nordstjernan The Swedish Newspaper of America
Published by Swedish News. Volume 143 No. 10, May 30, 2015. Price per copy $2.50
Page 19-30
This Week, Page 2
It’s been a staple for generations at an historic midwest restaurant and popular tourist destination—today among the nation’s largest importers of Swedish lingonberries, and the product just got even better—In search of the perfect lingonberry / Page 6
Swedish American Landmark by Ted Olsson, San Francisco ted@nordstjernan.com
Distinguished Swedish Society members Fred and Susan Bianucci greeted guests at the door of the Swedish American Hall: He was in his American suit; she in a Swedish provincial costume. Inside, guests could ascend the grand staircase or ride the new elevator, which goes from the well-known basement nightspot Café du Nord to the private top floor with its Archives room, “Svea” and board room, “Verdandi.” Verdandi was one of the three Nordic norns — the weird sisters who wove each one’s fate: yesterday, today and tomorrow. Verdandi was responsible for the future. The Society’s Swedes who built the hall evidently felt the community’s future would be fashioned in this room. This was the first time in two years that many visitors had been in the building since its long renovation. Continued on page 4
Page 8 Midsummer preparations are under way...
In Brief, Page 2, 3
A new Swedish princess / Deputy Prime Minister criticized / Pirate Bay web domain seized / New meaning of paying in bits—digital currency from high-tech Sweden / Julian Assange arrest warrant upheld.
\ nord-shâr-non\
Food, Page 8 August Nordin’s masterpiece: the Swedish American Hall of 1907, today. Photo: Ted Olsson
A blue and yellow celebration
The tradition of celebrating a National Day of Sweden (Sveriges nationaldag) on June 6 began not to signify independence, which it did, but more as a recognition of the founding of modern Sweden with Gustav Vasa’s coronation (on June 6) in 1523. But it wasn’t until the 20th century that it became a national holiday. In fact, it wasn’t about a national day so much as it was about a flag holiday – a promotion of the familiar and beloved blue and yellow symbol recognized since King Magnus III’s royal coat of arms of 1275: a blue field divided by a yellow Scandinavian cross, which signifies Christianity and is purposefully not dissimilar to the Danish and Norwegian flags. / Page 31
Sill & Grill: Midsummer with a twist; but not without the herring, cheese and knäcke!
Feature, Page 11
The Amerikaveckan Festival in Sweden commemorates the earliest immigrant farmers.
Midsummer 2015, Page 12
news in brief. page 2
Swedish News Flyktingfrågan - Hela EU:s ansvar Gästledare
Sydsvenska Dagbladet 14 maj, 2015
Photo: www.kungahuset.se
Flyktingmottagningen måste fördelas jämnare inom EU. Det är orimligt att ett fåtal länder får ta merparten av ansvaret.
Amid wedding plans and various celebrations, the king announced a princess will join Sweden’s royal family. Above; the official image from the engagement between H.R.H. Prince Carl Philip and Miss Sofia Hellqvist on June 27, 2014.
Another Swedish princess
It is up to the king to decide whether anyone who marries into the Swedish royal family should be offered a royal title. With just one month until the wedding of his son Prince Carl Philip to Sofia Hellqvist, King Carl XVI Gustaf has announced a decision on the bride’s title: She will be Princess Sofia of Sweden as of their wedding day on June 13, 2015. Sofia, who grew up in Sweden and studied at the Institute of English and Business in New York, was also a model. In 2010, she co-founded the non-profit organization Project Playground, a center for abused and orphaned children. She will step down from her position there and begin work in the royal court. Also just announced is the foundation the bridal couple set up: If you are wondering what to get a prince and his bride for their wedding day, consider a charitable donation to their new Prince Couple’s Foundation, which aims to promote and support children and youth in care and educational settings. It won’t be long before the family is celebrating another birth, as Princess Madeleine’s second child is due to be born in early June — an event that might prevent her from attending her brother’s wedding. The King and Queen will celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary on June 19.
Deputy Prime Minister criticized
In the introduction of a recent Swedish Television debate between party leaders, the Deputy Prime Minister Åsa Romson compared the present flow of refugees into the Mediterranean to the Nazi gas chambers in the extermination camp Auschwitz. “We are making the Mediterranean to the new Auschwitz,” Romson, the spokesperson for the Greens, said. Romson was criticized by both representatives of Sweden’s Jewish community and by her own party members and later excused herself for making the comparison.
April surplus in Sweden
Swedish government payments resulted in a surplus of SEK 7.0 billion in April. The Debt Office had forecasted a surplus of SEK 4.2 billion. The difference is mainly due to higher tax income and lower interest payments on government debt. Sweden has a debt-to-GDP ratio of around 44 percent and the national debt amounts to SEK 1,375 billion ($170 billion)
Pirate Bay web domain seized
On May 18 a Stockholm court seized the Swedish web domains of file-sharing site The Pirate Bay over repeated copyright violations in a bid to end the site’s activities. However, it was unclear what effect the Swedish court’s decision would have. Several hours after the ruling, users typing the addresses piratebay.se and thepiratebay.se were simply redirected to other Pirate Bay sites. “Sweden has done what it can to show that it doesn’t accept this type of activity,” a lawyer at the antipiracy Rights Alliance, told news agency TT.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2015
Från några av världens värsta krishärdar strömmar flyktingar in i EU, men viljan att ta ansvar för migrationen förblir klen på många håll. Av de 625 000 personer som sökte asyl inom unionen i fjol togs merparten emot av åtta EUländer. Sverige var ett av dessa. Så det är snarast naturligt att statsminister Stefan Löfven (S) välkomnar EU-kommissionens förslag om jämnare fördelning av flyktingar. Frågan är bara hur mycket av de lovvärda visionerna som finns kvar när förhandlingarna avslutats. Kommissionen föreslår i ett nytt strategidokument att 20 000 kvotflyktingar per år ska fördelas mellan de 28 medlemsstaterna. Hänsyn ska tas till ländernas befolkningsstorlek, ekonomi och tidigare flyktingmottagning. Tanken
är sedan att samma modell ska användas för fördelning av övriga flyktingar som kommer till unionen. Nog låter detta högst rimligt, så som läget i omvärlden ser ut idag. “Vi måste hjälpas åt. Människor far oerhört illa och förolyckas i tusental på Medelhavet. Vi kan inte ha det så”, konstaterar Löfven i en TT-kommentar.
militära insatser. Det kan handla om att landstiga i Libyen för att slå till mot flyktingsmugglares verksamheter. Även om EU-länderna – mot förmodan – skulle enas om så vanskliga operationer lär de knappast få klartecken i FN:s säkerhetsråd. Misstanken ligger nära till hands att kommissionen har tagit i lite extra när förslaget utformades i hopp om en kompromiss. Visst behövs stora grepp. Men även om ett avtal inom EU till exempel skulle stanna vid fördelningen av kvotflyktingar har det etablerats en princip som successivt går att utveckla.
Även Tyskland, Frankrike och Österrike är positiva till förslaget. Men motståndet är stort från Storbritannien och många av länderna i unionens östra delar. Och på flera håll gör EU-kritiska och främlingsfientliga stämningar Enbart i lägren i Turkiet och Libanon frågan särskilt brännbar. Därför lär EU- räknas antalet syriska flyktingar i milkommissionen knappast få nödvändigt joner. Samtidigt finns det länder inom stöd för sitt förslag i dess nuvarande EU där antalet personer som årligen form. beviljas asyl räknas i tiotal. Möjligen har kommissionen också tagit höjd för det. Delar av strategidokumentet framstår som svårgenomförbara, på gränsen till det omöjliga. Ett avsnitt öppnar för att stoppa flyktingsmuggling genom
Flyktingmottagning är i grunden ett gemensamt ansvar inom unionen och måste behandlas därefter i praktisk politik. Det borde vara lika självklart som att EU inte kan stänga gränserna för dem som flyr för sina liv.
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Founded in New York City in September 1872 Editor & Publisher: Ulf Barslund Mårtensson (editor@nordstjernan.com) – www.nordstjernan.com Assistant Editor: Amanda Olson Robison Managing editor & Production: Everett Martin Metro Editor: Eva Stenskär Sports Editor: Chipp Reid Design: Daniel Berubé-Arbello Contributors: Valorie Arrowsmith - Terry Lee Blunk - Julie Lindahl - Claes Magnusson - Ulf Nilson Kristina Hall - Leif Rosqvist - Ulf Kirchdorfer - Ted Olsson - Jeanne Eriksson Widman - Olle Wijkström - Bo Zaunders Publications Director: Mette Barslund Mårtensson (mette@nordstjernan.com; 800.827.9333 x12) Nordstjernan (ISSN 1059-7670) is published by Swedish News, Inc., 570 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022 • Connecticut - P.O. Box 1710, New Canaan, CT 06840 Periodicals Postage paid at New York, NY, and additional mailing offices. Nordstjernan is published semi-monthly, except for the month of August. Post Master: Please send address changes to Nordstjernan, P.O. Box 1710, New Canaan, CT 06840 Subscription rates: 1 yr. - $55, - Two yr. - $99 - Outside US 1 yr. $167.
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News in brief. page 5
Swedish News
World’s first Bitcoin-based security launched in Sweden.
Digital currency from high-tech Sweden
Image from the video on the proud Nordstjernan history, available at youtube.com/nordstjernan or vimeo.com/nordstjernan
\ˈnȯrd-shâr-non\
Just How is it Pronounced, Anyway?
At Nordstjernan, we’ve been working on addressing the tricky pronunciation of the title of our newspaper. Depending on what Swedish dialect you favor, it may be even trickier, even for proud Swedish Americans with a good accent. Some of us — most of us — just don’t have the “stj” sound in our vocabulary … but don’t despair, deflecting to the easier pronunciation that sounds like “sh” works equally well and is actually more common, anyway. At least in America.
Nordstjernan, which means “the north star,” has an old spelling, which isn’t surprising given our start more than 142 years ago. That’s interesting information, but it doesn’t help us pronounce it correctly. So, we investigated how it might be spelled phonetically. Even the linguist we met with was curious about it. Steve Hartman Keiser is an associate professor of linguistics at Marquette University in Milwaukee. Not being of Swedish descent himself, he did a little research of his own and found our video (http://www.nordstjernan.com/ video/5417/) on the history of Nordstjernan, which includes several people pronouncing the name. He made some curious observations about it: - The Swedes (in the video) don’t pronounce the letter r in Nordstjernan (at least not with an English /r/). Some of the Americans do. - The vowel in “Nord” is between the American English “no” and “noodle.” It is also a monophthong (a single pure
sound) as opposed to the English diphthong: In English “o” is actually two sounds “oh-oo.” - The middle consonant is … bizarre! And I mean that in a good way. I’d never heard of this sound before! It has proved baffling to phoneticians — including Peter Ladefoged, the pre-eminent phonetician of the late 20th century. It has its own wikipedia entry (http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Sj-sound), its own unique symbol in the international phonetic alphabet, a symbol which as far as I know is only used to represent this Swedish sound. Most Swedes appear to produce this somewhat like the German pronunciation of the last sound in “Bach,” though not so far back in the mouth. There’s also lip-rounding involved, and some have suggested a double articulation with the back and front of the tongue. Whew! But maybe you knew this already. Anyway, for a number of reasons, “sh” is the best way to represent this sound for Americans. And so we offer the phonetic spelling of \nȯrd-shâr-non\ We hope it helps! Steve Hartman Keiser, PhD, is an associate professor of linguistics at Marquette University. His areas of emphasis lie in exploring the “how” and “why” of linguistic variation and change, and investigating the intersection of language use with aspects of social identity such as age, ethnicity, gender, history, region, and religion.
Sometimes learning to spell - and pronounce - your own name isn’t easy. In this case, we turned to an expert for a little guidance.
Maher hopes for laughs in Sweden American comedian Bill Maher is taking his controversial humor on tour outside the U.S. — he’ll be at the Göta Lejon theatre in Stockholm on Tuesday, May 26, where he hopes people will understand him and laugh. “I’m always nervous that foreign audiences are not going to understand me, but they always confound my expectations and I’m so impressed. Again, it’s only the American audience I have a problem with!” He has been working on the material for the tour — his first ever in Europe — for “months and months and months” to make sure he brings out the laughs. On his talkshow, Maher regularly puts forward Sweden as a shiny beacon of liberal social democracy, and many of his views would be unlikely to cause a stir in the Nordic country. However, some of the atheist comedian’s recent remarks about religion, and Islam in particular, have sparked some tension even in his own leftleaning political circles.
NORDSTJERNAN: Alltid mer att läsa—There’s always more to read! Call 1.800.827.9333 for your own copy.
The world’s first Bitcoin-based security on a regulated exchange has been launched in Sweden. Finansinspektionen, Sweden’s financial watchdog, authorized Stockholmbased Bitcoin tracker XBT Provider to launch the digital currency on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange and began trading on the market on Monday, May 18. Bitcoin is a digital currency and peer-to-peer payment system introduced as open source software in 2009 by developer Satoshi Nakamoto. It can be bought and sold just as conventional currency. Considered by some to be a bit controversial, even political, the financial industry has taken baby steps toward the digital market this year. In Sweden on Sunday, the day before it was introduced to the market, one Bitcoin was worth 1,949.94 Swedish kronor ($237.47). “Young guys will probably buy it. Bitcoin stands for a new digital world, free from the banking system,” said savings analyst Claes Hemberg of the Avanza bank.
Supreme Court rejects Assange appeal
Sweden’s Supreme Court said May 11 it has rejected an appeal by WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange against his arrest warrant for alleged rape and sexual assault. Sweden issued the arrest warrant in 2010 following allegations from two Swedish women, one who claimed rape and another who alleged sexual assault. The Australian former hacker has been ensconced in Ecuador’s embassy in London since 2012 to avoid extradition to the Scandinavian country. “The Supreme Court notes that investigators have begun efforts to question Julian Assange in London. The Supreme Court finds no reason to lift the arrest warrant,” it said in the statement. Assange, who faces arrest if he tries to leave the Ecuadorian embassy, has always vehemently denied the allegations and insisted the sexual encounters were consensual. He has refused to travel to Sweden because he fears the country would send him to the United States, where an investigation is ongoing into WikiLeaks’ release in 2010 of 500,000 classified military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and 250,000 diplomatic cables which embarrassed Washington.
Sweden faces questions about the Arctic climate
A two day conference on the changes, adaptations and opportunities in the Arctic will be held at the House of Sweden in Washington, DC on May 19-20. Organized by the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat, the Embassy of Sweden in Washington, DC and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the conference is aimed at Arctic oriented policy makers, researchers, business representatives and NGOs in the lead-up to the U.S. chairmanship of the Arctic Council, with thematic segments of policy, science, climate change and green technologies. A related, contemporary photography exhibition, Steps Forward: Facing the Arctic Climate, will be featured in House of Sweden through September 13.
The Exchange Rate: $1.00 = SEK 8.33 05.20.2015
May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
The Pacific states. page 6
San Francisco Landmarks Swedish American Hall
Swedish Society of San Francisco President Bengt Sandberg displays Sup. Wiener’s Resolution and Mayor Lee’s Proclamation. Seated, MC Ted Olsson, left, and California State Assembly member David Chiu. Photo by Jake Tomlinson/Swedish Society of San Francisco. Continued from page 1
Now the hall is under the new management of the Swedish Society’s master tenant, the Upper Market Vikings (Dylan McNiven, an established restauranteur who has several dining venues and Enrique Landa, entrepreneur and managing partner). Their affiliation with some remarkable San Francisco dining, bar and entertainment masters assures the building will remain a destination in the heart of one of the city’s most dynamic districts. The redesigned Café du Nord, with its classic wooden back bar kept intact, remains one of the city’s oldest saloons. It now has a lounge with a small stage for added entertainment. This will be operated by Chef Thomas McNaughton. The multistoried building now boasts four kitchens, actually. And since the Upper Market Vikings (UMV) has a liquor license to accompany its dance hall permit, it can now host parties and banquets on all levels for all occasions and any number of guests. So, as it had been when originally built, it is
now – again - expected to be fully occupied seven days a week. At the celebration, Ted Olsson, secretary of the Society, introduced himself as Master of Ceremonies for the occasion. This role was a distinct honor for him, for immediately before and after the 1906 earthquake, his paternal grandfather had been secretary and a member of the hall’s building committee. Olsson’s maternal grandfather managed the hall for 30 years after it was built.
