Published by Swedish News. Volume 145 No. 10, July 15, 2017. Price per copy $3.50.
Carolina Romare/imagebank.sweden.se
No matter the temperature, Swedes always welcome the chance to eat outside in the summer, especially with family and friends. It needn’t be fancy (though sometimes it is), and we do our best to help replicate the tradition with a few recipes. / Page 16
Swedish machismo?
American Midsummer
Weather played a big part in this year’s Midsummer celebrations, no matter where or when they were held. If it wasn’t chilly and rainy, storms threatened -- and one historic festival even had to find a new venue this year. But the weather didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits or prevent a lot of Swedes in America from celebrating one of their favorite holidays of the year. For more of the activities that our hardy fellows in the Swedish American community enjoy at Midsummer, see pages 18-21
A contribution from a reader in Minnesota makes an interesting point, claiming the recent modest vogue for American football in Sweden can be seen as the latest importation of macho American activities and attitudes to Sweden. Stating how, since the 1800s Sweden’s heroes have been businessmen, inventors and diplomats – fair and even-keeled Swedes who know peace and neutrality in politics and daily life. Macho posing is frowned upon and macho attitudes are repressed in professional settings. Yet there seems to be a residual affection and need for such activities, at least in certain segments of Swedish society. It follows, as the night follows the day, that these activities and attitudes come from their cultural home, the United States. / Pages 9 & 26
Right man, right time
A remarkable Swede has been making his mark in Silicon Valley. As one of Elon Musk’s most important officers as Tesla’s vice president and chief production officer, Peter Carlsson, 46, is kicking off a dream project called Northvolt, a “gigafactory” that provides affordable, high quality batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage around the world. Energy storage is considered the missing link in the transition to a zero-carbon economy, which is one of the Nordic country’s goals to reach by 2045. Lithium-ion packs are also key for automakers banking on a new generation of plug-in vehicles. Carlsson is returning to Sweden as CEO of Northvolt, and expects to make Sweden the most significant supplier of batteries in Europe after it starts production in 2018. / Story on page 10
Study in Sweden? Swedish universities are visiting the U.S. to offer more information on master studies in Sweden. / p13 It’s summer! Sit back, relax and practice your Swedish / p3 Crayfish season is such a big deal that it gets its own “opening day” / p7 Swede of the World 2017 / p5
Page 16
dashboard | july 15, 2017 SCANDINAVIAN QUIZ
1
Situated on the island of Djurgården in Sweden’s capital city, the Vasa Museum showcases the vessel that King Gustav II Adolf had built in 1625. Her maiden voyage would be her last—though she was well built, she was incorrectly proportioned and hardly left the harbor before sinking on August 10, 1628. Name’s Days of the Swedish Calendar Namnsdagar i juli och augusti månad.
July 15 July 16 July 17 July 18 July 19 July 20 July 21 July 22 July 23 July 24 July 25 July 26 July 27 July 28 July 29 July 30 July 31 August 1 August 2 August 3 August 4 August 5 August 6 August 7 August 8 August 9 August 10 August 11 August 12 August 13 August 14 August 15 July 15
Ragnhild/Ragnvald Reinhold/Reine Bruno Fredrik/Fritz Sara Margareta/Greta Johanna Magdalena/Madeleine Emma/Emmy Kristina/Kerstin Jakob Jesper/Jasmine Marta Botvid/Seved Olof Algot Helena/Elin Per Karin/Kajsa Tage Arne/Arnold Ulrik/Alrik Alfons/Inez Dennis/Denise Silvia/Sylvia Roland Lars Susanna Klara Kaj Uno Stella/Estelle |
New York Chicago Stockholm Kiruna Lund Los Angeles 2 NORDSTJERNAN
Sunrise & Sunset
5.37 am 8.25 pm 5.28 am 8.23 pm 3.57 am 9.48 pm above horizon 4.44 am 9.41 pm 5.53 am 8.04 pm
6 1000 meters is 1 kilometer, but how many American miles is 1 km? a) 1.65 mi b) 1.81 mi c) 1.61 mi d) 1.67 mi
3 What’s Helsingborg’s central station called? a) Knutpunkten b) Helsingborg c) Central Helsingestopp d) Next stop Denmark
8 What is another name for Luleå Airport? a) LAX b) Lule Air c) Kallax d) Arlanda Norra
2 What is the largest town on the Faroe Islands? a) Klaksvik b) Torshavn c) Akkureyri d) Vesterhavn
4 In what part of Malmö did Zlatan Ibrahimovic grow up? a) Limhamn b) Rosengård c) Rosenbäck d) Lindängen 5 How long is Ölandsbron (Öland Bridge)? a) 6435 meters b) 6072 meters c) 5250 meters d) 7062 meters
7 What’s the name of Karlstad’s professional hockey team? a) Örgryte b) Carlstad Crusaders c) Karlstad Lions d) Färjestad
9
Which of Sweden’s provinces has the biggest area? a) Småland b) Värmland c) Skåne d) Lappland
10 What is the name of Sweden’s oldest written book (in Swedish)? a) Skaramissalet b) Gustav Vasas bibel c) Gutalagen d) Äldre Västgötalagen Answers: 1:C, 2:B, 3:A, 4:B, 5:B, 6:C, 7:D, 8:C, 9:D, 10:D
The Vasa Museum has consistently been named among the best museums in the world by its visitors.
What year was the Vasa ship, now a Stockholm museum, salvaged? a) 1963 b) 1960 c) 1961 d) 1959
CULTURE
Namnsdagar
Elin — July 31 / Ellen — August 18 The female names Elin and Ellen both have several origins: They are an English form of Helena, from the Greek name meaning “torch” or “light.” Ellen may soon be the top name of the 21st century. In 2016 there were 26,479 women, and even three men, with the name Ellen in Sweden.
Augusti
Arne — August 4 The man’s name Arne is a Nordic name with a German word stem, arn- “örn.” The name originates from the prehistoric Scandinavian word for “eagle” which is “arni.” Arne can be given alone or combined with other names, written with or without a hyphen (Leif-Arne, Nils-Arne or Tor Arne, Lars Arne, etc). The oldest proof of the name in Sweden is on a rune stone at Nora sjö in Södermanland. It has always been a popular name in Sweden as well as Finland, though popularity declined somewhat since the 1950s. In old Greece, Arne was a female name; according to myth, Arne was the daughter of Aeolus, the ruler of winds. In 2016 there were 59,655 people with the name Arne in Sweden.
founded in new york city in september 1872 Nordstjernan (ISSN 1059-7670), founded in New York City in September 1872, is published by Swedish News, Inc., 570 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022 • Readers services and editorial submissions: P.O. Box 1710, New Canaan, CT 06840 Periodicals Postage paid at New York, NY, and additional mailing offices. www.nordstjernan.com, Nordstjernan is published semimonthly, except for the months of January, February, July when it is monthly and Augustwith no issue. POST MASTER: Please send address changes to Nordstjernan, P.O. Box 1710, New Canaan, CT 06840 Subscription rates: 1 yr. = $55, Two yr. = $99, outside US 1 yr. = $167.
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this week…
relax during summer vacation (and test your Swedish: Archipelago - Skärgård)
Under dessa sommarveckor när Sverige faktiskt (äntligen!) har sommarlikt väder, är de flesta svenskar på semester i en eller annan omfattning. De kan vara på ett sommarställe på landet eller nära havet, kanske i en av det nordiska landets många skärgårdar, kanske med den här utgåvan av Nordstjernan i sina händer.
An archipelago is a large group or chain of islands isolated in large amounts of water, or as in the case of Sweden, near a large land mass. Sweden has archipelagos just about everywhere there is coastline: along the east, west and in the far north at the Gulf of Bothnia.
En skärgård är en stor grupp eller ett band av öar över en stor yta vatten, eller som i Sverige, nära en stor landmassa. Sverige har skärgårdar nästan överallt där det finns kust: i öster, i väster och längst upp i norr vid Bottniska viken.
The archipelagos of Stockholm and Gothenburg are the most well known Swedish archipelagos; Stockholm’s is the biggest with nearly 30,000 islands and skerries, spreading 80 km (50 miles) into the Baltic Sea.
Stockholms och Göteborgs skärgårdar är de mest kända svenska skärgårdarna; Stockholms är den största med nära 30 000 öar och skär, som sträcker sig 80 km (50 miles) ut i Östersjön.
Enjoying the assets of the archipelagos isn’t limited to those who are fortunate to live there; ferries sail to islands where people can boat, hike, fish, sea kayak, bike and swim, forage for wild berries and mushrooms, cook fish at campsite BBQ stations, dine on the world's best seafood and enjoy a floating sauna. Campsites are open for everyone. You can stay at a hostel or cottage rental, and there are nice hotels as well.
Att njuta av de tillgångar skärgården erbjuder är inte begränsat till dem som har förmånen att bo där; det går färjor till öar där man kan hyra båt, vandra, fiska, paddla kajak, cykla och simma, plocka bär och svamp, koka fisk på grillstationer, äta världens bästa skaldjur i restauranger och njuta av en flytande bastu. Campingplatser är öppna för alla. Du kan bo på ett vandrarhem eller hyra en stuga och det finns också trevliga hotell.
Top 5 things to do during a Swedish summer: 1. Swim in the archipelago 2. Stay in a cottage 3. Read (Nordstjernan) by the light of the midnight sun 4. Pitch a tent on a skerry (below) 5. Fill in the blank and tell us: editor@nordstjernan.com
Page 5
Sweden’s beloved crown princess is celebrating her 40th birthday on July 14 Grattis på födelsedagen, Kronprinsessan!
Dashboard, p4-5
Americans sail into Stockholm / An unlikely sculpture brings warmth and community / Ikea opens in Columbus, Ohio / Celebrating a royal birthday / Swede of the World / Community-building sauna
Page 13 The interest among American students in graduate studies in Sweden is on the increase— Stockholm University alone sees 400 applications every year from the United States.
Events calendar, p6-8
What’s going on around Swedish America
Your next is sue will be mailed o n September 1, 2017. Enjoy the summer hia tus!
Feature, p13
The possibilities are real: Get your Master’s degree in Stockholm Our Swedish Honorary Consuls, who are they really? We decided to take a look. /p14
Food, p16-17
Summer fare for the grill, or stand alone meals for hot nights and for the smörgåsbord ... and always meatballs.
Swedish News, p24-25
Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se
During these weeks of summer, when Sweden really (finally!) has summery weather, most Swedes are on vacation to one degree or another. They may be at a summer house in the woods or near the water, perhaps in one of the Nordic country’s many archipelagos, perhaps with this issue of Nordstjernan in their hands.
Swede breaks more swim records / Extra job initiative gets needed boost / Ikea keeps innovating / Swedish students help people help themselves / Beloved Swede dies / Tis the season for Chanterelle mushrooms / Reinfeldt takes on new leadership role The Exchange Rate:
$1.00 = SEK 8.46 (6.29.2017)
JULY 15, 2017 3
dashboard | july 15, 2017
Honorary Consuls in DC
More Americans cruising to Stockholm Cruise ship companies are concerned about the “unstable geopolitical situation” in the Eastern Mediterranean to the Baltic, and are re-routing their trips. According to Ports of Stockholm, a record number of cruise ship are expected to visit Stockholm this year; they know of some 270 cruise ships with a total of 650,000 passengers – that’s a 30 percent increase over last year. The biggest groups of tourists coming by cruise to Stockholm are from Germany and the U.S.
