VALTHORNET DISTRICT LODGE LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8
April 2013
GLAD PÅSK! HAPPY EASTER! District Master’s Message: Låt oss bygga en spännande Vasa Orden tillsammans. To all District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8 Members, We are looking forward to the 105th District Convention, to be held in Rockford, Illinois, May 3 - 5, 2013. Brahe Lodge # 245 and Linde Lodge # 492 will co – host this year. The Convention hotel, the Holiday Inn on State Street, will be an excellent facility for our hospitality, meeting, dining, and cultural rooms. Brahe # 245 is hosting the Sunday lunch at their spacious Vasa Park. This is a special year for Brahe Lodge # 245 and also for Svea Lodge # 253 of Indianapolis, Indiana. Brahe achieved its 100th anniversary earlier this year in January, and Svea will reach its 100th anniversary this May, 2013. The other District lodges that have met this milestone are Siljan – Mora - Tuna # 134, Thor # 147, Linné # 153, Kronan # 179, and Bessemer # 203. Brahe Lodge # 245 will observe their birthday during the Convention. Svea Lodge # 253 will celebrate on June 2, 2013. Look for further news about these events later in this issue. Also, CONGRATULATIONS to Bishop Hill # 683 who attained their 45th Anniversary on March 25, 2013. To the right is a picture of a treasure that is archived in the Vasa Archives in Bishop Hill, Illinois. It is a delegate’s ribbon from a previous District Convention held in Rockford, Illinois, when the District name was District Lodge Illinois No. 8. It is a reminder also that Swedish was used at that time. The Convention Saturday lunch break will feature two presentations: a preview of the new District web site, TheVasaOrder.com, and a preview of the Sami exhibit to be on display in the Vasa Archives, Bishop Hill, throughout June, 2013. Attendees of the Convention, please help spread the word about the web site and the exhibit to your local lodges. The District Executive Board will recommend that money be budgeted for the acquisition of Nordic materials, especially DVDs. We hope that local lodges will borrow these and show them in places such as libraries so that the public can be invited and learn about the lodges and the Vasa Order Of America. If you drive to the Convention, make sure you have a District decal on your car. Other hotel visitors will certainly spot some of the decals, and maybe we will recruit some new members. And, it might be worth your while to have a decal noticed. I sanning och enighet; enighet ger styrka, Ed Hultgren District Master District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8
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DISTRICT LODGE LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8 EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS and OFFICERS 2012 - 2013 District Master: Edward L. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227 (317) 733 – 3493 Email: nodjehult@gmail.com
Executive Board Member: Steve Westlund 55 West Joliet Street Schererville, Indiana 46375 (219) 322 – 5190; Cell: (219) 682 - 6932 Email: plncrazy@sbcglobal.net
Inner Guard: Gene M. Kiesel 1426 Kennebec Road Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439 (810) 695 – 2563 Email: dgkiesel1@att.net
Vice District Master: Michael Pearson, Sr. 7309 New Hampshire Place Hammond, Indiana 46323 – 2937 (219) 588 – 4752 Email: mikepearson@nordikfolk.com
Supervisor Of Children’s / Youth Clubs: Lynda Smith 1502 Azalea Drive Munster, Indiana 46321 – 3812 (219) 923 – 8777 Email: lamsmith@hotmail.com
Outer Guard: Timothy Ogrentz 12849 South Manistee Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60633 (773) 646 - 0279 Email: timothy.ogrentz@gmail.com
District Secretary: Nancy Hult 14951 South Kenton Avenue Midlothian, Illinois 60445 (708) 687 – 8943 Email: stenanhult@ameritech.net Email: fruhult93@hotmail.com
District Cultural Coordinator (temporary): Linda S. Tylk 1960 West Richton Road Steger, Illinois 60475 - 1394 (708) 747 – 4717 Cell: (708) 805 - 3040 Email: Lstitcher1@sbcglobal.net
Assistant District Secretary: Joella D. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227 (317) 733 – 3493 Email: nodjehult@gmail.com
Past District Master: Tom Cleveland 1117 Foxpointe Drive Sycamore, Illinois 60178 (815) 895 – 2102 Cell: (815) 739 - 3100 Email: tcleveland@cityofdekalb.com
District Treasurer: Brent Erickson 4876 North Sheffield Avenue Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin 53217 - 5962 Home: (414) 962 - 8920 Email: berickson73@gmail.com
District Chaplain: Inez Törnblom 1301 Providence Circle Elgin, Illinois 60120 - 5076 (847) 361 - 9890 Email: ineztornblom@yahoo.com
Hospital Fund Secretary: Linda S. Tylk 1960 West Richton Road Steger, Illinois 60475 - 1394 (708) 747 – 4717 Cell: (708) 805 - 3040 Email: Lstitcher1@sbcglobal.net Executive Board Member: Susan Cleveland 1117 Foxpointe Drive Sycamore, Illinois 60178 (815) 895 – 2102; Cell: (815) 546 - 1097 Email: mrandmrsc92@comcast.net
Master of Ceremonies: Gunnard Swanson 908 Harding Street Oregon, Wisconsin 53575 - 2856 (608) 835 - 5152 Email: gunnardswanson@gmail.com
Auditor: Paula Stopka – 3 years 115 Crissey Avenue Geneva, Illinois 60134 (630) 208 - 9850 Email: plundberg1066@aol.com Auditor: Eric Swanson – 2 years 8433 North McKinley Road Flushing, Michigan 48433 (810) 639 – 6705 Email: ceswan@centurytel.net Auditor: Herb Smith – 1 year 1502 Azalea Drive Munster, Indiana 46321 – 3812 (219) 923 – 8777 Email: hwsmith3@hotmail.com VALTHORNET Editor: * Joella D. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227 (317) 733 – 3493 Email: nodjehult@gmail.com Grand Lodge Deputy: Reinhold “Jake” Gruel 13716 West Lilac Lane New Berlin, Wisconsin 53151 Home: (262) 782 – 4522; (262) 894 - 5301 Email: jgruel@att.net
District Historian: Iva Lynn * 6035 Riva Ridge Drive Indianapolis, Indiana 46237 - 5001 * Appointed by the District Master (317) 714 - 9986 Email: ivalynn30@aol.com; lraylynn@aol.com ***************************************************************************************************************************************
VALTHORNET is the official publication of the District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8, Vasa Order of America, and is published in Indianapolis, Indiana. The VALTHORNET is published quarterly in the months of January, April, July, and October. DEADLINES: All news items, photographs, and articles should reach the Editor Joella Hultgren (see above for contact information) by the 15th day of the month before the month of publication, i.e. 15 March, 15 June, 15 September, and 15 December. ADDRESS CHANGES should be sent to: Joan Graham, Grand Secretary, 5838 San Jose Avenue, Richmond, California 94804; Email: circulationvasastar@gmail.com or vasajlg@aol.com.
UPDATE YOUR MAILING LIST! Local lodges should update their mailing list regularly. Membership lists change frequently because of initiations, moves, and deaths, and there may be errors from previous lists. Misdirected mail results in added expense for the Grand Lodge, the District Lodge, and your Local Lodge. You may request a current circulation list of members from your lodge who receive the VALTHORNET and the VASA STAR by contacting Joan Graham, Grand Secretary, 5838 San Jose Avenue, Richmond, California 94804; e-mail: circulationvasastar@gmail.com or vasajlg@aol.com. Grand Secretary Joan Graham will update your mailing list with your help. Please keep the list current and correct.
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Advertisements in the quarterly Valthornet are being accepted. The fees for each issue are: $ 35.00 for a 1/6 page ad (1/3 of one full column), $ 50.00 for a 1/4 page ad (1/2 of one full column), and $ 200.00 for a full page ad. If you would like to purchase an advertisement, send a check written to "District Lodge Lake Michigan # 8", and mail it to: Joella Hultgren, Valthornet Editor, 13650 Amblewind Place, Carmel, Indiana 46074 - 8227. DEADLINES for Valthornet ads are: March 1 for the April issue, June 1 for the July issue, September 1 for the October issue, and December 1 for the January issue.
