Rufus L. Stewart Park Officially Renamed

 

McDonough City Councilman Rufus Stewart addresses the large number of well wishers gathered to celebrate the official renaming of Simpson Street Park to Rufus L. Stewart Park in recognition of his dedication and commitment to the youth in District I   in making sure they have a safe place to enjoy outdoor recreation.

It was a balmy evening at Rufus L. Stewart Park, formerly Simpson Street Park, in McDonough on Monday, October 6th.  The lonesome whistle from a train in the distance greeted a large crowd of family, friends, City Council members, and several young men from the immediate community who felt compelled to stop a game of basketball on the park’s brand new outdoor basketball court to join those gathering under the large pavilion to honor a well-known community leader.

The total focus of the evening was on one man, a man who loves to serve, as the activities got underway.  Those in attendance joined in celebrating as the name of this lovely park officially changed from that of the street along which it runs to a living, growing legacy bearing the name of and honoring a true servant of the people, District I McDonough City Councilman Rufus L. Stewart.  This diminutive park is a well manicured green space complete with basketball courts, a tennis court, two covered pavilions with picnic tables, a large children’s play area encompassing swings, slides, a structure for climbing, and several signs denoting the park’s official new name.

Mayor Pro Tem Wayne Smith, emcee for the evening in the place of Mayor Billy Copeland who could not be present, expressed his appreciation for Councilman Stewart and his many accomplishments.  He was joined in comment by fellow Council members Monta Brown, Sandra Vincent and Gail Notti as each came to the podium to express his or her congratulations, and some even shared a few stories about their fellow Council member.  Former McDonough Mayor Richard Craig joined in public comment expressing his appreciation and respect for his long time friend, and Minister Montez Head, along with several members of the New Harvest Temple Christian Center, presented a plaque to the evening’s honoree for his dedication and hard work within the community.

Councilman Stewart noted that he lets his efforts and accomplishments in District I do his talking.  “I don’t say much, but out here is where I do my talking in the form of actions, and I love these children gathered here this evening,” stated the man of the hour.  He added, “I am proud to be your representative on the City Council and to work for you.”  This self proclaimed man of few words has faithfully served his constituents in the same capacity for the past eighteen years and looks forward to even more years of community service as their Councilman.

The evening’s celebration came to an end as the duties of a Monday night Council meeting loomed ahead and called each of the members back to reality and the serious responsibilities that lay ahead for the remainder of the evening.