Photograph by Susan W. Sipos Swedish dancing and music at the annual Thule Lodge MIdsommar dinner.

FALCONER — The Thule Lodge held its Swedish Midsommar meal with dancing and music at the 3C’s Falcon’s Nest restaurant in Falconer. The evening’s event was opened with a welcome from Lodge chairman Scott Axelson.

A variety of food was available to all including Swedish meatballs, potatoes, rice pudding, shrimp, cucumber salad, limpa bread and strawberry torte. Ample amounts of food was catered by the 3C’s.

The blessing prior to the meal was given by lodge chaplain Bonnie Larkin.

Following the meal, the Swedish Folk dancers, dressed in Swedish costumes, gave a performance of several different dances. Music was provided Kathy Petersen and Cheryl Ritch playing violins and Don Sandy playing his accordion. A wonderful performance was enjoyed.

After the dance performance, a brief business meeting was held by Axelson. Past lodge secretary John Sipos led all in the pledge, explaining that Leif Ericson had landed in North America in about the year 1000. Lodge secretary Jeff Crossley read the minutes of the previous meeting, and lodge treasurer Loretta Smith gave the financial report of the lodge. Social chairman and cultural leader Lynne Meyers gave a message about Swedish events. The daily award was presented to Brenda Nelson. The 23rd annual Scandinavian Folk Festival will be held on Saturday July 18th and Sunday July 19th at the Northwest Arena in Jamestown. Don Sandy gave an overview of the many events to take place at the festival.

Thule Lodge was formed 119 years ago in Jamestown to help the Swedish immigrants with housing, employment and schooling. Many of the Swedish people found employment in the many furniture factories once in Jamestown. Thule Lodge always welcomes new members. Today, Thule exists to preserve Swedish heritage through events and activities.