nordstjernan The Swedish Newspaper of America
Published by Swedish News. Volume 144 No. 10, May 30, 2016. Price per copy $2.50
Page 21-36
Page 16
Photo: Kate Gabor/kungahuset.se
Page 17
Photo: Tomas Enqvist/Embassy of Sweden
Midsummer is something all Swedes look forward to, and a tradition that non- Swedes can fall in love with easily as well. In short, a piece of culture to be proud of. Find a Midsummer event near you through our Midsummer in Swedish America listing / Page 8
Photo: Yuliya Evstratenko
This Week, Page 16
Walkabout: Prästgatan, Stockholm by Leif Rosqvist guest@nordstjernan.com
Continued on page 4
New in Brief, Page 2, 3
Photo: Bo Zaunders
In most of my walkabouts I take the reader for a longer walk in an area of the inner city of Stockholm, but this time I go for a relatively short walk along one of the most interesting streets in the Old Town (Gamla Stan) of Stockholm. Prästgatan is one of the least commercialized streets and has a very special meaning to me. It provides an image of how Gamla Stan looked many years ago. Prästgatan (Priest Street) is in the Old Town, stretching from the cul-de-sac at Storkyrkobrinken near the Royal Castle to Österlånggatan on the south side of Gamla Stan (route in red on the map), situated within the old city wall that then surrounded the town. The northern part of the street was previously (1700-1800) called Svenska Präst-
Film about the rivalry between tennis greats Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe due out next year / Why are American lobsters considered invasive species in Swedish waters? /IKEA opens in Nevada with the usual fanfare / Many firsts enjoyed at the Eurovision Song Contes.
Prästgatan in Stockholm’s Old Town, “Gamla Stan”
Kurbits as art and decoration
The iconic, floral painting that grew out of a folk tradition more than one hundred years before the Swedish immigrants brought it to the U.S., has its own distinct style still in use today. It was first developed in central Sweden, where farmers painted furniture and walls in their homes. When work became scarce, the Leksand and Rättvik painters travelled beyond the borders of Dalarna and brought their craft to other parts of the country. They brought with them the techniques but also adapted to the tastes of new customers in other regions. New colors, motifs and patterns developed, and what we know as kurbits was brought to America, too, where / Page 20 some painters are still passionate about their art.
Perspectives, Page 11
Living between Russia and the USA...
Page 10
news in brief. page 2
Swedish News Rättsstaten får inte retirera Gästledare
Sydsvenska Dagbladet 16 maj, 2016
A new film will tell the story of tennis star Björn Borg, above, and his rivalry with John McEnroe in the 1970s-1980s.
Borg vs McEnroe
American actor Shia LaBeouf has signed on to play tennis bad boy John McEnroe in Borg/McEnroe, an upcoming biopic about one of the greatest sports rivalries of all time. The film will trace the long-running battle for supremacy in the tennis world in the 1970s and 1980s between McEnroe and Swedish star Björn Borg. Swedish actor Sverrir Gudnason will play Borg. Stellan Skarsgard has signed on to play Borg’s coach Lennart Bergelin. Danish director Janus Metz has been signed for the production and Sweden’s SF Studios and Film Väst will co-produce together with Swedish Television and Yellow Film & TV. Shooting on Borg/McEnroe is set to begin this fall in Sweden, London, Monaco and New York for a planned 2017 release.
States question Swedish lobster ban
The Massachusetts congressional delegation has joined Maine in questioning the push by the Swedish government to declare American lobsters an invasive species. Sweden wants the European Union to bar imports of live American lobsters into Europe, a response to the appearance of 32 American lobsters in Swedish waters. The Massachusetts’ delegation has sent a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry and others saying the Swedish claim needs to be backed up with scientific evidence. Massachusetts has the second-largest lobster fishery in the country, after Maine, whose congressional members expressed similar concerns last month. Both delegations say a ban on imports to Europe would hurt their states’ economy.
Refugee sentenced to life
A Swedish citizen originally from Rwanda was sentenced to life in prison for his role in the 1994 genocide in the African country. The Stockholm District Court said that Claver Berinkindi, who obtained Swedish citizenship in 2012, had participated in five massacres in 1994
IKEA opens first Nevada store
The Swedish furniture giant opened its first store in Las Vegas on May 18, the 42nd store in the U.S. and the 385th store worldwide. The store opening was celebrated in the usual IKEA way; with give-aways of gift cards, furniture (100 of founder Kamprad’s favorite armchair Poäng among them), free mattresses and free monthly meatballs for a year. Consistent with IKEA policy the 351,000 square-foot store along the Las Vegas Beltway has Nevada’s largest singleuse retail rooftop solar array.
April surplus for Swedish government
The central government’s payments resulted in a surplus of SEK 14.5 billion in April, in line with the Debt Office’s forecast of SEK 14.0 billion. For the twelve-month period up to the end of April 2016, Swedish central government payments resulted in a surplus of SEK 23 billion.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
Även om stenarna regnar. Det har varit en orolig helg på flera håll i landet. Natten till måndagen brann sju bilar i stadsdelen Klockaretorpet i Norrköping. Först efter att polisen säkrat omgivningarna körde brandkåren in för att släcka bränderna. Tidigare på söndagskvällen stenades en polispatrull och i fredags hittade polisen lager med stenar på hustak i området. Oroligheter har förekommit under ett par veckor. Efter att nyligen ha utsatts för stenkastning vägrar räddningstjänsten att arbeta i Klockaretorpet utan polisskydd. Även från Borlänge rapporteras liknande attacker. Polis och räddningstjänst fick larm om flera bränder i området Tjärna ängar och möttes sedan av stenkastning när de anlände. I juni ska socialförvaltningen i Uppsala redovisa en kartläggning av orsakerna till vårens bränder och stenkastning i Gottsunda. Med start på påskafton och flera kvällar och nätter därefter sattes bilar och sophus i brand. Polis, räddningstjänst och lokaltrafikens bussar stenades. “Kanske behövs fler träffpunkter för unga och kanske annan sysselsättning”, spekulerar socialnämndens ordförande Ingrid Burman (V). Angrepp på polis, ambulans och brand-
kår har blivit allt vanligare. Att mötas av Självklart går det ofta att hitta bakomstenkastning är nu en realitet på många liggande sociala och ekonomiska fakplatser för blåljuspersonal. torer som kan förklara social oro, vilka “Det här är ett relativt nytt fenomen uttryck denna än tar sig. Arbetslöshet som stadigt ökat sedan mitten på 00-talet leder till bidragsberoende och fattigdom, och framåt. I dag är det här vardagsmat ungdomar som misslyckats i skolan tapi ganska många svenska städer”, säger par framtidstron. Magnus Hörnqvist, kriminolog vid Utanförskap måste brytas. Men det Stockholms universitet, till Expressen. är ett arbete på lång sikt. Under tiden Camila Salazar Atías, kriminolog och måste lag och ordning upprätthållas. De gängexpert på Fryshuset, efterlyser i kriminella gängen ska inte få ta makten likhet med Burman “meningsfulla ak- över delar av våra städer. tiviteter” och säger bland mycket annat: Allt annat är att verkligen offra män“Vi vet att har man en relation till en niskorna i förorten. person, då kastar man inte sten på den. Det är dessa människors livsmiljö som Problemet är när polisen själva som förslummas. grupp representerar ett samhälle som Det är deras bilar som brinner. inte är inbjudande.” Det är deras trygghet som går upp i rök. För få fritidsgårdar eller andra mötesDet är de som kanske inte får vård i tid platser, ett samhälle som stänger ute, om inte ambulanser kan färdas i området som avvisar – det är förklaringar som utan att invänta poliseskort. återkommer i olika varianter. Många Det är de som betraktas med misstänbetraktar det som ett sofistikerat och ksamhet när de söker jobb därför att de medmänskligt resonemang. bor i ett område med dåligt rykte. Samtidigt är det förklaringar som inte För visst är det så att laglöshet och orokan motbevisas. För så länge det finns ligheter leder till att ett område stigmasociala problem går det alltid att hävda tiseras. Men lösningen kan inte vara att att det saknas mötesplatser, att samhället tiga om problemen. Lösningen kan inte inte är tillräckligt inbjudande. vara att samhället och rättsstaten tar ett Att lyfta ansvaret från individen och steg tillbaka. Det är varken sofistikerat lägga över det på samhället, på diffusa eller medmänskligt. Det är att kapitulera. strukturer, döljer mer än det klargör. Att upprätthålla lag och ordning är en Det ger exempelvis ingen förklaring förutsättning för civilisation. Alternativet till varför den absoluta majoriteten av är kaos och ett samhälle där djungelns alla människor som lever under svåra lag och den starkes rätt råder. omständigheter förblir laglydiga.
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News in brief. page 3
Photo: Yuliya Evstratenko
Swedish Midsummer 101 A Swedish midsummer is ... “endless” summer with sun, fun, great food, flowers, dancing and joy ... wwa piece of Swedish culture to be proud of. Midsummer is something all Swedes look forward to, and a tradition that non-Swedes can fall in love with easily as well. In short, a piece of culture to be proud of. You’re far from Sweden but you still want to celebrate Midsummer, so what do you do? Well, you can check to see if there are any Swedish Midsummer celebrations in your area - see page 8 for our listing. (And check our events online at www. nordstjernan.com closer to June for updates.) If not, here’s what you can do to celebrate yourself. And why not invite some friends as well? 1. Midsummer is one of the most important holidays of the year in Sweden, and probably the most uniquely Swedish in the way it is celebrated. Raising and dancing around the maypole (“midsommarstång” or “majstång”) is an important activity. Wayne Soderlund constructed his own maypole with green tubes and decorated it with synthetic leaves and flowers. 2. Flowers are important. Swedes really go overboard with flowers for Midsummer. The most important one is the “midsommarkrans,” the flower wreath everyone (often including boys and men) wear. 3. Food might be the most important ingredient in a Swedish Midsummer. A variety of pickled herrings are a must, as are chives (chopped) and “gräddfil” easily substituted with sour cream,
as well as new potatoes boiled with dill. Bowls and bowls of strawberries are just as important for dessert, with or without whipped cream. With the herring, you drink “snaps,” a strong alcoholic beverage, usually aquavit or vodka. Snaps cannot be consumed without a few “snapsvisor” (snaps songs) to go with it. 4. Magic. This is the most magical day of the year. Why? Because it doesn’t end! On Midsummer the sun doesn’t set, and the day simply spills into night and then into the next day. For Swedes who have been inundated with darkness for all those long winter months, it’s easy to see why this day is so important. Traditionally, young unmarried women (and girls) pick seven (or nine) different kinds of flowers and put them under their pillow. When they sleep, they will dream about their future spouse. Also herbs are special on Midsummer—they are more potent than usual, and the water from springs brings good health. 5. Clothes. If you go to a Swedish Midsummer celebration, you don’t want to be dressed up too much (remember you will do a lot of “ringdans” around the maypole so leave the fancy gowns and suits at home). However, if you do have a “folkdräkt,” a folk costume, this is the day to put it on. For Midsommar celebrations in Battery Park in New York City, many people show up in Swedish soccer jerseys or other Swedish T-shirts. Make sure you have a wreath of flowers on your head. According to our friend and connoisseur, the late Professor Jan Öjvind
Swahn, Midsummer is the easiest of all Swedish holidays when it comes to food as the menu is practically given; herring, preferrably matjes herring, spring potatoes with sour cream and chives. For dessert fresh strawberries with whipped cream or a strawberry cake (we’ll include our favorite cake recipe in issue 11). Around Midsummer, and in Northern Sweden especially, this was the time to put the cows out to pasture and seriously begin to milk once again. It was the time to make the first processed sour cream of the season. A variety of pickled herring can be found at some retailers often of German origin such as Schaller & Weber in NYC or one of the many specialty stores you find represented throughout America and on our pages in this issue. (Not into herring? Turn to page 19 for another great dish and a recipe for early summer.) Many will still make their own herring but however and wherever you celebrate; whether the event occurs in a park in the midwest where many of the early Swedes settled, far west in California, Washington, Oregon or at the tip of Manhattan with Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty in sight, or in Sweden where similar observances have been held in the same places for centuries—the atmosphere is the same, an abandon of the usual activities and a return to the great feeling of joy. Wishing everyone a happy, sunny beginning of the summer and a glorious midsummer wherever you are! The Editors
Life made Sweder through NORDSTJERNAN: Call 1.800.827.9333 ext. 10, to order.
The Eurovision song contest, televised worldwide from Stockholm, was won by Jamala from Ukraine.
Many firsts at Eurovision Song Contest
It was a close contest, and the whole world was watching this year. Televised around the world for the first time ever, the block-buster song contest was won by Jamala from Ukraine. Twenty-six finalists battled it out in Stockholm, this year’s host city of the annual event. Scores were decided by national juries as well as viewers, a new process that was designed to feel more democratic. Jamala won with her song, “1944,” inspired by her great-grandmother’s story of persecution, which resonates even today. In fact, political leaders in Moscow and Crimea protested against the song, but the jury approved the lyrics nonetheless. U.S. pop star Justin Timberlake was Eurovision’s first-ever guest entertainer during the Grand Finale, adding to the hype that was expected to be the most-watched in the show’s history since the event was first staged in 1956.
More crime against first-responders
There’s been an increase in crimes against paramedics, fire fighters and police. A longtime target for attacks, emergency service workers in Sweden have experienced more frequent and increasingly harmful crimes against them. Swedish police have been attacked in 14 so-called “no-go zones” with knives and hand grenades; they are bracing for more violence this summer. Certain neighborhoods, many known for high migrant populations, have been designated as unsafe for emergency crews to respond to fires or medical emergencies without an armed police escort.
Melatonin affects type 2 diabetes
A study from Lund University in Sweden, published May 12, 2016 in Cell Metabolism, shows that the sleep hormone melatonin impairs insulin secretion. Up to 30 percent of the population may have a pancreas that’s sensitive to the effects of melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone that helps maintain circadian rhythm. The amount of melatonin varies throughout the course of the day and is affected by light. People with this increased sensitivity carry a slightly altered melatonin receptor gene that is a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The study, which included 23 healthy people who carry the gene variant in question and 22 noncarriers in the same age group with the same body mass index (BMI), could explain “why the risk of type 2 diabetes is greater among, for instance, overnight workers or people with sleeping disorders,” says Professor Hindrik Mulder, whose lab studies the pancreas. “A third of all people carry this specific gene variant. Our results show that the effect of melatonin is stronger in them. We believe this explains their increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes,” says Mulder. The researchers hope their studies will help inform future approaches to personalized medicine.
The Exchange Rate: $1.00 = SEK 8.34 05.18.2016
May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
Photography: Anna Velikova (EBU)
Swedish News
feature. page 4
Prästgatan, Stockholm
Prästgatan south toward Österlånggatan Continued from page 1
gatan (Swedish Priest Street), named after the Swedish priests in Storkyrkan, and the southern part was called Tyska Prästgatan (German Priest Street) after the German Church and the large German merchant community in Gamla Stan. The very short piece north of Storkyrobrinken was named Helvetiegränden (Hell Street) in the area called Hell. There are different views on why this area got its name, maybe because the town executioner lived there. Thankfully, significant changes in the nam-
ing convention left us with just Prästgatan. I pick a sunny Sunday morning when I’m able to see the early morning sun shining on the richly colored (red, yellow and brown) house facades. I stop for a moment and smell the water and a slight scent of newly mowed grass on a small island around the old town. This is only possible in the morning until higher temperatures and traffic take over. I feel the uneven surface of cobblestones under my feet — all streets in Stockholm were at one time covered with cobblestones, but they are mostly gone by now. I’m very happy some streets in Gamla Stan are still covered with them, helping preserve the character of the oldest part of the city.
Serenaden i Prästgatan Ah, ah, haha! mina bröder! Ett fönster står öppet åt söder! Undan gardin! Fram min blondin! Skynda, mitt hjärta förblöder! Stjärnan på himlen den höga sig speglar förtjust i ditt öga! Är hon blondin? Ja, hon är fin! Dock solosång båtar oss föga. Men stuprännan ger en chans, kavaljer! Jag klättrar opp och sedan ner! Blondin med de rosende kinder och gyllne böljande hår! Med barm lätt beslöjad och trinder du i ditt fönster står. Prästinna i prästgatans vimmel l åt upp din port och sal, ty längs stuprännan upp till din himmel är vägen allt för hal. 17th century waste pipes.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
I continue walking along. Suddenly I remember my grandfather, happily singing the song “Serenad i Prästgatan.” This song was written by Swedish poet Evert Taube in 1928 while at his favorite restaurant, Gyllene Freden (The Golden Peace). This memory fills me with joy and I become aware of the deep, deep soul of Stockholm. The first item of interest on my walk is Ankargränd (Anchor Alley), the intersection between Trångsund Street and Prästgatan, just west of the Church Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral). Derived from Marcus Andersson Ankar, in 1704, and his simple eating establishment (it would be called fast-food today), Ankaret (The Anchor) is at number 5 in front of the church. While the restaurant was in operation in the late 17th century, the present name of the alley is first mentioned in 1731. Until then it Ah, ah, haha! my brothers! A window is open to the south! Put aside the curtain! Come out my blond! Hurry, my heart bleeds to death! The star high in the sky reflect keenly in your eye! Is she blond? Yes, she is nice! However, solo solo song gain us little. But the drain-pipe gives a chance, cavalier! I climb up and then down! Blondie with the rosy cheeks and golden flowing hair! With thinly veiled bosom and voluptuous you stand in your window. Priestess of the Priest Street crowd open up your door and hall, because along the drainpipe up to your heaven the path is too slippery.
Ref: The song can be heard sung by Evert Taube on Youtube.
seems to have been a nameless backstreet. The present building was built to the plans of Erik Palmstedt in 1772, and retains its original appearance with its Rococo corner facing Prästgatan and small barred windows. The famous Swedish poet and songwriter Cornelius Vreeswiik’s Museum is located at Ankargränd/Trångsunds gatan. I continue my walk, still having the song in my head. I’m walking toward the intersection of Kåkbrinken, where I find a very interesting rune stone (runsten) in the wall, with the inscription “Torsten and Frögunn had this stone erected after their son.” It was probably brought to Stockholm to be used as building material, from where is not known. As the female name Frögunn is considered pagan, the stone is believed to date back to 1070-1100, thus being about 200 years older
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feature. page 5
than the city of Stockholm. I see some interesting outlets in the walls of other buidings. I wonder about them and find out they are waste pipes from the 17th century, where waste came out of the apartments and went directly into the street. To avoid smell and hazards with waste decay, the landlord had to clean the pipes daily, then they flooded the street with water so the waste would move into Lake Mälaren or the Baltic Sea. The waste pipes were put underground in the 1860s. I look up and see more than the blue sky. Some sort of hooks hang at the top of the buildings. They are attic lifts for hoisting Prästgatan 78, the building where the beloved artist Carl Larsson was born in 1853. up goods to storage spaces. Space was scarce in the Old Town, then as now. The merchants needed to have storage somewhere and the best place was the attic. Here was space otherwise unused, and it was far away from the streets and people who could steal their goods.