A new old Scandinavian center
As it had once been, so will it become again, bursting with activity as the daily hub of the new Scandinavian center of the city, then surrounded with Scandinavian homes and businesses concentrated in this unscathed portion, while the rest of the city rebuilt itself. Before the earthquake the Swedes and Scandinavians were scattered about the city. Nevertheless, the Swedes had established Scandia Hall across the street from the
new City Hall being built. Even then, before the disaster, they were dreaming of a more imposing center and had formed a committee for that purpose. So, even before the calamity and long before the hall itself, there was a Swedish American Hall Building Committee - and after the quake they were already mobilized to rebuild. The Swedish Society of San Francisco, the oldest and largest individual Swedish organization of the region, was a benevolent society with 400 or more men as members. Shortly after the quake they located a perfect location for their new hall on upper Market Street. Thanks to the generosity of Erik O.
ht solution for every trip! g i r e Th 415.552.5300 Dylan MacNiven and Enrique Landa, the Upper Market Vikings. Photo by Jake Tomlinson.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2015
Lindblom — “the Lucky Swede” who struck it rich in the Yukon and became executive of the Swedish American Bank — who offered them a considerable loan, they were able to purchase the property. They were also fortunate in choosing Swedish-born August Nordin, one of their members and already a noted San Francisco architect, to design an appropriately distinctive hall for them. By the end of the following year Nordin’s inspired plans had been realized by contractor Andrew Olson and his Swedish craftsmen. Given its history, it was appropriate that the ceremony on May 2 began with the dual American and Swedish national anthems, since that duality was very important to these early immigrants’ identity. Zaida Binetti led the audience in the anthems and as they sang in unison, the Zaida Singers stood in the balcony and provided harmony, so important to Swedes’ choral tradition. Society President Bengt Sandberg welcomed all to this combined ceremony, celebrating the building’s new landmark status (#267 in the city) and also congratulating the Society’s entrepreneurial partners in this renovation, MacNiven and Landa. The president noted this partnership has two goals: to make our partners commercially successful and to continue the mission of the Society to promote and perpetuate our Swedish and Scandinavian communities’ history and culture. He introduced the current board, emeritus board members, and the women of the Swedish American Hall’s Library and Archives Committee (Susan Bianucci, Astrid Olsson, Muriel Beroza, Linda Zalko and the late Ulla Sabelstrom). He concluded by reading the congratulatory letter, both warm and heartfelt, from Consul General Barbro Osher, whose duties required her to be absent on this most auspicious day. The stage at the front of this grand ballroom had three Nordic thrones across the back, which had been fixtures for fraternal rites since the hall’s beginning. With President Bengt Sandberg seated in the center, flanking him were California State Assembly member David Chiu and on his other side our city Supervisor Scott Wiener, who carried the landmark legislation to fruition. As people entered the hall they had seen congratulatory messages from several officials projected on the screen at the back of the stage: from U.S. Senator Feinstein, U.S. Congress Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, California Senator Mark Leno and from San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee. Olsson called to the podium Assemblyman Chiu. He spoke of the importance of the city’s diversity and of people retaining their ethnic traditions even as they adopted American customs. He presented to President Sandberg a beautiful, framed Assembly Resolution, citing the history of the San Franciscan Swedes which led to the building of the hall, and more than a century later to this day celebrating it as an official landmark. District Supervisor Scott Wiener was introduced and thanked for garnering the official vote resulting in the landmark. He mentioned he always had imagined the hall was already landmarked, noting that he was very familiar with the hall, attended many events here. He
The Pacific states. page 7
The University Chamber Chorus of Piteå, lead by Erik Westberg. Photo by Jake Tomlinson.
thanked the Swedish Society for preserving this building so well and for agreeing to have it landmarked in perpetuity, for it is now a legacy for all San Franciscans. With that, he, too presented President Sandberg with both his own resolution, endorsed by the full Board of Supervisors, and with the proclamation of the Mayor named the date as Swedish American Hall Day. The MC explained how cherished choral singing is to the Swedes, and it was time for one of the highlights of the ceremony: visiting from Sweden, the University Chamber Chorus of Piteå under the direction of its famed conductor Erik Westberg. On their concert tour in San Francisco, they had performed at Mission Dolores Basilica and the Swedish Church in America at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church. Westberg stood up in the center aisle about three quarters of the way toward the back. With a flick of his wrist, the chorus rose from their seats, scattered in front of the audience, and sang, “Trilo” (1997), adapted by Ale Möller, a song from the west coast of Sweden with sailors afloat and family ashore greeting each other as they neared home while the wind and waves blew currents between them. While singing, they stepped as a unified chorus onto the stage. They next sang Summer Hymn (en vänlig grönska) by Waldemar Åhlen. But it was the concluding piece, Stenhammar’s Värnatt, Op.30, No.2 (1912), which really blew the lid off the hall. Their power and presence were simply awesome and inspirational. They received sustained applause and felt the heartfelt appreciation. Returning to the microphone, the MC took the opportunity to thank all of the men and women in native folk costumes who graced the occasion. He asked all those who were Swedish or Scandinavian by heritage or affiliation, to stand as he read the names of the various societies, lodges and clubs that are active today. The standees were all warmly applauded for sustaining our community which brought us to this celebration. Officials and other dignitaries were recognized: Olsson thanked Dennis Richards, a friend and colleague from the neighborhood and from their service on a city-appointed committee, now Planning Commissioner Richards, for having encouraged us to landmark the Hall. Later MacNiven in his comments noted to Richards that the Society and UMV had delivered on its commitment. Olsson mentioned a number of others who were important in bringing us to this occasion, especially Historic Preservation Commissioner Diane Matsuda, the local
Planning Department, especially Director John Rahaim, Tim Frye and Moses Corrette, and he particularly recommended to City Archivist Susan Goldstein that she get a copy of Jonathan Lammers’ superb landmark study. Olsson also thanked longtime neighbor, Stan Wong and his family — whose adjoining property is being developed by Greystar into a six-story, 88-unit apartment complex — as well as the neighborhood associations who have all supported us. He took special time to recognize UMV’s partners: Chef Ryan Pollnow of Aatxe restaurant, Chef Thomas McNaughton of Café Du Nord Restaurant, which will open by the end of this month, and the Bon Vivants, who were then in Chicago as nominees for the James Beard Award. But the final, touching surprise came when the MC introduced Dylan MacNiven, speaking for UMV. MacNiven thanked the Society for entrusting them with care for this treasured hall and particularly thanked Fred Bianucci, head of the Society’s building committee, for holding UMV to the meticulous detail assuring the hall’s longevity and safety throughout the years. MacNiven also thanked everyone for their patience and support as UMV helped the Society restore the
Swedish American Hall: San Francisco Landmark #267/ Swedish Society of San Francisco.
hall and put in the elevator originally planned for the 1907 building. But it was the very special gift that he and Enrique presented to President Sandberg that was so appropriate: For this centennial year of San Francisco’s 1915 world’s fair, they had searched and found in London an original medal stamped for Swedes participating in that world’s fair. He presented this to President Sandberg as a token of their esteem for the treasure that they too now curate.
Billigaste Priset Till Sverige. August Nordin’s masterpiece: the Swedish American Hall of 1907. Photo: Ted Olsson
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May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
feature. page 8
In Search of the Perfect Lingonberry At Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay, Wisconsin, lingonberries have been a staple item for generations. Until recently, however, few people aside from proud Swedes and Swedish Americans had ever heard of the fruit. That’s changing. As new studies keep touting the health benefits of the lingonberry, similar in flavor to the cranberry, its popularity is increasing as people learn of the red berry’s many health benefits. Now Al Johnson’s, long one of the nation’s largest importers of Swedish lingonberries, is hoping to capitalize on its growing popularity and the restaurant’s recognizable name and story. Lingonberries may not seem so different from other fruit- or veggie-turned-condiment, like ketchup or mustard, but as Lars Johnson, son of the late Al Johnson and coowner of his famous father’s establishment, says, “When you run a restaurant, you find those things that seem simple are never really so simple at all.” Nearly every diner at Al Johnson’s is served a pewter tray of lingonberry sauce to go with their Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes and, of course, the 112,000 orders of pancakes the restaurant serves every year. When you host as many diners as Al Johnson’s does, it adds up to a lot of 11-pound buckets of berries. In fact, Al’s will use more than 20,000 pounds of lingonberries this year.
Necessity is the mother of invention
A bad harvest a couple years ago left head chef Freddie Bexell scrambling to find enough supply to meet the demand. Though University of Wisconsin researcher Dr. Elden Stang introduced the berry to the U.S. in the late 1980s, growers are still struggling to consistently cultivate it; and it grows almost exclusively in the wilds of Scandinavia and Canada. After calling several companies, Bexell finally found a small company that had the berries in a remote city in the far
Chef Freddie Bexell inspects the wild lingonberries growing in the woods near Lycksele, Sweden.
north of Sweden, called Lycksele. Bexell, a native of Sweden who grew up in the city Österbymo, about 11 hours south of Lycksele, knew he had stumbled onto a great product right away. “They weren’t like anything else on the market,” he says. “They’re not quite as sweet as a lot of the products out there. It’s more like a traditional Swedish lingonberry should be, and they’re completely organic.” Lingonberries have three times the polyphenols and twice the antioxidants of cranberries. They also contain high levels of benzoic acid, vitamin A and C, and magnesium. Like cranberries, they’ve been used to help treat blood disorders and urinary tract infections as well. And they are delicious. Bexell immediately began thinking of ways to take lingonberries beyond the res-
Al Johnson’s Wild Lingonberries. Photo by Justin Anderson.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2015
taurant. Though Door County folks associate them with pancakes, they’re also great on turkey sandwiches, in smoothies and as a complement to game meats.
A private label
Al’s is now capitalizing on the growing popularity of these imported lingonberries by packaging them under the private label of their well-known name: “Al Johnson’s Wild Organic Lingonberries.” Former Al Johnson’s cook Kit Bütz moved with his family from Chicago back to Door County in 2014 to take on the task of marketing and distributing the products to specialty food stores, gourmet shops and grocery stores in the midwest. “The market is extremely competitive — and growing more so as word spreads of the health benefits of lingonberries,” Bütz says. And while other brands have jumped into the market, he says Al’s has several advantages others lack. “I think ours is better than the other products out there, for one,” he says. “But we also have the Al Johnson’s name, which carries weight in Chicago and throughout the upper midwest. Plus it’s a great story — people love the Al Johnson’s story, and Freddie’s connection to Sweden makes it even more authentic.” But Bexell wasn’t comfortable putting the Al Johnson’s name on a product that originated from a company he had never seen in person. So, in May of 2014, he booked a trip to visit his home in Sweden and added a detour to Lycksele to meet the people behind the berries. “I needed to meet these guys in person if we were going to do this,” Bexell says. He caught the daily flight north from Stockholm to Lycksele and landed an hour
and a half later, just a short distance from the Arctic Circle, to visit the Danica Foods factory. He landed at an airport “that makes Austin Straubel look like Chicago O’Hare,” where there was still snow on the ground in mid-May. “I didn’t know if I was going to be greeted by a guy in a suit or a farmer,” Bexell says. “There were two people waiting when I got off the plane, one of them in jeans and a Tshirt. I just hoped that was my guy, because it’s more my style.” It was, and Bexell was impressed by the small-town nature of the lingonberry operation. He toured the facility, met many of the employees and spent hours talking to the owners. He left feeling that Al Johnson’s had found the right partner in the land of the restaurant’s roots. Now he is working on bringing several more products to the larger market, including maple syrup and Swedish pancake mix. For Bexell, it’s a chance to grow beyond the boundaries of the kitchen and contribute to his adopted home community. “I take pride in it, especially being from Sweden,” he says. “But if we can get this going, it’s also a way for us to grow and employ more people all year, not just seasonally. This can help the whole community if we do it right.”
Coming up
Al Johnson’s is participating in a food and wine festival that’s kicking off the summer season. On June 29, Uncork Summer will take over Wickman House Restaurant during Olde Ellison Bay Days, offering a “taste of Door County” that includes the best from local markets, breweries and restaurants. http://uncorksummer.com Continues on next page
feature. page 9
An historic midwest restaurant and popular tourist destination has become one of the nation’s largest importers of Swedish lingonberries.
Var så god — Please. Al Johnson’s Swedish Pancakes are served with lingonberries.
Al Johnson’s Wild Organic Swedish Lingonberries will be available at the festival. Among other Swedish specialties, you can also enjoy Al Johnson’s Pickled Beets, their rödbets sallad (beet salad), inlagd gurka (cucumber salad), Al Johnson’s Pickled Herring, limpa and of course Swedish Pancake Mix ... which Bütz personally recommends pairing with Riesling, Danish Sommersby hard cider or dark, malty beer such as the Polka King porter from Door County Brewery. Or “last but not least, you can never go wrong with an Aquavit bloody mary.” And if you’re lucky, you’ll see the goats enjoy-
ing a sunny day on Al Johnson’s grass roof.
95
th
Myles Dannhausen, Jr. and Amanda Robison contributed to this story. For more info, see www.aljohnsons.com
Nestled in the heart of the Swedish Village of Kingsburg...
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1465 Draper Street Kingsburg, California 93631 (559) 897-5119
Sunday June 28, 2015 Breakfast available 9.00 a.m. - 11.00 a.m. Raising of the Maypole, ring dancing at 12:00 noon. Food, games, swimming, stage program, folk dancing, Scandinavian vendors. Dance to the music of Västkustens Spelmanslag
Children 5-12 years $2.00 Vi har öppet måndag till fredag kl 9:30 till 15:00 Den mobila passtationen är i Fort Lauderdale 29 september-1 oktober.
Kontakta konsulatet för mera information. Välkommen!
Al Johnson’s head chef Freddie Bexell visits the lingonberry factory in Lycksele, Sweden.
Consulate of Sweden Tower 101, 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1700B Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Phone: +1 954 467 3507 Fax:+1 954 467 1731 fortlauderdale@consulateofsweden.org www.consulateofsweden-fortlauderdale.org Like us on Facebook
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feature. page 10
Sill & Grill: Midsummer with a twist Quick-cured salmon
1 1/3 pounds salmon fillet with skin (600 g) 1 bunch dill 1 lemon 2 tablespoons salt 3 tablespoons sugar 2 pinches coarse crushed white pepper Dill Cream: 1/2 cup crème fraiche (2 dl) 1 garlic clove 1/4 cup chopped dill (1 dl) 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1 pinch ground black pepper You also need: a coffee filter
A typical Swedish midsummer picnic—herring, sourcream with chives, potatos with eggs and aromatic herbs and cheese and knäckebröd.
The most popular food for a Swedish midsummer lunch is still herring, preferably with beer and schnapps … and a beautiful, big serving plate with new potatoes, eggs and fresh green aromatic herbs with red onion. But few make their own herring at home nowadays. With tasty, prepared products available for purchase, why spend a lot of time in the kitchen? All self-respecting food companies produce their own offerings, some with special editions only for midsummer. I usually buy Abba herring in a jar and decorate it nicely. When it’s time to go to the meadow for the dancing of Små Grodorna around the maypole, the picnic basket is brought with us. We love to bake a Swiss roll filled with sweet strawberries, sliced up and ready to eat on the blanket. We add whipped cream from a can or a disposable piping bag … and sometimes with small Swedish flags. In the evening we gather for a barbecue. Seafood is becoming increasingly popular to put on the grill. As a starter we can have smoked shrimp, bought from the fish shop. We just make a small bowl with aluminum foil, put the shrimp in it and heat them for a few minutes, to make a small appetizer. And not so different from the tradition is a main course of roasted, quick-cured gravlax, served with roasted vegetables and a dill cream.
Potato Plate 8 servings
Prepare a nice serving of potatoes, eggs and aromatic herbs on a large plate while the potatoes are still hot. There’s no dressing on this dish; the idea is that you serve it together with sour cream and various pickled herring.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2015
2 pounds potatoes (1 kg) 1 onion 1 bunch chives (20 g) 1 bunch dill (20 g) 4 hard boiled eggs salt and ground white pepper Cut the potatoes to a smaller, uniform size so they have the same cooking time. Boil new potatoes soft in lightly salted water. Pour off the water and steam the potatoes. Peel and finely chop the onion. Cut chives small. Coarsely chop the dill. Peel the eggs and cut them into quarters. Add the potatoes and eggs on a large serving plate. Sprinkle with onions, chives and dill just before serving. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Dressing up purchased herring Horseradish Herring: Decorate pickled herring with horseradish, diced apple and finely chopped fresh tarragon. Romsill: Add sour cream and caviar to herring. Garnish with dill rockers. Tomato Herring: Decorate pickled matjes herring with chopped red onion, finely chopped tomato, coarsely ground black pepper and dill.
BBQ Quickcured Salmon and dill cream 4 servings
This is not a curing in the proper sense, so the salmon should not be eaten without cooking it first. Of course it is perfectly acceptable to broil salmon in a pan on the stove. In Sweden we can buy smetana, Russian sour cream, and it’s delicious use for making dill cream.
Begin by pouring the crème fraiche for the dill cream in the coffee filter and let it drain for 2 hours. Coarsely chop the dill for the salmon, even the stems. Rub the salmon with salt, sugar and pepper. Sprinkle with dill. Place the salmon with its skin side up in a form with edges. Put in refrigerator for about 2 hours. Add the crème fraîche in a bowl. Peel the garlic and grate it down. Stir in the dill and season with oil, salt and pepper. Set cool for serving. Divide lemon and rub the grill rack with it. Cut the salmon into serving pieces and place it on the grill skin side down. Grill the fish until skin begins to loosen. Cook until ready on the other side. Serve the salmon with vegetables and dill cream. Tip: Another way is to cut the fish into cubes and roast them on skewers. Stick two skewers through each, so the fish won’t fall apart when you turn the skewers.
Take-away Pastry 10 servings
Pastry filled with sweet strawberries is ready to eat on Midsommar — with whipped cream to go.
Pastry roll: Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Mix together the flour and baking powder and stir into the batter along with the water. Spread the batter onto the paper in the pan. Bake in center of oven for about 5 minutes. Turn the cake on the sugared baking paper. Remove the paper the cake is baked on. It is easy if back of the paper is brushed with cold water. Allow the cake to cool in the roasting pan. Filling: Clean and cut the strawberries into slices or chunks. Pour the cream into a bowl and add the vanilla seeds. Whip the cream until stiff and mix with strawberries. Spread the mixture over the cake and roll up into a tight roll with the help of baking parchment. Cut the roll into 10 slices and pack them with greaseproof paper between each layer in container with a lid. Put in refrigerator until time for packing. Garnish: Whip the cream and put it in a disposable piping bag. Rinse the strawberries and store them separately. Refrigerate until time for packing. On site: Put pastry wedges on paper bowl or plates. Pipe the cream and decorate with strawberries and flags. Gunilla Blixt http://gunillablixt.se/in-english
Pastry roll: 3 eggs 2/3 cup of sugar (1 1/2 dl) 2/3 cup of flour (1 1/2 dl) 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon water Filling: 1/2 pound strawberries (250 g) 1 3/4 cups of whipping cream (3 dl) 1 teaspoon vanilla seeds Garnish: 1/2 cup of whipping cream (2 dl) 2/3 pound strawberries (150 g) You also need: Greaseproof paper, disposable piping bag, 10 small Swedish flags Preheat oven to 475°F (250°C). Add parchment paper in a roasting pan. Add another baking paper on a baking tray and sprinkle with sugar.
LINGONBERRIES • Fresh Frozen • Dried • Preserves www.sturdiwheat.com
feature. page 11
Midsommar isn’t Midsummer without its traditions, but a few tasty additions to the smörgåsbord keep the celebration fresh — and delicious. Food writer Gunilla Blixt whips up some great snack ideas for a modern Midsommar picnic.
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United Swedish Societies, Inc. Presents
75th Annual SWEDEN DAY A NEW YORK “MIDSOMMAR” TRADITION
Radishes, dill, red and green onion add authentic Swedish flavor to any summer meal.
