Mr. Speaker, located in the heart of the Polish community in my riding, on March 14, 1979 Copernicus Lodge opened its doors as a retirement home with 100 self-care apartments. Within four years phase two was built.
Now 20 years later, Copernicus Lodge is much more than a retirement residence, it is a home. It is a place of comfort, friends and familiarity for both the residents and their families.
Copernicus Lodge is a place where the self-worth, self-esteem and the dignity of the individual is maintained at the highest level. Meeting the physical, social, medical and spiritual needs of its residents is its most important priority.
On Sunday, October 24 the residents, their families, the staff, volunteers and the board of directors of the Copernicus Lodge will celebrate 20 years of caring and serving our community.
I commend and applaud Copernicus Lodge on its exemplary care. I wish it continued success with its new phase in the future.