nordstjernan The Swedish Newspaper of America
Published by Swedish News. Volume 143 No. 11, June 15, 2015. Price per copy $2.50
Cruising the Baltic
Midsummer events in all of Swedish America.
Cruise lines exploring the Baltic include Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Coastal Voyages and many more—some deluxe (or posh to use a seafaring term), others more focused on the travel experience or stop overs. Story and list of resources / Page 6
Photo: Bo Zaunders
Sweden, Page 2, 3
Sweden boasts another MelodifestivalenEurovision song contest winner / After time in Stockholm the growing family of Princess Madeleine and Chris O’Neill have found their next hometown / FIFA scores for women / The Pippi Långstrump (Pippi Longstocking) brand continues to be profitable for the family of the creator / Is Swedish police discriminating?
Dashboard, Page 10-11
Another Swedish Chef / Watch the royal wedding webcast by Swedish TV / The designer of Swedish American Hall.
Sweden Day at Sveadal Ted Olsson, San Francisco ted@nordstjernan.com
Where do you turn when you’re thirsty for a sip of akvavit (aquavit)? There are just so many choices and so much inspiration. At least that’s what everyone felt at this year’s aquavit championship in Sveadal, the Swedish American Patriotic League’s beautiful mountain park near San Jose. This third year’s competition, growing yearly, billed itself as the First International Akvavit Competition (or to give it its due: the “Akvavit Kryddat Brännvin World Championship”). It was Vasa District Lodge (Golden Gate) #12’s annual Sweden Day celebration, held a week early to accommodate everyone. The international flavor was a tribute to the panel of the three judges: Originally all three of them were to be Swedish chefs who know a thing or two about aquavit, but Lars Nordell (former master chef Continued on page 4
Page 6
Food, Page 6
After last week’s twist on Midsummer menus roving food writer Gunilla Blixt pinpoints the latest Swedish summer trends in food.
Dashboard, Page 10-11
Springtime in Sweden, a time of holidays and celebrations. Next up: Walpurgis Eve.
Local Events, Page 13-18
Celebrations from sea to shining sea... The Akvavit Judges: Roberth Sundell, Alexander Hult, Ben Hutchinson. Photo: Scott A. Schulkin
A Swedish Midsommar
Nothing comes close ...flowers, music, dance and the long hours of sunlight and joy. 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. See our listing on page 14 to find an event near you and remember to check online, at www.nordstjernan.com under ‘Events’ as we get close to the actual date. Wishing you all Glad Midsommar!
Sports, Page 19
After a silver medal in 2003 and a bronze medal in 2011, the Swedish women’s national soccer team have its eyes on the gold.
Page 12
Photo: Dag Bennstrom/ww.dagomatic.net
This Week, Page 14
news in brief. page 2
Swedish News Sänk inte garden mot Ryssland det leder till om vi hela tiden rustar upp”. Vad Sjöstedt därmed bortser ifrån är att Sydsvenska Dagbladet Sverige under de senaste decennierna 25 maj 2015 har avvecklat större delen av det natioDen stora militära flygövningen på nella försvaret. Den militära förmågan svenskt territorium är ingen provokation har inriktats på samarbete med andra mot Kreml, utan helt i linje med tidigare länder och deltagande i internationella försvarspolitik. operationer. Massiva militära muskler. Storleken Övningar tillsammans med Finland drar uppmärksamhet till den militära och Norge är numera vardagsmat för flygövningen Arctic Challenge Exercise, svenska försvaret och det nordiska saACE 15, som inleddes på måndagen. marbetet utgör grunden för ACE 15 som Sverige, Norge och Finland står som har planerats i två år. Övningsscenariot arrangörer, ytterligare sex länder och är dessutom “en internationell fredssammanlagt 115 militärflygplan deltar. främjande krishanteringsinsats under Större delen av övningsområdet är sven- FN-mandat.” skt och flera av deltagarna är Natoländer. Någon ny svensk säkerhetspolitisk Fram till slutet av nästa vecka kommer kurs rör det sig alltså inte om – storövnintidvis 90 plan att dundra genom luften gen ligger helt i linje med väl inkörda samtidigt. spår. ACE 15 har kallats för världens största Inte heller innebär den någon ny hållnflygövning, men faktum är att Ryssland ing till försvarsalliansen Nato. härförleden genomförde en övning som “Övningarna med Nato har pågått var dubbelt så stor. Det påminner om hur sedan 90-talet och vi gjorde egentligen säkerhetsläget i Europa har förändrats samma sak under kalla kriget”, påminner sedan våren 2014. Jacob Westberg, lektor vid FörsvarshögMed Rysslands annektering av Krim skolan, i Aftonbladet. och smygkrigande i östra Ukraina har En försvarspolitik som bygger på hotbilden förändrats rejält till det sämre. samarbete med andra länder kräver Mot den bakgrunden beskriver vissa de- rimligtvis också stora övningar för att battörer nu ACE 15 som en fullständigt samverkan ska fungera väl om och när onödig provokation mot Moskva. den verkligen behövs. I sammanhanget “Jag tror att det här minskar säker- kan nämnas att ACE 15 följs av årliga heten”, varnar V-ledaren Jonas Sjöstedt övningen Baltops – med sjutton deli SVT. Han ställer sig också frågan “vad tagarländer – som Sverige har deltagit Gästledare
Sweden boasts another Eurovision contest winner - singer and formerAllsång host Måns Zelmerlöw with the song Heroes.
Melodi Grand Prix 2015
(Melodifestivalen 2015) Hundreds of fans went to Arlanda airport on Sunday to welcome home Sweden’s newest hero: Eurovision winner Måns Zelmerlöw. Eyes all over Europe were watching on Saturday, May 23 when the Eurovision Song Contest finals took place in Vienna, Austria. Måns Zelmerlöw, 28, a pop singer from Lund, was one of the favorites among the 40 countries competing, singing “Heroes,” a catchy, uptempo song that’s gotten popular in Stockholm. But most of all it was Zelmerlöw’s stage show that no doubt played a part in his sweeping victory in Eurovision, known in Sweden as Melodifestivalen. He won the competition ahead of Russia and Italy, and Zelmerlöw still can’t quite believe what he has achieved: “When you consider that Eurovision has been going on for 60 years and we only had five Swedish winners until now, then it becomes very apparent that this is great.” And his fans can’t agree more.
New address for Swedish royal
In early February, Chris O’Neill, 40, and Princess Madeleine, 32, moved from New York to Sweden. They expected the move would be temporary while they tried to identify the best place to settle down after their second baby is born in June. While Princess Madeleine and Leonore, 1, are living in an apartment owned by the royal family in central Stockholm, it was just announced that her husband has already moved to their next hometown: London. Chris O’Neill’s business is primarily in England, and he has family there — his mother lives in central London, and his sister lives just outside the city. The royal family wants very much to be together, and Chris comes to Stockholm as much as possible. All four of them are expected to settle in London together this fall. Meanwhile, they are preparing for the imminent birth of their second child … which could very well be the day of Prince Philip’s wedding, June 13.
FIFA scores a goal for women
In the shadow of FIFA (The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the international governing body of what Americans know as soccer) officials being arrested on corruption charges, the recent announcement that female players will finally be featured in EA Sports videogame series Fifa 16 has been very well received. All over the globe soccer is the most popular game for players and fans alike. The new game features 12 international all-female teams, including Sweden and the U.S. American Alex Morgan sees it as an honor to be represented in this previously all-men video game. And though it’s not explicitly written anywhere, Swedes take for granted that they will finally be able to score as Lotta Schelin and Hanna Folkesson when the game is released in September.
Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
i vid 23 tillfällen. Visst sätter ett ändrat säkerhetsläge det tidigare rutinmässiga i ny dager – Kreml kommer säkert att muttra en del om den pågående storövningen. Men de som kallar den en onödig provokation från svensk sida borde ställa sig frågan om det vore rimligare att byta försvarspolitiskt spår till följd av hotfullt ryskt agerande. De skarpaste hoten riktas mot tidigare sovjetrepubliker, men ryskt stridsflyg har också ökat sin närvaro över Östersjön och flög så sent som i förra veckan provocerande nära Öland. Med en försämrad hotbild i närområdet är det knappast läge för svenska försvaret att börja sänka garden. Som försvarsforskaren Peter Mattsson påpekar i DN måste Sverige snarast markera gott samarbete med grannländerna för att upprätthålla den geopolitiska balansen. “Vi behöver inte vara ensamma om det händer någonting. Det är en viktig signal Sverige skickar till Ryssland”, säger han. Det budskapet hade också den svenska regeringen gott kunnat grunna på lite mer. För formellt är hjälp från Nato vid behov snarare en förhoppning än ett faktum. Trots sin nära relation till den stora försvarsalliansen är Sverige alltjämt ett litet land utan några försvarsgarantier. ACE 15 innebär inget ytterligare närmande till Nato. Däremot kunde Sverige gott utreda vad ett medlemskap skulle innebära.
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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 3
Sweden at The Forum on Global Cities Sweden’s Former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Carl Bildt was in the U.S. for The Chicago Forum on Global Cities on May 27-29. Bildt, who can be credited for kicking off the internet revolution in Sweden, was among many experts from around the globe to drive political, social and economic policies and solve critical world challenges. The three-day forum brought together leaders in the major pillars of urban life — business innovators, education visionaries, cultural luminaries, civic pioneers — to discuss how they can collaborate to improve their cities and the world. Among forums on world economic drivers, the importance of art education, the foreign policy of cities, sustainability and security, Bildt discussed how technology can transform cities. It was during his term as prime minister that he insisted government offices begin using digital media to build resources and communicate, eventually enabling the collection and sharing of data on a range of critical urban challenges, from crime and congestion, to pollution and power-usage. Metrics show fascinating new insights into how cities function and hold the potential for smarter, more responsive policymaking. Bildt discussed the challenges in obtaining quality data for global analysis, how city leaders can reconcile the collection of big data with individual and international privacy laws, and how cities engage their communities through technology to participate in the advancement of society. See more at #globalcities2015 and http://www.chicagoforum.org
Pippi Långstrump. The Pippi Longstocking brand continues to be a gold mine. Illustration by Ingrid Vang Nyman. Courtesy of Saltkråkan AB.