Mårten Trotzig Gränd
Filled with new knowledge about storage of goods, I continue my walk on Prästgatan’s cobblestones and see “Mårten Trotzig Gränd” on my right, the most narrow alley (gränd) in Stockholm, just under three feet wide and 27 yards long. I covered the history of Mårten Trotzig Alley in an earlier walkabout story from Stockholm Old Town. To the left I see the German Church (Tyska kyrkan), sometimes called St. Gertrude’s Church, belonging to the German Saint Gertrude Parish of the Swedish Church. It is one of the most beautiful churches in Stockholm and I will spend some time to explore it. A little further down the street I come to another most interesting place in Gamla Stan: the birthplace of the artist Carl Larsson. Carl Larsson was born on May 28, 1853, at 78 Prästgatan. His parents were extremely poor, and his childhood was not happy. As an adult, Larsson moved to Paris in 1877 after working for several years as an illustrator of books, magazines and newspapers. There he spent several frustrating years as a hardworking artist without much success. Larsson was not eager to establish contact with the progressive French Impressionists; instead, along with other Swedish artists, he cut himself off from the radical movement of change and settled down with his Swedish painter colleagues in 1882 in Grez-sur-Loing, at a Scandinavian artists’ colony outside Paris. It was there that he met the artist Karin Bergöö, who soon became his wife, a turning point in Larsson’s life as well as his career. In Grez, Larsson painted some of his most important works, in watercolor and very different from the oil painting technique he had previously employed. Eventually, he and Karin returned to Sweden and raised their family in the home
Runestone at Kåkbrinken, probably brought to Stockholm to be used as building material.
mornings exploring this wonderful city’s “Old Town.” I hope it’s of interest to readers, too. • The song “Serenaden i Prästgatan” with Evert Taube can be found on
YouTube • The Mårten Trotzig walkabout is available at www.nordstjernan.com Leif Rosqvist
United Swedish Societies, Inc. Presents
76 Annual SWEDEN DAY th
A NEW YORK “MIDSOMMAR” TRADITION
Carl Larsson, self-portrait.
they made famous, Little Hyttnäs, in Sundborn. Carl and Karin painted everything in the house, which is now a museum, in their own infamous style. After another five minutes, I come to Österlånggatan, where my walk is reaching its end. I go toward Kornhamns Torg (Corn Harbor) for an early lunch in one of the restaurants with street seating. My Prästgatan walkabout is built on family memories when we spent early Sunday
SATURDAY JUNE 18, 2016 At Manhem Beach Club
“The Scandinavian Secret on the Sound!” 658 Clarence Avenue, Throgs Neck, Bronx, New York Park Opens 11 AM
Main Program 2 PM
Honoree of the Year 2016: Wayne Soderlund $10/entrance fee per person. Children under 12 that are accompanied by an adult are free. Entertainment, Miss Sweden Day, Scholarship Presentations Event information and applications for Miss Sweden Day Contest and Scholarship
www.SwedenDayNY.com
Phone Manhem Club – (718) 822-8965 or Phone Sweden Day (516) 565-2091
May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
perspectives. page 6
Sveriges kulturradikala experiment Fortsättning från Utgåva 9 Professor Claes Ryns Op-Ed finns att läsa i sin helhet, dels på heimdal.nu, dels på Nordstjernan’s websida under blog/guest: www.nordstjernan.com/blog/6/ Av Claes G. Ryn
Nufixering och verklighetsflykt
Utan att ens tänka på saken tycks många av dagens svenskar utgå från att mänskligheten efter årtusenden av sökande och just i dagens Sverige nått fram till det självklart rätta sättet att leva och se på saker och ting. Eftersom dessa människor i stort sett saknar historiska och andra referensramar, faller det dem inte in, att de numera vanliga synsätten och beteendemönstren skulle kunna vara historiskt sett outrerade eller skadliga. Förr i tiden? Var det inte då som allt var förtryck och lidande? Just därför att så många är så helt uppslukade av nuet, kan den kulturradikala livshållningen synas plausibel. Skulle den ens vara radikal? Det är väl att ifrågasätta detta förhållningssätt som är extremt och abnormt? Det rigorösa, krampaktiga motståndet mot avvikande idéer är förstås delvis ett sätt att avvärja en kritik, som många anar kunde bli både plågsam och omstörtande. Att till prövning behöva ta upp vissa grundantaganden upplevs som starkt olustbetonat, ja, som ett hot, inte minst därför att det i botten inte finns någon djupare övertygelse. Det är bekvämare att förringa eller bortförklara skriande problem. Svenskarna är nog duktigare, mera metodiska än de flesta när det gäller att för sig själva dölja en störande verklighet. Sex, lyxbostäder, bilar, resor, underhållning och droger distraherar och dövar pyrande oro och tristess. Verklighetsflykten och aningslösheten har tagit sig alltmer frapperande uttryck. När jag själv gjorde militärtjänsten hade Sverige ett ganska respektingivande försvar, men snart och särskilt efter Sovjetunionens fall började önsketänkande politiska ledare och svenska folket att intala sig, att det var helt rimligt att lägga ned försvaret. Tills helt nyligen fanns det ju “ingen hotbild”. Man har på liknande sätt försökt glömma andra hot mot frihet, liv och egendom. Polisen är i Sverige så underbemannad och allmänt otillräcklig, att uppklarade brott ligger på omkring 15 procent. Nästan inga stölder alls klaras upp. Massor av brott betraktas inte ens längre som en egentligen polisiär angelägenhet. Acceptansen för brott har blivit allt större, och förfärliga brott bestraffas med några års fängelse. Samma land har i proportion till befolkningens storlek tagit in långt flera invandrare från främmande kulturer än andra europeiska länder. Även här har regimens grunda, ohistoriska människosyn inneburit bristande verklighetskontakt. Regimen har berömt sig av att ha medkänsla med mindre lyckligt lottade och av att vara “öppen” och “tolerant” men har inte insett, att människor på djupet formas av sin egen kultur, att kulturer kan vara delvis oförenliga och att sådana olikheter kan leda till konflikt. Kulturradikalismen har samtidigt sett stor invandring som ett sätt att
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
utplåna kvardröjande traditionella svenska synsätt och beteenden. Det kan knappast förvåna historiskt och filosofiskt bevandrade personer, att svensk invandringspolitik och stor invandring av det slag som varit aktuellt fått just den sorts konsekvenser de fått. Hela områden av samhällen och städer har blivit enklaver för invandrare. Stora grupper lever i det närmaste isolerade och hävdar sin kulturella egenart, något som den svenska staten uppmuntrat bland annat genom att betala för hemspråksundervisning i vilka språk som helst. Många invandrare odlar en särart, som i grund strider mot gamla svenska begrepp om rätt och fel. Trots att en så hög procent av invandrarna uppbär statligt stöd, ifrågasätter många av dem den svenska statens överhöghet och följer sina egna rättsoch moralbegrepp. På sina håll kan poliser, ambulans- och brandmän inte utöva sitt yrke utan att riskera överfall. Ofta är det i invandrarområden kriminella som anger tonen. Att invandrare utgör en oproportionerligt stor del av dem som begår svåra brott och fyller fängelserna döljs för allmänheten, som kanske också föredrar att hållas okunnig om saken. Den sedan länge förda invandringspolitiken har bäddat för djupnande motsättningar mellan befolkningsgrupper. Inte minst sysslolöshet och tristess bland invandrare skapar jordmån för extremism. Speciellt den muslimska invandringen och befolkningsökningen i kombination med muslimsk värvning och agitation har gjort sådana problem alltmer svårbemästrade. I takt med att muslimer hävdar sin religiösa och kulturella identitet och de gamla svenskarna med sina kvarlevande kulturmönster och synsätt börjar känna sig åsidosatta, hotade och inträngda i ett hörn kommer spänningarna med stor sannolikhet att intensifieras. För människor som inte själva lever inom den kulturradikala bubblan med dithörande önsketänkande har det inte varit svårt att förstå, att fortsatt stor invandring skulle komma att kraftigt förvärra redan akuta problem. Tecknen på att Sverige håller på att spricka sönder har med tiden blivit alltmer påträngande. Det har inte varit långsökt att befara, att myndigheterna med tiden i ren desperation skulle komma att tillgripa drastiska åtgärder. Men svenskarna har inte fått tänka på sådana alls inte osannolika möjligheter. I den mån de ändå gjort det, har det fått ske i tysthet eller hemlighet. De som knystat om att invandringen borde begränsas för att råda bot på existerande problem och underlätta integrationen av redan inflyttade har av regimen utmålats som vidunder. Att vilja hålla traditionell svensk kultur levande har kallats och kallas “rasistiskt”. Inflyttade och andra icke-traditionella grupper bör enligt den kulturradikala regimen ha den största frihet att odla sin särprägel, men traditionella svenskar som vill göra detsamma beskylls för “hat” och “intolerans”—helt godtyckliga anklagelser, som stämmer bättre in på dem som utslungar dem.
Moral eller självbedrägeri?
Varför har den svenska regimen, antingen den politiskt kallar sig alliansen eller de
röd-gröna, så länge insisterat på att i invandringsfrågan fortsätta i samma spår? En av anledningarna är att den så länge inpräntat i alla, att en annan politik vore omänsklig. Att slå in på en ny linje vore därför liktydigt med en moralisk bankruttförklaring. I stället intalar sig regimens representanter, att den företräder stor upplysthet och djup medmänsklighet. Inget får stå i vägen för vad den anser vara dess moraliska adelsmärke: att ömma för och hjälpa människor som har det svårt. Inget får konkurrera med medlidandet som motiv för handling. Att en okritisk och allt överskuggande medkänsla i nuet skulle kunna skapa katastrofer och stort lidande i framtiden beaktas inte. Det djupt tvivelaktiga i denna blott sentimentala medkänsla framgår av att den i så hög grad består av självberöm och intimt hänger ihop med krass politisk beräkning. Om de svenska politikerna anat faran av kulturkrockar och splittring till följd av stor invandring, har det för dem vägt tyngre, att partier som ömmar för och erbjuder bidrag och service åt invandrare kan få deras röster i val. Den förda politiken har som sagt ansetts ändamålsenlig också från den kulturradikala utgångspunkten, att multikulturalism bidrar till att utplåna det gamla. Om de tongivande samhällsdebattörerna på så många områden saknat verklighetskontakt, hur är det då med de svenskar som egentligen vill, att något i stil med det äldre Sverige skall kunna fortbestå? Varför har de varit så passiva och undfallande gentemot kulturradikalismen med dess multikulturella budskap? Rädsla för regimens repressalier har förstås vägt tungt. Eftersom kulturradikalismens fientlighet mot det gamla genomsyrat samhället, inklusive skolorna, har svenskarna också alltmer tappat kontakten med äldre svensk och europeisk kultur. Flertalet har inte längre någon levande bekantskap med svensk historia, litteratur, musik, konst, religion, gamla seder, bygdetraditioner, o.s.v. I takt med att dessa tonat bort har den egna identiteten och viljan att föra den vidare försvagats. Regimen låter samtidigt ingen glömma, hur riktigt ond den gamla onda tiden var. Resultatet har hos etniska svenskar blivit bristande självförtroende och en rotlöshet i tillvaron, vilket bara accentuerats av globaliseringens undergrävande av kulturell egenart. Med tanke på hur iögonenfallande de nuvarande eller blivande problemen är, måste man undra, om inte många svenskars rädsla för att bli svartmålade och mobbade uppammat önsketänkande. Genom att intala sig, att utvecklingen inte är lika oroväckande som den kan förefalla, har man sluppit protestera och utsätta sig för regimens fientlighet och förakt. När det gäller just invandringen har denna undflyende attityd underlättats av att de som oroar sig i allmänhet inte själva bor i de av nyinflyttade mest påverkade områdena. Hur det än står till på dessa ställen, tänker nog många, skall det väl klara sig åtminstone så länge de själva är i livet. Besväras de av onda aningar, beror det väl på att de är otidsenliga eller—ve och fasa!—“intoleranta”. Så tänk inte på saken! Men så tvingas svenskarna burdust in i
Denna artikel publicerades först i Tidskriften Heimdal i slutet av februari, 2016. Heimdal är Sveriges äldsta och största studentförening, som, belägen i Uppsala, just i år friar 125-årsjubileum. Föreningen verkar enligt dess stadgar för “främjandet av en reformvänlig konservatism. Föreningens motto Tradere et resistere – föra vidare och stå emot – syftar till att en god politik såväl förvaltar som utvecklar, men också ifrågasätter och gör motstånd mot slentrianmässig och osund radikalitet.” Mer information: www.heimdal.nu
verkligheten, t.ex. av terrordåd begångna av invandrare på olika håll i Europa. Vad som håller på att hända går inte riktigt att negligera. Det går sakta upp för människor, att terrordåd är extrema men alls inte oförutsägbara konsekvenser av en länge förd politik och en därmed sammanhängande kulturell omvälvning. Invandringens värsta avigsidor bara exemplifierar och intensifierar svåra och djupnande problem. De som genomdrivit det kulturradikala experimentet i Sverige och annorstädes har varit kortsynta, verklighetsfrämmande, naiva och krassa. I sina egna ögon förblir de dock nobla förkämpar för det goda. De förstår i sin inbilskhet inte, att en moral utan verklighetssinne inte har något med moral att göra. “Moral” av den sorten är bara ett destruktivt och komprometterande självbedrägeri. Dess representanter kan inte komma ifrån, att det är de själva och samma andas barn i en tidigare generation som bär ansvaret för den kulturmiljö och dithörande sociala dissonans, som fått oro, missnöje, otrygghet och hat att sprida sig i Europa. Det går när det gäller just terrordåden att skylla på vad som händer i Mellanöstern, men dåden är också konsekvenser av en i Europa förd politik. De är bland annat hänsynslösa gerillaattacker och skärmytslingar i ett pyrande europeiskt inbördeskrig, om än ett krig där frontlinjerna är oklara och föränderliga och där ren djävulskhet och kriminalitet ofta blandas med politik och kvasi-religion. Kulturradikalismens skadeverkningar framträder här bara särskilt tydligt. I ett ögonblick av yrvaken klarsyn utbrast nyligen Sveriges statsminister: “Sverige har varit naiva”. Både i sin språkliga och moraliska hjälplöshet framstod han som en typisk produkt av det nya Sverige.
Aningslöshet och tankeförbud
Ovanstående genomgång av problem har tagit upp synpunkter, som den svenska kulturradikala regimen förstås anser oacceptabla. Sådana tankar bör inte ens få förekomma i den offentliga debatten. De hör ju uppenbarligen till någon annan, avlägsen, förvriden värld. Men tänk om det är den svenska regimens världsbild som är excentrisk och om det är den som sitter fast i en skrynkla i tiden? De perspektiv som anlagts i den här artikeln är i ett historiskt och internationellt perspektiv knappast anmärkningsvärda eller långsökta och skulle för ett kort historiskt ögonblick sedan ha framstått som okontroversiella t.o.m. i Sverige. Även många svenskar som inte är helt med på den kulturradikala agendan blir förstås illa berörda av vad jag skrivit. Det får
perspectives. page 7
Om författaren:
Claes G. Ryn är professor i statskunskap och f.d. institutionschef vid The Catholic University of America i Washington, D.C. (dock inte konvertit). Han har också undervisat på Georgetown University och University of Virgina. Bland hans många böcker märks Democracy and the ethical life; Will, imagination and reason; America the virtuous; A common human ground; och romanen A desperate man. 2000 inbjöds han av Pekinguniversitetet att hålla the Distinguished Foreign Scholar Lectures. Denna föreläsningsserie utgavs i bokform av samma universitet. Tre av hans böcker har utkommit i kinesisk översättning. Ryn fick 2012 en hedersprofessur vid Beijing Normal University i Peking. Han besöker ofta Kina. Ryn är i USA ordförande för National Humanities Institute och redaktör för den tvärvetenskapliga tidskriften Humanitas. Ryn var i ungdomen doktorand i Uppsala men disputerade i USA. Han medverkar då och då i svenska media. Han är hedersledamot i Föreningen Heimdal. dem ju att framstå som okritiska och passiva, ja, fega—vilket är skäl nog att avvisa artikeln som överdriven och ensidig. Men vilka är då egentligen sakfelen? Inget kan väl bättre illustrera låsningen i svensk opinionsbildning än att den frågan inte ens får debatteras. Den svenska regimen berömmer sig av öppenhet och tolerans men tolererar bara diskussion inom en mycket snäv räjong. Eftersom de som styr opinionsbildningen inte vill höra talas om klart avvikande åsikter, kunde jag ha skrivit en artikel med litet försiktiga, mjuka invändningar, d.v.s. göra just detsamma som skribenter eller politiker regelmässigt gör för att få fortsatt tillträde till den offentliga debatten. Men att skriva något sådant hade varit poänglöst. Det är ju för regimen självklara men dubiösa grundantaganden som behöver ifrågasättas. Förbudet mot all egentlig kritik av dessa har gjort självbespeglingen i svensk offentlig debatt absurd. Nominellt råder det nästan oinskränkt åsiktsfrihet i Sverige, men i praktiken vakar regimen noga över att bara godkända idéer och marginella invändningar skall finnas i omlopp. Synpunkter som i denna artikel skall hållas borta. Alla vet vilket högt pris dissidenter måste betala: förlora sin heder, bli isolerade, uteslutna ur samhällsgemenskapen. Sverige är kanske det land i västvärlden som hårdast bestraffar avvikelser från det kulturradikala konsensus. Det svenska samhället har ett klart totalitärt inslag. En kuschad och inställsam befolkning hjälper till att på gräsrotsnivå genomtrumfa regimens värderingar. Att så många medborgare så villigt medverkar i utstötningen av oliktänkande gör likriktningen rentav mera effektiv än den var i de gamla öststaterna. Situationen förbättras inte av att svenskarna redan före kulturradikalismens segrar var obenägna till självkritik och civilkurage. Det ligger nära till hands att anklaga dem som genomdrivit den kulturradikala omvälvningen för att var obegåvade, men så enkelt är det inte. Det är främst deras fantasi- och tankeliv som fjärmat dem från tidigare synsätt och gjort dem närsynta. Till skillnad från de eliter som skapade det äldre Sverige saknar de i stort sett kritisk distans till nuet. På grund av sin närsynthet och därmed sammanhängande verklighetssyn förväxlar de en förbipasserande nyck med historiens kulmen. De vill gärna tro, att de tjänar en nobel moralisk kraft, men mest av allt ger de i sin följsamhet och inställsamhet gentemot tidsandan intryck av att vara medlöpare, opportunister och karriärister. De är påfallande osjälvständiga. De saknar— vad?—gravitas, tyngd, djupare allvar, vilket
inte hindrar dem att med svensk stöddighet och självgodhet förhåna och läxa upp personer med annan uppfattning. Sverige kan vara det europeiska land som mest förbehållslöst accepterat den kulturradikala anmaningen att vända ryggen åt det egna landets äldre, historiskt framvuxna kultur. Man kan undra om ett land kan överleva en sådan grad av självförnekelse. Ett land som inte beaktar de historiska förutsättningarna för och källorna till det av bestående värde som landet uppnått riskerar att helt föröda detta arv och att glida iväg utan ankare. Detsamma gäller om en hel kulturkrets. Det är därför som så många historiker och filosofer i dag ställer frågan, om vi befinner oss mitt i västvärldens nedgång och sönderfall—en process som naturligtvis kan dra ut på tiden och inte utesluter partiell återhämtning här och där.
Då och nu: en summering
Skulle alltså människorna i min barndoms och ungdoms Sverige ha levt ett moraliskt, estetiskt, intellektuellt och socialt rikare liv, ha haft en mera fullödig, tryggare och tillfredsställande tillvaro? Så var det utan tvivel i avgörande avseenden—civilisationen höll på många sätt sina bastioner. Samtidigt medger jag gärna, att det var detta äldre Sverige, som skapade jordmån för och lät sig invaderas av kulturradikalismen. Det säger något om svagheter i det äldre Sverige, att svenskarna skulle komma att stå så handfallna och flata inför den kommande anstormningen. Skevheter och luckor inom fantasi- och tankelivet både underlättade och var uttryck för kulturradikalismens framträngande. Detta vore ämnet för en annan betraktelse. Det har alltså inte varit min avsikt att skapa intrycket, att Sverige under min barn- och ungdomstid skulle ha närmat sig ett idealtillstånd. Något sådant finns inte. Vad jag hävdar är, att det på avgörande sätt gått utför med Sverige. Dagens syn på vad som föregick den kulturradikala epoken är produkten av en störtflod av svartmålningar, som kulturradikaler under årens lopp producerat. Dessa nidbilder har påverkat även äldre svenskar och gjort dem mottagliga för radikalismens förringande av kvalitet, allvar och stil. Kulturradikalismen kan förstås på enstaka punkter ha varit välgörande genom att utmana stel, fantasilös tradition och slappt slentriantänkande. Men en benägenhet för självkritik ligger redan inbyggd i varje livskraftig tradition till skillnad från oböjlig konservatism. För att något gammalt skall kunna överleva och föras vidare måste det kontinuerligt nys-
kapas, utvecklas och anpassas till föränderliga historiska omständigheter. Den kulturradikala kritiken har varit något helt annat. Den har utgått från sitt eget allvetande och urskillningslöst angripit det gamla. Jag sörjer över att de senaste årtiondenas svenskar under kulturradikalismens inflytande i så stor utsträckning svikit eller glömt det bästa i arvet efter tidigare generationer, vanligen utan att begripa vad de gjort. Vad svenskar i min åldersgrupp lämnar i arv till barn och barnbarn är ett av kulturradikalismen härjat land. Ingen kan förutse historiens gång. Det är tänkbart att svenskar och andra västerlänningar till sist kommer att inse sin prekära situation och lyckas ta sig ur den. Dessvärre kan ibland bara katastrofer undanröja illusioner och aningslöshet. Beträffande Sverige kan jag inte tro annat än att det bakom fasaderna hos mera omdömesgilla människor finns ett stort uppdämt missnöje. Det går i längden inte att blunda för sammanhang, som bara blir alltmer påträngande och destruktiva. Till sist får ren självbevarelsedrift och ilska människor att strunta i regimens inpiskare och hotet om utfrysning.
