Nordstjernan 1604 by Sweden in America

nordstjernan The Swedish Newspaper of America

Published by Swedish News. Volume 144 No. 04, February 29, 2016. Price per copy $2.50

Threedimensional art in dina Scandinavia

Page 21-36

Photo: Kate Gabor/kungahuset.se

Page 4

Photo: Bo Zaunders

Page 18

Photo: VS Arrowsmith

This Week, Page 18

From extensive travel and a propensity for photographing statues and sculptures, travel writer and photographer Bo Zaunders accumulated quite a portfolio of Scandinavian three-dimensional art. Here’s a look at a sampling of Scandinavia’s bronze heroes. / Page 5

Minnesota Vasaloppet Valorie Arrowsmith, Minnesota valorie@nordstjernan.com

No snow? With a little magic, the Mora Vasaloppet was a success. It was a cold -6 degrees when some participants started the Vasaloppet ski race in Mora, MN on February 13. The day was very bright and clear as skiers set out on Lake Mora, with a canon giving the start signal. From that point on the bells in the Swedish bell tower rang continuously until all the racers had crossed the finish line in downtown Mora. Plagued by a winter with little snow, the Vasaloppet planners made the decision to create a 10k loop as a circuit race, which included part of Lake Mora. This still meant

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Mora, Minnesota Vasaloppet winner.

In Brief, Page 2, 3

Global Change Awards / Quality of Life / IKEA names and games / Best Airline in Europe / No more Snickers for Sweden.

Feature, Page 8

Swedes who sing together, stay together.

Dashboard, Page 18, 19 BAM/PFA Berkley’s magnificent new Barbro Osher Theater is inaugurated with Ingmar / Pages 10, 11 Bergman’s “The Seventh Seal” (Sjunde Inseglet).

Vasaloppet ‘worldwide’

The traditional Vasaloppet in Sweden - this year on Sunday, March 6 - is a huge event with over 15,000 skiers (Counting all races during the week-long event it’s closer to 70,000). The now 90-kilometer-long (56 miles) cross-country ski race was first raced in 1922. (Only three races have been cancelled — in 1932, 1934 and 1990 — for various reasons.) Vasaloppet is usually fully booked in one to one and a half minutes when registration opens a year prior to the race. A few years ago and somewhat toungue-in-cheek, a journalist even suggested it as the new National Day, Vasaloppet, a better national holiday? In this issue we report from the Vasaloppet in Mora, Minnesota but / Pages 4 similar races are also held in Canada, China and Japan.

New stamps feature the royal family / Göteborg celebrates the sea / The Vikings come to New York / Swedish songwriting phenom awarded Polar Music Prize. Page 16

news in brief. page 2

Swedish News Klockan tickar för EU Gästledare

Sydsvenska Dagbladet 21 february, 2016

Fattade beslut om flyktingarna måste följas. På ytan kan beskedet från EUtoppmötet i veckan – att asylsökande inte ska ha rätt att välja i vilken medlemsstat de ska söka asyl – ses som en framgång för Stefan Löfvens (S) linje.

The American team of Akshay Sethi and Moby Ahmed flanking HRH Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden.

Global Change Awards

An innovative contest, sponsored by the Swedish H&M Conscious Foundation, awards winners from around the globe who create ideas that can protect our planet by reducing the impact of textile consumption. The Global Change Awards were presented by Crown Princess Victoria during a ceremony at Stockholm City Hall on Feb. 10 to five winners, selected by an international jury of experts. The winners share a grant of 1 million euros ($1.1 million) which is distributed among them according to online voting by the public. Among this year’s winners is the American team of Akshay Sethi and Moby Ahmed for their Polyester Digester, a type of microbe that eats polyester waste and creates useful ingredients to produce new polyester. They were allotted 250,000 euros ($280,000). Other winners come from Finland, Estonia, Italy and the Netherlands. The winners will participate in a oneyear innovation accelerator organized by H & M Conscious Foundation, Accenture and the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm to help them develop their ideas with a focus on three main areas: circular economy, innovation and industry linkage. A digital gathering place has been launched for innovators to present their ideas and find new partnerships: Global Change Award Network. More on the contest and the winners can be found at www.globalchangeaward.com

Quality of life in the big city

Stockholm often ranks high in polls of various kinds, but this time residents in Malmö made it clear life is good there, too. The country’s third largest city came in 17th place among 83 cities, when Europeans were asked to rank how well they enjoy their hometowns. Stockholm placed ninth in the survey, which polled more than 40,000 people all over Europe. The European Commission collected and analyzed how the populations of Europe’s cities rank their quality of life. Best among Scandinavian cities ranks Oslo, overall in second place, where 87 percent of the residents themselves say they are very satisfied with their quality of life. Danish Aalborg, places fifth on that list and Copenhagen 14th. In Malmö, 75 percent of the residents say they are “very satisfied” with their quality of life while 21 percent are “satisfied,” according to the survey released in January this year. The survey, which focused on the overall feelings among city dwellers, ranks how residents enjoy “everything” — from opportunities to play sports and education to public transportation and administrative services, are among the things to be graded. Malmö is not the only small town that gets top marks, but it’s generally smaller and quieter towns where people are happiest. Most of the Nordic countries’ capitals took top rankings, however. The Flash Eurobarometer, “Quality of life in European cities” can be downloaded (17mb) in full at www.ec.europa.eu

Simplifying buying (and selling)

Swedish e-commerce company Klarna that provides payment services for online storefronts is entering the U.S. market. The move is seen as a direct challenge to online payments giant Paypal. More info: www.klarna.com

Nordstjernan, February 29, 2016

Finlands statsminister Juha Sipilä konstaterade efter toppmötet att tiden för att hitta gemensamma lösningar börjar rinna ut: “Ju längre tid det tar att hitta en lösning i flyktingfrågan, desto fler nationella lösningar kommer vi att se.”

Sverige har infört id-kontroller vid gränsen mot Danmark, som i sin tur försöker skrämmas med signalpolitik “Det är helt avgörande för att vi ska som smyckeslagen. Och på toppmötet kunna få en rättvis fördelning av asyl- fick Österrike hård kritik för beslutet att sökande i Europa”, sade Sveriges införa ett tak för antalet asylsökande. Inte mer än 80 personer får söka asyl per dag, statsminister efter mötet. Men EU har tidigare fattat flera beslut sedan stängs gränsen. i flyktingfrågan som inte har verkställts, Ett annat och än mer förskräckligt exempelvis när stats- och regeringscheferna i september förra året enades om exempel är den östeuropeiska planen att att 160 000 asylsökande i Italien och stänga av flyktingströmmen från GrekGrekland skulle omfördelas. Bara några land genom en mur mellan Grekland och hundra har hittills flyttats. Och för varje Makedonien. Något som fick Greklands nytt beslut som medlemsländer väljer premiärminister Alexis Tsipras att ilskna att ignorera vittrar ännu en bit av EU:s till ordentligt. trovärdighet bort. Som en lärare utan auktoritet i en Löfven kallade den nuvarande flyk- skolklass med allt fler värstingar uptingkrisen för “antagligen den största prepar Europeiska rådets ordförande uppgift som unionen tagit sig an sedan Donald Tusk att EU-länderna måste den skapades”. Samtidigt är den här acceptera de lagar och regler som man typen av stora uppgifter ett av skälen till har enats om – som till exempel att att EU skapades. Och nu testas unionens Schengenreglerna snarast måste börja gälla igen. Att det överhuvudtaget behållbarhet.

höver sägas visar på tillståndet i unionen. Om tre veckor ska EU-ledarna hålla ett extrainsatt toppmöte med Turkiet. Hittills har inte samarbetet med Turkiet gett resultat och nu börjar det bli bråttom eftersom fler flyktingar väntas ge sig ut på den farliga resan över havet när vädret blir bättre. EU vill betala Turkiet för att stoppa flyktingströmmarna till Europa. Samt för bättre förhållanden för de miljontals flyktingar som finns i Turkiet. Sedan ska EU kunna ta emot ett visst antal på ett för flyktingarna mer säkert sätt. Att få stopp på de livsfarliga båtresorna över Medelhavet och att öppna säkra vägar till Europa är nödvändigt. Men att förlita sig på Turkiet som har sin egen agenda i flyktingkrisen, räcker inte. Tiden är knapp för EU och då inte enbart för att fler flyktingar väntas komma under våren och sommaren. Det är en ödesfråga på mer än ett sätt – framför allt för flyktingarna – men också för unionens framtid och för de värderingar som den bygger på.

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Founded in New York City in September 1872 Editor In Chief & Publisher: Ulf Barslund Mårtensson – www.nordstjernan.com Editor: Amanda Olson Robison (editor@nordstjernan.com) Managing Editor & Production: Everett Martin Sports Editor: Chipp Reid Art Direction: Petter Ringbom / Daniel Berubé-Arbello Contributors: Valorie Arrowsmith - Terry Lee Blunk - Claes Magnusson - Lisa Mikulski - 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 Confusing — and a great threat to America’s dignity.

Swedish News

More games at IKEA

My wife and a friend had a great time at IKEA last weekend. Fortunately I was spared the experience. Unfortunately I was not spared part of the pre-trip excitement. You see, my wife is a great planner who reads catalogs in detail, measures every surface in the house, looks at colorations and takes into consideration different times of the day — in short, she really knows what she is doing when it comes to interior decoration that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. But part of the pre-planning included her reading aloud to me the names of products at IKEA. For reasons of diplomacy and love I do not wish to judge my wife’s linguistic abilities, nor those of my friends, many of whom I have heard attempt to pronounce what IKEA is selling American consumers — and the whole world, for that matter. Who can really pronounce Swedish words but native Swedes? And some of the words IKEA assigns its products are clearly not suitable for the American tongue. Even with educated persons, pronouncing Å Ä Ö signals the loss of all adult speech dignity, and for a Swedish person to have to listen to Americans stumble their way through names as if they have been hit by a dangerous medical condition or are reverting to a kind of caveman speak, is as grating as the aural equivalent of a person using a knife instead of an osthyvel to slice cheese. My kind has repressed the IKEA words my wife was trying to pronounce, but I

found a catalog, aptly titled in big letters: “It’s the little things that matter.” It seems the good Swedes of IKEA headquarters must know how little it takes to throw off Americans while they make their way through the multiple levels of concrete floors in the big blue IKEA bunker. The catalog spelled out immediate trouble upon a random rifling of the pages. Here was SVARTÅSEN, a laptop stand — and can you hear an American pronounce this item designed for comfort? Slightly obscene is the sound, and I wonder if the people who invent the product names sit in some secret location and laugh their Swedish behinds off, anticipating the conundrum they have caused: Americans want to buy the products and will try to pronounce the Swedish word until they give up. Is this some kind of form of Swedish provincialism being exercised to prove world domination that can otherwise mostly be achieved in ice hockey? The IKEA people in their vocabulary laboratory also came up with FÖRHÖJA for a birch storage cube you can hang on the wall. That is after an American has taken karate posturing steps toward the word and sounded like a bad imitator of a Ninja fighter going off the Japanese end, no doubt insulting the language and customs of Japan as well. Opposite the FÖRHÖJA, ah-chop-sui, tae-kwon-do, a full page add in color with giant letters of RÅSKOG stands guard, a kind of rolling storage unit of shelves that will cause further indignities and linguistic shouts,

as the dreaded “Requires assembly” accompanies the product description. It was bad enough to get Americans to pronounce Häagen-Dazs, though the made-up term along with the marketing campaign, was responsible for tricking Americans to buy European, as if American wasn’t good enough anymore, as if Blue Bell could not bury a pseudoDutch-sounding ice cream with a price that should make the ice cream an imported item. Never mind that other European products like Bose in the mouths of Americans hurts the ears of linguistically discerning citizens of the world, maybe the best solution would be for IKEA to just abandon having real Swedish names for its products that no one but Swedes can pronounce. Why not just have the people in the IKEA language laboratory (in some secret location, advantageous like the fiduciary haven of Switzerland?) juggle the Å Ä Ö in dissonance with consonants to come up with product names that show true creativity and yet another poking at the world? After all, Swedes are a hardy and ingenious people, and if you let them, they can come up with all sorts of stuff, even scrambled eggs and French fries to go with potatoes at IKEA in America. Ulf Kirchdorfer ulf.kirchdorfer@nordstjernan.com

What’s really in a name? Let’s get something straight: I may be a tad more unsure about some aspects now, but when it comes to the origins of IKEA as a business, I am far from impartial or unbiased. How could I be? During my years as a writer/publisher, I have gotten to know IKEA’s founder Ingvar Kamprad from Elmtaryd in Agunnaryd, for a while bumping into him on a somewhat regular basis. He is a person I greatly admire. What do you say about someone who has built one of the world’s most successful brands? Whose now-global business concept has gone from scratch to over $30 billion in one lifetime? Ingvar Kamprad was born to farming parents in rural Småland and started pushing fountain pens through mail order in the 1940s. He has held onto a genuine interest in people and an ability to move in all circles over the years. He befriends kings and statesmen but is likely more at home with his customers, a coffee and a cinnamon bun at one of over 300 wellstocked IKEA stores around the world. Back to names. If you read the initial paragraph you found out what created the name IKEA, and as for all the product names? Well, today I wouldn’t know

fingertips and also kept 7,500 additional names handy, just in case. The product range and its presentation is the core of the business. Olausson kept track of it all at her desk near Kamprad at his round table, shown here during my 2004 visit in Älmhult, Sweden.

IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad and Maj-Britt Olausson at Kamprad’s work desk in Älmhult, 2004. but when I once met Ingvar in Älmhult in 2004, he said all the Klippan, Änga, Örebro, Ögla, Ivar, Bosse, etc. are all Swedish nouns, names and places. And one person at that time managed a database with all the used and available names and product descriptions for the then 28,500 products and product lines. That person was Maj-Britt Olausson, whose title, sortimentssekreterare, could be loosely translated as “secretary of the product range.” She had it all at her

PS. Thank you for reading our entire editorial last week - “Sweden will prevail” - on the situation with refugees arriving to Sweden and the issues surrounding them, the future of Sweden ... and not jumping to conclusions. We’ve only received heartwarming comments. Thanks. Stay proud, stay strong.

Ulf Barslund Mårtensson Editor & Publisher

Members from within the travel industry recently voted for the winners in a variety of high profile categories.

Best European Airline?

The recent Grand Travel Award Gala in Stockholm was a huge success for a previously troubled Scandinavian Airlines. SAS was named winner in three categories: Best European airline, Best intercontinental airline and Best domestic transportation. To top off the evening on February 16, the airline’s global sales manager, Annelie Nässén won the Manager of the Year Award. Twelve hundred members of the travel industry — organized by the travel trade publication Travel News — picked the winners for the annual awards. SAS won in competition with British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates and others. Among the other awards were Best Domestic Hotel Chain – Clarion; Best International No more hassle with keys Hotel Chain – Radisson Blu or wallets on the beach: and interestingly, the An- The TUI smart bracelet by nual Innovator award was Fritidsresor will take care of every worry and even awarded to Airbnb. STF regulate the air conditioning Abisko Mountain station in your room. received a well deserved Annual Ecotourism Award and the Annual Digital Award was awarded to Fritidsresor charter for its introduction of a smart bracelet, TUI, for travelers. The TUI works as a room key, can be used as a means of payment and to regulate your room’s temperature. Best Tour Operator in Special Travel was Swanson’s Travel, which specializes in travel to North America and Tourist Destination of the Year, the United States. SAS is starting non-stop service between Los Angeles and Stockholm, Sweden on March 14, 2016. Daily services to Miami will start in the fall 2016.

No more snickers for Swedes?

At least for now. American candy producer Mars Inc has recalled Snickers, Mars and Milky Way in 55 countries. All products dated best before July 2016 and January 2017 manufactured in Holland have been taken off shelves in Sweden. The reason is a piece of plastic found in a candy bar in Germany in January. Swedes won’t be able to get their Snickers fix anywhere near—Denmark, Norway, Finland, Germany are all part of the recall. Rest assured, the U.S. is not affected. Swede Among the Rednecks “A humorous look at Swedes and Swedishness” … “[written with] the gift of clarity, humor, pathos, and joy ...”

A book by Ulf Kirchdorfer from Nordstjernan Förlag, available on Amazon and through the newspaper: 800.827.9333 ext. 10

The Exchange Rate: $1.00 = SEK 8.48 02.24.2016

February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

feature. page 4

Snow or no snow, Vasaloppet is on!

Close to a thousand ski Vasaloppet, Minnesota.

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that snow had to be hauled in — from somewhere — to cover low spots, and to create a suitable trail for skiing. Since the past few years have been low on snow, the planners have explored other options. They decided a snowmaking machine could help them in the lean snow years, and in September they went about the process of checking on water resources, which involved permits and licenses within the jurisdiction of Mora and Kanabec County. A snow gun meant they would need a water source, and the committee thought the one in close proximity to the Nordic Ski Center would be the perfect fit. Other government agencies, however, had rules and statutes, which determined the feasibility of this. In the end, the group had to dig its own pond in an approved location and purchase 1000 feet of fire hose to run from the water source to the location where a snowmaking machine would be most useful. Male and female winners of each race earn a laurel wreath at the finish line. Here, the winner of the 35K for male finishers Nathan Porath. His time was 1:36:45. Photos by V. S. Arrowsmith

Through Italy to Minnesota

After agreements were signed, a major benefactor of the ski event helped in the purchase of a snow gun from Switzerland. It was ordered in plenty of time, however some paperwork was not done correctly on the seller’s end, and it languished in some unknown location in Italy for more than a month. Many phone calls by the persistent Minnesota purchasers tried to track it down and finally found it. Then the correct paperwork had to be completed so it could be released for further transit. It took a very long time but the snow gun finally arrived three weeks prior to the Mora Vasaloppet, and crews of volunteers made snow around the clock up until race day. Their new race track included a pass by the Nordic Center, some wooded and hilly areas outside town, a tour around Lake Mora, and finally a climb up the Swedish Bell Tower Hill onto Mora’s Main Street. Racers completed one, three or four loops, depending on which event they participated in. All races were shortened from the standard 13K, 35K, 42K and 58K. Participating in the many events were 22 Swedes, 11 of whom were veteraner — veterans from the Mora, Sweden Vasalopp. About 800 registrations were taken for the various races. Based on the convivial conversations in the downtown Celebration Tent, everyone had a good experience. Board member Terry Salmela said it was like pulling a rabbit out of a hat; he relayed that when folks saw the brown areas surrounding the trails, they understood what kind of magic had been in play to make the event possible. He was very pleased with all the publicity generated by the Twin Cities radio station WCCO, which sent broadcasters and television crews to Mora for several days. On the night before race day, they positioned

Nordstjernan, February 29, 2016

King Gustav Vasa and the Kranskullor wait at the finish line ready to bestow a medal around the neck of each participant. Even a Kranskulla has to take a break to check for messages ...

their evening news with the backdrop of volunteers filling Main Street with truckloads of snow, and then grooming both classic and skate ski trails. Other activities of the weekend included the first annual fat bike race and tour, the second annual skijoring event, spark sled team relays, an art show, the Vasa Trail Companion (a live radio show with local characters), a pancake breakfast, a couple nights of dancing in the downtown heated tent and a celebration

supper. The weekend came to a conclusion with skiers of all ages participating in the Mini-loppet on Sunday afternoon.

42K Classic Male: Karl Holus, age 22, Minneapolis, MN. 1:53:44.43 Female: Josie Nilsson, age 37, Medicine Lake, MN. 2:10:35.62

Race results:

58K Male: Matt Liebsch, age 32, Orono, MN. 1:52:04.21 Female: Natalja Naryshkina, age 31, Verona, WI, 2:10:30.79

13K Male: Daniel Mathews, age 18, Coon Rapids, MN. 27:14.94 Female: Olivia Jacobson, age 15, Shakopee, MN. 32:16.84 35K Male: Nathan Porath, age 33, Northfield, MN. 1:16:53.18 Female: Ashley Herman, age 19, Duluth, MN. 1:26:38.05

Fat Tire Male: Adam Bergman, age 35, Lino Lakes, MN. 1:22:05.75 Female: Kyia Anderson, age 39, St. Cloud, MN. 1:33:43.77 (no results from the Skijoring)

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How many Scandinavian sculptures do you find and recognize above? Collage: Holly Gressley.