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KAPLANENS HÖRNA
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
SVERIGES DAG HAMMARSKJÖLD: GENERALSEKRETERARE i FN, DIPLOMAT OCH FILOSOF
SWEDEN’S DAG HAMMARSKJÖLD: SECRETARY-GENERAL of UN, DIPLOMAT AND PHILOSOPHER
"Dag Hammarskjöld trädde oväntat ut på världsscenen, när han blev generalsekreterare av Förenta Nationerna i april 1953. För allmänheten och pressen var han en okänd svensk. Men snart blev han nästan legendarisk. Hans lika plötsliga, tragiska död åtta år senare förstärkte denna bild. Den världsvida schocken, orsakad av hans död, visade hur han hade, under sin tid vid FN., skurit ut en plats i världspolitiken, som inte har uppnåtts av någon generalsekreterare eller någon annan svensk." Så börjar den korta biografi, som utgavs av Svenska Institutet i deras serie "Berömda Svenskar", som finns på både svenska och engelska vid: http://www.si.se/. Jag körde in till Chicago en kall februarimorgon för att se utställningen "Dag Hammarskjöld, 100 år efter hans födelse." (Han föddes egentligen 1905, men det tog några år för utställningen att nå Chicago.) Hammarskjöld föddes i Jönköping, Sverige, i en familj, där fadern var statsminister och hade andra höga poster inom svenska regeringen. Dags utbildning var inom ekonomi och juridik. Han arbetade i Finansdepartementet, blev chef för Svenska Riksbanken, minister i Utrikesdepartementet och medlem i Svenska Akademien, som ger ut Nobelpriset i litteratur. Han hade aldrig planerat en karriär inom politiken för sig själv, men blev allmänt respekterad för sin karaktär och sinne för rättvisa. Han vann folks tillit. Hammarskjöld var också kultiverad och artistisk; se i synnerhet hans bok VÄGMÄRKEN, som kom ut efter hans död, en livslång dagbok med personliga reflektioner om en människas behov att vara sig själv trogen. FN var bara åtta år gammalt 1953. Generalsekreteraren var chefsadministratör för att se efter internationell fred och säkerhet. Kalla Kriget började. Fredsförhandlingar pågick i Korea-Kriget. Hammarskjöld behövde skydda sin organisation mot USAs Senator Joe McCarthys påträngande undersökningar. Kina höll fångna femton amerikanska piloter från Korea-Kriget. Frankrike, StorBrittanien och Israel försökte ta full kontroll av Suez-kanalen, fastän den är på egyptiskt territorium. Soviet invaderade Ungern. Många internationella kriser uppstod. Hammarskjöld var framgångsrik i många; med idoga ansträngningar sökte han försvara rätten av små länder anfallna av mäktigare. Hans sista och svåraste kris var när 1960 det nyligen självständiga Kongo vände sig till Hammarskjöld och bad om FNs hjälp. Han arbetade hårt att medla och undvika inbördeskrig, och när äntligen fred och ordning var inom räckhåll, blev han själv ett offer för krisen. Han dog den 17:e september 1961, när hans plan kraschade vid landning i Ndola nära Taganyika-sjön i Kongo. Många undersökningar har gjorts utan definitivt bevis om vad som hände. Ingen överlevde. Hammarskjöld åstadkom tre mål vid FN: FN-soldater som håller fred, preventiv diplomati, ett självständigt sekretariat. Dag Hammarskjöld tilldelades Nobel Priset för Fred år 1961. Inez Törnblom, Distriktskaplan Viljan Lodge Nr. 349
"Dag Hammarskjöld stepped unexpectedly onto the world stage when he became Secretary - General of the United Nations in April 1953. To the general public and the press he was an unknown Swede. Soon, however, he would become almost legendary. His equally sudden tragic death eight years later reinforced this image. The global shock caused by his death was evidence of how, during his time at the UN, he had carved out a position in world politics subsequently achieved by no other Secretary - General and by no other Swede." Thus begins the short biography which was published by the Swedish Institute in their series "Famous Swedes", which is available in both Swedish and English at: http://www.si.se/. I drove in to Chicago on a cold February morning to see the exhibit "Dag Hammarskjöld, 100 years after his birth". (He was actually born in 1905, but it took a few years for the exhibit to reach Chicago.) Hammarskjöld was born in Jönköping, Sweden, in a family where the father was prime minister and had other high offices within the Swedish government. Dag´s education was in economy and law. He worked in the Ministry of Finance, became chairman of the Governors of the Bank of Sweden, then Under-Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and he was a member of the Swedish Academy which awards the Nobel Prize in Literature. He had never planned a career in politics for himself, but became widely respected for his character and a sense of justice. He won people´s trust. Hammarskjöld was also cultured and artistic; note especially his book MARKINGS, published posthumously, a lifelong journal with personal reflections on a human being´s need to be true to oneself. The UN was only eight years old in 1953. The Secretary - General was chief administrator to guard international peace and security. The Cold War began. Peace negotiations were ongoing in the Korean War. Hammarskjöld had to protect his organization from the invasive investigations by US Senator Joe McCarthy. China kept fifteen American pilots imprisoned from the Korean War. France, Great Britain and Israel attempted to take full control of the Suez Canal although it was Egyptian territory. The Soviet Union invaded Hungary. Many international crises arose. Hammarskjöld was successful in many; with assiduous efforts he sought to protect the rights of small nations attacked by more powerful ones. His last and most difficult crisis was, when in 1960, the newly independent Congo turned to Hammarskjöld and asked for help from the UN. He worked hard to mediate and avoid civil war, and when finally peace and order was within reach, he himself became a victim of the crisis. He died on the 17th of September 1961, when his plane crashed on landing in Ndola near Lake Tanganyika in the Congo. Many investigations have been made without definite proof of what happened. No one survived. He brought about three goals at the UN: UN Peacekeeping soldiers, preventive diplomacy and an independent secretariat. Dag Hammarskjöld was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1961. Inez Törnblom, District Chaplain Viljan No. 349
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2013 District Convention Preview Dear District Lodge Lake Michigan No 8 members, By now you have already received information about the Annual District Convention, which will be held from May 3rd through May 5th, 2013 at Holiday Inn in Rockford, Illinois. The Convention is hosted by Brahe Lodge No. 245 (Rockford, Illinois) and co - hosted by Linde Lodge No. 492 (Milwaukee, Wisconsin). Brahe Lodge will also celebrate its 100th Anniversary at this time. We hope you have the dates on your calendar. We don’t want you to miss a good time. We are encouraging you and your family to help us defray Convention costs by purchasing raffle tickets --you should have received two booklets, but in case you didn’t, call us. Anything will help. You can buy 1 ticket for $1.00, 6 tickets for $5.00, or both booklets for $10.00. The prizes are in cash, which will fit any winner. Please open your checkbook, make out the check per instructions and send the ticket information and check in the provided envelope. Tack så Mycket! This Convention will have many nice features in addition to, as always, meeting old and new VASA friends. The theme for the Cultural Program will be “Scandinavian Food”. Please consider helping your local lodge with their display on the topic. This topic will be further highlighted with the selling of a newly published Swedish Cookbook – Swedish Cuisine. Consider buying several (read “many”) of these books as they will be excellent gifts for your family members, neighbors, and friends. You may be done with “hard to buy for” people for Christmas in May already. The cost is $12.00 for one book, or when purchasing 2 or more, the cost is $10.00 / book. Talking about other great gifts, we will have a Silent Auction on many things from folk costumes (adult size and child size), wall hangings, afghans, and a wrought iron / crystal chandelier. Again these things will be wonderful in your home as well as very nice gifts. Raffles on smaller items will also take place, and we will have some other items for sale, i.e. pillows and ribbons. The Convention Program book always has advertising from businesses, lodges, and individuals. This year we would like to give our members the opportunity to buy a small business card size spot and do so in “Memory of” a loved one. If you have a business (craft or service) please consider a bigger ad. We are hoping that all lodges will support the Convention with an ad from them as well. Contact us for advertising. Lodge Secretaries have received Delegate info to pass on to their Delegates, and raffle tickets for their lodge. The activities start on Friday with golf at Swanhill Golf Club for $50.00 / person, check - in for the Convention (don’t forget your credentials), Culture room display, Hospitality room with snacks and drinks, Friday night Program “Swedish Provinces & Län”, and Napkin folding led by Ashley LeBlanc. Saturday starts with the New Delegate Breakfast (others are on their own), Convention until approximately 3:30 PM with a “Lunch and Learn” break, Choir practice for anyone interested, Banquet dinner at night at $45.00 for non – delegates / officers, and
Sunday starts with a Memorial Service honoring District members who died in 2012. The Convention wraps up about noon, and then a “Send - Away” lunch at VASA Park (not far from the hotel) at 1:00 PM (which is Brahe’s facility and meeting place for their lodge). For additional information, extra raffle tickets, pre ordering of cookbooks, etc. please contact Dave Tollin, Ashley LeBlanc, or Liza Ekstrand. We are looking forward to hosting this event, and are truly hoping you would consider coming, regardless if you are a Delegate or a Guest. Rockford, Illinois is also a great town to visit for culture and fun events. The District Convention Committee, David Tollin, Brahe No. 245, (815) 509-9934 phtdave@aol.com Ashley LeBlanc, Linde No. 492, (262) 894-5307 hockey2009@yahoo.com Liza Ekstrand, Linde No. 492, (262) 366-9152 lekstrand@wi.rr.com
CULTURE NEWS Convention Cultural Room The 2013 District 8 Convention will be in Rockford, Illinois, from May 3 – May 5, 2013. The co – hosts are Brahe # 245 and Linde # 492. At the Annual Convention this year, the theme for the Cultural Room is “Scandinavian Food”, and we are looking forward to sharing foods from Scandinavia. Everyone loves our traditional foods and the traditions that go along with them. And Modern Scandinavia has new cultural influences that are popular as well. Scandinavian Foods that will be featured include: Limpa, Toscakaka (Tosca Cake), Swedish Nut Cake, Hardtack, Fruit Soup, Stuffed Cabbage Roll, Buffets, Rotmos, Surströmming, Meatballs, Pepparkakor, Cardamom Almond Cake, Wild Food, Lutfisk, Leek Soup, and Prinsesstårta. The displays will be in the Cultural Room throughout the convention, and the tastings will be available on Saturday afternoon. Linda S. Tylk District Hospital Fund Secretary
2012 CONVENTION PHOTOGRAPH AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE During the District Lodge Lake Michigan # 8 Convention at Carol Stream, Illinois, in May 2012, Vice Grand Master Tore Kellgren took a photograph of the assembled convention participants --- officers, delegates, and honored guests. Copies of this full color photograph, 8 inches by 12 inches, are available for purchase for $10.00 per print. District Secretary Nancy Hult will take orders from anyone interested, and the profits will be given to the Scholarship Fund. Requests for the convention photograph and questions may be addressed to: District Secretary Nancy Hult, fruhult93@hotmail.com.
