John Goodman’s speech at his graduation ceremony cemented his memorable presence as an Intern this past year. He and Sophia Pesina welcomed their potential replacement – Summer Mazhary.
FINEMASTER
George spent a lot of time creating the finemaster slides, mirroring the format and sound effects related to wanting to be a Millionaire. His questions were meant to work the opposite way – with us paying into the blue pig. Things didn’t work well despite his preparation. Vocabulary puzzlers didn’t faze many of us, so wallets mostly stayed full. However, the $10 raffle tickets prompted by the lure of John Roebke’s tour of Lake Waconia drew in $160. Lucky draws: Peter Ivy and Ken Hiller.
PRESENTATION: Dave Pokorney, West Creek Apartments (Link)
John Roebke introduced the man who did not need one – former Chaska City Manager and now a full-time community benefit – Dave Pokorney. Dave explained the multi-year path taken by a concept generated in the thinktank of Dunn Brother Coffeeshop to become West Creek Apartments, a home for the homeless. Bob Roepke and Dave became the “never-say-die” proponents of a dwelling place in Chaska that would provide a stable connection for single homeless adults (18 – 30 years old). Even with their enormous experience with the structures and processes of civic development, the concept has taken 12 years to become a reality, offering a different future for 18 people at West Creek Apartments.
In July or August, the vision that Bob and Dave convinced hundreds of others to believe in will achieve fruition. Dave reviewed some of the steps taken to gather support, funding, grants, plans, permits, contracts and partnerships. The initial role of Launch Ministries and the effect on one of its clients was presented in a video testimonial from a former homeless and “invisible” person who is now contributing as a biology teacher. Dave then gave us details about homelessness in our communities, the obstacles facing those without an address, and the civic organizations that are trying to provide pathways out of its darkness.
Dave shared details of the apartment’s location and floorplan. The land and building will be owned by the Community Asset Foundation, and case management will probably be provided through the Community Action Partnership (CAP Agency) link. Residents are obligated to work with case managers and to set goals for them to successfully integrate into a more beneficial life. There is no time limit for their residency, but with jobs and opportunities occurring, openings will naturally occur. Priorities and methodologies for obtaining an apartment will follow the procedures currently in effect for funded housing support.
Note from John Roebke: Invocations can be a faith traditional prayer, or a meditation, or inspirational verse or quote. Brief 20 – 30 seconds. Light-hearted is okay. Option: focus on our Mission of Service Above Self. Need an idea – Google Rotary Invocations. Not a personal talent? Don't wait, tell me NOW, 612-790-7067, john.roebke@live.com. I will be glad to name another. If I forgot that you told me not a talent, please forgive me. Remind me. If not a good DATE, trade with a mate.
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