This year’s Hankookin Heikki honor has been bestowed on Mary Pekkala.
The Hankookin Heikki award is given to someone who has made significant contributions to keeping the Copper Country’s Finnish traditions alive.
David Maki of the Finnish Theme Committee says Pekkala has been a behind-the-scenes star..
Pekkala also volunteers at the Archives at the Finnish American Heritage Center, and is vice-president of the Finnish Council of America.
She will preside over the parade at Heikinpäivä on January 25.
The Heikinpäivä 2020 schedule has been posted. Activities begin January 9. Check it out here.