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Fiction Taste of Norway “Ole the Troll & Chocolate date « Jula er en liten oase, the Christmas star” et ideal av snillhet. » truffles Read more on page 18 – Odd Børretzen Read more on page 26 Norwegian American Weekly

Vol. 125 No. 46 December 19, 2014 Established May 17, 1889 • Formerly Western Viking and Nordisk Tidende $2.00 per copy God Jul! Stories & memories to make a merry Christmas

What’s inside? News 2-3 The arrival: a Christmas Eve memoir Business 4 Sports 5 Judith Gabriel Vinje thin and of the lightest consistency, some- ing, but promptly at sunset, after Los Angeles where between crêpe and tortilla. which, he maintained, all mundane Opinion 6-7 “They’re here!” we’d yell, as the old work must cease. Christmas 9-20 Especially during a snowstorm, Studebaker pulled up. We’d fling open the Finally, we’d hear the dinner Christmas in Photos 14-17 Christmas Eve afternoon would stretch front door and usher them inside, where- call: “Vær så god!” That expression, An Ole the Troll Tale 18 into an agony of anticipation, waiting for upon, by their very entrance, they would along with tusen takk—a thousand Grandma and Grandpa. The route from begin to transform an ordinary winter after- thanks—was all we knew of the Barneblad 19 Kenyon to Minneapolis was little more noon into the nearly unbearable brightness of Norse language, except, of course, Connections & Religion 21 than a country dirt road in those days. Christmas Eve. the traditional table prayer, which Norwegian Heritage 22-23 It was the one time each year that They’d shake the snow off their coats, we learned by rote, understanding In Your Neighborhood 24 Ole and Tillie would make the 60-mile and we’d caravan the boxes into the kitchen, nary a word except the Amen, but trip, their old sedan bearing cardboard lifting out sparkling jars of pickled beets, tins knowing well its essence. Arts & Entertainment 25 boxes crammed with ingredients to trans- of carefully stacked rosettes and row upon Ole took his seat at the head Taste of Norway 26 form the day into Christmas. row of delicate krumkake, and finally, stacks of the table, surveying the arrival Travel 27 Mainly, the boxes contained lefse, of lefse wrapped in waxed paper. Our beg- of bowls and platters of glisten- the pounds of handmade lefse Grandma ging would start immediately, hoping Grand- ing, fragrant meatballs, clouds of $1 = NOK 7.446 had been rolling out all week, flipping ma would let us “test” one. mashed potatoes and rutabaga, and updated 12/15/2014 them one-by-one on her wood-burning Soon, Grandpa would grow edgy and the quivering red and green Jell-O stove. Like snowflakes, each lefse would start checking his watch. Christmas was a sa- In comparison be unique, a more-or-less perfect circle, cred day that commenced, not the next morn- See > arrival, page 12 11/15/2014 6.7482 06/15/2014 5.9930 12/15/2013 6.1816 Photo: Marte Kopperud / Visitnorway.com 2 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly Nyheter fra Norge Nyheter Malala støtter studentprotest 10,500 unge bortvist fra Oslo S Ungdommer ned mot 14 år samler seg Fredsprisvinneren forsvarer barn og unges rett til å heve stemmen rundt Oslo Sentralstasjon nattetid for å slåss. Fra juli til september ble til sam- — Hvordan kan jeg ha blitt redd for men 10,500 ungdommer bortvist. Opp dette når jeg ikke frykter noe annet, sa Ma- mot 170 ungdommer inntar området i lala Yousafzai med et smil. Oslo sentrum på kvelds- og nattetid i Også medmottager Kailash Satyarthi helgene for å lage bråk. De fleste un- understreket viktigheten av å beskytte barn gdommene er i alderen 14-18 år, og og unge på alle måter, slik at de føler seg truer med både slag- og stikk­våpen. trygge og som en del av verdenssamfunnet. 40 vektere ble skadd i møte med un- Det var tydelig at politiet hadde strenge gdommene i disse tre månedene, instrukser før seanse. Aftenpostens medar- skriver VG. — I tredje kvartal i år ble beider slapp så vidt inn, og kun etter mange 10,500 ungdommer bortvist fordi de fremvisninger av pressekort og id-kort og var til ubehag og sjikanerte andre. Så telefonering, gikk det i orden. Grunnen var langt har vi hatt 40 reelle skadetilfeller mangel på forhåndsakkreditering. mot vekterne, sier vaktdirektør Frode Malala ble også spurt om hun har poli- Østdahl i Nokas og eiendomsdirektør tiske ambisjoner. Signe Horn i Rom Eiendom til avisen. — Jeg ønsker å hjelpe mitt samfunn og Opphopningen av unge bråkmakere mine brødre og søstre til å få kvalitetsut- ved Oslo Sentralstasjon er blitt så al- danning, og jeg vil jobbe med det. Jeg vil vorlig at stortingsrepresentant Jan Foto: Wikimedia Commons hjelpe mitt land, og jeg har bestemt meg for Bøhler har løftet saken opp til øverste Malala Yousafzai møtte President Obama før hun fikk Nobels fredspris. å gjøre det gjennom politikk. Dersom jeg nivå – til justisminister Anders An- får et flertall med meg når den tiden kom- undsens (Frp). Både Bøhler, Nokas, Aftenposten da mexicanske Adán Cortés Salas stormet mer, så håper jeg å kunne bli statsminister, som har ansvaret for vaktholdet, og scenen i det Aftenposten på lederplass kaller sa Yousafzai, som samtidig la til at man må Rom, som drifter Oslo S, krever mer Statsminister Erna Solberg møtte en sikkerhetsskandale. være 35 år for å være statsminister i Paki- synlig politi når det skjer mest. Justis- mottagerne av Nobels fredspris til sam- Malala Yousafzai svarte med å si at de stan, og at det dermed er mange år igjen. departementet sier Anundsen vil svare taler 11. desember morgen, etterfulgt av en ikke var bekymret. Yousafzai trakk frem at Bøhler direkte. pressekonferanse med de to. barn i land som Pakistan og India også opp­ English Synopsis: Malala Yousafzai supports the Der ble de to mottagerne av Nobels lever vold, og la til at det er viktig at barn Mexican student protester who stormed the stage (NRK) while she was collecting her Nobel Peace Prize. fredspris blant annet spurt om de ble redde hever sine røster. Tapt Disney-film fra 1927 gjenfunnet i Norge Disney-filmen «Empty Socks» fra 1927 var ansett som tapt for alltid, men Knuste rute hos pelsmaker er nå funnet i samlingen til Nasjonal- biblioteket. — Dette er et filmhistorisk og oppsiktsvekkende funn, og vi er En stein var blitt kastet gjennom vinduet til Pelsverkstedet på Kongsberg stolt over at vi har klart å være med på å bringe denne nitratfilmgodbiten til- NRK — For noen kan det nok virke som om bake til historiens lys, sier filmarkivar alle som driver med dette, er en del av den Kjetil Kvale Sørenssen ved Nasjonal- De er tydelig preget av det som virker fæle industrien som ble avbildet, sier Vigdis biblioteket til Aftenposten. Filmen har som en aksjon, etter at NRK sendte den om- Sjølie til Laagendalsposten. vært trygt oppbevart i nitratfilmlageret stridte dokumentaren «Pels» på 11. desem- NRKs Lars Kristiansen, redaktør for i Mo i Rana. Filmen ble 12. desem- ber. En dyrevernsaktivist har i en periode dokumentar og samfunn, reagerer på at den ber 1927 presentert som Disneys aller på to år infiltrert pelsdyrnæringa, og han vil som har drevet ruteknusing takker NRK. Do- første julefilm, men lenge har verdens med filmen avdekke hvordan pelsdyr har det kumentaren «Pels» avdekket kritikkverdige filmhistorikere trodd at snaue 25 i Norge. forhold på norske pelsdyrgårder. sekunder var alt som var igjen. Det var Beskjeden med meldingene «[bann — Vi synes det er forkastelig at noen inntil Nasjonalbibliotekets filmarkiva- slettet] pelsindustri» og «Takk NRK» ble bruker dokumentaren som påskudd for å rer i samarbeid med den amerikanske funnet på en lapp som lå utenfor inngangs- drive hærverk. Dette tar vi selvsagt sterk tegneserieforfatteren og animasjons- døra. I tillegg var altså et vindu knust. Det avstand fra, sier Kristiansen. filmhistorikeren David Gerstein fant var ikke gjort skadeverk inne i verkstedet, Politiet har vært hos Kongsbergbed- filmskatten etter et møysommelig men det vil uansett koste mange tusen kroner riften. De har gjort åstedsundersøkelser og detektivarbeid. Empty Socks handler å utbedre skadene. sikret seg steinen som ble kastet. om julefeiringen til Oswald the Lucky Knut Poverud og Vigdis Sjølie har sett Rabbit dokumentaren, og de reagerer med forfer- English Synopsis: A rock was thrown through the window of a fur shop in Kongsberg directly after (VG) delse på det de har sett. Likevel mener de Foto: Politiet / NRK aksjonistene rammer urettferdig. NRK’s critical documentary on fur farms aired. Dette vindu var knust av steinen.

This is the story of the original Norwegian pioneers who came to America in 1825 on a 54-foot sloop, and eventually settled at the Fox River Settlement near present-day Norway, IL. The 668-page book, with maps and pictures, tells the story of their journey, the families involved, and genealogies of the descendants. This specially-commissioned re- production of the 1961 original is individually numbered over an embossed seal by the Norwegian Slooper Society of America. Only Register now for Norwegian language programs! a limited number of these beauti- • Summer Youth 1-, 2-, and 4-week programs fully gold-embossed hardbound • High School Credit programs books, with protective dust cover, by J. Hart Rosdail Give the • Summer Day Camp programs “The Sloopers” are available. Gift of • Winter and Summer family programs • Scholarships available! Visit Published by: Now available! Collector’s Edition. For more information, Language! www.ConcordiaLanguageVillages.org/Scholarships for more details. $66.30 visit online: SlooperSociety.org WWW.NORWEGIANLANGUAGEVILLAGE.ORG Order through Amazon.com Norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 3 news page Government This week in brief Nobel disruption 40,000 young Norwegians are without to ban foreign jobs, school, or welfare Asylum seeker disrupts A new study shows that 40,000 young Norwegians belong to a group called Nobel 2014 ceremony, criminals NEET—not in employment, education, police apologize Crimes earning sentences of or training. These individuals do not between five and ten years work or study, and they are not regis- tered with NAV, the Norwegian Welfare Sarah Bostock & Michael Sandelson would be cause for denial The Foreigner Administration. They survive either by the support of their parents, by working Michael Sandelson under the table, or by committing crime, A man took to the stage at last week’s The Foreigner NRK reports. Nobel ceremony, interrupting events as Ma- “We know very little about who lala Yousafzai and Kailash Satyarthi were “The government proposes refusing en- these people are. They could be any- being awarded the 2014 Peace Prize. try to people who have committed serious thing from backpackers, aspiring artists The unknown person then came right up criminal offenses abroad. This means that that have moved back in with their par- to the Nobel Laureates under the ceremony. multiple criminal acts may form the basis for ents, or people who struggle with physi- He was holding a Mexican flag as he stood rejection [of entry], regardless of when they cal or psychological challenges,” says on stage for approximately 12 seconds with were committed,” Progress’s (FrP) Justice reseacher Anne Hege Strand to NRK. a camera hanging around his neck before se- Minister Anders Anundsen said in a state- CEO of the Employers’ Associa- curity personnel escorted him away. ment, Friday, Dec. 5. tion, Spekter, Anne Kari Bratten, says He was heard saying “please, Malala, Several extremely grave offenses that Photo: Russell Watkins / Department for that these 40,000 people represent la- they are killing us. Don’t forget Mexico!” International Development / Wikimedia would attract five to ten-year jail terms do bor that Norway needs. “We cannot His Excellency Luiz Javier Campuzano Malala Yousafzai. not qualify for consideration for entry or resi- afford to gamble on whether or not we Piña, Mexico’s ambassador to Norway, is dency refusal under current legislation. These can reach out to this group. These are not certain of the man’s motive. The Am- derstanding for the solidarity in the man’s include forced marriage, human trafficking, 40,000 people that the labor market will bassador believes the person’s actions might message. He tried to show solidarity for the mutilation of female genitals, and inciting need when the aging population flows be associated with the county-wide protests relatives and demanded justice for the killed acts of terrorism. The government says it pro- in over the country like a long-lasting in Mexico, however. These protests came student teachers. It was still not the correct poses amending the Immigration Act to take tsunami,” Bratten concludes. after corrupt officials kidnapped 43 Mexi- place and way in which to do this,” His Ex- account of this. (Norway Post / Aftenposten) can student teachers and handed them over cellency told NRK. “Foreigners previously penalized abroad, to a criminal gang called Guerreros Unidos Security then led the man out of the hall, or on whom sanctions have been imposed for (United Warriors) in September. before holding him against a wall outside an offense that could lead to five or more years Norway suspends bilateral military “We are sorry and regret that the man activities with Russia through 2015 disrupted the ceremony, but I possess un- See > nobel, page 6 See > criminals, page 6 Military bilateral cooperation has been suspended since March’s illegal annex- ation of Crimea and destabilization in eastern Ukraine. The Government has decided to continue the suspension until Norway’s Knut Nystedt passes the end of 2015. “The situation in Eastern Ukraine Norwegian composer, conductor, and is serious, and Russia has indisputably organist passed away aged 99 on Dec. 8 a destabilizing role. This is not accept- able,” says Defense Minster Ine Eriksen Søreide. Michael Sandelson NATO decided in September to The Foreigner continue the suspension of the practi- cal and military cooperation between Born in Oslo (then Christiania) on Sep- storget. the alliance and Russia, while political tember 3, 1915, he was regarded as one of Following his conduc- communication channels are kept open. Norway’s most significant contemporary tor debut with Filharmonisk Collaboration will continue in composers of the past 100 years. Selskaps orkester in 1945, the Coast Guard, Border Guard, and search- He was most known for his choral mu- young Norwegian then trav- and-rescue activities, as well as the sic, though orchestral, chamber, string quar- elled to New York for a period workings of the Incidents at Sea Agree- tet, organ, and piano works are among his of study with organist Ernest ment. Contact between the Norwegian prolific number of compositions. White in 1947. This was the Joint Headquarters and the Northern One of his composition teachers was same year as he took lessons Fleet will continue as well. American composer Aaron Copeland (1900- from composer Aaron Cope- Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Ministry of Defense) 1990), with whom he studied in the U.S. at land in the summer. Knut Nystedt in 2007. Tanglewood. In 1950, Knut Nystedt Knut Nystedt grew up in a musical started Det Norske Solistkor, conducting the mances of his choral works is his Kyrie given home. His father, Faktor Robert Emil Mad- ensemble for the 40 years up to 1990. They by the Southeast Missouri State University GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE Choir in the Robert F. and Gertrude L. Shuck sen (1885–1963), led an amateur quartet. He performed in all of Scandinavia, the U.S. (in started studying the piano at nine years old. 1960, 1973, and 1975), and Asia (1978). Music Recital Hall at the River Campus last VICKI RUDH-JONES PHYSICAL THERAPY In 1917, he changed his main instrument Nystedt was awarded the Order of St. month. Peace I Leave With You, performed from piano to organ. Olav (1st Class) in 1966, and made Com- by Die Marienkantorei, a choir from St 283 OSPREY RIDGE Nystedt took his exam at what was mander of the Order of St. Olav in 2005 for Mary’s Church, Osnabrück, at Derby Cathe- then Musikkonservatoriet i Oslo (Oslo Mu- his contribution to Norwegian musical life. dral, also took place in November. MACHESNEY PARK, IL 61115 sic Conservatory) in 1936. This was some He also received the 1978 Spellemannprisen four years after his first position as organ- (Spellemann Awards), as well as other prizes Additional source: Norsk Biografisk Lek- 815-623-9200 ist at misjonskirken Betlehem in downtown and honors. sikon. Oslo’s Møllergata in the vicinity of Young- Included in many international perfor- PHYSICAL THERAPY AND MASSAGE THERAPY