The stories, the traditions, the people behind the news. founded in new york city in september 1872 executive editor & publisher:
Ulf Barslund Mårtensson (editor@nordstjernan.com) editor:
Amanda Olson Robison (editor@nordstjernan.com) managing editor & production: Everett Martin graphic design: Nadia Wojcik (design@nordstjernan.com)
Honorary consuls, vice consuls and embassy personnel at the Swedish Embassy in Washington, DC. Photo: Timothy Lundgren
The Embassy hosts an annual consul conference with political updates from and about Sweden, consular updates and issues, crisis exercises and issues about Swedish promotion: “A good opportunity for all of us to gather about common, important issues,” says Ambassador Björn Lyrvall, Washington, DC. "Sweden's honorary consuls are very important to the embassy. Their local network and local knowledge in each district are invaluable in a country like the United States with so many different states, laws and regulations. They have a wide variety of tasks. Among these are assisting Swedish citizens and persons living in Sweden with consular assistance, advice and information on how to get help, collaborate with the embassy in crisis situations, issue provisional passports, assist the embassy on issues regarding residence permits and visas. In connection with general elections, voting for Swedes is held at the consulate. The consulate also plays an important role in the promotion of Sweden and assists in arranging visits for embassy personnel and visiting representatives of Sweden, activities in their districts, as well as participating and/or conducting cultural and other promotional events. I have traveled around the country and am overall impressed by the honorary consulates' fine efforts for Sweden.
contributors:
Chipp Reid - Lisa Mikulski - Ted Olsson - Leif Rosqvist Ulf Kirchdorfer - Valorie Arrowsmith - Olle Wijkström Bo Zaunders - Göran Rygert - James Kaplan - Gunilla Blixt publications director:
Mette Barslund Mårtensson (mette@nordstjernan.com; 800.827.9333, ext 12)
nordstjernan p.o. box 1710 new canaan ct 06840 contact us at 1.800.827.9333 ext 10 for reader services, email: subs@nordstjernan.com; ext 12 for advertising, email: ads@nordstjernan.com www.nordstjernan.com Covering three worlds: Sweden, America and Swedish America. Order your own copy, $55.00 for a year (18 issues) Choose ‘subscribe’ at www.nordstjernan.com or call 1.800.827.9333, ext 10 4 NORDSTJERNAN
Swedish café in Michigan
For those of us loving – or just being curious about – Swedish food, there is a new café to visit: Svenska Café in Birmingham, Michigan. Svenska was opened last year by Christina Axelsson-Bakalis, originally from Gothenburg, Sweden. After 16 years in the United States, she was missing the Swedish coffee shop culture and wanted to bring that to Birmingham. Svenska carries a selection of traditional sandwiches and salads, as well as pastries and even some Swedish candy. Among the menu items are open-faced shrimp sandwiches, smoked salmon and meatball sandwiches, as well as cinnamon buns (kanelbulle), cardamom cake and almond paste cookies (biskvi). The hazelnut cake is made after her mother’s recipe. Holiday specials are occasionally offered, such as the popular semla buns. The brightly lit café has large windows and a clean, modern and welcoming interior in gray, white and black, with accent walls in yellow and images of Stockholm and Gothenburg. Welcome to Svenska Café! www.facebook.com/svenskacafe Anna Larsson
dashboard | july 15, 2017
IKEA 44 in Columbus
June 7, 2017 at 9 a.m. was a big day for IKEA enthusiasts in Columbus, Ohio as the Swedish furniture chain’s 44th U.S. store was declared öppen. True to form shoppers began lining up two days prior to the event. The retailer gave away thousands of dollars in gift cards and merchandise to recognize its first customers — the first 44 customers through the doors received a free sofa on opening day! The next 100 received what might still be founder Ingvar Kamprad’s favorite item, the Poäng armchair, and several thousand others received gift cards and special offers. David Garcia, the hosting local store manager, Ohio Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor, IKEA’s U.S. President Lars Peterson and Göran Lithell from the Swedish Embassy were present to celebrate the occasion with the traditional log sawing ceremony in lieu of ribbon cutting. The store is IKEA’s second in the state; Ohio’s first store opened in 2008 just north of Cincinnati. The 354,000-square-foot IKEA Columbus is located at the northeastern corner of I-71 and Gemini Place, with one of Ohio’s largest rooftop solar arrays and electric vehicle charging stations among its 1,200 parking spaces. The furniture chain is breaking ground for its first Wisconsin store in Oak Creek just south of Milwaukee along I-94 on June 29. For more info, see www.ikea.com/us
Swede of the World
The 2017 Swede of the World prize goes to soccer coach Pia Sundhage. Sundhage’s long international career as a successful leader of some of the world's best national teams has made her an important role model around the globe. She has inspired other women to perform at the highest level in very different environments. Sundhage, 57, who won two Olympic golds as coach of the U.S. women's national team in 2008 and 2012, is a trailblazer, leading during a time when women on the pitch were unheard of. Since 2012 she has led Sweden's Swedish team, who won the Olympic silver 2016 and Euro-silver 2013, and she was appointed by FIFA as this year's trainer. Through her great career as a soccer player and coach, Pia Sundhage has become one of Sweden's – and the world’s – most beloved sportswomen. “She has given Swedish women's football a face, rolled it into the Swedes' hearts and enhanced the image of Sweden as a football nation.”
Egg-shaped sauna builds community A Swedish artist duo was commissioned to design a social sculpture for the residents of the northern city of Kiruna, 145 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, who voiced their fears of losing community spirit after their relocation: The whole town is being moved two miles away to allow iron mining to continue for another 20 years. Over the last few years, inch by inch, Kiruna has literally been picked up and moved, due to its location over an iron mine. A Swedish developer offered a gift to ease the transition: a golden, solarpowered, egg-shaped sauna for all to enjoy. Developed by art duo Bigert & Bergstrom, the shape symbolizes rebirth – with a heart-shaped wood stove at its core – and was built to act as a community meeting center, accommodating up to eight people at once. If you want to see it, start planning your visit to Kiruna now, as the egg will only be available through September 2017. Reserve your spot at www.ripan.se. Photos by Jean-Baptiste Béranger
ROYALTY
Grattis på födelsedagen, Kronprinsessan! Happy birthday to the crown princess! In honor of her 40th birthday on July14, the Royal Palace released new photos of H.K.H Crown Princess Victoria. Born on July 14, 1977, Victoria Ingrid Alice Désirée is the eldest child of the King and Queen of Sweden and heir to the throne. During the weekend Friday, July 14 and Saturday, July 15, public and private celebrations are planned with a service of thanksgiving at the Royal Chapel on Friday, a parade with the Crown Princess family along Skeppsbron in Gamla Stan, and the usual Victoriadagen celebration on Öland on Saturday, where the gates are open to the public at Sollidens castle. www.kungahuset.se JULY 15, 2017 5
local events
spelmansstämma
Photos by Stephan Faerber
Local Events California
Sacramento 08.19, 10 AM-4 PM 34th Sacramento Scandinavian Festival: Nordic food, baked goods and merchandise for sale, information about the Nordic countries, music, entertainment and door prizes, folk dancing and exhibits, children’s area, Viking camp and ship. Scandinavian Festival Association of Sacramento, 916.501.9256 / chuckj50@ surewest.net / www.facebook.com/ SacramentoScandinavianFestival/
Iowa
Amana 08.26, 8:30 AM Iowa Games Kolonie Kubb Tournament: Play is open to kubb players of all skill levels and ages at the Brau Haus, 741 47th Ave. Teams should consist of 2-3 players. Registration begins at 8:30; competition begins at 9 a.m. Register at www. iowagames.org/Summer/Kubb
Illinois
Chicago 08.13, 1- 3:30 PM Scandinavian Jam: Bring your instruments, request your favorites, share a tune and play along on what you can, sit back and listen when you want a break. New tunes are taught in the call and response “aural” tradition at 1 p.m. and the jam session kicks off at 2 p.m. Swedish American Museum, 773.728.8111 / Scandi.Fiddler@yahoo.com /www. swedishamericanmuseum.org 09.07, 7-9 PM Jaerv in Concert: The award-winning Swedish quintet Jaerv, known for its vigorous and heartfelt folk music with roots in jazz and pop, is returning to the Swedish American Museum, 773.728.8111 / www.swedishamericanmuseum.org
6 NORDSTJERNAN
The Immigrant Fiddle Fest is a long held Swedish and Gammelgården tradition where fiddlers gather on a lovely day, play tunes and teach each other new music: Spelmansstämma (spelman=fiddler / stämma=gathering). This year marks Gammelgården Museum’s 27th Spelmansstämma, on August 19, 2017 at 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The music has never been written, it is always shared through playing! Join us with your family on the museum grounds in Scandia, Minnesota. Celebrate the immigrant fiddle with musical entertainment, dancing and food! Gammelgården Museum, 651.433.5053 / www.gammelgardenmuseum.org Rock Island Charles Lindbergh exhibit: “Flying Fool: Charles Lindbergh’s Story” is on display in the Swenson Center’s reading room through August. While you’re there, enjoy a brief history of the Swedish mass migration to North America written by the Swenson Center’s director, Dr. Dag Blanck. The Swenson Center is located at Augustana College, 309.794.7204 / swensoncenter@augustana.edu
Minnesota
Minneapolis 07.26, 6:30-8 PM Nordic Table - Pickled Herring: No summertime menu or smörgåsbord is complete without pickled herring. Learn how easy it is to vary the flavors and textures of pickled herring and make a variety of canapés. After our inlagd sill feast we’ll create a seasonal berry dessert perfect for serving at any summer party. American Swedish Institute, info@ asimn.org / www.asimn.org 08.02, 10 AM-8 PM Karins namnsdag: August 2 is the name day (“namnsdag”) for everyone named Karin. But it’s not the only name celebrated on that day: The variants Karen, Kajsa and Kajsa-Lena are also celebrated. In honor of our featured artist Karin Broos, ASI will celebrate her name day by offering free admission to anyone with the name Karin, Karen, Keren, Kaaren, Kajsa or Kajsa-Lena. Photo ID required. American Swedish Institute. info@asimn.org. http://www.asimn. org/programs-education/events/karinsnamnsdag Scandia 07.31, 10 AM-2 PM Little Immigrants: Experience what it was like to be a child coming from their homeland country to America. Build a playhouse, learn games they played, make a craft, and see what it was like to be in school. Dress like children did in pioneer days. Target ages 5-9. Gammelgården, 651.433.5053 / www. gammelgardenmuseum.org
New Jersey
Budd Lake 09.03, 10 AM-6 PM ScanFest ‘17 Total Scandi-Mania! Come for a full day of entertainment on five music stages and field areas, traditional and festival foods, imported gifts and crafts, special kids’ activities & program, Vikings (limited pillaging & plundering), reenactments, competitions, singing, folkdress and folkdancing, long ships, Nordic organizations and more at Vasa Park. Schedule, tickets, program, everything at www.scanfest.org / 610. 417.1483 /info@ScanFest.org
New York
Gerry 07.21-23, 1- 4 PM Scandinavian Folk Festival: A weekend of music, folk dance, crafts, Nordic foods, exhibits, lectures, a Midsummer fest and much more for the entire family. American Scandinavian Heritage Foundation at Gerry Fireman’s Rodeo Grounds, 716.665.0883 / dsandy@netsync.net /www. scandinavianjamestown.org
Pennsylvania
08.11 - 08.13 Mt. Jewett Swedish Festival: Enjoy traditional Swedish food, music and entertainment with a Swedish meatball contest, pie contests, a maypole dance, Swedish dancers and Scandinavian folk bands. 443.587.9840 / admin@ mtjewett.com Elverson, PA 08.19, 8 AM East Coast Kubb Championship: First annual East Coast Kubb Championships at Livingood Park, 101 S. Chestnut St. The tournament is open to players of all skill levels and ages. Teams shall consist of a minimum of 2 players and a maximum of 6. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and play starts at 10 a.m. A lunch break is provided by the Twin Valley Girl Scouts. $40 team/ register at www.kubbunited.com/uskubb-open
08.18, 6:30-10 PM Crayfish Party: Enjoy a buffet of crayfish or Swedish meatballs, along with crisp bread, cheese, potatoes, cheese pie and glass of akavit outside under our beautiful lighted and decorated tent. $50/ASHM and SACC Philadelphia members, $60/non-members. Register by August 14. American Swedish Historical Museum, 215.389.1776 / www. americanswedish.org
Washington
Seattle 08.08, 1-2:30 PM Moomin Mania: Join us for a celebration of all things Moomin: Listen to Moomin stories, watch classic Moomin cartoons, and make Moomin crafts. Drop in any time during the program – events are ongoing. Appropriate for all ages. Nordic Heritage Museum / www. nordicmuseum.org 08.19-20, 10 AM-5 PM Viking Days: Family friendly, educational festival features Nordic foods, lively entertainment. Nordic Heritage Museum / www. nordicmuseum.org
Wisconsin
Beloit 08.05, 7:30 AM-10 PM 2017 U.S. Kubb Open: Teams from anywhere in the nation and world play in this tournament for 2-person teams. Register before 8:30 a.m., play begins at 9 a.m. $40 team/register at www. kubbunited.com/us-kubb-open 18 June, 10 AM– 5 PM Hartford 07.22, 9 AM Swedish Golf Day: Invite your friends, clients, business partners and colleagues and meet at the Hartford Golf Club House at 9 a.m., first tee time is 10 a.m. After 18 holes of golf, meet at the bar and grill for food, drink and visiting. RSVP to milwaukee@ consulateofsweden.org or 414.291.7835 / www.hardfordgolfclubwi.com
local events
Photo by Jon Dahlin
Anywhere near Minneapolis or Philadelphia? Experience a not-to-be-missed traditional Swedish crayfish feast! In Minenapolis (above) this popular, annual kräftskiva (crayfish party) is celebrated outside in the castle courtyard with crayfish cooked as the Swedes like them – served cold from a brine with plenty of dill. Crayfish have been eaten in Sweden since the 16th century, initially by the aristocracy. As the once exclusive delicacy became popular with the middle classes, the kräftskiva was born as a national festivity for all, marking the end of summer. Tradition has it that crayfish are to be eaten outdoors under gaily colored The annual Smörgåsbeer event returns to American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia at 5-9 p.m. on July 29. Spend a summer evening with music, games, a fundraiser raffle and samples of lagers, ales, stouts and more, paired with a spread of Swedish meatballs, cheeses and sausages. It’s all in the serene setting of South Philly’s beautiful FDR Park, with beers from local and Nordic breweries, and music by DJ JCLEF. www.americanswedish.org
pippi day camp
Join the ASI on Thursdays, July 20 and August 10, for summer adventures with Pippi. Through storytelling, cooking, art and imaginative play, have fun exploring Minneapolis’s only castle and learn about Nordic history and culture as part of ASI's summer programming. Camps are tailored for curious kids entering grades 1-5 who are asked to bring a lunch and wear clothes suitable for outdoor play, perhaps like Pippi and her friends. American Swedish Institute. 612.871.4907 / info@ asimn.org /www.asimn.org
paper lanterns, with bibs and comic paper hats and served with good bread, strong cheese, salads, Swedish paj (similar to quiche) and, of course, akavit, beer, live music and drinking songs. Grab a bib, and skål! Doors open 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. on Friday, August 18, 2017. Register by August 11 with the American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / www.asimn.org. American Swedish Historical Museum, Philadelphia, www.americanswedish.org, has its crayfish party on the same day. Check our online evenst calendar for a crayfish party near you: www. nordstjernan.com/calendar
august 8 in sweden: crayfish
Sweden is known for its various seafood specialties, especially in the late summer when certain crustaceans are mature and fresh. There are three main headliners in August: crayfish (kräftor), fermented herring (surströmming) and eel (ål). The crayfish season begins two weeks ahead of surströmming season and the “dark days of eel” (ålamörkret), though the crayfish season is generally shorter and more widely enjoyed. In the U.S., it’s the crayfish that take center stage (although some sturdy Swedes make sure to pay homage in their own way to the pungent surströmming and difficult-to-find ål), with parties and festivities that give any celebration in Sweden a run for its money. We certainly try our best to throw an authentic kräftshiva in Swedish America! At one time, the lakes of Sweden teemed with the black gold that is crayfish. It was exported to the ritzy restaurants of Paris, London and Berlin, but over-fishing. It wasn’t until 1994 that a ban on fishing for crayfish in Swedish lakes during certain times of the year was lifted; the last day of the ban had been August 7, which made August 8 the first day to start eating them — and the date stuck. Swedes can also import crayfish from other countries, which means it can be eaten year-round, but tradition often gets the better of us and having a ritual is appealing, so most Swedes nowadays celebrate the crayfish premiere on August 8 every year, the date they can finally give in to their cravings and celebrate — with a crayfish party.