En väg framåt
Vad som skulle behöva förändras för att Sverige skall kunna ta sig ur sin belägenhet har legat underförstått i vad jag skrivit om olika missförhållanden. Landet måste först av allt komma till rätta med sin inbitna inkrökthet och självbespegling. De härskande journalistiska, intellektuella, politiska och konstnärliga eliterna och deras antaganden måste ifrågasättas och gradvis ersättas. Det behövs en ny sorts intellektuella, som kan genomlysa kulturradikalismen och visa hur den gjorde om och skadade Sverige. Samtidigt måste det diskuteras hur landet i rådande historiska situation skall kunna röra sig mot högre livskvalitet och större allvar och djup. Tänkare, forskare, konstnärer och andra kan bidra till den nödvändiga tillnyktringen och kursändringen genom att återuppliva, vidareutveckla och tillämpa en äldre tids insikter och värden. Mest av allt hoppas jag nog på konsten som förlösande kraft. Kulturradikalismens mest förföriska och samtidigt mest skadliga aspekt har varit den romantiska drömmen om att i grund förvandla tillvaron, skapa ett samhälle av fördomsfri driftsutlevelse. Den därmed sammanhängande synen på livsåskådnings- och samlevnadsfrågor har gjort om uppfostran och utbildning och ändrat på barnens och ungdomens levnadsvillkor. Den har undergrävt
familjens roll som trygghetsfaktor och som förmedlare av livsvisdom och gott beteende. Kulturradikalismen har visat sin maktlystnad i centralstyrning, kollektivisering och likriktning. För att ett mera decentraliserat och frihetligt samhälle och en vitalisering av familjer, gemenskaper och närmiljö skall bli möjliga behöver en äldre livsinställning och äldre begrepp om familjeliv och personligt och medborgerligt ansvar återupplivas och anpassas till nya omständigheter. De svenska statliga skolorna har på ett beklämmande sätt förslösat och missbrukat dyrbar tid för de unga och hållit tillbaka mänskliga resurser. Med sin tyranniska jämlikhetsdoktrin, sitt motstånd mot konkurrens som sporre för eleverna och allsköns pedagogiska experiment har skolorna hämmat frigörandet av begåvning, skaparkraft och energi. Behovet av nytänkande är stort inte bara när det gäller det elementära—hur vanlig ordning skall kunna upprätthållas i klassrummen och hur de unga bäst och snabbast skall kunna lära sig läsa, skriva och räkna—utan framför allt när det gäller skolornas övergripande syften. En äldre tids västerländskt tänkande om skolornas högre mål och om behovet av bildning kan i tidsenlig form bli en stor tillgång. När man beaktar, att statens mest grundläggande ansvar är att skydda medborgarna till liv, lem och egendom och att befrämja samhällets sammanhållning och fortbestånd, framträder ett av den svenska regimens stora misslyckanden i blixtbelysning. Bara ett envist fasthållande vid förblindande ideologi och andra illusioner och ren och skär ansvarslöshet kan förklara hur regimen utlämnat folket åt social splittring och åt faror och hot, antingen dessa senare kommer inifrån eller utifrån. Att kraftigt stärka polis och försvar, göra om strafflagstiftningen och tänka om i invandringspolitiken är inte smaksaker utan en fråga om att rädda liv och begränsa lidande. Bara i ett samhälle på väg mot undergång sviker staten medborgarna på områden som dessa. Kulturradikalismen har haft initiativet i Sverige i årtionden. Utan att helt kunna utplåna äldre svensk kultur och bryta ned övrigt motstånd har den kunnat genomsyra samhället på alla livsområden. Den har inte bara kunnat sprida sina idéer utan fått tillämpa dem i praktiken, fått experimentera med ett helt land. Även om det kunde hävdas, att kulturradikalismen haft enstaka välgörande effekter, som inte tagits upp i denna artikel, kan slutsatsen bara bli en: att kulturradikalismen fått visa vad den går för och att det är hög tid att lägga om kursen. Det behöver inte vara för sent. n May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
feature. page 8
Midsummer events 2016 California San Pedro, (Norwegian Church) 25 Jun 2016 SWEA Los Angeles, SACC-LA’s & The Swedish Church’s Midsummer celebration. Maypole decorating, dance and food. More info www.losangeles.swea.org or www.svenskakyrkan.se/losangeles Email: losangeles@ swea.org or losangeles@svenskakyrkan.se or call 310-292-7080 House of Sweden, San Diego 26 Jun 2016 8:00 AM–4:30 PM Midsummer celebration. Swedish food, a Swedish choir, folk dancing and dance around the Maypole. Swedish Meatballs and pastries. More info www.houseofsweden.us Email: houseofswedensd@gmail.com or suzanhagstrom@yahoo.com or pat.coffey@ cox.net or call 619-300-1738 or 619-2868293 Rolling Hills Estates, Los Angeles 27 Jul 2016 5:00 PM Annual Midsummer Shrimp Feast at Nansen Field. All you can eat of you- peel shrimp and other delicious food will be offered. Dancing around the maypole. Reservations! For more info www.nansenfield.org or midsummer@ nansenfield.com or or NansenField@yahoo. com or southbaybookkeeping@roadrunner. com or 310-546-6680 Sveadal, Morgan Hill 18 Jun 2016 10:00 AM–11:30 PM Swedish American Patriotic League 122th Midsummer Celebration. Maypole, dancing, music & Dinner. More info www.sveadal.org Email midsummertickets@sveadal.org or call 408779-2854 or 415-407-0095 or 408-782-4631
Vasa Park Agoura 26 Jun 2016 8:30 AM –6:00 PM The Swedish American Central Association Annual Midsummer Festival. Maypole, dancing, singing, Children’s Games, Spelmanslag and Folk Dancing. Info www.vasapark.org, email: info@vasapark.org or lkosvic@gmail. com call 563-923-5828 or 818-894-2836
Colorado Estes Park 24 Jun 2016 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM 25 Jun 2016 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM 26 Jun 2016 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM Scandinavian midsummer celebration with Maypole, Scandinavian food, crafts, dancing, music, Scandinavian Folkdancers, Viking reenactors and Vintage Volvo and Saab auto show. More info www.estesmidsummer. com, email: info@estesmidsummer.com or bouldercathy46@gmail.com or call 303449-9596
Connecticut Fairfield 25 Jun 2016 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Annual Midsummer Fest at The Scandinavian Club. Maypole, music and dance. More info www.thescandinavianclub.com or scanclubnews@hotmail.com or carinak2010@ hotmail.com or 203-259-1571 Vasa Park, Meriden 26 Jun 2016 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Traditional Swedish Midsommarfest. Maypole, music, dance, entertainment and food. More info on Facebook: Vasa-Park-SouthMeriden-Connecticut or steinmillerl@gmail. com or call 203-238-7829 or 860-563-0040
Washington D.C
Iowa
Carderock Park, MD 26 Jun 2016 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Midsummer Celebration hosted by ASA, Drott Lodge, and SWEA DC. Maypole, dancing, activities for children and Potluck dinner. For more info www.scandinavian-dc.org or www.swea.org/washingtondc or www. drott-lodge.org or email: gerry@schueman. com or washingtondc@swea.org
Willow Creek Park, Iowa City 12 Jun 2016 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Iowa City Swedish Club Midsommar Fest with Majstång, games and a potluck dinner. More info: www.iowacityswedishclub.com or jswan52246@aol.com 319-338-9129 or jsmadsen@mchsi.com 319-351-2595
Illinois Andersonville 10 Jun 2016 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM 11 Jun 2016 11:00 AM - 10.00 PM 12 Jun 2016 11:00 AM - 10.00 PM 50th Annual Midsommarfest. Maypole, Swedish Music, dancing, kids’ entertainment, delicious food and ethnic dance troupes and cutting-edge bands. Info: http://www.andersonville.org/events/midsommarfest/ Bishop Hill 18 Jun 2016 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Music Festival and Midsommar Celebration. Music for the whole family. Procession to the Colony School. Decoration and dancing around the Maypole, Barn Dance. Info www. bishophill.com or Call 309-927-3899 or Email: bhha@mymctc.net Chicago 11 Jun 2016 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM Come celebrate Midsommar with the The Swedish American Museum. Traditional Swedish music and dancing around the Maypole! Info www.swedishamericanmuseum. org or museum@samac.org Good Templer Park, Geneva 19 Jun 2016 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Swedish Days, Geneva’s 106th Midsommar Festival. Arts & Crafts Fair, Folk Dancers, Maypole Celebration, Live Scandinavian Music and Dances, Children’s Choir, Viking Encampment and Swedish food. Info: www. swedishday.net, email: SwedishDay@gmail. com or jodymoreen@gmail.com or call 847845-2640 or 863-268-4664 Geneva 21 Jun 2016 – 26 Jun 2016 Annual Midsummer Festival - Swedish Days. Singing and Dancing around the Maypole, Parade, great food, lutfisk tasting, carnival rides, live music, a craft show, Swedish entertainment and many children’s games. More info: Ph 630-232-6060 or www.genevachamber. com Lake Forest 25 Jun 2016 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM SWEA Chicago Midsummer Celebration. Dancing around the maypole, games and smörgåsbord. More info: http://chicago.swea.org/events/midsommar-2/ or sweachicagoprogram@gmail.com Rockford 18 Jun 2016 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Swedish Historical Society hosts Midsommar Festival at the Erlander Museum. Maypole, Folk Dancers and entertainment, Swedish food & market, kid’s activities. More info www.swedishhistorical.org or 815-963-5559 or email: lristin@comcast.net
Glad Midsommar med Matjes, Kaviar, Knäcke och Ost.
349 Main Ave. | Norwalk, CT 06851 | Phone: 203-529-3244 Email: info@scandinavianbutik.com | www.scandinavianbutik.com
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
Vasa Park, South Elgin 18 Jun 2016 3:30 PM – 10:00 PM 11th Annual Scandinavian Midsummer Celebration. Maypole, dancing, kid’s activities, picnic, bonfire and music. More info: www. vasaparkil.com or call 630665-7866 E-mail: vasaparkil@yahoo.com or matthewe0607@comcast.net or cmhoidahl@gmail.com
Swedesburg 16 Jul 2016 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Swedish Heritage Society Midsummer Fest. Majstång with dancing, music and Swedish folk songs. More info www.facebook.com/ SwedesburgSwedishAmericanMuseum/ or email: swedish@iowatelecom.net or call 319-254-2317
Kansas Lindsborg 18 Jun 2016 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Midsummer’s Festival. May pole, Music, Scandinavian style food, Kubb, Folk Dancers, fun run, Arts & Crafts. More info www.midsummersfestival.com or www.visitlindsborg.com email: Info@MidsummersFestival.com or call 785-227-8687
Maine New Sweden 17 Jun 2016 – 19 Jun 2016 New Sweden Historical Society Midsommar Celebration. Maypole, Dancing, Fun and Food. More info Facebook: www.facebook.com/ NewSwedenHistoricalSociety or Email: kitkis5@yahoo.com or call 207-896-7909 or 207-896-3416
Maryland Carderock Park, MD 26 Jun 2016 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Midsummer Celebration hosted by ASA, Drott Lodge, and SWEA DC. Maypole, dancing, activities for children and Potluck dinner. For more info www.scandinavian-dc.org or www.swea.org/washingtondc or www. drott-lodge.org or email: gerry@schueman. com or washingtondc@swea.org
Massachusetts Newton 18 Jun 2016 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Midsummer Picnic hosted by Scandinavian Cultural Center & SACC-NE. Maypole, dancing and Picnic with all-you-can-eat smörgåsbord. For more info www.scandicenter.org. or www.sacc-ne.org or email: kerry@scandicenter.org or info@sacc-ne.org or 617-7951914 or 760-799-6333
Michigan Alaska, Grand Rapids 25 Jun 2016 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM SAHS/WM Midsummer Fest. Dancing around the maypole, music, food, games, Kubb game and Kubb demonstration and more. For info call 616-530-1842 or 616-458-0420 or www.sahswm.org or info@sahswm.org or cairener@sbcglobal.net Farmington Hills 18 Jun 2016 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Swedish Club of Metropolitan Detroit’s Midsummer Celebration. Breafast and Brunch. Dancing around the maypole, music, Swedish Pancakes. For more info www.swedishclub.net or Email: aviking85@gmail.com or call 248-478-2563.
Minnesota Bemidji 19 Jun 2016 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Bemidji A.S.I. Affilate 40th anniversary and celebration of Midsommar Fest! Decorating the Majstang. Procession, music, dancing and lunch. More info: Call 218-785-2368 or Email: Luckyswede2368@gmail.com Halma, Jupiter Township 22 Jun 2016 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM Agassiz Swedish Heritage Society celebrates Midsommar Fest with Maypole, Ringdance, Music and Smorgasbord. More info: Lyndon
feature. page 9
Johnson 218-843-2834 or Bryan Kays 612968-6323 or lyndon_johnson@Yahoo.com or kaysx005@umn.edu Minneapolis 18 Jun 2016 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Midsommar Celebration at American Swedish Institute. Sing and dance around the maypole, Traditional Midsummer fare, handcrafts, flower wreath making. For more info: www.asimn.org or Call 612-871-4907 Minnehaha Falls Park, Minneapolis 26 Jun 2016 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Scandinavian summer fest celebration by Svenskarnas Dag and Norway Day. Midsommar Loppet. Entertainment, Folk Dancing, Choruses, Maypole, singing, dancing and food, More info www.facebook.com/SvenskarnasDag/events?key=events&ref=page_ internal or teddiane@mac.com or 612-8258808 or 612-861-4793 Moorhead 24 Jun 2016 – 25 Jun 2016 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM The 38th Annual Scandinavian Hjemkomst & Annual Midwest Viking Festivals. Music, Food, Crafts & Dance, Scandinavian entertainment, Viking Village, children’s activities. More info www.NordicCultureClubs.org or www.hcscconline.org, email nordiccultureclubsoffice@gmail.com or call 218-2995452 or 218-299-5952 Nisswa 10 Jun 2016 7:00PM – 10:00 PM 11 Jun 2016 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 17th Annual Nisswa-stämman Scandinavian Folk Music Festival. 150 folk musicians performing, day-long dancing, dance instruction, a cultural children’s activity/performance tent, and great Scandinavian food. More info: www.nisswastamman.org email: nisswastamman@gmail.com or Call 218764-2994 Scandia 25 Jun 2016 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Gammelgården Museum Midsommar Dag Celebration. Majstång, dance, children’s activities & food. Info www.gammelgardenmuseum.org, email: museum@gammelgardenmuseum.org or 651-433-5053 Vining 25 Jun 2016 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM Leif Erikson, Sons of Norways Midsommar Celebration with Maypole, dancing, music and Potluck dinner. More Info Facebook: Leif Erikson, Sons of Norway, Vining MN, email: cbolsons@aol.com or 218-769-4296
Nebraska Oakland 3 Jun 2016 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM 4 Jun 2016 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM 5 Jun 2016 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Swedish Heritage Center’s Swedish Heritage festival. Scandinavian Dancers, Swedish food, Parade, Lego Dala Horse competition, Swedish Tractor pull etc. For more info www.facebook.com/pages/Swedish-Heritage-CenterOakland-Nebraska/316494311871854 or Email: tada@abbnebraska.com or Call 402-380-9458
Omaha 12 Jun 2016 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Scandinavian Midsummer Festival Omaha Committee. Annual Midsummer Celebration with maypole, crafts, Traditional Swedish music and dance. For more info www. omahamidsummer.wordpress.com/ Email: delstites@gmail.com or Call 402-830-6679 Stromsburg 17 Jun 2016 1:00 PM –1:00 AM 18 Jun 2016 7:00 AM –1:00 AM 19 Jun 2016 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Stromsburg 63rd Swedish Midsummer Festival. Traditional Swedish Cuisine, games, Viking Festival, Swedish Dancers and entertainment. For more info www.theswedishfestival.com, Email: theswedishfestival@ gmail.com or or charlesnoyd@gmail.com or Call 402-764-5265
New Jersey Vasa Park, Budd Lake, Hackettstown 25 Jun 2016 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Swedish Midsummer Celebration by Vasa New Jersey District 6. Scandinavian Vendors, Food, Maypole, Folkdancing, entertainment by Smorgasbandet and Ed Hendela. Musical entertainment, Children’s Activities. More info, see http://www.vasaorder.net/eventnj/ or www.vasaparknj.com or Email: laurenmaxx229@yahoo.com . For other districts and clubs of the Vasa Order of America, see www.vasorder.org
New York Throggs Neck, Bronx 18 Jun 2016 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM 75th Annual SWEDEN DAY – Midsommar celebration at Manhem Club. More info: www. swedendayny.com or email: Swedenday@ yahoo.com or Call Sweden Day 516-565-2091 Robert F. Wagner, Jr. Park, Battery Park City, New York 24 Jun 2016 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Swedish Midsummer Festival. Swedish delicacies, traditional music, folk dancing, decorating of May pole and wreath making. For more info www.bpcparks.org or www.swedenabroad.com Melville, Long Island, New York 4 June 2016 1:00 PM Swedish Midsummer by Vasa Lodge Lindbergh of Long Island. dancing around the “Majstång,” Live music, food, kids games. For more info email: dragspel@aol.com or www. vasanewyork.com or call 718-415-0602 Jamestown 15 Jul 2016 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM 16 Jul 2016 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 17 Jul 2016 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM 15th Annual Scandinavian Folk festival – Swedish Folk Dancers, Viking ship. Midsommar celebration on Saturday with maypole and ring dances. . More info: ww.scandinavianjamestown.org or email: dsandy@netsync.net or Call 716-665-0883
North Dakota
Utah
Buckstop Junction, Bismarck 21 Jun 2016 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Three Crowns Swedish-American Association will celebrate Midsommar Fest with Potluck dinner, majstång, Swedish Flickorna dancers and games for children. For more info call 701-258-1262 or email: dhswenson@msn.com.
Salt Lake City 25 Jun 2016 3:00 PM –7:30 PM Swedish Heritage Society of Utah annual Midsommar Fest. Music, dancing, traditional maypole and Smorgasbord. Info: www.swedishheritagesociety.com or Email: swedishheritage2@aol.com
Ohio Alum Creek, Lewis Center 25 Jun 2016 6:00 PM Scandinavian Club of Columbus, Ohio Nordic Midsummer fest. For more info www.scandiclub.com email: ScandiClubInfo@gmail.com
Oregon
Washington
Astoria 17 Jun 2016 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM 18 Jun 2016 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM 19 Jun 2016 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Scandinavian Midsummer Festival - Over 45 years of Festival. Midsummer pole, Scandinavian music, dance and theater groups, Scandinavian traditional handcrafts and food. For more info www.astoriascanfest.com
Saint Edward State Park, Kenmore 26 Jun 2016 11:00 AM– 6:00 PM Midsommar Fest by Skandia Folkdance Society, Majstång and Långdans, music, dancing, Hemslöjdsmarknad, food, craft and kids activities. Info www.skandia-folkdance.org, email: publicity@skandia-folkdance.org or call 425-954-5262
Pennsylvania Philadelphia 25 Jun 2016 4:00 PM –7:00 PM ASHM’s annual Midsommar Fest. Music, dancing, traditional maypole, Swedish food, games and more! Info: www.americanswedish.org, info@americanswedish.org or 215389-1776
South Dakota Vermillion 24 Jun 2016 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM Dalesburg Scandinavian Association Annual Midsommar celebration. Scandinavian smorgasbord, entertainment, arts and crafts, games, music, vikings, raising of the midsummer pole and ring dances. Info: www. dalesburg.org/midsommar-2016/ More info call 605-253-2575, Email: ron@dalesburg. org
South Carolina Columbia 4 Jun 2016 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM The Nordic Club Midsommar celebration. A traditional midsummer celebration. Info: http://www.resche.com/nordicclub/nordicclub_home_page.htm More info call 843324-8076 Email: wcui2@aol.com or nordicclubsc@gmail.com
Please send me ____ book(s) x $16.95 = _______ Incl. S&H (in continental U.S.) Total: _________
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Landgrove Inn, Landgrove 11 July 2016 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Nordic Harmoni’s annual Midsummer Festival. Mini Smorgasbord, wreath making, decorating of May pole, songs by the chorus. For more info call the Inn 802-824-6673 or CarlEric Westberg 802-824-6578 or email vartland@comcast.net
Oaks Park, Portland 11 Jun 2016 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Portland Midsummer festival. By Scandinavian Heritage Foundation and the League of Swedish Societies. Maypole, Scandinavian food and crafts, Music, Dancing and children’s activities, For more info www.scanheritage.org, email: shf@mindspring.com or call 503-977-0275.
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Vasa Park resort, Bellevue 19 Jun 2016 9:00 AM– 8:00 PM Midsummer Festival with Swedish pancake breakfast, dancing and old fashioned recreation, Swedish food. Info www.vasaparkresort.com, email: sawink@comcast.net or call 425-746-3260
Wisconsin Old World, Eagle 18 Jun 2016 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Midsummer Magic: Music, food, drinks, dancing and more. Info http://oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org/, email: friends@ friendsoww.org or call 262-594-2922. Old World, Eagle 19 Jun 2016 10:00 AM– 3:00 PM Swedish American Historical Society of Wiscons Midsummer celebration. Decorating and Raising of the Maypole, wreath making for Kids, Scandinavian Folk Dancers and Musicians. Info www.sahswi.org, email: swedishamericanhistoricalwisc@gmail.com or call 414-352-7890 or 262-781-6113. IKEA USA 24 Jun 2016 A Swedish Traditional Midsummer Smörgåsbord, US wide with all you can eat Buffet. Each store has different seatings. Call your local store for details. Some of the stores have live Swedish entertainment. www.ikea.com. No Celebration listed close to you? For continuous info from all the U.S., see events at www.nordstjernan.com. Also, find your local SWEA chapter by going to www.swea. org - almost every SWEA organization will celebrate this day.
SWEDE AMONG THE REDNECKS Loved by Rednecks, Bluenecks, Swedes and Americans: “..something any Swedish American will enjoy” … “A humorous look at Swedes and Swedishness” … “[written with] the gift of clarity, humor, Mail order form to: pathos, and joy” A book from NORDSTJERNAN P.O. Box 1710 Nordstjernan, also available on New Canaan CT 06840 Amazon. Or call 1.800.827.9333 A humorous collection of essays about growing up, reaching adulthood and maturity on two continents and in two separate cultures.
May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
The Pacific states. page 10
Muriel Beroza at 90
Friends celebrate the longevity of San Francisco Swedes’ grand dame and chronicler with many parties.
Ted Olsson, San Francisco ted@nordstjernan.com
Once again the Bay Area had a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a remarkable nonagenarian. It’s apparent by the number of parties in her honor, that at 90 years old, Muriel Nelson Beroza has touched the lives of many people. Readers of Nordstjernan will recognize her as a frequent contributor on Swedish history in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is also the author of two authoritative histories of our community: “Sveadal” and the more expansive “Golden Gate Swedes,” a scrupulously researched book of the people and organizations in our regional Swedish-American community.
