The Swedish North Star, continuously published since 1872. Price per copy $3.50. Volume 147 No. 11, July 15, 2019.
Photo: Henrik Trygg/Imagebank Sweden
Archipelago sports
The archipelagos on the coasts of Sweden offer beautiful settings for so many experiences – the calm and peaceful nature is also wild and challenging. And there’s a new adventure to train for: swimrunning, the sport of trail running across the islands and swimming through the warm waters surrounding them. / p 14
Sweden and the EU
Page 14
For nearly 25 years as members in the European Union, Swedes have vacillated in their support of the degree of involvement in EU matters. But this spring, Swedes showed up like never before in the election for their 20 seats in the EU parliament, far more than the national average for the entire European Union. / p 28
Dancing through Sweden
Many of us dream about such an experience, but not many people actually get to make it a reality: enjoying an activity we love, and learning more about it, in the historic location from which it came. So was a dream come true for a group of lucky American folk dancers in some very special places in Sweden. / p18 A new app helps women in Sweden find new friends / p4 On the Global Innovation 1000 / p5 Celebrate Scandinavian culture / p12 Colorful and light, fresh, yet filling— a treat for the heat of summer / p27
dashboard | july 15, 2019
Making the most of summer
Nordic countries experience big differences in daylight. In the far north, there is darkness ’round the clock in January but the sun doesn’t set at all in June. During the summer months, Scandinavians do whatever they can to maximize their time in the long hours of daylight, with a vacation season that often lasts for weeks ... Swedes likely using as many as four or five consecutive weeks of vacation then. Summer means workplaces empty and even the government agencies are closed, and many places – except popular tourist areas – are closed and city streets deserted. No wonder Swedes are eager to celebrate the kräftpremier with good friends and all the fixings come August.
Name’s Days of the Swedish Calendar Namnsdagar i juli & augusti
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 8.26 pm 5.28 am 8.24 pm 3.56 am 9.49 pm above horizon 4.43 am 9.41 pm 5.52 am 8.05 pm
is the northern most city on 1 What mainland Scandinavia? A) Skarsvåg, Norway B) Rovaniemi, Finland C) Kiruna, Sweden D) Tromsø, Norway
2 Which Swedish king founded Göteborg? A) Gustav II Adolf C) Erik XIV C) Karl IV D) Gustav III 3 What are the official languages in Finland? A) Finnish and Russian B) Finnish and North Sámi C) Finnish and Swedish D) Finnish and Norwegian 4 What area of Denmark is attached to the rest of Europe? a) Sealand b) Jutland c) Fyn d) Falster
5 Whose 1960 speech is blamed for Sweden’s reputation of having a high suicide rate (though it doesn’t)? A) President Dwight Eisenhower B) Greta Garbo C) Ingmar Bergman D) Olof Palme
CULTURE
Namnsdagar
6 What American diplomat informed Congress of an initiative in which Sweden recognized the United States as a commercial alliance during the Revolutionary War? A) George Washington B) Thomas Paine C) Benjamin Franklin D) Jimmy Carter 7 In 1979, Sweden became the first country to impose a ban on what? A) biking without a helmet B) plastic straws C) spanking children D) red dye #40
8 Which Swedish king was deposed, imprisoned and fatally poisoned by his brother after scandalously violent behavior? A) Gustav Vasa B) Erik XIV B) Karl XII C) Karl XII
9 What is toast Skagen? A) a special “skål” in Skagen, Denmark B) a 1950s Swedish food C) bread roasted over an open fire D) a shrimp dish Norwegians won’t eat Answers: 1:A, 2:A, 3:C, 4:B, 5:A, 6:C, 7:C, 8:B, 9:B
Yes, some Nordics do this all year round, but it’s extra special during the late night hours of summer.
Photo: www.visitrovaniemi.fi
SCANDINAVIAN QUIZ
Juli
Emma – July 23 Emma is a female name with German origins, at first just a nickname for Emilia. Emma is a feminine form of Emanuel, which means “God is with us.” Emma is one of the most popular names for girls in Sweden. In 2018 there were 75,075 Emmas in Sweden (24 of them were men). 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.” The name Arne can be given alone or combined with other forenames, written either with or without a hyphen (Tor-Arne, Leif-Arne, Nils-Arne or Tor Arne, Lars Arne and so on). The oldest proof of the name in Sweden comes from a rune stone at Nora sjö in Södermanland. Its popularity has declined somewhat since the latter half of the 1900s. In 2018 there were 57,428 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…
July & August TO DO 7.15 WAVE (AT) THE SKÅNE FLAG: Skånska Flaggans Dag / Official day for the flag of Skåne. Part of Sweden for only(?) 360 years, ceded to Sweden after the Treaty of Brömsebro in 1658, it goes without saying the flag, a yellow or gold Nordic cross over a sea of red, means a lot to the locals—still considered half Danish by many a Stockholmer ... 7.18 VISIT A CRAFT BREWERY: Ölets Dag / National Beer Day in Sweden. Visit a craft brewery—most have open houses on this day—and taste new brews. This day is not to be confused with International Beer Day, which is celebrated around the world on the first Friday in August. 7.27 SLEEP IN: Sjusovardagen / The day of sleeping seven hours. Sleep long on this day, not just until 7 a.m. If it rains on this day, tradition says it will rain for another seven weeks. 8.8 OPEN THAT BOTTLE OF AKVAVIT: Kräftpremiär / Classic Crayfish Premier. First day of enjoying the crustaceans during the Swedish “crayfish prohibition,” still upheld by traditionalists.
Something light but filling and fresh for the heat of the summer. /Page 27
Dashboard, p4-5
Fäviken Magasinet to close / Gofrendly app connects women / Ikea’s new food concept / Princess Madeleine is a published author / One in four opt out of air travel / Immigrants prouder than Swedes / Swedish companies on the Global Innovation 1000 / Fika for Swedes in Mississippi .
Events calendar, p6-10
What’s going on in Swedish America. Page 14
8.19* LOOK FOR THE HELPERS: World Humanitarian Day / This day pays tribute to aid workers who risk their lives in humanitarian service, and to rally support for people affected by crises around the world. *Other auspicious August dates remind the world of a great Swedish humanitarian: August 4 is the birthday (in 1912) of Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who saved tens of thousands of Jews from Nazi concentration camps, while risking his own life. And, after years of petitioning, Sweden finally declared in 2013 the first official Raoul Wallenberg Day: August 27.
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Volvo car-sharing kicks off / Sweden’s best rest areas / Top 10 summer songs / Nyamko Sabuni new L leader / Uneven gender distribution / Vulnerable unemployment rate / Decreasing employment / Pirate copies cost billions / Teachers fight language tests. The Exchange Rate:
$1.00 = SEK 9.28 (06.28.2019)
JULY 15, 2019 3
dashboard | july 15, 2019
Gofrendly app connects women
Magnus Nilsson will close Fäviken Magasinet while on top. The restaurant run by Nilsson was recently voted Sweden’s best restaurant by the White Guide and has two stars in the French Guide Michelin.
Fäviken Magasinet to close
The renowned two-Michelin starred restaurant in northern Sweden, which is already fully booked for the rest of the year, will serve its last multi-course meal December 14. After 11 years, acclaimed chef Magnus Nilsson is closing Fäviken Magasinet, where he focused on using local and seasonal produce. “I’m just leaving because I want to do other things,” Nilsson told the LA Times. He wants time to get “both physically and mentally fit” and spend his time with family, fishing and gardening.
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) contributors:
Chipp Reid - Ted Olsson - Leif Rosqvist - Kitty Hughes Ulf Kirchdorfer - Valorie Arrowsmith 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
Claudia Gård and Ulrika Lilja.
Two women were looking for new friends and found a market niche that has grown close to 100,000 users in Sweden alone. The first time Gofrendly founders Claudia Gård and Ulrika Lilja met—through a social media forum for female entrepreneurs—was in 2015. Lilja, who had just moved home from San Francisco, and
Gård, a police officer, met for fika and realized they had the same idea: to create a meeting place for women who want to make new friends. Their app, Gofrendly, works by matching users based on factors such as age and geographical location. It was recently expanded with a premium subscription that offers events and experiences at a fixed price. Two years after launch the company has almost 100,000 users in Sweden, and the app recently launched in Oslo and Berlin. Gofrendly’s users in Sweden range in age from 18 to 84, and comments from grateful users are constantly coming in via email, messages on Instagram, Facebook, and sometimes when Lilja and Gård are recognized on the street. It can be women who just changed location, are first in their circle to have children or someone with a new interest who’s looking for like-minded friends. The app is not yet available in the United States; the next market is probably England, but if you are a woman looking for more contacts prior to your Sweden trip, see www.gofrendly.se
Michael La Cour, MD at IKEA Food (left), and Alexander Magnusson, chef and product developer at IKEA Food, try a prototype of a plant based hot dog. The new IKEA veggie hot dog is (reportedly), besides delicious, a more sustainable option for the many people to enjoy when dining at IKEA.
Ikea’s new food concept—plant based and ‘tunnbröd’ Recently, Ikea had a pop-up in Malmö, Sweden to test a brand new fast food concept with a menu that kicks off a Swedish classic: the thin soft flatbread, tunnbröd. “We wanted to find a food concept that works when Ikea expands with smaller stores inside cities. We’ve tested that it also works in practice,” says Alexander Magnusson, chef and product developer at Ikea Food Lab. He’s referring to the so-called city center stores we wrote about this spring that are being established in several big cities around the world and where, according to the Food Lab, good and simple food for on-the-go people is an important part of the concept. Developing food for 400 Ikea stores in 49 countries means the Food Lab team has to find solutions that will fit local taste preferences, different cultures and traditions while still keeping a clear Swedish profile. Tunnbröd is part of Swedish history, which means there is a story to build on. The thin flatbread is made with rye and special wheat flour and seasoned with anise, fennel and coriander seeds and baked in portable pizza ovens. Then it’s filled with cold smoked salmon, a creamy egg salad or with mashed green peas and pea shoots. There is also a sweet version with whipped cream, jam and fresh strawberries. The most popular is still the classic Swedish fast food combination with mashed potatoes, sausage and shrimp salad. For those who are not familiar with typical Swedish food traditions, it may sound like a strange combination, but you’re sure to love it at first taste, according to Magnusson. Try it next time you’re in Sweden, it’s available at most classic so-called gatukök, often belonging to Sibylla or Snabbt & Gott (formerly Scan).
Princess Madeleine of Sweden is a published author. Her first book for children, Stella och hemligheten (“Stella and the Secret”), was published under her family name, Madeleine Bernadotte. The book addresses children’s rights and seeks to empower and encourage them to stand up for themselves. Stella och hemligheten was released in June in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of World Childhood Foundation, the organization founded by the princess’s mother, Queen Silvia; Childhood works to prevent child abuse and provides vital classroom resources, mentor programs and legal services to children in Sweden and around the world. “We are so excited and hope it helps a lot of children have conversations about sensitive issues with their trusted adults,” said Princess Madeleine at a book signing at the Royal Palace’s National Day celebration. For more info, see www.adlibris.com
One in four opt out of air travel According to a survey from Yougov, 25 percent of Swedes are choosing transportation other than flying this summer. At the same time, almost as many never fly or have no holiday at all. According to analysts, it is awareness of air travel’s impact on the climate that has become a decisive factor among people in Sweden. The survey, involving 1,500 randomly selected people, was commissioned by Metro magazine.
Immigrants prouder than Swedes Immigrants from countries such as Somalia and Afghanistan are more proud of Sweden than the Swedish population as a whole, according to a survey from the World Values Survey. The group also celebrates Sweden’s National Day to a greater extent than native Swedes do. The proudest are the Somalis, according to WVS Secretary General Bi Puranen. Being a law-abiding citizen tops the list of things that make you “an ordinary Swede,” according to the survey, which shows 53 percent of non-Europeans are very proud and 24 percent are quite proud of Sweden.
