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Taste of Norway Neighborhood Skål! Bottoms up « Den som ikke har julen Meet the i sitt hjerte, vil aldri finne den for Aquavit Week under et tre. » fjord horses Read more on page 20 – Roy L. Smith Read more on page 27 Norwegian American Weekly

Vol. 126 No. 46 December 18, 2015 Established May 17, 1889 • Formerly Western Viking and Nordisk Tidende $2.00 per copy GodGod Jul!Jul!

What’s inside? News 2-3 The Norwegian tree Opinion 4-5 Sports 6 that grew like Topsy Christmas 7-19 Christmas in Photos 12-15 Barbara K. Rostad Puzzles 18 Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho Travel 19 It started with a branch of Douglas Fir Taste of Norway 20-21 rescued from a heap of discarded trimmings Norwegian Heritage 23 at a Christmas tree lot. I stuck it in a can Business 24 filled with rocks and dirt, put foil around the can, and set it on my kitchen counter where it Obituaries & Religion 25 stayed for the holiday season, decorated with In Your Neighborhood 26-27 a few small ornaments found at a dime store and featuring one string of small Norwegian $1 = NOK 8.655 flags. updated 12/14/2015 I didn’t know it at the time, but that first Photo: Barabara K. Rostad venture with a Norwegian tree started a tra­ Four of the ornaments described in the story can be seen in this photo. From left to right: white In comparison stabbur, 1986; blue oval with nisse, also 1986; Top left of upper nisse doll, wood chip carving, 11/14/2015 8.6825 See > tree, page 10 2004; Far right, white heart with blue flowers, 1969, bought in Norway. 06/14/2015 7.7529 12/14/2014 7.3675 Photo: Pixabay 2 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly Nyheter fra Norge Nyheter Lyssetter kunst fra bronsealderen Aftenpostens julenisse-tabbe går verden rundt Nå skal ikke helle­ Medier over hele verden morer seg ristninger males røde kostelig over en feil dødsannonse i Aften­ posten der selveste julenissen ble meldt lenger—de skal frem i som avdød. — Ho, ho, ho. Aftenposten ble lurt til å publisere feilaktig dødsan­ lyset, bokstavelig talt nonse, fastslår BBC på sine nettsider. BBC var ett av mange medier verden NRK rundt som hadde det moro med det som Ved Solbergfeltet i Sarpsborg kan man vanligvis er en lei nyhet—noens bort­ skimte et blått lys fra skogholtet. Hvis du går gang. Denne gang var det en høyst fiktiv nærmere vil bevegelsessensorer trigge lys­ bortgang. Det var en glipp i Aftenpostens kastere. interne rutiner som førte til at en fiktiv Frem kommer over to tusen år gamle dødsannonse om julenissen ble publisert helleristninger slik de viste seg i bronseal­ i avisens digitale systemer. I annonsen, deren. Foto: Martin Tangen Schmidt / NRK som ikke ble trykket i avisen, men som — I bronsealderen brukte de bål og fak­ Profesjonelle lysdesignere har jobbet med å lyssette helleristninger i Sarpsborg. kom på nettsidene, fremgår det at Olau­ ler for å belyse ulike deler av bergflata. Vi sen Julenisse, angivelig født 12. desem­ finner spor av keramikk, brent leire og andre bevis for at helleristninger ble malt da de ningene har blitt tolket ulikt og malt opp feil ber 1788, skulle begraves på Nordpolen ting som tyder på at de har hatt ritualer foran ble laget i bronsealderen. I tillegg har vi hatt flere steder. Vi ønsker å finne en måte å for­ kapell 28. desember. Han ville da ha vært berget, sier Ida Charlotte Wendel, arkeolog i problemer med at malinga krakelerer og river midle ristningene på som er mer i tråd med 227 år gammel. Aftenpostens nyhetsre­ Østfold fylkeskommune. med seg mineralkorn fra berget, sier Wendel. hvordan vi mener at de skulle oppleves og daktør Håkon Borud beklager hendelsen. Å lyssette helleristningene er en ny og Hun forteller at det er vanskeligere å stu­ brukes opprinnelig, sier Wendel. — Glippen skyldes en teknisk svikt, som fremtidsrettet måte å vise frem bergkunsten dere huggeteknikkene bak helleristningene vi nå har rettet opp, sier Borud. — Den på. Rødmalingen er ikke lenger bærekraftig, når malingen river med seg mineralkorn fra English Synopsis: The rock carvings in Sarpsborg gode nyheten er at vi har fått bekreftet at mener arkeologene. berget. will no longer be painted; a blue light will shine on Julenissen vil dukke opp om kort tid. them to better represent how they were originally seen. — Grunnen er at vi ikke har noen gode — Det har også vært et problem at rist­ (Aftenposten) Regjeringa med rekordstort skogvern 66 skogområder i 13 fylker er vedtatt vernet i statsråd 11. desember. Aldri tidligere er det vernet så mye produktiv Lager kampfly pepperkaker skog i ett vernevedtak. Naturvernforbun­ det roser regjeringen. — Dette er kjempe­ Mens de fleste lager har ifølge Adressa blitt en julehit. bra. Skogvern er helt avgjørende for at vi — Folk står i kø foran skranken i Ørland skal klare å ta vare på den fantastiske rik­ pepperkakene sine i kultursenter for å sikre seg en pepperkake­ dommen av planter og dyr som vi er helt form av hjerter, valgte form av F35-jagerfly. Julepåfunnet har tatt avhengig av. Vi håper dette historiske ved­ helt av, forteller infokonsulent og idémaker taket følges opp av mange nye verneom­ Regjeringen jagerfly Hanne Tøfte i Ørland kommune, til avisen. råder neste år, sier leder Lars Haltbrekken Noen timer etter at bildet var lagt ut, la i Naturvernforbundet. Store skogom­ VG regjeringen ut et nytt innlegg—denne gan­ råder også i Midt-Norge blir vernet. I alt gen med et pepperkake-hjerte. vernes 260 kvadratkilometer, av dette er 7. desember ettermiddag la Regjeringen «En regjeringskonto på Instagram har 162 kvadratkilometer produktiv skog. ut et bilde på instagramkontoen @regjerin­ også et hjerte. Vi skjønner at mange reagerte Med vedtaket øker norsk skogvern fra gen av pepperkaker i form av jagerfly. på innlegget med kampflypepperkaker og nær 2.7 prosent til nær 2.9 prosent av den «Julebaksten i @kampfly_no er i igjen beklager vi selvsagt dette.» produktive skogen i landet. — Skogvern gang!», sto det under bildet. Og reaksjonene Selv om det var flere som ikke synes at er et viktig og svært effektivt tiltak for å lot ikke vente på seg. spøken var morsom, blir bildet liggende ute. sikre norsk naturmangfold, sier klima- og Mens noen fikk seg en god latter, var det — Vi skal ikke fjerne det. Regjeringens miljøminister Tine Sundtoft (H). Blant andre som overhodet ikke så noen humor i instagramkonto er ganske fersk. Det er et områdene som vernes er større gammel­ det. prøveprosjekt regjeringen har der vi tester skogsområder opp mot fjellet, gammel «Julekoz med bomber og granater?», Foto: Regjeringen / Instagram ut å bruke instagram som en alternativ platt­ granskog i mosaikk med slåttemyrer, skriver en bruker. Julebaksten i @kampfly_no er i gang! form for kommunikasjon. Dette har gitt oss bratte bekkekløfter, frodige edelløvskoger «Dette er det sjukeste jeg har sett», lærdom om hva slags type bilder som engas­ med gamle hule eiker og skog i bratte skriver en annen. ble for hard kost. Vi beklager selvsagt det og jerer og provoserer. lier ved Sognefjorden, ifølge Klima- og Regjeringen har selv kommentert bildet legger oss helt flate.» miljødepartementet. etter at det var kommet en del reaksjoner fra De skriver videre at pepperkakeformene English Synopsis: The government received a lot of andre brukere. er laget i Ørland kommune, som også vil ta negative feedback in response to their Instagram post (NRK) of gingerbread cookies in the shape of fighter planes. «Vi skjønner at å koble jul med kampfly imot kampflyene i 2017. Pepperkakeformene Stensland Books Books with a Norwegian Flair by Doris Stensland

from the Daughters of Norway

Uniting a sisterhood of women who wish to preserve Norwegian heritage. Haul the Water, Ole’s Promise The Music Man Haul the Wood From Norway Norwegian sweethearts who pio- A sequel to Haul the Water, The life of a musician from Norway neered in South Dakota in the 1870s Haul the Wood who brought music to the Dakota prairies at the turn of the century. join us at daughtersofnorway.org For ordering or information: view website www.stenslandbooks.com or order through Amazon.com Norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 3 news from norway Nobel Peace This week in brief Norway jet training Norwegian police to stay armed until Feb. Prize awarded The Norwegian Police Directorate said Two new Norwegian that officers would carry weapons through Air Force F-35s arrived Winner The Quartet feels February 3 as the national security situa­ gratitude, resolves to keep tion remains “unclear and unresolved” at US Air Force base; in the aftermath of last month’s terror at­ working despite the danger tacks in Paris, which left 130 people dead. Norwegian pilots Hours before the Paris attacks on Sarah Bostock November 13, the Police Directorate had begin training to fly The Foreigner announced a plan to end a temporary or­ der given in November 2014 for police Paul Giblin “We shed tears of joy [when] we learned to carry pistols on their service belts. The Arizona Republic that we had been awarded the Nobel Peace Three days later, it was decided that po­ Prize for 2015. Words couldn’t express the lice would continue to carry their service Two new Norwegian Air Force F-35 pride we felt,” Houcine Abassi told reporters. weapons until December. stealth fighter jets touched down at Luke Air “Getting this prize also increases our re­ Justice Minister Anders Anundsen Force Base in November, marking the sec­ sponsibility, however. The dangers are still stressed that, for now, an armed police ond allied country to commit F-35s to the lurking and the need for dialogue remains,” force is still seen as a temporary mea­ base’s international pilot training program. NRK quoted him as saying. sure. “We are in a rather special situation The twin-tailed, matte gray planes flew The Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet because the threat level has not been di­ in from Fort Worth, Texas, where they were is composed of union L’Union générale tu­ rectly altered since October but there are manufactured, and were joined mid-flight Photo: Department of Defense / Wikimedia nisienne du travail (UGTT), employers’ or­ many uncertainties surrounding this,” he by two other F-35s assigned to the base in An F-35A Lightning II jet against a cloudy sky. ganisation L’Union tunisienne de l’industrie, told broadcaster NRK. Glendale. du commerce et de l’artisanat (UTICA), hu­ The Norwegian Police Federation Norwegian Maj. Gen. Morten Klever, Klever said. The first Norwegian F-35 pilot- man rights organisation La Ligue tunisienne (Politiets Fellesforbund) has requested the head of his country’s F-35 program, of­ in-training made his inaugural flight in an des droits de l’homme (LTDH), and national that police be permanently armed and ficially accepted the jets. F-35 later on the day of delivery. lawyers’ association L’Ordre national des Anundsen has appointed a committee to “It’s a major milestone for the Norwe­ The two new arrivals bring the total avocats de Tunisie (ONAT). consider the request. number of F-35A Lightning II jets at Luke gian armed forces,” Klever said. “This will The Quartet’s Houcine Abassi (Secre­ (The Local) be the backbone of the Norwegian armed to 32. By 2024, the base is scheduled to have tary General of UGTT), Wided Bouchamaoui forces for the next 40 years, so starting train­ 144 F-35s, making it the largest F-35 base (UTICA President), Abdessattar Ben Moussa Greater acceptance of inter-cultural worldwide. ing here at Luke is very essential to us.” (President of LTDH), and Mohamed Fadhel marriage Every Norwegian F-35 pilot for the next generation is expected to train at the base, See > jets, page 5 See > peace prize, page 4 Fewer people than before would find it uncomfortable if their son or daughter wanted to marry an immigrant. While 25 and 23 percent had objections to this in 2013 and 2014 respectively, only 17 per­ Norway expands rainforest pledge cent expressed similar reluctance in 2015. In 2002, the figure was 40 percent. Norway announced This is one of the findings in the an­ nual population survey of attitudes to­ new committments wards immigrants and immigration con­ ducted by Statistics Norway. early in the COP21 There is also an increase of 8 percent­ age points in the share having contact with climate talks in Paris immigrants, up to 78 percent. The most common form of contact is through work The Local and among friends. Those who have con­ tact with immigrants also report that the The Norwegian Government said on contact is more frequent than before. Nov. 30 that it will extend its financial sup­ (SSB) port to Brazil’s Amazon Fund through 2020 and will commit 1.4 billion kroner ($186 Renewables in Norway million) to reduce deforestation in Colombia. The production of data is growing at an Norway has financially supported Bra­ incredible rate in line with our increas­ zil’s efforts to reduce deforestation in the Photo: Francisco Chaves / Wikimedia Commons ingly digital way of life. So is the need for Amazon to the tune of $1 billion since 2008 Norway’s pledge will help support the old-growth rainforest and those who live and work there. storing data. With an energy system al­ in a partnership that UN Secretary-General most entirely based on renewable hydro­ Ban-Ki Moon has hailed as “an outstanding estation rank among the most important cli­ zero net deforestation in its section of the power, Norway is well suited for hosting example of the kind of international collabo­ mate change and sustainable development Amazon by 2020 and to end all natural for­ power consuming data storage centers. ration we need to ensure the future sustain­ efforts of the last decade. We are proud to est loss by 2030. Enormous amounts of data needs to ability of our planet.” have been Brazil’s partner since 2008, and “Colombia’s ambitions to protect its for­ be processed and stored, and the comput­ Brazilian President Dilma Rouseff said are delighted now to extend that partnership ests and grow its rural economy in parallel er facilities depend on energy intensive that her country’s climate plan, which among to 2020,” Solberg said. are admirable. Its partnership with Germany, cooling systems. This also affects the cli­ other things commits to cutting greenhouse Norway committed to supporting the the United Kingdom, and Norway is ground­ mate, as much of the power comes from gas emissions by 43 percent and eliminating Amazon Fund with around one million kro­ breaking. We will be a consistent, dedicated fossil fuel power plants. illegal deforestation by 2030, “represents a ner per year through 2020. partner to Colombia based on the principle With an energy system almost entire­ major political signal for the global response In another initiative announced on Nov. of payments for results,” Solberg said. ly based on hydropower, Norway is one of to climate change.” 30, Norway said it would join Germany and Norway committed to funding verified the very few countries in the world with Norwegian PM Erna Solberg praised the UK in contributing around $300 million deforestation results with up to 1.1 billion a surplus production of renewable en­ her colleague’s commitment to protect the to Colombia’s plan to reduce deforestation kroner ($146 million) through 2020 and a ergy. Nearly all projections indicate that Amazon rainforest. and promote sustainable development. Norway will enjoy such an abundance of “Brazil’s reductions in Amazon defor­ Colombia announced plans to reach See > rainforest, page 4 renewable energy for a long time. Fur­ thermore, the Norwegian climate is quite This week’s news from Norway is brought to you through partnerships with: cold and chilly. This provides excellent conditions for natural cooling. Together with favorable investment conditions, this makes us a great location for the digital revolution. (Tord Lien / www.thelocal.no & theforeigner.no Ministry of Petroleum & Energy) 4 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly opinion