SAPL Founders Day
Muriel has been feted at the Swedish American Patriotic League’s Founders Day, the Swedish Ladies Society, the Swedish Club of the San Francisco Bay Area and her local Vasa organization, Lindbergh Lodge. At the Founders Day event, Susan Bianucci spoke about her dear friend Muriel, explaining why she was being recognized on this day meant to honor not merely the original founders of Sveadal, but all those who have continued their work in preserving this historic site. While many who remembered the park’s early years were still alive, Muriel was inspired by Sveadal’s 50th anniversary to write a book about its first half century. After incredible research, she published “Sveadal” (1976) to coincide with and celebrate that occasion. The book became a local best seller among the Swedish community. Almost a quarter century later she published her masterpiece, “Golden Gate Swedes,” in 2000. This incorporated Sveadal but explored far further, describing the people, institutions and accomplishments of Swedes and their descendants throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
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Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
Muriel Beroza and Susan Bianucci in Sveadal for Muriel’s 90th birthday.
That same year she was honored by the Swedish Council of America with their highest award for achievement and promotion of local Swedish culture, SCA’s Award of Merit. At their semi-annual meeting and awards ceremony, held that year at the Swedish
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American Hall in San Francisco, she had prepared a slide show of Pioneer Swedes in the San Francisco Bay Area. When she was unable to present it herself that evening, Susan did so. Later, by popular demand, Muriel was able to show it at most of the Swedish clubs in the region. In 2010 during their first annual Swedish Bay Area Achievement Award gala, the Swedaish American Chamber of Commerce for San Francisco and the Silicon Valley (SACC-SF/SV) presented the Swedish American Hall Library and Archives Committee (SAH-LAC) with their “Most Original Cultural Achievement Award.” The committee at that time consisted of Muriel, Susan Bianucci (Chair), Astrid Olsson and the late Ulla Sabelström; now Linda Zalko has joined the committee. They are grateful that many of their sources followed Muriel’s dictum: “If you don’t write it down, it didn’t happen.”
Sveadal and Muriel’s history
At the birthday party in Sveadal, Muriel and her family greeted well over a hundred of her close friends from the Sveadal community. As guests gathered in the clubhouse for drinks and conversation, a slide show automatically recalled dozens of delightful photos from different periods in her life. Muriel’s parents, Anita and Gus Nelson, were beloved as grandparents within the
community. For many years the family camped at Sveadal, and in 1953 they signed a lease and built a cabin near the junction of the two creeks. They were Sveadal’s first resident winter caretakers from 1961-1971, familiar to children and adults alike. Their own two children, Ivar and Muriel, became iconic figures in Sveadal lore with their own families. As their families expanded, so did the cabin. Ivar had four children: Ken, Eric, Kathleen (“Poonie”) and Elise — all of whom have their own families and continue a long, important tradition for the upkeep of Sveadal. Muriel married Paul Beroza, a scientist, professor and entrepreneur. They had six children: Ann Marie, Barbara, Paula, Gregory, Paul Jr. and Carolina. Collectively the family was always admired as the brain trust of Sveadal. And now Muriel’s two sons, Greg and Paul, are Sveadal’s sentinels, with cabins at each end of Sveadal. As members of the family quipped in their tribute and as family pictures attested, Muriel is a mixture of Lauren Bacall and Einstein. She graduated from UC Berkeley as an epidemiologist, but her family kept her busy while they lived first in southern California and later in Arizona. So instead of pursuing her career, she pursued her interests. And wherever they resided, the family always made time to return to Sveadal in the summer. And like many, these summer sojourns bonded them with others in the community. Muriel was always interested in the natural world about her. She became fascinated with the botany of specialized plants adapted to the desert climate, and volunteered with many projects that protected these hardy survivors, educated the public and continued to learn. A special project was establishing the Sveadal nature trail with Fred Bianucci. During every Midsummer celebration, Fred now guides visitors on a history walk around the grounds, including notable remarks on the flora and fauna.
The books
It was the heartland of Sveadal — both the natural and human communities — that intrigued and impelled Muriel to collect the history of that special spot in her first book, “Sveadal.” I remember when she was interviewing each of the cabin owners, such as my folks and relatives. She was learning everyone’s traditions, the history of the cabins and the local clubs, and even today she is pursuing new projects on the community of Sveadal. It was her next challenge, though, that was truly remarkable. In the writing of “The Golden Gate Swedes,” the research was formidable because sources were so scattered. The photos that she discovered and published made the history come to life, and now her study of the clubs and people that comprise the community allow contemporary Swedes and Swedish-Americans to appreciate their part in a long and distinguished history.
The Pacific states. page 11
Muriel’s birthday party
It was special for all of us in her Sveadal family to salute her on this special occasion. The entertainment by folk fiddlers Jeanne Sawyer and Anders Holtsberg provided the nostalgic atmosphere for the occasion, and the open bar and delicious catered luncheon whet the appetite for more about Muriel. Her son, Gregory, was master of ceremonies during the short program. One of the highlights was a framed tribute presented by generations of nephews and nieces. As her grandniece Ingrid read aloud, she touched gently and humorously on Muriel’s long history of accomplishments:
children and to all who join our community. You have been a particularly important mentor for me. Your example inspired me to exercise the “printers ink” that runs in the blood of my heritage. For you challenged me and others with the truism, “If it ain’t printed, it never happened.” So, now that the family’s Vestkusten Swedish newspaper has been laid to rest, I have tried to continue to record in Nordstjernan, with its national readership, the happenings in the San Francisco Bay Area among Swedes and Swedish-Americans, so that our history is not lost.
right e h T
415.552.5300 Tone@ScandiaTravelSFO.com www.ScandiaTravelSFO.com
Välkommen till
Until you researched and recorded Our history had no glory. You wrote two books about us Swedes And now we know our story.
Söndag 5 juni kl 11.00
Nationaldagsfirande
Happy Birthday, dear sweet Lum! You are a youthful soul! So everybody raise your glass It’s time to holler … To which the whole room responded on cue with “Skål”!
med familjegudstjänst och lunch.
Tisdag 14 juni kl 18.30
Enkel veckomässa i Taizéton
Lördag 25 juni kl 11.00
Midsommarfirande
i Svenska kyrkan tillsammans med SACC-LA och SWEA LA. Mer info följer Onsdagar kl. 19-21: Kyrkokören övar Fredagar, kl. 11-13: Öppna förskolan
This brought Muriel to the microphone. She reminded everyone she was born a month before the League purchased Sveadal on April 26, 1926, so she has always regarded this spot as her wonderful birthday present, one she has been thrilled to share with others. In typical modesty and humility, she thanked everyone for celebrating this milestone with her, for as she looked out upon all our faces, she knew each one of us.
Mer information och senaste nytt om alla våra aktiviteter på vår Facebook- och hemsida!
Svenska kyrkan, Los Angeles 1035 South Beacon Street, San Pedro, CA 90731 Tel. 310-832-6800 • Epost: losangeles@svenskakyrkan.se Hemsida: www.svenskakyrkan.se/losangeles På facebook heter vi “Svenska kyrkan i Los Angeles”
Välkommen till
A tribute of thanks Thank you, indeed, Muriel, for teaching us all our own history. I never open your book without being astounded anew at all the research behind your writing. How you assembled all this knowledge through interviews and archives attests to your persistence, and I have seen your huge file cabinet holding all that research. More importantly, your book is something that could not be written today because so many of the eye-witnesses are no longer here to interview. Your remarkable research and loving retelling of this tale, has not merely bound us all more tightly together but has made us aware of how much we owe to so many who came before. By showing us our heritage, you have also taught us how to enrich the legacy that we must pass on to our
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öndag 12 juni kl 11.00
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Church of Sweden at Norwegian Seamen’s Church 2454 Hyde Street, San Francisco • Tel: 415-632-8504 Mer information: www.svenskakyrkan.se/sanfrancisco
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May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
local events. page 12
Executive Women’s Conference The 15th annual Executive Women’s Conference held on May 5 at PwC’s Manhattan headquarters was a huge success. More than 140 women, including 50 who flew in from Sweden, gathered in PricewaterhouseCooper’s beautiful auditorium where a distinguished group of speakers, panelists and moderators addressed this year’s theme: Is there a Future for the Future?
Dala Horses and much more!
A SWEDISH AFFAIR
After a warm welcome by PwC Global Middle Market Leader Henrik Steinbrecher, the chamber’s president and conference founder, Renée Lundholm, made opening remarks. She briefly spoke about the history of the EWC, observing that it was a great testament to its stature among business leaders that seven previous speakers were in the audience. “This is both a conference and a network,” she said. “My greatest pleasure as the founder is to see the business ties and personal bonds that have formed over the years.” It was also fitting, given the current focus on the U.S. presidential elections, that two of the keynote speakers are leading voices within their respective political parties. SACC-New York was very proud to welcome Anna Kinberg Batra, the Leader of Sweden’s Moderate Party, and Anna Throne-Holst, a democratic candidate for
the U.S. Congress from New York to the EWC stage. Finally, the 11th annual Mentor Award was presented to Carl Bennet, chairman & CEO, Carl Bennet AB, for his longstanding encouragement of women in business. He traveled all the way from Stockholm to be at the conference in New York City. The conference wrapped up at the Swedish Residence, where all attendees were welcomed by Consul General Leif Pagrotsky for a networking reception. For more info, see www.saccny.org Clockwise, from top, right: Renée Lundholm, president, SACC-NY and Henrik Steinbrecher, global middle market leader, PwC; Linda Björk, master of ceremonies, CEO, Björk Business; Carl Bennet, chairman & CEO, Carl Bennet AB.
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feature. page 13 perspectives.
Olle Wijkström olle.wijkstrom@nordstjernan.com
..och körsbärsblom. Forna tiders bondbröllop var en angelägenhet för hela bygden. I varenda gård spekulerades det. Hur många får rum i storrummet? Långbordet räcker inte till så många. Kommer bruden klädd i siden? Blir klänningen lång? Tänker hon ha blommor i håret? Kommer Svante i Sagersta att vara med och spela på sitt pianodragspel? Tänker Elof i granngården skjuta av raketer och smällare som attraktion och minne? De flesta visste sedan det lyste om bröllopet i kyrkan att Jenny i Hagalund blivit anlitad att göra korv till festen. Många hade hört att Jenny nu var i full färd att framställa godsaker. Färsk nyupptagen potatis med dillkvistar från trädgårdslanden skulle förstås serveras. Skinkor, mjölkkorv, kluvna ägg med ansjovis, rödbetssallad och nässelsoppa. Kanske också någon kokt röding inköpt från fiskhandlaren i Askersund. Till efterrätt givetvis gräddtårta med hallonsylt. Tårta i minst tre våningar var beställd. Diverse drycker till gäster som inte var godtemplare hade köpts in för tre veckor sedan. Lättöl, pommac, pilsner och starköl. Därtill givetvis Skåne samt konjak eller likörer. Drycker med främmande namn. Fru Von Nilsonne från Sagersta var inbjuden. Hon hade tidigare varit utomlands på charterresa så hon visste hur det skulle gå till i finare sammanhang. Folk i trakten samlades förväntansfullt utanför gården där bröllopet ägde rum. Av sorlet, hurraropen, sången och skålandet kunde alla gissa sig till när det var dags att ropa ”BRUDPARET UT”. Det var nämligen tradition förr att även de som inte var inbjudna till bröllopet skulle få ett
Bondbrudar ... tillfälle att se och hurra för de nygifta. Efter det att folket utanför bröllopsgården ropat ”BRUDPARET UT” några gånger steg de nygifta ut på förstutrappan. Blev betittade och mottog hyllningarna. I mina minnen från ungdomsåren träder fortfarande bilder fram över de festliga bondbröllop jag upplevde. Varför berättar jag om detta nu? Jag tror inte det finns några riktiga bondbröllop längre. De flesta som gifter sig bor inte på landet. De bor i tvårummare i Vansbro, Hallsberg eller annan tärort. Inte heller gifter de sig med stora kalas med inbjuden präst. Det går behändigare att hyra en vigselförrättare och gifta sig hemma hos någon av de nu numera frånskilda föräldrarna Förklaringen är körsbärsblommen. Av någon oförklarlig anledning förbinder jag bondbröllop med körsbärsblomning. Någonting blommande och doftande. Översvallande vit blommning. Gädje och fest. Samma stämning upplevde jag i går ute på vårt sommarhus på Torö. I varenda trägård blommade körsbärsträden. Kompakt fladdrande vithet. Doftande miljö. Ängar översållade av vitsippor. Sädesärlor och småfåglar som svirrade och gav upphov till något slags behagfullt ackompanjemang till hela tillställningen. Dotter Lotta påstod sig även hört göken hoa borta i dungarna bakom Alices stuga. Hur som helst gick mina tankar till det längesen gångna bondbröllopet på Knottorp och blomning av körsbärsträd. Associationerna bara kommer. Varför finns ingen anledning att grubbla över.
“ Olle Wijkströms nyutkomna och rikt illustrerade bok - Min Historia - handlar om hans minnen och möten med alla slags folk från tre kontinenter. Boken innehåller stämningar och möten. Stamhövdingar, presidenter och vanligt folk. Boken kan beställas och betalas via Nordstjernan”
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local events. page 14
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Sunday June 26, 2016 Breakfast available 9.00 a.m. - 11.00 a.m. Raising of the Maypole, ring dancing at 12:00 noon. Food, games, swimming, stage program, folk dancing, Scandinavian vendors. Dance to the music of Västkustens Spelmanslag
Children 5-12 years $2.00
www.vasapark.org Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
sports. page 15
Sweden’s ‘culture club’ suits its trainer
Players and staff from Östersunds FK soccer club perform a dance routine as part of their annual project. Chipp Reid, Sports Editor chipp@nordstjernan.com
It is a chilly Sunday evening in northern Sweden and Graham Potter and his players are preparing for one final performance. The Solihull-born manager has recently celebrated winning his third promotion in five years with Östersunds FK, taking the team from the doldrums of Swedish football to the top flight for the first time in their history. Such is the buzz Potter and his club have created in Östersund — dubbed the Winter City by its 60,000 inhabitants — that hundreds trying to catch one last glimpse of their team this season are being turned away at the gates. The venue is not Östersunds’ Jämtkraft Arena, however; it’s a theatre. There, Potter and his promotion winning heroes are waiting in the wings to put on a production of modern dance, set to music from Swan Lake. “If all we do is play football, it’s something the players are comfortable doing,” said Potter, the morning after receiving a standing ovation from a sold out, 428-strong auditorium. “If you want to develop them as people, you have to have those uncomfortable experiences. “It’s part of our values, trying to help them become better people — exposing them to things they haven’t done before. As a team, if we all understand that, then we can help each other,” Potter said. “On the pitch, you’re not always confident but you have to get through the tough periods.” Östersund is football’s culture club. Alongside training and matches, every season the club completes an artistic project chosen by chairman Daniel Lindberg. It could be performing a play, writing a book or holding an art exhibition. Coaches and choreographers
are flown in to lead workshops. Everyone my wife’s business and our family, it was mucks in — from the chairman to the kitman bordering on insanity, I guess! But it was also — and on Sunday, both Kindberg and Potter believing in the project. To make it all happen performed dance solos followed by a rousing has made me very proud.” rendition of The Drifters’ Saturday Night at the The odds were stacked against Potter sucMovies by Scottish coach Billy Reid. ceeding in the Jämtland region of Sweden “The project gets announced in January where skiing, not soccer, is the staple sport. and everybody thinks, ‘Oh my god, what are Östersund was only founded on October 31, we doing?’” said Potter, a former England 1996, five days after Potter was a substitute Under 21 defender. “People get more in Southampton’s 6-3 victory over Manand more into it and come the chester United; and when Potter night of the show. It’s always arrived, the fourth division “If all we do a great feeling. You have to club was lucky to get crowds pinch yourself. Last night of 500. Situated some 347 is play football, it’s we were dancing to Swan miles north of Stockholm, something the players it proved difficult to attract Lake.” Every project is differplayers, too. are comfortable ent, Potter said. “Last year, “The challenge we have is doing...” everybody had to produce location,” said Potter. “It is a a piece of art. We did a video plane ride up from the south. It’s piece — an interpretation of ‘somelike we’re up in Inverness! We have thing stupid.’ It sounds daft, but we had one of to be creative looking for players that maybe the boys dressed up as a mummy, playing ball need to prove something.” against me! (The previous year) everybody Like many small clubs, Östersund funds wrote a piece on their journey to the club, itself, in part, by luring up-and-coming playwhich was published.” ers to Jämtland and reaping the benefits of Potter’s own journey from running the foot- lucrative transfer fees. “We picked up Modou ball program at Leeds Metropolitan University Barrow from Varberg in our league and sold to one of just seven English managers working him to Swansea,” Potter said. “We’ve done a in a European top division would fill a fair few similar thing every year, getting players in and pages. A right back with Stoke, Southampton selling them to a higher level.” It is a formula and West Brom in the 1990s, he hung up his which is working. Players have been sourced boots at age 30 in 2005 to move into higher from Comoros, Nigeria and even England, education. While studying for a degree in with goals from former York trainee Jamie leadership and emotional intelligence, Potter Hopcutt propelling Östersund up the leagues. was put in touch with Östersunds by former As well as throwing themselves into the teammate Graeme Jones (now assistant man- cultural projects, the players hold book clubs, ager at Everton) and four years ago took the read to school children and play football leap of faith in Scandinavia. with refugees. The town has taken the club “When I look back, I almost think, ‘What to its heart, to the extent that players have was I doing?’” said the 40-year-old Östersund been bought milkshakes in cafes. Its on-field manager. “When I consider giving up my job, success has also helped. Östersund is in the
Östersund’s Solihull, England-born manager Graeme Potter.
middle of the Allsvenskan pack with 14 points from nine games. “In the last few games, we’ve had 6,500 at the ground,” said Potter. “In terms of inspiring the youth it’s massive, because all of a sudden there is a possibility to play football. They can watch Malmö, IFK Göteborg, AIK in their own town and it’s really exciting.” For Östersund FK to be mentioned in the same breath as these clubs is testament to Sweden’s latest English import, and Potter is already playing down comparisons with Roy Hodgson, who revolutionised Swedish football in the 1970s. “I’m just doing my little bit up here,” Potter said. Given his astonishing career to date, there is no reason he cannot emulate the England manager in Sweden’s top tier. After all, for Potter, no stage is too daunting.
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May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
Photo: Photo: Niclas Larsson/Bildbyrån
ÖFK assistant coach Billy Reid belts out Saturday Night at the Movies by The Drifters during the ÖSK cutural performance.
Photo: Kate Gabor/kungahuset.se
dashboard. page 16
New York, NY and Philadelphia, PA
Fashion designer Gudrun Sjödén was in the Northeast for the release of of a new collection and the book on her life, “My Portfolio.” The Greene Street flagship store in SoHo has quickly become a meeting spot for Sjödén customers from all over the U.S., and Gudrun herself was there for a book signing event on May 6. The next day she was recognized with the Great Achievement Award as guest of honor at the annual Spring Ting Dinner at the American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia. Above, Gudrun Sjödén at the booksigning; with a faithful customer in Philadelphia and with, from L-R: Sandra Pfaff, Gudrun herself, ASHM Executive Director Tracey Beck and ASHM board member Leonard Busby.
Justin Timberlake with Måns Zelmerlöw at the recent Eurovision song contest finale. Photo: Andres Putting (EBU)
Samuelsson brings breakfast to Harlem Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, Sweden’s most famous culinary export of the moment, has been spending a lot of time in his second home, New York. After opening his fifth restaurant, Red Rooster, in the Big Apple six years ago (he has more than 10 others in Sweden, Bermuda and Chicago), he’s been busy on reality cooking shows, writing cookbooks and memoirs, winning awards and managing his restaurants. This week, he hosted a breakfast party and cooking demonstration for 1st–3rd graders at East Harlem Scholar Academy in Harlem, which is near Red Rooster. Samuelsson worked with the students, discussing the sweet and tart ingredients and teaching them to make quick-fix healthy breakfast kabobs (mini whole wheat pancakes, strawberries and bananas) with yogurt, honey and berries. “It’s fun to teach what you taste and engage with the kids,” Samuelsson said. The breakfast party was part of the No Kid Hungry program.
Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
Stockholm, Sweden
Prince Carl Philip turned 37 on May 13. He and Princess Sofia took the opportunity of the special day to offer thanks for the outpouring of love and support at the birth of their son, Prince Alexander, born on April 19. The first official photos of the new family were released with their gratitude. “For my wife and me, this is a great day full of emotion,” Carl Philip said following the birth of the baby, their first, who is fifth in line to the Swedish throne. The palace announced that both Princess Sofia, 31, and her new son were in good health. According to tradition, the King held a cabinet meeting per Chapter 5, Section 3 of the Constitution, and publicly announced the title, name, first name and dukedom of the new royal baby a day later: He is HRH Prince Alexander Erik Hubertus Bertil, Duke of Södermanland. His given name is Alexander.
dashboard. page 17
Among the rednecks ...
