Valthornet april 2015

VALTHORNET DISTRICT LODGE LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8

April 2015

GLAD PÅSK! HAPPY EASTER! District Master’s Message: To all District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8 Members, Spring is a time of renewal, resurrection and rebirth. The earth comes alive with blooming flowers and trees, spring rains and swollen rivers. Animals come out of hibernation while birds return from their winter homes to build nests and lay eggs. Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Hallelujah!

What do we as Vasa members do? How do we renew our commitment to our organization? What seeds are we planting and nurturing? How do we reignite this organization we cherish? What is that encourages us to renew our membership year after to year to our individual lodge? Is it the friendships, the cultural programming, the food? All of the above? Do you share your enjoyment of the lodge with non members? If so, how? When asked about the Vasa Order of America, how do you describe it?

I have spent the past several Valthornet issues talking about change and its relentless march, as well as the importance of embracing it. We are at a pivotal point in the evolution of our organization. There are so many organizations to become involved in, that it can be daunting to choose. We need to make the choice easy and obvious, Vasa! Why? Because we should be the premier organization for those interested in Nordic culture. We have our foundation in Swedish culture, but embrace all Nordic culture and anyone who shares that interest. We have amazing talent within our ranks.

So what is holding us back? We can all point fingers, but I remember being told as a child, when you point a finger at someone, the rest are pointing back at yourself. We all need to put our collective thinking caps on and make some changes, possibly uncomfortable ones, to breathe new life into our organization. We need to get better at using technology to reach future members; it is here to stay, and more prevalent than ever. We also want to not only attract new members, but retain those we already have by offering programs, opportunities and experiences. We also need to evaluate some of our current benefits, to see if they really fit with our long - term goals.

C. S. Lewis said, “It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg. We are like eggs at present. And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg. We must be hatched or go bad.”

It’s spring, the season of hatching eggs, and fledglings everywhere…..especially within Vasa!

In Truth, Unity, and Generosity, Susan Cleveland, District Master District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8

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DISTRICT LODGE LAKE MICHIGAN NO. 8 EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS and OFFICERS 2014 - 2015 District Master: Susan Cleveland 1117 Foxpointe Drive Sycamore, Illinois 60178 (815) 895 – 2102; Cell: (815) 546 - 1097 Email: mrandmrsc92@comcast.net

Executive Board Member: Gene M. Kiesel 1426 Kennebec Road Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439 (810) 695 – 2563; (810) 513 - 0983 Email: dgkiesel1@att.net

Inner Guard: James Pelzman 9413 South Homan Avenue Evergreen Park, Illinois 60805 (708) 423 – 4057 Email: pelzman@aol.com

Vice District Master: Michael Pearson, Sr. 7309 New Hampshire Place Hammond, Indiana 46323 – 2937 (219) 588 – 4752 Email: mikepearson@nordikfolk.com

Executive Board Member: Paula Stopka 115 Crissey Avenue Geneva, Illinois 60134 (630) 208 – 9850; (630) 269 - 1570 Email: plundberg1066@aol.com

Outer Guard: Steven Westlund 55 West Joliet Street Schererville, Indiana 46375 (219) 322 - 5190 Email: plncrazy@sbcglobal.net

Past District Master: Edward L. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227 (317) 733 – 3493; Cell: (941) 525 - 3700 Email: nodjehult@gmail.com

District Cultural Leader: Timothy Ogrentz 12849 South Manistee Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60633 (773) 646 – 0279; (773) 680 – 6556 Email: timothy.ogrentz@gmail.com

Auditor: Robert Merrill – 3 years 329 Larkin Street Madison, Wisconsin 53705 Home: (608) 238 – 4981; Cell: (608) 692 - 2638 Email: Robert@rtmerrill.com

District Secretary: Nancy Hult 14951 South Kenton Avenue Midlothian, Illinois 60445 (708) 687 – 8943; (708) 602 - 5339 Email: stenanhult@ameritech.net Email: fruhult93@hotmail.com Assistant District Secretary: Joella D. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227 (317) 733 – 3493 Email: nodjehult@gmail.com District Treasurer: John S. Loula 5400 Walnut Place Unit # 715 Downers Grove, Illinois 60515 (630) 852 – 9853; (630) 336 - 1438 Email: jay0215@comcast.net 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

Supervisor Of Children’s / Youth Clubs: Lynda Smith 1502 Azalea Drive Munster, Indiana 46321 – 3812 (219) 923 – 8777; (219) 741 - 8875 Email: lamsmith@hotmail.com District Historian: Iva Lynn * 6035 Riva Ridge Drive Indianapolis, Indiana 46237 - 5001 (317) 714 - 9986 Email: ivalynn30@aol.com; lraylynn@aol.com District Chaplain: Marvin Anderson 5626 Boy Scout Road Indianapolis, Indiana 46226 - 1320 (317) 591 - 0235 Email: louandmarv@gmail.com Master of Ceremonies: David Runstrom 6716 Tall Oaks Drive Unit # 1A Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009 (269) 221 – 0917; (269) 375 - 7165 Email: DRunstrom@RMWrightCo.com

Auditor: Herbert Smith – 2 years 1502 Azalea Drive Munster, Indiana 46321 – 3812 (219) 923 – 8777: cell: (219) 741 - 8771 Email: hwsmith3@hotmail.com Auditor: Eric Swanson – 1 year 8433 North McKinley Road Flushing, Michigan 48433 (810) 639 – 6705 Email: ceswan@centurytel.net VALTHORNET Editor: * Joella D. Hultgren 13650 Amblewind Place Carmel, Indiana 46074 – 8227 (317) 733 – 3493 Email: nodjehult@gmail.com Grand Lodge Deputy: Christine Kilstrom 7010 West 86th Place Apartment # 1C Burbank, Illinois 60459 (708) 423 – 2158 cskilstrom@comcast.net * Appointed by the District Master

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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 and photographs should reach the Editor Joella Hultgren (see above for contact information) by the last day of the month before the month of publication, i.e. 31 March, 30 June, 30 September, and 31 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 advertisements are: March 31 for the April issue, June 30 for the July issue, September 30 for the October issue, and December 31 for the January issue.

District Lodge Lake Michigan # 8

2015 Convention You’ve got a Flicka in Kalamazoo!

Satellite Lodge # 661 (Kalamazoo, Michigan) is excited to host the 2015 VASA District Lodge Lake Michigan #8 Convention on May 29 – 31, 2015. It will be held at the Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The convention kicks off on Friday with the options of a local golf outing in the morning or a KUBB tournament at noon in nearby Bloomingdale, Michigan. The cultural room will be in full swing Friday afternoon.

The cultural event Friday evening will be a collection of Scandinavian folk and dance tunes courtesy of a Western Michigan University string quartet (graduate students) and then the hospitality room opens thereafter.

For those not attending the convention meetings on Saturday we wanted to make specific mention of the variety of downtown specialty shops, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum (very close to the host hotel) and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (nearby) – all within easy walking distance.

Within a short drive are the Air Zoo Aviation Museum (www.AirZoo.org) and the Gilmore Car Museum (www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org). They are both very popular destinations! There are also a small winery and a number of popular microbreweries nearby.

Saturday night we’ll come together for the evening program and banquet and the much - anticipated cash prize drawings. The proceeds from your cash prize drawing purchases help us defray the cost of hosting this convention and we very much appreciate your support. At Saturday evening’s program we will enjoy a local interpretation of the comedy of Ole & Lena.

They will send us off with laughs and smiles as a reminder of the things we cherish about our Swedish heritage. The convention will continue Sunday with the Memorial Service (honoring 35 District members) and then additional convention business.

Please consider placing notices in our convention program, perhaps in memory of a loved one. The price for notices within our official program will be $100.00 (full page), $50.00 (half page) and $25.00 (quarter page). Proceeds from this revenue also help us to defray the cost of hosting the convention.

3 To see more information regarding the interesting things to see in Kalamazoo, Michigan, please see the Discover Kalamazoo website at www.DiscoverKalamazoo.com. Thank you and we look forward to seeing many of you in Kalamazoo late this spring!

Dear VASA Lodge Member (District Lodge Lake Michigan #8): This notice arrives with greetings to you from the Satellite Local Lodge #661 (Kalamazoo, Michigan). We are honored to be the host lodge for the upcoming annual District convention to be held in Kalamazoo, Michigan on May 29 -31, 2015.

We have a great convention weekend planned for all of the delegates and officers. Friday night we will be hosting a hospitality event, providing refreshments for all convention attendees. Friday night’s cultural program event will be a string quartet from Western Michigan University (graduate students) performing a variety of Swedish dance tunes and folk music. There will be a golf outing early in the day on Friday and also this year (on Friday at noon) there will be the first annual KUBB tournament. Saturday morning and most of the afternoon will be filled with meetings and the evening will culminate with a banquet, awards and the selection of winning tickets for the cash prize drawing described below. Saturday evening will also include an entertaining program of Ole and Lena jokes and comedy. That portion will feature two local Scandinavian - Americans named Kristi and Kathy.

A memorial service will take place early Sunday morning followed by continuation and closing of convention business.

There are many expenses associated with holding a convention of this nature. In order to help us with these significant expenditures, we are having a cash prize drawing. Each individual ticket is $2.00 and a book of six tickets is value priced at $10.00. Every household in DLLM#8 should have received two books in a mailing along with a pre - addressed return envelope. We sincerely hope that you would be able to support us by making a purchase of one or two of the cash prize drawing ticket booklets. Checks can be written (as noted on the ticket booklets themselves) to Satellite Lodge #661.

The cash prizes for the drawing are as follows: $300.00 - First Prize $100.00 - Second Prize $ 50.00 - Third & Fourth Prizes Won’t you please help us in our efforts to support this year’s District convention and also continue to keep VASA thriving in the Midwest as we share and celebrate our great Nordic culture?

If anyone has any questions, comments, or concerns pertaining to any of what we’ve described, you are welcome to contact our Satellite Lodge #661 convention planning committee member, Kim Tilma. Her telephone number is (269) 344 – 5195.

You may also request additional ticket booklets. Mail your ticket stubs and donations to: Judith and Ted Ruser, 10890 North 40th Street, Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060 – 9507.

Thank you very much for your consideration & support!

(Tack för din uppmärksamhet och stöd!)

In Truth & Unity, VASA Satellite Lodge #661 District Convention Planning Committee

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- CALLING ALL VASA MEMBERS –

HÄR OCH DÄR NEW NOMINATION PROCESS FOR DISTRICT OFFICES We are excited to announce that this year, there is going to be a brand new process for nominating and electing officers for our District.

There is much talent in our local lodges. We need people who are knowledgeable, hard working and dedicated to carrying on our Nordic traditions and maintaining the operations of our District.

We would appreciate local lodge leaders, willing to step up and join the ranks of our District leaders.

New ideas and perspectives are what help any organization grow and keep up with the times. Vasa is no different. If we hope to be relevant in today’s society and hope to attract new members and grow, we have to include our best and brightest in our leadership team as we move forward into the future.

Each local lodge secretary is receiving a letter explaining this new NOMINATION process along with a blank Nomination form. Lodges are encouraged to nominate one (or more) of their members for a District Office. This form may be filled out by the lodge secretary or by individuals themselves who wish to be considered. The form includes a BIO…..a place for information to be shared on the experience and qualifications of the prospective candidate.

In order to be nominated, an individual: 1. Must be either a delegate, or past delegate, to the District Lodge; 2. Must be going to the convention in Kalamazoo, Michigan this year; 3. Must be willing to accept the nomination; and 4. For Executive Board positions, must be willing to meet twice during the year and at next year’s convention for District Business.

Please embrace this new process by offering talented and highly qualified candidates for District Office positions. Thanks So Much.

Nominating Committee: Vice District Master Michael Pearson Sr., District Hospital Fund Secretary Linda Tylk, and District Lodge Youth Supervisor Lynda Smith Nominating Committee Chairman: PDM Christine Kilstrom

by Lillemor Horngren

ALFRED NOBEL Scientist, Inventor and Businessman Most of you know about the Nobel Prizes awarded every year in Stockholm, Sweden, on December 10th. The awards chosen by a select group from the Swedish Academy are as follows: Physics, Chemistry, Medicine or Physiology, Literature, and most recently, Economic Sciences. The Peace Prize is chosen and awarded at the same time in Oslo, Norway.

