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THE VASA STAR summer 2018 VASASTJÄRNAN Publication of The Vasa of America

Newly elected Grand Lodge Officers, seated, L-R: Vice Grand Secretary Marlene Patient, Vice John Hanright, Grand Master Bjorkner, Grand Treasurer Keith Hanlon, Grand Secretary Joanie Graham. Standing, L-R: EBM-Midwest Region Tom Cleveland, EBM-Eastern Region Debbie Larsson, EBM-Canada Donna Englund, EBM- Connie Grön and EBM-Western Region Ed Netzel. THE GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE dear vasa members, the convention from all of you! least eight years, and they possess It has been a few weeks since I was The planning and execution of the much usable Vasa knowledge for the elected your Grand Master for the convention was excellent. Many Good of the Order. We are proud to ensuing term. I was honored with thanks go to Victoria Fedor- Thurman, announce the Order is officially on all a “send off” party by NJ District 6 Chairperson of the convention and her three major social media platforms! Vasa Park Trustees, and I have begun District 12 member committees. From Please share and join Facebook, Twit- forwarding messages to my Grand hotel , tours and food, we ter and Instagram to help increase our Lodge Deputies with updates for could have not asked for anything bet- social media presence. For additional everyone. I am anxious to pass to all ter. I would especially like to thank the questions contact our Social Media of you pertinent information from the many Swedish members attending the Director Chad Widman, chadwid- GL Convention. The Delegates to the convention, and I am looking forward [email protected]. convention were hosted and toasted to attending theirs in May 2019! Shortly after the convention First and worked very hard on your behalf The composition of the GL Execu- Lady (Nancy) and I headed off to to update and revise according to the tive Board is outstanding. Of the nine the famous Jamestown Scandinavian actions and recommendations sent to of them, I have known eight for at / continued on p4

National Archive News Grand Lodge News Scholarship winners Sweden America Day The archive’s board member Sten Hult Vasa members from Canada, Sweden and The Grand Lodge announces the winners Calmare Nyckel No. 628 celebrates honored - now Member Emeritus - at the the U.S. meet at the 39th Grand Lodge of this year’s with information on Sverige-Amerika-Dagen 2018 at Kalmar Grand Lodge Convention / p3 Convention in Sacramento, CA / p4 how to apply for next year / p6 Castle, Kalmar Sweden in June / p15 archive news » p3 grand lodge news » p4 gl scholarships » p6 district lodge news » p9 local lodge news » p10 swedish news » p15 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018

EDITOR’S MESSAGE issue highlights

It is always Help them feel involved, included and an honor to be important. Many of them brought us asked to write to where we are today. A lot of their the editor’s mes- – and much more – is part of sage, and this is the Vasa National Archive, which was perfect timing, discussed by Archivist Kathy Cuff at as I was asked to the convention. So many improvements participate in the and exhibitions, and a lot of community Grand Lodge involvement have been developing at Convention in Sacramento in July. I Bishop Hill. Make your plans for a field can’t stop thinking and talking about trip to visit! Pancake breakfast at summer resort it. It is hard to decide where to start to I joined the non-delegates on sev- Sveadal with Svea No. 348 drew the express the feelings for such a grand eral interesting trips, too: a day in Lake usual vintage automobiles / p11 event, and I want to thank you for the Tahoe (where I talked with Swede Kjell opportunity to be there on behalf of Vasa Hansson and found out he is the “mor- Star. Thank you to the Executive Board far” of Maja Larsson who stayed with and all the Delegates for their hard me for a few weeks some years ago); work while still enjoying everyone’s the Sierra Nevada Country and company and having fun together. And wine tasting in Sonoma; we were at the super kudos to Grand Secretary Joanie Railroad Museum in Sacramento on the Graham and Chairman/Convention 4th of July and had a beautiful dinner, “Snow” in Arizona as DL 21 convenes. / p9 Midsummer court with Kern River member Host Victoria Fedor-Thurman for put- by Smörgåsbandet and fireworks. Bailey Reynolds at Vasa Park in Agoura. /p14 ting together such a spectacular event. I was most impressed with all the I arrived on the fifth day and attended friends I made. It was rewarding to meet the Membership Seminar. At one time people I only knew by name (from your the vasa star Vasa had 70,000 members; it’s now submissions to Vasa Star), but now I about 8,800, losing 4% every year. We have your face to go with it. And es- Summer 2018 Vol. 110, No. 3, Serial 850 continue to ask each member to bring pecially so many of you from Sweden. Published by The Vasa Order of America in one new member; this could double To all of you readers of Vasa Star, www.vasaorder.com the membership. Host interesting keep those articles and pictures com- HEADQUARTERS programs, even with other community ing. Just remember: Include only a little Grand Secretary / Joan Graham groups, and events with lots of food. detail on past events – let the pictures 5838 San Jose Avenue Richmond, CA 94804 Publicize your events on social media talk – and then include more details Grand Lodge Convention in California. / p5 (510) 526 5512 – or magnets for the fridge and car with in promoting your upcoming events (Victoria, main organizer with Ulrika, photographer) [email protected] annual events may make other people to maximize atten- ask about them. Ask friends if they had dance. And help your Grand Master / Art Bjorkner their DNA tested and if they have some lodge bring in the 31 Vasa Drive, Remember the Vasa Hackettstown NJ 07840-5314 Scandinavian blood, that could get the next new member! Phone: (973)426-0776 conversation going. “Steal” ideas from Archives [email protected] other lodges (read about them in every In truth and unity, liza ekstrand, when you are making a memorial Editor / Amanda Olson Robison issue!) and celebrate together with other managing editor Managing Editor / Liza Ekstrand Scandinavian friends, i.e. attend a Syt- donation tende Mai parade. Send your donations to: Send articles, photos & memorials to: We must also remember our exist- Vasa National Archives The Vasa Star PO Box 13331 ing membership. Visit our sick and PO Box 101, Bishop Hill, IL 61419 Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 elders who are unable to participate. [email protected]

Circulation Manager / Joan Graham For our next issue: 5838 San Jose Avenue Submit Material to Vasa Star PO Box 13331 Richmond, CA 94804 [email protected] (510) 526 5512 Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 By Nov. 1 [email protected] Send address changes and bottom section of application for new members to Joan Graham.

Membership Chairman / Ed Netzel DONATE to the & Scholarship Funds 2576 Old Kemare Rd, Lincoln, CA 95648 [email protected] Send your donations to: Vasa Order of America, Joan Graham, Grand Secretary Advertising 5838 San Jose Ave., Richmond, CA 94804 Call 1.800.827.9333, ask for Vasa Star rates [email protected] Layout & production: Nordstjernan, Swedish News, Inc.

page 2 WWW.VASAORDER.COM Summer 2018 / THE VASA STAR ARCHIVES NEWS A message from the president of Vasa National Archives

