Lives of Learning / Exhibitions / Faces of ASI
Posten
The American Swedish Institute Magazine
Featured Articles Kindertransport & Lives of Learning
September – October 2021
Contents
Thank You! To all of the donors and members who make the work of the American Swedish Institute possible.
3 Message from Bruce Karstadt, ASI President & CEO 4-5 Lives of Learning 6-7 Exhibitions at ASI Minnesota artist activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund, and a grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation Minnesota.
22 Sweden & Swedish 23 ASI Museum Store
10-11 Youth and Family 12-13 Pippi and Susan Marie Go to School 14-15 Faces of ASI: Bill Jaeger 16 ASI News
Posten The American Swedish Institute
20-21 Nordic Happenings
8-9 Living Stewardship
17 Community Fund
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18-19 Memorials & Tributes
Cover and Kindertransport exhibition photos courtesy of C & G Partners.
The membership publication of the American Swedish Institute. To update a subscription or become a member, call (612) 871-4907 or e-mail info@ asimn.org. Jon Dahlin, Karen Nelson and Emily Krumm, Editors.
Photo by Sharolyn B. Hagen
Message from Bruce Karstadt, ASI President & CEO While we rejoice in seeing so many people here, we intend to continue distance learning to serve people at home and our non-resident participants.
It’s early July as I write this, and I’m reflecting on the growth of recent activity on our campus: members of our ASI Male Chorus (celebrating their 85th anniversary this year) arrived for an evening rehearsal. Volunteers from Sisters’ Camelot and a few ASI staff assembled in our front courtyard for community food distribution. One family came for a memorial gathering to honor a loved one, and another later held a wedding ceremony in our gardens. Diners filled the tables in Fika café, and other visitors shopped at our carefully curated Museum Store (which now has an online component!). Our Midsommar celebration drew many visitors and stretched out over four days — which led me to think this might have been our version of the movie Groundhog Day. We’re also seeing the results of cautious planning for the return of students young and old: tents in the shadow of the Mansion serve as outdoor handcraft classrooms where children from the Whittier neighborhood enjoy a craft lesson, and where adult groups learn such skills as green woodcarving or SAORI weaving. The return of our much-appreciated Babies at the Castle and Kids at the Castle programs brings joy to many young parents. Virtual programming grew considerably this past year. We essentially started from zero to establishing six Zoom channels to support dozens of courses ranging from Swedish language to cooking to craft to music. We have also launched a new website. Two members commented that they were immensely pleased by ASI’s adept shift to online options. One wrote, "the walls and miles between us and ASI have disappeared."
When ASI was founded in 1929, our charter expressly stated that it was intended to be "an institute for the sole purpose of education." Over 90-plus years, our commitment to education has remained constant. We’ve also thought more expansively about our audiences, recognizing our community’s growing diversity, which is considerably broader now than in 1929. We embrace the valuable role that ASI plays as a "third place" outside of home and work as an anchor of community life committed to a mission of being a gathering place for all people (virtually and in person) for learning, creative pursuit, relaxation and civic engagement. We’re also pleased to collaborate with a wide range of organizations, such as those mentioned elsewhere in this issue, who helped bring the Kindertransport exhibition here, examining the history of a heroic recue of children on the eve of a world war and related issues at the core of our mission. This issue of Posten and a separately mailed Catalog describe a robust calendar of events and activities. All of this is made possible by many supportive friends and members. When you make a gift, renew a membership, enroll in a class or patronize our Museum Store or Fika, your generosity enables our creative staff and dedicated volunteers to enrich the lives of many others through programs, classes and exhibitions. I encourage you to take part in the life of our institute as we look ahead to our 91st year of service to community. Thank you for all you do in support of a place cherished by so many. Tack så hemskt mycket!