There is so much information about this famous Swede, Alfred Bernhard Nobel. If you are really interested to know more, please visit your local library, bookstore, or the Internet. The information I have for you in this issue was taken from Nobel Institutes official website.

Alfred Nobel was born in Stockholm, Sweden, on October 21, 1833. He had two older brothers. His father was an engineer and inventor. When his business failed he moved to Finland and then Russia. Alfred Nobel’s mother was left behind in Sweden. To support her family she started a grocery store.

In 1842 the family moved to Russia to join the father who now was a successful owner of a mechanical workshop supplying the Russian army with equipment during the Crimean war. A fourth son was born during that time. All four sons received first class education and tutoring. By age 17, Alfred Nobel could read and write Swedish, Russian, French, English, and German. His father wanted him to succeed him in his business but Alfred Nobel was more interested in literature, chemistry, and physics. To further his studies he was sent overseas to study chemical engineering.

Alfred Nobel had at one time met the Italian chemist Ascanio Sobrero, who had invented nitroglycerin. Although it was thought to be too dangerous for regular use, Alfred Nobel could see the possibilities of using it in construction work.

After the Crimean war the family, except the two older brothers, moved back to Sweden. Alfred Nobel continued experimenting by using nitroglycerin as an explosive.

However the many tests were unsuccessful, causing many deaths, including his younger brother Emil. He was forced, by the city politicians, to move from Stockholm, Sweden, but continued his work on a barge in the middle of Lake Mälaren.

He finally mixed nitroglycerin with a fine sand called kielselguhr which would turn the liquid into a paste which could be formed into rods. These rods could be inserted into drilled holes and detonated by lighting a fuse. Alfred Nobel received a patent and legal rights to this invention in 1867 and he called it “dynamite”.

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KULTUR HÖRN / CULTURE CORNER

TRADITIONS OF SPRINGTIME Another hard winter is finally over and spring is upon us. With new warmth comes the reawakening of all things green and growing. This is also the time Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

Although the great majority of modern Sweden is Christian, most natives celebrate Easter as a secular holiday. Children dress up as Easter witches, clad in old clothing, brightly colored headscarves, and red-painted cheeks, and go from house to house on what amounts to a proper American trick – or - treat, presenting home - made art to their neighbors in the hopes of getting sweets.

Festivities also include Easter egg painting and egg rolls (no, not the Chinese kind!). In just about every home, you’ll also find a display made with birch or willow twigs, sometimes decorated with feathers. How did these traditions start? Well, according to legend, possibly originating around the 1600’s during the time of Swedish witch hunts, on skärtorsdagen, which is the Thursday before Easter, all witches fly on their broomsticks to a place called Blåkulla. Here the witches were believed to have wild gatherings where they met with the devil. Some think that this legend was somehow incorporated into the costumed door – to - door treat seeking we see today.

How did Easter first start, you ask? Some of you may know that the word ‘Easter’ was first proposed as a name for the celebration of the resurrection of Christ by an 8th century monk named Saint Bede. He derived the word “Easter” from an Anglo - Saxon name for the mother

goddess of the spring, dawn and new life and beginnings, a goddess called “Eastre”.

In pagan times, March 21st marked the day of the spring equinox. On this day Pagans held a festival in honor of “Eastre”. During the festival, a rabbit was used as a symbol of fertility. Also, eggs were painted with bright colors to represent the sunlight brought by the coming of spring. The eggs were then given to friends and families as gifts, or used in egg rolling contests, like we still have today.

However one celebrates it, spring is definitely the season of rebirth, renewal, and growth. Let us take our example from nature, history, and legend to renew our commitment and grow together in the fellowship of Vasa.

In våren ingen tänker på den snö som föll förra året!

- Swedish Proverb [In the spring, no one thinks of the snow that fell last year!]

References: http://www.weirdworm.com/; https://sweden.se/culture-traditions/easter/; http://blogs.sweden.se/expat/2011/04/22/blakulla-easterwitches-and-other-true-stories-of-an-obviously-christianholiday/ In Generosity, Truth, and Unity, Timothy Ogrentz, District 8 Cultural Leader 773 – 680 - 6556 timothy.ogrentz@gmail.com culture@thevasaorder.com

Vasa Order of America Dist rict Lodge Lak e Michigan No.8

KUBB W hen : Fr i day, M ay 29 th @ Noon W her e: H er b an d L yn da Sm i th’s!

47015 Vine Street, Bloomington, MI 49026 (just 20 minutes from the Radisson in Kalamazoo!)

In case you need help finding the place….Lynda’s cell: 219-741-8875

Enjoy Vasa FELLOWSHIP and UNITY! Sm all , Fam i ly-Fr i en dl y Tou r n am en t !

Look for REGISTRATION details with the upcoming Convention mailer

ORGANIZERS - Tim Ogrentz, DLCL, Lynda Smith, DLYS, Herb Smith, DL Auditor

W h at i s K ubb?

Kubb (pronounced koob) is a backyard game of Scandinavian origin. Some call it “Viking Chess” and play involves throwing round sticks at rectangular blocks. Simple—yes, but strategy and skills enhance the game. Kubb can be easily picked up by anyone from 80-year-olds to 8year-olds. Teams can range from 1 to 6 people.

That means you can play one-on-one or 6 on 6.

Visit http://www.thevasaorder.com/culture.html for information on culture, language, and upcoming events in the District 8 Culture Blog.

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FUNDERINGAR FRÅN INEZ

MUSINGS FROM INEZ

Tredje Gången Gillt!

Third Time's A Charm!

Tjaa, jag börjar komma upp i åren. Det har jag ingenting emot. Jag trivs med varje år.

Mina memoarer är skrivna och tryckta. I julas gav jag ut ett exemplar till var och en av mina barn, mina svärsöner och mina barnbarn. Jag vet inte om de läser dem. Jag sade till ungarna att det inte skulle bli något förhör på innehållet.

Nu till oavslutat arbete! Jag har börjat på min släktforskning två gånger. Första gången var år 1982. Jag intervjuade min mamma. Hon hade ett utomordentligt minne och gav mig namn, data och platser för två generationer för alla fyra av våra släktgrenar. Jag skrev ner allt. Vid det sverigebesöket, hade jag hyrt bil, och Mamma och jag jämförde gamla kort med platser, som vi trodde kunde ha varit hemman som tillhörde vår familj, och vi hittade faktiskt några, och då blev vi så glada!

Jag fick en märklig känsla av samhörighet med evigheten, när vi trampade på samma jord, samma stenar, där min mormor hade lekt som liten.

Jag återvände till Amerika, till ett liv fullt med arbete, barn osv., och jag lade undan mina anteckningar.

Min släktforskning vaknade till liv igen år 2000. Vid den tiden hade jag pensionerat mig och fick det underbara jobbet att vara gruppledare för Elderhostel.

Vi ledde grupper med svenskamerikaner till Kronoberg Folkhögskola i Växjö, Småland, och där lärde vi oss släktforskning. I min hemstad Eskilstuna i Södermanland fortsatte jag på stadsbiblioteket, och också vid mormonkyrkan i Schaumburg här vid Chicago.

När jag slutade för andra gången, hade jag samlat ihop sju generationers namn, födelser, dop, äktenskapsdata och platser.

I dag, när jag tittar på alla dessa uppgifter, vet jag att det är ganska enkelt att samla en massa namn. Men jag känner en sådan längtan att veta de mänskliga historierna bakom de blygsamma framgångarna och oförklarade tragedierna. Jag önskar att jag kunde kika bakom förflutna århundradens ridå och förstå!

Min pappa var tvilling, född 1900. Jag letade i hans mors familj och hittade ett par systrar födda 1800. Fanns där ett annat par tvillingar födda 1700? Varför lämnade en ung kvinna sin hemort Herrljunga i Västergötland år 1858 och reste norrut till Södermanland och blev min farmorsmor? Varför nådde äldre brodern i min mormors stora familj bara en ålder av tjugoett? I en familjehistoria blev det troliga självmordet ändrat till mord.

Se upp för fel upplysningar! Min pappa blev erbjuden att byta sitt efternamn till namnet på hans mors förmögna farbror, som bara hade två döttrar, men Pappa tackade nej, av lojalitet mot sin far, tror jag. På sextonhundratalet, kostade svenska staten på att föra in en grupp skickliga arbetare från Vallon-området i Belgium till Sverige för att lära svenskarna hantera silver, som man hade upptäckt i Bergslagen, nordväst om min hemstad.

En av dem, vid namn Meijer, blev min förfader. Jag skulle vilja veta var exact han bodde och någonting om den svenska familj, som han bildade.

För allt detta behövs mera grundligt grävande i dunklare källor.

Det ska bli spännande!

I sanning och enighet Inez Törnblom, f.d. Distrktskaplan, Viljan 349

Well, I'm coming up in years. I don't mind.

I like each year.

My memoirs are completed and printed. At Christmas, I gave a copy each to my children, my sons – in - law and my grandchildren. I don't know if they read them. I told the kids there wouldn't be any quiz on the content.

Now, on to unfinished business! I have started my family research twice. The first was in 1982. I interviewed my mother. She had an extraordinary memory and gave me names, dates and places for two generations of all four branches of our family. I noted it all. On that visit to Sweden, I had rented a car, and Mamma and I compared old snapshots to likely places of old homesteads and, to our delight, found some. I had an awesome feeling of connection with eternity, when we walked on that dirt, those stones, where my grandmother had played as a child.

I returned to America, to a busy life of work, child - rearing etc. and I put my notes away.

My genealogy work had a renaissance in the year 2000. I was retired by then and got the delightful job of group leader for Elderhostel.

We took groups of Swedish - Americans to Kronoberg Folk High School in Växjö, Småland, where we all learned family research. On visits in my hometown Eskilstuna in Södermanland, I continued at the Public Library, also at the Mormon church in Schaumburg here in Chicago - land. By the time I quit for the second time, I had accumulated seven generations worth of names, births, baptisms, marriage dates and places.

Today, when I look at all these data, I know that it is easy enough to rack up a lot of names. But I have such a longing to know the human stories behind the modest successes and unexplained tragedies. I wish I could peer behind the heavy curtain of centuries past and understand.

My father was a twin, born 1900. I searched his mother's family and found a pair of sisters born 1800. Was there a third set of twins born 1700? Why did a young woman leave her hometown Herrljunga in Västergötland in 1858 and travel north to Södermanland to become my great grandmother?

Why did the older brother in my grandmother's large family only reach an age of twenty-one? In one family story, the believable suicide was changed to murder. Beware of wrong information! My father was offered the opportunity to change his last name to that of his mother's wealthy uncle who had only two daughters, but my father declined, out of loyalty to his father, I think. In the sixteen hundreds, the Swedish government sponsored a group of skilled workers to come from the Vallon area of Belgium to teach the Swedes how to work with silver, which had been found in Bergslagen, NW of my hometown. One of them, named Meijer, became a forefather of mine. I'd like to know where exactly he lived and something about the Swedish family he formed.

For all this, there is needed more thorough digging into more obscure records. I can't wait!

I sanning och enighet Inez Törnblom, Former District Chaplain, Viljan 349

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NEWS FROM LOCAL LODGES SILJAN – MORA - TUNA # 134 Evergreen Park, Illinois 18 January 2015: We have a new meeting place: Calvary Lutheran Church, 11249 South Spaulding Avenue, in Chicago Illinois 60655 – 2739. The change was effective as of this date. We are still meeting on the 3rd Sunday of the month and at the same time, 2:00 pm. This month’s meeting featured a Chinese Dinner.

15 February 2015: There was a regular meeting at Calvary Lutheran Church in Chicago, Illinois. The Installation of Officers for 2015 took place: Past Chairman, Sten Hult; Chairman, Lisa Cianci; Vice Chairman, Sten Hult; Recording Secretary, Nancy Hult; Financial Secretary, Ted Emmett; Treasurer, Barbara Emmett; Chaplain, Audrey Hiryak; Master Of Ceremonies, Diane Rosengren; Guard, Mavis Carlberg; Cultural Leader, Rey Carlberg; Historian, Sten Hult; Membership Chairman, Ted Emmett; Publicity Chairman, Rey Carlberg; Trustees: Sten Hult (3 years), Rey Carlberg (2 years), and Diane Rosengren (1 year); and Auditors: Shirley Mercier (3 years), Audrey Hiryak (2 years), and Andrea Wilczynski (1 year). A pot luck meal was enjoyed by all.

