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Roar Moe’s presentation to the Nordmann’s Forbundet in Decorah, Iowa, was inspiring. In lovely images and a very comfortable conversational style, he conveyed his passion for preserving important skills and traditional lifeways of coastal Norway that are rapidly disappearing. Moe has hit upon something very important. History and tradition have much to teach us about working with our environment rather than against it. Moe is an advocate for the cause of self-reliance and low environmental impact in an era that entices us all to become dependent upon the latest technology and entrapped by cycles of endless consumerism. What he is doing -- and what he has to tell us about it – may be very significant for our own survival and for the welfare of the unique environments in which we all live.
- Director of Development, Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum Decorah Iowa
|  |  |  | | 1 | Roar has a great program going in Norway, and I can see connections between his ideas and work, to Minnesota history, and today's life in general.
| What made Roar Moe's presentation so fascinating was that, as a young man, he has committed himself to learning what made the ancestors who came before him tough, strong, and resilient. He is the embodiment of what we could lose, if there were not people like him; like many of our ancestors; like what we wish, and need, to be | The audio visual was very well done--nice, clear, large-enough photos that showcased Norway's coastal scenery very well and the work of Roar and the boats. | | Moe's presentation of his work on Litle Færøy reminded us that traditions are like plants -- they need to be regularly watered, tended and nourished, or they'll die. Great work that you're doing, Roar, and a great presentation! Keep it up, and I hope you can stay longer next time, so that you can make presentations to my students as well.
Mange takk. -Professor of Norwegian Folk Art, Luther College, Decorah, Iowa
| It was great to see how Norway has changed - is changing - within the context of prior history, as part of Europe, in terms of technology, etc. and how this gentleman (and his colleagues) have recognized how change needs to be balanced with the preservation of historical events in order to know where we came from, how not to make the same mistakes others have in the past, and to honor the past.
| I very much enjoyed the presentations about the culture and the realization of a dream.
Thanks again for a delightful program! As you could tell, Roar made a big hit. I don't remember when I've enjoyed a program more. Good luck with the rest of the tour -- and then I hope you get a long time to relax
-Professor of Norwegian, Director of Scandinavian Studies, Luther College, Decorah, IA, St. Olav Medal, honor conferred by His Majesty King Harald V, King of Norway, October 11, 2004
| | I would like to see more presentations like this one where speakers from countries around the world talk about changes in their societies with the globalization of the world in general. | Roar had great energy and passion for the topic. I appreciated his gesturing and vivid facial expressions. Even his voice tones indicated his excitement in talking with us. | Who says Norwegians don't have a sense of humor! |
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