3D

Third District Today December 2014 Merry Christmas Published by Ron Martinsen, 3D Pub. Rel. Dir. 3D SofN Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/TheThirdDistrictoftheSonsofNorway

The mission of Sons of Norway is to promote and to preserve the heritage and culture of Norway, to celebrate our relationship with other Nordic countries, and to provide quality insurance and financial products to its members. 1

Fra Presidenten, Mary B. Andersen Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. (Calvin Coolidge) I love the holiday season. I love the smells, the food, the music and the good cheer that generally abounds. Yes, there is a lot of work and hustle and bustle, but, over all, it is good. So is our beloved Sons of Norway, it is good. Yes, it is a lot of work but the rewards are many.

We had our first 3D Board meeting at Loyal Lodge in October and it was great! Many Board members were able to attend Loyal Lodge’s 90th Anniversary celebration; wow, 90 years! What a great celebration! I often wonder why some lodges make it and some don’t; why some lodges struggle so and others continue to stay afloat. Success leaves clues, let’s look at some of the clues left by Loyal Lodge:  Ability to reach multiple generations – Loyal has varied programs and activities for all generations and interests.  Fraternalism abounds – I will never forget my first District Convention. I was standing by myself at the entrance to a very crowded restaurant and there at a table, three hands starting waving at me and began to move over to make room at an already crowded table. I knew one person (Kris Rasmussen) and made two new friends (Torun Reduto and Karin Ryan-Reduto); I will never forget it. That is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Loyal Lodge. That is fraternalism in action. Reminds me of the Maya Angelou quote “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but, people will never forget how you made them feel.” Loyal made me feel great!  Many helping hands – many people were hustling and bustling about; too many to name and I am afraid I would leave someone out.  Fun – everyone had fun! There was a lot of laughter; a break from the everyday. The 3D Board meeting was followed shortly thereafter by the District President’s Council meeting in Minneapolis. District Presidents from across the Order met for two days to discuss issues and update each other on happenings in their respective Districts. There is a lot going on and much to be shared. You will hear more about the 3D Board meeting and the DPC meeting next year. For now, let’s just try to relax and enjoy the holiday season; enjoy each other’s company, laugh, eat great Norwegian delicacies and enjoy the moment. Let’s remember our Veterans and those who currently serve! God Jul og Godt nyttår, Mary Touch Hands 2 by William Henry Harrison Murray

Ah friends, dear friends, As years go on and heads get gray, How fast the guests do go! Touch hands, touch hands, With those that stay.

Strong hands to weak, Old hands to young, around the Christmas board touch hands.

The false forget, the foe forgive, For every guest will go And every fire burn low And cabin empty stand.

Forget, forgive, For who may say that Christmas day May ever come to host or guest again. Touch hands!

Charitable Trust - Kathy Dollymore - Counselor Dear Brothers and Sisters, Thank you to all who supported the Third District Charitable Trust Raffle, the raffle committee who worked tirelessly getting tickets sold and all the members and nonmembers who bought those tickets. The event was a great success and raised over $1000. This will help to allow us continuing to provide modest support to District 3 members with subsistence and services critical to their physical, social and psychological well-being. We are truly a Tremendous Third District with Tremendous members. The drawing was held at the 2014 October 3D Board meeting and drawn by Fraternal Director Linda Pederson, our guest from Minnesota. The 3rd prize winner is Ruth and Paul Kornbrekke from Nansen #3-410. 2nd prize winner is Shirley Vincent from Gulfstream #3-514 and 1st prize winner is Mike Tilder from North Carolina Vikings #3-675.The raffle was one of the highlights of the afternoon. Thank you again for your generous donations.

Mange Tusen Takk 3 Kathy Dollymore 3D Counselor

State of LOV Report - Roy Berntsen, LOV Chair We are progressing. The LOV Board was elected at the district board meeting in October and it is my pleasure to announce the LOV Board. I was elected as a permanent Chair (prior to this I was the temporary Chair), Pierre Laliberte (Hartford) as building and grounds, Nancy Thorsen (Hartford) the secretary, Bill Karpack (Nor-Bu) the marketing chair, and Debra Martin (Norsemenn) the treasurer. We are planning a weekend board meeting at LOV in December/January. We are willing and ready to get the job done. We did have a snag with changing the bank account signers but on October 10th I signed the paperwork and the past due bills were written and mailed on October 13th. The rumor I heard around town was that LOV had a reputation of not paying their bills on time or at all. We need to change that opinion of LOV. We need our good reputation back plus it is difficult to have to pay for goods upon delivery. I was informed there was a monthly withdrawal for the Nurit credit card machine. That automatic withdrawal of $40.85 was removed from our account each month. It had not been cancelled and this automatic withdraw had been taken out since the closure of the building, for the past 11 months, costing LOV Ltd. $449.35 through October. Barbara called on October 22nd (she was on hold for about 30 minutes) to cancel the automatic account. She spoke to Austin and to cancel the automatic payment plan, George Beck would need to call them because his name is on the account. She contacted George asking him to call. George spoke to the Nurit representative and cancelled the automatic withdrawal that afternoon, on October 22nd. Our thanks go to George and Barbara for jumping that hurdle. The generator had been tested on October 15th and found in good shape and the fire extinguishers were evaluated and in good shape. LOV Caretaker Bill is in contact with the Food Safety Inspector and when LOV is inspected I will let everyone know in the State of LOV Report. I intend to visit several lodge meetings spreading the news and the latest updates about LOV. The donations are still coming in. We have received a wide range of donation amounts but we can never thank you enough to those who have donated and for those who are thinking about it, your donations are greatly appreciated and will be wisely spent. Helen and Barbara took a drive to open new accounts at NBT Bank and then stopped at LOV. They found the paperwork they were looking for and spent time going through the lodge. The kitchen needed attention and they threw out the half used old jars of food that had been left. They could not leave all the dirty dishes that were left in the refrigerator after the place was closed. Barbara brought them home to run through the dishwasher and we brought them back to LOV the following week. Thanks Helen and Barbara checking the hall and for helping out. Well, things are happening at LOV. This past week Barbara and I stayed in the manager’s house for a night to check the heating system. Fuel was delivered to keep the house warm and not cause additional pipes to burst. The plumber turned on the heat last week to prepare for the hunters staying the end of the month. There were only two leaks in the pipes for the radiators, which I was glad about, but we will need to repair the kitchen ceiling in 2 sections and the floor in the small bedroom upstairs. Keeping the heat at a minimal temperature is a better idea then draining the system and less costly. I had a long conversation with the plumber and I hope to have a definite price to start the replacement of the pipes. The system will be done in several zones so we can shut down and start up when we choose. Of course, this depends on a lot of items, but I have such a good feeling that we will be able to get this done if we all work together. Barbara joined me as her plan was to clean the stoves and the remainder of the kitchen before the food safety inspector accesses our facility so he can approve our annual certificate. She organized some of the shelves and bought clear shower curtains covering the shelves and tables with cooking pots and pans keeping off the dust. So the kitchen is in better condition and the pictures of the before and after are startling. We had our first visitors at LOV. On October 11 & 12 we had bow hunters use our property to go into the woods. They did not catch anything, but were glad to have a few days in nature. We have another hunting group, 5 of them, who will stay in the manager’s house for a few days. A third hunting group contacted me and we will work out that situation also. As per Pennsylvania law we cannot charge people to hunt on our land or we would be liable. Spreading good will in the community is a positive move plus we can ask and any donations received would be welcome. The LOV Board wants to thank the 3D Ways & Means Committee for their recent letter sent to the lodges and membership asking for donations and providing the informative explanations of the most frequently asked questions. I hope that helped you to understand the decisions that were made over the past 2 – 4 years. It is good to have an answer when people ask, “What happened to the money from the gas contract 6 years ago?” As always, the LOV Board and the 3D Board cannot do this alone. We need all your help to make this a success and plan for a “grand re-opening” in the near future. Working together we will get it done. Roy 4