15 March 2015: A regular meeting was held at Calvary Lutheran Church in Chicago, Illinois. The theme was a Saint Patrick’s Day Party, and the refreshments were sandwiches.

7 February 2015: We met at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois for our installation of officers for 2015.

Following the installation we enjoyed a delicious Italian Meatball sandwich lunch.

7 March 2015: This meeting was held at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois. contributor: Christine Kilstrom

BRAHE # 245 Rockford, Illinois 18 January 2015: Twelve members of our VASA Lodge # 245 met for our monthly meeting on a sunny afternoon in the Cherry Valley District Public Library meeting room in Cherry Valley, Illinois.

KRONAN # 179 Chicago, Illinois 22 February 2015: This meeting at the Svithiod Hall in Chicago, Illinois, was a Valentine’s / Mardi Gras celebration. Officers for 2015 were installed: Chairman, John Nygard; Secretary, Audrey Fields; Treasurer, Linda Bojarski; Financial Secretary, Louise Nygard; Chaplain, Joan Asplund; Master Of Ceremony, Kim Bojarski; Vice Master Of Ceremony, Daniel Szymanski; Inner Guard, Arnold Lidquist; Cultural Leader, Joan Asplund; Program and Activity Directors, Louise Nygard and Lydia Sanderson; Webmaster / Historian / Reporter, Kim Bojarski; Trustees: John Nygard and Arnold Lidquist; and Auditors: Joan Asplund, Kim Bojarski, and Audrey Fields. The delegates for the 2015 District Convention were elected. We played Bingo for prizes. To all of our shut – ins and out – of – town members, we think of you often and wish you could be here with us.

22 March 2015: The meeting was held at the Svithiod Hall in Chicago, Illinois. It was a Saint Patrick’s Day theme for lunch. We played Penny Ante. contributor: by Kim Bojarski Webmaster / Historian / Reporter

(front, left to right) Charlotte Tollin, Financial Secretary / Treasurer; and Tess Anderson, Recording Secretary. (back, left to right) Marlyn Ryall, Guard / Trustee; Donald Erickson, Chaplain; Marianne Ekstrand, District Deputy to Brahe # 245; Gary Johnson, Chairman; and David Tollin, Auditor / Vasa Park Board.

Past Chairman Scott Johnson agreed to serve as Vice Chairman in 2015. During the business meeting Tess Anderson read the minutes from the December 2014 meeting, Charlotte Tollin read obituaries of Astrid Nelson and Conrad Johnson, and explained the future per capita VASA dues, and David Tollin discussed VASA Park income, expenses including annual property taxes, and insurance.

Refreshments were provided by Tess Anderson.

15 February 2015: Eleven members of the lodge met on a sunny, but cold afternoon in the Cherry Valley District Public Library meeting room in Cherry Valley, Illinois, where we have been gathering during our winter months!

BESSEMER # 203 Oak Lawn, Illinois Location Reminder: Remember, as of September 8, 2012, our lodge began to meet at Trinity Evangelical Covenant Church, on the North West corner of 93rd and Pulaski (Crawford) in Oak Lawn, Illinois.

Our regular meetings begin at 11 AM. Following the meetings we will be served lunch and we will have an activity. We hope that you will join us. Please note that there are exceptions if it is a special occasion.

10 January 2015: The meeting and tailgate lunch was held at Fox’s Restaurant and Pub, in Oak Lawn, Illinois. The restaurant specializes in pizza.

Gary Johnson, our new 2015 Chairman, opened the meeting.

Recording Secretary Tess Anderson read the minutes of our January meeting. Treasurer / Financial Secretary Charlotte Tollin presented a comprehensive Financial Report. Vasa Park Board Chairman Roy Ylitalo reported that the large amount of snow on the roads in VASA

8 Park may not be melted in time for our March meeting, so it will be held in the Cherry Valley Public Library. Refreshments were provided by Tess Anderson and Don Erickson.

15 March 2015: Vice Chairman Scott Johnson conducted the meeting at the Cherry Valley Public Library on a warm afternoon in Illinois.

Recording Secretary Tess Anderson read the minutes of our February meeting, and Treasurer / Financial Secretary Charlotte Tollin reported income, expenses (including big insurance bills), and the Grand Master's report. The Annual Convention of District Lodge Lake Michigan # 8 will be held in the Radisson Hotel in Kalamazoo, Michigan on May 29, 30, and 31, 2015. David Tollin, VASA Park Board, discussed reviewing VASA Park insurance, including better identification of our numerous buildings. The Vasa Park has two rentals booked so far this coming season. Vice Chairman Scott Johnson said the status of the proposed sale of VASA Park is unchanged. Refreshments today were provided by Charlotte Tollin and Tess Anderson. submitted by Dennis G. Eksten photographer: Dennis G. Eksten

SVEA # 253 Indianapolis, Indiana 4 January 2015: The first meeting of the year was held at the Latvian Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. We welcomed guest and Associate Member Glenn Carlstrand who will be initiated in March 2015. Welcome to new member Bucky Shogren Poppleton who was initiated at the Lucia Fest on December 7, 2014. We also welcome Pearl, the mother of Gregory MacLennan, and Brad, the son of Virginia Strand. The charter was draped for long – time member Sophia Ruth Lindahl Anderson, who died on December 12, 2014. (left) Treasurer Marvin Anderson

The officers for 2015 were installed by Past Chairman John Bevelhimer: Chairman, Jean Tygum; Vice Chairman, Ulla Williams; Treasurer, Marvin Anderson; Recording Secretary, Brenda Miller; Assistant Recording Secretary, Faye Bevelhimer; Financial Secretary, Douglas Krantz; Chaplain, Carol Atherton - Clarkson; Master Of Ceremonies, Dennis Danielson; Inner Guard, Faye Bevelhimer; Cultural Leader, Amy Johnson; Assistant Cultural Leader, Jay Hook; Historian Jenne Swain; Trustees: Charlotte Swenson (1 year), Jay Hook (2 years), and Lois Klubens (3 years); and Auditors: Ken Allen (1 year), Patricia Hoffmann (2 years), and Scott Clarkson (3 years).

Congratulations to our new and continuing officers for 2015. A round of applause and thanks to Carin Young and Janet Jegen for serving as Cultural Leader and Recording Secretary, respectively; they both served with efficiency, diligence, and professionalism.

Tack Så Mycket to the Nominating Committee: Ulla Williams, Dennis Danielson, and Donna Bergstrom, and to Charlotte Swenson,

Consultant. The cultural program was “Facts About Sweden, Swedes, and Interesting Swedish Trivia”, presented by Carin and David Young. Her husband David Young managed the projector and the images were wonderful---great big pictures that filled the screen. (left) Outgoing Cultural Leader Carin Young presented a program on Swedish Trivia.

Quick--how many provinces are there in Sweden? What is the form of government? How many lakes are there in Sweden? What is the population? The program covered all kinds of things (Swedish inventions, for example---so many!). The program consisted of old facts, new facts, old news, new news, and things that every Swede should know on a wide variety of topics. There was audience participation! It was very interesting and we all learned something…..or several somethings! Who knew that Sweden, smaller than 56 other countries in the world, had invented so many things now in use in our everyday lives? It was fun. Our presenter Carin Young was born and raised in Götene in the province of Västergötland, Sweden. After High School, or Gymnasiet, in Skara, Carin Young had the opportunity to go to the U. S. A. and live with the same family that her cousin had done. Carin Young stayed, studied, and received her B. S. in Mathematics from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis. Before completing her Masters she met David Young (also a VASA member) and they married. They have two daughters who Carin successfully educated at home through High School. For the last seven years, she has worked at CTB / McGraw – Hall grading standardized tests. Thank you to Faye and John Bevelhimer for selling Svea Emporium Merchandise before and after the meeting. Tusen Tack to our refreshments host and hostesses: Faye and John Bevelhimer, Brenda Miller, and Ulla Williams; it was a beautiful and colorful table, and included ham vegetable soup and an elegant jelly roll dessert.

When you are in Facebook, search for Scandinavians in Indianapolis; the address is https://facebook.com/svea253, and our Facebook page manager is Amy Johnson, archaeoalj@gmail.com. We hope you will follow the posts on our Scandinavians in Indianapolis page, and “Like” it.

27 January 2015: The Fourth Tuesday Luncheon Group dined at the Castleton Grill, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Tack Så Mycket to Faye and John Bevelhimer for coordinating our monthly lunch outing to this Don Hall’s restaurant.

8 February 2015: The meeting was held at the Latvian Community Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. Rebecca Wiebke was initiated as a new member. She was born in Varberg, Sweden, is a high school senior, and is the daughter of member Ingrid Bagge Wiebke.

Rebecca Wiebke was initiated by Past Chairman John Bevelhimer, Chairman Jean Tygum, Vice Chairman Ulla Williams, and Chaplain Carol Atherton – Clarkson. We also welcomed guests, father and son, Glenn and Kevin Carlstrand, Sylvia Andrews (friend of Catherine Swanson), and an Honorary Member Paul W. Shogren, brother of Bucky Poppleton. Delegates were chosen for the 2015 District Convention: Chairman Jean Tygum, Master Of Ceremonies Dennis Danielson, Auditor Scott Clarkson, and Chaplain Carol Atherton – Clarkson. PDM Edward Hultgren, ADS Joella Hultgren, District Historian Iva Lynn, and District Chaplain Marvin Anderson will also attend the Convention as District Officers. Congratulations to all! The cultural program was “A Selection Of Popular Swedish Literature In English”, presented by our new Recording Secretary Brenda Miller. An avid reader, Brenda Miller has accumulated an interesting variety of Swedish fiction and nonfiction through exchanging favorite books with her unofficial “brother” (a former

9 exchange student) and his family in Stockholm, Sweden. With her literary horizons thus expanded, she wanted to share her favorites, a variety of Swedish fiction and non – fiction, and her program also included information about which books are prizewinners and bestsellers, who the most famous Swedish authors are, and where Americans can locate Swedish books in English. Handouts with the information including a long list of authors and titles of interest were available after the program, and those members not able to attend could obtain the handouts via email or at the next meeting. (left) Recording Secretary Brenda Miller presented the program on Swedish literature.

Brenda Miller presented the new idea of a “lending library” for our lodge, and is our new library administrator. The library will simply be a detailed list of Scandinavian books and who owns them. Refreshments were provided by Jean Bang, Carin Young, Susie and Mark Swanson, and Virginia Strand.

An outstanding fika!

Thanks to Susie and Mark Swanson for storing the Swedish Emporium merchandise, and to Faye and John Bevelhimer for selling the goods.

22 February 2015: Acclaimed Vocal Ensemble Performed A wonderful musical performance at the Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center on the University of Indianapolis campus (as part of the ongoing 20th anniversary season) was given by the "groundbreaking Swedish vocal ensemble" called THE REAL GROUP. The five singing Swedes are known for their innovative a cappella arrangements of jazz and pop tunes, and Nordic choral music. The Swedish quintet, The Real Group, is celebrating its own 30th anniversary and wrapping up a tour across the U. S. A. before returning to Europe in March 2015. The Real Group formed at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, Sweden, and has since released more than 20 albums and performed thousands of concerts worldwide. Its members, most of whom have been aboard since the group’s founding, are Emma Nilsdotter, Katarina Henryson, Anders Edenroth, Morten Vinther and Anders Jalkéus. They claim Bobby McFerrin as an influence and have drawn comparisons to the 1950s and 1960s jazz vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross, though they often surprise audiences with renditions of classic rock and contemporary pop tunes. More information on the group is available at www.therealgroup.se. Discounted and free tickets were available for students, seniors, faculty, and staff, and several enthusiastic lodge members attended. CDs were offered for sale. Ingrid Wiebke says, "They are a really good a cappella group and I have many CDs by them." In addition to the Sunday afternoon concert, The Real Group presented a two - hour workshop for University of Indianapolis students and local school choral groups on Friday, in the Ruth Lilly Performance Hall. Admission to the workshop was free and open to the public.

24 February 2015: The Fourth Tuesday Luncheon Group met at Big Mike’s Café, a favorite dining place of Susie and Mark Swanson.

Tusen tack to Faye and John Bevelhimer for coordinating our monthly lunch outing.

