FREE TAKE ONE!
Winter 2019
Norwegians take their dogs out for a sled ride near Tromsø, Norway.
INSIDE Calendar of events — Page 2 Dakota Finnish Report — Page 4 No Such Thing As Bad Weather— Page 10
SHA Membership — Page 3 Saving Cash — Page 8 Christmas In Scandinavia — Page 12 Page 2 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Scandinavian Heritage News “No one can whistle Vol. 32, Issue 4 • Winter 19-20 Published quarterly by a symphony. It takes The Scandinavian Heritage Assn. a whole orchestra to 1020 S. Broadway • PO Box 862 play it.” (H.E. Luccock) Minot ND 58702 And boy do we have (701) 852-9161 a great orchestra here at the park! We cannot Newsletter Editor: Leann Mellum Please submit articles to [email protected] express our gratitude enough to the numerous volunteers that keep our park and o ce up and running throughout the year, it takes many people to keep the park open Scandinavian Heritage from May through September each Association year and we are thankful for those 1020 S. Broadway • PO Box 862 who dedicate their time to allow our Minot ND 58702 (701) 852-9161 • [email protected] park to be showcased. We have an scandinavianheritage.org amazing attraction and it wouldn’t be possible without the endless 2019 OFFICERS Jennifer Lock President e ort of the members on our board S Every home needs a tomte! Pick up yours today at the Scandinavian Heritage Gift Shop Elizabeth Gjellstad Vice President and the countless volunteers that Marion Anderson Secretary located at 1020 S Broadway Minot. Open have dedicated their time and de- Sue Weston Treasurer Monday-Friday; 8 am to 5 pm. votion to making the park so won- BOARD OF DIRECTORS derful. We are truly blessed to live in Varty, Eva Goodman, and Marilyn Three-year terms ending January 2022 a community of generous people. If Fiedler. They make sure visitors are you haven’t had the opportunity to Marion Anderson Liz Gjellstad greeted with a smile and get ques- Robert Bruhaug Adelaide Johnson volunteer with us and would like to tions answered. Melissa Haugen Sue Weston get involved, please do not hesitate I would like to recognize the many to contact our o ce! We would love hours and days spent by John Sinn, Three-year terms ending January 2021 to have you on our team! Les Strege and the Minot Park Board Myron Anderson Curt Medalen As a special thanks to our o ce Jarrod Olson Erv Johnson volunteers Marilyn Wagner, Joan SHA: Cont. On Page 5 Eva Goodman Jennifer Lock
Three-year terms ending January 2020 Jerome Jorgenson Helene Anderson Les Strege Joan Varty WinterWinter 19-2019-20 CalendarCalendar Marilyn Wagner Tessa Nesheim • January 18 — 2 pm, Swed- • January 25 — 10 am, SHA One-year terms ending January 2020 ish Society meeting, Sons of annual meeting Kev Davick Jordon Lakoduk Norway lodge Ex-O cio Members • February 5 — George O - Gail Peterson, Past President • January 20 — John Sinn’s cer’s 100th Birthday Mark Anderson, Past President 99th Birthday! Bruce Christenson, Past President Carroll Erickson, Past President Allen O. Larson, Past President Roald Mattson, Past President George Officer,Past President Directors Emeritus Jeanne McNea Jim Maragos John Sinn Doris Slaaten Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 3
Photo by Amanda Punt Join the Scandinavian Heritage Association today! Join us in preserving the values and values and ethics Invitation to Annual Banquet and traditions of our proud And much more! other SHA events heritage. Established Memberships start at $35 and in- cludes many benefits. Please call (701) 1988, the park is the only SPONSOR 852-9161or stop by our office to be- one in the world repre- $100.00-$499.00 per year will receive come a member! senting all five Scandina- the SHA Membership Package, plus: vian countries and hosts MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES Recognition in the Newsletter (1 issue) thousands or visitors each year from One Complimentary Ticket to the around the world. SUSTAINING Annual Banquet As a member of the Scandinavian $35.00 per year will receive the SHA BENEFACTOR Heritage Association, you help support: Membership Package, which includes: $500 and above per year will receive Interpretive Tours of the Park Membership Card good for 10% off The Heritage House Museum Scandinavian Gift Shop items the SHA Membership Package, plus: Local School Field Trips Membership Pin (initial membership) Recognition in the Newsletter (1 issue) “Midsommer Natt” Celebration The Scandinavian Heritage News, Two Complimentary Tickets to the The on-going preservation and promo- official newsletter of Scandinavian Heritage Annual Banquet tion of the Scandinavian traditions, positive Association SHA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Name (print) MEMBERSHIP LEVEL Sustaining Member Sponsor Member Benefactor Member Address PAYMENT Check MC Visa Discover Am. Exp. City Card# _ _ _ _ - _ _ _ _ - _ _ _ _ - _ _ _ _ Exp. date _____ State Zip Name on card ______3-Dig______Email Signature ______Phone Please mail to SHA, PO Box 862, Minot ND 58702 Page 4 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019 Dakota Finnish Dakota Finnish Society Scholarships Society held 19th annual AUSTIN PHILLIPS