SATURDAY JUNE 13, 2015 At Manhem Beach Club “The Scandinavian Secret on the Sound!” 658 Clarence Avenue, Throgs Neck Bronx, New York
Park Opens 11 AM
Main Program 2 PM
Honoree of the Year 2015 Chad Widman Funny side of Love and Life
Rain or Shine $10/entrance. Children under 12 accompanied by adult are free. $1 from gate goes to the Scholarship Fund (T. Edward &I Alvalene P Karlsson)
Entertainment featuring: “Smörgåsbandet” and Barnklubben Elsa Rix #1 Outdoor Patio, Swedish Menu, Outdoor Bar & Grill, Kids’ Activities, Traditional Dancing around the Midsummer pole (Majstång) Large in-ground pool (separate minimal admission fee)
MISS SWEDEN DAY CONTEST Scholarship Presentations Event information and applications for Miss Sweden Day Contest and Scholarship
www.SwedenDayNY.com
From “Funny side of Love and Life, Swedish Style” by Gunilla Dahlgren. Handbook for every woman. with text both in Swedish and English. Available at Etsy.com
Throgs Neck Express Bus available from Manhattan Phone Manhem Club – (718) 822-8965 or Phone Sweden Day (516) 565-2091 Email SwedenDay@yahoo.com
May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
Viewpoints. page 12
Ulf Nilson Sweden, May 2015 ulf.nilson@nordstjernan.com
The Vietnam War ended almost exactly 40 years ago. Nowadays it seems that war, which took so much of our time and thoughts, is mostly a blurred memory, a reminder that the world has been even crazier than today. I myself flew to Vietnam the first time as a young man. And then many times — I think a total of 15 — when I saw people dying and being mutilated, the poor stretching out their begging hands, women crying and children screaming and.... No, I cannot describe it. War is hell disguised as human life. One understands nothing except that everything is screwed up and you have to deliver lines — well, if you are a journalist, of course. I am a journalist. My mission (which I undertook with enthusiasm, stupid as I was) was to depict what happened. I interviewed South Vietnamese leaders (I never got a visa to North Vietnam) and tried to explain. It did not go very well, especially since I did not understand. To understand the war — it was pretty soon clear to me — is impossible. People who really do not want to understand, march out and shoot each other to death. Bombs and grenades become larger and larger and body parts fly. And all this, which is not at
The first modern war? all understandable, the journalist must try to depict in a way that makes others understand. Idiotic, I can think today, but I did not then. I was full of myself and the newspaper’s importance. I would explain to the Swedes, it was my task. Let me admit two things: 1. I did my best. 2. I failed too, not least because I myself did not understand. Sure, sure, I understood that it was the superpowers USA and Soviet Union who fought largely by proxy. I understood the showdown was all about prestige and influence over other countries and people. Sure, I understood that far. But why, why? The Soviet Union and the United States competed, but then also millions of Vietnamese died — and close to 60,000 Americans did, too. But to what use, to what cause? I flew in from the United States and was a supporter of America, not the Communists. Others thought the opposite. And many realized simply that it was all a tragedy: The women, children and old people that burned up and were blasted to death would never come back. What was the benefit of all the bloodshed? I realized of course that it was about measur-
ing strength, to check what the opponent had in him. The Soviet Union against the United States: Who was the better? Who would win a great war? Anyone? Questions of that kind were always in the background. Everyone offered a different answer, no one was completely or even half-way right. It is, incidentally, often so with wars: No one really knows. And besides, the front, where on earth was it? That question was difficult to answer, but eventually it dawned on those of us who were there. The front was no longer clear the way it had been in World War II. The front was inside every human being. You were forced to ponder and decide which side you were on. It was in reality a world war waged by proxy in a small, insignificant and remote country. But with the help of television, radio and other electronics it was fought not only there but, around the world — in varying degrees of vehemence. The speeches! The marches and demonstrations! “We” were all fighting, even if we were not. The Vietnam War was possibly the first truly modern war in every way.
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I mitten på maj började temperaturen i Stockholmstrakten äntligen klättra upp till något så när angenäma höjder. Det betyder hos oss mellan12 och 18 grader i solen. Värmen har verkligen låtit vänta på sig denna vår. Folk som tidigare vande sig vid att byta ut långkalsonger mot korta redan i mars har i år tvingats fortsätta med de värmande långa i flera veckor. Först nu i maj börjar det för många kännas möjligt att pröva vårgarderoben. Slänga luvan med öronlappar mot baskern eller kepsen. I hopp om att inte bli bortblåsta av nordliga vindar reste vi härom dan ut till vårt älskade Torö. Vägen mellan Stockholm och Torö går genom ett böljande Södertörn. Det är verkligen en väg som aldrig blir monoton. Vi glider fram på delvis kurviga vägar. Vi ser vänliga, brunsvarta, nyplöjda åkrar följda av åkrar där höstsådden av vete och råg blygt tittar fram. Däremellan kullar och höjder fulla av buskar, slyn och träd som tror på sommaren och börjat visa gulgröna ängsliga knoppar på grenarna. På fälten, utanför gårdar som har stall för ridhästar, står vackra vallackar och njuter av solen. Mörkblå insjövatten glimtar fram mellan gärdena. Väldiga bergsmassiv har sprängts sönder för biltrafik. Det är verkligen en omväxlande och naturskön resa. En poetisk resenär skulle utan överdrift kunna
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Torö i maj karaktärisera den som en färd i paradiset. Ute på Torö låg fjärden stilla och lugn. Ganska många båtägare hade redan lagt ut sina båtar. Först for vi ut till Ankarudden där Åke byggt upp den krog som brann ner för något år sedan. Ännu hade inte många besökare hunnit komma in på krogen. Det blir säkert fler så snart sommarvärmen anlänt. Den trevliga dam från trakten som Åke anställt för att sköta ruljansen berättade att hon kunde bjuda på såväl nässelsoppa med ägghalvor som stekt, nyfångad strömming med lingonsylt och färsk gurka. Hon berättade också att hon själv plockat nässlorna i ett snår utanför krogen på morgonen. Eftersom jag inte blivit bjuden på sådan kost sedan min mamma tillagade denna delikatess från nässlor hon plockat utanför stallets södervägg blev jag speciellt förtjust över anrättningen. Tveklöst kommer jag att frekventera Ankaruddskrogen denna sommar - för att inte säga så länge jag lever. Uppe omkring vårt hus tog jag mig först en titt på den gamla eken vid uppfarten till huset. Varje vår har jag förundrat mig över att den trots att den ser skröplig och torr ut ändå aldrig ger sig. Även i år kunde jag konstatera att det skymtade fram små svagt
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gulgröna knoppar bland de torra grenarna. Eken är en idog typ som inte ger sig de första hundra åren. Några liljekonvaljer hittade jag inte i backen där de brukar bjuda på himmelsk fägring och ljuvliga dofter. Kanske står dom där om två veckor. Dock hade några tappra blåvioler och gula tussilagor letat sig fram. Runt omkring i backarna lyste vita blommor på buskar vars namn jag inte lärt mig ännu trots att jag försökt i åratal. Utanför Hagbergs kåk blommade köksbärsträden uppkäftigt på parad. Janne fiskare berättade att han nästan lagt av med fiskeriet. Det blir tröttsamt för honom att laga alla nät som sälen river sönder. Dessutom blir förtjänsten ringa på de fåtal nät han lägger ut. Nutidens moderna fiskeri sker på annat sätt och med större investeringar än de ensamma kustbofiskarna här ute har råd med. Det är sorgligt. Men så är de villkor som tillvaron föreskriver.
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American Festival in Sweden Bobo Hermanson guest@nordstjernan.com
Kinda and Ydre municipalities of southeast Sweden invite visitors to an exciting American Festival on July 17-24, 2015. The week contains events of many different kinds, with lectures and exhibitions, guided tours, music, theater, open museums and genealogy. Kinda and Ydre, together with the Andrew Peterson and Peter Cassel societies and in cooperation with the Vasa Order Logen Filbyter, host the festival. They have invited Roger McKnight, professor emeritus of Scandinavian Studies at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, to lecture at the Garden Party in Asby on Sunday, July 19. In his extensive research McKnight has studied the similarities between the fictitious character Karl-Oskar in Vilhelm Moberg’s novels and the emigrant Andrew Peterson from Ydre. This research has resulted in several publications in which the striking similarities are exposed. “I’d like to call my lecture ‘Why I wrote the book about Andrew Peterson and Vilhelm Moberg,’” says McKnight, who will also be at the library in Kisa to speak about the Swedes who didn’t do quite as well in America, even turning to crime. The garden party at the Andrew Peterson Museum and Hedner’s Park will be filled with activities for all tastes and ages. There will be New Orleans jazz and an exciting theater performance for the kids.
Opening day in Kisa. Photo courtesy of Kate Meurling.
Swedish National Day Celebrations in the U.S.
“Vråken” Market
The week starts in Kinda with an open air market day at ”Vråken” and Swedish TV personality Anders Lundin will speak. Hans Larsson, of the Vasa Order of America, will open Peter Cassel Day on Saturday July 18, and an old fashioned market will be arranged at the local heritage museum in Kisa, with food, crafts, curiosities and entertainment. As part of the Peter Cassel Day, history professor Lotta Vikström of Umeå University will speak about letters written by female emigrants. Vikström, born and raised in Kisa, has been researching and lecturing since 2003. She has contributed to two research environments at the university, earning several awards. Her research is characterized by the gender perspective that has accompanied her through the years while researching the emigration of both men and women from the Kinda area. Several fates of emigrants are presented at the exhibition ”The dream of America” at the library in Österbymo. Among them is the unclear story of a trunk that bears witness to great drama during the arduous trip across the Atlantic Ocean. The trunk originally came from the farm Kullarp in Västra Ryd in Ydre. Hanna Tunberg leads a walk around Näs and with historical foods and dishes. The walk ends with a meal based on ingredients and recipes from the years of emigration, giving a flavor of everyday life during those times. For more info, see www.amerikaveckan.se
l California
San Francisco 6 Jun 2015 05:00 AM - 07:00 PM FamiljelördagNationaldagsfirande; celebrating Sweden’s National Day at the Los Altos Lutheran Church, 460 S. El Monte Ave, Los Altos. 415.632.8504|www.svenskakyrkan. se/sanfrancisco San Pedro 7 Jun 2015 11:00 AM The Swedish Church & SWEA LA & OC Swedish National day celebration. Church service & food. More info www.orangecounty.swea.org/ or www.svenskakyrkan.se/losangeles Email: losangeles@svenskakyrkan.se or losangeles@swea.org or sweaocprogram@gmail.com or call 310-832-6800 or 310-292-7079
Roger McKnight, professor emeritus of Scandinavian Studies at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota.
Your newspaper. Your stories. Submit to editor@nordstjernan.com
House of Sweden, San Diego 6 Jun 2015 5:00 PM SWEA San Diego’s Swedish National Day Celebration. Swedish choir, interesting speakers and fika. More info www. sandiego.swea.org or www.houseofsweden.us or call 619300-1738
l Florida
Boca Raton 31 May 2015 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM The Swedish Church’s Swedish National day Celebration. Church service. More info www.svenskakyrkan. se/florida Email: florida@svenskakyrkan.se or call 954-374-9303
l Georgia
Magnolia Hall, Piedmont Park, Atlanta 6 Jun 2015 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM SACC-Georgia & the Consulate of Sweden in Atlanta’s Celebration of Sweden’s National Day. Entertainment, Swedish food, and drinks. RSVP 770-670-2480. More info www.sacc-georgia.org or Email: atlanta@consulateofsweden.org or info@sacc-georgia.org
l New York
New York 6 Jun 2015 Nationaldagsfirande;celebrating Sweden’s National Day at the Swedish Church, 5 East 48th Street, New York, NY 10017. 212.832.8443 | www. svenskakyrkan.se/newyork
l Pennsylavania
Philadelphia 6 Jun 2015 12:00 PM –4:00 PM Celebrate Sweden’s National Day at ASHM! Free museum admission! Swedish summer desert, Swedish themed children’s crafts and activities And guided tours of the museum. All complimentary. Info: www. americanswedish.org, info@americanswedish.org or 215-389-1776 No Celebration listed close to you? For continuous info from all the U.S., see events at www.nordstjernan. com.
May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
local events. page 14
Midsummer events 2015 l California
Gilmore Adobe 20 Jun 2015 4:00 PM–8:00 PM SWEA Los Angeles, SACC-LA’s & The Swedish Church’s Midsummer celebration. Maypole decorating, dance and food. More info www. losangeles.swea.org or www.svenskakyrkan.se/ losangeles Email: losangeles@swea.org or call 310-832-6800 Palos Verdes Peninsula, Los Angeles 27 Jun 2015 5:00 PM Annual Midsummer Shrimp Feast at Nansen Field. All you can eat of you- peel shrimp and other delicious food will be offered. Live music and dancing. Reservations! For more info www.nansenfield.org or midsummer@nansenfield.com or or NansenField@yahoo.com
House of Sweden, San Diego 21 Jun 2015 10:00 AM–4:00 PM Midsummer celebration. Swedish food, folk dancing and dance around the Maypole. More info www.houseofsweden.us pat.coffey@cox.net or call 619-300-1738 or 619-286-8293 Sveadal, Morgan Hill 20 Jun 2015 10:00 AM–11:30 PM Swedish American Patriotic League 121th Midsummer Celebration. Maypole, dancing, music & Dinner. More info www.sveadal.org Email midsummertickets@.sveadal.org or call 408-7824631 or 415-407-0095 Vasa Park Agoura 28 Jun 2015 8:30 AM –6:00 PM The Swedish American Central Association An-
nual Midsummer Festival. Maypole, dancing, singing, Children’s Games, Spelmanslag and Folk Dancing. Info www.vasapark.org, email: info@vasapark.org or call 562-923-5828 or 818-894-2836
l Colorado
Estes Park 27 Jun 2015 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM 28 Jun 2015 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM Scandinavian midsummer celebration with Maypole, Scandinavian food, crafts, dancing, music and Viking re-enactors. More info www.estesmidsummer.com, email: info@estesmidsummer. com or bouldercathy@indra.com or call 303449-9596
l Connecticut Fairfield
Söndag den 7 juni kl. 11
Nationaldagsfirande med gudstjänst och lunch. Söndag den 20 juni kl. 15
Midsommarfirande på Gilmore Adobe
Desssutom: Öppna Förskolan, Svenskafton, student/au pair träffar och mycket annat. TIll hösten bjuder vi in till konfirmation för svensktalande ungdomar från 14 år. Se vår hemsida för anmälan och information.
VÄLKOMMEN TILL DIN KYRKA!
Church of Sweden Los Angeles 1035 South Beacon Street, San Pedro, CA 90731 Tel. 310-832-6800 • Epost: losangeles@svenskakyrkan.se Hemsida: www.svenskakyrkan.se/losangeles På facebook heter vi “Svenska kyrkan i Los Angeles”
Välkommen till
Söndag 14 juni kl 11.00
Svensk gudstjänst
i Norska Sjömanskyrkan, Hyde Street Kyrkoherde Staffan Eklund, Diakon Åsa Sjöberg Organist Ragnar Bohlin och sångsolist Leandra Ramm VÄLKOMMEN!
Church of Sweden at Norwegian Seamen’s Church 2454 Hyde Street, San Francisco • Tel: 415-632-8504 Mer information: www.svenskakyrkan.se/sanfrancisco
Hos oss kan du ta en svensk fika, läsa tidningar,
SÖNDAGAR
MÅNDAGAR
låna böcker samtala och tända ljus i kyrkan och
be för något som är angeläget
l Washington D.C
Carderock Park, MD 21 Jun 2015 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Midsummer Celebration hosted by ASA, Drott Lodge, SWEA DC and Norwegian Society. Maypole, dancing, activities for children and Potluck dinner. For more info www.scandinavian-dc.org or www.swea.org/washingtondc or www.drottlodge.org or email: gerry@schueman.com or washingtondc@swea.org
l Illinois
Välkommen till
Öppettider 23 maj- 6 juni
20 Jun 2015 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Annual Midsummer Fest at The Scandinavian Club. Maypole, music and dance. More info www. thescandinavianclub.com or scanclubnews@ hotmail.com or carinak2010@hotmail.com or 203-259-1571
Andersonville 12 Jun 2015 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM 13 Jun 2015 11:00 AM - 10.00 PM 14 Jun 2015 11:00 AM - 10.00 PM 50th Annual Midsommarfest. Maypole, Swedish Music, dancing, kids’ entertainment, delicious food and ethnic dance troupes and cutting-edge bands. Info: www.andersonville.org/midsommarfest Bishop Hill 20 Jun 2015 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Music Festival and Midsommar Celebration. Music for the whole family. Procession to the Colony School. Decoration and dancing around the Maypole, Barn Dance. Info www.bishophill.com or Call 309-927-3311 Good Templer Park, Geneva 21 Jun 2015 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Swedish Days, Geneva’s 105th Midsommar Festival. Arts & Crafts Fair, Folk Dancers, Maypole Celebration, Live Scandinavian Music and Dances, Children’s Choir, Viking Encampment Info: www. swedishday.net, or call 847-845-2640 Geneva 23 Jun 2015 – 28 Jun 2015 Annual Midsummer Festival - Swedish Days. Parade, great food, carnival rides, live music, a craft show and many children’s games. More info: Ph 630-232-6060 or www.genevachamber.com Lake Forest 20 Jun 2015 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM SWEA Chicago Midsummer Celebration. Dancing around the maypole, games and smörgåsbord. More info: wwwhttp://chicago.swea.org or sweachicagoprogram@gmail.com Rockford 20 Jun 2015 Swedish Historical Society hosts Midsommar Festival at the Erlander Museum. Maypole, Folk Dancers and entertainment, Swedish food & market, kid’s activities. More info 815.963.5559 email: lristin@comcast.net or www.swedishhistorical.org Vasa Park, South Elgin 20 Jun 2015 3:30 PM – 10:00 PM 10th Annual Scandinavian Midsummer Celebration. Maypole, dancing, kid’s activities, bonfire and music. More info: www.vasaparkil.com or call 630-665-7866 E-mail: vasaparkil@yahoo.com or cmhoidahl@gmail.com
5 East 48th Street, New York, NY 10017 Tel: +1 (212) 832-8443
www.svenskakyrkan.se/newyork
TISDAGAR
ONSDAGAR
TORSDAGAR
FREDAGAR
LÖRDAGAR
24 maj Högmässa 11.00 STÄNGT Caféet öppet 12-16 Memorial Day Ung Svensk i NYC 14-16
Caféet öppet 12-18 Öppet lekrum 10.30-12.00
Caféet öppet 12-18 Öppet lekrum 10.30-12.00
Caféet öppet 12-18
Caféet öppet 12-18
Caféet öppet 12-16
31 maj Högmässa 11.00 SOMMARSTÄNGT Caféet öppet 12-16 Ung Svensk i NYC 14-16
12.15 Middagsbön 18.00 Aftonbön
12.15 Middagsbön 18.00 Mässa
12.15 Middagsbön 18.00 Aftonbön
12.15 Middagsbön 18.00 Aftonbön
NATIONALDAGSFIRANDE 12.00
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2015
local events. page 15
l Iowa
Willow Creek Park, Iowa City 20 Jun 2015 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Iowa City Swedish Club Midsommar Fest with games and a potluck dinner. More info: www.iowacityswedishclub.com or jswan52246@aol. com 319-338-9129 Swedesburg 26 Jun 2015 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Swedish Heritage Society Midsummer Fest. Majstång with dancing, music and Swedish folk songs. More info email: swedish@iowatelecom. net or call 319-254-2317
l Kansas
Lindsborg 20 Jun 2015 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Midsummer’s Festival. May pole, Music, Scandinavian style food, Kubb, Folk Dancers, fun run, Arts & Crafts. More info www.midsummersfestival. com or www.visitlindsborg.com, email: Info@ MidsummersFestival.com or call 785-227-3355
l Maine
New Sweden 19 Jun 2015 – 21 Jun 2015 New Sweden Historical Society Midsommar Celebration. Maypole, Dancing, Fun and Food. More info Facebook: www.facebook.com/NewSwedenHistoricalSociety or Email: raycarolynhilde@ gmail.com
l Maryland
Carderock Park, MD 21 Jun 2015 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Midsummer Celebration hosted by ASA, Drott Lodge, SWEA DC and Norwegian Society. Maypole, dancing, activities for children and Potluck dinner. For more info www.scandinavian-dc.org or www.swea.org/washingtondc or www.drottlodge.org or email: gerry@schueman.com or washingtondc@swea.org
l Michigan
Alaska, Grand Rapids 20 Jun 2015 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM SAHS/WM Midsummer Fest. Dancing around the maypole, music, food, games and more. For info call 616-458-0420 or see www.sahswm.org Farmington Hills 20 Jun 2015 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Swedish Club of Metropolitan Detroit’s Midsummer Celebration. Dancing around the maypole, music, Swedish Pancakes. For more info www. swedishclub.net or Email: aviking85@gmail.com or call 248-478-2563.