For more local events in Swedish America see our online calendar at www.nordstjernan.com/calendar or download the free app Nordic in America-Events from App Store or Google Play - www.nordicinamerica.com JULY 15, 2017 7
local events
Summer Jazz at ASF
On Thursdays at 7 p.m. come to New York’s Scandinavia House for the summer evening performances to hear some of Scandinavia’s most talented young musicians, composers and singers: every concert is different and features a pre-performance reception on the terrace starting at 6 p.m. Next up is Stockholm and New York educated singer Tippan on July 6 at 7p.m.; Norwegian jazz guitarrist Lage Lund will perform on July 13; then two more concerts on July 20 and 27. Check the full schedule of summer jazz at www. scandinaviahouse.org
National archives and library for Swedish-American historical research Publishers of Swedish American Genealogist
Our office is open Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 3 pm. The mobile passport station will be in Fort Lauderdale September 12-14th. Please contact us for more information.
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639 38th Street Rock Island, IL | 61201-2296 309-794-7204
www.augustana.edu/ swenson
Consulate of Sweden Tower 101, 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1700B Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: +1 954 467 3507 Fax:+1 954 467 1731 fortlauderdale@consulateofsweden.org consulateofsweden-fortlauderdale.org Like us on Facebook
LOS ANGELES Samtliga tisdagar juni - augusti kl 18.30: Svenskafton, med gemenskap under enkla former. Kaffe serveras. Söndag 2 juli kl 11.00
GUDSTJÄNST
under ledning av gästande präst Leif Eliasson. Kyrkkaffe serveras.
Söndag 6 augusti kl 11.00
GUDSTJÄNST
under ledning av gästande präst Pernilla Håkansdotter Olsson. Kyrkkaffe serveras.
Söndag 3 september kl 11.00
GUDSTJÄNST
uHöstens första gudstjänst, under ledning av församlingens nya kyrkoherde, Hans Bratt Hernberg. Kyrkkaffe serveras i prästgården. Senaste nytt om alla våra aktiviteter hittar du 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” 8 NORDSTJERNAN
Nordic Family Week is July 17-22, 2017. Adults are $690, ages 4-18 are $560. www.concordialanguagevillages.org
nordic family week at sjölunden Sjölund at the Concordia Language Villages offers immersion for the entire family with focus on Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish language, culture and life from July 17 to July 22. The program is hosted at the culturally and architecturally authentic Finnish and Swedish sites of Sjölunden, surrounded by the north woods on Turtle River Lake near Bemidji, Minnesota, with visits to the neighboring Norwegian site as well. Staff guides families through an interactive week of discovering Nordic
language and culture through activities, food, music and direct instruction. You can choose to focus on one language or sample all three. Throughout the week all participants also enjoy delicious favorites from our Nordic kitchen. Families with a Swedish connection can explore everything from weaving on a loom to playing brännboll (Swedish baseball), canoeing or baking tasty treats. Adults can sample films by Ingmar Bergman while kids learn dalmålning (traditional painting) or träslöjd (wood carving).
Do you know about an upcoming event in Swedish America? Submit it any time to our online calendar at www.nordstjernan.com/calendar
SAN FRANCISCO Söndag 10 september kl 11.00
SVENSK GUDSTJÄNST
Musiker Ragnar Bohlin, Präst Louise Linder. Kyrkkaffe Norska sjömanskyrkan på 2454 Hyde Street, San Francisco.
Lördag 16 september kl 15.00
FAMILJEGUDSTJÄNST
i Los Altos Lutheran Church. Alla barn är välkomna till sångstund,lek och pyssel kl.14. Kyrksaft och kaffe efter gudstjänsten. Präst Louise Linder Välkomna!
GLAD SOMMAR! BARNGRUPPEN startar för hösten den 1 september kl.10.30. Alla barn och föräldrar är välkomna till sångstund, lek och gemenskap. Se Facebook för mer info!
CHURCH OF SWEDEN AT Norwegian Seamen’s Church 2454 Hyde Street, San Francisco • Tel: 415-632-8504 Mer information: www.svenskakyrkan.se/sanfrancisco
readers forum
InBox Bästa Redaktion Jag ville bara nämna för er att det är så trevligt att läsa artiklarna i Nordstjernan om de honorära konsulerna i USA som lägger ner så mycket arbete på att ta hand om svenska intressen och att lyfta fram Sverige i olika sammanhang. De gör ett fantastiskt arbete och förtjänar verkligen uppmärksamhet. Ni gör ett otroligt bra arbete genom att presentera dem på ett så intresseväckande sätt och att sprida kunskapen om verksamheten. Ser verkligen fram mot att få fortsätta läsa dessa artiklar! Stort tack för en tidning som bara blir bättre och bättre! Glad sommar! Lena Stenwall, NY Dear Editor, There has been and continues to be a ping-pong match of cultural influences between the United States and Sweden, mainly from the west to the east. American football is just the latest in the successive waves of testosteroneladen activities that have come to Sweden from the United States. America is the home of John Wayne, the tall six gun-toting hero of the West, the home of Marlon Brando of the Harley Davidson biker film, the Wild One, and of Paul Walker and Vin Diesel of the Fast and Furious films. These swaggering, macho influences have washed up in peaceable, mild– mannered Sweden, first as the Raggare, a movement of working class youth, influenced by American rockabilly and rock and roll bringing the renewal of American car design of the 1950s. The rockabilly look of the Raggare with his brylcreemed mullet, his souped-up and chopped down American car and his gum chewing girlfriend had a great flowering in Sweden in the 1950s and 60s and is still very much alive today. Another wave of American macho influence was the motorcycle gang with its thundering Harley Davidsons, leather jackets and heavy black boots. Biker gangs riding expensive imported Harleys have played a surprisingly large role in the Swedish imagination (not to mention in its law enforcement community). The large presence of biker gangs in the hugely successful Millennium trilogy shows how pervasive this phenomenon is in Swedish culture. The recent modest vogue for American football in Sweden can be seen as the latest importation of macho American activities and attitudes to Sweden. Since 1809 Sweden’s heroes have been businessmen, inventors and diplomats. Macho posing is frowned upon and macho attitudes are officially repressed in professional settings. Yet there seems to be a residual affection and need for such activities, at least in certain segments of Swedish society. It follows, as the night follows the day, that these activities and attitudes come from their cultural home, the United States. At first glance the football player is not transgressive in quite the same way as the Raggare or the Hells Angel, but with his caricaturally wide shoulders, bulging thighs and muscular development, his aggressive helmet and his game peppered with thuds and grunts, it is transgressive enough. Maybe American football will play an unexpectedly positive role in Sweden, offering an opportunity for acceptably exhibiting testosterone-loaded aggressiveness in a society that is otherwise very regulated and proper. In this growth of the influence of American football in Sweden, people like Magnus Alnesjö and Markus Torpman play a constructive role. James Kaplan, MN
Christer Carlsson (l), sits down to enjoy a recent issue of Nordstjernan in the library of the Swedish Consulate in Milwaukeee before a group of local Swedes, including Lena Carlstedt and Siw Carlsson (above) don their Viking hats and head to Valhalla for a pub night. More info, see www.valhallamke.com
Pastor Staffan Eklund and his wife Maja return to Sweden after four years at the Swedish church in Los Angeles. They will be missed by the community just as much as they said they will miss everyone in LA and the California congregation, according to a recent article in the local “Palmbladet” published by the church in California. The Eklunds return to a small farm on Gotland where Staffan will serve as vicar (“kyrkoherde”) in the local Stenkumla parish, and Maja picks up her work as a teacher. Godspeed and a happy return to Sweden. / The congregation, editors and readership of Nordstjernan.
Nordic Council of Wisconsin on FACEBOOK
Read more about the Swedish football player in the story on page 26
Life made Sweder: NORDSTJERNAN Call 1.800.827.9333 ext. 10 for your own subscription.
SCANDINAVIAN FESTIVAL 2017
Featured Entertainment by the Swedish-American Children’s Choir - St. Charles Illinois
Saturday October 7, 2017 • 10:00AM-600PM RONALD REAGAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 4225 S CALHOUN ROAD NEW BERLIN, WI 53151
JULY 15, 2017 9
feature
SWEDEN CHARGES TOWARD NEW INDUSTRY Peter Carlsson started as a quality manager at Kami AB and a year later he began his career with Ericsson, later Sony Ericsson before he moved on to NXP, the former Phillips Semiconductor. In 2011 Carlsson became vice president at Tesla. During his four and a half years there, Tesla grew from a value of $100 million to $6.5 billion (now the most valuable U.S. auto manufacturer), and from less than 400 employees to more than 160,000 today. During this period, Tesla’s founder, Elon Musk, not only made the company the most important U.S. auto manufacturer and a world leader in innovative electric vehicles, but he also created a superlative and massive battery factory in Nevada, producing critical batteries for large enterprise sites and for residential ones; now he has expanded into generating electricity from solar tiles for wall sidings, and proven his commercial space rocket company, SpaceX, for transporting government supplies to the space station or for other commercial operations. With that dynamism behind him, Carlsson is now returning to Sweden as CEO of Northvolt, making Sweden the most significant supplier of batteries throughout Europe (for starters).
a competitive advantage
Recently the local SACC chapter and the Silicon Vikings in San Francisco held a joint meeting to hear about the development of an entirely new industry in Sweden from former Tesla VP Peter Carlsson. Carlsson is heading a team whose knowledge, expertise and technology are being invested in northern Europe to further the clean, green goals of the region. In his opening remarks Carlsson described Elementum, a remarkable 5-year-old Swedish enterprise, as revolutionarily digitizing the supply chain process that every large manufacturer faces. Accurate and timely knowledge of the status of the company’s supplies and continual information on contextual constraints can be the competitive distinction between dominance and mediocrity. So, digitizing all aspects of supply can now present executives with an accurate status and forecast of their supply chain in realtime. Combined with machine-learning software, it means the reports will become ever smarter in their forecasts, which explains why Elementum has grown so rapidly, now claiming many Fortune 100 companies as clients. Carlsson discussed transportation, noting that major car companies were experimenting with 10 NORDSTJERNAN
As one of Elon Musk’s most important officers as Tesla’s VP and chief production officer, Peter Carlsson assured the logistics and efficiency of supply. After leaving Tesla, he became a venture capitalist, joined a number of boards of directors, and worked with Elementum. A graduate of Luleå Technical University, Carlsson is now returning to Sweden as CEO of Northvolt.
electric or hybrid cars and with autonomous vehicle partners. So, why is electrification coming so fast? Simple: It’s a matter of energy efficiency and therefore of economics for the companies as well as for the public. In fact, given its size and scale, it’s beginning to look a bit like the revolutions that have swept the world for the adoption of computers, the internet and cellphones over the last quarter century.
