November december 2009

THE VASA STAR Vasastj채rnan Publication of THE VASA ORDER OF AMERICA

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2009 www.vasaorder.com

The Grand Master’s Message Rolf Bergman

Vasa brothers and sisters!

Vasa Syskon!

We wish you all a wonderful time with your lodge activities and celebrations as well as a time of refreshment and recreation with family and friends. I’m sure many of us have had difficulties with work, health or families this year, but I hope that you can also find time to give thanks for the blessings received. In the USA we do try to set aside Thanksgiving Day, the last Thursday of November, to give thanks to God for blessings given and received.

Fall, in the odd-numbered years, brings many meetings.

Marty and I attended district conventions of DL Pacific Northwest #13, DL Massachusetts #2, DL Connecticut #1 and DL New York #4 in September and October. When you throw in a weekend for Marty’s family reunion, the Grand Lodge Executive Board meeting in Sacramento and a Swedish Council of American Board meeting in Philadelphia you will find that there are not any weekends left in September and October. Thanks to all of you who hosted us in those conventions; we enjoyed your hospitality and meeting new Vasa friends. I do not have space to thank all of you individually.

The GL Executive Board met for four days in Sacramento to finalize GL Convention plans and decide on motions to write for that meeting. I cannot go into detail on the work but one of the items the Board will present by motion is a revised and reformatted District Ritual.

If you did not already notice, take another look at the front cover of this Vasa Star. Our Editor, Marie Carlson, has redesigned the cover with a more modern look where the picture covers the entire page and becomes both a picture and the background for the text. I really like it! Send Marie comments on it, or any other items you find interesting, or disturbing. She loves to hear from her readers.

I thank all of you that sent in donations to the GL Education Fund as requested when the education stamps were received. GS Joanie informs me that she is receiving lots of envelopes every day. That is good to hear particularly since we announced that we would not offer any scholarships in 2010 due to losses in our Education financial portfolio. If you have not yet sent in your contribution, please take time to do so; we really need your support.

Please take time to look at the Grand Lodge Convention information contained a few pages in. Note the activity schedule and the items for sale page. Note also that the Grand Lodge website has the information and that you can purchase any item or register for the convention using a credit card. I hope you are interested in coming to Washington DC next July. See you there if not before!

Vi önskar Er alla en trevligt tid tillsammans i era gemensamma loge aktiviteter och firanden samt en stund till avkoppling och vila med nära och kära. Jag antar att en del av oss har erfarit svårigheter när det gäller arbete samt sjukdomar i våra familjer under året som gått, men jag hoppas också att ni haft en chans till att tacka för de välsignelser ni fått. I USA försök vi använda sista torsdagen i November som tacksägelsedagen (Thanksgiving Day) för att tacka Gud för de välsignelser som givits och som ni fått.

Hösten för många möten med sig under udda år. Marty och jag deltog i Distiktskonferenser för DL Pacific Northwest Nr 13, DL Massachusetts Nr 2, DL Connecticut Nr 1 och DL New York Nr 4 i September och Oktober. När man sen tillbringar ett veckoslut med att delta i Martys släktträff, utövar styrelsemöte för Storlogen i Sacramento och ett styrelsemöte för Svenska Konsulrådet i Amerikan samt ännu ett styrelsemöte i Philadelphia upptäcker man att det inte finns några helger kvar i September och Oktober. Ett stort tack till alla Er som tog hand om oss under dessa konferenser, vi uppskattade Er gästfrihet samt tillfället att möta nya Vasa vänner. Jag har inte tillräckligt med utrymme för att tacka Er alla individuellt.

Storlogens exekutiva råd möttes under fyra dagar i Sacramento för att slutföra Storlogens planer och skriva motioner inför mötet. Jag kan inte i detalj skriva om allt, men ett av motionerna som kommer att presenteras är en reviderad och omgjord Distiktsritual.

Om ni inte redan lagt märke till omslaget på denna upplaga, titta igen, omslagsbilden täcker hela framsidan och bilden används även som bakgrund för texten. Jag tycker verkligen det blev bra! Skicka era kommentarer till Marie och berätta vad ni tycker men skriv även om andra saker ni tycker är intressanta eller störande. Hon vill gärna att ni hör av er!

Jag vill tacka Er alla som skänkt till Storlogens utbildningsfond som vi bad om när ni fick frimärkena. SS Joanie säger att det dagligen kommer in mycket post. Det är goda nyheter speciellt eftersom vi meddelade att vi inte kunde erbjuda några stipendier för 2010 på grund av förluster i vår finansiella portfölj gällande utbildning. Om ni inte har skickat in något bidrag ännu, tänk på saken och gör det; vi behöver verkligen ert stöd.

Titta på Storlogekonferensens informationssidor i denna upplaga. Lägg märke till sidorna som visar planerade aktiviteter och varor som är till salu. Lägg också märke till Storlogens hemsida som har all denna information där ni kan handla eller registrera er till konferensen genom att använda kredit kort. Jag hoppas ni vill komma till Washington DC i Juli. Om inte vi träffas innan dess, så ses vi där!

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THE VASA STAR (USPS 657-020)

THE VASA STAR

November-December 2009 Vol. 102, No. 6, Serial 848 Published by: Vasa Order of America vasaorder.com HEADQUARTERS: c/o Joan Graham Grand Secretary 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 Phone: 510-526-5512 E-mail: vasajlg@aol.com

AN IMPORTANT REMINDER Please send pictures of good quality in order for them to reproduce well in The Vasa Star. Electronically submitted photos should be scanned in JPEG format at a resolution of 300 dpi.

For submitted Lodge articles, please add city and state. Thanks!

MOVING TO ARIZONA, WELCOME TO DISTRICT LODGE ARIZONA NO. 21

Grand Master: Rolf S. Bergman 3236 Berkeley Avenue Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 Phone: 216-371-5141 Fax: 216-274-9664 E-mail: rolf.bergman@sbcglobal.net

Editor: Marie Carlson 9560 Curberry Drive Mentor, OH 44060 Phone: 440-255-4665 E-mail: mariec@swedes-r-us.com

We have 5 Lodges in the State of Arizona and we invite each of you who are or will be moving to our beautiful state to continue your membership in Vasa by joining one of our existing Lodges, or helping us to start a new one in your new location.

We have Phoenix Lodge in Phoenix, Scandia Lodge in Prescott, Nordic Red Rocks Lodge in Sedona, Solstad Lodge in Sun City West, and Tucson Lodge in Tucson, and with your help, start a new Lodge in a new area. We do know that more and more people are moving to Arizona, and many of Nordic heritages, and we want them to continue their fellowship in the Vasa Order of America.

Should you have any questions, you may call District Lodge Arizona No. 21, District Master Vito Pantaleo at 928-282-3469. We welcome you all!

The Vasa National Archives has a new email address: vasaarchives@winco.net

Deadlines for The Vasa Star: Jan./Feb. is Dec. 1st March/April is Feb. 1st May/June is April 1st July/Aug. is June 1st Sept./Oct. is Aug. 1st Nov./Dec. is Oct. 1st

Circulation Manager: (Address Changes) Cathy Anderson 13194 N. Woosnam Way Oro Valley, AZ 85755 Phone: 520-219-9433 E-mail: circulationvasastar@gmail.com Send bottom section of white copy of application for new members to her.

Membership Chairman: Tore Kellgren 5971 W. Walbrook Drive San Jose, CA 95129 Phone: 408-996-1970 E-mail: tore@kellgren.org

Deadline for Christmas ads is October 15 Deadline for Lucia articles is December 24 Picture and article, 200 words or less.

Price for Xmas Greetings – $30.00 column inch U.S. Postage Service Statement of Ownership Management and Circulation

Orders for advertising should be sent to:

THE VASA STAR Marie Carlson 9560 Curberry Drive Mentor, OH 44060 Phone: 440-255-4665 E-mail: mariec@swedes-r-us.com

Advertising Prices: Full Page Black and White Half Page Black and White Quarter Page Black and White One Column Inch

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2009

$500.00 $275.00 $150.00 $ 30.00

Half Page Color $500.00 Full Page Color $800.00 Available only for inside front cover, inside back cover or back cover.

10% discount for Vasa Lodges and Members

THE VASA STAR (ISSN 0746-0627) is published bi-monthly by the Vasa Order of America. Periodicals postage paid at Richmond, CA, and additional entries.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Vasa Star, P.O. Box 69997, Oro Valley, AZ 85737-0025.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

1. Title of publication: Vasastjarnan, The Vasa Star. 1A. Publication No. 65-0702.

2. Date of filing 10/1/09.

3. Number of Issues Published Annually: 6 3A. No. of issues published annually: 6. 3B. Annual subscription price: Members’ dues include magazine; subscription-$10 yr.

4. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804 5. Complete mailing address of the headquarters of general business office: 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804.

6. Names and complete addresses of publisher, editor and managing editor. Publisher: Vasa Order of America, 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804. Editor: Marie Carlson, 9560 Curberry Dr., Mentor, OH 44060. Managing Editor: Rolf S. Bergman, Grand Master, 3236 Berkeley Ave., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 7. Owner: Vasa Order of America, 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804 8. Known bondholders, mortgagees and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other: None.

9. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal income tax purposes has not changed during preceding 12 months.

10. Extent and nature of circulation: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months. A. Total no. copies: 9,100. B. Paid or requested circulation. 1) Sales through dealers, carriers and counter sales: 0. 2) Mail subscription: 8,510. C. Total paid and/or requested circulation: 9,100. D. Free distribution by mail–0. 3) Other classes mailed through the USPS: 0. E. Free distribution outside the mail: 590. F. Total free distribution: 590. G. Total distribution: 9,100. H. Copies not distributed: 0. I. Total: 9,100. J. Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 94.

11. I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete: Joan Graham, Business Manager, 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804.

Cover: Erika Mary Brattstrom, Lucia 2009 for Skansen #147 Children’s Club at Viking Hall, Vasa Park, Budd Lake, NJ. Submitted by: Laura Brattstrom Page 3

Letter from the Editor When I sit down to write my Editorial I never really know what I will write about. But being this time of year, the first thing that comes to mind is how fast the year went by, again!

This year I only have one child living at home helping me making gingerbread cookies and saffron rolls for the 1st of advent, a tradition I hold sacred. Some of the history regarding advent and a recipe for gingerbread cookies is included in this issue.

Since this is our Christmas issue, we have a very interesting article about Jenny Nystöm who has mesmerized Swedes with her illustrations of “real Swedish tomtar” over the years that you will find under Culture.

Our cover has a new look and I hope you like it! I thought it was time to update our cover page to keep up with the times and what wouldn’t be more appropriate than a beautiful Lucia to introduce this new look! I also want to thank Jill Schroeder at our printing company; I wouldn’t have been able to do this without her. “Thank you very much Jill!”

Please take a moment and read about Helping Hands for Tony’s Hands on Page 28. This is the perfect time of the year to give to someone who could really use your help.

As you know, our Lucia’s will only be featured in the Jan/Feb issues of The Vasa Star.

Please observe deadlines for submissions of articles and pricing for Christmas Greetings on Page 3.

For the 2010 issues I would like to dedicate a page for the children called Kids Corner. The submission could be in the form of a story they have written, a cartoon, a poem or a drawing that has something to do with Sweden, whether they have been there or not. So for you parents and grandparents who read this, please pass the information to your children/grandchildren and encourage them to participate.

Remember to stay Happy and Healthy!

I wish you all a wonderful Christmas Holiday!

Marie “Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.”

-Unknown

Brev från Redaktören När jag sätter mig ner för att skriva min Ledare vet jag aldrig egentligen vad jag ska skriva om.

Men under den här tiden på året kan jag inte låta bli att tänka på hur fort det gick, igen!

I år har jag endast ett barn som bor hemma och som kan hjälpa mig baka pepparkakor och lussekatter till 1:a advent, en tratition som är helig för mig. Litet historia angående advent och ett recept för pepparkakor kan hitta i den här upplagan.

Eftersom detta är vår vår julupplaga, har vi en mycket intressant artikel som handlar om Jenny Nyström och som har hypnotiserat svenskarna med sina illustrationer av “svenska tomtar” genom åren, det hittar ni under Culture.

Vårt omslag har ett “nytt ansikte” och jag hoppas ni tycker om det! Jag tyckte det var dags att förnya och uppdatera oss litet och vad passar inte bättre än en vacker Lucia som introducerar denna nya look! Jag vill också passa på att tacka Jill Schroeder på vårt tryckeri; utan henne skulle detta inte vara möjligt. “Tusen tack Jill!.”

Ta er litet tid och läs om Helping Hands for Tony’s Hands, på sidan 28. Det här är den perfekta tiden på året att kunna ge till någon som verkligen behöver er hjälp, om ni har möjlighet.

Som ni vet, presenteras våra Lucior endast i Januari/Februari upplagan av Vasastjärnan.

Var vänlig observera senaste datum för insända artiklar och priser för julhälsningar på sida 3.

För våra 2010 upplagor skulle jag vilje ge barnen en sida som kommer hete Kids Corner.

Bidragen kan vara en berättelse de skrivit, en liten tecknad serie, en dikt eller en teckning som handlar om något som har att göra med Sverige, huruvida de varit där eller inte. Så till er föräldrar, mor- och farföräldrar som läser detta, berätta om det här för era barn/barnbarn och uppmuntra dem till att delta.

Kom ihåg att vara Glad och Håll Er Friska!

Jag önskar er alla en underbar julhelg!

Marie “Klaga inte på att bli äldre. Det är en privilegie som förnekas många.”

-Okänd

PAGE 23

TABLE OF CONTENTS Archives News ......................................................5 Swedish Language Lesson 20 .............................6 Grand Lodge News ..............................................7 Grand Lodge Convention FAQ Activity Schedule Registration Form GL Convention Items for Sale Lodge News ........................................................11 Swedish Lodge News .........................................15 Family .................................................................18 Wedding Announcement Wecome To Our New Members .......................19 Christmas Greetings..........................................20 Culture................................................................23 Jenny Nyström Advent Happenings.........................................................26 Vasa Ceremony to Honor Wallenberg VIP Visitors to Tenneessee Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Brick Autumnfest and Marknad at Vasa Park Trollebo Family Camp Helping Hands for Tony’s Hands Emigration Conference 2010 In Memoriam .....................................................29

AUDIO-VISUAL DIRECTOR Todd Anderson 1383 Middlebrook Way • Rohnert Park, CA, 94928 • Cell Phone: (707) 694-1345 E-mail: audiovisual.vasaorder@yahoo.com The Vasa website at www.vasaorder.com contains a “materials button” which has the listing of audio visual materials available.