Dear Vasa Brothers and Sisters, his wife Nancy have offered significant traveled from across the U.S., Canada donation this year. Congratulations to Sten Hult who philanthropic support to the VNA. and Sweden to attend the convention. Thank you to the Grand Lodge Of- was honored at the Grand Lodge They frequently visit and participate Kathy has spent the past three years ficers and Delegates who elected me Convention as Vasa National Archives in events, volunteer and network on categorizing, cleaning and properly to serve another four years on the Ar- Board Member Emeritus. Sten has behalf of the Archives. I look forward storing collectibles. Additional storage chive Board and to the current Archive demonstrated an exceptionally high to continuing to work with Sten on the is our greatest challenge. Please contact Board who elected me as President. I level of interest and care for the Ar- Archives Board in his new role. Kathy Cuff at vasaarchivist@gmail. will continue to do my best to support chives since its origin, under multiple Archivist Kathy Cuff and I presented com if you wish more information and improve the VNA and keep all terms. He has served with a new video of the Archives and the regarding specific storage needs and members of the Order informed of distinction and engaged in major vol- village of Bishop Hill, IL during the about items you can donate. the activities and progress made at the unteer and advocacy activities during Grand Lodge Convention in July. The The Archives is an important branch Archives. his service. Sten has served the Vasa video showed the progress made during of our Order and member support of Order in many Local and District No the last four years. Future programs and our annual fundraisers is extremely im- in truth and unity, bill lundquist 8 offices and was elected and served as exhibits were presented and instruction portant. Thank you to all members who pgm and president Grand Lodge Board Member from the was given regarding digital access to have generously given to the Heritage vna Midwest and served many terms on the all collections. This was Kathy’s first Fundraiser that is under way. It’s not Vasa National Archives Board. Sten and opportunity to meet Vasa members who too late for you to make this important Greetings from the Vasa National Archives In 1981, an interesting collection Cockell joined Mayflower #445 in came into the Vasa National Archives: 1963 and died in 1982. Augusta A. Berglund’s purse, immigra- My favorite part of the collection is Christmas Greetings tion paperwork and a hair clipping with Augusta A. Berglund’s simple Send your lodge or personal a . The records about this leather purse with the lock of blonde donation don’t reveal much informa- hair and red ribbon. We have no in- Christmas greetings to tion on Augusta Berglund, but we can formation on who the hair belonged [email protected] piece together some of her life from to or if Augusta planned to weave ‘Vasa Star’ other records. it into an item at some point. It was Augusta was born around 1875 and common to take locks of hair before PO Box 13331 lived in Lannerberga, Kalmar, Sweden. leaving for a long trip when you didn’t Milwaukee WI 53213-0331 One inch greeting - $10 Her parents were Isaac and Anna H. expect to return. This artifact leads to Larger greetings - $25 Berlund. At the age of 19, Adolf U. conversations with visitors on what to Berglund paid for her passage from bring on long trips and how you would Submit your Gothenberg to New York and Boston. Augusta Berglund’s leather purse. remember places or people left behind. greeting no She signed an emigrant’s contract hours with her grandchild. later than with Scandia Linen in New York on The Head of Household status passed in truth and unity, Nov. 1 kathy cuff, manager-archivist March 23, 1894, shortly after arrival to George in 1930. Passing Head of vasa national archives and married Otto Westlund on Nov. 14, Household to adult children is a fairly 1896. Their first child Flossie Amalia common practice in Sweden when arrived, and their second child, Rich- the parents begin to seek retirement. ard, was born three years later in 1900. George supported the family as a radio Augusta worked as a domestic to help repairman. The 1930 census shows Sjölunden make ends meet in 1910 while Otto Otto continuing to work as a machinist worked as a machinist for a piano com- and Richard working as a truck driver Language Camp Awards pany then at a wire company by 1920. for a chain store. Otto died in 1936 at Flossie obtained a job as a book- the age of 70. The Grand Lodge is pleased to announce this year’s Sjölunden keeper for a trucking company around Otto’s death did not break up the Language Camp awards. 1920. She met George William Cockell family unit. Census records from 1940 Bertha Kalm Sjölunden Language Camp Awards were during this time. George worked as a show George, Flossie, their daughter awarded to: Anna Benson, DL #12; Ava Tomky, DL #8; Me- bookkeeper and later in radio repair Loraine, Flossie’s mother Augusta lissa Pearson, DL #8; Kristine Pearson, DL #8; Anya Hess, DL and sales. Flossie and George married and brother Richard living together. #12; Dmitriy Hess, DL #12; Clayton Lekander, DL #8; Katelyn in Alton, NH on September 7, 1922. George supported the family and Ogonoski, DL #1 The newlyweds lived with Augusta and Richard helped by working as a car Applications for next year’s awards MUST be postmarked Otto for the first few years. Flossie’s mechanic. Flossie and Augusta main- February 10, 2019. An application online will be available at daughter was born in 1924 and we can tained the home and raised Loraine. www.vasaorder.com and in the next issue of the Vasa Star. assume that Augusta spent many happy Sadly, Richard died in 1953. Flossie

WWW.VASAORDER.COM page 3 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018 GRAND LODGE NEWS

Highlights of the Grand Lodge Meeting

Vasa members from Canada, Swe- 2. Distinguished Service Awards Lith, and Past Grand Lodge Activities den and the U.S. gathered in Sacra- were presented to four members nom- Director Baxter Swaffar. mento, California to attend the 39th inated by their districts in recognition quadrennial convention of the Grand of their dedicated service to their 5. 120 Motions and Officer’s Rec- Lodge - Vasa Order of America. It was districts and lodges. Three presenta- ommendations were discussed and an amazing week of greeting long- tions will be made by the recipients’ voted on. Of the 87 motions approved, time friends, making new friends, home districts. I don’t want to spoil 21 were referred to the incoming GL visiting interesting and historic sites the surprise so won’t name them here. Executive Board for action. You can throughout northern California, and One recipient was in attendance and discuss details on specific motions for the Grand Lodge Delegates and a very surprised Birgitta Kellgren with your district’s Grand Lodge Officers, making decision that will thanked the gathering for this well- Delegate or contact me (GS Joanie at affect the future of the Vasa Order of deserved recognition. [email protected]). Here are some of America. Your District Delegate can the decision made: answer any questions you may have 3. Honorary Life Membership, a. Bylaw changes made by a District about specific motions discussed at Grand Lodge was presented to Grand Lodge in session become effective Joanie Graham, Grand Secretary the meeting. While it is not possible Treasurer Keith Hanlon, Grand Secre- on approval by the District Lodge, to list every action and motion ap- tary Joanie Graham, and Webmaster provided they are consistent with the g. When voting on a new member, proved, here are some highlights: Robert Anderson in recognition for Constitution. A copy of the approved now 1/3 No votes are required to their exceptional service to the VOA bylaw/s are to be sent to the Grand reject an application, rather than 3 1. The Grand Lodge extends many and the Grand Lodge. Secretary immediately following the No votes. thanks and appreciation to DL Gold- close of the district meeting. h. Incoming GL Executive Board en Gate #12 Host Committee Chair 4. The Grand Lodge Emblem was b. The revised Constitution and will establish an anti-harassment Victoria Fedor-Thurman and her draped, and obituaries were read hon- the Record of Proceeding will be policy. committee for a well run and very oring Past Grand Master George Nord, distributed by electronic means (email i. The scholarship for Elder Hostel successful convention. Thanks also to Past Grand Lodge Board Members attachment) rather than printed, to all has been reinstated, EH now known District Master Sven-Ove Westberg, Gunnar Mossberg, Bertil Ericsson District and Local Lodge Secretaries, as Road Scholar. the District Executive Board, and the and Lennart Johansson, current Grand Grand Lodge Deputies and Grand j. Quorum for the District Executive many hard working Vasa members Lodge Deputy to the Central Region Lodge Officers. All members may Board and the Grand Lodge Executive throughout the District for their con- J Ben R Friberg, Past Grand Lodge request a copy by email attachment Board is set at “greater than 65% of all tributions to this successful endeavor. Historian Robert Illig, Past Grand from any of these listed or from the voting members of the board.” Lodge Cultural Director-Sweden Gun Grand Secretary. k. Local Lodges are to actively en- c. The ritual has been updated to be courage and promote the election of more welcoming to non-members and younger members to be delegates to The Grand Master’s Message adds the Membership Chairman to the District Meeting and to encourage the Installation of Officers ceremony. them to run for district office. (continued from page 1) A revised Ritual will be printed and l. Grand Lodge Executive Board sent to the local lodges. will expand presence on social media; d. The application procedure for seek better Google search response; Festival in New York. We enjoyed the The new Vice Old Age and Benefit requests has friendship, music, food and exhibits. Grand Lodge Sec- update Wikipedia article on the Vasa changed. The application is now Order. Don Sandy of Thule Lodge #127 did retary is Marlene handled by the Local Lodge Chairman a great job organizing everything. Patient, marlenepa- m. The newly designed Vasa web- and Secretary and then sent directly site is very close to being launched. If there are any festivals or exhibits [email protected]. to the Grand Secretary. Approval in your area, endeavor to join in and Contact her for jew- n. In order to promote the advance- and signatures by the District Lodge ment of youth, one Grand Lodge have a “Vasa information” booth/ elry, pins, new mem- are no longer required. Applications table. We cannot gain members with- ber packets (free) Executive Board member will be are available from the Local Lodge appointed to focus on youth issues. out sharing our enthusiasm for the and other paper products. New mem- Secretary or the Grand Secretary. The order! Have brochures, applications bership applications are available on- o. A new Cultural Leaders’ hand- “matrix” (based on age and years of book was distributed to each delegate and pictures of your events. Also, line to download. In accordance with membership for determining amount suggest at least one attending member an approved motion at the convention, to take to their District Cultural of the grant) is still in effect. Leader. wear the traditional costume. If you do no recommendation is now required e. Grand Lodge Delegates must now not have a local brochure, download for membership, and the wording has p. All District Historians are re- be elected before January 1 of the year quested to provide material to the the GL brochure shown on the GL been deleted. of the Grand Lodge Convention. web Membership page, and go to the Grand Lodge Historian, Alice Iverson, in truth and unity, f. The number of Local Lodge Audi- for inclusion in the 125th Anniversary Membership Guide and see a sample art bjorkner,grand master tors is reduced from three to two. of a local district brochure. Book now in production. Please make page 4 WWW.VASAORDER.COM Summer 2018 / THE VASA STAR