Internal combustion cars are only about 25 percent efficient, fuel cell cars 35 percent; but vehicles with electric motors and batteries are between 85 and 90 percent efficient. What is momentarily holding back this surge is driving range and charging time for electric vehicles (cars, trucks, trains, planes, boats and cycles, as well as motorized scooters, skateboards and electric wheelchairs). But all those are being addressed and yielding improvements with every model year.
electric transport future
The electric motors and drive chains are not the brake here; it's the current state of batteries that is holding back this transformation. The energy density of the batteries is a major drawback to adoption; but even so, we daily see more electric cars, and increasingly smaller and lighter ones, extending the battery usage. So the challenge is the competence required to fully transform our cars as well as establish an extensive and ample charging infrastructure. To make his point Carlsson showed several unusual examples of electric vehicles, that, for the most part, are much larger than cars. First was the Proterra electric bus in Redwood City, CA, which is having trouble ramping up sufficiently because of the huge demand. A second example was the Liliojet plane, which has 26 electric fans in its body and wings allowing for vertical liftoff (VTOL). While launching the jet requires a lot of energy, it is seven times more efficient than a Tesla when flying. Another example was a Canadian speedboat that uses electric fans for hydrofoils and reaches speeds exceeding 22 knots per hour for 80 nautical miles. They are working on algorithms to stabilize the hydrofoils at these speeds. Finally, for those who typically think of midget cars when considering electric powered vehicles, Carlsson showed an example of a mighty earthmoving electrical excavator for underground mining. Interestingly, with current petroleum based machines, the costs for water and ventilation frequently exceed that for fuel, as one of the largest expenses in mining. Of course, amplifying this electrification, digital guidance and monitoring together with robotization, will further decimate the number and role of miners. The inflection point between machines powered directly by fossil fuels to car motors powered by electricity is seen in the success of the Tesla car itself. The sporty Tesla Model S initially cost $70,000. Now Tesla’s car for everyone else, the Model 3 (formerly the sexy S3X) costs $35,000. The Model S had about 7,000 battery cells; the new Model 3 has considerably fewer. The pent-up demand for the Model 3, as evidenced by those who financially committed to it before it was even produced, will require Tesla to produce a half million vehicles per year just to meet demand. That will consume more than all the batteries produced today, which explains not only why Musk had to build his Nevada battery gigafactory, but also why it will instantly become so successful while meeting the greater need for large, rechargeable industrial and residential batteries. None of the other normal battery manufacturers have this pent-up demand. They are confined to small batteries and smaller horizons. Panasonic makes a decent profit but Sony does not. The whole industry, prior to this forthcoming revolution, was very tiered and segmented, profiting merely by producing enough batteries to meet minimal demand. In contrast, Tesla will have a 30 percent lower battery cost than any other company when the Model S is introduced. That is called a key competitive advantage, or simply: dominance. But even if there
were but half the demand, there currently exists no way the battery industry could meet this accelerating demand within a couple years. It comes down to the classic economic conundrum of supply vs demand. In Europe this year BMC will build its German battery factory; LG Chem will build a plant in Poland to supply 50,000 vehicles. Next year Samsung will build in Hungary, and Tesla will build in Europe its second gigafactory. This supply of batteries is anticipated to meet the growing demand for affordable and portable electricity, which will accelerate the demand for personal electric cars. The concern must be that the calculations are correct so there is not a glut. Carlson stated China lacks the knowledge, technique and technology to build the most efficient batteries. But, as in all other technologies, they will soon be massively producing batteries. Because of their gross pollution, however, he expects much of that demand will be national: So, the Chinese will consume much of China’s own output. Yet, it is useful to remember the last time we were in this position and positing such conclusions about China — the U.S. invested millions of dollars in a solar panel startup in Silicon Valley, only to have the Chinese overwhelm it with new technology that undercut the cost of U.S. solar panels and captured the worldwide manufacturing of the entire industry.
megatrends in electrification
Carlsson mentioned three megatrends to focus upon in the industry: autonomy, connectivity and electrification — all of which depend upon hardware and software. And cars have two systems which augment the total experience of all the brand’s drivers: monitoring and dynamic maps. Since your car monitors itself thousands of times per minute but also monitors its location and surroundings, it enhances all its experiences with the latest conditions. That is to say, your experience is now amplified by all the information (both internal and external) from the entire fleet of cars. And these new cars are further enhanced by advances in monitoring technology, such as LIDAR (laser radar), cameras and other sensors. The automobile industry has not settled on a standard yet, but as
soon as it does, all electric vehicles will be optimized. When a Tesla vehicle had an accident a year ago, the company did not merely file away a report. Instead Tesla immediately studied all the data from the moments before, during and after the collision, and then they translated those lessons into better cars with improved detection systems, ultimately relying more upon radar to prevent similar accidents. Transmitting these lessons instantly informed the entire fleet, making every vehicle safer — this is not repairing the weakest link to make it stronger; this is replacing all links to strengthen the entire chain.
an 100,000 "Tesla now has more th th this vehicles on the roads wi weeks suite of sensors. In three ta as they collect as much da ars." ye Google does in seven Why is this important? According to Carlsson, because Tesla now has more than 100,000 vehicles on the roads with this suite of sensors. In three weeks they collect as much data as Google does in seven years. In contrast, most traditional car companies are just now experimenting with electric vehicles and rudimentary digital collection. The future is clear: Technology will radically change the car, and car companies will become known for their competence not merely in external design but for safety, comfort and energy efficiency. But most traditional car companies are just now experimenting with electric vehicles and rudimentary digital collection. This significant mismatch is becoming apparent not merely to vehicle manufacturers but also to the petroleum companies, for there is no comparison in the efficiencies between combustion engines and electric generators. And with that, innovative car companies are now hiring software-, electrical- and high-voltage engineers. Those who don’t adapt to the current environment — as in all forms of evolution — will become extinct (like the car official resist
JULY 15, 2017 11
feature -ing change, who claimed that “our users love the smell of diesel!”). Recent investments charted by Peter Carlsson, CEO of Northolt, show that investors get the message: Electricity in a car is really cheap. And so, regardless of federal policies, it is only a matter of time before attention is paid to electricity’s efficient production, transmission and propulsion. In explaining the metrics of battery production for companies and nations, he demonstrated why Sweden can become a leader in the field.
the essential ingredient
Carlsson believes that located in Sweden, Northvolt can make the difference, gaining a distinct competitive advantage. As the world moves from a petroleum-based to electric-driven economy, Sweden is the perfect location for such a battery gigafactory because of the raw materials available in the Nordic region, its power to produce the product as well as charge the batteries. The patents on Lithium-ion batteries are expiring in the near future, and every decade brings a revolution in the energy density of batteries. The tremendous heat generated by the production of batteries makes it logical to be near water and near a city, which could distribute the heat and excess energy to its residents. Carlsson’s charts show the need for ample batteries (Energy Stationary Storage, ESS) will grow in Europe both to store energy generated from wind and solar farms as well as to balance the fluctuating loads on electric transmission networks. But Europe’s transition to carbon-free electricity will require enormous capacity, perhaps exceeding 700 GWhs (billions of watts consumed per hour) in Europe alone. To meet this need Northvolt has been formed with Carlsson as CEO. Such a fossil-free future will make Europe even more competitive, not merely in transport and industrial sectors but also in batteries for consumer and residential services. This audacious plan will create gigafactories beside con-
suming cities, creating 2,500-3,000 jobs — an easy commute for neighboring urban employees. Initially developing this sector in Sweden, Carlsson believes that Northvolt has half a dozen distinctive advantages: 1) vertical integration (handling all aspects of creating batteries from mining to materials); 2) large scale integration (yielding economies of scale) will produce 3) an energy advantage (inexpensive clean energy both nationally and internationally); 4) supply chain efficiencies (will result in low cost energy at low political risk), and when it recovers materials on the back end by offering 5) recycling for its products, this benefits both consumers and society (by making this energy both environmental and sustainable). All these qualities support the 6) European ethic, enhancing adoption and making the company and countries energy independent with an emphasis on quality, safety and support. To achieve all this, Carlsson has selected a sterling team of more than two dozen experts and professionals as leaders, advisors and experienced board members. They are currently expanding their team of technical experts, recruiting the best engineers both from abroad and nationally to join them in Stockholm.
enter sweden
Sweden has a national goal to be carbon neutral within 25 years. Europe is also moving from coal and oil to renewable energy sources. Northvolt would aid Sweden in achieving this fossil-free economy while simultaneously making Europe competitive internationally by serving industry, consumer and transport sectors. Based on deep vertical integration and state-ofthe-art automation, Northvolt would differentiate itself not only by the power of its batteries but by building Europe’s largest and first lithium-ion battery plant, employing 2,500 to 3,000 people and producing 3,000 batteries per hour, for a total output of 35 GWh/year, slashing in half the cost of batteries. Since batteries are a major cost of electric cars, this would be affordable for all — and propel
the electrification of transportation. There are tremendous opportunities to remove fossils fuels from transportation. When converting to generators, electricity in Sweden can be supplied by multiple sources: water, nuclear, wind, solar and biomass. When accepting all these multiple sources and loads, the electric grid will likely become unstable, so a lot of battery storage will be required to balance the transmission. Carlsson believes that the European market alone could exceed 700 GWh
the elec“’A battery will do for at refrigtricity supply chain wh supply eration did to our food dant chain’ and make abun .” us power ubiquito (GigaWatts per hour) of consumption. Fortunately the residential market is rather predictable: Demand peaks between 6:00 and 8:00 in both the morning and the evening. Home energy consumption can potentially be reduced during those periods (for example by residential battery storage) by 70 percent. Northvolt is now selecting the site where the factory will be built, considering municipalities with an exceptionally strong connection to the national electric grid and nearness to abundant flowing water. They expect to build in 2018, to begin production in late 2020 and to be at full capacity by 2023. Carlsson concluded with the sage advice of electrochemistry professor Donald Sadoway, from MIT’s School of Materials Science: “A battery will do for the electricity supply chain what refrigeration did to our food supply chain” and make abundant power ubiquitous. Energized by this prospect, Peter Carlsson is a true transformer, who can recharge both Sweden and Europe. By Ted Olsson
• Northvolt will build Europe’s largest battery factory. • Batteries are key in the transition from fossil fuel to renewable energy. Electrification and renewable energy storage are the keys to a carbon neutral society. Batteries will enable the transition. • Northvolt’s first large-scale battery production facility will require a $4 billion investment over six years. The factory will have four blocks of 8 GWh capacity at a site the size of nine soccer fields which will employ 2.500 people. • The Nordic countries were a natural choice for the location of a first factory: They offer access to clean water, inexpensive, carbon neutral energy with a stable electric grid along with a highly educated work force, academic competence and a large number of multinational corporations with the right profile. • Northvolt is currently working with in-depth assessments with eight Swedish and two Finnish municipalities to identify the optimal site for its first production facility. A first decision is expected this summer. 12 NORDSTJERNAN
americans study at stockholm u Representatives of Stockholm University are coming to the U.S. this fall to promote their Master's degree programs taught in English. Many American students have studied there, and we talked with several of them about their experiences.
