Kjæe venner,

At our spring board meeting we discussed plans for the June 2010 Stevne to be held in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Our Thursday Tour will include a trip to Norskedalen in Coon Valley to visit the Bekkum Homestead, with typical late 1800’s buildings built by Norwegians from the area.  A lunch at the historic Norwegian Church and visits to an early Valdres cemetery are also included.  Doris and I traveled to these sites last fall where we almost were lost – it will be exciting!

Thursday evening Deb Craigmile will show slides from the 2009 Norway trip.  Friday and Saturday will feature interesting seminars and programs.

This year we are featuring South Aurdal; last year we featured Etnedal.  Odell Bjerkness, who has roots in South Aurdal, will give a seminar on this area on Saturday.  He will also have a new book available that he has recently published, titled “Images of Valdres”.  Last year he gave a seminar on his successful book, “The Prince and the Nanny.”

Blaine Hedberg from the Norwegian Genealogical Center in Madison, WI, will do a seminar and help with research on Friday morning.

The upcoming Valdres Stevne scheduled for 2011 will be in St. Cloud, MN, and in 2012 Eau Claire, WI.

We hope to see you in La Crosse participating in the activities and enjoying friends, both old and new.

Ha det bra!

                                                                            Your president,