FACC Midwest Resolution
WHEREAS, The Finnish-American Chamber of Commerce Midwest, also known as FACC Midwest, was registered with the State of Illinois on March 29th, 1960 and the first organizing meeting was held on May, 18th, 1961.
WHEREAS, The first executive committee was headed by Ernest L. Knuti, Attorney and Honorary Consul of Finland, with the two other members George H. Matso, President of Plywood & Door Manufacturers Corp of Chicago and Walden Porter of the Chicago Association of Commerce and Industry
WHEREAS, The main objective of the FACC Midwest is to promote trade between Finland and the United States of America. FACC Midwest has worked closely with Consulate General, Honorary Consulate, and the Trade Commission of Finland in Chicago.
WHEREAS, The main activity of the FACC has been participating, co-sponsoring and organizing various kinds of networking events for business people and companies, such as trade fairs, seminars, and company visits. In recent years, the FACC Midwest has extended its reach to include cultural connections and the promotion of Finnish artists.
WHEREAS, The FACC Midwest has created a strong professional and social network to serve the needs of an increasing population of young expatriates from Finnish companies that are moving into the Chicago area.
WHEREAS, The FACC Midwest has supported and fostered cooperation with other local Finnish-American organizations such as the Chicago Finnish School, which helps children keep up Finnish language and culture.
WHEREAS, Several seminars and exhibitions during early years of FACC Midwest have taken a place to promote Finnish design and technology: "Finland: Nature, Architecture, Design" at Museum of Science and Industry , Business Culture Seminar focused on difficulties in communication between American and Finnish business people, IT Conference specializing in websites, and a Finnish Biotech Conference.
WHEREAS, Future endeavors include discussions with World Business Chicago and other stakeholders concerning Finnish clean technology companies and their desire to expand business in the Chicago area.
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and the Members of the City Council of Chicago assembled on this third day of November, 2010, do hereby honor the Finnish-American Chamber of Commerce Midwest for enriching the City of Chicago and the nation with their drive to connect and create a supportive network between the Finnish business community and the city of Chicago.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy oUhis resolution be prepared and presented to the Finnish-American Chamber of Commerce Midwest/
Scott Wagues^ Alderman, 32nd Ward