Land of the Vikings

Merry Christmas Gail Martinsen, Cultural Director Norwegian Christmas 5

The Norwegian homes smell like heaven during the Christmas season, due to all of the baking done throughout the holiday. Traditionally, 7 different kinds of cookies are baked in Norwegian homes during the season. I will never forget, on Christmas Eve my Father would bring me, my 2 sisters and our brother to visit the homes of our Aunt and our family friend, Ole and his mother. Mrs. Olsen would go to the many drawers in her kitchen and dining room and pull out seven different tins full of cookies, such as krumkake, fattigman, kringle, etc! Yummy!!! On the way home, he would tell us to look up in the sky, Santa just flew over us! Of course, we never looked soon enough to see him, but, when we arrived home he had left our presents under the tree! The word Jul goes all the way back to the Viking days referring to a special drinking festival. In the 10th Century, King Haakon I moved the date of the drinking festival, Jul to December 25th, so it would coincide with Jesus’ birth. Once the festival became Christianized, they still kept the name Jul and Jul became the name depicting the birth of Jesus. This time of the year due to the snow and cold many of the animals were slaughtered, since they wouldn’t have enough grain, hay, etc. to feed them through the winter. Grain was tied to posts outside of the homes for the birds and the remaining animals were given extra grain and hay. So, fresh meat was in abundance! During this period the homes were cleaned, lots of bread was baked and of course, everyone enjoyed fresh meat. After everyone enjoyed the special meal the leftovers weren’t thrown out, but, put outside in the evening to feed the nissen to keep them from doing mischief to you and yours. On December 13th, Santa Lucia Day everyone started their celebrating. Today, Santa Lucia is the highlight of the season, it celebrates the “queen of lights”. This day is celebrated in schools, hospitals, nursing homes and nurseries. A young girl dressed in a white robe wearing a crown of candles and holding a candle representing Santa Lucia leads the procession. Others in the procession often carry baskets filled with saffron buns to hand out to the audience. The village churches have concerts on this day with the final song of the concert being Santa Lucia. The leader of the children’s choir wears her crown and marches down the church aisle out into the night, to spread the light throughout the town. The 13th of December is historically called Lussinatten (the longest night of the year) and in the past no work was to be done on that day. Nissen and trolls roam from that night on to Christmas. Lussi was an enchantress who was feared by the people because she punished anyone who worked on that day. Also, on this night the animals talk to each other. Everyone attended church on Christmas Day and many after church would go caroling (Julebukk) door to door. The carolers were given numerous delicious goodies as they entertained their neighbors. Today, fewer Norwegians attend church and the Christmas Celebration is for many more just a Festival of Lights.

Glædelig Jul! Godt Nyatt År! Gail ______

Alf Prøysen – 7/23/1914 – 11/23/1970 The most popular story at Christmastime in Norway is “Carpenter Andersen” written by Alf Prøysen. He wrote this book around 1970. It has been the most popular Christmas story in Norway since 1971 on TV and in the local movie theaters. The story is about a carpenter named Andersen, who dresses up as Santa on Christmas Eve to surprise his children. He changes his clothes in his woodshed, but, slips on the ice and falls into his sled filled with presents for his family. The sled slips on the ice down a hill and crashes into Santa’s sled! Andersen and Santa get to talking and Santa suggests that if he visits Andersen’s home could Andersen visit Santa’s? Because, Santa says his family sees Santa every year, but, they have never seen a real carpenter! They agree and visit each other’s family making both families very happy! Alf Prøysen was born in Ringsaker in rural Norway on July 23rd, 1914, the youngest of 4 children. He was very close to his mother, Julie. He grew up on a farm and worked as a traveling farmhand before becoming a musician and author. He married Else Storhaug in 1948 and they had a son, Alf Ketil and a daughter, Elin Julie. His children’s stories and music became very popular on radio and then on TV in the 1960’s. “Mrs. Pepperpot” was his first book, it was published in 1956 and was the first of a popular series. Alf passed away after suffering from Cancer in 1970. He is buried at Norway’s main Honorary Burial Grounds, Vår Frelsers Gravlund.