sure your District and Local Lodges are included in this permanent record of the 125th year (2021) of the Vasa Order of America. A list of the motions, along with the action taken on each motion, has been sent to each lodge, showing which were “Approved,” “Rejected” and “Moot.” Your Lodge Secretary has received this report and will share it at an upcoming meeting.

6. Great News: There will be no increase in Grand Lodge Assessments. Assessment remains at $20.75 per member. Delegates and officers gather for a group photo at the 39th Grand Lodge Meeting in Sacramento, CA.

7. Newly elected Grand Lodge Of- ficers are: Grand Master Art Bjorkner, Vice Grand Master John Hanright, Grand Secretary Joanie Graham, Grand Treasurer Keith Hanlon, Vice Grand Secretary Marlene Patient, EBM-Eastern Region Debbie Lars- son, EBM-Midwest Region Tom Cleveland, EBM-Western Region Ed Netzel, EBM-Canada Donna Englund and EBM-Sweden Connie Grön.

8. Newly elected Archives Board DM Sven-Ove Westberg welcomes the group. Members are: Börjesson, Bill Lundquist, Bruce Elfvin and Karen Snowberg.

submitted by joanie graham, Lunch in Gold Country. grand secretary

Organizer par excellence Victoria Fedor- Thurman with FLOV in a borrowed hat.

Groupies from DL No. 6 celebrate Art Bjorkner’s election as Grand Master. Right: Charlotte Börjesson and Lee-Anne Hurtubise show their moves.

Most animated meeting minute taker and scribe ever, Carl Hurtubise.

Photography: Ulrika Friesen (nee Kellgren) A (now) relaxed immediate PGM Tore Kellgren. Kevin DeFeo of DL No. 6 joins the entertainment, Smörgåsbandet, for a riff on the ukulele.

WWW.VASAORDER.COM page 5 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018 WINNERS OF THE 2018 SCHOLARSHIPS

The Grand Lodge is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s or Vocational School Scholarship Awards.

Alexandra attends of Alabama majoring in . She is in a Fast-Track MSOT program and on the Dean’s List. An outstanding dancer since the age of 4, she now performs at all the univer- sity football games as a “Golden Girl.” Allie organized Sveaborg #446 Vasa Boone Denton Club in Alabama, and is the Chairman Elise Land Carl Widen Lodge No. 743 and Cultural Leader; she is seeking a Arlington Lodge No. 62 Central Region volunteer to teach Swedish. During her DL New Jersey No. 6 Alexandra Bjorkner Ellis Hilner Scholarship, $1500 spare time, Allie volunteers with out- Grand Lodge Scholarship - $1500 Sveaborg Lodge No. 446 Boone will attend Abilene Christian reach programs for disabled children, Elise graduated from Mt. Olive DL New Jersey No. 6 University to study micro-biomedical participates in local hospital programs High School in 2018, but she will Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 . He has been a Vasa member and enjoys the beach. be returning to her native Norway to since 2016. Boone is a member of the study education and music at Stav- National Honor Society has received ern Folkehoyskole. Elise has been many community awards for service. a very active member of Vasa since He was in the top 10 percent of his class, 2015. She has been a participant and received awards in football, baseball instructor in both Skansen and Va- and track, was Class Secretary in 2017 sastjarnan folk dance groups. Elise and Class President in 2016. In his is a member of the National Honor spare time, Boone enjoys landscaping, Society, is a member and performer reading and historical preservation. His in the Arlington Angels singing goal is to become an ophthalmologist. group, and is active in many music Elizabeth Cleveland Harrison Ogrentz extra-curricular groups. Elise’s goal Viljan Lodge No. 349 Nordik Folk Lodge No. 761 is to teach English in Norway. DL Lake Michigan No. 8 DL Lake Michigan No. 8 Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Elizabeth is majoring in inter- Harrison is studying multimedia national and comparative politics /music composition and minoring in Parisian studies at Western Michigan University. at American University of Paris. He has been member of Nordikids Eventually she plans on working in Children’s Club since age 5, is a the human rights field. Elizabeth has member of Nordik Folk Lodge and been actively involved with Vasa and is currently Assistant Master of Vasa Park her whole life; both her Ceremonies. Harrison is involved Heidi Abrahamsen parents have been District Masters. in community theater and does odd Olympic Lodge No. 235 Elizabeth is a member of the Na- jobs helping the local elderly. After DL New York No. 4 Catherine Johnson tional Honor Society, is a founding college Harrison plans to work in the Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Viljan Lodge No. 349 member of the High School FIDM field of sound and music Heidi is majoring in DL Lake Michigan No. 8 Fashion Club, and the National composition for video games, film at New York Institute of Technol- Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Technical Honor Society. and television. ogy. She is a member of the National Catherine has been a Vasa member Honor Society and Art Honor Society. since 2017. Since age 7, she has been She joined Barnklubben Elsa Rix #1 a member of a Swedish Children’s Edith Gauch / in 2001 (age 3) and became a Vasa Choir and the Children’s Club, and Klinglof Scholarship, $1500 member at 14. She has participated now mentors younger members. Greta is from Bethlehem, PA and in many Nordic events including serv- Catherine is a member of the Na- is studying engineering at Penn State ing as Miss Sweden Day (2017-18), tional Honor Society, has served as University. A Vasa member since performing at Midsummer in Battery Yearbook Editor and has been active 2016, Greta has helped her lodge Park City NY and local lodge/District in her church mission work. She with the famous Scandinavian Fest events. Heidi is on NYIT’s Cross plans to study education / Spanish / and has served as Lucia for the an- Country Track Team and is a member speech therapy at Illinois State Uni- of the Student Athlete Advisory Com- Greta Amidon nual pageant. She is a member of the versity this fall and hopes of become mittee Board. Viking Lodge No. 735 local Belt Academy and helps a teacher or speech pathologist. DL New Jersey No. 6 out in her church. page 6 WWW.VASAORDER.COM Summer 2018 / THE VASA STAR

