Tibbits Names Linda Ives December Volunteer of the Month
COLDWATER –The holidays proved to be an eventful time at Tibbits Opera House with several plays and a nearly sold-out performance from Siberian Solstice. The year could not have ended so well without the support from the volunteer staff including longtime supporter Linda Ives, who has been named December’s volunteer of the month.
From making food to being the hospitality greeter for the band to acting as the gift shop attendant the night of Siberian Solstice, Ives carried out multiple positions on short notice. She has been a part of Tibbits since the 1970s when she began to see different performances as a patron. In 1985, Ives turned to volunteering for the historic theatre and began to house summer actors which gave her insight on how much work they put into every performance. For seven years Ives organized ushers and assisted with hospitality for Entertainment Series events. She has also joined in on bulk mailings, program folding, and sorting for the annual auction. She has been a key volunteer and supporter of Tibbits for many years.
Ives grew up in Paw Paw where her mother took her to many plays and musical performances. She graduated from WMU in 1972 with a BA in Teaching Special Education and received an MA from St. Francis College in 1979. She got her first teaching job in Coldwater with the Branch Intermediate School District in 1973 and stayed until she retired in 2003. Currently Ives teaches Tai Chi at the Burnside Senior Center, helps at the Literacy Council, and is a member of the Coldwater Area Garden Club. She enjoys reading, biking, and all things crafting (knitting, crocheting, sewing, tatting, paper crafts and more!) in her spare time.
Her dedication to Tibbits allows her to meet new people while seeing different shows and how they come together for a great performance or event. She said, “There’s always something to learn and the staff are always so appreciative no matter what we do. Helping keep this great theatre here is a good feeling.”
In recognition for her service, Ives has been awarded a $25 Coldwater Area Chamber of Commerce debit card. The Volunteer of the Month is chosen based on hours, service, management, and any special talents or experience they may offer. The decision may depend upon a particular event or project, or for general support for the theatre and the performing arts.
Tibbits welcomes volunteers in theatre roles including ushering, working at the Ghost Light Bar, assisting in the office, sorting archival materials, decorating, and much more. If you’re interested in volunteering please contact Tirsha Odisher at Tibbits at 517-278-6029 or boxoffice@Tibbits.org. Tibbits Opera House is located at 14 S. Hanchett Street, Coldwater, MI. www.Tibbits.org.