Three-Dimensional Scandinavian Art From extensive travel and a propensity for photographing statues and sculptures, I have accumulated quite a portfolio of Scandinavian three-dimensional art. Each country, as expected, has its own set of bronze heroes, reflecting its history and culture. Iceland, appropriately, puts Leif Eriksson on a pedestal; Sweden, with Charles Xll pointing a commanding finger in the direction of Russia, still dreams of a supposedly more glorious

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past; Finland, after some 80 years, hears the world applauding as Paavo Nurmi, now frozen in action, wins his ninth gold medal in the Olympics. As my artist wife likes to point out, most of what you see is “figurative”—statues of any number of kings, often equestrian, and other human figures. But there’s also a contemporary edge to sculpture in Scandinavia, commensurate with its prominence in the world of modern design. Walking around in Copenhagen one summer, I noted a spider-like Transformed into a food sculpture, this Viking is still venturing down a Norwegian fjord, albeit not at the prow of a Longship, but on the the dining table of a luxury cruise liner.

latter may be the most outrageous and fun. One hundred and twenty-one intertwined figures crawling up a 46-foot tall “monolith.” How can you beat that? And all those surrounding figures in strange poses, and with visitors, especially children, interacting with them? Three-dimensional art is a pretty broad concept so, as long as they’re in the true Scandinavian spirit, why not include an African-inspired glass warrior, or an edible sculpture? Bo Zaunders

iron contraption hovering over most of a city square. Another startling sculpture stood in the nearby Rådhuspladsen: a 40-foot high bicycle, wrapped up in green leaves like a Maypole. On Strøget, a third piece of imaginative plastic art caught my attention—a flesh-colored chair, shaped like a woman, complete with protruding breasts. Not surprisingly, Scandinavia excels in remarkable sculpture gardens. Millesgården, outside Stockholm immediately comes to mind. And then there’s the Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo. The

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The dominant background building in the collage is the Uspenski Cathedral in Helsinki.

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February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

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Sculptures on

Charles XII

Starting out at age 17, beating the Russians in battle after battle, King Charles XII of Sweden finally met his Waterloo in the Battle of Poltava in 1709. Though losing his Baltic empire to Peter the Great, and impoverishing Sweden through extended military campaigns, he is hailed as a great national hero. This statue in Kungsträdgården in central Stockholm shows him, sword and all, pointing towards Russia.

Venus fit for a king

King Gustav III (1771-92) was the Swedish regent who personified the elegant French style of the 18th century. In the Pillared Hall in the Royal Palace, I found this marble Venus, said to bear a striking resemblance to one of the king’s favorite court ladies.

The Swedish troubadour

In songs written over a lifetime, Ewert Taube (1890-1976) sang of his adventures as a young sailor, of the simple but joyous life in the archipelago, and, with more heart and soul than anyone, expressed the love all Swedes have for the Swedish summer. Here in a statue, overlooking Lake Mälaren and City Hall, the old troubadour makes an expansive gesture as if to embrace the shimmering waters surrounding Stockholm’s Old Town.

A flesh-colored chair found in a window along Strøget, Copenhagen’s main shoping street.

Fouquet’s bronze lion

Voodooo in Småland

In moment of abandon, Kjell Engman, a prominent Swedish glass designer, jumps into one of Småland’s numerous little lakes, posing with what he calls a “Voodoo” sculpture—an African warrior with a polychromatic plume, complete with candycolored spear.

For nearly 300 years, this stout-hearted cat has guarded Stockholm’s Royal Palace from his elevated post on the northern slope. More recently, he has seen a rise in the number of balloons floating above the city. A contemporary with the Montgolfier Brothers, he must feel that nothing much has changed.

St. Göran & Draken

King Sten Sture (St. George) defending Stockholm (the fair princess) against Denmark (the ugly dragon). Celebrating the Battle of Brunkeberg (1471), in which Sweden defeated Denmark, this statuary, created by the famous Bernt Notke from Lübeck, is by many considered one of the finest works of medieval sculpture in northern Europe. The original, which was carved in oak, painted and gilded, now stands in Storkyrkan in Stockholm’s Old Town. This bronze casting is located at Köpmantorget, just a few short blocks away.

Nordstjernan, February 29, 2016

The ultimate peace symbol

This refreshingly unusable 45-caliber revolver was photographed near the railroad station in Malmö, Sweden. Also on view at the United Nations in New York City, it was created in 1980 as a peace symbol by the Swedish artist Karl Fredrik Reuterswärd.

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my mind

Fooling pedestrians

In 1969, in a magazine contest, the Swedish actor and author Hans Alfredsson, was voted “the funniest person in Sweden.” A year later, his face showed up in this sculpture by K.G. Bejeman. Titled “Humor,” it pops up in a street corner near the Dramaten, the Royal Dramatic Theater, and has for many years startled and delighted passersby.

H. C. Andersen’s little mermaid

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She is tiny, only about four feet high. Even so she is a great national symbol, comparable to the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty. Her story begins in 1909, when Denmark’s big-time brewer and philanthropist, Carl Jacobsen (of Carlsberg fame) saw celebrated ballet dancer Ellen Price in Henriques’ ballet “The Little Mermaid.” Overwhelmed by her performance, Jacobsen persuaded the ballerina to pose for sculptor Edward Eriksen. She posed—but only from the neck up. For the rest of the body, Eriksen’s wife had to step in. A few years later, The Little Mermaid sculpture was installed on a granite boulder in the harbor just north of central Copenhagen. Now, more than a million people visit her every year. But like in Andersen’s sad tale, the life of The Little Mermaid has been far from easy. Her arms were cut off by vandals once, and twice, in 1964 and 1998, she lost her head. Fortunately, the original mold exists, so it has always been possible to recast the bronze and weld back any missing body parts.

The sky is the limit

Many of the works of Carl Milles (1875-1955), Sweden’s perhaps most famous sculptor, depict man’s yearning for freedom, for breaking boundaries. Here, in the “Hand of God,” man is lifted to heaven. This is one of the many sculptures that can be seen in Millesgården, the villa and sculpture garden just outside Stockholm (the original bronze cast is in downtown Detroit – not far from Cranbrook, Michigan, where Milles worked for 21 years).

The flying Finn 13

Taking artistic license, Sculptor Wäinö Aaltonen gave dynamic smooth to the movement of Paavo Nurmi, Finland’s legendary long-distance champion of the twenties. Instead of having his hero race the way he did, using the entire length of his 12 An abundance of poses soles, Aaltonen made him Some crawl, others have their legs up in the air. One little boy is run lightly on his toes. He stomping his feet and screaming. They are old and young, thin and chubby. They are all part of what their creator, the Norwegian sculptor also portrayed Nurmi in the nude, a concession to Gustav Vigeland, titled the “Cycle of Life,” and can be found in the the neoclassical style of the Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo. Watching the visitors interact with day. In all, Aaltonen made these groups in granite is part of the fun. Children, especially, add a five full-length bronze whole new dimension to the park. casts, four of which are placed in various places Some Scandinavian statuary is not in Finland. This one, very serious. Getting off the ship in appropriately, is situated Norway once, I was greeted at the in front of the Helsinki harbor by this guy, peering at me Olympic Stadium. from below his oversized helmet.

First link with America

Here, in silhouette, stands the famous Viking explorer, Leif Ericsson. He discovered North America, and, in gratitude, the U.S. government donated a statue of him to Iceland, his home country. It rises on top of Reykjavik’s highest hill, against the backdrop of Hallgrim’s Church, the sculptural quality of which is even more remarkable. The church was built in the 1930s by State Architect Gudjon Samuelsson, and named after Iceland’s most beloved poet, Rev. Hallgrimur Petursson (1614-1674).

Granite-jawed, grim, mythic Isometric and towering, the two lantern keepers guarding the main entrance of the railroad station in Helsinki are hard to miss. They have stood there since 1914, managing to look Egyptian, Teutonic, and Finnish, all at the same time. Legend has it that the sculptor, Emil Wikström, used his muscular gardener for a model. As a member of a Lutheran sect called the Pietists, the gardener wore his hair long, as do the giants.

Text & Photography: Bo Zaunders February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

feature. page 8

Swedes who love to sing In August 1996 seven guys from Atlanta came together to practice singing for the Nordic Lodge crawfish party the next month. The group was Bruce Larson, Sam Linden, Gunnar Carteng, Sten Ekberg, Dale Nordin, Dennis Carlson and myself. We performed for 30 minutes as “The Vikings.” It sounded pretty good and we got an appetite for more. We changed our name to “Vasa Drängar” (meaning Vasa farmhands) and started to rehearse on a regular basis. “Vasa Drängar” was inspired by the famous Swedish men’s choir Orphei Drängar of Uppsala. We decided to celebrate our two decades of singing. On May 22, we will host a concert, singing a cappella as well as with an ensemble from the Atlanta Balalaika Society. Accompanist on the piano will be Gabe Granitz. A special guest artist is coming from the Royal Swedish Opera in Stockholm, Sweden — tenor Niklas Björling Rygert, who since 1999 has been part of the permanent soloist’s ensemble at this great opera house. Niklas has performed a great number of opera parts which gave him international attention and took him to Valencia, Spain, where he sang under renowned conductor Zubin Mehta’s baton. Since then he has been regularly working with Mehta. He has also been a special guest at many opera houses in Madrid, Frankfurt, Dresden, Amsterdam and Florence. At the Atlanta concert in May Niklas will perform with Vasa Drängar and the Atlanta Balalaika Ensemble. The ensemble will feature Angelina Galashenkova, one of the best in the world on the domra, a Russian stringed instrument. For many years she performed as a soloist with the famous Andreyev State Russian Orchestra in St. Petersburg, Russia.

She now resides in Atlanta and is a member and concert master of our balalaika orchestra. The ensemble will be led by the orchestra’s conductor and balalaika soloist, David C. Cooper. It will also feature bayan soloist Alla Melnik. We will play and sing beautiful Swedish folk songs as well as exciting songs in Russian, songs from Pavarotti’s and Jussi Björling’s repertoires, English ballads and even a couple ABBA favorites. Put May 22, 2016 in your calendar, 5 p.m. at Winters Chapel United Methodist Church, 5105 Winters Chapel Rd., Atlanta, GA 30360. It will be a great concert! Göran Rygert Vasa Drängar, Atlanta, GA www.vasadrangar.org

Vasa Drängar, the Swedish men’s choir in Atlanta, will soon celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Ten of today’s 12 active Vasa Drängar members, including three of the original members: Sten Ekberg, Dale Nordin and Göran Rygert.

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The 123 Swedes on board made up the third largest ethnic group on the Titanic after the American and the British. The book profiles each of the Swedish passengers; including the 34 survivors... Mail order form to: NORDSTJERNAN P.O. Box 1710 New Canaan CT 06840 Or call 1.800.827.9333 ext. 10

feature. page 9 perspectives.

Olle Wijkström olle.wijkstrom@nordstjernan.com

Förra sommaren mötte jag en storgråtande parvel på fem år. Det var utanför fiskdammen på Gröna Lund. För andra gången i rad när han förväntansfullt drog upp snöret ur fiskdammen fann han att han igen bara funnit en metkrok. Hur trist kan livet vara för en femöring? Så fortsätter det för många. Livet kan vara en enda stor djävla tombola! Ingen vet på förhand vem eller vilka som drar in de största vinsterna. Däri ligger givetvis också lockelserna. I Bryssel har EUs och stats- och regeringschefer länge varit samlade för att diskutera Storbritanniens framtida relation till EU. Många engelsmän anser att England skulle sköta sig bättre på egen hand utan direktiv från Bryssel. Liknande tankar florerar bland svenskar beträffande vår medverkan i EU. ”Dramat är över” twittrade Litauens president från middagsbordet i Bryssel lördagen den 20 februari, när alla regeringschefer förstod att de lyckats komma överens med David Cameron om Storbritanniens fortsatta medlemskap ”Deal! Enhälligt stöd för en ny uppgörelse” skrev EUs förhandlare, Tusk. ”Jag har förhandlat fram en uppgörelse som ger Förenade kungariket specialstatus inom EU ” konstaterade en lättad premiärminister, David Cameron. Inom euro-zonen har stor oro funnits för att Storbritannien ska få för stor möjlighet att stoppa eller försena euro-beslut. Den utlovade folkomröstningen i England väntas äga rum den 23 juni. Omröstningen väntas bli tuff för Cameron som kommer att få

Pea Soup and Pancakes Tillvarons orättvisor

mothugg från flera ministrar i den egna regeringen. Under fredagskvällen uppgav BBC att justitieminister Michael Gove valt att ställa sig på ”lämna EU”- sidan. Ännu är därför ingenting definitivt klart. Storbritanniens invånare bestämmer i folkomröstningen i juni. Som alltid finns det minus och plus. Självklart skall vi vara med och besluta om vad som händer i Europa. Vi är ju européer säger kanske fler än 50% av engelsmännen. Dessutom finns det mängder av frågor vi i Europa måste samsas om. Invandring är en. Omsorgen om klimatet ett annat. Brottsligheten etc. etc. På minus-sidan menar andra att EU lägger sig i för mycket, att EU innebär en extra byråkratisering etc. Samma typ av argumentation som finns bland andra länders medborgare. Inte minst bland svenskar. Min förhoppning är dock att de mest avgörande frågorna om fortsatt gemenskap blir de avgörande. De stora problem vi just nu upplever beträffande den stora invandringen av flyktingar ställer stora krav på Europa att lösa i samdräkt. Samma sak gäller många andra saker som kräver samverkan och förståelse. Även om jag högaktar och beundrar individuella insatser tror jag att frågan om samverkan i just detta sammanhang är den mest betydelsefulla. Jag hoppas att Storbritanniens befolkning därför kommer att rösta ”ja” på det beslut om fortsatt medlemskap i EU som deras premiärminister kom överens om med EUs övriga regeringschefer i Bryssel. Tyvärr har resultatet av folkomröstningar samma drag av ovisshet kring sig som vad man får för napp i en fiskdamm eller en tombola. Tillfälliga stämningar och förväntningar spelar större roll än långsiktigt försiktiga analyser.

A room full of folks gathered in Mora, MN for the annual Swedish luncheon.

A room full of folks interested in enjoying good company and traditional Swedish food gathered in mid-January for the annual pea soup and pancake lunch, hosted by the Dala Heritage Society. Gordon Hallstrom, president, gave a little Swedish lesson and helped people understand how to pronounce some of the vowels with dots or circles over them. He gave the group a couple songs as vehicles for practice, particularly the old emigrant favorite “Hälsa dem där hemma.” The Dala Heritage Society offers several events and programs during the year that focus on Swedish and Swedish-American culture

and celebrations. Sankta Lucia and Midsommar are two significant events, plus many of the guests present host incoming Swedish cross country skiers for the annual Vasaloppet ski events over the February 13th weekend. The big races are on Saturday, with events like Skijoring on Sunday. Everyone is welcome to be a part of the organization. For more information call 320679-3869.

Our heritage, that of Swedish descendants here in America, blesses all of us with traditions, wisdoms and culture. It is a living heritage and a link we are proud to maintain—a link of traditions between families, friends and Swedes across the nation.

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The Pacific states. page 10

Barbro Osher Honor Benefits Cinephiles

by Ted Olsson, San Francisco ted@nordstjernan.com

For more than a year, whenever I had the opportunity to visit UC Berkeley’s Scandinavian Department, I walked passed the construction of a building near campus. The building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is intriguing: very angular with skylights and windows both bringing in light and inviting passersby to peek in and then come in. At one point it looked like the university cleaned up and reused its former printing plant, but now sweeping over the roof is a glistening, angular ribbed-metal wing cascading down from the five-story roof as though it were a waterfall channeled into a point on the ground. Adjoining this at a 90 degree angle is a huge screen facing the corner of Addison and Oxford streets. Inside, the dynamic tension between galleries, café and theater complements and contrasts as one functional area leads to the next. This is a collection of spaces in which to contemplate superb international art and the research facilities in which to study troves of media and commentary. This is the magnificent new home of the Berkeley Art Museum (BAM) and the stunning Pacific Film Archives (PFA), which focuses on foreign films from around the world. Together the two form BAM/PFA (www. bampfa.org), the visual arts center of the University of California, Berkeley.

The Barbro Osher Theater

On Wednesday, Feb. 3, I had the distinct pleasure to be among a sold-out crowd visiting the reopening of the PFA at its new home, the Barbro Osher Theater, named for our

own Consul General of Sweden for northern California, who together with her husband, Barney Osher, are among the most generous philanthropists for the arts and education locally, regionally and nationally (the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes is in all 50 states). The program opened with refreshments and an appreciative toast to the museum’s benefactor. We were in BAMPFA’s interesting sunken amphitheater, Crane Forum, with a huge mural on the wall and several levels of wood stadium benches with cushions spread about. At one end of the amphitheater, the tiers rise one floor high with a staircase beside the other wall. The entire amphitheater probably packs in a couple hundred people. The chairman of the BAMPFA board, acknowledging that he and Barbro go back at least a third of a century on the board, thanked the Oshers for their generosity, which has often been crucial for sustaining it, and as in this case, for creating new venues and ventures. He was followed by BAMPFA Director Lawrence Rinder, who similarly thanked Barbro for her enthusiastic support for their mission which brought them to today. As the audience then filed into the new stateof-the-art theater, we appreciated how this new facility would bring thousands of cinephiles from the campus and surrounding Bay Area to view the most moving of our contemporary art forms. Susan Oxtoby, senior film curator of PFA, took the lectern to describe the new season’s remarkable offerings. She thanked the Oshers for donating this gift for all movielovers, which will allow them to appreciate the art and its development through the ages, across time and space, yet with particular depth in the masters of the medium, which the Oshers have also supported.

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Photography: Iwan Baan, BAM/PFA

The Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archives at Center and Oxford streets.

Celebrants at inauguration: Susan Oxtoby (PFA senior film curator), Barbro Osher (namesake of PFA theater), Jamie Lunder (donor of renewed version of The Seventh Seal film), and Lawrence Rinder (BAMPFA Director).

The arrival of a masterpiece

When it was Barbro’s turn to speak, she gave heartfelt thanks to her husband (and his consigliere) for their kindness in naming this theater for her. Many people delight in their home theater systems, but imagine, she remarked, having a theater named for you to entertain others on a topic you are so passionate about. She also thanked the PFA for allow- Barbro and Barney Osher in front of Theater marquee. ing her to choose the first film. Of course, she admitted, it was not hard to select the Swedish director, Ingmar Bergman, but which of his great offerings? She chose the iconic classic, The Seventh Seal, because for her, like so many others, it was the heralding comet announcing the arrival of a world master and a masterpiece. And as she thought back with great BAMPFA, corner with large screen at Addison and Oxford streets. pleasure to her student days in tions of students and lovers of cinema to Sweden, she was grateful there were little cinemas in every town, not show- appreciate the most significant of films for ing trivial American amusements but the art their art and intellect. The new museum has a wonderful new films from the best of Europe and elsewhere. Professor Linda Haverty Rugg, an author- café where members and guests can relax ity on Ingmar Bergman from UC Berkeley’s and discuss interpretations or be inspired Scandinavian Department, provided a most to create new masterpieces. We thank and interesting introduction to the film, piquing congratulate Barney and Barbro Osher for our interest in seeing the film with new in- such a significant monument. They are both sight. We were lucky enough to do so there indeed our benefactors, not merely etymologically as “do-gooders” but as importantly in the new Barbro Osher Theater. With this auspicious beginning, PFA’s for continually improving our communities Barbro Osher Theater sets the standard for and lifetime learners. the institution’s teaching of new genera-

The Pacific states. page 11

Theater opens with Bergman On its auspicious opening night, the magnificent new home of the Berkeley Art Museum (BAM) and the stunning Pacific Film Archives (PFA), the Barbro Osher Theater sets the standard for teaching and appreciating the most significant of films for their art and intellect. Barbo Osher herself, together with her husband Barney, were honored and thanked for the significant monument to art they made possible through their generosity in donating this gift for all movie-lovers. Barbro Osher, Consul General of Sweden for northern California, spoke with heartfelt thanks in naming this theater for her. She also thanked the PFA for allowing her to choose the first film to be shown in the Barbro Osher Theater: of course, she admitted, it was not hard to select the director, Ingmar Bergman. She chose his iconic classic, The Seventh Seal, because for her, like so many others, it was the heralding comet announcing the arrival of a world master and a masterpiece. Professor Linda Haverty Rugg, an authority on Ingmar Bergman from UC Berkeley’s Scandinavian Department, provided a most interesting introduction to the film, even for those of us who had seen it numerous times. Her talk piqued our interest in seeing the film with new insight. She put the movie into context — most of us recognized this film as a classic masterpiece without realizing that before this Bergman was best known internationally for comedy: He had won the prize for romantic comedy at Cannes the year before in 1956 for “Smiles of a Summer Night” and would win the next year with “The Seventh Seal.” Astonishing to me were two facts: 1) the film’s script had originally been rejected by an ignorant and bureaucratic decision of Svensk Filmindustri; and 2) when they finally accepted Bergman’s script, they gave him but three dozen days to complete it,

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PFA’s magnificent new Barbro Osher Theater is inaugurated with Ingmar Bergman’s “The Seventh Seal.”

The iconic final scene of the movie depicting the “dance macabre.”