15 March 2015: The meeting scheduled for the first Sunday of the month was postponed because of a winter storm, so we met instead on the third Sunday at the Latvian Community Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Glenn Carlstrand was reinstated as a member by the team of: Past Chairman Charlotte Swenson, Master Of Ceremonies Dennis Danielson, Chairman Jean Tygum, Vice Chairman Ulla Williams, and Chaplain Carol Clarkson. (right) Glenn Carlstrand was reinstated as a member.

The program “SWEDISH SUMMERS

BY LAKE VÄTTERN” was presented by Annette Johansson, who shared numerous facts, beautiful memories and many pictures of her more than 25 happy summers in the south – central Sweden Lake Vättern area. Vättern is Sweden's second largest lake (by surface area) after Vänern, and the sixth largest lake in Europe. It is a long, finger - shaped body of fresh water in south central Sweden. The lake’s total surface area is about 1,912 square km (738 square miles). The deepest known point, located to the south of the island of Visingsö, is 128 meters (420 feet). The average depth is 41 meters (135 feet). The lake has a perimeter of about 642 km (399 miles). (left and below) Annette Johansson presented a program on Lake Vättern.

The name Vättern may be from “vatten”, Swedish for “the water”, or the name may derive from the archaic term “vätter”, meaning forest or lake spirits (per Wikipedia).

It is famous for the excellent quality of its pure and transparent water, and is possibly the most drinkable in the world. Vättern is known for the annual recreational cycling race Vätternrundan, which attracts 20,000 participants to finish the 300 km trip along the lakeshore. Tourist sport fishermen and vacationers may fish in the lake as long as they don’t use nets. The lake is also used for commercial fishing. Aided by power point pictures and video, we learned the histories of the old farm at Hovaskog, Ölmstad church, the scenic island of Visingsö, Visborg's Castle, and Brahehus. According to legend, a giant named Vist created Visingsö by throwing a lump of soil into the lake so his wife could use it to step over the lake. The Swedish Navy planted oak trees on the island in the 19th century to provide strategically important timber for future ship construction. The timber is now ready but no longer required for ship construction. Consequently,

10 Visingsö is partially covered by oak forests, the rest being farmland.

Annette Johansson is a mezzo soprano, sings in eight languages, and is a retired Professor of Voice from the University of Hawaii; she joined Svea # 253 in 2001. Tack så mycket for the refreshments prepared by David Duff, Andrea and Paul Halverson, Charlotte Swenson, and Jean Tygum. Thanks to Douglas Krantz for lingonberry preserves. The colorful Swedish table runner and some of the troll decorations belong to Ulla Williams; other trolls are Jean Tygum's and came originally from the troll collection of former Svea 253 Chairman Vic Olson.

(above) John Keith enjoys the smörgåsbord.

24 March 2015: Fourteen members of the Fourth Tuesday Luncheon Group met at Rolling In The Dough, in Speedway, Indiana. The restaurant is small, but they make their own pasta, which was quite good. They also offered sandwiches, soups, and salads. Check their website: rollinginthedoughmarket.com. Tusen tack to Faye and John Bevelhimer for coordinating our monthly lunch outing.

Joella D. Hultgren

LINDE # 492 New Berlin, Wisconsin 17 January 2015: The auditors met for their annual meeting at the home of Liza and Rolf Ekstrand in New Berlin, Wisconsin.

22 February 2015: A business meeting was held at Christ The Victor Lutheran Church in New Berlin, Wisconsin. The Installation of Officers for 2015 was postponed until the March meeting. Amanda Robison was accepted as a new member; she is the new editor of the Vasa Star, Assistant Editor of the Nordstjernan, and has played the piano for the Skansen Children’s Group. Amanda Robison played piano at the 2014 Lucia Fest at Whitnall Park.

delegate to the convention. She met with the other college students that were in attendance. When she got back to Valparaiso University, she immediately began the process to see who was interested in Vasa and all Vasa had to offer. Ashley LeBlanc also met with the University staff, who helped her get through the process of starting an arm of Linde Lodge No. 492. The club was approved and they are having their first meeting very soon. There are close to 10 students involved at the University and our officers of Linde are working with her on this end. We commend her for her tenacity to get this off the ground. SKOL is planning a Kubb team to have friendly competitive games with other lodges and clubs in the area.

They have a movie night planned where they will show a Swedish theme movie. The list is growing! Please give them all the encouragement you can! They deserve it!

25 March 2015: The Finnish American Society held its annual pasty dinner following its March meeting. Attendees could purchase a pasty dinner and / or purchase parbaked pasties to take home.

Entertainment was provided by Milwaukee Festival Brass. Thanks to Linda Mayo for the information.

29 March 2015: Installation of Officers for 2015 was held at Christ The Victor Lutheran Church. The following officers were installed by District Deputy David Tollin: Chairman, Liza Ekstrand; Past Chairman, Brent Erickson; Vice Chairman, Brent Erickson; Recording Secretary, Marge Gruel; Treasurer, Marianne Ekstrand; Financial Secretary, Jan Kamholtz; Cultural Leaders, Susanna and Cris Rosario; Newsletter Editors, Marge Gruel and Liza Ekstrand; and Sunshine Committee, Susanna Rosario. There was a report on the Birkebeiner Race results, and a presentation about Famous Scandinavian Architecture and Design. This was a Soup Supper Social, and members brought their favorite soup to share. contributor: Liza Ekstrand

SATELLITE # 661 Kalamazoo, Michigan 13 December 2014: We are grateful to our member Heather Ruser Putt for the fine job coordinating the beautiful Lucia program last month at Lord Of Life Lutheran Church in Portage, Michigan.

Playing the part of Saint Lucia was Maggie Swafford, daughter of Sarah Swafford and granddaughter of our member Connie Douglas. (left) Lucia for 2014 was Maggie Swafford.

(left) Amanda Robison is the editor of the Vasa Star.

Delegates for the 2015 District Convention in Kalamazoo, Michigan were selected: Ashley LeBlanc, Jan Kamholtz, Marge Gruel, and Susanna Rosario will represent our lodge. A social followed with coffee and baked goods contributed by the members.

There is an update on our newest arm of our lodge --- SKOL! At the convention last year, the delegates were given a challenge to reach all the young college age students and keep them active wherever they were. Ashley LeBlanc, granddaughter of Marge Gruel, was a

(right): Heather Putt, Maggie Swafford, Maggie’s mother Sarah Swafford, and Connie Douglas.

Here is some additional interesting information: Maggie is a great - great - granddaughter of David F. and Louise Carlson, founders of Satellite Lodge #661!

Also, Maggie Swafford’s great uncle, David S. Carlson, was District

11 Master of VASA Order of America New Jersey No. 6! Maggie Swafford is a sophomore at Loy Norrix High School, speaks a little Swedish, and once visited Sweden when she was very young.

Maggie Swafford also plays on the Loy Norrix High School Lacrosse team. Members were invited to bring cookies, light snacks, treats, or finger food for the refreshments. ( right) Gena and Bill Baldwin enjoyed food and fellowship after the Lucia program.

Drinks were provided, including Glögg and coffee.

Holly Jensen and Roger Drong made the Glögg.

Some members brought Scandinavian Jul decorations, and Karin Forsblad and Roger Drong prepared Julgranskarameller.

7 January 2015: A convention planning meeting was held in the Lounge Room at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Our lodge is hosting the next District Convention, which occurs in May, 2015. We began formal preparations and anyone interested in learning more or offering any assistance was invited to attend.

28 January 2015: A convention planning meeting took place in the Lounge Room at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Among other things, we discussed menu selections at the host hotel.

11 February 2015: All lodge members were invited to the planning meeting held in the Lounge Room at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We are preparing an official and attractive program book, which will be made available to all delegates and attendees at the District Convention. We will have ample space available for advertising and special greetings within the program.

25 February 2015: Another convention planning meeting was held in the Lounge Room at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. All members were invited to attend and to offer assistance with the preparations.

1 March 2015: The regular meeting was held in the Fellowship Hall at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The officers for 2015 were formally installed at this meeting.

Member Janis Forsberg presented the program related to her most recent trip to Sweden. Refreshments were pea soup and pancakes.

Members contributed pots of pea soup and / or the small Swedish pancakes; thank you Roger Drong for coordinating the meal. Table service and beverages were provided by the lodge.

18 March 2015: Another convention planning meeting was held at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

22 March 2015: This Sunday afternoon our Satellite Lodge District convention planning committee met (7 of us total) at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

We assembled our mailings, which go to all VASA District member households. The mailings include 2 each “drawing” ticket booklets with an invitation to make a voluntary contribution. The total mailing numbered nearly 800. That was a big effort and we are extremely appreciative that DSCYC Lynda Smith (Nordik Folk #761), assisted with providing us all the ticket booklets when the District Board met in Kalamazoo, Michigan in February 2015.

24 March 2015: We’ve recently heard from Linda Tjernlund, chairperson at Joe Harbor Lodge # 534 (Benton Harbor / Saint Joseph, Michigan). They have offered to help us with the District convention. Carol Olson and David Runstrom were glad to visit Joe Harbor # 534’s monthly meeting at Saron Lutheran Church in Saint Joseph, Michigan, to update them about preparations being made for the May 2015 District convention. It was very beneficial for everyone. We were encouraged to hear they want to assist us.

25 March 2015: At this convention planning meeting, we focused on the letter and tri - fold informational document which goes to all convention delegates and District Officers. contributor: David Runstrom, Newsletter Editor

BISHOP HILL # 683 Bishop Hill, Illinois 6 December 2014: We held our Christmas Smörgåsbord in the Colony School. Around 90 people were in attendance. The evening started off with a Swedish prayer given by Morris Nelson. All enjoyed the Smörgåsbord food: Swedish meatballs, potato sausage, lutfisk, boiled potatoes, pickled herring, rice pudding, custard, and many other Swedish dishes. Santa made his visit after the meal handing out candy and oranges to all the good children (young and old). Next we had our Lucia Program. (left) Jennalynn Cisna Jennalynn Cisna was our Lucia; she is 13 years old and the daughter of Shawn and Lisa Cisna, and lives in rural Galva, Illinois. Jennalynn Cisna is a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she is active in the Handbell Choir, Voice Choir, and Youth Group.

Jennalynn Cisna is a 4 – H member, and a member of a Horse bowl team.

She enjoys playing piano, organ, and guitar.

Next we sang Christmas songs with Shawn Cisna at the piano. Among our guests were officers from the Vasa National Archives, and past and current officers of District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8, with their spouses: PGM / VNA President / PDM William Lundquist and PDM Sheila Lundquist, VNA Vice President / PDM Thomas Cleveland and DM Susan Cleveland, VNA Executive Board Member / PDM Sten Hult and DS Nancy Hult, and DEBM Gene Kiesel and Dawn Kiesel. The night ended with a raffle; we had many happy winners.

25 January 2015: The meeting was held at the VASA National Archives in Bishop Hill, Illinois, and the officers for 2015 were installed: Chairman, Jeff Anderson; Past Chairman, Rollie Krause;

12 Vice Chairman, Randy Anderson; Recording Secretary, Judy Anderson; Financial Secretary, Dianne Lindbom; Assistant Financial Secretary, Denise Menken; Treasurer, Roger Anderson; Master Of Ceremonies, Karl Johnson; Assistant Master Of Ceremonies, Lou Lourdeau; Co - Cultural Leaders, Sue Schulz and Janene Lourdeau; Chaplin, Carol Krause; Auditors: Mary Bjorling (1 year), Eldon Menken (2 years), and Cheryl Dowell (3 years); Trustees: Rollie Krause (1 year), Randy Anderson (2 years), and Mary Ann Spiegel (3 years); Historian, Joel Bjorling; Color And Banner Bearers, Harlan Nelson and Dale Spiegel; Guard, Warren Schulz; Cheer Chairman, Helen Anderson; Nominating Committee: Jeff Anderson (1 year), Karl Johnson (2 years), and Sally Nelson (3 years); VASA Archives Representative, Viktoria Almgren; VASA Star Reporter, Jeff Anderson; and Correspondent To Sweden, Viktoria Almgren. The refreshment committee included: Carol and Rollie Krause (chairmen); Mary Bjorling; and Mary Ann and Dale Spiegel.