theforeigner.no is one of the top sources for English-language news ONE HOUR MASSAGE and features from Norway. Subscriptions start at NOK 49 per month $50.00 There are no foreign «lands. It is the traveler

only who is foreign. – Robert Louis Stevenson » 4 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly Business Business News & Notes First oil from Gulf of Mexico project eration of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), she Early stage investing Norwegian energy provider Statoil has an- is concerned about the lack of new housing nounced that the oil and natural gas produc- developments in and around Norway’s larg- A proposed government incentive and investment tion has started from the partner-operated est cities. Just in Oslo, Akershus, Østfold, companies like Alliance Venture help startups thrive Jack/St. Malo project in the U.S. Gulf of and Buskerud counties, another 8,000 homes Mexico. Statoil says expected production should be built every year in order to keep from the combined fields is 23,000 barrels up with population growth and new citizens. of oil equivalent per day at peak production. If not enough new properties are being The Jack/St. Malo project in the U.S. built, the prices of existing houses will go Gulf of Mexico is the first of five major up. “People’s settlement will be more spread, Statoil U.S. offshore fields that will begin which means longer commutes that are not production over the next few years. good for traffic or the environment,” says Statoil plans to have more than a four- Skogen Lund. fold increase in offshore production—to The Head of the NHO wants real estate over 100,000 barrels of oil equivalent per developments to become part of the devel- day—from the U.S. Gulf of Mexico by 2020. opment of other critical infrastructure such This would make Statoil one of the largest as railway and roads to a larger degree. producers in the Gulf of Mexico. “When planning public transit, we have to Along with Jack/St. Malo, Statoil has plan smart. We have to set aside areas for ownership in many large fields coming on schools and residences, so that more people line over the next several years. can live close to transportation. It should (Statoil) also be made easier for developers to build new homes, with less regulations,” Skogen Norway needs more housing developments Lund states. to avoid real estate bubble CEO of the Norwegian Home Builders’ Norway does not build enough homes to Association, Per Jæger, agrees. He says that keep up with population growth. “The risk of the main problem is that not enough prop- Photo courtesy of Alliance Venture a housing bubble increases if Norway’s real erties are made available for new develop- Some of Alliance Venture’s partners, from left to right: Erling Maartmann-Moe, Bjørn Christensen, Arne Tonning, and Jan-Erik Hareid. estate development does not increase,” says ments. Kristin Skogen Lund. As head of the Confed- (Norway Post / NRK) Rasmus Falck One of Alliance’s portfolio companies Exchange Rates Oslo Børs: Week at a Glance Oslo, Norway is Novelda. They develop and manufac- (Dec. 15, 2014) Winners Losers ture adoptive smart sensors. They recently This year has been a good year for eq- closed a $12 million financing round to se- Norsk Kr. 7.4464 Name NOK Change Name NOK Change uity funds raising capital in Norway. Among cure delivery and further development of Dansk Kr. 5.9817 Frontline 19.20 23.87% Norwegian Energy Co. 1.13 -40.84% Eltek 11.45 17.20% Oceanteam Shipping 4.99 -14.70% the venture funds raising new equity are their XeThru sensor technology. The sensor Svensk Kr. 7.6471 Photocure 23.90 15.46% Medistim 24.00 -10.45% HighTechVision with 1.4 billion, NeoMed is designed to detect movement and human Islandsk Kr. 123.79 Archer 3.95 10.64% Blom 12.05 -10.41% with 800 million, and ProVenture and Alli- body vital signs such as breathing and heart Skiens Aktiemølle 95.00 10.47% Polarcus 0.64 -8.57% Canadian $ 1.1653 ance Venture Spring with 500 million NOK rate from a distance of several meters. The Euro 0.8040 For detailed information about the Oslo Børs, visit www.dn.no. each. sensors use harmless, extremely low-energy, Alliance Venture Spring is a seed fund high-frequency radio waves, and can sense that invests in emerging technology com- through clothing, bedding, and obstacles the panies at an early stage and supports the such as glass, walls, and other materials. startups’ global expansion through their in- In this year’s national budget talks Hearthstone ternational network. One of their partners (Statsbudsjettet) the parties Høyre and Ven- has since the summer been the “Investor stre agreed that they would strongly con- in Residence” at Nordic Innovation House sider establishing a pre-seed fund where in- in Palo Alto, where he is an integrated part vestments from private investors would be of the team there. His mission for the seed matched by the government. To help early fund is to support their portfolio companies, startups, Venstre even goes a bit further as benchmark new investment opportunities for they launched a proposal for a new twenty the latest funds, and strengthen the network. percent tax incentive for investors in early Alliance attracted a number of high- startup companies. The investments have profile investors. Their new early-stage fund to be invested for at least three years. The will primarily invest in new, promising IT investor may not be employed by the com- startups in Norway. The fund was oversub- pany. scribed and attracted a number of strategic And on that topic, let me just remind investors, among them Telenor and Opera you that to kick-start the economy, lasting Software. Capital under management is until April 2017, there is a fifty percent tax NOK 500 million. Alliance was formed in incentive in Great Britain. Welcome to the Neighborhood! 2001 and this is their third fund. Rasmus Falck is a strong The fund is based in Oslo, but will make innovation and entrepre- investments all over Norway, with a fo- neurship advocate. The cus on early-stage IT companies. They can author of “What do the make investments internationally, but they best do better” and “The will mainly invest in Norwegian companies. board of directors as a Their aim is to give the investors an attrac- resource in SME,” he re- tive return on invested capital, while at the ceived his masters degree same time helping entrepreneurs succeed in from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He commercializing their ideas. currently lives in Oslo, Norway.

the Hearthstone

Retirement Living 6720 E Green Lake Way N Seattle, WA 98103 at Seattle’s Green Lake www.hearthstone.org (206) 517-2213 norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 5 sports Go for bronze, silver, gold, or ... enamel? Sons of Norway’s sports medals promote fitness—and the earning of shiny badges

Christine Foster Meloni Washington, D.C.

Let the Sons of Norway inspire you! Participate in one or more of their five sports medal programs. Choose Walking (gang- merke), Skiing (skimerke), Cycling (syk- kelmerke), Swimming (svømmemerke), or Sports & Fitness (idrettsmerke). You can earn bronze, silver, gold, and enamel medals for each program. The pur- pose of these programs is to encourage SON members to live an active lifestyle, as most Norwegians do. I decided to begin with the Walking program. I checked the requirements. I looked at my age group, 55-69, and discov- ered that I would earn a bronze medal after walking 100 miles to be completed within a year. I started walking, and every time I took a walk (which I did regularly every morning before going to work) I would log the date Photos: (top) Christine Foster Meloni, (above) Mattias Fredriksson / Visitnorway.com and distance (in miles) on the record card Top: A full set of Walking and Cycling medals. provided on the SON website. I asked my Above: You don’t have to do your cycling in Norway—but it couldn’t hurt! husband to initial my card after each walk. When I completed the required 100 I chose Cycling as my next challenge, The Sports & Fitness program is dif- dancing; eight points for baseball or hand- miles, I submitted my card to the Sports Di- but I also continued my daily walks. For my ferent in that you can select from a variety ball; 12 points for water aerobics or kayak- rector of my lodge. She forwarded it to the age group the requirements were the follow- of activities, actually 24 activities. On your ing; 15 points for soccer or basketball. SON headquarters in Minneapolis. Short- ing: 100 miles for bronze, 200 miles for sil- record card, you must indicate the activity, You can repeat any of these medal pro- ly thereafter, I was awarded the Walking ver, 300 miles for gold, and 350 miles for how much time you spent on it, and how grams as many times as you wish. You will bronze medal at a lodge meeting. enamel. For the Cycling medal, you can ride many points you earned. The points awarded keep fit and earn some lovely medals. I decided not to stop there. I immediate- either a regular bicycle or a stationary bike. vary according to the activity. You must, of course, be a member of ly began working on my silver medal. The I completed all four levels of this sports pro- Let me give some examples of how the Sons of Norway to participate in these requirement for this medal was 210 miles. I gram as well. many points you would earn if you partici- sports programs and win medals. For more had to start at zero again to earn this medal. The Swimming and Skiing programs pated in a particular activity for ten minutes: information, go to the SON website at www. Then I went on to earn my gold (315 miles) are similar to the Walking and Cycling ones, four points for walking; five points for bad- sofn.com. and my enamel (420 miles) medal. focused on a single sport. minton or bowling; six points for hiking or

Sports News & Notes

Biathlon: Victory for Thingnes Bø in third with 344. Norway’s Johannes Thingnes Bø (21) won The men’s World Cup 15km classic the men’s World Cup Biathlon 10km sprint race was won by Norway’s Martin Johnsrud in Hochfiltzen, Austria, on Friday, Dec. 12, Sund­by, with compatriot Didrik Tønseth in God Jul og Godt Nyttår! ahead of German pair Simon Schempp and second. Swiss skier Dario Cologna placed Andreas Birnbacher, who finished second third. Norway’s Sjur Røthe came fourth. and third respectively. Johannes’s elder Sundby also tops the World Cup overall. brother Tarjei Bø, finished sixth. (Norway Post / NRK Aftenposten) In the women’s 7.5km sprint, Tirill Eck- hoff came third. Finland’s Kaisa Makarainen Handball: Spain-Norway 26-29 won the race, ahead of Italy’s Karin Ober- Norway defeated Spain 29-26 in the wom- hofer. en’s European Handball Championsip on (NRK / Aftenposten) Saturday, Dec. 13. It was a 16-16 draw at halftime. Cross Country skiing: Johaug and This comes after Norway’s defeat of Sundby win again Denmark 27-21 in the last match in the Norway’s Therese Johaug won the women’s group play of the women’s European Hand- World Cup cross country 10km classic race ball Championship on Thursday, Dec. 11. Join our community! in Davos, Switzerland on Saturday, Dec. 13, Denmark led 13-12 at that game’s halftime. ahead of compatriot Marit Bjørgen. How- As of that match, Norway led Group B with Just $70 for 47 issues ever, Bjørgen still leads the World Cup over- 4 points, while Spain topped Group A. * * all with 599 points. Johaug is second with (Norway Post / NRK / Aftenposten) Call (800) 305-0217 or email [email protected] for details 488 points, while Norway’s Heidi Weng is 6 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly opinion < nobel From page 3 while he tried to explain about human rights. Police then removed him from the area. According to head of staff at Oslo po- lice, Johan Fredriksen, the unidentified man had gotten in by following “after others who had passed the checkpoint, and not been Christmas Greetings from Ambassador Kåre R. Aas detected by those responsible for check- to readers of the Norwegian American Weekly ing names and identification.” He had also passed through the subsequent security arch, and his items had been x-rayed. These were a Dear Readers, camera, mobile phone, and key ring. Greetings from Washington D.C.! Police in Oslo believe the man is a med- Here at the Norwegian Embassy, ical student from Mexico. He had applied for preparations for the holidays are in full asylum in Norway just yesterday. swing. As I’m writing this, our little Oslo District Police’s Rune Bjørsvik Christmas tree is being set up in the told reporters immediately after the incident lobby, complete with lights and some that it “isn’t a security breach because there modest ornaments. was a flag.” Our in-house tree can’t hold a can- “At the same time, it’s an undesirable dle to the one we lit at Union Station on event that doesn’t look good, so the police Dec. 1, though. That tree stands 30 feet don’t like it.” Officers later referred to it as a tall, has 20,000 lights! failure in their routines, apologizing for the Last year’s tree was decorated security breach. with reproductions of Edvard Munch’s The ceremony continued without a Scream, in honor of the 150th anniver- hitch. Malala, who spoke after other No- sary of his birth. This year we are fea- bel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, thanked her turing 700 Norwegian-made reflectors friends, family, and supporters. She also paid (safety items worn by Norwegian chil- tribute to her father. “Thank you for not clip- dren and adults to make them more vis- ping my wings, for letting me fly,” she said. ible at night) in the shape of polar bears. The 17-year-old, the first Pakistani and The polar bears are a powerful Photo: Bruce Guthrie youngest person to be awarded the Nobel symbol of the Arctic—a wonderful re- Ambassador Aas (right) with Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar in front of the Christmas tree at Peace Prize, has said that she would like to gion with breathtaking landscapes and Union Station, festooned with reflective polar bears. become Pakistan’s Prime Minister. She has cherished wildlife. The Arctic also hap- vowed to continue to fight for the education- pens to be home to roughly 10% of the band, and joyful guests. as relevant today as they were in the time al rights of girls around the world. Norwegian population. Norway enjoys a strong position in the of Munch. It will be interesting to see “Why is it countries we call strong, pow- As many of you might already U.S. thanks to the Norwegian-American what other Norwegian cultural phenom- erful, are so weak in creating peace? Why is know, the Arctic is changing fast. Cli- community, Norwegian enterprises, many ena make their way to these shores in the it that making tanks is so easy, but building mate change is posing new challenges political visits, joint cooperation with the years to come. schools is so hard?” Malala asked toward the to the ecosystems, and threatening the U.S. in many areas and dedicated embassy Speaking of looking forward: end of her speech. polar bears. This is why it’s important staff. This is an excellent base for strength- Christmas is a joyous time of year, a that we—the United States and Norway, ening the cooperation even further for many time we spend with our loved ones, a continue to work together to address the years to come. time to take stock of where we’ve been, songwriter duo are famous to meet many more. the Rightist coalition—comprising the Con- the embassy we celebrated the bicenten- for the song “Am I Wrong,” which reached Thank you for your interest in Nor- servatives (H) and Progress (FrP)—and the nial by hosting an exhibit of Norwegian No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 list in Amer- way and in your Norwegian heritage. Christian Democrats (KrF) and Liberals (V). modern art. It was an excellent evening ica. The duo’s success serves as a nice re- I wish you all a very Merry Christ- It also comes due to Center-Right consensus complete with a birthday cake, a brass minder that Norwegian arts and culture are mas—God Jul! on immigration policy points. God Jul This Christmas, give the gift of heritage $59 for new U.S. subscriptions Special Offer: $79 for Canada and $179 for Int’l subscriptions Sorry, not valid on renewals. Offer good through Dec. 31, 2014.