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NEWS FROM LOCAL LODGES SILJAN – MORA - TUNA # 134 Evergreen Park, Illinois 17 February 2013: The first meeting of the year was held at United By Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evergreen Park, Illinois. Officers were installed for 2013 by Past District Master and District Deputy Sheila Lundquist: Chairman, Lisa Cianci; Vice Chairman, Ted Emmett; Past Chairman, Sten Hult; Recording Secretary, Nancy Hult; Financial Secretary, Ted Emmett; Treasurer, Barbara Emmett; Chaplain, Audrey Hiryak; Master Of Ceremonies, Diane Rosengren; Outer Guard, Ed Mercier; Inner Guard, Mavis Carlberg; Historian, Sten Hult; Cultural Leader, Andrea Wilczynski; Membership Chairman, Howard Rosengren; Publicity Chairman, Rey Carlberg; Trustees – Diane Rosengren (3 years), Sten Hult (2 years), and Howard Rosengren (1 year); and Auditors – Andrea Wilczynski (3 years), Shirley Mercier (2 years), and Audrey Hiryak (1 year). A pot luck meal was enjoyed. 17 March 2013: A Saint Patrick’s Day party was the theme at United By Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evergreen Park, Illinois. Refreshments included a corned beef meal.
24 March 2013: A Saint Patrick’s Day celebration at the Svithiod Hall in Chicago, Illinois, included a Corned Beef Luncheon, meeting, and Bunco. Prizes were awarded. submitted by Kim Bojarski Historian / Reporter / Webmaster
BESSEMER # 203 Oak Lawn, Illinois 5 January 2013: Meetings are now held at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois. This month we enjoyed a “Tailgate Party”. 2 February 2013: Officers for 2013 were installed for the new term at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois. (left) Pat Sandra and Jim enjoy a fellowship meeting.
Our District Deputy Sandra Fletcher from Thor # 147 visited us for
KRONAN # 179 Chicago, Illinois 27 January 2013: Valentine's Day was the theme for this meeting at the Svithiod Hall in Chicago, Illinois. The hall was adorned with lots of hearts and plenty of candy treats. Lunch included sandwiches, potato salad, cole slaw, pickles, and olives, and desserts of brownies and cookies, and was enjoyed by members. Inclement weather caused a low attendance for this month’s meeting; however business was taken care of and a good time had by all. All officers for the 2013 year were installed: Chairman, John Nygard; Vice Chairman, Henry Sanderson; Past Chairman, Virginia Lindroos; Recording Secretary, Audrey Fields; Financial Secretary, Louise Nygard; Treasurer, Linda Bojarski; Chaplain, Judith Stuyvesant; Master Of Ceremonies, Kim Bojarski; Vice Master Of Ceremonies, Dan Szymanski; Inner Guard, Doris Sutor; Cultural Leader, Judith Stuyvesant; Historian / Reporter / Webmaster, Kim Bojarski; Program Activity Director, Louise Nygard; Trustees: John Nygard, Henry Sanderson, and Arnold Lindquist; and Auditors: Bernice Baake, Audrey Fields, and Gertrude Strand. The auditors were pleased to report an audit of the books was done the week prior and everything balanced. Louise Nygard reported that in collecting dues and planning for each month's meetings she is able to be in contact with most members of the lodge. She gave a brief report about those members not in attendance at this meeting, based on her calls to them. The day concluded with a few rounds of Valentine's Bingo. Prizes were awarded to the winners. 24 February 2013: This meeting at the Svithiod Hall in Chicago, Illinois, had a Mardi Gras theme. Members enjoyed a lunch of chicken, mashed potatoes, and cole slaw (catered from Brown's Chicken), with ice cream and Oreos for dessert. A new membership application was accepted from MaryJane Guth, and she was initiated. The Sick Committee reported on the several members who were ailing. John and Louise Nygard and Joan Asplund were elected to be this year’s delegates to the upcoming District # 8 convention in Rockford, Illinois, in May. The day concluded with a fun round of Penny Ante, with prizes for the winners.
Pelzman, Fletcher, Pelzman time of after our
the installation: Chairman, Jim Pelzman; Secretary, Christine Kilstrom; Financial Secretary, Barbara Olson; and Hospital Fund Secretary, Linda Tylk. (right) Christine Kilstrom, Susan Nilsson, and Barbara Olson.
Lunch was served afterwards. 2 March 2013: The meeting took place at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois. We had another session of Genealogy Classes with Herb Smith from Nordik Folk # 761. Members were asked to bring whatever information they have about their family, and what they have been able to research about their family tree. Lunch was served afterwards. contributor: Christine Kilstrom
BRAHE # 245 Rockford, Illinois 24 February 2013: We met at our Vasa Park Lodge in Rockford, Illinois. It was a cold but sunny winter day with our park grounds covered with snow. Since our January meeting was cancelled due to inclement winter weather, we installed the 2013 officers who were present at this meeting: Scott Johnson, Chairman; Gary Johnson, Vice - Chairman; Charlotte Tollin, Financial Secretary / Treasurer; David Tollin, Park Board Chairman; Betty Rottman, Cultural Leader; and Auditors: Vivian Anderson and Will Rottman. The new officers for 2013 were installed by Liza Ekstrand who is Chairman of Linde # 492, in New Berlin, Wisconsin. Liza Ekstrand was substituting for District Deputy Jake Gruel who is recuperating; she discussed with us our 2013 District 8 Convention,
6 this coming May 3, 4, and 5, in Rockford, Illinois. 2013 marks the 100th anniversary of our Brahe Lodge # 245.
accordion came to be one of the most important musical instruments in all of folk music, in Sweden, and in Doug's life. Douglas Krantz earned his B.A. from Indiana State University and Master of Music degree from Butler University. Doug has been playing piano since 1968. He recently celebrated his 19th anniversary as organist at Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, Indiana. (right) Douglas Krantz presented the program on Swedish accordion music.
(left to right) Gary Johnson, Vice-Chairman; Charlotte Tollin, Financial Secretary / Treasurer; David Tollin, Vasa Park Board Chairman; Betty Rottman, Cultural Leader; Will Rottman, Auditor; Vivian Anderson, Auditor; and Scott Johnson, Chairman.
Refreshments after the meeting were graciously provided by Tess Anderson. submitted by Dennis G. Eksten
SVEA # 253 Indianapolis, Indiana 6 January 2013: The first meeting of the year was held at the Latvian Community Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. The charter was draped for two members who died in December 2012: Howard Lindquist and Madelyn Sundquist.
(above) Douglas Krantz, Financial Secretary; Janet Jegen, Recording Secretary; Ulla Williams, Vice Chairman; Charlotte Swenson, Past Chairman; Carol Atherton – Clarkson, Incoming Chaplain; and Donna Bergstrom, Outgoing Chaplain.
The officers for 2013 are: Chairman, Jean Tygum; Vice Chairman, Ulla Williams; Past Chairman, John Bevelhimer; Recording Secretary, Janet Jegen; Assistant Recording Secretary, Kristina Grasso; Treasurer, Marvin Anderson; Financial Secretary, Douglas Krantz; Cultural Leader, Glenn Sweitzer; Assistant Cultural Leader, Carin Young; Chaplain, Carol Atherton – Clarkson; Master Of Ceremonies, Dennis Danielson; Historian, Jenne Swain; Inner Guard, Eva Berglund; Refreshment Coordinators, Ulla Williams and Jean Bang; Trustees: Charlotte Swenson (3 years), David Duff (2 years), and Jay Hook (1 year); and Auditors: Kenneth Allen (3 years), Scott Clarkson (2 years), and Patricia Hoffmann (1 year). Congratulations to all our officers! Past District Master / Past Chairman Swan Swanson, Jr. celebrated his 90th birthday this month. Grattis på födelsedagen! A program on “Accordion Music In Sweden” was presented by our talented Douglas Krantz, who joined our lodge on January 8, 2012. We are so lucky to have such an accomplished musician in our midst and we have thoroughly enjoyed the lively music he has provided at breaks and other times during our meetings the past year. Interwoven with accordion music and group singing, Doug Krantz told the story of how the
Douglas also accompanies ballet master classes for the Indianapolis City Ballet. He has accompanied company classes for Cirque du Soleil and the Hubbard Street Dance Company. In 2004 he composed Music for Ballet Class, a set of pieces and instructions to teach pianists to accompany dance classes. He also enjoys accompanying solo and ensemble contestants, and he accompanied the winners of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Side – By - Side concerto contest three years in a row. Douglas Krantz has taught instrumental and choral music in public and private schools and plays his accordion with INDYKLEZ, “Not Your Average Klezmer Band”. Klezmer, sometimes called “happy music”, is secular Jewish folk music and it is really wonderful. For a sample of IndyKlez’s music, see www.indyklez.com. Refreshments were provided by: Donna Bergstrom, Faye and John Bevelhimer, and Patricia Hoffmann; thank you also to Eva Berglund for the Gevalia coffee and the lingonberries. 22 January 2013: The Fourth Tuesday Luncheon Group met at Athens on 86th, a Greek restaurant in Indianapolis, Indiana that is a perennial favorite among ethnic restaurants. The owners have ties to Scandinavian heritage. Tusen Tack to coordinators Eva Berglund, and Faye and John Bevelhimer. 3 February 2013: The meeting was held at the Latvian Community Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. Past Chairman Charlotte Swenson installed new Chairman for 2013 Jean Tygum (who was unable to attend last month’s meeting). Three prospective members (Brenda Miller, Jeff Peterson, and David Young) were approved for membership and initiated by the team of: Chairman Jean Tygum, Past Chairman John Bevelhimer, Vice – Chairman Ulla Williams, Chaplain Carol Atherton – Clarkson, and Master Of Ceremonies Dennis Danielson.
(above) New members David Young and Brenda Miller are initiated by Chairman Jean Tygum.