Pippi has gold in her suitcase
Surprise visitors at the Swedish American Museum on May 27: KREAB Executive Chairman Peje Emilsson, Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt and Stockholm Chamber of Carl Bildt and The Swedish American Museum’s Commerce CEO Maria Lesli Proffitt Nordström at the Chicago Forum on Rankka. Global Cities on May 28.
Swedish Schnapps Song Contest Atlanta’s Nordic Lodge #708 is holding this contest for the fifth time. The result will be revealed at the Nordic Lodge Crawfish Party in Atlanta on August 22, 2015. Because of this, the theme of the contest will be “crawfish,” which means the word “crawfish” (or “crayfish”) must be included in the text of the song. And we can promise that the participants at the party will do their best in singing as many of the entries as possible! Rules: * Write a Swedish style schnapps song in English. * You must include the theme word (“crawfish” or “crayfish”) in the text.
Swedish News
* You are welcome to provide more than one entry. * Requirements for a good Swedish snaps visa include: 1. It must be written to a well-known melody so 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.) Entries must be received by Saturday
August 15, 2015. The winner will receive eternal honor and admiration and a check in the amount of $50.00. The judges this year are Prof. Jay Lutz and Dr. Sten Ekberg. Put your entry — but NOT your name — on a sheet of paper. Place it in an envelope without your return address and mail it to Jan Rygert, 4390 Ivywood Dr., NE, Marietta, GA 30062. Inside that envelope, include a smaller envelope with the title of the song on the outside, and your name, address and email listed inside.
NORDSTJERNAN: Alltid mer att läsa—There’s always more to read! Call 1.800.827.9333 for your own copy.
The Pippi Långstrump (Pippi Longstocking) brand, created by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, has been well managed in the 70 years since the red headed, unnaturally strong girl and her monkey Mr. Nilsson were introduced to the world of children’s literature. The overall profit of the company is approximately SEK 200 million ($23,840,400). Pippi Longstocking is a gold mine: “She is the main character in many ways, including financially,” says Saltkråkans CEO Olle Nyman, grandson of Astrid Lindgren. Unlike Pippi who was very generous, “Pippi’s brand has been relatively controlled and limited,” according to brand expert Niklas Turner Olovzon. It is therefore keeping its value a long time, and Lindgrens beneficiaries could each stand to get SEK 9.5 million ($1,132,400) in dividends.
The Swede who asked to be deported
A 24-year-old from Stockholm was on holiday in Malta, but when it was time to return home, he had no money to buy a plane ticket. He came up with a solution: He walked into the police station on May 25 and asked to be deported back to Sweden. The Swede stated that he was broke and homeless, and threatened to commit crimes. After he was refused deportation, he attacked police officers and is now suspected of multiple crimes and sitting in jail — in Malta. According to local press, the tourist vandalized a police car and injured two police officers. He refused to be assigned a public defender but demanded Swedish representation, not yet granted. He remains in jail, but the Swedish Foreign Ministry is aware of the case and the Swedish Consulate in Malta is monitoring the case.
Swedish police guilty of discrimination?
The police administration in Stockholm has been accused of discriminating against candidates who apply to become police officers. Despite the fact that it is illegal in Sweden to discriminate on grounds of ethnic background, more than 100 people in the last four years found cause to file papers in opposition to the Police Authority’s handling of their application. Four male applicants’ law suits were settled outside of court prior to a final hearing by the Supreme Court and the assessment by the plaintiffs’ representative was harsh: “The police have effectively admitted that they have discriminated on grounds of gender and ethnic background,” Clarence Crafoord, chief legal counsel for the Center for Justice wrote in an Op-Ed in Swedish daily Expressen.
The Exchange Rate: $1.00 = SEK 8.32 06.03.2015
June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
The Pacific states. page 4
Vasa District #12 celebrates Sweden Day with many a skål Swedish flag and anthem and then a singing of “Du gamla, du fria.” Local members of Vasa USA’s Grand Lodge were even in attendance — Grand Master Tore Kjellgren and his wife Birgitta attended the opening ceremony, as did the treasurer of the Grand Lodge, Keith Hanlon and his wife, Emma. Everyone then was invited to lunch.
Nycken concert
The 2015 Akvavit Champs: (l-r) Jim Melin, Catherine Lipscomb, Greta Anderson, Bob Olson, David Jansson with admirer. Photo: Scott A. Schulkin
Lunch was followed by a beautiful concert featuring the versatile and virtuosic local Scandinavian group, Nykken— Barbary Grant and Verlene Schermer. The group is remarkable not merely for the beauty of their singing and the choice of their songs, but also for the variety of traditional Scandinavian instruments they play. Also remarkable for such a tightly harmonic trio of voices was their adaption as a duo because Kris Yenney had a previous engagement. With us were Barbary Grant and Verlene Schermer. Usually among Scandinavian folk instrument ensembles one can expect the nykelharpe, which was excellently played this day by Verlene, but also played were a cello, an intricately inlaid Norwegian
Continued from page 1
at Stockholm’s Grand Hotel and later of the renowned Three Crowns Restaurant in Grand Rapids, MI) needed emergency quadruple bypass heart surgery. So his place was taken by his Michigan companion, the Rev. Ben Hutchinson. This lent a special blessing to all the skåls and added a special meaning to this “water of life.” Another blessing was that since all the rental cabins and many of the leased cabins were filled with Vasa visitors, no one had to drive home that night. Actually the celebration began the night before when more than 50 people gathered at the clubhouse for a potluck dinner. Rather like the loaves and fishes, this potluck miraculously fed everyone, with plenty to spare. The talk continued into the night, interrupted only as ev-
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Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
150 diners feasted, sang and toasted the winners at Sveadal. Photo: Scott A. Schulkin
eryone remembered that they had to be back the next morning for the official celebration. On Saturday, Junior Past Master of the district, Paul Jevert, led those who made it to the opening ceremony in a history of the
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hardingfele, and Irish harp (similar to what Viking and later Scandinavians played), a cittra (zither) as well as hand drum and bells. The range and harmony of the women was striking but also quite moving when Barbary sang a simple lullaby into the sound box of her harp so the strings vibrated sympathetically. It was apparent that so did the heartstrings of many in the audience. After this beautiful concert, everyone pitched in to transform the main dining hall, setting up 19 round dining tables of eight, for 150 people were dining (and sampling) that night.
Aquavit competition
Roxanne Schulkin, who ably and confidently took over for her ill husband, Scott, was the master of the Aquavit Competition, ably assisted by son, Scott A., and a huge team of
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volunteers. Each of the almost 50 bottles were catalogued into their appropriate category: 1) Best Traditional (dill and/or caraway); 2) Best Tasting; and 3) Best Presentation. The judges were introduced: The Reverend Hutchinson is senior pastor of Cassopolis United Methodist Church in Michigan; Roberth Sundell is the owner/master chef of the famous Pläj Scandinavian Restaurant and Bar in San Francisco; Alex Hult, Borlänge native and Swedish professional hockey player and now owner and master chef of Hult’s Restaurant in Los Gatos. Before their decisions were rendered, they were saluted with a four-fold “Hurrah.” Then, while the crowd was kept at bay — if not baying, at least thirsting for their chance at the table — the judges carefully and with much comparing of notes judiciously sampled each of the traditional infusions. (That’s when the betting began as to what each judge’s facial expressions and reactions might mean for his final decision.) Once the judges had finished the table of traditional aquavits, the crowd was let loose upon that table, with thimbles, shot glasses or even aquavit snifters. Some of the participants were making comments on each and judging their quaffs to the decimal place. Others were merely going through a first round to see which they liked enough for a second opinion. Yet others got through about the first dozen sips before they forgot the first ones and had to make many returns (this, and another process, may be termed “fluid recycling”). My method was to rely upon the opinion of others and sample those — plus those of my friends, which rounded out the rest of the entries. The tasting, sampling and judging continued for several hours during which there were served some delicious hors d’oeuvres. Jim Melin had spread out half a dozen blocks of Swedish cheeses — herrgårdsost/vadenost, prästost and västerbottensost — along with assorted herrings. Later a huge platter of gravad lax was added. And Astrid Olsson’s high country wild elk as thuringer sausage slices and paté with crackers were an instant sensation. The whole competition lingered leisurely and in high good humor among contestants and their devotees.