Jessica Samuelson is also a volunteer for Skandia’s Skandia Lodge No. 549 Children’s Summer Camp. Jessica DL Alberta No. 18 has served her local lodge as Cultural Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Leader since 2014 and helps plan Jessica is studying digital media- the Midsummer celebration held at IT web design and development at Alberta’s Vasa Park. She is active Northern Alberta Institute of Tech- in sports and serves as a DJ in her nology, where she is on the Dean’s spare time. Heidi Ekborg-Ott List. A 12-year Vasa member, she Facklan Lodge No. 248 Central Region Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Heidi will be studying interna- tional relations at Simpson College. Heidi has been on the Honor Roll, Dean’s List, and was a foreign ex- change student through the Rotary The Grand Lodge Youth Exchange in Japan and Italy. She speaks Swedish and has been 2019 Scholarship and Essay Contest a Vasa member since 2017 but has been active in Vasa for many The Grand Lodge of the Vasa Order of America offers scholarships to member years in the Lucia and Midsummer celebrations and also in the Danish students attending or planning to attend institutions of higher education. Brotherhood. Applicants for the above scholarships must have become a Vasa member to February 15, 2018. Applications are available at the Vasa website until January 15, 2019. To be eligible, the following items must be postmarked no later than February 15, 2019 to be considered. 1. Completed application with enclosures MUST be postmarked no later than 15 February 2019. 2. Complete “OFFICIAL” transcripts of grades through the first half of the senior year for high school students or fall semester of current academic year for college students. 3. Current passport photo headshot (at least 4”x6”) or email a digital headshot photo to [email protected] 4. A letter of recommendation from applicant’s Local Lodge with date of initiation. 5. Letters of recommendation from two personal references dated 2019. 6. A letter of reference from your Dean, Principal, Teacher or Counselor, dated 2019. 7. An original, typed essay, not to exceed 1,000 words. Cannot have been submitted in prior years. Please put in one envelope if possible Katie Spaberg Choose an essay subject from the following list: Evening Star Lodge No. 426 1. What do you consider to be a role youth can and should play in Vasa? DL Pacific SW No. 15 2. If you have visited a Nordic Country, what was the most impressive element of your visit and why? Irma & Knute Carlson Scholar- 3. Explain the differences in Nordic music written by Sibelius, Kalle Jularbo and ABBA and which best suits you. ship - $1500 4. How would you describe how social programs differ from each other in the Nordic countries? Katie got her undergraduate de- 5. Describe the various economies of the Nordic countries and compare their success. gree at California State at North- 6. Within the Nordic countries, choose what is a most popular tourist attraction, and provide your thoughts on its ridge and continues her studies at appeal. Stanbridge University where she 7. What Nordic invention appeals to you as being most important to mankind and why? will graduate in 2019 as an occu- pational therapy assistant. She has AWARDS ARE PAYABLE TO the institution in which the student is enrolled or accepted for enrollment. To qualify been a Vasa member since 2011, for the College or Vocational School Scholarship, a student needs to be enrolled in an accredited vocational school participated in Sjölunden in 2010 or institution of higher learning, taking no less than six (6) credits per semester or eight (8) credits per quarter in and was a member of the local the academic year immediately following the . In extraordinary circumstances, on petition to the Grand Lodge lodge children’s club. Katie has been Scholarship Committee, payment may be postponed for a period not to exceed two years. working at a preschool and has been a volunteer in elementary school John Hanright, Vice Grand Master special ed programs. She hopes to 47 Scandia Rd specialize in pediatrics, working Hackettstown, NJ 07840 with young children with delayed Phone: (973) 262-2412 development/disabilities. E-mail: [email protected]

WWW.VASAORDER.COM page 7 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018

Winners of Grand Lodge Scholarship

District Lodge No. 8 Scholarship, $1500 Jennifer is attending Purdue Uni- versity, Calumet, studying general . After graduation in May 2019, she hopes to work in the museum industry or in advertising for a hospital system. Jennifer has Katarina Prasso Nicole Hopkins been a Vasa member since 2011 and Olympic Lodge No. 235 Monitor Lodge No. 218 Jennifer Pearson was very active in Nordikids # 208. DL New York No. 4 DL Golden Gate No. 12 Nordik Folk Lodge No. 761 She continues to assist with the club Bo & Sigrid Bjorling Scholarship, Oscar & Mildred Larson Scholar- DL Lake Michigan No. 8 and holds an office in the local lodge. $1500. Katarina is studying music ship, $1500 therapy and at Loyola Nicole will be studying english University in New Orleans. A Vasa and at Montana State member since 2012, Katarina has been University, Bozeman, for which she active in Barnklubben Elsa Rix #1 received a Presidential Scholarship. since 2000, and she was Miss Sweden A Vasa member since 2013, she Day in 2016. Katarina was Outstand- served as Guard and Lucia and did ing Orchestra Student and recognized other volunteer work with her local by the National Society of Leader- lodge. Nicole was on the Honor Roll ship and Success. She participates in with a Merit Award for U.S. History. her community and provides music Her goal is to become a writer or join therapy services locally. the Peace Corps.

