Lodge History - Suncoast 562
The infamous Suncoast Lodge #562 all started over a quarter of a century ago by a big blonde Viking from the Sarasota lodge. His name was Roger Sean; he embarked upon a mission to start a new Sons of Norway Lodge in the Clearwater area.
On January 15th, 1977 we held our first meeting and on March 5, 1977 we were named Suncoast Lodge #562. Our name may have been chosen due to the location, “sunny coast of Florida” but many have said later it is because our lodge is full of sunshine. We are known to create at least a laugh or two at every event and yes we are full of sunshine. Harry Sumstad was installed as the first president of our lodge. Editor, Ray Fhyrie, published our first Suncoast Newsletter in May 1977 and currently Dean Brown continues our lodge newsletter with important news with his delightful witty humor that will put a smile on anyone’s face.
Our lodge has always been very active and works very hard on bringing enjoyable events, crafts and culture to our communities and members. As time passes, we evolve with new ideas and new things to do. We always seem to amaze our guests with our creativity and determination to keep our lodge as one of most interesting and active lodges that continually have fun.
Our singing group, “De Glade Norske Singers” was first introduced in 1977. We entertained at many events such as dedication of SPIFFS building at the St. Petersburg Pier, SPIFFS Folk Fair event at Bayfront Center, opening ceremony at the Norwegian pavilion, EPCOT Center and many more. As most Norwegians, we enjoy music.
In 1982, our new Viking Boat “Solkyst” was first launched at Philippe Park. The “Solkyst” has always been very active and has won many trophies. It is known that when our boat is seen coming towards the boat ramp to be launched for another race, the opponents will shake with fear. Well, maybe not shake, but they know to watch out – because WE ARE GOOD. When you meet the crew, they will have many exciting and interesting sea stories to tell.
Every year, since 1983, we hold a Regatta to celebrate Syttende Mai. We race our Viking boat against other lodges vessels, we dance, we play and we have a lot of fun while participating in the Norwegian cultural activities. Our event is attended by many members from other lodges as well as community guests. With our annual Viking Feast we enjoy dressing up and playing the part of a real Viking. Christmas is a very important holiday for Norwegians as well and we again celebrate with the usual Norwegian food, songs and special visit from the Jule Nissen.
We are also very active in community services such as quarterly adopt-a-mile highway clean-up with a hearty and fun breakfast afterwards; collections for the needy such as local food pantries, toys for children at Christmas time and The Haven House (home for abused women & children) to mention just a few.
Sport activities that our lodge have participated in includes rowing, bowling, golf, badminton and even rolling pin throw which one of our (female) member have won. We are always looking for more exciting adventures to pursue.
We have several expert craftspersons in our lodge. They provide lessons, demonstrations and products for our members to enjoy. The skills currently active in our lodge include woodworking, weaving and rosmaling. We encourage Norwegian food, traditions and crafts as much as possible to maintain the knowledge and awareness of our heritage.
We received our first prestigious “Lodge of the Year” Award in 1980 at the District Convention. The honor was awarded to us several times, thereafter. This is the lodge to be a member in to make many new and good friends, continue Norwegian culture and best of to have a lot of fun. There is so much more going on in our lodge and we are always seeking enthusiastic new members to join us. We like to keep new ideas coming and maintain the energy of our lodge. If you have a Norwegian or Scandinavian background and you are interested to join contact us at www.suncoastlodge.com
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