Burke Retires as Playa Pabao Board President

Dennis Burke details his decision to resign as member and president of the board of the Centro di Bario (Community Center) Playa Pabao. He explains that he has always been interested in community center work and social clubs in the neighborhood. He recalls visiting Centro di Bario Noord, Queen’s Day activities, and Sportboys with Dera Gay as a youth, always wishing his own neighborhood had a similar center. After joining the board, serving as vice president, and eventually president, Burke led for years with love for the neighborhood. However, he decided to retire due to a perceived lack of participation from Pabao residents. He expresses concern that the center has been handed over to outsiders lacking the love for the neighborhood and character the community is known for. Burke cites decisions not benefiting actual residents, such as a manicure/pedicure course priced too low, and other initiatives misaligned with the community’s needs. He concludes that while activities are welcome, the deep love he holds for the Playa Pabao neighborhood is not shared by all current board members.