Pikkujoulu Austin is a Junior at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and is studying to be a civil engineer. He celebration; worked in the oil fields here in North Dakota for five awards years and studied on line part time and then went back to Minnesota to start college full time. He was a scholarships supervisor for Weatherford International while in North Dakota. He is the son of Carla Phillips and grandson The Dakota Finnish Soci- of Myron and Marion Anderson, all of Minot, ND, and ety held their 19th annual members of the Dakota Finnish Society. Austin was Pikkujoulu (Little Christmas) well versed in Finnish culture having lived in Minot celebration on December 7 those five years with a Finnish Grandmother. He is pres- at the Visitors Center. There ently an engineering intern with Chosen Valley Testing were over 60 in attendance. from St Paul, Minnesota. Guests were from Minot, Rock Lake, Rolla, Bismarck, Velva, Stanley, Devils Lake, ETHAN ECKHOLM Wing, Mohall, Berthold, Belcourt, Washburn and Ethan is from Wing, North Dakota, and is a senior at Glenburn, North Dakota Valley City State University where he is studying history and also from Cook, Min- along with other subjects. He is handicapped and in nesota. A meatball dinner a wheelchair since 3 1/2 years of age due to an allergic catered by Homesteaders reaction to a chemotherapy drug for leukemia. He was served and many door would like to work in a library or in a museum work- prizes were given out. ing with historical archives. His parents are Daryl and Carl Kannianen and Shelly Eckholm of Wing and they are members of the Dave Salinas provided mu- Dakota Finnish Society. Ethan is from a community sic. Donations of $500 each with several Finnish residents and he knows well the were given to the Salvation meaning and use of “sisu”—determination to do what- Army, Domestic Violence ever it takes and not give up. Crisis Center and Homeless Coalition. ALLI SANDBERG In addition, three college scholarships of $500 each Alli Sandberg from Cook, MN. Is 25 percent Finnish. were awarded to Ethan She is a Junior attending the University of North Dako- Eckholm of Wing, ND, Alli ta and is majoring in Elementary Education with a mi- Sandberg of Cook, MN, and nor in Special Education. Her parents are Brad & Dee- Austin Phillips of Minne- Ann Sandberg of Cook, MN. She is the niece of Todd apolis, MN. All three have and Dawn Seopa of Minot, ND, who are members of relatives involved in the the Dakota Finnish Society. She is a graduate of North Dakota Finnish Society. Woods School where she excelled in sports and aca- At the end of the day, demics. The past four summers she has been a student several partook of the intern at North Star Credit Union in Cook, MN. warm sauna in the park that was heated up for anyone who wished to participate. Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 5
SHA: Cont. From Page 2 for making our park a Christmas wonderland. A big thank you to all of you for decorating the park so beau- tifully. We all look forward to the lighting of the park each year. The beauty of the Christmas season brings so much joy! We had a very eventful season in the park, several weddings took place in the Gol Stave Church amongst other special events like Mid Summer Night. We did some updating to the Heritage House and other build- ings with more plans in the works. Visitors from near and far made their stroll through the park and gift shop. Our Christmas open house was held on Novem- ber 23, 2019. We have several new items in our gift shop including Norwegian trolls, recipe dish towels, books, rosemaled ornaments hand painted by Minot’s own Marlene Golly and more. Back by popular demand are Ole & Lena fortune cookies! All of these items make perfect gifts so make sure to stop by and finish up some last minute Christmas shopping. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year filled with Peace, Love and Lefse!