Study in a diverse city at a high quality university. Attend a lecture by a Nobel Laureate, study in the modern library, go for a run in the countryside near campus or take a short subway ride for a night out in central Stockholm. The Swedish capital offers a diversity few other cities can compete with. As a student at Stockholm University you have a lot of options. The most difficult one is likely to be which one of the 75+ first-class Master’s programs to apply for. We talked to four American students and alumni and asked them about their experiences at Stockholm University, and what they are up to now. making connections Swedish-American Elizabeth Frödén is currently working toward a Master’s degree in hydrology, hydrogeology and water resources. She is starting her second year and working on her thesis. “I'm still in the program so I haven't started applying for jobs yet, but my department (physical geography) is always doing its best to connect all the students with as many internship and research opportunities as possible. That's something I will definitely be taking advantage of in the coming year,” she says. As a strong research institution, Stockholm University has numerous faculty members and a wide variety of research areas. “Students in my program have been able to find an advisor with a project that suits them and their individual interests,” she says. best thing in my career Giorgio Sassine studied international commercial arbitration law at Stockholm University and graduated in 2014. He is today working as a lawyer, focusing on international arbitration matters. “Attending Stockholm University was the best thing that could have ever happened to my career,” he says. While there, Giorgio met an alumna who worked at a large international firm in Paris, and she offered him an internship. “Once I had that internship, I was able to use that experience to find my first lawyer job in international arbitration after Stockholm. The knowledge I gained in the program helped me understand the vast majority of topics and issues of importance in international arbitration. This has helped me be a better lawyer in this field,” he explains.
cold but majestic An inviting campus and making new friends were among the best parts of studying in Stockholm, but winter is long. “Coming from California, I would have to say the winter was hard,” Giorgio says with a smile. He is nonetheless very positive about his time in Stockholm: “Be prepared for an incredible experience in an even more incredible setting. Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. staying in stockholm Silvia Ulloa was a Fulbright scholar at the university the year before starting her Master’s, and after she completed her program in social anthropology in October 2016, she decided to stay in Stockholm. “I love the atmosphere in Stockholm; there are always events going on and the university is definitely part of that," says Silvia. “One challenge was to adjust to the rhythm of the program,” she explains. “I was used to taking many classes at the same time (in the U.S.) with the final grade derived from my performance on multiple assignments. At Stockholm University, the schedule is one class at a time. I initially thought this would be less stressful, but I found it to be the opposite. The first couple months were hard to handle, but I did adjust eventually. study swedish for free Silvia encourages incoming students to learn Swedish, even if you don't plan to stay in Sweden. The university offers free classes in Swedish for all international students. “Speaking the local language gives a very different and richer experience of the
country and is also important for employment in Sweden in many fields, if that's a consideration after graduation,” she says. She also advises students to participate in other activities and attend anything that sounds even vaguely interesting as a supplement to the regular coursework. just do it! Mike Forsman got his Master’s degree from the business school in 2013 and is currently working as the director of business development at Triggerbee, a fast-growing marketing automation start-up based in Stockholm. “When you begin your journey, be proactive. Don't wait for others to come to you, rather seek out the various clubs, interest and student groups and get actively involved. The more you put in, the more you will end up getting out of your time as a student.”
Facts
• Stockholm University offers more than 75 Master’s programs in English within science, social sciences, humanities and law • The Master’s programs comprise one or two years of full-time studies of 60 or 120 credits • It’s located in a national city park • The student population is 34,000 students • Its 2016 Academic Ranking of World Universities: 81 • The price per academic year for studies within human science is currently SEK 90,000 ($10,275) and within science SEK 140,000 ($16,000) • Application period starts October 1 and closes mid-January • www.su.se/study Learn more • You are fully immersed in whatever you're learning – study mathematics in Stockholm • An American student at Stockholm University • Make Stockholm part of your future: Study with us!.
Stockholm University will visit the U.S. to meet prospective students and families in the fall, 2017. + New York: September 14-16, participating in the QS World Grad School Tour at the New York Hilton.. + Illinois: September 18, visiting University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign + For more info: email helene.komlos.grill@su.se Stockholm University welcomes about 1,600 new international students every fall semester. There’s been a steady increase in number, and there are currently about 3,000 students studying there. JULY 15, 2017 13
feature
Sweden’s Honorary Consuls in the U.S. Who are they? In an effort to find out more about the Swedish consuls in America, the work they do and the people they represent, contributor Helen Teike interviewed each of them, published here throughout the year.
michigan
Honorary Consul: Tom Mark, Detroit How long have you been the Swedish consul? 8 months. What is your full-time occupation? I am president and CEO of Detrex Corporation. How much time do you spend on consular matters? Do you have help? It varies from two to four hours per week to much more. I am lucky to have the help of Melissa, my wife, as an assistant. How many Swedish citizens are in your area? This is very difficult to say. The U.S. Census has identified a population of approximately 100,000 with Swedish ancestry in Michigan; I would guess we have 2000-3000 Swedish citizens in the state. How many Swedes visit the consulate? We have 10-15 per month – most come to pick up
passports or drivers licenses, some come to register their children or for interviews. Are there other local Swedish institutions or organizations you cooperate with? There are a number of Swedish organizations in Michigan, and in the Detroit metropolitan area including, SWEA, SACC, The Swedish Club, Detroit Swedish Foundation and Jenny Lind. How much are you guided by directions from the embassy in Washington, DC? We work very closely with the embassy regarding consular duties and questions that arise. We try to follow promotions and initiatives, and coordinate networking and important visitors to the region. What is your personal connection with Sweden? I was born in Sweden and came to the U.S. as a boy. Our family often spent a month or more in Sweden during the summers. I have maintained contact with Sweden personally and professionally. What made you choose to accept this position? It came at a good time for me personally and afforded an opportunity to give back to the community.
What is your / the Swedish Consulate’s most important job for the American community in your area / for the Swedish American Community? It is important to help provide a link and focal point for the various Swedish organizations, their members and potential members. The consulate is a representative of Swedish culture and commerce in the local community and should promote our heritage and current capabilities. If you had more funds, what would you do in your region to spread the word about Sweden? We would like to have a website to list all the Swedish events from all the Swedish organizations in our area. Some of our organizations are losing members, and we need to encourage participation. It would also be helpful to have a fund for entertaining Swedish visitors to our region, especially cultural members. Honorary Consul Tom Mark Consulate of Sweden World 635 Puritan Avenue Birmingham, MI 48009 801.937.9093 detroit@consulateofsweden.org
About Swedish food: I have tasted lutfisk and admit it’s not one of my favorite foods. I have tasted surströmming as well, even brought a can to the States, to an American party for fun - somebody opened it with a regular can opener and it sprayed over guests and people got ill. But sill och nubbe are very much part of our tradition! I avoid the alcohol but have something in its place. Most admired Swedes: Raoul Wallenberg, and the Wallenbergs, who laid a foundation, were very export oriented and progressive and put Sweden on the map. Explaining Sweden to others: People tend to dismiss Sweden as a very small and in some instances irrelevant country on the global stage, which it is not true. Sweden is very much involved in the UN and EU; Sweden speaks softly but carries a big stick. I try to draw parallels that the geography is similar in size to California and roughly same population as Michigan (10 million). Culturally it offers everything from furniture design, music and art, and a progressive political system that has accomplished so much of equality for all citizens, commerce and free society. On being Swedish: Swedes have a different perspective, understand things differently. With a Swedish perspective I often say things could be done better or differently, that is my own personal perspective of the world. 14 NORDSTJERNAN
florida
Honorary Consul: Per-Olof Loof, Fort Lauderdale How long have you been the Swedish consul? Since January 2006. What is your full-time occupation? CEO of KEMET Corporation (NYSE:KEM), a leading global manufacturer of electronic components with 16,000 employees and operations in over 30 countries. How much time do you spend on consular matters? Do you have help? We have two fulltime employees at our consulate which is open five days a week year-round. The consulate is housed within KEMET’s Fort Lauderdale location, which provides a great deal of support in numerous ways. The consulate is its own Florida corporation, not actually owned by the embassy but funded by the embassy. How many Swedish citizens are in your area? There are about 150,000 Floridians with Swedish ancestry. Among those, approximately 40,000 have single Swedish ancestry and about 7,000 were born in Sweden. How many Swedes visit the consulate? For what purpose? In 22016, we had 1,400 visitors. We offer consular services for residents and traveling Swedes, as well as, foreign nationals applying for Swedish residence and work permits. The majority of services are passport renewals, marriage registration, name changes, applications for coordination numbers, and citizenship notifications for children and young adults. In 2016, we conducted 43 migration interviews and issued 396 regular passports and 123 emergency passports. Approximately 200,000 Swedes visit Florida annually, which is 2 percent of the total population of Sweden. We now enjoy two daily flights from Scandinavia, SAS into Miami and Norwegian into Fort Lauderdale. (A very common visit to the consulate is the result of a passport stolen from a rental car. Many tourists rent a Mustang convertible, which just screams, “I am a tourist!”) What is your personal connection with Sweden? I have dual citizenship. I was born in Sweden and completed my education in Sweden (Handeslhögskolan – Stockholm School of Economics). I am also a member of the Royal Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA). I have never worked for a Swedish company but have always maintained a summer house in the Stockholm archipelago and a mountain home in Härjedalen. Our two boys lived in Sweden for a few short years and their summers were always spent on Ljusterö! I have so many fond memories of Sweden, so naming one is impossible; however, waking up on our island, going for a run and then swimming in our lagoon can’t be beat!
What made you choose to accept this position? I am proud to be Swedish and have so much for which to be grateful. I have always felt that I can take on the world based on the foundation, education and morals that were implanted in me from the country where I was born. I am very lucky to have been born there and feel fortunate that I can give a little bit back to the “old country” by serving as an honorary consul. What is your / the Swedish Consulate’s most important job for the American community in your area / for the Swedish American Community? This consulate strives to connect and serve as an active liaison between Swedish and American communities in the U.S., and between the two countries. Many business representatives attest to the great collaboration between the U.S. and Sweden which helps businesses thrive. In the state of Florida alone, Swedish companies support 10,998 jobs. The total export of goods to Sweden is $92 million, which consists of transportation equipment, machinery, computer and electronics. If you had more funds, what would you do in your region to spread the word about Sweden? We could communicate more effectively, spread awareness and create opportunities for Floridians and Florida businesses to connect with Sweden. With increased funding, we could be more active both culturally and commercially, showcasing Swedish culture and promoting Swedish interests in Florida. For example, we would like to create a forum for discussing the challenges and opportunities of climate change. We could help facilitate climate-related collaboration and knowledge sharing by highlighting Stockholm’s efforts and Miami’s ability to thrive and survive on the frontline of climate change. There is a tremendous amount of maritime research conducted by the universities in South Florida, and this could foster an interesting area of cooperation between Florida and Sweden. Another example is in medical research. There is an ongoing research cooperation between Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale and KI (Karolinska Institutet) in Stockholm. The collaboration centers around novel approaches to human health, treatments and regeneration utilizing stem cell therapies. Another interesting area would be to showcase Swedish experiences with migration and integration issues. Furthermore, there seems to be an ever-increasing need to discuss “what really happens in Sweden.” Honorary Consul Per-Olof Lööf Consulate of Sweden 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1700B Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954.467.3507 fortlauderdale@consulateofsweden.org
About Swedish food: I do not eat lutfisk, but when I was little we had it in the house; it sort of disappeared when our great-grandmothers disappeared. Surströmming was worse – but my mother liked it. And “yes” to nubbe with sill in the summer! Most admired Swede: Dag Hammarskjold. And Raoul Wallenberg – he is the only one of two (the other is Winston Churchill) with an honorary U.S. citizenship. What do you feel the U.S. could learn or adopt from Sweden? Civility in politics, finding solutions in the middle. Swedes teach a good view of the world: They are equipped to be competitive and learn other languages, they are more equipped to understand and learn what other cultures and people do. Sweden is a good example of kvinnofrids lagen (protecting women) and Allemansrätten (which allows everyone to enjoy nature). Also, 20 of the 118 elements on the periodic table were discovered in Sweden. Tantalum (no. 73) was discovered in Sweden in 1802 and is frequently used in our development and manufacturing processes. Sweden recognized the United States on April 3, 1783, when the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Sweden was signed in Paris. The Swedish minister in Paris approached Benjamin Franklin in 1782 with the suggestion of concluding a treaty between the two entities, remarking that he hoped it would be remembered that “Sweden was the first power in Europe which had voluntarily and without solicitation offered its friendship to the United States.” Franklin informed Congress of this initiative and was then empowered to negotiate with Sweden. Diplomatic relations were established in 1818 when the United States named David Erskine as the first Consul to Stockholm on May 22. On September 20, 1947, H. Freeman Matthews was appointed to be the first U.S. Ambassador to Sweden. JULY 15, 2017 15
feature
Summer fare ... meatballs, veggie burger The 38th Annual
Scandinavian Day Festival
Saturday, September 10, 2017 10 am to 6 pm Join your friends at Vasa Park for a fantastic day of music, entertainment, food, and exciting vendors! The 38th Annual Scandinavian Day Festival Featuring: Dancing Queen: A Tribute Sunday, September 10, 2017 * 10 to amthe to 6Music pm of Abba * Jaerv * Gangspil * Juli Wood * Kyle Elsbernd & Join your friends at Vasa Park for a fantastic day of Dave Kirkeby * The Nordic Folk Dancers of Chicago music, entertainment, food, and exciting vendors!
