An Animal: Pigs DOC
TV2
06:50 Childrens Programming In Finnish. Directed by Roland Emmerich. 13:10 Psychic Challenge International 14:05 Jon & Kate Plus 8 14:35 The King of Queens 15:05 Relic Hunter 16:00 Airline 16:30 America's Funniest Home Videos Two episodes. Im-
agine that the reason you're on a crappy reality show is because you've already been on another, equally crappy one twice before! Brilliant. 22:00 Rude Tube (K16) Craziest commercials. With Children 20:00 America's Next Top Model 21:00 Desperate Housewives Orson begins to organize a new life for Bree- a life without her old friends. A day before the wedding Cate's feelings towards Ryan and Baze are still mixed. Paris was soon to follow. 08:55 Fresh with Anna Olson 09:25 Travel with Kids 10:30 Makeover Wish 13:00 Travel with Kids 14:05 Makeover Wish 14:35 Fresh with Anna Olson 15:05 Build a New Life in the Country 16:05 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 17:10 Married... 20:00 The Genius of Design DOC Part 5/5.
Carlos YLE Teema 22:00
Titanic T V1 21:00
Nick Barlow nick@helsinkitimes.fi. 18:00 Doris Day, Superstar DOC Documentary on one of the best liked stars in Hollywood who became a gay icon. She gets interested in her roots and tracks down her father, donor number 150. New York (K16) 01:50 My Life As An Animal: Horses DOC
TV2
06:50 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 22:35 C.S.I. Like in other countries the celebrities and I use that word in the loosest possible sense are nonentities. France/2010 22:50 Sex in the World (K16) DOC Part 1/4.
TV5
06:30 Little Britain 07:00 Airline 08:00 That 70's show 08:50 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:45 My Strange Addiction SERIES BEGINS. This merciless mercenary's career began in London in 1973. 08:55 Marienhof In German. 19:00 The King of Queens 19:30 3rd Rock from the Sun 20:30 Little Britain 21:00 Hitch FILM Directed by Andy Tennant. 22:00 Rude Tube (K16) Total Stunts. The rainforests of the world are buzzing with life and the people living in them have learned to use what is available. 08:50 Flying Doctors 11:10 Die Schwarzwaldklinik In German. Why are they all women. Baze himself is unsure whether to tell Cate about his feelings. 23:35 Lie to Me 00:35 30 Rock
NELONEN
09:30 Water Life DOC 10:00 Wild at Heart 11:05 Yle News in English 12:30 Last of the Summer Wine 17:10 Wild at Heart 19:00 Did Cooking Make Us Human. 01:25 Flashpoint
YLE TEEMA
17:00 Police Camera Action! Drink & Drive Special DOC Gerthin Jones along with British police shows what alcohol does to drivers. 14:00 My Life As An Animal: Penquins and Seals DOC 15:00 Flipping Out 15:55 Jamie's 30 Minute Meals 16:30 Marienhof In German. 18:00 World Palooza 18:30 Will & Grace 19:00 Friends 19:30 Two and a Half Men 20:00 New Girl 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 The Day After Tomorrow Sci-Fi nightmare of a series of catastrophes following the climate change. 13:30 Airline 14:00 Iron Chef UK Cauliflower fight. 20:30 The Simpsons 22:30 Numb3rs 23:30 Supernatural 00:55 C.S.I. I managed to sit through the first episode and I can say without the tiniest shadow of doubt that this is the worst Finnish-made show to hit our screens for at least the past year; those of you who watch a lot of T V will know that that is not something to say lightly. Even if you're absolutely desperate for a glimpse of female flesh, well, that's what we've got the internet for, so I can't see why you'd bother tuning in to this train wreck. Directed by Suzanne Raes. 15:05 Relic Hunter 16:00 Airline 16:30 America's Funniest Home Videos Two episodes. In Michigan one fingerprint and the DNA-archives help the police track down a potential serial killer. As in society also on the ship the people travel differently. With Children 00:25 MotoGP SPORT 01:25 Grey's Anatomy 02:20 Oz (K16)
SUB
08:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. 22:00 4D: Addicted to Food Sharon's Story When Sharon Mevsimler died the media claimed that she ate herself to death. 23:20 Frasier 23:50 Married... USA/2011. 08:50 Flying Doctors 09:40 Globe Trekker: Australia 11:10 Die Schwarzwaldkilinik In German. 22:50 True Blood (K16)
Wild at Heart Yle News in Finnish Last of the Summer Wine Wildlife Highlight Podcast Wild at Heart Human Planet Part 4/8. Hogan. 23:25 C.S.I. How did it affect the evolution of human teeth and brains and what does the future look like?