— Jennifer Lock, SHA President
SHA Donations & New Members We are grateful for all the donations UNDESIGNATED WALL OF HONOR MEMORIAL received, and the memory for which they MEMORIAL Ernie & Marilyn Selland, given by Paula are honoring. George Fredrickson, given by Marlys Selland Armstrong MEMORIAL DONATIONS MEMORIAL DONATION FOR CARE OF Jeanice Officer, given by Myron & DONATIONS PARK Marion Anderson, Marilyn Wagner, Gail Given by Lynn Aas, Anna Marie Huesers, Glenneys Berg, given by Norma Berg Peterson, Eva Goodman, Doris Slaaten, First Western Bank & Trust, Elizabeth Gjell- Adelaide Johnson, Elizabeth Gjellstad , stad, Melissa Haugen NEW MEMBERS Opal Thompson Timothy Wood Gerald Gulbranson Page 6 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019
Norway named world’s best country to live in UN Report concludes new inequalities developing between people of the world - especially in terms of eduation and technology
By Norway Today The UN has once again voted Nor- way as the world’s best country to live in. At the same time, new types of inequalities in societies around the world are developing, according to the UN report. The report is conducted by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and it is the 15th consecutive year that Norway tops the list of coun- tries ranked according to the UN Living Conditions Index. Just behind are Switzerland, Ireland, Germany and Hong Kong. Sweden and Denmark are ranked eighth and elev- enth respectively. At the other end of the spectrum are a number of African countries, and all of the bottom 12 countries on the list are African. At the bottom are Chad, the Central African Republic and Niger. S The Northern Lights dazzel over the sky of Lofoten, Norway. The report concludes that com- pletely new inequalities are developing important prerequisites for success. “People gather in the streets for var- between people in the world, especially When people are left with only the most ious reasons – the price of a train ticket, related to education and new technolo- basic, the steps on their path to the fu- gasoline prices, demands for political gy. Factors that could potentially trigger ture are removed, says Pedro Conceição, freedom and the pursuit of justice. This huge disparities in society in a way the director of UNDP’s Human Develop- is the new face of inequality,” says UDNP world has not seen since the industri- ment Report (HDR). chief Achim Steiner. al revolution of the late 18th century, The report also points to major gen- In the past year, climate demon- according to the report. der differences as another important strations have also been held regularly Where the world has previously factor in the inequalities. Around half of throughout the world. The UN report tried to deal with crises such as hunger, people from the countries surveyed in believes that the climate crisis could poverty and disease, there are now a the report believe that men are better greatly affect the development of number of other factors that are also suited as political leaders than women. increased differences in the world. Poor contributing to the differences between More than 40 percent think that men countries will notice the consequences rich and poor countries. In countries are better suited as business leaders. of the climate crisis first and foremost, with very high human development, Based on current trends, according and climate change is a recipe for even the proportion of broadband subscrib- to the report, it will take 202 years be- more inequality, the report concludes. ers is growing 15 times faster than in fore the current gender gap is evened “Those at the top must help those at countries with low human develop- out in terms of economic opportunities. the bottom,” ment. At the same time, the percent- Development Minister Dag-Inge age of adults with higher education is DEMONSTRATIONS WORLDWIDE Ulstein (KrF) says “that while Norway growing six times faster. Recently, frequent demonstrations is pleased to top the list, the countries have marked a number of countries that are at the top must do more to help BIG GENDER DIFFERENCES around the world, including the Yellow those at the bottom.” What used to be “okay to have”, such Vest in France and the mass demonstra- For the first time in world history, we as going to university or having access tions in Hong Kong, Chile, and Catalonia to broadband, is becoming increasingly in Spain. UN Report: Cont. On Page 7 Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 7
in the making
At 34, Finland’s Sanna Marin Set To Become World’s Youngest Sitting Prime Minister By NationalHisto y Public Radio Sanna Marin is set to become Fin- land’s third female prime minister — and its youngest — leading a coalition of four other parties, all headed by women. At just 34, she will also stand out on the world stage by being the world’s youngest sitting prime minister. Marin was nominated Sunday by her Social Democratic party after its leader, Antti Rinne, stepped down after losing the confidence among his coalition gov- ernment over his handling of a postal strike. Marin, a former transport and com- munications minister, will be the coun- S Sanna Marin celebrates after winning her party’s prime minister nomination on Sunday. The try’s third-ever female prime minister, 34-year-old will be Finland’s third female government head. (Photo: Vesa Moilanen/AP) according to NPR’s Rob Schmitz. Howev- er, she told reporters the focus shouldn’t opposition from the rising populist “For me, human rights, equality, or be on her identity. right-wing Finns Party, according to equality of people have never been “She brushed away questions about the Helsinki Times. Ahead of the party questions of opinion but the basis of her age and gender, saying she has nev- election, Marin promised to continue my moral conception,” she said. “I