l Minnesota
Lancaster City Park, 15 Jun 2015 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM Midsommar Fest with Maypole, Ringdance, Music and Smorgasbord. Agassiz Swedish Heritage Society. More info: Lyndon Johnson 218-843-2834 or Bryan Kays 612-968-6323 or lyndon_johnson@ Yahoo.com or kaysx005@umn.edu Minneapolis 20 Jun 2015 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Midsommar Celebration at American Swedish Institute. Sing and dance around the maypole, Traditional Midsummer fare, handcrafts, flower wreath making. For more info: www.asimn.org or Call 612-871-4907 Minnehaha Falls Park, Minneapolis 28 Jun 2015 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Scandinavian summer fest celebration by Svenskarnas Dag and Norway Day. Entertainment, Folk Dancing, Choruses, Maypole, singing, dancing and food, More info www.eventbrite.com/e/scandinavian-summerfest-tickets-6134256727 or teddiane@mac.com or enenstad@mindspring. com or 612-825-8808 or 612-861-4793 Moorhead 26 Jun 2015 – 27 Jun 2015 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM The 38th Annual Scandinavian Hjemkomst & Annual Midwest Viking Festivals. Music, Food, Crafts & Dance, Scandinavian entertainment, Viking Village, children’s activities. More info www. NordicCultureClubs.org or www.hcscconline.org, email Amanda@nordiccultureclubs.org or call 218-299-5511 or 218-299-5952 Nisswa 12 Jun 2015 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 113 Jun 2015 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 16th Annual Nisswa-stämman Scandinavian Folk Music Festival. 150 folk musicians performing, day-long dancing, dance instruction, a cultural
children’s activity/performance tent, and great Scandinavian food. More info: www.nisswastamman.org or Call 218764-2994
sort.com, email: sawink@comcast.net or call 425-746-3260 Saint Edward State Park, Kenmore 28 Jun 2015 11:00 AM– 6:00 PM Midsommar Fest by Skandia Folkdance Society, Majstång and Långdans, music, dancing, Hemslöjdsmarknad, food, craft and kids activities. Info www.skandia-folkdance.org, email: publicity@ skandia-folkdance.org or call 425-954-5262
Scandia 20 Jun 2015 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Gammelgården Museum Midsommar Dag Celebration. Majstång, dance, children’s activities & food. Info www.gammelgardenmuseum.org, email: museum@gammelgardenmuseum.org or 651-433-5053
l Wisconsin
Vining 20 Jun 2015 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM Leif Erikson, Sons of Norways Midsommar Celebration with Maypole, dancing, music and Potluck dinner. More Info Facebook: Leif Erikson, Sons of Norway, Vining MN, email: cbolsons@aol.com or 218-769-4296 or 218-769-4449
l Nebraska
Omaha 7 Jun 2015 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM Scandinavian Midsummer Festival Omaha Committee. Annual Midsummer Celebration with maypole, crafts, Traditional Swedish music and dance. For more info www.omahamidsummer. wordpress.com/ Email: delstites@gmail.com or Call 402-830-6679 Stromsburg 19 Jun 2015 1:00 PM –12:00 AM 20 Jun 2015 7:00 AM –12:00 AM 21 Jun 2015 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Stromsburg 63rd Swedish Midsummer Festival. Traditional Swedish Cuisine, games, Viking Festival, Swedish Dancers and entertainment. For more info www.theswedishfestival.com, Email: theswedishfestival@gmail.com or or charlesnoyd@gmail.com or Call 402-764-5265
l New Jersey
Vasa Park, Budd Lake, Hackettstown 27 Jun 2015 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Swedish Midsummer Celebration by Vasa NJ District 6. Scandinavian Vendors, Food, Maypole, Folkdancing. Musical entertainment, Children’s Activities. More info www.vasaorder.net or www. newjersey.swea.org or Email: candacephelps4@ gmail.com or hanright@optonline.net or SWEA NJ: garar5@comcast.net Throggs Neck, Bronx 13 Jun 2015 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM 75th Annual SWEDEN DAY – Midsommar celebration at Manhem Club. More info: www.swedendayny.com or email: Swedenday@yahoo.com or Call Sweden Day 516-565-2091 or 718-822-8965 Robert F. Wagner, Jr. Park, Battery Park City, New York 19 Jun 2015 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Swedish Midsummer Festival. Swedish delicacies, traditional music, folk dancing, decorating of May pole and wreath making. For more info www. bpcparks.org or www.swedenabroad.com Melville, Long Island, New York June 20 2015 1:00 PM Swedish Midsummer by Vasa Lodge Lindbergh of Long Island. dancing around the “Majstång,” Live music, food, kids games. For more info email: dragspel@aol.com or www.vasanewyork.com or call 718-415-0602 Buckstop Junction, Bismarck 23 Jun 2015 6:30 PM Three Crowns SwedishAmerican Association will celebrate Midsommar Fest in Sertoma Park. Potluck, majstång, dancers and games for children. For more info call 701-258-1262 or email: Sjssonneson@yahoo.com
l Ohio
Alum Creek, Lewis Center 20 Jun 2015 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Scandinavian Club of Columbus, Ohio Nordic Midsummer fest. More info, www.scandiclub.com, email: ScandiClubInfo@ gmail.com
Oaks Park, Portland 13 Jun 2015 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Portland Midsummer festival. By Scandinavian Heritage Foundation and the League of Swedish Societies. Maypole, Scandinavian food and crafts, Music, Dancing and children’s activities, For more info www.scanheritage.org, email: shf@mindspring.com or call 503-977-0275. Astoria 19 Jun 2015 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM 20 Jun 2015 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM 21 Jun 2015 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Scandinavian Midsummer Festival - Over 45 years of Festival. Midsummer pole, Scandinavian music, dance and theater groups, Scandinavian traditional handcrafts and food. For more info www. astoriascanfest.com
l Pennsylvania
Philadelphia 20 Jun 2015 4:00 PM –7:30 PM ASHM’s annual Midsommar Fest. Music, dancing, traditional maypole, Swedish food, games and more! Info: www.americanswedish.org, info@ americanswedish.org or 215-389-1776
l South Dakota
Vermillion 19 Jun 2015 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM Dalesburg Scandinavian Association 146th Annual Midsommar celebration. Scandinavian smorgasbord, entertainment, arts and crafts, games, music, vikings, raising of the midsummer pole and ring dances. Info: www.dalesburg.org/ midsommar-2015/ More info call 605-253-2575, Email: ron@dalesburg. org
Old World, Eagle 20 Jun 2015 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Midsummer Magic: Music, food, drinks, dancing and more. Info http://oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org/, email: friends@friendsoww.org or call 262-594-6301. Same as below this year Old World, Eagle 21 Jun 2015 10:00 AM– 3:00 PM Swedish American Historical Society of Wisconsin celebrating Midsummer. Decorating and Raising of the Maypole, wreath making for Kids, Scandinavian Folk Dancers and Musicians. Info www. sahswi.org, email: sahswi@gmail.com or call 414-352-7890 or 262-781-6113. IKEA USA 12 Jun 2015 A Swedish Traditional Midsummer Smörgåsbord. US wide with an all you can eat Buffet. Each store has different seatings call your local store for details. Some of the stores have live Swedish entertainment. www.ikea.com No Celebration listed close to you? For continuous info from all the U.S., see events at www.nordstjernan.com. Also, find your local SWEA chapter by going to www.swea.org - almost every SWEA organization will celebrate this day
l Vermont
l New York
l North Dakota
l Oregon
Landgrove Inn, Landgrove 21 Jun 2015 3:00 PM Nordic Harmoni’s annual Midsummer Festival. Smorgasbord, wreath making, decorating of May pole, songs by the chorus. For more info call the Inn 802-8246673 or Carl-Eric Westberg 802-824-6578.
l Washington
Vasa Park resort, Bellevue 14 Jun 2015 9:00 AM– 6:00 PM Midsummer Festival with Swedish pancake breakfast, dancing and old fashioned recreation, Swedish food. Info www.vasaparkre-
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local events. page 16
‘Don’t be sad because it’s over; smile because it happened’
Doris Lindfors: A Memorable Life Due to history and intermarriage among Scandinavians, many events used to be celebrated by a mixture of people and descendants from and beyond those countries. I remember this most vividly because the Honorary Consul of Finland, Pertti (Pete) Lindfors and his effervescent wife, Doris, often attended many of the Swedish occasions and belonged to the Swedish Club of the Bay Area. Pete was a tall, thin and erect man (now slightly bent), full of humor and kindness. With his pert wife they made the perfect pair. And though she was not Finnish, she was beloved by her adopted Finnish community and appreciated for representing them as a diplomatic team. As a teacher, she had a special penchant for understanding “why” and then acting to help others to learn. So, they were delightful in conversation. Part of the community is gone with the passing of Doris. It was so like her to have already handled all the details for her friends when they celebrated her life. What was striking was the iceberg of a figure within this humble woman — she was never cold, but she was deep. Many of her strengths and accomplishments, even to some of us who knew her a long time, were now revealed. One of her nephews summed up her positive view of life with her memorable aphorism that he carries with him: “Don’t be sad because it’s over; smile because it happened.” Her gentle humor was recalled when recounting a memo-
Seaman’s Church which Doris and Pete attended for much of their lives here, as well as from the officiating Presbyterian minister from the church they attended in retirement), was the range of her interests. This petite woman was simply indomitable: she hiked Katmandu with her daughter and almost exhausted a nephew — an experienced hiker — when he visited San Francisco, by walking him over the most prominent hills. But her legacy in this respect was helping establish the Ridge Trail that encircles San Francisco Bay. She both preserved the habitat and protected this experience for generations as a founding board member of the Bay Ridge Trail Council. Similarly, her depth of individual concern for each of her students and her fellow teachers was noted. After the brief service, in which her grandchildren shared how Doris had led
Doris Lindfors, 1927-2014
rable trip to Russia. As people passed through the customs line, a scowling bureaucrat met them to inspect their papers. She pledged to Pete that she was going to draw a smile from him. So when she approached the customs agent but before he could get in a word, she told him, as an American, how much she admired his country and was looking forward to enjoying the people. The guard not merely smiled, but greeted her in English: “Welcome to Russia!” What was remarkable, as the two officiating pastors told it (one from the nearby Norwegian
them to know every museum in the Bay Area and instilled in them lifelong learning, people were invited to come forward to share their memories. The true testament to her passion and effectiveness as a teacher was that no fewer than half a dozen people stood up to comment on the difference she had made in their lives a half century ago. Some were students, one was a new teacher being mentored by her and others were fellow teachers. At one point, it was suggested that we continue over refreshments. But one more witness would not be denied, and she too gave a compelling story. Befitting Doris, this celebration of her life, was both moving and instructive. A life well lived, inspiring many — what more could one ask for. Ted Olsson, San Francisco
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sports. page 17
Swedes gunning for NFL-like title
Photography:Andreas Sandström/Bildbyrån
It isn’t quite the NFL but for the Carlstad Crusaders, winning the International Federation of American Football Champions League would be almost as good.
Crusader quarterback Anders Hermodsson hands off to running back Christan Forsmanunde during Carlstad’s 42-7 win over the Helsinki Rooster in the IFAF Champions League quarterfinals May 16 in Karlstad. Chipp Reid, Sports Editor chipp@nordstjernan.com
The top Swedish team in American football, the Crusaders, certainly act like an NFL team as they have gone through a dizzying array of coaches en route to reaching the semifinals of the IFAF Champions League. Carlstad hired NAIA Hall of Fame coach Duke Iversen to see them through the Champions League and into the Swedish season, but the former Western Colorado State University mentor lasted just two games. Although both were wins, Iversen’s approach to the game didn’t sit well with the club and by mutual agreement, the two parted ways on May 11. Malik Jackson, the Crusaders’ defensive coordinator took over the head coaching duties. Matt Adkins, who was head coach last season, agreed to return temporarily as the team’s offensive coordinator. Adkins is currently the wide receivers coach at Southern Oregon University, an NAIA school. The Crusaders made a winner out of Jackson in his debut as head coach as they routed the Limhamm Griffins 41-14 on May 11. Crusaders quarterback Anders Hermodsson threw for two touchdowns and rushed for a pair as Carlstad used a bruising game to overwhelm the Griffins. A week later, Carlstad faced the Helsinki Roosters for the right to advance to the semifinals of the Champions League. The Roosters won the
Champions League last year and returned most of their team. However, Carlstad’s ground game was simply too much. The Crusaders rushed for 241 yards, while Hermodsson passed for another 203. Carlstad was up 35-0 at the half as Hermodsson rushed for a pair of touchdowns and then two more. He hit a third TD pass in the third quarter. Like any NFL team, however, the on-field product is one of off-field preparations and for Carlstad, which has had six head coaches in as many years, the appearance is at least of an unstable club. General Manager Robert Sundberg, however, said appearances are deceiving. “We want to be Sweden’s team when we play in Europe,” Sundberg said. “Our goal is to come up at a much higher level than at present with the help of businesses and the municipality.” He said he hopes the Crusaders’ success in Europe will open the door for foreign sponsors as well. No one who watches the IFAF Champions League or the Swedish Elitserien of American Football will confuse it with either the nowdefunct NFL Europe or the World League of American Football. American players dominated the rosters of those league and many teams in the IFAF pantheon rely on U.S. players. Not Carlstad. The Crusaders spend their money on American coaches who can teach technique to a core of home-grown players, such as Hermodsson. So far, the strategy has paid off
as Carlstad has won five straight Swedish titles. “With the Champions League, we can come out and showcase our association and also the town of Karlstad in Europe,” Sundberg said. “It means many good things, including recruitment purposes. We cannot offer the same The Carlstad Cusaders celebrate winning their fifth Swedish title in American football. financial compensation as in Germany, for example, but we are on a high French champions and also won the EFAF Cup 2013 tournament which Carlstad won in 2003. level in Europe and that means a lot to us.” “They are a good team that had a little harder To get the final, however, must be trickier season in the French league than before. Anythan anyone thought as the Crusaders must find thing that can tell us is that their league is out the money to send 40 players and 10 coaches in May and it’s finals in June,” said Sundberg. to finals in Belgrade, Serbia. Carlstad took in The London Blitz is one of the few holdovers 1.8 million crowns in revenue last year and it from NFL Europe and features a team sprinkled will cost the team almost 200,000 SEK to get with players from Africa, New Zealand, Switto Serbia. zerland and the United States. “We believe it is well worth the money,” said Fans interested in following the Crusaders’ Sundberg. “It’s not as if you can get in a van and march to a possible European championship can just pull away when we have so many going. follow the games at www.crusaders.se. Belgrade was not the best option from our point of view, it had become cheaper by a playoff, for example, in Barcelona or London.” Carlstad faces French champions Thonon Black Panthers, with the London Blitz or Belgrade SBB Vukovi waiting in a possible final. The Black Panthers are the two-time defending May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
dashboard. page 18
Hartford, CT
Märta Sylvan in a Vingåker, Södermanland dress and Linda Steinmiller in the Swedish national dress, both of Connecticut (avid readers of Nordstjernan) and welcome colors at the flag ceremony at the capitol building.
History
Hartford, CT
A proud group of Swedes and Swedish Americans gathered for the Swedish flag ceremony in front of the capitol building in Hartford, Connecticut.
May 30 in Swedish History
1814: By the Treaty of Paris, which ended the war between France and the Sixth Coalition, Sweden cedes Guadeloupe, the Caribbean island located in the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles (after having held it for a brief period of 15 months). Guadeloupe once more became French. When Sweden held the island at the end of the Napoleonic wars, it was purely of formal character, no Swedes were on the island during those 15 months.
The island was captured by England from France in 1810, during the Napoleonic Wars. Jean Baptiste Bernadotte (who later became King Karl XIV Johan of Sweden), was one of Napoleon’s most entrusted military leaders, but because of his move to Sweden in 1810 he lost a lot of land in France. England then negotiated with Sweden to form an alliance against Napoleon and offered King Karl XIII and Crown Prince Karl XIV Johan (Bernadotte) the island in order to change sides in the war against Napoleon and as compensation for other losses. The four former Swedish colonies in the Americas (where Tobago was never settled at all - it was merely an attempt): New Sweden (1638–1655; lost to the Dutch) Tobago (1733; attempt for settlement thwarted by natives) Saint-Barthélemy (1784–1878; sold or rather given, back to France) Guadeloupe (1813–1814; returned to France)
The Swedish flag flew over the Connecticut Capitol for five days in May, commemorating the 110th anniversary of the Svea Social Club of Kensington, Conn. The club, at Swede Pond along Swede Brook, presently has 150 members—many of which were present for the flag raising. Local members of Vasa and Scandinavian Cultural Society of Greater Hartford were also present for the ceremony. The Svea Social Club, 999 Kensington Road, Kensington, is holding its Sweden Day Pig Roast on May 30; great food, vendors, Swedish music and dance. Contact the club for more info, 860.828.9447 or sveaberlin@yahoo.com
SCANDINAVIAN SUMMER FEST Scandinavian Summer Fest is happening on June 28, 2015, at Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis. Norway Day and Svenskarnas Dag have a long tradition of holding separate events for over 80 years but this year on June 28 these two groups are working together to bring the best of both and make an even bigger and better ethnic celebration for the Norwegians and Swedes and the Scandinavian community. The day at Minnehaha Park begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. and includes a morning worship service, a children’s parade, singing and dancing around the Midsummer Pole, traditional Scandinavian foods and treats, vendors and crafts, musical entertainment, dancers and performers all afternoon with a queen coronation as the finale. Earl: 612.861.4793 • Ted: 612.825.8808 • Dan: 612.724.6236
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2015
Mark the 28th of June on your calendar. Join in the fun of Scandinavian Summer Fest at Minnehaha Park at 48th and Minnehaha Parkway in South Minneapolis.
dashboard. page 19
At Home in Sweden
Swedish mom Sara Aldén performed an experiment in her home, and now parents everywhere are taking notes. Aldén removed her toddler’s doll’s makeup, stood back and observed. “I saw a clear difference in how my daughter was playing,” she says. The doll with the usual, heavy make-up had simply been named Barbie by Minna, who is 2.5. But the doll whose make-up Aldén removed and altered, received the new name Ella — the name of her next door neighbor. Aldén 35, got the idea to make her daughter’s dolls more personal after reading how make-up and perception can affect a child’s play and imagination. She saw the difference immediately when she used acetone to remove the old makeup, then applied a little nail polish to give the doll freckles and a more natural looking face. “I think it will be easier to relate to. They are so very much alike and have more personality when it looks like them,” says Aldén, who is encouraging other parents to try this, too. Music
New beginnings
Avicii has released a cover of Nina Simone’s ‘Feeling Good’ in a collaboration with Volvo. The Swedish DJ, remixer and record producer kept the original feel of the track, but rerecorded the vocals with Audra Mae and added his own touch with a new beat and a small synth section. The re-work was created for Volvo’s new commercial titled “New Beginnings” in which Tim Bergling / Avicii stars by sharing various aspects of his life. The video was shot on location in Stockholm and Osterlen in
southern Sweden. Watch the video on Youtube: Avicii - Feeling Good, sure to make you feel good.