Desperate Housewives Nelonen 21:00 07:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. USA/2003. 23:00 South Park 23:30 Fear Factor SERIES BEGINS. With Children 00:50 Ghost Whisperer 01:45 Oz (K16)
SUB
08:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. Ohjaus Andrew Davies & André Schäfer, 2009. With Children 21:00 Navy NCIS Commander's murder leads NCIS to mysterious Watcher Fleet and a conspiracy revolving around microchips. Anyway, this line up of ten is notable mainly for the fact that they're all women, and most of them are really fruity, especially when they're wearing bikinis. USA/2004. 17:10 Married..
Webber has his 10,000th surgery and Zola's celebrating her first birthday. 19:55 Getting on 22:00 Desperate Romantics Part 1/6. 13:10 Packed to the Rafters 14:05 Jon & Kate Plus 8 14:35 The King of Queens 15:05 Relic Hunter 16:00 Airline 16:30 America's Funniest Home Videos 17:30 My wife and kids 18:00 That 70's show 19:00 The King of Queens 19:30 3rd Rock from the Sun 21:00 Rambo First Blood (K16) FILM Vietnam War veteran John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) ends up in a small town while looking for his friend. A Return to Normalcy.
TV5
06:30 Little Britain 07:00 Airline 08:00 That 70's show 08:50 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:15 Jon & Kate Plus 8 09:40 How'd You Get So Rich. 14:00 My Life As An Animal: Highlights DOC 15:00 Flipping Out 15:55 Jamie's 30 Minute Meals 16:30 Marienhof In German. Are antibiotics really the answer to all medical problems as some say or have the effects been exaggerated. 23:50 Married... in 1881. 23:20 Frasier Analyzed kiss. Father can't help giving in to him. Events of his life reflect the politic and economic realities that the frontiers were living off of. USA/2005. 22:40 Boardwalk Empire (K16) SEASON FINALE. Teddy and Christina try to steal a surgery Owen gave to others. The prisoners and guards alike decide to collect money to send the child to Dicney World. 20:30 Outnumbered Little missus has had enough of her mother's nagging and makes her own conclusions. Frasier gets a frisky kiss from Julia and overanalyses it. Directed by Andy Tennant. 23:00 Call Me Fitz 23:40 Hitch FILM Love doctor with problems in his own love life. USA/1982. A) Viidakkokuume B) Viidakon tähtöset C) Viidakon tiikerit
by
sudoku
SOLUTION ON NEXT PAGE.
the numbers
In 2010
of children under one year of age were in daycare, whereas
1%
68%
of 1-3 year-olds were in daycare.
Source: Statistics Finland. USA/2005. A) By shaking hands B) By giving French kisses C) By nodding 3) When is April Fool's Day. 22:05 Hockey SPORT 00:05 Gene Simmons Family Jewels 01:05 South Park 01:35 Fear Factor 02:30 JIM D: Prophets of Doom Part 2/2. Lexie does everything she can for an 11-year old cancer patient. 04:35 Relic Hunter
JIM
12:00 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 13:30 Airline 14:00 Invite Ian Wright 15:00 Dragon's Den 16:00 Pawn Stars 16:30 MotoGP SPORT 17:00 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 18:00 Dragon's Den 19:30 South Park 20:00 Bullrun 21:00 JIM D: Antibiotics Invented in the midst of the Second World War penicillin revolutionized the 20th century medicine and they soon spread all over the world. A) Kiira Korpi B) Laura Lepistö C) Susanna Rahkamo 2) How do Finns generally greet each other in business life. 17:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 Will & Grace 19:00 Friends 19:30 Miehen puolikkaat 20:00 2 Broke Girls 20:30 The Simpsons 22:30 Bones 23:30 Cops With Cameras 00:30 The X-Files 01:25 Numb3rs
TV2
06:50 Childrens Programming In Finnish. The Father and the youngest children are in shock and the eldest daughter has to take the reins. 21:45 Maman est chez le Coiffeu FILM In French. 08:55 Marienhof In German. New York (K16) 23:05 Mythbusters 00:10 Prisoner (2009) 01:10 30 Rock
NELONEN
Wild at Heart Yle News in English Last of the Summer Wine Cheetah The Price of Speed 17:10 Wild at Heart 19:00 History: Wyatt Earp DOC Sheriff Wyatt Earp is remembered as the hero of the Gunfight at the O.K. 08:49 Flying Doctors 15:28 YLE Live: Veto Veto - dark electro rock from rock festival held in Denmark's Roskilde in the summer of 2011. 16:15 Heartland 17:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish. 21:00 C.S.I. Starring: Sylvester Stallone. With Children 01:15 Oz (K16) The Zoo. Directed by Ted Kotcheff. In 1850 era London four handsome young artists form a prerafaelites brotherhood which begins to shake the world of art. Rebadow finds out that his grandson has leukaemia. 03:30 Naked and Funny (K16) 04:30 Pawn Stars
YLE TEEMA
17:00 Been Rich all My Life DOC Documentary on five almost 90-year-old step dancer ladies whose legs are still rising high. Starring: Will Smith. First they need to find a perfect model though...