Photo: Johannes Berg
dashboard | july 15, 2019
Swedish companies on the Global Innovation 1000 Several Swedish companies are among the world’s top innovators, according to the 2018 Global Innovation 1000 study. The Global Innovation 1000 study analyzes spending of the world’s 1000 largest publicly listed corporate research and development spenders. At the very top of the list are, not surprisingly, Amazon, with annual R&D investments of $22.6 billion and Google’s parent company Alphabet, with $16.2 billion. Apple, Intel, Microsoft are all among the top 10 as are a mix of pharma and automotive. A
total of 15 Swedish companies are listed: Ericsson is in a global 36th place with R&D investments of $4.63 billion, followed by Volvo Group in 80th place with $2 billion. Automotive safety group Autoliv comes in 210th place. While Ericsson and Volvo Group represent over 60 percent of the total R&D expenditures of the Swedish companies on the list—with $6.63 billion out of a total of $10.6 billion—other well known brands that make the list are Atlas Copco, Electrolux, SKF, Saab, Assa Abloy and Husqvarna.
Fika for Swedes in Mississippi You’re in Hattiesburg, Mississippi—an hour north of Biloxi on the Gulf Coast and the northern corner of a triangle with New Orleans, LA to the west and Mobile, AL to the east—and you’re wondering where to get your next fill of Swedishness? The newest Hattiesburg café, on Buschman Street in the heart of downtown is the recently opened Fika, with clear Swedish attributes and distinctly modern Swedish décor. In case you wondered, Dalida, the owner of Fika, is of course also from Sweden, but locals probably already know that—she’s charming, and first reviews of the café are overwhelmingly positive. The catering service started earlier and immediate comments about the quality of cakes make us want to take off for the South. It is a great place for breakfast and lunch with food that is beautifully displayed and delicious. Fika also serves scrumptious baked goods and locally made pour-over coffee that is smooth and rich. While there, you might even catch up with some Swedes. Cecilia Kjellgren Fika - Swedish Cafe 127 Buschman Street suite 50 Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 336-9071 http://fika-cafe-cafe.business.site
Christer Olsson, outside Fika with his young son Beau, is originally from Kungsängen just north of Stockholm. Like many other renowned Swedish tennis players, he played in Båstad and the Kalle Anka cup (The Donald Duck Cup) as a junior. Here in the U.S. Christer played singles and doubles for the nationally ranked Belhaven College from 1989-1991. He has coached several top ranked juniors on the state and sectional levels, and he played on several state championship teams in Mississippi. He is currently the club tennis pro and director at the Racquet Club of Hattiesburg, MS. (www.theracquetclubofhattiesburg.com) JULY 15, 2019 5
local events
Illinois Chicago 07.13, 9-11 AM Start with Art: Enjoy the exhibit in the main gallery before the museum opens – crafts are set up in the gallery for children to enjoy while grown-ups enjoy the art: A special exhibition of Bengt Lindström’s ar t. Swedish American Museum, 773.728.8111 / museum@samac.org / www.swedishamericanmuseum.org Ongoing Documenting Swedish America - A Setterdahl Family Tradition: Driven by a passion to record as much history as possible, Lennart Setterdahl (19281995) and his family have made prolific contributions to our understanding of Swedish America and Swedish immigration. When Setterdahl first moved to America, he had no idea it would be a permanent move. Soon after, his wife Lilly and their young sons joined him. What followed was a lifetime consumed by a relentless drive to document as much of Swedish America as possible, both its people and organizations, in a race against time as the early generations of Swedish immigrants and their children aged. Through Sept. 29 at Swedish American Museum, 773.728.8111 / museum@samac. org / www.swedishamericanmuseum.org Ongoing The Master of Ancient Mythology: Swedish artist Bengt Lindström (1925-2008) became a world-renowned artist with his signature style of painting portraits with thick, bold colors. His work was influenced by the people of Lapland and he was deeply inspired by the ancient mysterious monsters and deities of Nordic mythology. Lindström was born in Storsjö in western Sweden and began his career as
Massachusetts West Newton 07.22-07.26 STEM+Harry Potter Lego Camp: The two Danish words “leg godt” mean “play well,” the provenance of Lego, founded in Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen. Enjoy a full day of Lego camp, packed with hands-on and minds-on STEM fun! Engineering and wizardry are the focus of this themed camp for Lego fanatics with Platform 9¾, Hogwarts Express Train, even a Norwegian Ridgeback Dragon. Ages 5-10, $400/week. Scandinavian Cultural Center, 617.795.1914, Kerry@scandicenter.org / www.scandicenter.org
Minnesota Minneapolis 07.11, 9 AM-3 PM Viking Day Camp: Sail away to the world of the Vikings – have fun Build Viking ships, learn the geography of the Nordic region and discover the mystery of runestones. For rising 1-5th graders, bring a lunch and wear clothes suitable for outdoor play. Registration required one week before camp. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / info@asimn.org / www. asimn.org 07. 20, 9-11 AM Swedish Hiking Club: Take a skogsbad and practice your Swedish in area parks. We will go for a walk through the woods and stop for fika (bring your own). Each date has a different discussion topic, held på svenska (but is open to all language levels). Inquire with ASI for meeting location, American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / www. asimn.org
SAN FRANCISCO Söndag 8 september kl 11.00
HÖGMÄSSA
i Norska Sjömanskyrkan på Hyde Street San. Vikarierande församlingspräst Mary Philipson och kyrkoherde Hans Bratt Hernberg medverkar. Therese Brewitz pianist. Kyrkkaffe och saft.
Lördag 21 september kl 15.00
MÄSSA
i Los Altos Lutheran Church. Mary Philipson predikar och Therese Brewitz är pianist. Kyrkkaffe och saft. Se Facebook för mer info!
SVENSKA KYRKAN SAN FRANCISCO Norska Sjömanskyrkan, 2454 Hyde Street, San Francisco Tel: 415-632-8504 Epost: sanfrancisco@svenskakyrkan.se Hemsida: www.svenskakyrkan.se/sanfrancisco 6 NORDSTJERNAN
Run like a Viking in Seattle Run Like a Viking: The 4th annual 5K coincides with the Ballard Seafood Fest, on Saturday, July 13. Runners are encouraged to don their Nordic/Viking attire! Prizes will be awarded on race day for best costume, overall winners (male & female), and top age-group winner for both male and female. (Four-legged friends welcome.) Register online: www.runsignup.com/nordic5k. Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / devonk@ nordicmuseum.org / www. nordicmuseum.org 07.20, 10 AM-12 PM How Do You Say Viking in Swedish? Familyfriendly workshop for Swedish learners interested in vocabulary specific to The Vikings Begin exhibit. Spend the first part of class learning Swedish words and phrases related to the Vikings before heading into the exhibit to practice! American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / www.asimn.org 07.24, 6-8 PM Allsång på Skansen (Sing-a-long at Skansen) is a beloved Swedish summer tradition. Watch an Allsång broadcast from Sweden and learn new songs in Swedish. No registration required. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / www.asimn.org 07.26, 9:15-10 AM Babies at the Castle: This “carrier tour” will immerse you and your young one in ASI’s newest exhibition, The Vikings Begin. Tours are about 30 minutes plus 15 minutes of sensory play. $15/babies up to 15 months with their grown-up. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / www.asimn.org 07.31, 7 PM Swedish author Julie Lindahl gives a talk titled “Contemporary Issues in Sweden.” Free with registration: 612.871.4907, American Swedish Institute / www. asimn.org 08.07, 6:30-8:30 PM Nordic Table Workshop - Quick Pickling for Summer: Summer is the perfect time to get started with quick pickling, an easy and fast way to extend the life of produce while adding new flavors to warm weather meals. Join Nordic Table instructor Anna Sharratt to gain some tips for quick pickle preparation, taste examples of the finished pickles, and discover new inspiration (from Scandinavia and elsewhere) for adding sweet, sour and salty balance to your summer meal rotation. You’ll leave with lots of ideas for your Nordic-inspired pantry. Come ready for this hands-on class
Photo courtesy of the National Nordic Museum
Local Events
a student at the Art Institute of Chicago in 1946, where he painted his first sketches, now part of this exhibit. Through Sept. 22 at the Swedish American Museum, 773.728.8111 / museum@samac.org / www.swedishamericanmuseum.org
and light shared meal. $45/ members, $55/non-members. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / www.asimn.org 08.07, 6:30-8:30 PM Craft and Cocktails Series - Crayfish Party Decorations: Bring a friend, get a drink and settle into ASI’s studio arts classroom for a fun and relaxed evening of creating your own vibrant set of paper decorations inspired by the kräftskiva, or Swedish Crayfish Party. Make party hats, paper lanterns and other tabletop decorations to set a traditional Swedish kräftskiva scene. $35/members, $40/non-members includes a drink from FIKA café and all class materials. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / info@asimn.org / www. asimn.org 08.08, 9 AM-3 PM Viking Day Camp: Sail away to the world of the Vikings – have fun Build Viking ships, learn the geography of the Nordic region and discover the mystery of runestones. For rising 1-5th graders, bring a lunch and wear clothes suitable for outdoor play. Registration required one week before camp. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / info@asimn.org / www. asimn.org 08.11, 3-5 PM Intro to Swedish: If you are you curious about learning the Swedish language but can’t commit to a multi-date class, or you are looking for a quick and low-pressure way to get excited and prepare for an upcoming visit to Sweden, this two-hour intro workshop is the perfect opportunity to pick up a little grammar and learn how to pronounce some words as part of basic conversation (also offered Sept. 15 and Oct .13). American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / info@asimn.org / www. asimn.org
local events
Late summer means it’s time for crayfish parties
Guessing most of you will pass on the surströmming (fermented herring, of Sweden’s north), which per tradition premieres on the third Thursday of August, or the ålagillen (eel banquets) of the south, we’ll suggest you do try to experience a kräftskiva, a traditional Swedish crayfish party. Celebrating crayfish goes back to the 1500s when the lakes of Sweden teemed with the fresh food (among other tasty delicacies). Nowadays the month of August starts with the premier of the crayfish, AKA “kräftpremiär,” on August 8. Crayfish season may be short, but it is probably the most popular, beginning two weeks ahead of surströmming season (yes, even the world’s smelliest fish has its own season) and the “dark days of eel” (ålamörkret). A proper crayfish party includes crayfish with lots of salt and dill, snaps, special decorations and hopefully a full moon. It often includes crisp bread and cheese, and some important rituals, such as drinking snaps by the sip (“nubbe”). It’s usually more important to sing (loudly) than to actually drink a lot of snaps, which is also served ice cold and straight up in shot glasses. Make plans for your own kräftskiva or RSVP to one of these local *parties: PHILADELPHIA—Aug. 16, 6:30 PM: Annual Crayfish Party in the lighted tent outside the American Swedish Historical Museum / www. americanswedish.org SEATTLE—Aug. 16, 6 PM: Summer Crayfish Party at the Nordic Museum’s East Garden / www.nordicmuseum.org MINNEAPOLIS—Aug. 23, 6:30 PM: Kräftskiva 2019 in the ASI’s outdoor courtyard / www.asimn.org CLEVELAND—Aug. 24, 6 PM: 13th annual SACC-Ohio kräftskiva at the Boulder Creek Golf Course in Streetsboro / 216.403.8945 / www. sacc-ohio.org *More crayfish parties are happening in September, too. Check our online calendar at www.nordstjernan.com/calendar and if you know of one, please submit it to the free online calendar to let everyone know.
Ongoing The Vikings Begin: See the highly anticipated exhibit of 1400-year-old artifacts from the early Viking Age, on view for the first time in the Midwest at American Swedish Institute through October. 612.871.4907 / www.asimn.org Scandia 07.23-07.24, 10 AM-3 PM Comin’ to Amerika: Kids get a delightful opportunity to explore what it may have been like to grow up in an immigrant family in the mid 1800s. They assume Swedish names and homeland identities as they prepare to make their passage to America. They put together passports, make their way through Ellis Island and create a lifestyle with make-shift homes and families, and do chores and activities typical of this era. Register by July 15, $40/members, $50/nonmembers: mimcam222@gmail.com. Gammelgården Museum, 651.383.7351 / www.gammelgardenmuseum.org 07.25 & 08.22 4th Thursday Smörgåsbord: Get a tour of the museum and enjoy a traditional Swedish meal - for groups of all sizes. Featuring Swedish meatballs and gravy, parsley buttered boiled potatoes, a cheese plate, herring in wine sauce, Scandinavian coleslaw, pickled beets, fresh fruit, bread basket, dessert, coffee and lemonade. RSVP two weeks ahead: 651.433.5053 / info@gammelgardenmuseum.org Also on the 4th Thursday of September.