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Multekrem from Sons of Norway 1 1/3 cup whipping cream 2 medium carrots 3 TBSP. sugar Cloud berries to taste ¾ tsp. vanilla extract Lemon balm or mint for garnish 2/3 to 1 1/3 cup cloudberry jam Whip the cream with sugar and vanilla until it forms soft peaks. Fold in the cloudberries (if using compote, then drain it first) and serve the dessert in small bowls. Garnish with cloudberries and lemon balm or mint leaf. ______

The Norwegian Christmas Tree Thor, God of War and Thunder, felt that the oak tree was sacred and the Vikings thought that the evergreens were Balder, their Sun God’s special plant representing everlasting life. They believed that the evergreens brought the promise of the return of summer. When Christianity came to Norway the oak tree was replaced by the evergreen tree because it’s triangular shape symbolized the Trinity. Today, in Norway the fir tree is decorated with Norwegian flags, tinsel, ornaments (many homemade, such as, paper woven hearts and paper cones filled with candy), candles, white lights and tinsel with a star on the top. You can find the Christmas trees in homes, the town square and the shopping centers. Norwegians had decorated their homes with evergreen swags and wreaths for a very long time, but, the Christmas tree was introduced to Norway in the 1800’s by the Germans. Usually, Norwegians don’t put up their tree until Little Christmas Eve, December 23rd. In Northern Europe they decorated their trees with candles because it was believed that the candlelit tree would shelter the woodland spirits in the winter, when the other trees lost their leaves. In Norway, families dance around the tree singing Christmas carols before opening their presents. In 1947, Norway sent a Christmas tree from Oslo to Trafalgar Square in Britain to thank them for all of their help and support to Norway during the Nazi occupation from 1940 to 1945. Since then, it has become a tradition for Norway to send a Christmas tree to Trafalgar Square in London every year. Also, Norway sends a tree to Union Station in Washington, DC and Edinburgh, Scotland every year at Christmastime. Julenissen The nissen was a national symbol for patriotism in Norway during WW II. Nissen are a large part of Norway’s heritage. The Julenissen come from the Norwegian forest that is found behind the barn. Nisse are found in a large variety of shapes and sizes, but, the Julenissen is a blend of Saint Nicholas and a nisse. He wears a red cap, knee breeches, knee high knitted socks, a Norwegian sweater, a warm jacket and a long white beard. Usually, the Julenissen is a jolly soul, but, he can be stern and a dope! You have to stay in his good graces with bribery or he can play all sorts of tricks on you to make your life difficult. Many think that the nisse were the first settlers in Norway. The nisse protects your land, the buildings on it and keeps your farm in good order. That is as long as you supply him with his Christmas rommegrot, Christmas beer and some lefse on Christmas Eve. The Julenisse, also, bring good health to all of your animals for the next year. Just as American children believe in Santa, Norwegian children believe in the Julenissen. On Christmas Eve, the Julenissen comes to visit the children at their homes and asks them “Are there any good children here?” When the rommegrot is put in the barn on Christmas Eve, surprise by morning it is all gone! The Julenisse teaches the children kindness.

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Norwegian Christmas Tree Baskets STEP 1) Take two pieces of colored paper about 8x12 cm and fold them in half (where the scissor is) before rounding the edge on the top. Cut several slots 2/3 of the way up from the bottom on both halves.

STEP 2) Weave the two sides together as shown. This isn't as difficult as it seems. Weave the strips through each other by "opening" and closing" them.-

Take a green strip and "open" the first loop. Then pull a red strip through. Now open the same red strip and pull the next green strip (closed) through.

STEP 3) Make a handle and glue it to the insides of the basket. 8

STEP 4) Hang the basket on your Christmas tree and fill it up with nuts and candy! ______

Ron Martinsen, PR Director Website: Most of the website you do not need a password to access. You can get the President’s & Vice President’s messages, TDT, newsletter contest, district forms, LOV information, calendar of events, photo gallery, etc. at http://3dsofn.org/home.html To go on the blog or to list an event you need a password. You can get that through registration in the right sidebar on the “Calendar of Events” page. If you have a problem with your password, contact me at [email protected] Once your password is set, you can enter events. If your calendar information is submitted correctly, I will approve your entry. Photos: Some photos I am receiving are not suitable for the Viking Magazine. Something to do with their resolution? Maybe it’s those camera phones (try to get .JPG photos). You can get the requirements on the website at the Publicity page for photos for the Viking Magazine. Anyway, they are OK for the TDT. The deadline is the 15th of the month for the TDT. Click for How to Submit Your Photos from Viking Resource I need photos for the Viking Magazine. Mostly from Northern Lodges. Check out the 3D website at the web address above and look for information on “Constant Contact” e-mails when you receive them. From now on the TDT will only be sent out on Constant Contact or you can access it at the website above. The Third District of Sons of Norway now has a Facebook Page. See below. 9 https://www.facebook.com/TheThirdDistrictoftheSonsofNorway Check out the “Calendar of Events” on the website and the zone reports in this TDT. Lodge editors, please try to send photos to me by the 10th of each month. If you have a new e-mail address or are changing your e-mail address, call Sherry Gorse at Sons of Norway Headquarters at 1-800 945-8851 Thank You, Ron Martinsen, 3D Pub. Dir. [email protected] ------In 1970, John Wayne hosted a variety show celebrating America 's history. Included in the cast were the following (some were uncredited): Ann Margret , Lucille Ball, Jack Benny, Dan Blocker, Roscoe Lee Browne, George Burns, Owen Bush, James Caldwell , Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Roy Clark, Bing Crosby, Phyllis Diller, Edward Faulkner, Lorne Greene, Harry Hickox, Celeste Holm, Bob Hope, Kay E. Kuter, Michael Landon, Forrest Lewis, Dean Martin, Dick Martin, Ross Martin, Greg Morris, Ricky & David Nelson, Hugh O'Brian, Dan Rowan, William Shatner, Orville Sherman, Red Skelton, Tom Smothers, Leslie Uggams, Jesse Vint, John Wayne, Patrick Wayne, Dennis Weaver, Dan White, Hal Williams, The Doodletown Pipers. The closing piece featured many of the show's guests. Enjoy!

You're all going to absolutely love this! https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10203900770857211 Carol Anderson, 3D Sports Director Sports and Recreation Snowkiting in Norway – now here’s a way to spend your Christmas holidays.

Snowkiting, or skikiting as it is also known, is the latest craze in adrenaline soaked sports in Norway. A pair of skis or a snowboard, a helmet, harness, kite, some windproof clothes and some practice are all you will need to reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. Instead of riding a chairlift to the top, snowkiters can use the wind to power them up a mountain and deep into the untouched powder. And there is no better place for fun activity than Norway’s breathtaking mountain plateaus. For a truly exotic snowkiting experience you should visit Varanger far up in Northern Norway. Located next to the powerful Arctic Ocean, Varanger offers the unique opportunity to snowkite while looking out over the sea - an unbeatable combination. The heavy and pretty constant wind here gives you tremendous speed. Another unique feature is the openness of the landscape - there is hardly a tree in sight.