22 February 2015: The meeting was held at the VASA National Archives in Bishop Hill, Illinois. Delegates were elected for the 2015 Convention of District Lodge Lake Michigan # 8. The Cultural Program was presented by Vickie Massey on her trip. The refreshment committee included: Sally and Harlan Nelson (chairmen); Eva and Harold Harland; and Nan and Russ Swanson.

27 March 2015: The meeting was held at the Colony School in Bishop Hill, Illinois, and we celebrated the 47th Anniversary of the lodge with a potluck meal and Swedish pancakes. Members brought delicious dishes to share. The program was a Variety Show with Jani Tiska and Dick Wells. The refreshment committee included: Cathy and Karl Johnson (chairmen); Jeff Anderson; Sue and Randy Anderson; and Marie and Michael Stravsbaugh. submitted by Jeff Anderson, Chairman

VIKING # 730 Flint, Michigan 10 January 2015: A planning meeting was held at the home of Dee and Ron Carlson. Everyone was invited to attend and give input.

This was a potluck meal and members brought dishes to share.

8 March 2015: A dinner and meeting took place at Italia Gardens in Flint, Michigan. Members chose meals from the menu. contributor: Debra LaLonde

story and how Lucia came to be a symbol for Sweden. Then the singers sang songs in English and Swedish.

The entrance and performance of songs in Swedish was done by candlelight, after which we all joined in a sing – a – long of some traditional Christmas carols, which were printed in a program placed on every seat.

Everyone enjoyed the program. The singers returned for pictures and introductions, followed by wonderful cookies baked by Cindy Schumerth, served with a tasty punch. The entire ceremony was beautiful, and in appreciation Chairman Dotty Juengst gave each girl a carved wooden Dala horse.

We very much appreciated Annika Osell sharing her gift of singing with us and the six students for adding their singing skills. Thanks also to the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for the fully decorated Christmas tree with gifts around the tree at the back of the room, and all the other Christmas decorations everywhere else.

A special thanks to Cindy Schumerth for making this Lucia pageant so successful and moving, and for all the work she did. Thanks to Sharilyn Osell and Maria Szymanski for all the work they donated to make this a special evening.

Following refreshments of the Saint Lucia Celebration, a business meeting was held. Chairman Dotty Juengst reported that all our members have renewed for 2015. The slate of officers presented for the election was as follows: Chairman, Fred Juengst; Vice Chairman, Dennis Miller; Recording Secretary, Maryl Hitchcock; Financial Secretary and Membership Chairman, Dotty Juengst; Treasurer, Cindy Schumerth; Cultural Leader, Nancy Suennen; Inner Guard, Diana Adzima; Chaplain, Vivian Stewart; Posten Editor, James Sucha; and Outer Guard, Michael Osell. The slate was accepted unanimously.

13 December 2014: Christmas Smörgåsbord Fun At Juengst’s Home! The annual adult Vasa Lodge Christmas Party was hosted by Dotty and Fred Juengst at their home in Schimtt Park, Wisconsin.

Fun and food were enjoyed by all who attended. Dr. Michael Osell even tuned up Dotty Juengst’s harpsichord so we could play Swedish music from an old red Lutheran hymnal (that many of us in our lodge used growing up), which contains many Swedish carols and hymns.

Many of us hung out afterwards in the kitchen with the candlelight from the Swedish angel chime that Beckett Miller lit.

18 January 2015: The second annual New Year’s Brunch / Luncheon was held at Village Grille in Allouez, Wisconsin. It was a

LINDGREN # 754 Green Bay, Wisconsin 2 December 2014: Sankta Lucia Celebration A Success! Our annual Saint Lucia Day celebration for 2014 was held at the renovated Aging and Disability Resource Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The remodeling removed the kitchen from the back of the room and now the room is much better for the singers and the audience. At the rear of our room were two rooms which allowed the singers a convenient place to change into costume and practice, and allowed a perfect start for the procession to the stage. We were treated to a very moving Lucia Pageant. Cindy Schumerth made arrangements for the choral program, furnished the homemade Christmas treats, and brought the special Swedish items needed for the candlelight ceremony, such as a small Christmas tree shaped object with white lights at center stage. This prop backlit the singers and created a wonderful atmosphere. Singing was furnished by Annika Osell who was Lucia, and the following girls: Zoe Wenholz, Bridget Stillwell, Kayla Mikalski, Molly Grass Deleney, Margaret Deleney, and Hannah Warden. Annika Osell sung the procession Sankta Lucia song in Swedish, and really made the production extra special with her amazing voice that has moved us over the years. The program began with Annika Osell leading the six singers who all walked slowly from the back to the front of the audience of nearly 20 people. After the Sankta Lucia song, Zoe Wenholz read the Lucia

(above) James Sucha and lodge members

13 success, with 20 people attending including 5 new people. This was a great time to socialize and enjoy a wonderful brunch together. We wanted to use this time to find some new people interested in joining our lodge, and members were free to invite anyone they thought may be interested in joining Vasa, to meet the group, and learn about our Lodge and activities. The Village Grill expertly prepared all the tasty food on the buffet proving its well - known reputation as one of the best Sunday Buffets in the Green Bay, Wisconsin area.

Most of us chose the buffet with many tasty choices of potatoes, sausages, bacon, egg dishes, waffles, pastries, fruits, and sauces. The buffet added to the very social atmosphere and we enjoyed many conversations as we waited in line to choose our food. There was a short business meeting and time for prospective members to ask questions and receive membership applications. The lodge covered the cost of the brunch. After eating we enjoyed learning more about each person attending the meeting. As we went around the table, each person gave us their name and added a few comments about themselves. The comments varied but were always informative, and helped us get to know more about folks interested in Scandinavian and Swedish culture. Danielle Schumerth gave her name and comments in Swedish and then translated her statement into English.

Some of our guests expressed interest in joining our group and have membership applications, and one joined. Our new member Linda Surowiec brought along some Swedish weaving she made as a “show and tell”. The first weaving was a table runner using multicolor yarn on dark gold Monk’s cloth. The second was also a table runner using dark Swedish blue yarn on an off – white Monk’s cloth. Thank you to new member Linda Surowiec! The “show and tell” set off many lively discussions following our short unofficial business meeting.

(above) Linda Surowiec We all enjoyed this luncheon meeting and the social time we had after the meal.

WE HAVE A NEW FACEBOOK GROUP PAGE! It is “Vasa Lindgren Lodge 754”. Check it our and “like” and join it! Members will be able to post items related to our lodge, and browse what is happening with members or events we have.

3 February 2015: A regular meeting was held at the renovated ADRC (Brown County Aging and Disability Resource Center) in Green Bay, Wisconsin. We welcomed guest Bob Olson. New member Linda Surowiec was initiated. WELCOME! Everyone was invited to attend and give input to help us plan for future meetings (especially for the next three months), programs, and activities. The Pea Soup and Pancake dinner will be held on April 14, 2015. One program may be about Swedish weaving, presented by Linda Surowiec. New events are welcome! We now have a larger storage spot and can leave our supplies and meeting materials in this locker and Cindy Schumerth will take care of the storage locker and supplies. We discussed how to become more active with the DePere Sister City group, and might hear their program on their visit to Sweden last year. This meeting was a great time to start planning for some special event to celebrate the 20th Anniversary as a Vasa Lodge. Our charter was dated October 14, 1995 so we felt something in October 2015 to celebrate this anniversary would be in order. At this time the general feeling was that we should have a dinner with a speaker. It might be nice to have a display with Swedish or Scandinavian objects collected by members and their families. We

will invite others to join in the celebration and try to get the press to cover our event. Michael Osell offered to chair the Anniversary Committee and Danielle Schumerth and Nancy Suennen offered to serve on the committee. Nancy Suennen gave a presentation about Bishop Hill, Illinois, and we enjoyed a social time with refreshment treats brought by Diana Adzima and Dotty Juengst.

Thank you to the guests at our January 2015 luncheon who expressed interest in joining our lodge.

3 March 2015: The meeting was held at the ADRC (Brown County Aging and Disability Resource Center) in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Cindy Schumerth opened the meeting room, supplied the treat, and brought the coffee pot. contributors: Fred Juengst and James Eklund Sucha

JUBILEUM # 755 Madison, Wisconsin 11 January 2015: Our monthly meeting featured the Installation of our 2015 officers by District Deputy Liza Ekstrand from Linde Lodge #492. Our new lodge chairman is Robert Merrill. The program was an overview of famous Swedes with the research and presentation done by individual members. The participation was outstanding with about a dozen members sharing their research! (left) Past Chairman Gunnard Swanson and new Chairman Robert Merrill. (below): Tracy Melin, Past Chairman Gunnard Swanson, Gunilla Rubasch, Kajsa Burling, Chairman Robert Merrill, District Deputy Liza Ekstrand, Richard Lindgren, and Marshall Berg.

8 February 2015: Gunnard Swanson presented an interesting program which was an overview of the most important Norse gods in ancient Scandinavian culture. He connected many of these Norse gods to characters, objects, and programs in the modern era. One example is that many characters in the Marvel Comics series came from Norse mythology. Also, some military ships are named for Norse gods. Characters in contemporary literature also contain references to Norse gods. His presentation showed that Scandinavian mythology is still relevant in modern Western culture.

8 March 2015: Wesley Hanson gave a presentation entitled, "Swedish Immigrant Boy Does Good: The Story of Granite Mining in New Hampshire”. He spoke about John Swenson, a Swedish immigrant who founded Swenson Granite Works in Concord, New Hampshire in 1883. His company provided granite to many large

14 projects nationwide, including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Library of Congress. The company is still in business today. submitted by Tracy Melin, Historian

NORDIK FOLK # 761 Munster, Indiana

12 January 2015: The Genealogy and DNA workshop met at the home of Herb and Lynda Smith in Munster, Indiana.

19 January 2015: The first lodge meeting of the year was held at Ridge United Methodist Church in Munster, Indiana. Elections were held, committee sign – ups were available, and members planned more FUN. The officers for 2015 are: Chairman, Timothy Ogrentz; Vice Chairman, Herbert Smith; Treasurer, Beth Raddatz; Financial Secretary, Jean Ogrentz; Assistant Financial Secretary, Emily Pearson; Recording Secretary, Linnea Ogrentz; Assistant Recording Secretary, Michelle Westlund; Master Of Ceremonies, Fred Raddatz; Assistant Master Of Ceremonies, Harrison Ogrentz; Cultural Leader, Lynda Smith; Chaplain, Janice Tomky; Outer Guard, Les Lesko; Inner Guard, Ingrid Lesko; Lodge Historian, Michelle Westlund; Trustees: Lisa Pearson (Chairman, 3 years), Steve Westlund (2 years), and Phyllis Kalajian (1 year); and Auditors: Timothy Ogrentz (Chairman, 3 years), Jean Ogrentz (2 years), and Herbert Smith (1 year). Recording Secretary Linnea Ogrentz reported that, in 2014, “it seemed that the theme, not only of our local lodge but the District and Grand Lodge as well, was FUN! We branched out into diverse activities such as Genealogy, history, Scandinavian crafts, Scandinavian Film, and Kubb. We hope to continue branching out and offering more rich cultural experiences in 2015.” Some suggestions were a road trip to Wisconsin to see a Kubb Tournament, a trip to the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois to see the Viking North American Tour, and field trips to Andersonville, Bishop Hill, or the Swenson Swedish Immigration Center at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. Shelly Westlund thanked Mike Pearson Sr. for creating the unofficial Vasa Online Discussion Group. Vasa Members want to be heard. Many members expressed their agreement, and agreed that the amount of information on the discussion group is invaluable. We discussed some of the information there, the Old Age And Benefit Fund (OA&B Fund), the Archives, and the dues increase. We also discussed membership and the need for VASA to keep taking steps forward.

3 February 2015: The next two Viking Lectures were shown and discussed at the Munster Branch Public Library in Munster, Indiana.

Coffee and doughnuts were served.

9 February 2015: The Genealogy and DNA workshop met with leader Herb Smith at Ridge United Methodist Church in Munster, Indiana. Participants were invited to bring questions about DNA and “brick walls”. All friends and nationalities are welcome to join the group.