Gammelgården Museum, 651.383.7351 / media@gammelgardenmuseum.org / www.gammelgardenmuseum.org 08.17, 10 AM-4 PM Spelmansstämma: The Immigrant Fiddle Fest is a long held Swedish tradition where fiddlers gather on a lovely day, play tunes and teach each other new music. The music has never been written, it is always shared by playing only! This annual festival held on the museum grounds is a great activity for families. Spelman = Fiddler / Stämma = Gathering Celebrate the immigrant fiddle with musical entertainment, dancing and food! Gammelgården Museum, 651.383.7351 / media@gammelgardenmuseum.org / www.gammelgardenmuseum.org Ongoing The attic stores immigration stories: Gammelgården’s Attic exhibit hosts a wide variety of items that are relevant to telling the story of Swedish immigration and settlement. Many are on display in the Passage Room of the Välkommen Hus where they can be enjoyed and help tell the story of immigration. Gammelgarden Museum, 651.383.7351 / www.gammelgardenmuseum.org
New York Corning New Glass Now: The special exhibition features works by 100 living glass artists, including Kosta Boda artists and others in Sweden’s “glass country” as well as JULY 15, 2019 7
local events Denmark, Finland and around the world. Through January 2020 at The Corning Museum of Glass, 607.937.5371 / www. cmog.org Jamestown 07.19 - 07.21 Scandinavian Folk Festival: Three days of folk dancers and musicians, ring dancing, head wreaths, dance instruction, exhibits, food and more! 716-665-0883 / dsandy@netsync.net / www.scandinavianjamestown.org / www. facebook.com/ScandinavianFolkFest. New York 07.11, 7:30 PM Summer Jazz Series: Norwegian guitarist and composer Jostein Gulbrandsen joins Mike McGuirk (bass) and Ronen Itzik (drums). Known for a melodic style that is also complex and harmonically rich, Gulbrandsen blends Scandinavian heritage with American jazz and blues. Come early for the pre-reception on the Volvo Hall Terrace at 7 p.m. Scandinavia House, 212.847.9729 / www.scandinaviahouse. org 07.30, 6-7 PM Nordic Book Club: Discuss A Change Of Time by Ida Jessen. Through winding diary entries, this novel pieces together the life of a school teacher in rural Denmark after her husband dies in the early 20th century. Scandinavia House, 212.779.3587 / www. scandinaviahouse.org
Oregon Portland 07.05, 7-10 PM Nordic Heritage Soccer Night: Enjoy a great night of soccer as the two-time NWSL champion Portland Thorns take on their Cascadia rival, Reign FC at Providence Park. A portion of the ticket proceeds goes to support Nordic Northwest’s mission. $20. Nordic Northwest, 503.977.0275 / lailas@nordicnorthwest.org / www. nordicnorthwest.org 07.09, 6:30 -9 PM Complete Songs of Edvard Grieg: Soprano Laura Loge and pianist Knut Erik Jensen collaborate with the Northwest Edvard Grieg Society, Resonance at SOMA Towers and Nordic Northwest, with the music of the mountains at the sæter (summer farm). $20-$25, $5/arts for all. Nordic Northwest, 503.977.0275 / lailas@nordicnorthwest. org / www.nordicnorthwest.org 07.12, 5-9 PM Opening night for Design Play with Joel Henriques: See the whimsical art of Joel Henriques which focuses on his oeuvre of toys, craft and fine art. His work explores the connection between visual and emotional responses to playful, positive, functional design and how it helps us live more joyfully artful lives. Through October 31 at Nordic Northwest, 503.977.0275 / www.nordicnorthwest.org
8 NORDSTJERNAN
07.13, 6:30 -9 PM 4th Annual Herring Dinner: Join us on the lawn at Nordia House for a smörgåsbord featuring herring in a variety of sauces, new potatoes with lots of dill, cucumber salad and, of course, Swedish meatballs. $65/members, $75/non-members. Nordic Northwest, 503.977.0275 / lailas@nordicnorthwest.org / www. nordicnorthwest.org 07.17, 5-7 PM Summer Series: Wine Wednesdays bring Oregon wines with Nordic connections to your tastebuds. Sit on the patio and taste great regional wines and light refreshments with other Scandifile wine lovers. Other dates are August 14 and September 18. 503.977.0275 / www.nordicnorthwest.org 07.21, 6-9 PM Varelse Concert & Dance: Nyckelharpa, fiddle, six-string guitar and various hand percussion instruments come together to create a groove and sound that is simultaneously old and new. Weaving together the Scandinavian folk tradition with several other rhythmic traditions, Varelse is pushing the boundaries of folk fusion. Dancing welcome! $15-$20, $5/ arts for all. Nordic Northwest, 503.977.0275 / lailas@nordicnorthwest.org / www. nordicnorthwest.org Through July 8 From Sweden to Oregon, the immigrant experience: By 1930, one in 10 immigrants in Oregon was a Swede. This exhibit follows the Swedish immigrants to Oregon and reveals what became of their lives, hopes and dreams. Through July 8 at Nordic Northwest, 503.977.0275 / lailas@nordicnorthwest.org / www. nordicnorthwest.org 08.14, 5-7 PM A new summer series at Nordia House in Portland is what you’ve been waiting for: Wine Wednesdays bring Oregon wines with Nordic connections to your tastebuds. Sit on the patio and taste great regional wines and light refreshments with other Scandifile wine lovers. Also September 18. 503.977.0275 / www.nordicnorthwest.org
Pennsylvania 07.11, 5:30-8 PM Summer Concert - Jenny Lind’s America: Soprano and Harpist Zoe Vandermeer and New York pianist/conductor Richard Nechamkin present a delightful potpourri of songs and arias sung by the great Swedish Nightingale during her American tour in 1850-1852. Enjoy music composed for Miss Lind, Welsh triple harp and piano solos featuring music dedicated to Jenny Lind, a rousing 1850 vocal version of the Jenny Lind Polka, and her favorite opera arias. Reception starts at 5:30 p.m. $25/members, $30/non-members. Preregistration is encouraged. American Swedish Historical Museum, 215.389.1776 / info@americanswedish.org / www. americanswedish.org
Jenny Lind’s America
Summer concert on July 11—Jenny Lind’s America: Soprano and harpist Zoe Vandermeer and New York pianist/conductor Richard Nechamkin present a delightful potpourri of songs and arias sung by the great Swedish Nightingale during her American tour in 1850-1852. Enjoy music composed for Miss Lind, Welsh triple harp and piano solos featuring music dedicated to Jenny Lind, a rousing 1850 vocal version of the Jenny Lind Polka, and her favorite opera arias. Reception starts at 5:30 p.m. $25/members, $30/non-members. Pre-registration is encouraged. American Swedish Historical Museum, 215.389.1776 / info@americanswedish.org / www. americanswedish.org
Celebrating Vasa Park’s 66th Anniversary in 2019
You’re Invited to the 40th Annual
Scandinavian Day Festival
Come Enjoy Danish, Finnish, Icelandic, Norwegian & Swedish Culture, Heritage and Traditions at Beautiful 25-Acre Vasa Park, located along the Fox River
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2019 NOTE NEW TIME: 10 AM to 5 PM Presented by The Scandinavian Day Festival Committee at
VASA PARK, 35W217 Route 31, South Elgin, Illinois 60177
7 Miles South of I-90 Northwest Tollway & 5 Miles North of IL Rt. 64 North Avenue
Enjoy a Late Summer Day with Traditional Food, Crafts, Games, Gifts & Entertainment Celebrating the Five Nordic Cultures and Heritage
FREE PARKING * Adults $10 * Children 12 & Under FREE ENJOY DELICIOUS SCANDINAVIAN FOOD PLUS SCANDINAVIAN & AMERICAN ENTERTAINMENT
RAIN OR SHINE - Park Hotline 847-695-6720
Visit our Websites to Learn About This and Other Scandinavian Park Events at www.vasaparkil.com and www.scandinaviandayil.com
local events
Crafts and Cocktails: Get ready for crayfish party season Bring a friend, get a drink and settle into ASI’s studio arts classroom on August 7 for a fun evening of creating your own set of paper decorations inspired by the kräftskiva, or Swedish Crayfish Party. Come at 6:30 and make party hats, paper lanterns and other tabletop decorations to take home for your traditional Swedish kräftskiva scene. $35/members, $40/ non-members includes a drink from FIKA café and all materials. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / info@asimn.org / www.asimn.org Photo: Carolina Romare/imagebank.sweden.se
08.01, 10 AM Nordic Stories - The Three Vikings – This story, by Adam Auerbach, comes alive through storytelling and fun craft projects. Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / www. nordicmuseum.org 08.15, 6-8 PM Studio 54 Trivia Night Join us for a fun evening with some 70s trivia in honor of our exhibit Studio 54. Hasse Persson, one of Sweden’s most well-known photographers, was one of the very few who was permitted to photograph inside the legendary Studio 54 in the 1970s. Persson also photographed other iconic events during the same time frame. Grab a drink in Café Freya and join us for some trivia. Free, drinks and admission to the Museum not included. Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / www.nordicmuseum.org
Ongoing Outdoor Adventures: Explore the history of Nordic navigation, compasses and the modern-day sport of orienteering in this exhibit with Swedish roots. Through September 22 at Swedish American Historical Museum, 215.389.1776 / info@americanswedish.org / www. americanswedish.org
Ongoing Hasse Persson’s Studio 54: Photographs from the late 1970s and early ’80s New York nightclub are on exhibit until August 25. Persson is one of Sweden’s most respected photographers who also worked as a news photographer in the U.S. from 1967-1990, capturing everything from presidential campaigns to the decadent Studio 54 in New York. Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / www.nordicmuseum.org
Seattle 07.11, 6-8 PM Dance, Drink and Studio 54: The hustle ruled the dance floor in the 70s when Studio 54 ruled New York! Come and learn the hustle and enjoy a drink and an after-hour viewing of the exhibit Studio 54. No dance experience necessary. $20/members, $25/general admission (includes 1 drink, 21+ with ID). Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / devonk@nordicmuseum.org / www. nordicmuseum.org
Studio 54 Photographs in Seattle
07.18, 6-8 PM Brewing Traditional Nordic Farmhouse Beers: Join Mika Laitinen, author of Viking Age Brew, and Jereme Zimmerman, author of Make Mead Like a Viking and Brew Beer Like a Yeti for a discussion on the history, tradition, and technique of brewing Nordic ales. They will also provide an overview of beer history and beer styles in the Nordic regions and their methods for researching the information in their books. $10-$15, Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / devonk@nordicmuseum.org / www. nordicmuseum.org
07.27, 6-9 PM SmörgåsBeer: Enjoy regional and international beer while sampling traditional Swedish food with a modern twist SmörgåsBeer party goers can alo play trivia and lawn games in the park as well as a traditional Swedish “tipsrunda” or quiz walk through the museum. Prizes for fun experiences will also be raffled throughout the evening. $30/advance and $35/at the door, $15/designated driver. General admission includes a commemorative event sampling glass.In FDR Park with Swedish American Historical Museum, 215.389.1776 / info@americanswedish.org / www.americanswedish.org
Washington
Hasse Persson’s photographs from the late 1970s and early ’80s New York nightclub are on exhibit at the National Nordic Museum in Seattle through August 25. For more info, see www.nordicmuseum.org
nordic5k. Nordic Museum, 206.789.5707 / devonk@nordicmuseum.org / www. nordicmuseum.org
07.13, 9 AM Run Like a Viking: The 4th annual 5K coincides with the Ballard Seafood Fest. Runners are encouraged to don their Nordic/Viking attire! Prizes will be awarded on race day for best costume, overall winners (male & female), and top age-group winner for both male and female. (Four-legged friends welcome.) Register online: www.runsignup.com/
Wisconsin Stoughton 07.27, 9 AM The Stoughton Kubb Invitational: Registration begins at 8 a.m. and play starts at 9. The tournament is for 2-to 6-person teams. Register by filling out the online form, $40/adult team, free/ teams with players aged 12 and under. Cash prizes and trophies for top finishing teams! At John Nygaard Virgin Lake Park, stoughtonkubb@gmail.com / www. kubbunited.com/stoughton
Do you know about an upcoming event in Swedish America? Submit it any time to our online calendar at www.nordstjernan.com/ calendar JULY 15, 2019 9
local events
the most popular films and tv shows from sweden
swedish dvd releases Order Swedish language movies on DVD. All videos are in the original language with English subtitles.
