Leadership
All our events and activities are coordinated through our club president, Aleksandra Anderberg. Originally from Lund, Sweden, Aleksandra has been an active member of Skando Chicago since 2003. She came to know Skando Chicago after accidentally stumbling over a flyer at the Swedish Museum in Andersonville reading: "Skandinavisk Happy Hour".
In her own words: It was love at first sight; non-pretentious, friendly and good deals on Carlsberg. "Pa den vagen ar det" as you say in Swedish.”
History
Expert from an article featured in Nordstjernan
Around ten years ago, a few girlfriends got together and decided to start an alternative Scandinavian club in Chicago.
After placing an ad in free local weekly newspaper, the club began to meet at The Store, a pub located at Halsted and Armitage on the city's north side, for socializing with fellow Scandinavians. Skando Chicago was born. In 1997, Karl Hjerpe took on the organization's responsibilities and began actively recruiting new people. Next came Vetle Torvik, a native of Porsgrunn, Norway who came to the U.S. at age 19 and spent time living in Minnesota, Oregon, and Louisiana before settling in Chicago four years ago.
"We wanted to create a place for Scandinavians to come hang out and meet people," says Torvik at their bi-monthly pub night. "We welcome Scandinavians, Scandinavian-Americans, basically anyone who is interested in Scandinavia."
Read the full article here (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the costs associated with joining?
None.
Do I have to be Scandinavian to become part of the group?
Absolutely not. While the club is primarily for Scandinavian expats and Americans of Scandinavian heritage, we are open to anyone with an interest in Scandinavia or Scandinavian culture.
Do I have to be blonde?
No, but don't let us stop you.
How do I go about attending a SkandoChicago event?
Feel free to invite yourself to any of our events listed on this website. Even if you don't know anyone, come anyway. This is a very friendly group and we'll make sure you feel at home.
What happened to "Ask Sven"?
He moved to Japan.
