The Phillipsport Community Center looks good for 70. On Sunday, September 27, the center (657 Red Hill Rd, Phillipsport) hosted a celebration of their anniversary, seven decades since the center's transformation from a derelict schoolhouse to an accessible, state-of-the-art venue.

Long-time member and PCC Historian Jack Weiser narrated the story of the center's "birth," recounting how neighbors, unhappy with the shuttered schoolhouse as a result of the centralization of the Ellenville School District, formed the non-profit, charitable Phillipsport Community Center Association, helmed by former student Anna Budd.

With the intervention of then Governor Lehman, the association was able to purchase the building for the sum of one dollar. It has since become a community asset, a destination for music nights, events for children, garden parties, wedding receptions, memorial services, holiday gatherings, movies, poetry readings and 'meet the candidates' events, to name just a few. Throughout the years, the association has lovingly preserved and maintained the historic building and grounds.

Bill Merchant, Museum Director of the D&H Canal Historical Society, gave some Phillipsport history at the event, taking members back to the days of the D&H Canal. It turned the hamlet into a commercial hub during the 19th century, a history PCC is committed to honoring. There is still a partial stone canal wall, visible between State Route 209 and Minister Flats Road, where a historical marker stands today.

Also in attendance was Mamakating Town Supervisor Peter Goodman, who, while campaigning door-to-door, was so impressed with the PCC and its community embrace that he wanted to be part of it and joined as a member. Town Councilman Matt Mordas, Ward 3 representative, greeted the audience as well, commending the mission of the PCC. He has been an active member for many years.

New York State Assemblywoman Paula Kay presented a handsome framed proclamation honoring the "all-volunteer, non-profit offering services throughout the rural areas of southeastern Sullivan County...and dedicated to supporting underserved residents and funding other organizations that seek to do the same."

The event was catered by Doreen Stedner, owner of the former Sammy Brown's Walkaway restaurant in Ellenville. Desserts were homemade by the membership. An anniversary cake topped with a buttercream photo of the PCC was created by neighbor Gabby Totten. Live music was provided by Debbie Fisher and Paul Kean. More than fifty people in attendance enjoyed the festivities.