If you are unable to use the Vasa website, you can still ask that a listing be sent to you by mail.

Page 4

PAGE 27 Vasa Star November-December 2009

ARCHIVES NEWS THANK YOU! A big thank you from the board members of the Vasa National Archives goes to SiljanMora-Tuna #134 (D.L. #8) member, Rey Carlberg, for doing an excellent job in refurbishing two Vasa emblems both of which hang on the outside of the building the one over the front entrance and the other by the side door.

“Tusen tack och bra gjort!”

Submitted by: Sten Hult, Board member Vasa National Archives

The Tomten Hard is the cold of Midwinter's night, stars sparkle and gleam.

In the lonely town at this midnight hour, all are sleeping.

Moon wanders its silent way, snow lights white on fir and spruce, snow lights white on roofs.

Only tomten is awake.

Tomten Midvinternattens köld är hård, stjärnorna gnistra och glimma.

Alla sova i enslig gård djupt under midnattstimma.

Rey holding the emblems that he repainted.

New Arrival at the Archives We proudly announce the arrival of our brand new baby boy, Finn Bror Jenner. He was born November 16th, 2009 and weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz. His big brother Jesper is very excited, as we all are. Everything is great with Mom and baby, and we look forward to spending Christmas with family in Bishop Hill.

Our Best Holiday Greetings, Lars and Anne.

Månen vandrar sin tysta ban, snön lyser vit på fur och gran, snön lyser vit på taken.

Endast tomten är vaken.

Lodge Stenland #727 Lucia and Jul Fest on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12th, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.

GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH 112 N. Main Street, Pearl River, N.Y. 10965 Donation $7.00 under 16 free Come for glögg, coffee, cakes, cookies and a raffle For info, call: 845/425-1574 or email: ingridallison@optonline.net

Finn Bror Jenner Vasa Star November-December 2009

Page 5

Swedish Language Lessons

By Lillemor and Richard Horngren

LEARNING SWEDISH – LESSON 20 Where has the year gone? Now we are facing the long and dark winter. We should all be like children and enjoy what nature has to offer regardless of the season. Perhaps you can recall, when as a child, you did not let bad weather prevent you from heading out because it might have been raining, snowing or the temperatures were below freezing. If at this time, you do not want to join the children but instead preferring to stay inside in your favorite chair…and of course studying the Swedish language lessons. Well, maybe at least some of the time. Just a few minutes a day practicing words you know is really all it takes.

NYA ORD – NEW WORDS hela the whole år, -et, --year kallt cold regnigt rainy sommar, -en, somrar summer solig, -t, soliga sunny höst, -en, -ar fall/autumn bättre better regn rain nästan almost varje dag every day dessutom furthermore, besides kort, kortare, kortast short mycket att göra much to do en del a few kväll, -en, ar evening att tillhöra, tillhör, tillhörde, tillhört to belong att träna, tränar, tränade, tränat to practice brottning wrestling vecka, -n. veckor week att spela, spelar, spelade, spelat to play utomhus outside att snöa, snöar, snöade, snöat to snow snöflinga, -n, snöflingor snowflakes att vakna, vaknar, vaknade, vaknat to awaken att sluta, slutar, slutade, slutat to end eftersom since att bestämma, bestämmer, bestämde, bestämt to decide snölykta, -n, snölyktor snowball lantern ha tur have luck kramsnö wet snow mark, -en, -er ground tomt, -en, -er yard att bygga, bygger, byggde, byggt to build ljus, -en, --candle mörkna darken Page 6

att tända, tänder, tände, tänt människor gick förbi att stanna, stannar, stannade, stannat fotografera vackra

to light people walked past to stop to take a photo beautiful

SVENSKA – SWEDISH Hela året har varit kallt och regnigt. Sommaren hade inte många soliga dagar. Hösten var inte bättre. Regn nästan varje dag. Dessutom började dagarna bli kortare.

Tvillingarna hade mycket att göra både i skolan och en del kvällar i veckan. Karin Helena tillhör en gymnastikklubb och Lars Olof tränar brottning en dag i veckan. Båda barnen spelar i skolorkestern. De spelar fiol och trumpet. Så de har inte spenderat mycket tid utomhus.

En kväll började det snöa. Snöflingorna var stora och mycket vackra. När tvillingarna vaknade på morgonen hade det inte slutat att snöa.

Eftersom det var lördag behövde inte barnen gå till skolan.

De bestämde sig för att göra snölyktor. Om de hade tur skulle det vara kramsnö på marken.

De spenderade flera timmar ute på tomten och byggde många snölyktor. De hade fått ljus från Ingrid. När det började mörkna tände de ljusen. Människor som gick förbi stannade och fotograferade de vackra snölyktorna.

ENGELSKA – ENGLISH The whole year has been cold and rainy. The summer did not have many sunny days. The fall was not better. It rained almost every day. Furthermore the days are starting to get shorter.

The twins had much to do both in school and a few days in the week. Karin Helena belongs to a gymnastic club and Lars Olof practices wrestling once a week. Both of the children play in the school orchestra. They play the violin and the trumpet.

They do not have much time to spend outdoors.

One evening it started to snow. The snowflakes were large and very beautiful. When the twins awakened in the morning it had not stopped snowing.

Since it was Saturday the children did not need to go to school. They decided to make snowball lanterns. If they were lucky there would be wet snow on the ground.

They spent several hours out in the yard and built many snowball lanterns. They had gotten candles from Ingrid. When it started to get dark they lit the candles. People passing by stopped and took photos of the beautiful snowball lanterns.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

GRAND LODGE NEWS 2010 Grand Lodge Convention The convention committee has not been as active the last couple of months as previously, but some new actions have been accomplished. For example we have now confirmed a caterer for the House of Sweden reception for Saturday evening. We have also confirmed that Jeannie Andersen’s ‘Smörgåsbandet’ will play for the dance at the Grand Banquet on Thursday evening. We are still working on a few other items that would be of interest. Possibly these can be confirmed in the next issue of the Vasa Star.

One change that only affects new delegates is that the New Delegate Breakfast will be held on Saturday morning at the Marriott, rather than Sunday morning as listed in last month’s issue. We highlighted the Friday evening opening dessert reception last time. This time the focus is the Saturday evening reception at the House of Sweden (HOS). The HOS is a four-story building that houses the Embassy of Sweden. However, the building has offices and apartments, as well as an

event center that features conference and exhibition halls. It is situated on the Potomac River, in the heart of Georgetown. The building was awarded Sweden's most prestigious architecture award; the Kasper Salin Prize for best building. To learn more about the HOS see the website, http://www.houseofsweden.com.

The plan for the GL Convention visit is to have staged tours of the Embassy, possibly by busload, beginning at about 6 PM. A catered light dinner reception – no place to sit down for everyone – begins at about 7 PM. Background music will be provided by Svenska Spelman, a Jamestown NY ensemble.

Drott Lodge #168 will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2010 and they plan on providing a visual presentation of their lodge’s history during the reception. Just to see the HOS would be well worth the trip to Washington, DC. Please look at the full activities schedule in the following pages of the Vasa Star. Also find a registration form and a page advertising items that DL

Pennsylvania #9 has for sale as an effort to help fund the convention. Note that this information is also available on the Grand Lodge website, where you also have the option of purchasing items and registering for the convention using a credit card. Note in particular that the pictures of the sale items are in color on the website. This may help you decide to purchase some of them. More details next issue.

Submitted by: Rolf Bergman, Grand Master C. Richard Overberg, Grand Treasurer and Convention Chair

Frequently Asked Questions What Does the Lodge Historian Do? Each month, a Vasa lodge meets, has a dinner, presents a program, and conducts a meeting. Another page is written about the history of the Vasa Order of America. Is it being recorded or is it just breezing by without a second glance? The lodge Historian is responsible for keeping that history alive.

How? A scrapbook is the easiest way.

Many items can go in that scrapbook – newsletters, minutes of the meeting, a written account of an activity, flyers, photographs with names, newspaper clippings, membership lists, guest lists, written histories, biographies of members, oral histories, or any other items of interest. Other methods can include albums, binders, posters, videos, audio recordings, or any other method of display.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Local Lodge Historian – make an extra copy of your items and send them to the District Historian. The District Historian keeps information about the local lodges plus the same for district. The District Historian reports to the Grand Lodge Historian, with copies of what has been collected. Then, finally, the history of the Vasa Order of America will be recorded for all time at the Vasa Archives where researchers will find the gems of history about your particular local lodge.

The Constitution for Local Lodge and for District Lodge provides the description of the duties of Historian.

It’s a very important position in the Vasa Order. Please don’t let the history of Vasa drift off into the clouds.

Page 7

ACTIVITY SCHEDULE for the 37th Grand Lodge Convention July 2 Ǧ 8, 2010 – Washington, DC Friday, July 2 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Registration Desk open.

8:00 – 10:00 PM

Welcome ‘Dessert’ Reception hosted by DL Pennsylvania No. 9; free to all who registered. Entertainment provided by DL New Jersey No. 6 Vasastjärnan Youth Club.

Saturday, July 3 9.00 AM – 12:00 PM

Registration Desk open.

8:30 – 10:00 AM

New delegate breakfast: sponsored by the Grand Lodge

1:00 - 2:15 PM

Opening Ceremony with special greetings, presentation of flags by Vasastjärnan Youth Club and introductions of Grand Lodge Officers.

2:15 – 2:45 PM

Coffee break

2:45 – 4:30 PM

Opening Session for Grand Lodge Officers and Delegates; Vasa members invited to join.

5:30 – 10:30 PM

Reception at the House of Sweden. Two busses leave for the House of Sweden at 5:30 PM and return for additional trip at 6:00 PM. Tours of the Embassy and upper floors of HOS starting at 6:00 PM (staggered small tour groups). Light buffet open at 7:00 PM including a glass of wine. Music provided by ‘Svenska Spelman’ group from Jamestown, NY. Busses return to Marriott at 9:45 and 10:15 P.M. Cost: $85/person.

Sunday, July 4

Free day for everyone to enjoy Independence Day in downtown Washington. Because of the difficulty of travel in Washington on July 4th, no scheduled tours are planned.

Monday, July 5 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Session for Grand Lodge Officers and Delegates.

Free day and evening for guests to tour Washington on their own.

Tuesday, July 6 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Mt. Vernon Tour. No Grand Lodge Session. Busses leave hotel for Mt. Vernon, home of President George Washington, at 8:15 AM. Tour Mt. Vernon for four hours; mansion, new visitor's center, shops and food court. Busses leave Mt Washington at 1:45 PM for return to Marriott. Cost: $40/person. See www.Mountvernon.org.

7:00 – 10:00 PM

Cultural, membership and web seminars – responsibility of GL Ex Bd

Wednesday, July 7 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Session for Grand Lodge Officers and Delegates.

10:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Non-delegate Tour of Hillwood Estate; lunch included. Cost: $55/person. See www.hillwoodmuseum.org.

Thursday, July 8 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Session for Grand Lodge Officers and Delegates; election and installation of new officers

6:00 – 7:00 PM.

Cocktail hour (cash bar) and photo opportunities.

7:00 – Midnight

Grand Banquet with entertainment and dancing. Dance music by Smörgåsbandet.

Cost: $115/person

Page 8

Vasa Star November-December 2009

REGISTRATION FORM REGISTRATION FORM Lodge Convention • July 2 - July 8, 2010 3737Grand th Grand Lodge Convention • July 2 – July 8, 2010 th

Registration Deadline: May 14, 2010

www. vasaorder.com

NOTE: Grand Lodge Officers, Honorary Life Members of the Grand Lodge and Delegates receive complimentary tickets for the Saturday and Thursday nights banquets, and the Tuesday tour. Spouses and other participants are responsible for payment of all events in which they partake except for the Friday Welcome Reception.

Total Cost of Registration may be paid either by check (see details below) or by credit card using the capability on the Grand Lodge website shown above.

No. of People Attending

Price Per Person Total Cost (Prices in U.S. $)

Date, Week Day a

Event (Please see Activity Schedule in this Vasa Star issue for event details)

July 2, Friday

Welcome Reception

No Cost

July 3, Saturday

Reception at House of Sweden

$ 85

July 4, Sunday

Free day to enjoy Independence Day in Washington

Your cost

July 6, Tuesday

Tour: Mt. Vernon

$ 40

July 7, Wednesday

Non-delegate Tour: Hillwood

$ 55

July 8, Thursday

Grand Banquet

$ 115

PLEASE WRITE CHECK TO: Grand Lodge 2010 Convention MAIL TO: Sharen Tizzano, 2250 Par Lane #1217, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

Total Included: $ _________

Note: Advance Registration is required for, or a portion of, the Convention, including the Welcome Reception!

Personal Information: Please Print Clearly Name _____________________________________________

Local Lodge & No. ________________________

Address ___________________________________________

District Lodge & No. ______________________

City _____________________________________ Country ___________________

State/Prov. __________

Zip/Postal Code_____________

Phone Number: Country Code/Area Code/Number ____________________

E-mail Address ____________________________________________________________ (How many?) Delegate ___ GL Officer (Elected) ___ GL Officer (Appointed) ___ GL Honorary Life Member ___ ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Please make your Hotel Reservations directly with the Hotel to ensure Convention rates x 775 12th Street NW Washington, DC 20005 USA x Phone: 1-202-737-2200 x Fax: 1-202-347-5886 x Toll-free: 1-800-393-2510 You can make reservations by calling the Marriott at the number above or by using the internet. If you call to make the reservation the group name is VASA 2010.

You can also register at the hotel using the internet using the information found on the Grand Lodge webpage shown at the top.

x Room rate: $159 (+ tax of 14.4 %) per night for all rooms. x $159 rate applies for one, two, three or four people per room. x Rooms contain either One King or Two Double Beds x All rooms are non-smoking x $159 room rate available between June 30 and July 12, 2010. x Reservation deadline is 6:00 PM, Friday, June 11, 2010 to obtain rooms at above rate.