joined er thought about either,” Schmitz says. supporting welfare programs and an politics because I want to influence how “Instead, she told reporters, she thinks “equal and fairer society.” society sees its citizens and their rights.” about the reasons she got into politics A left-leaning progressive, Marin was Marin won the party’s nomination and the things for which her party has first elected to Parliament in 2015. She over Antti Lindtman, a 37-year-old Par- won the trust of the electorate.” wrote on her website that her party’s liament member, by a vote of 32-29. Finland’s Social Democrats have led values of “equality, freedom and peace” This story was originally published by the country’s left-wing coalition since appealed to her when she first involved NPR on December 9, 2019. For more infor- earlier this year, but has faced strong herself in politics. mation visit www.npr.org
the poorest countries. Right overcome these problems is Small farmers get their crops UN Report: Cont. From Page 6 now we are not on track to to step up efforts to reduce washed away. People are have a real opportunity to achieve the sustainability climate emissions. starving and leaving their eradicate all extreme poverty goals by 2030. The clock is “But we cannot close our homes. The potential for con- in the world. But after a long ticking, Ulstein informs NTB. eyes to the fact that millions flict increases. Ultimately, this period of progress, we now The Minister of De- today are already being will have consequences for see that the arrows are point- velopment believes that hit hard by climate change us as well,” Ulstein warns. ing downwards for many of an important measure to that others have created. Page 8 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019 Saving Cash Coast Guard rescues Keith Johanneson’s dog in Gulf of Mexico
By Dennis Doeden midji Veterinary Clinic, whose Bemidji Pioneer number was on Cash’s tag, FORT MYERS BEACH, and the clinic in turn called Fla. — It wasn’t the first time the Johanneson’s to let them Cash the dog had run off in know their dog was safe. search of birds. But it could “If they hadn’t rescued have been the last, if not for him we would not have a the heroic efforts of the Unit- dog today, so we’re very ed States Coast Guard. grateful,” Keith Johanneson Cash, whose full name said in the television report. is Cash Register, belongs to He told the Pioneer, “If they Keith and Maria Johanneson hadn’t been there, he proba- of Bemidji, who spend win- bly would have been swept ters in Florida. The 13-year- out into the Gulf of Mexico old Red Setter is a profes- and that would have been sionally trained bird hunter. the end of him.” He has escaped his owners’ Keith is president of fenced-in yard a half a dozen Johanneson’s, Inc., based on times. Last Thursday, Keith Bemidji. Maria is director and figures that Cash climbed operator of the Bear’s Lair onto a sofa in the swimming Lodge & Game Farm in the enclosure, jumped over the Puposky area. fence and headed about a Since the ABC story was mile down the beach to a broadcast, the couple has park. received messages from “He has a nose for birds,” friends and family around the Keith said. “We use him out country. at our hunting lodge (north Meanwhile, the Johan- of Bemidji). Unfortunately neson’s plan to install an down here in Florida he de- electric fence around their cided he was going to chase S Maria and Keith Johanneson are happy they still have Cash, their property, while Cash sleeps birds, so this was about the 13-year-old Red Setter who was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard in the off his latest encounter with fifth or sixth time he’s gotten Gulf of Mexico o Fort Myers Beach, Fla., last week. Submitted photo. birds and water. out and we’ve had to go res- Keith Johanneson is CEO cue him. He’s kind of like the and alerted the Coast Guard, on board to safety. The ABC of Johanneson’s Inc which Houdini of dogs.” which dispatched a boat to video shows Cash licking the operates Marketplace Foods, They needed help with the area. According to an face of one of his rescuers, a major corporate sponsor of the rescue this time. Keith ABC-TV news report, Cash then shaking off water and Norsk Høstfest. Johanneson believes Cash chased a bird had been swimming for looking quite relieved. also was inducted in the Scan- from the beach into the Gulf about 30 minutes when the “You’re the best person dinavian-American Hall of of Mexico, and the tides were Coast Guard boat found I’ve ever rescued,” one of the Fame in 2013. He is of Icelandic going out, sweeping the old him. Two crew members Guardsmen could be heard descent. dog away from shore. were able to lure Cash to the saying to Cash. A boater saw the dog side of boat and pull him The Guardsmen called Be- Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 9 Jeanice L. Skogen Peterson Officer
July 23, 1927 - November 28, 2019
Jeanice L. (Skogen) Peterson Haugen, Melissa Haugen, Sara Officer, 92, Minot, ND, formerly of (Brad) Schmidt, Curtis (Nicole) Ryder, ND passed away Thursday, Peterson, Samantha (Lance) November 28, 2019, at her resi- Cleland, Drew Schuelke, Tyler dence. Schuelke, Todd (RaNae) Offi- Jeanice Lorraine Skogen and cer, Troy Officer, Traci (Nathan) her twin sister, Jeanette were French; great-grandchildren, born on July 23, 1927, the daugh- Keanin Haugen, Stuart Schmidt, ters of Carl and Gunhild (Iverson) Chaskee Schmidt, Piper Schmidt, Skogen, in Roseglen, ND. They Kiera Peterson, Savaya Peterson, were raised on a farm and at- Kaylee Peterson, Tyler Officer, tended Deepwater Elementary Grace Officer, Kayli French and School near Roseglen and grad- Tanner French; sister-in-law, uated from Ryder High School in LeAnna Skogen; brothers-in-law, 1945. She attended Minot State Russel Johansen, Bob Thom; step University for one year and then