PHILLIPSPORT, NY — “Seventy years! We’re looking good for 70.”

The Phillipsport Community Center (PCC) commemorated its 70-year milestone in September, taking a moment to appreciate the effort of transforming the center from a derelict schoolhouse into an accessible, ADA-compliant venue with state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting and landscaped gardens.

Longtime 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 nonprofit, charitable Phillipsport Community Center Association through the tenacity of one woman, former student Anna Budd.

With the intervention of then Gov. Herbert Lehman, they were able to purchase the building for the sum of one dollar. Over the years, the building has become a community asset, a destination for music nights, events for children, garden parties, wedding receptions, memorial services, holiday gatherings, movies, poetry readings and meeting candidates—to name just a few. 

The association has lovingly preserved and maintained the historic building and grounds.

Bill Merchant, D&H Canal Historical Society museum director, spoke about the life of the D&H Canal and its impact on the growth of Phillipsport as a commercial hub during the 19th century. There is still a partial stone wall, visible between State Route 209 and Minister Flats Road, where a historical marker stands today.

Mamakating town supervisor Peter Goodman, while campaigning door-to-door, was so impressed with the PCC and its community that he wanted to be part of it and joined as a member, valuing the spirit that the PCC evokes. Town councilman Matt Mordas, Ward 3 representative, greeted the audience, 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, nonprofit 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. The people in attendance—more than 50—enjoyed the festivities.