< rainforest From page 3 further 300 million kroner ($40m) in “pay­ ments for successful policy design and im­ Christmas Greetings from Ambassador Kåre R. Aas plementation.” Also at the COP21 talks on November to readers of the Norwegian American Weekly 30, Solberg was one of eight heads of gov­ ernment to sign a joint statement calling on Dear Readers, During the year that has soon gone the international community to take “strong, As the song says, “It’s the most by, I have also had the pleasure of reach­ collective, and urgent action on forests.” wonderful time of the year.” It’s a time ing out to hundreds of students at 18 Some 12 million hectares of forest are when I like to step back and think about American universities—without having destroyed annually, accounting for roughly the good things in life, the things that re­ to leave my office. Through the “Virtual one tenth of all global greenhouse gas emis­ ally matter, the things I’m grateful for. Ambassador” program I’m in a two-way sions. I’m grateful for my four children, electronic dialogue with them about sub­ and for the chance to watch as they jects that are close to my heart and high Oslo on December 9. Norwegian-American community at welcome you to join me in the conversa­ Speaking at the conference, Bou­ large. Good job keeping those Norwe­ tion. Your voice matters. A list of some chamaoui stated that “we now must find a gian family traditions alive, especially at Photo: Emily C. Skaftun of my and the Embassy’s online contact way to say no to terrorists, no to arms, no this time of year. In my opinion, there’s Ambassador Aas meets with the public in any information appears below. to wars.” really nothing better in life than coming way he can—even when the public is a silly nisse So please be in touch during the “We have succeeded on a political tran­ together with friends and family to cel­ named Nils Anders Wik. New Year. Who knows where 2016 will sition. We now need to succeed in economic ebrate a Christmas—preferably Norwe­ take us? There’s no way to know for transition,” the Associated Press reported her gian-style. creasingly interconnected and globalized sure. One thing I am sure of is that I will as saying. I’m grateful for Norway’s ongo­ economic and political environment, we continue to explore the U.S., and during The Tunisian National Dialogue Quar­ ing relationship with our closest friend need our allies more than ever. my travels I hope to meet as many of you tet was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2015 and ally, the United States of America. The world today faces several serious as possible. Those I cannot meet in per­ for its “decisive contribution to the building And for the wonderful opportunity I’ve challenges. One of them, climate change, son, I hope to get to know online. of a pluralistic democracy in Tunisia” in the had, as ambassador, to get to know this has recently been at the center of world lead­ Wishing you a very Merry Christ­ wake of the 2011 Jasmine Revolution, the amazing country and her people. ers’ attention in Paris. Others, such as the mas, god jul, and a joyous New Year Nobel Institute announced in its statement in In 2015 alone, I paid visits to Phila­ conflicts in Syria and Afghanistan—and the filled with peace and prosperity. October this year. delphia; Colorado; New York; Anchor­ massive waves of migration resulting from It came about in 2013, when the democ­ age; Seattle; Miami; Minneapolis (sev­ them—are subject to attention by the same Warmly, ratization process was in danger of collaps­ eral times!); Chicago (for a wonderful leaders on a daily basis. They can only be Kåre R. Aas ing after political assassinations and social celebration on May 17, Norway’s Con­ solved if we all stand together. Dialogue, sol­ unrest. The Quartet established an alterna­ stitution Day); Anchorage/Seattle again, idarity, and shared responsibility are all criti­ tive, peaceful political process at a time this time for His Majesty King Harald cally important ingredients for a successful Ambassador Aas online: when Tunisia was close to civil war, accord­ V’s visit to the U.S.; Clifton and Ft. outcome. • Blog: the-y-indiplomacy.com ing to the Nobel Institute. Worth, Texas; and Boston. We need to keep talking to each other. • Twitter: @kareraas “We are Ambassadors for Peace now, Those trips have been a lot of fun. So many tools are at our disposal these days and we will not fail Nobel Committee,” said I’ve attended conferences and spoken that allow us to communicate with people in The Embassy online: the UGTT’s Houcine Abassi. out on climate change, Arctic issues, all corners of the Earth. • Facebook: www.facebook.com/Norwe- The Peace Prize was presented at the science, the European migrant crisis, I’m using social media and other av­ gianEmbassyinWashington ceremony on December 10 in Oslo City Hall. girls’ education, Ukraine, and many, enues as much as I can to reach out to the • Twitter: @NorwayUS Following the program was the traditional many more of the issues that dominated American public and to people back home in • Instagram: @NorwayInUS torchlight procession outside the Grand the headlines in 2015. Norway. In addition to my Twitter account, • Website: norway.org Hotel, organized by the Norwegian Peace There’s a lot to be grateful for—and which I began shortly after starting as Am­ Council, and the Nobel Banquet, hosted by a lot to look forward to in the year to bassador to the U.S., I’ve recently added a Additional links to social media, includ- the Norwegian Nobel Committee. come. blog, the-y-indiplomacy.com, where I can ing Facebook pages and Twitter ac- Friday December 11 saw the Nobel We were able to accomplish a lot write about issues that matter to me, at great­ counts for the various Norwegian con- Peace Prize Concert, held this year at the this year—and we were able to do it er length than Twitter’s 140-character limit sulates and Consuls General, can be Telenor Arena and hosted by U.S. TV star because we worked together. In an in­ allows. found on norway.org Jay Leno. G G ive a little... et a little!A gift for... Psst! NAW Norwegians can be so hard to Name: makes a buy for! 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Questions? Call us at (206) 784-4617 or email [email protected]. Visa / Mastercard: You can also mail a check or pay with a credit card over the phone! YES, bill me when this gift Expiration: CVV: subscription expires. Norwegian American Weekly, 7301 5th Ave NE Ste A, Seattle, WA 98115 Account #: NO, bill them. norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 5 opinion Letters to the Editor Norwegian American Weekly Published since May 17, 1889 Do you have something to say? 7301 Fifth Avenue NE Suite A, Seattle, WA 98115 Toll-free: (800) 305-0217 • Local: (206) 784-4617 W rite to us at Norwegian American Weekly, Letter to the Editor, 7301 Fifth Avenue Fax: (206) 448-2033 • Email: [email protected] NE, Suite A, Seattle, WA 98115, or email us at [email protected], subject line Letter to the Editor. Letters may be edited for style, clarity, or length. Publisher Norwegian American Foundation Editor-in-chief Emily C. Skaftun [email protected] Don’t forget Molde! Barcelona, Bayern Munich, etc. Editorial Assistant From a small town on the west coast of Molly Jones [email protected] Dear Editor, Norway this is really something. Taste of Norway Editor I am pleased that Rosenborg won this As a former Molde gutt I’d like your Daytona Strong [email protected] NAW notes year’s Tippeliga (NAW December 4, 2015). readers to know. Corrections: Advertising In the December 11 issue But I have have not seen you make any com­ Sincerely, Drew Gardner [email protected] NAW notes ment about the tremendous achievement by John Brock-Utne we made two errors (that we Subscriptions MFK who has qualified as the last 32 teams [email protected] know of). First, the photo of John Erik Stacy [email protected] Sandbakkelse against a yellow out of 64 to the UEFA Champions League. background, attributed to Christy Rosenborg was not that lucky this year in the Dear John, Contributors Olsen Field, was actually taken UEFA cup. Thank you for the info! It sounds like Larrie Wanberg Grand Forks, N.D. by Uncle Steve. Second, the in- Actually getting to the last 32 teams quite the accomplishment, and I’m sorry we Lina Aas-Helseth Gran Canaria, Canary Islands from all over Europe is no mean feat and not seem to have missed it. We have a very small Patricia Barry Hopewell Junction, N.Y. stallment of “Norway Journal” on Melinda Bargreen Everett, Wash. page 14 was actually chapter 9, many teams from Norway have done that, if editorial team, so we always appreciate tips! M. Michael Brady Asker, Norway not chapter 8 as we wrote. any ever have. Hipp hipp hurra for Molde! Carla Danziger McLean, Va. / Albany, Calif. I thought you may want to share this in­ Daughters of Norway Members Various You have our sincere apolo- Gary G. Erickson Sunburg, Minn. gies! Clearly it is time to take a formation with your readership as now Mol­ Sincerely, Rasmus Falck O oslo, Norway break. Which brings us to... de will be facing the likes of Real Madrid, Editor Marit Fosse Geneva, Switzerland Sunny Gandara Beacon, N.Y. Shelby Gilje Seattle, Wash. Week off Heidi Håvan Grosch Sparbu, Norway Because we at NAW are tak- < jets ducted with allies, so relationships built at Rosalie Grangaard Grosch Arden Hills, Minn. Luke will be critical in coordinating efforts, Line Grundstad Hanke Seattle, Wash. ing a break soon, you will not From page 3 Kari Heistad Edina, Minn. receive a paper on January 1. said Luke commander Brig. Gen. Scott Pleus. Victoria Hofmo Brooklyn, N.Y. We’ll be back to greet 2016 on Norway is projected to have as many as The single-seat, single-engine jet, which Leslee Lane Hoyum R rockford, Minn. seven F-35s at Luke. Then starting in 2024, is also called the Joint Strike Fighter, is man­ Roy Jorgensen Hopewell Junction, N.Y the 8th. And finally... Inger-Torill Kirkeby Miami, Fla. Norway will leave four F-35s at Luke and ufactured by Lockheed Martin. It combines Scott Larsen New Westminster, B.C. Christmas and winter transfer the others to Norway, Klever said. radar-evading stealth features with fighter Thor A. Larsen Fishkill, N.Y. The Scandinavian country will acquire speed and agility, plus fully fused sensor Jerry Larson Zimmerman, Minn. NAW wishes you a very hap- Solveig M. Lee Seattle, Wash. py Jul and winter solstice. The as many as 52 of the fighters as it updates its systems that enhance targeting and commu­ Darin Lietz Seattle, Wash. darkest day of the year is upon force from older F-16 Fighting Falcons. nications. Richard Londgren Thousand Oaks, Calif. “Working in the harsh areas in the high It can reach Mach 1.6, which is roughly Whitney Love Stavanger, Norway us. Now things get brighter! Donald V. Mehus New York, N.Y. Winter officially begins on north,” Klever said, “the F-16 that we have 1,200 mph, and fly more than 1,400 miles Christine Foster Meloni Washington, D.C. December 22. Here in Seattle today is getting old. Let me say, it’s worn without refueling. Most importantly, it can David Moe S sun City, Calif. out, and we need to get the F-35 in service as fly virtually undetected into enemy air space David Nikel Trondheim, Norway we’re all hoping it brings a break Ken Nordan Batavia, Ill. from this rainy fall. soon as possible.” to locate and destroy targets miles away. Finn Roed West Bloomfield, Mich. Military actions in the future will be con­ Barbara K. Rostad Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho John Erik Stacy Seattle, Wash. Rolf Kristian Stang New York, N.Y. Hjalmar by Nils Axle Kanten Judith Gabriel Vinje Los Angeles, Calif. N orwegian American Weekly strives to make its news report fair and accurate. 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« Those who don’t have Christmas in their hearts will never find it under a tree. » I t’s crazy how much these – Roy L. Smith robber-gangsters got.

I never thought they would find our gold. 6 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly sports Kristoffersen third in Beaver Creek The Norwegian downhill skier earns 12th World Cup podium on an innovative set of skis

Photos: (left) Tommy Barstein / NRK, (below) NRK olly ones M J Left: Kristoffersen gives a thumbs up after a suc- Norwegian American Weekly cessful run at Beaver Creek. Below: A shot of his secret skis, sporting rods At the 2015 FIS Ski World Cup races in that expert Kjetil André Aamodt says make them Beaver Creek on December 6, Henrik Krist­ more stable and also boost power. offersen surprised himself with a spot on the podium. After the first round of the giant slalom, the 21-year-old Norwegian alpine ski racer sat in fourth place, but an impres­ sive second run earned him third place by a hundredth of a second. This position secured his 12th World Cup podium—eight in slalom and four in giant slalom. “In the first round I had a bit left, but in the second half I felt that I pushed all the way. I probably could have skied a little fast­ er, but overall I’m very happy,” said Kristof­ fersen to VG. Austria’s Marcel Hirscher was the clear winner, coming in almost a second ahead of ican event is the high elevation, he says, not­ another one taking points,” said the satisfied plate and everything, leave no stone unturned, Frenchman Victor Muffat-Jeandet in second ing that the run starts at 3,100 meters above Alpine Skiing Sports Director, Claus Ryste, be open and offensive. They found something place. Kristoffersen’s time of 2:33.89 was sea level. While some athletes receive oxy­ to NTB. new, and maybe it works,” he said. 1.31 behind the Austrian and just .01 ahead gen before the start, the practice is banned In addition to coverage of Kristoffer­ NRK ski expert and Norway’s most dec­ of Swedish Andre Myhrer in fourth. in Norwegian sports and therefore Kristof­ sen’s success in Beaver Creek, there’s been a orated alpine ski racer Kjetil André Aamodt “It was an exciting race, especially be­ fersen had to make do without. lot of media attention focused on the skis he explained that the rods on the skis can have tween Myhrer and me; we are only +0.01 He wasn’t the only Norwegian to make used, which have a large rod atop each ski. two positive effects: “The rods will make it apart—that’s tight! It’s not a hill that suits me it to the final round, though. While Aksel The Norwegian is trying to keep the de­ more stable and calm, and in addition give very well, it’s pretty flat, so I’m very happy Lund Svindal was out with an illness and tails of the innovation a secret though, imme­ you more power … It can have a trampoline with my third place today,” said Kristoffersen. Aleksander Aamodt Kilde was eliminated in diately packing the skis away after finishing effect out of the turn.” Of the champion, he says: “He’s a great the first run, Leif Kristian Haugen finished the race. He’s adds that it will be a while until it athlete. He is the man I want to beat, and I 12th, Kjetil Jansrud 15th, and Rasmus Wind­ When NRK asked him about the skis, he is clear if the new equipment actually gives have enormous respect for what he does.” ingstad ended up in 29th place for his first said: “It is something new, yes. But I won’t Kristoffersen an advantage, but he com­ Kristoffersen admits that he didn’t ex­ ever World Cup points. talk about the skis today—I’m not allowed mends him for taking the risk. pect to end up on the podium in Beaver “The U.S. round has been very good. to,” and asked them not to film them. “Hundredths of a second can make the Creek. One of the challenges with the Amer­ Today we have three men in the top 15 and Coach Christian Mitter did make some difference. You need to constantly be look­ comments on the need to explore innovative ing for better equipment. So it’s good that equipment as a way to make Norway more he dares and is not afraid to try new things,” the competitive in the international scene, how­ says Aamodt. ever. As the World Cup competition pro­ Hearthstone “We said we should be open to making gresses, keep an eye on Kristoffersen—and changes on anything from shoes to skis to the his skis.