daughters-in-law, Renee Best-Of- one year at St. Olaf College in ficer and Kathy Officer; and husband’s death, she remained Northfield, MN. After her educa- numerous nieces, nephews and on the farm and worked at the tion, she taught in rural schools cousins. Ryder Exchange. for four years. Jeanice was preceded in death On June 10, 1983, she married Jeanice married Lloyd C. Pe- by her parents; husband, Lloyd George Officer and they moved terson on September 19, 1948, C. Peterson; twin sister, Jea- to Minot. They spent many sum- at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, nette Johansen; sisters, Marian mers at their cabin near Garrison, rural Roseglen. They established (Cliff) Bergan and Grace (John) ND. They were charter members their own homestead near Ryder Hays; infant sister, Marcella Sko- of Bread of Life Lutheran Church in Anna Township, Ward Coun- gen; brothers, Irving and Carlyle and were very active there. Jean- ty in 1951. They had three chil- Skogen; step-sons, Michael and ice was a member of the Sons dren, Marcia, Bruce and Nancy. Rodney Officer; brothers-in-law of Norway, the Scandinavian Jeanice was active in the Ryder and sisters-in-law, Lial (Gladys) Heritage Center, the Ward Coun- Community and was a member Peterson, Leslie (Mildred) Peter- ty Historical Society, the Ward of St. John’s Lutheran Church, son, Leighton Peterson, Leonard County Library Board and was where she taught Sunday School (Agnes) Peterson, Lucille (Rex) an active volunteer at the Norsk for over 20 years, a member of Woods, Lillian (Allen) Romsas, Hostfest. They moved into Som- the Ladies Aide and her church Lydia Peterson, Lavina (Carl) erset Court in October of 2016. circle. Along with her twin sister, Sauer, Laura (Clayton) Erb, Lu- Her loving family includes: Jeanette, they organized a 4-H verna (Ira) White, Lorraine (Ferd- husband, George Officer, Minot; club and was a charter member ie) Peterson, Lenora (Wayne) Erb, children, Marcia (David) Haugen, of the Stitch & Chatter Birthday LeRoy Peterson, Lynn (Gladys) Minot, Bruce (Debbie) Peterson, Club and Busy Bees Homemak- Peterson, Leona (Ray) Zahnow, Ryder and Nancy (Tom) Schuel- ers Club. Her husband Lloyd died Alvin (Eleanor) Officer, and Eu- ke, Chandler, AZ; grandchildren, April 30, 1978. Following her gene (Fern) Officer. Chris (Carla) Haugen, Jacqueline Page 10 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019 “There’s No Such Thing As Bad Weather” only bad clothes...Think like a Norwegian this winter season
By Laura Vanderkam FastCompany.com As the days get darker and colder in much of the northern hemisphere, it’s easy to indulge in gloom. For the next few months, you’ll be shivering. You’ll be battling foul weather. Thanks to daylight saving time there will be no chance to see the sun after work. The gloom leads to a common question: What can I do to cope with the dark and cold? If you truly want to be happy during winter, though, this is the wrong approach to the season. Changing your mindset can do more than distracting yourself from the weather. S Norwegians take their dogs out for a sled ride near Tromsø, Norway. That’s the takeaway from research done by Kari question to be asking,” she lessons that can help anyone warm beverages, and sit Leibowitz, currently a PhD says. When she asked people think differently about cold under fuzzy blankets. There’s student at Stanford Univer- “Why don’t you have season- weather. a community aspect to it too; sity, who spent August 2014 al depression?” the answer First, Norwegians cele- it’s not just an excuse to sit to June 2015 on a Fulbright was “Why would we?” brate the things one can only on the couch watching Net- scholarship in Tromsø in It turns out that in north- do in winter. “People couldn’t flix. Leibowitz reports that northern Norway. Tromsø is ern Norway, “people view wait for the ski season to Tromsø had plenty of festi- so far north that from late winter as something to be start,” says Leibowitz. Getting vals and community activi- November to late January, enjoyed, not something to outside is a known mood ties creating the sense that the sun never climbs above be endured,” says Leibowitz, booster, and so Norwegians everyone was in it together. the horizon. Leibowitz went and that makes all the differ- keep going outside, what- And finally, people are en- to study the residents’ overall ence. ever is happening out there. amored with the sheer beau- Notes Leibowitz: “There’s a ty of the season. Leibowitz mental health, because rates LESSONS FROM THE FAR of seasonal depression were saying that there’s no such grew up near the Jersey NORTH thing as bad weather, only shore, and “I just took it as a lower than one might expect. To be sure, there are some At first, she was asking bad clothing.” fact that everyone likes sum- aspects of the near-polar Norwegians also have a mer the best.” But deep in “Why aren’t people here culture that might be hard more depressed?” and if word, koselig, that means the winter in Norway, when to emulate elsewhere. Small a sense of coziness. It’s like the sun doesn’t rise above there were lessons that could Norwegian communities are be taken elsewhere. But once the best parts of Christmas, the horizon, multiple hours a tightly knit, and strong social without all the stress. People day can still look like sunrise she was there, “I sort of real- ties increase well-being ev- ized that that was the wrong light candles, light fires, drink erywhere. That said, there are WEATHER: Cont. On Page 11 Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 11 The Swedish Heritage Society of NWND, Minot, ND
