I am originally from Fort Erie, but moved away for 30 years. I always knew I would retire in Niagara because of the beauty and pace of life that can’t be beat.
Q. What inspired you to become a guide?
I'm a retired healthcare worker and one of my jobs was to tour our donors through the hospitals and show them how their gift made a positive impact in our community. It was then, that I decided to be a tour guide in Niagara Falls when I retired, and to share the beauty and stories of such a magnificent area.
Q. What do you love most about Niagara Falls?
The beauty of the falls never ceases to amaze me. There are spectacular floral displays every season, and you can meet people from all over the world. Then, stop and watch the water constantly flowing over the falls, hear the roar of the power of the water and know, because of that, and the great minds of people like Nicola Tesla, we have electricity in our homes and businesses in North America.
Q. What's your favorite story to tell on tour?
Annie Taylor is one of my favorite stories because in 1901 a brave lady, who needed to make money, made a terrifying decision to be the first woman to go over the falls in a barrel. Her grit and determination are inspiring and as much as I would never do something like that, I admire Annie for taking a chance!
Q. What's one of your favorite memories from a tour?
One time I was touring guests in the Power Station. We walked the 2,200 foot tunnel and I heard one of my guests gasp as she walked onto the Power Station platform. I watched her as she was looking up at the falls in awe and it was exciting to see her reaction!
I volunteer at two of our hospital’s gift shops where proceeds benefit the hospital. It’s nice to give my time and help make a difference with my volunteer work.
I love my Kindle and love to read.
My husband and I were on one of the cruise ships in the news during the pandemic. Lucky for us, no one on our ship was sick and we made lifelong friendships.
Q: Best time of year to enjoy Niagara Falls?
Fall is my favorite time of year to enjoy Niagara Falls, but every season has beauty to behold because of the floral displays and the way Mother Nature shows herself.
Q: What do you tell your visiting friends to see in Niagara Falls?
The first place I tell friends to visit is the White Water Walk in Niagara Falls, so they can see up close the power of Class 6 Rapids, the most dangerous in the world. The drive along the Niagara River, either to Fort Erie or Niagara on the Lake is a beautiful scenic drive. There are cycling wine tours in Niagara on the Lake. Lastly, the Welland Canal that connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario is spectacular and very interesting to see the locks and the ships climb the mountain!
Q: What are some unmissable foods and drinks?
I recommend trying local wine and beer, ice wine, maple syrup (of course), poutine, and BBQ ribs.