! 9 Snowkiting in Norway- getting some airtime! Awesome

Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a New Year of health and happiness. Carol

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Scandinavian Foods

Click for 2015 Sons of Norway Zone 6 Caribbean Cruise

Click below for photos from the Third District Convention https://www.facebook.com/SonsofNorway3rdDistrictConvention2014

The Hug of The Century Click Here http://www.vitality101.com/Fun/lion-kisses-rescuer

Zone Reports

Zone 1 - Karen Olsen-Helmold –Director- [email protected]

On Nov 2nd, six daring Zone One members braved the wind and cold to attend the 23rd Annual Dave Morris Orienteering Outing at Sills Woods Park. Only 3 (Roy, Barbara and Kristin) participated and completed the course. Zone One provided a hospitality table with hot coffee and bagels.

On November 9th, Twenty-Six Zone One members attended the play Jekyll and Hyde, the musical after which a group of us met for delicious dinner and great conversation at the Bon Witt Inn.

Around the Zone 10

Brooklyn Lodge: Brooklyn Lodge had a very successful installation of officers. They have a new president; Corinne Hall. She has a new, young and energetic board with which to work for the next 2 years. The new officers are ready to get started to increase membership and enhance programs offered by the lodge. From left to right Zone One Director Karen Olsen-Helmold, newly elected Treasurer/Social Director, Kimberly Breiland, Installing Officer Kris Rasmussen and newly installed President Corinne Hall.

Faerder Lodge: At our October meeting, we celebrated a Scandinavian Oktoberfest with Oktoberfest food, Oktoberfest beer and German/Scandinavian music by Ellen Lindstrom. At one point, the women lined up, marched in to the tune of The Happy Wanderer and took a turn around the dance floor with our best dancer, Aksel Andresen, who was celebrating his 93rd birthday. Now we are looking forward to our Annual Christmas Party at the Bay Ridge Manor with music by Smorgasbandent, dancing around the tree and a visit from Santa. Submitted by President Lois Hedlund

Garborg Lodge: Garborg has been having some fun lately. We visited Henrik Ibsen Lodge for their tri-lodge meeting. It was a wonderful evening. We had three hardy members go for a walk in the woods on the Zone 1 Orienteering Challenge. Kristin, Barbara and I hiked along the path in the brisk winds. It was the first real day of fall weather and the wind was howling. We did see many people along the trails but no Zone 1 members. Of course, they could have been there, and we will find out if we won or not, but we had a good time and the Long Island Orienteering Club does a wonderful job hosting this for the organizations across the island. Karen has the picture of everyone who arrived at the beginning. Our January meeting will be our “Thank You Membership Dinner.” We are working on our 2015 calendar and that will be decided soon. Submitted by President Roy Berntsen.

Henrik Ibsen Lodge: On Oct. 17th, Henrik Ibsen Lodge hosted the third tri-lodge meeting for Henrik Ibsen, Garborg and Norden. People dressed in country style clothes, listened to country and country-western music and enjoyed a great hot dog, chili and beans dinner. Ken Olson of Lindbergh Lodge, Vasa Order (and also a member of Loyal Lodge) gave an interesting and sometimes comical talk about the differences and similarities of Norwegians and the Swedes. He ended on one very important similarity; that both groups have to work hard to continue to keep our heritage alive for future generations. Loyal Lodge On Oct. 26th Loyal Lodge celebrated their 90th Anniversary at the beautiful Larkfield Manor. Loads of pictures are available on the Third District Website. On November 8th they held their ever popular Scandinavian Fair. November 14th they had a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. All those attending contributed food for a wonderful buffet. 11

Norden Lodge On November 16th, Norden held is annual Thanksgiving dinner and food drive. For the cost of 2 non-perishable food items or $10.00, members were treated to a turkey dinner with all the trimmings with apple and pumpkin pie a la mode for dessert. Any money collected was used to purchase more food and all food collected and purchased was given to The Helping Hand Mission so those less fortunate could also have a Thanksgiving feast.

Zone 2 - Peter Hanson – Director The Fall is a busy time of year for our Lodges. Planning for fairs and other fund raisers, annual Jultrefests and leadership installations occupies much of the time. Hartford Lodge; Hartford’s Leif Erikson Day Celebration in October was well attended They had an annual meatball dinner to celebrate the day.

On Sunday afternoon the lodge got together to learn about Hardanger Embroidery with Connie Jensen from Thistle Needle=works in Glastenbury, CT.

The lodge’s Juletrefest celebration is scheduled for December 21st. 12

Maine Nordmenn Lodge: The Maine Nordmenn held their monthly meeting on November 6th. They held their elections early due to the great amount of winter travel that members do. In order to maximize the new officers’ attendance it was decided that the November meeting would be a good time to elect them. In addition to that they were installed right after the election by myself. What great efficiency. The Nordmenn have scheduled their Julefest for December 6th This annual event is very popular with the surrounding communities and other Zone lodges. Norumbega Lodge; At the November 1st cultural meeting, the Lodge watched a documentary on the life of Ole Bull and his many accomplishments in music.

On November 15th Norumbega Lodge opened the doors to its annual Scandinavian Fair held in Concord Massachusetts. In excess of 900 visitors came through the doors to shop at various tables which displayed a wide variety of Scandinavian oriented gifts, jewelry, clothing and Christmas decorations. When they got hungry they visited the Nordic Café to indulge in waffles, open faced sandwiches, pølser and bløtkake. A very special guest showed up this year in the form of a Viking magician who worked the crowd most of the day and then put on an hour long magic show for all the children and those who would like to be children again.

Final preparations are made before the doors open to the public

The lodge Christmas party will be held on Friday, December 5th. They will have their usual wonderful Christmas cookies baked by members, a visit from the “julenisse” to hand out the gifts, “riskrem” with the hidden almond, and dancing around the Christmas tree to the music of “The House Band”. The House Band will be made up of any Norumbega musician who would like to join the core members, SAMspill, to play the traditional Norwegian Christmas tunes we use to dance around the tree.

Dovre Lodge; Dovre lodge held it’s annual potluck dinner on Friday October 18th. On November 22nd a group will be carpooling to Fairhaven, CT to attend a Scandinavian fair and visit a couple of Euro stores. On November 13th the Lodge met for a planning meeting to finalize their Juletrefest plans and to begin looking ahead to the coming New Year. Their Juletresfest party is scheduled for December 6th.