Expected arrival date ________________________ Expected departure date ___________________________ Sharing room with _________________________________ Vasa Star November-December 2009

Page 9

2010 Grand Lodge Convention Items for Sale The following items are offered for sale by the 2010 GL Convention Committee to help host DL Pennsylvania No. 9 raise funds for the convention. Thank you for your support!

Dalahäst Dalahäst Lapel Pin Pin Lapel

Sweatshirt 50/50 blend

ORDER FORM Note: Sales tax is included in prices.

S Name ________________________________________________________ H I Address _______________________________________________________ P City __________________________________ State ______ Zip ___________

Note: If purchasing dalahäst lapel pins only, a shipping charge of $5.00 applies for any amount purchased.

T Phone No. ____________________________ Country _____________________ O Email _______________________________________________________________ Quantity

Item Description Dalahäst lapel pin (size shown in relation to penny) Nordic Flags Sweatshirt, YthM __ YthL__ S__ M__ L__ XL__ XXL__ XXXL__ 3040 ‘Daphne’ greeting cards, 4.25x5.5 in, blank inside, “Ornament Tree”; 8-pack 3041 ‘Daphne’ greeting cards, 4.25x5.5 in, blank, “Bird Winter Feast”; 8-pack 3043 ‘Daphne’ greeting cards, 4.25x5.5 in, blank, “Lucia with berries”; 8-pack 3045 ‘Daphne’ greeting cards, 4.25x5.5 in, blank, “Christmas Treats”; 8-pack 3048 ‘Daphne’ greeting card, 4.25x5.5 in, blank, “Straw Ornaments”; 8-pack

Please write check to: 2010 Grand Lodge Convention Mail your order and check to: Dorothy Overberg, 5431 Patton, Erie, PA 16509 Phone: (814) 864-2406 Email: croverberg@aim.com

Price Each $ 7.00 $ 20.00 $ 6.00 $ 6.00 $ 6.00 $ 6.00 $ 6.00 Subtotal Shipping (see chart) TOTAL INCLUDED

Total

Shipping and Handling (USA) Please call for orders above $150.00 or for any order to Canada or to Sweden Subtotal Shipping Subtotal Shipping Subtotal Shipping $0.00-$18.00 $18.01-$36.00 $36.01-$54.00 $5.00 $8.00 $10.00 $54.01-$80.00 $80.01-$110.00 $110.01-$150.00 $12.00 $15.00 $18.00

Page 10

Vasa Star November-December 2009

LODGE NEWS Thule Lodge #127

Linné Lodge #153

Jamestown/Bemus Point, NY

South Bend, IN

Hello from Thule Lodge #127 in the Jamestown/Bemus Point, NY area. Our lodge has seen a wonderful summer and fall season with many activities. Our Friday night fish dinners concluded its season in September, and then the annual Swiss steak dinner was held a few weeks later. The annual Harvest dinner featuring a full turkey dinner was held in October.

Many members and guests enjoyed the wonderful dinners and fellowship at the lodge.

Our monthly meetings changed from the summer season to the fall season, whereby the meetings are held on the third Saturday afternoon of each month beginning at 2 PM. This schedule will continue during the winter months through March. Each meeting features the activities and events of the lodge, followed by refreshments. Lodge chairman Eugene Johnson welcomes all too each meeting, always adding some humor to the time.

At one of our recent meetings, Steven R. Pickett, a recent high school graduate, was awarded the Vasa Order of America, Grand Lodge Scholarship and certificate of recognition. Donna Johnson, our chil-

Thule Lodge #127 past chairmen recently conducted the monthly meeting of the lodge.

Shown in the photograph with their special jackets, Vasa Order of America ties, and pins are Robert Fuller, immediate past chairman and Nels John Nelson, outer guardsman.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

dren's dance team leader and Mistress of Ceremony, and past district master Edwin Sandberg presented the certificate to Steven. Steven has been active with the Scandinavian Studies program held monthly in Jamestown, and is attending the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Steven is the grandson of immediate past Chairman Robert and cultural leader Fanchon Fuller.

Fanchon Fuller recently recognized lodge member Timothy Miller with a certificate for his many efforts with our lodge. Photographs of each event were taken by lodge historian John Sipos.

Thule Lodge will conclude its 102nd year as a lodge in the Jamestown area in December. If you are in our area, we would be happy for you to visit our lodge at 4123 Pancake Hill Road. “God dag” to all!

Submitted by: John Sipos, Historian

Tegnér Lodge #149 Oakland, CA The members of Tegnér Lodge #149 of Oakland, CA, enjoyed a crayfish feast in August at the home of Chairman Marie Ann Hill. Many of the members were traveling or unable to attend for one reason or another so attendance was smaller than usual. However, a good time was reported.

We were back at Björnson Hall in September. Charlotte Weissenborn prepared the delicious entree because our “chef” Stig Bjork was ill and unable to attend. Other members contributed food as usual for our potluck dinner. The Charter was draped in memory of longtime (and honorary life) member, Ruby Nichelini. Many members told of their memories of Ruby. She was a special person and we will all miss her very much.

For our cultural program Kathryn Hughes and Richard Orlando told us about their trip to Norway, Denmark and Sweden, and showed us some of their pictures. It was most interesting. We are now making plans for our 101st Anniversary in November.

Linné Lodge #153 celebrated its 100th anniversary on September 12, 2009 at the Elk’s Lodge in South Bend, IN. Cocktail hour was observed with accordion music provided by Lyle Anderson. It was followed by a delicious Scandinavian buffet.

Entertainment after dinner was provided by the Nordikids of Munster, IN. Our guest speaker was archivist, Lars Jenner from Bishop Hill, IL. He read minutes of Linné Lodge #153, which gave the history of the first meeting, and gave an overall view of what information is available for the lodges at the archives.

Helge Swanson (age 103), an 80-year member of Vasa, was honored, unfortunately he was not feeling well enough to attend. Thelma Nelson was recognized for her long-standing (58 years) membership in our lodge. Guests included dignitaries from the Grand and District Lodges.

A raffle was held, and the winners were: 1st Place Winner $300.00 – Jack Graudin (Viljan #349); 2nd Place Winner $200.00 - Elinor Huggett (Linné Lodge #153); and 3rd Place Winner $100.00 Bob Anderson of Skokie, IL. It was an enjoyable evening, and fun was had by all!

Submitted by: Lorraine Cooper Pictures by: Elinor Huggett

Nordikids

Submitted by: Ann Tennis Page 11

Brahe Lodge #245

Svea Lodge #296

Rockford, IL

Erie, PA

Forty members of our Vasa Brahe Lodge #245 enjoyed a “corn boil” at our new lodge in Vasa Park in Rockford Illinois on a cool, rainy evening in August. Besides having delicious fresh Illinois “corn on the cob,” we had brats, baked beans, watermelon, cake, brownies, and refreshments!

Vice-chairman David Tollin conducted a business meeting after our feast.

Highlight was for three candidates to become new members of our Brahe Lodge! At last, Brahe is once again growing! Hurrah!

On July 23, our Vasa Brahe Lodge #245 members were treated to an Ice Cream Social with pie.

On September 12th the Erie County Historical Society presented the 5th Annual Heritage Festival at Liberty Park.

This is a lovely spot on the bay and includes an amphitheater. The Erie Philharmonic presented a concert which ended with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. Our flagship “Niagara” sailed by and fired off its cannons, as fireworks lit up the sky.

Our lodge had a booth for the day as part of “Ethnic Marketplace Demonstrators and Information” – we wore our Scandinavian costumes, sold some ornaments, jewelry, shirts, etc. We handed out information about our lodge and a listing of famous people with a Scandinavian background. There were pepparkakor and apples for free. Many visitors seemed to enjoy our display. The day was gorgeous – sunny and mild. I think we gave a very good impression and enjoyed ourselves doing it.

Submitted by: Dennis G. Eksten

Submitted by: Linda Collin

Members gathering for a “corn boil” in our new lodge.

Skandia Lodge #247 Pasadena, CA All it takes is some imagination and so many wonderful things can happen. The 20th of July 2009 was the fortieth anniversary of the first men to walk on the moon. On July 20, 1969, you could listen to Buzz Aldrin speak about his military career and his special assignments as an astronaut. Now the vision turns to Mars. So many fantastic events have occurred during our lifetimes.

Another “remarkable” event occurred at the Norton Simon Museum with the production of an afternoon of opera with mezzo soprano Suzanna Guzman, a native of Los Angeles, soprano Alba Quezada, born and raised in Rosemead, and pianist Lisa Edwards, a resident of

Sierra Madre. They are all superbly talented performers that produced an interactive introduction to the world of opera titled, “Don’t be afraid! It’s just opera…and art.” Ms. Guzman was the narrator as well as soloist and teamed with Alba Quezada for marvelous duets.

Her presentations and explanations of opera and opera voice will be well remembered by the audience.

In September, the Orcutt family had planned a pizza party for us all to enjoy.

Also in September, the members of the lodge joined our delegates for the Vasa Park Association.

Written by: Jackie Ahlen Submitted by: Bob Solt

Joanne Dahlstrand, Linda Collin, Berit Benacci, Kay Lynne Picheco and Cheryl Brown.

Frihet Lodge #401 Seattle, WA How exciting it was to answer the phone and to have Ellen Cirino inform me that Frihet Lodge #401 won the 3'd prize of the sum of $250.00 from the 2010 Grand Lodge Convention raffle drawing. Frihet Lodge #401 has been supporting these raffles for many years, so you see it does pay off'!

Our members are all wonderful people, and I am ever so honored and privileged to act as their chairman.

Continued on page 13

Page 12

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Frihet Lodge #401

Linde Lodge #492

Continued from page 12

Milwaukee, WI

Frihet was one of the lodges that sponsored our District Pacific Northwest #13 Convention during September. We are

also setting up a scholarship fund for our younger members.

Submitted by: Karla Anderson

Winners of 3rd Place GL Raffle Some of our members were so gracious to meet so this photo could be taken. Between them is 226 years of Vasa membership experience. Back row, l-r: Helen and Glen Allen, DD of our lodge, they are our Financial Secretaries, each a 65-year member of Vasa, Karen Riston, Vice Chairman, 8-year member. Front row, l-r: Doris Del Ciello, Assistant Secretary and 56-year member of Vasa, Julian (Del) Del Ciello, our Treasurer, a 36-year member of Vasa. Just a few of our great team, each are special.

Linde ended the summer season with the 7th Annual “Kräftskiva” at the Ekstrand’s home. 20-something brave souls came dressed in sweats and with blankets, as this was a cold summer day.

Temperatures were only in the 60s, however, it did not stop the fun. The crayfish got polished off, but most everything had leftovers. Everyone brought a dish, and we had everything from herring, eggs, “gubbröra,” “Janson’s frestelse” to pasta and potato salads, sausage, cheeses, sloppy Joe’s, chicken casseroles, “biff a la Lindström,” meatballs and “prinskorv,” and that is not mentioning the ten different desserts. But best of all was that we had new potential members that we have found during the summer.

One of the new members, Sam Barrette, has also started a “Svensk Diskussions Afton,” which we will try to conduct once a month. We will only speak Swedish at these gatherings.

Submitted by: Liza Ekstrand

Sveaborg Lodge #449 Concord, CA Several members of Sveaborg Lodge #449, Concord, CA, were recently honored for their many years of membership and service in this Vasa Order of America lodge.

Tina Martin has been a member for 50 years. Her mother, Elizabeth Nordgren, was Golden Gate District Master, 1959-60. Marlene Swaffar was a member for 55 years.

Her husband, Baxter Swaffar, was Golden Gate District Master, 1980-81. Marlene’s father, Ragnar Berg, was Golden Gate District Master, 1954-55. Presenting the pins was Joanie Graham, current Grand Lodge Secretary.

Submitted by: Bob Burman Photos by: Baxter Swaffar

Marlene Swaffar, Sveaborg Lodge #449, receives 55-year pin from Joanie Graham, Grand Lodge Secretary.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Tina Martin, Sveaborg Lodge #449, receives 55-year pin from Joanie Graham, Grand Lodge Secretary.

Sten Hult and Jake Gruel finishing off the last “kräftor.” Both of them are PDMs in District #8, and also involved in the Grand Lodge as well as the Vasa National Archives.

A plate full of crayfish.

Page 13

Lindbergh Lodge #494 Palo Alto, California On July 10 Lindbergh Lodge celebrated its 82nd anniversary with a gala affair that included a catered dinner and a great 7 piece band for dancing and entertainment!

We were pleased to include amongst our guests and visitors the following Vasa dignitaries. Grand Lodge Executive Board Member Tore Kellgren, New District Master Richard Wooster, Vice District Master Scott Mathews, Past District Master Kathy Mathews, District Exec.

Board Members “Swede” Englund and Vicky Fedor-Thurman, District Deputy Mona Clemens The Festivities included a special performance by Lodge member Gerry Blaufarb (in appropriate costume) with his tap dance rendition of I’m A Yankee Doodle Dandy, with everyone singing along. The Chairman then asked all members and guests with a July birthday to come forward while he corralled our usual special quartet to lead everyone in singing Happy Birthday and Ja må han leva, followed by a rousing four hurrahs.

With the band playing many popular songs during dessert and coffee, everyone was ready to get out on the dance floor and do some fancy stepping. It was a very enjoyable evening, the food was excellent and the fellowship was great, everyone was pleased that they had participated in the party.

evening at a local restaurant, The Cedar Tree, with 27 members and guests. It was a pleasant evening with much visiting and a wonderful treat of a local Barbershop group, “Riverside Chorus,” entertaining us in such a happy reflection of music.

Submitted by: Hazelle Mills and Kristi Betts

Scandia Lodge #728 Prescott, AZ On September 13, 2009, Scandia Lodge returned from a summer hiatus with the initiation of a new member, Geraldine Olson. She was brought to Vasa by current member, June Poe. We were informed by Maureen Anderson that member Al Albrechtsen is able to return home after his latest chemotherapy session for a cancerous growth behind his stomach. We were asked to keep him and his wife Gunhild in our prayers.

