Stitch and Gossip Orcas 98280 just celebrated its 70th anniversary this year.

They had an entry in the 4th of July Parade which received “Honorable Mention,” a display at the library set up by the current President Linda Armstrong and their October luncheon at the Orcas Hotel. The banner for the parade and luncheon was conceived and handmade by Armstrong.

These events were to celebrate and honor 70 years of friendships, projects, raising money, luncheons and community service.

The first meeting occurred on Oct. 4, 1944 and the group was called “The Victory Club.”  It was organized by Orcas Red Cross volunteers.  By 1947 with World War II over, they felt a new name was needed. Dora Cadden claimed since the ladies all stitched and gossiped, “Stitch and Gossip” would be an appropriate new name.

About half of the present-day group still “stitch” and of course never gossip You are probably more familiar with Stitch buying the wreaths for the ferry landing and the Orcas Post Office, as well as decorating the landing for Christmas which they have been doing for many years. Stitch also raises money and distributes it to people in need or to different charitable organizations on the island.

Mary Schoen is one of the oldest members in standing, having joined in 1951. The group has traditional luncheons every month except summer and offers friendship and fun to their members.