Herr & Fru | Mr. & Mrs.
Her: “Finally! The summer curtains are up!”
Her: “Take it Her: “Th… there! Her: “Iiiii!” Behind the f…fflowerpot! Him: “Now what?” away!” Him: “Is it a spider A Christmas ornament!” again?”
‘Name’s days’ of the Swedish Calendar: /Kommande två veckors namnsdagar
In New York In Stockholm In Kiruna Lund In Los Angeles
May 30: Sunrise 5.28 a.m. 3.46 a.m. över horisonten 4.33 a.m. 5.44 a.m.
Sunset 8.19 p.m. 9.44 p.m. 9.35p.m. 7.59 p.m.
June 01 Gun/Gunnel June 02 Rutger/Roger June 03 Ingemar/Gudmar June 04 Solbritt/Solveig June 05 Bo June 06 Gustav/Gösta June 07 Robert/Robin June 08 Eivor/Majvor June 09 Börje/Birger June 10 Svante/Boris June 11 Bertil/Berthold June 12 Eskil June 13 Aina/Aino June 14 Håkan/Hakon June 15 Margit/Margot June 16 Axel/Axelina
Newport, RI
The Volvo Ocean Race fleet made a stopover in Newport, RI and Nordstjernan got to visit a couple 65-foot carbon-fiber sailing yachts during the sailors’ nearly two-week stay. We were especially curious about the all-female team, sponsored by Swedish paper products giant SCA, that has been performing extremely well, even in light of their limited ocean racing experience and overall strength disadvantage. Right: Samantha ‘Sam’ Davies, skipper on the all-female boat after a mere three days of R&R following the 5,010 nautical miles of Leg 6 from Itajai, Brazil, to Newport, with a local U.S. SCA exec, Dale Sturgess. The Swedish corporation SCA doesn’t have a lot of brand recognition in the U.S. but sells a majority of the towels and napkins you use every day in American restaurants or public rest rooms. It also has a commanding share of the feminine products market around the globe. SCA’s decision to sponsor an all-woman team has to be considered brilliant from a public relations perspective. The women have demonstrated mastery of ocean navigation and boat handling and avoided any serious incidents. Six boats were in Newport - the seventh, Danish Team Vestas Wind, was next to destroyed on a coral reef in the Indian Ocean on Nov. 29 but is expected to rejoin the other boats after Leg 7, Lisbon. Over 120,000 people visited the Newport Race Village. When the boats finally arrive in Göteborg, Sweden at the end of June they will have sailed over 38,000 nautical miles. The Volvo Ocean Race is coowned by Volvo Group and Volvo Cars. For more info, see www. volvooceanrace. com
The SCA boat, only Swedish sponsored boat at the Volvo Ocean Race.
May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
local events. page 20
Traditional Midsummer Whether the event occurs in a park in the midwest where many of the early Swedes settled, far west in California, Washington, Oregon or at the tip of Manhattan with Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty in sight, or in Sweden where similar observances have been held in the same places for centuries—the atmosphere is the same, an abandon of the usual activities and a return to the great feeling of joy. Midsummer or the summer solstice has been part of the common mythology for hundreds, of years. The ancients were able to observe and to chronicle the fact that the sun rose higher and higher in the sky and the days became longer until that day in late June when the shortest night and the longest day occurred and the days became shorter again. How these tribes with none of the instruments with which we are equipped today were able to predict so accurately is still somewhat a mystery, but they did. We are not sure how these earliest peoples celebrated but almost certainly it was a type of sun worship.
In the beginning the Roman Catholic Church celebrated June 24th, Midsummer Day, in commemoration of the birthday of John the Baptist. After the Reformation the tradition continued, and Midsummer Day was celebrated on June 24th until 1953. After that Midsummer Day became a rotating holiday, with Midsummer Day falling on the first Saturday after the summer solstice. The custom of decorating a maypole and gathering to dance and play on Midsummer dates way back. Midsummer Eve was filled with mysticism. Young maidens picked 7 (or 9 depending on the custom) different sorts of flowers to put under their pillow in order to dream of their future husband that night. However it happened the celebration did arrive in the new world, and just as the Swedes in the old country now celebrate, the midsummer pole and the celebration of Midsummer has spread across the country. So let’s lighten up, and hold hands with the tiniest tots as we are all small frogs together dancing around the midsommar pole, rejoice in nature, food and abundant sunlight – if you’re a Swede, it’s a time to celebrate. According to renowned folk lore professor Jan Öjvind Swahn Midsummer is the easiest of all Swedish holidays when it comes to food
Midsommarfest in Andersonville: June 12, 13 & 14, 2015
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as the menu is practically given; herring, preferrably matjes herring, spring potatoes with sour cream and chives. For dessert fresh strawberries with whipped cream or cake such as the one we included here. Another staple on the Midsummer table is the ever present Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation). Around Midsummer, and in Northern Sweden especially, this was the time to put the cows out to pasture and seriously begin to milk once again. It was the time to make the first processed sour cream of the season. A variety of pickled herring can be found at any specialized Scandinavian store, some retailers often of German origin such as Schaller & Weber in NYC or one of the IKEA stores throughout America. Feeling adventurous? Here’s a recipe on pickled herring from Served from the Swedish Kitchen, published by ICA Bokförlag in 2000: Marinated herring (inlagd sill) 4 servings 8 presoaked salt herring fillets Brine: 3 dl (11/2 cups) 7% vinegar 1 dl (1/2 cup) water 2 dl (1 cup) sugar 2 onions, sliced 1 teaspoon crushed white peppercorns 2 teaspoons crushed allspice berries
Garnish: 1 red onion, sliced 2 carrots, shredded 3 cm (1 1/4”) fresh horseradish, shredded 2 bay leaves Remove all small bones from fillets. Rinse well under cold running water. Combine ingredients in brine and bring to a boil. Cool. Cut fillets on the diagonal into 2 cm (3/4”) slices and place in a jar. Add brine and refrigerate at least 24 hours. Garnish with onion, carrots, horseradish and bay leaves. For a large quantity of herring, leave fillets whole and place in a large jar. Just before serving, cut into slices and garnish with fresh vegetables and crushed spices. Drizzle a little brine on top.
feature. page 21
Flaggan – The Flag national symbol nationalsymbol Today’s celebration of the flag on what’s now National Day, June 6, started at Skansen in Stockholm in 1893. Celebrating Sweden on a special day had been discussed for some time, and several different dates were proposed, including that of midsummer. Arthur Hazelius, who founded the Skansen open air museum, wanted to use the opportunity to ordain a celebration in conjunction with the annual Spring Festival on June 6. Above all else, the blue and yellow flag had since the late Middle Ages been a symbol of military might. The flag was not even raised at Stockholm castle until the time of Oscar II. After the resolution of the union the so-called “sillsalaten,” the herring salad (the bluewhite-red Norwegian symbol) disappeared. The spirit of that time helped raise the flag as a national symbol. Organized sports and organizations then took up the flag as a symbol. The workers’ movement, however, held fast to the red banners and viewed the blue-yellow as something of a sign of the upper class.
Swedish Flag Day
Certainly the ongoing world war contributed to the fact that in 1915 a committee for a Swedish Flag Day was formed. Both June 6 and Midsummer Eve were in consideration at dates - the latter already established on our folkfest calendar and the day of entry by Gustav Vasa into Stockholm. It was also the day when the flag laws were signed after the break-up of the Union. But strangely enough it was June 6 that won out. The day that Gustav Vasa was crowned king and the basic laws [the Constitution] of 1809 was signed. There was never any talk of a national day but of a flag holiday. That came to be emphasized even more when the enterprising post order salesman J.P. Åhlen decided to give away 2,000 flags to those who could show they owned a flagpole at least 12 meters high. Over 16,000 people responded, and through an additional fundraiser 8,000 flags were given out. More than anything else, that has contributed
to the fact that the blue and yellow flag now flies over the entire country.
At Stockholm Stadium
The first flag holiday was celebrated in 1916 in the new stadium in Stockholm, and the military element totally dominated the program. But 1922 saw — at least symbolically — a turning point. That year the leading person of the workers’ movement, Hjalmar Branting, was the main speaker at the festivities. There he indicated that Flag Day should be a celebration for all the people and not only for an elite in the capitol city. But Swedish Flag Day still was mainly supported by the military and voluntary organizations. High-brow speeches, brass bands and marches were the most common elements around the country on June 6. During World War II the day, for obvious reasons, became an opportunity to assemble with broad support. But after the war the interest dropped off in the same degree as the military involvement in ceremonies was diminished for practical and economic reasons. The interest in the patriotic legacy was neither especially strong during the 1950s, 60s and 70s.
At Skansen
The large public spaces at the stadium were no longer filled. The capitol’s flag festivities were moved in 1963 to the somewhat smaller and more intimate Skansen. With this the circle was closed since it really was there the whole thing began in the beginning of the 1890s. June 6 was first developed to become the Swedish Flag Day, and although there was talk of making it Sweden’s National Day already in 1923 it took 60 years, until 1983 for the day to become Sweden’s official National Day through a decision in parliament (Riksdagen). In 2005 it was made a bank holiday by making Whit Monday, which had earlier been a bank holiday, a regular workday. NORDSTJERNAN; never a dull moment!
Dagens firande av svenska flaggan på Nationaldagen, 6 juni, startade på Skansen redan 1893. Firandet av Sverige på en speciell dag hade diskuterats under en tid och flera olika datum föreslogs, bland annat midsommar. Artur Hazelius, som grundade Skansen friluftsmuseum, ville utnyttja tillfället och instiftade en högtidsdag i samband med den årliga vårfesten 6 juni. Den blågula flaggan hade alltsedan senmedeltiden framför allt varit en militärmaktens symbol. Inte ens på Stockholms slott hissades regelbundet flaggan förrän under Oskar lI:s tid. Efter unionsupplösningen försvann ur flaggan det som illvilligt kallades “sillsalaten”, dvs de blå-vit-röda norska symbolerna. Den tidsandans strömningar hjälpte till att lyfta fram flaggan som en nationalsymbol. Idrotten och föreningslivet tog sedan upp flaggan som symbol. Arbetarrörelsen höll dock fast vid de röda fanorna och såg nog fortfarande den blå-gula som något av överklassens fälttecken.
Svenska Flaggans dag
Säkerligen bidrog det pågående världskriget till att man 1915 bildade en kommitte för Svenska flaggans dag. I tankarna fanns fortfarande både 6 juni och midsommarafton. Den senare dagen som etablerad i vår folkliga festkalendermen också dagen för Gustav Vasas intåg i Stockholm. Det var också dagen för den nya flagglagens undertecknande efter unionsupplösningen. Men märkligt nog blev det den 6 juni som segrade. Den dag Gustav Vasa korades till kung och grundlagen av 1809 undertecknades. Någon nationaldag blev det inte tal om utan en flaggans högtidsdag. Detta kom att betonas än mera genom att den driftige postorderförsäljaren J P Åhlen beslöt att skänka bort 2 000 flaggor till dem som kunde visa att de ägde minst tolv meter höga flaggstänger. Över 16 000 personer hörde av sig och genom en extra insamling kunde 8 000 flaggor delas
Practice your Swedish Do it twice a month, call 1.800. 827.9333 to order NORDSTJERNAN
ut! Detta har nog mer än något annat bidragit till att den blågula flaggan nu vajar över hela landet.
På Stockholms Stadion
Den första flaggfesten firades 1916 på det nya Stadion i Stockholm och det militära inslaget i programmet var helt dominerande. Men 1922 ägde en – I varje fall symbolisk - vändpunkt rum. Det året var nämligen arbetarrörelsens ledande person Hjalmar Branting högtidstalare på Stadionfesten. Med detta markerade han att flaggdagen skulle vara en högtid för hela folket och inte bara för en elit i huvudstaden. Men Svenska flaggans dag kom ändå att bäras upp av militären och föreningarna. Högstämda tal, blåsorkestrar och marsher var de vanligaste inslagen runt om i landet den 6 juni. Under andra världskriget kom dagen av naturliga skäl att bli ett tillfälle till samling med bred uppslutning. Men efter kriget avtog intresset i samma takt som militärens möjlighet till engagemang i festligheterna av praktiska och ekonomiska skäl minskade. Intresset för det fosterländska arvet var ju heller inte särdeles starkt under 50-, 60- och 70-talen.
På Skansen
De stora publikytorna på Stadionläktarna fylldes inte längre. Huvudstadens flaggfest flyttades 1963 över till det något mindre och intimare Skansen. Därmed var ju också cirkeln sluten i och med att det faktiskt var där det hela började på 1890-talet. Den 6 juni utvecklades till att först bli Svenska Flaggans Dag och även om det var tal om att göra den till Sveriges Nationaldag redan 1923 tog det 60 år, till 1983, innan det blev Sveriges officiella Nationaldag genom ett beslut i riksdagen. 2005 blev det en helgdag genom att göra Annandag Pingst, som tidigare varit helgdag, till vanlig arbetsdag. May 30, 2015 Nordstjernan
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the vasa star vasastJÄrnan
Spring 2015 Publication of The Vasa Order of America
Vasa Order of America District Lodge Rhode Island #3 Convention on March 28, 2015— Front row: Vice Grand Secretary Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise, Grand Master Tore Kellgren, Grand Lodge Deputy Carol Olson. Second row: Past District Master Viviane Valentine, Birgitta Kellgren, and the new District Master Jim Ladouceur. Photography: Karen Kane. /Page 23
the grand Master’s Message
dear vasa brothers aNd sisters, The “Convention Season” is in full swing. When you read this, Birgitta
Grand Lodge News
New Jersey son John Hanright, who’s picked up folk dancing and faithful Vasa membership as an “adopted Swede.”A presentation of the Grand Lodge Executive Board Member, Eastern Region, / p22
and I have already attended five District but I think it’s worth repeating: It is so Conventions and possibly even a sixth. important to have programs that engage We are just back from the District Rhode your members and guests. I also hope Island #3 Convention that was held in that you keep your members informed of Saunderstown, RI the last weekend in your programs for all your meetings of March. A delightful place not far from the year. You may also want to consider the Atlantic coast. We encountered a little putting an ad in your local paper under snowfall between Saturday and Sunday. community events. It’s almost always For us quite a delight, as we rarely see free to do, and although a newspaper snow on the ground. However, our hosts ad may seem a little old fashioned for did not quite understand our enthusiasm, this type of publicity, many community after a really long winter. members are used to this and may be Birgitta and I are now looking forward reached this way. to our own District Convention here in I read all your reports in Vasa Star and northern California followed by a trip to see that you have a lot of good programs Sweden where we will be attending both and are enjoying a lot of good food of their Conventions. We will also have a at your meetings. However, I rarely, if little time for visiting family and friends. ever, see that you talk about what you I hope you are putting on good and are planning to do at future meetings. interesting programs at your Lodge This is such a good opportunity for free meetings. I know I have said this before, publicity and I highly recommend that
you take advantage of it. Just remember, you have to think 3 – 6 months into the future when you write it. With Vasa Star now being published with Nordstjernan, you should know that there are 10,000 non-Vasa member subscribers that may see what you write. Maybe someone who doesn’t know much about Vasa will read your column and decide to check it out. Our new Vasa Database is ready to be put to use. To that end I will be asking all District Secretaries to provide member information. Each Local Lodge then will be able to maintain their membership information using this database. It will be accessible on the web where password protected information can easily be updated and retrieved. With the database in place, annual reporting of membership can be done automatically.
District Lodge News
Swedish Song Contest
The nominations for new officers at the Rhode Island District Lodge No. 3 meeting held a surprise: For the first time in ten years there was more than one person nominated for a position / p23
Local Lodge News
Eastern lodge meeting discovers the link between Gothenburg, trade with India, the Swedish East India Company, Swedish punsch and pea soup and pancakes / p25
/ continued on p22
It’s never too early to start the creative process: Atlanta’s Nordic Lodge No. 708 has announced the fifth annual Schnapps Song Contest—submit your entry before August 15 / p28
archive news » p21 grand lodge news » p22 district lodge news » p23 local lodge news » p24 swedish news » p30 in memoriam » p29
the vasa star / Spring 2015
editor’s Message
issue highlights
Vårhälsningar – spring greetings – to you, all our Vasa members and readers, old and new. According to our records, many lodges have welcomed and initiated new members into their local lodges during the last few months (see the list on p. 23), and I think it’s fair to wish you a collective “welcome” from all your Vasa brothers and sisters. I am among you as a newest member, too. In March, I was finally, officially initiated into Linde Lodge #492 - I say “finally” Amanda Olson Robison in part because it isn’t altogether new to me; I have been affiliated with it through Skansen Children’s Club, in which my children participated when they were young. Now I am happily, officially sworn in as a Vasa lodge member. (I’m not sure whether other local lodges still have the very formal swearing-in ceremony that was common in times past, but this trending, more casual approach to my official membership definitely felt friendly, perhaps even more Swedish.) Now, with winter finally behind us (I’m from Wisconsin, where I hope such a comment isn’t just wishful thinking), all of us Swedes and Swedish
Americans are making plans for enjoying the coming festival season: Midsommar, Swedish celebrations and Scandinavian fests of all kinds will be filling our calendars from now through fall. The dates for most such events are already set and published, so be sure to check your local lodge listings (starting on p. 26), and mark you calendars so you don’t miss them. Many lodges have been adding some really interesting events to their meetings, too – be sure to read what other lodges are doing as well; they might inspire you!
Deadlines for The Vasa Star
How to submit Photos to the Vasa Star
Don’t forget that nearly all the content of the Vasa Star comes from you, our readers. If you aren’t sending your contributions and requests digitally to vasaeditor@gmail.com, please send them to our new mailbox at: P.O. Box 13331 Milwaukee, WI 53213-0331 We would all love to hear from you! Tack så mycket, amanda olson robison vasaeditor@gmail.com
Occasionally photos are submitted to Vasa Star that are not usable, and you’re disappointed when your photo isn’t used. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Summer Deadline » August 15 Fall Deadline » November 1
t t t
• Picture and article, 200 words or less. • For Letters to the Editor column, 150 words or less. • Please send pictures of good quality in order for them to reproduce well in The Vasa Star • For submitted lodge articles, please add city and state. Thanks! IN MEMORIAM » Please read instructions on how to send and pay for Obituaries.