Inside the Barbro Osher Theater, #2.

which is stunning, even for a low budget, black and white film. Fortunately, Ingmar Bergman was working with his repertory theater troupe of actors, and his team of just 25 people (cast and crew!) shot two iconic scenes on location in southern Sweden, while most of the film was created in a Stockholm sound studio. Given Max von Sydow’s fame and starring role in this film, I had not realized this was his first movie with Bergman, though at age 27 he had already been a member of Bergman’s theater company of actors. What was revelatory was how Berg-

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man deepened the roles of his actors with each subsequent film. Rugg revealed that with this film Bergman really began to deploy his corps of actors in stylized symbolic roles in s u b s eq u en t films: Max von Sydow the striving, disappointed idealist; Gunnar Björstrand the pragmatic, worldly skeptic; Bibbi Andersson the optimistic, naïve young woman. Rugg showed how Bergman played out this — and more — through his films: “Their moves change in relationship to the other figures and according to the grand strategy of the game, but their basic characters remain the same.” I can’t wait to examine other Bergman films with this new understanding. Professor Rugg startled the audience with a well-chosen quote, made more profound by the fact that Bergman’s father was a Lutheran pastor, whose sermons and services his son had to endure. Rugg taught us the impact of that tutelage, as reflected upon later by Bergman: “Like all churchgoers in all times I have been absorbed by altar paintings, altarpieces, crucifixes, stained glass windows and murals. There was Jesus, bloody and tortured, Mary leaning against John: Behold your mother, behold your son. Maria Magdalena, the sinner, the knight playing chess with Death. Death cutting down the tree of life with a saw, a terrified poor sinner sitting at the top, wringing his hands.”

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As people in medieval Scandinavia attempted to make sense of life from their culture’s image, so we today search for meaning through the art of today: cinema. Rugg referred to the contradictory exchange of perspectives in Bergman’s script as the equivalent for the medieval theological debate poems, but because of the brutality depicted in the film, I always considered it more in terms of the medieval “flying,” the ritualistic poetic exchange of insults (from Old English flytan (quarrel), from Old Norse flyta (provocation)). Rugg surely is correct that the film’s story — coming after WWII in Europe with its millions dead and displaced, followed by the armageddon of the Cold War with fears of a MAD (Mutual Assured Destruction) nuclear apocalypse haunting the survivors — was not only appropriate more than half a century ago but is also important for us now. Today we face our current threats: irrational and hysterical clamor stifling and stopping us from acting on global warming; religious wars; today’s equivalent of the medieval Black Death as a series of infectious diseases (AIDS, ebola, Zika); mass migrations of refugees inducing quarrels among otherwise cohesive nations; preachers and politicians reciting jeremiads while the masses chant in unison their own versions of these “Days of (Divine) Wrath” (Dies Irae); some even trying to hasten the end of days in order to be eternally saved. Professor Rugg immeasurably increased the enjoyment of this classic for me and everyone else in the audience that night with her stimulating seminar. Ted Olsson San Francisco

“The Seventh Seal” on top list Ingmar Bergman has directed the world’s 8th best film in a language other than English. How does that sound? It’s the British film magazine Empire that has published a list of the 100 best films in a language other than English. Topping the list is Akiro Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai.” “The Seventh Seal,” which was made in 1957, is the only Swedish film among the top 10. Bergman’s “Persona,” from 1966, ranks 71 and Tomas Alfredson’s vampire movie, “Let the right one in,” is number 15. Here are the top ten films according to Empire: 1. “Seven Samurai” 2. “Amélie” 3. “The Battleship Potemkin” 4. “The Bicycle Thief” 5. “Pan’s Labyrinth” 6. “The Battle of Algiers” 7. “City of God” 8. “The Seventh Seal” 9. “The Wages of Fear” 10. “Spirited Away.”

February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

feature. page 12

A different kind of educational experience in the world, and just 15 minutes by car or bus from Arlanda International Airport.

Dr. Margret Benedikz

Dear Parent, Dear Student, I’m visiting the U.S. at the end of February and beginning of March to tell students and families looking for a different kind of educational experience about what Sigtunaskolan Humanistiska Läroverket has to offer. We’re a small school comprised of approximately 500 day- and boarding students. Many boarders come from Swedish families living abroad or families who have a connection to Sweden. We also have students from the U.S., Switzerland, France, Italy, Russia and China who have no Swedish connection but come to study with us because they just wanted to do something different. After all, with so many students with high grades applying to college, studying abroad can help you stand out from the crowd. I think what makes us an attractive place to study is the wide range of study opportunities that we offer and our unique, beautiful setting. We have a range of programs for students between the ages of 13-19 taught in Swedish or English. All our high school programs qualify you for university studies in Sweden or abroad. The school is situated in Sigtuna, one of Sweden’s most beautiful old towns, on the banks of Lake Mälaren. With a population of only 10,000, Sigtuna has a very friendly atmosphere and is popular with families. We’re also just 20 minutes from the centre of Stockholm, one of the most beautiful capitals

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At SSHL we place a strong focus on academics because we want every student at SSHL to perform to the very best of their ability. Every boarding student is supported outside class by an academic tutor who is available to help six days a week. The boarding homes are small and friendly, with approximately 20-25 students in each, so there’s a real home-from-home feel to the school. Life, however, isn’t just about studying at SSHL. Students have access every day to a wide range of activities. In the spring and summer, students play sports like golf, soccer, tennis or go rowing; and in the winter there’s the chance to go skiing or skating, as well as play indoor sports. All year round there’s art, theatre and music to keep students busy.

The school is situated in Sigtuna, one of Sweden’s most beautiful old towns.

We encourage our boarders to do as many extracurricular activities as possible during their time with us because it’s a great way to make friends but also let off steam and not think about studies. If you’re in New York or Florida, I do hope you were able to come and find out more from me in person. If not, please visit www.sshl.se Dr. Margret Benedikz

Director, Sigtunaskolan Humanistiska Läroverket

Margret Benedikz is in the U.S. • 27 Feb (4 p.m.) - Oleta River State Park, North Miami Beach • 1 March (5:30 - 8 p.m.) - University Club New York • 2 March (1 - 3 p.m.) - Hyatt Regency Hotel Greenwich More info online, see www.sshl.se

Sofia Hansson, 18, IB Diploma Program Half-Swedish, half-Korean, Sofia came to SSHL to reconnect with her Swedish roots after many years living in Paris.

Sweden a great place. SSHL is both very Swedish and international. It felt like the right place to me to come and study.”

“I wanted to experience Sweden again. I hadn’t lived here since I was 7,” Sofia says. “I guess I was attracted to SSHL because of its unique combination of all that makes

As a boarding student, Sofia has found a perfect balance between home and school.

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“Living at school helps me stay focused on my studies,” says Sofia, who hopes to one day study aeronautical engineering at university. “When I’m not studying there’s time for cozy evenings at home with the other girls in Haga or I do extracurricular activities like ballet or golf.” During her time at SSHL, Sofia feels she’s really grown. “Everyone’s made welcome in boarding, no matter where they’re from. It’s been easy to be myself. It’s a supportive place to be and just as the older girls helped me when I started, I’ve come to take more responsibility helping the new girls feel welcomed and comfortable with this new environment, giving something back. “I love the atmosphere at SSHL, my friends and the opportunities you have here. I’ve made so many friends here. Friends for life.”

local events. page 13

More events and list your own, at www.nordstjernan.com-EVENTS

l California l Florida

Continuously The Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce of Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach promotes trade, commerce and investment opportunities between Sweden, Fort Lauderdale - Palm Beach and members. See www.sacc-sfl.org

l Illinois

01.15.2016 - 03.26.2016 MIgrating Visions: The Art of Indira and Karl Johnson. Living and creating together in India, Sweden and the United States for over 40 years has had a profound influence on the work of wife and husband artists Indira and Karl Johnson. They met at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the late sixties and as their work evolved over

the next four decades, their individual thoughts and ideas have migrated back and forth appearing in different forms in each other’s art. 773728-8111 | www.swedishamericanmuseum.org 02.21.2016 12:00 PM - 0417.2016 03:00 PM The Swedish American Museum houses the Andersonville Winter Market on the third Sunday of the month now through April. 03.04.2016 07:30 PM - 03.18.2016 10:00 PM Scandinavian Dances with Linda and Paul Three Friday Sessions: March 4, 11, 18, 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. www.swedishamericanmuseum.org |773-728-8111 03.06.2016 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM Herring Breakfast Join us for a traditional fried herring breakfast which includes meatballs, potato sausage, and much more. The brunch is catered by Tre Kronor Restaurant. Suggested donation to attend: $30/members, $35/non-members. Confirmed reservations are required. Reserve space for this popular event on the website: www.swedishamericanmuseum.org 03.12.2016 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM Pancakes with Pippi Join Pippi Longstocking for Swedish pancakes, crafts, singing and dancing. This is a unique opportunity to meet Pippi and learn how to make pancakes Pippi-style! All ages are welcome. www.swedishamericanmuseum.org 03.13.2016 04:00 PM - 03.13.2016 05:30 PM Swedish Immigration and Culture in Argentina. Dr. Jane L. Florine, professor of ethnomusicology/ musicology at Chicago State University, will discuss past Swedish immigration to Argentina and its cultural legacy there. 773-728-8111 03.15.2016 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM Easter Crafts for Kids. Kids will learn about all the fun Swedish Easter traditions from creating Easter trees with feathers to dressing up as witches! Suggested donation: $5/child paid onsite. 03.19.2016 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM “The Dream of America” Guided exhibit tour of the Swedish American Museum’s permanent exhibit 03.20.2016 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bullerbyn Taking place roughly every other Sunday in tandem with Svenska Skolan, Bullerbyn is a

time for singing cherished children’s songs, reading fun tales, and having lots of fun in Swedish. Children ages 6 months to 5 years are welcome to attend with a parent. Only Swedish is spoken at this event. www.swedishamericanmuseum.org | 773-728-8111 Continuously Step back in time in historic Bishop Hill. Utopia on the Prairie, then and now. For information call 309-927-3899 or email heritage@bishophill. com. Visit our Website at: www.bishophill.com

l Minnesota

01.23.2016 PM - 05.22.2016 04:30 PM The Watercolor Worlds of Lars Lerin. Solo exhibition of contemporary Swedish watercolor master Lars Lerin (b. 1954). American Swedish Institute 2600 Park Avenue Minneapolis MN 55407. 612-871-4907 | www.asimn.org 03.17.2016 05:00 PM - 06:30 PM Celebrate St. Urho’s Day with the Scandiband. Concert performed by the Spirit River Scandiband at North Country Coffee in North Branch. A meal beings at 5 p.m., with music at 5:30. Donations of $5-15 are cheerfully accepted for the music. All are invited to wear purple and green, St. Urho’s colors. We R Able. www.scred.k12.mn.us 03.19.2016 02:00 PM - 03.19.2016 03:00 PM Two Perspectives on Swedish textiles Taking Care of Modern Swedish Textile Legacies: Two Perspectives. Tapestry artist Helena Hernmarck and Frida Lindberg of Alice Lund Textilier AB discuss their partnership in extending the legacy of modern Swedish textile designer Alice Lund and sustaining Alice Lund Textilier in Dalarna, Sweden. Registration recommended, $10 ASI Members/ $15 non-members. American Swedish Institute. 612.871.4907 | www.asimn.org

l New York

03.12.2016 02:00 PM - 04.02.2016 08:00 PM Damascus II. August Strindberg’s tale of life in decadent artists’ circles of 1890s Sweden is brought to life in 1960s California. Presented by August Strindberg Repertory Theatre in association with Theater Resources Unlimited. The Gene Frankel Theatre, 24 Bond St., NYC. (212) 346-8450 | www. strindbergrep.com

l Pennsylvania

03.20.2016 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM Easter Family Fun Day and Egg Hunt Introduce your little ones to Swedish Easter traditions. Children can make Swedish Easter crafts, dress up as Swedish Easter witches, enjoy face painting, and go on an egg hunt. This year, artists from The Clay Studio will be joining the fun by helping families design a clay animation! Join them to create and animate clay characters using the art of stop motion. Learn to create a story, supply voices for characters and bring your creation to life. The Clay Studio will edit the videos and post to YouTube. Free for members and children 2 years and under, $8 for non-members. Pay at the door, no registration needed. American Swedish Historical Museum. 215.389.1776. www.americanswedish.org

l Washington

02.21.2016 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM Brooding Baltic Breezes. The Mostly Nordic Chamber Music Series and Smörgåsbord has entertained our guests for more than two decades.This month’s concert: “Brooding Baltic Breezes” from FINLAND: The innovative and versatile Kairos Quartet quartet-in-residence at Central Washington University since 1998 have toured internationally, seeking to break down the barriers between audience and performers. Program features global works of Sibelius String Quartet “Voces Intimae” and William Walton’s timeless String Quartet in A Minor. www.nordicmuseum.org/mostlynordic. WA 03.15.2016 05:00 PM - 03.18.2016 08:00 PM Immigration Conference In collaboration with six cultural institutions from the Nordic Region, the Nordic Heritage Museum is hosting this exciting international Immigration Conference. A comprehensive program of five sessions with 17 museum professionals and academics from Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Germany, and various locations in the United States will explore the impact of Nordic immigration to the Pacific Northwest from the 1850s to the 21st century. Key Note Speaker is Diana Pardu, Chief of Museum Programs at the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum. Nordic Heritage Museum. http://nordicmuseum.org/events/immigrationconference | 206.789.5707 03.20.2016 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM The Dania Project. The Mostly Nordic Chamber Music Series and Smörgåsbord presents the Dulcina ensemble. A historically informed performance from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance with douçaines, vielles, recorders, rebecs, citoles, bagpipes, sordunes, and rackets in works by Danish masters Truid Aagesen, Mogens Pedersøn and Carl Nielsen expanding into Danish fiddle tune and national song tradition, and forays into the contemporary world of Danish jazz. www.nordicmuseum.org | 206.789.5707

Välkommen till

Söndag 13 mars kl 11.00

Gudstjänst

Kyrkoherde Staffan Eklund, Diakon Åsa Sjöberg. Församlingskören medverkar. Åsa Sjöberg avtackas. Efter gudstjänsten inbjuder SWEA till kyrkkaffe. Därefter församlingens årsmöte. Söndag 13mars kl 18 - Spring Celebration Fundraising event (Se hemsidan för mer information och anmälan)

Church of Sweden at Norwegian Seamen’s Church 2454 Hyde Street, San Francisco • Tel: 415-632-8504 Mer information: www.svenskakyrkan.se/sanfrancisco

5 East 48th Street, New York, NY 10017 Tel: +1 (212) 832-8443

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February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

local events. page 14

Celebrating Strong Swedish Women In observance of the International Women’s Day on March 8: Swedish history seen from a woman’s perspective March 8 is the International Women’s Day, and in a country like Sweden it is relatively good to be a woman. Here’s a brief outline of how women’s rights have changed in Sweden. 1748 – Den Kungliga Vetenskapsakademien (The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences) receives its first female member: Countess Eva De la Gardie-Ekeblad 1845 – Equal right of inheritance for men and women is introduced. 1846 – Unmarried women (including widows and divorcees) are permitted to work with crafts and certain trade.

1909 – Selma Lagerlöf receives the Nobel Prize in Literature.

1982 –Women may chose to keep their maiden name at time of marriage.

1985 – Karin Söder becomes Sweden’s first female party leader (the Center Party).

1919 – Women get the right to vote.

1983 – All professions are open for women. Even in Swedish national defense.

1994 – The Swedish Parliament becomes the most equal in the world, of the 349 members, 144 are women.

1935 – Women get the same kind of state pension as men.

1958 – Women are allowed to become pastors. 1960 – Same salary for same work for men and women. 1970 – Equal rights are written into the curriculum at schools.

1853 – Women are given the right to teach in smaller folk schools.

1976 – Anna Christensen becomes the first female professor of law.

1864 – Men lose their rights to own their wives.

1980 - Sweden is the first monarchy to change its succession rites so the first-born child of the monarch is heir to the throne, regardless of gender. This means Princess Victoria, the first child of King Carl XVI Gustaf is the heir to the throne.

1872 – Women may decide for themselves who they want to marry. 1901 – Right to time off (without salary) for women after they’ve given birth.

1997 – Christina Odenberg becomes the first female bishop.

1936 – Women employed by the state get the right to take a leave of absence during pregnancy and birth. Paid.

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sports. page 15

European windfall over Skåne team

Photo: Christian Örnberg/Bildbyran

Malmö has reaped the financial rewards of playing in the European Champions League.

Chipp Reid, Sports Editor chipp@nordstjernan.com

Malmö president Niclas Carlnén makes no secret of wanting his club to become the next Rosenborg, the Norwegian side that funded a decade of success by always reaching the group stage of the UEFA Champions League. Malmö accomplished the same feat in 2014 and 2015, and despite collecting just a win and tie in eight games, the Sky Blues made out like bandits. Last year, Malmö raked in nearly a half-billion Swedish crowns ($59 million), a record amount for any Swedish sports team. Malmö’s profit was more than 235 million crowns ($27.7 million), another Swedish record for a sports franchise. The massive war chest has transformed Malmö from a minnow to a shark as the Swedish club is now able to compete for players — to an extent — against larger European clubs. And, it is poised to rake in even more money as it puts its Champions League earnings to good use. “We have expanded our youth development, improved our training facilities and we will pay off the remainder of what we owe on Swedbank Stadion,” said club CEO Niclas Carlnén. “We are in a very strong position financially and we can compete now in the transfer market.” Malmö has already flexed its muscles, plucking Danish star Anders Christiansen from Italian Serie A club Verona for a reported 10 million crowns ($1 million). Almost overnight,

Christensen made Malmö the favorite to once more win the Lennart Johansson trophy in the Allsvenskan after finishing fifth in 2015. The Sky Blues won a bidding war for Iceland international Vidar Örn Kjartansson and was able to prevent Spanish club Real Valladolid from grabbing up Under-21 Swedish international Oscar Lewicki. The Skåne side then beat several teams in France for the services of Ghanaian teen Samuel Tetteh, a player many scouts have compared to former French superstar Zinedine Zidane. Malmö’s biggest acqiuisition, however, was luring Danish coach Allan Kuhn away from Aalborg in the Danish Superliga. He replaced Åge Hareide, who left Malmö to become manager of the Danish national team. Kuhn helped transform FC Midtjylland into a Champions League group stage side and was instrumental in developing an offensive, possession-based style of soccer the entire club adopted from the youth teams to its professional side.

Next Scandinavian superclub

The moves and the money have Malmö poised to become the next Scandinavian superclub. Rosenborg, which ruled Norwegian soccer for more than a second in the late 1990s and early 2000s, was the first Scandinavian side to use its success in European play to fuel dominance in its domestic league, which in turn, kept Rosenborg in the Champions League. Rosenborg, however, invested heav-

ily in players season by season, squandering much of its European earnings and when it failed to win the Norwegian League in 2007, the good times the club enjoyed came to an end. “Certainly Rosenborg is the model for Scandinavian teams, but we don’t want to just throw away money on players,” Carlnén said. “Rosenborg made many mistakes and we want to avoid those. We are investing much of the money we have made back into the club to become stronger in the future.”

Poised to win

Malmö finds itself in a unique position going into the 2016 season. For the first time in three years, Malmö has no European matches and can concentrate on the league and the Swedish Cup. The Cup offers the easiest route into European play, albeit in the UEFA League, which is financially less lucrative than the Champions League. Malmö’s new signings have made it the instant favorite to win the Allsvenskan and Kuhn has a squad that can compete in Europe. It features Danish international Christiansen, Norwegian internationals Wolf Ekrem and Jo Inge Berget, Swedish internationals Johan Wiland in goal, Lewicki, Anton Timmerholm and Markus Rosenberg, Peruvian international Yoshimar Yotun and Uruguayan international Felipe Carvalho. The all-star lineup got its first test February 21 when Malmö had its first Swedish Cup group stage match.

Malmö trainer Allan Juhn gives a thumbs up after Malmö FF wins on Feb. 20.