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Norwegian American Weekly (USPS 679-840) (ISSN 1942-1389) is published weekly except the last two weeks of July, the first two weeks of August and the last week of Dec. by Norwegian American Weekly Inc, 7301 Fifth Avenue NE Suite A, Seattle, WA 98115. Periodicals postage paid at Seattle, WA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Norwegian American Weekly 7301 Fifth Avenue NE Suite A, Seattle, WA 98115. Phone: (206) 784-4617 • Email: naw@na- Proud to bring you the Norwegian American Weekly weekly.com • Website: www.na-weekly.com. Annual subscription cost: USD $70 domestic; USD $94 to Canada; USD $212 to Norway and all other foreign countries. norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 7 opinion Norwegian American Weekly Letters to the Editor Published since May 17, 1889 7301 Fifth Avenue NE Suite A, Seattle, WA 98115 Do you have something to say? Toll-free: (800) 305-0217 • Local: (206) 784-4617 Fax: (206) 448-2033 • Email: [email protected] W rite to us at Norwegian American Weekly, Letter to the Editor, 7301 Fifth Avenue NE, Suite A, Seattle, WA 98115, or email us at [email protected], subject line Publisher: Norwegian American Foundation Letter to the Editor. Letters may be edited for style, clarity, or length. Editor-in-chief Emily C. Skaftun [email protected] Copy Editor “Viking” in English Harry Svenkerud [email protected] Advertising Evan Deam [email protected] Dear Editor, The recent discussion in your Opinion Subscriptions pages about the origin of the word Viking is John Erik Stacy [email protected] fascinating to anybody with even the slight- Editorial Assistant est interest in etymology. Eric Hallén’s ref- Molly Jones [email protected] erence to the relationship of the word with Contributors Viken as the old name of the Oslofjord Larrie Wanberg Grand Forks, N.D. sounds plausible, even more so because the Patricia Barry Hopewell Junction, N.Y. Melinda Bargreen Everett, Wash. part of Oslo known today as “Bjørvika” was Carla Danziger McLean, Va. / Albany, Calif. so named before the Middle Ages and is Daughters of Norway Members Various Gary G. Erickson Sunburg, Minn. thought to have been the core of the Norwe- Rasmus Falck O oslo, Norway gian city on the fjord back then. Marit Fosse G geneva, Switzerland Sunny Gandara Beacon, N.Y. Most linguists would probably agree Shelby Gilje Seattle, Wash. that the authoritative source of etymology in Heidi Håvan Grosch Sparbu, Norway the Indo-European languages is the Oxford Line Grundstad Hanke Seattle, Wash. Victoria Hofmo Brooklyn, N.Y. English Dictionary, which echoes Hallén’s Leslee Lane Hoyum R rockford, Minn. suspicion of the word Viking being related to Inger-Torill Kirkeby Miami, Fla. Scott Larsen New Westminster, B.C. vik. But the OED digs deeper, and tells us: Photo from the collection of Clive Basset Thor A. Larsen Fishkill, N.Y. “The ON [Old Norse] word is com- Correctly labeled now, left to right: Harold Nelson, medic; Leif Oistad; and Walter Peck, music. Solveig M. Lee Seattle, Wash. Whitney Love Stavanger, Norway monly regarded as [from] vik, creek, inlet, Christine Foster Meloni Washington, D.C. bay + ingr … a Viking thus being one who 2013. However, it is not, according to most was wonderful to watch them reunite. And David Nikel Trondheim, Norway came out from, or frequented, inlets of the reviews, an authoritative opus, rather an it was just as wonderful for us wives to meet Roy Jorgensen Hopewell Junction, N.Y Jerry Larson Zimmerman, Minn. sea. The name, however, was evidently cur- amusing invitation to learn more about them at last, get to know them and their Richard Londgren Thousand Oaks, Calif. rent in Anglo-Frisian from a date so early where some words come from. wives, plus connect them with their pictures. Donald V. Mehus New York, N.Y. David Moe S sun City, Calif. as to make its Scandinavian origin doubt- Christmas greetings became even more pre- Ken Nordan Batavia, Ill. ful; wicingsceada is found in Anglo-Saxon Med vennlig hilsen, cious after having met. Barbara K. Rostad Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho Rolf Kristian Stang New York, N.Y. glossaries dating from the 8th century, and Olaf R. Saugen Daytona Strong Seattle, Wash. sæ-wicimgas occurs in the early poem of Sacramento, Penn. Sincerely, Judith Gabriel Vinje Los Angeles, Calif. Exodus, whereas evidence of Vikings in ON Elaine M. Nelson N orwegian American Weekly strives to make and Ice [Icelandic] is doubtful before the lat- Holmen, Wis. its news report fair and accurate. If you have NORSO photograph a question or comment about news coverage ter part of the tenth century. It is therefore call (206) 784-4617. • Norwegian American possible that the word really originated in the Weekly reserves the right to edit any and all Anglo-Frisian area, and was, only at a later Dear Editor, Dear Elaine, submissions for style, grammar, accuracy, and/ or space, and the right not to print submissions date, accepted by the Scandinavian peoples; Thank you for the November 7, 2014, Thank you for correctly captioning the deemed libelous, in poor taste, or not suited for in that case it was probably formed from OE issue that carried the article and pictures of photo, and for adding a personal element to publication in this newspaper. • The opinions expressed by opinion writers and letter writers [Old English] wic camp, the formation of a the OSS Operational Groups, NORSO, and this story. I hope you’ve enjoyed the second are not necessarily those of Norwegian American temporary encampment, being a prominent the Norwegian Connection. I was pleasantly installment, which ran in last week’s paper. Weekly, and our publication of those views feature of Viking raids.” surprised to see the picture of the three para- is not an endorsement of them. Comments, suggestions, and complaints about the opinions It is not a small tragedy that we have still troopers in training at Northamptonshire, Sincerely, expressed by the paper’s editorials should be no authoritative source on Norwegian ety- England, because it is an enlarged version of Editor directed to the publisher. • Norwegian American Weekly is published weekly except the first week mology. My “rektor” and Norwegian teacher an identical one my family and I have. My of the calendar year, the week after Easter, the at Grefsen gymnasium was Marius Sandvei late husband, Harold Nelson, was an OSS last week of July, and the first two weeks ofA ugust who was co-author of Tanums Store Rett- paratrooper, and his photo album shows Correction by Norwegian American Weekly, INC. • Please send address changes to 7301 Fifth Ave. NE skrivningsordbok. We also have the massive many of his comrades during their training in Suite A Seattle, WA 98115 • Annual Subscription Norsk Rikmålsordbok published in 1937. But England and Scotland. Correctly identified, In the December 5 issue, we incorrectly Cost: US $70 Domestic, US $94 to Canada, US there is no word origin in these works. The the men, left to right, are Harold Nelson, spelled “grøt” with two t’s about a million $212 to Norway and all other foreign countries. best resource to date has probably been the medic; Leif Oistad; and Walter Peck, music. times. That story, “Grøtt Fest warms more SINCE MAY 17, 1889: Formerly Norway Times 1905 edition of Etymologisk Ordbog Over The OSS Group held several reunions, than bellies,” was added into the issue at Western Viking & Washington Posten det Norske og det Danske Sprog by Hjalmar two of which we attended—one in Minne- the last minute, after our Copy Editor Harry Comprising Nordisk Tidende, Decorah-Posten Falk and Alf Torp. It predictably connects apolis, the other in Washington, D.C. The Svenkerud had finished his work. He would og Ved Arnen, Minneapolis-Tidende, Minnesota Viking to the word vik. I understand that a three men, as well as several others, were undoubtedly have caught the mistake! I Posten, Norrona, and Skandinaven new effort is underway by Yann de Caprone comrades who became close friends and had thought I was doing so well, having added in NORWEGIAN AMERICAN WEEKLY, INC. who published Norsk Etymologisk Ordbok in exchanged Christmas greetings for years. It all the ø’s. Uff da!

Han Ola og Han Per with new translations by John Erik Stacy

M om, Mom, come here I am bound to have a dog immediately and find me some O w ow ow, are Just wait a bit, Lars, and I’ll M y goodness, what to protect myself from food you lazy goat! Make it snappy! Sic him, Shep, you crazy then! find a dandy lunch for you. is the meaning of Lars. He is so cranky that sic him there! Perhaps you want a drink this, Værmor? I’m almost afraid. Here I come, Lars, and it sure will be snappy too! too? Oh gee whiz, ha ha ha— 8 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly christmas Celebrate the Holiday Season with an Anthony’s Lutefisk Dinner!