“I bought three copies, one for my sister-in-law, one for me that the dogs ate, and one to replace the one eaten by the dogs. A great read!” Could it be true? Is this why “Swede Among The Rednecks” has become such a bestseller? Do dogs actually devour the book as well? When we received this comment on Facebook we simply had to inquire with the reader. Sure enough, the image above, courtesy of Jerry Nelson was all the confirmation we needed. (Yes, the book is available on Amazon, print and Kindle) Entertainment
Washington DC
Prime Minister Stefan Löfven and President Obama in the Oval Office during the U.S.-Nordic Summit on May 13, 2016. President Obama was hosting a summit and state dinner for Nordic leaders on May 13. Prime Ministers of Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Iceland, and the President of Finland were meeting with President Obama with the goal of deepening U.S.-Nordic cooperation over America’s continued commitment to European security, trans-Atlantic trade and the promotion of common democratic values. Photo Tomas Enqvist/Embassy of Sweden
Swedish director to work for Netflix
Netflix is still looking for Swedish projects both for domestic and international audiences. In a recent podcast with Kristian Luuk, “TV Med Luuk,” actor and director Felix Herngren (The Hundred Year Old Man, Solsidan TV series) revealed that he is working on a project for Netflix. “I cannot go into what it is, but it will be shown in 190 countries. It is nailed down,” he says in the podcast. “We have not started filming it yet. It is great fun, but it’s not a drama series. I can’t go into it really.”
När en politiker säger att “vi sitter i samma båt” så var på din vakt, det betyder att det är du som skall ro. [When a politician says “we’re all in the same boat” be on your guard; it means you’ll do all the rowing.] — Swedish author Vilhelm Moberg (1898-1973)
Herngren would like to do more international work. In an interview in daily Aftonbladet he said, “In Sweden, you are limited to Swedish actors and there are so incredibly many good actors and comedians abroad. So it would be like a dream to do it and show work to a wider audience.” “I think that in five years or earlier there will be a completely different market than today. It really favours those of us that make television programs. We are in constant contact with Amazon, Netflix and HBO.”
Original Swedish
Artwork by BJ Wagner
Herr & Fru | Mr. & Mrs. Felix Herngren, above, the successful actor and director of Swedish TV series Solsidan and the movie The Hundred Year Old Man is working on a secret project for Netflix.
“Hygien is important!”
“Cleanliness is to “You also have to “That’s it, now I feel show respect for think about your like a brand new others.” reputation.” human being.”
‘Name’s days’ of the Swedish Calendar: /Kommande två veckors namnsdagar
In New York In Stockholm In Kiruna Lund In Los Angeles
May 30: Sunrise 5.27 a.m. 3.45 a.m. over the horizon 4.32 a.m. 5.44 a.m.
Sunset 8.20 p.m. 9.45 p.m. 9.36 p.m. 7.59 p.m.
June 01 Gun/Gunnel June 02 Rutger/Roger June 03 Ingemar/Gudmar June 04 Solbritt/Solveig June 05 Bo June 06 Gustav/Gösta June 07 Robert/Robin June 08 Eivor/Majvor June 09 Börje/Birger June 10 Svante/Boris June 11 Bertil/Berthold June 12 Eskil June 13 Aina/Aino June 14 Håkan/Hakon June 15 Margit/Margot June 16 Axel/Axelina
T-Shirts & Bags Woodenware Gifts Prints Custom Paintings Cups & Tiles
www.swedishkurbits 630-443-4086
Traditional summer festival June 17th - 19th
For more info see: New Sweden Historical Society on facebook May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
feature. page 18
A Swedish smörgåstårta - a Scandinavian treat composed like a sandwich - can be made in as many ways as there are chefs, ingredients and of course, inspiration.
HOST COUNTRY: ICELAND
DENMARK | FINLAND | NORWAY | SAAMILAND | SWEDEN
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GENEVA’S MIDSOMMAR FESTIVAL JUNE 21 – 26
How Swede it is! Come fest at one of the Best of the West – Swedish Days, Geneva’s Midsommar Festival! The whole family will enjoy fabulous food, carnival rides, live music & entertainment nightly, plus Sweden Väst, our tent that’s everything Swedish. Visit www.genevachamber.com for a complete event schedule, or call us at 630-232-6060. Summer fun doesn’t get any swëder than this!
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feature. page 19
on both sides. Mix chopped sides of torte. Press shredded lettuce on Swedish Smörgåstårta margarine hard boiled eggs with about 2½ tablespoons all sides. Decorate with cucumber slices,
White and wheat bread (square sandwich type). Cut crusts from bread. Begin by laying 4 slices white bread flat on platter with edges touching, spread with margarine (important, this prevents bread from becoming soggy). 1st layer: Mix chopped smoked ham with about 2½ tablespoons mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon sour cream. You need enough to just hold the ham together. Spread on bread. 2nd layer: Use wheat bread, spread with
mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon sour cream. Spread on bread. 3rd layer: Use white bread, spread with margarine, both sides. Cover bread with shredded lettuce, top with baby shrimp. Cover with wheat bread, but only spread margarine on bread that faces down over shrimp. Frosting: Mix together mayo and sour cream (3-1). Make enough to cover top and
radishes, shrimp, cherry tomatoes and hard boiled eggs. Overlap veggies as you go making rows the length of the torte. Refrigerate 24 hours. Enjoy! The recipe was submitted by Carole Ann Sell, proud member of VOA Norden Lodge #684 in California, right.
Bellevue, WA
SCANDINAVIAN SUMMER FEST Scandinavian Summer Fest is happening on June 26, 2016, at Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis. Norway Day and Svenskarnas Dag have a long tradition of holding separate events but after last year’s success these two groups are working together to bring the best of both and make an even bigger and better ethnic celebration for the Norwegians and Swedes and the Scandinavian community. The day at Minnehaha Park begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. and includes a morning worship service, a children’s parade, singing and dancing around the Midsummer Pole, traditional Scandinavian foods and treats, vendors and crafts, musical entertainment, dancers and performers all afternoon with a queen coronation as the finale. Earl: 612.861.4793 • Ted: 612.825.8808 • Dan: 612.724.6236
Mark the 26th of June on your calendar. Join in the fun of Scandinavian Summer Fest at Minnehaha Park at 48th and Minnehaha Parkway in South Minneapolis.
May 30, 2016 Nordstjernan
feature. page 20
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Kurbits painters have more fun
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Nordstjernan, May 30, 2016
Artist BJ Wagner works on a kurbits painting in her Princeton, Illinois studio.
“It’s so much fun, it’s dressed up and festive. It’s a celebration!” This isn’t a description of a typical Swedish midsummar festival (though it could definitely apply) but of the traditional Swedish folk art painting, called kurbits. After a lifetime of making art of all kinds, BJ Wagner especially loves painting folk art, a passion that began at a young age when her grandfather brought her family a Dala horse from Sweden. When she started painting in the Norwegian rosemaling style, “the Swedish side of the family pulled out all these posters in the Swedish kurbits style,” she said. It was the first time Wagner had heard of it. She was thrilled and inspired. “What distinguishes Swedish kurbits from Norwegian rosemaling is mainly the flowers. In rosemaling, the flowers are distinguishable, but in kurbits, the flowers are more unique and creative, and they often include ribbons.” She is also drawn to all the color in kurbits, making it cheerful and a joy to paint. “I think the Swedish art is more fun, it has rhythm, and characters liven it up.” Wagner is currently working on a kurbits mural, her favorite thing to paint, in which characters tell the story of a farmer bringing a cow to town. “All the traditional kurbits paintings tell stories. There are often people in them, dressed up and festive, celebrating an occasion such as a wedding, playing music and dancing.” The name kurbits comes from the Bible story in which God offers Jonah a large “cucurbita,” or gourd (eucurbitam), to protect him from the hot sun in the desert. Swedish writer Erik Axel Karlfeldt referenced it in his poem “Hösthorn” in 1927, because the shapes in these painting were reminiscent of the gourds, also thought of as cucumbers, effectively naming the art style that had already been prevalent in central Sweden for a century. It was most popular from
1720 to 1870, particularly in Dalarna. Today, many artists in Sweden are still actively painting in the kurbits style and it remains a very strong trademark, used by companies showing products of Dalarna, like Dalahorses, clogs, welcome signs and more. Wagner took classes to learn the very special brush strokes required for the particular technique in kurbits painting. The brush strokes — all variations on circles and the letters c and s — have been important in her understanding of folk painting, and in learning the freedom that comes when inspiration hits. “We were inspired by other artists’ flowers before us but were encouraged to create our own style of flowers and designs, to never copy another flower. It’s always been that way — and that’s why there are so many kinds of flowers and images in kurbits paintings. You might find the same flower repeated by an artist because sometimes it has become that artist’s trademark.” Wagner is semi-retired now, but one thing she continues to do is paint folk art — and Swedish kurbits, whenever she can. Her work is available online and in the upper Midwest, but what she wants most do is paint a kurbits kitchen. “I love to be 10- or 20-feet up in the air! I would go anywhere in the U.S. (or Sweden!) to paint a kurbits kitchen. Furniture, too.” What are you waiting for? Find her at www. swedishkurbits.com Amanda Olson Robison
the vasa star vasastjärnan
Spring 2016 Publication of The Vasa Order of America
Sweden’s favorite sign of spring, the wood anemone (vitsippa). It’s finally here, inviting everyone to enjoy a host of spring opportunities, activities and events across Swedish America, shared throughout this issue of the Vasa Star.
The Grand Master’s Message CA; our own Golden Gate #12 held in Visalia, CA; Arizona #21 in Prescott, AZ; and Lake Michigan #8 held in Frankenmuth, MI. It is always great to renew our friendships with the members of the different Districts. It is also interesting to observe how each District is just a little different in how things are done. Not that they don’t adhere to the Constitution or follow the rituals, but besides having different levels of formality there is of course also different business to attend to. Some have a Vasa Park that requires attention and many have scholarship programs, where the winners are introduced and the awards are presented, often at a concluding banquet. The next Grand Lodge Convention is Dear Vasa Brothers and Sisters, coming up. Well, it’s still two years away, By the time you read this, we will have attended four District Conventions: Pa- but action is required for Districts that cific Southwest #15 in Woodland Hills, hold their Conventions in even years.
Over the last few weeks, GS Joan, PGM If you do, it’s time to elect your Grand Lodge Delegate(s) this year. Delegate Eric, Birgitta and I have been taking information has to be submitted to inventory of printed material that has the Grand Secretary no later than four been in storage. Of particular interest months prior to the Convention. That are a number of 100 Year Vasa Books. means the information has to reach GS These Centennial Books were likely Joan by the end of February 2018. It printed 1998 or 1999, though there is is critical that you elect delegates who unfortunately no print date to be found are willing and able to run for Grand in the book. These books are of “coffee table book” Lodge positions. All GL positions are filled by delegates and current officers. quality and should be on every Vasa Positions to consider include Treasurer, member’s coffee table. The Centennial Vice Grand Secretary and the members of Books tell the story of the Vasa Order of the Executive Board for all five regions. America from the institution in 1896 and Some appointed positions including all the way through its 100th year in 1996. Grand Lodge Deputies are often filled You will find stories from every District by Delegates as well. While this is not Lodge and from many Local Lodges. We mandated, the incoming Grand Master, are now selling them for a bargain $20 who makes these appointments, will get each, including shipping in the U.S. For delivery to Canada or Sweden, the to know the delegates pretty well during the Convention. price is $50 to cover /continued on p5
Archive News
Trip of a Lifetime
Archivist Kathy Cuff had a busy winter and opened the Archives in Bishop Hill for the season on April 1. She also became a Vasa lodge member and is ready to take her talk on the road. / p3
Grand Lodge News
The new Vice Grand Secretary and the new Grand Lodge Cultural Director introduce themselves and explain how our Order was important in the lives of Swedish immigrants when they arrived. / p5
On special assignment was Executive Board Member for Canada, Fae Doty, who spent time in Southeast Asia with her husband, Lee, and wrote an account of her once-in-a-lifetime trip. / p8
Local Lodge News
This seems to be a year of milestone anniversaries. Parties and celebrations are happening in lodges all over the country, often with special events, dinners and visits from the GM Tore Kellgren. / p9
archive news » p3 grand lodge news » p4 district lodge news » p7 local lodge news » 9 swedish news » p16 in memoriam » p14
the vasa star / Spring 2016
editor’s Message
issue highlights
Spring has finally come, as seen in the beautiful photo of vitsippa on the previous page. Spring, and specifically as I write this today, May 12, brings with it the birthday of Vasa’s namesake, King Gustav I Vasa of Sweden, whose 520th birthday is today. He was born in 1496 and is known as the Father of Sweden, the one who laid the foundation of a more efficient government for modern Sweden. Spring is perfect timing for us, the staff of the Amanda Olson Robison Vasa Star, to renew our efforts of producing an efficient and effective newspaper for the modern Vasa Order – for all our readers, old and new, royal and otherwise! (And as many of you know, Swedish royalty DOES know about the Vasa Order and reads the Vasa Star!) To that end, we are planning some minor changes, small improvements that may be both easier for submitting information as well as more appealing to read: Simply, we hope to receive more digital PHOTOS to highlight recent
Deadlines for The Vasa Star
events and TEXTS to advertise the activities you’ve got coming up! As Grand Master Tore Kellgren encourages us to host interesting events so we “don’t be boring” and do what we can to grow membership, we should share those interesting events here in the Vasa Star. You can read the Grand Master’s message in English on page 1 (or test your Swedish on page 15). My curiosity was piqued when I read Karen Snowberg’s article on page 6. I intended to write a little about the origins of my own family name, but it’s likely that the story of the name Olsson – like many Swedish surnames - starts and stops with the fact that one of my ancestors was the son of Ole. However, all of my forebears came from Sweden and found other Swedes and Swedish Americans to marry, so I may have an interesting story about one of them to share another time. Maybe you’ll also be inspired to share the history of your family’s Swedish name, or even host a genealogy event. If you do, please share it with us! Tack så mycket, amanda olson robison vasaeditor@gmail.com
How to submit Photos to the Vasa Star Occasionally photos are submitted to Vasa Star that are not usable, and you’re disappointed when your photo isn’t used. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Summer Deadline » September 1 Fall Deadline » November 1
t t t
• Picture and article, 200 words or less. • For Letters to the Editor column, 150 words or less. • Please send pictures of good quality in order for them to reproduce well in The Vasa Star • For submitted lodge articles, please add city and state. Thanks! IN MEMORIAM » Please read instructions on how to send and pay for Obituaries.
Vice Grand Secretary Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise of Rhode Island. / p5
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.
New Diana Birger Jarl member Christopher Barslund Mårtensson receives the Vasa pin from his mother. / p9
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
An evening of magic with the sisters of Höganäs No. 634. / p16 The Swedish Newspaper of 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. Now available digitally at www.nordstjernan.com - Digital Issues (including one year of back copies with the Vasa Star) Kenneth T. Jackson, Professor of History at Columbia University and Editor-in-chief, The Encyclopedia of New York City, said it best: “Over the past century and a half, more newspapers were published in New York than in any other city in the world, in large part because of the huge foreign-born community and the variety of publications that the different ethnic groups spawned. Most had a brief and almost ephemeral life, but Nordstjernan has been remarkable for its long life and high quality. It not only helped Swedish immigrants adjust to life in a new world and a giant city, but it set a standard that other newspapers worked hard to emulate.”
www.nordstjernan.com • 1.800.827.9333 ext. 12
the vasa star Spring 2015 Vol. 107, No. 2, Serial 849 Published by The Vasa Order of America www.vasaorder.com HEADQUARTERS Grand Secretary / Joan Graham 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 526 5512 vasajlg@aol.com Grand Master / Tore Kellgren 5971 W. Walbrook Drive San Jose, CA 95129 Phone: (408) 996 1970 | (408) 505 6623 gmtore@kellgren.org Editor / Amanda Olson Robison
Managing Editor / Liza Ekstrand
Family Tree Släktutredningar
Remember the Vasa Archives
I am a member of the Vasa Order in Sweden and an expert in Swedish genealogy. Over the years I have helped many Vasa members to find their roots in Sweden. If you want my help to find your Swedish ancestors, please email me for further information: swedengen@telia.com
when you are making a memorial donation Send your donations to: Vasa National Archives PO Box 101, Bishop Hill, IL 61419
Donate to the Education & Scholarship Funds Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America, Joan Graham, Grand Secretary 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804
Send articles, photos & memorials to: The Vasa Star PO Box 13331 Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 vasaeditor@gmail.com Circulation Manager / Joan Graham 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 526 5512 circulationvasastar@gmail.com Send address changes and bottom section of application for new members to Joan Graham. Membership Chairman / Bruce Elfvin 3231 E. Overlook Road Cleveland Heights, OH 44118-2434 bruce@ekrtlaw.com Advertising Call 1.800.827.9333, ask for Vasa Star rates vasaeditor@gmail.com
Layout & production: Nordstjernan, Swedish News, Inc.
page 2
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Spring 2016 / the vasa star
Archives News Spring has sprung in Bishop Hill H e l l o V a s a M e mb e r s ,
Spring has finally arrived in Bishop Hill. The shops, museums and restaurants in town have opened for their summer hours and visitors arrive in increasing numbers. We celebrated Spring Jubilee on April 2 with an Opening Reception for the new exhibits which were praised by all our visitors. Considering we held the reception later in the day and had 4560 mph winds all day, we had a great turn-out. We posted pictures of the exhibit opening on Facebook at VASA Archives, Bishop Hill. We have eight more events planned this season and expect continued success this summer. With the office space and the main collection areas straightened up, we turn our focus to the collections stored in the basement and the attic. The basement storage area has not been organized and there is no listing of what is down there. We are proceeding with a box-by-box survey of what is there and looking for any
water damage, mold or other problems. The results will be added to our database facilitating retrieval of requested items. The next big project will be removing items from the attic. Attics, barns, storage buildings, and other areas are common places to put items. Most of these areas generally lack climate controls and insect monitors. Fortunately, the attic on the archives has screens covering the windows so there probably won’t be much of an insect problem. Our concern is the potential for mold on collections, which is easily removed and taken care of. Our goal is to spend at least one day a week working on these projects so that we can also get our administrative work done. We now have a volunteer helping us on Tuesdays and you are more than welcomed to join us. Recently I went to the Jubileum Lodge #755’s Spring Jubilee meeting in Madison, WI.
We provided a brief talk about Bishop Hill and the Midsomthe Vasa National Archives. If you would like m a r M u s i c for me to provide a talk to your lodge, let me Festival. The know. I can travel to you or perhaps come up music festival will be in the with something online. By the time you read this we will have had Bishop Hill our Valborg bonfire and Wiener Roast. The park and fika neighborhood was adding to the bonfire and will be a block we had quite a good-sized brush pile to burn away in the Kathy Cuff, Vasa Archivist this year. On June 7 we are hosting Swedish Archives. We musicians, Hans Wilhelm and Birgitta. The will be offering tea and cookies for fika and time has yet to be announced, but we will a make-and-take clay sculpture station for let you know as soon as we find out. We’re children. hoping for nice weather so they can perform If you have any questions about the coloutside. They have four other venues selected lections or the archives, feel free to contact in the Chicago area and in Chesterton, Indiana. me at VasaArchivist@gmail.com or at 309Contact James Nelson at jamespnelson@msn. 927-3898. com for more information. Their websites are barokoko.se and wilhelmochbirgitta.n.nu. I n T ruth an d U nity , June 18 is our Midsommar Respite during K athy C uff , CA V asa A r c hi v ist
A Message from the President of Vasa National Archives and exhibits, and many members expressed an interest in taking a road trip to visit the Archives The Archives in Bishop Hill reopened April and the other historical sites in the area. Kathy is 1 for the 2016 season. Archivist Kathy and eager to give programs such as this to all local Archives Board Member Sten Hult and his and district lodges. Those of you not located wife, Nancy, were there to greet many visitors within a reasonable driving distance will need that weekend. Kathy has been busy working to offer her alternative paid transportation, and in the Archives, getting acclimated to the quiet she would be an exciting presenter at one of winter in the small community and making your District Conventions. friends throughout the village. Her winter As you know, one of our goals is making the work included learning about the Vasa Order, Archives accessible to members and others researching and reviewing the condition of all who may never actually visit Bishop Hill, and items in the Archives and planning exhibits and we’re not alone. Even museums such as the programs. She will expound on future exhibits Metropolitan Museum of Art, which employs on Facebook, vasaarchivist, bishop hill, in her hundreds of curators, graduate students and articles in the Vasa Star and in person. technical support staff, is experiencing this Kathy made her first visit to a local lodge, Ju- challenge. We have but one Archivist to help bileum No. 755, to share news on the Archives, us move forward but we have confidence we Bishop Hill and her plans for the future. The will succeed. group was excited to learn about the programs In the future Kathy will share our collecDear Vasa Brothers and Sisters,
tion policies with all of you. The Archives is interested in items pertinent to the history of our Order and the immigration of Swedish people to the United States as well as valuable artifacts, art, books and periodicals. As we age it becomes important for us to review what we own, store and display. Are you storing your things safely? Who best will benefit and cherish your precious items when you are no longer able to? How long do you really want to store and keep track of these things? Our members and lodges are aging too, making it urgent that we all review personal collections and items related to the history of the Vasa Order before they’re lost. You may be the only person who can explain and describe items you have, where you received them and their importance to you. Please contact Kathy or me with your questions. We can safely store, care for and display your items properly.