At the completion of the meeting we were entertained by Sharon Docksteader who presented the life of a Swedish immigrant in the mid 1800s in Minnesota. She was introduced as Matilda Moline Eckstrom, who, in fact, was her great grandmother. It was a most informative presentation, sponsored by our Cultural leader, Judy Hopkins.

Carl Widén Lodge #743 Austin, TX The Carl Widen Lodge #743 of Austin, Texas held their annual July picnic at the home of Charter member Alice Stried. This event is a fundraiser for the scholarships given each year and features a silent auction of items donated by the members. The 2009 scholarship is also given out at the picnic and this year was award to Todd Warren, son of member Debbie Warren.

Photos by Erik Lindquist Submitted by: Marlene Bartlett

Submitted by: Dennis Malarkey

Submitted by: Chuck Wallin

Skogen Lodge #700 Redding, CA An adventurous group of Skogen Lodge members spent a delightful day playing at Whiskeytown Lake on Sunday, August 16th, just before the beginning of school! We met at the picnic area by the beach for lunch, visiting and swimming.

Afterwards, we headed for the marina.

We had reserved a patio boat for the afternoon. How better to relax and forget your cares than to motor around the lake, finding quiet coves and dipping into beautiful swimming holes!

We ended the day with a fast run under the bridge and then to the marina to gas up the boat – only $6.43 for three fun-filled hours on the lake!

We must come again soon and bring a few more of our members. What a terrific day it was!

On September 19th we celebrated our 36th Anniversary. We enjoyed the Page 14

Leland Lundgren is the chair of the scholarship committee and Debbie Warren is the mother of the scholarship recipient.

Sharon Docksteader is wearing her Swedish costume.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

SWEDISH NEWS Logen Göteborg Nr 452 Göteborg, Sweden On September 5, 2009 the Göteborg Lodge #452 celebrated its 85th anniversary. The lodge was established in 1924, the same year as Calvin Coolidge was elected USA’s 30th president. The Göteborg Lodge #452 is the oldest Vasa Order lodge in Sweden. The commemoration party was held in the city center of Göteborg. Close to 80 Vasa sisters and brothers from Stockholm to Skåne participated in the celebration. An interesting exhibition had been organized by Charlotte Börjesson to present contacts between our lodge and lodges in the USA. We were also fortunate to have the Grand Lodge Deputy Ewa Pilhammar Andersson present during the ceremony and dinner. After the ceremonies concluded the evening was spent dancing until midnight. This anniversary will be remembered many years ahead... hopefully to the year 2024!

Submitted by: Torsten Olsson, Vice Chairman

Margaretha Ruthagen and FS Thorbjörn Ålund from the lodge #452 and Tiit Nurgberg from the lodge #626, Skövde.

Charlotte Börjesson, Margaretha Ålund and Elvy Jacobsson from lodge #452, Göteborg.

Logen Småland Nr 618 Jönköping hattsånger och vårsånger och med hjälp av pianisten Nisse Stenbäck sjöngs visorna glatt av alla. Systrarnas afton blev verkligen en kväll med många vackra hattar, god mat, mycket sång och glada skratt.

Varje år välkomnas och hyllas Texas Lucia av Hembygdsföreningen i Barkeryd i samverkan med Emigrantinstitutets Vänner och Vasa Orden av Amerikas Logen Småland Nr 618.

I 22 år har Texas Lucias utsetts av The Swedish Club i Houston och i 21 år har hon varje år kommit till Barkerydsdagen första lördagen i augusti.

Texas Lucia (2008) heter Eden Shapiro. Eden härstammar på sin mors sida från Dalsland och har även släkt i Värmland. Eden framförde i ett tal på Anette Atterling utmärkt svenska en hälsning från The Den 26 april var det dags för sista Swedish Club och berättade också om sig logemötet för våren i Logen Småland Nr själv. Från Logen Småland överlämnades 618. Kvällen till ära bar alla damer hattar. ett diplom som minne.

Från Barkeryds socken har många Ett bildspel med titeln “Huvudbonaden – igår och idag” visade dess historia från utvandrat till Texas. Först att resa dit var 1500-talet till idag. Ett allsångshäfte hade Sven Magnus Swenson (år 1838) och satts ihop för kvällen med både sedan följde många efter. Dagen firas till Vasa Star November-December 2009

minne av SM Swenson, som byggde ett ranchimperium i Texas, och alla andra utvandrade sockenbor.

Lördag den 8 augusti var det dags för årets sommarutflykt. Vi var inte så många den här gången som hade möjlighet att följa med men vi hade en härlig dag med vackert väder, intressanta platser, god mat och trevligt umgänge.

Vår resa gick först till Gamla Hjälmseryds kyrka där broder Rune Fornander berättade om kyrkans historia.

Nästa anhalt blev hos Eva Spångberg, konstnärinnan som gjort många vackra träskulpturer till kyrkor i södra Sverige.

Hon kunde inte själv visa oss runt utan vi fick se en mycket innehållsrik video om hennes liv och arbete. Efter videon tittade vi på hennes skulpturer i trädgården.

Efter detta var det dags för lunch på Ljunga Park, “Nordens största trähus.”

Mellan 1907 och 1947 var detta Sävsjö sanatorium en kureringsplats för svårt lungsjuka, mestadels tuberkulossjuka.

Efter en alldeles utmärkt lunch fortsatte vi till Komstad Kvarn för att höra om bygdens och kvarnens historia av Runo Svensson och sedan om Jonas Brunck, smålänningen som gett namn åt stadsdelen Bronx i New York av Elna Nilsson.

Vår resa höll sig inom Njudung på det småländska höglandet, där de kända Njudungskyrkorna finns. Dessa kyrkor (nio till antalet) är byggda på 1100-talet och kallas för “barfota kyrkor” då de saknar sockel. Det var naturligt att avsluta vår utflykt med ytterligare en av dessa, Norra Ljunga kyrka. Inne i kyrkan fick vi höra om Smålands största kyrkomålare, hovmålaren Pehr Hörberg (1746 – 1816), som hade bott i Komstad och gjort många kyrkomålningar i Småland och Östergötland. Den innehållsrika dagen avslutades i församlingshemmet med kaffe och Komstadkringlor.

Höstens första möte blev välbesökt.

Efter en skön och avkopplande sommar kändes det återigen bra att träffas och prata om sommaren som varit. Vårt första efter-kapitel fylldes med ett intressant föredrag om en Kanadaresa från öst till väst och tillbaka igen, både geografiskt och historiskt. Det var broder Stig Asterling från Logen Tre Hjärtan Nr 665 i Halmstad som tog oss med på denna resa. Som vanligt ingick en utmärkt middag och trevlig samvaro under kvällen.

Med denna rapport från Logen Småland önskas alla i Vasa Orden en fortsatt trevlig höst och också En God Jul och Ett Gott Nytt År!

Submitted by: Maureen Bengtsson, Cultural Leader Page 15

Logen Höganäs Nr 634

försäljning och dessa gick åt som smör i solsken.

Texten av: Elisabeth Västerstjärna Insänt av: Bo Västerstjärna

Smakprov Här är hela gänget samlade utanför Wild West Steakhouse.

Vi skulle ha vår “höstutflykt” på lördagen den 12 september och därför hade vi vårt möte på kvällen den 11 september. Vi var 44 st Vasasyskon som träffades och mötet gick ganska fort.

Efteråt samlades vi vid borden som var dukade med varsin landgång. Vi satt och pratade några timmar och kvällen avslutades med sång och gitarrspel av Broder Leif Larsson.

Vi åkte från Höganäs och hämtade upp systrar och brödrar på vägen. Denna dag var vi 52 Vasasyskon. Första stoppet var på en rastplats utanför Osby som heter Lars Dufwa. Där serverades frallor och kaffe och vi njöt av det fina vädret.

Resmålet var Huseby bruk som ligger lite söder om Växjö. Det var Carl Gyllenhielm som på 1620-talet lät anlägga ett järnbruk i just Huseby. Olika ägare har ägt bruket och den siste var Jospeh Stephens som efter sin död testamenterade godset till sin äldsta dotter Florence som i sin tur testamenterade bruket till staten innan hon dog 1979. Herrgården är väl bevarad och har en mycket väskött

Högvakten på besök under ledning av Höganäsaren Anders Albin. De hade en uppvisning tillsammans med Blå Stjärnans damer som red i damsadel.

Page 16

slottspark. Vi åt lunch på Restaurang Stallet och sedan fick vi gå runt i parken och titta. Just denna dag var den beridna högvakten på besök under ledning av Höganäsaren Anders Albin. De hade en uppvisning tillsammans med Blå Stjärnans damer som red i damsadel.

Färden gick vidare till Halmstad.

Broder Roy berättade lite om Simlångsdalen som är en tätort i Halmstad Kommun. Snart var det tid för oss att äta middag och det gjorde vi på Wild West Steakhouse, ett trevligt ställe med “mycket” god mat.

Sen blev det dags för hemfärd efter en, som vi alla tyckte, mycket trevlig “höstutflykt.”

Insänt av: Ingrid Berg, Kulturledare Foto: Hans Bogren och Ingrid Berg

Logen Malmöhus Nr 643 Höstens första logemöte för Malmöhus Nr 643 innehöll både sorg och glädje. Det hölls parentation för Bertil Hansson som avled i maj och Lars Helgeson som avled några dagar före mötet. Lars Helgeson har innehaft flera förtroendeuppdrag både i logen och på distriktsnivå bl.a. som DM för DL 20. Vi är många som har gett vårt stöd till Vasa Support Club efter att ha hört Lars Helgeson engagerat berätta om dess verksamhet.

Till efterkapitlet hade grupp 6 bjudit in Södra Skånes Snaps Sällskap. Under roliga former fick vi smaka på fyra olika snapsar och gissa vilka kryddor som hade gett smak. Det var inte lätt, men en del rätta gissningar blev det, och mycket skratt. Kryddornas verkningar, eller biverkningar i vissa fall, gicks igenom efter att snapsen var inmundigad.

Kryddblandningar och böcker fanns till

Barbro Vesterinen bjuder på entrésnapsar och tilltugg. Entrésnapsen smakade “Kungen av Danmark.”

Logen Knallen Nr 745 Vi samlades, ett femtiotal deltagare, vid Odd Fellowhuset i centrala Borås. Vi höll oss denna dag i Sjuhäradsbygden.

Vår buss förde oss i första hand till Hedared, på vägen mot Alingsås. Den gamla stavkyrkan, en klenod bland Sveriges gamla landskyrkor, förevisades av en verkligt kunnig och intressant Hedaredsbo. Han var dessutom professionellt insatt i byggnadsmaterial och byggnadsteknik och kunde förklara stavkyrkans konstruktion med stående stockar. Han berättade också, att sentida forskning kommit fram till att virket uppenbarligen inte hade sitt ursprung i medeltiden utan snarare i 1500- eller 1600-tal. Själva kyrkplatsen är emellertid betydligt äldre, och detaljer har påträffats med definitivt säkra medeltida rötter.

I Hedared besökte vi också paret Gun och Gustav Persson på Haraldsgården.

Gustav, gammal skogsman, har sedan många år ägnat sig åt ett mycket avancerat och konstfärdigt korgmakeri. Han Continued on page 17 Vasa Star November-December 2009

Logen Knallen Nr 745 Continued from page 16

Hedareds stavkyrka

avverkar de för ändamålet rätta furorna, som han med stor känsla sågar i lämpliga längder och dimensioner. Dessa blötläggs sedan för att få erforderlig spänst och böjlighet. Därefter framställs med hyvel och skarpa skärverktyg den fulländade rottingen, som slutligen flätas till korgar av olika former och storlekar.

Hustrun Gun stod också för konsthantverk på hög nivå. Vad vi särskilt minns är hennes lappteknik och hennes fantastiska applikationer. Gun och Gustav hade tillsammans en utställnings- och försäljningslokal, där vi kunde se, njuta och naturligtvis inhandla deras alster.

Det skall också sägas, att Haraldsgården och Hedared ligger i en mycket vacker och rofylld miljö, ett härligt stycke svensk landsbygd. Volvos provbana är i all hemlighet obemärkt lokaliserad i grannskapet. Ett antal arbetstillfällen har dock givit underlag för ett litet villasamhälle, Volvobyn, som väl smälter in i miljön.

Så lämnade vi Hedared och satte kurs mot Varnum, strax väster om Ulricehamn. Vi fick passera genom Borås för att nå vårt mål, närmare bestämt familjen

Wingborn på Ågården. Det har under åren blivit några vårutflykter till Ågården. Alltid har vi mötts av samma generositet och gästfrihet från Ulla-May, Anne-Louise och Bengt Wingborn. Där fick vi träffa Mats Johansson från Knätte, 3 mil bort (norr om Ulricehamn), som gjorde stilfull entré med sin “carriage” dragen av en vacker springare. Mats återkommer med sin bakgrund samt om en mycket speciell religiös sekt framsprungen ur den katolska kyrkan i 1500talets Holland och Schweitz. Det handlar om den så kallade anabaptismen, som senare fördes över till Amerika under 1700-talet. Den etablerade sig i de mellersta delarna av Nordamerika och har sedan spritt sig och finns i dag i cirka 35 stater, dock i stort sett bara på landsbygden. Den förekommer ej i storstäderna.

Sekten omges av mycket stränga regler vad gäller såväl det religiösa livet som den vardagliga tillvaron. Klädedräkten för såväl män som kvinnor ligger kvar på ungefär “1800-talsmode.” Att köra bil eller framföra andra motorfordon är förbjudet. Man får däremot åka som passagerare i exempelvis buss eller taxi. För lokala förflyttningar gäller häst och carriage, en 2-axlig, 2-sitsig vagn. Den kan vara helt öppen, täckt, försedd med dörrar eller till och med vindruta. De är helt beroende av ägarens ställning inom sekten. Det finns också en “cart,” en 1-axlig variant. Mycket finns givetvis att säga om denna oamerikanska lilla folkgrupp i det amerikanska samhället.

Vår vän Mats hade tröttnat på “svenssonlivet” som ingenjör i Mölndal.