Shaky start

The Swedish FA adopted a UEFA-style format for the Swedish three years ago, with qualifiers in the fall. The 32 teams that advanced play in eight four-team groups. The group winners advance to the quarterfinals, followed by semifinals and a one-match final in May. Malmö opened Group 5 against Superettan side IK Sirius and for 45 minutes looked like anything but a championshipcaliber side. Playing before a sparse crowd in a rainy, slushy mix, Malmö played the first half as though it wished it was back in sunny Dubai, where it held its preseason training camp. Sirius went ahead after just minutes when Kingsley Sarfo rolled the ball past Wiland. Berget tied the game with a booming shot from 35 yards. Malmö was much better in the second half but still looked shaky. Berget eased any fears of a complete letdown when he headed in a corner from Yotun in the 77th minute. “Obviously I am happy with the win,” Kuhn said after the match. “Sirius played a very good game. They were better than we were in the first half and deserved their goal. We were better in the second half and they could not stand up to our pressure.” February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

feature. page 16

1-3/4 pounds minced beef and pork 2/3 cup breadcrumbs 1-1/4 cups milk 2 eggs 1 brown onion 1/2 tbsp salt 1 pinch white pepper 1/2 tsp allspice 1/2 tsp ground ginger butter for frying

Whether or not a person can claim any Swedish heritage has little bearing on their knowledge of Swedish meatballs. Everyone seems to know about them – and whether they prefer them with or without gravy. Of course those of us with Swedish heritage also know that they’re in fact best with lingonberry sauce. There are actually many variations of Swedish meatballs (kottbullar), and like all beloved traditions, most cooks have a favorite recipe, perhaps with secret ingredients, handed down for generations. A key component of any genuine Swedish meatball, however, is its size: köttbullar

Photo: David Back

Swedish Meatballs

Instruction: • Mix breadcrumbs and milk and let stand 15 minutes • Finely chop onion and brown in skillet, let cool • Mix all ingredients well • Wet a chopping board and your hands with water to make forming the meatballs easier • Brown the meatballs in a frying pan, then finish off in the oven at 350°F for approximately 10 minutes.

should be small, bite-sized. They can be made with any kind of ground meat, often mixing together beef, veal and pork, and they can be broiled or fried. The following recipe is the most basic of kottbullar recipes, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t delicious – and while it packs in the flavors of the authentically Swedish dish, it does allow for adding some creative variations. But we think you’ll be happy with this, from our God Jul cookbook: (Serves 8)

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dashboard. page 18

Stockholm, Sweden

On Feb. 23, Princess Estelle’s 4th birthday, it was announced that new stamps with her likeness will be released on March 17. The series of stamps celebrates royal anniversaries and features the three generations in the line of succession: the King with Crown Prin- The three new royal stamps, available for cess Victoria and Princess Estelle. Two other Swedish post on March 17, 2016. stamps show King Carl XVI Gustaf, who turns 70 on April 30 and Queen Silvia, who celebrates 40 years as queen on June 19, their wedding anniversary. The stamps were designed by Daniel Bjugård from photographs by Anna-Lena Ahlström. They will be available to purchase in groups of three and are for domestic post.

“Kaffe med dopp”

Göteborg, Sweden

There’s never a bad time to appreciate the wonders of the oceans, and Sweden’s west coast was doing so for a week — no matter the weather. From February 23 to 27, Gothenburg chefs are going above and beyond (even more so than usual) to impress with their cooking of seafood. In restaurants, bars, cafes, food trucks and pop-up diners known as “soup containers,” visitors can warm up with piping hot fish soup and special “Go To Sea” menus that focus on fish and shellfish. There are also plenty of activities in town, including several specifically for non-Swedish speakers. Unique culinary experiences are planned, special admission rates are offered at the Universeum Science Centre and the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, there are fly fishing games, an oyster opening championships, ocean fish filet and cooking demonstrations, and even ocean-side accommodations in an archipelago guest house with floating sauna and hot tub. http://gotoseagoteborg.com/en/pop-up-restaurants

HRH Princess Estelle turned 4 on Feb. 23, just days before becoming a big sister. Not only is her new sibling due to arrive very soon, but so is a new cousin: Her uncle and godfather, Prince Carl Philip and his wife Princess Sofia are expecting their first child in April. Here is Princess Estelle on her birthday with her parents Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel in their home at Haga Palace, Stockholm. Photo: Kate Gabor/Kungahuset

what’s next? coming up in March

Coffee and a little something on the side ... Long before the introduction of “fika,” people got together for coffee and a cookie. More than a break, it was a time to catch up, a time for a familiar yet new experience. Linnea, a new experience on every visit, is now in two locations: The bakery, café and store is at 512 56th St. Kenosha, WI 53140 and our café at Southwest Library just opened.

Traditional Swedish summer house / Classic treats for early spring.

The 12th Annual April 3, 2016 12pm - 5pm Swedish Heritage Day Program Scandinavian Cultural Center at Pacific Lutheran University Tacoma, Washington

THE PHANTOM CARRIAGE A FILM BY VICTOR SJÖSTRÖM For more information and to RSVP visit www.plu.edu/scancenter

Free event! Lunch Served

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Nordstjernan, February 29, 2016

Vikings

SwediSh Meatball buffet lecture on SwediSh filM in the Golden aGe ScreeninG of the claSSic Silent filM

Vikings is back for a 4th season — are you watching? Fans of the drama, inspired by the tales of our raiding, trading and exploring Nordic ancestors, say it just gets better each season – with its authentic lifestyles, great battle scenes and true personal struggles of relatable characters based on Viking Ragnar Lothbrok, his family and other Norse heroes. Watch it in the U.S. and Canada on Fridays on the History channel.

Photo: Bo Zaunders

Photo:DECCA/Uli Weber

dashboard. page 19

New York, NY

The largest display of Viking artifacts ever to visit North America is now showing at the Discovery Museum, Times Square). Legend has it that Vikings were armor-clad warriors, robbers and seafaring invaders, aggressive travelers who killed and frightened anyone they encountered. But that’s far from their whole story. Archaeological discoveries and Scandinavian artifacts explain another side of our Nordic ancestors: They were also peaceful traders, farmers, hunters and craftsmen. This exhibit introduces you to the Vikings’ everyday activities, religious beliefs and family life in 750-1100 AD. www.discoverytsx.com

Stockholm, Sweden

Polar Prize winner “... the mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli from Rome, Italy. With a vocal range of three octaves and a unique ability to live a role with fullness of expression, Cecilia Bartoli has developed song as an art form. Cecilia Bartoli has spellbound audiences in the world’s great opera houses, but is not content with the well-known repertoire. She has also dug deeply into the history of music and presented long-lost music from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries that is completely new to today’s audiences. Cecilia Bartoli adds new chapters to the history of music, builds bridges between centuries and deepens our understanding of Europe’s cultural heritage. Cecilia Bartoli shows us that raised voices can change the world.”

Swedish hit songwriter Max Martin. Taylor Swift specifically thanked Martin as she won Album of the Year for the album ‘1989’ at the 58th Grammy Awards on February 15.

Photo: Axel Öberg

Polar Music Prizes 2016

Herr & Fru | Mr. & Mrs.

Him: Eh ... well, I’d...

Scratch, scratch

Her: “Sure, you can go to the hockey game on Sunday.”

‘Name’s days’ of the Swedish Calendar: /Kommande två veckors namnsdagar

In New York In Stockholm In Kiruna Lund In Los Angeles

February 29: Sunrise 6.30 a.m. 6.45 a.m. 6.58 a.m. 6.58 a.m. 6.23 a.m.

Sunset 5.46 p.m. 5.14 p.m. 4.44 p.m. 5.40 p.m. 5.50 p.m.

Her: “When he picks his nose it means he’s busy.”

March 01 Albin/Elvira March 02 Ernst/Erna March 03 Gunborg/Gunvord March 04 Adrian/Adriana March 05 Tora/Tove March 06 Ebba/Ebbe March 07 Camilla March 08 Siv March 09 Torbjörn/Torleif March 10 Edla/Ada March 11 Edvin/Egon March 12 Viktoria March 13 Greger March 14 Matilda/Maud March 15 Kristoffer/Christel March 16 Herbert/Gilbert

The Polar Music Prizes 2016 have been awarded to Swedish songwriter Max Martin and Italian mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli. Max Martin, 44, born Karl Martin Sandberg, grew up making music in the suburbs of Stockholm. Since then, he has been writing and producing hit songs for the likes of Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Bon Jovi, Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson, and as recently noted at the 58th Grammys, Taylor Swift and many others. He is the third most successful songwriter in Billboard history — only the Beatles icons Paul McCartney and John Lennon have had more number one hits. So far. Italian coloratura mezzo-soprano opera singer and recitalist Cecilia Bartoli is best known for her interpretations of the music of Mozart and Rossini, as well as for her performances of lesser-known Baroque and classical music. Bartoli, one of the most popular (and one of the top-selling) opera singers today, is known for having the versatility to sing soprano and mezzo roles. The winners will be invited to accept the

award in Stockholm in August. The Polar Prize — founded in 1989 “to honor exceptional achievements that transcend music genres” — is awarded annually. For more info, see www.polarmusicprize.org

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February 29, 2016 Nordstjernan

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19/02/16 11:27

the vasa star vasastjärnan

Winter 2016 Publication of The Vasa Order of America

A special “Swedish” watermelon is carved in celebration of Harmoni Lodge’s 90th anniversary. /Page 30

god fortsättning Vasa Members! salutation “God fortsättning” appropriate. It is the most common Swedish salutation following Christmas and into the beginning of the New Year. It translates into “Good Continuation.” While I was growing up, even we kids said it to one another when we got back to school after the Christmas break. Our Christmas started early this year. Well, it always does with the preparations, wish lists, getting the Christmas tree. By our tradition, we go up to the top of the Santa Cruz Mountains and cut our own at Four Winds Christmas Tree Farm. Often a family affair, this year it was only Birgitta and I. Anyway, our Christmas started early. We normally have the family at our The Grand Master’s Message place, checking the content of the stockings “hanging by the open fire” as soon as Dear Vasa Members, As I am writing this, the New Year is only everybody has arrived and then “Julbord” a couple weeks old, making the Swedish (literally Christmas table) in the early af-

ternoon of Christmas Eve, feasting on all the traditional Christmas food including the Swedish ham. This year, due to some family holiday travel plans, we actually did it all on December 23. The early evening is then dedicated to the opening of presents. The waiting is normally such a torture for the grandkids, but this year was different as we were all surprised by finding tickets to a matinée of the Star Wars movie in our stockings. We ended up doing some traveling between Christmas and the New Year even though we had not planned any. We drove to Bakersfield, CA (250 miles from here) to attend a very special occasion: Our newest Lodge Kern River #763 was instituted on December 30, 2015 in Bakersfield. With DM Bertil Winther wielding the gavel, assisted by GLD Susan Premo and DS Isabella Muscarella, at the home of

appointed Past Chairman Jennifer Dewey, a new lodge was formed! The first in more than eight years. Congratulations Lodge Kern River #763 and congratulations to District Lodge Pacific Southwest #15 for gaining a new lodge. I have often talked about our Vasa travels. This year is no exception, although because it’s an even year, fewer Districts are holding their conventions. The year will start out with DL Pacific Southwest #15 holding their annual convention at the end of February and then our own DL Golden Gate #12 late in April. We do enjoy all the fellowship that comes with meeting old friends and making new ones. If you have an opportunity, I highly recommend that you attend a District Convention. It is not only for Delegates and Officers, but for all Vasa members. You will find that “The /continued on p25

Archive News

Local Lodge News

Practice your Swedish

Along with a message from the President a new archivist has been hired for the Vasa National Archives and she has already begun the hard work awaiting her in her new home in Bishop Hill. / p23

Grand Lodge News

Honor Roll of Donors—Members throughout Vasa land make donations in memory of loved ones and in honor of our Swedish heritage, keeping the archives and offering scholarships. / p26-27

It’s very busy in Vasa Land of Swedish America during the special time of year when we celebrate with julbord, pepparkakor and Sankta Lucia pageants... / p27-32

Not only does our Grand Master bid “God Fortsättning” and offer an update of the last few months, but he does it in “our’ two languages, English above, Swedish on / p36

archive news » p23 grand lodge news » p25 district lodge news » p26 lodge news » p27 swedish language corner » p34 in memoriam » p35 swedish news » p36

the vasa star / Winter 2016

editor’s Message

issue highlights

As I was preparing this issue and reading through all the lodges’ reports on their activities and meetings, I tested my Swedish skills by reading the Tomelilla, Sweden lodge update (page 36). When I read that Tomelilla ended their Christmas meeting with the Swedish national anthem, Du gamla du fria, I wondered whether that’s in fact common at Christmas? It actually puts me in a somber mood as it evokes such memories — I can almost see, feel and touch Amanda Olson Robison the mountains, the rivers and the vast forests that make up the old countries. It’s interesting how the anthem doesn’t mention Sweden at all but refers to the whole region “Nord” and “Norden” rather than the nation itself. When it comes to the culture we all share, we have so many things to be grateful for and celebrate — whether it’s Midsummer, a crayfish festival or Christmas and all the Lucia celebrations you’ll find a lot of in this issue — Sweden and the entire Nordic region offer us so much. Our

roots are deep and the common culture, geography, the love of nature and similar Scandinavian language traditions make it easy for us all to celebrate together. Kudos to Siv Swan-Pierson whose series on Swedish language offers us the opportunity to communicate in four countries at once (page 34). We are already a couple months into 2016, but here in snowy Wisconsin it’s easy to shift back to December and the time of Lucia within the pages of this issue. Enjoy all the photos of this beloved holiday, and don’t forget to take photos at other events you host or attend; then send the best ones along with your contributions to vasaeditor@gmail.com. After all, nearly all the content of the Vasa Star comes from you!

Deadlines for The Vasa Star

How to submit Photos to the Vasa Star

We look forward to hearing from you, amanda olson robison vasaeditor@gmail.com Moving? Be sure to send address changes to circulationvasastar@gmail.com

Occasionally photos are submitted to Vasa Star that are not usable, and you’re disappointed when your photo isn’t used. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Spring Deadline » April 15 Summer Deadline » August 15

t t t

• Picture and article, 200 words or less. • For Letters to the Editor column, 150 words or less. • Please send pictures of good quality in order for them to reproduce well in The Vasa Star • For submitted lodge articles, please add city and state. Thanks! IN MEMORIAM » Please read instructions on how to send and pay for Obituaries.

Guest of honor at Höganäs No. 634 Christmas meeting. / p36

1. Best photos are taken with a digital camera or a cell phone camera. These are perfect when downloaded to a computer and emailed directly to the Editor. Please don’t try to modify them, no tweaking, no changing to black and white. 2. Photographs can be scanned, but be sure they are good quality photographs, at least 4x6 in size. If you scan them, be sure they are saved as a .jpeg and 250-300 dpi. If you are not sure of the size, mail the original photograph. 3. Photos pasted into a Word document are difficult to work with, so whenever possible don’t use this method. Send the photos separately, as an email attachment or by regular mail. 4. Most importantly, be sure to include a caption naming each person (if it’s a small group.)

Editor’s email: vasaeditor@gmail.com

Lilli Hermosillo was Lucia 2015 for Phoenix Lodge No. 677. / p32

Swedish

Language corner

A sampling of basic phrases and words for feelings. / p34 The Swedish Newspaper in America –––––––––

is proud to be of assistance in presenting The Vasa Star, Vasastjärnan in a new format, in print and digitally. Nordstjernan has been reporting on current events in Swedish America since September, 1872. Kenneth T. Jackson, Professor of History at Columbia University and Editor-in-chief, The Encyclopedia of New York City, said it best: “Over the past century and a half, more newspapers were published in New York than in any other city in the world, in large part because of the huge foreign-born community and the variety of publications that the different ethnic groups spawned. Most had a brief and almost ephemeral life, but Nordstjernan has been remarkable for its long life and high quality. It not only helped Swedish immigrants adjust to life in a new world and a giant city, but it set a standard that other newspapers worked hard to emulate.”

www.nordstjernan.com • 1.800.827.9333 ext. 12

the vasa star Winter 2016 Vol. 108, No. 1, Serial 849 Published by The Vasa Order of America www.vasaorder.com HEADQUARTERS Grand Secretary / Joan Graham 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 526 5512 vasajlg@aol.com Grand Master / Tore Kellgren 5971 W. Walbrook Drive San Jose, CA 95129 Phone: (408) 996 1970 | (408) 505 6623 gmtore@kellgren.org Editor / Amanda Olson Robison

Managing Editor / Liza Ekstrand

Family Tree Släktutredningar

Remember the Vasa Archives

I am a member of the Vasa Order in Sweden and an expert in Swedish genealogy. Over the years I have helped many Vasa members to find their roots in Sweden. If you want my help to find your Swedish ancestors, please email me for further information: swedengen@telia.com

when you are making a memorial donation Send your donations to: Vasa National Archives PO Box 101, Bishop Hill, IL 61419

Donate to the Education & Scholarship Funds Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America, Joan Graham, Grand Secretary 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804

Send articles, photos & memorials to: The Vasa Star PO Box 13331 Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 vasaeditor@gmail.com Circulation Manager / Joan Graham 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 526 5512 circulationvasastar@gmail.com Send address changes and bottom section of application for new members to Joan Graham. Membership Chairman / Bruce Elfvin 3231 E. Overlook Road Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 bruce@ekrtlaw.com Advertising Call 1.800.827.9333, ask for Vasa Star rates vasaeditor@gmail.com

Layout & production: Nordstjernan, Swedish News, Inc.

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Winter 2016 / the vasa star

Archives News A Message from the President of Vasa National Archives Greetings Vasa Brothers and Sisters, Breaking news! Kathy Cuff has been hired as the new Archivist of the Vasa National Archives in Bishop Hill. She comes well prepared to accept the challenges ahead and will introduce herself in this issue of the Vasa Star. We are very pleased to welcome her to the position and to the community. She is excited about the future and has already begun to establish friendships in the village. With the help of Local Lodge members and others many improvements and upgrades have been made to the Archivist Residence to make the adjustment comfortable and positive for Kathy who has moved a long distance from family and friends. This year will be one of challenges for Kathy including managing snow. She’s already put the new snow blower to good use! Several members of the Archives Board and Archives associates attended the Julgran Fundraiser Reception December 4th along with other Vasa leaders, members of Bishop Hill Local Lodge, Bishop Hill Historical Association leaders and Samantha Crisp, Special Collections Librarian for Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. The weather was unseasonably pleasant which all of us who traveled appreciated! The list of members who donated to the Fundraiser are included in this issue of the Vasa Star. Thank you to all who donated to this much needed endeavor. The Christmas tree (Julgran) was beautifully decorated with bulbs in honor of your loved ones. The building itself glowed with candlelight and festive music. All who attended the reception

enjoyed visiting, celebrating the success of and Lodge Regalia, artifacts the Fundraiser and meeting Kathy who had pertinent to immigration and moved into the residence just a few days books of historical value. before. The village was bustling with activity An organization with a strong and decorated in historic Swedish Jul style. sense of its past has a bright fuBoard members who stayed the weekend were ture. I’m looking forward to a graciously invited to join members of Bishop year of success at the Archives Hill Local Lodge the next evening celebrat- and invite you to visit Bishop ing Lucia with a smörgåsbord and beautiful Hill to study and experience a pageant in the historic schoolhouse. taste of the past. Sheila and I The busy Christmas season has passed in wish you health, success and Bishop Hill and the Archives is now closed happiness in the year ahead. to the public until April 1. This will be a busy time for our new Archivist. This is when she I n T r ut h a nd U n ity , B i l l L u nd q u i st will study, sort and categorize the contents of P r e sid e nt o f t h e V a s a the Archives and develop goals for the coming N atio n a l A r c hive s year and a vision for the future. We are beginning to develop collection policies and procedures for display, storage and digitization of material. We are setting goals for educating the membership regarding what is available at the Archives and joining the other historical associations in the community, the Bishop Hill Arts Council, the Bishop Hill Heritage Association and the Bishop Hill State Historic Site and Historic Preservation Agency educating the public about Swedish culture and the history of immigration. Many of you question whether items you’re storing for your Local Lodge or District should be sent to the Archives. Please direct these questions to our Archivist, Kathy at VasaArchivist@gmail.com. We are interested in items relative to the history of the Vasa Order of America including the history of your District and Local Lodge, Vasa artifacts

A Message from Vasa Archivist Kathy Cuff Hello Vasa Members, I am adjusting well to Bishop Hill and getting to know the community. The locals keep telling me that this has been an unseasonably mild winter. Considering that Tennessee doesn’t get much snow or ice, I’m grateful to have a mild winter to learn about dealing with winter weather. The neighbors probably had a good laugh at me snow blowing when only an inch of snow was on the parking lot. So far, I have truly enjoyed the immersion into Swedish-American culture, even the lutfisk and pickled herring. Thank you all for making sure the residence was improved and ready for my arrival. This year the Vasa Archives opened the doors for Lucia Nights. We offered gingersnaps and coffee to the visitors. Sadly, no one was available to portray Lucia for us this year. We’ll try to get one for next year. We also opened the Kathy Cuff, Vasa Archivist Archive’s parking lot to visitors wanting been replenished so we’ll be ready to begin parking space close to the main road. A total processing in the near future. We have an of 73 people visited us during Lucia Nights. ever growing chore list to be completed in the Many visitors commented that we had never spring or summer. I’ve been opening random been open during Lucia and appreciated the boxes to learn what we have in our collections. opportunity to come into the archive. We’ve had a few research requests come in Over the past month, the Archives have this past week, which gives me experience undergone some general cleaning and straight- using the collection and familiarizing myself ening. Archival and office supplies have with its organization. All this will help create WWW.VASAORDER.COM

policies and procedures to better serve you in As Bill said, if you have any questions about the coming years. your lodge collections or the archives, feel free One of the things that I learned after moving to contact me at VasaArchivist@gmail.com or here is that the exhibits have not changed for at 309-927-3898. several years. For the past seven years, I’ve Best, worked at the Pres. Andrew Johnson Museum and Library and previously worked at the B. K at hy C uff , CA V asa A rch ivi s t Carroll Reece Museum. While at these museums, I learned some techniques for updating and creating exhibits. It’s important to have changing exhibits to maintain local interest in the archive and its collections. The Archive has two galleries, a large one and a small one. I want these to change every year. The small gallery will be dedicated to Vasa and the various chapters around the world. This year the small gallery will be just a general overview MAIL TO: of what Vasa is and what it does. The larger vasaeditor@gmail.com gallery this year will focus on 19th century Sweden since four of the five migration waves or occurred during that time period. Vasa Star I’m making plans to get the archives inPO Box 13331 volved in the activities here in Bishop Hill. Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 Some of the events we’ll be having are an Exhibit Opening on April 2, Valborg at the end of April, a Midsomar Respite with a tea and Kool-Aid fika, Preservation Advice days, Send your lodge news to Seed Saving during Jordbruksdagarna (Fall vasaeditor@gmail.com Agriculture Days), and many more. I post ‘Vasa Star’ • PO Box 13331 • Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 events, artifacts, pictures and other interesting items on our Facebook page, Vasa Archives, Bishop Hill.