Sports News & Notes Football: Norway’s Hareide new national team,” the chief executive of the Denmark national coach Danish Football Association (DBU), Claus Åge Hareide was named Denmark’s new na­ Bretton-Meyer, said in a statement. tional football coach on Dec. 10, replacing Hareide said that he expects big things Morten Olsen who stepped down last month. out of his new club: “The potential on the “Our team and our fans deserve to go to Danish national team is much, much bigger the World Cup in 2018, and I look forward to than what I worked with when I was the Nor­ fighting for it with the players,” Hareide said wegian national coach,” he said. in a statement. (The Local) Welcome to the Neighborhood! The 62-year-old Norwegian replaces Olsen, who quit on November 17 after Den­ Snowboarding: Second place for mark failed to qualify for Euro 2016. Sandbech Hareide last week announced his depar­ Ståle Sandbech finished second in the snow­ ture as coach at Malmö. He has previously boarding slopestyle competition in the pres­ coached several Scandinavian teams and tigious Dew Tour in the U.S. Only Mark Mc­ was in charge of the Norwegian national Morris was better. The Canadian got 94.40 team between 2003 and 2008. points, while Sandbech finished with 90. In “With Åge Hareide we get a coach who his debut competition, Mons Røisland (18) has great passion, experience, and results took a strong sixth place. as a coach both at the club level and for a (NRK) Varmeste Julehilsener the fra Den Norske Glee Club of Minneapolis Hearthstone Member Chorus of the Norwegian Singers Association of America Retirement Living 6720 E Green Lake Way N Seattle, WA 98103 For more information, contact President Herb Nelson at Seattle’s Green Lake www.hearthstone.org Phone: (651) 587-4819 | Email: [email protected] (206) 517-2213 On the web: www.norwegiangleeclub.com norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 7 christmas Welcome to NAW’s 2015 Christmas issue

Of goats and reindeer: Nordic connections in Christmas stories

M. Michael Brady Asker, Norway

The traditions of celebrating Christmas in the Nordic countries are historically en­ twined with the conversion of the countries to Christianity at the beginning of the Viking Age. Some mentions are in descriptions of medieval Catholic processions that figure in folk myths, such as Oskoreia, described in the Norwegian American Weekly last Christ­ mas, link at: www.na-weekly.com/featured/ oskoreia. One of the oldest surviving characters is the Julebukk (“Christmas Goat”) of Nor­ way, known as Julebock in Swedish, Juleged in Danish, and Olkipukki in Finnish. Ini­ tially the Julebukk was a goat slaughtered at Christmastime to celebrate the end of the Photos: (left) Public Domain, (above) Tony Nordin / Wikimedia Commons agricultural work year. With time, it meant a Left: Artist John Bauer’s depiction of Julebocken carrying presents at Christmastime. person who led a costumed procession from Above: Giant Yule Goat in Gefle, Sweden. house to house, to entertain the residents and be rewarded with food and drink. In the early in 1939 by Robert L. May for a children’s anecdote of the reindeer-drawn sled, about where Santa is said to have his workshop, at 19th century, the Julebukk also became the Christmas book published by mail-order re­ which he had only read, with the details of some undefined place. The mythical location bringer of presents, the predecessor of the Ju­ tailer Montgomery Ward. dogsleds with which he undoubtedly was fa­ of the workshop at the North Pole clearly is lenisse, equivalent to Santa Claus in English. Today, the American story of Santa and miliar, as they were much used by the native impractical, particularly for the elves work­ Today the Julenisse and Santa Claus have his reindeer is as ubiquitous at Christmastime residents of the U.S. and Canada. So with po­ ing in its distribution center. In the Nordic taken over present-bringing, but effigies of as is the tradition of decorating evergreen etic license, flying reindeer indeed might be countries where reindeer still roam, several the Julebukk still are made, most of straw, trees, first observed in sixteenth century Ger­ hitched in teams, as were real sled dogs. Like­ towns claim the workshop. Most enterpris­ the largest a giant statue in Gefle, Sweden. many. And as history suggests, its roots are wise, artists who drew Santa’s airborne sleigh ing is the city of Rovaniemi at the Arctic Arguably the greatest 19th century European, more specifically Nordic. The first most likely modeled it after the horse-drawn Circle in Finland. About six miles north of change of the Christmas myth took place in illustrated description of reindeer pulling sleighs of the mid nineteenth century. So an the city there is a Santa Claus Village and the U.S. The story starts on December 23, sleds is in the travelogue “Opera Lapponia” airborne sleigh might well have been modeled theme park, fittingly just two miles from the 1823, with “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” a by Johan Scheffer, a professor at the Univer­ on a passenger sleigh with thin runners inad­ Rovaniemi Airport. poem in the Troy, N.Y., Sentinel, published sity of Uppsala in Sweden, first published in equate to support it on rooftop snows. Another Old Norse word is prominent anonymously but generally attributed to Latin in 1674 and later in English translation Moore’s choice of “reindeer” may have in the lingo of Christmas. The English word theologian and poet Clemet Clarke Moore. in 1704. That book includes a woodcut de­ perpetuated the story, as it has a more roman­ “Yule” is derived from one or more of seven Though now seldom read in full, we all picting a single reindeer pulling a pulk, the tic ring than “caribou,” the name of the ani­ spellings in Old English, which meant the know the storyline of the man of the house boat-like sled used by the Sámi, for centuries mal in North America. Moreover, it’s been in months of December or January. Around the who is awakened on Christmas Eve by a the nomads of the north. Only one reindeer English longer, since 893, when King Alfred year 900, “Yule” came to mean Christmas sleigh drawn by eight reindeer landing on the is shown, because unlike other draft animals, the Great wrote down tales he heard from and its festivities. Further back, these words roof. And likewise we know the lyrics of the reindeer will not work together in teams. Othere of Hålogaland, including “rein,” came from the Old Norse jól, which in addi­ enduring song “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Rein­ Like other literary figures of his time, poet the Norwegian name of the animal. That tion to being the root of the modern Norwe­ deer,” about a ninth reindeer with a luminous Moore may have read extracts of Scheffer’s became the source-word in most European gian word “jul,” is the root of the word “joli” nose, first recorded by singing cowboy Gene book, but not seen the illustrated original. languages. The mere mention of a rein-word in French, meaning lovely, nice, or pleasing, Autry in 1949, based on a poem written Apparently poet Moore combined the now connotes happenings in the far north, and from it the word “jolly” in English.

Photos: (above) Norwegian National Library, (right) Wikimedia Commons These two images illustrate the jump from Sámi to Santa: the left is a woodcut of a reindeer-drawn pulk, page 106 of The History of Lapland by Johan Scheffer, published in 1674, and the right, “San- ta’s Sleigh Lands on a Roof,” accompanied an 1862 edition of “A Visit From Saint Nicholas.” It is the work of the artist F.O.C. Darley. 8 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly christmas Picea abies spruces up New York The nation’s most famous “tannenbaum” has, since 1986, been a noble Norway Spruce

Victoria Hofmo Brooklyn, N.Y.

Picea abies, aka the Norway Spruce, is once again the Christmas tree of choice at Rockefeller Center. Perhaps it is this tree’s majestic skyward span, which can reach over 200 feet, or its lush deep green branches that make it popular. All I know is that, as a New Yorker who considers several visits to this tree a must over the Christmas Season, it never fails to inspire awe and delight. In 1931, at the height of the Great De­ pression, demolition workers at the site of what was to become Rockefeller Center chipped in to buy a Christmas tree, a 20-ft. balsam fir, on which they hung decorations made by their families. A wonderful start to this beloved annual tradition. This year’s tree was donated by Albert Asendorf and his partner, Nancy Puchalski. It thrived in the front yard of their home in Gardiner, New York. Trees are selected through photos sent in by prospective donors. Rockefeller Center head gardener Erik Pauze made the final decision. He saw the image and thought, “Wow this is a great tree.” He went up to Ulster County and looked at it and declared it the one. The tree weighs 10 tons, is 78 feet tall, Photo: Anthony Quintano and has lived for eight decades. When the with a Norwegian beauty. A Norway Spruce 1957, 23 of the 25 tallest trees at Rockefeller More lights than tree: five miles of LED tree comes down it still keeps giving, as it is is also given annually from the city of Oslo Center have been Norway Spruce. So, why lights, powered by solar panels, adorn donated to Habitat for Humanity who wisely to the cities of London, Edinburgh, Wash­ not visit Rockefeller Center this Christmas each year’s tree. Pictured here is the uses the wood to build homes. ington, D.C., and New York in a show of to see this piece of Norway, the noble Picea tree from 2013, also a Norway Spruce. New York is not the only place graced solidarity for their help during WWII. Since abies.

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www.uio.no/summerschool ∙ [email protected] ∙ 1-800-639-0058 norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 9 christmas On the darkest day, a tale of two “Lucys” Santa Lucia and Lussi-Long Night: the Saint and Witch battling for control of the solstice The Nordic observation of St. Lucy is first attested in the Middle Ages and contin­ Judith Gabriel Vinje ued after the Protestant Reformation in the Los Angeles 1520s and 1530s, although the modern cel­ ebration is only about 200 years old. It’s a tradition that marks the beginning While her story is set on a far-off Medi­ of the Christmas season. On December 13, terranean island, there is a more localized Norwegian and Swedish girls wearing can­ angle. During the Middle Ages, there was dlelit wreaths portray and celebrate Santa a severe famine in the Swedish province Lucia, a fourth century Sicilian girl who be­ of Varmland. It was said that a large white came a Christian martyr. vessel loaded with food appeared on Lake Santa Lucia pageants also remain popu­ Vanern. At the helm was a young woman in lar among many Scandinavians in the U.S., white, her head encircled by a crown of radi­ such as the one held each year at California ant beams. The ship vanished as soon as it Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, Ca­ was unloaded. lif., where Santa Lucia and her escorts are Lussinatten has largely been forgotten elected by the student body, and Santa Lu­ in Norway since the beginning of the 20th cia processions at Sons of Norway julebord century, although it is still remembered as events. an ominous night and perhaps celebrated in Not emerging in Sweden until the some remote areas. 1700s, Santa Lucia festivities were original­ But the day of the Winter Solstice is still ly observed mainly among the upper classes. the shortest day of the year, and in the far The celebration wasn’t given much attention North, the light may last for a few hours at in Norway until World War II, when it was Photo: Claudia Gründer / Wkimedia Commons best. The day of Winter Solstice is hardly a imported as a movement to try to bring light We all know about this Lucia, with a crown of light on her head. But what about the darker Lussi? day at all, but is more like a short flicker of in a time of darkness as a protest against dark blue light at noon. The sun is not seen. German occupation. hadn’t finished all their work, they feared she would come and snatch them away. On Norse myth tells that the sun was a But there’s a far older winter tradition Lussi would smash their chimneys. the eve of December 13, children would goddess named Sol or Sunna, who drove a that once cast fear into the hearts of Nor­ Such terrifying legends fed the imagina­ write the word “Lussi” on doors, fences, chariot across the sky on an eternal flight to wegian peasants and rural folk. It revolved tion of country folk for centuries, and Lussi and walls. “Lussi fires” used to be burned in escape the devouring darkness. Throughout around another Lussi—this one not a saint, had company—a whole array of terrifying many parts of northern Europe at that time history, there has been some goddess figure more like a witch, or a reverse version of creatures, trolls, and undead spirits, kidnap­ to celebrate the changing of the sun’s course. associated with the return of the sun. As for the sun goddess that was revered in ancient ping anyone foolish enough to venture out­ As for Santa Lucia, one of a scant hand­ Lussi’s dark and terrifying characteristics, Rome this time of year. (The very name side. Known as the oskorei, the wild hunt, ful of saints honored in Protestant Scandi­ perhaps she is the victim of gossip, the tell­ comes from the Latin word for light, lux.) this dreaded winter parade was on the look­ navian countries, her festival of light seems ing of tall tales by those who don’t want to She shares the December 13 date for out for earthly victims. more appealing to many than the nightmare see her receive the honor she may deserve as good reason: under the old calendar, that was In her book “Keeping Christmas: Yule­ of the wild hunt. a sun goddess, bringing the return of the sun. the date of the Winter Solstice. Thus, it was tide Traditions in Norway and the New known in Norway as Lussi Long-Night— Land,” Kathleen Stokker of Luther College Lussi Langnatte—longest night of the year. notes that these folk legends “told of indi­ For 500 years, December 13 marked viduals being snatched up, carried away and the solstice. This was the date when the sun then turned loose, dazed and manhandled, in turned in its course, bringing on longer days. some far-off place; other victims disappeared When a new calendar became official in forever.” In her book, Stokker writes of the 1700, the solstice was moved to its present centuries of folklore that have contributed to date of Dec. 21. But Lussi Night remained Norway’s unique identity. the same. Especially features such as Lussi Lang­ Christmas memories Yule—the pre-Christian winter cel­ natte, when most Norwegians would be Norwegian traditions are abundant in my Christmas memories, ebration—was the most important holiday afraid to leave their homes. Someone had although I wasn’t aware that they were specifically Norwegian at the in Scandinavia and Northern Europe. And to stay awake all night to protect the farm time. Both of my parents were children of Norwegian immigrants. Add many of the old traditions, some from the on this, the darkest night of the year. People to that the fact that my father was a Lutheran pastor, and the Norwegian Viking Age, others from ancient Rome, per­ hung axes, knives, or scissors over the doors influence multiplies. sisted, especially in the rural areas. of their homes, and painted crosses every­ One of my favorite memories is of singing Norwegian Christmas All work had to be done by Decem­ where. songs, both in church and at home, even though I didn’t speak or under­ ber 13, especially threshing, slaughtering, Children were especially terrified of stand Norsk. My mother’s mother loved to go around the Christmas tree cleaning, and the spinning of yarn. If people Lussi, for it was said that if they misbehaved, while singing “O jul med din glede,” and I thought it was so cool that my grandma loved to clap and sing and dance and laugh. And in church we always sang “Jeg er så glad hver julekveld” (to­ day it’s even in the ELCA hymnal—in Norwegian!). I loved it, and I God Jul! was proud to sing the words, but I was a bit puzzled by it for a long from the Scandinavian Cultural Center at time. I couldn’t understand why we were singing about Jesus’s foot in Pacific Lutheran University the second line, “for da ble Jesus født.” We always celebrated on Christmas Eve. We kids (I am the fourth of six) couldn’t wait to get home from the late church service and open Wishing you merry holidays our presents—one at a time—with a big hug and thank you to the giver. and a happy New Year! We didn’t have Santa Claus in our house or “believe” in Santa… Some of my friends are horrified by that—oh you poor thing!—and think it undoubtedly caused a character flaw. I do have plenty of flaws, but none Upcoming events: were caused by not believing in Santa. The most important thing about Christmas in our home was the January 11th & 25th, 2016 - love that filled it. I feel so fortunate to have grown up in such a loving Norwegian Conversation Hour! environment, and I remember thinking to myself (this must have been when I was about ten years old) that I felt sorry for other children be­ cause they were not in my family. Join our membership today! Janet L. Ruud