Zone 3 – Paul Kornbrekke – Director We had a wonderful memorial service thanks to the members of Bernt Balchen lodge. Many of our lodges are having elections in November I will give you the results next month. Bernt Balchen honored Norwegian and American vets in November and will have their Christmas party on December 6th at Lukans farm resort. Fredheim is having their Christmas party on December 6th at Zion Lutheran . Pleasant Point will be going to Hunterdon playhouse for the Christmas show and have their party later in the month. Nor-Bu is having a pork dinner on December 7th at 2pm and their annual Christmas party on December 20th Nansen will have a breakfast with Santa on December 7th at noon and their annual Christmas party on December 19th Noreg continues with their lunches and cultural classes

Zone 4 –Kari Williams – Director The Holidays are here, lots of Holiday Fairs and Christmas Party Plans. 13 Zone 4 Scholarship Applications are available and all Zone 4 Lodges have Scholarship Raffle Tickets to sell. Kaye Wergedal, Zone 4 2013 3rd District Convention Chairperson, turned over a check from the Convention committee to Zone 4 Director Kari Williams for the Zone 4 Scholarship account, at the Zone 4 meeting, November 1st at the Desmond in Albany.

Zone 4 Director Kari Williams receiving a check for Zone 4 Scholarship Account from Kaye Wergedal, Zone 4 D3 Convention Committee Chairperson.

Zone 4 Presidents and Reps at Zone 4 meeting at Troll's Fair 11/8/14. President Kari Williams’ The Desmond in Albany on November 1st daughter, Karen and granddaughter, Emily in Followed by fun charge of the bakery at the fair.

FRAM LODGE 3-564: The lodge will hold a Christmas dinner at the Normanside Country Club on December 12th, time to be announced.

HUDSON VALLEY LODGE 3-432: The Lodge Christmas Party will be held December 13th at 7pm at Maennerchor, and the children’s Christmas Party will be December 14th At 3pm with a Puppet Show and Santa Claus. The Lodge will have a HUDSON VALLEY WINTER WEEK- END at Winter Clove Family Resort, January 2nd to January 4th, 2015.. Call Arnold Johnson @ 845-527-3587 for information.

NORRONA LODGE 3-467: The Lodge celebrates Christmas on Saturday Dec. 13th 14 At 7:30 pm at the Masonic Temple in Pearl River, NY. Music by Ed Hendela. At 7:30 pm on January 10th, 2015, the lodge has a TEEN NEW YEAR PARTY, a Fun Night of Music and Socializing.

NORSEMEN LODGE 3-572: The Lodge will have their Christmas Party on Saturday, December 13th at Christopher’s in Oneonta

OSLO LODGE 3-438: The Lodge celebrates Christmas on Saturday, Dec.13th with a Sankta Lucia procession and a catered dinner.

SCANDINAVIAN HERITAGE LODGE 3-433: The lodge will have a LUCIA FEST on Saturday, Dec. 13th from 6-8pm at the Fairport United Methodist Church. The lodge is also planning a Christmas Brunch at Mario’s.

TROLL LODGE 3-476: The Lodge is celebrating Christmas with the annual Christmas Party at the Traveler’s Rest in Millwood at 7pm. The Saints will again be playing for our enjoyment.

December 13th seems to be the date the Zone 4 lodges will be celebrating Christmas this year. Some of the Zone 4 lodges have Election of Officers this month for Lodge Officers for 2015/2016, please watch for Installation of Officer notices and try to visit other lodges to support the new officers.

ZONE 4 WISHES ALL LODGES IN THE 3RD DISTRICT A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Submitted by Kari Williams, Zone 4 Director. 15

Zone 5 – Gail Martinsen – Acting Director Where is the “global warming” now?? I bet the citizens of the Midwest, Texas and the Northeast wish they had it right now!! It is amazing how far south the snow storms and cold went this past November! But, the bad weather didn’t stop them from the elections, celebrating Veteran’s Day and of course, enjoying celebrating with friends and loved ones on Thanksgiving Day! Maybe, the only one not enjoying the day was the poor turkey. Gateway to Florida had a very busy month in November. Member, David Fluker, a 20 year Navy Veteran organized the Gateway to Florida veterans to participate in the Annual Jacksonville Veteran’s Day Parade. Many of the members participated in the parade along with their Viking Boat “Hagar”. Members, also, marched in the Annual Jacksonville Light Parade in the beginning of the month with their other Viking Boat “Helga”. Everyone enjoyed a catered traditional Thanksgiving Dinner at their November meeting. All of their vets wore their uniforms, medals or a piece of clothing representing their branch of service. (Wow, it is amazing that some of them can still fit in their uniforms!) The members all joined in singing the songs representing the Navy, Army, Marines, Air Force and the Coast Guard. A slide show about Veteran’s Day was shown at the meeting. Just hearing about their special meeting makes me so proud of Gateway to Florida, our troops are so important to our country! GOD BLESS, ALL OF OUR TROOPS & VETERANS!!! Gulf Coast Vikings met at The Plantation. Karen Slee was their guest speaker, she discussed and displayed her beautiful jewelry designs. She makes bracelets, earrings and necklaces out of clay and silver. Many happy members purchased her jewelry at the meeting. Wow, Gulf Coast Vikings members are so lucky to have an official mascot! He is named Bishop and is owned by the Olson family (they are members of the lodge). Bishop is a Newfoundland and he is such a beautiful dog! Members brought many cans of food to their November meeting for their local food bank. Gulfstream’s President, Ingrid Hammen was unable to attend their November meeting. She was up in New Jersey visiting family. So, instead of a regular meeting they enjoyed a social Takk Fest with a traditional turkey dinner. Lauderdale met at the Scandinavian Center/Norwegian Seaman’s Church. A special meal cooked by Chef Willy and his “crew” was enjoyed by all! Port Orange’s members ate at the Club House Restaurant for an enjoyable lunch and great camaraderie. Sarasota’s members were busy in November with their Annual Scandinavian Fair. This year they had their biggest Bestemor’s Attic ever! Many vendors were represented with a large variety of items for sale at their tables, such as paintings, vintage jewelry, plants, t-shirts and Scandinavian Imports. Of course, their most popular table was their Scandinavian food table! The theme of their November meeting was “Foods Around the World” featuring food from the Philippines introduced by their member, Fred Lopez. We are blessed to have Fred as a member of Sons of Norway, he does so much to help people in need both locally and across the world! Scandia had a photo display of all of their Vets at their November meeting. A special program on the veterans was presented and all of the proceeds raised from their raffle tickets went to the Collier County Honor Flight. They met at The Club @ Longshore Lake with a catered meal which included fårikål (lamb with cabbage) and laks med dill (salmon with dill). Space Coast Vikings met at MeMaw’s Bar-B-Q for a wonderful lunch and fellowship. Suncoast showed an interesting film about the Norwegian Immigrants from 1825 to 1900. The film included letters sent home to Norway depicting their hard work, sorrow, joy and good life here in America! At the beginning of the month Suncoast’s members got together to clean-up their Adopt-A-Mile at the Eagle Lake Park. After working hard, they all enjoyed a breakfast at the Acropol Restaurant. Sun Viking had their Annual Soup Dinner at their November meeting. Many members brought a variety of homemade soups, including ertesuppe, chicken vegetable soup, tortellini soup, broccoli and cheese soup and many others. Several other members brought a large selection of desserts, homemade and store bought, such as apple and pumpkin pies. At the beginning of the month the Crafty Ladies had a table at the Holy Cross Flea Market selling their Norwegian craft items and items donated by members of the lodge. Tusen Takk, girls! The lodge had elections at the November meeting and the nominees all won by acclimation. Tampa Bay gave lessons on cooking Scandinavian specialties, like lefse, krumkake and spritz cookies. I bet they all enjoyed the samples. Some of the members shared their cooking skills with the others. Vikingworld Orlando’s members had their Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. At the meeting everyone participated in a Silent Auction with items they brought from home, including many from Norway. Their President Keith Lavin said that their Viking Boat “Vallhalla” is in need of repair and storage. In order to get the funds for the repairs and storage fees, money raised through their booster fund will go to pay the expenses. The majority of our lodges here in Zone 5 had elections for the 2015 Lodge Officers at their November meetings.

