From the Niagara Falls Review:
Going from polishing jelly beans to controlling a boat with celebrities like the late Princess of Wales and Wayne Newton on board would be quite the contrast for most individuals.
But for Richard Schuyler, who has been an employee with The Maid of the Mist Steamboat Company Ltd. for more than 30 years, it all comes in stride.
Born in Fort Erie, the 65 year old has been a captain with the local company since 1989.
He has seen a little bit of everything while manning the lines, including kayaks, jet skis, barrels, as well as being around when various daredevils – including Dave Munday (1985 and 1993) and Steven Trotter (1985 and 1995) – made their famed leaps over the world-famous falls.
Less thrilling, but equally satisfying, Schuyler captained boats that took Regis Philbin, Ernie Ford and William Shatner for up-close cruises of Niagara Falls.
But after 32 years with one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America, Schuyler, known by staff as having a friendly personality, is retiring.