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Independent ~ U.S. Flag Liner Service ~ Ship Owners Ship Operators & Project Managers norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 9 Christmas Welcome to NAW’s 2014 Christmas issue Don’t take Odin out of Yule How our modern-day Santa Claus and his reindeer sleigh evolved from Norse myth Claus traditions were now spreading to Scandinavia, the Nordic julenisse started to Judith Gabriel Vinje deliver the Christmas presents, replacing the Los Angeles Yule Goat. In Norway, it is said that the Julenisse or Santa Claus owes his very existence to Santa Claus was born under a rock in Vind- the old Norse myths. He’s changed a lot over fangerbukta north of the town of Drøbak on the centuries, but his origins in Scandinavia the Oslofjord, several hundred years ago. and Northern Europe cannot be denied. Today, Drøbak is considered the premier Here’s a look at how Santa Claus Norwegian Christmas town, with its popular emerged from the lands of the Vikings, ex- Christmas house or Julehuset located right changing the Norse god Odin’s more terri- next to the town hall. Busloads of people fying traits for those of a plump, chuckling come to see the julenisse, trolls, elves, and man of eternally good nature. gnomes in the house. Whether tourists know Odin was chief among the Norse pa- it or not, these are the image descendants of gan deities. (We still remember him in the the one-eyed god Odin. day of the week named for him, Wednesday, Folklore experts can’t deny the legacy Woden’s Day.) He was spiritual, wise, and of Odin, and his transformation into new ver- capricious. In centuries past, when the mid- sions of Yule gift-bringers. Margaret Baker, winter Yule celebration was in full swing, author of “Discovering Christmas Customs Odin was both a terrifying specter and an Photo: W.G. Collingwood / Wikimedia Commons and Folklore” comments that “The appear- anxiously awaited gift-bringer, soaring Odin atop his eight-legged steed, Sleipnir. In pagan times the pair would ride at Yule, terrifying those ance of Santa Claus or Father Christmas, through the skies on his flying eight-legged who dared to be out but also bringing candy and toys to children. Clement C. Moore replaced Sleipnir whose day is the 25th of December, owes white horse, Sleipnir. with eight flying reindeer in his 18th-century poem, and the image stuck. much to Odin, the old blue-hooded, cloaked, Back in the day of the Vikings, Yule was white-bearded Giftbringer of the north, who the time around the Winter Solstice on Dec. There he morphed into Sinter Klaas, a kind of Alfheim, home of the elves. And all magi- rode the midwinter sky on his eight-footed 21. Gods and ghosts went soaring above and wise old man with a white beard, white cal weapons and jewelry of the gods and steed Sleipnir, visiting his people with gifts.” the rooftops on the Wild Ride, the dreaded dress, and red cloak. He’d ride the skies and goddesses were fashioned by highly skilled These figures, preserved and evolved Oskoreia. One of Odin’s many names was roofs of the houses on his eight-legged white dwarves, who dwelled deep within the earth. from myth and pagan belief and folkore, Jólnir (master of Yule). Astride Sleipnir, he horse, delivering gifts through the chimney In steps the Yule goat, the giver of gifts light up the imagination during the longest, led the flying Wild Hunt, accompanied by to the well-behaved children on his birthday, until the 19th century. A popular theory is darkest days of the year. For Christians, that his sword-maiden Valkyries and a few other Dec. 6, St. Nicholas Day. Reminds you of that the celebration of the goat is connect- light emanates from a babe in a manger in gods and assorted ghosts. Odin, right? ed to worship of the Norse god Thor, who far-off Bethlehem, worlds away from the The motley gang would fly over the vil- 17th-century Dutch immigrants brought rode the sky in a chariot drawn by two goats. Norse gods, the elves, the goats, and the lages and countryside, terrifying any who their tradition of Sinter Klaas to America, Today, the Yule goat in Scandinavia is best wild hunt. In Norway, when people greet happened to be out and about at night. But and his name changed into Santa Claus. known as a Christmas ornament, made out of each other with God Jul—Good Yule—that Odin would also deliver toys and candy. Santa Claus: a portly, jolly man with a straw and bound with red ribbons. origin of the Christmas observance becomes Children would fill their boots with straw for white beard, wearing a red coat, carrying a In the 19th century, as American Santa the star of the season. Sleipnir, and set them by the hearth. Odin bag full of gifts for children. This image be- would slip down chimneys and fire holes, came popular in the U.S. in the 19th century leaving his gifts behind. after the publication of the poem “A Visit Centuries passed, and the world was from St. Nicholas” by Clement C. Moore. changing. About the time paganism was be- The eight-legged horse was replaced for ing replaced by Christianity—which hap- eight flying reindeer. And of course, where pened centuries later in the north than the do reindeer come from in the first place? rest of Europe—honoring Odin became Santa’s image got more popular through forbidden. Yule was rescheduled to coincide advertisements for Coca-Cola in the 1930s. with the Christian celebrations, and Odin The artist, Haddon Sundblom, was the son of was pushed out of the picture. Finnish immigrants. Before Sundblom rein- First the chief god was replaced by the vented him, Santa had been a tall, wizardly goodly Christian Saint Nicholas, a fourth- looking fellow, much more like Odin. The century Greek bishop. Always depicted Finns held on to a more ancient image of the wearing a red cloak, he became known as Yule master for centuries. The Joulupukki or the patron saint of giving in most parts of “Yule Buck” is originally a pagan tradition. Europe—but not Scandinavia. He had help- He is connected to Odin and said to wear red ers who would report on which children leather pants and a fur trimmed red leather were good. He’d deliver gifts to the good coat. But Sundblom also remembered the kids. Beware the punishments dealt out to jovial Dutch Santa Claus with his red cloak those who were bad! and long white beard. After the Reformation, Nick and the As for the elves in Santa’s North Pole other saints became forgotten in all the Prot- workshop who work all year long making Photo: adbranch.com estant countries of Europe except Holland. Christmas toys, it was Odin who was the lord Ads such as this helped to cement Santa’s identity as a jolly, fat, bearded man. 10 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly christmas Norwegian 101 Language practice with Heidi Håvan Grosch Angels we have Juletrær (Christmas Trees) heard on high As some of you may remember (som noen kanskje husker) from previous years, my husband (mannen min) and I grow A German choir, singing Lucia in Danish, Christmas trees (dyrker juletrær). Norwegians are the picki- est Christmas tree shoppers in the world (verdens mest kresne mesmerizes Brooklyn-area Norwegians juletrekjøpere), so we spend a lot of time pruning (klipping Victoria Hofmo og kniping) each tree (hvert tre) each year (hvert år). Ours is Brooklyn, N.Y. a small production (en liten produksjon), only (bare) about 10,000 trees, and we do much of the work by hand (vi gjør On the evening of Monday, December 8, mye av arbeidet for hånd). the Lyspiger (Light Girls) choir from Duborg- As our land is very steep (svært bratt) and it is unrealistic Skolen (school) located in Flensborg, Ger- (urealistisk) to use a tractor, my husband has adapted (har til- many, performed a Christmas concert at the basset) various implements (ulike redskaper) to use with the Norwegian Christian Home & Health Center ATV (firhjuling). One such machine is an industrial-sized (en (NCH). This Danish school was founded al- industriell størrelse) lawnmower (gressklipper) powered by most 100 years ago in the Schleswig area of (drevet av) a hand tractor and made from (laget av) two mo- Germany. So, why are they singing in Dan- tors (to motorer) from old mowers and a great deal of scrap ish? Now that’s an interesting history. metal (en god del av skrapmetall). There’s your innovative The areas of Schleswig and Holstien are (innovativ) and creative (kreativ) Norwegian farmer (norsk both geographically part of Jutland. Their autonomy see-sawed between Germany bonde) for you! Never throw things away because you may (then Prussia) and Denmark over the course need it someday (Aldri kaster ting fordi du kanskje trenger Photo: Michael D’Ambrosio of various wars, as they were the spoils. A soloist performs at Lyspiger’s NCH concert. det en dag). Eventually, both became part of Germany Most Christmas tree sales (det meste av juletresalget) be- and remain so to this day. However, in many mostly in Danish, but with a few tunes in gin (begynner) around the 10th of December, although (selv cases the Danish minority retained its iden- English. Many of the songs were from Scan- om) the big retailers (store forhandlere) already (allrede) have tity, including language and education. dinavia, but there was also a good balance According to the school’s principal, of recognizable songs, like “Away in a Man- Ebbe B. Rasmussen, “About 50,000 Danes ger.” “Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming” was live in the area today and about 8,000 are in exceptional with its blended harmonies— the school system.” The choir began in 1925. sweet, soft, subtle, pure, and haunting. Its members range from ages 16 to 20. About The angels began to depart, choreo- 10 years ago they began touring during the graphed in a curved intersecting pattern as three weeks before Christmas. They per- they sang Santa Lucia once again. One resi- formed at the NCH about eight years prior dent chimed in on the chorus of Santa Lu- and thought it was time to return. The have cia. Many of those living in the home are of also toured in London, Paris, and New York. Italian heritage, so this song resonates with The concert was held in the NCH’s cozy them. The audience was in awe and mesmer- auditorium. After Rasmussen introduced he ized, by the time the last girl sang the last choir and explained the school’s history and note of Santa Lucia, at the purity of one lone about the Danish minority in Germany, the voice. performance began. Soloist and choir leader Then the school’s principal presented a Photo: Pixabay Froya Gildberg from Trondhiem, Norway, gift to Sheryl Larsen, Activities Director of Family Christmas tree farms like Heidi’s offer more than just a tree. sang two songs. She was accompanied by the NCH. I asked Principal Rasmussen how pianist and her co-leader Ruth Marschmann. it was to come to the Norwegian Christian artificial trees (kunstige trær) on sale. Yes, much to the dis- Electric lights were extinguished. The Home. “I think we had a very warm wel- may (til stor forferdelse) of traditionalists (tradisjonalister) full audience was thrust into darkness. And come,” he said. “We are impressed with the then from the silence a vision—16 young audience. They were very engaged. If it’s and Christmas tree farmers (juletrebønder), more and more women dressed in white floated out in can- possible we’d like to come back again.” people (flere og flere mennesker) are converting (konverterer) dlelight. The audience stared in hushed still- Larsen added, “What a wonderful gift to artificial trees. That is one of the reasons (en av grunnene) ness. They entered singing Santa Lucia, but from Denmark to the Norwegian Christian we, at Gran og Greier (Spruce and Things/www.granoggreier. did not have one Lucia marked with a wreath Home. What an excellent presentation, one no), want to sell an experience (selger en opplevelse) and not of candles. of the best we’ve ever had.” I couldn’t agree just a tree (og ikke bare trær). We want the children (barna) Instead all were Lucias. They sang the more. It was pure joy to hear this angelic to think it is so fun (så gøy) that they come back (de kommer entire concert a cappella, and by memory, choir during the Christmas season. tilbake) year after year (år etter år) until it becomes a part of their pre-Christmas/Advent traditions (er en del av deres før- Community Connections jul/adventstradisjoner) forever (for alltid). Already I have been making wreaths (laget kranser) and Mike and Marianne hanging garland (hengt girlander), but our family open house (åpent hus) weekends (helgene) are not until (er ikke før) the Roberts— two weekends (to helgene) before Christmas (før jul) as many Norwegians still abide by (forsett holder seg til) the “rule” that you wait until it is almost Christmas (venter til det er “Gratulerer så mye med nesten jul) before setting up (setter opp) your tree. We are an- 50 års bryllupsdag!” ticipating (vi forventer) that the weekend right before Christ- mas (rett før jul) will be the busy (travelt) one. Happy 50th Anniversary Emily asked (spurte) if we set up a tree (setter opp et tre), and the answer (svaret) is yes, although it is more than on December 26th! likely at the last minute (i siste minutt) and is a tree we have cut but haven’t sold (har hogget men ikke solgt). Regardless We love you. (uavhengig) of when the tree goes up (settes opp), it always smells like Christmas (lukter det alltid jul) in our house in Kirsten, Matt, Trevor, Nicole, December because WE smell like spruce (vi lukter gran) and our house is filled with the smells of baking (fylt med luktene Mylie, and Owen av bakervarer). (plus Shi Shi and Zoe) norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 11 Christmas Lefse helps families A Slooper Christmas stick together Generations reunite for food and heritage

Solveig Lee er were in a crate on the back of the wagon. Mount Vernon, Wash. His mother walked the cow so that she kept going. In the summer of 1896, they began to The day was Saturday, November 22, make a sod house. In the spring, they built a 2014, just before Thanksgiving. As in years lumber “shanty” to use for storage. of the past, family members arrived at the The family’s next move was to Wash- home of Eugene and Marie Swanson in the ington state and a home by Liberty Bay and Nookachamps near Mount Vernon, Wash- Poulsbo, Washington. The year was 1913 ington. Once again, about 30 family mem- when the Olsen family moved to Mount bers—children, grandchildren, and their Vernon. At first, they lived on a farm near spouses—arrived to make lefse, as well as Avon. Through the years, they witnessed learn a bit of their heritage. many changes, such as coal-oil lamps used Photo courtesy of Ivitek Publishing Eugene’s mother was Hilda. Her parents in the house, coal-oil lanterns in the barn. By Current site of the Cleng Peerson house in Kendall, N.Y. were Albert and Pauline Olsen. As a toddler, 1915, a small rural telephone company with Eugene loved to see his mother make, then a 10-party line came to be. Bill Injerd he could sample, those Norwegian good- Through his adult years, Eugene worked Ivitek Publishing ies—fattigmand, krumkake, and lefse—as in construction. He built many schools and well as lutefisk. She made potato lefse and houses in Mount Vernon. He is especially “In this manner the first Norwegian nowhere, we hain’t got no land.” occasionally, a special lefse called krina proud of the construction of First Lutheran settlement in modern times came to be es- So, how did the Sloopers celebrate their lefse. Eugene never made it himself, but he Church in that town. tablished in America. It was a tiny island of first Christmas in the New World? Would the could see to it that family would learn to do So has been a life well lived. Heritage people in a forest—an island in a but newly American neighbors have their own special so. and acceptances of challenges are but a joy. settled area where the people spoke a dif- way of celebrating the Yuletide season? We Eugene’s heritage stems to a small vil- As Eugene watched his mother make ferent language. Yet it was a magnet which really don’t know for sure, but it is likely lage called Fagervik in Helgeland, Nord- lefse when he was young, he continues to was to start drawing more Norwegians from they were trying to work out how they will land. It was a village located between the watch his children, his grandchildren, and across the sea, until these, ever increasing, make it through the cold season of upstate ocean and a high mountain. His grandfather, even great-grandchildren enjoy that which had swelled by the year 1915 to a number New York. Albert, was a fisherman who went to Lofo- has been filled with happiness. equal to nearly one third the entire popula- It wasn’t long into December 1825 that ten and Finnemarken and other areas to fish, Now the family makes potato lefse. tion of Norway.” tragedy nearly struck. The Cornelius and often being gone for months at a time. The They bought 60 pounds of Skagit County So wrote J. Hart Rosdail, in his classic Kari Nilson (Nelson) family lived in a house women and children were left home to care potatoes. On Saturday night before the book The Sloopers: Their Ancestry and Pos- where “a large portion of their gifts unfor- for family and the animals. The year was event, they peeled potatoes and cooked terity in 1961. The year was 1825, and winter tunately went up in flames” while Cornelius 1893 when Albert decided that all of the them. When the potatoes were cold, they in the new world was about to be upon them was away at work. When he arrived home, family should leave Norway and emigrate to were mashed. After adding a little butter to in upstate New York. he saw his family outside standing while oth- America. A friend in America paid his pas- the mixture, they formed balls and put them Winter was just indeed beginning for ers looked upon what was left. A total loss. sage. In America, Albert worked to pay for in the refrigerator overnight. On Saturday these early Norwegian immigrants. These When Cornelius connected with Kari, he that passage, then earned money for the tick- morning, the family’s gathering took place. are the pioneers who traveled to America in asked her “Are all the children safe?” “Yes,” ets for his wife and three children. In the group that met in Mount Vernon a 54-foot sloop, the Restauration, beginning she answered. He immediately knelt down In April of 1894, therefore, Hilda, who was one member who came all the way from their voyage on July 4, 1825, from Stavan- and thanked God for his kindness in preserv- was then six years old, left her homeland and Florida. The home place was not the only ger, Norway, and sailed across the Atlantic ing his wife and children. traveled steerage on the ship that landed in place the family met. Granddaughter Dana Ocean in the middle of hurricane season The lost Christmas gifts, if there were New York City. They traveled on the train Grange, Eugene and Marie’s granddaugh- to the harbor of New York City, arriving ever many, were not on the minds of the Nil- to Chicago, then on to Granite Falls, Min- ter, who had always been a member of the on October 9. Starting in Norway with 52 sons. What a wonderful gift each of the first nesota. The final part of the journey—10 group, now lives in Calgary, Alberta. Nancy, people aboard, they landed in America with Norwegian-Americans indeed had for their miles—was by horse and wagon. Eugene, and Marie’s daughter, flew to Cal- one more: a baby girl born in the middle of first Christmas: the precious gift of LIFE! In 1896, Albert moved to North Dakota, gary to make lefse with her daughter, and the Atlantic to Lars and Martha Larsen. Be- The Nelson family went on to settle, as where he filed for a 160-acre homestead. granddaughters ages four and two. All they cause they arrived in a small sloop, consid- did other “Sloopers,” in the Fox River settle- With a team of horses, a wagon, and one had to do was skype. With the help of tech- ered much too small to travel across a major ment in Illinois. Kari, also known as Carrie, colt, the family took off for their next home. nology, all were together like one big happy ocean, these immigrants called themselves was Cleng’s niece. Roads are said to have been merely trails that family. “Sloopers.” Each year, the modern-day descendants followed the Sioux Line railroad. The cow Yes, the love for Norway and that which According to Rosdail, housing was tight of the Sloopers meet together in Norway, Il- was behind the wagon. Chickens and a roost- is Norwegian lives on. that first winter resulting in 24 living under linois, around the date closest to that October one roof—one room for that matter. It was 9th arrival date to share a meal and reminisce said that the house was “twelve by twelve about the stories of these early Norwegian feet, with a garret giving them just a square pioneers. The Slooper Society recently re- foot apiece on each floor.” It was probably leased the newest “Collector’s Edition” of J. the house that Cleng Peerson put up earlier Hart Rosdail’s The Sloopers—a beautiful re- in the Murray (or Kendall) settlement of Or- production of the original 1961 book. Many leans County, although he thought of build- within the Society purchased several copies ing another house before the winter set in. as Christmas gifts, to remind themselves of That likely didn’t happen. the sacrifices their ancestors made for the Cleng is considered the “Norwegian future generations. What a story to pass on! Moses” to these pioneers, and will continue to lead them further west in the future. Since Copies of “The Sloopers: Their Ancestry he was the only one who could speak Eng- and Posterity” can be purchased from The lish, the Norwegian settlers relied on him Slooper Society by sending a check or money heavily to help them adjust in the new land. order for $87.00 ($78.00 + 9.00 shipping With the help of American neighbors, & handling) to: The Sloopers Book, c/o the Sloopers survived the winter of 1825. Al- The Slooper Society, 1821 15th St., Peru, though the Norwegians families were not as IL 61354. For those ordering from Canada, well off as many of the neighbors, they were send a check or money order for the amount well respected. Someone once asked a little of CAN$106.00 ($94.00 + 12.00 shipping & Norwegian boy whose father happened to be handling). It is also available online through Photo: Keith Swanson too poor to own land, where his father lived. their website (www.SlooperSociety.org) or 60 pounds of potatoes and 30 family members make this lefse special. The youngster answered, “O we don’t live through Amazon.com 12 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly christmas Lefse as legacy < arrival From page 1