Scandinavian Music* Jaerv and* Dancing * Vendor Walkway Gangspil * Juli Wood * Kyle Elsbernd & Dave Kirkeby * The Nordic Folk Dancers of Chicago * Scandinavian FoodScandinavian * Viking Bar and Beer Garden * Music and Dancing * Vendor Walkway * Food * Viking Bar and Beer * Garden * Nordic Nordic Beer TastingScandinavian *BeerChildren’s Activities Morning Tasting * Children’s Activities * Morning Church Service * Folk Dancing Class Church Service * Folk Dancing Class Featuring: Dancing Queen: A Tribute to the Music of Abba
September 10, 2017 * 10 am to 6 pm September 10, per 2017 * 1210andam tofree! 6 pm Admission: $10.00 person, under Admission: $10.00 per person, and under For more information and directions, visit the 12 official festival websitefree! at www.scandinaviandayil.com For more information and directions, visit the official Vasa Park www.vasaparkil.com 35W217 Route 31 * South Elgin, Illinois festival website at 60177 847-695-6720
We asked around, and yes, Swedish meatballs are common on the summer table—perfect as an alternative to the herring dishes, to the month of August’s crayfish, as a complement to the Jansson’s Temptation [Janssons Frestelse] or served with pasta or a light potato salad. The content of the Swedish meatball may vary, depending on where in the country the recipe comes from, the season, and of course every family has its own favorite. For the dog days of summer, nothing beats a fresh potato salad, however. It's a great side dish, it's perfect for picnics and it plays well with other ingredients—especially smoked meats like ham, turkey or fish. You decide just how rich you want it: If you add shrimp or crayfish, then the salad goes from side dish to main dish. We’ve included two potato salad recipes here, both of which can be served warm or cold. For those new to meatball making, we’ve included a recipe at the end. For the vegetarians among us, here is chef Anders Tegner's recipe for a delicious veggie slider on the grill:
Vasa Park www.vasaparkil.com 35W217 Route 31 * South Elgin, Illinois 60177
Mini hamburger buns Makes 12 buns
847-695-6720
Mushroom and chickpea slider (When the mixture has been formed into patties, they should rest in the fridge for one hour, so start early.) Serves 8
Al Johnson's Wild Organic Swedish Lingonberries All organic, 55% berry concentration provides authentic Scandinavian flavor Special Fandinavian pricing: For 20% off, enter code "lingon20" at online check-out Pick up an Al Johnson's gift certificate! Available in the Butik and online at aljohnsonsshop.com.
10698 N. Bay Shore Dr. | Sister Bay, WI 54234 | USA 920.854.2626 | www.aljohnsons.com
16 NORDSTJERNAN
Spicy mayo 4 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 teaspoons miso paste 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco Whisk together the mayonnaise, miso paste and Tabasco. Taste and adjust seasoning to taste.
www.scandinaviandayil.com
Become a Fandinavian!
mushroom mix to the bowl. 3. Mix the flour, rub and eggs, and stir into a smooth batter. Turn in the apple and spices. Taste and adjust the seasoning with the rub, salt, pepper and Tabasco or Cholula. 4. Shape eight small patties, pressing firmly so they become compact. Put the patties on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. Let the patties rest for at least an hour in the fridge so they keep their shape. 5. While the patties are in the refrigerator, prepare the accessory ingredients so you can build your sliders when the patties are freshly grilled. Fry the mushrooms in a generous amount of oil until crispy then drain on paper towels. 6. Brush the surface of the patties with 2 teaspoons oil. Grill or roast them until they are properly warm. 7. Place the bottom buns on a serving plate, add the patties and mushrooms to them. Top with spicy mayo and accessory ingredients and serve immediately.
Ingredients 2 + 2 teaspoons canola oil 1/2 cup chopped shallots 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained well 3 tablespoons chickpea flour 3 tablespoons corn flour (flour, not starch) 1-2 tablespoons rub with a smoky flavor 1 egg 1/2 cup grated apple salt and ground black pepper A few drops of Tabasco 8 large hats of oyster mushrooms Instructions 1. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a frying pan. Fry the onion, garlic and mushrooms for a few minutes until the mixture is dry. Remove from heat. 2. Mash the chickpeas with a fork in a bowl to a puree with solid bits in. Add the onion and
2 tablespoons (25g) yeast 2 tablespoons (25g) butter 1 cup milk 1 pinch of salt 1 tablespoon honey 2-1/3 to 2-1/2 cups flour Brush with: 2 tablespoons melted butter Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Crumble the yeast into a bowl. 2. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the milk and stir. Heat to 98.6°F (37°C) lukewarm. 3. Add the melted mixture to the bowl and stir until the yeast is dissolved. Add flour and honey and finally the salt. 4. Work the dough for 10 minutes in a processor or 15 minutes by hand. Let rise for 30 minutes. Line a baking tray with baking paper. 5. Knead the dough lightly with remaining flour. Flatten it and punch out the loaves. Place them on the baking sheet with parchment paper and let them rise another 30 minutes. 6. Bake for 12-14 minutes. Brush the loaves with melted butter when there’s a few minutes left of baking time. Let the loaves cool on a rack under a cloth. Anders Tegnér is chef at Boccone restaurant on Strandvägen pier in Stockholm. Recipe & photo: Gunilla Blixt
Per-Erik Berglund/imagebank.sweden.se
Basic Meatballs [köttbullar] Serves 8 1-3/4 pounds minced beef and pork 2/3 cup breadcrumbs 1-1/4 cups milk 2 eggs 1 yellow onion 1/2 tbsp salt 1 pinch white pepper 1/2 tsp allspice 1/2 tsp ground ginger butter for frying Instructions 1. Mix breadcrumbs and milk and let stand 15 minutes. 2. Finely chop onion and brown in skillet, let cool. Mix all ingredients well. 3. Wet a chopping board and your hands with water to make forming the meatballs easier. 4. Brown the meatballs in a frying pan, then finish off in the oven at 350°F for approximately 10 minutes. Potato salad with herbs Serves 8 Ingredients 3-1/2 pounds new potatoes, boiled and quartered 6 scallions, chopped 1 bunch radishes Dressing 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon Dijon-type mustard 1 garlic clove, grated 4 ounces fresh herbs (chopped basil, dill, chervil) salt and pepper Instructions 1. Mix potatoes, scallions and radishes in a bowl. 2. In a smaller bowl mix vinegar, oil, mustard and garlic. Stir in the herbs and add salt and pepper to taste. 3. Carefully add the dressing to the potato mix. Put in fridge until cool. Garnish with chervil. Any kind of potato salad combines well with smoked salmon or gravlax, a favorite among Swedes in the summer.
Jakob Fridholm/imagebank.sweden.se
Potato salad with asparagus Serves 4 2 pounds new potatoes 2 cups (500 grams) green asparagus 1 red onion, chopped 3 tablespoons dill, chopped Dressing 1 tablespoon mustard (coarse-grained) 1-1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon water 1/3 cup cold pressed vegetable oil salt and black pepper to taste
1. Dressing: Stir mustard, lemon and water. Add oil, a little at a time. Taste with salt and pepper. 2. Boil the potatoes in lightly salted water. Cool slightly and cut into smaller pieces. Pour the dressing on top. 3. Cut off the rough part of the asparagus, and boil in lightly salted water for approximately 4 minutes, until it is al dente. Cut into smaller pieces. 4. Carefully mix potatoes, asparagus, onion and dill. Serve on a plate. Tip: Add any kind of seafood, smoked turkey, chicken or meat to create a tasty dish to serve beachside or at the lake with bread and drinks of your choice. JULY 15, 2017 17
local events
SAPL’s 123rd Midsummer: distinctive and successful The tradition of the oldest Swedish Midsummer festival in the U.S continues. 34th Annual Sacramento Scandinavian Festival Saturday, August 19, 2017 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
The 50th celebration of Midsummer at Sveadal – and the 123rd celebration in San Francisco — was put to the test by Mother Nature: After six years of drought, during which Sveadal narrowly escaped a forest fire, the winter storms were very destructive to the Santa Cruz Mountain roads, so Saratoga Springs Park was chosen as the Midsummer venue. Attendance was limited to 400 (about 1/5 of the typical attendance), but an amazing Midsummer Festival commenced with much of the usual program condensed into a packed schedule. Since we couldn’t transport our huge Sveadal maypole, a 13-foot-tall pole was used
in its place; it ended up the most photographed object and will undoubtedly be retained for future Midsummers. This year’s parade, led by the musicians and those attired in Swedish provincial or national costumes, was as wonderful as always, ending with the Maids of Honor and the queen seated on stage for a brief program, the singing of the American and Swedish national anthems, and another of the trademark delightful talks by the Hon. Consul General of Sweden Barbro Osher. The remainder of the day was dedicated to many hours of traditional Swedish folk dancing, the featured activity of the event. Ted Olsson
Scandinavian Food, Baked Goods and Merchandise • Information about the Nordic Countries • Music, Entertainment and Door Prizes • Scandinavian Folk Dancing and Exhibits • Children’s Area with Arts & Crafts Outside - Viking Camp and Ship
SCOTTISH RITE MASONIC CENTER 6151 H St, Sacramento, CA 95819 (near Sac State) Adults $5 • Children under 12 free www.facebook.com/SacramentoScandinavianFestival/ PLEASE NOTE: Some food items may sell out early
For 123 years the queen (Sonya Beroza) has ruled Midsummer with Columbia (Challena Gilbert), left, and Svea (Olivia Simms). Photo Kathleen (Poonie) Erickson
katrin, almost american A new novel by Lilly Setterdahl, the author’s 20th book
Lilly Setterdahl’s Swedish immigration novel plays like a movie. The story begins in Sweden after World War I when Katrin assumes her first job. The young girl turns down a marriage proposal because she wants to see the world. She pulls us into a life of longing for both the unknown and the familiar, conflicts, and elusive love until she decides where she belongs. Her strong attachment to her childhood home, parents, brothers and sisters carries over in her love and concern for her own family. You will find Katrin, almost American to be entertaining, educational, and as relevant in today’s world as in the 20th century.
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local events
Wisconsin Midsummer
George Katsekes yanks on the braids of his twin sister, Grace, as their dad, the talented photographer George Katsekes, Jr. captured the probably common moment made memorable at Wisconsin’s 2017 Midsummer festival The annual event starts with a lot of flowers – for crowns such as Grace’s as well as the majstång which the Milwaukee area Swedes are proud to say has been known to “look more authentic than some in Sweden.” The historic site of Old World Wisconsin’s outdoor museum includes a (falun) red barn with dining facilities with Swedish lunch on Midsummer; otherwise most attendees bring their own picnics with the usual Swedish goodies: potatis, köttbullar, tomat med ägg, korv and strawberry torte.
(Top) Leaders of Bay Area Swedes (L-R): Linda Isackson, Lisa Wiborg, Barbro Osher, Karin Sayegh, Nina Webber, Fred Bianucci and Susan Bianucci. Photo Toni Bray. // (Center) The folk dance leader and musicians entertained all. Photo Twinkle Peterson. // (Bottom) Twinkle Peterson was thanked for leading the Midsummer Committee to this successful event. Photo Toni Bray. // (Right) Linda and Paul Beroza led the kids in an impromptu song. Photo Dag Forsell
JULY 15, 2017 19
local events
All-day summer picnic with Vasa Order of America members & friends, pool, Swedish and American food, Viking Bar, Music, kids games, playground, Folkdancing, Raffles, Prizes, dancing under the pavilion, Allsång, afterglow firepit patio party at the Vasa Tiki Bar. Immerse yourself in Swedish stuff! You don’t have to be a Vasa member! Co-sponsored by NJ District #6 Vasa. 1 Wolfe Road, Budd Lake, New Jersey, 11 am until closing!
VÄLKOMNA!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 VASA PARK, NEW JERSEY
FREE ADMISSION!
www.VasaNewYork.com www.Facebook.com/VasaNewYork www.Facebook.com/VasaParkNewJersey Dragspel@aol.com ~ 718-415-0602
October 13-14, 2017
Supplies were available for folks to make flower wreaths at Gammelgården.
Midsummer in Scandia, MN The annual Midsommar celebration at Gammelgården Museum in Scandia, Minnesota on June 24 ended up indoors. A clear and glorious morning took a turn toward the dark side, which meant the afternoon Midsummer festivities had to move indoors. While guests sang and danced the song games traditionally enjoyed around the maypole, everyone had to imagine the leafy green structure, since it remained outdoors in the elements. Rain did nothing to dampen spirits, however, and a full complement of folks from Sweden and around the region enjoyed their time together. A group of educators
Crafts were a fun activity in the upstairs exhibit room at Gammelgården. A spinner and weaver were also demonstrating during the day.
from Borås took in the celebration as part of their tour to learn more about Swedish immigration to America. Text & photos: Valorie Arrowsmith
... in Vasa Park, CT www.svenskhyllningsfest.org
See how Swedes Play Dancing in the streets. The savory taste of a Viking on a Stick. The artistry of traditional crafts and the percussion of a parade. A Swedish smörgåsbord full of Scandinavian flavors. Just a few of the many enticing amusements at Svensk Hyllningsfest. Celebrate Swedish traditions in Little Sweden – Lindsborg, Kansas Details at: www.svenskhyllningsfest.org Lindsborg Convention & Visitors Bureau 888.227.2227 www.visitlindsborg.com 20 NORDSTJERNAN
[Look who’s talking ...] You don’t seem that d... normal either!
