How many years have you been an innkeeper?
Hard to believe it’s been so long, but I have been an innkeeper for 13 years now!
What is your favorite part about our community/Galena?
My favorite part of Galena and this community, is that there is always something going on here, and everyone is anxious to pitch in and help make Galena’s event’s the best they can be, so that visitors are already making plans to revisit that event again, or return to experience another awesome event. We are all happy to work together and get involved to help make our community a better place to live and work.
Favorite event in Galena or way to participate and give back?
I think my favorite event is Oktoberfest, because it is a family orientated, family friendly event for both visitors and locals. The wiener dog races are a hoot! The Galena Lions Club sponsors this event, and I am proud to be a part of this organization, because we happily give back to the community with funds raised in so many ways. Another project I am proud to be a part of is Quilts of Valor. We have the opportunity to honor and thank our Jo Daviess Vets with handmade quilts, and we wrap each Vet in a hug with his or her new quilt.
What fun things can your guests expect when they stay at Hellman?
Along with myself and guests making new friends at the Hellman Guest House, indulging in the bottomless cookie jar is fun for all! Very popular! A lot of guests have fun on the large front porch that overlooks the scenic Jo Daviess country side and the downtown area. Gotta be here early to claim your spot on the swing. If you are lucky enough to be here for the 4th of July, we have a porch picnic, as we all have a bird’s eye view of the Galena fireworks. And if you are a storm watcher – the porch is the best place to see unobstructed lightning.
We have a very unique property, we are almost the highest point in Galena, which commands awesome views for miles around. We have a man made (actually Rita made) waterfall in the back yard that has the relaxing sound of flowing water, as well as the claw-foot bathtub water feature on the south side of the house. We are walkable to town, so there is not the hassle of dealing with parking.