A 101st convention for District Pacific Southwest No. 15. / p29
1. Best photos are taken with a digital camera or a cell phone camera. These are perfect when downloaded to a computer and emailed directly to the Editor. Please don’t try to modify them, no tweaking, no changing to black and white.
Drott members had a busy program this spring with members learning how to make their own knäckebröd / p26
2. Photographs can be scanned, but be sure they are good quality photographs, at least 4x6 in size. If you scan them, be sure they are saved as a .jpeg and 250-300 dpi. If you are not sure of the size, mail the original photograph. 3. Photos pasted into a Word document are difficult to work with, so whenever possible don’t use this method. Send the photos separately, as an email attachment or by regular mail. 4. Most importantly, be sure to include a caption naming each person (if it’s a small group.)
Editor’s email: vasaeditor@gmail.com
“Högtidsmöte,” solemn holiday meeting at Höganäs No. 634. / p30 The Swedish Newspaper in America –––––––––
is proud to be of assistance in presenting The Vasa Star, Vasastjärnan in a new format, in print and digitally. Nordstjernan has been reporting on current events in Swedish America since September, 1872. Kenneth T. Jackson, Professor of History at Columbia University and Editor-in-chief, The Encyclopedia of New York City, said it best: “Over the past century and a half, more newspapers were published in New York than in any other city in the world, in large part because of the huge foreign-born community and the variety of publications that the different ethnic groups spawned. Most had a brief and almost ephemeral life, but Nordstjernan has been remarkable for its long life and high quality. It not only helped Swedish immigrants adjust to life in a new world and a giant city, but it set a standard that other newspapers worked hard to emulate.”
www.nordstjernan.com • 1.800.827.9333 ext. 12
the vasa star Spring 2015 Vol. 107, No. 2, Serial 849 Published by The Vasa Order of America www.vasaorder.com HEADQUARTERS Grand Secretary / Joan Graham 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 526 5512 vasajlg@aol.com Grand Master / Tore Kellgren 5971 W. Walbrook Drive San Jose, CA 95129 Phone: (408) 996 1970 | (408) 505 6623 gmtore@kellgren.org Editor / Amanda Olson Robison
Managing Editor / Liza Ekstrand
Family Tree Släktutredningar
Remember the Vasa Archives
I am a member of the Vasa Order in Sweden and an expert in Swedish genealogy. Over the years I have helped many Vasa members to find their roots in Sweden. If you want my help to find your Swedish ancestors, please email me for further information: swedengen@telia.com
when you are making a memorial donation Send your donations to: Vasa National Archives PO Box 101, Bishop Hill, IL 61419
Donate to the Education & Scholarship Funds Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America, Joan Graham, Grand Secretary 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804
Send articles, photos & memorials to: The Vasa Star PO Box 13331 Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 vasaeditor@gmail.com Circulation Manager / Joan Graham 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 526 5512 circulationvasastar@gmail.com Send address changes and bottom section of application for new members to Joan Graham. Membership Chairman / Bruce Elfvin 2924 E. Overlook Road Cleveland Heights, OH 44118-2434 bbe@elfvinbesser.com Advertising Call 1.800.827.9333, ask for Vasa Star rates vasaeditor@gmail.com
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Spring 2015 / the vasa star
Archives News Summer Greetings It’s time to write lis Island. We have three films to show: “Island a few lines again. of Hope Island of Tears,” “Destination America” After a long and and “Ellis Island.” cold winter here in Our visitors will be able to do family research Bishop Hill, every- on their own with the help of our computer thing seems easier programs and books. For family research, we when we can wake ask you to reserve time in advance. up to sunshine and Lilly Setterdahl has a new book out, Minneblue skies and ob- sota Swedes Vol. I: The Emigration from Trolle serve how nature Ljungby to Goodhue County, 1855-1912. The and all its creatures are getting ready for the book is a second edition, revised, of the first coming summer. That’s also what we are doing volume that came out in 1996. We hope she can be here and show her many books about the here at the archives. During the summer months, we will show emigration from Sweden on June 6. films about the large influx of immigrants to El- A hearty welcome to our summer events.
Så var det dags att skriva några rader igen. Efter en lång och kall vinter här i Bishop Hill så känns allt mycket lättare när man vaknar upp till solsken och blå himmel, och man ser hur naturen och alla väsen gör sig redo för den kommande sommaren. Det är vad vi gör också här på Arkivet! Under sommarmånaderna kommer vi att visa filmer om invandringen till Ellis Island. Vi har tre filmer att erbjuda, Island of Hope Island of tears, Destination America och Ellis Island. Besökare har också möjlighet att släktforska på egen hand på våra datorer med tillgång till våra programvaror och böcker. När det gäller släktforskningen ber vi er boka tid i förväg.
Lilly Setterdahl har kommet ut med ännu en intressant bok: Minnesota Swedes Vol. I: The Emigration from Trolle Ljungby to Goodhue County, 1855-1912. Detta är en andra reviderad utgåva efter den första som gaves ut 1996. Efterfrågan har varit så stor att Lilly beslutade sig för att skriva en andra upplaga. Vi på Arkivet har bjudit in Lilly den 6 juni för att berätta om sina böcker om våra Svenska emigranter. Arkivet önskar våra besökare hjärtligt välkomna till sommarens arrangemang! viktoria almgren
New Members On behalf of the Grand Lodge and members of the Vasa Order of America, I am pleased to welcome you to membership in these local Vasa lodges. If you are new to the Vasa Order, we bid you welcome. If you are transferring or are a dual member, your new lodge bids you welcome. We hope you will enjoy your membership and will participate in all of the activities planned for you. Bruce Elfvin, Grand Lodge Membership Chairman 2924 E. Overlook Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118-2434 / bbe@elfvinbesser.com
Glenn S. Carlstrand Marissa Childs Kirsten Grosz Lois A. Klubens Bucky Shogren Poppleton Rebecca Barbro Wiebke
William Robert Posch
Bertil Allan Winther
Norden Lodge No. 684 Barbara LaRae Brown Ben Brown Dillon Johnson Roberta A. Krugman
Scandinavian Lodge No. 667 Dorothy Lowry Cunningham Desireé Andrea Greene Kirsten Muriel Greene Melanie Anne Swanson
DL CONNECTICUT NO. 1 Norden Lodge No. 1 Judith Anderson Paul Berg Erling Johnson Judy Mitrowski June Roncarti Lilija Strazinskis
DL NEW YORK NO. 4 Freja Lodge No. 100 Beverly Dyckman Warren Dyckman Eric Holmquist Ragnhild Holmquist
Viljan Lodge No. 349 Earl Walter Button Susan Lynn Button Donna Lynn Malsberry William A. Lundeen Carol Marie Van Dine
Sierra Kronan Lodge No. 737 Michael Brian Wochnick
Glenn T. Seaborg Lodge No. 719 Thora Elyn Ericson Carol Kerr Shirley Patricia Mattson Olson Karen Jean Yagher
Thule Lodge No. 127 Kathleen A. Cooper Donna A. Dort Dennis A. Johnson Olympic Lodge No. 235 Robert Tor Prasso
Austin Lodge No. 466 Richard W. Adams
Kronan Lodge No. 2 Barbro Babcock Barbara Gardedei Kathryn Hoffman Shirley Leopold George Lukach Ingrid Lukach Richard Olson Ethel Thomas Linda Thompson DL MASSACHUSETTS NO. 2 Brage-Iduna Lodge No. 9 Michael Caine Nordic Lodge No. 611 James W. Adams Michael E. Adams Elizabeth Axelson Pauline Belanger Barbara Elizabeth Grusell Richard Harry Grusell Marilyn Elizabeth Hildick Mary Dolores Mangsen Lois E. Mangesen-Pakula Viola B. Palmgren Cynthia Mae Stark Linda May Walsh Viking Lodge No. 756 Gustav E. Kohlin DL RHODE ISLAND NO. 3 Johan Baner Lodge No. 36 Franklin DeWitt Ben Curtis Jackson Linda D. Johnson June P. McCrillis Star Lodge No. 56 Elna Louise Bingham Sonja Milburn Gungerd Astrid Riggs Sandra Stickel Linda Young Svea Lodge No. 362 Jonathan Peter Caruso WWW.VASAORDER.COM
Stenland Lodge No. 727 Ingrid M. Anderson DL NEW JERSEY NO. 6 Arlington Lodge No. 62 Jennifer Ann Cranmer Brian DiAlfonso Suzanne DiAlfonso Eric W. Eevardi Denise Louise Ericksson Colleen Ann Labow Robert Katchen Dan Jason Nelsen Laura Kate Nelsen Chester Monroe Stephens Patrick Ryan Tucker Jr. Linne Lodge No. 429 Clifton O. Carlson Ellen Slattery Carlson Birthe Jensen Courtney E. Lynch Brian J. Meehan Sandra L. Piccione Vågen Lodge No. 588 Jeanne Swenson Russell Swenson Three Crowns Lodge No. 704 Holly Cardona Kim Arnold Johnson Kenneth L. Pierson, Jr. John Henry Stracker Dalahäst Lodge No. 742 Kelvin Burseth DL MINNESOTA NO. 7 Kronan Lodge No. 433 Sharon Louise Docksteaker DL LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8 Svea Lodge No. 253
Linde Lodge No. 492 Amanda Robison Lindgren Lodge No. 754 Linda J. Surowiec Jubileum Lodge No. 755 Joyce E. Petty Linnéa Dagmar Törnqvist DL PENNSYLVANIA NO. 9 Nobel-Monitor Lodge No. 130 Donna Reynolds Frank Reynolds DL GOLDEN GATE NO. 12 Tegner Lodge No. 149 Elizabeth Anne Madaras Svea Lodge No. 348 Trude Conrotto Kristen Aurora Hanlon Lauren Emma Hanlon Ron Eric Holst Greta Kerstin Anna Hutchison Isabella Britta Jones Hans Gösta Ringertz Nord Lodge No. 392 Elaine Beverly Hicks Crystal Stacy Hosker Timothy Michael Hosker Sveaborg Lodge No. 449 David Bilyeu Mau Mai Loken Christopher Scott Talerico Sarah Linnea Talerico Lindbergh Lodge No. 494 Albin Taro Broman-Takami Ross Richard Blaufarb Margaret Filson Johannes Hartman Gustav Karl Larsson Josefine Shu Larsson Marian Elaine Lofgren Margene Lynn Nilson Jenny Kristina Nilson-Posch
DL PACIFIC NORTHWEST NO. 13 North Star Lodge No. 145 Ryan Andrew Barone Jerry Robert Highland Pia Maria Hooks Patricia Ann (Wicklund) Horner William Andrew Hustrulid CAI Carl Axel Kabrell Curtis Reed Mahon Raina Nicole Mahon Jeanette M. McDonald Olson Anthony Warren Olson Nobel Lodge No. 184 Anne E. Barber-Shams Anna Serena Kienberger Elsa Stina Kienberger Kirsten E. Kienberger Stephan Mark Kienberger Trygve Anders Nordby Astor Lodge No. 215 Lindsey D. Hagglund Kristina Brita Kjellberg Ashley O’Bryant DL PACIFIC SOUTHWEST NO. 15 Evening Star Lodge No. 426 Kaelin Lily Den Hertog Lynnea Ann Den Hertog Evelena Yojana Jahn Glenn Hisaak Nakano Alexander Scott Daniel Scott Amelia Katherine Vance Mayflower Lodge No. 445 Annie Maria Andersson Annika Haghighi Max Haghighi Håkan Thor Holm Marianne Inger Holm Andrea Lee Lingman David Peter Lingman Victor H. Long Gunell Karin Nakano Sonja Lisbeth Pouncey Alexander Christopher Scott Daniel F. Scott Diana Christina Sevilla Daniel Stephens Sarah Stephens
DL IOWA-NEBRASKA NO. 17 Omaha Lodge No. 330 Del E. Stites Ingrid M. Stites Norrskenet Lodge No. 331 Marjorie Elaine Anderson Carol Johnson Benita Leff Roger Leff Marie Shattuck William Earl Utter DL ALBERTA NO. 18 Skandia Lodge No. 549 Kevin Jason Comeau Kennedy Lynn Getson Ray William Law Sherri Lynn Law Kelsie Lynn Lindberg DL ARIZONA NO. 21 Phoenix Lodge No. 677 Sharyl Bales Bruce Paul Grier Deanna Sue Grier Stephanie O’Connell Mattias Stolpe Kerstin Nystrom Wilson Stolstad Lodge No. 709 Karen Wahlund Kathy Ann Yagami Scandia Lodge No. 728 Raili Oma Delaloye Delmar Gusenius Karen Gusenius Jeri Montgomery Liisa Marianna Raikkonen Marjut Katriina Schruber Gina Staltari Pamela Timm CENTRAL REGION Carl Widen Lodge No. 743 Joyce Helen Campbell
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the vasa star / Spring 2015
Grand lodge news The Grand Master’s Message (continued)
You will also have a place to announce your upcoming events and have your members RSVP to meetings where that would be appropriate. We will provide much more information about this as we roll out this new feature. It is my pleasure to announce that we are working with Swedish companies on getting special value programs for our members. The details of these will be published directly to District Secretaries for distribution to the Local Lodges. By the time you read this you may already have heard about one of these programs. As I have stated in several previous messages, we need to update our website. To that end I am again asking if we have a web designer in Vasa Land who is interested in designing a new website and integrating it with our new web-based
Remember the Vasa Archives
Donate to the Education & Scholarship Funds Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America Joan Graham, Grand Secretary 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804
when you are making a memorial donation Send your donations to: Vasa National Archives PO Box 101 Bishop Hill, IL 61419
database (see above). The first task is writing a specification in cooperation with our database designer and our database director. No need to be an expert in writing HTML. We have a company that will do that at a very reasonable price. We also need to find someone to work with our current web master with the intent of taking over that position in the future. I hope someone is willing and able to take this on for the Good of the Order. If you are interested or you know a member who might be interested in either of these positions, please contact me or let me know whom I should contact. in truth and unity, tore kellgren, grand master
John Hanright, Grand Lodge Executive Board Member, Eastern Region Greetings. My name is John Hanright Folk Dancers of New York for more than (Jack). I was born in May 1958 and raised a dozen years. We enjoy folk dancing and in New Jersey, the second of four boys. I cultural events around the NY, NJ area. grew up most of my life in a very rural We also love to visit with Inger’s family town in northwest part of New Jersey in Gothenburg as often as we can. called Green Pond. I spent most of my In my professional life I work as a conyounger years on the lake, sailing and swimming, and a great deal of time in struction manager for Nordic Contracting the woods, camping, hiking and riding Co. of Ledgewood, NJ. I specialize in reinforced structural concrete. Nordic dirt bikes. Contracting has built the structural conI married Inger Gustavsson of Gothen- crete foundations and superstructures for burg, Sweden in 1980. Inger had been many schools, hospitals, corporate buildvisiting with her girlfriends during a ings and sports arenas in addition to countsummer vacation and was staying with a less high-end concrete projects. Many of high school friend of mine when we met. our projects have received awards for In 1983 our son Patrick joined us and we excellence from the American Concrete lived in the Oak Ridge section of Mor- Institute. I am very proud to be a part of ris County, New Jersey for a number of the team at Nordic Contracting. years. We purchased a home and moved I joined Frithiof Lodge #63 in Dover, NJ to Vasa Park in Mount Olive, New Jersey in 2006 where we currently reside. In my in 1999. I have served as Master of Cerspare time I enjoy sailing, and Inger and emonies, Vice Chairman and am currently I have been members of The Swedish Lodge Chairman of Frithiof #63. I joined
John Hanright New Jersey District Lodge #6 a while later, beginning as a Guard, moving up to Auditor, Executive Board Member, Vice District Master and then District Master for the 2011 term. I am currently Vice President of the Past District Masters Club of New Jersey. I have also served on the Board of Trustees at New Jersey Vasa Park and am completing my fourth concurrent three-year term in May (12 years.) Inger has also held many offices in our local lodge, district lodge, NJ Vasa Park board as well as two, four-year terms as Grand Lodge Cultural Director alongside PGMs Rolf Bergman and William Lundquist. I have been very fortunate to have shared as much time with these PGMs and their board members. This past July I was
selected to represent NJ District 6 as the delegate to Grand Lodge convention. I have been elected to the position of Grand Lodge Executive Board Member, Eastern Region and as a member of the finance committee. Thank you for your confidence in me and a huge thank-you to all of the many members that have spent so much of their time to steward me and help me be a productive member of The Vasa Order of America. in truth and unity, john c. hanright
Do you have a question for the Grand Lodge? Ever wonder why or how or when…? Send your questions about anything Vasa-related to vasajlg@aol.com and then watch for the FAQ Column in The Vasa Star. page 22
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Spring 2015 / the vasa star
District lodge news Rhode Island No. 3 In the midst of the last snow of the season the District Meeting of Rhode Island #3 VASA Order of America opened. It was held at the Holiday Inn in South Kingstown, Rhode Island on Saturday, March 28, 2015. In attendance were the Grand Master Tore Kellgren and his wonderful wife Birgitta Kellgren. This was their first visit to Rhode Island and as you can imagine we wanted it to be enjoyable for them as well as “official”, so everyone was on their best behavior. During the registration period a continental breakfast was offered to all and no one was shy about partaking. The meeting kicked off exactly at 10 a.m. by District Master Viviane Valentine who started the meeting with the official introduction of guests from California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island. Accordionist Dan Mackowiak was there to give charm and a marching flair to all of the entrances. Once the official Reception Committee, Linda Johnson PDM and Kenneth R. Johnson Sr. PDM and PGLD, had beautifully completed their duties it was time for the flag ceremony. Shirley Halvarson, PDM and PGLD brought majesty to the readings as members of the Past District Master Club carried the flags. All of the flags were introduced with anthems being sung for the American, Swedish, and Canadian. In Rhode Island it is traditional to make sure that new members learn the Swedish Anthem to be ready for the next event coming up whether it be a convention, Mid-sommar, or VASA Day – two verses! It is always interesting to hear the pronunciations the very first time but the heart is always sure. The morning part of the meeting moved along smoothly and then it was time for lunch. The meal was an abundant lunch buffet by the 300 North Restaurant but the dessert were cookies made by District members which included the Vice District Master James Ladouceur – he made delightful and delicious cookies made in the shape of a Dala Horse. At 1:15 p.m. the Memorial Service began with Shirley Halvarson PDM and PGLD officiating with the assistance of District Chaplain Janice Post. Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise PDM and Vice Grand Secretary played guitar and led songs with District Secretary Carl Hurtubise. A particular highlight was when Lee-Ann sang the first verses of Tryggare kan ingen vara (Children of the Heavenly Father) in Swedish. (Lee-Ann is a member of the Scandinavian Women’s Chorus of Rhode Island.) It was a beautiful and touching service that remembered our members who passed since our last District Meeting in April of 2013. Following the Memorial Service, District Master Viviane Valentine officially reWWW.VASAORDER.COM
Clockwise from right: First Lady Birgitta Kellgren, Grand Master Tore Kellgren, Grand Lodge Deputy Carol Olson. The Swedish Flag being presented by Karen Soderberg-Gomez PDM and PGLD. A view of what the cultural table and what Merlene Mayette PDM felt the Nobel Peace Prize settings would look like. Photos by Karen Kane