Contact: [email protected] (253)-535-7322 10 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly christmas The Norwegian tree that grew like Topsy embroidery enclosed in a circular wooden frame. Another round ornament contains the < tree Norwegian flag in needlepoint. Both these From page 1 came from a friend who once was in the San Pedro lodge with us; now we both live in the dition that has endured for over 40 years. Pacific Northwest. The following year I chanced upon a This square piece of Norwegian chip shop in San Diego’s Old Town that had box­ carving I bought at the Sons of Norway In­ es of candle clips for Christmas trees. Mind­ ternational Convention in Washington, D.C., ful of my mom’s stories about grandpa jump­ in 2004, the year our son was stationed in ing up during Christmas Eve dinner to stop Iraq with other Marines while we, along with a fire from spreading on the candlelit tree, I all the delegates, attended a concert by the bought a box of 10 such clips plus a box of Marine Corps Band on what happened to be small red candles. my birthday. “Ah,” I thought, “a genuine old-fash­ When Uncle Hagbarth and I went to ioned Norwegian Christmas tree.” This time I the 1986 Norway Day at Minnehaha Park acquired an actual small tree, which still need­ in Minneapolis where he lived, I bought this ed the support of dirt and rocks in a can, the elaborate white stabbur with rosemaling and trunk being too small for a regular stand. Alas, later that week when I drove him, then 98, the branches of a Douglas Fir are not meant to to Decorah, Iowa, for a Sangerfest where he support candle clips. By the time Christmas performed a solo, I purchased this blue oval came, the branches were drooping from the ornament featuring a nisse in a snowstorm. weight of those charming red candles. These woven hearts (kurver) were made Nobles to the rescue! In subsequent Ju­ by a friend in my Idaho lodge. And this is letide seasons I bought a two- to three-foot the 2010 ornament, a Christmas tree with our Noble Fir with its stiff and sturdy branches— convention logo on it that we gave delegates and pricey tag, which kept me to the min­ when we hosted the Sons of Norway Interna­ iature versions. But these, with a little extra tional Convention in Coeur d’Alene. Asbjorn creative help from my engineer husband, and I were co-chairs. could be persuaded to spend the holiday sea­ And I considered not hanging these this son in a tree stand where water could extend year? What was I thinking? their stay. I would put the little tree on a high The flow of memories continued as each stool, giving it a central focus in the dining ornament was selected from the tray and the room. For many years the 10 candles were perfect spot chosen. Look at these tiny knit­ the only lights and these primarily for décor. ted red and white mittens, barely two inches I was slowly acquiring a few little paint­ long, that I bought in Norway one year. And ed wooden ornaments like stars, bells, or these two hearts woven from birch bark, also goats at the annual bazaar in the San Pedro purchased in Norway. Norwegian Seaman’s Church. Asbjorn and I And this, I realize, as I continue with the were married in that church so the ornaments trimming, is indeed the heart of the matter. purchased there now hold a host of memo­ The many hearts on this tree are reflective ries, not just of our wedding, but of the New Photo: Barbara K. Rostad not only of a commonly used Norwegian Year’s Eve Asbjorn won a trip to Norway as “Topsy” in full form. The only thing missing is the strings of Norwegian flags. motif from waffles to dishes to table runners the top prize in a raffle at the church or the to Christmas ornaments, but also the heart of Christmas Eve services we attended there more progress for several days, caught up in Hagbarth, I fell in love with my ancestral na­ Christmas itself and the many memories so with the chance to sing carols in Norwegian. the usual Christmas frenzy. Suddenly it was tion. Through him I met many shirttail rela­ dear to my own heart. When we moved to a home on 20 acres almost Christmas Eve, and the tree was still tives including a third cousin my age that I It isn’t the finished tree with flags and in a wooded area of North Idaho with a view just standing there. still visit now on trips to Norway. lights and ornaments that matters nearly as of Hauser Lake, I discovered our property “Do I really have to do this?” I asked Once home, I began studying Norwe­ much as the process of unpacking and plac­ offered a variety of evergreens, including my myself. There’s other decorating to be done. gian on my own and when I moved to Cali­ ing each one, remembering the story that favorite, the Grand Fir. We have not bought Packages to wrap. Cookies to bake. But the fornia, I joined Sons of Norway where I took each has to tell, stories that document not a tree since. tree is cut and in my kitchen; the lights and language classes. I met Asbjorn at a Sons of just where I have been and what I have done This house has a huge kitchen, so with ornaments await. Do I really want to just for­ Norway convention. Uncle H., as I affection­ but the friends and family I have encountered space and a free renewable resource, the get about it all? ately referred to him, sang at our wedding along the way. Norwegian tree grew, rather like Topsy; that Sighing, I strung the requisite white and at our son Erik’s baptism. Of course, not all such ornaments go on is, with no plan or direction, it gradually be­ lights, then started hanging ornaments. Here are those tiny stars and other wood­ the Norwegian tree; some are in the Big Tree came larger. The twig had become a three- Here’s the white ceramic heart edged in blue en ornaments from the Seaman’s Church. box. Like Snoopy wearing a Viking helmet. foot Noble and now the Grand Fir went from and painted with flowers, bought in 1969 They go in the upper branches, just like the Or the Kristin and Haakon dolls from the four to five, then six or seven. The last sev­ on my first trip to Norway, a journey I took tiny white church so like Trinity Lutheran, 1994 Lillehammer Olympics who take up eral years the chosen tree has first been taken courtesy of my granduncle, Hagbarth Bue, the country church in North Dakota where I residence annually in the upper branches of to our Sons of Norway lodge for the party 83 at the time. Once too large for my smaller taught Sunday School as a teenager. And the the Big Tree. there, then brought home to assume its place versions of a Norwegian tree, it now takes small nisser that are actually gift tags from The Big Tree? Oh. That would be the in our kitchen. its place on the seven-foot fir in my kitchen. Norway sent by a friend’s relative for her to tree we place in our living room, which has Last year I got it home and set up, un­ It was a trip that changed my life. I’d use over here. At one time they were perfect the vaulted ceiling with space enough to ac­ packed the ornaments and laid them out on a been raised a North Dakota Norwegian but for my tabletop tree. commodate a ten-footer. But that’s another cloth-covered TV tray nearby—and made no touring the landscape together with Uncle And look, a small piece of Hardanger story… Subscribe to the Weekly 2709 SAN PABLO AVE — BERKELEY, CA 94702 Phone: (800) 854-6435 — Email: [email protected] one year: $ Featuring great Nordic products 70 Books • Candy and Chocolates • Canned goods • Condiments Cooking wares • Dry Goods • Gift items • Specialty meats and more! Photo: Karen Schulte Call toll-free at (206) 784-4617, email [email protected], or mail a check to: Visit us online: www.nordichouse.com Norwegian American Weekly, 7301 5th Ave NE, Ste A, Seattle, WA 98115. norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 11 christmas Sheep heads: a Norwegian love story If Idaho’s largest potato can’t win a father over, what is one to do?

Terje Birkedal the biggest, grandest Idaho potato he Anchorage, Alaska could find. This gesture won her heart. But that was not enough. The man While I was doing some background now had to win over Urd’s father, who research prior to Ambassador Kåre Aas’s had grown up in Voss where they have visit to Sons of Norway Bernt Balchen a local delicacy called smalahove. This Lodge in Anchorage, Alaska, in the consists of half of a sheep’s head cut spring of 2015, I came upon a fun story down the middle. After it is split it goes in the Washington Post. The article was in the smokehouse for days and days. about Ms. Urd Berge Milbury, Cultural Apparently, Urd’s father tested all her and Information Officer for the Norwe­ serious boyfriends with this dish. To win gian Embassy, who was to accompany approval one would need to eat it with the Ambassador on the trip to Alaska. obvious delight and relish and without The article, “A Norwegian Father’s too much akevitt. Christmas Test,” was written by Jon Kel­ So Urd took her as-yet-unapproved ly of the Washington Post and published “Potato Boyfriend” to Norway for on December 3, 2012. Christmas for his test. He was so smit­ The article centered on Milbury’s ten with Urd, a beautiful blonde, that key role in the erection of an artistic ar­ he ate it, as they say in the Norwegian tificial 32-foot Christmas tree at Union fairy tales, “snip, snap, snute” (“snute” Station each year. This is an annual gift means “snout” in Norwegian). The fa­ from Norway to the people of Washing­ ther was amazed at how enthusiastically ton, D.C. But the article in the Washing­ he wolfed down the food and cleaned his ton Post also told a truly Norwegian love plate. He was won over on the spot and story that I repeat in my own words here. approved of Urd’s American fiancé. That I have personally asked Urd if the story is how she got the “Milbury” tacked on is true, and she has confirmed its verac­ to her Norwegian name. ity. So now the tale. Todd Milbury and his Norwegian Years ago Urd met a man online wife now have two small children, and who then lived in Idaho. After they got these too have taken to their Norwegian to know each other better through online heritage by eating smalahove with gusto chats, the man realized that Norwegians when they visit Norway. Photos: The blanz / Wikimedia Commons love potatoes. So he decided to send Urd Digging in to the sheep’s head is clearly an act of love. SEALIFT Inc. 68 West Main Street, Oyster Bay, New York 11771 Tel: (516) 922-1000 – Fax: (516) 922-6526 www.sealiftinc.com – [email protected]

Vi Ønsker Alle

God Jul og Godt Nytt År Fredd Hoff Isaksen & Ragnar Meyer-Knutsen

Independent ~ U.S. Flag Liner Service ~ Ship Owners Ship Operators & Project Managers 12 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly christmas in photos

Maine Nordmenn celebrate Julefest

Photos: (clockwise from top) David Selleck, Don Johnson, David Selleck Clockwise from top: President Anne-Lise Moson places the St. Lucia crown on Lucy Elizabeth Bradford at the Maine Nordmenn annual Julefest. Maine Nordmenn’s Sports and Recreation Director Herb Hoppe pauses for a picture with his granddaughters at the lodge’s annual Julefest. From left to right: Brooke Laney; Lucy Brad- ford, this year’s Lucia; Abbey Laney, and Sophie Bradford. Maine Nordmenn dance around the juletre at their annual Julefest at the Knights of Columbus Lodge in Brunswick, Maine. Celebrate the Holiday Season with an Anthony’s Lutefisk Dinner!

Join us at Anthony’s HomePort Shilshole Bay in Ballard or Anthony’s at Cap Sante Marina in Anacortes for a traditional Lutefisk dinner. Anthony’s Lutefisk comes from Olsen Fish Company, founded in 1910, which is recognized as one of the finest Lutefisk producers in the world.

December 1 - December 24 for just $19.95!

Anthony’s HomePort ~ Shilshole Bay Anthony’s at Cap Sante Marina 6135 Seaview Avenue West • Seattle 1207 Q Avenue • Anacortes www.anthonys.com For Reservations Call: 206.783.0780 For Reservations Call: 360.588.0333 norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 13 christmas in photos Seattle NACC Skåls at annual Julebord

Photos: Tim Hunter Above: The Seattle Golf Club provides a beautiful and festive backdrop for this luncheon. Top right: Dr. Nina Svino and Victoria Sangrey Hunter, the latter of whom was named Person of the Year. Right and bottom right: Norwegian students from PLU, as Tim Hunter joked in his song, “drop the average age to 50.”

Staff Compilation raffle winners were announced for the very impressive Norwegian American Weekly list of prizes—in addition to guest appearances by a “piano tester” who just happened to wander into the On Friday, December 4, Seattle’s NACC once party (Joe Carolus) and perform a stunning rendition again celebrated its Julebord at the Seattle Golf Club. of “Carol of the Bells,” and Kris Templin’s always im­ The weather was momentarily sunny, with stunning pressive singing of “O Holy Night.” views of Puget Sound treating guests during this lun­ The NACC’s own Victoria Sangrey Hunter was cheon event. awarded the Person of the Year Award, in recognition The inimitable Tim Hunter hosted again this year, of her service to that group, the 17th of May commit­ noting that he’d gotten away with the previous year’s tee, and a number of other Norwegian organizations in singing. This year, he doubled down by not only sing­ Seattle. The trickiest part was keeping the award a se­ ing his own “letter to Ole & Lena” (to the tune of cret from her, but the other board members somehow “Camp Grenada”) but also inviting Leif Eie, Nordic pulled off that feat and a surprised and visibly moved Heritage Museum and Leif Erikson Lodge bigwig, up Hunter accepted the award. to sing his own song. This was a brief, cheerful ditty Additionally, this year for only the second time about an ice skater—with a surprise ending. Hunter ever the Cutting Edge Award was presented to Kaare wrapped his song by promising, “Now the best part, Ness for his work as a founder of Trident Seafoods. and you’ll all cheer: that is all the singing I will do ‘til Throughout all of it, ice-chilled Linie flowed, and next year.” a good time was had by all. For many NACC mem­ Other sounds included an almost steady stream bers, this event marks the true beginning of the holi­ of skåling, lively conversation, and excited cheers as day season.

God Jul og Godt God Jul og Godt Merry Merry Blessings to all! Nyttår! Nyttår! Christmas! Christmas! Janelle and From all of us at Janaki Claire Olsen NAW Solveig Nygaard Oliver H. Simonson Palm Coast, Fla. Happy holidays! Seattle, Wash. Marysville, Wash. Seattle, Wash.

God Jul og God Jul og Wishing Friends & Family God Jul & Godt Nyttår Godt Nyttår Godt Nyttår Eric, Sym, Anafina & Sarpsborg Millennium Norman Jorgen Ronneberg Karl Jacobsen Committee San Francisco, Calif. Port Townsend, Wash.

God Jul og God Jul og Godt Nyttår Have a Happy & Godt Nyttår til våre lesere! Responsible Holiday! Robert & Elizabeth Norheim John Erik Old Ballard Liquor Co. Seattle, Wash. Seattle, Wash. Seattle, Wash. (206) 858-8010

God Jul og God Jul og God Jul og Godt Nyttår! Godt Nyttår! Godt Nyttår Brian A. Marquis Jim & Vicky Jaquish Per og Shigeko Janesville, Wis. Seattle, Wash. Santa Cruz, Calif. 14 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly christmas in photos Jubilant Julefest Exhilarates Twin Cities’ Norwegians

Leslee Lane Hoyum Rockford, Minn.

“The second annual Twin Cities Julefest was a bag with gjetost and a Norwegian Consulate baggage great success,” said Jørn Remmem, committee chair. tag courtesy of the Honorary Norwegian Consulate “We had a spectacular time at Le Méridien Chambers General, Minneapolis, and a discount certificate for in Minneapolis. Our hope is to continue to create an Vikre Distillery of Duluth, where one can purchase its atmosphere that is welcoming to adults of all ages.” handmade akevitt called Øvrevann. Guests experienced a variety of Norwegian Christ­ The committee wishes to thank its sponsors: Nor­ mas traditions blended with influences of the 21st cen­ wegian American Chamber of Commerce, Faegre, tury. They were treated to a welcoming drink of gløgg, Baker and Daniels, Gray Plant Mooty, Robins Kaplan, sensational music by the Peter Skjervold Combo, hors Honorary Norwegian Consulate General Minneapolis, d’oeuvres, a variety of tantalizing food stations, a Nor­ Sons of Norway, Norway House, Norsk Høstfest, Lit­ wegian Christmas carol sing-along, an outdoor fire pit, tler Mendelson, Torske Klubben, George and Leslee an abundance of door prizes delivered by Julefest’s Hoyum, Moss & Barnett, Saga Klubben, and our sup­ very own julenisse, and great camaraderie. porting organizations, Mindekirken, Lakselaget, and As a holiday sendoff, all guests received a gift Norwegians Worldwide, Minneapolis Chapter.

Photo: Leslee Lane Hoyum Former Honorary Consul General for Norway Gary Gandrud and wife Mimi.

Photos: (left) Christina Carleton, (others)Leslee Lane Hoyum Left: Leslee Lane Hoyum and Britt Ardakani, committee members, enjoy the evening. Above: Julefest charms adults of all ages. Andrea Nelson and her grandfather, Bill Nelson, enjoy their evening together. Above right: Liv Norderhaug, Corrie Knudson, and Rachel Peterson enjoy the festivities. Right: A Julefest is never complete without sing- ing Norwegian carols.

God Jul og godt God Jul og Godt Nyttår! God Jul og nyttår to all friends Skogfjorden, Godt Nyttår! Concordia’s Norwegian Harold & Joyce Rannestad Language Village Kim & Krystn Nesselquist Bridgewater, Conn. Bemidji, Minn., & in your heart Kenmore, Wash.

God Jul og Godt Ønsker deg en Nyttår to Burton Hill! God Jul from God Jul og et godt nytt år Bobbie & Vic, Cheryl & John Carin Peterson Kruger Erika Nordhaugen Walnut Creek & Ballard Chelan, Wash. Minneapolis, Minn..

God jul og velsignet God Jul og God Jul, Jill Beatty— godt nyttår! Godt Nyttår! San Francisco, Calif. Janet Ruud fra Mike & Daughters of Norway Tacoma, Wash. Donita Zblewski www.daughtersofnorway.com norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 15 christmas in photos

Photos: Leslee Lane Hoyum Bottom left: Norwegian American Chamber of Commerce, Upper Midwest Chapter, Chair Ole Koppang and Julefest Chair Jørn Rem- men enjoy the fruits of their labors. Left: Anya Kroll (l) won a beautiful plate from Porsgrund Porselensfabrikk that was present- ed to her by Decorations Chair Sarah Halvor- son Brunko, Julenisse Ethan Bjelland, and Vice Consul for Norway Christina Carleton. Above left: The Peter Skjervold Combo dazzled party goers. Peter is on saxophone. Above right: Christine Koppang, Nick Dyer, Rachel Petterson, and Mark Holterhaus are among the enthusiastic young adults building the Norwegian community of the future.

Photo: Anya Kroll All good things must end and Ethan Bjelland with Bradley Harmon dismantled the Christmas tree. Why wasn’t my Julebord or Julefest covered? NAW can only print what we receive. Next year please don’t hesitate to send your pictures in for our Christmas section!

God Jul og Godt Nyttår Merry Christmas God Jul og from Ms. Hen Jonas, Elsa, Mari www.mshenspen.com Godt Nyttår & Dan Lysne Amy Henrickson Susan Mason Lake Tapps, Wash. Grandville, Mich. Basking Ridge, N.J.

God Jul fra Chicago! God Jul og God Jul og Godt Nyttår Leve og elske Godt Nyttår! Daughters of Norway, Carl Baar Helene Sobol Pauline Fjelde Lodge #51 Logan Square, Chicago, Ill. San Francisco, Calif. Minneapolis, Minn.

God Jul og Ønsker dere God Jul og Godt Godt Nyttår God Jul Nyttår til Alle Venner! Sons of Norway Odd & Audrey Vaarvik Jon Lind Vesterdalen Lodge 2-131 Chewelah, Wash. Ocean Shores, Wash. Kent/Auburn, Wash. 16 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly christmas A rose-painted Christmas story

Photos: Larrie Wanberg Left: The rose-painted chest in action in the home as a repository for gifts and cards. Above: Detail of the keyhole and the beautiful rosemaling that adorn the heirloom chest.

