FALCONER — The Thule Lodge of Jamestown is the Swedish organization formed 112 years ago to help the Swedish immigrants settle in the U.S. Today, the organization serves to preserve the Swedish heritage through events and activities. The Swedish organization serves all of Chautauqua County. Thule Lodge is a part of the international Swedish organization called Vasa, and the New York District number 4.

The second most celebrated holiday in Sweden, next to Christmas, is the beginning of summer, known as “Midsommer.” During this time in June, there are celebrations and many kinds of foods served. The Maypole, a large pole decorated with greens and fresh flowers, is always used in a ceremony with much music and dancing. In Sweden, there is almost 24 hours of daylight during this time of the year. Thule Lodge cultural leader Mary Ann Eva Ingrao told of the many activities in Sweden during this season. She also asked some questions to the members such as what kinds of foods are served and what is not. Lutefisk she said is not served as that is a Christmas meal. The annual Scandinavian Folk Festival will be held at the Jamestown Community College during July 19 to 21, and features activities of music, dancing, Swedish foods and the Maypole. Membership chairman Bernice Veights will have a display of Thule history notebooks, and other artifacts along with lodge applications. All are welcome to attend.

At the recent meeting, lodge chairman Tom Eckberg welcomed all to the meeting. The opening invocation was given by lodge chaplain Diane K. Shaw. Historian and secretary John Sipos led all in the Pledge of Allegiance, and gave the roll call of officers. Sipos also read the minutes of the previous meeting and gave a historical report. Vice chairman Susan W. Sipos had the Swedish regalia for the officers to wear during the meeting, and said that all officers were at their locations. Treasurer Loretta Smith read the financial report of the lodge. Mrs. Smith also reported that in August at the meeting, a chicken barbecue will be held for Thule Lodge members and guests, and this will catered by the 3-C’s. This will also be the annual membership drive for the year 2020. Reservation cards will be sent to the members.

During the meeting, a time of remembrance was held for those members who recently died. Following the meeting, refreshments of cheeses, sausages, bread and cookies were provided by the 3-C’s to celebrate the Midsommer. The next meeting will be held at the Falcon’s Nest on Thursday, July 25 at 7 p.m. Members are encouraged to attend, and new members are always welcome.