mold set out on the best white linen. Determined not to lose this link to what Rounds of warmed lefse, speckled with little tradition we had, my mother and I set whimsical galaxies of beige and tan polka out to make lefse on our own. A few days dots from the griddle, were swaddled in Sun- before Christmas, we’d take out the recipe day napkins and stacked on our best Spode. written in Tilly’s shaky hand on a piece of There they were before us, waiting to be blue-lined stationery. She’d bequeathed us seized and sprinkled with sugar. her old wooden roller and the lefse stick that Finally, the lutefisk was borne in, with as Ole had whittled for her. I had never dealt much pomp as if it were a gilded pheasant, or with the basic ingredients, and marveled that a roast boar with an apple in its mouth. Gray- such delicacy came from plain old potatoes. ish and steaming, the humble fare would be Spurred on by our singular pursuit of set proudly in front of Grandpa. He’d brush better and better lefse, my mother and I went his big moustache aside, tuck a napkin un- looking for other displaced Norwegian- der his chin, and deftly scoop up a shapeless Americans, and found a “new” old world: hunk. He’d prod us to taste it, pushing the lodges, newspapers, merchants, churches, odorous tureen our way. We’d make faces folk-dancers, visiting royalty, language and roll up more lefse. classes, bunads, literature, lefse-making par- “Nei, you’re not good Norskies,” he ties, and journeys back to Norway itself. My would grunt, playfully leering at us with his Mom and I got to be pretty good Norskies! remarkably piercing blue eyes. But the time came when I was left to I didn’t want to displease my grandfa- make lefse alone. Mine came out too thick, ther, but the way I saw it then, there were and were never as round as Grandma’s, but only two ways to prove oneself to be a good I persevered, reminding myself that she had Norskie, and both were sitting on the table rolled out thousands and thousands in her before us. I loved the one, spurned the other, time. Tusen takk, Mor-Mor. and never thought much about the origins, Lefse is a cherished food of childhood the traditions, the labors, or the ultimate memory. If it hadn’t been for lefse, which value these simple items served in our lives. unknowingly sustained my faltering sense of Ole and Tillie were born in America, the Norwegian identity over the years, I would children of mid-19th century Norwegian im- have lost all connection to my heritage, and migrants, and while they were good Ameri- not been able to pass it on. Lefse has been a Photo: TINE Mediebank cans, they still lived immersed in a virtually link, a symbol and a magnet, drawing me to Lefse is more than a food—for some it is a connection to Norwegian identity. Norwegian dimension. others who grew up loving it—Norwegian- My family moved to California, and American boomers, all of us wanting more. my house on Christmas Eve. They bound in I stare off into the December night. “I’m of course, Ole and Tillie stayed on in their More knowledge. More recipes. More words the door and first thing out of their mouths waiting for someone to arrive,” I murmur. Norwegian-speaking community. Sensing and prayers in Norwegian. is “You got lefse?” I tell them stories, about How can I tell them that I’m half expecting our need for connection, Grandma mailed The renewable relic of our grandparents’ Christmas in Minnesota, and make them the front door to burst open, and the bearers us packages of lefse every Christmas. Then, time, it was lefse that gently bound us back practice the old Norwegian table prayer. of Norwegian Christmas Eve to come shak- one year, the packages from Minnesota to our roots, and sustained the ancestral soul. The sacred time comes, and as I roll up ing the snow off their coats, their arms full of stopped coming. New generations of children now fill another piece of lefse, a grandchild asks why the endless, endless gifts.

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l July 31, 2015 - - 0058 - Call (800) 305-0217 or email [email protected] uio.no/summerschool June 20 (800)639 God Jul og Godt Nyttår! From the

from the Daughters of Norway

Uniting a sisterhood of women who wish to preserve Norwegian heritage. The Norwegian Immigration Association, Inc. 317 East 52nd Street New York, New York 10022 [email protected] • www.niahistory.org join us at daughtersofnorway.org Preserving the living history of Norwegian immigrants in the New York area norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 13 Christmas A Norwegian Christmas, 1945 from the star at the top to the bottom of the Memories of a tree. The flags are especially beautiful and appreciated after being illegal to display for post-war Jul north the full five years Norway was occupied. We shed our coats because the tall, black of the Arctic Circle parlor stoves on each side of the nave have been well fed with wood. The pipe organ in- Mari-Ann Kind Jackson tones the familiar hymns and Christmas car- Seattle, Wash. ols, and we all sing with loud, happy voices. The minister knows not to make too long It is three o’clock in the afternoon of a sermon; he has children of his own, so December 24, 1945. Christmas Eve in knows how antsy we all are to get home for Borkenes, 200 miles north of the Arctic Cir- dinner and package opening. cle. Norway is at peace; the war is over. The service ends with the church bells I am all dressed up and so is my brother, ringing, and we go out in the cold, dark Pål, my mother and father, as well as my winter afternoon where we are met with the farmor. The house has been cleaned from sight of the hundreds of candles twinkling at the cellar to the second floor. It smells of the base of the gravestones surrounding the grønnsåpe and fresh lacquer on the staircase church. Our spirits are lifted with every clang in the entry. In the kitchen the svineribbe in of the bells and the wishes of “God Jul” from the oven gives off an enticing aroma, and the the families around us, hand in hand walking living room is filled with the fragrance of the each to their homes. The snow comes down Christmas tree, all aglow with the lights. The softly, landing on our cheeks, snow flakes sit day before, on “little Christmas Eve,” my momentarily on our eyelashes and cover my uncle brought the perfect noble fir freshly father’s brows. All the while the church bells cut on my grandparents’ farm, and the whole ring—they ring for a whole hour. family decorated the tree while singing At home, the others walk inside to the Christmas songs along with the radio. The Photo: Dean Jarvey / Flickr warmth, but I stand on the snow-covered same radio that was hidden in the root cellar, Church steeple in winter. When all the bells in Norway ring together, the holiday spirit is everywhere. porch alone, looking at the Advent stars in illegally, during the five years of WWII. the village homes, listening to the church Mother has made hot chocolate to go to start walking to the church so we will be rounding the church, families are gathered to bells. With every cell in my body feeling sure with the plate of cookies on the coffee table, there in time for the Barnegudstjeneste, and place candles and lanterns on the graves of I can hear every bell from every church in the and in the dining room, the bowl filled with don’t forget the candles.” We walk in deep their relatives buried there. We put candles whole country, from Kirkenes to Lindesnes. oranges and gravenstein apples gives off a snow to the white wooden church at the top on the graves of our grandfather and great I am part of the whole, part of the Christmas special “Christmas smell.” of the hill. It is already dark, and the Advent grandparents. Then the heavy church doors peace that I am sure every single person in “Time to put on the coats, hats, scarves, star shines brightly in the window of every open to reveal a huge Christmas tree with all of Norway feels as they also hear their boots, and mittens” says mother. “We have home along the road. In the cemetery sur- real candles, Norwegian flags in long strands church bells ringing in Christmas.

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28145NAC R12-14 14 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly christmas First annual Twin Cities Julefest is a sellout

Leslee Lane Hoyum Rockford, Minn.

The first annual Twin Cities Julefest was a sellout. “Back in August,” said Jørn Rem- mem, committee chair, “we thought an ex- ceptional showing would be 100 people cel- ebrating our first event. We were overjoyed to have 200 in attendance! The committee was outstanding and I credit it for our suc- cessful event.” Guests experienced a great variety of Norwegian traditions, including an akevitt tasting station, a Norwegian Christmas carol sing-along, beautiful piano music provided by Bill Wangensteen, a smashing buffet of Nordic delicacies created by Soile Anderson, owner of Deco Catering, a charming Moods of Norway julenisse, an abundance of door prizes, and a hilarious video called “Dinner for One,” which is very popular in Norway during the holidays. And, as a holiday send- off, all guests received a piece of salmon Photos courtesy of Leslee Lane Hoyum Above: 200 people celebrated the holidays and were thrilled with the buffet. from A Taste of Norway. Left: The akevitt Station was a great success under the leadership of Ingrid The committee wishes to thank its sup- Serck-Hanssen (right). porters, including the Norwegian American Below: The 2014 Julefest Committee present bags of salmon from A Taste of Chamber of Commerce—Upper Midwest Norway to all guests as they departed. From left to right are Marit Krings- Chapter, Norway House, Royal Norwegian tad, Britt De Lange Ardakani, Jana Aune Deach, Sarah Halvorson Brunko, Honorary Consulate General, Sons of Nor- Christina Carleton, Anna Stoltenberg, Anna Kvinge, Jørn Remmem, Leslee way, Torske Klubben, Lakselaget, Mind- Lane Hoyum, Linda Pederson, and Ethan Bjelland. Not pictured are Ingrid ekirken, Norwegians Worldwide, Moods of Serck-Hanssen and Steinar Berg. Norway, Norwegian American Weekly, City of Sarpsborg, Norway, Old Dutch Foods, Concordia Language Villages, RMC Inter- national, Ingebretsen’s, A Taste of Norway, and Gamle Ode.

Photos courtesy of Leslee Lane Hoyum Left: Sarah Halvorson Brunko, committee member, and Ethan Bjelland, Moods of Norway, were terrific emcees. Ethan also was a hit as the julenisse. Right: Lakselaget members were out in force. From left to right are Kay Shores, Catherine Solheim, Karen Gusaas, Pamela Romness-Jambeck, Randy, and Leann Tatge. God Jul God Jul og Godt Nyttår God Jul to all of our og Godt Nyttår! to our Sons of Norway volunteers, members, family in Districts 2 & 6 & supporters The Krippaehne Family Asbjorn & Barbara Rostad Scandinavian East Coast Museum Seattle, Wash. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Brooklyn, N.Y.

God Jul og Godt God Jul & Godt God Jul og Godt God Jul og Godt God Jul og Godt Nyttår! Nyttår! Nyttår Nyttår til familie Nyttår! From all of us at Kim and Krystn Magne & og venner Line Grundstad Hanke NAW Nesselquist Berit Nes Anne K. Vatshell Interior Design Happy holidays! Kenmore, Wash. Edmonds, Wash. Tumwater, Wash. Seattle, Wash.

Merry Christmas! Let Øyvind Bredland, Gledelig Jul og us all support our takk for et fantastisk Godt Nyttår til alle Norwegian Institutions! bra år kjære Finn and Georgia Roed Whitney Love Thordis & David Moe West Bloomfield, Mich. Stavanger, Norway Sun City, Calif. norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 15 Christmas In photos: Jul celebrations around the country

Photos courtesy of Leslee Lane Hoyum Above: Ole and Christina Koppang. Ole is the vice president of the NACC, Upper Midwest Chapter. Above center: Bill Wangensteen, a member of Mindekirken, provided exceptional back- ground music throughout the evening.

Photos: Eleanor Froiland Andrews Right: Evelyn Maxwell, granddaughter of Maine Nordmenn charter member Elsie Maxwell, takes part in her first St. Lucia pageant at the lodge’s annual Julefest, on December 6, 2014. Below: Mitchell and Ella Steed wait for Santa at the Maine Nordmenn Julefest in Brunswick, Maine.

Photos: William DeRoche Top: Dancers twirl at the Washington, D.C., Christmas Bazaar. Middle: NAW’s own Christine Meloni sells books—a subject on which she’s an expert! Above: The bazaar had all manner of treats, including a wide selection of Norwegian candy.

Immanuel — God Ønsker om en with us — God Jul Merry Christmas God Jul og et Dr. Bjarne & Sverre and Susan Godt Nyttår Marie Gabrielsen Aasgaarden Vita & Lloyd Davies Punta Gorda, Fla. Lackawaxen, Penn. Sequim, Wash.

Merry Christmas and Merry God Jul og Godt God Jul! a Blessed New Year! Christmas! God Jul Nyttår! Rita & Roy Paul & Lorraine Jorgensen Grimsbo Oliver H. Simonson Magnhild Thoresen Kae Ellingsen Hopewell Junction, Lake Mills, Iowa Marysville, Wash. Lynwood, Wash. Ballard, Wash. N.Y.

God Jul og Godt God Jul og Godt God Jul Nyttår! Nyttår til Alle Venner! og Godt Nyttår! Sons of Norway Jorunn og Helge Johansen Vesterdalen Lodge 2-131 Odd og Lilleborg Galschiodt Tacoma, Wash. Kent/Auburn, Wash. Garden Grove, Calif. 16 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly christmas

Photos: Solveig Lee Photos: Keith Swanson Top: The Nyhammers—Jergen, Sven, and Eva. Sven loved to buy raffle tickets and give them to the chil- Top: No one is too young to make lefse. dren and grandchildren. Above: Marie Swanson forms balls for lefse-making at her family’s lefse-fest and reunion. Above: At Norway Park’s Jul Bord, all dined at tables surrounding the Christmas tree. See story on page 10. God Jul og Godt Nyttår from

The Crew at Olaf’s

6301 24th Ave NW • Seattle, Washington • (206) 297-6122 www.olafsballard.com Find us on Facebook! norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 17 Christmas

Photos: Tim Hunter Left: A gaggle of PLU students attended the Seattle NACC’s Julebord. Above: Doug Dixon, winner of the Seattle NACC’s Person of the Year award, uses the award for skåling.

Photo: Tim Hunter Kim Nesselquist, Consul of Norway in Seattle (right), with his wife Krystn (second from left) Photo: Line Grundstad Hanke and daughter Elise, along with PLU students Mathias F. Munkefjord and Lauritz Kittelson. Norske Kvinner Seattle’s Julebord.