Where to Submit Material

Lodge News

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the vasa star / Winter 2016

Archives’ Julgrans Fund - In Memory of Your Loved Ones

January 1 to December 31, 2015 — Thank you for your generosity Adler, Donald H. IMO Fritjoff and Linnea Adler Anderson, Bob IMO Carol Anderson, Donald IMO Martin & Ada Anderson Anderson, Edythe L. IMO Gina Lorraine Graziano Anderson, Evert R. IMO Patricia Margurite Anderson Anonymous Aprato, Juliette IMO Carl V. Anderson Arvidson, Emil IMO Eric and Betty Arvidson Barkley, Jennifer Johnson IMO Roy Andrew Johnson, Jr. Barnett, Hugh A. IMO Juliet Ekdahl Barnett Barrett, Verna Nordlund IMO Hoppet Lodge #361 Members Barthelson, Glenn IMO Vivan Barthelson IMO Einar Barthelson Beck, Ralph IMO Carl and Hannah Beck Belden, Norma IMO Nils O. Lundin IMO Anna & Per Persson Bennett, Alison Berggren, C. Otto IMO Anne Bergh, Marianne IMO Sigvard Bergh Bergqvist, Sten Bjorkner, Arthur C. IMO Harold (Pete) Schumacher IMO Marion Schumacher Boso, Ellen Swigart IMO Linnea Peterson Swigart Boyes, Kristin IMO John-Henry Boyes Calleja, Karin IMO Vincent Calleja Campbell, Ruth IMO Lisa Lindstrom IMO Sanna Erickson Carlson, Carl H. IMO Dawn Carlson Carlson, Gunvor B. IMO Burton W. Carlson Carlson, Rita D. IMO Ruben Carlson Carlson, Rita D. IMO Cecilia Carlson Clark, Birgitta IMO William Wendt Clarke, Vivian Cleveland, Tom & Susan IMO Bob & Charlotte Miller IMO Per & Dorothy Roden Clyatt, Ann Marie Coelho, Joseph R. IMO Edwin L. Lindquist IMO Amanda C. Johnson Cook, Sandra L. IMO Frihet #401 Departed Members

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Coulthard, George H. IMO Anders Johan & Augusta (Olson) Larson IMO Hilma Kristina (Larson) IMO Egbert & Ida Matilda (Larson) Ellis Cusson, Doris Skog IMO Sigurd K. Skog and Enette M. Skog Delfs, Linda IMO Delfs family Dill, Birgitta Dobres, Donald E. IMO Dorothy Dobres IMO Violet & Ed Dobres Doty, Lee & Fae IMO Gustav and Helga Johnson Douglass, Bob & Terri IMO Jennie Terese Hokanson Earnshaw, Joan IMO Robert Earnshaw Edmark, Harvey IMO Arvid Edmark Edwards, Eleanor IMO Nelson Edwards Ekeroth, John E. IMO Elisabeth Ekeroth Ekstrand, Liza & Rolf IMO Lillian Larson IMO Harold Larson Elfvin, Bruce IMO Donald & Gloria Elfvin IMO Ralph & Rita Langel IMO Dennis Thompson IMO Christy Bishop Emihl, Walter IMO Agda Emihl Englen, Victoria IMO Karl Erik Englen IMO Inga Englen Enright, Ingrid IMO Joseph and Ingrid Carlson Erickson, Ayleen IMO Ed K. Erickson Erickson, Carolyn Erickson, John Erickson, Lois IMO Karl and Anna-Lisa Erickson Erickson, Richard IMO Albin and Martha Erickson Erickson, Yvonne IMO Melana Allen Ernst, Marlene IMO Bertha Kolar Eskilson, Evald & Barbara IMO Ewald Otto Per Eskilson IMO Per and Augusta Eskilson Ferguson, AnnaStina IMO Clara and Gustaf Svahn Finnie, Clifford IMO Swedish grandparents born in Sweden (Nelson & Bergstrom) Folkesson, Lars Forsberg, Bjorn IMO Lee Nelson Fredrickson, David

IMO Sally Christianson Friesen, Ulrika & Quint IMO Lilian Rejbrand and Dale Allen Frost, Ruby E. Gauch, F. Karen IMO Asta & Oscar Erlandson IMO Esther & Emil Anderson Gille O’Connell, Pia IMO Margaret, Ake, Ulf Gille Gorman, Irma IMO Eleanor Anderson IMO Arlene Malkin Graham, Joan Lindquist IMO Malvina Haglund Julien IMO Virginia Julien Lindquist IMO Vincent Lindquist Grandin, Jack IMO Albert W. Grandin IMO Walter Anthonsen Gresseth, Marilyn Gruel, Marge IMO Reinhold Gruel, Jr. IMO Gruel-Anderson Guidara, June IMO Ruth Ellen Williams IMO Anna Emelia IMO Victor Williams Haffey, Mildred Harmoni Lodge #472 IMO Departed Harmoni Members Harrington, Ellen IMO Axel Juhlen Jonsson Harvey, Anne Charlotte IMO Esther Nordeen IMO Maury Bernstein Hayward, Nancy IMO Elsa Nyquist Merritt Hedlund, Nancy L. IMO Bertil H. Hedlund Heiple, Jonathan IMO Swan and Anna Anderson IMO Ebba Anderson Kerswill Herman, Larry & Ulla IMO Birgit Arvidsson IMO Folke Hallgren Hersh, Bill & Sandie IMO Alice Duff Holmes, William T. Holtermann, Kathy IMO Greta & Heidi Holtermann IMO Elin & Kim Oliviera Hopkirk, John & June IMO Ethel Norbert Williams IMO Lillian Jacobson Hopkirk Hult, Sten & Nancy IMO Gunnar Mossberg IMO Algot & Karin Lindmark IMO Sven & Eda Hult & Susann IMO Stuart Lundahl Hurtubise, Lee-Ann Anderson IMO George and Muriel Anderson IMO John and Anna Anderson

Hutchison, Greta IMO Liselott Kvist Johnson, Earl & Anna IMO Gustave/Gertrude Johnson Johnson, Harland & Jeannette Johnson, Karl & Cathy IMO Luke Arvid Johnson Johnson, Lavone I. IMO Ted Johnson Johnson, Lois M. IMO Edmund G. Johnson Johnson, Raymond K. IMO Constance M. Johnson IMO Amanda Bouressa Johnson, Ronald Johnson, Sigurd S. Jones, Grayce E. IMO Calvin Jones Jordan, Lois IMO Dear Family Kellgren, Tore & Birgitta IMO Dale Allen IMO Lilian Rejbrand, IMO Marianne Beddeson Kessel, Ann & Richard IMO Karin & Hilding Olson IMO Marjorie & William Kessel Kiesel, Gene & Dawn IMO Glenn Hayden IMO James Miller IMO Art & Charlene Kiesel IMO Charles Kiesel Klein, Jeff IMO Marie Jacobson IMO Rozetta Carpenter Klintmalm, Göran Knowlton, Peg IMO Gladys Beck Kucinski, Diane IMO Irma V. LaBelle Kudlack, Leonard IMO Ethel A. Kudlack Lambert, David R. Larson, Esther IMO George Larson IMO Lydia Lydell Larson, Suzanne IMO John E. Larson Leafdale, Keith & Delinda IMO Martin & Cecilia Leafdale Leopold, Shirley IMO Robert Leopold IMO Carl O. Lofgren Lesko, Ingrid IMO Howard Rosengren Lewis, Sally IMO The Eriksons Lidman, Elna IMO Adele & Arvid Lidman IMO Mildred & Swan Bernson Lindberg, Erik IMO Birgit Lindberg Lindberg, Mark IMO Loretta G. Lindberg Lindgren, Sven Lootens, Linda IMO Swanson & Looten families Lundbohm, Dorothy IMO Carl E. Lundbohm Lundin, Carl IMO Erik V. Lundin &

Margaret Lundin Lundquist, William & Sheila IMO Quinten & Alvina Lundquist IMO Edmund & Edna Logerquist Lyckan Lodge #507 Maguire, Dorothy C. IMO Emma Norden IMO Ellen Linnea Norden Maki, Judith IMO John Key IMO Carl & Violet Peterson McCoy, Juliann IMO Elmer & Julia Haggstrom Moore, Steve IMO Jane and Rolf Kruger Muniz, Mona IMO Karin Andersotter Hasselroth IMO Samuel E. Hasselroth Nelson, Charles IMO Heartwin and Myrtle Watt Nelson Nettz, Louise IMO Helga Mansson Netzel, Ed & Judy IMO Lorraine Hodorff Nilsson, Agneta IMO Barbro Klint Nilsson, Britt Nobel Lodge #288 IMO Nobel #288 Members Nobel Monitor Lodge #130 IMO Annabelle Larson IMO Ralph R. Carter Nordhaug, Eric & Lucille IMO Aina Nordhaug Nowlan, Juleen IMO Robert Nowlan Noyes, Bob IMO Patricia L. Noyes Nyberg, Kaj IMO John E. and Linda V. Nyberg Nyroos, Ray & Doreen IMO Margaret and Eric Engvall Oberle, Cindy IMO Betty Birch Olofsson, Kurt & Britt IMO Charles Osterlund Olsen, Judi IMO Barry Olsen Olson, Carol A. IMO Roger E. Olson Oren, Donald & Bev Orlandi, Kristina A.C. IMO Ingrid C. Carlson IMO Julia Wiklund Betcher Overberg, Dorothy IMO C. Richard Overberg Owen, Lisbeth A. IMO Miriam Kimball Pace, Eivor IMO Lina & Johan Gustafson & family Pantaleo, Vito IMO Edla & Algot Johnson IMO Elsie & Lennart Brynteson Pennsylvania District #9 IMO Robin Arvickson Perrine, Neal & Nancy

IMO Marguerite Anderson Perrine Peterson, Naomi IMO Frank Peterson Premo, Susan Rejbrand, Rolf IMO Lilian Rejbrand Renud, Hannelore IMO Douglas C. Renud Robinson, Judith H. IMO Lillian and Hjalmar Borjeson Rosengren, Diane IMO Howard Rosengren IMO Folke & Mabel Rosengren Roy, Renee IMO Andre Roy Rudberg, Jenny & Ted IMO Phoenix #677 Departed Members IMO Arizona District #21 Departed Members Runke, Larry & Kay IMO Berthol Holmgren IMO Arthur B. Holmgren Sales, Robert Sandberg, Mildred IMO Birger Johansson Saterstrom, Selma IMO Erik J. Norberg Schon, Lars IMO Carl and Marta Schon Scott, Joan & Jesse IMO Karen Palm Bader Seberger, Cheryl IMO Max Seberger Sevelius, Ralph W. Shipley, Monica IMO George Shipley Shoberg, Raymond IMO Anne Shoberg Siljan Mora Tuna Lodge #134 IMO SMT #134 Members Sipos, John and Susan Skandia Lodge #549 IMO Ruth Bergquist IMO Lloyd Pearson IMO Ivy Ogren Smith, Linda J. IMO Dale O. Smith Snyder, Janet Solomonson, Rosemarie IMO Harry Solomonson Spaberg, Gary & Gunlog IMO Hans Lundquist IMO Harvey Peterson Stake, Marjorie M. IMO Joyce Ebbersten Steinmiller, Linda IMO Norden #1 Departed Members Strandberg, Jeffrey IMO Oscar Strandberg Swanson, Elna C. IMO Ronald A. Swanson Swedberg, Ethel IMO Richard Swedberg Swedberg, Valborg IMO Einar Swedberg Swenson, Dan Sylvander, Roy & Joan

IMO Swen B. Thompson IMO Betty Lou Thompson Tornblom, Inez IMO Inez Tornblom Tornquist, John IMO Swan and Anna Tornquist Toth, Margot & Andy IMO Ove Berg Trevisano, Jacci Valentine, Stacey L. IMO John F. Valentine III Van Dine, Carol IMO Stuart H. Olson Van Horn, Ann Marie IMO Rosa Cohn & Dale Allen IMO Lilian Rejbrand IMO Marianne Beddeson, Margit Carlson Viking Lodge #730 IMO Departed Members of Viking #730 Wahlmark, John Walkup, Janet P. IMO Julia Bly and Gottfrid Polson Wallin, Chuck IMO Connie M. Wallin IMO Carl Henning IMO Sigrid Lundholm Wallin Weissenborn, Ken IMO Charlotte Weissenborn Westling, David IMO Henry O. Westling Whited, Noel O. IMO Dagmar E. Sheehy Wieselquist, Erik S., Jr. Wildman, Elaine Wilkening, Ruth IMO Greta & Vilhelm Morsing Wilson, Steve Zarli, Lily IMO Mickey Zarli

Thomas, David W. IMO James and Jeffrey Thomas Thompson, Linnea

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Winter 2016 / the vasa star

Archives Heritage Fund Honor Roll of Donors

January 1 to December 31, 2015 — Thank you for your generosity Albrechtsen, Al & Gunhild Alex, Barbara J. Anderson, Donald Anderson, Edythe L. Anderson, Ingrid S. Anderson, Jeannie Andersson, Anders Arneson, Karin Asplund, Ray Atherton, Jane Bachan, Lisa Banks, Carol Barkley, Jennifer Johnson Barthelson, Glenn Becker, Philip C. Belden, Norma Bennett, Alison Bergman, Rolf & Marty Black, Norman Borg, Daniel Brandon, Phyllis Lindquist Broden, Clark E. Buckley, Kathleen Cantela, Britt Carl Widen Lodge #743 Carlson, Anna L. Carlson, George W. Carlson, Kenneth E. Carlson, Norman Carlsson, Bo & Glenda Clark, Dorothy Ann Connelly, Marguerite Connolly, Beverly A. Cook, Hazel

Cook, Lois A. Cunnane, Elisabeth

Golden, Carol Google, Inc. Gorman, Irma Graham, Joan Lindquist Grandin, Jack Gray, Douglas & Marie Green, Dawn Guidara, June Gustafson, Bill & Karen Gustafson, Clifton

Delfs, Linda DeMent, J. Payton Dietrich, Eunice Dobbs, Janice M. Dorner, Eleanor Doty, Lee & Fae Drott Lodge #168 Duffy, Ruth Dugan, Jean E. Eklund, John Eliason, Siri Emihl, Walter Engle, Ruth B. Engstrom, Robert & Ila Erickson, Delores Erickson, Richard Erickson, Yvonne Eskilson, Evald & Barbara Espeland, Karen Feely, Carol J. Finch, Lowell Finnstrom, Maj-Britt Flippen, Patricia Folkesson, Lars Forsberg, Robert Fossen, Julian H. Francis, Kathy Froemming, Barbara Gardebring, Olov Gaviola, Roselind

Keinberger-Iverson, Alice Kellgren, Tore & Birgitta Kessel, Ann & Richard Kinder, Carol B. Klooster, Marilyn Knowlton, Margaret Koenig, Susan Kronan Lodge #433

Jensen, Donna Mae Johns, Karen L. Johnson, Donald A. Johnson, Edwin B. Johnson, Kenneth Johnson, Millie Johnson, Ralph K. Johnson, Raymond K. Johnson, Ronald Johnson, Thomas Judah, Michael & Joyce

Ladouceur, Jim & Robyn Lambert, David R. Larson, Jean Larson, John H. Larson, L.D. Larson, Robert E. Leopold, Shirley Lesko, Ingrid Lewis, Sally Lidman, Elna Lindberg, Linda Lindberg, Mark Lindbergh Lodge #494 Lindgren, Sven Linné Lodge #153 Linzmaier, Joe & Lois Ljunggren, Harriet Logan, Elisabeth Lundahl, Patricia Lundin, Carl Lundquist, William & Sheila Lundstrom, Bo Lynn, Ray & Iva

Kalwat, Katherine Kane, Karen Kantar, George & Ann

Maquire, Dorothy C. Mauritson, Ernest McElroy, Sandra

Hanson, Nellie Hayward, Nancy Hedlund, Nancy Hintz, Betty Hofmann, Kristina Holmes, Harvey Hult, Sten & Nancy Hurtubise, Lee-Ann Anderson

Morgan, John P. Muniz, Mona Murray, Marian

Pohlman, Clyde Post, Arthur H. Potter, Brittmarie Prasso, Nina

Nelson, Morris Nelson, Wilbur & Marilyn Nettz, Louise Nielson, Dolores Nilsson, Roland & Raija Nobel Lodge #184 Nobel-Monitor Lodge #130 Nordic Lodge #611 Nordin, Dale & Lilian Nowlan, Juleen Oliveira, Mary Ellen Olsen, Marianne Olson, Anna E. Olson, Lee Ann Olson, Martin Orlandi, Kristina A.C. Oscars Borg Lodge #172 Pace, Eivor Pasco, Jean Patzer, Dorothy Pearson, June M. Pennsylvania District #9 Perry, Carol Persson, Erland Peterson, Anita Peterson, Craig R. Peterson, June Peterson, Mike & Corky Peterson, Naomi Phoenix Lodge #677

Svea Lodge #253 Svea Lodge #296 Svensson, John Swanson, Gordon Swanson, Wesley Swenson, Charlotte Swenson, Geraldine

Reavis, Alyson Risedorf, Elsie Rosengren, Diane Sack, Norman Salk, Bob & Carolyn Santora, Dorothy Scheirer, Bevin Schon, Lars Schueman, Margaret Seagers, Kirk & Shelly Seest, John A. Sims, Lorraine W. Sipos, John and Susan Skogsblomman Lodge #378 Smith, Edward S. Smith, Linda J. Snowberg, Karen Soderberg-Gomez, Karen Solstad Lodge #709 Sonntag, Theodora Sten, Dr. Douglas Stenland Lodge #727 Stevenson, Elizabeth Strandberg, Jeffrey Strange, Dan and Betty Stromquist, Ralph Sundblad, Colleen Superior Lodge #423 Sutor, Doris

Tafvelin, Nils A. Taylor, Cal Taylor, Gunilla Guggenheim Thielman, Karen & Christopher Thoreen, Sonja Tilton Janet Tornquist, John Torstensen, Donald Vågen Lodge #588 Venberg, Evelyn Wahbeh, George Wahlmark, John Wallin, Chuck Weissenborn, Ken Westberg, Rose-Marie Westergren, Gordon L. Whited, Noel O. Wieselquist, Erik S., Jr. Wilkening, Ruth Wilson, Barbro Yockey, Ann

Grand lodge news The Grand Master’s Message (continued)

District” is made up of Vasa Members, just like you and me. They all do their best to make Vasa the organization we all love. We finally have some rain and we love it. Yes, you do love rain when there has been so little the last several years. We are currently in a pattern of rain more or less every other day. But of course, we need much more, as our reservoirs are still only around 30% of capacity. The Education Stamp has been a good fundraising program for many years. Thanks to all of you who donated last year. The stamp depicted the Lily of the Valley, the provincial flower of Gästrikland. By donating to this program, you support our scholarship programs. Two other fundraisers during the year are for the benefit of the Vasa National Archives. The Heritage Fund fundraiser in the spring and the Ever Living Julgran before Christmas celebrate the lives of our members and friends who WWW.VASAORDER.COM