15 February 2015: We hosted our annual Installation Potluck Dinner held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, in Munster, Indiana. It was a great success, and we welcomed our new and old officers. Tim Ogrentz is our new Chairman and looks forward to a successful year where he can challenge our lodge to grow. Our

monthly meetings are well attended and we share a real anticipation of future events. The lodge provided chicken and paper products, and members brought side dishes or desserts to share including: rolls and butter, vegetable trays, lettuce salad and dressing, apple / pea salad, cucumber salad, deviled eggs, rödbeta salad, fruit salad, red cabbage, meatballs, scalloped potatoes, cheese, brownies, rice pudding and lingonberry jam, éclair cake, other desserts, and coffee.

(above) seated: Tim Ogrentz, Chairman standing: Herbert Smith, Vice Chairman; Lisa Pearson, Chairman of the Trustees (3 years); Fred Raddatz, Master of Ceremonies; Jean Ogrentz, Financial Secretary; Janice Tomky, Chaplain; Beth Raddatz, Treasurer; Harry Ogrentz, Assistant Master of Ceremonies; Lynda Smith, Past Chairman and Children's Club Supervisor; and Mike Pearson Jr., Past Chairman.

16 February 2015: The meeting was held at Ridge United Methodist Church, in Munster, Indiana. Upcoming events were discussed including the Nordic Faire scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2015 from 11 am until 4 pm, to be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church in their south hall. We plan the following: Games - inside and outside (weather permitting) for the young and young at heart; Food - Swedish pancakes, open faced sandwiches, baked goodies and of course – COFFEE; Displays - Various ethnic clubs and groups are welcome to display information about their country / group (and to sell small items if they would like to do so); Crafts - We have some woodcarvers and stitchers (hardanger, embroidery, knit, and crochet) and painters (rosemaling and dalamålning), and have encouraged them to have demonstrations and are allowing them to sell items of their choosing; and Entertainment - We have some talented folks in our group and we will have our Nordikids perform throughout the event - sometimes the entire group, sometimes a smaller group or a duet. In addition to old traditional songs (mostly in Swedish) we will do some Pippi and ABBA music. Our young ones will do some folk dances. We would love to have any music, or dancing, or displays from other Nordic groups. It would be such fun to have some Finnish participation and of course, Dans Norden is a delight for everyone.

Michael Pearson Sr., one of our members, will have a display of Viking artifacts and reproductions. The Viking show is so popular on the History Channel, and Phyllis Kalajian from our lodge is selling Viking jewelry (researched and inspired), and some of her items can be seen on the actual TV show!!! Also, the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois is hosting a special exhibit about Vikings from February 27, 2015 through October 4, 2015 --- so this might be something to consider if you want to make a weekend of it (we are only 30 minutes from the Field Museum).

3 March 2015: The next two Viking Lectures were shown and discussed at the Munster Branch Public Library in Munster, Indiana.

Coffee and refreshments were served.

9 March 2015: The Genealogy and DNA workshop met with leader Herb Smith at Ridge United Methodist Church in Munster, Indiana.

A special offer for this Monday was a FREE site for genealogy. Go to: www.findmypast.com. This might be a fun way to do some searching. Herb Smith had information on new updates about DNA,

15 Ancestry, and other Genealogy news. As always, participants are encouraged to bring their 'story' to share and their 'brick walls' too.

16 March 2015: Spring 2015. What a pleasant thing to say. I am sure all of our lodges are happy to say that winter is finally over and we are looking forward to the activities of the coming season. The monthly meeting was held at Ridge United Methodist Church, in Munster, Indiana. Adding to our agenda, Annelise Nelson met earlier in the evening with adults and is teaching a Swedish language conversation / mini – lesson class ½ hour before our monthly meetings in the small classroom. We are so fortunate to have so many talented members within our lodge who are willing to share their expertise. We encourage all lodges to seek out the talent that they have and help to enrich our membership.

In May we are planning something new. It is our Nordik Faire. We have rented a church in the community and are inviting all who wish to attend for a day of celebrating Scandinavian cultures. Many plans for demonstrations and performances are being made. There will be food, games, crafts, and music, dancing and prize drawings. There will be Culture tables with demonstrations of woodcarving, rosemaling, nalbinding, knitting and the showing of Viking artifacts as well as representatives with info from many of the Scandinavian countries. Crafts will be sold, and there will be “make and take” craft tables. Some of our favorite food will be served such as Swedish Pancakes with lingon, Swedish meatballs, and Scandinavian style open - faced sandwiches. Our Nordikids and a Nordic Dancing group will be performing. Also scout leaders have a chance to fulfill some of the requirements for badges in their scout groups. Plans are ongoing. Thanks to Phyllis Kalajian for organizing the cultural tables and to Lynda Smith for arranging the entertainment and the logistics of this “Faire”! This is a big event for our lodge and we are hoping to attract new members and keep our current members encouraged in their Scandinavian culture.

The Fundraising, Marketing, Social, and Membership committees will begin meeting separately prior to next month’s business meeting.

Their chairmen will give reports; they can meet online, or any time prior to the business meeting. Each chairman will be in charge of setting the time and place of the meetings. We sang “Du Gamla Du Fria” ”Ja Ma Hon Leva” in honor of Jean Oak’s 80th birthday.

Following this meeting, we heard the guest speaker, a local youth and friend of Steve and Shelly Westlund, who gave a presentation / photographic tour of Norway and his personal experiences of European travels. Looking forward, our annual convention will be held in Kalamazoo Michigan. These are important occasions that bring us together as a community of lodges with new and old ideas to help us move forward for the generations of Vasa members to follow.

Remember our schedule (unless otherwise noted): 30 March 2015: A Nordic Faire committee meeting was held to start our planning countdown for the upcoming Nordic Faire on May 2, 2015. We need good ideas, suggestions, and helpers to make the day a success --- and planning is KEY. Everyone on the Social Committee, and volunteers to help with the Nordic Faire, were encouraged to attend to share ideas and talents with us. On the agenda: planning the food, drawings, booths, room layout, activities schedule, maps and print outs, and Marketing campaign.

Latest List of Culture Tables for Nordic Faire (as of March 31) Below is a list of the Culture tables we currently have lined up for our fantastic Nordic Faire on May 2, 2015. If anyone has any other ideas, please feel free to email them to Phyllis Kalajian at phylpete@yahoo.com. Send your ideas even if you don't think you can "man" the table, but "manning" a culture table would guarantee you a seat for all the wonderful entertainment we have lined up. The culture tables will be around the perimeter of the room with a clear

view of the stage. And you can eat at your table. So maybe if a family would like to have a culture table, that would work great.

What a fun bonding experience. Some culture table ideas NOT listed below are: pepparkakor table, Maypole table, woven paper hearts table, Easter customs table, Christmas customs table, Santa Lucia table (maybe with a live Santa Lucia queen), tomte table, or troll table.

With each culture table you would need to have a demonstration and / or a small poster with the information displayed on it, an example or possibly a little game or activity, and a small information hand - out sheet. The church will supply white tablecloths but to "jazz" up the table, you could use a colored table runner or maybe flags.

Finally, here are the culture tables we have, so far: Sons of Norway (from Montgomery, Illinois and from Chesterton, Indiana) - they will have information about their lodges and sell some hand - knitted items and possibly some Scandinavian items from a Scandinavian shop, Julhus --- Barb Johnson Rosemaling demonstration - information and items for sale --- Lynn Maxson Hardanger stitching demonstration --- Linda Tylk Wood carver and Stone carver --- Sons of Norway Viking artifacts --- Michael and Lisa Pearson family Nordik Folk Craft store --- Linnea Ogrentz Krumkake Waffle Cookie Demonstration ---Phyllis Kalajian and her sister Kubb Game and Viking Gameboard information and demonstration --- Tim and Harry Ogrentz Genealogy and Viking Lecture Series information --- Herb Smith Nordik Folk information --- Linnea Ogrentz Nordikreations Jewelry --- Phyllis Kalajian Finnish Star Making --- Shelly Westlund Coloring Table --- Jaylynn and Ashlynn Sinwelski Danish club information --- Linda Steffensen Runic Stamps Church activity games Dala Horse Info and Sucker Game --- Tonia Tomky Scout Station --- Scout leaders This is such a great opportunity to work together, get to know one another, and to bond in friendship. This event will be enriching for our lodge and for all the 'friends' who may want to join us. We have a "vision".

Thank you, Phyllis Kalajian Viking Lecture Series: 1st Tuesday of the month, at Munster Branch Public Library, in Munster, Indiana.

Genealogy: 2nd Monday of the month, at Ridge United Methodist Church, in Munster, Indiana. Herb Smith teaches our genealogy class and is well versed in helping members search for their roots.

Business Meetings: 3rd Monday of the month, at Ridge United Methodist Church, in Munster, Indiana. contributors: Phyllis Kalajian, Jean Ogrentz, Linnea Ogrentz, and Lynda Smith

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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/ Remember: Our Youth are Our Future!

In Truth and Unity, Lynda Ann Smith District Lodge # 8 Youth Supervisor / Grand Lodge Youth Director

NORDIKIDS # 208 9 February 2015: NORDIKIDS Scandinavian Kids Group started their winter and spring season with “Opening Night” at Ridge United Methodist Church in Munster, Indiana.

This Scandinavian youth organization is dedicated to preserve and share the culture of the Nordic countries.

Members learn Swedish language, music, songs, folk dances, culture, crafts, traditions, customs, culinary specialties, and celebrate the holidays of these countries.

Youth ages 3 years to 20+ years participate with age appropriate activities for different groups.

Family participation is a priority. Sponsored by Vasa Order of America and District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8, and supported by a modest tuition per family, this group of youngsters enjoys educational opportunities and performance opportunities throughout the Region. They will meet and learn every Monday evening until April 27, 2015.

Coming up this season, an ethnic fair and Pancake Breakfast / Lunch are being planned for May 2, 2015.

Also, a field trip is in the planning stage to attend the VIKING exhibit, coming soon to the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois. Weekly classes take place from 6:30 pm - 8:15 pm each Monday evening in Munster, Indiana. All youth interested in exploring Scandinavian / Nordic culture are welcome to participate. This was an opportunity to meet the teachers, re – connect with friends, make NEW friends, and learn the plans for the upcoming season. New families are welcome! Invite your friends to join us. For information, contact Lynda Smith, coordinator by phone: 219 – 923 - 8777 or email: lamsmith@hotmail.com 16 March 2015: NORDIKIDS met at Ridge United Methodist Church in Munster, Indiana. Starting with a language lesson with Annelise Nelson, they then went outdoors to play Kubb, the ancient Viking game. The children joined the Nordik Folk # 761 members afterwards to hear the guest speaker who gave a presentation about his personal experiences of European travels.

Our Nordikids enjoyed seeing many slides of Norway especially since “Frozen” was their theme at their last singing performance. It should give them something to consider as they get older and go off to school --- foreign travel is always an exciting concept. contributors: Jean Ogrentz and Lynda Smith Nordikids Musiklubb: Nordikids is a not – for – profit educational group supported in part by Vasa Order Of America, and in part by fundraising. We strive to promote the culture of Scandinavia and all funds received are used to pay for educational opportunities for the children and to afford them with materials and experiences that will increase their knowledge of their rich cultural heritage. Who can join Nordikids? Our members range in age from 3 years to 21 years.

They are all from families interested in learning about the culture of the Nordic countries. Classes include: Swedish language instruction, choral singing, craft making, cultural field trips, and folk dancing. The meetings are Monday evenings, 6:30 pm to 8:15 pm, at Ridge United Methodist Church, in Munster, Indiana. Call 219 – 923 – 8777 for more information.

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

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Come celebrate with your family and friends at the

NORDIC FAIRE A celebration of the Scandinavian cultures – Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Finnish and Icelandic Sponsored by - Nordik Folk # 761 and Nordikids # 208 VASA Order of America “A Swedish American Fraternal Organization”

May 2, 2015 11am – 4pm at the Westminster Presbyterian Church 8955 Columbia Avenue, Munster, Indiana (east of Community Hospital) Scandinavian Food Games Crafts Music and Dancing Prize Drawings – Passport for “KIDS” Culture tables with demonstrations of woodcarving, hardanger, weaving, painting & more!

Admission: $5/Adult * $3/Child * (Food available for additional charge)*

Attention Scout Leaders!

