Author: Katrín Níelsdóttir

For generations of Western Icelanders, vínarterta has been far more than a cake. Its delicate layers, spiced prune filling, and unmistakable flavour evoke memories of Christmas gatherings, family kitchens, and the grandmothers and mothers who prepared it for special occasions.

For Arden Jackson, an Ontario-based entrepreneur with deep roots in Manitoba’s Icelandic community, vínarterta has become both a passion and an unexpected career.

“I don’t think I have a bakery,” she says. “It’s an accidental business. Connecting with Icelandic culture.” Instead, she describes her work as an ongoing adventure. “I follow the cake. The cake takes me on adventures and always has.”

Author: Katrín Níelsdóttir

Stefan Jonasson began his working life delivering newspapers. At nine, he was a paperboy for the Star Weekly, later taking on a Winnipeg Free Press route that he kept until he was 15.

Decades later, standing before an audience with a copy of Lögberg-Heimskringla in his hand, he recognized the humour in coming full circle.

“More than four decades later, I’m back to selling papers,” he wrote alongside a photograph from a community event in 2016.

Now, after 12 years as editor, Stefan is stepping away from the deadlines. The stories, however, are another matter.

Asked how retirement was treating him, he answered simply: “I haven’t noticed it yet.”

Author: Gerrit Marks 

I actually like Keflavík. I say this because in my discussions with Icelanders and others, I come away feeling that they consider the little airport town as nothing more than a jumping-off point to see the rest of Iceland. There’s no reason for this. Keflavík has the charm of tidy neighborhoods and walking paths—even a Frisbee golf course. And a wonderful library where many locals meet to discuss events of the day. Unfortunately, the little cafe that was once a gathering place to meet and chat while enjoying a sandwich and soup is no longer a part of the library. No matter, there are many places along the main street to stop and have a bite to eat and get caught up.