Norway, a Strong Trading Partner of the United States
Ever since Norway’s independence in 1905, the relations between Norway and the United States have created a wealth of economic opportunities for both countries. A report prepared by the Norwegian Embassy shows that trade with and investments from Norway support almost half a million jobs across the United States.
Longyearbyen Fast Facts
Did you know that the world’s northernmost town is in Norway? Perched high above the Arctic Circle on Spitsbergen island lies the polar village of Longyearbyen. It’s inhabited by approximately 2,000 residents from 50 countries.
Ways to Practice Norsk
Snakker du litt norsk? If you are looking to learn the basics of Norwegian, Sons of Norway’s online language lessons get you going with 37 installments, including how to pronounce a few julesanger (Christmas carols - Lesson 26) and how to decipher a Norwegian cake recipe (Lesson 28).
Norway’s Julehefte Tradition
Classic Norwegian Christmas traditions include decorating the tree, baking cookies, visiting family—and sitting by the fire with a big stack of comic books. For two centuries, Norway has had a tradition of releasing julehefter, or Christmas booklets, in late November.
Norwegian Folk Music in Pop Music
Throughout the last two centuries, Norwegians have taken great pride in their heritage. In fact, Norway has created a patriotic identity that encompasses its values, customs and traditions. However, this has not always been the case; leading up to the 19th century, there was much discontent regarding Norway’s independence.
Sámi Culture Represented in Frozen 2
After a debate on social media about how the Sámi culture was represented in the 2013 box office hit movie “Frozen,” Disney took the time to address the audience’s concerns and looked to the experts. The animators collaborated with a group of Sámi people to get their input on the film.
5 Norwegian Christmas Traditions
It’s Christmastime! Are you looking for some Scandinavian-inspired food gifts make for loved ones on your list? Check out the December issue of Viking magazine, which features sweet treats from Brontë Aurell.
Fixed Annuities: A Stable Option for Retirement
Perhaps you are saving for retirement, or maybe you have already hit your goal for retirement savings. Either way, if you are a conservative investor who is wary of market fluctuations, but you still want to build assets for the future, then a fixed annuity may be a good option for you.
It’s Good to Have Friends—the Norwegian-American Security Relationship
If you were to google “U.S. military and Norway,” the top video result would be footage of very cold and wet U.S. Marines struggling to clamber out of a hole in the ice on a frozen lake. It can be entertaining. But more important, it is an example of the excellent Norwegian–American security relationship and the close partnership between democracies on both sides of the North Atlantic.
Charming Christmas Markets
‘Tis the season for merriment—and Christmas markets! We spread some yuletide cheer in the December issue of Viking by sharing some julemarkeder worth checking out this holiday season in Norway.
Seeking Accounting Manager
We are looking for an Accounting Department member to drive, track and evaluate day-to-day activities for Sons of Norway. This position will oversee the financial reporting cycle for the foundation and play a key role in the financial reporting cycle for the life insurance company.
20 Fun Facts About Canada
The second largest country in the world by area, Canada is home to more than 2,000 Sons of Norway members. Its unique combination of natural beauty and unusual history makes it a truly magical place. These illuminating facts about Canada will make you see the country in a whole new way.
Norway Launches Digital Driving Licenses
In October, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) launched an app to replace traditional driver’s licenses. The app, Førerkort (or Driving License), allows users to display their ID digitally. Residents of Norway who already have a valid Norwegian license can simply download the app and digitally display their license on their smart phone.
Natural Disaster in Norway Causes a Big Sigh of Relief
For over five years, residents of the Rauma Valley in Norway have nervously awaited the collapse of an unstable section of mountain known as Veslemannen (Little Man). On the evening of September 5, their nightmare turned into a happy dream come true.
American College of Norway Offers Students a Taste of Both Worlds
At American College of Norway, students from the United States and Norway take part in a cross-cultural exchange designed to help both groups grow and achieve their educational goals.
Norway’s First Biosphere Reserve
Encompassing the coastal landscape between Bergen and Sognefjorden, Nordhordland became Norway’s first biosphere reserve earlier this year. Read about it in the November issue of Viking. Here, we highlight more fun facts about Nordhordland.
Good News: Membership Dues Now Included in Some Insurance Products
We know the passion you have for your local lodge and for your family, which is why we have upgraded our Guaranteed Issue and Simplified Issue Whole Life products to include your future membership dues.
The Arctic–A Frozen Region Warms Up
This November, millions of families will visit an Arctic fairytale land when Disney’s “Frozen 2” opens in movie theaters across the United States. With its snow-covered mountains, fjords, trolls and reindeer, the movie will surely remind many Norwegian-Americans of their ancestral homeland.
Help Us Set the Record for Most Nordic Sweaters Worn in One Room!
Come wearing your favorite Nordic sweater and witness history being [...]
The Wonderful World of Nordic Books
Are you looking for some new books to read this fall and winter? Check out the November issue of Viking magazine, which features 15 books by Scandinavian authors to cozy up with this season. Here are three more recommendations.
Outstanding Line-up for the 2019 Nordic American Thanksgiving Breakfast
Purchase your tickets to the 35th annual Nordic American Thanksgiving Breakfast before it’s too late! Ticket sales end Wednesday, November 13.
Norway’s Native Dogs
Do you know what dog breeds are most popular in Norway? Check out page 9 in the October issue of Viking magazine. Read on for more about Norway’s native dog breeds.
An interview with Linda Pederson
Fraternal Director Linda Pederson recently left Sons of Norway to move back to her hometown, Ålesund. Here’s a look back at her time with Sons of Norway, and what she’s up to now. How many years did you work with Sons of Norway and in which roles?
Celebrate Our 125th Anniversary With Music From Norway’s Top Composer
As part of the celebration for our upcoming 125th Anniversary in 2020, Sons of Norway has commissioned a musical work from renowned Norwegian composer Kim Andre Arneson. Just in time for Christmas, this new work will have its world premiere in a series...
Bridging the Gap Between Retirement and Social Security
Most people approaching retirement know that delaying Social Security can maximize their retirement income by increasing the size of their payments. Up to a point, the longer you wait the more money you get.