Remember the Vasa Archives

Donate to the Education & Scholarship Funds

when you are making a memorial donation

Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America Joan Graham, Grand Secretary 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804

are no longer with us. I urge you to give generously this year to all these endeavors. You have heard me say this many times: MEMBERSHIP CONTINUES TO BE OUR NUMBER ONE CHALLENGE. Are you keeping your members? Are you attracting new members? Have you contacted any of your previous members to see if they want to visit a lodge meeting? They may even want to rejoin. An exciting lodge meeting is essential if you are going to attract new and keep your current members. Don’t be boring! The competition for your current and prospective members’ time is stiff. You have to have food at your meetings and put on programs that engage. Cultural Leaders, I challenge you to search for an exciting subject and develop a pro-

Send your donations to: Vasa National Archives PO Box 101 Bishop Hill, IL 61419

gram around it. Work with your District Cultural Leader and share ideas between lodges. The Internet is a vast source of information on Swedish and other Nordic countries culture and heritage. Work also with your lodge members. It is every member’s job to make the meetings attractive to current and future members. Put a membership drive in place for your lodge to get new members! ONE new member is all I ask from each one of you. Remember, too, that it is very important to keep your current members. It bears repeating: Don’t be boring! in truth and unity, tore kellgren, grand master

Family Tree Släktutredningar I am a member of the Vasa Order in Sweden and an expert in Swedish genealogy. Over the years I have helped many Vasa members to find their roots in Sweden. If you want my help to find your Swedish ancestors, please email me for further information: swedengen@ telia.com

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the vasa star / Winter 2016

Grand Lodge Education and Scholarship Fund

Honor Roll of Donors, January 1 to December 31, 2015 — Thank you for your generosity Ackerman, Lori Ahlberg, Judith & Kenneth Albrechtsen, Al & Gunhild Alexis, May-Britt Alexy, Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Allen, Christina Allison, Ingrid Anderson, Carl & Sylvia Anderson, Claire Anderson, Erick Anderson, Eva Anderson, Gayle Anderson, Janet Anderson, Karla Anderson, Ken & Ann Anderson, Marv Anderson, Mr. & Mrs. Donald Anderson, Westen Andersson, Anders Andersson, Anita Anke, Gordon & Rigmor Antonson, Jane & David Arnell, H. Arneson, Karin Arvidson, Carl Asplund, Ray Atherton, Jane Athey, Margareta Backstrand, Aino Badger, Laura Barkley, Jennifer Johnson Barrett, Verna Baumgart, Ronald II Beck, Ralph & Ruth Belden, Norma Benacci, Berit Berggren, Otto Bergman, Rolf & Marty Bergstrom, Albion Bergstrom, Donna Birtwistle, David Bjorkner, Art & Nancy Bjorkner, Cheryl & Kurt Bloomquist, Lorraine Blumer, Susan Bodelson, Christine Bongiorni, Christine Boyes, Kristin Boylan, Linda Brainard, Jannelle Alden Brandon, Phyllis Lindquist Brolander, Elaine Brown, Cheryl Buckley, Gerald & Kathleen Burman, Bob Butler, Ingrid Carlson, Anna Carlson, Dorothy Carlson, Ingrid Carlson, Mr. & Mrs. Eric Carlsson, Bo & Glenda Carter, Evelyn Chilcote, Karen Clark, Birgitta Clyatt, Ann Marie Connelly, Marguerite Cosmen, Ingrid Cummings, Genevieve Cunningham, Dorothy Curtis, Diane Danielson, Joyce Davis, Leena Delfs, Linda DeMent, J. Payton & Joanne DeSau, Carol Dietrich, Franklin & Eunice

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Dill, Birgitta Dorner, Eleanor Doty, Lee & Fae Doughty, Linda Droster, Ralph & June Dryden, Yvonne Ericson Duffy, Ruth Dunbar, Emily Eckman, Betty Edmark, Harvey Ekstrand, Liza & Rolf Eliveira, Mary Ellen Emery, Bruce Emihl, Walter Engstrom, Bob & Ila Erickson, Brent Erickson, Richard Erickson, Yvonne Eskilson, Evald Esperson, Denise Fassl, Rosemary Feely, Arnold & Carol Finch, Lowell Finnstrom, Maj-Britt Fisher, Bonnie Fiske, Carla & Greg Flippen, Pat Folkesson, Lars Framåt Lodge #405 Fredlund, Jane Freedlund, Carl Freitas, Barbro Froemming, Barbara Frost, Ruby Fulton, Laurie Gaviola, Roselind Gellella, Anita Golden, Carol Gorman, Irma Graham, Joan Lindquist Grandin, John Gray, Douglas Green, Dawn Gruel, Margaret Guidara, June Gun Wastholm-McCuen Haire, Siv Hannigan, Glenn & Barbara Hanson, Nellie Harrington, Ellen Harvey, Dr. Anne Charlotte Haugaard, Astrid Hayward, Nancy Hedlund, Gerd Hedlund, Nancy Hedman, Ingrid Henderson, Diane Hendrickson, E. L. Henning, Lillian Carlén Herman, Ulla Hersh, William Hinrich, Doris Hofmann, Kristina Holman, Ralph Holmes, Harvey Jr. Holtermann, Kathy Holtermann, Mimi Homer, Robert Howard, Martha Huebner, Mary Ann Hughes, Kathryn Hultquist, Everett Hurtubise, Lee-Ann Anderson

Isak, Maj-Britt Iverson, Alice Kienberger Jacobs, Maria Jansson, Kyle Jarrell, Dr & Mrs David Jegen, Janet Jensen, Lillian Jensen, Thorkild Johnson, Birgitta Maj Johnson, Charles Johnson, Donald & Joyce Johnson, Donna Johnson, Earl Johnson, Edwin Johnson, Eric Johnson, Harland & Jennette Johnson, Janice Johnson, Karin Johnson, Karl Johnson, Kim Johnson, Lavone Johnson, Linnea Johnson, Millie Johnson, Newkirk Johnson, Ralph Johnson, Raymond Johnson, Roger Johnson, Ron Johnson, Sandra Johnson, Sigurd & Tsehay Johnson, Tage Jones, Grayce Jordan, Lois Jorgensen, Thelma Kalm Estate, Bertha Evelyn Kalwat, Katherine Kamp, Karl Kane, Karen Karling, Maidie Kellgren, Tore & Birgitta Kiesel, Gene & Dawn Kilstrom, Christine Klein, Jeff Knowlton, Margaret Koenig, Susan Krastins, Liesma Kronan Lodge #179 Krummrey, Sonja Kval, Donah Laib, Carla Lambert, David Larson, Birgith Larson, Carl Larson, Larry Larson, Robert E. Jr. Larson, Suzanne Lawson, Madelyn Leafdale, Keith & Delind Leipold, Barbara Leopold, Shirley Lidman, Elna Linaweaver, Carol & Raymond Lindberg, Stanley Lindhe, Inger Linné Lodge #153 Linzmaier, Lois Lovgren, Christine Lowell, Marla Lundin, Carl Lundquist, Bill & Sheila Maguire, Dorothy Mante, Elva Margoli, Virginia Mattsson, Elsy

Mayette, Merlene Maynard, Diane McCaffery, Karin McCauley, Betty McGrath Family McKillip, Karen Mendenhall, Elisabeth Merchant, Kenneth & Gail Messmer, Mike & Julie Mihelich, Josephine Moberg, Alden Montelius, Richard Morch, Camilla Morgan, John Morgan, Kerstin Morse, Mildred Mueller, Roberta Muniz, Ramona Murray, Marian Nelson, Eunice Nelson, Janet Nelson, Jean M. Stohl Nelson, John Nelson, Robert Nelson, Robert & Helen Nettz, Roger & Louise Nielson, Dolores Nilsson, Susan Nordquist, Alma Marie Nowlan, Juleen Noyes, Robert Nylund, Shirley Ogonoski, Art & Arlene O’Grady, Britt Oldson, Irene Olsen, Magda Olsen, Sandy Olson, Lee Olson, Martin Olson, Richard Orlandi, Kristina Carlson Orlando, Richard Overberg, Dorothy Pace, Eivor Pantaleo, Vito & Louise Patzer, Dorothy Pearson, Diantha & Earle Pearson, Irma Pearson, Lennart & Eleanor Pelzman, James Persson, Roy Peterson, Anita Peterson, Craig Peterson, Mike & Corky Plano, Odd Player, Doris Post, Janice & Arthur Premo, Susan Puttner, Werner & Asta Radel, John & Kerstin Rancher-Hanke, Astrid Randolph, Eric Rasmussen, Robert Richardson, Edith Risi, Marjorie Riston, Karen Roberson, Susan Rompala, Robert & Linda Roy, Dennis Ruser Estate, Charlotte Sack, Norman Sales, Robert & Twyla Santora, Dorothy Saterstrom, Selma

Scheirer, Bevin Schmidt, Marion Schneider, Rigmor Schon, Lars Schueman, Margaret Seipp, Caroline Sevelius, Ralph & Minda Shipley, Monica Shoberg, Ray Sipos, John & Susan Skaar, Vivian Smith, Edward Smith, Linda J. Soderberg-Gomez, Karen Sonntag, Theodora Spaberg, Gunlog & Gary Spinale, Mary Ellen Steinmiller, Linda & Gary Sten, Dr Doug Stenberg, Judith Stites, Del & Ingrid Stranch, Anne Marie Strandberg, Jeffrey Sundblad, Colleen Svensson, Christa Svensson, John Swaffar, Baxter & Marlene Swanson, Carl Swanson, Inger Swanson, Louise Swanson, Russell & Nannette Swedberg, Virginia Swenson, Charlotte Swenson, Gerry Sylvan, Marta Sylvander, Roy & Joan Tafvelin, Nils Teigen, Jeanne Tennis, Ann Thompson, Mr. & Mrs. Richard Thoreen, Jo Ann Three Crown Lodge #38 Tilton, Janet Timshel, Michael Carlson Tohlen, Ann & Charlie Tornquist, John Underkoffler, Karin Vance, Ann Marie Viking Lodge #730 Wahlmark, John Wallenberg, Bob Wallin, Chuck Warden, Jane Weaver, Robert & Catharina Weissenborn, Ken Wendell, Alan & Donica Wernlund, Helen Westling, L. A. Whited, Noel Wieselquist, Erik Jr. Wilkening, Ruth Wilson, Barbro Wilson, Kristi Woodstrom, James & Dorothy Wooster, Yasuko & Richard II Yagami, Kathleen Ann Zawislak, John & Ellen

Jeanne Eriksson Widman Andersen

New York No. 4

The 63rd Biennial Convention of NY District No. 4 was held at the Marriott in Melville, Long Island, last November, hosted by Lindbergh Lodge No. 505. It was a jam-packed weekend of Swedishness, friends old and new and celebrations of our heritage, past, present and future. The convention took care of business, and the banquet took care of the celebration on a high energy level. All ages gathered, incuding our matriarch, 89-year-old Alice Schmutz, 72-year member of Vasa. With 100 adults and 20 children, Smörgåsbandet took care of the music. Barnklubben Elsa Rix No. 1 outdid themselves as the Installing Team, the opening flag ceremony and an outstanding folkdance performance. I hope the kids were happy with the overloaded fishbowl of Swedish fish on their tables! Having the children participate in the entire convention is one of the most important ways to carry on the Vasa traditions. Invite the kids, make sure they have a good time, and then the rest will happen by itself. There’s a long history with the children’s clubs in NY, and having the oldest continuous one in our district is something to be proud of. This year their organization will be 95! DM Carl Geffken presided and introduced GVS Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise, GL member John Hanright, GLCD Karen Snowberg, GLDs Kevin DeFeo of NJ, Larry Stidsen of MA and Joe O’Leary of CT. There were PGLDs, PDMs, current DMs, and Rhode Island was there too! So many came from so far – tack så mycket - “it’s better when we’re together!” There was a moving Memorial Service with music by PDM Karen Snowberg and Ron Nelson on recorders, and Smörgåsbandet played an inspiring medley of Swedish hymns. Installation of Officers was conducted by NY’s GLD Gail Olson. The Convention sessions and banquet is covered with over 400 photos and videos at www.Facebook.com/DistrictFour and www. VasaNewYork.com. The new NY District No. 4 Executive Board through 2017 is: District Master: Jeanne Eriksson Widman Andersen (Vasa Swedish-American of the Year 2005 & Sweden’s Polar Star Medal recipient) Vice District Master: Wayne Söderlund (just announced: Sweden Day’s Man of the Year 2016) Vice District Secretary & Grand Lodge Deputy: Gail Olson / continued on next page

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Winter 2016 / the vasa star

District lodge news Continued from previous page

Assistant Vice District Secretary: Alice Schmutz District Treasurer: Robert Rasmussen District Cultural Leader: Christine Hansen Member of the Executive Board: Beatrice Rasmussen Past District Master: Carl Geffken. “Ett stort tack” till Carl Geffken, who stepped down after serving for six years and who successfully hosted the 2014 Grand Lodge Convention, hosted by NY District No. 4. OBS: NY District No. 4 will be hosting a big event at Vasa Park in New Jersey this summer. It’s for all Vasa Members and

Elsa Rix Children’s Club with the new DM of District 4.

Friends, so save the date of Saturday, Aug. 6: “VASA DAY, USA!” Välkomna!

Svenska Kids Musik Club’s children singing

Golden Gate No. 12

jeanne eriksson widman andersson

On December 11, 2015, Katie Westlund, mem- downtown Daley Center during lunch. Then their ber of Nordik Folk No. 761 and former Nordikid names were put into a bowl and the winner was was crowned Lucia Queen for the City of Chi- chosen at random - Katie then reigned at the Lucia cago. She represented her lodge and Vasa, as she festivities on Sunday, Dec. 13 in the Andersonville participated with girls from all over the Chicago neighborhood on Chicago’s north side. /p33 area who were representing various Swedish organizations. They participated in a ceremony at the submitted by lynda ann smith

In Scandinavian costumes, Svenska Kids Musik Club kids, ages 3 to 15, eagerly performed in song and dance for over 150 happy attendees of the annual Norden Lodge No. 684 Lucia and Lutfisk Dinner. District No. 12’s newly sponsored

children’s club by Norden Lodge will be performing at the annual District #12 Convention on April 22 to 24 at the Wyndham Hotel in Visalia, California. submitted by carole ann sell

local lodge news Tryggve No. 88

Kudlack. Our treasury was depleted with the transference of funds to Baltic Framat and donations presented to New Jersey Vasa new milford, nj / Well, 110 years went by Home and the District Scholarship Fund. quickly. Members of Tryggve #88 instituted Most of Tryggve’s members were part of in New Jersey District #6 in October 1905, the merger, although other members transmerged into Baltic Framat #360 at a wonferred to Arlington #62, Three Crowns #731 derful party hosted by Lodge Tryggve and and Draken #735. Happily, many Tryggve its members on October 15, 2015. Some of members were in attendance. Over the 110 the evening’s events were the passing our years of our existence, we have had many Charter and Lodge Seal to District Master good times, cultural events, good food and Randall Pierson. His presence and the drink. The good times will continue, only District Officers were in attendance for the under a different banner. official visit to Baltic Framat. Service pins for 25 and 40 year membership were awarded as were Past Chairman pins to our current Chairman, Andrea Kasich and immediate Past Chairman, Leonard

submitted by long time member, helen haumacher Left to right: Greg Kasich, Linda Nordstedt, Vega Hendela, Dorothy Stake, Jan Persson, Nita Persson, Richard Halik, Art Hendela, Helen Haumacher, Art Haumacher, David Haumacher, Kevin DeFeo, Donald Stake, Evelyn Ponczek, John Tucci, Carol Dugan. Seated left to right Leonard Kudlack, Andrea Kasich, Gail Haumacher, Lauren Maxwell, Elve DeFeo.

Tegner No. 109 scotia, ny / We all had a lovely afternoon celebrating Lucia on Sunday Dec. 13, 2015 at the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Latham. We shared a scrumptious meal with food found on a traditional Swedish julbord. We danced around the Christmas tree, Tomten came for a visit and we enjoyed a beautiful Lucia procession. Thank you to everyone who in differ-

ent ways made this day memorable. Regular monthly meetings are held on Sundays at 1 p.m. at the Scotia Elks Club. The Lodge will be celebrating its anniversary on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016 with a dinner and an installation of new members. submitted by anna karlsson

Pictured here are Zoe Andersen, Nikita Weiss, Gianna Faltskog, Lucia Helen Wajda and her siblings Caroline, Peter, Nancy, and Erica, Tomtenisse Jason LaBrake, Pepparkaks gummor Hailey and Ella Yuhasz, Sisters Eowyn and Brynya Boggs, Also seen on the picture is Grace Ross and Inger Capalbo.

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local lodge news

the vasa star / Winter 2016

Fylgia No. 119

Jean Nelson with the anniversary cake.

Tegner No. 149

oakland, ca / The lodge held its jul smorgasbord and Lucia program Dec. 12. We were pleased to have GM Tore Kellgren and his wife PDM Birgitta in attendance. Long time member Nancy Root of Citrus Heights and members of her family made the long drive to be with us again. Three new members were initiated: Susan Simms, her daughter Olivia Simms, and T. C. Brevitz. Chairman Weissenborn gave Carol Madigan her 50th year membership pin. Music was provided by T. C. Brevitz and the Tegner Singers. Ken Weissenborn read a touching story about a grandmother making spritz cookies for her grandchildren

san francisco, ca / Members gathered in October to celebrate their 108th anniversary with a potluck at a local yacht club as Bob and Chris Olson’s guests. We honored historian Jean Nelson. In November we discussed Echo’s from the Dead by Johan Theorin and enjoyed photos by Scott and Roxanne Schulkin who recently visited Öland bringing more poignancy to the mystery. In December we gathered at Dwayne Erickson’s home in Pacifica to make potatiskorv. Everyone brought their favorite korv recipe, meat and spices. Dwayne provided potatoes, onions, and the equipment to make the sausages. At the end of the exercise, we each contributed a link for everyone to share others’ efforts. Dwayne cooked a magnificent

dinner to accompany the korv and we all shared korv secrets, told stories, and over consumed the wonderful treats available. We came together for Julbord at Plaj restaurant again this year. 2016 brings new possibilities of fellowship with Kathryn Hughes of Tegner Lodge making a presentation on the 1915 Pan Pacific Exposition and its impact on the East Bay Swedes. In March, we are making Påskris (colored feathers attached on branches) and Deakon Åsa Sjöberg from the Church of Sweden and a group will sing Easter hymns in Swedish and English. More to come in 2016.

Above: Korv making at Dwayne Erickson. Right: View from the Yacht Club at the 108th anniversary.

submitted by dianne dahlberg

and Carol Madigan told the Lucia story. The lights were dimmed and the Lucia procession entered. Lucia was Annika Zamora. Attendants: Olivia Simms, Ella Nichelini, Joacim Zamora, and Jane Loewinsohn. Annika is the 13yearold daughter of Carina and Raul Zamora and granddaughter of the Kellgrens. She is an eighth grader and enjoys music and swimming. After the program, Lucia buns made by Laura Nordendahl were passed out, then a spirited raffle was held, followed by a longdance and ring dances performed by young and old! submitted by ann tennis photo: carina zamora From left: Jane Loewinsohn, Ella Nichelini, Annika Zamora, Olivia Simms and Joacim Zamora.

Drott No. 168 potomac, md / Fall 2015 was busy as usual for Drott Lodge. A genealogy program in October was followed by hard work by many as we mounted the 35th Annual Swedish Bazaar in November and participated in several other bazaars in December. The Lucia och Julfest was held on Sankta Lucia Day itself, December 13. Lovely Ellie McCabe led a procession of attendants, star boys and tomte in the beautiful sanctuary shortly after the Drott Adult Chorus introduced the Lucia tradition. The program included songs, readings, tomte searching for a lost farm animal, plac-

ing straw ornaments on the Christmas tree, and passing the light of Bethlehem while the Adult Chorus sang “Nu Tändas Tusen Juleljus.” Lucia sang an a capella solo of “O, Helga Natt” in Swedish and English, having been taught the Swedish words by her grandmother. Children and adults danced around the Christmas tree and enjoyed a generous smörgåsbord and a visit from Jultomten. Ellie, a 15-year-old from Arlington, VA loves singing and dancing and recently participated in two theater productions at her school. submitted by carol whitley

Lucia Ellie McCabe leads the procession.

Lucia 2015 Megan Sweet with maidens and starboys.