Bruce Karstadt, ASI President & CEO POSTEN
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Lives of Learning "Jumping off the deep end, not knowing what I was getting into, it's been an absolutely awakening time." — Carline Bengtsson, ASI Board Member
Change, soul searching and the quest for peace and well-being. It’s been a year when many people have looked at their lives, upended the bucket list and ventured anew along the path of lifelong learning. The American Swedish Institute has met them along the way. We’re all lifelong learners with a natural curiosity. It’s part of being human. Have you always wanted to learn a language? Are you ready to (finally) knit? What about sharing a new Nordic cultural experience with the grandchildren? Check and double check; ASI offers the gamut. Lifelong learning, whether for personal or professional reasons, generally means the pursuit of knowledge that is "ongoing, voluntary and self-motivated." It could stem from curiosity or
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a desire to stay relevant in the workplace or to meet new people. We grow thanks to our ability to learn. ASI is a haven for those who live to learn and learn to live. ASI volunteer Susan (Sue) Droegemueller is a wonderful example of someone with advanced careers and many self-nurtured interests. She has an B.A. degree in English and a graduate degree in human resource training. She finished law school at age 51 and was a law clerk for a judge. She also earned a Minnesota teaching license for English and usually substitute teaches. Despite such an impressive background, Sue emphasized that she wasn’t sharing all this for accolades. "My whole life since childhood has
Get outside with ASI this summer
been about learning. Life is so interesting. I like the Nordic cultures and lived in Norway as an undergraduate long before study abroad was popular (and was recently on the Norway House board). This year, I’ve probably read over 100 books and am studying to recapture my Norwegian. I’m also very much involved in art, so I take craft classes. This makes me happy, but it’s also a way to share." Regarding ASI, Sue said, "My volunteer work has been mostly as a tour guide — the breadth of the exhibitions is amazing. The exhibition Where the Children Sleep (about Syrian refugees), for example, was an opportunity to learn something, teach others and integrate my interests — since I have worked pro bono on immigration and asylum cases. I also did a lot of tours for The Vikings Begin exhibition. I made a historically accurate costume and went to all the related programs." Sue Droegemueller and her grandson Gunnar
ASI also attracts lifelong learners at the leadership level. As a member of the ASI Board, Carline Bengtsson is an example of how loss, leaving a job and tapping her lifelong passion for cooking at age 58 led to a second career. Born in Jamaica and raised in St. Paul, Carline married Swedish-born Lars. When he died nine years ago, she contemplated change. While shifting into retirement after 26 years at Medtronic as an engineering program manager, she was able to convert employee points to donate to Feed My Starving Children but was shocked at the minimal impact. She thought she could do more. After talking to friends who knew what a great cook and host she was, she self-published a cookbook called Carline's Fork and Cork: Simply Delish! This led to her starting Dine4Dinners (dine4dinners.org). Recently profiled in the Star Tribune, Carline now caters private meals in other people's homes and donates 25% of the proceeds to hunger relief. She draws on childhood curries and food from her travels, including Swedish cuisine. After the pandemic hit, her idea fit the times. Since launching last summer, she has raised funds for the equivalent of more than 57,000 meals. "This was my moment where I said, this is what I need to do — use my cooking and give back in this way," she told the Star Tribune. While business is booming, profits are still minimal. But it's worth it, she says. "It benefits the foodies, but it's also about paying it forward to those in need."
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Exhibitions at ASI Kindertransport — Rescuing Children on the Brink of War Approximately 10,000 children were saved thanks to the organized rescue efforts of Kindertransport (German for “Children’s Transport"). This exhibition explores the difficult and often heartbreaking journeys of these children through original artifacts, personal stories and rare historical footage. On display in Osher Gallery, the exhibition tells the story of the Kindertransport, both chronologically and thematically, starting with an historical background about the events leading up to the transport of Jewish children from Nazi Germany in 1938 and 1939. "After Kristallnacht (November 9, 1938), conditions worsened daily and nearly all German and Austrian Jews realized there was no future in their native countries," wrote Steve Hunegs, Executive Director of JCRC, one of the local copresenters of the exhibition. Hunegs helps share the impetus and scale of what was happening in those years leading up to World War II. "Jews seeking refuge throughout the world — see the Evian Conference and the fate of the Wagner-Rogers 'Child Refugee' Bill — were often thwarted in their efforts. The admission of about 10,000 Kindertransport children into various countries, including Britain and Sweden, was a rare humanitarian governmental act in these desperate times. Ultimately, the Final Solution would consume more than a 1.5 million Jewish children."
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Parents were suddenly faced with a gut wrenching and difficult decision: Should they send their child to a foreign land in the hope of finding a better life, not knowing if they would ever see them again? Or should they keep the family together in their native country, with the threat of increasing repression and a dire future?
“We knew that we had to get out of Germany as fast as possible. What we did not know was that this was nearly impossible. Few countries wanted us. So we tried to save at least the children. It was heartbreaking to put that little one, crying, into the arms of strangers.” — Rosemarie L. Joseph Unique to ASI, the exhibition continues to Level 2 of the Mansion with accounts from three local families of Kindertransport survivors. In the supplemental exhibition, The Story is Here, you will meet Siegfried Lindenbaum, Kurt Moses and Benno Black — each once a child saved from Nazi Germany. Their legacies live on today; their stories are here in Minnesota. Minneapolis local Beth Gendler shares her father Siegfried’s experience, “My dad was 9 years old when he and his 7-year-old brother, Manfred, traveled together from Poland to England. They arrived on August 29, 1939, only three days before the Nazi invasion of Poland. Sadly, the next boat Special thanks to the Barbro Osher Pro Suecia Foundation for Kindertransport exhibition funding.
never arrived for their sister Ruth; she was later killed in Auschwitz.” It is important to tell these stories. Philip Greenberg, of blessed memory, and his family established the Greenberg Family Fund for Holocaust Awareness at Beth El Synagogue to ensure the future of Holocaust education in Minnesota. Greenberg believed, "With the survivors becoming fewer and fewer, we need to hear the stories and become witnesses. We have the responsibility of passing them on to future generations so history does not repeat itself." This exhibition and related programming are being collaboratively presented in Minnesota by the Greenberg Family Fund for Holocaust Awareness at Beth El Synagogue, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC), and ASI. The exhibition was created and organized by Yeshiva University Museum and Leo Baeck Institute in New York and Berlin. The exhibitions will run through October 31, 2021.