Summer slöjd for youth 19.95
ed: $
educ
r Price
Becoming Astrid: About the life of the creator of Pippi Longstocking, Sweden’s beloved author Astrid Lindgren.
Immerse yourself and family in swedishness with the latest dvd releases from Sweden.
Join the American Swedish Institute for a Wednesday afternoon Summer Slöjd Youth Handcraft class. Inspired by the Swedish tradition of slöjd, or handcraft, young makers will make beautiful and useful objects while working with new and natural materials and recycled elements. This drop-off program is suitable for kids and teens who are entering grades 2-9. Space is limited, so pre-registration is encouraged: for July 10, 17, 24, 31 and/or August 7. American Swedish Institute, 612.871.4907 / info@asimn.org / www.asimn.org
Augusta’s Daughter
Becoming Astrid $29.95 = _______ A Man Called Ove ($29.95) $19.95 = _______ The Last Sentence $29.95 = _______ The 100 Year Old Man ($29.95) $19.95 = _______ The Dragon Tattoo Trilogy Extended Boxed Set $39.95 = _______ Wallander Series 2 Boxed Set ($74.95) $59.95 = _______ Max Manus: Man of War (in Norwegian) $19.95 = _______
Please send me:
Ever wonder what made so many emigrate from Sweden in the nineteenth century? Judit Martin’s novel, “Augusta’s Daughter,” about 19th century Swedish peasant life made such an impression on us, we decided to offer it to the Nordstjernan readership. call 1.800.827.9333 for your own copy ($24.90 incl. S&H to continental U.S.).
Total = _______
Incl. S&H (in continental U.S.)
Name ____________________________________
Address __________________________________ City, State, Zip ______________________________ Telephone Number ___________________________ Check enclosed payable to Nordstjernan
Please charge my credit card:
Card # ________________________ Exp. Date: ___ / ___ / ___ Signature ___________________________ scc Code: ______ Mail order form to:
NORDSTJERNAN P.O. Box 1710 New Canaan, CT 06840 or call 1.800.827.9333 Ext. 10
10 NORDSTJERNAN
National archives and library for Swedish-American historical research Publishers of Swedish American Genealogist 639 38th Street Rock Island, IL | 61201-2296 309-794-7204
www.augustana.edu/ swenson
Through
NORDSTJERNAN 1.800.827.9333 Ext 10
local events
Ocean Plastics at the Röhsska Museum
Design’s ability to influence the future It is estimated that in 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean. With the exhibition Ocean Plastics, which opened in June, the Röhsska Museum wants to highlight how designers consider possibilities and materials of the future through various design projects. Marine littering is one of the major environmental issues of our time. Scientists have identified the problems caused by pollution but they alone cannot solve them. This is where design can contribute. Today, designers are becoming alchemists, scientists, activists, and social entrepreneurs. Their involvement stems from interdisciplinary analysis, a collaborative spirit and a belief in design’s ability to contribute to the solution, rather than the problem. “With the exhibition Ocean Plastics we want to highlight questions relating to environmental issues by presenting design projects which address plastic pollution through questioning our relationship to the sea, presenting strategies for cleaning up the oceans, recycling existing plastics and exploring the potentials of bio-plastics,” says Johan Deurell, curator at the Röhsska Museum.
Design is everywhere
A basis for shifting consumer patterns and public opinion is that individuals have access to knowledge as well as different kinds of capital. That is why an important part of the work with the exhibition as well as its design has been to raise the issues in an intriguing way in the spirit of popular education. “With Röhsska’s message that “Design is Everywhere” the museum also says that products and materials have a great impact on nature and our climate. Ocean Plastics highlights the widespread use of plastics today and the various ways in which design and innovation unite in the efforts to come up with alternative design solutions and new materials in relation to us consumers,” says Nina Due, Museum Director at the Röhsska Museum.
About the exhibition:
Ocean Plastics presents a selection of design concepts and consumer
products: from massproduced industrial design to exclusive artisanal goods, sports fashion, print and films. The exhibition spans two floors and is divided into four themes: Plastics and the ocean: In this part of the exhibition the museum as collaborated with the Chalmers University of Technology and The Keep Sweden Tidy Foundation to explore how plastics are used and how they end up in the ocean. Blue humanities: By highlighting fundamental questions about who and what we are, creators hope to blur the distinction between humans and the sea. Staying with the Trouble: Through interdisciplinary collaboration, designers explore the possibilities and the commercial potential in collecting and recycling plastic waste. From Cradle to Cradle: Since many synthetic plastics never were designed to be burned or reused in a safe way, designers explore biodegradable materials and bioplastics.
Participating designers: Adidas and Parley for the Ocean, Ramin Bahrani, Formfantasma, Ina Johansson Lidman and Dave Hakkens, Jessica den Hartog, Malmö Upcycling Service, Roos Meerman, Christian Meindertsma and Label/Breed, Ocean CleanUp, Optimist for Havet, Aurore Piette, Snњhetta and NCP, Basse Stittgen, Studio Swine, Margarita Talep, Yesenia Thibault-Picazo. Collaborators: the Chalmers University of Technology, The Keep Sweden Tidy Foundation, Kvadrat and Stena Recycling. The exhibition runs from June 15th, 2019 to January 5th, 2020. For more info, call +46.(0)31.3683150 or see www.rohsska.se
Svensk 2019 Hyllningsfest October 18 & 19
Visit Lindsborg
www.SvenskHyllningsfest.org
Travel Questions? 888.227.2227 www.VisitLindsborg.com JULY 15, 2019 11
local events
Celebrate Scandinavian heritage In Jamestown, NY on July 19-21 Scandinavian Folk Festival kicks off at the Jamestown Community College at 1 p.m. on July 19. Scandinavian food, catered by 3C’s from their food truck, includes Swedish meatballs, rice pudding, rotmos, brown beans, yellow pea soup, and the American Scandinavian Heritage Foundation will serve Norm’s world famous korvburgers. The Kafffe Stuga will have coffee, goodies and strawberry sundaes; Danish beer will be available along with wine. A variety of vendors offer gifts, decorations, craft and baked goods. A comprehensive exhibit of Scandinavian folk costumes will be on display as will a major collection of antique Swedish dolls. Crafters will demonstrate and offer workshops on Swedish weaving, carving, spinning and Norwegian knitting. Saturday’s festivities start at 10 a.m. with the decoration of the Maypole (bring flowers from your garden) and the making of Midsummer head wreaths. Then Swedish folk dancers and musicians lead the procession of
the Midsummer pole at 11 a.m. After the 18-foot pole is in place, it is time for traditional ring dancing. No experience required! Just follow the leader, instruction is provided. Special lectures are interspersed throughout the weekend. Discover information about the Swedish Colony of 1638-1655, the Swedish language, genealogy, folk costumes, rare Swedish dolls, the Viking Drum and Bugle Corp, Astrid Lindgren and the Vikings in North America. The Thule Folk Dance Team will share stories of their recent trip to Sweden, and a winner of the Swedish reality television show “Allt för Sverige” tells his story. There’s also the Finnish wife carrying contest, the Scandinavian trivia competition, a kubb tournament, a cooking contest and even a loppis (flea market). Friday, July 19: 1-9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 20: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday, July 21: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information and event times, see www.scandinavianjamestown.org or call 716.665.0883
Entertainment this year includes the Swedish Meatballs from NYC, Simple Gifts (left), a string duet from Pennsylvania, The Probables, a rhythmdriven, folkcana/roots rock band from Jamestown (8 p.m. Friday). Another highlight is folk dancing by the Toronto Swedish Folk Dance Team (top) and the Jamestown Thule Lodge Adult and Children’s Swedish Folk Dance Teams. Other local performers include Svenska Spelmän, the Viking Mixed Chorus, comedian Peter Hofert, and The Vasa Voices from Cleveland.
In Budd Lake, NJ on September 1 The majestic trees and rolling hills of Vasa Park in Budd Lake, New Jersey make a rustic, beautiful site for the 35th annual ScanFest festival, the largest Scandinavian celebration in the Northeast, on September 1. Enjoy performances of traditional dancers, Scandinavian songs and soloists, and the music of accordions and bands. More than 40 different vendors offer such things as handknit sweaters, rosemaling, jewelry, carved wood pieces and other items. Sample ethnic (and American) foods. Lines form early and long in front of the Swedish pancake and lingonberry booth. Sample Norwegian ice cream, pea soup, blueberry soup and Swedish meatballs, plus scads of pastries and breads ... it would seem where the food is, the true Scandinavian heart rests also. This year includes performances from the Westminster Conservatory of Music, the Not Club of NYC, the sax ensemble Spirit of Scandinavia, Scandinavian Women’s Chorus of Rhode Island, Smörgåsbandet and 12 NORDSTJERNAN
many more. There will be field performances by the Nordic wrestlers Telge Glima showcasing old Viking contests, Norse ax throwing, grazing reindeer and the annual wife-carrying contest. Skansen Children’s Club will perform as will the Estonian folkdance group Pillerkaar. From its very beginning, Scanfest celebrated the cultures of six countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, encouraging native dress among visitors (wearers admitted free!) and authentic programs. There are children’s activities throughout the day, including appearances by Clarence the Clown, mock turtle marionettes and hands-on demonstrations. The festival is Sunday, September 1 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at New Jersey’s Vasa Park, 1 Wolfe Road in Budd Lake in the Skylands Region, a little over an hour from Manhattan by car. For information, contact info@ scanfest.org, 610.417.1483 or see www.ScanFest.org
The New Jersey heritage festival celebrates the cultures and contributions of the extended Nordic region. Food, entertainment, crafts, gifts, kids’ activities, re-enactors, demonstrating artisans, exhibitors, field arena contests, Vikings and ... the annual North American wife-carrying contest.
local events
InBox
Vi fick i juni en insändare av Rolf Larsson, IL som fått ett utdrag ur en svensk tidning av en god vän i Sverige. Det är en krönika av Irma Kjellin i okänd tidskrift i Sverige. Vi hoppas Irma och den tidning det ursprungligen publicerades i kan acceptera att vi nu publicerar den i Nordstjernan. Vi sökte förgäves efter den ursprungliga inslaget och vår läsare i Illinois har varit på resa sedan dess. I vilket fall, tack Rolf, för en tänkvärd insändare och medföljande krönika!
