Democrats on Whidbey Island had much to cheer about in the past year after winning nearly every race in the November election. This Sunday, though, the Democrats celebrate themselves.

The Whidbey Island Democratic Club is commemorating its 10th anniversary.

Members and friends will get together from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 11, at the Coupeville Recreation Center.

Club members will celebrate the past and the progress the organization has made, but they will also hold elections. A number of elected county officials are expected to make an appearance.

Only a few South Enders know that South Whidbey was the cradle of the organization, said Trudy Sundberg, vice chairwoman.

Inspiration for a club came from a number of South Enders like Fran Abel, Ed Anderson, Betty Azar, Marilyn Alexander, Diane Kendy, Marty Anamosa, Duane Fulgum, Dean Enell, Dave Anderson and others.

“I came back from a meeting and thought we really got to capture the spirit they have in South Whidbey,” Sundberg recalled.

Obviously, the experiment was fruitful. Ten years later the island-wide club has 148 active members and holds meetings, forums and teaches members how to effectively write letters, speak publicly and lobby for progressive causes.

The club has taken part in parades, hosted dinners and fundraisers and supported campaigns.

Sundberg said she is proud of the success the group has seen in recent years.

“Every nominee we campaigned for was elected. Think of John Dean, Dave Mattens, Greg Banks,” she said.

Also, club members hold a number of leadership positions in the Island County Central Committee.

When the group launched in 1997 many doubted they would last in a predominantly Republican county.

“We’re a happy, optimistic group of people,” Sundberg said. “People said it wouldn’t last. But we’re still here.”