Marissa Childs Matthew Anderson Svea Lodge No. 253 Nordic Lodge No. 611 DL Lake Michigan No. 8 DL Massachusetts No. 2 Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Einar & Edith Nilsson Scholar- Marissa is majoring in engineering ship, $1500 at Hanover College, with Matthew is studying history at Col- intentions of starting a career in lege of the Holy Cross and hopes to energy and environmental engineer- become a high school history teacher. Morgan Klintare ing. Marissa has been a member of He completed the prestigious “Si- Kevin Shoemaker Golden Valley Lodge No. 616 Vasa since 2014 and has participated lent Hero” Normandy Project and Drott Lodge No. 168 DL Pacific Southwest No. 15 in various lodge events including is a member of the National Honor DL Pennsylvania No. 9 Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 the Sankta Lucia Program. In high Society, Boy Scouts and Dean’s Grand Lodge Scholarship, $1500 Morgan is a student at school, she was awarded Women’s List. He received a Certificate of Kevin plans to attend University of Cuesta College. She is a licensed Soccer Top Scholar Athlete, Track Achievement from the Military Order Mary Washington for international phlebotomist, and her long-term Top Scholar and was in the band. of World Wars in 2016, among other studies and hopes to work with the U.S. goal is to be a cardiovascular sur- She was salutatorian of her gradu- prestigious awards including two government as a military attache. He geon. Morgan has been a Vasa ating class, president of the senior Presidential Awards for Academic received the Gold Award for German; member since 2015 and has served class, and a National Honor Society Excellence. Matthew became a mem- he studies Swedish, German and French. as Lodge Princess and was Lucia inductee. ber of Vasa in 2016. Kevin was designated Staff Sargeant for 3 years. She has received four in his JROTC unit and was on the drill national gold for rowing and Gladys & Russell Birtwistle Scholar- team; he joined Vasa in early 2017 and was on the U.S. National Women’s ship, $1500 assists his local lodge when he can. Team for two years. Sara plans to study at Loyola University, Chicago. She has been a Grand Lodge Scholarship - $1500 Vasa member since 2015, volunteering Trygve plans to study mechanical at local lodge parades and Midsummer engineering at Oregon State Uni- celebrations. She has been an Honor versity. He has been a Vasa member Roll student, is a member of the National since 2014 and participates in his Honor Society, the - and Math local lodge; he is a former member National Honors Societies. She has of the dance group. Trygve has been worked at the Canton Public Library, involved in soccer, baseball, swim- Sara Melendez helped found the Canton H.S. Writing ming and music, and was awarded Karl XII Lodge No. 103 Center, and coordinated Canton National Trygve Nordby Athlete of the Month from the Rotary DL Connecticut No. 1 Honor Society’s local involvement in Nobel Lodge No. 184 Club. His goal is to work for an auto Read Across America Day. DL Pacific Northwest No. 13 manufacturer. page 8 WWW.VASAORDER.COM Summer 2018 / THE VASA STAR DISTRICT LODGE NEWS DL No. 7 Minnesota The Biennial Convention of Minnesota Dis- trict No. 7 was held in May at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. After coffee, treats and time to greet everyone, District Master Kendra Nielsen opened the meeting and welcomed everyone with a brief history of VOA. The portion concluded with the installation of officers. MN District No. 7 is so thankful for retiring Vice District Secretary JoAnn Thoreen‘s years of dedicated service. Following the meeting an impressive memo- rial service was held where a candle was lit for each person who died, and carnation was placed in a vase as each name was read. Accor- dion music was provided by Carolyn Spargo. Carolyn also entertained with Scandinavian favorites during dinner. The day concluded with the presentation by Grand Lodge Deputy Biennial Convention of Minnesota District No. 7, including new officers: District MasterAntonio Spargo; Vice District Master Franklin Dietrich of a 40-year-pin to Leslie Kristin Johnson; Jr. Past District Master Kendra Nielsen; District Secretary Leslie Lien; Vice District Secretary Kendra Nielsen; Lien and a PDM emblem to Kendra Nielsen. District Treasurer Eunice Dietrich; District Cultural Leader Donna Mae Jensen; Supervisor of Children and Youth Carolyn submitted by eunice dietrich Spargo; District Historian/Membership Kari Dietrich Sifferle; and Auditor David Anderson. DL No. 21 ARIZONA DL No. 15 PACIFIC SW Members of District The inspiration to create a couple No. 21 met in Oro gnome homes came from a photo Valley Community that appeared in the December 2016 issue of Nordstjernan. Someone had Center for a one-day built a tiny restaurant that attracted convention in April. residents in Malmö, Sweden to stop, The meeting was lean over for a closer look, and smile. hosted by Lodge No Members of a couple local lodges 691 Tucson and in- and District 15 Cultural Chairwoman cluded the installation Nancy Kingston thought it would be fun to hide a few of their own at of new leadership and the bases of trees throughout Vasa a luncheon. Marilee Park in Agoura Hills, CA. They got Mansfield played her Vasa 691 Dancers (from left): Howard Yoffee, together at weekly workshops to Nyckelharpa and described the histo- Lorien Tershy, Gary Spinks, Nancy Bannister, create gnome homes, and soon more ry of her instrument. Then-GM Tore Phyllis Gracy, Sven Iverson, Denis Higbie, than 30 were constructed - and the and Gayle Anderson - new DM. Kellgren reported on administrative idea for the Gnome Home Scaven- ger Hunt evolved. Torsten Olsson matters and two special awards from Oak Leaf Lodge carved a troll were presented to GL Deputy Vito for our event, and searching for Torsten Olsson and his carved troll. Pantaleo and Pat Flippen of Scandia gnome homes hidden throughout for this. the park was so much fun A Southern Arizona BBQ was fol- that we have been asked lowed by Aurora Borealis Folk Band to make this an annual event. Our district would and Vasa 691 Folk Dancers with a like to challenge other Nordic beat. districts to make some submitted by sandra fogarty gnome homes and create a Gnome Home Scaven- Lunch event with Marilee Mansfield ger Hunt in their area. and her nyckelharpa Ladies making gnome homes: Britt Potter, Kerstin Wendt, submitted by nancy Birgitta Clark, Andrea Tabanelli, Delphine Trowbridge, kingston Dorothy Burns, Lisa Dackow, Mona Steffan, Pia Blommer and Nancy Kingston.

WWW.VASAORDER.COM page 9 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018 LOCAL LODGE NEWS North Star No. 106 Nobel Monitor No. 130

los angeles, ca / On July 12, 2018 Maidie Karling and a friend from NS member Evelyn Earls turned 100 Golden Valley Lodge Birgitta Clark. years old. Evelyn has been a member They celebrated with Champagne of NS for 87 years. In 1973 and 74 that we drank in water glasses and she was Chairman of the Lodge, presented her with flowers. A crown and has held many other positions. was put on her head and Evelyn She had five children of which two looked so beautiful. She was asked are still alive, seven grandchildren what is your family doing with you. and numerous grandchildren. On She said they are taking me to Pe- her birthday she received three visi- chunga (a casino), because that is tors in the morning, North Star’s V. where I want to go. Chairman Inga Francis, Secretary submitted by maidie karling

Harpersville Covered Bridge

cleveland, oh / In July, Nobel Monitor joined Svea No. 296 from Erie, PA for a lunch at a winery near Geneva, OH. The weather was clear, the music was enjoyable and fellowship was joyous for all 36 of us. Several visited the Harpersville Covered Bridge nearby.

submitted by gary larson Tegner No. 149

oakland, ca / Our members en- were pleased to have guests from joyed the Midsummer celebration lodges outside the Bay Area. Marilyn at Sveadal in June. As usual, Chair- Jackson (Framat Lodge) and James man Ken Weissenborn supervised Little played Swedish songs on their Celebrating with Evelyn: North Star’s V. Chairman Inga Francis, Secretary Maidie Karling and a friend from Golden Valley Lodge Birgitta Clark. the decoration of the Maypole and violins for a sing-a-long; James also raised it in its place. Dancing around played his Swedish bagpipe, and the pole was short because of the 100 Tegner lodge won the Kubb Tourna- degree heat. However, there were ment! We are looking forward to shady areas for picnic lunches and celebrating our 110th anniversary in the crowning of the Midsummer November. Details announced soon. Queen. In July, our lodge hosted submitted by ann tennis the Bay Area Tri-Lodge Picnic at Redwood Regional Park, and we Thule No. 127

jamestown/bemus point, ny / Spring ing and grounds were recently sold, was good to us with good weather, as the cost of maintaining them was meetings and gatherings, and recent- too great. Meetings will be held in a ly summer birthdays were celebrated local banquet hall. with a special Swedish decorated The annual Scandinavian Festival for the occasion. At the meet- was held in Jamestown, with much ing, Cultural Leader Sonja Pascatore music, dancing and plenty of Swed- told of an old Swedish called ish food — — the wonderful, three- Spettekaka, dating back 400 years. day event was enjoyed by many. We The ingredients included potato flour, hope everyone has a wonderful and beet sugar and lots of eggs. It was for colorful fall season. God dag to all. Three members were honored for their summer birthdays: Chairman Tom Eckberg, Past special occasions such as weddings Chairman & Past District Master Edwin Sandberg and Historian John Sipos were recognized submitted by john sipos by the lodge members. and births. The Thule Lodge build-

page 10 WWW.VASAORDER.COM LOCAL LODGE NEWS Summer 2018 / THE VASA STAR Linne No. 153

south bend, in / Member Chris picnic, and on October 7 we hope to Miller brought some beautiful hand- have a meeting on the Presentation on embroidered clothing from her Friends of The Viking Ship, which is grandmother to our May meeting. located in Geneva, IL. We will have a She wondered if anyone knew the presentation from Matt Baumgartner name of the red trimmed apron-like again in November, then December article of clothing, since it had the is our Christmas Party. dates 1874 on one pocket and 1914 We will miss member Becky Ferm on the other. (See the attached picture and wish her well on her move to Ft. and let us know if you know or what Myers. And congratulations and best it was used for.) Gordon Westergren wishes to members Beth Kemble and gave a report on the district conven- Ron Wood who are getting married tion. He won the handmade afghan at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on donated by Kathy Cuff, and Lori September 15. Cooper won the 1st place raffle drawing. In July we had our annual submitted by lorraine cooper Chris Miller brought hand-embroidered textiles - who knows anything about the apron? Svea No. 253 indianapolis, in / Our upcoming meetings are: October 7, 2018: Anne Shaw Kingery presents Carl Standlund and Lustron homes. On November 4, 2018: Dr. Michelle Facos, “A Special Feeling for Na- ture: from National Romanticism to MooseBooties.” And on November 8-10, 2018: International Festival. submitted by james hook