Thousands of blank Manilla tags, just like the ones that the children on the Kindertransport wore around their necks, represent the scale, anonymity, and eventual bittersweet success of the transport effort.
"I thought it was an adventure, and I was not afraid, it didn't occur to me that I might never see my parents again," — Kindertransport survivor Elsbeth Gaertner Lewin
The impact of the organized Kindertransport rescue has spanned time and place. Its ripple has reached every corner of the world, including right here in Minnesota. Explore these local stories and connections in the supplemental exhibition The Story is Here. Siegfried Lindenbaum
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Living Stewardship Community support prepares the Turnblad Mansion for its next century. The Turnblad Mansion is one of Minnesota’s true architectural gems, and for more than a century it has remained a place for the community to share meaningful experiences around art, culture, heritage and community. Over the last ten years, ASI and our community have together completed a series of projects to prepare this historic building for its next hundred years as a gathering place. Most recently, these projects have been driven by ASI’s goal to fully restore the Turnblad Mansion to its original state, to open areas of the Mansion previously inaccessible to the public, and to offer an improved experience for all Mansion visitors. With the completion of two major projects led by HGA Architects and Engineers, ASI is now equipped with a complete understanding of what must be done to restore the Turnblad Mansion in its entirety. Contributions from individuals and families, bolstered by grants from private foundations and the Minnesota
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Historical Society, have enabled the completion of a historic building conditions assessment and the development of construction documents to guide all necessary restoration work. The Conditions Assessment is a transformational milestone for ASI as it documents in comprehensive detail every preservation issue throughout the Turnblad Mansion that is present in this beloved building after more than century. No stone was left unturned in this assessment; no extension cord left un-commented-upon. In tandem with the Construction Documents, which detail the type of work that must be done and estimate each project’s costs, ASI is equipped with a complete picture of the work ahead. Place matters. Community matters. And this place matters to our community. Continue to check ASI’s Mansion Musings videos online, and to watch Posten for updates on plans for the restoration of this historic asset. For more information or to make a gift, contact Christiana Stolpestad, Director of Engagement, at (612) 870-3354 or christys@asimn.org.
Turnblad Mansion Stewardship Projects
Visby Window Assessment The Visby Window undergoes assessment to determine if restoration is needed.
2021 Veranda Repairs The Turnblad Mansion’s veranda will undergo a full repair in 2021-2022.
Norse Saga Room The Norse Saga Room is installed in the lower level of the Turnblad Mansion.
2020
2019 Historic Building Conditions Assessment ASI gains a comprehensive understanding of all areas of the Turnblad Mansion in need of restoration.
2017
2015 Kitchen Restoration The Turnblad Mansion’s historic kitchen undergoes major restoration.
Veranda Stabilization The Turnblad Mansion veranda undergoes stabilization following the discovery of structural
issues.
2018 The Stuga ASI refreshes the beloved Stuga in the Turnblad Mansion’s lower level.
Construction Documents HGA Architects and Engineers completes a roadmap for the work that must take place within the Turnblad Mansion.
Roof Repairs Repairs are made to the Carriage House and Turnblad Mansion roofing.
2013
2012 Grand Hall Carpet Restoration A replica of the original 1908 carpet is installed in the Turnblad Mansion’s Grand Hall.
2011
Campus Expansion The Nelson Cultural Center opens to the public, empowering ASI to open its doors wider as a gathering place for all people.
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2021 Lucia Choir Registration for participants from 2019 and 2020 Lucia Choirs runs September 23 – October 3. New family registration begins October 7. More information and applications for Lucia and Attendants is available at ASImn.org.
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Youth and Family Applicants for 2021 Lucia, Attendant and Head Star Kid Every year, the American Swedish Institute chooses three individuals to act as Lucia, Attendant(s) and/or Head Star Kid. Eligibility: Between 16 and 18 years of age • Demonstrates interest in Sweden, SwedishAmerican culture, and an understanding of the “spirit” of Lucia • Demonstrates a strong involvement in the American Swedish Institute Lucia, Attendant and Head Starboy are encouraged to be members of the ASI Lucia Choir and must be available for the ASI Lucia Choir rehearsals and performances. Preference is given to applicants with ASI membership and who can show current or past participation in ASI, Lucia Choir, or other Swedish and/or Swedish-American programs.