Vi hade inget “miljötänk” förr
Jag skulle betala på mataffären häromdagen och den unga kassörskan föreslog att jag skulle ta med egna kassar eftersom plastkassar inte är bra för miljön. Jag bad om ursäkt och förklarade att vi inte hade det här miljötänket i våra dagar. Kassörskan svarade att det är problemet. “Er generation brydde sig inte tillräckligt för att bevara miljön till kommande generation.” Hon hade förstås rätt i sak, vår generation hade inte miljötänket på “vår tid.” Men, vad hade vi? Då hade vi mjölkflaskor som vi lämnade tillbaka, läskflaskor som vi pantade. Butiken skickade tillbaka dem till tillverkaren som tvättade dem och återanvände dem. Så de återanvändes flera gånger. Men, vi hade inget miljötänk. Vi gick i trappor, för det fanns inte hiss eller rulltrappor i alla affärer, skolor och företagsbyggnader. Vi gick till affären för att handla, vi tog inte bilen varje gång vi skulle förflytta oss några hundra meter. Men kassörskan hade rätt. Vi hade inget miljötänk. Då tvättade vi blöjor för att det inte fanns engångsblöjor. Vi torkade våra kläder på linor, inte i ett energiförbrukande monster. Sol och vindkraft torkade våra kläder. Barnen ärvde kläder från sina syskon, inte alltid det senaste märket. Men kassörskan hade rätt. Vi hade inget miljötänk då. På den tiden startade vi aldrig en bensinslukande motor för att klippa gräset, vi sköt gräsklipparen för hand. Vi motionerade genom att arbeta så vi behövde aldrig gå till ett gym som använder elmaskiner såsom löpband och trappmaskiner. Men kassörskan hade rätt. Vi hade inget miljötänk. På den tiden åkte folk buss, barnen cyklade eller gick till skolan istället för att göra föräldrarna till en taxirörelse. Vi hade en enda TV eller radio i hemmet, inte en i varje rum. Tv-apparaten hade en liten skärm ungefär som en näsduk i början, inte som halva Gotland. Vi behövde inte ha en smartphone som skickar datasignaler 2000 mil ut i rymden för att hitta närmaste pizzeria. Är det inte lite sorgligt hur dagens generation beklagar sig över hur slösaktiga den äldre generationen vara bara för att vi inte hade “miljötänk”?
Kära Editor, Tusen tack! Jag är så glad att ni använde min artikel om Forn Sed. Ni gjorde det så bra med bilderna! I should have proofread things better but I’m a procrastinator and was lucky to get the article written at all. Det gick bra I Uppsala, som ni kanske sett. Är det här första gången den svensk-aemrikanska pressen talar om Forn Sed/Asatro. Det kan mycket väl vara så. Åter igen tack, vi ses! Många hälsningar Jay Stratton, NY Tack själv Jay, det kändes helt rätt och kul för oss att kunna publicera din artikel och sedan bygga på med lite mer allmän information om Asatro och den nordiska gudasagan. Precis som du själv påpekar i artikeln upphör inte de gamla gudagestalterna att fascinera och intressera också människor i det 21:a århundradet. Det är ju mycket av asatro som bygger just på naturfenomen och människans upplevelse av sina omgivningar - årstider, väder och livscykel. Roligt vårblotet blev en sådan framgång, med rekordmånga som deltog och ett efterföljande jubileumsgille med gäster från övriga Norden och Tyskland. /Ed.
DISTRICT LODGE CONNECTICUT # 1
SURF and TURF FEST (Prime Rib & Lobster)
Sunday, August 25, 2019, Noon - 6:00 p. m.
VASA PARK
358 Main Street, Meriden, CT Host Lodge: Diana Birger Jarl # 3
Entertainment by SMÖRGÅSBANDET Park opens: Noon Dinner served:2:00 P.M.
Menu: Lobster, Prime Rib, Baked potato,Corn on the Cob, Coleslaw and Dessert. All dinners include dessert and beverage. Cash bar, beer and wine bvy the glass
PS. I Sverige behöver du inte gå tillbaks mycket mer än 40-50 år för att hitta det mesta av Irmas beskrivning. /DS
Reservations with payment are required by Aug. 16, 2019 Contact phone: 203-668-9546 e-mail: jpoleary38@gmail.com Mail to: Jane Reed, 4 Reskin Dr., Wallingford, CT 06492
Augusta’s Daughter Ever wonder what made so many emigrate from Sweden in the nineteenth century? Judit Martin’s novel, “Augusta’s Daughter,” about 19th century Swedish peasant life made such an impression on us, we decided to offer it to the Nordstjernan readership. call 1.800.827.9333 for your own copy ($24.90 incl. S&H to cont. U.S.). The sequel,
Kajsa
was just released. The story of 15-year-old Elsa-Carolina’s illegitimate daughter Kajsa,who was cast out into the world from a foster home at the age of 8.
Please send me ____ book(s) “Augusta’s Daugheter” x $24.90 = _______ Please send me ____ book(s) “Kajsa” x $24.90 =
Incl. S&H (in continental U.S.)
_______
Total: _________
Name Address City State Zip Tel. m Check enclosed payable to Nordstjernan m Please charge my credit card: Card# Signature
Exp. Date:
/
SSC Code:
Mail to: Nordstjernan, P.O. Box 1710, New Canaan CT 06840
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Photo: Jakob Edholm
Ö till Ö
synergy in sweden Q&A with Helen Wikmar and Emma Wanberg
Picture this: Trail running across the islands of Stockholm’s archipelago and swimming through the warm waters surrounding them. It sounds idyllic. But competing in the Ötillö (“Island to island”) Swimrun, leaves little time for you to be admiring the scenery. Helen Wikmar and Emma Wanberg can testify to that. We spoke to Helen and Emma about their story, Synergy in Sweden, to understand more about the Ötillö Swimrun, the challenge that has competitors swim and run a combined distance of 75km, tied together by a rope. It’s the ultimate test of endurance. Swimrunning is an event many people are unfamiliar with. Can you tell us more about it? Helen: You swim in and run between lakes, oceans, islands or bays. Often you do this as a team of two and during the Ötillö Swimrun, you are tied to your teamie by a rope. Ötillö is the origin of the swimrun movement. The jewel in the crown. Competitors swim and run from island to island, over a route that stretches across Stockholm’s archipelago. In total, it’s 10km of open-water swimming and 65km of trail running. I love swimrunning because unlike marathons, triathlons or Ironman races, Ötillö is more than a race, it’s an unpredictable adventure. 14 NORDSTJERNAN
In your opinion, what makes the Ötillö World Championship such a tough race? Helen: The distances! 65km running, and especially the 20km on the Ornö is very challenging. However, the sections of the 10km are fairly short and broken up. The longest swim is 1700m and compared to some of the other races that is reasonable. Emma: Because it’s such an intense race, too, you have to be very upfront about decisions and thoughts, you simply don’t have time for mismatched communication during the race. There is quite a lot of pressure to get that right, so it makes the race tough in that respect too. Ötillö is quite unique in the fact that you compete as pairs, tethered together by a rope. How does that affect performance? Helen: The rope is definitely an advantage for us. We use the rope throughout the race, for the swimming and running parts—some teams don’t use it the whole time but we find it quite helpful. The rope connects us as a team and just seeing the rope connecting me to Emma makes me feel stronger! Emma: From the first time we met, the communication between Helen and me was very honest and
straightforward. We can explain our thoughts and emotions in a very easy way which is one of our biggest advantages as a team. It makes us take fast decisions and balance each other out when suffering dips during long races. And the rope is a physical connection which helps with that as well. Why do you think companionship and teamwork can take your capacity for endurance to new levels? Helen: I think because you have to continue pushing yourself as much and as hard as you can so you don’t let your teamie down. In an individual sport the only one you’re going to let down is yourself so in some ways it’s easier to push yourself less. Emma: Absolutely, in a race that lasts six to 10 hours, you need to understand your limits and your teamie’s limits and how to push through them. You need to know how to handle lows in order to optimise the team’s effort. How do you cope with the inevitable lows of a race, when competing as a pair? Helen: This is the worst scenario. I can get really low when I notice I’m struggling but my teamie is having the time of her life, and the same if my teamie struggles. Continues on page 16
Photo: Private JULY 15, 2019 15
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feature This happened to me and Emma during the race, not too soon after we’d set off. We’d just got to the first cut-off point when Emma revealed that her knee was giving her a lot of pain. This resulted in my first mental dip of the day. I thought, “good, let’s quit. Emma is in too much pain.” But Emma showed no sign of giving up. With over five hours left to run, she fought. And so I had to step up my game so I didn’t let her down. You have to listen to each other and be humble to the fact that anything can happen in a race. I think I’m good at talking to my partners to keep them positive when something goes wrong, as well. You don’t have the same control as you have in an individual sport. But the feeling of accomplishing something difficult together as a team is magical, and it’s worth the lows you might experience along the way. Emma: It’s about pushing each other as well. Taking the lead when you know the other person is struggling, as Helen did with me when my knee began to hurt. And there is always a chance to return the favor, as I did toward the end of the race when I noticed Helen struggling. How do you mentally prepare for a race of this magnitude? Helen: I don’t do any specific mental training. But I make sure I have done everything I can to be as satisfied as possible with myself at the start line. I don’t want to have any doubts at that stage. You have to trust your capacity and your effort up to this point. You have to rely on all the training and effort you have put in! You make sure you have a good plan for the race, that you and your teamie have the same goal, that you are prepared ahead of the running and swimming sections and you go through all your gear and have a solid nutrition plan. Then it’s just the last part left—to do your thing, the best you can on that day. Helen, you mentioned how you were initially anxious about being the less experienced swimrunner. How do you see the partnership between you and Emma now? Helen: I think we are a very good team, and I am a bit more confident in my swimrun experiences now. We complement each other very well. We are both fairly good swimmers. I would still say Emma is a better runner than me, but I can also say I’m stronger than before and hopefully that is worth something as well. Emma: Helen had been going through a tough season following a hip injury, but she kept her head high. She was worried about committing with her injured hip but we both knew that once she had committed, 16 NORDSTJERNAN
there would be no turning back—if we started, we’d carry on until the bitter end. Helen: Yes, I was pretty sure I wouldn’t be able to do the race when I got the hip injury and contacted a lot of girls to ask if they were interested in replacing me. Emma was supporting me, though, and convinced me that we should do it together. If we experienced it as a team this year, then next year we would come back stronger. What advice would you give someone who is interested in Ötillö but daunted by the race? Helen: Get a good wetsuit! And you need to be confident. Find some friends to train with and get excited for the adventure. There are also loads of swimrun communities you can join, to help you prepare. But most of all just have fun and get ready for an amazing experience! Emma: It’s important to find a good teamie that you really connect with. The human body can do great things alone but companionship and teamwork can take it to new levels. When you find this, you’ll have an amazing experience.
To read more about Emma and Helen’s experience competing in the Ötillö Swimrun, visit www.discoverinteresting.com/endurance-series/ synergy-in-sweden Photos by Pierre Mangez and Jakob Edholm
Perhaps it’s not surprising that swimrunning was born in the Stockholm archipelago, and Ötillö, Sandhamn (www.otilloswimrun.com) is the original race, this year on September 2 (there may still be time to qualify)! First raced in 2006, it is also the Swimrun World Championship. To finish the Ötillö course from dawn to dusk, the competitors must be very fit and very fast in and out of the water as there are 46 transitions. The teams swim between the 24 islands and run over them. The total distance is 75 kilometres of which 10 are open-water swimming and 65 are trail-running. To gain entry in ÖtillÖ you must either qualify in an ÖtillÖ Swimrun World Series race, have great merits, participate in seven races in 24 months or just be lucky. There are now swimrun races all over Sweden and in other parts of the world. For a list of races, see www.swim-run.se
Photo: Pierre Mangez
Photo: Pierre Mangez
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Photo: Emma Erkers
Dancing through Sweden The Jamestown, NY based Thule Swedish Folkdance Team toured Sweden to learn more about traditional folk dances, music and culture. by Don Sandy Photo: www.visitlindsborg.com
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t was our last night of dancing in Sweden. Together with our hosts Närkia Folkdansgille, we formed two long lines, facing each other across a space of two arms’ lengths, men on one side, women on the other. It was, the dance leader explained, a kind of “follow the leader.” First, the head couple waltzed down between the lines, then they were followed by the next couple, and in turn each couple waltzed through. The dancing was to a tune that sounded vaguely like, “We all live in a yellow submarine,” with lyrics that sounded to us non-Swedish speakers like, “A rickety bus we haul more, we haul more, a rickety bus.…” We all danced through the lines doing a spirited polka, and finally we danced back to back, holding hands, using any step that would keep us upright! We hollered a few more verses about the rickety bus, which didn’t seem to have much relevance to the dance but was a lot of fun. Later on —after we had eaten enormous slices of the smörgåstårta, a wedding cake-sized “sandwich” filled with cream cheese and shrimp and decorated with paper-thin slices of cucumber, cheese, ham, carrot curls and feathery dill fronds —a few Swedish dancers took pity on us and translated the words of the rickety bus chant. “En riktigt bussig svärmor vill jag ha, vill jag ha, vill jag ha …” actually translates to: “I want a really nice mother-in-law.…” No, it’s not much more relevant to the dance than the rickety bus, but a really nice mother-inlaw certainly makes for a much better family life. And, in the tradition of the untranslatable Swedish word “lagom,” a nice family life is a good thing. Not too much. Just right.