A rollicking good night
A delicious dinner was prepared by Chef David Jansson, former Past District Master. Either entrée would have been superb but to be served both pork loin and salmon filets, prepared to perfection with vegetables and a delicious salad was a real treat. The dessert was assorted wild berries buried beneath whipped cream. When he finally emerged from the kitchen to sit beside his wife to dine before serving dessert, David was greeted with a standing ovation. Throughout the dinner, Past District Master (and newest Sveadal cabin owner), Vicki Fedor-Thurman resumed her duties as MC. She thanked Sveadal, particularly Karen Parks and Ginny Nelson, for Sveadal’s continuing hospitality and then she thanked fellow Vasa members for their spirited support of this Sweden Day event, far greater than when it
The Pacific states. page 5
2015 Akvavit sippers: soothed in Sveadal with aquavit. Photo: Scott A. Schulkin
had been held farther north in California. On behalf of Sveadal, Karen Parks stood and thanked Vasa for growing this new tradition here at their home in Sveadal, since the six Vasa lodges on the east and west sides of the Bay are all members of the League (SAPL), which owns Sveadal. As he had in leading everyone in “Helan Går” during the competition, Jan Nordin continued during the dinner to lead a dozen snapsvisor. Soon the entire clubhouse resembled Valhalla on a good night. As poignant was Hans Nilson of Lindbergh Lodge, who serenaded the diners on his trumpet, with beautiful notes that calmed the cacophonous conversations. But everyone was waiting to see if the judges had agreed with his or her own opinion about the ranking of the various aquavits. Roxanne explained that there were two rounds of judging. In the first round, the official judges, with their educated palates, decided upon the winners in the three categories. Next the popular votes of everyone attending would be added to the opinion of the judges for a combined tally. The judges declared Bob Olson to be the winner of the Best Traditional aquavit. Then a three-way tie was announced for Best Tasting aquavit, with Greta Anderson, Dave Jansson and last year’s champion, Catherine Lipscomb, each declared winners. And Jim Melin was awarded the prize for Best Presentation. There was mighty applause as each name was announced. Who would the folks declare the best? With dramatic effect and to reassure herself of the winners, Roxanne checked her tallies before announcing the names. For each category a new round of applause erupted, but especially at the end sustained applause broke out when the people’s choice mirrored exactly that of the judges. This year, Gus Brolin, Sveadal’s master woodworker donated a statue, the Viking, hewn from local timber, as the perpetual trophy for all winners, to which will be affixed a brass plaque indicating the winners for successive years of this perpetual trophy to remain at Sveadal. Best of all, as all agreed, a new prize was announced for this year to be awarded annually, the Jim Melin Spirit Award, won of course this year by Jim, to honor the person
who best exemplifies and contributes to the success and perpetuation of this new tradition. I guess you could say that this year Jim set the standard for this Spirit of the Spirits award. After a rollicking good night, volunteerism again prevailed among those who remained and within an hour the clubhouse was returned to its former state; then all returned to their cabins for a good night’s rest.
How we make things happen
The success of this delightful weekend celebrating our Scandinavian traditions was the result of many, many hardworking volunteers. But chief among these must be remembered four people. The best thing I ever did for Vasa was to bring Scott and Roxanne Schulkin (and now both their sons) and make them my Vice Chair and Secretary. On turning the gavel over to Scott, I told him that I only regretted not having accomplished one thing: to focus on current Sweden by featuring the preparation and enjoyment of today’s Swedish cuisine and traditions as well as of preparing and sampling aquavit. Scott is the one who made that dream come alive, for me and for all of us in the district. For most of his years as our head, he has annually held a Fylgia aquavit preparation during one month in spring and followed that the next month with tasting everyone’s concoctions. As his fame grew and as District cultural leader, he brought this occasion to a larger audience. For several years the tradition has flourished in Sveadal, first with a dozen or so people, then increasing exponentially each year. (Imagine what next year’s attendance will be!) Also fully supporting him was his wife, Roxanne Schulkin; and this year she shined — as leader, as Master of the Competition and as its spokesperson. She determined the judging systems, categories and layout; she fixed the rules for judges, contestants, and tasters; she managed the timing so that everyone enjoyed their aquavit yet also their dinner. She tallied the votes and she announced the winners of this first, expanded Sveadal Akvavit Championship. A couple years ago Jim Melin joined us. To say that he’s ebullient and enthusiastic is simply lax. When he sets his mind to something,
Hans Nilson and his soothingly smooth trumpet. Photo: Scott A. Schulkin Right: Jim Melin with Gus Brolin’s perpetual Viking Akvavit Trophy.
his pursuit is envigorating for all around him. All he needed was permission to hold the event at Sveadal, and he was recruiting half of Sweden and all of Michigan. Not only was he an indomitable competitor but also he took charge by lining up judges, contestants, food and all other aspects of the weekend. When we first started Vasa’s Sweden Day celebration at Sveadal, Vicki Fedor-Thurman was District Master. She is patient, appreciative and energetic. Growing up in both Vasa and Sveadal, she wanted to bring both closer
together. She sponsored our early meetings in Sveadal and encouraged Scott and Jim in their joint ambition. So, this was a triumph for all four of these individuals. The rest of the district members, particularly those attending Sveadal’s akvavit competition, are most appreciative. We raise our skål to honor Scott, Roxanne, Jim and Vicki, and to appreciate all who joined us. Next year promises to be even better. Ted Olsson, San Francisco
tion for every tri right solu p! e h T 415.552.5300
June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
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Mellan dröm och verklighet Vi lever i en tillvaro dominerad av bilder. Varje dag sköljer oändligt många bilder över oss, men du och jag bär också på många bilder: Bilder av oss själva, bilder av våra barn, bilder av våra föräldrar, bilder av vår livskamrat, bilder av andra människor, bilder av USA och vårt hemland Sverige, bilder av andra kulturer, bilder av det goda, lyckade livet eller det goda äktenskapet. Bilder av en bra församling, kyrka. Och sist men inte minst: bilder av vem Gud är. Det är viktigt med dessa bilder som kan hjälpa oss att orientera oss i tillvaron. Utan bilder skulle vi lätt bli förvirrade och ha svårt med att sätta mål för våra liv. Men samtidigt är det knepigt med alla dessa bilder. Bilderna kan börja skilja oss från verkligheten, när vi önskade att de skulle hjälpa oss att orientera oss i den. Vad händer när kartan inte stämmer med terrängen, när drömmen inte stämmer med verkligheten? Bilder av mig själv Jag tror att en stor del av våra samlevnadskonflikter handlar om detta. Visst tyckte jag att jag hade en tydlig bild av min blivande fru när vi gifte oss för 36 år sedan, men egentligen visste jag väldigt lite om vem hon var. Och hur väl kände jag mig själv med alla mina pålagda självbilder vid samma tid? Bilder och förväntningar som hindrade mig att vara den jag egentligen är. För de flesta par kan äktenskapet beskrivas som en rätt lång resa från bild/dröm till verklighet. Många bilder har vi fått överge under vägen. Vi har fått lära oss - via den hårda vägen - att verkligheten är oändligt mycket rikare än bilderna. Bilder av Gud Som våra bilder av Gud. Det finns säkert lika många bilder av Gud som vi är människor. Vi kan bära på bilder av Gud som är en spegling av oss själva. Vi kan ha bilder som kan få oss att vända oss bort från Gud, för att livet inte tycks få plats. Kanske nyckeln finns hos Jesus Kristus?
Jesus – gudomlig och mänsklig Den kristna kyrkan påstår att Jesu Kristus är både sann Gud och sann människa. Vi har ofta svårt att hålla ihop dessa sidor, den ena på bekostnad av den andra. Ofta håller vi tillbaka den mänskliga sidan av Jesus. Risken är då att bara det andliga får plats i gudsbilden, inte det mänskliga. Om inte Jesus är fullt ut människa med allt det betyder av kropp, känslor, vilja och förnuft, då kan det inte vara lämpligt att vi som vill följa honom utvecklar dessa sidor. Att välja Jesus betyder då att välja bort det mänskliga. Till det mänskliga som inte får plats i denna gudsbild hamnar allt som sker
Staffan Eklund
utanför kyrkväggarna: arbete, pengar, politik, miljö, kulturliv, musik, idrott, omvärld mm. Vad händer om jag får lära mig i kyrkan att Gud inte är intresserad av allt det som upptar det mesta i min vardag? Hur intressant blir det att lära känna och umgås med en sådan Gud? Det blir som en förälder som är ointresserad av vad hennes barn gör, men blir stött om barnet inte vill följa med till kyrkan. Den stränga eller den snälla Guden När kyrkan inte längre återspeglar Kristus genom att ge Gud ett mänskligt ansikte, kommer också sekulariseringen som ett brev på posten – när vi delar upp det andliga och det världsliga. Det andra diket är att vi gör Gud för snäll. Idag är inte den stränge fadersguden så vanlig i våra kyrkor. En psykoterapeut skrev för 20 år sedan att vi i Sverige ersatt den stränge fadersguden med en ”överslätande mammagud”… och fortsätter: ”Gud älskar människan hur hon än är och ställer inga krav, en oförarglig figur egentligen som det är gott att fly till när tillvaron kärvar till sig, men som aldrig kallar människan till omvändelse och bättring”. Om den hotfulla bilden får oss att knyta näven och göra uppror, gör den tillmötesgående bilden att vi går därifrån med en axelryckning…whatever?
Vår utmaning Vi utmanas som kyrka och enskilda att hålla ihop det gudomliga och det mänskliga. Och när vi lever i medvetenhet om spänningen mellan bild/dröm och verklighet, då kan förhoppnings-vis klyftan minska dem emellan. I våra liv, i våra relationer med varandra och i relationen till Gud. Låt oss önska varandra lycka till i den utmaningen! Staffan Eklund Kyrkoherde
Svenska kyrkan i Los Angeles och San Francisco
Your newspaper. Your stories. Submit to editor@nordstjernan.com Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
Swedish Food Trend: Gunilla Blixt blixt@nordstjernan.com
Everywhere you go in Sweden, pulled pork is served in buns, wraps or burritos, in a variety of stews or with a salad, in restaurants and at dinner with friends. And it’s not only pork. You find pulled beef and pulled chicken as well; I have also seen pulled salmon! Warm smoked salmon can be hard to find in the U.S., but if you do, you will not need a recipe to prepare it at home. Just serve the shredded warm smoked salmon in a bun with pea sprouts and a Dijon dressing. Feeling lazy with a dinner party coming up? The slow cooked meat for pulled anything is easily prepared beforehand as are most of the side dishes and condiments. Below are recipes for pulled chicken, beef and pork the way I make them. Choose which one you want to serve in your own, homemade hamburger buns. Milk added to the dough make these buns nice and soft.
the yeast in a little of the water, then stir all the water and milk. Add 1 egg, salt and flour to a smooth dough. Let rise under a cloth about 1 hour. Roll the dough into two rolls and cut each into 6 pieces, forming 12 round buns. Place them on the baking tray and let rise another 1 hour under a cloth. Preheat oven to 475°F (250°C). Beat 1 egg
in a cup. Brush the buns with beaten egg. Bake in center of oven for 8-10 minutes or until buns are baked through and nicely browned. Allow to cool under a cloth. Tip: The breads dry quickly, so put extra buns in the freezer.
