Gloria Kates on the Revival of Poplas Quarters Recreation Center

In 1980 the  Poplas Quarters Recreational Center vision of the citizens Mayor CP Verger, and City Council members Michael Applewhite, District C: William Bailey, Jr. District A: WC "Bill" Godwin District D: Michael Graham at Large: J.E. "Big John" Magee District E: Jay J. Piccinati at large: Michael Richmond District B was brought to life when an ordinance for a federal Community Development Block Grant was approved by the council for the project. At the helm of the project was Elmelda Peters Hellman, Director of Community of Development Block Grant # B73 DN22 0146.in Bogalusa it's many committee members, Architects Knights and Koonce and Associates and General Contractor: W. Hayward Creel shaped it's inception. 

Also historically reflected is that the Poplas Quarters Recreational Center was initially under the watchful eye and preserved by various members of the community such as District A Councilman William Bailey, Jr, Director Paul Kates, and angels of the House Rev. Charles Levias of Levias Temple and up to May 2016, Rev. Douglas Williams of New  Dimensions Fellowship.

 

To date under the term of Councilwoman Kates, it has been over a years' work of research, planning,  networking, and long hours  to accomplish this goal of 100% recreational activity at the Poplas Quarters Recreational Center. "I give God the Glory for his hedge of protection from obstacles thrown in the path. No weapon formed prospered and fervent prayers are continued to be requested."

 

The city of Bogalusa Home Rule Charter states in Section 1-03. - Form of government. "The plan of government provided by this home rule charter shall be known as the "mayor-council" form of government. It shall consist of an elected council that shall constitute the legislative branch of the government and an elected mayor who shall be the chief executive officer and head of the executive branch."
Note: Legislative Branch: the branch of the government that writes, debates,  and passes law (Ordinance, resolutions, etc...)
This factor has been exemplified significantly and in which I, Councilwoman Kates would like to thank Bogalusa City Council president Tamera Smith for honoring my request in introducing the ordinance and Council at large Doug Richie for motioning its acceptance and Councilman Scott Ard for seconding the motion. Also the support in vote by Honorable Ard, Drummond, Ritchie, and Smith.  

 

Also thanks to the executive branch support of Mayor Wendy Perrette, Administrative support of Parks Director Landon Tims , and the professional and wise expertise of the city council's long termed confirmed attorney Dale Branch.

My, (Councilwoman Kates) sincere and in-dept congratulations to the officers of the District A Neighborhood Association in its endeavors to build a strong and successful program  for all of our youth. At the Poplas Quarters Recreational Center. And that the community continue to  joins in to support this  much needed mission. I, Councilwoman Kates believe it is a win- win situation not only for Poplas area but for the entire community in and out of the  city of Bogalusa.