Holmesburg Recreation Center, at Rhawn and Ditman streets, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary.
The day included vendors, grilled Dietz & Watson hot dogs, face painting and a performance by the Star Players.
City Councilman Mike Driscoll, state Sen. Joe Picozzi and state Reps. Pat Gallagher and Joe Hohenstein presented citations honoring the rec center and its leader, Bill Arthur, who also directs the Star Players and oversees 13 other programs.
Driscoll also honored Beth Perkowski, manager of the city Department of Parks and Recreation’s District 2, and Arthur thanked her for her support of the group.
Arthur presented neighbor Ken Allen with a framed certificate for keeping the area clean.
Also in attendance were Tara Gontek, a member of the Star Players and president of the Holmesburg Civic Association, which meets at the rec center; Matt Mullen, president of the rec center advisory council; and Fran Walker, Holmesburg’s former rec leader.
The Star Players have been in existence for 13 years and are rehearsing for three upcoming performances of their 26th show, the musical Mary Poppins. They entertained the crowd with a rendition of Jolly Holiday.
“The Star Players is a family,” Arthur said.
The group will perform Mary Poppins from Oct. 10-12 at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Group rates are available. Tickets are available on Venmo @TheStarplayers or at Holmesburg Recreation Center. The group is accepting new members.
For more information on the show or other programs at Holmesburg Recreation Center, call Arthur at 215-685-8714. ••