Larrie Wanberg I visited my future in-laws’ three-story mailing tube of the family tree dating back to the rose-painted icon can become an icon that Features Editor home just 12 years after WWII. A clothing year AD 800. one carries to open stories of heritage with the storefront run by the grandfather was on the Included in the chest was a box of 8-mm swipe of a finger across a digital screen. It’s magical to see the sparkle and won­ ground floor, residence on the second floor, videos that document our romance when Many stories of ancestors need to be derment in the eyes of my children of pre­ and the marvelous high-pitched attic was meeting through her photos in two issues of memorialized to upcoming generations. school age when I view a home movie taken like a family museum of artifacts. The base­ National Geographic Magazine. (She served For example, the story of my wife’s 52 years ago, now digitized, of a Julenisse’s ment was a series of “lockers” for vegetables, as a guide to Chief Editor Brown in 1954 grandfather who skied from Voss to Oslo visit to their maternal grandparent’s home in dried meats, and fish and a special space for and was featured again in 1957, when I was to attend Holmenkollen Ski Event, broke Voss, Norway, on Christmas Eve. making 12-day Jul beer from Viking yeast a Fulbrighter at University of Oslo. She be­ a bone in a lower leg, splinted his leg with A four-minute video, taken originally embedded in wool patches. came a Fulbrighter the following year to Lu­ two tree branches and some strips of cloth­ from 8-mm film, is now posted on YouTube In the attic above was a rose-painted ther College in Decorah, Iowa. Years later, ing, and skied on to Oslo. I remember him so family members with a digital “key” can chest from my wife’s grandmother that was Editor Brown invited us to lunch and a tour well, as he was intrigued with my being a view and share on-demand across continents a gift to her. of the magazine, but that’s another story.) Norwegian American. He had huge hands, and across five generations. My soon-to- Thereafter in our family, we always had To pass on the tradition of closely-held like a mini baseball glove, and a gruff voice, be eight great grandchildren can view their the rose-painted chest as a centerpiece to our possessions, we had a mini rose-painted but he was a storyteller. grandparents as they were as children—at home. When you opened the chest with a chest placed at the foot of the bed for each of Or my mother’s mother who received the age that today’s children are now. wrought iron key, the name of the ancestor— our four children. Each chest was painted in immigrant families at a rail head in Elroy, My wife’s family home that was across “Betty”—was scrolled in script. The chest, different colors and had a key and the name Wis., and helped them move on westward in the street from the historic stone church in which was handed down to our family, stored of the child on the chest. large covered wagons built by her grandfa­ Voss, dating back to the year AD 1000 and within it the evolving treasures of material With today’s diversity, none of my nine ther. My mother’s father operated a general St. Olaf times, was one of the few buildings possession of a family heritage and lineage. grandchildren have married a spouse with store and once fired a temporary employee left standing from precision bombing by the Inside this chest was my wife’s bunad Norwegian roots. Yet Norwegian heritage named Knut Hamsun, the famed author, be­ British that took out the railroad terminal a from Voss, weavings, wall hangings, memo­ is still strong through a virtual rose-painted cause he repeatedly disappeared to sleep on block away on the other side of the church. rabilia, old photos, and a 30-foot scroll in a chest with a digital key that can be opened the floor sacks in the storage room. on YouTube during Christmas for in-home And my father, who served 45 years in viewing or on a picture cell phone for mobile one congregation in rural North Dakota, and family members who are traveling the world. helped find the gravesite of famous skier God jul og godt nyttår The goal is to add compelling stories to pass on to a new generation. My hope is that See > rose-painted, page 17 ønskes dere alle fra Embla Losje #2! The Lighter Side with Donald V. Mehus Now with Christmas music resounding everywhere during this festive Yuletide Season, it might be apt to recall a note about a charming Christmas classic. So in case you’ve missed it before, here we go! In old-time Russia, the Communist Rudolf and his wife Anya were enjoying breakfast in their Moscow apartment early one December day. Glancing out the window, Anya exclaims: “Oh, look, it’s sleeting!” Rudolf, peering out in turn, corrects her, “No that’s not sleet, my dear. It’s rain!” Holding her ground, Anya demurs, insisting it’s sleet, and the discussion goes back and forth, until finally her husband firmly puts his foot down: “Rudolph the Red knows rain, dear!”

Warmest best wishes for Christmas and all the Holiday Season to all of you at the Norwegian American Weekly and to all our friends everywhere, here and abroad! norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 17 christmas Picture-perfect ornaments: Remembering loved ones during the holiday

Shelby Gilje Seattle, Wash.

About two decades ago when beloved elders began dying off in my family and that of my husband, I happened upon a magazine article that seemed like a nice way to keep their memories alive, especially during the holidays. The writer suggested buying tiny frames and adding pictures of family members past and present to decorate the Christmas tree. Thus began my collection. A wag asked if one had to be deceased to make an appear­ ance on my tree. “Absolutely not!” I said. So when I decorate with the collection there are my four granddaughters—Analise and Kristina, twins, now 14; Chloe, 12; and Ol­ ivia, 10—at various ages and stages, some­ times missing teeth, sometimes in tears. Plus long-departed ancestors with whom they can become acquainted and present-day family members. There are special in-laws and an occasional outlaw. After all, this is about his­ tory and storytelling, family skeletons and all. It was sometimes difficult to find the Photo: Shelby Gilje right size frame to accommodate a special An assortment of ornaments tells the story of a family. picture and not weigh the tree branches down. Frames have cost from $3 and up. up the stairs. “I don’t need any help,” she couple in a restaurant: “Yes, I’ve lived in dance recital picture were in color you would Special, round silver frames for the grand­ said firmly. A brief argument ensued; I chose Texas for ‘bout 45 years.” They just smiled. know that my costume was peach along with daughters were $25 each. (It is a Bestemor’s not to become involved, remaining in the He still wears cowboy boots and hats with my headdress, which had a bird-like beak prerogative to splurge when it comes to kitchen. his jeans and did live in Texas for a time as covered in glitter. I cannot explain the beak. grandkids if she wants to, right?) Knowing “Well,” Svein finally said, “you are just an adult. These days he calls himself “Left­ My in-laws, Magnus Sem Gilje and Sel­ about the collection, many family members a stubborn Norwegian!” Myrtle took that in over Cowboy.” And he has a tall tale about ma Elisabeth Naesheim, appear quite serious have supplied frames with their pictures. briefly then roared with laughter and coun­ how that nickname evolved too. in their wedding finery on June 3, 1922, in Over time I have been given numerous tered: “What do you think you are?” Svein There’s a shot of my Uncle Bill holding Stavanger, Norway. Her headdress reflects aging family photos that are not dated or was born in Norway; Myrtle’s father also me up at some family event. I am about four the flapper look of that era with a veil over identified by name, so I’ve tried to be con­ had been a Norwegian immigrant. Both were or five years and he’s a handsome teenager. her shoulder. Her bridegroom is in a tuxe­ sistent in recording that information on the laughing as they came arm-in-arm for din­ When I was about three and a half years old, do with white shirt and tie, holding elegant back of these small pictures. ner. he let me ride in the rumble seat of his first white gloves. All the photos warm my heart during the My brother Kip has always been grate­ car. His mother, my maternal grandmother, There are other wedding pictures too: holidays. ful that I did not frame a picture of him as was furious. “She could have fallen out!” mine and Svein’s, and that of our daughter, Pictures of my late husband, Svein, and a naked five-year-old wearing only his cow­ Grandma raged. “No, she’s too smart for Kari Gilje and Mike Chiu. For comic relief my maternal grandmother, Myrtle Grace Ei­ boy boots, hat, and holster astride a rocking that,” he said. I loved the adventure. Since there’s a picture of my son, Kurt Gilje, and num Evans, help me recall the day when he horse. I do have a picture of my brother, Joe, there were only 12 years between us in age, daughter-in-law, Jennifer Hlaudy, in goofy picked her up at a nearby nursing home to at about age five wearing his red cowboy we sometimes were more like siblings. glasses headed off to a costume party. join us for dinner. Then in her 90s, she de­ hat, appropriate scarf, shirt, boots, and other There are a number of black-and-white Now I have nearly 50 framed picture or­ clined to let him take her arm while coming duds. This is the age he once told an older photos in lace-like frames. If my childhood naments, all with treasured memories.

<- rose painted From page 16

Sondre Norheim, who homesteaded on the prairie before the territory became a state. My dad didn’t speak English until he started school and often preached in Norwegian, sometimes at Norway Lutheran Church. For myself as a storyteller and writer, I retraced my youthful footsteps by narrating on camera the story of when I first met my wife in Norway in 2011. My filmmaker son Lars and myself were in Norway to present three short films at the Fourth Annual Digital Storytelling Conference in Lillehammer. With so many stories yet to be told to my great grandchildren, I’m dedicating 2016 to the initiative and thereby keeping in touch as the patriarch in America of the family farm name from Olden Nordfjord since Vi­ king times. Photo: Jill Lien Beatty My favorite ornament is my Grandfather Stephen To see part of this heritage visit www.you- Thompson’s (1890-1953) Santa. I think he bought this Santa in the 1930s in North Dakota. It was tube.com/watch?v=YZCy3DQN2n8. always his job to hang it high on the tree. My mother Lillian (1921-2015) hung it on our tree Photo courtesy of Larrie Wanberg every year after he died, and now I do after she The family house in Voss, across from a church. died this year. It’s a very special ornament to me. 18 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly puzzles Puzzles by Sölvi Dolland Norwenglish Crossword by Andrew R. Thurson “Jul i mange land” Directions: Translate English words to Norwegian, or vice versa, before posting in the puzzle. #8 / 92 A crOSS/ 36. Amber Down/ 28. Elg Vannrett 37. Animal Loddrett 29. Starte (golf) 1. Ptarmigan 38. Sverd 1. Halt 31. Fox 5. Turn (page) 41. Mouse 2. Profession 34. Bedrøvet 8. Mislykkes 42. Hun 3. Smerte 35. Peer 12. Araber 45. Hour 4. Fjære 37. Sløves 13. Avalanche 46. X-mas carol 5. Kost 38. Stilk 14. Glare 48. Episk 6. Feign 39. Tørke 15. Skistøvel 49. Alle 7. Asketre 40. Unnlate 17. Currants 50. Krets 8. Consumer 41. Muldyr 18. Ti 51. Satiated 9. En løgn 42. Swine 19. Elendighet 52. Ja 10. Smådjevler 43. Handle 20. Fet 53. Moan 11. Read 44. Kant 21. Strap 16. Skylder 46. Nøtteskrike 22. Sour 20. Vår 47. Proud 23. Bryr seg om 21. Gjenopplive 26. Tipsy 22. Late 30. Akk 23. Lue 31. Clean 24. Øl 32. Gjennom- 25. Løyen pløyde 26. Seng 35. Milk 27. Hall

Norsk-Engelsk Kryssord by Ed Egerdahl of the Scandinavian Language Institute

Ed Egerdahl wrote these puzzles for Scandinavian Language Institute’s classes at 4. Prøve å imiterer en svenske 65. Lege forkortelse uhyggelig kryp) Seattle’s Nordic Heritage Museum. It’s possible a few of the clues will make more 5. Varmen i peisen (N) 67. Missouri by (forkortelse) 78. Christopher som var IV x super sense if you remember that—there may be some Seattle-centric answers. There’s 6. En gaffel holder med åpen munn 69. Med (/) den minste mynten har 50 79. Nordmenns festlige fettere definitely some wacky humor, and if you find yourself uncertain about a two-letter 7. Kålsalat av dem (N) 81. Nyttårs hilsens fortsettelse (N) answer, try “Ed.” 8. Frokost mat navn 70. Alle som blir ferdig med dette 82. Norske artikler (N) (to ord) (N) = skriv på norsk. Otherwise, the answers are in English. 9. Strekke på pengene kryssordet skulle tjene en! 85. Trettende bokstaver i det greske 10. Rødme, bli eller gjøre rødt 71. Ett hundre av dem har gått siden alfabetet (flertall) VANNRETT 58. Et lite hotell 11. Smil viser (N) 1903 (dansk-N) 87. Løvens navn 1. Et julenek er et godt eksempel 60. Norsk kaffeserverer ord (N) 12. “Han Per”s venn fra tegneserien 72. To ganger—reaksjon til “her er et 88. En sammenlignende konjunksjon 6. Sjokolade / konfekt holdere (N) 61. Retning fra Trondheim til Oslo 13. Shakespeare romantiker nytt norsk klasse kryssord” (N) 11. Lutefisk start (N) (bokstaver) 14. Hundehår faller ut 73. Vekt enhet brukt å male 89. Nyttårs hilsens slutning (dansk-N) 16. Nyttårs hilsens begynnelse 63. #35 loddrett til bestemor 15. Der vi betaler i butikken (N) interessen i kryssordet 90. I hele 35 år det beste stede i #38 17. De samme 64. Glemme å inkludere 23. Motsatte av #53 Vannrett (N) 74. Englands tidligere prinsesse lodd. å lære #41 lodd. (bokstaver) 18. Hawaiisk hilsen 66. Det som sitter igjen etter du fyrte 25. Piknikk kryp (ikke onkels kone!) 76. Lager øl på et bryggeri Åpen reklame! 19. Skip som transporterer olje i peisen (N) 28. Poetisk “før” 77. Hageplage (et hyggelig ord for et 20. Du 1) etter du har arbeidet på 68. Utsmykket med elegant pynt 29. Vår historisk kulturelle bakgrunn dette kryssordet eller 71. Musikk, litteratur eller annet fra Norden (også i mytologi) 2) etter den 15. april 72. Nyttårs hilsens bygynnelse (N) 30. Det betyr “i stilen av” (fransk) 21. “Lena” og “Sven” for eksempel. 75. En klarinett eller obo 31. Ta sjansen 22. Fra den 12. til den 18. januar for 76. Den vestlige verdens sane 32. Der veldig mange norske eksempel. (N) kurturelle hovedstad emigranter kom til (forkort.) 23. Nyttårs hilsens fortsettelse 80. Fransk “ja” 34. Akvatisk dyr (N) 24. Norges søskenbarn i sør 81. Adjektiv for 2016 akkurat nå 35. En av De Vise Menn [les: karer] (forkortelse) (N) 82. Å gjøre dette er “menneskelig.” (spesielt i klasserommet)? 26. Er to faktisk bedre enn én? Tenk! 83. Prinsesse madrasse problem 36. Viking land hvor de har klinket 27. Veldig, veldig mange hundre (N) 84. Uttrykk om amerikansk fotball, glass i vel over 1000 år med #45 30. Arabisk land “______søndag” (to vannrett (N) 32. Den renner men går ingensteds ord) 37. Det man bekjenner i 33. Fiske utstyr 86. Uten andre folk (N) trobekjennelsen (N) (to ord) 34. Kursiv skrift for eksempel 89. Askegrå 38. Den store, vide plassen vi bor 36. År 2016 i forhold til 2015 91. Mange en nasjonal hovedstads 39. En genser er laget fra det 39. Nyttårs hilsens slutning politisk idiot (?!) 41. Det offisielle språket i #76 40. Folke-fest aktivitet 92. Fornye vannrett og #35 loddrett (N) 44. Lennons kone 93. Levende 42. Tok det ene istedenfor det andre 45. Med (˚), nyttårs klinke ord (N) 94. Brød ingrediens 43. Lim manns fornavn 47. Miljø departement (bokstaver) 95. Listen du IKKE skal gjøre 46. Der båten parkeres (N) 50. Tidligere tysk politiker 96. Kjører i en bil 48. En som skriver rim 51. Det star for “Riktig God 49. Bokførerens store måned (N) Rømmegrøt” (bokstaver) 54. Østers smykke 52. Så mais kan høre LODDRETT 57. Liten importert sportsbil 53. Positiv retning (N) 1. Snakke veldig høyt 59. De er bedre enn Seahawks! 55. Værelse, plass (N) 2. Spesiell poetisk form 60. Halvveis forstaving 56. Navnet på strømmen som varmer 3. (uffda?!) frukt til en Minnesota 63. Du kan takke ham for dette Norges kyst norsk immigrant (halv-N) fantastiske kryssordet (eller ikke!) Scandinavian Language Institute We offer classroom instruction in the Puget Sound area with various levels of Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, and Icelandic. God Jul og Godt Nyttår! New classes begin the week of January 4! Join us for “The Best of Norway” Contact us today for registration information. tour this summer! Vitalizing the Scandinavian heritage in the Pacific Northwest for Call for detailed brochure over 30 years through language learning and cultural experience.