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To catch the perfect gift for your friends & relatives, special customers, business associates or employees call Inge at 425.455.0732 or order online at www.anthonys.com 18 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly christmas Ole the Troll & the Christmas Star An original holiday tale by NAW’s own Larrie Wanberg

In the beginning there was a cottonwood Knife River there, where the waters flow into scary but smiley face. Then the seed floating high in the sky above the ocean the Great Missouri. The Indians welcomed ears … the shoulders … then waves. The tiny seed carried the spirit of a him as if he were human and called him a short body, with big, big family of cottonwoods from Norway that “One Leg.” feet—feet that seemed locked were known to sometimes have Trolls hid- As a sapling, Ole planted himself next together. ing inside. Trolls sometimes took the form of to an Indian village where lodges were built “It’s a troll!” he yelped. As gigantic trees rather than stones. from large cottonwoods that were home to the last swipe of the chain saw This seedling was looking for troll rel- both families and horses. One day, he saw freed the long tail, the troll fell free atives on his journey to see the world. On men with soldier caps cutting logs to build a of the tree, and he stood up, tall—as tall send-off, his family of cottonwoods chanted: fort nearby. The men took some of the largest as a three-foot chunk of cottonwood could “Follow your star!” cottonwoods to make into dugout canoes— be. The westerly winds blew extra strong dozens of them. “I’ll call him Ole,” he said. Ole across the North Pole to North America and After snows came, Ole was startled and was impressed that the carver had got- suddenly stopped above the center of the shaken by three canon volleys from Fort ten it right. The man took him home continent. The billowy seed drifted down to Mandan, as the nearby fort was called. It was and placed him as a sentinel by his earth, like a spiraling parachute, and picked Christmas Day (1804) and everyone was cel- doorstep. “Greet people!” he told the a soft spot to land. ebrating. Ole thrived for months as the In- Troll. Where he landed, a large family of cot- dians and the American expedition spent the One day, the rains began and didn’t tonwoods had settled. Indians lived along the winter together, sharing food and shelter and let up. People began to murmur that Ole had no se- exchanging stories. A torrent of rushing water picked Ole up cret. Over the following years, Ole and carried him downstream for miles and The boy knew the secret since wash- gradually grew into a large cotton- miles. His nose stood out of the water like a ing off the mud at the campsite. The par- wood tree that served as a beacon periscope as he went with the flow. He felt ents helped him research Cottonwood DNA for immigrant families to seek sad that he would never see the carver again. through a forestry specialist, tracing his roots shelter while crossing the prai- After hours and hours, he got entangled back to Norway and migrating to a settlement rie. Many played familiar mu- in thickets of driftwood and was stuck. He along the Missouri River across the Plains, sic and talked of trolls, like he cried out to see if any of the logs were Trolls. where only this species with heart-shaped remembered from years back. Everything was silent. As the water receded, leaves and medicinal bark was known. They did not know that he was the thicket began turning to crusty mud and The storekeeper called the mayor of listening. entrapping him. Solvang. They agreed to unveil the secret Large numbers of Ole’s A young boy camping with his family at a Christmas event in the Hans Christian family of cottonwoods were on higher ground came to the water’s edge Andersen Park and to have Ole ride with the cut down for logs that, in turn, and began poking a stick into the thicket. He mayor in the passenger seat in the official car were used to build houses on saw this strange stubby branch sticking out at the Christmas parade the next morning. the prairie. Many trolls were from the mud. He began grabbing Ole’s nose At the Christmas event at the Park, the trapped in the logs, but pre- and rocking it back and forth until his whole boy stood on a stage next to Ole with a mi- ferred to be a part of a human form broke free from the mud. He ran to get crophone in his hand. house than firewood in the his father. Together, they pulled Ole out of He told his story of finding Ole buried in fireplace. the mire and carried him to the campfire. mud along the Missouri River, and when he One day many years later, The boy pleaded to clean him up and washed him off, he discovered a star shape a man with a chainsaw in take him home to California with them. at the top of Ole’s head that ran through his hand approached the tree, “He’ll have to ride on the luggage rack,” the body like a spine and showed again under his checked its straightness, and father said. feet. saw something unusual. Ole never had such a ride—watching The boy took off Ole’s hat, rocked him One of the stubby branch- the Rocky Mountains pass by, starring into forward for the audience to see. The star es, only a few inches long, the night sky, and thoroughly drying out shape on Ole’s scalp was well defined, like sticking out from the bark across the desert. When the family returned a tattoo, a rusty red in color, and clearly was reminded him of a strange to their home in Solvang, Ole heard Troll the core of his being. The audience clapped. nose in a storybook from his music again. He felt at home in Solvang, He tilted Ole backwards to reveal the childhood in Norway. a Danish storybook town with a statute of star under his feet. The children cheered, as He cranked up the chain- Hans Christian Andersen in the central park. the boy hugged Ole and rocked him gently, saw and carefully began to “Trolls are welcome here,” he said to himself side to side, as if dancing. carve around it with the saw’s with a sigh of relief. The father joined in and spoke into the sharp teeth … watching not to The owners were shopkeepers of a mike, “An Indian story tells of a curious lit- nick a tiny seedling growing quaint gift shop on Main Street. They dressed tle star in the heavens that came to earth and out from the end of a stubby up Ole in a cap, scarf, and banner to wel- hid in a cottonwood tree to always be near branch, pointing upward like a come customers into the store. They placed a people. A curious little Norwegian troll did miniature tree. poster by him, announcing a contest. “Guess the same. Trolls can be on journeys like peo- The sound of the Ole’s secret and win a prize,” the sign said. A ple, you know. After following his own star chainsaw made the cot- slip of paper was supplied for people to enter across the world, Ole’s journey ends here, tonwood shiver, but he their guess into the contest. where he is a star with our family.” began to feel a sense of Ole became the talk of the town. Tour- “So,” he added, “when you see a star on freedom. ists would take photos hugging Ole. Guesses the top of a Christmas tree, remember the Photo: Britt Wanberg Soon, the form of a galore filled the bucket, but nobody got it journey of Ole and his secret of an internal Ole the Troll looking sharp in overalls. face began to show—a right. The contest went on until Christmas. star.” Celebrating Holiday Joys and Traditions Varmeste Julehilsener ingebretsens.com fra Den Norske Glee Club of Minneapolis Member Chorus of the Norwegian Singers Association of America For more information, contact President Herb Nelson INGEBRETSEN’S Phone: (651) 587-4819 | Email: [email protected] Scandinavian Gifts and Food On the web: www.norwegiangleeclub.com Minneapolis, Minnesota • 800-279-9333 norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 19

A monthly feature to share Brought to you by with kids and grandkids BarnebladBarneblad Heidi Håvan Grosch Celebrate the Snowman Make a snowman: snowman songs: Whether you have snow or not this Christmas, it is still fun to make a Here is a poem to use as you put the parts on the snowman. You can find snowman. I have been working with second graders in Norway. We’ve learned many versions on YouTube if you look for “I’m a little snowman.” (Sung to the some poems about a Snowman, so I MADE my own snowman costume! It is tune of “I’m a little teapot”). easy. Here are the directions: I’m a little snowman round and fat 1. Take an old curtain or sheet Here are my eyes, big and black and cut a hole in the top (ask an Add a smiling mouth, and a carrot nose adult first!) I stand so tall when the cold wind blows. 2. Cut out the eyes and mouth from a dark fabric (I used part of a I'm a little snowman round and fat pair of old black jeans). Here are my mittens, here is my hat 2. Cut out a nose from orange Add a little scarf (round your middle it goes) or red fabric. It is best if the fabric is I stand so tall when the cold wind blows. stiff. If not, use iron-on interfacing to (make a “whooshing” wind sound when you get to the wind part) make it stiffer, or sew many layers of fabric together. 3. Attach Velcro to both the sheet body and the face parts. 4. Now you can build your own Photo: Heidi Håvan Grosch snowman over and over again. Portrait of the artist as a snowman.

snowman quiz:

6. 12% 6.

Quizzes are very popular in Norway. pink. be can snow the Island, ward

Here is one for you! Ed- Prince like soil, red with places In

1. What is the Norwegian name gray. was snow the factories, from

for Frosty the Snowman? pollution smoke of lot a way there

2. Which popular recent chil- when era Victorian the In No. 5.

dren’s movie has the song “Skal vi 2008. in Maine, Bethel, in woman

lage snømann?” snow- meter) (37 122-foot a was ed

3. Who made the first snowman? record- snowman largest The 4.

4. How big was the biggest snow- Ages. Middle

man ever built? the from snowmen of images are Photo: Micky / Wikimedia Commons

5. Is snow always white? there But knows. really one No 3.

6. What percent of the earth’s Frozen. movie the from man” Here is another snowman poem that my Norwegian second graders like.

surface is covered permanently in a snow- a build to want you “Do 2. Snow Pal Song (sung to the tune of “Frere Jacques”)

layer of snow? mannen-kalle/#.VIWaQkvVQ3Q) Great big ball, great big ball (Make your arms into a big circle)

owga a: julesanger.com/sno- at: Norwegian Made of snow, made of snow (Wiggle your fingers like it is snowing)

1. Snømannen Kalle (words in in (words Kalle Snømannen 1. Rolling down the street (Roll your hands over each other) Answers: Landing at my feet (Stomp your feet) Great big ball, great big ball.

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Donald V. Mehus years. A few yards away stands the thor- New York oughly modern town hall.

Christmas in Norway! The very words Christmas Eve at Solhaug evoke images of a winter wonderland of Late afternoon of Christmas Eve we had pine-clad, snow-decked mountains; quiet a delicious traditional Christmas dinner. First villages nestled in scenic valleys; cozy course was—what else? —lutefisk and lefse. homes and the gathering of families; a time It was the best lutefisk I had ever had—tasty, to rest, relax, and enjoy the holiday season. delicate, yet firm of texture. We had a good For this Norwegian-American one visit over the main course—meatballs and memorable December, the images became pork, peas and carrots, potatoes, pickles and the reality. Some time ago while studying sweet preserves, wonderful homemade flat- at the University of Oslo, I was invited to brød (much better than the kind one can buy spend the Christmas holidays with relatives in stores, as good as that is), and finally for at my ancestral home, the small village of dessert, a fruit pudding with cream. Hol in Hallingdal, lying in the mountains After dinner we relaxed in the living midway between Oslo and Bergen. room (peisstue), listening to Christmas mu- Here was one place where "the twelve sic, musing, and dreaming as snow drifted Photo: Donald V. Mehus days of Christmas" were more than mere slowly outside. Cousin Aagot (Erik's wife) Festive Christmas-time dinner in Hol with relatives. words of a traditional juletide song. lit the candles on the Christmas tree. A real Nearly everyone in Norway, it seems, Christmas spirit pervaded the dwelling. a hard time deciding where to begin, wanting would not have bothered to invent skiing in tries to take off for a long holiday, from just to try everything. the first place.) before Christmas till a day or two after New Coffee and Tasty Desserts Late Christmas morning Aagot, Erik, Erik found a pair of skis and poles in the Year's. As though officially to sanction this, Later we had coffee along with mouth- and I walked the mile or so by a rushing barn for me, we bundled up warmly, and set the Norwegians have special names for vari- watering pastry. I never ceased to marvel at mountain stream to attend Christmas ser- off. I was still something of a novice on skis, ous days—lille juleaften ("little Christmas the tastiness, variety, and plenitude of these vice in New Church. The simple but attrac- and Erik proved to be an excellent teacher. It Eve") on December 23, in addition to Christ- "småkaker." Wherever we visited relatives tive church was nearly filled with several was a fine day—the firm snow a foot deep, mas Eve, first and second Christmas Day, during the next week or so, we were always hundred parishioners. A number of men and the weather clear, brisk, and bright. etc. Then, of course comes New Year's Eve, served coffee and "småkaker." women wore their regional Hallingdrakt At an easy pace we zigzagged up the New Year's Day—and a day or two later the That Juleaften Margit and Aagot gra- (Halling dress). The service continued for mountain, the view becoming more and twelve days of Christmas draw to a close. ciously served nine or ten different kinds nearly two hours with prayers and Bible more spectacular as we went. We found a ski of cakes and cookies and other pastries—a readings, choir anthems and no fewer than trail, and back down we went. Oslo to Hallingdal sweet lefse with sugar and butter, romme- eight congregational hymns, as well as a On the morning of Christmas Eve, I brød (one of my special favorites—a paper- substantial sermon. My Norwegian was a bit Tante Anna—and Folk og Fortid I Hol left Oslo for the several-hour-long trip west thin pastry, crisp and sweet and flaky, like the shaky at the time, I must confess, but I am Erik and I ended up near Gamleheimen through the mountains and valleys to Hol. top of a pie crust, only better), kringla, fattig- sure that the sermon was most enlightening. (Old People’s Home), where we stopped to Soon after we departed from Oslo, I was man, two or three kinds of cake, and several Back home at Solhaug in mid-afternoon, visit our great aunt, Tante Anna. Then in her happy to meet some university friends on the sorts of sweet, rich cookies. we had our Christmas Day dinner—as beau- 80s, she was lively with a good sense of hu- train. This is one thing you soon discover in tifully prepared and delicious as one soon mor. Many years ago she had immigrated to Norway: when you begin to meet Norwe- Arrival of the Julenisse came to expect in the homes of Hallingdal. the U.S., but after a few years she returned to gians, you keep running into them all the When we finished our coffee, we opened The rest of the afternoon we continued to the mountains of her beloved Norway. time. And when you have become acquaint- presents, which had been arranged around relax (I became impressed at how much ev- The same evening we paid a visit to ed with a number of them, you are sure to the Christmas tree. Erik served as the Ju- eryone managed to relax at Christmastime), other relatives, Sigurd S. Reinton and Einar find that you have friends in common. Nor- lenisse, bringing us each our presents in turn. visit, hear good music, write Christmas cards Reinton. Sigurd and his brother, Dr. Philos. way has vast distances and widely separated The presents were articles of clothing, (I don't know about others, but I never seem Lars Reinton, had long been historians of communities, but the people do seem to get useful household objects, humorous yet to finish mine before the holiday arrives), Hol Community. In a project that had taken around a lot. Perhaps it has something to do practical items, decorative pieces, books, etc. and do odds and ends around the house. some 40 years, they had prepared a series with the far-roaming Vikings! I think the favorite present I received was an of volumes on the history and people of the old wooden bowl carved and painted in Hal- Skiing Expedition area, entitled Folk og Fortid i Hol. I was fas- Arrival in Hol, Hallingdal lingdal, with a lovely rosemaling design. The morning of our "andre juledag" cinated to read about my own family history, Late that afternoon my cousin Erik Hau- (Second Christmas Day), Erik, Aagot, and I going back to the mid-1400s. Their multi- gen met my train at Hol Station, way up on Christmas Day prepared for our first skiing expedition. How volume work is considered one of the finest the mountainside, with a magnificent view Christmas Day at Solhaug was quiet different it was from skiing in America! We regional histories in Norway. If you would for many miles around. and restful. Breakfast was the traditional simply went out the door, strapped on skis, like to research this work on this side of the There being no taxi available and the smørgåsbord, an abundance of food served and away we went up the mountainside. Atlantic, a copy may be found in the library family car otherwise engaged, we loaded my with cups and cups of steaming coffee. Here (One Norwegian friend of mine remarked of the Norwegian American Historical Asso- luggage onto a "spark"—a sled with a chair- were three or four kinds of bread with plenty that if they had to go to all the trouble Amer- ciation in Northfield, Minnesota. like seat and high handles extending above of creamy, home-churned butter; geitost and icans did to go skiing—shopping for it—and down the snowy mountain road we gulost and roquefort; eggs and anchovies; expensive equipment, traveling Cousin Osvald and Family went to the home of my cousins and their several kinds of meat and sausage; straw- hours to a ski resort, paying The dinners, visits, and parties continued mother, Margit Reinton. There at Solhaug berry jam and cherry preserves; high hotel rates, waiting during the ensuing days. On the third Christ- (Sunny Hill) I was warmly welcomed by the and more. Though I had been in for ski lifts, et al.—then mas Day, I visited Cousin Osvald Medhus family and immediately served a refreshing, Norway for some time, I still had Norwegians (why different branches of the family spell tangy, non-alcoholic home-brewed "beer." the last name with or without a “d” is another The town of Hol lies on the edge of a story) and his wife Aslaug. Their ten-month- large lake in the Hallingdal valley. From old daughter radiated much joy. To her par- both sides of this long lake, Holsfjorden, ents I remarked that “Hun er så frisk og sunt mountains rise steeply to a plateau, and then og flink!” (She is so lively and healthy and the terrain rises still higher to mountains be- bright!) Whereupon the child, looking right yond. Homes and farms are perched along at me, broke into the happiest smile. We all the mountainsides. Past and present inter- laughed, and I said, “Hun forstår alt!” (She mingle in a certain harmony: some of the understands everything!) buildings, of traditional Norwegian design, Much more could be written about the date back many years; other edifices, recent- visits and reunions, the parties and dinners, ly constructed, are up-to-date in all respects. the walks and ski trips, the people of Hal- At the center of the town is Gamle lingdal and their warm hospitality. It was Kyrkje (Old Church), a picturesque wooden Photo: Donald V. Mehus truly a memorable twelve days of Christmas structure, parts of which date back some 800 Hol’s snow-decked Gamle Church (Old Church), parts of which are some 800 years old. in Hallingdal, the very heart of Norway. norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 21 connections & Religion Pastor Larson’s Corner In Loving Memory Pastor Jerry Larson retired to his cabin in Zimmerman, Minn., after 39 years Do you have a loved one or friend who has recently passed? in parish ministry for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. In 2011 he Contact us at (206) 784-4617 or [email protected] to place an obituary. published a book entitled “Speaking the Word Freely: Writing with purpose, preaching with power.” Contact him at [email protected] Allan Ove Guberud May 29, 1929 – October 24, 2014 Reflecting Christ’s light Allan Ove Guberud, 85, of La Crosse When I hung Christmas lights on the God has chosen to let it shine through us. passed away Friday, October 24, 2014, at railing around my outdoor deck this year, In and of itself the light of Christ is Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center due they looked pretty good but it seemed like bright and beautiful. God did not need us to complications from a stroke he suffered something was missing. Then a few days to work the miracle of Christmas. We are on October 18; up until then he had lived later we received a few inches of new not a replacement for the light of Christ in a healthy and full life. He was born in La snow that covered the lights. I realized im- the world. Rather, we reflect the light of Crosse, Wisconsin, on May 29, 1929, to Ove mediately how much the lights needed the Christ’s love in the world. As we make the and Agnes (Kirkeeng) Guberud. He enlisted snow to really look great. The snowflakes light of Christ’s love known in the world, in the U.S. Army in March of 1951 serving served as tiny reflectors of the light. By re- we make His light shine brighter and ever during the Korean War and was honorably flecting the light the snow made the lights more beautifully. discharged in March of 1953. On October bright and beautiful. During the Christmas season we have 24, 1953, Allan married his Sweetheart, El- At the beginning of the Christmas sto- many wonderful opportunities to reflect verda Johnson and they celebrated 61 years ry in John’s Gospel we read these words the light of Christ in the world. We do so of marriage. concerning John the Baptist. “He himself when we open our hearts to the needs of Allan enjoyed playing the piano and lis- was not the light, but he came to testify those around us and generously give to tening to 40’s and 50’s Jazz music. He was to the light.” Like John the Baptist we are help others have a good Christmas. We a constant volunteer at Norskadalan Norwe- called to testify to the light of Christ and also reflect the light of Christ in our homes gian Heritage Center, serving for over 20 when we do we become reflectors of that and families as we share the wonderful years. He loved his wife, children, grand- light. Like the thousands of snowflakes good news of Jesus’s birth. The light of the children, and great grandchildren and was on my deck, we reflect the light of Christ world, Jesus Christ our Lord, has come. very proud of all of them. in the world and make it truly bright and When we reflect that light in our lives, we Allan is survived by his loving wife, El- beautiful. This is the way God has chosen make it brighter and ever more beautiful. verda; daughter, Kay Guberud of Madison, for the light of Christ to shine in the world. Wis.; two sons, Daniel (Jane) Guberud of Boszhardt (Children of Kay); and four great Broomfield, Colo. and Joel (Roxanne) Gu- grandchildren, Amaya and Presley Guberud, berud of La Crosse; nine grandchildren, Bri- and Even and Ove Seleen. He was preceded an, Scott, and Erik Guberud, Jason (Jolene) in death by his parents and his sister, Mari- Community Connections Guberud, Tara (Robert) Seleen, Joel and lyn Murphy. Travis Guberud, and Andreas and Alianna Gratulerer med Dagen! Happy birthday / engagement / etc! Erik Peder Gildnes Bow WA Lisa Knudsen-Ganung Berkeley CA Hans Kveum Roseau MN Thora Nybroten Kensett IA Your name and Tommes Anders Saatvedt Columbia City OR special message Martha Viken Sioux City IA