Have a Very Merry Christmas! God Jul! Gail

Zone 6 – Louis Olsen - Director Bondelandet Lodge -- December 12th, 6:30 PM - Christmas Julebord with Turkey and Pork Contact: Svein Klinge, President - [email protected] Fredriksten Lodge - December 19th, 6:30 PM - Lodge Hall - Christmas Banquet with Music Contact: Paul Notwick, President - [email protected] Nordkap Lodge - December 14th, 2:00 PM - Julefest with Music - Pappas' Restaurant Contact: Louis Olsen, President - [email protected] Restauration Lodge - December 14th, 1:00 PM - Julefest Celebration - Springhaven CC Contact: William A. Taylor, President - [email protected] Washington Lodge - December 5th - Holiday Bazaar/Festival & December 14th - Christmas Party Contact: Burt Koske, President - [email protected]

Zone 7 – Dirk Hansen - Director Greetings form Zone 7-Proud hosts of the 2016 3rd District Convention Hampton Roads, our oldest and largest lodge is having a big month. Along with their regular meeting, they have sponsored a Scandinavian Christmas bazaar and are hosting a movie night. They are also heavily involved with the Old Dominion University concert series. The biggest news though is their latest initiative toward new member recruitment. I’ll just tease you here since the results are not in yet but it is high tech and very promising. More to follow on this subject, but, if interested contact the lodge.

God Jul 16 Merry Christmas 17

Southern Star held their November meeting and finalized the 2015 Calendar of events. Scandinavian desserts were featured and the plans for the Christmas parade at Surfside Beach were finalized. Parade float decorating will be done on the 6th of December and the parade is the 13th. Membership voted to do this in lieu of the more traditional Jultrefest. Gladys Hyland will host the paraders afterwards. I will be attending the North Carolina Vikings meeting in Raleigh on the 15th and I am looking forward to seeing Mike Tilder again (who, by the way, was the winner of the Charitable Trust Raffle grand prize). Their lodge will be participating in the Scandinavian Christmas Fair in Raleigh on December 6th (http://www.scanfair.org/). The Scandinavian Christmas Fair in Raleigh, NC, is a celebration of the rich traditions of the Nordic countries: Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. This old-world celebration is certain to get you into the spirit of the season! This year marks the 16th anniversary of the fair. It attracts people and families of all nationalities who want to experience the magic of Christmas in Scandinavia. For many it has become an annual holiday tradition. At the Julmarknad you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Scandinavia: homemade Scandinavian food, live Nordic entertainment all day, craft items and imports for sale, a spectacular Lucia Procession and more! Also, next week on the 22nd of November I will visit Blafjell Lodge in Virginia. They will be holding officer elections for 2015 as well as a Christmas ornament exchange and a music workshop by Marlin Thompson. President Sharon Rohrback is an extremely dedicated and hardworking leader and I am certainly looking forward to this trip. Sharon also wants everyone to know that "Viking Day" is in its 6th year at Faith Christian School. This is not a public event. In the March, 2014, issue of The Viking Magazine, we were honored to have our group picture in the Magazine distributed by Sons of Norway. This five hour event is very important to the 4th graders who will enjoy being in it. All the children dress up, the parents make Viking food, and 5 members of the Blafjell lodge make presentations to the students on Icelandic Vikings. The students read Leif “The Lucky” prior to that day and this is a culminating event to their study. We all eat lunch together and this year the new headmaster will be dressing up with us. Afterwards, the students write us letters about what they remembered the most and we feel a sense of gratitude. This will take place on November 21st

Norsk Carolina in Charlotte will hold their November meeting at a different venue but I am sure the enthusiasm will be as strong as ever. Christmas treats will be featured but the focus is on preparation and aprons will be the recommended attire. Plans for their trip to the Raleigh for the Scandinavian Christmas Fair will be finalized. What can I say? Does any lodge do more to promote Interlodge Fraternalism than Ruth Campbell and her group that I am proud to call friends? The 3rd District needs to buy them a bus (used). Do we have funds for that Helen?