By Bev Jensen Our nominee, Richard L. Lind- attend the Governor’s Reception and The Swedish Society of Minot was strom, MD, is a fourth-generation Banquet. founded in 1993 for the goal of the MN Swede, recognized as an inter- On behalf of our Swedish Society, organization to learn, observe and national ophthalmologist. He is we wanted to show our appreciation preserve the Swedish heritage. known for cornea, cataract, glauco- and thanks to Dr. Lindstrom for his The Dala horse, the most recog- ma, laser and refractive surgery. He many contributions for eye care and nized symbol for the world, was our was awarded 40 patents, is a teacher, his induction. A Fika with coffee and project and dedicated in the Scandi- inventor, lecturer and has a passion Scandinavian treats were served in navian Heritage Park in 2000. for mentoring future doctors. He his honor on September 25th in the Members have also continued created the Phillips Eye Institute Hospitality Room during the Norsk to participate in the annual Norsk Center for teaching and research in Høstfest. A crystal Dala Horse was Høstfest each fall. This year was no Minneapolis. presented. Society members invited exception. Dr. Lindstrom was chosen by the local eye care doctors to attend. At the spring meeting our society Høstfest Committee and was in- We are very honored to have our voted to submit an official nomina- ducted into the Hall of Fame at the nominee chosen, and to have Dr. tion form to the Norsk Høstfest for September 24th Høstfest Banquet. Richard L. Lindstrom a member in considering an inductee into the Dr. Darrell Williams was the present- Minot’s Scandinavian-American Hall Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame er. Our Swedish Society was invited of Fame. for 2019. to celebrate his induction and to
mon to the far north. Still, there are lit- for a walk outside, knowing that you’ll WEATHER: From Page 10 tle things non-Norwegians can do. “One likely feel warmer and happier after of the things we do a lot of in the States a few minutes. Better yet, go with a and sunset, and against the snow, “the is we bond by complaining about the friend. Social plans are a great reason to colors are incredibly beautiful,” she says. winter,” says Leibowitz. “It’s hard to have haul yourself out from under the covers. “The light is very soft and indirect.” a positive wintertime mindset when But overall, mindset research is A MINDSET SHIFT we make small talk by being negative increasingly finding that it doesn’t Most likely you can’t cross-country about the winter.” take much to shift one’s thinking. “It ski straight out of your house, and while This is easy enough to change; sim- doesn’t have to be this huge compli- Norwegian sweaters may be catch- ply refuse to participate in the Misery cated thing,” says Leibowitz. “You can ing on, restaurants and coffee shops Olympics. Talk about how the cold gives just consciously try to have a positive in more temperate climates don’t all you a chance to drink tea or hot choc- wintertime mindset and that might be feature the fireplaces and candles com- olate all day. Talk about ice skating, or enough to induce it.” building snowmen. Bundle up and go
North of the SHA Park at 500 South Broadway HOMA T FAMILY WESTLIE Minot S FORD • LINCOLN • MERCURY 852-1354 Funeral Home Bradley Thomas • Bryan Thomas We are proud of our Swedish Heritage via the SUPPLYING THE TOOLS FOR YOUR Quist and Chelgren (Johnson) BUSINESS FOR OVER 65 YEARS lineages. 17 East Central Ave. • 838-8624 Page 12 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019 Christmas in Scandinavia: Traditions, Events, and Foods
By Terri Mapes Trip Savvy There are many won- derful Scandinavian Christ- mas traditions that make a December visit to the Nordic region worth braving the cold weather. While they may share some seasonal cus- toms, Scandinavian countries have individual beliefs and their own unique ways of celebrating the holidays. If you are planning a trip to the Nordic region, includ- ing the countries of Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Iceland, brush up on local folklore. S As with other Scandinavian countries, Christmas markets and concerts can be found in most SWEDEN cities across Norway during the winter months. The Swedish Christmas to a traditional family dinner mance happening on each drawn by reindeer with begins with Saint Lucia Day including a buffet dinner day of December leading presents for the children. on December 13. Lucia was (smörgåsbord) with ham, up to Christmas. In Uppsa- Julemanden is assisted with a third-century martyr who pork, or fish, and a variety of la, check out the Christmas his Yuletide chores by elves brought food to persecuted sweets. concert held in the Helga known as julenisser, who are Christians in hiding. Usually, After the festive Christmas Trefaldighets church—a traditionally believed to live the eldest girl in the family Eve dinner, someone dresses building that dates back to in places like attics and barns. portrays St. Lucia, putting on up as Tomte. According to the 1300s. The mischievous Danish a white robe in the morning Swedish folklore, Tomte is the elves play pranks on people and wearing a crown of can- Christmas gnome who lives DENMARK during Christmastime. On dles (or a safer substitute). in the forest. Tomte is the Children help decorate Christmas Eve, many Dan- She serves her parents buns Swedish equivalent to Santa their family Christmas trees ish families leave some rice and coffee or mulled wine. Claus and hands out gifts. in the weeks leading up to pudding or porridge for the Christmas trees are set The “Merry Christmas” greet- the Christmas holiday in Den- elves, so they do not play up usually a couple of days ing in Swedish is God Jul. mark, which formally begins any pranks on them. In the before Christmas and dec- Cities across Sweden offer on December 23. The cele- morning, the children are orated with flowers such as all types of holiday events bration kicks off with a meal delighted to find that the poinsettia, called julstjärna in to take part in. In the capital that includes a traditional porridge has been consumed Swedish, red tulips, and red and biggest city, Stockholm, cinnamon rice pudding while they slept. or white amaryllis. there is a live version of the called grod. The meals on Christmas On Christmas Eve, or popular Swedish holiday Santa Claus is known as Eve and Christmas Day are Julafton, Swedes celebrating show Christmas Calendar Julemanden, which trans- Christmas attend church series, with a different perfor- lates to “the Yule Man.” He services. They return home is said to arrive on a sleigh CHRISTMAS: Cont. On Page 13 Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 13