Ed Egerdahl, Director (425) 771-5203 • [email protected] • www.SLISeattle.com norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 19 travel Norway Journal, chapter 10: ur Christmas Story, 1997 Andrea Nelson and her husband, Jerry, lived in Hamar, Norway, for a year in 1997-1998. ODuring that year Andrea wrote articles bi- weekly for several newspapers in Wisconsin and Minnesota in order to help her readers visualize what it was like to be living there. The following excerpt is from her “Norway Journal” in which she describes one of the most harrowing (but also most wonderful) Christmas Eves they have ever experienced.

Photos courtesy of Andrea Nelson Far right: Rich Nelson, father of Hannah, after arriving in Hamar late on Christmas Eve. One has to be pretty tired to use a chair as a pillow! Right: The hassle was worth it to have the fam- ily together for a Christmas Day walk: Cousin Kristina, Dad Rich, baby Hannah wrapped in a sheepskin in the buggy, Aunt Wendy, and author Andrea and her husband, Jerry.

We had not seen our children since the and that the only one left on the schedule “Just think all the kids spending Christ­ anguished eight-hour wait in the airport dis­ day in August when my husband, Jerry, and was an evening flight, which meant another mas Eve in your airport. Their parents spend­ solved into ancient history as we gazed on I left Wisconsin to spend one year living in eight-hour wait in the Amsterdam airport. ing it here at Fornebu where everything is our new grandbaby, Hannah, for the first Hamar, Norway—a year that was to be the The explanation was simple: Christmas already closing down.” time. We were all back in Hamar in time for chance of a lifetime, a dream come true. is such an important holiday in Norway that “Yes, this is my number. Fax me in 30 Christmas Eve, thanks to several very spe­ When we learned that all three of our adult everyone who is going anywhere is already minutes and tell me what happened.” cial and caring KLM and SAS airline em­ children and their families could manage to there. Not enough people fly to Oslo on the She looked at us as she said, “This agent ployees who knew the importance of a Nor­ come to Norway to spend Christmas with us, afternoon of Christmas Eve to keep a regular is a Norwegian too. She knows how impor­ wegian family Christmas and a cooperative the dream turned into a fairy tale too good to flight schedule. But the explanation did noth­ tant Christmas Eve is to families. Go have SAS crew that held the plane. be true. Several of them had to work right up ing to help the exhausted adults, to say noth­ a cup of coffee. We’ll know in a half hour And the luggage? It got an extra two- through December 22, so the seven of them ing of the children who were beyond tired. or so.” hour taxi ride and was delivered by two smil­ were scheduled to fly on KLM out of Minne­ ing men to our front door just before mid­ apolis on the 23rd, which meant that by the Fornebu Airport, Oslo Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam night. When we expressed surprise that they time they landed, it would already be 11:00 Too excited to sleep, Jerry and I had left Our children sat stunned, close to tears, brought it on Christmas Eve, they said, “No a.m. on Christmas Eve. But even with the far earlier than necessary for the airport to absorbing the news. Suddenly the voice of problem. It’s not our holiday. We’re Muslims two-hour drive from Oslo airport to Hamar, meet the plane we thought the family was an angel came over the loudspeaker, “Nelson and glad to have the work.” And left with a we would still be home early afternoon in coming in on. When we learned that they family of seven, run to gate 42! Nelson fam­ cheerful “Glædelig Jul!” time for church services and a family Christ­ were delayed, we next went to customer ser­ ily of seven, run immediately to gate 42.” mas together. vices for KLM to see what flight they were They looked at each other. “How many They assembled at the Minneapolis air­ scheduled for. The KLM agent, Prester­ parties of seven Nelsons could there be?” Andrea Cowles Nelson is port, the seven Nelsons, which included our hus, was watching my face when she told They grabbed the baby, hand luggage, a graduate of Luther Col- daughter Wendy and granddaughter, eight- us they were scheduled on the night flight. each others’ hands, and, trusting like the shep­ lege. She spent her ca- year-old Kristina; our son Nils and new wife She saw how disappointed, how sick we herds had, they ran. SAS was holding the reer as a German teacher Anneke; and our son Rich with his wife felt. I choked out something about them be­ flight for them. Only after they were buckled but has always been in Leanne and their brand new baby, Hannah, ing our whole family, coming for Christmas in and taking off were they told that they were love with all things Nor- born November 30, our newest granddaugh­ Eve—two kids, one of those our brand new headed not to Oslo, but to Copenhagen. But wegian, which is part of ter whom we would be seeing for the first grandchild… and Ms. Presterhus went into then were also scheduled on the next flight out her heritage. She and her time ever. action. She started scanning her screen for of Copenhagen to Oslo. Then the tears came. husband, Jerry, now live It was in Minneapolis that they heard possibilities. Suddenly she was on the phone Tears of wonder. Tears of relief. in Mound, Minnesota. They have traveled to about the bad weather in Boston, where to KLM in Amsterdam. She said, “SAS has Norway many times but credit the year they their plane was touching down before head­ a flight going to Copenhagen soon.” She They landed late afternoon in Oslo, a had the privilege of living there with being ing overseas. The two-hour wait there was explained the situation briefly, quickly, and bedraggled, exhausted, happy bunch. Our one of the highlights of their 53 years together. only the first of many. The next five-hour asked, “Can you get seven more people on delay was spent two in the air circling Bos­ that flight, and then schedule them on the ton, waiting to land, and three on the ground connecting SAS flight to Oslo?” Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church waiting to leave again. Seven hours behind We were only hearing one side of the schedule meant, of course, that they had conversation, but the questions became ob­ Den Norske Lutherske Minnekirke already missed the connecting flight that vious as we heard the answers: The Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church offers the best venue in Chicago for Norwegians should have taken them from Amsterdam to “We don’t know where they are. Some­ and Scandinavians to gather and celebrate Norwegian traditions. Along with Pastor David Schoenknecht, we welcome you to our warm and friendly family of members. Oslo. where in the Amsterdam airport.” Please visit us soon! For that, they were prepared, but they “Couldn’t you page them, party of sev­ were not prepared for the shock of learning, en, named Nelson?” once in Amsterdam, that all regular flights “No, we don’t care about the luggage. Christmas 2015/January 2016 between Amsterdam and Oslo were canceled We’ll handle that later.” Dec. 27 11 a.m. service / Holy Communion Song Fest during Coffee Hour Children’s Juletrefest & Music Workshop, 2-6 p.m. Jan. 3 11 a.m. service AIR – SEA – LAND SPECIALISTS Jan. 10 11 a.m. service / Holy Communion God Jul og Godt Nyttår from Gerd, Maria and Britta Jan. 17 11 a.m. service Contact us for all your travel needs, worldwide and domestic Jan. 24 11 a.m. service / Holy Communion Jan. 31 11 a.m. service 483 80th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11209 • Tel: (718) 748-7400 Fax: (718) 238-3604 • [email protected] • [email protected] 2614 North Kedzie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647 • (773) 252-7335 • www.minnekirken-chicago.org 20 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly Taste of Norway Aquavit Week 2015: Two cities celebrate this Nordic spirit

Molly Jones Norwegian American Weekly

Shouts of “skål” could be heard through­ out the cities of Portland and Seattle during Aquavit Week, a week-long celebration of the Scandinavian spirit lasting from Dec. 6 to 12. Portland bartender, writer, and beverage consultant Jacob Grier founded the event in 2012 as a way to introduce more people to aquavit. This year’s festivities marked the fourth annual Aquavit Week and the first year it has made its way to Seattle, with the help of Lexi of Old Ballard Liquor Co. “I’ve been intrigued by aquavit since I started tending bar in Portland, and as a few small American distilleries started produc­ ing it I saw it as an up-and-coming, under­ Photos: (above) Gloria Chenoweth / Nordic Heritage Museum, appreciated spirit that more people should (right) Lexi / Old Ballard Liquor Co. be drinking. The first event brought all the Above: Sune Sandling takes a turn bartending at Seattle’s opening of aquavit I could find in Oregon into one bar, the Skål! exhibit at the Nordic Heritage Museum. with each one featured in a different cocktail Right: The Negroouni, a Teachers Lounge creation made with Heldig’s to highlight its flavor,” said Grier. Own Aquavit, Gran Classico, Punt e Mes, and Peychaud’s Bitters. As the variety of aquavit available in the U.S. has grown, so has the celebration; Meanwhile, Seattle’s celebration began from an event at a single bar in 2012, Aqua­ with an evening at the Teachers Lounge, a vit Week has expanded to boast a long list of bar owned by “Seattle’s original aquavit ex­ participating bars, restaurants, and more. perts” Perryn and Desiree Wright, the distill­ This year, Portland kicked off Aquavit ers of Heldig’s Own aquavit. They previous­ Week with an opening party at the Swedish ly owned the Copper Gate, a Scandinavian restaurant Broder Nord. The event featured Aquavit bar, and are credited with introduc­ Spirits,” curated by the Museum of Danish Room, The Rookery Bar at Raven and Rose, more than 10 varieties of aquavit and special ing an entire generation of Seattleites to the America. The opening party included an in­ and The Hop and Vine, among many others. guest Christer Olsen from Arcus, distributor spirit. The Teachers Lounge served three troductory toast led by Tova Brandt, Albert In addition to cocktails, Seattle embraced for Linie and Aalborg. varieties of aquavit—Old Ballard Liquor Ravenholt Curator of Danish-American Cul­ aquavit’s contribution to the culinary scene, “For the first few years most of our Co. Taffel #3, Lysholm Linie, and Heldig’s ture, who also shared a song of unknown au­ serving aquavit ice cream at Full Tilt, cara­ involvement came from the cocktail com­ Own Housemade—along with correspond­ thor from the Spiritmuseum in Stockholm, to way smoked and aquavit braised short rib at munity, but this year we are excited to team ing cocktails and a few Scandinavian snacks. the tune of “Popeye the sailor man”: Bravehorse Tavern, and yellowtail cured in up with Broder and Nordia House to reach In Seattle, the week coincided perfectly You can have another yet. Old Ballard aquavit lees at the Carlile Room. out to the local Scandinavian community as with the Nordic Heritage Museum’s Dec. 10 They’re nicer the more you get! What makes aquavit such a great in­ well,” said Grier of the partnership. opening of the exhibit, “Skål! Scandinavian But if you have twenty, gredient for cocktails? “It’s a very versatile you’ll wake with plenty spirit, and it’s one that gives distillers a broad of headache and much regret. palette of flavors to work with by emphasiz­ Norwegian Blonde Museum visitors enjoyed a buffet table, ing different botanicals. There are aquavits oyster shooters, aquavit cocktails, and a pre­ putting the focus on caraway, dill, cumin, cit­ sentation by Olsen of Arcus about Linie and rus, anise, Christmas spices, etc. Plus some Aalborg aquavits—including a tasting. are unaged, others spend time on wood. So Many other locations took a part in there’s a lot to choose from when creating a Cocktail recipe courtesy of Aquavit Week by featuring aquavit in cock­ cocktail,” answered Grier. Old Ballard Liquor Co. tails (and even through food!) throughout Through these innovative cocktails, the entire week. In Portland, one could sip Aquavit Week is able to highlight the tradi­ Deceptively simple to on an aquavit cocktail at Bit House Saloon, tional Scandinavian spirit and share its influ­ make—with a stylish herb- Multnomah Whiskey Library and the Green ence on modern drinking culture. Skål! al twist.

• 2 oz. Riktig Aquavit • Juice of 1/2 lemon + simple syrup to taste— to equal 4 oz • 4 large sprigs of fresh dill, chopped roughly

Shake it over ice. Shake it hard, like you mean it. Shake it like a Viking! Pour into a chilled martini glass and enjoy Photo courtesy of Old Ballard Liquor Co. lakeside on a sunny after­ Being lake-adjacent is not required to make this cocktail, only noon. highly recommended.

Variations Nordic Muse: Sub the dill for 2 oz tarragon and 2 oz rosemary. Norwegian Bikini: Sub the dill for fresh mint. Norwegian on Vacation: Sub the dill for fresh sweet basil. Photo: Gloria Chenoweth / Nordic Heritage Museum Nordic Provincial: Sub the dill for fresh sage. Tova Brandt, Skål! exhibit curator, chats with visitors about an interactive activity identifying com- mon aquavit ingredients by their smell. norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 21 taste of Norway Krumkaker: the 1000-year-old cookie A family recipe going back generations continues to light up the Christmas season

Sunny Gandara Arctic Grub

December is without doubt my favorite month of the year. Not only is it my birth month, but the festive spirits that go along with both birthdays and Christmas make this a more carefree time where we can allow ourselves a little extra. It is also the month when I become the most homesick for Nor­ way, as I believe nobody in the world knows how to celebrate Christmas and keep old tra­ ditions intact like Norwegians. This is when we fully embrace spending time with our loved ones, showing why they are special to us not only through presents, but through wonderful food, drink, and fun days and eve­ nings where we all do something a little out of the ordinary and forget about everyday worries and routines. In this article I wanted to include a recipe for one of the most classic cookies in the Norwegian repertoire: krumkaker. These cone-shaped, thin, slightly sweet, buttery, and crispy cookies are not only beautiful to look at but also delicious and light (depend­ ing on what you fill them with, perhaps not Photos: (above) Daytona Strong, Sunny Gandara has over (right) Sunny Gandara the latter!), and an important part of Nor­ 15 years experience in Above: Beautiful, delicate, and delicious, the pat- marketing and PR, both way’s baking history. terns on krumkaker may change, but the recipe is in the music and bever- I have done some research on the his­ one of Norway’s oldest. age industry. In 2008 she tory of Norwegian cookies. Many of the tra­ Right: Making krumkaker means being part of a founded her own com- ditional Norwegian Christmas cookies may family tradition that goes back an untold number pany, Fork and Glass, a have had their origins from other countries, of generations. food and wine event and and they didn’t start out as cookies specifi­ consulting company, located in the Hudson cally for this holiday season. It was first in families have had them in their family for Valley of New York. She now focuses on edu- the 19th century that the term “Christmas generations) or more modern in style. cation, giving seminars and classes to pri- cookies” was formed, which happened to be A small tablespoon or less of batter is vate and corporate groups. Sunny, a native the same time ovens became something of a dropped in the middle of the iron, then baked of Norway, is a professionally trained cook common household appliance. Cookies were rapidly as they are super thin, lifted off the and holds a diploma in Wines & Spirits from divided into three categories: those that were iron and rolled around a special krumkake the WSET. baked in an iron, those that were deep fried pin right away while warm, soft, and pliable in lard, and those that contained yeast or bak­ to shape them into pretty cones. ing powder and were baked in the oven. Of My mother has been bragging her whole Krumkaker these, cookies that were baked in irons have life about how her krumkake recipe is the the longest tradition in Norway. They can be best, so I naturally wanted to share it as it is 1 cup butter, melted 1 cup all purpose flour traced back at least for a thousand years, and the one I grew up eating. She inherited this 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup water most of them had a round shape. recipe from her grandmother, who in turn 1 cup potato starch 2 tsps. ground cardamom Krumkaker, as well as goro (another old inherited it from her grandmother. I am not classic cookie in Norway) are variations of sure how old it is—old enough to be a truly Whisk the sugar into the butter and fold in the remaining ingredients. Let sit for about 30 waffles, and are known for their very ornate special recipe that I am happy to be in pos­ minutes before baking according to your krumkake iron’s instructions. and pretty patterns due to the special irons session of! I have made one alteration to the Typically your iron comes with a cone-shaped stick to roll the flat cakes around—it’s they are baked in. Each iron can have a dif­ recipe to make it plant-based—I eliminated important to do this right after you lift the cookies off the iron, before they cool and stiffen. ferent pattern based on where in Norway you the two eggs originally in it—but you can al­ Fill the krumkaker with your favorite filling—whipped cream, cloudberry jam (yes, I are and what traditions each family has, and ways include them and whisk them in with know that can be hard to find in the U.S. and elsewhere in the world), or a chocolate whipped they can be old fashioned (many Norwegian the butter and sugar. cream with fresh berries. So delicious!