A chance to fulfill some of the requirements for a Merit Badge, Belt Loop or a Legacy Badge (if applicable) "American Cultures" Merit Badge (Boy Scouts) "Language and Culture" Belt Loop (Cub Scouts) "Citizens - Celebrating Community" Legacy Badge (Brownie’s) Featuring food, customs and traditions from the Scandinavian countries Traditional Scandinavian Food *(Food available for additional charge)* Traditional Scandinavian music and dancing Culture tables with demonstrations, activities and games “Scout station” Come and celebrate with your fellow Scouts and your family at our NORDIC FAIRE! OR JUST COME AND HAVE FUN WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS All Scouts in UNIFORM will receive admission for $1 Questions? Call: 291 – 923 - 8777 (Lynda Smith) or email: lamsmith@hotmail.com

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VIKING EXHIBIT AT THE CHICAGO FIELD MUSEUM Vikings Invade The Field Museum Explore the Myth Beyond Scandinavia’s Famous Warriors What does the word Viking bring to mind? Ruthless warriors and merciless invaders? Or prosperous farmers, enterprising merchants, and caring families? Vikings, the latest exhibition at The Field Museum, explores the truth behind Scandinavia’s ancient—and infamous—seafaring raiders.

The Viking North American Tour comes to the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois, with the Viking Exhibit, which opened February 27, 2015 and runs through October 4, 2015.

The Field Museum’s presentation of Vikings is the only stop in the U. S. A. on an international tour. The exhibition was organized by the Swedish History Museum in Sweden, in partnership with Museums Partner in Austria. Major sponsors: Discover and Viking Cruises.

The exhibition transports visitors to the Viking Age (8th 11th centuries) brought to light through modern archaeological discoveries. Nearly 500 ancient artifacts— many never before seen outside of Scandinavia—reveal new insights into the legendary people characterized as heartless marauders.

Artifacts on display in the exhibition reveal glimpses into family and community, religion and rituals, travel and trade, aristocracy and slavery, and the roles of women.

The exhibition provides insight into the significance of Norse craftsmanship, the power of their mythology, and the symbolism of their ships. A highlight of the exhibition is the Krampmacken, a replica Viking ship from Sweden based on historical and archaeological sources.

The exhibition will also explore some of the misconceptions surrounding these early Scandinavians.

Though there is a Viking helmet replica in the exhibition, visitors won’t find any horned helmets on display. In fact, no Viking helmet has ever been discovered with horns; this image emerged in the 19th century, popularized by authors and artists who romanticized Norse culture. Another myth is that the Vikings called themselves “Vikings.” Generally, the people of early Scandinavia named themselves after the farm, village, or region in which they lived. The word “Viking,” derives from Old Norse, and meant a trade ship or a raid. During the Viking era, people were not always

out on these expeditions; most lived as farmers, merchants, and craftsmen.

Striking examples of Viking craftsmanship are on display including exquisitely wrought brooches, depictions of Norse gods, as well as gold and silver pendants—including the oldest known Scandinavian crucifix, highlighting the transition between Old Norse religious practices and Christianity. Viking Age swords and other weapons will also be on display, highlighting the Vikings’ exceptional metal working technologies.

Vikings features a number of interactive exhibits, allowing Museum visitors to take part in the excavation of a virtual boat grave, spell a name in runes, explore Norse mythology, and play an early Scandinavian board game.

Visitors can pick up an accurate replica of a Viking Age sword and test the weight and balance between handle and blade, discovering the skill it takes to master sword handling.

Vikings brings a new appreciation for the people remembered mainly for their plundering ways. And while raiding and pillaging were mainstays of their culture, Viking society was much more complex and multifaceted; Vikings were innovative explorers, traders, skilled craftsmen, successful merchants, and hard - working farmers. Like society today, no one thing defined the Vikings, and research continues to teach us how nuanced these northern people were.

Tickets to Vikings are included in both Discovery and All Access passes to the Museum. Special discounts are available for Chicago residents. Visit fieldmuseum.org for prices and to purchase tickets. Special rates available for tour operators and groups of 10 or more. Call our Group Sales office toll - free at 888.FIELD.85 (888.343.5385).

The Field Museum gratefully acknowledges the support of the Chicago Park District on behalf of the people of Chicago, Illinois.

It will be quite interesting. Phyllis Kalajian, of Nordik Folk # 761, announced that the museum gift shop will be selling her expertly handcrafted Viking jewelry. The gift shop chose a nice selection. Congratulations to Phyllis Kalajian!

Field Museum Public Relations media@fieldmuseum.org 312.665.7100

SONS OF NORWAY 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 December 13, 2014, and January 24, February 28, and March 28, 2015. A dinner will be held on April 25, 2015 Call (414) 321-2637 for future reservations.

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Scandinavian Park, Inc. NFP

VASA PARK South Elgin, Illinois Greetings from the Board of Directors and the members of Vasa Park. We are located on Route 31 on the edge of the Fox River in South Elgin, Illinois. We take great pride in the fact that we are a group that honors all five of the Scandinavian countries’ customs and traditions. Our group is comprised of people who care deeply about the future of this beautiful park and keeping our Scandinavian heritage alive.

I begin on a sad note as our previous President and co founder of Scandinavian Day, Walter Anthonsen, was called to his eternal rest on December 28, 2014. A celebration of his life will be held later in the season at the Park.

This season we began with our 12th Annual Dinner Dance and fundraiser, “Scandinavian Rhapsody”. It was held at the Avalon Banquets in Elk Grove, Illinois. The evening was filled with music provided by the Dave Kyrk Trio, wonderful food, lots of beautiful raffle prizes, and of course, dancing. Our dinner dance was wonderful!

Park Board members, and Vasa members and officers in our District, attended the official opening of the exhibit on March 18, 2015. We were very excited about this great cultural opportunity. We hope everyone will be able to come and see the exhibit, all of the artifacts, and the long ship sometime during its appearance in Chicago, Illinois.

More information may be obtained by visiting www.fieldmuseum.org.

On April 25, 2015, we will host Valborg Day. Everyone is welcome to come out to the Park and help us get it spruced up for the new season. Raking, planting, repair work, opening of the buildings, painting and many other things are on the agenda. No matter one’s physical abilities…..we have a chore for you. Lunch will be served. One thing for sure, we always have plenty of great food.

Our Midsommar event is scheduled for June 20, 2015.

More about this and other events will be coming up. We are looking forward to a wonderful season and hope that you can join us for some of our events. By the way, Scandinavia Day will be held on September 13, 2015 this year.

As we are a not – for - profit organization, we rely on our membership fees, fundraisers, rentals, and donations to keep us going. All work is done by our Board, interested members, and other people who love this Park. We are always looking for sponsorships and volunteers. Why not come out and see this beautiful place. If you haven’t been to the Park for a while, please come and see all of the improvements we have made and learn about the future of the Park.

Please check our Website: www.vasaparkil.com and our Facebook site: www.facebook.com/vasapark.il Don’t forget to “like” our site and keep up with the Park news.

Jackie Moline Secretary of the Board, Scandinavian Park, Inc., NFP

Saint Urho’s Day --- March 16

We are very excited to be one of the sponsors of a new exhibit being displayed at the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois. The Viking Exhibit “Passport To Scandinavia” will be at the Field Museum from February 27, 2015 until October 4, 2015, but Vasa Park was the featured host on Wednesday, March 18, 2015 – our “night at the Museum”.

Being one of the sponsors was exciting for us and we feel that more people would also learn about the mission and traditions of a local jewel, VASA PARK. Many of our

Don’t forget to celebrate Saint Urho’s Day on March 16. The legend of this imaginary saint was dreamed up in 1956 by a Finnish – American named Richard Mattson, an employee of Ketola’s Department Store in Virginia, Minnesota. Mr. Richard Mattson felt it wasn’t fair that the Irish had Saint Patrick, who cast the snakes out of Ireland and the Finns had no similar excuse to celebrate once a year.

Accordingly, Richard Mattson and a co – worker, Gene McCavic, wrote an “Ode To Saint Urho”, describing how Saint Urho cast the frogs out of Finland on May 24. But later, Saint Urho’s feast day was changed to March 16, the day before Saint Patrick’s Day, so that people could celebrate for two days in a row. And it was determined that Saint Urho had cast out not frogs, but grasshoppers, who were threatening the Finnish grape crop, used to make wine, of course. Saint Urho’s colors are purple and green (like grapes…..and grasshoppers).

We will always be grateful to Sophia Anderson, Svea # 253, for informing us about this important date.

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VASA POEMS VASA

The Swedish – American Historical Society

with co-sponsors SWEA and the Swedish – American Museum Invite you to a festive Spring Dinner Meeting

Variety Among Swedes in America Christine Kilstrom Bessemer # 203 January 7, 2015

GENEROSITY Given the chance; Encouraged by family; Not knowing what to expect; Embarked on a journey, Remembered by many, Over land and sea to Seek a new life In a land so different, That held a promise of wealth Yet never assured.

Featuring

Swedish and Swedish – American Music: Jenny Lind to ABBA

Saturday, April 18, 2015 at the Swedish – American Museum at 5211 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois.

TRUTH Trusting the stories Relayed by others, Unknowing the risks That may face them Here in this new land.

5:30 pm – Wine and Cheese Reception 6:00 pm – Dinner catered by Tre Kronor 7:00 pm – Program

UNITY United they became, Never giving up hope In what they could achieve Together as one group, Yearning to make this challenge work.

Christine Kilstrom Bessemer # 203 January 19, 2015

Presented by Dr. Anne – Charlotte Harvey Performers: Magnus Hillbo, Scott Uddenberg, Susan Nelson, Merula Quartet, Ingmari Wahlgren, and Catherine Buckley Werner.

The cost of the dinner and program is $40.00 per person.

Reservations must be made BY APRIL 13, 2015, with the Swedish – American Historical Society, 3225 West Foster Avenue, Box 48, Chicago, Illinois 60625 – 4816; E-mail: kmandersson@northpark.edu; or (773) 583 – 5722.

Payment may be made via check or credit card.

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SWEDISH CHOIR COMING TO THE CHICAGO AREA (the weekend after Easter) This is for all you music lovers out there --- an opportunity to hear a Swedish choir in the Chicago area the weekend after Easter.

This is a rare opportunity to hear music from our homeland.

The Believers is a 31 voice gospel choir from Sweden who will be in town for just a few days. The first opportunity is Friday, April 10, 2015, 7:00 pm at Saint Mark's Lutheran Church, 200 South Willie, in Mt. Prospect, Illinois. They will also be a part of all the services on Saturday and Sunday, April 11 and 12, 2015, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1225 East 2nd Street in Belvidere, Illinois.

The Believers’ music includes classic choral music, hymns, and spirituals. The choir has toured America seven times, has had four tours in Israel, and additional tours in Poland, Hungary, and Scandinavia. This choir comes from a music institute which is affiliated with the Luleå University of Technology –-- a world - class research and education school located about 190 miles south of the Arctic Circle in Sweden’s Far North. The Believers’ 2015 tour in Wisconsin and Illinois is sponsored by Shepherd’s Canyon Retreat, Inc., an Arizona ministry.

See the flier below for the concert information at Saint Mark's Lutheran Church. Some information is from the Immanuel Lutheran Church (Belvidere, Illinois) March 2015 Connections newsletter. Please inform your friends, family, and other groups. We can show them lots of support from the Swedish community here in the Chicago area.

Blessings for Easter!

NEW VALTHORNET DEADLINES The DEADLINES for submission of news articles and pictures for the Valthornet have changed slightly.

The deadline for the July 2015 issue is June 30, 2015.

The deadline is the last day of the month before the month of publication: 31 March, for the April issue [covering January, February, and March]; 30 June, for the July issue [covering April, May, and June]; 30 September, for the October issue [covering July, August, and September]; and 31 December, for the January issue [covering October, November, and December].

As usual, please send your articles and photographs to Joella Hultgren, Valthornet Editor via email at nodjehult@gmail.com or via USPS to 13650 Amblewind Place, Carmel, Indiana 46074 - 8227.

VASA STAR / VALTHORNET CIRCULATION LIST Some mail to District 8 members is returned as “undeliverable” because: (a) the person died, (b) the person is no longer a member, (c) the person moved to another address and the forwarding has expired, (d) there is no forwarding address, or (e) the person’s name has changed. The circulation list used for mailing is the same list used to mail the Grand Lodge Vasa Star and the District 8 Valthornet; each publication is mailed four times a year. Returned mail means 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 SHOULD 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 to report address changes and deletions to: Grand Secretary / Circulation Manager Joan Graham, 5838 San Jose Avenue, Richmond, California 94804; e-mail: vasajlg@aol.com or circulationvasastar@gmail.com.