Mon 4/2
Tue 4/3
Wed 4/4
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SUB
08:00 Sturm der Liebe In German. A) Artisokka B) Punajuuri C) Kesäkurpitsa 5) What is the name of Sub TV's new reality show, in which celebrities are sent to the jungle. Directed by Léa Pool. Canada/2008.
6:52 am 7:58 pm 7:02 am 8:09 pm 6:55 am 8:04 pm
6:43 am 8:02 pm 6:39 am 8:05 pm 6:27 am 8:07 pm
Desperate Romantics T V1 22:00
See answers on the next page.
How well did you read your HT?
1) Which Finnish figure skater retired this week. Quebecoise family's idyllic settings are disturbed in the summer of 1966 when the Mother files for divorce. While there he becomes the eyesore of the local sheriff (Brian Dennehy). A) 1 April B) 10 April C) 15 April 4) What is the name of the women's film festival held in Helsinki 29 March 1 April. 01:45 Men Behaving Badly 02:25 Navy NCIS 03:10 5D: Love Me, Love My Doll (K16) USA/2011. 13:00 Doctors 14:05 Parenthood 15:05 How I Met Your Mother 17:05 The Young and the Restless 18:00 Emmerdale Two episodes. The family holds a dinner party and Ben is doing his best to help. Arnold "Poet" Jackson won't stay free for long.
Thu 3/29 Fri 3/30 Sat 3/31 Sun 4/1
HELSINKI TIMES
wednesday
TV1
10:00 11:05 12:30 16:00
4.4.
MTV3
10:05 Emmerdale Two episodes. 08:55 Fresh with Anna Olson 09:25 Travel with Kids 10:30 Makeover Wish 13:00 Travel with Kids 14:05 Makeover Wish 14:35 Fresh with Anna Olson 15:05 Build a New Life in the Country 16:05 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 17:10 Married... With Children 21:00 Grey's Anatomy Hope for the Hopeless. 26
29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
TV GUIDE
Thu 3/29 -3 -1 -2 +4 +4 +5 +5 Fri 3/30
Maman est chez le Coiffeu YLE Teema 21:45 07:00 Childrens Programming In Finnish
I guess I'm one of those adventurers who are destined to chase the treasures at the end of the rainbow instead of being happy with an ordinary life. Wanha Kauppahalli ("Old Market Hall") at the Market Square and Hakaniemen Kauppahalli ("Hakaniemi Market Hall") are the most popular. 09 4711. Helsinki's General Post Office is also open at the weekend 10-18. I have tried different jobs, besides the writing process everything from debt collection to organising concerts and taking care of the elderly. Health centres around the country are open MonFri 8-16. F or non-urgent ambulance services, dial 09 394 600, and non-urgent police matters, dial 09 1891.
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Market halls. Yliopiston apteekki (tel. To celebrate our 3rd anniversary we offer the following discounts: Jade journey massage: 75/70 min (regular price 89) Meridian massage: 54/60 min (regular price 69) Foot massage: 46/50 min (regular price 59)
The offer is valid between 26 March and 8 April 2012. Emergency clinics in Helsinki and Uusimaa area hospitals that are on call 24 hours a day: Helsinki: Meilahti hospital, 2nd floor, Haartmaninkatu 4, tel. Internet. 09 471 67371; Espoo: Jorvi hospital, Turuntie 150, tel. Café Aalto, 2nd floor, Akateeminen kirjakauppa, Pohjoisesplanadi 39; Telecenter, Vuorikatu 8; Netcup, Aleksanterinkatu 52; mbar, located in the Lasipalatsi complex, Mannerheimintie 22-24. In a number of Finnish towns public internet posts are quite rare due to extensive per-person internet use at home. It´s like going back to the roots of nature that speak straight to the core of the soul. Maybe I am just bored with an everyday life that is waiting to walk away from me. 0300 20200, calls are charged), Mannerheimintie 96, is open 24 hours; its branch at Mannerheimintie 5/Kaivopiha is open daily 7-24. Sweden is more like a small version of the US, whereas Finland is something different an isolated country with a unique language. Children in need of urgent medical treatment should be taken to Lastenklinikka children's hospital. It is also nice sometimes. Grocery stores in the Helsinki Central Railway Station tunnel are open Mon-Sat 7-22 and Sun 10-22.