ASI Birthday Parties will return in 2022 Reservations begin Tuesday, September 7 Throw a fun and memorable party that your special birthday child (or grandchild) will love! Let ASI Party Staff do the setup, clean-up and facilitate all activities. Children can choose from Pippi, Vikings, Moomin, DIY Dala Horse or Swedish Birthday Cake party themes. Each party includes craft activities and playtime in the castle. Perfect for children 5 – 12 years old. ASI will start taking birthday party reservations for 2022 beginning on September 7. Email your inquiry to the Programs Associate, Ingrid Aune, at ingrida@asimn.org. • Party Package for up to 10 children and 4 adults: $200 ASI members / $225 non-members • Party Package for up to 15 children and 6 adults: $225 ASI members / $250 non-members
To Apply Submit a typed one-page essay about your education and academic honors, community service, activities, and accomplishments. The essay should also highlight the applicant’s interest in Sweden and Swedish heritage, as well as the applicant’s involvement in ASI. DEADLINE: Monday, October 25, 2021 Email your essay to ingrida@ASImn.org Please include your name, address, phone, and parent contact information.
Page 10 photo: ASI Lucias Nina Duffy (left) and Emmie Gumaelius (right), 2020
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Pippi and Susan Marie Go to School Like the children’s book hero Pippi Longstocking, author/educator Susan Marie Swanson sallies forth to foster laughter, friendship and adventure. The long-running Pippi Project is a joint venture with two Minneapolis elementary schools and the American Swedish Institute (ASI). While the program will continue, Swanson recently announced her retirement from it. As we thank her for her work, the award-winning author is quick to credit the program’s success to the collaboration between the schools and ASI. Q to Susan Marie Swanson — How did this all get started? To mark the centennial of Astrid Lindgren’s birth, I started developing curriculum for teaching writing inspired by her work, and in May 2007, I traveled to Stockholm to present at the Astrid Lindgren Centennial Conference. I‘d already approached former ASI staffer Nina Clark, and that fall we launched our first Pippi residency. Since then, ASI staffers Ingrid Nyholm-Lange, Britta Walstrom and now Lindsey Tscherne, in addition to many educators, including “founding” teachers Becky Ramgren and
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Catherine Lee from Bancroft and Andersen schools, have helped the program thrive. Q to SMS — You describe the program as “bigger than you.” Why? The Pippi Project is grounded in collaborative relationships with Minneapolis Public School teachers and administrators. ASI staff and volunteers engage children in lively conversations about their writing. Our work succeeds because teachers make space, draw out our best, and encourage students to participate wholeheartedly. And the second and third-graders themselves are the heart of the program. The individual child is always more important than my lesson or their words on paper. Q to SMS — What can children can learn from Astrid Lindgren and Pippi? Writers learn how to write by reading. In the Pippi Project, we’ve got a concrete example. Pippi is a remarkable 9-year-old. She sewed her own dress and makes pancakes for her friends. She's the strongest girl in the world! The student’s characters, like Pippi, have interesting pets and
particular places to live. They have amazing skills. They make stuff. They wear clothes that are just right for them. Astrid Lindgren first told Pippi stories to her daughter — and later wrote the stories down to give to her on her birthday. I ask students whom they’d like to share their characters with. Like Pippi, Lindgren lived on the edge of a little town as a child, wore her hair in braids, and climbed trees. The characters children create are rooted in their lives, too. Q to Becky Ramgren, teacher at Bancroft Elementary — Why is the Pippi Project beneficial? The first thing is engagement. Every student LOVES Pippi. There is something about this remarkable character that draws people in. Students who do not see themselves as readers or writers, find themselves reading and writing. The students take such pride in their work and
use Pippi and Lindgren as their inspiration. This is one of my favorite units to teach; it creates lasting memories. Susan Marie sees the students’ amazing potential and makes us all feel like authors. Q to Britta Wallstrom, ASI Program Manager — how do you think the Pippi project and Susan Marie have strengthened connections between ASI and the community? I believe that the Pippi Project is the core of ASI’s community partnerships. The shareholders supporting it have allowed ASI to work closer with Minneapolis Public Schools. The partnership has been going on for so long, that families know us as a part of their child’s educational experience. Susan Marie shares her experience as an author and with Astrid Lindgren’s work to make learning fun. We can’t thank her enough. We’ll miss her, and we’re deeply appreciative of her contributions.
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Faces of ASI: Bill Jaeger
For decades, ASI has hosted popular woodcarving classes shepherded along by devoted instructors, including Ivar Anderson, Bob Erickson and most recently Bill Jaeger. These classes have offered hundreds of students the chance to learn Scandinavian flat plane figure carving, using nothing more than basswood blanks, a simple carving knife, and a little paint to depict anyone from Swedish immigrants to Vikings. Not for the first time, ASI woodcarving program is evolving: Bill is taking the opportunity to officially retire from teaching after 18 years, after ASI’s in-person classes were put on pause last year due to COVID-19.