Right: Svea No. 253 celebrating Midsummer with special music and dance. Svea No. 348

san jose, ca / In April we celebrat- ed Valborgsmässoafton at the San Jose Odd Hall. The evening started with Swedish pea soup and hors d’oeuvres, and the night featured a traditional bonfire and two wonder- ful performances by the fabled Zaida Singers led by Zaida Hansson Binetti. The Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser was held at Sveadal, a real celebration since the park had been closed all of 2017 after heavy Svea Lodge No. 348 Valborgsmässoafton winter storms last year. The annual Bonfire event is famous for attracting vintage automobiles that make the windy drive into the Swedish summer resort tucked away in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains. The popular fun- draiser was well organized by Keith and Marylin Crawford. As always, everyone enjoyed a wonderful day.

submitted by jim melin Svea Lodge No. 348 Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast Vintage Cars at Sveadal

WWW.VASAORDER.COM page 11 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018 LOCAL LODGE NEWS Viljan No. 349 batavia, il / In March Reed Sheer arships. This was followed by a recap talked about his explorations in Ant- of this year’s district convention by arctica and the connection to tracking our delegates, and a small memo- climate change. We also welcomed rial service was held for Marilyn a new member, Kristina Karl, and in Thryselius. April membership was extended to Clayton LeKander taught us about her brother Christopher Karl, making the Swedish game, kubb. The game them both 3rd generation members was such a hit that we brought in their family. Also in April, the it back during our August picnic Lekanders provided us with Swedish and ice social! Many of our music and gave a demonstration on members have been preparing for Viljan Lodge trip to the the art of creating Dala horses; and 12 Scandinavian Day on September 9, Swedish-American Museum in of our members visited the Swedish during which our lodge will be sell- Andersonville. American Museum in Chicago and ing Swedish meatballs. Right: Julia Lekander ate lunch at Tre Kronor. During the demonstrating the art of May meeting three of our students submitted by kristina karl decorating Dala horses. were recognized for receiving schol- Mayflower No. 445 torrance, ca / Zlatan in LA! The be seated in the reserved Swedish soccer star Zlatan Ibrahi- sections. Section 103 is movich was recruited this spring reserved for Vasa members; ticket to play for LA Galaxy. Earlier, he prices are $25-$31 for front seats. was captain of the Swedish national After the game, Zlatan will visit with team and had a successful career in the Swedish contingent, and maybe the Netherlands, Italy, France and he will run up the stairs and celebrate the UK. September 29 has been des- with us when he scores. More infor- ignated Swedish Heritage Night at mation is available at www.lagalaxy. Stubhub Center in honor of Zlatan. com/sweden It’s going to be an exciting game - submitted by bertil winther buy your tickets soon if you wish to

DL 8 Convention and Linde’s contribution to As we are gearing up for fall, we have the culture program “God Jul” several special events: Kräftskiva on presentation from her view of the Grand Aug. 25 at the Ekstrand’s home, a two- lodge Convention 2018; Dec. 2 is our day field trip to Bishop Hill and their lodge Christmas lunch, and later in Ag-Days (Jordbruksdagarna) on Sept. December there will be, of course, a 29 & 30 - please join us! Our lodge is Lucia event! participating in the annual Scandinavian Contact us at [email protected] if Festival in New Berlin, WI on Oct. 6 you would like to be part of anything. (See ad on another page). At the Nov. 3 lodge meeting, Liza will do a special submitted by liza ekstrand

Midsommar celebration with Linde members Mary Stetson and Carol Gustafson leading the procession with their violin music. activities, and good food. Midsommar Linde No. 492 was a beautiful day at a new location, milwaukee, wi / Summer kicked off and a huge success. In July, Chairman with the DL 8’s Convention in May. We Liza went to the GL Convention in Celebrating the 4th of July picnic at the GL Convention in Sacramento at the “Swedish” table. had four delegates participating, learn- Sacramento as the Vasa Star managing Some of the folks are: Charlotte Börjeson (front left), Kurt & Maggie Ahlin Thelin and Ulla-Britt Essgren front right. Liza Ekstrand in back center left, and GM Tore & wife Birgitta Kellgren far ing, enjoying great Vasa friends, fun editor, a special event (see editor’s note). left in the back. page 12 WWW.VASAORDER.COM LOCAL LODGE NEWS Summer 2018 / THE VASA STAR Bishop Hill No. 683

Norland Band with Ernie Sandquist (left to right). Chairman Judy Anderson (left) and her granddaughter with a friend.

bishop hill, il / We celebrated At 4 p.m. it was time to put members of the Swedish American Rocket. Ernie Sandquist and the Midsommar on June 23 at the Colony and flowers on the Maypole, many Museum of Chicago, we danced Norland Band played the music; it School. What a wonderful day it people were in the park to help. At many dances, Små Grodorna, was a wonderful time. was, with music in the park all day. the school, with the leadership of Musikanter, Karusellen and the submitted by jeff anderson Norden No. 684

fresno, ca / Our activities have been keeping everyone involved in Vasa. In April many of us attended the 103rd convention Golden Gate District Lodge #12 in Milpitas. Tore Kellgren announced the great news that the Grand Lodge had $40,000 in scholarship money, and awarded 20 scholarships this year. How wonder- ful for our students. In August we gathered with our Vasa brothers and sisters, and Corky Peterson hosted the annual Crayfish and Salmon Potluck. On Sept. 1 at the Cattlemens Res- Ed Rice, Helen Fosick and Leona Rice celebrate August birthdays Mike and Corky Peterson Bar-B-Q-ing the Salmon taurant in Selma, CA was our 50th an- niversary luncheon. Corky Peterson is presenting a Swedish Genealogy Phoenix No. 677 Presentation on Oct. 20; contact her phoenix, az / We look forward to finishing our long, tion of the at [email protected] for details. And hot summer and are ready to start our fall season with holidays to please come on Dec. 8 for our biggest the following programs: Sept. 22 - Environmental issues come. Var- fundraiser of the year: the Lucia and in Nordic countries; Oct. 20 - Early immigration & the ious Nor- Lutfisk Celebration. The Svenska Seattle Nordic Heritage Museum; Nov. 10 - Jul Bazaar dic groups Kids Musik Club will entertain us and with other Nordic groups; and finally, Dec. 8 - Lucia participate the beautiful Lucia Pageant will begin Festival & Pageant. in offer- at 7 p.m. The Christmas Smorgasbord These programs will bring us to the end of the current ing crafts, is always delicious with glogg and year, during which Cultural Leader Judith Ahlberg has good food Christmas cookies for dessert. Save worked diligently to bring varied, informative programs. and laugh- May meeting. the dates. We will be saying so-long to our Vasa Bladet editor, Carol ter. Then it’s time to prepare for the Lucia celebration. submitted by clyda dehn Blackwell, who is moving her publication base to be Visitors and guests are always welcome. Information closer to family. We wish her well and will miss her a lot. can also be found at www.vasaorder.net/?lodge=677 Our Jul Bazaar is an occasion filled with the anticipa- submitted by romy solomonson