opened the meeting and the second voting member count of the day was taken. You can imagine the relief as the last person sat down and the count was accurate! The nominations took place and then it happened, for the first time in ten years there was more than one person nominated for a position but without missing a beat District Master Viviane arranged for the voting and at the end a winner was declared. Installation followed and Viviane Valentine received her PDM pin and she took her position as the Junior PDM. Our new District Master James Ladouceur (the first male District Master since 2005) swore in the new District Deputies and then declared the meeting closed. It was at that point we all made a sigh of relief in realizing that the Grand Master Tore did not have to step in and point out that we had done something incorrect. In fact, he shared some wonderful, inspirational words and we knew that VASA was in good hands. Then the fun began as pictures were taken with the former and new officers. Grand Master Tore and the new District Master James Ladouceur put the nautical hats, presented by Merlene Mayette PDM, to work in the photos. Sometimes it was quite a job to get the picture by our photographer, Executive Board Member Karen Kane, everyone was having such a good time. The banquet that evening was very enjoyable. The centerpieces were blue tall stemmed drinking glasses hand painted by Kris Zarli – Bloomquist PDM and PGLD sitting on a large blue napkin embroidered by District Master Viviane Valentine – it was a stunning display. The dinner was delicious and the fellowship was Grand! It was the perfect ending to a successful convention. submitted by carl hurtubise
Golden Gate No. 12
We are busy planning and preparing for several upcoming events. The 100th annual District Convention will take place in Stockton, CA on April 24-26, 2015. Nord Lodge #392 is the host lodge for this significant meeting. The annual convention is always a wonderful combination of ceremonies, reports, elections, new business and social events. We pack a lot into just a few days! Our annual Sweden Day is a gathering to celebrate our heritage. This year it is scheduled for May 30, 2015, at Sveadal, a resort in the Santa Cruz mountains. Plans include activities and games, cultural
events, tours of the facility and hikes in the surrounding hills, and lots of good food. This year, we will be presenting the first World Champion Akvavit Competition to be judged by three distinguished gentlemen who all come from Sweden and have culinary training and experience. Awards will be presented for Most Traditional, Best Tasting and Best Presentation. Finally, the Lodge is already gearing up to host the Grand Lodge Convention in 2018. You will be hearing a lot more about that in the future. submitted by judy harless
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district lodge news
the vasa star / Spring 2015
Pacific Southwest No. 15 On January 18th Skandia Lodge No 247, Pasadena, California was jumping with joy. DLPSW No 15 was putting on a party for all of 2015’s incoming Local Lodge officers. It started at 1 p.m. with a social. Everybody was drinking, nibbling goodies and talking. District Master Russell Almquist and his two ladies, wife Karin and young daughter Britt-Marie, were busy in the kitchen cooking up a terrific meal. Pot roast, meatballs and all kinds of greens and reds and taters, of course. Who cooks an “almost Swedish meal” without jordpäron? More members could certainly have attended this fund raising event, but as we all know it is not the size that matters. We were our own entertainment and nobody hushed us. As PDM Gary Spaberg said: we need more of this! DM Russell had some wise words before the installation which was handled by GLD Susan Premo. Everything went nicely, smooth and with a smile. Just the way we like it! District 15’s next event was the yearly Convention, held at the Hilton Hotel in Woodland Hills, February 20, 21 and 22. submitted by nel solt photo by joan johnson
Our 101st Convention! Time flies when you are having fun! The District’s annual Convention is always enjoyable. There are so many great friends to enjoy and so many new friends to be made! This year we were honored to have the company of GM Tore Kellgren and wife Birgitta. PDMs Ulf Brynjestad, Erik Johnson and George Nord flew solo as did GH Alice Iverson, GLD DL PNW No13 Judy Rust, MEB Western region Jeff Klein and our own GLD Susan Premo. Grand Language Director Siv Swan-Pierson, from District 15, attended with husband PDM Wayne Pierson. New District officers were elected. Outgoing DM Russell Almquist of G.T.Seaborg lodge stepped aside for incoming Bertil Winther of Golden Valley lodge. Congratulations to both, for what has been and for what will be. Eleven resolutions were presented and one, a minor one, passed. Friday afternoon offered two seminars, one on Sweden by PGM Ulf Brynjestad and one on Svenska Kyrkan in Los Angeles, earlier known as St Erik’s Church, by Pastor Staffan Eklund. Many attended the District Master’s Reception. It was a rather large and noisy affair with a lot of goodies. The party was hosted by North Star, Skandia, G.T.Seaborg, Golden Valley, Mayflower and Evening Star lodges. Saturday’s banquet was another winner with good food and a great DJ. Many members turned into teens once again showing off many different “dance styles”. Sunday’s lunch is another highlight with scholarship recipients receiving their Diplomas and the results of two popular opportunity drawings. submitted by nel solt
2015 District Officers: Back row (l to r) Inga Francis, Chuck Pages, Maidie Karling, Ernie Mauritson, Nancy Kingston, Bob Solt, Peter Lindgren, DM Bertil Winther, Russell Almquist, Isabella Muscarella, Nel Solt, Gunlog Spaberg, Delphine Trowbridge, Anita Hedlund Front Row (l to r) Ann Heinstedt, Lori Wennbo, Kristine Hofve, Linda Kosvic, Elliott Codding, Valerie Larson, Susan Premo, Ann Hellgren. Photo by:John Vikander
local lodge news Arlington No. 62 budd lake, NJ / On January 2, 2015, Alex Brattstrom a member of Lodge Arlington No. 62, and a Eagle Scout Candidate with Boy Scout Troop 312 in Budd Lake, New Jersey presented his completed Eagle Scout Service Project to Vasa Park President, Mr. Jack Hanright and Vasa Park Pool Chairman, Mr. Ken Kallman. Alex’s project consists of building two Emergency Life Safety Stations located at the Vasa Park Pool. The stations consist of a Ring buoy and protective case, a 50 foot throw rope, a 16 foot reaching pole with a Life hook and a First Aid kit all mounted on a 6x6 pole with a Solar powered light fixture on top.
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The cost of the project is being paid for with donations and all donations raised for the project will go to the project and to Vasa Park. Anyone interested in making a donation to the project may send a donation to: Alex Brattstrom 9 Skansen Drive Hackettstown, NJ, 07840 Please make check payable to: Boy Scout Troop 312. All donations are greatly appreciated. submitted by bruce brattstrom Pictured from left to right: Alex Brattstrom, Mr. Ken Kallman - Vasa Park Pool Chairman and Mr. Jack Hanright - President of Vasa Park.
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local lodge news
Winterl 2015 / the vasa star
Diana Birger Jarl No. 3 new haven, ct / February 27th was our first meeting this year. Presentation by Stephen Bartkus, Curator of Gunn Museum, in Washington, CT. Washington had a large number of Swedes who settled there. He discussed the exhibit and reviewed its content with many items in the exhibit provided by descendants of the original Swedes. The exhibit ran from May 2013 to January 2014. Talks included Swedish history, culture, and Vasa. The area was home to Local Lodge Ankaret No. 380. The exhibit maybe viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/GunnMuseum. Afterwards we enjoyed coffee and dessert with a Dalahäst cake followed by the installation of a new slate of officers. The March meeting featured “Discover the link between Gothenburg, the Swedish
East India Company, and Pea Soup and Pancakes”. The evening commenced with a pea soup pancake dinner. Discussing the history of Gothenburg’s founding and Gothenburg today. Next, the Swedish East India Company which sent ships to China and other Far East ports beginning 1731. It was dissolved in 1813 with all books being burned. Finally, a discussion of Thursday’s pea soup and pancake dinner with the link… Swedish Punsch (Arrack) a Hindi liquor brought back to Gothenburg from these voyages to the Far East. Punsch means 5 in Hindi and is the number of ingredients in Arrack. What would pea soup and pancakes be without Punsch? submitted by paul ljunggren
Stephen Bartkus of the Gunn Museum, Washington, CT
The new Swedish East Indiaman, Gothenburg III.
Landskaps brosch
Inger (Burström) Capalbo wears her traditional dress of the Västerbotten region of northern Sweden at the lodge’s midsummer festival and for various other events.
Tyger för Västerbottensdräkt.
ment in various industries such as the many furniture factories. Today, the Thule lodge continues with its purpose to preserve the jamestown, ny / Hello from Thule Lodge Swedish heritage through events and activi#127 in Jamestown/Bemus Point New ties during the year. The officers for the new York. The winter season has been a long year were recently installed. and cold time for everyone, and all those Our lodge is located at 4123 Pancake in the Thule Lodge are looking forward to Hill Road in Bemus Point, and welcomes the warmer season. The officers met in the visitors. All those in the Thule Lodge wish beginning of the year to make plans for the everyone a wonderful spring and summer new season of 2015. Thule Lodge has been season. If you are in our area, stop and visit on a winter break, and the first meeting of us. “God dag” to all. the year will be in late March. The Thule Lodge #127 was organized 107 years ago submitted by john sipos, to help the Swedish immigrants with their historian move to the United States and become settled. Many Swedish immigrants settled in the Jamestown, NY area finding employ-
Tegner No. 109 scotia, ny / One of the joys of Tegner #109’s Midsummer Festival is enjoying the expression of cultural tradition various members bring to the event. One of our cultural leaders, Inger Capalbo (nee Burström), born 1955 in Jörn in the geographical area of Västerbotten, dons her landskaps dräkt and leads the children in song as we raise and dance around the midsommarstång. “Each geographical area (Landskap) in Sweden has their own specific outfit,” says Inger, “with special rules for how it is made and what materials are to be used. My parents gave each one of us four siblings some money when we graduated from school (9th grade), to be used for something special. I ended up ordering my landskaps dräkt to be made.”
Much of her outfit is of wool with intricate weaving showing lovely Swedish design. The skirt is black wool, the apron sports a striped half-wool Holmöweave of colorful stripes, the square scarf is plaid mercerized cotton, the bodice/vest is striped mostly in blue, the shirt is of linen, and the bind hat is dark blue silk with tambursöm embroderi and trimmed with handmade lace. Black wool socks and sturdy leather shoes complete the outfit along with a special brooch. The brooch Inger wears presents an image of a regional flower of Västerbottens, the “Kung Karls Spira.” Happy midsummer to all! submitted by barbara johnson naple
Thule No. 127
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Back row: Edwin Sandberg, past chairman and past New York District master; Diane Shaw, lodge chaplain; Bernice Veights, assistant mistress of ceremony; Ralph Veights, Wayne Nelson and Tim Miller, all trustee/ auditors; and Donna Johnson, mistress of ceremony. Front row: Sonja Pascatore, cultural leader; Lynne Meyers, recording secretary; Tom Eckberg, lodge chairman; Susan W. Sipos, lodge vice chairman; Loretta Smith, financial secretary/treasurer. John Sipos will continue as the lodge historian.
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local lodge news
the vasa star / Spring 2015
North Star No. 145
Delicious Lenten Buns, “Semlor” made by Tegner #149 members Elsy Mattson and Ingrid Andersson
Tegner No. 149
spokane, wa / On February 21, 2015, our members and guests gathered to watch a historical event. The impressive Initiation Ceremony was performed for eight new members: Tony & Jeanette Olson; Cai Kabrell; Bill Hustrulid; Patty Horne; Jerry Highland; Raina & Curtis Mahon. Three of the new members are all from one family, representing three different generations. Since Sharon Highland joined our lodge two years ago, her grandson, Curtis, has participated in our Midsommar and Lucia programs. When he turned fourteen, he applied for membership and encouraged his grandfather, Jerry, and mother, Raina to also apply, and it quickly became a family affair. It was extra special for our members to witness this, when Sharon became Vice Chairman Pro Tem and administered the solemn promise to all the candidates. With these eight latest members and another four applicants to initiate in May, we’ve added 18 new members since Feb 2014. North Star #145 is growing stronger, staying active, and enjoying all our Swedish programs.
Jerry & Sharon Highland, daughter Raina Mahon and grandson Curtis.
oakland, ca / Tegner Lodge had a very by steve and mary enjoyable program in January. Rosemarie submitted Left to right: Raina Mahon & son Curtis; grandfather Jerry Highland; Patty Horne; matthews Sharon Highland (Vice Chair Pro Tem); Bill Hustrulid; Cai Kabrell; Jeanette & Tony Olson Delahaye and Mark Ryken, dressed in Swedish costumes, presented six different Scandinavian dances, mainly polska and schottis. Their musician was violinist Tim spring. Eva Dunhem led a baking session We then enjoyed it with toppings beyond washington, d.c. / We had three interest- where members made knäckebröd far dif- the usual herring or cheese – cottage cheese Rued. In February, Randy Grandin talked about ing cultural presentations, a pea soup and ferent from the dark pock-marked variety with avocado, pate and cucumbers, salami Alfred Nobel, his life, his accomplishments, plättar dinner, and a social outing in early we are used to. with Brie and sliced red pepper, Kalles Kaand the Nobel prizes. Randy had interestviar and sliced boiled egg. Ione Linke told ing pictures to accompany his presentaus about the Swedish immigrant community tion. In keeping with the season, desserts of Albert City, Iowa, where she grew up and for our March meeting were delicious still has connections to family farms going semlor, baked by members Elsy Mattsson back generations. District Master Margaret and Ingrid Andersson. Then Carol MadiBergvall Schueman presented her research gan, daughter of the late Ruby and Fred about the “Forest Finns” in northern SweNichelini, gave a very interesting talk and den and the important role they played in showed pictures about her Swedish connecSwedish history. tions. Her maternal grandparents came to A social outing to the Flying Dog Brewery America from the island of Öland, Sweden. in Frederick, Maryland, was led by Rodney When Carol’s mother Ruby was 14 years Rydlun, a home brewer and member of old, Ruby and her mother went to Sweden BURP (Brewers United for Real Potables). to visit relatives. Forty years later, when He discussed the history of brewing in the Carol was 14, Carol’s mother took her to U.S. as we waited for the formal tour. The meet the relatives and to see Sweden. Then group lunched together at Brewers’ Alley last summer, about 40 years after her first restaurant, where some enjoyed more than trip to Sweden, Carol, her husband, and just the five beer samplings offered at the two sons went to Sweden to retrace Carol’s brewery. former trip and meet the relatives. A wonFive new members were initiated at the derful trip for all of them. April meeting.
Drott No. 168
submitted by ann tennis
submitted by carol whitley From left is Sofia Strömberg, visitor, Karin McCabe, next to her is her granddaughter Ellie McCabe, and Lodge Chairman Eric Randolph.
member for many years, holding the post of Chaplain. Cultural Leader Betty Rottman showed photos of the 150th anniversary rockford, il / Fifteen members of our in 2002 of the arrival of the first Swedish VASA Brahe Lodge #245 met at VASA Park immigrants to Rockford and spoke about in Rockford on a beautiful spring afternoon 1952’s 100th anniversary of the arrival on April 26, 2015. After a business meeting, of Rockford’s first Swedish immigrants. David Tollin, auditor, also reviewed the Refreshments were provided by Gunnel VASA Park insurance, announcing reducStewart and Jean Berggren. The District #8 tions on lesser buildings which will reduce Convention in Kalamazoo, MI falls in May, our annual insurance bill. A potential buyer so there won’t be a lodge meeting; the next was interested in viewing the park but it was Brahe Lodge meeting will be at VASA Park “snowed in” so was not able to do so. We at 2 p.m. on June 28, 2015. remembered 97-year-old Susana Turning, who died recently. She had been a faithful submitted by dennis g. eksten
Brahe No. 245
A smiling Gunnel Stewart with her semlor and fruit dish at April’s Brahe Lodge meeting.
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local lodge news
Winterl 2015 / the vasa star
Svea No. 253 indianapolis, in / Bucky Poppleton was initiated in January; the charter was draped for Sophia Anderson, who died in December. Officers for 2015 were installed. The program consisted of facts, news and topics that every Swede should know. Find Scandinavians in Indianapolis on Facebook at https:// facebook.com/svea253. Amy Johnson is manager: archaeoalj@gmail.com. The Luncheon Group dined at the Castleton Grill. Rebecca Wiebke, born in Varberg, Sweden, was initiated in February. She is the daughter of Ingrid Wiebke. Delegates for the 2015 District Convention are: Jean Tygum, Dennis Danielson, Scott Clarkson and Carol Clarkson. Brenda Miller presented “A Selection Of Popular Swedish Literature
In English” and included information about prizewinners, bestsellers, famous Swedish authors. The Luncheon Group met at Mike’s Café. Glenn Carlstrand was initiated in March. Annette Johansson presented “Swedish Summers by Lake Vättern”. It is a long, finger-shaped body of fresh water in south central Sweden, famous for its pure and transparent water, and known for the annual cycling race Vätternrundan, which attracts 20,000 participants to the 300 km trip along the lakeshore. The Luncheon Group met at Rolling In The Dough. submitted by joella hultgren
Clockwise from above: Brenda Miller presented “A Selection Of Popular Swedish Literature In English” / Carin Young presented “Facts About Sweden, Swedes, and Interesting Swedish Trivia” / Annette Johansson presented “Swedish Summers by Lake Vättern.”
Svea No. 296
erie, pa / The annual Lucia festival was held December 14, 2014, at Luther Memorial Church in Erie. Les Fobes, delightful tomte, and his little tomtar always charm the congregation and get them in the spirit of a Swedish Christmas celebration. As always a special afternoon of hymns, legends, songs and the Lucia procession. A gift was offered by the lodge in honor of Linda Collin, former Svea Lodge Vasa Star reporter, who died December 23, 2013. A check for $492 was raised at our Luciafest, thanks to Lodge member Joanne Dahlstrand and the Take Action fundraising offered by Thrivent Financial. This provided refreshments for the celebration and allowed the entire freewill offering to go to our youth for their National Youth Gathering trip to Detroit, Michigan in July 2015. The youth at Luther Memorial play an important part of our Luciafest and without them this event would not be successful. We are proud to be able to help the youth who could be future VASA members.
SVEA Lodge is proud to introduce our newest member, Tyler Richard Keller. Tyler has been active in the lodge, participating in Luciafests since he was very young. He is the grandson of past Grand Treasurer, C. Richard Overberg. Tyler is graduating from McDowell High School and plans to attend Penn State Behrend this fall. submitted by lucia doyle and dorothy overberg
The entire Lucia procession (youth from Lutheran Memorial) at the festive table including Lucia Ellie Cadden and star boy Brennan Coleman.
Jerry Keller, Beth Keller, Tyler Keller, Cheryl Brown, Dorothy Overberg.