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Bill is a homegrown instructor who started carving at ASI after he found one of Harley Refsal’s Scandinavian carving books in the bookshop. “It was just a natural thing for me,” Bill said of his connection to this older style of carving. “It opened a whole new world for me, I started meeting all these other carvers, going to Sweden… I met so many wonderful people.” Through the years, Bill took classes from Harley, Ivar and Bob, but also Göte Ericksson, Anja Sundqvist, Ramon Persson and other Swedish carvers, and was recognized for his work with a Gold Medal from Vesterheim’s folk art exhibitions. After Bill took over ASI’s carving classes in 2002, the classes grew from two to six
classes a week, with up to 90 students a term. Through it all, Bill kept students supplied with fresh carving blanks, inspiration for new designs and, of course, a regular fika schedule.
completely unique program in both Sweden and the US. And we know there are lots of students ready to pick up their carving knives at the next opportunity!”
Bill says that now he’s retired, he’ll most miss the people in his carving classes. “[I’ll miss] going every week and seeing everybody, sitting down and chatting with them. Some people were with me for all 18 years. And it was also fun to have new people come, with new stories. People have such interesting lives, these carvers – they all had these great life stories.” Alongside his students, Bill brought stories of the past to life through his traditional carving designs. “It’s a good art form,” Bill says of flat plane figure carving. “It’s our history, it’s culture. It’s timeless. I would love it if kids got interested in it again.”
We join with his students in sending our very best wishes to Bill in his retirement.
ASI is so grateful to Bill and all our woodcarving students who have kept the program alive all these years. Erin Swenson-Klatt, ASI’s Food and Handcrafts Program Coordinator, says, “It’s been such a gift to work with a master artist and instructor like Bill. The ASI woodcarving community has a deep legacy of keeping this important style of Swedish craft alive — it’s a
“I’ll miss going every week and seeing everybody, sitting down and chatting with them. Some people were with me for all 18 years. And it was also fun to have new people come, with new stories. People have such interesting lives, these carvers — they all had these great life stories.” — Bill Jaeger, retired Scandinavian figure carving instructor at ASI
WOODCARVING AT ASI What comes next for ASI’s woodcarving program? ASI is always seeking out new instructors in both figure carving and slöjd-style green woodcarving and looks forward to returning to in-person classes as it is safe to do so. Meanwhile, students can look up current classes in our Catalog, or join a regular Makers Morning or Makers Night meet up on Zoom or in-person. For questions about teaching with ASI, Makers meet ups or our woodcarving programs, please reach out to Erin Swenson-Klatt at ErinSK@ASImn.org.
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ASI News New ASI E-Commerce Site and New E-Commerce Coordinator The ASI Museum Store is excited to announce the launch of a new retail E-Commerce site, using the Shopify platform. We’re happy to now be able to meet the growing desire among supporters and members to shop online. In parallel, we are equally enthused to share the news that DeAnn Barlow has joined the ASI retail team as Retail E-Commerce Coordinator. DeAnn is no stranger to ASI. She and her husband are longtime, active members. DeAnn has also been a volunteer, a Julmarknad vendor and a frequent shopper in our store. She and her husband are also small-business owners of äventyr, which makes popular bicycle bags.
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Get on Board! Following its Annual Meeting on June 16, 2021, the ASI announced three new members elected to its Board of Trustees: Lynnea AtlasIngebretson; Barbara Linell Glaser, Ed.D.; and Lenor Scheffler. The following Board Officers were also approved: Brad Engdahl as Board Chair, Dr. Maggi Adamek as Vice Chair, Laurie Jacobi as Secretary and Elizabeth Olson as Treasurer. ASI Trustees serve three-year terms and contribute significant expertise to leadership. Five trustees who have completed their first terms in office will serve second three-year terms: Margaret (Maggi) Adamek, Ph.D.; Aimee Richcreek Baxter; Mary Dee Hicks, Ph.D.; Dr. John Litell and Elizabeth Olson. ASI also thanks four trustees who completed six years of service: Dr. Philip Anderson, Diane Hofstede, Laurie Holmquist and Ted Johnson.
New ASI Board Members (left to right): Lynnea Atlas-Ingebretson, Barbara Linell Glaser, Ed.D., and Lenor Scheffler
ASI Community Fund The ASI Community Fund offers short-term aid to service-oriented organizations and initiatives in response to emerging needs, primarily in the Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis. This inaugural round drew 20 applications, from which a committee of ASI staff selected three grant awardees. Candidates that were not selected this round have been encouraged to reapply, and ASI is exploring additional opportunities for partnership with these organizations. The recipients for spring 2021 are: • Tamales y Bicicletas ($2,000), which aims to strengthen the local Latino and immigrant communities through bicycle projects, green farming, cultural empowerment and environmental justice, with a primary goal of improving the health of low-income communities of color in Minneapolis. • The Semilla Center for Healing and the Arts ($2,000), which focuses on bringing quality arts learning experiences to underserved communities, including immigrants and at-risk youth. This year, the Semilla Center has turned its programming toward the theme of neighborhood healing.