Swedish hospitality
This was the Thule Swedish Folkdance Team’s final night of a nine-day stay in Sweden to learn more about traditional folk dances and music; our itinerary was also rich with cultural events and historic sites. Our Jamestown-based group consisted of 19 dancers, and since most teams in Sweden dance to live music, three of the Thule Team’s musicians also made the trip. When we flew to Sweden, we didn’t envision ourselves dancing between two lines of clapping Swedes chanting about a riktigt bussig svärmor, but travel always brings the unexpected. Our memorable trip would bring many unexpected experiences. The hospitality and friendliness of our Swedish hosts astonished us. All of them fed us—with sitdown meals at tables set with china and silverware, tablecloths and napkins. No standing around trying to balance a greasy paper plate and a plastic cup while making polite conversation. From elegant dinners featuring baked salmon fillets and roast pork at Spånga, to “light suppers” of homemade leek and potato soup with bread and cheese, to luscious vegetable tarts with beets and carrots, and sumptuous fika with cheese, ham, shrimp, tomato, cucumber and sweet pepper, we munched our way through nine wonderful days.
Oh, and vegan and gluten-free options were always available. Then, there was the coffee: strong, smooth, deep roasted Swedish coffee. No decaf. (Most of us suffered a five-day caffeine withdrawal event as well as jet-lag when we returned to Jamestown.) The Swedish dance teams took very seriously their mandate to TEACH us. They all had lesson plans and a dance leader who conducted the instruction in English. It is difficult enough to organize a group of people you have never met and teach them a series of dances in your native language, let alone in a foreign language: Our Swedish dance leaders were teaching in their second (or third) language. They had obviously spent enormous amounts of time and expense to organize these sessions. We can never adequately express to them our gratitude. We were awed and humbled by their hospitality.
Dancing through Sweden
During our nine days in Sweden, we met and danced with nine Swedish dance groups over six days. The Swedish dance teams focused on introducing us to circle (mixer) dances. These are fun and relatively simple to teach, and serve to familiarize people with Scandinavian dancing, music, rhythms and the various dance forms. But they are only one part of the Swedish dance tradition. There are also the gammeldans (old fashioned dances) for couples, such as schottish, snoa, waltz, polka and mazurka, which the Swedes put their own twists on. And there is a complex set of dances, often termed bygdedans (village dances) that have a long history in Sweden Continues on next page
19 Jamestown dancers and three musicians of the Thule Swedish Folkdance Team danced their way through Sweden. Image source: Private
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feature - bygdedanser include the very Swedish polska, of which there are many variations. Our Swedish hosts didn’t let our lack of experience stop them: On the first night, the Spånga team gave us a Hambo lesson. The Hambo, the Swedish national dance, is a patterned polska repeated every eight measures. Later, the Mora and Våmhus dance teams introduced us to the Bingsjö polska, and the By and Avesta teams followed this up with lots of practice dancing a polska from Södra Dalarna, the south of the Dalarna province. A third group of dances traditionally performed by the Jamestown group is the “set dances,” or folk dances, such as Väva vadmal (Weaving Dance), Trekarls (Three guys), and Oxdansen (The Ox Dance). We danced Trekarls with the Leksands and Siljanäs teams. And two of the Våmhus dancers performed a gracefully athletic Oxdans that had us all clapping enthusiastically. The Swedish dance teams’ analysis of the Thule Folkdance group’s style? “We do not do so much ‘hopping’ in Sweden.” One of the highlights of each evening’s dance program, was the chance we had to teach the Swedish team one of the most popular dances in the Jamestown group’s repertoire. The Jamestown Polka was choreographed especially for us by the Toronto Swedish Folkdance group and we were delighted to share this lively dance with our Swedish friends.
The tour route
We spent the first three nights in Stockholm with the Spånga and Viksjö dance teams in the suburbs. October seemed like an appropriate time for us Americans to take the Ghost Tour of Gamla Stan, which turned out to be not so much about ghosts, but it was a bit spooky because it was dark and cold, and the ancient, winding streets lent an air of otherworldliness. We learned quite a bit about Swedish history and the formation of modern Sweden and by 9 PM on that first night we were ready for dinner. We enjoyed a delicious dinner of several varieties of sill (herring) and köttbullar (meatballs) in the atmospheric cellar of Den Gyldene Freden (“The Golden Peace,” referring to the 1721 Nystad peace treaty with the Russins which allowed Sweden to keep Finland) serving husmanskost (typical Swedish home cooking) since 1722. The next morning began with a boat tour of the 14 islands on which Stockholm is built. We experienced, first hand, why the city is often called The Venice of the North. That afternoon, the group divided up to visit museums and cultural sites such as Nordiska Museet, the Royal Palace and Stockholms Stadshus (City Hall), the venue for the glittering annual Nobel Banquet. Although some of us awoke the next day feeling a bit stiff after a night of dancing with the Spånga team, we spread over the city to visit the Vasa Museum, Skansen, the Medieval Museum, and Folkdansringen Stockholm store on the suburban island of Lilla Essingen. It introduced us to this organization 20 NORDSTJERNAN
that supports all aspects of Swedish folk music and dance. We were able to buy a nice stash of sheet music and CDs, as well as some long wool stockings to wear with our folkdräkter. On October 4 we departed Stockholm in our big comfortable bus (NOT the rickety bus!), picked up our excellent guide, and made two stops as we headed north toward Rättvik. Our first stop was Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), an area with history stretching back to pre-Christian times. Then we went into the university town of Uppsala. Our guide talked of the exciting science that was being done in Uppsala in the 1700s: from botanist Carl Linnaeus,
who developed the system of binomial nomenclature for naming organisms, to astronomer Anders Celsius, who invented the celsius temperature scale. We soon arrived in Rättvik, the town in Dalarna where we’d be for three nights. Dalarna is a beauContinues on page 23
Top: Köttbullar (meatballs) at the classic Stockholm restaurant Den Gyldene Freden. Photo: Bo Zaunders / Below: World Heritage site Falun and the copper mine.
Photo: Ola Ericson/Imagebank Sweden
STOCKHOLM, the capital of Sweden, is the most populous urban area of the Nordic countries: 965,232 people live in the municipality - 1.6 million in the urban area and 2.4 million in the greater metro area. The city stretches across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren flows into the Baltic Sea. The image above illustrates the amazing location of the city, practically part of the archipelago - Kastellholmen in the foreground with Djurgården and Gröna Lund amusement park in the background with the much smaller Beckholmen. Outside the city to the east and along the coast is the chain of
islands known as the archipelago. The area has been settled since the Stone Age, in the 6th millennium BC, and was founded as a city in 1252 by Swedish statesman Birger Jarl, on Stadsholmen or Stockholmen – now called Gamla Stan – and has been celebrated through the centuries by authors and poets like Carl Michael Bellman, August Strindberg, Hjalmar Söderberg and Per Anders Fogelström (who wrote an entire series depicting life in the city). Among its top attractions are the Vasa Museum, Skansen, the Old Town and the Royal Palace.
Why the name Stockholm? One theory points to a palisade of logs near Stadsholmen that marked the border between Södermanland and Uppland. Because of these logs (stockar), the holm in Stockholm’s ström became known as Stockholmen. Later, when a city was founded in 1252, it inherited the shorter version of the name. Stockholm has a variety of nicknames, too: Venice of the North, Pearl of Europe, Kungsbudane, Queen of Mälaren, and Eken. For more info, see www.stockholm.se or www.visitstockholm.com JULY 15, 2019 21
Photo: Bruno Ehrs/”A Taste of Dalarna”
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DALARNA is a “landskap” (province) in central Sweden, adjoining Härjedalen, Hälsingland, Gästrikland, Västmanland and Värmland, and bordered by Norway in the west. Dalarna (or Dalecarlia) also means the dales or the valleys and is a popular tourist destination for Swedes who are drawn there by the lakes, good fishing and the beauty of nature; many Swedes own or rent a summerhouse in Dalarna for these reasons. Dalarna is also a region full of historical associations: It was through Dalarna that Gustav Vasa escaped the troops of Christian II, king of Denmark, Sweden and Norway (the Kalmar Union) 22 NORDSTJERNAN
in 1520, an escape that became the foundation for today’s famous annual long distance cross-country Vasaloppet ski race. Dalarna’s provincial flower is the harebell and the bird eagle owl. With 37,291 inhabitants, Falun is the biggest town in Dalarna. It is a World Heritage Site not just for its copper mine but the whole surrounding area, its historic red-painted buildings and the rural mining districts. Just west of Falun, in Nås, is where the Ingmarsspelen (www.ingmarsspelen) take place each year. The theater performance is based on Selma Lagerlöf’s epic novel Jerusalem, about occupants of the village who chose to immigrate
to the holy country at the end of the 19th century. The play celebrated 60 years of performances in July, but if you’re looking for a late summer performance in the area, visit Dalhalla (www.dalhalla. se), the former lime quarry-turned-concert venue, farther north. All the towns mentioned on the pages of this feature offer guided tours and ample opportunities for music, dance, exciting boat rides and experiences in nature. Visits to Carl Larsson’s Sundborn, (www.carllarsson.se/en) is a must as is a visit to the Zorn Museum (www.zorn.se) in Mora. For general information on Dalarna see www. visitdalarna.se
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tiful province that reminded us of the American countryside around Chautauqua Lake. It’s at the southern end of Lake Siljan, home to about 4,500 people and an ideal place for experiencing traditional Swedish folk music and dance. The area retains its agricultural and forestry industries and is considered the most “Swedish” in the nation. Beautiful forests, pastures, lakes and streams, as well as the traditional Falu red houses and farm buildings, are much the same as they were in centuries past. Rättvik attracts folk musicians from all over Europe, hosts a big folk music festival each year, and of course, the presence of all these fiddlers and nyckelharpa and accordion players fosters traditional Swedish dancing. The next day we visited Falun, which lies between Uppsala and Rättvik and is where copper has been mined for centuries. A small but intrepid group of us descended into the copper mine there. We viewed the signatures on the rock wall, of King Carl and Queen Sylvia, who had also toured the mine. Swedish houses and barns are painted red – Falu red – because of the copper in this area. The tailings from the mining process, mixed with water, rye flour and linseed oil, produced the Falu rödfärg paint that was resourceful and accessible to everyone. Just to the north of Falun is the picturesque village of Sundborn, where the home of artist Carl Larsson and his wife Karin is now a museum. Probably most descendants of Swedish immigrants in America have a calendar with Carl Larsson’s paintings; his scenes of domestic Swedish life say “Sweden” to Swedish Americans more than any other paintings or photographs. We were delighted to find that his house remains as it was when he used it as a model for his domestic interiors.
Home of the Dala horse
We dare you to find one Jamestown home, inhabited by descendants of Swedish immigrants, that does not display at least one Dala horse: small, large, red, white, green or blue. So, our visit to Nusnäs and the Dalahäst factory was like coming home. Nusnäs is a small village, about two thirds of the way up the eastern shore of Lake Siljan. This is where all the original Dalahästar (Dala horses) are born, in two small factories started by two brothers. It is a tiny place, where woodcarvers sit with a knife and carve out horses from blocks of wood. We were able to see how the wooden horses were dipped into paint vats, then dried and decorated by hand. We were also able to buy a few more Dalahästar in the gift shop. We also learned how the Dalahäst became popular in the United States. The Olsson brothers, who owned the workshop, sent a representative to the 1939 New York World’s Fair, with a large crate containing 10,000 Dalahäster. He sold every one of them … and had orders for an additional 20,000. So, Minnesota and Chicago and Jamestown were thus invaded by little painted Swedish horses. Across from the factory, we saw one of the few remaining “church boats” once common on Lake
Siljan. The long, graceful wooden row boat, with the soaring lines of a Viking boat, was used to carry Sunday churchgoers from the small villages that dotted Siljan’s shores to church in one of the large communities. Roads at this time were scarce and often not passable; today church boats are used for weddings and other festivities such as Midsummer.
