Kent Driscoll
Northern News Services

Cambridge Bay (Nov 07/05) - If you like listening to the piano at the Anglican church in Cambridge Bay, you can thank Susie Taptoona. She has been providing piano for the Inuinnaqtun service since 1996.

She says that the hymns "are really well translated, but "What a Friend we Have in Jesus" comes across better in Inuinnaqtun than in English.

"It is a song I really like," added Taptoona.

She has been playing the piano since 1985. The 48-year-old been living in Cambridge Bay since Nov. 11, 1994.

That date doesn't just mean Remembrance Day for Taptoona. Aside from being the anniversary of her move to Cambridge Bay, it is also the birthday of her grandson Dustin.

She started working at the post office in Cambridge Bay in June this year, and likes the job.

"I enjoy the people, everyone is really friendly. Plus, I get two hours for lunch," said Taptoona.

During her extended lunch break, she usually goes home to have lunch with her husband Kitik.

The two are quickly becoming empty-nesters. Daughter Jennifer Greenley is in Yellowknife, son Gregory Sim is in Holman and her other son Jorgen has plans to move soon as well.

She was born on Reid Island and her family moved to Holman in 1963. She was a little too young for residential school.

"I was one of the lucky ones. I never got taken away."

When she isn't playing piano or enjoying long lunches, she plays "friendly poker" or gin rummy with her friends.

Taptoona isn't shy about her prowess at gin rummy. When asked if she is a good player, she answers confidently.

"Yes, I am."