Maria Brown, Caleb DiCenzo, Hannah Heutsche, Rebecca Brown, Sara Prylinski,Chase Rowland, Beth Keller, Terry Hokaj
Kronan No. 433 st paul, mn / As part of Minnesota District No. 7, Kronan Lodge celebrated its 92nd year at the annual holiday gathering on Dec. 13, 2014. We met for brunch at Perkin’s Restaurant in Vadnais Heights, and as the pictures tell you, everyone had a grand time celebrating. The cake looked and tasted marvelous.
submitted by kendra nielsen photography: bruce nielsen
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local lodge news
the vasa star / Spring 2015
Klippan No. 228 and Frihet Lodge No. 401
Names of 2015 Officers (from left) Elaine Johnson, Cris and Susanna Rosario, Delores Gildea, Liza Ekstrand–Chairman, Marianne Ekstrand, Jan Kamholtz, Brent Erickson, Rolf Ekstrand, Les Touve, Dave Tollin– District Deputy. Missing Marge Gruel.
Linde No. 492 milwaukee, wi / While the lodge is keeping a low profile during the winter we have been busy preparing reports: financial, historical and cultural reports for 2014 that have all been submitted to the District. But more so, our new Culture Leaders Cris and Susanna Rosario have been busy helping prepare an interesting agenda for 2015. Topics such as Scandinavian Design/Architecture, Carl Larsson’s life and work, and Moomin Trollen are just a few examples. We are also hoping a road trip to Minneapo-
Seattle, wa / The 2014 Lucia event featured Lucia Mia Cantu and her Lucia-Tärnor and Stjärngosse at the Frihet Lodge No 401 and Klippan No 228 event in Seattle. submitted by Ms. Alana Brandstrom
lis in September will materialize. A Kräftskiva on August 22 and Scandinavian Festival, with an ABBA Salute on October 3 are well attended events and open for the public. Both these events in New Berlin, WI. At our March meeting, we welcomed our new member Amanda Robison, the wellknown Vasa Star editor. Installation of of-
Amanda Robison initiated by Past Chairman Brent Erickson and Chairman Liza Ekstrand.
ficers took place, too. Members Allan and Linda Stemark are planning an 8-day Göta Kanal trip in Sweden this summer, and we look forward to their report. Let us know if you want to join us (as you are always
welcome) at any of these events: lekstrand@ wi.rr.com or (262) 366-9152. Submitted by liza ekstrand
Lindbergh No. 494 los altos , ca / December 18 the Jul festivities began with over 100 members and guests sharing glögg and holiday greetings. After a brief business meeting, and introductions of the many guests, the slate of officer nominations was presented, accepted and unanimously approved. In the dining room a large decorated julgran stood at the front, decorated dining tables held green garlands and tea lights, and two tables of Swedish specialties created the smörgåsbord. Lights were dimmed and the Lucia procession entered singing Santa Lucia. St. Niklas also arrived and gave a gift to each child. Dancing around the Christmas tree and singing completed the occasion. Over 60 members and guests attended the meeting January 9. After the meal, the incoming officers from Lindbergh and Svea Lodges were brought to the front of the hall and the oaths of office administered. Grand Master, Tore Kellgren, presented the new password. After the meeting on February 13, some 60 members and guests adjourned to the dining hall to enjoy a supper of Swedish yellow pea soup with strawberries for dessert. Our guest speaker, author Stina Katchadourian, reported her experiences as a child during World War II in Scandinavia. These experiences had inspired her to write The Lapp King’s Daughter.
submitted by betsy Nilson
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Filling the chairs for installation
Members from two lodges line up for food
Atlanta’s Fifth Annual Swedish Schnapps Song Contest
Nordic No. 708
atlanta, ga / It’s that time again! Well, entries do not need to be provided to us until August 15th, but it’s never too early to start thinking about them! This is the fifth time that Atlanta’s Nordic Lodge # 708 announces this contest. The interest in writing Swedish “snapsvisor” in English is widening every year. Two years ago the winning schnapps song came from Illinois. Last year the winner was from California. What about Canada this time? Or Alaska. Or Hawaii. Or maybe Atlanta. After all, the vast majority of incoming entries come from our own city. The result will be revealed at the Nordic Lodge Crawfish party on August 22nd, 2015, in Atlanta. Consequently the theme of this year’s contest will be “crawfish”, which means that the
word “crawfish” (or crayfish) must be included in the text. And we can promise that the participants at this crawfish party will do their best in singing as many of the incoming entries as possible! Here are the rules: * Write a Swedish Style Schnapps Song, in English. * Theme: The word “crawfish” or “crayfish” must be included in the text. * You are welcome to provide more than one entry. * Requirements for a good Swedish “snapsvisa”: 1. It must be written to a well-known melody so that everyone can sing along, Swedes as well as Americans. 2. It must be short. Between four and eight lines is good, more than that is too long. 3. It should be about schnapps, or at least related to the drinking of a schnapps. Don’t
write about whisky, beer or wine! 4. The lines should be put into rhyme. (Reasonably). The winner will receive a check in the amount of $50.00. The judges this year will be Prof. Jay Lutz and Dr. Sten Ekberg. Entries must be received by Saturday August 15th, 2015. Do this: Put your entry – but NOT your name on that sheet! – in an envelope without the sender’s name and mail it to Jan Rygert, 4390 Ivywood Dr, NE, Marietta, GA 30062. Include a smaller envelope including the title of the song outside, and your name and address and email inside. submitted by göran rygert
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local lodge news
Winterl 2015 / the vasa star
Phoenix No. 677
phoenix, az / January meeting had installa-
Vinland No. 703
cape cod , ma /On a frigid January day, Massachusetts District No. 2 Deputy Larry Stidsen conducted our 2015 Installation of Officers. We welcomed Marilyn Sohoel, Dorothy Kean, Gerd Hedlund, Jan Voelker, Virginia MacNamara, Dorothy Kean, Lorraine Young, Cameron Blomdahl and Judith Peterson. Marilyn thanked Judith Peterson for her wonderful and inspiring leadership as Chairman for four terms. Ed and Cameron Blomdahl, our seasoned auctioneers, conducted our Pound, Pint, and Yard Auction. There were many laughs and surprising gifts of i.e. Swedish beverages and bananas! A winter storm caused us to cancel our February meeting, but for the 15th year we proudly shared our Scandinavian
tion of officers, welcoming Keith Anderson as the new chairman of Phoenix Lodge 677, and our new chaplain Carl Bender. Our program was an array of crafts made in Sweden brought for viewing by members. February a special program as the Scandinavian Dancers performed their spirited dances for an appreciative audience. It was a treat for us, and the dancers seemed to have as much fun as the members had watching. The final ring dance included some of our members. Along with the entertainment we had a tasty potluck lunch. March featured an interesting program by Ann Levig from Solstad Lodge in Sun City. Ann had visited the northern part of Sweden, home to the Sami people. The Sami live in four different countries, northern Finland, Sweden, Norway and Russia, speaking the language of the country lived in. They call their land Sápmi and are united in their colorful costumes and traditions. Our April meeting will present the 51st Anniversary celebration with traditional openfaced sandwiches and special cake to commemorate the occasion. Memberships will be celebrated with certificates or pins las vegas, nv / The few members and denoting the years of belonging to VASA. former members of our lodge would like May will be the last meeting before summer to formally say “Thank You” to Carl-Uno break. We will serve a salad bar and a video Manros for all he has done in trying to keep about the National Archives in Bishop Hill. Valhalla #715 “in business.” He has gone over and above in this regard but came up submitted by romy solomonson against “no new members,” with the old ones
Valhalla No. 715
heritage at the Multi-Cultural Fair at Cape Convention, and handbell choir director Cod Community College on February 28. and musician Thom Dutton enthralled us We distributed 80 packets of travel brochures with folk music and Viking influence on his and explained cultural items, books and harp. Our Jelly Belly Candy Walk benefitted foods as our tall Maypole attracted visitors. our Lodge Scholarship Fund amid giggles We initiated new member, Karen Anderson, and surprises. at our March meeting, and Gerd Hedlund Upcoming events: Annual Swedish meatpresented a narrative of her childhood ball luncheon in May and June Midsummer memories of Lent and Easter in Sweden. Fest. At our April meeting, Lynne Martin provided information on September’s District submitted by dorothy ann-ellner kean getting OLDER and not being able to support the lodge, with their attendance or with finances. He is still keeping us informed over the Internet about what goes on here in the USA, Sweden and the other Scandinavian countries, and it is very much appreciated by those of us who are still here. So we say TACK SÅ MYCKET CARLUNO!
(Lodge Valhalla #715 started in 1975 and dissolved at the end of 2012. Carl-Uno was the Chairman.) submitted by by isabella muscarella, district secretary pacific southwest no 15 and evy hannelius and ingabritt barnes, las vegas
Wishing all Vasa brothers and sisters
Family Tree Släktutredningar
Lake Michigan District 8
I am a member of the Vasa Order in Sweden and an expert in Swedish genealogy. Over the years I have helped many Vasa members to find their roots in Sweden. If you want my help to find your Swedish ancestors, please email me for further information: swedengen@telia.com
Glad Midsommar!
in memoriam in 1930, he as a young man served Larson. She joined Nobel-Monitor in the Royal Cavalry, proudly guard- #130 in Cleveland OH on November ing the King’s Palace in Gamla Stan. 11, 1990. He immigrated to Canada and then OREGON STIG INGVAR ANDERSON, a to Arizona where he became a U.S. member of Nobel Lodge #288 since citizen, went to college and taught 1990, died on September 28, 2014. English. John joined Phoenix Lodge ROZETTA CARPENTER died Jan. Stig was born February 29, 1932 in #677 during its first year and then 27, 2015 in Forest Grove and was Arvika, Sweden to Julius and Ellen was active in Scandinavian groups born in Iowa on Oct. 11, 1922. She Andersson. He immigrated to the U.S. in Raleigh where he moved to in joined Nobel Lodge #184 in Portland in 1950 and owned Stig Anderson 1977. With his third wife, Ruth, he on Dec. 5, 1980 and was an active and Son Painting and Decorating founded Carl Larsson Lodge #739 in and enthusiastic member serving as ARIZONA Co. for more than 40 years. He was 1986, and served in many leadership Chairman, Recording Secretary, Vasa active in Nobel Lodge and served as roles. He was beloved by many, and Star Rep. and Master of Ceremonies. PATRICIA ANN DAHLIN, age a guard and trustee for many years. he shared his love for Sweden with 79, died on March 4, 2015. She was He was a woodworker, he loved to everyone in Vasa – his Swedish home TEXAS buried in The National Cemetery of cook, and he played several instru- in America. John is survived by his Arizona in Phoenix. She leaves behind ments - including the accordion, son, James, his brother, Bosse and his JAMES WALENTA died January her husband, Don, of Prescott, AZ and his favorite, at many events. Stig is family in Sweden. 15, 2015 at the age of 88. He was born many other family members in Illinois. preceded in death by his parents, his in Elroy, TX. He joined Carl Widen She was a member of the Scandia wife Florence, and five brothers and OHIO Lodge #743 on Oct 22, 2001. He served Lodge #728 since January of 2003. as chaplain for seven years, a trustee sisters. He is survived by two sisters in Sweden, his son and daughter, ANNABELLE J. LARSON, age and auditor. He is survived by wife ILLINOIS five granddaughters and six great- 89, beloved wife of the late Paul W. Nelda, two sons and two grandchildren. Larson. Dear mother of Amy E Johngrandchildren. JEROME F. ANDERSON, age 90, WASHINGTON son, James E. Larson, and the late died November 27, 2014 in Batavia. NORTH CAROLINA Kurt A. Larson. dear grandmother He was born January 21, 1924 in Elof Christopher P. Johnson, Andres R. ELVERA NOLDE died on Oct. 27, gin, IL. He joined Viljan Lodge #349, JOHN ALLINGER, 83, died on Johnson and Benjamin P. Johnson, 2014 in Olympia. She was born in Batavia in January 1996 and was an May 27, 2014. Born in Stockholm Sophia M. Larson and John Paul Portland, OR on July 28, 1924 and Memorial Notices should be mailed with check or money order to The Vasa Star, PO Box 13331, Milwaukee, WI 53213-0331.Email: vasaeditor@gmail. com. The fee is $8 for one column inch. Longer obituaries will be charged a flat fee of $25.00. All notices must be typed and in a format similar to what you see here. No newspaper clippings If you submitted an Obituary and it is not listed here, please resubmit to be included in the following issue..
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active member. He is survived by his wife Helen, five children, 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
was a member of Nobel Lodge #184, joining December 17, 1976. As an active member, Elvera held many offices. To be closer to her daughter, she moved to Olympia and became a dual member in Vasa by joining Olympia Lodge #550. CANADA
RUTH K. BERGQUIST, 98, died February 7, 2015, at Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Ruth is survived by her daughter, Anna (Ken) Cook of Blaine, WA, seven grandchildren, 15 greatgrandchildren and three great-greatgrandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Edvin, son Gerald, daughter and son-in-law Evelyn and Don Hazlewood, grandson David and sister Mildred. She will be remembered for the many years she served as a Cultural Leader for the Children’s Club and Vasa Children’s Camp, where she provided Swedish language instruction and accompanied singers and folk dancers on her violin. Ruth joined Local Lodge Skandia #549 on October 1, 1938.
page 29
the district vasa starlodge / Spring 2015 news
local lodge news
Swedish news Höganäs No. 634 höganäs,sweden / Logen i Höganäs höll årets första möte lördagen den 24 januari 2015, med installation av nyvalda tjänstemän. O Br Karl-Axel Bengtsson hälsade vår DD Br Rolf Hansson med stab från Nybyggarna nr 698 välkomna till högtidsmötet. En tyst minut påbjöds för avlidne Broder Bo Högstedt. Installation av nya tjänstemän och ordförande Sy Birgit Olsson fick mottaga ordförandeklubban. Sy Birgit tackade för en stilfull installation. Avgående tjänstemän mottog en blomsterbukett av nytillträdda ordföranden. Mötet avslutades med högtidlig ljussläckningsceremoni. Traditionsenligt utbringade nyvalda VO Sy Inger Bengtsson kvällens första skål för Konung, Karl XVI Gustav, och Kungssången sjöngs. Stämningen var hög vid borden och snart tog dansen vid. Systrarnas afton den 14 mars 2015 O Sy Birgit öppnade mötet och välkomnade 62 Vasasyskon och Ordenssyskon från Kärnan nr 608 och Nybyggarna nr 698. KL Br Hans Bogren rapporterade från vår och grannlogernas satsning att marknadsföra Orden på Väla köpcenter. Aktiviteten pågick under två dagar och många intresserade tog del av Vasa Ordens mål och syfte. Förhoppningsvis kan detta tillföra logerna nya medlemmar. Han framförde hälsningar från vänlogen Golden Valley nr 616 i Californien. BLH Br Lars-Olof Strufve berättade om betydelser av namnet Ferguson i USA. En läcker vårsupé av lax med citronsås, kaffe och kaka intogs. Systrarna gjorde en bejublad entré med ett frågesport program från olika år. Alla gissade vilt under glada skratt. Efter dans och lottdragning avslutade vi en trevlig vasakväll.
Gäster införes vid högtidsmötet
Finanssekreterare och kassör
Standarbärare och Vice Ordförande
submitted by hans bogren kulturledare
The Grand Master’s Message (Swedish) Kära Vasasyskon, ”Säsongen för Distriktsmöten” är i full gång. När du läser detta har Birgitta och jag i år redan besökt fem eller sex distriktsmöten. I skrivande stund har vi just kommit hem från distriktsmötet Rhode Island #3, vilket hölls sista helgen i mars i Saunderstown RI. En härlig plats inte långt från Atlantkusten. Vi fick lite snö mellan lördag och söndag vilket för oss var en rolig upplevelse, eftersom vi annars nästan aldrig ser snö på marken. Men våra värdar förstod nog inte riktigt vår entusiasm, efter deras väldigt långa vinter i år. Birgitta och jag ser nu fram emot vårt distriktsmöte här i norra Kalifornien och sedan resan till Sverige där vi kommer att övervara båda distriktsmötena. Vi kommer också ha lite tid att se släkt och vänner. Jag hoppas att ni alla presenterar bra och intressanta program på era möten. Jag vet att jag har sagt det tidigare, men jag tycker det är värt att upprepa. Det är viktigt att ha program som engagerar medlemmar och gäster. Jag hoppas också att ni håller era medlemmar informerade om alla planerade program för året. Tänk också på att annonsera i er lokaltidning. Det är ofta gratis, och även om en tidningsannons kan tyckas lite gammalmodigt, så finns det många som kommer
page 30
att se den och då kan nås på detta sätt. Jag läser alla era rapporter i Vasastjärnan och ser att ni har haft många bra program och avnjutet god mat på era möten. Jag ser däremot sällan, om någonsin, att ni nämner vad ni planerar att göra på framtida möten. En artikel i Vasastjärnan är ett bra tillfälle för gratis publicitet och jag rekommenderar det verkligen. Kom bara ihåg, du som skriver, att du måste tänka 3 – 6 månader in i framtiden för att informationen fortfarande skall vara aktuellt när tidningen kommer ut. Vår nya Vasa databas är redo att tas i bruk. Därför kommer jag att be alla distriktssekreterare att fylla i och skicka in medlemsinformation. Varje lokal Loge kommer sedan att ha tillgång till sin medlemsinformation på databasen. Den kommer att vara tillgänglig på webben där den lösenordsskyddade informationen kan enkelt uppdateras och användas. Med databasen kommer den årliga rapporteringen om medlemskap att kunna göras automatiskt. Logen har också en plats att annonsera kommande evenemang och ha möjlighet att sätta upp OSA till möten där det är lämpligt. Vi kommer att ge ut mycket mer information om detta när denna nya funktion kommer igång. I USA arbetar vi med svenska företag för att
få specialerbjudanden för våra medlemmar. Detaljer om detta kommer att publiceras direkt till distriktssekreterarna för distribution till alla loger. Dessvärre har vi hittills inte fått fram något liknande i Sverige eller i Kanada. Som jag sagt i flera tidigare meddelanden måste vi uppdatera vår hemsida. Därför frågar jag igen om vi har en webbdesigner inom Vasa som är intresserad av att utforma en ny webbplats och integrera den med vår nya webb databas (se ovan). Den första uppgiften är att skriva en specifikation i samarbete med våra Database Designer och vår Database Director. Det finns inget krav på att vara expert på HTML. Vi har ett företag som kommer att ta hand om det till ett mycket rimligt pris. Vi måste också hitta någon som kan arbeta med vår nuvarande Web Master med avsikt att ta över den positionen i framtiden. Jag hoppas någon är villig och kapabel att göra detta för Orderns Väl. Om du är intresserad eller om du vet någon medlem som kan vara intresserad i endera av dessa positioner, kontakta mig eller låt mig veta vem jag ska kontakta.
Family Tree Släktutredningar I am a member of the Vasa Order in Sweden and an expert in Swedish genealogy. Over the years I have helped many Vasa members to find their roots in Sweden. If you want my help to find your Swedish ancestors, please email me for further information: swedengen@telia.com
i sanning och enighet, tore kellgren, grand master
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