From Tradition to Protest: God Jul Lila Nelson’s Weaving Life og Dec. 5, 2015 to Nov. 13, 2016 Godt nytt år A retrospective exhibition showing Lila Nelson’s mastery from of traditional Norwegian weaving techniques, and INGEBRETSEN’S how she used them in fresh, new ways.

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SPRINGTIME IN NORWAY NORWEGIAN ADVENTURE God Celebrating May 17th and Small Group Tour Sarpsborg’s 1000th birthday July 10 - 20 May 14 - 23 Jul BALTIC CRUISE from Brekke Tours & Travel TASTE OF SWEDEN & NORWAY Cruise A: July 12 - 22 Small Group Tour Cruise B: August 8 - 18 Tour A: June 2 - 11 (additional departures available) Tour B: July 3 - 12 CAPTIVATING SCANDINAVIA SPECTACULAR NORWAY July 13 - 26 Tour A: June 20 - 29 Tour B: July 7 - 16 SOGN / VOSS / VALDRES HERITAGE TOUR SPLENDOR OF NORWAY July 23 - August 4 June 23 - July 1 NORWAY’S FABULOUS FJORDS NORWAY: SCENIC & HISTORIC Small Group Tour July 24 - August 6 June 25 - July 7 NORWEGIAN COASTAL VOYAGE BEST OF NORWAY Daily departures from Bergen or Tour A: June 28 - July 8 Kirkenes Tour B: July 16 - 26 NEW in 2016: FJORDS OF NORWAY NORWAY’S FAMILY ADVENTURE Sail roundtrip from Bergen on a July 6 - 15 new 12-day itinerary featuring more fjords, more activities Brekke Tours & Travel and more time in your favorite coastal cities! Choose from 11 1-800-437-5302 departures in 2016. [email protected] www.BrekkeTours.com norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 23 norwegian heritage Norwegian American Weekly Norwegian Language Corner Photos of the Week NORWEGIAN FOLK TALES, FAIRY TALES and TROLLS

Volume 2 With 21 classic folk tales, fairy tales and trolls from Norway in Norwegian and English, “Tuss og Troll” is now serialized in the Norwegian American Weekly’s Norwegian Language Corner. The stories are from the collections of Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe, and retold by Øyvind Dybvad, Gard Espeland, Velle Espeland, Johannes Farestveit, and Nana Rise-Lynum. Translated by Alexander Knud Huntrods and Odd-Steinar Dybvad Raneng. “Tuss og Troll” was edited, designed and published by Deb Nelson Gourley of Astri My Astri publishing. Copyright © Norsk Barneblad.

Thank you for the article celebrating Leikarringen’s 90th anniversary. I am happy that the group has grown and is still active. Whenever there is a Norsk celebration dinner dance in the Chicago area, there are always some members of the Kernav som står og mel på The mill that is still grinding on group out on the floor dancing. havsens botn the bottom of the sea I danced with Leikarringen when I was del 5 part 5 a child in the 1950s. I enjoyed the dancing except for the hambo—I just couldn’t get Alle dei som siglde framom der, Everyone who sailed past now want- the lift! My sons, Kristian and Erik, danced skulle no innom og helsa på den rike ed to drop in and meet this rich man in with Leikarringen Junior. Kristian’s two mannen i gullgarden. Og alle ville dei sjå his golden house. And everyone wanted daughters now dance with the Fjell og på den snodige kverna, for den gjekk det to see this clever mill, because the story Fjord children’s group in the Twin Cities. ord om både vidt og breitt, og det var in- had now spread both far and wide, and The black and white photo is of me gen utan han hadde høyrt tale om den. there was no one who had not heard wearing the Hardanger drakt right before Langt om lenge kom det ein skip- about it. or after the 17de Mai parade. The top two pictures on the right are of my sons. The per som ville sjå kverna. Han spurte om After a while, a skipper came along two girls in the bottom photo are Julia ho kunne mala salt. Jau, ho kunne mala who wanted to see the mill. He asked if and Linnea Ronning, Kristian’s daughters. salt, sa han som åtte henne. Då skipperen it could grind salt. Aye, it could grind out Kristian’s son, Tor, has shown some interest, høyrde det, ville han med naud og makt ha salt, said the one who owned it. When so perhaps next year he will also be dancing! kverna, det fekk kosta kva det kosta ville. the skipper heard this, he had to have Hadde han den, tenkte han, så slapp the mill, no matter what it cost—be it by Submitted by Eileen Olsen Ronning, han å sigla langt bort over sjø og bårer hook or by crook. Hastings, Minn. etter saltladningar. I fyrstninga ville ikkje If he had it, he was thinking, he mannen vera av med henne, men skip- would not need to sail far away across 15.NAW.Vangsgutane.CMYK.27Oct2015.qxp_LayoutWant to be featured in 1 our 10/27/15 Photo 7:52 PMof Pagethe Week?1 peren både tagg og bad, og til sist selde the ocean in rough seas after salt. In the Email [email protected] or mail your photo with photo credit and caption. han kverna og fekk mange, mange tusen beginning the man did not want to sell dalar for henne. it, but the skipper pleaded and begged, Då skipperen hadde fått kverna på until he finally sold the mill and received The Boys From Vangen: ryggen, stogga han ikkje lenge der, for thousands and thousands of dollars for it. han var redd at mannen kunne koma til When the skipper lifted the mill onto å angre på handelen. Å spørja korleis han his back, he did not stay long, as he was kunne stilla henne, hadde han slett ikkje frightened the man would regret the sale • Bilingual English & Norwegian text tid til. Han sette ned til skuta det fortaste and change his mind. To ask how to oper- • For all ages on both sides of the Atlantic • Full colored & illustrated, Smyth sewn han kunne. ate the mill, he just did not have time for. • 6″x 9″, hardcover, 176 pages Då han kom eit stykke ut på sjøen, He set off towards his ship as fast as his • = $14.95 with FREE shipping in USA fekk han kverna opp. — Mal salt, og det legs would carry him. Vangsgutane has been a classic series in Nor- både fort og vel! sa skipperen. Ja, kverna When he had sailed some distance way since 1941. Right after WWII, Vangsgutane til å mala salt, og det så det spruta. Då out at sea, he brought the mill up on was used as curriculum material in Norwegian schools, as the series had easy-to-read text with skipperen hadde fått skipet fullt, ville han deck. “Make salt and do it both quickly pictures. Honest and quick-thinking, the boys stogga kverna, men det var ikkje så lett. and correctly!” said the skipper. Well, the become role models for Norwegian children Korleis han bar seg åt, og korleis han mill made salt so that it gushed and spat- through their numerous ventures and narrow escapes. Previously serialized in the Norwegian stelte på henne, så mol kverna like radt. tered everywhere. When the skipper had American Weekly. Made in America! Salthaugen voks høgare og høgare, og til filled his ship, he wanted to stop the mill, Call, send a check or visit website sist gjekk skuta til botnar. Der står kverna but that was not so easy! Astri My Astri Publishing www.astrimyastri.com på havsens botn og mel den dag i dag, og No matter what he did, or how he Deb Nelson Gourley Phone: 563-568-6229 difor er det at sjøen er salt. did it, the mill just kept on going and go- 602 3rd Ave SW, Waukon, IA 52172 [email protected] ing. A mountain of salt grew and grew, until finally the ship sank. And there the mill stands until this very day, on the bot- tom of the sea, grinding out salt—which Subscribe to NAW! is why the sea is so salty. one year: $ Miss the beginning? Subscribe to 70 NAW and never miss out again

$29.95 each volume or $39.95 for 2-volume set (SAVE $20) with FREE shipping in the U.S.A. Call (206) 784-4617 or email [email protected] www.astrimyastri.com 24 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly business Schibsted’s breeding ground for unicorns A new lab will identify and aid Norwegian companies with the potential for big growth

Rasmus Falck mation, recruiting world-class competence, Oslo, Norway and building up a new global technology and product organization. They want to shape the Schibsted Media Group has restructured media of tomorrow! with new and stronger global functions that “Unicorn” is a new term in Norway. will enable better products to the customer. The expression comes from the investment Schibsted is an international media group industry, and in particular the venture capital with 6,800 employees in 30 countries. It industry, which calls a startup whose valua­ all started in 1839 when Christian Michael tion has exceeded USD 1 billion a unicorn. Schibsted founded a publishing company, One such example is Facebook. and in 1860 he started publishing a newspa­ In Norway growth is a challenge. While per that from 1885 has been known as Af­ on average 15-25 percent of U.S. startups tenposten. achieve sustainable growth, the rate of Nor­ The exiting news is that they have ini­ wegian companies to do so is estimated at tiated a “Unicorn Lab” for startups with 2-10 percent. A study by Next Step throws Pelp.no, Snapsale, Eiendomsmeglerguiden. some new light on this. Next Step is a global no, and more. The lab will identify, fund, consultancy based in Silicon Valley with a build, and roll out unicorn caliber growth branch in Oslo. They have facilitated com­ ventures. Frode Eilertsen will head the lab. mercial growth of hundreds of American, Photo: Emre Ayaroglu / Flickr He has many years’ experience in the U.S. Norwegian, and European companies. From Not quite as rare as the mythical beasts they’re named after, “unicorn” companies are those with valu- with successful venture capital and startup 2010 to 2013 they studied the investment, ation of one billion dollars or more. labs, bringing unique competence, network, revenue, and profitability performance of 20 and experience. He has done an exceptional Norwegian companies compared to similar There are distinct differences in focus Hopefully Norwegian companies will job in helping set the new strategic direction U.S.-based companies. Here are some of and time spent seeking investment, product learn to apply some of this for more robust for Schibsted, driving their digital transfor­ their conclusions: development, and market feedback. The Nor­ growth. After oil we will need unicorns to wegian entrepreneur tends to put much more sustain the economy. time into raising capital and product develop­ Exchange Rates Oslo Børs: Week at a Glance Rasmus Falck is a strong ment. This results in Norwegian companies’ (Dec. 14, 2015) innovation and entrepre- Winners Losers average time to market of three to eight years neurship advocate. The au- Norsk Kr. 8.6551 Name NOK Change Name NOK Change versus one to three years in the U.S. thor of “What do the best Farstad Shipping 14.85 7.22% SeaBird Exploration 15.30 -23.88% Dansk Kr. 6.7750 U.S. companies accelerate time to mar­ do better” and “The board Bionor Pharma 1.67 6.37% Polarcus 1.31 -19.63% ket and revenue generation through gaining Svensk Kr. 8.4862 Havyard Group 5.60 4.67% InterOil 2.00 -19.03% of directors as a resource feedback, validation, and customer commit­ Islandsk Kr. 128.42 Hexagon Composites 19.00 4.40% Archer 4.32 -14.17% in SME,” he received his ments for the solution during the development Canadian $ 1.3743 Apptix 1.46 4.29% RAK Petroleum 5.81 -13.02% masters degree from the process. In today’s rapidly changing environ­ Euro 0.9080 For detailed information about the Oslo Børs, visit www.dn.no. University of Wisconsin-Madison. He currently ment, this has a significant impact on success. lives in Oslo, Norway.