Astor No. 215

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Finnish singer, Leila Collier performing! Families included Lodge members who had great grandchildren marching as Star boys! Great grandmother is Betty Cunastoria, or / Our lodge celebrated the 2015 Lucia with family and friends. The ningham, long time member and award music was Scandinavian with a Swede, winner of recruiting the most new Vasa Sven Sundstrom and a Dane, Jurgen members for our lodge. We all had a Madsen playing accordion and a lovely wonderful celebration remembering the

Lucia tradition. This year’s Lucia, Megan Sweet will also be the Lodge Senior Princess for the Summer Scandinavian Festival held in Astoria, Oregon in June. We at Astor Lodge wish you all “A very Happy New Year!” submitted by terry arnall

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local lodge news

Winterl 2016 / the vasa star

Brahe No. 245 rockford, il / Ten members of our lodge met on the sunny afternoon of Nov. 15, 2015, in our winter meeting location in the Cherry Valley Public Library. Chairman Gary Johnson conducted our meeting and Tess Anderson read the minutes of the previous meeting. Financial Secretary/Treasurer Charlotte Tollin reviewed the financial info and refreshments were provided by Tess Anderson and Charlotte Tollin. A Christmas

potluck was scheduled for Dec. 13, 2015 on a warm Lucia Day at the Cherry Valley Public Library. There were 14 members present who enjoyed a delicious smörgåsbord provided by the members! The next meeting was January 17, 2016 in our winter meeting location of the Cherry Valley Library. submitted by dennis g. eksten

Brahe’s faithful member and chaplain, Donald Erickson. Members at the December potluck.

Nancy Anderson & Jay Hook discuss Icelandic Horses

Antique spinning wheel donated by Helen Burnett

Svea No. 348

Ulf Jonas Björk presents the program “Swedish Television from the 1950s to today”

ABBA: Björn Ulvaeus, Agnetha Fältskog, Benny Andersson & Anni–Frid Lyngstad

Svea No. 253

Jultomten and traditional dancing. Many thanks to those who set up, caterers Andris and Jean Indrikson, the Andersons, musicians and children in the Lucia procession, raffle tickets sellers, Annette Johansson, Doug Krantz, John Seest and Ulla Williams. In January Ulf Jonas Björk presented “Television in Sweden” from 1950s to the present day. He has been a journalism professor at IUPUI for the past 27 years; he provided a unique, thorough description of Swedish television history. Many thanks to our presenters Nancy Anderson and Professor Björk! Many thanks to all hostesses, officers, and all who participated in October-January!

indianapolis, in / In October, Douglas Krantz presented “ABBA: Thank You For The Music”about Sweden’s famous group. We heard music, watched videos and learned where they came from, what made them famous, why they disbanded, and what they are doing now. In November Nancy Anderson shared her love for Icelandic horses. She rode these unique creatures in Iceland and now owns six Icelandic horses on her farm in central Indiana. In December we celebrated Lucia Fest. Lodge members were greeted by trombones playing carols and glogg and traditional decorations. The Lucia procession was led by Sarah Björk Griffith while the Svea Singers sang carols. The celebration ended with a visit from

members, parents and guests attended. After the program, Santa arrived with gifts san jose, ca / Svea members created a for the delighted children. Everyone enjoyed warm, welcoming, set of events and meet- Christmas cookies and dancing around the ings to finish the year. A tasty array of Christmas tree. Pat Nelson organized the homemade soups greeted members at our Svea Christmas Dinner with volunteers wellattended November meeting. The fel- providing over a dozen incomparable lowship was informal and enjoyable on the traditional Swedish dishes. The Lynbrook cold wet evening. We began our Christmas High School Jazz Choir, presented a musicelebrations by cohosting a Lucia Pageant cal program with a mix of jazz renditions with the Svenska Skolan i Silicon Valley at and traditional numbers including old carols Nordahl Hall, Los Gatos California. Zaida few remembered. After dinner lodge and Benetti and Kikki Nordin organized the choir members enthusiastically joined in the event. The Zaida Singers, conducted by funfilled Swedish Christmas Dances led by Zaida, performed an outstanding program of Jan Nordin accompanied by Kikki Nordin Swedish music. The pageant, led by Erika on the violin. Svea 348 thanks its dedicated Ackley, daughter of Svea Member Birgitta members for its 99 wonderful years. Ackley, comprised 60 children and teens. A soldout audience of approximately 300 submitted by emma hanlon WWW.VASAORDER.COM

submitted by jay hook

December’s Lucia Sarah Björk–Griffith

Skogsblomman No. 378

upper preston, wa / Our lodge celebrated the holiday season on December 6th with a beautiful Julbord and Lucia Fest. Representing a traditional, country Christmas Eve Julbord, we celebrated Christmas, our heritage, and the work and fellowship of our Skogsblomman members. The large, linen covered tables and hall, were graced with fresh tulips and evergreens, and the serving table was laden with delicious, Swedish delicacies, many made by the members. We were entertained by the Vasa Youth Group and Risa Dala Children’s dance group as they presented a lovely Lucia procession and then performed a skit, The Mouse Before Christmas. Our Lucia was Olivia Larsson, who is nine years old and in fourth grade at

Briarwood Elementary. She is in her third year of gymnastics, also takes jazz dance lessons, and is a Girl Scout. Olivia enjoys winter skiing and swimming in the summer, when she also attends the Vasa Youth Day Camp. Skogsblomman members reveled in the Christmas celebration and look with excitement to the coming year ahead! submitted by emma wilmot

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local lodge news

the vasa star / Winter 2016

Frihet No. 401

Framåt No. 405

seattle, wa / The 2015 Anniversary dinner

el cerrito, ca / On December 11th, Framåt members gathered to celebrate that favorite holiday Sankta Lucia Day and traditional smörgåsbord. Musicians Northern California Spelmanslag led the group in a long dance around the dining room to the buffet table and entertained throughout the evening. Dinner tables were beautifully decorated by Becky Graham. Each member contributed favorite Swedish dishes for the potluck smörgåsbord. Marilyn Jackson and Cultural Leader Mimi Holtermann presented the Sankta Lucia program, with Lily Rosen as Lucia and her sister Audrey Rosen as her attendant. Lily and Audrey are the granddaughters of Framåt members John and June Hopkirk. Marilyn shared Victor Rydberg’s poem “The Tomte” and lead singing of several popular Christmas songs. Joanie Graham read the Lucia story. Many hands made this a beautiful Swedish Christmas evening.

was held in October at Ivar’s Salmon House in Seattle. A wonderful buffet/brunch with endless seafood ala Northwest Indian style was enjoyed by the members. Our District Master Jim McGinley honored us with his presence. submitted by alana brandstrom Top image -Jim and Carol McGinley, Lynn and Lyn Franzon Bottom image - Front row: Karen Riston Karla Anderson, Steve Hanson and back row: Eric and Brenda Bard

submitted by joanie graham

Lucia 2014: Annika Bjork - Griffith.

Lily Rosen and Audrey Rosen

Kronan No. 433 st paul, mn / Greetings! This photo was taken at our annual Christmas gathering. Fifteen members and friends gathered at Keller Grille at the Keller Golf Course, St. Paul, MN, for brunch on Sunday, December 13th, 2015.

submitted by kendra nielsen past chairman and current DM, MN District No. 7 Kronan No. 433 Christmas dinner and, left, the much admired Christmas cake.

Harmoni No. 472 portland, or / A late summer gettogether

took place at the summer home of Andy and Margot Toth, Pine Hollow. Relaxing with Mt. Hood in view, story sharing and good food (Swedish pancakes) fresh off the grill priceless. Marian Thompson carved Swedish designs in a watermelon, and we celebrated Harmoni’s 90th anniversary in November with an event entitled “The Hearts and Hands of Harmoni.” Longtimers Alice and Vic Harris and Carl and Marian Thompson put it together. Members wearing Swedish folk dresses added festive colors as we enjoyed snacks, libations and conversation. We had a silent auction, and many acquired great treasures while helping our treasury. We sang the American and Swedish national anthems, and special guests were introduced: GM Tore Kellgren and his wife Birgitta and District 13 DM Jim McGinley and his wife Carol. Membership pins were awarded and we saluted members attaining GL Scholarships, Scandinavian of the Year, Niskanen award page 30

winners, and past chairmen. In December Harmoni hosted the Vasa Rosebuds the children danced and had a Lucia pageant, under the tutelage of Christine Smith. It was amazing to gather so many, young and old, together for a photo. Our heritage continues to play an important part in all our lives.

90th Anniversary Former Chairmen. Left to Right: Judy Rust, Joyce Nielsen, Andy Toth, Elisabeth Mendenhall, Otto Bergren and present chairman Charlie Tohlen.

Anniversary party Ladies in Costume Left to Right: Margot Toth, Anna Lundin, Ulla Hanson, Joyce Nielsen,, Elisabeth Mendenhall, Ellen Jacobson, Barbro Curtis, Elisabeth Wallberg.

submitted by judy rust & alice harris Photo: Glenn Ekberg

Children’s group and former Rosebuds WWW.VASAORDER.COM

local lodge news

Winterl 2016 / the vasa star

Linde No. 492 milwaukee, WI / Linde had a busy winter with a program about the MoominTrollen in November. Cultural leaders Cris and Susanna Rosario put on the event in their home, and we also initiated new member Mary Hahn that day. In December we had a traditional Christmas luncheon at a local restaurant. We drew a name for the drawing of a free lodge membership for 2017 from all the members that paid their dues early — Jan Kamholtz was the lucky winner. We celebrated Lucia on the 13th together with

the Swedish American Historical Society that hosted the event. Many old Skansen kids and also new talent did an excellent job. It was especially fun to see all the little Skansen kids, now grown up as young teenagers or college students. As a matter of fact, it was so much fun that we are planning a Skansen reunion for the 2016 Lucia event. Our own Amanda Robison’s daughter Ellen hopes to be Lucia next time. Some of us also went to the JulOtta service on Christmas day at 7 a.m. (also sponsored by SAHSWI). In January we are busy with installations of officers, directories and financial reports. submitted by liza ekstrand

Grown up Skansen kids Lola Engseth, Ellen Robison, leader Sonia Hummel, and Anna Lorbach. Mary Hahn with Liza Ekstrand and Brent Erickson

Lucia 2015 Lola Engseth and court

Lindbergh No. 494 los altos, ca / Our annual Soup Supper featured Anna’s salmon chowder along with Birgitta’s lentil and bratwurst soup as well as bread, cheese and pumpkin pie. The highlight of the evening was the initiation of three members. Dr. Richard Brånemark and AnnaTove Brånemark, guests of Margit, presented a program on leading accomplishments of Swedish medical researchers in the field of titanium bone implants. Greeting us for Lucia Fest was Björn’s famous glögg. There was a full house of members and guests who revelled in the beautiful hall and amazing julbord. The Lucia procession, coordinated by Margit, was accompanied by Bengt and Jessica on guitar and violin. Following the generous raffle was traditional dancing around the julgran accompanied by Hans on accordion. The January meeting began with social-

Linnea Larsson, Lucia at Lindbergh Lodge No. 494.

izing, and everyone enjoyed the abundant, Lodge was held at Svea Lodge and folvaried choices of the potluck dinner. Or- lowed by a delicious meal. ganized by Margit, the program featured submitted by betsy nilson Selma Lagerlöf, the first woman to win the photo: tore kellgren Nobel Prize for Literature. On January 15, a joint installation of officers with Svea

Linnea No. 504

Linnea Lodge’s 88th Anniversary Luncheon - Honored Guests: (L to R) Saga Thovtrup, Oscar Carlson, Linnea Koagedal, Thelma Jorgensen, Lorentz Koagedal, Carl and Sylvia Anderson, Harriet Molin (front), Don Christensen, Ruth Duffy, Astrid Haugaard, Rick Wahlberg, Ann Christensen,Mary Wahlberg.

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petaluma, ca / The Lodge’s 88th Anniversary was celebrated with a luncheon on November 8, at La Gare French Restaurant, Santa Rosa. It was hosted by Tom and Irene Clark with 34 attending, including District Master Peterson and several others from Golden Gate District No. 12 and two members of The Scandinavians. Tom Clark was the MC with Oscar Carlson heading up the singing and cultural part of the program. The tables were decorated with fall garland with miniature Scandinavian flags. Tom and Irene created two displays of photos of Lodge members and activities, including displaying memorabilia. This particular anniversary was also to celebrate and honor our members for helping keep Linnea Lodge strong! Those in

Golden Gate No. 12 District Master Mike Peterson awarding Don Christensen above and Thelma Jorgensen, right with their Honorary Life Membership.

attendance who were Lodge members for 25 years or more were guests of the Lodge and were acknowledged by the MC reading a summary of each member’s contributions. Don Christensen and Thelma Jorgensen received their Honorary Life Membership. DM Mike Peterson did the honors of presenting them with their certificates. Both Don and Thelma have held the position of Lodge Chairman and are active members. We thank them for their many contributions and dedicated service to the Lodge. Congratulations to Don Christensen and Thelma Jorgensen on receiving their Honorary Life Membership in Linnea Lodge No. 504. submitted by mary wahlberg

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the vasa star / Winter 2016

Phoenix No. 677

phoenix, az / Our special meeting of the year, the Annual Lucia Pageant, took place on December 12, 2015. Forty-five members and fifty-three guests enjoyed a wonderful traditional meal before the pageant. We are proud to present this year’s Lucia, Lilli Hermosillo. She is 16 years old and a Sophomore at Shadow Mountain High School where she has been a Varsity Cheerleader the past two years. She is an accomplished dancer with solo parts in the Nutcracker and has won awards in contemporary dancing, besides being a very talented artist. Lilli has been a participant in the Lucia pageant since she was four years old. Her ancestors were early settlers in Montana after immigrating from Blekinge and Skellefteå, Sweden. Her deceased great-grandmother and great-aunt have been longtime members of Phoenix Lodge 677. The Lucia entourage included six attendants, three star boys and four tomtar, making for a colorful and moving pageant. At the conclusion of the pageant, Lucia and her attendants served pepparkakor to the assembled guests. Dancing around the Lucia Lilli Herrmosillo Christmas tree was another highlight and informative VASA meetings for the rest of a visit by Jultomten was most welcomed. our lodge year. It was a lovely afternoon enjoyed by all! Thank you, Lilli, for being a gracious Lucia! submitted by romy solomonson We wish everyone a happy new year and

Santa with Emily and Chelsea Breen

Carol Curry and her Dala Horse collection Left: Lucia 2015 Emily Breen

Bishop Hill No. 683 bishop hill, il / The November meeting was held in the Archives building. Randy Anderson filled in as Chairman and Carol Curry provided an interesting program on Dala horses. We planned the Christmas Smörgåsbord which was held on December 5 at the Colony School with good attendance. The

Norden No. 684

fresno, ca / held their Lucia and Lutfisk Dinner on 12/12. Members, family, and friends were treated with singing, dancing, and a violin solo by Yuliya Hess, accompanied by Christina Lumeya on the piano. Many wore their Scandinavian costumes which added to this festive event. The “Svenska Kids Musik Club” was led by Christin Holt. They performed four Scandinavian dances including the snake dance. The singing in Swedish and English was very enjoyable. Jane Reshetkin 17, a senior at Kingsburg High was our beautiful Lucia. She’s been an attendant in Norden’s Lucia Pageant for seven years, and also in the Lucia procession in the Kingsburg Christmas Parade. After graduation Jane will continue her education at Reedley Junior College and

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meal consisted of many Swedish favorites, including meatballs, potato sausage, lutfisk, herring, red cabbage and many side dishes and desserts. Santa came for a visit and handed out candy and oranges to all the good children. Our Lucia was Emily Breen 10, of Chicago. She loves to read, sew, travel and bike ride. Her little sister Chelsea, 6, helped with the procession. Our annual Christmas raffle ended the night as everyone enjoyed trying to win the prizes. What a fun night. Submitted by Jeff Anderson

Lucia Jane Reshetkin; Smörgåsbord

then transfer to Sacramento City College to become a dental hygienist. Jane has played the violin in the Fresno Philharmonic’s Youth Symphony for the past seven years truly an accomplished young lady. Everyone enjoyed the smorgasbord of lutfisk, potato sausage, Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes, red cabbage, cucumber salad, lingonberry, limpa, hard tack, and desserts. This feast was prepared by Charla Castro, who is a cook for Fresno Unified School District. The evening ended with a raffle, children dancing around the Christmas tree, and Santa giving out bags of candy to over two dozen children. A great time was had by all. submitted by clyda dehn

Lucia 2015 - Emelie Cooper and court. Emelie’s mother Marie Janson is next to (right of) Emelie.

Aurora Borealis Folk Musicians played mandolin and harp during the Lucia oro valley, az / Our member Emelie procession. They also played charming Cooper, was a very refined and elegant accordion songs during the banquet as Lucia. She is the daughter of Marie Jansen. we danced around the Christmas tree. Emelie plans to attend college in Gothenburg, Sweden and study wildlife biology. submitted by gayle anderson She is a talented singer, and sang an exquisite song in Swedish. The magnificent

Tuscon No. 691

WWW.VASAORDER.COM

Winter 2016 / the vasa star

Vinland No. 703

cape cod , ma / Our Lodge Luciafest brought many friends and family members together as we celebrated our holiday traditions. We welcomed Varner Kullenberg, Lena Anderson’s brother, who recently returned after years residing in Sweden. Our regal St. Lucia was Amy Peterson, daughter of Russell and Elena Peterson and granddaughter of Russell and Svea Peterson (both are Past Chairman). Her attendants were Nicole and Victoria Peterson and Kyra Brimdyr. Amy is a grade 7 student at Monomoy Regional Middle School. She sang a beautiful lyrical piece and her sisters Nicole and Victoria presented musical selections on violin. Clara Buttrick related facts about her memories of the Norwegian Jul Nisse and also the Swedish Jultomten. Singing and dancing around the Christmas tree, enjoying holiday desserts and our bountiful holiday raffle gifts completed our afternoon festivities. Svea Peterson and her Luciafest committee enjoyed organizing this event. In November, our District Deputy Larry Stidsen, presented an informative account of Norton Company, its history, traditions and values, and its importance to the Swedish community of Worcester, MA. The sharing of our cultural heritage and memories bonds our Lodge family together.

Amy Peterson, Lucia 2015

submitted by dorothy ann-ellner kean

Jeopardy. A group went on a Saturday field

Sierra Kronan No. 737 trip to a vintage quilt exhibit, especially to

see several quilts made by Mathilda MagnuRhodes continued to provide excellent cul- son, an emigrant from Sweden and mother tural programs. She arranged for Sven-Ove of member Wanda Magnuson Nesewich. We Westberg, District 12 archivist and chairman gathered in December to celebrate Yuletide Katie Westerlund (right) immediately after receiving the crown, together with Jennifer Pearson who of Sveaborg Lodge #449, to present Swed- with good food, pepparkakor and mulled represented Nordikids. ish Emigration. In October Deidre Dahlberg, punch. While Swedish music played in the town Daley Center during the lunch hour. cultural leader from Monitor Lodge #218 in background, we enjoyed Christmas trivia, Their names were put into a bowl and the music and many decorated huge gingerSacramento, lead us in “Vasa Jeopardy,” a chicago , il / Breaking news and conwinner was chosen at random -- Katie then bread cookies. game which she created for fun and educagratulations to Katie Westlund, member reigned at the Lucia festivities on Sunday, tion. We were divided into two competing submitted by carol nesewich of Nordik Folk and former Nordikid who Dec. 13 in the Andersonville neighborhood teams: Odin and Uff da. What fun! We hope was crowned Lucia Queen for the City of on Chicago’s north side, first at the Swedish to invite her back for a game of Double Chicago on Dec. 11, 2015. She represented American Museum, and then at a candlelit her lodge and Vasa, as she participated with ceremony at Ebenezer Lutheran Church girls from all over the Chicago area who that night. must be continued and shared with their were representing various Swedish organi- submitted by lynda ann smith children. So, together with relatives and zations. They had a ceremony at the downbakersfield, ca / We ended 2015 with a very happy occasion: the institution of a friends they were honored to have Grand new Lodge in District 15, Kern River Lodge Master Tore Kellgren with his wife Birgitta No. 763 in Bakersfield. Jennifer Dewey and and four District officers, including District GM Tore who informed us of activities and in 2016 where we will have fun, learn and Keri Mikkelsen, both teachers, decided the Master Bertil Winther, as guests. The cer- goals of the Vasa Order. All new members celebrate our heritage together. Swedish traditions and customs they grew emony was conducted by DM Bertil and our were pleased to sign the Charter for Lodge submitted by laila jensen up with and had celebrated for many years new Lodge was declared duly instituted by No. 763. We look forward to our meetings roseville , ca / During the fall, Loie

Nordikfolk No. 761

Nordik Folk No. 761

Kern River No. 763

Vasa questions? Most questions can be answered by your district or regional officers. You’re also welcome to send your questions about anything Vasa-related to vasajlg@aol.com and then watch for the FAQ Column in The Vasa Star. Initiation of lodge Kern River No 763 - Isabella Muscarella (DS), Bertil Winther (DM), Susan Premo (GLD), Keri Mikkelsen, Tore Kellgren (GM), Laila Jensen, Jessica Santana, Kayla Santana, Jennifer Dewey, Rebecca Mikkelsen WWW.VASAORDER.COM

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the vasa star / Winter 2016

Svenska Språkhörnan – The Swedish Language Corner A Sampling of Basic Phrases and Words for Feelings

You may know some or all of these basic phrases, but here they are in one place for use at lodge meetings or your Swedish conversation class. It is always a good idea to take 15 minutes before each lodge meeting to practice Swedish. The “feeling” words may not be so well known by everybody and are great for putting into sentences. Example: Q: Hur mår du idag? A: Jag är sorgsen/ledsen. Q: Varför det? A: Vår hund är mycket sjuk (Our dog is very sick). If you have an internet connection you can go to the websites mentioned below and find many more phrases and word categories. It is said that if you know 1000 words of a language, you can speak it. So, here are some of them to get you started. Lycka till! siv swan-pierson gl language director, vasasvenska@verizon.net

FEELINGS – KÄNSLOR

(http://www.goethe-verlag.com/book2/_VOCAB/EN/ENSV/ENSV.HTM) Noun

Verb

Presens (jag, du, etc.)

kärlek (love, affection) ilska (anger) tristess (boredom) förtroende (confidence) kreativitet (creativity) nyfikenhet (curiosity) förlust (loss) depression (depression) förtvivlan (despair) besvikelse (disappointment) misstro (distrust) tvivel (doubt) dröm (dream) utmattning (fatigue) rädsla (fear) bråk (fight) vänskap (friendship) roligt (fun) sorg (grief) lycka (happiness) hopp (hope) intresse (interest) glädje (joy) kyss (kiss) ensamhet (loneliness) melankoli (melancholy) optimism (optimism)

att älska

älskar

vara arg

är arg

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vara uttråkad

är utrråkad, har tråkigt

ha förtroende

har förtroende

vara kreativ

är kreativ

vara nyfiken

är nyfiken

BASIC PHRASES (http://www.101languages.net/swedish/basics.html) Hello. Goddag. (Goodaag)

Goodbye Adjö. (Ad-juuh)

Hi. Hej. (Hay)

Goodbye (informal) Hej då. (Hay dou)

How are you? Hur mår du? (Huur moor duu?)

