40th Celebration comes with $2-million promise

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Residents, family, staff and friends gathered at the nursing home on August 8 – exactly 40 years after the official opening of White Rapids Manor.  “It was a great celebration of the care that the nursing home has provided for decades,’’ said Board Chair Robert Amos.

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Special guests included Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Lisa Harris, who announced $2 million for renovations. The biggest issue at the nursing home is space, noted Mr. Amos, explaining an expansion to allow for more single rooms would be most welcome.

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Elinor Blizzard, Director of Nursing when White Rapids opened in 1978, spoke about how the community rallied to secure the building of the nursing home after it was announced they would lose the local hospital.  

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The band 8-Track Mind entertained for nearly two hours with their high energy while everyone enjoyed the barbecue, petting zoo and face painting. 

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“The event would not have been possible without so many dedicated volunteers and staff,’’ said Administrator Kathy Jenkins. “It was a chance to showcase the nursing home and illustrate how much our great volunteers contribute,’’ said Activity Coordinator Jenn Barclay.

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The funding announcement will be followed up by the Board of Directors. They will work with Nursing Home Services to determine the best use of the funds for the aging infrastructure and encourage a speedy timeline.