BY MAUREEN CAMERON
We would like to extend thanks to the generosity of the College of the Rockies Greenhouse, Food Forest staff and volunteers and many others in the community who deliver fresh food to add to our Daybreak meal program at TAPS. Raspberries, lettuce, zucchini and more make meal and snack preparation a treat for cook Sarah and volunteers.
It has been another busy month as each aspect of the program flourished despite the heat. Our “Roadshow” with Historical Vignettes by TAPS, the Old Posse Band and Crest View participants presented skits at the Farmers Market and Crest View Village. Thanks to our willing TAPS volunteers for joining in planning and skits. Thanks again to Gail Kitt for direction and wardrobe help, Footlighters for costumes, Luanne Armstrong for the script and research and Tammy Bradford of the Creston Museum. Thanks to Nancy Kastellin and staff of Crest View for being willing collaborators and Jen Comer of the Farmer’s Market for accommodating us. Lu-anne based the script (with some creative retelling) on real life stories and people circa 1947 from Sirdar Dance Hall to the streets and homes of Creston. Featured characters in the skit were Dorothy Armstrong, Rose Pazcuzzo, Grace Cherbo, Muriel Wilson, Congetta Pelle, and Mrs. Columbo, Dr. and Mrs. Murray, Mrs. Ryckman, Mr. and Mrs. Archibald, Herb Legg and Mr. and Mrs. Kelsey. Topics ranged from the women discussing family and transportation issues in post-war life, to Dr. Murray arguing about a parking ticket on his way to a delivery, and a tea honouring Mrs. Kelsey’s accomplishment as a world class wheat grower. Luanne Armstrong recently wrote a full article in a “Voice of Experience” column telling more of the story of this little known local celebrity as Mrs. Kelsey was honoured as Wheat Queen of the World. Between the skits, the Old Posse Band played songs they might have performed in the ’40’s at the then popular Sirdar Hall dances.
Staff comments about working at TAPS from Sarah Stonehouse: “I love the interactions I have with everyone: participants, staff, volunteers and caregivers. I look forward to coming here every day.” And Claire, who has had work experience with us in the past and is currently volunteering with the program, declares with a big grin “and I love Sarah”. Justine Bladerson, our newest staff member, is smiling ear to ear as she echoes similar sentiments. For her, it’s noticing how connected people are. “It is a caring community, and everyone notices when people are missing, or not doing well, as well as encouraging each other and acknowledging small occurrences and day to day experiences.” A volunteer was approached recently by one of the participants, taking her aside to let her know how much she appreciated being at TAPS as “it has saved her life”.
TAPS operates under the auspices of Valley Community Services. If you are considering a donation or would like to contribute to our Legacy Endowment Fund please visit www.valley.services or contact the VCS office at 250-428-5547 for more information. For volunteer opportunities or program enquiries contact 250-428-5585 or taps@valley.services. TAPS operates on a Monday to Friday program schedule at the RotaCrest Hall lower level and out in the community.