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Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota • Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836 • 28507NAC N10-15 norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 25 obituaries & 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] Corwyn Klein Marilyn Astrid Ornes November 10, 1943 – June 14, 1945 – The music of Christmas December 4, 2015 December 3, 2015 Two weeks before Thanksgiving I I had followed those events closely with happened to tune into one of my favorite a growing sense of fear for the future of Corwyn Klein age 72 of Iowa Falls died Marilyn Astrid Ornes (Smith), wonder­ “oldies” radio stations. I was surprised to our world. I could not imagine the perva­ on Friday, December 4, 2015, at the Hansen ful wife, mom, and grandma, passed away hear them already playing Christmas mu­ sive extent of the hatred that has driven so Family Hospital in Iowa Falls. December 3, 2015. sic. My initial reaction was a negative one. many into acts of terrorism. Corwyn Dean Klein was born on No­ Born June 14, 1945, in Ketchikan, Alas­ I have always believed our culture starts The story of Christmas, so powerfully vember 10, 1943, in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the ka, Marilyn’s family moved to Petersburg, promoting Christmas way too early. I re­ told in the music of Christmas, reminded son of Herman and Florence (Schager) Alaska, when she was a young child. Mari­ sisted the urge to change the station and me that evil never has the last word. As I Klein. He graduated from Alden Commu­ lyn graduated from Petersburg High School after hearing a few of my favorite Christ­ have listened to the great good news that nity High School and Ellsworth Community in 1963 and moved to Tacoma, Washington, mas carols, I was hooked. I have been salvation has been created by God and that College. Corwyn married Marlys Kennedy to attend University of Puget Sound. She met listening to the beautiful sounds of Christ­ the “Prince of Peace” has come into the and from this marriage they had three chil­ her husband, Kristen Ornes from Vikedal, mas ever since. world, my spirits have been lifted out of dren, Matthew, Kimberly and Michael. He Norway, in Seattle, Wash., and they married For some reason the Christmas story despair and fear. The events portrayed so was employed by Heinzroth Brothers before September 30, 1967. They had three children and the beautiful music it has inspired dramatically on the evening news do not joining the family farming operation. He and settled in Bothell, Washington. down through the ages has had a powerful seem to overwhelm me and I am able to also worked for Martin Marietta at the Ames In 1988 Marilyn began working for Ob­ effect upon me this year. As I wondered focus more on the good that exists around quarry before joining an elite team of super jective Medical Assessments Corporation about this, I discovered that the course of me. May the message of joy and hope that truckers as an owner-operator. After retiring and retired from there in 2010. Marilyn’s fo­ world events had begun to overwhelm me. came into the world through the birth of Corwyn drove school bus for Iowa Falls/ cus in life was her family. She was involved The day I first heard the Christmas carols the Christ child do the same for every one Alden school district, handling the most in all the school, sports, dance, church, and was just after the horrific events in Paris. of you this Christmas. precious cargo and by far his favorite. He music activities her children participated in. will be remembered for his big heart, love Family vacations were spent camping and of Iowa State, John Deere tractors, driving enjoying nature as well as traveling to Alaska school bus, and his Norwegian heritage. and Norway to visit relatives. Marilyn loved Community Connections Corwyn is survived by his son, Matthew to sing and was part of the Norwegian Ladies (Mindy) of Iowa Falls; a loving and caring Chorus for several years. In recent years she Gratulerer med Dagen! companion, Carol Polzin of Iowa Falls; a enjoyed spending as much time as possible brother, Stephen C. Klein of Alden; a sis­ with her grandchildren. ter, Colleen (Tom) Good of Pilot Mound; 12 Marilyn is survived by her husband, Happy birthday / grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Kristen Ornes; her brother, Ted (Lynn) He was preceded in death by his parents; Smith; her three children, Anne-Marie a son, Michael; and a daughter, Kimberly. (Theo) Diouf, Torgny Ornes and Jon (Erin) engagement / etc! Ornes; and her grandchildren, Amelia Diouf, Nils Ornes, and Hunter DeLeon. Your name and 21. desember message here! Terry Hanson Madison WI Ella Martens Mora MN Else Svindland Absecon NJ For more information, call 22. desember us at (206) 784-4617 or email Mary Hansen Seattle WA [email protected]. Helen Anne Nelson Clara City MN Odd Oimoen Sunnyvale CA 18. desember Agnes Ekset Esten Richmond VA 23. desember Anita Friman Oakland CA Shirley Evenstad Minneapolis MN Business and individual Stella Garness Garwood TX Erik Peder Gildnes Bow WA Lars Gjedsdal Mitchell SD Lisa Knudsen-Ganung Berkeley CA tax returns; audits; forensic Alfred Hauge Sioux City IA Hans Kveum Roseau MN accounting; financial Gudrun Olson Bellingham WA Thora Nybroten Kensett IA statement preparation; Corrine Orvick Elmore MN Tommes Anders Saatvedt Orvin Sletten Salem OR Columbia City OR Certified Public Accountants litigation support. Arne Syvertsen Staten Island NY Martha Viken Sioux City IA 221 First Avenue West Suite 400 Lower Queen Anne location, easy parking. 19. desember 24. desember Seattle, Washington 98119 Rasmus Erdal Fort Collins CO Marian Bergan Minot ND Olav Henriksen Tønsberg Norway Jacob deVrier Union Grove WI Phone: 206.292.1747 • Online: loecpa.com • Email: [email protected] Greta Louise Venos Alice Egland Succasunna NJ New Westminster BC Canada Gloria E. Granstedt New York NY Wesley Johnson Pittsgrove NJ 20. desember John Kildahl Mount Vernon NY MULLAVEY, PROUT, GRENLEY & FOE Dave Bordson St. Paul MN Charles Knutson Denver CO Tore Haugeto Maidens VA Lars Olaussen Mound MN Chris Rowland Vancouver WA John Vassel Orchards WA A ttORNEYS and counselors at law Carl Sather Oakland CA Ole W. Selbach Libby MT Advice regarding maritime and civil claims, disputes, Want to see your birthday in the Norwegian American Weekly? Email [email protected] or call (206) 784-4617. Must be submitted one month in advance. commercial transactions and estate planning. NB: Has someone on our birthday list passed away? Please notify us! 2501 NW 65th St, P.O. Box 70567 Seattle, WA 98107 facebook.com/ Telephone: (206) 789-2511 Fax: (206) 789-4484 Be our friend on Facebook! naweekly 26 • December 18, 2015 norwegian american weekly in your neighborhood What’s going on in your neighborhood? Calendar of Events craalifo ni louisiana salmon, and hear a variety of noteworthy speak- te xas Sjømannskirken Christmas Eve Services New Orleans Sjømannskirken Christmas Eve ers. This meeting will be held at Golden Valley Golf Houston Sjømannskirken Christmas Eve Dec. 24, 2:00 & 4:00 p.m. Dec. 24, 4:00 p.m. and Country Club. Wear your Norwegian sweater! Dec. 24 San Francisco, Calif. New Orleans, La. Houston, Texas There will be two church services on Christ- The New Orleans Sjømannskirken welcomes you new york The Houston Sjømannskirken will hold Christ- mas Eve. Astrid Jensen will perform with her to a Christmas Eve service at 4:00 p.m. Enjoy a Family Photographs by Bjørn Sterri mas services at 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. A celebra- brother Kristian during the service. Christmas delicious Christmas dinner afterwards. now—Jan. 9 tion and dinner will follow at 5:00 p.m. Please dinner is available after the service for single New York, N.Y. register with [email protected]. residents, students, or travelers. Maie n For 15 years Norwegian photgrapher Bjørn Sterri Maine Nordmenn Meeting has photographed his family, creating a portrayal v airgini Annual Family Christmas Party Jan. 7, 6:30 p.m. that is at once exacting, intimate, fictionalized, Genealogy Interest Group Dec. 27, 2:00—4:00 p.m. Falmouth, Maine vulnerable, realistic, and proud. Comprising- ex Jan. 17, 2:00 p.m. Sacramento, Calif. Bates College geology student Jordan Cargill will quisitely toned gelatin silver prints from 8x10- Fairfax, Va. Organized folk dancing and instruction! Bring present a program on his 5-1/2 month stay in inch negatives, the photographs render the The Genealogy Interest Group is composed children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and Longyearbyen and the surrounding area of Sval- endless possibilities of tone, depth, and clarity of Washington, D.C., Sons of Norway Lodge any other children. Reservations required for bard. The meeting will be held at the American possible only with this combination of film and members and others who are interested in your child to receive a gift from Santa; contact Legion Hall. For more info call President Anne- paper. At Rick Wester Fine Art. researching their Norwegian ancestors. Many Carol Lee Solheim at (530) 677-2006 or sol- Lise Moson at (207) 807-6024. members are also working towards their Cul- [email protected]. Each family should bring a New York Sjømannskirken Christmas Eve tural Skills pins in genealogy. All are welcome plate of Christmas goodies. The lodge will pro- Massachusetts Dec. 24 at our meetings, beginners and experts alike. New York, N.Y. vide punch and coffee. At the Fireside Room, Salon Series Chamber Concert: In Scandinavia For more information, contact genealogy@ Christmas Eve begins with a church service at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Jan. 14, 7:00 p.m. norwaydc.org. At Norway House. 4:00 p.m. A large buffet with traditional Norwe- West Newton, Mass. gian Christmas food is served at 6:00 p.m. Stu- fl orida Hear some of Boston’s best virtuosos on an inti- Washington dents, residents, and tourists are welcome! At Miami Sjømannskirken Christmas Eve mate scale, and join them in a lively roundtable Normanna New Years Eve Party 8:00 p.m. the doors are opened for all to enjoy Dec. 24, 1:00 p.m. discussion, presented by Pro Arte Chamber Or- Dec. 31, 7:00 p.m. coffee and Christmas cookies, sing carols, and Miami, Fla. chestra of Boston. Cost is $30 per adult, $27 per Everett, Wash. maybe even see julenissen. Price for Christmas The Miami Sjømannskirken will hold a Norwe- senior, and $10 for students or those under 25. Normanna Lodge will host a New Years Eve dinner is $50 per adult, $15 per child four to 12, gian Christmas Eve service, followed by coffee Purchase tickets at proarte.secure.force.com/ celebration, complete with music by the Pick- and free for children three and under. and singing around the Christmas Tree. ticket/#sections_a0FG000000zc3dHMAQ. At led Herring Band, light buffet, hors d’oeuvres, Scandinavian Cultural Center. and complimentary Champagne at midnight. Emerging Visions: Kari Rindahl Endresen i llinois Tickets cost $30. Make your reservations ear- Dec. 29—Jan. 4 Christmas Around the World 1 ly; call the Viking Lounge at (425) 252-0291. mo innes ta New York, N.Y. now—Jan. 3 A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol Chelsea’s Agora Gallery will feature Norwegian Chicago, Ill. Breidablik Lodge Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner now—Jan. 3 painter Kari Rindahl Endresen. She captures the Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry’s Jan. 10, 11:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m. Minneapolis, Minn. harshness and beauty of the northern regions of 74th annual Christmas Around the World and Kelso, Wash A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol is a hilarious the Arctic Circle in large, expressive watercolors: Holidays of Light exhibit displays 51 trees rep- Breidablik Lodge will hold their annual family- spoof of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Set the oddly bright nights lit by a midnight sun, the resenting 51 countries, including a Norwegian style dinner serving lutefisk, meatballs and in a bar in a small town in northern Minnesota, jagged peaks of mountains that appear dusted Christmas tree. Each is decorated according the gravy, boiled potatoes, green beans, home- bar owner Gunner Johnson is visited by three with confectioner’s sugar, the sparkling lights of country’s culture, with a description of Christ- made coleslaw, lefse, rye bread, and cookies ghosts. With 17 original songs including, “I Love the aurora borealis, and the crisp, clean air that mas customs and how to say “Merry Christ- for dessert. There will be seatings at 11:00, You More Than Football,” “The Wheel is Turnin’ at once stings and rejuvenates. Opening recep- mas” in their language. Hours are 9:30 a.m. 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 1:00, 2:30, 3:00, 3:30, But the Hamster is Dead,” and “Grandma Cut the tion will take place Jan. 7, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. Entry fees are $18 per adult, $11 per Christmas Cheese.” At New Century Theatre. Call and 4:00. Purchase tickets by contacting Larry child three to 11, and $17 for seniors over 65. (612) 455-9501 or visit www.DontHugMe.com n orth carolina at (360) 575-1385 or [email protected]. for more info. Use Code: HUG for $5 OFF. $23 for adults and $8 for children 12 and un- Creating Your Family Tree Norwegian Sweater Day der. Pickled herring is available for $6.50 a jar. Jan. 16, 4:00—6:00 p.m. Jan. 2, 1:30 p.m. Gingerbread Wonderland Indian Trail, N.C. Montgomery, Ill. now—Jan. 15 Wisi cons n Join Norsk Carolina Sons of Norway for their Jan- Join Polar Lodge for a potluck luncheon and Minneapolis, Minn. Fosselyngen Lodge Torsk Supper uary meeting. Wear your Norwegian sweater for Creating Your Family Tree (Unit 5 Genealogy, Inspired by Bergen’s annual Gingerbread City, Jan. 23, 4:00—7:00 p.m. a day of ice skating. At Extreme Ice. Part 1) program, presented by Brooke John- Norway House has invited friends and families to Milwaukee, Wis. son. At St. Olaf Lutheran Church. enjoy Minneapolis and St. Paul made out of gin- Join Fosselyngen Lodge at Norway House for gerbread. Local pastry chefs, gingerbread house ohio a buffet of boiled cod, Norwegian meatballs, iowa experts, and novices alike have helped to create Edvard Grieg Lodge Reading Circle boiled potatoes, vegetables, pickled beets, From Underwear to Everywhere: Norwegian this fantastic replica of the Twin Cities. - Ginger Jan. 9, 2:00—3:00 p.m. cranberry sauce, flatbread, dessert, and coffee. Sweaters bread Wonderland—Pepperkake Twin Cities will Cincinnati, Ohio Open seating is on a first come first serve basis. now—April 24, 2016 be on display in the Norway House Galleri. The Edvard Grieg Lodge is beginning their eighth Cost is $13 for adults and $5 for children ages Decorah, Iowa year of Reading Circle. This will be a free choice four to 11. Please call (414) 321-2637 to make From humble beginnings as a warm layer un- Lakselaget Meeting to read whatever Scandinavian book interests you. reservations. der a vest and jacket, Norwegian sweaters are Jan. 2, 11:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m. At Panera Bread, 405 E. Kemper Rd. For info and now worn all over the world, for almost every Golden Valley, Minn. to RSVP, contact Carol Luiso at (513) 683-3631 or occasion. Learn about the symbolism behind Lakselaget is for professional women and col- [email protected]. patterns and colors and consider the tech- lege students who are Norwegian, of Norwegian nology and artistry of this iconic garment. At descent, or interested in all things Norwegian. Send your event to [email protected] or call (206) 784-4617 Vesterheim. The organization meets to network, mentor, eat to be added to the Norwegian American Weekly! Check www.na-weekly.com/events for complete listings Event listingsSCANDINAVIAN are free, but space is limited. Please contact CHRISTMAS us at least one month prior to event. MUSIC

WOODEN SPOON SCANDINAVIAN SHOP Scandinavian Hour Christmas With host Doug Warne 1617 K Avenue, Plano, TX 75074 • (972) 424-6867 A Scandinavian Hour Christmas with lots of holiday music! For all your Christmas gifts Saturdays, Dec. 19 & 26 at regular time, 9 – 10 a.m. PST and foods. You may order Scandinavian Holiday online or call us to place Special present from Scandinavian clubs with holiday music an order. Thursday, Dec. 24, 12 – 2 p.m. PST Sounds of a Scandinavian Christmas Mention the Norwegian The 53rd annual special present from our family of friends! American Weekly ad and Friday, Dec. 25, 12 – 2 p.m PST shipping is free! THE SCANDINAVIAN HOUR [email protected] • www.woodenspoon.ws KKNW 1150 AM • www.1150kknw.com norwegian american weekly December 18, 2015 • 27 In your neighborhood A fine day for two very fine horses Fjord horses proved to be a major attraction at December’s D.C. Christmas Bazaar

Christine Foster Meloni Washington, D.C.

Fia and Bella, two beautiful fjord hors­ es, were a major attraction at the Washing­ ton, D.C., Sons of Norway lodge’s Christmas Festival this year. Fortunately, the weather was perfect on December 5 and the horses were able to spend the day in a lovely open space behind the lodge’s Norway House in Fairfax, Virginia. Most of the festival-goers had seen fjord horses only in books and did not know very much about them. They were, therefore, thrilled to see Karen Keith’s Fia and Bella and learn something about this native Nor­ wegian breed. The Norwegian Fjord Horse is one of the oldest and purest breeds in the world. It is thought that the original fjord horse mi­ grated to Norway more than 4,000 years ago. Archaeologists have found evidence that this horse has been selectively bred for at least 2,000 years. It is not certain where the breed came from originally, but most likely it came from Asia as it seems to be related to the wild told the audience that while whites are rare, Przewalski horses. they are becoming more popular in the Unit­ The Vikings used this horse as their pri­ ed States and are, therefore, a major focus mary war mount. Farmers have long used of current selective breeding. She then intro­ it to pull loads as it is a strong and durable duced Bella, a 13-year-old brown dun horse. animal. Because of its thick coat, it can with­ Viewers easily noticed that, as Keith stand harsh winters. Today it is bred for rid­ pointed out, both horses were very pleasant ing and driving. Because of its pleasant per­ and gentle, but they had different personali­ sonality, it is frequently used for recreational ties. While Bella was as calm as calm could riding in schools for the disabled. During be, Fia was “very busy” and liked to move the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, many around. of the athletes and celebrities were driven Keith had each perform two tricks, bal­ to different venues in carts pulled by these ancing on a pedestal and bowing to the audi­ sturdy horses. ence. Today approximately 90% of all fjord It was surprising how both horses were horses are brown dun in color. The other able to mount the pedestal, very carefully, 10% are red dun, gray, white dun, or yellow first with their front legs and then their hind dun, which means that horses of these four legs, and stand perfectly balanced with their colors are very rare. These colors are rare feet so close together. because brown dun has been the fashion for Bowing, on the other hand, seemed to many years, and therefore it has been selec­ come quite naturally to them. tively bred to meet the popular demand. The audience seemed very impressed Photos: Christine Foster Meloni A unique characteristic of the fjord horse when Keith made it clear that she never Above left: Owner Karen Keith asks Fia to show off her trick, standing with all four feet on a small is its mane. The hair in the center is dark, forced her animals to perform. If they didn’t platform. She never makes her horses perform if they aren’t in the mood, but luckily Fia was. usually black, but the outer hair is white. want to, it was their decision. She consid­ Above right: Rosemaler Tina Keune created a special fjord horse ornament, available for purchase by The mane is cut short so that it will stand up ers her horses her pets, her friends, and she emailing [email protected]. straight. The white hair is cut shorter so that would never force a friend to do something Bottom: Bella greets visitors. Her dun coloring is by far the most common for fjord horses. the dark hair in the center will stand out. against his or her will, so why would she do The fjord horse is smaller than the av­ it to her horses? erage horse, usually between 13.2 and 14.2 Not surprisingly, these special horses hands high, and weighs between 900 and were the festival’s most coveted photo op. 1,200 pounds. It has very powerful legs and And much in demand was the lovely Christ­ God Jul og Godt Nyttår! good feet. Their feet are always black in mas tree ornament depicting a brown dun color. fjord horse created for the occasion by prize- From the Owner Keith presented two of her fjord winning rosemaler Tina Keune. To order horses at the festival. She first introduced an ornament, contact the artist at rkeune@ Fia, a seven-year-old white fjord horse. She earthlink.net. Subscribe to the Weekly one year: $ 70 We are Celebrating our 20th Anniversary The Norwegian Immigration Association, Inc. 317 East 52nd Street Photo: Karen Schulte New York, New York 10022 Call toll-free at (206) 784-4617, email [email protected], or mail a check to: [email protected] • www.niahistory.org Norwegian American Weekly, 7301 5th Ave NE, Ste A, Seattle, WA 98115. Preserving the living history of Norwegian immigrants in the New York area Professional Ship and Yacht Repair Since 1946 Two Marine Railways to 160 ft. x 600 tons Covered Lift Dock 140 ft. x 600 tons

God Jul Godt Nytt År Merry Christmas Happy New Year

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