Last day at Siljan
On Sunday morning, we visited Rättvik’s enormous outdoor market before we left town. Held twice a year, the event attracts sellers and buyers from all over Europe (and the U.S.), with everything from hot dogs and folk costumes to pottery
and comic books. Then we headed for Mora. The lovely little at the northern tip of Lake Siljan, features an excellent Hemslöjdsbutik with handmade items for sale. One of its claims to fame dates to 1520, when Gustav Vasa, irate because his father was executed by the Danish King Christian II, arrived here and tried Continues on next page Top: The church boats of Siljan, yesteryear’s public transportation to church on Sunday. Photo: Bruno Ehrs/A Taste of Dalarna / Below: A visit to Nusnäs, home of the Dalahäst. Photo: Kola Productions JULY 15, 2019 23
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feature to recruit the locals to join in a rebellion. At first people refused, and Gustav Vasa took off on skis toward the Norwegian border. Fortunately, they reconsidered and sent a couple athletic young skiers to catch Gustav. They did, and now their journey is memorialized each year as the 90k Vasaloppet cross-country ski race. The Anders Zorn Museum is in Mora, too; it features a large collection of his Impressionist style paintings from the late 1800s and early 1900s. He excelled in portraiture, painting kings and even U.S. presidents, as well as scenes of rural revelry. We continued our journey north along the western shore of Lake Siljan to Orsa, a few miles north of Mora, on the shore of Orsasjön. The Orsa Hembygdsgård is a fascinating park and open air museum that features ancient domestic dwellings and farm buildings, as well as the community hall where we danced one Saturday. In the middle of the park is the tallest majstång (May pole) any of us had ever seen. After being raised at midsummer, it remains standing through the long, dark days of winter, until it is taken down two weeks before next year’s midsummer and decorated once more with fresh greens and flowers.
The last dance
Our final night of dancing was in Örebro, due south of Dalarna in the province of Närke, about halfway between Stockholm and Göteborg. Örebro is a modern city built on early medieval foundations. The imposing Örebro Slott, on a little isle in Svartån (the Black River), was constructed in the early 13th century. In 1810, the city was the site of the Diet which elected Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, a Frenchman, as Crown Prince of Sweden. He is the ancestor of the current Swedish Royal Family. (06a) We toured the castle, then enjoyed the excellent buffet lunch at the top of the mushroomshaped water tower. Appropriately, the restaurant is named Svampen (The Mushroom). Our way back to Stockholm took us along the shores of Lake Hjälmaren and Lake Mälaren, which in times past, offered a waterway for journeys between Uppsala, Stockholm and the Baltic Sea. There, on the shores of an inlet from Lake Mälaren, we explored another castle, (06b) Skokloster slot. This imposing white structure was never a royal residence not a fortified castle. It was built between 1654 and 1676 as one of several homes of Karl Gustav Wrangel, who made piles of money in the campaigns of the Thirty Years War (1618-1648) and the other wars that were extending Sweden’s domination in the northern lands. Wrangel was impressed by the royal palaces he had seen or heard about in Italy and France, so he hired a French architect to design a Baroque residence in snowy Sweden. Unlike Italian palazzos, the Swedish builders did not have easy access to marble quarries, so they used a local material – wood - and painted it to look like marble. Wrangel’s descendants were forbidden to sell off any furniture or paintings or make major changes 24 NORDSTJERNAN
(like installing central heating), and when the family sold it to the Swedish state in 1965, it looked as it did in the 1700s. A short drive then brought us to the ancient village of Sigtuna. There, a lively guide filled us in on the village’s long history, from the Viking long boats gliding down the lake whose rowers prayed to the ancient Norse gods for fair winds and weather, and who carved and set up the rune stones, to the Christian monks and priests who built the three medieval churches and a grand Benedictine monastery, begun about 1230. Gustav Vasa, and later kings, coveting the wealth of the Roman church to pay for their wars, brought the Reformation to Sigtuna, claimed the property of the Roman churches and dissolved the monastery. The medieval churches were destroyed and most of their dressed stones were used as building materials by the locals. Only the stone ruins of the three churches, and the Mariakyrka (Saint Mary’s Church), the medi-
eval brick monastery church, remain. Mariakyrka is now part of the Lutheran congregation. The day was cold and gray, but we were warmed with fika in the quaint Tant Bruns Café (Auntie Brown’s Cafe) and by a final group dinner in Sigtuna at Kopparkitteln, where we had our choice of delicious salmon or meatballs.
Lasting impressions of Sweden
This trip was the first taste of Sweden for many members of the group, and the experiences, the sights and the sounds were overwhelming. Com-
Top: Skokloster Castle / Below, L-R: Sigtuna Old Town / Who says Swedes are reserved? Good-byes at the end of our evening with the Närkia dance team in Örebro. Image sources: Wikimedia and private.
bine this with jet lag and you get brain chaos. A few members have made regular trips to Sweden over the years, and many have visited Sweden once or twice in the past. But everyone had their favorite impressions of the country, some profound, others as quirky as the prevalence of sugar cubes, rather than packets of loose sugar. We had set a budget for lodging at an average of $50 per night per person. We were fortunate, thanks to the internet research of several of our dance team members, to find several remarkably interesting hostels and hotels that fit our budget.
Accommodations in Rättvik were at Pellusgården and Jöns Andersgården. Wherever we stayed we were all impressed by the food, served by our hosts and the overall quality and quantity of breakfast buffets. Image sources: Wikimedia
Our three nights in Stockholm were spent at a well-known hostel, the old sailing ship af Chapman and its land-based annex with cafe and breakfast room. On the island of Skeppsholmen, adjacent to Gamla Stan, it offered a chance to sleep on the water, in tiny cabins with bunk beds. There was much discussion on who got to sleep in the upper bunk. The group was divided on its three nights in Rättvik. Some stayed at Jöns Andersgården, a lovely collection of old red wooden houses. The breakfast room, with its long bank of multi-paned windows, lined with pink geraniums, was particularly charming. Ten people were booked into an old farm, Pellusgården, on the outskirts of Rättvik. Staying here felt like an experience of life as it must have been for many of our ancestors … though we had efficient (and welcomed!) radiators, electric lights and running water! The barn at Pellusgården served as the site for a delicious group dinner on our first night in Rättvik, featuring a bountiful
Swedish smörgåsbord and entertainment by the Rättvik Spelmanslag. We spent our two nights in Örebro in a downtown hotel, where everyone enjoyed the luxury of in-room bathrooms for the first time during our trip. The night before our morning return flight, we spent at a convenient Arlanda hostel … in the form of a recycled Boeing 747. Many of our dancers had the opportunity to meet with Swedish relatives – some of whom were recently discovered for the first time and other cousins who’ve been known to each other for a long time. Swedish relatives traveled to Stockholm or to Dalarna to meet with the American family members, and some even followed along for a few days and shared their knowledge of Sweden’s history and culture with the whole group. Food, of course, was a constant source of comment. The quality and quantity and variety of the breakfast buffets everywhere we stayed was remarkable. There was always fresh fruit and veggies, along with cured meats, cheese, fresh bread and rolls. Those of us fortunate enough to love and tolerate gluten, raved over the breads -fresh, rye or whole wheat, with or without seeds ... just yummy. Others marveled over the high quality of the goods for sale, like clothing and shoes. And, how lifestyles differed, with many more people walking and riding bikes, even in the cities. Just about everyone was impressed by how tidy and clean both city and country are; there is no trash in the streets, buildings and infrastructure are in good repair, trains and buses are sparkling clean, graffiti is minimal and usually artistic. From conversations with relatives we learned that although taxes seem high to us, health care is free, education is free through graduate school, and laws mandate generous parental leave and annual vacation. Everyone was impressed by the friendliness and courtesy shown to us by Swedes everywhere we went. Sweden always ranks among the happiest countries in the world, and the good feelings certainly show up in how they treat visitors. Without the generous support provided by our sponsors, we would not have been able to make this trip a reality. For some of our dancers and their families, it will be the only trip they ever make to Sweden, the land of their ancestors. For others, it may be the beginning of regular visits. Certainly, it has produced indelible changes in all of us. It is one thing to read about a country, it is another matter altogether to visit it. And it is a rare and wonderful thing to be given the opportunity to talk and eat and dance with Swedish people. In the coming months and years, we will be privileged to share with the greater Jamestown community and the U.S. folk dancing community, our knowledge, impressions and enthusiasm. n Swedish folk dancers of the USA: Please contact editor@nordstjernan.com and let us know of your group’s dances and events! JULY 15, 2019 25
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Summer salad with salmon What better to serve on a hot summer day than a salad that’s both fresh and filling. The salty salmon, mango, dill and wasabi complement each other in this light, fish based summer treat. Swedes love fish whether it’s boiled, cured, fried, smoked or grilled … this recipe works especially well with gravlax or fried salmon. Serves 4 Ingredients 2 sweet potatoes 1-1/2 pounds salmon fillet (fresh or gravlax) 1 bag (10 oz) sugar snap peas 1 mango 1 bag mixed salad greens 1 teaspoon wasabi (or horseradish) 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar salt black pepper olive oil and or butter for frying sea salt flakes blueberries dill Instructions Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into cubes. Put into boiling water until tender but don’t overcook. Drain and let cool. If you are using fresh salmon, cut the salmon into cubes and fry in olive oil and/or butter, add salt and black pepper to liking. / If you are using gravlax, cut into cubes.
Steam the sugar peas in lightly salted water, put in ice water and drain. Cut lengthwise. Peel the mango and cut into cubes. For the dressing Whisk together wasabi (or horseradish), olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper in a bowl.
Assemble and serve On a tray or platter, start with a generous layer of the mixed greens, add the sweet potatoes, salmon, mango and sugar snap peas. Add the dressing just before serving, decorate with blueberries and dill sprigs, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top. Text & photo: Mette Barslund Martensson
“Sommargurka”
The ever present cucumbers with dill—not necessarily served with salmon salad—goes with just about everything else you grill this summer. Each Nordic country has some version of this classic, and some people might prefer parsley over dill with these lightly pickled cucumbers. The Olson Robison family of Wisconsin usually favors the sweet and sour recipe below, which allows for any amount of dill. You just can’t go wrong!
2 large cucumbers 1/2 cup lemon juice or white wine vinegar 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt dash pepper 4 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 4 teaspoons dried dill) fresh dill sprigs for garnish
Scrub the cucumbers and slice them paper thin, place in bowl. Mix the lemon juice (or vinegar) with sugar, salt and pepper Pour mix over the cucumbers and stir. Sprinkle with the chopped dill, refrigerate for 3 hours to allow flavors to blend. Drain most juice, then garnish cucumbers with dill sprigs to serve. JULY 15, 2019 27
news in brief
Increased voter turnout in the EU elections
BORTA BRA MEN HEMMA BÄST Känn dig hemma med Original Swedish Snus. GeneralSnus.com/Find
Voter turnout in the EU countries increased significantly compared to 2014, according to Reuters. Data from all EU countries except the UK shows that 51 percent voted, compared to less than 43 percent across the EU in the last election. In the past, voter turnout has fallen over time; in the first election of 1979, 62 percent voted. This year Sweden had a record high turnout: Just over 53 percent of eligible voters participated compared to 51 percent in 2014. Peace in Europe, democracy, law enforcement, environment, social welfare, equality, refugees and immigration, economy, energy and nuclear power, and national independence were Swedish voters’ most important issues in the EU election, according to polling station surveys made by Swedish television in which 9,000 people participated. Only 12 percent of the respondents wanted Sweden to leave the EU.