Thank you for the support you have given and continue to give me as I serve the Order in leadership roles. My wife, Sheila and I Bill Lundquist wish you success as you begin your busy year of District Conventions. Please continue to remember the Vasa National Archives in your deliberations or as you conduct your personal financial planning. We will thankfully accept monetary gifts as we continue to work to rebuild the Archives Endowment Fund. I n T ruth an d U nity , B ill L un d quist , P resi d ent V asa N ational A r c hi v es
wanted:
photos & text! As we lay the foundation for an increasingly interesting newspaper for readers old and new, we are asking that you please send:
PHOTOS (of past events): your high-resolution digital photographs from great lodge events of the previous few months, including captions. TEXTS (of future events): brief information about programs, lectures, theme parties and other great lodge events you’ve got coming up in the next few months The Vasa Star is published four times a year in Swedish America’s only newspaper, Nordstjernan. The deadline for submitting assets to the Vasa Star may change slightly, giving contributors more time closer to each issue’s publication date; see page 2 for dates. As always, please send as much information as you can electronically, to vasaeditor@gmail.com. Our snail mail address is PO Box 13331, Milwaukee, WI 53213-0331
WWW.VASAORDER.COM
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the vasa star / Spring 2016
New Members On behalf of the Grand Lodge and members of the Vasa Order of America, I am pleased to welcome you to membership in these local Vasa lodges. If you are new to the Vasa Order, we bid you welcome. If you are transferring or are a dual member, your new lodge bids you welcome. We hope you will enjoy your membership and will participate in all of the activities planned for you. Bruce Elfvin, Grand Lodge Membership Chairman
3231 E. Overlook Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118-2434, bruce@ekrtlaw.com
DL CONNECTICUT NO. 1 Kronan Lodge No. 2 Ann Rudolf Jan M. Schneider Diana Birger Jarl No. 3 Christopher Mårtensson DL MASSACHUSETTS NO. 2 Ingeborg Lodge No. 66 Erik Provost Nordic Lodge No. 611 Christine A. Bilodeau Adam K. Chiancola Brian K. Chiancola Anna Lisa Gotschlich JoAnn Hester Suzanne Fields Steinbach DL NEW YORK NO. 4 Tegner Lodge No. 109 Roger E. Benson Jamie S. Cooke Kati Maria Cooke Ellen Hillander Nicolas S. La Vare Robert Alton Lindberg Olympic Lodge No. 235 David Antonson Jane Antonson DL NEW JERSEY NO. 6 Arlington Lodge No. 62 Jeanne Andersen Joseph Bailey Sonja Jean Bensen Robert E. Bruin Ashley Kim Eevardi Diane Nordstrom Eriksson Walter Eriksson Sarah Haines William Hardy Catherine Kastning Kevin Richard Krause Marjorie McClelland Todd Alan McClelland Jonathon Joseph Melancon Allison Nething Michelle Norrman Eric Ponczek Lillian C. Spallone Barry Seifert Chad R. Widman Tara Widman Frithiof Lodge No. 63 Kristine Edwards Peter B. Skolsky Virginia Arlynne (Illig) Skolsky Felicity Louise Solberg Fritz Arthur Solberg Linne Lodge No. 429 Lars Jay Kronberg Virginia Rapp William K. Rapp John F. Rasmussen
New Members—Sweden District Lodge No 20 Kärnan No 608 Barbro Nilsson, Ingemar Nilsson, Eva Tullberg, Roland Magnusson Christian No 617 Kenneth Larsson, Inger Erlandsson
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Gothiod Lodge No. 486 Robert James Burek Michael Louis Ferenc Christy Kitta Lyckan Lodge No. 507 Laureen Lynne Anderson Nickolaus G. Anderson Three Crowns Lodge No. 704 Carole Veronica Basinski Heather Ann Beeson-Mazzone Anita Karin Berger Jance Ann Denzler Kristina Megan Denzler William Carl Denzler Chris George Mazzone Lindsey Ann Ryan Bjorn Sandhaaland Dorothy Jean Tureson Eric W. Tureson Ethan C. Tureson Lloyd William Tureson Dalahäst Lodge No. 742 Lillian Anne Nemcik DL LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8 Linne Lodge No. 153 Bethany Kemble Bessemer Lodge No. 203 Layla Grace Gershon Viljan Lodge No. 349 Marilyn Kay Overgaard Thomas Lawrence Wright Wendy Lundeen Wright Linde Lodge No. 492 Sophie Elizabeth Andersson Mary Hahn DL PENNSYLVANIA NO. 9 Nobel-Monitor Lodge No. 130 Fawn Rosina O’Hara Svea Lodge No. 296 Martha Sandstrom Stickner Drott Lodge No. 168 Ann N. Black Shalonda Brockington Virginia Cain Joseph R. Coelho Lydia Claire Custer Timothy R. Holland Victoria Smith Howard Marit R. Knollmueller Kristen Peterson Leedom Maxine McCarrick-Randolph Linda Olson Peter Olson Susan Remmert Lara Ring William Ring Keith Shoemaker Wendy Shoemaker DL GOLDEN GATE NO. 12 Tegner Lodge No. 149 Therese Mary Brewitz
Småland No 618 Ann-Karin Staaf, Evert Staaf Calmare Nyckel No 628 Cristopher Dywik, Ronneby No 630 Hermine Plantin
Olivia Siobhan Simms Susan Carol Simms Svea Lodge No. 348 Birgitta Ackley Carolyn Fedor-Thurman Karen Christianna Jenvey Ean Montoya Framät Lodge No. 405 Arvalea Jane Nelson Sveaborg Lodge No. 449 Linda S. Keilch Sharon Klein Lindbergh Lodge No. 494 Lynne Eloise Bramlett Marsha Dawn Brashear Gina Peterson Theodore Alan Peterson Dianne P. Wiklander Robert Anton Wiklander Frida Maria Rebecka Willis Linnea Lodge No. 504 Sven G. Ericsson Dianne Lisa Provenzano Norden Lodge No. 684 Charla Erica Castro Dennis Donnelly Bo Gunnar Hammarling Aaron David Holt Christin E. Holt Rebecca Elisabeth Holt Kenneth O’Rand Audre J. Smith Skogen Lodge No. 700 Thomas D. Courtemarche Diana L. Kelly Elly Q. Nystrom Jerry P. Nystrom Janice M. Portukalian Bonnie A. Richards Wayne E. Richards DL PACIFIC NORTHWEST NO. 13 North Star Lodge No. 145 Eric Noel Bowles Mirjam Ingrid Bowles Lensa A. Etana Ingo Helena Janke Ingrid Elisabeth Julagay Frank Allan White Mary Vincent White Nobel Lodge No. 184 Samantha Mary Baker Richard A. Easton Astor Lodge No. 215 Ashley Obryant Denele M. Sweet Megan E. Sweet Raymond V. Utterback Skogsblomman Lodge No. 378 Thomas W. McKown Aurora Shiloh Newcomb Olympia Lodge No. 550 Hanna Maria Bränström Diane Marie Riggen Yvonne Marie Svasand DL PACIFIC SOUTHWEST NO. 15 North Star Lodge No. 106 Tara Rae Pitts Skandia Lodge No. 249 Marie Ibsen
Tomelilla No 631 Gull-Mari Nilsson, Anna-Karin Lembke, Inga-Lill Norlin, Leif Norlin Nybyggarna No 698 Lena Linde, Leif Linde, Britt-Marie Elvirson, Kerstin Engle, Sven-Arne Engle
Jillian Marie Risigari-Gai Viking Lodge No. 256 Daryl Thomas Borisenko Melinda Lee Borisenko Ann Kristine Hellgren Evening Star Lodge No. 426 Myra G. Posert Mayflower Lodge No. 445 Erik Staffan Eklund Maj-Lena Kristina Eklund Gun Olsson Fagin Joseph Fagin Cheryl M. Johnson Al A. Suero Monal Ingegars Suero Gunilla Windon Golden Valley Lodge No. 616 Britt Inger Anderson Thomas Bernard Anderson Hailey Stuart Carlson Kent James Carlson Lisa Michelle Eklund Cheryl B. Haggerty Elisabit Perez Christina Poe Carolyn Sophia Schultz Inger V. Stephens Tiffany Christina Storch Laila Larsson Weitz Mark Joey Weitz Scandinavian Lodge No. 667 Jean Ellen Johnson Desert Viking Lodge No. 682 Lennea Deyo Sharon Seraphin Heitman David Kantar Farhad Kiani Chris McGowan Emily McGowan Phalyn Lunstrum Monica Weisbart Jennifer R. Weisbart-Moreno Claudia Wikman David Stig Wikman Jacob Thomas Wikman Rachel May-Britt Wikman Thomas Stig Wikman Mary Wright Oak Leaf Lodge No. 685 Jason Aaron Blohm Brian Keith Compton Eva D. Hilborn Howard B. Hilborn Bengt Johansson Gina Johansson Ji Hye (Kim) Jonsson Marcus Daniel Jonsson John R. O’Leary Madeleine Ann Person Tal C. Ross Talese S. Shertzeh Annukka Thoren Nils Thoren Flower P. Vandervelde-Person Glenn T. Seaborg Lodge No. 719 Cathy Ann Thielen Kern River Lodge No. 763 (new lodge, instituted 12/30/15) Jennifer Dewey Mark Dewey Laila Jensen
Lisa Lawson Jens Mikkelsen Keri Mikkelsen Kevin Mikkelsen Natalie Mikkelsen Rebecca Mikkelsen Justin Reynolds Tallie Reynolds Alexander Santana Brandon Santana Jessica Santana Kayla Santana DL IOWA-NEBRASKA NO. 17 Omaha Lodge No. 330 Gerald L. Anderson Sharon Lee Bennet Doris Elaine Kummer Dennis Elwood Olsen Eleanor Lorraine Rosenquist Norrskenet Lodge No. 331 Richard Warren Lindblom Jenny Susan Rudberg Ted L. Rudberg DL ARIZONA NO. 21 Phoenix Lodge No. 677 Wendy May (Hurley) Cook Lilliana Mae Hermosillo Priscilla Jane Lewin Sophie L. Martinez Tarja Jaana Nummela Diane Lynn Schneider Deja Marie Taggart Barrett Morris Westberg Emily Joy Noelle Wood Phyllis Louise Zubick Tucson Lodge No. 691 Rebecca Block Emelie Eliszbet Cooper Phyllis A. Gracy Kimberly K. King Niklas Osterman Solstad Lodge No. 709 Caisa I. Dragland Evelyn Anne Laws Karin Olsen Scandia Lodge No. 728 Gary Glen Anderson Joan Anderson Jan Beam Hanna Hollander Barbara Ann Jacobsen John D. Sandeen Mary Ellen Sandeen CENTRAL REGION Facklan Lodge No. 248 Eric A. Markham Annika Elaine Messmer Ann L. Nelson Carl XVI Gustaf Lodge No. 716 Maureen Karen Baricelli Carl Widen Lodge No. 743 Boone Stevenson Denton Kathy Alayne Denton
Klockan No 747 Maj-Britt Wittusen Blå Jungfrun No 749 Lena Isaksson, Lars Isaksson, Britt Johansson, Anders Johansson, Ronald Adolfsson, Solveig Sjöberg
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Spring 2016 / the vasa star
Grand lodge news The Grand Master’s Message (continued)
Remember the Vasa Archives
Donate to the Education & Scholarship Funds
when you are making a memorial donation
Send your donations to: shipping. This is your Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America Vasa National Archives opportunity to get one Joan Graham, Grand Secretary of these keepsake books. PO Box 101 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804 For delivery in the USA Bishop Hill, IL 61419 or Canada send your check $20 (USA) or $50 US (Canada) payable to This has been my mantra for a while develop a program around it. Work with VOA to GS Joan (see address elsewhere and will continue to be so. Your Lodge your District Cultural Leader and share in Vasa Star under the heading “The should have a Membership Chairman, ideas between Lodges. The Internet is Vasa Star”) with a note saying you want though this is not the only person in a vast source of information on Sweda Centennial Book. We will send it to the charge of membership retention and ish and other Nordic countries’ culture address on the check unless noted to send recruitment - YOU ALL ARE! By re- and heritage. Work with your Lodge to other address. For delivery in Sweden, taining your members and getting new members. It is every member’s job to please contact me for method of payment. members, your Lodge can grow and make the meetings attractive to current Be sure to send address The Education Stamp fundraiser this thrive. For this to happen, an exciting and future members. ONE new member changes to year will be in August. It has been a Lodge Meeting is essential. Don’t be is all I ask from each one of you. Keep circulationvasastar@gmail.com good fundraiser for many years and I am boring! The competition for your cur- your current members! It bears repeating: convinced it will continue to be so. I urge rent and prospective members’ time Don’t be boring! you to donate to continue supporting our is stiff. You have to have food at your scholarship programs. meetings and put on programs that en- in truth and unity, MEMBERSHIP CONTINUES TO BE gage. Cultural Leaders, I challenge all of tore kellgren, grand master OUR NUMBER ONE CHALLENGE. you to research an exciting subject and
Moving?
Vice Grand Secretary of Vasa Order of America Players production of The Sound of MuI am Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise. I sic, in which I was Maria and he was Rolf. was born in Rhode Island and have lived We were married in 1991 - July 20 will here all my life. I lived in Warwick grow- be our 25th wedding anniversary! ing up, where I enjoyed playing sports. I became a member of Vasa after BevIn high school I played field hockey, bas- erly Jernquist Cianfarani asked if my son, ketball, volleyball and softball. Playing Jon-Erik, could join the Vasa Children’s sports helped me learn to work together group. We got him to join, then she said, with others to achieve a common goal. “It would be very nice if Jon-Erik could This interest led me to the University of say his parents were Vasa members too!” Rhode Island where I received my Bach- So we joined! In Rhode Island DL #3, I elor of Science in Health and Physical am the Chairman of Quahog Lodge #725 Education with a minor in Biology as and I belong to Star Lodge #56. During well as my Master’s of Science in Physi- the time I was District Master (2009cal Education. 2011) I sold beads as a fundraiser for the I worked as a teacher in Physical Edu- district. I called them “Swede Beads” and cation for 34 years in Warwick, RI and I they were in the shape of the Swedish loved it! I am also a lifetime Girl Scout flag. They raised a good deal of money who worked at Camp Hoffman Girl for the district. Scout Camp during college summers. On Thursdays from late April until midThis helped me practice for my teaching October I work at Little Rhody Vasa Park degree and I made friends for life. in Foster, RI with a number of others. I am a 31-year member of the Scandi- We do maintenance outside and inside navian Women’s Chorus of Rhode Island the building. Last fall was the 50th anand the American Union of Swedish niversary of the park and we celebrated Singers. - it was a great time! I was elected to the I met my husband during a the Warwick position of Vice Grand Secretary at the Greetings to all of you!
Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise, VGS
last Grand Lodge Convention and am on the constitution committee. You can come to me for ordering books, jewelry and supplies.
Thank you for your confidence in me! In Generosity, Truth and Unity, Lee-Ann Anderson Hurtubise
Do you have a question for the Grand Lodge? Ever wonder why or how or when…? Send your questions about anything Vasa-related to vasajlg@aol.com and then watch for the FAQ Column in The Vasa Star. WWW.VASAORDER.COM
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the vasa star / Spring 2016
Heritage and Acculturation and The Vasa Order are vacationing here, but the majority are actually people who live here and aren’t able to speak English or do not wish to do so. It amazes me that some of my neighbors have lived here for 20 years or more and are only able to speak a little English. Years ago, acculturation occurred more slowly in rural areas than it did in the cities. My father told me that although he was born in this country, When I was a young student, I was told his family only spoke Swedish at home that the United States was the “Melting when he was growing up. He was raised Pot of Nations.” People had come here just outside a small, rural town in northern from countries all around the world to live Wisconsin, where many people in the area and work together to form a great nation. were Swedish and the acculturation process In the process, they had to learn to speak moved very slowly. Consequently, when he English and to conform to American ways began school at age 6, the teacher had to and customs. This process is known as acassign a boy to sit next to him to help him culturation. When my grandparents came to this coun- learn English because he had never spoken try at the end of the 1800s, it was with great a word of it before. My mother, on the other hand, was born pride that they learned English and worked and raised in Minneapolis. Although her hard to become citizens. My grandparents mother occasionally spoke Swedish at home, were proud to become Americans, and even the family used English normally. By the as a young student, I was equally proud time my parents married and were raising of being a second-generation Swedish us kids, the only time they spoke Swedish American. was when they wanted to keep a secret Living as I do near New York City, I hear from us. I think that was the general trend a wealth of languages being spoken all in many families. around me. I realize some of these people
During the Great Swedish Migration of 1879-1900, people may have been drawn to others from their country, however, they helped each other make the transition to the new culture. The Vasa Order was formed at this time, and it helped with the acculturation process. In the minutes of my home lodge, Freja #100 of White Plains, New York, there are indications they even offered English classes. However, this was not quite as important as the role the lodge played in providing a social outlet for Swedish Americans and, equally importantly, a means of providing insurance for health and death benefits.
offer Swedish lessons, and social events are more desired by their members than formal lodge meetings. About eight years ago, the future of our lodge was in jeopardy. Membership had dwindled and we really didn’t have enough people to cover all the positions needed to run the lodge. Some people took on two leadership positions, and there were many meetings where we did not have a quorum. When I took over as chairman, I thought it certainly couldn’t hurt to try an experiment in streamlining the meetings. Over the course of just a few years, more and more people gradually started attending our meetings. Eight years ago, average attendance was 6 to 10 people; this past season Vasa evolves to preserve our average attendance was 20 to 30. We’re culture and traditions headed in the right direction! With assimilation and acculturation came By making the meetings less formal, our a renewed interest in Swedish history and members have had more time to socialize culture as children and grandchildren of im- and to become not just friends, but family. migrants sought to preserve some traditions Our members very genuinely care for each of their ancestral homeland. The Vasa Order other. We are aunts, uncles, grandparents was joined by other newly established his- to the younger members and they are like torical societies, museums and foundations. nieces, nephews and grandchildren to us. It was this dynamic that historian Marcus Many of us do not have relatives in the area Hansen observed in his own generation, and it is a great source of comfort to have and which prompted his famous axiom, such a group of caring people in our lives. “What the son wishes to forget, the grandson The word “unity” in our motto has never wishes to remember” (The Problem of the meant so much before. Third Generation Immigrant, 1938). More than 100 years after The Vasa Order in truth and unity, was founded, the needs of our members have karen snowberg,glcd - usa & canada changed considerably. Now many lodges
Grand Lodge Cultural Director for Canada and the United States on Öland where there was more work. Eventually two brothers from the Karlskoga area and two sisters from Degerhamn immigrated to the United States, met other Swedes to marry, and started families in this country. There are not many Snowbergs in the world, and it is The name may tell you I am of Swedish descent. (A my understanding that I am related to all of them! Since name can be a misleading definer of heritage, however - joining the Vasa Order it’s been my good fortune to travel for example, my partner’s last name is Nelson, which is to Sweden 10 times and I’ve met many relatives there. a common Scandinavian name, but his ancestors are from How exciting it was to share my love of music with some Russia.) I’ve always been intrigued to learn someone’s of my relatives, as well as to exchange mystery books name and to try to guess what country their ancestors and craft ideas with several of my cousins. And all the came from. Sometimes it’s fairly obvious, but not always. wonderful recipes we’ve shared! Snowberg has often been mistaken for German and JewFinding out more about my family was a logical first ish instead of Swedish. step to take in learning about my own “Swedishness.” I Both my parents came from the same family line as hope you, too, are intrigued and you are investigating they were second cousins. Our family surname was actu- your family name. ally Snöberg, but the spelling was Americanized when our relatives first came to this country from Karlskoga in truth and unity, and then Degerhamn, Sweden. I am proud to be a blond, karen snowberg, glcd – usa & canada blue-eyed, 100% Swedish woman. Aside from being a proud Swedish American, I have About the same time I joined the Vasa Order, I also roots in the Midwest and graduated from a Norwegian became interested in genealogy. I was fortunate to have Lutheran college in Iowa. I was an instrumental music a retired relative from Huskvarna undertake the task of teacher and am now a specialist in the performance of tracing our family tree in Sweden. It was a thrill to meet Renaissance and Baroque music as well as a Lutheran him and receive a copy of his research. My brother and church choir director. I’ve worked for the past 26 years I also made a trip to Karlskoga where we met a historian for a small marketing research company owned by my who was able to take us to Snöbergshult, the place from partner Ron. We tried to retire this past year, but it didn’t which our family took its name. There wasn’t a snowy take! I love doing historical research, knit, crochet and mountain in sight, but we were told that in old Swedish read. And, as my friends will attest, I love to cook and “snöberg” meant “bad land” as the land in this area would bake. not support farming. The men of our family were alum miners, charcoal producers and lumbermen, and when the Karen mines began to fail, the miners migrated to Degerhamn greetings to vasa members near and far!
I’d like to introduce myself to you - my name is Karen Snowberg, and I am your new Grand Lodge Cultural Director for Canada and the United States.
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Karen Snowberg
WWW.VASAORDER.COM
Spring 2016 / the vasa star
Spring time in Sweden Spring – what a beautiful time of the year! Taking a walk in the woods in Småland on sunny spring day is very special. Nature is full of interesting things. The birds sing and the first flowers have woken up after a long winter. To the left below is blue anemone, also called hepatica or liverleaf, and to the right wood anemone also called windflower. In May-June we can admire the beautiful lily-of-thevalley. It is the province flower of Gästrikland. Last year this flower was also on the Vasa stamp. I do hope many Vasa members use the stamps on their letters. Greetings from Jönköping, Sweden! maureen bengtsson GL cultural director –sweden
Moving? Be sure to send address changes to circulationvasastar@gmail.com
District lodge news Connecticut No. 1
It was a beautiful day for the annual Christmas in the Village Celebration on Main Street (Vasa Park Rd.) in South Meriden, Connecticut. It started with a Jul parade, and Tomte Linda (District Master Linda Johnson Steinmiller), Tomte Joe (Park Board Chairman PDM Joseph O’Leary) and a couple of tomtar helpers manned the booth, passing out Swedish delights (refreshments). Many people stopped for the dopp and others were curious about the Vasa Order of America. Perhaps we picked up some new members!