Delegates to the May 2013 Convention were elected: Marvin Anderson (Treasurer), Jean Tygum (Chairman), Glenn Sweitzer
7 (Cultural Leader), and Dennis Danielson (Master Of Ceremonies). Alternates are: Janet Jegen (Recording Secretary) and Sue James. The program on “Swedish Glass – Kingdom Of Crystal / Glasriket” was presented by Earl Hurst, assisted by his wife Cindy Hurst. In addition to a colorful PowerPoint presentation and lively commentary, Earl and Cindy Hurst brought numerous examples of Swedish glass for all to see. Other members brought Swedish glass to show, shared stories and pictures of their visits to the Glass Kingdom, and told of experiences with Swedish glass. Refreshment hosts and hostesses were: David Duff, Barbara Griffith, and Jean Tygum. Thank you to Eva Berglund for providing the Gevalia coffee. 26 February 2013: The Fourth Tuesday Luncheon Group gathered at Dawson’s in Speedway, Indianapolis, Indiana. Tack Så Mycket to our coordinators Faye and John Bevelhimer. 3 March 2013: The program was “Return Trips To Sweden” presented by Jessica Young, Sara Young Hess, and Abram Hess, daughters and son – in – law, respectively, of members Carin and David Young. Jessica Young and Sara Young Hess recounted adventures from their summer 2012 trip to Sweden. Sara’s husband, Abram Hess, spoke about his first trip to Sweden: from fika to fika! From Stockholm to the peaks of Hemavan - Tärnaby (hometown of famous skier Anja Paerson), we got a glimpse of Sweden as it is today. Ann - Katrin Roth showed a family cookbook her family had produced, all in Swedish, all color pictures, and hard - bound. It included gorgeous photographs of her family and their food. Refreshment hostesses were: Sue James, Janet Jegen, and Carin Young. Everyone enjoyed the fika coordinated by Ulla Williams. 26 March 2013: The Fourth Tuesday Luncheon Group met at MacKenzie River Pizza Company, in Indianapolis, Indiana. This restaurant started out in the west, and ours in Indianapolis is the farthest east they have come. They have soup, salads, burgers, pasta, and sandwiches --- not just pizzas. Tack Så Mycket to our coordinators Faye and John Bevelhimer. submitted by Joella D. Hultgren Publicity Committee
VILJAN # 349 Batavia, Illinois December 2012: Thank you to all the members who helped to make the smörgåsbord a success. There was bountiful delicious food, singing, and lots of great camaraderie! We give a special “THANK YOU” to the committee members of Ruth Beck, Mary Jean Nystedt, Florence Olson, Barb Olson, Dee Radtke, and Paula Stopka for their extra hard work. 19 January 2013: The Annual Scandinavian Breakfast was held at Bethany Lutheran Church. Who could resist a hearty breakfast on a cold winter morning? Viljan friends caught up with news over coffee and a breakfast of Swedish pancakes, sausage, coffeecake, Scandinavian cheeses, and more. The breakfast was followed with a brief business meeting and Installation of Officers for 2013. This was a fun meeting to invite prospective members to attend and share in the good food and fellowship. Coordinating this meeting was Susan Cleveland. 2 March 2013: The Vasa Park Jubileum Dinner Dance, celebrating 60 years of success, was held at Des Plaines Elks Club, in Des
Plaines, Illinois. This was the 10th Annual Dinner Dance and Fund Raiser. Thank you to Jack Grandin for handling the reservations. contributed by Susan Cleveland
LINDE # 492 New Berlin, Wisconsin 19 January 2013: The auditors Rolf Ekstrand, Elaine Jackson, and Dan Schroeder, met under the guidance of Past Chairman / Vice Chairman / Trustee Brent Erickson, to review the books. Everything was in good order, and the reports were accepted. 17 February 2013: Christ The Victor Lutheran Church in New Berlin, Wisconsin, was the venue for a short business meeting, the selection of Delegates for the Annual District Convention in May, and the Installation Of Officers for 2013. The charter was draped for Ethel Manchester, who was actively involved in our lodge and Skansen Children’s Club. Delegates to the convention are: Elaine Johnson, Marianne Ekstrand, Les Touve, and Liza Ekstrand; Ashley LeBlanc is the alternate. (right) Chairman Liza Ekstrand; and Treasurer Marianne Ekstrand.
Our District Deputy, and Past District Master David Tollin and his wife Charlotte Tollin, from Brahe # 245, assisted in the installation. The officers for 2013 are: Chairman, Liza Ekstrand; Vice Chairman, Brent Erickson; Recording Secretary, Marge Gruel; Treasurer, Marianne Ekstrand; Past Chairman, Brent Erickson; Chaplain, Les Touve; and Newsletter Co – Editors, Marge Gruel and Liza Ekstrand. David and Charlotte Tollin also gave an update of the 2013 District convention in early May in Rockford, Illinois, that Brahe # 245 and Linde # 492 are co – hosting. Everyone is invited to the Convention Send – Off Luncheon on Sunday, May 5, 2013, to be held at Vasa Park, in Rockford, Illinois. A coffee social followed the business and ceremonies, with delicious goodies brought by the members. 3 March 2013: We welcomed Kajsa Burling, from Jubileum # 755 in Madison, Wisconsin, to this social event held at Luther Manor Retirement Community in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. The hostess was Marge Jothen, who lives at Luther Manor, and helped arrange for the meeting place. Kajsa Burling presented the program “Sweden Then, Sweden Now”. Members contributed treats to share with the coffee afterwards. contributors: Liza Ekstrand and Marge Gruel
BISHOP HILL # 683 Bishop Hill, Illinois 27 January 2013: The installation of our officers for 2013 took place at the Vasa National Archives in Bishop Hill, Illinois. The officers are: Chairman, Jeff Anderson; Past Chairman, Rollie Krause; Recording Secretary, Judy Anderson; Financial Secretary, Dianne Lindbom; Treasurer, Roger Anderson; Master Of Ceremonies, Russ Swanson; Assistant Master Of Ceremonies, Karl Johnson; Cultural Leader, Sue Schulz; Chaplin, Carol Krause; Auditors: Mary Bjorling (3 years), Cheryl Dowell (2 years), and Lynn Myhre (1 year); Trustees: Rollie Krause (3 years), Mary Ann Spiegel (2 years), and Randy Anderson (1 year); Historian, Joel Bjorling, and Guard, Warren Schulz. The appointed positions for
8 2013 are: Color And Banner Bearers, Harlan Nelson and Dale Spiegel; Assistant Pianist, Joel Bjorling; Cheer Chairman, Helen Anderson; Nominating Committee: Jeff Anderson (3 years), Sally Nelson (2 years), and Karl Johnson (1 year); VASA Archives Representative, Viktoria Almgren; VASA Star Reporter, Jeff Anderson; and Correspondent To Sweden, Viktoria Almgren. Thank you to the Nominating Committee for 2012: Jeff Anderson, Karl Johnson, and Sally Nelson. The Cultural Program was “Exchange Student”. The refreshment committee included: Carol and Rollie Krause (Chairmen); Mary Bjorling; and Mary Ann and Dale Spiegel. 24 February 2013: Election of Delegates to the May District Convention took place. The refreshment committee included: Sally and Harlan Nelson (Chairmen); Eva and Harold Harland; and Thelma and John Larson. 22 March 2013: The 45th Anniversary Party was held at the Colony School. This was a potluck dinner, and the program included musical entertainment. The refreshment committee included: Cathy and Karl Johnson (Chairmen); Jeff Anderson; Sue and Randy Anderson; and Marie and Michael Stravsbaugh. contributed by Jeff Anderson
VIKING # 730 Flint, Michigan 15 December 2012: The Saint Lucia dinner was held at the Elk’s Club in Flint, Michigan. The Saint Lucia procession marched through the ballroom with music playing in the background. The coordinators for the pageant were Marty Shaw (a former Saint Lucia) and Bill and Sheila Lundquist. Brianna Horne was this year’s Saint Lucia; she is the great – granddaughter of Ron and Dee Carlson. Several past Saint Lucia princesses joined the procession as well. The court consisted of “star boys” with cone shaped hats and the maidens dressed in white gowns with tinsel halos in their hair. Warm glögg with almonds and raisins, along with other beverages, were served as our guests enjoyed listening to live music, visiting, and shopping the various Swedish items that were available for sale. A traditional Swedish smörgåsbord was served and consisted of pickled beets, cucumber salad, smoked salmon, pickled herring, roast pork, Swedish meatballs, red potatoes, and red cabbage. Gene Kiesel sold tickets for the three door prizes. He also organized and sold tickets for the infant Dala rocking horse, made and donated by Ron Carlson and hand decorated with Scandinavian characters and graphics by Vickie Carpenter. This was a special project for the Viking # 730 Scholarship Fund and tickets were sent to all lodges in the U. S. A. and Canada. The winner of the rocking horse was Harold Johnson, from Viking # 730, and he graciously donated it to the Archives in Bishop Hill, Illinois. 13 January 2013: A short business meeting was held at Mario’s Restaurant. The coordinator was Dawn Kiesel. 19 January 2013: Dee and Ron Carlson hosted the annual planning meeting at their home. A potluck dinner was enjoyed. Input for upcoming events was welcomed and encouraged. 10 February 2013: The Valentine’s Party was held at Italia Gardens Restaurant. A short business meeting was followed by dinner. 10 March 2013: Dinner at Mario’s Restaurant was followed by a short business meeting. contributor Debra LaLonde