WWW.VASAORDER.COM page 13 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018 LOCAL LODGE NEWS Kern River No. 763

bakersfield, ca / Vasa Members from all over Southern California and Sweden celebrated our most treasured tradition in June – Midsummer at Vasa Park in Agoura. It was very special this year since one of our new members, Bailey Reynolds, represented Kern River Lodge in the Midsummer Court. Escorted by her brother Garrett, we were all very proud of Bailey as Miss Columbia. Every year it is memorable to see the procession of the Midsummer Court, Swedish Folk Dance Club of LA and the musicians coming down the Midsummer Queen and Court this year are (L-R): Princess Bella Smedeby, Princess Vendela walk … and later we all enjoy watching Smedeby, Princess Treslyn Smedeby, Princess Alexis Smykal, Princess Hannah Loessberg, Queen Sheldon Cornwell and Princess Britt Almquist our Vasa members joining in with the folk dancers. The children had plenty Glenn T. Seaborg No. 719 of activities at the water slide, bounce house, tube sliding and more. laguna woods, ca / Each year we celebrate a combination National Sweden Our next Vasa Park activity is the Day and Midsummer with a BBQ held at Dana Point Harbor. Holding the Höstmarknad/Fall Market on Oct. 16 event at such a popular location is a great way to attract new members. Our where we have the big Meatball Com- Midsummer Queen was Sheldon Cornwell. petition together with Viking Reenact- submitted by nancy kingston ment, lawn games, vendors, etc. submitted by laila jensen

Top: Bailey Reynolds, Carolina Pall and Vinland No. 703 Rachael DeLaurenti. Right: Garrett & Bailey - Miss Columbia cape cod, ma / We think it is NOT supposed to rain on Midsummer! And certainly not two years in a row, but we learned it rained on celebrations in Our included watermelon, leader, sends information by email Sweden also. We placed our Maypole pepparkaks cake, mandelkakor and about events in Sweden as she travels on three tables inside the hall and other treats. At our July meeting, we there frequently for business. Upcom- adorned it with fresh flowers and shared photographs of our past events. ing meetings are Sept. 15, Oct. 20 and greens. Following our picnic lunches In August, Clara Buttrick related her Nov. 10 with presentations by some the showers eased so we set up the experiences and friendship with two members on their travels and Kajsa’s Maypole in the parking lot. Ahh, we Norwegian skiers who helped set up a worldwide business interests. could sing and dance to our tradition- Minnesota ski resort for handicapped Vinland Midsummer celebration. skiers. Kajsa Brimdyr, our cultural submitted by al songs, especially Små Grodorna. dorothy ann ellner kean

SHIRLEY OPAL RANEY tended the lodge’s Breakfast Club for many TEXAS , 83, died IN MEMORIAM years, and was an honored lifetime member. on May 8, 2018 to be reunited in heaven with her husband Robert, son Robert Jr, OREGON MARGARET “PEGGY” OLSSON and daughter Susan Hamilton. Shirley is Memorial Notices should be mailed with died peacefully May 15, 2018 in Dallas. survived by Rose Raney, Robert, Chris check or money order to The Vasa Star, SUSANNA BJORK-BELL died in She is survived by her husband John of 62 and Braxton Hamilton. Shirley was a PO Box 13331, Milwaukee, WI 53213-0331. Astoria on April 1, 2018 at the age of 67. years. Peggy was a remarkable woman and member of Svea No. 469 of Longview, Email: [email protected]. The fee Susanna joined Astor Lodge No. 215 will be greatly missed by her loving family WA. is $10 - max. 40-45 words, and $25 for on January 28, 2007 and was a willing and everyone at Carl XVI Gustaf No. 716 longer obituaries - 50-120 words. All worker who will be missed. Dallas, TX. a daughter. WISCONSIN notices must be typed and in a format similar to what you see here. NO news- NELLY NORRMAN was born May 18, WASHINGTON PATRICIA NORDQUIST, 93, died on paper clippings 1919 in Umeå, Sweden. She also died in April 30, 2018. Pat is survived by her If you submitted an obituary and it is Umeå, on March 30, 2018, just short of DOREEN PARKER (4/18/1921 - daughters, sons- and daughter-in-, not listed here, please resubmit to be her 99th birthday. Nelly lived in Astoria, 1/8/2018) passed away in Aberdeen. Be- grandchildren and great grandchildren. included in the following issue. OR for a number of years and joined As- sides being a member of Norskenet No. She was a very active Linde Lodge 492 OHIO tor Lodge No. 215 on April 27, 1963. She 189, she was a lifetime member of Sons member until a few years ago. She will was one of the original organizers who, of Norway. Doreen had a great sense of be missed by family and friends. in 1967, started the Astoria Scandinavian humor and was very helpful. She will be SARAH BLASER, 105, an active and Midsummer Festival which is still going missed by family and friends. loved member of Nobel-Monitor No. 130 strong 51 years later. Though Nelly moved since 1982, died on July 26, 2018. She back to Sweden in the 1980s, she remained graciously sold our 50/50 raffle tickets, at- in touch and kept an interest in Vasa.

page 14 WWW.VASAORDER.COM SWEDISH NEWS language SWEDISH NEWS Skåne No. 570 Calmare Nyckel No. 628

Årets Sverige-Amerikadag 10 juni malmö, sweden / Sy Birgit Ekelund bassaden kom Logen Skånes Hedersmedlem har 2018, den 68:e på Kalmar slott. David Lind- blivit 100 år. Dagen firades i strålande sol och vall, Charge’ Högtidsdagen firades på annan ort började i Kalmar slottskyrka. Gud- d’affires och med släkt och vänner. Några dagar stjänsten inleddes med vacker musik höll ett högtidstal. senare var logens Ordf. Sy Marie - prästen Johanna Hajstad vid fiolen Kalmar Folkdanslag med Kalmar Wickström hemma hos jubilaren för och Per-Ola Svensson vid orgeln. Spelmanslag framförde ett antal folk- att överbringa logens lyckönsknin- Gudstjänsten hölls delvis på engel- danser inför en uppskattande publik. gar. Sy Birgit är en trogen besökare ska och innehöll, förutom sedvanlig Calmar Brazz underhöll med bravur på våra möten fast hon uppnått denna gudstjänstordning, predikan med och avslutade med ”Så skimrande var beundransvärda ålder. Sy Birgit har hänvisning till emigrationen där Jo- aldrig havet”. Gemensam avmarsch ett långt medlemskap i vår Orden hanna Hajstad berörde de umbärande med fanbärare företogs till Krusen- med olika logetillhörigheter, Logen de som lämnade Sverige fick utstå. stiernska gården där ostkakegille stod Mälardrottningen, Logen Småland Många lämnade åldriga föräldrar, på programmet. Underhållning fort- och nu Logen Skåne. syskon och vänner men också stor satte med dans, musik och sedvanliga Ordf. Sy Marie uppvaktar Sy Birgit på fattigdom. Musiken med anknytning lotterier. Dagen var mycket lyckad i submitted by olle wickström hennes högtidsdag. till emigrationen, var komponerad av det varma och soliga vädret med väl P Moreus och W Petersson-Berger. genomfört program. Sällskapet flyttade sig till ”Gröna salen”. Moderator broder Ole Torffvit submitted by marianne westman Höganäs No. 634 hälsade alla välkomna och visade in fanparaden som med andaktsfulla höganäs, sweden / Den 16 steg äntrade salen. Syster Solbritt juni hölls det traditionella Allgren presenterade de olika fanor- sommarmötet, Sverige- na varvid den svenska, amerikanska Amerika mötet. Dagen till och canadensiska nationalsången och ära installerades fyra nya Vasasången sjöngs unisont. Ackom- medlemmar i logen. Installa- panjerade gjorde Calmare Brazz. tionen skedde enligt den nya Hälsningsanförande hölls av Kalmar ritualen. Efter installationen kommunfullmäktiges ordförande genomfördes en vacker och Roger Kaliff. Från Amerikanska am- högtidlig fanparad. Alla fick Ovan till höger: De duktiga välförtjänta applåder efter fanbärarna Lena Brissman, Asta Fanparad. väl utförd fanparad. Efter Dahle’n, Valdis Nilhov, Solbritt logemötet var det dags för bankett. Traditionsenligt utbringas kvällens första Allgren och Monica Jernetz nu skål till HM Konung Karl XVI Gustav och Kungssången sjungs. Vidare enligt framme vid Krusenstiernska gården. traditionen bjuds det på kokt lax med tillbehör med efterrätt jordgubbar med glass och grädde. När banketten är avslutad och borden är avdukade serveras kaffe och kaka, samtidigt som musiken spelar upp till dans. Att dans är nyttigt bekräftas av våra äldsta medlemmar Sy. Maj-Britt Carlsson och Br. Stig Nilsson. Trots att de båda är över 90 år finner man dem ofta uppe på dansgolvet. När sedan lördagen går över till söndag och lotteri- dragning klar, musiken Stämningsfull gudstjänst i Kalmar har tystnat då var det slottskyrka. dags att gå hem från ännu en trevlig kväll i Vasas anda och se fram mot Kulturmötet den Ovan: Fanorna 22 september. Ett kul- presenteras av Solbritt Allgren, här med turmöte där Ulrik Alm Vasaflaggan. kommer att tala om ”Kvinnor som även- Höger: Sedvanligt tyrare och resenärer” ostkakegille i Krusenstiernska parken. submitted by ola sandberg Flitiga på dansgolvet, Sy. Maj-Britt Carlsson och Br. Stig Nilsson.

