2024 Newsletters

Proposed monthly meetings for January through June are scheduled for Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. (Jan, Feb, March) and Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. (April, May, June), with locations in Spring Grove except for April in Lanesboro. The Lodge is planning to co-sponsor the Taste of Norway event for Syttende Mai and potentially host a Hotdish Contest at Uff Da Fest, while the December Christmas party date is still undecided.

The March 9 meeting features David Engen discussing his experience on "Alt for Norge." An April 4 meeting with Heimbygde Lodge is planned, likely involving a carpool. Additionally, a bus trip is being considered for the April 23 Norway House event during Spring Grove Day.

The Sons of Norway Valheim Lodge is preparing for Syttende Mai celebrations over the weekend of May 17-19, featuring events including a Children's Parade (Barnetoget) on Friday, a Bake Sale and Parade on Saturday morning, and a Taste of Norway event in the evening. The Lodge also announced membership benefits, including access to dedicated life insurance professionals, and reminded members about the March meeting featuring speaker David Engen.

The Bake Sale during Syttende Mai was a huge success, raising over $1,000, and the parade boat ride was enjoyed by many, with thanks to Audrey Almo for the accordion music and Jim & Karen Gray for pulling the boat. The elementary students participated in the Barnetoget, receiving treats at Viking Memorial Park, thanks to volunteers including Bill Fried, Audrey Almo, Gretchen Anderson, and Nora Beckjord. Upcoming events include the July meeting in La Crescent featuring Kevin Doely (a ventriloquist) and a potluck dinner, with a carpool option available.

Valheim Lodge celebrated receiving Gold Merit Certificates at the District 1 convention in August and was recognized as the 2023 Family Lodge of the Year (Small Lodge). Upcoming meetings feature woodcarving and Norwegian-themed programs by Rebecca Hanna and Miranda Moen in September and October, both featuring potluck meals. The lodge is also hosting events at the Uff Da Fest, including a Kaffe Mat coffee and Norwegian treats on October 4th and a Hot Dish Contest on October 6th.

The November monthly meeting featuring Dale Goodman on the Restoration will be held on November 9th at Giants of the Earth Heritage Center. The December monthly meeting, which is the Annual Sons of Norway event, will take place on December 14th at the same location. The lodge is also hosting a Christmas party on December 13th at Giants of the Earth Heritage Center.