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Please Support The Sons of Norway Foundation and The Third District Charitable Trust

Land of the Vikings (LOV) is now on Facebook. facebook

3D SofN Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/TheThirdDistrictoftheSonsofNorway

Click below for photos from the Third District Convention https://www.facebook.com/SonsofNorway3rdDistrictConvention2014

Click for Sons of Norway 3D Community Connections - Volunteers

Click for 2015 Sons of Norway Zone 6 Caribbean Cruise

Grieg Festival There will be a GRIEG FESTIVAL in Sarasota, FL, January 9-11, 2015 which will include presentations and performances from top experts on Grieg's music from Norway, England, Canada, and the States. A competition for young artists will award $12,000 in cash prizes and tours to Norway for the winners in piano and in voice. Please inform your members of this special event. Sponsors include the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota, Sarasota Music Archive, International Grieg Society and the Royal Norwegian Consul General of Houston. For information, please visit: www.griegfestivalinflorida.org or contact 19 me at [email protected]

Thank you, Sylvia R. Eckes Director, Grieg Festival Vice President of the International Grieg Society, Bergen

Selby Public Library 1331 First Street, Sarasota, FL 34236

Thursday - Saturday, January 8 - 10, 2015 Exhibit of Edvard Grieg's Manuscripts and Letters from the Grieg Archives in Norway

Friday, January 9, 2015 Presentations, Panel Discussion, Performances free and open to the public Rotunda 10:30 a.m. Opening Session, including performances by pianist Sandra Mogensen (Canada), pre-college competition winners, and a talk about the exhibit by Siren Steen (Norway) Geldbart Auditorium 1:00 p.m. “Grieg and America,” Dr. William H. Halverson, keynote speaker, translator of books and songs of Grieg (USA) 2:00 p.m. “Why Grieg?” Beryl Foster, author of books on Grieg's songs and choral works (UK) 2:30 p.m. “At Home with Nina & Edvard Grieg at Troldhaugen,” Monica Jangaard, Chief curator of the Edvard Grieg Museum, Troldhaugen (Norway) 3:00 p.m. “Sets vs. Opuses: A Novel Approach to Programming Grieg’s Piano Works,” Dr. Gloria Cook, Professor of Piano at Rollins College (USA) with performances by pre-college competition winners 3:30 p.m. “The Challenges of Singing in Norwegian,” a panel discussion with Beryl Foster, Njål Sparbo, and American university professors and professional singers

Historic Asolo Theater 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 Friday, January 9, 2015 7:30 p.m. Evening Concert featuring Gloria Musicae, Dr. Joseph Holt with soloist and bass-baritone, Njål Sparbo; bass-baritone Alan Dunbar; and pianist Gregory Martin**

Saturday and Sunday, January 10 & 11, 2015 7:30 p.m. Evening Concerts featuring pianist Antonio Pompa-Baldi; bass-baritone Njål Sparbo; and pianist Einar Røttingen**

Holley Hall Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center 709 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 20

Saturday, January 10, 2015 10:30 a.m. Young Artist Competition Semi-finals. Pianists and singers perform solo piano works and songs of Grieg. free and open to the public

Sunday, January 11, 2015 2:00 p.m. Young Artists Competition Finals Pianists and singers selected from the semi-finals round compete for up to $12,000 in cash prizes and tours to Norway. free and open to the public

**Evening Concerts featuring internationally-acclaimed musicians are presented by the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota. Tickets are required and may be purchased at: artistseriesconcerts.org/eventcategory/special-events/

______

The Hug of The Century Click Here http://www.vitality101.com/Fun/lion-kisses-rescuer Save Land of the Vikings

3D President Mary Andersen, 3D Int. Dir. Marci Larson, Past 3D Int. Dir. Barbara Berntsen and Sons of Norway Fraternal Dir. Linda Pederson at Loyal Lodge’s 90th Anniversary at Larkfield Manor in E. Northport, NY.

Please volunteer for the 2014 Festival and Bazaar!

Plans are in place for two days of Norwegian food, music, arts & crafts, and imported goods, held at Christ Lutheran Church, across the street from the Lodge, on

 Friday, Dec 5, 10 a.m - 7 p.m. and

 Saturday, Dec 6, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The only ingredient missing is help from members and friends. Your donation of time is deeply appreciated, and greatly needed. Commitments can range from 1 hour to the entire event. Jobs include setting-up on Thursday, Dec 4, manning booths and the cafe, and contributing baked goods. Everyone who worked last year will tell you it was lots of fun.

 No Experience Needed!

 Discounts for Volunteers!

 New Members and Friends Welcome!

Follow this link to the volunteer form to sign up for specific jobs or to offer general help. You can change your answers later if necessary. Please use the survey even if you already made a verbal commitment.

Reply to this email if you have trouble with the survey. For questions about the Bazaar itself email [email protected]. See Page 3 of the November Newsletter to appreciate the scope of this event and how much help is needed. A 5% discount is offered for a 3-hour shift and 10% for 6 hours or longer.

Proceeds from the Bazaar support our Lodge's cultural programs, building upkeep, and charitable donations. Mange Takk (many thanks) from the Bazaar Committee.

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(YOU ARE INVITED) FEBRUARY 20 & 21, 2015

AT THE NATHAN BENDERSON PARK WORLD CLASS ROWING PARK

SARASOTA, FLORIDA

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA LODGE 3-­­539 HAGAR SAYS – GET YOUR BOATS READY

Join us for this exciting weekend in Sarasota.  The Regatta will be held at our new, world class Nathan Benderson International Rowing Park.  Activities included are Friday Evening Social 3 Rowing Classes (Men, Women & Coed) Saturday Afternoon Bar-B-Que & Door Prizes Enjoy the new Mall at University Town Center Relax on Siesta Key Tour the Ringling Museum of Art 22 From Bernt Balchen Lodge

AS WE HONOR OUR VETERANS, ENJOY READING BELOW:

ABOUT ONE OF OUR MEMBERS MARGARET LOUISE ANDERSON OSTEYEE

th Margaret will soon celebrate her 100 birthday! She was born on February 21, 1915, in Duluth, MN to Norwegian immigrant parents.

She enlisted in the Navy during World War II and served between 1943 and 1946. Because she had a BA in English, she trained at Smith College to take on a teaching

role during the war.

The call came out to enlist, “Ladies, help us win the war. Relieve a man.” There were no men in her family the right age to serve, so she went. Her father put the red star in the window for her, indicating that a family member was serving.