Pacific Southwest No. 15 Thirteen Lodges sent Delegates to DLPSW No 15’s Convention at the Hilton Hotel in Woodland Hills, California. After registration on February 26, there was a seminar on Swedish Nobility by the District’s Cultural Leader Nancy Kingston. This was followed by another seminar, “Nordic Vision Travelogue” by PDM Birgitta Roodsari. In the evening Golden Valley Lodge No 616 held a very nice reception for “their” District Master Bertil Winther. There was plenty to eat and drink for happy members. The next day opened with registration for late comers, and a good part of the morning was spent in meetings and special introductions that included Grand Master Tore Kellgren WWW.VASAORDER.COM
Front Row, left to right: Lori Wennbo, Auditor; Inga Francis, Chaplain; Haakan Spaberg, Vice District Master; Linda Kosvic, Ass’t Secretary; Peter Lindgren, District Master; Bertil Winther, Past District Master; Valerie Larson, EBM; Susan Premo, Grand Lodge Deputy; Ann Hellgren, Trustee. Back Row, left to right: Gunlog Spaberg, Trustee; Russel Almquist, Trustee; Ernie Mauritson, Auditor; Delphine Trowbridge, Secretary; Anita Hedlund, Inner Guard; Nathaniel Walker, Outer Guard; Nancy Kingston, Cultural Leader; Carol Kerr, Ass’t Master of Ceremonies; Maidie Karling, Master of Ceremonies; Lisa Dackow ; Kristine Hofve, EBM. Photo by Joan Johnson
and his wife Birgitta. One resolution, which failed, was presented. Otherwise most of the time was taken up by nominations. Three officers of the four top offices retired which left a bit of a tumult. The nominating committee had worked hard to fill the positions before the Convention but only so much can be done if nobody is willing to step up. DT Bob Solt retired after 21 years in the Office and received the honorable title Honorary Life Member of District 15. New District Master Peter Lindgren and his mostly new staff are wished all the best for the coming year. The
Grand Lodge Deputy Susan Premo and District Master Bertil Winther conducted the ceremonies at District 15’s Joint Installation.
evening offered a nice banquet arships and drawing of popular raffle items. and dancing. The main events on Sunday was the Memorial Service by It was a good weekend and we are already DC Maidie Karling and Vasa Choir led by looking forward to 2017’s Convention. LeRoy Anderson. This was followed by the submitted by nel solt always enjoyable Sunday lunch with schol- dlpsw no 15 page 7
district lodge news
the vasa star / Spring 2016
A Trip of a lifetime
Angkor Wat.
Fae Doty on an elephant ride.
Grand Lodge Executive Board Member the old U.S. airbase for Canada, Fae Doty, and her husband, there. “China Beach” Lee, recently returned from a 5-week trip is now called “Holiday to Southeast Asia – Vietnam, Cambodia, Beach” and is lined Thailand and Singapore. This is Fae’s ac- with hotels and high count of the trip. end resorts and golf courses. Buddhism is Halong Bay at Sunrise. Planning started two years earlier and the the major religion and tour company was invaluable in finalizing as in the other countries we visited, shrines the itinerary. The trip was a private tour with and temples are ubiquitous. guides and drivers, which was surprisingly Then off to Ho Chi Minh, also called Saigon affordable and maximized our time in a safe even today, where we visited the Cu Chi tunand comfortable way. nels, an ingenious complex of tunnels in the We flew from Canada to Singapore, then jungle up to 35 feet deep from which the Viet continued on to Hanoi arriving on the eve of Cong fought. Camouflaged, it was almost Tet, the Vietnamese New Year and the major impossible to see the openings to these or holiday season of the year. Staying in the old the man traps that were set. This would quarter, we enjoyed the sights and sounds of have been a truly terrifying battleground for this vibrant city. Motor scooters rule the road U.S. soldiers. We visited the war remnants and there are thousands of them to be dodged museum, which provides various accounts by pedestrians. Vietnamese throughout the of the war and a collection of captured milicountry want “fresh” so markets abound and tary hardware. There is very little residual people shop for vegetables, fish and meat on resentment of the U.S. and we saw many a daily basis. Americans touring. In Hanoi we took in a performance of waThen it was off to Siem Reap in Cambodia ter puppets, a traditional art form only seen where we visited Angkor and the various there. A highlight was an overnight boat trip temples there, most dating to about 1000 AD. on Halong Bay, a 3- or 4-hour drive from This is a huge area with many temples built Hanoi. This 600 square mile bay, a UNESCO over several hundred years. Hinduism kind of world heritage site, contains 1900 limestone morphed into Buddhism over the centuries so islands called karsts, many of which have one sees symbols from both religions. Many caves eroded in them. The karsts are like of the temples in the area have been badly vegetated pillars, about 50-300 feet high, damaged, not so much by war but rather by and are amazing. the encroachment of the jungle, and many We flew south to Hue, Da Nang and Hoi have been or are being restored. Another An in the center of Vietnam, the home of world heritage site and another highlight of ancient civilizations and ruins, kings and the our trip. seat of government until 1945. It was also We visited Lake Tonle Sap, a huge flood the demarcation between north and south plain on the Mekong River. When we were Vietnam and a major battleground during there, the lake was very low, probably 3- to the American War. We saw U.S. bunkers 5-feet deep, and contracted in area to perhaps from the 1960s on the road into Da Nang and 1000 square miles (during the rainy season it
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can be 50 feet deep and 6000 square miles). We visited a floating village with houses, stores, schools and churches all on floating pontoons. Perhaps the most poignant memories of Cambodia are the stories our guide told of life during the Pol Pot regime. Pol Pot was an evil dictator who slaughtered two million of his countrymen - one quarter of the population of Cambodia - before he was ejected in 1979 by Vietnam. Our guide talked of being put to work in the fields as a young boy, living on whatever he and his family could find, hiding in a ditch when the liberation came and of becoming a Buddhist monk in order to get an education. We flew to Bangkok, which is a huge, crowded city but with an abundance of temples and shrines. The main obstacle is getting anywhere in traffic. After a couple days, we flew to Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. This is a smaller, old city that is a center for harvesting teak. Naturally occurring teak was almost obliterated and illegal to cut so teak is now is grown on plantations. Elephants had been used in the harvesting of natural teak but found themselves out of work, so we visited an elephant training center where we saw the amazing things these strong animals can do, and where we took a one-hour ride through the jungle and down the Ping River on them. It was an absolutely fabulous day and certainly a highlight. Our last stop in Thailand was Phuket. We planned a few days at a beach resort to re-
charge and it was a good thing we did – the previous four weeks, while great, were pretty hectic and very tiring, particularly given that for most of the trip both the temperature and the humidity were close to 100. Finally we spent a couple days in Singapore, the opposite of the other places we visited. It is a very clean, expensive and well organized city. The public works there (roadways, tunnels, cable cars, gardens, buildings, etc) are absolutely spectacular. Although there are over six million people in a very small area, there is a lot of undeveloped land, and parks and flowers abound. It is now also the most expensive city in which to live in the world. We had an amazing trip, probably once in a lifetime. Besides the awesome things we saw and did, our main memory is of the people we encountered. Generally they are very poor by western standards but they are very happy. They are by and large very gentle and thoughtful people who value their families and relationships. Attention to service in hotels, airports and attractions was generally much higher than you would find in North America, particularly, if like us, you have grey hair. The food was very good, though after five weeks we both craved a North American menu. We always felt safe and the tour company we used was honest, ethical, dependable and affordable. Suffice it to say, it was fantastic. If anyone would like information or contacts, feel free to contact me. submitted by fae doty
WWW.VASAORDER.COM
local lodge news
Spring 2016 / the vasa star
local lodge news Diana Birger Jarl No. 3
new haven, ct / Our meeting on Febru- ing a member of the National Honor Society ary 27 saw the initiation of 18-year-old and three hours of rowing practice six days Christopher Mårten Barslund Mårtensson. a week as team captain at Norwalk River Maryann O’Leary, Chair and VDM DL1 Rowing Association not a lot of time reassisted by Past Chair Paul Ljunggren, mains for other activities. He graduates this initiated Christopher. The new member is summer and will begin the CSB program at an honors student at Center for Global Stud- Lehigh University in the fall. ies at the Brian McMahon High School in Our new member - who we hear makes Norwalk, Connecticut. his own Swedish pancakes at home - gave School and crew takes up most of the time thumbs up for Paul Ljunggren’s classic for this bilingual young man who competes pea soup recipe and the accompanying at regattas every weekend during April and pancakes. May. With the tutoring that comes with be-
submitted by joe o’leary
Christopher Mårtensson is initiated at the February meeting of Diana Birger Jarl. Maryann O’Leary and Paul Ljunggren officiating.
Tegner No. 109
scotia , ny / We celebrated our 109th anniversary and the installation of eight new members in February. We also reinstated one former member and mourned the death of Carolyn Hekenham. Carolyn (3/20/1945 - 2/17/2016) was a long-time Tegner member, and we will miss her. The Lodge’s semi-annual Swedish-American Pancake fundraiser is scheduled for May 15, always a great event.
Tegner No. 109 installation
submitted by anna karlsson
Fylgia No. 119 san francisco, ca / Our lodge sponsors the cooking classes for Vasa District No. 12, so in February Vicki Peterson from Nordic House taught us how to make semlor, the delightful Swedish pastry enjoyed during Lent. In March, Cecilia Froberg, originally from Skåne, taught us her family’s recipe for kåldomar, or cabbage rolls. April brought two opportunities to infuse vodka with spices and fruit to create “aquavit”! (Those who have the competitive urge are encouraged to enter their aquavit in the International Aquavit Competition at Sweden Day Celebration at Sveadal in June.) April also
brought an open house and tour of the SwedishAmerican Hall in San Francisco - which is the Pretty kåldolmar in frying pan home for Fylgia - and along with food and beverages, a presentation of the history of the Hall and its meaning to the local Swedish American population. In May we gather at Nordic House to create gravad lax. submitted by dianne dahlberg
Kåldolmar being prepared by happy members (L-R) Bob Olson, Chris Olson, Cecilia Froberg, Katherine Lipscomb and a partial Chuck Lipscomb. / Inset on top: Semlor for dessert.
Thule No. 127 and a dessert. More dinners are being jamestown, ny / Spring is here, and we are seeing the rebirth of flowers and planned for the year, along with movie trees, and the beginning of our 109th nights and workshops. We meet at our year. We met in March for the opening lodge, located at 4123 Pancake Hill in meeting of the year, and John Sipos, Bemus Point, and welcomes visitors. lodge historian, presented a record If you are in our area, stop and visit of last year’s events and activities us. “God dag!” with many photographs and writeups. Children’s dance leader Donna submitted by john sipos, historian Johnson announced that the children’s dance team is now in its 75th year, and a special recognition event will Presenting the 2015 historical report is John be held to commemorate this date. A Sipos, lodge historian, Tom Eckberg, lodge chairman, and 56-year member Don Sandy. Swedish dinner was held at the end of April - pea soup, ham, rotmos, korv WWW.VASAORDER.COM
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local lodge news
the vasa star / Spring 2016
Brahe No. 245 rockford, il / Highlights of the January meeting were when District Deputy Marianne Ekstrand conducted the installation of our 2016 officers, and when Dennis Eksten was awarded his 50-year membership pin. (When Dennis joined in December 1965, Brahe had many members who had been born in Sweden and some programs were held in Swedish.) Cultural Leader Betty Rottman read an article about the political and emigrant problems in Sweden today, and delicious refreshments were provided Gunnel Stewart by Charlotte Tollin and Donald (left) and Jean Erickson. In March, 10 members Berggren. met at VASA Park. Swedish refreshments were provided by Gunnel Stewart (semlor with marzipan and Marianne Ekstrand and Dennis Eksten. whipped cream) and Jean Berggren (openfaced sandwiches). Roy Ylitalo, VASA Park on Blackhawk Road. Park clean-ups were Board, reported that Gambino Realtors scheduled for April and May. had two different prospective buyers view the park, and a sale sign will be placed submitted by dennis g. eksten
L-R: Ellen Morrison; Diane Eatherly; Elsy Mattsson; Mimi Holtermann; Ingrid Andersson; Jan Norberg. Photo: Elizabeth Madaras
Tegner No. 149
Svea No. 348
Framåt Lodge No. 405, gave a report of his san jose, ca / Our lodge hosted Swedish ancestors settling in Kingsburg, the joint installation of officers CA. Our March meeting had Easter decoraoakland, ca / In January, Tegner members with Lindbergh 494 in January. tions and Elsy Mattsson put out her friend enjoyed Swedish pea soup made by Kitty The February presentation of Evy Ryden’s Easter tree with a wonderful Hughes and Richard Orlando and pancakes “Scotland Then and Now” by variety of items hanging from its branches. prepared by Elsy Mattsson, Ingrid Andersmembers Niels Kjaer-Pedersen After dinner, Tim Ruen presented a program son, and Diane Eatherly. After a short busiabout music played by the Swedes after they and Joan Kjemtrup was acness meeting, we watched the 2009 Swedish companied by Mary Hanner on arrived in America. movie “Everlasting Moments” starring bagpipes! Mary Hanner added Maria Heiskanen. In February, we had a submitted by ann tennis a cross-cultural flavor with her salmon dinner and then Randy Grandin of homemade Scotch Shortbread cookies, and semlor were prepared by Emma Hanlon and tidbits. In March, Glenn Sweitzer presented Kikki Nordin. Scandinavian “Sweden’s Evolving Immigration: Patterns, fiddlers Anders Holtsberg and Policies and Politics,” beginning with a his- Jeanne Sawyer headlined the indianapolis, in / In February, Jeannie Re- tory of the waves of immigration throughout March meeting with a lively gan-Dinius presented “Kyrkogård – Mark- Sweden’s history. He then described the and memorable performance. ing Graves the Swedish Way,” a history of present flood of immigrants and its impact Zaida Binetti, assisted by Berit design and administration of cemeteries in on Swedish society. In April, Paul Mullins Morgan and Victoria FedorSweden and the United States. She gave presented “The Archaeology of World War Thurman provided a Swedish information about finding gravestones and II in Finland,” a description of the culture meatball dinner to the fortunate included interesting historical and cultural of Nazis mingling with Finns, their culture attendees. Lodge members and and history. Many thanks to our presenters guests looked forward to the and to all hostesses, officers and members traditional Valborgsmässoafton who participated this spring! Celebration and pea soup dinner with singing around the bonfire Svea member Mary Hanner on bagpipes. submitted by james hook DeGaston, and her whole family is active in at the end of April. The historic Midsummer Festival at Svea 348. Sarah and her sister Amelia have Sveadal will be special for Svea Lodge 348: both been recipients of Golden Gate District Member Sarah Lipscomb is Midsummer 12 scholarships. Queen. Sarah is the granddaughter of Violet submitted by emma hanlon
Svea No. 253
Paul Mullins talking with members after the April meeting.
Members enjoying the smörgåsbord during the February meeting.
Solidaritet No. 396 mount vernon, wa / On March 13 members of the local Sons of Norway joined Solidaritet for a dinner party. Boy, was it festive: There was music, food, dancing and desserts. The photo from the dinner tells it all.
submitted by james andersson
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local lodge news
Spring 2016 / the vasa star
Linde’s 2016 elected officers (L-R): Jan Kamholtz, Elaine Johnson, Marianne Ekstrand, Cris Rosario, Rolf Ekstrand, Liza Ekstrand, Brent Erickson, Susanna Rosario, District Deputy David Tollin and wife Charlotte, Marge Gruel, and newest member Sophie Andersson.
Linde No. 492 milwaukee, wi / Our installation meeting in January also included the initiation of new member Sophie Andersson, former Skansen CC member. Along with the meeting we had wonderful refreshments and a fun time just being together. Our March meeting was short, but the social program was a wonderful Dalahäst presentation by CL Susanna Rosario. The icing on the cake was that every member brought a Dalahäst or a version of one - we had a full horse corral. As always the coffee hour held lots of treats, even a Dalahäst cake. The
April meeting was a visit to our Norwegian friends as we joined them for their monthly Torsk Dinner (meatballs for non-fish lovers). We had 30 members and guests at our tables. The May meeting was skipped in lieu of sending delegates to the District convention in Frankenmuth, MI, and in June we meet for lunch at a restaurant and get convention updates. Midsommar at Old World Wisconsin will be celebrated on June 19. Call us 262.366.9152 if you like to come to our Krätskiva on August 27 or to Scandinavian Festival on October 8. Submitted by liza ekstrand
Marion Bruce and her daughter Caroline Johnson look over the treat table.
Dalahäst program and members (from left) Ray Shoberg, Rolf Ekstrand (9 days post knee replacement), Marion Bruce, Brent Erickson, Marianne Ekstrand, Karin Konrad, Marge Gruel, Elaine Johnson, Susanna Rosario, Allan Stenmark and Marge Jothen.
Linnea No. 504
petaluma, ca / This is a belated report, but what a festive Lucia celebration it was with 206 people in the audience at our 2015 Lucia Fest! Our lovely St. Lucia was Emily Koagedal, granddaughter of members Linnea and Lorentz Koagedal. A fabulous julbord was catered by members Tony Johansson and Anna Scholin, and glögg was made by the Koagedals and Kris Palo. Cultural Leader Oscar Carlson and his talented family entertained us with their singing and guitar music, and Natasha Scholin, our 2014 Lucia, also sang. Linnea Lodge made Lucia part of the Christmas celebration for the first time in 1971 when members Sylvia Anderson and Linnea Koagedal brought the tradition to us.
submitted by mary wahlberg
The folk dance group helped us out and the Maypole was made by our own Katarina and Per Ivarson.
Marilyn Johnson, our culinary expert in charge of the monthly food, and Keith Anderson, our chairperson.
Bear Got His Stubby Tail.” April held a celebration of our 52nd anniversary, reviewing a bit of our history and honoring long-time phoenix , az / In January, DC Joanne DeMent installed new and re-elected of- members with certificates or pins, Swedish ficers. The program introduced us to an music, Maypole dancing and special foods. old-fashioned “fika” (coffee break). Before May will highlight author Sharyl Bales’ that we had Swedish pea soup for lunch. In mystery/suspense books called “The Signe our February “All About Trolls” program, Series” based upon Signe Carlson, her mawe learned how many different trolls there ternal grandmother as the heroine. This is are and even the “visiting” trolls brought by our last meeting before summer when some members enjoyed themselves. We agreed lucky members depart for cooler climes. to give a $200 Nordic Language Camp submitted by romy solomonson scholarship to a deserving member. Storyteller Harriet Cole came in March and shared some tall tales such as “How the
Phoenix No. 677
Maypole and Katarina Ivarsson, membership chair, and Ken Ahlberg, vice chair. St. Lucia 2015 Emily Koagedal, Linnea Lodge 504.
WWW.VASAORDER.COM
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local lodge news
the vasa star / Spring 2016
Bishop Hill No. 683
bishop hill, il / Our lodge has had a busy few months. The February meeting at the VASA Archives was well attended, and we initiated new members Kathryn Cuff and Lisa Widmark. During our meeting, Kathryn Cuff, Archivist, gave a short talk about Archive plans. The March meeting at the Colony School was our 48th anniversary party with pea soup and Swedish pancakes, cake and coffee. Cheryl Dowell said the Swedish table prayer and we had great dinner music by Jazz On The Side. Lloyd and Donna Anderson were given 40-year membership awards, and Helen Anderson was honored as our only charter member and on becoming a life member. Delegates were elected for the convention, Sue Schulz gave a program on Sweden at Easter, and Alivia and Leah Anderson dressed up as Easter witches. What a great nights thanks to Judy and the committee.
submitted by jeff anderson
Remaining charter member Helen Anderson
Officer 2016 (front row L to R) Denise Menken, Janene Lourdeau, Judy Anderson, Mary Bjorling, Diane Lindbom. Second row: Sue Schulz, Karl Johnson, Roger Anderson, Randy Anderson and Warren Schulz.
New Members from left: Kathryn Cuff, Lisa Widmark and new Chairman Judy Anderson
40-year membership pins handed out to Lloyd and Donna Anderson by Judy Anderson
Norden No. 684 fresno, ca / We celebrated “påsk” (Easter) at our April meeting with open-faced sandwiches, salads and desserts. Many members dressed up as old hags with aprons and scarves on their heads, according to the Easter witch tradition. Baskets with chocolates were on each table, and Monica Shipley, our Cultural Leader, explained the Easter celebration in Sweden as she remembers it.
Cutest Easter witches Alivia & Leah Anderson
submitted by by clyda dehn
Easter in Sweden.
Open-faced sandwiches.
Katie Gentry, Arthur Mills, Cathy Mills, Wayne and Margaret Mills.