LINDGREN # 754 Green Bay, Wisconsin 6 November 2012: The meeting was held at the Brown County Commission On Aging building. Cultural Leader Nancy Suennen announced that the program will focus on Bishop Hill. Refreshments, juice, and coffee were provided by Dorothy Brolin. 4 December 2012: The meeting was held at the Brown County Senior Center, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Cultural Leader Nancy
Suennen gave a program about Christmas Lights in Sweden. Officers for 2013 were decided: Chairman, Ray Suennen; Vice Chairman, Dotty Juengst; Recording Secretary, Maryl Hitchcock; Financial Secretary / Membership Chairman, Fred Juengst; Treasurer, Ray Suennen; Cultural Leader, Nancy Suennen; Historian, Dotty Juengst; Posten Editor, James Sucha; Inner Guard, Diana Adzima; and Chaplain, Vivian Stewart. James Eklund Sucha created our Facebook page to get people to know who we are. You have to set up a Facebook account on the web using your email address and first and last names. Then, when finding us on the computer, look up “Vasa Lindgren” in the search for friends area, and we are there: www.facebook.com, “Vasa Lindgren”. Refreshments, coffee, and juice were provided by Chairman Dotty Juengst. 15 December 2012: The Sankta Lucia Fest and Christmas program was held at the home of Nancy and Ray Suennen in Howard, Wisconsin. Sharilyn Osell worked with Annika and her singing friends to present the Lucia Pageant. For the smörgåsbord, Nancy and Ray Suennen provided ham and buns, Vivian Stewart brought cake, Dotty Juengst provided Swedish potatoes, and other members brought dishes to share. A good time was had by all, especially with the food and drink. The girls in the pageant did a fine job. Thanks again to Nancy and Ray Suennen and all who helped to produce the Lucia Fest. 6 January 2013: Our New Year’s Luncheon was held at Village Grille, in Allouez, Wisconsin. This luncheon was at “no charge” to members and their guests. We hung out together for fun, fellowship, and food. Even though there was no Swedish food, there was a breakfast smörgåsbord served. Yum! Following the luncheon, a brief business meeting was held. The slate of Officers for 2013 was elected: Chairman, Ray Suennen; Vice Chairman, Dotty Juengst; Recording Secretary, Maryl Hitchcock; Financial Secretary / Membership Chairman, Fred Juengst; Treasurer, Ray Suennen; Cultural Leader, Nancy Suennen; Historian, Dotty Juengst; Chaplain, Vivian Stewart; Posten Editor, James Eklund Sucha; Inner Guard, Diana Adzima; Chaplain, Vivian Stewart; and Publicity, Dennis Miller and Beckett Nunnez. We welcomed new member John Jacques; three others have applied for membership. 5 February 2013: A Happy Valentine’s Day meeting was held at the Brown County Aging Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Visitors included Gunnard Swanson, Chairman, and Trudy and Lowell Nordling, all from Jubileum No. 755, in Madison, Wisconsin. New members Dennis Miller and Beckett Nunnez were introduced. District Deputy for our lodge Gunnard Swanson installed the officers for 2013, and spoke about the upcoming District convention in Rockford, Illinois; new guidelines of the Old Age And Benefit Fund; and the Scholarships available to eligible members who are college students. Cultural Leader Nancy Suennen shared information about a place in Sweden where one can build an igloo and sleep in it, and also where one can go dog sledding. 23 February 2013: Even though we are Swedes, we can still support our Danish cousins by attending their cultural event! The Danish Aebleskiver (pronounced “able – skeever”) Fest was held at Bethel Lutheran Church ELCA, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Aebleskiver are delicacies; they are like waffles or pancakes formed in the shape and size of a tennis ball. “Back in the good old days, when the Vikings were roaming up and down the coasts of Europe and the waters of the Atlantic, one band of these Vikings had been particularly hard hit in battle, so when they got back on their ship with their horn helmets and shields all dented and banged up, they decided to have one of their favorite dishes to help them regain their strength --- pancakes! In those days they did not have modern conveniences such as frying pans, so they greased their shields and poured the pancake batter on them over the fire, but guess what came out of the holes of the shields? Aebleskiver!!!”
9 5 March 2013: Our annual Swedish pea soup and pancake supper took place at the Brown County Aging Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This traditional meal of ärtsoppa is a favorite. Thanks to Dennis Miller, Beckett Nunnez, and Nancy Suennen for providing the pancake batter; Maria Szymanski for the yellow pea soup; and Maryl Hitchcock for the mustard, lingonberries, hard tack, and butter. contributors: Maryl Hitchcock and James Eklund Sucha
NORDIK FOLK # 761 Munster, Indiana 14 January 2013: Genealogy classes continued and leader Herbert Smith presented information about DNA at this session at Ridge United Methodist Church. 15 January 2013: Installments 19 and 20 of the Viking Lecture Series were held at the Munster Public Library in Munster, Indiana. More than 20 people braved the cold and snow to learn about the colonization and organization by Norwegian Vikings. Refreshments were enjoyed. 21 January 2013: Members met at Ridge United Methodist Church for the monthly meeting. 28 January 2013: The auditing team met to inspect the books. 5 February 2013: Installments 21 and 22 of the Viking Lecture Series were shown at the Munster Public Library in Munster, Indiana. There is always time for discussion afterwards. These lectures are open to the public. 11 February 2013: The Genealogy Group met with leader Herb Smith. 18 February 2013: The regular lodge meeting was held at Ridge United Methodist Church. We discussed new information from the Grand Lodge about the Old Age And Benefit Fund and other issues. 24 February 2013: A meeting and Installation of Officers for 2013 took place at Wicker Park Social Center, in Highland, Indiana. Officers for 2013 are: Chairman, Michael Pearson, Jr.; Vice Chairman, Herb Smith; Treasurer, Beth Raddatz; Financial Secretary, Jean Ogrentz; Assistant Financial Secretary, Bryan Tomky; Recording Secretary, Linnea Ogrentz; Assistant Recording Secretary, Michelle Westlund; Master Of Ceremonies, Fred Raddatz; Assistant Master Of Ceremonies, Lisa Raddatz; Cultural Leader, Annelise Gingold – Nelson; Chaplain, Janice Tomky; Outer Guard, Les Lesko; Inner Guard, Ingrid Lesko; Lodge Historian, Michelle Westlund; Trustees: Chairman Lisa Pearson (3 years), Phyllis Kalajian (2 years), and Wanda Huszar (1 year); and Auditors: Chairman Jean Ogrentz (3 years), Herb Smith (2 years), and Timothy Ogrentz (1 year). A potluck supper was enjoyed with the celebration. 11 March 2013: The Genealogy Group met with leader Herb Smith. 18 March 2013: The regular lodge meeting took place at Ridge United Methodist Church. Upcoming: Lodge meetings are on the third Monday of each month at Ridge United Methodist Church in Munster, Indiana; Viking Lectures are on the first Tuesday of each month at the Munster Public Library; and Genealogy classes are on the second Monday of each month at Ridge United Methodist Church. All are Welcome! Visit our website at www.nordikfolk.com or if more information is needed, call Lynda Smith at 219 – 923 - 8777 or email lamsmith@hotmail.com. submitted by Lynda A. Smith
Svea Lodge #253 celebrates 100 YEARS ! Join us Sunday, June 2, 2013 2:00-5:00 PM Entertainment – Majstång – Raffles Delicious Smörgåsbord - BYOB Live Music & Dancing with Dans Norden, Accordionists & Scandilocity Musicians Children’s Games
Wear your Vasa nametag Native costumes encouraged! Location: Latvian Community Center 1008 West 64th Street Indianapolis, Indiana 46260 Plenty of Parking
Cost: $20 for adults, children under 18 free. RSVP to Faye Bevelhimer fbevel@sbcglobal.net, 317.842.1783 8225 Castleton Boulevard Indianapolis, IN 46256-3521
Last day to register: May 18, 2013 Make checks payable to Svea #253, VOA
Ride a Swedish-built all-terrain vehicle at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand
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Svea # 253 marks 100 years!
YOUTH CORNER District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8 Children’s Clubs are: Vårblomman #54 – North side of Chicago, Illinois: (773) 282-9423 Förgät Mig Ej #64 – Far Northwestern suburbs of Chicago, Illinois: (847) 516-3103 Nordikids #208 – Northwest Indiana and southern suburban Chicago, Illinois: (219) 923-8777; http://www.nordikids.com/ In Truth and Unity, Lynda Ann Smith District Lodge # 8 Youth Supervisor / Grand Lodge Youth Director
LUCIA CELEBRATION at Daley Center 13 December 2012: District # 8 was well represented at the annual Lucia Celebration in Chicago, Illinois. Participating from Nordik Folk # 761 and Nordikids # 208 in this traditional and festive occasion were: Emily Pearson, from Hammond, Indiana, representing District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8; Jennifer Pearson, from Hammond, Indiana, representing Bessemer No. 203; Lisa Raddatz, from Munster, Indiana, representing Nordikids No. 208; and Past Queen Abigail Ogrentz, from Chicago, Illinois. Tusen Tack to all the Lucia representatives.