Two grants for immediate needs also were given in 2020, before the Fund’s official launch. In June, ASI hosted a supply drive and raised nearly $3,000 for PICA Head Start. In December, $500 was given to Open Arms of Minnesota as part of a volunteer project. The ASI Community Fund was founded in the wake of George Floyd’s murder last May at the hands of Minneapolis police. Through the Fund, ASI seeks to support its neighbors as they build, invigorate and reimagine our shared community. The Fund is rooted in ASI’s founding by Swedish immigrants and in a long commitment to sharing its own story of migration. Today, ASI takes its place among many immigrant cultures in the Phillips neighborhood and celebrates their mutual support and collective well-being. ASI extends its deepest thanks to the generous and conscientious donors whose gifts have made these awards possible. Future gifts will allow the Fund to grow and continue to serve the community. If you would like to apply or make a gift, please visit www.ASImn.org. Tamales y Bicicletas in action.
• The Somali American Women Action Center ($1,000), which focuses on stabilizing the lives of refugee and immigrant women and their families in Minnesota by providing support toward job training, social empowerment, skills and leadership development, professional networking and health and well-being. In addition, ASI is partnering with Sisters’ Camelot, a local nonprofit organization, to serve as a monthly food share distribution site. POSTEN
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Memorials & Tributes
Sid Garrison and in gratitude for
Susan Loughrea
his and wife Terry’s passion for
James and Natalie Norman
Nordic ceramics
Margareta Ritt
Bruce Karstadt
JoAnn Thoreen
Margorie ‘Marge’ Green
Karin Larson
Tom and Laurie Burns
Bruce Karstadt
Gifts Received February 10, 2021 –
Susan and Wallace (Wally)
Christiana Stolpestad
April 29, 2021
Droegemueller Marc Hyser
Alice Lissell Ann Hutchings
IN MEMORY OF
Robert and Jill Kaczke
Roy A. Anderson
Bruce Karstadt
Donna Ludwig
Shirley Anderson
Mary and Robert Krueger
Gregory Ludwig
Christiana Stolpestad
Steven and Carol Lorentzen
Marie Svang
James C. Benson Ruth Ann Benson Harley Bergren Bruce Karstadt Christiana Stolpestad Esther Pearson Berntsen Minda Arsenault Pearson and Stephen Arsenault
Steven Tyacke Keith and Elizabeth Tyree
Per-Olov Lundstedt
Karin Maria Hellzen Hakanson
Mr. Thomas Shaw
Bruce Karstadt Ann Thorson-Walton
Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Mahan and
Martha Anderson Lyman
Her loving family and friends
Derrick and Ellie Alcock & Family
Bo Hedlund
Robert “Bob” Marsyla
Jody Arman-Jones Jean Bearden
Reverend Stewart Keith Carlson
Robin King Cooper and Mel Gray
John Schulz and Miriam Rykken
Dr. Bonnie Gray Bruce Karstadt
Margareta Crabo
Paulette Lee
Bruce Karstadt
Ron and Lyn Sawchuk
Janet Adix Theresa and Tom Dallman Nina Clark and Mike Lansing Jim and Carol Hanni Marsha Hansen Denise Karney Bruce Karstadt
Bill and Anne Tisel
Peggy Korsmo-Kennon and
Chris, Sarah, Eric, and Elizabeth
Roger W. Johnson
Morris
Diane Marsyla
Hendrick and Gretchen Vroege
Louis and Inger Pignolet
Marlene Engstrom
Eva Lancello
Bruce Karstadt
Anders and Ethel Carlegren
Dorothy ’Dot’ Delegard
Allan and Eleanor Gabrielson Karen Gabrielson
First United Methodist Church: Monticello, Florida
The American Swedish Institute
Suzan Smisek Christiana Stolpestad West End Garden Club of Cook County
Franklin and Eunice Dietrich
Thomas ‘Tom’ Moore
Kari and Bill Dietrich-Sifferle
Bruce Karstadt
Kent and Birgit Johnson
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Michael Kennon
Conrad Nelson Faye Olson Richard and Judy Sandeen Donna Pierson JoAnn and George Swanson Västergötland Society Phyllis Pladsen Karen Bartig Harlan Widholm Ann Hutchings JoAnn and George Swanson IN HONOR OF Jean Hanslin Julie Wrase Bruce Karstadt’s 30th Anniversary at ASI Rich and Cheryl Theilen Lowell Nelson’s 100th Birthday Steven and Catherine Carlson Marilyn Nelson Richard and Judy Sandeen Liz Stopka Margaret Wiita If you would like to make a gift in honor or memory of a loved one or special occasion, you can always visit ASImn.org/support or contact Eleanor Beaird, Member and Donor Services, at eleanorb@ asimn.org or (612) 870-3349 or mail Attn: ASI Development Office, American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
Karin Larson (center) and nephews (left to right) Jeff, Brad, Brian and Greg Larson at ASI’s Nelson Cultural Center groundbreaking.