S To really experience Danish Christmas, the best way is to eat and drink your way through it. CHRISTMAS: From Page 12 Danes love their food, and the Nordic cuisine is on everyone’s lips these days, so why not add a quite elaborate. On Christmas Eve, Christmas twist to it and dig in. Danes have a Christmas dinner usu- the holiday season. Except to see figure of Sinterklass, modern-day Santa ally consisting of duck or goose, red snow-covered trees, twinkling lights, Claus. Like the cookies traditionally left cabbage, and caramelized potatoes. and a sprawling Christmas market set- for Santa Claus today, it was customary The traditional dessert is a light rice up across the park. to leave a bowl of rice porridge for the pudding with whipped cream and Nisse. chopped almonds. This rice pudding NORWAY Paying homage to their Viking usually contains one whole almond, Christmas Eve is the main event in heritage, Norweigians recognize the and whoever finds it wins a treat of Norway. For many, it includes church tradition of the Julebukk, in Norwe- chocolate or marzipan. services and last-minute shopping for gian which translates to “Yule Goat.” On Christmas morning, Danish cup- gifts. At 5 p.m., the churches ring their Today it is symbolized by a goat figu- cakes called ableskiver are traditionally Christmas bells. Most people have a rine made out of straw, created at the served. For Christmas Day lunch, cold dinner of ribbe (pork ribs) or lutefisk (a beginning of December, and often cuts and different types of fish usually cod dish) at home, so restaurants are used as a Christmas ornament. The Yule make up the meal. On Christmas night, usually closed. Christmas Eve dessert Goat’s oldest representation is that of families gather around Christmas tree, usually includes gingerbread or ris- Thor’s magical goats, which would lead exchange presents, and sing carols. To engrynsgrot, a hot rice pudding, and him through the night sky. The Yule say, “Merry Christmas,” in Danish greet mulled wine, glogg, for the grownups. Goat would protect the house during others by saying Glaedelig Jul. Then Christmas gifts are opened after Yuletide. It had been Norse tradition Christmas markets pop up all over dinner. to sacrifice a goat to the gods and the the country during the winter, and the Norway has a mischievous Christ- accompanying spirits during the time best are in major cities like Copenha- mas elf called Nisse. This folkloric crea- span between the Winter Solstice and gen, Aarhus, Fyn, and Ribe. Tivoli Gar- ture is personified as a white-bearded, dens, the famous Copenhagen theme red wearing spirit of the winter solstice. CHRISTMAS: Cont. On Page 14 park, is completely remade during Today, he has been integrated with the Page 14 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Winter 2019
WEATHER: From Page 13 the New Year. The Yule Goat was a good luck charm for the new year to come. As with other Scandina- vian countries, Christmas markets and concerts can be found in most cities across Norway during the winter months. One extra special event is the world’s largest gingerbread town, located in Bergen, Norway’s sec- ond-largest city. Pepperkake- byen, as the delicious town is called, is open to visitors each year from mid-No- vember through the end of December. “Merry Christmas” in Norwegian is Gledelig Jul or God Jul. S Even though December is one of the darkest months in Iceland, the city lights up with Christ- FINLAND mas lights and you can see Christmas decorations everywhere. As a bonus, there are a couple cosy Finland shares some of Christmas markets in Reykjavík you can visit from the end of November till the end of December. its Scandinavian Christmas traditions with its neighbor other Hyvää Joulua, or “Merry with not much daylight at all, a gift. Bad children can ex- Sweden, such as the cele- Christmas,” weeks before but the Northern Lights may pect to receive a potato. bration of St. Lucia’s Day, but Christmas Day and continue be visible in the north of the Shops are open until has many of its own holiday to do so for nearly two weeks country. 11:30 p.m. on Christmas traditions as well. after the official holiday. Iceland has many age-old Eve, and many Icelanders On Christmas Eve most If you are in Helsinki, traditions during Christmas- attend midnight mass. The Finns who celebrate Christ- then Aleksanterinkatu is the time, including the arrival of main Christmas celebration mas attend mass and pay a principal street for holiday 13 Icelandic Santa Clauses. takes place on Christmas Eve, visit to a sauna to get puri- festivities. The entire lane is The origin of these Santas is including the gift exchange. fied. Many Finnish families lit up with bright Christmas centuries old, and each has a To express “Merry Christmas” also visit cemeteries to lights, and the many shops name, character, and role. in Icelandic, greet others by remember their lost loved invite people to come in Known as jolasveinar, or saying Gleoileg jol. ones. and escape the cold. The the “Yuletide Lads,” the San- If you’re looking for Between 5 p.m. and Stockmann department store tas are the children of Gryla, a holiday activities in Iceland, 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve, located on the same