Pulled Chicken 4 servings
If you find warm smoked salmon, simply serve the shredded salmon in a bun with pea sprouts and a Dijon dressing. Delicious!
Homemade Buns yields 12
1/3 cup butter (75 g) 1/2 cup milk (1 1/4 dl) 1/2 cup water (1 1/4 dl) 2 teaspoons yeast (25 g) 1 + 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour (6 dl) + to baking
To serve pulled chicken, beef or pork (see recipes below) use bowls of lettuce or salad tomatoes grated cheese guacamole BBQ sauce Dress a baking tray with baking paper. Melt the butter and remove from the heat. Mix together butter and milk and bring the mixture to cool to 98°F (37°C). Crumble the yeast into a bowl. Dissolve
4 chicken legs salt and ground white pepper 4 teaspoons barbecue spice 2 yellow onions 2 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons hickory sauce with smoke flavor Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken with salt, pepper and grill seasoning, then bake in an oven-proof dish for about 15 minutes. Turn over and cook about as long on the other side. Let the chicken legs cool a little, pull apart with fork and transfer to a saucepan, saving the gravy from the oven dish. Pour gravy into a small bowl and set in the fridge. Peel and slice the onion. Sauté onion in butter in a frying pan. Add the chicken meat and pour on hickory sauce. Serve the meat in a split bread bun.
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Pulled Meat
Pulled or shredded meat has become very popular in Sweden. And the U.S. seems to be equally interested.
Pulled Pork 6 servings
2 1/2 pounds pork loin 2 tablespoons oil for frying 3/4 cup of coca cola (2 dl) Marinade: 10 cloves of garlic 2 limes, juice 2 oranges, juice 4 tablespoons fuego spice mix, see recipe below 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 bay leaf 1 star anise 1 small piece of chipotle (smoked chilli) 2 teaspoons ground coriander 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons dried, ground chilli Dice the meat and season it with salt and pepper. Fry it in butter and then place the meat in a casserole dish. Peel and slice the onion and sauté in the same pan. Add the onion. Cut the tomatoes into small pieces and add them to the pan. Pour in broth, wine and tomato puree. Add the bay leaves, star anise and chipotle. Add also the coriander, oregano, cumin and chili powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 hours or until the meat can be pulled apart with a fork. Strain then the excess liquid and pull apart the meat to a pulp. Serve the meat in a split bread bun.
Fuego spice mix: 3 tablespoons ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 tablespoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon salt Make the spice mix according to recipe. Cut the meat into cubes, 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches. Place in a mold with high edges. Peel and grate the garlic cloves finely. Squeeze out the juice from limes and oranges. Sprinkle garlic, spice mix and cumin over the meat. Pour in the lemon juice, orange juice and soy sauce and mix thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate in the refrigerator overnight. Lift the meat from the marinade and pour the marinade in a saucepan. Brown the meat in oil in batches and put into the pot. Pour in coca cola. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, cover and simmer for 2 hours. Remove the lid, pull apart with fork and stir the meat and marinade to a pulp. Serve the meat in a split bread bun.
The Fuego spice mix for pulled beef.
Pulled beef, as above, chicken, pork or warm smoked salmon are easy to prepare beforehand, easy to eat and fun to serve.
While I use a regular pot most American kitchens will have slow cooker for the dishes presented here. Left: Pull the tenderized meat apart to create the stringy, moist beef for the buns.
Pulled Beef 6 servings
2 pounds of brisket (1 kg) 1 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 1/2 tablespoons butter 2 onions 4 tomatoes 2 cups meat broth (5 dl) 3/4 cup red wine (2 dl)
LINGONBERRIES • Fresh Frozen • Dried • Preserves www.sturdiwheat.com June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
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Cruising the Baltic Each summer, the Baltic bustles with cruise ships of every description. It began over a thousand years ago with the Vikings, who plowed the waves of the Baltic in their longships. Then came the German merchants, setting up Hanseatic ports. But long gone are the sleek longships and bulky medieval Hansa boats. Now the Baltic accommodates a new breed of explorers: modern-day tourists who, in ever-increasing numbers, fill cruise ships of every description. From relative obscurity, the Baltic has emerged as one of the world’s leading cruise destinations — third in popularity after the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. In the last five years it has experienced an average annual growth of 15 percent, compared to 6 percent worldwide. With the opening of countries once part of the Soviet block, more and more destinations have been added to the agenda, including Riga in Latvia and Klaipeda in Lithuania. By a good margin, the busiest cruise port in the Baltic is Copenhagen. An average of 300 cruise ships — with the number of passengers in 2014 reaching 750,000 — are expected to dock in the Danish capital each year. Along with Stockholm, Copenhagen is what is known as a transportation hub or primary turnaround port, meaning this is where most cruises begin and end. As for other ports, Estonia’s Tallin ranks as one of the most popular destinations, closely followed by St. Petersburg, where many ships will stay the longest (one to three nights). In all, the Baltic cruise region now includes 10 countries and 25 destinations. Apart from over a dozen cruise lines — ranging from those highly focused on the travel experience, with informative lectures and many shore excursions, to the extremely deluxe that make your personal comfort their highest priority — the Baltic also offers a number of very high quality ferry lines, such as Silja, Tallink, Stena, and Eckerö Line. So what is it that makes this inland sea in the far north such a rage in the cruising community? Part of it may be that travelers get more experienced and sophisticated and look for new places to explore. Not just any place, but one steeped in culture and with great natural beauty, a place that’s peaceful, stable, safe and clean. And they found it.
Voyager vignettes
We were still unpacking when an immaculately attired man, like Jeeves, sort of shimmered into the cabin and introduced himself as Arnel, our butler for the duration of the cruise. Though quite familiar with cruise amenities, we were duly impressed. Not bad. This was obviously a very high-end ship. In addition to a walk-in closet and a private balcony, we now had our very own butler. The ship that had welcomed us in such a classy manner — we’d been upgraded — was the Regent Seven Seas Voyager. Ahead lay a
Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
weeklong cruise in the Baltic. Unlike some cruises, this one had no sea days. Every morning we’d go ashore, ready to explore an exciting city, rich in history. Our itinerary was pretty typical: From Stockholm we sailed to Tallin, Estonia, then to Saint Petersburg for a threeday stay. Subsequently there would be stops in Helsinki and Visby, Gotland, before Copenhagen, our last port of call. From late May through August, when the Baltic region is most attractive with long hours of daylight and magic white nights, over a dozen cruise liners navigate these waters, shuttling between its various ports. Stretching from the British Isles through Scandinavia, and all the way to Russia, the region is also referred to as Northern European or Scandinavian. Other destinations, such as Turku, Rostock, Riga and Warnemünde are also common. The Seven Seas Voyager proved quite delightful, if somewhat fattening. With plenty of good food — much of it Scandinavian — and free wine, one tends to overdo it a bit. Once I hesitated in my choice between Dover sole and filet mignon, and, as a result, was given both. The spaciousness of the ship was particularly appealing. Though fully booked, the Voyager never felt crowded, and, throughout the trip, only at the Captain’s party was there any serious waiting in line. The Captain, incidentally, was Norwegian, which didn’t come as a great surprise. No cruise ship, it seems, is complete without a Norwegian captain. Though most of the passengers were Americans, we ended up socializing with a couple of Australians and Philip and Jackie from the UK. Then there was Ron, an Irish architect with a predilection for spouting Yeats. At the end of the voyage the crew put on a show, based on Broadway hits. It was very entertaining. The enthusiasm, combined with not a little talent, was irrepressible, producing lengthy applause from a full house. We wanted more … to return to this floating hotel
On its way into Stockholm’s ‘Stadsgården’ a cruise ship passes Waldemars Udde Museum and Djurgården island on the right, Hammarby on the left in a section of the waterways named Saltsjön. Photo: Per-Erik Adamsson - Stockholms Hamnar Left: The true archipelago beginsbut a few minutes away from the city of Stockholm.
which offers its guests great entertainment, accommodations and that enchanting light only a Nordic summer can provide. Text & Photography (where not specifically noted): Bo Zaunders
Essentials
Some cruise lines, such as Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, Seabourn, Cunard and Silversea, are particularly deluxe — or posh, to use Continues on next page
A cruise trip is vacation on a floating hotel—jogging path on the Voyager.
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local events. page 9 VOLVO CARS ON YOUTUBE
DESIGNED IN SWEDEN World Heritage town Visby on the island Gotland is a must for all Baltic cruises. The narrow alleys, the ring wall and the old cathedral ruins bear witness to a historic time.
Evening at the Nyhavn restaurant quay in Copenhagen— popular watering hole for locals and tourists alike.