SEPTEMBER 15, 2018 15 THE VASA STAR / Summer 2018 GRAND LODGE NEWS Grand Master, Art Bjorkner Art Bjorkner was elected to the managed a fleet of Submarine Veterans; Honorary First position of Grand Master of the Vasa 26 tankers. Follow- Defenders Board; National Cargo Bu- Order of America during July’s Grand ing a second retire- reau; Masonic Order; and, Shriners. Lodge Convention in Sacramento. He ment he accepted Art and Nancy have been married 55 is a long-standing member of the Vasa the role of executive years and have three children and six Order in two local lodges, Sveaborg vice president of an grandchildren. During their marriage #446 and Frithiof #63 in New Jersey international ship they’ve moved 14 times. All of Nancy District #6. registry with over and Art’s family belong to Vasa. Art was elected to the executive 700 vessels and is Art collects old Volvos and plays the board representing the Eastern Region currently the dep- trombone. He enjoys making repairs in 2010. In that position he wrote The uty commissioner and yard maintenance in Vasa Park in Vasa Membership Guide which can for the registry. Art Budd Lake, New Jersey, the residen- be found and downloaded from www. presently has an tial community in which he and Nancy vasaorder.com. During that term he unlimited license live and share strong friendships. Art served as Membership Chairman and for any size vessel and Nancy travel frequently to Swe- as a member of the Commit- sailing worldwide. den and enjoy visiting with relatives. tee. He also assisted CT District #1 in Art is a member Art feels enthusiasm is the lacking rewriting its district constitution. Art of the: Council of ingredient in membership growth and was elected to the position of Vice American Marines; hopes to encourage all Vasa members Grand Master in 2014. The newly elected Grand Master and FLOV Nancy visit the City of New York to reignite the energy and excitement Art graduated from the University Nordstjernan display at the Scandinavian Folk Festival in Jamestown Marine Society; they felt when they joined the Order. of New York Maritime College with NY (with Mette Barslund Martensson, right). Marine Accident He is looking forward to serving the a BS in marine transportation and a Art spent 20 years in active duty in Investigators Inter- Vasa Order as Grand Master offering Navy Commission. He later com- the US Navy in the submarine service. national Forum; Naval Submarine leadership and guidance for the future. pleted his MBA in finance from the After retiring from the Navy he spent League; Military Officers Asso- 10 years sailing the world as a captain respectfully submitted by University of New Haven. He is also ciation; American Legion; Disabled pgm, bill lundquist a licensed Merchant Marine Officer. on tankers. Art “came ashore” and American Veterans; STORMÄSTARENS MEDDELANDE

kära vasasyskon, och jag ser fram emot att delta i deras Ha broschyrer, ansökningsblanketter och Det har gått några möten i maj 2019! bilder från aktiviteter. Också föreslå att veckor sedan jag val- Sammansättningen av Storlogens minst en deltagande medlem är klädd i tra- THE VASA des till din stormästare Exekutiva Råd är enastående. Av de nio ditionell folkdräkt. Om du inte har en lokal för 4 år framåtr. Jag ombord har jag känt åtta åtminstone åtta broschyr, ladda ner Storloge-broschyren ORDER IS har blivit hedrad med år, och de har mycket användbar Vasa- som visas på Storloge-medlemmarnas ett “send off” - party av kunskap för Ordens goda. Vi är stolta att sida, och gå till Medlemshandboken AMERICA’S NJ District 6 Vasa Park meddela att ordern nu officiellt finns på de online och se ett exempel på en lokal Trustees, och jag har börjat vidarebefordra tre stora sociala mediaplattformarna! Vän- broschyr. LARGEST meddelanden till mina Storlogedeputer- ligen dela och gå med på våra Facebook, Den nya Vice Grand Lodge-sekreterar- ade med uppdateringar. Jag är angelägen Twitter och Instagram sidor för att öka vår en är Marlene Patient, marlenepatient@ FRIENDSHIP om att alla relevanta uppgifter från Storlo- närvaro i sociala medier. För ytterligare gmail.com. Kontakta henne för smycken, gemötet kommer alla till del. Delegaterna frågor kontakta vår ansvarige för sociala nålar, nya medlemspaket (gratis) och an- AND till Storlogemötet var väl omhändertagna media, Chad Widman, chadwidman@ dra formulär. Nya medlemsansökningar och uppskattade och arbetade mycket hårt gmail.com. finns tillgängliga online för nedladdning. CULTURAL för att uppdatera och revidera i enlighet Strax efter Storlogemötet närvarade I enlighet med ett godkänt beslut på Stor- med de åtgärder och rekommendationer First Lady (Nancy) och jag den omtalade logemötet krävs ingen rekommendation som skickats till Storlogemötet från alla Jamestown Scandinavian Festival i New för medlemskap, och formuleringen har medlemmar! York. Vi njöt av vänskap, musik, mat tagits bort. FOR NORDICS Planeringen och genomförandet av och utställningar. Don Sandy från Thule Storlogemötet var berömligt. Många Lodge # 127 gjorde ett fantastiskt jobb för i sanning och enighet, IN NORTH tack går till Victoria Fedor-Thurman, att organisera allt. art bjorkner, stormästare ordförande för Storlogemötet, och hennes Om det finns några festivaler eller ut- AMERICA. kommittéer i District 12. Hotellarrange- ställningar i ditt logeområde, försök att gå mang, turer och mat kunde inte ha varit med och ha ett “VASA INFORMATION” bättre. Jag vill särskilt tacka de många bås eller bord. Vi kan inte få medlemmar WWW.VASAORDER.COM svenska medlemmar som deltog i mötet, utan att dela vår entusiasm för ordern! page 16 WWW.VASAORDER.COM