street mean old woman who drags the Christmas market in Christmas dinner is usually unveils their much-anticipat- off naughty children and Hafnarfjörður is one of the served. The feast may include ed holiday window display supposedly boils them alive. largest and most popular, oven-baked ham, rutabaga each year also, attracting Her husband, Leppaluoi, is and is about a 20-minute casserole, beetroot salad, and Finns from across Helsinki not quite as mean. In the drive outside of the capital similar Scandinavian holiday and neighboring suburbs to modern era, these characters city, Reykjavík. Apart from foods. Santa Claus usually come and see it. have been softened a bit to shopping, there are also hot visits houses on Christmas be less frightening. food and drinks, horse-drawn Eve to give presents to those ICELAND Children in Iceland put carriage rides, and live music who have been good. The Icelandic Christmas shoes in their windows from to keep you entertained. Christmas in Finland is not season lasts 26 days. It’s December 12 until Christmas just a one or two-day affair. during the darkest time of Eve. If they have been good, Finns start wishing each year for that part of the world one of the jolasveinar leaves Winter 2019 • Scandinavian Heritage News • Page 15 10 Ways to Master the Danish Art of Hygge In Your Home
By Danielle Braff and stress-busting) and add far away from consumerism,” SCRUB A DUB DUB MentalFloss.com some greenery to your home. Edberg says. Instead of stock- “Not many people think Long, dark winter nights Can’t keep plants alive? Add ing up on mass-produced about the bathroom when and stormy weather have us natural materials like leath- items, decorate your home they’re making their home craving a roaring fire, fluffy er, stone, and wood to your with furniture and accents cozier, but think about slippers, and a soft blanket to space. that are meaningful to you. making a more relaxing en- curl up under. As the Danes Edberg says this could mean vironment for the next time TURN OFF THE LIGHTS would say, we want to get the items were given to you you take a soothing bath,” Unless you have a dim- hygge. Hygge (pronounced as gifts, you purchased them Tanner says. You can do this mer, overhead lights are hoo-gah) is the Danish on your travels, or they are by lighting a few candles and often too bright to create the concept of coziness and antiques with a rich history. integrating essential oils and homey feeling you’re after. So intimacy—as one tea com- bath products with relaxing turn off that light and rely on KEEP THE HOT DRINKS pany puts it, hygge is “taking scents into your routine. Big, table lamps instead, Tanner COMING pleasure from the soothing, fluffy towels and a quality says. Tanner recommends mak- ordinary, and inexpensive bathmat are also great addi- ing your tea kettle your new things in life”—and it has tions. STREAMLINE best friend. She digs Hoogly made its way across the Cozy spaces might be Tea, a British company that GET SMART Atlantic. To achieve optimal small, but that doesn’t makes hygge their business Technology is your secret hygge in your own home, mean they’re cluttered. Kate by selling creative tea blends weapon in making your grab a warm drink, put on Marengo, founder and presi- such as Vanilla Chai, Around home cozy, says Carly Pokor- your chunkiest sweater, and dent of Interior Chicago, says the Fire, and Marzipan. Not a nowski Moeller, owner and check out the below tips. you can’t relax in spaces that tea person? Cocoa or coffee registered interior designer are overwhelming. So before HEAT THINGS UP will also do the trick. at Unpatterned in Chicago. you add your hygge touches A flickering fire can in- Wireless speakers can help (candles, a throw, books), SET THE TABLE stantly make any space feel you use music to set the take a page from Marie Kon- Time with family or intimate. If you don’t have right mood throughout your do’s book and strip away any friends, especially while shar- a fireplace in your home, home. And, Pokornows- extraneous items that don’t ing a great meal, is essential create that warm and cozy ki Moeller says, adding a bring you joy. to the hygge philosophy, vibe by arranging candles total smart home system so you’ll need a great din- of different sizes and shapes (like Nest) can allow you to FIND SOMETHING SOFT ing room table. Danes love into a cluster, says Kayleigh change the temperature Texture is a big part of a great wooden table and Tanner, owner of the U.K.- or turn off the lights in any hygge, says Pia Edberg, Van- hand-crafted chairs (many based blog Hello Hygge. “My room right from your smart- couver-based author of The will pass down an Arne favorites are Yankee Candles phone. This way you can stop Cozy Life. Edberg suggests Jacobsen or a Hans Wegner in scents like cinnamon and running from room to room surrounding yourself with chair from generation to gen- vanilla, but a bag of cheap to adjust and can just be soft items like knitted fleece eration), but any dining room tea lights will do the trick just present. throw blankets, fluffy pillows, set will do—the important as well,” Tanner says. shag rugs, and comfy furni- part is spending mealtimes BRING THE OUTDOORS ture. together, says Helen Russell, INSIDE FIND A STORY author of The Year of Living Take a cue from nature “There are studies about Danishly. (which is innately relaxing how hygge in Denmark shies THE HEART of a community is News from Denmark, Finland, reflected Iceland, Norway & Sweden. In 4 issuesper year English in the ONLY $24 quality See samples FirstCare and order online: of its Walk-In Clinic scandpress.com Call free parks. Open Seven Days a Week 1-855-675-7226 400 Burdick Expressway E, Minot MINOT PARK DISTRICT Creative Printing 420 Third Avenue SW • 857-4136 trinityhealth.org 852-5552
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