Sweden and Scandinavia is not just any place, but one steeped in culture and with great natural beauty, a place that’s peaceful, stable, safe and clean...
a seafaring term. Like floating luxury hotels, they make your personal comfort their highest priority. Others are more focused on the travel experience as such, with informative lectures on the various destinations and many shore excursions. Cruise lines exploring the Baltic include Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Coastal Voyages, Princess, Holland America, Costa Atlantica and Oceana — all of which will indulge you with swimming pools, spas, gyms, and, to make sure you don’t lose any weight, 24/7 food and drink service.
http://www.hurtigruten.us http://www.rssc.com http://www.crystalcruises.com http://www.seabourn.com http://www.cunard.com http://www.silversea.com http://www.celebritycruises.com http://www.royalcaribbean.com http://www.coastalvoyage.com http://www.princess.com http://www.hollandamerica.com http://www.pocruises.com
Built in the USA. Volvo Cars begins construction of first U.S. plant in Berkely County, South Carolina. The first shipment of five Volvo PV444s arrived in Fort Worth, Texas in 1955. The first true dealer was an expat Swede, Nils Olof Sefeldt, whose only colleague those first few years was American businessman Leo Hirsch, who began selling Volvos on mail order. It must have been a tough sell but the brand started winning ground early on. The one millionth Volvo sold in North America shipped in the early 1990s but plans for a stateside Volvo assembly plant had been discussed already in the mid 1970s — which would have made Volvo the first among European brands to set up a local factory. It didn’t happen at the time, but 60 years after the first Volvos arrived to the first U.S. dealer, Volvo announced the location of its first U.S. factory. Volvo Cars chose South Carolina as the location for its first American plant, investing up to $500 million in a facility that will initially produce as many as 100,000 cars a year. The Berkeley County factory, located outside Charleston, will make latest generation Volvo models for sale in the United States and for export. Construction will begin in autumn 2015, with the first vehicles expected to roll off the assembly line in 2018. Part of an ambitious expansion plan to double global sales, boost market share and lift profitability, the U.S. plant will make it possible to manufacture vehicles on three continents, underscoring Volvo Cars’ position as a global carmaker. It already operates two plants in Europe and two in China. “This new global industrial footprint and a complete product renewal forms a foundation for our growth and profitability targets,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Car Corporation. With the development of an American factory, the company crosses an important threshold from an automotive importer to a domestic manufacturer. “We’re excited to build our first American factory in South Carolina and we look forward to helping grow the local community and economy,” said Lex Kerssemakers, president and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. “We were impressed with the friendliness, work ethic and passion of the people in the Charleston area.” The decision to choose Berkeley County was made as a result of its easy access to international ports and infrastructure, a well-trained labor force, attractive investment environment and experience in the high tech manufacturing sector. Volvo Cars estimates the factory will employ up to 2,000 people over the next decade and up to 4,000 people in the longer term. An economic impact analysis compiled by Dr. Frank Hefner at the College of Charleston estimates that, for an initial 2,000 direct jobs, more than 8,000 total jobs would be created. The plant would contribute approximately $4.8 billion in total economic output on an annual basis. “This is a landmark moment and truly a great day in South Carolina as we welcome Volvo Cars’ first American manufacturing plant to our state,” said Nikki Haley, governor of South Carolina. “Volvo’s presence and commitment to the community will be felt for decades to come. We are proud to have this global leader in car manufacturing join and strengthen South Carolina’s automotive industry.” www.Volvocarsfactory.com
June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
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Decorah, IA and Norway
Vesterheim’s executive director Steve Johnson (left) and board member Lindsay Erdman (right) pass the title for King Olav’s 1951 Cadillac limousine to AMCAR restoration president Harry Kjensli.
Trivia
Concord, CA
Swedish pancake chef Larry Ard. Swedish pancakes never disappoint—The famous thin pancakes, just like they are made in the “Old World,” didn’t disappoint another year of hungry attendees at Sveaborg Lodge #449’s annual Swedish Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, June 6. Many lodge members helped prepare the food, served at at the Odd Fellows Hall in Concord, California. They provided Swedish pancakes, lingon preserves, ham, fresh fruit, orange juice and coffee. Head chef Larry Ard served the ham. Larry, a Martinez resident, is well known in Contra Costa from when he was Chief Deputy of the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department. Photo: David Melo
No wedding details are too small As the countdown to their wedding brings their big day closer, Prince Carl Philip, 36, and Sofia Hellqvist, 30, are planning the wedding of their dreams. They do have a wedding coordinator, but they are both very involved in the planning. In fact, they don’t want to leave anything to chance. According to Major General Håkan Pettersson, the court wedding coordinator, the royal couple is very involved in every decision, right
down to the color and feel of linens. The Prince personally chose the chefs for their dinner, and the couple is currently “sweating” over the dinner guest seating for the reception at the Royal Palace in Stockholm. Even the entertainment was chosen by them — and it’s been announced that Swedish superstar DJ Tim “Avicii” Bergling will make an appearance sometime during the royal wedding on June 13.
King’s Cadillac Returns to Norway King Olav V of Norway bought a 1951 Cadillac limousine after World War II to symbolize Norway’s road to recovery; it became the Norwegian king’s favorite car. His son, King Harald V, eventually donated the Cadillac to the International Disabilities Foundation (IDF) to be used for fundraising for the IDF in conjunction with the Sons of Norway in the U.S. The limousine appeared at various Scandinavian-American events
throughout the United States before it was given to Vesterheim, The National NorwegianAmerican Museum and Heritage Center, in Decorah, Iowa in 1994. Now Vesterheim is returning King Olav’s limo to the people of Norway. The classic one-of-a-kind vehicle has been restored and is on its way to a dedication ceremony on June 6 at Akershus Fortress in Oslo, Norway, with its permanent home waiting — along with King Olav’s other limousines — at the new National Motor Museum near Lillehammer.
Herr & Fru | Mr. & Mrs.
Three tips on how to lose weight.
Guide: How to increase your salary.
Be happy the way your are.
‘Name’s days’ of the Swedish Calendar: /Kommande två veckors namnsdagar
Dream wedding broadcast live on SVT
The soon-to-be wed Prince couple has invited all of Sweden and the world to the Castle Church on Saturday, June 13. The wedding ceremony in the Royal Chapel will take place at 4.30 p.m. local time (10.30 a.m. EST). SVT will start broadcasting at 3 p.m. (9 p.m. EST), when the hosts have invited a number of guests to follow the royal wedding together with viewers: the wedding itself, cortege, dinner with speeches and wedding cake. Mark Levengood, Pernilla Månsson Colt and Ebba von Sydow Kleberg will be hosting the broadcast. Chaplain to the royal court Lars-Göran Lönnermark and the royal court pastor Michael Bjerkhagen will be wedding officiants with, well, the world as witness. Watch the wedding at www.svtplay.se
Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
In New York In Stockholm In Kiruna Lund In Los Angeles
June 15: Sunrise Sunset 5.24 a.m. 8.29 p.m. 3.32 a.m. 10.04 p.m. over the horizon 4.23 a.m. 9.52 p.m. 5.42 a.m. 8.06 p.m.
The wild party life of the Princess. “Finally something worth reading!”
June 15 Margit/Margot June 16 Axel/Axelina June 17 Torborg/Torvald June 18 Björn/Bjarne June 19 Germund/Görel June 20 Linda June 21 Alf/Alvar June 22 Paulina/Paula June 23 Adolf/Alice June 24 Johannes Döparens dag June 25 David/Salomon June 26 Rakel/Lea June 27 Selma/Fingal June 28 Leo June 29 Peter/Petra June 30 Elof/Leif
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Arlanda, Sweden
Sweden is one of nine countries where the United States has recently decided to set up so-called “fast lanes” where, under a preclearance system, travelers will undergo customs procedures at Stockholm Arlanda Airport and not upon landing in the U.S. The U.S. passport control and customs service will set up procedures and facilities in Arlanda in the next 18 to 24 months, making it much easier to travel between Sweden and the U.S. The U.S. preclearance system is currently in place in only two airports in the EU, both in Ireland.
Travel
After a warmer than average start to spring all over the country, Sweden hasn’t had such a cold May in 10 years. It’s been five to eight degrees cooler than normal throughout most of the country, with snow falling in the north. Although some areas might experience a slight warmup before May is over, they weather systems are very unstable right now. If this continues through the end of the month, it will go down as Sweden’s coldest May on record.
Swedish Architect in America
Stockholm safest city in Europe
The Economist Intelligence Unit has released The Safe City Index 2015, a report based on an index composed of more than 40 quantitative and qualitative indicators that are split across four thematic categories: digital security; health security; infrastructure safety; and personal safety. It focuses on 50 cities on five continents, identifying Stockholm as the safest in Europe and fourth safest in the world, behind Tokyo, Singapore and Osaka. Stockholm gets its top position because of low crime, high digital security and good health.
Most parts of Sweden
August NORDIN (December 5, 1869 - January 8, 1936)
Nordin was born in Stockholm, Sweden and came to the United States in 1891 after having received a thorough training in architecture in Sweden. He started working in his father’s office in 1916 and opened his first office in San Francisco already in 1899, on Market Street. He was married twice and had three children in California — sons Leonard and Robert, and a daughter, Alice. August Nordin made a name for himself as a master architect in San Francisco because of his great taste and wit. He designed more than 300 structures in California, one of which is the Swedish American Hall, built in 1907, which has been - and still is - used as a meeting place for many generations of Swedish Americans. He was a member of the Swedish Club, the SwedishAmerica Society and was a Freemason. Nordin designed various commercial and industrial buildings, hotels and churches, as well as many single-family residences and apartment houses. For the Panama-Pacific Exposition in
Stockholm, Stockholm, stad i världen! According to The Atlantic, the beautiful Swedish capital is the 25th most economically powerful city in the world, and The Economist claims it’s 2015’s safest city in Europe.
San Francisco in 1915, he was appointed supervisor and assistant Nordin’s work in Cal. includes to the famous Swedish American Hall, 1907. Swedish architect Ferdinand Boberg who was the designer of the Swedish Pavilion. The Exposition opened on February 20, 1915 and the Swedish Pavilion was dedicated the same day. For his work, Nordin was honored with the Knight of the Order of Vasa. Exerpt from the book Swedish Architects in the USA, 1846-1930, due out later this year, offers a sneak peak into the fascinating stories and lives of some of the 150 Swedish architects who immigrated to and worked in America during the Great Swedish Migration. While a lot is known about professionals in education, religion, journalism and farming, very little has been written about Swedish architects in America - until now. After years of research, Göran Rygert compiled this comprehensive collection of architectural histories.