NORDIKIDS # 208 4 February 2013: The children’s group began this term’s weekly classes and rehearsals. They will meet every Monday evening through April 29, 2013 for learning music, singing, folk dancing, crafts, the Swedish language, and Swedish culture. Upcoming is the annual Spring Fest on Sunday, April 28, 2013, in the South Hall at Westminster Presbyterian Church, in Munster, Indiana. The theme this year is “Trolls In Scandinavian Folklore”. 18 February 2013: The children’s group received CDs with a playlist of 50 tracks of Swedish songs, music, and spoken Swedish for the children and their families to practice outside of the weekly class meetings. They are preparing for the annual Spring Fest on April 28, 2013. submitted by Lynda Ann Smith Nordik Folk No. 761 / Nordikids No. 208
VASA BRIDAL CROWN Our District has a beautiful gold bridal crown available to members and their children and grandchildren. This crown carries the tradition of Sweden where many churches provide such a crown for the use of their congregations. An application to use it must be completed, and after the wedding, we ask that the crown be returned along with a photograph or two of the bride wearing it on her wedding day. If you or someone in your family is planning a wedding, consider taking advantage of this special opportunity. Call me at 877 – 923 – 8777 (toll free) or email at lamsmith@hotmail.com. Lynda Smith District Supervisor Of Children’s / Youth Clubs
The year was 1913 and master tailor Gustav “Gust” Rosberg of Indianapolis decided to celebrate his sixty - fifth birthday in an unusual way. He rented a hall and placed an ad in the local newspaper inviting all the Swedes in Indianapolis to his party. It happened that at this time, two members of Skansen Lodge # 99 of VOA in Waltham, Massachusetts, had just moved to Indianapolis. They saw Gust Rosberg’s newspaper ad and asked him if they could make a presentation about the Vasa Order of America at his party. From that birthday celebration, the lodge was born. The first meeting of interested persons was held May 1, 1913, with the group discussing whether to form a separate Swedish organization or to join Vasa. They decided on a membership fee of $2.00 for men and $1.00 for women, “which can be changed as the organization grows”. Twenty - seven members joined that evening; a chairman, treasurer, and secretary were elected; and the evening’s income was $36.00. At the next meeting, on May 14, the question was put to a vote: Separate Swedish group or Vasa? A majority of those present voted to establish a Vasa lodge. Seven new members joined, the evening’s income was $14.00, and the treasury now totaled $50.00. On May 29, 1913, Svea Lodge # 253 of the Vasa Order of America was chartered in Indianapolis, with 42 founding members. Carl Festin from Chicago attended to present the charter and 11 officers were installed, including one officer with the title “Cashier”. Gustav Rosberg, whose birthday had started the ball rolling, was named Past Chairman and Otto Swanson was installed as the first Chairman of the new lodge. It was decided to charge a monthly fee of 50 cents for men and 25 cents for women. Meetings were to be held monthly on second and fourth Thursdays, at 8 PM, at 52-1/2 Monument Place in downtown Indianapolis. Charges for the evening of May 29, 1913 were: Charter $30.00, hall rent $2.00, sandwiches $1.80, and ice cream and cookies $3.70. For many years, Svea # 253 was quite small. In 1943, there were 17 members and by 1978, fewer than 10. Indeed, the lodge had all but given up, and in anticipation of closure, had sent regalia and records to the Vasa Archives. However, in 1979, the remaining members, who by that time were meeting in private homes, began dedicated efforts to rejuvenate the lodge. And it worked! The lodge has steadily grown and by the end of 2012, Svea Lodge # 253 had 115 members. We hold regular monthly meetings, September through May, at the Latvian Community Center, a spacious and convenient location in northwest Indianapolis. We also have our Midsommar, Kräftskiva, and Luciafest at the Latvian Center. For the past several years, attendance at Luciafest has exceeded 200. Our members are an enthusiastic group of Scandinavian Americans. We have wonderful programs and excellent refreshments and look forward to our next 100 years. Our centennial celebration is set for Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2013, 2 - 5 PM, at the Latvian Community Center, 1008 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260. We will have a program, with singing, instrumental music, and dancing around the majstång, a raffle, games for children, and a delicious smörgåsbord with salad, rolls, meatballs with lingonberries, beverages, and special Swedish foods: smörgåstårta med räkor, lax, ägg, m.m., smörgåstårta med skinka, jordgubbstårta and prinsesstårta (sandwich cake with shrimp, salmon, eggs, etc.,
11 sandwich cake with ham, strawberry cake and princess cake for dessert). Cost: $20.00 adults, children under 18 free. RSVP by May 18. Please see ad on page 9, “Svea Lodge #253 celebrates 100 years!” – submitted by Jean Tygum, Chair, Svea Lodge #253, with thanks to Jenne Swain, Historian, and Kristina Grasso, Assistant Recording Secretary, for lodge history and translation of original 1913 minutes written in Swedish. ***************************************************
HÄR OCH DÄR by Lillemor Horngren
ÅNGERMANLAND This province dates back to the early 1100s and the Gulf of Bothnia covers the eastern borders. The beautiful crag - like archipelago covers the whole coastline, and the area is called Höga Kusten, and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The largest cities are Härnösand, Örnsköldsvik, and Sollefteå. Härnösand became a city in 1585. Along the river Ångermanälven the land is fertile for farming. The rest of the province consists of forests, mainly evergreen such as spruce. Until the 14th century, this province together with Medelpad, was part of the province of Hälsingland. One interesting fact is that the land rises at a rate of one centimeter every year as an effect of the last ice age that ended in the 7th millennium B. C. The Swedish popular delicacy Surströmming is being produced on Ulvön along Norrlandskusten. Extensive genealogy research has discovered many well known Swedes are hailing from Ångermanland. Among them is Prime Minister Thorbjörn Fälldin, author Selma Lagerlöf, and many persons in the entertainment field. The flower and fauna in Ångermanland are: Flower Styvmorsviol love – in - idleness, pansy Animal Bäver beaver Mushroom Sillkremla russula Fish Sik lavaret, white fish Bird Gråspett gray woodpecker, picidae The Valthornet is available on the VOA web site. To access the quarterly Valthornet newsletters on the web, go to: www.vasaorder.com; click on "Lodge Directory" (left side); click on "DL Lake Michigan No. 8" (left column); click on "Lake Michigan No. 8"; click on "Newsletters"; then click on the date of the Valthornet desired. At times, the Valthornet on the web site may contain one or more additional pages than the USPS mailed version, because there is more news to report.
Scandinavian Park, Inc. NFP
VASA PARK Events The 60th Jubileum of Vasa Park was celebrated on March 2, 2013 at the Des Plaines Elks Club, in Des Plaines, Illinois. This was the 10th Annual Dinner Dance and Fund Raiser presented by Scandinavian Park, Inc. NFP. Attendees enjoyed cocktails and dinner, which was a combination of Queen Filet of Beef and Chicken Breast, soup, salad, potatoes, vegetables, dessert, and coffee. Dancing music was provided by the Dave Kyrk Trio. There were raffles prizes and generous donations from Scandinavian organizations and businesses. Thank you to Jack Grandin for coordinating the reservations. Congratulations to Vasa Park! Sunday, September 8, 2013 --- Annual Scandinavian Day at Vasa Park in South Elgin, Illinois Vasa Park is a beautiful 25 acre park located along the Fox River on Route # 31 in South Elgin, Illinois. We invite everyone to discover and celebrate the culture, traditions and heritage of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. The Park is operated by the Scandinavian Park, Inc., NFP. Please “like” our page VASA PARK Illinois www.facebook.com/vasapark.Il (it is not necessary to have a Facebook account for this site). For more information, please visit our websites: www.vasaparkil.com and www.scandinaviandayil.com. Make note of events at Vasa Park, Route # 31, South Elgin, Illinois. vasaparkil@yahoo.com; (847) 695 – 6720. Contributor: Jackie Moline, Secretary of the Board of Scandinavian Park, Inc., NFP
12 Om Ni har frågor gällande alla våra event som pågår, kontakta Viktoria på tel: 309 – 927 – 3898. If you have questions regarding our events, please contact Viktoria by phone: 309 – 927 – 3898.
Gamla och nya nyheter från Arkivet: Ny väntar vi med spänning på den kommande våren och vad den skall medföra, vi hoppas att vår månadsmarknad som börjar 6 april i Arkivets underbara trädgård, skall ge oss många extra besökare och förhoppningsvis nya medlemmar. Nedan följer datum för de som vill besöka oss eller hyra ett bord och sälja sina egna saker. (tala med arkivet om Du vill hyra en egen yta.) We are waiting for the upcoming spring and what it will bring. We hope our monthly market that begins April 6 in the Archives' wonderful backyard will give us many extra visitors and hopefully new members. Below are dates for those who want to visit us or rent a table and sell their own stuff. (Talk to the archive if you want to rent your own space.) Varje gång det är marknad, så pågår det övriga arrangemang i byn. Den 11 Maj, firar vi Våren med Sång, musik och Majbrasa. Vi serverar korv med bröd, kaffe, dricka, med mera. Hjärtligt Välkomna! While we have the market, you can attend other events in the village. On 11 May, we celebrate spring with Song, Music and Bonfire. We serve hot dogs, coffee, drink, and more. Welcome! Under Vintern har vi försökt att strukturera upp arkivboxarna, ca 250 boxar är gjorda men vi har ytterligare ca 300 att gå i genom, detta för att allt skall läggas in på data, samt underlätta för oss och våra besökare att finna material för forskning. Samtidigt har vi hittat mycket nytt material att plocka fram och visa upp när vår utställning om Samerna är över. Till detta enorma arbete har jag äran att få hjälp av Lilly Setterdahl. Hennes kunnande, erfarenhet och arrangemang, är en guld gruva för arkivet och mig. This winter we have gone through about 250 archival boxes, but still have to go through another 300, and enter the contents in a computer file, which will make it easier for us and our visitors to find material for research. At the same time, we have found much new material to show after the Sami exhibition is over. I have the honor to be helped by Lilly Setterdahl. Her knowledge and experience have been a ‘gold mine” for the archive and me. Sist men inte minst! Arkivet och jag önskar Er alla en underbar Vår. Vi hoppas på att få se många härligt leende ansikten här kommande säsong. Var rädda om Er och håll Er friska! Last but not least! The Archive and I wish you all a wonderful spring season. We hope to see many beautiful smiling faces this season. Take care of yourself and keep healthy! Viktoria Almgren
Weaver’s reed of reindeer antler by Kjell Winka, woven ribbon by Edit Svakko, photo by Jan Gustavsson; Milking container for reindeer by Tomas Magnusson, photo by Lena Kuoljok Lind; Bag of reindeer leather by Britta-Karin Winka Svakko, photo by Lena Kuoljok Lind. Background photo by Kate Kärrberg.
