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Suburban Norwegian Americans decorate Museum of Science and Industry Norway tree

Fox Valley Norwegian-Americans decorated a typical Norwegian Christmas tree at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, on Nov. 19.

The tree is among 51 trees representing 51 countries in the museum's 74th annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibit which runs through Jan. 3.

Each is decorated according the that country's culture, with a description of Christmas customs and how to say "merry Christmas" in their language.

Among 13 area residents who helped decorate the Norway tree were Frances and Roald Berg, Aurora; Ed Hatteberg and Diana Raimond, Naperville; Frank Krawczyk, Elgin; and Carol Devito, Lombard.

They are members of Sons of Norway Polar Star Lodge 5-472, a Norwegian cultural group which meets monthly at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Montgomery.

Seven other volunteers represented Sons of Norway lodges in LaGrange Park and South Holland.

Fran Berg said volunteers decorated the Norwegian tree with rosemaled ornaments, painted wood pieces; Norwegian flags; julenisse, Christmas pixies; unlit candles, heart-shaped baskets and other ornaments.

Christmas Around the World began in 1942 with a single tree decorated as a salute of solidarity to the Allies in World War II.

This year's colorful theme is inspired by the Museum's temporary exhibit - "Robot Revolution."

The 45-foot Grand Tree holds court in the rotunda, decked out with more than 30,000 twinkling colorful lights and hundreds of ornaments and bright, vibrant trimmings.

Surrounding it are 51 dazzling trees and displays beautifully decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities, offering insight into their diverse cultures and holiday traditions.

The festive forest features holiday tunes and "snow" falling every half-hour.

On the weekends and select weekdays, Holiday Stage performances by various dance and choral groups make the spirit of the season even brighter.

The holiday celebration is included in Museum entry, along with all performances. An additional ticket is required for Robot Revolution, also open through Jan. 3.

Polar Star Lodge members participated through Chicago's Norwegian National League, an umbrella organization that unites area Norwegian-American organizations with programs designed to spotlight the Norwegian cultural heritage.

At 2 p.m. on Dec. 5, the NNL will sponsor a music program around the Norway Christmas tree at the museum. Members of the Fox Valley Norwegian Choir scheduled to sing are Doris Pittman, Aurora, choir director; Ingrid Hoper, Aurora; Barb Johnson, Yorkville; Nancy Andersen, St. Charles; and Connie Kross, DeKalb. Audience members will be invited to join in a singalong. The public is invited.

The museum is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entry fees are $18, $11 for children, age 3-11, and $17 for seniors, 65 or older. Call (773) 684-1414 for information.

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