Skogen No. 700
of Skogen Lodge, participating actively in all Lodge doings, and attending 37 VASA redding, ca / We have enjoyed our recent Conventions. She is survived by her sons and 2016 events! In March, we held our famous their families. We enjoyed time together to Pea Soup and Pancake Dinner. Many guests share stories and memories of Hazelle. For joined us for a delicious repast, and a mem- our April lodge gathering, we enjoyed Game ber spoke on Wilhelm Moberg’s books on Night! Members gathered with favorite The Emigrants. On April 9, we held a Cel- games and snacks for a rip-roaring evening ebration of Life Memorial for our dear friend, of fun and laughter. Hazelle Mills, who passed away February 1, Upcoming summer events may be a boat 2016, at the age of 95. She was a thought- trip on Whiskeytown Lake, and a picnic at ful, kind, and generous lady whom we will Mt. Lassen National Park all greatly miss. She was the “Grand Dame”
Jessica and Justin Mills, Ken and Anna Mills.
submitted by by kristi betts
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local lodge news
Spring 2016 / the vasa star
Vinland No. 703
cape cod, ma /Our January Installation of Officers was postponed to February as members attended the funeral of our dedicated and devoted Chairman Marilyn Sohoel. In February, District Master Marlene Ekstrand and our District Deputy Larry Stidsen led our Installation. Larry gave a presentation of the wonderful traditional music of SmorIn our Hat Parade bonnets: Clara Buttrick, Dorothy Kean, Judith Peterson, Virginia McNamara and Janice Anderson. gasbandet, a Scandinavian group popular in New York, New Jersey and ative bonnets for a Hat Parade following tage and celebrate our cultural traditions. New England. Friendship, fellowship and our March meeting. Some were decorated submitted by dorothy ann-ellner kean outreach to our members are significant for Easter and one was an inverted colander strengths of our Lodge. with kitchen tools suspended from it. In the We continue to build on these supporting upcoming months, we plan to enjoy meals pillars. Goofy as can be, we donned cre- together, socialize, share our family heri-
Kathryn Matthews receives her Past Chairman pin.
Sierra Kronan No. 737 roseville , ca /In February, Sierra Kronan proudly celebrated its 30th anniversary with members and a number of esteemed guests. We had a wonderful time lunching with friends from fellow lodges, the District, and the Grand Lodge. We were thrilled to enjoy the presence of both our District Master Mike Peterson and his wife Corky, and our Grand Master Tore Kellgren and his wife Birgitta. March saw our annual Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner and April brought our Påsk potluck, two Sierra Kronan traditions we all enjoy. Our April meeting also featured a cultural presentation on Easter in Sweden, and included a fun and challenging word search that kept everyone hunting until the last minute. Recently we heartily welcomed three new members to our lodge: Marra P. Swan, Denise Gibson, and Le Viksten! We are now looking forward to our summer and fall activities, including the upcoming District #12 Convention, our annual summer picnic and the Sacramento Scandinavian Festival.
submitted by elissa silveira
GM Tore Kellgren presents Sierra Kronan, on its 30th anniversary, with a congratulatory message from the Grand Lodge.
Stenland No. 727 rockland county, ny /We celebrated our 36th anniversary in March with a delicious dinner at the 76 House in Old Tappan. We were especially pleased to have VASA officers as well as members of Lodge Freja and Lodge Lindbergh and other guests join us in the celebration. It was a festive afternoon with beautiful floral arrangements provided by Stenland members June Sundvik and Stina Malm and a wonderful presentation on the life of Lodge Stenland given by Gail Olson, Dist. 4 secretary, PDM and our Grand Lodge Deputy. It was a happy occasion with laughter and the clinking of glasses. Tack så mycket to members on the dinner committee. Chairman Robert Rasmussen announced that we would have a joint installation of officers with Lodge Freja in April.
submitted by betty langberg
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Anniversary dinner at the 76 House in Old Tappan. Above, left: Inger Terzakis, Ingrid Allison, Ron Nelson, Karen Snowberg. Left: Lynn Casey-Larson, Chairman Robert Rasmussen, Beatrice Rasmussen and Evelyn Larson.
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the vasa star / Spring 2016
Review: “Second Love After 50” written by Lilly Setterdahl, published in 2015 The book Second Love After 50 is a contemporary love story, a very different book than what we are used to from Lilly Setterdahl. She usually bases her books on facts in immigration and genealogy of mostly Swedes. The love story is light hearted but certainly addresses what many of us are facing when couples age and one is left behind – in this case it’s a young widow at 52 years old. The main character Andrea Holm, certainly a name that reminds us of Sweden, lives in Illinois, where the story takes place. Andrea finds herself in a three-car accident, rear-ended. She is hurt and confused, and Charlie, the man in the car that hit her, continues to play a role in her life. There are other men showing their interest in her, too – for instance her brother-in-law from Denmark. All along she is also trying to function normally as a mother to an adult daughter, without being a burden on her and her relationship. Andrea has an elderly mother, and although she has two sisters, she is the one who tends to her mother’s needs the most. Not that she minds, but as she also works full-time, it would be nice if there could be more assistance from her sisters. If you then add other distractions such as illnesses and heartbreaks, it becomes an interesting story. In other words, these are not uncommon situations and many of us can relate to Andrea’s thoughts and actions. And the scenarios are not typical for very young love, as love the first time around doesn’t usually have to deal with children and aging parents. The book is a well written, easy to read, sweet romance but leaves the more intimate situations to the reader’s imagination. Lilly does some very entertaining descriptions of Denmark where her late husband came from and inserts of Swedish or Danish words makes it fun to read. A love story I loved reading.
As most of you may know, Lilly Setterdahl is very special to us Vasa Star readers, as she is one of us. Lilly is a member of Nobel Lodge #288 in Moline, IL. Lilly was born, raised and married in Sweden before she moved from Frändefors to the USA in 1959 to join her husband who had come over before her. This book is of course not the only one written by Lilly. She is a pro at this and has written almost 20 books. Most notable is “Not my time to die – Titanic and the Swedes on board,” which she was promoting at District 8’s Convention in Rockford, IL in 2013 where I personally got to meet this wonderful and talented lady. Her books can be found on Amazon.com. by liza ekstrand
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.
ARIZONA
LORETTA OLSON was a DM in DL 21 AZ, and energetic leader for 40 years in Tucson No. 691. She started Leikarringen Dance group, and was recognized in an Arizona Daily Star article for her Nordic enthusiasm. Born of Scandinavian parents in 1928, she grew up in Minnesota, was a teacher, married and had three sons. She died on March 12, 2016. CALIFORNIA
JESSIE OLSSON June 23, 1915 January 25, 2016. Jessie was born into a Swedish family in Nebraska page 14
and moved to Hilmar, California at TEXAS age 5, where she resided until moving to Washington 10 years ago to be near her family. VASA was an important RICHARD OLIN, born February 12, part of her life, being a 75 year mem- 1931; died March 24, 2016. He was ber of Jenny Lind No. 388 in Turlock, a long time member of the Carl XVI CA. She meet her husband Arthur Gustaf Lodge No. 716 and served as at a VASA picnic. They were both Assistant Financial Secretary. RichPDMs of Golden Gate District. Jessie ard was very enthusiastic about his was also an Honorary Life Member. Swedish heritage. Another important part of her life was her 25-year teaching career, giving MAJ-BRITT GAZDA born June first graders a solid start. She will be 30, 1941 in Stockholm, Sweden and thoroughly missed by her daughter died March 8, 2016 at the age of 74. Jan Ohman (John), granddaughter She was very proud of her Swedish Julie Heimbigner (Drew) and great- heritage and was a member of SWEA. She was a Past Chairman and long grandchildren Odin and Signe. time member of Carl XVI Gustaf MAURICE “Maury” SEGERBERG, Lodge No. 716. 90. Maury was a 73-year member of WASHINGTON Framåt No. 405. Maury was born and lived all his life in Albany, California. He joined Framåt Lodge in Berkeley at 17, and held many offices. Maury and his wife Yvonne were presented with Honorary Life Membership in 2011. He is survived by his wife, two sons, one daughter, four grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He died on February 18, 2016.
WISCONSIN
FAY MACKENZIE, 83, died on February 23, 2016. She was a Linde Lodge No. 492 member since 1980. For 50+ years, Fay loved to play the piano. As a young woman she was also a skater. She will remain in our hearts. CANADA
ERLAND SVEN MARKSTROM, 93, died on February 10, 2016, in Calgary, Alberta. He is dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Ethel, his son, Kurt, and his wife, Jackie, and granddaughters Emma and Victoria; and his daughter, Carol, and her husband, Doug Bigland. He also leaves behind many extended GRACE BREDESON, our dear mem- family members and friends. Erland ber died on December 10, 2015 at age was an Honorary Life Member of 88. She was a wife, a mother to six sons Local Lodge Skandia No. 549, Edand had many grandchildren, great- monton, Alberta, having joined on grandchildren, nieces and nephews. April 6, 1957. She was a member of Lodge Norden No. 233 since 2001, and will be greatly missed.
JAMES (JIM) AXEL MICKELSEN, 87, died on April 6, 2016, in Athabasca, Alberta. He is survived by his loving wife, Doreen, three sons and two daughters: Chris (Pauline); Marianne (Roy) Andresen; Peter (Arlene); Heather (Ken) Struski; and Carl; one sister, Karen; and 14 grandchildren. Jim was an Honorary Life Member of Local Lodge Skandia No. 549, Edmonton, Alberta, having joined on March 6, 1950.
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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Spring 2016 / the vasa star
Svenska Språkhörnan – The Swedish Language Corner Svenska Tungvrickare - Swedish Tongue Twisters
Try to say these tounge twisters as fast as you can..I guarantee it will bring lots of laughter. Flyg fula fluga flyg och den fula flugan flög. Fly ugly fly fly and the ugly fly flew. Jag såg en såg och vart jag såg så såg jag bara såg vid såg. I saw a saw and wherever I saw all I saw was saw by saw. Knut satt vid en knut och knöt en knut. När Knut knutit knuten var knuten knuten. Knut sat by a (house) corner and tied a knot. When Knut had tied the knot the knot was tied. Tändstickstricks. Matchstick tricks. Får får får? Nej, får får inte får, får får lamm. Do sheep have sheep? No, sheep do not have sheep, sheep have lambs.. Sotaren Selma samlar semlor. Se så många semlor Selma samlat. The chimney sweeper Selma collects semlor. Look how many semlor Selma has collected. Sex laxar i en lackask. Six (pieces of) salmon in a lackered box. Plocka pepparkorn i en kopparpanna. Pick peppercorn in a copper pan. If you feel like twisting your tounge some more, go to http://www. sagokistan.se/tungvrickare.htm or 1st International Collection of Tongue Twisters www.uebersetzung.at/twister/sv.htm © 1996-2015 by Mr.Twister siv swan-pierson gl language director, vasasvenska@verizon.net
Swedish Language Keyboard In case you have not been able to use your keyboard to type in Swedish, here is some help: 1. Swedish On-screen Keyboard 2. The special characters can be typed with the key [alt] and this code:
3. To type Swedish characters without a Swedish keyboard: http://swedish.typeit.org/ 4.To add a keyboard input language in Windows go to Control Panel and follow the instructions for ”Language”. A couple of jokes to finish off this Language Corner: Vad sa´ matteboken till historieboken? ”Jag har massor av problem”! (What did the math book say to the history book? ”I have lots of problems”!) Spegel spegel på väggen där...Skrik från ovanvåningen avslöjade att mina enäggstvillingar Sanna och Hanna bråkade. -Vad är det nu, frågade jag. -Hanna säger att jag är ful, berättade Sanna gråtande. (Mirror mirror on the wall...Shouts from the upstairs revealed that my fraternal twins Sanna and Hanna were fighting. -What is it now, I asked. -Hanna says that I am ugly, Sanna told me, crying.
The Grand Master’s Message (Swedish) Kära Vasasyskon, När du läser detta, har vi redan deltagit i fyra distriktmöten, Pacific Southwest #15 i Woodland Hills, Kalifornien, vår eget Golden Gate #12 i Visalia Kalifornien, Arizona #21 i Prescott, Arizona och Lake Michigan #8 i Frankenmuth, Michigan. Det är alltid roligt att förnya vänskapen med medlemmar i de olika distrikten. Det är också intressant att följa hur varje distrikt är lite annorlunda i hur saker och ting görs. Ingen bryter mot konstitutionen eller ritualen, men förutom att ha olika öppningsceremonier och olika nivåer av formalitet finns det ju också olika angelägenheter att sköta om. Vissa distrikt har t. ex. en Vasapark som kräver diskussioner och beslut och många har stipendieprogram, där vinnarna introduceras och stipendierna presenteras vid den avslutande banketten. Nästa Storlogemöte är inte långt borta. Det är ju fortfarande förstås två år tills dess, men det krävs åtgärder för de distrikt som håller sina möten under jämna år. För dem är det dags att välja Storlogedelegat i år. Information om delegaten måste skickas till Storlogens sekreterare senast 4 månader innan mötet. Det innebär att informationen måste nå GS Joan Graham senast i slutet av februari 2018. Det är viktigt att välja delegater som är villiga att söka och kapabla att ta en storlogetjänst.
Alla storlogetjänster fylls av delegater och nuvarande tjänstemän. Tjänster att tänka på är bland annat Storlogekassör, Vice Storlogesekreterare och ER Medlemmar för alla fem regionerna. Några tillsatta tjänster, inklusive Storlogedeputerade, är ofta fyllda av delegater. Detta är inte något krav, men den inkommande Stormästaren, som gör dessa utnämningar, lär känna delegaterna ganska bra under mötet. Under de senaste veckorna har GS Joan, PGM Eric, Birgitta och jag gjort en inventering av tryckt material som har legat på lager. Av särskilt intresse är att vi har ett antal 100års Vasaböcker. Dessa ”Centennial” böcker trycktes i slutet på 1900-talet. Det finns tyvärr inget tryckår i boken. Dessa böcker är av hög kvalitet och bör ligga på alla Vasamedlemmars soffbord. Boken berättar historien om Vasa Orden av Amerika från 1896 och hela vägen till dess 100:e år 1996. Det finns berättelser från alla distriktsloger och från många lokalloger. Vi säljer nu ut dem för $20 inklusive frakt i USA. För leverans till Sverige och Kanada är priset $50 US, varav närmare $35 går till frakt. Här har du möjlighet att få en av dessa souvenirböcker. I USA och Kanada kan du skicka en check till GS Joan för $20 (USA) eller $50 US (Kanada) (Ställ ut checken till ”Vasa Order GG No. 12” och adressen till
GS Joan finns på annan plats i Vasastjärnan under rubriken ”The Vasa Star”), och med en anteckning som säger att du vill ha en Centennial bok och vart den skall skickas. Kontakta mig om hur betalning skall ske för leverans till Sverige. Fundraisern Vasafrimärket kommer i år att vara i augusti. Det har varit en bra fundraiser i många år, jag är övertygad om att det kommer att fortsätta att vara så. En donnation är ditt stöd till Storlogens stipendieprogram. MEDLEMSKAP FORTSÄTTER ATT VARA VÅR FRÄMSTA UTMANING. Detta har varit min mantra ett tag och kommer att fortsätta att vara så. Din Loge har en medlemsvårdskommite, eller bör ha en sådan. Detta är inte de enda som ansvarar för medlemsvård och rekrytering. NI ALLA ÄR DET! Genom att behålla de nuvarande medlemmarna och få in nya medlemmar kan din Loge växa. För att detta ska hända, är ett intressant Logemöte viktigt. Var inte tråkiga! Konkurrensen om dina nuvarande och blivande medlemmars tid är hård. Ni måste ha mat på era möten och presentera ett program som engagerar. Kulturledare, jag utmanar er alla att hitta ett intressant ämne och utveckla ett program runt detta. Arbeta med din distriktskulturledare och dela idéer med andra loger. Internet är en rik källa för information om
Amerikansk, Svensk och alla andra nordiska länders kultur och kulturarv. Arbeta med dina Logemedlemmar. Det är alla medlemmars jobb att göra mötena attraktiva för nuvarande och framtida medlemmar. EN ny medlem är allt jag ber från var och en av er. Behåll era nuvarande medlemmar! Det tål att upprepas: Var inte tråkiga! i sanning och enighet, tore kellgren, grand master
MEMBERSHIP - www.vasaorder.com Membership has its privileges: First and foremost, as a member of Vasa you become an instant member of an extended family—wherever you go, where there’s a lodge, there are friends, regular meetings and a multitude of events and activities to join, share in and carry over to other members of your immediate family. WWW.VASAORDER.COM
Inquire about membership and your local district through vasajlg@aol. com (Joanie Graham, GL Secretary) or membership@vasaorder.com (Bruce Elfvin, Membership Chairman) - Subject: Membership. Or, write Grand Lodge Membership Chairman Bruce Elfvin, 3221 E Overlook Rd., Cleveland Hts., OH 44118-2113 USA page 15
the vasa star / Spring 2016
Swedish news Nybyggarna No. 698
Arbetsgruppen sjunger en välkomstsång. Från vänster: Anna-Lisen Levin (sittande), Leena Gröhn, Britt-Mörck, Gunnie Sundqvist-Söderman, Kerstin Lindh, Iréne Karlsson och Britt-Marie Olofsson.
Engelbrekt No. 619 västerås, sweden / Logen hade sitt mars månadsmöte 5-åring i Teheran, i Odd Fellow-huset. Kvällen inleddes med ett logemöte. Iran. Hon kom Efterkapitlet, gick under benämningen Systrarnas Afton till Sverige som med underrubriken ”Kvinnor i tiden”. Arbetsgruppen, 17-åring. Utbilför kvällen enbart Systrar, under ledning av Kerstin dade sig till elekLindh serverade en välsmakande supé bestående av: troingenjör. Gick Landshövdingen Minoo Akhtarzand Anjovistårta med romtoppar, Viltfärsbiff med potatispuré på KTH. Hon har och rårörda lingon, Passionsfruktmousse. Till kvällens arbetat inom energibranschen i 26 år, bland annat som programpunkt hade nyutnämnde landshövdingen Minoo dotterbolagschef och affärsansvarig inom Vattenfall. Akhtarzand bjudits in. Hon berättade om sig själv och Akhtarzand har också tjänstgjort som länsarbetsdirektör om sin spännande resa från tonåring i Iran, via studier i Uppsala län och varit generaldirektör vid Banverket. i Sverige, till landshövding i Västmanlands län. Hon Minoo hade varit landshövding i Jönköping i 5,5 år när avslutade med att tacka arbetsgruppen för god mat hon fick frågan om hon ville flytta till Västerås. Detta och en trevlig kväll. Kvällen avslutades med lotteri kunde hon inte motstå. Hon avslutade med att tacka för och dans. Lite mer information om Landshövdingen en underbar måltid. Minoo Akhtarzand. Hon berättade om sig själv och sin väg till dagens landshövdingsjobb. Började skolan som submitted by britt-marie karlsson
Höganäs No. 634 höganäs, sweden / Systrarnas afton lockade inte mindre än 72 Vasasyskon, varav 25 gästande Ordenssyskon från LL 608 och LL 698. O Birgit Olsson hälsade alla varmt välkomna. Ballotering utfördes för medlem som önskat överflyttning från annan loge. Under punkten Kontakt Amerika berättade KL Hans Bogren om uppfinningen av nylon och succén med nylonstrumpor. LH LarsOlof Strufve hade läst gamla protokoll från början av 2000talet och talade bl.a om att Logen då fick sin första kvinnliga ordförande. Efter sedvanlig ljussUnderhållning av Systrarna. läckningsceremoni avslutade O mötet. Efter en utsökt middag serverades kaffe med kaka och Systrarna, som utlovat en magisk afton, uppenbarade sig i höga hattar och presenterade en äkta magiker, Jozima. Vi fick se många ofattbara trick och Jozima lockade fram många skratt och applåder med sitt skämtsamma framförande. Några Vasasyskon fick assistera på scenen, och de blev lika förbluffade som alla vi andra. Sy Ewy Blomgren uppvaktades på sin födelsedag med blommor, sång och hurrarop. Dansen tog vid till toner från vårt husband, lotterivinsterna fann sina vinnare och även denna magiska kväll tog slut.
submitted by hans bogren kulturledare
page 16
Gästande Ordenssyskon från Logerna Kärnan Nr. 608 och Nybyggarna Nr. 698
Förre Ambassadören Jonas Hafström ängelholm , sweden / Till det sista Logemötet före sommaren, hade det samlats ett 80-tal logesyskon. Gästande logesyskon, som DM KarlAxel Bengtsson, DD Sven Olov Stigsson, MDER HansÅke Rytterdahl och HM i DL20 Knut Rosenkvist, samt ytterligare 23 syskon var där. Logemötet öppnades av O Mats Holmberg, som hälsade alla varmt välkomna. Inbjudningar från loger, ekonomiskakulturledarens- och logehistorikerns rapporter presenterades, därefter ordens väl. Avslutning med vår fina ljussläckningsceremoni, och vi tillönskades en trevlig sommar. Efterkapitlet gick i Sverige/ Amerika tecken, med nya
gäster. De verkade trivas i vår gemenskap. Efter logemötet en utsökt vårmiddag: baconlindad kyckling, klyftpotatis och tillbehör, samt kaffe och hembakat. Kvällens underhållning - sång och musik av Cecilia Lindh och Anders Ehrenstråle. Visor och gamla schlagers av både svenska och internationella artister. Syskonen njöt och paret fick bjuda på ett extranummer. Jonas Hafström, tidigare svensk ambassadör i Washington DC, berättade om sin händelserika tid i USA mellan 2007-2013. Som ambassadör fick han Barack Obama, som den första sittande amerikanska presidenten, att komma och besöka Sverige. Han berättade om den aktuella valkampanjen i USA, med i dagsläget fyra kandidater. Framförandet var mycket intressant och Jonas fick svara på ett flertal frågor. Kvällen till ära hade flera tagit på sig Amerikainspirerade accessoarer som höjde stämningen. Vi hade vårdragning på vårt reselotteri med många nöjda vinnare. Återigen en härlig kväll avlöpte i sann Vasaanda. submitted by claes johansson
Vårmiddag med Nybyggarna No. 698
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