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Høna trippar i berget The hen is out hiking in the del 2 mountain part 2

Ho gjekk og leita og lokka, og med eitt She went and she searched and høyrde ho også at det sa borti bergveg- she called, and all of a sudden she also gen: — Høna trippar i berget! Høna trip- heard something by the rock wall saying: par i berget! Dette tykte ho var underleg “The hen is out hiking in the mountain! og ville bort og sjå kva det var. Så datt ho The hen is out hiking in the mountain!” gjennom lemmen og djupt, djupt ned i This she thought was a bit strange and 9.NAW.Trolls.2VolSet.22Jan2014_Layout 1 1/22/14 12:36 PM Page 1 kvelvingen. wanted to go and see what it was. And Der gjekk ho gjennom alle romma, she also fell through the trap door, deep, men i det inste kom bergmannen til deep down into the undercroft. henne og spurde om ho ville vera kjæras- There she went through all the Norwegian Folk Tales, Fairy Tales and Trolls: ten hans. Nei, det ville ho slett ikkje, sa rooms, and when she reached the in- ho. Så vart bergmannen sint og tok og nermost room the mountain troll came •Vol 1 — 18 stories, 192 pgs dreiv til henne og slengde henne ned i to her and asked if she would be his girl- •Vol 2 — 21 stories, 192 pgs kjellaren. friend. “No, most definitely not,” said NEW OFF THE PRESS Då kona hadde sete og venta på den she. So the mountain troll became so an- •Bilingual English Norwegian andre dottera i sju lange og sju breie, sa gry that he hit her and threw her down text in each book •Hardcover, Smyth sewn, over ho til den yngste: — No får du i veg og into the cellar. 600 full colored illustrations in sjå etter systrene dine. Ille var det at høna When their mother had sat and each 7″x10″ book •Based on the collection of vart borte, men endå verre blir det om vi waited for the other daughter for what Peter Christen Asbjørnsen ikkje finn dei att. seemed to be forever, she said to her and Jørgen Moe Ja, den yngste jenta la i veg. Ho gjekk youngest: “Now you will need to go and •For of all ages on both sides of the Atlantic hit og dit og leita og lokka, men ikkje såg look for your sisters. Bad enough is it that •Classic series is published ho høna, og ikkje såg ho systrene sine. the hen is gone, but even worse would every year in Norway by Langt om lenge kom ho også bort imot it be if we don’t find your sisters again.” Price = $29.95 each or $49.95 for 2-vol-set Norsk Barneblad bergveggen, og så høyrde ho det sa: — Well, the youngest one set off. She SAVE $10 + FREE shipping in the USA Call, send check or visit website Høna trippar i berget! Høna trippar i ber- went here and there and called and Astri My Astri Publishing www.astrimyastri.com get! searched, but the hen she did not see, Deb Nelson Gourley Phone: 563-568-6229 602 3rd Ave SW, Waukon, IA 52172 [email protected] Dette tykte ho var rart. Men dåho nor did she see her sisters. 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Nordby card from a hand-colored woodblock print Men ho hadde berre så vidt fått late att She was not so frightened, and therefore lemmen, så kom bergmannen til henne. she took her time looking about. Winter Branches — Vil du vera kjærasten min, du? spurde Then she saw the trap door to the Available as a Christmas card with Norwegian greeting or note card han. cellar. She peeped down into the cel- NAGC & NL Members: $22 · Non-Members: $25 lar and immediately had a feeling that Postage, add $6 for 1 or 2 packages, add $13 for 3 or more packages her sisters were laying down there. But she had only just barely opened the trap Please call for international postage door when the mountain troll came up to Place your order through our e-Store, by telephone, her. “Do you want to be my girlfriend, do [American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa accepted] you?” he asked. or send your order with your check directly to NAGC & NL Miss the beginning? Sign up for our digital edition and get $29.95 with FREE shipping in the U.S.A. God jul og godt nyttår from your friends at NAGC & NL! access to back issues! www.astrimyastri.com norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 23 norwegian heritage Coffee or death Long Ago & Far Away In one Norwegian family, coffee is not optional by Jon Lind Norway has come a long way in a few decades. When Jon Lind was a child they still dug peat for fuel, carried water from a well, and lit their houses with kerosene. Lind was 11 when his family moved from Austrheim to Or- egon, and considers America his home. Yet in memory the Norway of his childhood seems idyllic. In this column he shares some of those memories. Share your memories with him at [email protected]. The America connection