This exhibition will be on display at the Vasa Order of America National Archives Bishop Hill, Illinois, USA
throughout the month of JUNE 2013 ************************************************** Come Learn About Your Swedish Roots! Museum • Archives • Library • Genealogy OPEN APRIL - DECEMBER Tues. - Sat. 10am - 4pm & Sun. 11pm - 3pm Open by Appointment January - March 109 South Bishop Hill Street • Bishop Hill, Illinois 61419, USA Tel. / Fax 309-927-3898 We speak Swedish!
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IN MEMORY John Vincent Peterson – Linné No. 153 John Vincent "Vince" Peterson, 76, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, January 5, 2013, at Memorial Hospital on his mother's 102nd birthday. He was born on April 28, 1936, in Littleton, Colorado, to Edwin and Ruth (Ohman) Peterson. On August 9, 1964, in Urbana, Illinois, at the Wesley Foundation Church at the University of Illinois, he married the former Carolyn Stahl. Dr. Peterson is survived by his wife of forty - eight years, Carolyn Peterson; two daughters, Linnea Kay (Mike) Coultrip of Pleasanton, California, and Kristina Ruth (Jason) Marsack of Houston, Texas; two sons, Karl Ivar (Holly) Peterson of London, England, and Erik Vincent (Briana) Peterson of Colchester, Connecticut; and eight grandchildren, Ryan Michael and William Vincent Coultrip of California, Kennedy Grace and Karter Vincent Peterson of England, Jonathon David and Andrew Jason Marsack of Texas, and Cole Thomas and Bryce Vincent Peterson of Connecticut. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Carolyn Crooks and Anne Cislak. Dr. Peterson grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and moved to South Bend, Indiana, in 1969. He graduated from Fenger High School, Chicago, Illinois, and attended the University of Illinois at Navy Pier, then transferred to the University of Illinois at Champaign Urbana where he completed his Bachelor's, Master's and Ph.D. degrees. Dr. Peterson taught educational and counseling psychology at IUSB, where he developed the original master's level counseling program and was its program director for many years. He developed the University Center for Excellence in Teaching (UCET) along with Dr. Eileen Bender and created the Counseling Center at IUSB. Upon his retirement in 2000, he was awarded the Professor Emeritus status. He also was awarded the 1994 President's Award for Excellence in Teaching for the Indiana University system, awarded membership in the Faculty Colloquium on Excellence in Teaching (FACET) in 1992-1993, and in 1997 the Indiana Counseling Association recognized him for distinguished counselor education. Dr. Peterson was a 70 year member of the International Order of Good Templars (IOGT), IOGT National Council Board member, IOGT US Council Board member, IOGT Legislative Director and International - IOGT Alcohol Blogger, VASA, Sons of Norway, American Counseling Association and Indiana Counseling Association. He was also a certified Health Service Professional for 12 years, and a member of Brainworks at the Leighton Center, where he was the chair of their Sage - ing Council; he was on the board of directors for the Samaritan Center, a mentor for the South Bend Community School Corporation for 10 years, and a former board member of the Alcoholism Council. He was looking forward to the dedication of the J. Vincent and Carolyn J. Peterson Education and Counseling Suite at IUSB this summer. Dr. Peterson was an avid Cubs, Bears, Illini and Notre Dame women's basketball fan. He was a devoted husband, loving and proud father of his four children, their spouses and his eight grandchildren. He attended the Unitarian Church. He enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and the world with his wife. In 2011, they traveled from Beijing to Hong Kong. In July 2012, Vince and Carolyn Peterson went to Barcelona, Spain, and took a Mediterranean cruise aboard the Norwegian Epic with sixteen additional family members, his children, their spouses and his grandchildren. It was truly the trip of a lifetime. Contributions in memory of John Vincent Peterson may be made to the St. Joseph County Community Foundation; to the Peterson Family Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance for
each year for under - represented students in the graduate counseling program; or to IUSB for the above - named suite.
Madelyn Sundquist – Svea No. 253 Madelyn Sundquist, a longtime Indianapolis resident and civic leader, died Saturday, December 29, 2012, of acute myeloid leukemia. She was 82. Mrs. Sundquist was the widow of Lyle E. Sundquist, who died in 2007. The couple met at Purdue University, where they received bachelor's degrees in 1952 and married the same year. They settled in Indianapolis in 1957, where Mr. Sundquist worked as a mechanical engineer and manufacturer's representative, and eventually founded the Sundquist Company, which continues. Mrs. Sundquist had an abiding interest in civic affairs in her community and beyond. She was active in the League of Women Voters dating to then Mayor Richard Lugar's campaign for "Unigov" in the late 1960s. In addition to her work with the League, Mrs. Sundquist was active with the Indianapolis Propylaeum, Spay - Neuter Services of Indiana, Saint Luke's United Methodist Church, and Epworth United Methodist Church. She supported a variety of civic and community organizations, including WFYI, ACLU of Indiana, and Planned Parenthood of Indiana. Mrs. Sundquist's interest in history and culture led her to travel widely, in part to participate in Elderhostel / Road Scholar programs. Most recently, in summer 2012, before being diagnosed with AML, she visited Scotland and Ireland to study Celtic spirituality. She earned a master's degree in education, focusing on social studies, at IUPUI in 1981 and worked as a substitute teacher in Washington Township schools. Mrs. Sundquist, a vegetarian, also had a strong interest in healthy, sustainable foods, seeking out locally grown and organic products at the Broad Ripple Farmer's Market and elsewhere. She was an avid tennis player and fan. She also cheered the Indianapolis Colts and Purdue's football team. She was a talented calligrapher. She was healthy and active until the last months of her life, when her body could no longer do what her spirit would will. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Mrs. Sundquist was the daughter of the late William and Mary Schroeder. She is survived by her sons Eric Sundquist of Madison, Wisconsin, and Carl Sundquist of Fort Smith, Arkansas; daughter – in - law Dorothy Sundquist of Madison, Wisconsin; and granddaughters Haley Sundquist of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Madelyn Sundquist of Madison, Wisconsin. Memorial contributions may be sent to the League of Women Voters of Indiana, 5610 Crawfordsville Road, Suite # 1500, Indianapolis, Indiana 46224; to the Indianapolis Propylaeum 1410 North Delaware Street Indianapolis, Indiana 46202; or to Saint Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260.
Ethel M. Manchester – Linde No. 492 Ethel M. (née Lindholm) Manchester entered God's loving arms on January 17, 2013, at age 93. She was the beloved wife of Norbert Manchester for 57 years; loving mother of Karen (Thomas) Dreckmann and Norynne (William) Lahl; devoted grandmother of Amy Noble, Kelly (Joseph) Datka, Daniel (Victoria) Dreckmann, Jeff (Kelly) Lahl, and Mike Pillar; and proud great - grandmother of
14 Taylor, Zoe, Mikayla, and Jack. Ethel Manchester was preceded in death by brothers Vernon and Arthur. She will be missed by many other friends and relatives. She was a longtime member of Eastern Star, VASA, Sons of Norway, and the Women's Auxiliary of Tripoli. Ethel Manchester was a member in Linde Lodge for almost 35 years, and very active over the years. She held the Financial Secretary position for many years, and also assisted with Skansen Children’s Club. You could always count on her to attend the annual District Conventions, and she was very helpful with all of our events, such as Holiday Folk Fair, Dinner events, and when Linde hosted the District Conventions. Our hearts go out to her entire family and especially to her husband Norbert, daughter Norynne Lahl, and granddaughter Amy Noble, who are also Linde members. She will be missed by all.
Activities at the Archives Bishop Hill Village April 6, 2013: Prairie Market / Spring Jubilee May 11, 2013: Bonfire / Majbrasa May 18, 2013: Prairie Market / Quilt Show June 2013: The Land of Sami people June 22, 2013: Prairie Market / Midsommar Music Festival July 13, 2013: Prairie Market / Country Antique Market July 28, 2013: Prairie Market / Antique Car Show August 17, 2013: Prairie Market / Clay and Fiber Fest & Pie and Ice Cream Social September 28, 2013: Prairie Market / Jordbruksdagarna October 19, 2013: Prairie Market / A gathering of Authors
Frank Warner Peterson – Hagar No. 721 Frank Warner Peterson passed away at home on December 24, 2012. He was born in Arvika Värmland, Sweden on July 23, 1922. He was the beloved husband of Vangelene (née Jensen), loving father of Linnea (Paul) Peterson Johnson; proud grandfather of Bjorn, Birgitta, and Kjell Johnson. Frank Peterson was a charter member and past chairman of Hagar Lodge #721 V. O. A., and a member of Vasa Park Association. He played football at Amundsen High School, was a Life Scout, and served in the Air Force.
Gladys Behrendt – Lindgren No. 754 Gladys Behrendt passed away on December 6, 2012. She was a Charter member of the Lindgren Lodge # 754 and always was ready to welcome new members. Gladys Behrendt served our Lodge in many ways, whether it was with an event or show like Arti Gras, or Art Street, or as our Chaplin for many years. Gladys Behrendt was also a charter member of Ascension Lutheran Church ELCA in Allouez, where she was very active and loved. She enjoyed music, gardening, and Scrabble; she worked and later volunteered at Saint Vincent Hospital. She was very proud of her Swedish ancestry and, at her request, Paster Luther Swenson sang the first verse of Lina Sandell's "Trygarre kan Ingen Vara" (Children of the Heavenly Father) in Swedish at her memorial service. She will be missed by many.