REMEMBERING KARIN L. LARSON, A DEAR FRIEND TO ASI It is with fond memories and grateful hearts that we pay tribute to Karin L. Larson, who passed away April 24 at the age of 83. We remember Karin, the Larson of ASI’s Larson Hall, whose decades of generous and loving support fostered growth and creativity in our cultural programming, helped expand our campus with the Nelson Cultural Center, and most recently, graced ASI with a meaningful gift for the care and stewardship of the Turnblad Mansion and ASI collections. Karin’s grandparents emigrated from Sweden, inspiring her family’s love of their Swedish heritage. Larson Hall was named in memory and honor of Karin’s parents, Walter and Clara Larson, who she said left a legacy of love of God, family and community. Walter was a member of the ASI Male Chorus, and Clara an active chorus auxiliary member. Karin’s nephews and their families represent the third and fourth generations of Karin’s family active in ASI. Karin’s capabilities and compassion, intellect and humor, drive and spirit, made her one of the best in our community. A successful financial analyst executive, she cracked the glass ceiling, seated, as she spent most of her adult life in a wheel chair. She quietly, generously and enthusiastically supported causes and organizations dear to her in Minnesota and her home state of California. Karin cared for her heritage and community — and she inspired us. She will be fondly remembered and dearly missed.
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Nordic Happenings ASI Cloudberries On September 10, 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. the annual Nordic Music and Arts Festival is planned at Lions Park, Victoria, MN. Two stages of Scandinavian dancers and musicians will be performing throughout the day. Nordic artists, authors and craftsmen will sell their work, along with a Silent Auction. Scandinavian and American food and beverages will be on sale. A Viking Village will share tales of Viking history, sword fighting and examples of ancient craftwork. The festival concludes with the annual Lutefisk Toss. Parking and admission are free. For more information, contact Gloria Rosen at (952) 240-7523 or visit ASI Cloudberries Facebook page. ASI Male Chorus New members welcome. Rehearsals Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. There will be a St. Croix River Dinner Cruise fundraiser, September 21, 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $54.95. Congratulations to the ASI Male Chorus which is celebrating its 85th Anniversary this year. The Chorus remains an integral part of ASI celebrations, regularly performing at Midsommar and Julmarknad festivals as well as traveling to Sweden to share their talents. Contact Chuck Upcraft at (612) 371-3731 or email Ted Johnson at tdreamintl@mindspring.com for more information or visit asimalechorus.org. ASI Male Chorus Circle of Friends This group supports the ASI Male Chorus through promotion and fundraising. To volunteer or contribute contact us at ASIMCCF@gmail.com ASI Spelmanslag The ASI Spelmanslag is looking forward to resuming practices in September 2021. Since 1985, the Lag has been playing traditional Swedish fiddle music at ASI events such as Midsommar and Julmarknad, at times being called "the house band" at ASI. The Lag has also played at events including Nisswastämma, Scandia Stämma and has traveled to Sweden and hosted many Swedish fiddlers. New members welcome.
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The American Swedish Institute
Clubs & Performing Groups
Ingela Haaland and Jon-Anders Persson. ASI Spelmanslag: Love is Hard to Hide is available for purchase at the ASI Museum Store.
Visit: asispelmanslag.org or call Suzanne Walters, (651) 633-1607. Spelmanslag recordings are available at the ASI Museum Store. Friends of the Karl Oskar House Formerly the Lindstrom Historical Society, the Karl Oskar House (Nya Duvemala) in Lindstrom, MN, was spotted on a visit by Vilhelm Moberg in 1948 and incorporated into his Emigrant book series as a home of Karl Oskar and Kristina. Open typically mid-May through September for tours on Sundays, 1-4 p.m., and by appointment. Contact: Carla Norelius at neilcar@frontier.com or the Friends of the Karl Oskar House on Facebook. Lilla Spelmanslag This youth fiddle/cello group of musicians ages 8 to 18 learns traditional Swedish folk music. In 2022, we will travel to three different parts of Sweden to connect with youth folk music groups, and attend a folk music festival and a fiddle camp. For updates on rehearsals, contact Ingela at ingela_eilert@yahoo.com. For upcoming events, visit www.asispelmanslag.org and click on the “youth” link.
Scandinavian Friends We are still uncertain when we can reunite for our first luncheon after the onset of Covid 19, but hope to gather sometime this fall. We will stay in touch with members and share information as we know it. SWEA International in Minnesota: Fall starts with Räkfrossa/shrimp feast followed by several get-togethers. Our interest groups — book, film, gourmet, outdoor, downtown, mother and child — offer a variety of activities. Contact: sweaminnesota@ gmail.com or visit Minnesota.swea.org. Swedish Genealogical Society of Minnesota Visit sgsmn.org for meetings and other information. For questions, research and translation help contact sgsm1983@gmail.com.
Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag For information about rehearsals and events, contact inquiries@tcyckelharpalag.org or Cheryl Paschke at (612) 670-6356 Twin Cities Swedish Folk Dancers Our group will not be practicing at ASI until further notice. Contact: tcsfdmn@gmail.com Västergötland Society The Society will meet in the fall, on the second Saturdays of September 11, October 9 and November 13, 2021. All meetings are set for 1 p.m. in Paulson Hall at ASI. Contact: Gordon Anderson at anderson.gpagpa.gordon@gmail.com or 763-788-8532 for meeting details. Valkommen!
