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The sun of Kiuruvesi baked the drink vendor so intensely that a legally mandated plastic cup break had to be taken to avoid dehydration. I was enjoying my drink alone when a woman sat down at the table for a long time. With the directness typical of Savonians, she struck up a conversation. Tuula, a Swedish drink counter for the tenth year, told me that the staff is at Iskelmäviikko earning money for their hobby activities. Everyone earns for some club or association. We’re not talking about huge sums, but with that money, hobby activities in Kiuruvesi are kept running through the worst hangovers.
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The Swede says that without good team spirit, the work wouldn’t be sustainable year after year. His personal touch is visible in the restaurant tent’s operations. Year by year, the work has been developed, ideas have been thrown around, and some have been adopted. The sales staff’s cheerfulness and customer service attitude have been close to the Swede’s heart. Good feedback always warms the heart, and apparently, there has been plenty of it.
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The Swedish person's work as a masseur and health service provider is on hold during the Iskelmäviikko event, which bothers them a bit. The best tourist season passes by just when demand would be at its peak. On the other hand, there is a great team spirit and a strong drive to contribute to their own municipality. The Swede hints at stepping aside from the Iskelmäviikko organization, but time will tell their decision.
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After emptying the mug, I still snap a photo of the employees standing behind the counter. Tuula takes advantage of the quiet moment to chat with her colleagues. Maybe they’re fine-tuning their strategy for the evening’s busy season? Only now do I notice the funny text on the back of the green work shirt: talakoolaenen.