Midsummer at Vasa Park, CT in South Meriden was just as sweet as always … pickled herring sandwiches, a delicious Swedish lunch, hot dogs on the grill, strawberries and ice cream and Wivan Sundman on the accordion (above left), and Swedes and Swedish Americans acting as can be expected at Midsummer.…
local events
Midsummer in Muskegon, MI We were invited to the annual Grand Lodge meeting of the Independent Order of Vikings in Muskegon, Mich. this June—three days of fun and fellowship with IOV members from all over the U.S. Muskegon Linne Lodge No. 57 member Bill Schaefer was elected Grand Chief of the Executive Council and Ralph Beck stepped down and became immediate past Grand Chief. Peg Schaefer, Christine Grinnell and Marsha Abdelkader had been preparing for the 2017 IOV Convention for years and it showed; everything ran like clockwork. Kudos also to Mike and Mary Hendon and others for a wonderful, full, Swedish Midsummer smörgåsbord at the closing banquets on Saturday. Then again, it does take a village to create such a successful event over several days and throughout these days you could really feel the positive energy and work by the entire group. Whatever the occasion and whichever Scandinavian group we visit it will usually take no more than five minutes to connect and feel at home and comfortable in any
setting. Thanks and på återseende [see you again] all new and old friends from Muskegon!
Välkommen indeed! … it felt as if all 1,500 members of the local lodge said hello upon stepping inside at the impressive Linne Lodge Club House on Lake Muskegon.
(L-R) Marsha Abdelkader, Peggy Schaefer, Christine Grinnell and were in charge of planning for the convention.
... in New York, NY
Published by Swedish
News. Volume
145 No. 5, April
15, 2017. Price per
copy $3.50.
h for the pus the pole:
n
Scott vs. Amundse
Museum in Oslo, visited the Fram Last summer I on display – ilexperience. Here, a truly inspiring show – was the Northern Light And through luminated by a of all Polar ships. Fram, most famous the Gjøa building, featuring a tunnel you reached first to navigate the whole of the I yet another ship, various exhibits, Passage. From explorers, the Northwest number of Norwegian and Roald a about learned Nansen, Otto Svedrup, notably Fridjof expeditions. The of their various I became, Amundsen, and fascinated the more more I got involved, the Fram – enough Amundsen and it myself. particularly with and write about 12 continues on p to do a little research
t Walpurgis Nigh
Europe and Scandiall over northern known as Bonfires are lit the night of Walpurgis,might also navia on April 30, in Sweden. Some “Valborgsmässoafton”Swedes everywhere sing their night spring. know it as the of the long awaited hearts out in celebrationvoices heard at this popular their songs by heart: Everyone makes all know the spring n, Vårvindar family event, they Sköna Maj välkommePeople bring Vintern rasat ut, many more. and våren, är friska, Det the more branches add to the fire, must eat hot their branches to And of course they an educational the taller the bonfire. chocolate is often available, to be said about or There’s much hot towns of Lund the grown ups dogs (varm korv); the university to availexperience in weather, and for but when it comes , the next day, depending on the apart alcohol. Fortunately when most Uppsala, Sweden destination stands there’s plenty of holiday programs, one the modern, May), is also a American able Stockholm — May 1 (Första to work. In Swedish from the others: of Sweden. as much singpeople don’t have city side of vibrant capital may not be quite , on the north celebrations, there often perform concerts for the Stockholm University university with an research ing, but choral groups as spring is celebrated and trathe city, is a large of students and a range of long occasion. And so bonfire, and there impressive number that consistently ranks it sung around the princesstårta ditional songs are some programs world maybe and academic s in the 100 universitie are hotdogs, drinks story on p5 among the top more than 75 in Europe. With and vaniljbullar…. within and the 50 best taught in English s and law, Master’s programs Page 23 sciences, humanitie largest the Atlantic coast science, social Draken will sail y is Sweden’s The Viking ship spring of 2017 / p 5 Stockholm Universit is located only a few in the campus in a national university. Its the city center, stops away from d by water and a botanic from Bollnäs Architecture, p7 city park surrounde neighbor. Sustainable Swedish opens in Chicago / 21 hibition garden as its closest continues on p to Kiruna—ex
en Study in Swed
offer a Tech Forecast Silicon Vikings California / p16 California based and Nordic in 360 for the U.S.
Newly elected Grand Chief Bill Schaefer and Vice Grand Chief Mindy Worden award the Viking of the Year award to Elizabeth “Betsy” Lynch of the Jamestown Lodge.
Stay informed in a Swede way. Nordstjernan is published every other week with the exceptions of Jan.-Feb. and July-Aug.
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Stockholm was built on 14 islands on Sweden’ east coast where s Sea. More than Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic 50 bridges connect islands and the various city the archipela go, feats of where in some engineer cases locks passage possible. were built to ing make up in Stockhol Contributor Leif Rosqvist m grew he walks about and often takes us with him as the city, this that follows time along a route the water’s edge (sluss) system. of the historic /Page 14 lock
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easter in swe den
By 1200 AD, our Christian practicesNordic ancestors were blending that were slowly in Scandina being accepted via with their ancient pagan thus beginnin rituals, g the evolution enjoyed today, of celebrations most notably still more than any at other tradition Easter. Perhaps still blends the in religious meaning Sweden, Easter and rebirth with the more secular of resurrection the new life that celebrations of all comes with spring. Story, page 12
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“Lumpen” is back—a, so far, limited consciption mandatory returns in Sweden / p3 recipes for the spring table include salmon and cod / p13 Footprints: Andrew Alfred AnderssoAnderson, born Anders n/ p22
Classic Easter Immigrant
Telephone: ________________________ Sweden Day 2017 at Manhem Club in the Bronx on the Long Island Sound celebrated this year’s honoree Alice Schmutz, above, a longtime member of Vasa Order of America and a Swedish-American Duracell bunny of all events, activities and organizations in the Northeast. Congratulations Alice, friend, subscriber, sister!
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WHY I CAME TO EMBRAC SWEDEN’S HIG E HER TAXES An America
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Det blir trångt på gatorna i Stockholm Under det senaste halvseklet har Stockholmarna vant sig. Det har länge blivit trängre och trängre på gator och torg. För något halvsekel sedan sedan började de bofasta stockholmarna, göteborgarna och malmöborna klaga. Folk från Burträsk, Strömsund, Lerbäck, Snavlunda och andra möjliga och omöjliga trakter började flytta in till städerna. För inbitna stockholmare blev det dyrare - intill omöjligt - att få våningar på Kungsholmen, Söder eller självaste Östermalm. Och värre skulle det bli år efter år. Undan för undan har flytt lassen gått från landsbygd till storstäderna. Göteborgare och Malmöbor har upplevt liknande problem. Det fanns fler verkstäder, skolor, arbetstillfällen, sjukhus och nöjesetablissemang som drog landsbygdens hederliga människor på vischan från kåkarna på landet till trånga lägenheter i stadsmiljö. Allt detta om den fortsatta urbaniseringen har de vuxna av oss upplevt. Eller yngre läst om Nu läser jag i dagens tidning att det under sommarmånaderna kommer att bli extra trångt i gränderna runt Kungliga Slottet. Enligt vad tidningarna påstår avser 270 kryssningsfartyg anlöpa Stockholm och kasta ankar vid någon av stans hamnar. Ombord på kryssningsfartygen finns ca 650.000 passagerare. Vilket i sin tur betyder en ökning av 30% jämfört med förra året. Den räknekunnige
frågar sig med bävan hur trångt det blir efter ytterligare ett sekel om ökningen fortsätter. Vi svenskar, som råkar bo i Stockholm, har inga som helst skäl att klaga över att det blir trångt på gator och förlustelseställen, när den stora invandringen av turister drabbar oss. Alla som kommer konsumerar nämligen, vilket gläder alla näringsidkare. Samtliga turister måste ha någonting att äta och dricka. Restaurangägare kommer att kunna glädja sig åt turisternas aptit och intresse för svenska köttbullar, renskav, stekt strömming med lingonsylt och andra svenska delikatesser Anlända ryssar konsummerar enligt statistiken 1,181 kronor per person om dagen, när de besöker oss. Kineser är antingen snålare eller minde sugna att äta. De konsumerar för 842 kronor om dagen. Hur många fler flaskor av Prippens Blå som försvinner genom törstande turisters strupar har jag inte kunnat läsa mig till. Stockholm bjuder på många förnämliga attraktioner. Här finns, som de flesta vet, en livslevande kung med såväl drottning, mogna prinsessor som nästan nyfödda prinsar och prinsessor. Till slottet marscherar en vaktparad – ibland på ståtliga hästar. Vakt paraden, vars uppgift är att skydda kungen avlöser varenda dag gårdagens vaktparad med Giv Akt och Lediga runt 12:00 varenda dag. I Kairo bjuder egyptierna på urgamla ting. Inte minst gamla pyramider. Här i Stockholm vill alla turister besöka det nu uppdragna och
till museiattraktion förvandlade Wasaskeppet. Som alla vet förliste Wasa-skeppets för flera hundra år sedan i samband med sin första, korta seglats på Stockholms ström. Det finns få attraktioner som ursprungligen uppkom på grund av ett stort fiasko, som sedermera förvandlats till en sevärdhet. I Stockholm finns även betydligt modernare attraktioner. Den som promenerar en stund från Wasaskeppet kommer strax till ABBA-museet. I ABBAmuseet kan man i bild och sång få uppleva kvartettens strålande framgångar runt om i världen. När man så tröttnat på museibesöken finns ingången till Skansen, världens första friluftsmuseum med olika scener, restauranger, butiker ett zoo och lekparker tvärs över gatan. Undra på att 650.000 människor vill åka båt till Stockholm!
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not my time to die Titanic and the Swedes on Board by Lilly Setterdahl The 123 Swedes on board made up the third largest ethnic group on the Titanic after the American and the British. The book profiles each of the Swedish passengers; including the 34 survivors... Perfect bound, large size paperback, 296 pages. Richly illustrated.
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news in brief
Swedish News Swimmer breaks more records
Swim star Sarah Sjöström is no stranger to winning swimming competitions. With over 50 awards to her name, this Swedish athlete stunned the crowds with her wins at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Taking time off after the Olympics to rest, travel and unwind, Sjöström felt that competitive spirit grow as she looked to continue her swimming success at the Mare Nostrum competition in Monaco where she broke three swim meet records in one day.
Extra jobs initiative
The Swedish government is boosting an initiative to create extra jobs to ensure that people, especially immigrant women, can find work and get a foot onto the labor market, according to Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson. The “extra jobs” initiative was introduced in 2015 but has been slow to catch on, so the Swedish government is giving councils an extra push with specific targets and adding SEK 500 million ($57 million) to be divided among the councils that manage to reach their targets.
Beloved Swedish star
Michael Nyqvist, 56, died on June 27, 2017 with 57 films and televisions series to his name (plus another three in production or ready for release), following a yearlong battle with lung cancer. As a 17-year-old exchange student in Omaha, Nebraska, Nykvist took his first acting classes, playing a part in Death of a Salesman that would shape his future. He returned to Sweden where he studied theater, and the accolades, awards and nominations started to flow. Nyqvist became one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors, best known internationally for his role as investigative reporter Mikael Blomkvist in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo trilogy, an adaptation of the Stieg Larsson’s Millennium book series. Nyqvist made a number of highprofile forays in American film, playing the villain in “Mission: Impossible—Ghost Protocol” and starring as Viggo Tarasov in “John Wick.” Nyqvist also published two memoirs, Just After Dreaming (“När barnet lagt sig”), 2011 and Dance for us (“Dansa för oss”), 2013. In Just After Dreaming, Nyqvist described his childhood and quest to find his biological parents—his Swedish mother and 24 NORDSTJERNAN
The Dome of Visions, built in 2015 at KTH, allows students to explore new ideas. Italian father, with whom he eventually developed a relationship. Nyqvist is married to set designer Catharina Ehrnrooth and has two adult children, Ellen and Arthur.
Students bring help to Tanzania
The Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) is known for its forward-thinking curriculum and its new Dome of Visions, where a group of Swedish students created a prototype of a small-scale wind turbine that can generate electricity. The KTH students created an independent source of power and are spending time in Tanzania this summer to show local residents how to assemble and maintain the wind turbine to allow people to be independent and self-sufficient.
market will rise and fall more than it used to as globalization affects the world markets.
Forest “gold” in Sweden
It’s that time of the year when mushroom hunters forage the Swedish forest for gold: the coveted Chanterelle mushroom. Swedes are so devoted to their “svamparna” that they even have a website (http://svampguiden.com) to see where the gold has been found. It also includes a map of the entire country that identifies where to find other types of mushrooms as well.