SONS OF NORWAY TORSK SUPPERS The Sons of Norway Fosselyngen Lodge # 82 invites the public to their monthly Torsk Dinners at the Norway House, 7507 West Oklahoma Avenue, West Allis, Wisconsin, from 4 pm to 7 pm. The buffet includes: Boiled Cod Fish, Norwegian Meat Balls, Boiled Potatoes, Vegetables, Pickled Beets, Cranberry Sauce, Flat Bread, Dessert, and Coffee. The cost is: $13.00 for Adults and $5.00 for Children (4 years old to 11 years old). Dinners were held on January 26, 2013; February 23, 2013; and March 23, 2013. Call (414) 321-2637 for future reservations.
VASA STAR / VALTHORNET CIRCULATION LIST In preparation for the upcoming District Convention, the co-host lodges mailed (via first - class mail) convention information to every member of a local lodge in District 8. Dozens of envelopes were returned as undeliverable for one reason or another. After many hours and days of investigation and correspondence with local lodge secretaries, I discovered that many of the returned first – class letters were returned because: (a) the individual had died, (b) the individual was no longer a member, (c) the individual moved to another address, (d) there was no forwarding address, or (e) the individual’s name had changed. The circulation list that was used for mailing is the same list that is used to mail the Grand Lodge Vasa Star and the District 8 Valthornet; each publication is mailed four times a year. The dozens of returned first – class letters mean that many Vasa Stars and Valthornets are dumped in the USPS trash can. This of course costs the Grand Lodge (and you, through your dues), and the District Lodge, hundreds of dollars each year in wasted postage and printing costs, plus lots of wasted paper! Even if your local lodge keeps its own mailing list current, that is not enough. All address additions, changes, and deletions MUST BE REPORTED to the Grand Secretary / Circulation Manager Joan Graham as soon as changes are known. DO NOT WAIT until the end of the year report to advise of address changes. It is noted in each issue of the Valthornet and the Vasa Star to report address changes and deletions to: Grand Secretary / Circulation Manager Joan Graham, 5838 San Jose Avenue, Richmond, California 94804; e-mail: circulationvasastar@gmail.com or vasajlg@aol.com. Joella D. Hultgren Editor, Valthornet
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UPCOMING EVENTS
LOCAL LODGE CONTACTS Grand Lodge Convention Siljan-Mora-Tuna # 134
4 February 1908
2014 - Hosted by District Lodge New York No. 4 Evergreen Park, Illinois
(708) 352 – 0042
Lisa Cianci
kmlmc98@comcast.net
District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8 Annual Conventions Thor # 147
3 October 1908
3 May – 5 May 2013: Rockford, Illinois; Co-Hosted by Brahe # 245 & Linde # 492 Channahon, Illinois
(815) 458 – 0974
May 2014: Hosted by Siljan – Mora – Tuna # 134 Sandra Fletcher
sandyfletcher2001@yahoo.com
Siljan-Mora-Tuna # 134 Linné # 153
20 September 1909
21 April 2013 – Regular Meeting; Italian meal provided by Lisa Cianci South Bend, Indiana
(574) 272 - 4625
Judi Parmley
jujiparm@peoplepc.com
19 May 2013 – Regular Meeting; Hors D’Oeuvres 21 July 2013 – Picnic at the residence of Nancy and Sten Hult in Midlothian, Illinois Kronan # 179
6 September 1910
Chicago, Illinois
(847) 677 - 5181
18 August 2013 – Regular Meeting; Ice Cream Social John Nygard
jenygard@comcast.net
15 September 2013 – Regular Meeting; Silent Auction; Submarine Sandwiches Bessemer # 203
16 October 1911
20 October 2013 – Regular Meeting, Hallowe’en Party; Soup Supper Oak Lawn, Illinois
(708) 423 – 4057
1 December 2013 – Election of Officers for 2014; Christmas Party James Pelzman
pelzman@aol.com
19 January 2014 – Regular Meeting Brahe # 245
30 January 1913
Kronan # 179 Rockford, Illinois
(815) 601-3922
Scott Johnson
anderson.joyce@comcast.net
28 April 2013 – April Showers Meeting; Luncheon; Bingo 19 May 2013 – Scandinavian Heritage; Swedish Smörgåsbord, Show And Tell
Svea # 253
29 May 1913
Indianapolis, Indiana
(317) – 352 - 0639
Charlane Jean Tygum
jeantygum@aol.com
25 August 2013 – Picnic Time; Picnic Luncheon; Summer Games 22 September 2013 – 102nd Anniversary Celebration; Luncheon; Bunco Nobel # 288
19 February 1914
27 October 2013 – Hallowe’en Party; Luncheon; Election of 2014 Officers Moline, Illinois
(309) 797 – 6914
Linda Lootens
linloots@mchsi.com
24 November 2013 – Holiday Party; Luncheon; Lucia Program; Grab Bag Gifts
Bessemer # 203 Viljan # 349
7 October 1916
6 April 2013 – Meeting at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church Batavia, Illinois
(815) 895 – 2102
Thomas Cleveland
tcleveland@cityofdekalb.com
2 June 2013 – Meeting at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church Austin # 466
6 April 1925
Svea # 253 Chicago, Illinois
(773) 477 – 0875
7 April 2013 – Cross – Country Skiing In Sweden, presented by Andy Johnson Robert Oberg
12 May 2013 – Skåne Landskap, presented by Kristina Grasso Linde # 492
6 June 1927
2 June 2013 – 100th Anniversary Celebration of the lodge at the Latvian Center New Berlin, Wisconsin
(262) 366 - 9152
4 August 2013 – Kräftskiva annual crayfish party Liza Ekstrand
lekstrand@wi.rr.com
8 September 2013 – Uppland Landskap, presented by Ingrid Childs Joe Harbor # 534
27 April 1929
Saint Joseph, Michigan
(269) 429 - 4207
Linda Tjernlund
lintj3@gmail.com
6 October 2013 – Swedish Royalty, presented by Carin Young 3 November 2013 – Ångermanland Landskap, presented by Ann - Katrin Roth Satellite # 661
22 April 1961
13 November 2013 – 17 November 2013 – Indianapolis International Festival Kalamazoo, Michigan
(269) 623 - 3756
8 December 2013 – Annual Lucia Celebration and Christmas Dinner Carol Olson
olsoncarol1212@yahoo.com
Linde # 492 Bishop Hill # 683
25 March 1968
7 April 2013 – Social event at the home of Liza and Rolf Ekstrand Bishop Hill, Illinois
(309) 932-2068
19 June 2013 – 23 June 2013 – Finn Fest in Hancock, Michigan Jeff Anderson
jeffanderson2552@frontier.com
Bishop Hill # 683 Hagar # 721 Mount Prospect, Illinois
12 November 1977 (847) 297-4645
11 May 2013 – Valborg Celebration at the VASA National Archives Keith Emrikson
kemrikson@comcast.net
24 May 2013 – Annual Memorial Service Viking # 730
15 May 1981
22 June 2013 – Midsommer Celebration at Park and Colony School Flint, Michigan
(810) 639 – 6705
25 August 2013 – Richmond Hills Theater, Genesso. Eric Swanson
ceswan@centurytel.net
27 September 2013 – Weiner Roast and Pot Luck Dinner at Vasa National Archives Lindgren # 754
14 October 1995
25 October 2013 – Crazy Hat Night / Hallowe’en Gotcha at Vasa National Archives Green Bay, Wisconsin
(920) 469 - 1919
Dorothy Juengst
mdjuengst@aol.com
Jubileum # 755
17 November 1996
22 November 2013 – ”Bee Keeping” by Martin Gutzmer and Election of Officers 7 December 2013 – Lucia Program / Christmas Party / Smörgåsbord Madison, Wisconsin
(608) 835 – 5152
Viking # 730 Gunnard Swanson
gunnardswanson@gmail.com
13 April 2013 – Valborg Spring Fest with Fireworks; Valpurgis Potluck Dinner Nordik Folk # 761
29 January 2006
Lindgren # 754 Munster, Indiana
(219) 845 - 6948
April 2013 – Refreshments provided by Cindy Schumerth Michael Pearson, Jr.
musicianman2112@yahoo.com
Nordik Folk # 761 2 April 2013 – Viking Lecture Series continues at Munster Public Library 8 April 2013 – Genealogy Group meets with Herb Smith 15 April 2013 – Regular Lodge Meeting; Ridge United Methodist Church
Nordikids # 208 28 April 2013 – Springfest dinner and musical program; Westminster Church
The list includes a name, location, telephone number, and/or e-mail address for each of the 19 local lodges in District # 8. Please send updated contact information to Joella Hultgren (Editor) at: nodjehult@gmail.com; (317) 733 – 3493; or 13650 Amblewind Place, Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227.
16 VALTHORNET District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8 Vasa Order Of America Joella D. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Indianapolis, IN Permit No. 5677
SWEDISH GLASS – KINGDOM OF CRYSTAL / GLASRIKET
(left and middle) Orrefors glassmaker and samples of Orrefors; (right) Kosta Boda art glass.
Earl Hurst, of Svea No. 253, presented a program on Swedish Glass and the Kingdom Of Crystal – Glasriket, on Sunday, April 3, 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana. VALTHORNET is the official publication of the District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8, Vasa Order of America, and is published in Indianapolis, Indiana. The VALTHORNET is published quarterly in the months of January, April, July, and October. DEADLINES: All news items, photographs, and articles should reach the Editor Joella Hultgren (see page 2 for contact information) by the 15th day of the month before the month of publication, i.e. 15 March, 15 June, 15 September, and 15 December. ADDRESS CHANGES should be sent to: Joan Graham, Grand Secretary, 5838 San Jose Avenue, Richmond, California 94804; Email: circulationvasastar@gmail.com or vasajlg@aol.com.