I can’t speak Swedish [well]. Jag kan inte tala svenska [så bra]. (Yaag kan eenta taahla ‘Svenskaa’ [sooh brah].)

Fine, thank you. Tack, jag mår bra. (Tak, yag moor brah) What is your name? Vad heter du? (Vhaad heter duu?) My name is ______ . Jag heter ______ . (Yag heter _____ .) Nice to meet you. Trevligt att träffas. (Trev-leegt at tre-faas)

Do you speak English? Talar du engelska. (Taahlar duu engelska) Is there someone here who speaks English? Finns det någon här som talar engelska. (Fins dat noogon har som talar engelska) Help! Hjälp! (Yelp) Look out! Se upp! (Sey up)

Please. Snälla. (Snel-la)

Good morning. God morgon. (Good moorgon)

Thank you. Tack. (Tuck)

God eftermiddag. (Good aftermeedag) att förlora

förlorar

vara deprimerad

är deprimerad

vara förtvivlad

är förtvivlad

vara besviken

är besviken

vara misstrogen

misstror

att tvivla

tvivlar

att drömma

drömmer

vara utmattad

är utmattad

vara rädd

är rädd

att bråka

bråkar

vara vänner

är vän (med ...)

ha roligt

har roligt

vara sorgsen, ledsen, vara lycklig

är sorgsen, ledsen är lycklig

att hoppas

hoppas

vara intresserad

är intresserad

vara glad

är glad

att kyssas

kysser

vara ensam

är ensam

vara melankolisk

är melankolisk

vara optimistisk

är optimistisk

You’re welcome. Var så god. (Var sho good)

Good evening, Good night. God kväll. (Good qwell)

Yes. Ja. (Yah)

Good night (to sleep) God natt. (Good nut)

No. Nej. (Nay)

I don’t understand. Jag förstår inte. (Yag fur stoor eente)

Excuse me. (getting attention) Ursäkta. (Uuhr-sak-ta) Excuse me. (begging pardon) Förlåt. (Fur loot)

Where is the toilet (restroom)? Var är toaletten? (Waar ahr toa letten)

I’m sorry. Jag är ledsen. (Yaag aar ledsen)

Noun

Verb

Presens (jag, du, etc.)

panik (panic) förvirring (confusion) raseri (rage) förhållande (relationship) begäran (request) skrik (scream) trygghet (security) chock (shock) leende (smile) ömhet (tenderness) tanke (thought)

få panik

får panik

vara förvirrad

är förvirrad

vara rasande

är rasande

vara i ett förhållande

är i ett förhållande

att begära

begär

att skrika

skriker

vara trygg

är trygg

vara chockad

är chockad

att le

ler

vara ömsint

är ömsint

att tänka

tänker

WWW.VASAORDER.COM

Winter 2016 / the vasa star

in memoriam Memorial Notices should be mailed with check or money order to The Vasa Star, PO Box 13331, Milwaukee, WI 53213-0331. Email: vasaeditor@gmail.com. The fee is $8 for one column inch. Longer obituaries will be charged a flat fee of $25.00. All notices must be typed and in a format similar to what you see here. No newspaper clippings. If you submitted an Obituary and it is not listed here, please resubmit to be included in the following issue..

Korsnas, Finland. He joined Astor Lodge 215 in 1963. He was Scandinavian of the Year and often hosted the Lodge summer picnic.

CALIFORNIA

ROLAND (RILEY) BOSTROM, born in Jamestown, NY on July 7, 1923 and died on Nov. 25, 2015. A WWII veteran and electrical engineer, Riley was an activist championing many causes. An avid reader and outdoorsman, and ever the optimist, Riley left a devoted circle of loved ones. He was a Drott 168 member since 2010.

GOLDEN HENNING, Granite Bay, born in Värmland, Sweden on Jan. 1, 1920 and died on Sept. 16, 2015. Charter member of Sierra Kronan 737 and Past Chairman. She found success as a businesswoman, print model, actress, author. Her greatest happiness was the big family God blessed her with. Golden will be dearly missed. SCOTT MATTHEWS, 68, of Granite Bay, died Sept. 15, 2015. He worked over 30 years at the CA Energy Commission. Member of Sierra Kronan 737 for 26 years, Scott served as District Master of Golden Gate 12 from 2010-2011. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn, four daughters, and their families.

DANIEL KENNELL, 30, died Dec. 15, 2015. Born and raised in Astoria, Daniel joined Astor 215 in 2000, carrying the Swedish flag for the festival. He loved music, was an accomplished pianist and danced with the Viking dancers. Parents are Nancy and Van Kennell, grandparents Bill and Betty Cunningham. WASHINGTON D.C.

VIVIAN BUCH, an immigrant from southern Sweden in the 1940s, died Aug. 13, 2015. Born Jan. 2, 1926 and a Drott 168 member since 1987, she was an excellent baker with cardamom buns as a specialty. She was predeceased by her husband, survived by her son, daughter, grandchildren, and two siblings in Sweden and their families.

Youth news Nordikids No. 208

munster, in / December brought wonderfully warm weather in the Chicago/NW Indiana area, making for great travel weather for our Dec. 6 Luciafest at Wicker Park Social Center in Highland, IN. More than 130 people were there to hear the Nordikids sing their Lucia and Jul songs and to meet our Lucia – Ava Tomky, 11, from Schererville, IN. Her parents are Bryan and Tonia Tomky and her farmor is Janice Bystrom Tomky who was once a member of Solstralen No. 17. Guests enjoyed music under the direction of Lynnea Sinwelski, a lovely meatball luncheon, raffles and craft sales. Guests from Bessemer Lodge and Siljan Mora Tuna were there, and the highlight after the performance was the raffle of an American Girl Doll, donated by Linda Tylk, member of Bessemer. Dancing around the tables was a big hit to get everyone into the spirit of the holidays!

Nordikids Lucia Ava Tomky

submitted by lynda smith

WASHINGTON

MASSACHUSSETTS

JOHN FOGES, 95, died Nov. 16, 2014. A CLIFTON STROMBERG GUSTAFSON, 97, member of Svea 469, Longview and WWII died on Jan. 3, 2016 in Chatham, MA. Member of Army veteran serving in the South Pacific and Vinland Lodge of Cape Cod 703 since September earning a Bronze Star. He was born in Chicago, 2010. Coast Guard veteran and insurance profes- IL to Steve and Susie Foges, one of eight siblings. sional. Predeceased by wife Janet. Survived by He married Marie Roeper in 1938 and had a son John and daughter Geraldine. two daughters and dear friend, Babs Lidbeck. MARILYN JOYCE MONSEGLIO SOHOEL, 77, born in Hartford, died on Jan. 10, 2016 in West Yarmouth. Marilyn and husband Eivind joined Vinland of Cape Cod 703 in April 2008. Marilyn served as CL 2009-2010, VC 2010-2014 and Chairman 2015 (was to be installed as Chairman again on 01-16-2016.) Marilyn revitalized many festivals and special occasions such as Midsummer, Lucia and our International Potluck Luncheon, perfectly managing all the details as an event planner. She was also an active volunteer in several community groups. Eivind and Marilyn were the lead business partners in the U.S. branch of SPM Instrument AB (Sweden) in Connecticut and later MILC Corporation, a consulting firm in instrumentation. Marilyn is survived by daughter Deborah Sohoel-Goldberg and granddaughter Grace Sohoel-Goldberg (Vinland members), son Robert Lamson, daughter Kristin Sohoel-Smith and their families. She was predeceased by her husband Eivind (our tall, quiet Viking) and granddaughter Maddie Lamson. MICHIGAN

ELEANOR ANDERSON was born May 7, 1923 in Lawrence, MI to Iver and Signie Anderson. She joined Joe Harbor Lodge No. 534 of St. Joseph in 1961, making her a 54-year member. She served as Chairman for 19 years until 2012. The tough old Swede died at age 92 on Oct. 16, 2015. OHIO

ROBERT SALES, 89, of Fairview Park, died Dec. 24, 2015 in Parma, four days short of his 90th birthday. Born on Dec. 28, 1925 in Niagara Fall, NY. Joined Nobel-Monitor Lodge No. 130 in Oct. 2004. He leaves behind his loving wife Twyla, sons William and James, and daughter Kathryn, as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other relatives. OREGON

JOHN ARVID NORDGREN, 97, died in September 2015 in Astoria. He was born in Tojby WWW.VASAORDER.COM

ARLINE “BECKY” JOHNSON-HART died on Dec. 30, 2013. Born in Minot then moved to Washington state. She is survived by husbands Alvin Johnson and Rodney Hart. As a member of Norden 233, Becky loved singing in the Vasa Choir. She is survived by two daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, siblings and relatives. STANLEY LINDWOOD died in Tacoma on Oct. 30, 2014. He served in the Royal Swedish Air-Force and owned/operated service stations and Stan’s Towing. Lifetime member of Norden 233 and member of Scandinavian Cultural Center at PLU. Survived by wife Ulla, two daughters, a granddaughter and a sister. GUST PECK, born Mar. 19, 1932 in Fairfield, ID, and died Feb. 14, 2014 with wife Evelyn at his side. Gust served in the Air Force during WWII and the Korean War. He was a commercial truck driver also taught truck driving. He was long time member of Norden 233 and leaves behind a loving family who misses him. JOHN O. SANDSTROM died on Dec. 30, 2014. Born in Finland and moved to Tacoma in the 1970s. John worked for Puget Sound Plywood and was a member of Norden 233. He loved animals and his flower garden. He is survived by sisters and other relatives, and longtime companion Susan Edwards. HJORDIS (ANDERSSON) BRANDSTROM, born 1918 in Åmsele, Sweden, died November 2015 in Åmsele at 97 years of age. Joined Frihet 401, Seattle in 1956 and was a Gold Star Member. Predeceased by husband Emil, leaving son John and grand-niece Alna Brandstrom. WISCONSIN

LORRAINE ZEMBINSKI, 84, died Jan. 12, 2016. Loved mother and mormor, teacher, officer and president of many Scandinavian chapters as well as education alumnus. Passionate about music, genealogy, sewing and WI sport teams. A Linde 492 member since 1984.

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the vasa star / Winter 2016

Swedish news Tomelilla No. 631 tomelilla, sweden / Decembermötet började med “Rudolf med röda mulen” och efter Vasasången hälsade ordföranden Gull-May Åstradsson oss välkomna, kassören Carola Örnhed redogjorde kassarapporter och logehistorikern Hans-Ingvar Hansson om gångna tiders logehistoria. KL Gertrud Hägg berättade om John Newton född i England 1727, och hans händelserika liv. Han tvingades till sjöss, senare deserterade från ett fartyg, men återkom och blev degraderad. Som följd av detta sökta han sig till slavskeppen, som fraktade fångar mellan Afrika och Amerika. Han blev egen skeppare. Efter en svår storm blev han frälst efter en händelse under stormen. Han fortsatte till sjöss några år. Han läste teologi och blev präst på engelska landsbygden. Hans stora bedrift var komponerandet av den vackra melodin “Amazing Grace”. Mötet avslutades med “Du gamla du fria” och glad julmusik. Tomelilla lucia-flickor sjöng och ett stort julbord avåts, där ingenting saknades, skinka, sill, ris ála Malta, stort gottebord samt kaffe med pepparkaka. Tomtefar, Enar Hallström, och tomtemor, Britt Lantz ledde juldansen med liv och lust och slutade med Karusellen och Raketen, julklappar och gottepåsar till barnen. Systrarna Lantz överraskade med att sjunga och spela “Hosianna” av Leonard Cohen. Sen försäljning av skänkta vinster. Som vanligt bjöds det friskt och många lyckades få en sak tack vare Hans-Ingvar Hanssons utroparetalanger. Även en trevlig fest har ett slut så även 2015 års julfest. Vi önskade varandra god jul och gott nytt år och vandrade glada och mätta hem i den stormiga natten.

kulturledare gertrud hägg

Tomtefar, Enar Hallström, och tomtemor, Britt Lantz ledde juldansen med liv och lust och slutade med Karusellen och Raketen, julklappar och gottepåsar till barnen.

Höganäs No. 634 höganäs, sweden / Till julmötet samlades ett 60-tal logesyskon. Kvällen startade med mingling, glögg och pepparkakor. O Birgit Olsson öppnade mötet och önskade alla välkomna. Protokoll och skrivelser lästes upp, bl.a tackkort från Elise Ek som tackade för julblomman. Jan Hassleryd rapporterade att medlemsvårdskommittén besökt fem Vasasyskon och överlämnade blommor. Budgeten godkändes med en ökning av medlemsavgiften med 20. FDO Karl-Axel Bengtsson övertog ordförandeklubban och genomförde slutnominering och val av 2016 års tjänstemän. KL Hans Bogren framförde en hälsning från Tucson nr 691 och läste därefter upp ett brev från år 1995 som skrivits av en mycket kär vän, Hilda P. Johnson, som under många år skrev till vår loge. Knut Rosenkvist läste ett brev från Bertil Winther, Golden Valley 616, som önskade oss en god jul. Mötet avslutades och Birgit önskade oss alla god jul och ett gott nytt år. Kvällen fortsatte med ett dignande julbord och risgrynsgröt och saftsås. Kaffet serverades,

ljuset dämpades och Luciasången hördes och 6 skönsjungande medlemmar av barbershopkören Pearls of the Sound trädde in och sjöng underbara julsånger. Ovationerna slutade aldrig och vi fick extrasånger. Det klappade på dörren; två tomtar med säckar delade ut klappar till alla snälla Vasasyskon. Magdalini Kalivas läste julevangeliet och alla tände var sitt ljus och sjöng tillsammans ”Nu tändas tusen juleljus”, en stämningsfull tradition. Innan vi skiljdes uppvaktades Birgit Olsson och Niels Henriksen, som båda fyllde år efter 12-slaget, med sång och hurrarop. berit och hans bogren

Smakligt julbord.

Två av kvällens många hedersgäster.

BrittMarie Rönn, Ewy Blomgren, Christina Magneklint och Stig Nilsson, som alla fick en röd ros med vidhängande trisslott, för deltagande i alla möten under året.

god fortsättning kära vasasyskon Stormästarens meddelande Kära Vasasyskon, När jag skriver detta, är det nya året bara ett par veckor gammalt. Vår jul började tidigt i år. Ja, det gör den alltid med förberedelserna, önskelistorna och att hämta hem granen. Vår tradition är att vi åker högst upp på Santa Cruz Mountains och sågar vår egen på Four Winds granodling. Förr ofta med hela familjen, men i år, bara Birgitta och jag. Hur som helst, som jag sa, vår jul började tidigt. Vi har normalt familjen hemma hos oss på julafton och så fort alla har anlänt plundras julstrumporna, som “hänger vid den öppna spisen”. Tidigt på eftermiddagen blir det sedan julbord, med all den traditionella julmaten. I år, på grund av familjens resplaner, gjorde vi detta redan den 23 december. Tidigt på kvällen är sedan till för att öppna presenter. Väntan är en tortyr för barnbarnen, men i år blev vi alla överraskade när vi hittade biljetter till matinén på Star Wars filmen i julstrumporna. Brevmärket har varit ett bra fundraiser program i många år. Tack till alla ni som gav förra året. Märket har en Liljekonvalj som motiv,

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Gästriklands landskapsblomma. Genom att är färre distrikt som håller sina möten. Året donera stöder du Storlogens stipendiepro- börjar med att DL Pacific Southwest #15 håller gram. Två andra fundraiser program under sitt årliga möte i slutet av februari och sedan året är till förmån för Vasas Riksarkiv. Heri- vårt eget DL Golden Gate #12 i slutet på april. tage Fund på våren och Den Evigt Levande Vi tycker om den gemenskap som kommer Julgranen före jul, där vi kommer ihåg våra med att träffa gamla och nya vänner. Om du medlemmar och vänner som inte längre är har möjlighet, rekommenderar jag starkt att med oss. Jag uppmanar er att ge generöst i år du deltar i ett Distriktsmöte. Det är inte bara till för delegater och tjänstemän utan för till alla dessa program. Vi hade inte planerat att resa något mer i alla Vasamedlemmar. Du kommer att se att år, men trots detta blev det en biltur till Ba- “Distriktet” består av Vasamedlemmar, precis kersfield CA (~250 mi eller 400 km härifrån) som du och jag. Alla gör sitt bästa för att göra mellan jul och nyår. Detta för att delta i ett Vasa till den organisation vi alla uppskattar mycket speciellt Vasa event. Vår nyaste Lodge, och värnar om. Vi har äntligen fått lite regn och det är Kern River #763, instiftades i Bakersfield den 30 december 2015. Med DM Bertil Winther just nu bland det bästa vi vet. Ja, man gillar som svingade klubban, biträdd av SLD Susan faktiskt regn när det har kommit så lite de Premo och DS Isabella Muscarella, hemma senaste åren. Vi får för närvarande regn mer hos utsedda FD Ordförande Jennifer Dewey, eller mindre varannan dag. Men vi behöver bildades en ny Loge. Den första på mer än åtta naturligtvis få mycket mer, eftersom våra år. Ett verkligt speciellt event! Grattis Loge reservoarer fortfarande bara är fyllda till 30%. Ni har alla hört mig säga detta många Kern River #763 och grattis till Distriktslogen Pacific Southwest #15 som på detta vis fick gånger; MEDLEMSKAP FORTSÄTTER ATT VARA VÅRT STÖRSTA PROBLEM. Behåller ni en ny Lokalloge. Jag har ofta talat om våra Vasaresor. I år är era medlemmar? Får ni in nya medlemmar? inget undantag, även om det under jämna år Har ni tagit kontakt med några av era tidigare

medlemmar för att se om de vill komma till ett Logemöte? De kanske vill komma tillbaka som medlemmar. Ett engagerande Logemöte är nödvändigt för att locka nya och behålla nuvarande medlemmar. Var inte tråkiga! Konkurrensen om nuvarande och blivande medlemmars tid är hård. Det är viktigt att ha mat på mötet och att ha ett program som engagerar. Kulturledare, jag utmanar er alla att finna ett engagerande ämne och utveckla ett program runt detta. Arbeta med Distriktskulturledaren och dela idéer med andra Loger. Internet är en mycket bra källa för information. En annan källa för information är dina egna Logemedlemmar. Det är varje medlems jobb att göra varje möte attraktivt för nuvarande och framtida medlemmar. Starta en medlemskampanj för att få in nya medlemmar! EN ny medlem är allt jag ber om från var och en av er. Kom också ihåg att det är mycket viktigt att behålla de nuvarande medlemmarna. Det tål att upprepas: Var inte tråkiga! i sanning och enighet, tore kellgren, grand master