Han köpte en liten gård i Knätte, dit han flyttade och “började om.” Han hade vid resor i USA fått kontakt med sekten och fascinerats av deras livsstil. Han importerade en Carriage, skaffade en häst och lät skägget växa. Bilen fanns inte med i bilden. Mats är inte medlem av

Mats anländer med sitt ekipage.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

sekten och står helt utanför det religiösa “reglementet” men har i övrigt anpassat sig till sin lantliga billösa men hästanspända tillvaro. Han har emellertid god kontakt med sina amerikanska bröder, som han ganska ofta besöker. Det har hittills blivit ca 15 resor.

Tiden gick snabbt på Ågården och det blev dags att åka hem efter en minnesvärd vårlördag med Logen Knallen i Sjuhäradsbygden.

Submitted by: Ingvar Carlén

Logen Bråviken Nr 751 Logen Bråvikens höststart är som vanligt en samling för att inbjuda släkt och vänner och presentera Vasa Orden av Amerika. Resan den här gången var tillsamman med de andra två Östgötalogerna Filbyter och Vadstena. Resan gick till Sommenbygderna i bästa tänkbara väder med en strålande sol.

Första annhalten för medtaget kaffe blev hembygdsgården i Malexander, som man kan säga är inkörsporten till Sommenbygden. Efter en stunds gemensam avkoppling åkte vi vidare genom det vackra Östgötska landskapet med de många sjöarna alldeles i gränsen mot Småland. Färjan tog oss över från Blåvik till Torpön för att besöka Naturum och inte minst beskåda Urkon, en skapelse i storformat av den berömda kon som skvätte mjölk omkring sig så rejält att det stora sjöområdet Sommen bildades. Ja, så är sägen! Från Sommen tas även vatten till stora delar av Småland och Skåne.

Man kan också hälsa på i Pigegråten en liten damm som ligger nedanför Traneberga. Det var pigan som fått kakor som hon lade ut i dammen för att ta sig över den, men man vet hur det går med kakor och vatten! Pigan lär ha drunknat i dammen.

Jätten Bule, ja, det är en annan histora.

Han blev kristen i slutet av sin levnad och fördes till hemmet i Bulsjö gård på en Oxdrög. Han blev begraven i närheten av gården Skarpenfelt och där restes en sten över Bule. Det finns två minnesstenar, avståndet mellan dem är 6 meter vilket skall vara Jätten Bules längd. Det finns många skrönor i Sommenbygden, och här är bara ett par av dem.

Det blev trevliga timmar och en laxlunch på Torpön innan färden gick vidare till Björn i Torpa, en skicklig hanverkare som visade upp sina vackra hantverk i trä.

Sista delen av resan blev ett besök i Continued on page 18 Page 17

Logen Bråviken Nr 751 Continued from page 17

Kvarnkulla Trädgård för att sedan avslutas på Brostorps gård inte långt från Boxholm. Kaffe intogs som serverades med gådens egna tillverkade ostkakor vilka också tillsammans med gårdens egentillverkade ostar kunde inhandlas till hyfsade priser.

En mycket trevligv resa i “Östergötlands Österlen” som Bråvikens Kulturledare Sy Una Jerlock ordnat tillsamman med maken Br. Karl och syskonen Ingrid och Las-Olov Ingesson.

Insänt av: Lisbeth H Qvarfordt Bilder av: Inge Hallberg

Anette och Jan Ek, Lisbeth o Inge Hallberg, Elisabeth Annerhult, Owe o Inger Norberg, Berit Johansson o Gerd Johansson (gäster), Stefan o. Chriss Hagfeldt, Ulrica Hofstedt, Carl-Magnus Erzell (gäster), Monica Calander, Owe Hilding, Karl-Axel Axelsson o Agnetha Nylin (gäst), Lillemor o Olof Nilsson, Marie Louise Hultin, Ingrid och Lars Olov Ingesson, Una och Karl Jerlock, Gunnar Jonsson (gäst), Astrid Johansson (gäst), Britta Holmberg (gäst), Elsie o. Stig Olof Claesson, Maj-Britt Strots (gäst), Vivianne Nord, Arne och Christina Lundin, Siv Furubacke o. Henry Axelsso, Solveig Larsson (gäst).

Logen Vadstena Nr 762

FAMILY Wedding Announcement

Glad högtidsstämning på podiet, Från v. Connie Grön DD Logen Skövde, Stig Carlsson ordf i Logen Vadstena, Einar Savolainen Grön Distriktsmästare och Logen Vadstena tidigare DD, Lisbeth H Qvarfordt FDM och HM i Logen Bråviken samt den nyutnämnda DD i Logen Vadstena och ordf i Logen Filbyter Arne Samuelsson.

Vi fyllde bilen med Vasamedlemmar från Logen Bråviken för att vara med i Vadstena. Det blev en högtidlig installation av Arne Samuelsson, som Distriktsdeputerad i den nyaste Logen i Sverige. “Jag är synnerligen stolt över att Br Arne nu blir vår DD,” sa Ordf Stig Carlsson i Vadstena. Dagen till ära hade vi ett strålande sensommarväder.

Logen Filbyter är fadderloge till den nybildade logen i Vadstena, liksom logen Bråviken Nr 751. Nämnas kan också att Ordf. Br Arnes Logen Filbyter fyller 35 år under 2010, vilket naturligtvis kommer att firas.

Många gäster, tio medlemmar från Page 18

Logen Filbyter och fem från Logen Bråviken, samt några nya gäster vid efterkapitlet gjorde kvällens feststämning. Vadstenalogen bjöd också på en fin högtidssupé med underhållning av Riksspelmannen Sven-Erik Wernander som spelade på sina egentillverkade fioler och nyckelharpor.

Så vände vi hem igen i den ljumma lördagskvällen och konstaterar att återigen har vi bevistat ett trevligt logemöte.

Nu gäller det att fylla bilen till nästa möte. Vasa Orden i Tiden!

Insänt av: Inge Hallberg Bilder av: Inge Hallberg

Elliott Codding, of Downey, and Heather Larson, of Irvine, was married September 12, 2009 at a private residence in Anaheim Hills. The bride, daughter of Valerie Larson of Irvine, and granddaughter of Peggy Pages, graduated in 2007 from Cal State Fullerton. She is a member of DL Pacific Southwest #15, North Star Lodge # 106. She works at Orange Coast College as the Communications & Marketing Assistant.

The groom, son of El Roy and Lynda Codding of Downey, graduated in 2006 from Cal State Fullerton. He is a Credentialed History Teacher and is currently a Substitute Teacher for the Downey Unified School District.

Submitted by: Heather Marie Larson Vasa Star November-December 2009

Welcome To Our New Members On behalf of the Grand Lodge and members of the Vasa Order of America, I am pleased to welcome you to membership in these local Vasa lodges. If you are new to the Vasa Order of America we bid you welcome. If you are transferring or are a dual member, your new lodge bids you welcome. We hope you will enjoy your membership and will participate in all of the activities planned for you.

Tore Kellgren, Grand Lodge Membership Chairman 5971 W. Walbrook Dr. San Jose, CA 95129 E-mail: tore@kellgren.org DL CONNECTICUT NO. 1 Karl The Xll #103 Allen Charlton Brandon Dandelski Linnea Neurath Anita Nyberg DL NEW JERSEY NO. 6 Viking #735 Michael Bird Nancy Sandor DL LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8 Joe Harbor #534 Darlene Kiessel Bishop Hill #683 Nancy Green Michael Stravsbaugh Sidsel Stravsbaugh Jubileum #755 Joan Sullivan DL GOLDEN GATE NO. 12 Sveaborg #449 David Seaborg Norden #684 Joseph Bell Elizabeth Xavier Golden Gate #700 Janice Oilar Joan Weaver Valhalla Scandinavia #746 Paul Henry DL PACIFIC NORTHWEST NO. 13 Norrskenet #189 Renee Van Demaele Norden #233 Marcia Aagaard Ralph Johnson Laurence Pratt

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Solidaritet #396 Carol Olson Frihet #401 Erik Bard Ingvar Carlson Gerald Johnson Olympia #550 Aimie Johnson Joni Johnson Julie Kapsandy Evelyn Rudstrom Dale Westman Verna Westman

Glenn T. Seaborg #719 Christopher Scott DL CENTRAL CANADA NO. 16 Strindberg #259 Merrill Berg Lars Jansson Craig Sidwall Linda Virag DL ALBERTA NO. 18 Nordstjarnan #575 Brandon Sharpe Breanne Sharpe

DL PACIFIC SOUTHWEST NO. 15 Viking #256 Kathleen Francis Kerri Mc Cluskey Juliana Nagel Connie Sahlin Evening Star #426 Kiley Jahn Kristiana Nordin Scandinavian #667 Hannah Johnson Baltic #689 Robert Hethmon James Peterson Marion Peterson Valley/Vikings #701 Ned Driggers

DL NORRA SVERIGE (SWEDEN) NO. 19 Härnösand #673 Barbro Dahlqvist Jan Kindsjö Mona Kindsjö Egiel Nordlöf Kongahälla #702 Ingegerd Johnsson Arne Lindström Lena Lindström Inez Ljungberg Jan Pettersson Ann Sievers Kenneth Sievers

Advertise in the Vasa Star Page 19

Holiday Greetings Unite Members and Lodges District Lodge Lake Michigan #8 wishes all our Vasa friends God Jul och Gott Nytt År Sheila Lundquist, DM Tom Cleveland, VDM Marge Gruel, DS Joella Hultgren, ADS Lisa Cianci, DT Ted Ruser, DHFS Andrea Wilczynski, DCL Lynda Smith, DSCYS Ed Hultgren, EBM Sue Cleveland, EBM Sten Hult, PDM

God Jul och Gott Nytt År VASA ORDER OF AMERICA GRAND LODGE EXECUTIVE BOARD Grand Master - Rolf S. Bergman Vice Grand Master - William Lundquist Grand Secretary - Joan Graham Grand Treasurer - C. Richard Overberg Vice Grand Secretary - Helen Mingram MEB-Eastern Region - Pamela Genelli MEB-Midwest Region - Jake Gruel MEB-Western Region - Tore Kellgren MEB-Sweden - Tore Tellberg MEB-Canada Ken Banks MEB-At-Large - Bertil Ericsson

God Jul och Gott Nytt År To All Our Vasa Friends from

District Lodge Pennsylvania #9 Bruce Elfvin District Master David Williams Vice District Master Sharen Swanson Tizzano District Secretary Richard Erickson District Treasurer Margaret Schueman Member Executive Board Linda Alexy District Cultural Leader Sandy Miller District Historian

Holiday Greetings from

Arizona District #21 District Master Vito Pantaleo

Tucson Lodge #691 Solstad Lodge #709 Phoenix Lodge #677 Scandia Lodge #728 Nordic Red Rocks Lodge #760

God Jul och Gott Nytt År from

Three Crown Lodge #38 Stamford, Connecticut Margit Anderson Karl Fritz Barbara K. Gardecki Pamela Groeschner

Phyllis Johnson Ernest V. Larson Shirley L. Leopold George & Ingrid Lukach

Richard J. Olson Ethel Thomas Helen Walding

God Jul och Gott Nytt År tillönskas alla Vasavänner i USA, Kanada och Sverige

Richard & Dorothy Overberg, GLT Page 20

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Nobel-Monitor Lodge #130 Cleveland, Ohio Christmas Greetings and Warm Wishes for Good Health and Much Happiness in the New Year to all our VASA friends Emil & Betty Arvidson Ralph & Marianne Johnson Eric & Maria Arvidson Allan & Valerie McAllister Rolf & Marty Bergman Darlene Nelson Burton & Gunvor Carlson Marie-Louise Nyborg Dorothy Carlson Betty Swenson Schaller Bruce & Jackie Elfvin Gail K. Smith Dick Erickson Bill Sweigard John Esborn Ernest Sweigert Lennart & Marianne Gotrich Sharen Swanson Tizzano Mildred Valand

God Jul och Gott Nytt År till alla VASA Syskom

Mayflower Lodge #445 Inglewood, California

God Jul och Gott Nytt År To All Our Vasa Friends

Skogen Lodge #700 Redding, California Best Wishes for Health and Happiness God Jul och Gott Nytt År from

Siljan Mora Tuna Lodge #134

Christmas Greetings from the Officers and Members of

Oscars Borg Lodge #172 Philadelphia, PA

Chicago Area

God Jul och Gott Nytt År från Officers and Members

Svea Lodge #296

Linda and Ken Alexy Mary Auwarter Maj-Britt Gabel Tony and Rae Kazlouski Doris Kirkpatrick Sharon and John Markel May Odell Dorothy Paley Dale and Linda Smith Virginia Swedberg Alice and Charles Thiee Helen Widman

God Jul och Gott Nytt År

Carl Widen Lodge #743 Austin, Texas

Erie, Pennsylvania

God Jul och Gott Nytt År Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

From all of us at

Frihet Lodge #401 Seattle, WA

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Page 21

Jul – och Nyårshälsningar från Distriktslogen Södra Sverige Nr 20 tttttttttttttttttttttttt t t t t t t t Distriktslogen Södra t t t Sverige Nr 20 t t t t God Jul och Gott Nytt År t t tillönskas t t alla Vasasyskon t Executive Board Members: t t t Catherine Bringselius Nilsson t t Olle Wickström t Åke Mellnert t t Ingrid Cannerhagen Bengt Hammargren t t Agneta Västerstjärna Bengt Åberg t t Maureen Bengtsson Anita Nilsson t t t t t tttttttttttttttttttttttt

tttttttttttttttttttttttt t t t t Vi önskar en God Jul t t och Gott Nytt År t Anita och Lennart Nilsson t t t DL Nr 20 LL Skåne Nr 570 t t t t tttttttttttttttttttttttt

tttttttttttttttttttttttt t t t t God Jul och Gott Nytt År t t tillönskas alla Vasasyskon t t t Logen Höganäs Nr 634 t t t t t tttttttttttttttttttttttt

Distriktslogen Norra Sverige Nr 19 tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt t t Unite Members and Lodges t t Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year t t to All Our Vasa Friends in the US, Canada and Sweden t t Lisbeth H. Qvarfordt and Inge Hallberg FDM LL751 Norrköping t t tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt

tttttttttttttttttttttttt t t God Jul och Gott Nytt År t t tillönskas alla Vasasyskon t t t t Göran och Catherine t t Bringselius Nilsson t DD LL Nr 680 och DM DL Nr 20 t t t tttttttttttttttttttttttt

tttttttttttttttttttttttt t t God Jul och Gott Nytt År t t tillönskas alla Vasasyskon t t i USA, Kanada och Sverige t t Knut Rosenkvist t t Maj-Lis Friedman t t Grand Lodge Deputy - DL Nr 20 t t tttttttttttttttttttttttt

tttttttttttttttttttttttt t t God Jul och Gott Nytt År t t tillönskas alla Vasavänner t t i USA, Kanada och Sverige t t t Gunnar och Siw Mossberg t t t PGLMEB t t tttttttttttttttttttttttt

Page 22

Ring klocka ring i bistra nyårsnatten mot rymdens norrskenssky och markens snö; det gamla året lägger sig att dö…

Ring själaringning över land och vatten.