Margaret was stationed in San Antonio, TX, and Floyd Bennett Field, NY. She taught aircraft reconnaissance and gunnery to cadets in the naval air force. She taught the use of the gunsight mounted on F-4F fighter planes. This was a new gunsight developed during the war. Margaret qualified as “pistol expert” on the 38 caliber revolver. Her highest rank in the Navy was Lieutenant, and she had qualified for Commander when the war ended. Before the war, Margaret taught in many schools, many states and almost all ages from 2nd grade to high school. After the war, she married and remained in New York City, teaching in public and private schools. Margaret is pictured here at the left after the war and also in her uniform on Veteran’s Day 2013, where she was one of 50 guests honored at an assembly at her daughter, Wendy’s elementary school in Harleysville, PA.

She has been a long-time member of Bernt Balchen Lodge and we are very proud of her service and accomplishments.

If anyone would like to send her a birthday card for her 100 years, her address is: Margaret Osteyee C/o Christiansen 267 Manor Road Harleysville, PA 19438

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Maine Nordmenn #3-664 will hold their annual Julefest on Saturday, December 6, from noon until 4:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 2 Columbus Drive, Brunswick, ME. Come and enjoy a Norwegian julebord, desserts, Scandinavian music by Warren Johnson, singing and dancing around the Christmas tree, St. Lucia procession, a visit from the Julenisse for the kids, and a silent auction. Admission is $10 for adults; 15 and under free. For directions, Google “Knights of Columbus, Brunswick, ME.” Pay at the door or send payment to June Kirk, 1 Yeaton Dr., Waterville, ME. For more information call 207-872-5298. All are welcome. In Brooklyn, Wontons, Not Lapskaus Years back I found this article published on March 17, 1991 by Andrew L. Yarrow and the title is his title from his article. I am going to summarize it and add some comments of my own as this is twenty-three years later. As you will realize the 1980’s becomes the transformation of the Brooklyn Community and these changes of two very different cultures were as opposite as they can be. Bay Ridge has changed. For years, the Atlantic was the hub of a stretch of Eighth Avenue between 45th and 60th Streets that was dotted with dozens of Norwegian bars, bakeries and restaurants. But in the 1980's, as Chinese and Arab immigrants moved in, Chinese restaurants and meat markets supplanted almost all the Norwegian businesses along a street that was popularly known as Lapskaus Boulevard. The Norwegians felt they were “Strangers in Their Own Haunts.” I remember the streets easy to walk around and people gathered to have a conversation. Now as you walk down 8th Avenue the streets are crowded with goods piled outside the stores and people galore. I did not grow up in Brooklyn, but my family did, so I spent most of my summers there. A few Bay Ridge churches, like the 59th Street and Trinity Lutheran Churches, still conduct services in Norwegian. The annual Norwegian Constitution Day parade is still held every May 17, making its way along Fifth Avenue to Leif Ericson Park, where Miss Norway is crowned. Although many immigrant farmers moved west, others, especially sailors, founded the Norwegian Seamen's Church in 1878 near the docks of Red Hook. They stayed in New York eventually gravitating toward this southwestern Brooklyn neighborhood. Last summer the Zion Lutheran Church in Brooklyn closed due to lack of membership. It was a sad time for those who were parishioners’ for so many years. The 59th Street Church and the Trinity Lutheran Church do not conduct their services in Norwegian any longer but have active congregations. From 100 papers to only 2. The Norway Times is the most prominent vestige of a community settled by tens of thousands of Norwegians and other Scandinavians who emigrated because of crop failures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. More than 100 Norwegian newspapers were started in America but today Norway Times and The Western Viking, based in Seattle, are the only survivors. Circulation for The Norway Times has fallen to about 5,000 now (in 1991), from more than 20,000 in the 1940's, and that slide was only arrested somewhat by the decision of the paper's new Oslo-based owners in 1983 to switch the Norwegian-language publication to one in which 80 percent of its articles are in English. In small letters on the front page and masthead, the paper still identifies itself as Nordisk Tidende. It was believed at times that the Norway Times did not represent the culture and events going on in Brooklyn but more of the news that gathered from shortwave-radio broadcasts, facsimile messages from friends in Norway and news summaries from the Norwegian Foreign Ministry. Articles appealing to the Norwegian business community in Manhattan, like one on the prospects for Norwegian companies to capitalize on the growing American demand for environmental- technology products, are increasingly played up, while tidbits of local news like the 80th Anniversary celebration of Brooklyn's Sporting Club Gjøa are given shorter shrift. Another sign of the Norwegian-American community's decline is the flagging fortune of The Norway Times, which is marking its 100th Anniversary this winter. There is little to celebrate in the paper's crowded five-room office at 81st Street and Fifth Avenue in Bay Ridge, and among its dwindling readership, there is sadness that the area's Norwegian community is on the verge of extinction. The Norway Times has been gone for years and the merging of Norway Times and the Western Viking is now The Norwegian-American Weekly” and that paper is still struggling to gain its readership. Check it out on-line: http://www.na-weekly.com/ The former Atlantic restaurant, a popular diner that for decades catered to the many Norwegian-Americans in the Sunset Park and Bay Ridge sections of Brooklyn. Today, above the entrance on Eighth Avenue and 54th Street, a bright red-and-yellow sign proclaims "WeeKee's." And in one of New York's strangest ethnically hyphenated amalgams, the menu now describes the cuisine as "Chinese-Norwegian-American." The Chinese and Norwegian waitresses alternate between serving dumplings and wonton soup and fish pudding and stekte middagspolser, or fried sausage. WeeKee’s is now gone too. Olsen's, a bakery still features apple crumb squares and fyrste kaker, an almond cake, as it has for the last half century. It was said: "It's sad. We feel out of place, like strangers here. There used to be two or three Norwegian bars and bakeries on each block. Now there are two or three Chinese restaurants on a block." Perhaps the most upbeat local story is the success of Fredericksen & Johannesen, a Scandinavian food em- porium. Pungent smoked hams and legs of lamb hang from the ceiling, wheels of Nokkelost and Norvegia cheese and homemade sausages beckon at the deli counter and shelves are brimming with condiments, candies, caviar and ubiquitous cans of fishballs. The store, which dates to the 1940's, was bought in 1986 by Stephen Postler. To attract customers, he got a JC Penney catalogue franchise and aggressively devel-oped a national Scandinavian food mail-order business. I could not find them on the web so I guess they are not in existence or have changed their name. Thank goodness we still have Nordic Delicacies on 3rd Avenue and 69th Street with homemade food specialties and Norwegian gift items. Recently Leske’s Bakery opened on Fifth Avenue and advertises old and new recipes plus their “Kringler Klub.” From Barbara Berntsen Editor, Garborg Lodge 24 25