Joella D. Hultgren Editor, Valthornet

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 page(s) than the USPS mailed version, because there is more news to report.

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IN MEMORY Frances LaVonne Wood – Bessemer No. 203 Frances LaVonne Wood, of Evergreen Park, Illinois, passed away on December 21, 2014.

Frances LaVonne Wood was born in 1935. She was the beloved wife of Cecil Wood for 58 years of marriage; the dear mother of Cecilia (James) O'Brien, James (Linda) Wood, Steven Wood, and Russell Wood; loving grandmother of Patrick (Sarah) O'Brien, Frances (Robert) Leach, Catherine, Jacqueline (Anton Minkalis, Fiancé), James O'Brien Jr. (Jessica); great - grandmother of 9; and fond aunt of many nieces and nephews. Frances LaVonne Wood joined VASA in 1990, and was a member of Bessemer No. 203, in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Interment was at Evergreen Cemetery.

C. Conrad Johnson – Brahe No. 245 C. Conrad Johnson, 110 years old, of Rockford, Illinois, died at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2014, in The Villa at PA Peterson Nursing Home after suffering a stroke last April. He previously lived in Peterson Meadows for 10 years.

Conrad Johnson was born January 19, 1904, in Kymbo, Sweden, the son of Oscar and Ida (Granstrom) Janson, and was one of 10 children. Conrad Johnson left Sweden in 1923 at the age of 19 years old, and worked as a carpenter and remodeler of homes in the Rockford, Illinois area. He married Walborg Lind in 1941, and later married Alice Anderson in 1990. Conrad Johnson was a member of several Swedish Clubs, including a lifetime member of Vasa Brahe Lodge # 245, a member of Svea Soner Chorus, and the Swedish Historical Society; he was also a long - standing member at Tabor Lutheran Church. He is survived by his nephew, Edward I. (Irene) Johnson of North Brunswick, New Jersey; several nieces and nephews; special friends Alf and Delores Forsberg, and LaVerne and Kathleen Larson. Conrad Johnson was predeceased by parents; 6 brothers; 3 sisters; and wives Walborg Lind and Alice Anderson. Memorial services were held at Tabor Lutheran Church, Rockford, Illinois, with the Reverend Jane McChesney officiating.

Burial was in Scandinavian Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Tabor Lutheran Church or Peterson Meadows, 6401 Newburg Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108.

Tribute to Sophia Ruth Lindahl Anderson, who died on December 12, 2014 Another great American couple is leaving us. Our lodge has been very fortunate over the years in having some truly wonderful couples. One special couple has been Dan and Sophia Anderson. They have been members for over thirty years.

They both have been so truly friendly and

interesting. Dan has a magnificent voice and I always looked forward to singing with him at Lucia. Both of them were active in our booths at the International Festival. They were married for more than fifty – four years and it was a good marriage, and they had three adorable children, Daniel, Linda Kay, and Dawn. Sophia has now gone to heaven and Dan may consider moving to Washington State.

We will dearly miss them both but we are very fortunate to have known them.

Earl Hurst, Svea # 253

1300 Years of Going A-Viking While the Viking era is usually confined to a small band of history, 793 to 1066 as one example, the people who became Swedes and the people in Sweden were adventurers (went a-viking) for 1300 years. (Since we are not 100% sure of the meaning of the word “Viking,” we can use here one of its possible meanings: to go a-viking meaning to go adventuring for territory and wealth.)

We can start this 1300-year period in the 500s and give it an ending of 1814.

There is no definite beginning for the period, because the early tribes were known to be migrating into and through Scandinavia even earlier than the 500s. However, it is becoming clearer with each new early archaeological find that the Vendel Period in Sweden, identified as 550 to 793, can certainly be included as part of the a-viking / adventuring phase of Swedish history. And while the Viking Period is said to end around 1000 or 1066 or 1100, depending on the rationale for terminating it, Sweden continued adventuring through the Middle Ages and beyond, until 1814.

The web site http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_wars_involving_ Sweden lists summarily major encounters that were initiated by Sweden or against Sweden and those in which Sweden chose to become involved. A great number of those were initiated to gain Sweden lands around the Baltic to establish trading posts and to deprive potential enemies of harbors from which to invade Sweden. Sweden ruled those territories benevolently, for the most part. (It would be quite an exercise to speculate how many individuals would not have died due to warfare over three centuries had Sweden prevailed at the Battle of Poltava, Ukraine, in 1709, and become the overseers of Eastern Europe and Russia.)

So for 1300 years, Swedes (and Danes and Norse) did not stay at home, but went in search of adventure, conquest, wealth, trade, and settlement.

They went a-viking. contributor: PDM Ed Hultgren

23

UPCOMING EVENTS

LOCAL LODGE CONTACTS Grand Lodge Convention 2018 – Hosted by District Lodge Golden Gate # 12, California District Lodge Lake Michigan No. 8 Annual Conventions 29 – 31 May 2015: Hosted by Satellite # 661, Kalamazoo, Michigan May 2016; Hosted by Viking # 730, Flint, Michigan

Siljan-Mora-Tuna # 134 Evergreen Park, Illinois Lisa Cianci Thor # 147 Channahon, Illinois Sandra Fletcher

4 February 1908 (708) 352 – 0042 kmlmc98@comcast.net 3 October 1908 (815) 458 – 0974 sandyfletcher2001@yahoo.com

Siljan-Mora-Tuna # 134 19 April 2015 – Regular Meeting; Italian meal by Lisa Cianci 19 July 2015 – Picnic at the Hult residence in Midlothian, Illinois 16 August 2015 – Regular Meeting; Sub sandwiches and Ice Cream 20 September 2015 – Swedish Bingo and Pizza Party 18 October 2015 – Hallowe’en Party and Soup Supper 29 November 2015 – Election of Officers for 2016; Christmas Party 17 January 2016 – Regular Meeting Kronan # 179 26 April 2015 – Spring Fling Lunch and Meeting; Bunco Party 17 May 2015 – Vacation Daze Lunch and Meeting; roots, travels, memories 16 August 2015 – Picnic Time Lunch and Meeting; special games 27 September 2015 – 105th Anniversary Lunch and Meeting; Bunco Party 25 October 2015 – Hallowe’en Party; Elect officers and plan for 2016 22 November 2015 – Holiday Party Celebration and Lucia, $5.00 Grab Bag Bessemer # 203 11 April 2015 – Easter Lunch / Meeting at Oak Lawn Hilton Brahe # 245 26 April 2015 – Meeting at Vasa Park, Rockford, Illinois Svea # 253 12 April 2015 –Barbershop Music’s Swedish Connection, by Marc Hagn 3 May 2015 - Hans Christian Anderson: A Fairytale Of Life, by June M. Clair 6 June 2015 – Swedish National Day / Svenska Nationaldagen - Luncheon 21 June 2015 – Midsommar Celebration and Pot Luck Meal 2 August 2015 – Kräftskiva Festival and Pot Luck Meal 13 September 2015 – VDM Michael Pearson, Sr. will exhibit his Viking artifacts 4 October 2015 – Thank You For The Music: A Tribute To ABBA, Doug Krantz 1 November 2015 – The Icelandic Horse, by Nancy Anderson 18 November 2015 to 22 November 2015 – Indianapolis International Festival Linde # 492 18 April 2015 – Carl Larsson Life and Works; Svenska Ting; Christ the Victor 16 May 2015 – Tove Jansson’s Moomin Troll and Swedish Bingo; Christ the Victor 19 September – 20 September 2015 - Lodge trip to Minneapolis, Minnesota Bishop Hill # 683 April 2015 – Valborg Celebration 22 May 2015 – Memorial Service and Cultural Program 26 June 2015 – Midsommar Celebration at Park and Colony School 23 August 2015 – Richmond Hills Theater, Geneseo.

25 September 2015 – Weiner Roast and Pot Luck; playing Kubb game 23 October 2015 – Crazy Hat Night; Bunko Night 20 November 2015 – Election of Officers; Dala Horses by Carol Curry

Linné # 153 South Bend, Indiana Judi Parmley Kronan # 179 Chicago, Illinois John Nygard Bessemer # 203 Oak Lawn, Illinois James Pelzman Brahe # 245 Rockford, Illinois Scott Johnson

20 September 1909 (574) 272 - 4625 jujiparm@peoplepc.com 6 September 1910 (847) 677 - 5181 jenygard@comcast.net 11 October 1911 (708) 423 – 4057 pelzman@aol.com 30 January 1913 (815) 601-3922 owlsforjoyce@gmail.com

Svea # 253 Indianapolis, Indiana Jean Tygum

29 May 1913 (317) 986 - 7064 jeantygum@aol.com

Nobel # 288 Moline, Illinois Linda Lootens

22 February 1914 (309) 797 – 6914 linloots@mchsi.com

Viljan # 349 Batavia, Illinois Thomas Cleveland Austin # 466 Chicago, Illinois Robert Oberg Linde # 492 New Berlin, Wisconsin Liza Ekstrand

7 October 1916 (815) 895 – 2102 tcleveland@cityofdekalb.com 6 April 1925 (773) 477 – 7622

6 June 1927 (262) 366 - 9152 lekstrand@wi.rr.com

Joe Harbor # 534 Saint Joseph, Michigan Linda Tjernlund

27 April 1929 (269) 429 - 4207 lintj3@gmail.com

Satellite # 661 Kalamazoo, Michigan Judith Ruser

22 April 1961 (269) 671 - 5970 jrus@tds.net

Bishop Hill # 683 Bishop Hill, Illinois Jeff Anderson Hagar # 721 Mount Prospect, Illinois Keith Emrikson Viking # 730 Flint, Michigan Eric Swanson Lindgren # 754 Green Bay, Wisconsin Fred Juengst

25 March 1968 (309) 932-2068 jeffanderson2552@frontier.com 12 November 1977 (847) 297-4645 kemrikson@comcast.net 15 May 1981 (810) 639 – 6705 ceswan@centurytel.net 14 October 1995 (920) 469 - 1919 mdjuengst@aol.com

5 December 2015 - Christmas Party and Smörgåsbord / Lucia Program Viking # 730 11 April 2015 – Business Meeting & Valborg Celebration; Lundquists 9 May 2015 – Anniversary Dinner; Picturelogue of Stockholm June 2015 – Midsommar Celebration; Potluck Meal

Jubileum # 755 Madison, Wisconsin Gunnard Swanson

17 November 1996 (608) 835 – 5152 gunnardswanson@gmail.com

Nordik Folk # 761 Munster, Indiana Michael Pearson, Jr.

29 January 2006 (219) 845 - 6948 musicianman2112@yahoo.com

15 August 2015 – Planning Meeting for Fish Boil; Potluck; Kiesels 13 September 2015 – Fish Boil; Holy Spirit Lutheran Church Lindgren # 754 14 April 2015 – Pea Soup and Pancake Dinner at the ADRC Nordik Folk # 761 2 May 2015 – Nordik Faire / Scandinavian Festival; Pancake Brunch

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.

24 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 P AID Indianapolis, IN Permit No. 5677

Vasa Order of America Dist rict Lodge Lak e Michigan No.8

KUBB W hen: Fr iday, M ay 29 th @ Noon W her e: H er b an d Lynda Sm ith’s!

47015 Vine Street, Bloomington, MI 49026 (just 20 minutes from the Radisson in Kalamazoo!)

In case you need help finding the place….Lynda’s cell: 219-741-8875

Enjoy Vasa FELLOWSHIP and UNITY! Sm all, Fam i ly-Fr i en dly Tou r n am en t !

Look for REGISTRATION details with the upcoming Convention mailer

ORGANIZERS - Tim Ogrentz, DLCL, Lynda Smith, DLYS, Herb Smith, DL Auditor

W h at i s K ubb?

Kubb (pronounced koob) is a backyard game of Scandinavian origin. Some call it “Viking Chess” and play involves throwing round sticks at rectangular blocks. Simple—yes, but strategy and skills enhance the game. Kubb can be easily picked up by anyone from 80-year-olds to 8year-olds. Teams can range from 1 to 6 people.

That means you can play one-on-one or 6 on 6.

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 and photographs should reach the Editor Joella Hultgren (see page 2 for contact information) by the last day of the month before the month of publication, i.e. 31 March, 30 June, 30 September, and 31 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.