Ring in det nya och ring ut det gamla och årets första skälvande minut, Ring lögnens makt från världens gränser ut, och ring in sanningens till oss som famlat.

ALFRED TENNYSON Vasa Star November-December 2009

CULTURE Jenny Nyström - Hela Sveriges Tomtemor (1854 – 1946) Jenny Nyström föddes i Kalmar 1854.

Pappan, Daniel, var folkskollärare och kantor i Slottskyrkan i Kalmar. Mamman, Anette, var en underbar mamma som enligt JN var en “hejare på att baka pepparkakshjärtan,” vilka ofta fanns med på JN:s julbilder. I familjen föddes fem barn, tre pojkar och två flickor. En dotter och en son dog i unga år, och de andra sönerna utvandrade till Amerika. Kvar i Sverige blev alltså bara yngsta barnet Jenny, som kom att bli en berömd konstnär och hela Sveriges Tomtemor.

Jenny hade en lycklig barndom i Kalmar, där hon älskade att leka med sina bröder och kamrater i morföräldrarnas stora, härliga trädgård. Då hon var åtta år flyttade familjen till Göteborg, där fadern fått ett bättre betalt jobb. Den första tiden blev jobbig för Jenny, eftersom hon saknade sina lekkamrater och längtade efter sina morföräldrar. Men då hon börjat i skolan fick hon nya vänner och upptäckte också glädjen i att rita och måla.

Några år senare kom hon in på Göteborgs (senare = Valands) målarskola. Eftersom hon var både flitig och begåvad, ansåg lärarna att hon var en av skolans allra bästa elever. Hon var bara 19 år, när hon kom in som elev på Konstakademien i Stockholm, där hon studerade i åtta år. För att få pengar till mat och hyra och arbetsmaterial under studietiden gjorde hon arbeten på beställning. Hon gjorde teckningar för tidningar och tidskrifter och även en hel del porträtt, som blev mycket uppmärksammad. Hon fortsatte arbeta oförtrutet, tog alla chanser att få illustrera barntidningar och barnböcker för att tjäna pengar. Hon började nu bli känd och alltmer uppmärksammad för sin konst. Hon fick flera priser och även, som första kvinna någonsin, kunglig medalj. År 1881 fick hon ett stipendium som gjorde det möjligt för henne att ta sig till Paris, så många konstnärers drömmål.

I Paris arbetade JN hårt från morgon till kväll. Först vid Konstakademien, och när skolan var slut för dagen, fortsatte hon arbeta hemma i ateljén med beställningsarbeten, något som var nödvändigt för att hon skulle kunna finansiera sina studier i Paris.

JN:s dröm var att komma med på Parissalongen, vilket var en stor konstutställning med tusentals besökare. Att få Vasa Star November-December 2009

vara med där, var för många konstnärer att få sin dröm uppfylld.

1884 kom JN med på Salongen med flera verk. Ett av dem var ett självporträtt i olja i helfigur och i närmast naturlig storlek. Självporträttet kan man i dag beundra på Kalmar Museum, där det finns en permanent utställning om Jenny Nyströms liv.

1887 gifte sig JN med Daniel Stoopendaal. Han studerade medicin men blev aldrig färdig läkare.

Han var sjuklig och det var JN som fick ha hela ansvaret för familjens försörjning och ekonomi. 1893 föddes sonen Curt. Han fick stå modell för många av de bilder med glada, lekande barn mamman producerade. Curt tog studenten och började studera medicin. Men då även han var konstnärligt begåvad, gick han i moderns fotspår. Han började i målarskola och blev konstnär, särskilt känd för att vara en duktig djurmålare. Hans stil påminde mycket om mammans och även han blev mycket uppskattad för sina vykort Han blev till stor hjälp för sin mamma. Sina arbeten signerade han ‘Curt Nyström’ och som konstnär behöll mamman sitt flicknamn: Jenny Nyström.

Det var under studieåren i Paris JN kom i kontakt med vykorten, som en engelsk firma introducerat. JN, som förstod att vykort var en ny produkt värd att satsa på, föreslog bl.a. till svenska bolaget Bonniers att börja trycka kort.

Hon skickade dem prov på gratulationskort hon själv gjort för den engelska firman, men Bonniers var inte intresserade.

Men grosshandlaren Axel Eliasson i södra Sverige trodde på JN:s idé och de inledde ett samarbete. Vykorten blev snabbt en försäljningssuccé Sedan dess hann JN göra förlagor till ca 5.000 helgoch gratulationskort. Efter första världskriget kom de första Mors Dagskorten, efter amerikansk förebild. Många är också de kort med religiösa motiv JN gjort. Hon blev Sveriges mest produktiva vykortsartist.

Som tidigare nämnts var JN en mycket begåvad konstnär. Hon gjorde fantastiska oljemålningar, porträtt av kända personer och vanligt folk. Särskilt omtyckta blev många av hennes fina barnporträtt, där sonen och hans kamrater fått vara modeller. Hon gjorde pasteller och akvareller.

Dessutom illustrerade hon många hundra

Jenny Nyström

vuxenböcker och barnböcker samt otaliga omslag till jultidningar. Hon gjorde juldukar i tyg och papper, bonader, pussel och bokmärken. Men det är ändå för sina tomtar och julkort hon är mest känd, för det var med julkorten hon nådde den stora publiken.

Tomten var inte någon uppfinning av Jenny Nyström, han har funnits i folktro och sagor sedan lång tid tillbaka. I folktron var tomten knappast något gott väsen, han var en pyssling man var lite rädd för. Om man inte höll sig väl med honom kunde man råka illa ut. Om man däremot var snäll mot honom, t.ex. gav honom gröt på julafton, var han mycket hjälpsam mot människorna. Han vaktade deras hus och djur, och varnade för eld och tjuvar. Men den godmodige, glade jultomten, som lyser av godhet och givmildhet, som är god vän med både människor och djur, den figuren har JN från början skapat, inspirerad av den svenske författaren Viktor Rydberg.

Rydberg skrev också en dikt, Tomten, och den dikten brukar läsas i många lokalloger sista logemötet före jul, i december.

Jenny Nyström blev 92 år, och hon fick alltså ett långt liv. Ändå är många så förundrade över att hon kunde och hann med att göra så många olika saker. Men om man känner till något om hennes livsContinued on page 24 Page 23

Jenny Nyström Continued from page 23

filosofi kan det vara lite lättare att förstå.

Hennes filosofi kan sammanfattas i några tänkvärda punkter: • Var glad och försök alltid tänka på det som är vackert och vänligt.

Elaka tankar åldrar och ger rynkor.

• Lägg dig tidigt och stig upp tidigt.

• Ät inte för mycket och framför allt inte stark och tung mat.

• Var tacksam!

• Skratta – även åt dig själv.

Insänt av: Gun Lith, SLKL Faktauppgifterna hämtade ur: Karl och Astrid Jäder: Jenny Nyström.

Gunnel Forsberg Warringer: God Jul med Jenny Nyström Foton: Gunnar Lith, efter julkort.

Jenny Nyström – Sweden’s ‘Mrs. Claus’ Jenny Nyström was born in Kalmar, southern Sweden in 1854. Her father, Daniel, was a teacher and the cantor of Kalmar Castle Church. Her mother, Anette, was a most wonderful mother who, according to JN, was a fantastic baker of ginger bread hearts which can often be seen in her Christmas pictures.

Five children were born, three boys and two girls. One daughter and one son died very young, and the other two sons immigrated to America. So the only child to remain in Sweden was the youngest one, Jenny, who was to become a famous artist and all Sweden’s ‘Mrs. Claus.’

Jenny was a happy child in Kalmar where she loved to play with her brothers and playmates in her grandparents’ lovely, big garden. When she was eight the Nyström family moved to Gothenburg, where Jenny’s father had gotten a better paying job. At first Jenny had a hard time as she missed her playmates and was longing for her grandparents. But having started school she found new friends and also discovered the joy of drawing and painting.

Some years later she was admitted to the Art School in Gothenburg (later known as Valand). As she was both hardworking and talented, the teachers considered her to be one of the very best students of the school. Only 19 she was admitted to the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts in Stockholm where she studied for eight years. Almost every day she worked a lot after school to get money for her room and board, and material for her artwork. She made drawings for papers and magazines as well as portraits.

Page 24

She worked tirelessly, taking all the chances she could get to illustrate children’s, magazines and books to earn money. She started to get famous and her works of art attracted much attention.

She was awarded many prizes, and, as the first woman ever, she won the Royal Medal. In 1881 she received a scholarship which made it possible for her to go to Paris, the place to be if you really wanted to become an artist.

In Paris JN worked very hard from early morning to late evening. After a day at the Academy, she went on working at home in her studio with commissioned work, which was necessary to finance her studies in Paris. Her dream was to be admitted to the Paris Salon, which was a very large exhibition that attracted thousands of visitors. To have their work exhibited at the Salon was to many artists the fulfilment of a dream. In 1884, JN was invited and exhibited some of her work. One of them was a life size self portrait in oil which today can be admired in Kalmar Museum, where there is a permanent exhibition about Jenny Nyström´s life.

In 1887 JN married Daniel Stoopendaal. He was studying medicine, but because of illness he was never able to finish his studies. So JN had to take the full responsibility of the support and finances of the family. In 1893 their son Curt was born. He had to pose for his mother for many of the pictures with happy, playing children that she produced. Curt graduated and started to study medicine. Being a talented artist too, he followed in his mother’s footsteps. He went to an art school in Stockholm and became an artist he was especially good at painting animals. He also became a popular postcard artist staying very close to his mother’s artistic style . Curt was a very good assistant to his mother, His signature, Curt Nyström, can be seen on many cards. Being an artist Jenny Nyström kept her girl’s name.

It was in Paris JN come in contact with postcards, introduced by an English company. Understanding that you could make big money on postcards as this being a brand new product, JN suggested to the Swedish publishing house Bonnier that they should start producing postcards. She sent greeting cards that she had made for the English company, but Bonnier were not interested.

A wholesale dealer however, Mr Axel Eliasson in southern Sweden, believed in the new idea, and they started working

One of Jenny Nyström’s famous ‘tomtar.’

together. Postcards soon were a great success. Since then JN has made about 5.000 holiday - and greeting cards. After WW1 the first cards for Mother’s Day came out, an influence from America. She has also made many cards with religious motives. Jenny Nyström became Sweden’s most productive postcard artist.

As said before JN was a most talented artist. She produced fantastic oil paintings, portraits of famous people and of ordinary people. Particularly popular was her many lovely portraits of children where her son and his playmates had been posing. She made pastels and watercolours. She illustrated hundreds of books for adults and children and lots of covers for Christmas wrapping. She made textile- and paper tablecloths, tapestries, jig saw puzzles and bookmarks, all with Christmas motives. But it is for her “tomtar” and Christmas cards she is best known. It was with her Christmas cards that she reached a large audience.

“Tomten” was not invented by Jenny Nyström. He has existed in popular folklore and tales during hundreds of years.

People believed “Tomten” was not a very nice creature, he was dwarf like, a pixie, and we were a bit afraid of him. If you didn’t treat him nice you could get in trouble. But if you were good to him, e.g. giving him porridge on Christmas Eve, he was very helpful, watching your house Continued on page 25 Vasa Star November-December 2009

Advent

Jenny Nyström Continued from page 24

Warming up for Christmas Source: The Swedish Institute

‘Tomtar’ and child on one of Jenny’s famous Christmas Greetings Cards.

and animals even warning you of fire and thieves. It was he good-natured, cheerful Father Christmas shining of kindness and generosity, a friend of both people and animals, that’s the image JN has created, influenced from a fairy tale by the Swedish writer Viktor Rydberg. He also published a famous poem called “Tomten” that is usually read in many local lodges at their last meeting of the year, in December.

Having lived a long life Jenny Nyström died at the age of 92. People are surprised that she was able to find the time to do so many different things. But by knowing a bit about her philosophy it might be easier to understand.

Her philosophy can be summed up in a few points well worth thinking of: • Be happy and always try to think of what’s beautiful and friendly. Evil thoughts will age you and give you wrinkles.

• Go to bed early and get up early.

• Don’t eat too much and above all don’t eat “hot” and heavy food.

• Be thankful!

• Laugh - even at yourself.

By the end of November it is time for friends or colleagues to gather at a restaurant one evening for the Christmas dinner table, a buffet combining traditional Christmas fare with the delights of the ordinary smörgåsbord. In recent years too, the Christmas dinner table has become a popular attraction on board the ferries to and from Finland, Germany and Denmark.

In people’s homes the approach of Christmas is signified, for example, by getting out the Advent candlestick, which is often a little box with four candle holders embedded in moss and lingonberry sprigs. The first candle is lit on the first Sunday in Advent and allowed to burn down by one quarter. Next Sunday it is time for the second candle, and so on, until the fourth Sunday when the first candle has burnt right down and the last one has been started. This is a peculiar Swedish custom, but it was inspired by the Advent trees of Germany and became widespread in the 1920s.

During Advent many windows are hung with an Advent star, the original version of which, made of red paper, was introduced in the 1930s. Today one often sees more sophisticated versions of straw, wood shavings or metal. This custom also originated in Germany, but in recent years it has begun to be overtaken by the stepped candlesticks which also shine from the windows of companies and institutions.