ABBA
Tribute Band Fri & Sat
July 17-19, 2015 Gerry Rodeo Grounds, Gerry, NY
www.scandinavianjamestown.org FOOD
LECTURES
MUSIC
716.665.0883 CULTURE June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
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Tuesday Club’s 25th Anniversary On May 19, friends and members of the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce in New York gathered at Restaurant Aquavit for a special 25th anniversary celebration of the Tuesday Club. The evening featured a presentation by Deborah Norville, an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist and longtime host of Inside Edition. The engaging Ms. Norville, who was born and raised in Georgia, talked about her Swedish heritage and how her grandparents emigrated to the U.S. more than 100 years ago. As a teenager, she discovered her passion for television when she competed in the 1976 Georgia Junior Miss Pageant, a contest she won with the help of an unlikely talent — sewing. That led to journalism school where she had an opportunity to interview President Jimmy Carter. It was a life-changing moment. “I suddenly realized, ‘I just did an interview with the president of the United States. I am going to get a job!’” Norville joined Inside Edition 20 years ago, after stints on NBC’s Today and NBC’s News at Sunrise. Although she is a firm be-
liever in broadcast journalism, she acknowledged some stories are more important than others. “There has to be something better to talk about than Lindsay Lohan and Britney Spears,” she said. Her talk then turned to the power of positive gratitude, the subject of her 2007 bestselling book, “Thank You Power: Making the Science of Gratitude Work for You.” She described a research study in which three groups were asked to think about good stuff, negative stuff and neutral stuff. Those who focused on gratitude were more optimistic and creative. She also mentioned proven stress relievers such as looking at pictures of puppies and penguins. “When you are focused on things that make you grateful, you succeed,” she said. “Embrace your power of gratitude.” Alexandra Ivancevic
Siggi Hilmarsson, Håkan Swahn, Lars Nordensten and Deborah Norville.
Mona Svensson, Lars-Arne Lundholm and Lars Nordensten. Right: Deborah Norville, who is of Swedish descent, was the featured speaker at SACCNY’s Tuesday Club anniversary celebration.
Guests attending SACC-NY’s Tuesday Club anniversary celebration. (Page One image: Deborah Norville and SACC-NY president Renee Lundholm.)
Any time. Any place. Now closer than ever. generalsnus.com/find
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WARNING: This product can cause mouth cancer.
local events. page 13
Everyone is Swedish at Don’t let anyone tell you Swedish Days Festival Swedes can’t sing. Geneva’s 2015 Swedish Days announces parade marshal … and the lutefisk is back. The Viking Service Organization and Geneva Chamber of Commerce have announced that longtime area resident, Joe Greenberg, has been named 2015 Swedish Days Parade Marshal. Greenberg served in World War II, then obtained a diploma in Fine Arts at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he met his wife Karin and started a family. As a “Jack of all trades,” Joe’s been employed in many ways throughout the area, and at age 90, he still holds two jobs. Working in Geneva has given him the opportunity to meet extraordinary people who donate their time, talents and energy to make Geneva a wonderful place to live, work and play. “These people do not expect or receive special recognition for their actions but do their daily best. As Parade Marshal, I will be representing the everyday, hardworking people who contribute to making Geneva a great town!” When the letter arrived announcing Greenberg as the Parade Marshal for the 2015 Swedish Day Parade, he was humbled to be singled out and honored for doing the things he already enjoys doing. “I know that around town I am known as the crazy guy who dresses up in costumes and roams the streets passing out gold coins, Hershey kisses, Easter eggs and hugs. By honoring me you say it is OK to be me, just the crazy way I am,” says a smiling Greenberg. Greenberg might not be Swedish, but during Swedish Days, everyone claims a little “Swedish.” Last year, Geneva welcomed 200,000 visitors to a smorgasbord of events and activities during the week-long festival. And this year, the lutefisk taste-testing is back. Yes, at Sweden Väst, a festival within the festival, this
very special taste of Sweden will be featured. Believe it or not, it was so well liked last year that they are featuring it again this year. Someone should make sure Joe Greenberg gives it a taste, too. For more on the Dala horse carving, Swedish gifts and food, meatball tossing, Kubb, Swedish music, dancing ‘round the Maypole, lutefisk tasting and everything else during the festival from June 23-28, visit http://www. genevachamber.com/swedish_days.php. The Grand Parade begins at 1 p.m. on June 28.
It’s true: The Svenska Kulturförbundet i Cleveland has celebrated Sköna Maj (beautiful May) since it was first organized, I am told, some time prior to the great Irish potato famine — whenever that was. As the name implies, the evening was to be one of welcoming springtime, despite the fact that doing so is somewhat putting the proverbial Dalahäst before the cart; however, in proper juxtaposition following the bonfires of Walpurgis Night, King Carl XVI Gustaf’s birthday and the expectation of graduation, if not simply ending a semester’s labors in the halls of academia, this is the night to eat, drink and by all means, sing spring songs. Many years ago at such a gathering, one of the Swedes wanted to leave, excusing himself with, “I don’t sing.” Nonsense! And after a round of OP Anderson, you couldn’t keep him quiet. And off key to boot! Opening with Du Gamla Du Fria and Ja Vi Elsker (the Norwegian equivalent), the business portion of the meeting was rapidly dispensed with. Our hostess and pianist pro-tem, Aina Lustig, together with our president, Ingemar Svala, set the program from our songbook which was compiled by several members many years ago. Opening with Vintern Rasat Ut and followed by 11 others including Student Visan, Varvindar Friska, Glad Såsom Fågeln, Sköna Maj and Flickan i Havana, and without a Björling in the group, don’t let anyone tell you Swedes can’t sing. As a final effort, America The Beautiful was sung, after which it was certainly time to fall back, re-group and wet our whistles ... so to speak. Our host then provided snacks and hot, strong black coffee by which the social hour began and ended. In short, a splendid time was had by all, even the hosts. Arthur Lustig
The famous late Swedish singer Jussi Björling wasn’t there, but the singing was great nonetheless. Photos by Ingemar Svala Bringing luck to all in Geneva is just a regular day for Joe Greenberg.
Scandinavian Summer Fest Join the first annual Scandinavian Summer Fest. Norway Day and Svenskarnas Dag have a long tradition — over 80 years — of holding separate events, but this year on Sunday, 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, Swedes and the Scandinavian community. The day begins with an 11 a.m. Nor-
wegian/Swedish worship service led by Pastor Kristin Sundt from Mindekirken (the Norwegian Memorial Church), and Pastor Antonio Spargo will preach. Then there will be Barnetog (Children’s parade), dancing around the Midsommarstång (Midsummer pole) led by Elise Peters and the ASI Spelmanslag, and the afternoon program culminates with the crowning of Miss Svenskarnas Dag 2015. In addition,
delightful and authentic Scandinavian foods, vendors, demonstrators, exhibitors and handicrafts make for a family-friendly event with activities and fun for all ages! Entertainment includes Norwegian and Swedish performing groups, Leroy Larson and the Minnesota Scandinavian Ensemble,
ASI and St.Paul Swedish Male Choruses, Norwegian Glee Club, Daughters of Norway Chorus, Svenskarnas Dag Girls Choir, Vasa Jr. Folk Dancers, Twin Cities Swedish Folk Dancers and the Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers. Free Admission. Minnehaha Park, 4801 South Minnehaha Park Dr., Minneapolis, MN 55417 Contact Earl (612) 861-4793, Ted (612) 825-8808 or Dan (612) 724-6236.
June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
local events. page 14
Midsummer events 2015 More events and list your own, at www.nordstjernan.com-EVENTS
l California
Gilmore Adobe, LA 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 310832-6800
Palos Verdes Peninsula, LA 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
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 Chicago 13 Jun 2015 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM Come celebrate Midsommar with the The Swedish American Museum. Traditional Swedish music and dancing around the Maypole! Info www. swedishamericanmuseum.org or info@samac. org 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, email: SwedishDay@gmail.com or call 847-845-2640
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
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
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
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/events/ midsommar-2/ or sweachicagoprogram@gmail. com
Vasa Park Agoura 28 Jun 2015 8:30 AM –6:00 PM The Swedish American Central Association Annual 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
Rockford 20 Jun 2015 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Swedish Historical Society hosts Midsommar Festival at the Erlander Museum. Maypole, Folk Dancers and entertainment, Swedish food & market, kid’s activities. More info www.swedishhistorical. org or 815-963-5559 or email: lristin@comcast.net
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 call 303-449-9596
l Connecticut
Fairfield 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
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
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 or jsmadsen@mchsi.com 319-351-2595
Vasa Park, Meriden 28 Jun 2015 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM Traditional Swedish Midsommarfest. Maypole, music, dance, entertainment and food. More info: alogonoski@aol.com or 203-238-7829
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 Washington D.C
l Kansas
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
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
Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
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
bration 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 Massachussetts
l Nebraska
Newton 20 Jun 2015 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM Midsummer Picnic hosted by Scandinavian Cultural Center & SACC-NE. Maypole, dancing, activities for children and Picnic. For more info http:// scandicenter.org/event/midsummer-picnic-2/ or email: cmealey@slcenter.org or 617-795-1914
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 www.sahswm.org or info@ 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 call 248-478-2563.
l Minnesota
Bemidji 21 Jun 2015 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM Bemidji A.S.I. Affilate 40th anniversary and celebration of Midsommar Fest! Decorating the Majstang. Music, dancing and lunch. More info: Call 218-785-2368 or Email: luckyswede2368@gmail. com 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 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 email: nisswastamman@gmail.com or Call 218-764-2994 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 Vining 20 Jun 2015 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM Leif Erikson, Sons of Norways Midsommar Cele-
Oakland 19 Jun 2015 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM 20 Jun 2015 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM 21 Jun 2015 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Swedish Heritage Center's bi-annual Swedish Heritage festival. Maypole, Swedish food, craft fair, Lego Dala Horse Competition etc. For more info www.facebook.com/pages/Swedish-HeritageCenter-Oakland-Nebraska/316494311871854 or Email: tada@huntel.net or Call 402-685-5101 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
l New York
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 see www. vasanewyork.com or call 718-415-0602
l North Dakota
Buckstop Junction, Bismarck 23 Jun 2015 6:30 PM Three Crowns Swedish-American 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. For more info www.scandiclub. com, email: ScandiClubInfo@gmail.com
l Oregon
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.
local events. page 15
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
l Vermont
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 802-824-6673 or Carl-Eric Westberg 802824-6578.
l Wisconsin
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. 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 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.vasaparkresort.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, or call 425-954-5262
Nestled in the heart of the Swedish Village of Kingsburg...