Ikea’s wedge dowel
During Ikea’s Democratic Design Days hosted at their headquarters in Älmhult, Sweden in June, a demonstration showed that with “click” technology introduced a few years ago, pieces connect (or disconnect) with small knobs (called wedge dowels) that “click” into pre-drilled holes. Now, 50 more products that assemble with wedge dowels are being sold, and a flat-pack upholstered sofa is in production. The items in the series, called EKET, can be assembled 80 percent faster than other assembly systems, no screws or wrenches involved. Jesper Brodin, long-time assistant of Ikea founder Ingvar Kamprad, proved the assembly speed in an onsite demonstration. Brodin is the incoming Ikea Group CEO, preparing to step into his new role on September 1.
Milk prices bounce back
After seeing a dip in the price of milk, Swedish farmers are celebrating a return to what they consider normal market prices. With an increase in demand this year, many farmers say the extra cash is coming in handy but because farming is never completely secure, they still anticipate the
Reinfeldt has new role
Former Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt is the new chair of the Security Commission, Trygghetskommissionen. As the first person to chair this independent commission comprised of eight members, Reinfeldt will help lead efforts to study the development of crime in Sweden.
Swedish golfer shines at LPGA
Gold pro Anna Nordqvist, 29, from Eskilstuna, Sweden has exceeded expectations at the LPGA tournament held outside Atlantic City, New Jersey. Coming from behind, Nordqvist was able to defend her title and place second in the tournament.
local events
Chalmers alumni in Atlanta
Some alumni lined up in Rygert’s back yard, ready for the gasque.
People like to complain about the weather. In Atlanta it’s either too hot, too humid or too rainy. This time, it rained before. It rained after. But during our four-day event it was the nicest you could wish for. Chalmers University of Technology in Göteborg, Sweden, founded in 1829, currently has about 12,000 students. The number of (living) Chalmerists with a degree is a lot higher, about 57,000 in 115 countries. An alumni organization, Chalmersska Ingenjörsföreningen (abbreviated CING) started in 1907. Now CING has 18 divisions, 10 of which are in Sweden. The other eight are in various European countries, Asia, Australia, the U.S. and Canada. The CING here in the States started in 1953. Nowadays we meet once a year for an “annual meeting,” which is actually a four-day mini convention, always the weekend before Memorial Day in different locations. This year it was Atlanta. People came from the east, west, north and south, and ranged in age from 20 to 90. We always starts with a pea soup dinner. The day is carefully chosen to fit the Swedish tradition that dictates that pea soup must be served on Thursdays only. So this dinner consists of genuine Swedish pea soup, made of Swedish peas from IKEA, Swedish “punsch” (the yellow, sweet liqueur, produced from arrack, preferably served hot!) and Swedish pancakes. We sing Swedish punsch songs and feel extremely Swedish. The evening is actually not organized by CING but by its sister organization Friends of Chalmers, whose purpose is fundraising for scholarships. Every year Friends of Chalmers is able to present a scholarship to an American student for a two-year study at Chalmers in Göteborg. Friday was a busy day. We visited the Thomas Concrete plant and lab in Doraville, GA—one of their
22 locations in Greater Atlanta only. We learned that concrete is not just concrete; there are hundreds of different recipes, all for different situations. Thomas Concrete started in 1955 in Karlstad, Sweden and today has 136 plants in Sweden, Germany, Poland and the U.S. Our next visit was at Elekta, founded in 1972 by Lars Leksell, professor of neurosurgery at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm. The company is now a medical technology group with more than 3,700 employees around the world and with a wide range of equipment and services, from portable radiation stations to very large and complex oncology precision treatment and imaging systems. During a coffee break on Friday, the Friends of Chalmers 2017 scholarship winner Rebecca Gillie was awarded her scholarship diploma from Chalmers’ President Stefan Bengtsson. Chalmers alumni eagerly await the Saturday evening festivities, but first they sightsee! Downtown Atlanta has a lot of attractions and our alumni transformed quickly into tourists, with cameras, sun hats, sunglasses and maps. They were all equipped with detailed instructions on what to see, such as the Centennial Olympic Park, CNN, the Skyview Ferris Wheel, High Museum of Art and much more. Some of us went on a walking tour to see John Portman’s famous architecture. Some said hello to Mr. John Pemberton, who raised his glass to us ... as much as is possible when you are a statue. He stands outside the World of Coca-Cola in his capacity as the inventor of Coca-Cola. Finally everyone gathered at my house in Marietta—for gasque. And what is that? The Swedish word “gask” means feast, party. The word is believed to have originated from the card game "vira," popular
in the 19th century. The spelling of gasque is used at Chalmers for students’ dinners and parties. Since long ago these parties have taken place in a special room at Chalmers, called gasquekällaren (the gasque cellar).This evening we sat outside and enjoyed the warm weather, not hot, not humid. A few elements are mandatory when it comes to a gasque: herring, schnapps and a lot of singing—Swedish schnapps songs of course and preferably those from Chalmers. Then we had gravlax, Southern gumbo and Asian marinated steak. The finishing touch was the dessert, the Swedish princess cake, another mandatory item. Luckily we found the one and only Swedish lady in Atlanta who makes princess cake. In addition to all the singing we were able to present 30 minutes of Chalmersspex songs. It goes back to 2009 when I taught a few of my singers in Vasa Drängar some songs from Chalmersspex, such as Caesarion, Henrik 8, Katarina and more. We became the only Chalmersspex performers in America. Our presentation at the gasque was greeted with approval, even from the Chalmers president himself. Again the weather gods were on our side. The last guest left at 1 a.m. and 15 minutes later it started to rain. By Göran Rygert
John Pemberton lifts his glass in a toast for CING.
Scholarship winner Rebecca Gillie of Philadelphia with (l-r) Stefan Bengtsson, Birgitta Rorsman and Arne Dunhem JULY 15, 2017 25
feature
Swedes in American Football This story begins on Midsommar Eve in 1967 in Ljungskile, Sweden, 70 kilometers (43 miles) north of Göteborg. I arrived there from Toulouse, France on my French Mobylette to start my job as a camp counselor at KFUM (YMCA) Camp Sparreviken on the west coast. One of the first people I met was the program director, Orwar Alnesjö. In the fullness of time, Orwar and his wife Marie had two sons, one of whom, Magnus, became an official American football coach in Sweden. Yes, American football in Sweden. By James M. Kaplan
In the 1980s a group of Swedish boys who had returned from a year abroad at American high schools started informally playing pick-up games. They helped form the Danderyd (later Stockholm) Mean Machines, the first American football team, and The Swedish American Football Federation was founded in 1982. Since no American football fields existed in Sweden, they had to borrow a soccer field and re-measure it in American yards with yellow stripes so the soccer players would not be confused. One must understand that Swedish sports are organized completely differently than in America. There are no high school or college teams, nor are there any large commercially owned teams like in Major League Baseball and the NFL, no high school state championships or college bowl games. American Football in Sweden, like other sports, is arranged in private clubs and is part of national organizations—all very Swedish with bylaws, boards of directors, meetings and minutes.
a passion for american football
Magnus Alnesjö went to high school in a northern suburb of Stockholm and graduated from a program in massage therapy and personal training. When he was 20, almost by chance, he went to a pickup American football game and got hooked. He joined the Stockholm Mean Machines team. After two years learning the game and enjoying the competition, he injured his hand quite seriously, putting him out of commission for two and half years. He decided to continue his involvement in American football through coaching, with a long-term goal of getting a job as a coach in the United States. This passion for American football gave him structure and a direction in life. Magnus is now the head coach at Arlanda Gymnasium (high school) near the Stockholm airport. Since there are no high school teams, his students learn drills but do not play games. To play games they join a team that is run as a private club, for example the Stockholm Mean Machines, the Carlstad (sic) Crusaders, the Uppsala 86ers (named for the year a group of Swedish boys were exchange students in the U.S. where they played football and brought the game home to Sweden), the Tyresö Royal Crowns, the Arlanda Jets, the Örebro Black Knights, etc. There are teams for pee-wees up to seniors, and women play too. (There is an excellent Youtube film about women’s football in Sweden: “Touchdown,” showing how the game offers opportunities for young women to develop self-esteem, strength and pride.) The club teams must raise money to fund their activities, and there is a national championship among them (usually Örebro, to the dissatisfaction of other teams). There is a national team that plays other European teams, and then a European team that plays an American team in (where else) Texas. Interest in American football has grown in Sweden because of exhibition games put on by the NFL in Europe, by televised American games, but mainly through the influence of what is called in Swedish “Eldsjälar” (fiery spirits) — people who are passionately involved in the game and spread their passion for it. These fiery spirits have been so influential in the spreading of American football to Sweden, that there are currently three high school programs with more starting in 2018 and four to five thousand people playing American football. The larger, more established teams are grouped in the Super Series Division and the smaller ones are in a grouping called Division 1. 26 NORDSTJERNAN
swedish athletes in the u.s.
Young Swedes are now being offered positions in American college football programs. Freshman Markus Torpman, offensive lineman for the Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragons, is 290 pounds at 6’1” (and still growing), though he was born a very tiny premature baby. His family lives in Uppsala, where his father, who works for SAS, watched NFL games in the 1990s and became a San Francisco 49ers fan. Markus, like his friend Magnus Alnesjö, chanced upon a pick up football game, got hooked and joined the Uppsala 86ers. Markus dedicated himself to American football and transferred to Celsius School in Uppsala, a specialized sports high school for students who have interests in developing advanced playing skills and coaching. Since the players of American football in Sweden are relatively few, they tend to cluster together. Older, more experienced coaches mentor and encourage the younger players. Obviously the United States is the promised land for young Swedish players, and coaches encourage young players to try for a place on an American college team. But the Swedish players are at a disadvantage since there are few opportunities to play in competition; the only teams are run as private clubs with private funding. Because of his skill, physical attributes, and dedication, however, Markus was named to the Swedish national team and then to an All Europe team. Their greatest experience was to attend a football camp in Texas and play in a championship game that the Europeans led until the last minute when the Americans won with a Hail Mary pass. The next step in Markus’ development was to get accepted by an American college team. He heard about a football camp at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, which he attended, giving American coaches from the Upper Midwest a chance to look him over. He wasn’t on anybody’s list, no one knew him, but the coaches could see right away that he had lots of raw physical ability. They saw his affinity for the mental game of football, and that he was “a face tough kid.” On the first day of camp in July 2015, Markus met Dan Fatland, assistant coach at Minnesota State University Moorhead. Fatland was happy to meet Markus, as his grandmother is Swedish (and subscribes to Nordstjernan). Fatland helped Markus get his pads on properly: “Arms up, pull ’em down, I got him strapped in and sent him on his way.” Markus’ dream of playing American college football was coming true. The coaches observed him doing drills, and after further discussion and a return visit to MSUM for the Homecoming game in October 2015, Markus applied and was accepted to MSUM with a football scholarship. He started school the spring semester or 2016, working out and training with the team. He was surprised and delighted when he found out that all his football gear, even his work-out shorts and shirts and three sets of jerseys, was supplied by the university—no more fundraisers and selling socks at the mall! In 2016-2017 Markus has been a red shirt freshman and will start as a regular member of the team this fall, 2017. Since he will spend 11 semesters at Moorhead, he is working on a double major in Communications Studies and Public Relations. He has already received an academic scholarship. Everybody who has worked with Markus says the same thing about him, that he is a fine teammate and a good friend. Markus Torpman is an example of how Swedish immigration to the U.S. has changed since the mass migration of the 19th and early 20th centuries. In that movement, entire parishes, towns and regions were depopulated. Entire broad vocational groups, farmers, loggers, domestic servants, industrial workers and fishermen settled en masse in Chicago, the upper Midwest or the Pacific Northwest. But in 21st century it is not mass migration of broad career groups but individuals or families who come with very defined career goals. They come to work as a chef, realtor, IT expert, start-up manager, advanced student of higher mathematics, computer science or engineering. Many Swedish athletes have come to America, like the dynasty of Swedish swimmers at U.C. Berkeley. The latest are the few but plucky Swedes who come to play football for American universities. James Kaplan
Experience the Scandinavian Way at the CSS
language classes
The Center for Scandinavian Studies offers language classes in Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish. These popular non-credit courses are primarily conversational language classes for adults and young people who are motivated to learn the language for professional or personal reasons. Courses cost $200 and meet for 12 weeks. Register and pay at the first class session of the term. Cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are accepted; tuition for non-credit classes is non-refundable. Classes begin the week of September 11, 2017. All classes meet in Magnuson Campus Center. Details can be found on our website at www.northpark.edu/css or contact Greta Rosenberger at ghrosenberger@northpark. edu for additional information.
runeberg choir performance
The Runeberg all-male choir from Porvoo, Finland, will perform at Anderson Chapel, North Park University, on October 6, 2017, 7:30 pm. The Swedish-speaking choir is touring the Midwest to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Finnish independence. Admission $10 is at the door; tickets are also available for purchase on Eventbrite. Check out performances on YouTube! Center for Scandinavian Studies ghrosenberger@northpark.edu
www.northpark.edu/css JULY 15, 2017 27
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