Germany also invented the Advent calendar, nowadays called the Christmas calendar and first introduced in Sweden in 1932. Later, with the production of tiein programmes, first on the radio and then on television, sales of Advent calendars broke all records.

The celebration of Advent then, is of fairly recent origin. It is only in our own time that church services on the first Sunday in Advent have joined the early morning service on Christmas Day in topping the year’s attendance figures.

Common to many aspects of modern Holidays in Sweden Traditions and Superstitions©

Advent celebrations is the part played by candles, and this is usually quoted to instance a 20th century “candle revival,” with “living light” providing a counterpoise to the cold lighting technology which, towards the end of the last century, superseded the old, mellower light sources.

SWEDISH GINGERSNAPS Pepparkakor Source: The Swedish Institute

350 g (12 oz.) butter 450 ml (2 cups) sugar 200 ml (1 cup) dark corn syrup 1-1/2 tablespoons ginger 1-1/2 tablespoons cardamom 1-1/2 tablespoons cinnamon 1 tablespoon cloves 300 ml (1-1/2 cups) whipping cream 1 tablespoon baking soda 900 g (9 cups) sifted all-purpose flour Cream the butter together with sugar, syrup and spices. Add the cream whipped to a soft foam. Mix the baking soda with half of the flour and add to the batter.

Gradually add the remaining flour. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth. Return the dough to the bowl, cover and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out a little of the dough at a time directly on a large baking sheet with nonstick finish. Roll the dough as thin as possible and cut with desired biscuit cutters into rounds, hearts, stars, pigs or other figures. Remove excess dough from the baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, or until beautifully brown. Set the baking sheet on a wire rack; remove the biscuits when cool.

If desired, decorate the biscuits with white icing. Beat together 400 ml (2 cups) powdered sugar, 1 egg white and 1 teaspoon white vinegar. Fill an icing tube, or paper cone with fine opening, with the icing and garnish the biscuits. Or decorate with blanched almonds before baking. Makes 300 to 400 gingersnaps.

Holidays in Sweden 1 copy PP $15.

2 copies PP $29

Siv Swan-Pierson

For more prices or to place an order, please email Siv at Holidaypub@verizon.net

Submitted by: Gun Lith, GLCD Vasa Star November-December 2009

Page 25

HAPPENINGS Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Brick

Vasa Ceremony to Honor Wallenberg

City of Meriden, Connecticut OFFICE OF THE MAYOR 142 East Main Street, City Hall • Meriden, CT 06450 TELEPHONE (203) 630-4125 • FAX (203) 639-7008 E-Mail: mrohde@ci.meriden.ct.us

WHEREAS, WHEREAS, WHEREAS,

WHEREAS, WHEREAS, WHEREAS, WHEREAS,

WHEREAS,

In January 1944, the United States War Refugee Board asked Sweden to send a representative to Hungary to organize rescue operations for the Jewish community; and Raoul Wallenberg, showing extraordinary courage, took this call and managed to saved the lives of some 100,000 men, women, and children; and Raoul Wallenberg risked his own life countless times during his work, rescuing Jews from trains bound for gas chambers, bringing food and blankets to those on death marches, creating Swedish Safe Houses, and challenging Nazi authorities; and Raoul Wallenberg was taken into Soviet “protective custody,” in violation of diplomatic immunity and international law, under Stalin’s directives on January 13, 1945; and Soviet officials originally denied having custody of Wallenberg, but subsequently stated that a prisoner named Wallenberg died in a Soviet prison on July 17, 1947; and The Soviet Union has never produced a death certificate or the remains of Raoul Wallenberg to prove that he died; and Raoul Wallenberg has become a symbol of the compassion and selfless action one human being can give to help another life.

Furthermore, his commitment to fighting for justice and understanding is worthy of recognition and emulation; and On October 5, 1981, President Ronald Reagan signed into law a proclamation making Raoul Wallenberg an honorary citizen of the United States.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael S. Rohde, Mayor of the City of Meriden, do hereby proclaim October 5, 2009, “Raoul Wallenberg Day,” in the City of Meriden.

DATED AND PRESENTED, this 4th day of October, 2009.

Left to right - Art Ogonoski Vasa Park Chair, Mayor Michael S. Rohde Meriden, CT, and Paul Ljunggren District Master.

We had a wonderful dedication of the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial brick in the Vasa Park Memorial Brick Walk.

Park Chairman Art Ogonoski, District Master Paul Ljunggren and Meriden Mayor Mike Rohde took part in the dedication ceremony. There were about 75 people in attendance.

There was a lady from Oxford who had Raoul Wallenberg's grandchildren in her class, and she had heard about the ceremony, so she and her husband wanted to come and be part of this event as well as a gentleman from Wallingford.

The Meriden Record-Journal ran a beautiful article a few days prior to the ceremony.

Submitted by: Bill Parsons

VIP Visitors to Tennessee We were pleased when our long time friends Lars and Britt Rosén contacted us about their plans to visit Tennessee.

They are members of Strömkarlen Lodge #653 in Trollhättan and both have been active and served as officers in District Lodge Norra Sverige #19.

There is no Vasa lodge closer than four hours from our home here in Tennessee so it is especially nice when members find their way to visit us.

It gives us opportunities to catch up on our Order.

We have a Swedish mat by our front door. It greets our visitors with “Välkommen!”

Submitted by: Richard and Lillemor Horngren Lars and Britt Rosén.

Page 26

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Autumnfest and Marknad at Vasa Park

Meatball Eating Contest. Various Vasa lodges had attractively decorated boots and provided very tasteful meatballs prepared from their own special traditional, family recipes. The winner of the Meatball Contest was Northern Light lodge under the direction of Haakan Lindell. At the end of the Meatball Contest, the president of the Vasa Park Association Frank Muscarella was crowned the Meatball King for 2009.

It was very nice to se so many participants enjoy all the events, meet old friends and make new friends.

Submitted by: Thomas Jahn Pictures by: Thomas Jahn

Trollebo Family Camp

Yolanda’s Swedish Souvenirs

On a beautiful and sunny day in Southern California, the Vasa Park Association of Southern California held its annual Autumn fest and Marknad.

There was a large crowd in attendance and the new look to the park was just magnificent and enthusiasm was found everywhere. The park was beautifully decorated with new very colorful signs.

The vendors skillfully presented their crafts, arts and food, and there was also various gift shops. One of the main attractions as always was the swimming pool and the water slide. Ample attractions were provided for the children.

There was a Bouncer room, a Zip line, Rock Climbing, Face Painting, Games, etc.

Kin Lindgren of Glenn T. Seaborg Lodge was in charge of selecting all the wonderful vendors. The event Marketing Committee consisted of Ken Larson, Ann Heinstedt, Haakan Lindell, Maidie Karling and Larry Klein.

An excellent breakfast was served by members of Oak Leaf and Northern Light lodges followed by the sale of hot dogs and meatballs by Evening Star and Thule lodges and the District representatives.

Bingo and various raffles were held throughout the day. As always, the Vasa Folk Dance Club of Los Angeles performed to the enjoyment of all with music provided by Alfon Bergstrom. Gail Halverson played lovely music on her “Nyckelharpa.”

The highlight of the day was the Vasa Star November-December 2009

outline on both front and back.

Director Edythe Anderson extends her appreciation to those who volunteered to make this a memorable weekend at Silver Lake in the high Sierra Nevada mountain range – Karin Johnson, Gail Nemy, Helen Mingram, Heather Norquist, Myrtle Widmark and Swede Englund.

And, of course, the wonderful group of campers who attended!

Submitted by: Baxter Swaffar

Helping Hands for Tony’s Hands A special appeal is being issued to ALL Swedes and Swedish descendents to help Tony Martin Soderstrom.

Tony was born in Avesta, Sweden, in 1966. After fourteen years as a ship master on the open seas circumventing the globe for the Swedish Merchant Marines, Tony found employment in the New England area as a charter boat captain.

He decided to remain in the states and settle down. He soon found his way to Texas and trained to become a crop spraying pilot flying helicopters.

Camp participants and staff

Trollebo Swedish Family Camp 2009 was kicked off on July 30. Introducing the evening’s activities was a group singa-long accompanied by Heather Norquist playing her ukulele – all songs in Swedish.

The next 2-1/2 days were busy with knitting, Swedish songs and dances with keyboard and ukulele accompaniment, language lessons, time at the campfire, hiking and fishing. The “head-wreaths class” craft project was supervised by Myrtle Widmark. Cultural programs included the film “Warship Vasa” for an evening program. In addition, Swedish costumes provided by Swede Englund were shown and modeled. The models were twin grandchildren of Gail Nemy, Stephen and Julia Nemy and Kaylene Cutro, granddaughter of Arlene White and Edythe Anderson.

A lot was offered in the short time available, and Trollebo provided something for everyone.

Camp shirts this year were royal blue with bright a yellow print. Adding to their unique design was the Swedish flag

Tony Martin Soderstrom

After several years spraying crops and as circumstances occur, Tony without the protection of self-employed Worker’s Compensation insurance was severely burned during a refueling stop.

See news articles and a complete detail journal of events at: http://www.swedesintexas.com/readingroom.

Continued on page 28 Page 27

Helping Hands for Tony’s Hands Continued from page 27

Tony is a strong willed person and works very hard at recovering the use of his arms and hands. But, this will take a long time. In the meantime he has no financial means to support himself. He needs our help to just keep a roof over his head and food on the table. His goal is to return to work, using his hands, as soon as he can.

Tony has no family in the United States. Through the use of the internet and phone calls he has been able to communicate his condition to his family.

Tony will not be able to return to Sweden for medical treatment. But, he is very pleased that he is getting the best care possible at the burn center in San Antonio. Since he did not have any Worker’s Compensation insurance, he has very limited financial resources to support his day to day living expenses.

In summary, his health and life insurance, student loan, property to park his camper on, car payments, and other living expenses, are approximately $2,000 per month. It is anticipated that Tony will not be able to work for a minimum of 12 months.

In order to take the financial burden off of Tony’s shoulders and allow him to focus on his recovery, we kindly ask for your support to provide financial help to a special “Swede in Texas.” Your gift of $10.00 to $20.00 per month for the next 12 months will go a long way in helping Tony. Your gift can be mailed monthly, quarterly, or at your convenience or even better, a onetime gift. Our financial goal is 12 months of support for Tony.

Make Checks Payable to: Tony Soderstrom Send to: Broadway Bank Att: Wimberley Branch P.O. Box 17001 San Antonio, TX 78217 We sincerely appreciate your help with this special need. Tony and his Team thank Broadway Bank of San Antonio for providing this collection and financial service.

“Tony’s Helping Hand” Team Marlene Bartlett, David Borg Rod Johnson, Irma Pearson, Billy Peel, Barbara Van Neil.

This appeal is supported by VASA Lodges: Carl Widen #743, Austin, Texas and Carl XVI Gustaf Lodge #716, Dallas, Texas.

Page 28

“Letters to Sweden” – Emigration Conference 2010 The Vasaorder of America, lodge Mellerud Nr 644 is once again inviting all who are interested in genealogy and Swedish American connections to a conference in Mellerud, Dalsland. After the conference 2008 they were asked from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, to arrange a new conference soon. Over 200 people attended the first one and they were very happy with the program. Now the Vasa members again work together with the Genealogical Society of Dalsland to arrange a conference August 13-15, 2010.

The program will be diverse and interesting with a Friday excursion by train and bus throughout Dalsland, followed by seminars and exhibition at Kulturbruket, Mellerud on Saturday.

Saturday ends with a banquet with Swedish smorgasbord. Sunday contains a service in the oldest church in Dalsland followed by church coffee and a visit to the local museum. There will also be some optional events to participate in the days before the conference starts, such as a tour in the footsteps of Carl Oscar

Borgh and a barbecue at the culture reserve Åsnebyn. We invite visitors to extend their visit for a few days and also enjoy the beautiful scenery and interesting attractions and events in Gothenburg, Dalsland and the rest of Western Sweden.

The sponsors hope that the program will attract many people who have Swedish American connections, are interested in genealogy or have Swedish roots. Many people in the inner parts of Bohuslän and in Dalsland are doing genealogy and the inventory of cemeteries and soldier’s homesteads is in progress. At the same time there is an ongoing inventory of Swedish-American cemeteries in areas where the emigration from Dalsland has been especially big.

The links between the countries are countless.

You can register for the conference already. More information is available at www.emigrationdalsland.com. Welcome to Dalsland 2010.

Submitted by: Eiwor Backelund, Logen Mellerud Nr 644.

“Letters to Sweden” – Emigration Conference 2010 Vasaorden av Amerika, logen Mellerud Nr 644 inbjuder åter alla som är intresserade av släktforskning och amerikanska band till en konferens i Mellerud, Dalsland. Efter konferensen 2008 blev de ombedda, från båda sidor av Atlanten, att snart arrangera en ny konferens. Över 200 människor deltog i den första och var mycket nöjda med programmet. Nu arbetar Vasamedlemmar åter tillsammans med Släktforskare på Dahl för att arrangera en konferens 13-15 augusti 2010.

Programmet kommer att bli omväxlande och intressant med en fredagsutflykt med tåg och buss genom Dalsland, följt av seminarier och utställning på Kulturbruket i Mellerud under lördagen.

Lördagen avslutas med en bankett med svenskt smörgåsbord. Söndagen innehåller en gudstjänst i Dalslands äldsta kyrka följt av kyrkkaffe och ett besök i det lokala muséet. Det kommer även att finnas arrangemang som tillval under dagarna före konferensen, så som en tur i Carl Oscar Borghs fotspår och en gril-

lkväll i kulturreservatet Åsnebyn. Vi inbjuder besökare att stanna ett par dagar längre för att kunna njuta av det vackra landskapet och intressanta attraktioner samt evenemang i Göteborg, Dalsland och resten av Västsverige.

Arrangörerna hoppas att programmet ska locka många människor som har svenskamerikanska kontakter, är intresserade av släktforskning eller har svenska rötter. Många människor i inre Bohuslän och Dalsland håller på med släktforskning och kartläggning av kyrkogårdar och soldattorp. Samtidigt pågår en kartläggning av svenskamerikanska kyrkogårdar i områden där emigrationen från Dalsland varit särskilt stor. Länkarna mellan de båda länderna är otaliga.