Biggest winner of the election
The Social Democrats remain the biggest party in the Swedish group of EU parliamentarians, with 23.4 percent of the vote, followed by the Moderates with 16.8 percent. The Sweden Democrats increased most, however, and received another mandate when all votes were counted. The party goes from 9.8 percent in 2014 to 15.4 percent. Distribution of the Swedish vote:
Source: val.se
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news in brief
Sweden and the EU
In a few years, Swedes have transformed from being among the most skeptical of the European Union to the most supportive among member nations. That was evidenced during the May 26 election for the European parliament. Of Swedes voting in the election, 77 percent declared in an election poll that they supported continued Swedish membership in the EU, with only 11 percent against it. (In a major poll taken among the whole population earlier in May, the numbers were 62 percent for Swedish membership, with 13 percent expressing a wish to leave.) In all parties—from left to right—there are strong majorities for staying a member of EU, except for the immigration restrictive Sweden Democrats, where the view is split. Elections to the EU are held every five years. Swedes elects 20 of the 751-member parliament. Since Sweden became a member in 1995, the first election in which Swedes could participate was in 1999. This year’s election, the fifth for Sweden, had a voter turnout of 55.3 percent among eligible voters. That is far above average for the 400 million eligible voters in the entire European Union. Still, interest in the national election to the Swedish parliament, Riksdagen, is much higher, with 87 percent voter turnout in the 2018 parliamentary election.
A positive turn in attitude
One reason is the dire experience of “Brexit.” Sweden is close to Great Britain—old nation states, aligned within the EU for open trade and in opposition to the French bureaucratic tradition of the European Union. To leave EU has not
proven to be easy for the Brits; in fact, it’s been quite detrimental. A complicated search for an alternative has led nowhere and is spreading uncertainty about the future for the British economy. Instead of becoming a positive example to other EU members, Brexit has emerged as a warning rod. A second reason is a growing realization that there are several common problems for Europe, which takes little notice of national borders. International crime is one of them—with drug wars, even burglaries into homes, committed by international crime syndicates. Migration is another such issue, particularly after the wave from Syria during 2015. Climate change is also an issue of this type. More people have started to see an important role for the European Union on vital issues. In the EU election, it was expected that problems connected to immigration would dominate campaigns. And, yes, they were prominent. But climate change and the threat to our environment advanced to the top in many countries, including Sweden. The result in the European Union as a whole was that anti-immigration parties advanced—but so did liberal parties. And green parties had a very good run, particularly in Germany.
Sweden’s changing view
Compared to the last election in 2014, Sweden showed a different pattern. The Liberal Party and the Greens were losers, together with the feminist left. Winners were the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, as well as the two moderate parties on the right—the Moderates and the Christian Democrats. But compared to the parliamentary
Swedes were among 400 million Europeans who voted in the 2019 European Union election. election of 2018, the Greens had some success, with 11.5 percent of the vote. Interpreted in the Swedish political setting, the election confirmed that the Swedish electorate has moved in a more conservative direction. The five non-socialist parties, including Sweden Democrats, received 56 percent of the vote in the EU election; the four socialist parties together received 42.5 percent (Left Party, Social Democrats, Greens and Feminists). What does it matter to elect 20 members from Sweden to a European parliament of 751 members? That can certainly be discussed. A lot depends on the personal capability of members to make themselves heard and take important roles, just like in the U.S. Congress. Influence goes via party groups. The three largest are the socialist group (Social Democrats), the group of Christian Democrats and conservative parties and the group of liberal parties. The first two groups were reduced through the 2019 European election, mainly due to the collapse of the British conservatives and Angela Merkel’s Christian Democrats, as well as the Social Democrats in Britain, Germany and France. The liberal group increased in strength, mainly due to the success of the British liberals in the election and the decision by French president Emmanuel Macron to let his party join the liberal group (ALDE) in the European parliament. One should be aware that the European Union is still mainly governed by the European Council of Ministers, wherein each member state is represented by its prime minister or president. The EU is a rather awkward mix of federation and confederation. The general tendency, though, is for populations in many member states to become less willing to relinquish powers from the national level to the EU level. One can compare with the fight for “states’ rights” in the U.S. So, the more grandiose vision of a federal European state is not in the making. Sweden will remain a strong nation state, even as a member of the European Union. Hans Bergstrom Dr. Bergstrom is a professor of political science and former editor of Dagens Nyheter, the leading Swedish newspaper. He carries dual Swedish/ American citizenship. Since 2003, he has his permanent residency in South Florida, but visits Sweden regularly and follows Swedish politics closely.
JULY 15, 2019 29
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DID YOU KNOW? Early Bell challenger builds 5G. Ericsson, in a global 36th place with R&D investments (Page 5) has a long history. In 1876 Lars Magnus Ericsson (1846-1926) and a partner started the company that evolved into Telefonaktiebolaget L.M. Ericsson, today abbreviated Ericsson. It began manufacturing telephones in 1878 but soon ran into competition from the Americanowned Bell company. Lars Magnus Ericsson was chiefly an outstanding entrepreneur, but he also made various improvements to early telephone equipment, designed switchboards and set up telephone networks. As early as the 1890s he established subsidiaries abroad, and Ericsson’s products attracted international attention. Ericsson is today an instrumental part of building the new 5G network in the United States. Airbnb for boat owners. The Swedish-Finnish app Skipperi (Nordstjernan 08/2019), founded in Finland in 2017 by a combination of influencers and people in the boat industry, helps boat owners rent their boats online. Renting a boat for a day or two in the Stockholm archipelago has never been easier. For more info, see www.skipperi.com The ant that carries the elephant. SKF stands for something you don’t see but without which you’d get stuck on the highway or lost in space: ball bearings. SKF is the world’s largest manufacturer of them. It started when the Swedish engineer Sven Winquist faced a misaligned drive-shaft problem in 1907 and solved it with his double-row self-aligned ball bearing. The first year SKF made 2,200 bearings. Today it makes over 250,000 bearings per hour. In the microworld of bearings and seals, the protection is an oily film some 50 atoms thick, or about one-fifth the thickness of a hair. A fully grown African elephant weighs about six tons. Imagine that it would concentrate its total weight on a single tiny ant. The pressure acting on the ant would be equivalent to the pressure between the ball and its raceway in the ring when the bearing is in operation. Yet the ball never touches the ring. The micron thick film of oil keeps them apart. In SKF’s world, the ant carries the elephant on its back.
Sweden’s best rest areas
Plan your trip right if you’re renting or picking up a new car in Sweden. The Swedish road system has just over 350 rest areas, and “these areas are of great importance for road safety,” says a spokesperson for the Swedish National Association Motormännen. The organization has chosen the best in each part of the country. The rest areas have been assessed for safety, access to toilets and cleanliness, whereafter a winner was appointed for each province. A sign with the text “The province’s best resting place” will be placed at these winning locations: Blekinge: Senoren Dalarna: Långsjön Gotland: Träffpunkt Gotland Gävleborg: Högbacka Halland: Susedalen, norrut Jämtland: Gimån Jönköping, Småland: Gyllene Uttern Kalmar: Långsjön ka Kronoberg: Fräjen Norrbotten: Polcirkeln-Silvervägen Skåne: Ekerödsrasten Stockholm/Uppsala: Tärnsjö Södermanland: Råbyhed Värmland: Hänsjön Västerbotten: Vojmån Västernorrland: Mosjön Västmanland: Högsjön Västra Götaland: Boråstorpet Örebro: Sickelsta (east) Östergötland: Herrbeta
Top 10 most popular summer songs in Sweden:
1. Ted Gärdestad – Sol, vind och vatten 2. Gyllene Tider – Sommartider 3. Tomas Ledin – Sommaren är kort 4. Uno Sveningsson – Vågorna 5. Snowstorm – Sommarnatt 6. Glenmark Eriksson Strömstedt – När vi gräver guld i USA 7. Peter Lundblad – Ta mig till havet 8. Peps Persson – Oh boy 9. Ted Gärdestad – Oh, vilken härlig da’ 10. Orup – Magaluf Source: Spotify (where all of the songs can be downloaded)
news in brief
Swedish News Volvo car-sharing kicks off Nyamko Sabuni new L leader
Nyamko Sabuni is the Liberal Party’s new leader. She was elected, as expected, as L’s twelfth party leader at the party’s convention on June 28. A large proportion of Swedish voters have confidence in her, according to a survey conducted by Novus for Sweden’s Nyamko Sabuni Radio: 22 percent say they have fairly or very high confidence in Sabuni. The corresponding figure for her former competing candidate Erik Ullenhag is 10 percent. On June 25, Ullenhag announced he was canceling his campaign, which meant Sabuni became the sole candidate. Sabuni, 50, is a Burundian-born Swedish politician who served as Minister for Gender Equality in the Swedish government from 2006 to 2013. From 2006 to 2010 she also served as Minister for Integration. Her family obtained political asylum in Sweden in 1981, and Sabuni grew up in Kungsängen, north of Stockholm. She studied law at Uppsala University, migration policy at Mälardalen University in Eskilstuna, and information and media communications at Berghs School of Communication in Stockholm. A member of the Liberal Party, Sabuni was elected a Member of Parliament in 2002.
Uneven gender distribution
In nine of the 10 most common professions in Sweden, gender distribution is skewed. This is illustrated in a review by the magazine Du & Jobbet. Of the professions where most people work, only one—retailer in the specialist trade—reaches
Volvo’s sharing service M is launched in select areas of Stockholm. The car maker first kicked off the independent company M within Volvo Cars in the summer of 2018. M’s main goal is to develop mobile car sharing services. Volvo previously operated the car-sharing service Sunfleet, with 1,700 cars in the fleet and 500,000 annual transactions; it was integrated with M. The new company’s services have been beta-launched in parts of Stockholm. Users—in the neighborhoods Kungsholmen, Liljeholmen and Hammarby Sjöstad—book a car to use per hour or per day through an app with a monthly fee of approximately SEK 300 ($30). According to a press release, the service will launch in more cities in the future. “Each
M-car will replace five cars ... but in the future we will not count how many cars we make, but how many customers we have. And M will increase the number of customers. I am convinced we will make money from this,” said Volvo Cars CEO Håkan Samuelsson at the launch of M Volvo Cars CEO Håkan in 2018. Samuelsson
the so-called 60/40 rule, where at most 60 percent is dominated by one gender. The profession most dominated by women is preschool teacher, with 96 percent women, and the profession most dominated by men is carpenter, with 99 percent men..
in raising employment. In industry, however, the job forecast is minus two. This is the first time since Q4 2016 that it is negative.
Vulnerable unemployment rate
There are large differences between the 556,000 inhabitants in Sweden’s 60 so-called vulnerable areas, and people living in the rest of the country. Almost 8 percent of the residents in vulnerable areas are openly unemployed, compared with just over 3 percent in the rest of Sweden. For people aged 2064, the median income in vulnerable areas is SEK 205,000 per year, while the median income in other areas is SEK 321,000. (Source: Survey by The Global Village foundation)
Decreasing industry employment
For the first time since 2016, industry shows falling employment numbers for the third quarter, according to estimates by Manpower. Meanwhile, the index for the entire labor market is plus seven, higher than last year’s of plus four for the same time period. An index above zero means that more employers believe
Pirate copies cost billions
Swedish companies lose billions when pirated goods from China and Hong Kong are sold to Swedish consumers. The Swedish Patent and Registration Office also warns of the health and safety risks that often accompany the use of copies. Pirate copies cost Swedish companies close to $2 billion per year, according to an estimate in a new report from OECD. Globally, imports of counterfeit and pirated goods are worth nearly half a trillion dollars a year, or around 2.5 percent of global imports.
Teachers’ union fights against language tests
The municipal council in Hörby in Skåne has decided to introduce language tests for pupils who want education in their mother tongue. The teachers’ union asserts it is illegal and intends to report the municipality to the School Inspectorate.
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