The great wave of emigration from than I had ever seen before. I would color Norway to America that started in the mid the pictures sequentially through the book 1800s meant that almost every family in and never, ever, did I go outside the lines. our community had relatives in the Unit- I remember when my four-year-old sister ed States. Some kept in contact, some did got a wooden nutcracker shaped like San- not. The advantage of staying in contact ta Claus. You placed a nut in his mouth with your American relatives (at least for and pressed his legs together to crack it. us kids) was that it got you presents, espe- My sister was always a brave little kid cially at Christmas. My mother had three but this nutcracker scared her so that even brothers who left the island of Fedje and seeing it made her cry. The America pack- settled in Oregon. Uncle Carl (the middle age also contained coffee for my parents. brother) came back to Norway for a visit Coffee was available in Norway at that Photo: Jackie Moen-Kadlec in 1948, accompanied by his wife Ber- time but was heavily rationed. Ethel and Jiggs on their best behavior. gliot and his five-year-old daughter Au- Another person who got presents drey. I remember that they brought great from America was my friend Emil Sem- Jackie Moen-Kadlec that when you go to Jiggs and Ethel’s house, presents, especially hard candy in many mingsen, who was two years older than LaCrosse, Wis. you are expected to drink coffee at 8:00 p.m., colors. me and was our neighbor to the north. even if it means you are up all night. It is On the day they arrived, our family His father’s adopted sister lived in Amer- For people of Norwegian descent, bring- seen as an extreme slight if you do not con- made the trip to the is- ing a significant other to your family home sume at least one pot of coffee on your own land of Fedje (located during the holidays is a time-honored tradi- while you are there. This is how the scenario on the outer coast, tion. “Fear Factor” type dinners with gleeful went the first couple of times I brought Mike northwest of Bergen) relatives lead to conversations that include out to Jiggs and Ethel’s house: to join the group as- statements like, “What exactly is krub?” “Oh! Mouse! You’re here! Want a cup sembled there to greet “It’s a Norwegian delicacy. You should eat of coffee?” Grandma says with glee. them. Having relatives it and ask no further questions,” and helpful “Yup.” I say, already moving to the cof- visit from America was hints like, “In order to eat lutefisk, you have fee pot after searching the cupboards for the a big deal. I remember to take a shot of butter to help it slide down.” “If you don’t talk to your kids about lutefisk, that there was a long If you go to my Norwegian grandparents’ who will?” coffee cup. table full of food pre- home during the holidays, be prepared. Jiggs “Get your own. I’m sitting down. Mi- pared in my grandpar- and Ethel have a deep devotion to “Norwe- chael! You’re here too! Want some coffee?” ents’ living room, and gian coffee.” You have been warned... “No.” Mike says. seated directly across Morning time in the Moen world begins “What? No coffee?” Grandma says, flus- from me was my new before the first rays of sun break the hori- tered. No one has denied her the privilege of American aunt. Bergliot zon. Ethel and Jiggs are normally awake at offering coffee before, in my recollection. She was raised by Norwe- three in the morning. Possibly because they does not know how to proceed, as this is a Nor- gian parents in Portland, go to bed at seven in the evening, but I can’t wegian social nicety that must be conducted Oregon, and spoke Nor- be sure. Jiggs and Ethel consume copious before she can continue the conversation. wegian well. Sometime Photo courtesy of Jon Lind amounts of coffee. They consume coffee all “It’s too late for coffee.” Mike says, try- during the meal, to the To the right is Emil, the lucky recipient of a football from Ameri- ca. To his right is his brother Ove who became one of my closest great consternation of day long and into the evening. Jiggs and Eth- ing to be polite. In his non-Norwegian fam- friends during my many trips back to Norway. I have never met el appear to be immune to caffeine, which ily, there is an unacceptable time to drink this six-year-old boy, anyone with such a great sense of humor. He, unfortunately, died they have also passed on to the next genera- coffee and six in the evening is way past the she said something to young (45) of pancreatic cancer. Next to Ove is their great aunt tion. They do not drink “new fangled” iced cut-off point. Mike sits down and Ethel con- me in English. I was Maria who everyone referred to as “Maria dar sød” (Maria to coffees. They do not use flavored creamers. tinues to stare at him. By this point Jiggs has totally embarrassed the south) who actually lived north of us. They do not drink decaf. Coffee, which is the left the room, as he realizes I’ve brought a because I didn’t know equivalent of their lifeblood, is the heart and stranger into his home. The sound of a lock what to do. How could I answer her when ica and Emil and his siblings got regular soul of Casa Moen. clicking on his bedroom door breaks the un- I didn’t know what she’d asked? Red- presents. Only two of the presents Emil All of the grandchildren have had the comfortable silence in the living room. Ethel faced and silent I stared at my plate, like I received stick in my memory. One was privilege of drinking coffee with Jiggs and has been left to her own defense, sans her was inspecting the lefse for defects, until a wool jacket that was white with green Ethel. Dan, however, was the only one of us weapon of choice (the wooden spoon), with she took pity on me and said something checkers. The jacket was too big for Emil to have the opportunity to drink coffee with an invader in her midst. An invader who is in Norwegian I could respond to. In due but he wore it anyway. We referred to it as Jiggs’s parents, Christ and Ella. Dan would dating her granddaughter. If she doesn’t ad- course, she became my favorite aunt. Emil and his ullteppe (wool blanket). go to Christ and Ella’s house with Jiggs and dress this immediately, Michael Kadlec may I suspect that it was during that visit Another present Emil got caused Dad to visit. As soon as they entered the corrupt her granddaughter into not drinking that my father discussed with uncle Carl a great deal of excitement. Word got house, Ella would get everyone, Dan in- coffee, and that is unacceptable. the possibility of our family moving to the around that Emil had gotten a soccer ball cluded, a cup of coffee. Of course, you can’t “It’s never too late for coffee, Michael.” United States. When we finally did make from America. This was at a time when just hit the hard stuff right away, so Great- Grandma snorts, her icy blue eyes watching the move five years later, uncle Carl was our group did not own a soccer ball but Grandma Ella would put a dollop of coffee Michael’s every move. Past experience with our sponsor. we wanted one badly. We got suspicious and fill the rest with milk. Thus began Dan’s Ethel has shown that she snorts when she I can’t remember what kind of Christ- however, when we first saw the ball be- love affair with coffee. is flustered, in addition to saying “BAH!” mas presents we got from America prior cause it was not round. It had a point on If you are fortunate enough to be at Jiggs “FEDA!” and the Hail Mary of all Norwe- to that visit, but for the Christmases fol- each end. But we knew it had to be the real and Ethel’s home, the first thing they will say gian exclamations, “FEDA FUNT!” lowing, my sister and I got great presents thing because it even said “FOOTBALL” to you is “Do you want some coffee?” This “We are Norwegian, Michael. We drink from uncle Carl and aunt Bergliot. I can right on the box, which is how we figured is not pronounced in the normal American coffee.” remember getting Lincoln Logs one year they spelled fotball in America. It had a English vernacular. Coffee in my world is “I am not Norwegian,” Mike says, be- and an erector set the next that made me bladder and we started to pump. Initially, pronounced KAFF-EE. You are expected, ing completely honest. Grandma’s blue eyes the envy of my peers. There was always the more air we pumped into it, the more even if you do not drink coffee, to at least try become huge and she sits back in her chair. hard candy included in the package. My round it appeared to become. We figured it. However, Ethel’s coffee is so strong that “Not Norwegian…” she mumbles, favorite things of all, however, were the it was only a matter of time and these stu- it could, and probably has, melted spoons. shaking her head. “I’m so sorry.” Then, her coloring books and the crayons. The huge My husband, Mike, who is not Norwegian gaze turns to me. “Oh, Mouse, you’ve done box of Crayolas contained more colors See > america, page 25 but does enjoy coffee, does not understand it again.” 24 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly in your neighborhood What’s going on in your neighborhood? Calendar of Events craalifo ni ens’s “A Christmas Carol.” Set in a bar in a small Op. 12 (1866-67), and the soulful Ballade in the Washington Norwegian Christmas Eve Scandinavian town, bar owner Gunner Johnson Form of Variations on a Norwegian Folksong in Imaging the Arctic: Communicating Climate Dec. 24, 4:00 p.m. is visited by the ghost of Christmas past, pres- G minor, Op. 24 (1876), and Frédéric Chopin’s in- Science through Art Los Angeles, Calif. ent, and future. With 17 original songs including, vigorating Polish dance the Mazurka, the fervent now—Feb. 22 Sjømannskirken in Los Angeles/San Pedro is “I Love You More Than Football,” “The Wheel is Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23 (1835-36), and Seattle, Wash. holding an authentic Norwegian Christmas Turnin’ But the Hamster is Dead,” and “Grandma the Grande polonaise brillante in E-flat major, Op. This exhibit explores the impact of climate service at 4:00 p.m. Guests are then invited Cut the Christmas Cheese.” At New Century The- 22 (1831). Cost is $25 or $20 for ASF Members. change on West Greenland’s ecology and cul- to a Christmas dinner at 6:00 p.m. with ribs, atre. Call (612) 455-9501 or visit www.DontHug- ture through the work of three women: ma- lamb, potatoes, and more. The cost is $30 for Me.com. oro eg n rine mammal biologist Dr. Kristin Laidre, ex- adults or $15 for children and students. Please Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner at Sonja Lodge peditionary artist Maria Coryell-Martin, and RSVP by December 18. Candlelight Christmas Eve Service Jan. 24 & Jan. 25 Finnish photographer Tiina Itkonen. The ex- Dec. 24, 4:00 p.m. Eugene, Ore. hibit will center around the impact of climate Freya Lodge Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner Minneapolis, Minn. Menu includes lutefisk, meatballs, white sauce change in the Arctic and sea ice loss on nar- Jan. 24, 4:00—7:00 p.m. Join Mindekirken for this bilingual Candlelight and melted butter, homemade coleslaw, lefse, whals and polar bears. These iconic species of Santa Rosa, Calif. Christmas Eve Service featuring Dean Billmeyer flatbread and dessert! Reserved seatings at 4:00, the Arctic are highly adapted to the extreme The traditional Norwegian menu will include on organ and John De Haan as the soloist. Doors 4:45, 5:30, 6:15, and 7:00 p.m. on Saturday and polar environment, and are also an integral the very famous lutefisk, as well as delectable open at 3:00 p.m. 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 4:00, 5:00, and 6:00 p.m. on part of Greenlandic culture as subsistence re- meatballs in brown gravy and all the trim- Sunday. Tickets sell out quickly so call early and sources. At the Nordic Heritage Museum. mings, lefse, almond cake, and coffee. Cost is Norwegian Christmas Festival Service reserve your meal time. For reservations and in- $22 for members, $25 for non-members, and Dec. 25, 11:00 a.m. formation email [email protected] or call New Years Eve with Normanna Lodge $6 for kids six to 14. Mail paid reservations by Minneapolis, Minn. (541) 344-1064. Handicapped access parking Dec. 31 January 10 to Sons of Norway—Lutefisk Din- Celebrate Christmas at Mindekirken’s Norwegian available. Everett, Wash. ner: P.O. Box 6558, Santa Rosa, CA 95406. At Christmas Festival Service with Holy Communion. Celebrate the end of 2014 and the beginning Norway Hall. Visit www.freyalodge.org for Enjoy special music by Christina and Erika Espey- south dakota of 2015 at Normanna Lodge! There will be more information. Sundt. Forbidden Landscapes: The Secrets of Northern champagne toasts, hors d’oeuvres, and party Norway favors. Cost is $30 per person. i llinois Traditional Scandinavian Lutefisk and Meatball now—Feb. 2 Dinner Minnekirken Christmas Day Service Sioux Falls, S.D. Breidablik Lodge Lutefisk Dinner Jan. 17 Dec. 25, 11:00 a.m. Augustana College presents the photography of Jan. 11 Columbia Heights, Minn. Chicago, Ill. Lars Westvig, professor at the University of Nor- Kelso, Wash. Join First Lutheran for the annual Scandinavian Minnekirken will honor the birth of Jesus dur- dland in Bodø. In 2000 Lars published his first Join Breidablik Lodge 2-027 for their annual Lutefisk and Meatball dinner with seatings at ing this Christmas Day Service. Coffee and book of images, Bilda. The majority of the images family-style lutefisk and meatball dinner with 12:00, 2:00, 4:00, and 6:00 p.m. Tickets can be cake will follow the service; all are welcome. on display were taken from his light aircraft. The seatings at 11:30 a.m., 12:00, 12:30, 1:00, reserved by calling (651) 633-0679. Dinner will show is free and open to the public in the Fantle 2:30, 3:00, 3:30, and 4:00 p.m. Purchase your include lutefisk with melted butter and white Building at The Center for Western Studies. Hours tickets for a specific seating time by calling iowa sauce, meatballs, mashed potatoes, lefse, jule- Scandinavian Modern Design: Norwegian are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 Larry at (360) 575-1385 or via email at bignor- kake, and more! Tickets are $18, or 50 cents per p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. [email protected]. Adult tickets are $23 and Enamel year for children up to 10 years. At 1555 40th Av- now—April 19, 2015 tickets for children 12 and under are $8 for enue NE. Visit www.flcch.org for more informa- this all-you-can eat Norwegian Lutefisk meal. Decorah, Iowa tion and directions. T exas This exhibition focuses on Norwegian enamel Norwegian Christmas Eve Service Tickets sell out quickly so call early to reserve your meal time. production (technology, innovation, and busi- new york Dec. 24, 12:00 and 2:00 p.m. ness) and design. Artistic and technical in- Houston, Texas Hildur Queen of the Elves & Other Tales novations in enamel were Norway’s greatest Sjømannskirken in Houston is celebrating with Norwegian-American Veterans Theatre Jan. 10, 11:00 a.m. contributions to the Modern Design move- two traditional Norwegian Christmas services for Project: The Epiphany New York, N.Y. ment. The exhibition features Grete Prytz Kit- the whole family. Jan. 22, 7:00 p.m. Some of New York’s most famous storytellers telsen, the “Queen of Scandinavian Design.” Seattle, Wash. bring to life exciting tales of mythical creatures The exhibition will showcase enamel jewelry, vermont Visit the Nordic Heritage Museum for a staged and fantastic adventures from Scandinavia and reading of a new play called The Epiphany. Set cookware, and tableware from Vesterheim’s Vermont Ski Dance Weekend the far north. An hour of trolls, elves, huldufólk in Northern Norway during the Nazi occupa- collection and from individuals and other in- Jan. 29—Feb. 1 (hidden people), and the folks they meet with Bill tion, the play is based on BruceO lav Solheim’s stitutions. Fairlee, Vt. Gordh and his banjo. Exhibition-related children’s family history. The play will feature local ac- 19th Annual Ski Dance Weekend with outdoor programming is supported in part by a grant from tors and a Norwegian combat veteran who activities include skiing, skating, or snow shoe- Mio nnes ta The Sonja Foundation. Free. has recently served in Afghanistan. A local ing, as well as dance or fiddle instruction. Evening “A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol” Seattle hero, Knut Einarsen, who is 100 years dance parties will include sets with music from now—Jan. 4 Edvard Grieg & Frédéric Chopin—A Musical old, will be honored along with the Norwe- Telemark and Valdres, traditional Gammaldans, Minneapolis, Minn. Friendship gian veteran. There will be a reception before and music from Sweden. More information avail- Back in Minneapolis for its eighth year after Jan. 22, 8:00 p.m. the performance. seven years of sold-out performances. “A New York, N.Y. able at skidance.us. At Hulbert Outdoor Center. Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol” is a hilarious Hear Edvard Grieg’s invigorating 4 Norwegian northern Minnesota spoof of Charles Dick- Dances, Op. 35 (1880), the charming Lyric Pieces, Send your event to [email protected] or call (206) 784-4617 to be added to the Norwegian American Weekly! Check www.na-weekly.com/events for complete listings Event listings are free, but space is limited. Please contact us at least one month prior to event.

God jul

og godt nyttår! The Mission ChurCh of ParaMus 128 N Farview Avenue — Paramus, New Jersey 07652 Work Wear, Inc. Tel: (201) 265-1156 — www.themissionchurch.org 7301 5th Ave NE, Suite A Seattle, WA 98115

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Caroling around the Christmas tree, worship, music, fellowship, and refreshments — everyone welcome!

“O Magnify the Lord With Me and Let Us Exalt His Name Together” Psalm 34:3 norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 25 arts & entertainment Book review:

This week’s recipe brought to you by Scandinavian Specialties the premiere Scandinavian marketplace in the Northwest

(877) 784-7020 • 6719 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98117 Order online at www.scanspecialties.com 26 • December 19, 2014 norwegian american weekly Taste of Norway Chocolate date truffles for Christmas This holiday treat is simple, delicious, and safe for those with gluten or lactose issues

Whitney Love Stavanger, Norway The Christmas season is in full swing here in Norway, and for most of us that means lots of baking to help us get in the Christmas spirit. For many, however, Christmas season in Norway can be tough—especially when you are gluten sensitive or lactose intolerant. The good news is that you don’t have to ex- clude yourself from all of the julestemning just because flour and dairy products are off limits. My recipe for chocolate date truffles offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy the Christmas season with glee, while main- taining your dietary requirements. Dates are commonly eaten in Norway during this time of year and high-quality cocoa powder is available in just about every supermar- ket. Coconut oil is a newer cooking oil for many, but its health benefits and delightfully tropical taste make this a recipe you and your guests won’t forget. These truffles are fun to make with children and make a great gift.

Photo: Whitney Love Truffles, freshly sprinkled in cocoa, are decadent (and gorgeous) without being unhealthy. This Christmas, don’t forget to say Chocolate Date Truffles 15 good quality Medjool dates additional unsweetened cocoa to coat 2 tbsps unsweetened cocoa powder the truffles 1 1/2 tbsps coconut oil

Remove the seeds from all the dates and der and store in an airtight container. with a new cookbook from Whitney Love pulse them in a food processor until almost Makes 30 truffles. Award-winning food blogger and travel writer Whitney Love invites smooth. Add in the cocoa powder and coco- nut oil, then pulse again until the mixture is readers to get to know the Norway she loves through more than 70 Whitney Love is a cook- smooth. delicious recipes. Takk for Maten transports readers to Norway’s book author and blogger. kitchens with traditional and modern takes on: Add the mixture to a bowl, and allow it She hails from Tucson, Ari- to rest in the refrigerator for 10 minutes, or zona and is currently living • Norway’s famous until the coconut oil gets stiff. in Stavanger, Norway. She pepperkaker—Christmas Using a teaspoon, scoop out a portion runs the English language cookies with a peppery snap; of the date mixture and roll it in the palm blog Thanks For The Food • Boller—heavenly of your hands to form a ball. Continue this where she documents her until all of the date mixture has been rolled cardamom-scented, sugar- love affair with Norway through the lens of tra- into balls. ditional and modern Norwegian gastronomy. laced cinnamon buns; Dust each ball in additional cocoa pow- Find her online at thanksforthefood.com. • Norwegian meatballs with brown gravy, potatoes, and lingonberry jam; Chicago Norske Klub • Crispy fish fritters, smoked salmon wraps, crab Dec. 6, 2014 - Nov. 15, 2015 salad with dill, and other seafood dishes; Sharing the history • Fårikål, the national dish of this Chicago center of lamb and cabbage— for Norwegian-American Norwegian soul food at its coziest; social, cultural, and artistic • And many more beloved activities from 1911 to 1971. sweets, salads, and hearty winter meals. Sponsored by Chicago Area Friends of Vesterheim Purchase your copy today! and Rob and Evy Alsaker. Available online at amazon.com, or at: The National Norwegian-American Vesterheim Museum & Heritage Center thanksforthefood.com Decorah, Iowa • 563-382-9681 • vesterheim.org norwegian american weekly December 19, 2014 • 27 travel The magic of winter: Hunderfossen is a snow masterpiece

Staff Compilation Hunderfossen Winterpark

For a winter adventure straight from the pages of Norwegian fairytales, look no further than Hunderfossen Winterpark. This snow-ridden theme park is the first winter park in Europe, featuring the southernmost ice hotel in Scandinavia and a plethora of snow-day activities sure to delight the entire family. At Hunderfossen, families can enjoy all kinds of winter attractions, from snow rafting and ice climbing to ice bowling. For even more of a thrill, ride the Troll Drop to help save the princesses in the tower! And the excitement doesn’t stop there; groups of up to 50 adventurous people can take to the chilly skies for a high ropes course. Kids will love exploring the fairytale worlds of the cave and palace, meeting trolls and princesses right out of Asbjørnsen and Moe’s fairytales. Meanwhile, the adults may wish to move on the King Valemon Icebar for a drink or take a look at the breathtaking ice cathedral with its many sculptures and ethereal glow. This winter wonderland is located just 15 minutes north of the Lillehammer city center and a quick five minutes away from the Hafjell Skiarena.

Visit www.vinterparken.no to learn more Photo: Vinterparken.no about Hunderfossen Winterpark. 2013’s stunning ice cathedral. Each year the structures are rebuilt, so they are never the same twice.

Give the Gift of Travel this Holiday Season!

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God Jul Godt Nytt År Merry Christmas Happy New Year

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