Det går att anmäla sig till konferensen redan nu. Mer information finns på hemsidan www.emigrationdalsland.com.

Välkommen till Dalsland 2010.

Insänt av: Eiwor Backelund, Logen Mellerud Nr 644 Vasa Star November-December 2009

In Memoriam

Till minne av hädangångna ordenssyskon genom vilkas bortgång syskonkretsen gjort en kännbar förlust In memory of our departed members who will be sorely missed ARIZONA THOMAS B. LEVIG, member of Vasa Solstad Lodge #701 since 2001, passed away in Sun City, AZ, on September 3, 2009. He was born in Clarkfield, MN, on July 31, 1932. After serving in the US Army, Tom was dedicated to continuing his education, attaining his Master’s Degree, majoring in Counseling and Guidance. After receiving his doctorate, he relocated to Cambridge, MN, to establish a community college there. He was also instrumental in many other leadership roles. A Minnesota Community College administrator, he retired in 1993. However, he continued serving not only educational affiliates but was also active in civic responsibilities throughout the years. He was most joyous when he could be the guiding hand to opening educational opportunities for people. Residing in Arizona, he was serving as Financial Secretary at Solstad Lodge and as a District Officer for District Lodge Arizona #21. He was a Vice President of Club Scandinavia. He was also with the Sheriff’s Posse, volunteered at the Del Webb Hospital, and served in numerous other community activities.

Summers were spent at Breezy Point, MN. He is survived by his wife Anne, daughter Debra Grabau (Scott), and son Michael, and grand and greatgrandchildren. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Merle and David.

CALIFORNIA KEITH CARLSON, member of Linnea Lodge #504 and local artist, passed away September 1, 2009, at age 82 in Santa Rosa, CA. Born in Kansas, he moved to California following service in WWII and the Korean War. He is survived by long-time companion Marilyn Halvorsen, a sister, son-in-law, 2 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild, nieces and nephews.

LILLIAN M. JOHNSON, of San Clemente, CA, passed away August 17, 2009, at the age of 89 years. She was born in Boston, MA, on March 16, 1920 and joined Mayflower Lodge #445 on January 25, 1940.

ALF JOHANNES RYDBERG passed away at home on August 1, 2009, in West Hills, CA, at the age of 96. He was born on May 1, 1913, in Nykroppa, Sweden. He was an engineer for the Saab aircraft division. After coming to Los Angeles he married in 1949. He took the test and became a proud U.S. citizen. Alf was a building contractor doing room additions and kitchen remodels until he retired at age 65. He took up golf and played twice a week until well over 90 years old. He enjoyed singing in the Vasa choir. He was a 40-year member of Golden Valley Lodge #616. Alf is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dagmar, 3 daughters, Mona, Nina and Tina, and 5 grandchildren, Kristina, Jennifer, Deidra De Hart and Melissa and Brian Steffen.

Vasa Star November-December 2009

ARNE JEAN SIDÉN of Banning, CA, was born in Stockholm, Sweden, September 23, 1921. He passed away August 11, 2009, at age 87. Arne served in the Swedish Navy during WWII before immigrating with his young family to the United States in 1953. He is survived by Alva, his wife of 63 years, daughters Monica Sidén and Linda Nessen, son-in-law Steve Nessen and 1 granddaughter. Arne and Alva joined Thule Lodge #467 in 1982. He is fondly remembered and will be greatly missed.

CONNECTICUT THOMAS J. CARLSON, 83, of Farmington, CT, beloved husband of Mary Lou (Post) Carlson, died peacefully September 15, 2009, at home surrounded by family and friends. Born in Hartford, August 10, 1926, son of the late C. Robert and Ellen (Lind) Carlson. Prior to retiring, he was a Supervisor at SNET Co. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force and was stationed in Germany after WWII. Thomas was a member of many local organizations including the Scandinavian Cultural Society and was PGLD and PDM of District Lodge Connecticut #1, Vasa Order of America and an active member of Norden Lodge #1. Besides his wife, he is survived by 2 children and their spouses, David A. and Louise A. Carlson of Columbia, MD, and Lisa C. and Leonard Hacking of Oreland, PA; and 5 grandchildren.

CARL B. ERICSON, 89, of Forestville, CT, died October 16, 2009, in Bristol. He was the husband of the late Daisy G. (Gustafson) Ericson. Born in Hartford, a son of the late Bernard C. and Nellie (Gustafson) Ericson, Carl served in Europe with the U.S. Army, 6th Armor Division during WWII. He worked as an accounting manager with Aetna Fire Insurance Co. and retired in 1982. He was an active member of the Vasa Order of America, having served as Chairman of Norden Lodge #1, Past District Master (’52-’53), Past Grand Lodge Deputy and Vasa Park Chairman. Carl had a passion for music his entire life. He played bass guitar and was a band leader with orchestras throughout the Bristol/West Hartford area and regularly entertained at Vasa Park. He was very active with St. Paul Lutheran Church, a 32 Degree Mason with WyllysSt. John Lodge #4, and active with several other organizations throughout the Bristol area. He leaves his son and daughter-in-law, Carl B. “Bernie” and Gail Ericson, and granddaughter Emily.

AXEL EDWARD OHRN passed away July 6, 2009. He was born in Ramnäs, Sweden, July 20, 1911. Axel joined Three Crown Lodge #38, Stamford, CT, June 23, 1937. He was predeceased by his wife Linnea. Axel is survived by a brother, Arne G. Ohrn, a daughter Barbara, son Frederic and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

OHIO EVY KRIEGER, 84, of Peoria, AZ, passed away June 11, 2009. She was born April 11, 1925, in Halmstad, Sweden, and was initiated into Harmony Lodge #465 on May 14, 1966. She is survived by a son Gregory of Boardman, a daughter Cheryl of Phoenix, and a stepson, William of Michigan. She also leaves 4 grandsons and 6 nieces and nephews.

ANNA MARIE MARTINDALE, 94, of Tucson, AZ, formerly of New Middletown, passed away August 20, 2009. She was born on April 23, 1915, in Youngstown, OH, and was initiated into Harmony Lodge #465 on May 18, 1963. Her husband, Howard, preceded her in death. She leaves her son Tom, a granddaughter, Holly, and a grandson,

Tom. She also leaves a sister, two brothers and an uncle.

MARJORIE NELSON passed away March 16, 2009, at the age of 87. She was born August 29, 1921, in Youngstown, OH, and was initiated into Harmony Lodge #465 on March 15, 1984. She is survived by a niece, Barbara Bestic, a nephew, Dennis Nelson and 3 great-nephews.

WASHINGTON MARGARET “MAGGIE” ANN BERTHIAUME passed away September 13, 2009, in Seattle, WA. She was born Maj Britt Ferngen, August 19, 1924, in Stockholm, Sweden. She joined Frihet Lodge #401 in 1999. She was always a helpful and willing volunteer. Maggie was Frihet’s chaplain and will be greatly missed. She is preceded in death by husband Don Berthiaume in 2003.

Maggie is survived by her daughters Lynn Mathews and Mary Emerson.

GUNNAR T. EDLING passed away September 17, 2009, in Issaquah, WA. He was born March 19, 1908, in Sweden. He joined Frihet Lodge #401 in 1979. Gunnar is preceded in death by his wife Thaura (Sunholm) Edling. He is survived by 4 children.

ELSIE MARIE (SOLEM) EDSTROM, of Federal Way, WA, passed away August 2, 2009.

She was born May 22, 1918, in Duluth, MN. Elsie joined Frihet Lodge #401 in 1979. She is survived by daughter Dorothy Hartley, of Washington, and son Robert Edstrom, of California. She was preceded in death by husband T. Bernard “Bernie” Edstrom.

CANADA FRANK AHLSSON, age 84, born February 7, 1925, in Linköping, Sweden, passed away August 8, 2009, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. He leaves to cherish his memory Irma and family, Wilhelm and Doris, Eva and Fredrik, and Ingrid and family.

He began working in his father’s hardware store, continuing on to Bolinder-Munktell, part of the Volvo Group. A successful salesman he was sent to Cologne in 1961, Vienna in 1964 and finally to Winnipeg in 1968, where he retired in 1986. In 1991 he lost his wife Marianne, later sharing many years with Irma Bernauer.

BLANCHE LOFGREN, born in Macklin Saskatchawan, Canada, moved to Hoquiam and was a long-time resident, passed away November 25, 2008, at the age of 92. Blanche first joined Vasa 73 years ago. She is survived by 2 daughters, a son, brother, sister-in-law, 8 grandchildren and 9 greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband.

MEMORIAL NOTICES should be mailed with check or money order to: Marie Carlson, 9560 Curberry Drive, Mentor, OH 44060. The fee is $8.00 for 1 column inch. Longer obituaries will be charged a flat rate of $25.00. All notices MUST be typed and WRITTEN in a format similar to those in this column.

NO newspaper clippings.

Page 29

Subscribe and Win an Icelandair Trip to Stockholm with a stay at the Grand Hôtel

Swedish Press celebrates its 80th Anniversary this year with a very special offer. Every one-year Swedish Press or two-year Scandinavian subscription (coupon below), entitles you to one entry in our draw for an Icelandair return trip for two to Stockholm from Boston, New York - JFK, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Orlando Sanford, Seattle, Halifax or Toronto - with a long luxurious weekend at the centrally located five star Grand Hôtel with sumptous breakfasts included. Your trip of a lifetime also includes hotel for two nights in Reykjavik to explore Iceland’s exciting capital (September - April season)*. Enter your subscriptions for the electronic or paper version of the magazines by January 15, 2010. Your chances of winning multiply with every additional entry! And if you give two gift subscriptions this Christmas, you will get an extra gift - the Carl Larsson Birthday Calendar (value $14) with the most popular of his paintings, a biography and a “perpetual” calendar. * Some restrictions apply.

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Swedish Christmas at its best

beautifully recorded on more than 300 old Christmas cards.

This Swedish Christmas best-seller is now available in English for the first time for $25 (including Shipping & Handling).

You will cherish God Jul - A Swedish Christmas year after year. The best Christmas gift you can give. Or receive.

Hardcover binding with dust jacket. The actual size of the book is 9-1/2” x 9 “ (or 24 x 23 cm). 96 Full color pages. First published by Bonniers in Sweden.

Page 30

Vasa Star November-December 2009

Barnklubben Elsa Rix #1 VOA Children’s Club Presents Lucia & Folk Dance Double CD, Lucia Songbook and Folk Dance Instruction Book Listen to the sweetness of the children’s voices as you prepare for the coming Christmas season.

Close your eyes and you’ll imagine Lucia floating into the room surrounded by her maidens, star boys, bakers and tomtes.

During and after Christmas you’ll be tapping your feet to the lively accordion and fiddle music on the folk dance CD as you imagine dancers in Swedish folk costumes gliding across the dance floor, or dancing around the maypole or Christmas tree.

You can use these CDs to put on your own folk dance exhibitions and Lucia pageants since they also include instrumental only tracks. Our Lucia songbook includes English and Swedish versions of the songs and narrations.

Our Folk Dance Instruction Book has detailed instructions for each of the dances on our CD as well as instruction and illustration pages to help you master each step, hold and position for the dances.

Get your copy of this double CD, Lucia instruction booklet and Folk Dance Instruction Book for only $30 (which includes shipping and handling). If you already have the CDs and Lucia Booklet and wish to purchase the Folk Dance Instruction Book only, the price is $12 (which includes shipping and handling). Make checks payable to “Barnklubben Elsa Rix #1” and include your mailing address with a contact phone number or email address to: Barnklubben Elsa Rix #1 c/o Elaine Lindquist McGrath 252 Wellington Road S, Garden City, NY 11530 Information: call Elaine at (516) 565-2091 or visit www.skandjam.com/PAGES/elsarix.htm

Selling Swedish Calendars Bilingual 13 month calendar 12 x 9 inches (open) Back

Front

$10.00 each 6 or more – $8.00 each

Nordiskal Christmas Note Cards 4 x 5 1/2 inches Blank inside with white envelope.

Merry Christmas in 7 languages. $2.50 each

Eric Mickelsen PO Box 16994 Portland, OR 97292 503-939-2144 Nordiskal@aol.com Add $5.00 shipping per address

by USPS.

Windmills on Öland Note Card Check with Your Local 4 x 5 1/2 inches Scandinavian Store Blank inside with (prices may differ) white envelope.

Also have Calendars, Mouse Pads, $2.50 each Magnets and Note Cards for Finland, Norway, Denmark.

Checks Only!

Magnet 2 x 3 inches Swedish Flag $3.00 each

Mouse Pad 7 3/4 x 7 inches Plastic Covered Swedish Flag $6.00 each

Give the gift of Swedish America with a subscription to the Sweden & America magazine!

Sweden & America is a joint quarterly publication of The Swedish American Center (formerly named Emigrantregistret/Kinship Center) in Karlstad, Sweden, and the Swedish Council of America.

It is our ambition to reflect persons, places and events in the common history, and to preserve and strengthen the ties between Sweden and America.

THE SWEDISH CLOCK MAKER Traditional Swedish design handcrafted in Oregon.

Custom painted to order in any color or folk art style.

For details see website: swedishclockmaker.com

Regular price for one year (4 issues) $16.00 VASA members receive 50% discount Send name(s) & address(es) and lodge name & number with payment to: Swedish Council of America 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55407

Phone 541-461-0329 Email: suwalschul@aol.com

St. Lucia Festival December 12, 2009

www.swedenamerica.se

www.swedishcouncil.org

Museum of Seminole County History Sanford, Florida www.sanfordstlucia.com

Vänner.

Make the most of your time – fly smoothly and comfortably to your friends and family. By the way, Vänner means friends in Swedish. Check out all our timetables and destinations at flysas.com/us. Welcome onboard!

m/us for great Go to flysas.co inavia and Finland. deals to Scand

Copenhagen Stockholm Oslo Helsinki GothenburgStavanger* flysas.com/us

*

Check out all our destinations and timetables at www.fl ysas.com