ASI MALE CHORUS HISTORY The American Swedish Institute Male Chorus was established in 1936, the first organization of ASI, now 85 years young. The Woman’s Auxiliary followed a year later and only recently disbanded. A Circle of Friends is now organizing. The Chorus is a comradery of friends who support each other and enjoy our weekly rehearsals. Edgar Ekloff, who taught music at Augsburg University, directed the Chorus from 1970 until 2007 and was awarded the King of Sweden’s Gold Medal in 1978. Since 2007 the Chorus has been ably led by Jeff Wressel. The Chorus is a group of volunteers with both a professional director and accompanist. Our mission is to promote and share our Swedish heritage through the Swedish choral tradition. We also represent Swedish Americans abroad with singing tours to Nordic countries, and we host choruses from there when they tour the US. As a member of the American Union of Swedish Singers the group performs at its conventions around the US. We perform concerts and sing for events at the ASI, and perform around the Twin Cities at senior facilities, civic events, and churches, as well as at Scandinavian events. Its next tour abroad will be in 2024. POSTEN
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Sweden Swedish
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Swedish Food Holidays Swedes have several unofficial holidays dedicated to food. Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Bun Day) is celebrated every year on October 4. It was instituted in 1999 by Hembakningsrådet (The Home Baking Council) to celebrate home baking. On March 25, Swedes celebrate Våffeldagen (Waffle Day), which stems from a linguistic misunderstanding. March 25 is the Christian feast day of the Annunciation — called in Vårfrudagen in Swedish. Since “Vårfrudag” sounds similar to “Våffeldag,” it’s thought that things got lost in translation. Delicious heart-shaped waffles are the result! The semla bun is a cardamom-infused, almondpaste-and whipped-cream-filled treat. It used to strictly be eaten on Fettisdagen (Fat Tuesday) as a last indulgence before Lenten fasting. Nowadays, semlor are enjoyed throughout the Easter season. On Lucia Day, December 13, Swedes eat plenty of lussekatter, or Lucia buns. Made with saffron and curled like a cat’s tale (thus the “katt” in their name), lussekatter are enjoyed in the morning with a cup of kaffe (coffee) and at night with glögg (Swedish mulled wine).
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NEWS FROM SWEDEN
Nordic: A Photographic Essay of Landscapes, Food and People
Nordic: A Photographic Essay of Landscapes, Food and People with photographs by chef/author Magnus Nilsson is an ASI produced exhibition which has been transferred to the Jamtli Foundation in Östersund, Sweden. It is showing there as part of their food theme, with support from the Barbro Osher Pro Suecia foundation. Director Olov Amelin also plans to tour the exhibition to other Swedish museums.
Vocabulary Kanelbullens Dag :: Cinnamon Bun Day Hembakningsrådet :: The Home Baking Council Fettisdagen :: Fat Tuesday glögg :: mulled wine lussekatter :: Lucia buns For pronunciation, visit The People’s Dictionary:
folkets-lexikon.csc.kth.se/folkets/folkets.en.html The American Swedish Institute
ASI Museum Store
The ASI Museum Store Now Offers Online Shopping!
Follow the ASI Museum Store on Instagram @asimuseumstore to stay up to date on the latest products. Your purchases support the education, programming and exhibitions of the American Swedish Institute.
Visit www.ASImn.org and click on ‘store’ now to see our online offerings!
New Collection from Dansk Copenhagen Dansk Copenhagen’s latest designs embrace sleek Scandinavian simplicity paired with bold geometrical forms for a look that is both refined and empowered. Hand-crafted and plated in gold, silver or rhodium.
Available mid-summer: Iittala Iittala is a world-renowned master of Finnish design, producing objects that are as timeless and beautiful as they as are essential. This new book from Phaidon documents the company’s 140-year history and growth from a small glass workshop to one of the design world’s most recognizable brands. $79.95
Organic Socks of Sweden Add a pop of playful color to your wardrobe with Organic Socks of Sweden. Designed with love in the Swedish province of Norrland, these unisex socks are made of organic combed cotton and produced according to the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS). $16.50
ASI Members Save 10% Open Thursday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (612) 870-3364
Landet Studio Soy Candles These soy wax candles are handmade in Portland with scents inspired by the landscape of the Scandinavian countryside, decorated summer houses and Swedish folk art. Available in Västkusten (Lavender), Småland (Teakwood & Mahogany), Bergslagen (Amber & Oakmoss), Åre (Mistletoe & Driftwood) and Norrland (Blue Spruce & Sandalwood). 8 oz tumblers: $24.50 / 4 oz travel tins: $15 POSTEN
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Hours
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Connect
Kindertransport — Rescuing Children on the Brink of War On view July 22 October 31, 2021required Advance admission Museum Admission $12 adults; $8 seniors (62+); $6 ages 6–18 and students with ID; FREE for children under 6 and ASI members.