Svensk Butik Swedish
Gifts
1465 Draper Street Kingsburg, California 93631 (559) 897-5119
CONNECTICUT VASA DAY MIDSUMMER CELEBRATION Sunday, June 28, 2015
95
th
The park Opens at 11 a.m.; Parade, flag raising, raising of the Maypole and dancing - Noon. Booths & Children’s Activities - 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. Parking in the park. Entrance $2 per person, children under 12 free. Dinner w dessert and beverage - $13 ... Hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream. Connecticut Vasa Park 358 Main Street, South Meriden, CT More info, call 203--281-1261 or e-mail jpmfol@sbcglobal.net
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
www.vasapark.org June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
Viewpoints. page 16
Ulf Nilson Sweden, June 2015 ulf.nilson@nordstjernan.com
Who is the best U.S. president of all time? The question is asked at regular intervals, particularly toward the end of a presidential term as now with Barack Obama. An obvious choice for first place is Franklin D. Roosevelt. He had such a grip over the electorate that they changed the law after his death — so that no president could be elected more than twice. Comparing presidents is a kind of a national sport in the United States. There are perhaps not quite as many opinions as there are Americans, but many there are, and the topic is always on everyone’s mind and kept up to date. My personal favorites are two very different men: John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan. Different in every way, yet (I think) “typical Americans.” Many may protest when I put Kennedy and Reagan equally high. But most important for both was to govern the country well and both were successful, in my opinion. Nixon also, at least partially succeeded, but something inside him did not fit properly and so things went the way they did. I admired Ronald Reagan for his policies that won the Cold War and led to the dissolu-
Best U.S. President ever? tion of the USSR. But even more because he was elected president when he was 69 years old. Far into the retirement age, he sought the hardest job there is. Kennedy never had time to do all the things he could have done, and grew into a great symbol of light and hope after his murder. Reagan and Kennedy both end up pretty high, in 11th and 14th place on the ranking recently presented by the Brookings think tank. Brookings asked 100 American political scientists to rank the country’s 43 presidents. The winner was unsurprisingly Abraham Lincoln, followed by George Washington and Franklin D. Roosevelt in third. Americans in general likely rank Washington, Lincoln and possibly Eisenhower as the foremost as well. The choice of Washington is obvious, as is Lincoln as a figure of light and Eisenhower because he led the country to victory in World War II. Personally — I must admit — I liked Nixon rather well, but here I know I’m not getting backed up in my views. Nixon flew to Beijing, met with Mao and helped China out of isolation and alienation. It was his greatest achievement, no doubt the work of a great statesman. At the same time, he sought dé-
tente with the Soviet Union and brought the Vietnam War to an end (which undoubtedly could have gone faster). My final review is that Nixon led the super-power with skill and balance. His own demons led him to become entangled in the Watergate scandal and led to his downfall. Nixon ends up far down the Brookings list, in 35th place just before George W. Bush. Few politicians in the world — if any — are the subject of such tenacious, thorough and tireless scrutiny as U.S. presidents. Although media might sometimes take it easy with favorites like Kennedy, Nixon, who was unpopular, was regularly hit with negative reviews, whether deserved or not. The question of who is the best president is obviously impossible to answer. The circumstances vary, the world is changing and the country too. Perhaps the United States — to its glory — is the country that is changing most rapidly of all. It is a young country, full of people from different parts of the world: the unhappy, the ambitious, the most enterprising and the most hopeful. Obama then? It’s too early to determine his place in history. But on the Brookings list he is currently ranked number 18 of the 43.
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När jag sitter på en bänk och solar mig vid Kornhamnstorg i Stockholm, vilket jag ofta gör, tittar jag stundom på Karl XlV Johan. Som ni alla vet var hans riktiga namn Jean Baptiste Bernadotte. Han kom till Sverige till Sverige som 47-åring för att tillträda jobbet som kung av Sverige och Norge. Hans son Oskar den förste lät uppföra en staty över sin far till häst. En vacker tanke i sig själv! Skaparen av statyn, Bengt Erik Fogelberg, som högg ut - eller i varje fall på något sätt tillverkade statyn, ville att skapelsen skulle ge en bild av hur det såg ut när den, vid detta tillfälle, förmodligen förväntansfulle Jean Baptiste red in i Stockholm 1810. För någon vecka sedan trodde jag mig från min bänk på Kornhamnstorg se tendenser till att någon myndighet var i färd med att putsa upp eller försköna såväl Karl XlV som hans häst. Hela statyn hade blivit överklädd med ett plastfodral. Senare har jag lärt mig att det inte är fråga om någon försköning. Jean Baptiste och hans häst skall helt enkelt förvisas från sin plats vid Slussen. Dit han en gång red in. Vart den gamle kungen skall ta vägen vet jag ännu ej. Jag kan bara konstatera att jag i fortsättningen får titta på andra saker från min bänk vid Kornhamnstorg. Ingenting blir någonsin som förut. Inte minst i Stockholm gäller det att hänga med i vad som pågår. Förändringar är dagens melodi. Hur Slussen skall
Nordstjernan, June 15, 2015
Ingenting blir nånsin som förut förändras har det bråkats livligt om i åratal. Ytterst få orkar hålla reda på alla diskuterade alternativ. Förmodligen kommer alla gamla snurrande och roliga vägar som Slussen nu består av att ersättas av raka spår. Men därom blir det förmodligen också strid. Många ärenden som har med stadsplanering att göra slutar nämligen med strid och osämja. Och blir alltid dyrare än någon från början tänkt sig. Politiska och praktiska möjligheter skiftar ständigt. Det, som var naturligt förr, framstår som omöjligt i dag. I gången tid var det naturligt att tillverka statyer. Bara i Stockholm finns det dussintals statyer. Gustav lll utanför slottet, Karl Xll i Kungsträdsträdgården etc. etc. Jag har svårt att föreställa mig att det blir så många fler statyer med kungar till häst i vårt moderna Sverige. Tror någon till exempel att kronprinsessan Viktoria, när hon så småningom blir drottning, kommer att följa sin anfader Oskar l i spåren och anlita en konstnärligt begåvad stenhuggare att framställa en staty av sin far till häst. Jag har svårt att tänka mig att vi får se vår nuvarande kung, Karl XVl Gustav, på häst placerad på Sergels torg. Men man skall aldrig säga aldrig. Till min glädje finns det så många andra intressanta saker att titta på från min bänk på Kornhamnstorg. Flera vackra kyrktorn, några med gammal fin kunglig historia, kan jag glädja mig åt att betrakta—Katarina, Sofia och Mariakyrkorna. Vrider jag mig
bara aningen åt höger får jag Stadshuset med sina tre kronor på toppen och Riddarholmskyrkan, där de flesta av våra kungar vilar, i blickfånget. Så mig rör det inte så mycket att Jean Baptiste rider iväg till en ny plats. Som vi alla vet är det inte bara sådana konkreta ting som ryttarstatyer som försvinner. Realskolor till exempel. Även om jag nu talar utan att ha läst på tror jag att realskolor inte längre finns. Jag har fått intrycket av att grundskolor smidigt går upp i gymnasier. Själv grundlade jag min djupa bildning på realskolan i Askersund. Jag minns att alla elever skulle infinna sig i skolans aula klockan 8:00 varje morgon för att delta i den röda bussen från Röfors. Den bussen kom till stan först klockan 8:20. På grund av kommunikationsproblem blev Sonja och Bengt befriade från andlig början på skoldagen. Vi som var med i aulan redan från början avundades våra två befriade kamrater från Röfors. Några morgonböner förmodar jag inte heller förekommer i skolorna numera. Det är inte längre bara snälla kristna barn som finns i våra omgivningar. Därför skulle det bli krångligt om man i jämlikhetens namn också skulle hinna med att ge några doser av religion också till muslimer, hinduer och andra snälla barn. Adjunkt Gyllenswärd som höll morgonbönerna skulle nog ej heller lyckas framföra de skiftande religiösa budskapen på ett tillfredsställande sätt. Jag vidhåller: Ingenting blir som förut.
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local events. page 17
Vasa Park’s Midsummer Festival Bellevue, WA: Vasa Park’s Midsummer Festival is a traditional Scandinavian family celebration of the start of summer only 1520 minutes from Seattle’s downtown. This year’s festival on Sunday, June 14, 2015, is a celebration of the 89th anniversary of this event at Vasa Park. Admissions to Vasa Park are FREE for Midsummer. The traditions at Vasa Park’s Midsummer Festival include a parade of costumed folk dancers and musicians, a folk dancing per-
Välkommen till
Lördag 20 Juni kl. 15.00
Midsommarfirande på Gilmore Adobe Dans runt midsommarstången, mat, dryck, sång & musik.