China Liangtse Wellness
Celebrating three years of Chinese holistic massage in Helsinki
Three years ago we began offering our services in Helsinki. Public phones are scarce. HELSINKI TIMES
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29 MARCH 4 APRIL 2012
27
WELLBEING
Finland info
Banks and Bureaux de Change. As a poet and a writer this country fits me like a glove. Helsinki is rich in culture, with concerts and exhibitions, and great and inspiring architecture. I love to go to Suomenlinna in the autumn, when the tourists are leaving, to listen to the heartbeat of the ocean. I have lived in Finland for over five years now. Here in Finland, I can isolate myself during the writing process. I guess Finnish people like silence. I think I get into unusual situations
sometimes. Rööperin pesulapalvelut, Punavuorenkatu 3, open MonThu 8-20, Fri 8-18, Sat 10-15 and Sun 12-16. Grocery stores. Dial 112. Most hotels as well as the Helsinki Tourist Office and Helsinki's General Post Office have a computer terminal. Stenbäckinkatu 11, 09 471 72783 (between 6:00 and 22:00), 09 471 72751 (between 22:00 and 6:00). Five years filled with a lot of drama. The Forex desk at Helsinki Central Railway Station is open Mon-Sun 8-21. Restaurants. And it has all happened here in the calm Finland.
Next week... Laundry. In the evenings and at weekends adults in need of urgent medical treatment in Helsinki should go to emergency health centres at Haartman hospital (Haartmaninkatu 4) or Maria hospital (Lapinlahdenkatu 16). I like it. Medical services. Truth always surpasses fiction and I'm living proof of that statement. In Sweden people like
to talk a lot and it is very important that everyone has the chance to say what they want. I have learned a lot from it all. At these public terminals internet use is usually free of charge. 09 471 72432; Töölö hospital, Topeliuksenkatu 5, tel. See www.posti.fi Emergency Numbers. Or the Nuuksio forest in Espoo. Most grocery stores are open Mon-Fri 7-21, Sat 7-18 and Sun 12-21. Both are open Mon-Fri 8-18 and Sat 8-16 but are closed on Sundays. But I prefer the sound of nature or silence. I feel like I have lived three or four lifetimes. Café Tin Tin Tango, Töölöntorinkatu 7 open Mon-Thu 7-24, Fri-Sat 9-02, Sun 10-24, call 09 2709 0972 to make a reservation beforehand.
This month's SixDegrees is out!
Get your copy from the nearest pick-up point!
www.6d.fi
China Liangtse Wellness Oy
Iso Roobertinkatu 8, LH 1, Helsinki Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10-21 and Sun 14-20 Tel: 09 2784201 I info@liangtse.fi I www.liangtse.fi
EXPAT VIEW
Nicklas Smith is a journalist/writer living and working in Finland.
Quiet happenings
FINLAND, the land of a thousand lakes: I love the shimmering melancholy in this land of snow and ice. Both telephone cards and Finnish SIM cards for mobile phones can be bought at R-kioski shops. Health advice and information call centre (if you are unsure of what to do) 09 100 23. Post offices are usually open Mon-Fri 10-18. Banks are usually open Mon-Fri 9:15-16:15 except for the bank at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, which is open 6-22 daily. Finland's international country code is +358 and to ring abroad from Finland dial 00. 09 471 87383; Vantaa: Peijas hospital, Sairaalakatu 1, tel. There will be a double issue of Helsinki Times at Easter! Read about Finnish Easter culinary traditions and get to know the Finnish city of Kouvola.
12 April Easter break on Helsinki Times on don't wait for your on 12 April, so r is out HT takes a break ing HT after Easte that day! The follow copy on on 19 April.
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In this series expatriates write about their lives in Finland.. I don't need to respond to people asking if I'm depressed when I need to be alone for a while. The past is alive like a bright shadow over the present in the small, beautiful city of Porvoo, with its little wooden houses close to the river that flows through the town. Restaurants in the Helsinki area can be found from the internet service www.eat.fi, which provides information on restaurants, their menus, opening hours and some user rating etc. You can really hear it there. For me Finland is totally different from Sweden, where I'm from. If I wrote a book about it, people would probably not believe half of it. Operator number 118. The voices from the past seem to whisper through the crown of the trees all around there. See www.forex.fi for more information. WELCOME!
answers
1 2 3 4 5 B A A A B
Post Offices. Even if Finland and Sweden are close to each other geographically, they seem like two different worlds. Pharmacies. Internet Cafés. Besides the capital of Finland, I'm totally in love with
Porvoo, which is the second-oldest town in Finland. I love to walk at Linnanmäki in Porvoo, where a castle once stood. The currency exchange counter at the harbour in Katajanokka, Helsinki is open every day (Mon-Sat 10-11:30, 1617:30 and 19:30-21:15, Sun 10-11:30, 16-17:30 and 6:30-8). Telephone