Till hösten bjuder vi in till konfirmation
för svensktalande ungdomar från 14 år och uppåt. Första träffen blir söndagen den 6 september. Se vår hemsida för anmälan och information.
formance around a flower covered maypole, and Scandinavian crafts and food. Lots of activities will be centered on children with free pony rides in the morning , face painting, free cotton candy and popcorn, Bouncy House and Dizzy’s Tumble Bus. Traditional children’s races and games start at 2. The playground, swimming beach and waterslides are open all day long for your enjoyment with lifeguards on duty Come early for a hearty Swedish pancake breakfast served at the outdoor kitchen, pancakes served from 9am until noon. During the afternoon, hot dogs, hamburgers, and salmon will be served. The Beer Garden will be open from noon until 6, with domestic and microbrew beer being served. The Pickled Herring Band will play from 3pm to 6pm in the beer garden. Admission to Vasa Park on Midsummer is FREE to the public. So plan to bring the whole family and enjoy all of the traditions, foods and fun at Vasa Park on June 14, 2015 Watch for additional events to be added to the Midsummer Festival. Check the Midsummer page at http://www.vasaparkresort. com and follow the plans on Facebook. Vasa Park is located on the west side of Lake Sammamish at 3560 W. Lk. Sammamish Parkway S.E. in Bellevue. For driving directions, go to http://www.vasaparkresort.com.
Under juli och augusti har vi begränsad verksamhet (se hemsida för detaljer). Välkommen till höstens första gudstjänst söndagen den 6 september.
Svenska kyrkan, 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”
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Öppettider 14 - 27 juni SÖNDAGAR
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be för något som är angeläget
5 East 48th Street, New York, NY 10017 Tel: +1 (212) 832-8443
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14 juni Högmässa 11.00 SOMMARSTÄNGT Caféet öppet 12-16 Ung Svensk i NYC 14-16 Mässa Gloria Dei 16.00
Caféet öppet 12-18 Öppet lekrum 10.30-12.00
Caféet öppet 12-18 Öppet lekrum 10.30-12.00
Caféet öppet 12-18
STÄNGT Caféet öppet 12-16 MIDSOMMARAFTON
21 juni 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
June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
local events. page 18
50 years of a Swedish Midsummer And with Midsommarfest 2015, a fundraiser project — a micro water tower kit — is available for purchase (a portion goes to the Water Tower Fund), assemble and decorate at home; then take a picture and tag it on social media as #AvilleWaterTower The Swedish American Museum will host Midsommarfest’s opening ceremony at 11:30 a.m. on June 13 on their Clark Street stage. Then, everyone can enjoy traWill Kaplan wears a Midsommar crown made at the Brunk Children’s Barbro Beck shows off the flower wreaths she made for the Midsommarstång ditional dancing and Museum of Immigration craft studio during the 2014 Midsommarfest. in 2014. This is something she has done for many years. singing around the maFor the past half-century, a traditional Midsommarfest was celebrated. and Scandinavian focus in the neighborhood jstång (maypole), food, A Midsommarfest has been held annually has historically been embraced by nearly all activities, ethnic music and performances on Swedish celebration of Midsommarfest has taken over Chicago’s Andersonville since that first inauguration. Each year, nearly of Andersonville’s residents, including those various stages. And yes, ABBA lovers can neighborhood. The tradition of a summer 50,000 people flock to the festival for three who are not of Scandinavian origin. enjoy their favorite Swedish band’s music street festival began in June 1965, after the days of music, dancing, kids’ entertainment, Case in point: Last year when the iconic — on both Friday and Saturday evenings, neighborhood had been officially named delicious food and activities from all the cul- water tower suffered irreversible ice dam- as ABBA Salute preforms on the Swedish “Andersonville” in a ceremony at which tures represented in the increasingly diverse age that demanded its removal from the Stage. Välkomna! Mayor Richard J. Daley donned a Swedish neighborhood. In fact, the decidedly Swedish roof of the Swedish American Museum, it Amanda Olson Robison blue and yellow apron for the occasion. was members of the community who asked Swedetown, Chicago’s northern Swedishfor its return. The blue and yellow beacon 50th Andersonville Midsommarfest immigrant neighborhood, was a prosperous had become a landmark in the tight-knit Friday, June 12, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday, area until the fire of 1871. After that, the neighborhood for nearly 90 years. And so a June 13, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday, June 14, Swedes moved north and rebuilt their homes campaign to bring it back (in some form) was 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and businesses. Eventually, Andersonville begun. To date, $100,000 has been raised. www.swedishamericanmuseum.org — perhaps named after the school it was founded in or for the Swedish farmer, John Anderson, who settled there around 1840 — was dedicated as a bustling Swedish immigrant neighborhood in the autumn of 1964. Less than a year later, the now historic first A nearly finished water tower made from a larger version of the micro kit that is being sold as a fundraiser for the Water Tower Fund. Decorate a tower however you like and tag it on social media! #AvilleWaterTower
Göran Rygert’s collection of Swedish traditional schnapps songs, in English and Swedish $8.95 + S&H.
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sports. page 19
Photo: Bildbyrån
Tough road at Women’s World Cup
Nordstjernan’s Chipp Reid feels the Swedish women’s national soccer team is up for a hard time at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Chipp Reid, Sports Editor chipp@nordstjernan.com
After a silver medal in 2003 and a bronze in 2011, the Swedish women’s national soccer team has its eyes on the gold at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, but the competition may be a lot less friendly than expected. Sweden is among a group with gold-medal contenders USA, African power Nigeria and Australia in what many are calling the “group of death” at Canada 2015. The blue and yellow breezed through the qualifiers, winning all 10 of its matches while conceding just one goal, but the 10-0 record belied several major faults on the team, the biggest of which was scoring. Sweden managed just 32 goals in its 10 matches and was the lowest scoring European group winner in the qualifiers. Head coach Pia Sundhage, who won Olympic gold and World Cup silver while coaching the United States, has made a series of changes, placing great emphasis on the central spine of the team with a more possession-based approach. “It has been a process of ups and downs,” the veteran coach admitted, “but the players have accepted the system and we’ll only keep improving from here.” The key to the tactical change, Sundhage said, has been “to get the most out of Caroline Seger,” the influential Paris Saint-Germain midfielder. The 33-year-old player is one of five left from the team that finished second in 2003, and while she has shined as a top female midfielder, she has yet to make the type of mark internationally many expected.
Seger is one of a number of experienced, though aging, veteran players Sundhage will look to for leadership and scoring in Canada. All-time leading Swedish scorer Lotta Schelin, who also plays club football in France, is playing in her third and likely last World Cup. Schelin, 31, has 80 career international goals in 150 matches and is the player the Swedes look to when they need a goal. Nila Fischer (31), Charlotte Rhodin (35) and Sara Thunebro (36) will anchor a defense that features Helvig Lindahl in goal. Both Rhodin and Thunebro picked up injuries going into the tournament and Sundhage will likely use Elin Rubensson and Lina Nilsson as replacements. Both are under 30. In the midfield, Seger will partner with 38-year-old Therese Sjogran. The FC Rosengard captain enjoyed a renaissance last year in the Damallsvenskan, but at 38 and with 210 internationals under her belt, there are real concerns as to just how much she will be able to contribute. Lisa Dahlkvist, 28, who has 96 caps, and a healthy Kosovare Asllani, who now plays with Seger at PSG, give the Swedes a pair of scoring options. Sweden’s biggest issue could be its depth. The team lacks a true goal-scorer who can enter a match as a substitute and turn a game around. Sweden’s bench also lacks experience, with 10 players on the roster who have played fewer than 25 matches. The intangible for Sweden is, of course, their coach. As a two-time Olympic gold-winner and former FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women’s Football, Sundhage is one of the most respected voices in the female game and is a
popular leader of a team she represented 146 times during her playing career. Sundhage has a proven ability at ringing every drop of talent out of her players, but she can also be somewhat obstinate in her play calling and formations.
Vying for the title
As for the rest of the field, Germany is the clear favorite to regain the title it last held in 2007. Japan scored a surprise win over the U.S. in 2011, but the Japanese, while still strong, are not likely to repeat as world champions. The United States, ranked second in the world, is another favorite. Sweden is currently ranked fifth in the world, behind Japan and France. The French, in fact, could be the surprise team of the tournament. Sweden’s group features an Australian side currently ranked 10th in the world. Australia has an average age of just 23 but has picked 13 members of the squad that reached the quarter-finals at Germany 2011, including Hyundai Young Player Award winner Caitlin Foord and veteran goalkeeper Melissa Hudson (nee Barbieri), not to mention Asian player of the year Katrina Gorry. Team USA, meanwhile, is a powerhouse of experience and talent — Christie Rampone, 40, for example, sets out on her fifth World Cup and is the sole survivor from her team’s triumph in 1999. It is Abby Wambach, though, who holds her nation’s record for individual World Cup games, having rattled in 13 goals in her 18 matches — one more encounter than Rampone, while USA’s experienced squad also features the likes of Shannon Boxx (15
games), Carli Lloyd (11), Heather O’Reilly (11) and Hope Solo (10). Rounding out Group D is Nigeria, and the African power has its own core of experienced players whom the Swedes know well as Perpetua Nkwocha who plays for Umea. A four-time African player of the year, the 39-year-old will figure alongside Asisat Oshoala, who picked up the continental award for the first time in 2014. Sweden has more than enough talent to survive the group stage, but the question will be whether its aging team has the depth needed to reach the medal round. They will likely place second to the United States in the group stage, although in the expanded field of 24 teams, 16 will advance from the opening round to the Round of 16, so a strong third-place showing could be enough to send Sweden through. Once in the Round of 16, the tournament becomes single knock-out and Sweden will want to finish second to avoid a possible early showdown with Germany. Sweden has never defeated Germany in a major tournament. Sweden opens its campaign June 8 against Nigeria before meeting the United States June 13 and finishing group play against Australia June 17. All matches will be shown live on U.S. TV by Fox Sports. For a complete listing, go to www.foxsports.com/ soccer and search for television schedule for fifa women’s world cup 2015.
June 15, 2015 Nordstjernan
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